((HT: Showtime/Strikeforce/youtube))
There was no doubt that both Dan Henderson and Fedor Emilianenko are heading to the MMA Hall of Fame by the time that their careers are through. But after last night's fight, is it the end for one of these two...
Meaning Fedor...
Here's the fight... decide for yourself...
But the larger issue is from the Emperor... he thinks the fight was stopped too soon...
"I think [the stoppage] was early," Emelianenko said. "I don't want to say anything bad about the referee, but I think it was early.
"If [retirement is] God will. If God has it for me, that's what I will do."
Henderson will take the win and move on quickly...
If you look at the tape, Henderson went from a wrestling position to driving Fedor's face into the mat and rendering him defenseless...
That's probably why the fight was stopped- all Hendo could have done from that moment was drive rabbit punches to the back of Fedor's head unless he could have extricated himself...
Fedor will still be around for a while. The HQ hopes, however, that he doesn't turn into someone who stayed at the party too long...
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Abdullah The Butcher Sued For Alleged Hep C Contract
((HT: Ottawa Citizen/Weber))
Devon Nicholson, who wrestled under a "Hannibal" moniker, is suing Larry Shreve ((otherwise known as "Abdullah The Butcher")) for an alleged diagnosis of Hepatitis C after the two squared off in a match four years ago. Nicholson is in the process of suing in Ontario Superior Court for C$6.5-million claiming that when Shreve bladed Nicholson, that was how the contraction took place...
From Weber...
“I’m not the only one that he has wrestled. He has wrestled everybody,” Shreve said. “He’s been to Puerto Rico, all over.”
Shreve claims he only used the razor blade on himself and not on Nicholson, and Nicholson claims he didn't know he was bladed until he watched tape of the match itself. Nicholson also claims he was just given a three-year contract with the WWE folks in Connecticut. He's suing, in part, for those lost wages...
Here's something Seriocity Productions put together on HepC and pro wrestling...
With Nicholson as the focus...
Devon Nicholson, who wrestled under a "Hannibal" moniker, is suing Larry Shreve ((otherwise known as "Abdullah The Butcher")) for an alleged diagnosis of Hepatitis C after the two squared off in a match four years ago. Nicholson is in the process of suing in Ontario Superior Court for C$6.5-million claiming that when Shreve bladed Nicholson, that was how the contraction took place...
From Weber...
“I’m not the only one that he has wrestled. He has wrestled everybody,” Shreve said. “He’s been to Puerto Rico, all over.”
Shreve claims he only used the razor blade on himself and not on Nicholson, and Nicholson claims he didn't know he was bladed until he watched tape of the match itself. Nicholson also claims he was just given a three-year contract with the WWE folks in Connecticut. He's suing, in part, for those lost wages...
Here's something Seriocity Productions put together on HepC and pro wrestling...
With Nicholson as the focus...
Friday, July 29, 2011
DEVELOPING: Former Yankee Hideki Irabu commits suicide in L.A.
OK, so the "Fat Toad" - as the late George Steinbrenner called him - never had the career that he should have, but he still made it to the Bigs...
Hideki Irabu, with a career record of 34-35 and an ERA of just over 5 while he played for the Yanks, Expos, and Rangers, was found dead from an apparent suicide in his Los Angeles home Thursday morning.
The troubled pitcher had been arrested twice since 2008, the second being a DUI in 2010.
The method of suicide has not.been released.
More later...
Hideki Irabu, with a career record of 34-35 and an ERA of just over 5 while he played for the Yanks, Expos, and Rangers, was found dead from an apparent suicide in his Los Angeles home Thursday morning.
The troubled pitcher had been arrested twice since 2008, the second being a DUI in 2010.
The method of suicide has not.been released.
More later...
Pastranathon 2011 Postponed After X Games Day One
((HT: ESPN/youtube))
Travis Pastrana is out of medal contention for the first time at X Games since 2002. He crashed while attempting a corked 720 that had made him a gold medal favorite in Best Trick. Riders usually get one shot each round at throwing tricks, but Pastrana tried the 720 twice after under-rotating the first time.
Pastrana had planned to compete in Best Trick and Freestyle on Thursday and Friday, fly to Indianapolis to make his NASCAR Nationwide Series debut Saturday, then return to Los Angeles to compete in RallyCross on Sunday.
Here's the attempt, crash, and aftermath...
"I am sorry this happened and will be back in action as soon as I can. I look forward to Pastranathon 2012 at X Games 18," he told the four-letter afterwards.
Pastrana's crash at Staples wasn't the only wreck of the day...
Aussie Mark Monea tried a front flip 360 but couldn't hold on to it...
No immediate word on Monea's injuries...
Travis Pastrana is out of medal contention for the first time at X Games since 2002. He crashed while attempting a corked 720 that had made him a gold medal favorite in Best Trick. Riders usually get one shot each round at throwing tricks, but Pastrana tried the 720 twice after under-rotating the first time.
Pastrana had planned to compete in Best Trick and Freestyle on Thursday and Friday, fly to Indianapolis to make his NASCAR Nationwide Series debut Saturday, then return to Los Angeles to compete in RallyCross on Sunday.
Here's the attempt, crash, and aftermath...
"I am sorry this happened and will be back in action as soon as I can. I look forward to Pastranathon 2012 at X Games 18," he told the four-letter afterwards.
Pastrana's crash at Staples wasn't the only wreck of the day...
Aussie Mark Monea tried a front flip 360 but couldn't hold on to it...
No immediate word on Monea's injuries...
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Pac-12 Has A Multi-Platform Idea, Charles Davis Has Ideas
((HT: PositivePub.com/VoiceAmericaTV))
Something called "The Pac-12 Networks" now exists. There will be a national channel along with six regional offerings: Washington, Oregon, Northern California, Southern California, Arizona and Mountain.
Commish Larry Scott announced the idea at the press junket in New York City and referred to it as "a truly unique, one-of-a-kind initiative to create exposure that's unprecedented."
The Pac-12 partnered with cable companies Comcast, Cox, Time Warner and Bright House to distribute the networks but wholly owns them.
Once the channels launch a year from now, they will broadcast about 850 sporting events a year -- 350 nationally and 500 regionally. Subscribers will also be able to watch games on mobile devices.
Every football and men's basketball game will be televised nationally. The conference already had a 12-year TV contract worth about $3 billion with Fox and ESPN, which will air many of the most high-profile games.
The networks will initially be available to almost 40 million homes... which sounds incredibly ambitious...
Here's Charles Davis with a preview of the season to come...
Something called "The Pac-12 Networks" now exists. There will be a national channel along with six regional offerings: Washington, Oregon, Northern California, Southern California, Arizona and Mountain.
Commish Larry Scott announced the idea at the press junket in New York City and referred to it as "a truly unique, one-of-a-kind initiative to create exposure that's unprecedented."
The Pac-12 partnered with cable companies Comcast, Cox, Time Warner and Bright House to distribute the networks but wholly owns them.
Once the channels launch a year from now, they will broadcast about 850 sporting events a year -- 350 nationally and 500 regionally. Subscribers will also be able to watch games on mobile devices.
Every football and men's basketball game will be televised nationally. The conference already had a 12-year TV contract worth about $3 billion with Fox and ESPN, which will air many of the most high-profile games.
The networks will initially be available to almost 40 million homes... which sounds incredibly ambitious...
Here's Charles Davis with a preview of the season to come...
UNC AD Dick Baddour Stepping Down
At the morning press conference explaining the firing of head football coach Butch Davis a week before practice begins, Dick Baddour has asked Chancellor Holden Thorp to start a search for a successor.
The words Baddour used are "as soon as possible" serving out his contract, but will assume duties other than Athletic Director when a successor is named. Baddour wants to have the new AD start a seamless transition for the recruiting process with a new head football coach...
Interviews are this afternoon for the interim head football coach, but sources are telling OSG Sports that the Offensive Coordinator has the inside track for the sake of the athletes on the roster...
Here's coverage from our friends at WRAL-TV and wralsportsfan.com
The words Baddour used are "as soon as possible" serving out his contract, but will assume duties other than Athletic Director when a successor is named. Baddour wants to have the new AD start a seamless transition for the recruiting process with a new head football coach...
Interviews are this afternoon for the interim head football coach, but sources are telling OSG Sports that the Offensive Coordinator has the inside track for the sake of the athletes on the roster...
Here's coverage from our friends at WRAL-TV and wralsportsfan.com
Butch Davis Had To Go
On Monday at the ACC Football Kickoff in Pinehurst, N.C. Butch Davis was answering questions about the past year and a half and accepting the responsibility. It all happened under his watch.
I had a chance to discuss this with Davis Monday and while the 2010 season was the most brutal in his coaching career he admitted that season turned into his most gratifying.
All that is water under the bridge. UNC Chancellor Holden Thorp and the UNC Board of Trustees decided it was time to cut bait and fired Davis Wednesday.
What the powers that be at UNC-Chapel Hill came to the conclusion that the Universities reputation was at stake after taking a major hit during the John Blake affair and tutor-gate and that bad smell would linger if Butch Davis were to remain in charge, so now he's gone.
The general consensus is that Davis may have coached this season but may not have survived following the conclusion of the NCAA investigation.
Keep in mind Butch Davis has never been directly linked to any of the inpropriorties listed in the NCAA report.
All a major university with a high academic standing has to sell to potential students and would be donors is it's reputation and UNC had to rebuild that.
And that meant firing Butch Davis.
North Carolina wanted to get serious about football. For the foreseeable future the Tar Heel football program will face series challenges.
Here's reaction from UNC and Butch Davis. (Thanks WRAL-TV)
Here's team coverage of Butch Davis' firing from WRAL-TV.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Coaching Change In Chapel Hill, Butch Davis Has Been Fired
Butch Davis won't have to wear North Carolina blue anymore, Davis has been fired.
UNC Chancellor Holden Thorp announced that Butch Davis has been fired as the Tar Heels head coach.
"To restore confidence in the University of North Carolina and our football program, it's time to make a change," Chancellor Thorp said in a statement released by UNC's athletic communications office. "What started as a purely athletic issue has begun to chip away at this University's reputation. I have been deliberate in my approach to understanding this situation fully, and I have worked to be fair to everyone involved. However, I have lost confidence in our ability to come through this without harming the way people think of this institution. Our academic integrity is paramount and we must work diligently to protect it. The only way to move forward and put this behind us is to make a change."
Davis told OSG Monday that he's had the full support of the University and the administration and last season while painful was one of his most gratifying.
No interim head coach has been announced. Chancellor Thorp and UNC athletic director Dick Baddour will hold a news conference at 11:00am Thursday.
Camp begins in eight days.
Those of us at the OSG HQ wants to know why Butch Davis attended ACC Football Kickoff when he is fired two days later.
UNC Chancellor Holden Thorp announced that Butch Davis has been fired as the Tar Heels head coach.
"To restore confidence in the University of North Carolina and our football program, it's time to make a change," Chancellor Thorp said in a statement released by UNC's athletic communications office. "What started as a purely athletic issue has begun to chip away at this University's reputation. I have been deliberate in my approach to understanding this situation fully, and I have worked to be fair to everyone involved. However, I have lost confidence in our ability to come through this without harming the way people think of this institution. Our academic integrity is paramount and we must work diligently to protect it. The only way to move forward and put this behind us is to make a change."
Davis told OSG Monday that he's had the full support of the University and the administration and last season while painful was one of his most gratifying.
No interim head coach has been announced. Chancellor Thorp and UNC athletic director Dick Baddour will hold a news conference at 11:00am Thursday.
Camp begins in eight days.
Those of us at the OSG HQ wants to know why Butch Davis attended ACC Football Kickoff when he is fired two days later.
The Worst Call Ever...???
((HT: MLB/FSNSouth/youtube))
This may go down as two things:
1) The worst call ever in the history of Major League Baseball and,
2) The game that changed the Pittsburgh Pirates season once and for all...
