By Robert H. Kelly
(HOUSTON, TEXAS, July 29, 2007) If you happened to be looking for your seat, glancing away, or lacked the least bit of focus at the start of Houston Dynamo’s SuperLiga game against Monaracas Morelia, you missed a play that stunted everyone.
The match got off to an interesting start with a goal eleven seconds into the game. After the face-off, Dynamo forward Brian Ching sprinted towards the goal, sliced the ball to forward Joseph Ngwenya who glided it into the net to give Houston a 1-0 lead before a stunted crowd at Houston’s Robertson Stadium.
Morelia finally tied the score in the 74th minute as Marcio Batista kicked the ball past Dynamo goalkeeper Zach Wells on a single shot from in front of the goal.
The Dynamo is now 1-1-0 to stay of top of Group B along with DC United. Both have four points while Morelia remains in third place with two points. Club America brings up the bottom of the group in fourth place with two losses.
In Group A action, Chivas Guadalajara is in first place with four points, followed by the Los Angeles Galaxy with three. Dallas, who has two ties, is in the third spot with two points, followed by Pachuca with one.
The Dynamo will face DC United in a Wednesday 7:00 pm game in Houston while Club America and Morelia face off in Chicago in the nightcap.
In Group A action, Dallas will face the Galaxy in Dallas on Tuesday, while Chivas and Pachuca meet at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Lake Placid To Bid For Youth Olympic Games
(LAKE PLACID, NEW YORK, July 26, 2007) If Lake Placid can't host another Winter Olympics anytime soon, maybe it could get the new Youth Olympic Games instead.
The Lake Placid Regional Winter Sports Committee is seeking to host the first International Youth Olympic Games in 2012, Lake Placid-Essex County Visitors Bureau President James McKenna said.
"It's not the Olympics, but it's something funded by the Olympic Committee."
The Regional Winter Sports Committee is chaired by Essex resident Alexander "Sandy" Treadwell, who has contacted the U.S. Olympic Committee to line up support for Lake Placid's bid for the youth games.
The Sports Committee will also ask for support from the Olympic Regional Development Authority and Gov. Eliot Spitzer to make the bid.
McKenna said the International Olympic Committee will commit $15 million to $20 million for the Youth Olympic Games, which are expected to draw about 1,000 athletes ages 14 to 18. A summer version will be held in 2010.
The games "" to be called YOG for short "" were approved at the International Olympic Committee's 119th session in Guatemala City this month.
"We owe this to the youth of the world," IOC President Jacques Rogge said in a news release.
He said the new games are the flagship of the committee's strategy for youths, which includes initiatives like an educational project on Olympic values, a dedicated Web site for kids and a campaign highlighting Olympic values to young people.
The International Olympic Committee is looking for places with pre-existing Olympic facilities, McKenna said.
"Essex County is one of the few counties in the world that could do that."
Lake Placid hosted the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, and its event facilities have been maintained by ORDA.
McKenna said the Lake Placid region may not get the first youth games, but will host them eventually.
"Over the next 20 years, I think we'll be selected as one of the sites."
The Youth Olympic Games are expected to be held every two years. An evaluation committee will visit candidate areas before a host is selected.
The Lake Placid Regional Winter Sports Committee is seeking to host the first International Youth Olympic Games in 2012, Lake Placid-Essex County Visitors Bureau President James McKenna said.
"It's not the Olympics, but it's something funded by the Olympic Committee."
The Regional Winter Sports Committee is chaired by Essex resident Alexander "Sandy" Treadwell, who has contacted the U.S. Olympic Committee to line up support for Lake Placid's bid for the youth games.
The Sports Committee will also ask for support from the Olympic Regional Development Authority and Gov. Eliot Spitzer to make the bid.
McKenna said the International Olympic Committee will commit $15 million to $20 million for the Youth Olympic Games, which are expected to draw about 1,000 athletes ages 14 to 18. A summer version will be held in 2010.
The games "" to be called YOG for short "" were approved at the International Olympic Committee's 119th session in Guatemala City this month.
"We owe this to the youth of the world," IOC President Jacques Rogge said in a news release.
He said the new games are the flagship of the committee's strategy for youths, which includes initiatives like an educational project on Olympic values, a dedicated Web site for kids and a campaign highlighting Olympic values to young people.
The International Olympic Committee is looking for places with pre-existing Olympic facilities, McKenna said.
"Essex County is one of the few counties in the world that could do that."
Lake Placid hosted the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, and its event facilities have been maintained by ORDA.
McKenna said the Lake Placid region may not get the first youth games, but will host them eventually.
"Over the next 20 years, I think we'll be selected as one of the sites."
The Youth Olympic Games are expected to be held every two years. An evaluation committee will visit candidate areas before a host is selected.
International Olympic Committee Announces the Birth of the "Youth Olympics"
(GUATEMALA CITY, GUATEMALA, July 26, 2007) Olympic leaders voted recently to create a Youth Olympics meant to drag kids from computer screens and onto the playing fields. The first is planned for summer 2010 for 3,200 athletes, ages 14-18.
It would be the first major global sports festival created by the International Olympic Committee since the advent of the Winter Games in 1924. The program was approved unanimously by a show of hands.
