HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 26, 2011) Tickets for the 2011 Dynamo Charities Cup, which pits the Houston Dynamo against English Premier League club Bolton Wanderers are on sale at HoustonDynamo.com and Ticketmaster.com. The third annual charity match, dubbed as the “TransAtlantic Challenge” this time around, marks the Dynamo’s first-ever game against European opposition. The contest will be taking place on Wednesday, July 20, at Robertson Stadium.
Bolton Wanderers were founded in 1874 and were founding members of the Football League in 1888. Last season, the club reached the semifinals of the prestigious FA Cup in England, a tournament they have won four times in their history. The 2010-11 season marked the 10th consecutive year Bolton have competed in the English Premier League. The Dynamo and Wanderers are connected by Houston resident Stuart Holden, who played for the Dynamo from 2006-09 before joining Bolton early in 2010.
“We’re really excited to host an English Premier League club for the first time and continue to grow the tradition of the Dynamo Charities Cup,” Dynamo president Chris Canetti said. “Our fans share in this excitement, and we expect these tickets to be in high demand.”
The Dynamo Charities Cup is an annual friendly match pitting the Dynamo against an international opponent, with a portion of the match’s proceeds donated to charity. In 2009, Houston beat Mexican club Monterrey 2-1, with proceeds benefitting Dynamo Charities. Last year, the Dynamo beat Aguila from El Salvador 4-0, with proceeds benefitting victims of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Houston Ties DC United 2-2 in MLS Action
WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 25, 2011) The Houston Dynamo twice rallied from a one-goal deficit and used a dramatic 89th-minute goal from captain Brian Ching to pull out a 2-2 road tie against D.C. United on Saturday and take the season series from their Eastern Conference rival. Ching, making just his second start of the season, headed in a cross from Colin Clark as Houston earned its fifth tie in eight road games. Ching had also set up Houston’s first goal by drawing a penalty kick.
The Dynamo are now unbeaten in their last five games (4-0-1) against D.C. United and lead the all-time series 9-3-2. Houston won the season series with a 1-0-1 record thanks to a 4-1 win over D.C. on April 29.
D.C. United took the lead in the 31st minute, when Josh Wolff teed up Chris Pontius for a shot from outside the penalty area, and Pontius drove a right-footed shot inside the left post for his fifth goal of the season.
The Dynamo tied the game shortly before halftime when Je-Vaughn Watson set up Brian Ching in the penalty area, and Ching was tripped up by D.C. United goalkeeper Bill Hamid. Brad Davis stepped up to the resulting penalty kick and drove it into the lower right corner for his second goal of the season, both from the spot.
The teams traded chances late in the first half, with Houston rookie Kofi Sarkodie clearing a shot off the goal line, before the Dynamo took over early in the second half. D.C. United goalkeeper Bill Hamid had to make four saves in the first 25 minutes of the second half, including tipping a Danny Cruz shot against the crossbar. Cruz also came close to giving Houston the lead when he hit the outside of the post from a Colin Clark cross in the 64th minute.
Against the run of play, D.C. United took the lead in the 73rd minute. Midfielder Andy Najar dribbled the end line into the six-yard box, and when the Dynamo knocked the ball away from him, it deflected right to D.C. forward Charlie Davies, who snapped the ball into the empty net for his eighth goal of the season, tied for the league lead.
Having used substitutions on injury (Brad Davis) and illness (Corey Ashe), the Dynamo went to three forwards over the final 12 minutes with the introduction of Cam Weaver, and the team’s pressure finally paid off in the 89th minute. Brian Ching held the ball up in his own half of the field and fed it to Geoff Cameron streaking through the midfield. Cameron raced into the attacking half and passed to Colin Clark on the left, and Clark chipped a cross to the penalty spot, where Ching arrived to head it into the net with the help of a deflection to tie the game.
The tying goal was the third time this season the Dynamo have tied the game in the final 15 minutes (April 23 at Chicago, May 28 vs. FC Dallas) and, combined with the goal late in the first half, gives Houston a league-high 13 goals in the final 15 minutes of either the first or second half.
Forward Brian Ching made just his second start of the season due to injury and his first since the Dynamo’s April 2 match against the New York Red Bulls. His 90 minutes were a season high, and he factored in both Houston goals.
The Dynamo made five changes from last week’s lineup, including the third MLS appearances of the season for defenders Kofi Sarkodie and Jermaine Taylor and the fourth start of the year for midfielder Je-Vaughn Watson. Taylor and Watson played their first games after returning from national team duty with Jamaica.
For their Dynamo careers in all competitions, several players made milestone appearances, including: midfielder Brad Davis (180th appearance), defender Corey Ashe (150th appearance), midfielder Geoff Cameron (110th appearance), defender Andre Hainault (75th appearance), and forward Cam Weaver (50th appearance).
The Dynamo played without forward Calen Carr (concussion); midfielder Lovel Palmer (red card); and defender Eddie Robinson (MCL sprain).
The Dynamo are now unbeaten in their last five games (4-0-1) against D.C. United and lead the all-time series 9-3-2. Houston won the season series with a 1-0-1 record thanks to a 4-1 win over D.C. on April 29.
D.C. United took the lead in the 31st minute, when Josh Wolff teed up Chris Pontius for a shot from outside the penalty area, and Pontius drove a right-footed shot inside the left post for his fifth goal of the season.
The Dynamo tied the game shortly before halftime when Je-Vaughn Watson set up Brian Ching in the penalty area, and Ching was tripped up by D.C. United goalkeeper Bill Hamid. Brad Davis stepped up to the resulting penalty kick and drove it into the lower right corner for his second goal of the season, both from the spot.
The teams traded chances late in the first half, with Houston rookie Kofi Sarkodie clearing a shot off the goal line, before the Dynamo took over early in the second half. D.C. United goalkeeper Bill Hamid had to make four saves in the first 25 minutes of the second half, including tipping a Danny Cruz shot against the crossbar. Cruz also came close to giving Houston the lead when he hit the outside of the post from a Colin Clark cross in the 64th minute.
Against the run of play, D.C. United took the lead in the 73rd minute. Midfielder Andy Najar dribbled the end line into the six-yard box, and when the Dynamo knocked the ball away from him, it deflected right to D.C. forward Charlie Davies, who snapped the ball into the empty net for his eighth goal of the season, tied for the league lead.
Having used substitutions on injury (Brad Davis) and illness (Corey Ashe), the Dynamo went to three forwards over the final 12 minutes with the introduction of Cam Weaver, and the team’s pressure finally paid off in the 89th minute. Brian Ching held the ball up in his own half of the field and fed it to Geoff Cameron streaking through the midfield. Cameron raced into the attacking half and passed to Colin Clark on the left, and Clark chipped a cross to the penalty spot, where Ching arrived to head it into the net with the help of a deflection to tie the game.
The tying goal was the third time this season the Dynamo have tied the game in the final 15 minutes (April 23 at Chicago, May 28 vs. FC Dallas) and, combined with the goal late in the first half, gives Houston a league-high 13 goals in the final 15 minutes of either the first or second half.
Forward Brian Ching made just his second start of the season due to injury and his first since the Dynamo’s April 2 match against the New York Red Bulls. His 90 minutes were a season high, and he factored in both Houston goals.
The Dynamo made five changes from last week’s lineup, including the third MLS appearances of the season for defenders Kofi Sarkodie and Jermaine Taylor and the fourth start of the year for midfielder Je-Vaughn Watson. Taylor and Watson played their first games after returning from national team duty with Jamaica.
For their Dynamo careers in all competitions, several players made milestone appearances, including: midfielder Brad Davis (180th appearance), defender Corey Ashe (150th appearance), midfielder Geoff Cameron (110th appearance), defender Andre Hainault (75th appearance), and forward Cam Weaver (50th appearance).
The Dynamo played without forward Calen Carr (concussion); midfielder Lovel Palmer (red card); and defender Eddie Robinson (MCL sprain).
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
USA Downs Panama 1-0 in Gold Cup 2011 Semi-Final Action; Advance to Final at the Rose Bowl on Saturday
Clint Dempsey and Landon Donovan embrace after the goal that gave the USA a 1-0 victory over Panama. Photo by Darla Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography, Copyright 2011, All Rights Reserved.By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2011 TexSport Publications
HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 22, 2011) After an uninspiring 75 minutes of play at Reliant Stadium, the USA scored in the 76 minute to give the USA a 1-0 win over Panama in the first semi-final game of CONCACAF Gold Cup 2011.
The USA’s Clint Dempsey was advancing on the goal when Landon Donovan fed him a pass from the right side.
He shot from inside the box; drilling the ball past Panama goalkeeper Jamie Penedo for the score
Most of the game was relatively uninspiring, with the USA five shots on goal and Panama attempting eight.
Fouls were abundant during the game with the whistle sounding 21 times against the United States.
Panama was cited 10 times for fouls.
The best action up to the start of the second half was a half naked fan running across the playing field of Reliant Stadium, waving his shirt to the soccer aficionados before security removed him.
He was handed over to Houston police and headed for a suspected night in jail.
