Houston Dash fall to Utah Royals FC, 3-1

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (August 31, 2024) The Houston Dash ended their four-game homestand with a tough 3-1 loss to Utah Royals FC at Shell Energy Stadium. This game marked the end of a six-game streak without a goal for the Dash in league play.

Utah took the lead just before halftime, in the 44th minute. Ana Tejada found herself in the right spot when the Dash defense failed to clear a loose ball. Although Houston defender Tarciane tried to block the shot at the goal line, the referee, Gerald Flores, awarded the goal to Utah.

In the 55th minute, Utah doubled their lead with a penalty kick. The referee reviewed a foul by Dash forward Bárbara Olivieri and awarded Utah the penalty. Claudia Zornoza stepped up and scored to make it 2-0. Shortly after, Paige Monaghan added another goal for Utah on a breakaway run.

The Dash fought back in the 73rd minute when Brazilian forward Andressa scored her first regular-season goal of 2024. Andressa found space behind Utah’s defense, dribbled past the goalkeeper, and calmly finished for her second goal of the year.

Houston had a few chances to score earlier in the game. In the fifth minute, midfielder Sophie Schmidt forced a save with a shot from outside the box. Then, in the 11th minute, midfielder Elin Rubensson’s cross almost led to an own goal by Utah, but it was ruled offside after a video review.

Despite some late opportunities, the Dash couldn’t close the gap. Tarciane’s free kick in stoppage time just missed the goal.

Next, the Dash will go on a two-game road trip, starting with a match against NJ/NY Gotham FC in New Jersey on Sept. 8. The game will be aired nationally on ESPN 2 at 12 p.m. CT.

North Shore dominates South Oak Cliff in home opener

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (August 30, 2024) The North Shore Mustangs kicked off their season with a commanding 38-0 victory over the South Oak Cliff Golden Bears on Friday night. The Mustangs, ranked 8th nationally by MaxPreps, proved why they are one of the top teams in the country.

Quarterback led the charge for North Shore, rushing for 74 yards and a touchdown on just five carries. He also threw for 143 yards and two touchdowns, connecting with Cameron Smith for 113 of those yards and two scores.

North Shore's offense was unstoppable, racking up 427 total yards, while their defense held South Oak Cliff to just 238 yards. The Mustangs controlled the game from start to finish, showing their dominance on both sides of the ball.

Next, North Shore will face Crowley on Friday, while South Oak Cliff will look to bounce back against Duncanville.

Pasadena Eagles sweep Baytown Lee in straight sets in UIL volleyball

Story and photo by Chris Price
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

PASADENA, TEXAS (August 30, 2024) The Pasadena High School varsity girls volleyball team extended their record to 12-4 with a three-set sweep of the Baytown Lee Ganders on Friday evening. They kicked of the match with a first set win by the score of 25-17. They followed up with set two and set three win with the identical scores of 25-17.

On Saturday, The Lady Eagles will continue with day two of the J. Frank Dobie Lady Longhorn  Varsity Labor Day Classic. On day one of the tournament, on Thursday (August 29), they swept through their three pool matches, posting a 3-0 record.

In all three matches, they cruised to three straight 2-0 wins. In the first match of the day, they downed the North Shore Mustangs 25-8, 25-10. For their second match of the day, they rolled over the Cleveland Indians 25-15, 25-12. They closed out the day with a 25-19, 25-14 win over the Lamar Cardinals.

Game video, provided by MaxPreps, from the game can be viewed here.

Texas 6A High School Football Rankings-Week 1

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

PASADENA, TEXAS (August 28, 2024) Below is listed the pre-season (Week 1) rankings for UIL División 6A football by TexSport Publications. An updates listed will be posted weekly prior to the first game of each week.

1. DeSoto Eagles

2. North Shore Mustangs

3. Duncanville Panthers

4. Westlake Chaparrals

5. Humble Bulldogs

6. North Crowley Panthers

7. Southlake Carroll Dragons

8. Atascocita Eagles

9. Lake Travis Cavaliers

10. Katy Tigers

11. Spring Westfield Mustangs

12. Cibolo Steele Knights

13. Fort Bend Ridge Point Panthers

14. Coppell Cowboys

15. Klein Collins Tigers

16. Prosper Eagles

17. Allen Eagles

18. The Woodlands Highlanders

19. Cypress Bridgeland Bears

20. Alvin Shadow Creek Bulldogs

21. Dickinson Gators

22. Rockwell Yellowjackets

23. Houston Lamar Texans

24. Austin Vandegrift Vipers

25. Fort Bend Hightower

Houston Dynamo FC drops close match to Toronto FC

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loco Photography, Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (August 24, 2024)  Houston Dynamo FC lost a close game to Toronto FC, 1-0, at Shell Energy Stadium. Despite controlling the ball for most of the match and taking twice as many shots as Toronto, the Dynamo couldn't find the back of the net.

