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'K' BETTERS KNIGHT

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Tuesday, November 15, 2011

NEW YORK

Mike Krzyzewski passed Bob Knight, then spent some special time with his former coach.

The man known simply as "Coach K" became Division I's winningest coach when No. 6 Duke beat Michigan State 74-69 on Tuesday night in the State Farm Champions Classic.

The Blue Devils (3-0) gave Krzyzewski his 903rd win, breaking the tie with Knight, Krzyzewski's college coach at Army and his mentor throughout his professional career.

Junior guard Andre Dawkins had 26 points for Duke, which took control with a 20-1 run that gave it a 61-41 lead with 9:17 to play. Then it was just a matter of counting down the minutes until the celebration could get under way.

With Knight sitting across the court at the ESPN broadcast table, and with several former players in the stands — many able to attend because of the ongoing NBA lockout — Krzyzewski moved to the top of the list in front of a sellout crowd of 19,979 at Madison Square Garden.

Krzyzewski went right across the court to Knight when the game ended. They were cheek to cheek in a hug. Krzyzewski, tearing up, broke away and Knight pulled him back, hands on his shoulders, then one final slap of the shoulder.

"I just told Coach I love him," Krzyzewski said. "I wouldn't be in this position without him. It's a moment shared. I know he's very proud and I'm very proud to have been somebody who's worked under him and studied him and tried to be like him."

It wasn't the Cameron Crazies cheering their coach on after a few nights waiting and sleeping in Krzyzewskiville. But a pro-Duke crowd started to get loud as the Blue Devils took control, as well as the fans from Michigan State, Kentucky and Kansas.

"The basketball gods are good … they put two guys who've done a lot in the game together, special moments, and tonight is another one of those special moments," Krzyzewski said of Knight's presence.


New QB Fabrizio steps in, steps up to lead Durant in prep football

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Brandon Wright, Times Correspondent
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

PLANT CITY — Durant came into this season with a solid offensive line, an emerging tailback in Jarmarlon Hamilton and a sturdy defense.

The only real question for the Cougars was also the biggest question — who would replace Je'Twan Smith at quarterback?

"(Smith) left a big hole," coach Mike Gottman said. "But Nick (Fabrizio) has been able to step right in." Fabrizio, who played a little defensive back and running back last season while serving as Smith's backup, has done more than just step in. The senior signal caller has run for a remarkable 18 TDs while throwing for eight more.

"I give all the credit to my offensive line," Fabrizio said. "They have been opening up huge holes for me and Jarmarlon all season long."

Much like his predecessor, Fabrizio is a run-first QB in Gottman's Veer offense, but the thing that distinguishes the two is Fabrizio's big-play capability.

"(Smith) was explosive and could get you those 20 or 25 yard gains," Gottman said. "But Nick has been able to bust off those 65, 70, 80 yard runs. I don't think he's been caught from behind all year."

Fabrizio and Hamilton have proven to be a formidable backfield combination. Hamilton has run for 1,038 yards and Fabrizio 993. Durant comes into tonight's matchup averaging nearly 300 yards of rushing per game.

After Smith's graduation, Fabrizio knew he would be stepping under center for a good Cougar club. He went to quarterback camps over the summer to hone his craft, and Gottman said the work paid off.

"He did everything he needed to do" he said. "I wish we had him for another year, that's for sure."

All games scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

CLASS 8A REGION QUARTERFINALS

Orlando Boone (5-5) at Plant (9-1)

LAST WEEK: Boone lost to Orlando Edgewater 28-7; Plant defeated Robinson 51-9.

THE SKINNY: Boone won four of its last five games to qualify for the playoffs. But the Braves will have to face a motivated Plant squad that scored 48 points or more in three of its last four games. Plant still stings from last season's state runners-up finish in its mouth, not to mention a shutout loss to Armwood last month. And how's this for playoff potency? Since 2005, the Panthers have averaged 47 points in playoff-opening victories.

CLASS 7A REGION QUARTERFINALS

Brandon (5-5) at Tampa Bay Tech (7-3)

LAST WEEK: Brandon lost to Jefferson 47-19; TBT defeated Plant City 31-28.

THE SKINNY: Brandon struggled in its season finale and will likely be without the services of tailback Tyrell Garner again against TBT. Stopping the Titans do-it-all back Cludner Lecount will be a must for the Eagles tonight, but that could be difficult if linebacker Jesse Chesnut misses the game. Lacount has run for 945 yards and added another 442 on 32 receptions this season.

Gaither (7-3) at Durant (7-3)

LAST WEEK: Gaither defeated Riverview 31-0; Durant lost to King 28-20.

THE SKINNY: This should shape up as one of, if not the, toughest games in the area tonight. Both teams are well coached, have solid defense and explosive players who can turn games around with one touch. Shug Oyegunle leads the Cowboys with 481 yards rushing and has a 92-yard TD to his credit this season, while Carlo Perello has a team-high 32 receptions for 469 yards. Durant will look to homefield and hope the defense can produce big plays.

CLASS 6A REGION QUARTERFINALS

Lakewood Ranch (5-5) at Armwood (10-0)

LAST GAME: Lakewood Ranch lost to Manatee 38-7; Armwood beat King 54-6 on Nov. 4.

THE SKINNY: Lakewood Ranch comes in having lost two of its last three games. Armwood, on the other hand, hasn't lost since reaching the 2010 Class 4A state championship game. The Hawks have all the weapons on both side of the ball and likely won't get tested until at least the third round of playoffs. However, Armwood has to hope the Florida High School Athletic Association doesn't rule guard Jack Lightsey ineligible, which could result in having to forfeit all of its games.

Hillsborough (8-2) at Largo (8-2)

LAST WEEK: Hillsborough defeated Chamberlain 43-15; Largo defeated Gibbs 42-21.

THE SKINNY: This marks the third straight season the Terriers and Packers have squared off in the opening round of the playoffs. Hillsborough won last season while Largo upended the Terriers in 2009. Since a loss to Armwood on Oct. 20, the Terriers closed out the regular season with two wins by a 71-15 margin. Hillsborough RB Anthony Brown ran for 845 yards and 11 TDs this season. Largo, meanwhile, is without its top running back Jarvis Stewart, who injured his hip last month and remains out of action. Packers QB Juwan Brown and linebacker-turned-tailback Harry Brown will try to pick up the slack.

CLASS 5A REGION QUARTERFINALS

Port Orange Atlantic (7-3) at Jesuit (9-1)

LAST WEEK: Atlantic defeated Matanzas 34-20; Jesuit defeated Tampa Catholic 27-10.

THE SKINNY: Jesuit has been on fire since losing its opening game to Plant, ripping off nine consecutive wins heading into the playoffs. Since reassuming the starting QB job at midseason, Tommy Eveld has been outstanding. Eveld completed his first 10 passes last week against TC and finished with three TD tosses. Atlantic comes in on a five-game winning streak and finished over .500 for the first time in the program's history.

Robinson (8-2) at Orlando Bishop Moore (9-1)

LAST WEEK: Bishop Moore defeated Orlando Freedom 35-28; Robinson lost to Plant 51-9.