IOC president Jacques Rogge said the games would inspire young people around the world to take up sports. All Olympic sports would be represented, but with fewer events, and some new, youth-oriented sports might be introduced. There also would be anti-doping controls.
Details still must be worked out, but first Youth Olympics probably would be played in August 2010, and the site will be chosen in February 2008. It would have just 3,200 athletes, down from some 10,000 at the Summer Olympics, and Rogge said the smaller scope would make it possible for smaller countries to host the competition.
The initial winter games in 2012 would draw 1,000 youth athletes. That 2012 site will be picked by January 2009.
IOC executive director Gilbert Felli said each country would send at least four athletes, chosen at least 18 months in advance - which would mean selecting some at age 12.
It wasn't clear whether the games' format would be based on an earlier proposal that youths participate without flags or national uniforms.
Several IOC members questioned that plan Thursday, and Rogge indicated the question was open. Without national identity, "the media may lose interest and the governments may lose interest and the athletes themselves may lose interest," said Alex Gilady of Israel.
To hold down costs, Rogge insisted the IOC would not allow any new infrastructure to be built for the event.
Even so, several IOC members said they were worried.
It would be the first major global sports festival created by the International Olympic Committee since the advent of the Winter Games in 1924. The program was approved unanimously by a show of hands.
IOC president Jacques Rogge said the games would inspire young people around the world to take up sports. All Olympic sports would be represented, but with fewer events, and some new, youth-oriented sports might be introduced. There also would be anti-doping controls.
Details still must be worked out, but first Youth Olympics probably would be played in August 2010, and the site will be chosen in February 2008. It would have just 3,200 athletes, down from some 10,000 at the Summer Olympics, and Rogge said the smaller scope would make it possible for smaller countries to host the competition.
The initial winter games in 2012 would draw 1,000 youth athletes. That 2012 site will be picked by January 2009.
IOC executive director Gilbert Felli said each country would send at least four athletes, chosen at least 18 months in advance - which would mean selecting some at age 12.
It wasn't clear whether the games' format would be based on an earlier proposal that youths participate without flags or national uniforms.
Several IOC members questioned that plan Thursday, and Rogge indicated the question was open. Without national identity, "the media may lose interest and the governments may lose interest and the athletes themselves may lose interest," said Alex Gilady of Israel.
To hold down costs, Rogge insisted the IOC would not allow any new infrastructure to be built for the event.
Even so, several IOC members said they were worried.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Dynamo Down Club America in SuperLiga Action
By Robert H. Kelly
(HOUSTON, TEXAS, July 25, 2007) In the first game for both teams of the 2007 SuperLiga tournament, the Houston Dynamo defeated Club America 1-0 in front of 18112 fans at Robertson Stadium in Houston.
In the match, which was physical and defensive in nature, the Dynamo scored the game’s only goal in the 41st minute.
Midfielder Stuart Holden sent a pass to forward Nate Jaqua who found the goal, sailing the ball past the Club America goalkeeper to tally the score.
The second half saw much defense with little offense as both teams traded possessions but were unable to find the goal.
With the win, the Dynamo goes 1-0 for the tournament with three victory points. Club America is in fourth pace in Group B, after D.C. United and Monaracas Morelia battled to a 1-1 tie.
Club America will not face D.C. United in Washington D.C. on Sunday, July 29 while the Dynamo will face Morelia on Sunday in Houston.
The Dynamo-Morelia game is set for a 9:00pm start in Houston.
(HOUSTON, TEXAS, July 25, 2007) In the first game for both teams of the 2007 SuperLiga tournament, the Houston Dynamo defeated Club America 1-0 in front of 18112 fans at Robertson Stadium in Houston.
In the match, which was physical and defensive in nature, the Dynamo scored the game’s only goal in the 41st minute.
Midfielder Stuart Holden sent a pass to forward Nate Jaqua who found the goal, sailing the ball past the Club America goalkeeper to tally the score.
The second half saw much defense with little offense as both teams traded possessions but were unable to find the goal.
With the win, the Dynamo goes 1-0 for the tournament with three victory points. Club America is in fourth pace in Group B, after D.C. United and Monaracas Morelia battled to a 1-1 tie.
Club America will not face D.C. United in Washington D.C. on Sunday, July 29 while the Dynamo will face Morelia on Sunday in Houston.
The Dynamo-Morelia game is set for a 9:00pm start in Houston.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
NCAA Sets Site For 2008 Division II Spring Sports Festival
(HOUSTON, TX, July 24, 2007) The Division II Championships Committee has selected Houston as the site for the 2008 Division II Spring National Championships Festival.
Rice University and the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority will serve as hosts.
"Houston provides an opportunity for events to be within close geographic proximity, which is imperative for the festival's success," said Sharon Cessna, NCAA director of championships.
"The quality of the facilities and the commitment of the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority and Rice University will provide for a great student-athlete experience."
The festival, tentatively set for May 12-16, 2008, will be conducted at the following sites:
Men's golf — Memorial Park.
Women's golf — Brock Park.
Women's lacrosse — Rice Stadium.
Softball — Jim McConn Memorial Ball Field.
Men's and women's tennis — Homer Ford Tennis Center (MacGregor Park) and Memorial Park.