The game’s only goal came in the 54th minute when Toronto's Prince Owusu scored with a header that deflected off Dynamo defender Griffin Dorsey. The ball bounced into the goal, leaving Dynamo goalkeeper helpless.

The Dynamo started strong, creating their first big chance in the ninth minute. Héctor Herrera sent a through ball to forward Aliyu Ibrahim, who crossed it into the box. Unfortunately, Toronto’s defense blocked the chance.

Forward Ezequiel Ponce had Houston’s first shot on target after Herrera set him up from a set piece. Ponce’s quick shot forced Toronto goalkeeper Sean Johnson to make a tough save. Another good chance came in the 16th minute when Dorsey fired a powerful volley, but the ball went just wide of the post.

Houston’s defense also had a big moment when Erik Sviatchenko took a shot from outside the box in the 21st minute. His shot was heading for the top corner, but Johnson was there again to make a quick save.

The Dynamo almost tied the game in the 62nd minute. After a goal-line clearance by Toronto, the ball fell to defender Franco Escobar, who struck it hard, but it hit the crossbar.

Dynamo forward Lawrence Ennali made his debut in this game, marking an important moment for the team. Despite the loss, Houston remains in the playoff race with nine games left, five of which will be at home.

The Dynamo will next travel to Los Angeles to face LAFC on Saturday, August 31, before returning home for a rematch on September 7.

Pasadena Eagles fall in five sets to Galena Park Yellowjackets

Photo by Kristine Kelly, Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Chris Price

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

PASADENA, TEXAS (August 24, 2024) The Pasadena High School varsity volleyball team season record dropped to 7-4 after a close five-set loss to the Galena Park Yellowjackets at Bob Barfield Gymnasium in Pasadena.

The match, which went to five sets, was very close with the Lady Eagles taking the first set 25-22. Galena Park came back to take the second set 25-22, with Pasadena rebounded in set three by the score 25-14, which was the largest point differential of the match. The Yellowjackets rallied to take the final two sets 26-24 and and 15-13 for the win.

The Lady Eagles will next face Goose Creek Memorial (6-5) on Tuesday, August 27 with the freshmen squad beginning at 4:30 p.m., followed by the junior varsity at 5:30 p.m. and the varsity at 6:30 p.m.

Pasadena Volleyball advances to Silver Bracket of Austin ISD Jason Landers Tourney

Photo by Kristine Kelly, Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Chris Price
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

AUSTIN, TEXAS (August 16, 2024) Going into day 2 of pool play at the Austin ISD Jason Landers Volleyball Tournament, the Pasadena Eagles were looking to build on their success in day 1 and improved their overall record. The Lady Eagles went up against three tough teams; posting a 1-2 records on Friday.

First up was a match against Juan Navarro (Austin) High School, which saw Pasadena down the Vikings in straight sets 25-7, 25-11. After a short rest, they took to the court, playing their fifth match in 27 hours, faced off against San Antonio Stephens. The Pasadena volleyballers took the match to three sets. They won the first set against the Vikings, 25-20. then dropped the final two sets of the match, 19-25, 18-25; dropping their tournament record to 4-1. 

In the final game of the day, the Lady Eagles took to the court to play the Austin High School Maroons, on the Maroons home court. The supportive Maroons' fans did not distract the Eagles, however the close and evenly matched teams battled back and forth, with the Lady Eagles coming up short 15-25, 17-25.

After two days of play, Pasadena posted a 4-2 record and as a result, will play in the Silver Bracket facing Trinity High School at 9 a.m. CDT at Austin High School on Championship Saturday.

Pasadena Lady Eagles sweep day one of Austin ISD Jason Landers Tournament

Submitted Photo, Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Chris Price

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

AUSTIN, TEXAS (August 15, 2024) After winning their first match of the season against Galveston Ball on Tuesday evening (August 13), the Pasadena High School varsity volleyball team hit the road to compete in the Austin ISD Jason Landers Volleyball Tournament. The tournament, which is one of the most prestigious high school tournaments in Texas, features the top teams from around the state of Texas. The Lady Eagles entered the first day of the three-day tournament with a 1-0 season record. after downing Galveston Ball in five sets (19-25, 25-23, 21-25, 25-14, 15-12) on Tuesday.

