I'm guessing you've seen the story. Texas Tech head football coach Mike Leach suspended by the university and will not coach the Red Raiders in the Alamo Bowl thanks to some questionable tactics involving Adam James, the son of ESPN (and former player) Craig James. I won't go into details of the story, you can read that just about anywhere, including ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/bowls09/news/story?id=4776848).
In that ESPN Story, it is reported: A source close to the family said James sustained a concussion on Dec. 16, was examined on Dec. 17 and told not to practice because of the concussion and an elevated heart rate. The source said Leach called a trainer and directed him to move James "to the darkest place, to clean out the equipment and to make sure that he could not sit or lean. He was confined for three hours."
What makes this worse is that from what I've read, Leach has not denied this treatment of the player.
It's time for Texas Tech to do what Kansas did, and get rid of these negative coaches. Don't get me started on why Mark Mangino had no business running a college football program.
Frankly, I think that major college football is out of control. There is now so much emphasis on winning at any and all costs, that whatever guise of academics is not even worried about any more. Coaches are encouraged to cheat because if they can't win, they won't have a job. Just look at the payouts that the bowls are paying. $17 million for a BCS game. $2.25 million for the Alamo Bowl that Tech is playing in. $3 million for the Cotton Bowl. That's some serious money for these schools and conferences.
Major college football does not have to be this way. Morals and ethics can be restored, and programs can still win. We don't have to have Bear Bryant-types taking their teams to the heat of Junction, and denying them water. We don't have to punish kids because they are hurt.
We need more college coaches that are like Sam Harrell at Ennis High School, or Tim Buchanan at Aledo High School. These are two men who hold ethics and sportsmanship in the highest regard. They breed winning teams, and build great men, not just athletes.
Or how about Ronnie Gage at Austin College, in Sherman, Texas. Coach Gage left high school coaching to become athletic director, but loved the game so much he left, and went to the Division III school. He had a situation in which an assistant coach went out of control at a road game in an open air press box, and was letting expletives fly everywhere. That coach was removed after the game.
We need coaches in the college game that garner respect, not those like Leach who are court jesters. Leach has made Texas Tech a good football program, but he has also made Tech a laughing stock.
But yet, many, if not most, Tech fans are already clamoring for Leach to be reinstated. They don't care about the players, they just want to see a win, and they don't care who gets hurt along the way.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Is the NFL friendly to High School football?
This Saturday, Fox Sports SW will air the class 5A football championships from the Alamodome in San Antonio. Euless Trinity will meet Austin Westlake at 2 pm for the Division I final, and the Abilene Eagles meet Katy for the Division II title at 7 pm.
7pm also happens to be the time that the Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints play on the NFL Network (a game that will air in the DFW market on KTXA-21).
This is the second year in a row that the NFL has put a Dallas Cowboys game on the Saturday night of the UIL football championships.
I don't understand why the NFL has to do this. It's not like the UIL dates aren't known when the NFL schedule is put together. Jerry Jones (owner of the Dallas Cowboys) has always been friendly to high schools, as evidenced by the hundreds of high school playoff games at Texas Stadium, and the games played so far this year at his new palace in Arlington.
Here in Texas, high school football is big. The two games Saturday in San Antonio will likely draw over 30,000 fans, possibly even into the 40,000 range. There will also be a fairly large television audience for both games, although probably smaller for the 7 pm game, since many fans who have NFL network will probably switch over.
I just don't understand why the NFL has done this to the UIL for the last two years, especially when a game of the stature of Dallas at New Orleans would be an easy fit for Sunday night, or even the Fox nationwide game on Sunday afternoon, but yet, the NFL network rules.
I guess the NFL is saying Bah Humbug! to the Abilene and Katy fans.
7pm also happens to be the time that the Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints play on the NFL Network (a game that will air in the DFW market on KTXA-21).
This is the second year in a row that the NFL has put a Dallas Cowboys game on the Saturday night of the UIL football championships.
I don't understand why the NFL has to do this. It's not like the UIL dates aren't known when the NFL schedule is put together. Jerry Jones (owner of the Dallas Cowboys) has always been friendly to high schools, as evidenced by the hundreds of high school playoff games at Texas Stadium, and the games played so far this year at his new palace in Arlington.
Here in Texas, high school football is big. The two games Saturday in San Antonio will likely draw over 30,000 fans, possibly even into the 40,000 range. There will also be a fairly large television audience for both games, although probably smaller for the 7 pm game, since many fans who have NFL network will probably switch over.
I just don't understand why the NFL has done this to the UIL for the last two years, especially when a game of the stature of Dallas at New Orleans would be an easy fit for Sunday night, or even the Fox nationwide game on Sunday afternoon, but yet, the NFL network rules.