"We know Houston will provide the outstanding venues needed for each of the championships as well as offer the leadership to make this a great festival for each student-athlete," said Billy Burge, chair of the Houston Sports Authority.
In recent years, Houston has hosted National Collegiate Championships in fencing and bowling.
The 2008 event will be Division II's third festival. The first spring festival was conducted in Orlando, Florida, in May 2004. This November, the first fall festival will take place in Pensacola, Florida.
In addition, the Division II Championships Committee is exploring the possibility of a winter festival for 2009 or beyond.
The Division II festivals are the only settings in which NCAA championships in different sports are conducted at a common date and place. They feature opening and closing ceremonies for the participants and also opportunities for the student-athletes to interact with one another throughout the four-day event.
Rice University and the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority will serve as hosts.
"Houston provides an opportunity for events to be within close geographic proximity, which is imperative for the festival's success," said Sharon Cessna, NCAA director of championships.
"The quality of the facilities and the commitment of the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority and Rice University will provide for a great student-athlete experience."
The festival, tentatively set for May 12-16, 2008, will be conducted at the following sites:
Men's golf — Memorial Park.
Women's golf — Brock Park.
Women's lacrosse — Rice Stadium.
Softball — Jim McConn Memorial Ball Field.
Men's and women's tennis — Homer Ford Tennis Center (MacGregor Park) and Memorial Park.
"We know Houston will provide the outstanding venues needed for each of the championships as well as offer the leadership to make this a great festival for each student-athlete," said Billy Burge, chair of the Houston Sports Authority.
In recent years, Houston has hosted National Collegiate Championships in fencing and bowling.
The 2008 event will be Division II's third festival. The first spring festival was conducted in Orlando, Florida, in May 2004. This November, the first fall festival will take place in Pensacola, Florida.
In addition, the Division II Championships Committee is exploring the possibility of a winter festival for 2009 or beyond.
The Division II festivals are the only settings in which NCAA championships in different sports are conducted at a common date and place. They feature opening and closing ceremonies for the participants and also opportunities for the student-athletes to interact with one another throughout the four-day event.
Opening Ceremonies for the AT & T Games of Texas Friday Night!
(WILLIAMSON COUNTY-July 24, 2007) You don’t have to win a gold medal to enjoy the AT&T Games of Texas as competitors from across the state converge on Williamson County this weekend. The entire community is invited to join athletes in the Opening Ceremony festivities from the entertaining Zooperstars to fireworks!
The pre-ceremony begins at 5:30 pm with entertainment and activities for all at the Dell Diamond in Round Rock to include the kids’ fun zone and even get a commemorative picture taken thanks to AT&T.
At 7:30 p.m., all AT&T Games of Texas athlete participants will enter the stadium representing all 21 of the AT&T Games of Texas sports during the Parade of Athletes. Next, the Zooperstars! featuring a variety of mascots ranging from “Dennis Frogman” to “Clammy Sosa,” to Roger “Clam”ens will entertain the crowd as they flip, dance, bounce and shake. The Texas Amateur Athletic Federation (TAAF) will recognize the 2006 Male and Female Athletes of the Year, and the night will finish with fireworks! The cost is $5 for parents and spectators. Coaches and athletes are free.
The 2007 AT&T Games of Texas in Williamson County will have more than 7,500 athletes competing in more than 20 different sports venues. Featured sports in the 2007 AT&T Games of Texas include: archery, badminton, baseball, bowling, boxing, disc golf, fencing, flag football, youth golf, lifeguard competition, paintball, racquetball, soccer (3 v 3), adult softball, swimming, tennis, track and field, triathlon, girl’s volleyball, washers and wiffleball. Medal winners in several sports are eligible to advance and participate at the national level in the State Games of America.
The Games started last weekend in Williamson County with volleyball and 3 v 3 soccer on July 21-22. Most events take place this weekend July 26-29, 2007. They are being hosted by Williamson County and the cities of Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Hutto, and Leander as well as Brushy Creek Municipal Utility District.
The pre-ceremony begins at 5:30 pm with entertainment and activities for all at the Dell Diamond in Round Rock to include the kids’ fun zone and even get a commemorative picture taken thanks to AT&T.
At 7:30 p.m., all AT&T Games of Texas athlete participants will enter the stadium representing all 21 of the AT&T Games of Texas sports during the Parade of Athletes. Next, the Zooperstars! featuring a variety of mascots ranging from “Dennis Frogman” to “Clammy Sosa,” to Roger “Clam”ens will entertain the crowd as they flip, dance, bounce and shake. The Texas Amateur Athletic Federation (TAAF) will recognize the 2006 Male and Female Athletes of the Year, and the night will finish with fireworks! The cost is $5 for parents and spectators. Coaches and athletes are free.
The 2007 AT&T Games of Texas in Williamson County will have more than 7,500 athletes competing in more than 20 different sports venues. Featured sports in the 2007 AT&T Games of Texas include: archery, badminton, baseball, bowling, boxing, disc golf, fencing, flag football, youth golf, lifeguard competition, paintball, racquetball, soccer (3 v 3), adult softball, swimming, tennis, track and field, triathlon, girl’s volleyball, washers and wiffleball. Medal winners in several sports are eligible to advance and participate at the national level in the State Games of America.