It was a good thing the half of him that was naked was his upper torso; as it may have made a rough night in the lockup if he had been naked below the waist.
The offense of both teams looks sluggish and it appears the USA is trying to come back from their earlier loss to Panama 2-1 in Group C action.
Both teams seemed uninspired with lackluster play and locus seeming to be lacking.
It was obvious, at least to any person who is remotely knowledgeable about soccer that one or possibly both teams were wishing the game would be over.
A small scuffle occurred in extra time, when USA's Jermaine Jones took a foot to the face; delivered by Panama's Luis Renteria.
Several USA players jumped to Jones' defense and care, which prompted a small shoving match between various USA players and Renteria.
The officials quickly intervened and no cards were issued.
The USA now advances to the finals to play the winner of the Mexico-Honduras.
The "Half Naked" fan is apprehended by Reliant Stadium security before being handed over to Houston Police. Photo by Darla Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography, Copyright 2011, All Rights Reserved.If the Red, White, and Blue hope to win the championship of Gold Cup 2011, they had better play with more intensity and focus that they did against Panama.
If not, they will earn their second loss in Gold Cup 2011 play in two weeks.
That would not bode well for the players and coaches alike.
Former Houston Cougars Wallace, Kelso And Goodnight To Play In Minor League All-Star Games
Wallace Will Participate In Home Run Derby Prior To Game
HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 22, 2011) Former University of Houston catcher Chris Wallace and shortstop Blake Kelso will play in the South Atlantic League All-Star Game at 7:30 p.m. April 21 at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury, Md.
In addition to playing in the All-Star game, Wallace is one of 10 players that will compete in the 2011 BB&T Home Run Derby.
Wallace, who plays for the Lexington Legends, will play for the South Division, while Kelso, of the Hagerstown Suns, willrepresent the North Division. Players are chosen through voting by managers, coaches, front office executives, media and fans.
Wallace ranks second in the league standings with 14 home runs and fourth with 49 RBIs. He opened the season with a 12-game hitting streak and went on to be named the SAL Player of the Week. He also hit three home runs with nine RBIs against Asheville on April 17.
This is the second All-Star game for Wallace since he was drafted by the Houston Astros in the 16th round of the 2010 MLB Draft. Last season, he played in the Appalachian League All-Star game with the Greenville Astros.
Wallace spent four seasons behind the plate for Houston posting a career .291 batting average. He was selected to the All-Conference USA Second Team in 2009 and led the Cougars with 10 home runs as a senior.
Kelso will start at third base in the All-Star game and ranks fifth in the league with a .404 batting average. He also has 12 doubles, one triple and two home runs.
After being drafted by the Washington Nationals in the 10th round of the 2010 MLB Draft, Kelso began his professional career with the Vermont Lake Monsters of the New York-Penn League where he was named a mid-season All-Star.
Kelso was a staple in the Cougar infield,making 181 consecutive starts at shortstop. He finished his three-year career at UH with a .319 batting average, 41 doubles, 11 triples and eight home runs. He is also the school record holder with 588 assists.
MIDWEST LEAGUE ALL-STAR GAME
In addition to Wallace and Kelso playing in the SAL All-Star Game, former pitcher Michael Goodnight will play for the Eastern Division in the Midwest League All-Star game Tuesday. The game willstart at 6 p.m. at the Quad Cities’ Modern Woodmen Park.
Goodnight leads the Lake County Captains with a 5-5 record and a 3.04 ERA. He has pitched a team high 71 innings, allowing 24 earned runs on 49 hits with 65 strikeouts. He was drafted by the Cleveland Indians in the 13th round of the 2010 MLB Draft.
A two-year letterwinner for the Cougars, Goodnight made 16 starts as a sophomore posting a 4.96 ERA with 148 strikeouts. He was named to the C-USA All-Freshman Team in 2009.
HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 22, 2011) Former University of Houston catcher Chris Wallace and shortstop Blake Kelso will play in the South Atlantic League All-Star Game at 7:30 p.m. April 21 at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury, Md.
In addition to playing in the All-Star game, Wallace is one of 10 players that will compete in the 2011 BB&T Home Run Derby.
Wallace, who plays for the Lexington Legends, will play for the South Division, while Kelso, of the Hagerstown Suns, willrepresent the North Division. Players are chosen through voting by managers, coaches, front office executives, media and fans.
Wallace ranks second in the league standings with 14 home runs and fourth with 49 RBIs. He opened the season with a 12-game hitting streak and went on to be named the SAL Player of the Week. He also hit three home runs with nine RBIs against Asheville on April 17.
This is the second All-Star game for Wallace since he was drafted by the Houston Astros in the 16th round of the 2010 MLB Draft. Last season, he played in the Appalachian League All-Star game with the Greenville Astros.
Wallace spent four seasons behind the plate for Houston posting a career .291 batting average. He was selected to the All-Conference USA Second Team in 2009 and led the Cougars with 10 home runs as a senior.
Kelso will start at third base in the All-Star game and ranks fifth in the league with a .404 batting average. He also has 12 doubles, one triple and two home runs.
After being drafted by the Washington Nationals in the 10th round of the 2010 MLB Draft, Kelso began his professional career with the Vermont Lake Monsters of the New York-Penn League where he was named a mid-season All-Star.
Kelso was a staple in the Cougar infield,making 181 consecutive starts at shortstop. He finished his three-year career at UH with a .319 batting average, 41 doubles, 11 triples and eight home runs. He is also the school record holder with 588 assists.
MIDWEST LEAGUE ALL-STAR GAME
In addition to Wallace and Kelso playing in the SAL All-Star Game, former pitcher Michael Goodnight will play for the Eastern Division in the Midwest League All-Star game Tuesday. The game willstart at 6 p.m. at the Quad Cities’ Modern Woodmen Park.
Goodnight leads the Lake County Captains with a 5-5 record and a 3.04 ERA. He has pitched a team high 71 innings, allowing 24 earned runs on 49 hits with 65 strikeouts. He was drafted by the Cleveland Indians in the 13th round of the 2010 MLB Draft.
A two-year letterwinner for the Cougars, Goodnight made 16 starts as a sophomore posting a 4.96 ERA with 148 strikeouts. He was named to the C-USA All-Freshman Team in 2009.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Schwarz Named Southland Softball Student-Athlete of the Year
Islanders’ junior outfielder chosen to first-team on league’s all-academic team
FRISCO, TEXAS (June 21, 2011) Texas A&M-Corpus Christi junior Hannah Schwarz has been named the Southland Conference Softball Student-Athlete of the Year, the league office announced Tuesday in conjunction with the release of the All-Academic Softball Teams.
Schwarz, a native of Kerrville, Texas, carries a 4.00 grade-point average in interdisciplinary studies and is the first softball student-athlete of the year from A&M-Corpus Christi in school history. Schwarz capped off her junior year by being named first-team Academic All-Region VI and was named third-team Academic All-America by CoSIDA. For the second consecutive year she was a first-team All-Southland and all-region pick after batting .345 while starting 58 of her 59 games. She scored a league-high 40 runs while collecting the second-most hits in the conference with 67. She tallied 14 RBI on the season, drew 12 walks and stole nine bases while collecting seven sacrifice hits.
In addition to her athletic achievements, Schwarz was named the Steve McCarty Citizenship Award winner by the Southland Conference and earned A&M–Corpus Christi’s Lee Denmon Award that is given to the athlete for service to the community.
Nine student-athletes make a return appearance to the all-academic teams, including McNeese State senior Lindsey Langner, Southeastern Louisiana graduate Katie Duhe and Texas State senior Jenna Emery, who are making their third consecutive showing.
Nine members received automatic selections by virtue of being either a first-team all-conference selection or voted to the CoSIDA academic all-district team.
Seven student-athletes were selected to the CoSIDA Academic All-District VI Team. Duhe, Central Arkansas junior Katie McGregor and Schwarz received first-team merits while Central Arkansas sophomore Melanie Bryant, Northwestern State junior Kelee Grimes and A&M-Corpus Christi seniors Lauren Dodson and Caley Jeter were selected to the second-team. UT Arlington senior Rebecca Collom was named first-team all-conference, rounding out the nine automatic selections.
Texas State led all league teams with one first and three second-team all-academic selections for four members overall. Central Arkansas, McNeese State, Southeastern Louisiana and A&M-Corpus Christi had three while Northwestern State, Sam Houston State and UT Arlington had two. Nicholls and Stephen F. Austin had one each.
Established in the 2002-03 academic year, the conference honors one student-athlete from each of the 17 championship sports who achieves excellence in academics, athletics and community/campus service.
The student-athlete of the year, selected by the league’s awards committee, will have attained athletics achievement for at least two years at the nominating institution, possess at least a 3.20 cumulative GPA and demonstrated extracurricular service at her campus and or community.
The all-academic teams are voted on by the head coaches, sports information directors and academic/compliance administrators from each Southland university. Student-athletes must possess a 3.0 cumulative GPA, have completed one full academic year at the nominating institution and participated in at least 50 percent of the team’s competition to qualify for the all-academic squad.
