Category: Sports

Red Devils defeat Center Grove 75-45 in winter homecoming game

Update: JHS defeated Center Grove 75-45 in William S. Johnson Arena.

by Austin Bainbridge

Senior Michael Cooper faces off with Floyd Central’s Isaac Kaiser on Jan. 17. The Highlanders were up 12-6 in the first quarter, but JHS won the game 92-54. The Red Devils are 2-0 in the Hoosier Hills Conference. They play Center Grove this Friday at 7:30 p.m. Photo by Kirk Owen.

The JHS boys’ basketball team is starting to find traction on the slippery slopes of Indiana high school basketball, but the team has seen that the competition is tough and that it’s the new normal.

“Our biggest struggle has been getting adjusted to the fact that every team we play is giving us their best shot. Every opponent we play treats it like their state championship game. Their guys get really excited and prepared to play us,” said head boys’ basketball coach Sherron Wilkerson

The team is 1-2 on the road, and the players and coaching staff do not take that lightly.

“I think our record on the road is a very big deal; we put a lot of focus on it – that’s why we try to make our schedule as tough as possible. That’s also because every tournament game isn’t always at home, so you have to get used to playing on the road to win in the tournament,” said Wilkerson.

If the team wants to compete for a state championship they will need to win some pivotal rivalry and conference games 

“I think our record on the road is a very big deal; we put a lot of focus on it – that’s why we try to make our schedule as tough as possible. That’s also because every tournament game isn’t always at home, so you have to get used to playing on the road to win in the tournament.”

Boys’ Basketball Coach Sherron Wilkerson

The team started out strong, edging out a win against Cathedral, but has lost some important games, which leaves their record standing at 8-5, which is not what people expected.

“I did not expect to have the record we have right now; we are from my own personal expectation, a little bit behind. That is because we haven’t made the adjustment to everybody giving us their best shot,” said Wilkerson.

The team has performed well in games, but players are always searching to critique and improve their own and their teammates’ skills.

“Our base problem is not bringing enough energy and hustle; we are too complacent,” said freshman guard Cornelius Weobong.

Even though the team isn’t where they expected to be right now, the return of senior Tre Singleton from injury has provided some good news. He has played a key role on the team in the past and with him back, they will most likely play better.

“Tre’s been playing on restricted minutes until he’s comfortable playing a full game, which we anticipate is right around the corner,” said Wilkerson.

Fans have rallied behind the Red Devils through the obstacles. 

“The team has played very well, especially considering injuries and that they play tough competition,” said English teacher David Kummer.

The Red Devils ride a two-game game winning streak into this Friday’s matchup with Center Grove, including a 92-54 win over Floyd Central and a 41-29 win over Providence last weekend. The players and coaches are trying to find ways to replicate recent success for upcoming games.

“I have seen us excel in understanding what our roles are better; that is the one area where you never can be good enough. Everybody understands what is expected of them on a day-to-day basis. I’ve seen a lot of teams struggle with that,” said Wilkerson.

Players have made adjustments and improvements over the season. The coaching staff especially focuses on the growth of younger players to prepare them for varsity competition.

“I have definitely seen a lot of growth from our younger players, especially some sophomores who have improved a tremendous amount from last season up until now,”  said Wilkerson.

The team will host Jennings County on Feb. 15 in a game where JHS will honor the legacy of Taylor High School, the former African-American school in Jeffersonville. The Red Devils will wear purple and gold jerseys, the colors of Taylor High School, during the game as part of the ceremony.

“I think the Taylor game is very important. It commemorates a point of time in this community that was extremely important to people. I think that from a historical perspective it’s very important that our students and student-athletes understand some of the things that our community has faced,” said Wilkerson.

This Friday’s non-conference game against the 8-5 Center Grove Trojans is at 7:30 p.m. Homecoming festivities are at halftime.

Junior Elijah Cheeks brings the ball up the court during the JHS game against Providence on Saturday. The Highlanders won 41-29 and will play Center Grove this Friday, Jan. 24 at 7:30 p.m. at home. Photo by Sophia Goforth.

by jhshyphen

Senior Kaylea Beauchamp competes in Indiana’s first girls’ state wrestling finals, represents JHS as state runner-up

Update, Friday Night: Kaylea Beauchamp is the 2025 IHSAA Inaugural Girls’ State 135-lb Runner-Up.