Playing their Day 1 matches at Austin's Atkins High School gym, Pasadena took the match to three sets against the Waco University Trojans, winning the match two sets to one (25-15, 22-25, 25-22)  in Group 8 of pool play. The win pushed their season record to 2-0 and 1-0 in the tournament. After about one and one-half hour break, which saw El Paso Andress down the Trojans 25-19 and 25-14 the Lady Eagles took on Andress in their last match of the day.

They quickly dispatched the Golden Eagles in straight sets, 25-18, 25-23 to win the match and post a 2-0 record for the tournament and therefore placing at the top of group play.

Day two (Friday) will see the PHS volleyballers facing the Texas School for the Deaf (1-2) at 11 a.m., followed by a 1 p.m. match against Sam Antonio Stephens (2-1). In their final match of the day, they will face Austin High School (3-0) at 3 p.m. All Friday games will be played at Austin High School.

Pasadena Lady Eagles prepare for 2024 season with six scrimmages

Story and photo by Chris Price

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

PASADENA, TEXAS (August 10, 2024) The Pasadena High School Varsity Volleyball Team kicked off their 2024 season with a two-day, six-game series of scrimmages at Bob Barfield Gymnasium on the campus of Pasadena High School.

The Lady Eagles faced three opponents on Friday (August 9) and three opponents on Saturday (August 10). The scrimmages were contested for 30-minutes running time to give all the squads a tune-up prior to their season beginning next week.

On Friday, the PHS volleyballers tallied a 3-0-0 (W-L-D) mark against their three opponents. In the first game of the afternoon, The Lady Eagles downed the Baytown Lee Ganders by the score of 39-18. They followed up with a 32-29 defeat of Angleton High School; ending the evening with a 37-27 win over Galena Park. 

On Saturday, the Lady Eagles defeated Alvin Iowa Colony, 35-31, played to a 29-29 tie against Galveston Ball, and dropped their final match of the day, with a close 28-22 loss to Goose Creek Memorial. They finished the day with a 1-1-1 (W-L-D) record, and a 4-1-1 (W-L-D) for the two days of scrimmages. 

Pasadena kicks off its 2025 official season on the road Tuesday, August 13 with varsity, junior varsity, and freshmen games against  Galveston Ball. Game times are 4:30 p.m. for the freshmen, 5:30 p.m. (JV), and 6:30 p.m. for the varsity.

They follow up the Galveston Ball matches with a road trip to Austin, Texas on Thursday through Saturday, to play in the Austin ISD Jason Landers Varsity Tournament. The tournament will feature many of the top high school volleyball teams from around the state. 

Jordan Chiles' score change overturned by court, Impacting final standings

Photo by Skylar Walker, Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

PARIS, FRANCE (August 10, 2024) The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) recently announced a decision that has changed the results of the women’s floor exercise event in gymnastics at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. On July 5, Jordan Chiles of the United States had her score adjusted after an inquiry. However, the CAS ruled that the appeal was filed too late, exceeding the allowed time limit by four seconds. As a result, Chiles’ score of 13.666, which was initially revised upward, has been reverted to its original value.

This decision moves Chiles from third place to fifth place in the final standings. USA Gymnastics and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee expressed their disappointment in a joint statement. They emphasized that the appeal was made in good faith, following the rules, to ensure accurate scoring.

The statement also addressed the negative treatment Chiles has faced on social media since the appeal.

The statement can be read here.

USA Swimming tops medal count at Paris 2024

Photo by Skylar Walker, Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

PARIS, FRANCE (August 5, 2024) USA Swimming had an incredible finish at the 2024 Paris Olympics, ending the pool competition with two world records and three medals on the final night. In an amazing performance, Bobby Finke from Clearwater, Florida, won the men's 1500-meter freestyle. He led the race from start to finish, earning a gold medal and setting a new world record with a time of 14:30.67.

Shortly after, the men’s 4x100-meter medley relay team added a silver medal to the tally. The team, consisting of Ryan Murphy, Nic Fink, Caeleb Dressel, and Hunter Armstrong, worked together to secure second place in a thrilling race.

