Fryman From The Sideline

Former Cardinals outfielder joins rival Cincinnati

2012-01-17T11:20:00.000-06:00

Former Cardinals GM Walt Jocketty continues to recycle one time Redbirds in Cincinnati. Outfielder Ryan Ludwick his latest acquisition.

(AP) Ryan Ludwick and the Cincinnati Reds agreed to a $2.5 million, one-year contract Monday, according to a person with knowledge of the deal.

The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Monday night because the deal was pending a physical and no announcement had been made by the team.

An All-Star in 2008 with St. Louis, the 33-year-old Ryan Ludwick was traded from San Diego to Pittsburgh at the July 31 deadline last season. He batted a combined .237 with 13 homers and 75 RBIs.

Ludwick could give the Reds the right-handed bat they've been seeking to complement lefty sluggers Joey Votto and Jay Bruce. He figures to see playing time in left field, a spot filled mostly by Chris Heisey down the stretch last season after Cincinnati traded Jonny Gomes to Washington in late July.

It's the latest move in a busy offseason for the aggressive Reds, who had previously been focused on pitching. Cincinnati acquired starter Mat Latos and left-handed reliever Sean Marshall in separate trades before reaching an oral agreement on an $8.5 million, one-year contract with free-agent closer Ryan Madson.

Ludwick had a $6,775,000 salary last year.

Clay Zavada signs with Cincinnati

2012-01-15T16:55:00.000-06:00

Courtesy: Justin Walker

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (KFVS) - Former Southern Illinois Miners pitcher Clay Zavada signs a minor league contract with the Cincinnati Reds.

Zavada has 49 career Major League appearances, all in relief for Arizona in 2009 (3-3 with a 3.35 era).

He spen last year with the Diamondbacks' AA affiliate in Mobile.

Zavada was involved in (what many believe to be) the first player for player trade between a Major League team and an unafilliated team.

He was sent from the SI Miners to the Arizona Diamondbacks for first baseman Brad Miller.

Copyright 2011 KFVS. All rights reserved.

TWAS The Night Of Christmas 2011

2011-12-25T16:51:00.001-06:00

My annual sports-spin on Clement Moore's classic "Twas The Night Before Christmas".

Enjoy...

Jackson hires Brent Eckley as new football coach

2011-12-23T16:30:00.000-06:00

The Jackson Indians have a new head football coach with the hiring of Brent Eckley.

Coach Eckley comes last coached at Union high school near St. Louis where he posted a 62-18 record in seven years.

He took Union to the playoffs six of the last seven years. There is no questioning his win-loss record Eckley is 101-32 in his career.

Tthe Iowa native played college football at William Penn.

Girls Holiday Classic has new title sponsor

2011-12-19T17:44:00.001-06:00

An excited tournament director Mark Ruark called tonight to tell me the Girls Holiday Classic has signed Kelso Supply as it's new title sponsor.

A couple weeks ago Mark said if a title sponsor was not found the tournament could come to an end or at least take on a smaller feel (move to an area high school instead of the Show Me Center).

The newly named Kelso Supply Girls Holiday Classic begins Tuesday.

"Christmas came early this year", Ruark said.

Sports Headlines for Friday December 16th

2011-12-16T17:41:00.001-06:00

Missouri Tigers basketball team is red hot under first year head coach Frank Haith
Off to a perfect start and top ten ranking something special could be brewing in Columbia.

North Carolina Tar Heels (7-5) at Missouri Tigers (7-5)
The MU football team is less than two weeks from playing North Carolina in the Independence Bowl.

St. Louis Rams (2-9) vs Cincinnati Bengals (7-6)
The Rams host a desperate Bengals team needing victories to keep playoff hope alive
A Bengals perspective

Highlights the NFL doesn't want you to see

2011-11-04T11:05:00.000-05:00

Interesting article written by Reed Albergotti of the Wall Street Journal about NFL video we rarely see from the "All 22" angle

The Footage The NFL Won't Show You

I would love to have the option of running highlights during my sportscast from the "All 22" angle. It would give fans a greater understanding of what is actually happening on a play.

In the article Charlie Casserly, former NFL General Manager and member of the NFL Competition Committee, suggests releasing the video from the "All 22" angle would be detrimental.

