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Colleges: Haverford’s Hendry wastes little time in toppling record Daily Times Staff Reports Fiona Hendry made her first indoor track race as a collegian a memorable one. The Haverford freshman set the program record in the 3,000-meter run to highlight the Fords’ effort at the New York Team Challenge at the Armory Sunday. Hendry, a cross country All-American, won the race in 10 minutes, 0.08 seconds to break the indoor mark of 10:03.41 set by Jane Steinmann. Teammate Kelley Riffenburgh finished ninth with a career-best time of 10:43.22 to help the Fords to a fourth-place finish in the team competition. In Saturday action, Cara Keifer finished fifth in the 800 (2:21.45). Katie Balmer (Strath Haven) was seventh in her first collegiate 1,000 (3:05.76) and Nora Weathers was ninth in the mile (5:20.04). In the field events, Emma Kornetsky placed fourth in the triple jump (33 feet), while Carolyn Oehrig was fifth in the high jump (4-11). Drexel 58, William & Mary 46 The Dragons used the inside play of Taylor Wootton and Nicki Jones to go 5-0 in the CAA for the second time in program history. Wootton scored 22 points and Jones added 20. Hollie Mershon (Archbishop Carroll) added 14 points, eight rebounds and five assists for the Dragons (12-4, 5-0). Saint Joseph’s 69, Saint Louis 38 The Hawks (12-5, 3-0) used a smothering defense to hold the Billikins to 25 percent shooting from the floor (14-for-56). Chatila van Grinsven led the offense with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Erin Shields (Archbishop Carroll) added 13 points and eight assists. Natasha Cloud (Cardinal O’Hara) pitched in with 12 points and seven assists. Continued... Duquesne 65, Temple 45 The Dukes (14-3, 3-0) jumped out to a 34-14 halftime lead and never looked back. Tyonna Williams led the Owls (7-10, 1-2) with 13 points. Butler 59, La Salle 42 The Bulldogs used an 18-7 run to break the game open in the first half. Daress McClung led the way for Butler (11-7, 2-1) with 19 points, nine rebounds, seven blocked shots, five assists and three steals. Brittany Wilson had 17 points, eight rebounds and two assists for La Salle (5-13, 1-2). Shanel Harrison chipped in with 11 points and 12 boards. Utica 4, Neumann 1 The Pioneers broke a 1-1 deadlock in the second period and sealed the victory with two goals in the third period. Ang Gilmour scored the only goal for Neumann (5-12-1, 3-7), while goalie Shannon Donnelly made 35 saves. Haverford 9, Smith 0 Continued... Samara Flug only gave up six points for a 3-0 win at No. 6 to pace the Fords (2-6) at the Pioneer Valley Invitational at Amherst. Caroline Nightingale (No. 1), Brittany Simmonds (No. 2), Alex Love (No. 3), Randeee Johnson (No. 5) and Sarah Madigan (No. 8) also won in the minimum three games. Haverford 8, Boston University 1 Andy McComas, Charlie Michele and Nathan Vestrich-Shade rolled to 3-0 victories at Nos. 1, 4 and 5 to lead the Fords (5-3) at the Pioneer Valley Invitational. Philadelphia Sports By Bleacher Report Location, ST | website.com Athletes of the Week National Sports Videos Insight, observations on the first team in professional sports to reach 10,000 losses and the latest Philly team to make the playoffs - the Philadelphia Phillies. Jack McCaffery is the lead sports columnist for the Daily Times and delcotimes.com. He has spent several decades covering everything from the Phillies, Eagles, Flyers and Sixers, to college hoops, to high school sports in Delco. Bob Grotz blogs about the Philadelphia Eagles. Terry Toohey has the colleges covered. Laura Nachman covers everything about televison, from American Idol to sweeps. The SB Nation blog about the Philadelphia Phillies. The SB Nation blog about the Philadelphia Eagles. The SB Nation blog about the Philadelphia Flyers. The SB Nation blog about the 76ers. Top Sports Stories - NHL 2013 division-by-division preview - Fiery Orioles manager Earl Weaver dead at 82 - Cardinals Hall of Famer Stan Musial dies at age 92 - College Basketball: Kane able to boost Villanova with clutch free throws - Union add two players to roster - Punch Shots: Hockey’s back, so let’s all just move on - Despite defeat, Meszaros, Flyers defense seem to be solid

http://www.delcotimes.com/articles/2013/01/20/sports/doc50fcbb4d1ca00772846091.txt

Less Than Sporting Reducing the exorbitant amounts paid to athletes and owners would help the average fan—and the government should do it. But this kind of approach need not be restricted to taxpayer-supported stadiums. All stadiums could be forced to sell tickets to the four major sports at affordable prices. If that sounds outlandish, it’s important to keep in mind how skewed the balance of government intervention in sports, in favor of ownership, has long been. Baseball’s antitrust exemption bequeathed to the owners the privilege to avoid the kind of market competition that defines so many American industries. The last serious legislative challenge to it, in 2001, was soundly defeated, even though it proposed to affect only one portion of the exemption, that dealing with restrictions on teams’ ability to move to new locations. (That bill, the Fairness in Antitrust in National Sports, had some serious progressive bona fides, counting Congressman John Conyers and Senator Paul Wellstone as its sponsors.) The second ambitious intervention would affect the television market. So much of the money related to sports today is tied up in cable television contracts. In a time of dwindling mass television events, sports have proven to be among the last consistently lucrative genres. Recent sports deals that have attracted widespread headlines because of their size were tied directly to cable television money. The Los Angeles Dodgers sold for an eye-popping $2 billion because of the enormous value of an impending cable contract. And the Los Angeles Angels signed Albert Pujols for a quarter of a billion dollars because they too were counting on future cable television revenue. If the goal is reducing sports-related money and maintaining if not improving the everyday fan’s experience, then government intervention should mandate that all sporting events should be available on local-access television. Fans should not be forced to buy expensive cable packages in order to see their local teams play—teams that, in many cases, they have already assisted through public funds. By reducing the costs of being a fan, we can also reduce the total amount of money spent on sports. The players and owners can afford it (to be clear, the amount of money that will flow to our athletes and owners would likely still surpass that in leagues overseas). And our social priorities could benefit from the adjustment. Post a Comment

http://www.democracyjournal.org/26/less-than-sporting.php?page=3

Feb. 6, 2013 Box Score | Video Highlights: Blue Tube CHICAGO – Jasmine Penny set the tone early, and the rest of the Blue Demons followed her lead Tuesday night at McGrath-Phillips Arena. Penny connected on her first seven shots en route to scoring a career-high 29 points in DePaul’s 74-48 BIG EAST Conference victory over Seton Hall. Penny was a sizzling 12-of-15 from the floor while also contributing six rebounds, four assists and two steals. DePaul (17-6, 6-3 in the BIG EAST) won its 12th in a row at home behind a game-defining 19-1 run in the second half. “I knew I had to run the floor because we had not been doing that the last couple of games,” Penny said. “Our guards kept looking for me. If it wasn’t for the guards we have, I wouldn’t score anything.” Backcourt mates Brittany Hrynko and Chanise Jenkins combined for 17 points, 15 rebounds, 14 assists and four steals. “I couldn’t score in the first half,” said Hrynko who was held to one point in the first 20 minutes. “In the second half, I wasn’t going to force anything. I tried to play tough on defense, and I thought our defense was a big key in the second half.” After a hot-shooting first half in which she went 6-for-6, Penny hit her first shot of the second half and turned it into a three-point play. Penny missed for the first time on DePaul’s next possession, but scored on the rebound. The Pirates connected on back-to-back threes, but a pair of Penny foul shots put the Blue Demons up 40-26 and launched her team on that 19-1 surge. Three baskets by Katherine Harry, a Hrynko jumper, one basket by Megan Podkowa followed by a Hrynko three and a highlight-reel layup put the home team in front by 28. A Penny layup upped the margin to 30. “I struggled in the last two games, fouling out,” Penny said. “The coaches said we needed our post players to score tonight. I had to come out, be aggressive and be a presence on the floor. “The last couple of games we had not been running the floor. Tonight, our offense got back to playing DePaul ball.” Playing in the rotation of post players, Podkowa finished with 13 points and six rebounds while center Katherine Harry had eight points, 12 rebounds, three blocks and two steals. “The key to this game was playing it to our pace,” said DePaul coach Doug Bruno. “Once it got into a higher-possession game, it was beneficial to us. “I thought we might be able to dominate inside, and that’s what we did. Brittany made a sacrifice tonight. Running those things for our big people didn’t give our guards as much space. “Brittany does a lot for us on the offensive end, and her defense can get overlooked. I thought her defense in the second half was one of the keys.” DePaul outscored Seton Hall 46-18 in the paint and out-rebounded the Pirates 50-33. Bruno & Co. were unable to take advantage of Seton Hall’s errant shooting in the early going. The Pirates opened the game hitting just two of their first 11 shots. They finished 19-of-59 from the floor. Just before the midpoint of the first half, Podkowa launched the Blue Demons on a 15-2 run. Penny scored three baskets in a row and four all together in the surge. Gena Lenti hit a three-pointer from the corner and Harry finished off the burst. Seton Hall (8-14, 3-6 BIG EAST) had missed its first nine attempts from three-point range when Terry Green finally converted. Hrynko’s technical foul shot left DePaul with a 25-15 lead in the final four minutes of the first half. Yet another Penny basket followed by a pair of free throws extended the lead to 14. Penny’s layup sent DePaul into its halftime locker room with a 33-20 advantage. The Blue Demons were credited with 13 assists on their 14 baskets and wound up with a sparkling 25 assists on 31 baskets. Penny made every shot she took in the first 20 minutes and scored 14 points. Seton Hall made just eight of 29 shots in the first half. DePaul heads to No. 3/2 Connecticut for a 2:30 p.m. game on Sunday that will be televised by ESPNU. Notes: DePaul won its 12-consecutive game at McGrath-Phillips Arena… DePaul is now 13-1 on its home court this season… DePaul had 25 assists... the 12th time this season DePaul has recorded 20 or more assists… Jasmine Penny scored a career-high 29 points… her previous career-high was 25 at Notre Dame on Feb. 5, 2012… Kelsey Reynolds got her first start of the season… DePaul has now used five different lineups this season… only Harry, Penny and Hrynko have started all 23 games this season… Harry appeared in her 126th career game which ranks ninth in DePaul’s record book… Harry had 12 rebounds and eclipsed the double digits for the 15th time this season and in her last four games… Brittany Hrynko now has 66 3-pointers this season which ranks ninth in DePaul’s single-season record book… now has 186 3-point attempts this season which ties for the sixth most in a single season… Hrynko tied a career-high with nine assists which she has done three times… Seton Hall has dropped its last two games… bot games have been road games… is 1-7 in road games this season… DePaul has now won the last eight series meetings and improves to 8-1 in its series with Seton Hall.

http://www.depaulbluedemons.com/sports/w-baskbl/recaps/020613aaa.html

Dallas is the ninth largest city in the nation and the third largest in Texas. It’s population is around 1.3 million and the economy seems to be doing just fine in today’s world. The Dallas area is home to the Cowboys (football), Mavericks (basketball), Stars (hockey), and Texas Rangers (baseball), all of which are among the top competitors season after season. The Dallas climate is usually a humid, subtropical one, with hot summers and mild winters. Dallas is a great city and is pretty up to date on the fitness industry, as well. Below are the best gyms in and around the Dallas area: - Equinox: One of the best gyms in Dallas, as well as the rest of the nation. From booming personal training and fitness classes to top-of-the-line fitness equipment, if you are looking for a great place to exercise and meet new people, this gym is for you! - Lifetime Fitness: Lifetime Fitness has eight gyms in and around the Dallas area. Lifetime Fitness has the best of the best, accompanied by a helpful and friendly staff. If you have not exercised at one of these premier clubs, you need to do so as soon as possible. - The Texas Club: Located on main street in Dallas, this amazing facility offers two free personal training sessions when you first join. This club also offers basketball courts, an indoor running track, heated indoor pool, saunas, steam rooms, and whirlpools. Don’t pass this gym up! - Gold’s Gym: If you are serious about your workouts, Gold’s Gym is the place for you. Fitness is everything at Gold’s and the friendly staff will tell you the same!! September 8th, 2010

http://www.dietsinreview.com/diet_column/09/best-gyms-in-dallas/

The singer told GMTV that his group had got on with John & Edward when they met on last weekend's results show. Humes said: "They can definitely win it, of course. I mean the guys are great. We met everyone on Sunday obviously, and they were really cool guys, really nice guys actually, and I wish them the best of luck." Of their own return to the stage where they made their name a year ago, Humes added: "I tell you what, it's still scary up to this day to stand on that stage and face Simon Cowell, it really is. "But we enjoyed it because we went back as artists, which was really nice, and thankfully we had all the support of all the judges, so it was great." Earlier this month, mentor Louis Walsh said that he was "quietly confident" that John & Edward could emulate the success of his former charges JLS.

http://www.digitalspy.com/british-tv/s103/the-x-factor/news/a184989/jls-john--edward-can-win.html

When news happens get involved. Send your pictures, views and video to us by text and email Magpies' reserves on a high after back-to-back wins DORCHESTER RES 3 WIMBORNE RES 1 BOOSTED by a number of first-team faces, Dorchester Town Reserves recorded back-to-back wins in the Wyvern Premier League. No fewer than seven senior squad members turned out at the Greene King IPA Community Stadium as the Magpies ran out 3-1 winners against their Wimborne Town counterparts. Recent acquisition Arran Pugh captained the side, fit-again full-back Jake Smeeton made his first appearance since April while the likes of Nick Crittenden, Harrison Bell, Jamie Symes, Elliot Ward and Jon Garcia maintained their match-sharpness by gaining valuable minutes. But it was the reserve-team regulars who grabbed the headlines with Alex Godfey, Josh Tennant and Antony Carlile all on the mark for Dave Kiteley’s charges. The second-string boss said: “When they saw our line-up they must have thought crikey but full credit to Wimborne, they were a young side and they worked extremely hard and made life difficult for us. “But it was comfortable in the end and we created a lot of chances. I wasn’t going to criticise the lads for the chances we missed though, as we worked their keeper and he made some great saves from the likes of Nick, Jake, Josh and Alex. “The biggest thing was seeing people like Jake getting 90 minutes under their belt. “He is a bit rusty but he missed the whole of pre-season and it was his first competitive game since the end of last season so it will take two or three games for him to reach his usual fitness levels. “Arran also played and showed up very well. We lost Calvin Brooks to injury before the game so it was a good experience for Aston Butcher to play alongside someone of Arran’s ability. “Nick got 90 minutes as well and I could watch him all day as he oozes class and is a top pro. “Goals-wise it was good to see three of the reserve players get on the scoresheet. We only had four in the starting line-up and that included our goalkeeper Dan Floyd.” Good work from Crittenden down the right flank saw the flying winger whip in a superb cross that was fired home at the back post by Godfrey for the opening goal. Wimborne responded by restoring parity but back came the hosts and they regained their slender advantage prior to the break when Tennant grabbed his second goal in as many outings after charging down an attempted clearance. Chances came and went as the visiting gloveman did his level best to keep Wimborne in the game. But with 10 minutes remaining, the points were made safe when substitute Carlile controlled another Crittenden centre before turning and finding the back of the net. Dorchester Town Reserves go in search of a third successive victory when they entertain Salisbury City on Tuesday night. Magpies: Floyd, Bell, Smeeton, Butcher, Pugh, Symes, Crittenden, Ward (Gape 65), Tennant (Carlile 60), Godfrey, Garcia. Subs not used: Kimber, Taylor, Twyford.

http://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/sport/9952322.Magpies__reserves_on_a_high_after_back_to_back_wins/

Today is 31th anniversary of Reine Barkered our favorite Swedish athlete, it is an opportunity to come back to the year that has passed and ask him some questions about his season with Dynastar. With three podiums you finish second overall on the FWT this season only a few points of a new title of world champion. Your feel about this season, your performances but also your disappointments? R.B: I had a lot of fun this season, even though the mountains have been a little bit small (I like the big lines) I am very happy with my results but I little disappointed in my own skiing because I know I could have done a lot better, still its the little things every competitions that makes the difference so sometimes you can only ski and hope for the best. Your feeling about the Dynastar skis? R.B: There is no other brand that have the skis that i require to ski my very best, Stable but at the same time flexible so you can use them in any terrain. Dynastar have a long history of building the best skis and it really shows. An anecdote to share with us, during your Trips or your competitions? R.B: One day in Courmayeurwe where going for an inspection run next to our venue. 60 of the worlds best riders where let loose at the same time on an epic run with deep powder. It was amongst the coolest things I’ve seen when all dropped in sending cliffs to right and left virtually destroying the whole face, no crashes just super good skiing. Wish I had filmed it. “Words to Live By” R.B: Decide what to be, and go be it. Reine is 31 years old, and is one of the most respected riders in the world of freeride. Once again we can count on him for the next season to lead the FWT and regain his title of world champion.

http://www.dynastar.com/index.php?_lang=BE&_cnt=BE&alias=dynastar-news&sectionopts[6c334b2c2134c248e30d33fc1bb8023e][first]=150

Throw on the official on-field cap of your favorite MLB team in the New Era 59fifty MLB Authentic Cap. This hat features CoolBase technology to wick sweat away from the body. The official team logo is embroidered on the caps front with the official MLB logo embroidered on the caps rear. 100% polyester. Imported.

http://www.eastbay.com/product/model:81131/sku:70585151/new-era-59fifty-mlb-authentic-cap-mens/los-angeles-dodgers/blue/blue/?cm=brandnewera

Dorset break Wiltshire hearts Dorset brought the curtain down on their season in sensational fashion after engineering a remarkable four-win victory over Wiltshire in their final Minor Counties Championship match. Wiltshire dominated much of the contest at Dean Park in Bournemouth, but fell agonisingly short of a victory target of 242 on the final day, a result which earned Dorset fourth place in the Western Division and condemned the hosts to third-bottom. A Wiltshire victory looked the most likely outcome after they bowled Dorset out for just 127 in their first innings, thanks largely to Greg Lamb’s 4-44, which included a hat-trick, and 3-14 for James Hibberd. Lamb also starred with the bat, hitting a fine 113 as Wiltshire replied with 300 for nine declared to establish a 173-run lead. When Dorset slipped to 257 for nine on the second afternoon - leading by just 87 - their fate appeared sealed, but Nick Park followed up his first-innings 46 with a magnificent 219 - the highest score for the county - as he and David Kidner (54 not out) shared a record 10th-wicket stand of 157. Their astonishing alliance carried Dorset to 414, with Wes Durston taking 5-128 and Lamb and Josh Pickering sharing four of the remaining five wickets. Durston led Wiltshire’s pursuit, but he fell on the final morning and could only watch as they slumped to 171 for seven. James Hibberd and Tom Morton, who made 35, added a valuable 52 for the eighth wicket, and Pickering accompanied Hibberd for the addition of 14 runs to take Wiltshire to within five runs of victory. However, two wickets in the space of three balls proved fatal for Wiltshire, while Dorset could celebrate thanks to Tom Hicks’ haul of 6-82. Hibberd, who finished unbeaten on 35, later stood down as captain after a season in charge in order to concentrate on his own game.

http://www.ecb.co.uk/news/non-first-class/minor-counties/dorset-break-wiltshire-hearts,307411,EN.html?Pf=com.otherobjects.cms.model.structure.Folder-L-92

Top marks for Tufnell Former Middlesex and England spinner Phil Tufnell scored 10 out of 10 in the 'Play Hard, Play Fair' quiz on Test Match Special. Jonathan Agnew took great delight in offering scenarios to Tufnell, testing his knowledge of the Spirit of Cricket and Fair Play. Tufnell did admit that he did some of his learning in the committee room after he had transgressed the boundaries during his playing days. Tufnell will be presented with his 'Play Hard, Play Fair' certificate later today. A joint ECB, MCC and PCA initiative, launched on the first day of the Sri Lanka Test at Lord's by Andrew Strauss, the campaign is aimed at helping young players to know where the boundaries lie and not just the ones which determine where a four or six is scored. Independent cricket reporter Stephen Brenkley said: "In an admirable attempt to clean up the game, the MCC and ECB last week began to put their feet down". David Graveney, ECB National Performance Manager, added that the move was an "outstanding piece of work and a massive step in the right direction". MCC’s Head of Cricket John Stephenson said: “MCC is delighted to be working in partnership with the ECB to deliver this new initiative, which will help to ensure thousands of young people adopt the spirit of cricket principles of playing hard and fair." Ten Test match tickets for the India npower Test Match at Edgbaston are available to anyone under 15 years old who complete the quiz. Coaches, team managers and parents are all encouraged to try the quiz and pass on to their young charges. The competition can be found here.

http://www.ecb.co.uk/news/top-marks-for-tufnell,314466,EN.html

O'Brien omitted by Ireland Ireland have overlooked wicketkeeper-batsman Niall O’Brien for their tour of Kenya due to his participation in the inaugural Bangladesh Premier League. O’Brien, who was signed by Khulna Royal Bengal for $US80,000 at the recent BPL auctions, had offered to link up with the squad for the one-day internationals in Kenya before taking part in the World Twenty20 qualifier that follows in the United Arab Emirates. However, Cricket Ireland have decided that all members of the squad must be available for the entire tour, meaning O’Brien has been left out of a 15-man party. The same players, along with Andrew Poynter and James Shannon, have been named in Ireland’s World T20 qualifier squad, which must be trimmed to 14 by February 12. National coach Phil Simmons said: “There were difficult matters for the selectors to discuss regarding Niall O’Brien’s availability. “They took on board Niall’s offer to play in only the ODIs in Kenya, join the squad for part of the South Africa (training) camp, and then the ICC World T20 qualifier. However, the selectors remained consistent to their principle, regarding that all players must be available for all parts of the tour. Niall was not able to make himself available for the whole tour and therefore the selectors have decided not to select him for any part of the tour, including the World T20 qualifier. “We are only selecting for this tour and the next selection will be for the RSA Challenge ODI versus Australia in June; at that point they will consider all available players. “Niall has communicated that he still wishes to play for Ireland and the selectors will take that into consideration when they next meet.” Shannon and Max Sorensen are the only two players in the squads without international experience. Middlesex bowler Tim Murtagh, who is in the process of gaining Irish citizenship, could yet be added to the final World T20 Qualifier squad, should he receive his passport in time. The tour of Kenya comprises of a four-day Intercontinental Cup match, two World Cup qualifying ODIs as part of the ICC's 50-over league and three Twenty20 internationals. Ireland squad for tour of Kenya: Will Porterfield (Warwickshire, captain), Alex Cusack (Clontarf), George Dockrell (Somerset), Trent Johnston (Railway Union), Nigel Jones (CSN), Ed Joyce (Sussex), John Mooney (North County), Rory McCann (Instonians), Kevin O’Brien (Railway Union), Boyd Rankin (Warwickshire), Max Sorensen (The Hills), Paul Stirling (Middlesex), Albert van der Merwe (YMCA), Andrew White (Instonians), Gary Wilson (Surrey). *Albert van der Merwe will only play in the Intercontinental Cup match and Nigel Jones will join the squad from Feb 15 to take part in the ODIs and T20s. Ireland squad for training camp in South Africa and ICC World T20 Qualifier in the UAE: Will Porterfield (Warwickshire, captain), Alex Cusack (Clontarf), George Dockrell (Somerset), Trent Johnston (Railway Union), Nigel Jones (CSN), Ed Joyce (Sussex), John Mooney (North County), Rory McCann (Instonians), Kevin O’Brien (Railway Union), Andrew Poynter (Clontarf), Boyd Rankin (Warwickshire), James Shannon (Instonians), Max Sorensen (The Hills), Paul Stirling (Middlesex), Albert van der Merwe (YMCA), Andrew White (Instonians), Gary Wilson (Surrey).

http://www.ecb.co.uk/news/world/europe/obrien-omitted-by-ireland,316823,EN.html

As A Freshman (2012) 2012 Game-by-Game Statistics Earned Conference USA All-Freshman Team honors after turning in strong debut season ... Posted an 18-16 record with a 3.61 earned run average ... Finished the campaign ranked among the top three in C-USA in appearances (42/2nd), games started (31/T-3rd) and innings pitched (200.0/3rd) ... Tossed 17 complete games ... Established ECU rookie records in innings pitched and appearances ... Eighteen victories were good for fifth in the league and the third most by a freshman in program history ... Tossed a pair of shutouts, at Cal State Fullerton (3/6) and versus Marshall (4/29) ... Issued just 43 walks, an average of only 1.5 per contest ... Held opponents to a .298 batting average with two outs (81-for-272) and with the bases empty (127-for-426) ... Posted a 3.50 earned run average as a starter ... When working with a full count, allowed only seven hits in 36 opportunities (.194 batting average) ... Tallied her most strikeouts with an 0-2 count (22-of-63) ... In Conference USA action, went 8-7 with a 3.15 earned run average in 93.1 innings ... Stood fifth in the league in innings pitched and wins within conference games only ... During league starts, posted a 2.91 earned run average to go along with seven victories ... Excelled in home games, going 12-3 with a 2.04 ERA ... Held opponents to a .247 batting average inside the ECU Softball Stadium ... During the Pirates' 25 victories, compiled a 1.85 ERA ... Improved from the first half of the season to the second, going 8-10 with a 3.91 earned run average during the squad's first 27 games and turning in a 10-6 record and 3.25 ERA over the final 26 contests ... Tallied seven of the Pirates' eight victories in March ... Pitched complete games in final six starts of the regular season and posted a 5-1 record and 1.70 ERA during the span ... With a win over Canisius (2/10), became the first East Carolina freshman pitcher to record a victory in initial career appearance since Caitlin Wainright against Middle Tennessee on Feb. 7, 2009 ... Also was the first Pirate rookie hurler to win initial career start since Suzanne Riggs downed North Florida on March 12, 2008 ... Recorded first career strikeout versus Canisius (2/10), retiring Jen Consaul to open the third inning ... Turned in first career complete game in victory over UNCG (2/17) ... Became the first ECU freshman pitcher to go 3-0 in first three career starts since Britt Howell in 2008 ... Tossed first career shutout at Cal State Fullerton (3/6), surrendering just one hit on an infield single ... Threw a career-high 9.1 innings at Tulsa (3/17) and struck out a personal-best five batters ... Earned all three victories over UTEP (3/24-25) to become the first Pirate to win all three games of a C-USA series since Toni Paisley topped UCF three times April 2 and 3, 2010 ... In the last seven seasons, joined UAB's Leigh Streetman, who topped Marshall on May 7 and 8, 2011, as the only league freshmen to win all three contests of a C-USA series ... Threw first conference shutout in finale versus Marshall (4/29). D.H. Conley High School A four-year letterwinner who was a four-time N.C. Softball Coaches Association 3A All-State selection ... Also earned a trio of all-district and All-3A Coastal Conference selections ... Capped career by leading D.H. Conley to its first state championship title ... Ended senior campaign with a 0.69 earned run average, 188 strikeouts, 71 hits allowed and 11 earned runs surrendered in 142 2/3 innings ... Threw seven solo shutouts and combined in 10 others ... Named the North Carolina 3A-East Pitcher-of-the-Year, 3A-District 1 Pitcher-of-the-Year and The Daily Reflector Pitcher-of-the-Year as a senior after earning the North Carolina 3A-District 1 Pitcher-of-the-Year honor as a sophomore ... At the 2011 state championship series, earned most valuable player honors after recording three victories and 25 strikeouts in 27 innings ... During junior year, posted a 19-4 record with 23 complete games and 12 shutouts while striking out 147 ... Enhanced softball experience by playing for numerous travel teams throughout the country including the Hawai'i Pearls, Hawai'i Guava Jam, Maryland's Wagners Gold and the Carolina Wildcats ... Helped the Pearls to a 17th-place finish at the prestigious Fireworks Tournament in Aurora, Colo., and the Wildcats to 25th place at the ASA 18U Nationals during the summer of 2010 ... Also a standout in the classroom who was a member of the Beta Club, National Honor Society and National Society of High School Scholars ... Included in the Who's Who Among American High School Studentsand served as the student body vice president after being elected the president of her junior class. Personal Intended academic major is business ... Daughter of Cal and Kay Christian ... Has a younger brother, Conner ... Father is an associate professor of accounting in ECU's College of Business.