The Games started last weekend in Williamson County with volleyball and 3 v 3 soccer on July 21-22. Most events take place this weekend July 26-29, 2007. They are being hosted by Williamson County and the cities of Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Hutto, and Leander as well as Brushy Creek Municipal Utility District.
Monday, July 23, 2007
USA Judo Junior Olympic Championships Conclude in San Antonio
(SAN ANTONIO, Texas-July 22, 2007) After two full days of action at the 2007 USA Judo National Junior Olympic Championships at the Freeman Coliseum in San Antonio, it was the athletes of Texas who shined on the points spread for the event.
After final tallies were completed, Texans earned the most points of all competitors in the field with 155. Running neck and neck, Californians scored 129 points to Hawaii’s 123.
The top team also hailed from Texas, as Becerra Judo Club, located in Garland, Texas, took a commanding lead scoring 101 overall. Hawaii had two teams in the top three, including Hawaii Tenri and Shobukan, respectively.
Home to many outstanding judo clubs, San Antonio offered an ideal location for the 2007 competition. More than 700 athletes were anticipated for the weekend event.
“We are really pleased with the success of this match,” said Sherrie Phillips, one of two tournament directors. “The level of competition and incredible performances leave us with great expectations for next year.”
The biggest match of the day was the non-Olympic women’s International Judo Federation (IJF) 44kg division, touting two of the top three seniors in the nation. Two-time national silver medal winner Veronica Prado (Coal Springs, Fla. / USA Judo National Training Site at North Miami) entered as the top-ranked player, but was challenged by 2007 National Champion Taylor Ibera (Honolulu, Hawaii / Hawaii Tenri).
Prado scored two Ippon’s and a Yuko in five rounds to squeak by Ibera for the gold. Ibera managed an Ippon in her fourth match, but wasn’t able to knock Prado from the top step on the podium.
Following in third was Katelyn Bouyssou (Hope, R.I. / Mayo Quanchi Judo), the same athlete who said she had something to prove to herself after her win just one day earlier in the girls Juvenile A 44kg division. For her efforts, she was honored with the Sportsmanship Award for the day.
Teed up to be one of the most amazing stories from the event was the Boys' IJF-Junior 66kg division, a weight class with a long roster of top players. Coming out on top was Jeremy Liggett of Glenville, New York (NYAC / USA Judo National Training Site at the Jason Morris Judo Center), taking the gold in the category and earning himself the Outstanding Judoka Award for the day.
Liggett, who snatched the silver at the Senior Pan Ams in the 60kg division last may, worked his way into 66kg weight class and confirmed that he deserves the top spot in the division.
After final tallies were completed, Texans earned the most points of all competitors in the field with 155. Running neck and neck, Californians scored 129 points to Hawaii’s 123.
The top team also hailed from Texas, as Becerra Judo Club, located in Garland, Texas, took a commanding lead scoring 101 overall. Hawaii had two teams in the top three, including Hawaii Tenri and Shobukan, respectively.
Home to many outstanding judo clubs, San Antonio offered an ideal location for the 2007 competition. More than 700 athletes were anticipated for the weekend event.
“We are really pleased with the success of this match,” said Sherrie Phillips, one of two tournament directors. “The level of competition and incredible performances leave us with great expectations for next year.”
The biggest match of the day was the non-Olympic women’s International Judo Federation (IJF) 44kg division, touting two of the top three seniors in the nation. Two-time national silver medal winner Veronica Prado (Coal Springs, Fla. / USA Judo National Training Site at North Miami) entered as the top-ranked player, but was challenged by 2007 National Champion Taylor Ibera (Honolulu, Hawaii / Hawaii Tenri).
Prado scored two Ippon’s and a Yuko in five rounds to squeak by Ibera for the gold. Ibera managed an Ippon in her fourth match, but wasn’t able to knock Prado from the top step on the podium.
Following in third was Katelyn Bouyssou (Hope, R.I. / Mayo Quanchi Judo), the same athlete who said she had something to prove to herself after her win just one day earlier in the girls Juvenile A 44kg division. For her efforts, she was honored with the Sportsmanship Award for the day.
Teed up to be one of the most amazing stories from the event was the Boys' IJF-Junior 66kg division, a weight class with a long roster of top players. Coming out on top was Jeremy Liggett of Glenville, New York (NYAC / USA Judo National Training Site at the Jason Morris Judo Center), taking the gold in the category and earning himself the Outstanding Judoka Award for the day.
Liggett, who snatched the silver at the Senior Pan Ams in the 60kg division last may, worked his way into 66kg weight class and confirmed that he deserves the top spot in the division.
Medals Awarded in Day 1 of USA Judo National Junior Olympic Championships
(SAN ANTONIO, Texas -July 21, 2007)– The competition was fierce on the first day of fights at the 2007 USA Judo National Junior Olympic Championships. With more than 700 athletes between the ages of six and 19 expected to participate, the atmosphere was intense as medals were awarded and outstanding finishes were witnessed.
The event concludes Sunday, July 22, with the IJF-Junior (under 20-year-olds) division welcoming the highest caliber juniors in the nation to the mat for day two of competition in San Antonio. The first matches will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the Freeman Coliseum.
