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.’’
Thursday, December 3, 2009
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
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