On Saturday, December 5th Superbowl games will be played a different locations across the state. Below you will find information essential to successfully covering these games. As always please email or call me if you have questions or concerns.
Eastern Mass. Superbowls - http://www.miaa.net/Superbowls-2009-East.pdf
· Parking Map - http://www.miaa.net/gillette-parking-map.pdf
· Additional Information - http://www.miaa.net/Superbowl-flyer-2009.pdf
For all games at Gillette Stadium, members of the media should park in lot 6 and enter the stadium through the Media Will Call entrance. The media parking lot is highlighted in pink and the entrance is circled in pink as indicated on the map linked above. Print media (including on-line publications) shall sign in using their own company credentials. Television and radio members need to present either their yearly membership pass or a signed and approved MIAA contract.
· Individual Event Contract - http://www.miaa.net/WB19-MediaAgree.pdf
· Member School Media Waiver - http://www.miaa.net/WB21-MediaWaiv.pdf
Television stations wishing to use footage taken by Kraft productions must bring their own DV Cam or Beta SP stock. Please note that once approved by the MIAA, all television and radio stations need to check in with Jeff Cournoyer, jeffco@patriots.com only if they have NOT already done so.
For all games at Bentley University:
Print media (including on-line publications) shall sign in using their own company credentials. Television and radio members need to present either their yearly membership pass or a signed and approved MIAA contract.
· Individual Event Contract - http://www.miaa.net/WB19-MediaAgree.pdf
· Member School Media Waiver - http://www.miaa.net/WB21-MediaWaiv.pdf
Central Mass. Superbowls - http://www.miaa.net/Superbowls-2009-Central.pdf
· Tournament Director – Jim Bergenholtz, 508-269-3286
Central Mass. Superbowls - http://www.miaa.net/Superbowls-2009-West.pdf
· Tournament Director – Joe Doyle, 413-441-5338
Friday, December 4, 2009
Thursday, December 3, 2009
O'Bryant gets the job done
By Amara Grautski, Globe Correspondent | November 27, 2009
Thanksgiving was a great day for stripes.
As the final seconds ticked off the clock, a sea of Tigers and Bengals fans flooded the field at English High School, even though the followers of the Boston South teams are usually at odds.
O’Bryant’s 6-2 win sent Latin Academy packing and catapulted Brighton (4-6, 4-1) into the playoffs.
O’Bryant (8-2) had nothing to gain - it couldn’t earn a playoff berth even with a victory - but coach Kevin Gadson seemed determined to put another mark in the win column and prove any naysayers wrong.
“Our record speaks for itself,’’ Gadson said. “We don’t have any control over who goes [to the playoffs]. We just want to win every game.’’
O’Bryant set the tone early, with quarterback Omari Alfred and running back Chandler Ransom teaming up to move the ball 70 yards on the ground on the first drive of the game. It culminated in a 5-yard touchdown run by Ransom to put the Tigers on top, 6-0.
“We just have to make our moves, and follow our blocks, and stick together,’’ said Ransom. “We’ve just had this relationship and just bonded well, and it carried out well throughout the whole season.’’
There were only four minutes remaining in the first quarter when the O’Bryant defense went to work - and it never relented. Latin Academy (8-3) was held to only 2 yards before halftime.
“Defense comes from the heart, and we’ve been preaching it the last two years, and they really played a good defensive season,’’ Gadson said. “Although we have a couple losses, they really played defense pretty good outside of two games. We expected it today.’’
The Dragons threatened in the third quarter, marching 47 yards on their first drive. The burst seemed promising, but quarterback Justin Miles failed to connect with Anthony DePina in the back corner of the end zone on fourth down.
The teams traded turnovers before the quarter came to a close; Latin Academy fumbled twice and Alfred threw an interception to Dylan Warfield for the second time in the game.
Thanksgiving was a great day for stripes.
As the final seconds ticked off the clock, a sea of Tigers and Bengals fans flooded the field at English High School, even though the followers of the Boston South teams are usually at odds.
O’Bryant’s 6-2 win sent Latin Academy packing and catapulted Brighton (4-6, 4-1) into the playoffs.
O’Bryant (8-2) had nothing to gain - it couldn’t earn a playoff berth even with a victory - but coach Kevin Gadson seemed determined to put another mark in the win column and prove any naysayers wrong.
“Our record speaks for itself,’’ Gadson said. “We don’t have any control over who goes [to the playoffs]. We just want to win every game.’’
O’Bryant set the tone early, with quarterback Omari Alfred and running back Chandler Ransom teaming up to move the ball 70 yards on the ground on the first drive of the game. It culminated in a 5-yard touchdown run by Ransom to put the Tigers on top, 6-0.
“We just have to make our moves, and follow our blocks, and stick together,’’ said Ransom. “We’ve just had this relationship and just bonded well, and it carried out well throughout the whole season.’’
There were only four minutes remaining in the first quarter when the O’Bryant defense went to work - and it never relented. Latin Academy (8-3) was held to only 2 yards before halftime.
“Defense comes from the heart, and we’ve been preaching it the last two years, and they really played a good defensive season,’’ Gadson said. “Although we have a couple losses, they really played defense pretty good outside of two games. We expected it today.’’
The Dragons threatened in the third quarter, marching 47 yards on their first drive. The burst seemed promising, but quarterback Justin Miles failed to connect with Anthony DePina in the back corner of the end zone on fourth down.
The teams traded turnovers before the quarter came to a close; Latin Academy fumbled twice and Alfred threw an interception to Dylan Warfield for the second time in the game.
Positioned for success
Wherever he’s needed, Jets’ Amodeo is ready
By Evan MacDonald, Globe Correspondent | December 1, 2009
East Boston coach John Sousa said that when his team needs to plug a hole, he looks to his Band-Aid.
But he’s not referring to an adhesive bandage. He’s talking about senior Brandon Amodeo, his do-it-all workhorse who is fourth in Division 4 with 108 points this season.
During his career, Amodeo has seen time at running back, fullback, quarterback, cornerback, and linebacker.
“I think it’s an honor for [Sousa] to trust me like that,’’ Amodeo said. “I would never say no to him, so whatever position he wants to play, I’ll play.’’
Amodeo’s 16 touchdowns are a major reason the Jets (9-1) are set to face Bristol-Plymouth tonight at Taunton High in the Division 4 semifinals.
And as the Jets practiced on the field outside Sartori Stadium last Saturday, Sousa was still looking for different ways to use Amodeo. In the brisk morning air, Amodeo was booming punts as if he’d been the team’s regular punter for years.
“On Mondays, we practice punting the ball, and he’s the best,’’ Sousa said. “So I said to Brandon, ‘Do you think you can sell 50/50 raffle tickets at halftime, too?’ ’’
Sousa said he uses Amodeo at so many positions out of necessity. As a junior, Amodeo was the team’s quarterback until current signal-caller Troy Williams was ready to take the reins. He was then rotated between positions in the backfield, before finally settling in at halfback.
Amodeo was also a cornerback for two-plus years before an injury left a hole at linebacker in the Jets’ defense. Amodeo is slightly undersized for the position - he’s generously listed at 5 feet 10 inches and 190 pounds - but he has stepped in to fill the void.
Sousa said the transition to linebacker has been seamless because Amodeo is such an intelligent player.
“He’s very smart out there,’’ Sousa said. “He knows the formations, and he knows the plays. He’s a good little linebacker.’’
Amodeo isn’t just smart on the field; he’s an honor roll student and wants to attend college, where he hopes to study civil engineering. He also runs track during the spring.
Sousa said the way Amodeo carries himself, on and off the field, is what led to him being selected as a team captain this season.
“He’s a good kid, he works hard, and he sets a fine example for the football team,’’ Sousa said. “He’s a football player that I want all our other players to emulate.’’
Amodeo said he tries to do all that he can to be an example for his teammates, including being a vocal leader in the locker room.
“Every game, before the game, someone gives a little speech,’’ Amodeo said. “I just try to say something to psych my team up.’’
Amodeo began playing football for East Boston Pop Warner when he was 7. He was always a quarterback until his junior year in high school.
It wasn’t until his sophomore year that Sousa really started to take notice of Amodeo. When the team’s starting cornerback went down with an injury, Amodeo was asked to step in and produce.
“To tell you the truth, I didn’t really think he could do it, because he’s more of a linebacker type,’’ Sousa said. “But he had four interceptions as a sophomore, and I said, ‘Son of a gun, great job.’ A little sophomore kid, getting out there. Because he was smart, he understood.’’
Sousa said one thing that sets Amodeo apart is his knack for making a big play when the Jets need it most. He noted the Jets’ Nov. 13 win over Madison Park, when Amodeo broke off a 35-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. The score increased the Jets’ lead to 22-0 in a game they would go on to win, 29-0, clinching the Boston North title.
A Super Bowl win would be especially sweet for the Jets this year, because Sousa is set to retire after 15 seasons at the helm. Sousa is an East Boston alumnus who captained the 1968 Jets to an undefeated season, and he said it would be great to end his career with a championship.
“We’ve got 18 seniors,’’ Sousa said. “I said to them, ‘I’m going out with you, boys! This is our last year, so let’s go!’ ’’
Amodeo, similarly, would like a championship, both for himself and his coach. He was a starting cornerback two years ago when the Jets lost to Greater Lawrence, 19-6, in the Division 3A Super Bowl.
“To go undefeated [in 2007] and then to lose in the Super Bowl during my sophomore year was the hardest thing to happen to me, ever, in football,’’ Amodeo said. “I don’t know if I’m going to play football in college, so to win the Super Bowl would be the best thing that could happen to me.’’
By Evan MacDonald, Globe Correspondent | December 1, 2009
East Boston coach John Sousa said that when his team needs to plug a hole, he looks to his Band-Aid.
But he’s not referring to an adhesive bandage. He’s talking about senior Brandon Amodeo, his do-it-all workhorse who is fourth in Division 4 with 108 points this season.
During his career, Amodeo has seen time at running back, fullback, quarterback, cornerback, and linebacker.
“I think it’s an honor for [Sousa] to trust me like that,’’ Amodeo said. “I would never say no to him, so whatever position he wants to play, I’ll play.’’
Amodeo’s 16 touchdowns are a major reason the Jets (9-1) are set to face Bristol-Plymouth tonight at Taunton High in the Division 4 semifinals.
And as the Jets practiced on the field outside Sartori Stadium last Saturday, Sousa was still looking for different ways to use Amodeo. In the brisk morning air, Amodeo was booming punts as if he’d been the team’s regular punter for years.
“On Mondays, we practice punting the ball, and he’s the best,’’ Sousa said. “So I said to Brandon, ‘Do you think you can sell 50/50 raffle tickets at halftime, too?’ ’’
Sousa said he uses Amodeo at so many positions out of necessity. As a junior, Amodeo was the team’s quarterback until current signal-caller Troy Williams was ready to take the reins. He was then rotated between positions in the backfield, before finally settling in at halfback.
Amodeo was also a cornerback for two-plus years before an injury left a hole at linebacker in the Jets’ defense. Amodeo is slightly undersized for the position - he’s generously listed at 5 feet 10 inches and 190 pounds - but he has stepped in to fill the void.
Sousa said the transition to linebacker has been seamless because Amodeo is such an intelligent player.
“He’s very smart out there,’’ Sousa said. “He knows the formations, and he knows the plays. He’s a good little linebacker.’’
Amodeo isn’t just smart on the field; he’s an honor roll student and wants to attend college, where he hopes to study civil engineering. He also runs track during the spring.
Sousa said the way Amodeo carries himself, on and off the field, is what led to him being selected as a team captain this season.
“He’s a good kid, he works hard, and he sets a fine example for the football team,’’ Sousa said. “He’s a football player that I want all our other players to emulate.’’
Amodeo said he tries to do all that he can to be an example for his teammates, including being a vocal leader in the locker room.
“Every game, before the game, someone gives a little speech,’’ Amodeo said. “I just try to say something to psych my team up.’’
Amodeo began playing football for East Boston Pop Warner when he was 7. He was always a quarterback until his junior year in high school.
It wasn’t until his sophomore year that Sousa really started to take notice of Amodeo. When the team’s starting cornerback went down with an injury, Amodeo was asked to step in and produce.
“To tell you the truth, I didn’t really think he could do it, because he’s more of a linebacker type,’’ Sousa said. “But he had four interceptions as a sophomore, and I said, ‘Son of a gun, great job.’ A little sophomore kid, getting out there. Because he was smart, he understood.’’
Sousa said one thing that sets Amodeo apart is his knack for making a big play when the Jets need it most. He noted the Jets’ Nov. 13 win over Madison Park, when Amodeo broke off a 35-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. The score increased the Jets’ lead to 22-0 in a game they would go on to win, 29-0, clinching the Boston North title.
A Super Bowl win would be especially sweet for the Jets this year, because Sousa is set to retire after 15 seasons at the helm. Sousa is an East Boston alumnus who captained the 1968 Jets to an undefeated season, and he said it would be great to end his career with a championship.
“We’ve got 18 seniors,’’ Sousa said. “I said to them, ‘I’m going out with you, boys! This is our last year, so let’s go!’ ’’
Amodeo, similarly, would like a championship, both for himself and his coach. He was a starting cornerback two years ago when the Jets lost to Greater Lawrence, 19-6, in the Division 3A Super Bowl.
“To go undefeated [in 2007] and then to lose in the Super Bowl during my sophomore year was the hardest thing to happen to me, ever, in football,’’ Amodeo said. “I don’t know if I’m going to play football in college, so to win the Super Bowl would be the best thing that could happen to me.’’
Playoff Football: East Boston, Brighton, Northeast advance
By Amara Grautski, Globe Corrspondent | December 2, 2009
They still remember 2007.
Two seasons ago, East Boston rode an 11-0 streak into the Super Bowl, where the Jets were met with a stark reality.
“We were on a high horse,’’ said Jets senior Michael Lockley. “We came into Gillette Stadium and thought everything was going to be great, and we came out with a [19-6] loss.’’
Last night, East Boston moved one step closer to making that game an evanescent memory, defeating Bristol-Plymouth, 35-8, in a Division 4 semifinal at Taunton High.
Lockley veered with finesse through holes opened up by his offensive line. Brandon Campbell kicked Craftsmen defenders off his feet as he powered for a 12-yard touchdown run. And at one point, quarterback Troy Williams pirouetted between two defenders on a 20-yard scamper.
East Boston’s explosive rushing game collected 100 yards in the first half and doubled that amount in the second. The Jets’ defense was also hungry, forcing two interceptions and a fumble by B-P quarterback Evan Cabral, who completed just one pass for 10 yards.
“This team is probably the most talented, skillful team I’ve had since I’ve coached,’’ said East Boston coach John Sousa. “They really wanted to get to the Super Bowl. They really wanted this game and they showed the desire out there. They didn’t want to go down.’’
East Boston (10-1) got two rushing touchdowns in the first quarter, by Lockley and Campbell, to take a 14-0 lead into halftime. Lockley carried the offense in the first half with 53 yards on 10 carries.
The Jets poured it on with back-to-back touchdowns in the third quarter. Brandon Amodeo sprinted down the sideline for 41 yards, and after senior Matt Wyatt picked off Cabral on B-P’s first play of the quarter, Lockley ran for a 14-yard TD to give East Boston a 28-0 cushion.
Bristol-Plymouth (8-3) finally got on the board early in the fourth. Cabral capitalized on a fumble recovery by running 54 yards on the next play. He also rushed for the 2-point conversion.
East Boston answered right back with a 35-yard TD run by Amodeo. Victor Correa kicked the extra point to put the finishing touch on a well-crafted attack.
The squad that remembers 2007 never relented. And it’s set on making sure history doesn’t repeat itself.
“All I thought was win,’’ said Lockley. “You’ve got to win with the heart that you’ve got and put it all out on the field.’’
A championship would be special for Sousa, who is retiring after the season. There’s still work to be done, a matchup with Whittier Saturday at Bentley University.
“For his last year, to go out with a Super Bowl would be great,’’ Lockley said. “And that’s what the team is trying to do.’’
Division 4A
Brighton 8, Tri-County 6 - Brighton didn’t get on the field until 30 minutes before kickoff, but the Bengals warmed up nicely in the sub-40 degree weather against Tri-County at Franklin High.
By the second quarter, Brighton had an 8-0 lead behind wing back Kevin DePina, who pummeled the Cougars for 100 yards on 11 carries. DePina’s biggest contribution was a 23-yard touchdown reception from Jonathan Rosa. DePina then rushed for a 2-point conversion, which was the difference and sent Brighton (5-6) into Saturday’s Division 4A title game against Northeast at Bentley University.
“We really had a good defensive effort,’’ said Brighton coach James Phillips. “Our linebackers, our defensive line played a tough, tough game.
“They wanted it here,’’ said Phillips, pointing to his heart. “It’s nothing special. They just wanted it more.’’
Led by Randy Hardy, Tri-County (8-4) fell short in the final minutes.
Hardy broke loose for a 30-yard run to bring the Cougars to the Brighton 9-yard line. But after three plays and two timeouts, there still was 1 yard to go.
On fourth and goal, Hardy punched it in to bring Tri-County to 8-6 with 2:13 remaining. But the Bengals defense made a huge stop on the 2-point conversion.
The stop served as validation of Brighton’s pride and perseverance in a sub-.500 season.
“[This season], we didn’t do what we have to do,’’ said DePina. “Today, we did what we had to do. We don’t care about no record.’’
Northeast 24, Marian 14 - With a trip to the Division 4A Super Bowl on the line, Northeast (7-5) defeated Marian (4-6) at Pierce Field in Arlington. The Golden Knights got things rolling in the first period, quarterback Donato Dipietrantonio falling across the goal line on fourth and 1.