“We had high expectations for growth and intensity of the competition here at the USA Judo National Junior Olympic Championships,” said Jim Hrbek (San Antonio, Texas), USA Judo Chair of Junior Development. The competition has been excellent. The depth of the divisions is good, and the quality of judo is all we could have hoped for.”
Among the top stories was the gold medal finish by Katelyn Bouyssou (Hope, R.I. / Mayo Quanchi Judo) in the Juvenile A 44kg division. Bouyssou, who is currently undefeated outside the United States, became the youngest player ever to earn a Senior Elite National Ranking when she was just 12-years-old.
In the gold medal match against Darya Cogswell (Denver, Colo. / Northglenn Judo), Bouyssou firmly secured the title with a critical throw for ippon in five seconds. With father and coach Serge by her side, Bouyssou will return to the mat Sunday in the IJF-Junior match.
For this year’s event, USA Judo wanted to create a buzz among the age groups and provide an outlet to heighten the overall match experience.
“We changed the schedule to allow younger competitors to take part in the IJF division,” said Hrbek, “and as a result, we anticipate the change will elevate the level of competition by outstanding youth trying to make it in the older division.”
“The foremost focus from USA Judo is to start as early as possible in the development process to help young athletes get a taste of international competition,” said USA Judo Board Member Grace Jividen (Denver, Colo.), a 1992 U.S. Olympian and six-time World Team member. “It is critical that young athletes have that opportunity to compete at a higher level and go for the gold. They get to go out there and have fun, but at the same time get an Olympic exhibition. You can’t ask for anything more than that.”
An athlete who has had recent success on the senior level where he won bronze at the Pan Am Championships in Montreal just two months ago, Kyle Taketa (Torrance, Calif. / Gardena Judo) was having a great time on the floor with his fellow juniors.
“It really feels different because I haven’t been fighting kids my own age,” noted 15-year-old Taketa. “Most recently I have been going up against people two times my age, so to come here I feel more comfortable.”
The comfort led to Taketa snatching the gold in his division. He defeated his fellow teammate in his first match, and finished with ippon in both his second and third rounds.
Presented with the Outstanding Judoka Award, Joshua Villani (Bellevue, Wash. / Ippon Dojo) fought in a deep division, defeating last year’s quadruple crown winner twice. The Sportsman Award was given to Shaniqua Brown (Atlanta, Ga. / Waka Mu Sha Judo) and Antonio Rodriguez (Miami, Fla. / USA Judo National Training Site at North Miami) were recognized for the best overall technique.
The event concludes Sunday, July 22, with the IJF-Junior (under 20-year-olds) division welcoming the highest caliber juniors in the nation to the mat for day two of competition in San Antonio. The first matches will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the Freeman Coliseum.
“We had high expectations for growth and intensity of the competition here at the USA Judo National Junior Olympic Championships,” said Jim Hrbek (San Antonio, Texas), USA Judo Chair of Junior Development. The competition has been excellent. The depth of the divisions is good, and the quality of judo is all we could have hoped for.”
Among the top stories was the gold medal finish by Katelyn Bouyssou (Hope, R.I. / Mayo Quanchi Judo) in the Juvenile A 44kg division. Bouyssou, who is currently undefeated outside the United States, became the youngest player ever to earn a Senior Elite National Ranking when she was just 12-years-old.
In the gold medal match against Darya Cogswell (Denver, Colo. / Northglenn Judo), Bouyssou firmly secured the title with a critical throw for ippon in five seconds. With father and coach Serge by her side, Bouyssou will return to the mat Sunday in the IJF-Junior match.
For this year’s event, USA Judo wanted to create a buzz among the age groups and provide an outlet to heighten the overall match experience.
“We changed the schedule to allow younger competitors to take part in the IJF division,” said Hrbek, “and as a result, we anticipate the change will elevate the level of competition by outstanding youth trying to make it in the older division.”
“The foremost focus from USA Judo is to start as early as possible in the development process to help young athletes get a taste of international competition,” said USA Judo Board Member Grace Jividen (Denver, Colo.), a 1992 U.S. Olympian and six-time World Team member. “It is critical that young athletes have that opportunity to compete at a higher level and go for the gold. They get to go out there and have fun, but at the same time get an Olympic exhibition. You can’t ask for anything more than that.”
An athlete who has had recent success on the senior level where he won bronze at the Pan Am Championships in Montreal just two months ago, Kyle Taketa (Torrance, Calif. / Gardena Judo) was having a great time on the floor with his fellow juniors.
“It really feels different because I haven’t been fighting kids my own age,” noted 15-year-old Taketa. “Most recently I have been going up against people two times my age, so to come here I feel more comfortable.”
The comfort led to Taketa snatching the gold in his division. He defeated his fellow teammate in his first match, and finished with ippon in both his second and third rounds.
Presented with the Outstanding Judoka Award, Joshua Villani (Bellevue, Wash. / Ippon Dojo) fought in a deep division, defeating last year’s quadruple crown winner twice. The Sportsman Award was given to Shaniqua Brown (Atlanta, Ga. / Waka Mu Sha Judo) and Antonio Rodriguez (Miami, Fla. / USA Judo National Training Site at North Miami) were recognized for the best overall technique.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Toros, Lizards Split Doubleheader
By Robert H. Kelly
(LEAGUE CITY TX, July 14, 2007) The Bay Area Toros and the Lewisville Lizards split a doubleheader with the Toros winning the first game 5-3 and the Lizards taking home the win 9-1 in the nightcap.
