BasketballDRE'S TAKE
Opening Night Collects Old Debts
Both of June's finalists lose at home to open the season, the crown gets heavy fast.
· Andre D. Williams
Read storyIndexed locally for search — headlines, people, teams, and short excerpts from reporting originally published in The Morning Call (1998–2010). Full article text on mcall.com; DRE'S TAKE links out and does not republish Morning Call copy.
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Allen product Broyles starring for Pitt
The run for championship medals seems to bring out the best in Brianna Broyles when she’s down to her final attempts. At Allen High, Broyles won the 100-meter high hurdle title in the PIAA Track and Field Championships as a senior. It was her only state title in an illustrious…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland’s Andre Williams speedy back-to-back
During many of his long touchdown runs during the football season, Parkland senior Andre Williams got a good rest before going back out onto the field and trying to go the distance again. Not so in track and field when you run the 110-meter high hurdles and 100 dash, but…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty athletes pick their colleges LETTERS OF INTENT
A standout Liberty swimmer is headed to Duke and two star women’s basketball players have decided to extend their athletic and academic careers at Lehigh and Bloomsburg, respectively. The college decisions were announced at a press conference at Liberty’s art gallery Tuesday…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty athletes pick their colleges
A standout Liberty swimmer is headed to Duke and two star women’s basketball players have decided to extend their athletic and academic careers at Lehigh and Bloomsburg, respectively. The college decisions were announced at a press conference at Liberty’s art gallery Tuesday…
· Andre D. Williams
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Price helps Vols grab gold in 4×800
— Chanelle Price beat Usain Bolt around the Franklin Field track on Saturday. Amazing, huh? But Price, a sophomore distance standout with the University of Tennessee and former Easton All-American, got to take a victory lap an hour before Bolt after she helped lead the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Price recovers from illness to win relay
She was not vintage Chanelle Price. She was strategical. Competing in her first race since suffering a chest infection 10 days ago, Price ran a solid opening leg for Tennessee in the Championships of America 4×1,500-meter relay at the Penn Relays on Friday at Franklin Field. The…
· Andre D. Williams
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TRACK AND FIELD: Danielle Smith is Whitehall’s speedy flyweight.
“I’m 5-3, between 105, 109 pounds,” she said following a blowout win in the 400-meter dash in a tri-meet at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium Monday afternoon. A junior, Smith is in her first year running track and she has quickly gone from a sprinter nobody knew anything…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty’s Lewis threatening records
Liberty senior Stephen Lewis had an unusual Thursday by most early-season track and field standards. But Lewis has his own expectations and they are high and will rise even higher as the PIAA Track and Field Championship weekend nears. On Thursday, during a dual meet against…
· Andre D. Williams
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Talent abounds on area girls track teams
Liberty’s girls track team is just plain loaded, Saucon Valley has a defending state sprint champion who’s even faster this year, Lehighton boasts a multi-event standout, and Whitehall features a vaulting sensation. And because of the all-around strength of defending Lehigh…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hurdlers point toward states
Liberty’s Stephen Lewis is lean and fast. Parkland’s Andre Williams is lean, fast and powerful. Both are outstanding senior hurdlers coming off top five finishes in the Class 3A 110-meter hurdles in the PIAA Track and Field Championships last year. Lewis was fourth in the 110 in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh wants to take next step in tournament
Bruised at heart, the Lehigh women now seek to ease the pain from another lopsided NCAA Tournament loss by preparing for next season. Topping the list goals is winning the Patriot League title a third straight year, extending its 33-game home winning streak, and beating teams…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh men planning a return trip
No tears trickled, no heads hung. A daunting task for Lehigh Thursday night was over in Oklahoma City. Overmatched inside the paint and simply not as gifted as No. 1 Kansas, Lehigh failed in its attempt at history and succumbed like every other No. 16 seed in the history of the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Mountain Hawks battle No. 1 before falling, 90-74
History will have to wait for at least another year. But Lehigh, unruffled by powerhouse Kansas, gave a good shot Thursday night at trying to become the first 16th seed to beat a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. But the the Mountain Hawks, champions of the Pariot League,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh’s run ends in Oklahoma
Lehigh had plenty of fight, but was ultimately wobbled, fatigued and defeated tonight by top-ranked Kansas, 90-74 in an NCAA Tournament Midwest Region first-round game at the Ford Center. Kansas just had too much size, too much second-half kick and denied Lehigh its bid to…
· Andre D. Williams
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History in the making?
The spotlight belonged to Lehigh. The Mountain Hawks were the last team to meet the media and the last team to practice at the Ford Center on Wednesday. But tonight, the Patriot League champions hope to make history by becoming the first 16th seed to beat a No. 1 seed in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh plans to ‘leave it all on the court’
Lehigh boarded a plane from Philadelphia to Oklahoma City on Tuesday morning, wondering not what powerhouse Kansas will do to it in the NCAA Tournament. But what it can do to Kansas. The Midwest Region first-round matchup Thursday night at the Hart Center, after all, is a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh holds final practice before meeting Kansas
Less than an hour ago, Lehigh practiced for the final time in preparation for its NCAA Tournament first-round game against Kansas Thursday night at the Ford Center. Barring the biggest upset in tournament history it was the last practice of this season, but the Mountain Hawks…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh draws No. 1 Kansas in NCAA Tournament
Fear did not enter into the hearts of Lehigh players. Never mind the mammoth challenge ahead in Oklahoma City. Excitement still reigned at Goosey Gander in Bethlehem on Sunday when the Patriot League champion Mountain Hawks (22-10) discovered they will play Kansas (32-2) in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Smith guards way to repeat Lehigh championship
In the sea of Lehigh students, most dressed in brown, some bare-chested, a spirited group known as “Tricia’s Militia” bounced around with a life-size poster of senior guard Tricia Smith. Just the way Smith, a fifth-year defensive workhorse, plays. It’s a relentless stye that her…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh’s Hall, Carrington leaders on and off the court
One game, albeit the biggest of their careers, will not define Lehigh seniors Marquis Hall and Zahir Carrington, All-Patriot League players and all-around good guys away from the court. Sure, Hall and Carrington want to lead Lehigh (21-10) to a victory over Lafayette (19-12) in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Dennis tops in PSAC and region
Kutztown’s Stephen Dennis went two-for-two in major awards on Wednesday, earning the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference East and Daktronics NCAA Division II Atlantic Region player of the year awards. Now, the 6-foot-6 senior guard with the deceptively quick first-step…
· Andre D. Williams
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Mountain Hawks roll over American in semis
LEHIGH79 AMERICAN57 Lehigh senior Dave Buchberger was on from downtown. Freshman C.J. McCollum was on from everywhere. Then, there was senior guard Marquis Hall simply playing an all-around smooth game and senior forward Zahir Carrington rebounding with force. The sensational…
· Andre D. Williams
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It’s down to Lafayette, Lehigh
Lafayette’s Jared Mintz was barefooted, Ryan Willen in flip flops, and their coach, Fran O’Hanlon, had his tie loose. It was easy to be relaxed after what the Leopards accomplished in the Patriot League semifinals on Sunday before a packed and spirited crowd at Kirby Sports…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kutztown comes up short in PSAC title game
Kutztown scrambled, hoping for a miracle run that never came. Indiana University of Pennsylvania was just too strong and poised under pressure in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference final Saturday night at East Stroudsburg University’s Koehler Fieldhouse. It was the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Small stands tall in Lehigh’s postseason run
The Patriot League tournament is now about survival and in the case of Lehigh junior guard Prentice Small, about just getting on the floor and staying on it by any means possible. If that means chasing around the opponent’s toughest guard, so be it. If that means, diving…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh looks to add to record season
Lehigh is on a 13-game winning streak and has the determination to extend it three more games and advance to the NCAA women’s tournament for a second straight year. Lehigh (26-3) opens defense of its Patriot League tournament title in quarterfinal action at Holy Cross in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Heimbach’s hot hand boosts ESU win
East Stroudsburg guard Andy Heimbach’s 3-pointers looked good, felt good and six times swished through the net. Cheyney appeared helpless trying to stop Heimbach in a Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference quarterfinal game at Koehler Fieldhouse. “Once Andy made a couple, I had…
· Andre D. Williams
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Army’s Anthony, Lehigh trio attain Patriot League women’s basketball honors
She’s a double-double performer on the court, an academic scholar off it, and one day Army junior forward Erin Anthony aspires to make good use of her civil engineering degree by helping to build roads or buildings. Right now, she’s building a legacy at West Point. On Tuesday,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Moravian women to host NCAA first-round games
The Moravian women’s players and coaches were presented with long stem red roses on Monday for winning the school’s first Landmark Conference title. On Friday, Moravian (25-2) will begin chase after the school’s first NCAA Division III title. The DeSales men and women, both…
· Andre D. Williams
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Muhlenberg women play the waiting game
It was a run of futility. Muhlenberg scored just one field goal over the final 5 minutes, 11 seconds and was outscored 18-2 by McDaniel in the Centennial Conference women’s championship game Sunday at Memorial Hall. Layups, jumpers, free throws were missed, some on airballs. Bad…
· Andre D. Williams
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Heavyweight looking for redemption tonight
King’s Promotions is having an all-in-one boxing show in Allentown tonight, featuring Allentown against Reading amateurs and two pro fighters from Reading who have a combined 29-2 record. One of them, 24-year-old heavyweight Travis Kauffman, appeared to be on his way to a big…
· Andre D. Williams
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CCHS grad Heimbach continues to shoot up ESU scoring list
E ast S troudsburg University coach Jeff Wilson didn’t have expectations four years ago that Andy Heimbach would provide highlight-reel dunks. Heimbach, a graduate of Central Catholic, is not that type of player. But he is a shooter, the best in East Stroudsburg’s history from…
· Andre D. Williams
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Mountain Hawks face Bison in key Patriot League game
The numbers 94, 81, 85 and 90 were not pulled out of a lottery drawing. They represent the trials of defeat for the Lehigh men in Patriot League play. The Mountain Hawks gave up those point-totals in their four league losses. Lehigh also has eight league wins, tops with…
· Andre D. Williams
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Mountain Hawk women on a mission
T he Lehigh women own Stabler Arena and, seemingly, every team that visits. A 31-game home winning streak validates it and the Mountain Hawks have no intentions on losing on Saturday night against Lafayette in their final regular-season home game. Lehigh (23-3 overall, 10-1…
· Andre D. Williams
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Leopards need consistency, rebounding
F lip a co in in the Patriot League. Lehigh, Lafayette, Bucknell, Navy and defending Patriot league champion American all have a chance to finish the regular season in first place in men’s basketball. Lehigh has the most talent, including the top freshman in C.J. McCollum. But…
· Andre D. Williams
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Local football stars make their college choices official
The decision of where they wanted to play college football had long been made by Parkland’s Andre Williams, The Morning Call’s player of the year, and star quarterbacks Anthony Gonzalez of Liberty and Tyler Smith of Wilson. But there’s still nothing like the day of unrestrained…
· Andre D. Williams
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Stars make it official **Parkland’s Williams, Wilson’s Smith, and Liberty’s Gonzalez, West lead bevy of local football players signing with colleges **NATIONAL SIGNING DAY
The decision of where they wanted to play college football had long been made by Parkland’s Andre Williams, The Morning Call’s player of the year, and star quarterbacks Anthony Gonzalez of Liberty and Tyler Smith of Wilson. But there’s still nothing like the day of unrestrained…
· Andre D. Williams
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Bethlehem native Chuck Bednarik vows to help Eagles from above
— Chuck Bednarik, the Eagles’ Hall of Fame two-way performer, light-heartedly joked about the Super Bowl in the form of a question. “The Super Bowl, that’s a nice name, isn’t it?” he asked, decked out in his Hall of Fame jacket Monday night at the Philadelphia Sports Writers’…
· Andre D. Williams
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Bednarik sees Eagles title — someday **Hall of Famer from Bethlehem says quarterback is the key to make it happen.
Chuck Bednarik, the Eagles’ Hall of Fame two-way performer, light-heartedly joked about the Super Bowl in the form of a question. “The Super Bowl, that’s a nice name, isn’t it?” he asked, decked out in his Hall of Fame jacket Monday night at the Philadelphia Sports Writers’…
· Andre D. Williams
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Writers recognize courage of Koons
Frances Koons, one of the greatest distance runners in Lehigh Valley history, has had no greater triumph than beating cancer and then returning to the track and again succeeding in national races. The former Villanova All-American hopes to compete for the United States in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Writers recognize courage of Koons **Philly sports writers name CCHS grad, a cancer survivor, most courageous athlete.
Frances Koons, one of the greatest distance runners in Lehigh Valley history, has had no greater triumph than beating cancer and then returning to the track and again succeeding in national races. The former Villanova All-American hopes to compete for the United States in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Colonials show they can hang with the best
Respect is not something you’d think would have been hard for Plymouth-Whitemarsh, undefeated and the No. 1 team in the state before Sunday, to earn. But Plymouth-Whitemarsh, led by 6-10 St. Joseph’s-bound center C.J. Aiken, is not nationally ranked, probably wasn’t even given…
· Andre D. Williams
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American pulls away from Lafayette, 76-66 **A 20-11 Eagles run over the final 6:30 dooms the Leopards, who miss 16 of 21 3-pointers.
It’s not all fine and dandy that Lafayette will enter the second half of Patriot League play either in sole possession of first place or tied with Lehigh atop the standings. Never mind that the Leopards were picked to finish last in the league in the preseason. That’s a long…
· Andre D. Williams
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Greyhounds race past Drew, 108-70
Moravian shared the ball with extreme pleasure and scored more than 100 points with ease. It was all about balance as six Moravian players scored in double figures in a 108-70 rout of Drew in a Landmark Conference women’s game Friday night at Johnston Hall. It was also about a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Greyhounds race past Drew, 108-70 **Moravian wins 12th straight, cracks 90 points for the fourth time this season.
Moravian shared the ball with extreme pleasure and scored more than 100 points with ease. It was all about balance as six Moravian players scored in double figures in a 108-70 rout of Drew in a Landmark Conference women’s game Friday night at Johnston Hall. It was also about a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Carrington energizes Lehigh
Lehigh forward Zahir Carrington was already working the paint with vengeance. Then, he rocked the backboard with two dunks within one minute, five-second span in the early minutes of the second half at Stabler Arena, rousing the crowd of 3,849. That really got Carrington pumped…
· Andre D. Williams
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Carrington energizes Lehigh **Senior scores 19 points — including two rousing dunks — in 75-57 win over Lafayette.
Lehigh forward Zahir Carrington was already working the paint with vengeance. Then, he rocked the backboard with two dunks within one minute, five-second span in the early minutes of the second half at Stabler Arena, rousing the crowd of 3,849. That really got Carrington pumped…
· Andre D. Williams
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Already a memorable season for area teams
It seeme d like the Lehigh Valley’s Division II and III men’s and women’s college basketball teams could not top what they combined to accomplish during 2008-09 season. It’s still to be determined since it’s only January and it’s tough to top a season in which the DeSales men…
· Andre D. Williams
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Already a memorable season for area teams
It seemed like the Lehigh Valley’s Division II and III men’s and women’s college basketball teams could not top what they combined to accomplish during 2008-09 season. It’s still to be determined since it’s only January and it’s tough to top a season in which the DeSales men…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kutztown, No. 2 in D-II, benefitted from ‘Nova loss
The only team Kutztown could not floor with its push-it-to-the-metal style of play was Villanova. Several of the big boy Division I programs have had the same problem. So, there was no shame in Kutztown losing, 110-84 on Nov. 5. Besides, it was only a scrimmage, played at the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kutztown, No. 2 in D-II, benefited from ‘Nova loss **COLLEGE BASKETBALL NOTEBOOK
The only team Kutztown could not floor with its push-it-to-the-metal style of play was Villanova. Several of the big boy Division I programs have had the same problem. So, there was no shame in Kutztown losing, 110-84 on Nov. 5. Besides, it was only a scrimmage, played at the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kutztown’s Dennis pours in 42 in to beat ESU **Golden Bears guard goes 13-for-20 from floor, 16-for-19 from line in 87-84 victory.
Ranked No 3 in the country and boasting the top scorer in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference, Kutztown appeared to be in a good situation Wednesday night. Senior guard Stephen Dennis made sure of it, scoring a career-high 42 points, including 13 during a four-minute tear…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kutztown’s Dennis pours in 42 in to beat ESU
Ranked No 3 in the country and boasting the top scorer in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference, Kutztown appeared to be in a good situation Wednesday night. Senior guard Stephen Dennis made sure of it, scoring a career-high 42 points, including 13 during a four-minute tear…
· Andre D. Williams
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ESU, Kutztown in battle of unbeatens
Tonight, the Kutztown and East Stroudsburg men’s basketball teams are expected to engage in a shootout. Perhaps one for the ages, featuring the top two scoring teams in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference. Kutztown averages 85.7 points and East Stroudsburg 84.5. “We’ll…
· Andre D. Williams
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ESU, Kutztown in battke if unbeatens **COLLEGE BASKETBALL NOTEBOOK
Tonight, the Kutztown and E ast Stroudsburg men’s basketball teams are expected to engage in a shootout. Perhaps one for the ages, featuring the top two scoring teams in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference. Kutztown averages 85.7 points and East Stroudsburg 84.5. “We’ll…
· Andre D. Williams
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Nazareth’s Kroboth corners job **Sophomore starts on defense for 9-3 Temple, which plays on ESPN today in EagleBank Bowl.
College football has a new darling — and it’s the Temple Owls. It’s a pretty easy choice. Temple, after all, has not played in a bowl game in 30 years. That drought ends at 4:30 today when the Owls (9-3) play UCLA (6-5) in the EagleBank Bowl at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Price’s decade of dominance **Easton grad owns Pa., national high school records, part of world-record relays in college. **2000 – 2009 THE DECADE **DARK DAYS AND BRIGHT MOMENTS **FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE DECADE
Chanelle Price won with grace and speed. She won everywhere, except the 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials. But Price, the greatest female track and field athlete to ever come out of the Lehigh Valley, will likely get another chance at the Olympics in 2012. “I want to run 1:56, 1:57,”…
· Andre D. Williams
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Iverson fueled Sixers’ run to Finals in ’01 **Though Philadelphia fell to Lakers, he provided impetus for a memorable season. **2000 – 2009 THE DECADE **DARK DAYS AND BRIGHT MOMENTS **NO. 5 REGIONAL STORY
Allen Iverson was the Philadelphia 76ers’ version of Lil Wayne during the 2000-2001 NBA season, using his crossover dribble and fearless drives to make the Wachovia Center rock like a hip-hop concert. Fans jammed the arena while Iverson and the Sixers rolled on the court,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Scott: Big gains, big losses **For better, or sometimes worse, football player Austin Scott dominated the local sports landscape for much of the decade. **2000 – 2009 THE DECADE **DARK DAYS AND BRIGHT MOMENTS **NO. 6 LOCAL STORY
Three games, three carries, 14 yards. That was the extent of Austin Scott’s brief and disappointing experience with the Cleveland Browns in the 2008 preseason, a far cry from what happened nearly every time he touched the ball six years earlier. And for Scott, his ex-coaches Rob…
· Andre D. Williams
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Scott: Big gains, big losses
Three games, three carries, 14 yards. That was the extent of Austin Scott’s brief and disappointing experience with the Cleveland Browns in the 2008 preseason, a far cry from what happened nearly every time he touched the ball six years earlier. And for Scott, his ex-coaches Rob…
· Andre D. Williams
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Eagles defense packs a big punch
The San Francisco 49ers had 13 points in the third quarter Sunday and then the Eagles defense put on the freeze. Pressure, disruption, and unyielding defense then took over, especially in the fourth quarter when the Eagles scored a technical knockout. Running back Frank Gore, so…
· Andre D. Williams
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Defense packs a big punch
The San Francisco 49ers scored 13 points in the third quarter Sunday and then the Eagles defense put on the freeze. Pressure, disruption, and unyielding defense then took over, especially in the fourth quarter when the Eagles scored a technical knockout. Running back Frank Gore,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Moncman applies at Palisades **Liberty football coach, who won a state title in 2008, is not happy with BASD’s support.
Disgruntled over his perception that the Bethlehem Area School District is not supportive enough of his powerhouse program, Liberty football coach Tim Moncman has applied for the head coaching vacancy at Palisades. But he has not resigned at Liberty, one year after he coached…
· Andre D. Williams
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Gym founders want to give kids a fighting chance **Ex-boxers band together to open facility to provide guidance for city’s youngsters.
Two ex-Allentown boxers who spilled their share of blood during their careers, made their return to the ring on Saturday. But it was just to pose for pictures. Luis Melendez, a former lightweight, and Art “Breeze” Baylis, a sparring partner for former heavyweight champion Larry…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton has its hands full with La Salle ** Red Rovers are first District 11 team to meet a Philadelphia Catholic opponent in playoffs. ** PIAA CLASS 4A QUARTERFINALS
Easton was the first District 11 team to play a Philadelphia team in a PIAA playoff game — in 2004 — and the result was a 15-10 victory over Public League champion George Washington. Five years later, Easton will become the first area team to play a Philadelphia Catholic League…
· Andre D. Williams
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Samuel backs up his talking
Asante Samuel makes a lot of noise on the field in practice and in games. His teammates want him to talk, especially since the Eagles’ two-time Pro Bowl cornerback often backs it up. “A silent defense is a scared defense,” Eagles rookie free safety Macho Harris said. “You want…
· Andre D. Williams
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ENERGETIC EASTON PREVAILS **Red Rovers, playing their third game in eight days, claim District 11 Class 4A championship
Easton extended its decade of playoff domination over Parkland Saturday night. And the way the Red Rovers did it was with a punishing attack on both sides of the ball. The Easton defense, tops in the Lehigh Valley Conference with an 8.5 per game scoring average, stopped Parkland…
· Andre D. Williams
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Central takes to the air to fly past Comets **Vikings are held to 69 yards on the ground, but Nosovitch throws for 209 yards and three touchdowns.
It’s time for a Central Catholic road trip out of the Lehigh Valley. It’s been planned for a while. Sophomore quarterback Brendan Nosovitch, often rushed but hardly rattled, helped finalize it with three touchdown passes in the Vikings’ 28-14 victory over Abington Heights in a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton ‘punishes’ P’burg **Led by Justin Pacchioli on offense and Patrick Murphy on defense, Easton wins fourth straight in series, 26-10
It was two-sided domination by Easton. On offense, junior quarterback Justin Pacchioli picked apart rival Phillipsburg with his passing and outslicked the Stateliners’ defense with swift runs in the 103rd Thanksgiving Day meeting between the rivals. On defense, senior linebacker…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland expects Red Rovers to be ready **Trojans in D-11 4A title game against Easton, which will be playing on short rest.
Parkland again knocks on destiny’s door, hoping another star running back can crash through and carry the Trojans to the District 11 Class 4A title. A mean, stubborn Easton defense awaits, fresh off a punishing effort against rival Phillipsburg on Thanksgiving Day. But punishing…
· Andre D. Williams
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Practice on Thanksgiving just fine for Vikes
O utside of playing in a traditional rivalry game today, the next best thing is practicing for a Thanksgiving weekend playoff game. That’s what Central Catholic, the District 11 Class 3A champion, and Parkland, which is in the District 11 Class 4A title game, are doing this…
· Andre D. Williams
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Practice on Thanksgiving just fine for Vikes
O utside of playing in a traditional rivalry game today, the next best thing is practicing for a Thanksgiving weekend playoff game. That’s what Central Catholic, the District 11 Class 3A champion, and Parkland, which is in the District 11 Class 4A title game, are doing this…
· Andre D. Williams
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Practice on Thanksgiving just fine for Vikes
Outside of playing in a traditional rivalry game today, the next best thing is practicing for a Thanksgiving weekend playoff game. That’s what Central Catholic, the District 11 Class 3A champion, and Parkland, which is in the District 11 Class 4A title game, are doing this…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hot On The Gridiron
ARMY 5-6 (Independent) Beat North Texas 17-13 Mike McDermott (Bethlehem Catholic) So. OT, 6-6, 255. Game: Played. BOSTON COLLEGE 7-3, 4-2 (ACC) Lost to North Carolina 31-13 Steve Aponavicius (Easton) Sr. PK, 5-10,. 193. Game: 1-for-1 on PATs; 2-for-2 on FGs, 28 and 20 yards.…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
ARMY 5-6(Independent) Beat North Texas 17-13 Mike McDermott (Bethlehem Catholic) So. OT, 6-6, 255. Game: Played. BOSTON COLLEGE 7-3, 4-2 (ACC) Lost to North Carolina 31-13 Steve Aponavicius (Easton) Sr. PK, 5-10,. 193. Game: 1-for-1 on PATs; 2-for-2 on FGs, 28 and 20 yards.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Bakset struggles lead to loss for Muhlenberg **SCOTTY WOOD TOURNAMENT
The basket did not have a lid on it. It just seemed like it did on 43 of the 59 shot attempts the Muhlenberg women missed in the Scotty Wood championship game Saturday at Memorial Gymnasium. The Mules missed jumpers, short-range and far away, open as well as tightly defended.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton puts away Hazleton, preps for P’burg **Red Rovers face annual Thanksgiving game, title bout against Parkland in a week.
Top-seeded Easton battered and wore down No. 4 Hazleton en route to a 28-6 victory in the District 11-2-4 Class 4A subregional semifinals Friday night at Cottingham Stadium. Easton (11-1) is now faced with its annual improbable task: trying to win three games in eight days. The…
· Andre D. Williams
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Rovers still remember Eachus, Hazleton ** Two years ago, Cougars knocked off Easton in playoff. Tonight, the Red Rovers get a chance for payback. ** DISTRICT FOOTBALL PLAYOFFS
Only two running backs since 2002 have run rampant on the Easton defense. One was Parkland’s Austin Scott in 2002, who carried the Trojans to the PIAA Class 4A title. Two years ago, a less flashy, but more bulldozing back from Hazleton named Nate Eachus ran for 263 yards and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Another postseason run could be in cards for Mule women
The Muhlenberg women’s basketball team tips off its 2009-10 season in the Scotty Wood Tournament today ready to embark on a journey to top the 26-4 record they posted last season and advance further than the NCAA Division III Tournament’s Sweet 16. Five of the top eight scorers…
· Andre D. Williams
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Northwestern football coach Mitchell to step down **After 28 years, 177 victories and three D-11 titles, he’ll coach Tigers in final game Friday.
The beauty of nature in the fall is something Northwestern legendary football coach Bob Mitchell has only heard about over the last three decades. Next fall, he’ll finally get to enjoy it, perhaps holding his grandchild. His daughter Stacey is expected to give birth in February.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Loaded Bulldogs have Final Four potential **DeSales return four starters from team that reached D-III Elite Eight last season.
The DeSales men’s basketball team tips off its season tonight in Center Valley with a tough player with all-around solid skills expected to lead the show. Senior guard Darnell Braswell, who last year became the school’s first NABC first-team All-American, returns with a jump…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
ARMY 4-6 (Independent) Beat VMI 2-17 Mike McDermott (Bethlehem Catholic) So. OT, 6-6, 255. Game: Played. BOSTON COLLEGE 7-3, 4-2 (ACC) Beat Virginia 14-10 Steve Aponavicius (Easton) Sr. PK, 5-10, 193. Game: 2-for-2 on PATs. Season: 34-for-34 on PATs; 7-for-7 on FGs. BROWN 6-3,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Getting back to NCAAs is Bears’ goal **COLLEGE BASKETBALL PREVIEW
No team in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference pushed the ball up the floor faster than the Kutztown men last season and that figures to be the case again. The Golden Bears, who averaged 87.7 points per game en route to a school-best 28-5 record, return senior guard…
· Andre D. Williams
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It’s where you finish for Leopards’ men’s, women’s teams **LAFAYETTE BASKETBALL
Tipoff to the 2008-09 men’s and women’s basketball season for Lafayette comes Friday in a doubleheader at Kirby Sports Center. On Monday night at Lafayette’s basketball media day, men’s coach Fran O’Hanlon and women’s coach Tammy Smith, shared thoughts on the upcoming season and…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
ARMY 3-6(Independent) Lost to Air Force 35-7 Mike McDermott (Bethlehem Catholic) So. OT, 6-6, 255. Game: Played. BROWN 5-3, 3-2 (Ivy League) Beat Yale 35-21 Brendan Gallagher (Parkland) Sr. LB, 6-1, 225. Game: 1 assisted tackle. Season: 8 solo tackles,10 assisted, 2 INTs, 43…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty heads to playoffs after Freedom win **Senior Anthony Gonzalez has stellar final game against rival to end high school career.
Liberty quarterback Anthony Gonzalez displayed elusiveness and speed on his first carry, which he ran 70 yards for a touchdown against rival Freedom Saturday afternoon at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. More impressive dashes followed for Gonzalez in a must-win game for…
· Andre D. Williams
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Playoff picture comes into focus **Easton earns No. 1 seed with win over Bethlehem Catholic
Easton no longer has a chip on its shoulder. Instead, the Red Rovers have a bulls-eye on their chest. That’s because a year after having a 10-year district playoff run ended, Easton bullied to a 9-1 regular season record and finished as Lehigh Valley Conference co-champs with…
· Andre D. Williams
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Something at stake in all final weekend games **Only Allen-Dieruff meeting is without playoff implications, and that one is for pride.
All six Lehigh Valley Conference games this weekend have importance, including the Doughnut Bowl Saturday at J. Birney Crum Stadium between Allen and Dieruff. Both those teams are 0-9. All the other games have playoff implications. Central Catholic (8-1, 7-1) and Easton (8-1,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Golden Bears’ Dennis makes a D-1 statement
The final score, Villanova 110, Kutztown 84 was not anything for the Golden Bears to be disappointed about Thursday night at the Wachovia Center. There were too many other positives, starting first with just having the opportunity to play a scrimmage in a 20,000-seat arena…
· Andre D. Williams
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It’s been a wild ride in the topsy-turvy LVC
Creating a “Wild, Wild East” slogan for Lehigh Valley Conference football may not be a bad idea, especially for this season. It’s been a wild and entertaining season in the LVC and it could end with Easton (8-1 overall, 7-1 LVC), Central Catholic (8-1, 7-1) and Parkland (7-2,…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
BOSTON COLLEGE 6-3(ACC) Beat Central Michigan 31-10 Steve Aponavicius (Easton) Sr. PK, 5-10,. 193. Game: 3-for-3 on PATs, 18-yard FG. Season: 32-for-32 on PATs; 7-for-7 on FGs. BROWN 4-3, 2-2 (Ivy League) Lost to Penn 14-7 Brendan Gallagher (Parkland) Sr. LB, 6-1, 225. Game: 1…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh’s Hall, KU’s Dennis earn preseason awards **COLLEGE BASKETBALL
Two of the area’s top men’s basketball players, Lehigh senior guard Marquis Hall and Kutztown senior guard Stephen Dennis, earned preseason honors on Thursday. Hall, a former Patriot League rookie of the year, was named the preseason player of the year and will try to join…
· Andre D. Williams
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Looking ahead could be very costly **With rivalry week looming and playoffs berths on the line, teams can’t afford to lose focus.
Trap games do exist in high school football. Emmaus, Easton and Liberty will try to avoid them tonight in Lehigh Valley Conference matchups that have District 11-2-4 Class 4A subregional playoff implications. Next week is the traditional rivalry showdowns, featuring Emmaus…
· Andre D. Williams
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Nazareth is a force to be reckoned with
Following six straight seasons of three wins or less, Nazareth’s football team is displaying a new mental and physical toughness this season. Already a winner of four games in 2009, Nazareth is playing tougher football because second-year coach Rob Melosky has refused to listen…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton-Freedom winner will be in district driver’s seat ** Red Rovers, Patriots are tied for first place in Class 4A subregional standings.
The intensity level in the Easton vs. Freedom Lehigh Valley Conference matchup tonight at Bethlehem Area school District Stadium will be so high that a lot of players may be very sore when they wake up Saturday morning. “When Bethlehem [schools] and Easton get together the kids…
· Andre D. Williams
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Richmond-Maine game will have LVC flavor ** COLLEGE FOOTBALL
Former high school quarterbacks from Emmaus and Parkland will meet for the first time in college on Saturday in Orono, Maine. A major streak will be on the line. Defending Football Championship Subdivision champion Richmond (5-0 overall, 3-0 Colonial Athletic Association) enters…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
ARMY 3-3 (Independent) Beat Vanderbilt 16-13 (OT) Mike McDermott (Bethlehem Catholic) So. OT, 6-6, 255. Game: Played. BOSTON COLLEGE 4-2, 2-2 (ACC) Lost to Virginia Tech 48-14 Steve Aponavicius (Easton) Sr. PK, 5-10,. 193. Game: 2-for-2 on PATs. Season: 20-for-20 on PATs;…
· Andre D. Williams
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High-scoring homecomings **Liberty seniors enjoy satisfying moments as Becahi falls
The top two playmakers, Liberty seniors Anthony Gonzalez and Jarrod West, had already made their share of standout plays in their final homecoming game Friday night at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. Senior kicker Jordan Roman then joined in the fun when he booted a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Surging Central looks to remain unbeaten **Vikings host Whitehall. Meanwhile, Liberty and Becahi open Bethlehem city series.
Central Catholic’s bid for the perfect season continues Saturday night at J. Birney Crum Stadium. The Vikings (5-0, 4-0) are the lone undefeated Lehigh Valley Conference team and will rely on sophomore quarterback Brendan Nosovitch, a threat running and passing, to try to topple…
· Andre D. Williams
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Palos restoring the pride at Becahi
Your football program is in serious trouble when its internal problems are just as heavy as its external ones, caused by bickering, losing, and parents trying to market their sons as if they’re free agents. That was the shambles Bethlehem Catholic was in while posting a 4-7…
· Andre D. Williams
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Freedom’s Webb rising to his challenges this year **The speedy back has been racking up yardage and looks forward to the Parkland game.
Freedom senior tailback Darrius Webb is always only one missed tackle at the line of scrimmage from going the distance. That’s because trying to tackle the speedy, elusive Webb is tough once he gets into the open field. He displayed his talents over the previous two seasons at…
· Andre D. Williams
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Fairclough, Vikes have righted their ship
Central Catholic football players and coaches did not dwell on what happened at the end of last season. The Vikings’ parents, on the other hand, probably stewed for a while over the school administration’s decision to reject an Eastern Conference Class 3A playoff invitation.…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
ARMY 2-2 (Independent) Lost to Iowa State 31-10 Mike McDermott (Bethlehem Catholic) So. OT, 6-6, 255. Game: Played. BOSTON COLLEGE 3-1, 1-1 (ACC) Beat Wake Forest 27-24 (2 OT) Steve Aponavicius (Easton) Sr. PK, 5-10, 193. Game: 3-for-3 on PAT, 2-for-2 on FGs of 32, 23 yards.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Intriguing logjam atop conference standings **Four LVC teams have 2-0 marks heading into a weekend of interesting matchups.
It’s Allentown vs. Bethlehem weekend and contender or pretender night in Orefield. There are also Lehigh Valley Conference matchups in Easton and Northampton that figure to be highly competitive. Easton (3-0 overall, 2-0 LVC), Central Catholic (3-0, 2-0), Nazareth (3-0, 2-0) and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton discovers that revenge tastes sweet
No Lehigh Valley Conference team is going to pick on Easton this season. Sounds weird saying “pick on” and “Easton” in the same sentence, but last season the Red Rovers lost five games to LVC opponents by a 112-0 margin. Luckily for the Easton players, coach Steve Shiffert…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
BOSTON COLLEGE 2-1, 0-1 (ACC) Lost to Clemson 25-7 Steve Aponavicius (Easton) Sr. PK, 5-10, 193. Game: 1-for-1 on PATs. Season: 11-for-11 on PATs; 3-for-3 on FGs. BUCKNELL 1-2 (Patriot League) Lost to Cornell 33-9 Anthony Carter (Freedom) So. OL, 6-0, 275. Game: Started. BUFFALO…
· Andre D. Williams
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Undefeated Easton, Parkland meet **The visiting Red Rovers are out to avenge a 26-0 loss to the Trojans last season.
In the previous two seasons, Easton was not a serious contender for the Lehigh Valley Conference title. Last season, without four-year starter and four-year Morning Call all-area defensive back Jarred Holley — now a redshirt freshman at Pittsburgh — Easton didn’t even post a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Chance to be QB leads Gonzalez to Pitt **The Liberty High senior chooses the improving program over PSU, others.
Liberty senior quarterback Anthony Gonzalez got to see a classic Miami and Florida State college football game in person in on Sept. 7. Florida State lost, 38-34, but that’s not the reason Gonzalez won’t be packing his bags and relocating to Tallahassee next fall to play for the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hurricanes have work cut out for them
It’s premature to write Liberty off, despite an 0-2 start and a tough road game to play at Central Catholic Saturday night at J. Birney Crum Stadium. After all, the defending PIAA Class 4A-champion Hurricanes opened up the season losing to state-title contender and established…
· Andre D. Williams
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QUALITY TARGETS **A bird’s nest full of skill position talent and a rebuilt offensive line bring Super Bowl aspirations to Donovan McNabb and the Eagles
Donovan McNabb now has an A-team of offensive talent with a line eager to block, mash and clear the way to help him finally get his finger fitted with the one ring that has eluded him and every Philadelphia Eagles quarterback before him. And that’s a Super Bowl ring. McNabb, who…
· Andre D. Williams
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Getting stress relief **Night out with Larry Holmes and Fan Appreciation Day give Eagles a good feeling. **PHILADELPHIA EAGLES TRAINING CAMP
Former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes is the only man in the Lehigh Valley who almost made Philadelphia Eagles’ offensive lineman Jamaal Jackson melt in his place. Jackson is 6-foot-4, 330 pounds. That would have been a lot of melting. “I had never met a professional boxer,”…
· Andre D. Williams
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Eagles tight end Celek catching on **The third-year player is expected to be a bigger part of the passing attack this year.
At the University of Cincinnati, the game plan for tight end Brent Celek was to block first then block again. That’s usually the main job of a tight end. But the Philadelphia Eagles have discovered that the 6-foot-4, 255-pound Celek also has good hands and can make a nifty…
· Andre D. Williams
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No need to panic **PHILADELPHIA EAGLES TRAINING CAMP
A season of high expectations for the Philadelphia Eagles’ is not totally lost because of the rash of injuries in training camp which may have prevented total chemistry and consistency from being developed. It’s three days before the first preseason game and not three days…
· Andre D. Williams
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Owner of optimism **Eagles owner Lurie says ‘there is a lot to be excited about’ after last season’s strong finish and a productive offseason.
The arrest of defensive end Juqua Parker hours earlier did not appear to dampen the mood of Philadelphia Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie as he made his annual state of the team address Wednesday morning at Lehigh University’s Goodman Campus. Lurie said it was “improper” to talk about…
· Andre D. Williams
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Eagles’ Curtis finally feeling healthy **Veteran wide receiver back in form after battling sports hernia injury.
Kevin Curtis refuses to become the forgotten wide receiver in the Philadelphia Eagles’ offense. He wants to return to the level he reached in 2007, his first season with the team, when he excelled with career highs in catches (77) and touchdowns (8). On Thursday at Lehigh…
· Andre D. Williams
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Eagles now getting a good look at Ingram **The University of Florida tight end has fully recovered from his knee injury and is ready to vie for a spot on the squad.
The University of Florida won the national football championship last season and all tight end Cornelius Ingram could do was watch from the sidelines because of an injury. He tore his anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during practice — on a noncontact play — before the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Eagles mourn loss of a leader **Jim Johnson, the team’s defensive coordinator for 10 years, dies of cancer at age 68.
In the locker room after the Philadelphia Eagles lost the NFC championship game to the Arizona Cardinals in January, defensive coordinator Jim Johnson apologized to the Eagles owner for his defense not coming up with more stops. “Oh my God, Jim, I’ve got the best defensive…
· Andre D. Williams
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McNabb has plenty of help around him **Eagles have added some weapons and some protection for their quarterback
Donovan McNabb enters his 11th season as the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback, closing in on another 30-something club. Actually, a 30,000-something club. The five-time Pro Bowler, who turns 33 in November, enters training camp at Lehigh University on Monday with a stronger cast…
· Andre D. Williams
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5 questions heading into training camp **Westbrook’s injuries, the defense … how will it all play out?
The Philadelphia Eagles fell one game shy of playing in the franchise’s third Super Bowl last season. That they even made it to the NFC Championship Game, following a 5-4-1 start that included a midseason benching of quarterback Donovan McNabb, was impressive. Though they lost…
· Andre D. Williams
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Pink Panther gets lion’s share of attention Friday
The U.S. Women’s Open was stirred by Creamermania on Friday. And Ochoamania. And Kerrmania. Paula Creamer, though, had the most frenzied support as the 22-year-old from Pleasanton, Calif., played with flamboyance during the second round at Saucon Valley Country Club. She was…
· Andre D. Williams
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What nerves? Teenagers tame Saucon **Thompson (71) and Korda (72) conquer early jitters. Combined, the Floridians are 30 years old.
Alexis Thompson and Jessica Korda are too young to expect the world, but both feel like they’re on top of it after un-kid-like first rounds of play at the U.S. Women’s Open on Thursday. Both admitted to being nervous when they arrived at Saucon Valley Country Club for the 64th…
· Andre D. Williams
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Ochoa trying to live up to great expectations **The world’s top woman player has won twice this year, but she expects more of herself as she strives to remain No. 1.
Lorena Ochoa looks so young that she could pass for a teenager. Not an ordinary one, of course, because not many teenagers can afford to walk around wearing an expensive diamond ring, chain and earrings. But Ochoa has earned the finer things in life. She has was a star golfer in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Meet and tweet: Kim’s plan to advance golf **Colorful two-time winner reaches out to fans and also eyes top of leaderboard.
Christina Kim walked onto the Saucon Valley Country Club at the first tee on Monday with a big smile, her father and coach Man Kim following close behind, and a throng of people waiting to hug and share a quick laugh with her. She received a loud ovation as she was introduced.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hurricane set to hit West Coast **Liberty’s Jarrod West agrees to play for Pac-10’s Stanford after graduating next year.
Everything quickly fell in place on Jarrod West’s visit to Stanford University last weekend. Before he left the scenic Pac-10 school in California with his mother and father, West had verbally committed to coach Jim Harbaugh’s Cardinal football program. “When you go to these…
· Andre D. Williams
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After an eventful year, this Street is on the map ** Liberty receiver, an unknown as a junior, earns a scholarship and championships as a senior.
Liberty’s Devin Street has done a lot of eating, socializing and building confidence this week. Tonight, the 6-foot-4 wideout hopes to help Pennsylvania extend its winning streak against Ohio in the Big 33 Football Classic to four games. Kickoff of the 52nd annual game is at 7…
· Andre D. Williams
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Long days no longer faze Lee **Freedom safety having so much fun at Big 33 camp, he doesn’t mind the extra work.
Two-a-day practices have not bothered Freedom’s Jermel Lee this week. He used to hate them during the early days of summer practice back in Bethlehem. But Lee, a Morning Call all-area defensive back last season, has practiced with all-state players from Pennsylvania this week…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty’s Latimer out to prove he belongs with best **The all-area linebacker was not all-state or heavily recruited, but he’s in the Big 33 game.
You do not need to be an all-state player or get a scholarship to a big-name college to get selected to play in the Big 33 Football Classic. Liberty linebacker Horvin Latimer is proof of that. But he was an easy sell to the Pennsylvania coaches, who believe Latimer is capable of…
· Andre D. Williams
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Locals stars out to win Big 33 game **Liberty’s Horvin Latimer and Devin Street, Freedom’s Jermel Lee to lead state against Ohio.
Freedom’s Jermel Lee rolled over, smacked the floor and said to Liberty’s Devin Street, “I’m going home.” Street had just remarked how Liberty beat Freedom twice last season, including 28-14 in the District 11 Class 4A final en route to winning the PIAA Class 4A Championship. “I…
· Andre D. Williams
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Wilson’s Davidson leads the way **The Morning Call boys track athlete of year is first to run sub 48-second 400.
One race on tired legs that Wilson senior Anthony Davidson lost by a slim margin did little to detract from the astounding two-week period he had running the 400-meter dash. No Lehigh Valley sprinter had ever run under 48 seconds in the 400 — and Davidson did it three times over…
· Andre D. Williams
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Becahi, Lombardo strike gold **Hawks capture first place in 400-meter relay
— Bethlehem Catholic sprinter Hansol Song had one thing on his mind before the start of the Class 2A 400-meter relay final in the PIAA Track and Field Championships on Saturday at Seth Grove Stadium. It might have seemed crazy to some. “I was thinking I will break my legs just…
· Andre D. Williams
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Davidson’s aiming high; Becahi boys start strong
Wilson senior Anthony Davidson is on the verge of pulling off a rare feat in the PIAA Track and Field Championships. A year after winning the Class 2A 400-meter dash, Davidson made huge strides toward validating himself as the best in Class 3A at Shippensburg University. Focused…
· Andre D. Williams
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Emmaus, Parkland cruise to boys title game **Southern Lehigh, Nazareth win semifinal games to reach girls final.
Top-seeded Emmaus unleashed shots on goal fast, building a 6-0 lead before the concession stand had even opened up Wednesday at J. Birney Crum Stadium. The Green Hornets stayed on strong attack, led by Dan Kinek and Will Scott, to bombard Easton 15-4 in a District 11 boys…
· Andre D. Williams
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Running into the record book **Wilson’s Davidson dominates
It was cloudy, unseasonably cool and occasionally rainy. The weather, however, didn’t prevent Wilson senior Anthony Davidson and other top District 11 sprinters from blazing to impressive victories in the boys Class 2A and 3A track and field championships on Thursday at…
· Andre D. Williams
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Multiple medalists are possible **Davidson, Brandon, Troxell and others could lead way at two-day meet at Whitehall.
It’s time to run fast, throw far, jump and vault high. It’s time to be better than just good. It’s time to win a District 11 track and field medal, preferably gold. Sprinters Anthony Davidson of Wilson and Bethlehem Catholic’s Tevrin Brandon are confident they’ll achieve their…
· Andre D. Williams
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FLYING HIGH **The Parkland boys track team has dominated with 81 straight dual-meet triumphs and 10 straight league titles.
Combine the number of athletes on the Bethlehem Catholic, Liberty and Freedom track and field teams and it still wouldn’t equal the size of Parkland’s team. The Trojans have 368 male and female participants, a program record. It sometimes makes the Parkland squad look like a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Saucon’s Lombardo takes four gold medals **Allison Vanek of Wilson breaks school and meet record in the pole vault.
Make no mistake, Saucon Valley’s Alyssa Lombardo is young. Just not as young as she was listed in the program for the Colonial League Track and Field Championships on Thursday at Bangor Memorial Park. “They have me listed as a freshman” Lombardo said in a calm and composed…
· Andre D. Williams
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Emmaus girls set school mark in 3,200-meter relay **Liberty’s Cygan wins duel in individual 3,200 run; Nazareth leads team standings.
