Texas Bowl 2006-Final Score: Rutgers-37 Kansas State-10

Final Score: Rutgers-37 Kansas State-10

The Most Valuable Player of the Game is Rutgers running back Ray Rice.

He rushed for 170 yards on 24 carries and one touchdown.Thanks for being with us for the game.

Please visit TexSport Publications at http://texsportpub.com/ for final reports and game analysis from writer Robert Kelly and game action photos by Darla Tamulitis.

Texas Bowl 2006

Coming to you LIVE from the Texas Bowl in Houston, Texas, the 2006 Inaugural Texas Bowl featuring the Scarlet Knights of Rutgers University (10-2) and the Wildcats of Kansas State (7-5).

TexSport Publications reporter Robert Kelly will be posting LIVE during the game at our mirror site http://texsporttexasbowl2006.blogspot.com.

Please visit the site for up-to-the-minute action from the game.

After the game, visit our main publication site at http://texsportpub.com for a final rap-up and the complete coverage of the game.

Final Score: Cedar Hill 51 Cypress Falls 17

By Robert H. Kelly

The second half saw much of the same at the first, with Cedar Hill and quarterback William Cole continue their dominance of a seeming uninspired Cypress Falls squad.

Hill, who was named the Offensive Player of the Game, lead his team to even more scores and the defense, which capitalized on every Eagle mistake was instrumental in keeping the Longhorns at bay.

Every time that Cy-Falls would take possession of the ball, they would either be pummeled by the Longhorn defense or would fail to execute. On those instances, the Eagles would pounce on them like a hungry dog, or should I say longhorn, that had missed a few meals.

Only when the Longhorns started emptying the bench, allowing the second and third string players a chance to get into the fray, did the Eagles start producing.

Their lone score in the second half came on a blocked punt, which resulted in a touchdown.

On a more positive note, both teams should be complemented on achieving the highest pinnacle in scholastic athletics; playing for a state championship.

If that was they only thing that these fine student-athletes gained from the game, then it was worth it.

However, feeling good about oneself was not the desired outcome that either team desired. Both wanted to win the state title.

In the end, one will have a very enjoyable ride back to the Dallas area, while the other will dream of what could have been, what they could have done better, and about their future in their right back to Houston.

UIL 5-A Division 2 Football Championships: Cedar Hill -vs- Cypress Falls: Halftime Report

Cedar Hill quarterback William Cole dominates Cy-Falls in the first half of their UIL 5-A Division 2 State Championship matchup. Photo by Darla Tamulitis

By Robert H. Kelly

Blogging live from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, it is now halftime at the UIL 5-A Division 2 Football Championships between Cedar Hill High School "Eagles"and Cypress Falls High School Longhorns.

In a match that I feel should have been much closer that it is, Cedar Hill had totally dominated the Eagles. Jumping out to a 31-10 lead at halftime, the Eagles seem to be playing at a much higher level that their opponents.

Quarterback William Cole, who is totally dominating the game, has rushed for 210 yards on 12 plays and scored two touchdowns. In addition, Cole is also 6 for 10, with one interception, for 67 yards and one touchdown.

The Longhorns have 248 yard rushing and 67 yards passing for a total of 315 yards. Compare that to Cypress Falls, who only have 198 total yards, with 150 yards passing and 48 yards rushing.

Cy-Falls had possession o for 13:36 but couldn't seem to do anything with it. The offense is sluggish and when they do advance the ball, they quickly loose focus or turn the ball over.

Quarterback Jeff Welsh is 14-8 for 150 yards and one interception, but that was not enough to counteract the highly effective Longhorn offense.

Cole has simply taken control of the game and is dictating his terms to the Longhorns. Whatever college or univeristy gets this young man is in store for a multitude of victories.



If Cy-Falls cannot find a way to stop him, it is going to be a long, hard drive back to Houston.

Cougars Take 7th at Miami (Ohio) Swimming Invitational

From the University of Houston Sports Information Office

University of Houston senior captain Szintia Szanto posted a time of 2:19.24 to win the 200-yard breaststroke Saturday during the final day of the Miami (Ohio) Invitational at Corwin Nixon Natatorium.

Szanto was not the only Cougar swimmer to perform well Saturday. Sophomore Andrea Pa'lmai finished third in the 200-yard backstroke with a time of 2:03.93, while sophomore Lauren VanCleave earned a third-place finish in the 100-yard butterfly with a time of 56.67.

The Cougars finished seventh of 11 teams after scoring 714.5 points during the three-day meet. Host Miami (Ohio) won the meet with 1873.5 points, while Truman State was second with 1452.5 points. Denison (1,200), Oakland (1,159.5), Cincinnati (1,044) and Emory (821) rounded out the Top Six team leaders.

Greatest Moment in Sport: USA-USSR Hockey at 1980 Winter Olympic Games

By Robert H. Kelly This is without a doubt, the greatest moment in USA Olympic history, if not the entire world of sport. Of course I am talking about the USA defeating the USSR in hockey at the 1980 Olympics in Lake Placid. Many will disagree, and they are entitled to their opinion, but in this writer's mind, it was the great moment in the history of sport. Of couse, I was not there. I WAS watching it on TV. Not even I thought such a feat could happen. It just goes to show if you want it bad enough, and you believe in miracles..they can happen. What a time. The Olympics as they should ALWAYS be!!! What a shame they have turned into a mere shadow of their former self.

Rousey, Carrion and Reser Among Dallas Competitors This Weekend

From USA Judo Press Release

(Grapevine, Texas) – More than 450 judo players are expected to compete on Saturday at the Dallas Invitational Judo Championships, a Senior Elite domestic tournament and one of the longest-running events in the United States.

The tournament is being held at the Hilton DFW Lakes in Grapevine, 1800 Hwy 26 East, and will begin at 8:30 a.m. with finals being held at 7 p.m.

The competition schedule is as follows:
Juniors 12 and Under … 8:30 a.m.
Juniors 13 – 16 … not before 10 a.m.
Senior Eliminations … not before 12:30 p.m.
Senior Novice and Masters … after Senior Eliminations
Senior Finals … 7:00 p.m.

Athletes scheduled to compete include:
Ronda Rousey (Santa Monica, Calif. / NYAC / 63kg), 2004 Olympian, two-time Junior World Medalist and #4 senior player in the world

Ryan Reser (Colorado Springs, Colo. / Olympic Training Center USA Judo National Training Site / 73kg), a Dallas native and two-time 2006 World Cup medalist

Danieska Carrion (CUB / Harlingen, Texas / Harlingen USA Judo National Training Site / 57kg), two-time World Championship medalist

Adler Volmar (Miami, Fla. / North Miami USA Judo National Training Site / 100kg), 1996 Olympian (HAI) and #1 in 100kg and Open divisions

Daniel McCormick (Arlington, Texas / Pedro’s Judo Center / +100kg), 2005 British Open bronze medalist

Kayla Harrison (Middletown, Ohio / Renshuden / 70kg), 2006 Senior National Champion and U.S. Open silver medalist

Taylor Takata (Harlingen, Texas / Harlingen USA Judo National Training Site / 66kg), 2006 National Champion and Pan Am Championships fifth-place finisher

Kirk Hoffmann (Colorado Springs, Colo. / Olympic Training Center USA Judo National Training Site / +100kg), 2006 Pan Am Team member

Franchesca Durand (Coral Springs, Fla. / North Miami USA Judo National Training Site / 52kg), 2006 Senior Nationals and U.S. Open bronze medalist

Bobby Lee (Coral Springs, Fla. / North Miami USA Judo National Training Site / 73kg), 2006 U.S. Open Champion and Senior Nationals bronze medalist

Miguel Ballesteros (Miami, Fla. / North Miami USA Judo National Training Site / 60kg), 2005 Pan American Infantile Champion

Ronnie Talledo (Coral Springs, Fla. / North Miami USA Judo National Training Site / 60kg), 2006 New York Open Champion

Natalie Lafon (Harlingen, Texas / Harlingen USA Judo National Training Site / 52kg), 2005-2006 Senior Nationals silver medalist

Phillip Spano (Tampa, Fla. / North Miami USA Judo National Training Site / 81kg), 2006 Junior National Champion

Myles Porter (Toledo, Ohio / Olympic Training Center USA Judo National Training Site / 100kg), 2006 World Blind Championships fifth-place finisher

Jeff Fong (San Jose, Calif. / San Jose State University / 66kg), 2006 Senior Nationals fifth-place finisher

Katie Sell (Harlingen, Texas / Harlingen USA Judo National Training Site / 70kg), 2006 Senior Nationals bronze medalist

All three USA Judo National Training Sites (Harlingen, Texas; North Miami, Fla. and the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs) will be well-represented at the competition.

The OTC squad will include not only top senior players, but also a strong crew of junior players as well as young athletes who will be competing in their first major event through USA Judo’s pilot program with the Police Athletic League.

TexSport Publications will publish results from all the matches as soon as they become available.

Conference USA Weekly Swimming Update

By Robert H. Kelly

SMU's Petra Klosova and Houston's Anastasia Pozdniakova claimed Swimmer and Diver of the Week honors, respectively, for their showings at the Art Adamson Invitataional hosted by Texas A&M University.

The Mustangs finished third in the loaded field, while the Houston divers notched 100 points.
East Carolina took seventh in the prestigious Nike Cup, while Marshall claimed second at the Western Kentucky Invite. Rice was also strong at the Indiana Invitational where no team scores were kept.