In the first game, the Toros’ Will Smeltzer saw 6 1/3 innings of action, raising his record to 3-2 at the plate while giving up only two earned runs and striking our five.
Second baseman Josh Odell went 1 for 3 with 1 run and 2 RBIs, while 1st baseman Kyle Wade went 2 for 4 with 1 RBI.
In the second game, the Toros could not contend with the hitting of the Toros who erupted with a seven run third inning.
Toros pitchers Hunter Lehrman and Zach Williams gave up nine runs, eight of which were earned off six hits and four walks while failing to strike out a single batter. Lehrman, who dropped to 1-1 for the season, was given the loss.
The two teams face off at 6:00pm on Sunday to close out the series and the first half of the season.
(LEAGUE CITY TX, July 14, 2007) The Bay Area Toros and the Lewisville Lizards split a doubleheader with the Toros winning the first game 5-3 and the Lizards taking home the win 9-1 in the nightcap.
In the first game, the Toros’ Will Smeltzer saw 6 1/3 innings of action, raising his record to 3-2 at the plate while giving up only two earned runs and striking our five.
Second baseman Josh Odell went 1 for 3 with 1 run and 2 RBIs, while 1st baseman Kyle Wade went 2 for 4 with 1 RBI.
In the second game, the Toros could not contend with the hitting of the Toros who erupted with a seven run third inning.
Toros pitchers Hunter Lehrman and Zach Williams gave up nine runs, eight of which were earned off six hits and four walks while failing to strike out a single batter. Lehrman, who dropped to 1-1 for the season, was given the loss.
The two teams face off at 6:00pm on Sunday to close out the series and the first half of the season.
Toros Drop 8-4 Decision to Lizards
By Robert H. Kelly
(LEAGUE CITY TX, July 13, 2007) The Bay Area Toros were unable to keep pace with the powerful bats of the Lewisville as the fell 8-4 in the second game of five game series with the Lewisville Lizards.
Drew Caraway’s 3 for 4 performance at the plate, along with one homerun was not enough to give the Toros their eighth victory of the season. Pitcher Brandon Sisk, who gave up five runs, all of them earned, was credited with the loss.
Lewisville’s Phillip Monte earned the win, raising his season record to 3-1.
The Toros and Lizards face off again on Saturday with a double header. All Toros home games are played at Wildcat Field in League City.
(LEAGUE CITY TX, July 13, 2007) The Bay Area Toros were unable to keep pace with the powerful bats of the Lewisville as the fell 8-4 in the second game of five game series with the Lewisville Lizards.
Drew Caraway’s 3 for 4 performance at the plate, along with one homerun was not enough to give the Toros their eighth victory of the season. Pitcher Brandon Sisk, who gave up five runs, all of them earned, was credited with the loss.
Lewisville’s Phillip Monte earned the win, raising his season record to 3-1.
The Toros and Lizards face off again on Saturday with a double header. All Toros home games are played at Wildcat Field in League City.
Toros Down Lizards 4-3
By Robert H. Kelly
(LEAGUE CITY TX, July 12, 2006) The Bay Area Toros finally put a notch in the win column with a 4-3 victory over the Lewisville Lizards on Thursday evening.
In a game that saw a 1 hours 28 minute rain delay, Marcus Chandler hit a walk off double in the bottom of the ninth inning to secure the victory. He went 3 for 5 with 1 RBI in the victory, raising the Toros' record to 7-16 for the season.
Pitcher Gabe Wardsaw four innings of action, giving up three hits and striking out four.
The Toros return to the field against the Lizards on Friday for the second game of the five game series.
(LEAGUE CITY TX, July 12, 2006) The Bay Area Toros finally put a notch in the win column with a 4-3 victory over the Lewisville Lizards on Thursday evening.
In a game that saw a 1 hours 28 minute rain delay, Marcus Chandler hit a walk off double in the bottom of the ninth inning to secure the victory. He went 3 for 5 with 1 RBI in the victory, raising the Toros' record to 7-16 for the season.
Pitcher Gabe Wardsaw four innings of action, giving up three hits and striking out four.
The Toros return to the field against the Lizards on Friday for the second game of the five game series.
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Chivas Downs Motagua 3-0 in International Friendly
(Copyrighted photo by Darla Tamulitis of La Vita Loco Photography)By Robert H. Kelly
(HOUSTON, TX, July 6, 2007) Chivas Guadalajara, on the strength of Jesus Padilla’s two goals, defeated CD Montagua of Honduras 3-1 in an international friendly match at Houston’s Robertson Stadium this past Thursday.
The match was the second game of a doubleheader with the Houston Dynamo beating the New York Red Bulls 4-0 in the first game of the evening.
Motagua did not give Chivas many chances to score in the first half, with both teams playing a spirited defense which held the score to 0-0 at the half.
However, Chivas came out in the second half and quickly put goals on the scoreboard.
For his first score, Padilla took a pass from forward Omar Arellano and scored in the 60th minute. He came back two minutes later, receiving a short pass from Sergio Santana and scored from in front of the goal to give Chivas a 2-0 lead.