Update, 4:06 p.m.: Senior Kaylea Beauchamp has advanced to the Final Four and is two wins away from a state title.

Update, 1 p.m.: Senior Kaylea Beauchamp advanced to the medal round in today’s state wrestling finals with a 2:37 pin.

by Ifrah Daber

Meet Kaylea Beauchamp, a senior athlete on the girls’ wrestling team, a Lady Devil wrestler, and regional champion that represents Jeff High in the inaugural IHSAA girls’ state tournament today.

Senior Kaylea Beauchamp competes against her Marion C. Moore High School opponent in December. Beauchamp competes today in the first IHSAA girls’ state wrestling finals. Photo by Brian Cardoza.

Beauchamp started wrestling in middle school. She was the only girl in a group of boys, making it difficult; thoughts of quitting came to her mind. She speaks of the struggle and overthinking that could come from comparing herself to the boys on her team.

“I know it’s a lot of overthinking when it comes to wrestling because you see the boys wrestling how they are, they’re nowhere near the girls. Girls wrestling is totally different, but we aren’t soft.”

Despite these challenges, she still recommended that other women try out for wrestling, stating that there are benefits that come with wrestling, from discipline to friendships. 

“It teaches you far more about discipline than just getting on the mat and trying to dominate someone. It helps you gain friends, and it’s a really bonding time.”

All this discipline has paid off for Beauchamp, as she is now taking Jeff High to the first IHSAA girls’ state tournament finals today. She spoke on the feeling of representing the school at such a large event.

“It’s always fun to represent something and seeing how proud everyone is.”

JHS showed great pride in her indeed, from signing a piece of paper wishing her luck to having her teammates attending the tournament for support.

Senior Kaylea Beauchamp competes today in the inaugural IHSAA state girls’ wrestling final. Photo by Brian Cardoza.
by jhshyphen

Red Devils defeat Evansville North 68-44, will face Seymour this Friday

All photos by Madison Pritchard and Kirk Owen.

AFJROTC march to present the colors before the national anthem at the beginning of the JHS-Evansville North basketball game on Dec. 6. Photo by Madison Pritchard.
Senior Shawn Boyd takes the court at the beginning of the game. Photo by Kirk Owen.
The JHS Step Team performs during the Red Devil game against Evansville North on Dec. 6. Photo by Kirk Owen.
Senior P.J. Douglas guards his Evansville North opponent. Douglas scored 18 points in the 68-44 Red Devil win. Photo by Madison Pritchard.
Senior Michael Cooper receives a pass during the third quarter. Cooper scored 15 points. Photo by Madison Pritchard.
Head coach Sherron Wilkerson speaks with freshman Mason Longest on the bench. Photo by Madison Pritchard.
Senior Gilly Polk guards his Evansville North opponent. Polk scored 7 points. Photo by Madison Pritchard.
Senior P.J. Douglas fights for the rebound. He had 11 rebounds for the game. Photo by Madison Pritchard.
Coach Sherron Wilkerson points as the Red Devils switch to defense. Photo by Madison Pritchard.
Senior P.J. Douglas shoots a free throw. Photo by Kirk Owen.
Sophomore Jacob Wilkerson scores two of his 4 points on a lay-up. Photo by Madison Pritchard.
Junior Elijah Cheeks passes the ball to senior Gilly Polk. Photo by Kirk Owen.
Senior Michael Cooper shoots over the Evansville North defense. JHS will play Seymour this Friday, Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at home. Photo by Kirk Owen.
by jhshyphen

Fast Feature: What is your primary goal on the girls’ basketball team? What is your primary goal as a coach on the basketball team?

by Gabby Watkins

As the 6-2  girls’ basketball team comes off a 46-30 win over Bedford North Lawrence and prepares to face Columbus East Saturday, players and coaches have expressed  their goals and wishes for this  season.  

Sophomore Alyviah Lewis-Redd stands on the free throw line as the Red Devils face Cathedral High School on Saturday, Nov. 30. JHS won 49-39. They also defeated Hoosier Hills rival Bedford North Lawrence 46-30 Tuesday night. Photo by Madison Pritchard.