FRISCO, TEXAS (June 21, 2011) Texas A&M-Corpus Christi junior Hannah Schwarz has been named the Southland Conference Softball Student-Athlete of the Year, the league office announced Tuesday in conjunction with the release of the All-Academic Softball Teams.
Schwarz, a native of Kerrville, Texas, carries a 4.00 grade-point average in interdisciplinary studies and is the first softball student-athlete of the year from A&M-Corpus Christi in school history. Schwarz capped off her junior year by being named first-team Academic All-Region VI and was named third-team Academic All-America by CoSIDA. For the second consecutive year she was a first-team All-Southland and all-region pick after batting .345 while starting 58 of her 59 games. She scored a league-high 40 runs while collecting the second-most hits in the conference with 67. She tallied 14 RBI on the season, drew 12 walks and stole nine bases while collecting seven sacrifice hits.
In addition to her athletic achievements, Schwarz was named the Steve McCarty Citizenship Award winner by the Southland Conference and earned A&M–Corpus Christi’s Lee Denmon Award that is given to the athlete for service to the community.
Nine student-athletes make a return appearance to the all-academic teams, including McNeese State senior Lindsey Langner, Southeastern Louisiana graduate Katie Duhe and Texas State senior Jenna Emery, who are making their third consecutive showing.
Nine members received automatic selections by virtue of being either a first-team all-conference selection or voted to the CoSIDA academic all-district team.
Seven student-athletes were selected to the CoSIDA Academic All-District VI Team. Duhe, Central Arkansas junior Katie McGregor and Schwarz received first-team merits while Central Arkansas sophomore Melanie Bryant, Northwestern State junior Kelee Grimes and A&M-Corpus Christi seniors Lauren Dodson and Caley Jeter were selected to the second-team. UT Arlington senior Rebecca Collom was named first-team all-conference, rounding out the nine automatic selections.
Texas State led all league teams with one first and three second-team all-academic selections for four members overall. Central Arkansas, McNeese State, Southeastern Louisiana and A&M-Corpus Christi had three while Northwestern State, Sam Houston State and UT Arlington had two. Nicholls and Stephen F. Austin had one each.
Established in the 2002-03 academic year, the conference honors one student-athlete from each of the 17 championship sports who achieves excellence in academics, athletics and community/campus service.
The student-athlete of the year, selected by the league’s awards committee, will have attained athletics achievement for at least two years at the nominating institution, possess at least a 3.20 cumulative GPA and demonstrated extracurricular service at her campus and or community.
The all-academic teams are voted on by the head coaches, sports information directors and academic/compliance administrators from each Southland university. Student-athletes must possess a 3.0 cumulative GPA, have completed one full academic year at the nominating institution and participated in at least 50 percent of the team’s competition to qualify for the all-academic squad.
RELIANT STADIUM SOLD OUT FOR CONCACAF GOLD CUP SEMIFINALS ON JUNE 22
FANS URGED TO ARRIVE EARLY AND ENJOY FAN FESTIVALSHOUSTON, TEXAS (June 21, 2011) The semifinal doubleheader for the 2011 Gold Cup at Reliant Stadium is a complete sellout, organizers announced today. It marks the seventh sellout of the tournament, with previous full houses at Cowboys Stadium, Soldier Field, Red Bull Arena and LIVESTRONG Sporting Park, New Meadowlands Stadium and RFK Stadium.
Tickets will not be available at the stadium box office on game day. Those without tickets should not approach the stadium area on game day to avoid unnecessary delays, as tickets will not be on sale.
The matches will be televised live in English on FOX Soccer and in Spanish on the Univision family of networks. They will also be broadcast locally on radio in English on Sports 790 AM and in Spanish by Fútbol de Primera on La Ranchera 850 AM.
Fans attending the doubleheader between the United States and Panama, and Mexico vs. Honduras, are urged to arrive at the stadium early to avoid traffic and long lines, and enjoy Futbol Fiesta, a 120,000 sq. ft. interactive fan area featuring live entertainment, sponsor booths and giveaways. Futbol Fiesta will open at 3:00 p.m. CDT in the Blue Lot on the south end of the stadium.
Fans are encouraged to use public transportation such as the METRORail line, which stops along Fannin St. near the Reliant Astrodome. Stadium parking lots will open at 2:00 p.m. CDT. All parking is cash-only, and all non-premium lots are $20 per vehicle.
Tickets for the grand final of the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup on June 25 in Pasadena are still available by visiting www.goldcup.org. The Rose Bowl ticket office will be open daily Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. local. The 2011 Gold Cup champion and CONCACAF representative to the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil will be crowned on Saturday, June 25 at the historic Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Ariana Kukors Wins Gold as Santa Clara International Grand Prix Concludes
Missy Franklin is the 2010-2011 USA Swimming Grand Prix Series Champion
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA (June 20, 2011) Ariana Kukors (Auburn, Wash.) turned in the world’s fastest time of the year in the 200m IM on the final day of competition at the 2011 Santa Clara International Grand Prix. Michael Phelps (Baltimore, Md.) picked up his fourth medal of the meet Sunday night while Missy Franklin (Centennial, Colo.) was named the champion of the 2010-2011 USA Swimming Grand Prix Series.
In addition to Franklin’s win as the Grand Prix Series Champion, she also took home the meet’s high-point award for female swimmers in Santa Clara. Ryan Lochte (Daytona Beach, Fla.) was named the high-point award winner on the men’s side. Franklin will be presented with the Grand Prix Series trophy at USA Swimming ConocoPhillips National Championship which will take place August 2-6 in Palo Alto, Calif. As a high school student with collegiate eligibility, Franklin is unable to receive the Grand Prix Series prize money.
In the 200m IM, Kukors broke her own meet record set in 2009 by swimming a 2:09.53. Her time was also the fastest time in the 200m IM this year. Stephanie Rice from Australia took the silver medal by swimming a 2:11.39 and Caitlin Leverenz (Tucson, Ariz.) won the bronze with a 2:13.24.
Kathleen Hersey (Atlanta, Ga.) set a meet record in the first event of the night, the women’s 200m fly. Her time of 2:06.89 was nearly a second faster than the old record set by Mary Descenza in 2008. Stephanie Rice from Australia had the second fastest time at 2:07.54 and 2008 Olympian Elaine Breeden (Lexington, Ky.) placed third with a 2:08.14.
Phelps and Nicholas D’Arcy from Australia were neck-and-neck in the men’s 200m butterfly but in the end, D’Arcy touched the wall first by one-one hundredth of a second in 1:55.39. Phelps finished in 1:55.40 and Robert Bollier (Mission Hills, Kan.) came in third at 1:57.92.
In the women’s 100m breaststroke, Jessica Hardy (Long Beach, Calif.) took home the gold medal with a 1:07.45. Ashley Wanland (Long Grove, Ill.) beat out Amanda Beard (Irvine, Calif.) for second place with a time of 1:09.25. Beard finished in 1:09.46. During morning prelims Sunday, Rebecca Soni (Plainsboro, N.J.) swam the fastest time of the day, setting a meet record with a time of 1:05.83. Soni opted to not swim in Sunday’s finals.
In the women’s 100m back, Australia’s Emily Seebohm swam the fifth fastest time in the world this year with a 59.77. Franklin finished second to Seebohm in 59.98 while fellow Australian Meagen Nay swam a 1:00.96 for third.
Daniel Bell from New Zealand had a strong showing in the men’s 100m backstroke. His time of 54.70 beat Lochte’s 55.22 and Eugene Godsoe’s (Greensboro, N.C) 55.63. Lochte and Godsoe finished second and third, respectively.
Thiago Pereira from Brazil broke the third meet record of the night with a time of 1:57.63. The victory was Pereira’s second of the four-day meet. Lochte came into the wall next at 1:58.99 and Conor Dwyer (Winnetka, Ill.) finished third at 2:01.88.
In the women’s 800m free, Wendy Trott of South Africa finished first with a time of 8:32.27. Camryne Morris (Baltimore, Md.) was second in 8:35.14. Alexa Komarnycky of Canada finished third in 8:35.27. The men’s 1500m free was won by Michael McBroom in 15:23.43. Jackson Wilcox (Hixson, Tenn.) finished second in 15:32.11 and Mark Randall was third in 15:33.07.
The Santa Clara International Grand Prix was the seventh and final stop of the 2010-2011 USA Swimming Grand Prix Series.
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA (June 20, 2011) Ariana Kukors (Auburn, Wash.) turned in the world’s fastest time of the year in the 200m IM on the final day of competition at the 2011 Santa Clara International Grand Prix. Michael Phelps (Baltimore, Md.) picked up his fourth medal of the meet Sunday night while Missy Franklin (Centennial, Colo.) was named the champion of the 2010-2011 USA Swimming Grand Prix Series.
In addition to Franklin’s win as the Grand Prix Series Champion, she also took home the meet’s high-point award for female swimmers in Santa Clara. Ryan Lochte (Daytona Beach, Fla.) was named the high-point award winner on the men’s side. Franklin will be presented with the Grand Prix Series trophy at USA Swimming ConocoPhillips National Championship which will take place August 2-6 in Palo Alto, Calif. As a high school student with collegiate eligibility, Franklin is unable to receive the Grand Prix Series prize money.
In the 200m IM, Kukors broke her own meet record set in 2009 by swimming a 2:09.53. Her time was also the fastest time in the 200m IM this year. Stephanie Rice from Australia took the silver medal by swimming a 2:11.39 and Caitlin Leverenz (Tucson, Ariz.) won the bronze with a 2:13.24.
Kathleen Hersey (Atlanta, Ga.) set a meet record in the first event of the night, the women’s 200m fly. Her time of 2:06.89 was nearly a second faster than the old record set by Mary Descenza in 2008. Stephanie Rice from Australia had the second fastest time at 2:07.54 and 2008 Olympian Elaine Breeden (Lexington, Ky.) placed third with a 2:08.14.
Phelps and Nicholas D’Arcy from Australia were neck-and-neck in the men’s 200m butterfly but in the end, D’Arcy touched the wall first by one-one hundredth of a second in 1:55.39. Phelps finished in 1:55.40 and Robert Bollier (Mission Hills, Kan.) came in third at 1:57.92.
In the women’s 100m breaststroke, Jessica Hardy (Long Beach, Calif.) took home the gold medal with a 1:07.45. Ashley Wanland (Long Grove, Ill.) beat out Amanda Beard (Irvine, Calif.) for second place with a time of 1:09.25. Beard finished in 1:09.46. During morning prelims Sunday, Rebecca Soni (Plainsboro, N.J.) swam the fastest time of the day, setting a meet record with a time of 1:05.83. Soni opted to not swim in Sunday’s finals.
In the women’s 100m back, Australia’s Emily Seebohm swam the fifth fastest time in the world this year with a 59.77. Franklin finished second to Seebohm in 59.98 while fellow Australian Meagen Nay swam a 1:00.96 for third.
Daniel Bell from New Zealand had a strong showing in the men’s 100m backstroke. His time of 54.70 beat Lochte’s 55.22 and Eugene Godsoe’s (Greensboro, N.C) 55.63. Lochte and Godsoe finished second and third, respectively.
Thiago Pereira from Brazil broke the third meet record of the night with a time of 1:57.63. The victory was Pereira’s second of the four-day meet. Lochte came into the wall next at 1:58.99 and Conor Dwyer (Winnetka, Ill.) finished third at 2:01.88.
In the women’s 800m free, Wendy Trott of South Africa finished first with a time of 8:32.27. Camryne Morris (Baltimore, Md.) was second in 8:35.14. Alexa Komarnycky of Canada finished third in 8:35.27. The men’s 1500m free was won by Michael McBroom in 15:23.43. Jackson Wilcox (Hixson, Tenn.) finished second in 15:32.11 and Mark Randall was third in 15:33.07.
The Santa Clara International Grand Prix was the seventh and final stop of the 2010-2011 USA Swimming Grand Prix Series.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Dynamo Fall to Columbus 2-0, The Skid Continues
(Photo by Darla Tamulitis-La Vita Loco Photography, Copyright 2011, All Rights Reserved)By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2011 TexSport Publications
HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 18, 2011)Coming off a successful trip to the west coast by defeating Chivas USA 2-1 on June 12, the Houston Dynamo were looking to begin a winning streak as they faced the Columbus Crew in a Saturday evening MLS game before 13,039 fans at Houston’s Robertson Stadium.
The Crew’s Bernado Anor saw to it that the Dynamo got their sixth loss of the season, falling to a 4-6-6 record.
Anor, in his first professional start, scored a goal and added an assist to give the Crew a 2-0 win and raise their record to of 5-4-6.
With the win, the Crew takes sole possession of third place in the Eastern Division while the Dynamo falls to fourth place.
The Crew got on the scoreboard in the 41st minute when forward Andres Mendoza got a pass from Anor at the top of the penalty area and kicked it in for the score and his fifth goal of the season.
The assist was Anor’s first of the season.
The Crew came back with their second score of the night, in the 77th minute, when
Anor got the ball from forward Justin Meram at the right side of the end line, firing the ball at the goal, which was deflected by Dynamo goalkeeper Tally Hall.
Anor got the rebound and fired it back for the score and his first professional goal.
The Dynamo had a few bright moments but failed to connect with the goal on 12 tries.
Midfielder Brad Davis made his 200th start of his MLS career while forward Brian Ching played in his 150th career game for the Dynamo.
The Dynamo had to play most of the second half with 10 players when midfielder Lovel
Palmer received his second yellow card of the game and was ejected in 52nd minute.
The Dynamo will next face D.C United (4-5-5, 17 pts) on the road on June 26. They are currently in fifth place in the Eastern Division after their 1-1 tie with Real Salt Lake on Saturday night.
Copyright 2011 TexSport Publications
HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 18, 2011)Coming off a successful trip to the west coast by defeating Chivas USA 2-1 on June 12, the Houston Dynamo were looking to begin a winning streak as they faced the Columbus Crew in a Saturday evening MLS game before 13,039 fans at Houston’s Robertson Stadium.
The Crew’s Bernado Anor saw to it that the Dynamo got their sixth loss of the season, falling to a 4-6-6 record.
Anor, in his first professional start, scored a goal and added an assist to give the Crew a 2-0 win and raise their record to of 5-4-6.
With the win, the Crew takes sole possession of third place in the Eastern Division while the Dynamo falls to fourth place.
The Crew got on the scoreboard in the 41st minute when forward Andres Mendoza got a pass from Anor at the top of the penalty area and kicked it in for the score and his fifth goal of the season.
The assist was Anor’s first of the season.
The Crew came back with their second score of the night, in the 77th minute, when
Anor got the ball from forward Justin Meram at the right side of the end line, firing the ball at the goal, which was deflected by Dynamo goalkeeper Tally Hall.
Anor got the rebound and fired it back for the score and his first professional goal.
The Dynamo had a few bright moments but failed to connect with the goal on 12 tries.
Midfielder Brad Davis made his 200th start of his MLS career while forward Brian Ching played in his 150th career game for the Dynamo.
The Dynamo had to play most of the second half with 10 players when midfielder Lovel
Palmer received his second yellow card of the game and was ejected in 52nd minute.
The Dynamo will next face D.C United (4-5-5, 17 pts) on the road on June 26. They are currently in fifth place in the Eastern Division after their 1-1 tie with Real Salt Lake on Saturday night.
Sunday, June 05, 2011
College Football 2011: A Year Away-12 Teams Using 2011 To Springboard To 2012
By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2011 TexSport Publications
PASADENA, TEXAS (June 5, 2011) With the college football season three months away, some teams will be trying to recover from a unsuccessful 2010 season and are hoping that 2011 will being them more glory on the gridiron.
However, a few others will need a bit longer to get back into the mix and rise to the levels that they once achieved.
The following are 12 teams that will use the 2011 season to get ready for the 2012 season.
So without further ado, here is my list of "12 teams using 2011 to springboard into 2012."
Copyright 2011 TexSport Publications
PASADENA, TEXAS (June 5, 2011) With the college football season three months away, some teams will be trying to recover from a unsuccessful 2010 season and are hoping that 2011 will being them more glory on the gridiron.
However, a few others will need a bit longer to get back into the mix and rise to the levels that they once achieved.
The following are 12 teams that will use the 2011 season to get ready for the 2012 season.
So without further ado, here is my list of "12 teams using 2011 to springboard into 2012."
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Honduras and El Salvador Battle to 2-2 Tie in Pre-Gold Cup Friendly
(Honduras' Edder Delgado (23) and Carlo Costly (13) "prepare" for a shot by El Salvador's Dennis Alas (14). Photo by Darla Tamulitis-La Vita Loco Photography, Copyright 2011, All Rights Reserved)By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2011 TexSport Publications
HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 29, 2011) On two late goals by forwards Rodolfo Zelaya and Rudis Corrales, El Salvador tied Honduras 2-2 in a pre-Gold Cup friendly soccer match at the University of Houston’s Robertson Stadium.
Honduras led 2-0 going into the final minutes of the game, when Zelaya fired a shot pass Honduran goalkeeper Noel Valladares to cut “Los Catrachos” lead to one.
“Cuscatlecos” got another score a scant three minutes later when Corrales got the ball and chipped it past Valladares.
Before that, the match was basically all Honduras.
They got their first goal right in the 45th minute, when forward Carlo Costly found himself right in front of an unprotected goal and nudged it in for the first score of the game.
They came back six minutes into the second half on a shot by forward Jerry Bengtson.
In the first half, El Salvador managed only seven shots, with a single attempt being on the goal. Honduras on the other hand, had three shots on goal with 13 attempts.
During halftime, Salvadorian manager Ruben Israel must have lit a fire under his players, as the countered in the second half with two addition shots on goal on seven more shots.
They finished the match with two goals, three shots on goal, and 13 total shots.
Honduras finished with two goals, four shots on goal, and 17 total shots.
The game was relatively free of any hostility between the two teams; with only two cautions issued.
Honduras’ Johnny Leveron received a yellow card in the 4th minute, while El Salvador’s Luis Anaya received his in the 23rd minute.
El Salvador will kick off the 2011 Gold Cup against Mexico on June 5 at Cowboy Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
They are in Group A and will also face Cuba and Costa Rico.
Honduras will start the Gold Cup against Guatemala on June 5 at The Home Depot Center in Carson, California.
They will also face Grenada and Jamaica in Group B action.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Houston Dynamo and FC Dallas Battle to 2-2 Tie in Game One of Texas Derby
(Dynamo players Andre Hainault-31 and Geoff Cameron-20 help goalkeeper Tally Hall-1 defend the goal during an offensive onslaught by FC Dallas. Photo by Darla Tamulitis-La Vita Loco Photography, Copyright 2011, All Rights Reserved)By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2011 TexSport Publications
HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 28, 2011) On an 87th minute goal by substitute Colin Clark, the Houston Dynamo (3-4-6, 15 pts) tied FC Dallas (6-3-4, 22 pts) 2-2 in Game one of the Texas Derby before 16, 709 soccer fans at Houston’s Robertson Stadium.
Game two and possession of El Capitán will be played at Pizza Hut Park in Frisco on September 24.
FC Dallas struck first on an unassisted header goal by midfielder Andrew Jacobson in the 27th minute.
Forward Fabian Castillo fired a shot off the cross bar which found Jacobson in position to hard the ball into the empty net to make the score 1-0.
Five minutes later, Dynamo defender Jermaine Taylor got into the box, crossed over to Cam Weaver who hits the ball Will Bruin.
Bruin than chests the ball back to Weaver but he could not get a shot off.
The Dynamo quickly rebounded and after some spirited play, found the goal in the 42nd minute to tie the score.
Dynamo captain Brad Davis kicked a cute chip to Weaver who volleyed the ball into the net from 8 yards out.
Davis was credited with an assist, his seventh of the season.
Dallas got the lead back in the 70th minute as Ugo Ihamalu headed home a Marvin Chavez corner kick to up the score to 2-1.
Things fell apart for the Dynamo in the 72nd minute when Kofi Sarkodie picked up his second yellow. He was previously issued a yellow card in the 57th minute.
He headed for that locker room, leaving the Dynamo with only ten players on the field.
Things seemed bleak for the Dynamo until the 87th minute when Davis got possession of the ball and played it forcefully to Colin Clark.
Clark quickly fired the ball past Dallas goalkeeper Kevin Hartman to tie the score at 2-all.
Houston will next face the San Jose Earthquakes on June 4 on the road while FC Dallas will face the New England Revolution at home on the same day.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
ITALIAN BEAUTY IN MOTION – ITALIAN LUXURY CARS AND MOTORBIKES FEATURED AT ITALIAN EXPO 2011 IN JUNE
HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 22, 2011) Eat, drink, and peruse hot Italian sports cars and motorbikes all under one roof! Come to Italian Expo, being held on June 3-5 at George R. Brown Convention Center, and see your favorite Italian automobiles and motorcycles! Italian motor vehicles are among the most exciting vehicles in the world and they offer a driving experience unlike any other.
The long-anticipated return of FIAT to the U. S. market is here and the new release, Fiat 500, will be on display at Italian Expo. Not only can Expo guests see the Fiat 500 (“Cinquecento” in Italian), but they also have a chance to take one out for a spin! Northside FIAT, one of four Houston dealers chosen from over 600 applicants nationally to represent FIAT in its return to the U.S. market, will be providing Fiat 500s to test drive. Four Fiat 500s will be parked on the sidewalk in front of GRB Convention Center’s Exhibit Hall D, ready to be test driven.
Houston Superbikes will be on hand with Ducati and Aprilia motorcycles. This all Italian motorcycle dealership carries a full line of motorbikes from these legendary Italian marques. Besides the Ducati-Aprilia experience, motorcycle aficionados can also see MV Agusta motorbikes provided by Metric Motorcycles.
Classic car buffs can enjoy seeing classic Italian cars like Lamborghini. Lamborghini Houston, part of Indigo Auto Group, will bring to the Expo the top of the line model of this fascinating luxury car. Synonymous with prestige and performance, Italian Expo guests can appreciate the sleek lines of this classic automobile.
Also, as an added bonus, a vintage collection of Lancia Integrale, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo cars will be on display. And, those with a need for speed, can get a good look at a Ferrari Testa Rossa!
While the Expo gives car and motorcycle enthusiasts a chance to enjoy fine Italian cars and motorbikes, it also features food and wine importers, handcrafted goods, Houston’s finest Italian restaurants, fashion shows, cooking demonstrations, an inter-active kid's area, Italian language classes, and musical and dance performances. Italian Expo will be hosting over 150 companies and vendors from Italy and the U.S. to an anticipated audience of over 21,000 attendees.
Italian Expo tickets are $15 at the door, but are available for pre-sale online at www.italianexpo.us for just $10 until June 2 only. Italian Expo will be open from 4:00 pm – 10:30 pm on Friday, 12:00 pm – 10:30 pm on Saturday, and 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm on Sunday.
The long-anticipated return of FIAT to the U. S. market is here and the new release, Fiat 500, will be on display at Italian Expo. Not only can Expo guests see the Fiat 500 (“Cinquecento” in Italian), but they also have a chance to take one out for a spin! Northside FIAT, one of four Houston dealers chosen from over 600 applicants nationally to represent FIAT in its return to the U.S. market, will be providing Fiat 500s to test drive. Four Fiat 500s will be parked on the sidewalk in front of GRB Convention Center’s Exhibit Hall D, ready to be test driven.
Houston Superbikes will be on hand with Ducati and Aprilia motorcycles. This all Italian motorcycle dealership carries a full line of motorbikes from these legendary Italian marques. Besides the Ducati-Aprilia experience, motorcycle aficionados can also see MV Agusta motorbikes provided by Metric Motorcycles.
Classic car buffs can enjoy seeing classic Italian cars like Lamborghini. Lamborghini Houston, part of Indigo Auto Group, will bring to the Expo the top of the line model of this fascinating luxury car. Synonymous with prestige and performance, Italian Expo guests can appreciate the sleek lines of this classic automobile.
Also, as an added bonus, a vintage collection of Lancia Integrale, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo cars will be on display. And, those with a need for speed, can get a good look at a Ferrari Testa Rossa!
While the Expo gives car and motorcycle enthusiasts a chance to enjoy fine Italian cars and motorbikes, it also features food and wine importers, handcrafted goods, Houston’s finest Italian restaurants, fashion shows, cooking demonstrations, an inter-active kid's area, Italian language classes, and musical and dance performances. Italian Expo will be hosting over 150 companies and vendors from Italy and the U.S. to an anticipated audience of over 21,000 attendees.
Italian Expo tickets are $15 at the door, but are available for pre-sale online at www.italianexpo.us for just $10 until June 2 only. Italian Expo will be open from 4:00 pm – 10:30 pm on Friday, 12:00 pm – 10:30 pm on Saturday, and 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm on Sunday.
UTSA Wins Southland Conference Commissioner’s Cup
UTSA also wins women’s all-sports trophy, while Stephen F. Austin wins men’s all-sports trophy
FRISCO, TEXAS (May 22, 2011) On the strength of two regular-season team championships and seven top-three finishes, UTSA claimed its second Southland Conference Commissioner’s Cup, the league office announced Sunday.
UTSA compiled 142.5 points to edge last year’s Cup winner, Stephen F. Austin, by one point with 141.5 points. The Roadrunners won their first Cup in 2008 and have finished as the runnerup in four of the last five Cup standings. UTSA is one of four Southland universities to win at least two Commissioner’s Cups, joining Sam Houston State, UT Arlington and Texas State.
UTSA totaled 78.5 points to win their first outright women’s all-sports trophy in program history. The Roadrunners finished in a first-place tie with former conference member Louisiana-Monroe in 1994. Since that time, UTSA has finished in the top four 12 times with four second-place scores.
The Roadrunners had 64 points to finish second in the men’s all-sports trophy standings behind Stephen F. Austin, which totaled 69 points. UTSA, which won the men’s all-sports trophy in 2006 and 2008, has been one of the more consistent programs in the conference, finishing no less than third in each of the last eight seasons.
The UTSA women won its first golf championship and finished in the top five in five other sports, including second place in soccer and volleyball. The UTSA men won their sixth consecutive indoor track and field title and recorded a top-five finish in four other sports, including second place in tennis and outdoor track and field.
Stephen F. Austin, the 2010 Commissioner’s Cup winner, was one point shy of claiming a share of its second overall trophy in the last two seasons. SFA was equally impressive in 2011 as the men’s and women’s programs combined to win five conference championships. The men claimed titles in football and outdoor track and field and the women swept championships in cross country and both indoor and outdoor track and field.
Texas State (124), UT Arlington (121.5) and Sam Houston State (119.5), came in third, fourth and fifth place, respectively, by a margin of less than five points. McNeese State (112.5) finished sixth, Lamar (110), was seventh and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi (89.5) finished in eighth place. Northwestern State (83.0), Central Arkansas (80.0), Southeastern Louisiana (80.0) and Nicholls (64.0) round out this year’s standings.
The Commissioner’s Cup is awarded annually to the top overall athletics program in the Southland Conference. Texas State leads all member institutions with four. In the 14-year history of the Commissioner’s Cup, UT Arlington and Sam Houston State each have three, UTSA now has two, and Northwestern State and Stephen F. Austin have one apiece.
The Southland Conference all-sports trophies are awarded annually for men’s and women’s competition based on a 12-point system for all conference sports. Point values are 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1, pending place of finish. Regular-season standings are used for sports that have a conference tournament. The Commissioner’s Cup is awarded to the university compiling the highest combined total of men’s and women’s all-sports points.
The three trophies will be presented at the annual Southland Conference Honors Ceremony and Dinner Tuesday night at the San Luis Resort in Galveston, Texas.
FRISCO, TEXAS (May 22, 2011) On the strength of two regular-season team championships and seven top-three finishes, UTSA claimed its second Southland Conference Commissioner’s Cup, the league office announced Sunday.
UTSA compiled 142.5 points to edge last year’s Cup winner, Stephen F. Austin, by one point with 141.5 points. The Roadrunners won their first Cup in 2008 and have finished as the runnerup in four of the last five Cup standings. UTSA is one of four Southland universities to win at least two Commissioner’s Cups, joining Sam Houston State, UT Arlington and Texas State.
UTSA totaled 78.5 points to win their first outright women’s all-sports trophy in program history. The Roadrunners finished in a first-place tie with former conference member Louisiana-Monroe in 1994. Since that time, UTSA has finished in the top four 12 times with four second-place scores.
The Roadrunners had 64 points to finish second in the men’s all-sports trophy standings behind Stephen F. Austin, which totaled 69 points. UTSA, which won the men’s all-sports trophy in 2006 and 2008, has been one of the more consistent programs in the conference, finishing no less than third in each of the last eight seasons.
The UTSA women won its first golf championship and finished in the top five in five other sports, including second place in soccer and volleyball. The UTSA men won their sixth consecutive indoor track and field title and recorded a top-five finish in four other sports, including second place in tennis and outdoor track and field.
Stephen F. Austin, the 2010 Commissioner’s Cup winner, was one point shy of claiming a share of its second overall trophy in the last two seasons. SFA was equally impressive in 2011 as the men’s and women’s programs combined to win five conference championships. The men claimed titles in football and outdoor track and field and the women swept championships in cross country and both indoor and outdoor track and field.
Texas State (124), UT Arlington (121.5) and Sam Houston State (119.5), came in third, fourth and fifth place, respectively, by a margin of less than five points. McNeese State (112.5) finished sixth, Lamar (110), was seventh and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi (89.5) finished in eighth place. Northwestern State (83.0), Central Arkansas (80.0), Southeastern Louisiana (80.0) and Nicholls (64.0) round out this year’s standings.
The Commissioner’s Cup is awarded annually to the top overall athletics program in the Southland Conference. Texas State leads all member institutions with four. In the 14-year history of the Commissioner’s Cup, UT Arlington and Sam Houston State each have three, UTSA now has two, and Northwestern State and Stephen F. Austin have one apiece.
The Southland Conference all-sports trophies are awarded annually for men’s and women’s competition based on a 12-point system for all conference sports. Point values are 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1, pending place of finish. Regular-season standings are used for sports that have a conference tournament. The Commissioner’s Cup is awarded to the university compiling the highest combined total of men’s and women’s all-sports points.
The three trophies will be presented at the annual Southland Conference Honors Ceremony and Dinner Tuesday night at the San Luis Resort in Galveston, Texas.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Houston Dynamo Ties New York Red Bulls 2-2 in MLS Action
(New York Red Bull defender Rafael Marquez (4) punches a shot towards the Houston Dynamo goal being defended by goalkeeper Tyler Deric (24). Photo by Darla Tamulitis-La Vita Loco Photography, Copyright 2011, All Rights Reserved.)By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2011 TexSport Publications
HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 21, 2011) The Houston Dynamo (3-3-5, 14 points) battled to a 2-2 tie with the New York Red Bulls (4-2-4, 16 points) in MLS action at the University of Houston's Robertson Stadium.
The Red Bulls tied the game in the 90th minute when Mehdi Ballouchy headed home a Joel Lindpere corner kick to endure the tie.
The Red Bulls got off to an early lead in the 1st minute when midfielder Dane Richards put the Red Bulls on the board early with a rocket past Tally Hall, with an assist from forward Luke Rodgers.
The Dynamo came back and tied the game on a Brad Davis penalty kick fired past Sutton to tie the score at 1-1.
The Dynamo took the lead in the 82nd minute when Koke fired home a rebound past Red Bulls goalkeeper Greg Sutton for the score.
The Dynamo will next face the LA Galaxy on Wednesday, May 25 at the Home Depot Center in Carson, CA.
Wednesday, May 04, 2011
Houston Marathon Committee Announces Official Run for a Reason Charities
Charity program welcomes 57 nonprofits to its 2011-2012 campaign
HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 4, 2011) The Houston Marathon Committee is excited to announce its new charity lineup for the Chevron Houston Marathon's 2011-2012 Run for a Reason program.
Linking more than 30,000 runners with 57 nonprofit organizations, the Run for a Reason program provides an avenue for race participants, individuals and organizations to collect donations on behalf of an official charity of their choice. In addition, it provides a platform for charities to raise awareness and educate others about their cause.
Last year, the Run for a Reason program generated a record $2,086,000 benefiting 52 nonprofit organizations, surpassing $12.4 million in charitable donations in the program's 17-year history.
"Local philanthropies need support more than ever and the passionate runners and fundraisers who participate in our event annually continue to exceed our expectations," said Wade Morehead, executive director of the Houston Marathon Committee. "We are proud to welcome and support these 57 charities, and are truly pleased with the continued success and growth of the Run for a Reason program."
The Run for a Reason program also offers additional ways to enter the Chevron Houston Marathon and Aramco Houston Half Marathon.
A limited number of guaranteed race entries will be available through a "Hero" charity registration. This program enables runners to make an upfront, direct tax-deductible donation of at least $350 to an official Run for a Reason charity of their choice, plus the cost of registration, to secure a guaranteed race entry. "Hero" charity registration opens on June 1, 2011 and is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Runners may also "fundraise for registration" to receive a guaranteed race entry. Participating charities set their own fundraising objectives and deadlines required to receive a race entry. "Fundraise for registration" entries are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. A list of participating charities will be posted on the event website (RunforaReasonHouston.org) on June 1, 2011. Runners should contact these organizations directly for more information.
The 40th anniversary running of the Chevron Houston Marathon and companion Aramco Houston Half Marathon and El Paso Corporation 5K is scheduled for January 15, 2012.
To learn more about the Run for a Reason charity program and for a complete list of official 2011-2012 charities, visit RunforaReasonHouston.org.
HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 4, 2011) The Houston Marathon Committee is excited to announce its new charity lineup for the Chevron Houston Marathon's 2011-2012 Run for a Reason program.
Linking more than 30,000 runners with 57 nonprofit organizations, the Run for a Reason program provides an avenue for race participants, individuals and organizations to collect donations on behalf of an official charity of their choice. In addition, it provides a platform for charities to raise awareness and educate others about their cause.
Last year, the Run for a Reason program generated a record $2,086,000 benefiting 52 nonprofit organizations, surpassing $12.4 million in charitable donations in the program's 17-year history.
"Local philanthropies need support more than ever and the passionate runners and fundraisers who participate in our event annually continue to exceed our expectations," said Wade Morehead, executive director of the Houston Marathon Committee. "We are proud to welcome and support these 57 charities, and are truly pleased with the continued success and growth of the Run for a Reason program."
The Run for a Reason program also offers additional ways to enter the Chevron Houston Marathon and Aramco Houston Half Marathon.
A limited number of guaranteed race entries will be available through a "Hero" charity registration. This program enables runners to make an upfront, direct tax-deductible donation of at least $350 to an official Run for a Reason charity of their choice, plus the cost of registration, to secure a guaranteed race entry. "Hero" charity registration opens on June 1, 2011 and is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Runners may also "fundraise for registration" to receive a guaranteed race entry. Participating charities set their own fundraising objectives and deadlines required to receive a race entry. "Fundraise for registration" entries are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. A list of participating charities will be posted on the event website (RunforaReasonHouston.org) on June 1, 2011. Runners should contact these organizations directly for more information.
The 40th anniversary running of the Chevron Houston Marathon and companion Aramco Houston Half Marathon and El Paso Corporation 5K is scheduled for January 15, 2012.
To learn more about the Run for a Reason charity program and for a complete list of official 2011-2012 charities, visit RunforaReasonHouston.org.
Sunday, May 01, 2011
Pitching Powers UH Baseball To 5-3 Win Over UCF
ORLANDO, FLORIDA (May 1, 2011) Juniors Jared Ray and Jordan Mannisto combined to allow just three runs to the UCF Knights, giving the University of Houston baseball team a 5-3 win in the series finale Sunday afternoon at Jay Bergman Field.
With the win, Houston wins the series 2-1 and improves to 22-23 overall and 9-6 in Conference USA action. The Cougars also move in to a tie for second place with the Rice Owls in the C-USA standings.