THE SKINNY: The Knights may still be smarting a bit from that six-touchdown spanking Plant gave them last week. They'll have to regroup quickly as they travel to face a Bishop Moore team that can score plenty of points. The Hornets are on an eight-game winning streak and topped 40 points five times during that run. Robinson coach Mike DePue will be looking for his squad to revert back to its high-energy form from earlier in the year.

CLASS 3A REGION SEMIFINALS

Frostproof (5-5) at Berkeley Prep (10-0)

LAST WEEK: Berkeley Prep defeated DeSoto County 35-7; Frostproof defeated Auburndale 17-14.

THE SKINNY: While Berkeley Prep cruised to its district crown and playoff berth, Frostproof took the most difficult path possible — fighting it out in a three-way Kansas tiebreaker. The Bulldogs had to beat Sarasota Cardinal Mooney and Lakeland Christian in tiebreaker games on Nov. 7. That means that by tonight, Frostproof will be playing its fourth game in 15 days. That could be good news for a Buccaneer lineup boasting QB Destin Nichols (17 TDs, 0 INTs), RB Nelson Agholor (1,484 yards, 23 TDs) and LB Schyler Miles (80 tackles). Another good omen: 20 years ago, Berkeley coach Dominick Ciao guided his first district-title team at Jesuit all the way to the state championship game.

Times correspondent Rod Gipson contributed to this report. Brandon Wright can be reached at hillsnews@sptimes.com.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Josh Freeman says his thumb injury has affected him 'maybe a little bit'

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By Rick Stroud, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman says the sprained thumb on his right throwing hand has affected him, 'maybe a little bit,' in the past three games.

Freeman injured the thumb in the Bucs 24-18 loss to the Chicago Bears in London, a game in which he threw four interceptions. The next week, Freeman said he took two hits on the thumb at New Orleans in a 27-16 loss to the Saints. On Sunday, Freeman was intercepted three times and failed to complete 50 percent of his passes in a 37-9 loss to the Houston Texans.

In the last three games, Freeman has two touchdown passes and seven interceptions.

Freeman was asked if the injury has had any effect on how he can throw or grip the football: "Maybe a little bit,'' Freeman said. "But at the same time, being out there, you can't really make excuses for anything. If you're going to be out there playing, you've got to go out and prepare to play well.

"The Bears game, I kind of strained it. Then, right out of the gate in the Saints game, it gets hit again. Then it gets hit again and again. I'm feeling really good about it because this past week, Houston, I didn't get it hit at all. I mean it feels good. Maybe the Saints were going for it, maybe not. I don't know.''

The Saints notified the NFL office that Freeman should be on the Bucs injury report when they saw him in an interview with the NFL Network wearing a splint on his right thumb several days prior to their game with the Bucs. Freeman has been on the injury report ever since, even though he has not been limited in practice.

Freeman said he threw the ball well in the walk-through Wednesday morning.

"Being out there, you have to play well enough to win,'' Freeman said. "The thumb is continuing to get better, it's feeling great. I'd say nearly 100 percent right now. It's not something I'm concerned about...it's basically normal.''

Wharton Wildcats football team heads to state playoffs

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By Rod Gipson, Times Correspondent
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

NEW TAMPA

Wharton walked off the field after a 37-19 loss against district leader Plant six weeks ago with a 1-4 overall record and what appeared to be a nonplayoff season for the third year in a row.

Boy, how things have a way of changing — quickly.

Coach David Mitchell's team regrouped, won four of its last five games and secured a 5-5 record and the runners-up spot in Class 8A, District 6. Tonight, the Wildcats get their reward: A trip to Orlando to face Dr. Phillips (9-1) in the opening round of the state playoffs.

So just how improbable was Wharton's turnaround?

The Wildcats overcame an 0-2 start, an injured starting quarterback in Chase Litton (concussion) after the first game of the season and a district that included powerhouse Plant, playoff regular Alonso and an improved Bloomingdale team.

Litton only missed one game and got plenty of offensive help from running back Darius Page (1,100 yards) and Vernon Hargreaves (5 TDs this season). Linebacker Rocky Enos led a solid defensive unit as the Wildcats posted wins against the Ravens and Bulls to earn their postseason ticket.

Wharton's last playoff trip in 2008 saw the team advance to the region semifinals.

Meanwhile, other area playoff matches tonight include Plant's pursuit of another title run starting with a first-round matchup against Orlando Boone, Gaither (first playoff appearance since 2008) playing at Durant, Hillsborough traveling to Largo to face a familiar playoff foe, Berkeley Prep hosting Frostproof and Jesuit hosting Port Orange Atlantic.

All games scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

*For information on Hillsborough teams not listed, go to the St. Petersburg Times website at tampabay.com/hometeam.

CLASS 8A REGION QUARTERFINALS

Orlando Boone (5-5) at Plant (9-1)

LAST WEEK: Boone lost to Orlando Edgewater 28-7; Plant defeated Robinson 51-9.

THE SKINNY: Boone won four of its last five games to qualify for the playoffs. But the Braves will have to face a motivated Plant squad which scored 48 points or more in three of its last four games. Plant still stings from last season's state runners-up finish in its mouth, not to mention a shutout loss to Armwood last month. And how's this for playoff potency: Since 2005, the Panthers have averaged 47 points in its playoff-opening victories.

Wharton (5-5) at Orlando Dr. Phillips (9-1)

LAST WEEK: Dr. Phillips defeated Orlando Freedom 56-42 on Nov. 4; Wharton lost to Spoto 35-28.

THE SKINNY: During its season-defining four-game winning streak, Wharton outscored its opponents by an average of 21 points. QB Chase Litton (1,600 yards and 8 TDs) and RB Darius Page (12 TDs) will have to make plays against a stout Dr. Philips defense. The Class 6A state runners up last season, Dr. Phillips is in the postseason for the fifth straight year. Dr. Phillips is led by standout QB Nick Patti, who has committed to Boise State.

CLASS 7A REGION QUARTERFINALS

Gaither (7-3) at Durant (7-3)

LAST WEEK: Gaither defeated Riverview 31-0; Durant lost to King 28-20.

THE SKINNY: This should shape up as one of, if not the, toughest games in the area tonight. Both teams are well coached, have solid defense and explosive players who can turn games around with one touch. Shug Oyegunle leads the Cowboys with 481 yards rushing and has a 92-yard TD to his credit this season while Carlo Perello has a team-high 32 receptions for 469 yards. Durant will look to homefield and hope the defense can produce big plays.

CLASS 6A REGION QUARTERFINALS

Lakewood Ranch (5-5) at Armwood (10-0)

LAST GAME: Lakewood Ranch lost to Manatee 38-7; Armwood beat King 54-6 on Nov. 4.

THE SKINNY: Lakewood Ranch comes in having lost two of its last three games. Armwood, on the other hand, hasn't lost since reaching the 2010 Class 4A state championship game. The Hawks have all the weapons on both sides of the ball and likely won't get tested until at least the third round of playoffs. However, Armwood has to hope the Florida High School Athletic Association doesn't rule guard Jack Lightsey ineligible, which could result having to forfeit all of its games.