http://www.ecupirates.com/sports/w-softbl/mtt/christian_sarah00.html

The Rugby Championship Meyer set to keep the faith August 27, 2012 Springboks coach Heyneke Meyer is unikely to make widespread changes ahead of his side's clash with Australia on September 8 © Getty Images South Africa coach Heyneke Meyer is set to resist the urge to shake up his side following their 16-16 draw with Argentina in their Rugby Championship clash on Saturday. The Boks battled back from a 13-3 half-time deficit to snatch a share of spoils at the Estadio Malvinas Argentinas in Mendoza and evade a first-ever defeat at the hands of the Pumas. Meyer has since accepted that his side's performance was "not acceptable" and while acknowledging the performance of their rivals, admitted that a lack of experience cost the visitors. With the likes of John Smit, Victor Matfield and Jaque Fourie having retired and others such as Fourie du Preez, Bakkies Botha, Danie Rossouw and Gurtho Steenkamp all ineligible as they are playing overseas, Meyer saw his resources drained yet further ahead of their latest outing due to injuries to Schalk Burger, Bismarck du Plessis, Pierre Spies and JP Pietersen. The injury cloud is not going to lift before Meyer announces his latest squad for the forthcoming matches against Australia and New Zealand but he is still not going to make a raft of changes. "It's easy to say throw people out and pick new ones, but that's not coaching, that's picking," he told reporters on his return to South Africa. "I've been in this position a few times as a coach and the easiest thing is just to cut players, but that won't move you forward. We've already lost a lot of leadership and then you'd be throwing out what little experience you've got." Meyer also agreed that his side must raise their game against Australia in Perth (September 8) and New Zealand in Dunedin (September 15) if they are to challenge for the southern hemisphere crown. "The next two games will be even tougher and we have to improve," he said. "I know we can do it, but the only way the side will improve is by coaching them, improving their technique and mental strength." © ESPN EMEA Ltd "People on the outside think unfounded thoughts on Toulon." Tom Hamilton talks to RCT lock Nick Kennedy ahead of Saturday's Heineken Cup final against Clermont Will Genia should lead the Wallabies against the Lions, Joe Tomane to win the final wing spot and Israel Folau at fullback, writes Greg Growden "Has there ever been such a large disconnect between France's club teams and the international side?" Ian Moriarty weighs up the state of French rugby "By carrying a Great Britain label to the Antipodes, and getting beaten by the Kiwis, they established a tradition which has lasted to this day." Huw Richards rewinds to 1888

http://www.espnscrum.com/the-rugby-championship/rugby/story/168933.html?CMP=OTC-RSS

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From baseball leagues to basketball teams, eteamz is the leading sports website and software provider for teams and leagues. Join the millions of sports organizations that use our software tools and create your free website today. League and team organizers shouldn't have to be a computer whiz to create a sports website. If you know your way around a keyboard and mouse, you can make a team or league website for free in less than an hour. Choose from professionally-designed templates and add your logos, fonts, colors, and more. You'll look like a sports website design genius and your fans, players, and league parents will be impressed every time they visit your site. - Pick from professionally-designed sports website templates - Make it your own by adding league or team logos - Choose colors, borders, and fonts - Track the number of website visitors (and display it proudly) - Save and preview updates before making it live on the web+ - Personalize your website and email addresses+ Think about how you manage your organization now - you might have a few binders in the office, folders in the car, and the occasional Excel document on the desktop. It can be hard to keep your season calendar organized if done by hand. With sports scheduling tools from eteamz, you can manage dates, times, and locations for games, practices, team meetings, and more. This helps you stay organized and offers a way for your members to view the calendar on your sports website. - Create and organize a detailed practice and game calendar - Update schedule changes and publish them to your site - Build and post tournaments with Tournament Brackets+ - Print calendars right from your league or team website+ - Import and export events, practices, games, and more+ Communicating with your league, teams, players, and fans has never been easier than with sports software from eteamz. On your league or team website, post news articles, game recaps, and updates – we all know how much players love their press clippings. Or, create organized email lists to send updates to the right people. 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After creating your website, everything can be organized and collected automatically. - Create & order custom awards, gear, and apparel - Upload and manage rosters - Manage your season's calendar - Receive free & secure sports website hosting - Post individual player statistics+ - Create up to 16 additional website pages on your league website+ - Offer an unlimited amount of site memberships+ - Archive last season and create a new one+ - Offer online registration & fee collection* *This feature is available as an add-on and can be used with basic and PLUS sites. Website management doesn't have to be a scary word for sports organization managers anymore. There's nothing to download or learn. Just login to the web-based software and you’ll build and update a free sports website in no time. It's easy for you and offers a great way for your community to keep up with organizations' updates, news, schedules, and more. - Use web-based software to build and manage your website - Make a functional website without technical knowledge - Add unlimited site memberships - Utilize safe & secure sports website hosting - Manage your sports programs from season to season - Choose from 75+ professionally-designed website templates+ - Build additional web pages to tell your story+ League organizers face stacks of paper and hours of data entry with paper-based registration. All of that can go away with online registration and fee collection from eteamz and Active Network, Sports. Simply point people to your website where a registration button will live. From there, your customized registration form is just a click away for people to sign-up whenever is convenient. This saves time for you and makes it easier for players to register for your sports league. - Offer online registration & fee collection for your league - Add a registration button for parents to click on your sports website - Collect all payments and contact information securely - View information in real-time with a secure online system - Save time managing your program's registration process - Make it easier for players and parents to sign-up online basic and PLUS sites. Learn more about Online Registration. Athletes love gear and team and league organizers love successful fundraisers. For those two things, eteamz has tools to help you raise money and sell gear online. At your online team store, you can sell customized sweatshirts, t-shirts, banners, and more. After that, add an online fundraising page and start collecting donations securely through your sports league and team websites. This is a great way to generate buzz and cash for all of your programs. - Sell custom apparel on your website - Offer your members up to 85% discounts on over 650 magazines - Gain up to 40% profit for your sports programs - Give away free movie tickets and cash prizes to your members - Collect donations securely online - Use the system with no upfront costs, paperwork, or shipping costs - Your online store is integrated in to your eteamz website - Combine with offline, traditional fundraisers - Want a free fundraising guide? Request one here Frequently Asked Questions Who is eteamz for? Coaches, league administrators, parents, and anybody else who's responsible for managing a youth or adult sports team, league or group. What are the system requirements for eteamz? eteamz is 100% web-based, no software needed. All you need is a computer with an internet connection. Is our team info private? Absolutely! All of your data is 100% private and password-protected. Read our Privacy and Data Collection Policy for more Information. View Upgrade Pricing eteamz is the website provider to more national sports organizations choose to help their teams build cutting edge websites quickly and easily.

http://www.eteamz.com/

|News » Archives| DOUBLE VISION: Evans' double-double lands her co-Atlantic Sun Player of the Week honors Monday, December 22, 2008 Evans posted a monstrous game over the Owls, as she finished with 19 points, 16 rebounds and five assists in the Lady Bucs' lone contest last week. The versatile player tied her career high in rebounds and set a season high in assists, while playing the entire 45 minutes inside the The Sport Management major has posted back-to-back 16-rebound games and is the only player in the conference to be averaging a double-double. Evans - who leads the team in scoring (14.6) and rebounding (10.1) - also ranks third in scoring and first in rebounding amongst A-Sun players. The Evans earned the weekly honor for the fourth time in her career, marking the highest total of any active league player. Joining Evans with A-Sun Player of the Week honors was ETSU concludes a season-long five-game road trip on Sunday, Dec. 28, when the Lady Bucs travel to The Atlantic Sun Conference is an 11-member league committed to Building Winners for Life, with a focus on academic and athletic integrity and a balance between the two for the student-athlete, and maintaining a high level of sportsmanship. Headquartered in For more information on Lady Buccaneer basketball, visit www.ETSUBucs.com.

http://www.etsubucs.com/news/archives/2008-09/5489/double-vision-evans-double-double-lands-her-co-atlantic-sun-player-of-the-week-honors/

One of the most exciting Quarterfinal Playoffs clashes in recent history will be decided one way or another on Wednesday when CSKA Moscow hosts Olympiacos Piraeus in deciding Game 3 in the Russian capital. Olympiacos stunned CSKA in Game 1 74-76 on Lynn Greer’s buzzer-beating jump shot, but CSKA evened the score in Game 2 in Athens as the trio of Matjaz Smodis, Trajan Langdon and Ramunas Siskauskas shined in a 73-83 victory. Now both teams will pull out all the stops and try to put their best foot forward to clinch a spot at next month’s Final Four in Madrid. History favors CSKA, as not only have head coach Ettore Messina’s charges been to a record five consecutive Final Fours, but never before had the Russian champs lost a playoff game at home and the odds of that happening twice in eight days are slim. Furthermore, never before has a Euroleague Basketball series seen all the games go to the visiting team. On the other hand, the Reds have reasons for optimism. Head coach Panagiotis Giannakis’s charges have shown plenty of mental toughness recently, including winning their last three road games at some tough arenas. Additionally, Olympiacos forward Qyntel Woods has been hot lately on both ends of the floor and his Game 1 defensive showing against reigning Euroleague MVP Theo Papaloukas was a main reason for the outcome of that contest. However the Reds, who have battled injuries all season long, will be shorthanded again as Arvydas Macijauskas and Kostas Vasileadis are out against CSKA. A key statistic in the series thus far has been three-point shooting. CSKA was below its average with just 36.8% in its Game 1 loss, but made 54.5% in the Game 2 win. Meanwhile Olympiacos shot 50% from downtown in Moscow, but 37.5% in Athens. If any of the many sharpshooters on either side heats up in Game 3, it could prove to be a major factor between these defensive minded sides. CSKA will look to its experience to help get through this challenge as it can boast a roster with eight players that won the Euroleague title with the club two years ago. Olympiacos will look to Greer to lead the team, with Woods, Rod Blakney and reserves Georgios Printezis and Ioannis Bouroussis asked to rise to the occasion. All signs point to a tense and low-scoring defensive battle, however with so many excellent offensive players on the floor, one man’s brilliance can make the difference in a series whose outcome will shape two teams’ entire season. Tuesday, April 08, 2008

http://www.euroleague.net/main/results/showgame?clubcode=PAN&gamecode=227&pcode=JRF&seasoncode=E2007

Top 16-bound Barcelona was a little too much for already-eliminated Alba, beating the German champs on the road in Berlin, 66-80, in the last regular season game for both teams. The victory came with a prize for Barcelona: Despite finishing 11-3, Barcelona placed second in Group A due to a tiebreak loss with Benetton. Nonetheless, Wednesday's victory assured Barca the best second-place record in the regular season, meaning it will head one of the four Top 16 groups to be drawn on Saturday. Barcelona's dominance inside already supplied a basis for the victory in the first half on Wednesday against an Alba frontcourt that missed injured rebounder Quadre Lollis. Barcelona was led in scoring by Dejan Bodiroga with 21 points and Juan Carlos Navarro with 16. Anderson Varejao sparked the defensive effort with 12 rebounds and 5 of Barcelona's 9 blocked shots. Alba, which could not finish any better than seventh, win or lose, saw its record settle at 4-10. The Berliners got a huge performance from center Jovo Stanojevic, who finished with 30 points and 10 rebounds, while DeJuan Collins chipped in 14 points and 6 assists. The game started slow, with both teams immediately putting much emphasis on defense and looking on offense for the easy baskets inside. Barcelona led 6-8 after 5 minutes when outside shooting started to make a huge difference: Collins and Stefano Garris missed their three-pointers, while Sarunas Jasikevicius popped 2 in a row and Gregor Fucka another, boosting Barca to an 8-19 lead in just the next 2 minutes. With both coaches inserting their bench players now, Alba at the end of the first quarter forced some turnovers from Barcelona, but Stanojevic missed 2 of 4 free throws that would have reduced Barcelona's lead below 14-22 at the end of 10 minutes. In the second quarter, Alba kept on missing shots, even many easy ones, which gave local product Patrick Femerling and Bodiroga the opportunity to put Barcelona further ahead at 14-28. Barcelona now began to build a frightening dominance under the boards with Roberto Dueñas intimidating Alba's undermanned front line and Varejao grabbing lots of offensive rebounds. Alba was missing Lollis badly and did not have much to throw against Barcelona's huge frontcourt except Stanojevic, who led his team into halftime with 13 points. He got little scoring help at all from Alba's other players, however, as the hosts managed to make only 31 percent of their shots from the field in 20 minutes. The result was an already-dominant 26-45 lead for Barcelona, which already had 10 points from Bodiroga and 9 from Dueñas. Alba came out of the break with some better shots by Garris and Collins and quick fingers on defense, which left Barcelona scoring only 2 points during 5 minutes but could only diminish the deficit to 35-47. Barcelona did not like Alba's quick tempo, but got some relief in the form of 2 three-pointers, from Navarro and Rodrigo De la Fuente, that pushed the lead up to 37-53. Alba was looking quicker on the boards, too, but continued to miss enough open shots to lag far behind. Collins finally hit Alba's first triple of the game and Stanojevic cut Barcelona's lead down to 11 points, 45-54. After Navarro and Femerling added baskets for Barca, Stanojevic scored the last points of the quarter, but the visitors' 11-point margin still held 47-58. In the final quarter, Alba continued to rely successfully on Stanojevic, just as Barcelona did on Bodiroga, who drew the fifth foul on Garris. Bodiroga wanted to decide the game quickly, but missed twice against Collins in attempt to increase what was a 54-66 lead. Alba fought hard, but the clock was against the Berliners. When Navarro drilled 2 baskets for 61-75, the outcome was clear. Barcelona's future looked even better, but Alba would have to wait for another year. Wednesday, February 12, 2003

http://www.euroleague.net/main/results/showgame?phasetypecode=TS&clubcode=MAD&gamecode=157&pcode=ADD&gamenumber=16&seasoncode=E2002

Evergreen's defensive play earns team a win in first home game November 16, 2007 OLYMPIA, Wash. - The Geoducks will go for another win tomorrow night when they host Whitman College Saturday at 7:30 PM. Evergreen won theirseason home opener 87-49 over Pacific University (Ore) tonight in the Green House. Four players scored in the double digits for the Geoducks. Sophomore Nathan Menefee led the team with 16 points followed by Marcus Whittaker and Jose Feliciano with 12 each. David Howard added 10. Pacific was led by Garold Howe with 13 points. Howe recorded 3 steals in the fast paced game that saw 48 combined turnovers by both teams. Evergreen had 21 turnovers to Pacific's 27. The boxers had 18 of those turnovers happen in the second period. p> Evergreen's Michael Ward had 3 steals as the Geoducks snagged the ball eleven times from Pacific players. The defensive play earned praise by the Evergreen coaching staff. "That was totally awesome basketball!" exclaimed assistant coach Leonard Barnes. "While we had too many turnovers in the first period, our second half was great. They (Evergreen) really fed off the intensity of our defensive play".

http://www.evergreen.edu/athletics/mensbasketball/releases/2007-08/11162007.htm

Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson made some controversial comments about the NFL labor situation in an interview with Doug Farrar of Yahoo's Shutdown Corner . The interview was conducted just before the NFLPA decertified. "It's modern-day slavery, you know? People kind of laugh at that, but there are people working at regular jobs who get treated the same way, too. With all the money," Peterson continued. "The owners are trying to get a different percentage, and bring in more money." Farrar took out the quote shortly after publishing. He tweeted that he wanted to give Peterson an opportunity to explain. Farrar described the comment as "a real misstep." When asked about the owners not showing their financial information, Peterson suggested that they are hiding something. "Well, show us.' We want more information, and they want to bull****, going around, saying this and that, just open it up and give us the information we want. If they have nothing to hide, just give us the information ," the 25-year-old said. "Why not? Obviously, there's a lot to hide -- these guys are professionals, and they're maximizing what they do." Full article here

http://www.extremeskins.com/showthread.php?345277-Yahoo-Sports-Adrian-Peterson-NFL-is-like-quot-Modern-day-slavery-quot&p=8202894&viewfull=1

More sadass bull****. <pics at link--story still developing >ATLANTA - Most of the crowd leaving the Georgia Dome following the Falcons' 28-24 loss to the 49ers left calmly, contemplating what might have been. But in at least one instance, a dispute between a Falcons fan and a 49ers fan turned violent. According to WSB-TV reporter Rachel Stockman, witnesses reported that a Falcons fan punched a 49er fan, who in turn pulled a knife and either cut or stabbed the Falcons fan in the neck. Details such as the exact individuals involved in the incident and the victim's condition are not yet known. The victim was taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital. More details as they become available.

http://www.extremeskins.com/showthread.php?379026-Yahoo-Sports-Falcons-fan-stabbed-in-throat-by-49ers-fan-outside-Georgia-Dome-after-loss&p=9406169&viewfull=1

May 15th (F1plus Team).- An now the Formula 1 goes to the “Iberian Peninsula” for The Spanish Grand Prix. Most of the teams will keep bringing their improvements and developments to their cars, and Force India, will also try to put theirs into action. Adrian Sutil at Istanbul Park The team had planned for a new wing for Turkey, but the wet conditions did not provide the best opportunity to analyse that addition, so the team decided not to use it and leave for a another race. There’s a possibility that to the new package will be put into practice for this upcoming race at Catalunya, but it might be delayed to Monaco. The team seems to be pretty confident that the overall upgrade will give them the edge and become more of a threat to the big teams as well as a chance to officially lead the middle pack teams. “When our new aerodynamic developments are in place, I’m confident we can take a step forward in terms of performance.” Vijay Mallya, the team’s Principal, added. FORCE INDIA drivers and the Circuit of Catalunya. Adrian Sutil Q&A Which part of the lap is most challenging? The first three corners are quite difficult. It’s a quick complex and it’s important to get turn one right to have the correct line through the next couple of corners. In qualifying trim, turn three could be taken flat. What's the secret to setting a quick laptime? The first and second sectors are high-speed and you need to have the right aero balance. But the final part of the lap is quite slow and the mechanical set-up is more important. The difficult thing is to find the golden middle. Overtaking has always been difficult at Barcelona – will that change this year? Yes, I think we should see some overtaking. There is a long straight and tyre degradation will be high. I’m sure the race will be a bit different to what we have seen in previous years. Paul Di Resta shares his impressions about the upcoming Race. I’m really looking forward to this weekend because I probably know Barcelona better than any other track on the calendar. We did two tests there in the winter and I had four days in the car so I already feel quite well prepared. In fact, it’s a track that all the drivers know like the back of their hand and the teams have so much data already. It’s usually a race where all the teams bring upgrades so we will need to take a step forward if we want to stay in the mix. We evaluated a new front wing in Istanbul and we hope to have more steps coming through in the near future. The team has been working hard on this new concept and everybody is quite upbeat about its race introduction, so that’s something to look forward to. The aim for the weekend is to hopefully get back in the points. We’ve been pretty close to the top ten in all the races so far this season, so hopefully we can stay in the hunt.

http://www.f1plus.com/en/news/item/339-force-india-hungry-for-points

35 Steps All Athletes Can Take to Win an Athletic Scholarship June 16, 2011 Recruits are always wondering what they can to do improve their recruiting process. Here are 35 steps that ALL recruits can take to get one step closer to an athletic scholarship opportunity. (In no particular order) 1. Be aggressive. Don’t contact a coach one time and give up if you don’t hear back. Email a coach and wait a few weeks. If you don’t hear back from them in 3-4 weeks, try calling. If you get a voicemail, leave a message and also send an email. Reach out up to 3 different times and if a coach doesn’t respond after those attempts, then move on from that school. 2. Bring up visiting a school to that coach. Don’t wait for them to bring it up to you. 3. Use all the help you can get. Talk to your high school and club coaches and outside sources. They can help you with any connections and relationships they might have. Most parents do not have a network of college coaches…but trusted sources might. 4. Don’t rely too much on email. A personalized note or handwritten letter could go a long way towards separating you from other recruits. 5. Give more than just 1 word answers to coaches – show them your personality! 6. When visiting a school, remember that the current players are reporting back to the coaches so be cautious of what you say and how you handle yourself. Also, take advantage of the opportunity and ask them about the coach, school, program etc. Why did they choose this school over others? 7. The athlete should email a coach his/her information before just calling a coach. Definitely a good thing for them to be calling the coaches and being proactive but don’t just cold call coaches – they need to have some information on you before giving them a call. 8. Coaches are recruiting you – not your parents. Be sure to manage all of the communications. 9. College coaches talk to one another – maintain respectful and professional communication with all coaches. 10. College coaches want to see Varsity level film – this helps them create a better evaluation based on the level of play. 11. Coaches don’t want music and all of the fluff that is on most highlight videos. 12. Make sure that you have an appropriate voicemail greeting and email address to give to coaches – you don’t want to give coaches an email like [email protected] or have music playing for 3 minutes on your voicemail greeting. 13. Make sure you have an appropriate photo on your scouting report. Coaches don’t need to see you taking a picture of yourself in the mirror. 14. You should contact a coach before any visit to a school. 15. You should contact a coach before and after going to a camp to ensure an evaluation. 16. Take advantage of the calling rules. Coaches cannot call you or return your phone calls, and you will get VMs quite frequently—use this to your advantage. You may get a lot of voicemails, but leave a message. When you leave the message, tell them exactly when YOU will call back. This will do two things for you: 1) Better chance of getting on the phone with the coach. 2) Good idea of where you are on the recruiting board. (if you are high, you better believe the coach will be at his desk when you call in again). 17. Do not wait for a coach to contact you…initiate the contact. 18. When you open an email from a coach, make sure you respond within 12-24 hours. College coaches can track and see when you’ve opened the email, so if you do not respond for a week or two, you will not be taken serious. 19. Talk to some older athletes who have “been there”. It helps so much to learn from athletes about what playing in college at different levels is actually like. Athletes are shocked sometimes when they show up for D1 programs and were not aware of how much it actually entailed. 20. Ask the coach the tough questions about where you fit in. Just because he throws a little money your way does not mean he expects you to come in and start as a freshman! You need to know how you compare to other players in your recruiting class and what the coach is expecting to recruit in upcoming years, especially if a priority is playing time. 21. Learn how the Financial Aid process works and estimate your EFC. 22. Talk with Financial Aid offices at each school you are in contact with. Your goal should be to receive as much aid (athletic or otherwise) to help offset the cost of attending college. 23. You should research at least 4 schools a month. 24. You should fill out on-line questionnaires at schools you are interested in. 25. Start thinking about these topics when it comes to schools, size, type, location, distance from home, cost, student population, majors, requirements, athletics and events, activities, special programs and your gut feeling. 26. Learn about the NCAA contact rules. 27. Learn about the NCAA Eligibility Center. 28. Understand what different associations have to offer you: NCAA, NAIA, NJCAA, NCCAA, CCCAA, NWAACC. 29. Get an evaluation from a trusted source before you spend time targeting the wrong schools. 30. Ask coaches what their recruiting timeline is. 31. Ask where you stand on a coach’s list. 32. Ask if the coach can waive your application fee. 33. Learn how to get over your nerves when speaking with coaches. Remember, they want to hear from you and you have to separate yourself from thousands of other student-athletes around the country. 34. Prioritize your time. A college coach needs student-athletes who can balance their schedule NOW. If you can’t do it now, how will you do it in college? 35. Visit local colleges to get a feel for what a campus is like…it is cheap and helpful! Join the NCSA Athletic Recruiting Network by building a free Recruiting Profile to help you connect with college coaches click here!

http://www.fastweb.com/student-news/articles/3166-35-steps-all-athletes-can-take-to-win-an-athletic-scholarship

A Phillip Cocu header paved the way for PSV Eindhoven to log their place in the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League at the expense of Schalke 04. In the night's other action, Scottish side Rangers also stamped a place in the next round despite drawing 1-1 with Inter Milan. Everything was to play for in Group E were AC Milan and Schalke 04 had started the evening level at the top on eight points. The two sides met in a nerve-shredding game in San Siro. Before the game the Italians were in pole position on goal difference. Milan's Andrea Pirlo opened the scoring on 42 minutes but Christian Poulsen pulled a goal back for Schalke two minutes later to guarantee a tense second half. Brazil international Kaka registered twice within eight minutes before the hour to put Milan in front again but Schalke responded immediately with Lincoln pulling a goal back to ensure a dramatic finish. Milan stood their ground however and will go into the first drum for Friday's knock-out round draw Yet Schalke's misfortunes opened the door for PSV, who leapfrogged them into second place in the group with a 2-0 win at home to Fenerbache. Jefferson Farfan followed Cocu's 14th minute header by slotting the winner on 85 minutes to see the Dutch side finish just a point behind Milan on 10 points and resign Schalke to the UEFA Cup. Inter Milan had made sure of top place well before tonight's 1-1 draw with Rangers. But the result meant that the Scottish side claimed runners-up slot in Group H as Porto and Artmedia failed to find the net in their meeting in Bratislava. Artmedia, who finish in third go into the UEFA Cup while 2004 winners Porto are eliminated. Liverpool held Chelsea to a goalless draw at Stamford Bridge to finish top of Group G. Neither side were able to find the target in a highly tactical match that characterised a battle of wits between the two coaches Jose Mourinho and Rafael Benitez, who cancelled each other out with a series of strategic and psychological moves. The title holders claim top spot with Chelsea finishing second just one point behind. Real Betis lost 1-0 at home to Anderlecht but progress to the UEFA Cup finishing third in the rankings on seven points. Rankings in Group F had already been settled prior to Real Madrid's visit to Olympiacos. Olympique Lyon claimed the champions spot last month with a draw in the Spanish capital and consolidated their status as leaders with a 2-1 victory over Rosenborg. Madrid went into the game just two days after the dismissal of coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo. Caretaker coach Juan Manuel Lopez Caro was unable to celebrate his opening game in charge with a win however. The Spanish side did take an early lead thorugh Sergio Ramos whose header brought up his first goal for his club. But the Greek side pulled a goal back on 50 minutes through a blistering Erol Bulut volley and claimed victory with three minutes of normal time remaining as Rivaldo struck home the winner. Lyon top the group with 16 points while Madrid occupy second place six points behind and Rosenborg, have the satisfaction of entering the UEFA Cup.

http://www.fifa.com/tournaments/archive/clubworldcup/japan2005/news/newsid=101787/index.html

When he took over as Mexico coach in the middle of Mexico’s CONCACAF qualifying campaign, Javier Aguirre knew that the road to South Africa would be paved with difficulties and challenges. The priority was to turn around El Tri’s stuttering qualifying campaign, but another issue, more subtle but no less pressing, was at the forefront of the coach’s thoughts: how to bring together two generations of Mexican football in the same team. To the delight of fans all over Mexico, Aguirre’s efforts brought instant results and Los Aztecas’ performance so far in South Africa have shown that their blend of raw youth and seasoned campaigners can, on its day, be irresistible. In fact, the Mexicans’ unity and team spirit has been readily evident in both of their games so far. A hard-fought draw with hosts South Africa in the tournament’s Opening Match was followed by a 2-0 victory over 1998 world champions France, leaving Aguirre’s men in a strong position in Group A. And as strikers Guillermo Franco and Javier Hernandez, two men competing for the same position in the side, will readily admit, egos have given way to a sense of collective endeavour and a common goal. “The squad is very united and we’re all thinking in the same way. We want to do great things with the national team,” explained Franco. “Of course I would have loved to have scored but the important thing is for the team to get to where we want to go. And if I don’t score but we keep on winning, I will be very happy.” His fellow striker Hernandez may be 11 years younger, but still shares the same burning ambition to see his country make a real impression in South Africa. In fact, Franco is generous enough to predict a big future for Mexico’s latest striking sensation. “He (Hernandez) is the future of the national team, but he is good enough to make an impression now and he has already scored for us in the tournament. It’s no coincidence that one of the big European clubs has signed him and we’re all delighted for him,” explained Franco. With typical modesty, however, Chicharito Hernandez refuses to get carried away with his goal against France, a strike that sealed Mexico’s superiority in the game and went a long way to sealing a well-deserved victory. “It was a good goal but the most important thing was to get the win. We’re in a good position now to qualify and that’s exactly what we all want to do,” said the youngster. For midfielder Gerardo Torrado unity is everything and it certainly goes a long way to explaining why the Mexicans find themselves on the verge of the knockout stages. Torrado captained the side in their first game against South Africa before giving way to current skipper Rafa Marquez and, as he explained to FIFA.com, he believes his team’s powers of concentration and strong work ethic are the secrets of their success so far. “We’ve all put a lot of effort in on the pitch and we need to carry on like this, focused and ready. (Against France) we played well all over the pitch, at the back, in midfield and up front. The most important thing in that game was for us to stick together and work hard, and against Uruguay we have to do exactly that.” For his part, goalkeeper Oscar Perez is well aware of the importance of team spirit and appreciates coach Aguirre’s skill in bringing together youth and experience, attributing a change in mentality within the Mexico squad to the positive qualities brought by both the youngsters and the old stalwarts. “I don’t want to compare this team with teams from the past, but the truth is that we have some talented youngsters mixed with experienced guys, and they are all quality players. We’re a strong squad, and from that, we make a strong team. And we’ve shown in our last few games that we can beat top-quality opposition, first Italy and now France.” El Tri’s next objective will be their final group game against a strong Uruguay team. A draw will suffice but Aguirre and his team want more. And with their star apparently in the ascendancy, they will hope to show once again that their own mix of talent and hard work can be a winning combination.

http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/archive/southafrica2010/news/newsid=1254145/index.html

Pumas crowned Clausura champions Pumas UNAM were tonight crowned Mexican Clausura champions after beating Morelia 2-1. Having secured a 1-1 draw in the away leg on Thursday, Pumas were always favourites to edge the return and secure their seventh league title. And they did just that, although they needed a 77th-minute goal from Javier Cortes to get them over the line. Cortes grabbed the winner, however, with a brilliant solo goal, weaving past three defenders before crashing his shot into the net.

