Lovington's injury-riddled season ended tonight with a loss to Windsor in the regional, 18-25, 23-25.
See Wednesday's News-Progress for more.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Sullivan ends season in loss
The Sullivan Lady Redskins came out on fire but lost tonight to Pana, ending their season at 14-18.
The Lady Redskins lost to Pana in tonight's regional, 22-25, 10-25.
For more about the game, see Wednesday's News-Progress.
The Lady Redskins lost to Pana in tonight's regional, 22-25, 10-25.
For more about the game, see Wednesday's News-Progress.
Phillies Win Series, Fans Beat Up Santa
So, the Phillies are your new World Champions.
Betcha didn't see that one coming when the season began. Betcha didn't see that one when the playoffs began, either.
In spite of a not-too-shabby 92-win season, I don't think the Phillies were on the lips of too many World Series predictors, even after they notched those 92 wins.
Nevermind that they had three players with more than 100 runs and three player also with 33 or more home runs (including one with 48, Ryan Howard, who knocked in 146 runs!), and nevermind that they had a closer who saved 48 games out of 48 tries, a pretty remarkable feat. Still, no one saw it coming.
And I'm glad I'm not a Phillie fan, though I should expect this and more if my Cubs ever make it to the promised land - I don't think I have read an article during this postseason where the Phillies have triumphed without a headline or opening lead mentioning their awful past. Is it newsworthy that a loser team has won the World Series? Sure, but at least let the fan get down to the bottom of the story before you remind them what kind of schmucks their team had been.
Regardless, they did it, and Mitch Williams is now off the hook, and Joe Carter can maybe shop or dine comfortably in Philadelphia again. Well, maybe, this is the meanest sports town there is, where Santa Claus was once booed and pelted with snow at an Eagles game.
Regardless, it was kind of a 'whatever' World Series, between a Florida baseball team with about as rich of a heritage as a Rally Monkey, and a Phillies franchise that, for the reasons listed above and more, has just never been that lovable...well, except for the Phils' era of long hair and chew, AKA Lenny Dykstra, Darren Daulton, John Kruk and the aforementioned Mitch Williams. It was hard not to like those guys.
That's what we baseball fans are kind of up against. Season ticket sales and hype are through the roof, but the hype dwindles each season because the playoffs are far too long and have too many teams, and unexpected, undeserving teams are entering each season.
I'm not saying either the Rays or Phils are undeserving.
The baseball execs have pretty much sold their sport out for the sake of TV contracts and ticket sales. I can't even tell you who won the World Series in the last five seasons, and I expect I'm not the only one, just because with SO MUCH PLAYOFFS it all kind of blurs together.
It's nice that more fans can be interested deeper into the season than in the past, but then there is less acclaim placed on making it to the postseason.
Betcha didn't see that one coming when the season began. Betcha didn't see that one when the playoffs began, either.
In spite of a not-too-shabby 92-win season, I don't think the Phillies were on the lips of too many World Series predictors, even after they notched those 92 wins.
Nevermind that they had three players with more than 100 runs and three player also with 33 or more home runs (including one with 48, Ryan Howard, who knocked in 146 runs!), and nevermind that they had a closer who saved 48 games out of 48 tries, a pretty remarkable feat. Still, no one saw it coming.
And I'm glad I'm not a Phillie fan, though I should expect this and more if my Cubs ever make it to the promised land - I don't think I have read an article during this postseason where the Phillies have triumphed without a headline or opening lead mentioning their awful past. Is it newsworthy that a loser team has won the World Series? Sure, but at least let the fan get down to the bottom of the story before you remind them what kind of schmucks their team had been.
Regardless, they did it, and Mitch Williams is now off the hook, and Joe Carter can maybe shop or dine comfortably in Philadelphia again. Well, maybe, this is the meanest sports town there is, where Santa Claus was once booed and pelted with snow at an Eagles game.
Regardless, it was kind of a 'whatever' World Series, between a Florida baseball team with about as rich of a heritage as a Rally Monkey, and a Phillies franchise that, for the reasons listed above and more, has just never been that lovable...well, except for the Phils' era of long hair and chew, AKA Lenny Dykstra, Darren Daulton, John Kruk and the aforementioned Mitch Williams. It was hard not to like those guys.
That's what we baseball fans are kind of up against. Season ticket sales and hype are through the roof, but the hype dwindles each season because the playoffs are far too long and have too many teams, and unexpected, undeserving teams are entering each season.
I'm not saying either the Rays or Phils are undeserving.
The baseball execs have pretty much sold their sport out for the sake of TV contracts and ticket sales. I can't even tell you who won the World Series in the last five seasons, and I expect I'm not the only one, just because with SO MUCH PLAYOFFS it all kind of blurs together.
It's nice that more fans can be interested deeper into the season than in the past, but then there is less acclaim placed on making it to the postseason.
Okaw Valley knocked out of regional
The Okaw Valley Lady Timberwolves were knocked out of the regional last night by the Arthur Lady Lancers, who then surprised everyone with a win over tough contenders Arcola.
The Lady Timberwolves lost to Arthur, 18-25, 23-25.
The Lovington Lady Panthers are playing tonight at the regional, which is held in Arcola. Action starts at 5:30.
The Lady Timberwolves lost to Arthur, 18-25, 23-25.
The Lovington Lady Panthers are playing tonight at the regional, which is held in Arcola. Action starts at 5:30.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Regional volleyball action.
What are you doing this week? Want to see some volleyball??
The Okaw Valley Lady Timberwolves are starting their regional games on Wednesday at Arcola, starting with a match against Arthur.
Lovington is playing Thursday, also at Arcola, starting with a match against Windsor.
Sullivan will play Thursday at St. Teresa, with their opening match against Pana.
The Okaw Valley Lady Timberwolves are starting their regional games on Wednesday at Arcola, starting with a match against Arthur.
Lovington is playing Thursday, also at Arcola, starting with a match against Windsor.
Sullivan will play Thursday at St. Teresa, with their opening match against Pana.
A-L playoff game on Saturday
Arthur-Lovington will play at Villa Grove this Saturday afternoon for the first-round of the playoffs.
The Knights and Blue Devils will square off at 1 p.m.
The Knights are looking to get revenge, and more, after they lost to the Blue Devils on Friday night, 39-6.
For more about the upcoming match, see tomorrow's News-Progress.
The Knights and Blue Devils will square off at 1 p.m.
The Knights are looking to get revenge, and more, after they lost to the Blue Devils on Friday night, 39-6.
For more about the upcoming match, see tomorrow's News-Progress.