The Mustangs fired right back, scoring on a short rush by Ben Kinsherf, and taking the lead on the extra point by Miguel Ortiz.
However, with only two seconds remaining in the first half and Northeast set up for what looked like a clock-killing rush, running back Bobby Novella fired a 43-yard touchdown pass to Raul Galdamez to send Northeast into the half leading, 12-7.
“I threw that play in four weeks ago and we tried it once and we fumbled, so tonight was nice to see it work for us,’’ said Northeast coach Don Heres.
The Golden Knights never looked back, dominating the third quarter. They drove 70 yards without attempting a pass, led by the running attack of Novella, Joey Ginepra, and Christian O’Leary. Ginepra caped the drive with a 15-yard TD rush, putting the game away.
“We bent tonight but we didn’t break,’’ said Heres. “It got a little scary, but we did enough to win.’’
They still remember 2007.
Two seasons ago, East Boston rode an 11-0 streak into the Super Bowl, where the Jets were met with a stark reality.
“We were on a high horse,’’ said Jets senior Michael Lockley. “We came into Gillette Stadium and thought everything was going to be great, and we came out with a [19-6] loss.’’
Last night, East Boston moved one step closer to making that game an evanescent memory, defeating Bristol-Plymouth, 35-8, in a Division 4 semifinal at Taunton High.
Lockley veered with finesse through holes opened up by his offensive line. Brandon Campbell kicked Craftsmen defenders off his feet as he powered for a 12-yard touchdown run. And at one point, quarterback Troy Williams pirouetted between two defenders on a 20-yard scamper.
East Boston’s explosive rushing game collected 100 yards in the first half and doubled that amount in the second. The Jets’ defense was also hungry, forcing two interceptions and a fumble by B-P quarterback Evan Cabral, who completed just one pass for 10 yards.
“This team is probably the most talented, skillful team I’ve had since I’ve coached,’’ said East Boston coach John Sousa. “They really wanted to get to the Super Bowl. They really wanted this game and they showed the desire out there. They didn’t want to go down.’’
East Boston (10-1) got two rushing touchdowns in the first quarter, by Lockley and Campbell, to take a 14-0 lead into halftime. Lockley carried the offense in the first half with 53 yards on 10 carries.
The Jets poured it on with back-to-back touchdowns in the third quarter. Brandon Amodeo sprinted down the sideline for 41 yards, and after senior Matt Wyatt picked off Cabral on B-P’s first play of the quarter, Lockley ran for a 14-yard TD to give East Boston a 28-0 cushion.
Bristol-Plymouth (8-3) finally got on the board early in the fourth. Cabral capitalized on a fumble recovery by running 54 yards on the next play. He also rushed for the 2-point conversion.
East Boston answered right back with a 35-yard TD run by Amodeo. Victor Correa kicked the extra point to put the finishing touch on a well-crafted attack.
The squad that remembers 2007 never relented. And it’s set on making sure history doesn’t repeat itself.
“All I thought was win,’’ said Lockley. “You’ve got to win with the heart that you’ve got and put it all out on the field.’’
A championship would be special for Sousa, who is retiring after the season. There’s still work to be done, a matchup with Whittier Saturday at Bentley University.
“For his last year, to go out with a Super Bowl would be great,’’ Lockley said. “And that’s what the team is trying to do.’’
Division 4A
Brighton 8, Tri-County 6 - Brighton didn’t get on the field until 30 minutes before kickoff, but the Bengals warmed up nicely in the sub-40 degree weather against Tri-County at Franklin High.
By the second quarter, Brighton had an 8-0 lead behind wing back Kevin DePina, who pummeled the Cougars for 100 yards on 11 carries. DePina’s biggest contribution was a 23-yard touchdown reception from Jonathan Rosa. DePina then rushed for a 2-point conversion, which was the difference and sent Brighton (5-6) into Saturday’s Division 4A title game against Northeast at Bentley University.
“We really had a good defensive effort,’’ said Brighton coach James Phillips. “Our linebackers, our defensive line played a tough, tough game.
“They wanted it here,’’ said Phillips, pointing to his heart. “It’s nothing special. They just wanted it more.’’
Led by Randy Hardy, Tri-County (8-4) fell short in the final minutes.
Hardy broke loose for a 30-yard run to bring the Cougars to the Brighton 9-yard line. But after three plays and two timeouts, there still was 1 yard to go.
On fourth and goal, Hardy punched it in to bring Tri-County to 8-6 with 2:13 remaining. But the Bengals defense made a huge stop on the 2-point conversion.
The stop served as validation of Brighton’s pride and perseverance in a sub-.500 season.
“[This season], we didn’t do what we have to do,’’ said DePina. “Today, we did what we had to do. We don’t care about no record.’’
Northeast 24, Marian 14 - With a trip to the Division 4A Super Bowl on the line, Northeast (7-5) defeated Marian (4-6) at Pierce Field in Arlington. The Golden Knights got things rolling in the first period, quarterback Donato Dipietrantonio falling across the goal line on fourth and 1.
The Mustangs fired right back, scoring on a short rush by Ben Kinsherf, and taking the lead on the extra point by Miguel Ortiz.
However, with only two seconds remaining in the first half and Northeast set up for what looked like a clock-killing rush, running back Bobby Novella fired a 43-yard touchdown pass to Raul Galdamez to send Northeast into the half leading, 12-7.
“I threw that play in four weeks ago and we tried it once and we fumbled, so tonight was nice to see it work for us,’’ said Northeast coach Don Heres.
The Golden Knights never looked back, dominating the third quarter. They drove 70 yards without attempting a pass, led by the running attack of Novella, Joey Ginepra, and Christian O’Leary. Ginepra caped the drive with a 15-yard TD rush, putting the game away.
“We bent tonight but we didn’t break,’’ said Heres. “It got a little scary, but we did enough to win.’’
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Allen Iverson signs with 76ers
By Herald Wire Services | Wednesday, December 2, 2009 | http://www.bostonherald.com | NBA Coverage
PHILADELPHIA — Allen Iverson [stats] is rejoining the Philadelphia 76ers [team stats].
Sixers president Ed Stefanski announced the signing Wednesday on the team’s Web site. Iverson is expected to make his debut Monday against the Denver Nuggets.
Stefanski says in a news release that the team felt "Allen was the best available free agent guard to help" after the injury to Lou Williams, who will miss up to eight weeks.
Iverson, his agent and business manager met with Stefanski, coach Eddie Jordan and two other members of the organization Monday.
The 37-year-old Iverson announced his retirement last week after an ill-fated stint with the Memphis Grizzlies. The 10-time All-Star was NBA MVP in 2001 when he led the Sixers to the NBA finals.
Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/basketball/other_nba/view.bg?articleid=1215993
PHILADELPHIA — Allen Iverson [stats] is rejoining the Philadelphia 76ers [team stats].
Sixers president Ed Stefanski announced the signing Wednesday on the team’s Web site. Iverson is expected to make his debut Monday against the Denver Nuggets.
Stefanski says in a news release that the team felt "Allen was the best available free agent guard to help" after the injury to Lou Williams, who will miss up to eight weeks.
Iverson, his agent and business manager met with Stefanski, coach Eddie Jordan and two other members of the organization Monday.
The 37-year-old Iverson announced his retirement last week after an ill-fated stint with the Memphis Grizzlies. The 10-time All-Star was NBA MVP in 2001 when he led the Sixers to the NBA finals.
Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/basketball/other_nba/view.bg?articleid=1215993
Friday, November 27, 2009
MIAA sets football playoffs
Posted by Bob Holmes, Globe Staff November 27, 2009
The MIAA announced the lineup for Tuesday's football semifinals.
Division 1: Billerica plays Everett at Lowell's Cawley Stadium at 7:45 p.m.; Brockton faces Xaverian at Weymouth at 7:45.
Division 1A: Gloucester and Westford will meet at 7:45 at Manning Field in Lynn; Needham will play at host Bridgewater-Raynham at 7:45.
Division 2: Dracut plays at host Reading at 7:45; Natick plays at Franklin at 7:45.
Division 2A: Masconomet will face Concord-Carlisle at Lowell at 5:15; Marshfield and Duxbury meet again, this time in Weymouth at 5:15.
Division 3: Rockland faces Marblehead in Lynn at 5:15; Bishop Feehan faces Dighton-Rehoboth at Taunton at 7:45.
Division 3A: Austin Prep plays Lynnfield at Reading at 5:15; Cohasset faces Holliston at Bridgewater-Raynham at 5:15.
Division 4: East Boston plays Bristol-Plymouth at Taunton at 5:15. Whittier earns a bye.
Division 4A: Marian plays Northeast at Arlington at 7:15; Brighton faces Tri-County at Franklin at 5:15.
The MIAA has released the schedule for Gilllette Stadium. Division 3A is at 9 a.m. followed in order by Div. 3 at 11 a.m., Div. 2A at 1:30, Div. 2 at 3:30, Div. 1 at 6, and Div. 1A at 8. Tickets at Gillette are $13 for adults, $10 for students. Division 4 and 4A will be played at Bentley
The MIAA announced the lineup for Tuesday's football semifinals.
Division 1: Billerica plays Everett at Lowell's Cawley Stadium at 7:45 p.m.; Brockton faces Xaverian at Weymouth at 7:45.
Division 1A: Gloucester and Westford will meet at 7:45 at Manning Field in Lynn; Needham will play at host Bridgewater-Raynham at 7:45.
Division 2: Dracut plays at host Reading at 7:45; Natick plays at Franklin at 7:45.
Division 2A: Masconomet will face Concord-Carlisle at Lowell at 5:15; Marshfield and Duxbury meet again, this time in Weymouth at 5:15.
Division 3: Rockland faces Marblehead in Lynn at 5:15; Bishop Feehan faces Dighton-Rehoboth at Taunton at 7:45.
Division 3A: Austin Prep plays Lynnfield at Reading at 5:15; Cohasset faces Holliston at Bridgewater-Raynham at 5:15.
Division 4: East Boston plays Bristol-Plymouth at Taunton at 5:15. Whittier earns a bye.
Division 4A: Marian plays Northeast at Arlington at 7:15; Brighton faces Tri-County at Franklin at 5:15.
The MIAA has released the schedule for Gilllette Stadium. Division 3A is at 9 a.m. followed in order by Div. 3 at 11 a.m., Div. 2A at 1:30, Div. 2 at 3:30, Div. 1 at 6, and Div. 1A at 8. Tickets at Gillette are $13 for adults, $10 for students. Division 4 and 4A will be played at Bentley
Iverson reconsidering as coaches Brown, Thompson line up to talk to him
dailypress.com
Staff, wire service reports
11:20 PM EST, November 26, 2009
According to reporter Stephen A. Smith, sources close to Allen Iverson are saying he's already having a change of heart after seeing some of the reaction around the league to his retirement announcement Wednesday.
"I think he just wants to feel wanted again," one of the sources said.
A couple of the notable reactions from around the league included the Heat's Dwyane Wade and the Nuggets' Carmelo Anthony.
"I'm No. 3. He made No. 3 cool," Wade told NBA.com. "He made crossovers cool. He did so much for the game as a pioneer. It's sad to see him think about retirement."
"It's tough -- just a messed-up way to go out like that," Anthony told The Denver Post.
Bobcats coach Larry Brown might try to talk Iverson out of retiring, the Charlotte Observer reported. Brown coached the former Bethel High star with the 76ers.
Also, Iverson's former Georgetown coach, the elder John Thompson, wants to talk with him. Thompson told ESPN.com's J.A. Adande he was "vehemently opposed" to Iverson retiring, "especially out of frustration."
Copyright © 2009, Newport News, Va., Daily Press
Staff, wire service reports
11:20 PM EST, November 26, 2009
According to reporter Stephen A. Smith, sources close to Allen Iverson are saying he's already having a change of heart after seeing some of the reaction around the league to his retirement announcement Wednesday.
"I think he just wants to feel wanted again," one of the sources said.
A couple of the notable reactions from around the league included the Heat's Dwyane Wade and the Nuggets' Carmelo Anthony.
"I'm No. 3. He made No. 3 cool," Wade told NBA.com. "He made crossovers cool. He did so much for the game as a pioneer. It's sad to see him think about retirement."
"It's tough -- just a messed-up way to go out like that," Anthony told The Denver Post.
Bobcats coach Larry Brown might try to talk Iverson out of retiring, the Charlotte Observer reported. Brown coached the former Bethel High star with the 76ers.
Also, Iverson's former Georgetown coach, the elder John Thompson, wants to talk with him. Thompson told ESPN.com's J.A. Adande he was "vehemently opposed" to Iverson retiring, "especially out of frustration."
Copyright © 2009, Newport News, Va., Daily Press
Allen Iverson retires from NBA
dailypress.com
By Nick Mathews
Daily Press
10:39 PM EST, November 25, 2009
Apparently, retirement is the answer for Allen Iverson.
For now anyway.
Iverson -- who starred on the Peninsula at Bethel High and with Boo Williams' AAU program and will one day be enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame -- announced his plans to retire from the NBA on Wednesday.
The decision -- published on stephena.com, the web site of syndicated radio personality and Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Stephen A. Smith -- comes after Iverson failed to sign with a team following his Nov. 17 release from the Memphis Grizzlies.
"I would like to announce my plans to retire from the National Basketball Association," wrote Iverson, a 10-time all-star, a four-time scoring champion and the 2001 NBA MVP. "I still have tremendous love for the game, the desire to play, and a whole lot left in my tank. I feel strongly that I can still compete at the highest level."
That bittersweet beginning to his statement appears to leave open the possibility of a short retirement, should a team be interested in signing him. But he contradicted those statements quickly.
"Stepping away from the game will allow me to spend quality time with my wife and kids," wrote Iverson, nicknamed "The Answer."
"This is a reward that far exceeds anything that I've ever achieved on the basketball court. I have prayed for this day, and I see it as my greatest gift."
Williams, who led Iverson and teammates to a 17-and-under AAU national title in 1992, isn't sure this is the end of Iverson's career. "Interesting," Williams said after being read Iverson's 415-word announcement. "It sounds like a guy that didn't want to retire.
"When you read that, you will say he will come back if the right option will present itself. But the question is, will the right option present itself?"
The 6-foot Iverson, who averaged 27.0 points during his NBA career (sixth-best all-time), starred for Georgetown, was the No. 1 overall pick by Philadelphia in 1996 and played 10 full seasons with the 76ers -- highlighted by the MVP award and an NBA Finals appearance in 2001. He was traded to Denver in 2006 and then to Detroit last November.
Iverson signed with the Grizzlies during the off-season but played in just three games before an indefinite leave of absence on Nov. 7 to deal with a personal issue. The 34-year-old guard played only three games with Memphis, all in California. He averaged 12.3 points and 22.3 minutes coming off the bench.
It was the second straight ugly ending for Iverson, who was unhappy last season playing for the Pistons. He was upset that Detroit coach Michael Curry and Memphis' Lionel Hollins used him as a reserve.
"There is no greater competitor I have been associated with," Williams said of Iverson. "I can't see him wanting to come off the bench. He didn't want to come off the bench as a little boy. That isn't changing."
Williams didn't like what he saw in the last couple of stops for Iverson.
"That was a fiasco in Detroit," Williams said. "And the Memphis thing was a miscommunication. I don't know what was expected from him. But they weren't on the same page. That's just me on the outside looking in."
After his release from Memphis, Iverson was considered by other teams, most seriously the New York Knicks. However, the Knicks passed on signing Iverson, leading to Wednesday's news.
"I have enjoyed 13 wonderful seasons in the NBA," Iverson wrote on the Web site, "and I am grateful."
If this is the end, Williams didn't see Wednesday as a sad day.
"Talk about a guy who had a great career," Williams said. "I think now he can move on. But, I think in his heart, he thinks he can still play on a day-to-day basis."
Coaches in the league agree with Williams that Iverson's career may continue.
"I think he still has something left to give some team out there," said George Karl, who coached Iverson in Denver. "If that's his decision, he'll go down in history, I think, as the greatest little guard ever to play the game of basketball.
"I was happy to have him for a couple years, and hopefully our paths will cross. But I have a sneaky feeling that somewhere along the way, an injury or a circumstance with a team will open that window back up."
Added Boston Celtics coach Doc Rivers: "I don't ever believe anyone retires until they get to the point they have to. He had a great career if it is true, but I still think he has more to offer."
While on the Peninsula, Iverson was a two-sport star. In his junior year, he led the Bruins to the 1992 Division 5 state football championship as a quarterback and safety, and to the 1993 Group AAA basketball title. The Associated Press named Iverson the Group AAA player of the year in both sports.
In the summer before his junior year, Iverson led Williams' team to a national title.
During the national tournament in Winston-Salem, N.C., Williams said that Iverson had three straight games in which he scored at least 30 points -- before halftime.
"That's going to be something I will remember for a long time," Williams said. "Of all the guys we've ever had, that is one of my fondest memories."
In his statement, Iverson looked back to the beginning of his career.
"To my high school coach, Michael Bailey, Coach John Thompson at Georgetown University, Coach Larry Brown (with the 76ers) and to all of my other coaches, teammates, administrators, owners and staff who've been a part of my career, thank you as well," he wrote.
"I'd like to give a special thanks to the people of Memphis. I never played a home game for your beloved Grizzlies, but I want you to know how much I appreciate the opportunity given me by a great owner in Michael Heisley, and the support of the city. I wish the Memphis Grizzlies' organization all of the success that the game has to offer.