"It would open players and teams up to a level of criticism far beyond the current hum of talk radio," said Casserly.

I won't argue and say Casserly is completely wrong, but let me go a step further, I believe it would create a more knowledgeable fanbase. It might even quell the "hum" on sports talk radio, at least the noise coming from those in the without anything intelligent to add to the conversation.

The next great mascot of the NHL?

2011-11-04T10:28:00.000-05:00

Kili Senegal Parrot Playing Air Hockey Trick

2011 OVC Soccer Tournament is set

2011-10-30T15:57:00.001-05:00

2011 OHIO VALLEY CONFERENC SOCCER CHAMPIONSHIP

First Round – Thursday, Nov. 3 – Cape Girardeau, Mo.

#3 UT Martin vs. #6 Eastern Illinois – 4 p.m. (OVCSports.TV)

#4 Murray State vs. #5 Morehead State – 7 p.m. (OVCSports.TV)

Semifinals – Friday, Nov. 4 – Cape Girardeau, Mo.

#2 Eastern Kentucky vs. #3 UT Martin/#6 Eastern Illinois winner – 4 p.m. (OVCSports.TV)

#1 Southeast Missouri vs. #4 Murray State/#5 Morehead State winner – 7 p.m. (OVCSports.TV)

Championship – Sunday, Nov. 6 – Cape Girardeau, Mo.

Championship – 1 p.m. (OVCSports.TV)

2011 Tournament Bracket

Publish Post

Saturday SEMO Men's basketball scrimmage

2011-10-21T12:07:00.001-05:00

Before heading over to the SEMO football game Saturday against Austin Peay Redhawks fans can take a look at the men's basketball team. The intrasquad scrimmage begins at 10:30 am.

I am anxious to see former Sikeston star Michael Porter on the court...Most are expecting big things from him this season.

2011-12 SEMO Men's Media Guide

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. - Get a sneak peek at the 2011-12 Southeast Missouri men's basketball team when it holds its first live intrasquad scrimmage Saturday. The scrimmage is set for 10:30 a.m., CT, at the Show Me Center.

Southeast, which officially began practice on Oct. 14, tips off its season at Missouri on Nov. 11.

Baseball's Dirty Little Secret

2011-10-13T11:42:00.000-05:00

I found this fascinating.

Jackson native Grant Ressel battling to remain Mizzou starter

2011-10-11T22:05:00.001-05:00

Grant Ressel

Former Jackson Indian Grant Ressel, the one time All-American kicker at Mizzou, now finds himself in a battle to remain the starter.

Ressel and junior Trey Barrow are now listed at the top of the Missouri Tigers depth chart.

Ressel has struggled this season making only seven of thirteen field goals (he's missed four of his last five).
The drop off has been staggering after Grant missed only three his first two seasons in Columbia (making 43 of 46).

"I think first of all he is a great kid and he's been through a difficult time", said head coach Gary Pinkel. "He hasn't fixed it yet and we'll deal with him internally."

Week #3 NFL TV Schedule for KFVS, KBSI

2011-09-22T16:06:00.002-05:00

NFL Schedule for KFVS and KBSI for Sunday September 25th & October 2nd.

Sunday September 25th
12:00 pm KBSI NY Giants @ Philadelphia
3:15 pm KBSI Green Bay @ Chicago
3:00 pm KFVS Baltimore @ St. Louis

Sunday October 2nd
12:00 pm KBSI Washington @ St. Louis
12:00 pm KFVS Tennessee @ Cleveland
3:00 pm KFVS Denver @ Green Bay

Week #2 NFL TV Schedule for KFVS, KBSI

2011-09-14T17:21:00.006-05:00

NFL Schedule for KFVS and KBSI for Sunday September 18th, 25th.

Sunday September 18th
12:00 pm KBSI Chicago @ New Orleans
12:00 pm KFVS Kansas City @ Detroit
3:00 pm KFVS San Diego @ New England

Sunday September 25th
12:00 pm KBSI NY Giants @ Philadelphia
3:00 pm KBSI Green Bay @ Chicago
3:00 pm KFVS Baltimore @ St. Louis

This would fire-up the Hot Stove League!

2011-09-14T16:56:00.003-05:00

Talk of Cincinnati Reds GM Walt Jocketty heading to Chicago to take over the Cubs is expected. Jocketty is regarded as one of the better general managers in the game. He has a knack of taking teams with lower payrolls and fielding contenders (St. Louis, Cincinnati).

Just for a second image him in charge of rebuilding the big-market-deep-pocket Chicago Cubs. In a word...scary (if you are a fan of a team other than the Cubs). It might not happen overnight but I don't think the wait for a perennial contender at Wrigley Field would be a long.

According to a Chicago Sun Times article a Cubs team run by Jocketty might entice the likes of manager Tony LaRussa and the games best hitter Albert Pujols.

I think the Cubs / Cardinals rivalry has flamed out a little the past couple of years, replaced by bitterness with Cincinnati & Milwaukee, but a Jocketty-LaRussa-Pujols move to the Windy City would blow the rivalry into an inferno.

www.suntimes.com

I will never forget

2011-09-11T10:27:00.001-05:00

I will never forget.

I didn't think this day (ten year anniversary of the terrorist attacks on our country) would be so tough to handle. I'm just a few hours into the day and it's all I can think about...flooded with emotions and memories. I can not image the hell those who lost loved one's or experienced the horrors first hand must be going through...now, the past decade or will suffer the rest of their lives.

I thank those who, so selflessly, put their life on the line to help others.

Jack Buck 911 Poem

Korey Lindsey update and Chase Coffman waived

2011-09-05T15:11:00.002-05:00

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (KFVS) - The Arizona Cardinals claim former Southern Illinois Saluki defensive back Korey Lindsey off waivers from the Cincinnati Bengals.

Korey was drafted in the seventh round of the 2011 NFL Draft.

Lindsey and his Arizona Cardinals make a trip into St. Louis to play the Rams November 27th.

Former Missouri Tigers tight end Chase Coffman was waived Sunday by Cincinnati. Coffman was the Bengals third round pick in 2009. He played in six games for the Bengals catching three passes for 30 yards.

Former Saluki Korey Lindsey waived by Cincinnati

2011-09-03T19:44:00.002-05:00

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (KFVS) - Saturday is cut-down day in the NFL as teams decrease their roster to 53 players.

Former Southern Illinois University Saluki defensive back Korey Lindsey is waived by the Cincinnati Bengals. He is eligible to be signed to the Bengals practice squad if he clears waivers and is not signed by another team.

Lindsey was Cincinnati's seventh round pick in this past springs NFL draft.

Copyright 2011 KFVS. All rights reserved.

SEMO prepares for rival SIU

2011-09-01T19:37:00.000-05:00

Saturday SEMO hosts rival SIU at newly renovated Houck Stadium. The Salukis enter ranked #17 and looking for a bit of revenge after falling to Southeast last season in Carbondale.

You can watch the game live on WQWQ The Heartlands CW or streaming live at www.kfvs12.com.

1999 Rams - A Look Back

2011-09-01T16:41:00.000-05:00

I flipped on the NFL Network the other day and Torry Holt was talking about his former team and how things may go for the Rams this season. It made me (the optimist) have faith the Bengals could catch lightning in a bottle as the Rams did in 1999 and roll to a unforgettable season.

Had to believe it has been 12 years since San Diego Chargers defensive back Rodney Harrison helped usher in the Kurt Warner era and the Greatest Show On Turf.

Former Ste. Genevieve QB Kory Faulkner in unfamiliar territory

2011-08-28T18:42:00.001-05:00

One of the top high school quarterbacks in the area in recent years, Ste. Genevieve's Kory Faulkner threw for nearly 9-thousand yards and tossed 102 touchdown passes.

Now a redshirt sophomore at SIU Kory is, at the moment, working on his patience instead of putting up video game-like numbers.

Former Saluki Korey Lindsey survives first round of cuts

2011-08-27T18:01:00.001-05:00

Former SIU Saluki Korey Lindsey survives the first round of cuts by the Cincinnati Bengals.
Saturday Cincinnati dropped six players off it's roster.

His senior season in Carbondale Lindsey recorded 41 tackles, picked off one pass and was part of seven pass break-ups.

Should Lindsey stick with the Bengals he would join running backs Brandon Jacobs (NY Giants), Deji Karim (Jacksonville) and linebacker Bart Scott (NY Jets) as former Salukis currently on NFL rosters.

courtesy: WXIX

Salukis look to rebound after disappointing 2010

2011-08-26T15:26:00.000-05:00

Last year was a huge disappointment for SIU on the football field. The Salukis finished 5-6...posting their first losing season since 2002.

As we approach the 2011 there is a level confidence rolling through Carbondale. Paul McIntosh is named starter after beating out junior QB Kory Faulkner (Ste. Genevieve, MO) and Northern Illinois transfer A.J. Hill (Du Quoin, IL). Hill is the younger brother of former Saluki quarterback Nick Hill.

Salukis open the season Saturday September 3rd at rival SEMO. The Redhawks pulled of a come-from-behind upset victory last year in Carbondale. It was only the fourth regular season home loss for SIU since 2003.

SIU @ SEMO Football game to air on WQWQ

2011-08-25T16:58:00.000-05:00

Good news for SIU / SEMO football fans not able to attend the season opener Saturday September 3rd. The game will air live on The Heartlands CW (WQWQ) beginning at 6:00 pm.

For those not able to get WQWQ the game is also available streaming live at www.kfvs12.com.

KFVS 12 Webcast link

Where to find the Heartlands CW

Remember Danny Almonte?

2011-08-17T11:02:00.001-05:00

It's hard to believe it's been a decade since the Little League World Series / Danny Almonte scandal. Once again proving a point why when something goes wrong for kids an adult is usually to blame.

Almonte appeared to be destined for Cooperstown, but ultimately never got a shot at the Big Leagues. In the spring of 2007 he did resurface with the Southern Illinois Miners (albeit briefly) of the independent Frontier League. Alomnte made half a dozen starts for the Miners in the teams inaugural season posting a 5.28 ERA and 0-1 record.

He was taken advantage of in 2001 and probably by the Miners in 2007.
Southern Illinois gave him a shot at pro baseball. If they caught lightning in a bottle and he panned out on the mound (both benefited), if not then the Miners received free publicity for the new organization.
The got it on a national level.

Sports Illustrated (Almonte mentioned at bottom of the article)

The signing of Almonte proved to be a savvy move.

"Where is Danny Almonte", or "What ever happened to that former Little League kid Danny Almonte". Questions I hear often from fans at Miners home games.

USA Today story about the Danny Almonte scandal

UFL appears to be on life support

2011-08-10T14:25:00.000-05:00

I really hate to hear the UFL (United Football League) is struggling. By no means did I think it would supplant the NFL as the top pro football league in the country, but I thought it would at least catch on and be a respectable "minor league".

If you haven't watched any of the leagues games or payed attention to the UFL it's worth checking out.

http://www.ufl-football.com/

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The struggling United Football League will
move ahead with four franchises instead of five and play a
condensed regular-season schedule starting Sept. 15.
The second-tier pro league announced Wednesday that the Hartford
Colonials have suspended operations. That leaves the UFL with teams
in Omaha, Neb., Norfolk, Va., Las Vegas and Sacramento, Calif.
Each team will play six regular-season games instead of eight,
with three at home and three on the road. The top two teams will
play a championship game.
The UFL has lost more than $100 million it its first two years.
The UFL said last month that it would push back the start of the
season a month, fueling speculation that the league would fold.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Miner league baseball team to set national attendance record

2011-07-04T14:26:00.001-05:00

This story makes me proud to say I am from the Dayton, Ohio area. The Miami Valley (the Dayton region as it's called) catches a lot of grief with many belittling the city and some suggesting it's not a great sports town.

Like many cities in the Midwest it's facing tough times following the loss of much of it's manufacturing jobs. The biggest punch to the gut being the automobile plant closings.

I am only able to make a couple of trips "home" each year but can honestly say it's one of the better sports towns I have visited. The Daytonians are passionate about the Cincinnati Reds, Ohio State Buckeyes, Bengals & Browns, the minor league hockey team and the Dayton Dragons.

Unfortunately I have not had the opportunity to see a game at 5th Field but everyone I have talked with about the Dragons says watching a one of their home game should be on your "bucket list". It looks like it might take a lifetime to get a ticket.

DAYTON, Ohio (AP) - The Class A Dayton Dragons have used an old-fashioned business model to set a modern-day record.

The Cincinnati Reds' farm club has packed its 7,230-seat stadium since it opened in 2000. When they return from a road trip next Saturday, the Dragons will set a record with their 815th consecutive sellout.

It'll pass the Portland Trail Blazers' mark for a sports franchise in North America. The mark is a matter of pride in the southwest Ohio city, which has gone through tough economic times. The club's executives have kept the streak going by being passionate about their fans and their employees.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

SEMO Facing elimination

2011-05-27T11:02:00.000-05:00

Here we go again...It's becoming the norm for SEMO baseball. The Redhawks are facing elimination in the OVC Baseball Tournament after just one game played.

The Redhawks have lost six straight tournament games and haven't won a game since beating Tennessee Tech 8-4 in Paducah during the 2008 OVC Tournament.

Southeast faces UT Martin at 11:00 am. Winner plays at 3pm, loser goes home.
The sixth seeded Skyhawks enter with some momentum after posting the programs first (ever) OVC Tournament victory with the win Thursday over Eastern Kentucky.

Looks like it could rain today in Jackson. Forecast calls for a 10% chance of rain with a high temperature of 74 and sunny. I'm no weather guy, but it looks like they missed this one.

OVC Baseball Tournament

2011-05-26T14:23:00.000-05:00

A big win for the UT Martin Skyhawks baseball team today in the OVC Tournament knocking off Eastern Kentucky 6-2. It was the programs first ever OVC Tournament victory.

This is only the programs second appearance in the Tournament. They previously qualifield in 1996 and were sent home after back-to-back losess to Austin Peay (16-1) and Morehead State (6-4).

The Skyhawks will play Friday morning at 11:00 am.

Up next.... (2) SEMO vs (3) Jacksonville State at 3:00 pm.

Murray State in search of new men's hoop coach

2011-05-15T21:12:00.000-05:00

After all the speculation this week it becomes official Billy Kennedy takes the same position at Texas A&M. Kennedy was an assistant with the Aggies during the 1990-91 season.

Kennedy took over at Murray State in 2006 and in five seasons posted a 107-53 record. His first three season the Racers finished second in the OVC and won the title the past two.

Ironically Kennedy's departure comes just days after announcing his contract extension with Murray State.

In a conference call with media Athletics Director Allen Ward had nothing but positive things to say about his former coach.

"I want to congratulate Coach Kennedy for the opportunity he's getting at Texas A&M," said Ward. "I appreciate all he's done for Murray State and the foundation he has built here."

Ward said he has a short list of potential candidates and will begin a search immediately. He did not reveal any names or give a time frame for hiring a new coach.

There is a press conference scheduled for 3:00 pm Monday at Texas A&M.

Murray State - The Billy Kennedy era

Year Record
2006-07 16-14
2007-08 18-13
2008-09 19-12
2009-10 31-5
2010-11 23-9

2011-04-15T19:28:00.000-05:00

A pretty nasty storm rolled through Cape Girardeau early Friday afternoon pounding the area with severe thunderstorms and hail.

I stuck mu iPhone out the back door of the TV station and shot the hail pouring down.

By no means is it ground-breaking, riveting or must-see-tv... But here it is.

SEMO hires Ty Margenthaler as women's hoops coach

2011-04-14T17:26:00.002-05:00

Just over a month ago Southeast Missouri State made the decision to not renew the contract of women's head basketball coach John Ishee.

Ishee spent five seasons leading the Redhawks program. They finished 8-21 last season and 4-14 in the OVC.

Thursday morning Southeast Athletics Director John Schaffer introduced the programs new head coach, former Wisconsin assistant Ty Margenthaler.

He is signed to a 4-year deal with a base salary of $82,500 a year.

Margenthaler is a 1997 graduate of SIU-Edwardsville and spent the last five years as an assistant with the Badgers.

He becomes the 7th coach in the programs history.

Scott County Central super fan loves her Braves

2011-03-18T17:33:00.002-05:00

As the Scott County Central Braves prepare for possibly the schools 15th MSHSAA Class 1 State Title former teacher Lela Adams is in Columbia watching her 15th Final Four.

Countdown to Class 4 Title rematch

2011-03-12T12:49:00.000-06:00

Sikeston gets a rematch of the 2006 Class 4 Championship game...A date with St. Francis Borgia.

The Knights have beaten Sikeston the last three times the schools have played including the '06 title game.

Tipp off from the Mizzou Arena should be around 3:05 pm.

You can follow on twitter for updates @kfvssports. A full game recap with postgame Saturday night on Heartland News at 9:00 p.m. on FOX 23 and at 10:00 p.m. on KFVS12.

OVC Tournament Info

2011-02-28T12:14:00.000-06:00

Gearing up for tis weeks Ohio Valley Conference Tournament in Nashville...You'll need a bracket.

2011 OVC bracket (Men)

2011 OVC bracket (Women)

The tournament gets underway Wednesday at noon. This season all tournament games will be played in Nashville at the Municipal Auditorium rather than first round games at campus sites.

The Championship game for the men will air Saturday at 7:05 pm on ESPN2, the women's title game airs on Wazoo Sports and ESPN3.

All-OVC hoops selections to be released via Twitter

2011-02-28T12:01:00.005-06:00

I'll admit when I read this press release (below) I was surprised. The Ohio Valley Conference is set to release this seasons OVC All-Conference Basketball teams using social media (Twitter). The lists will be released Tuesday.

It's forward thinking for a conference which you could argue has been behind the times in certain areas.
(Basketball double-headers for the men & women, Conference basketball tournament with opening round games at cam pus sites and the way conference baseball games are played).

(To their credit) This year all OVC Tournament basketball games will be played in Nashville and beginning in 2012 the OVC will play it's conference baseball games over three days (all 9 innings) as opposed to cramming them into two days with one of the games being a seven inning game.

KFVS Sports on Twitter http://twitter.com/kfvssports

OVC on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/ovcsports.

2001 MVC Tournament Info (Men)

2011-02-27T12:07:00.001-06:00

Saturday night the Southern Illinois Salukis wrapped up a disappointing (12-18, 5-13 MVC) season with a fifteen point loss at Indiana State.

Coach Lowery leads his eight seeded team into the Valley Tournament to face ninth seeded Illinois State.
The Salukis and ISU split during the regular season (home team winning). Game time is set for Thursday at 6:05 pm at the Scott Trade Center in St. Louis. Winner moves on to play top seeded Missouri State (27-3, 15-3 MVC).

Unless the Salukis go on a serious win streak (8 games) they will end the year with a fourth consecutive sub 20 win season and third straight without advancing to a post season tournament (NCAA, NIT, CBI, etc).

2007-08 Saluiks finished 18-15 (NIT 2nd round)
2008-09 Salukis finished 13-18 (no post season tournament)
2009-10 Salukis finished 15-15 (no post season tournament)

The last time the program failed in back-to-back-to-back seasons to reach a post season tournament was over a decade ago (1998 - 2000). That was the tail end of a six season drought (1995-2000).

You would have had to have walked through this past season with earplugs and blinders on to not be aware of the frustration brewing amongst SIU faithful. I have answered a lot questions concerning Coach Lowery and his future with the school. I was told has three years left on his contract and the buyout is the remainder of the deal.

Unless there is an agreement on a buyout don't expect him to be removed as head coach...It would be too expensive. However I I don't believe that is a serious option.

I would expect Coach Lowery to be back next season, but if things do not improve...All bets are off.

2011 MVC Tournament (Men)

Tough road ahead for Cardinals

2011-02-25T12:13:00.001-06:00

Life becomes much tougher for the St. Louis Cardinals and GM John Mozeliak with the news this week starter Adam Wainwright will under go season ending Tommy John surgery.

A season which seemed promising now sits on the brink of the unknown...before a single Grapefruit League pitch is tossed.

Where do the Cardinals look to find 30 starts, 16 wins, sub 3.00 era and 200 innings pitched (Wainwright's averaged the past four seasons as a starter).