Click on the title of this posting to access complete swimming statistics for the week.

Conference USA: Womens Basketball Weekly Update

Conference USA has eight teams in action Friday night including an undefeted SMU (3-0). The Mustangs are set to host its two-day Hoops For The Cure Classic that features San Jose State, Bradley and Wisconsin-Milwaukee inside Moody Coliseum in Dallas, Texas. Tulsa and UCF will also be in action against top 15 programs in No. 9 LSU and No. 15 Baylor, respectively.

Click on the title of this posting to link to an abbreviated notebook with standings, stats and results. (does not include Marshall's game on Nov. 23)

Cougars Win 4 of 5 Meets at Phill Hansel Duals Weekend

The University of Houston 200 yard fresstyle relay prepare for the final event of the Phill Hansel Duals Weekend. The Cougar relay finished 4th in the event
Photo by Darla Tamultits


Sophomore Andrea Pa'lmai collected wins in the 200-yard backstroke and the 400-yard individual medley to lead the University of Houston swimming and diving team during the second day of the Phill Hansel Duals Weekend at the Campus Recreation & Wellness Center Natatorium.

The Cougars rallied on the final day of the 19-event, six-team meet to win four of five dual meets. The Cougars posted wins over Conference USA rival Rice (176-171), Mesa State (297-37), Trinity (281.50-66.50) and New Orleans (262-85) with only a loss to Nevada (203-150).

It was the Cougars' first win over Rice since a 147-118 decision to open the dual-meet season on Oct. 16, 1992.

With four dual meet wins this weekend, the Cougars also improved to 9-2 overall. That total tied the UH single-season record for dual-meet wins, equaling the mark set by the 2005-06 and the 2003-04 teams.

Pa'lmai finished first in the 200-yard backstroke with a time of 2:04.72, more than two seconds ahead of her closest competitor. The Budapest, Hungary, native added a similar finish in the 400-yard individual medley with a clocking of 4:27.57.

Senior captain Szintia Szanto finished first in the 200-yard butterfly with a clocking of 2:02.61, nearly a second faster than her closest competitor. The Budapest, Hungary, native also finished second in the 100-yard breaststroke.

Sophomore Anastasia Pozdniakova, the reigning C-USA Freshman Diver of the Year, won the 1-meter competition with 336.90 points. The winner of the 3-meter event on Friday, the Elektrostal, Russia, native was the only diver to crack 300 points in either event.

Sophomore Sasha Schwendenwein captured first place in the 500-yard freestyle with a time of 4:59.04.

The Cougars' 400-yard medley relay team of Pa'lmai, Szanto, Lauren Van Cleave and Jessica Shamburger finished second with a time of 3:55.51.

The Cougar Diving team returns to action when they compete at the Art Adamson Invitational next weekend in College Station, Texas. The Swimming team returns to the competitive waters at the Miami (Ohio) Invitational on Nov. 30-Dec. 2 in Oxford, Ohio.

The Cougars won't return to the friendly waters of the CRWC Natatorium until Jan. 12-13 when they play host to North Texas, New Mexico State and Florida International in a two-day meet.

Houston Leads Three Teams at Phill Hansel Duals Weekend

University of Houston swimmer Kristine Kelly swims the 100 yard backstroke during day one of the Phill Hansel Duals Weekend.
Photo by Darla Tamultits


Sophomore diver Anastasia Pozdniakova and sophomore swimmer Andrea Pa'lmai each posted first-place finishes to lead the University of Houston Swimming and Diving team Friday evening during the first day of the Phill Hansel Duals Weekend at the Campus Recreation & Wellness Center Natatorium.

In the six-team, two-day, 19-event meet, the Cougars grabbed big leads over Mesa State (155-21), Trinity (147.50-35.50) and New Orleans (134-49) but were trailing Conference USA rival Rice (93-90) and Nevada (109-77).

Pa'lmai captured first place in the 1,0000-yard freestyle with a time of 10:07.44, the fifth-fastest time in school history. Pozdniakova, the defending C-USA Freshman Diver of the Year and the reigning C-USA Diver of the Week, enjoyed a first-place showing with 377.55 points on the 3-meter springboard, more than 80 points ahead of her closest competitor.

The meet is named in honor of former UH swimming and diving head coach Phill Hansel. Hansel, considered the Father of Cougar Swimming and Diving, led the Cougars from 1975 to 1996, racking up 70 dual-meet victories, a school record that still stands. Hansel, a 1949 graduate of Purdue, was named the Southwest Conference Coach of the Year three times during his tenure, and mentored 31 swimmers to All-America honors, including Diane Johannigman, the first NCAA swimming national champion in UH history.

Hansel also had an impressive resume at the international level, serving as the manager of the 1992 U.S. Olympics teams and working with the Singapore teams at the 1984 and 1988 Olympics.

Senior captain Szintia Szanto finished second in the 200-yard breaststroke with a time of 2:17.80 and added a similar finish in the 200-yard individual medley with a clocking of 2:04.53.

Sophomore Sasha Schwendenwein finished second in the 200-yard freestyle with a time of 1:51.22, while sophomore Jessica Shamburger earned a second-place finish in the 100-yard backstroke with a time of 57.97.

Sophomore Lauren Van Cleave finished third in the 100-yard butterfly.
The Cougars' 200-yard medley relay team of Shamburger, Szanto, VanCleave and Schwendenwein started the day with a third-place finish.

Two UH Swimmers Honored By USA Swimming

By Chris Price

University of Houston freshmen swimmers Kristine Kelly and Linda Fox were recently named to the USA Swimming Scholastic All American Team by USA Swimming.

Kelly and Fox were honored for their scholastic and academic achievements, and were named to the elite squad for the third year in a row.

USA Swimming honors swimmers who maintain a 3.75 grade point average and compete at the national level swimming competition during their high school years.

Kelly competed for the Houston Cougar Aquatic Sports while Fox competed for the Houston Swim Club.

Both swimmers maintained their high GPAs and competed in both the SPEEDO Champions Series Short Course and Long Course Championships to qualify to receive the honors.

Wings Over Houston Airshow Scheduled for October 21-22

The 2006 edition of the Wings Over Houston Airshow is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, October 21-22 at Houston’s Ellington Field.

This year’s show will include the United States Air Force Thunderbirds, performing their close flying formations, tight turns and solo head-on flying.

Gates will open from 8 am to 6pm on Saturday and from 8 am to 5 pm on Sunday. Aerial performances will begin daily at 10 am.

Check back with TexSport Publications for updates and more information on this premier event.

Two More Longhorn Football Players Arrested

By Chris Price

University of Texas head football coach Mack Brown may need to add a position to his staff; Legal Defense Coordinator

For the second time in four months, Longhorn football players have been arrested and jailed for actions off the football field.

Early Monday, cornerback Tarell Brown and defensive back Tyrell Gatewood, along with former player Aaron Harris were stopped while driving on Interstate 35 about 2:50am.

A deputy pulled the group over after watching the car weaving erratically and coming close to hitting another car.

Brown was charged with unlawfully carrying a weapon, a loaded 9 mm handgun, and with possession of less than 2 ounces of marijuana. Gatewood and Harris were charged with the same drug misdemeanor.

The weapons charge is a Class A misdemeanor with maximum punishment of one year in jail and a $4,000 fine. The marijuana charge, which was for less than two ounces, is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine.

Coach Mack Brown said he met with both players and was "holding them out of all team functions as we gather as much information as possible before making a team decision."

This past May, former running back Ramonce Taylor was arrested in Bell County on the charge of possession of marijuana. He had already been dropped from the team for “academic reasons” at the time of arrest and is currently awaiting trial.

Texas High School Football 5-A Top 10 (Week 0)

TexSport Publications will post our weekly Top 10 poll of 5A high school football.

Our rankings are based on the reseach and opinions of our writers, photographer, along with various reporters and bloggers in Texas.

TexSport Publications
2006 Texas 5-A Football
Top 10 Rankings (Week 0)
(Current rank-school-record-last week's rank)

1. Lufkin (1-0) (1)
2. Southlake Carroll (0-0) (2)
3. Garland (1-0) (3)
4. A&M Consolidated (1-0) (4)
5. Austin Westlake (1-0) (5)
6. Smithson Valley (1-0) (8)
7. GP North Shore (1-0) (9)
8. Euless Trinity (0-0) (11)
9. Katy (1-0) (12)
10. SA O’Connor (1-0) (17)

LaMarque Bests Nederland 28-20 at Reliant Stadium

By Robert H. Kelly

La Marque High School came to Reliant Stadium to show their fans that they were deserving of a number 10 ranking in a Texas Football Magazine poll.

It took them a while to get started, but showed they were deserving of the ranking and perhaps much more.

The Cougars came back hard and heavy in the second half to kicked off the 2006 football season with a 28-20 win over Nederland.

Nederland senior running back Micah Mosley, on the second play from scrimmage, took the ball up the middle for a 68-yard touchdown run to give the Bulldogs a 7-0 lead just 64 seconds into the game.

La Marque came back quickly on their first offensive possession, effect ively driving downfield to cut the lead to 7-6. The Cougars drive lasted 4:29 for 60 yards in 12 plays.

