The Blue Devil Report from Fork Union Military Academy's Athletic Department is your source for weekly updates on the Fork Union Blue Devils. Here's the latest from @FUMAathletics.
Want to view past issues of the Blue Devil Report? Find them all on our website.
Contents:
- The Blue Devil Roundup: An Alumni Spotlight on Ashley Shepard
- FUMA Athletics Recap
- Feature Stories: Junior Prep Baseball, Track & Field
- Up Next in FUMA Athletics
- Fork Union Announces Summer Camps
- Fork Union PG Basketball Sign Six to College Programs Following Record-Setting Season
The Blue Devil Roundup: An Alumni Spotlight on Ashley Sheppard
By: Kenneth Gazer (pen name for Gabriel Green, Class of 2019)
The Blue Devil Roundup is a series of interviews featuring Fork Union Military Academy alumni who have journeyed through college and into successful careers. These interviews offer a glimpse into their paths, destinations, and how Fork Union played a role in their success.
Our first spotlight shines on Class of 1989 alumnus and former NFL professional Ashley Sheppard.
From Greenville to Clemson (with a Detour)
Hailing from a military family in Greenville, North Carolina, Ashley Sheppard was no stranger to structure and discipline. Two of his brothers served, one in the Army and the other in the Marines. Football was his passion, and after playing all four years at North Pitt High School (where he amassed 188 tackles as a senior linebacker and scored nine touchdowns as a tight end), he committed to Clemson University to play linebacker.
However, life threw a curveball. Standardized test scores were becoming increasingly important for college athletes, and Sheppard's SAT scores presented a hurdle. Clemson offered him a solution: attend Fork Union Military Academy for a postgraduate year to improve his academic standing.
Fork Union: A Blessing in Disguise
While some might see this as a setback, Sheppard, with his ROTC background, embraced the familiar structure of Fork Union. "The military discipline? I already knew that," he says. In fact, his prior experience earned him a leadership position upon arrival.
Fork Union's emphasis on discipline and structure proved invaluable. It helped him excel not only on the postgraduate football field but also in the classroom, where he met Coach John Shuman, a man of few words but a significant influence. "We spent a lot of time together," Sheppard recalls with a smile. "He's my guy!"
Clemson and Beyond: Success on and Off the Field
After completing his postgraduate year, Sheppard, like some present-day "Education PGs," stayed on to achieve eligibility for Clemson. Unlike many football PGs who leave mid-year, Sheppard's relationships with non-football peers endured. "My roommate at Clemson, Tyrone Simpson, also went to Fork Union," he says.
The skills he honed at Fork Union, particularly the two-hour study hall and the ability to focus amidst distractions, translated to academic success at Clemson, where he earned a place on the honor roll.
Sheppard graduated with a business degree and was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 1993. He credits Fork Union for preparing him to thrive under coaches like Dennis Green and Tony Dungy. His work ethic earned him playing time alongside Hall of Famers, and he forged lasting friendships with players and personnel.
A Smooth Transition and a Life Well-Lived
The transition to the corporate world was seamless. Fork Union's diverse environment prepared him to work alongside people of different backgrounds. "Everything I've done has been unbelievable," Sheppard reflects. "It's been a storybook."
Looking back, Sheppard views that initial academic hurdle as a blessing. Fork Union, he acknowledges, played a pivotal role in his success. He concludes with a message for future Blue Devils:
"There's life after Fork Union, and the things you learn here will stay with you forever. Never stop supporting each other. FUMA is strong, no matter where you go in the world."
Don't miss Ashley Sheppard at Alumni Weekend, May 3rd to 5th!