CLASS 5A REGION QUARTERFINALS

Port Orange Atlantic (7-3) at Jesuit (9-1)

LAST WEEK: Atlantic defeated Matanzas 34-20; Jesuit defeated Tampa Catholic 27-10.

THE SKINNY: Jesuit has been on fire since losing its opening game to Plant, ripping off nine consecutive wins heading into the playoffs. Since reassuming the starting QB job at midseason, Tommy Eveld has been outstanding. Eveld completed his first 10 passes last week against TC and finished with three TD tosses. Atlantic comes in on a five-game winning streak and finished over .500 for the first time in the program's history.

Robinson (8-2) at Orlando Bishop Moore (9-1)

LAST WEEK: Bishop Moore defeated Orlando Freedom 35-28; Robinson lost to Plant 51-9.

THE SKINNY: The Knights may still be smarting a bit from that six-touchdown spanking Plant gave them last week. They'll have to regroup quickly as they travel to face a Bishop Moore team that can score plenty of points. The Hornets are on an eight-game winning streak and topped 40 points five times during that run. Robinson coach Mike DePue will be looking for his squad to revert back to its high-energy form from earlier in the year.

CLASS 3A REGION SEMIFINALS

Frostproof (5-5) at Berkeley Prep (10-0)

LAST WEEK: Berkeley Prep defeated DeSoto County 35-7; Frostproof defeated Auburndale 17-14.

THE SKINNY: While Berkeley Prep cruised to its district crown and playoff berth, Frostproof took the most difficult path — possibly fighting it out in a three-way Kansas tiebreaker. The Bulldogs had to beat Sarasota Cardinal Mooney and Lakeland Christian in tiebreaker games on Nov. 7. That means that by tonight, Frostproof will be playing its fourth game in 15 days. That could be good news for a Buccaneer lineup boasting QB Destin Nichols (17 TDs, 0 INTs), RB Nelson Agholor (1,484 yards, 23 TDs) and LB Schyler Miles (80 tackles). Another good omen: 20 years ago, Berkeley coach Dominick Ciao guided his first district-title team at Jesuit all the way to the state championship game.

Tampa Bay Rays manager Joe Maddon named American League Manager of the Year

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By Joe Smith, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Tampa Bay Rays manager Joe Maddon was nearly unanimously picked as the American League Manager of the Year, the Baseball Writers' Association of America announced Wednesday afternoon.

Maddon, who also won the award in 2008, was listed first on 26 of the 28 ballots cast by two writers in each league city. Tigers manager Jim Leyland and Texas manager Ron Washington each took a first place vote and finished second and third, respectively.

"On an individual basis, I'm blown away by it," Maddon said. "To think this would happen twice in four years for me is very gratifying to me."

Maddon, 57, led the Rays on a spectacular September comeback from nine games down in the wild card standings to make their fourth playoff appearance in four seasons. The nine-game gap behind the Red Sox was the largest in September overcome by a team to qualify for the postseason. The Rays started the season 0-6, but Maddon kept his faith, and set the tone with players.

"In September, the players might have been the only people in the world that were believing the stuff that he was saying," righthander James Shields quipped. "He believed in us."

Maddon said it was an "organizational award," that it "speaks to the culture that we created and the system we created," giving credit to principal owner Stuart Sternberg, executive VP Andrew Friedman to the entire scouting and minor league staff.

"If you had this kind of support and this kind of help, for guys like me to win an award like this becomes somewhat easier," Maddon said.

It's that support system and structure that are reasons Maddon doesn't want to go anywhere else, though he admitted it was "surreal" to be mentioned as potential candidates for the Cardinals, Red Sox and Cubs openings. Maddon is entering the final year of his contract, but it appears he's here for the long haul.

"A better place to work? I don't think one exists in baseball," Maddon said. "My goal has been to make the Rays into the next century's Yankees, Cardinals, Red Sox..And the more appealing thing to me is to create that kind of tradition here that can be viewed on 50 years from now as being the genesis of that. That, to me, is really an exciting thought."

Maddon won the award in 2008, when he led the Rays on their improbable run to the World Series. But it could be argued he did an even better job this season, considering how the team lost stars like LF Carl Crawford, 1B Carlos Pena and nearly the entire bullpen heading into the season. The team's expected designated hitter, Manny Ramirez, retired a week into the year rather than accept a 100-game suspension by MLB for violating the league's policy on performance enhancing drugs. The Rays missed their best hitter, Evan Longoria, for over a month early in the season, and lost their first six games.

Maddon said while the 2008 broke a lot of "negative barriers," and created a culture, with this past season validating it.

"There really might have been less expecations this year than in 2008," Maddon said. "For us to come through the way we did and have the dramatic finish that we did. This is the fact the culture of 2008 works, the system that established in 2008 works, so that you can maybe move some people, not worry about the dollar sign and put together a good team that plays the game right, plays the game hard."

He becomes the seventh multi-winner of the award, joining Tony La Russa (three times in AL, once in NL), and two-time AL winners Sparky Anderson, Joe Torre, Lou Piniella, Buck Showalter and Mike Scioscia.

The one BBWAA voter who left Maddon off the ballot was Chris Assenheimer, Elyria Chronicle-Telegram in Clev. chapter. His ballot: Leyland, Girardi, Acta. The only BBWA voter who had Maddon second was Drew Davison, of Fort Worth Star-Telegram. His ballot: Washington, Maddon, Leyland.

But for many, this one was a no-doubter.

"Joe is awesome — I couldn't ask for a better manager to play for," Rays righthander Jeremy Hellickson said. He's so laid back, is definitely a players coach, and gets along with us all so well. He's always going out of his way to say something to us. When we were 0-6, he was right there telling us we were the best team in baseball. It really helps to have a manager like Joe."

Joe Smith can be reached at joesmith@sptimes.com

Junior Circuit Tennis players compete at Southern Hills Plantation

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By Derek J. LaRiviere, Times Correspondent
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

The Junior Circuit Tennis Series had a solid turnout for its third event Nov. 5 at Southern Hills Plantation Club in Brooksville.

The day featured tennis professionals Lou Giglio, Rick Scholls, Judy Jeanette and Steve Barnes, who helped organize and coach players. The field drew players from Pasco, Hernando, Citrus and other counties and was split into three divisions: high school boys, middle school boys and high school girls.

Trevor Whitmill of Spring Hill defeated Patrick Deslaurier of Spring Hill in the high school boys division in a close two-set sweep. Whitmill was able to hold through two tie-breakers to win 7-6 (7-5), 7-6 (7-5). Brooksville's Jesse DeWitt won the consolation match to place third.

Brody Summer of Crystal River continued his dominance with a third win in three tournaments, this time over Spring Hill's Sammy DeAngelis for the middle school boys crown. Summer has yet to lose a set in Junior Circuit Tennis play and was flawless again, 7-6 (7-1), 6-0. Coty Willey of Spring Hill placed third.