Friday, October 24, 2008
S-OV loses to Cllinton
Sullivan-Okaw Valley started strong against Clinton tonight, scoring first and holding the lead in the first quarter, but they ended up losing in the cold, muddy weather, 19-7.
Running back Chance Typer carried the ball a whopping 28 times for 108 yards. See Wednesday's News-Progress for more of the story.
Running back Chance Typer carried the ball a whopping 28 times for 108 yards. See Wednesday's News-Progress for more of the story.
A-L loses to Villa Grove
Arthur-Lovington lost big tonight to undefeated Villa Grove, 39-6.
The Knights could not stop the Blue Devils' running game, which ran all over them, and they could never get their passing game going.
For more information, pictures and quotes, see tomorrow's News-Progress.
The Knights could not stop the Blue Devils' running game, which ran all over them, and they could never get their passing game going.
For more information, pictures and quotes, see tomorrow's News-Progress.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Parents, Meet The Parents - Matt Rennels Edition
This past weekend was the first weekend of my new life, my parents just met my girlfriend's parents.
Here's a little disclaimer for you: Wednesday's are often slow due to a lack of scheduled sports and the start of a new work week (As print day, our Wednesdays are your Mondays), so I thought I'd get a little personal on the ol' blog.
My girlfriend, Tasha, is a graduate student at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, which is where I also live. She actually came there straight from Minnesota, why? Well, let's just call that a fate thing, because I'm not sure why else anyone would land in podunk Charleston if it weren't for fate.
Well, I won't lie, my romantic life before Tasha was pretty dry. Yep. It's true. I never had a relationship last beyond three months, so, this was the first time my parents got to shake hands with another set of parents and impress them with baked goods and/or grilling skills.
My dad cooked bratwursts, my mom made a cherry dessert.
And somehow I saw my parents and brother in a new light, and it wasn't necessarily a bright one. It's at moments like these that your mom's interesting choice of phrases or your father's selection of pants really shine through, like never before. And you never really noticed how ugly that green kitchen wallpaper is until a moment like this...
And, yes, turns out its ugly.
I spent much of the weekend helping Tasha entertain her family, going to EIU's Homecoming game, taking them to the bizarre, yet fun, Lincoln Springs Resort for mini golf, and everything else Tasha could think up. The families' mixer was relatively brief, as my dad visited with them for one evening and then the whole clan came together for the dinner.
As these things normally go, it went fine, and, or, very well. It's one of those things that you walk out, check your pulse, and then say,
"ALLLLL RIIIGHT, BABY! I'm STILL alive!!!!! ... and then you start worrying back to specific instances, like the fork you dropped or the milk you dribbled off your chin and onto your shirt, or when the family dog had a seizure and your mom started crying (Don't worry, Mr. Flizzle Flop is OK.), but then you remember your beating pulse, you're fine.
Honestly, I've been very blessed by the whole relationship with this beautiful young woman, and the addition of her family to the mix is nothing but a bonus. I'm very excited about what lays ahead of us, as I hope this was only one of many more adventures.
Here's a little disclaimer for you: Wednesday's are often slow due to a lack of scheduled sports and the start of a new work week (As print day, our Wednesdays are your Mondays), so I thought I'd get a little personal on the ol' blog.
My girlfriend, Tasha, is a graduate student at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, which is where I also live. She actually came there straight from Minnesota, why? Well, let's just call that a fate thing, because I'm not sure why else anyone would land in podunk Charleston if it weren't for fate.
Well, I won't lie, my romantic life before Tasha was pretty dry. Yep. It's true. I never had a relationship last beyond three months, so, this was the first time my parents got to shake hands with another set of parents and impress them with baked goods and/or grilling skills.
My dad cooked bratwursts, my mom made a cherry dessert.
And somehow I saw my parents and brother in a new light, and it wasn't necessarily a bright one. It's at moments like these that your mom's interesting choice of phrases or your father's selection of pants really shine through, like never before. And you never really noticed how ugly that green kitchen wallpaper is until a moment like this...
And, yes, turns out its ugly.
I spent much of the weekend helping Tasha entertain her family, going to EIU's Homecoming game, taking them to the bizarre, yet fun, Lincoln Springs Resort for mini golf, and everything else Tasha could think up. The families' mixer was relatively brief, as my dad visited with them for one evening and then the whole clan came together for the dinner.
As these things normally go, it went fine, and, or, very well. It's one of those things that you walk out, check your pulse, and then say,
"ALLLLL RIIIGHT, BABY! I'm STILL alive!!!!! ... and then you start worrying back to specific instances, like the fork you dropped or the milk you dribbled off your chin and onto your shirt, or when the family dog had a seizure and your mom started crying (Don't worry, Mr. Flizzle Flop is OK.), but then you remember your beating pulse, you're fine.
Honestly, I've been very blessed by the whole relationship with this beautiful young woman, and the addition of her family to the mix is nothing but a bonus. I'm very excited about what lays ahead of us, as I hope this was only one of many more adventures.
Sound off!
Hey everybody,
I'm inviting your comments about this fall sports season about any (or every) team, your choice, whether football, soccer, volleyball, golf or cross country.
For instance, are you pleased or disappointed with the way your Knights football team has played? Are you pleased or disappointed with the way the Redskins football team has played? Do you think the Sullivan Redskins volleyball team is going to click in the playoffs? Do you think that Chelsee McMahan is a rising star on the team? Do you think Ruthie Wheelock's injury was the key to Lovington's falter, and if she didn't get injured they could have done some real damage this season??
What do you think? What do you think? The sports season is just wrapping up and there are a lot of storylines to talk about, and we can always start looking to next season for teams that are out of it. We can even chat about the upcoming winter sports season and anything we foresee about it.
Sound off on any of this, Sullivan, Bethany and Lovington.
I'm inviting your comments about this fall sports season about any (or every) team, your choice, whether football, soccer, volleyball, golf or cross country.
For instance, are you pleased or disappointed with the way your Knights football team has played? Are you pleased or disappointed with the way the Redskins football team has played? Do you think the Sullivan Redskins volleyball team is going to click in the playoffs? Do you think that Chelsee McMahan is a rising star on the team? Do you think Ruthie Wheelock's injury was the key to Lovington's falter, and if she didn't get injured they could have done some real damage this season??
What do you think? What do you think? The sports season is just wrapping up and there are a lot of storylines to talk about, and we can always start looking to next season for teams that are out of it. We can even chat about the upcoming winter sports season and anything we foresee about it.