"And finally, to the city of Philadelphia: I have wonderful memories of my days in a Sixers' uniform. To Philly fans, thank you. Your voice will always be music to my ears."
He closed: "God Bless all of you, Allen Iverson."
If this is the end for Iverson, it's not the one Williams expected. Nor wanted.
"I'm a little shocked," Williams said. "I'm a little disappointed that it ended the way it ended. He would have liked to end on a better note.
"But he can't be discouraged. He's had a great career."
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Copyright © 2009, Newport News, Va., Daily Press
By Nick Mathews
Daily Press
10:39 PM EST, November 25, 2009
Apparently, retirement is the answer for Allen Iverson.
For now anyway.
Iverson -- who starred on the Peninsula at Bethel High and with Boo Williams' AAU program and will one day be enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame -- announced his plans to retire from the NBA on Wednesday.
The decision -- published on stephena.com, the web site of syndicated radio personality and Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Stephen A. Smith -- comes after Iverson failed to sign with a team following his Nov. 17 release from the Memphis Grizzlies.
"I would like to announce my plans to retire from the National Basketball Association," wrote Iverson, a 10-time all-star, a four-time scoring champion and the 2001 NBA MVP. "I still have tremendous love for the game, the desire to play, and a whole lot left in my tank. I feel strongly that I can still compete at the highest level."
That bittersweet beginning to his statement appears to leave open the possibility of a short retirement, should a team be interested in signing him. But he contradicted those statements quickly.
"Stepping away from the game will allow me to spend quality time with my wife and kids," wrote Iverson, nicknamed "The Answer."
"This is a reward that far exceeds anything that I've ever achieved on the basketball court. I have prayed for this day, and I see it as my greatest gift."
Williams, who led Iverson and teammates to a 17-and-under AAU national title in 1992, isn't sure this is the end of Iverson's career. "Interesting," Williams said after being read Iverson's 415-word announcement. "It sounds like a guy that didn't want to retire.
"When you read that, you will say he will come back if the right option will present itself. But the question is, will the right option present itself?"
The 6-foot Iverson, who averaged 27.0 points during his NBA career (sixth-best all-time), starred for Georgetown, was the No. 1 overall pick by Philadelphia in 1996 and played 10 full seasons with the 76ers -- highlighted by the MVP award and an NBA Finals appearance in 2001. He was traded to Denver in 2006 and then to Detroit last November.
Iverson signed with the Grizzlies during the off-season but played in just three games before an indefinite leave of absence on Nov. 7 to deal with a personal issue. The 34-year-old guard played only three games with Memphis, all in California. He averaged 12.3 points and 22.3 minutes coming off the bench.
It was the second straight ugly ending for Iverson, who was unhappy last season playing for the Pistons. He was upset that Detroit coach Michael Curry and Memphis' Lionel Hollins used him as a reserve.
"There is no greater competitor I have been associated with," Williams said of Iverson. "I can't see him wanting to come off the bench. He didn't want to come off the bench as a little boy. That isn't changing."
Williams didn't like what he saw in the last couple of stops for Iverson.
"That was a fiasco in Detroit," Williams said. "And the Memphis thing was a miscommunication. I don't know what was expected from him. But they weren't on the same page. That's just me on the outside looking in."
After his release from Memphis, Iverson was considered by other teams, most seriously the New York Knicks. However, the Knicks passed on signing Iverson, leading to Wednesday's news.
"I have enjoyed 13 wonderful seasons in the NBA," Iverson wrote on the Web site, "and I am grateful."
If this is the end, Williams didn't see Wednesday as a sad day.
"Talk about a guy who had a great career," Williams said. "I think now he can move on. But, I think in his heart, he thinks he can still play on a day-to-day basis."
Coaches in the league agree with Williams that Iverson's career may continue.
"I think he still has something left to give some team out there," said George Karl, who coached Iverson in Denver. "If that's his decision, he'll go down in history, I think, as the greatest little guard ever to play the game of basketball.
"I was happy to have him for a couple years, and hopefully our paths will cross. But I have a sneaky feeling that somewhere along the way, an injury or a circumstance with a team will open that window back up."
Added Boston Celtics coach Doc Rivers: "I don't ever believe anyone retires until they get to the point they have to. He had a great career if it is true, but I still think he has more to offer."
While on the Peninsula, Iverson was a two-sport star. In his junior year, he led the Bruins to the 1992 Division 5 state football championship as a quarterback and safety, and to the 1993 Group AAA basketball title. The Associated Press named Iverson the Group AAA player of the year in both sports.
In the summer before his junior year, Iverson led Williams' team to a national title.
During the national tournament in Winston-Salem, N.C., Williams said that Iverson had three straight games in which he scored at least 30 points -- before halftime.
"That's going to be something I will remember for a long time," Williams said. "Of all the guys we've ever had, that is one of my fondest memories."
In his statement, Iverson looked back to the beginning of his career.
"To my high school coach, Michael Bailey, Coach John Thompson at Georgetown University, Coach Larry Brown (with the 76ers) and to all of my other coaches, teammates, administrators, owners and staff who've been a part of my career, thank you as well," he wrote.
"I'd like to give a special thanks to the people of Memphis. I never played a home game for your beloved Grizzlies, but I want you to know how much I appreciate the opportunity given me by a great owner in Michael Heisley, and the support of the city. I wish the Memphis Grizzlies' organization all of the success that the game has to offer.
"And finally, to the city of Philadelphia: I have wonderful memories of my days in a Sixers' uniform. To Philly fans, thank you. Your voice will always be music to my ears."
He closed: "God Bless all of you, Allen Iverson."
If this is the end for Iverson, it's not the one Williams expected. Nor wanted.
"I'm a little shocked," Williams said. "I'm a little disappointed that it ended the way it ended. He would have liked to end on a better note.
"But he can't be discouraged. He's had a great career."
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Copyright © 2009, Newport News, Va., Daily Press
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
New Bedford nets top honor
By Liz Torres, Globe Correspondent | November 22, 2009
NORTHBORO - In a match between undefeated teams - with the MIAA Division 1 state title on the line - it could be expected that the defense would be the key and that the scores would be close.
New Bedford had just a little bit more last night at Algonquin Regional, beating Central Catholic, 3-1, with the three victories each coming by 2 points.
“It all starts on defense. You’ve heard the old saying, ‘Defense wins championships,’ ’’ said Whalers coach Neil Macedo after his team won its first title since 1994.
New Bedford (23-0) prevailed, 25-23, 17-25, 27-25, and 26-24.
The match featured a net duel between New Bedford’s Maura Manley (6 feet) and Central Catholic’s Katie Zenevitch (6-3).
In the fourth game, the Raiders stole the lead but the Whalers, paced by junior Cheyenne Howard (12 kills) and junior Kristina Thompson (17 digs), wouldn’t go away. Manley penetrated the Raiders’ double blockers for a 24-23 lead. After Central Catholic tied, Howard’s powerful spike provided a 25-24 lead. Moments later, the Whalers were champions.
After losing the first game, the Raiders (22-1) stole the spotlight in the second game, taking a 10-point lead before tying the match.
The Raiders had control of the third game until the Whalers came back to tie it at 17. A point-for-point battle followed until Howard wrapped up the game with a kill.
Division 2 - With the Division 2 state championship in sight, Medfield didn’t deviate from its staple all season long: perfection.
The Warriors won their second straight title, beating South representative Bourne, 3-0. The win wrapped up a stellar 25-0 season.
“I’m glad it’s over, because this has been a long, long way,’’ said 20-year coach Jack Hastings. “I turned 59 yesterday, and I feel about 80.’’
Medfield won, 25-23, 25-16, and 25-14, capturing its third title in four years.
“This one’s definitely the best,’’ said senior cocaptain Morganne Gagne, who has been on the team for all three title runs.
Gagne led her team with 14 kills, fellow cocaptain and three-time champion Jessica McLeod fed her teammates 39 assists, and Kathleen Krah chipped in 10 kills and three aces.
If it is possible for a 25-0 team to get hot at the right time, Medfield did. The champions never lost a game in the playoffs. However, the Warriors did have to sweat it out in yesterday’s first game. Fueled by Hannah Gasper and Taylor Slesinski, Bourne jumped to a 17-13 lead. Medfield scored the next 5 points, tying the game at 22 on an ace by Krah before sealing the win.
Medfield held a comfortable 9-point lead halfway through the second game, its eventual winning margin. Bourne (18-2) registered the first point of Game 3, but that was the last lead it would have in its own successful season.
Division 3 - Facing a 20-13 deficit in the second game, Case was in danger of allowing Notre Dame of Tyngsboro back into the match.
Instead, the Cardinals reeled off a 12-2 run, taking the game, 25-22, to secure a commanding 2-0 lead, before going on to win the state title with a 3-0 sweep of the Lancers.
“I was really pleased with what the girls did today,” said 10th-year Case coach Denise Levesque. “We had no expectations coming into the season and I was really pleased with how they jelled. We’re a comeback team, so coming back like that is nothing new for us.”
Case was led by sophomore middle hitter Shannon Orton (five blocks, seven kills). She said that the team’s preparation for Notre Dame’s height paid off.
“We tried to work on going around the big girls,” she said. “I’m tall, but not that tall, and I have to use my skills to get around them. My goal was to get the team back in, and we came back really well [in the second game].”
The Cardinals (22-2) cruised in the first game, using a 9-3 run to take a 14-6 lead and put Notre Dame on the defensive. Case scored 6 straight points to end the first match, 25-10.
Globe correspondents John Raymond and Mike Carraggi contributed to this report.
NORTHBORO - In a match between undefeated teams - with the MIAA Division 1 state title on the line - it could be expected that the defense would be the key and that the scores would be close.
New Bedford had just a little bit more last night at Algonquin Regional, beating Central Catholic, 3-1, with the three victories each coming by 2 points.
“It all starts on defense. You’ve heard the old saying, ‘Defense wins championships,’ ’’ said Whalers coach Neil Macedo after his team won its first title since 1994.
New Bedford (23-0) prevailed, 25-23, 17-25, 27-25, and 26-24.
The match featured a net duel between New Bedford’s Maura Manley (6 feet) and Central Catholic’s Katie Zenevitch (6-3).
In the fourth game, the Raiders stole the lead but the Whalers, paced by junior Cheyenne Howard (12 kills) and junior Kristina Thompson (17 digs), wouldn’t go away. Manley penetrated the Raiders’ double blockers for a 24-23 lead. After Central Catholic tied, Howard’s powerful spike provided a 25-24 lead. Moments later, the Whalers were champions.
After losing the first game, the Raiders (22-1) stole the spotlight in the second game, taking a 10-point lead before tying the match.
The Raiders had control of the third game until the Whalers came back to tie it at 17. A point-for-point battle followed until Howard wrapped up the game with a kill.
Division 2 - With the Division 2 state championship in sight, Medfield didn’t deviate from its staple all season long: perfection.
The Warriors won their second straight title, beating South representative Bourne, 3-0. The win wrapped up a stellar 25-0 season.
“I’m glad it’s over, because this has been a long, long way,’’ said 20-year coach Jack Hastings. “I turned 59 yesterday, and I feel about 80.’’
Medfield won, 25-23, 25-16, and 25-14, capturing its third title in four years.
“This one’s definitely the best,’’ said senior cocaptain Morganne Gagne, who has been on the team for all three title runs.
Gagne led her team with 14 kills, fellow cocaptain and three-time champion Jessica McLeod fed her teammates 39 assists, and Kathleen Krah chipped in 10 kills and three aces.
If it is possible for a 25-0 team to get hot at the right time, Medfield did. The champions never lost a game in the playoffs. However, the Warriors did have to sweat it out in yesterday’s first game. Fueled by Hannah Gasper and Taylor Slesinski, Bourne jumped to a 17-13 lead. Medfield scored the next 5 points, tying the game at 22 on an ace by Krah before sealing the win.
Medfield held a comfortable 9-point lead halfway through the second game, its eventual winning margin. Bourne (18-2) registered the first point of Game 3, but that was the last lead it would have in its own successful season.
Division 3 - Facing a 20-13 deficit in the second game, Case was in danger of allowing Notre Dame of Tyngsboro back into the match.
Instead, the Cardinals reeled off a 12-2 run, taking the game, 25-22, to secure a commanding 2-0 lead, before going on to win the state title with a 3-0 sweep of the Lancers.
“I was really pleased with what the girls did today,” said 10th-year Case coach Denise Levesque. “We had no expectations coming into the season and I was really pleased with how they jelled. We’re a comeback team, so coming back like that is nothing new for us.”
Case was led by sophomore middle hitter Shannon Orton (five blocks, seven kills). She said that the team’s preparation for Notre Dame’s height paid off.
“We tried to work on going around the big girls,” she said. “I’m tall, but not that tall, and I have to use my skills to get around them. My goal was to get the team back in, and we came back really well [in the second game].”
The Cardinals (22-2) cruised in the first game, using a 9-3 run to take a 14-6 lead and put Notre Dame on the defensive. Case scored 6 straight points to end the first match, 25-10.
Globe correspondents John Raymond and Mike Carraggi contributed to this report.
Keith Parker, John Sousa end run
By Dan Ventura | Wednesday, November 25, 2009 | http://www.bostonherald.com | High School Football
Thanksgiving will mark the end of an era in the Boston City League.
Boston English’s Keith Parker will hang up his clipboard following the annual game against Boston Latin, leaving after spending the last 30 years as the school’s football coach.
Across town, John Sousa will march into White Stadium for one last time as the East Boston coach. Unlike Parker, Sousa’s season will extend beyond tomorrow as his Jets will face Bristol-Plymouth in the playoffs.
Leo Sybertz spent 31 years as coach at West Roxbury, amassing 202 wins, before retiring following the 2007 season. He said there will be a major void in the city when Sousa and Parker are done in the next week or so.
“First of all, both of them are excellent people, guys I really respect,” Sybertz said. “They’re both outstanding coaches, they work hard with the kids and have a great rapport with them.
“I’d want my kids playing for either one of those guys.”
It’s been a tough season for Parker, starting in August, when he was slammed in a newspaper article by a select few who suggested his time was up. As the team struggled during the season, Parker also had to deal with the death of his mother, Marjorie, in late October.
The highlight of what has become a 3-7 season heading into the Thanksgiving Day game with Boston Latin was the final home game against Charlestown on Oct. 30. Many of his former players were in the house, including several members of the 1993 Super Bowl team.
“That was a pretty special group of young men,” Parker said. “They lost a lot of close games as juniors, but they came back as seniors to win a Super Bowl championship. Those are the memories I’ll take from here.”
Across town, Sousa’s final sojourn as East Boston coach has been more pleasurable. The Jets already have clinched the Boston North title, thus the Thanksgiving Day game against South Boston won’t be the last Sousa coaches at East Boston.
“I’ve been reflecting about things more and more,” said Sousa, who spent 17 years as an assistant to Parker before leaving for East Boston in 1994. “You remember all of the good times, the special games, like the Southie game in 2000 when Wayne Harris scored the winning touchdown on a option run.
“That’s what keep you coming back. If I had a dollar every time I said this is my last year, I’d be a millionaire. But it’s the kids that makes you want to come back for that one last year.”
Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/high_school/football/view.bg?articleid=1214402
Thanksgiving will mark the end of an era in the Boston City League.
Boston English’s Keith Parker will hang up his clipboard following the annual game against Boston Latin, leaving after spending the last 30 years as the school’s football coach.
Across town, John Sousa will march into White Stadium for one last time as the East Boston coach. Unlike Parker, Sousa’s season will extend beyond tomorrow as his Jets will face Bristol-Plymouth in the playoffs.
Leo Sybertz spent 31 years as coach at West Roxbury, amassing 202 wins, before retiring following the 2007 season. He said there will be a major void in the city when Sousa and Parker are done in the next week or so.
“First of all, both of them are excellent people, guys I really respect,” Sybertz said. “They’re both outstanding coaches, they work hard with the kids and have a great rapport with them.
“I’d want my kids playing for either one of those guys.”
It’s been a tough season for Parker, starting in August, when he was slammed in a newspaper article by a select few who suggested his time was up. As the team struggled during the season, Parker also had to deal with the death of his mother, Marjorie, in late October.
The highlight of what has become a 3-7 season heading into the Thanksgiving Day game with Boston Latin was the final home game against Charlestown on Oct. 30. Many of his former players were in the house, including several members of the 1993 Super Bowl team.
“That was a pretty special group of young men,” Parker said. “They lost a lot of close games as juniors, but they came back as seniors to win a Super Bowl championship. Those are the memories I’ll take from here.”
Across town, Sousa’s final sojourn as East Boston coach has been more pleasurable. The Jets already have clinched the Boston North title, thus the Thanksgiving Day game against South Boston won’t be the last Sousa coaches at East Boston.
“I’ve been reflecting about things more and more,” said Sousa, who spent 17 years as an assistant to Parker before leaving for East Boston in 1994. “You remember all of the good times, the special games, like the Southie game in 2000 when Wayne Harris scored the winning touchdown on a option run.
“That’s what keep you coming back. If I had a dollar every time I said this is my last year, I’d be a millionaire. But it’s the kids that makes you want to come back for that one last year.”
Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/high_school/football/view.bg?articleid=1214402
English’s Melvin Booker reverses field, finds path to success
By Steve Buckley | Wednesday, November 25, 2009 | http://www.bostonherald.com | Columnists
When Melvin Booker is busting out of the backfield for Boston English High School, he has many choices before him.
He can take a deep breath and plow straight ahead, carrying half of the opposition’s defensive line with him. Or he can go to his right. Or to his left.
To Melvin Booker, that’s one of the beauties of playing football: With a little help from your friends, you have choices, options.
It didn’t used to be this way. It was just four years ago - though, to him, it seems a lifetime ago - that Melvin Booker graduated from a string of petty thefts to a crime that was serious enough that, when he finally landed in the custody of the Department of Youth Services, his own mother told him, “Don’t call me from jail asking me to come see you, because I’m not. And if I do see you, it will be because I want to, not because you want me to.”
The crime for which Booker was charged was horrifying: armed robbery.
Troubled past
“It was just some random guy minding his own business,” Booker said, recalling that day four years ago. “We robbed him, thought we were going to come out big, but we ended up coming out with, like, 5 dollars and 16 cents.
“I had a shotgun,” he said.
A shotgun? Sawed-off?
“Yeah.”
Booker and his accomplice didn’t get very far. They were arrested in front of Randolph High School, and soon Booker was in the custody of the DYS. That’s when his mother, Anissa Booker, made with the tough love.
Straighten yourself out, she said, or spend the rest of your life in prison.
“I was labeled a bad kid,” Booker said. “Nobody wanted to talk with me. I had a couple of friends here and there, but that was about it.
“I was illiterate when I was younger. I barely went to elementary school. I got into a lot of mischief. I went to jail.”
As Booker spoke these words, he was sitting in the front row of a set of wooden bleachers at the West Roxbury High School football field on a gray, chilly late Friday afternoon. Boston English had just suffered a 28-16 loss to West Roxbury, though Booker made things interesting late in the game by busting loose for a 65-yard run and then scoring a touchdown.
Now, as Booker sat there talking about his past, a West Roxbury High fan approached the bleachers and said, “Hey, that was one hell of a run you had there.”
“Thanks, man,” said Booker.
“That was really nice,” said the guy. “Some really strong running. Awesome.”
“Thanks,” Booker said again, smiling.
He started to talk again about the bad old days, about the fights, the mayhem, about not being able to read.
Now a member of the victorious West Roxbury High football team came up to Booker, extended a hand, and said, “Man, good game.”
“Thanks,” Booker said.
And it made me think: Some guys can’t run away from their past, but at this moment, seated in the front row of those bleachers, still wearing his Boston English football uniform, Melvin Booker found it difficult to run to his past.
He wanted to talk about all the bad stuff, as if by doing so he could remind himself where he’s been. But no: Too many people wanted to shake his hand and talk about today.
‘A feel-good story’
Seems everyone is rooting for Melvin Booker. One DYS official familiar with Booker’s case said that sometimes kids really find the capacity to take inventory of their lives and turn things around.
Keith Parker, the longtime football coach at Boston English who will coach his final game tomorrow morning when the Bulldogs take on Boston Latin at Harvard Stadium, said, “Melvin has done everything we’ve asked him to do, on and off the field. He listened the day he got here two years ago, and he’s still listening. And not just in football. There’s a light bulb in his head, and it’s on. He made the honor roll last year. He’s got a bright future.”
Bill Stewart Jr., the referee who worked the Boston English-West Roxbury game and whose father, the late Bill Stewart Sr., was athletic director at English for 35 years, said, “The greatest inventor of all time is the guy who invented the eraser. Because it allows you to start over again. Now I don’t know Melvin Booker, but I know about him. And from everything I hear, he’s really worked hard to straighten himself out.”
Stewart isn’t just throwing words around. A scholarship is given at Boston English in memory of his father, and, as Stewart puts it, “We don’t just give it to the straight-A student. It goes to a kid who works hard, who is goal-oriented, who believes in sacrifice, dedication. If George Washington didn’t have these kind of guys in his boat he never would have made it across the Delaware and we’d all be drinking tea at 5 in the afternoon.”
Though this year’s scholarship hasn’t been awarded yet, “Melvin Booker would be a good candidate,” Stewart said.
And Keith Ford, the associate football coach at Boston English and the man who will succeed Parker next season, said, “When we were trying to get the players to show up for weight training, it was Melvin who was calling them. He’s a mentor to a lot of the players. They believe in him. This is a feel-good story.”
To be fair, it is a feel-good story in the making. It’s not over yet. To be sure, it’s a feel-good story so far: How, during the more than two years Booker spent in the state’s juvenile justice system, he honed his reading skills and, when he got out, enrolled as a junior at Boston English.
So far, so good . . .
But though his high school football career will come to an end tomorrow morning at Harvard Stadium, he still has to complete his senior year at Boston English. He needs to explore the possibility of playing college football, perhaps at a local Division 3 school. He needs to keep hitting the books. And, especially, he needs to steer clear of the kind of life that landed him in custody in the first place.
Scary reminder
It’s not going to be easy. He knows that. As recently as three weeks ago, as if to serve as a reminder of the importance of making the right choices, Booker received a visit from his past. Let’s have him pick up the story from here:
“To be completely honest, and I’ve not really talked to anybody about this, I’ve only told my football players and whatever, but I was walking down my street and I saw this kid I used to chill with,” he said. “He’s like a real gangster, whatever. He’s like 23 now. He was saying, ‘Hey, what’s going on,’ playing it real safe, and real cool. I was walking away, saying bye, and he says, ‘Yo, come here real quick.’
“And I looked real nice, had on nice clothes, had my cell phone, it was a nice day,” Booker said. “And he was, like, ‘Yo, give me that,’ and he looked at my shoes and he looked at my phone. And I said, ‘Give you what?’ And he said, ‘Your wallet. Your phone.’ And I said, ‘Are you playin’?’ And he said, ‘Gimme your (expletive.)’ And he pulled out a gun on me.
“I was thinking about running. I could have easily ran. But I don’t think I’m that fast. So I gave him my wallet. And he was walking off, and I said, ‘I just hope that doesn’t happen to you.’ And he says, ‘What the (expletive) does that mean? What are you trying to say? You tryin’ to say you coming back?’ I said, ‘No. I swear to God I won’t do anything. But I pray to God that doesn’t happen to you. I pray to God that doesn’t happen to you.’ ”
This is one thing Melvin Booker has learned: “If you rob somebody, there’s two things that are going to happen,” he said. “They might come back and kill you if they’re mad enough, or you might go to jail. If you do the good thing, you have a job, you support yourself, you support your family one day when you grow older. And you have fun. There’s so many options when you do the good thing. When you do the bad thing, there’s only two. One of them is death at a young age and the other is jail.”
Melvin Booker already has done the jail.
Now, he chooses to live.
And now, he has everyone from his own coaches to West Roxbury football fans who like what they are seeing.
Feel-good story?
This is just the beginning of the story.
Melvin Booker, and Melvin Booker alone, will decide how it ends.
Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/columnists/view.bg?articleid=1214395
When Melvin Booker is busting out of the backfield for Boston English High School, he has many choices before him.
He can take a deep breath and plow straight ahead, carrying half of the opposition’s defensive line with him. Or he can go to his right. Or to his left.
To Melvin Booker, that’s one of the beauties of playing football: With a little help from your friends, you have choices, options.
It didn’t used to be this way. It was just four years ago - though, to him, it seems a lifetime ago - that Melvin Booker graduated from a string of petty thefts to a crime that was serious enough that, when he finally landed in the custody of the Department of Youth Services, his own mother told him, “Don’t call me from jail asking me to come see you, because I’m not. And if I do see you, it will be because I want to, not because you want me to.”
The crime for which Booker was charged was horrifying: armed robbery.
Troubled past
“It was just some random guy minding his own business,” Booker said, recalling that day four years ago. “We robbed him, thought we were going to come out big, but we ended up coming out with, like, 5 dollars and 16 cents.
“I had a shotgun,” he said.
A shotgun? Sawed-off?
“Yeah.”
Booker and his accomplice didn’t get very far. They were arrested in front of Randolph High School, and soon Booker was in the custody of the DYS. That’s when his mother, Anissa Booker, made with the tough love.
Straighten yourself out, she said, or spend the rest of your life in prison.
“I was labeled a bad kid,” Booker said. “Nobody wanted to talk with me. I had a couple of friends here and there, but that was about it.
“I was illiterate when I was younger. I barely went to elementary school. I got into a lot of mischief. I went to jail.”
As Booker spoke these words, he was sitting in the front row of a set of wooden bleachers at the West Roxbury High School football field on a gray, chilly late Friday afternoon. Boston English had just suffered a 28-16 loss to West Roxbury, though Booker made things interesting late in the game by busting loose for a 65-yard run and then scoring a touchdown.
Now, as Booker sat there talking about his past, a West Roxbury High fan approached the bleachers and said, “Hey, that was one hell of a run you had there.”
“Thanks, man,” said Booker.
“That was really nice,” said the guy. “Some really strong running. Awesome.”
“Thanks,” Booker said again, smiling.
He started to talk again about the bad old days, about the fights, the mayhem, about not being able to read.
Now a member of the victorious West Roxbury High football team came up to Booker, extended a hand, and said, “Man, good game.”
“Thanks,” Booker said.
And it made me think: Some guys can’t run away from their past, but at this moment, seated in the front row of those bleachers, still wearing his Boston English football uniform, Melvin Booker found it difficult to run to his past.
He wanted to talk about all the bad stuff, as if by doing so he could remind himself where he’s been. But no: Too many people wanted to shake his hand and talk about today.
‘A feel-good story’
Seems everyone is rooting for Melvin Booker. One DYS official familiar with Booker’s case said that sometimes kids really find the capacity to take inventory of their lives and turn things around.
Keith Parker, the longtime football coach at Boston English who will coach his final game tomorrow morning when the Bulldogs take on Boston Latin at Harvard Stadium, said, “Melvin has done everything we’ve asked him to do, on and off the field. He listened the day he got here two years ago, and he’s still listening. And not just in football. There’s a light bulb in his head, and it’s on. He made the honor roll last year. He’s got a bright future.”
Bill Stewart Jr., the referee who worked the Boston English-West Roxbury game and whose father, the late Bill Stewart Sr., was athletic director at English for 35 years, said, “The greatest inventor of all time is the guy who invented the eraser. Because it allows you to start over again. Now I don’t know Melvin Booker, but I know about him. And from everything I hear, he’s really worked hard to straighten himself out.”
Stewart isn’t just throwing words around. A scholarship is given at Boston English in memory of his father, and, as Stewart puts it, “We don’t just give it to the straight-A student. It goes to a kid who works hard, who is goal-oriented, who believes in sacrifice, dedication. If George Washington didn’t have these kind of guys in his boat he never would have made it across the Delaware and we’d all be drinking tea at 5 in the afternoon.”
Though this year’s scholarship hasn’t been awarded yet, “Melvin Booker would be a good candidate,” Stewart said.
And Keith Ford, the associate football coach at Boston English and the man who will succeed Parker next season, said, “When we were trying to get the players to show up for weight training, it was Melvin who was calling them. He’s a mentor to a lot of the players. They believe in him. This is a feel-good story.”
To be fair, it is a feel-good story in the making. It’s not over yet. To be sure, it’s a feel-good story so far: How, during the more than two years Booker spent in the state’s juvenile justice system, he honed his reading skills and, when he got out, enrolled as a junior at Boston English.
So far, so good . . .
But though his high school football career will come to an end tomorrow morning at Harvard Stadium, he still has to complete his senior year at Boston English. He needs to explore the possibility of playing college football, perhaps at a local Division 3 school. He needs to keep hitting the books. And, especially, he needs to steer clear of the kind of life that landed him in custody in the first place.
Scary reminder
It’s not going to be easy. He knows that. As recently as three weeks ago, as if to serve as a reminder of the importance of making the right choices, Booker received a visit from his past. Let’s have him pick up the story from here:
“To be completely honest, and I’ve not really talked to anybody about this, I’ve only told my football players and whatever, but I was walking down my street and I saw this kid I used to chill with,” he said. “He’s like a real gangster, whatever. He’s like 23 now. He was saying, ‘Hey, what’s going on,’ playing it real safe, and real cool. I was walking away, saying bye, and he says, ‘Yo, come here real quick.’
“And I looked real nice, had on nice clothes, had my cell phone, it was a nice day,” Booker said. “And he was, like, ‘Yo, give me that,’ and he looked at my shoes and he looked at my phone. And I said, ‘Give you what?’ And he said, ‘Your wallet. Your phone.’ And I said, ‘Are you playin’?’ And he said, ‘Gimme your (expletive.)’ And he pulled out a gun on me.
“I was thinking about running. I could have easily ran. But I don’t think I’m that fast. So I gave him my wallet. And he was walking off, and I said, ‘I just hope that doesn’t happen to you.’ And he says, ‘What the (expletive) does that mean? What are you trying to say? You tryin’ to say you coming back?’ I said, ‘No. I swear to God I won’t do anything. But I pray to God that doesn’t happen to you. I pray to God that doesn’t happen to you.’ ”
This is one thing Melvin Booker has learned: “If you rob somebody, there’s two things that are going to happen,” he said. “They might come back and kill you if they’re mad enough, or you might go to jail. If you do the good thing, you have a job, you support yourself, you support your family one day when you grow older. And you have fun. There’s so many options when you do the good thing. When you do the bad thing, there’s only two. One of them is death at a young age and the other is jail.”
Melvin Booker already has done the jail.
Now, he chooses to live.
And now, he has everyone from his own coaches to West Roxbury football fans who like what they are seeing.
Feel-good story?
This is just the beginning of the story.
Melvin Booker, and Melvin Booker alone, will decide how it ends.
Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/columnists/view.bg?articleid=1214395
Friday, November 20, 2009
Brockton wins eighth straight Big 3 title
November 16, 2009
By Mike Scandura
Globe Correspondent
NEW BEDFORD -- Two words summed up Brockton football coach Peter Colombo’s feelings yesterday after the Boxers beat New Bedford, 22-12, in a key Big 3 game.
“Mission accomplished,” Colombo said after Brockton (8-1, 2-0) captured its eighth consecutive Big 3 title. “We’re going to the playoffs, and we’re thrilled to be there.”
Conversely the Whalers (5-4, 0-1) missed out on their first trip to the playoffs since 2001.
“We believe in our kids,” New Bedford coach Dennis Golden said. “We believe we can play with anybody and we’re going to keep believing that. Each time we take the field we expect to be successful.”
New Bedford was successful twice on defense when it appeared Brockton was going to score and break the game open. But in each case, Brockton still scored without its offense touching the ball.
Brockton led 7-6 midway through the second quarter when Trevon Offley -- who gained 203 yards on 23 carries -- was held to one yard on fourth-and-goal from the 2. But after New Bedford went three-and-out, Jordan McDonald blocked Brian Hopwood’s punt.
Hopwood fell on the ball in the end zone, but was smothered for a safety.
Then, early in the fourth quarter with Brockton leading 15-6, Offley again was stopped short, this time on fourth-and-goal from the 2. But two plays later, Kadeem McIntosh intercepted a Nate Lewis pass Lewis and returned it 14 yards for the clinching score.
“Jordan’s been awesome this year,” Colombo said. “He didn’t play last year but he’s made play after play for us this year.
“Kadeem is a senior who hung in there. He finally got a chance to play this year and I’m so proud of him.
“You’re disappointed you didn’t finish the drives,” Colombo added. “But by forcing their offense to play out of their end zone helped us get (nine) points.”
New Bedford gave every indication it might spring an upset when it took opening kickoff and covered 75 yards in seven plays, with Lewis connecting with Jon Williams on a 12-yard swing pass for a touchdown.
But Brockton needed only three plays to go ahead for good.
With the Boxers in a passing situation, New Bedford stacked the box. But once Offley broke through the line of scrimmage there was nothing between him and the end zone and he sprinted 59 yards for the score.
While Lewis completed 14 of 28 passes for 194 yards, New Bedford’s running game wasn’t a factor.
“Our defense just continues to make plays,” Colombo said. “That’s really our heart, the defense. They’re tremendous.”
By Mike Scandura
Globe Correspondent
NEW BEDFORD -- Two words summed up Brockton football coach Peter Colombo’s feelings yesterday after the Boxers beat New Bedford, 22-12, in a key Big 3 game.
“Mission accomplished,” Colombo said after Brockton (8-1, 2-0) captured its eighth consecutive Big 3 title. “We’re going to the playoffs, and we’re thrilled to be there.”
Conversely the Whalers (5-4, 0-1) missed out on their first trip to the playoffs since 2001.
“We believe in our kids,” New Bedford coach Dennis Golden said. “We believe we can play with anybody and we’re going to keep believing that. Each time we take the field we expect to be successful.”
New Bedford was successful twice on defense when it appeared Brockton was going to score and break the game open. But in each case, Brockton still scored without its offense touching the ball.
Brockton led 7-6 midway through the second quarter when Trevon Offley -- who gained 203 yards on 23 carries -- was held to one yard on fourth-and-goal from the 2. But after New Bedford went three-and-out, Jordan McDonald blocked Brian Hopwood’s punt.
Hopwood fell on the ball in the end zone, but was smothered for a safety.
Then, early in the fourth quarter with Brockton leading 15-6, Offley again was stopped short, this time on fourth-and-goal from the 2. But two plays later, Kadeem McIntosh intercepted a Nate Lewis pass Lewis and returned it 14 yards for the clinching score.
“Jordan’s been awesome this year,” Colombo said. “He didn’t play last year but he’s made play after play for us this year.
“Kadeem is a senior who hung in there. He finally got a chance to play this year and I’m so proud of him.
“You’re disappointed you didn’t finish the drives,” Colombo added. “But by forcing their offense to play out of their end zone helped us get (nine) points.”
New Bedford gave every indication it might spring an upset when it took opening kickoff and covered 75 yards in seven plays, with Lewis connecting with Jon Williams on a 12-yard swing pass for a touchdown.
But Brockton needed only three plays to go ahead for good.
With the Boxers in a passing situation, New Bedford stacked the box. But once Offley broke through the line of scrimmage there was nothing between him and the end zone and he sprinted 59 yards for the score.
While Lewis completed 14 of 28 passes for 194 yards, New Bedford’s running game wasn’t a factor.
“Our defense just continues to make plays,” Colombo said. “That’s really our heart, the defense. They’re tremendous.”
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Latin Academy blanks Brighton
LATIN ACADEMY 14, BRIGHTON 0
By Amara Grautski, Globe Correspondent | November 7, 2009
As the sunlight faded on a blustery day at White Stadium, so did Brighton’s chances of clinching a Boston South title and securing a trip to the playoffs.
Although Latin Academy turned the ball over three times, it was the Bengals’ miscue at the end of the third quarter that turned the tide for good, helping the Dragons hold on for a 14-0 victory.
When Latin Academy (7-2, 3-1) punted from its 19-yard line, Brighton mishandled the return. Senior Ohimai Aisiku, who had a first-quarter interception, recovered for the Dragons.
“I think Brighton could have had a situation where they could have gained some momentum,’’ said Latin Academy coach Rocco Zizza. “The ball bounced our way on that kick . . . the wind was a factor. The ball actually came back about 6, 7 yards in the air and hit the ground and hit a kid. And the kid was doing what he was supposed to be doing, but because of the weather that’s what happened.’’
Latin Academy, which hasn’t been to the postseason since 1992, posted the game’s first points about a minute into the second quarter, with Justin Miles hitting Edbiko Elysee on a 63-yard touchdown pass.
The sophomore quarterback struggled for much of the first half, but connected on three consecutive passes for 36 yards to set up a 5-yard touchdown run by Cuong Nguyen just before halftime for a 14-0 lead.
“I’ve been waiting four long seasons for this day,’’ Nguyen said. “We’ve had a losing season ever since I started on this team, so I’m just getting tired of it. I really just [wanted] that win.’’
The Bengals (3-5, 3-1) weren’t able to break through in the second half.
“You win some, you lose some,’’ said Brighton coach James Philip. “It’s a matter of not blocking and tackling and not running the ball well.’’
By Amara Grautski, Globe Correspondent | November 7, 2009
As the sunlight faded on a blustery day at White Stadium, so did Brighton’s chances of clinching a Boston South title and securing a trip to the playoffs.
Although Latin Academy turned the ball over three times, it was the Bengals’ miscue at the end of the third quarter that turned the tide for good, helping the Dragons hold on for a 14-0 victory.
When Latin Academy (7-2, 3-1) punted from its 19-yard line, Brighton mishandled the return. Senior Ohimai Aisiku, who had a first-quarter interception, recovered for the Dragons.
“I think Brighton could have had a situation where they could have gained some momentum,’’ said Latin Academy coach Rocco Zizza. “The ball bounced our way on that kick . . . the wind was a factor. The ball actually came back about 6, 7 yards in the air and hit the ground and hit a kid. And the kid was doing what he was supposed to be doing, but because of the weather that’s what happened.’’
Latin Academy, which hasn’t been to the postseason since 1992, posted the game’s first points about a minute into the second quarter, with Justin Miles hitting Edbiko Elysee on a 63-yard touchdown pass.
The sophomore quarterback struggled for much of the first half, but connected on three consecutive passes for 36 yards to set up a 5-yard touchdown run by Cuong Nguyen just before halftime for a 14-0 lead.
“I’ve been waiting four long seasons for this day,’’ Nguyen said. “We’ve had a losing season ever since I started on this team, so I’m just getting tired of it. I really just [wanted] that win.’’
The Bengals (3-5, 3-1) weren’t able to break through in the second half.
“You win some, you lose some,’’ said Brighton coach James Philip. “It’s a matter of not blocking and tackling and not running the ball well.’’
Charlestown, Mansfield run away from foes
DIVISION 2 TRACK
By Chris Estrada, Globe Correspondent | February 23, 2009
Heading into the 4 x 400, the final event of the MIAA Division 2 state meet, the Charlestown boys were trailing Woburn by two points. As the meet-deciding relay unfolded, Townies anchor Omar Abdi found himself trailing Reading's Peter Finigan in the final lap.
Abdi could have just settled there and clinched the state title the easy way. He chose the hard way instead.
Abdi got past Finigan in Turn 4 for the win and the state crown. Charlestown finished with 40 points, edging Woburn (34) and Mansfield (33).
The team triumph of Abdi, Yaovi Jondoh, Ahmed Ali, and Kamal Riley in 3 minutes 26.43 seconds was amplified by multiple individual wins. Abdi won the mile in 4:15.53, missing the meet record by .04 seconds. Jondoh won the 300 in 36.09 and Ali came through with his own final-lap kick to win the 2-mile in 9:28.13.
To coach Kristyn Hughes, the championship was proof of what can be done with determination.
"I see some kids kick the can and get mad, but not [Abdi, Jondoh, Ali, and Riley]," she said. "They've had bad races, but they come back and say, 'How can we fix this?' instead of giving up."
Abdi can probably attest to that, having finished last in the boys' junior mile at the Boston Indoor Games Feb. 7.
"I've had some pretty bad races in the last couple of weeks, so [winning yesterday] gives me a lot of confidence," he said. "Coming back from [the Boston Indoor Games] and run a 4:15, it's great."
"Great" may be an understatement for what Mansfield accomplished on the girls' side.
The Hornets crushed their competition, racking up 62 points to beat North Attleboro and Notre Dame of Hingham (26 apiece). Mansfield won six events, including two wins by Meghan Ferreira and a win in the 4 x 400 relay (Ferreira, Emily Broyles, Erika Unger, and Michelle Jenssen in 4:04.54).
Ferreira won the long jump (16 feet 10 1/2 inches) by a half-inch over Marshfield's Julie McCauley. But in order to claim victory in the 55-meter hurdles (8.34), she had to come from behind to beat Westford's Cassandra Ryding.
Also scoring individual wins for Mansfield were Broyles in the 300 (40.92), Jenssen in the 600 (1:37.48), and Kelly McCabe in the shot put (41 feet).
In the girls' 4 x 200 relay, the North Attleboro team of Julianne Cappadona, Christy Deininger, Lauren Goldberg, and Carolyn Udall won in 1:44.52, shattering O'Bryant's 2004 record of 1:47.14.
Shrewsbury (1:46.53), Reading (1:46.82), and Westford (1:47.09) also beat the old mark.
Another Red Rocketeer, Nick Wade, won the boys' 600 in 1:21.06, beating the 6-year-old mark of Dartmouth's John Doherty (1:21.66).
By Chris Estrada, Globe Correspondent | February 23, 2009
Heading into the 4 x 400, the final event of the MIAA Division 2 state meet, the Charlestown boys were trailing Woburn by two points. As the meet-deciding relay unfolded, Townies anchor Omar Abdi found himself trailing Reading's Peter Finigan in the final lap.
Abdi could have just settled there and clinched the state title the easy way. He chose the hard way instead.
Abdi got past Finigan in Turn 4 for the win and the state crown. Charlestown finished with 40 points, edging Woburn (34) and Mansfield (33).
The team triumph of Abdi, Yaovi Jondoh, Ahmed Ali, and Kamal Riley in 3 minutes 26.43 seconds was amplified by multiple individual wins. Abdi won the mile in 4:15.53, missing the meet record by .04 seconds. Jondoh won the 300 in 36.09 and Ali came through with his own final-lap kick to win the 2-mile in 9:28.13.
To coach Kristyn Hughes, the championship was proof of what can be done with determination.
"I see some kids kick the can and get mad, but not [Abdi, Jondoh, Ali, and Riley]," she said. "They've had bad races, but they come back and say, 'How can we fix this?' instead of giving up."
Abdi can probably attest to that, having finished last in the boys' junior mile at the Boston Indoor Games Feb. 7.
"I've had some pretty bad races in the last couple of weeks, so [winning yesterday] gives me a lot of confidence," he said. "Coming back from [the Boston Indoor Games] and run a 4:15, it's great."
"Great" may be an understatement for what Mansfield accomplished on the girls' side.
The Hornets crushed their competition, racking up 62 points to beat North Attleboro and Notre Dame of Hingham (26 apiece). Mansfield won six events, including two wins by Meghan Ferreira and a win in the 4 x 400 relay (Ferreira, Emily Broyles, Erika Unger, and Michelle Jenssen in 4:04.54).
Ferreira won the long jump (16 feet 10 1/2 inches) by a half-inch over Marshfield's Julie McCauley. But in order to claim victory in the 55-meter hurdles (8.34), she had to come from behind to beat Westford's Cassandra Ryding.
Also scoring individual wins for Mansfield were Broyles in the 300 (40.92), Jenssen in the 600 (1:37.48), and Kelly McCabe in the shot put (41 feet).
In the girls' 4 x 200 relay, the North Attleboro team of Julianne Cappadona, Christy Deininger, Lauren Goldberg, and Carolyn Udall won in 1:44.52, shattering O'Bryant's 2004 record of 1:47.14.
Shrewsbury (1:46.53), Reading (1:46.82), and Westford (1:47.09) also beat the old mark.
Another Red Rocketeer, Nick Wade, won the boys' 600 in 1:21.06, beating the 6-year-old mark of Dartmouth's John Doherty (1:21.66).
BACK IN THE CITY
Danny Ventura| Boston Herald
O’Bryant hired David Siggers as the school’s new boys basketball coach, replacing Juan Figueroa, who left following the 2008-2009 season for Beaver Country Day. A longtime assistant under Mike Rubin at East Boston, Siggers was elevated to the head post when Rubin stepped down to become the school’s headmaster. In two seasons at East Boston, Siggers captured a Boston City League title as well as the Division 2 North sectional crown.
“People should expect to see the same style basketball we used at East Boston,” said Siggers. “We’re going to be an uptempo team, running from end to end. I’m not going to change my coaching style at all.”
O’Bryant hired David Siggers as the school’s new boys basketball coach, replacing Juan Figueroa, who left following the 2008-2009 season for Beaver Country Day. A longtime assistant under Mike Rubin at East Boston, Siggers was elevated to the head post when Rubin stepped down to become the school’s headmaster. In two seasons at East Boston, Siggers captured a Boston City League title as well as the Division 2 North sectional crown.
“People should expect to see the same style basketball we used at East Boston,” said Siggers. “We’re going to be an uptempo team, running from end to end. I’m not going to change my coaching style at all.”
Sousa, Jets land North title
EAST BOSTON 29, MADISON PARK 0
By Amara Grautski, Globe Correspondent | November 14, 2009
After the game clock struck zero, John Sousa gathered his team to deliver a message: This was a memory to cherish the rest of their lives.
But the East Boston coach had plenty of reasons to treasure the moment, as well.
In Sousa’s 15th and final season as coach, the Jets shut out host Madison Park, 29-0, to clinch the Boston North title and a postseason berth.
“It’s a great feeling for me,’’ Sousa said. “It’s my last coaching season. I’d like to be the North League champs, but it’s better because these kids worked hard since August.’’
East Boston (8-1, 4-0) had one of its toughest schedules in team history, but its only loss was to Austin Prep in the first game. Since then, the Jets have defeated solid teams like Amesbury, Blue Hills, and Brighton.
“We played all the big boys, and the kids got better and better every week,’’ Sousa said. “They worked hard. They [came] to practice. They’re a good bunch of kids.’’
Although the Jets started out slowly, their hard work culminated in a well-rounded effort against the Cardinals.
Senior Stanley Greene ran 4 tough yards for a touchdown in the first quarter, with senior captain Brandon Amodeo rushing for the 2-point conversion to give the Jets an 8-0 lead heading into halftime.
But Sousa knew his team’s first-half performance wouldn’t cut it if East Boston wanted to walk away with the title.
“In the second half, Coach had a talk with us,’’ Greene said. “He said that if we wanted to win the city championship, [we’d] have to come out in the second half fired up and ready to go.’’
The Jets ate about eight minutes off the clock on their opening drive in the third quarter, ending in another 4-yard TD run for Greene. This time, the senior running back took the conversion in himself, bolstering East Boston’s lead to 16-0.
Madison Park (6-2, 4-1) gained momentum at the end of the third, when Antone Minot bolted 50 yards down the right sideline to the East Boston 1. But the Cardinals couldn’t punch it in and a fumble was recovered by Eastie senior Fabio Isaza.
In the fourth quarter, Amodeo tacked on another 6 points with a 35-yard rush, and senior safety Stephan Lockwood drove the final nail in the coffin with a 30-yard interception return for a touchdown.
Coming off a 5-5 finish last season, Sousa told his Jets the victory was proof that hard work pays off. But he had one final message to deliver: They’re not finished yet, not when a spot in the Division 4 Super Bowl is still up for grabs.
“This is a culmination of a great, long, hard season,’’ he said. “I’m very happy for the boys. I’m very proud of them.’’
By Amara Grautski, Globe Correspondent | November 14, 2009
After the game clock struck zero, John Sousa gathered his team to deliver a message: This was a memory to cherish the rest of their lives.
But the East Boston coach had plenty of reasons to treasure the moment, as well.
In Sousa’s 15th and final season as coach, the Jets shut out host Madison Park, 29-0, to clinch the Boston North title and a postseason berth.
“It’s a great feeling for me,’’ Sousa said. “It’s my last coaching season. I’d like to be the North League champs, but it’s better because these kids worked hard since August.’’
East Boston (8-1, 4-0) had one of its toughest schedules in team history, but its only loss was to Austin Prep in the first game. Since then, the Jets have defeated solid teams like Amesbury, Blue Hills, and Brighton.
“We played all the big boys, and the kids got better and better every week,’’ Sousa said. “They worked hard. They [came] to practice. They’re a good bunch of kids.’’
Although the Jets started out slowly, their hard work culminated in a well-rounded effort against the Cardinals.
Senior Stanley Greene ran 4 tough yards for a touchdown in the first quarter, with senior captain Brandon Amodeo rushing for the 2-point conversion to give the Jets an 8-0 lead heading into halftime.
But Sousa knew his team’s first-half performance wouldn’t cut it if East Boston wanted to walk away with the title.
“In the second half, Coach had a talk with us,’’ Greene said. “He said that if we wanted to win the city championship, [we’d] have to come out in the second half fired up and ready to go.’’
The Jets ate about eight minutes off the clock on their opening drive in the third quarter, ending in another 4-yard TD run for Greene. This time, the senior running back took the conversion in himself, bolstering East Boston’s lead to 16-0.
Madison Park (6-2, 4-1) gained momentum at the end of the third, when Antone Minot bolted 50 yards down the right sideline to the East Boston 1. But the Cardinals couldn’t punch it in and a fumble was recovered by Eastie senior Fabio Isaza.
In the fourth quarter, Amodeo tacked on another 6 points with a 35-yard rush, and senior safety Stephan Lockwood drove the final nail in the coffin with a 30-yard interception return for a touchdown.
Coming off a 5-5 finish last season, Sousa told his Jets the victory was proof that hard work pays off. But he had one final message to deliver: They’re not finished yet, not when a spot in the Division 4 Super Bowl is still up for grabs.
“This is a culmination of a great, long, hard season,’’ he said. “I’m very happy for the boys. I’m very proud of them.’’
Parker to retire from English
By Braden Campbell, Globe Correspondent | November 12, 2009
Longtime Boston English football coach Keith Parker will step down after the Thanksgiving Day game against Boston Latin.
In his 30-year tenure, Parker’s teams won five City League titles and two Division 5B Super Bowls. He has an overall record of 141-168-5.
“I’m 65 years old, and it’s time for me to go,’’ he said. “I’ve had a great career and I’ve enjoyed every bit of it.’’
The program has been in decline since its heyday in the 1990s, when it made three Super Bowl appearances. Parker attributes that to a shrinking enrollment at English, which dropped from about 1,800 in 1997, the year of the team’s last Super Bowl win, to its current total of less than 700.
There had been whispers of Parker’s retirement since the end of last school year, according to Boston City athletic director Ken Still. He and English headmaster Sito Narcisse will conduct the search for a replacement.
“[We would] like to see someone who’s going to really instill some real football knowledge into the kids,’’ Still said. “Not only winning, but trying to make football a piece of the school, where the kids and the staff gather around the sport.’’
Since he started as an assistant coach 33 years ago, Parker has only missed two practices: one for his mother’s funeral, and one because of illness. Still said consistency is what made Parker stand out.
Parker said his most cherished memory is his 1992 team, whose 2-8 record doesn’t begin to tell the story. In six losses, English was within a touchdown.
“They were mostly juniors on that team,’’ he said, “and that turned over to my 1993 team that won the City League championship and the Super Bowl.’’
Longtime Boston English football coach Keith Parker will step down after the Thanksgiving Day game against Boston Latin.
In his 30-year tenure, Parker’s teams won five City League titles and two Division 5B Super Bowls. He has an overall record of 141-168-5.
“I’m 65 years old, and it’s time for me to go,’’ he said. “I’ve had a great career and I’ve enjoyed every bit of it.’’
The program has been in decline since its heyday in the 1990s, when it made three Super Bowl appearances. Parker attributes that to a shrinking enrollment at English, which dropped from about 1,800 in 1997, the year of the team’s last Super Bowl win, to its current total of less than 700.
There had been whispers of Parker’s retirement since the end of last school year, according to Boston City athletic director Ken Still. He and English headmaster Sito Narcisse will conduct the search for a replacement.
“[We would] like to see someone who’s going to really instill some real football knowledge into the kids,’’ Still said. “Not only winning, but trying to make football a piece of the school, where the kids and the staff gather around the sport.’’