The Atlanta Braves and the Pittsburgh Pirates went at it for 19 innings last night- and it shoud have been, at least, 20...
The game ended at 2AM on one of the worst endings evah...
Here's the call...
"I didn't feel the tag," the Braves Julio Lugo said. "He made the right call. I got in there."
"I saw the tag, but he looked like he oled him and I called him safe for that," home plate ump Jerry Meals said. "I looked at the replays and it appeared he might have got him on the shin area. I'm guessing he might have got him, but when I was out there when it happened I didn't see a tag.
"I just saw the glove sweep up. I didn't see the glove hit his leg."
One note: The home plate ump should never admit to watching a replay and thinking something was different...
This may go down as two things:
1) The worst call ever in the history of Major League Baseball and,
2) The game that changed the Pittsburgh Pirates season once and for all...
The Atlanta Braves and the Pittsburgh Pirates went at it for 19 innings last night- and it shoud have been, at least, 20...
The game ended at 2AM on one of the worst endings evah...
Here's the call...
"I didn't feel the tag," the Braves Julio Lugo said. "He made the right call. I got in there."
"I saw the tag, but he looked like he oled him and I called him safe for that," home plate ump Jerry Meals said. "I looked at the replays and it appeared he might have got him on the shin area. I'm guessing he might have got him, but when I was out there when it happened I didn't see a tag.
"I just saw the glove sweep up. I didn't see the glove hit his leg."
One note: The home plate ump should never admit to watching a replay and thinking something was different...
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
LA Is Farmers... Bum Ba Dum Ba Dum Bum Bum
((HT: KABC-TV))
The HQ figured this would happen sooner or later...
AEG and the City of Los Angeles have agreed on a Memorandum of Understanding for what would eventually become Farmers Field next to Staples Center in the City Center district...
AEG is issuing bonds for less than the initial amount requested and will be paying for the $1.2-billion facility their own selves...
Sid Garcia has the details on the MOU
The one thing the HQ has failed to understand during this whole time...
If LA gets double-headers every weekend without fail, the national ratings for the pro football package are normally higher than they would be otherwise.
Wouldn't the ratings nosedive if a team like Jacksonville, Minneapolis, or Buffalo make their way west...???
Jus' axin'...
The HQ figured this would happen sooner or later...
AEG and the City of Los Angeles have agreed on a Memorandum of Understanding for what would eventually become Farmers Field next to Staples Center in the City Center district...
AEG is issuing bonds for less than the initial amount requested and will be paying for the $1.2-billion facility their own selves...
Sid Garcia has the details on the MOU
The one thing the HQ has failed to understand during this whole time...
If LA gets double-headers every weekend without fail, the national ratings for the pro football package are normally higher than they would be otherwise.
Wouldn't the ratings nosedive if a team like Jacksonville, Minneapolis, or Buffalo make their way west...???
Jus' axin'...
TV EXCLUSIVE: Stow Beating Suspect's Mother Speaks Out...
((HT: KTLA-TV))
Marvin Norwood and Louie Sanchez appeared in court yesterday, but their arraignments were postponed until August 20th.
They are charged with one count each of mayhem, assault by means likely to produce great bodily injury and battery with serious bodily injury in the Stow attack.
Police believe the suspects may have assaulted at least three other Giants fans on Opening Day, and they are asking for more possible victims to come forward, "especially anyone wearing a Giants jersey or sitting behind 3rd-base line."
Here's David Begnaud with Norwood's mother...
Police sources tell The LA Times newspaper that the two bragged to coworkers about the attack. Cell phone records and photos place them at the game.
The details are pretty nasty on the beating, so the HQ isn't going to go into great detail. And this may or may not have to do with anything, but both Norwood and Sanchez have criminal records...
More when we know more...
Marvin Norwood and Louie Sanchez appeared in court yesterday, but their arraignments were postponed until August 20th.
They are charged with one count each of mayhem, assault by means likely to produce great bodily injury and battery with serious bodily injury in the Stow attack.
Police believe the suspects may have assaulted at least three other Giants fans on Opening Day, and they are asking for more possible victims to come forward, "especially anyone wearing a Giants jersey or sitting behind 3rd-base line."
Here's David Begnaud with Norwood's mother...
Police sources tell The LA Times newspaper that the two bragged to coworkers about the attack. Cell phone records and photos place them at the game.
The details are pretty nasty on the beating, so the HQ isn't going to go into great detail. And this may or may not have to do with anything, but both Norwood and Sanchez have criminal records...
More when we know more...
Monday, July 25, 2011
Is It Too Early For A Late Hit...???
((HT: CFL on TSN/youtube))
The Toronto Argonauts EJ Kuale brings both the noise and the funk with this gawd-awful late hit on the Winnipeg Blue Bombers Buck Pierce...
Two things the HQ knows, Kuale will be heading to the league office downtown to discuss and we're glad that FOSG Terrence Edwards can still catch like nobody's bid-ness...
The Toronto Argonauts EJ Kuale brings both the noise and the funk with this gawd-awful late hit on the Winnipeg Blue Bombers Buck Pierce...
Two things the HQ knows, Kuale will be heading to the league office downtown to discuss and we're glad that FOSG Terrence Edwards can still catch like nobody's bid-ness...
Stow Attackers Appearing In LA Court
LA DA office spokeswoman Sandi Gibbons says that Louie Sanchez and Marvin Norwood will be arraigned on one count each of mayhem, assault by means likely to produce great bodily injury and battery with serious bodily injury.
They are accused of beating northern California paramedic Bryan Stow on opening day at Dodger Stadium.
Sanchez and Norwood were arrested back on Thursday. You'll remember original suspect Giovanni Ramirez was set free late last week.
The criminal complaint says the beating caused Stow "to become comatose due to brain injury and to suffer paralysis." The mayhem count alleges that they cut and disfigured his face.
Eric Spillman stands in front of a dark courthouse for a preview...
They are accused of beating northern California paramedic Bryan Stow on opening day at Dodger Stadium.
Sanchez and Norwood were arrested back on Thursday. You'll remember original suspect Giovanni Ramirez was set free late last week.
The criminal complaint says the beating caused Stow "to become comatose due to brain injury and to suffer paralysis." The mayhem count alleges that they cut and disfigured his face.
Eric Spillman stands in front of a dark courthouse for a preview...
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Balotelli's Showboat Fail
((HT: MLS on ESPN/youtube))
The HQ completely gets the idea put forth in this World Football Challenge.
Bring a bunch of teams from around the globe to the New World and show us all what we're missing... and, for the most part, it's been an education.
Sunday Man City and the LA Galaxy were going at it in Los Angeles when temperamental child-child prodigy Mario Balotelli decided to do a little showboating...
Man City head coach Roberto Mancini had seen enough in Balotelli's exhibition of exhibitionism and pulled him...
As he should have... and the fact that Balotelli didn't get why he was pulled means he still doesn't get why everyone on this or any other planet thinks he's a royal pain in the ass...
This isn't the UAE, son...
The HQ completely gets the idea put forth in this World Football Challenge.
Bring a bunch of teams from around the globe to the New World and show us all what we're missing... and, for the most part, it's been an education.
Sunday Man City and the LA Galaxy were going at it in Los Angeles when temperamental child-child prodigy Mario Balotelli decided to do a little showboating...
Man City head coach Roberto Mancini had seen enough in Balotelli's exhibition of exhibitionism and pulled him...
As he should have... and the fact that Balotelli didn't get why he was pulled means he still doesn't get why everyone on this or any other planet thinks he's a royal pain in the ass...
This isn't the UAE, son...
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Kasey Kahne Okay After Outlaws Flip
((HT: CentralPARacer))
Head to the 1:15 mark...
Now, the details...
He is okay after his sprint car somersaulted over a retaining wall in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania...
"Got wiped out in my heat race tonight," Kahne wrote on Twitter. "Haven't flipped like that in a long time!"
Kahne, who owns a sprint car racing team, was running in the second heat race of the night, after turning in the seventh-fastest time in qualifying.
Next up for Kahne is the Brickyard...
Head to the 1:15 mark...
Now, the details...
He is okay after his sprint car somersaulted over a retaining wall in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania...
"Got wiped out in my heat race tonight," Kahne wrote on Twitter. "Haven't flipped like that in a long time!"
Kahne, who owns a sprint car racing team, was running in the second heat race of the night, after turning in the seventh-fastest time in qualifying.
Next up for Kahne is the Brickyard...
Friday, July 22, 2011
DEVELOPING: Judge Rejects Dodgers Bankruptcy Plan
A Delaware judge has rejected the Dodgers proposed $150 million bankruptcy financing plan. The judge issued his eight-page decision which will, probably, mean the MLB plan could be the next step in the process.
The team had sought approval of its proposed arrangement with hedge fund Highbridge Capital, but the league's idea had better financing.
The Dodgers rejected MLB's offer thinking and proposing Commissioner Bud Selig was going to take over the team and force a sale to someone not linked directly to Frank McCourt.
More when we know more...
The team had sought approval of its proposed arrangement with hedge fund Highbridge Capital, but the league's idea had better financing.
The Dodgers rejected MLB's offer thinking and proposing Commissioner Bud Selig was going to take over the team and force a sale to someone not linked directly to Frank McCourt.
More when we know more...
Boogaard Arrested In Brother's Death
((HT: MyFoxTwinCities))
Prosecutors have charged the brother of former NHL enforcer Derek Boogaard with providing the prescription drug that contributed to his brother's overdose death in May.
Aaron Boogaard gave his brother an Oxycodone pill the day of his death. Authorities said earlier that Derek Boogaard died of a mix of alcohol and Oxycodone. He is charged with unlawful sale of a controlled substance, and interfering with the scene of a death for allegedly trying to mislead or conceal evidence.
Here's the latest from MyFoxTwinCities
Aaron Boogaard told police he had been holding Oxycontin and Percocet pills for his brother. He said he gave his brother a single Oxycodone pill before they went clubbing May 12th.
Aaron said his brother had just been released from chemical dependency treatment the day before and that he said he gave his older brother the pill even though he didn't think he was in pain.
"The Defendant said that it appeared (his brother) was celebrating and intended to go on a 'binger,' " the complaint said.
Sad... just flat sad...
More when we know more...
Prosecutors have charged the brother of former NHL enforcer Derek Boogaard with providing the prescription drug that contributed to his brother's overdose death in May.
Aaron Boogaard gave his brother an Oxycodone pill the day of his death. Authorities said earlier that Derek Boogaard died of a mix of alcohol and Oxycodone. He is charged with unlawful sale of a controlled substance, and interfering with the scene of a death for allegedly trying to mislead or conceal evidence.
Here's the latest from MyFoxTwinCities
Charges: Brother Gave Derek Boogaard One Pill, Flushed Others: MyFoxTWINCITIES.com
Aaron Boogaard told police he had been holding Oxycontin and Percocet pills for his brother. He said he gave his brother a single Oxycodone pill before they went clubbing May 12th.
Aaron said his brother had just been released from chemical dependency treatment the day before and that he said he gave his older brother the pill even though he didn't think he was in pain.
"The Defendant said that it appeared (his brother) was celebrating and intended to go on a 'binger,' " the complaint said.
Sad... just flat sad...
More when we know more...
2 More Arrest In Stow Beating, Ramirez Exonerated...?
((HT: KTLA-TV))
2 months after the arrest of Giovanni Ramirez in the opening weekend beating of San Fran paramedic Bryan Stow at a Dodger game, LA authorities are now admitting Ramirez was not responsible, a law enforcement source told The L.A. Times.
Another source told KABC-TV in Los Angeles that a male and a female suspect were arrested- believed to be the female driver who witnessed the beating suspects by two other male suspects.
Jose Romero -- an attorney for Ramirez -- has always stood by his client, saying he was innocent.