Mosley took off on another big run for the Bulldogs, streaking down the right sideline for a 57-yard touchdown, taking the score to 14-6 with 3:23 to go in the quarter.

The second quarter saw La Marque quarterback Durklyn Haynes find receiver Joseph Florence with a 12-yard touchdown pass. Haynes then followed up with a two-point conversion to Shane Cams even the score at 14-14 at the half.

La Marque continued its offensive assault in the second half with a 54-yard touchdown by Marcus Frank on the second play.

The Bulldogs then drove 57 yards downfield in five plays, scoring on a 27-yard touchdown pass from Alex Moshier to Josh Cabra. The extra point attempt failed, leaving La Marque with a 21-20 lead.

The Cougars took scored a final time in the fourth quarter on a six-play, 76-yard drive that saw Haynes complete a 32-yard touchdown pass from Durklyn to Cams, giving La Marque a 28-20 victory.

FC Barcelona and Club America Battle to 4-4 Tie

By Robert H. Kelly

Before a record crowd of 70, 550 soccer crazed fans in Houston’s Reliant stadium, FC Barcelona and Club America of Mexico battled to a 4-4 tie.

The international friendly match saw forward Nelson Cuevas score three first half goals to give Club America a 4-1 lead at the half.

The match was dominated by Club America in the first half, with Barcelona managing to find the net only once on a kick by Rafa Marquez in the fifth minute. However the second half was all Barcelona

Club America took the lead early in the third minute as Cuevas found the goal from twelve yards out off an assist from Claudio Lopez.

Cuevas scored his second goal in the 30th minute and his third in the 44th minute.
Barcelona's Oleguer scored an own goal in the 65th minute to give Club America its 4-1 lead.

Forward Javier Saviola stared Barcelona’ comeback in the second half when he took a pass from forward Samuel Eto in the 85th minute to score from 15 yards to take the score to 4-2.

FIFA’s World Player of the Year Ronaldinho sat out the half due to fatigue from the heavy tour schedule. He was the World Player of the Year in 2004 and 2005.

He entered the game in the second half and cut Club America’s lead to 4-3 on a penalty kick in the 89th minute after being knocked down by Jose Antonio Castro.

Eto scored the goal for the tie in the 90th minute to end the game.

The match was preceded by the Los Angeles galaxy beating the Houston Dynamo 1-0 in an MLS match.

Thorpe Win Olympic Decathlon: 94th Anniversary

By Robert H. Kelly

94 years ago today, Jim Thorpe won the Olympic decathlon. With 8,412 points, he breaks the world record by an incredible 998 points. This came eight days after winning the pentathlon.

His closes competition was Hugo Wieslander of Sweden, who scored 7724 points.

When Thorpe is introduced at the awards ceremony there is a great burst of cheers, led by King Gustav V. Besides the gold medals, Thorpe receives a jewel-encrusted chalice in the form of a Viking ship (a gift from Czar Nicholas of Russia) for winning the decathlon and a life-size bronze bust of the Swedish king for capturing the pentathlon. In congratulating Thorpe, Gustav tells him, "Sir, you are the greatest athlete in the world."

Thorpe reputedly replies, "Thanks, king."

He was later stripped by the International Olympic Committee of his gold medals for professionalism. They were eventually restored to his family in 1983, thirty years after his death.

In this writerÂ’s humble opinion, Jim Thorpe was the greatest athlete of all time.
Below is a partial list of his achievements

* College Football Hall of Fame - 1951

* Charter Enshrinee in the Pro Football Hall of Fame - 1963

* All-America - 1911, 1912

* Olympic Decathlon and Pentathlon Champion - 1912

* AP Most Outstanding Athlete of the First Half of the 20th Century - 1950

* "America's Greatest Football Player of the half-century" - 1950

* ABC's Wide World of Sports Athlete of the Century - 2001

* Track and Field Hall of Fame

* In 1950, the nation's press selected Jim Thorpe as the most outstanding athlete of
the first half of the 20th Century

* From 1996-2001, he was continuously awarded ABC's Wide World of Sports Athlete of
the Century award

No other athlete in history can come close to these and his other achievements.

On one my numerous trips around the county to various sporting events, I had the opportunity many years ago to see his gold medals in the state capital in Oklahoma City. They were displayed in a case in the capital rotunda along with the classic painting of Thorpe in this 1912 Olympic uniform.

This was a major event in my life, as I grew up hearing about Thorpe from my father. I was fortunate to have my wife and young daughter with me.
The man is still inspiring athletes son many years after his great accomplishments and eventual death.

Say what you want about Michael Jordan, Joe Montana, Carl Lewis and all the rest. Yes, they are indeed great athletes, but none of them compare to Jim Thorpe.

He is indeed the GREATEST ATHLETE OF ALL TIME.

We should all take the time to think about this great athlete on the anniversary of his greatest Olympic achievement.

Arena Out At USA Mens Soccer Head Coach

By Robert H. Kelly

In a copywrited article from the Houston Chronicle, USA Soccer men’s head coach Bruce Arena’s contact will not be renewed by the U.S. Soccer Federation at the end of the year.

Arena, who has been the most successful coach in USA Soccer history, began the job in 1998, coached the men’s team to 71 victories and a quarterfinal appearance at the 2002 World Cup.

Now, three weeks after the Americans' disappointing first-round exit from the World Cup in Germany, Arena is out despite an apparent wish to return to the team.

Everyone knows the drill. If the team wins, it is the players. If the team loses, it is the coach.

I watched all the USA games in this year’s World Cup and it was obvious to me it wasn’t Arena’s fault they lost.

These guys played like they were out there for themselves and couldn’t have cared less about team goals.

I am sure they wanted to win, but they didn’t have the fire and enthusiasm of past teams. It was eleven guys playing as eleven, instead of eleven guys playing as one.
So USA Soccer personnel will find some big name coach from Europe, give him the reins of the program and say “Gitty-Up.”

Don’t be surprised if we don’t see Team USA any better in four years.
In fact, we could possibly be worse off.

I say “Good Bye to Bruce Arena. You did a GREAT JOB with what you had to work with. You will be sorely missed.”

USA Crushes Great Britain in World Cup of Softball Opener

From USA Softball Press Release
July 14, 2006

(OKLAHOMA CITY, OK) USA Softball sent a message in its opener at the World Cup of Softball presented by Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes with an impressive 14-0 shutout victory over Great Britain. After suffering a 2-1 loss to Canada in its opener at the 2005 World Cup, the U.S. was determined to not have it happen again. The team totaled16 hits in just five innings as the game was shortened to five innings due to the international run rule.

Team USA put up two runs in the first inning off a two-run homerun by Jessica Mendoza (Camarillo, Calif.) that scored Caitlin Lowe (Tustin, Calif.). The Great Britain defense kept the United States off the board in the second, allowing three hits but stranding three on base.

Monica Abbott (Salinas, Calif.) started in the circle going three innings, allowing no hits and striking out six batters. The bats of the red, white and blue came out strong in the third inning with the US posting five hits for six runs, hitting through the entire lineup. Natasha Watley (Irvine, Calif.) hit her first triple of the year scoring Laura Berg (Santa Fe Springs, Calif.) who singled to right field. With two outs, Mendoza again launched a ball over the fence, her third of the season, for two RBI. This is the first time in her career with the National team that she hit two homeruns in a game.

Alicia Hollowell (Suisun, Calif.) came in to pitch the fourth inning, striking out one batter. The team again scored six runs in the fourth off five hits. With two runners on Andrea Duran (Selma, Calif.), in her first International appearance with Team USA, soared a homerun ball over left field for a three-run homerun. Mendoza singled again for an RBI, finishing the game 3-4 with five RBI and two runs.

Jennie Finch (La Mirada, Calif.) wrapped up the game for the U.S. throwing the fifth inning with three strikeouts to close out the game in five due to the run rule ahead.

Team USA will take on Canada tomorrow at 6:30 p.m. (CT) to open up session II.

Astros Fire Gaetti as Hitting Coach

By Chris Price

The Houston Astros fired hitting coach Gary Gaetti on Wednesday and named Sean Berry interim hitting coach.

The Astros entered this season with three regulars, Brad Ausmus, Adam Everett and Willy Taveras, among the bottom of hitters in Major League Baseball at their positions.

In addition, veterans Craig Biggio and Preston Wilson were sure to produce below their career norms

It's hard to see what Gaetti could have done these cases. Maybe he deserves some blame for Jason Lane's decline, but if that's the case, he definitely deserves credit for how Chris Burke and Mike Lamb have progressed this season.

More than anything else, it might have been Morgan Ensberg's injury problems that cost him his job.

Berry had his one big year in the majors as an Astro in 1996. The 40-year-old was in his second year in the role of minor league hitting coordinator for the club.

Astros Acquire Aubrey Huff From Tampa

By Robert H. Kelly

The Astros, in an attempt to boost their record for the second half of the season, acquired outfielder Aubrey Huff from the Tampa Bay Devil Rays.

Huff, who played his high school ball at Vernon (Ft. Worth) High School and college ball at Vernon College in north Texas and the University of Miami is excited about coming home to play in Texas.

"I'll tell you," Huff said, "I'm very, very excited about Houston. There was a rumor last year about Houston, and I was excited to hear the rumor about it."

Trade rumors had been swirling around Huff for the past couple of seasons. Several clubs reportedly showed interest in him over the last few weeks as well, including the Tigers.