Sound off on any of this, Sullivan, Bethany and Lovington.
Okaw Valley loses to Cerro Gordo
The Okaw Valley Lady Timberwolves lost last night to Cerro Gordo, 14-25, 24-26.
Further information will be printed in next week's News-Progress.
Further information will be printed in next week's News-Progress.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Lady Panthers lose in two sets
Lovington lost last night to the best team in the conference, Tri-County, 7-25, 11-25.
For more information, see today's News-Progress.
For more information, see today's News-Progress.
Sullivan loses to St. T
Sullivan lost tonight to a scrappy St. Teresa team, 20-25, 14-25.
See tomorrow's News-Progress for more.
See tomorrow's News-Progress for more.
Evaluating The Teams - Football
The Arthur-Lovington Knights are no longer playoff hopefuls after beating the Tri-County Titans on Friday (read all about it in this week's News-Progress! O yea!), as they secured their entry with the win, but what's this mean??
We won't really know much until the playoff schedule established on Oct. 25, but we do know that the Knights are back in it for the sixth time in seven years. The surprisingly small squad of 26 first has to take on the undefeated powerhouse of Villa Grove this weekend at home (BE THERE! Root on your Knights and help them pull off an upset!), and then we'll let the fun begin.
I look forward to seeing the Knights in the playoffs, and I even look forward to seeing them next weekend against Villa Grove. This is a team that has a TON of heart, and that's often what wins games, not just talent.
They have a lot of that, too. When you ask coach Dale Schuring how he is able to win with such a small team (both in number and physicality), he always tells you the same thing, that he has ALWAYS had a small team with the Knights and that they have had to cope with this. The Knights take what they have and win.
Schuring has no problem saying that the Knights are a finesse team, and they apparently do it well. They have racked up 1,931 yards rushing this season (241 yards/game) on only 278 carries (an amazing average of seven yards per carry),
Running back Justin Schuring, Dale's son, could break 1,000 yards rushing this season on Friday against Villa Grove, as he has already piled up 934 yards and 10 touchdowns. Senior quarterback Adam Carver is a scrambling quarterback who keeps the defenses guessing, and he has tucked it in and ran 45 times for 404 yards and 10 touchdowns.
In this week's poll, many have stated that Sullivan-Okaw Valley could maybe learn something from Arthur-Lovington's success, and I believe that it's true that a struggling team should take note of any successful program and what their skill is. As mentioned, the Knights are now in the playoffs for the sixth time in six years, and they have always done this on finesse, meaning they have recognized what kind of team they were and have embraced that. I believe Nate Lorton is learning what kind of team he has and they are also learning what kind of coach he is.
Dale Schuring was an assistant with Arthur-Lovington many years before taking over as head coach six years ago. Being that Lorton had never seen the Redskins before wearing the coach's hat this year, he has to have a window of time to work with.
It would also be good to see S-OV's players learn something from the players of a winning program like A-L, which starred several vocal leaders on the field, particularly Dan Bolsen. Bolsen wanted the playoffs this season more than anything, and his focus became playoffs, playoffs, playoffs, and his teammates followed. That's the sort of personality the Redskins will need next season, a critical year for Lorton and the Redskins.
All year long I have been posting polls and have found some interesting responses. One interesting response, one I hear away from the blog, too, is that many people blame the Redskins' poor records in recent years on the tough conference. That statement has some validity, but that excuse and every other one needs to be tossed out the window starting in this offseason.
Our parents and teachers often told us to not make excuses, and I believe that applies in high school football, too. Many believe it would be nice for the Redskins to get more players from Okaw Valley, and it would be, but Arthur-Lovington has proven they can win with only three players from Lovington. Many say they can't win in the conference, but it appears to simply be a matter of getting students out there to play, get them trained and filled with confidence, because smaller schools in the conference have been able to do much more.
We won't really know much until the playoff schedule established on Oct. 25, but we do know that the Knights are back in it for the sixth time in seven years. The surprisingly small squad of 26 first has to take on the undefeated powerhouse of Villa Grove this weekend at home (BE THERE! Root on your Knights and help them pull off an upset!), and then we'll let the fun begin.
I look forward to seeing the Knights in the playoffs, and I even look forward to seeing them next weekend against Villa Grove. This is a team that has a TON of heart, and that's often what wins games, not just talent.
They have a lot of that, too. When you ask coach Dale Schuring how he is able to win with such a small team (both in number and physicality), he always tells you the same thing, that he has ALWAYS had a small team with the Knights and that they have had to cope with this. The Knights take what they have and win.
Schuring has no problem saying that the Knights are a finesse team, and they apparently do it well. They have racked up 1,931 yards rushing this season (241 yards/game) on only 278 carries (an amazing average of seven yards per carry),
Running back Justin Schuring, Dale's son, could break 1,000 yards rushing this season on Friday against Villa Grove, as he has already piled up 934 yards and 10 touchdowns. Senior quarterback Adam Carver is a scrambling quarterback who keeps the defenses guessing, and he has tucked it in and ran 45 times for 404 yards and 10 touchdowns.
In this week's poll, many have stated that Sullivan-Okaw Valley could maybe learn something from Arthur-Lovington's success, and I believe that it's true that a struggling team should take note of any successful program and what their skill is. As mentioned, the Knights are now in the playoffs for the sixth time in six years, and they have always done this on finesse, meaning they have recognized what kind of team they were and have embraced that. I believe Nate Lorton is learning what kind of team he has and they are also learning what kind of coach he is.
Dale Schuring was an assistant with Arthur-Lovington many years before taking over as head coach six years ago. Being that Lorton had never seen the Redskins before wearing the coach's hat this year, he has to have a window of time to work with.
It would also be good to see S-OV's players learn something from the players of a winning program like A-L, which starred several vocal leaders on the field, particularly Dan Bolsen. Bolsen wanted the playoffs this season more than anything, and his focus became playoffs, playoffs, playoffs, and his teammates followed. That's the sort of personality the Redskins will need next season, a critical year for Lorton and the Redskins.
All year long I have been posting polls and have found some interesting responses. One interesting response, one I hear away from the blog, too, is that many people blame the Redskins' poor records in recent years on the tough conference. That statement has some validity, but that excuse and every other one needs to be tossed out the window starting in this offseason.
Our parents and teachers often told us to not make excuses, and I believe that applies in high school football, too. Many believe it would be nice for the Redskins to get more players from Okaw Valley, and it would be, but Arthur-Lovington has proven they can win with only three players from Lovington. Many say they can't win in the conference, but it appears to simply be a matter of getting students out there to play, get them trained and filled with confidence, because smaller schools in the conference have been able to do much more.