Since he started as an assistant coach 33 years ago, Parker has only missed two practices: one for his mother’s funeral, and one because of illness. Still said consistency is what made Parker stand out.
Parker said his most cherished memory is his 1992 team, whose 2-8 record doesn’t begin to tell the story. In six losses, English was within a touchdown.
“They were mostly juniors on that team,’’ he said, “and that turned over to my 1993 team that won the City League championship and the Super Bowl.’’
East Boston claims the crown
EAST BOSTON 1, MADISON PARK 0
When MP players kick to referee, game called
By Michael Grossi, Globe Correspondent | November 5, 2009
East Boston 1
Madison Park 0
With 4:30 left in regulation in yesterday’s East Boston-Madison Park boys’ soccer game at White Stadium in Franklin Park for the Boston City League title, referee Savas Trellopoulos blew his whistle, signaling a handball in the goalie box by a Madison Park player.
East Boston sent its best player, Carlos Andres Ruiz, to take the penalty shot. His shot nicked off the hands of Cardinals goalie Beithoven Baesa and into the back of the net, giving the Jets a 1-0 lead.
The Cardinals were set to kick off after the goal, but suddenly a fracas broke out.
The Madison Park players loudly disagreed with Trellopoulos’s call. They began to shout and gesture at the referee and coaches and police officers were needed to restrain some of them. While Trellopoulos was walking over to the sideline, Venude Depina threw the ball and hit him in the back of the head.
The game was stopped for more than five minutes while officials attempted to restore order. After the dust had settled, Trellopoulos called the game, giving East Boston the win.
“It was a really good, even game by both teams,’’ said Jets coach Lorenzo DiBenedetto. “When the score is 0-0 something is going to happen. We got a call that was good for us, and for [Madison Park] it wasn’t. The game shouldn’t have ended like that. They should have had more class, especially in the city championship.’’
“I wish the refs didn’t have to take [the game] away from them,’’ said Madison Park coach Joao Gomes. “If it was just that one call I would be OK, but the referees’ calls were inconsistent.’’
Before the incident, the teams had played a clean, back-and-forth match.
Each side had its share of chances. East Boston had a great bid in the 47th minute. With a wall of Cardinals blocking Ruiz’s free kick, the sophomore slid a pass to Anderson Gaviria, who rocketed the ball into Baesa’s stomach.
“We created a lot of opportunities in the second half but we couldn’t finish,’’ said DiBenedetto. “We weren’t on today.’’
The Cardinals also had opportunities. Luis Tavares lofted a free kick across the goalie box toward Arlindo Depina. Depina put too much mustard on the ball and chipped it over the crossbar.
Both teams’ goalies kept them in the game. Baesa had good looks at shots and recorded more than 10 saves. East Boston’s Jorge Benitez wasn’t called on as often but made the stops when it counted.
When MP players kick to referee, game called
By Michael Grossi, Globe Correspondent | November 5, 2009
East Boston 1
Madison Park 0
With 4:30 left in regulation in yesterday’s East Boston-Madison Park boys’ soccer game at White Stadium in Franklin Park for the Boston City League title, referee Savas Trellopoulos blew his whistle, signaling a handball in the goalie box by a Madison Park player.
East Boston sent its best player, Carlos Andres Ruiz, to take the penalty shot. His shot nicked off the hands of Cardinals goalie Beithoven Baesa and into the back of the net, giving the Jets a 1-0 lead.
The Cardinals were set to kick off after the goal, but suddenly a fracas broke out.
The Madison Park players loudly disagreed with Trellopoulos’s call. They began to shout and gesture at the referee and coaches and police officers were needed to restrain some of them. While Trellopoulos was walking over to the sideline, Venude Depina threw the ball and hit him in the back of the head.
The game was stopped for more than five minutes while officials attempted to restore order. After the dust had settled, Trellopoulos called the game, giving East Boston the win.
“It was a really good, even game by both teams,’’ said Jets coach Lorenzo DiBenedetto. “When the score is 0-0 something is going to happen. We got a call that was good for us, and for [Madison Park] it wasn’t. The game shouldn’t have ended like that. They should have had more class, especially in the city championship.’’
“I wish the refs didn’t have to take [the game] away from them,’’ said Madison Park coach Joao Gomes. “If it was just that one call I would be OK, but the referees’ calls were inconsistent.’’
Before the incident, the teams had played a clean, back-and-forth match.
Each side had its share of chances. East Boston had a great bid in the 47th minute. With a wall of Cardinals blocking Ruiz’s free kick, the sophomore slid a pass to Anderson Gaviria, who rocketed the ball into Baesa’s stomach.
“We created a lot of opportunities in the second half but we couldn’t finish,’’ said DiBenedetto. “We weren’t on today.’’
The Cardinals also had opportunities. Luis Tavares lofted a free kick across the goalie box toward Arlindo Depina. Depina put too much mustard on the ball and chipped it over the crossbar.
Both teams’ goalies kept them in the game. Baesa had good looks at shots and recorded more than 10 saves. East Boston’s Jorge Benitez wasn’t called on as often but made the stops when it counted.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
HIGH SCHOOL HOOP TOURNAMENTS
Posted by Danny Ventura at the Boston Herald
PUBLIC VS. CATHOLIC ROUNDBALL CLASSIC
SUNDAY JANUARY 24, 2010 @ EMMANUEL COLLEGE
Madison Park High School vs. St. Raphaels High School (RI)
East Boston High School vs. New Mission High School
Cathedral High School vs. Winthrop High School
BLACK HISTORY MONTH CLASSIC
MONDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2010 @ THE REGGIE LEWIS CENTER
Madison Park High School vs. The Rivers School
Boston Trinity Academy vs. Lawrence High School
New Mission High School vs La Salle Academy (girls)
East Boston vs. Lawrence Academy
http://www.bostonherald.com/blogs/sports/high_school/index.php/2009/10/06/high-school-hoop-tournaments/
PUBLIC VS. CATHOLIC ROUNDBALL CLASSIC
SUNDAY JANUARY 24, 2010 @ EMMANUEL COLLEGE
Madison Park High School vs. St. Raphaels High School (RI)
East Boston High School vs. New Mission High School
Cathedral High School vs. Winthrop High School
BLACK HISTORY MONTH CLASSIC
MONDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2010 @ THE REGGIE LEWIS CENTER
Madison Park High School vs. The Rivers School
Boston Trinity Academy vs. Lawrence High School
New Mission High School vs La Salle Academy (girls)
East Boston vs. Lawrence Academy
http://www.bostonherald.com/blogs/sports/high_school/index.php/2009/10/06/high-school-hoop-tournaments/
Monday, September 14, 2009
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Lady Tigers' Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir joins Obama for Ramadan feast
President Barack Obama introduces Springfield's Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir, a University of Memphis student, as he makes remarks during a dinner celebrating Ramadan in the State Dining Room of the White House in Washington Tuesday.
Springfield's Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir holds the trophy she received after scoring her 3,000th career point last season.
By Bartholomew Sullivan
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
WASHINGTON — University of Memphis women's basketball freshman Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir sat at President Barack Obama's left elbow Tuesday evening, breaking her Ramadan fast after he introduced her as "an inspiration to all of us."
The 18-year-old standout from Massachusetts, wearing a purple headscarf, was asked to stand as Obama told her story to a group of about 70 invited guests in the State Dining Room of The White House. The dinner was the traditional Muslim iftar, the breaking of the daylong fast at sunset.
Speaking from a podium, Obama took note of several elected leaders and members of his Cabinet and the mother of a slain Muslim-American soldier, then began speaking about Abdul-Qaadir.
"She's not even 5-5," he said, scanning the room. "Where is Bilqis?"
"Right here," she said.
"Right here. Stand up Bilqis. I want everybody to know. She's got heels on. She's 5-5. ... She recently told a reporter, 'I'd like to really inspire a lot of young Muslim girls if they want to play basketball. Anything is possible. They can do it too.'
"As an honors student, as an athlete on her way to Memphis, Bilqis is an inspiration not simply to Muslim girls; she's an inspiration to all of us."
Abdul-Qaadir said afterward that she was surprised that he singled her out in his remarks.
"Just for me to be next to him was, like, thrilling," she said. "It was the time of my life, it felt like."
And what did they talk about over dinner? "We kind of talked about me challenging him to a game of H-O-R-S-E. ... He said, 'You look a little bit too quick.' And he was like, 'We should play sometime.'"
The dinner of organic chicken, potato and leek puree, peas and oranges with lemon sorbet was preceded by a reception in the Grand Foyer of the White House where dates and fruit juice were served by liveried waiters.
The Commercial Appeal was part of an expanded pool of reporters permitted to be present for Obama's remarks to the group before the doors to the ornate room, with its portrait of a standing Lincoln, were closed.
Before the dinner, Abdul-Qaadir admitted being "just blown away" by the invitation, received only Friday. She said she hadn't decided exactly what she wanted to say to the president, but planned to give him what she said is the best English translation of the Quran, the Muslim holy book.
In his eight-minute remarks, Obama said there is a tradition of holding iftar dinners at the White House.
"Tonight's iftar is a ritual that's also being carried out this Ramadan at kitchen tables and mosques in all 50 states," Obama said. "Islam, as we know, is part of America."
Muslims fast during the daylight hours of the monthlong holiday period of soul-searching and reflection so, for an athlete like Abdul-Qaadir, that means a big breakfast before dawn.
The 5-4 freshman was recruited from the New Leadership Charter School in Springfield, Mass., after she and six siblings were home-schooled by their mother.
Playing in a head scarf and with her arms and legs covered, she was the Western Massachusetts Player of the Year, was part of The Boston Globe's All-Dream Team and scored 3,070 points from eighth grade to graduation this year.
"I'm really liking Memphis," she said.
A pre-med student, she'll wear No. 10 on her jersey.
Features on her have appeared in both Sports Illustrated and SLAM magazines, and she's all over YouTube.
Among the attendees at Tuesday night's dinner were Defense Secretary Robert Gates, Atty. Gen. Eric Holder, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sibelius, five members of congress, and 23 members of the diplomatic corps including ambassadors from Iraq, Afghanistan, the Palestine Liberation Organization, Indonesia, France, India, Israel, Jordan, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Contact Washington correspondent Bartholomew Sullivan at (202) 408-2726.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
BCDS Names New Basketball Coach
7/15/2009
BCDS Athletic Director Sherry Levin has appointed Juan Figueroa as head coach for the school’s varsity boys’ basketball team in 2009-10.
Juan Figueroa will lead our boys’ varsity basketball program. A graduate of Boston Latin and Boston College (’93), Juan also will teach middle school math. He has coached the John D. O’Bryant School’s varsity team for the past nine years, making it one of the most successful programs in Boston. Under Juan’s leadership, the O’Bryant squad captured five Boston City South Division Titles and compiled a league record of 85-5 over seven years. Juan is excited about the opportunity to build on the strong foundation Beaver’s team established last season as NEPSAC Class D division II runner-up.
“Beaver athletics is fortunate to have Steve and Juan join our staff. They both bring a high level of professionalism and coaching expertise to lead our young student-athletes. We look forward to continued success from both programs,” commented Levin.
BCDS Athletic Director Sherry Levin has appointed Juan Figueroa as head coach for the school’s varsity boys’ basketball team in 2009-10.
Juan Figueroa will lead our boys’ varsity basketball program. A graduate of Boston Latin and Boston College (’93), Juan also will teach middle school math. He has coached the John D. O’Bryant School’s varsity team for the past nine years, making it one of the most successful programs in Boston. Under Juan’s leadership, the O’Bryant squad captured five Boston City South Division Titles and compiled a league record of 85-5 over seven years. Juan is excited about the opportunity to build on the strong foundation Beaver’s team established last season as NEPSAC Class D division II runner-up.
“Beaver athletics is fortunate to have Steve and Juan join our staff. They both bring a high level of professionalism and coaching expertise to lead our young student-athletes. We look forward to continued success from both programs,” commented Levin.
MIAA 2009-2010 FOOTBALL PLAYOFF FORMAT
August 14th, 2009
2009-2010 FOOTBALL PLAYOFF FORMAT
Posted by Danny Ventura at 7:45 am
Hey folks, getting closer to the start of the high school football season. One thing we’ve received several e-mails on is the actual playoff format for 2009 and 2010, namely who is playing whom. Apparently, some incorrect information has surfaced regarding certainly schools and what division they are actually in.
We’ve checked with as many parties as possible and this looks like the way the format should be for the next two years. I know there were some problems namely with the MVC and which schools are in the Large and Small. Thanks to Central Catholic coach Chuck Adamopoulos, we think we have it figured out.
If any coach or school administrators sees something amiss down below, please don’t hesitate to e-mail me at dventura@boston herald.com. Also, we have a twitter account (www.twitter.com/BostonHeraldHS), so feel free to browse on in.
DIVISION 1 (MVC Large vs. GBL/Big Three vs. Catholic Conference)
MVC Large: Andover, Billerica, Central Catholic, Chelmsford, Lowell
GBL: Cambridge, Everett, Malden, Medford, Somerville
BIG THREE: Brockton, Durfee, New Bedford
CATHOLIC CONFERENCE: BC High, Catholic Memorial, Malden Catholic, St. John’s Prep, Xaverian
DIVISION 1A (DCL Large vs. NEC Large/OCL vs. Bay State Carey)
DCL LARGE: Acton-Boxboro, Boston Latin, Lincoln-Sudbury, Newton South, Waltham, Westford
NEC LARGE: Gloucester, Lynn Classical, Lynn English, Peabody, Revere, Salem
OCL: Attleboro, Barnstable, Bridgewater-Raynham, Dartmouth, Taunton
BSC CAREY: Braintree, Brookline, Framingham, Needham, Newton North, Weymouth
DIVISION 2 (MVC Small vs. Middlesex League/Hockomock vs. BSC Herget)
MVC SMALL: Dracut, Haverhill, Lawrence, Methuen, Tewksbury
MIDDLESEX LARGE: Belmont, Lexington, Reading, Winchester, Woburn
MIDDLESEX SMALL: Burlington, Melrose, Stoneham, Wakefield, Watertown
HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE: Canton, Foxboro, Franklin, King Philip, Mansfield, North Attleboro, Oliver Ames, Sharon, Stoughton
BSC HERGET: Dedham, Milton, Natick, Norwood, Walpole, Wellesley
NOTE: While the Middlesex League has split into large and small, it will only get one postseason berth and that will be awarded to the school with the best record in league play (all schools are playing a complete crossover schedule with the exception of Watertown). Since Watertown is playing as an independent for the time being, its games against ML opponents will be considered nonleague. Hope I did you proud with this explanation, Reading AD Phil Vaccaro. Fortunately, this computer comes equipped with an eraser if this isn’t 100 percent correct.
DIVISION 2A (Patriot Keenan vs. ACL/CAL Large vs. DCL Small)
DCL SMALL: Arlington, Bedford, Concord-Carlisle, Tyngsboro, Wayland, Weston
CAL LARGE: Masconomet, North Andover, Pentucket, Triton, Wilmington
PATRIOT KEENAN: Duxbury, Hingham, Quincy, Scituate, Silver Lake, Whitman-Hanson
ACL: Dennis-Yarmouth, Falmouth, Marshfield, Nauset, Plymouth North, Playmouth South, Sandwich
NOTE: While Newburyport is still in the CAL Small, it is playing all five of the CAL Large schools and those games will count as league games for the CAL Large. Those games against the CAL Large schools will be considered nonleague for Newburyport, who is playing the other six CAL Small schools.
DIVISION 3 (NEC Small vs. Patriot Fisher/EAC vs. South Coast Conference)
SCC: Apponequet, Bourne/UCT, Case, Dighton-Rehoboth, Fairhaven, GNB Voke, Old Rochester, Seekonk, Wareham
EAC: Bishop Feehan, Bishop Stang, Coyle-Cassidy, Martha’s Vineyard, Somerset
NEC SMALL: Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Saugus, Swampscott, Winthrop
PATRIOT FISHER: Hanover, Middleboro, North Quincy, Pembroke, Randolph, Rockland
DIVISION 3A (TVL vs. South Shore League/CAL Small vs. Catholic Central Large)
TVL: Ashland, Bellingham, Dover-Sherborn, Holliston, Hopkinton, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norton, Westwood
SSL: Abington, Carver, Cohasset, East Bridgewater, Hull, Mashpee, Norwell
CAL Small: Amesbury, Georgetown, Hamilton-Wenham, Ipswich, Lynnfield, Newburyport, North Reading
CCL Large: Archbishop Williams, Arlington Catholic, Austin Prep, Bishop Fenwick, Cardinal Spellman, St. Mary’s
DIVISION 4 (Boston North, CAC Large, Mayflower Large)
MAYFLOWER LARGE: Bishop Connolly, Blue Hills, Bristol-Plymouth, Cape Cod/Harwich, South Shore Voke, Southeastern
BOSTON NORTH: Boston English, Charlestown, East Boston, Maidson Park, South Boston, West Roxbury
CAC LARGE: Greater Lawrence, Greater Lowell, Lynn Tech, Manchester Essex, Shawsheen, Whittier
NOTE: This is not a misprint, there are only three leagues in Division 4, therefore one league will get a bye into the Super Bowl. As soon as we find out, we’ll put it in.