Scores from the past:
Tuesday, April 9
- Tennis at Trinity Episcopal School • L, 0-9
- Prep Lacrosse at Benedictine College Prep • L, 6-18
- Prep Baseball at Trinity Episcopal School • L, 3-13
Wednesday, April 10
- Tennis at Prince Edward High School • W, 9-0
Friday, April 12
- Prep Lacrosse at Woodberry Forest School • L, 0-24
Saturday, April 13
- Track & Field vs. Gus Lacy Track Classic • 6th
Monday, April 15
- Prep Baseball vs. Christchurch School • I, 3-2 (resumes on April 29)
Tuesday, April 16
- Golf vs. Regents School • L, 239-218
- Prep Lacrosse vs. Fluvanna County • L, 7-20
- Junior Prep Baseball vs. Hargrave Military Academy • W, 14-4
Wednesday, April 17
- Prep Baseball at Collegiate School • L, 3-13
Junior Prep Baseball Defeats Hargrave in High-Scoring Affair
Tuesday, April 16, 2024
CHATHAM, VA – The Fork Union Military Academy Junior Prep baseball team put on an offensive clinic against rival Hargrave Military Academy, taking down the Tigers by a score of 14-4 Tuesday afternoon. This victory marks the team's second win of the season, putting their record at a strong 2-1.
The Blue Devils' bats were on fire throughout the game, erupting for a season-high 14 runs. Every member of the team contributed to the offensive effort, showcasing the team's depth and resilience.
On the mound, the pitching trio of Ryder Carignan, Gregory Wells, and Jimmy Cluff kept Hargrave in check, limiting them to just four runs. Their combined efforts on the hill were crucial in securing the win.
Defense was another bright spot for Fork Union. Behind the plate, Ian McHarg provided a steady presence, calling the game and shoring up the defense. The entire team displayed a commendable defensive performance, with every player seeing action on the field.
This convincing win over a rival is sure to boost the Blue Devils' confidence as they move forward in the season. Their ability to spread the scoring around offensively and get contributions from everyone is a testament to their well-rounded play.
The squad returns to action Monday, April 22 when they host Fairfax Home School at 4:30 p.m.
Fork Union Finishes Strong at the Gus Lacy Track Classic
Saturday, April 13, 2024
LOUISA, VA – The Fork Union Military Academy outdoor track and field program brought home a strong performance at the 2024 Gus Lacy Track Classic, placing sixth overall out of 17 participating teams last Saturday. The meet was filled with highlights for the Blue Devils, showcasing their talent and depth across multiple events.
Senior Daouda Niang stole the show with a dominant performance in the discus throw. His launch of 160-10 not only secured him the event victory but also propelled him to a fifth-place ranking in the entire state of Virginia.
Fork Union athletes earned 23 top-10 finishes, including five event champions. Eighth-grader Kaydan Whiteside emerged as a standout in the middle school division, dominating both the 100-meter dash (finishing a full second ahead of the competition) and the long jump events.
Senior Harry Momolu continued his impressive season, claiming first place in the 110-meter hurdles and securing a second-place finish in the 300-meter hurdles.
Another exciting moment came in the inaugural throwers' 4x100-meter relay. The Blue Devil quartet of Sebastian Espino, Kameron Taylor, Daouda Niang, and Jonie Ansah absolutely crushed the competition, clocking in at an impressive 52.57 – a full second faster than the next team.
This year's Gus Lacy Track Classic held a special significance as it honored alumnus Eddie Jones (Class of 2010). Jones played a pivotal role in the Academy's 2010 state title win, securing victory in the long jump and contributing to the state record-setting 4x100 relay team.
Head Coach Winston Brown expressed immense satisfaction with the team's performance, stating, "Saturday was a day that epitomizes why we coach. Despite challenging wind conditions, we saw numerous athletes achieve breakthroughs. Daouda Niang's discus throw was simply phenomenal. As a team, we're steadily progressing towards competing at the highest level."
The Blue Devils will be back in action on Saturday, April 20th, as they travel to compete in the Volunteer Classic hosted by the University of Tennessee.
If you haven't already, please download the Fork Union Athletics Mobile App for all game day information right at your fingertips!
Up Next in FUMA Athletics:
Friday, April 19
- Track & Field at the Volunteer Track Classic • All Day
- Prep Baseball vs. Collegiate School • 4:30 PM
Saturday, April 20
- Track & Field at the Volunteer Track Classic • All Day
Monday, April 22
- Prep Lacrosse at Fredericksburg Christian School • 4:30 PM
- Junior Prep Baseball vs. Fairfax Home School • 4:30 PM
Tuesday, April 23
- Prep Baseball vs. Woodberry Forest School • 4:30 PM
Wednesday, April 24
- Golf at St. Anne's Belfield School • 4:00 PM
- Prep Baseball at Woodberry Forest School • 4:30 PM
Thursday, April 25
- Golf at Blue Ridge School • 4:00 PM
Saturday, April 27
- Track & Field at Sprint into Spring Invitational • 10:00 AM
Join Us for an Unforgettable Summer at Fork Union Military Academy!
Looking for an exciting and enriching summer experience for your child? Look no further than Fork Union Military Academy's renowned summer camps! Whether your child is interested in sports, bonding experiences, or improving their skills, we have something for everyone.
Football, Strength & Speed Camp:
- When: June 14-17, 2024
- For: Day and overnight boys from ages 7 to 17
Get ready to dominate the gridiron with our Football, Strength & Speed Camp. Led by experienced coaches, this camp focuses on enhancing players' football skills, strength, and agility, giving them a competitive edge for the upcoming season.
Father-Son Weekend:
- When: June 21-23, 2024
- For boys of all ages and their fathers (or other adult male family member).
- Overnight Camp
Kick off the summer with our special Father-Son Weekend, where fathers and sons can bond through a variety of fun activities. From outdoor adventures to team challenges, this weekend promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Fork Union Basketball School - in its 39th Year:
- When: July 15-19, 2024
- Day and overnight options for boys and girls (girls must be day campers) from ages 5 to 18
Calling all basketball enthusiasts! Our Basketball School, now in its 39th year, offers top-notch coaching and skill development for boys and girls of all levels. Join us on the court to sharpen your skills and take your game to the next level. This camp offers overnight and day opportunities.
Visit our website here to learn more and secure your spot today. Don't miss out on the opportunity for your child to have a summer they'll never forget at Fork Union Military Academy!
Fork Union PG Basketball Sign Six to College Programs Following Record-Setting Season
FORK UNION, VA – Six Fork Union Military Academy Postgraduate basketball players capped off a historic season by signing National Letters of Intent on Tuesday morning at the Estes Athletic Center.
Jaden Johnson, Charlie Tierney, Michael Wilson, Carter Wesson, DeSean Goode and David Burnett all committed to their respective colleges with coaches, staff, faculty, peers, and family in attendance.
"After an incredible season, it is incredibly rewarding to see our players signing scholarships with strong college programs," said head coach Bob Williams. "I am immensely proud of this group. They embraced the challenges of our program and transformed into well-rounded young men and even better basketball players. We wish them the absolute best in their college careers and beyond. This was a special team, and they will always be considered sons of Fork Union."
Johnson, the 2024 Elite Prep League Player of the Year, signed with Old Dominion University. A point guard out of Bishop McNamara High School, Johnson averaged 15.8 points per game and 5.5 rebounds per game this season. He is the son of Dellisha and Johnnie Johnson Waldorf, Maryland.
Tierney, a 6-foot-1 point guard out of Loyola Academy, signed with John Carroll University. Tierney averaged seven points per game with a 41 three-point percentage this season. He is the son of Amy and Bob Tierney Lincolnwood, Illinois.
Wilson, a 6-foot-6 guard out of Metrolina Christian Academy, signed with North Greenville University. Wilson averaged 12.1 points per game this season. He is the son of Heather and Michael Wilson of Charlotte, North Carolina.
Wesson, a 6-foot-4 guard out of Albemarle High School, signed with the University of Montevallo. Wesson averaged 11.3 points per game with a 40.1 percentage from behind the arc this season. He is the son of Jason Wesson and Kelly Barnes of Charlottesville, Virginia.
Goode, a 6-foot-8 forward out of Fairmont Senior High School, signed with the University of New Orleans. Goode averaged 13.9 points per game and 7.8 rebounds per game this season. He is the son of Megan Corby of Fairmont, West Virginia
Burnett, a 6-foot-4 forward out of Buford High School, signed with the United States Navel Academy. Burnett averaged 10.6 points per game and 5.6 rebounds per game this season. He is the son of David and Pamey Burnett of Flowery Branch, Georgia.
The Blue Devils capped off the season with a remarkable 31-7 record, securing both the Elite Prep League Championship and a berth in the National Prep Championship. This 31-win season stands as a new school record for Fork Union PG basketball.
Are you interested in playing college lacrosse?
Check out Fork Union's Postgraduate Lacrosse program! Elevate your game and academicsvwithout losing a minute of college eligibility!