Lovington loses, but hosts breast cancer benefit tonight
The Lovington Lady Panthers lost to Effingham St. Anthony last night, 16-25, 13-25.
Tonight the girls' team will be hosting a "Volley For The Cure" game, and all proceeds will go to the Susan G. Kramer Foundation. All breast cancer survivors will be allowed free entry.
Tonight the girls' team will be hosting a "Volley For The Cure" game, and all proceeds will go to the Susan G. Kramer Foundation. All breast cancer survivors will be allowed free entry.
Friday, October 17, 2008
S-OV loses big to St. Teresa
Sullivan-Okaw Valley lost to conference heavyweights St. Teresa tonight in a blowout, 56-6.
For pictures, quotes and more, see Wednesday's News-Progress.
For pictures, quotes and more, see Wednesday's News-Progress.
Arthur-Lovington is going to the playoffs!
The Arthur-Lovington Knights won tonight over Tri-County, 54-26, and are now automatically entering the playoffs.
It was their sixth win of the season against two losses, and six wins means an automatic playoff entry.
Now the Knights will be prepping for a tough game against undefeated Villa Grove next week.
See this week's News-Progress for pictures of the game, quotes and stats.
It was their sixth win of the season against two losses, and six wins means an automatic playoff entry.
Now the Knights will be prepping for a tough game against undefeated Villa Grove next week.
See this week's News-Progress for pictures of the game, quotes and stats.
Sullivan VB wins again
Sullivan came back to beat Clinton last night, 20-25, 25-20, 25-15.
It was their second straight conference victory after losing their first seven, and they will next play Tuesday at home against St. Teresa. It will be Senior Night.
It was their second straight conference victory after losing their first seven, and they will next play Tuesday at home against St. Teresa. It will be Senior Night.
Okaw Valley loses to red-hot Titans
Okaw Valley lost last night to red-hot Tri-County last night, 13-25, 11-25.
The Lady Timberwolves are now 4-6 in the conference and are playing at Cerro Gordo on Tuesday.
The Lady Timberwolves are now 4-6 in the conference and are playing at Cerro Gordo on Tuesday.
Lovington VB loses to Sangamon Valley
Lovington's volleyball team suffered a loss to Sangamon Valley last night, 19-25, 19-25. Their next match is Monday at Effingham-St. Anthony.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
OV VB wins over Windsor
The Okaw Valley Lady Timberwolves took home a win against Windor last night, 25-22, 20-25, 25-21.
A sudden boost in voting...
It seems to be unanimous, Dan Bolsen is awesome!!!!!
Or, at least it was unanimous yesterday, as the Arthur-Lovington linebacker got nine votes in one day for biggest Knights contributor of the year, and no one else got any!
And suddenly, everyone agreed that they had NO IDEA why Sullivan-Okaw Valley lost last weekend, as there were seven or so votes yesterday for that, to, again, none.
AMAZING!
Or, at least it was unanimous yesterday, as the Arthur-Lovington linebacker got nine votes in one day for biggest Knights contributor of the year, and no one else got any!
And suddenly, everyone agreed that they had NO IDEA why Sullivan-Okaw Valley lost last weekend, as there were seven or so votes yesterday for that, to, again, none.
AMAZING!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
OV VB loses close match
The Okaw Valley Lady Timberwolves suffered another loss last night, losing to Sangamon Valley in three close sets, 24-26, 25-22, 20-25. They are now 6-16 on the season.
The News-Progress didn't receive the information until after the print deadline for today's paper, so the story will be included in next week's paper.
The News-Progress didn't receive the information until after the print deadline for today's paper, so the story will be included in next week's paper.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Results From Monday Tournament
The Sullivan volleyball team won two and lost two on Monday in a tournament at Mount Zion, giving them fourth place.
Sullivan defeated Mount Zion (25-14, 26-24) and Okaw Valley (25-8, 25-15), but lost to Murphysboro (14-25, 18-25), and Mattoon (19-25, 15-25).
Also in the tournament, Okaw Valley lost all five matches they played in, losing to St. Theresa (14-25, 17-25), Mt. Zion (18-25, 20-25), Murphysboro (17-25, 7-25), Lemphier (25-23, 22-25, 14-16) and Sullivan.
Sullivan defeated Mount Zion (25-14, 26-24) and Okaw Valley (25-8, 25-15), but lost to Murphysboro (14-25, 18-25), and Mattoon (19-25, 15-25).
Also in the tournament, Okaw Valley lost all five matches they played in, losing to St. Theresa (14-25, 17-25), Mt. Zion (18-25, 20-25), Murphysboro (17-25, 7-25), Lemphier (25-23, 22-25, 14-16) and Sullivan.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Arthur-Lovington wins again
The Arthur-Lovington Knights won their fifth game of the season tonight, convincingly, beating East-Central 45-18.
For stats, quotes and the game story, see this week's News-Progress.
For stats, quotes and the game story, see this week's News-Progress.
Sullivan-Okaw Valley loses to Shelbyville
The Sullivan-Okaw Valley Redskins lost to the Shelbyville Rams tonight, 27-14.
The Redskins were unable to get their running game going tonight, running for only 71 yards on 3d carries.
For more game stories, stats and quotes, see Wednesday's News-Progress.
The Redskins were unable to get their running game going tonight, running for only 71 yards on 3d carries.
For more game stories, stats and quotes, see Wednesday's News-Progress.
A Little Help From My Friends
This is a nod to who has helped me the most this Fall sports season.
Being a one-man sports desk, I always need some help and I have gotten just that this year, and it shouldn't go unnoticed.
I have received helping hands from players, such as Lovington students Dan Bolsen and Lucas West. Dan has been helping each week to supply me with game story information about every contest I couldn't make, and Lucas has taken pictures of games I haven't been able to attend. Dan, a lineman for the team, is a great assistance to help me learn about what happened at games I was unable to see for myself.
Lucas, a star on the Lovington basketball team, has been taking time off the court to supply pictures of Arthur-Lovington games I have been unable to attend, and he's a crafty photographer.
For Sullivan-Okaw Valley games, Bob Hagen has been more than helpful, supplying stats and scores after games, along with game stories.
S-OV board member Chris White has supplied us with excellent information about every week of the JFL season, and that helped a great deal.
Thanks also to all the coaches. We, at the News-Progress, are trying to turn around the mentality about this paper, getting information faster so we can put it on the Web and so we can ensure we have it, and I thank the coaches who helped make this happen.