The girls high school division final was decided between Amber and Madison Gamble, sisters from Lecanto. Both have now won JCT titles after Madison defeated Amber in straight sets, 6-5, 7-6 (7-5). Spring Hill's Robyn Cotney and Sarina Singh are scheduled to play their consolation match Sunday after it was postponed due to injury.

The next JCT tournament is scheduled for Dec. 10 and 11 at Southern Hills. To register, send e-mail to Jeanette at jjeanette3saj@aol.com or call her at (352) 232-0322.

For information, visit Junior Circuit Tennis on Facebook and send a friend request.

RIDE UNITED BIKE RUN: The United Way of Hernando County is sponsoring the Ride United Bike Run for Early Literacy at 10:30 a.m. Saturday.

The event will start and finish in the parking lot of United Way headquarters at 4030 Commercial Way in Spring Hill. Registration is $20, with T-shirts for the first 50 who sign up. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. the day of the run.

In addition to the run, there will be a 50/50 drawing, door prizes and giveaways, entertainment and special guests. Food and beverages will be available. Those who register before 9:30 a.m. will receive an additional chance for a door prize.

Sponsorship opportunities are available. Proceeds will benefit the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. All donations of canned goods will go to Hernando County food pantries.

For information, call (352) 688-2026 or visit unitedway hernando.net.

FILTHY FUN RUN: The Pasco Pediatric Foundation will have its Filthy Fun Run 5K Saturday at the Concourse, 15325 Alric Pottberg Road, Spring Hill.

With an obstacle course built into the race route, participants will crawl through mud, climb over walls and swing from tree limbs to reach the finish line. The Filthy Fun Run is being held in memory of longtime Pasco Pediatric Foundation supporter Dr. Jeffrey Baumrauker.

The race is open anyone 18 or older, regardless of athletic ability. Participants may sign up for different groups, starting every half-hour, the first at 8 a.m. and the last at 12:30 p.m.

The entry fee is $50. A party featuring a band, disc jockey and catering by Buffalo Wild Wings will run throughout the event and is open to racers and spectators. Sponsorships are available.

For information, visit filthy funrun.com or call (727) 863-2266.

SPRING HILL WRESTLING: Spring Hill Youth Wrestling begins a new season Nov. 29.

Youth practices will be Tuesday and Thursday nights at Springstead High School in the wrestling room. Beginners practice will be at 5:30 p.m., with advanced wrestlers at 6:30 p.m.

The cost is $150, and registration will take place at the first practice.

For information, call Eric Swensen at (352) 797-7010, ext. 347, or visit springhillwrestling.com/youth.html.

FIRST TEE GOLF: The Brooksville Parks and Recreation Department will have a First Tee golf event for youth Nov. 23 at the Quarry Golf Course in Brooksville.

All children ages 9 to 17 are welcome to participate for a fee of $10. This one-day outreach event will be from noon to 3 p.m., with a maximum of 20 participants. Preregistration is required, and volunteers are needed.

For information, call Miles Groff at (352) 540-3835.

UMPIRE CLINICS: The Hernando-Sumter Umpires Association has scheduled a set of baseball/softball umpiring clinics.

The clinics are designed to train anyone who wants to become an umpire, and the sessions also can help seasoned umpires improve. Local clinics will take place Jan. 8 and 22 at the Anderson Snow Sports Complex in Spring Hill and Jan. 29 at Ridge Manor Park in Ridge Manor.

The sessions are open to men and women age 16 and older. Registration will begin at 11:30 a.m., with the clinics starting at noon. There is a $20 charge for each participant, and everyone will receive a Major League Baseball rule book, along with other handouts.

Visit hernandosumterumpire.com to register. For information, call (352) 593-6998 or send e-mail to clinics@hernando sumterumpire.com.

ROTARY GOLF TOURNAMENT: The Brooksville Rotary Club will have its 34th annual golf tournament Dec. 7 at Brooksville Country Club at Majestic Oaks.

The event will begin at 1 p.m. with a shotgun start. Players, hole sponsors and raffle items are needed. The cost is $75 per golfer, which includes golf, cart and dinner. Sponsorships start at $150. The field will be capped at 124 players.

For information, call Rob Rogoski or Billy Healis at (352) 799-6974.

CHAMBER HOLIDAY TOURNAMENT: Southern Hills Plantation Club in Brooksville will host the Greater Hernando County Chamber of Commerce's annual holiday tournament Dec. 1.

The event will feature PGA qualifying school conditions. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m.; the shotgun start will be at 8:30 a.m.

Cost for entry is $400 per four-player team. Hole sponsorships are also available. For those who wish to play as well as sponsor a hole, the cost for both is $450. Individual hole sponsorships are $100. The entry fee includes golf, cart, range balls and lunch.

For information, call the chamber at (352) 796-0697 or visit hernandochamber.com.

TOYS FOR TOTS GOLF: Marine Corps League 708 is sponsoring the Toys for Tots Golf Tournament at the Dunes Golf Club north of Weeki Wachee on Nov. 30.

Registration will begin at 8 a.m., with a 9 a.m. shotgun start. The entry fee is $65 per person, including golf, cart and lunch. Hole sponsorships are available for $50. All proceeds will go to Toys for Tots of Hernando County, which provides Christmas gifts to needy children.

For information, call Debbie Forbes at (352) 200-5548.

Contact Derek J. LaRiviere at derekjlariviere@gmail.com or (352) 584-6337.

Florida Gators have reason to fret about Furman

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By Antonya English, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

GAINESVILLE — There was a time not so long ago when hearing Florida's players talk about preparing for Furman as if it was a conference game would clearly be seen as players just trying to be politically correct.

But for a team in the midst of its first losing conference season in 25 years and struggling in all facets of the game, it's more like an excellent idea, because every game is important.

Even Division I-AA Furman 10 games into Florida's season.

"Absolutely, we're treating this like a regular team we play," junior safety Josh Evans said. "We're coming in with the same momentum that we would come in for any other team. We're treating them just as if they're Florida State. It's still a football game. … We've been struggling and we're really coming in hungry to win."

Ordinarily, this would be the kind of late-season, filler game teams might use as an opportunity to get some of its younger, lesser used players some actual game time.

Strangely enough, it's a huge game for the Gators (5-5).

With rival Florida State on the horizon next week, and the Gators sitting at .500, Florida needs a win against Furman to keep its bowl eligibility hopes from riding on the outcome of the FSU game.

"It's (bowl game) very important," senior quarterback John Brantley said. "It's good for the program, good for the school and everything. And it lets us keep playing ball longer, keep practicing. It's just important overall."

It's difficult for the Gators to find themselves in this position, the players keep saying. They are fighting as hard as they can as a team, they insist. If they could just get some of the young players to be more consistent, the story goes, this might all be different. Even Florida offensive coordinator Charlie Weis said he walked out of Tuesday's practice still convinced this team is better than its record suggests.

"I'm coming back (from practice) and I'm talking to one guy saying, 'That's not a 5-5 team,' " Weis said. "But as one of my old mentors said: 'You are what you are.' We're 5-5 for a reason, because we've been too inconsistent at critical times."