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/clubfootball/news/newsid=1439135.html

Olympiacos back in the hunt Olympiacos put themselves right back in the hunt for a spot in the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League with a second successive victory over Montpellier. After earning a stoppage-time win in France a fortnight ago, Olympiacos again left it late before snatching victory tonight with two goals in the last ten minutes from Leandro Greco and Kostas Mitroglou. Those strikes came after Younes Belhanda's second-half penalty for Montpelier had cancelled out Paulo Machado's early opener for the the Greek side. Olympiacos had lost their opening two matches in Group B but tonight's result lifts them onto six points, two points behind leaders Schalke and one adrift of second-placed Arsenal. Montpellier, meanwhile, remain on one point and are out of contention for a top-two berth. Olympiacos had fallen behind in each of their opening three games in Group B but needed just four minutes to take the lead tonight when Machado slotted into an empty net after Mitroglou's close-range effort had rebounded back off the post. Leonardo Jardim's side almost doubled their lead in the tenth minute but visiting goalkeeper Geoffrey Jourdren did well to deny Mitroglou. That was a big let-off for Montpellier but they soon started to settle and Souleymane Camara had two chances to draw the visitors level, heading the first just over the crossbar before also failing to hit the target with an ambitious effort. Montpellier could not get back on terms before the break but they came close again in the second half when substitute Jonathan Tinhan, just moments after replacing Anthony Mounier in the 62nd minute, fired in an effort that was saved by the feet of Roy Carroll. He was called into action again seconds later after Joris Marveaux was found unmarked in the area, but fortunately for the Northern Irish veteran the midfielder's header was straight at him. An equaliser looked on the cards though, and it duly arrived in the 65th minute when the French side won a penalty. Dimitrios Siovas pushed Camara in the area to concede the spot-kick and Belhanda made no mistake from 12 yards. For a while that looked set to earn Montpellier a point, but Olympiacos had other ideas and claimed the victory following a late flourish. Djamel Abdoun saw a long-range effort turned round the post by Jourdren in the 77th minute, but three minutes later Greco found the back of the net following a corner. Two minutes after that the game was sealed when Mitroglou slotted in Jose Holebas' cross to make it 3-1.

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/clubfootball/news/newsid=1847994.html?cid=rssfeed&att=

Samedov gets Russia call The 27-year-old had previously failed to make Advocaat's team but his solid performances this season have helped his team to second in the Russian league just two points behind Zenit St Petersburg. Russia, who play Slovakia on 7 October at Zilina and Andorra four days later in Moscow, top Group B with 17 points from eight matches, two points ahead of the Republic of Ireland, with Armenia and Slovakia sharing third on 14 points. Reacting to his selection Samedov said: "It's very pleasant and inspiring to receive a call from the national side's coach. And, of course, now I feel personal responsibility for the results of the upcoming qualifiers that will decide our group winner." Advocaat denied that he was pressured into selecting the veteran who had played for Russia's U-21s. "Public opinion was definitely not the reason for me to call Samedov into the national squad," Advocaat said. "His performance this season was the only real reason for me to call him. "Besides, in the upcoming matches we will have to play without Dmitry Torbinsky, who is sidelined with injury. I hope that Samedov, who performed well in the Russian league matches, will also perform at his top in the national side." Russia will also have to play without first-choice goalkeeper Igor Akinfeyev, who will be out for at least six months with a knee injury. Zenit keeper Vyacheslav Malafeyev, who played in the Group B qualifiers with Macedonia and Ireland, is also uncertain for the upcoming matches as he suffered a hip injury last weekend. Goalkeepers: Vyacheslav Malafeyev (Zenit St Petersburg), Anton Shunin (Dynamo Moscow) Defenders: Alexander Anyukov (Zenit St Petersburg), Alexei Berezursky, Vasily Berezutsky, Sergei Ignashevich (all CSKA Moscow), Roman Shishkin (Lokomotiv Moscow), Yury Zhirkov (Anzhi Makhachkala) Midfielders: Diniyar Bilyaletdinov (Everton/ENG), Denis Glushakov (Lokomotiv Moscow), Igor Denisov, Konstantin Zyryanov, Roman Shirokov (all Zenit St Petersburg), Alan Dzagoyev (CSKA Moscow), Alexander Samedov, Igor Semshov (both Dynamo Moscow) Forwards: Andrei Arshavin (Arsenal/ENG), Alexander Kerzhakov (Zenith St Petersburg), Roman Pavlyuchenkno (Tottenham/ENG), Pavel Pogrebnyak (Stuttgart/GER)

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/news/newsid=1515336.html

Senior Abe Souza won his 96th career match and fifth straight Friday night. April 22, 2011 URBANA, Ill. - In the first of two home matches to end the regular season, the 18th-ranked Illini (14-9, 6-3 Big Ten) were edged by No. 23 Minnesota (16-4, 7-2), 4-3, Friday afternoon at Atkins Tennis Center. The loss drops Illinois to fourth place in the Big Ten standings heading into the finale on Sunday, while Minnesota is now in sole possession of third place. In a battle of unbeatens, Ohio State defeated Indiana earlier today, 5-2, to secure first place, while Indiana drops to second. "We got great leadership from our guys in terms of what to do, but we didn't execute and stay calm when we needed to and just lost control of things out there," head coach Brad Dancer said. "We've got to rebound and play a good match against Wisconsin. I think everyone will certainly be gravely disappointed after this match." Sophomore KU Singh got the Illini on the board in singles with a swift two-set victory over Sebastian Gallego, 6-2, 6-1, before No. 98 senior Johnny Hamui gave the squad a 2-1 advantage with a defeat of Phillip Arndt, 6-3, 6-4. Fellow senior Abe Souza added the final win of the night, as he rallied back to top Julian Dehn, 2-6, 6-4, 6-1, to collect his fifth straight win, 22nd of the season and 96th of his career. He is now tied for 13th with Ryan Rowe for most career singles wins. The loss snaps a 20-match winning streak against the Gophers dating back to the 1995-96 season. Illinois returns to action Sunday to close out the regular season against Wisconsin at noon at Atkins Tennis Center. Seniors Johnny Hamui, Connor Roth and Abe Souza will be recognized in between doubles and singles for their achievements as members of the UI tennis team. #23 Minnesota 4, #18 Illinois 3 1. #100 Tobias Wernet (MINN) def. #10 Dennis Nevolo (ILL) 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 2. Rok Bonin (MINN) def. Roy Kalmanovich (ILL) 7-5, 7-6 (7-0) 3. KU Singh (ILL) def. Sebastian Gallego (MINN) 6-2, 6-1 4. #98 Johnny Hamui (ILL) def. Phillip Arndt (MINN) 6-3, 6-4 5. Brendan Ruddock (MINN) def. Stephen Hoh (ILL) 3-6, 6-2, 6-2 6. #74 Abe Souza (ILL) def. Julian Dehn (MINN) 2-6, 6-4, 6-1 1. #88 Phillip Arndt/Sebastian Gallego (MINN) def. Abe Souza/Stephen Hoh (ILL) 8-6 2. Rok Bonin/Julian Dehn (MINN) def. KU Singh/Johnny Hamui (ILL) 8-6 3. Brian Alden/Dennis Nevolo (ILL) def. Tobias Wernet/Brendan Ruddock (MINN) 8-6 Order of finish: Doubles (3,1,2); Singles (3,4,5,6,1,2)

http://www.fightingillini.com/sports/m-tennis/recaps/042211aaa.html

Due to the nature of the sport, concussions can occur in water polo. In the injury research study conducted in Athens during the Olympic Games comparing injury incidence in all team sports, it was found that water polo was one of the safest of the team sports with a relative low injury rate. Head injury was the most common injury suffered in water polo. As mentioned in the article by Dr. Drum, there are Guidelines available for the diagnosis and management of concussion (Prague Consensus on Concussion 2004). In answer to your question, any athlete who has symptoms of concussion should not be training or competing. All athletes with concussion symptoms should seek medical attention. Read the full article 'Water Polo: Doctor on Deck'

http://www.fina.org/H2O/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3021:one-of-the-players-on-my-water-polo-team-has-a-concussion-should-i-let-him-train-with-the-team&catid=357:faq&Itemid=1323

Recent FIS News Below you will find a listing of recent FIS News Find your news Sochi 2014 reveals official slogan “Hot.Cool.Yours.” 500 days before the Opening Ceremony of the 2014 Olympic Winter Games in Sochi, the Organising Committee has announced its official slogan: "Hot.Cool.Yours." The slogan is intended to be a universal solution combining innovation and dynamism. The first word "Hot." reflects the intensity of sporting battle and the passion of the spectators, and it emphasizes the host location of the Games, the southern resort city of Sochi. The word "Cool." references the timing of the Games, the fact that it is Winter Games, as well as alluding to traditional perceptions of Russia in the rest of the world. The last word "Yours." symbolizes personal involvement and shows that while the Games is a large-scale national project everybody can share in the victories and the sense of pride. In addition, the Organising Committee has announced the visual representation of the Olympic sports that will be staged in Sochi: 22 stylised pictograms of sports and Olympic disciplines will be used to guide visitors at the Olympic venues, and appear on tickets, events schedules and Sochi 2014 licensed merchandise. The new Sochi 2014 pictograms have been carefully created incorporating the look of the first Olympic Games in the history of Russia (Moscow 1980). Celebrations for 500 days countdown across Russia Various sports and music events were held in 17 Russian cities in conjunction with the 500-day milestone on 25th September. The culmination of the celebrations was an all-Russia national flashmob, the main participants of which were the Sochi 2014 volunteers drawn from the 26 Volunteer Centres, representing 14 of the country's regions. At the squares, stadiums and indoor sports complexes in their respective cities, more than 12,000 volunteers participated in the construction of giant Olympic pictograms. In addition to the flashmob, symbolic 500 meter relays representing the winter Olympic sports, were held in the nation’s cities, each dedicated to a different type of sport. In Sochi itself, the participants of the relay demonstrated Snowboarding, covering a set distance on skateboards and passing each other the relay baton. Dmitry Chernyshenko, President of the Sochi 2014 Organising Committee, said: “We have reached another significant milestone: there are now only 500 days remaining until the XXII Olympic Winter Games. In fact, we have entered the finishing straight in our preparations for this extremely important event in Russia's history. I'm glad that this celebration has managed to involve, both in terms of spectacle and the scale, the whole country into Games preparations."

http://www.fis-ski.com/de/neuigkeiten/fisnews/fisnews.html?URL1=/de/neuigkeiten/fisnews/fisnews&URL1=/uk/news/fisnews/&actu_id_444=6196&actu_page_444=3

The Libero - Joe Cole faces long wait for redemption Published: 18 Aug 2010 - 07:49:19 As far as debuts go, there have been better. Joe Cole never made a habit of playing for a whole 90 minutes when he was a Chelsea player, but that situation was largely beyond his control. It was never Cole's choice to be a bit-part player at Stamford Bridge, and one that always sat uncomfortably with him. At Liverpool however, he would be guaranteed what any self-respecting footballer requires as a bare minimum: a decent run in the first XI to prove himself. Yet after just half a Premier League game in a Liverpool shirt, he is once again facing a spell on the sidelines. And this time it has nothing to do with a managerial lack of faith or an unfortunate injury. This time there can only be one person to blame for the brevity of his latest cameo appearance - Joe Cole. With blood pumping and adrenalin coursing through his veins, Cole's desperation to make a good impression on his first league outing at Anfield resulted in an early bath with a mere 45 minutes under his belt. Cole completed just 32 Premier League games in his seven-year Chelsea career, although Sunday was the first time he has been sent off. 'He's not that type of player' was the general view from both sides - surprising, considering the poor unfortunate on the receiving end of the tackle was one of Arsene Wenger's 'oft-targeted' troops. Whatever Wenger or Roy Hodgson thought of it, the truth is that Cole's challenge was poor. Very poor. And it could easily have left fellow summer recruit Laurent Koscielny with a broken limb. As it was, despite being stretchered off, the Frenchman returned with nothing more than a bruised shin. In fact, it was Cole that came out of the incident worse off. Aside from a bruising of his own - of his ego - Cole will now have to wait for a further three games before he can even contemplate playing a full 90 minutes for his new club. That means Liverpool will be deprived of his full services for their opening four league games. The impact of his absence is yet to be seen, but four games can potentially bring 12 points. Liverpool have already dropped two - although admittedly, they did admirably without him at Anfield - but considering his status as a potential match-winner, a player who can turn one point into three with a clever pass or a fancy trick, he may well be sorely missed over the next weeks. Not least at Eastlands next weekend, when Roy Hodgson would love to be able to call on his new £90,000 a week man. Instead he will be twiddling his thumbs on the sidelines and while publicly the new Reds boss has backed the "devastated" midfielder, privately he cannot be pleased that such an experienced campaigner allowed the occasion to get the better of him. Nor, as it happens, can Hodgson have been pleased with Cole's performance prior to his dismissal. Despite playing in his preferred central position, in behind lone front man David Ngog, the England international was largely anonymous, far from mobile enough to worry the Arsenal defence and lacking the kind of incisiveness Liverpool crave. Of course, his Anfield career is still very much in its infancy and the merits of his signing should not and cannot be judged after just one game (or, more to the point, half a game). The debate over who got the better deal - Liverpool with Cole or Chelsea with Yossi Benayoun - may still be far from settled, but Cole's indiscretion has given the Chelsea camp an early advantage by default. And with the next three games set to be spent on the sidelines, Cole has a long wait before he can do anything to redress the balance. - FOOTBALL.CO.UK BLOGGER:the libero - Libero (noun): 1. Versatile, ball-playing defender given licence to roam. Expected to break up opposition attacks while instigating counters. Role patented by German legend Franz Beckenbauer. 2. Versatile weekly football columnist, aka journalist Mike Hytner, given licence to write what he likes. Expected to file every Wednesday. Not nearly as talented as his boyhood hero Der Kaiser. Previous Blog Posts - Five reasons to look forward to 2011 - Winter World Cup looms large - Tevez request tarnishes his reputation - Tottenham's entertainment rollercoaster runs risk of derailment - Time to dispel myth about United's squad - Supreme Madrid look the Real deal - Change by default can only benefit England - United no longer provide benchmark for City - Sneijder's form for club and country deserves Ballon d'Or - Disloyal Rooney set for ultimate betrayal - De Jong tackle must prompt FA action - Talk of terminal decline at Liverpool is premature - Consistency stands between Berbatov and greatness - Mourinho's Real Madrid are the real draw in Europe - Rooney finds his feet away from the headlines - Harry the wheeler-dealer saves deadline day - City's homegrown flavour bodes well for England - Joe Cole faces long wait for redemption - Natural conclusion to O'Neill's time at Villa - United running risk of falling behind - Man City are a striker away from the title - Why Arsenal should let Fabregas go - My World Cup A-Z - Villa has outgunned a star-studded cast - Germany are everything we are not - England prolong the agony - Time for World Cup 2010 to roar into life - France are in disarray - Capello was right to snub Walcott - Blackpool must break with tradition - The vilification of Kevin-Prince Boateng - Gary Neville deserved a place in the 30 - Spurs are back in the big time - Free-scoring Chelsea refuse to buckle - Dawson deserves his chance to upstage Terry - Avram Grant deserves his moment in the sun - Welcome back Newcastle United - Bayern exorcise ghosts to leave United in the mire - Rooney or bust for England - Revenge is sweet for bold Mourinho - Who needs Fabregas when you have Arshavin - Hypocrit Wenger adds amnesia to his myopia - Chelsea have moved on from Mourinho - Play-offs would cheapen the Champions League - Ruthless Capello delivers on his reputation - Capello left with no choice over Terry - Tepid transfer window reflects Prem malaise - Tevez makes his point to Ferguson - Chelsea and Barcelona will be kings of 2010

http://www.football.co.uk/blogs/5005/1130916.shtml

- Middlesbrough News - News Archive - League Table - Championship News Middlesbrough 0 Plymouth Argyle 1 Published : 02 Nov 2009 10:10:00 Middlesbrough 0 Plymouth Argyle 1 HIS first match in charge of Celtic ended in a 5-0 hammering, but the season still ended in title celebrations at Parkhead. It is little wonder then that Gordon Strachan is not too concerned after opening a new chapter of his career with another defeat. Had Gareth Southgate survived this long he would have been fearing the sack this morning after another day of the sort of home woe at the Riverside Stadium which ultimately cost him his job. But in Strachan, chairman Steve Gibsons choice to succeed Southgate, the majority of fans are satisfied with the appointment and optimistic the little Scotsman with a dry sense of humour can put the smiles back on their faces. Match one of his reign might have ended in a narrow loss courtesy of Jamie Mackies 64th minute winner, it might also have ended with Middlesbrough dropping below the Championships play-off zone in front of a crowd that rose above 21,000 again. But he needs to be given time to address the failings of the previous regime, having inherited a squad short on confidence on Teesside turf and one Strachan has already highlighted lacks the type of experience he would prefer. The fans will be more patient now, said Julio Arca, recalled to the starting line-up by his new manager, albeit in a less familiar role on the right. We lost and it was disappointing but the fans will give him time. He has only been here a week. They will have to be patient and give him time. They appreciate it takes time for a manager to put his stamp on things. He needs time to show what he can do with the players and see what they can do for him. Everyone needs time. We need time to get used to him and he will need time to get used to us. This week has been good because we have trained all week with him, we know what he is looking for. Hopefully things will work out. He wants to improve players, make them play better to get promotion. Strachan seemed relaxed beforehand, as he signed autographs from the dug-out and waved to every corner of the ground following his belated entrance out of the tunnel. By full-time he had every right to feel more aggrieved. Perhaps he might approach things differently if a similar result and performance is being repeated a few weeks into his tenure. But after his first match in charge he was complimentary towards his players rather than critical. He has been very calm with us, said Arca, with Boro three points short of second place and just as many above 12th in the Championship. The manager showed how much experience he has, he has been in the game for a long time. He told us what he wants us to do. At the end he was as disappointed as us, but he said we deserved to win the game. We have not seen the angry side of him yet. We know how he can be, if performances are really bad we will see the other side of him. But this time the lads performed really hard, we just didnt score, there was not too much wrong. Plymouth had started the day second from bottom and without a clean sheet all season, meaning expectations were high around the Riverside, with most expecting Strachan to open in perfect fashion. It soon became clear that was not going to be the case. Plymouth, who went close in the opening half when winger Alan Judge struck inches wide and goalkeeper Brad Jones denied Karl Duguid with a save low to his right, never looked like conceding. On the one occasion Middlesbrough broke them down, centre- back Shane Lowry made an exceptional block on six yards from Marvin Emnes after Adam Johnsons burst into the box from the left. With options limited, Strachan could not change things too much, but he did try to find more creativity by including Arca on the right flank. He also brought on Marcus Bent for his first piece of action since his two-month loan from Birmingham. Neither decision really paid off. Arca performed well after being asked to tuck in and support the forwards, but the tactic still failed to improve the tally of seven goals from the first eight matches at the Riverside. Everyone has been excited to be working with him and training really hard to be in the team. We didnt know the team until late on Friday, so everyone has had to push hard to be in the team all week, said Arca. Training has been a bit different, more intense. He has changed things, he likes us to play football more. Even at the end when we started to put balls in the box, he said we should have carried on playing football and waited for the right chance. Having already waved away a couple of decent appeals for a penalty, referee Mick Russell did do his best to help Middlesbrough claw themselves level after Mackies opener. He awarded a dubious spotkick when Sean St Ledger was barged to the floor when he ran into Kari Arnason after a neat one-two with Leroy Lita. Johnson, with nine goals to his name this season, side-footed the kick off the wrong side of the post. It meant that Plymouth were left to celebrate a one-goal victory that was handed to them on a plate by David Wheater just after the hour. A searching long ball from Gary Sawyer was not dealt with properly by Wheater, who was brushed aside with ease by the powerful Mackie. The former Exeter City striker then had the confidence to roll his shot underneath Jones to find the net. Everyone is disappointed after losing a game, but we will go to Crystal Palace next week and start again, said Arca. Its a long season, we have only played 15 games. Theres plenty to do. We just need to improve at home. We were looking forward to winning the game and we created enough chances to win, it was just a little mistake and they took advantage of that to score. Thats all they did. Sometimes you deserve to win and you dont, thats football. Match facts Goals: 0-1: Mackie (64, nipped in front of Wheater before applying low finish underneath Jones) Bookings: Fletcher (79, dissent) Referee: Mick Russell (Kidderminster) an awful game and even the penalty he handed to Boro was dodgy 3 Attendance: 21,141 Entertainment: MIDDLESBROUGH (4-4-2): 7 Jones: Made a couple of quality stops, preventing the scoreline from being worse. 5 Hoyte: Needs to offer far more going forward, particularly his final ball. 5 Wheater: Will be frustrated with the way he allowed Mackie in, having won everything until then. 7 St Ledger: Solid enough and has slotted in well since his move from Preston. 6 Pogatetz: A suspected fractured cheekbone cut short his return and now faces a long spell out 6 Arca: Did what was asked of him on the right, tucking inside to help the midfield and strikers. 5 ONeil: Has had better days this season and Strachan needs him to recapture his best. 6 Williams: Was the man asked to sit deeper and break things up, which he did. 7 JOHNSON: Always the most likely candidate to spark Boro into life. But hit an awful penalty. 6Lita: One of his most energetic displays to date, but failed to threaten 5Emnes: Should have scored first half, faded afterwards Subs: Bent (for Emnes 46): Would have preferred a stronger impact 5 Grounds (for Pogatetz 53): Comfortable return to action 5 Yeates (for Arca 87) (not used): Coyne (gk), McMahon, Digard, Franks. PLYMOUTH ARGYLE (4-4-2): Larrieu 6; Gray 6, LOWRY 8, Arnason 7, Sawyer 6; Judge 7 (Clark 81), Fletcher 6, Duguid 6, Folly 5; Gow 5 (Barnes 81), Mackie 7. Subs (not used): Letheran, Paterson, Timar, Sheridan, Mason. MAN OF THE MATCH SHANE Lowry a tower of strength at the heart of the Plymouth defence.

http://www.football.co.uk/middlesbrough/middlesbrough_0_plymouth_argyle_1_rss256165.shtml

McIlroy pens Shrimps deal 07 Nov 2008 - 07:45:48 Morecambe boss Sammy McIlroy has put pen to paper on a one-year extension to his existing contract. The 54-year-old former Northern Ireland manager has been in charge of the Shrimps for three years and will now remain in the Christie Park hot-seat until at least the end of the 2009-10 season. "This is a great club and we've had some wonderful times over the three years I've been here and, although we've had a difficult start this season, we can now plan for the future," McIlroy told the club's official website. "We're still establishing ourselves in the Football League but the club has great potential. "We're looking to move into a new ground and we have great supporters and a great board and we're all looking to progress together. "It's tough being a manager but I'm delighted that I have a chairman and a board of directors who have shown great confidence in me and my staff.''

http://www.football.co.uk/morecambe/mcilroy_pens_shrimps_deal_273412.shtml

Premier League preview: Tottenham v Wigan By Football News Andre Villas-Boas' side are fourth on the table with 17 points, four points behind Manchester City and Manchester United and five points behind leaders Chelsea. However, Tottenham have made a shaky start to the season at White Hart Lane, managing just two wins and two draws from five matches at home. Adding to their woes, Tottenham were stunned in the Capital One Cup on Wednesday, going down to Premier League rivals Norwich City 2-1 at Carrow Road. "We set out to try and win this game and to let it slip in the end is difficult for everyone," Villas-Boas told Tottenham's website. "But we move on and focus on Wigan now." Wigan suffered a bigger blow in the Capital One Cup after being eliminated by League Two outfit Bradford City on Tuesday. Roberto Martinez's men dominated possession at the DW Stadium but were unable to find a way past goalkeeper Matt Duke before bowing out in a penalty shootout. "The whole team are very disappointed, we had players in the team who were desperate for minutes on the pitch and to make an impact on the team," Martinez told Wigan's website. "But we'll look back on exiting the cup having not lost the game in normal time and after being the better side throughout the match, but just lacking the final touch." Wigan, in 15th on eight points, are aiming for their second straight win in the league, having accounted for West Ham United 2-1 last week.

http://www.football.com/en-gb/premier-league-preview-tottenham-v-wigan/

Discuss football with over 60,000 fans. Free Membership. Log in to check your private messages Problems logging in? Click here to fix login problems. FootballsFuture.com Forum Index Please enter your username and password to log in. Log me on automatically each visit: I can't stay logged in I forgot my password I need a username © 2001, 2005 phpBB Group

http://www.footballsfuture.com/phpBB2/login.php?redirect=posting.php&mode=quote&p=13730989

Al Davis has left the building, but no matter where he is, I expect he’s arguing with his maker, “Once a Raider, always a Raider.” Davis passed away today at the age of 82, and leaves an indelible mark on the NFL. Few executives in professional sports have been as controversial. While time seemed to pass up Davis in recent years – the strategy and methods to build a winning team changing with the times – for 15 years, the Raiders were the gold standard for the AFL and NFL after the merger. From 1967 to 1985 the Raiders won 13 division championships, one AFL championship (1967), three Super Bowls (XI, XV, and XVIII) and made 15 playoff appearances. Davis is surely yelling at me from the great beyond right now. He would say it wasn’t the “gold standard” it was the “silver and black” standard. He promoted a philosophy that players rallied around. The eye patch and swords meant fighting for the wins in a way that now conjures up “old school.” But there was more. “Pride and Poise”, “Commitment to Excellence,” and “Just Win, Baby” were not just sayings to Davis, there were trademarked. And, there’s little doubting that former and current players, as well as some fans, have one of these slogans tattooed on the skin, and likely, their soul. Davis was also nothing if controversial. He was involved in several lawsuits with the NFL, including the relocation of the Raiders to LA. The owners voted then 21-1 against the move, and the move was initially blocked by a court injunction, but eventually Davis was able to get the courts his way. The club back to Oakland in 1995. Davis tried suing the league before the move saying that the NFL had purposely tried to derail efforts to get a new stadium built in Inglewood. There were other cases where Davis went against the grain. When the upstart USFL filed a lawsuit against the NFL and then commissioner Pete Rozelle for violation of the Sherman Antitrust Act, Davis sided with the USFL and the Raiders were excluded from the suit in exchange for Davis’ testimony for the USFL. The league sought actual damages of $567 million dollars which, when trebled, would amount to more than $1.7 billion. In 2007, NFL Films chose the feud between Davis and the NFL and Pete Rozelle as their number 1 greatest feud in NFL history on the NFL Network’s Top Ten Feuds. Davis left an indelible mark on the NFL. He was driven, and a maverick, and surely a thorn in the NFL’s side. He held fast to what made the Raiders great in a time long past, and refused to budge to the changing times. With Davis’ passing, it truly marks an end of an era. When the history of the NFL is written, its early days are defined by Davis more than any other. FOLLOW MAURY BROWN ON TWITTER @BizballMaury

http://www.forbes.com/sites/sportsmoney/2011/10/08/once-a-raider-always-a-raider-al-davis-has-left-the-building/