After the news was released, Romero said, "I think now, the world understands what I've known from day one, looking at my client eye to eye, that Giovanni Ramirez is and always has been innocent."
More when we know more...
2 months after the arrest of Giovanni Ramirez in the opening weekend beating of San Fran paramedic Bryan Stow at a Dodger game, LA authorities are now admitting Ramirez was not responsible, a law enforcement source told The L.A. Times.
Another source told KABC-TV in Los Angeles that a male and a female suspect were arrested- believed to be the female driver who witnessed the beating suspects by two other male suspects.
Jose Romero -- an attorney for Ramirez -- has always stood by his client, saying he was innocent.
After the news was released, Romero said, "I think now, the world understands what I've known from day one, looking at my client eye to eye, that Giovanni Ramirez is and always has been innocent."
More when we know more...
2 More Arrest In Stow Beating, Ramirez Exonerated...?
((HT: KTLA-TV))
2 months after the arrest of Giovanni Ramirez in the opening weekend beating of San Fran paramedic Bryan Stow at a Dodger game, LA authorities are now admitting Ramirez was not responsible, a law enforcement source told The L.A. Times.
Another source told KABC-TV in Los Angeles that a male and a female suspect were arrested- believed to be the female driver who witnessed the beating suspects by two other male suspects.
Jose Romero -- an attorney for Ramirez -- has always stood by his client, saying he was innocent.
After the news was released, Romero said, "I think now, the world understands what I've known from day one, looking at my client eye to eye, that Giovanni Ramirez is and always has been innocent."
More when we know more...
2 months after the arrest of Giovanni Ramirez in the opening weekend beating of San Fran paramedic Bryan Stow at a Dodger game, LA authorities are now admitting Ramirez was not responsible, a law enforcement source told The L.A. Times.
Another source told KABC-TV in Los Angeles that a male and a female suspect were arrested- believed to be the female driver who witnessed the beating suspects by two other male suspects.
Jose Romero -- an attorney for Ramirez -- has always stood by his client, saying he was innocent.
After the news was released, Romero said, "I think now, the world understands what I've known from day one, looking at my client eye to eye, that Giovanni Ramirez is and always has been innocent."
More when we know more...
Will The Trade Association Vote Friday...???
((HT: No Bias No Bull Sports))
If you check in with Trade Association head DeMaurice Smith or any of the hard-line player reps, the answer is "probably not..."
If we were to look into the shield's version of a Magic 8 Ball...
Smith wrote in an email to the 32 player representatives shortly after the owners' decision and back-slapping pride in Atlanta: "Issues that need to be collectively bargained remain open; other issues, such as workers' compensation, economic issues and end of deal terms, remain unresolved. There is no agreement between the NFL and the players at this time."
The HQ is fairly cvertain, however, that Jeffrey Lurie gave New Dawg more direct eye contact than he did Albert Breer of the Shield's network...
Chris Mortensen is confident of a Friday vote, but for all 32 player reps and 1,900 players all to get their hands on a copy of this 500-600 page document in time for digestion would be rare...
If you check in with Trade Association head DeMaurice Smith or any of the hard-line player reps, the answer is "probably not..."
If we were to look into the shield's version of a Magic 8 Ball...
Smith wrote in an email to the 32 player representatives shortly after the owners' decision and back-slapping pride in Atlanta: "Issues that need to be collectively bargained remain open; other issues, such as workers' compensation, economic issues and end of deal terms, remain unresolved. There is no agreement between the NFL and the players at this time."
The HQ is fairly cvertain, however, that Jeffrey Lurie gave New Dawg more direct eye contact than he did Albert Breer of the Shield's network...
Chris Mortensen is confident of a Friday vote, but for all 32 player reps and 1,900 players all to get their hands on a copy of this 500-600 page document in time for digestion would be rare...
NFL Owners Think Solution Is Good, Trade Association Disagrees...
((HT: No Bias No Bull Sports))
New Dawg was there for the duration along with Gil Tyree for OSG
So, here's where we are...
The owners got together in one of the many airport hotels in Atlanta and discussed their future. They thought they came up with a great CBA for themselves...
NFL owners voted 31-0 with the Oakland Raiders abstaining from the ratification in favor of a tentative 10-year agreement to end the four-month-old lockout pending player approval.
The vote was here are the greatest hits...
An agreement that covers the 2011 through 2020 seasons, including the 2021 draft.
Reducing the offseason program by five weeks and reducing OTA's from 14 to 10. Full-contact practices in the preseason and regular season and increasing number of days off for players. During two-a-days, contact itself will be limited.
A rookie wage scale gets four-year contracts for all drafted players (option for five years on first-rounders) and three-year contracts for undrafted free agents.
Unrestricted free agency for players after four seasons with RFA status for players with three seasons.
Close to a billion dollars wil go to a "Legacy Fund," which will be devoted to increasing pensions for pre-1993 retirees.
Salary cap plus benefits of $142.4 million per club in 2011 and at least that amount in 2012 and 2013.
Teams have to spend in the neighborhood of 90-percent of the cap or 99-percent of league operating revenues...
Here's Jim Irsay again talking everything from the Krafts to the, ahem, settlement...
But that's where the fun started shortly after 7PM eastern time. The player's trade association said they weren't consulted on some aspects of the new CBA- and they weren't pleased...
The NFL is saying the PA has to recertify by mid-week... general counsel Richard Berthelsen said in an e-mail...
"In addition to depriving the players of the time needed to consider forming a union and making needed changes to the old agreement, this proposed procedure would in my view also violate federal labor laws..."
FOSG Mark Berman caught up with Houston Texans co-player rep Eric Winston
((HT: MyFoxHouston))
But Chiefs boss Clark Hunt is happy it's done- even if it's really not...
New Dawg was there for the duration along with Gil Tyree for OSG
So, here's where we are...
The owners got together in one of the many airport hotels in Atlanta and discussed their future. They thought they came up with a great CBA for themselves...
NFL owners voted 31-0 with the Oakland Raiders abstaining from the ratification in favor of a tentative 10-year agreement to end the four-month-old lockout pending player approval.
The vote was here are the greatest hits...
An agreement that covers the 2011 through 2020 seasons, including the 2021 draft.
Reducing the offseason program by five weeks and reducing OTA's from 14 to 10. Full-contact practices in the preseason and regular season and increasing number of days off for players. During two-a-days, contact itself will be limited.
A rookie wage scale gets four-year contracts for all drafted players (option for five years on first-rounders) and three-year contracts for undrafted free agents.
Unrestricted free agency for players after four seasons with RFA status for players with three seasons.
Close to a billion dollars wil go to a "Legacy Fund," which will be devoted to increasing pensions for pre-1993 retirees.
Salary cap plus benefits of $142.4 million per club in 2011 and at least that amount in 2012 and 2013.
Teams have to spend in the neighborhood of 90-percent of the cap or 99-percent of league operating revenues...
Here's Jim Irsay again talking everything from the Krafts to the, ahem, settlement...
But that's where the fun started shortly after 7PM eastern time. The player's trade association said they weren't consulted on some aspects of the new CBA- and they weren't pleased...
The NFL is saying the PA has to recertify by mid-week... general counsel Richard Berthelsen said in an e-mail...
"In addition to depriving the players of the time needed to consider forming a union and making needed changes to the old agreement, this proposed procedure would in my view also violate federal labor laws..."
FOSG Mark Berman caught up with Houston Texans co-player rep Eric Winston
((HT: MyFoxHouston))
NFL Owners Ratify New CBA: MyFoxHOUSTON.com
But Chiefs boss Clark Hunt is happy it's done- even if it's really not...
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Chizik Clarifies, World Continues On Normal Rotation...
((HT: ESPN/SEC))
In direct opposition to Danny Sheridan's nebulous rant and riff on the PFRN yesterday about bag men and the such, Auburn head coach Gene Chizik went on the four-letter and discussed the SanDestin incident with the NCAA and what he can't control...
Anish Shroff asks questions...
In direct opposition to Danny Sheridan's nebulous rant and riff on the PFRN yesterday about bag men and the such, Auburn head coach Gene Chizik went on the four-letter and discussed the SanDestin incident with the NCAA and what he can't control...
Anish Shroff asks questions...
DEVELOPING: Rich Vs. Rich, Stardate 9731.6- The End Is Near...
((HT: NobiasnobullSports))
Our intrepid reporter, New Dawg, is down at the airport hotel not sponsoring our coverage in Atlanta...
Here's the latest nuggets he's uncovered as we inch closer to the end of approaching Armageddon...
First, CNBC's Darren Rovell...
And Indy Colts owner Jim Irsay- who Newby was walking with...
And The Per-fessor...
Atlanta Falcons color guy and former NFL'er Dave Archer...
And former head coach and now front officer Mike Holmgren of your Cleveland Browns
Is it just the HQ, or when the interviews leave the air conditioning, does New Dawg's lenses get all fogged up...???
Our intrepid reporter, New Dawg, is down at the airport hotel not sponsoring our coverage in Atlanta...
Here's the latest nuggets he's uncovered as we inch closer to the end of approaching Armageddon...
First, CNBC's Darren Rovell...
And Indy Colts owner Jim Irsay- who Newby was walking with...
And The Per-fessor...
Atlanta Falcons color guy and former NFL'er Dave Archer...
And former head coach and now front officer Mike Holmgren of your Cleveland Browns
Is it just the HQ, or when the interviews leave the air conditioning, does New Dawg's lenses get all fogged up...???
KC Chiefs Not Making Fans Of Own Employees
[HT: WDAF-TV Kansas City, MO]
There's being cheap and then there's being a cheap bastard. The Kansas City Chiefs might count for the later.
WDAF-TV in Kansas City is reporting that ticket takers and parking attendants of the NFL team have been told they can no longer watch a Chiefs game for free when they complete there job thus taking away one of the few benefits of the job.
In other words, clock out and hit the road.
Here's the report from John Pepitone of Fox 4 Kansas City.
I got to think Lamar Hunt is looking down thinking, "What the....." Those of us at the OSG HQ think this is a very dumb move by the Chiefs and should be reversed.
Otherwise when you have your ticket scanned at Arrowhead Stadium by a ticket taker you might get this treatment from this scene from one of the HQ's favorite flicks, Christmas Vacation.
There's being cheap and then there's being a cheap bastard. The Kansas City Chiefs might count for the later.
WDAF-TV in Kansas City is reporting that ticket takers and parking attendants of the NFL team have been told they can no longer watch a Chiefs game for free when they complete there job thus taking away one of the few benefits of the job.
In other words, clock out and hit the road.
Here's the report from John Pepitone of Fox 4 Kansas City.
I got to think Lamar Hunt is looking down thinking, "What the....." Those of us at the OSG HQ think this is a very dumb move by the Chiefs and should be reversed.
Otherwise when you have your ticket scanned at Arrowhead Stadium by a ticket taker you might get this treatment from this scene from one of the HQ's favorite flicks, Christmas Vacation.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Southern States Signs Deal With Montgomery For Championships
From the conference their ownselves...
Finalized and formally announced today, the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC) has agreed to partner with the City of Montgomery and the Central Alabama Sports Commission (CASC) for the next four years. This agreement was signed and made official today by Dr. Billy Hilyer, President of Faulkner University and Chair of the SSAC Board of Presidents as well as Todd Strange, Mayor of the City of Montgomery. The primary aspect of this relationship is that most all major events and championships will be held in Montgomery during the academic years of 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2014-15.
What the above paragraph means is that the city will host anywhere from 9 to 11 of the SSAC's conference title games and will be in place to bid for the NAIA soccer championships in upcoming years...
“We are delighted to welcome the Southern States Athletic Conference to Montgomery and the River Region.” Mayor Todd Strange added, “The confidence they are showing in our ability to host these events is gratifying and validates our investment in facilities to attract these kinds of sporting events. We look forward to working with the SSAC through our Central Alabama Sports Commission and pledge to them our continued support as we look to a long term relationship.”
