Photo courtesy of Houston Dash, Used with permission |
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved
Covering the breaking sports stories from the Lone Star State.
Photo courtesy of Houston Dash, Used with permission |
Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved |
Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved |
HOUSTON, TEXAS (April 20, 2024) The Houston Dash made a big move in the world of soccer, trading forward María Sanchez (shown left) to San Diego Wave FC. But it wasn't just a simple player swap. The Dash got some serious cash and international roster spots in return.
In the trade, the Dash received a whopping $500,000 in funds, split into $300,000 for Intra-League Transfer and $200,000 in Allocation Money. Plus, they snagged an international roster spot for both the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
Sanchez had been with the Dash for a while. She first came on board back in 2021 on a short-term loan, then officially signed up for the team in 2022. After proving her skills on the field, she locked in a long-term deal in December 2023. During her time with the Dash, she played in 62 games and scored eight goals, showing off her knack for setting up her teammates with 14 assists.
Before landing with the Dash, Sanchez kicked off her pro career with the Chicago Red Stars after they picked her in the 2019 NWSL College Draft. She then took her talents to Mexico, playing for Chivas de Guadalajara and UANL Tigres Femenil.
This trade marks a new chapter for both Sanchez and the Dash. While Sánchez heads to San Diego to join Wave FC, the Dash are gearing up with a hefty amount of funds and roster flexibility.
GEORGETOWN, TEXAS (April 13, 2024) In a thrilling showdown at Birkelbach Field, Flower Mound's hopes for a second state soccer championship were dashed in a heart-pounding battle against Katy Seven Lakes. Despite a valiant effort, Flower Mound fell short in a 2-1 defeat in the UIL 6A boys state final.
The game was a true test of grit and determination, with both teams leaving everything on the field. Flower Mound, coming off a strong 2-0 semifinal victory over Austin Vandegrift, entered the final match ready to give it their all.
Coach David Doyle praised his team's resilience, noting their ability to thrive under pressure. Flower Mound found themselves trailing early but fought back fiercely, equalizing the match with a brilliant goal from Landon DeLeeuw.
However, Katy Seven Lakes proved to be a formidable opponent, with Aidan Morrison delivering a stunning 30-yard free kick in the second overtime to secure the victory. Morrison's performance showcased why he was the 2023 Gatorade National Player of the Year.
Despite being outshot by their opponents, Flower Mound refused to back down, thanks in part to the heroic efforts of goalkeeper Morgan English, who made several crucial saves throughout the match.
Photo by Darla S Tamulitis La Vita Loca Photography Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved |
It was a historic moment for Prosper, as they made their debut appearance in the state tournament. Their journey culminated in a championship victory, marking a significant milestone for the program. The win also extended the Dallas-area's dominance in UIL girls' soccer, with all state titles in all three classifications claimed by local teams for the third consecutive year.
Throughout the match, Prosper's defense stood strong, anchored by standout players like Beya Rosales, Rhiannon Mahon, and freshman Trinity Morrow. Their collective effort, coupled with Manning's crucial saves, kept Westlake at bay, denying them any opportunity to equalize.
Despite facing strong opposition, Prosper showcased their resilience and determination. Although they were unlucky to hit the crossbar twice in the first half, including a powerful strike from Hess, they remained focused and composed.
Westlake, despite their best efforts, fell short in their quest for a state title, extending their drought to four state-tournament appearances without a championship win. Despite a valiant effort, they couldn't break through Prosper's formidable defense.
As the final whistle blew, jubilation swept through the Prosper camp, celebrating a historic triumph. For Hess and her teammates, their hard work and dedication had paid off, etching their names into the annals of their school's history with a memorable victory.
Photo by Darla S Tamulitis La Vita Loca Photography Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved |
GEORGETOWN, TEXAS (April 13, 2024) The Frisco Wakeland girls soccer team (shown left) clinched another state championship in a thrilling showdown against Colleyville Heritage. The UIL Division 5A game, held at Birkelbach Field, saw Wakeland secure a 3-2 victory, marking their fourth state title since 2018.
The magic started in the 47th minute when sophomore forward Audrey Gilbert scored a header, assisted by sophomore defender Sophie Altieri. Gilbert, who was named the match's MVP, wasn't done yet, adding another goal in the 63rd minute off a pass from sophomore midfielder Finley McKnight. Though Colleyville Heritage fought back with two late goals, Wakeland's Anna Carrera sealed the win in the 68th minute.