Flowery Branch, GA (Sports Network) - Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones' status for this weekend's game against the Arizona Cardinals remains uncertain after the second-year standout missed a third consecutive day of practice on Friday. Jones is dealing with a sore ankle that limited his play count during last week's 31-27 loss at New Orleans, though the 2011 first-round pick still managed to record four catches for 75 yards. The Falcons have listed him questionable on their final injury report. The 23-year-old is in the midst of an outstanding sophomore campaign for 8-1 Atlanta, having amassed 703 receiving yards and five touchdowns on 44 grabs. Linebacker Sean Weatherspoon, who's sat out the Falcons' last two contests with an ankle sprain, was also termed questionable for Sunday's tilt after missing a third straight practice. Leading rusher Michael Turner (groin), defensive end John Abraham (back) and defensive tackle Vance Walker (ribs) are questionable as well, though all three were limited participants in Friday's session.

http://www.fox16.com/sports/story/Julio-Jones-likely-game-time-call-for-Falcons/QFYD4BcWnUGZBrDtYzoahg.cspx

MCC aiming to have Twenty20 cricket included at 2024 Olympics following meeting in Auckland - The Daily Telegraph - February 28, 2013 MCC's world cricket committee says it would like to see Twenty20 cricket included at the 2024 Olympic Games. Cricket is on the first rung of the ladder for inclusion at a future Games, having received full Olympic recognition in 2010, but would still have to apply to be on the program. Now the earliest the International Cricket Council can apply for the sport to feature at an Olympic Games is 2024. After a two-day meeting in Auckland, the MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club)world cricket committee said any financial losses the game might suffer from the sport being included at an Olympics would be outweighed by extra exposure. "The committee accepts that, were cricket to be played in the Olympics, there would be a short-term loss in income for the ICC, and therefore for dispersion to its members, but is impressed with the potential boost for the game worldwide if cricket were to be included," it said in a statement. "Furthermore, the committee advocates Twenty20 cricket as the format to be played at the Olympics, thereby providing the 'pinnacle' of that form of the sport." MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club), which still has worldwide responsibility for the sport's rules, no longer has a day-to-day role in the global administration of the game. But its world cricket committee, chaired by former England captain Mike Brearley and including greats like Steve Waugh and Rodney Marsh is regarded as an influential group within the sport. The Auckland meeting saw New Zealand batting great Martin Crowe, who has cancer, stand down from the committee, having served since its inception in 2006. Committee members wished him well, with Brearley thanking Crowe for his "passionate opinions, his enthusiasm and clear love of the game". Follow the action. Like Fox Sports. Sat May 18 15:52:00 EST 2013Motorsport - Ferrari joins bitter tyre fight Sat May 18 15:20:00 EST 2013League - Wests Tigers CEO Humphreys quits Sat May 18 15:01:00 EST 2013AFL - Neeld forecasts more Demons pain Sat May 18 14:12:00 EST 2013Football - Mourinho laments 'worst' season Sat May 18 13:36:00 EST 2013League - Sale of Storm a done deal Sat May 18 12:42:27 EST 2013Cricket - Dangers of living it up in IPL Sat May 18 12:02:58 EST 2013Rugby - Izzy not bitter over White comments Sat May 18 11:35:00 EST 2013More Sports - Nash's 43,000-to-1 shot Sat May 18 11:11:26 EST 2013League - Sims in picture for Origin debut Sat May 18 10:10:43 EST 2013More Sports - Doping battle at breaking point: WADA Sat May 18 10:06:50 EST 2013Cricket - Warner in anti-media Twitter war Sat May 18 09:43:00 EST 2013AFL - How did it come to this for Jack? Sat May 18 15:45:15 EST 2013Play Video: Craddock responds to Warner News Limited cricket writer Robert Craddock has responded to David Warner's Twitter rant that occurred earlier this morning. Sat May 18 13:08:22 EST 2013Play Video: Real see red in Cup final Coach Jose Mourinho and superstar Cristiano Ronaldo are sent off as Real Madrid lose a wild Copa Del Rey final against fierce rivals Atletico Madrid. Sat May 18 13:08:12 EST 2013Play Video: Warner in Twitter tirade David Warner launches an extraordinary Twitter attack against two veteran cricket journalists.

http://www.foxsports.com.au/cricket/mcc-aiming-to-have-twenty20-cricket-included-at-2024-olympics-following-meeting-in-auckland/story-e6frf3g3-1226587785293

The Repsol Honda rider got the better of Yamaha's Jorge Lorenzo on the very last corner of the race to take his third win of the season. The Spaniard now trails Lorenzo by just 13 points in the riders' standings with six races remaining. Third place went to Cal Crutchlow, marking the first time a Briton has finished on the podium at this level since Jeremy McWilliams at the 2000 British Grand Prix. Crutchlow, who signed a new one-year contract extension with Tech 3 Yamaha on Saturday, has threatened to land his maiden podium finish on several occasions this season and was delighted to finally get the job done on Sunday. "I am elated, and we have proved a lot of people wrong. We have finally got there," He told BBC Sport. "There has been a lot of pressure on me to do it all season and hopefully I can continue it now." Pole-sitter Lorenzo held the lead off the start from Pedrosa, with Crutchlow dropping quickly to third place from his career-best second on the grid. The front two soon pulled away from the Briton and diced all the way to the flag. Matters came to a head on the final lap when Lorenzo muscled past Pedrosa only for the Honda rider to hit back. There was nothing between the two as they went into the final turn, but it was Pedrosa who found the better drive out of the corner to take a thrilling win by just 0.178 seconds ahead of his compatriot. Watch: Pedrosa wins thrilling Czech GP... More Videos Crutchlow's team-mate Andrea Dovizioso took fourth place, ahead of Stefan Bradl (LCR Honda), Alvaro Bautista (Gresini Honda), Valentino Rossi (Ducati) and Randy de Puniet (ART). Meanwhile, British World Superbike rider Jonathan Rea is poised to step up to the premier class after it was confirmed on Sunday that he will join up with Repsol Honda for both Monday's test at Brno and the two-day test at Aragon on September 4-5. The Northern Irishman is poised to ride for the team at the next two rounds in Misano and Aragon as the replacement for Pedrosa's team-mate, reigning champion Casey Stoner, who has returned to Australia for surgery on the ankle he badly injured in an accident at Indianapolis last weekend.

http://www.foxsportsasia.com/motorsport/moto-grand-prix/news/detail/item845146/Pedrosa-in-control-with-Brno-victory/

Bring your bucks and your biceps over to Roberta’s backyard this weekend for the Second Flex: Ladies Arm Wrestling competition. Eight decked-out lady wrestlers will compete in a round-robin style tournament to see who’s the strongest, and who plays the dirtiest. Outrageous costumes and betting? They’re strongly encouraged. Even better? The event is free, and net proceeds go to support Providence House — a not-for-profit organization founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph that helps transform the lives of homeless, abused, and formerly incarcerated women and their children – one family at a time. The Five Borough Ladies Arm Wrestling league is a part of a national network of ladies arm wrestling league. We sat down with the last bout’s champion, Jackie O’Nasty, and organizer Kate McNeely to get their take on what makes a champion.

http://www.freewilliamsburg.com/tag/arm-wrestling/

2010: Saw action in all 18 games for the Falcons, totaling three starts. Posted 11 points in her first collegiate season with five goals and one assist, including one game-winning marker. Notche her first career marker with an 8-0 win over Anna Maria (9/4). Click here for season statistics. High School: 2010 graduate of Littleton High School. Member of the field hockey and track teams. Served as captain of the field hockey team, while earning Mid-Wachusett D All-Star honors. Personal: Born May 9, 1992 in Littleton, Mass. Daughter of Paula and Chuck Bush. Undecided on a major at the University.

http://www.fscfalcons.com/sports/fh/2011-12/bios/rebecca%20bush

Women's Basketball Signs Tall Trio for 2011-12 Nov. 29, 2010 FULLERTON, CA - Cal State Fullerton women's basketball head coach Marcia Foster announced that the Titans have signed three players to National Letters of Intent to continue their academic and athletic careers with the Titans. Chelsea Austin (Los Angeles, CA/Beverly Hills HS), Natalie Williams (Cerritos, CA/St. Anthony HS), and Jessica Palmer (Elverta, CA/Antelope HS) will join the program as freshmen beginning with the 2011-12 season. Austin, a six-foot guard/forward, helped lead the Normans to the second round of the CIF Division II State Tournament as a junior, averaging just under 14 points and 13.2 rebounds per game for the year while swatting 3.8 blocks per game. She was an All-Ocean League First-Team and All-CIF Second-Team honoree in 2010, helping Beverly Hills HS to a 21-13 overall mark. "Chelsea can play all five positions on the floor," Foster said. "She has incredible passing ability, can shoot the three, post up and has the length and jumping ability to rebound on both ends of the floor as well as block shots. We are thrilled that Chelsea has chosen Cal State Fullerton to continue what could be an amazing career. We are looking forward to utilizing her unique skill set." Williams, a 6-1 forward/center who played her freshman season at Artesia HS in Lakewood, helped the Saints to a CIF Division V title as the division's top seed and a runner-up finish at the CIF State Tournament as a junior, averaging eight points and 10 rebounds per contest en route to All-Santa Cruz League Honorable Mention honors. St. Anthony's finished 26-10 overall, reaching the state title game for the first time in school history. "Natalie is long, athletic, quick and versatile," Foster said. "A true stretch four, Natalie has the ability to knock down the three, a great midrange game and a solid interior one. Her rebounding, defensive prowess and inside offensive presence, add solid depth to our post game while at the same time, challenging opposing post defenders to guard her on the perimeter. We are excited that Natalie has chosen Cal State Fullerton to continue her career. Her potential at the collegiate level is unlimited." Palmer, a 6-2 left-handed post player from Northern California, averaged 9.2 ppg and 8.4 rpg as a junior for the Titans, earning All-Capital Athletic League honors and serving as team captain for the second-straight season. She was also named the team's Best Defensive Player twice as a sophomore and junior. "Jessica is long and strong in the post," Foster said. "She has great court vision for a 'big' and great hands in traffic. Her defense and rebounding will anchor a solid freshman class and bring much needed depth to the post position. The addition of Jessica to our program solidifies our post game, strengthening our goal of becoming a threat from every position on the floor. We very pleased Jessica chose to join the Titan Family." Cal State Fullerton, currently 3-4 overall on the 2010-11 season, continues play this weekend with a single game at Bowling Green State on Saturday (Dec. 4).

http://www.fullertontitans.com/sports/w-baskbl/spec-rel/112910aaa.html

Titans Down Seton Hall, Lose Pitchers Duel to Oregon Feb. 18, 2007 LAS VEGAS, NV - Cal State Fullerton split its two games at the Louisville Slugger Desert Classic on Saturday night, defeating Seton Hall by the count of 12-2 in five innings before falling in a pitchers duel against Oregon, 2-0, in the night cap. The Titans are now 4-5 overall while the Pirates fall to 0-3 and the Ducks improve to 8-1. Fullerton closes out tournament play on Sunday morning (Feb. 18) at 11:30 a.m. as the Titans take on Sacramento State. Cal State Fullerton 12, Seton Hall 2 (5 inn.) Box Score - Seton Hall Cal State Fullerton broke open a close game with a six-run fourth inning and set a season high with 12 hits as the Titans posted a 12-2 victory over Seton Hall in five innings on Saturday night in the second day of action at the Louisville Slugger Desert Classic in Las Vegas, Nev. The top of Fullerton's order combined to go 6-for-9 with seven runs scored and five runs driven in. Sophomore Courtney Martinez was 2-for-2 with three runs, a double, a home run and three RBI. Doucette (2-1) earned her second consecutive win in the circle, allowing two runs on four hits, walking two and striking out five in the victory. Ashley Constantini suffered the loss, allowing nine runs on nine hits and walking three in 3 1/3 innings of work. The Titans got on the board first without the benefit of a hit as three walks, including an intentional free pass to Lauren Lupinetti, loaded the bases with one out. That brought up Ashley Van Boxmeer, who lifted a fly ball deep to right field to plate Doucette for the 1-0 lead. Doucette helped her own cause in the second as she singled home Baker, who doubled with two outs, to make it 2-0. Martinez then followed on the very next pitch with a line drive two-run home run to left field, making it 4-0 in favor of the Titans. Seton Hall got a run back in the second as Laura Baranek lined a 1-1 pitch over the fence in right centerfield to get the Pirates on the board and close the gap to 4-1. Jenna Best then followed with an RBI single in the third inning, driving home Leah Menichetti, who tripled, to make it 4-2. The Titans then broke the game wide open, sending 12 batters to the plate during their six-run fourth inning. Martinez (RBI double), Munoz (two-run single), and Gollhardt (two-run double) each drove in runs with hits while Baker added a bases-loaded walk to drive in the final run of the inning. Fullerton added two more runs in the fifth on a throwing error and a single by Wheeler for the final tallies. Oregon 2, Cal State Fullerton 0 Box Score - Oregon Back-to-back bases loaded walks in the top of the sixth snapped a scoreless tie and Oregon starter Alicia Cook scattered six hits in the complete game effort. After battling through five scoreless innings, the Ducks broke through on the scoreboard first as Jenn Salling led off with a bunt single and moved to second on a sacrifice by Neena Bryant. Lovena Chaput followed with a single to left to put runners on the corners. Ann Marie Topps followed with a walk to load the bases with only one out. Baker (2-2) struck out Kristi Leiter for the second out of the inning to set the stage for Joanna Gail, who worked the count full before taking ball four to plate Salling for the 1-0 lead. Gail was followed by Amie Morris who, like Gail, worked the count full once again before taking ball four to plate Chaput with the second run. That would be all Cook (4-1) would need as she stranded the tying runs in scoring position in the sixth and surrendered only a single in the seventh en route to the win. Baker (2-2) pitched well despite being saddled with the loss, allowing just six hits while striking out 13 - logging at least two strikeouts in five of the seven innings. Lupinetti led the Titans with her 2-for-3 night while four other Titans had hits. Fullerton left nine on base for the game - including four in scoring position. Oregon left 10 on base - seven in scoring position.

http://www.fullertontitans.com/sports/w-softbl/recaps/021807aaa.html

FIFA MANAGER 13 is the 12th edition of the franchise, and focuses on the new Team Dynamics feature which makes your team come alive. As a manager in FM13 you have complete control over the management of a modern football club. In the game you are responsible for the line-up, the tactics and training of your team, for signing the right players and the extension of your club facilities and the stadium. The special highlights in FM13 are the FIFA license, the FIFA 3D engine, more than 40,000 licensed players, many of whom come with original player pictures, the player manager and national team manager mode, the Create-a-Club mode and the Match Prognosis Tool as well as a unique, comprehensive editor. - FIFA MANAGER 13 introduces Team Dynamics, a new feature that brings the role of the trainer to life, encouraging players to pay close attention to relationships, egos and goals of individuals within the team. As the trainer, you get an overview of team hierarchy, rivalry, personality clashes, personal goals, and much more. New individual player objectives have a special role, and your team will only be successful with enough team leaders and everyone working towards the same objectives. - Two new features called Team Matrix and Hierarchy Pyramid enables fan to quickly identify which players are having challenges and their impact on team dynamics. From balancing player rivalries to spending enough time understanding and setting player expectations, FIFA MANAGER 13 will push you to perfect the art of team management. - Once again, the transfer market is the heartbeat of FIFA MANAGER 13. Players now consider more than 40 criteria when making their decision on whether or not to transfer to a new club. From the new menu item Next Season Planner you can plan your future team in detail, see the impact of integrating potential newcomers into your existing team and try out new players. - The game also takes a visual leap forward with higher resolution graphics, numerous new fan banners that create a livelier atmosphere in the stadiums, and fans now wear shirts, scarves and jackets that show off their team colours, just like real life. Plus, the 3D game option has been refined, and tactical orders and individual instructions to players now have seamless settings which enable gamers to further fine-tune their tactical plans.

http://www.gamersgate.com/DD-FIFAM13/fifa-manager-13

UF faces balanced Missouri Published: Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 6:01 a.m. Last Modified: Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 12:16 a.m. Florida had a simple defensive mission in its convincing 68-47 win Thursday night at Texas A&M. Who: No. 10 Florida (13-2, 3-0 SEC) vs. No. 17 Missouri (13-3, 2-1 SEC) When: 2 p.m. Where: O'Connell Center It won't be quite as easy today when the Gators return home on a 36-hour turnaround to face No. 17 Missouri. To beat the Aggies, the Gators blanketed senior guard Elston Turner, who was held to just four points on 1-of-10 shooting. Turner had scored 40 points in his previous game against Kentucky. But Missouri features a more balanced team with four healthy scorers in double figures. Also, the Gators must figure out how to minimize the impact of one of the best point guards in college basketball. Missouri junior Phil Pressey leads the Southeastern Conference in assists at 7.3 per game, accounting for more than half of the Tigers' total assists (14.4 apg). “He's terrific at what he does,” Florida coach Billy Donovan said. “I think the thing that he does that's the sign of a great player is a player who can make other people around him better, and certainly he does that as well as anyone in the country.” Missouri comes into the game without leading scorer Laurence Bowers (16.8 ppg.), who is out indefinitely with a knee injury. But the Tigers still have plenty of offensive firepower, led by guard Jabari Brown (13.9 ppg), Pressey (12.9 ppg), Connecticut transfer Alex Oriakhi (10.4 ppg.) and Auburn transfer Earnest Ross (10.3 ppg). Donovan said Missouri's scoring balance begins with Pressey's court vision and decision-making ability. “He understands rotations,” Donovan said. “He understands how the floor is moving. And then he finds people and he gives a lot of their players a lot of opportunities to take a lot of open shots, whether it's Oriakhi rolling to the basket for dunks, or whether it's finding Brown or anybody else on the perimeter for 3s.” Scottie Wilbekin will get the initial defensive assignment on Pressey, like he did against Turner. But Donovan said Wilbekin will get plenty of help from his teammates. And Florida's approach defensively will be different than what it was against Turner, considering Pressey's ability to create as well as score. “One of the things that makes them a great team in my opinion is the ability of Pressey to find people that are open,” Donovan said. “So you can sit there and give him a lot of attention and then all of a sudden he's finding people for wide-open shots, and that becomes really challenging.” It helps the Gators are returning home. Florida, a 13.5-point favorite according to Latest Line, is expecting its first sellout of the season at the 12,000-seat O'Connell Center for its first meeting with Missouri. “That's cool,” Florida senior guard Mike Rosario said. “It's going to be a great atmosphere and we're going to be ready.” Missouri's physicality up front has taken a blow due to the injury of Bowers (6-foot-8, 227 pounds), who is out with an MCL sprain. But the Tigers still come into the game leading the SEC in rebounding margin at plus-10.3. Oriakhi, the starting center on UConn's 2011 national championship team, is third in the SEC in rebounding at 8.6 per game. The battle royal in the paint between the 255-pound Oriakhi and 249-pound Florida junior center Patric Young should be worth watching. “They are going to come in here fired up,” Young said. “They believe they have a chance to win the conference just like we believe we have a chance to win the conference.” Florida will be playing its first and only two-day turnaround in league play this season. But the Gators have had success preparing quickly under Donovan. Florida went 4-0 in Thursday-Saturday turnarounds in SEC play last season and is 14-1 in Thursday-Saturday games since the 2009-10 season. “We have a lot of veteran guys that are used to it,” Young said. “We'll take care of our bodies to make sure we get our rest. When the ball is tipped, we'll be ready. There won't be any excuses.” All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.

http://www.gatorsports.com/article/20130119/ARTICLES/130119535/1136/[email protected]

You can see FIFA world cup fever everywhere, but wait due to any reason you could not not watch the match on your TV or computer? there is no need to get worried about. Today we compiled a list of three best iPhone apps which would help iPhone users to stay in touch with the latest updates of fifa world cup 2010. Few days ago we also posted about 8 cool iPhone Soccer games, if you are really a soccer lover then you should check out them! Its a Free iphone app, and ESPN 2010 FIFA world cup compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. Requires iOS 3.0 or later. ESPN 2010 FIFA World Cup is one of the best Iphone app, it updates users with Tournament stats and tables, including bracket view, Eclusive US and global news and analysis, Full tournament schedule, Free ESPN original video vignettes profiling all 32 teams, National anthems for all 32 World Cup teams, World Cup tournament history dating back to 1930 and many more. It is also a free iPhone app, compatible with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. Requires iOS 3.1 or later. It also sets the match time according to the desired Time Zone of the user so that you one can never miss any match because of time confusions. This handy little app is available for the iPhone and iPod Touch. Sky sports Live football is a free iPhone app and compatible with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. Requires iOS 3.0 or later. Sky Sports Live Football Score provides users detailed info of every match. Its feature includes live scores, commentary, match stats, pictures. Player profiles and updated news on teams and the World Cup are also part of this app.

http://www.geekersmagazine.com/iphone-apps-to-watch-fifa-world-cup-2010-live-on-iPhone

Georgia State Athletics Master Plan An institution on the rise, Georgia State University has a tradition of progress that is reflected in its rising stature, growing campus and broadening influence. The Georgia State Athletics Master Facilities Plan is a blueprint for success and growth for GSU athletics that will allow the Panthers to compete at the highest level. By building top-notch venues for every sport, Georgia State can recruit the best student-athletes and help them develop into champions. These new facilities will also enhance the game day experience for students, alumni and fans by moving the venues closer to the Georgia State campus and providing first-class amenities. The Georgia State Athletics Master Facilities Plan is an opportunity for alumni, friends and supporters to make an investment in the future of Panther athletics. Frequently Asked Questions: Q: What is the purpose of the Georgia State Athletics Master Facilities Plan? A: The Georgia State Athletics Master Facilities Plan is a blueprint for success and growth for GSU athletics that will allow the Panthers to compete at the highest level. Q: Where will these facilities be built? A: These facilities will be built in the downtown area, as close to the Georgia State campus as possible, but no specific land has been identified yet. Q: When will these facilities be built? A: New facilities will be built as funding becomes available. Q: How much will this plan cost? A: The total cost for the Georgia State Athletics Master Plan was valued at $80 million in January 2011. Q: How will this plan be funded? A: New facilities will be funded through private donations. Q: Who was involved in the development of the Athletics Master Plan? A: A team of representatives from Georgia State University, GSU Athletics, Sky Design, Max Wave Media, Inc., Populous and MAKE Architecture developed the master plan and brought it to life. Q: How can I donate? A: There are many exciting ways for Georgia State supporters to become involved, including naming opportunities. For more information, please contact Todd Reeser, Senior Associate Director of Athletics at 404-413.4016 or [email protected].

http://www.georgiastatesports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=205408033&DB_OEM_ID=12700&KEY=&DB_OEM_ID=12700&DB_LANG=C&IN_SUBSCRIBER_CONTENT=

By Amenu Shardow New Hearts of Oak captain Mahatma Otoo says the players are determined to win this season’s Premier League title. The former African champions have had no joy in the Ghanaian top flight since 2009 when they last won the Premier League. The Phobians’ woe was further deepened by the league success of rivals Asante Kotoko in the last campaign. This has seen a heightened crave for Premier League success this term especially from the supporters’ front and the newly installed captain says the team is ready to make the fans happy again. “I have spoken to all the players and we have resolved to win the Premier League title this season,” he told Kumasi-based Angel FM. “It has been three season now that we have not had Premier League joy and last time our rivals Asante Kotoko won it. “Our fans therefore want us to win it this time and we as players are determined to make them happy by winning the league. “The team is now very competitive as no one has a position yet so I believe this will help us in the long run to achieve the objective of winning the league.” Hearts open their 2013/14 season account with an away trip to the Tema Park to take on Tema Youth on October 7.

http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/hearts-captain-otoo-charges-team-to-win-premier-league/

Danny Carlton marked his return to Morecambe with a first-half double to leave Barnet deep in relegation trouble and give the Shrimps some breathing space with a 2-1 win. The 27-year-old striker rejoined Morecambe last month after being released by Bury and made the most of some poor set-piece defending to score twice in 10 first-half minutes after Mark Byrne had given the home side the lead. Loan signing Sam Deering's cross was only half cleared by Chris McCready and Byrne duly turned in his fifth goal of the season after 20 minutes. But Barnet's inability to deal with a Stewart Drummond free-kick cost them as Carlton stole in at the back post to nod home. And with three minutes to go before half-time Carlton scored his second, knocking in from close range as the Bees again failed to deal with a Drummond delivery. James Spencer should have put the visitors out of sight early in the second half before Morecambe goalkeeper Joe Anyon produced a great save to deny Charlie Taylor a late equaliser. Copyright (c) PA Sport 2009, All Rights Reserved.

http://www.givemefootball.com/155433-carlton-at-the-double-for-morecambe-match-review

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has heaped praise on fellow Anfield teammate Luis Suarez, suggesting he has been the player of the year so far this season. Suarez was signed by the Reds in January 2011 for £22.7 million, and has been in sensational form this season, hitting 18 goals in just 26 league appearances. The Uruguayan has scored some vital goals for Liverpool and Gerrard has hailed the striker as not only one of the best player in the Premier League but also in Europe. Gerrard told BBC Sport: “For me he's been player of the year, across this league and a lot more leagues. “There are probably only one or two people who you could say have been better than him this season. “How much better can he get? I'm not sure, but it's a scary thought if he does improve on how he's been performing this season.” Liverpool face the uneviable task of overturning a 2-0 deficit against Russian side Zenit St Petersburg in the Europa League round of 32 at Anfield tonight. However Gerrard has urged the entire team to rise up to the challenge, but believes Suarez can produce moments of individual brilliance to get his side out of trouble if required. Gerrard added: “We're all there behind him as well - he's not on his own - but I'd love nothing better than for this game to be decided on a bit of magic or brilliance from him. “With the season he's had, I think he does deserve it.” DISCLAIMER: This article has been written by a member of the GiveMeFootball Writing Academy and does not represent the views of GiveMeFootball.com or SportsNewMedia. The views and opinions expressed are solely that of the author credited at the top of this article. GiveMeFootball.com and SportsNewMedia do not take any responsibility for the content of its contributors.

http://www.givemefootball.com/332397-steven-gerrard-hails-player-of-the-season-suarez

When you’re good enough you’re old enough, as the old adage goes, but it might be a while before Archie Shepherd makes his professional debut - he’s only four-years-old. Archie has already caught the eye of Premier League scouts and trains with Arsenal as well as West Ham United’s under-6’s. He's also been offered a place in Chelsea’s academy after impressing at one of the club's soccer schools aged just three. Archie’s reputation was enhanced even further after he scored an amazing 10 goals in one game for his County Park team a few weeks ago. Parents Pat and Vicki Shepherd are getting used to the attention their talented son receives, and say they’re not surprised at his ability as football’s the only thing Archie’s ever thought about. “He doesn't stop playing and he doesn't care if kids are bigger than him - he shows no fear. “He has become quite well known - after the match he had a crowd of people around him telling him he was the next Messi. “There are a lot of clubs monitoring him and just waiting for him to get a bit older really. “During half term he went to the Chelsea summer school and he took all the trophies away. “He is a normal height for a four-year-old but his natural skills and footwork are way above average for his age. He was showing the Under 10s his skills the other week. “He is just football obsessed - I don’t know where he gets it from.” Archie may have been touted as the next Lionel Messi but there’s only one man Archie wants to emulate. “I like Real Madrid - when I grow up I want to be Cristiano Ronaldo,” he said. And he added: “I love football.” DISCLAIMER: This article has been written by a member of the GiveMeFootball Writing Academy and does not represent the views of GiveMeFootball.com or SportsNewMedia.The views and opinions expressed are solely that of the author credited at the top of this article. GiveMeFootball.com and SportsNewMedia do not take any responsibility for the content of its contributors.

http://www.givemefootball.com/335586-the-next-lionel-messi-sparks-premier-league-transfer-scramble