In accordance with the NAIA "Champions of Character" initiative, there will also be associated events involving student-athletes nominated and qualified for that honor inside the SSAC and the NAIA...
As an example of the championships to come to Montgomery, here's Belhaven clinching the SSAC conference title against William Carey University...
((HT: BelhavenUniversity))
Finalized and formally announced today, the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC) has agreed to partner with the City of Montgomery and the Central Alabama Sports Commission (CASC) for the next four years. This agreement was signed and made official today by Dr. Billy Hilyer, President of Faulkner University and Chair of the SSAC Board of Presidents as well as Todd Strange, Mayor of the City of Montgomery. The primary aspect of this relationship is that most all major events and championships will be held in Montgomery during the academic years of 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2014-15.
What the above paragraph means is that the city will host anywhere from 9 to 11 of the SSAC's conference title games and will be in place to bid for the NAIA soccer championships in upcoming years...
“We are delighted to welcome the Southern States Athletic Conference to Montgomery and the River Region.” Mayor Todd Strange added, “The confidence they are showing in our ability to host these events is gratifying and validates our investment in facilities to attract these kinds of sporting events. We look forward to working with the SSAC through our Central Alabama Sports Commission and pledge to them our continued support as we look to a long term relationship.”
In accordance with the NAIA "Champions of Character" initiative, there will also be associated events involving student-athletes nominated and qualified for that honor inside the SSAC and the NAIA...
As an example of the championships to come to Montgomery, here's Belhaven clinching the SSAC conference title against William Carey University...
((HT: BelhavenUniversity))
DEVELOPING: Dodgers Bankruptcy Hearing Underway
((HT: MyFoxLA.com/KTTV))
The Los Angeles Dodgers' proposed $150 million bankruptcy financing plan is now being debated in a Delaware court.
The Dodgers' list of creditors withdrew their initial objection to the team's ideas of getting their money from a hedge fund at a ridiculous interest rate... something like 20-percent to start, but after MLB squawked, it was tweaked.
Major League Baseball and Commissioner Bud Selig still object to the plan.
The Dodgers say the league's offer is simply an attempt to take control of the team. A Dodger attorney told the judge Thursday that he will explain to the court why the team should not be forced to do "a deal with the devil."
Phil Shuman goes over the particulars...
The HQ thinks that once the Dodgers screw things up once and for all, they'll use the "best interest of baseball" clause to pull it out from under him.
As well they should...
The Los Angeles Dodgers' proposed $150 million bankruptcy financing plan is now being debated in a Delaware court.
The Dodgers' list of creditors withdrew their initial objection to the team's ideas of getting their money from a hedge fund at a ridiculous interest rate... something like 20-percent to start, but after MLB squawked, it was tweaked.
Major League Baseball and Commissioner Bud Selig still object to the plan.
The Dodgers say the league's offer is simply an attempt to take control of the team. A Dodger attorney told the judge Thursday that he will explain to the court why the team should not be forced to do "a deal with the devil."
Phil Shuman goes over the particulars...
Dodgers Bankruptcy Hearing Underway: MyFoxLA.com
The HQ thinks that once the Dodgers screw things up once and for all, they'll use the "best interest of baseball" clause to pull it out from under him.
As well they should...
OSG High: Iowa School Sets National Consecutive Wins Record
((HT: WOI-TV Des Moines))
Martensdale-St. Marys, a small school from rural Iowa, beat Twin Cedars-Bussey High 10-0 in six innings Tuesday night, setting the national high school record for consecutive wins.
The win by Martensdale-St. Marys also clinched a trip to next week's state tournament for the Blue Devils, who play in Iowa's smallest classification.
Martensdale-St. Marys finished 43-0 and won the state crown a year ago and they're looking to do the same again...
Here's the highlights...
There is a cool hook to this story...
Portsmouth High School in New Hampshire set the mark earlier this season and its streak of 83 straight wins is still alive. The Clippers won their state title in the spring.
So these two could flip back and forth for a while...
Martensdale-St. Marys, a small school from rural Iowa, beat Twin Cedars-Bussey High 10-0 in six innings Tuesday night, setting the national high school record for consecutive wins.
The win by Martensdale-St. Marys also clinched a trip to next week's state tournament for the Blue Devils, who play in Iowa's smallest classification.
Martensdale-St. Marys finished 43-0 and won the state crown a year ago and they're looking to do the same again...
Here's the highlights...
There is a cool hook to this story...
Portsmouth High School in New Hampshire set the mark earlier this season and its streak of 83 straight wins is still alive. The Clippers won their state title in the spring.
So these two could flip back and forth for a while...
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
LSU Has Sanctions With Self-Imposed Penalties, NCAA Takes No More Flesh... For Now......
((HT: WAFB-TV Baton Rouge))
The penalties, some of which were self-imposed by the university and adopted by the committee, include:
Public reprimand and censure.
One year of probation from July 19, 2011, through July 18, 2012.
One-year show-cause order for the former assistant coach from July 19, 2011, through July 18, 2012. The public report further details these conditions.
A 10 percent reduction in official visits for football during the 2010-11 and 2011-12 academic years (2010-11 self-imposed by university; 2011-12 imposed by NCAA)
A reduction of two initial scholarships (for a total of 23) for the 2011-12 class (self-imposed by the university).
A reduction of two overall scholarships (for a total of 83) during the 2010-11 academic year (self-imposed by the university).
Recruiting telephone call restrictions as detailed in the public report (self-imposed by the university).
The NCAA Committee on Infractions accepted LSU's self-imposed sanctions levied by LSU in a case that centered on the actions of ex-assistant coach D.J. McCarthy when he "improperly arranged for transportation and housing for former defensive lineman Akiem Hicks," then later tried to cover up what he did.
"A situation that could have been much worse was made better by the dedicated work of the LSU athletics compliance staff and I am pleased that the NCAA recognized LSU's effort to cooperate and be proactive," said LSU Chancellor Mike Martin. "With the support of Joe Alleva, the compliance staff led by Bo Bahnsen and Miriam Segar made an exemplary showing of how a university should react when mistakes are made. And I thank the NCAA Committee on Infractions for its work in hearing our case."
Here was the preview before the announcement, thanks to our friends at WAFB-TV in Baton Rouge...
Now, all the HQ is waiting on is the investigation of Will Lyles to see what other hammer will fall in Death Valley...
The penalties, some of which were self-imposed by the university and adopted by the committee, include:
Public reprimand and censure.
One year of probation from July 19, 2011, through July 18, 2012.
One-year show-cause order for the former assistant coach from July 19, 2011, through July 18, 2012. The public report further details these conditions.
A 10 percent reduction in official visits for football during the 2010-11 and 2011-12 academic years (2010-11 self-imposed by university; 2011-12 imposed by NCAA)
A reduction of two initial scholarships (for a total of 23) for the 2011-12 class (self-imposed by the university).
A reduction of two overall scholarships (for a total of 83) during the 2010-11 academic year (self-imposed by the university).
Recruiting telephone call restrictions as detailed in the public report (self-imposed by the university).
The NCAA Committee on Infractions accepted LSU's self-imposed sanctions levied by LSU in a case that centered on the actions of ex-assistant coach D.J. McCarthy when he "improperly arranged for transportation and housing for former defensive lineman Akiem Hicks," then later tried to cover up what he did.
"A situation that could have been much worse was made better by the dedicated work of the LSU athletics compliance staff and I am pleased that the NCAA recognized LSU's effort to cooperate and be proactive," said LSU Chancellor Mike Martin. "With the support of Joe Alleva, the compliance staff led by Bo Bahnsen and Miriam Segar made an exemplary showing of how a university should react when mistakes are made. And I thank the NCAA Committee on Infractions for its work in hearing our case."
Here was the preview before the announcement, thanks to our friends at WAFB-TV in Baton Rouge...
Now, all the HQ is waiting on is the investigation of Will Lyles to see what other hammer will fall in Death Valley...
Texas A&M Exploring U of Texas' "Horns Of Plenty" From the 4-Letter
Since ESPN and the University of Texas partnered in the "Longhorn Network" cable channel, coming to your cable soon very soon, it was common knowledge that this is all about making Texas' pockets much deeper in cash and solidifying the Texas athletic program as all powerful in the slimmed down Big 12 Conference. (Down to 10 teams.)Down at Texas A&M, Texas' longtime rival, the new money making cable channel devoted to the Longhorns isn't passing the smell test in Aggieland.
The Texas A&M Board 0f Regents had already scheduled a meeting Thursday and Friday however there will be a closed door session with the agenda item to be discussed is "Big 12 Conference."
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/college/texas/7659012.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+houstonchronicle%2Fspcoll+%28HoustonChronicle.com+--+College+Sports%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
The executive session is informative only as the A&M Board of Regents want to explore the competitive advantage Texas will have under the 20 year, $300 million dollar deal with the 4 letter and IMG College which also plans to potentially air high school games.
According to a Houston Chronicle insider no action will be taken.
From the outside looking in this doesn't look good for the long term health of the Big 12 (10) Conference. Texas A&M sees a competitive disadvantage to Texas with ESPN money helping to fund the Longhorn program and their is no sugar daddy with that kind of big bucks ear marked for Texas A&M's athletic department.
This makes you wonder talk will begin to surface in College Station and among the Texas A&M alums that "The Hell With Texas" and begin exploring bolting to the SEC again.
UFL Pushes Opening Back A Month
The United Football League may be on its last legs once and for all...
The league, through Commissioner Mike Huyghue, has announced that it will move the start of its season from mid-August to mid-September. The push back will give the league time to finalize television agreements and "other critical business affairs."
Players who reported to training camps this week are returning home at league expense and camps will now open in mid-August.
UFL owner and founder Bill Hambrecht said he and other investors are committed to funding the 2011 season, but Huyghue has said each team had about $1 million in unpaid bills at the end of the 2010 season.
Here's what we're missing in the interim...
Here's last year's title game from Old Rosenblatt Stadium between Florida and Las Vegas where the Locos won the title for the second year in a row...
((HT: theUFL))
The HQ is looking forward to seeing Jerry Glanville and Marty Schottenheimer be coaches again and be answers to trivia questions...
The league, through Commissioner Mike Huyghue, has announced that it will move the start of its season from mid-August to mid-September. The push back will give the league time to finalize television agreements and "other critical business affairs."
Players who reported to training camps this week are returning home at league expense and camps will now open in mid-August.
UFL owner and founder Bill Hambrecht said he and other investors are committed to funding the 2011 season, but Huyghue has said each team had about $1 million in unpaid bills at the end of the 2010 season.
Here's what we're missing in the interim...
Here's last year's title game from Old Rosenblatt Stadium between Florida and Las Vegas where the Locos won the title for the second year in a row...
((HT: theUFL))
The HQ is looking forward to seeing Jerry Glanville and Marty Schottenheimer be coaches again and be answers to trivia questions...
OSG High: SoCal's Montclair Prep Cuts Athletics, Financial Aid
((HT: KTLA-TV Los Angeles))
School officials at Montclair College Preparatory in suburban Los Angeles have decided to cut its sports program, grade services, and financial aid incentives. School Director Mark Simpson sent out a letter to the more than 200 students enrolled in the 2011-12 school year notifying them of the changes.
"As a result of this economy and overwhelming requests for financial aid, we had to restructure," Simpson told the LA Times.
The school will also discontinue grades seven and eight and will only operate as a high school, and the school's financial aid program will also be eliminated.
Founded in 1956, Montclair is known for its notable alumni including Cher, Nicole Richie and Khloe Kardashian.
FOSG Rebecca Hall got to stand out in front of the place...
