Tennessee state champion of the FLW (Forest L. Wood) Junior Bass Club, Cole Sands, recently represented Tennessee in the Junior World Fishing Championship in Arkadelphia, Ark. Forty-one states were represented in two age categories, 11-to-14-year-olds and 14-to-18-year-olds. Each state had a representative and both age slots were recognized for their accomplishments.

The anglers were televised on national television where outdoor celebrity Hank Parker interviewed each contestant.

Sands joined the Cleveland Junior Bass Club and has enjoyed his time as a member along with the involvement of community volunteers.

Roger Graham and Caleb Luzader, presidents of the club, help organize and schedule tournaments for the kids. The Senior Bass Club of Cleveland also helps in the organization of the club.

Youth interested in joining the Cleveland Junior Bass Club, or adults interested in volunteering, can contact Roger Graham, Caleb Luzader or Cole Sands at 336-3107.

The Junior Bass Club meets the first Monday of each month at the Bradley County Justice Center.