And you. Thank you for all your help, and I hope that we can make the News-Progress even more of a community newspaper, and a lot of that starts right here on the blog. Please, stir up some conversation around here and let's get some dialog goin' about local sports!
Being a one-man sports desk, I always need some help and I have gotten just that this year, and it shouldn't go unnoticed.
I have received helping hands from players, such as Lovington students Dan Bolsen and Lucas West. Dan has been helping each week to supply me with game story information about every contest I couldn't make, and Lucas has taken pictures of games I haven't been able to attend. Dan, a lineman for the team, is a great assistance to help me learn about what happened at games I was unable to see for myself.
Lucas, a star on the Lovington basketball team, has been taking time off the court to supply pictures of Arthur-Lovington games I have been unable to attend, and he's a crafty photographer.
For Sullivan-Okaw Valley games, Bob Hagen has been more than helpful, supplying stats and scores after games, along with game stories.
S-OV board member Chris White has supplied us with excellent information about every week of the JFL season, and that helped a great deal.
Thanks also to all the coaches. We, at the News-Progress, are trying to turn around the mentality about this paper, getting information faster so we can put it on the Web and so we can ensure we have it, and I thank the coaches who helped make this happen.
And you. Thank you for all your help, and I hope that we can make the News-Progress even more of a community newspaper, and a lot of that starts right here on the blog. Please, stir up some conversation around here and let's get some dialog goin' about local sports!
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Looking Ahead: Friday Football
In a Fall sports season that has been muddied by injuries and tough luck seasons, we still have Friday football to look forward to. And for the first time this season, both of the teams the News-Progress covers, the Knights and Redskins, are coming off of wins.
So, will each team win again this week?
The Sullivan-Okaw Valley Redskins are no doubt excited. After a lot of hard work and enduring some grueling losses, it has appeared recently, ESPECIALLY last week against Monticello, that they have discovered how to move the ball.
They ran the ball for 245 yards this past week on 46 attempts, and they had the defense perplexed as to who was getting the ball, as four backs had 30 yards or more on the ground.
Coach Nate Lorton likes to keep the defense (and the sports reporter!) guessing.
This running game also opens up for a potent passing attack, especially since quarterback Tyler Frerichs can take off with such bursts of speed when receivers aren't open. He had 93 yards last week, including a running play where he burnt the defense for a 60-yard touchdown run at the start of the game.
It's been fun to watch these Redskins advance. Well, it wasn't much fun at first, but it's fun to look back and compare to weeks 1, 2 & 3. Lorton is a coach who isn't about flash, he's about x's and o's and well-executed plays, which usually translates to an effective ground game, and it will always take a while for a team to learn a playbook and for a coach to get comfortable in his setting, and it's obvious that has happened here.
Now, against winless Shelbyville, this game is for the Redskins' taking, but they have to take it. With the game away at Shelbyville, they won't have the hungry Homecoming crowd behind them and now the Rams will be the ones fighting for their first win of the year.
As for the Arthur-Lovington Knights, they aren't going to beat you with strength, but they will with passion. This team has the spunk and heart that every coach dreams of. This spunk adds up to a LOT of yards each week on offense. Last week the team had a very potent and freakishly balanced attack, 203 yards on the ground and 205 in the air, and I see them on a fast track to the playoffs, but they have to stay on track.
They will go up against East Central this week, a team with a bad record (1-5) and even worse point total, scoring 68 on the season while allowing 198, but A-L coach Dale Schuring knows that anything can happen, and he doesn't want to see his team go in unprepared. I have a good feeling about this game, though, after talking to Schuring and team captain Dan Bolsen, and I know that what they will need is integrity and this team has just that.
So, will each team win again this week?
The Sullivan-Okaw Valley Redskins are no doubt excited. After a lot of hard work and enduring some grueling losses, it has appeared recently, ESPECIALLY last week against Monticello, that they have discovered how to move the ball.
They ran the ball for 245 yards this past week on 46 attempts, and they had the defense perplexed as to who was getting the ball, as four backs had 30 yards or more on the ground.
Coach Nate Lorton likes to keep the defense (and the sports reporter!) guessing.
This running game also opens up for a potent passing attack, especially since quarterback Tyler Frerichs can take off with such bursts of speed when receivers aren't open. He had 93 yards last week, including a running play where he burnt the defense for a 60-yard touchdown run at the start of the game.
It's been fun to watch these Redskins advance. Well, it wasn't much fun at first, but it's fun to look back and compare to weeks 1, 2 & 3. Lorton is a coach who isn't about flash, he's about x's and o's and well-executed plays, which usually translates to an effective ground game, and it will always take a while for a team to learn a playbook and for a coach to get comfortable in his setting, and it's obvious that has happened here.
Now, against winless Shelbyville, this game is for the Redskins' taking, but they have to take it. With the game away at Shelbyville, they won't have the hungry Homecoming crowd behind them and now the Rams will be the ones fighting for their first win of the year.
As for the Arthur-Lovington Knights, they aren't going to beat you with strength, but they will with passion. This team has the spunk and heart that every coach dreams of. This spunk adds up to a LOT of yards each week on offense. Last week the team had a very potent and freakishly balanced attack, 203 yards on the ground and 205 in the air, and I see them on a fast track to the playoffs, but they have to stay on track.
They will go up against East Central this week, a team with a bad record (1-5) and even worse point total, scoring 68 on the season while allowing 198, but A-L coach Dale Schuring knows that anything can happen, and he doesn't want to see his team go in unprepared. I have a good feeling about this game, though, after talking to Schuring and team captain Dan Bolsen, and I know that what they will need is integrity and this team has just that.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Panthers soccer remains winless
The Lovington-Sullivan soccer team lost again tonight, 5-1 to Altamont, the number one-seeded team in their region.
Patrick Tomczewski scored the Panther's only goal.
For more about the game and other Panther's games from this week, see tomorrow's News-Progress.
Patrick Tomczewski scored the Panther's only goal.
For more about the game and other Panther's games from this week, see tomorrow's News-Progress.
Sullivan volleyball continues to struggle
The Sullivan Lady Redskins suffered another conference loss tonight, losing to Tuscola, 21-25, 17-25.
Each of those nine games have been within the conference. Their overall record is now at 8-11.
Each of those nine games have been within the conference. Their overall record is now at 8-11.
Lovington knocked out of conference tournament, OV advances
Lovington was knocked out of the Little Okaw Valley Conference Tournament last night after losing to Okaw Valley in two sets, 14-25, 22-25, and then to top-seeded Tri-County, 9-25, 17-25.