Chivas scored their third goal when Santana received a short pass on the left side of the goal from Arellano and sailed it into the right side of the goal to take the score to 3-0. The final goal for Chivas occurred in the 67th minute.
Motagua kept the game from being a shutout when Luis Rodas scored in the 75th minute.
Chivas was playing without six started who were on assignment with the Mexican National Team competing in the Copa America.
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Wranglers Fall 24-16 in World Team Tennis Action
By Robert H. Kelly
(KANSAS CITY MO, July 6, 2007) The Houston Wranglers dropped to 0-2 for the season as they lost to the Kansas City Explorers 24-16 in overtime in World Team Tennis action.
Playing at the Barney Allis Plaza in Kansas City on Friday evening, the Wranglers lost the first match of the evening, when Goran Dragicevic and Bryanne Stewart fell toJason Marshall and Corina Morariu 5-2 in mixed doubles.
In men’s singles action, the Wranglers’ Jan-Michael Gambill lost 5-4 to Dusan Vemic. Gambill, who is a former USA Men’s Clay Court Champion, served one ace in the 28 minute game. With this game, the Explorers took a 10-6 lead in the match.
The Explores extended their lead in women’s doubles as Morariu and Jarmila Gajdosova defeated Bryanne Stewart and Mashona Washington 5-4 in a 23 minute game. The Explorers increased their score to a 15-9 margin.
In the fourth game of the match, Gajdosova and Washington faced off with Gajdosova taking the win 5-3 to further the Explorers’ lead to 20-11.
The fifth event found the Wranglers finally getting a victory when Dragicevic and Gambill quickly dispose of Vemic and Marshall 5-3 in 28 minutes. The Wranglers cut the Explorers lead to 23-16.
In overtime action, the Vermic and Marshall teamed up to down Dragicevic and Gambill 1-0 in a short four minute game.
The Wranglers return to action on Sunday, July 8 when they take on Anna Kournikova and the Sacramento Capitals at Westside Tennis and Fitness in Houston. Action begins at 7:00pm.
(KANSAS CITY MO, July 6, 2007) The Houston Wranglers dropped to 0-2 for the season as they lost to the Kansas City Explorers 24-16 in overtime in World Team Tennis action.
Playing at the Barney Allis Plaza in Kansas City on Friday evening, the Wranglers lost the first match of the evening, when Goran Dragicevic and Bryanne Stewart fell toJason Marshall and Corina Morariu 5-2 in mixed doubles.
In men’s singles action, the Wranglers’ Jan-Michael Gambill lost 5-4 to Dusan Vemic. Gambill, who is a former USA Men’s Clay Court Champion, served one ace in the 28 minute game. With this game, the Explorers took a 10-6 lead in the match.
The Explores extended their lead in women’s doubles as Morariu and Jarmila Gajdosova defeated Bryanne Stewart and Mashona Washington 5-4 in a 23 minute game. The Explorers increased their score to a 15-9 margin.
In the fourth game of the match, Gajdosova and Washington faced off with Gajdosova taking the win 5-3 to further the Explorers’ lead to 20-11.
The fifth event found the Wranglers finally getting a victory when Dragicevic and Gambill quickly dispose of Vemic and Marshall 5-3 in 28 minutes. The Wranglers cut the Explorers lead to 23-16.
In overtime action, the Vermic and Marshall teamed up to down Dragicevic and Gambill 1-0 in a short four minute game.
The Wranglers return to action on Sunday, July 8 when they take on Anna Kournikova and the Sacramento Capitals at Westside Tennis and Fitness in Houston. Action begins at 7:00pm.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Dynamo Drop Red Bulls 4-0
Joseph Ngwenya (33) scores one of his two goals against the New York Red Bulls.Copyrighted Photo by Darla Tamulitis-La Vita Loco Photography
By Robert H. Kelly
HOUSTON, TX (July 5, 2007) On a game evening that saw the clouds clear for a bit and allow the blue sky to show through, the Houston Dynamo, on the leg of forward Joseph Ngwenya, downed the New York Red Bulls 4-0 at Houston’s Robertson Stadium.
The 14,072 fans in attendance saw the Dynamo take command of the game and never relinquish control to the Bruce Arena lead Red Bulls.
Ngwenya found the goal first for the Dynamo, taking an assist from midfielder Stuart Holden in the 28th minute to make the score 1-0. Forward Brain Ching came back three minutes later with an unassisted goal to give the Dynamo a 2-0 lead.
Red Bulls defender Kevin Goldthwaite was issued a yellow flag from a professional foul in the 27th minute.
To start the second half, Ngwenya again found the goal off a corner kick by Holden, who was also credited with the assist in the 50th minute. The goal was the fifth of the year from Ngwenya. His goal gave the Dynamo a 3-0 lead.
Holden then found the goal to take the score to 4-0. The assist was provided by forward Nate Jaqua, whose assist was the first of his career for the Dynamo.
Jaqua, who is a MLS All-Star, was obtained on a trade with the Los Angeles Galaxy for midfielder Kelly Gray on July 3.
The Honda MVP of the Game was awarded to Joseph Ngwenya.