In his second start this season, Ray earned his first win in five innings on the mound. He allowed one run on two hits with a strikeout and two walks. Mannisto pitched the final four innings, allowing two runs on six hits with one
strikeout.
Senior Caleb Ramsey led the team at the plate with a 3-for-4 performance,
scoring two runs with a double. Sophomore Chase Jensen added two hits, two runs
and an RBI.
Just has they had all series, the Cougars struck first in the finale. With one
out, Ramsey singled through the left side to put a runner on base. He would
advance to second on a passed ball by UCF catcher Beau Taylor before scoring on
junior Matt Creel’s RBI single to centerfield.
The Cougars’ run in the top of the first was answered in the bottom of the
inning, tying the score 1-1. Ronnie Richardson reached base after being hit by a
pitch and moved to third on D.J. Hicks’ single to right field before scoring on
Jonathan Griffin’s sacrifice fly to right field.
Jensen helped the Cougars break the 1-1 tie in the sixth inning. After reaching
base on a single to right field, he advanced to third on senior Joel Ansley’s
single through the left side and scored on junior John Cannon’s groundout to
third base.
Junior Codey Morehouse and Jensen helped the Cougars add to their lead in the
eighth inning. The pair hit back-to-back doubles to give UH a 3-1 lead and a
throwing error by UCF shortstop Darnell Sweeney allowed Jensen to score from
second base.
The Knights made it a tight game in the bottom of the inning, scoring on
Griffin’s two-run home run but the Cougars were able to score a run in their
final at bat and take the series win.
Following the series against UCF, UH will have a few days of rest before they
host cross-town rival Rice in a three-game series, May 6-8 at Cougar Field. All
three games of the series will air on Comcast Sports Southwest.
With the win, Houston wins the series 2-1 and improves to 22-23 overall and 9-6 in Conference USA action. The Cougars also move in to a tie for second place with the Rice Owls in the C-USA standings.
In his second start this season, Ray earned his first win in five innings on the mound. He allowed one run on two hits with a strikeout and two walks. Mannisto pitched the final four innings, allowing two runs on six hits with one
strikeout.
Senior Caleb Ramsey led the team at the plate with a 3-for-4 performance,
scoring two runs with a double. Sophomore Chase Jensen added two hits, two runs
and an RBI.
Just has they had all series, the Cougars struck first in the finale. With one
out, Ramsey singled through the left side to put a runner on base. He would
advance to second on a passed ball by UCF catcher Beau Taylor before scoring on
junior Matt Creel’s RBI single to centerfield.
The Cougars’ run in the top of the first was answered in the bottom of the
inning, tying the score 1-1. Ronnie Richardson reached base after being hit by a
pitch and moved to third on D.J. Hicks’ single to right field before scoring on
Jonathan Griffin’s sacrifice fly to right field.
Jensen helped the Cougars break the 1-1 tie in the sixth inning. After reaching
base on a single to right field, he advanced to third on senior Joel Ansley’s
single through the left side and scored on junior John Cannon’s groundout to
third base.
Junior Codey Morehouse and Jensen helped the Cougars add to their lead in the
eighth inning. The pair hit back-to-back doubles to give UH a 3-1 lead and a
throwing error by UCF shortstop Darnell Sweeney allowed Jensen to score from
second base.
The Knights made it a tight game in the bottom of the inning, scoring on
Griffin’s two-run home run but the Cougars were able to score a run in their
final at bat and take the series win.
Following the series against UCF, UH will have a few days of rest before they
host cross-town rival Rice in a three-game series, May 6-8 at Cougar Field. All
three games of the series will air on Comcast Sports Southwest.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl Announces Dec. 30 Kickoff In Dallas
FORT WORTH, TEXAS (April 19, 2011) The Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl will return to Dallas for the second-straight year as the ninth edition of the nationally televised postseason college football bowl game on ESPN will be played Friday, Dec. 30, at SMU’s Gerald J. Ford Stadium with an 11 a.m. CST kickoff.“For the fifth year in a row, we are very pleased to have a post-Christmas game date which will be featured on ESPN,” said Brant B. Ringler, executive director of the Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl. “We also look forward to continuing our relationship with SMU after staging a highly successful event at Ford Stadium this past December.”
Due to renovations at TCU’s Amon G. Carter Stadium, the 2010 Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl was played at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas where a facility record crowd of 36,742 watched Army post a 16-14 win over SMU. The 2011 Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl currently features a matchup between schools from Conference USA and the Mountain West Conference.
“We are excited to serve as the host of the Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl for the second-straight year,” said Steve Orsini, SMU’s director of athletics. “We enjoyed our association with the bowl staff and committee in 2010 and look forward to working with the group again in 2011. As we stated when we signed the initial agreement last August, the patriotism that this game represents is something with which we are proud to be associated. In addition, the hosting of this game in our stadium last December showcased our school and campus before a national television audience, and we look forward to having that opportunity again in 2011.”
The Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl, which is scheduled to return to Amon G. Carter Stadium in 2012, has featured a military theme since 2006. Patriotic overtones recognizing all five branches of the military are prevalent throughout the game. Past Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowls have included fan-fest areas showcasing military hardware; flyovers; demonstrations by several of the military’s top skydiving teams; on-field induction ceremonies; military bands and honor guards; and the awarding of the annual “Great American Patriot Award” (GAPA) presented by Armed Forces Insurance.
TCU announced a $105-million renovation of the west side and north end zone of Amon G. Carter Stadium in August 2010 to upgrade amenities and transform the historic Fort Worth icon into the "Camden Yards" of collegiate football stadiums. Construction began immediately following TCU's final 2010 home game and is slated for completion prior to the Horned Frogs’ 2012 regular season.
“Due to our continued improvements to Amon G. Carter Stadium, we will be unable to host the 2011 Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl,” said Chris Del Conte, TCU’s director of athletics. “Our stadium and city is the true home for this patriotic bowl game and we look forward to showcasing our new football facility upon its return following the 2012 regular season.”
Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company, joined the bowl on August 23, 2006, as the title sponsor of the postseason college football game formerly known as the PlainsCapital Fort Worth Bowl (2003, 2004) and the Fort Worth Bowl (2005). 2006 marked the first year for the adoption of the “Armed Forces Bowl” name, making the official title the Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl. Bell Helicopter has twice exercised its option for title sponsorship of the game. The current agreement was signed in Septembe r 2009 to continue the sponsorship for the 2010 and 2011 games with a two-year option for 2012 and 2013.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Chicago Fire Down Houston Dynamo 3-0 in Reserve League Action
BRIDGEVIEW, ILLINOIS (April 24, 2011) The Houston Dynamo Reserves suffered their first loss of the 2011 season Sunday morning, falling 3-0 to the Chicago Fire at the Toyota Park practice field in Bridgeview, Ill. Houston is now 1-1 on the season, with its next match scheduled for Sunday, May 15.
Chicago took the lead in the 16th minute when Orr Barouch played a pass into the penalty area for forward Gabriel Ferrari. Dynamo defender Eddie Robinson broke up the play but saw the ball deflect behind goalkeeper Tyler Deric and inside the right-hand post.
The Fire went ahead 2-0 in the 27th minute on a counterattack following a Houston corner kick. Daniel Paladini played a long ball to Gabriel Ferrari, who slipped a pass to Martin Rivas at the top of the box, where he created space and fired a shot into the lower left corner.
Chicago made the score 3-0 in the 41st minute when left back Pari Pantazopoulos broke into the penalty area and fed Rivas. His first shot was denied by a sprawling Deric, but Rivas slotted home the rebound for his second goal of the game.
Houston controlled the second half, outshooting Chicago and going close through Alex Dixon and Je-Vaughn Watson, but Chicago goalkeeper Sean Johnson finished with four saves to earn the shutout. The Dynamo used four current Dynamo Academy players in the match, with Ábe Matamoros (Strake Jesuit) starting in midfield and Bryan Celis (Katy Mayde Creek), Miguel Zapata (Katy Mayde Creek), and Christian Gonzalez (Spring Woods) all entering as substitutes.
Chicago took the lead in the 16th minute when Orr Barouch played a pass into the penalty area for forward Gabriel Ferrari. Dynamo defender Eddie Robinson broke up the play but saw the ball deflect behind goalkeeper Tyler Deric and inside the right-hand post.
The Fire went ahead 2-0 in the 27th minute on a counterattack following a Houston corner kick. Daniel Paladini played a long ball to Gabriel Ferrari, who slipped a pass to Martin Rivas at the top of the box, where he created space and fired a shot into the lower left corner.
Chicago made the score 3-0 in the 41st minute when left back Pari Pantazopoulos broke into the penalty area and fed Rivas. His first shot was denied by a sprawling Deric, but Rivas slotted home the rebound for his second goal of the game.
Houston controlled the second half, outshooting Chicago and going close through Alex Dixon and Je-Vaughn Watson, but Chicago goalkeeper Sean Johnson finished with four saves to earn the shutout. The Dynamo used four current Dynamo Academy players in the match, with Ábe Matamoros (Strake Jesuit) starting in midfield and Bryan Celis (Katy Mayde Creek), Miguel Zapata (Katy Mayde Creek), and Christian Gonzalez (Spring Woods) all entering as substitutes.