The women’s 4x100-meter medley relay was the final event of the competition, and the American team did not disappoint. Regan Smith, Lilly King, Gretchen Walsh, and Torri Huske dominated the race, finishing over three seconds ahead of the Australian team. Their time of 3:49.63 set a new world record, highlighting the exceptional talent of USA Swimming.

USA Swimming finished the Olympics at the top of the medal table with a total of 28 medals—ten more than any other country. Here are some key highlights from their performance:

Total Medals: 28 (8 gold, 13 silver, 7 bronze)

World Records: 3

Olympic Records: 2

American Records: 3

Double Podiums: USA had two athletes on the podium in four races: women's 100m backstroke, women's 100m butterfly, women's 400m individual medley, and women's 800m freestyle

Katie Ledecky: With four medals, became the most decorated American female Olympian in history.

Torri Huske: She secured the most medals of any American swimmer in Paris with five (3 gold, 2 silver).

Other Standout Swimmers: Kate Douglass, Katie Ledecky, and Regan Smith each earned four medals.

Relay Success: USA Swimming won gold or silver in all seven relay events, with two relays setting new world records and one setting a new American record.

Milestone Achievement: USA Swimming surpassed 600 Olympic medals on day four and finished with 615.

Bellingham and Kane save England in thrilling Euro 2024 match

By Chris Price
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

GEISENKIRCHEN, GERMANY (June 30, 2024) In a stunning turnaround, Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane came to England’s rescue on Sunday. Their heroics led to a dramatic 2-1 victory against Slovakia in the Round of 16 at Euro 2024. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, culminating in two unforgettable moments that propelled England into the quarterfinals.

Slovakia struck first with a goal from Ivan Schranz in the 25th minute. This put England on the back foot as Slovakia defended fiercely for the next 70 minutes. Despite England’s dominance in possession, they struggled to break down Slovakia’s resolute defense and failed to register a single shot on target for most of the match.

Just when it seemed like England’s Euro 2024 journey was about to end in disappointment, Jude Bellingham produced a moment of sheer brilliance. In the 95th minute, with the match in added time, Bellingham executed a stunning bicycle kick to tie the game. His incredible goal was England’s first shot on target and ignited hope among fans and teammates alike.

Barely a minute after the game restarted, England’s captain Harry Kane found the back of the net with a clinical finish. Kane’s goal, officially recorded in the 91st minute, was his second of the tournament. This swift comeback secured England’s spot in the quarterfinals and brought the fans to their feet.

Bellingham’s spectacular strike was a defining moment in what had been a challenging tournament for the 21-year-old midfielder. Positioned in the No. 10 role behind Kane in England’s 4-2-3-1 formation, Bellingham had struggled to make a significant impact in the earlier matches. However, his remarkable goal showcased why he is considered one of the best midfielders in the world and a crucial player for England.

Following these dramatic goals, England manager Gareth Southgate made cautious substitutions, bringing on more defensive players to preserve the lead. Slovakia, determined to equalize, applied pressure in the final minutes of the match, but England’s defense held firm.

Earlier in the game, England thought they had an equalizer when Phil Foden scored in the 50th minute. However, the goal was rightly disallowed for offside after a video review. This added to the tension and frustration for England, making Bellingham’s late equalizer even more significant.

As the final whistle blew, it was clear that England had narrowly escaped another early exit from a major tournament. Entering Euro 2024 as pre-tournament favorites, England had underwhelmed in the group stage, securing only five points and two goals in three games. Bellingham and Kane’s last-minute heroics have now given them a chance to rewrite the narrative as they prepare to face Switzerland in the quarterfinals.

Houston Dynamo FC sends Charlotte FC home with 1-0 loss

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography     Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 29, 2024) Houston Dynamo FC continued their impressive run with a 1-0 win against Charlotte FC at Shell Energy Stadium, thanks to a quick goal by forward Aliyu Ibrahim (shown left).

The victory keeps the Dynamo undefeated in their last six matches, during which they have scored 14 goals. Ibrahim’s goal came in the fifth minute, marking his fifth of the season. The play began with a pass from forward Amine Bassi to Sebas Ferreira, who set up Ibrahim for the decisive shot.

Goalkeeper Steve Clark played a pivotal role in securing the win, making crucial saves throughout the match. His first big stop came in the eighth minute, blocking a strong attempt from Charlotte’s Kerwin Vargas. Clark ended the night with four saves, ensuring a fourth clean sheet for the team this season.