Wakeland's journey to the championship was marked by dominant performances. They shut out all five playoff opponents leading up to the final, showcasing their defensive prowess. Goalkeeper Claire Manis came up big in the penalty shootout against Leander Rouse, making two crucial saves to secure their spot in the title game.
With only five seniors on the roster, Wakeland's success speaks to the depth and talent of their team. They maintained an impressive average of 4.5 goals per game during the regular season while allowing just 0.6 goals on average from opponents.
The championship match highlighted the strength of girls soccer in the Dallas area, with Wakeland and Colleyville Heritage continuing the tradition of competitive matchups. This year's final marked the third consecutive year that Dallas-area teams faced off for the 5A title.
For Colleyville Heritage, despite a valiant effort, it wasn't their year to reclaim the championship. However, their journey to the final showcased their offensive prowess and marked their first appearance in the title game since 2011.
Photo by si.robi via Wikipedia and Flicka Used with Permission |
HOUSTON, TEXAS (April 7, 2024) In a gripping showdown at the River Oaks Country Club on Sunday, Ben Shelton emerged victorious over Frances Tiafoe to claim his second career title at the Fayez Sarofim & Co. U.S. Men's Clay Court Championship in Houston. The 21-year-old American sensation displayed remarkable skill and determination, defeating the defending champion in a hard-fought three-set battle.
Shelton's victory marks a significant milestone in his young career, making him the youngest US Clay champion since Andy Roddick in 2002. With this win, he joins an esteemed list of American champions, becoming the seventh in the last decade to hoist the prestigious trophy.
Adding to the family legacy, Shelton follows in the footsteps of his father and coach, Bryan Shelton, who clinched the singles title at River Oaks in 1992. This familial connection adds an extra layer of significance to Ben's triumph, underscoring the depth of talent within the Shelton tennis dynasty.
The final match showcased the resilience and skill of both players, with Tiafoe putting up a valiant fight in his quest to become the first repeat US Clay champion since Steve Johnson's back-to-back wins in 2017-18. Despite Tiafoe's formidable efforts, Shelton's unwavering determination and composure ultimately secured the victory.
Shelton's ascent to the top of the ATP Rankings is now all but assured, with his projected career-high ranking of No. 14 set to be confirmed in Monday's update. This achievement cements his status as one of the rising stars of American tennis and sets the stage for further success in the future.
Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vida Loca Photography Copyright 2024, All Rights Reserved |
HOUSTON, TEXAS (March 16, 2024) Houston Dynamo FC clinched their first win of the 2024 Major League Soccer season in a thrilling match against the Portland Timbers, securing a 1-0 victory at Shell Energy Stadium. This win marked their third consecutive triumph over the Timbers, who had previously stood undefeated and perched at the top of the Western Conference.
The decisive moment arrived in the 43rd minute when midfielder Coco Carrasquilla orchestrated a magnificent cross with the outside of his foot, which a Portland defender attempted to clear but inadvertently redirected towards the goal. Seizing the opportunity, forward Ibrahim Aliyu swooped in to slot home his second goal of the season, sending the Dynamo faithful into raptures.
Goalkeeper Steve Clark proved to be a solid presence for the Dynamo, making crucial saves throughout the match, including a spectacular double save early on to deny Portland's Santiago Moreno and Cristhian Paredes.
Ibrahim continued to impress, forcing Timbers goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau into action with a potent effort in the 10th minute. The dynamic forward has already notched up two goals and two assists across all competitions this season for the Dynamo.
Defender Franco Escobar and forward Gabe Segal came close to extending the Dynamo's lead in the latter stages of the match, but Crepeau blocked both attempts.
Looking ahead, the Dynamo will embark on their first road test of the MLS season as they face the Colorado Rapids on Saturday, March 23. before returning to Shell Energy Stadium to host the San Jose Earthquakes on March 30.
HOUSTON, TEXAS (March 17, 2024) The Houston Dash have announced. the signing of rookie midfielder Kiki Van Zanten (shown left). The Norte Dame alumni brings a burst of energy and skill to the Dash lineup. With a one-year contract in hand, Van Zanten is poised to make her mark in the 2024 NWSL season, with the possibility of extending her stay into 2025.
General Manager Alex Singer expressed her delight, highlighting Van Zanten's versatility and pace, which are set to enhance the team's midfield. Her creative flair and deceptive ball control promise to add depth to the Dash's playing style, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
Van Zanten's journey to the professional arena has been nothing short of impressive. Drafted 21st overall by Houston, she showcased her talent during the preseason, even finding the back of the net in a friendly against the Washington Spirit. This achievement underscores her potential to shine on the field.