Motivated to carry her 3,200-meter relay team into her school’s record book, Emmaus senior Lindsey Graybill took the baton and raced the Green Hornets to a convincing victory in the Lehigh Valley Conference track and field championships at J. Birney Crum Stadium on Wednesday.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Henninger, Hightower, Gillette sparkle **Seniors, from Whitehall, Easton and Parkland respectively, win gold.
Whitehall’s Doug Henninger won with strength and Easton’s David Hightower won with speed and crisp hurdling. Then, there was Parkland’s Matt Gillette, who used long strides and a solid finishing kick to anchor the Trojans to victory in the 3,200-meter relay before closing out…
· Andre D. Williams
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Six inducted into football Hall ** Cortez, Diorio, Silock, LaMontagne, Sniscak, Rudelitsch honored.
Rich Sniscak listened in amazement as one inspiring story after another was told. Then Sniscak, the former star Dieruff High football-player-turned-Parkland High football coach/administrator, got his chance to tell stories Friday night at the Lehigh Valley Chapter of the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Freedom’s McLaughlin zoned in as a top sprinter
Freedom senior Dan McLaughlin prepared for the Liberty-Freedom track and field meet Monday by isolating himself before heading to Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. “I went home, listened to my music, tried to get myself psyched for it,” he said. “I was trying to get myself…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty’s Gonzalez gets ‘drafted’ by the Army **Liberty’s QB gets a preliminary invite to All-American Bowl.
Anthony Gonzalez was in Liberty High’s weight room Tuesday afternoon when he was told to take a break by his coach. It ended up being the best break of his life. Three U.S. Army recruiters were waiting for him, very important paperwork in hand. Gonzalez’s teammates crowed…
· Andre D. Williams
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P’burg passes Easton **Kullman, Luke impress Mannings in Gatorade win, 27-12.
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning didn’t have to give Phillipsburg quarterback Keith Kullman any tips. “Our guys had it going on,” Manning said Sunday, following Gatorade’s Replay football game between Easton and Phillipsburg at Lafayette College’s Fisher Stadium. Indeed.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Price part of an American record-setting relay
A nip-and-tuck 3,200-meter relay turned lopsided once University of Tennessee freshman sensation Chanelle Price took the baton for the second leg Saturday. The former Easton High middle distance state and national champion has a history of racing away from the pack. Fueled by…
· Andre D. Williams
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Price, Lady Vols win, Koons anchors ‘Nova to 3rd **PENN RELAYS
It was Tennessee’s Chanelle Price, then Villanova’s Frances Koons, one former Lehigh Valley high school track and field All-American following another. Both had memorable runs in the college women’s distance medley Championship of America relay Thursday at the Penn Relays. It…
· Andre D. Williams
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Most teams still rounding into shape, eyeing bigger meets **TRACK AND FIELD
Nothing’s popping in track and field just yet. Many coaches prefer to keep it that way this early by not having any of their league- and district-title hopefuls pull muscles that could linger the entire season. The more serious meets are the Penn Relays April 23-25 and Allentown…
· Andre D. Williams
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Penn State wins its first NIT **Hurtin’: MVP Cornley’s courage lifts Lions over Baylor.
Jamelle Cornley set the tone for Penn State early with his hustle, scoring, relentless defense and the heart of a lion Thursday night at Madison Square Garden. Talor Battle, scoreless in the first half, came on in the second half, but Penn State’s 69-63 win over Baylor for the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Opening surge carries Penn State **Advance to NIT title game: Nittany Lions grab early, hold off late rally by Irish.
Th ousands of Penn State fans roared throughout and Talor Battle and his Nittany Lions teammates responded with a near first-half knockout of Notre Dame Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden. Back in the NIT semifinals for the first time since 2000, Penn State treated its fans…
· Andre D. Williams
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Nits hoping for better NIT ** Empty feeling: PSU doesn’t want to come home without a title.
Penn State has been to Madison Square Garden four times since 1990 and has three semifinal losses and one championship game defeat to show for it. This year, the Nittany Lions are hoping for a more memorable experience. Senior forward Jamelle Cornley doesn’t see how it will not…
· Andre D. Williams
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Valley-area boys track teams loaded with talent
Wilson senior Anthony Davidson, the 2008 PIAA Class 2A track and field champion in the 400-meter dash, and Palmerton senior Austin Cseh, the state runner-up to Davidson, headline the top boys returners this spring. Newcomer Andre Williams, a junior at Parkland who transferred…
· Andre D. Williams
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Honors for Braswell, Burke **Best of the Bulldogs: DeSales basketball stars named D-III first-team All-Americans.
The DeSales men’s and women’s basketball programs earned a piece of the national spotlight over the weekend during the NCAA Division III’s championship weekend. Darnell Braswell, the ex-Allen High star, wished that it would have been because of what he and his teammates…
· Andre D. Williams
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Troyan is better prepared ** Lehigh’s coach says she’s learned a lot since 1997 blowout. ** NCAA WOMEN’S BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT
The Lehigh University women’s basketball team went on a sightseeing tour of New York City Thursday night. Something unexpected happened. “We went to David and Buster’s and watched American play Villanova,” said sophomore guard Erica Prosser with a sparkle in her eyes on Friday…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kutztown faces tall order in Gannon on its home court **Golden Knights are 20-1 at home, with two wins vs. KU.
The greatest men’s basketball season in Kutztown University history can be extended — or ended — tonight in the NCAA Division II Atlantic Region final at Gannon University’s Hammermill Center in Erie. Coach Bernie Driscoll says it comes down to whether the Golden Bears can…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh gets powerful Auburn **NCAAs: Hawks don’t want short ride leading to quick exit.
It seemed like Lehigh sophomore guard Erica Prosser was standing at the free-throw line, her team down a point with one second left. But she instead was sitting in front of a large television screen among teammates, coaches, school administrators and media watching the NCAA…
· Andre D. Williams
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DeSales ‘dream’ ends with 70-60 loss to F&M; **’Best team in school history’ has sense of accomplishment.
The final buzzer sounded and DeSales junior guard Darnell Braswell froze near half-court. Seconds later, the Bulldogs leading scorer and inspirational leader lifted up and bit hard on his jersey as he walked slowly off Franklin & Marshall’s Mayser Center court. A spectacular…
· Andre D. Williams
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Rich sets benchmark for excellence
Melissa Rich never got discouraged when she went from starting forward her sophomore and junior seasons at Lehigh to a backup role earlier this season. The former Parkland High star just believed that she’d eventually get her opportunity to deliver in the clutch for Lehigh. That…
· Andre D. Williams
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Three Lehigh Valley-area college teams march on
The Kutztown men are back in the NCAA Division II basketball tournament for the first time since 1988, and hope to stick around for a while. In Division III, the DeSales men and Muhlenberg women have reached the “Sweet 16” and hope to continue playing on. The Golden Bears,…
· Andre D. Williams
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An unlikely Valley showdown **Patriot League final: Lehigh, Lafayette women have taken different roads to title game.
It’s Brown and White against Maroon and White. It’s Bethlehem against Easton. For the first time since 1997, it’s Lehigh against Lafayette for the Patriot League women’s basketball tournament title at 6 tonight at Stabler Arena. It seemed like an unlikely showdown when the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh rallies past Army **Strong second half puts Hawks within reach of PL title.
Led by a trio of pesky guards, Lehigh cranked it up and blitzed Army with 14 consecutive second-half points Sunday afternoon. That decisive run enabled the Mountain Hawks to turn a two-point deficit into a 12-point advantage in the Patriot League women’s tournament semifinals at…
· Andre D. Williams
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Slipper fitting well for Lafayette **Cinderellas: Seventh-seeded ‘Pards reach PL final.
March is filled with Cinderella tales and Lafayette is writing its own in the Patriot League women’s tournament. Loser of 10 in a row entering the postseason, seventh-seeded Lafayette turned the seemingly improbable into a reality with its second consecutive win, a 62-55…
· Andre D. Williams
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Favorite Lehigh playing on its favorite court **Mountain Hawks, unbeaten at home, host Patriot tourney.
The Lehigh women’s basketball team essentially climbed to the top of the mountain during the Patriot League’s regular season. Lehigh, led by first-team Patriot League guard Erica Prosser, went 12-2 in league play, which included a 7-0 mark at Stabler Arena. The league wins are…
· Andre D. Williams
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Muhlenberg set for long trek to Polar Bear country
For spring break entertainment the Muhlenberg women’s team gets to take a 430-mile bus trip to Brunswick, Maine, for at least one NCAA Division III tournament game Friday. “Outside of maybe going to Alaska, I’m not sure if there is a place farther away that they would not want…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kutztown rolls into PSAC semifinals **Guards lead the way: Golden Bear men beat Mansfield 97-86.
If one finger roll doesn’t work, try another and another. That’s what Kutztown’s high-scoring backcourt duo, senior Dave Ben and junior Stephen Dennis, did in the final 20 seconds of the Golden Bears’ 97-86 win over Mansfield in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference…
· Andre D. Williams
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Four area teams in D-III hoops dance **NCAAs: DeSales, Muhlenberg and Moravian women, Bulldog men prepare for national tourney.
The DeSales men’s and women’s basketball teams, the Muhlenberg and Moravian women’s teams, are all NCAA Division III Tournament-bound. The DeSales men and women and Muhlenberg women earned automatic berths by winning their conference tournaments over the weekend. The Moravian…
· Andre D. Williams
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Mules keep their intensity and their title **Second straight: Relentless Muhlenberg rolls on.
Hold nothing back, finish strong. That was the message from Muhlenberg coach Ron Rohn to his players with less than two minutes remaining in the Centennial Conference championship game Sunday afternoon at Memorial Hall. Erin McSherry, the 6-foot-1 senior center, then made a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Waylen, others finding solid path to 4-year colleges
There’s no reason a student-athlete with a burning passion to play college basketball has to give up on his dreams just because he does not have the money to attend a four-year institution, or needs to improve his academics before making that important jump. That’s what…
· Andre D. Williams
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Inconsistent Leopards fall to Black Knights **Mistakes hamper Lafayette in 79-59 loss to Army.
Lafayette has a young basketball team that has been on a seesaw ride all season. Four days after an emotional win over rival Lehigh, the Leopards missed a barrage of jumpers, layups and free throws against Army Wednesday night at Kirby Sports Center. The lethargic shooting — not…
· Andre D. Williams
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Inconsistent Leopards fall to Black Knights **Mistakes hamper Lafayette in 79-55 loss to Army.
Lafayette has a young basketball team that has been on a seesaw ride all season. Four days after an emotional win over rival Lehigh, the Leopards missed a barrage of jumpers, layups and free throws against Army Wednesday night at Kirby Sports Center. The lethargic shooting — not…
· Andre D. Williams
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Muhlenberg a perfect fit in Centennial Conference **COLLEGE BASKETBALL
The Muhlenberg College women achieved Centennial Conference perfection. It wasn’t easy. Deadlocked 65-65 with Ursinus in the final seconds last Saturday, freshman guard Alexandra Chili drilled a 3-pointer that lifted the Mules to a 68-65 road win and became the first team to go…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh outmuscles Lafayette with inside depth **Hawks cruise, 73-58, despite missing one of their top players.
It was a Lehigh and Lafayette women’s basketball game that had more falls than a professional wrestling battle royal Saturday afternoon at Kirby Sports Center. The roughhouse play better suited Lehigh, which relied on its height, bench and overall talent advantages to prevail…
· Andre D. Williams
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Muhlenberg men prep for playoffs, hold off Dickinson
There’s nothing like handling your own business. Muhlenberg could have lost its final two regular-season games and still backed into the Centennial Conference playoffs. But the prospect of that did not sit well with the Mules, who relied on balanced scoring and perfect…
· Andre D. Williams
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Muhlenberg women want Centennial perfection **COLLEGE BASKETBALL
It’s imaginable to go undefeated in conference play. It just doesn’t happen too often on any level in college basketball. Which is why the Muhlenberg women, 16-0 in Centennial Conference play, are determined to win at Dickinson tonight and at Ursinus on Saturday to close out the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Area players making last-minute decisions wise ones
Freedom High senior Eddie Mateo was down to the final days and his mind was about made up to sign a National Letter of Intent to attend NCAA Division II Bloomsburg University. All it took was just his signature on dotted lines during Wednesday’s Signing Day. Mateo, an Associated…
· Andre D. Williams
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DeSandes-Moyer, others got it right most times
Parkland senior field hockey player Kyle DeSandes-Moyer signed her National Letter of Intent inside the school’s auditorium on Wednesday. Kisses from her mother and father followed, in addition to extended pound-pounds of the hand with her father, which drew laughter.…
· Andre D. Williams
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A day of pride for coaches, players **Many area football standouts sign on with Division I programs.
Levi Brown, an all-state defensive lineman at Liberty, pointed jubilantly to the Temple Owls’ hat on his head, then smiled as he looked out into the standing room-only crowd inside the school’s Arts Gallery on Wednesday. Liberty football coach Tim Moncman then came up and rubbed…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh men must regroup after bad loss to Princeton
Lehigh’s 73-64 upset loss at Princeton on Wednesday night must be forgotten quickly as well as tough non-league defeats to Rider and Stony Brook, both teams the Mountain Hawks should have also beaten. But at 10-4, Lehigh is off to its best start since 1925 and the expectations…
· Andre D. Williams
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Emmaus grad happy to be in the hunt at DeSales
Brian Hunter is back to running the break, slashing down the lane and playing the type of quality minutes he never got the opportunity to play at Lehigh last season. But Hunter transferred to DeSales, a Division III program that appears to be a much better fit for the 6-foot-3…
· Andre D. Williams
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DeSales realistic after first loss **Cold spell: Shoots 23 percent to end run at unbeaten season.
Defensive stops started to become tough, offensive makes even tougher in the final 12 minutes for the DeSales men Sunday. As a result, a school-record nine consecutive wins to open the season ended. But junior guard Darnell Braswell, an Allen graduate, refused to be disheartened…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hurricanes create a storm **Liberty’s diverse football team bands together to capture a state title — and the hearts of their community.
Liberty football coach Tim Moncman called his team the “Land of the Misfit Toys” because of the diverse lifestyles his players have. Here’s another name: state champions . It wasn’t easy to accomplish. After all, Liberty lost in the PIAA Class 4A final in 2005 and 2006. But the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hurricanes blew away the competition **State champion Liberty went 15-1 and is the team of the year.
The road to Hershey was still the same — long and winding. But the road back was different than the one in 2005 and 2006. That’s because Liberty, fueled by big plays from two-way star Anthony Gonzalez, relentless blocking from Levi Brown and other linemen, and punishing tackles…
· Andre D. Williams
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Gonzalez, Moncman best in Pa. **Sweet ‘Canes: Liberty duo named 4A player and coach of the year. Brown, Mateo and Clark also named first-team.
A week after Liberty High coach Tim Moncman and his star player Anthony Gonzalez shared tears, hugs and the glory of winning the school’s first state football title, the dynamic duo made a sweep of the Associated Press’ All-State Class 4A top honors. Moncman, who has managed the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Worthy of praise **Liberty’s Anthony Gonzalez is a winner whether on the field or watching over his two younger siblings.
For Liberty High fans, it was Anthony Gonzalez, the Hurricanes’ two-way star, who took over the PIAA Class 4A championship game against Bethel Park in overtime last Saturday in Hershey. For his mother, Nancy Mojica, it was just her baby boy finding a way to lead his team to a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Champ in waiting **CCHS grad Horton tries for his first title tonight.
Former Central Catholic High standout football player David Horton has one goal for tonight’s Football Championship Subdivision title game. Horton, a 2005 Central graduate, is a redshirt junior who starts at defensive back for Richmond. The Spiders meet Montana (14-1) in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty expects to reload for 2009 **X-factor: Gonzalez should lead another district playoff team.
Hours after Liberty’s dramatic 28-21 overtime win over Bethel Park in the PIAA Class 4A title game in Hershey on Saturday night, Hurricanes coach Tim Moncman had a gift from his neighbor waiting for him when he came home. “I got home at 2:30 and the next-door neighbor had taped…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Canes finally reign in Hershey **Gonzalez runs, throws, defends as Liberty makes up for previous losses with win in overtime thriller.
Overtime belonged to Liberty. Junior two-way star Anthony Gonzalez made sure of it against Bethel Park in the PIAA Class 4A championship game Saturday night at Hersheypark Stadium. “Everybody wanted to win the first state title in school history,” Gonzalez said. “We were not…
· Andre D. Williams
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Opportunistic and lucky ** According to its coach, Bethel Park has been fortunate to get to 15-0. ** PIAA CLASS 4A CHAMPIONSHIP HERSHEYPARK STADIUM 7 TONIGHT
Bethel Park High has advanced to its first PIAA Class 4A football final, helped by fundamentally sound play and luck, according to its coach, Jeff Metheny. The Black Hawks, after all, are 15-0 and have won each of their last three playoff games by four points or less. “There are…
· Andre D. Williams
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Remembering ’34 and ’40 ** Bethlehem High’s 1934 squad used a stifling defense to capture part of a state championship and the team in 1940 didn’t lose a game ** LIBERTY HIGH SCHOOL HISTORY LESSON
Daniel Curatola suffered a broken collarbone while playing pick-up football during his sophomore year at Bethlehem High and his parents refused to let him play on the school’s varsity team — in 1935. He had hoped to play because he wanted to be part of a program that he said…
· Andre D. Williams
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They’re glad for dad **Liberty’s Devin Street and Nick Pastor happy their fathers are also their coaches
The hug that warms Liberty senior Devin Street’s heart and motivates him to play his best comes before each kickoff and often throughout games. His father, Ted, an assistant coach at Liberty, has been one of his coaches since he was 5 years old. And Ted Street figures he’ll shed…
· Andre D. Williams
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Melosky pulling for Moncman, Hurricanes to bring home a title
Nazareth coach Rob Melosky hopes that he’ll be joined by Liberty coach Tim Moncman in a glorious company of coaches who have led a Lehigh Valley team to the PIAA Class 4A football title. Since 2002 when Melosky coached Parkland — powered by the record-breaking feats of running…
· Andre D. Williams
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Klotz pays the price with rest and ice **Liberty’s workhorse: ‘Canes FB/LB tired and achy, but looking foward to PIAA title game.
Sunday was the day after Liberty senior Daryl Klotz carried the ball a season-high 19 times, absorbing one hard hit after another by North Penn defenders in the PIAA Class 4A Eastern final on in Coatesville. Sunday is considered a day of rest, and Klotz took advantage of it.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Moncman has Liberty program on a roll **State title: All that’s keeping 2008 team from being the best.
Freedom fans may find it interesting that an alumnus of the school is leading rival Liberty in its greatest football era. Tim Moncman, a 1987 Freedom graduate, is 80-29 in nine seasons as Liberty’s coach and led the Hurricanes to PIAA Class 4A runner-up finishes in 2005 and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kicking it into gear ** North Penn can run all over teams or depend on its kicking game to win the close ones. ** PIAA EASTERN FINALS
Brandon McManus is the only four-year starting kicker in North Penn history, and he’s been one of the most effective Knights under pressure. “I’m a big fan of pressure,” McManus said. “I’ve liked it my whole life.” North Penn (14-0) averages 36.7 points per game mostly because…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty passes test in Philly **Plan B: Forced to pass, Gonzalez does so with flying colors.
Having to pick a poison is never a good thing. It’s usually devastating either way you look at it. George Washington High, the Philadelphia city champion, swarmed to the line of scrimmage and contained the rushing attack that has made Liberty so potent all season. No problem for…
· Andre D. Williams
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GW has history on its mind ** PIAA mark: Trying to beat Liberty today to become first Philly Public League team to win a state playoff game.
Liberty today tries to extend its winning streak to 13 games and prevent a Philadelphia Public League team from achieving history. Liberty (12-1), coming off a 28-14 win over Freedom for the District 11 title last Saturday, plays District 12 champion George Washington (10-1) in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hurricanes ready for more trench warfare **Liberty’s offensive linemen to face formidable task vs. George Washington’s defensive counterparts.
Liberty has dominated 50 out of 52 quarters it has played this season. The only two quarters it has not owned was in the first half against North Penn. Blocking assignments were missed and it caused the high-powered Hurricanes to stay out of sync and trail 20-0 at halftime. Levi…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
BOSTON COLLEGE 8-3, 4-3 (Atlantic Coast Conference) Beat Wake Forest 24-21 Steve Aponavicius (Easton) Sr. PK, 5-10, 198. Game: 1-for-1 on PATs; 3-for-3 on FGs. Season: 34-for-34 on PATs; 13-for-20 on FGs. BROWN 7-3 6-1 (Ivy League) Beat Columbia 41-10 Brendan Gallagher…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kendra would love a chance at Becahi **School announces Haddad won’t return as football coach.
A Bethlehem Catholic football program that went from a consistent district championship contender to rock bottom over the last two seasons is now without a head coach. And Dan Kendra Sr., a longtime Bethlehem Catholic coach, teacher, and admitted die-hard lover of the program,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Gonzalez, Liberty glide by Freedom
Liberty’s offensive linemen pounded and pounded away, plowing Freedom linemen out of the way to open wide holes for junior quarterback Anthony Gonzalez to run through Saturday afternoon. And, boy, did Gonzalez run. Left, right and up the middle with dazzling speed. An elusive…
· Andre D. Williams
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Running for a title **Liberty and Freedom, with standout rushing attacks, are playing for highest stakes in series history.
Senior running backs Brandon Brader of Liberty and Eddie Mateo of Freedom have been rivals since middle school. They’ve also been good friends and admired each other’s feats. But it wasn’t until last week when one of them decided to nickname the other. “He’s Superman,” Mateo…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kutztown women need offense to reverse fortunes **Bears must get help from those other than McQuade.
The Kutztown women’s basketball team may have discovered in the Golden Bear Classic last weekend what veteran coach Janet Malouf has missed the last two seasons: offense. Led by 5-foot-10 sophomore swing player Melissa McQuade, Kutztown totaled 66 points Saturday, then tallied…
· Andre D. Williams
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Brown paces Leopards **Senior nets 25, Lafayette men beat Stony Brook 80-71.
Lafayette coach Fran O’Hanlon usually likes to wait until January — when Patriot League games begin — to express what he likes and dislikes about his team and players. The Leopards improved to 2-0 with an 80-71 non-league win over Stony Brook in their home opener at Kirby Sports…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
ALBANY 8-3, 7-0 (Northeast Conference) Beat Wagner 30-11 Justin Peterson (Palmerton) Fr. RB 6-0, 225. Game: 1 carry, 0 yards. Season: 8 catches, 58 yards, 1 TD; 1 carry, 0 yards; 1 solo tackle, 3 assisted tackles, 1 forced fumble. BOSTON COLLEGE 7-3, 3-3 (Atlantic Coast…
· Andre D. Williams
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DeSales rallies to get past Scranton **Bulldog women take tourney title with 65-57 victory.
The DeSales women missed a barrage of shots — many from close range — as they fell into a nine-point second-half deficit Sunday afternoon. For most teams that might have been the time to push the panic button, but not for d3hoops.com All-American LeighAnn Burke and her…
· Andre D. Williams
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Experience puts ‘Hound women atop Landmark **But coach Mary Beth Spirk isn’t claiming the title just yet.
It’s hard to down lay a team that returns four starters, each a double-figure scorer, but Moravian women’s basketball coach Mary Beth Spirk is still attempting it. Good try coach, but it won’t work. Moravian, coming off a 16-11 season, was picked to finish first in the Landmark…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty boots Emmaus **Double stinger: Brader, Gonzalez lead way in 26-20 win.
Liberty senior tailback Brandon Brader might have been perceived as selfish if he asked his teammates to carry him off the field Friday night at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. After all, Hurricanes junior quarterback Anthony Gonzalez outrushed him by 61 yards in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lafayette women have higher expectations, tougher sked
Tammy Smith had been waiting for last season to come. She waited seven years for it. The Lafayette women’s basketball team was 14-16 in 2007-08, its best record in her tenure. It was a R-E-L-I-E-F. The Leopards were just 27-143 in Smith’s first six seasons, finishing in last…
· Andre D. Williams
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Bulldogs women’s team aiming for return trip to NCAAs
The DeSales women do not slack off during practice. Senior guards LeighAnn Burke and Kim Rarick, and junior forward Caitlyn Miller won’t allow it. “They only know how to work hard,” DeSales coach Fred Richter said. “We give a practice player of the week [award] out. You might…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hawks are well-guarded **Backcourt a strength for highly touted Lehigh.
Lehigh returns with what no other Patriot League team has. Junior guard Marquis Hall and sophomore guard Rob Keefer have won the league’s last two Rookie of the Year awards. This season, the guard duo will be depended on to help the Mountain Hawks contend for the league title in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland’s plan didn’t include Clark
Parkland senior Jaleel Clark made one Liberty coverage player miss, then he eluded another and continued to race up field en route to a 38-yard punt return Friday night. It was his only memorable play in the Trojans’ 19-0 loss in the District 11-2 Class 4A subregional…
· Andre D. Williams
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Leopards facing tough openers **Coming soon: Men start against Temple; women face Middle Tennessee.
So much for playing easy non-league basketball games. The Lafayette College men’s and women’s basketball teams are not doing that. The men, despite losing three senior starters to graduation, will host defending Atlantic 10 tournament champion Temple on Nov. 21 at Kirby Sports…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
ALBANY 7-3, 6-0 (Northeast Conference) Beat Robert Morris 41-7 Justin Peterson (Palmerton) Fr. RB 2-0, 225. Game: 3 catches, 33 yards. Season: 8 catches, 58 yards, 1 TD; 1 solo tackle, 3 assisted tackles, 1 forced fumble. BOSTON COLLEGE 6-3 (Atlantic Coast Conference) Beat Notre…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty linebackers not fun for foes **Klotz, Latimer use instincts and passion to dominate this year.
Liberty enters its first-ever district playoff game against Parkland tonight with two senior linebackers who are determined to have fun. Never mind that fun for Daryl Klotz and Horvin Latimer is administering punishment. “We like to tackle and hit people,” Latimer said. “Yeah,…
· Andre D. Williams
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City Hawks coming to Lehigh **Benchmark game: Saint Joe’s coming to Bethlehem on Dec. 2. Great prep for league play.
Lehigh basketball fans, circle Dec. 2 on your calendar. Saint Joseph’s University and its colorful coach Phil Martelli will be visiting Stabler Arena in one of the Mountain Hawks’ biggest non-league home game in years. Fittingly, Saint Joe’s bus trip to Bethlehem comes during a…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
ALBANY 6-3, 5-0 (Northeast Conference) Beat Monmouth 35-17 Justin Peterson (Palmerton) Fr. RB 6-0, 225. Game: 1 solo tackle, 1 assisted, 1 forced fumble. Season: 5 catches, 25 yards, 1 TD; 1 solo tackle, 3 assisted tackles, 1 forced fumble. BOSTON COLLEGE 5-3, 2-3 (Atlantic…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty, Freedom set to slug it out ** Lots of things — for both teams — ride on the outcome.
The Lehigh Valley Conference’s version of boxing’s “Main Event” takes place Saturday afternoon at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. That’s when Liberty (8-1, 8-0) and Freedom (8-1, 7-1) clash on the Frank Banko Field turf. “As everybody knows, there’s a lot at stake,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty, Freedom set to slug it out ** Lots of things — for both teams — ride on the outcome.
The Lehigh Valley Conference’s version of boxing’s “Main Event” takes place Saturday afternoon at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. That’s when Liberty (8-1, 8-0) and Freedom (8-1, 7-1) clash on the Frank Banko Field turf. “As everybody knows, there’s a lot at stake,…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
ALBANY 5-3, 4-0 (Northeast Conference) Beat St. Francis (N.Y.) 27-3 Justin Peterson (Palmerton) Fr. RB 2-0, 225. Game: One catch, 5 yards. Season: Five catches, 25 yards, one TD; two assisted tackles. BOSTON COLLEGE 5-2, 2-2 (Atlantic Coast Conference) Lost to North Carolina…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
ALBANY 4-3, 3-0 (Northeast) Beat Sacred Heart 26-21 Justin Peterson (Palmerton) Fr. RB 2-0, 225. Game: One catch, 2 yards. Season: Four catches, 20 yards, one TD; two assisted tackles. BOSTON COLLEGE 5-1, 2-1 (ACC) Beat Virginia Tech 28-23 Steve Aponavicius (Easton) Sr. PK,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Mateo: 2nd big decision is looming
Some high-profile athletes have transferred from one Lehigh Valley Conference school to another in recent years for athletic reasons. A fuss was made about most, and rightfully so since they were blatant, which has put District 11 officials under the gun more to try to stop…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
ALBANY 3-3, 2-0 (Northeast Conference) Beat Central Conn. St. 24-22 Justin Peterson (Palmerton) Fr. RB 2-0, 225. Game: Two catches, 16 yards; one assisted tackle. Season: Three catches, 18 yards, one TD; two assisted tackles. BROWN 2-2 (Ivy League) Lost to Holy Cross 41-34…
· Andre D. Williams
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Struggle is part of path to success
Dieruff coach Keith Brader has a question for all other Lehigh Valley Conference coaches, excluding Chris Kinane at Allen, who is 0-6 in his first season and facing a tough battle trying to make the Canaries competitive. Do you want to trade places? “We probably would not have…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
BOSTON COLLEGE 4-1, 1-1 (Atlantic Coast Conference) Beat N.C. State 38-31 Steve Aponavicius (Easton) Sr. PK, 5-10, 198. Game: 5-for-5 on PATs; 1-for-1 on FGs, 17-yarder. Season: 18-for-18 on PATs; 6-for-8 on FGs. BROWN 2-1 (Ivy League) Lost to Rhode Island 37-13 Brendan…
· Andre D. Williams
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Patriots, Kids on collision course **Big test: Freedom’s offense squares off with Northampton’s defense.
Freedom snapped a 12-game losing streak against Parkland last week, which raised the Patriots’ confidence level entering tonight’s Lehigh Valley Conference showdown against Northampton at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. Both teams are 4-1, 3-1 in conference play, but…
· Andre D. Williams
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RISING STAR **Liberty’s Anthony Gonzalez has picked up right where Dan Persa left off two years ago – quarterbacking the Hurricanes to victories.
There are two sides to Liberty junior quarterback Anthony Gonzalez, and both have made him popular with teammates and coaches. “He is low key,” Liberty senior Devin Street said about Gonzalez off the field. But on the field, it’s his aggressiveness and intensity that sets him…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
BOSTON COLLEGE 3-1 (Atlantic Coast Conference) Beat Rhode Island 42-0 Steve Aponavicius (Easton) Sr. PK, 5-10,. 198. Game: 5-for-5 on PATs. Season: 13-for-13 on PATs; 5-for-7 on FGs. BROWN 2-0, 1-0 (Ivy League) Beat Harvard 24-22 Brendan Gallagher (Parkland) Jr. LB, 6-1, 225.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Bottigkieri, Hornets look to stinf another ‘student’ this week
The mark of a good coach is not only winning and making the playoffs on a consistent basis, but how well he teaches and develops other men to become just as successful as he is when they’re in charge of their own programs. Emmaus coach Joe Bottiglieri is a frontrunner in that…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kids, Hornets ready to play for 1st place
No longer overlooked, Northampton is excited to welcome Emmaus to Al Erdosy Field tonight for a showdown between undefeated teams battling for first place in the Lehigh Valley Conference. Both teams are 4-0 overall, 3-0 in league play. “This is certainly a big game for us,”…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kids, Hornets ready to play for 1st place ** LVC’s two unbeatens not surprised to be where they are 1 month into the season.
No longer overlooked, Northampton is excited to welcome Emmaus to Al Erdosy Field tonight for a showdown between undefeated teams battling for first place in the Lehigh Valley Conference. Both teams are 4-0 overall, 3-0 in league play. “This is certainly a big game for us,”…
· Andre D. Williams
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Freedom needs a signature win
In terms of taking steps forward, Freedom football coach Jason Roeder has no complaints. His teams did just that in each of his first three years, going from 2-8 to 5-5 to 9-3 and winning the Eastern Conference Class 4A title last season. Last season marked a school record for…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
BOSTON COLLEGE 2-1 (Atlantic Coast Conference) Beat Central Florida 34-7 Steve Aponavicius (Easton) Sr. PK, 5-10, 198. Game: 4-for-4 on PATs; 2-for-3 on FGs of 22 and 25 yards. Season: 8-for-8 on PATs; 5-for-7 on FGs. BROWN 1-0 (Ivy League) Beat Stony Brook 17-7 Brendan…
· Andre D. Williams
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Emmaus ends the drought ** Eureka! Hornets beat Easton for the first time since 1981.
One streak was extended and another one ended for Emmaus Friday night. Both were huge. Both streaks further validated Emmaus as a Lehigh Valley Conference and District 11 title contender. That’s because Emmaus blew Easton off the line of scrimmage and bent little on defense —…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
CONNECTICUT 3-0 (Big East) Beat Virginia 45-10 Robbie Frey (Lehighton) R-Fr. RB, 6-0, 191. Game: Eight carries, 31 yards. Season: 18 carries, 66 yards, one TD; one kickoff return, 10 yards; one solo tackle, two assisted, one fumble recovery. Mike Ryan (Marian) R-Fr. OT, 6-5,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Battle of contenders in Emmaus **Freedom faces Green Hornets in early showdown.
Something new in Week 3 of the Lehigh Valley Conference: Neither Liberty, Parkland nor Easton is involved in the top game. Easton (2-0, 1-0) opens its home schedule against Parkland (0-2, 0-1) at 7 tonight at Cottingham Stadium, and it promises to be a festive atmosphere as the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Sizable stakes again in matchup of rivals Easton, Parkland
Easton has played two teams it was supposed to crush. The Red Rovers did just that, beating Stroudsburg by 27 points and Dieruff by 35. Now Easton (2-0, 1-0) hosts two-time defending Lehigh Valley Conference champion Parkland on Friday night at Cottingham Stadium. It’s Easton’s…
· Andre D. Williams
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HOT ON THE GRIDIRON
BOSTON COLLEGE 1-1, 0-1 (ACC) Lost to Georgia Tech 19-16 Steve Aponavicius (Easton) Sr. PK, 5-10,. 198. Game: 1-for-1 on PATs; 3-for-3 on FGs of 36, 34 and 26 yards. Season: 4-for-4 on PATs; 3-for-3 on FGs. CONNECTICUT 2-0, 0-0 (Big East) Beat Temple 12-9 Robbie Frey (Lehighton)…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty’s Brown mows ’em down
On every snap of the ball Friday night against Parkland, Liberty offensive lineman Levi Brown looked like a raging boxer leaving his corner at the sound of the bell. Instead of throwing a punch, Brown’s mission was to blow Trojans off the ball and clear the way for Liberty…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland and Liberty renew rivalry **Trojans, Hurricanes meet for first time since 2005.
It’s a Week 2 matchup that would have even more hype had it been scheduled for later in the season with the Lehigh Valley Conference title and possibly the No. 1 seed in the district playoffs on the line. But after not playing the last two seasons, Liberty and Parkland are…
· Andre D. Williams
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Freedom opens with big game vs. C.B. West
The wait is over for Freedom. Tonight, the defending Eastern Conference Class 4A champion will try to extend its winning streak in season openers under coach Jason Roeder to four games. “There is not a whole lot of room for error,” said Roeder, whose Patriots open at Central…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh Valley Conference Team Capsules
ALLEN Coach: Chris Kinane (first year) Last year: 0-10 (0-9, LVC) Impact players: QB Justin Quaye, sr.; QB Nick Rhodes, jr.; WR Matt Wingler, sr.; WR Nik Davis, sr.; WR/RB David Gibbs, sr.; WR Siddiq Shabazz, sr.; OL Lance Troxell, sr.; OL Eddy Torres, sr.; RB/LB Luciano…
· Andre D. Williams
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EASTERN DOMOINATION **With 10 recent trips to Hershey, District 11 is the new beast of the east in Pennsylvania football
It’s been a decade of memorable games and streaks, of championship glory and the agony of defeat in state title games for District 11 football teams. History was made in 2002 when Parkland, behind Austin Scott’s state-record 53 touchdowns and 3,846 yards rushing, became the…
· Andre D. Williams
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TEAM-BY-TEAM CAPSULES
ALLEN Coach: Chris Kinane (first year) Last year: 0-10 (0-9, LVC) Impact players: QB Justin Quaye, sr.; QB Nick Rhodes, jr.; WR Matt Wingler, sr.; WR Nik Davis, sr.; WR/RB David Gibbs, sr.; WR Siddiq Shabazz, sr.; OL Lance Troxell, sr.; OL Eddy Torres, sr.; RB/LB Luciano…
· Andre D. Williams
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Force hopes high as playoffs begin **Title dreams: They open against Washington tonight.
Philadelphia Force assistant general manager Erin Statmore is looking for a big sparkle in her life. She’ll have it if the Force win the National Pro Fastpitch league championship tournament in Kimberly, Wisc. this weekend. “I’m looking to fly back with a diamond ring on the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Swim golds are nice, but hoops success more important to U.S.
Spain, Argentina, Greece and China could combine to form an all-world team and the scoreboard at the Beijing Games wouldn’t read any differently than it has after any other game the United States has played at the Wukesong Basketball Arena. Redeem Team would crush any collection…
· Andre D. Williams
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Tucker taking Northampton CC to next level **Sports programs transitioning from EPCC to NJCAA
The Northampton Community College athletic program is making the transition from small-time to a bigger and more competitive level of play. That was Troy Tucker’s No. 1 goal after he was hired as the Spartans’ athletic director on June 2. Coming from the University of Maryland…
· Andre D. Williams
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Players, coaches, media kick off the season **Sports commission holds annual football luncheon.
Parkland senior Jaleel Clark stood at the podium, his two diamond-stud earrings sparkling, and spoke enthusiastically about the upcoming football season and the Trojans’ attempt to go undefeated a third straight season in the Lehigh Valley Conference. Clark, the 2007 Morning…
· Andre D. Williams
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Chasing a dream
Fantasy baseball and football camps are cool, but nobody is supposed to get hurt. In fantasy boxing, well, that may not be the case, if NBC 10 (WCAU) sports anchor and ex-Philadelphia Eagles return man Vai Sikahema is able to sneak inside on the much larger Jose Canseco and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Orlando relishing last chance ** Eastern promises: Liberty graduate hoping to finally beat a team from western half of state.
Joey Orlando always just found a way. He was a two-way starter on a Liberty football team last season that had an All-American linebacker in Brendan Beal, who’s now at the University of Florida on a scholarship. There also was Ahkeem Smith, now at Temple on a scholarship. But…
· Andre D. Williams
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Davidson’s dazzle delivers dashes ** Wilson’s 400-meter gold medalist starred at districts and states.
He has long legs, long strides and speed. They all became winning ingredients for Wilson’s Anthony Davidson, who won the Class 2A 400-meter dash title at the PIAA Track and Field Championships Memorial Day weekend. Davidson, a rising senior, was the only District 11 athlete to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Holley goes out with a bang ** Ex-Rovers star picks off two passes, makes TD-saving tackle to help beat Ohio.
Jarred Holley could have been mistaken for Krazy Glue on a hot Saturday night at HersheyPark Stadium. The Easton High defensive back started at left cornerback for Pennsylvania against Ohio in the Big 33 Football Classic and made two sensational plays in the end zone — one an…
· Andre D. Williams
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Sticking it to Buckeye State ** Ex-Rovers star Holley picks off 2 passes, makes TD-saving stop to lead Pa. to third straight win.
Jarred Holley could have been mistaken for Krazy Glue on a hot Saturday night at Hersheypark Stadium. The Easton High defensive back started at left cornerback for Pennsylvania against Ohio in the Big 33 Football Classic and made two sensational plays in the end zone — one an…
· Andre D. Williams
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Doing what he does best ** Get defensive: Jarred Holley to play DB only in tonight’s game.
Jarred Holley will not be a utilityman in tonight’s Big 33 Football Classic. Which means he will not play quarterback, running back, wide receiver, kick returner or punt returner when Pennsylvania meets Ohio at Hersheypark Stadium. He played all those positions in four stellar…
· Andre D. Williams
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Laub ready to prove he belongs ** Late addition: Former Parkland QB to play in Big 33 game.
He’s a Big 33 replacement player, but Parkland quarterback John Laub is also a proven winner. Last season, he led Parkland to a 15-1 record and PIAA Class 4A runner-up finish. It was his first season as a starter, and Laub ran coach Jim Morgans’ Wing-T offense to near perfection…
· Andre D. Williams
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Larry Holmes finally gets his due ** Standing ovation Ex-heavyweight champ joins greats in Hall of Fame.
Speaking with passion and nearly breaking down throughout his marathon speech, former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes thrilled the crowd on the museum grounds of the International Boxing Hall of Fame on Sunday. He was frank and funny as he talked about life, family, career and…
· Andre D. Williams
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A nice ring to it ** Holmes ready to take his place among boxing’s immortals.
Larry Holmes returned to the spotlight Saturday, signing autographs, pictures, posters and other boxing memorabilia. This afternoon, the former heavyweight champion will brave the heat to be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. The buildup to the moment has been…
· Andre D. Williams
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“Assassin’ laments that one target eluded him ** Lone regret Soon-to-be HOF Holmes wishes he’d fought Foreman.
Larry Holmes fought 581 rounds during his legendary boxing career. Along the way, he persevered in a classic 15-round bout against Ken Norton on June 9, 1978, to win the heavyweight title. He also beat Muhammad Ali, Earnie Shavers and Gerry Cooney. But there is one heavyweight…
· Andre D. Williams
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“Easton Assassin’ replays greatest hits ** He ‘got into boxing to make some money.’ Hard work, dedication made him a legend.
Larry Holmes fought until age 52, beating Muhammad Ali once and Earnie Shavers twice along the way before retiring for good with a 10-round unanimous decision over Eric “Butterbean” Esch on July 27, 2002. Now, six years after whipping the fat off Butterbean in Norfolk, Va.,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Davidson edges Cseh in another classic duel ** Wilson, Palmerton 400-meter runners take first, second.
Anthony Davidson appeared to be facing a daunting challenge when he showed up later than expected for the finals of the Class 2A 400-meter dash. Lucky for the Wilson junior, he had rival sprinter Austin Cseh of Palmerton to help settle his mind and help him prepare for a…
· Andre D. Williams
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PIAAs hold historic promise for D-11 boys ** Wilson team could help this meet rank among best ever.
The two-day PIAA Track and Field Championships begins at Shippensburg University this morning with one major question for District 11. Can it get any better for the district than in 2003, when Bethlehem Catholic won the Class 2A team title, becoming the first school in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Wilson trio hoping to jump for joy ** Trying to lead club to first state team title this weekend.
Adam Eckhart has a crazy passion for jumping over things, which is why it’s best for him to always wear sneakers. “I jump everywhere I go,” he said. “It’s like everyone knows me for that. I just jump and jump and jump.” This weekend, the Wilson senior will be jumping in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Sell, Price prove that hard work does pay off ** Duo among Lehigh Valley Conference’s best student-athletes.
Jesse Sell would prefer to smash a volleyball over crashing the books any day of the week. But the Emmaus senior never lost sight of the fact that he needed to be successful in both. On Wednesday, Sell was rewarded for his hard work in both at the Lehigh Valley Conference…
· Andre D. Williams
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Outlawz lose game a day after coaches walk out on team
It was an arena football game that ended like a wild, wild west brawl. There were still 3 minutes, 22 seconds left on the clock in the fourth quarter when the officials called the CIFL game between the Lehigh Valley Outlawz and Rochester Raiders Saturday night at Stabler Arena.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Outlawz lose game a day after coaches walk out on team
It was an arena football game that ended like a wild, wild west brawl. There were still 3 minutes, 22 seconds left on the clock in the fourth quarter when the officials called the CIFL game between the Lehigh Valley Outlawz and Rochester Raiders Saturday night at Stabler arena.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Cseh wins 400 dash in record time ** Nudges Wilson’s Davidson at Colonial League meet.
He’s not all hulked up, but Palmerton sprinter Austin Cseh had all the speed and endurance necessary to prevail over Wilson’s Anthony Davidson in a thrilling race to the finish line in the finals of the 400-meter dash at the Colonial League Track and Field Championships on…
· Andre D. Williams
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Becahi’s Brandon now a champion ** He sheds underdog label by winning 100 dash. VanAckeren is back.
Bethlehem Catholic junior sprinter Tevrin Brandon is an underdog no more. Fast and confident since his freshman year, Brandon still entered this spring unfulfilled because he had yet to win the 100-meter dash at the Lehigh Valley Conference Track and Field Championships. But…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kroboth, Street success stories to keep playing out
It’s finally time to get down to serious business in track and field. Next week’s Lehigh Valley Conference, Colonial League and Mountain Valley Conference championship meets will weed out the pretenders and establish the boys’ athletes who are most likely to contend for district…
· Andre D. Williams
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Solehi alum Hixson helps Kutztown take third in 1,600 relay ** PENN RELAYS
Steve Hixson had another memorable run at the Penn Relays. Never mind that he was not able to rally Kutztown University to a victory in the college men’s Wetzler/Pennsylvania 1,600-meter relay Friday at Franklin Field. Hixson was still overjoyed that he ran one of his fastest…
· Andre D. Williams
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Speed to Burn ** Nazareth senior sprinter Kevin Kroboth, a football player in his first year of track competition, has put up the area’s fastes sprint times.
Nazareth High senior Kevin Kroboth has had an easier time sprinting to 100- and 200-meter dash victories than he did breaking away for touchdowns during the football season. A first-year track and field athlete, Kroboth has used the dual-meet season to prove himself as a league,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kutztown rugby makes sweet trip to Albuquerque ** Golden Bears, in the Sweet 16, hope to get to their first Elite Eight.
A Sweet 16 that will take more of a rugged toll on the body will be contested this weekend in Albuquerque, N.M. The sport is rugby, and Kutztown University coach Gregg “Doc” Jones believes he has a team capable of advancing out of its four-team bracket in the National Division I…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kroboth blazes to a 10.47
In track and field there’s fast and there’s really blazing, which Nazareth senior Kevin Kroboth was in the 100-meter dash Thursday afternoon at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. A first-year participant in the sport, Kroboth has been under 11.0 seconds in most of his races…
· Andre D. Williams
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Palmerton fighter finds the answer to final 16 on “Ultimate Fighter 7′
The house belonged to Matthew Riddle on Wednesday night at the Palmerton Hotel. It’s like that when you are a star in the making, which the bold and brass Riddle appeared to be in his debut fight in “The Ultimate Fighter 7” series on Spike TV. A packed house cheered, hugged and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty’s VanAckeren will be a force in yet another sport
Distance runner Trevor VanAckeren of Liberty and sprinter Aneurys Santos of Salisbury figure to dominate the headlines in boys track and field this spring. Never mind that both began the season injured — the long-legged Princeton-bound VanAckeren with a tweaked left knee and the…
· Andre D. Williams
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For Barbosa, a tough way to bow out ** Allen grad struggled in his final game, but ex-coach says body of work is no less impressive.
Ray Barbosa’s mother, sister and stepfather each sat near-motionless in the RBC Center as the minutes in his college basketball career counted down Friday. Unable to shake free from a suffocating Georgetown defense, Barbosa missed shot after shot, and his University of…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hoyas too much for UMBC ** Jay Greene and Ray Barbosa both struggle in first tourney game.