ENGLAND Sevens Coach Ben Ryan today (Friday) announced his 12 man squad, including Gloucester centre Jack Adams, who will represent England at the forthcoming IRB World Seven Series tournament in Dubai. According to Ryan, the squad is a combination of young talent and experience with lots of potential. Players such as Sale Sharks' Andy Vilk and Ben Foden and powerful Gloucester centre Jack Adams are all experienced sevens players. For Andy this will be his third appearance at the Dubai tournament and his first as captain. Young emerging talent, Matt Banahan, Antony Elliott, Tom Youngs, Joe Simpson and Liam Gibson will be keen to show off their skills and earn their first England caps. With players like David Strettle, James Haskell and Nick Abendanon now holding England senior honours after being noticed in last seasons tournament, it's a very exciting time for this squad, if these young players can perform and impress they have every chance of following in their predecessors' footsteps. Ben Ryan said, "This seasons squad will start as underdogs against the top four sides in the world series. New and unproven, the squad has players with immense potential to move through into the very top of the senior game.. It's time now for these players who have been identified as having this to step up and put potential into actual. It's a hugely exciting time." Dubai 12 man squad: Jack Adams (Gloucester Rugby) Matthew Banahan (Bath Rugby) * John Brake (Northampton Saints) Isoa Damudamu (Newbury Blues) Antony Elliot (Newcastle Falcons)* Ben Foden (Sale Sharks) Liam Gibson (Plymouth Albion)* Tom Guest (Harlequins)* Simon Hunt (Ebbw Vale) Joe Simpson (London Wasps) * Andy Vilk, Captain (Sale Sharks) Tom Youngs (Leicester Tigers)* Gloucester Rugby CEO Stephen Vaughan was delighted to introduce ADEY Professional Heating Solutions as the club's new main sponsor this week. He spoke to the club website about the exciting new partnership. Although understandably disappointed following the 40-39 defeat at Exeter, Freddie Burns thought that both teams fully contributed to a great spectacle but that a couple of refereeing decisions were key to the outcome. Gloucester's final game of the season ended in a narrow defeat in a pulsating encounter at the Exeter Chiefs. The Cherry and Whites went down 40-39, as Gareth Steenson's dramatic late penalty meant that the end of Director of Rugby Nigel Davies' first season in charge ended in defeat. Davies spoke to the official website in the Devon sunshine. Dave Lewis was in a tough situation on Saturday afternoon - playing for Gloucester against the side he will join next season, Exeter Chiefs. At the final whistle though, Lewis was simply disappointed to have lost the game. Tongan second row Lua Lokotui is looking forward to catching up with some old acquaintances at Sandy Park when Gloucester take on Exeter Chiefs on Saturday afternoon, as he and his team mates hope to finish the season on a high note. During a break from training ahead of Saturday's Aviva Premiership fixture at Exeter, centre Henry Trinder hopes that Gloucester build on the momentum from the recent win over Saracens, and expressed frustration that he's hitting form as the season end approaches after missing time due to injury. Gloucester Rugby may have already clinched their Heineken Cup spot for 2013-14, but Director of Rugby Nigel Davies stressed this week that it's important for Gloucester to finish their season on a positive note at Exeter on Saturday. Gloucester Rugby CEO Stephen Vaughan spoke to the Official Site this afternoon after he revealed the great news that Kingsholm Stadium was to play host to 4 pool matches of the Rugby World Cup 2015. He spoke of how much it means to the club as a whole and that all the hard work put in with Gloucester's bid had been rewarded. On an exciting day for both Gloucester Rugby and the City, the Cherry and Whites' own World Cup Winner Jimmy Cowan spoke to the Official Site expressing his delight that Kingsholm had been chosen as a Host City and Venue for the Rugby World Cup 2015. Anyone who has visited Kingsholm Stadium in the past couple of weeks will have noticed that the pitch isn't quite looking as it normally does. Stadium Manager Dave Balmer explained what work is currently taking place.

http://www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk/news/3310.php

Jan. 24, 2013 DURHAM, N.C. - The Louisville baseball program received its highest ranking in school history on Thursday as the Cardinals were tabbed at No. 4 in the 2013 Baseball America Preseason Top 25. The Baseball America ranking was two spots better than Louisville's previous best ever ranking of No. 6 following the Cardinals' College World Series appearance in 2007. Louisville's previous best preseason ranking was No. 8 in 2009 by Collegiate Baseball newspaper. In its final analysis of the Cardinals, Baseball America had this to say about Louisville in 2013: "The Cardinals reached a regional final at eventual national champion Arizona last year, and anything short of their first trip to Omaha since 2007 will be a disappointment this spring. This team is a legitimate championship contender." With the release on Thursday of the Baseball America poll and the USA Today preseason coaches' poll, which had UofL ranked at No. 25 overall, the Cardinals are ranked in each of the first four major preseason national polls announced for 2013. Louisville is also ranked No. 15 by Perfect Game and No. 22 by Collegiate Baseball newspaper. Future ACC foe North Carolina sits atop the Baseball America poll, while Arkansas is No. 1 in the USA Today coaches' poll. Louisville, which won its third BIG EAST regular season title in the last four seasons in 2012, is led in 2013 by the return of seven of its school record 10 All-BIG EAST performers from last season, including second team outfielders Adam Engel and Cole Sturgeon. Most of the Cardinals' pitching staff returns for 2013, led by All-BIG EAST right-hander Jeff Thompson as well as BIG EAST Rookie of the Year and Freshman All-American righty Jared Ruxer. Overall, Louisville returns 21 letterwinners from the 2012 team, which finished 41-22 and advanced to an NCAA Regional for the fifth time in six seasons. In his six previous seasons leading the Cardinals, McDonnell is 258-122 with three BIG EAST regular-season titles, two BIG EAST Tournament titles, two NCAA Super Regional appearances and one College World Series berth. Louisville will open the 2013 season on Friday, Feb. 15 against Indiana (7:30 p.m., ET) in Dunedin, Fla., at the BIG EAST/Big Ten Challenge. The Cardinals' 36-game home slate at the newly expanded Jim Patterson Stadium is set to open on Wednesday, Feb. 20 at 3 p.m., ET against Eastern Kentucky. Fans can follow Louisville baseball on Twitter at http://twitter.com/uoflbaseball and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/ulbaseball. Baseball America Preseason Top 25 Rank School - 2012 Final Record (2012 Rank) 1. North Carolina - 46-16 (17) 2. Vanderbilt - 35-28 (NR) 3. Arkansas - 46-22 (6) 4. Louisville - 41-22 (NR) 5. Mississippi State - 40-24 (22) 6. Oregon State - 40-20 (24) 7. South Carolina - 49-20 (2) 8. North Carolina State - 43-20(12) 9. Stanford - 41-18 (13) 10. LSU - 47-18 (9) 11. Kentucky - 45-18 (20 12. UCLA - 48-16 (5) 13. Mississippi - 37-26 (NR) 14. TCU - 40-22 (16) 15. Oregon - 49-16 (11) 16. Georgia Tech - 38-28 (NR) 17. Florida - 47-20 (3) 18. Rice - 41-19 (18) 19. Oklahoma - 42-25 (14) 20. Florida State - 50-17 (4) 21. New Mexico - 37-24 (NR) 22. Cal State Fullerton - 36-21 (21) 23. Southern Mississippi - 32-24 (NR) 24. Arizona - 48-17 (1) 25. San Diego - 40-17 (NR)

http://www.gocards.com/sports/m-basebl/spec-rel/012413aaa.html

Eagles Survive Scare from Eastern Oregon for 90-81 Win Nov. 29, 2006 Sophomore Rodney Stuckey had the ninth 30-point outing of his career and senior Derek Risper added a double-double as Eastern Washington held off Eastern Oregon 90-81 in a non-conference collegiate basketball game Wednesday (Nov. 29) at Reese Court in Cheney, Wash. The Eagles opened a 21-point lead in the second half but had to bring back its starters down the stretch when the Mountaineers pulled to within six points with 1:57 to play. Eastern Washington, which didn't make a field goal in the last 6:48 of the game, clinched the win with six free throws in the last two minutes. The NCAA Division I Eagles are now 4-3, while the Mountaineers are 7-2. Eastern Oregon, a NAIA Division II opponent from LaGrande, Ore., had won its first seven games of the season for its best start in school history under head coach Ryan Looney. "I'm happy that we won the game," said Eagle head coach Mike Burns. "We have to tip our hats to coach Looney and his team for playing like a team that deserved to be in that game. And they were up until the end. Eastern Oregon is a good basketball team and they proved that with their hard play." Stuckey scored 30 points to lead the Eagles in scoring for the 34th-straight game. He wasn't supposed to get a chance at his ninth 30-point game in 37 career games when he went to the bench late with the game seemingly in control. But he had to return as the Mountaineers rallied, and drained four free throws in the last 41 seconds to finish 12-of-12 from the line. This week's Big Sky Conference Player of the Week, Stuckey made 9-of-18 shots from the field and added seven assists, six steals and five rebounds in 33 minutes of action. Risper scored 16 points and had a career-high 12 rebounds as four Eagles scored in double figures. Omar Krayem added 14 and senior Paul Butorac chipped in 10 points, six rebounds and a pair of blocked shots. Tanner McIntosh led Eastern Oregon with 21 points and eight rebounds and Derek Brown scored 20 with four rebounds and three steals. Paul Carollo had 11 points and Jeremy Templeton scored 12 with five assists. Brown and Templeton are both from Spokane. "When we play with focus we can be really good, but when we lose that focus we're not very good," said Burns. "That being said, all respect goes out to coach Looney and those Spokane kids -- Derek Brown and Jeremy Templeton -- for coming out and playing a heckuva game in front of their friends and family." Eastern Washington trailed early by seven at 28-21, but the Eagles went on a 12-2 run to close the first half and lead 41-37 at halftime. A 5-0 run to open the second half gave EWU a 46-37 advantage. Eastern Washington eventually built that lead to 77-56 and led 81-65 on a basket by Brandon Moore with 6:48 left as EWU began to pull its starters. But the Eagles had seven turnovers in a stretch of just over four minutes to allow the Mountaineers back in the game. A basket by Brown with 1:57 to play pulled them to within 84-78 before EWU held on for the win. Wednesday's game concluded a stretch of three games in six nights for EWU. The Eagles now head on the road for four-straight games, starting Sunday (Dec. 3) afternoon at Cal State Northridge. "The four-game road trip will be tough," said Burns. "We have played a lot of games in a short period of time and we will continue to do that through Sunday. So again, the focus is something we will need on the road. If you want to win on the road you have to play better than the other team in terms of execution, effort, and focus. We will need that against Cal State Northridge." The Matadors are 4-3, and average 86.4 points per game while allowing 80.4. They also force more than 22 turnovers per game but average nearly 25 themselves. On Nov. 15, the Matadors beat College of the Redlands 159-97. "Cal State Northridge is a very athletic, talented team that has played great basketball so far this season.," added Burns. "They have a good shot at contending for the Big West title. Coach Braswell is a great coach and he will have them ready to play on their home court, which they defend very well. We will have to put our best foot forward on Sunday if we want to walk out with a win." The Eagles entered Wednesday's game coming off a 110-100 shootout victory over Cal State Fullerton. Eastern's 110 points was the 13th-most in school history and the third-most versus a NCAA Division I opponent. The only other times Eastern scored more versus a D-I opponent were both against U.S. International (118-83 on Feb. 2, 1991 and 116-82 on Feb. 8, 1986). The combined 210 points made it the fifth-highest scoring game in school history. The record was 225 in a 118-107 loss to Carroll College on Dec. 8, 1967. Versus Cal State Fullerton, Stuckey led Eastern in scoring for the 33rd-straight game and added nine assists and five steals. However, he was just 11-of-25 from the field while the rest of his teammates made 33-of-47 for 70 percent. As a team, Eastern shot a blistering 61 percent from the field as six players scored in double figures.

http://www.goeags.com/sports/m-baskbl/recaps/113006aaa.html

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - The Pfeiffer University swim teams broke a total of seven school records each finishing seventh overall in Wingate's annual Fall Frenzy held over the weekend at MCAC. Kate Galichenko and Matt Burns would take home victories in "B" finals while both also got in on the drowning of the school record books. The three-day weekend meet started with Galichenko taking home her individual victory in the "B" final of the 200 individual medley. Later in the day, George Moreno finished 11th overall in the 50 freestyle breaking his own school record. On Saturday, Galichenko began Saturday finishing 6th in the 400 IM setting a new school record before Daliya Spasova came within 0.9 seconds away from a new top mark concluding 10th in the 100 fly. Andrew Corley would finish 12th in the same event while Burns broke his own school-record twice in the prelims and finals of the 100 breaststroke. The Lady Falcons 800 free relay team of Galichenko, Hannah Finkernagel, Mary Rudolph and Spasova ended day two with a new school relay record. The demolition of the record books continued on Sunday as Finkernagel broke the 1,000 free record on an official split time within the 1,650, then proceeded to break the 1,650 record by more than 24 seconds. Grant Smith would conclude 11th overall in the men's 1,650 before Burns won the "B" final in the 200 breast after Nick Insley wrapped up the 200 backstroke in 11th. Spasova and Corley wrapped up the weekend with 12th place finishes in the 200 fly. With an excellent showing in the Fall Frenzy with some of the region and conference's best teams, Pfeiffer will now take some time off before a relay meet with St. Leo held in North Fort Myers, Florida during winter break. Fall Frenzy Full Field Results

http://www.gofalconsports.com/articlehome.asp?articleID=3117&asword=1

Good Named To All-Tournament Team Griffs Lose In Semifinals Of MAAC... Good, Severyn Receive All-MAAC Awards Volleyball Travels To MAAC Championship Volleyball Swept In Regular-Season Finale 11/10/12 - Volleyball Griffs Canít Finish Rally, Lose In Five... 11/09/12 - Volleyball Volleyball Wraps Up Regular Season 11/05/12 - Volleyball Good Named MAAC Player Of The Week 11/04/12 - Volleyball Volleyball Cruises To Senior Day Victory 11/03/12 - Volleyball Volleyball Clinches Spot In MAAC... 10 Questions With... 1. What is the best part about being a Griff? 2. What has been your favorite moment as a Canisius student-athlete? 3. What three words would you use to describe yourself? 4. What is your favorite part of Buffalo? 5. What is your favorite quote or phrase? 6. What was your favorite childhood toy? 7. What was your favorite childhood TV show? 8. Do you have any pre-game routine or ritual and if so, what is it? 9. What TV shows are you currently addicted to? 10. What is one interesting fact that people may not know about you?

http://www.gogriffs.com/SportSelect.dbml?ATCLID=205439000&SPID=12012&DB_LANG=C&DB_OEM_ID=20500

Michael Bannon, Rory McIlroy's first and only swing coach, has a video archive of McIlroy's swings that spans 15 years and numbers well into the thousands. Each swing is digitized, catalogued by date, and stored on a hard drive -- and, says Bannon, "they all tell a different story." It is a remarkable, perhaps unprecedented, database of one player's development, a swing-umentary that traces McIlroy's progress from a pint-size prodigy at Holywood Golf Club, in the suburbs east of Belfast, to a globe-trotting superstar striping balls on plush ranges in places like Dubai and Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. The first film in the collection, shot by Bannon on a sunny morning at Holywood, is a gem. It stars Rory, age 8, taking practice swings in a baggy yellow sweatshirt and a black Nike cap tugged low over his brow. The youngster struggles to control the weight of the clubhead, but his swing, long and full of torque, is instantly recognizable. "Did you play today, Rors?" Bannon asks from off camera. He speaks quickly, one word crashing into the next, but his Ulster lilt is warm and encouraging. "Yeah," Rors squeals. "What'dya go 'round in?" "Very good. When's your birthday? About another month? Good man. Let's see you swing the club, then." "Okay, put the club back down. We'll start from scratch. Okay, bend your knees. A tiny bit -- just a tiny bit. Now away you go. Swing... that's it. Now turn through. Hold your balance at the finish. Great. That's very good." That's it! Ya see that?" Bannon says, edging forward on his seat. "Hold the balance." It's a drizzly September morning at Bangor Golf Club, just up the road from Holywood, where Bannon, 54, has presided as head professional for the last 13 years. Bannon is playing the video of little Rory on a flat-panel monitor in a training studio adorned with a hitting net, shelves of instruction books, and poster-size photos of McIlroy. "You see, they talk about Rory's flexibility and how he turns his right shoulder to the target," he says. "But he was doing it back then." (Related Story: Will McIlroy follow Woods as golf's next Billion-Dollar Man?) Bannon stops the video and starts another, this one of Rory, age 10 or 11, hitting wedges on the practice tee at Bangor, and featuring a brief cameo by Rory's father, Gerry -- "before he was able to afford a good coat," Bannon says, laughing. Rory's consistency is mesmerizing; it's like watching a metronome. Bannon studies the film as if he's absorbing McIlroy's boundless potential again for the first time. "You see the control he has over the ball for such a young fella," Bannon says. "I didn't teach him to play golf, I just taught him how to swing the club." When you watch these old movies, two things become clear. One, McIlroy has always had that nest of curls. And two, Bannon hasn't received his due. He's revered in teaching circles -- he was named the European PGA Golf Coach of the Year in 2011 -- but despite mentoring the game's biggest talent, he lacks the Q-rating of a Butch Harmon, or even a Bill Harmon. That may change when Bannon hits the road with McIlroy full-time in 2013, but don't count on it. "The thing I like about Michael," McIlroy says, "is he's quiet, he's humble, he doesn't like the spotlight. He just wants me to swing my best and play my best. He's not really looking for anything out of it." Bangor members pay just £40, or about $65, for a lesson with Bannon (compare that to the $5,000 Butch Harmon commands for his three-day schools). "It's embarrassingly cheap," says Jack McCluskey, a longtime member and past captain of Bangor. "Without a doubt, he could get 10 times more if he wanted to." Bannon has wavy reddish-brown hair and resembles the actor Bradley Whitford of West Wing fame. He is soft-spoken but likes to connect with his students through a chat or a joke. Years ago, when he was an assistant pro at Holywood, Bannon informed one woeful member that he held the answer to all his swing flaws. Grinning, Bannon unclenched his fist to reveal three darts. Says Stephen Gordon, who is succeeding Bannon at Bangor, "Michael knows how to teach people, not just golf." (Related Story: Compare Rory's 2012 Tour stats with Tiger's) Between trips to the States during this year's FedEx Cup playoffs, Bannon hit the range at Bangor with Roy Bailie, a 32-year-old carpenter and 12-handicap who was taken by Bannon's accessiblity. ("I wouldn't be out here getting a lesson from Tiger's coach," he said.) After watching Bailie beat balls, Bannon showed him his swing on video next to McIlroy's, a sobering yet instructive experience. The takeaway: Bailie was releasing the club too early. Bannon prescribed a couple of drills and then said, "As I always say to Rory, 'The rest is up to you.' " As his stock has quietly risen, Bannon has fielded calls from all over from golfers seeking his services. One mother in Florida wanted to fly her son to Bangor for some one-on-one time. For the moment, though, Bannon is content with keeping an eye on McIlroy, then coming home to mow his lawn and spend time with his wife, Fionnuala, and their four children, Ellen, 23; Luke, 21; Monica, 20; and Feargus, 15. It's a good life -- "Some days you have to pinch yourself and think, 'Rory's the best player in the world,' Bannon says -- though not stress-free. Bannon may remember three-year-old Rory zipping around Holywood on his tricycle, but McIlroy's no kid anymore; he's the world's top-ranked golfer. "Lord knows what would have happened if I'd given Rory a bit of the wrong stuff early on," Bannon says. "Or if he'd gone to someone else, who knows what would have happened. Would he have been as good?" It's hard to imagine he could have been much better.

http://www.golf.com/tour-and-news/rory-mcilroys-lifelong-swing-coach-michael-bannon

Molly Molyneaux earns honours from Canadian Junior Golf Association Charlottetown native becomes seventh recipient of Helena Harbridge Sportsmanship Award Published on Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2012 10:35AM EST Last updated on Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2012 03:33PM EST The Canadian Junior Golf Association (CJGA) has recognized Molly Molyneaux of Charlottetown, PEI as the 2012 recipient of the Helena Harbridge Sportsmanship Award. Molyneaux, 17, is the first Atlantic Canada member to earn the honourable distinction for an award that recognizes sportsmanship, dedication, and commitment in the game of golf. The award is named after Helena Harbridge who was an outstanding junior golfer and CJGA alum who passed away in 2006 during her freshman year at West Georgia University. “When I had found out that I was chosen for the Helena Harbridge award, I was truly honoured” said an elated Molyneaux. “For the committee to see the same qualities in me as they had seen in Helena is very humbling.” Molyneaux was a member of CJGA team that captured the gold medal earlier this year at the Euro Junior Golf Cup in St. Andrews, Scotland. She also competed in the four CJGA Atlantic Canada events in 2012, finishing no worse than T5. “I love the game of golf and have put a lot of hard work in to get where I am today” stated Molyneaux. “Because of the CJGA I have been able meet amazing people and have built relationships with other players that will last a lifetime, which is something truly special.” Like Helena, Molyneaux’s dreams of attending an American university on an athletic scholarship are soon to become a reality as she will be signing with Armstrong Atlantic University in Savannah, Georgia. “After reading about Helena and her dedication to the game combined with her golf skills and strong academics, I can see a lot of myself in her” Molyneaux concluded. Winners of the Helena Harbridge Sportsmanship Award will receive a complimentary life time membership to the CJGA. - 2006 - Lauren Bowerman-Ritchie (Ontario) - 2007 - Juanita Rico (Alberta) - 2008 - Jocelyn Alford (Alberta) - 2009 - Thea Hedemann (Saskatchewan) - 2010 - Shannon Lee Greenshields (Quebec) - 2011 - Marlies Klekner-Alt (Ontario) For more information on the Canadian Junior Golf Association, click here.

http://www.golfcanada.ca/amateur-competition/amateur-championships/article27581.ece

McIlroy grabs share of first-round lead in Abu Dhabi - By Associated Press - Jan 26, 2012 11:35 AM ET ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates – Rory McIlroy opened his season by outplaying Tiger Woods in the first round of the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, shooting a 5-under 67 Thursday for a share of the lead. Woods shot a 70 in a threesome with McIlroy and top-ranked Luke Donald, who finished with a 71. Robert Karlsson tied for the lead while Gareth Maybin, Richard Finch and Jean-Baptiste Gonnet were one stroke back. Woods played bogey-free golf that produced few momentous shots and two birdies. He missed several birdie chances, including a 6-footer on his ninth, the 18th hole. “It was a good ball-striking round,” Woods said. “I had a hard time reading the greens out there. The greens were pretty grainy and I just had a hard time getting a feel for it. Toward the end I hit some pretty good putts, but overall I got fooled a lot on my reads.” McIlroy, the U.S. Open champion who has had three top-5 finishes in Abu Dhabi, made three birdies on his first four holes but erratic driving led to two bogeys on the next four. He steadied himself with three birdies on his back nine, including a chip-in on No. 8 from just off the green. “It’s a nice way to start the competitive season, I suppose,” McIlroy said. “I didn’t feel like I played that good. I definitely didn’t strike the ball as good as I have been the last couple of weeks. I think it’s just because your first competitive round of the season, card in your hand, you can get a little bit tentative or a little apprehensive.” Woods also struggled with his approaches shots at the National Course at the Abu Dhabi Golf Club, which was playing much tougher than in the past with narrower fairways and thicker rough. That resulted in many 25- and 30-footers he couldn’t sink. Sergio Garcia (71) and Jose Manuel Lara (70) each had hole-in-ones on the par-3 12th. KJ Choi, Colin Montgomerie and Padraig Harrington joined the group at 71. Second-ranked Lee Westwood (72) and defending champion Martin Kaymer (77) got off to poor starts and never challenged. McIlroy calls Woods a friend and was chatting with his playing partner for much of the day. He said he didn’t take much satisfaction from beating him in the first round. “If it was the last day of the tournament and you’re both going in there with a chance to win, I would take a lot of pride from that, obviously,” said the 22-year-old Northern Irishman. “But the first day of a tournament is a little different,” he said. “You’re just going out there and playing and seeing what you can do. But, hopefully, I can get myself into position where I do play with him on a Sunday and see how I get on.” After a seven-week layoff, Woods said he’s fitter than he has been in years. He’s coming off a victory at the Chevron World Challenge last month that ended a two-year title drought. With the win, Woods moved to 25th in the world after briefly falling outside the top 50 last year. Before the victory, Woods finished third at the Australian Open and delivered the clinching point for the American team in the Presidents Cup. “It felt the same as it had from Oz to the World Challenge to here,” Woods said of his game. “I controlled my ball all day and just had a hard time getting a feel for these greens. They are grainy enough where I just didn’t quite read them right, and I hit them good, and then the grain would take it, not take it. It was just difficult.” Keegan Bradley again bogeyed Nos. 1 and 18 in the second round of the HP Byron Nelson Championship. Unlike the first round, Bradley didn't set a course record. But he still finished with a three-strok... Read More More original content than any other website. Check out Golf Channel's top video & photos. - Venturi dies at 82 | Twitter reaction | Photos - Bradley keeps Nelson lead | At a glance | Scores - Korda leads Mobile Bay LPGA through 36 | Scores - McIlroy leaves agent, forms firm | Timeline - Only one Irish team to compete at World Cup - USGA to announce anchoring news Tuesday - Guan shoots 70-77, misses first PGA Tour cut - Poulter out at Volvo | 'Disgusted' with play | Results - Video: Man drains amazing office putt down stairs - Donald receives MBE from Queen of England - Open qualifying: Men's local | Women's sectional - Instruction: Improve your thought process

http://www.golfchannel.com/news/associated-press/mcilroy-shares-abu-dhabi-lead-woods-three-back/

Thirteen of the top 20 players in the world – including seven of the top 10 – are in the field this week at the WGC-HSBC Champions in China. And their no-show has unnerved the group head of sponsorship at HSBC. “Of course we’re disappointed not to have the two top players in the world,” said Giles Morgan, according to a report Tuesday in The Telegraph (UK). “Both have sent me apologies, but this is an event which should be regarded by all players as it is by the tours and the media as one of the top events in the world. “Therefore I feel strongly that the top players should be here. I believe that golfers have a responsibility to their sponsors. Without the sponsors there isn’t professional golf. I speak on behalf of the industry.” Morgan isn’t the first to question why McIlroy and Woods aren’t teeing it up in the final World Golf Championships event of the year, particularly after the duo squared off Monday in a one-on-one exhibition in China. For that Duel at Jinsha Lake, both players were handsomely compensated, with Woods reportedly receiving a $2 million appearance fee and McIlroy a $1 million bonus. This week, however, Woods is fulfilling corporate obligations in Singapore, while McIlroy is in Bulgaria to watch girlfriend Caroline Wozniacki play tennis. Though Woods is not scheduled to play another tournament until his World Challenge at the end of the month, McIlroy will play three more events as he attempts to become the second player in two years to capture the money title on both the PGA and European tours. - Venturi dies at 82 | Twitter reaction | Photos - Bradley keeps Nelson lead | At a glance | Scores - Korda leads Mobile Bay LPGA through 36 | Scores - McIlroy leaves agent, forms firm | Timeline - Only one Irish team to compete at World Cup - USGA to announce anchoring news Tuesday - Guan shoots 70-77, misses first PGA Tour cut - Poulter out at Volvo | 'Disgusted' with play | Results - Video: Man drains amazing office putt down stairs - Donald receives MBE from Queen of England - Open qualifying: Men's local | Women's sectional - Instruction: Improve your thought process

http://www.golfchannel.com/news/golftalkcentral/woods-mcilroy-criticized-for-hsbc-no-show/