DIVISION 4A (Boston South vs. Mayflower Small/CAC Small vs. CCL Small)
BOSTON SOUTH: Brighton, Burke, Dorchester, Hyde Park, Latin Academy, O’Bryant
MAYFLOWER SMALL: Diman, Holbrook/Avon, Nantucket, Old Colony, Tri-County, West Bridgewater
CCL SMALL: Cathedral, Lowell Catholic, Marian, Matignon, Pope John, St. Clement, Trinity Catholic
CAC SMALL: Chelsea, Minuteman, Mystic Valley, North Shore, Northeast
2009-2010 FOOTBALL PLAYOFF FORMAT
Posted by Danny Ventura at 7:45 am
Hey folks, getting closer to the start of the high school football season. One thing we’ve received several e-mails on is the actual playoff format for 2009 and 2010, namely who is playing whom. Apparently, some incorrect information has surfaced regarding certainly schools and what division they are actually in.
We’ve checked with as many parties as possible and this looks like the way the format should be for the next two years. I know there were some problems namely with the MVC and which schools are in the Large and Small. Thanks to Central Catholic coach Chuck Adamopoulos, we think we have it figured out.
If any coach or school administrators sees something amiss down below, please don’t hesitate to e-mail me at dventura@boston herald.com. Also, we have a twitter account (www.twitter.com/BostonHeraldHS), so feel free to browse on in.
DIVISION 1 (MVC Large vs. GBL/Big Three vs. Catholic Conference)
MVC Large: Andover, Billerica, Central Catholic, Chelmsford, Lowell
GBL: Cambridge, Everett, Malden, Medford, Somerville
BIG THREE: Brockton, Durfee, New Bedford
CATHOLIC CONFERENCE: BC High, Catholic Memorial, Malden Catholic, St. John’s Prep, Xaverian
DIVISION 1A (DCL Large vs. NEC Large/OCL vs. Bay State Carey)
DCL LARGE: Acton-Boxboro, Boston Latin, Lincoln-Sudbury, Newton South, Waltham, Westford
NEC LARGE: Gloucester, Lynn Classical, Lynn English, Peabody, Revere, Salem
OCL: Attleboro, Barnstable, Bridgewater-Raynham, Dartmouth, Taunton
BSC CAREY: Braintree, Brookline, Framingham, Needham, Newton North, Weymouth
DIVISION 2 (MVC Small vs. Middlesex League/Hockomock vs. BSC Herget)
MVC SMALL: Dracut, Haverhill, Lawrence, Methuen, Tewksbury
MIDDLESEX LARGE: Belmont, Lexington, Reading, Winchester, Woburn
MIDDLESEX SMALL: Burlington, Melrose, Stoneham, Wakefield, Watertown
HOCKOMOCK LEAGUE: Canton, Foxboro, Franklin, King Philip, Mansfield, North Attleboro, Oliver Ames, Sharon, Stoughton
BSC HERGET: Dedham, Milton, Natick, Norwood, Walpole, Wellesley
NOTE: While the Middlesex League has split into large and small, it will only get one postseason berth and that will be awarded to the school with the best record in league play (all schools are playing a complete crossover schedule with the exception of Watertown). Since Watertown is playing as an independent for the time being, its games against ML opponents will be considered nonleague. Hope I did you proud with this explanation, Reading AD Phil Vaccaro. Fortunately, this computer comes equipped with an eraser if this isn’t 100 percent correct.
DIVISION 2A (Patriot Keenan vs. ACL/CAL Large vs. DCL Small)
DCL SMALL: Arlington, Bedford, Concord-Carlisle, Tyngsboro, Wayland, Weston
CAL LARGE: Masconomet, North Andover, Pentucket, Triton, Wilmington
PATRIOT KEENAN: Duxbury, Hingham, Quincy, Scituate, Silver Lake, Whitman-Hanson
ACL: Dennis-Yarmouth, Falmouth, Marshfield, Nauset, Plymouth North, Playmouth South, Sandwich
NOTE: While Newburyport is still in the CAL Small, it is playing all five of the CAL Large schools and those games will count as league games for the CAL Large. Those games against the CAL Large schools will be considered nonleague for Newburyport, who is playing the other six CAL Small schools.
DIVISION 3 (NEC Small vs. Patriot Fisher/EAC vs. South Coast Conference)
SCC: Apponequet, Bourne/UCT, Case, Dighton-Rehoboth, Fairhaven, GNB Voke, Old Rochester, Seekonk, Wareham
EAC: Bishop Feehan, Bishop Stang, Coyle-Cassidy, Martha’s Vineyard, Somerset
NEC SMALL: Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Saugus, Swampscott, Winthrop
PATRIOT FISHER: Hanover, Middleboro, North Quincy, Pembroke, Randolph, Rockland
DIVISION 3A (TVL vs. South Shore League/CAL Small vs. Catholic Central Large)
TVL: Ashland, Bellingham, Dover-Sherborn, Holliston, Hopkinton, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norton, Westwood
SSL: Abington, Carver, Cohasset, East Bridgewater, Hull, Mashpee, Norwell
CAL Small: Amesbury, Georgetown, Hamilton-Wenham, Ipswich, Lynnfield, Newburyport, North Reading
CCL Large: Archbishop Williams, Arlington Catholic, Austin Prep, Bishop Fenwick, Cardinal Spellman, St. Mary’s
DIVISION 4 (Boston North, CAC Large, Mayflower Large)
MAYFLOWER LARGE: Bishop Connolly, Blue Hills, Bristol-Plymouth, Cape Cod/Harwich, South Shore Voke, Southeastern
BOSTON NORTH: Boston English, Charlestown, East Boston, Maidson Park, South Boston, West Roxbury
CAC LARGE: Greater Lawrence, Greater Lowell, Lynn Tech, Manchester Essex, Shawsheen, Whittier
NOTE: This is not a misprint, there are only three leagues in Division 4, therefore one league will get a bye into the Super Bowl. As soon as we find out, we’ll put it in.
DIVISION 4A (Boston South vs. Mayflower Small/CAC Small vs. CCL Small)
BOSTON SOUTH: Brighton, Burke, Dorchester, Hyde Park, Latin Academy, O’Bryant
MAYFLOWER SMALL: Diman, Holbrook/Avon, Nantucket, Old Colony, Tri-County, West Bridgewater
CCL SMALL: Cathedral, Lowell Catholic, Marian, Matignon, Pope John, St. Clement, Trinity Catholic
CAC SMALL: Chelsea, Minuteman, Mystic Valley, North Shore, Northeast
Monday, August 31, 2009
Former LSU/NBA star Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf signs to play in Japan at age 40
Also from Japan, Kyoto announced they will sign Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf (formerly Chris Jackson) the 40 year old 6′1 PG with amazing shooting ability who played collegiately at LSU and for several years in the NBA (Denver Nuggets). Abdual-Rauf has also played in the Euroleague in the past.
http://netscoutsbasketball.com/blog/2009/08/31/overseas-basketball-signings-fiba-americas-news/
http://netscoutsbasketball.com/blog/2009/08/31/overseas-basketball-signings-fiba-americas-news/
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Boston to get school athletics boost
Boston to get school athletics boost
Foundation created to funnel millions to underfunded programs, hire coaches
By Bob Hohler, Globe Staff | August 3, 2009
Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino will announce today the creation of a multimillion-dollar charitable foundation and consortium of professional sports teams, colleges and universities, and corporations to enhance opportunities for Boston student-athletes - a potential breakthrough for Boston’s chronically underfunded high school athletic system.
The partnership plans to boost the annual athletic budget for the Boston public schools over the next three years from about $4 million to an average of $6.5 million, a 61.5 percent increase with the potential to restore the system’s respectability. Menino launched the initiative after a Globe series detailed deep-rooted inadequacies in equipment, facilities, coaching, and academic eligibility in the school sports system.
“It’s a new renaissance for the athletic and academic programs in the Boston public schools,’’ Menino said Friday. “These kids need help, and we’re going to give them that little extra to make sure they’re successful.’’
In an innovative collaboration that grants a private organization unusual power in managing public schools, Roxbury-based Suffolk Construction Co.’s Red & Blue Foundation will administer the new Boston Scholar Athlete Program. Foundation officials - including a new executive athletic director and chief academic officer - will report directly to Menino and participate in hiring and evaluating coaches.
Initial indications are that the Boston Teachers Union will agree to the arrange ment. “I think we’ll be able to work this out,’’ union president Richard Stutman said yesterday, “but the people in each school need to have a say in who gets hired.’’
Suffolk CEO John F. Fish, whose foundation contributed $1 million to launch the initiative, said the mission is to promote academic achievement through athletic success.
“The kids in the city of Boston deserve this,’’ said Fish, whose foundation has spent millions of dollars building and improving facilities for disadvantaged youth. “The business community, the pro teams, and the colleges and universities will be good partners in making this a reality.’’
The city for many years has spent less than a half-percent of its total budget on athletics, far below the state and national averages.
“In an economic crisis like we’re having now,’’ Fish said, “it’s almost incumbent on the businesses and citizens of the community to step forward and say: ‘They need our help now. Do we truly want to make a difference?’ ’’
Menino said he expects “100 percent’’ participation from Boston’s professional sports teams, which previously indicated to the Globe that they would contribute to the cause if the city asked. Every major college and university in Boston has also agreed to provide goods and services, including academic tutors, through the foundation, Menino and Fish said. Brighton-based New Balance also has pledged major support, as has Dorchester-based Good Sports, a nonprofit that distributes athletic gear to needy youths.
“That’s only the tip of the iceberg,’’ Fish said of the community’s financial support.
The program is expected to provide some relief to Ken Still, the city’s lone athletic director for 18 high schools. In addition to providing administrative support, the foundation will have the time to raise money and organize clinics to improve coaching and participation in school sports.
Boston School Superintendent Carol R. Johnson expressed enthusiasm for the program, particularly its emphasis on academics. She helped Fish develop standards such as classroom attendance and grade point averages to measure the program’s success.
“The academic and athletic pieces together are the strength of this initiative,’’ Johnson said. “It’s a lot more focused on both than we’ve had before.’’
Johnson said Still, who was on vacation and not available for comment, was “excited because it’s really an investment in developing the coaches and helping with equipment and uniforms . . . I think he sees it as a really important partnership.’’
The program marks the start of a new era for the city’s coaches. Although Boston boasts some of the best in the state - coaches expert in teaching sports and highly committed to ensuring their athletes succeed as students and citizens - many others in the city lack the proficiency, mentoring skills, and dedication required for their players to thrive.
The foundation plans to establish new job criteria for coaches that stress academics and mentoring. Foundation officials also expect to play a key role in hiring, despite the city’s contract with the Boston Teachers Union, which grants teachers preference and gives headmasters the final authority in hiring.
“The Red & Blue Foundation, with the mayor and the superintendent of schools, needs to have the authority to select coaches,’’ Fish said. “If we don’t have that authority, it’s impossible for us to control the outcome we’re looking for.’’
Stutman, the union president, applauded the effort to upgrade the athletic system but indicated that teachers may be less receptive to waiving the contract’s hiring rules. Boston high school coaches rank among the best paid in the state, with stipends next fall ranging from $4,947 for volleyball and soccer coaches to $10,778 for football coaches. Still, he said, an accommodation can probably be reached.
Fish said the foundation aims to raise $2 million in cash and in-kind contributions this school year, $2.5 million the following year, and $3 million in 2011-12.
With schools scheduled to open in less than six weeks, the foundation’s immediate goals are hiring the new executives, recruiting board members (Linda Whitlock, former CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston, already has joined), and launching a plan to improve the system one sport at a time, first with boys and girls soccer this fall. Fish said every soccer player in the city will receive new uniforms and the equipment they need, including soccer goals for teams that practice on fields lacking them.
The foundation also plans to stage school fairs to encourage students, particularly girls, to participate. Several large high schools, including Charlestown, Dorchester, Hyde Park, and South Boston, fielded no girls soccer teams last year, partly because of low interest. Fish said the foundation will fund intramural soccer programs at schools without interscholastic teams.
“We need to get kids off the street corners and out of their houses watching TV in the afternoon,’’ he said.
The foundation’s schedule calls for overhauling boys and girls basketball teams next winter, then baseball and softball in the spring. Football and field hockey will be upgraded in the fall of 2010, followed by boys and girls indoor track that winter. In spring 2010, the foundation plans to launch the city’s first boys and girls lacrosse teams.
Teams scheduled for upgrades in 2011-12 are cross-country, ice hockey, and outdoor track.
The plan also calls for academic incentives. Once a year, the city will stage a gala celebrating high school athletes, especially those who get good grades.
“We don’t just want great athletes,’’ Menino said. “We want scholar-athletes who can cut it after their athletic days are over.’’
City seeks heroes to rescue school athletics
FAILING OUR ATHLETES > PART 7
City seeks heroes to rescue school athletics
3 professional teams express early interest
By Bob Hohler, Globe Staff | June 27, 2009
With local school athletic systems in crisis, professional sports teams in some American cities have rushed to the rescue.
In Denver, charitable arms of the Avalanche, Broncos, Nuggets, and Rockies have contributed more than $1 million over the last five years to improve sports in the public schools. In Cleveland, the Browns donated $300,000 to the city’s school athletic department, and the Indians kicked in $250,000.
In San Francisco, the Giants and 49ers agreed to a ticket tax - 25 cents for every Giants ticket, 75 cents for every 49ers ticket over $27 - to help fund the city’s athletic programs. The fees have generated about $1 million a year for sports in the schools.
“The teams were heroes,’’ said Don Collins, the San Francisco district’s athletic director. “They made us viable again.’’
Will there be similar heroes in Boston? After a Globe review found the city’s high school athletics program plagued by serious inadequacies in funding, facilities, equipment, coaching, and oversight, city leaders were scrambling for answers this week to problems that have festered for years and have cost countless students opportunities to make the most of their athletic abilities.
The cash-strapped Boston School Department has routinely allocated less than a half percent of its total budget to athletics, far below state and national averages.
“It really would help us a heck of a lot if the professional teams stepped up to the plate and contributed,’’ said School Committee member Alfreda Harris, long an advocate for youth sports.
Boston’s professional teams expressed preliminary interest this week in helping the city’s struggling school athletic program. The teams already contribute to urban programs aimed at improving health care, education, and recreational opportunities for needy children.
A high-ranking city official said the Red Sox are weighing a significant contribution after the Globe series. The Red Sox Foundation already contributes $200,000 a year for summer baseball and softball for Boston youth and $325,000 annually for Red Sox Scholars in the city’s schools.
“In a time of great need, there is always more we can all do, and we’re happy to work with the mayor, the School Department, other sports teams and supporters to try to provide young people in our community with more healthy, active, and safe programs that serve their needs,’’ said Meg Vaillancourt, the foundation’s executive director.
Celtics president Rich Gotham said, “If the city of Boston were to approach the Boston sports teams with a program that demonstrated how assistance provided by the teams could benefit school athletic programs in a way that positively impacts the lives of students, it’s something we would carefully consider, along with the many other causes we support through the Shamrock Foundation.’’
The Bruins, too, are poised to field a request for help.
“If the Boston public schools were to apply for a grant to help the city’s scholastic athletic programs, the Boston Bruins Foundation’s board would certainly be willing to give them consideration,’’ said Bruins executive vice president Charlie Jacobs.
Examples of support
While the longstanding problems in Boston’s athletic program raise questions about whether city leaders have the political will to make the necessary improvements - the problems will take more than money to fix - no one disputes that major financial contributions from private sources would address many needs.
“In an era of shrinking revenues, we would welcome any additional assistance,’’ School Superintendent Carol R. Johnson said of the prospect of the city’s professional teams helping to save sports in the schools.
The Denver Public Schools Foundation, which supports both academic and athletic programs, has grown from giving $2 million to the school system in 2004 to more than $6 million last year. The city’s athletic department has received more than $250,000 a year, helping to fund a vibrant middle school sports league in which youths compete in football, soccer, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, and cross-country.
The only interscholastic sports programs offered at Boston’s 22 middle schools are basketball and spring track.
“We’re very fortunate that all of Denver’s professional sports teams have been incredibly supportive of the athletes in the Denver public schools,’’ said Kristin Colon, the foundation’s president.
Cleveland’s pro teams responded to a deeper crisis than Boston’s. They stepped up after budget cuts in 2005 threatened the future of the city’s high school football and baseball teams.
The story was similar in San Francisco, with the Giants and 49ers rushing in after budget writers in 1988 zeroed out funding for high school sports. The ticket tax has helped fund programs since 1991, but it never has been enough to fully support the city’s school sports teams. To help, San Francisco voters in 2004 approved a $20 million annual enrichment fund for chronically underfunded programs, of which about $2.4 million a year goes to athletics.
The San Francisco school district allocates only $600,000 a year to high school sports.
“In a properly run system, the district would fully fund athletics,’’ Collins said. “Without the two other pots of money, we would be out of business.’’
The additional support allows San Francisco to provide high school students a broader range of athletic opportunities than Boston provides. Students attending at least half of San Francisco’s 12 high schools can participate in interscholastic fencing, badminton, golf, and tennis, as well as the traditional sports, which all 12 schools offer.
Boston athletic director Ken Still said he would welcome aid from Boston’s pro sports teams. Together, they sell about 4.5 million tickets a year.
“I would take 5 cents a ticket,’’ he said, referring to a version of San Francisco’s ticket fee.
The prospect of the Massachusetts Legislature approving such a tax is highly unlikely, which means that Boston needs either to increase public funding for athletics or seek additional aid from private sources.
Considering the enormous financial capital in Boston, the resources exist to support school athletics across the city on a much larger scale. For example, Boston Latin’s alumni generated more than $100,000 a year for sports.
In New York, by contrast, Loews executive Robert Tisch raised $140 million before he died in 2005 to renovate more than 40 athletic fields for public school students.
“It would be great if somebody donated $150,000,’’ Still said. “We could really establish goals and have some outside consultants do the fund-raising for us.’’