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
Sochi, Russia Selected to Host the 2014 Olympic Winter Games
GUATEMALA CITY, GUATEMALA (July 4, 2007) The International Olympic Committee has elected the city of Sochi, Russia to host the 2014 Olympic Winter Games. The announcement was made by IOC President Jacques Rogge following a vote by members at their 119th Session in Guatemala City. The second round victory was against a bid from PyeongChang.
Earlier in the day, Salzburg, Austria was eliminated from contention after receiving the least number of votes on the first ballot.
The Ballroom at the Real Intercontinental Hotel in Guatemala erupted in cheers from supporters at the announcement which followed over two years of aggressive campaigning to win this bid.
The next installment of the Winter Games in 2010 are scheduled to take place in Vancouver, Canada.
Earlier in the day, Salzburg, Austria was eliminated from contention after receiving the least number of votes on the first ballot.
The Ballroom at the Real Intercontinental Hotel in Guatemala erupted in cheers from supporters at the announcement which followed over two years of aggressive campaigning to win this bid.
The next installment of the Winter Games in 2010 are scheduled to take place in Vancouver, Canada.
Happy 4th of July
By Robert H. Kelly On the birthday of this fine country, I cannot help but think about the things that make our country great.
So today take time to think about all the men and women who sacrificed for this country and how fortunate you are to live in the greatest country on God's green earth.
Enjoy you day off, eat a few hot dogs, drink a beer (if you are so inclined) and watch some sports on television.
After all it is the 4th of July; the birthday of the United States of America.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
DYNAMO ACQUIRES FORMER ALL-STAR NATE JAQUA FROM GALAXY
From Houston Dynamo Press Release
HOUSTON, TX (Tuesday, July 3, 2007) – The Houston Dynamo have acquired forward and former MLS All-Star Nate Jaqua from the Los Angeles Galaxy, in exchange for midfielder Kelly Gray and a second-round pick in the 2008 SuperDraft, it was announced today.
The trade adds potential firepower to the Dynamo offense, with Jaqua coming off an eight-goal season in 2006 with the Chicago Fire. Jaqua has one goal in ten games played this season with the Galaxy.
“I’m sad to see Kelly go. He’s been a big part of this group, but you have to give up something in order to get something. I like Nate’s size and power. He also has a great attitude. I look forward to him being a part of our team,” said Dynamo head coach Dominic Kinnear.
Jaqua, 25, is in his fifth MLS season. He was named to the MLS All-Star team that beat Chelsea last July at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, Illinois. Jaqua, a native of Eugene, Oregon, has also appeared in two games with the United States National Team.
Gray, on the other hand, has appeared in nine Dynamo contests this season, with one assist. Gray began his MLS career in 2002 with Chicago before being traded to the San Jose Earthquakes in 2005.
Jaqua will join the Dynamo tomorrow, and should be available to play on Thursday, July 5, against Red Bull New York (TV: ESPN2; Radio: 790 AM, 850 AM and 101.7 FM). Kickoff for this game is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CT.
HOUSTON, TX (Tuesday, July 3, 2007) – The Houston Dynamo have acquired forward and former MLS All-Star Nate Jaqua from the Los Angeles Galaxy, in exchange for midfielder Kelly Gray and a second-round pick in the 2008 SuperDraft, it was announced today.
The trade adds potential firepower to the Dynamo offense, with Jaqua coming off an eight-goal season in 2006 with the Chicago Fire. Jaqua has one goal in ten games played this season with the Galaxy.
“I’m sad to see Kelly go. He’s been a big part of this group, but you have to give up something in order to get something. I like Nate’s size and power. He also has a great attitude. I look forward to him being a part of our team,” said Dynamo head coach Dominic Kinnear.
Jaqua, 25, is in his fifth MLS season. He was named to the MLS All-Star team that beat Chelsea last July at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, Illinois. Jaqua, a native of Eugene, Oregon, has also appeared in two games with the United States National Team.
Gray, on the other hand, has appeared in nine Dynamo contests this season, with one assist. Gray began his MLS career in 2002 with Chicago before being traded to the San Jose Earthquakes in 2005.
Jaqua will join the Dynamo tomorrow, and should be available to play on Thursday, July 5, against Red Bull New York (TV: ESPN2; Radio: 790 AM, 850 AM and 101.7 FM). Kickoff for this game is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CT.
Monday, July 02, 2007
$11.50 for a hamburger, y'all must be crazy!!!
By Robert H. Kelly
The staff here at TexSport Publications absolutely LOVES commercials. You know the type. The ones that are broadcast during sporting events.
Below is a Miller High Life beer commercial. It was broadcast (at least the first time any of us saw it) at the end of the Houston Astros-Philadelphia Phillies game on HSE on Monday, July 2, 2007.
Although this commercial did not have anything to do with sports, since it was broadcast during a sporting event, we consider it sports related.
Perhaps in the future, we will start an offshoot blog about great sports commercials.
Here it is:
The staff here at TexSport Publications absolutely LOVES commercials. You know the type. The ones that are broadcast during sporting events.
Below is a Miller High Life beer commercial. It was broadcast (at least the first time any of us saw it) at the end of the Houston Astros-Philadelphia Phillies game on HSE on Monday, July 2, 2007.
Although this commercial did not have anything to do with sports, since it was broadcast during a sporting event, we consider it sports related.
Perhaps in the future, we will start an offshoot blog about great sports commercials.
Here it is: