2025 TAAF Games of Texas to draw over 8,000 athletes to Bryan-College Station

By Chris Price
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS (July 28, 2025) The 2025 Texas Amateur Athletic Federation (TAAF) Games of Texas, a premier Olympic-style event. The Games will bring more than 8,000 amateur athletes to Bryan and College Station from July 31 to August 3. Marking its eighth appearance in the Brazos Valley, the four-day festival will feature competitions in over a dozen sports, including swimming, track and field, boxing, tennis, esports, and ultimate frisbee, held at local venues such as Texas A&M’s E.B. Cushing Stadium, the Bryan Aquatic Center, and Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater.
In 2019, the Games attracted 20,000 athletes, families, and volunteers, generating an estimated $8.1 million in economic impact, 
To manage the expected influx of visitors, several local facilities will close temporarily, including College Station’s parks, recreation centers, and pools from July 31 to August 3, and the Bryan Aquatic Center from July 28 to August 6. Authorities advise drivers to anticipate traffic delays near competition venues and encourage early arrivals and carpooling, with parking available at each site. The public is invited to attend the opening ceremonies on Friday, August 1, at Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater.

Sport Stacking at the 2025 AAU Junior Olympic Games

Story and photos by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (July 27, 2025) The sport of sport stacking was contested at the 2025 AAU Junior Olympic Games, held in Houston, Texas. The competition was held at the George R Brown Convention Center on July 25-27, 2025.

Sport stacking is all about speed, focus, and coordination. Players race to stack and unstack plastic cups in different patterns as quickly as possible. The sport may look simple, but it takes hours of practice to master.

This year’s event was filled with excitement, as hundreds of stackers from across the U.S. showed off their skills. Events included individual stacking, doubles, relays, and even timed head-to-head battles. Athletes were split by age groups, from tiny beginners to experienced teens.

One of the highlights was seeing stackers break personal records and even challenge national times. The crowd cheered loudly each time a perfect stack was completed under pressure. The sport may be quiet compared to others, but the energy inside the arena was electric.

Families and teammates filled the stands, proudly watching their kids perform. Coaches were also nearby, giving tips and encouragement. For many of these young athletes, this was the biggest stage they had ever competed on.

The final results of all competitions in Houston can be found here.

Messi and Alba skip MLS All-Star Game

By Chris Price
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

AUSTIN, TEXAS (July 23, 2025)  Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba, two top players for Inter Miami, did not show up for the 2025 MLS All-Star Game in Austin, Texas. They were both chosen by fans to play against the best from Mexico’s Liga MX, but they skipped all events including the skills challenge. 

MLS rules say that if a player skips the All-Star Game without being hurt, they must sit out the next league match. That means Messi and Alba could miss Inter Miami’s game against FC Cincinnati this Saturday. MLS is talking with the team and will decide soon if the players will be suspended.

Some fans are upset, saying Messi and Alba should have at least played a little, while others feel the players need a break after recently playing a tough schedule.  A similar situation happened in 2018 with Zlatan Ibrahimović, who was suspended when he skipped the event.  Inter Miami’s coach, Javier Mascherano, said he’d rather they rest than play mid-season.

Houston Dynamo FC set to celebrate H-Town Night against Philadelphia Union

By Chris Price
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (July 18, 2025)  Houston Dynamo FC returns to Shell Energy Stadium on Saturday, July 19, for a cross-conference clash against the Philadelphia Union. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. CT as the club wraps up the second of a three-match homestand.

The match marks a special occasion as the Dynamo celebrate H-Town Night. The night will be packed with local flair, including a halftime performance by Houston rap legend Mike Jones.

Before the match, fans can enjoy a custom car show on the north side of the stadium at HDFC Headquarters and take photos in front of a 713-themed backdrop on the concourse. Local artists involved in the Free Walls project will also be recognized during the match, showcasing the city’s deep connection to art and culture.

On the pitch, Houston will look to build momentum as they face a Union squad that hasn’t visited Shell Energy Stadium since their last meeting in 2018. That match ended in a 3-0 Dynamo victory in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Final, with Mauro Manotas scoring twice and a Philadelphia own goal sealing the result.

The Dynamo close out the homestand next week when they host LA Galaxy on Friday, July 25, for Military Appreciation Night.