“My primary goal as a coach is building relationships, although winning games is fun. Relationships has always been a huge reason why I coach, I want to instill confidence in players, I want to be someone they can rely on, whether it’s to vent or to get help with homework. I coached my first group of girls when I was a junior in high school and I still talk to some players who were on that team who are now seniors. I love the game of basketball, but being able to watch players achieve things inside and outside of the sport is something I love. I want to be one of their biggest fans on and off the court.”  Coach Morgan Austin 

“My goal on the team is to win the basketball season and be more of a team.”  Sophomore Maliyah Poindexter   

“To rebound and play my role and do it correctly so we can win and have confidence in myself.” Junior Kiya Boatwright 

“To become a leader on and off the court.”  Freshman Mya Corbin

“To have confidence in myself, to help the team and I get down on myself a lot.”  Junior Ahleeyah  Brown 

“To be the best teammate I can be.” Senior Ava Scott

“Get better confidence, build more friendships.” Sophomore Egypt Whitehead

“Make sure we  have a family culture and and and fun environment for the younger generation.” Senior Katie Lawrence  

“Gain more confidence get close with my upperclassmen.” Freshman Jazlynn Bryant 

“I think my primary goal on the basketball team is to be a voice on the court, play the role of good defense, and help hold myself and others accountable to better each other.” Sophomore  Lila Schurr  

“My primary goal on the team is to fill my part by playing defense, controlling the pace on the court, making sure people are in the right places for a play and also getting to the goal and rebounding.” Junior Kelis Dansby 

“That we win sectional and state.” Sophomore  Alyviah Lewis-Redd 

by jhshyphen

Red Devils beat Cathedral Saturday night as Homecoming royalty is crowned

Photos by Madison Pritchard, Kirk Owen and Stella Siewert

Freshman MaKenna Taylor eyes the net during the girls’ basketball game against Cathedral on Nov. 30. The game kicked off an afternoon of basketball last Saturday, as both the girls’ and boys’ varsity teams played and defeated Cathedral. Photo by Madison Pritchard.
Senior Kelis Dansby shoots a free throw. Photo by Madison Pritchard.
Senior Makenzie Mason blocks a shot during the JHS-Cathedral game. Photo by Madison Pritchard.
Junior Maizy Smith waits for a rebound from a free throw. Photo by Madison Pritchard.
Senior guard Gilly Polk and the rest of the starting line-up wait with head coach Sherron Wilkerson before they are announced. Photo by Madison Pritchard.
The fall Homecoming court stands before the ceremony, which took place during halftime of the boys’ basketball game against Cathedral. Homecoming had been postponed from earlier in the year by bad weather. Photo by Madison Pritchard.
Seniors Romier Hunter-Lawrence and Maddie Hargett react after they are announced as Homecoming king and queen during halftime of the boys’ JHS-Cathedral basketball game. Photo by Stella Siewert.
Seniors Romier Hunter-Lawrence and Maddie Hargett crowned homecoming king and queen during halftime of the JHS-Cathedral game. Homecoming festivities had been delayed from earlier in the school year due to weather. Photo by Maddie Pritchard.
Senior guard Michael Cooper scores two of his 29 points in the season opener against Cathedral High School on Saturday, Nov. 30. The Red Devils won 67-65 on a night that included a 49-39 win for girls’ basketball over Cathedral. Photo by Kirk Owen.
Senior P.J. Douglas boxes out Cathedral senior Aidan Hughes. Photo by Madison Pritchard.
Students celebrate with senior P.J. Douglas at the end of the JHS boys’ game with Cathedral to end an afternoon of wins and homecoming festivities. The Red Devils won the game 67-65. Students were warned by principal Pam Hall on Monday, Dec. 2 to not storm the court in future games. Photo by Madison Pritchard.
by jhshyphen

Red Devils begin season of high expectations this weekend

by Austin Bainbridge

Head coach Sherron Wilkerson sits at his desk, planning practices and workouts and developing ways to help players improve. During the offseason, Wilkerson has to put in a lot of effort to maintain one of Indiana’s best high school teams.

“To win a state championship as a team we must be disciplined and mentally tough,” said Wilkerson.

JHS has a tough schedule and has high expectations from players and coaches alike this season, but the players aren’t concerned about the pressure.

“I’m not worried about the competition; our coaches have given us everything we need to win,”  said freshman Cornelius Weobong.

The coaches help the players improve, but the players know to get better they have to work on their own time to meet the expectations they’ll face this season.

“I work out with the team, but I also do pushups every night. I also jump a lot to improve my vertical,” said varsity player and senior PJ Douglas.

“To win a state championship as a team we must be disciplined and mentally tough.”