West Back into Flow on Defensive Live Sept. 4, 2012 Raleigh, N.C. - Redshirt junior defensive end Forrest West made the tough decision to transfer from Colorado after two seasons to come and play for the Wolfpack. After sitting out last season, West was able to don a Wolfpack uniform this past weekend in the season opener in Atlanta. "I was a little rusty," said West. "I really didn't have a pregame ritual like I usually pick up as the season goes on. "It was exciting. It was a big game, the fans had high energy. It felt kind of weird, it felt like my first game my freshman year because I have not played in over a year. The first couple of drives, I got right back where I left off (from Colorado)." West played two seasons with the Buffaloes, including a selection to the Freshman All-Big 12 team in 2009, but decided to join the Pack last summer. Unfortunately, NCAA rules required West to sit out last season. "The year went by pretty slow, I didn't have much to look forward to on the weekends," said West. "I wasn't allowed to travel because of NCAA rules, so I haven't been able to feel that game day experience for awhile." West got the game day experience in the Pack's season opener against Tennessee. He came off the bench to play 31 snaps at defensive end, and recorded one QB pressure. "I'm glad that first game is under my belt," said West. "I was kind of like a deer in headlights that first play, but now it's all good." Now the second week of the Pack's season might bring even more excitement for West. He is from Canton, Connecticut, which is about a five-minute drive from UConn's home stadium, Rentschler Field. "I'm excited to be going back home," said West. "I have a whole bunch of family and friends coming, about 50 people. It's going to be different, I've never played up there. I've never actually been to a game at Rentschler Field. Despite the Pack's opening loss to the Vols, West and his teammates know there is plenty of time to have a memorable season. West knows time on the practice field will help him become a better player "I'm a much more physical player (then at Colorado)," said West. "The tempo is a lot faster (here), so you have to adapt to that and pick it up."

http://www.gopack.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/090412aaa.html

2010: Played in one game ... Saw action against Presbyterian (11/6). 2009: Did not see game action. Prior to Stony Brook: Spent one season at Carson-Newman College. High School: A 2007 graduate of Good Counsel High School ... a two-year letterwinner for the Falcons ... earned all-county, all-state and all-met honors ... served as team captain as a senior. Personal: Born Aswand Cruikshank on January 8, 1989 in Silver Spring, Maryland ... son of Neil and Debra Cruikshank ... has one sister ... majoring in multidisciplinary studies.

http://www.goseawolves.org/sports/m-footbl/mtt/cruikshank_aswand00.html

Memphis Wins C-USA Regular-Season Crown with 78-66 Victory At Tulsa March 3, 2012 TULSA, Okla. - Using an 18-3 run to begin the second half, Memphis (23-8, 13-3 C-USA) claimed the Conference USA regular-season title outright with a 78-66 win at Tulsa (17-13, 10-6 C-USA) on Saturday. Will Barton, the leading scorer in C-USA, poured in a career-high 30 points to become the 47th Tiger to reach the 1,000-point plateau and only the ninth player to hit the milestone in just two seasons. Barton entered the game 19 points shy of 1,000 for his career. After scoring 17 in the first half, the Baltimore, Md, native opened the second half with two free throws and cemented himself in the Tigers' record books. Barton also pulled down a game-high-tying nine rebounds. Senior Wesley Witherspoon connected on 5-of-7 field goal attempts, including 3-of-4 from long range, en route to scoring 13 points. Witherspoon tied Barton with a game-high nine boards. Memphis finished the game shooting 54.7 percent (29-for-53) from the floor with 19 assists to only 13 turnovers. Tulsa connected on 44.0 percent (22-for-50) of its shots. Three Golden Hurricanes finished in double-figures, led by Jordan Clarkson with 18 points. Steven Idlet added 13 points and Scottie Haralson chipped in 10. After Memphis built a double-digit lead early in the game, Tulsa put together an 8-0 run to end the half and cut the Tigers advantage to three, 37-34. Will Barton went down 35-seconds into the game after a Tulsa player landed on his leg following a fastbreak layup. Barton returned to the game a moment later and scored 17 first-half points. Crawford dished out five assists and Jackson scored nine points. The win gives Memphis a first-round bye in the C-USA Championship, which the Tigers are hosting at FedExForum beginning on Wednesday. Check GoTigersGo.com for the latest information on the Tigers and the C-USA tourney.

http://www.gotigersgo.com/sports/m-baskbl/recaps/030312aaa.html

Memphis Men's Cross Country Team Finishes Fifth Oct. 16, 1999 Memphis, Tenn.- - The men's team was again led by junior Christian Schmallegger (Leoben, Austria) en route 111 points for a fifth-place finish at the University of Memphis Invitational at Plough Park, Saturday. Schamallegger finished eighth in 26:14.13 while teammate Balsz Laszlo rounded out the top 10 in 26:47.64. Tiger Kevin Foltz (Flushing, MI/Flushing) finished 18th in 27:18.83, while Robert Goode (Mason, OH/WM Mason) and Lee Eilert (Germantown, TN) finished 37th and 38th, respectively, to complete the Tiger scoring. Southern Mississippi, a team nationally-ranked and favored to win Conference-USA, placed four runners in the top five to capture the team title with 21 points. Jackson State's David Rop won the individual title with a 24:40.73 time for the 8K course. The University of Idaho (58), Arkansas-Little Rock (79), Jackson State (100), Mississippi (150), Arkansas State (166), West Alabama (227) and Belhaven University (234) completed the field. The men's team is off until the Conference USA Championships in two weeks at UNC-Charlotte.

http://www.gotigersgo.com/sports/m-track/spec-rel/101699aaa.html

Wide receiver Kendall Kelly from Gadsden (Ala.) City High School will visit Tennessee this weekend, the News Sentinel has learned from a member of the Gadsden City football office. The 6-foot-3, 215-pound Kelly is also considering Alabama, LSU and Clemson. Auburn had been in the running but was unable to secure a visit from Kelly. Kelly’s teammate, cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick, will not join Kelly in Knoxville. Kirkpatrick, who’s considering Alabama, Florida and Texas, took an unofficial visit to UT in September. Kirkpatrick underwent shoulder surgery on Wednesday and had to cancel a planned trip to LSU. Alabama is thought to be the favorite to land Kirkpatrick.

http://www.govolsxtra.com/news/2009/jan/29/wr-ward-visit-ut/

Tuesday, August 4, 2009 © Copyright 2013 Gwinnett Daily Post With the Arena Football League on the verge of folding, the Georgia Force released a statement Tuesday saying the team has ceased operations. 'We are disappointed at this outcome for AFL fans, but there was no other viable choice,' Force president Dick Sullivan said in the statement. 'Despite significant efforts on the part of many AFL and team representatives, the league was unable to create a new business model that we and others could support.' James Guidry, the regional director of the AFL players association, told The Associated Press on Tuesday that it 'seems to be inevitable at this point' that the AFL will soon announce that it has ceased operations. Guidry, speaking by telephone, said the players association will accept the owners' decision. 'We're waiting to see if this decision has been finalized by the AFL,' Guidry said. The AFL suspended play for the 2009 season, but some owners expressed hope that the league would return in some form in 2010. David Baker abruptly resigned as league commissioner two days before the 2008 ArenaBowl championship game. Owners did not look for a replacement. The Jon Bon Jovi-owned Philadelphia Soul, the last ArenaBowl champions, appear to have shut down. Their Web site only posts a simple message thanking fans for their support over the past five seasons. The Philadelphia Soul Charitable Foundation has been renamed the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation. Bon Jovi did not immediately return a request for comment. Craig Spencer, another co-owner, declined comment and hung up when asked about the future of the league.

http://www.gwinnettdailypost.com/news/2009/aug/04/georgia-force-to-cease-operations/?sports

Adult Volleyball Camp Postponed One Week Sept. 14, 2009 WASHINGTON, DC - The GW Volleyball Adult Volleyball camp originally scheduled for Sunday, September 20th, has been postponed one week to Sunday, September 27th. The all-day camp will run from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Available spots are limited. Please contact head coach Jojit Coronel at (202) 994-5879 to register. The camp will be held at GW's Lerner Health & Wellness Center located at 2301 G Street, NW.

http://www.gwsports.com/sports/w-volley/spec-rel/091409aaa.html

The Mercedes-Benz Superdome is seen reflected through the window of an office building in downtown New Orleans near sunset. Super Bowl XLVII will be played between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens on February 3, 2013 at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. / Derick E. Hingle, USA TODAY Sports NEW ORLEANS - When they're not talking about the Super Bowl this week, the Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers have been asked repeatedly to ponder their future - as in whether they will be mentally sharp in retirement after years of football. "The scary thing right now is that you just don't know," Ravens center Matt Birk, a 15-year veteran, tells USA TODAY Sports. "There is just so much that is unknown." Ray Lucas can give them a glimpse at what the future may hold. The former NFL quarterback played seven NFL seasons and says he suffered 19 concussions. Now 40, he says he has symptoms that hint at degenerative brain disease. It is a concern shared by some veteran players and those already retired. The death of Junior Seau, who shot himself in the chest in May, has only heightened their worries, especially after researchers from the National Institutes of Health announced this month that their examination of the former all-pro linebacker's brain revealed what many suspected. Seau suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a brain disease that has been linked to the type of repeated head trauma that can occur in football. "If Junior could have gotten some help, maybe he would still be around," says Sean Salisbury, the former quarterback (1987-96) and former ESPN analyst. Lucas and Salisbury are among a group retired players who are taking a proactive role in dealing with possible degenerative brain disease. They have joined a program in in Paterson, N.J., called Pain Alternatives, Solutions and Treatment (P.A.S.T.), which coordinates pro bono medical care and peer-group therapy. Lucas, Salisbury, former wide receiver Charlie Brown, former guard Brent Boyd and former running back Christian Okoye are among those who participate in monthly meetings. "I think we've saved a couple of guys who were contemplating suicide," says Lucas, who is now a peer-group leader. Overcoming a 'tough-guy menality' Since retiring from football, Lucas has worked as a broadcaster in the New York market and undergone three neck surgeries and five knee operations. He has battled depression and addiction to pain-killing medication. At one point, Lucas says it took him several hours to get out of bed each day and he estimated that he swallowed 800 pills per month. In 2010, the married father of three daughters says he contemplated driving his truck off the George Washington Bridge. "I was a drain on my family, thinking, 'They're better off without me,'" he says. "That was a vicious cycle I was on." Lucas says he believes his life was saved by a phone call to Jennifer Smith, who runs the player program at P.A.S.T., which was founded by William Focazio. Lucas underwent several surgeries, went through drug rehab and is now a participant in a concussion program that includes a holistic approach to healing. Patients are prescribed a nutritional diet and hormone therapy intended to address symptoms associated with CTE. Focazio says key objectives are to reduce inflammation in the brain and eliminate toxins that he believes can predispose someone to CTE. Salisbury says the peer-group sessions have been a big help to him as he tries to put his life back together. "This is like Alcoholics Anonymous for a whole bunch of other issues," Salisbury says. "There's no shame in it. You think you've got problems, then you look at the guy next to you and he's worse off than you are. He'll say something like, 'Three weeks ago, I was ready to die.'" Salisbury, 49 and divorced, says he couldn't estimate how many concussions he endured during his playing career but a significant portion were probably undocumented. He has also had multiple neck, back and shoulder surgeries. He left his job with ESPN after a so-called "sexting" scandal, only to get fired from a Dallas radio station. He has been involved with P.A.S.T. since 2010 , and credits the program for helping him manage anger issues and depression. "I was scared," he says. "We grow up with this tough-guy mentality. We're so used to dealing with pain. You think, 'I can fix this. I can make myself better.' While it goes on, though, there's no end point." Salisbury, in town for the Super Bowl, says that Seau's death was one in a series of events that scared him straight. He considered Seau a close friend. "Hopefully, they can find a cure for this, to help slow down this disease," Salisbury says. A looming threat There are many questions and much debate on the CTE issue, though experts generally agree the disease stems from trauma that shakes the brain. "It has affected college kids, high school kids, guys in their 30s, 40s, 50s and 60s. Guys that played a long time, guys that didn't play a long time," Birk says. "There's like no blueprint, where they can say this is why you're at a higher risk." Concussions represent an obvious risk, but researchers also point to relatively low-impact collisions as a possible trigger for developing CTE, which to this point has not been diagnosed until death. Birk, 36, says he has minor memory lapses and wonders if he's at risk, given horror stories linked to post-concussion symptoms. "It's like, 'Oh, my gosh, I can't remember where I put my keys. I can't remember what I opened the refrigerator for,'" says the father of six, citing three concussions since high school. "You try not to overreact. That's part of life. Anybody who's a parent knows. A lot of times, your brain is doing a lot of different things and you're sleep-deprived. I talk to other people my age who are not football players, and they say, 'It happens to me, too.' But you never know." The issue is only growing. More than 4,000 former players are suing the NFL, alleging the league didn't do enough to reveal the dangers of head injuries. A broader spotlight was cast this week when President Obama said during an interview with The New Republic that if he had a son, he isn't sure that he would want him to play football. As a result, players preparing for Super Bowl XLVII are virtually forced to contemplate how the risks, research and tragedies hit home. "I'd be lying if I didn't say that sometimes it scares me," says Ravens safety Bernard Pollard, regarded as one of the NFL's hardest hitters Despite a climate in the NFL for increased safety, Pollard - whose helmet-to-helmet blow knocked Patriots running back Stevan Ridley out of the AFC title game with a concussion - declares that he won't alter his style. He has grumbled that more rules changes will significantly diminish the game. The risks to his own long-term health? "I know what I signed up for," he said. "We play a violent sport. You can't sugarcoat it." Pollard's fellow safety, Ed Reed, contended that Seau willingly signed up for the risk of developing the disease linked to his death. "Junior gave everything he had to football," Reed said during Tuesday's media day session. "I'm sure he's looking down and has no regrets." It is not uncommon to find such a matter-of-fact tone from active players, many of whom have seemingly been conditioned to downplay risks . "Everybody knows the factors," said 49ers defensive tackle Justin Smith. "I don't think anybody's really shocked that you might have damage done to you. It's like any job. There's going to be risk. Ours is physical, and down the road. When you see older players, with all the brain stuff that's been brought up, it's more in the front of everybody's mind. The main thing is you haven't seen anybody quit." Perhaps that's because there are so many questions lacking definitive answers. When does CTE begin? Is it reversible? Can individual risk be identified through gene testing? Is there a relationship between CTE and the use of pain-killing medication? "I think it's entirely possible that if you cannot reverse it, you can wall it off and stop it in its tracks and it never gets worse," says Ann McKee, director at neuropathology at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Bedford, Mass. McKee, who has conducted brain research for more than 26 years, began studying the post-mortem brains of former football players in 2008. She confirms CTE with a microscope, identifying levels of tau protein in the brain tissue. "There seems to be a point in this disease where you go over a critical threshold," McKee says. "You build up enough of this abnormal protein, it affects enough cells, that if you never do anything adverse to your brain in your life, it's going to continue to get worse." A potential breakthrough was revealed this month by Gary Small and Julian Bailes, who collaborated on a study of five living former football players that detected the tau protein associated with CTE. The subjects - the identity was revealed of one, Wayne Clark, 65, a former backup quarterback - were injected with a compound developed by Small and others at UCLA for research into Alzheimer's disease, known as FDDNP, that attaches itself to tau protein and can be detected during a PET (positive emission tomography) scan. Said Bailes, "The hope would be if you could identify them while they are in the early states, they could be treated." Birk wonders if Seau's decision to shoot himself in the chest - the same way former Chicago Bears safety Dave Duerson committed suicide in 2011 - was a final effort to help others. "They knew something was wrong with them," Birk says. "Their depression was so great that they wanted to preserve their brain for study. That's a scary thing. When you think of suicide, you don't think someone would think of it that clearly or that far ahead." Contributing: Gary Mihoces Copyright 2013 USATODAY.com Read the original story: Specter of CTE weighs on Ravens, 49ers' minds

http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/usatoday/article/1878875&usatref=sportsmod

Ignore the gay referee. It gets better after that Video Rating: 4 / 5 Short Film– A visual recreation of Andy Griffith’s classic radio comedy routine. Video Rating: 4 / 5 Tags: football, Funny Check out my channel! Each Subscriber saves an african child! lol ninja head kick at 3:14 1;10 tubes lol Eat my dick. I would appreciate it if you checked out the Facebook page: You Think Giving Birth Is Hard? Try Sneezing While Taking A Piss Thumbs Up if you typed “Funny” in search box! lol this funny Like if Poopface haideti la referendum !! o sa castigam lupta cu basescu liberte egalite fraternite Check out My ENTERTAINING VIDEOS Thanks.. I would Greatly Appreciate it! like if you just got bored and searched “funny” and got here. Kiss ur hand five times repost this and look under ur pillow pink ipod STEP 1 Wanna see summin funny??? Click ‘Stick Animater’ Next to my comment… STEP 2 Click ‘Videos’ STEP 3 Click ‘Dancing Pig (Chocolotay) STEP 4 Post this on your facebook CHECK OUT THE “PENN STATE REMIX”. GOT 4,000 HITS IN 3 DAYS referee upgraded to SERIE A italian soccer league after incredible bad decision referee Mr. MASSA from Imperia 0:47 What is the name of the main song? anyone..? Hildy Baby go and get yourself a good boyfriend, when you are positive he is a good man, ask him to marry you, have children and be happy. Spectator sports, bah humbug. He is-was-and will always be an original the likes we may never see again. This video speaks for itself…. Just me? No, it’s the hundreds of millions of people worldwide who watch spectator sports. I think that counts as “us”. Cheers Tim, I never did have a lot of respect for the majority who tried to bamboozle me. Read the credits. Well said – sadly the neanderthal majority gave you so many comments the comment is hidden. You got my thumbs up. Thank you Andy for this great routine, and thank you Doctor Demento for frequently playing this gem for us! And nice work on the video, Eat A Peach! Griffith’s skill at playing a lovable rube was first established in this comedic monologue about a country bumpkin attending a college football game. This led to his being invited to appear on the Ed Sullivan show in 1954. Does anyone know who “wrote” this monologue or did Andy write it himself? Anybody know. Kinda reminds me of Forrest Gump in that Tom Hanks movie of the same name, no? RIP Lovable Rube! They don’t make entertainers like this much any more! Sigh. R.I.P. Andy Griffith This goes back to my father’s days of visiting Kenan Stadium. I particularly appreciate featuring Choo Choo Justice, who was the Tar Heels’ All-American in Andy’s student days. Someday if I ever become a Couch Potato like you Hildy, I may understand. No offense meant. Take it as its meant, with a grin. Why do people always say; us, and ours, and we, instead of what it is which is I. Fortunately for us, your understanding is not required. Never could understand the craze of watching sports more than once or twice, now playing sports is another thing, but watching it………….. Modern Hollywood could re-learn (or learn) from Andy Griffith. The creative arts can promote healthy, wholesome values and attitudes without being campy and “disneyesque”. oh they let him back in…for Andy’s sake. Thanks for the memories, Andy. You will be missed. RIP, old friend. Ernest ant thar numore. He got kicked out fer rock thro-n dont forget goober Thanks Andy for the laughs! What's new in sports?

http://www.heirofgrace.com/football/funny-football.html

Sometimes, love hurts. Max King can attest to that. He was in pain on Saturday and loving every minute of it. “Wow! That hurt!” he exclaimed as he crossed the finish line of his first JFK 50 Mile ultramarathon, just in front of Williamsport’s Springfield Middle School. His agony was ecstasy. What wasn’t there to love? King won the race. It wasn’t just any race, run on just any course to achieve just any accomplishment. He covered the 50.2-mile course in a record 5 hours, 34 minutes and 58 seconds to win the milestone 50th edition of “America’s Ultramarathon,” the largest, oldest and quite possibly most prestigious such event in the country. King averaged 6:42 per mile on a rocky course with as many ups and downs as Lindsay Lohan’s career. And in the completion of the daunting process, King shattered the race record by nearly six minutes. That mark of 5:40:45 was the latest unbeatable mark set by David Riddle just last year, which eclipsed the previously unbeatable mark of 5:46:22 set by Eric Clifton in 1994. For anyone keeping track, that’s 11 minutes, 24 seconds shaved off the impossible in just two years. As John Mellencamp says, that’s why it hurt so good. But with one look around the finishing area, it was easy to see that King’s misery loves company. The JFK started as a fitness run before evolving into one of distance running’s holy grails. The notion was born as a health initiative for the military and U.S. citizens by two presidents — first Teddy Roosevelt some 100 years ago as an objective for military officers, before being retooled by John F. Kennedy to promote public fitness in 1963. It’s now the ultimate test for specialized world-class athletes and Joe Joggers alike. For some God-forsaken reason, they find pleasure touring the sites between Boonsboro and Williamsport — a 10-mile trip via car — on foot. They would rather climb and descend on the rough terrain known as the Appalachian Trail before running a marathon on the C&O Canal towpath. Then, it’s topped off by traversing the hilly, paved roadways of Washington County before heading for home — or to school, in this case. Wow! That hurts! One by one, runners trickled across the finish line. In the old days, they would find a patch of ground and lay there until the senses they abandoned hours ago caught up with them. Now, it’s different … much, much different. Parasiliti: Limits of love, pain put to test by JFK 50 Bob Parasiliti (Joe Crocetta / April 15, 2012)

http://www.herald-mail.com/sports/hm-parasiliti-column-limits-of-love-pain-put-to-test-by-jfk-50-20121118,0,181878.story

Illinois man dies in Fla. hang gliding accident Published: Sunday, February 3, 2013 at 10:03 a.m. Last Modified: Sunday, February 3, 2013 at 10:03 a.m. GROVELAND - Authorities say an Illinois man has died in a hang gliding accident in central Florida. The Lake County Sheriff's Office says 27-year-old Zachary James Marzec crashed Saturday on the runway at a small airport in Groveland. Investigators say it appears that Marzec's hang glider malfunctioned, causing it to fall to the ground. Marzec was taken to a hospital, where he died about an hour after the crash. Authorities did not release his hometown.

http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20130203/WIRE/130209901/0/sports?Title=Illinois-man-dies-in-Fla-hang-gliding-accident

CHERRYBROOK Carlile Swimming Club last month capped off its best finish at the NSW State Age Championships with a fourth place in the club championship pointscore. It was a significant achievement for Cherrybrook, which formed five years ago. They join the state's best performing clubs at the under 13s to 18s level. A club spokeswoman said the achievement was a big step in the club's development. "We've invested a lot of time and effort to give our junior swimmers the best opportunity to succeed," the spokeswoman said. "It's very pleasing to see our top-level coaching has produced a lot of young talented swimmers who are dominating at district and state levels." Cherrybrook had 27 swimmers in the under 13 to 18s category qualify for the finals, in 39 events. The club finished the finals with six gold, nine silver and three bronze medals. One of the gold medal winners to impress at the championships was the Cherrybrook's girls 4 x 50 metre medley relay team. Brooke Mindham, Siobhan O'Malley, Samantha Ying and Bronte Aiken combined to edge out their nearest rivals by three seconds and win the final with a finishing time of 2mins 3.70 sec. The result was a big shock for Brooke and her teammates, who were overwhelmed to win their first gold medal on the big stage. "We were all hugging and celebrating on the pool deck because this is our biggest victory together," Brooke said. Vincent Dai was another winner, with three gold medals, in the 100-metres butterfly and 50-metre and 100-metre freestyle. The 15-year-old broke two championship records in his two freestyle finals.

http://www.hillsnews.com.au/story/1277458/club-grabs-big-swag-of-state-medals/?src=rss

Classified and Mic Boyd to take part in 2011 Juno Cup tomorrow night, March 25 in Toronto [News] Toronto, ON – “It’s one of Canada’s greatest hockey rivalries – the giants of Canadian music face off against the greats of the NHL. Sure, it’s for charity… but that doesn’t mean it will be friendly!” Music and hockey come together this Juno Weekend with the 2011 Juno Cup featuring The Rockers vs. NHL Greats. Canadian hip-hop will be represented by East coast MCs Classified and his brother Mic Boyd. Click the jump for a full list of artists and celebrities taking part in the game. Ricoh Coliseum (100 Princes’ Boulevard) will play home to the Friday, March 25th event which starts at 7:30 p.m. Two of Canada’s favourite pastimes – hockey and music – come together for an all-out clash of the titans during Juno Cup, a celebrity hockey game in support of MusiCounts, Canada’s music education charity associated with CARAS. The game sees former NHL Greats competing with Canadian artists and celebrities for bragging rights on the ice. Artist and celebrity guests include: Jim Cuddy (Blue Rodeo), Andrew Scott (Sloan), Barney Bentall, Brad Keller (Creaking Tree String Quartet), Brian Kobayakawa (Creaking Tree String Quartet), Bryan Crouch (Hail the Villain), Chris Murphy (Sloan), Classified, Mic Boyd, Dustin Bentall, George Canyon, Greg Millson (Great Lake Swimmers), Jay Bodner (Eagle & Hawk), Jon Gallant (Billy Talent), Johnny Max (Johnny Max Band), Kathleen Edwards, Kevin Parent, Menno Versteeg (Hollerado), Michael Hollett (NOW Magazine), Mike Belitsky (The Sadies), Paul Aucoin (The Hylozoists), Peter Kesper (NQ Arbuckle), Rob Higgins (Dearly Beloved), Ron MacLean (Hockey Night In Canada), Sean Dean (The Sadies), Sarah Harmer, Tyler Armes (Down With Webster), Vince Fontaine (Eagle & Hawk). NHL Greats include: Mark Napier, Brad Dalgarno, Derek King, Gary Leeman, Gary Roberts, Mike Pelyk, Paul Coffey, Russ Courtnall, Troy Crowder, Valeri Bure For more information and ticket purchase click here.

http://www.hiphopcanada.com/2011/03/classified-and-mic-boyd-to-take-part-in-2011-juno-cup-tomorrow-night-march-25-in-toronto-news/

Pronger is a cocksucker. He should get suspended. also pronger is a ****. if he was about to meet with enforcer he would he would play runaway bride. He sucks. would never fight someone like McGrattan or so... Simply *****.. Pronger is and always has been a goon and a cheap shot artist. He always fights the smaller guys and ducks (no pun intended) guys of equal size or toughness. The shot was after the whistle, not okay but leave it to Pronger to jump Handzus, he would not have jumped Ivannis or Laroque or Boogard. I agree when a guy shoots at the goal, he needs to pay for that if it is after the whistle or the buzzer. I just remember the cheap shots he delivered in the play offs and with his record, he should have been administered the penalty of a suspension, why?... It was in OT, period and he was the instigator so named and penalized. There, said my piece.. but I hate the Ducks with my very soul so it may be a little biased...LOL... How about the hit on Corey Perry ... Clean and a thing of beauty. Then they send out Parros to run Brad stuart in retaliation and Stuart avoids the check and nails Parros with a hard check and a face wash. Love the rivalry, hate the Ducks.

http://www.hockeyfights.com/fights/38010/7

what a great fight, calling it an 8 and a win to mcquaid. i am embarassed to say i've never heard of either of these two fellers. i would be pumped if i was in a fight good enough to make zdeno friggin' chara stand up in excitement. Hey brokenleg/mcb, looks liek the Bruins have left your Habs behind. Must be killing you especially since it was the 3-0 win that sent the Bruins on their way. As for this fight, you cant go wrong picking the opposite of brokenhead, easy win for McQuaid.

http://www.hockeyfights.com/fights/92531

If Pahlsson is a tank for playing 275, what does Pando get for 283? You'll remember that Madden has won the Selke before. Madden and Pandolfo are the two best shut down checking forwards in the game. Look at how Pandolfo was able to stifle Jagr in all of thier meetings. I think Pandolfo should get it.

http://www.hockeyfights.com/forums/1024317-post5.html

Watched by Vancouver Canucks Dan Hamhuis, Montreal Canadiens Tomas Plekanec tries to get the puck under control in the second period of a regular season NHL game at Rogers Arena, March 10 2012. (Gerry Kahrmann / PNG Staff Photo) Habs vs Canucks Saturday, March 10, 2012 Leave a Comment You must be logged in to post a comment.