“It's like I've been dangling in front of teams the last three years," he said.
The question is where manager Phil Garner will decide to play him.

"I don't really know what the situation is with who they've got playing well and what have you," said Huff. "I've been playing third base here in Tampa, and this is the first year I've felt really comfortable playing third. I played right field, too, and I really enjoyed playing there."

First base is also an option.

"Whatever it takes to get the best possible lineup on the field is what I'll do," Huff said.

With the Astros clearing looking for anything that will raise them to the level that carried them to the World Series last season, Huff’s addition may be the added punch they need.

Bonds To Face Indictment

By Chris Price

In a copyrighted article from the New York Daily News, Major League Baseball has indicated that San Francisco Giants baseball player Barry Bonds will face indictment for perjury and tax evasion.

As I have stated in earlier posts, Bonds indeed will called to task for his actions (or lack of action).

Keep alert for further news on this story. TexSport Publications will be here to update the facts and give our own unique perspective on the issue.

Century 21 Home Run Derby

By Robert H. Kelly

Philadelphia Philles’ Ryan Howard wins the Century 21 Home Run Derby at PNC Park in Pittsburgh. He hit 23 home runs, defeating David Wright of the New York Mets by one run.

The Houston Astros’ Lane Berkman hit three home runs in the first round, but was eliminated.

At least it was good to see an Astro in the Derby.

On a personal note: Being born in Pittsburgh and growing up a diehard Pirate fan, it is good to see the All Star Game in Pittsburgh. I remember going to Three Rivers Stadium and seeing the Pirates play. I never got to go to Forbes Field, but I do remember seeing it on TV. In fact, my grandmother lived about three blocks from Three Rivers Stadium, in the same block as the Rooney family (of Steelers’ fame).

PNC Park looks great for the All Star Game, but I cannot be sad thinking about the parks of old. Oh well, progress marches on.

The final results of the Home Run Derby are listed below.

Click here for the final results.

USA Italy Battle to 1-1 Draw

By Robert H. Kelly

Feeling the possibly of an early exit and an end to their World Cup 2006 experience, the United States needed to step and play the type of soccer that would show the world they deserved to be here.

Facing an Italian that had far more tradition in the World Cup, the Americans stepped up to the plate, put the ball in the goal, and showed what good old American determination can do.

The Americans put themselves into a possible advancement to the next round with a 1-1 draw with Italy on Saturday. However, nothing has been determined, as all four teams in Group E still have a chance to advance to the second round.

The Italians head the way with four points (1-0-1), followed by the Czechs (1-1-0) and Ghana (1-1-0) with three points each and the United States ((0-1-1) with one point.

After Monday’s debacle, this writer felt the USA had already punched its ticket for an early return home. The one thing I had forgotten was that athletes rarely listen to sports writers and sports writers don’t determine the outcome of games, no matter how much we think we know.

Italy’s Alberto Gilardino, who scored in the 20th minute, voiced praise for the Americans after the match. “We came up against a strong and determined team,” he was quoted in saying.

The United States ties the match with a Cristian Zaccardo own-goal in the 27th minute.

The match was plagued by three red cards, with two of those coming in a span for five minutes."Two red cards in a span of five minutes is pretty hard. There's no way you prepare a team to play 10-on-9 for 45 minutes in a World Cup against a team like the Italians," said USA Head Coach Bruce Arena.

The Americans next take the field on Thursday against Ghana in their final match of the first round of World Cup 2006. They can still advance to the second round with a defeat of Ghana and with a Czech Republic victory over Italy.

New Jersey To Test HS Athletes For Steriods

By Chris Price

New Jersey becomes the first state in the country to begin statewide testing high school athletes for performance enhancing drugs.

On the National School Boards Association website, the specifics of the programs were detailed. They are listed below.

Sluggers on steriods? Joggers on juice? Placekickers on performance enhancers? While this might sound like a likely roster of Congressional testifiers on the topic of steroids, it's actually the latest group to come under scrutiny in high schools. On Wednesday, New Jersey became the first state to introduce a statewide steroid-testing policy for high school athletes.

An article in USA Today reports that according to the "Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 6% of U.S. high school students, or about 300,000, took steroids in 2003 without a doctor's prescription." In accordance with New Jersey's plan, student athletes testing positive for steroids will be punished with a one-year loss of eligibility.

The state expects to test about 500 athletes, with the state and New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association putting $50,000 toward the cost of the tests. Sixty percent of the tests will be performed on those participating in football, wrestling, track and field, swimming, lacrosse, and baseball, because NCAA data indicates that athletes in those sports are the most susceptible to steroid abuse.

California is also considering testing for athletes, but cites funding as an obstacle. Hawaii cites cost as a "red flag" in addition to the "legal ramifications" of testing.

How widespread steroid usage is in New Jersey is unknown. Obviously it must be a problem, so they won’t take this action.

Be ready to see a frequent lawsuits if tests start coming back positive. After all, Barry Bonds lawyered up when his problems started, so while shouldn’t future little Barrys.

I would love to see that happen her in Texas, but the cost would be so prohibitive that iy would be like stopping steroid use in Major League Baseball.

World Cup 2006 Preview: USA -vs- Italy

By Robert H. Kelly

If the USA is going to have any chance against three time world champions Italy and eventually advance to the second round of the FIFA World Cup, they are going to have to execute their game plan better than they did in their 3-0 loss to the Czech Republic on June 12.

The USA looked unorganized and as if they lacked confidence, which combined with the uninspired play of much of their talent, allowed the three Czech goals to go unanswered.

USA head coach Bruce Arena was critical of some of his stars, and stated "If we come out and play as bad against Italy as we did against the Czechs, we're going to lose. It's just that simple."

The USA managed only six shots on goal as opposed to ten by the Check Republic. No matter how well you think you played, a team cannot win a game with a shooting percentage of .000.

Indeed the Americans need to get their minds in the game and play the way they did so many years ago, when they advanced to the quarterfinals and played Germany to a 1-0 loss in 2002

I do not know if they USA can recover from the uninspired play earlier in the week. If I had to bet the rent money, I would put it on Italy, with a 3-0 win.

That decision is being made with my head. If I decided with my heart, I cannot say I wouldn’t still pick Italy. I think the Italians are simply a much better team.

HE Even Cheats At Golf!!!

By Robert H. Kelly

I knew he was despicable. I knew he couldn't be trusted. He cheated on his wife and lied about it. If he couldn't keep the most sacred vow that he ever took, how can he be expected to honor any other promises he made.

There are many things that bother me about Clinton, but to cheat when playing with Tiger Woods.

WOW!!! What a loser!!!

I don't know if the story is true or just a story told to a group of people to get a laugh.

But it doesn't matter. I believe it.

This guy has NO MORALS and NO CONSCIOUS!

Just something to think about.

A Different View on Bonds "Overtaking" Ruth

This is a very nice article about a former teammate of Babe Ruth, and his views on Bonds passing "The Bambino" on the home run list.

It brings some very interesting points to the forefront of the story.

It is GOOD READING! Check it out!

Bonds Days Are Numbered

By Robert H. Kelly

FOXSports.com writer Ken Rosenthal states in a copywrited article that

It's finally over — Barry Bonds has passed Babe Ruth. Now comes the big question, the better question, the question that gives commissioner Bud Selig insomnia.

I make a prediction here:

Bonds will not play next season. He will hang it up sometime after the World Series.

After all, he will have nobody to blame his problems on. If he tried to break Hank Aaron's record, then he can't play the race card.

I say, "Goodbye to bad trash!"

But I know the IRS and the Feds will still be looking into him, and if justice is indeed poetic, they WILL eventually get him.

Just some food for thought!

UT's Ramonce Taylor Arrested For Drug Posssion

By Chris Price

University of Texas running back Ramonce Taylor was arrested early Sunday after Bell County sheriff's deputies found marijuana in a backpack in the rear of his vehicle.

Is this another case of a star athlete gone bad?

Is this another case of a school turning a blind eye to a problem?

Is this another case of an athlete perhaps getting special privileges because he is an athlete?

I sure hope not, but only time will tell where this story goes.

Does anyone want to make a bet of what the coaching staff in Austin will say about this young man?

Remember how they came to defense of Vince Young when it was reported he made a low score on his Wonderlik test?

Only time will tell? Let's wait and see what happens.

Grand Jury Convened To Look At Barry Bonds

By Robert H. Kelly

A federal grand jury is considering whether to indict San Francisco Giants outfielder Barry Bonds for perjury as a result of the testimony he gave to another grand jury over one year ago.

Bonds' playing days may be quickly coming to an end. It has been stated previously on this web site that if the federal government gets an interest in you, that interest does not go away.

Look at the attitude he has taken his whole life: "I am great." "I can do whatever I want." "I am a PLAYER and no one can mess with me."

Well, he is being messed with, and all his big talk and cool vibrato isn't going to help him one bit. If he lied to the grand jury 16 months ago, he is nailed!

As a good friend always says: "It isn't over until the fat lady sings." However, it appears that the fat lady is definitely getting close to the end of her song.

NEWS FLASH: DNA Tests Prove Duke Players Innocent Of Rape

DNA test results released today indicated that not one member of the Duke University's lacrosse team committed rape against an exotic dancer who was in performing at a team party.

The woman, who is a North Carolina Central University student, told police that she was performing as an exotic dancer at a March 13 party attended by lacrosse team members when she was pulled into a bathroom, beaten and raped by three men.