The Paladins are 6-4 this season, but those losses include Coastal Carolina and Elon. Florida coach Will Muschamp said none of that matters. For the Gators, losers of five of their past six games, it's about getting back on the field — versus anybody — at this point.

"We get an opportunity to go on the field and play better," Muschamp said. "That's the way I approach it. It's nameless and faceless for me. We go out and look at the schemes and what they do and what match-ups are issues and what we've gotta do in order to win the football game. That's really how I kind of approach it. I don't put an asterisk by certain games and say, 'These are more important than these.' They all count for one. And with our football team right now, we just need to work on Florida. Which I've said that all season, and every week. And work on improving ourselves as a football team and playing well on Saturday."

The Gators have two remaining regular season games to improve, and perhaps show that Weis' theory is correct.

"We have to go out there and prove to ourselves, and prove to everyone, that we're getting better and everything's going to work out," Brantley said.

Antonya English can be reached at english@sptimes.com. Follow her coverage at gators.tampabay.com.

Florida Gators have more at stake than usual against I-AA Furman

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By Antonya English, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

GAINESVILLE — There was a time not so long ago when hearing Florida players talk about preparing for Furman as if it was a conference game would clearly be seen as trying to be politically correct.

But for a Gator team that finished with a losing conference record for the first time in 25 years and is struggling in all facets of the game, it's more like an excellent idea because every game is important.

Even when it's Division I-AA Furman in the 11th game of the season.

"Absolutely, we're treating this like a regular team we play," junior safety Josh Evans said. "We're coming in with the same momentum that we would come in for any other team. We're treating them just as if they're Florida State. It's still a football game. We've been struggling, and we're really coming in hungry to win."

Ordinarily, this would be the kind of late-season, filler game teams might use to get some of its younger, lesser-used players some game time.

Strangely enough, it's a huge game for the Gators.

Sitting at 5-5, Florida needs a win against Furman to keep its bowl-eligibility hopes from riding on the outcome of the following week's game against FSU.

"(A bowl game is) very important," quarterback John Brantley said. "It's good for the program, good for the school and everything. And it lets us keep playing ball longer, keep practicing."

It's difficult for the Gators to find themselves in this position, the players keep saying. They are fighting as hard as they can as a team, they insist. If they could just get some of the young players to be more consistent, the story goes, this might all be different.

Even offensive coordinator Charlie Weis said he walked out of Tuesday's practice still convinced this team is better than its record suggests.

"I'm talking to one guy saying, 'That's not a 5-5 team,' " Weis said. "But as one of my old mentors said, 'You are what you are.' We're 5-5 for a reason, because we've been too inconsistent at critical times."

The Paladins are 6-4, but those losses include Coastal Carolina and Elon. Florida coach Will Muschamp said none of that matters. For the Gators, losers of five of their past six, it's about getting back on the field — versus anybody — at this point.

"We get an opportunity to go on the field and play better," Muschamp said. "That's the way I approach it. It's nameless and faceless for me. We go out and look at the schemes and what they do and what matchups are issues and what we've got to do in order to win the football game.

"I don't put an asterisk by certain games and say, 'These are more important than these.' They all count for one. And with our football team right now, we just need to work on Florida —I've said that all season and every week — and work on improving ourselves as a football team and playing well on Saturday."

The Gators have two remaining regular-season games to improve and, perhaps, prove Weis' theory correct.

Said Brantley: "We have to go out there and prove to ourselves, and prove to everyone, that we're getting better and everything's going to work out."

Antonya English can be reached at english@sptimes.com. Follow her coverage at gators.tampabay.com.


Tampa Bay Buccaneers to limit Albert Haynesworth's workload in practice

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By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

TAMPA — Bucs DT Albert Haynesworth did not practice Wednesday, but general manager Mark Dominik stressed that was by design and not a result of the player's unwillingness.

Dominik said it's actually an effort by the team to be smart with the veteran's workload. He acknowledged there will be weeks where coaches give Haynesworth multiple days off if that's what it takes for him to be ready to go when it matters — on Sundays. He was technically listed on the official injury report as having a knee injury, one that caused him to miss two games earlier this season.

"He's obviously a 30-year old veteran who has played a lot of football in his career," Dominik said.

"... If that means sometime we feel like he needs two to three days off in a row, we're going to do that. ... (There is) no set pattern of how we're going to practice him. We're just going to make sure we keep him in condition and ready to play."

Haynesworth was claimed by the Bucs off waivers last week and, after just two days of practice, played 47 snaps in the loss to the Texans. It was his most extensive workload of the season, having played only sparingly for the Patriots.

Dominik said there's no concern about Haynesworth's missed practice time impacting his ability to learn the Bucs' system. Dominik said what Haynesworth does in the meeting room and in walkthroughs will keep him up to date.

Haynesworth was dogged by questions about his effort and commitment in his last two stops — Washington and New England. But coach Raheem Morris was adamant that neither of those things have been an issue so far in Tampa Bay.

MAKING CONTACT: Morris conducted Wednesday's practice with players in shoulder pads and helmets, rather than the usual helmets, shorts and jerseys, in an effort to intensify the workout. The idea is to create a tone that will carry over to game day and result in a more physical performance for a team that was pushed around by Houston on Sunday.

"For us, it's about the mentality," Morris said. "When guys put their helmets on and shoulder pads on and strap up ready to go, there's a different type of urgency in practice. When you have a young team, you have to do some of those things."

The NFL's new collective bargaining agreement severely restricts how many practices can be conducted in pads. But Morris is allotted one more padded practice before the end of Week 11, and he'll use it today.

FALLING SHORT: The Bucs have long had a uniform standard for measuring the effort of every unit, from linebackers to running backs. On Sunday, many players fell short.

There's been some peer pressure this week to raise the effort level across the board.

"When you talk about everything that goes into a football game, not everything is going to go your way," quarterback Josh Freeman said. "But the one thing you can make sure goes your way every play, (at) every position, is effort. That's really inexcusable for someone to go out and not give 100 percent on every play.

"It's really disgusting."

INJURY REPORT: FS Tanard Jackson (hamstring) missed practice Wednesday and admitted his injury will continue to be a factor.

"A hamstring is a nagging injury," he said. "It doesn't just go away. It goes away with rest. But I'm feeling good."

Elsewhere, LB Dekoda Watson (groin) and DT Frank Okam (calf) also missed practice. DE Michael Bennett (groin) practiced in a limited capacity.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers limit Albert Haynesworth's workload in practice

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By Stephen F. Holder and Joe Smith, Times Staff Writers
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

TAMPA — Bucs DT Albert Haynesworth did not practice Wednesday, but GM Mark Dominik stressed that was by design and not a result of the player's unwillingness.

Dominik said it's an effort by the team to be smart with the veteran's workload. He said there will be weeks when coaches give Haynesworth, 30, multiple days off if that's what it takes for him to be ready to go when on game days.

Haynesworth was listed on the injury report as having a knee injury, one that caused him to miss two games this season.

"He's obviously a 30-year-old veteran who has played a lot of football in his career," Dominik said. "If that means sometime we feel like he needs two to three days off in a row, we're going to do that.

"(There is) no set pattern of how we're going to practice him. We're just going to make sure we keep him in condition and ready to play."

Haynesworth was claimed off waivers from the Patriots last week and after two days of practice played 47 snaps in the loss to the Texans on Sunday. It was his most extensive workload of the season. He played sparingly for New England.

Dominik said there was no concern about Haynesworth's missed practice time affecting his ability to learn the Bucs' system. Dominik said what Haynesworth does in the meeting room and in walkthroughs will keep him up to date.

Haynesworth, who is in his 10th season, was dogged by questions about his effort and commitment in his previous two stops, the other being Washington. But coach Raheem Morris was adamant that neither of those things have been an issue so far.

MAKING CONTACT: Morris conducted practice with players wearing shoulder pads and helmets rather than the usual helmets, shorts and jerseys in an effort to intensify the workout.

The idea was to create a tone that will carry over to game days and result in a more physical performance for a team that was pushed around by Houston.

"For us, it's about the mentality," Morris said. "When guys put their helmets on and shoulder pads on and strap up ready to go, there's a different type of urgency in practice. When you have a young team, you have to do some of those things."

The NFL's collective bargaining agreement severely restricts how many practices can be conducted in pads. Morris is allotted one more padded practice before the end of this week, and he'll use it today.

FALLING SHORT: The Bucs have long had a standard for measuring the effort of every unit. On Sunday, many players fell short.

There has been some peer pressure this week to raise the effort across the board.

"When you talk about everything that goes into a football game, not everything is going to go your way," QB Josh Freeman said. "But the one thing you can make sure goes your way every play, (at) every position, is effort. That's really inexcusable for someone to go out and not give 100 percent on every play.

"It's really disgusting."

INJURY REPORT: FS Tanard Jackson (hamstring) missed practice and said his injury will continue to be a factor.

"A hamstring is a nagging injury," he said. "It doesn't just go away. It goes away with rest. But I'm feeling good."

LB Dekoda Watson (groin) and DT Frank Okam (calf) also missed practice. DE Michael Bennett (groin) practiced in a limited capacity.

Sidney Crosby injury still sticks to Tampa Bay Lightning's Victor Hedman

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By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

TAMPA — Months after Penguins superstar Sidney Crosby was concussed, Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman said he still heard questions.

Even in his native Sweden.

"A lot of guys asked me about the hit," Hedman said. "I said, 'It's tough to explain.' I just finished my hit and that was the end of it for him for that season and the beginning of this season."

The hit, Jan. 5 in Pittsburgh, was more a shove from behind — though Hedman did leave his feet — but it was enough that Crosby's head hit the glass. He hasn't played since.

The story got new life with word Crosby, who has been cleared for contact for a month, will not be in the lineup tonight at the St. Pete Times Forum.

And on Wednesday, Hedman said, "You don't want to be on the spot where you end someone's career. But he's on the way back and that's a good thing to see."

What Hedman did not mention — and it is integral to the story — is the hit to the head Crosby took four days earlier from then-Capitals center David Steckel; a blind-side shoulder shot so vicious it is difficult to believe Crosby's concussion problem did not start there.

But the center kept playing. That set up the encounter with Hedman — portrayed by some in the media as the player who ended Crosby's season and who was booed in Pittsburgh during the playoffs — and more than 10 months waiting for his return.

"I think everyone in the league and our team wants to see him play," Lightning center Nate Thompson said. "I think it makes every team better when he's playing. It makes everyone better. It's better for the league. You want a guy like that. You hope for the best for Sid. You don't want him sitting out like that."

"I just can't imagine," said Tampa Bay coach Guy Boucher, who coached Crosby in juniors, "what his life is like without being able to play."

Crosby's absence won't change how the Lightning approaches the game against the No. 1 team in the Eastern Conference led by left wing James Neal, who entered Thursday second in the league with 12 goals.

Tampa Bay, on a two-game losing streak, has plenty to worry about with its own game, such as a sputtering power play and simply breaking out of the defensive zone, two areas that were major focuses of Wednesday's practice.

"Just worry about our agenda, and that's it," said center Steven Stamkos, who added he "completely forgot" about the possibility of Crosby's return.

"I didn't even think about that, to be honest," Stamkos said. "They're playing really good right now. They've got guys who have stepped up and played well. For us to be in the game, we're going to have to play solid defensively."

As for Crosby, Stamkos said, "Hopefully, he returns soon. He's obviously one of the best players in the league and an exciting player to watch."

"I just told everyone," Hedman said, "I hope he recovers fast."

NOTES: Left wing Ryan Malone (upper body) has a "minimal chance of playing, Boucher said. ... Right wing Teddy Purcell (illness) could be out. ... The new west entrance at the Times Forum will be open.

Damian Cristodero can be reached at cristodero@sptimes.com.

East Bay fishing report

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By Ric Liles, Times Correspondent
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Changing channels: Every year at this time, we as inshore anglers go through a transition because our fish go through a transition. I am referring to the migration our fish make as water temperatures start to cool. This is the time that the rivers, creeks, canals and bayous start to get an influx of marine life. As the temperature of our waters change, so does the location of our fish. Snook are the biggest movers, but we will see more redfish and trout in the backwaters as well.

Bait: One thing to keep in mind as our waters cool off is that our fish will have a slowdown in their metabolic rate. When the metabolism of a fish slows, so does his appetite. One thing I do in the winter is to downsize my bait. Whether you use live or artificial bait, smaller is often better. That is not to say that big baits will not catch fish this time of year because they will, but your most consistent bite will come from smaller bait.

Easy Does It: Another thing that may increase your catch rate during the cooler months is to slow down your presentation. With live bait this can be done by using a weight and keeping the bait on the bottom. To slow down an artificial lure, simply slow down the retrieve. Hopefully these tips will help put more fish on your hook.

Captain Ric Liles can be reached at captainric@msn.com or (813) 601-2900. His website is www.reelsimplefishing.com.

Aaron Rodgers was told by Tampa Bay Buccaneers days before 2005 draft he would be the fifth overall pick

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By Rick Stroud, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

This is the story of how the Tampa Bay Buccaneers let Super Bowl-winning quarterback Aaron Rodgers get away.

It's a loser's lament that is shared by many teams, for sure, as the California star lasted until the Packers selected him 24th overall in the 2005 NFL draft.

But considering the cross-country private workout arranged by then Tampa Bay coach Jon Gruden, the surprise receiver sprung on the 21-year-old Rodgers and the phone call a few days before the NFL draft, well, at least Rodgers was convinced he would be a Buccaneer.

"Jon actually called me, when I was in New York, on Thursday, April 21st, and sounded like at the time they were going to take me with the 5th pick,'' Rodgers said Wednesday.

The Bucs had three quarterbacks on their roster prior to the 2005 draft -- Brian Griese, Chris Simms and Luke McCown. Veteran Tim Rattay was added before the trading deadline from the 49ers.

With Utah's Alex Smith and Cal's Rodgers considered the top two quarterbacks in the draft, Gruden, quarterbacks coach Paul Hackett and general manager Bruce Allen traveled to Berkeley in the spring of 2005. Jerry Rice, the league's all-time career receiving leader, had played for Gruden and Allen with the Oakland Raiders and lived in the Bay Area.

They arranged a meeting and private workout with Rodgers, and after watching film, told him the the guy he would be throwing footballs to would be a surprise.

"Back in 2005, I think it was maybe April or late March, Jon came out with Paul Hackett and said he had a surprise for me after we kind of watched some film and talked some ball,'' Rodgers said. "One of my childhood, favorite players, being a huge 49ers fan growing up, Jerry Rice comes walking down the steps and I get to throw passes to him.

"Think about a 21-year-old kid throwing to one of your idols, how nervous you think you would be, I was that and then some. I overthrew him a couple times, but it was exciting to be able to throw to him and to work with Jon and Paul, great coaches, who had been around the game a long time.''

The rest, as they say, is history. Two days after telephoning Rodgers, the Bucs used the No. 5 overall pick to take Auburn running back Cadillac Williams, who became the NFL's Rookie of the Year before two knee injuries sabotaged his career. (Smith went No. 1 overall to the 49ers). Rodgers was selected by the Packers, sat four years behind Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre, won a Super Bowl last season and has his team off to a 9-0 start heading into Sunday's game against the Bucs at Lambeau Field.

"I don't fault them for taking Cadillac, he had an incredible college career and a great rookie season,'' Rodgers said. "He was slowed down by some injuries. But I don't blame them at all or don't hold any animosity toward Jon and Bruce or the organization. Everything kind of happens for a reason. Looking back on when they came out and visited me in Berkeley, that was one of my top moments in my sports career, being able to throw to Jerry Rice.''

Captain's Corner: Extreme tides hold redfish

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By Neil Taylor, Times Correspondent
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

What's hot: Redfish is plentiful at the extremes of the tides with the possibility of fish feeding throughout an entire tide. With the arrival of fall — and finally some lighter winds — redfish action has exploded.

Tackle and techniques: Medium, light-spinning tackle with light 1/8- to 1/16-ounce jigheads and plastic lures tied to 20-pound fluorocarbon leader helps make long casts to wary fish. The better action of the lighter lures creates more strikes. Both paddletail and jerkbait tails will get their attention. For best results, keep the lure near the bottom in all depths.

Fishing the extreme tides is as simple as up against shorelines on the high tides and accessing the troughs and pockets that hold the fish on the big negative low tides. Access for most on the high tides is pretty easy. Most of the best low-tide redfish areas can be difficult in many bigger boats, but the waders and kayak anglers score big on the negative lows. At the end of the outgoing tide or beginning of the rising water, redfish might tip off their location with their tails waving out of the water. As the tide rises, it becomes more guesswork, but they will continue to move to locations that were previously out of water.

Neil Taylor charters kayak fishing trips in the Tampa Bay area and can be reached at strikethreekayakfishing.com or (727) 692-6345.

United Soccer Leagues brings team to Tampa, joining FC Tampa Bay

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By Eduardo A. Encina, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

TAMPA — Is Tampa Bay big enough to support two professional soccer franchises? That question will arise in 2013, when United Soccer Leagues is slated to bring a team to Hillsborough County.

The USL, organizer of several leagues and based in Tampa's West Shore district, awarded a Tampa-based Pro franchise to UK-based VisionPro Sports Institute, it was announced Wednesday at the Tampa Bay Sports Commission.

VSI also will launch an international youth academy in partnership with the Brandon Flames youth club. In addition, a Premier Developmental League (amateur) team, a Super-20 (ages 17-20) team and a W-League (pro women's) team will begin play in 2012.

Both the USL and VSI are committed to being based and operated in Hillsborough County. USF's Corbett Stadium is an option for a homefield.

FC Tampa Bay, a team in the U.S. Soccer Federation's Division 2 NASL, just completed its second season of existence and is slated to begin the second half of a two-year deal playing at Al Lang Field in downtown St. Petersburg.

USL Pro is a USSF Division 3 league, one level below the NASL, meaning it doesn't meet as stringent standards as Division 2.

"We certainly recognize that there's another professional soccer team that plays out of St. Pete," USL president Tim Holt said. "I would reiterate that this is a Hillsborough County soccer initiative. We think the support for a pro team within Hillsborough County and, to some extent, the neighboring counties — southern Pasco and Pinellas to some extent — is enough to make this sustainable.

"I wouldn't want to say we're competing. I think people would see it that way to some extent. And we don't. We're very focused on our own initiative. If this were just another professional soccer team, it would be different. But it's a different composition"

Holt said the youth academy, which will introduce soccer to youngsters and serve as a pipeline to the Super-20 and Premier Developmental League, will differentiate this club.

VisionPro Sports Institute, which opened its first academy in Spain this year and plans one in Portugal next year, will own and operate all aspects of the academy and its clubs. It is VSI's first soccer venture in the United States.

While FC Tampa Bay president and team owner Andrew Nestor said he welcomed the newcomers, he didn't see the new Pro team as competition.

"I honestly don't think that this market can support two professional teams," Nestor said. "I can't say that I figured USL would want a team in Tampa, but it doesn't surprise me.

"Me personally, if I were just investing in the game and looking at the Tampa Bay market and seeing there was already an NASL team in that market, I would not think it's a good investment to put another team here."

As far as sharing the market, Nestor emphasized that while his club currently called St. Petersburg home, it reaches beyond Pinellas County.

"We're the highest level of soccer in Tampa Bay," he said. "And even though we play in St. Pete and have enjoyed our experience with the city and business owners there, I still see FC Tampa Bay as a team that reached all parts of Tampa Bay."

Eduardo A. Encina can be reached at eencina@sptimes.com.


Game preview: Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Pittsburgh Penguins

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By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Legendary Packer has Parkinson's

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Times wires
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Packers great Forrest Gregg, a man celebrated for his durability on the field, is facing a difficult challenge off it.

Nicknamed "Iron Man" for playing in a then-record 188 consecutive games during his Hall of Fame career, Gregg told the Associated Press he has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

Although the cause of the debilitating neurological disorder is unknown, Gregg, his family and his neurologist say his disease may be related to numerous concussions he suffered during his career in the 1950s at SMU and as a tackle from 1956-71 with the Packers and Cowboys.

Gregg, 78, was diagnosed last month. His symptoms include hand tremors, a stooped posture, shortened stride and softened voice. "I'd like to stop it there if I could," he said.

Gregg said he wanted to go public to promote understanding of the disease and push for more research.

VICK AILING: Michael Vick did not practice because of broken ribs, and it's uncertain whether the struggling quarterback will play when the Eagles visit the Giants on Sunday night.

SHOOTING SCARE: Giants receiver Victor Cruz said he quickly got under a table and stayed down after hearing gunshots at a New York City supper club while celebrating his birthday with teammate Chris Canty and friends. Cruz and Canty were scared but not hurt in the Tuesday morning incident inside the Juliet Supper Club. The shooting was not related to the party.

PACMAN TRIAL: A trial for Bengals cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones in Cincinnati is expected to get pushed back. He's charged with misdemeanor counts of disorderly conduct and resisting arrest for a July incident.