Reflecting on her college experience, Van Zanten expressed gratitude for her time at Norte Dame, where she honed her skills and thrived in a supportive environment. Her stellar record of 27 goals and nine assists in 95 appearances for the Fighting Irish speaks volumes about her prowess on the field.
Notably, Van Zanten's international experience further elevates her profile. Representing Jamaica at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Concacaf Women’s Championship in 2022, she has already proven her mettle on the global stage. Her contributions were pivotal in securing a spot for Jamaica in the upcoming Paris 2024 Summer Olympics.
Photo courtesy of Houston Dynamo FC, Used with Permission |
HOUSTON, TEXAS (March 16, 2024)The excitement is growing as the Houston Dynamo FC gear up to face off against the Western Conference leaders, Portland Timbers, in a regular season match at Shell Energy Stadium on Saturday, March 16, at 7:30 p.m. CDT.
After a thrilling run in the Concacaf Champions Cup, where they showcased their prowess, the Dynamo are raring to make their mark in the MLS once again. Despite a valiant effort in the recent Champions Cup, the team bowed out in the Round of 16 after a close encounter with the Columbus Crew. However, they remain determined to reclaim their winning form in the league.
The Dynamo's journey this season has been nothing short of remarkable. Notably, they are the only team in the U.S. competing for an impressive four trophies: MLS Cup, Champions Cup, Leagues Cup, and U.S. Open Cup. This ambitious pursuit underscores their commitment to excellence and their hunger for success.
Adding to the anticipation is the recent acquisition of midfielder Latif Blessing, a seasoned MLS veteran with a stellar track record. Blessing's arrival injects further talent and depth into an already formidable Dynamo lineup.
As the Dynamo prepare to take on the Portland Timbers, they'll be looking to continue their dominance over their rivals. Last season, Houston secured emphatic victories over Portland, including a resounding 5-0 win at Shell Energy Stadium. With the home advantage on their side, the Dynamo aim to replicate their past success and secure another crucial victory.
Photo courtesy of Houston Athletics |
AMES, IOWA (March 15, 2024) In an exciting doubleheader, the University of Houston softball team faced off against the Iowa State Cyclones, but unfortunately, the Cougars fell short in the finale by the score of 9-4, allowing Iowa State to claim victory and sweep Friday's matchups.
Houston started strong, taking an early lead with a fiery performance in the first inning. Jazmyn Rollin showcased her prowess with a powerful two-run homer, setting the tone for the Cougars. Kennedy Thomas also contributed with an RBI-double, propelling Houston to a promising start.
However, Iowa State rallied back with a vengeance, seizing control of the game with a five-run surge in the third inning. Despite Houston's efforts, the Cyclones proved to be a formidable opponent, showcasing their resilience and offensive prowess throughout the matchup.
While the Cougars displayed notable performances from Rollin, Thomas, and Bree Cantu, they struggled to contain Iowa State's relentless offense. Iowa State's Aziza Rodriguez and Jaiden Ralston delivered solid pitching performances, limiting Houston's scoring opportunities and securing the win for the Cyclones.
Photo courtesy of Houston Dynamo FC, Used with permission.
HOUSTON, TEXAS (March 14, 2024) Houston Dynamo FC made a significant move in the MLS transfer market, acquiring midfielder Latif Blessing from Toronto FC. The deal, announced today, sees the Dynamo sending $75,000 in 2025 General Allocation Money (GAM) to Toronto FC in exchange for the 27-year-old winger. Additionally, Toronto could receive up to an extra $200,000 in 2025 GAM depending on performance-based incentives.
Blessing, an MLS veteran with eight seasons under his belt, brings a wealth of experience to his new club. The Ghanaian midfielder has made 190 regular-season appearances, with 137 starts, along with five postseason matches. Throughout his MLS career, Blessing has showcased his versatility, contributing 17 goals and 25 assists.
Previously, Blessing played for Sporting Kansas City, LAFC, the New England Revolution, and most recently, Toronto FC. He enjoyed a successful stint with LAFC, winning the Supporters' Shield in 2019 and 2022, as well as the MLS Cup in 2022. Before his MLS journey, Blessing began his professional career in his native Ghana with Liberty Professionals, where he earned accolades such as the Ghana Premier League Player of the Year.
Commenting on the acquisition, Dynamo General Manager Pat Onstad expressed excitement about Blessing's addition to the team. He highlighted Blessing's winning mentality and positional flexibility, emphasizing his potential contribution as the club navigates a busy competition calendar.