I guess the NFL is saying Bah Humbug! to the Abilene and Katy fans.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Football is a funny game
As you probably know by now, the Ennis Lions, a team that we produce for 106.9 The Ranch, will miss the playoffs for the first time since the 1995 season.
It's been a funny year for Ennis. They started the season as a favorite to not only reach the playoffs, but have a long run towards their 5th state championship. The year started well, with a very convincing 62-16 win over Crosby, a playoff team from Region III, that lost to eventual state runner-up Dayton. Follow that with a hard-fought 36-32 win over a scrappy Lancaster team, and things were looking good.
After a week off, it was a trip to Mesquite to meet the Horn Jaguars. Ennis didn't look very good in that game, and lost a couple of key players in the first half, as both wide receiver Kyle Guinyard and Jyavon King went out with torn MCL's. Guinyard was lost for the season, and King didn't come back til week 8. Ennis went on to lose that game in overtime.
With key starters out, Ennis was unable to win their district opener at Waco, losing 38-25, and then losing the next week to eventual district champion Waxahachie.
Ennis, despite all the injuries, had a chance to make the playoffs in week 10, but lost to Waco University 27-21 to end those hopes. Ennis had lost two more starters before that game, this time on the defensive side, and it was just too much for Ennis to overcome.
A couple of thoughts. First on Crosby. Ennis absolutely dominated Crosby, and we wondered how they could have ever been considered a playoff contender. Crosby lost in week 1 to Port Neches-Groves, but then won 8 in a row to win their district, and advance to post season.
Lancaster was another team that had high hopes, and after a close loss to Ennis on the road looked primed to go, but something happened to this team, and they finished 2-4 in District 15-4A and missed the playoffs.
Mesquite Horn started the year 5-0 against some very tough opponents, but then couldn't win in their district, going 0-4, until the season finale against Mesquite, which they scratched out a win, and advanced to the playoffs with a 1-4 district mark.
Corsicana started 0-4 under new coach Phil Castles, but the team continued to believe, and earned a post-season bid, defeating another surprise team, Cleburne, to advance to post season play.
As for Ennis, its time to reload. D.J. Betik and Kyle Guinyard had been playing catch since grade school, and really thought they would be having a lengthy post season. Alas, that is not to be. Guinyard continues to recover from knee surgery, and hopefully will still get a good scholarship where he can show off his skills next year. Texas Tech already pulled its offer, but guaranteed that another school will pick up a major find.
And then there is coach Sam Harrell. The coach made public his fight against MS just prior to the season starting, and one wonders if he can continue to take the rigors of coaching, while fighting his health. But if you saw Coach Harrell on the field this fall, you could see the spark in his eye, the strength in his handshake, and the drive to continue to be the best. I think Coach Harrell will return next year.
Congratulations to all the teams that will play in the post season. Enjoy it, relish in it, and fight to play the next week.
This is a special time of year.
It's been a funny year for Ennis. They started the season as a favorite to not only reach the playoffs, but have a long run towards their 5th state championship. The year started well, with a very convincing 62-16 win over Crosby, a playoff team from Region III, that lost to eventual state runner-up Dayton. Follow that with a hard-fought 36-32 win over a scrappy Lancaster team, and things were looking good.
After a week off, it was a trip to Mesquite to meet the Horn Jaguars. Ennis didn't look very good in that game, and lost a couple of key players in the first half, as both wide receiver Kyle Guinyard and Jyavon King went out with torn MCL's. Guinyard was lost for the season, and King didn't come back til week 8. Ennis went on to lose that game in overtime.
With key starters out, Ennis was unable to win their district opener at Waco, losing 38-25, and then losing the next week to eventual district champion Waxahachie.
Ennis, despite all the injuries, had a chance to make the playoffs in week 10, but lost to Waco University 27-21 to end those hopes. Ennis had lost two more starters before that game, this time on the defensive side, and it was just too much for Ennis to overcome.
A couple of thoughts. First on Crosby. Ennis absolutely dominated Crosby, and we wondered how they could have ever been considered a playoff contender. Crosby lost in week 1 to Port Neches-Groves, but then won 8 in a row to win their district, and advance to post season.
Lancaster was another team that had high hopes, and after a close loss to Ennis on the road looked primed to go, but something happened to this team, and they finished 2-4 in District 15-4A and missed the playoffs.
Mesquite Horn started the year 5-0 against some very tough opponents, but then couldn't win in their district, going 0-4, until the season finale against Mesquite, which they scratched out a win, and advanced to the playoffs with a 1-4 district mark.
Corsicana started 0-4 under new coach Phil Castles, but the team continued to believe, and earned a post-season bid, defeating another surprise team, Cleburne, to advance to post season play.
As for Ennis, its time to reload. D.J. Betik and Kyle Guinyard had been playing catch since grade school, and really thought they would be having a lengthy post season. Alas, that is not to be. Guinyard continues to recover from knee surgery, and hopefully will still get a good scholarship where he can show off his skills next year. Texas Tech already pulled its offer, but guaranteed that another school will pick up a major find.
And then there is coach Sam Harrell. The coach made public his fight against MS just prior to the season starting, and one wonders if he can continue to take the rigors of coaching, while fighting his health. But if you saw Coach Harrell on the field this fall, you could see the spark in his eye, the strength in his handshake, and the drive to continue to be the best. I think Coach Harrell will return next year.
Congratulations to all the teams that will play in the post season. Enjoy it, relish in it, and fight to play the next week.
This is a special time of year.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
So now what for Ennis?
If you follow the Ennis Lions, you know that they have lost some key components to their offensive team, namely wide receiver Kyle Guinyard, slot receiver Jyavon King, guard Aaron Armstrong, and tackle Hugh Emmert. One other offensive player is hurt, and may not play against Waxahachie this Friday.
Its very tough to win when you lose one key player, much less two, plus two offensive linemen. The Dallas Morning News mentioned that this morning that from the 4A level on down, it gets very tough, because of the numbers game. Ennis is a mid-sized 4A squad, and just doesn't have the numbers of a Southlake Carroll, or even Highland Park, one of the largest 4A schools in the state, and all the great coaching in the world is not going to overcome a loss of key talent.
Ennis still has a good chance to win this year, and make it to the playoffs. A win against a very talented and undefeated Waxahachie squad is going to be tough, but Ennis should be able to handle Corsicana, Midlothian, and Cleburne, and if they can beat Waco University, or Midway, or Hatchie, then the Lions will return to the playoffs.
Sam Harrell has a pretty remarkable record at Ennis. Since he came to the Ellis county town in 1994, the Lions have made the playoffs for 13 consecutive years, and were heavily favored to make it 14 this year. Don't count out Ennis just yet. Coach Harrell has always preached to the kids that any one of them are one play away from starting. That preparation will help Ennis continue their run to a 14th consecutive post season in 2009.
Its very tough to win when you lose one key player, much less two, plus two offensive linemen. The Dallas Morning News mentioned that this morning that from the 4A level on down, it gets very tough, because of the numbers game. Ennis is a mid-sized 4A squad, and just doesn't have the numbers of a Southlake Carroll, or even Highland Park, one of the largest 4A schools in the state, and all the great coaching in the world is not going to overcome a loss of key talent.
Ennis still has a good chance to win this year, and make it to the playoffs. A win against a very talented and undefeated Waxahachie squad is going to be tough, but Ennis should be able to handle Corsicana, Midlothian, and Cleburne, and if they can beat Waco University, or Midway, or Hatchie, then the Lions will return to the playoffs.
Sam Harrell has a pretty remarkable record at Ennis. Since he came to the Ellis county town in 1994, the Lions have made the playoffs for 13 consecutive years, and were heavily favored to make it 14 this year. Don't count out Ennis just yet. Coach Harrell has always preached to the kids that any one of them are one play away from starting. That preparation will help Ennis continue their run to a 14th consecutive post season in 2009.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Are you ready for some district 16-4A?
With fall practices for most of the teams just a few days away, its time to start thinking about high school football in Texas. District 16-4A should prove to be a very competitive district again, and there have been a few changes in the off season that may play a part.
There are two new head coaches in the district, with Phil Castles making the jump from Tyler Chapel Hill to the Navarro county school. Castles will bring a smash-mouth style of football that could be very successful for the Tigers. Ennis fans may remember that almost 12 minute drive in last season's game with Corisicana thanks to the pounding running. Former coach Dave Henigan remains in the area as he takes over for departing coach Gary Mullins at class 5A Grapevine.
Down in Waco, Johnny Tusa, who had been the Waco Lions head coach for 23 years, finally called it quits, and starts retired life. He's replaced by first-year head coach Danny Ramsey, who most recently was offensive coordinator at Cypress Creek.
No other changes in the district, other than this will probably be the final call for Midway's Kent Bachtel. He announced late in the spring that he would be retiring soon. Midway will play all their home games this year at Floyd Casey Stadium as their home field is being completely rebuilt.
One note to Ennis fans is new defensive line coach Bill Dalke. Dalke comes from Burkburnett, where he took the Bulldogs to two consecutive post season trips, and was expected to contend for the district title again as head coach. Dalke told the Wichita Falls Times-Record News that he left Burkburnett so his son would have greater opportunities to play golf. It doesn't hurt that Dalke is a defensive-minded coach that should help a trouble spot for the Lions.
A couple of other changes involve radio broadcasts in the district. Look for Corsicana Daily Sun sports editor Todd Wills to call the games. Todd is currently hosting a show on KAND 1340. He'll be assisted in the booth by Rusty Hitt. Could be a very entertaining broadcast.
The other changes are in Waco, where Midway moves from 88.9 to KBCT-FM 94.5, and Waco High and Waco University move to.. .well, they won't have a radio home this fall for the first time in many years (unless something happens in the next few weeks).
There are two new head coaches in the district, with Phil Castles making the jump from Tyler Chapel Hill to the Navarro county school. Castles will bring a smash-mouth style of football that could be very successful for the Tigers. Ennis fans may remember that almost 12 minute drive in last season's game with Corisicana thanks to the pounding running. Former coach Dave Henigan remains in the area as he takes over for departing coach Gary Mullins at class 5A Grapevine.
Down in Waco, Johnny Tusa, who had been the Waco Lions head coach for 23 years, finally called it quits, and starts retired life. He's replaced by first-year head coach Danny Ramsey, who most recently was offensive coordinator at Cypress Creek.
No other changes in the district, other than this will probably be the final call for Midway's Kent Bachtel. He announced late in the spring that he would be retiring soon. Midway will play all their home games this year at Floyd Casey Stadium as their home field is being completely rebuilt.
One note to Ennis fans is new defensive line coach Bill Dalke. Dalke comes from Burkburnett, where he took the Bulldogs to two consecutive post season trips, and was expected to contend for the district title again as head coach. Dalke told the Wichita Falls Times-Record News that he left Burkburnett so his son would have greater opportunities to play golf. It doesn't hurt that Dalke is a defensive-minded coach that should help a trouble spot for the Lions.
A couple of other changes involve radio broadcasts in the district. Look for Corsicana Daily Sun sports editor Todd Wills to call the games. Todd is currently hosting a show on KAND 1340. He'll be assisted in the booth by Rusty Hitt. Could be a very entertaining broadcast.
The other changes are in Waco, where Midway moves from 88.9 to KBCT-FM 94.5, and Waco High and Waco University move to.. .well, they won't have a radio home this fall for the first time in many years (unless something happens in the next few weeks).
Friday, July 17, 2009
Graham Harrell signs pro contract
Good news out of Canada today, as former Ennis and Texas Tech quarterback Graham Harrell has signed with the Saskatchewan RoughRiders of the Canadian Football League. Here's a link to the story from CBC.
Graham will have his hands full, as the season is already two weeks old, and the Roughriders have an established quarterback, but I think that Graham will have an opportunity to excel in the CFL, and perhaps he can become the next Warren Moon.
No doubt I'll be following the Roughriders.
Graham will have his hands full, as the season is already two weeks old, and the Roughriders have an established quarterback, but I think that Graham will have an opportunity to excel in the CFL, and perhaps he can become the next Warren Moon.
No doubt I'll be following the Roughriders.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Sam Harrell and his newest battle
So I'm on vacation this week, and will be heading to San Angelo (out in west Texas) to see some friends. I was looking on the San Angelo Standard Times website, and found this story about someone very close to me. Sam Harrell, the head coach at Ennis HS has revealed that he has MS. You can read the San Angelo Standard Times story from the Waxahachie Daily Light here: http://www.gosanangelo.com/news/2009/jul/08/ennis-coach-sam-harrell-battles-ms/
I've known and respected Coach Harrell for many many years, and he is the primary reason that I drive 45 miles on way to broadcast Ennis home games (farther when we travel). I think that my color commentator Micah Weaks feels the same way (as he only lives a few miles from me).
We've wondered for the last few years if something was wrong with Coach Sam, but we also know that he is someone who is a fighter, and whatever it was, it would be okay.
Football season will be a bit different, but in all honesty, when I've dealt with coach in the past, he has always treated football as something special, not just the most important thing. Football has its proper perspective with Coach Harrell, and that is something I've learned from him.
I've known and respected Coach Harrell for many many years, and he is the primary reason that I drive 45 miles on way to broadcast Ennis home games (farther when we travel). I think that my color commentator Micah Weaks feels the same way (as he only lives a few miles from me).
We've wondered for the last few years if something was wrong with Coach Sam, but we also know that he is someone who is a fighter, and whatever it was, it would be okay.
Football season will be a bit different, but in all honesty, when I've dealt with coach in the past, he has always treated football as something special, not just the most important thing. Football has its proper perspective with Coach Harrell, and that is something I've learned from him.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Good kids
I had the opportunity last week to work at Camp RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Award). Camp RYLA takes the best and brightest high school seniors-to-be and sends them to a one-week leadership camp. I got to meet some really great kids from all over the Rotary District in our area.
One that caught my attention was a very athletic male that attracted a lot of attention during the week. Quinton Ross, the outstanding Lancaster wide receiver was one of the RYLA campers, sponsored by the Lancaster Rotary Club. I actually got a few minutes to visit with Quinton, and found him to be very personable, and a great leader.
Sometimes we forget the students behind the athletes that we see on the field. Meeting and visiting with Quinton reminded me of that. We have a lot of great citizens that we see on the football field, the basketball court, and the other sports venues.
I told Quinton I looked forward to visiting with him again when Ennis and Lancaster meet up in September.
One that caught my attention was a very athletic male that attracted a lot of attention during the week. Quinton Ross, the outstanding Lancaster wide receiver was one of the RYLA campers, sponsored by the Lancaster Rotary Club. I actually got a few minutes to visit with Quinton, and found him to be very personable, and a great leader.
Sometimes we forget the students behind the athletes that we see on the field. Meeting and visiting with Quinton reminded me of that. We have a lot of great citizens that we see on the football field, the basketball court, and the other sports venues.
I told Quinton I looked forward to visiting with him again when Ennis and Lancaster meet up in September.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Welcome Highland Park to the Archercom Family
This fall, Archer Communications will produce Highland Park football on CNN 1190. The crew you've enjoyed for the past few years will still return, and really, there will be no changes that will be noticible. We're very pleased that Russell Scott and Jim Castellaw will be returning to bring you Scots coverage, and CNN 1190 will continue to air HP Scot games.
Archer Communications is excited about this opportunity to produce HP games, and we hope the many HP fans will continue to enjoy the games.
Archer Communications is excited about this opportunity to produce HP games, and we hope the many HP fans will continue to enjoy the games.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
New Coach at Waco High
After 23 seasons, Johnny Tusa has retired from the coaching world, and now Waco ISD has two new coaches. Matt Carroll will start his second season at University this fall, while 34 year old Danny Ramsey takes the control at Waco High this fall. The Waco Trib has a nice article that was forwarded to me. You can read that article here.
http://www.wacotrib.com/prep/content/sports/highschools/stories/2009/04/09/04092009wacwacohighcoach.html
Corsicana will get a new head coach also, as Dave Henigan is gone after a tough year for the Tigers. I'm personally sorry to see Coach Henigan go. I think he did a helluva job during a down time for athletics in Corsicana.
The other big news is out of Hewitt Midway, as a rebuilding job is underway on Panther Stadium. The facility, which sat 8000, with natural grass is being completely rebuilt similar to the new stadiums seen throughout the area. Seating, press areas, concessions and restrooms will be substantially better. The stadium won't be ready until the 2010 season, so Midway will play their games this year at Floyd Casey Stadium in Waco.
http://www.wacotrib.com/prep/content/sports/highschools/stories/2009/04/09/04092009wacwacohighcoach.html
Corsicana will get a new head coach also, as Dave Henigan is gone after a tough year for the Tigers. I'm personally sorry to see Coach Henigan go. I think he did a helluva job during a down time for athletics in Corsicana.
The other big news is out of Hewitt Midway, as a rebuilding job is underway on Panther Stadium. The facility, which sat 8000, with natural grass is being completely rebuilt similar to the new stadiums seen throughout the area. Seating, press areas, concessions and restrooms will be substantially better. The stadium won't be ready until the 2010 season, so Midway will play their games this year at Floyd Casey Stadium in Waco.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Lets Play some golf!
Just got the release from the Ennis Lionbackers for the annual Football Coach's Classic Golf scramble.
Ennis Lionbacker’s
Football Coach’s Classic
The Lionbackers would like to welcome you and your friends to enjoy a day of golf and camaraderie with them at the 3rd annual Ennis Football Coach’s Golf Classic.
The 4-man Florida scramble event will be held on
Sunday, April 19, 2009 at the Ennis Country Club with a shotgun start at 2 pm. The cost is $75.00 a man, or $300 a team. There will be only one Open flight.
Bring your best 4 players. The field will be limited to only 13 teams total, so get your entry in now.
Call Mike at Ennis Country Club at 972-875-3641
or Gary Fincher at 469-337-9029
or Ronnie Greer at 972-333-9816.
Ennis Football Coach’s Golf Classic
4-man Scramble - $300 per team
Bring your best team
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Ennis Country Club
Shotgun starts at 2:00 pm
check in at 1:00 pm
Lunch served before start
Prize Money for Open Flight
1st place: $800.00
2nd place: $600.00
3rd place: $400.00
*on a full 13 team field
Hole Sponsor $100.00
Hole Sponsors and Team $350.00
I'll be there. Will you???
Ennis Lionbacker’s
Football Coach’s Classic
The Lionbackers would like to welcome you and your friends to enjoy a day of golf and camaraderie with them at the 3rd annual Ennis Football Coach’s Golf Classic.
The 4-man Florida scramble event will be held on
Sunday, April 19, 2009 at the Ennis Country Club with a shotgun start at 2 pm. The cost is $75.00 a man, or $300 a team. There will be only one Open flight.
Bring your best 4 players. The field will be limited to only 13 teams total, so get your entry in now.
Call Mike at Ennis Country Club at 972-875-3641
or Gary Fincher at 469-337-9029
or Ronnie Greer at 972-333-9816.
Ennis Football Coach’s Golf Classic
4-man Scramble - $300 per team
Bring your best team
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Ennis Country Club
Shotgun starts at 2:00 pm
check in at 1:00 pm
Lunch served before start
Prize Money for Open Flight
1st place: $800.00
2nd place: $600.00
3rd place: $400.00
*on a full 13 team field
Hole Sponsor $100.00
Hole Sponsors and Team $350.00
I'll be there. Will you???
Monday, April 6, 2009
Ennis Lions Football Schedule
Just recieved the 2009 Football schedule, which is essentially complete. Ennis will travel to Waco 4 times in 2009, and also travel to Cleburne and Mesquite. The Lions will only have 4 home games this year, but will also play a regular season game at Floyd Casey Stadium in Waco, while Hewitt Midway rebuilds and modernizes their stadium.
Here is the complete schedule:
August 21 Cedar Hill (Scrim.) TBA TBA
August 29(Sat) Crosby (HEB Classic) Waco 7:00 PM
September 4 Lancaster Ennis 7:30 PM
September 11 open
September 18 Mesquite Horn Away 7:30 PM
September 25 *Waco High Away 7:30 PM
October 2 *Waxahachie Ennis 7:30 PM
October 9 *Cleburne Away 7:30 PM
October 16 *Corsicana Ennis 7:30 PM
October 22 (Thur) *Midway Away (Baylor) 7:30 PM
October 30 *Midlothian Ennis 7:30 PM
November 6 *Waco Univ Away 7:30 PM
Crosby is a Houston area school out of district 19-4A. They were 6-5 in 2008, and lost to Brenham in the second round of the UIL playoffs. With Dominic Merka expected to return at quarterback for his junior season, the Cougars could be a formidible foe for game number one in the HEB Heart of Texas Kickoff Classic.
Here is the complete schedule:
August 21 Cedar Hill (Scrim.) TBA TBA
August 29(Sat) Crosby (HEB Classic) Waco 7:00 PM
September 4 Lancaster Ennis 7:30 PM
September 11 open
September 18 Mesquite Horn Away 7:30 PM
September 25 *Waco High Away 7:30 PM
October 2 *Waxahachie Ennis 7:30 PM
October 9 *Cleburne Away 7:30 PM
October 16 *Corsicana Ennis 7:30 PM
October 22 (Thur) *Midway Away (Baylor) 7:30 PM
October 30 *Midlothian Ennis 7:30 PM
November 6 *Waco Univ Away 7:30 PM
Crosby is a Houston area school out of district 19-4A. They were 6-5 in 2008, and lost to Brenham in the second round of the UIL playoffs. With Dominic Merka expected to return at quarterback for his junior season, the Cougars could be a formidible foe for game number one in the HEB Heart of Texas Kickoff Classic.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Golf at Cottonwood Valley
I had the treat yesterday to play a round of golf at Cottonwood Valley, the club course of the Four Seasons Resort in Las Colinas (Irving). And let me tell you it was definitely a treat!
I don't golf as much as I would like to, with my work schedule, and such, so getting the opportunity to play a top notch course is always a blast. When I was full-time radio sportscaster I was able to play the media events for the Nelson, the Colonial, and, when the PGA made a stop in Abilene, the media event there. But I had never played Cottonwood Valley. Here's why I like this course:
1) I'm not a good golfer, but the wide, and fairly straight fairways make even my bad shots look good.
2). The rough isn't
3). How can you not love a green shaped like the state of Texas! (#1). and a sand trap that looks like Oklahoma!
Now playing at Cottonwood Valley is not the easiest thing in the world. It takes an invite, and just booking a stay at the Four Seasons doesn't guarantee that (now, you'll get to play TPC, which is, well, a tournament calibre course).
Bottom line.. if you get to play Cottonwood Valley, play it. It's definitely worth the money.
And if you find my 7 iron that I accidentally left....
I don't golf as much as I would like to, with my work schedule, and such, so getting the opportunity to play a top notch course is always a blast. When I was full-time radio sportscaster I was able to play the media events for the Nelson, the Colonial, and, when the PGA made a stop in Abilene, the media event there. But I had never played Cottonwood Valley. Here's why I like this course:
1) I'm not a good golfer, but the wide, and fairly straight fairways make even my bad shots look good.
2). The rough isn't
3). How can you not love a green shaped like the state of Texas! (#1). and a sand trap that looks like Oklahoma!
Now playing at Cottonwood Valley is not the easiest thing in the world. It takes an invite, and just booking a stay at the Four Seasons doesn't guarantee that (now, you'll get to play TPC, which is, well, a tournament calibre course).
Bottom line.. if you get to play Cottonwood Valley, play it. It's definitely worth the money.
And if you find my 7 iron that I accidentally left....
Sunday, March 15, 2009
March Madness: It's very addictive
I have to admit, I am drawn in by March Madness. While I enjoy college basketball, I'm not a real fanatic, but I usually watch a game every week. But there is something about the NCAA tournament, and the push to get there. I was rooting for Baylor to get a bid, after their great run in the Big 12 tournament, but alas, the Bears are going to the NIT.
But now, I'm a Gonzaga fan. I know they've gone for the last several years, but I still consider them an underdog, and I love to root for the underdogs. Who knows, maybe Stephen F Austin from the Southland Conference will be the Cinderella this year, or perhaps North Dakota State, a Division II power brand new to Division I this year.
I'll have the TV on this weekend, and the internet up watching games from the nation, and wishing that I were at one of those arenas calling the action.
But now, I'm a Gonzaga fan. I know they've gone for the last several years, but I still consider them an underdog, and I love to root for the underdogs. Who knows, maybe Stephen F Austin from the Southland Conference will be the Cinderella this year, or perhaps North Dakota State, a Division II power brand new to Division I this year.
I'll have the TV on this weekend, and the internet up watching games from the nation, and wishing that I were at one of those arenas calling the action.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Is it September Yet?
Well, actually, is it late August yet, because that's when the 2009 football season will officially kick off, with some great college and high school games.
Now that the 2008 season is done (does anyone really care about the Pro Bowl?), we can concentrate on 2009. Jerryland (the new Dallas Cowboy's Stadium) will open this summer, and already great games are on tap, including an ESPN Labor Day opener between the Oklahoma Sooners and Brigham Young Cougars (which, btw, should be a great game between two storied programs).
We wonder which high school will be the first to play in the new palace, and what the atmosphere will be like for those games.
I had a chance to visit with Scott Garner, who does play-by-play for Texas A&M Commerce, an NCAA Division II school about 60 miles northeast of Dallas. TAMUC played a game this past season at the Cotton Bowl (which seats nearly 90,000) against East Central Oklahoma in the first ever Harvey Martin Classic. The game drew 5,697 on a State Fair weekend, and Scott told me that it felt like no one was there. I'm wondering what it will be like when a Celina, or Gainesville will draw when they have a playoff game at the new Jerryland. And will the Battle of the Ax (or is it the Battle For the Axe?... I get them confused) between Lewisville and Flower Mound Marcus draw the crowd to make it look less expansive.
I think playing in the new stadium will be very cool for the many teams that get the opportunity, but Jerryland will make small crowds look exponentially smaller than the same crowd at Texas Stadium. I hope I'm wrong on this one.
Now that the 2008 season is done (does anyone really care about the Pro Bowl?), we can concentrate on 2009. Jerryland (the new Dallas Cowboy's Stadium) will open this summer, and already great games are on tap, including an ESPN Labor Day opener between the Oklahoma Sooners and Brigham Young Cougars (which, btw, should be a great game between two storied programs).
We wonder which high school will be the first to play in the new palace, and what the atmosphere will be like for those games.
I had a chance to visit with Scott Garner, who does play-by-play for Texas A&M Commerce, an NCAA Division II school about 60 miles northeast of Dallas. TAMUC played a game this past season at the Cotton Bowl (which seats nearly 90,000) against East Central Oklahoma in the first ever Harvey Martin Classic. The game drew 5,697 on a State Fair weekend, and Scott told me that it felt like no one was there. I'm wondering what it will be like when a Celina, or Gainesville will draw when they have a playoff game at the new Jerryland. And will the Battle of the Ax (or is it the Battle For the Axe?... I get them confused) between Lewisville and Flower Mound Marcus draw the crowd to make it look less expansive.
I think playing in the new stadium will be very cool for the many teams that get the opportunity, but Jerryland will make small crowds look exponentially smaller than the same crowd at Texas Stadium. I hope I'm wrong on this one.
Monday, January 19, 2009
The Fan, The Ticket, ESPN Radio
Here in the Dallas - Fort Worth market, we have no less than four sports stations. The Ticket, which has been doing sports for over 15 years (KTCK, 1310 AM, and its sub stations), ESPN 103.3, Fox Sports 1460, and new to the market, 105.3 The Fan (what was Live 105.3).