School officials at Montclair College Preparatory in suburban Los Angeles have decided to cut its sports program, grade services, and financial aid incentives. School Director Mark Simpson sent out a letter to the more than 200 students enrolled in the 2011-12 school year notifying them of the changes.
"As a result of this economy and overwhelming requests for financial aid, we had to restructure," Simpson told the LA Times.
The school will also discontinue grades seven and eight and will only operate as a high school, and the school's financial aid program will also be eliminated.
Founded in 1956, Montclair is known for its notable alumni including Cher, Nicole Richie and Khloe Kardashian.
FOSG Rebecca Hall got to stand out in front of the place...
Monday, July 18, 2011
Play-By-Play Guy Quits On-Air...
((HT: ByKenLevine))
The HQ has known about people retiring on the air or some things like that... getting the chance to say good-bye to an endearing audience...
But we think this is the first time that someone has gone ahead and quit on the air, and of course, it was in the minor-minor leagues...
In something called the "North American Baseball League" ((Which we found out was a merger from the Golden and United Baseball Leagues of years past)), the North Division Lake County Fielders had their manager quit and had 11 players not play since they hadn't been paid yet...
All that was left was the play-by-play guy to head out the door...
((HT: youtube))
Qumar Zaman, we don't think, will be out of a job soon...
The Lake County Fielders rival Atlanta Spirit for their futility as an ownership
The HQ has known about people retiring on the air or some things like that... getting the chance to say good-bye to an endearing audience...
But we think this is the first time that someone has gone ahead and quit on the air, and of course, it was in the minor-minor leagues...
In something called the "North American Baseball League" ((Which we found out was a merger from the Golden and United Baseball Leagues of years past)), the North Division Lake County Fielders had their manager quit and had 11 players not play since they hadn't been paid yet...
All that was left was the play-by-play guy to head out the door...
((HT: youtube))
Qumar Zaman, we don't think, will be out of a job soon...
The Lake County Fielders rival Atlanta Spirit for their futility as an ownership
Cedric Benson Released From Jail... Again...
((HT: KXAN-TV Austin))
All of this is according to the arrest affidavit...
A former roommate of Cincinnati Benglas running back Cedric Benson, according to police reports, was standing at a street corner in Austin, Texas talking on his cell phone around 5 a.m. Saturday night/Sunday morning when he was approached by a “hostile and aggressive Benson” who told him they “needed to talk about their problems.”
The former roommate said they began talking about their living arrangements when “all of a sudden he was struck on his face with a closed fist throw by Benson.”
The man said Benson continued to punch him all over the face, "resulting in severe injury."
The affidavit also said the former roommate was bleeding from the mouth and complained about “possible loss of teeth and massive swelling of the left cheek.”
Here's Jacqueline Ingles with the low-down...
Benson's attorney, Sam Bassett, was the one who talked when Benson was released from jail Sunday afternoon...
"Mr. Benson has been charged with misdemeanor assault arising out of a conflict with a former male roommate. The two had difficulties resulting from Mr. Benson asking the former male roommate to leave his home a few days prior to this incident. The conflict became physical early this morning and we intend to fully investigate. There is not enough information available at this time for further comment."
There's irony in the Benson arrest in that he was supposed to have his previous issues looked at in court Monday morning before this one came up all by itself...
All of this is according to the arrest affidavit...
A former roommate of Cincinnati Benglas running back Cedric Benson, according to police reports, was standing at a street corner in Austin, Texas talking on his cell phone around 5 a.m. Saturday night/Sunday morning when he was approached by a “hostile and aggressive Benson” who told him they “needed to talk about their problems.”
The former roommate said they began talking about their living arrangements when “all of a sudden he was struck on his face with a closed fist throw by Benson.”
The man said Benson continued to punch him all over the face, "resulting in severe injury."
The affidavit also said the former roommate was bleeding from the mouth and complained about “possible loss of teeth and massive swelling of the left cheek.”
Here's Jacqueline Ingles with the low-down...
Cedric Benson released from jail, again: kxan.com
Benson's attorney, Sam Bassett, was the one who talked when Benson was released from jail Sunday afternoon...
"Mr. Benson has been charged with misdemeanor assault arising out of a conflict with a former male roommate. The two had difficulties resulting from Mr. Benson asking the former male roommate to leave his home a few days prior to this incident. The conflict became physical early this morning and we intend to fully investigate. There is not enough information available at this time for further comment."
There's irony in the Benson arrest in that he was supposed to have his previous issues looked at in court Monday morning before this one came up all by itself...
A Younger Petrino Gets Busted
Police in the southern Indiana city of Huntingburg are saying that Dominic R. Petrino of Fayetteville, Arkansas was arrested at 12:06 a.m. Monday morning/Sunday night. He was charged with driving while intoxicated, possession of marijuana, illegal possession of prescription drugs and possession of paraphernalia.
The coach said in a text message that he and his wife won't comment further about the incident.
Here's the full text of the statement:
"Nick is our son, he is not a member of the Arkansas football team. As such, this is not a University of Arkansas issue. Instead, it is a family matter and a legal matter. My family will trust and respect the legal system and will not comment outside that process. Becky and I ask that you appreciate and respect the private nature of this issue and understand our lack of further comment."
A police report says Petrino was stopped after weaving off a roadway. Police say a blood test showed the presence of marijuana and prescription opiates. He was released on $1,000 bond.
He was booked into the Dubois ((IN)) County Jail, and when asked, a local jail officer didn't know if he had an attorney.
The Herald newspaper of Jasper, Indiana reports Petrino had been a backup quarterback in his time with the Razorbacks. He had transferred from Georgetown ((KY)) and had won back-to-back state titles with Louisville-Trinity as a junior and senior in high school when his dad coached at the U of L...
More when we know more...
The coach said in a text message that he and his wife won't comment further about the incident.
Here's the full text of the statement:
"Nick is our son, he is not a member of the Arkansas football team. As such, this is not a University of Arkansas issue. Instead, it is a family matter and a legal matter. My family will trust and respect the legal system and will not comment outside that process. Becky and I ask that you appreciate and respect the private nature of this issue and understand our lack of further comment."
A police report says Petrino was stopped after weaving off a roadway. Police say a blood test showed the presence of marijuana and prescription opiates. He was released on $1,000 bond.
He was booked into the Dubois ((IN)) County Jail, and when asked, a local jail officer didn't know if he had an attorney.
The Herald newspaper of Jasper, Indiana reports Petrino had been a backup quarterback in his time with the Razorbacks. He had transferred from Georgetown ((KY)) and had won back-to-back state titles with Louisville-Trinity as a junior and senior in high school when his dad coached at the U of L...
More when we know more...
Scooter Pleads Guilty In Toledo
((HT: WTVG-TV Toledo))
Former University of Toledo football player Harvey "Scooter" McDougle Jr. appeared Monday in Detroit federal court and pleaded guilty to working with Gary Manni- who allegedly placed bets on Rockets football and basketball games. He says he accepted more than $5,000 in exchange for information about the Rockets in 2004-05.
He ended up pleading guilty to "conspiracy to influence sports through bribery."
McDougle is the third former Toledo athlete to plead guilty. Ex-football player Quinton Broussard returns to court for a guilty plea August 3rd.
The government doesn't allege that McDougle altered his performance to suit gamblers, but their suit says he played a key role in recruiting basketball players to consider shaving points.
Manni has pleaded not guilty to conspiracy.
Of course, he has...
Here's the initial story on the plea bargain...
Former University of Toledo football player Harvey "Scooter" McDougle Jr. appeared Monday in Detroit federal court and pleaded guilty to working with Gary Manni- who allegedly placed bets on Rockets football and basketball games. He says he accepted more than $5,000 in exchange for information about the Rockets in 2004-05.
He ended up pleading guilty to "conspiracy to influence sports through bribery."
McDougle is the third former Toledo athlete to plead guilty. Ex-football player Quinton Broussard returns to court for a guilty plea August 3rd.
The government doesn't allege that McDougle altered his performance to suit gamblers, but their suit says he played a key role in recruiting basketball players to consider shaving points.
Manni has pleaded not guilty to conspiracy.
Of course, he has...
Here's the initial story on the plea bargain...
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Joe Sakic's Million-Dollar Ace
((HT: Golf Channel on NBC))
The HQ will admit that it hasn't happened to us, yet on the golf course...
But it happened in the celebrity classic in Lake Tahoe over the weekend...
"To be honest, I don't care how it went in," he told reporters afterward. "I'm just happy I got a hole-in-one for the first time in my life."
It's the fourth hole-in-one in the tourney's history...
Jack Wagner won by three strokes for his second victory at the Edgewood Tahoe course.
The HQ will admit that it hasn't happened to us, yet on the golf course...
But it happened in the celebrity classic in Lake Tahoe over the weekend...
Breaking sports news video. MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL highlights and more.
"To be honest, I don't care how it went in," he told reporters afterward. "I'm just happy I got a hole-in-one for the first time in my life."
It's the fourth hole-in-one in the tourney's history...
Jack Wagner won by three strokes for his second victory at the Edgewood Tahoe course.
Spirit Still Hasn't Returned 2011 Ticket Deposits
((HT: WSB-TV Atlanta))
Consumer investigator Jim Strickland was thrust into the middle of a story that, some wished, already had an ending...
The HQ knows that, hopefully, the folks at True North Sports and Entertainment will give the team formerly known as the Atlanta Thrashers a good home. But the ownership group that sold the franchise, Atlanta Spirit (a group lacking in representation of both), is apparently holding season ticket deposits as long as they can...
From the WSB report:
Strickland also discovered the team's former owners, Atlanta Spirit LLC, haven't posted an update on the Web for weeks.
According to the website, before fans can get a 100 percent refund for next season, the NHL governors still need to approve the sale.
That happened nearly a month ago.
June 21st, to be accurate...
Remember...??? Apparently, Spirit has conveniently...
((HT: Sun News Network/JHendrix70))
The rationale is easy to figure- other than the major idea that the ownership group is looking to grab any kind of interest-bearing payment they can to improve their bottom line- which, really, is business...
Plain business... it's selfish, boorish, and completely unprofessional in a market where the NBA franchise is still owned by what's left of their coffeurs...
But it's business...
The HQ gets it... but any kind emotional capital they thought they had left (which, really, wasn't much) may be out the window...
Enjoy that lockout... which, being business, will mean Spirit won't have to spend any money on any level...
Consumer investigator Jim Strickland was thrust into the middle of a story that, some wished, already had an ending...
The HQ knows that, hopefully, the folks at True North Sports and Entertainment will give the team formerly known as the Atlanta Thrashers a good home. But the ownership group that sold the franchise, Atlanta Spirit (a group lacking in representation of both), is apparently holding season ticket deposits as long as they can...
From the WSB report:
Strickland also discovered the team's former owners, Atlanta Spirit LLC, haven't posted an update on the Web for weeks.
According to the website, before fans can get a 100 percent refund for next season, the NHL governors still need to approve the sale.
That happened nearly a month ago.
June 21st, to be accurate...
Remember...??? Apparently, Spirit has conveniently...
((HT: Sun News Network/JHendrix70))
The rationale is easy to figure- other than the major idea that the ownership group is looking to grab any kind of interest-bearing payment they can to improve their bottom line- which, really, is business...
Plain business... it's selfish, boorish, and completely unprofessional in a market where the NBA franchise is still owned by what's left of their coffeurs...
But it's business...
The HQ gets it... but any kind emotional capital they thought they had left (which, really, wasn't much) may be out the window...
Enjoy that lockout... which, being business, will mean Spirit won't have to spend any money on any level...
Isles Strome Goes Between The Legs
((HT: New York Islanders))
The HQ is never far away from hockey season...
Let's go to Islanders rookie camp and first rounder Ryan Strome is involved in the team's shootout at practice...
Here's Strome's beauty...
Sweet...
The HQ is never far away from hockey season...