Time will tell how this will play out, but you can bet that these young men's college life has been disrupted, perhaps beyond repair.

Civil suits against the young woman might send the message not to make false charges against people. Perhaps the district attorney should consider charges against the woman for making a false report.

Did things possibly get out of hand at the party? Probably. But accusing three young men of rape went way over the line.

Perhaps Duke University needs to take a more active roll in what it's athletes are doing on their spare time. After all, incidents like this will hurt the university, the athletes, and many others, no matter whether they are true or not.

Two Suggestions To Deal With The Barry Bonds "Issue"

By Robert H. Kelly

On April 8, 1974, Hank Aaron passed Babe Ruth as Major League Baseball’s All Time Home Run Leader. He did it without the aid of the latest scientific and chemical breakthroughs and developments know to mankind.

If Bonds does surpass Aaron and Ruth, there should be a BIG asterisk placed in the record book. I would be very surprised if that is allowed to happen. After all, Roger Maris’ asterisk was still a legitimate record.

I have two solutions to the Bonds controversy. I doubt, however, either would ever be seriously considered.

1. The commissioner has a meeting with Bonds. He is asked to quietly retire and no
further inquiries into his use of steroids by MLB would be done. His current
totals would stand, but he would be denied the All Time Home Run Leader. If he
refused, then all evidence that MLB has will be turned over the courts and MLB
would cooperate fully with any investigation. He would also be suspended until
the investigation is over.

2. Have every pitcher in MLB pitch around him. Walk him on every bat. He would NEVER
get a hittable ball pitched to him.

Now I know Bonds, his lawyers, the San Francisco Giants organization, the Players’ Union, and others in MLB would complain and raise so much of a ruckus that the sports pages would be filled for months with exclusive coverage of the matter.

At that point, every piece of information and data would be presented to the public. Tie him up in so much controversy that he couldn’t hold up under the pressure.

These two solutions would never be seriously considered. After all, he has rights, as we all do. But that is what I would do if I have any decision making power in the situation.

If they did occur, Bonds would state that everyone was out to get him. He would declare everyone who was against him as racist, and that no one wants a black man to succeed. The funny thing is that the record he is trying to break is held by a black man, and he is even wavering on whether Bonds record assault is legitimate.

Over the next weeks and months, watch Bonds stats and see what happens. If he indeed does hit fewer home runs and get more walks, you can be sure he will speak out that he is the target of racists he is being treated unfairly, and nothing has been proven dealing with his alleged steroid use.

After all, wasn’t he quoted making racists statements in the book “Game of Shadows”?

So I guess he is correct in stating racism is involved it this controversy. The sad thing is, HIS racism is what perhaps caused the problem in the first place, along with that “green monster” called jealousy.

Jesse Jackson Gets Involved In Bonds’ Controversy

By Chris Price

The Rev. Jesse Jackson says Major League Baseball and San Diego police failed to protect Barry Bonds after a fan threw a syringe near the San Francisco slugger as he came off the field after the eighth inning Monday night in San Diego. The object did not appear to have a needle, and Bonds called it a syringe.

Jackson was quoted in saying,

That fan should have been arrested. That object could have had a needle in it. It could have hit him. The commissioner of baseball must be outspoken in protecting any players whose lives are in jeopardy, whose security is at risk.

San Diego Padres chief executive officer Sandy Alderson had a different description of the object.

The object in reality appeared to be of the size of something you would use to baste a turkey and not a syringe per se.

Jackson was quoted further,

For some people, it's about suspicion of drug use because they have no proof. For others, it's a cover for other anger that they have. For example, the closer Hank Aaron got to Babe Ruth's record, the more violence and hate mail he received. You cannot let this thing build to the point of irreversible danger.

It was just a matter of time before the Reverend Jackson became involved in the Bonds controversy.

As usual, he takes advantage of a situation to promote his own agenda. I guess he figures it is good for his own image to support Bonds and can us it to further his own causes.

I just wonder why he wasn’t standing in support of Representative Cynthia McKinney.

Steroids ARE Against The Rules In Major League Baseball

By Robert H. Kelly

It seems steroids are against the rules of Major League Baseball.

In a story by Richard Justice in the Houston Chronicle, it is stated and evidence shown that illegal drugs (which include steroids) are against the rules and policies of Major League Baseball.

A memo to all clubs, in 1991 from then commissioner Fay Vincent, states that fact.

It may be the end of Bonds' career is nearer than anyone previously thought.

Explanation of Bonds' Steroid Use

By Robert H. Kelly

I read an interesting piece today on the internet.

It gave an explanation of why Barry Bonds took steroids.

I LOVE IT!!!!!

But
Other
National/American Leaguers
Did
Steroids

I DO LOVE IT SO!!!!

A rational explanation of why Bonds took steroids.

Now we can all sleep at night knowing Bonds had a legitimate reason for breaking the law and disgracing himself and the game.

Eagle Finswimming Club Wins Texas Open

By Chris Price

(Pasadena, Texas) The Eagle Finswimming Club of Pasadena beat six other teams for top honors at the 2006 Texas Open Finswimming Invitational, defeating second place and meet host Finswimming Association of Southeast Texas.

FAST's Kristine Kelly of Deer Park, Jenna Taylor and Christian Castro both of Pasadena combined for six gold medals, but it wasn't enough to defeat the Eagle Finswimming Club's depth. The Eagles won only won gold medal, but as a result of that depth, defeated the host team, FAST, 64-58.5.

The Texan Finswimming Club of Houston (TFC) finished in third place with 39.5 points, followed in fourth place by San Jacinto College with 20 points, University of Houston in fifth place with 11 points, followed by Hillsdale College of Michigan and the US Navy-Florida Finswimming, tying for sixth place with 2 points.

Kelly won the women's 50 yard apnea, 200 yard surface and the 100 yard surface, establishing two new meet records.

Kelly broke the meet record in the 50 apnea with the time of 20.91 seconds and the 200 yard surface with the time of 1:56.61.

Taylor won the 50 yard surface and the 25 yard apnea, while Castro taking top honors in the 100 yard surface.

San Jacinto College's (SJC) Joshua Bass won the gold medals in the 25 yard apnea and 50 yard apnea.

Jacob McSwain, of the Eagle Finswimming Club, won the gold medal in the 200 yard surface, with University of Houston's (UH) Max Newlin winning the 50 yard surface.

Winning silver medals include Taylor in the 100 yard surface, Hannah Parham (EFSC) in the 50 yard apnea and 25 yard apnea, Daniel Green (EFSC) in the 100 yard surface, Bobbie Culver (EFSC) in the 200 yard surface, Adrian Hernandez (EFSC)-50 yard apnea, Ricardo Arredondo (TFC)-200 yard surface, Lauren Edwards (TFC)-50 yard surface, Bass-50 yard surface and Castro-25 yard apnea.

Those finswimmers winning bronze medals include Castro-50 yard apnea, Parham-100 yard surface, Hernandez-100 yard surface, Donna Anderson (EFSC)-200 yard surface, Edwardo Sanchez (EFSC)-200 yard surface, Nereyda Sepulveda (TFC)-50 yard surface, Marcus Puckett (EFSC)-50 yard surface, Edwards-25 yard apnea, and Newlin-25 apnea.

"I was very proud of all the finswimmers at the meet. It was very gratifying to have some many finswimmers and teams represented in the first meet of the 2006 season. I look forward to competing against them this season," said Darla Kelly, Head Coach for the Eagle Finswimming Club.

The next meet on the schedule is the Gulf Coast Invitational in April, followed by the Gold Cup International Invitational in May. These will be the final two meet for local finswimmers to make the times to be considered to represent the United States or their home countries at the World Scholar-Athlete Games at the University of Rhode Island in late June.

The Texas Finswimming Association (TFA) is the official governing body for competitive and recreational finswimming in Texas.

THE PLOT THICKENS: Even More Trouble For Barry Bonds

In a story on ESPN.com, it has been stated that a judge denied a bid by Barry Bonds' lawyers to block the authors and publishers from making money on a book claiming the San Francisco Giants' slugger used steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs.

Let's look at the statements the Bonds camp are making:

"We are seeking to have the credibility and integrity of the grand jury proceeding restored," said Bonds lawyer Alison Berry Wilkinson.

Real Meaning: They were not stating the steroid acquisitions were false, just that they way the author's obtained the information was illegal.

Earlier Friday, in a separate court action, Bonds' lawyers also sent a letter to a federal judge, demanding that Fainaru-Wada and Williams be held in contempt of court.

Real Meaning: Blame someone else for the problems. It takes the heat off of Bonds.

"The true victim is not Barry Bonds, but the sanctity and integrity of the grand jury process," the attorneys wrote to U.S. District Judge Susan Illston.

Real Meaning: Play the victim. It makes you look like people are out to get you.

"His bat speaks for himself and he's not going to speak on this action and this book," another Bonds' lawyer Michael Rains said.

Real Meaning: He is a great athlete. He shouldn't be held accountable for his actions, even if they were immoral or illegal.

The following things just might be keeping Barry up nights.

Bonds former lover, Kimberly Bell, who bolsters the steroid case against Bonds, said she received money from the seven-time Most Valuable Player not reported to tax authorities.

Real Meaning: He may have committed income tax fraud. Remember, the most powerful agency in the US government is the IRS.

