Often, the stories behind the stories are the best stories. Case in point, Sammy Chapman.

You may recall that Chapman played a crucial role for Northpoint’s baseball team during Spring Fling, retiring the opposing team’s best player to clinch his school’s second state title. Chapman’s pitch of choice was a knuckleball.

But how he came to develop confidence in the pitch — and what became of the game ball — put a compelling exclamation mark onto the high school season.

And with school out, that means it’s time for summer camps. At Arlington this week, coaches from Italy’s most successful soccer club were on hand to share their vision of the beautiful game—while perhaps even finding a player or two.

Stay in the action and follow us on the Daily Memphian Sports Facebook page. If you’re already a Daily Memphian subscriber, we appreciate your support. If not, consider signing up for unlimited access to all of our sports coverage.

Thanks to baseball’s most baffling pitch, and a Major Leaguer’s kindness, Northpoint’s closer was able to make a special delivery.  

Learning to play the Juventus way — and having fun — are the priorities this week at Arlington High. By John Varlas

Senior Jordan Frison leads the way with 19 points and earns tournament MVP honors. By John Varlas

“I’m going to miss all the kids that I’ve worked with and all the people I’ve spent time with on the tennis court. But I’m looking forward to the next chapter in my life,” said Mark Bran. By John Varlas

Collierville senior threepeats in Class AA singles; two other individuals and two doubles teams also win gold on the final day of Spring Fling. By John Varlas

Despite physical limitations, this ECS eighth grader is upholding the family tradition while making his own name. By John Varlas

CBHS senior sprinter Jaxon Hammond sets personal bests in winning both the 100- and 200-meter dashes. By John Varlas

The Lynx get two early goals in rapid succession and post a shutout for the 17th time this year. By John Varlas

.....