Rice Owls Win Four Events at J.Fred Duckett Twilight Track Meet
HOUSTON,TEXAS (April 24, 2011) Houston – Rice’s women’s track and field squad collected four first place finishes at the eighth annual J.Fred Duckett Twilight held on the Rice campus at Holloway Field and Ley Track.
Morgan Mayse, who recently completed her fourth season as a member of the Owls’ women’s basketball team, won the high jump event in her first track and field competition since her high school days. Mayse jumped a team season-best 1.71m/5-7.25.
In the discus, Sharae Robinson was first with a mark of 46.83m/153-8. Her sister, Tina, captured the hammer throw event with a mark of 51.45m/168-9. Ari Ince won the javelin with a distance of 43.45m/142-7.
Candace Springer, ran a season-best 200m (25.09) to place eighth. Sarah Lyons ran a season-fast 400m (55.50) in placing fourth and Lillian Nwora was seventh (57.63).
Kylie Cullinan was sixth in the 800m with a time of 2:15.45. Alex Gibbs placed third in the 100m hurdles with a time of 14.51. Cullinan also placed fourth in the 1500m with a season-best time of 4:38.36 and Nicole Mericle was seventh (4:42.51). Sarah Agara placed third in the triple jump with a mark of 11.89m/39-0.25.
Also in the discus, Brittany Brown was sixth (40.05m/131-5) in the discus, while Sharae Robinson posted a season-best mark to place second in the hammer throw (48.93m/160-6). Brown was also sixth in the hammer (45.13m/148-1). In the shot put, Tina Robinson was third with a mark of 13.45m/44-1.5.
Morgan Mayse, who recently completed her fourth season as a member of the Owls’ women’s basketball team, won the high jump event in her first track and field competition since her high school days. Mayse jumped a team season-best 1.71m/5-7.25.
In the discus, Sharae Robinson was first with a mark of 46.83m/153-8. Her sister, Tina, captured the hammer throw event with a mark of 51.45m/168-9. Ari Ince won the javelin with a distance of 43.45m/142-7.
Candace Springer, ran a season-best 200m (25.09) to place eighth. Sarah Lyons ran a season-fast 400m (55.50) in placing fourth and Lillian Nwora was seventh (57.63).
Kylie Cullinan was sixth in the 800m with a time of 2:15.45. Alex Gibbs placed third in the 100m hurdles with a time of 14.51. Cullinan also placed fourth in the 1500m with a season-best time of 4:38.36 and Nicole Mericle was seventh (4:42.51). Sarah Agara placed third in the triple jump with a mark of 11.89m/39-0.25.
Also in the discus, Brittany Brown was sixth (40.05m/131-5) in the discus, while Sharae Robinson posted a season-best mark to place second in the hammer throw (48.93m/160-6). Brown was also sixth in the hammer (45.13m/148-1). In the shot put, Tina Robinson was third with a mark of 13.45m/44-1.5.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Dynamo Battle to 1-1 Tie Against Chicago Fire
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS (April 23, 2011) The Houston Dynamo extended their unbeaten streak to five MLS games and their road unbeaten streak to six games with a come-from-behind 1-1 tie against the Chicago Fire Saturday night in Bridgeview, Ill. Defender Bobby Boswell scored the game-tying goal in the 83rd minute to give Houston a deserved road point. The Dynamo are now tied for third place in the Eastern Conference, trailing first-place New York by two points.
Houston returns to action with back-to-back home games, hosting D.C. United in a nationally-televised Orange Out Friday night game this week and then taking on defending MLS Cup champion Colorado on Wednesday, May 4.
Although the Dynamo controlled outshot the Fire 15-11 and controlled 61 percent of possession, Chicago struck first in the 18th minute. After Houston appeared to break up a counterattack, Fire midfielder Marco Pappa, while on the ground, flicked a pass into the penalty area, where forward Diego Chaves ran onto the ball and scored his fourth goal of the season.
Houston pressured Chicago throughout the first half, forcing eight corner kicks, but did not get a shot on goal. Early in the second half, both teams came close with shots, as Houston’s Lovel Palmer fired off the post from long range in the 47th minute and Chicago’s Dominic Oduro rang the crossbar in the 66th minute.
The Dynamo found a tying goal in the 83rd minute on their 10th corner kick of the night when Brad Davis played the ball toward the far post and defender Bobby Boswell met it with a header that nestled just inside the opposite post to tie the game. The goal was Boswell’s second of the season, the second-highest total of his career after he netted three as a rookie in 2006.
The dramatic goal came almost three years after Boswell scored the game-winning goal for Houston at Chicago on an 85th-minute header in May 2008. For Davis, the assist was his fourth of the season, second in MLS behind Vancouver’s Davide Chiumiento (5).
The match included seven minutes of stoppage time at the end of the second half due to several injuries and delays, including a clash of heads between Houston’s Cam Weaver and Chicago’s Yamith Cuesta. Both players returned to and completed the match.
With the tie, Houston extended its road unbeaten streak to six games (2-0-4), including all three away games in 2011 by a 1-1 margin. The club record for road unbeaten streak is seven games, set in the team’s inaugural season of 2006. The Dynamo are now unbeaten in five consecutive games overall (2-0-3) and 3-1-2 all-time at Toyota Park.
Jamaican international midfielder Je-Vaughn Watson entered the match as a substitute in the 78th minute, making his Dynamo and MLS debut.
Dynamo midfielder Geoff Cameron played his 100th game for the Dynamo in all competitions, becoming the 14th player in club history to reach that milestone. Defender Corey Ashe moved into a tie for fifth place in club history by appearing in his 140th game, tying assistant coach Wade Barrett.
Midfielder Brad Davis made the 190th start of his MLS career, defender Bobby Boswell played in his 170th career MLS game, defender Hunter Freeman played in the 90th game of his MLS career, midfielder Lovel Palmer made his 35th start for Houston in all competitions, and midfielder Danny Cruz made his 25th start for the Dynamo in all competitions.
The Dynamo played without forwards Calen Carr (concussion), Brian Ching (rib separation), and Sergio Koke (visa); midfielder Francisco Navas Cobo (hamstring); and defender Jermaine Taylor (foot sprain).
Houston returns to action with back-to-back home games, hosting D.C. United in a nationally-televised Orange Out Friday night game this week and then taking on defending MLS Cup champion Colorado on Wednesday, May 4.
Although the Dynamo controlled outshot the Fire 15-11 and controlled 61 percent of possession, Chicago struck first in the 18th minute. After Houston appeared to break up a counterattack, Fire midfielder Marco Pappa, while on the ground, flicked a pass into the penalty area, where forward Diego Chaves ran onto the ball and scored his fourth goal of the season.
Houston pressured Chicago throughout the first half, forcing eight corner kicks, but did not get a shot on goal. Early in the second half, both teams came close with shots, as Houston’s Lovel Palmer fired off the post from long range in the 47th minute and Chicago’s Dominic Oduro rang the crossbar in the 66th minute.
The Dynamo found a tying goal in the 83rd minute on their 10th corner kick of the night when Brad Davis played the ball toward the far post and defender Bobby Boswell met it with a header that nestled just inside the opposite post to tie the game. The goal was Boswell’s second of the season, the second-highest total of his career after he netted three as a rookie in 2006.
The dramatic goal came almost three years after Boswell scored the game-winning goal for Houston at Chicago on an 85th-minute header in May 2008. For Davis, the assist was his fourth of the season, second in MLS behind Vancouver’s Davide Chiumiento (5).
The match included seven minutes of stoppage time at the end of the second half due to several injuries and delays, including a clash of heads between Houston’s Cam Weaver and Chicago’s Yamith Cuesta. Both players returned to and completed the match.
With the tie, Houston extended its road unbeaten streak to six games (2-0-4), including all three away games in 2011 by a 1-1 margin. The club record for road unbeaten streak is seven games, set in the team’s inaugural season of 2006. The Dynamo are now unbeaten in five consecutive games overall (2-0-3) and 3-1-2 all-time at Toyota Park.
Jamaican international midfielder Je-Vaughn Watson entered the match as a substitute in the 78th minute, making his Dynamo and MLS debut.
Dynamo midfielder Geoff Cameron played his 100th game for the Dynamo in all competitions, becoming the 14th player in club history to reach that milestone. Defender Corey Ashe moved into a tie for fifth place in club history by appearing in his 140th game, tying assistant coach Wade Barrett.
Midfielder Brad Davis made the 190th start of his MLS career, defender Bobby Boswell played in his 170th career MLS game, defender Hunter Freeman played in the 90th game of his MLS career, midfielder Lovel Palmer made his 35th start for Houston in all competitions, and midfielder Danny Cruz made his 25th start for the Dynamo in all competitions.
The Dynamo played without forwards Calen Carr (concussion), Brian Ching (rib separation), and Sergio Koke (visa); midfielder Francisco Navas Cobo (hamstring); and defender Jermaine Taylor (foot sprain).
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