"There is an ongoing investigation and I don't want to interrupt that in any way," Bell told Reuters on Thursday. "Because of the investigation and the potential there at this time I am not making any commentary on the situation or the book."

Real meaning: I don't want to do anything to screw up the case against Bonds. After all, he screwed me in many ways. Remember, payback is a bitch.

Legal experts say the book could also prompt the U.S. attorney to investigate whether Bonds lied to a federal grand jury when he testified in the BALCO steroid case. Bell has already testified before a grand jury.

Real meaning: If Bonds lied to a grand jury (we all know he did), then that jail cell may be closer than he thinks.

Bonds had better hope things don't get any worse. I feel that the storm is getting ready to sweep over Bonds, and he has a more than a few leaks in his boat.

Bonds Could Have Bigger Problems That Steroid Use

By Chris Price

A story on MSNBC is quoted in saying that Barry Bonds could be prosecuted for perjury in relationship to his grand jury testimony.

If the accusations that he paid off a woman with money he earned signing autographs at card shows, money that was not reported as income are true, then look out.

The IRS is someone he doesn’t want to get mixed up with.

The guy is beyond belief. Does he think anyone is going to step up to protect him if they get a subpoena?

I think not!!!

The plot thickens. This guy WILL go down. Mark my words.

Terrorists May Target NCAA Tournament

By Chris Price

The Houston Chronicle has a story that the FBI has issued a warning that a jihadist web site has recommended suicide bombings at sporting events like the NCAA basketball tournament.

I guess security at these events will now intensify.

To me it really doesn’t matter how long it takes to get in, as long as the fans, athletes, media, and support staff are somewhat safe.

Esparza Wins National Boxing Title

BECOMES PASADENA'S SECOND NATIONAL CHAMPION IN SEVEN MONTHS

by Robert H. Kelly

Colorado Springs, CO (March 11, 2006) Pasadena’s Marlen Esparza became Texas’s first national champion at the U.S. National Boxing Championships held at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Texas.

Esparza, a junior at Pasadena High School, competed in the light flyweight division (106 lbs) squared off against Michelle Turner of Newark, New Jersey.

Esparza held a slight lead early in the championship bout, finishing the third round with a score of 14-12.

She continued to build her lead in the final two minutes and came away with her first national title, notching the victory with the score of 18-12.

Esparza's sports career is not just limited to boxing. She competes in cross country, track and swimming at Pasadena High School.

Esparza became the school’s second national champion in the past seven months, following fellow PHS student Kristine Kelly who won the 200 yard backstroke at the AAU National Swimming Championships in New Orleans this past August.

Esparza and Kelly train together on the school’s swimming and track team.

“I was very pleased for Marlen,” said Darla Kelly, Esparza’s swimming coach at PHS. “She is a tough competitor and I knew she had that championship fire within her. I know she will use this championship as a motivation to continue her training and find success in all the sports she competes in."

Barry Bonds Poll on Sports Illustrated Web Site-Update # 3

Information compiled by Chris Price

The current poll results on www.si.com concerning Barry Bonds are listed below.

Poll Question: In light of the latest accusations of Barry Bonds' steroid use, should his records and awards stand?

Yes: 16% with 18469 votes (same as last posting)
Yes, with an asterisk: 19% with 21621 votes (same as last posting)
No, wipe them out: 64% with 63955 votes (-1 % from last posting)

Total votes: 112587

Checked and confirmed on www.si.com at 1:19pm CST on Friday, March 10, 2006

Two Texans Advance to Semis at USA Boxing Championships

by Robert H. Kelly

(Colorado Springs-March 8, 2006) Texans Jennifer Han and Hector Ramos moved one step closer to national titles Wednesday evening at the USA National Boxing Championships at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Han, of El Paso won her second bout of the tournament with a second round stoppage of fellow Texan Kayla Kay Combs (Lubbock, Texas).

Ramos, from Lackland Air Force Base near San Antonio defeated 2005 National Golden Gloves champion Brad Soloman, to move to the semifinal round for the second straight year.

Ramos is the U.S. National Championships bronze medalist from last year.

Semifinal bouts will be held Thursday, March 9 with women’s finals slated for Friday evening at the U.S. Olympic Training Center’s Sports Center.

The men’s finals are scheduled for Saturday evening at the Sheraton Hotel’s Grand Ballroom in Colorado Springs.

Barry Bonds Poll on Sports Illustrated Web Site-Update # 2

Information compiled by Chris Price

The current poll results on www.si.com concerning Barry Bonds are listed below.

Poll Question: In light of the latest accusations of Barry Bonds' steroid use, should his records and awards stand?

Yes: 16% with 15494 votes (+2% from yesterday)
Yes, with an asterisk: 19% with 18394 votes (+2% from yesterday)
No, wipe them out: 65% with 63955 votes (-4% from yesterday)

Total votes: 97843

Checked and confirmed on www.si.com at 8:59pm CST on Tuesday, March 7, 2006

Texas Boxers Advance at Nationals

By Robert H. Kelly

Texas boxers went six for ten in bouts at the 2006 United States National Boxing Championships being held at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Lone Star boxers won six preliminary bouts and advanced to the quarterfinals round at the championships.

Bantamweight Edwards Torres (Dallas, Texas) received the decision on a 13-13 tie over Salvador Ruix IV by having a superior punch count of 30-25.

Lightweight and 2005 Cadet World Championships silver medalist Jerry Belmontes (Corpus Christi, Texas) decisioned Rashad Ganaway by a score of 14-5.

Welterweight and 2005 U.S. Championships silver medalist Charles Hatley (Dallas, Texas) defeated Garvin Scott with a first round stoppage.

Light heavyweight Alfonso Lopez (Huntsville, Texas) won by a decision over Dalemanik Robertson with the score of 15-14, while
super heavyweight Eugene Hill (Dickinson, Texas) decisioned Kimbo Bethel 7-6.

Female featherweight and former national champion Jennifer Han (El Paso, Texas) won over Priscella Bonnell with a 13-5 decision.

Quarterfinal action continues Wednesday, March 8 with semifinal and final bouts slated for later in the week.

Barry Bonds Poll on Sports Illustrated Web Site-Update # 1

Information compiled by Chris Price

The current poll results on www.si.com concerning Barry Bonds are listed below.

Poll Question: In light of the latest accusations of Barry Bonds' steroid use, should his records and awards stand?

Yes: 14% with 8074 votes
Yes, with an asterisk: 17% with 10100 votes
No, wipe them out: 69% with 39548 votes

Total votes: 57722

Checked and confirmed on www.si.com at 8:59pm CST on Tuesday, March 7, 2006

Bonds + Steroids = Cheating ?

By Robert H. Kelly

Sports Illustrated reveals in excerpts from Games of Shadows, by Mark Fainaru-Wada and Lance Williams that Barry Bonds has been using steroids since 1998.

You can read excerpts from the article here.

Numerous facts are presented along with documentation that Bonds not only used the steroids, but was an active participant in their administration.

Bond has steadfastly denied he ever used steroids. He made those statements to a grand jury.

Isn’t that what Martha Stewart did? She did hard time for her lies, or at least as hard as it can be in a federal prison. Bonds did receive immunity from prosecution during his testimony before a federal hearing, but not from perjury or obstruction of justice.

Bonds should be made to answer questions regarding his steroid usage. Major League Baseball should make him answer, but they won’t. It would hurt them too much.

Bonds should be banned from baseball. Pete Rose was banned and all he did was gamble on baseball. Bonds cheated.....he cheated not only the game but the fans who supported him and all those players who came before him.

His records should be tossed out and the previous performances reinstated. He can deny his usage all he wants, but does he think people are stupid?

I have an autographed photo of Bonds that I got in the late 1980s when he was playing for the Pittsburg Pirates. He was a slightly built young ball player. Look at him now. There is no way he got that big from weights. He cheated and everyone knows it.

A poll on the Sports Illustrated web site indicates 69% of the public thinks his records should be wiped out. I have checked the site three times in the past three hours and the percentage is rising every hour.

Bonds days are numbered, or should I say already expired. I would be willing to bet that he doesn’t play much this season. He will be on the roster, take batting practice, and perhaps get into a game when the outcome is already determined.

He will retire without the homerun record, and complain the rest of his life that people were out to get him. It will be a media thing, or a fan thing, or a race thing. It will be anything but the real thing.

The real thing is that he made the choice to use steroids, to cheat, and to lie about it. Whatever he gets, he deserves.

But he doesn’t need to play the victim. We are all too smart to accept that.

Cy Fair Swim Club Wins SPEEDO Champions Series

Photo by Darla Tamulitis
Article by Robert H. Kelly

The Cy Fair Swim Club took the top honors at the 2006 SPEEDO Champions Series at Texas A&M University this past weekend.

Cy Fair scored 750.5 points to win the team title, followed by Texas A&M University in second place with 576 points and City of Plano Swim Team in third place with 542.5 points.

Over 800 swimmers representing 86 teams from around the United States competed for titles in 34 events. The meet was the last major competition prior to the NCAA championships and USA Swimming’s senior and junior national championships.

Matt LaBlanc, representing the City of Plano Swim Team was the High Point Winner in the mens division, scoring 97 points.

Sianna Plantation Aquatics’ Colleen Gordon was the Women’s High Point Winner with 161 points.