Let's go to Islanders rookie camp and first rounder Ryan Strome is involved in the team's shootout at practice...
Here's Strome's beauty...
Sweet...
DEVELOPING: Clarke Is Champion Golfer Of The Year
Pretty much, every fan of the sport of golf knows the back story of Northern Ireland's Darren Clarke...
Lost his wife in a two-year battle with breast cancer five years ago... took time off his golf game to take care of his two sons afterward...
Now, in his 20th attempt on an Open Championship, Clarke plays skillfully to win at Royal St. George's by three strokes over American Dustin Johnson. It had been a decade since he was top ten in any major for the 42-year-old...
Clarke is now engaged to Allison and is enjoying life having moved back to his native land- playing golf out of Royal Portrush...
Here's how FoxSports Robert Lusetich set up the final round...
((HT: FoxSports.com))
Tiger Woods was one of the masses to send congratulations...
From his Twitter feed...
Very happy for Darren Clarke, well deserved win.
Lost his wife in a two-year battle with breast cancer five years ago... took time off his golf game to take care of his two sons afterward...
Now, in his 20th attempt on an Open Championship, Clarke plays skillfully to win at Royal St. George's by three strokes over American Dustin Johnson. It had been a decade since he was top ten in any major for the 42-year-old...
Clarke is now engaged to Allison and is enjoying life having moved back to his native land- playing golf out of Royal Portrush...
Here's how FoxSports Robert Lusetich set up the final round...
((HT: FoxSports.com))
Tiger Woods was one of the masses to send congratulations...
From his Twitter feed...
Very happy for Darren Clarke, well deserved win.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Calvillo Sets Canadian Passing Record For TDs
Anthony Calvillo set the new record for passing TD's in the CFL last night knocking Damon Allen to Number Two on that list...
"You play for a long time for a great team and these things are going to happen," Calvillo said. "I'm going to enjoy the moment."
The answer to the trivia question is: Eric Deslauriers in the back of the end zone 10:11 into the first quarter for his 395th TD pass, one more than Damon Allen threw in 23 seasons. Calvillo is in his 18th year...
Here's the catch... it survived a review...
((HT: CFL on TSN/youtube))
AC isn't, or correction, shouldn't be done with his record-setting this season...
Allen's marks for completions (5,158) and career passing yards (72,381) are still out there for the taking. Calvillo needed 4,220 to catch Allen going into the season and already has 1,038 in the first three games this season.
He added TD pass 396 later in the game- a 40-17 win over Toronto...
To give you an idea, Brett Favre has the NFL record at 69,329 yards passing. Calvillo should pass that yardage next week.
Favre has 497 TD passes in his career.
Calvillo should overtake Dan Marino's second place of 420 this season.
Favre also has 6,083 completions in a career.
Calvillo will finish comfortably in second place there as well...
"You play for a long time for a great team and these things are going to happen," Calvillo said. "I'm going to enjoy the moment."
The answer to the trivia question is: Eric Deslauriers in the back of the end zone 10:11 into the first quarter for his 395th TD pass, one more than Damon Allen threw in 23 seasons. Calvillo is in his 18th year...
Here's the catch... it survived a review...
((HT: CFL on TSN/youtube))
AC isn't, or correction, shouldn't be done with his record-setting this season...
Allen's marks for completions (5,158) and career passing yards (72,381) are still out there for the taking. Calvillo needed 4,220 to catch Allen going into the season and already has 1,038 in the first three games this season.
He added TD pass 396 later in the game- a 40-17 win over Toronto...
To give you an idea, Brett Favre has the NFL record at 69,329 yards passing. Calvillo should pass that yardage next week.
Favre has 497 TD passes in his career.
Calvillo should overtake Dan Marino's second place of 420 this season.
Favre also has 6,083 completions in a career.
Calvillo will finish comfortably in second place there as well...
First Lightning, Now Steroids For The North Koreans...
They just can't escape trouble in athletics, can they...???
After their opening round-first game loss in the Women's World Cup, the entire world learned why their game short-circuited... their team bus was hit by lightning three weeks prior and they couldn't recover properly in time...
Here's that version of the story, thanks to our friends at ABC15 in Phoenix...
Now, that they're out of the tourney on the whole, the HQ has found out that five of their players were busted for steroids...
Two players were caught during the tournament, and FIFA tested the rest of the North Korean squad and found three more positive results.
"This is a shock," Blatter said at a news conference. "We are confronted with a very, very bad case of doping and it hurts."
He's kidding, right...??? No... and neither is the excuse from the Koreans...
The steroids were accidentally taken with traditional Chinese medicines based on musk deer glands to treat the players struck by lightning...
Really...???
((HT: NBC/Broadway Video/youtube))
After their opening round-first game loss in the Women's World Cup, the entire world learned why their game short-circuited... their team bus was hit by lightning three weeks prior and they couldn't recover properly in time...
Here's that version of the story, thanks to our friends at ABC15 in Phoenix...
Now, that they're out of the tourney on the whole, the HQ has found out that five of their players were busted for steroids...
Two players were caught during the tournament, and FIFA tested the rest of the North Korean squad and found three more positive results.
"This is a shock," Blatter said at a news conference. "We are confronted with a very, very bad case of doping and it hurts."
He's kidding, right...??? No... and neither is the excuse from the Koreans...
The steroids were accidentally taken with traditional Chinese medicines based on musk deer glands to treat the players struck by lightning...
Really...???
((HT: NBC/Broadway Video/youtube))
So, Now It's A Ponzi Scheme With Donnan...?
((HT: ESPN.com/Barr))
The HQ has reported previously about the impending bankruptcy of former Georgia head coach Jim Donnan...
Now we know that, apparently, he was involved in a Ponzi scheme when GLC Enterprises of Ohio was soliciting funds. Depending on who you believe, Donnan was either a recruiter of fellow college coaches who knew Donnan and not the goals of GLC, or suckers who padded Donnan's bank account...
From Barr:
According to court documents, investors sank nearly $82 million dollars into GLC Enterprises, but less than $12 million was spent on inventory and at least $13 million in investor money remains unaccounted for. With dwindling revenues, GLC eventually used money from new investors to pay old investors, which, according to the court documents, constituted a Ponzi scheme.
GLC is being restructured under new management. The current operators, who filed Thursday's lawsuit, declined to comment, as did their attorneys.
The Donnans and their family members made more than $14.5 million from GLC in the form of "approximately 293 transfers to James and Mary Donnan or their immediate family members," according to the court documents.
Donnan recruited coaches like Frank Beamer, Tommy Tuberville, Dennis Franchione, and Barry Switzer to be involved in the GLC venture over time.
Here's the lawsuit against the Donnan family...
Either way, this doesn't look good for Donnan the family... and while this may be a signature moment for the coach off the field, here's one of the signature moments of Donnan on the field- against Tennessee...
((HT: ESPN/SEC/youtube))
The HQ has reported previously about the impending bankruptcy of former Georgia head coach Jim Donnan...
Now we know that, apparently, he was involved in a Ponzi scheme when GLC Enterprises of Ohio was soliciting funds. Depending on who you believe, Donnan was either a recruiter of fellow college coaches who knew Donnan and not the goals of GLC, or suckers who padded Donnan's bank account...
From Barr:
According to court documents, investors sank nearly $82 million dollars into GLC Enterprises, but less than $12 million was spent on inventory and at least $13 million in investor money remains unaccounted for. With dwindling revenues, GLC eventually used money from new investors to pay old investors, which, according to the court documents, constituted a Ponzi scheme.
GLC is being restructured under new management. The current operators, who filed Thursday's lawsuit, declined to comment, as did their attorneys.
The Donnans and their family members made more than $14.5 million from GLC in the form of "approximately 293 transfers to James and Mary Donnan or their immediate family members," according to the court documents.
Donnan recruited coaches like Frank Beamer, Tommy Tuberville, Dennis Franchione, and Barry Switzer to be involved in the GLC venture over time.
Here's the lawsuit against the Donnan family...
Either way, this doesn't look good for Donnan the family... and while this may be a signature moment for the coach off the field, here's one of the signature moments of Donnan on the field- against Tennessee...
((HT: ESPN/SEC/youtube))
Friday, July 15, 2011
Brandon Marshall's Wife Didn't Stab Him...
((HT: Sun-Sentinel Newspaper))
At least that's what he says right now, anyway...
Remember, back on April 22 his wife, Michi Nogami-Marshall, was arrested and charged with aggravated battery for allegedly stabbing him in the abdomen. She returned to jail six weeks later for violating a protection order when local authorities found out she was living in their south Florida home.
But Marshall says April didn't happen...
Omar Kelly caught up with him in the Boston suburbs where he's been working out these last few months...
Here's the file on the arrest from April, thanks to our friends at the Sun-Sentinel...
At least that's what he says right now, anyway...
Remember, back on April 22 his wife, Michi Nogami-Marshall, was arrested and charged with aggravated battery for allegedly stabbing him in the abdomen. She returned to jail six weeks later for violating a protection order when local authorities found out she was living in their south Florida home.
But Marshall says April didn't happen...
Omar Kelly caught up with him in the Boston suburbs where he's been working out these last few months...
Here's the file on the arrest from April, thanks to our friends at the Sun-Sentinel...
Girlfriend Of Baseball Beating Suspect Busted In Vegas
((HT: KTLA-TV))
The girlfriend of the guy currently being held as the prime suspect in the Bryan Stow beating Opening Day weekend was arrested in Las Vegas.
Denise Piccione was arrested by police on charges of possession and trafficking of methamphetamine and possessing a dangerous weapon.
Lovely...
The LAPD are referring to Piccione as "a person of interest" after Giovanni Ramirez was arrested in May and said they wanted to talk to her about the case. Ramirez has not been officially charged with the attack, but was sentenced to 10 months for a parole violation following his arrest. A gun was found inside his apartment when officers took him into custody.
Piccione pleaded not guilty to the drug charges and is being held on $1,000 bail.
Here's Rick Chambers report on the new twist...
The girlfriend of the guy currently being held as the prime suspect in the Bryan Stow beating Opening Day weekend was arrested in Las Vegas.
Denise Piccione was arrested by police on charges of possession and trafficking of methamphetamine and possessing a dangerous weapon.
Lovely...
The LAPD are referring to Piccione as "a person of interest" after Giovanni Ramirez was arrested in May and said they wanted to talk to her about the case. Ramirez has not been officially charged with the attack, but was sentenced to 10 months for a parole violation following his arrest. A gun was found inside his apartment when officers took him into custody.
Piccione pleaded not guilty to the drug charges and is being held on $1,000 bail.
Here's Rick Chambers report on the new twist...
Thursday, July 14, 2011
OSG High: Orlando-Dr. Phillips Loses 2010 Season
((HT: Orlando Sentinel))
Defensive Coordinator Rodney Wells takes over for Dale Salapa at Orlando-Doctor Phillips. Normally, that would be news on its own, but replacing the coach that had a three-year record of 35-4 is because Salapa stepped aside after a boatload of trouble came to the surface...
Last week, Dr. Phillips self-reported to the Florida High School Athletic Association ((FHSAA)) that it had an ineligible player on its roster and is forfeiting all 14 victories from the 2010 season. Last month, three former Dr. Phillips players were acquitted of charges of battery and hazing a former teammate last September.
"There will be a zero-tolerance policy," Wells told Joe Williams of the Orlando Sentinel. "Everything has to be clean. Everybody will be watching us, not just at school but in the community."
Wells ain't lying...
Here's the highlights from the state title game from last season...
The one that still doesn't count anymore for DP...
There was also talk that an alleged altercation between Salapa and a parent at a 7v7 tournament was what pushed everything over the edge...
Defensive Coordinator Rodney Wells takes over for Dale Salapa at Orlando-Doctor Phillips. Normally, that would be news on its own, but replacing the coach that had a three-year record of 35-4 is because Salapa stepped aside after a boatload of trouble came to the surface...