Building on partnerships
Community leaders, meanwhile, have indicated they need to strengthen the links between the schools and public and private groups that provide opportunities, facilities, services, and transportation for children to play sports, particularly at a younger age. Boston’s high school teams generally fare poorly against suburban competition because they lack dynamic feeder programs.
Dan Lebowitz, executive director of Northeastern’s Center for the Study of Sport in Society, said a recent study showed that Boston’s youth have one-third the opportunities to participate in sports as their suburban counterparts. “The situation in Boston’s high schools is an outgrowth of the youth sports participation problem,’’ he said.
Many youth sports groups are trying to fill the void, some through partnerships with the schools. Boston-based Tenacity, for one, helps run a pilot program at Umana Middle School in East Boston in which the school day is extended until 4:15 p.m. and students receive extra help with academics and tennis instruction. The program also reaches out to parents, which is vital to improving children’s academic and athletic lives.
“It’s critical that the school system, the state Legislature, and everyone involved be willing to take some risks and try these new innovative approaches to the problem,’’ Tenacity president Ned Eames said.
Youth advocates said the city needs to build on partnerships with organizations such as Young Savants, which helps Boston high school students develop learning, basketball, and character skills. Young Savants founder Ben Okiwe, a probation officer who recently stepped down as boys basketball coach at Lincoln-Sudbury to focus on his nonprofit, said working with children is only part of the challenge.
“Moving forward, the parental support is key,’’ he said. “So are the coaches. We need to create an atmosphere that will help them be the best they can be, and Boston school athletics will be better for it.’’
City leaders said this week that they are considering ways to improve the quality of coaches in the city. They also plan to address the equipment shortage and said they expect to continue working with Boston University to provide more athletic trainers for the city’s high school athletes. Currently, there is only one trainer for 18 high schools.
No one wishes city leaders greater success than the shortchanged athletes. Brighton High football player Alex Tisme said, “In the future, I hope the younger kids get something better than we had.’’
Bob Hohler can be reached at hohler@globe.com.
That awful empty feeling
FAILING OUR ATHLETES > PART 6
That awful empty feeling
With spirit and support lagging, lack of attendance is a going concern
By Bob Hohler, Globe Staff | June 26, 2009
It was senior night, South Boston High School's final home football game of the 2008 season, and coach Sean Guthrie wanted to make it memorable for the players who were ending their high school careers. Unable to find anyone in city government to switch on the public address system, Guthrie rented a generator, hauled a pair of speakers to Saunders Stadium at Moakley Park, and asked a fellow teacher to serve as the announcer for a ceremony honoring the seniors.
Forget that the scoreboard had not worked for seven years and that the new artificial turf had drained poorly from a recent storm. Everything else seemed in order as South Boston ran up a comfortable lead against Charlestown, clearing the way for a once-in-a-lifetime halftime ceremony for the team̢۪s 10 seniors.
The only problem: Almost no one bothered to show up.
As Guthrie’s colleague called the roll of South Boston’s seniors, he shared the grandstand with 11 spectators.
It was “Friday Night Lights,’’ Boston-style: 11 supporters for more than 60 players, coaches, and cheerleaders. As thousands of commuters rolled past on the nearby expressway and downtown financial towers twinkled in the distance, the expanse of empty bleachers in the football stadium looked like the aftermath of a fire drill.
The scene is common at high school sports events across the city, where athletes rarely hear the roar of a crowd, see their parents, schoolmates, or teachers turn out to support them, or simply know that someone is taking note of special moments in their lives.
“It’s pitiful,’’ said Sandra Redish, the mother of a West Roxbury High cheerleader who has witnessed similar scenes at other competitions. “There should be a lot more parents here. What’s going on?’’
Guthrie, who played football for Boston College and in NFL Europe, was so dismayed by the empty stands that he changed the start of his Friday home games last season from 3:30 to 7 p.m., believing it would boost attendance. No such luck, even though admission was free.
“I don’t know where everybody is,’’ he said. “It’s a shame.’’
The turnout was no better for many events at White Stadium, the city’s premier high school stadium in Franklin Park, where football, soccer, and track teams compete.
“I love White Stadium, but it’s a sin when you play a game on a beautiful, 60-degree Friday afternoon and you turn around and there are only 10 people there,’’ said Paul Duhaime, Burke’s assistant football and head baseball coach.
Preoccupied parents
Coaches say it is heartrending to watch the efforts some students make to commute to schools and games through dangerous neighborhoods, maintain their academic eligibility, and dedicate themselves to their teams, only to play their games in virtual anonymity. Longtime coaches said attendance has faded as poverty has risen in the school population. Working parents who have no time to attend teacher meetings have even less time to attend sports events.
“The parents will never be there,’’ said Paulo De Barros, the Burke boys soccer coach who founded the Teen Center at St. Peter’s Church in Dorchester. “They are working two or three jobs so their families can survive.’’
Not a single parent turned out to support Burke in its tournament soccer game on a balmy Sunday afternoon last November against Wayland in Dorchester. In fact, De Barros benched several top players because they arrived late for a pregame meeting for reasons that reflected the hard demands of home. The benched players included Dory Vicente, one of the city’s best goalkeepers.
While more than 50 supporters cheered Wayland to its 2-0 victory, Vicente sat on the sidelines with his aunt, Maria DePina, a former BC track star who teaches at the Burke. With DePina translating his Cape Verdean Creole, Vicente said he arrived late because he needed to watch his siblings until his mother returned from her job as a hairdresser. His father was in Cape Verde.
“In the suburbs, God forbid if a parent doesn’t go to a game,’’ DePina said. “The problem in Boston is that nobody comes.’’
Charlestown track coach Kristyn Hughes, who competed before ample crowds as an athlete at Woburn High School before she pole vaulted for BC, was struck by the contrast to her own experience. Her Charlestown teams have won state championships the last two years with nationally competitive athletes, yet in her six years of coaching, she said, she has met only one parent at a meet.
Some of that is economic pressures. Some of the Charlestown players’ families are so needy, Hughes said, that when her students take home their medals, their parents ask, “How much can we get for them?’’
But some of it seems more like simple absenteeism.
“A lot of parents aren’t a big part of their children’s lives anymore,’’ said Madison Park football coach Roosevelt Robinson. “One of the saddest things is that I might see a parent at graduation, and I think, ‘I’ve had your child for four years and I’ve met you once or twice, or maybe not at all.’ ’’
School spirit is lacking
It is a situation exacerbated, at some schools, by teachers and administrators who show scant commitment to their schools’ athletes. Numerous coaches said their schools rarely, if ever, stage pregame rallies. Some coaches said they are rebuffed when they ask for team news to be broadcast on the school’s public address system. And only Boston Latin rallies its teams with a band.
“When I went to Latin in the ’70s, we had rallies and plenty of school spirit,’’ said Hyde Park softball coach Bruce Collotta as he rooted for the school’s football team against English. “But we’ve never had school spirit here.’’
Many coaches attribute the problem in part to the splintering of large education complexes into smaller schools. West Roxbury, Hyde Park, South Boston, and Dorchester each has been divided into at least three schools, each occupying a different section of the building. Lunch hours are separate, and interaction between students and teachers in the schools is extremely limited.
“Breaking up the school has really hurt us,’’ said West Roxbury football coach Brian Collins. “There’s not the same kind of pride. I went to the Walpole game one night and there were 5,000 people. We’re lucky if we get 50.’’
Boston School Superintendent Carol R. Johnson acknowledged the problem, though she commended three schools in Brighton - Brighton High, Another Course to College, and Boston Community Leadership Academy - for rallying together in Brighton High’s 2007 Division 4 Super Bowl victory.
“We have some schools that don’t really understand yet how to work together and promote athletics,’’ Johnson said, “but we know that it’s possible.’’
No sense of community
A lack of neighborhood ties also hurts. More than 30 years after the city began busing vast numbers of students out of their neighborhoods in an effort to achieve racial integration, so few students attend schools in their own geographic areas that local interest in sports teams has plummeted. The problem is especially acute in areas such as West Roxbury, South Boston, and Charlestown.
“I only have one kid from West Roxbury on my roster, so you can see why there’s no real community support,’’ Collins said.
Attendance is typically better for basketball, the city’s most popular high school sport. The crowds also are generally larger when teams from East Boston, Brighton, and a couple of exam schools are involved because their headmasters actively promote sports. But athletes at other Boston schools struggle for recognition.
When South Boston advanced to the Eastern Massachusetts football tournament last fall for the first time in a decade, its opponent, Martha’s Vineyard, rolled into the stadium in Taunton with busloads of fans, dwarfing the number of Southie supporters. South Boston’s crowd could have been much larger, but school administrators denied a request for a bus to shuttle students to the game.
South Boston lost, 42-14, after winning the city’s North Division championship. The experience left Guthrie with a bitter taste.
“Most schools, when you win a championship, they put up a banner in front of the school,’’ Guthrie said. “We haven’t seen one.’’
Brighton boys basketball coach Erle Garrett, who also officiates city football games, said he was “gravely disappointed’’ by the turnout at many high school games. He plans to send letters to parents next fall asking them which time slots would best enable them to attend their children’s contests.
“I don’t care when it is, I’ll change the schedule,’’ Garrett said. “They need to understand it’s part of being a parent. To save your kids, you’ve got to be around your kids.’’
The problem may not be easily solved, said Ken Still, Boston’s athletic director. He said it demands the community’s attention.
“This is the kind of thing that needs to change if we are going to get high school sports in the city going again,’’ Still said. “It’s going to take a lot of work.’’
Bob Hohler can be reached at hohler@globe.com.
Coaches in the crossfire
FAILING OUR ATHLETES > PART 5
Coaches in the crossfire
Competence, commitment questioned; hiring/firing system also seen as flawed
By Bob Hohler, Globe Staff | June 25, 2009
Number of years Keith Parker has coached football at English High School: 29.
Number of times Parker's teams have defeated Boston Latin in the nation's oldest continuous high school football rivalry: 2.
To some of Parker's critics, even those who witnessed English's 36-0 loss last Thanksgiving to a winless Latin team, the won-lost record is excusable. What's not acceptable to them is how Parker has presided over the decline of English's once-formidable football program. Winners of divisional Super Bowls in 1993 and '97, Parker's teams have since gone 42-76 and struggled for respectability.
Parker’s critics said he no longer exerts the energy, enthusiasm, and innovation to sustain a competitive program in an era when city coaches need to work harder than ever to overcome a multitude of challenges. Parker, 64, kept his coaching job after he retired last year from teaching at English.
“I love the man, but his time has passed,’’ said Clarzell Pearl, who starred for Parker’s teams in the 1980s and served as his assistant for several years, including last season. “It’s time for him to go.’’
Pearl and numerous other critics, including former NFL draftee Erle Garrett, who has coached against Parker and officiated his games, have expressed their views to Ken Still, the city’s athletic director. Still shares their opinion.
“Parker is a friend of mine, but it’s time for him to go,’’ Still said. “He’s still in the same mold he was 30 years ago, running the same stuff, and it doesn’t work.’’
Still said he would remove Parker if he could. But in a city where the best coaches routinely complain about ill-prepared, uncommitted, and underqualified colleagues failing their student-athletes, the hiring and firing of coaches is controlled by each school’s headmaster rather than the athletic director, who may be better suited for the task.
English headmaster Jose Duarte recently appointed Parker to coach his 30th season.
“I don’t know who’s trying to do Keith Parker in, but I’m not,’’ Duarte said. “Keith Parker is a gentleman who cares deeply about our kids. Some people only care about winning, but high school football is about developing young men to work as a team and developing them to understand the hard work it takes to achieve success. Keith Parker has done that.’’
Parker said he continues to give everything he has to the job.
“For 29 years at English High School, I have been the best I can be and I have helped the kids be the best they can be,’’ he said. “I understand that we all need to move aside one day for the younger guys, but I want to go out on my terms and I think I’ve earned that right.’’
As for Parker’s record against Latin, the coach described the rivalry as a monumental mismatch. Latin’s enrollment is three times the size of English’s, and while Latin is predominantly white (31 percent) and African-American (28 percent), English is mostly Hispanic (52 percent). As a result, English is far more competitive in baseball and soccer than football.
“I can win if I have the talent,’’ Parker said, “but I can’t wave a magic wand and make it happen.’’
Lucrative side job
Parker will coach another year because headmasters are empowered under the city’s contract with the Boston Teachers Union to hire and fire coaches. The policy, which gives union teachers preference for coaching positions, grants the final hiring authority to headmasters.
“The process is working well,’’ union president Richard Stutman said.
A number of other coaches disagree.
“Let our athletic director function like other athletic directors by hiring and firing his coaches,’’ said Garrett, the Brighton High basketball coach. “He has the expertise. Let him take the ball and run with it.’’
Under the system, coaching candidates are first interviewed by Still, who sends the headmaster a written evaluation and recommendation. Still said Parker is one of numerous coaches who have been hired or retained against his written or verbal recommendations.
“There are a whole lot of people who are coaching in the city who shouldn’t be,’’ Still said. “In a system of this magnitude, with 275 coaches, you would like to have 80-90 percent who are committed to the job and know what they’re doing. We’re not there yet.’’
Boston coaches rank among the highest-paid in the state, with salaries ranging from $2,777 for wrestling and tennis to $10,414 for head football coaches. There are too few coaches, however, and some of them see an inequity in the salaries.
Soccer coaches, for instance, earn $4,947, less than the assistant coaches in football ($6,147), basketball ($5,456), and baseball ($5,205). And soccer coaches have no paid assistants.
“My [former] principal told me to get an assistant and pay him $500 out of my salary,’’ Brighton boys soccer coach Matt Krebs said. “I find it absurd that I was asked to do that.’’
Another problem, according to Still and others, is that too many teachers become coaches only for the extra check. The additional salary can boost a teacher’s pension.
“I know there are coaches who do it only for the money,’’ said East Boston High hockey coach Robert Anthony, a Boston police officer. “You hate to see it.’’
Paul Duhaime, the head baseball coach and assistant football coach at Burke High School, said he could tolerate colleagues enhancing their pensions if they were committed to coaching.
“We make very good money,’’ he said, “but some people just aren’t doing their jobs.’’
That was news to Stutman.
“I know a lot of coaches, and not one of them does it for the money,’’ he said.
The city can take pride in many of its coaches. But the Globe received numerous accounts of others selling short their athletes. The accounts ranged from coaches routinely calling off outdoor practices at the slightest forecast of rain to others showing so little interest in the job that they read newspapers or chat on cellphones during games and practices. Other coaches were criticized for failing to teach students the fundamentals of their sports.
“Just because you’re a teacher doesn’t mean you’re a coach,’’ said Burke boys soccer coach Paulo De Barros, whose team won the city championship last fall. “Some coaches just throw the kids out on the field.’’
Filling voids
A number of coaches said headmasters have asked teachers to take over teams simply to fill voids. West Roxbury girls volleyball coach Margaret Hoyt has coached several sports throughout the city during a lengthy teaching career.
“When they needed a cheerleading coach, I did it because they needed a cheerleading coach, not because I was any kind of a cheerleading coach at all,’’ Hoyt said.
Some headmasters were said to prefer appointing trusted allies rather than the most competent coaching candidates.
“You have headmasters who don’t know anything about sports and it doesn’t make any difference to them who’s running the program as long as somebody is running it,’’ said Turi Lonero, who coached boys soccer at East Boston High School for 20 years and has coached the men’s teams at Northeastern and Salem State. Lonero said he was not referring to East Boston’s current headmaster, Mike Rubin, the school’s former basketball coach.
Still said he would welcome hiring and firing coaches, but he is unlikely to get the opportunity because of opposition from the teachers union and headmasters.
“Headmasters should have the say about who coaches at their schools,’’ Duarte said. “We know the kids in our schools and we know what they need to develop and be successful.’’
East Boston’s Rubin, a director of the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association, also defended the hiring policy, although he acknowledged problems may arise when headmasters lack expertise in sports.
“Those headmasters need to reach out for help from people in the community who have some experience in athletics,’’ Rubin said.
Most headmasters assign teachers to serve as their athletic coordinators for a small stipend or as volunteers. Yet most coordinators have little influence, according to some, including Charlestown’s coordinator, Steve Cassidy, who called the job “kind of a joke.’’
The best coaches commit year-round to the job, enriching their knowledge of their sports, tracking the grades of their players, encouraging students to join their programs. Many reach deep into their pockets to provide uniforms and equipment players need to compete.
Personal investment
As for Parker, Duarte said the veteran coach has made invaluable contributions to many at-risk youths by steering them away from the streets toward brighter futures. Duarte also suggested that some of Parker’s critics have personal agendas. Pearl, for instance, has made no secret he would like to succeed Parker.
“To have somebody take a shot at that man, after all he has done to turn the boys in our school into men, is really sad and unfair,’’ Duarte said.
The challenge for Parker and most other coaches in the city is making the best of what they have. For many, like Margaret Cash, who retired last year as a science teacher at Snowden International School and remains the school’s girls volleyball coach, it means investing extra hours and personal savings in their student athletes.
Cash estimated she has spent about $5,000 a year on her students. She bought a winter coat for a player. She took another player and her siblings for a meal after she visited them and found their refrigerator empty. She also counseled the family of a girl who showed up at practice with her suitcase because her immigrant mother told her she needed to live with the coach.
“The idea is to keep their morale up,’’ Cash said. “I tell them all they are champions in their own way.’’
Many of her colleagues said the challenge for city leaders is finding more coaches who care.
“Unfortunately,’’ said Madison Park football coach Roosevelt Robinson, “we have a lot who need to go.’’
Bob Hohler can be reached at hohler@globe.com.
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