Jay Greene had two memorable back-to-back trips down the court Friday. They were in the second half, and the University of Maryland-Baltimore County guard rose up against tenacious Georgetown defenders to bury consecutive 3-pointers. It prevented Greene, a junior and former…
· Andre D. Williams
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UMBC not looking ahead, but … ** LV natives Ray Barbosa, Jay Greene do want to play past Georgetown today.
Ray Barbosa did not pack light. The University of Maryland Baltimore County guard has enjoyed the aura that surrounds the NCAA Tournament ever since arriving here Wednesday night and plans on soaking up as much of it as possible. UMBC, seeded 15th in the Midwest Region, plays…
· Andre D. Williams
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Moms dancing with stars ** Denise Greene and Pam Tillett share in the experience of their sons’ dreams of reaching the Big Dance.
Concerned and nervous, Pam Tillett sat still in the stands amongst raucous University of Maryland-Baltimore County fans Saturday afternoon at RAC Arena. Her son, UMBC senior guard Ray Barbosa from Allen High, was focused on the court, trying to help his teammates stave off a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Greene, Barbosa will face Hoyas ** Maryland-Baltimore County draws Georgetown as its NCAA first-round opponent.
Ray Barbosa and Jay Greene jumped from their seats, overwhelmed with jubilation Sunday night. They had a lot of happy company. A day after the University of Maryland-Baltimore County won the America East Conference championship, Barbosa, from Allen High, and Greene, from…
· Andre D. Williams
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Valley pair get to dance ** Jay Greene, Ray Barbosa lead UMBC to NCAA Tournament.
Jay Greene scored his team’s first points on a 3-pointer, he handed out the first assist, and throughout the biggest game of his life, the former Whitehall High star also crashed the boards hard and played lockdown defense. An automatic NCAA Tournament bid was on the line, and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Greene, Barbosa shooting for history ** With win today, UMBC secures first-ever berth in NCAA Tournament.
Ray Barbosa has allowed himself to dream about this day for a long time. But the former Allen High basketball star doubted it would ever arrive. Jay Greene, former Whitehall star, however, began believing this day would come as soon as the 2006-07 season ended. Today, the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Barbosa, Greene spark UMBC ** They lead the way past Vermont and into the American East final.
A warning light seemed to go off in Ray Barbosa’s head with nine minutes remaining in the America East Conference semifinals Sunday afternoon. The University of Maryland Baltimore County trailed Vermont by six points, and Barbosa feared that his dream of playing for a conference…
· Andre D. Williams
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Decade after being shot, boxer re-enters the ring ** Julio Caesar Mathews is on heavyweight card Saturday in Allentown.
An Allentown boxer, who nearly died after being shot 10 years ago, makes his return to the ring on Saturday night at the Days Inn & Conference Center in South Whitehall Township. Julio Caesar Mathews, 37, was 2-0 as a light heavyweight and was ambitious about trying to climb up…
· Andre D. Williams
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Tenacious D, friendly rim sweet music for DeSales ** Bulldogs end NCAA skid, holding off Muhlenberg on Rarick’s huge 3-pointer.
A game of one tenacious defensive stop after another got final separation on a 3-point from the corner by DeSales junior Kim Rarick that bounced once, twice and then hung on the rim before falling through the nets. You can call it a lucky bounce, but it was just a good player…
· Andre D. Williams
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D-III matchup at Muhlenberg should be a dandy ** The Mules host DeSales; Salem State meets Marymount.
Here’s another good news/bad news situation. The DeSales and Muhlenberg women won their conference tournaments to earn automatic NCAA Division III Tournament bids. That’s the good news. The bad news is that DeSales (24-3), champion of the Freedom Conference, has to play…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Hounds lose dogfight to John Jay ** Moravian matches Bloodhounds’ quickness in first half but can’t overcome 5-minute drought in 2nd.
It was a game of fun, run and gun offense that was filled with impressive highlights. But Moravian nearly ran itself ragged trying to keep pace with John Jay College, a quick and athletic team from New York City that brought many spirited fans to Johnston Hall for the school’s…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Hound men seek “A’ game on “D’
Revitalized after receiving a surprise NCAA Division III tournament bid, Moravian hopes to make amends for its play of late when it meets John Jay College tonight. The Greyhounds lost their final three games, including a conference semifinal playoff game, but the the NCAA…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kutztown bows out in first round again ** Host Golden Bears fall to Millersville, 99-88, in PSAC playoffs.
Kutztown University allowed too many open looks from beyond the arc and got burned for it, and allowed too many second-chance points and was punished even more by Millersville in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference men’s basketball quarterfinals Tuesday night at Keystone…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh’s Keefer named Patriot League’s top rookie ** The Mountain Hawks put one on PL second team; Lafayette places two.
Lehigh freshman guard Rob Keefer scored six points in his first game, eight in his second and 12 in his third. Get the picture? He continued to improve, and eventually became a starter, winning six Patriot League rookie of the week awards. A graduate of Abington Friends, Keefer…
· Andre D. Williams
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1-2 punch leads DeSales women to title ** Guards Kim Rarick, LeighAnn Burke combine for 45 points.
The rowdy DeSales students chanted “You can’t cover her” after point guard Kim Rarick pulled up and splashed a short jumper Saturday afternoon. Rarick had a good overall game, but her main job was to get the ball into shooting guard LeighAnn Burke’s hands as often as possible…
· Andre D. Williams
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Bulldog men bow to King’s ** Loss in conference final may cost DeSales NCAA tournament bid.
Scott Coval did not have a happy ending Saturday to his 400th career game as a coach at DeSales. That’s because the Bulldogs had a collapse on both ends of the court in the final 10 minutes and lost to King’s College, 71-62, in the Freedom Conference tournament final at Billera…
· Andre D. Williams
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Moravian men looking for redemption against Royals
Losing the final regular season game is not good for any team hoping to enter the playoffs with momentum. But the Moravian men, who were routed 82-60 by Landmark Conference foe Scranton on Saturday, will get a chance to bounce back on their home court. The second-seeded…
· Andre D. Williams
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Retrievers rely on “RayJay’ ** Lehigh Valley products Ray Barbosa and Jay Greene propel UMBC to conference title.
“RayJay” was speedy and dynamic, confident and fearless, the driving force behind the University of Maryland-Baltimore County clinching the America East regular season title Saturday night. “RayJay” is how UMBC coach Randy Monroe referred to Ray Barbosa and Jay Greene after the…
· Andre D. Williams
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NCC’s Wolfe on the hunt for players who rode the pine
Couldn’t make it off your high school team’s bench to get playing time but still want to play college basketball? Don’t worry, Northampton Community College women’s coach Art Wolfe may have a spot for you on his team. And it’s not riding the pine. Wolfe, who finished his 19th…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh hangs on for 58-53 win over Army ** Back from illness, Bryan White makes clutch shots to ice it.
Everybody who attempted free throws in the final 40 seconds of Saturday night’s Patriot League grind between Lehigh and Army missed. That is, except the one player who probably should have been at home in the bed. But Lehigh senior Bryan White, who missed the previous two days…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lafayette needs to regroup
Lafayette has to play five more Patriot League war games, which is the way conference games tend to be throughout the country this time of season. Once the surprise team in the league after starting 5-1 for the first time since 1998-99, Lafayette has now lost three straight…
· Andre D. Williams
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Signings show importance of academic success
Every high school athlete should have winning a championship — whether league, district or state — as one of their main goals because they cannot legitimately compete without drive. Making good grades should be an even higher goal. It would only be an excuse for an athlete to…
· Andre D. Williams
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A red-letter day ** Red Rovers’ stellar five; area football recruits highlight Signing Day.
Easton celebrated its biggest Signing Day since 1968 with football star Jarred Holley and U.S. Olympic track and field hopeful Chanelle Price heading the list of five Red Rover athletes who signed national letters of intent to Division I-A schools on Wednesday. Holley, a…
· Andre D. Williams
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More kudos for Liberty’s Beal ** School’s outstanding linebacker to be named Parade All-American.
Brendan Beal’s postseason parade of high school football honors has continued even though Beal has already begun taking classes and participating in strength and conditioning drills at the University of Florida. Beal, a standout linebacker at Liberty High School last season, has…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland’s Laub verbally commits to Richmond ** Spiders, who compete in Division I-AA, are coming off 12-3 season.
John Laub has parlayed one season as a record-breaking quarterback at Parkland into a college scholarship. Laub, a Morning Call All-Area first-team selection, made his official visit to Division I-AA Richmond last Friday and verbally committed to the Colonial Athletic…
· Andre D. Williams
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Morgans honored to lead Pa. team in Big 33 ** Parkland mentor will be Pennsylvania’s head coach for the annual all-star game.
The reward for Parkland football coach Jim Morgans leading his team to a 15-1 season and finishing as PIAA Class 4A runner-up is a fourth trip to Hersheypark Stadium to coach in a big game. Morgans, 60, has been named Pennsylvania’s head coach against Ohio all-stars in the Big…
· Andre D. Williams
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DeSales’ Rarick has rare accuracy
Perfection on the basketball court is hard to achieve, which is why DeSales junior Kim Rarick chose to give her team a “B” as a midseason grade. The Bulldogs, under veteran coach Fred Richter, are 11-3 and considered a contender for the Freedom Conference championship. “Nobody…
· Andre D. Williams
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DeSales’ Ohlson getting his fill feeding his teammates
There’s nothing better than a point guard who thrives on setting up his teammates for baskets instead of trying to fill up the scorebook with his own points. DeSales senior guard Eddie Ohlson is just 5-8 but he’s the Bulldogs’ most valuable player because of his passing skills…
· Andre D. Williams
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DeSales’ Ohlson dishes it out, Carroll can’t take it ** Ohlson hands out 13 assists, leading to a 97-80 win in tourney final.
DeSales guard Darnell Braswell and post players Phil Stricker and Ed Lapinski only had to worry about one thing when Eddie Ohlson had the ball in his hands Saturday night. And that was what type of dish Ohlson was going to deliver. Already the owner of every major assist record…
· Andre D. Williams
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Ex-Liberty star’s switch pays off with starting role at Rutgers ** Morales mans fullback for Knights, blocking for All-American Rice.
Rutgers redshirt freshman Andres Morales has entered 2008 doing what he most loves to do. “It’s kind of cool because all we do is play football now, like a pro team,” Morales said. “School is over. You just relax and play ball.” A punishing all-state linebacker at Liberty High…
· Andre D. Williams
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New Lehigh coach: Same philosophy burt with his imprint ** BRETT REED
Editor’s note: This is the first in an occasional series of in-depth interviews with Lehigh Valley sports figures. Thirteen games into his first college basketball head coaching job, Lehigh coach Brett Reed is trying to develop a Patriot League championship contender out of a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Figner makes best of dreary December ** West Virginia O-lineman, a Northwestern grad, sees his team miss chance at title game, lose coach.
West Virginia offensive lineman Jake Figner was credited with 20 knockdown blocks last season, which was impressive enough for the Northwestern High graduate to remain a starter. The number of pancake blocks Figner had this season has not been released, but he’s confident that…
· Andre D. Williams
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Surprising Parkland forged state title bid ** Local ** Top 5: Our countdown of the top local and regional sports stories of the year continues. Today: No. 3.
Back in August when shoulder pads and helmets were first strapped on, Parkland had a team that on paper looked like it would be good. Good enough to contend for a league and district title. But not good enough to end up in Hershey playing for the state title. After all, Liberty…
· Andre D. Williams
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Aponavicius and BC hope to end inconsistent season with win
Boston College kicker Steve Aponavicius has a simple game plan for tonight’s Champs Sports Bowl in Orlando, Fla. “Just to go out and put the ball through the uprights,” said Aponavicius, an Easton High graduate, who’ll be making his 22nd career start when the Eagles (10-3) meet…
· Andre D. Williams
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Pius’ Williams catches on as all-stater
Pius X wide receiver Wade Williams got open to catch passes and score touchdowns with ease. “He’s real smooth on the football field, that’s for sure,” said his coach, Bob Goffredo. Williams caught 45 passes for 958 yards and 11 touchdowns this season, breaking the Royals’ school…
· Andre D. Williams
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Palmerton’s Peterson first team all-state ** Palisades’ Jensen and Jim Thorpe’s Hontz named to second team.
Palmerton senior Justin Peterson bowled over opposing Colonial League players with his hard running style. He punished them even more as a standout linebacker, which is where he really changed the course of games in leading Palmerton to a 9-3 record and a District 11 Class 2A…
· Andre D. Williams
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Five from area named 4A all-state ** They are Parkland’s Jaleel Clark, Clint Miller, Easton’s Jarred Holley, Liberty’s Brendan Beal, and ESS’s Casey Smith.
Parkland junior wide receiver Jaleel Clark was unstoppable, gracefully and effortlessly racing downfield to make tough catches and score touchdowns. Easton senior Jarred Holley once again played the role of lockdown defensive back, Liberty senior Brendan Beal was a hard-hitting…
· Andre D. Williams
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Trojans look ahead, not back ** A loss in the state final hurt, but what senior John Laub regrets is leaving his teammates. Juniors look to next season.
Parkland did not return from Hershey with a state championship trophy Saturday night. Too much went wrong. But everything went right for 15 games. That’s why the Trojans went into the PIAA Class 4A title game undefeated. And, after the tears as a result of the Trojans’ 21-0 loss…
· Andre D. Williams
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Not this year ** Parkland’s undefeated season ends with loss in state final
Some Parkland players stood frozen in place, some cried and many embraced as the state championship they dreamed of winning ended on a bittersweet note Saturday night. Unable to manufacture the offensive plays or make the defensive stops that had been the cornerstones to its…
· Andre D. Williams
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Trojans can reflect on what was, not what wasn’t
The burning in the heart won’t last forever. However, positive memories of Parkland’s accomplishments this season will play over and over again in the minds of the Trojan players, coaches and fans. It was special. It just ended with pain, without the Trojans scoring a point for…
· Andre D. Williams
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Vikings have a history going ** PIttsburgh Central Catholic is getting compared to its 2004 PIAA 4A titlist. ** PIAA Class 4A Football Championship
Pro Bowl quarterbacks Dan Marino and Marc Bulger are part of the rich history of football at Pittsburgh Central Catholic, Parkland’s opponent today in the PIAA Class 4A title game. But so too is the 16-0 Viking team of 2004 that captured the school’s second state 4A title. Terry…
· Andre D. Williams
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Trojans’ Morgans is a mastermind ** The Morning Call coach of the year is enjoying another great season. ** Coach of the Year
Parkland coach Jim Morgans is a former offensive tackle and nose guard from Louisiana College who describes himself as having been just an average player. The same cannot be said of his coaching. He won two PIAA Class 3A titles in an eight-year span at his alma mater, Central…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland puts together season to remember ** The 15-0 Trojans prove themselves to be cream of area’s crop. ** Team of the Year
Parkland is one win away from a perfect 16-0 season and its first PIAA Class 4A championship since 2002. Win or lose against powerful Pittsburgh Central Catholic Saturday night at Hersheypark Stadium, Parkland has already surpassed the accomplishments of any other team in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lawler gives Trojans a leg up ** Parkland senior is an accurate placekicker — and a sure tackler on the kick-coverage team. ** PIAA Class 4A Championships – 7 p.m. – Saturday
He has two solo tackles and one forced fumble. Normally, those are defensive statistics that might be overlooked, except when it’s the kicker. It’s something that Parkland senior kicker Robert Lawler is proud of, especially the forced fumble, which he caused on a kickoff return…
· Andre D. Williams
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Larry Holmes’ big payday ** He started boxing for the money, and now he’s headed to Hall of Fame.
Larry Holmes celebrated being chosen for the 2008 class of the International Boxing Hall of Fame on Tuesday at his A Step Up Restaurant and Lounge in Easton, recounting the $63 he won in his first pro fight in 1973 in Scranton and the millions he’s earned since. “Every time I…
· Andre D. Williams
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Talent becomes Trojans ** Parkland’s back in title game because it’s gotten most out of its talent. ** PIAA Class 4A Championships – 7 p.m. Saturday – Hersheypark Stadium
It’s easy for Austin Scott and Nick Pinchek to be remembered because they scored the most touchdowns on Parkland’s 2002 PIAA Class 4A championship team. The Decker brothers, Cody and Travis, were defensive standouts, who posted 30 sacks between them for a defense that allowed…
· Andre D. Williams
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Late surge sends Parkland to finals ** Two late touchdowns propel Trojans to Hershey for second time in 5 years.
The final 10 minutes, 36 seconds of Saturday’s PIAA Class 4A semifinal game belonged to Parkland. The key series during that stretch of time was a 99-yard scoring drive that sealed the Trojans’ 35-21 victory over Ridley and sent thousands of Parkland fans into a frenzy at J.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Tomcho, Trojans try to keep alive legacies, streaks ** The offensive guard has a football-rich family history; the team is 14-0.
Parkland offensive lineman Ian Tomcho hopes to continue what his dad and his uncles did in the 1960s and 1970s and 1980s at J. Birney Crum Stadium. And that’s win big games. None, however, have been as big as the one that Tomcho will play at noon today when Parkland (14-0) and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hard to keep up with Trojans’ Clark ** The 6-4 receiver uses his size, speed, leaping ability to beat defenders to the ball.
Hike the football quickly, Parkland wideout Jaleel Clark is matched up one-on-one with a defensive back. Throw it deep, and Clark promises to make something good happen. “I’m mostly going to win because I have moves to make on them,” Clark said. At 6-4, he also has the height to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Coaches keep Trojans on track ** Coordinators Tom Filipovits, John Quinn big part of the equation.
Parkland head coach Jim Morgans and his top assistant coaches, Tom Filipovits and John Quinn, have been coaching together longer than any of the Trojan players have been alive. They’ve had so much success together that parting ways would be difficult. “I never think about it…
· Andre D. Williams
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Smallest Trojans stand tall ** Erik Zuber and Sam Tajiri are two big reasons Parkland has gotten this far.
Eric Zuber and Sam Tajiri are two of the smallest and lightest players on the roster of Parkland’s undefeated football team. But they are also two of the most respected — by their teammates and opponents. That’s because Zuber, a 5-7, 160-pound junior, and Tajiri, a 5-9,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland drives to state football semifinals ** Easy 44-12 victory over less powerful Philadelphia Public League champions moves Trojans toward a shot at a second state title.
It wasn’t necessarily David against Goliath, but the Parkland Trojans were bigger, stronger and more experienced than the George Washington Eagles and showed no mercy as they roared past the Philadelphia Public League champions Saturday and on to the state football semifinals.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland impresses GW’s coach ** He says Eagles will have to play “perfect game.’
The George Washington High School football team has never traveled up the Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike to play a game, but the Eagles were scheduled to board a bus in Philadelphia at about 6:30 this morning bound for Allentown and J. Birney Crum Stadium. The…
· Andre D. Williams
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Young women’s team faces uphill climb ** ‘Hounds hit early with injuries; veteran coach aims for winning record.
Moravian coach Mary Beth Spirk has what can be considered a platinum resume. She led the Greyhounds to six NCAA Division III Tournaments and posted winning seasons in 18 of her 20 seasons at Moravian. Her last NCAA Tournament appearance was in the 2005-06 season. “It seems like…
· Andre D. Williams
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Trojans hold off Hazleton ** Sam Tajiri’s go-ahead TD, game-saving block of FG the difference. ** PIAA Class 4A Football Playoffs: Parkland 16, Hazleton 14
It was like the final seconds of the 15th round of a heavyweight title fight and it was close. For Parkland, it was also all too similar to the last time it went came down to the final seconds of a playoff game, and it lost on a field goal. But 371 days after suffering…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland’s “D’ to face toughest test ** Stingy Trojans charged with containing Hazleton star RB Nate Eachus.
His name is Nate Eachus and Parkland’s defense will see a lot of him in the District 11-2 Class 4A subregional final tonight in Orefield. The Hazleton senior running back figures to be the challenge of all challenges for the Trojans, who have posted shutouts in seven of their…
· Andre D. Williams
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Freedom looking for first football championship of any kind ** EASTERN CONF. FOOTBALL
Any team that’s still playing football past the first week of November has something to treasure, which is why Freedom and Whitehall plan to go all out tonight when they meet for the Eastern Conference Class 4A title. Kickoff is at 7 at Whitehall. Both teams are 8-4. They did…
· Andre D. Williams
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Success of this Parkland team stirs debate
Parkland coach Jim Morgans has been speechless all week, despite requests seeking comment about the dominance of the 2007 Trojans, who are 11-0 and have posted seven straight shutouts. The Trojans’ 17-0 win over Emmaus in the District 11-2 Class 4A subregional quarterfinals…
· Andre D. Williams
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Some LVC football teams already have a wish list for ’08
How many Lehigh Valley Conference teams already have a wish list for next season? Five teams are still playing — Liberty and Parkland in the District 11-2 Class 4A playoffs; Freedom and Whitehall in the Eastern Conference 4A title game Friday night. Easton lost to Hazleton,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Green Hornets, Falcons take flight ** Emmaus’ Davis brings intensity ** Football playoffs
It was a failed defensive stop that frustrated young defensive lineman Joe Davis more than the average flag football player. His mother, Lisa, still remembers the play that America’s Funniest Videos would have loved. “Joey was running downfield trying to get the kid’s flag, but…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty looking for hat trick at districts
Parkland has put together back-to-back undefeated regular seasons and the PIAA Class 4A title in 2002, which will forever warm Trojan hearts. Easton has nine straight district playoff appearances, the second most wins in state history, and, of course, that 100th game…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty lays it on the line, beats Freedom handily ** The Hurricanes head to district playoffs and the Patriots do not.
Liberty quarterback Anthony Gonzalez accounted for more than 200 yards of offense, wideout Joey Orlando made circus catches and tailback Ahkeem Smith gained the tough yards. All three owe gratitude to big Levi Brown and the other Hurricane offensive linemen for the way they…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty-Freedom rivalry reaches pinnacle Saturday ** With playoff spots up for grabs, both teams have a lot on the line.
A player from Freedom High apparently said something that offended players from Liberty. “This is the first time that we’re the underdogs in a game, which is pretty surprising, but let the best team win,” said Liberty senior linebacker Brendan Beal, who verbally committed to the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Each team still has something to play for
All 12 Lehigh Valley Conference teams have something important to play for in the final regular season games Friday and Saturday. In alphabetical order: Allen (0-9, 0-8): The Canaries, who’ve scored just 18 points all season, will try to get out of the last place by beating…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hurricane Beal heading to Florida ** Liberty linebacker makes announcement on national TV.
Liberty senior linebacker Brendan Beal figured he was in a no-lose situation. He had scholarship offers from defending national champion Florida, perennial powerhouses USC, LSU and Boston College, which is currently ranked No. 2 in the Bowl Championship Series and No. 2 by the…
· Andre D. Williams
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It could be a night to remember
The intensity level among certain teams figures to exceed that of any other Friday night of the season. The increased shift in adrenaline is because of showdowns between rival Lehigh Valley Conference teams. Pick a game: Parkland (8-0, 7-0 LVC) at Emmaus (6-2, 5-2) or Liberty…
· Andre D. Williams
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Emmaus football getting the headlines
The Emmaus boys soccer, field hockey and swim teams may have reasons to be jealous of football stars C.J. Billera, Joe Davis and their teammates. That’s because Emmaus football is starting to steal the spotlight those winning programs have long enjoyed, and it may stay that way,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton’s Aponavicius helps BC Eagles soar ** The former walk-on has a scholarship and is kicking well for 7-0 club.
Boston College kicker Steve Aponavicius is still waiting for the perfect scenario: Final play of the game, win or lose on his field-goal attempt. Maybe that moment of make-or-break pressure will come Thursday night when Boston College, ranked No. 2 in both the Associated Press…
· Andre D. Williams
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If: The biggest 2-letter word in the language
Next week’s final regular-season games in the Lehigh Valley Conference will have even more suspense, if certain things happen this Friday. And the No. 1 if? If Parkland (8-0, 7-0) beats Emmaus in the battle between Cedar Crest Boulevard teams Friday, then the Trojans can clinch…
· Andre D. Williams
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Trojans taking nothing for granted
Parkland coach Jim Morgans doesn’t want to hear any talk about his team being unbeatable. Some people thought that of Liberty, which unraveled on both sides of the ball in losing 28-14 to Bethlehem Catholic last Friday night. “We don’t concern ourselves with other teams, except…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty using last year as motivation against Becahi
Liberty seniors Ahkeem Smith and Justin Rivera have been haunted for the last 364 days over what happened the last time they played city rival Bethlehem Catholic. Terrell Dobbins ran for 162 yards and Kyle John blocked an extra point attempt in helping Bethlehem Catholic…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton enjoys another Holley day, stifles CCHS ** Pressed into service at QB, Holley completes 11 of 13 passes in win.
Easton senior Jarred Holley started at quarterback for the first time in his career and experienced success both passing and running against the Central Catholic defense Saturday night. He completed his first five passes, a couple on spirals across the middle, and he stayed in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton will have its hands full with upstart CCHS
One week after losing its first game, Easton seeks redemption. But the Red Rovers have to beat Central Catholic to achieve it. It won’t be easy. Central Catholic has been one of the top early-season success stories in the Lehigh Valley Conference, helped by a strong…
· Andre D. Williams
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Golden Hawks looking to restore luster
Bethlehem Catholic is not about to wave the white flag just because it has three losses and cannot afford to lose another game. Not if it wants to keep alive hopes of making the District 11 Class 3A playoffs. There are many reasons why the Golden Hawks (1-3, 1-2) are in this…
· Andre D. Williams
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We’ll find out who has the answers
The high school football season reaches its midway point this weekend and the Lehigh Valley Conference has its share of teams with questions yet to be answered. The No. 1 question, of course, is who’s going to win the conference title? Liberty (4-0, 3-0) and Parkland (4-0, 3-0)…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kosciolek leads Central past Freedom, 31-28 ** His TD pass with 1:47 remaining is the gamewinner.
Central Catholic quarterback Thad Kosciolek was mesmerized the first time he walked into the Central Catholic athletic halls. “My first tine ever at Central I was walking through the coaches room, and they have all the state championship pictures of all the state championship…
· Andre D. Williams
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Emmaus no easy foe for Liberty
Emmaus can forget about being overlooked by high-powered Liberty in their Lehigh Valley Conference matchup tonight at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. That’s because one loss could be detrimental to the Hurricanes’ chances of earning the No. 1 seed and homefield advantage…
· Andre D. Williams
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LVC teams can make a statement
It’s Validation Week in the Lehigh Valley Conference. Thrill-a-second Whitehall (2-0) and high-scoring Freedom (2-0) both play their toughest opponents. The circumstances couldn’t be any better for both. Whitehall, coming off a 31-28 double-overtime win over Northampton, plays…
· Andre D. Williams
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Green Hornets in search of elusive win in Easton ** Both teams are coming off impressive season-opening wins at home.
What happened in Emmaus last Friday night is not being be dwelled on. That’s because of the request Green Hornets coach Joe Bottiglieri made to his players. Bottiglieri, who’s in his sixth season at Emmaus, tells his players to only concentrate on the current challenge and not…
· Andre D. Williams
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Central shows spunk in loss to Liberty
Normally, you wouldn’t think that a team could set a positive tone for its season by losing, but Central Catholic did it Saturday afternoon. The Vikings did it by fighting back from a 20-3 second-half deficit to pull within seven points of powerhouse Liberty late in the fourth…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton dominates Woodson ** But during win over team from D.C. Rovers star Holley is injured. ** Game of the Week: Easton 30, H.D. Woodson 8
Easton senior two-way star Jarred Holley was dazed after being gang-tackled out of bounds early in the second quarter and did not play the remainder of the Red Rovers’ season-opening game against H.D. Woodson Friday night at Cottingham Statium. No flag was dropped on the play,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Issuing another Hurricanes warning ** Liberty could be the team to beat in a loaded LVC.
Liberty is bent on trying to make it back to Hershey and finally win the PIAA Class 4A title, but first must earn its stripes against Easton and other tough Lehigh Valley Conference opponents. That’s because the LVC season figures to be another series of weekly dogfights.…
· Andre D. Williams
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It’s Their Time: Jarred Holley ** Like a collector’s timepiece, Easton’s Jarred Holley has proven himself to be a rare find that’s perfect for display in front of appreciating audiences.
Jarred Holley is now buying shaving cream and razors regularly. He’s also looking at life a whole lot differently as he enters his final high school season at Easton. “I’m growing up a little bit. That’s always good,” said Holley, 17, who will start at defensive back for a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Roderick ready to take shot at big time ** After being sidetracked by academic issues, the former Allen basketball star heads to UAB.
Terrence Roderick has finally moved on to a bigger stage, albeit a stage that is 800 miles away from Allentown, his closest friends and the guarantee that he could get a nice, fresh haircut any time he wanted it. But the former Allen High basketball star is happy with the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Beale brings big-time talent to Liberty
Liberty High senior linebacker Brendan Beale requested the No. 1 for his jersey and was granted his wish without debate or jealousy. “I’m not cocky, but I’m confident that I’m No. 1, and that’s how I want to represent,” said Beale, a transfer from Roxbury High in New Jersey,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Beale brings big-time talent to Liberty
Liberty High senior linebacker Brendan Beale requested the No. 1 for his jersey and was granted his wish without debate or jealousy. “I’m not cocky, but I’m confident that I’m No. 1, and that’s how I want to represent,” said Beale, a transfer from Roxbury High in New Jersey,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Local cyclist finishes third at Junior sprints ** Saucon Valley High’s Rockmore impresses by winning last two races. ** Cycling
Several races involving some of the world’s top cyclists resembled chess matches on wheels at the Valley Preferred Cycling Center Tuesday night. Many were nip-and-tuck, including the final two races for crowd favorite Lanell Rockmore, who’s entering his junior year at Saucon…
· Andre D. Williams
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Stewart is always on track when summer turns steamy
Tony Stewart is NASCAR’s version of former New York Yankees’ slugger Reggie Jackson. He gets hot when it’s crunch time, taking more checkered flags late in the season in much the same fashion as Jackson used to belt home runs in October. Stewart, 36, has won 17 races from June…
· Andre D. Williams
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SportsFest XI: Time to get your game on
Basketballs will swish nets and bank off backboards. Softballs and volleyballs will be smashed. Footballs and Frisbees will fly. Sheaves will be tossed, muscles will be flexed and dogs will jump through hoops. At the 11th edition of Lehigh Valley SportsFest, kicking off tonight…
· Andre D. Williams
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For Brant Weidner, time in NBA was all too brief ** The former Parkland High star recalls his half a season with the Spurs in 1983-84.
Aaron Gray has his first fan in Chicago, and it’s a guy who for 24 years had held the distinction of being the last Lehigh Valley athlete drafted into the NBA. Now 46 years old and with a surgically repaired left knee that prevents him from playing basketball anymore, former…
· Andre D. Williams
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Gray’s agent tempering expectations ** He and his client are OK with being drafted in the second round. ** 2007 NBA Draft – 7 tonight – ESPN
Aaron Gray is on board with draft analysts, who are predicting Ohio State’s Greg Oden and Texas’ Kevin Durant to go No. 1 and 2 in tonight’s NBA draft. “They can play basketball and they will be great,” Gray said. “They will be the No. 1 and 2 picks in the draft, let’s face it.”…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kovacs devoted, delays island trip ** 2007 McDONALD’S LEHIGH VALLEY FOOTBALL ALL-STAR CLASSIC
Bethlehem Catholic’s Joe Kovacs is committed beyond the norm to playing in McDonald’s Lehigh Valley Football All-Star Classic at 7 tonight at Parkland Stadium in Orefield. If he wasn’t, Kovacs would be in Puerto Rico, perhaps tanning, eating spicy food and enjoying the scenery.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hectic days for Gray as NBA draft nears ** Emmaus grad getting positive feedback from workouts.
Aaron Gray is now two days away from a new basketball home. The 7-2 center from Emmaus High School and the University of Pittsburgh has traveled all over the country since the first week of June to work out for NBA teams. He makes his last stop today in Utah, and then he’ll fly…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lenehan looking to finish high school career with win ** The ex-Wilson QB leads the East in the Coaches All-Star game.
Wilson quarterback D.J. Lenehan isn’t ready to be reminded of what it’s like to lose a football game. He hasn’t lost a game since Dec. 10, 2005, and that was in the PIAA Class 2A title game. Since that defeat, Lenehan has gone 16-0 as a starter, winning each game during a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Third time is the charm for Persa ** Liberty QB is the MVP as Pennsylvania stops Ohio, 28-10, in Big 33.
Liberty quarterback Dan Persa once again found himself running for his life at Hersheypark Stadium. But this time he used elusive moves and breakaway speed to twice escape and rumble to the end zone. This time, Persa also kept making big plays, running and passing en route being…
· Andre D. Williams
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Moncman whetting his appetite ** The Liberty coach, assisting at Big 33, is looking forward to fall. ** Big 33 Classic
Liberty coach Tim Moncman is a happy student this week. That’s because he’s learning from other coaches who’ve won state championships. Moncman, 37, is still chasing that dream. He led Liberty to the PIAA Class 4A title game the last two years, but fell miserably short both…
· Andre D. Williams
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Driven to succeed ** Kovacs is inspired by deceased father ** The Morning Call 2007 Boys and Girls Track Athletes of the year
Every time he makes his spin move and lifts the shot put, Bethlehem Catholic’s Joe Kovacs is pointing toward heaven, where his father, Joe, has been watching and enjoying his every throw. His mother, Joanna, has been only a hug away, offering warmth, support, and also the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Becahi’s Kovacs establishes state 2A record in shot ** His throw of 64-103/4 also sets L.V. mark. Miller, Fahringer capture silver.
Bethlehem Catholic’s Joe Kovacs delivered his best-ever shot put to win the Class 2A gold medal and establish a record in the PIAA Track and Field Championships Friday at Shippensburg University. Whitehall’s Andy Fahringer, in the discus, and Catasauqua pole vaulter Kyle Miller…
· Andre D. Williams
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VanAckeren chasing elusive state title ** Liberty junior has lettered in 5 sports and has gotten close to a gold medal, but hasn’t won one.
Liberty junior Trevor VanAckeren is participating in his fifth varsity sport this school year and he appears to be just as charged up running distance races as he was booting soccer balls and kicking footballs through the uprights in the fall. That’s because he’s still in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Becahi’s Kovacs has shot at a gold haul in Shippensburg
Bethlehem Catholic senior Joe Kovacs is seeded No. 1 in the Class 2A shot put and discus by wide margins, which gives him a strong chance of winning two gold medals in the PIAA Track and Field Championships. Several other Lehigh Valley male athletes also appear to have strong…
· Andre D. Williams
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Gray working on improving draft status, defying “experts’ ** The 7-0 center from Emmaus is projected as a late first-round, early second-round NBA pick.
Aaron Gray is not out to prove anybody wrong, especially mock draft experts, who each week post on Web sites their predictions of where players will likely be drafted in next month’s NBA draft. Gray is not out to prove them wrong because he doesn’t care what they think. “If you…
· Andre D. Williams
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A shot heard ’round the Valley ** Becahi’s Joe Kovacs broke Mike Hartenstine’s 36-year-old throwing mark.
Mike Hartenstine was an All-American defensive lineman at Penn State and a starter on the Chicago Bears’ 1985 Super Bowl team. He said both experiences were unbelievable. For years, Hartenstine, who lives in Chicago, also savored the area shot put record of 62 feet, 11 3/4…
· Andre D. Williams
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After rains, athletes shine at districts ** Catasauqua’s Miller sets 2A record in boys pole vault. ** District 11 Track & Field Championships
Bothered little by the rain and dark clouds, Catasauqua junior Kyle Miller cleared 14 feet, 7 inches to establish a Class 2A record in the pole vault in the District 11 Track and Field Championships Thursday at J. Birney Crum Stadium. The height was a personal best for Miller,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Throwers have records in sights ** Becahi’s Joe Kovacs, Whitehall’s Andy Fahringer confident. ** District 1 Boys Track
The chase is on again for Bethlehem Catholic standout thrower Joe Kovacs. Kovacs, a senior, will attempt to break the area shot put record of 62-113/4 in the District 11 Track and Field Championships. The two-day event begins at 3 p.m. today at J. Birney Crum Stadium in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Salisbury’s Santos, Catty’s Miller, Wilson’s boys shine at Colonial
He’s diminutive and he goes to a small school, but Salisbury’s Anuerys Santos proved that he’s one of the area’s best sprinters by sweeping the sprints in the Colonial League track and field championships on Thursday. “I have something in me: I don’t quit. I know for sure that…
· Andre D. Williams
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Wagner would like to know smell of success at Shippensburg
The chance of an athlete winning a medal in his or her first PIAA Track and Field Championships is pretty slim. Often, athletes who were dominant in an event in intra-district competition, complete their high school careers without ever having won a state medal. Ryan Wagner, a…
· Andre D. Williams
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LVC throwers put on a show ** Fahringer, Kovacs shine in boys meet ** LVC Boys and Girls Track and Field Championships
Standout throwers Joe Kovacs of Bethlehem Catholic and Andy Fahringer of Whitehall both faced immense pressure Tuesday afternoon. It was in different events, and the chase was also different for both in Day 1 of the Lehigh Valley Conference Track and Field Championships at J.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kovacs and Fahringer are going gold fishing ** They’re two of the state’s best throwers and each is looking to win two gold medals at states.
Seniors Joe Kovacs of Bethlehem Catholic and Andy Fahringer of Whitehall have had as much attention paid to them in the throwing events as sprinters, the usual glamor grabbers, have had heeped on them this spring. It’s been hard not to pay attention to good pals Kovacs and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Smith trying to bring success back to Dieruff
Dieruff has not had a top-notch boys track and field athlete since Andrew Battle nine years ago and not a standout sprinter since Stacy McCarthy won the District 11 Class 3A title in the 100- and 200-meter dashes in 1996. There have been a lot of downs since then, but first-year…
· Andre D. Williams
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Becahi’s Kovacs settles for fourth in discus ** Coming off a 180-10 throw Friday, the senior manages only 169-2.
Bethlehem Catholic senior Joe Kovacs had the mark he wanted to reach in the discus visualized Saturday morning. He just pressed too hard to try and reach it, which threw off his mechanics and spoiled his chance of winning the high school discus event in his first-ever Penn…
· Andre D. Williams
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Whitehall’s Fahringer takes fourth in javelin ** The Zephyr senior wasn’t overly pleased with his 194-8 throw. ** Penn Relays
Mother Nature frowned on the Penn Relays on Friday. But Whitehall senior Andy Fahringer didn’t use the grey clouds, drizzle, and slippery runway as an excuse for not winning the high school javelin championship event at Rhodes Field. The competition was just the best field he’s…
· Andre D. Williams
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Teams need to compete in more invitationals ** BOYS TRACK
The high school track and field preseason is now over. It’s time to get serious. The athletes who are likely to contend for district and state titles will be competing in either the 113th Penn Relay’s in Philadelphia this weekend or in today’s Allentown School District…
· Andre D. Williams
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Fahringer, Kovacs: They’re tops in this field ** District 11’s best throwers could contend for state gold. ** Boys Track Preview
Seniors Andy Fahringer of Whitehall and Joe Kovacs of Bethlehem Catholic headline the top returning boys track and field performers in District 11 this spring. Both are standout throwers. Fahringer is the defending PIAA Track and Field Class 3A discus champion. Fahringer, who’s…
· Andre D. Williams
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“Bracket Showdown’ fails to live up to hype
The Morning Call tabbed it as “Bracket Showdown 2007” — the sportswriter vs. the hairstylist. I considered it as a no-win situation. How could I not? Here’s me, an avid basketball fan before I even knew how to tie my own shoes and a college basketball writer, picking NCAA…
· Andre D. Williams
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Gray guards against letdown ** His Panthers play VCU, which upset Duke on Thursday.
Aaron Gray’s uncle, Steve, a former Duke player, had his dream for a second-round NCAA Tournament matchup between his alma mater and Pittsburgh spoiled. But Steve Gray, who played at Duke 1975-79, did not cancel his flight and room reservations after Virginia Commonwealth…
· Andre D. Williams
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Gray, Pitt do little wrong, beat Wright ** The 7-0 senior center from Emmaus shines defensively in easy first-round win. ** NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament
. Pittsburgh center Aaron Gray played strong on defense and relied on his teammates to carry the offensive load Thursday night at HSBC Arena. Smaller Wright State could not contend, falling behind by as many as 22 points in the second half and losing, 79-58 in an NCAA Tournament…
· Andre D. Williams
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Wright frame of mind ** Pitt’s Gray shakes off Big East finale, ready for Wright State. ** NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament
Aaron Gray has his confidence back. Now, he’s hoping to prove that his shooting touch is also back when third-seeded Pittsburgh meets No. 14 Wright State in an NCAA West Regional first-round game tonight at HSBC Arena. He missed layups, hooks, and jump shots en route to a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hoyas’ Hibbert handcuffs Gray in Big East title game ** The Emmaus grad, plagued by foul trouble, scores just three points, shooting 1-for-13 from the field.
Aaron Gray’s matchup against rival center Roy Hibbert in the Big East tournament championship game Saturday night at Madison Square Garden was lopsided. It wasn’t in Gray’s favor. The 7-0 Gray, Pittsburgh’s senior center and Emmaus High graduate, didn’t score his first field…
· Andre D. Williams
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Bad start dooms Villanova ** Wildcats miss their first nine shots, fall behind 26-2 and lose to Hoyas.
Villanova’s chase for the Big East tournament title ended Thursday afternoon in Madison Square Garden. But memories from the ninth-seeded Wildcats’ 62-57 loss to top-seeded Georgetown in the quarterfinals will linger for a while. That’s because Villanova (22-9) went from missing…
· Andre D. Williams
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Awful start dooms ‘Nova in Big East loss to Hoyas ** Wildcats miss their first nine shots, fall behind 26-2, fall to Georgetown.
Villanova’s chase for the Big East tournament title ended Thursday afternoon in Madison Square Garden. But memories from the ninth-seeded Wildcats’ 62-57 loss to top-seeded Georgetown in the quarterfinals will linger for a while. That’s because Villanova (22-9) went from missing…
· Andre D. Williams
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Molinaro centering on positives ** Former Central Catholic star looking forward to doing big things next season at PSU
Times are not as tough as they may seem for Penn State sophomore Courtney Molinaro, a former Central Catholic basketball star. That’s because Molinaro is not discouraged by the meager 8.9 minutes per game she averages, fourth lowest on the team, or her 1 point per game scoring…
· Andre D. Williams
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DeSales men and Muhlenberg women weren’t ready to call it a season
The Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference Division III South tournament is the equivalent of the Division I NIT and WNIT tournaments. But that doesn’t mean that the games will be any less intense for the DeSales men’s and the Moravian women’s teams, who accepted ECAC playoff…
· Andre D. Williams
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Neutral sites might be way to go for league tournament
The Patriot League Tournament starts next Wednesday with the top four seeds hosting quarterfinal games. The two remaining highest seeds will host semifinal games next Sunday. The championship game will be held at the surviving highest seed. This is the first year the league has…
· Andre D. Williams
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Bison brush aside Mountain Hawks ** Bucknell answers challenges in Patriot League victory.
Lehigh scrapped hard for every basket, rebound, and steal it got Wednesday night. But that determined effort didn’t result in victory against Bucknell, which prevailed in a 69-56 victory before a crowd of 2,530 at Stabler Arena. The Bison dominated Lehigh in most categories, but…
· Andre D. Williams
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Mule men stubbornly persist and are rewarded with playoff birth
The Muhlenberg men’s team finished 9-9 again in Centennial Conference play and in fifth place for the second straight season, which seems like the Mules did not make an improvement. But records don’t always tell the story, especially this tale of a Mules team that went from…
· Andre D. Williams
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ESU’s Antolick making the most of her “comeback’ season
You’ve probably heard of Michael Jordan coming out of retirement, Evander Holyfield repeatedly leaving his rocking chair to return to the ring, and Brett Favre declining to retire. But they are professional athletes. Alyssa Antolick, a former 1,000-point scorer at Bethlehem…
· Andre D. Williams
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Dungy, Smith source of pride for Taylor
Super Bowl XLI is a huge event for Lehigh men’s basketball coach Billy Taylor, who grew up in the suburbs of Chicago, loving the Bears with all of his heart. But on Sunday his heart will be split. “I’m a Bears fan through and through,” he said, “but I really like Tony Dungy and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Stars and suitors at Fest ** Parkland was the place to be for hoop fans and college recruiters.
Villanova has another fearless guard with a nasty crossover dribble and awesome finishing ability coming to the Main Line in the fall. Corey Fisher, the starting point guard for nationally ranked St. Patrick’s of Elizabeth, N.J., displayed his wide range of skills before an…
· Andre D. Williams
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One more shot for Olivero and Neptune
Jose Olivero believed he had a strong game. Kyle Neptune wanted him to prove it. That was four summers ago, when both were incoming freshmen at Lehigh. Olivero was coming from the Washington metropolitan area, Neptune from Brooklyn, N.Y. They were both guards, Neptune three…
· Andre D. Williams
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DeSales still n it despite blowout
DeSales College has to move forward and forget its stinker Tuesday night in Madison, N.J. Losing 72-38 to FDU-Florham was bad — really bad — considering the Bulldogs were just 1-for-16 on 3-pointers and 15-for-56 overall from the field for 27 percent shooting. Also bad is that…
· Andre D. Williams
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Muhlenberg women remain among ranks of unbeatens
Muhlenberg women’s coach Rohn closed out 2006 with the area’s only undefeated team, but also with the same concern as all the other Division II and III coaches. And that concern was whether or not his team could be wrinkle free in its first game of 2007. He got his answer on…
· Andre D. Williams
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Flat-footed Greyhounds lose opener ** Outrebounded 25-4 on offensive boards, Moravian falls. ** Moravian women
Moravian didn’t have to think too long to figure out why it lost Friday night. Not being as athletic as William Patterson was one reason, but the Greyhounds did not help their cause by failing to execute the basics. William Patterson had four double-figure scorers, led by…
· Andre D. Williams
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Persa voted best in area, and state ** The Liberty senior QB is Morning Call big school, AP 4A player of year. ** The 2006 Morning Call Football Co-Players of the Year
Liberty senior quarterback Dan Persa got an early Christmas gift on Saturday. And it wasn’t gift-wrapped. But Persa, who recently capped off the best statistical season by a quarterback in school history, got the gift he’s coveted his entire career. He was named the Associated…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Canes say speed not the issue ** Liberty looked slow in loss, but coaches blame injuries, fatigue.
Liberty seemed like it was moving in slow motion at times against Upper St. Clair on Saturday night. And the scoreboard reflected it. Upper St. Clair, led by five rushing touchdowns from Indiana University-bound tailback Dane Conwell, trounced the Hurricanes 47-13 in the PIAA…
· Andre D. Williams
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Wilson’s gang of 11 brings down Jeannette’s Pryor ** Impressive 6-6 junior QB is outmatched by Warriors in second half.
One vs. 11 doesn’t work on the football field. Wilson’s defense proved that en route to winning the PIAA Class 2A Championship Saturday at Hersheypark Stadium. The Warriors did it by halting Jeannette quarterback Terrell Pryor’s one-man show in the second half. “We knew coming…
· Andre D. Williams
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Like Liberty, Upper St. Clair enjoying a dream season
Upper St. Clair coach Jim Render is still coaching the same way he did 28 years ago. Nobody at USC is complaining because Render has a 315-99-6 record that includes winning the 1989 PIAA Class 4A title. “I’m kind of a traditionalist,” Render said. “I still believe heavily in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Can Dan Persa be stopped? ** Becahi did it, but Easton did not. Now, it’s Upper St. Clair’s turn to try. ** High School Football State Championships
Even though Bethlehem Catholic and Liberty are bitter rivals, Golden Hawks coach Tarik Haddad is not about to cheer for Upper St. Clair Saturday night. Haddad is also not willing to share information with the Panthers’ coaching staff about how to beat Liberty. Haddad and his…
· Andre D. Williams
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Coaches being nice to other coaches isn’t such a bad concept
Players are always asked to exhibit sportsmanship and the same should be demanded of coaches. A handshake before, and especially after a game, is a good place to start. A few good words to each other isn’t a bad idea, although there are Lehigh Valley coaches who probably want to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Two coaches, same stories ** Comp and Moncman are first Lehigh Valley coaches to lead teams into consecutive PIAA title games. ** PIAA Football Championships – Saturday – Hersheypark Stadium
Liberty High coach Tim Moncman and Wilson coach Bret Comp have identical 27-3 records over the last two seasons. For the second straight season, both men have also led their teams into a PIAA championship game in Hershey. It is the first time in Lehigh Valley football history…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty at less than full strength as it prepares for state title game ** A few players are out with injuries, others recovering from bruises.
A few Liberty players showed up at practice on Monday still sore, some really sore. “That will go away as the week goes on,” Liberty offensive coordinator Bill DeNofa said. “It’s OK to be a little dinged up after 17 weeks.” But it’s not OK to be on crutches, which is the way…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty survives thriller, outlasts Pennsbury in 4 OTs ** Braxton Isaac’s tackle of QB on 4th down seals PIAA 4A semifinal win.
Enough. Everybody was spent, cold, and as several Liberty players admitted later, very sore. No matter what it took, Liberty defensive end Braxton Isaac was determined to finally put an end to the PIAA Class 4A Eastern final Saturday afternoon before a standing-room-only crowd…
· Andre D. Williams
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Is it still Hurricane season? ** Pennsbury’s staunch defense stands in way of Liberty’s return to state championship football game.
Liberty senior quarterback Dan Persa has a lot on his mind, but having his career ended by Pennsbury today is not one of them. He’s ready to play, ready to lead the Hurricanes to their second straight appearance in the PIAA Class 4A Championship game. The ‘Canes (13-1) meet…
· Andre D. Williams
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Mules’ Rohn quietly, quickly wins 100
Ron Rohn is winning at a faster rate than any past Muhlenberg coaches, and sometime next season, he’ll be the school’s all-time winningest coach. It took Tammy Smith, now coaching at Lafayette, seven seasons to win 113 games at Muhlenberg. Smith also lost 68 games during her…
· Andre D. Williams
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Clearing a path ** The line, and fullback Ray Mamuzich, lead the way for Liberty’s offense. ** LIBERTY VS. PENNSBURY, 1 P.M. SATURDAY
Three seconds. That’s all Liberty junior tailback Ahkeem Smith said he needs to follow his lead blocker Ray Mamuzich and find a hole in the defense. “It’s a big deal,” Smith said. “Three seconds, that’s all you need.” With honor, Mamuzich helps clear the way, often against…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty, Wilson reach state semis ** Petros and Persa power ‘Canes past Pioneers; Pennsbury next
With a little under 11 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter Saturday afternoon, Liberty finally called off its defensive assault. The 35-point mercy rule was in effect. Frankford then scored 15 unanswered points, but it was against Liberty’s second-team defense. And that…
· Andre D. Williams
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Frankford looks to avenge loss to Liberty ** Philly public league team lost to ‘Canes 42-6 in last year’s state quarterfinals. ** PIAA Football Playoffs
He’s 6-4, 305 pounds, and he enjoys sacking quarterbacks. He has scholarship offers from West Virginia, Temple, and James Madison. It’s hard not to notice Frankford senior defensive lineman Tyree Dudley. Last season, however, Dudley didn’t stand out all that much when Frankford…
· Andre D. Williams
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Consistency to bring Lehigh wins and fans
Nobody may ever see Lehigh coach Billy Taylor rattled. He’s just too smooth, and he’s played and coached at levels much higher than the Patriot League. But in today’s society, it’s always about what have you done for me lately. Winning sells tickets. Losing pushes fans away. So…
· Andre D. Williams
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Ahkeem the dream ** Liberty junior tailback Ahkeem Smith has scored 25 touchdowns. ** PIAA Class 4A Football Championships – 1 p.m. – Saturday – Northeast H.S.
With 22 seniors gone from last season’s PIAA Class 4A runner-up team, Liberty entered this season with only a few standout playmakers and vocal leaders. So it seemed. Senior quarterback Dan Persa figured to provide the playmaking, while seniors Oscar Rivera and Al Petros figured…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty knows all about Easton’s “three-in-eight’ ** Hurricanes not letting up on Red Rovers, who are playing 3 games in 8 days.
Liberty doesn’t want to hear any excuses about Easton being fatigued or too emotionally drained to play its best football. And Easton doesn’t plan to make any. “This is the icing on the cake for us,” Easton coach Steve Shiffert said. “Our kids will be just as determined…
· Andre D. Williams
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Rovers sack Stateliners 21-7 ** Easton defense gives P’burg QB Justin Viscomi little room to breathe. ** 100 The Tradition Easton vs. Phillipsburg
Easton came from the right and left with blitzes and bulldozed through the middle, and each time the result was punishment for Phillipsburg on Thursday morning at Lafayette College’s Fisher Stadium. Often, it was Phillipsburg quarterback Justin Viscomi being swarmed, and on one…
· Andre D. Williams
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Muhlenberg men laden with experience
More players have the freedom to shoot away at Muhlenberg this season. That’s what comes with experience, which the Mules certainly have with eight seniors back for its largest senior class in 25 years. In all, 84.8 percent of the offense has returned, which has created optimism…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton QB stands tall in pocket ** Despite being just 5-9 and in his first year at the position, Jon Baltz has helped his team reach great heights. ** 100 The Tradition Easton vs. Phillipsburg
With the exception of playing quarterback in midget football in Palmer Township, the only other experience Easton senior Jon Baltz had throwing the ball before this season was when he used to goof off with friends in backyard games. But despite his lack of experience, he’s…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hurricanes wait for smoke to clear
Last week, all Liberty heard about was talk about the Easton-Parkland District 11 showdown. This week, the majority of attention throughout the Lehigh Valley is on the 100th Thanksgiving Day meeting between Easton and Phillipsburg at Lafayette College’s Fisher Field. There’s…
· Andre D. Williams
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Face off BOB STEM
Phillipsburg coach Bob Stem has so many stories to tell, many of which will have you bent over laughing. He’s been involved in football as both a player and coach for more than 50 years. And though he was a center and linebacker on the Syracuse University team that beat Texas…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty flexes its muscle vs. Abington ** ‘Canes’ 42-7 win sets up rematch with Easton for trip to state quarters.
Easton-Liberty II is now set. Liberty tuned up for the rematch with a 42-7 annihilation of Abington Heights in the District 11-2-4 Class 4A subregional semifinals Saturday afternoon before a standing-room only crowd at scenic Comets Stadium. Liberty’s main offensive star was…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton-Parkland highlights football card ** Their PIAA subregional is one of several involving local teams.
Two streaks will be on the line when Easton and Parkland meet in the District 11-2-4 Class 4A subregional semifinals tonight in Orefield. Parkland (11-0) will try to extend its winning streak to 16 games, dating back to Oct. 21, 2005. The other streak belongs to Easton (10-1),…
· Andre D. Williams
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Viscomi is perfect as P’burg QB
Don’t pay too much attention to Phillipsburg senior quarterback Justin Viscomi’s skinny body. It doesn’t matter that he’s only 5-11, 170, or that he played defensive back his first two years at Phillipsburg, seeing no action behind center. Bob Stem returned to Phillipsburg last…
· Andre D. Williams
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Northwestern prove critics wrong
Several Bethlehem Catholic players bent over, some crying, while others simply appeared dumbfounded Saturday night. The Golden Hawks had just lost 35-33 to heavy underdog Northwestern in a District 11 Class 3A semifinal at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. It may be one of…
· Andre D. Williams
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Northwestern muscles its way to upset of Becahi
Northwestern brought everything it needed to Bethlehem Area School District Stadium Saturday night, except boxing gloves. Twice, Northwestern, however, was penalized for roughing the kicker, both 15-yard penalties that enabled the Golden Hawks to keep alive drives. But…
· Andre D. Williams
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The leaders of the pack ** Parkland returns to districts for first time since 2002 ** PIAA Football Playoffs
Four years after winning the PIAA Class 4A championship, Parkland returns to the district playoffs with a balanced team that appears capable of making another run to Hershey. The Trojans don’t have a running back breaking school and state records as Austin Scott did in 2002 with…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh and Olivero need others to step up
Jose Olivero is now the “Lone Star” in Lehigh’s backcourt. And he’s been a star since arriving on the Bethlehem campus in 2003. As a freshman, Olivero hit a jumper with 3.9 seconds left that lifted Lehigh past American, 59-57, for the Patriot League tournament championship at…
· Andre D. Williams
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Pius X can’t pass up chance to win
Pius X quarterback Cole Hildabrant has passed for 2,089 yards, and his favorite wideout, Wade Williams, has caught 53 passes for 883 yards and 16 touchdowns. Those are eye-popping statistics that have helped Hildabrant, a senior, and Williams, a junior, receive Division I…
· Andre D. Williams
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LVC powers set to make PIAA runs
Parkland, Easton, Liberty and Bethlehem Catholic, start your engines. It’s time to begin the more serious chase on the road to Hershey. Each Lehigh Valley Conference team is heavily favored to win its first-round playoff game this weekend. Parkland (10-0), Easton (9-1) and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Second-half rally lifts Liberty ** Hurricanes overcome strong effort by Freedom.
Liberty senior Oscar Rivera rushed to the locker room at halftime on Saturday afternoon, fumes seemingly blowing out of his ears. Rivera was frustrated that Liberty, the team with the high-powered offense and inflated confidence following an emotional victory over Easton last…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland has title, 10-0 season, top seed on the line
Parkland can complete it’s first 10-0 regular season since 1996 by beating rival Whitehall tonight. Even better, Parkland (9-0, 8-0 LVC) will clinch its first outright Lehigh Valley Conference title since 2002, the year the Trojans also won the PIAA Class 4A championship.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty staking its claim as LVC royalty
The Lehigh Valley Conference finally had a high school football game live up to the hype Friday night. It wasn’t because it was a shootout. It wasn’t because it went down the final seconds before being decided. It was because Easton and Liberty went toe-to-toe, each taking and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty-Easton: Expect the hits to keep coming
It’s no secret that Easton and Liberty want to hit each other hard. It’s still great hearing them say it. It will be even better seeing them do it when Easton (8-0, 7-0 LVC) and Liberty (7-1, 6-1) meet in the much-anticipated Lehigh Valley Conference showdown at 7 tonight at…
· Andre D. Williams
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Beast of the East ** Emmaus’ Aaron Gray is Big East preseason player of the year.
Aaron Gray plans to buy his mother, Sandy, a 41-foot boat, and his father, Michael, a plain white Ford truck. Gray plans to buy those gifts next year, because he’s likely to be quite wealthy after the NBA draft in June. Gray has a bright future as a professional basketball…
· Andre D. Williams
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Little John stole from ‘Canes, gave life to Hawks
Two weeks ago, Bethlehem Catholic senior Kyle John bulldozed through Liberty offensive linemen with the most fierce pass rush of his life. It was overtime, his Golden Hawks were ahead by a point, and it was loud inside Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. It became even…
· Andre D. Williams
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Aponavicius trying to keep both feet on the ground ** BC soph from Easton is flying south to take on Florida State Saturday.
College football has a Cinderella story that’s far more appealing than the ugliness that was the brawl between Miami and Florida International players last Saturday night. The story is the one about walk-on kicker Steve Aponavicius, the baby-faced Boston College sophomore who…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty’s on-field leadership under question
Andres Morales, Andrew Lee, Rich Jarnagin and Mike McClarin, all big playmakers with voices that carry on the sidelines and in the locker room, are not around to fire up their teammates at Liberty High, anymore. They graduated in June, but somebody else better try and find a way…
· Andre D. Williams
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Moncman molding success stories
Liberty coach Tim Moncman, a former linebacker at Lafayette College, a married man with two young children, and at times a father-figure to many of his players, deserves some praise. Even if his Hurricanes don’t make it back to Hershey to compete in the PIAA Class 4A…
· Andre D. Williams
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Former rivals look to help keep Liberty’s streak alive
No longer does Matt Rice have to worry about playing time. Like all good players, he wants to be on the field all the time. He didn’t get his wish at Bethlehem Catholic, but he transferred to Liberty after last fall and is now a two-way starter for the Hurricanes. “I was over…
· Andre D. Williams
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Trojans throw Kids for a loss ** When Northampton stacks the line, Parkland goes to the air. ** Parkland 28, Northampton 0
Parkland didn’t trample another opponent behind its Big Red rushing machine. Instead, the Trojans relied on the arm of senior quarterback Marc Quilling to roll to a 28-0 Lehigh Valley Conference victory over Northampton Friday night at Al Erdosy Field. It was a case of whatever…
· Andre D. Williams
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Red Rovers’ dogged “D’ the zero heroes
The Easton offense would have reason to be jealous of its defense, if it were not for the fact that most of the standout players go both ways. It’s on defense that they’ve excelled the most. “Their defense is outstanding,” said Whitehall coach Bob Panny, whose Zephyrs managed…
· Andre D. Williams
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For Fairclough, the first win is tough, sweet
Central Catholic coach Harold Fairclough’s shirt was drenched once again, his palms were sweaty and his heart was pumping fast. Finally, he was in a ballgame at the end, his first victory as a head coach within grasp if his players could make clutch plays late. It was Saturday…
· Andre D. Williams
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Emmaus and Northampton have something to prove
Easton, Liberty and Parkland are coming off 41-, 42- and 48-point victories. Just as telling is the fact that their opponents did not score. So, after three weeks, the “Big Three” have established themselves as the teams to beat in the Lehigh Valley Conference. Bethlehem…
· Andre D. Williams
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Scattene gives Becahi positive attention
Way too much attention has been given to the players who transferred from Bethlehem Catholic, and not enough praise has been given to the star wideout who stayed put after last season. But stay tuned. Golden Hawks senior Mark Scattene may soon play his way into some headlines.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Where’s the beef? Whitehall ** 300-pounders Recker, Schoenberger anchor a Zephyrs line tha tis the envy of coaches across the LVC ** 2006 Football Kickoff
Whitehall linemen Austin Recker and Eric Schoeneberger can eat, no doubt about it. But they’re quick to point out that they are not both six feet-plus and 300 pounds just because they throw down at every meal. Recker, a 6-4, 305-pound senior who’s receiving Division I-A interest…
· Andre D. Williams
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LVC teams have something to prove in openers ** LVC Football
The stadium lights will be on tonight from Allentown to Easton as Lehigh Valley Conference teams begin play. What should be expected? “I’ll let you know around 9:30,” Easton coach Steve Shiffert said a few days ago. “It’s a lot different when you have 3,000 fans out there,” said…
· Andre D. Williams
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The granddaddy of Easton-P’burg ** Harold Bellis, 90, has lived the storied game for the last 73 years.
Harold Bellis has experienced every aspect of the Easton-Phillipsburg rivalry for the last 73 years. Now 90 years old, Bellis is the oldest living man to have played and coached at Phillipsburg. “I saw my first game when I was 10 years old, 1926, and ever since then I’ve been at…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton-P’burg has had its share of drama, stars ** Many games, players remembered long after the final whistle.
As the 100th Thanksgiving Day meeting between Easton and Phillipsburg draws nearer, memories of the rivalry’s greatest games, players, and coaches come flooding back. There have been scoreless ties in 1944 and 1967, unexpected blowouts, like Easton’s 31-0 victory in 2004 in a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Teams lining up to unseat Liberty ** Parkland, Easton, Whitehall all chasing conference title.
Nobody is going to overlook Whitehall this season. The Zephyrs have too much size to be ignored as a contender for the Lehigh Valley Conference title, along with Liberty, Easton and Parkland. “We think we have kids who can be competitive and that are powerful,” said Whitehall…
· Andre D. Williams
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Upbeat Azubuike sees Temple resurgence ** East Stroudsbug South grad will switch to linebacker this year.
Leyon Azubuike, a former two-way standout at East Stroudsburg South, recently passed a test that Tour de France champion Floyd Landis and 100-meter dash co-world record holder Justin Gatlin both failed. And he had to get up at 5 a.m. on the first day of Temple’s practice to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Bethlehem boxer cries foul ** Rose Morales claims cheating, biased judges robbed her of a title.
Bethlehem middleweight Rose Morales doesn’t want to be considered a sore loser. She just wants a few facts to be known about her July 22 North American Boxing Council middleweight title match in Bermuda. She was flown to the island on July 21 and flown out on July 23. Champion…
· Andre D. Williams
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Nor-Gwyn puts an end to Nazareth’s stellar season ** Norco champions ousted from regionals with 13-3 setback. ** Legion Baseball
Nobody from Nazareth wants to dwell on the last game of the season, a 13-3 loss to Nor-Gwyn on Friday night. There are too many good memories from the 28-game season. There’s the Northampton County title it won for the second straight summer, an accomplishment that followed a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hoops classic takes new direction ** Management, rules changes will mark Mid-Summer Classic.
All-Big East Conference center Aaron Gray, former Colonial Athletic Association all-rookie guard Ray Barbosa and 2005-06 Morning Call boys basketball Player of the Year Terrence Roderick from Allen will play in the sixth annual Adult Mid-Summer Basketball Classic, which runs…
· Andre D. Williams
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Boyertown batters Nazareth for a 14-4 victory ** Nazareth faces Southern ARea today in a must win game.
Nazareth pitcher Ronald Manning walked dejectedly off the mound, his hat pulled down and his jersey drenched. “I’m tired,” Manning later said. For four innings, he had been brilliant, using his fastball and off-speed pitches to stymie Boyertown batters in a Pennsylvania American…
· Andre D. Williams
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Boyertown batters Nazareth for a 14-4 victory ** Nazareth faces Southern Area today in a must-win game.
Nazareth pitcher Ronald Manning walked dejectedly off the mound, his hat pulled down and his jersey drenched. “I’m tired,” Manning later said. For four innings, he had been brilliant, using his fastball and off-speed pitches to stymie Boyertown batters in a Pennsylvania American…
· Andre D. Williams
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N. Parkland battered by Boyertown ** Legion Regionals
Where’s the eraser? North Parkland needs it before taking to Owls Field at Ted Palka Park this morning. Two Buffaloes pitchers were battered for seven runs in the top of the ninth inning Tuesday morning, enabling perennial powerhouse Boyertown to hammer out a 13-3 victory in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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N. Parkland battered by Boyertown ** Legion Regionals
Where’s the eraser? North Parkland needs it before taking to Owls Field at Ted Palka Park this morning. Two Buffaloes pitchers were battered for seven runs in the top of the ninth inning Tuesday morning, enabling perennial powerhouse Boyertown to hammer out a 13-3 victory in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Trojans rally for 5th straight ** Heffner and Anthony ignite a late surge that beats Nazareth.
Amy Heffner ignited the Parkland girls rally from an eight-point deficit with steals, deft passes and the type of all-around hustle that could help her get on the radar screen of Division I scouts. Her Trojans teammate, Erin Anthony, has already received D-I offers, and the 6-0…
· Andre D. Williams
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Babb loses decision in his first amateur boxing match
John Babb’s lingering memory about his amateur boxing debut at SportsFest X will be over the decision he wasn’t awarded Saturday. Many fans may remember most the Scottish kilt and socks that Babb wore during his Pennsylvania Golden Gloves super heavyweight novice division bout…
· Andre D. Williams
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Finding a familiar ring ** John Babb is drawn to contact sports: Football, rugby, and now boxing. ** 2006 Sports Fest
SportsFest X figures to be about fun and adventure, so some people may think that John Babb is joking around when he fights in a kilt at Cedar Beach this afternoon. It won’t seem like a joke once the bell rings. Though his attire will be unusual, Babb plans to demonstrate his…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty’s Persa headed to Northwestern ** He’ll play his senior season with his college choice already made.
Liberty quarterback Dan Persa has made his college choice and is now focused on trying to lead Liberty to a state championship next season. “We got there last year,” he said. “We just need to finish the job this year.” Finish it, that is, before Persa, who established a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Bishop down with the cause ** Like his brother, Becahi LB enjoys taking part in McDonald’s game. ** High School Football
Bethlehem Catholic’s Mike Bishop won’t have to search hard to find his biggest fan Thursday night. His brother Matt, 19, who also played at Bethlehem Catholic, plans to be boisterous in the stands at Nazareth’s Andy Leh Stadium. Mike Bishop will be playing linebacker for the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Gray wants a few more titles before leaving Pitt ** Pitt center has decided to stay another year to win the Big East and then the NCAA title.
Aaron Gray has a passion for everything in the city of Pittsburgh, except the Super Bowl-champion Steelers. “I was never an Eagles fan,” Gray said with laughter. “I was never a Steelers fan. I’m a Raiders fan.” But Gray loves the fans who cheer on the Steelers because a lot of…
· Andre D. Williams
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Morales helps end Pennsylvania’s skid ** His physical play helps Pa. win Big 33 for first time in four years, 61-42.
Andres Morales bulled forward and rammed into one Ohio player after another. He was Pennsylvania’s starting fullback, and to a large degree, he handled his job well Saturday night. He even mouthed off a few times, but Morales has never been the quiet type. He was the vocal,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Creating holes a way to heal for Morales ** He’s finally getting to play in Hershey, asa blocking back in Big 33.
Andres Morales is finally a day away from playing in HersheyPark Stadium for the first time. No need to ask if he’s ready. The Big 33 Football Classic is a game that Morales, Liberty’s all-state and Morning Call all-area linebacker, has always dreamed about. That’s why his heart…
· Andre D. Williams
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Big 33: Tears, thrills for Lee ** Former Liberty standout loves playing alongside the best in the state, will hate to see it end.
Andrew Lee has been confronted with one big test after another since practice for the Big 33 Football Classic began on Saturday. He’s had to learn new defensive schemes and adjust to covering wideouts who are faster than he is. He’s also had to prove that he belongs on the same…
· Andre D. Williams
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“Ol’ Prof’ has a nice ring to it ** 54-year-old Princeton engineer taking his shots in Larry Holmes’ gym.
The passion that burns inside Princeton University professor Edward Belbruno when he’s not working on an aerospace or astronomy project is different than that of most men in their 50s. Table tennis and scuba diving? Done that numerous times. Golf? Not interested. Instead, the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Fast company ** Allen’s Rushane Scott blazes a new trail for Lehigh Valley sprinters
Rushane Scott is still running on clouds. He can’t help it because his emotions have remained high. Last Saturday, Allen’s standout senior accomplished what no Lehigh Valley sprinter had done in 41 years when he won the Class 3A 100-meter dash at the PIAA Track and Field…
· Andre D. Williams
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District 11’s Scott, Fahringer set standards ** The Allen sprinter and Whitehall thrower had historic PIAA finishes. ** Boys Track
To become a state champion in the 100-meter dash, Allen’s Rushane Scott had to spend countless hours running sprints, often in the most unfavorable conditions, Whitehall’s Andy Fahringer spent as many hours tossing around a disc, javelin, and heavy steel ball. The payoffs came…
· Andre D. Williams
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Golden Hawks have a shot at PIAA gold ** They won the 2A team title in 2003 and could do it again.
Bethlehem Catholic did in 2003 what no Lehigh Valley team had ever done — win a PIAA Track and Field team title. Three years later, the Golden Hawks are boasted by a standout distance runner in Eric Yeager, a rising sprinter in Chris Carter and a top-seeded discus thrower in Joe…
· Andre D. Williams
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Scott hoping for a masterpiece ** Allen sprinter, also a talented artist, pictures success at states.
Give Rushane Scott a paint brush — or anything else to draw with — and he’ll craft an image of exactly what he plans to accomplish at the PIAA Track and Field Championships. Allen’s star senior sprinter will paint a picture of himself winning the Class 3A title in the 100 and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Seven Parkland High School athletes sign letters of intent ** Five from Trojan swimming and diving program among them.
It didn’t take long for Tyrone Faverey to become one of the state’s top high jumpers. The Parkland senior track and field star won the PIAA Track and Field Class 3A high jump title last year at Shippensburg University in just his third year as a jumper. He’s considered a state…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hawk runner is truly golden ** Becahi’s Eric Yeager hopes to add to his sizable collection of district gold medals. ** District 11 Track and Field Championships
Eric Yeager has eaten mostly pasta and has resisted the temptation for junk food since last Wednesday. He has also focused harder and trained harder. Now, a week later, the Bethlehem Catholic senior is set to close out one of the most successful distance running careers in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kovacs proving he can follow tough act — his mom’s
Joe Kovacs will never win 12 district gold medals, which is what his mother, Joanna Rampulla, a standout thrower for Nazareth High in the late 1970s, did. But two weeks from now, the Bethlehem Catholic junior has a solid chance to accomplish something his mother never did. And…
· Andre D. Williams
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Allen’s Scott, Parkland team shine ** LVC Boys Track
Allen sprinter Rushane Scott had other sprinters looking at the back of his jersey each time he ran Wednesday afternoon at J. Birney Crum Stadium. But he said his victories weren’t as easy as they seemed. Scott gained early leads in the 100- and 200-meter dashes and pulled out…
· Andre D. Williams
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Raising the bar ** Parkland’s Tyrone Faverey already has a state high jump title. Now he’s eyeing 7-feet.
The greatest athletic accomplishment of his life was over, and Parkland’s Tyrone Faverey and his mother, Karen, were driving back to the Lehigh Valley from Shippensburg. There was no music blasting, no horns honking. “I fell asleep,” said Faverey, who won the PIAA Class 3A high…
· Andre D. Williams
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Returning stars abound on area track teams ** Parkland, Liberty, Northern Lehigh, Becahi boast some of the best. ** Boys Track and Field Preview
The deans of area track and field coaches are back. Freedom’s Ray Herman returns for his 41st season and Southern Lehigh’s Brian Souerwine is back for his 34th. While not a lot has changed since last spring, a whole lot has changed in general over the years. “It’s amazing,” said…
· Andre D. Williams
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Adversity helps Donnelly mature ** Former Muhlenberg player thriving in role on Villanova staff.
For Jason Donnelly, the gut-wrenching final seconds of Villanova’s NCAA Tournament game against Arizona last Sunday night were nothing compared to the final days of his mother’s life. But the mentally tough way he reacted to both was the same. That’s because Donnelly,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Ray burns Arizona, ‘Nova moves on ** Guard scores 25 points, including four big ones down the stretch.
Everything was perfect for Allan Ray in the end — his vision, his foul shooting, and the situation. One year after being called for a controversial walk in the final seconds of Villanova’s 67-66 loss to eventual national champion North Carolina in the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Ray has everything in focus ** Villanova guard says his eye is fine on the eve of the tournament. ** NCAA Tournament
Villanova senior guard Allan Ray can see fine, and he’s ready to shoot. Past Monmouth and into the second round of the NCAA Tournament, that is. Ray practiced for two hours Wednesday afternoon at The Pavilion, on Villanova’s campus. His jump shot was on and so was his overall…
· Andre D. Williams
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Wildcats go wild over being No. 1 ** Villanova is awarded its first-ever No. 1 NCAA Tourney seed.
The only thing missing was a drum roll. Everything else was there — blowing trumpets and cheering fans and, as the moment of truth neared, heartbeats that raced off the charts. This was not the frenzied final seconds of a very big game. This was exuberance about the history made…
· Andre D. Williams
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Villanova’s Ray looking forward to return from eye injury
Villanova senior Allan Ray found out more about the New York City streets than he wanted to Friday night. He didn’t like it. Not even close, and the thing about it is he wasn’t driving. Instead, he was a passenger in an ambulance that was transporting him to St. Vincent Hospital…
· Andre D. Williams
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Syracuse stops Pitt in Big East final ** Gerry McNamara leads surprising Orange to 65 – 61 win
Pittsburgh center Aaron Gray’s walk was slow, his emotions were drained as he left the Madison Square Garden court Saturday night. His dreams of winning his first Big East Tournament championship were spoiled, done in by Syracuse senior guard Gerry McNamara and the teammates who…
· Andre D. Williams
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Syracuse stops Pitt in Big East final ** Gerry McNamara leads surprising Orange to 65-61 win.
Pittsburgh center Aaron Gray’s walk was slow, his emotions were drained as he left the Madison Square Garden court Saturday night. His dreams of winning his first Big East tournament championship were spoiled, done in by the spectacular play of Syracuse senior guard Gerry…
· Andre D. Williams
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Pitt stuns ‘Nova, 68-54 ** Wildcats guard Allan Ray is hospitalized with an eye injury
Maybe, the Big East Tournament just wasn’t meant for Connecticut and Villanova, the nation’s No. 1 and No. 2 ranked teams, respectively, to win. Maybe it’s just meant to be the G-Mac Show. Syracuse senior guard Gerry McNamara’s inspired play helped beat UConn in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Pitt stuns ‘Nova, 68-54 ** Wildcats guard Allan Ray is hospitalized with an eye injury.
Maybe, the Big East Tournament just wasn’t meant for Connecticut and Villanova, the nation’s No. 1 and No. 2 ranked teams, respectively, to win. Maybe it’s just meant to be the G-Mac Show. Syracuse senior guard Gerry McNamara’s inspired play helped beat UConn in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Villanova’s Lowry doesn’t fear rejection ** He’s only 6-0, but his specialty is taking the ball to the hoop.
Kyle Lowry doesn’t mind getting his shot blocked. He’s not going to stop driving into the lane. He always thinks he can score, that he has the advantage over the giants manning the post. The boyish looking Lowry is just 6-0, but the Villanova sophomore guard believes he’s best…
· Andre D. Williams
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Villanova gets honors, now chases reward ** BIG EAST
Jay Wright is now the top coach, and his star senior guard, Randy Foye, the best player in the Big East Conference. That was revealed Tuesday night in New York City, when Wright, following a 24-3 regular season that included going 14-2 in conference play, was named the coach of…
· Andre D. Williams
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Taylor crusading for Patriot League respect, NIT bid
Lehigh coach Billy Taylor hopes his season isn’t over, that the Mountain Hawks’ 19-12 record puts them in contention for a National Invitational Tournament bid. It’s nice to hope and it would certainly be a major boost for the Patriot League’s profile if Lehigh received a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh battling history — both distant and recent ** Hawks are 0-4 against Holy Cross in rourneys, have struggled recently
Lehigh plans to start its engine early this afternoon and keep it running. But the Mountain Hawks (19-11) do not have history in their favor. They have not beaten Holy Cross (19-11) at the Hart Center since 1998. They are 0-4 against the Crusaders in Patriot League Tournament…
· Andre D. Williams
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NCAA excitement abounds at Moravian, Muhlenberg
The Muhlenberg and Moravian women’s basketball teams have experienced enthusiasm like never before this week. They both hope to create even more excitement as NCAA Division III tournament play opens today. Muhlenberg, owner of a school-record 25 wins with just two defeats, meets…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh’s Olivero is first-team selection ** Patriot League
Back in November, Lehigh junior guard Jose Olivero was dejected when he found out that he was not named to the All-Patriot League preseason team. He posted that team up on his dormitory wall to fuel his desire to prove that he deserved to be considered among the league’s elite…
· Andre D. Williams
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Greyhounds, Mules heading south ** Moravian, Muhlenberg women open NCAA play in Virginia.
Muhlenberg, the Centennial Conference women’s champion, and Moravian, the Commonwealth Conference runner-up, will both begin NCAA Division III tournament play in Virginia on Friday. The coaches from both schools can’t wait to hit the road. And the players? “I think kids have to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Freshman Boyle leads Muhlenberg into NCAA tourney ** She makes big plays late to help Mules win first CC title since 1998.
Lauren Boyle’s adrenaline was still running high, so much so that the Muhlenberg freshman was thinking about what big play she could make next. Within seconds of that thought, however, Boyle was swarmed by her teammates. “Sometimes you don’t know that the game is over, but…
· Andre D. Williams
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It’s time to put a halt to the out-of-control fans
There’s little doubt that Lehigh and Bucknell have a heated rivalry, especially since six of the last eight meetings have been decided by five points or less. You’d expect the fans, those who are loyal, to be more jacked up than normal when the two Patriot League teams meet. The…
· Andre D. Williams
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Dawkins and Jenkins: Educate to elevate ** Neither famous athlete went to college, but both say it’s important to others’ success.
Baseball Hall of Famer Fergie Jenkins, a former Philadelphia Phillies pitcher, and former Philadelphia 76ers center Darryl Dawkins both went straight from high school to their respective professional leagues. Neither got to experience college, something both men said Thursday…
· Andre D. Williams
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Bison stampede is too much for Lehigh ** Hawks’ loss sets up a must-win game against Holy Cross.
The task is now daunting for Lehigh, which lost its rematch with Bucknell Wednesday night, and will have to refuel its tank for the Patriot League season finale at Holy Cross Sunday. The Mountain Hawks’ defense will have to be a lot better than it was in an 81-70 loss to…
· Andre D. Williams
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It’s ‘February Madness’ for local Division II and III teams
“February Madness” has arrived for local teams at DeSales, Moravian and Muhlenberg. That’s because playoff seeds and berths are on the line. The DeSales women (14-9, 8-4) will have their chance to punch a Freedom Conference playoff ticket with a road victory over Delaware Valley…
· Andre D. Williams
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College recruits sign on the dotted line ** Hard work pays off for Jarnagin, four teammates ** National Letter of Intent Day
Rich Jarnagin entered Liberty High School four years ago as a skinny freshman, but one with a lot of potential. He became stronger and faster and this year made several game-breaking plays on both sides of the ball to help Liberty go 13-2 and finish as the PIAA Class 4A…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh has to improve on the boards to get by Bucknell
Lehigh men will get another shot at Bucknell Feb. 22 in Lewisburg, and that could be for a first-place tie in the Patriot League. Bucknell finished the first-half of league play 7-0 — with Lehigh at 6-1 and wishing that shots had fallen a different way when the Bison visited…
· Andre D. Williams
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Olivero hits game-winner as Lehigh edges Holy Cross ** The last of his 29 points come with 4.3 seconds left in a 64-63 win.
There was never any doubt in Lehigh junior guard Jose Olivero’s mind. He was going to drive to the basket, and take on anybody who got in his way, including 6-10 Holy Cross center Tim Clifford on Saturday night. Clifford had blocked Olivero earlier, but that, Olivero said, was…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty’s Morales and Lee named to Big 33 ** They are the first Liberty High players named to the all-star team since 1976.
Liberty High defensive stars Andres Morales and Andrew Lee will have a second chance for a last impression of before closing the book on their high school careers. Morales and Lee were selected on Sunday to the Pennsylvania squad for the 49th annual Big 33 Football Classic in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hey, Lehigh students, time to stand up and be heard
Lehigh’s student fans have a chance to prove that they are more loyal than fairweather Wednesday night. They have a chance to get rowdy and become a more effective “sixth man.” They have chance to prove that Stabler Arena is a place you need to bring earplugs to rather than a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Villanova guards do job on McNamara and Orange ** The Wildcats shut down Syracuse’s senior leader in 80-65 win.
Syracuse senior guard Gerry McNamara made his final appearance in the Wachovia Center as a college player on Saturday. There was nothing he liked about it. “I had two open looks, my first shot and my last shot, and that was it,” said McNamara, a Scranton native who averaged 18.0…
· Andre D. Williams
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Spirk, ‘Hounds still going strong
The stage is never as big, the spotlight far from blinding, but Moravian coach Mary Beth Spirk has always considered the NCAA Division III playoffs just as important as March dancing that Division I teams do. That’s why Spirk and her players are dreaming big now, hoping that…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh’s Olivero showing major schools what they’re missing
Muhlenberg coach Dave Madeira knows a Division I player when he sees one, and his eyes lit up when he first saw Lehigh junior guard Jose Olivero catch the ball, turn and bury a 3-pointer with such ease on Wednesday night. Not just once, not just twice but five times in Lehigh’s…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh’s teams share a lack of consistency
The Lehigh men and women closed out 2005 by losing non-league games at Stabler Arena on Friday, but they cannot afford to dwell on those setbacks as they prepare for Patriot League play. And fresh starts. They have final tune-ups in doubleheader action Wednesday at Stabler. The…
· Andre D. Williams
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Understudy Bednarik ready if he’s called ** Former Becahi star and one-time WVU starter has had injury-plagued season.
Frank Trovato, the best friend of West Virginia sophomore quarterback Adam Bednarik, has drawn up the perfect scenario for tonight’s Nokia Sugar Bowl matchup between the Mountaineers and Georgia. It’s reminiscent of their senior season at Bethlehem Catholic in 2002, when…
· Andre D. Williams
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Ellis helps Lehigh wallop Fairfield ** She scores 20, leads Hawks to a 70-42 win and title-game berth.
Lehigh guard Sara Ellis swished 3-pointers off the dribble, and sometimes from another area code. She also had a sweet short-range game against Fairfield in the nightcap of the ninth annual Christmas City Classic, Thursday night at Stabler Arena. She was so confident in her…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty’s Morales chooses Rutgers ** All-state linebacker has gift for family — he’s staying close to home.
Andres Morales gave his mother, father, brothers, and sister Rutgers paraphernalia for Christmas gifts on Sunday. Then, the all-state and Morning Call all-area linebacker from Liberty asked them if they could figure out which college he had orally committed to attend next fall.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Waldron, Frey named first-team all-state ** Central lineman, Lehighton running back cap seasons with 3A nominations.
Lehighton running back Robbie Frey often ran by, and away from, linemen during a 2,000-yard season. Central Catholic offensive lineman Chris Waldron bowled over opposing linemen, and as a result, exceeded his own expectations in helping to clear the way for an offense that…
· Andre D. Williams
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All-state: Freedom’s Neely, Liberty’s Lee and Morales ** PIAA CLASS 4A ALL-STATE FOOTBALL
Andrew Lee took a few minutes away from watching King Kong at a movie theater Saturday night to reflect on some of the beast-like things he and co-defensive star, linebacker Andres Morales, did this season for Liberty. For Lee, there was the PIAA Class 4A Eastern final against…
· Andre D. Williams
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Moncman’s teams keep getting better ** He has built a program that was in disarray into a perennial winner. ** Co-Coaches of the Year
The biggest game of his coaching career, the biggest in school history, ended with Liberty getting drubbed 49-10 in the PIAA Class 4A championship game last week in Hershey, but coach Tim Moncman did not shed a tear. Not in front of his players, not away from them. After the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Junior quarterbacks set the standard ** After tasting success, Persa is fueled by the desire to win it all ** The Morning Call Big and Small School Football Players of the Year
Dan Persa was knocked down, intercepted, disheartened and even defeated in big games this season, but the Liberty junior kept coming back with pinpoint passing and breakaway speed to enjoy the most prolific season for a quarterback in school history. He finished with school…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty, Wilson see bright futures ahead ** Hurricanes can build on returning stars and renewed interest.
A little more than 12 hours after losing in the PIAA Class 4A title game, a few Liberty players engaged in a snowball fight inside Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. They were still disconsolate after losing 49-10 to McKeesport on Saturday night in Hershey. But the tears…
· Andre D. Williams
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Wilson’s Lenehan and Thomas still high-achieving duo
The flashbacks have been re-occuring throughout the season for Wilson wideout Adam Thomas. Flashbacks of how it used to be when he and his best friend, Wilson quarterback D.J. Lenehan, ran roughshod over youth league defenses. But the days of being standout youth players in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Nightmarish end for Liberty ** After leading 7-0, Hurricanes are simply overpowered.
Liberty ran into a machine in the PIAA Class 4A championship Saturday night at Hersheypark Stadium. McKeesport was the machine, especially on defense. The Tigers were superbly fast, from the quarterback to the tailbacks, and even to the kicker, who kept trotting onto the field…
· Andre D. Williams
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In the glare, Liberty wants to shine ** “We want this so bad’ says quarterback Dan Persa. ** PIAA Football Championships – 1 and 7 p.m. today – Hersheypark Stadium
Liberty quarterback Dan Persa showed up at Carl’s Corner steak and sub shop a few blocks from school earlier this week and saw an NBC-10 television reporter interviewing the owner about the football team Persa has helped lead to the PIAA Class 4A championship game. He was awed.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Wit and wisdom at Liberty ** ‘Canes’ distinguished staff combines heavy dedication with a decidedly light touch. ** PIAA 4A Title Game: Liberty vs. McKeesport – 7 p.m., Saturday, Hersheypark Stadium
They made jokes, lots of them. They will do so again tonight, and maybe even on Saturday before making the first-ever trip to Hershey for a Bethlehem Area School District team to play for a PIAA football championship. Pressure, you see, is easier to deal with when you share…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty’s Persa is one cool customer ** Junior QB hones his skills tossing the football around playgrounds.
Liberty quarterback Dan Persa tends to have as much fun as the kids he meets at the playground near his house. “Me and my friends will go there and just try to hit random objects [with a football],” Persa said. “I’ll hit the top bar of the swing set, then I’ll try to throw it at…
· Andre D. Williams
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Ref blew it, and Morales may pay price
An error in judgment was made by a PIAA official, and it will probably prevent Liberty senior Andres Morales from playing in the PIAA Class 4A championship Saturday in Hershey. It’s a game he’s dreamed about playing in his whole life, and he will spend tonight doing what he has…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty appealing call that could sideline Morales for title game ** He and the ‘Canes say he never threw a punch in North Penn game.
His fist was closed and he was steamed, but Liberty senior Andres Morales says he did not do anything that warranted his being ejected from Saturday’s PIAA Class 4A Eastern final at J. Birney Crum Stadium. But Ted Deptula, the back judge, thought Morales threw a punch, and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty knocks North Penn cold ** Hard-hitting defense propels ‘Canes to 14-12 win, PIAA title berth. PIAA CHAMPIONSHIP EASTERN FINANLS
Liberty’s Andrew Lee pounded his fist off his chest a few times, once after blocking an extra-point kick, and another time after scoring on an acrobatic reception in the end zone. But his most memorable pounding came after the most emphatic hit of the game, a shot by Lee so hard…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty isn’t ready to relax ** The Hurricanes play North Penn today for the 4A Eastern title.
Uniform turn-in is not scheduled for next week at Liberty, and senior lineman Mike McClarin would like to keep it that way. “We never think like that,” McClarin said Friday before practice. “We have to think that we are going get a state championship, like we did all year.…
· Andre D. Williams
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North Penn can be expected to run right at Liberty ** Knights have two 1,000-yard rushers with 27 TDs between them.
North Penn coach Dick Beck reclined in his office chair on Thursday and reeled off the names of Lehigh Valley players and teams he has admired. He humbly talked about his team, which is coming off a 55-20 win over Downingtown East in the District One championship game, which…
· Andre D. Williams
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Embracing all that life has to offer ** One of Liberty football’s driving forces, verstile Andrew Lee exudes enthusiasm on and off the field. ** PIAA Class 4A Eastern Final – 1 p.m. – Saturday – J. Briney Crum Stadium
Andrew Lee is like a magnet when it comes to the spotlight. He loves being in it. Whether he’s playing football, doing the pole vault, or in a classroom at Liberty High, Lee is often the center of attention “You never see him without a smile on his face,” said Liberty football…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty is on the brink of greatness
Nobody can look into the mind of Liberty junior quarterback Dan Persa, holder of the school’s single-season passing touchdown record, and see what’s brewing. Liberty fans probably hope that it’s full of excitement and drive, and that he doesn’t have any space available for fear.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Upsets? Some teams are already queasy
This college basketball season will not be devoid of upsets. They’re already happening, and the biggest so far was Bucknell’s 74-69 win over Syracuse in the Carrier Dome last Tuesday. Lafayette pulled off another stunner on Sunday afternoon, beating favored Princeton on the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty clobbers Frankford ** The Hurricanes advance to meet North Penn in the PIAA semis.
Now it’s time for Liberty to play a team that won’t buckle every time tailback Charles Irvin makes a dance move at the line of scrimmage, then breaks loose up field. Now it’s time for Liberty’s defense to match up against a team that won’t crumble every time linebacker Andres…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty clobbers Frankford ** The Hurricanes advance to meet North Penn in the PIAA semis.
Now it’s time for Liberty to play a team that won’t buckle every time tailback Charles Irvin makes a dance move at the line of scrimmage, then breaks loose up field. Now it’s time for Liberty’s defense to match up against a team that won’t crumble every time linebacker Andres…
· Andre D. Williams
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Frankford hoping to rebound after Turkey Day loss ** Pioneers, playing third game in eight days, face Liberty tonight.
Frankford did not tune up for its first-ever PIAA Class 4A quarterfinal appearance the way coach Mike Capriotti had hoped it would on Thanksgiving Day, losing to previously winless North Catholic, 12-0. But the Pioneers woke up Friday morning a renewed team, Capriotti said. They…
· Andre D. Williams
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Homecoming king Morales wants another crown ** Liberty star is focused on winning the Class 4A PIAA championship.
Andres Morales is the Homecoming king at Liberty, but he’s no pretty boy. The Hurricanes senior linebacker considers himself the opposite, because what he does on the field is not pretty. He hits hard, and doesn’t care if he gets bruised in the process. There are days following…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty’s offensive line might pave the way to the title game
Often you hear quarterbacks and running backs wisely give credit for their standout performances to their offensive linemen. Austin Scott, the ex-Parkland High great and owner of the state’s single-season rushing record, did it every week in 2002 en route to leading the Trojans…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty steamrolls Hazleton ** ‘Canes dominate offensively and defensively from outset. Class 4A: Liberty 42, Hazleton 7
Liberty missed no beats on offense, allowed only 20 first-half yards, and made its jubilant fans forget that it was below 30 degrees Friday night. Dominating play does that, and Liberty’s 42-7 bombarding of Hazleton in the PIAA District 2-11 Class 4A subregional final at…
· Andre D. Williams
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Zephs’ Gnall wants it all ** The Whitehall senior quarterback wants to win tonight’s playoff, have another playoff next weekend, and be in his brother’s wedding.
Mike Gnall is best man in his brother Joe’s wedding next Saturday. But, if Whitehall wins tonight’s District 2-4-11 subregional Class 3A title game, he may not get the chance to wear the tuxedo he was recently fitted for. The fourth-seeded Zephyrs (9-2) visit No. 2 Pottsville…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hurricanes blow into Hazleton for subregional final ** Liberty is led by QB Dan Persa and tailback Charles Irvin. ** PIAA 4A Playoffs
Liberty’s 48-10 victory over Easton last Friday earned the Hurricanes their third District 11 Class 4A Championship, and gave them a 10-win season for the third time in school history. It also finally got the monkey off the ‘Canes’ backs. They had lost nine straight to Easton,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh needs consistency from big men to contend
Lehigh coach Billy Taylor upgraded his non-league schedule, adding Princeton of the Ivy League and Big East preseason favorite and national championship contender Villanova. And the Mountain Hawks competed in the Black Coaches Association Invitational preseason tournament in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty breaks free at last ** Hurricanes romp from start to finish, win District 11 4A title. ** District 11 Class 4A: Liberty 48, Easton 10
Liberty opened fiercely, especially on defense, and continued to emphatically erase memories of past failures against Easton in the PIAA District 2-4-11 subregional semifinals Friday night. It seemed easy, especially every time Hurricanes linebacker Evan Bauer charged into the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Implacable Easton again stands in Liberty’s way
Defending 4A district champion Easton appeared unbothered by the fiercely whipping wind Thursday afternoon, and focused on playing with the same fury in its rematch with Liberty tonight. Despite the heavy wind, passes sailed crisply through the air, most landing into eagerly…
· Andre D. Williams
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Bulldogs face Wilson in PIAA 2A playoffs ** In Class 4A, Easton plays Liberty; Whitehall faces Abington Heights in 3A.
A coach who has established a legacy in the state, and who might be able to run for mayor in Slatington and win, is about to make one final run at a PIAA Class 2A title. But Northern Lehigh coach Jim Tkach would first like to win a PIAA District 11 Class 2A subregional semifinal…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty eases into rematch with Easton ** Hurricanes get their swagger back, wrap up third straight city title.
Liberty quarterback Dan Persa did not see black and red jerseys, or Jarred Holley blanketing his wideouts, or anything else on Freedom’s defense that served as a haunting reminder of his last game against Easton. Instead, Persa saw only open field, open receivers, and for the…
· Andre D. Williams
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For Whitehall, it’s eight down and one to go
Whitehall has won eight straight games, but may need to extend that streak to nine to secure a District 11/Sub-Regional Class 3A playoff spot. “It’s something the way things fell,” said Zephyrs coach Bob Panny. “After eight conference games we have a chance.” A chance to return…
· Andre D. Williams
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Tough sledding for Huskies’ first-year coach ** LVC Football
First-year Dieruff coach Jake Williams didn’t think he’d contend for the Lehigh Valley Conference title this season. He didn’t figure on finishing last, either, but that will be the harsh reality if Dieruff (0-8 overall, 0-6 LVC) doesn’t pull off an upset over the next two…
· Andre D. Williams
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Ready for an LVC showdown ** This is the game Liberty has been waiting for ** Game of the week — Easton vs. Liberty – 7 tonight – BASD
Getting mentally up for Dieruff on Sept. 16 at J. Birney Crum Stadium was no problem at all for Liberty, even though the Hurricanes knew they had major advantages on both sides of the ball. Liberty played Dieruff with the same tenacity it expects to have against Easton (5-2,…
· Andre D. Williams
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With all starters back, Bucknell the favorite ** Lehigh is picked to finish third, Lafayette seventh. ** Patriot League
Junior guard Jose Olivero didn’t hesitate when he was asked to be Lehigh’s student-athlete representative at the Patriot League’s media day Thursday at the College Sports Television Network, located at Chelsea’s Pier. That’s because the event was in the Big Apple, the one city…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Nova is No. 1 and liking the fit ** Big East Basketball
Fashionably dressed in suits, Villanova guards Randy Foye, Allan Ray and Mike Nardi, enthusiastically addressed the question they’ve waited so long to be asked. “How’s it feel to be No. 1?” “It’s a great honor to be chosen as No. 1 in preseason,” said Ray, who found out on…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Canes rout Nazareth, set sights on Easton ** Liberty improves to 8-0 with a 42-0 romp. Red Rovers are up next.
Breakaway tailback Charles Irvin and his Liberty teammates can now focus solely on next Friday night’s showdown against Easton at Cottingham Stadium. It’s serious business, serious because Liberty lost only two games last season, and both were to Easton. It’s serious because…
· Andre D. Williams
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Dawkins to be named Newark coach
Darryl Dawkins coached the Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs to United States Basketball League titles in 2001 and 2004, and had hoped that his success would land him a job as a head coach in the NBA Development League. He’s still hoping. In the meantime, Dawkins will try to win another…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Nova to get security from its guards ** Foye, Ray, Lowery and Nardi main reasons why team has high hopes.
Senior guard Randy Foye was one of the many Villanova players who could not wait for the first day of practice and for coach Jay Wright to say, “Hit the line for suicides.” The running drill, often held at the end of basketball practices, was welcomed. In fact, Foye couldn’t…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty hangs on for decisive win over Northampton ** Hurricanes open 35-0 lead, then stifle Konkrete Kids’ comeback.
Somebody needed to redirect focus and refuel the hunger in Liberty’s attack Friday night. Enter linebacker Andres Morales, who had already laid a few mean licks on Northampton players in a Lehigh Valley Conference game played in rainy and muddy conditions at Al Erdosy Stadium.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Top LVC teams in control of their destinies
Liberty, Easton and Whitheall control their PIAA sub-regional playoff destinies with four regular-season games remaining. All each has to do is win, though somebody will lose when Liberty (6-0, 4-0) and Easton (5-1, 3-1) meet Oct. 28 at Cottingham Stadium. Whitehall (5-1, 4-0)…
· Andre D. Williams
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Zephyrs are getting back to tradition
Whitehall does not care what people say about it, whether good or bad. It does not care if people say its lucky not having to play Liberty or Easton this season. Actually, Whitehall does not care about anything, except what happens on that football field each week. “I live to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty vs. Becahi: Bragging rights and more at stake ** LVC Notebook
Nobody is going to silence Rich Jarnagin, Liberty’s bullish tight end and linebacker. And he is particularly loud and animated when expressing his feelings about Bethlehem Catholic. The 6-1, 213-pound Jarnagin has had plenty to say this week because Liberty (5-0, 3-0) and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Vikings lost game, won hearts, minds
Central Catholic and Liberty established the identity of their teams in one quarter Saturday night. It takes some teams a whole season to do that. For Liberty, a 32-25 victor in overtime, moxie, determination, and clutch playmaking ability was discovered as it overcame an…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty storms back for emotional win over CCHS ** Mill’s field goal sends it into OT, and Irvin’s TD caps a big comeback.
Jonathan Mill, the Liberty kicker whose 37-yard field-goal with 4.9 seconds left in regulation glanced off the goal post and through the crossbar to force overtime, stood motionless on the sidelines. “I’m still shaking,” he said. But at least he was standing to see the finish.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty storms back for emotional win over CCHS ** Mill’s field goal sends it into OT, and Irvin’s TD caps a big comeback.
Jonathan Mill, the Liberty kicker whose 37-yard field-goal with 4.9 seconds left in regulation glanced off the goal post and through the crossbar to force overtime, stood motionless on the sidelines. “I’m still shaking,” he said. But at least he was standing to see the finish.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Shiffert is too focused on the team to care about his accomplishment
Steve Shiffert may be known to his players as a perfectionist, intense, and at times, intimidating. But last November, Shifffert’s soft side came out after a loss to Neshaminy in the PIAA Class 4A Eastern final. Shiffert, 53, cried for extended minutes, along with his players,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty, Bethlehem Catholic gearing for showdown ** But each has another tough opponent to try to get through first.
The game that will likely decide the Bethlehem city championship is a week away. But Bethlehem Catholic and Liberty must first contend with tough Lehigh Valley Conference opponents before worrying about their showdown at BethlehemArea School District Stadium next Friday night.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty’s Irvin shaking off life’s big hits, managing to stay on his feet
When Charles Irvin intercepted a pass at the 10-yard line with a little over five minutes remaining, he wanted to run for a touchdown, run out of the end zone, and if possible, run up into the Bethlehem Area School District stadium stands Friday night. In his dreams, his…
· Andre D. Williams
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Explosive Liberty gets a challenge in Parkland ** LVC Football
Liberty hopes to blow out Parkland in the same fashion it has its first three opponents. But it might not satisfy at least one Liberty High teacher. “One of my teachers said, “Can you make the games more interesting,’ but I said interesting games are usually the bad ones. The…
· Andre D. Williams
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CCHS, Easton both have something to prove ** LVC Football
Central Catholic seeks validation. Beating defending Lehigh Valley Conference champion Easton at 7 p.m. Saturday at J. Birney Crum Stadium would help validate the Vikings as a conference contender. “I don’t have to get them pumped up,” said Central Catholic coach Donnie Roberts.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Freedom still getting a good read on Roeder
Jason Roeder’s hiring was heavily opposed by most Freedom players in February when he was chosen to succeed Jim Morgans as football coach. Roeder, 30, had never been a head coach and most of the players had developed a closeness to Michael Heimbach, who had been an assistant on…
· Andre D. Williams
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Focused Liberty steamrolls Allen ** ‘Canes are on a mission, and the Canaries find themselves in their path.
The memory of his own watery eyes and the disconsolate looks on his teammates’ faces as tears trickled down their faces has not faded from Liberty quarterback Dan Persa’s memory. He cannot walk into the weight room or the locker room without being reminded of that 14-7 loss to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Brothers making a difference ** Liberty’s Oscar and Justin Rivera are setting an example for other Hispanic youths.
Brothers Oscar and Justin Rivera were so excited the first day they put on pads as 95-pound players for the Bethlehem Steelers’ football team that they went home and continued tackling. But not outside. Oscar and Justin, who now play for Liberty High School, plowed each other…
· Andre D. Williams
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Return to glory? These Vikings have a shot
Central Catholic will never be just an average football program, because the coaching staffs and players dressed in Vikings gear will always think they’re as good, if not better, than everybody else. Even if the victories don’t equal the always-high expectations. The fact is…
· Andre D. Williams
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Not a bad opening act ** Tonight’s Parkland-Becahi season-opener is intriguing on many levels.
He did not sleep with his helmet Thursday night and will not walk around school today with a football. But chances are Bethlehem Catholic quarterback Alex Atiyeh won’t take too long to get dressed in his brown and gold uniform for a Lehigh Valley Conference season-opener against…
· Andre D. Williams
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Loaded Liberty has all pieces in place ** ‘Canes lost only two games last year, and only three starters.
Liberty has “Hoagie,” which is what they call star senior linebacker Andres Morales, who’s being recruited by N.C. State, Duke and other Division I schools. It also has junior quarterback Dan Persa, an accurate passer and slick runner who’s healthy again and can pick apart…
· Andre D. Williams
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Happy Hargrove a winner ** ESU player leads Dan’s Siding to Mid Summer Classic Championship.
Danny Hargrove, a former Morning Call All-Area player got his wish to play in front of Allentown fans again and he made the best of it Sunday in the championship game of the Adult-Mid Summer Basketball Classic at Roosevelt Park. Aaron Gray, the starting center at the University…
· Andre D. Williams
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Haldeman Ford set to defend Classic crown ** Annual Mid-Summer Classic men’s tourney begins tonight. ** Summer Basketball
Haldeman Ford’s adult men’s basketball team is not expected to have a big advantage on the Roosevelt Park blacktop this weekend like it did last summer. That’s because Haldeman won’t have 7-foot center Aaron Gray to depend on as it tries to repeat as Adult Mid-Summer Basketball…
· Andre D. Williams
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Horton feels at home among the All-Stars ** The Richmond-bound wideout might also be seeing time at d-back.
David Horton has drawn up a few plays in his mind, plays he hopes to execute in the Big 33 Football Classic Saturday night in Hersheypark Stadium. They are plays that involve catching, running, eluding, and, of course, scoring a touchdown as Horton did so often throughout his…
· Andre D. Williams
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Boxer Palmer vows victorious return after loss ** Sportsfest Notebook
Easton’s Raymere Palmer talked himself up and believed he could back it up in the ring. The judges just didn’t see it that way. Palmer lost to Camden’s Mike Anderson in an action-packed 178-pound novice division title bout on a sizzling Sunday afternoon at Cedar Beach. The fans…
· Andre D. Williams
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Largest crowd keeps promoter Atiyeh smiling ** Sportsfest
SportsFest chairman Ray Atiyeh did not frown when Mother Nature dampened the Cedar Beach blacktops and grass with rain Saturday afternoon. Because not many people left the park. After the rain stopped more people began showing up, helping make the Day 3 crowd the largest in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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SportsFest begins with feeding frenzy ** Dignitaries gather to celebrate the start of the event’s ninth year. ** 2005 SPORTSFEST
Cedar Beach was packed Thursday evening. And not everybody was playing games. Or walking. Or running. There were a lot of people grabbing free food in the overcrowded SportsFest hospitality tent. On the blacktop, there were high school basketball teams playing their hearts out…
· Andre D. Williams
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He’s on the other side of the ball, but Kresge won’t take offense ** At linebacker, he made one of the biggest plays in Easton history.
Todd Kresge will have one more chance to make his mark on a Lehigh Valley football field Thursday night at Nazareth’s Andrew S. Leh Stadium. But he won’t get a chance to do it on defense, which was where he made one of the most memorable plays in Easton football history last…
· Andre D. Williams
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Dawkins “gives back,’ heads for Iraq ** ValleyDawgs coach patriotic about his trip to visit U.S. troops.
Darryl Dawkins is going across the ocean and Iraqi lines, where more than 1,600 American soldiers have died since President Bush deployed troops there in March of 2003. Dawkins is going there to crack jokes, raise spirits, and lace up his super-sized sneakers to conduct clinics.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Spring is their time to shine ** P’burg’s Gaymon clears all hurdles to be nation’s best
The bigger the meet, the tougher the competition, the faster Justin Gaymon runs. He’s winning gold medals and breaking his own Phillipsburg High track and field records. “The thing now is he knows he has the potential to be pretty good,” said Phillipsburg coach Bill Hurst.…
· Andre D. Williams
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McDonald’s Classic brings back memories ** Gold team coach Bob Goffredo, of Pius X, played in one.
Bob Goffredo was on the sidelines waiting to be transported to the hospital in his last high school football game, an all-star classic at Catasauqua in 1982. But he was cognizant enough to know the outcome. “Yeah, we won,” said Goffredo, now the Pius X football coach. “The boys…
· Andre D. Williams
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Faverey, Dezubay bring home state gold ** Parkland junior wins high jump ** PIAA TRACK AND FIELD CHAMPIONSHIP
Tyrone Faverey reached down and touched the surface, rose up and leaped high into the air. He landed, stretched his back, glared forward and, after a few seconds of deep concentration, the Parkland junior sprinted toward the high jump pit and the destiny that awaited him…
· Andre D. Williams
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Gilbert glides to gold ** Emmaus senior nails a 48-111/2 in the triple jump. Lehighton’s Miller medals in discus. **PIAA TRACK AND FIELD CHAMPIONSHIPS
Emmaus senior Nate Gilbert didn’t need his sunglasses until after his fifth jump. By then, he needed them to block the sun and to hide the tears he thought he was about to shed. He had one jump left and his heart was pumping faster than ever, because he had already clinched the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Just 6-feet tall, Carelli looking to scale new heights at states ** Parkland junior is seeded second in the high and triple jumps.
John Carelli doesn’t worry about the stares he often gets from more-imposing athletes, the ones he has to compete against in the high jump. He just does his thing. Often, that’s win. He’s just 6-feet tall, and many of the athletes the Parkland High junior has beaten in the long,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Southern Lehigh rolls to Colonial title ** Seniors pace the team to win nine running events on the day. ** Colonial Boys Track
Southern Lehigh stamped its name all over Bangor Memorial Park in the Colonial League track and field championships Thursday. But winning their second straight league championship — with 163 points — was not good enough for the Spartans. They can’t wait for next Wednesday and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Gloves are off, but the love remains ** Allentown’s Art Baylis is making a name for himself as a referee.
Art Baylis found dancing around the ring as a referee a lot safer than trying to dodge punches Saturday night. He is 46 now, and getting jabbed in the face is no longer appealing. His last fight was a technical knockout loss to Jason Waller Dec. 9, 1999. That loss dropped the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Blood, bruises and an appreciative crowd in Allentown ** Standing-room only crowd enjoys boxing’s return to center city.
The main event ended with blood, bruises, and two fatigued fighters Saturday night. The standing-room only crowd responded with a standing ovation. After a more than 50-year absence of professional boxing in center city Allentown, the John Karoly Four Corner Promotions show…
· Andre D. Williams
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“Warrior’ Rivera finds kicks in two boxing disciplines ** He’s a kick-boxing champion who hopes to be a WBC champ, too.
Light-heavyweight contender Olando Rivera will wear his warrior hat into the ring tonight for his main event fight at the Crowne Plaza. When he returns home to Tampa, Fla., he’ll put on his other hat, the one he wears when he’s around his children — 13-year-old Victoria,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Boxing hoping to revitalize downtown ** Seven-fight card marks return of pro boxing after a 50-year absence.
Professional boxing is returning to center city Allentown for the first time in more than a half-century Saturday night. Light heavyweight Orlando Rivera, ranked No. 13 by the World Boxing Council, will headline a seven-bout card produced by John Karoly’s Four Corners Promotions…
· Andre D. Williams
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P’burg’s Gaymon wins 400 hurdles in U.S.-best time ** His time of 52.44 beats a field heavy with Jamaicans in the rain.
Justin Gaymon refused to settle for a repeat performance of his 2004 showing in the 400-meter hurdles at the Penn Relays. Never mind the 9 a.m. starting time for the high school boys championship race, the wet track and the driving rain. All Gaymon, a Phillipsburg High senior,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Emmaus’ Luff regains his old form and takes second in 3,000 ** He rebounds from a poor showing in Utah to finish strong at Penn. ** Penn Relays
Emmaus High senior Sam Luff calmed his nerves and then went out and ran the best 3,000-meter race of his career Friday evening at Franklin Field. His debut at the Penn Relays was a memorable one. He used a solid breakaway kick over the final 200 meters to finish in second place…
· Andre D. Williams
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Cancer stole his life, but it couldn’t take Perryman’s legacy ** East Stroudsburg hoops star died 10 years ago this week
Arthur Perryman has probably looked down through the clouds countless times over the last 10 years to bless the people who once cheered and idolized him during his standout basketball career at East Stroudsburg High. Many of those people have refused to let memories of the…
· Andre D. Williams
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McCandless still chasing his goals ** Boys Track and Field
Northampton senior distance runner Tyler McCandless still wants to run a personal-best in the 3,200 and to beat area rival Sam Luff of Emmaus in at least one big race this spring. Recently, McCandless signed a national letter of intent to the University of Maryland where he…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kentucky woman funding Dawgs; Dawkins is back ** McQueen will decide later on whether to buy the team outright.
In with the new — and the old. The Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs are under new ownership for the third time in their six-year existence as businesswoman Valerie McQueen from Newport, Ky., completed all transactions with the league late Tuesday. And Darryl Dawkins will remain as head…
· Andre D. Williams
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The mirror isn’t kind to ValleyDawgs and USBL
The United States Basketball League enters its 20th season on shaky ground. It has shrunk from 11 teams to eight and went into the 11th hour to try to revive the Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs, the team it once considered its flagship operation. As of Monday afternoon, the defending…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Dawgs appear to have been saved ** The defending USBL champs had been in danger of folding
The Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs may have finally secured financial backing to survive at least another season and are expected to open defense of their United States Basketball League championship Friday night at Dieruff High School. Service Electric Cable president John Walson…
· Andre D. Williams
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Taylor enjoys living in the Valley ** The hoop coach, under contract through 2006, likes building at Lehigh. ** Lehigh
Billy Taylor insists that he was not interested in the no-longer-available UNC-Greensboro job and that he’s not going to pursue any other vacancy. He’s excited about building for his fourth season, one that figures to be his most challenging as the Mountain Hawks try to rebound…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland’s Faverey already reaching new heights ** But can the junior jumper top the 6-10 he cleared this week? ** Boys Track and Field
The first week of April is far from when you’d expect track and field athletes to be peaking. But Parkland junior Tyrone Faverey may have done just that in the high jump. The hope is that he’ll continue to improve, but it may be tough to surpass the 6 feet, 10 inches he posted…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hawks reflect on positive season, not negative finish ** They’re proud of getting to the NIT final after a 3-6 start. ** College Basketball
John Bryant stood by his cubicle in the locker room of Madison Square Garden Thursday night, reeling off a list of great memories — and not disappointing finishes — to his last two seasons. He talked about his pride in wearing the Saint Joseph’s uniform the last four seasons,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hawks fall in last second ** South Carolina wins NIT title with 60-57 victory over Saint Joe’s.
The scrapping, clawing fight finally ended with Saint Joseph’s getting caught with a haymaker Tuesday night. Great champions have fallen before at Madison Square Garden. Saint Joe’s did not end as a champ, but coach Phil Martelli believes his team played like one until the final…
· Andre D. Williams
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Koeffer has best seat in the Garden ** CCHS grad is in his 2nd year as a walk-on with Saint Joe’s basketball team. Last year, they went to the Elite Eight; this year to the NIT championship game.
Andrew Koeffer sat at the far end of the Saint Joseph’s bench Tuesday night, extremely proud to be wearing his crimson and gray uniform at Madison Square Garden. He only broke a sweat in warm-ups because he did not play in the Hawks’ National Invitation Tournament semifinal game…
· Andre D. Williams
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Jones, Hawks soar to finals ** A stellar defensive effort helps put Saint Joseph’s in position to win first NIT title. ** National Invitational Tournament
Dwayne Jones was everywhere inside the lane that Saint Joseph’s needed him to be Tuesday night against Memphis at Madison Square Garden. He was on the boards, ripping down rebounds. He was rushing to the left and right side of the lane, blocking and altering shots. Jones was…
· Andre D. Williams
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Carroll knows his place ** The senior leader of the Saint Joe’s Hawks would rather shoot than dunk.
Madison Square Garden could provide the stage for Saint Joseph’s senior guard Pat Carroll to do something Hawks junior point guard Dwayne Lee has not seen too often the last three years. And that’s a Pat Carroll dunk. “You know what? I might have seen him dunk 10 times since…
· Andre D. Williams
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Carroll leads Hawks to win in home finale ** Senior sharpshooter comes up big in 68-60 win over Holy Cross.
For the final time in his Saint Joseph’s career, senior guard Pat Carroll glistened as the student body he’s thrilled so much with his shooting began to chant, “The Hawks will never die.” Just eight seconds remained when Carroll exited the game, a hard-fought National Invitation…
· Andre D. Williams
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Saint Joe’s, Holy Cross meet for first time in 27 years ** The Hawks, who host tonight’s second-round NIT game, are tough at home, but the Patriot League’s Crusaders play well on the road.
Saint Joseph’s freshman guard Abdulai Jalloh did not pretend on Saturday night that he knows anything about Holy Cross, or any other Patriot League team. Actually, Jalloh doesn’t know much about any team he hasn’t seen on television, or competed against in the Big 5 or Atlantic…
· Andre D. Williams
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Saint Joe’s continues to play, downing Buffalo 55-50 in NIT
The stage is not as big as the one Saint Joseph’s coach Phil Martelli and his players danced on last March. But it does not matter that the Hawks are in the National Invitation Tournament as opposed to competing in the NCAAs and it will not matter as long as they keep dancing…
· Andre D. Williams
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20 years later, Wildcats are closer ** Villanova shocked Georgetown with a perfect performance. Today, those same players are like family.
Members of Villanova’s 1985 national championship team developed a bond that extended way beyond the court. That’s because they were more than just teammates. “It was like a family, a brotherhood, a fraternity, whatever you want to call it,” said Chuck Everson, a reserve center…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Nova and Adamshick shut out of tourney ** Despite going 19-11 with wins over BC and Notre Dame, the Wildcats will instead be NIT bound.
Jackie Adamshick sat silently, her hands clutched as she nervously watched the NCAA women’s selection show on ESPN Sunday night at the Pavilion. Adamshick, a redshirt sophomore from Central Catholic High, did not expect to be disappointed, not with Villanova having posted a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Brennan will be going out in style ** Phillipsburg native is retiring and will end his career in NCAA tourney.
Tom Brennan clipped the nets Saturday one final time at Patrick Gymnasium in Burlington, Vermont. Now he’s going dancing one final time in the NCAA Tournament. Brennan, a Phillipsburg native, will not coach past this season, his 23rd overall and 19th at Vermont, an America East…
· Andre D. Williams
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Villanova ready to dance for 1st time since ’99 ** Wildcats enter tourney as a fifth seed and will face New Mexico.
Villanova’s players and coaches sat anxiously in front of a big screen television in the Connelly Center Sunday night on the Main Line campus waiting to see who their next opponent will be, where they will play and when they will play. A portion of “Nova Nation” was stationed in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Mistakes catch up with Wildcats ** Villanova’s failure to grab a late rebound is costly in loss to West Virginia.
Overtime was so close Friday night. But Villanova did two things it had not done well all game — box out under the boards and grab a rebound. So the Wildcats ended up getting their hearts broken with two-tenths of a second remaining against West Virginia in the Big East…
· Andre D. Williams
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Heartbroken Hawks heartened by next year’s hopes ** Solid season ended sourly, but Lehigh appers to be on track ** Lehigh Women
The tears have dried and another season of blown chances has faded away for the Lehigh women’s basketball team. For the first time ever, the Mountain Hawks had both the Patriot League player of the year — Jessica DePalo — and the coach of the year — Sue Troyan. But the end of…
· Andre D. Williams
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Roeder ready to take the reins of Freedom football program ** Ex-Becahi assistant succeeds Jim Morgans as mentor of Patriots.
Freedom High officially has a new football coach and athletic director Fred Harris hopes he doesn’t eventually follow in the footsteps of the last two Patriots head coaches. But Jason Roeder, who was formally introduced as the coach to the players and media on Tuesday, doesn’t…
· Andre D. Williams
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Colgate upsets Lehigh ** Mountain Hawks squander a 12-point lead, fall 65-60.
Lehigh senior Jessica DePalo displayed the same grace when she spoke as she had when she played Saturday afternoon. But she did it with tears in her eyes instead of a smile of her face. Her season-high 30 points had gone for naught because Lehigh squandered a 12-point lead with…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh just gets by Bucknell ** DePalo’s buzzer-beating follow gives the Mountain Hawks a 54-52 win over the Bison. ** Patriot League Women’s Basketball Tournament
Winning in the playoffs often comes down to who handles the pressure the best, and who bumps and grinds the hardest. That’s what Lehigh senior Jessica DePalo, the Patriot League’s player of the year, did until only one second remained in the tournament quarterfinals against…
· Andre D. Williams
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Troyan and DePalo honored ** Lehigh coach is named the Patriot League’s best; the senior is Lehigh’s first-ever player of the year.
Lehigh coach Sue Troyan has finally earned the Patriot League Coach of the Year award that her star senior Jessica DePalo thought Troyan deserved four years ago. DePalo’s league-best 18.0 points per game, to go with her 5.4 rebounds and 47.9 percent field-goal shooting and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Anything can happen in the Patriot League, but …
This time of the college basketball season, opinions on teams can vary from week-to-week, depending on how those teams play. Good teams don’t falter, suspect ones do. Last week, I touted Lafayette for having won two straight games. Then the Leopards got wiped out by a 71-33…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lafayette holds off Lehigh in regular-season finale ** Loss hurts Hawks, who enter the league tourney as the No. 4 seed.
Lehigh did not die easy. And Lafayette refused to die on its own court. The Leopards had an 11-point lead with 1:48 remaining, which dwindled down to one, before settling for an 81-76 victory Saturday afternoon at Kirby Sports Center. Lafayette had lost its previous game by 19…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lafayette playing like a team ready to make a run
Teams that make postseason runs in March usually start to play harder and smarter and win more convincingly at this time of the season. Lafayette has done that in its last two Patriot League games. Teams that have short runs in March usually do what Lehigh has done over its last…
· Andre D. Williams
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Knee injury ends Hinds’ career ** The CCHS grad tears ligaments with five games left in season.
Drexel senior Danny Hinds experienced the worst drive to the basket of his life Monday night. He jump-stopped and was going up for a layup when his left knee buckled. Tears quickly welled in his eyes as he dropped to the floor during the second half of a Colonial Athletic…
· Andre D. Williams
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Saint Joseph’s quietly making bid for “Big Dance’
Saint Joseph’s is making another run at the NCAA Tournament. And the Hawks don’t even control Philadelphia. But that’s the beauty of college basketball because rankings and computers do not determine a team’s fate. Saint Joe’s (12-9) can advance to the “Big Dance” for the third…
· Andre D. Williams
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Four Liberty seniors commit to colleges ** Van Ackeren, Korpics, Severn and Sterner each receive scholarships.
With pens in hand and wearing broad smiles, four Liberty High football players signed letters of intent with Division I-AA and Division II schools Thursday afternoon in a conference room adjacent to Liberty’s main office. Brendan Van Ackeren, who made big plays on both sides of…
· Andre D. Williams
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Flannery happy to be back on Bucknell bench
Bucknell coach Pat Flannery did not allow his spirits to be dampened after losing to Lehigh 57-54 on a Joe Knight 3-pointer at the buzzer Sunday at Stabler Arena. Flannery had missed three games because of an undisclosed medical condition. He hated being out, hated not having to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Phillipsburg native Brennan loving life in Vermont ** The likeable coach will be retiring at season’s end after winning over 300 games.
Phillipsburg native Tom Brennan has reached a point in life where he’d rather spend his summers sailing on Lake Champlain in Vermont than recruiting players across the country for his Catamounts basketball program. Brennan, 55, announced his retirement as Vermont’s head coach on…
· Andre D. Williams
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Wildcats healthy, happy and ranked ** No. 24 Villanova, ranked for the first time in eight years, takes on UConn.
Two starters on Villanova’s men’s basketball team are almost fully healed as the Wildcats prepare to play their first game as a nationally-ranked team since the 1996-97 season. Junior center Jason Fraser got the cast off his fractured right hand seven days ago and played 13…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hinds is playing his best ball while on the mend
Drexel University senior Danny Hinds is not about to let a fractured left wrist keep him out of the Dragons’ starting lineup. He’s worked too hard to get into it, so he’s not about to let discomfort in his non-shooting hand spoil his last season. Besides, Drexel coach Bruiser…
· Andre D. Williams
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Villanova was not intimidated playing No. 2 Kansas
Villanova’s non-league schedule had been nothing to boast about, except for games against Big 5 rivals Temple and Pennsylvania. But Saturday, the Wildcats took a break from from the Big East to play second-ranked Kansas at the Wachovia Center. There wasn’t supposed to be…
· Andre D. Williams
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Adamshick looking for consistency ** There’ve been flashes for the soph out of CCHS, just not enough of them.
There are some games in which Villanova guard Jackie Adamshick is all-world — just like she was in high school when she led Central Catholic to back-to-back PIAA Class 3A titles in 2001 and 2002. Her 25-point performance in leading Villanova to a 59-54 upset of then-No. 4 Notre…
· Andre D. Williams
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Knight having quite a few good days for Lehigh
Lehigh’s Patriot League opponents are not having many good nights trying to contain Mountain Hawks junior guard Joe Knight. The 6-1 transfer from High Point University has turned into a clutch late-game performer, hitting the game-winning shot with 25.4 seconds left in a 56-53…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hoyas turn table in 66-64 victory ** Georgetown beats ‘Nova by same 66-64 score 20 years later at the buzzer.
Will Sheridan’s game-tying dunk with 2.4 seconds left was followed by Villanova’s biggest defensive lapse of the season Saturday afternoon at The Pavilion. The Wildcats blinked. That’s all it took for Georgetown’s Darrel Owens to race down court, pull in a baseball-like pass…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh “D’ dumps Lafayette ** Suffocating second-half defense allows Hawks to escape with a 63-55 win.
Neither Lehigh nor Lafayette won style points on offense, but they might have impressed a boxing promoter with the way they battled in their first Patriot League meeting of the season Wednesday night in Stabler Arena. In one fierce second-half flurry, Lehigh’s Nick Monserez and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lange makes sure Navy doesn’t have sinking feeling
The excitement is slowly returning to Navy basketball. Though the Midshipmen’s 4-9 start has included a 75-69 loss to Division III Gettysburg on Dec. 18 in Annapolis, first-year coach Billy Lange is not discouraged. A stale offense was the main reason the Midshipmen compiled a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lafayette goes marching into Atlanta
Lafayette College has a slim chance of pulling off this college basketball season’s biggest upset Tuesday night in a non-league game against No. 9 Georgia Tech in Atlanta. But the Leopards (3-6) may not get too blown out of Alexander Memorial Coliseum, which is located on the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Palisades’ Weaver an all-state selection
Opposing defensive linemen might have been more successful blocking Keith Weaver, Palisades’ massive 6-4, 320-pound senior lineman, if they had done what Pirates coach Brian Gilbert used to do in practice. “What we would do was put two guys over him and just treat them as one,”…
· Andre D. Williams
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Three players from Pius X named all-state ** PIAA Class A All-State Football Selection
Pius X wide receiver Quintin Lopez likes to imitate his NFL idol, Randy Moss. The senior enjoyed nothing better than frustrating defensive backs, who were charged with trying to prevent him from making a big play. He would catch passes over their outstretched arms and use his…
· Andre D. Williams
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Area trio named 3A first-team all-state ** David Horton, Matt Kushner and Aaron Smith honored by AP.
Central Catholic senior David Horton probably has Vikings coach Donnie Roberts high on his Christmas list. Roberts’ decision to move Horton from running back to wide receiver as a junior has panned out wonderfully. Horton’s 51-catch, 617-yard season with five touchdowns was…
· Andre D. Williams
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Barbosa can tell Lafayette all about Georgia Tech
Lafayette will experience on Dec. 28 what former Allen High star Ray Barbosa has already experienced when the James Madison sophomore and his teammates played then-No. 3 Georgia Tech Dec. 15 in Atlanta. Lafayette coach Fran O’Hanlon is in no rush to find out. “They are pretty…
· Andre D. Williams
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Four from area are first-team All-State ** PIAA Class 4A All-State Football Selections
Pennridge High senior tailback Ryan Greiser, The Morning Call’s player of the year, received an expected honor but at an unexpected position Saturday. And Parkland’s 6-4, 310-pound, two-way standout lineman Morgan Thomas, finally got his due. Greiser and Thomas were selected to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton ends up top dog ** The Red Rovers tore up opponents en route to a memorable season. ** Morning Call Football Team of the Year
The opponents hit hard. Easton just hit harder. The opponents were often bigger. Easton never buckled. For 13 straight games, Easton just won, mostly with smashmouth offense and punishing defense, and by taking advantage of some turnover opportunities in the playoffs during…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland handcuffs Easton ** Trojans’ suffocating defense is the key to a 43-28 LVC victory.
Parkland High may not shoot many opponents out of the gymnasium and will not be bigger in the paint in most of its game. So what the Trojans proved in a 43-28 Lehigh Valley Conference victory over Easton Tuesday night in the 25th Street Gymnasium is that they can win with…
· Andre D. Williams
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Victory eludes Easton in East final ** After a postseason of clawing, Rovers fal to Neshaminy, 21-14.
Easton clawed and scrapped and kept Rover Nation’s hope alive until the final gun. Even then, Red Rover players pleaded with the officials for just one more play, hoping that they would call a pass-interference penalty. But they didn’t, and Easton’s bid for a school-record 14th…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton’s “D’ faces another big challenge ** But the Red Rovers have risen to the occasion all season, despite being undersized. ** PIAA Class 4A Eastern Final
Easton’s defense has been clearly undersized against 11 of 13 opponents, but has allowed an average of only seven points per game. Because the Red Rovers’ fearsome foursome of Kevin Danko (5-10, 190), John Suozzo (6-0, 185), Michael Anderson (5-5, 200) and Jarrid Myers (5-10,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton will follow Goulbourne’s lead ** Running back likely to set the tone against Neshaminy tonight. ** PIAA Eastern Final
Easton senior tailback Ovid Goulbourne broke quickly to the outside and raced 34 yards down the sideline. Along the way, last Saturday, he stiff-armed a couple George Washington defenders. It was a vintage run, his longest of that PIAA Class 4A quarterfinal game in Philadelphia.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Neshaminy is more than just “Georgie’s’ team ** Redskins have Coleman and a few other D-I prospects on the squad.
Get ready, Easton. Here comes speed, precision and high-powered offense. Here comes Neshaminy High (12-1), a 51-34 destroyer of 2003 PIAA Class 4A champion North Penn in the District One final last week. Here comes a Redskins team that’s driven, by any means possible, to win the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Red Rovers show no signs of slowing Tired Easton still beats George Washington 15-10 in PIAA playoff.
Easton played its third game in eight days, second in just three days, but the Red Rovers sure did not play like a fatigued team Saturday night. The Red Rovers were just as tenacious, hard-hitting, and efficient on offense when they absolutely had to be in persevering 15-10 over…
· Andre D. Williams
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Rovers’ opponent wants respect — for itself, Philly ** GW hasn’t been taken as seriously as its 12-0 record might warrant.
PIAA playoff rookie George Washington can’t wait to play Easton in the Class 4A Eastern semifinals at 7 tonight at Northeast High’s Charles Martin Stadium in Philadelphia. But the Eagles (12-0) aren’t talking smack because they’re just happy to be in the chase for what would be…
· Andre D. Williams
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2004: Easton flattens Phillipsburg, 31-0
Thanksgiving is for feasting. The big gifts aren’t supposed to come until Christmas. But opportunistic Easton collected early against mistake-prone Phillipsburg in the 98th Turkey Day Bowl before a sold out crowd Thursday at Lafayette College’s Fisher Field. And Easton defensive…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton flattens Phillipsburg, 31-0 ** Unbeaten Rovers pounce on mistakes, give P’burg its first loss.
Thanksgiving is for feasting. The big gifts aren’t supposed to come until Christmas. But opportunistic Easton collected early against mistake-prone Phillipsburg in the 98th Turkey Day Bowl before a sold out crowd Thursday at Lafayette College’s Fisher Field. And Easton defensive…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton-Phillipsburg: A state of mind ** Both enter the game undefeated and ranked among the best teams in their respective states.
The 98th Thanksgiving Day meeting between Easton and Phillipsburg is not just a game for bragging rights. It’s for historic achievement since both teams will enter Lafayette College’s Fisher Field Thursday morning undefeated for the first time since 1958: Easton at 11-0,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Red Rovers ready to take on another double dip ** Easton plays P’burg on Thanksgiving, then off to Philly two days later.
Easton High is willing and able to play rival Phillipsburg on Thursday and a PIAA Class 4A Eastern semifinal two days later. And the Red Rovers don’t care who thinks they’re physically incapable. Last year has nothing to do with now. Just bring on the competition. Easton’s…
· Andre D. Williams
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Red Rovers create own breaks, beat Liberty ** Blocked punt, four other turnovers in final 14 minutes lead to 14-7 win.
Easton’s defense bailed out its offense with a takeaway, life-sucking performance over the final 14 minutes, leaving Liberty devastated at the final whistle in the PIAA Class 4A sub-regional championship Friday night at Cottingham Stadium. In that time frame, Red Rovers…
· Andre D. Williams
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Having lost no one, Mules are looking to make big gains ** Local College Basketball Previews ** Muhlenberg Men
The Muhlenberg College men’s basketball team has felt lost for a couple years. Losing seasons can cause disarray. The Mules had made the Centennial Conference tournament 12 straight years, but have now missed it two straight seasons. Last season, they went 8-17, the first time…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hurricanes mirror Moncman’s demeanor ** Liberty’s coach has instilled his tough style into his players, setting up the sub-regional title game. ** Liberty Hurricanes vs. Easton Red Rovers – 7 Tonight – Cottingham Stadium, Easton
Liberty has yet to hit the panic button in a game this season. There’s that one loss — 21-7 to Easton — but the Hurricanes have demonstrated mettle and perseverance in many tough games, including last week’s dramatic 28-23 win over Wyoming Valley West that set up a rematch with…
· Andre D. Williams
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Mules looking to blend defense into their high-octane offense ** Local College Basketball Previews ** Muhlenberg Women
The Muhlenberg College women’s team probably won’t come close to any 30-second shot-clock violations. The Mules will push the ball upcourt and shoot from any distance, and won’t worry about being pulled from the game if they miss. They may make their opponents dizzy trying to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton doesn’t want repeat of 2001 finale ** The Red Rovers went into that game unbeaten, as they are now, and lost to Bethlehem Catholic. ** Liberty Hurricanes vs. Easton Red Rovers – 7 Tonight – Cottingham Stadium, Easton
Easton coach Steve Shiffert would rather forget about the 2001 District 11 Championship Game, and hope that his players don’t dwell on the memory too much, either. It’s not easy because Easton carried a 10-0 record into the 4A title game against Bethlehem Catholic and got routed…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh looks for another banner season ** Solid nucleus returns from team that earned NCAA tourney berth ** Lehigh Basketball
Winning has created such enthusiasm at Lehigh that sophomore guard Kyle Neptune inadvertently slipped into a dream world when discussing this season’s goals. “We are just excited to start the season, try and repeat [as Patriot League Tournament champs] and go to the national…
· Andre D. Williams
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Villanova wants to become the team to beat in the Big 5 ** The Wildcats also want to make some noise in the Big East ** College Basketball
Villanova University has the best three-guard rotation in the Big 5 in juniors Allan Ray, Randy Foye and sophomore Mike Nardi. And the Wildcats also have the confidence that they will win the city title for the first time since 2001. The ‘Cats also want to contend for the Big…
· Andre D. Williams
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Area programs still feeling the Stem effect
An area high school football coach, who showed little mercy when it came to an opponent, was just a fan Saturday afternoon watching the District 11 Class 4A subregional playoff game between Easton and Emmaus at Cottingham Stadium. But former Bethlehem Catholic High coach Bob…
· Andre D. Williams
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Persa’s TD run helps Liberty win ** The sophomore QB scores from 52 yards out in a 28-23 playoff win.
Liberty’s heart had appeared snatched out after a 7-yard punt had resulted in Wyoming Valley West getting field position at the 22, and scoring with relative ease to take command of a see-saw PIAA Class 4A sub-regional semifinal Saturday night. Then, Liberty’s “Kid Cool”…
· Andre D. Williams
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Melosky will not be rehired ** The coach who won the PIAA 4A title in 2002, is out at Parkland.
The Parkland High football team will look to rebound from a disappointing 3-7 season without the coach who, two years ago, led it to the PIAA Class 4A championship. The Parkland High School administration announced in a press release Friday that Rob Melosky will not be retained…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty gets up early on Freedom in victory
Liberty junior Andrew Lee did not need an alarm clock to wake him up Saturday morning. Neither did many of his teammates. That’s because the Hurricanes were anxious to play Saturday’s game with Freedom, in which a win would mean the Christmas City championship and berth in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Perfect Easton rolls to LVC title ** Red Rovers overpower Becahi 28-7 to make it two straight league championships.
Easton would prefer to have its first-round playoff opponent — either Liberty, Emmaus or District 2’s Delaware Valley — to think that it still has room for improvement. As if 9-0 doesn’t speak volumes. As if winning by an average score of 31-9 the last three weeks doesn’t say…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton’s in; Liberty, Emmaus are knocking on the door ** Playoffs beckon heading into the final weekend of LVC action. ** LVC Football
Easton is 8-0 and has already clinched the No. 1 spot in the PIAA Class 4A sub-regional playoffs, but the Red Rovers still have as much pressure on them as Emmaus and Liberty have entering the Lehigh Valley Conference’s final weekend. Liberty (8-1, 6-1) and Emmaus (8-1, 6-1)…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty must try to look ahead, not back to loss
After the big showdown against Easton that turned into the big letdown, none of the Liberty players seemed in a rush to leave the chewed-up field at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium Friday night. Not even to attend any Halloween parties or catch a late movie. Eventually,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton’s Holley brings daggers for Liberty ** The freshman throws Rovers’ first TD pass, sets up their second.
Easton freshman Jarred Holley was a tone-setter, a game-breaker and, for Liberty, a heartbreaker Friday night. In fact, he was all those things and more in just the first four minutes of play at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. After his big game, which included a 69-yard…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty, Easton ready to battle for undefeated mark ** Both teams tuned up for tonight’s clash with big wins last week.
Liberty and Easton tuned up for the “Battle of the Unbeatens” by smashing their opponents last Friday night. Liberty beat Nazareth 22-0 and Easton rolled over Northampton 45-14. Liberty (8-0, 6-0) did not play its best game, but still proved merciless, holding Nazareth to just…
· Andre D. Williams
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Undefeated, unyielding Easton is tops
Easton is the top Class 4A team in the Lehigh Valley Conference and in District 11 until proven otherwise. Seven teams have tried. Seven have failed. Now Liberty (8-0) will try to topple Easton (7-0) when the teams meet at 7 p.m. Friday at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton cruises past K-Kids ** The Red Rovers score early and often in a 45-14 rout.
Easton only had one smashmouth drive. Most other scoring drives were easy. In fact, just about everything was easy as the Red Rovers turned Northampton’s Homecoming Friday into a disaster. “I don’t have anything to do with that,” Northampton coach Teko Johnson said when asked…
· Andre D. Williams
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Playoff spots tough to come by — just ask Emmaus ** With the inclusion of two other districts, a team has to be almost perfect to make it.
Emmaus could finish the season 9-1 and not make the PIAA Class 4A sub-regional playoffs. It’s not a joke. It’s just the harsh reality of the new playoff system, which has combined Districts 11, 2 and 4. Just four teams will qualify for the playoffs. Currently, Easton (6-0),…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hawks don’t mind being No. 2 in preseason ** Defending tourney champs are picked to finish behind Bucknell.
Defending Patriot League tournament champion Lehigh isn’t worried about preseason predictions. They’ve been wrong the last two seasons. So Lehigh coach Billy Taylor doesn’t consider it a snub that the Mountain Hawks have been picked by the league’s coaches and sports information…
· Andre D. Williams
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It’s “Midnight Madness’ for Lehigh
The students are now mad about basketball at Lehigh. Really mad. Tonight, they plan to prove it with Lehigh’s first-ever “Midnight Madness” at Grace Hall. ESPN’s Trey Wingo will be on hand to host the event, which is free to the public. Service Electric TV2 will televise the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Going undefeated in the LVC won’t be easy ** Easton and Liberty have a shot but play tough opponents tonight. ** LVC Football
Easton and Liberty are still undefeated in the Lehigh Valley Conference, but will probably have to battle hard tonight to stay that way. And again next week. Then, on Oct. 29, Easton (5-0) and Liberty (6-0) will meet each other at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium, but will…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty overcomes Becahi ** The Hurricanes stay undefeated by rallying from 10 points down.
There was nothing flat about the way Liberty played rival Bethlehem Catholic in the second half of a Lehigh Valley Conference game Saturday night. It was more like a dogfight. Runs were hard. Hits were harder. But that was to be expected. After all, the schools are separated by…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty overcomes Becahi ** The Hurricanes stay undefeated by rallying from 10 points down.
There was nothing flat about the way Liberty played rival Bethlehem Catholic in the second half of a Lehigh Valley Conference game Saturday night. It was more like a dogfight. Runs were hard. Hits were harder. But that was to be expected. After all, the schools are separated by…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty takes another big step forward
No more proof is needed. Liberty is for real. The Hurricanes were solid, even merciless at times in a 42-14 pummeling of Central Catholic Friday night at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. The ‘Canes turned two first-half fumble recoveries into touchdowns and built a 28-0…
· Andre D. Williams
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Emmaus, Whitehall face stout tests tonight in LVC ** LVC FOOTBALL
Emmaus and Whitehall are no longer being overlooked by other Lehigh Valley Conference teams. “That’s too bad,” said Emmaus coach Bottiglieri. “We need them to overlook us a little bit.” Neither Emmaus (3-1, 1-1 LVC) nor Whitehall (3-1, 2-0) will get breaks tonight, next week or…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty’s Moncman silencing critics
Lehigh Valley Conference teams have to be on their own Hurricane watch, but it has nothing to do with high winds and heavy rains. “Watch out for Liberty,” Easton coach Steve Shiffert said before Liberty went to Parkland Stadium Friday night and throttled the Trojans defensively…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton going for win No.700 (but who’s counting?) ** Easton, that’s who. So the fact that some disagree changes little. ** LVC Football
Easton’s highly-touted band figures to rock in the stands as the Red Rovers football team goes after the 700th win in school history against Dieruff at 7 tonight at J. Birney Crum Stadium. It’s big. Maybe, the biggest storyline in the LVC in Week 3, but in an unusual twist, it…
· Andre D. Williams
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Some early-season high-pressure games are on tap ** Becahi is among the teams desperately in need of a win.
Potential thrillers lie in wait as Lehigh Valley Conference play opens tonight. Who will be surprise winners? Well, the LVC is so balanced that most games tonight and Saturday could be decided late. Who’s feeling the pressure? It’s heaviest for Bethlehem Catholic (0-2), Allen…
· Andre D. Williams
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All appears well with the area’s top dogs
In the review of the second week of high school football games, much was observed. The main observation is that all seems well at Parkland, Phillipsburg, Pennridge and Northern Lehigh. Those teams are considered the area’s top heavyweights along with Easton, which was idle. Each…
· Andre D. Williams
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Catholic schools to face stern tests this weekend ** Becahi takes on North Penn; Central faces Mount Carmel.
North Penn, the defending PIAA Class 4A champion, and Mount Carmel, a Class 2A powerhouse with five PIAA titles since 1994, will both be playing in the Lehigh Valley Saturday night. Whether that’s good news or bad for the Lehigh Valley Conference teams they are playing remains…
· Andre D. Williams
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Martin making tracks ** He’s the first African-American to win an IHRA race and is trying to encourage others to follow him.
Harold Martin no longer feels as though he and his dad, Huston, are the “Odd Couple” when attending drag racing tracks. A retired General Motors engineer, Harold Martin is creating inroads to a place that once would have seemed unlikely for an African-American driver in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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How about the Bethlehem Steelers?
Diehard Lehigh Valley sports fans might have had discussions over coffee or tea Saturday morning about many of the high school football teams that played Friday night. Like Parkland, which blew a 21-point fourth-quarter lead in losing to Cumberland Valley 41-38 in overtime. Like…
· Andre D. Williams
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There will be no easy route to playoffs ** PIAA has made it more difficult for teams with competitive schedules.
Must-win games will begin the second week of the season for Lehigh Valley Conference teams after they lose their season-openers. That’s because of the PIAA’s new sub-regional playoff format that has combined District 11 with District 2 and District 4 teams in a chase to secure…
· Andre D. Williams
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Red Rovers get down to business ** Meanwhile, Liberty looks to start building on last year’s success.
Nobody threw up or fainted at Easton High. Nobody took lunch break and decided not to return for the afternoon practice. Most of the 108 players on the practice field were in good shape and brought good attitudes as far as coach Steve Shiffert was concerned as the high school…
· Andre D. Williams
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G&S; Fastening beats Ackey’s, rain to win Tournament of Champions ** The Spadt brothers combine for 16 points in the 49-45 victory. ** Summer Basketball
Brothers Dave and Doug Spadt, former Emmaus High basketball standouts, shared the same concerns as clouds darkened, light rain fell and leaves floated from trees and onto the Catasauqua Playground court Thursday. The Spadt brothers were playing for G&S; Fastening against Ackey’s…
· Andre D. Williams
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Birches felled by Boyertown ** Bears win in a rout. Lower Macungie’s season also ends. ** Legion Region 2
Please, not another inning. Nobody from Birches yelled that out, but shortstop Brendon O’Connor sure thought it a few times against Boyertown in the American Legion Region 2 Tournament semifinals Friday night at Hackett’s Park in Easton. He probably wasn’t alone. After all,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Big 33 all-stars battle tonight ** Speed, strong arms and power fill the rosters for the Pa. vs. Ohio contest.
All-stars from Pennsylvania and Ohio will finally get to pop, juke and, in all likelihood, trash talk each other in the 47th Big 33 Football Classic tonight at Hersheypark Stadium. As usual, the cast on both sides of the field features players headed to Penn State and Ohio…
· Andre D. Williams
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Doing the dues ** Eugene Clay is having the time of his life at the Big 33 — well, except for the practices.
At the top of the not-so-fun list for Allen High’s Eugene Clay, preparing this week for Big 33 Game, is practice. His fun list is a lot longer, including a visit to the Adventure Sports amusement park with his host family, feasting and sharing laughs with teammates — experiences…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Dawgs ride to the title leads to impromptu ride through region
Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs vice president Sam Unera held the USBL Championship trophy high in the air and let the summer breeze smack up against it as he rode down the busiest streets from South Whitehall Township to Easton in a Chrysler PT Cruiser convertible Tuesday evening. A…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Dawgs get title, want more fans ** The Lehigh Valley team hopes its second USBL crown will sell tickets.
The Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs have the United States Basketball League title again. Now they are in search of bandwagon jumpers in the Lehigh Valley. But they don’t plan on waiting until next season to find them. On Monday, less than 24 hours after beating the Brooklyn Kings for…
· Andre D. Williams
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ValleyDawgs win USBL championship ** Tourney MVP and newlywed Fleming leads team to 2nd title.
The Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs don’t care who, but they want one of their players to get married during the season next year. The tying of vows seems to be the good luck charm the ‘Dawgs need to win a USBL title. Thank you, Marcus Fleming. That was the sentiment Pennsylvania coach…
· Andre D. Williams
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More than just the clothes ** Dawkins, the ex-fun-loving dunk machine, needs NBA people to take him seriously.
If he were ever hired as an NBA assistant or head coach, Darryl Dawkins would probably wear a different suit for every home game. Many of them would be colorful. “He has 90 suits,” his wife Janice said. “The best way to describe his closet is Skittles, like a big bag of…
· Andre D. Williams
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Rice ready to run one last time ** The Becahi tailback leads his team into the McDonald’s Classic.
Bethlehem Catholic tailback Fred Rice never cared about being chased down by faster defensive backs or linebackers, because they still had to take him down once they caught up to him. He also never worried much about who was in front of him, because he’s nicknamed “Boomer” for a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Signing of Hancock could be missing link
The “missing link” has finally joined the Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs. That’s what ‘Dawgs coach Darryl Dawkins calls Darrin Hancock, a 6-7 forward who played one season at Kansas and has 133 NBA games on his resume. Also on his bio is the USBL title he won last year with Dodge…
· Andre D. Williams
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Trojans’ Stern rises in stature ** The deceptive 5-8 sprinter had a great senior year. ** TRACK & FIELD ATHLETES OF THE YEAR
So many times during his high school career, Parkland senior Steve Stern sensed that he was being stared down by opposing sprinters. He was probably right. At just 5-8 and without any bulging muscles, Stern just didn’t care what other sprinters thought because he was confident…
· Andre D. Williams
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Allen’s Scott learning to become a “mudder’ ** The Jamaican native, a sprinter, is getting used to poor conditions.
Unseasonably cool temperatures and persistent rain were not strong enough elements to force Allen sophomore Rushane Scott to change his mind about competing in a local Junior Olympic track and field meet Saturday at J. Birney Crum Stadium. A year ago, Scott wasn’t so…
· Andre D. Williams
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Luff, Ryan, Stern run to medals at states ** Miller 2nd in discus; Carter 3rd in 200; a thrid bronze for Vymazal.
Parkland High senior Steve Stern pictured the place on his stacked bedroom wall where he could put his silver medal. Emmaus junior Sam Luff, also a silver medal winner, said he was going to hang his medal on a wall, too. Easton senior Rich Ryan said he was going to give his…
· Andre D. Williams
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Carelli “settles’ for state silver ** The Parkland soph finishes second in the boys’ 3A triple jump.
This time, the color of the medal didn’t suit Parkland sophomore John Carelli’s taste. That’s because Carelli had gotten spoiled after winning six gold medals over the previous two weeks in the Lehigh Valley Conference and District 11 Class 3A Championships. Otherwise, Carelli…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Dawgs go to Wells, get themselves a win ** ValleyDawgs
The Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs have been known for shuffling the roster like a deck of cards in the United States Basketball League. They’ve done that this spring, but appear to be finally done. “I think we have enough talent,” team owner John Walson said. The ‘Dawgs actually may…
· Andre D. Williams
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Eggleston races, Welsh leaps to district gold ** Speedy Eggleston helps make Becahi 3,200 relay a winner.
No more 800-meter runs for Bethlehem Catholic senior Jules Eggleston. Once was enough, so he hoped. “After I run one lap, my body shuts down,” Eggleston joked. “I’m not ready for two laps.” But it may be hard for Bethlehem Catholic coach Gary Mohylsky to grant Eggleston his…
· Andre D. Williams
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Pierre-Louise returns, helps lift ‘Dawgs ** Former Pennsylvania standout comes up big down the stretch.
Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs center Frantz Pierre-Louise did not grow up in the Lehigh Valley, did not attend college here, and does not currently live here. But Bethlehem will forever be a special city to him. “This is where I won my championship,” Pierre-Louise said Saturday,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Patience, knowledge are tools needed at seeding meetings
Easton High track and field coach Frank Messa looked down at a piece of paper crammed with times, distances, and lots of names Thursday night and uttered the words a college student would say this time of year. “I feel like I’m studying for a math exam,” Messa said. He wasn’t…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Dawgs coach Dawkins confronts referee about foul language ** USBL
Darryl Dawkins played 14 years in the NBA and never recalled an official puffing out his chest and barking during a heated dispute, “I ain’t scared of you.” No NBA player ever approached Dawkins in that manner. “No, not like that,” said Dawkins, who has been coach of the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Sutjak would rather beat opponents than records
Blowing out the field and breaking school records would not have been as special to Northern Lehigh senior Bob Sutjak had his team not won the meets. The success of the team means more to Sutjak than his personal triumphs. Lately, he’s been able to enjoy both. Last Thursday in a…
· Andre D. Williams
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New ‘Dawg Meeking seeking glory ** ValleyDawgs
Antonio Meeking looked like an NFL defensive lineman visiting the Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs’ practice Tuesday at Lehigh Carbon Community College. But team vice president and general manager Sam Unera painted a more intimidating picture of the 6-8, 265-pound Meeking, who has…
· Andre D. Williams
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Spartan boys win 1,600 relay heat ** Justin Babich makes up distance in the third leg after a slow team start.
A 1,600-meter relay race that appeared dim after one lap turned into a success story for the Southern Lehigh boys Saturday at the Penn Relays at Franklin Field. That’s because junior Mike Snowden rallied the Spartans from near last place into third with a solid second leg.…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Dawgs to bark at Liberty ** The USBL team hopes play at Memorial Gym draws a walk-up crowd.
The great Wilt Chamberlain and the famous Harlem Globetrotters once dazzled crowds at Liberty High’s Memorial Gymnasium. Former Philadelphia 76ers center Darryl Dawkins hopes to do the same today, but he’ll have to rely on his Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs players. The ‘Dawgs will…
· Andre D. Williams
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Koons anchors Central Catholic to eighth in 3,200 ** Her 2:12.8 leg helps the Vikettes beat previous best by 13.49 seconds.
Central Catholic High distance runner Frances Koons capped off two days of fantastic running in the Penn Relays Friday at Franklin Field. Koons, a senior, ran a 2:12.8 anchor-leg that helped the Vikettes place eighth in the High School Girls Championship of America 3,200-meter…
· Andre D. Williams
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Memories await area athletes at Penn Relays
Artie Owens made sure he did his offseason conditioning work when he was with the San Diego Chargers in the late 1970s and 80s, but he also made sure he scheduled his vacation time around the Penn Relays in Philadelphia. Owens had been a football and track and field star at…
· Andre D. Williams
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The final countdown begins ** Who’ll be left standing Monday? It’s spring, but it’s still “Jacket’ weather. ** 2004 NCAA Final Four ** (1) Duke vs (2) University of Connecticut, 8:47 p.m. CBS ** (2) Oklahoma State vs (3) Georgia Tech 6:07 p.m. CBS
Saint Joseph’s and Xavier of the Atlantic 10 were so close to the Final Four last Saturday, they could just about taste the sizzling fajitas of San Antonio. But both lost in regional finals, Saint Joe’s 64-62 to Oklahoma State in East Rutherford, N.J., and Xavier 66-63 to Duke…
· Andre D. Williams
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Scagliotta’s an official rooter ** The NCAA referee will focus on his colleagues working the Final Four. ** NCAA Basketball
Home-grown official Frank Scagliotta will be sitting by his television this evening in his Slate Belt home watching the Final Four games, cheering more for the three guys wearing zebra shirts than for Georgia Tech, Oklahoma State, Duke or UConn. Scagliotta, 53, officiated 1996…
· Andre D. Williams
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This Leopard gets his spotlight ** Lafayette’s Davis will show his stuff in the NCAA dunk contest.
In 1997, Lafayette College’s Winston Davis was the skinny 15-year-old high school sophomore with the crazy hops participating in the Kingdom of the Sun Slam Dunk Contest in Florida. But, that year the the older players, like one 18-year-old Jumaine Jones, had even crazier hops…
· Andre D. Williams
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The Hawks are circling ** Saint Joseph’s, which plays Oklahoma State tonight, is a win away from the Final Four.
Saint Joseph’s has the clippers in hand. Championship nets are close to being cut down. The Hawks need one more victory to win the East Rutherford Regional and advance to the Final Four in San Antonio. If the Hawks beat Oklahoma State in the regional final tonight, Philadelphia…
· Andre D. Williams
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Paul faces challenge from Nelson ** The Wake Forest frosh and Saint Joe’s senior are a lot alike.
Wake Forest guard Chris Paul has shown little sign of rookie jitters in his first NCAA Tournament. The Demon Deacons’ 6-0 freshman has averaged 25.5 points and 7.5 assists, better than expected numbers for even the Atlantic Coast Conference Rookie of the Year. But now Paul will…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty is more than Falwell U. ** The ministry-oriented school won the Big South and faces Saint Joe’s on Thursday.
At Liberty University, they talk a lot about religion, love, good sportsmanship, and all things good. That’s to be expected since Rev. Jerry Falwell is the founder and chancellor of school in Lynchburg, Va. In addition, Liberty coach Randy Dunton graduated from Baptist Bible…
· Andre D. Williams
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No. 1 Hawks look for some respect
Kentucky, Duke and Stanford were put on the NCAA Tournament board as No. 1 seeds first. Before the fourth went up, cheers erupted at Saint Joseph’s Alumni Memorial Fieldhouse Sunday. The fans, the players, and coach Phil Martelli just believed that the last No. 1 seed named…
· Andre D. Williams
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ValleyDawgs to play at Liberty
Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs management is busy doing what it does each March — watching the NCAA Tournament and getting serious about a new United States Basketball League season. The season, which begins in April, will bring a change of homes for the Dawgs. They will play each of…
· Andre D. Williams
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Temple, Philly’s last chance in A-10, falls to Richmond ** College Basketball ** Atlantic-10 Notebook
Temple had the last chance to keep the candle burning in the Atlantic 10 Tournament for Philadelphia Thursday night. But the Owls were blown out just like La Salle Wednesday and Saint Joseph’s earlier Thursday. Temple’s 64-49 loss to Richmond in the quarterfinals at the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hawks embarrassed in A-10 opener ** The nation’s No. 1 team loses its first game, 87-67, to Xavier.
Saint Joseph’s senior Jameer Nelson rocked from side-to-side during the national anthem Thursday at the University of Dayton Arena. It appeared to be a sign that America’s No. 1 point guard on the No. 1-ranked on the last unbeaten NCAA Division I team was ready to roll and not…
· Andre D. Williams
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Tiah has accepted his new role like a real pro
Lehigh senior guard Ra Tiah has been a good sport about having to give up his starting spot to a freshman. even though Tiah entered the season as a co-captain and as Lehigh’s poster boy. This was supposed to be his best season. His jump shot and confidence had improved. His…
· Andre D. Williams
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Saint Joseph’s Hawks perched atop AP poll for first time ** Stanford’s loss helps the Philly team move up from the No.2 spot.
Maryland and Georgetown were in Delonte West’s backyard, but never looked in his direction when he was a local high school star guard at Eleanor Roosevelt in Prince George’s County, Md. Neither did Duke, Stanford or any of the other big-named college basketball programs. But now…
· Andre D. Williams
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American looms as lofty final hurdle for Lehigh
American University advanced to its third straight Patriot League Tournament championship game with a victory 65-55 over Colgate on Sunday. But the Eagles would have felt cheated had Lehigh not also won. That’s because the Eagles’ two regular-season losses to Lehigh remain sore…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh men advance to Patriot title game ** A 23-2 first-half run propels Hawks to their first final since 1988.
Now might be the time to jump on the Lehigh bandwagon. The Mountain Hawks will be returning to Stabler Arena with a chance to win their first Patriot League Tournament championship and advance to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 1988. Senior guard Austen Rowland made…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh, Lafayette must end slumps now ** The single-elimination Patriot League tourney begins Saturday.
Lehigh and Lafayette both slumped at the end of the Patriot League season and both could be headed for one-and-done games in the league tournament this weekend. Lehigh, which went 10-4 in league play to finish tied for first and earn the No. 1 seed for the first time ever, needs…
· Andre D. Williams
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Koefer honored to be part of finale ** Saint Joe’s walk-on was able to play in the Hawks’ final home game.
Saint Joseph’s freshman Andrew Koefer, a walk-on out of Central Catholic, experienced only 1:47 of garbage time Tuesday night. It’s a moment he probably will never forget even though he never touched the ball. He got his name into the scorebook, which enabled him to join stars…
· Andre D. Williams
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A picture of perfection ** Saint Joe’s completes regular season at 27-0 with rout of Bonnies.
Perfection was the way Saint Joseph’s guard Jameer Nelson crossed up St. Bonaventure players, either scoring or dishing to an open teammate for a drop in the net Tuesday night. Perfection was also Nelson attacking the glass, out-leaping taller players to yank down rebounds.…
· Andre D. Williams
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A picture of perfection ** Saint Joe’s completes regular season at 27-0 with rout of Bonnies.
Perfection was the way Saint Joseph’s guard Jameer Nelson crossed up St. Bonaventure players, either scoring or dishing to an open teammate for a drop in the net Wednesday night. Perfection was also Nelson attacking the glass, out-leaping taller players to yank down rebounds.…
· Andre D. Williams
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A perfect season should be fait accompmli ** Saint Joe’s closes out the regular season tonight vs. Bonnies.
The perfect opponent visits Hawk Hill tonight as No. 2 Saint Joseph’s attempts to close the regular season 27-0. That opponent is St. Bonaventure, winless in its last 13 road games and a 51-point victim of Saint Joe’s on Jan. 24 in upstate New York. “David had a better chance…
· Andre D. Williams
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All Hinds and Dragons want is a trip to The Dance
Danny Hinds was one of the many Drexel players disappointed with Saturday’s 76-64 loss at Delaware, which prevented the Dragons from clinching first place in the Colonial Athletic Conference. But Hinds, a 6-6 junior forward from Central Catholic, also knows how to look past the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lafayette shocks first-place AU, snaps 29-game skid
The Lafayette women’s basketball team that was on the Kirby Sports Center floor when the final buzzer sounded Saturday afternoon, got tackled. Soon after, all the players got drenched with water. “We did it,” Lafayette senior forward Colleen Fitzpatrick said was her immediate…
· Andre D. Williams
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Skid has Leopards in precarious spot ** They need to beat American today to avoid a fourth-place finish. ** Lafayette
Lafayette College is in a must-win situation entering its regular-season finale at 3:15 today against American at Kirby Sports Center. In the last three games, all losses, the Leopards’ defensive and rebounding weaknesses have been exposed. “I saw them every day in practice,”…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh and Rowland on a title watch ** A successful weekend could bring the Hawks a lot of rewards.
Lehigh University senior guard Austen Rowland zoned in on his coach Billy Taylor longer than usual at practice on Wednesday. Rowland could not stop staring at the sparkling watch Taylor was wearing and was wondering what it would be like to win a similar piece of jewelry this…
· Andre D. Williams
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Catty girls can’t overcome poor start ** The Rough Riders trail by 12 at halftime, lose 55-46 to N. Schuylkill.
Catasauqua blocked shots, forced turnovers and trimmed a 12-point second-half deficit to three points against North Schulylkill Tuesday night. But the Rough Riders’ shooting and rebounding problems never improved in a 55-46 loss in the District 11 Class 2A semifinals at…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh soars past Lafayette ** After nine ties, the Hawks pull away in the final minutes, winning in front of a record crowd at Stabler Arena.
The Lehigh students did not storm onto the Stabler Arena floor after the Mountain Hawks’ 78-73 win over Lafayette Sunday. So Lehigh senior guard Ra Tiah raced over, leaped over the railing and dove into a frenzied sea of Lehigh students wearing Lehigh T-shirts. “I told a couple…
· Andre D. Williams
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Disrespect Saint Joseph’s at your own risk
Temple assistant coach Mark Macon and college basketball analyst Digger Phelps, a former coach at Notre Dame, both need to get up to speed with what Saint Joseph’s has done this season. That would help keep both from putting their feet in their mouths as the No. 2-ranked Hawks…
· Andre D. Williams
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No matter how you cut it, Patriot League gets 1 team
Lafayette College coach Fran O’Hanlon couldn’t have been more correct Saturday when he said, “We haven’t won anything yet.” O’Hanlon was responding to Holy Cross coach Ralph Willard’s statement that he had picked Lafayette to win the Patriot League title. Lafayette (18-5) beat…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lafayette completes sweep of Holy Cross with a 78-72 win
It was an elbow-throwing, body-flying, back-and-forth Patriot League game between Lafayette and Holy Cross Saturday at Kirby Sports Center. It was just like their first meeting on Jan. 17 in Worcester, Mass., which Lafayette won by two points in overtime. This time, Lafayette…
· Andre D. Williams
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St. Joe’s moves to 21-0 with rout of Dayton ** Delonte West scores 24 points and Jameer Nelson adds 16 points and seven assists to lead the way for the Hawks.
You can not stop a team that plays defense as well as it does offense. And you can not tell Saint Joseph’s that it doesn’t deserve to be the No. 3-ranked team in the country. Perfection says so. The Hawks’ bid for a 27-0 regular season remained alive with an 81-67 Atlantic 10…
· Andre D. Williams
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One loss for Lafayette does not a season ruin
Lafayette College’s bid for a 14-0 regular-season record in the Patriot League ended with the Leopards’ 85-77 loss to Colgate on Friday in Hamilton, N.Y. But the the Leopards’ hope to win the league’s regular-season and tournament titles remains alive. Even if Lafayette coach…
· Andre D. Williams
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Saint Joe’s starts off quickly, downs ‘Nova ** Hawks jump out to a 27-8 lead, hold off the Cats, improve to 19-0.
Fantastic guard play figured to be the featured attraction between No. 3 Saint Joseph’s and Villanova on Monday night. There was no disappointment. It’s just that it took a half of basketball before Villanova’s three-guard tandem of Mike Nardi, Randy Foye and Allan Ray to catch…
· Andre D. Williams
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Koefer has the best seat in the house at Saint Joe’s
Andrew Koefer was no star at Allentown Central Catholic and may never experience more than a few minutes playing time in college. But he will not complain. In fact, he believes that he is living out a dream as a freshman walk-on at No. 3-ranked Saint Joseph’s. His dream world,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh women can’t fight all the way back ** Holy Cross ends the Hawks’ unbeaten PL run with a 71-68 win. ** Lehigh Women
The Lehigh women narrowed the gap against Holy Cross to one point five times in the second half Friday night at Stabler Arena. But each time, either a missed shot, turnover, or defensive breakdown prevented the Mountain Hawks from taking the lead. The blown opportunities cost…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kirby becomes a zoo when the Leopards play
There are arenas that are great because of their style, seating capacity, or crowd noise. Lafayette College’s Kirby Sports Center is not exactly a state-of-the-art facility. It lacks the pizzazz of other venues because of its lack of theater-type seating and has a seating…
· Andre D. Williams
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Dill the real deal as Leopards turn away Bison ** His inside presence on both ends keys an 81-72 win over Bucknell.
With 56 seconds remaining in Sunday’s game at Kirby Sports Center, Lafayette senior Rob Dill emphatically blocked a Bucknell shot. Winston Davis, his teammate, recovered the ball just before it went out of bounds. But Bucknell, whose physical, defensive-oriented team had held…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lafayette uses OT to beat Lehigh ** The Leopards take over the Patriot League lead and stay unbeaten with the 111-104 win.
Lafayette College’s Kirby Sports Center rocked like the Palestra in Philadelphia and all the other famous basketball venues in the country Friday night. Lehigh and Lafayette, both battling to remain undefeated in the Patriot League, went through 19 lead changes, a dramatic close…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh, Lafayette out to give each other first loss ** It’s the first time the two have met while unbeaten in league play.
Tickets are still available for tonight’s Lafayette-Lehigh men’s basketball game at Kirby Sports Center in Easton. But not many. “The game is almost sold out,” said Phil LaBella, Lafayette’s sports information director. That’s because two hot teams will be battling for first…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh gets defensive, halts AU in OT ** American goes without a basket the last 5:30 of regulation and all of OT.
Austen Rowland’s mother saw him play for the first time in a Lehigh University basketball uniform Saturday afternoon. M. Michele Rowlands picked the perfect game to attend. She just had to wait a while for the game to end, but it was worth it as Lehigh relied on the one-two…
· Andre D. Williams
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Allen’s Clay commits to Villanova ** The two-way performer will likely play defensive back.
Villanova showed Allen High football star Eugene Clay the town and got what it wished for in return. Clay, a two-time Morning Call All-Area selection and Associated Press PIAA Class 4A second-team pick at wideout in December, announced Tuesday that he had orally committed to the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Zephyrs pick up the pace, rout Ridley in title game ** Guard Jason Greene cans 26 points in the 63-42 victory.
Whitehall has effectively used a slow-down brand of basketball to frustrate and topple many teams over the years. Remember the Zephyrs’ 33-29 overtime victory over Central Catholic earlier in the season? Just boring. “Yes it was,” said Whitehall guard Jason Greene. But the…
· Andre D. Williams
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From water boy to star ** That’s the route Jeff Pammer took on his way to becoming our player of the year. ** Football Player of the Year
You’ve probably seen the Hollywood movies where the former water boy grows up to to earn a position on the high school football team. Rarely is that position as a starter. Hardly ever does the water boy become the star. But in a real life story, Northampton senior Jeff Pammer is…
· Andre D. Williams
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Quips’ Revis takes advantage of his time to shine ** He accounts for all of Aliquippa’s five TDs with rushes and returns.
Aliquippa High’s multi-purpose star Darrelle Revis had breakaway speed and open-field moves, which he used to keep breaking the back of Northern Lehigh’s defense Sunday in the PIAA Class 2A championship football game at Hersheypark Stadium. “He has special giddy-up,” said…
· Andre D. Williams
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One touchdown short ** Aliquippa tops Northern Lehigh in 2A title game
Northern Lehigh needed one last touchdown to cap off the greatest season in school history with the most memorable comeback Sunday in the PIAA Class 2A Championship game at Hersheypark Stadium. But the dreams of the Bulldogs players and estimated 3,500 fans were shattered along…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton falls to North Penn, 38-21 ** The Rovers give it their all in Class 4A Eastern final.
This morning, the Easton football players should be able to stare in the mirror and feel proud. The reflection will be of players who demonstrated more vigor, drive and fight than seemed humanly possible considering they played two games against immensely talented and fast teams…
· Andre D. Williams
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2003: Phillipsburg hands Easton a bitter defeat
All anyone had to do was look into the watery eyes of the Easton players and coaches to understand how passionate the Red Rovers were about their annual Thanksgiving Day game against Phillipsburg Thursday at Lafayette College’s Fisher Field. The game meant the world to the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Phillipsburg hands Easton a bitter defeat
All anyone had to do was look into the watery eyes of the Easton players and coaches to understand how passionate the Red Rovers were about their annual Thanksgiving Day game against Phillipsburg Thursday at Lafayette College’s Fisher Field. The game meant the world to the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton’s “doubleheader’ stirs memories of regret ** East Stroudsburg-South coach wishes he’d done things differently in ’95.
Now that Easton has played it’s all-important Thanksgiving Day game against Phillipsburg, losing 26-23, the Red Rovers (11-2) appear headed for an extremely difficult mission Saturday night. Up next is high-powered and defensively stingy North Penn (13-0) in the PIAA Class 4A…
· Andre D. Williams
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While Easton plays P’burg, North Penn focuses on PIAA playoff ** The 13-0 Knights have reached a second straight 4A East final.
North Penn junior quarterback Adam Hearns was the only Knights player left on the field on a brisk Tuesday night, but it was not by choice. He still had running to do. Again, it was not by choice. It was by demand of coach Dick Beck that Hearns did a series of flexibility drills…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton tops unbeaten Cumberland Valley, 34-20 ** The running back duo of Piperata and Goulbourne thwarts the Eagles by combining for 337 yards and five TDs. ** PIAA FOOTBALL QUARTERFINALS
Easton High was undersized at the line of scrimmage, but was mightier than Cumberland Valley everywhere else in the PIAA Class 4A football quarterfinal playoff game Friday night at HersheyPark Stadium. The Red Rovers’ might came from senior Brad Piperata and junior Ovid…
· Andre D. Williams
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Millen, Groller lead Easton by example ** The two have helped put the Red Rovers in the 4A quarterfinal.
Marcus Millen’s right wrist wouldn’t stop throbbing after he made a second-quarter tackle against Nazareth Oct. 3. But the Easton standout and son of former NFL star Matt Millen stayed in the game and continued to make plays. After the game, he found out his wrist was broken. “I…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lafayette men have horses to make it a race
The basketball, please. It’s time to see whether the Lafayette College men can put it in the hoop more often, rebound better and limit opponents’ scoring. The basketball, please. It’s time to see if, following 40 minutes of regulation play and more if needed, the Leopards will…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton takes District 11 4A crown ** The Red Rovers beat Parkland for their first district title since ’93. ** DISTRICT 11 FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS
Easton still owns Parkland in the playoffs. More importantly, Easton now also owns the District 11 Class 4A title for the first time since 1993. The Red Rovers improved to 4-0 against the Trojans in the playoffs with a 23-15 victory before a crowd of 5,800 Friday at Cottingham…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland’s ready to defend its title ** The Trojans have been pointing toward this game vs. Easton.
Parkland High’s defense was a bone-crushing unit last week in a 35-0 win over East Stroudsburg South. Star lineman Travis Decker figures the Trojans will be even more punishing against Easton at 7 tonight at Cottingham Stadium. “Everyone is pumped up for this game,” Decker said.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton steamrolls Northampton ** Goulbourne, Piperata help set up rematch with Parkland.
Easton showed its nasty side on offense and defense and booted Northampton from the District 11 Class 4A playoffs in the process Friday night at Cottingham Stadium. The Red Rovers’ two running backs, junior Ovid Goulbourne and senior Brad Piperata, bowled over and blew past…
· Andre D. Williams
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Northampton isn’t wary about playing in Cottingham
Northampton had already been out of playoff contention by the time October rolled around and the leaves had changed colors over the past few years. Not so this fall. But how much longer will Northampton’s football season last? The Konkrete Kids (7-3) qualified for the District…
· Andre D. Williams
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Saint Joseph’s is A-10 East favorite ** The conference adds UNC-Charlotte and Saint Louis in 2005-06.
Saint Joseph’s University star guards Jameer Nelson and Delonte West are back and eager to try to press the pants off opponents and score fastbreak points galore. The Hawks are the only Atlantic 10 Conference team to receive national preseason rankings, garnering Top 20 notice…
· Andre D. Williams
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Shootout trips Notre Dame-ES ** Bishop O’Reilly officially wins a wild PIAA soccer game 1-0.
Notre Dame of East Stroudsburg junior goalie Justin Ross rolled up his sleeves, dropped down and pounded the turf Tuesday at J. Birney Crum Stadium in Allentown. Bishop O’Reilly junior midfielder Alex Gionta knelt down, reflected with a silent prayer, and calmed his nerves…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty completes sweep of Bethlehem
The season-ending game for Bethlehem bragging rights had been circled on the schedules of Freedom and Liberty since August. But only Liberty seemed ready for the challenge when the two rivals met in a Lehigh Valley Conference Northampton Division matchup before a spirited crowd…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton evens score, routs Becahi ** Red Rovers dominate from the outset en route to a 24-0 win.
Easton High erased the nightmares of past failures against Bethlehem Catholic with a big-play offense and a crunching defense Friday night. The Red Rovers needed just two plays to score on their first drive and rolled up seven more points in just five plays on their next drive.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lafayette readies itself for a shot at Holy Cross ** Patriot League Basketball
Lafayette College fifth-year senior guard Winston Davis has envisioned what his coach, Fran O’Hanlon, has refused to think about. That’s a Lafayette team ready and capable of unseating Holy Cross as Patriot League champion and advancing to the NCAA Tournament for the first time…
· Andre D. Williams
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Notre Dame-East Stroudsburg wins District 11 title ** Underclassmen pace third-seeded Spartans to upset No. 1 Moravian Academy in Class A contest.
The first goal by sophomore forward Ben Vauter turned the tide in favor of third-seeded Notre Dame of East Stroudsburg in the District 11 Class 1A boys soccer championship Thursday at J. Birney Crum Stadium. The next two goals, both by junior midfielder Jeff Natale in the fist…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton can win a lot by beating Bethlehem Catholic
For the fifth straight year, Easton and Bethlehem Catholic will meet in a meaningful game. But it’s more meaningful for Easton. The Red Rovers (7-1, 4-0) can clinch the Lehigh Valley Conference Northampton Division title outright and the No. 1 spot and homefield advantage in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Tigers topple Palisades ** Norhtwestern’s defense excels; Jordan Smith scores twice.
Northwestern sophomore Jordan Smith was undisturbed by the Palisades defense and windy, brisk weather Thursday afternoon in New Tripoli. Playing on his home field, Smith seemed in control from the outset of the second half of a District 11 Class 2A boys soccer quarterfinal. His…
· Andre D. Williams
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For Becahi, K-Kids are first of two do-or-die games
Bethlehem Catholic is still alive and making a strong run at qualifying for the District 11 Class 4A playoffs for the sixth straight year. Parkland is just hours away from proving it is the best team holding residence on Cedar Crest Boulevard, and the Trojans (6-2) visit Emmaus…
· Andre D. Williams
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Bethlehem Catholic runs past Freedom ** The Golden Hawks use three swift backs to clip the Patriots.
A look at each sideline instantly revealed the difference between the Bethlehem Catholic and Freedom programs. Bethlehem Catholic had more than twice as many players as Freedom and seemed to develop more swagger as the Lehigh Valley Conference Northampton Division game continued…
· Andre D. Williams
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Pirates’ Plummer wins her third crown ** ND’s Rocco Panella is boys champ as Bangor’s Nick Liguori falls. ** Cross Country
Palisades senior Christa Plummer didn’t allow a headache, sore throat or windy conditions to slow her down in the Colonial League girls cross country championship Thursday at DeSales University. That’s because nothing was wrong with Plummer’s legs as she completed the 3.1 mile…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland’s defense holds off Central Catholic ** The Trojans allow the Vikings only 22 yards rushing on 25 attempts.
It didn’t matter that the Parkland High offense stumbled for most of its Lehigh Valley Conference game against Central Catholic because the Trojans’ defense gave a bone-crushing performance Saturday night at J. Birney Crum Stadium. Led by defensive end Travis Decker, the Trojans…
· Andre D. Williams
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Freedom and Easton could answer some questions ** Then again, so could Parkland and Cinderella Emmaus.
Compelling questions about Freedom (5-1) and Easton (4-1) will be answered when they meet in a Lehigh Valley Conference Northampton Division game at 7 tonight at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. Who’s tougher? Who can run the ball better? And, of course, who’s No. 1? With…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty gets another shot at a big win vs. Becahi ** The Hurricanes haven’t beaten the Golden Hawks since ’84.
Opportunity to beat an elite team knocks for Liberty when the Hurricanes play Bethlehem Catholic at 7 tonight at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. “It knocks too many times,” said Liberty coach Tim Moncman, which isn’t exactly a joke considering that the Hurricanes (3-2)…
· Andre D. Williams
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New names surfacing at top of LVC standings ** Easton, Northampton, Emmaus have all gotten off to good starts.
Easton was expected to be a top contender for the Lehigh Valley Conference title and a top District 11 Class 4A playoff spot. Emmaus and Northampton did not have the same expectations, but all three teams enter the fifth week of the season with stronger possibilities for…
· Andre D. Williams
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Someone’s season could be on the line in Orefield ** The loser of tonight’s Parkland-Becahi game will fall to 1-3.
A year ago, Bethlehem Catholic and Parkland played two games that were like the Super Bowls of Lehigh Valley football. Bethlehem Catholic won the first meeting, 29-28 in overtime. Parkland prevailed in the second game, 14-11 to win the District 11 Class 4A title en route to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Cancer has taught Syracuse mentor to teach life
His NCAA championship victory in April, his 635 coaching victories over 27 seasons and his three Big East Conference Coach of the Year Awards rank as great sports accomplishments for Syracuse University men’s basketball coach Jim Boeheim. But his biggest victory did not come on…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland rebounds with thrashing of Liberty ** The Trojans use an forgiving defense to record their first win.
Parkland and Liberty linemen tangled at the line of scrimmage, both trying to plow over the other. Only Parkland succeeded. Liberty was missing key players, but the lopsided final margin still might not have mattered had the Hurricanes been at full strength. That’s because…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty hopes to avoid mistakes vs. Parkland ** History hasn’t been fair to the Hurricanes, who look for a good showing.
Liberty High survived last week, beating Pleasant Valley 35-28 in double overtime. Now comes a bigger team, a bigger task. Parkland’s visit to Bethlehem Area School District Stadium to play Liberty at 7 p.m. Saturday will be the Hurricanes’ biggest home game in years. Parkland…
· Andre D. Williams
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IT’S OPENING NIGHT ** Parkland, Becahi, Easton to be tested
The stadium lights will be turned on and the blocking, tackling, passing, punishing and juking between the lines will commence throughout the Lehigh Valley this weekend as the high school football season kicks off. Lehigh Valley Conference powers Parkland, Bethlehem Catholic and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Pleasant Valley poised for another run **MVC Soccer
One game in 2001, another in 2002. Both were District 11 Class 3A boys soccer championship thrillers that just didn’t go Pleasant Valley’s way. The Bears were upstaged by Emmaus, 1-0 in 2001 and 3-2 by Parkland in 2002. “Both of them were real tough games,” said Pleasant Valley…
· Andre D. Williams
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Led by standout Jason Yeisley, this could be the year of the Falcons ** Colonial Soccer
Salisbury junior forward Jason Yeisley is being talked about by Colonial League coaches more than any other player in the league. And it’s for good reason. Yeisley has scored 53 goals the last two seasons, and may be just as prolific dialing up net as he leads the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Scott may get few chances to shine at Big 33 Classic ** But the PSU-bound former Parkland star may not need many.
Austin Scott, the record-breaking Parkland High tailback who’ll begin his college career at Penn State next month, will have plenty of star company in the PNC Big 33 Classic at 7 tonight at Hersheypark Stadium. But will Scott be the biggest star? The run-and-shoot offense that…
· Andre D. Williams
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Bednarik wants to go out a winner ** He’ll get the chance in his last high-school game Saturday night.
Adam Bednarik had a celebrated high school football season at Bethlehem Catholic last fall, throwing for 27 touchdowns and over 2,300 yards. He was named to the Associated Press Big School first team and was The Morning Call’s all-area quarterback. He was also selected to the…
· Andre D. Williams
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ValleyDawgs still incredulous about USBL officiating ** Losing the league title game on a controversial call has them seething.
With crushed hearts and tempers not yet cooled, the Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs had hoped a feast at Applebee’s would ease their discontent over losing the United States Basketball League championship by a point Sunday night in Dodge City, Kan. But it didn’t. The controversial way…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Dawgs enter playoffs with Winn-ing attitude ** They go to Dodge City with the USBL’s top offense and solid defense. ** Valleydawgs
He swarmed the dribbler from one end of the court to the other, and when the ball was passed off, he still stayed on his man like an annoying gnat. It was just practice, but playing pesky defense is just something the Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs’ 5-11 guard Tim Winn loves. Even…
· Andre D. Williams
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Outstanding in his field ** Three-sport star Adam Bednarik is turning his attention to football again.
Like all the players in the McDonald’s Football Classic, Bethlehem Catholic quarterback Adam Bednarik will wear his school’s helmet for the final time at 7 tonight at Nazareth High. It just won’t be the same Golden Hawks helmet he wore during the season, the one that was loaded…
· Andre D. Williams
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Pinchek living his dream ** The tough-as-nails Parkland star will be heading to Penn State as a walk-on, but he has one game left at home.
He was in the middle of a game with Emmaus High when his helmet clamped down awkwardly, resulting in a nasty gash on his face. “It was painful,” said Parkland High senior Nick Pinchek. But Pinchek finished the game and continued to play through the discomfort of the gash until…
· Andre D. Williams
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Keeping hope alive a way of life in USBL ** The NBA looms large over the hoops league. Just ask Ace Custis.
Ace Custis experienced the disappointment of his basketball career following a 16-point, eight-rebound performance in just 23 minutes during a 2001 summer league game with the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs had 17 players on the roster that summer, and, though he played well,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Players not alone seeking NBA future ** Coaches, including the ‘Dawgs’ Dawkins, want their shot as well.
Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs coach Darryl Dawkins is battling the tough odds of joining John Lucas and Eric Mussleman as the only United States Basketball League coaches to be hired as head coaches in the NBA. Is Dawkins ready? He says yes. Is he qualified? He says yes. Is his 88-54…
· Andre D. Williams
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25 years later, Holmes is still fighting for respect ** His remarkable reign lasted 71/2 years, but few rank him among the all-time greats.
The world became Larry Holmes’ to splash around in on June 9, 1978, but the woman he wanted to join him refused. Diane Holmes, who was not yet married to Larry when he won a 15-round split decision over Ken Norton to become the World Boxing Council heavyweight champion that…
· Andre D. Williams
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SportsFest a hit with athletes, fans and Web surfers ** The 7th annual event, to be held in Allentown July 11-13, has grown to include 41 events.
The Allentown Sports Festival’s Web site had 44,955 hits from July 1 to July 13 last year. “The athletes go on the Web a lot,” said SportsFest chairman Ray Atiyeh, adding, “And we have a pretty good webmaster [Kathy Moyer]. She lists all the winners, even from past years. It’s…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Dawgs beat defending champs ** But the 118-102 victory over the Storm comes in a nearly empty arena.
The Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs had only a handful of fans to cheer them on, but they had little trouble getting energized for the Oklahoma Storm Thursday night at Stabler Arena. The game matched the United States Basketball League’s top-scoring teams. Oklahoma is averaging 114.9…
· Andre D. Williams
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Spring talent blossoms ** Becahi’s diminutive Carter come up huge
How small was Bethlehem Catholic sprinter Brandon Carter when he was a freshman? “I don’t know if his head came up to a hurdle,” said Golden Hawks track and field coach Gary Mohylsky. “I was pretty tiny,” admitted Carter, who was 5-2 as a freshman. He’s a shade under 5-8 now,…
· Andre D. Williams
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ValleyDawgs can’t keep up with Dodge City in 115-97 loss ** The defeat is the first suffered in eight home games for the team. ** ValleyDawgs
The Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs were out-jumped, out-dunked and out-hustled by the Dodge City Legend Tuesday night at Stabler Arena. Maybe the ‘Dawgs are not as skilled as Dodge City. The 115-97 loss marked the second time in 10 days they have been subdued by the Legend. The ‘Dawgs…
· Andre D. Williams
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There’s gold at states for local schools ** Carter’s incredible show lifts Becahi boys to 2A team title.
In his 10th and final race over the two-day period, Bethlehem Catholic High junior Brandon Carter experienced a terrible feeling with approximately 200 meters left in the Class 2A 1,600-meter relay at the PIAA Track and Field Championships Saturday at Seth Grove Stadium. “My…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kleintop’s leap with faith gets medal ** The Parkland senior takes fourth in the triple jump at state meet.
Parkland High senior Ryan Kleintop visualized the triple jump that clinched his first ever PIAA Track and Field Championships medal Friday at Seth Grove Stadium. But before he focused on his final attempt, he stood on the runway and blocked out the distractions of sprinters…
· Andre D. Williams
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Trovato, rest of Golden Hawks have busy weekend planned ** The Becahi sprinters plan on being on the medals stand Saturday.
Bethlehem Catholic sprinter Frank Trovato has already rented his tuxedo, shined his shoes and has limousine service set up for him and his prom date for Friday night. Trovato even has plans for his girlfriend to ride with him from the Lehigh Valley to Shippensburg University…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kutztown speedster Eisenhart has his eyes on gold ** School record holder in the 400 has qualified for nationals.
For 400 meters, one circuit around the track, Kutztown University senior Scott Eisenhart says he falls into a relaxed zone. Even when he has trailed, Eisenhard has not changed his style or his focus. “You want to stay relaxed,” he said. “You don’t want to try too hard so your…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland’s Kleintop is three-times golden ** He wins the long and triple jumps and leads off the 400 relay.
Allen’s Eugene Clay jumped up and exclaimed, “Yes!” His teammate, Desroy Miller, said joyfully, “Wow,” to a close bystander. You’d have thought that the Canary juniors had won their races. But Miller was second in the 100-meter dash and Clay second in the 110 high hurdles in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Becahi sets district record in 400 relay ** Hawks also win the 1,600 relay, and Carter sets a mark in the 200.