The team also lost setter Alyssa Yoder in the first match against OV to a leg injury.
Okaw Valley lost to Tri-County in their first match, 11-25, 25-23, 7-25, but advanced to the next round, today in Villa Grove, after their win over Lovington.
See tomorrow's paper for tonight's results, and also pictures, quotes and stats.
The team also lost setter Alyssa Yoder in the first match against OV to a leg injury.
Okaw Valley lost to Tri-County in their first match, 11-25, 25-23, 7-25, but advanced to the next round, today in Villa Grove, after their win over Lovington.
See tomorrow's paper for tonight's results, and also pictures, quotes and stats.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Under Pressure!
I'm sure that if you actually care about this, you will have read your fair share of articles and columns about this already, but I think it would also be unfair for me to quietly sliver away after the Cubs' humiliating three-game sweep they just suffered, knocking them out of the playoffs.
But, to start with a defense of myself, I never actually said they were going to win it all, and I never even guaranteed a series win over the Dodgers. Now, to continue with a blast at myself, I still entered this thing with a pessimistic view, which a lot of us Cubs fans did, and I still firmly believe that's why our Cubs lost.
Please don't tell me any junk about how they're professionals and they should be able to handle this, because they're also humans, and humans can only handle so much pressure. The Cubs infield had all the pressure in the world on them on Wednesday, and then they were in the hole.
This is the problem, Cubs fans didn't know how to handle being the favorite. We've ALWAYS been the underdogs, and now that we had some pride to carry, we didn't know how. Boston fans know how to carry pride, and so do Yankees, Cardinals and Angels fans, and this year Dodgers fans are just thrilled to even be in the playoffs. That's what worked for the Cubs in 2003 and what was sailing them through the playoffs, until a fan (irony????) slowed it all down, and then once the fans suddenly didn't have the Cubs' back, the Cubs infield booted the next ball and everything collapsed (SOUNDS FAMILIAR!!!!).
I'm not sure how this will work. Everyone is crying on their pillows right now saying, "this was supposed to be our year!!! WAHHHH!!!!!" But an attitude like that, one that believes it is hopeless, will only ruin what this could and would be, what I'm ready to call the Cubs' era, which would lead to another excellent season. The Cubs could very easily win 95+ games again next season, but then we'll be at the same spot next season, worrying worrying worrying, rather than CHEERING!!! Something's got to change.
It does matter who the Cubs sign and re-sign this offseason, but what matters even more this offseason is what kind of attitude their players and fans carry, optimism, pessimism, or realism. Realistically, the Cubs can't shake that "curse" until they and their fans somehow forget it.
I hope for some seasoned Cubs fans. Fans who learn not to expect too much, learn to root for their team even if they might get hurt in the end, walk in confidence about BOTH the season AND post season, and leave behind this disillusioned hope, something we fans are famous for. Throw hope out the window and replace it with confidence.
And, of course, I hope these Chicago Cubs learn a lesson, too, don't take it too seriously. Al Yellon, editor of my favorite sports blog, bleedcubbieblue.com, posed a good argument today. First, we need to model ourselves after the 2004 Red Sox, (especially now that the Cubs' front office is starting to spend like the Red Sox. The Yankees have shown us that dollars don't translate to world series wins, and we know that a ridiculously long championship drought may take some special actions.)
Yellon pointed out that the 2004 Red Sox team called themselves the Idiots, and they did everything they could to take the pressure off, which helped them win their first title in 86 years. Now, not too sure if Lou Piniella would be all about this idea, but the end justifies the means, right? And I'm SURE Carlos Zambrano would be ALL ABOUT this.
And, of couse, being idiots not the only recipe for success, but my only point is that the Cubs players need to find a way to take the pressure off, too.
That's all for now. See you in the playoffs again next season, Chicago, I will step out and make that prediction.
But, to start with a defense of myself, I never actually said they were going to win it all, and I never even guaranteed a series win over the Dodgers. Now, to continue with a blast at myself, I still entered this thing with a pessimistic view, which a lot of us Cubs fans did, and I still firmly believe that's why our Cubs lost.
Please don't tell me any junk about how they're professionals and they should be able to handle this, because they're also humans, and humans can only handle so much pressure. The Cubs infield had all the pressure in the world on them on Wednesday, and then they were in the hole.
This is the problem, Cubs fans didn't know how to handle being the favorite. We've ALWAYS been the underdogs, and now that we had some pride to carry, we didn't know how. Boston fans know how to carry pride, and so do Yankees, Cardinals and Angels fans, and this year Dodgers fans are just thrilled to even be in the playoffs. That's what worked for the Cubs in 2003 and what was sailing them through the playoffs, until a fan (irony????) slowed it all down, and then once the fans suddenly didn't have the Cubs' back, the Cubs infield booted the next ball and everything collapsed (SOUNDS FAMILIAR!!!!).
I'm not sure how this will work. Everyone is crying on their pillows right now saying, "this was supposed to be our year!!! WAHHHH!!!!!" But an attitude like that, one that believes it is hopeless, will only ruin what this could and would be, what I'm ready to call the Cubs' era, which would lead to another excellent season. The Cubs could very easily win 95+ games again next season, but then we'll be at the same spot next season, worrying worrying worrying, rather than CHEERING!!! Something's got to change.
It does matter who the Cubs sign and re-sign this offseason, but what matters even more this offseason is what kind of attitude their players and fans carry, optimism, pessimism, or realism. Realistically, the Cubs can't shake that "curse" until they and their fans somehow forget it.
I hope for some seasoned Cubs fans. Fans who learn not to expect too much, learn to root for their team even if they might get hurt in the end, walk in confidence about BOTH the season AND post season, and leave behind this disillusioned hope, something we fans are famous for. Throw hope out the window and replace it with confidence.
And, of course, I hope these Chicago Cubs learn a lesson, too, don't take it too seriously. Al Yellon, editor of my favorite sports blog, bleedcubbieblue.com, posed a good argument today. First, we need to model ourselves after the 2004 Red Sox, (especially now that the Cubs' front office is starting to spend like the Red Sox. The Yankees have shown us that dollars don't translate to world series wins, and we know that a ridiculously long championship drought may take some special actions.)
Yellon pointed out that the 2004 Red Sox team called themselves the Idiots, and they did everything they could to take the pressure off, which helped them win their first title in 86 years. Now, not too sure if Lou Piniella would be all about this idea, but the end justifies the means, right? And I'm SURE Carlos Zambrano would be ALL ABOUT this.