Basketball Coach Sherron Wilkerson

This commitment is essential for the Red Devils, who are expected to contend for a state championship. 

“This season is different because we are in contention for a state championship, and that’s huge for this team,” said Wilkerson.

The players have a good reason to believe in their skills, as they train intensely. The players know what’s at stake.

“I train hard seven days a week so that we can make and win a state championship,” said Weobong. 

The confidence of everyone surrounding JHS, especially the fans, is high.

“I think they are going to win a state championship, and I’m excited to see it,” said English teacher David Kummer.

The hype for this team has very good reason, too. The coaches have helped the players get better since the final game of last year’s 20-8 season that ended in a 52-51 semi-state finals loss to Ben Davis.

“My coaches have really helped me improve my game by showing me what I need to work on,” said Weobong.

These players feel that confidence. They worked hard all summer and fall getting ready for the first game.

“Practice is a big part of what we do. It translates directly into games,” said Douglas.

The fans are also hoping to help this team out on the court

Kummer said, “Fans contribute to the team during the games with big crowds that can motivate this team to play better.”

This team’s hope for the season is sky-high, and they are ready to get on the court and meet those expectations.

“As a team, we put in the work, and are ready to back up the expectations,” said Douglas.

JHS faces Cathedral High School at home this Saturday; the boys’ and girls’ teams will play. The theme is “White Out,” and the fall Homecoming crowning postponed due to weather will take place at halftime of the boys’ varsity game.

by jhshyphen

Homecoming celebrated this weekend after several weeks of delays due to weather

by Shelby Keesee

At long last, after weeks of deferral, Jeff High’s long awaited Homecoming is set to take place this weekend.

Yet what is Homecoming – and why are we thrilled?

Homecoming is the celebration of school traditions and the highlighting of certain students whose goals are to become Homecoming King and Queen. Others may attend to commemorate JHS, dress fancily, or simply to socialize with peers while showing Red Devil spirit.

Poor weather conditions several weeks ago are to blame for the event’s delay. Storms producing heavy rains and weather warnings were present in the area prior to the original date.

After discussions with Student Council sponsor Natalie Woods, principal Pam Hall and the administrative team decided to postpone Homecoming to the first boys’ and girls’ basketball home game to give the courts their deserving recognition.

“We did not want to have our Homecoming court out there in their dresses or in their nice suits getting drenched, so we made the decision to look for an alternative date,” stated Hall. 

Although Homecoming has been delayed, voter decisions have remained intact and up-to-date.

“The student population has already voted, so the first round of votes are for all those people who signed up that want to be on court or candidates, and then they are chosen by vote by their class,” stated Woods. “The second round of votes are just for the King and Queen, so the whole school gets to vote for the King and Queen of their choice.”

Results from the voting window have stayed exceptionally quiet, but the royalty and court members will be announced this Saturday night.

“We have 20 Homecoming court members. We have four duos of seniors – so we have four boys and four girls for seniors, and then we have two boys and two girls for each junior, sophomore and freshman classes,” said Woods. “Our seniors come make up the King and Queen candidates, and then our juniors, sophomores and freshmen make up what’s known as the Homecoming court.”

While attending Homecoming, JROTC Saber Team presentations are expected, along with a more formal ceremony where students are presented to JHS community members, staff and other students.

Both the girls’ and boys’ basketball teams will play this Saturday; the theme is “White Out.”

by jhshyphen

Cheerleaders secure their bid to Nationals in Orlando

by Madison Pritchard

Jeff High Cheer has done it again. This marks the fourth year in a row that the team has gotten a bid to make their way to Nationals. They competed at the UCA Hoosier Hills Regional competition on Nov. 17 and received their bid to attend.

“I feel grateful and fortunate that we have been able to make it to Nationals for four years straight. I’m proud of my teammates for working hard the past six months. And I’m excited to make some more memories in Orlando,” stated senior cheerleader Violet Fondrisi, who competed at the regional. 

The work doesn’t stop there, though. The cheerleading team still has a long season ahead of them. 

“I take it one day at a time, and I think about how our hardest practices will only make us better,” Fondrisi said about their intense preparation. 

The moment they received their bid was bittersweet, especially for the seniors on the team. 

When asked about her goals for the season and Nationals, Fondrisi stated that she hopes the seniors are able to “enjoy one of (their) last experiences being a Jeff High cheerleader.”

Jeff High Cheer is hopeful for their season, and they plan to win big once they hit the mat in Orlando.

by jhshyphen

Girls’ swim and dive team competes at first meet of season

All photos by Romier Hunter-Lawrence and Maggie Nifong.

The Red Devil girls’ swimming and diving team pose before they swim at the New Albany Relays Girls’ Swim Meet on Tuesday, Nov. 19. JHS placed second to Floyd Central, beating out several local teams., winning the 200 butterfly relay and the 200 backstroke relay. Photo by Romier Hunter-Lawrence.
Senior Kaya Arnold leads off the relay for the Red Devils. Boys’ and girls’ head coach Mike Pepa described the meet as “a fun meet traditionally — low pressure. I think our times are really good for this point of the season. The girls performed very well as a team.” Photo by Romier Hunter-Lawrence.
Senior Eva Ellis performs her dive at New Albany High School on Tuesday, Nov. 19. Head boys’ and girls’ diving coach Holden Henderson said the meet went really well. “I had two divers compete — Eva and Mia — both of them dove well and came out of the meet confident.” Photo by Romier Hunter-Lawrence.
Senior Mia Panepinto performs a reverse dive. Photo by Romier Hunter-Lawrence.
Junior Litzy Rubio dives in as the second leg on the relay at New Albany High School. Photo by Romier Hunter-Lawrence.
Sophomore Macyn Jackson finishes the third leg, handing the lead to senior Maggie Nifong. Photo by Romier Hunter-Lawrence.
Senior Mia Panepinto performs a back dive as part of the New Albany Girls’ Relay Meet. Photo by Romier Hunter-Lawrence.
Senior Mia Panepinto celebrates her scores from her performed dive. Head boys’ and girls’ swimming coach Mike Pepa said, “The girls performed very well as a team — a lot of spirit, a lot of camaraderie, a lot of support.” Photo by Romier Hunter-Lawrence.
The boys’ swimming team supports the girls’ team at the New Albany Girls’ Relay Meet. Head boys’ and girls’ swimming coach Mike Pepa said, “Also, a lot of support from the boys’ team that came to cheer on the girls, so it was a great positive way to start the season.” Photo by Maggie Nifong.
by jhshyphen

Taylor High School graduates share Clark County history in interview with Hyphen, WJHI

All photos by Ifrah Daber and Andrea Campbell.

Taylor High School graduates Flora Clipper and Frank Baines join JHS Hyphen and WJHI journalists for an extensive interview Tuesday morning, Nov. 19, in the WJHI studio. Clipper graduated from Taylor High School in 1940, and Baines graduated in 1952. Photo by Ifrah Daber.
Clipper and Baines with Hyphen and WJHI journalists and JHS student ambassadors, including junior Teagan Cofie, senior Avani Doogarsingh, sophomore Tristan Cooley, senior Andrea Campbell, and senior Tristan Darvin. Clipper and Baines discussed the history of Taylor High School in an extensive interview, sharing details about Clark County history and the school that was constructed to educate Clark County’s African American students. Photo by Ifrah Daber.
Clipper and Baines meet with principal Pam Hall and WJHI instructor Dave Callan during their visit on Tuesday, Nov. 19. Photo by Ifrah Daber.
Clipper and Baines with Hyphen and WJHI journalists Eliot Swincher and Ifrah Daber. Photo by Andrea Campbell.
Basketball coach Sherron Wilkerson and senior Tre Singleton take a moment to greet Clipper and Baines. Baines played on the Taylor High School basketball team. Photo by Ifrah Daber.
Baines models a Taylor High School shirt, which includes the school colors. Photo by Ifrah Daber.

Readers can learn more on the history of Taylor High School by examining Greta Reel’s May, 2020 Hyphen story.

Editor’s Note: This story will be updated as JHS media and other student organizations examine the history and legacy of Jeffersonville’s Taylor High School.

by jhshyphen

Feature Photo: Covering the Red Devils

Sophomore Dane Watterson practices some camera moves before the JV girls’ basketball game on Tuesday, Nov. 12. “Broadcasting this game was a whole new different experience, I learned a lot,” said Watterson. The varsity Red Devils defeated Jasper 71-55. Both the JV and varsity girls’ teams will travel to Warren Central this Saturday, Nov. 16. JV will play at 3 p.m.; varsity will play at 4:30 p.m. Photo by Bruno Diaz Cerro.
by jhshyphen