Team USA holds off France, Reaches U19 World Cup Semifinals

Photo courtesy of USA Basketball 

By Chris Price
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

BRNO, CZECH REPUBLIC (July 19, 2025) The USA U19 Women’s National Team stayed perfect at the 2025 FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup with a hard-fought 70-65 win over France in the quarterfinals on Friday in Brno, Czech Republic. The victory marks the Americans’ 26th straight win in U19 competition, setting a new tournament record.

France gave the U.S. its toughest test yet. The Americans led just 38-32 at halftime and saw their lead cut to one point in the third quarter. But key plays off the bench by Emilee Skinner and a scoring burst by starters Sienna Betts and helped Team USA push ahead 52-45 going into the fourth quarter.

Hall once again led the way with 26 points, her third 20-point game of the tournament. The strong guard hit big shots early to hold off French momentum and now averages 19.6 points and 3.4 steals per game. Betts also had another big night, earning her fourth straight double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds.

Team defense helped seal the win, as the Americans held France to just 36.4% shooting. No opponent has shot better than 37% against the U.S. in this tournament. The starting five delivered the bulk of the offense, scoring 64 of the team's 70 total points.

With the win, the U.S. improved to 105-13 all-time in U19 play and will face Spain next in the semifinals on Saturday. It’s a rematch of the 2023 gold medal game, which the U.S. won 69-66.

Houston Dynamo shut out 3-0 by Vancouver Whitecaps

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (July 16, 2025)  The Houston Dynamo FC fell 3-0 to Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Wednesday night at Shell Energy Stadium. Despite several promising chances, the Dynamo couldn’t find the back of the net and suffered a tough loss in front of their home crowd.

The match saw a special moment for forward Lawrence Ennali, who made his first home start since returning from a season-ending knee injury last September. The 23-year-old looked sharp and created a few chances, but the Dynamo came up short.

Vancouver opened the scoring early in the 4th minute. Emmanuel Sabbi took advantage of a rebound in the box after Houston goalkeeper Jonathan Bond made an initial diving save. The Whitecaps added a second goal in the 42nd minute when Sebastian Berhalter fired in a long shot off a pass from Brian White.

The final goal came in the 56th minute. After Felipe Andrade was called for a foul inside the box, White stepped up to take the penalty. Bond saved the first shot, but White followed it up and scored on the rebound.

Bond had a busy night in goal, making four saves to keep Houston in the match. He stopped strong shots from Tate Johnson and Daniel Rios early in the first half, including a one-on-one play in the 13th minute.

Houston had chances to score. Ezequiel Ponce headed a cross just wide in the 26th minute. Ennali nearly scored twice in the first half, and Jack McGlynn also forced two diving saves from Vancouver goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka, one in the 67th minute and another in stoppage time.

Despite their efforts, Houston couldn’t close the gap.

The Dynamo will look to bounce back on Saturday, July 19, when they host the Philadelphia Union in another home match at Shell Energy Stadium. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. CT.

MLS All-Stars ready for big match against LIGA MX

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

AUSTIN, TEXAS (July 13, 2025) The 2025 MLS All-Star Game is almost here, and fans are getting excited. This year, 26 of the league’s best players will face off against top stars from Mexico’s LIGA MX. The big game will take place on July 23 at Austin FC’s Q2 Stadium. Kickoff is at 8 p.m. CT, and it will be shown on MLS Season Pass.

The roster was picked in three ways. Twelve players were voted in by fans, media, and players. Another 12 were picked by MLS All-Star coach Nico Estévez. Two final players were selected by MLS Commissioner Don Garber.

Some of the biggest names on the list include Lionel Messi from Inter Miami and Denis Bouanga from LAFC. Messi, who was voted in, is one of the most successful soccer players in the world. Bouanga also had a strong season and brings speed and goal-scoring power.

In goal, Dayne St. Clair from Minnesota United was voted in, while Brad Stuver of Austin FC and Yohei Takaoka of Vancouver were chosen by the coach.

The defense includes top players like Jordi Alba of Inter Miami and Michael Boxall of Minnesota, both voted in. Coach Estévez also picked players like Jakob Glesnes of Philadelphia and Andy Najar of Nashville.