And, of couse, being idiots not the only recipe for success, but my only point is that the Cubs players need to find a way to take the pressure off, too.
That's all for now. See you in the playoffs again next season, Chicago, I will step out and make that prediction.
Friday, October 3, 2008
A-L wins easily over South Piatt
The Athur-Lovington Knights remembered how to play hard tonight and handed it to South Piatt, 41-13.
The defense was extremely stellar, coach Dale Schuring said, allowing only one offensive touchdown, as South Piatt's other one was scored on a fumble recovery.
The defense was extremely stellar, coach Dale Schuring said, allowing only one offensive touchdown, as South Piatt's other one was scored on a fumble recovery.
Come on, Redskins fans, make some noise!!! Redskins win, 35-28
The Sullivan-Okaw Valley Redskins won tonight against Monticello, 35-28, winning for the first time this season and snapping a 35-game losing streak.
The game was for the most part one sided, as it was 35-14 at the half, but then the Redskins let up in the fourth quarter and the Sages took advantage and made things a little bit scary, but S-OV held on in the end.
For the game story, pictures, quotes and stats, check this Wednesday's News-Progress.
The game was for the most part one sided, as it was 35-14 at the half, but then the Redskins let up in the fourth quarter and the Sages took advantage and made things a little bit scary, but S-OV held on in the end.
For the game story, pictures, quotes and stats, check this Wednesday's News-Progress.
Lovington VB team sweeps OV
The Lady Panthers showed they can play well even without their 6'3 middle hitter, Ruthie Wheelock, as they beat Okaw Valley in a close one last night, 29-27, 26-24.
For more of the game story and quotes and more, see Wednesday's News-Progress.
For more of the game story and quotes and more, see Wednesday's News-Progress.
Sullivan VB loses fifth straight
The Sullivan Lady Redskins continued to struggle against their conference, losing to Meridian last night in two sets, 25-20, 26-24.
For more about the game and quotes from coach Heather Lindenmeyer, see Wednesday's News-Progress.
For more about the game and quotes from coach Heather Lindenmeyer, see Wednesday's News-Progress.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
CHEER up, Cubs fans! Come on!!!
I must admit that I'm a little bit ashamed of myself.
Last night my editor and I sat back in our chairs for a little bit to chat about the baseball playoffs. We Cubs fans get to have our eyes light up at this conversation only once every so often, and this year it is totally out of the ordinary, since it's the second year in a row. You would think my excitement would have been bursting forth, that I would have been blowing up balloons, throwing confetti in the air and renting a pony or two, proclaiming a Cubs World Series already after their 97 win (!!!!) season.
But no. I sat back in my chair with a blank face, folded arms and a calm voice. When asked how I felt about the Cubs being in (she knows I'm a fan), I said, "eh, I'm just trying to not get too carried away, because it is the Cubs."
I realized my shame a few hours later when roughly 42,000 people with the same sentiment filled Wrigley last night. I've seen more electricity in a cold regular season game in May against the Pittsburgh Pirates. It took only a half inning for the announcers to catch on, saying "it almost seems these fans are only hoping they don't mess up!" and they were right.
The producers knew the story line here, a bunch of bitter, scared fans, too scared to cheer on their "beloved" Cubbies. We made an embarrassment of ourselves last night, Cubs nation, myself included, but let me say this: It has to stop there.
Where were all those crazed (or, idiotic) Cubs fans? You know at least one, too, the ones that have three tattered jersies from three decades, six worn out hats, and a dog named Ernie, a cat named Ryno, a bird named Sosa, and two children, Wrigley (girl) and Caray (boy). And nevermind he got fired from 7/11 yesterday, the biggest tragedy on his mind was the blown save by Kerry Wood later that night.
Where was that guy??? We could have used him in the fifth inning when Ryan Dempster was unable to find the strike zone and had a look of panic in his eyes! It appeared as though he was looking in the stands for his mother. I surely wasn't the only one who saw some sort of tragedy coming off the bat of James Loney, but no one in the stands did anything to try to stop it, like, oh say, cheer. They just hoped it wouldn't happen.
Why are we panicking, Cubs fans? First of all (and this is a big first, believe me, it took a long time for me to understand this, too), but this is baseball. It is a GAME played with a stick and a ball created (maybe) by Abner Doubleday in 1839 (the creator is still not proven). Point being, breathe a little bit. If the Cubs win this season, it'll be nice but your life won't really be any better unless you own stock in the Cubs, which you likely don't. I know you want to SHOVE IT IN COUSIN RICKY'S FACE, that STUPID CARDINALS FAN!!!!! ... but come on, that's kind of silly.
And if they lose, your life won't be any worse, unless you are too attached. If you are, then detach yourself just a bit.
OK, now that we have that out of the way, what happens if they lose this season? Will this all-star lineup disassemble? This isn't the Florida Marlins we're talking about, and these aren't the cheap Cubs of old. They have a their core players - and coach - locked up for a while:
• Carlos Zambrano (through 2012)
• Aramis Ramirez (2011)
• Alfonso Soriano (2014!)
• Derrek Lee (2010)
• Fukudome (2011 hahaha)
• Dempster (2008, OK, so there's one)
I guess it would be unfair for me to not mention that Kerry Wood and Tim Harden are also free agents this offseason, but these Cubs are different than your dad's Cubs and even your older brother's Cubs. After they watched the financial success begin to change hands to their crosstown rivals after the White Sox won the World Series in 2006, they realized that Cubs fans no longer were no longer OK with their team being lovable losers, they wanted a championship team and weren't going to buy tickets, jersies, hats or dogs named Ernie until happened.
This is no time to panic, Cubs fans, this is the time to embrace your team. The Cubs aren't as much playing against the Dodgers tonight as they are against a mindset, not the one that is in their own minds, but what's in your mind. To the many Cubs fans who have already said after one loss, 'IT'S OVER!!!!!" leaving the players to wonder where there beloved fans are, grow up and support your team.
Last night my editor and I sat back in our chairs for a little bit to chat about the baseball playoffs. We Cubs fans get to have our eyes light up at this conversation only once every so often, and this year it is totally out of the ordinary, since it's the second year in a row. You would think my excitement would have been bursting forth, that I would have been blowing up balloons, throwing confetti in the air and renting a pony or two, proclaiming a Cubs World Series already after their 97 win (!!!!) season.
But no. I sat back in my chair with a blank face, folded arms and a calm voice. When asked how I felt about the Cubs being in (she knows I'm a fan), I said, "eh, I'm just trying to not get too carried away, because it is the Cubs."