Last week, Dr. Phillips self-reported to the Florida High School Athletic Association ((FHSAA)) that it had an ineligible player on its roster and is forfeiting all 14 victories from the 2010 season. Last month, three former Dr. Phillips players were acquitted of charges of battery and hazing a former teammate last September.
"There will be a zero-tolerance policy," Wells told Joe Williams of the Orlando Sentinel. "Everything has to be clean. Everybody will be watching us, not just at school but in the community."
Wells ain't lying...
Here's the highlights from the state title game from last season...
The one that still doesn't count anymore for DP...
There was also talk that an alleged altercation between Salapa and a parent at a 7v7 tournament was what pushed everything over the edge...
OSG High: Georgia Coaching Legend Luther Welsh Passes
((HT: WJBF-TV/WRDW-TV Augusta))
Georgia high school head coaching legend Luther Welsh passed away Thursday morning...
Welsh was a head coach in the state since 1955 and continuously since 1968 at Dougherty, Camden County, Greene County, Screven County, and two terms at Thomson High School in suburban Augusta. He was head coach of the Bulldogs for 19 years and three titles to go with ten region titles.
Brent Buffington talked to those who Welsh touched most...
The following is an excerpt from a book the HQ has just finished...
"Georgia High School Football: Peach State Pigskin History"
On the field, changes took place all over, starting in Thomson with the retirement of Luther Welsh. Coach Welsh conquered lymphoma in the past decade, but succumbed to the disease in July of 2011. Both he and his wife, Anne, were facing battles with the disease, and at the end of the 2010 season decided that it was time for him to return home to Bishopville, South Carolina, and leave the coaching to another.
Anne had half of a lung removed in September 2010 as part of her battle and she passed almost a week before he did. Coach Welsh traveled to Augusta for his own treatments for cancer. The couple, who would have been married fifty years in September of 2011, were looking to enjoy their time at home. “The devil is trying to get us,” Anne told the Augusta Chronicle’s Scott Michaux after she fell and broke her hip during her own recovery in 2010.
The new Bulldogs coach comes from the town of Twin City, otherwise known as “Greymont-Summit.” Milan Turner won a Class A title at ECI with Georgia tailback Washaun Ealey in 2007, and he understands his new place—having been chosen over one hundred other applicants.
“You don’t replace a Coach Welsh,” Turner said after his unanimous confirmation by the McDuffie County School Board in February. “He leaves a legacy that will stand. It’s a great honor to follow a coaching legend like Luther Welsh. I understand the expectations. I understand the tradition.”
Welsh passes on having coached his way into the top eight on the all-time national list of most games coached. Welsh coached 507 games with eleven different schools, winning 329 of them. His record at Thomson was 174-47-2 with the Bulldogs, and his overall record was 333-181-6.
The book is set to be released in late August through The History Press...
The HQ sends its condolences to the entire Thomson family...
Georgia high school head coaching legend Luther Welsh passed away Thursday morning...
Welsh was a head coach in the state since 1955 and continuously since 1968 at Dougherty, Camden County, Greene County, Screven County, and two terms at Thomson High School in suburban Augusta. He was head coach of the Bulldogs for 19 years and three titles to go with ten region titles.
Brent Buffington talked to those who Welsh touched most...
The following is an excerpt from a book the HQ has just finished...
"Georgia High School Football: Peach State Pigskin History"
On the field, changes took place all over, starting in Thomson with the retirement of Luther Welsh. Coach Welsh conquered lymphoma in the past decade, but succumbed to the disease in July of 2011. Both he and his wife, Anne, were facing battles with the disease, and at the end of the 2010 season decided that it was time for him to return home to Bishopville, South Carolina, and leave the coaching to another.
Anne had half of a lung removed in September 2010 as part of her battle and she passed almost a week before he did. Coach Welsh traveled to Augusta for his own treatments for cancer. The couple, who would have been married fifty years in September of 2011, were looking to enjoy their time at home. “The devil is trying to get us,” Anne told the Augusta Chronicle’s Scott Michaux after she fell and broke her hip during her own recovery in 2010.
The new Bulldogs coach comes from the town of Twin City, otherwise known as “Greymont-Summit.” Milan Turner won a Class A title at ECI with Georgia tailback Washaun Ealey in 2007, and he understands his new place—having been chosen over one hundred other applicants.
“You don’t replace a Coach Welsh,” Turner said after his unanimous confirmation by the McDuffie County School Board in February. “He leaves a legacy that will stand. It’s a great honor to follow a coaching legend like Luther Welsh. I understand the expectations. I understand the tradition.”
Welsh passes on having coached his way into the top eight on the all-time national list of most games coached. Welsh coached 507 games with eleven different schools, winning 329 of them. His record at Thomson was 174-47-2 with the Bulldogs, and his overall record was 333-181-6.
The book is set to be released in late August through The History Press...
The HQ sends its condolences to the entire Thomson family...
DEVELOPING: Ga Tech Fined $100k, Lose ACC Title
The NCAA has put Georgia Tech on four years of probation and fined the school $100,000 for violations in the football and men's basketball programs.
Tech did not lose scholarships and was not ruled ineligible for postseason games in either sport. But the NCAA vacated the football team's final three games in 2009, including the ACC title game win over Clemson. The basketball team had its recruiting days and official visits reduced over the next two seasons.
The football team was cited for lack of cooperation with the NCAA investigation. The NCAA said Tech also should have declared WR Demaryius Thomas ineligible after he allegedly accepted $312 worth of clothing from a friend of a sports agency employee.
From Doug Roberson's piece in the AJC:
(it) grew to Morgan Burnett allegedly taking gifts and misleading NCAA investigators. Both have denied taking improper benefits.
In addition, more penalties were self-imposed and accepted by the NCAA:
Public reprimand and censure.
Four years of probation from July 14, 2011 through July 13, 2015. The public report further details the conditions of this probation.
A reduction of two men’s basketball recruiting days during the 2011 summer evaluation period (self-imposed by the university).
A limit of 10 official visits for men’s basketball for the 2011-12 and 2012-13 academic years.
Here's the highlights of that title game... which isn't a title game anymore...
((HT: ESPN on ABC/ACC/youtube))
More when we know more...
1930 UPDATE: We know more...
Here's the 5:00 live shot from out friends at MyFoxAtlanta
FOSG Ken Rodriguez is outside in the heat...
Tech did not lose scholarships and was not ruled ineligible for postseason games in either sport. But the NCAA vacated the football team's final three games in 2009, including the ACC title game win over Clemson. The basketball team had its recruiting days and official visits reduced over the next two seasons.
The football team was cited for lack of cooperation with the NCAA investigation. The NCAA said Tech also should have declared WR Demaryius Thomas ineligible after he allegedly accepted $312 worth of clothing from a friend of a sports agency employee.
From Doug Roberson's piece in the AJC:
(it) grew to Morgan Burnett allegedly taking gifts and misleading NCAA investigators. Both have denied taking improper benefits.
In addition, more penalties were self-imposed and accepted by the NCAA:
Public reprimand and censure.
Four years of probation from July 14, 2011 through July 13, 2015. The public report further details the conditions of this probation.
A reduction of two men’s basketball recruiting days during the 2011 summer evaluation period (self-imposed by the university).
A limit of 10 official visits for men’s basketball for the 2011-12 and 2012-13 academic years.
Here's the highlights of that title game... which isn't a title game anymore...
((HT: ESPN on ABC/ACC/youtube))
More when we know more...
1930 UPDATE: We know more...
Here's the 5:00 live shot from out friends at MyFoxAtlanta
FOSG Ken Rodriguez is outside in the heat...
Ga. Tech Loses '09 ACC Title, Fined $100K for NCAA Violations: MyFoxATLANTA.com
DEVELOPING: Judge Declares Mistrial In Clemens Case
U.S. District Judge Reggie Walton declared a mistrial in the Roger Clemens perjury case over inadmissible evidence shown to jurors.
Walton said Clemens could not be assured a fair trial after prosecutors showed jurors evidence against his orders in the second day of testimony.
A September 2nd hearing will be held to determine whether to hold a new trial.
More when we know more...
Here's the latest from our friends at MyFoxDC
"There are rules that we play by and those rules are designed to make sure both sides receive a fair trial," Walton told the jury, saying such ground rules are critically important when a person's liberty is at stake.
"If this man got convicted, he would go to jail," Walton said.
Walton said Clemens could not be assured a fair trial after prosecutors showed jurors evidence against his orders in the second day of testimony.
A September 2nd hearing will be held to determine whether to hold a new trial.
More when we know more...
Here's the latest from our friends at MyFoxDC
Judge Declares Mistrial in Clemens Case : MyFoxDC.com
"There are rules that we play by and those rules are designed to make sure both sides receive a fair trial," Walton told the jury, saying such ground rules are critically important when a person's liberty is at stake.
"If this man got convicted, he would go to jail," Walton said.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
French Toast... US Beats France 3-1 For WWC Berth
((HT: FIFA/ESPN/youtube))
The United States is in the World Cup final for the first time since it last won the title in 1999, and Abby Wambach coming up big in a 3-1 victory over France.
Here's Wambach's header for the lead in the 79th minute...
It was Wambach's third goal of the tournament and 12th of her career, tying Michelle Akers for third on the all-time World Cup scoring list.
Alex Morgan added an insurance goal in the 82nd minute...
"Abby, she's just the best," US WMT Head Coach Pia Sundhage said. "I'm very happy to have her in our team. Great."
The United States is in the World Cup final for the first time since it last won the title in 1999, and Abby Wambach coming up big in a 3-1 victory over France.
Here's Wambach's header for the lead in the 79th minute...
It was Wambach's third goal of the tournament and 12th of her career, tying Michelle Akers for third on the all-time World Cup scoring list.
Alex Morgan added an insurance goal in the 82nd minute...
"Abby, she's just the best," US WMT Head Coach Pia Sundhage said. "I'm very happy to have her in our team. Great."
Help Joplin Rebuild... A Before And After...
((HT: John Metcalfe))
Admittedly, the HQ has been wrapped up in a few projects this summer- two of them involve the nastiest natural disasters that the HQ's HQ has seen in a long time...
We found this report on the WJLA-TV website when we were trying to stay updated on the Roger Clemens perjury trial...
From Metcalfe's report:
159 people died when a multivortex EF-5 tornado visited Joplin, Missouri on May 22nd. Think Joplin is far along the road to recovery by now? This video might make you reconsider.
The upper slice of the screen shows footage recorded on a drive-through of Joplin’s 20th Street in August. It’s a verdant, pleasant Southern scene. Below that is a horrorscape of imploded houses and denuded trunks recorded just last week, on July 8. The destruction just goes on, and on, and on.
Here's his video presentation...
Go to HelpJoplinRebuild.com or HelpJoplin.com to help their efforts...
Go to ToomersForTuscaloosa.com for aid in Alabama...
And go to the Help Catoosa Facebook page to assist Georgia in their efforts...
Full disclosure: The HQ is involved in these causes...
Admittedly, the HQ has been wrapped up in a few projects this summer- two of them involve the nastiest natural disasters that the HQ's HQ has seen in a long time...
We found this report on the WJLA-TV website when we were trying to stay updated on the Roger Clemens perjury trial...
From Metcalfe's report:
159 people died when a multivortex EF-5 tornado visited Joplin, Missouri on May 22nd. Think Joplin is far along the road to recovery by now? This video might make you reconsider.
The upper slice of the screen shows footage recorded on a drive-through of Joplin’s 20th Street in August. It’s a verdant, pleasant Southern scene. Below that is a horrorscape of imploded houses and denuded trunks recorded just last week, on July 8. The destruction just goes on, and on, and on.
Here's his video presentation...
Go to HelpJoplinRebuild.com or HelpJoplin.com to help their efforts...