BEARS: Safety Winston Venable signed, and safety Anthony Walters went on injured reserve with a hamstring injury.

BILLS: Stevie Johnson is concerned about his injured left shoulder, leaving the top receiver's status uncertain for Sunday.

BROWNS: Running back Montario Hardesty, who has missed two games after tearing a muscle in his right calf, tested the calf by running outside the practice facility and might play Sunday.

CARDINALS: Quarterback Kevin Kolb tested his injured right foot with some football moves for the first time since he was hurt three games ago. … Tight end Steve Skelton, younger brother of quarterback John Skelton, was signed to the practice squad.

CHARGERS: Pro Bowl left guard Kris Dielman went on injured reserve with lingering effects of a concussion sustained Oct. 23.

CHIEFS: Quarterback Matt Cassel had surgery Monday for a significant tear on his injured throwing hand. Coach Todd Haley still hopes he will be back this season.

JETS: Running back LaDainian Tomlinson was ruled out of tonight's game because of a sprained MCL in his left knee.

PANTHERS: Running back Mike Goodson (hamstring) became the team's 12th player to be placed on injured reserve.

VIKINGS: Eight-year veteran cornerback Benny Sapp was signed to help a depleted secondary.

Legendary Packers "Iron Man" has Parkinson's

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Times wires
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Packers great Forrest Gregg, a man celebrated for his durability on the field, is facing a difficult challenge off it.

Nicknamed "Iron Man" for playing in a then-record 188 consecutive games during his Hall of Fame career, Gregg told the Associated Press he has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

Although the cause of the debilitating neurological disorder is unknown, Gregg, his family and his neurologist say his disease may be related to numerous concussions he suffered during his career in the 1950s at SMU and as a tackle from 1956-71 with the Packers and Cowboys.

Gregg, 78, was diagnosed last month. His symptoms include hand tremors, a stooped posture, shortened stride and softened voice. "I'd like to stop it there if I could," he said.

Gregg said he wanted to go public to promote understanding of the disease and push for more research.

VICK AILING: Michael Vick did not practice because of broken ribs, and it's uncertain whether the struggling quarterback will play when the Eagles visit the Giants on Sunday night.

SHOOTING SCARE: Giants receiver Victor Cruz said he quickly got under a table and stayed down after hearing gunshots at a New York City supper club while celebrating his birthday with teammate Chris Canty and friends. Cruz and Canty were scared but not hurt in the Tuesday morning incident inside the Juliet Supper Club. The shooting was not related to the party.

PACMAN TRIAL: A trial for Bengals cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones in Cincinnati is expected to get pushed back. He's charged with misdemeanor counts of disorderly conduct and resisting arrest for a July incident.

BEARS: Safety Winston Venable signed, and safety Anthony Walters went on injured reserve with a hamstring injury.

BILLS: Stevie Johnson is concerned about his injured left shoulder, leaving the top receiver's status uncertain for Sunday.

BROWNS: Running back Montario Hardesty, who has missed two games after tearing a muscle in his right calf, tested the calf by running outside the practice facility and might play Sunday.

CARDINALS: Quarterback Kevin Kolb tested his injured right foot with some football moves for the first time since he was hurt three games ago. … Tight end Steve Skelton, younger brother of quarterback John Skelton, was signed to the practice squad.

CHARGERS: Pro Bowl left guard Kris Dielman went on injured reserve with lingering effects of a concussion sustained Oct. 23.

CHIEFS: Quarterback Matt Cassel had surgery Monday for a significant tear on his injured throwing hand. Coach Todd Haley still hopes he will be back this season.

JETS: Running back LaDainian Tomlinson was ruled out of tonight's game because of a sprained MCL in his left knee.

PANTHERS: Running back Mike Goodson (hamstring) became the team's 12th player to be placed on injured reserve.

VIKINGS: Eight-year veteran cornerback Benny Sapp was signed to help a depleted secondary.

The NHL's six most powerful people

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By Tom Jones, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Brendan Shanahan

The former NHL star is now the league's new sheriff, in charge of discipline. His primary job is to help decrease head shots — and the concussions that come with them — through suspensions. In this thankless job, Shanahan has become a lightning rod for critics who worry his brand of justice will take hitting out of the sport. As NHL players get bigger, stronger and faster, Shanahan has to find the way to respect the toughness of the game yet make it safe for its long-term health. It's working, so far. Concussions are down by half this season compared to a year ago.

Sidney Crosby

You can debate who is the best player, but there's no question that Crosby is the league's most marketable player. The Penguins star has become the face of the league — this generation's Wayne Gretzky in terms of selling and representing the sport. Crosby's absence has been a blow to the league as no other player has been able to step into his skates as the league's pitchman and spokesman. And the league misses his dazzling skill, too.

Gary Bettman

Fans and even many inside the game seem to despise Bettman. But what does it tell you that his job security remains strong nearly 19 years after becoming commissioner? It means he has the full confidence of his bosses — the owners of the NHL. Old-timers, who seem to loath any kind of change that moves the sport out of the 20th century, complain that Bettman has ruined the sport. While the NHL ranks a distant fourth among the four major North American sports, it does appear to be healthier than when Bettman took over in 1993.

Donald Fehr

There's labor peace in the NHL at the moment. But the current CBA ends in September, and the players now have one of the fiercest negotiators in the business in Fehr, who represented Major League Baseball players from 1983-2009. Remember, it was Fehr in charge of the players when the 1994 strike wiped out the World Series. And it was Fehr in charge of a union that became the most powerful in all of sports. Already, Fehr has made noise that the players gave up a little too much in the last CBA and would unlikely be as compromising for the next one.

Don Meehan

The most powerful agent in the league, Meehan represents more than 120 players, including Lightning star Steven Stamkos. He gets the best deals for his clients yet does it in such a way that he has the respect of the NHL's owners and general managers. Take the Stamkos negotiations. Meehan secured a five-year, $37.5 million deal, but there was no serious drama that Stamkos would leave Tampa Bay. Meehan and Lightning GM Steve Yzerman worked quietly to reach a deal that satisfied both parties. No agent represents more players.

Mario Lemieux

What makes Lemieux so unique is he is a part-owner of an NHL club (Penguins) and one of the greatest players in the history of the game. He not only can relate to owners, but to players. And not just players, but superstars. The Hall of Famer's unique status allows him to talk with authority on a variety of topics, including the difficulties of small-market clubs, on-ice rules and contract negotiations. Therefore he has the respect of everyone in the game.

tom jones' two cents

The Penguins are in town tonight to face the Lightning. But they will do it without star Sidney Crosby, who has missed the past 10-plus months with a concussion. The league desperately needs Crosby to return because he is one of the game's most powerful and influential people. "Those guys fill rinks,'' Lightning coach Guy Boucher said. "And the NHL needs to fill rinks, so it's important he plays as soon as he can. Hopefully, it's sooner rather than later.'' Here is a Two Cents' selection of the six most powerful and influential people in the NHL.

NFL preview capsule: New York Jets at Denver Broncos

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By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer


Wednesday, November 16, 2011

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