I realized my shame a few hours later when roughly 42,000 people with the same sentiment filled Wrigley last night. I've seen more electricity in a cold regular season game in May against the Pittsburgh Pirates. It took only a half inning for the announcers to catch on, saying "it almost seems these fans are only hoping they don't mess up!" and they were right.
The producers knew the story line here, a bunch of bitter, scared fans, too scared to cheer on their "beloved" Cubbies. We made an embarrassment of ourselves last night, Cubs nation, myself included, but let me say this: It has to stop there.
Where were all those crazed (or, idiotic) Cubs fans? You know at least one, too, the ones that have three tattered jersies from three decades, six worn out hats, and a dog named Ernie, a cat named Ryno, a bird named Sosa, and two children, Wrigley (girl) and Caray (boy). And nevermind he got fired from 7/11 yesterday, the biggest tragedy on his mind was the blown save by Kerry Wood later that night.
Where was that guy??? We could have used him in the fifth inning when Ryan Dempster was unable to find the strike zone and had a look of panic in his eyes! It appeared as though he was looking in the stands for his mother. I surely wasn't the only one who saw some sort of tragedy coming off the bat of James Loney, but no one in the stands did anything to try to stop it, like, oh say, cheer. They just hoped it wouldn't happen.
Why are we panicking, Cubs fans? First of all (and this is a big first, believe me, it took a long time for me to understand this, too), but this is baseball. It is a GAME played with a stick and a ball created (maybe) by Abner Doubleday in 1839 (the creator is still not proven). Point being, breathe a little bit. If the Cubs win this season, it'll be nice but your life won't really be any better unless you own stock in the Cubs, which you likely don't. I know you want to SHOVE IT IN COUSIN RICKY'S FACE, that STUPID CARDINALS FAN!!!!! ... but come on, that's kind of silly.
And if they lose, your life won't be any worse, unless you are too attached. If you are, then detach yourself just a bit.
OK, now that we have that out of the way, what happens if they lose this season? Will this all-star lineup disassemble? This isn't the Florida Marlins we're talking about, and these aren't the cheap Cubs of old. They have a their core players - and coach - locked up for a while:
• Carlos Zambrano (through 2012)
• Aramis Ramirez (2011)
• Alfonso Soriano (2014!)
• Derrek Lee (2010)
• Fukudome (2011 hahaha)
• Dempster (2008, OK, so there's one)
I guess it would be unfair for me to not mention that Kerry Wood and Tim Harden are also free agents this offseason, but these Cubs are different than your dad's Cubs and even your older brother's Cubs. After they watched the financial success begin to change hands to their crosstown rivals after the White Sox won the World Series in 2006, they realized that Cubs fans no longer were no longer OK with their team being lovable losers, they wanted a championship team and weren't going to buy tickets, jersies, hats or dogs named Ernie until happened.
This is no time to panic, Cubs fans, this is the time to embrace your team. The Cubs aren't as much playing against the Dodgers tonight as they are against a mindset, not the one that is in their own minds, but what's in your mind. To the many Cubs fans who have already said after one loss, 'IT'S OVER!!!!!" leaving the players to wonder where there beloved fans are, grow up and support your team.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Local teams in a dry spell
Winning isn't only fun for the ahtletes and the fans, it's also fun for the sports reporters.
It's nice to watch the kids have smiles on their faces. It's good to have a light, bouncy conversation with the coach, rather than one where I'm trying to find something nice to say and walking on egg shells with every word I say. It's also nice to write stories about wins, rather than losses.
But, sometimes games happen. The Sullivan Lady Redskins volleyball team have fallen a bit flat and have faced some tougher teams since the conference play has started. I have seen the Arthur-Lovington Knights football team hardly even compete against two of the top teams in the LOVC, which is bad for playoff aspirations, The Sullivan-Okaw Valley Redskins football team has had such a tough season and has played such a tough schedule that at this point a 48-20 loss is celebrated, and though the Lovington Lady Panthers were raising eyebrows everywhere with an unexpected 8-3 start and it looked like they could only get better, they lost their premier player to a leg injury and have since gone 1-3.
Tough luck for a tough team.
The other hard thing is that you start to get attached to these teams. You end up rooting for each team and when they win, it's good, and when not, it's bad. I nod my head in approval when the Okaw Valley Lady Timberwolves volleyball team when they slam down a spike for a score, and cringe with the best of them when they misfire a serve.
I love this position because it's fun to watch sporting events and get paid for it, and I just hope these teams can break out of their funks and make things even MORE fun.
It's nice to watch the kids have smiles on their faces. It's good to have a light, bouncy conversation with the coach, rather than one where I'm trying to find something nice to say and walking on egg shells with every word I say. It's also nice to write stories about wins, rather than losses.
But, sometimes games happen. The Sullivan Lady Redskins volleyball team have fallen a bit flat and have faced some tougher teams since the conference play has started. I have seen the Arthur-Lovington Knights football team hardly even compete against two of the top teams in the LOVC, which is bad for playoff aspirations, The Sullivan-Okaw Valley Redskins football team has had such a tough season and has played such a tough schedule that at this point a 48-20 loss is celebrated, and though the Lovington Lady Panthers were raising eyebrows everywhere with an unexpected 8-3 start and it looked like they could only get better, they lost their premier player to a leg injury and have since gone 1-3.
Tough luck for a tough team.
The other hard thing is that you start to get attached to these teams. You end up rooting for each team and when they win, it's good, and when not, it's bad. I nod my head in approval when the Okaw Valley Lady Timberwolves volleyball team when they slam down a spike for a score, and cringe with the best of them when they misfire a serve.
I love this position because it's fun to watch sporting events and get paid for it, and I just hope these teams can break out of their funks and make things even MORE fun.
Sullivan keeps on making new ground in cross country
The Sullivan cross country boys' team placed second at a quadrangular meet yesterday at Central A&M, and the girls team placed third.
The boys' team scored a 45, behind Taylorville's 32 and ahead of Lincoln's 54 and Central A&M forfeited as they did not have enough participants to score.
The girls placed third with a 71, behind Central A&M's 25 and Taylorville's 42, and ahead of 81 by Lincoln.
See this week's News-Progress for more about the event.
The boys' team scored a 45, behind Taylorville's 32 and ahead of Lincoln's 54 and Central A&M forfeited as they did not have enough participants to score.
The girls placed third with a 71, behind Central A&M's 25 and Taylorville's 42, and ahead of 81 by Lincoln.
See this week's News-Progress for more about the event.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)