Camille Adams of the Cy Fair Swim Club was runner up in the womens division and Robert Looney of the City of Shreveport (LA) Swimming Team was runner up in the mens division.


Photo by Darla Tamulitis
Members of the Houston Cougar Aquatic Sports (COOG) 400 yard medley relay pose for a photo after swimming to a team record in the event.

And the New Name Is……………….?

By Robert H. Kelly

Succumbing to pressure from special interest groups, Houston 1836 has changed its name to Houston Dynamo. The new name and logo were announced at press conference today at the Museum of Natural Science’s Wiess Energy Hall.

Dynamo’s General Manager and President Oliver Luck was quoted in saying,

Dynamo is a word to describe someone who never fatigues, never gives up. The new name is symbolic of Houston as an energetic, hard-working, risk-taking kind of town. To me, Dynamo has a blue-collar feel to it, as well as an association with the energy business, which is one of the things Houston is known for. We think this is a great name that Greater Houston can rally around.

I understand there was a small amount of negative feedback from certain Hispanic activists and community groups concerning the original name. The name “1836” was the year that the city of Houston was founded.

Soccer teams in Europe have dates in their names, signifying the year their teams came into existence. Here in the United States, youth teams are named by the years their players were born in.

The name, is happens, offended some in Houston as it was the also the year Texas gained its independence from Mexico.

The team has the right to name itself anything it chooses. But to succumb to outside pressure to have the team’s name change could open a can of worms.

For years, individuals and groups have tried to change the names of various sports teams. The NCAA has policies that restrict post season play for any member school who has an “Indian related name.”

I can understand that policy, although I feel we are going way over board with naming rights. A team and its owners have the right to name a team whatever it wants.

One must remember that professional sports are a business. A business is in existence to make money. If the moniker “1836” was going to restrict the team’s earnings, then they should have the right changed it.


However, it would have been nice for someone in the front office to figure out that the name “1836” might have been a problem.

Either way people will go the games, support the team, and enjoy their love of soccer.

A rose by any other name…….

That says it all.

Texans May Trade Number One Pick

By Robert H. Kelly

Houston Texans general manager Charley Casserly was quoted Sunday that the possible trade the Texans’ first round pick might help the Texans fill multiple positions.

There's clearly players at the top of this draft that are marquee players. Players that are impact players, players that are going to go to the Pro Bowl, players that are going to sell tickets. We're going to get offers for this pick. We've already had discussions with teams. I think there's value in our pick.


It has been widely expected that the Texans would select Heisman Trophy winner Reggie Bush.

When the Texans gave quarterback David Carr a three year contact extension, it sent a clear message that he was not part of the problem with the Texans’ offense.

I just cannot figure the thinking of the Texans’ front office. They fire their head coach, but keep the general manager.

It just doesn’t make sense. Keep Casserly and possibly trade the first round pick.

I just don’t get professional football. Oh well, at least the Astros won the National League and went to the World Series this past year.

I guess the Texans will continue to be the only professional team in Houston without any type of championship.

Todd Hays Retires From Bobsled

By Robert H. Kelly

Del Rio’s Todd Hays declared his intent to retire for bobsled before posting his final two runs in the four man event at the Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy.

He has stated he would like to coach football, perhaps with his brother at Baylor University.

A word of advice to the coaching staff at Baylor: HIRE THIS GUY!

Imagine the motivation and work ethic that Hays could bring to the program?

Anytime you can get an Olympian from any sport to contribute to your program, one must jump on it.

Hays is a class act, and would be a welcome addition to any program.

Besides, he may be able to recruit some football players to go out for bobsled after their collegiate careers are over.

He is a great athlete; a great Olympian; a great Texan; and a great American. We need more people like him coaching in the college ranks.

USA and Proper Respect At The Winter Olympics

By Robert H. Kelly

In a recent article by Tom Reed of the Akron Beacon Journal, he stated that Olympic spirit is lacking by some members of the USA Olympic Team competing in Turin, Italy.

Much has been written about the Davis-Hedrick feud, Bode Miller’s attitude and failure to perform, Lindsay Jacobellis’ hot-dogging that cost her the gold medal and Mike Modano ranting and raving about USA Hockey.

I would like to take his article in a slightly different direction. When did it become acceptable not to show the proper respect when your country’s flag is raised and national anthem is played?

For many years, it has become accepted by people in the United States that proper respect (standing, removing one’s hat, placing your hand over your heart, and singing the National Anthem) is not necessary and is simply a matter of choice.

As I write, I know some will read this and think it is none of my business. One may chose to show respect in any way they desire.

I viewed two separate incidents dealing with this exact topic in the past week. Two very different incidents and neither involved the USA.

At the Olympic Games, when Italy’s men’s speed skating pursuit team received their gold medal and their national anthem was played, all four men placed their hand over their hearts and sang the Italian national anthem. All the Italians witnessing the ceremony sang with them.

It was a truly moving event. They were proud to win. They were proud for themselves, their country and all fellow Italians. They were proud to show how much they loved their country.

The second incident occurred at a soccer match between Jamaica’s Portmore United and Mexico’s Club America. The match was held in Houston at Minute Maid Park this past Wednesday, February 22.

While the national anthems of both countries were played prior to the start of the game, I rose from my seat in the press box to show proper respect. I am not a citizen or either country, but I rose to show proper for their country, as I have done my entire life. I was taught at an early age if you don’t have respect for others and their beliefs, they will not have respect for yours.

As the Mexican anthem was played, the entire Mexican team, along with their coaches and support staff stood and preformed a salute with their hand and forearm over their chest to show respect for their flag. They all sang the Mexican national anthem, along with their supporters in the stands.

I have been watching nonstop coverage of the Olympics, not only on NBC but also on the internet.

The United States has won nine gold medals in these Games. Of the nine gold medalists, I wonder how many of them showed the proper respect for our country and flag, when receiving their gold medal.

I know many out there with think what does it matter? But it does matter. It matters to me, the proud son of a veteran of World War 2, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

Has patriotism died in this country? Do we all think it is fine not to show proper respect for one’s country? I certainly hope not.

I looked for three things when USA Olympians receive their gold medals. Mind you, I was unable to see all the medal ceremonies. I have listed only the ones I personally witnessed.

So I asked of you, the knowledgeable reader, to give me your input. If you personally witnessed the medal ceremonies, let me know if you saw the following three signs of respect or not:

A. The athlete removed his/her hat when the national anthem was played.
B. The athlete placed their hand over their heart when the national anthem was
played.
C. The athlete sang the national anthem when it was played.

The USA gold medalists are listed below, along with my personal observations.
Please post your observations and comments and I will compile the results.

Chad Hedrick: Men’s 5000 meter Speed Skating
A. Yes
B. Yes
C. Yes

Shaun White: Men’s Snowboard Half Pipe
A. Yes
B. ?
C. ?

Joey Cheek: Men’s 500 meter Speed Skating
A. ?
B. ?
C. ?

Hannah Teter: Ladies’ Snowboard Half Pike
A ?
B. ?
C ?

Ted Ligety: Men’s Combined Alpine Skiing
A. ?
B. ?
C. ?

Seth Wescott: Men’s Snowboard Cross
A. ?
B. ?
C. ?

Shani Davis: Men’s 1000 meter Speed Skating
A. Yes
B. ?
C. ?
.
Julia Mancuso: Ladies’ Giant Slalom
A. Yes
B. I could not tell. She was holding her flowers in front of her chest, but that is
close enough.
C. ?

Apolo Anton Ohno: Men's 500 meter Short Track Speed Skating
A. Yes (his headband was on, however, I don't consider that a hat).
B. Yes
C. Yes

As in any survey or poll, this is unscientific and is strictly for informational purposes. I know some will think that I want to find out this information so I can attack those, who did not do these things, as unpatriotic. That is not my intention at all. I just would like to see which one did them.

After all, if athletes from Italy and Mexico can show a certain measure of respect for their country, we all should find it our duty as American to do the same.

Club America Defeats Portmore United 2-1

From CONCACAF Media Department Press Release
(additional information provided by Robert H. Kelly)

In a first ever soccer event for Minute Maid Park, Mexico's Club America defeated Jamaica's Portmore United by the score of 2-1 in the first leg of the 2006 CONCACAF Champions Cup this past Wednesday, February 22.

After battling to a scoreless tie at the half, Portmore took a 1-0 lead on a goal in the 51st minute off a kick by Kemeel Wolfe.

Club America's Aaron Padilla evened the score in the 61st minute followed by the game winning kick of Miguel Angel Zepeda in the 73rd minute.

Both teams will meet again in the second-leg of the Series 1 at the Estadio Azteca in Ciudad de Mexico on 8 March.

The 2006 CONCACAF Champions' Cup continues on Thursday when the Los Angeles Galaxy (USA) host Deportivo Saprissa (CRC) in the first-leg of the Quarterfinal Series 4 at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California USA. Saprissa are the defending CONCACAF title holders, while the Galaxy are the last US club to win the Champion' Cup.

The Semifinal victors will play for the 2006 CONCACAF Champions Cup on 11-13 & 18-20 April with the winner also qualifying to the FIFA Club World Championship in Japan later this year. The Champions Cup Runner-up will be one of the three CONCACAF invitees to the 2006 Copa Nissan Sudamericana.

The CONCACAF Champions Cup is the longest running international club competition in the region and has crowned the champion club of the Confederation since its inception in 1962.