Clark stated after the match, "It's good to win at home, and we needed the points. We played one of our best games on the ball, and the guys performed really well tonight. It was a joy to watch, and I had a good seat for most of it."

Defender Franco Escobar earned a free kick in the 27th minute, giving captain Héctor Herrera a chance to score. Herrera’s shot was on target, but Charlotte’s goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina made the save. Clark was tested again in the 29th minute but handled the challenge easily.

Houston continued to press in the second half, with Griffin Dorsey nearly doubling the lead in the 48th minute. His shot, however, went just over the bar.

Charlotte tried to equalize, with their best chance coming in the 59th minute. Clark made a crucial save, deflecting the shot and then recovering the rebound. He made another significant save in the 75th minute, diving to stop a powerful shot from Liel Abada.

With this win, Houston Dynamo FC will head to Real Salt Lake for their next match on Wednesday, July 3. Kickoff is at 8:30 p.m. CT at America First Field.

Houston Dash, San Diego Wave FC battle to scoreless draw

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 22, 2024) The Houston Dash wrapped up a two-game homestand with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against San Diego Wave FC at Shell Energy Stadium tonight. This result means the Dash have not conceded a goal in their last two matches and have managed a shutout in three of their last four games.

Dash goalkeeper Jane Campbell was outstanding, making three key saves to secure her sixth clean sheet of the season. Campbell recently signed a four-year extension with the Dash, ensuring she will stay with the team through the 2028 season. Her performance this season has been stellar, leading the league in shutouts.

The match saw some exciting moments, especially from Dash forward Diana Ordoñez, who forced a save from San Diego's goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan in the 10th minute. Barbara Olivieri's cross created the chance, but Sheridan was quick to react.

Houston's defense was rock solid, particularly in the second half when they didn't allow a single shot on target. Defender Natalie Jacobs led the team with four clearances, while Andressa contributed four interceptions. Olivieri was also impressive, winning all four of her tackles and leading the team with nine recoveries.

In the second half, the Dash continued to push for a goal. Avery Patterson's cross set up a chance for Sarah Puntigam, but the Wave defense cleared it. Tarciane's ambitious shot from outside the box also went wide. Ordoñez had a couple of late chances to score, but her efforts were blocked and off target.

The final opportunity came in the eighth minute of stoppage time when a cross found Tarciane, but her header missed the mark.

Next, the Dash will travel to Kansas City for a two-game road trip before taking a break from regular-season play. They will return to Shell Energy Stadium on July 28 to host Tigres UANL in the NWSL x LIGA MX Femenil Summer Cup.

Jane Campbell shines in Houston Dash's fifth clean sheet of season

Photo credit: Houston Dash, Used with permission

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 15, 2024)  In an exciting game at Shell Energy Stadium, Houston Dash goalkeeper Jane Campbell led her team to a scoreless draw against Angel City FC, earning their fifth clean sheet of the season. With this performance, Campbell tallied her 35th career clean sheet for the Dash and was named Player of the Match.

Campbell made five crucial saves during the game, including a standout moment in the 53rd minute when she saved a penalty kick from Claire Emslie. This marked Campbell's ninth penalty kick save in all NWSL competitions, tying her for the most in league history with Kailen Sheridan.

Houston's first big chance came early, in the seventh minute, after a foul on Sophie Schmidt. Ramona Bachmann took the free kick, which found Paige Nielsen, but her shot was blocked. A minute later, midfielder Sarah Puntigam narrowly missed the far post with a long shot. Forward Michelle Alozie also had a good chance in the 16th minute, but her shot went wide.

Campbell's first save came in the 28th minute when she denied Alyssa Thompson at the near post. The game stayed tight, with both teams struggling to find the back of the net.

Angel City was awarded a penalty kick in the 53rd minute due to a handball inside the box. Campbell’s impressive save kept the score level and showcased her skill and composure under pressure.

Late in the game, forward Barbara Olivieri had two opportunities to score but couldn't convert. Rookie Amanda West also took a shot in stoppage time, followed by a header from Natalie Jacobs in the 102nd minute, but neither resulted in a goal.

The Houston Dash, now tied for the most clean sheets this season, will look to continue their strong defensive form as they host San Diego Wave FC on Saturday, June 22. 