The midfield is filled with talent too. Diego Luna from Real Salt Lake and Evander from FC Cincinnati were voted in. Sebastian Berhalter from Vancouver also made it in by vote. Other picks include Jeppe Tverskov from San Diego FC and David Da Costa from Portland.

The forwards are full of firepower. Along with Messi and Bouanga, voters picked Brian White of Vancouver and Tai Baribo from Philadelphia. Commissioner Don Garber added Patrick Agyemang of Charlotte FC and Chucky Lozano of San Diego FC.

Houston Dynamo fall 1-0 to Real Salt Lake

Photo Credit: Houston Dynamo FC

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

SANDY, UTAH (July 12, 2025)  

Houston Dynamo FC dropped a tight match on the road Saturday night, losing 1-0 to Real Salt Lake at America First Field. Both teams had 17 shots in the game, but a first-half goal from William Agada made the difference.

Dynamo goalkeeper Jonathan Bond made four big saves to keep Houston in the game. In the 7th minute, defender Ethan Bartlow (shown right above) cleared a shot off the goal line, and Bond followed it up with a diving stop seconds later. Bond also made key saves in the 24th, 41st, and late in stoppage time to stop a bicycle kick.

Houston had several chances to tie the game. Felipe Andrade had the team’s first shot on goal in the 18th minute. Jack McGlynn, who just returned from helping the U.S. in the Gold Cup, set up multiple chances, including headers from Ezequiel Ponce and shots from Franco Escobar.

Houston wore black armbands to honor lives lost in recent Texas floods. The club also helped donate $500,000 toward relief efforts, teaming up with MLS and Texas teams.

The Dynamo will now return home to Shell Energy Stadium for two matches next week, facing Vancouver Whitecaps FC on July 16 and the Philadelphia Union on July 19.

Houston Dash dominate Rayadas 4-0 in friendly match

Photo credit: Houston Dash, Used with permission

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (July 8, 2025) The Houston Dash had a big night at Shell Energy Stadium, beating Rayadas de Monterrey 4-0 in an international friendly on Tuesday evening. Four different Dash players scored in the shutout win.

Delanie Sheehan got things started in the 24th minute with a goal off a pass from Sarah Puntigam. Sheehan made space and sent the ball into the back post to put Houston up 1-0.

Defender Avery Patterson made it 2-0 early in the second half, finishing off a low cross from Yazmeen Ryan with a strong left-footed shot. Patterson recently scored her first goal for the U.S. Women’s National Team and continued her great form for the Dash.

In the 73rd minute, Maggie Graham added a third goal, scoring off a rebound after a save by Monterrey’s goalkeeper. The final goal came in the 87th minute from Kiki Van Zanten, who finished a pass from Patterson.

Goalkeepers Jane Campbell and Abby Smith each played a half to help secure the shutout. Defender Allysha Chapman, midfielder Rebeca, and defender Zoe Matthews all made their 2025 season debuts.

The Dash controlled the game with strong chances from Sheehan, Messiah Bright, Ryan Gareis, and Ryan. Monterrey’s best chance was called offside in the second half.

Houston returns to league play on August 2 against Bay FC and will host the North Carolina Courage on August 8.

Mexico defeats U.S. to win 2025 Gold Cup Final

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (July 6, 2025)  Mexico came from behind to defeat the United States 2-1 in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup Final on Sunday evening at NRG Stadium. With the win, Mexico claimed its 10th Gold Cup title, the most in tournament history.

The match started fast, with the U.S. striking early. In just the fourth minute, defender Chris Richards scored with a powerful header off a free kick from Sebastian Berhalter, giving the Americans a 1-0 lead.

Mexico answered back in the 27th minute. Star striker Raúl Jiménez found the back of the net, scoring his third goal of the tournament to tie the game 1-1.

The second half remained tight until the 77th minute. Midfielder Edson Álvarez scored what turned out to be the game-winning goal. His goal was first called offside, but after a video review, the referee confirmed it was good. That gave Mexico the 2-1 lead, and they held on until the final whistle.

This was the eighth time the U.S. and Mexico have met in a Gold Cup final. Mexico now leads the rivalry in finals with six wins to the U.S.’s two.