The Bethlehem Catholic 400-meter relay fell behind early, rallied to gain the lead over the next two legs and then closed with the six other anchor-leg runners looking at the back of Golden Hawks junior Brandon Carter. Carter was focused on the finish line, rousing the crowd as…
· Andre D. Williams
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D-11 track meets still one day ** Some want today’s 2A finals and Thursday’s 3A event spread out. ** District 1 Track & Field Previews
Freedom track coach Ray Herman, who has been coaching and winning consistently in the sport for more than 30 years, has a request that he wants all the principals and members of the District 11 Committee to consider. “I prefer the two-day meet, like our league [Lehigh Valley…
· Andre D. Williams
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Fatzinger soars to new heights ** The Catty pole vaulter sets a PR and wins Colonial gold at 13-9.
As he prepared to try to vault to a personal-best height, Catasauqua junior Allan Fatzinger paid no attention to the deceptively positive omens that appeared. There was a rainbow to his left and the sun had just broken through the clouds on his right. But Fatzinger focused only…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hawk Carter, Trojan Scott excel ** Carter wins head-to- head in the 100. Scott keys Parkland in a relay.
Feet don’t fail me now. How many runners prayed for that not to happen in the Lehigh Valley Conference track and field championships Wednesday at J. Birney Crum Stadium in Allentown? Bethlehem Catholic junior Brandon Carter didn’t have to worry. He won the 100-meter dash in 10.9…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland’s Kleintop wins triple and high jumps
The veins in Parkland senior Ryan Kleintop’s neck seemed as if they would burst through his skin each time he sprinted down the straightaway leading to the jumping pit. “I just try to get as pumped up for each jump as I can,” Kleintop said. He jumped farther and higher than…
· Andre D. Williams
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Putting his best shot forward ** Freedom’s Tyler Jones is a sizable softie. Just ask his twin sister Amy. ** Local Track
Freedom two-sport senior Tyler Jones may look imposing at 6-3, 280 pounds, but his twin sister Amy says he’s really a teddy bear. “He doesn’t cry at movies or anything,” Amy said. “He’s just one of those brothers who you get along with. Maybe, it’s because we are the same age…
· Andre D. Williams
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ValleyDawgs change clothes, rip Brevard
The Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs changed uniforms at halftime. They didn’t change the way they were drubbing the Brevard Blue Ducks in transition Saturday night at Stabler Arena. And the fun continued even when the ball wasn’t in play. Former NBA center Olden Polynice playfully…
· Andre D. Williams
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If you want better times in May, stiffen the competition in April
In the next four weeks league, district and state champions will be crowned in track and field. May is designed for that. April is supposed to be about building speed, strength, distance and mental toughness. Unfortunately, April was also a misleading month for far too many area…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Dawgs want to continue winning ways ** They open their home season tonight against the Texas Rim Rockers.
Confetti will not be dropped from the rafters and fireworks won’t be fired off in the building. No big-named musician will sing the National Anthem. The Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs just want to open their home season at Stabler Arena, please the fans with dunks, long-range…
· Andre D. Williams
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Centenarian’s “dash’ draws raves at Penn Relays
Anybody who just liked track and field before coming to the 109th edition of the Penn Relays on Saturday at Franklin Field probably loves the sport now. The athletes standing in unison at the finish line to cheer on the last-place sprinter along with thousands of fans in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Javelin ace Crocus to vie at Penn Relays ** Pole-vaulter Birckhead also will test a field of excellent athletes.
Two defending PIAA Class 3A track and field champions, Beth Crocus of Freedom and Liberty’s Lauren Birckhead, will head the list of local athletes who will compete in the 109th Penn Relays today at Franklin Field in Philadelphia. An intriguing question is: Will both try to peak…
· Andre D. Williams
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On track without a track ** They practice on the streets and sometimes even in a cemetery. Still, the Bethlehem Catholic sprinters deliver.
Bethlehem Catholic sprinters stampeded the grass field, perhaps awakening the dead the faster they ran, and passed the baton from hand-to-hand at Wednesday’s practice. Odd as it seemed, practice was at Memorial Park Cemetery, located across the street from the high school. “This…
· Andre D. Williams
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His daughter is quick, and she isn’t alone
Tony Lattimore is an assistant track & field coach at Easton and the father of one of the area’s top female sprinters. But he doesn’t brag much about daughter Danielle. Sure, he’s always happy about her accomplishments in high school and the Junior Olympics. But Tony is just as…
· Andre D. Williams
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Crocus excels, but Easton defeats Freedom ** Richmond-bound Crocus wins in javelin, discus and shot put.
Losing wasn’t anything Freedom High thrower Beth Crocus feared in a dual meet against Easton on Tuesday at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. It wasn’t a district, state or national meet. That’s where Crocus, a senior and two-time defending PIAA Class 3A champion in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Barbosa, Gray team up for win ** The dynamic duo play together and win the Bickel-McCarron title.
If they had played on the same high school basketball team, Allen’s Ray Barbosa and Emmaus’ Aaron Gray believe they would have won a PIAA Class 4A title. “No question,” said Barbosa, The Morning Call’s Player of the Year who has a scholarship to James Madison University. “If we…
· Andre D. Williams
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Scott not up to speed, but Trojans sweep Becahi ** The football star is beaten in the sprints, but Parkland prevails.
Parkland senior Austin Scott had many breakaway runs en route to a 53-touchdown football season last fall. Often, he seemed on the verge of being off to the races the second he took handoffs. But a change of season has brought a different result for Scott. His football feats…
· Andre D. Williams
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Dawkins pulls no punches in upcoming autobiography ** He attacks NBA players and issues in his book, ‘Chocolate Thunder.’
Darryl Dawkins, the former Philadelphia 76ers and New Jersey Nets center, is currently being more outspoken than during any of his 14 seasons in the NBA. He is more vocal about many NBA issues, including those involving inflated salaries and egos. He is naming names and telling…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland-Becahi scheduled for early-season showdown ** Track & Field
Who’s back? Who’s fast? Who’s faster? Who’s stronger and hungrier? Every spring those are the No. 1 questions in track and field. Nothing has changed, except the weather has been absolutely horrible, making it difficult for sprinters and field performers to train like normal.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Gray waits for Pitt situation to be resolved ** The Emmaus senior wants to see who will be the new coach.
Emmaus center Aaron Gray will be playing Division I basketball next season, but it is no longer guaranteed that he will be wearing a University of Pittsburgh uniform. The 6-11 Gray was disappointed to learn last week that Ben Howland had resigned as Pittsburgh’s coach to take…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hopkins wants to beat someone known ** Hakkar was no match, getting knocked down 5 times in 8 rounds.
Middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins destroyed another overmatched opponent in another mandatory title defense Saturday night at the First Union Spectrum. His opponent, Frenchman Mourade Hakkar, dropped to the canvas five times. Finally, referee Frank Cappuccino stopped the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Rahman-Tua heavyweight rematch ends in a draw ** “I just can’t get a decision against this guy,’ says Rahman.
Hasim Rahman’s quest to regain a portion of the heavyweight championship belt won’t be realized anytime soon. At least, not until Rahman beats David Tua. Rahman, the former WBC and IBF champion, thought he had done that Saturday night in the co-featured main event at the First…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hopkins wanted a big name, but got Hakkar instead
Middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins wanted to fight Roy Jones Jr., but was not willing to be cheated out of money. He would have settled for Oscar de la Hoya, but the Golden Boy has stayed clear. Welterweights Shane Mosley and Vernon Forrest know how to find Hopkins, but…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hopkins is fighting to stay on top of the world ** He’s seen “the bottom’ — prison — and likes his current view better.
Undisputed middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins has been to a place he called the “bottom of the world.” Listen up. It’s a place Hopkins said he is not willing to be exiled back to, not by Frenchman Mourade Hakkar, whom he’ll defend his WBA, WBC and IBF titles against Saturday…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lady Lions heading to Sweet 16 ** Penn State gets physical and tosses South Carolina from the women’s NCAA Tournament.
South Carolina tried to bump and hold, but Penn State retaliated with roughhouse play of its own in a women’s basketball NCAA Mideast Region second-round game Tuesday night at the Bryce Jordan Center. Penn State also had offensive punch, led by Kelly Mazzante. Tanisha Wright led…
· Andre D. Williams
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Mazzante too much for Holy Cross ** The PSU junior scores 27 points, plays good defense, in a 64-33 win.
Penn State guard Kelly Mazzante did not touch the ball in the early moments as Holy Cross defenders hawked her every move Sunday at the Bryce Jordan Center. When she went left, there was Liz O’Connor blanketing her. When she worked to the top of the key, hands flew in her face.…
· Andre D. Williams
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A-10 places 3 in tourney, none lower than 7th seed
The Atlantic 10 Conference has qualified multiple teams to the NCAA Tournament for the 12th time in the last 13 years. Even more impressive is that the conference enters the Big Dance with tournament champion Dayton (24-5) and Xavier (25-5) having received their highest ever…
· Andre D. Williams
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Villanova hopes to get out of 2nd round ** The Wildcats, with 3 local players, are happy to be a No. 2 seed.
Senior forward Nicole Druckenmiller tightly held onto the television remote control from her front row seat and braced herself for the NCAA Selection Committee’s announcement on Sunday. She anxiously waited to see which team she and her Villanova Wildcats teammates were going to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Cooney wishes the race card had never been played
Gerry Cooney is satisfied with his life 21 years after he failed to win the heavyweight championship from Larry Holmes. That loss has not haunted him. It only made him stronger and more committed to helping other boxers get their lives in order after they retire. His health is…
· Andre D. Williams
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Ex-champ recalls racial frenzy of Holmes-Cooney
Larry Holmes’ arms were raised in victory. His reign as heavyweight champion would continue after a 13th-round technical knockout of Gerry Cooney, the man many thought of as “the great white hope.” With the victory, Holmes hoped the racial barrier that he believed separated…
· Andre D. Williams
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“Naughty’ is the exception, not rule
The conference and NCAA Tournament games of March should not be overshadowed by the scandal and controversy of a few naughty programs. Because for every Georgia, Fresno State and St. Bonaventure, there are dozens upon dozens of Lehighs and Lafayettes, Penns and Princetons —…
· Andre D. Williams
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Take a number: A-10 has three as tourney unfolds ** Xavier, Dayton and Saint Joe’s are all ranked — a tournament first. ** Atlantic 10
Saint Joseph’s has a blazing backcourt, led by All-American candidate Jameer Nelson and shooters galore. The Hawks also have a coach, Phil Martelli, who does as much cheering as anyone with pompons. Their 22-5 season includes a 4-0 record against Philadelphia rivals, giving them…
· Andre D. Williams
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American U. makes quick work of Leopards ** Lafayette, playing its second game in as many nights, loses 74-55 in a Patriot semifinal.
The game moved faster than Lafayette College probably would have liked Sunday night. So did American. As a result, Lafayette coach Fran O’Hanlon doesn’t have to worry about trying to get any more miles out of his players. American saw to that, using its speed on both ends of the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Patriot League tourney offers improved Lehigh its biggest test
First-year Lehigh coach Billy Taylor is ready and confident as he leads the Mountain Hawks into the Patriot League tournament this weekend. These are the games that can lead to tears trickling down the faces of the losers and exuberance overwhelming the winners. It takes three…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh’s Taylor named top P.L. coach ** Lehigh’s best haul ever includes four awards. For the women, Tierney is all-league again.
Billy Taylor won people over by winning more games than any other first-year men’s basketball coach at Lehigh. On Wednesday, the Patriot League named Taylor its coach of the year, marking the first such accomplishment for Lehigh. Taylor’s honor was one of four postseason awards…
· Andre D. Williams
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DeSales falls short at Scranton, awaits word on bid ** The 21-6 Bulldogs need an at-large bid to make the NCAA tourney.
The DeSales University players fought hard, extending themselves to their limits to erase a 16-point deficit and briefly take a one-point lead. But Scranton just kept on coming, sinking all the big shots and playing pesky defense to pull out a 72-65 victory in the MAC Freedom…
· Andre D. Williams
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Tyson gives what people want, Holmes says
Trying to figure out what’s in the brain of former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson is a task many psychiatrists might find difficult, so Larry Holmes is not even going to attempt. All Holmes, who held the heavyweight title 1978-85, can really do is speak about the general…
· Andre D. Williams
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So far, so good for Lehigh, Taylor ** The rookie coach has made Lehigh the most improved team in D-I.
Two tough road losses last weekend to Holy Cross and Colgate did not spoil what was a successful first half of play in the Patriot League for the Lehigh men’s basketball team. The losses — 63-39 at Holy Cross and 77-68 at Colgate — have the Mountain Hawks waiting impatiently to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh women have great weekend; Lehigh men don’t ** The women win two to share 1st place; men lose two to drop from 1st.
A road trip that began with the Lehigh men holding onto sole possession of first place in the Patriot League, ended with a second straight setback. It wasn’t for a lack of hustle because Lehigh played hard on both ends of the court in a 77-68 loss to Colgate Sunday in a Patriot…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh men go cold, lose their cool in loss to Holy Cross ** First-place Mountain Hawks can’t find the basket in a 63-39 loss. ** Lehigh Basketball
Lehigh’s big challenge against Patriot League defending champion Holy Cross was more of a big chill, and ultimately a big letdown in a 63-39 loss Friday night at the Hart Center. Nobody in a Lehigh uniform made a field goal in the first half except senior guard Zlatko Savovic,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Don’t look now, but Lehigh’s atop the Patriot League ** The Hawks are 5-0 in the league and are heading up to Holy Cross.
The Patriot League standings has a sole occupant of first place. It’s not two-time defending league champion Holy Cross, which has the league’s tallest and best frontcourt; it’s Lehigh. But the Crusaders can move back into a tie for the top spot on Friday by beating the Mountain…
· Andre D. Williams
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With dad on hand, Taylor’s big night gets bigger ** Lehigh’s new coach takes his first look at Lafayette tonight.
The Lehigh men’s basketball coach who seemed to be tailor-made for the position will have the opportunity to prove himself and his team to the man who taught and motivated him back in Illinois. Dennis Taylor, whose son Billy is in his first season as Lehigh’s coach, will make…
· Andre D. Williams
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Leopards run out of steam, can’t close on Quakers ** Lafayette drops to 3-34 against O’Hanlon’s former employer. ** Men’s Basketball
Lafayette College scrapped back with a much-improved offense, a hustling defense that forced turnovers, and just about everything else it had left over the final 10 minutes of the second half against the University of Pennsylvania Tuesday night at Kirby Sports Center. But…
· Andre D. Williams
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Penn is mightier than Lafayette
Lafayette College gets a break from its Patriot League schedule tonight, but the Leopards’ 7:30 home game against the Ivy League’s University of Pennsylvania is a step up in competition. It could be considered a level higher than the Leopards’ games against Arizona State on Nov.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Leopards let Holy Cross off the ropes ** Lafayette plays well, but squanders a 13-point lead to the PL champs.
Lafayette threw everything it had at Patriot League heavyweight Holy Cross, except a knockout blow, Saturday afternoon at Kirby Sports Center. For Lafayette, there were guards Justin DeBerry and Winston Davis popping 3-pointers from way out. There was 6-10 center Rob Dill…
· Andre D. Williams
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Patriot League mired near bottom of RPI standings
Holy Cross’ upset of Boston College and Lafayette’s stunning defeat of the University of Massachusetts have done little to improve the Patriot League’s extremely low Ratings Percentage Index (RPI), and as a result, only the league tournament champion appears likely to advance to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Big East not that big of a deal to Patriot Leaguers ** The league is 1-4, but that includes Lehigh’s 6-point loss to Miami.
The Big East Conference has been a headache to Patriot League teams this season, though not as big as you might think. Not even to improved Lehigh, which had a chance to drown the fans in Coral Gables, Fla. on Dec. 30 with disappointment before Ohio State’s football team did the…
· Andre D. Williams
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After tough start, Parkland was unstoppable ** The Trojans lost their opener, then won 14 straight, culminating with a state title. ** Team of the Year
They started the season by having their hearts ripped out. Bethlehem Catholic capped off a stirring season-opener with quarterback Adam Bednarik’s completion of a two-point conversion pass to Fred Rice for a 29-28 overtime victory. But after that loss, Parkland did all the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Trojan defense delivered ** Parkland’s defense helped win a state title. But could it stop Scott?
If faced with the challenge, could the Parkland defense have swallowed up Trojan record-breaking tailback Austin Scott in the same nasty way it did Woodland Hills in the PIAA Class 4A Championship game Saturday night in Hershey? Think about it. No defense stopped Scott. Some had…
· Andre D. Williams
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Scott leads Parkland to a one-sided victory **State champions
She was the lady in the fur coat standing on the muddy steps in Hersheypark Stadium Saturday night, requesting to talk to the star Parkland running back, her nephew Austin Scott. He was the man wearing a much less flamboyant coat, proudly talking about the astuteness of his son,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Austin’s powers are prolific ** Parkland’s Austin Scott is about to wrap up a season for the ages. ** PIAA Class 4A Football Championship
There are many ways to score touchdowns. Long runs, short runs. Long pass receptions, short pass receptions. Punt returns. Kickoff returns. Defensively. Parkland’s Austin Scott has explored most of these options during his memorable and historic season. And he’s not done, yet.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Wolverines, as usual, loaded with talent ** Ranked No. 3 in the country by USA Today, Woodland Hills boasts three huge linemen and a stud D-back.
The Woodland Hills High football team has three 300-plus-pound starting offensive linemen and a safety in Ryan Mundy, who is being recruited by Pittsburgh, Penn State, Michigan, Virginia and Notre Dame. In essence, it’s the type of talent pool that veteran Wolverines coach…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland has only good memories ** The Trojans go for one more Saturday vs. Woodland Hills. ** PIAA Class 4A Championship Game
They often yelled during stretching drills, “Orefield Beach, baby,” despite bitter cold temperatures that had frozen the ground Wednesday at Parkland Stadium. “I think it was colder out here [Tuesday], but it’s nice to be out here now when nobody else from the Lehigh Valley is…
· Andre D. Williams
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Trojans’ win was equal parts offense and defense ** Austin Scott was brilliant, and Parkland’s “D’ was fired up.
They were beauty on offense, and a beast on defense, in the PIAA Class 4A semifinals Friday night. Parkland’s offense was led by perhaps the best dancer in cleats that the Lehigh Valley has ever seen, in senior tailback Austin Scott. The Trojans were also that dominant on…
· Andre D. Williams
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For Parkland, it keeps getting sweeter ** The Trojans are on their way to Hershey for the PIAA title game. ** PIAA Class 4A Football Semifinal
The school buses that are used to transport Parkland football players, band members and fans will have to be cranked up for one more trip. And it will be a sweet one, because the Trojans are going to Hershey for the PIAA Class 4A championship. “We’ve been working since March for…
· Andre D. Williams
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Multiple running threats will keep the Trojans guessing ** Parkland needs the answer to get past North Penn, into finals.
North Penn kind of backed into the District One playoffs as the eighth seed. And the Knights refused to be kicked out once they got there. They won three straight, including last week’s 25-14 win over Interboro in the district championship game, to secure a matchup against…
· Andre D. Williams
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Consummate player ** Parkland’s Pinchek has taken a backseat this year and likes the view.
Parkland High senior Nick Pinchek had to turn over the reins of the Trojans offense, knowing that the return of tailback Austin Scott would mean less handoffs and the possibility of not rushing for 1,000-plus yards again. But less touches of the football has not meant less…
· Andre D. Williams
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Trojans tame Central Dauphin, advance to PIAA semifinals ** After building a 28-0 lead, Parkland survives, 28-21. North Penn is next.
Some of them rolled around on the artificial turf. One even kissed the surface. “The game is over,” said Parkland senior fullback Nick Pinchek Saturday afternoon. “It’s the greatest feeling in the world. Until they play again. Junior defensive end Travis Decker assured that…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Real focused’ Parkland must execute its game plan ** Trojans put a stellar season on line tonight vs. Central Dauphin ** PIAA 4A Quarterfinals
The planning is over. Now it’s time for Parkland to just go out and beat the USA Today’s 13th-ranked team, a team that is averaging 47 points and which once rolled up 76 points on an opponent this season. That team is Central Dauphin, which will bring a 12-0 record into…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland to face coaching legend ** Central Dauphin’s George Chaump has a remarkable resume.
Central Dauphin coach George Chaump has been an assistant coach under the legendary Woody Hayes at Ohio State and under John McKay with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He has also been a head coach at Marshall, Navy and Indiana University at Pennsylvania. He has been around awhile.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Muhlenberg men about to begin life after Lesko ** The graduationof their All-American leaves the Mules searching.
It’s not surprising that the Muhlenberg College men received 11 first-place votes in the coaches’ pre-season Centennial Conference poll. The Mules have won or shared the title eight out of the last nine years. However, those votes may have been based more on reputation than on…
· Andre D. Williams
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Mule women are ready to run ** Coach Ron Rohn has a deep team with players who can run and shoot.
The Muhlenberg College women are ready to run and shoot 3’s, and use their pressure defense to force turnovers that lead to more points. They have that much energy, that much depth, and a second-year coach in Ron Rohn who plans to use a system called, “organized chaos.” Fasten…
· Andre D. Williams
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ESU dominates Kutztown, wins share of first PSAC title since ’91 ** The Warriors use a bruising ground attack to finish the season 8-2.
Some of the East Stroudsburg players looked like a pack of jubilant kids the way they were belly-flopping and sliding on the muddy field at Eiler-Martin Stadium Saturday afternoon. For many of them, a childhood dream had just been fulfilled. The Warriors clinched a share of the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Scott also provided some heavy “D’
As guaranteed by star tailback Austin Scott 12 weeks ago, Parkland got the rematch with Bethlehem Catholic Friday night with the District 11 Class 4A title on the line. And led by Scott’s 222 yards rushing and touchdown runs that covered 57 and 28 yards, Parkland made the best…
· Andre D. Williams
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Scott stars, but it’s Pinchek in a pinch ** Nick Pinchek’s clutch run tops off another superlative effort by Austin Scott. ** District 11 Class 4A Football Championship
First, Parkland tailback Nick Pinchek did his part with hard, punishing blocks, helping teammate Austin Scott rush for over 200 yards and into the state record books Friday night in the District 11 Class 4A championship game at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. Then the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Opposing forces ** Parkland coach Rob Melosky has a quarterback mentality.
Down, set, hike. The former high school and college quarterback is being rushed from all points, but he is not running anywhere. Parkland coach Rob Melosky is just standing there, taking all the shots and handling the pressure just as he used to do when he was taking snaps from…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland and Becahi are right where they want to be ** They met in August and the game went into OT. Tonight, a title is on the line.
Following his sensational running show, which made Bethlehem Catholic’s defense appear to be frozen in place, Parkland tailback Austin Scott huddled his teammates and made a very bold prediction. “We will see them again,” Scott told his teammates. Many of those Parkland players…
· Andre D. Williams
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Becahi-Parkland will come down to defense ** Both teams have exceptional offenses, but can either stop the other?
No team has stopped the offense of Bethlehem Catholic or Parkland. They didn’t even stop each other. But the defenses of both teams will give it another shot when Parkland (10-1) meets Bethlehem Catholic (11-0) at 7 tonight for the District 11 Class 4A championship at Bethlehem…
· Andre D. Williams
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Northern Lehigh, Hluschak halt Springfield ** Bulldogs’ all-purpose back scores two TDs to spark the 27-7 rout.
Northern Lehigh used a bruising defense and two first-half scoring plays by all-purpose star Ryan Hluschak to take all the pop out of Springfield (Montco) in a District 11 Class 2A subregional semifinal playoff game Saturday night in Slatington. It was the type of grinding and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Becahi survives scare form Easton
Bethlehem Catholic’s gritty effort against Easton was kind of like scraping for every penny in the piggy bank. Survival depended on what was found. The end to an undefeated season and rematch with Parkland also depended on Bethlehem Catholic’s ability to solve and score on an…
· Andre D. Williams
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Aaron no run-of-the-Mill kicker ** The Northern Lehigh placekicker has won 3 games this season.
Northern Lehigh coach Jim Tkach has been getting more “kicks” out of Colonial League games this season than ever before. That’s because junior kicker Aaron Mill has thrilled Tkach, his teammates and Bulldogs fans with his field goal accuracy. Even on rainy nights and muddy…
· Andre D. Williams
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Trojan defense, rushing attack combine to put a hurting on the Hurricanes
With its crunching tackles, the Parkland defense seemed to break the spirit of Liberty about as much as Trojans tailback Austin Scott’s elusive running did Friday night in Orefield. But it was only the same devastating double-dose that the Trojans have used to beat every…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hawks overcome sluggish start ** Becahi comes alive in the second quarter, dusts powerful St. Xavier.
Two possessions to open the game, two straight punts. That wasn’t Bethlehem Catholic football. Neither was recovering a fumble at the 12-yard line and then failing to score any points against Ohio powerhouse St. Xavier Saturday night at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium.…
· Andre D. Williams
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“Gifted’ Bethlehem Catholic enjoys unexpected romp ** Highly touted Glen Mills simply unravels, and it’s over by halftime.
Bethlehem Catholic got more gifts than it could have expected from Glen Mills on Homecoming Saturday. And most of them were huge in the Golden Hawks’ 46-22 rout at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. They started when defensive back Kyle Horton recovered a Glen Mills fumble…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland’s Scott headed to Penn State ** Trojans’ star tailback will announce his decision today.
Parkland tailback Austin Scott did not want to be hounded by bandwagon jumpers the rest of the season, especially since his heart has been set on playing for Penn State since his sophomore season. The senior Trojans star will make his choice official today by making an oral…
· Andre D. Williams
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Unanimous decision gives Abadia super batamweight championship ** Bout is stopped in 5th round after incidental headbutt.
Victoria Abadia, a 24-year-old professional boxer with plenty of potential, fought in the main event for some alphabet championship belt, but his relative cakewalk to victory hardly roused the crowd the way Easton welterweight Derrick Parks had Thursday night at the Days Inn and…
· Andre D. Williams
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A world title will be at stake for junior featherweights ** Karoly show will give Bushkill boxer Abadia a shot at the IBC belt.
Junior featherweight Victoria Abadia will get his second chance this year to prove that he can win a championship fight. But he’s going to have to take out a knockout puncher in Francisco Tejedor to accomplish his goal. The International Boxing Council junior featherweight title…
· Andre D. Williams
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Golden Hawks gamble and hit the jackpot ** Becahi goes for 2 with the game on the line in OT, beats Parkland.
The game was better than the hype. The ending was cliffhanging, leaving Bethlehem Catholic exhilarated and Parkland drowned in disappointment. It came down to The Decision. One or two points for victory or defeat. “It was in my mind all the time,” said Bethlehem Catholic…
· Andre D. Williams
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Sitting down together again
They are all back together in competition, old rivals, longtime friends, fans who want to engage in rah-rah chants, and coaches who want to outfox other coaches by any means possible. Most of them have been separated for four calender school years, leaving Allen deprived of a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Iverson’s dirty laundry doesn’t diminish his marketing abilities
You can look at his braids, his thuggish attitude, shake your head in disappointment over his allegedly throwing his wife out of the house naked, but don’t think that Philadelphia 76ers’ guard Allen Iverson has lost marketing appeal. What does it tell you when Reebok, the shoe…
· Andre D. Williams
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Victorious Holmes says he’s retired
For seemingly one final time, 29 years after his first professional bout, former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes proved before his chanting fans, closest friends, family and a pay-per-view audience, that his left jab was still slick as “butter” Saturday night at the Scope.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Holmes goes out a winner ** Tired former champion beats Butterbean by unanimous decision.
Former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes looked tired, a little sluggish, and very much like a boxer who should have been sitting at ringside instead of throwing jabs in the ring Saturday night at the Scope arena. And Holmes, 52, showed in his “retirement” bout against Eric…
· Andre D. Williams
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Mike Mittman to help call Holmes fight ** The local boxing analyst will join the national pay-per-view TV team. ** Holmes vs. Esch
Mike Mittman, a former Telley Award winner for excellence in broadcasting, has signed a contract to join the boxing commentary team of Al Bernstein and Dave Bontempo for the pay-per-view telecast of former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes’ final fight tonight at the Scope arena…
· Andre D. Williams
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An age (52) of reasons why Larry won’t lose ** Holmes is where the heart is, and the talent, and the experience…
Former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes, 52, who’s far from a sculpted piece of boxing art himself, has said that his scheduled 10-round bout against Eric “Butterbean” Esch Saturday night at the Scope in Norfolk, Va. will be his last fight. He had been looking for a promoter…
· Andre D. Williams
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There were easy ones ** Larry Holmes won 68 pro fights. Ten of those wins were easier to come by.
You can not win 68 of 74 fights and successfully defend the heavyweight championship 20 consecutive times without having a few easy fights. Former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes does not deny that. In fact, he believes that one of his easiest fights will come Saturday night…
· Andre D. Williams
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Ready for one last fight ** Boxing great at 52 takes aim — for the final time — at an odd target. ** Holmes vs. Butterbean: Saturday, July 27 at 9 p.m.
Former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes sat quietly in a folding chair, cooling down and perhaps reflecting on all the glory he has enjoyed over the last 29 years, as sweat poured down his face following a workout and sparring session in his humid training facility Friday in…
· Andre D. Williams
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It may be fake, but it’s entertaining ** The crowd enjoys the theatrics of World Extreme Wrestling. ** Notebook
Real or not? Not many of the fans crowded around the grandstands events area at Allentown’s Cedar Beach for the World Extreme Wrestling show Friday night seemed to care. The bottom line is that it was funny, at times thrilling, and best of all, free. That’s the way every event…
· Andre D. Williams
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ValleyDawgs have ability; what they need is stability
The financial stability was there all season. The emotional stability never was. The mixture was a bad combination for the Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs, one that led to disgruntlement within the organization, failure on the basketball court, and ultimately, a disappointing finish to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Two veteran ValleyDawgs want Dawkins promoted ** Fields, Hightower lobby for their coach to become GM as well.
Darryl Dawkins has been a professional basketball player and head coach, and now some of the Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs hope he is promoted one more level. Veterans Ronnie Fields and Cory Hightower, who helped the team win the franchise’s first United States Basketball League…
· Andre D. Williams
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Nothstein masters mile but not the Madison ** Youngsters Lea and Wamsley excel at Marty’s homecoming.
A bruised left leg, hip and sore butt suffered during a fall in a road race in St. Paul, Minn., did not slow Olympic sprint champion Marty Nothstein in his homecoming Friday night at the Lehigh Valley Velodrome. No, the man nicknamed “The Blade” was aggressive and blazing as…
· Andre D. Williams
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In fight for survival, ValleyDawgs say they’re winning
Darryl Dawkins, who has awed sports fans throughout the Lehigh Valley since he arrived in the spring of 1999 as head coach of the Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs, isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. He lives in the Valley; his wife is from here. He and assistant coach Rick Nash have…
· Andre D. Williams
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A roundabout round-by-round for Tyson-Lewis
The rumble is on. The raging bull that is Mike Tyson is fighting the heavyweight champion with the glass jaw, Lennox Lewis, late tonight at The Pyramid in Memphis, Tenn. No heavyweight championship bout has had this much hype since Tyson and Evander Holyfield went “tooth-to-ear”…
· Andre D. Williams
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Tall order for Kareem ** Coaching in the USBL is an exercise in humility for the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.
The intense look was still there, though occasionally broken with a quick smile. Then, back to focusing, teaching, going over in his mind during a short practice Wednesday evening at Stabler Arena what it is he needs to do to turn the Oklahoma Storm into a winner. It may be the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Holmes sees Tyson beating Lewis ** The former champ likes Iron Mike’s chances against the reigning champ.
Lennox Lewis is just four days away from defending his World Boxing Council and International Boxing Federation heavyweight championship titles against the one man former heavyweight champ Larry Holmes believes Lewis is probably scared to fight. That man is the loose cannon that…
· Andre D. Williams
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Holyfield’s pummeling of Rahman shows he’s still a contender ** Former champ wants the winner of Saturday’s Tyson-Lewis fight.
Forget about the rocking chair that some people might have been thinking about as a goodbye gift to Evander Holyfield. “I’m going to be here a long time,” Holyfield said following his lopsided victory over Hasim Rahman in a heavyweight elimination bout Saturday night at the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Holyfield wins technical decision; head butt halts Rahman ** Holyfield looks like boxer of old. Fight is stopped in 8th round.
Evander Holyfield used nothing but his fists, padded with boxing gloves. But it seemed like the former four-time heavyweight champion was using a baseball bat against another former heavyweight champion, Hasim Rahman, Saturday night before a crowd of 9,831 at the Boardwalk Hall.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Scipio is a trailblazer for District 11 runners
The future fast lanes of District 11 athletes may have been paved by Bethlehem Catholic’s Eddie Scipio and his supporting cast of Golden Hawks sprinters in the PIAA Track and Field Championships last weekend at Shippensburg University. Scipio, a senior three-sport star, anchored…
· Andre D. Williams
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Becahi’s Schwab medals in vault ** He is one of several area athletes to do well in Day 1 of PIAA meet. ** PIAA Track and Field Championships
Bethlehem Catholic pole vaulter Neil Schwab thought he was going to get an energy boost from a power bar he ate during competition in the Class 2A portion of the event in the PIAA Track and Field Championships Friday at Shippensburg University. Instead, the junior got sick to…
· Andre D. Williams
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District 11 competitors strive to finish ahead of pack
Athletes in The Morning Call’s circulation area from District 11 and District 3 who have legitimate shots of winning medals in the PIAA Track and Field Championships at Shippensburg University today and Saturday probably spent most of Thursday reflecting on what they need to do…
· Andre D. Williams
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JUMPING SHIPP ** Saucon’s Casie Williams has her eyes on three prizes – all in the jumping events.
Saucon Valley’s Casie Williams is an all-around athlete with an odd love for fast food at McDonald’s. She loves to order large french fries, toss them in a bag, heavily salt them, shake up the bag and um … um … get her eats. “I go there a couple times on the weekend, sometimes…
· Andre D. Williams
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Scipio leads Becahi, District 11 into states ** The Golden Hawks have a good shot at PIAA gold.
Eddie Scipio, the fastest of the Bethlehem Catholic High sprinters, enthusiastically raised his voice after winning his fourth gold medal in the District 11 Class 2A championships a week ago and proclaimed, “We’re on the map in track and field.” Not just as a dot, either. Four…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Dawgs fail at foul line, fall to Dodge City in shootout ** Three missed foul shots in final 8.3 seconds result in a 130-127 loss in 2 OTs.
Just about any style of guard the Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs could ask for was in uniform for their United States Basketball League game against the Dodge City Legend Sunday night at Stabler Arena. They ranged in size from 5-10 to 6-7. What the ‘Dawgs didn’t have was somebody in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Joy of winning districts justifies the hard work
They made winning their races look as easy as blowing out candles on a cake. Congratulations, however, for these District 11 track and field champions, were awarded in other ways. First, with the cheers of parents, coaches, teammates, and of course, admiring fans. Then with…
· Andre D. Williams
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Scipio wins four gold medals ** Becahi sprinter wins 100 and 200, anchors 400 and 1,600 relays.
A lot has been expected of Bethlehem Catholic three-sport star Eddie Scipio this track season. So far, the senior has handled the pressure well. That was again the case in the District 11 Class 2A track and field championships Thursday at Blue Mountain High. Scipio, appearing…
· Andre D. Williams
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A promise to Mom ** Before Sandra Riley died on March 11, her son Lee promised he’d win a gold medal at states. He hopes it will come next year.
The promise made to win a state track and field championship in the 100-meter dash by Parkland High sprinter Lee Riley to his mother, Sandra, while she lay in a coma at Hershey Medical Center in March, is one the junior said he will stop at nothing to accomplish. His mother died…
· Andre D. Williams
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A year later, Eggleston, Crocus gain gold ** Liberty’s triple jumper had won silver last 2 years ** District 11 Class 3A Track & Field Championships
The gold medal seemed as if it might melt in Liberty senior Eric Eggleston’s hand, the way he kept looking at it, caressing it. For the last two years, he had left the District 11 Class 3A Track and Field Championships with a silver medal in the triple jump. All that changed…
· Andre D. Williams
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District 11 track ready to go ** The 3A meet will be held Wednesday, 2A on Thursday, at Blue Mtn.
Now it’s time to run faster, throw further, and jump higher as the District 11 Class 3A and 2A track and field championships draw closer. “You don’t need much to motivate the kids now,” said Easton coach Frank Messa. Indeed, they now must “just do it.’ Even those who have been…
· Andre D. Williams
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Gainey, Jefferson, Maxey spark ‘Dawgs’ rally ** Gainey’s passing, Jefferson’s board work, Maxey’s dunks finish off St. Louis, 106-100.
The United States Basketball League’s decision to hold games on Mother’s Day didn’t help the Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs at the Stabler Arena ticket window on Sunday. But, despite playing in front of only 712 fans, the ‘Dawgs (4-4) mustered up enough “Maxey” and execution in clutch…
· Andre D. Williams
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Williams, Erickson post big wins ** Saucon Valley’s Cassie Williams pulls off the biggest surprise. ** Colonial League Track & Field Championships
Winning the Colonial League track and field championship in the 1,600-meter run was basically a given for Southern Lehigh’s Tim Erickson before he even stepped onto the all-weather surface at Bangor Memorial Park Friday. Even with an injured right knee. But Erickson’s runaway…
· Andre D. Williams
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Who’s got what it takes to win a medal at PIAA Championships?
The answer to the most intriguing question of the scholastic track and field season, “Who has been dedicated enough to win a state title,” will be revealed over the next two weeks. For now, most people in District 11 know that Freedom junior Beth Crocus has a serious shot at…
· Andre D. Williams
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Erin Cadden hurdles to victory in MVC track championships ** Parkland senior wins gold in the 300 and sets a record in the 100.
Parkland senior Erin Cadden could not wait to exchange her track cleats for dancing shoes Tuesday following the Mountain Valley Conference track and field championships at Bethlehem Area School District Stadium. The anxiety seemed reasonable, considering that Cadden had…
· Andre D. Williams
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ValleyDawgs thump Brooklyn’s Kings, 126-104 ** Despite some ragged play, Dawkins says he isn’t worried just yet.
The sluggishness is still there, otherwise a couple of Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs players would not have botched dunks on two-on-none breaks. “It was just missed concentration, trying to dunk it hard, that’s all,” said ‘Dawgs swingman Cory Hightower. Though comical, neither the…
· Andre D. Williams
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‘Dawgs bare their teeth, win home opener
They were searching for answers, looking for a win, and despite periods of sloppiness, the defending United States Basketball League champion Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs achieved their goal. Being pretty had won them nothing in three previous games, so in their home opener the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Liberty’s McCullough is an ideal idol ** A star in both football and track, the Hurricanes standout is also cooperative and charismatic.
He is the idol of so many kids in the South Side of Bethlehem. They want to go to Liberty High and become standout athletes just like him. He is a product of the Bethlehem Saints, the youth program where he gained his early football stripes as a small, but fast and elusive…
· Andre D. Williams
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Freedom’s Crocus ready to blossom again in the javelin
A handful of the top athletes in District 11 have realistic shots at winning PIAA track and field gold medals. To actually accomplish the task, an athlete must first check any case of bad nerves at the front gate of Seth Grove Stadium at Shippensburg University over Memorial Day…
· Andre D. Williams
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Things are scrambled for ValleyDawgs ** Nothing is set as they open the home season tonight vs. Brevard.
The Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs are starting to look more like the “Breakfast Club” with the way their roster has been scrambled the last two weeks. No lineup has worked. No point guard has impressed coach Darryl Dawkins. No big man outside of 6-9 shot-blocker/rebounding horse…
· Andre D. Williams
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Becahi had a great time at the Penn Relays
Bethlehem Catholic’s Eddie Scipio, Fred Rice, Brandon Carter and Maurice Simmons have memories from the 108th Penn Relays they will be able to savor the rest of their lives. And for good reason. They ran faster than any team in The Morning Call’s circulation area has ever run in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh’s Dugan tops Penn Relays in javelin
Outside of the Franklin Field stadium where a record-crowd of 50,827 cheered, clapped and waved Jamaican and American flags on Saturday, Lehigh University’s Patrick Dugan and Lafayette College’s Ethan Blose captured a piece of Penn Relays glory in the javelin event. Dugan’s…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lattimore wins thrice, leads Red Rover girls over Trojans ** Easton girls and Parkland boys win to claim MVC Valley titles.
Crossing the finish line first is something Easton junior Danielle Lattimore has gotten used to this spring. She has, after all, smoked just about every other top female sprinter in District 11. Nothing changed Tuesday at Parkland High, even though windy conditions prevented…
· Andre D. Williams
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Quiet, steady Lesko earns a spot with the ‘Dawgs ** The Muhlenberg All-American was their 7th-round draft choice.
Off to the side, Mark Lesko stood. Other players were loafing around, some were showboat dunking, throwing the ball off the back wall inside the Lehigh Carbon Community College gymnasium, catching it and then jamming. Others were swishing jumpers from way out. But some of those…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton’s Williams trying to set school records, get back to states
While others are posting times in sprint and distance events that are impressive, none of them has what Easton High senior D.J. Williams has going for himself. Williams, unlike the rest, was a District 11 and PIAA track and field title contender in the long jump before the…
· Andre D. Williams
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“Lights-out’ puncher to rumble Thursday ** Sean Carrington, a rising Philly heavyweight, will be part of Karoly fight card.
A heavyweight from Philadelphia, who has “lights-out” punching power, will return to the Days Inn & Conference Center in South Whitehall Township on Thursday. Sean Carrington has scored knockouts in his only two professional fights, both in the first round. He forced a stoppage…
· Andre D. Williams
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ValleyDawgs make Manga No. 1 ** The center out of Seton Hall is the team’s top pick in the USBL draft.
You have to know that the United States Basketball League is all about giving unsuspecting players a chance to play professionally when a former towel boy is drafted by the defending league champion. Good thing it was in the seventh round, 61st pick overall that the Pennsylvania…
· Andre D. Williams
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When exhilaration dissolves into humiliation
Victory, the best ever in the history of the University of Maryland men’s basketball program, had just been accomplished. An NCAA championship-game win over Indiana had finalized a 32-4 season on April Fool’s Day. What followed was disheartening to me and many other Maryland…
· Andre D. Williams
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ESU’s Juwan Justice shows he has a lot left at the ValleyDawgs’ tryout
Some players have shown up at the Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs tryout camps the last two weeks with a support team which has included girlfriends, wives and family members. Juwan Justice, a 6-4 guard from East Stroudsburg University, has traveled to Lehigh Carbon Community College…
· Andre D. Williams
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Mayorga makes good on prediction he’d stop Lewis ** He wins the WBA welterweight title with a 5th-round TKO.
The right hand of challenger Ricardo “El Matador” Mayorga kept landing, backing up and often doing damage to Andrew “Six Heads” Lewis. Then came the furious conclusion. Mayorga came with everything in his arsenal and flattened Lewis to score a technical knockout at 1 minute, 8…
· Andre D. Williams
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Will “Six Heads’ be both the fighter and the crowd size? ** Ticket sales have been slow for Saturday’s Lewis-Mayorga bout.
Welterweight champion Andrew “Six Heads” Lewis sat at Wednesday’s press conference at the Sovereign Center and listened as both the challenger and the challenger’s manager predicted that Lewis is going to get knocked out. Lewis just smiled, his teeth glistening like the diamonds…
· Andre D. Williams
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Custis is returning to the ‘Dawgs ** Reid, Hightower, Field and Hyatt also return to the fold.
The telephone at the Pennsylvania VallyDawgs headquarters in Easton rang more often than usual Tuesday, but not all the calls were from people wondering if head coach Darryl Dawkins was really serious about wanting to coach at Lehigh University. Inquiring minds, mostly those of…
· Andre D. Williams
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Dawkins interested in LU opening ** The ValleyDawgs boss says he can put the Engineers “way up on the charts.’
The marketing department at Lehigh University would probably have some fun promoting the men’s basketball program, perhaps billing it as “chocolate delight,” if the man formerly known as “Chocolate Thunder” is hired as the school’s next head coach. Don’t laugh. This is serious.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Mbom lashes out at Lehigh ** Senior forward questions the process that led to coach’s firing.
His university asked him to stand out more than he does on the basketball court, to project what Lehigh is about in an astute and more vocal way than most student athletes. Bobby Mbom did that time and again, speaking to national scholars entering the school, serving on the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh should think about hiring an African-American coach
It’s time for Lehigh University to consider making a change in philosophy and make history by hiring its first African-American head men’s basketball coach and just the second ever in the Patriot League. Maybe Lehigh search committee chairman Glenn Hofmann should first look at…
· Andre D. Williams
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ValleyDawgs sign Ocampo, a 6-8 Filipino player ** He is believed to be first from Phillipines to play pro ball in U.S.
Darryl Dawkins was treated like royalty during his visit, along with his Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs bosses, to the Philippines three years ago. He loved the food and the environment. He made jokes and signed tons of autographs. Dawkins even worked a few basketball clinics. Now,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Holmes out of retirement again for No. 75 ** The 52-year-old will fight overweight Butterbean in June.
You can not listen to former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes’ talk, especially when he says, “I’m retired” because he always unretires. Even though he’s 52. Even though his legacy was established two decades ago. The bottom line is that Holmes does not like being stuck on 74…
· Andre D. Williams
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Two Lafayette players hit the road in search of playing time
The closest highway is a short walk from College Hill in Easton, and Lafayette College coach Fran O’Hanlon doesn’t mind telling any player disgruntled with his role in to take that highway — Route 22 — and not worry about coming back. Simply put, it’s O’Hanlon’s way or the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Penn forces an Ivy playoff ** The Quakers beat Princeton to create a three-way tie with Yale for the title.
This was for Ivy League bragging rights and the chance to make history. Shooting-wise, it was not a classic. Too many clanks off the rim early on to call the regular-season finale between Penn and Princeton that Tuesday night before an emotionally intoxicated crowd of 8,700-plus…
· Andre D. Williams
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Penn forces an Ivy playoff ** The Quakers beat Princeton to create a 3-way tie with Yale for the title.
This was for Ivy League rank and the chance to make history, a classic in the making. Shooting-wise, though, it was not a classic. There were too many clanks off the rim early on to call the regular-season finale between Penn and Princeton a classic. But that didn’t stop the…
· Andre D. Williams
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It’ll be a frenzy at the Palestra for Penn-Princeton
The verbal outbursts from the Scream I and II movies will compare little to the noise level inside the University of Pennsylvania’s Palestra at 8 tonight in the most important game of the Ivy League season. “It’s going to be very, very, very packed,” said Carla Shultzberg,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Reading lands two more title fights ** Don King says he loves the city and slates WBA and IBF bouts.
Something besides money made legendary boxing promoter Don King light up like the glamorous lights of Las Vegas Thursday when he visited the Canal Street Pub and Restaurant. And everybody knows that casinos are big in the city that never sleeps. Reading does not have any casinos…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh finishes regular season with a victory ** The Engineers finally put it together, beating Bucknell, 75-64.
For one play in the first half, the Lehigh Engineers looked more like the Harlem Globetrotters than the last place team in the Patriot League Sunday afternoon at Stabler Arena. That’s because it was capped off by a deft passing sequence of Alex Jensen to Scott Taylor to Alan…
· Andre D. Williams
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No sure bets for March Madness among Big 5 teams
The guessing game of who’s in, who’s out, and who needs to do what to get into the good graces of the NCAA Tournament Selection Committee has heated up as college basketball enters its final two weeks of the regular season. Locally, Lafayette (13-12) and Lehigh (4-21) can only…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hopkins on Jones: “He’d better box me, or he’s a hypocrite’ ** Hopkins’ stock rises after Saturday’s defense of his titles.