USWNT faces challenges ahead of 2024 Paria Olympics

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

PASADENA, TEXAS (June 15, 2024) The United States women's national soccer team is going through a big change as they get ready for the 2024 Olympics. With new head coach Emma Hayes, the team is facing some tough challenges. They have fallen to their lowest-ever FIFA ranking, now sitting at No. 5.

The updated FIFA rankings released on Friday show that the U.S. dropped one spot from their previous rank in March. This is the lowest ranking for Team USA since FIFA started ranking women’s teams in 2003. It also marks a drop of three spots since the beginning of the year.

The decline began last year when the U.S. lost to Sweden in the Round of 16 at the World Cup. This was the first time the Americans failed to finish in the top three at the tournament since it started in 1991. That defeat pushed them down to No. 3 in the standings, behind Sweden and 2023 World Cup champion Spain.

Despite this, the team showed some strength by winning the SheBelieves Cup recently, beating Japan in the semifinals and Canada in the final.

The Olympics will be Emma Hayes' first major event as the head coach. Hayes, who had a very successful 12-year run with Chelsea, was named U.S. head coach in November. She has a record of 261 wins, 42 losses, and 64 draws, along with seven Super League titles and five FA Cup titles.

For the upcoming friendlies against Korea Republic, Hayes selected a 23-player roster with only 11 players from the 2023 World Cup team. She made some surprising choices, like picking defender Sam Staab over the more experienced Abby Dahlkemper.

Hayes told reporters:

"If we can perform at our best level, then we have a chance of doing things. But we've got work to do. The realities are that the world game is where it is, and the rest of the world do not fear the USA in the way that they once did and that's valid. It's our job to grasp quite quickly what we need to do to get close again to those levels."

Team USA will start their Olympic journey in Group B with Zambia, Germany, and Australia. Their first game is on July 25 against Zambia. 

IOC announces plans for the first-ever Olympic Esports Games

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

LUCERNE, SWITZERLAND (June 14, 2024) The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is set to launch the Olympic Esports Games, a new event featuring digital sports under the Olympic brand. This decision came after a report from the IOC’s Esports Commission during a three-day Executive Board meeting held in Lausanne, Switzerland. The proposal will be brought to the IOC Session for approval when it meets in Paris on July 22.

IOC President Thomas Bach stated that David Lappartient, the Commission Chair who has been involved in this initiative since 2018, will continue to be a part of this new branch of the Olympic Movement. The IOC previously tested the waters with the Olympic Virtual Series in 2021 and the Olympic Esports Series in Singapore in June 2023.

“This will bring our engagement in esports to a completely new level,” Bach said.

Currently, there are two major international federations that organize Esports world championships: the International Esports Federation (IeSF) based in South Korea, and the Global Esports Federation (GEF) in Singapore. However, these are not recognized by the IOC. Both federations host popular competitive titles, including battle games and simulated sports.

Bach has emphasized that the Olympic Esports Games will focus on family-friendly, non-violent titles, unlike some of the more popular violent games in the esports world. The IOC's Esports events have included games like Zwift for cycling and online Chess, aiming to promote Olympic values.

Some gamers have criticized the IOC’s choice of titles for not including their favorites. For instance, Epic Games' popular Fortnite was modified to a target shooting game for the Olympic Esports Series. Despite this, Bach believes the Olympic Esports Games will become a prestigious event in the esports world, much like the traditional Olympic Games.

The IOC will manage and finance the Olympic Esports Games separately from the traditional Olympics to ensure the financial stability of its member sports federations. The first host city for the event is yet to be announced, with Japan being a strong candidate. However, final decisions will be made after the IOC members vote in July.

This new initiative marks a significant step in integrating esports into the Olympic Movement, promising an exciting future for digital sports enthusiasts worldwide.

UIL Baseball State 6A All-Tournament Team Announced

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

ROUND ROCK, TEXAS (June 9, 2024) The Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association has announced the UIL Baseball State All-Tournament Team for Conference 6A. This team features the best players from the state tournament, with selections highlighting their outstanding performances.

MVP Honors: Karson Reeder, a sophomore from Tomball, was named the Most Valuable Player. His remarkable skills and performance throughout the tournament earned him this top honor.

Pitching Excellence: Nico Partida, a junior from Pearland, shone on the mound, earning him the pitcher spot on the all-tournament team. His powerful throws and consistent strikes were crucial for his team's success.