http://www.hockeyinsideout.com/habs-vs-canucks-saturday-march-10-2012?pid=2559

INGOLSTADT – It was the unsung heroes that stood up when Germany needed a boost to make it to the gold medal game of the 2012 IIHF InLine Hockey World Championship. Goalkeeper Jochen Vollmer was one of them. He saved 34 out of 36 shots in his best game of the tournament. Felix Schütz was another. His name derives from the German word “Schütze” according to popular belief. It usually means shooter in general, or Sagittarius for those who are into astrology. In sports it can also mean goal scorer. And that’s exactly what Schütz did the day before the gold medal game…score goals. Originally in the third line, he was promoted to play more shifts in the last period and perfectly gelled with second-line forward Patrick Buzas, who fed him with two nice passes as Schütz scored both the game-tying and game-winning goal in the 3-2 semi-final victory over Finland. “I’ve known him for many years. We’ve played together ice hockey in Ingolstadt. He made two nice assists that made it easy for me to score,” Schütz said. “I heard we had never made it to the final before. It’s great. We gel well together, we have fun and now we want to win again,” he added. It’s a perfect tournament for the 24-year-old, who represented his country in four IIHF Ice Hockey World Championships, most recently last month in Stockholm. In 2010, when Germany sensationally reached fourth place on home ice, he was selected as one of the best three players of the team by head coach Uwe Krupp. Until this year, he hadn’t played inline hockey at the international stage before. Schütz was born not far away from Ingolstadt in Erding and developed in several German clubs before trying his skills in North America, where he played two years in the QMJHL (Saint John, Val-d’Or) before signing with the Buffalo Sabres. In the Sabres organization he played two years for the AHL’s Portland Pirates before going back to Europe. He returned to Germany where he played for Ingolstadt before transferring to Cologne in October. In his native region of Bavaria not only ice hockey is popular, but many players also enjoy switching skates for rollerblades in the summer months. “Inline hockey is fun and I also play in the league. We founded a team in Erding where I come from and I’ve been playing there for two years,” Schütz said. “It’s fun, it’s similar to ice hockey and we have a great atmosphere in our team.” “I’m living not far away from Ingolstadt and was asked if I wanted to join,” Schütz said. And he immediately accepted the invitation. Today at 19:00 at the Saturn Arena, which is expected to be sold out, the Germans will face Canada in their first-ever gold medal game. This game as well as three others today will be streamed live and for free on IIHF.com. “They’re big. You can’t play too much of a body-contact game compared to the ice hockey rules, but they play hard. They’re not in the final for nothing. We have to be ready,” Schütz said. In the preliminary round Canada won the clash between the two teams thanks to Dave Hammond’s game-winning goal 13 seconds before the end of regulation time. “In the final it will be a totally different game that can’t be compared to the preliminary round,” Schütz said. “Everybody will be at a maximum emotional level and then it will be small details that can decide. Hopefully luck will be on our side.”

http://www.iihf.com/home-of-hockey/news/news-singleview/browse/11/recap/7031.html?tx_ttnews%5BbackPid%5D=187&cHash=073a7d5b94

UFA – The Russian U20 national team’s coaching staff owns the most titles at the World Juniors in Ufa. Mikhail Varnakov and Vladimir Myshkin can boast a combined 11 titles at various levels. In June last year, the 54-year-old Varnakov was appointed as head coach of the Russian U20 national team. He replaced successful coach Valeri Bragin, who won World Junior gold in 2011 and silver in 2012. Bragin left the team to lead CSKA Moscow. It was Zinetula Bilyaletdinov, the head coach of the men’s national team, who recommended hiring Varnakov. From 1979 to 1987 they played for the Soviet national team and for Dynamo Moscow during the North American tour in the 1985/1986 season. After this they worked together as coaches at Dynamo Moscow (1997-2000, 2002-2004) and Ak Bars Kazan (2006-2008). “Bill,” as Bilyaletdinov is nicknamed, thought that Varnakov would use a style of play and ideas similar to his on the junior team. At the same time as Varnakov came on board, Vladimir Myshkin became the goaltending coach for all Russian national teams. Varnakov and Myshkin got to know each other with the club Krylya Sovietov Moscow when it was on tour against NHL teams at the end of 1978. The line of Alexander Skvortsov – Vladimir Kovin – Mikhail Varnakov from Torpedo Gorky (now Nizhny Novgorod) was invited by the Moscow team. It became the best line and scored more goals than any other. That was the way how Varnakov piqued the interest of Soviet national team coach Viktor Tikhonov, despite turning down the chance to play for Tikhonov’s club team, CSKA Moscow. Tikhonov took Varnakov and Myshkin to the 1979 Challenge Cup, a series of three games between the USSR national team and an NHL All-Star Team in New York. In the crucial third game, the “Red Machine” won 6-0, and goalie Myshkin became famous, as he played in place of starter Vladislav Tretiak. Varnakov also did his part. In the second game, which the guests won 5-4, he scored the second goal to reduce the deficit to 3-2. However, Varnakov was not invited to play at the 1979 IIHF World Championship or the 1980 Olympics. He waited for six long years to debut at the World Championship, but during this period he did participate in Transatlantic series against NHL clubs and at the 1984 Canada Cup. Varnakov loved to play against Canada – although in that country he is best known for being on a 2-on-1 with Kovin during the semi-final of the ‘84 Canada Cup, which Paul Coffey broke up just before the overtime winner was scored by Mike Bossy. He also played against Team USA’s Phil Housley, now head coach of the U.S. U20 national team, for the first time one year later in a 7-4 win of Dynamo Moscow against the Buffalo Sabres. Varnakov scored a lot, but for the 1984 Olympic Games in Sarajevo, Tikhonov invited only Skvortsov and Kovin while their usual linemate was left off the national team. The coach was not pleased with Varnakov’s decision not to play for CSKA. After the success in the 1979 Challenge Cup, Myshkin's career thrived. At the 1980 Olympics in Lake Placid he replaced Vladislav Tretiak in the famous “Miracle on Ice” loss to the United States. Varnakov made his debut in an official IIHF tournament only in 1985. It was the World Championship in Prague, where the Soviet national team won bronze. But Varnakov was in good standing, and a year later he participated in Moscow and won his first World Championship gold medal. In the next World Championship in Vienna his history with the national team came to an end as did Bilyaletdinov’s. Myshkin wasn't called to play on home ice in 1986. On his place 19-year-old prospect Belosheikin got the call. Myshkin’s national team career was interrupted for three years. Tikhonov didn't forget a curious mistake of his goalie in a 2-1 defeat against Czechoslovakia when Vladimir Ruzicka opened the score. Fortunately, Myshkin was invited to play in the 1989 and 1990 World Championships, albeit as a backup. Varnakov’s coaching career is not as rich in titles. He was coaching his hometown club Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod and Amur Khabarovsk. Prior to his appointment with the U20 national team he worked for a small team, Sarov, in the second-tier league VHL. But as Bilyaletdinov’s assistant coach, he won two championships in 2000 with Dynamo Moscow and in 2006 with Ak Bars Kazan. He hit rock bottom when Salavat Yulayev Ufa ousted Ak Bars in the 2008 play offs. He was blamed for everything. Some players said they disliked working with him and alleged that he was checking the car’s temperature to find out whether they were having a party. But Bilyaletdinov didn’t drop a friend who was in trouble. Now they are back together. Of course, Varnakov is doomed to be compared with the previous U20 coach Bragin in light of Russia’s U20 success over the last two years, even though the squad is not stronger than it was previously. To play on home ice with huge expectations certainly doesn’t reduce the pressure. Varnakov's debut with the team was difficult. In the summer series against Canada, dedicated to the 40th anniversary of the epochal 1972 Super Series, the Russian team won twice, and lost once in regulation and once in overtime. During the November tour in Canada Varnakov's team won half of the six games against the all-star teams of the OHL, QMJHL and WHL. “We know how to play against Canadians,” the head coach said. “It is unlikely that they would surprise us.” After losing the last Preliminary Round game against the team with the red Maple Leaf, Varnakov didn’t hide his thoughts. “We lost because of a stupid penalty,” he said. “The Canadians shouldn’t be given such an opportunity. Some of our forwards didn’t do a good job.” Myshkin, on the other hand, is very diplomatic. He doesn’t speak a lot to journalists. He adopted this habit after five years on the coaching staff of Swiss club HC Davos.

http://www.iihf.com/se/home-of-hockey/news/news-singleview/browse/7/recap/7448.html?tx_ttnews%5BbackPid%5D=187&cHash=c01236d2f9

TURKU, Finland – Erkka Westerlund is back. The former Finnish national coach is also the future Finnish national coach, the Finnish Ice Hockey Association announced today. Westerlund signed a one-year deal that will see him take over from Jukka Jalonen after the 2013 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship in Stockholm and Helsinki and coach the national team in the 2014 Olympics in Sochi and the World Championship in Minsk later the same year. “It was a fantastic offer, I didn’t hesitate a moment. I’ve been a coach for 40 years, and when you get offered an opportunity like this, you can’t say no,” said Westerlund. “It’s going to be a tough season, with both the Olympics and the World Championship, plus all the Euro Hockey Tour tournaments, so we’ll be busy from August all the way through May,” he told in an MTV3 interview. Westerlund was the head coach between 2005 and 2007, and coached Finland to an Olympic final in 2006 and a World Championship final in 2007, and to bronze medals in the 2006 World Championship in Riga. “Our plan was to put everything together by Christmas, but with all the public speculation, we decided to speed up the process,” said Kalervo Kummola, the chairman of the Finnish association and IIHF Vice President. “We returned to our first choice,” he added. Westerlund’s assistants will be Lauri Marjamäki, former head coach of the U20 national team, and currently with Espoo Blues, and Hannu Virta, former national team player and Westerlund’s assistant both at Jokerit Helsinki in 2011/2012 and with the national team during Westerlund’s first tenure. “We’re very pleased with the choice, and the assistants that Erkka chose,” said Kummola. “This is a team, it’s an entity and I think we have a great coaching staff here, we all can focus on the things we're best at. This is not a one-man show,” said Westerlund. When Westerlund stepped down in 2007, he called the media circus around the national team “a Muppet show”, a quote that the reporters remembered well. He was asked about his motivation to return to the centre stage. “I was about to begin this press conference by asking if all the muppets were here, but I didn’t have the guts,” said Westerlund, laughing. “Let’s start a new show,” he added.

http://www.iihf.com/sk/home-of-hockey/news/news-singleview/recap/7307.html?tx_ttnews%5BbackPid%5D=181&cHash=8d6f333404

MONDAY, March 3rd 2003, 8:00 PM Sanctioning For Safety... Not For Profit! MORE Mis-Management Of Fighters Health! Amateur Fighter Gets KO'ed Twice in 1 Week! Last week there were some e-mails going around about another so called kickboxing sanctioning body named the IKC based out of the South East, USA. Behind the organization is a Pro Boxer in Louisiana named James Johnson (Right) who "Claims" to have won 2 legit boxing titles (IBF Intercontinental Welterweight Title yet he is not in the top 15 of the official IBF Rankings & The WBF America' s Welterweight Title - Where he is not in the top 10 in their rankings either.). Johnson has never fought as a kickboxer, been a kickboxing official or even promoted "1" kickboxing event before in his life. However, he claims to be more than qualified to run a kickboxing sanctioning body. Several IKF officials shared in e-mail being past between the IKF here, Johnson and the Louisiana State Boxing Commission. Why did we get involved? Mainly because Johnson was telling people we recommended he call them, as if we endorsed his organization and his event. We didn't and we don't! Johnson wanted to get immediate recognition for his new start-up IKC since he knew NOTHING of the Kickboxing game. However, his choice of marketing backfired on him. In e-mails he wrote, and we quote, "This organization was started by Daryl Peoples with the IBF (Boxing Organization) and the Louisiana State Athletic Commission." He also claimed that we here at the IKF referred several IKF ranked fighters to him as well, which we never did. It was obvious he was trying to claim endorsements from people who had nothing to do with him. Johnson had booked 3 amateur fighters to fight their first pro fight on his event. Why was this a problem? Because they were all booked for 12 round PRO World Title Bouts! It was a disgrace to kickboxing as well as the fans who paid money for a ticket to Johnson's PRO event who THOUGHT they were going to see 4 TRUE World Contending Professional Kickboxers. Simply put, the sport of Kickboxing and those fans were ROBBED! After several of these e-mails being past and several phone calls to the Louisiana State Boxing Commissioners and even the Boxing organizations he claims to hold titles in, we found out more about Johnson and his credibility went to ZERO as a promoter, kickboxing official and even as a Pro Boxing Champion. In the end, after our investigating, we thought it was all over... That is until we get an e-mail from another Louisiana Promoter, Joe Ancona today. In Ancona's e-mail, he reports that a fighter we've known here with the IKF named Omar Ballard from Columbus, Mississippi, USA fought on his February 15th event, "BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS". Some of you may know Ancona as well. He's the New Orleans Louisiana, USA Promoter who sent out mass e-mails claiming that the IKF and the ISCF were sanctioning his events. Well, we never sanctioned ANY! ?He would have continued doing so if not for a "Reply To All" mass return mail we sent out announcing that his claims were not true. Back to Johnson... According to Ancona, Ballard fought a fighter named Calvin Hotard from LaPlace, Louisiana, USA. From Ancona's report, Hotard defeated Ballard by KO! Now here is where we have a problem. "ONE WEEK LATER" this IKC group and James Johnson booked Ballard for his FIRST PRO FIGHT on February 21st in Shreveport, Louisiana, USA. But it gets better. The fight Johnson booked him for (In his first pro fight) was a 12 round IKC World Title Fight! Oh but it gets better yet... In THAT BOUT, Ballard was Knocked Out AGAIN only 1 week after being stopped on Ancona's event. We often wonder why some promoters choose to start their own sanctioning body. Here we see that Johnson did so just so he could promote (His FIRST Kickboxing Event) what the fans THOUGHT were "TWO" Pro Kickboxing World Title Bouts! It's people like Johnson who continue to destroy our sport while organizations like the IKF as well as the ISCF for Mixed Martial Arts (The ONLY non promoting - neutral sanctioning body for MMA in the world today) work HARD to assure fighter safety as well as sanction Legitimate Title Bouts. What was Johnson's response to all this when we confronted him through an e-mail? Let us quote his response to our FIRST Mail: (Spelling errors left in) "If that is how you feel then so be it. I startted a legitimate organization. I have covered all of my actions. I am a licensed promoter and profiessional fighter with several state athletic commissions. I have also registered the IKC with the Louisiana Secretary of State. As for your amateur rankings. That is your organization and you should see to it-not mine. I can and will grow the IKC. I am a legitimate champion. I have payed my dues so as far as I am concerned-I am qualified! I have promoted an IBF & WBF boxing match in which I performed and was victorious. You say that our ref counted as a fighter was down. I was sitting ringside with the LA athletic commissioner and we both saw Ballard hit several times on his way down, but not once was he hit down as he was then counted out. Our ref has refereed about a dozen PKA fights so his qualifications have been met as far as we are concerned. As for using your organization name-that in fact was never brought up. If for some reason you have taken any of this reply the wrong way-I do apoligize. You must remember that I am a fighter-not a runner. If I am going to be accused of anything that I have done or not done-you can bank on me dealing with it.... "Gentleman" James Johnson again-my IKC is and will continue to be the kickboxing organization of the South." From his response, we thought, since he's "a fighter-not a runner" we decided to investigate some of his claims. So we contacted several people and heard quite a bit about this guy. We started with Mr. Fielder Lewis, (337 828-7154) Chairman of the Louisiana State Boxing Commission who said they had NOTHING to do with his IKC Organization. He told us he had told Johnson he needed to work with a Certified Sanctioning Body for kickboxing to oversee his events if he wanted to promote kickboxing in Louisiana. Well heck, all Johnson did after this was put some letters together... IKC... Lewis referred us to Mr. Buddy Embanato, (318 801-2999) the Louisiana Boxing Event Coordinator. We also contacted Mr. Alvin Topham, (337 304-0836) the state commissioner that was at Johnson's February 21st fight. In this bout, witnesses informed us that Ballard was dropped to the ring floor from a low kick to the groin. While down, he was hit AGAIN and dropped. From there, the referee (Who Johnson informed us was well qualified since he had done "12" PKA fights years ago...wow... only 12 fights...Ya, WELL qualified!) counted him out. This of course awarded Johnson's fighter his IKC Pro World Title. The terrible actions of the Referee were confirmed by the Louisiana State Athletic Commission that was in attendance. He confirmed the referee made a bad call when Ballard was punched while on one knee. In his own words he told us, "He was not good at all and made several mistakes throughout the night." However he added, there was no IKC Representative to over-rule the call or accept any protest. We won't say who but we were told by one of the Louisiana Boxing Commissioners that Johnson never even promoted a Boxing event and the guys he fought to win his IBF and WBF Titles had a records of something like 2-35. (Confirmed by FIGHT FAX, INC, 590 South Lenola Road, PMB 239 Maple Shade, NJ 08052-1602, 856-638-0505, fax-856-231-1788) We went a step farther and contacted Mr. Daryl Peoples of the IBF (973 414-0307). He was clear that he didn't know Johnson very well to work with him on anything and had NOTHING to do with his IKC Organization. Several of these guys went on to tell us how terrible a boxer Johnson is. So OK, we proved the guy can't box, but our concern is the SAFETY of the fighters here! These fights were only 1 week apart. It's clear Johnson made a matchmakers error in putting a first time amateur into a 12 round PRO bout. Not only did he jeopardize these fighters safety but he CHEATED true kickboxing fans. If any of you reading this were there, we suggest you go get your money back. YOU WERE ROBBED! This is what happens in our sport. Was Johnson's senseless act an attempt to make Pro Kickboxers look like amateurs as compared to PRO BOXERS? So when the fans think those Kickboxers fighting for a PRO Kickboxing World Title are not very good for QUALIFIED PROS to fight for a World Title, the first thing they say is "Man, Boxing has a lot better fighters fighting for World Titles. They must just let ANYONE do it in Kickboxing." It's clear to us in Kickboxing that guys like Johnson are hurting EVERYONE in Kickboxing by doing this! Everyone who works hard in making our sport LEGIT and FAR MORE EXCITING THAN BOXING! In one of his next response e-mails Johnson said: "this kickboxing thing has gotten all carried away and is not worth all of the hassle. I will continue to promote boxing until we feel kickboxing is more recognized." "More recognized?" Well with quality promoters like Johnson out there, we may have to wait for that. How many other promoters have their own sanctioning bodies? How many more don't even sanction at all? Who is looking out for these fighters? WHO cares for their safety? It's clear Ballard as well as his trainer (O. Miller) didn't care as well. You would think after reading or hearing about past deaths in kickboxing (Although only 2, it's 2 too many...) his trainer would have NEVER even booked his fights so close let alone let him fight his first pro fight, a 12 round bout, 1 week after being stopped on another show... Consider this news a warning to any trainer out there such as Ballards who could obviously care less for his fighters safety. Having been stopped by TKO/KO only 1 week before, it's clear that he kept this fight for the money! Money must have been worth more than his fighters life. Maybe Ballard felt fine and maybe he didn't even know about taking time off after a knockout. However, his trainer SHOULD HAVE KNOWN! So in the end, there is a need for sanctioning, as long as it is done by a credibly organization that is willing to step up and oversee fighters safety and assure that todays kickboxing fight fans get what they THINK or are told they are paying for. We make a lot of noise here at the IKF about the other things that make us stand above other organizations such as updated Pro "AND" Amateur Rankings, daily news, upcoming events list, past champions info and much more. But the foundation of any true sanctioning body as it is with the IKF and ISCF is to assure the safety and regulate the rules of those who participate in our sport. Next time you go to an event, don't be afraid to question WHO is sanctioning the event? as well as "Who is the sanctioning organizations representative?" you will need to know who to go to if you have an issue about something. A sanctioning body is there to protect you as a fighter and to assure qualified officials are there to oversee and work your event and assure your safety and best interest. And finally... "Sanctioning Bodies DO NOT PROMOTE! It's a conflict of interest!" Good luck in the fight Game... And "Who's there FOR YOU!" The IKC was defunct within a few months of this incident... There have been other kickboxing organizations and promotions with the initials IKC since Johnson's organization failed. In 2005, Johnson was in the "ODD" press again when he said he was going to box a WOMAN... Read it here... Back To Main OPINION PAGE, Click HERE!

http://www.ikfkickboxing.com/Opinion-Sanction.htm

Nike to stand by Rooney Wayne Rooney's sponsors Nike have confirmed they will stick with the Manchester United striker despite lurid allegations about his private life. Rooney's lucrative deals with Nike, EA Sports and Coca-Cola have helped boost his personal fortune to £35million, according to the Sunday Times Rich List. A spokesman for Nike said: "We have worked with Wayne for seven years and he continues to be a Nike athlete. "This is a private matter for Wayne and his family and we have no further comment to make at this time." Nike also stood by golfer Tiger Woods as the world number one admitted a string of affairs which led to the breakdown of his marriage. Coca-Cola declined to comment on their own business relationship with Rooney, with a spokesman for the company saying: "This is a private matter for Wayne and his family." A tight game could be in prospect here. Northampton have been keeping things very tight of late and ... by Gareth Purnell 18 May 2013 02:01 AM I can’t ever watch games of football or rugby without wistfully wondering what it must be like to be... by Martin Ayres 16 May 2013 05:10 PM Since PSG’s exit to Barcelona in the Uefa Champions League quarter-final in April, PSG have been sur... by Matthew Riding 15 May 2013 02:37 PM Stoke City investigate 'religious' abuse after 'pig head is found in Kenwyne Jones' locker' Is David Beckham one of the Premier League greats? He's not even in the top 1,000 says Chris Waddle Groundhog day looms for Arsène Wenger as Arsenal battle for a place in the Champions League on final day Andre Villas-Boas ready to spark Tottenham revolution One last swipe at Manchester City and then Sir Alex Ferguson was gone... - 1 Heading for the States? Prepare for the longest US immigration queues ever - 2 Amir Khan interview: 'One second could end my boxing career' - 3 Boxing: Purdy set to join long list of British fighters who take the money – and then the beating - 4 Dan Stevens after Downton Abbey: The erstwhile Matthew Crawley is back in period costume - 5 Join Ryanair! See the world! But we'll only pay you for nine months a year BMF is the UK’s biggest and best loved outdoor fitness classes Find out what The Independent's resident travel expert has to say about one of the most beautiful small cities in the world Win anything from gadgets to five-star holidays on our competitions and offers page.

http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/nike-to-stand-by-rooney-2071629.html

Belton-Honea Path couldn't be in a better position to defend its Class 3A state wrestling duals title. As the Region 1-3A champion, the Bears earned a top seed in the tournament, which begins at 9:30 a.m. Saturday. With the way the brackets were drawn up B-HP will have home matches all the way through the semifinals. That's where B-HP coach Chris Strickland is quick to remind his grapplers that looking ahead is a good way to get sent home early. Especially considering the big target placed on their backs after rolling through the bracket last season culminating with a victory over Chapin in the state final. "Everybody that wins a championship, you come into the tournament that next year knowing you're going to get the best effort from the opposing team," Strickland said. "There is some level of having a target on your back and people are gunning for you. We try not to let that bother us and keep plugging along." The Bears experienced it on smaller scale in a four-team race for the Western 3A crown. West-Oak, Emerald, Palmetto and B-HP were all ranked in the top 20 of the classification, creating a crazy ending to the regular season. Emerald knocked off B-HP early in the season and the Bears turned around to beat West-Oak. B-HP was then forced to root for rival Palmetto to beat Emerald, which it did. The Bears nailed down the region championship with a win over the Mustangs last week. "I just kept stressing to my kids to wrestle their best every night because you never know what can happen," Strickland said. Just as it did last season, Strickland said going through the "meat grinder" that is Region 1-3A can only help his team as it prepares for a playoff run. Last year's squad, however, had much more senior leadership. This season he is relying on sophomore 145-pounder Dylan Gary, who finished second at 126 pounds as a freshman, to guide B-HP. The Bears (18-7), ranked No. 4 in 3A, will also look to their three region champions as they begin their quest with a first-round match against No. 17 Chester (5-14) and possibly a second-round matchup with either Camden or former region foe Pickens. Freshman Logan Patterson (106 pounds) has lost just two matches all season while Parker Peeples (126 pounds) is peaking at the right time after defeating Palmetto's Brady Whiteside, who he lost to twice this season, for the region crown. Caleb Bowie won a region title at 197 pounds. Chester, which finished fourth in Region 3-3A, has forfeited at 106 and 113 pounds all season but is strong in the upper weights. Strickland figures the match will come down to the 138-160 pound weight classes. "When you get into the playoffs you have to be prepared every round. It doesn't matter if it's the first round or the fourth round," Strickland said. "Just like any close match you have to be able to maximize your opportunities in terms of pins and bonus points. In matches you might not be favored, you can't give up majors and pins." West-Oak (28-7), which boasts six individual region champs, could have a potential second-round matchup with Region 2-3A champion and top-ranked Eastside on Saturday if it gets past Union (26-14). Meanwhile, Palmetto (27-5) will travel to Chapin to face Chapman (25-5) in the first round. In 2A/A, Liberty (31-3), the top seed from the Upper State, is coming off its first Region 1-2A title in the program's 24 years of existence. The Red Devils will face 16th-seeded Ware Shoals (1-22) in the first round of the Upper State tournament, which will hold its first four rounds starting at 10 a.m. Saturday at Powdersville High. If ninth-seeded Pendleton (11-8) can knock off Keenan (20-9) it could set up a possible second-round meeting with Liberty. Crescent (18-9), ranked No. 4 in 2A/A, earned a No. 2 seed and will take on St. Joseph's (6-7). Powdersville (7-21), seeded 14th, will meet Cheraw (29-5) in the first round.

http://www.independentmail.com/news/2013/feb/01/b-hp-wrestling-ready-for-title-defense/

UNDATED (Indiana's NewsCenter) - Former Notre Dame star and 13 year NBA veteran Orlando Woolridge has died in Louisiana of heart disease at the age of 52. Woolridge starred for the Irish in the late 70s and early 80s, and was the sixth overall pick of the 1981 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls. He played with them, New Jersey, the Los Angeles Lakers, Denver, Detroit, Milwaukee, and Philadelphia, with career averages of 16 points and four rebounds a game. What are your thoughts CLICK HERE to leave us a "Your2Cents” comment. © Copyright 2013 A Granite Broadcasting Station. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

http://www.indianasnewscenter.com/sports/college/Former-Notre-Dame-Hoops-Star-Woolridge-Dead-At-52-156567835.html

What are your thoughts CLICK HERE to leave us a "Your2Cents” comment. © Copyright 2013 A Granite Broadcasting Station. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. To submit a comment on this article, your email address is required. We respect your privacy and your email will not be visible to others nor will it be added to any email lists.

http://www.indianasnewscenter.com/sports/inside-the-anthill/Inside-the-Anthill-011113-Part-3-185934121.html?vid=a