Bagwell Reports To Astros Training Camp

By Robert H. Kelly

Jeff Bagwell reported to Astros Training Camp in Kissimmee, Florida today and the first person he ran into was owner Drayton McLane.

The 15-year veteran half-joked he felt he was at a tryout camp attempting to show Astros management that he is worthy of a spot on the squad.

Bagwell took grounders at first bases along with Lance Berkman and during the session threw about 15 times back to home plate and third base.

Bagwell hopes he will be one of the 25 players on the roster when the team breaks camp in April and was quoted in saying,

I believe if I can get out there and play. I will be one of the best 25 players, there's not a doubt in my mind. It's whether or not I can do that, whether I can actually get out there and play. If I can get in the batter's box for 500 at-bats, I promise you I'll be one of the best 25 guys out there.

In January, the Astros filed an insurance claim, stating that Bagwell was a disabled player who can no longer field his position.

Bagwell wants a chance to prove himself. To prove to himself, the Astros and other that he can perform at the level that is necessary to continue to play in the professional ranks.

I understand the business side of baseball. If I cannot play baseball this year and I am physically unable to play with the Houston Astros, trust me, I want them to collect as much insurance as they can. I'll write the letter. That's not an issue for me. But I just want the chance to see if I can play.

I say give him a chance. He has been a loyal Astro for 15 years and loyalty is important in sports. I know this is professional sport, but what could it hurt?

One never knows. He may surprise a large number of people.

The Handshake Viewed Around The World

By Robert H. Kelly

My dear departed grandmother was the salt of the earth. Her entire life she lived by a code. That code was “Always take the high road.”

When I was very young and I would hear her say that, I never really knew what she meant. I thought because she lived her early years in West Virginia and the area was prone to flooding; it meant to keep away from the rising water. Not to put yourself in a situation where you can cause yourself and your loved ones any harm.

As I grew older, I came to know the true meaning of her code. A day doesn’t go by that I don’t think about it. It is very obvious to me that one your man in Turin, Italy took that code to heart.

Chad Hedrick and Shani Davis finally shook hands. A simple handshake. That was all it was. But it spoke volumes. And that is what people love to see.

Was it a show of respect or a show for the cameras? That is anyone’s guess? But Wednesday night, at the Piazza Castello, the handshake happened. The handshake that the previous day Davis stated would have liked to receive after his 1000 meter victory.

As Davis stepped up on the medal platform to receive his silver medal for the 1500 meters, Hedrick reached over and shook his hand. Actually Hedrick had to reach up, as he was on the bronze medal platform, but this handshake was a gesture, and it made everyone happy.

In fact, Hedrick actually used gold medalist Enrico Fabris as a guardrail as he leaned over to offer the handshake. A happy Fabris smiled and gave both a high-five.
This was a pleasant change for the previous day’s post race press conference.
Opinions were given and hostility was evident as Davis stormed from the conference, obviously upset.

“It started to become a soap opera in there, so I decided to leave,” Davis said.
Hedrick was quoted in saying, “"I've got a 10K to worry about. He's (Davis) got two medals in his pocket so he's done great. He's competed at an awesome level and I hope to go and finish it for our team”

The two had not spoken to clear the air, though Davis seems to leave the door open for the prospect after the Olympics.

"Whatever happens, happens. I'm open to anything. It's just too bad that things got blown out of proportion the way they did. It shows that we're not perfect as human beings. None of us are perfect."

Davis even went further to state he is pulling for Hedrick to win the 10,000 meters. "I'm still rooting for him. He is an American."

So the saga goes on. Two young men very entrenched in their ideals. Conflicts were bound to occur. What will happen from this point on is anyone’s guess? I can assure you of one thing. One young man took the high road today. It doesn’t matter the reason. That is always the road best traveled. My grandmother knew it, I learned it, and he experienced it. That young man and everyone involved will reap the benefits for it for years to come.

Chad Hedrick on NBC's Today

By Robert H. Kelly

Chad Hedrick was interviewed by Matt Lauer on NBC’s Today this morning. They discussed his bronze medal performance in the 1500 meters and the “difficulty” between him and fellow USA speed skater Shani Davis.

Hedrick praised Davis and even said he was happy for Davis’ silver medal performance.

He stated that he and Davis have different views on things, and he felt betrayed by Davis’ refusal to participate in the team pursuit.

After the interview, Lauer said that Davis was also invited by NBC to appear and chose to decline.

After Davis’ actions in the post race press conference yesterday, there is no wonder he chose to decline the interview. He cannot seem to get the idea that you must present a positive image to the public in order to be viewed in a positive light.

I am not saying that NBC has the best coverage of the Olympics. It does treat athletes and teams in different ways. However, they are the main media source for people in the United States on the Winter Olympics Many of those same people will take what is presented by NBC as gospel.

Many of the posts on this site and others are defending Davis and chastising Hedrick. I just don’t see the logic of the views. Davis is a loner and has alienated himself from his fellow USA speed skaters. For him to say it would have been nice to get a handshake from Hedrick after his victory sounded like a desperate attempt to salvage some dignity and perhaps to be considered part of the team.

In order to be part of a team, you need to embrace the team concept. Being a part of the team means contributing to the team effort, living in the same area of the Olympic Village as your teammates, supporting all your teammates, and placing the goals and objectives of the team first in one's priorities. That is what being part of a team is about.

If Davis really had a change of heart, and wants to be part of the team, he needs to step up and redeem himself in the eyes of his “teammates.”

The post race press conference yesterday and the NBC interview today would have been a perfect opportunity to do that.

He CHOSE not to participate in the team pursuit. He CHOSE to bring up the conflict at the press conference. He CHOSE not to participate in an interview with NBC. He had the free will to make those choices.

To continue to put forth the negative attitude and behavior he has exhibited in Turin, it is obvious to many that his CHOICES are not reflecting positively on him.

As I have stated before. He just doesn’t get it. His supporters just don’t get it. I guess they never will.

Conference USA Swimming/Diving Championships Kick off Today at University of Houston

By Robert H. Kelly

The University of Houston is hosting the Conference USA Swimming and Diving Championships at the Student Recreation and Wellness Center Natatorium begining today (February 22) and continuing through Saturday, February 25.

Seven schools will be competing, with six women’s teams and three men’s team vying for conference honors.

In the women’s division, SMU, Rice, East Carolina, Tulane, Marshall, the University of Houston, while SMU, Hawaii and East Carolina compete in the men’s division.

Title 9, and the way university officials view its implication hinder men’s programs in swimming.

Conference USA has twelve member schools, but only six field women’s teams and a paltry three field men’s teams. The number of women’s team reduces to five for the 2006-2007 season, as Tulane will drop its three year old women’s program.

However, the action will be hot in the pool this year, as SMU looks to be the odds-on favorite to win both the men’s’ and women’s titles.

Go and check out the action. For the price, it is the best deal for collegiate sports in town.

For further information on the championships, go to Conference USA Swimming and Diving Championships website.

No Need For A Zamboni, The Ice Is Still Frosty Cold

By Robert H. Kelly

In an article on the Mercury News website, George Diaz of the Orlando Sentinel, describes the scene at the press conference after the 1500 meter speed skating race in which Shani Davis won the silver medal and Chad Hedrick won the bronze at the Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy.

They both assured everyone that there was nothing between them except competition, but the festering boil that is their conflict is going to pop soon.

Remember Tonya Harding and Nancy Kerrigan? Was it Tonya the thug and Nancy the princess or Tanya the used and Nancy the whiner?

People couldn’t turn on the television without seeing their faces. Think what would have happened if the internet has been involved?

Shani and Hedrick are headed for that same abyss.

Yet another view on the post race interview also came from the Mercury News site, showing a different view of the two.

As I watched the individual interviews that NBC’s Melissa Stark conducted after the race, both Davis and Hedrick were polite, pleasant, and praised each other.

However, when NBC showed the ending moments of the final post race press conference, Davis brought up that he felt it would have been nice if Hedrick had shaken his hand after his victory.

The camera panned to Hedrick, who picked up his bottle of water, stood up, took a drink, and sat down.

At that moment, according to sources, Davis got up and left the conference; mumbling something to a companion about Hedrick.

Hedrick looked in Davis’ direction, shook his head, and also according to sources, stated something such as "That's just like Shani."

I am sorry. Shani has said over and over that he is in it for his performance and couldn’t care less what people think and say.

Now for him to say a congratulatory handshake from Hedrick would have been nice just muddles the matter even more.

Many have stated that Shani is not and does not consider himself a part of the USA team. Having removed himself from the team atmosphere, one would assume that being a part of the team is not important to him.

To state that it would have been nice to get a handshake and congratulations from Hedrick after his race seems out of context.

Does he want to be part of the team or not? Expecting congratulations from a fellow skater means you consider yoursself part of the team.

Whether his decision not to skate in the team pursuit was the straw that broke the camel’s back or was just more fuel for the fire is yet to be determined.

But one think is certain, you can’t have it both ways. Be a loner or be a team player. But you need to pick one and stick with it.

Shani needs to remember what happened to John Kerry with his constant flip-flopping during his presidential race. It didn’t work out to well for Kerry, and it might not work out for Shani.

No matter what anyone things about either of them, they have brought speed skating to the thoughts and mouths of the world.

And that is always good for a story.