Behind the Plate: Cade Arrambide, a senior from Tomball, was selected as the catcher. His leadership and skill in managing the game from behind the plate were exceptional.

Infield Stars

• First Base: CJ Sampson, a sophomore from Tomball, was a strong presence at first base, contributing significantly both offensively and defensively.
• Second Base: Blaine Lucas, a senior from Tomball, showcased his experience and talent, securing the second base position.
• Third Base: Freshman Ryan Maples from San Antonio Johnson displayed impressive talent at third base, marking him as a rising star in the sport.
• Shortstop: Adrian Rodriguez, a senior from Lewisville Flower Mound, excelled at shortstop, demonstrating his agility and precision.

Outfield Talents: The outfield positions were filled with top performers:

• John Moya, a senior from Pearland, showed exceptional skill and speed.
• Walker Hurst, a junior from Pearland, displayed excellent fielding abilities.
• Catcher Hopkins, a sophomore from Tomball, impressed with his versatility and strength.

Utility Player: Josh Olivo, a senior from Tomball, was selected as the utility player. His ability to play multiple positions effectively made him a valuable asset to his team.

These talented athletes have been recognized for their hard work and dedication, making them standouts in the 2024 UIL Baseball State Tournament for Conference 6A. 

Brazil top Mexico 3-2 at Texas A&M's Kyle Field

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS (June 8, 2024) In front of 85,249 fans at Kyle Field, on the campus of Texas A&M University, Brazil edged out Mexico on the College Stayion stop of MexTour 2024, with a last-minute goal, winning 3-2 in a thrilling match that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.

The action kicked off early with Brazil’s Andreas Pereira finding the net just five minutes into the game, thanks to a great assist from Savio De Oliveira. The first half continued with intense play but no further goals, leaving Brazil with a 1-0 lead at halftime.

The second half saw Brazil doubling their lead when Gabriel Silva scored in the 54th minute, assisted by Yan Couto. This put Mexico under immense pressure, and they responded fiercely. Mexico's Julian Quiñones, coming off the bench, scored in the 73rd minute after a beautiful setup by Alexis Vega, giving Mexico hope.

The atmosphere grew even more electric as the match approached its end. In stoppage time, Mexico’s Guillermo Martinez scored an equalizer in the 92nd minute, sending the crowd into a frenzy. It seemed like the match was headed for a draw.

However, Brazil had other plans. In the 6th minute of added time in the second half, Endrick Sousa, assisted by Vinicius Junior, scored the winning goal, sealing a dramatic victory for Brazil.

Tomball Cougars down Pearland Oilers to win 6A state championship

By Robert H Kelly

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ROUND ROCK, TEXAS (June 8, 2024) Houston area high school baseball was destined to shine this season, and the Tomball Cougars made sure they were the ones bringing home the UIL Class 6A state championship. On Saturday at Dell Diamond, the Cougars clinched their second state title in program history with a 4-1 win over Pearland.

Tomball (41-3), ranked No. 3 in the nation by MaxPreps, ended their season with an impressive 30-game winning streak. They also secured two shutout victories in the state tournament. Pearland (36-9), on the other hand, fell short of state gold for the second year in a row after losing 6-4 in the final last season.

The game remained scoreless until the fourth inning when Tomball brought 10 batters to the plate and took control. Sophomore right-hander Karson Reeder delivered a stellar performance, pitching a complete game with just three hits allowed. He struck out 14 straight batters at one point, allowing Pearland only one hit in the sixth inning.

Pearland's senior pitcher Jaden Barfield, who started in the state championship game for the second consecutive year, had a strong start with four strikeouts in the first three innings. However, things took a turn in the fourth inning. With two runners on base, Reeder hit an RBI single, followed by a two-run single by Josh Olivo, and a bases-loaded walk by C.J. Sampson, putting Tomball up 4-0.

Barfield, an Oklahoma recruit, had previously thrown three shutouts during the postseason but struggled in this game. Despite his efforts, he couldn't stop Tomball's two-out rally in the fourth inning.

Reeder, who came into the game with a 12-1 record and a 0.89 ERA, continued to dominate after allowing a leadoff single. He ended the inning with a double play and kept Pearland in check until Cade Adams hit an RBI single with two outs in the seventh inning.

Tomball's playoff run was remarkable, going undefeated with a 12-0 record and allowing only 15 runs. This win marks Houston's first 6A state title since Deer Park won in 2017 and only the third 6A state title for  the Houston area since 2014.