John Varlas is back from a well-earned two-week vacation and already diving into high school football.

He’s compiled a list of local commitments and spent the rest of the week visiting programs to gather material for his upcoming Dandy Dozen preview stories.

Today, I’m stepping in for John on the newsletter because he’s on the road to Lebanon, Tennessee, where he’ll be honored tonight at the Tennessee Sports Writers Association awards dinner. He’s receiving the Gary Lundy Writer of the Year award — a deserved recognition of his work.

In the meantime, we’ve got some great stories about former high school sports standouts, including William Bedford, Hunter Goodman and Brent Rooker. — David Boyd, sports editor

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Tracking Memphis high school football-recruiting commitments By The Daily Memphian Staff

Former ECS baseball standout joins MLB Home Run Derby By The Associated Press

Former Melrose and Memphis big man earns Hall of Fame honors By The Daily Memphian Staff

Houston's Justin Frison moves past injury By John Varlas

Daily Memphian's sports staff wins three first places in state writing contest By The Daily Memphian Staff

Two NBA Draft picks with Memphis ties go viral with emotional moments By Tim Buckley

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