Go to ToomersForTuscaloosa.com for aid in Alabama...
And go to the Help Catoosa Facebook page to assist Georgia in their efforts...
Full disclosure: The HQ is involved in these causes...
"The Rock" Calls Out John Cena
((HT: TheRock))
All we have to say is: This is awesome...
And this is why the HQ really doesn't watch Monday nights anymore...
The writing can't handle the truth...
All we have to say is: This is awesome...
And this is why the HQ really doesn't watch Monday nights anymore...
The writing can't handle the truth...
Goalie On Goalie Scoring In MLS
((HT: SanJoseEarthquakes))
This rarely happens, so the HQ figured it would be a good marker to show...
It's the time of year where the international squads make their summer tours to the states and West Bromwich Albion made their trek to San Jose to take on the Quakes...
The lesson here is: Keep your eyes on the goalie at all times...
Cue David Bingham...
It was Bingham's pro debut, and the Quakes won 2-1...
This rarely happens, so the HQ figured it would be a good marker to show...
It's the time of year where the international squads make their summer tours to the states and West Bromwich Albion made their trek to San Jose to take on the Quakes...
The lesson here is: Keep your eyes on the goalie at all times...
Cue David Bingham...
It was Bingham's pro debut, and the Quakes won 2-1...
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
"White Ribbon" Immigration Protest Planned At All-Star Game
((HT: KPNX-TV Phoenix))
Critics of Arizona's SB 1070 immigration law in Arizona are planning a protest outside Chase Field for tonight's All-Star Game.
The group Somos America plans to have up to 75 members stationed outside the stadium to pass out white ribbons to fans who may support their aims.
Founding President Roberto Reveles says that they want to express their opposition to the law.
SB 1070 requires all immigrants to obtain or carry immigration registration papers and requires police, while enforcing other laws, to question people's immigration status if there is a reasonable suspicion they're in the country illegally.
The law is being challenged in federal court.
Obviously...
Here's the sit-down with local attorney Daniel Ortega...
Critics of Arizona's SB 1070 immigration law in Arizona are planning a protest outside Chase Field for tonight's All-Star Game.
The group Somos America plans to have up to 75 members stationed outside the stadium to pass out white ribbons to fans who may support their aims.
Founding President Roberto Reveles says that they want to express their opposition to the law.
SB 1070 requires all immigrants to obtain or carry immigration registration papers and requires police, while enforcing other laws, to question people's immigration status if there is a reasonable suspicion they're in the country illegally.
The law is being challenged in federal court.
Obviously...
Here's the sit-down with local attorney Daniel Ortega...
Shorter University Heading to D2
Not really a surprise to NCAA Division II followers, but the worst-kept secret is now official, but Rome, Georgia's Shorter University has been granted acceptance into the NCAA and will head for the Gulf South Conference.
“This is a wonderful day for Shorter University and for our athletic program,” said Bill Peterson, who just completed his fourth year as Shorter’s Director of Athletics. “We are truly blessed and so appreciative of the support we have received from both our administration and our Board of Trustees. In particular, I would like to thank our coaches and our student-athletes. Their efforts made this tremendous possibility a reality. They are just a great group.”
From the university their ownselves...
Shorter immediately begins the three-year transition process as a candidate member for the NCAA during the 2011-2012 season, during which it will remain an active affiliate of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). Shorter has been affiliated with the NAIA since the 1950s.
Shorter remains eligible for regular season and post-season tournament championships in both the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC) and Mid-South Conference (MSC) during the 2011-2012 athletic campaigns, and also remains eligible to compete in NAIA national tournaments.
“We are very proud of our long-term relationship with the NAIA, the SSAC and the Mid-South, and we look forward to another great year in 2011-2012,” Peterson said. “We have been blessed with many wonderful friendships, in particular NAIA CEO Jim Carr and championship director Dennis Green along with our two commissioners, Dr. Kurt Patberg of the SSAC and Steve Baker of the Mid-South.”
The university will enter the 2012-2013 and 2013-2014 academic years as an NCAA “provisional status” member while moving towards membership in the Gulf South Conference.
During this two-year provisional status period, Shorter will compete against full Gulf South Conference and NCAA Division II schedules and be required to operate under NCAA Division II regulations, but will be ineligible to compete in post-season play. Shorter’s athletic schedules will include Gulf South Conference members such as the University of Alabama-Huntsville, University of North Alabama, University of West Alabama, Delta State University, Valdosta State University, University of West Georgia and the University of West Florida, among others.
Here's what the Hawks will be chasing...
((HT: NCAA/ESPN/youtube))
“This is a wonderful day for Shorter University and for our athletic program,” said Bill Peterson, who just completed his fourth year as Shorter’s Director of Athletics. “We are truly blessed and so appreciative of the support we have received from both our administration and our Board of Trustees. In particular, I would like to thank our coaches and our student-athletes. Their efforts made this tremendous possibility a reality. They are just a great group.”
From the university their ownselves...
Shorter immediately begins the three-year transition process as a candidate member for the NCAA during the 2011-2012 season, during which it will remain an active affiliate of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). Shorter has been affiliated with the NAIA since the 1950s.
Shorter remains eligible for regular season and post-season tournament championships in both the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC) and Mid-South Conference (MSC) during the 2011-2012 athletic campaigns, and also remains eligible to compete in NAIA national tournaments.
“We are very proud of our long-term relationship with the NAIA, the SSAC and the Mid-South, and we look forward to another great year in 2011-2012,” Peterson said. “We have been blessed with many wonderful friendships, in particular NAIA CEO Jim Carr and championship director Dennis Green along with our two commissioners, Dr. Kurt Patberg of the SSAC and Steve Baker of the Mid-South.”
The university will enter the 2012-2013 and 2013-2014 academic years as an NCAA “provisional status” member while moving towards membership in the Gulf South Conference.
During this two-year provisional status period, Shorter will compete against full Gulf South Conference and NCAA Division II schedules and be required to operate under NCAA Division II regulations, but will be ineligible to compete in post-season play. Shorter’s athletic schedules will include Gulf South Conference members such as the University of Alabama-Huntsville, University of North Alabama, University of West Alabama, Delta State University, Valdosta State University, University of West Georgia and the University of West Florida, among others.
Here's what the Hawks will be chasing...
((HT: NCAA/ESPN/youtube))
Mike Leach: "My Biggest Regret Was Not Cutting Adam James..."
((HT: SI.com))
Former Texas Tech head coach Mike Leach's new book is out...
"Swing Your Sword" could be a metaphor for a lot of different things, but obviously, the biggest story that Leach could tell in this one was the run-in with the James Gang and how the whole Adam-and-Craig against Leach element came to be...
From the book...
As a coach, you want it to work out. We invested a lot of time in coaching Adam James. We worked hard to try to rehabilitate him to make him a working part of the team. We thought he may have simply been the victim of his dad's little-league father tendencies, and that he'd eventually find a way to be his own, independent person. But that didn't turn out to be the case. I should've cut my losses, but I was really hoping that he'd improve and stuck with him.
Here's the video that Adam cut that started everything...
((HT: scottsterdotcom))
Former Texas Tech head coach Mike Leach's new book is out...
"Swing Your Sword" could be a metaphor for a lot of different things, but obviously, the biggest story that Leach could tell in this one was the run-in with the James Gang and how the whole Adam-and-Craig against Leach element came to be...
From the book...
As a coach, you want it to work out. We invested a lot of time in coaching Adam James. We worked hard to try to rehabilitate him to make him a working part of the team. We thought he may have simply been the victim of his dad's little-league father tendencies, and that he'd eventually find a way to be his own, independent person. But that didn't turn out to be the case. I should've cut my losses, but I was really hoping that he'd improve and stuck with him.
Here's the video that Adam cut that started everything...
((HT: scottsterdotcom))
Monday, July 11, 2011
OSG High: Colorado Parents Charged After Basebrawl
((HT: KUSA-TV Denver))
What happens when you mix zealous parents, a bad call, and their teenage kids...???
A big fight where three different parents are brought up on charges- one parent has a long, criminal history and the other is a town DA...
Here's the latest from Castle Pines with Will Ripley...
What happens when you mix zealous parents, a bad call, and their teenage kids...???
A big fight where three different parents are brought up on charges- one parent has a long, criminal history and the other is a town DA...
Here's the latest from Castle Pines with Will Ripley...
OSG High: Colorado Parents Charged After Basebrawl
((HT: KUSA-TV Denver))
What happens when you mix zealous parents, a bad call, and their teenage kids...???
A big fight where three different parents are brought up on charges- one parent has a long, criminal history and the other is a town DA...
Here's the latest from Castle Pines with Will Ripley...
What happens when you mix zealous parents, a bad call, and their teenage kids...???
A big fight where three different parents are brought up on charges- one parent has a long, criminal history and the other is a town DA...
Here's the latest from Castle Pines with Will Ripley...
Sunday, July 10, 2011
What If Gus Called The World Cup...???
((HT: ESPN/FIFA/AlexCohenPSU))
It might be a little something like this...???
Cue Gus and Raf...
Close, but cute nonetheless...
Major Onions!!!
Carry on...
It might be a little something like this...???
Cue Gus and Raf...
Close, but cute nonetheless...
Major Onions!!!
Carry on...
DEVELOPING: Team USA's Uphill Battle Against Brazil aka Surviving "The Dresden Screwjob..."
Okay, let's face it...
The US soccer squad got absolutely screwed in their quarterfinal against Brazil...
After having a 1-nil lead in the second half, a red card was called against Rachel Buehler holding the opposition from a scoring opportunity. That makes it 10v11 and a penalty kick situation...
The penalty kick was next...
((HT: FIFA/youtube))
So Solo leaves her line early, which every goalie in the world does...
Rekick, goal, and we're tied...
((HT: ESPN/FIFA/youtube))
The best the Stars and Stripes could do is hold on through overtime and PK's...
It was very small consolation that the Brazil side, and especially Marta, were booed at every opportunity handling the ball for the remainder of the contest.
But, with an offsides call omitted, in the 92nd minute, Marta registered her second goal of the game- Brazil picked up the 2-1 lead.
((HT: ESPN/FIFA/youtube))
Add to that the gamesmanship by "injured" players in the second 15-minutes, and the HQ will go ahead and call this the "Dresden Screwjob..."
But Megan Rapinoe sends a ball into the box in the second minute of extra time and Abby Wambach sends it into the net to force PK's...
On the 12th anniversary of the 1999 WWC victory in PK's over China, Ally Krieger's PK shot in the top of the 5th frame gets the US into the semi-finals...
Poetic justice for the red, white, and blue...
The US soccer squad got absolutely screwed in their quarterfinal against Brazil...
After having a 1-nil lead in the second half, a red card was called against Rachel Buehler holding the opposition from a scoring opportunity. That makes it 10v11 and a penalty kick situation...
The penalty kick was next...
((HT: FIFA/youtube))
So Solo leaves her line early, which every goalie in the world does...
Rekick, goal, and we're tied...
((HT: ESPN/FIFA/youtube))
The best the Stars and Stripes could do is hold on through overtime and PK's...
It was very small consolation that the Brazil side, and especially Marta, were booed at every opportunity handling the ball for the remainder of the contest.
But, with an offsides call omitted, in the 92nd minute, Marta registered her second goal of the game- Brazil picked up the 2-1 lead.
((HT: ESPN/FIFA/youtube))
Add to that the gamesmanship by "injured" players in the second 15-minutes, and the HQ will go ahead and call this the "Dresden Screwjob..."
But Megan Rapinoe sends a ball into the box in the second minute of extra time and Abby Wambach sends it into the net to force PK's...
On the 12th anniversary of the 1999 WWC victory in PK's over China, Ally Krieger's PK shot in the top of the 5th frame gets the US into the semi-finals...
Poetic justice for the red, white, and blue...
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