NCAA Frozen Four Notebook Bradford, Ferriero, Gerbe spark Eagles to title game return By Joe Gladziszewski, Jeff Howe, and Jess Myers |Boston College sophomore forward Brock Bradford didn't score on this shot, but the Eagles' second-year skaters had a productive night in the team's 6-4 win against North Dakota. ST. LOUIS – The Boston College sophomores won’t exploit each other’s off-ice activities out of fear that they’ll get served a not-so-sweet dish of revenge. But, they have no problem talking about their conquests on the ice. Once again, the super slew of sophomores came up large for the Eagles, who knocked out North Dakota, 6-4, in a wild Frozen Four contest Thursday night. Headlined by Nathan Gerbe’s two goals and two assists, the group combined for a seven-point night and figured in on four of the team’s goals. “You want to stick together,” said Gerbe, who admits he feels a sense of pride when one of his classmates lights the lamp. “When Benn [Ferriero] or Brock [Bradford] scores or any of our sophomores, you always want to give them credit.” Gerbe, Bradford and Ferriero are the top three goal scorers on the team and have a combined 67 tallies this season to go along with 137 points. “They’re a huge part of the team,” senior captain Brian Boyle said. “They came on a little bit last year as freshmen, but this year, they’re a special group. They really can change a game for us.” They did just that against North Dakota. With the game tied 3-3, Bradford fed Gerbe in the slot, and Gerbe blasted a wrister past Philippe Lamoureux at 15:54 of the third period. Gerbe then added an empty netter with 5.5 seconds to play to cap off a wild finish. His go-ahead strike was even more meaningful to Ferriero, though. The Eagles took a 3-2 lead with 7:00 remaining. With BC on the power play a couple minutes later, Ferriero coughed up the puck behind Cory Schneider, and T.J. Oshie roofed it to knot the score. “I was feeling pretty down,” Ferriero said. “I just gave the puck away on a turnover, and they scored and tied the game. After Nate scored that goal, it definitely made me feel a little bit better.” “We know that he knows that we need him to win the game,” Gerbe said. “He came back and competed hard after that. It’s tough to do to come back like that. You kind of want to leave or something, but he played unbelievable for us.” Eight of Boston College’s sophomores share a house together on campus, so they’re pretty used to each other by now. Ask them to share a story or two, and their eyes light up but their lips remain sealed. “I don’t want to start any wars right now,” Bradford said. “We pull some pranks. We have a good time. Anything I say will be fired back at me, so I’ll keep it clean.” “I’ll stay out of that,” Ferriero added. “That’ll come back to bite me.” BC SPECIAL TEAMS FRUSTRATE SIOUX |North Dakota forward T.J. Oshie's shorthanded goal with 4:38 left in regulation tied the game at 3-3. North Dakota scored a pair of power play goals and a shortie, but the Sioux acknowledged that their opponents’ mastery of the penalty kill and the Eagles’ repeated winning of special teams battles was the key to the game. One could see right from the start that North Dakota forwards were being effectively held to the perimeter and were rarely able to get traffic in front of Cory Schneider. “They did a great job of minimizing our chances,” said North Dakota forward Ryan Duncan. “We did a good job of working the puck around but maybe we didn’t get it to the middle or the net as much as we’d like. They came in with a game plan and executed well, and they were just a little more sharp than The Eagles score three power play goals, including the go-ahead goal just 32 seconds after Oshie’s short-hander had tied the game 3-3 with less than five minutes to play. “It’s very frustrating,” Oshie said. “We pride ourselves on our special teams and tonight we lost that battle. Hats off to them. They did a great job.” INCH's Three Stars of the Game Jonathan Toews, North Dakota sophomore forward showed why he's such a highly regarded NHL prospect, beating defensemen off the rush with his incredible puck skills, fearlessly plowing to the net for rebounds, playing a physical game, and killing penalties. The next time you see him wearing a Native American crest on the front of his sweater, it might be that of the Chicago Blackhawks. Nathan Gerbe, Boston College When doesn't Gerbe play an enormous role in a Boston College win? He set up Ben Smith's goal with seven minutes left in regulation that gave the Eagles a 3-2 lead, then scored a little less than three minutes later to put BC back ahead at 4-3. He also iced the game with an empty-net goal with six Dan Bertram, Boston College Twice North Dakota took leads, and twice Bertram was there to answer. Both of his goals were on the power play, and both were scored late in the period, keeping the Fighting Sioux from taking momentum into the locker room. He also played a key role on the penalty-killing unit when North Dakota was pressing for the game-tying goal late in regulation. Story: Eagles Return to Title Game Boston College is in the NCAA championship game for the second straight season with another semifinal win over North Dakota. SEEN AND HEARD AT THE SCOTTRADE CENTER • North Dakota's T.J. Oshie and Boston College's Cory Schneider were teammates on Team USA during the World Junior Tournament in Vancouver last year and have faced each other on the ice in two consecutive Frozen Fours now. The North Dakota forward said he got exactly what he expected from his friend in maroon and gold. “He’s a great goalie and plays great in big games,” Oshie said. “He played great against us last year. That was probably the first time I’ve scored against him in practice or in a game. He played great and we were expecting that.” Oshie admitted that the roar may have been extra loud when he scored thanks to Blues fans in the crowd who are eager to see the first-round pick wearing the Bluenote sometime soon. While not hinting whether or not he’ll return to Grand Forks for another season, Oshie said he liked visiting his potential future office. “It was nice to get to St. Louis for the first time and I had a good time here except for that last little bit tonight,” he said. • After five straight NCAA titles, and appearances in the past seven title games, the WCHA’s 10 teams will all be spectators for Saturday’s final game. Reached outside the North Dakota locker room after his last hope’s loss, league commissioner Bruce McLeod expressed disappointment not only with the game’s result but the process that led up to it. “Each year the odds grow against it continuing, but the process, the RPI, they made some tweaks in it and in the end it works against you,” McLeod said. “You look at the 16 teams that made the tournament, the 14 and then the two automatics, the next four teams were all WCHA teams.” McLeod mentioned the pairings that put the WCHA’s top two teams at the end of the season, Minnesota and North Dakota, in the same region. “I’m certainly disappointed and I guess maybe a little frustrated about the whole thing,” he said. “It was just one thing after another, and it kind of feels odd.” He also acknowledged that after the 2005 Frozen Four in Columbus featured four WCHA teams, there’s no sympathy for his league outside the confines of the 10 teams he oversees. “I’m certainly kind of sad, but life will go on and we’ll start a new streak,” McLeod said, with a grin. • Brian Boyle was forced to change his skates with 15:17 remaining in the first period. He normally changes his skates during games, but during an intermission. Luckily for him, it happened right before a television timeout. • Can't blame a guy for trying: Boston College forward Matt Greene tried to engage in a bit of skullduggery in the third period. After being kicked out of the face-off circle, Greene skated away slowly, then twirled back and headed toward the dot. He couldn't pull off the the trickery, however — he was tossed by one of the assistant referees a second time. • College Hockey America, which is hosting this year's Frozen Four, may want to send the promotional video it showed on the Scottrade Center video board for editing prior to Saturday's title game. The spot included shots of the Air Force campus and the Falcons' logo. Air Force left the CHA at the end of last season for Atlantic his post-game press conference, Boston College coach Jerry York summed up the sentiments of just about everyone at the Scottrade Center Thursday evening when he said, "It was great plays by great players. I hope you guys had as much fun watching as I did." Indeed, the Eagles and Fighting Sioux put on a show that was as enjoyable a matchup as we've seen on college hockey's grandest stage in some time. job by assistant referee John Philo, who intervened on Boston College's goal celebration after Nathan Gerbe scored with 4:06 remaining. The Eagles were huddled very close to the North Dakota bench, and Langseth stepped in and shuffled them along toward their own bench. North Dakota's West Regional first-round win against Michigan, Fighting Sioux goaltender Philippe Lamoureux stopped T.J. Hensick's breakaway attempt, then threw the puck in Hensick's Tonight, Lamoureux peered through traffic to glove a Boston College shot, dropped the puck from his mitt, and swatted it out of mid-air with his paddle. The puck finally came to rest at BC goalie Cory Schneider's feet, some 180 feet from where it started its journey. We don't mind someone who plays with a little flair, but Lamoureu's line drive was uncalled for. He should've been penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct or, at the very least, delay expect the official scoring line to be changed once in a while, but it seemed like assists were modified for nearly goal scored today. We know the official scorers are under pressure to get the information to the public address announcer and such, but take the time to get it right the first time. For the first time since the dawn of time — maybe it just seems that way — there won't be a WCHA team in the national championship game. Instead, we're left with Michigan State and Boston College in a Big Ten-ACC matchup. What's that? Right, it's a CCHA-Hockey East tilt. Incidentally, both BC and MSU are chasing their third national championships — the Eagles won in 1949 and 2001, while the Spartans were winners in 1966 and 1986. And though the boys from the Heights are making their fourth championship game appearance since 2000, the drive to win a title now remains. "This year, I feel like we're playing with that urgency that we didn't have last year," junior forward Dan Bertram said. "Now that we're on a roll, I feel like everybody's here for a reason."

http://www.insidecollegehockey.com/9NCAA/2007/semi2notes_0530.htm

The Tennis Anti-Doping Programme Working Group, comprised of representatives of the ITF, ATP, WTA and the Grand Slam tournaments met on 5 March 2013 as part of their regular review of the programme, and expressed unified support to implement an Athlete Biological Passport Programme from 2013. The Athlete Biological Passport provides an individual, electronic document for athletes in which profiles of biological markers of doping and results of doping tests are collated over a period of time that can be used to detect variances from an athlete’s established levels that might indicate doping. The introduction of the Athlete Biological Passport will require the TADP to increase the number of blood tests every year. In addition, the Working Group also recommended an overall increase in the amount of testing, especially out-of competition testing, with additional funding provided by all the governing bodies in tennis and administered by the ITF. The Tennis Anti-Doping Programme is a comprehensive and internationally recognised drug-testing programme that applies to all players events sanctioned by the ITF, ATP, and WTA, and at Grand Slam tournaments. Players are tested for substances prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency and, upon a finding that an Anti-Doping Rule Violation has been committed, sanctions are imposed in accordance with the requirements of the Tennis Anti-Doping Programme and World Anti-Doping Code. STATEMENTS FROM TENNIS GOVERNING BODIES “The Grand Slam tournaments have taken an active role in the sport’s anti-doping efforts since the inception of the programme and continue to make this a priority every year,” said Bill Babcock, Director, Grand Slam Committee. “We are proud to work with the other governing bodies as part of the Tennis Anti-Doping Programme which we believe is essential to ensure that tennis remains a clean sport for the future.” “The WTA is proud of its long-standing efforts in anti-doping and believes that it is in the best interests of our sport to adopt the Athlete Biological Passport and to increase both blood and out-of-competition testing,” said Stacey Allaster, CEO, WTA. “The ATP has always rigorously supported the Tennis Anti-Doping Programme and believes that the move toward the Athlete Biological Passport is the appropriate step for tennis at this time,” said Brad Drewett, Executive Chairman and President, ATP. “The players have been clear that they support increased investment in anti-doping and we feel that this is the most effective way to show the world that tennis is a clean sport.” “The implementation of the Athlete Biological Passport is an important step in the evolution of the Tennis Anti-Doping Programme as it provides us with a great tool in the fight against doping in our sport,” said ITF President Francesco Ricci Bitti. “We also hope to have increased support from the National Anti-Doping Agencies around the world who need to do their part if we are to win this battle and make our programme more effective. Our thanks to the Grand Slam tournaments, the ATP and WTA who have recognised the need to increase the investment of tennis in anti-doping and to the players who asked for more testing, especially blood testing, over the next few years.”

http://www.itftennis.com/antidoping/news/articles/anti-doping-programme-to-introduce-biological-passport.aspx

Don Walker offers news, notes and perspective on the ever-changing sports business landscape in Wisconsin and around the country Only one end zone will be used for Wrigley Field game Whoops. Only a day before the big Illinois-Northwestern football game at Wrigley Field, organizers have decided that, for safety reasons, only one end zone will be used. Let's repeat that. Only one end zone will be used for the game, according to ESPNChicago. ESPN reports: "The east end zone is feet away from the right-field wall, and although there is padding, there was still concerns that injuries could take place. Northwestern coach Pat Fitzgerald had said he would have different game plans for the different end zones to avoid the possibility of injury." Go ahead, readers. Have at this one. And while we're at it, let's sample some vintage video from Packers and Bears at Wrigley, circa 1965.

http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/sports/109221574.html

The Journal Sentinel's team of Packers beat writers provide the latest news, notes and analysis Steelers week: Wednesday practice report Green Bay - Here's what went on this morning. Nothing earth-shattering: - CB Brandon Underwood (hip) and LB Nick Barnett (knee) did not practice. Neither injury should be much to worry about. With Barnett coming off ACL surgery, they are always going to be cautious with him. Underwood was cleared to re-enter Sunday's victory over the Chicago Bears. - Brandon Chillar worked alongside A.J. Hawk with Barnett out. - CB Charles Woodson (shoulder) and DE Johnny Jolly (knee) left after jogthroughs. - DL Ryan Pickett went through jogthroughs and then did a pretty intense rehab workout. He looked very good and spry. Big man has very quick feet. - LB Jeremy Thompson (neck) is still out. - WR Greg Jennings needed a bunch of stretching to get his knee ready, but he seemed fine in practice. - K Mason Crosby did a lot of fundamental work with special teams coordinator Shawn Slocum. Not sure if that's unusual because they usually kick outside. Today they were inside. And, yes, he also did a lot of work from the right hash. - Coach Mike McCarthy and defensive coordinator Dom Capers had a long discussion during the special teams period. - Packers signed CB D.J. Clark (6-1, 200) to the practice squad. Started four years at Idaho State. Went undrafted by lasted all of training camp with the Carolina Panthers before getting cut. McCarthy will be speaking at about 1 p.m.

http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/sports/79426892.html

The Journal Sentinel sports staff brings fans the latest news and inside information on the Brewers Brewers "in touch" with Davis I just spoke with Steve Canter, the agent for free-agent left-hander Doug Davis, and he told me he has been "in touch" with Brewers GM Doug Melvin. As we have discussed many times in the past, Melvin has been interested in Davis, who once pitched for the Brewers. Melvin made a couple of unsuccessful attempts last season to re-acquire Davis from the Arizona Diamondbacks. "Doug would love to play for the Brewers," said Canter. "The organization was great to him when he was there, and they've got a great mix over there. Doug Melvin is building a contender over there." Melvin said at the start of the off-season that he would like to pick up two major-league starters. Thus far, he has acquired one, left-hander Randy Wolf. So, we'll see if this leads to something. The fact that the sides are staying in touch means a deal is always possible. I know there has been a lot of statistical debate about Davis on this blog site and whether it is worth signing him. One stat that probably has caught Melvin's eye: Davis is 9-6 with a 3.20 ERA in 16 career starts against the Cubs, with a 1.159 WHIP and 8.7 strikeouts per nine innings. Davis also is the only pitcher in the majors to log at least 34 starts and pitch at least 200 innings in four of the last six seasons. Considering how much trouble the Brewers had getting deep into games with their starters, that's probably an attractive factor. HOPPER NOTE: Contrary to the earlier blog posted on the signing of outfielder Norris Hopper, he was not invited to the Brewers' big-league camp. That doesn't mean he won't see action in their camp but makes it more difficult to make the club, usually.

http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/sports/81569057.html

By GRANT MEECH KWCH 12 Eyewitness Sports 9:33 PM CST, February 13, 2013 Wichita State trailed only once in a dominating 71-56 win over Drake, Wednesday night. Fred Van Vleet broke out of for a 17 point performance, his best game in a Shocker uniform. The freshman came off the bench to spark a 15-2 run to close out the first half up 30-16. More important to the win, Wichita State regained sole possession of the lead in the Missouri Valley Conference after Creighton lost to UNI, 61-54 in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Carl Hall had another double double, finishing the night with 14 points and 10 boards. Officiating was an issue in the first half but wasn't indicative of the final score. The Shockers out rebounded Drake 45-29 and controlled the tempo of the game all night. Copyright © 2013, KWCH-TV

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Denver, CO (Sports Network) - The BCS presidential advisory committee and group of commissioners unanimously approved the final details Monday on a four-team playoff for the Football Bowl Subdivision post-season. The new playoff system, which was approved in June, will begin in the 2014-15 "Today's meeting is a unanimous ratification of what we announced last June in Washington, D.C.," chairman of the presidential oversight committee Charles Steger said. "I'm delighted that additional details have been resolved and that everything is on track so fans can enjoy the post-season they've been asking for. College football, with its great regular season, is strong and popular -- it's about to get stronger and more popular." The group agreed to: - Lock-in a four team seeded playoff. The teams that will play will be chosen by a selection committee. - Create three "contract bowls" and three "host bowls" as part of the post- season format. The highest-ranked champion from the five conferences that are not in contract bowls will be guaranteed a spot in a host bowl. - Share revenue, for the first time in college football history, based on academic performance as part of the funding formula. - Share revenue with a higher portion of revenues going to the conferences of the four teams that qualify for the playoff and participate in the other games. Distributions will also be made to conferences whose teams don't qualify for either a contract or host bowl. Since the new format is projected to be so popular, there will be more revenue for all conferences and - Move forward to complete a television rights agreement for the new format. - Begin hiring staff so the new structure can begin operating. "This format is good for college football in both the short-term and long-term and I think it's great for the game," executive director of the BCS Bill Hancock said. "The four-team playoff will be wonderfully popular and because fans can't get enough college football, the other bowls will benefit too. I'm proud of how everyone came together and that agreement has been reached." The name of the new structure, details of the selection committee and location for the first playoff games, including the championship game, have yet to be The Sports Network

http://www.kare11.com/sports/article/998270/24/BCS-finalizes-4-team-playoff-structure

CLEVELAND (AP) -- The Browns may strike quickly to get Chip Kelly, Oregon's coach who does everything in a hurry. Kelly, whose up-tempo, fast-paced offense has captured the imagination of several NFL teams and maintained the Ducks' status as a national power, appears to be near the top of Cleveland's list of candidates to replace Pat Shurmur, fired earlier this week after going 9-23 in two seasons. According to several reports, Browns CEO Joe Banner is already in Arizona and intends to interview Kelly, who is preparing the fifth-ranked Ducks for Thursday night's Fiesta Bowl against Kansas State. An interview could take place as early as Friday. Kelly has been deflecting questions about his future all week. He did so again on Wednesday when he was asked if he expects to be contacted by NFL teams in the days ahead. "I don't expect anything," said Kelly, 45-7 in four years at Oregon. "I said this a million times. I'm never surprised by anything. I do not know what the future holds. I do know we have a football game tomorrow night and I'm going to be there." After that, his next stop isn't certain. Kelly and Alabama's Nick Saban are the hottest commodities in the college game. It's possible that new Browns owner Jimmy Haslam may make a strong run at Saban, who worked in Cleveland as an assistant under Bill Belichick in the 1990s. Saban would not be available for an interview until after next Monday's BCS title game, and the Browns could risk losing out on Kelly if they wait that long. The Philadelphia Eagles are also believed to be interested in Kelly, who came close to taking Tampa Bay's job last year. Browns safety T.J. Ward knows the 49-year-old Kelly as well as anyone. Ward, who walked on with the Ducks, believes his former coach is ready to make the leap to the pros. "I think the players in the NFL would respect him and they will respect how he approaches you," Ward said. "He lets you do your job. In college, he treated us like pros. I think that's what players respect and appreciate about him." It is not known if Haslam is with Banner in Arizona. Haslam said earlier this week that only he and Banner know which candidates may become Cleveland's sixth coach since 1999. The Browns, who have lost at least 11 games in each of the past five seasons, are not confirming any interviews. On Tuesday, the Browns interviewed Arizona defensive coordinator Ray Horton, who said his meeting with the team was "fantastic." Horton's interview satisfies the Rooney Rule, which requires teams to speak with a minority candidates for head coaching and senior football operation positions. Haslam and Banner made it clear that their next coach will have final say of the team's 53-man roster, a perk that could entice Kelly to leave Oregon. Kelly's pedal-to-the-metal offensive system is intriguing to the Browns and other teams who have already borrowed aspects of Oregon's no-huddle, go-go-go approach. During the offseason, Kelly met with Belichick to share insight. Belichick has acknowledged using a few tips from Kelly, including the use of one-word play calls to speed up the Patriots offense. "He's a great coach," Ward said. "You can see what he's doing at Oregon. I think he has what it takes to be successful in this league. Whoever they pick, Chip is a great option. He's a great motivator. He comes in and he knows what he wants to do and he gets his players to play for him and play hard. "He has a great scheme, great system. He's a high-energy coach." If Kelly comes to Cleveland, he may have to adjust his system to fit quarterback Brandon Weeden, who can throw the ball with anyone but doesn't have the speed to run a spread offense. "I don't think I can run the zone read," Weeden said, smiling. There are some who doubt Kelly's system can work in the NFL, arguing that it's a trendy gimmick that will be exposed by bigger, faster and stronger defenders. Kelly was asked if he thought it could work at the next level. "Don't know, haven't been there," he said. "There's a lot of ways to play football. Any coach is going to learn from other people and see how they can implement it in their system. Anything you do has to be personnel driven. You have to adapt to the personnel you have." Banner believes some elements of the spread offense are transferrable to the NFL. "The game evolves and there is always some stealing from college into the pros and some stealing from going in the other direction," he said. "You probably can't just take a pure NFL system and put it in college and have it work and you probably can't just take a purely clean current college system and put it in the pros and have it work. "But that doesn't mean there are things that the right coach could integrate from both systems that could work very well at this level." Cleveland also must replace general manager Tom Heckert, who was fired after three seasons. However, Banner said it's possible the Browns may hire a player personnel director, giving the coach ultimate power.

http://www.katu.com/news/Browns-have-sights-on-Oregons-Chip-Kelly-185442432.html

HUNTSVILLE -- Tanya Hooser went 3-for-4 and knocked in six runs including a three-run double to end the game with a run-rule in the bottom of the fifth inning as Sam Houston State defeated Northwestern State in the second game of a Southland Conference softball doubleheader Saturday. The Demons won the first game of the doubleheader 4-3. Sam Houston STate (33-22, SLC 20-9) clinched a second place regular season finish with the victory in the nightcap. The Bearkats will be the number two seed in next week's Southland Conference post-season tournament and play in the 1:30 p.m. game on the tournament's opening day Thursday. Brandi Crnkovic (16-10) was the winning pitcher for SHSU, limiting Northwestern State to three hits and striking out six Demons. Sam Houston totaled its 12 runs on 15 hits and three Demon errors. Stephanie Mosley went 3-for-4 with 2 RBIs and Amy Brown was 2-for-4 at the plate. Northwestern State (28-29, SLC 16-13) scored four runs on four hits and an error in the top of the third inning for the victory in the first contest. Amanda Glenn (17-10) spread 10 hits over seven innings for the victory. Sam Houston left nine runners on base. The two teams will meet in the third game of the series at 1 p.m. Sunday at Bearkat softball complex.

http://www.kbtx.com/sports/headlines/7353326.html?site=mobile

The crazy time of year that is free agency is fast approaching, so KCChiefs.com has you covered with a 30-day free agency look, highlighting the 30 most intriguing free agents or players who could be released/traded during the offseason. You may have noticed, there are no restricted free agents on the list, largely because they rarely leave their current teams. None of the reports are indicative of the Chiefs plans for the 2013 free agency season. DAY 4 of 30 Name: Reggie Bush Born: March 2nd, 1985 (San Diego, California) Experience: 7 years Drafted: 2006, 1st Round-2nd pick overall by New Orleans Saints Bush just completed his seventh NFL season, his second with the Miami Dolphins. Reggie Bush is versatile, to say the least. Breaking into the league with the New Orleans Saints, he was utilized as both a running back and return specialist. Since taking his talents to South Beach, he was fed the rock on a more-consistent basis and produced two quality seasons. Check out Reggie's cobmined rushing-receiving yards and TD totals throughout his career: Bush has had his two best seasons as a running back with the Miami Dolphins, totaling 1,086 yards in 2011 and 986 yards in 2012. He averaged 14.2 carries a game last year. Over the course of his career, Bush has been injury-prone, missing 21 regular season games. However, playing the various RB/returner roles, it's surprising the injury bug hasn't hit him more. During his tenure with the Saints, he completed a full 16-game season once. He has struggled with consistently protecting the football, fumbling 27 times (losing 14), since entering the league. According to CBS NFL Insider Jason La Canfora, Bush's "versatility will serve him well on the open market." Wherever Bush plays football in 2013, his work ethic and personality in the locker room will likely be very accepted, as they were in the Dolphins locker room. Plus, there's something to be said for a guy who can give you quality reps in the backfield, while being able to take a screen pass and enjoy making people miss. Oh yeah, it also never hurts to be a Super Bowl champion (XLIV). YOUR THOUGHTS ON REGGIE BUSH?

http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/article-2/Inside-Free-Agency---Day-4-Reggie-Bush/9fd1c78e-4c18-461a-9a7c-61f9f1a9c68d

Are you ready for some football? You may not be as ready as you think if you're planning to have folks over to watch the Baltimore Ravens face off against the San Francisco 49ers in New Orleans on Feb. 3. All any Super Bowl party needs is a television, chips and dip and a cooler full of brewskies, right? Well, don't start Kaepernicking in victory quite yet. While event planning professionals agree those are key ingredients, they say that trinity is not necessarily all it takes to throw a party worthy of a touchdown dance. Just ask Bill Furtkevic and Stephen Pino from Party City. Aside from a big screen for the big game and a table with food and drink, they offered a slew of other essential components for stylish Super Bowl soirée. Eye-catching decor, a unique menu, custom entertainment, wearable favors and fun invitations can make your party stand out from the standard last NFL season hurrah, Pino said. The Super Bowl is the second-largest food consumption holiday of the year, according to the USDA, behind Thanksgiving and ahead of Christmas Day. Stadiums sculpted out of meat products or complicated dishes that won't be savored during a gripping game might not give hosts the bang for their buck that they're hoping for. The Food Network's Sandra Lee, known as much for her tablescapes as for her creative use of packaged food, advises, "think 'do-able,' and take smart and simple shortcuts when possible." Although team loyalty can divide a party, a welcoming buffet spread can unite it. Use what you have at hand to present the burgers, hot dogs, chips and dip in a creative way, said Atlanta party planner April Trigg, founder of Eventologie. "Go get your kids' footballs and put them on the table," Trigg said. "Anything like that that you already have in your house, why not put it on your buffet tables? You've got instant party."

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- Road to the Kentucky Derby - Racing & Wagering Flashback meets Goldencents in San Felipe Flashback had little difficulty when making his stakes debut in the Grade 2 Robert B. Lewis, dominating on the front end against three overmatched rivals, but the unbeaten colt will face a much sterner class check when he faces Goldencents in Saturday's Grade 2, $300,000 San Felipe at Santa Anita. Goldencents exits a pair of nice wins in the Grade 3 Sham and Grade 3 Delta Jackpot. An eight-horse field is set for the 1 1/16-mile Lewis, which will award the top four finishers points on 50-20-10-5 scale as part of the new "Road to the Kentucky Derby" scoring system, and Flashback and Goldencents are the likely one-two choices in the betting, at much shorter odds than the remaining six contestants. A gray son of Tapit, Flashback won at first asking on December 8, rallying from just off the pace to score going away by 3 1/2 lengths at seven furlongs, and entered his sophomore season as a well-regarded prospect for Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert, a three-time Kentucky Derby winner. The colt lived up to expectations when making his stakes bow in the February 2 Lewis, winning by an easy 6 1/4-length margin, but it looked more like a paid workout than a true indication of his ability as Flashback controlled a slow pace from the start. His mettle figures to get tested Saturday and Flashback will likely revert to rating tactics with regular rider Julien Leparoux. He will concede three pounds to his main rival as the 123-pound topweight and breaks from post 2. Goldcents will start to the immediate outside of Flashback with a returning Kevin Krigger. Trained by Doug O'Neill, whose I'll Have Another narrowly defeated the Baffert-trained Bodemeister in both the Kentucky Derby and Preakness last year, Goldencents will bring a three for four mark into the San Felipe. Following a scintillating 7 1/4-length debut win at Del Mar, Goldencents displayed nice class when shipping to Belmont Park for his lone setback, a runner-up effort behind eventual two-year-old champion Shanghai Bobby in the Grade 1 Champagne last October. His connections decided to skip the Breeders' Cup and the bay son of Into Mischief concluded his juvenile season on an excellent note, posting a convincing 1 3/4-length score in the Delta Jackpot. Goldencents showed high speed in his first three outings, but he conceded the early advantage when making his 2013 bow against four rivals in the January 5 Sham. He had to work harder than expected that afternoon as the 2-5 choice, but went on to record a 1 1/2-length decision over a suspect group of rivals. The speedy colt figures to be sharper for this engagement, posting five consecutive bullet works in preparation, and Goldencents will be the one to catch if he breaks running as expected. Stakes winner Carving is the possible third choice in the wagering. The Baffert trainee exits a troubled fourth in the Grade 3 El Camino Real Derby on Tapeta and figures to be running late with Rafael Bejarano up. Omega Star turned in an impressive showing when easily breaking his maiden two back and the California-bred gelding will step up to face open rivals for John Shirreffs off a decent second in the California Breeders' Champion on January 26. The fast-finishing winner of that event, Tiz a Minister, is also entered in the San Felipe. San Pedro runner-up Hear the Ghost will make his first attempt at two turns for trainer Jerry Hollendorfer, and maiden winners Kochees and Salutos Amigos complete the field.

http://www.kentuckyderby.com/news/2013/03/06/flashback-meets-goldencents-san-felipe

Browns | McDonald practices Thursday Scott Petrak, of The Medina County Gazette, reports Cleveland Browns CB Brandon McDonald (shoulder) practiced Thursday, Dec. 18, and will play in Week 16. 2008-12-18 10:30:32 | Source: Access more Brandon McDonald news and rumors by clicking here.... For additional NFL information, please view KFFL's NFL Hot off the Wire.

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Braves | Jonny Venters headed for rehab stint Atlanta Braves RP Jonny Venters (elbow) may go to Triple-A Gwinnett Friday, July 20, for a couple of rehab appearances. 2012-07-19 05:52:25 | Source: The Associated Press Access more Jonny Venters news and rumors by clicking here.... For additional MLB information, please view KFFL's MLB Hot off the Wire.

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