“Bark, bark, bark.” That’s all undisputed middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins says he hears from Roy Jones Jr., mostly from far away. When will Hopkins get a chance to pound Jones, as he did Carl Daniels in successfully defending the middleweight title a record 15th…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hopkins defends his middleweight titles ** His opponent, Carl Daniels, quits after 10 rounds in Reading.
Undisputed middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins talked a good fight and even tried to talk Carl Daniels out of fighting him three days before the two met for Hopkins’ WBC, WBA and IBF belts Saturday night at the Sovereign Center. But Daniels showed up and took the champion’s…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh Valley shows live up to the hype
Wouldn’t it be nice if a boxing match could again be promoted as a “Rumble in the Jungle,” and then live up to its billing? How about a pay-per-view refund if the bout lasted fewer than five rounds or were 12 rounds of drawn-out junk? Is this too much to ask? Yes, when it comes…
· Andre D. Williams
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Challenger Daniels “soft,’ puffs Hopkins
Marshmallows will be the post-fight snack for the loser of the bout between undisputed middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins and Carl Daniels Saturday night at the Sovereign Center. Both have vowed to make the other eat them. But it was not Daniels (46-3-1, 30 KO’s), the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Bragging rights at stake tonight for Penn in a Big 5 matchup with La Salle
The noise level is more boisterous and the atmosphere more lively at the University of Pennsylvania’s Palestra than at any other college gymnasium in Philadelphia, especially in matchups between Big 5 teams. “This is a great place to play when it is filled,” Penn junior Ugonna…
· Andre D. Williams
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There’ll be fast fists fighting for a championship ** Thursday’s card at Days Inn will feature a featherweight title fight.
No ear biting, no crying, no hugging. Basically, nothing that you might have seen in the past in a Mike Tyson or Lennox Lewis heavyweight mess-up. No, club-style professional boxers can’t afford to play mind games — just throw on the gloves, maybe draw some blood. It helps when…
· Andre D. Williams
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Middleweight champion says he won’t give up ** Bernard Hopkins will defend his title Feb. 2 in Reading.
On the way to his press conference in this city, Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins ran into a major delay because of a flat tire on his burgundy-with-gold-trimmings limousine. The Philadelphia native, once considered the best pound-for-pound boxer in the world, has had his share…
· Andre D. Williams
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Mentesana mad about Lehigh’s lack of early effort in loss **Holy Cross gets too many easy points in 72-66 win.
“Yo, get over here,” yelled the well-dressed man with the salt-and-pepper hair on a snowy Saturday afternoon. Lehigh was down five at home and looking very much like a team that was about to drift even further away from Holy Cross in a Patriot League matchup. Then, Lehigh coach…
· Andre D. Williams
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“Billy Mac’ is back in basketball ** Billy McCaffrey is now an assistant coach at St. Bonaventure.
Now the man with the baby face looks back at those snowy days in Whitehall when his dreams ran wild along with his older brother, NFL star Eddie McCaffrey of the Denver Broncos. But unlike “Easy Ed,” the now 29-year-old Billy McCaffrey, often thought about playing pro basketball…
· Andre D. Williams
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Leopards fall short at Bucknell, 65-64 ** Shot by Lafayette’s Burke and a follow by Guy both fall short in the final seconds.
At times, the Patriot League opener between Lafayette and Bucknell seemed to be a battle of who could play the ugliest Wednesday night at Davis Gymnasium. There were hard falls, sloppy handling of the ball, and so many stretches where neither team seemed to know what to do with…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lehigh, Lafayette pinning hopes on league play
Now that the Patriot League games are set to begin, the Lehigh and Lafayette men’s teams believe they will triumph more often than fail the rest of January and February. And March, if one is still alive following the league tournament. Never mind the previous 13 games for Lehigh…
· Andre D. Williams
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Dawkins to be part of All-Star Weekend
Darryl Dawkins walked into Larry Holmes’ business office on Wednesday to visit his good friend, the ex-heavyweight champion, and he ended up receiving the most stunning phone call of his post-playing career. Angel East, Holmes’ secretary, told Dawkins that somebody from the NBA…
· Andre D. Williams
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Borda bolsters Becahi ** He’s turned his personal problems into positively affecting the basketball team.
Mark Borda has turned into pure adrenaline, taking pretty much what he wants on the hardwood in all but one game for Bethlehem Catholic this season. It’s helping the senior make amends for a football season that was cut short because of a night of drinking., which was in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton comes up big when it counts ** The Red Rovers put it all together in a 51-41 MVC win over Freedom.
Easton had to prove to itself, and to opponents around the Mountain Valley Conference, that it could win close games by making all the key plays. So what if it was on the road? And against a Freedom team that had won three in a row for the school’s best start since 1981? A year…
· Andre D. Williams
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Holmes pining for fight in Trenton ** If he is to make a comeback, he would like to make it in Trenton, where his career began in 1973. All he needs is an opponent, a date, and $200,000.
Michael Jordan has a ways to go before he catches up to Larry Holmes. His former Airness would have to retire and unretire from the NBA at least two more times. And Jordan, now a Washington Wizard sidelined with a sore right knee, would have to play into his 50s. “I think he…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lafayette tough on Miami, Penn St. in pair of close losses
Lafayette has been close. Really close to Miami of the Big East in the second half on Saturday. The Leopards also led Penn State by 13 points in the first half last Wednesday. The two road games ended in defeats, 75-66 to Penn State and 79-69 to Miami. Lafayette beat Albany,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Burgio thankful to be playing this Thanksgiving ** The Easton runner, who has 16 TDs, missed last year’s game with injury.
Easton senior tailback Sean Burgio is entering another Thanksgiving Day with his dinner plans on hold. But he’s not all that concerned with keeping his grandparents on his mother’s side in limbo, because they live in Phillipsburg, which is Easton’s annual Turkey Day football…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton focused for Becahi game ** Rovers are all business at practice on the eve of the district championship.
Dust blew off the ripped-up grass field and over the hills as the sun began to set near the close of a businesslike Easton High football practice Thursday evening. There was no smacking of the helmets, no banging up against each other as the Red Rover players jogged off the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Preseason Patriot ranking has Burke, Leopards seeking respect ** Coaches, media say Lafayette will finish seventh. The Leopards beg to differ.
Opening the basketball season with opponents his team would be favored to beat is not something that entices Lafayette coach Fran O’Hanlon, even if that decision ultimately leads to the Leopards getting blown out. After opening its season at Albany of the lightly-regarded…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton trips Parkland ** The Red Rovers’ defense stops a Trojans drive in the final seconds for the 14-13 win.
Sean Burgio ran the ball up the middle often, cherishing every yard he gained and sucking up every jolting hit to carry the ball another down. He had become Easton’s best offensive option, but Burgio was rendered to watching from the sidelines as the drive that would decide the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Arizona makes a statement with win over No. 2 Maryland ** Unranked and probably underrated, the Wildcats outhustle the Terrapins.
It was madness inside Madison Square Garden between two of last season’s Final Four participants — No. 2 Maryland and mistakenly unranked Arizona. The pollsters do overlook sleepers, if defending national runner-up Arizona can be called that. Sleep on them if you will. Maryland…
· Andre D. Williams
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Becahi, Easton in district title race** The Golden Hawks are after 3rd straight 4A crown. Easton wants revenge.
Around this time of the football season, some high school coaches warn their players not to say the wrong things, to be careful not to just speak their minds and fuel the rage in their opponents. Not so at Bethlehem Catholic, where shrewd coach Bob Stem has his Golden Hawks…
· Andre D. Williams
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College season begins tonight ** The Coaches vs. Cancer tourney features three highly ranked teams.
The Maryland Terrapins and the Florida Gators, ranked No. 2 and No. 6 in the preseason Associated Press poll, are looking to get off to perfect starts. Unranked Arizona, the defending national runner-up will be looking to gain confidence with at least five freshmen playing…
· Andre D. Williams
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Saint Joseph’s and Xavier heavy favorites in A-10 ** The schools are expected to win their divisions, with Temple in hot pursuit.
The Atlantic 10 Conference has seven new coaches and a new member from Richmond. But the best thing the upgraded 12-team, realigned conference has is two nationally ranked programs in Saint Joseph’s and Temple. And the two rival Philadelphia schools have two rival Philadelphia…
· Andre D. Williams
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Saint Joe’s scores with much hailed Jameer Nelson ** Family, school and friends are rooting for the standout from Chester.
Jameer Nelson’s celebrity status extended well past the Saint Joseph’s University campus before he even made his first collegiate basket last Nov. 17. He didn’t even need to win the Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year award or play on last summer’s gold medal-winning USA Junior…
· Andre D. Williams
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KU’s Prosser aims to set a record ** Despite injuries, “Motrin Man’ has amassed 2,259 career yards and counting.
Yorel Prosser has had so many injuries in his four-year football career at Kutztown that his teammates figured out a nickname that best describes his gridiron experiences. “They call me Motrin Man,” said Prosser, who has had ankle, knee, shoulder and back injuries that have…
· Andre D. Williams
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Leopards need to get healthy, and then they could get hot ** The promise on College Hill needs time to heal, mature and heat up.
The guessing game doesn’t work on College Hill. So don’t ask Lafayette men’s basketball coach Fran O’Hanlon to pick a number of games he might win in the 2001-02 season. He can’t do it. He doesn’t want to do it. Besides, a fair prognostication cannot be made now. The Leopards…
· Andre D. Williams
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Flowers has blossomed as quarterback for Bears ** When Josh Warren was injured, the redshirt freshman stepped right in.
The major topic of discussion when Kutztown redshirt freshman Rob Flowers gets together with his cousins during the holidays is football. They have so much to share since most of them play or have played college football in the past. Most of them, though, didn’t have to play…
· Andre D. Williams
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Burke is ready for his senior season on College Hill ** The ECAC also honored Lafayette’s co-captain for his return from a serious injury.
It was the 11th day of December last year, a trial-filled day that Lafayette senior guard Brian Burke couldn’t stop thinking about as he stood at the podium accepting the ECAC Award of Valor on Oct. 2 in Hyannis, Mass. Stories of players returning to play Division I basketball…
· Andre D. Williams
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Field of battle has dual meaning ** ESU coach Douds is concerned about his son Doug, a Marine pilot.
Discussions of football and war have been persistent at the house of East Stroudsburg University coach Denny Douds. Especially this week. America is striking back for the terrorists attacks of Sept. 11 and Douds and his coaching staff are preparing the Warriors for a key…
· Andre D. Williams
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KU’s Daecher uses smarts on, off field ** Academic All-American is the Bears’ defensive air traffic controller.
He’s a co-captain on the field, a bookworm off it. Maintaining a balance between athletics and academics is something Kutztown senior linebacker Alex Daecher has not had a problem with since entering college five years ago as a freshman. He’s been successful at both, leading…
· Andre D. Williams
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Pinchek enjoys spot as a leader ** He has taken over as the lead running back for Parkland with the injury to star Austin Scott.
“Go, Nick, go.” That’s a cheer Parkland junior Nick Pinchek has waited two years to hear more regularly than just a few times a game when he would be given token handoffs. No, the game plan has changed at Parkland. Pinchek is now a key part of the game plan, the running back on…
· Andre D. Williams
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Her confidence bounds with her abilities ** Eighth-grader Brianna Broyles of Allentown is a dashing 5-footer who is on the fast track to success as a runner.
The atmosphere at Madison Square Garden can be overwhelming for any first-time visitor. You might expect it to be especially so for a 10-year-old from Allentown who has never competed outside Pennsylvania. But to Brianna Broyles, an eighth grader at St. Francis of Assisi School…
· Andre D. Williams
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Pressure seems to be on Parkland, Melosky ** There’s high expectations for Trojans, despite a new coach and the loss of QB Lane to basketball.
New Parkland head football coach Rob Melosky turned to the immaculate building over the hills from the practice field 13 days ago, raised his arms and the enthusiasm in his voice rose. He has the job, the facilities, the program that the other Mountain Valley Conference teams…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton’s Holloway packs 150 pounds of heart and power **The defensive back’s desire on the football field is realized when he delivers his first hit.
Allen Holloway doesn’t look that tough on the football field. He’s just 5-10, 150 pounds. But Easton’s senior free safety had opposing offensive players wondering last season, “Did you catch that number?” Holloway was everywhere, making plays, sticking hard. “He has some real…
· Andre D. Williams
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Ex-Dieruff star Robinson trying to get life in order ** 14 months after serving time for drugs, he helps win a tourney, talks of a future.
Calvin Robinson Jr. saw the opening and took advantage quickly, cheers almost guiding him as he dribbled toward the basket at Allentown’s Roosevelt Park two Sundays ago. It had been four years since he had people rooting for him so loudly. But with the game clock winding down in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Torch being passed in adult summer basketball
News that the Black Heritage Tournament and Festival would not be contested this summer stunned Chuck Rockmore a month ago. Not long after hearing that bad news, Rockmore heard speculation that the Stellar Construction adult tournament, widely considered the granddaddy of…
· Andre D. Williams
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Quiet man Cheeks set to make noise in Portland ** Long-time Sixers player and assistant has quite a challenge in his first NBA head coaching job.
The gymnasium at the Philadelphia 76ers’ draft headquarters at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic College had nearly emptied Wednesday night/Thursday morning when the phone rang around 12:20 a.m., drawing immediate attention. Everyone knew it was Maurice Cheeks calling. It…
· Andre D. Williams
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Despite success, Sixers are facing uncertain future
A big cloud of uncertainty hovers over the Philadelphia 76ers organization. And it has nothing to do with whom they will choose in the NBA draft, June 27. The most pressing matters are whether coach Larry Brown will return for a fifth season and whether team president Pat Croce…
· Andre D. Williams
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This was a team that wouldn’t quit
The lights were dim, the court had been taken up and all the floor seats removed inside the First Union Center Saturday afternoon, less than 24 hours after the Philadelphia 76ers’ dreams of winning the NBA title were shattered by the Los Angeles Lakers. Light music played in the…
· Andre D. Williams
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The Fat Lady is getting ready to sing ** The Sixers, hobbling and trying to catch their breath, face a win-or-else game tonight vs. the powerful Lakers.
The Fat Lady has started to get dressed and may sing tonight, a goodbye tune that the Philadelphia 76ers do not want to hear. The Sixers still have some fight left, still want to get a victory at home, and then take their injured and ragged bodies back to Los Angeles to try and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Bad noose: Lakers put stranglehold on Sixers ** NBA Finals 2001 ** Game IV: Lakers 100 Sixers 86
As Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant continued to destroy them with uncontainable power and finesse, and as open 3-pointers fell through, all the Philadelphia 76ers could hope for was a break, some sort of slip up by the Los Angeles Lakers. But the Sixers needed to find the rim…
· Andre D. Williams
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Lakers’ stranglehold bad noose for Sixers ** NBA Finals 2001 ** GAME IV: Lakers 100 Sixers 86
As Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant continued to shake them up with an uncontrollable power and finesse game, and as open 3-pointers fell through, all the Philadelphia 76ers could seemingly hope for was a break, any slip up by the Los Angeles Lakers. But the Sixers needed to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Sixers need Hill to step up ** The power forward has been all but invisible in the first three games against the Lakers.
The NBA Finals have been everything Philadelphia 76ers power forward Tyrone Hill figured they would be, with the exception of Hill himself, who has not been a pretty sight. Like everyone else, he has begun to wonder where he’s been in the first three games of the series. He…
· Andre D. Williams
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Injured Lynch deems himself ready for Game 4 ** Despite a broken foot of his own, he wants to help out his already-injured Sixers teammates.
George Lynch is just as gritty as his Philadelphia 76ers teammates Eric Snow, Allen Iverson and Aaron McKie, all of whom could legitimately receive a doctor’s note to take the rest of the month off from work. Lynch, who fractured his left foot in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference…
· Andre D. Williams
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Deke to Shaq: Take it up on the court ** Mutombo ready to take it to O’Neal after O’Neal, who fould out of Game 3, calls Mutombo a flopper and questions manhood.
Two towering men are now enraged with each other, both vowing to settle their disputes on the court in Game 4 of the NBA Finals Wednesday night at the First Union Center. Too much lip-bashing and lips-busted-from-elbows have gone on, and now centers Dikembe Mutombo of the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Shaq and Kobe are L.A. story in Game 3
A fan was brutally wobbled, bloodied and floored as the buzzer sounded. Away from the melee in the stands, the Philadelphia 76ers probably felt like they had been knocked out, but not by Shaquille O’Neal or Kobe Bryant, the two Los Angeles Lakers players known for delivering…
· Andre D. Williams
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Family tragedy puts what is sad in proper perspective
Don’t feel sad about the Philadelphia 76ers losing Game 2 of the NBA Finals to the Los Angeles Lakers. You want to know what sadness is? It’s getting a phone call on your cell phone minutes before the start of a Game 2, and hearing that your kid sister had died in a fire.…
· Andre D. Williams
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A match that ignited success ** Marriage between 76ers, Mutombo has put both where they wanted to be.
The Philadelphia 76ers had the best record in the NBA — 41-14 — when coach Larry Brown and general manager Billy King looked into their crystal ball and saw the menacing prospect of facing 7-1, 330-pound Shaquille O’Neal of the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals. Who was going…
· Andre D. Williams
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No-quit Sixers put an end to sweep talk
Allen Iverson, NBA MVP, came to showtime, and was the biggest star in a Staples Center assemblage that included Oscar and Grammy winners. He made big shots early, performed heroically in overtime, and then exuberantly danced off the court, drenched with sweat and in need of a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Iverson’s time has arrived ** For five years, he has awaited this opportunity
Allen Iverson’s arms are not getting tired from hoisting postseason trophies in the air. There’s still one more he’d like to kiss and hold. Whether he’ll get to depends on whether David, which is the Philadelphia 76ers, can slay Goliath, Sixers coach Larry Brown’s…
· Andre D. Williams
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Sixers bury the Bucks ** Iverson cans 44 to help put Philly in NBA Finals
As guaranteed by center Dikembe Mutombo, the Philadelphia 76ers are going to the NBA Finals in a true East versus West matchup. Can Hollywood handle them? The Milwaukee Bucks, with All-Star guard Ray Allen aching from a hard fall in the third quarter, couldn’t, because they…
· Andre D. Williams
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Sixers bury the Bucks ** Iverson cans 44 to help put Philly in NBA Finals
As guaranteed by center Dikembe Mutombo, the Philadelphia 76ers are going to the NBA Finals in a true East versus West matchup. Can the Los Angeles Lakers handle them? The Milwaukee Bucks, with All-Star guard Ray Allen aching from a hard fall in the third quarter, sure couldn’t,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Expect the Sixers to beat the Bucks, and to do it with heart
Let’s get my prediction out of the way: Philadelphia will win. Not just because the 76ers’ Dikembe Mutombo and Allen Iverson both said they are going to beat the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 7 tonight at the First Union Center to clinch the Eastern Conference Finals. No, I just…
· Andre D. Williams
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Another climax or Sixers’ final act? ** Another Game 7, but Dikembe Mutombo says the season will be continued.
The Los Angeles Lakers don’t know it yet, but they will be playing the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA Finals. Sixers center Dikembe Mutombo guarantees it. And Mutombo, the league’s Defensive Player of the Year, has been right with all his other postseason predictions this year.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Inspiration and perspiration ** Philadelphia’s fuel gauge reads almost empty, but Sixers need only one more win to get re-energized. ** Eastern Conference Finals
Eric Snow looked up at the giant man walking into the press room at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Thursday, and the Philadelphia 76ers guard asked, “Am I a warrior?” “Yeah, you are Willis Reed Jr.,” said Sixers center Dikembe Mutombo. Relive the moment to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Down by a game and with everybody…
Down by a game and with everybody wondering how effective league MVP Allen Iverson would be in his return from injury, the Philadelphia 76ers blinked little and took out the Milwaukee Bucks. Some may say the Bucks’ Ray Allen tried to take out Iverson with an elbow to the mouth…
· Andre D. Williams
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Sixers pull off postseason sweep ** Larry Brown wins NBA Coach of the Year as Philadelphia becomes the first team to win all four of the league’s major awards.
One of the greatest tributes Philadelphia 76ers coach Larry Brown had ever received in his 18-year NBA coaching career had already been given when he accepted the Red Auerbach Trophy as the NBA’s Coach of the Year Wednesday afternoon. Just as Brown was about to step away from…
· Andre D. Williams
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As Sixers march on, Claxton enjoys ride ** The rookie guard — injured all season — has remained on the sidelines, cheering and learning.
Cheerleading is not something Craig “Speedy” Claxton figured he’d be doing a lot of this season after he was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers with the 20th overall pick in last June’s NBA draft. But there he was Sunday night, his heart pumping just as hard as those of the 10…
· Andre D. Williams
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A huge load rests on Iverson’s shoulders
Nobody can possibly know all that’s going on inside Allen Iverson’s head as the clock ticks down to the first Game 7 playoff game of his five-year career. Winning is obviously his main concern, but he has to have so many other things swirling around. His veins are probably…
· Andre D. Williams
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New crop of NBA superstars making their presence felt
No one could possibly be ready for the curtain to fall on the NBA Playoffs. The show has been too spectacular, from Allen Iverson and Vince Carter to Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant, to all the rest of the young guns who are today’s stars. You know the other names. They’re all…
· Andre D. Williams
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Sixers need to go for Indy’s jugular ** In two of three games, Philly has blown big leads against the Pacers.
Allen Iverson showed up in military fatigues for the elimination playoff game against the Indiana Pacers last year. That was Game 6 of the Eastern Conference semifinals in Philadelphia, and the Sixers lost 106-90. Tonight, Iverson and the Sixers stand a solid chance in Game 4 of…
· Andre D. Williams
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On the defensive, Mutombo honored for the fourth time ** Sixers center gets 48 of 123 votes in balloting for Defensive Player of the Year.
He used to wag his finger in a scolding motion after blocking shots, until NBA officials made him stop taunting opponents. But center Dikembe Mutombo hasn’t stopped blocking and altering shots, or recording intimidations, a statistic the Sixers resurrected after the 7-2 veteran…
· Andre D. Williams
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Sixers can’t wait to put things right with Pacers ** For three long days, they’ve lived with the sting of their Game 1 collapse and Reggie Miller’s winning shot.
Too much time has passed between games. The Sixers have been shaking their heads about an 18-point lead that once was, and replaying Reggie Millers’ game-winning 3-pointer that enabled the Indiana Pacers to take a 1-0 series lead in the opening-round Eastern Conference series.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Iverson’s numbers could earn letters from him, too — MVP ** He’s the first player since Jordan to lead the NBA in scoring and steals.
The regular-season feats of Sixers guard Allen Iverson concluded Wednesday night with him on the sidelines. His NBA-leading numbers — 31.1 points and 2.5 steals per game — became official following the Sixers’ 92-86 loss to the Chicago Bulls at the First Union Center. Iverson is…
· Andre D. Williams
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Sixers rest up for the playoffs, and drop their season finale ** Iverson and Mutombo sit, and hapless Chicago takes advantage for a rare victory.
The NBA’s scoring and rebounding champions sat on the bench in street clothes, Allen Iverson dressed in baggy jeans, a T-shirt and a scarf and Dikembe Mutombo in a two-piece suit, as the Sixers closed the regular season with a game against the lowly Chicago Bulls. With the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Sixers kick it up a notch ** Needing a confidence booster, Philly withstands a late New York rally and wins a playoff-style matchup.
Tight, thuggish, heart-thumping. Get used to it. That’s what playoff basketball will be like. A preview of it was shown to a national television audience and a sellout crowd of 20,699 at the First Union Center, Sunday. The Sixers-New York Knicks IV was the final meeting between…
· Andre D. Williams
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76ers want to take a message to Indiana ** In a prelim to its first-round playoff series, Philly wants to make a statement.
The Sixers are going to Indianapolis with everything to gain and a lot to lose. It’s mostly about mind games, especially since the Sixers (55-25) and Indiana Pacers (40-40) will meet in the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs, which will start either Saturday or…
· Andre D. Williams
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Despite Lynch’s iron-man exploits, the Sixers look brittle
The Sixers’ iron man needs three more games to complete his goal. Pain will not hold him back, even if it’s in his neck or shoulder, as it was last Monday when George Lynch got thumped by the Boston Celtics’ Antoine Walker. Just 6:54 remained in the fourth quarter when Lynch…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton fourth-grader is on the right track ** Running has brought Cheston Elementary’s Faith Robinson true grit, better grades, a good attitude and a crack at the Junior Olympics.
Faith Robinson, 9, was seemingly hopeless on the track and field surface at Villanova Stadium last April. She was running fast, but most of the other young athletes were running faster. For Robinson, a fourth-grade pupil at Cheston Elementary School in Easton, the experience was…
· Andre D. Williams
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ValleyDawgs set to draft new “litter’ ** The USBL’s Lehigh Valley-based team covets 6-1 guard Horace Jennings.
The Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs will soon be on the loose. Once off and running, they won’t stop until the end of June, maybe a day into July if they advance to the United States Basketball League championship game. The ‘Dawgs, who are entering their third season — all with former…
· Andre D. Williams
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Oft-signed, oft-released Kevin Ollie has shown himself a winner to Sixers
Kevin Ollie stood at halfcourt, waving his arms for his teammates to hold onto the ball, not attempt another shot in the closing seconds of the Sixers’ 96-88 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers Friday night at the First Union Center. Actually, Ollie should have been rushing…
· Andre D. Williams
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Easton’s LaBuda has fought his way into the spotlight ** Football was a struggle, but LaBuda has a shot at a national title in boxing.
Four years after deciding to quit the Easton High football team because so many factors were against him — including being outweighed by 23 pounds by the kicker — Nathan LaBuda was engaged in a high-stakes collegiate boxing match against a defending national champion. LaBuda, a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Inconsistent Sixers need to sprint, not limp, to the finish line
The Philadelphia 76ers cleared one hurdle in their last game, reaching the 50-win mark for the first time in 11 years by beating the Golden State Warriors 102-89 Friday at the First Union Center. Today, they must try to keep that momentum going by beating the Indiana Pacers in a…
· Andre D. Williams
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Brown, Chaney named finalists for basketball hall
NBA Coach of the Year candidate Larry Brown is in line for another possible distinction, and the Sixers coach is happy that other people associated with pro and college basketball in this city are in line with him. Brown, who has close to 1,200 professional and college victories…
· Andre D. Williams
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The bell still tolls ** Despite age and dangers, former heavyweight champ Larry Homes keeps boxing.
On June 9, 1978, Larry Holmes stopped having to prove himself. That’s the day he punished Ken Norton to win the heavyweight championship He proceeded to hold onto a portion of that title for the next 7 years. Now, at age 51 and riding a four-fight winning streak, Holmes says…
· Andre D. Williams
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Franklin’s OT outburst sinks CCHS for 3A title ** Danny Hinds scores in the waning seconds to force OT, but the Vikings can’t keep it up
The celebrating team was jumping around, hugging, and shouting at halfcourt. It wasn’t a scene many Central Catholic players could watch without having heavy hearts. That’s because it was the Franklin Knights dancing around, perhaps long into Friday night, following a 58-50…
· Andre D. Williams
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CCHS will face a team pursuing milestones ** Franklin is chasing its first state title and the 500th victory for its coach.
Bill Hager’s coaching milestones are not hard to remember. Win No. 100 came in a playoff game against Kennedy Christian, No. 200 while he was at Maple Wood, No. 300 in his one season in Jamestown, N.Y., and No. 400 in his oldest son Nathan’s senior season at Franklin High in…
· Andre D. Williams
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Victorious Vikes head to Hershey ** Behind the hot shooting of Danny Hinds, Central Catholic rolls over Susquehanna Twp. in Class 3A Eastern final.
The father of the star player began jumping and waving his arm in the stands at Reading High’s Geigle Complex with a little under two minutes remaining, and the frenzied Central Catholic student body began shouting, “We smell Hershey.” For Kenny Hinds, the father of Vikings…
· Andre D. Williams
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Kukoc is still unhappy about trade to Hawks ** He’s getting playing time but can’t stop Atlanta from losing to the Sixers, 108-103. ** Sixers
Toni Kukoc found himself engaged in a battle with somebody in the Sixers organization other than coach Larry Brown. The confrontation was tougher, only because it was against ex-teammates. But that’s part of competition. Kukoc can accept that. He admits to being a little bitter…
· Andre D. Williams
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Parkland defends Class 4A crown ** Trojans hold Emmaus to just 15 points in the second half en route to a 51-35 win.
With the game over, fans standing and cheering, Parkland junior Adam Lane took the ball and tossed it up into the air, nearly reaching the rafters inside Allen High’s Sewards Gymnasium Saturday night. An even greater outburst of joy and laughter followed for Lane, his teammates,…
· Andre D. Williams
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Hinds heats up in second half of CCHS victory ** The Viking star scores 14 of his 19 after halftime, leading to a 60-29 win.
The hardwood floor at Memorial Gymnasium opened up like the runway at nearby Lehigh Valley International Airport for Central Catholic’s Daniel Hinds in the second half Tuesday night. With the lanes to the basket more clear, his passion to score and take command of the game…
· Andre D. Williams
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A reminder that upheaval is a hazard of the trade
The final 24 hours before Thursday’s NBA trade deadline were dreadful for Philadelphia 76ers coach Larry Brown. Almost as dreadful as they were for the players who were wondering if they were about to be dealt away from the team with the league’s best record and from teammates…
· Andre D. Williams
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Sixers look scintillating agains Lakers ** Iverson scores 40, and the backup centers hold their own, in a 112-97 win.
There were big shots, one after another. There were devastating fastbreaks, capped by behind-the-back or deftly delivered passes for dunks. There were defensive stands, incredible in the hard, fierce way they were carried out. Whatever it took, the Sixers had the means and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Emmaus beats emotions, Becahi to make EPC final* The Green Hornets dedicate the win to two classmates killed Saturday.
The black arm bands worn by the Emmaus High boys basketball team were a tribute to their former classmates and swim team members Tom Gray and Matt Kush, who were killed in an automobile accident early last Saturday morning. The game, an East Penn Conference tournament semifinal…
· Andre D. Williams
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East win teaches a lesson ** A towering Western squad was done in by the speed of the East, especially that of Iverson and Marbury.
On the eve of the 50th NBA All-Star Weekend last Thursday, the towering San Antonio Spurs carried an eight-game winning streak into Continental Airlines Arena in East Rutherford, N.J., to play the so-so New Jersey Nets. So-so, however, is not the way the Nets played, thanks to…
· Andre D. Williams
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Iverson is a star of stars ** The Philadelphia 76ers guard leads a remarkable comeback by the Eastern Conference and is the game’s MVP.
Allen Iverson can’t be stopped. Not when he’s racing the court with a serious mission, slicing between defenders to score off the types of shots average basketball players can only dream about making. Iverson is the superstar of the Philadelphia 76ers, who at times plays like…
· Andre D. Williams
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All-Star question: Can Kobe, Shaq learn to coexist?
Two of the game’s biggest, most glamorous and most talented stars are here this All-Star Weekend, and everybody is shaking their heads at the Los Angles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. They see Bryant, an immensely talented 6-7 swingman who can take control of a game…
· Andre D. Williams
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Stackhouse’s scoring can’t keep Pistons from lagging far behind
Jerry Stackhouse is just like all prolific scorers. Every shot looks good to him. And the former No. 1 Philadelphia 76ers draft pick who’s been wearing a Detroit Pistons uniform the last three seasons, doesn’t get tired of shooting. Actually, Stackhouse believes the only way the…
· Andre D. Williams
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Thankfully for NBC, Iverson is a survivor
Allen Iverson is a tough man in a basketball uniform, unwilling to rest his aching body for extended periods of time. He proved that when he returned to the Philadelphia 76ers lineup five days after dislocating his shoulder to score 29 points against the Golden State Warriors…
· Andre D. Williams
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Red Rovers find hope in a schooling by Roman Catholic ** Easton outscores the Cahillites in the third quarter of a 71-49 loss.
Building blocks and gaining a measure of respect and perhaps develop an identity to be reckoned with by Mountain Valley Conference opponents the rest of the season is all Easton had to work for in the second half. The Red Rovers are in the midst of another down season and they…
· Andre D. Williams
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Sixers lose to Jazz for their third straight home loss ** Philly had led Utah for three quarters before Karl Malone led the Jazz back.
Respond to the challenges put out by your coach blazing at you from all angles or take a nose dive to lose a third-straight home game. Take your pick. That was the dilemma facing the Philadelphia 76ers against the Utah Jazz Wednesday night before 19,428 at the First Union…
· Andre D. Williams
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Webber hoping maturity brings championships
Money, fame and highlight-reel dunks are far from what Sacramento Kings forward Chris Webber is out for these days. These are the not-so-rowdy days for Webber in Sacramento, his NBA home the last three seasons. There is no Latrell Sprewell or Rod Strickland to bring the growl…
· Andre D. Williams
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Sixers winning despite flurry of injuries
All the proof has been provided. More will surely follow over the next four months of the NBA season before the playoffs begin. By then, the Philadelphia 76ers should be sitting pretty high, in all likelihood as Atlantic Division champions and as the top seed in the Eastern…
· Andre D. Williams
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Johnson sparks Whitehall to win over Allen, 51-46 ** His three free throws and 23 points help the Zephyrs stay undefeated
Julius Johnson had scored off tap-ins and slicing moves down the lane in helping Whitehall overcome a six-point second-half deficit and build a two-point lead with 29 seconds remaining. Then Johnson, a senior who plays with a Big City attitude — lots of talking, fierce and…
· Andre D. Williams
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Always a blocker, Theo Ratliff now a triple threat
You better watch out. You better not hesitate. The reason why is Theo Ratliff, the Philadelphia 76ers 6-10 center who jumps above the rim and who often comes out of nowhere to block shots. He started rejecting shots with authority in the season opener against the New York…
· Andre D. Williams
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Scipio leads Becahi into 4A Eastern final ** Versatile star scores five touchdowns; Golden Hawks eye C. B. West
Unstoppable is not just Bethlehem Catholic. It’s also Central Bucks West, winner of 58 straight football games. Dominating is not just Bethlehem Catholic. It’s also Central Bucks West, winner of three straight PIAA Class 4A titles. “We want you,” is not what Central Bucks West…
· Andre D. Williams
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Butts’ foot finally gets opportunity to win a big game for Stroudsburg
Stroudsburg kicker David Butts had waited the entire season for a situation where he could win a game with his foot. He could not have planned the game or the moment any better than Thursday’s 51st Thanksgiving Day meeting against East Stroudsburg. It was his final scholastic…
· Andre D. Williams
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Golden Hawks take no prisoners in 65-0 rout** Stem sends message to MVC with record-setting trouncing in District 11 Class 4A title game.
It started early with an interception that set up a long scoring drive of 72 yards in six plays, that consumed 4 minutes, 8 seconds. Believe it or not, that was a long scoring drive for Bethlehem Catholic against Easton in the District 11 Class 4A championship game Friday night…
· Andre D. Williams
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There’s nothing legendary about Holmes’ latest fight ** Former heavyweight champ takes on Weaver, whom he fought in 1979.
The hype, the back-and-forth jawing with the opponent, the unstable nerves athletes get as a big competition nears have not been there for Larry Holmes, and probably will not come before he fights Mike Weaver Friday night at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center.…
· Andre D. Williams
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Holmes learns that he loves this game ** After some doubt as a sophomore, Larry Jr. realizes football is his game.
The most rewarding high school football game of Larry Holmes Jr.’s career had just finished, a 41-14 victory over Parkland last Friday in the District 11 Class 4A semifinals. And within minutes, he was on his mother’s cell phone trying to reach his dad in Biloxi, Miss. “I got…
· Andre D. Williams
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Surprise! Sixers, Snow storming in early going ** The 7-0 team is being led by a point guard who has more 20-point games in last 3 games than he had in previous 5 years.
The last time the Philadelphia 76ers lost a regular-season game, the 104th Boston Marathon had just been swept by two Kenyans, Florida residents weren’t slowing up the democratic process, and guard Eric Snow had scored 20 points in a game just twice in his career. That was April…
· Andre D. Williams
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CONFIDENT RED ROVERS MAUL PARKLAND EASTON MUSCLES ITS WAY TO A 41-14 LANDSLIDE AND ADVANCES TO THE DISTRICT 11 4A TITLE GAME.
They needed nobody to tell them what they already knew. ‘We knew the whole week that we were going to win, honestly,’ said Easton quarterback Matt Loebsack. ‘We had the confidence.’ ‘The difference between this game and the last game is I felt a lot more confident, and when you…
· Andre D. Williams
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PARKLAND DOESN’T WANT HISTORY REPEATING ITSELF VS. EASTON LAST YEAR’S 7-6 FIRST-ROUND LOSS TO THE RED ROVERS IS REMEMBERED BUT NOT DWELLED ON BY THE TROJANS.
It’s a score that continues to be talked about because it was an upset last year that halted Parkland’s undefeated season and continued Easton’s postseason run. Easton 7, Parkland 6. “It was the toughest night I ever played in my life,” said Easton senior defensive lineman Larry…
· Andre D. Williams
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SOME OF GAME’S TRAILBLAZERS AREN’T AS WELL-KNOWN AS THEY SHOULD BE
For most people who admire legendary past African-American basketball players, names such as the late Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Julius ‘Dr. J’ Erving and Michael Jordan probably come to mind first. That’s because they are revered…
· Andre D. Williams
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CAVALIERS HAPPY TO HAVE SECOND GO-‘ROUND DESPITE LOSING BIG TO PARKLAND EARLY, EAST STROUDSBURG THINKS IT HAS A SHOT IF TURNOVERS ARE REDUCED.
It has been a fun week at East Stroudsburg High fotball practices. Sunday could be a fun day, too, perhaps reminiscing about good things that happened in the Mountain Valley Conference championship game against Parkland. To make for a happy Sunday, the Cavaliers (6-3) must beat…
· Andre D. Williams
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PARKLAND’S MASSAQUOI HAS MATURED INTO LEADER THE PLAYER, WHO LEADS THE TROJANS BY EXAMPLE, ALSO LEADS THE TEAM INTO THE MVC TITLE GAME.
Tim Massaquoi made Michigan his college choice before the high school football season kicked off, ending speculation over which Big Ten program he’d choose and allowing him to concentrate on scoring touchdowns for Parkland this season. But in nonleague games against Emmaus and…
· Andre D. Williams
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ONLY QUESTION IS HOW MANY GAMES SIXERS WILL WIN
Do you have a question concerning the Sixers? You probably want to know if they can make the playoffs three years in a row. If so, check out the 10 questions and answers below. Maybe you’ll have other questions. Maybe your answers are different. Anyway, read on and perhaps the…
· Andre D. Williams
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THEIRS FOR THE TAKING WITH A MORE MATURE OR SO IT SEEMS ALLEN IVERSON, THE 76ERS HOPE TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE LOSSES OF OTHER EASTERN POWERS.
Allen Iverson showed up in his baggy clothes, hair nicely braided and with an attitude that gained immediate notice. Then, without being asked, he said to everybody gathered around, ‘I’m the captain.’ That took place on the Philadelphia 76ers’ media day, and it was a firm…
· Andre D. Williams
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BASKETBALL TAKES BACK SEAT WHEN TALK CENTERS AROUND HEAT’S MOURNING
Jeff Van Gundy works in Gotham City where hearts are cold and where expectations are seemingly higher than the Empire State Building. But as coach of the New York Knicks, Van Gundy has not lost his decency or his respect of the men who help make the NBA the greatest professional…
· Andre D. Williams
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FREEDOM, PARKLAND BATTLING FOR DISTRICT 11 SUPREMACY TROJANS LOOK TO GAIN THE TOP SEED IN THE PLAYOFFS AGAIN WHILE THE PATRIOTS LOOK FOR THEIR FIRST.
Control the hype. That’s what Freedom coach Rob Melosky has tried to do all week, but too much is on the line to be cool. Too much can be gained, and possibly too much lost when Freedom (6-1) travels to Orefield to play Parkland (6-1) in a Mountain Valley Conference matchup for…
· Andre D. Williams
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POISED EMMAUS BLANKS CCHS TO WIN EPC CHAMPIONSHIP KYLE GRIM POSTS HIS 13TH SHUTOUT, KYLE CLARK SCORES TWICE IN 3-0 VICTORY.
The shot blazed ahead, bringing some fans from their cold seats and holding players on the field not involved with the play at a standstill. But Emmaus goalie Kyle Grim did not stay frozen. He turned quickly, leaped into the air and got a hand on the ball that had been rapidly…
· Andre D. Williams
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ISIAH THOMAS WAS A HALL OF FAMER IN TERMS OF LOYALTY AND DECORUM, TOO
Before Michael Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA titles in the 1990s and long before Allen Iverson entered the league, a 6-1 guard nicknamed ‘Zeke’ roused crowds with his deft passing and fearless court demeanor. Saturday in Springfield, Mass, where Dr. James Naismith gave…
· Andre D. Williams
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CLAXTON SPARKLES IN HIS DEBUT; SIXERS TIP SPURS IN EXHIBITION THE ROOKIE POINT GUARD IS A ONE-MAN HIGHLIGHT SHOW IN THE PRESEASON OPENER, A 92-87 WIN.
Forget about Allen Iverson’s controversial ’40 Bars’ hard-core rap single. What about Philadelphia Sixers’ No. 1 draft pick Craig ‘Speedy’ Claxton, the 20th overall pick in the June NBA draft from Hofstra? With his strong performance in the Sixers’ 92-87 victory over the San…
· Andre D. Williams
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OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND FOR NAZR MOHAMMED ADVERSITY OFF-COURT HAS FOCUSED THE 6-10 CENTER TO STRIVE FOR MORE PLAYING TIME.
His Web site opens with “The Wonderful World of Nazr.” At times in the past, it most certainly was wonderful for 6-foot-10 center Nazr Mohammed. In 1997 he won a national championship at Kentucky, and his world was again brightened in the June 1998 NBA draft when he was selected…
· Andre D. Williams
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MCGURN RUNS OUT OF CHANCES TO PLAY AT EASTON RED ROVER OFFICIALS HAVE DECIDED HE WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO PARTICIPATE IN SCHOOL SPORTS.
One mistake after another has cost senior YaYah McGurn a chance to resume his high school football career at Easton. The reasons for this action are unknown. McGurn had violated the Easton Area School District’s drug and alcohol policy in August and was serving a six-week…
· Andre D. Williams
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SIXERS, INCLUDING ALLEN IVERSON, WILL CAMP OUT AT PENN STATE
Healthy or not, Allen Iverson is expected to join valuable two-way guard Aaron McKie, shot blocker Theo Ratliff, Canadian Olympian Todd MacCulloch and the rest of the Philadelphia 76ers Oct. 3 when the team opens training camp at Penn State University. Iverson, the 6-foot guard…
· Andre D. Williams
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WALLER HEADS FIGHT CARD AGAINST PAYNE IBC AMERICUS CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMP HEADS EIGHT-BOUT EVENT.
He’s a farm boy from Front Royal, Va., who punches with deceptive power. He speaks in a soft, polite tone, but Jason Waller has knocked out three of the last four fighters he’s faced in Allentown. Waller gets another chance to punish another opponent in a scheduled eight-round…
· Andre D. Williams
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FOR HOLMES, BUTLER WAS INSPIRATIONAL THE FORMER CHAMP’S FIRST TRAINER, EARNEE BUTLER DIES AT AGE 76.
Famed boxing trainer Earnee Butler used to like to corner former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes — in the ring and in the car. Butler always had a story about his own professional boxing career, which included 91 wins and 13 losses as a welterweight. “He used to tell me about…
· Andre D. Williams
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BIG BLUE BOUND PARKLAND’S STAR FOOTBALL PLAYER, TIM MASSAQUOI, MAKES HIS COLLEGE CHOICE, OPTING TO ATTEND THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN RATHER THAN BIG TEN RIVAL PENN STATE.
Tim Massaquoi looked around the auditorium at Parkland High School on Wednesday and shook his head in amazement. ‘I didn’t think it would be this big,’ he said. ‘I didn’t think this many people would show up.’ That’s because the announcement of Massaquoi’s college choice was big…
· Andre D. Williams
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TROJANS’ MASSAQUOI GETS ONE MORE YEAR TO SHOWCASE SKILLS PARKLAND STANDOUT IS A TOP-NOTCH ATHLETE WHO WILL DECIDE BETWEEN PENN STATE AND MICHIGAN FOR COLLEGE
It was the final drill of Parkland High’s exhausting varsity morning football practice, and many of the players were running half-speed. That had head coach Rich Sniscak disgruntled. ‘We’re 45 minutes over schedule, so I know you won’t make it because you’re mentally weak,”…
· Andre D. Williams
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SOLT SPEEDS WAY TO INDY TRIALS
This summer has been full of hard work for Greg Solt, the 1997 Northampton High graduate who is entering his senior season on the North Carolina State University men’s swim team. No beach trips, little hanging out. Just swimming 2,000 meters a day inside the Wolfpack pool. ‘And…
· Andre D. Williams
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FOR MCKIE AND TEAMMATES, WINNING, NOT MONEY, IS KEY
Aaron McKie is as professional as they come on the basketball court, and he maintains respect and clean behavior off the court as well. On Friday night at the First Union Center, McKie’s season came to an end when the Philadelphia 76ers were beaten 106-90 by the Indiana Pacers…
· Andre D. Williams
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FOR MCKIE AND TEAMMATES, WINNING, NOT MONEY, IS KEY
Aaron McKie is as professional as they come on the basketball court, and he maintains respect and clean behavior off the court as well. On Friday night at the First Union Center, McKie’s season came to an end when the Philadelphia 76ers were beaten 106-90 by the Indiana Pacers…
· Andre D. Williams
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FOR SOME, WINNING IS ROUTINE
Bob Stem, the highly successful head football coach at Bethlehem Catholic, has won 201 games in 26 seasons. Obviously, what Stem and his staff have done is working. The results, year-in and year-out prove it. Jim Morgans, the head coach of Central Catholic’s 1993 and 1998 state…
· Andre D. Williams
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TRACK PROGRAMS SHOULD HAVE A LOVE AFFAIR WITH BANGOR MEMORIAL PARK
Bangor Memorial Park, they love you. They love your spongy track surface and well-manicured grass field. They love your environment — a clean stadium, clean bathrooms, nice concession stands. And, most of all, Mountain Valley Conference track and field athletes and coaches have…
· Andre D. Williams
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PARKLAND, EMMAUS IN LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN * THE TROJANS HAVE MOVED ONTO THE MVC, ABANDONING THE GREEN HORNETS AND THE EPC.
Every year, Emmaus or Parkland — many times both teams — seem to have a swimmer that’s All-Water, that is someone able to swim many events extremely well. This high school swim season it’s Parkland junior Chris Johnson, a key member on the Trojans’ 200 and 400-yard relay’s that…
· Andre D. Williams
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