How successful will the newest entry be? It's hard to say. The Fan's main programming hosts have all been part-timers, or other contributors at The Ticket. Now, this is not to say they aren't talented. Ben and Skin are doing afternoons, and their contributions on the Ticket, especially for Mavericks coverage are second to none... however, maintaining a daily show for 48 or so weeks a year is very tough.
The other factor is localism. The Fan will be only the second station to really try the local approach. The question will be how much will CBS spend to make this successful? Will they send their entire crew to the Super Bowl in Tampa? Will they be at Rangers Spring Training, or Cowboy Training Camp? Will they have a crew go with the Stars on a road trip. Frankly, I don't think CBS will invest the money. I think the only reason Cumulus still does is because Susquehanna showed how successful spending a little money could be at the Ticket.
Time will tell, and I wish The Fan good luck.
How successful will the newest entry be? It's hard to say. The Fan's main programming hosts have all been part-timers, or other contributors at The Ticket. Now, this is not to say they aren't talented. Ben and Skin are doing afternoons, and their contributions on the Ticket, especially for Mavericks coverage are second to none... however, maintaining a daily show for 48 or so weeks a year is very tough.
The other factor is localism. The Fan will be only the second station to really try the local approach. The question will be how much will CBS spend to make this successful? Will they send their entire crew to the Super Bowl in Tampa? Will they be at Rangers Spring Training, or Cowboy Training Camp? Will they have a crew go with the Stars on a road trip. Frankly, I don't think CBS will invest the money. I think the only reason Cumulus still does is because Susquehanna showed how successful spending a little money could be at the Ticket.
Time will tell, and I wish The Fan good luck.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Boston College Football
Okay, maybe its just me, but I just can't see wanting to apply for the head football coaching position at Boston College. Besides the fact that I don't have any of the qualifications, lets just look at this story.
As you probably know Jeff Jagodzinski was fired as head coach at Boston College after he interviewed with the New York Jets. Athletic director Gene DeFilippo had threatened to fire Jagodzinski if he went to the interview.
Here is why the firing is wrong. First and foremost, Jagodzinski was invited to the interview by the Jets. His invitation was a direct result of why BC should not lose him. The BC program is a top notch program, and that is due primarily from the direction the head coach has led the school. If anything, DeFilippo should treat the invitation to interview as a compliment.
Second, DeFilippo has just told every coach in the country that BC does not want their coaches to be successful. Think about it. We've all worked for bosses that were micro managers, not even allowing their minions to attempt to better themselves.
Boston College's actions have told quality coaches that they are not welcome. While BC will get a decent coach, I guarantee you it will not be as good of a coach as they could have had before the firing of Jagodzinski .
As you probably know Jeff Jagodzinski was fired as head coach at Boston College after he interviewed with the New York Jets. Athletic director Gene DeFilippo had threatened to fire Jagodzinski if he went to the interview.
Here is why the firing is wrong. First and foremost, Jagodzinski was invited to the interview by the Jets. His invitation was a direct result of why BC should not lose him. The BC program is a top notch program, and that is due primarily from the direction the head coach has led the school. If anything, DeFilippo should treat the invitation to interview as a compliment.
Second, DeFilippo has just told every coach in the country that BC does not want their coaches to be successful. Think about it. We've all worked for bosses that were micro managers, not even allowing their minions to attempt to better themselves.
Boston College's actions have told quality coaches that they are not welcome. While BC will get a decent coach, I guarantee you it will not be as good of a coach as they could have had before the firing of Jagodzinski .
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Welcome to my sports blog
Hello and welcome to my sports blog.
For those who don't know me, I'm the play-by-play voice of the Ennis (Tx) Lions, one of the top 4A football programs in Texas. I also coordinate the high school football coverage for the Texas State Network, and had the pleasure of calling one of the 5A state championship games in Houston a few weeks back.
Tomorrow (Friday), I'll be at the Cotton Bowl watching Texas Tech and Ole Miss play. Texas Tech is lead by quarterback Graham Harrell of Ennis, while Ole Miss has Jevan Snead of Stephenville as a signal caller.
Hope you enjoy this blog, and look for more musings through the year.
John
For those who don't know me, I'm the play-by-play voice of the Ennis (Tx) Lions, one of the top 4A football programs in Texas. I also coordinate the high school football coverage for the Texas State Network, and had the pleasure of calling one of the 5A state championship games in Houston a few weeks back.
Tomorrow (Friday), I'll be at the Cotton Bowl watching Texas Tech and Ole Miss play. Texas Tech is lead by quarterback Graham Harrell of Ennis, while Ole Miss has Jevan Snead of Stephenville as a signal caller.
Hope you enjoy this blog, and look for more musings through the year.
John
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