Trade: Good luck finding the one thing every major league team is searching. If they go that route would Mozeliak deplete the big league roster or mortgage the future with the likes of Shelby Miller, Carlos Martinez, Tyrell Jenkins, Seth Blair, Lance Lynn or Zack Cox?

In-house: The first five guys mentioned above are (according to Baseball-Intellect) the top pitching prospects in the St. Louis farm system. By all accounts Shelby Miller is atop the list...Is he big-league ready?
Will they fill the rotation with the two from the veteran group of Kyle Lohse, Brian Tallet, Miguel Batista, Kyle McClellan, Ian Snell or P.J. Walters?

Free Agent: Sign a veteran and hope pitching coach Dave Duncan can work his magic?
Kevin Millwood, Jeremy Bonderman, Doug Davis, John Maine, Brian Moehler, Jamie Moyer, Ben Sheets

It will be a move(s) worth paying attention too because the outcome could directly affect the future of Albert Pujols as a St. Louis Cardinal.

What happens if the Cardinals are out of the race in the NL Central as the trade deadline approaches?
Do they gut the team (Pujols, Carpenter, Berkman, ets.) and go into rebuilding mode?

The 2011 St. Louis Cardinals are the equivalent to Must-See-TV.

SEMO Baseball Photos from Wayne McPherson

2011-02-20T20:01:00.000-06:00

Nearly every road game the Southeast Missouri State baseball team plays Wayne McPherson sends in pictures.

We can't thank him enough.

I had a few extra minutes to spare so I edited the pictures from this weekends games at Louisiana-Lafayette together with some music.

Again...Thanks go out to Wayne McPherson...

SEMO took two of three in the weekend series to begin the season 2-1.

Salukis need a spark to fuel late season push.

2011-02-13T15:49:00.000-06:00

Can the Southern Illinois Salukis (11-14, 5-9 MVC) parlay the momentum and success of tuesday nights upset of Wichita State into a victory tonight over Creighton? We''ll find out tonight at 7:05 CT.

The first game of the season Creighton (15-11, 7-7 MVC) rallied from a seven point hole in the final five minutes to send it to overtime. The Blue Jays pulled away in the extra session to beat the Salukis 72-66.

Since that loss to Creighton the Salukis have been in a free fall dropping three of ten including five straight before the much needed win over Wichita State.

Escaping Omaha with a victory tonight could be the fuel to feed a late season run into the Valley Tournament.

Hopefully they can find a groove and eventually be selected to play in one of the many post season tournaments. So far this season has been a monumental disaster.

Building a program: Cape Central basketball

2011-02-09T19:54:00.000-06:00

Under head coach Drew Church the Cape Central Tigers boys basketball program has improved each season.

This year the hard work and foundation built in seasons past is taking shape. (As of Wednesday night) Cape Central sits at 17-3 and has been red hot winning ten straight.

The Tigers will take the top seed into the upcoming Class 5 District 1 tournament.

Interesting article...What if Rams has not traded for Faulk.

2011-02-05T15:55:00.000-06:00

Courtesy: Yahoo!

Just stumbled upon this at Yahoo!.... Interesting thought..What might have happened had Rams not traded for Marshall Faulk.

Yahoo! Sports: Faulk trade may have changed others’ fortunes

New bats for college baseball

2011-02-03T20:39:00.000-06:00

The landscape of college baseball is changing.

Beginning this season teams will use a bat which plays more like wood. The balls do not come off the newer bat as fast which makes the game safer for fielders and we probably won't see as much offense this season.

Players and coaches will have to adjust to a time limit as well as the new bats this season.
With no one on base pitchers have 20 seconds to deliver a pitch. They get one warning then the batter will be awarded a ball.

The new rule works both ways... If the batter is the cause of a pitch not thrown in the 20 second limit he will be given a strike. Like the pitcher, hitters are given a warning.

If college baseball games are shortened and the focus is put on pitching & defense I'm a huge fan of the new rules. Maybe that is my National League roots showing....But I''l take a 4-3 game in less than three hours any day.

Tony Samuel contract situation...in limbo

2011-01-30T16:15:00.000-06:00

As of the 4:03 pm cst there has been no official movement (one way or another) on the contract status of SEMO head football coach Tony Samuel. His original five year contract expires Monday.

Courtesy gosoutheast.com

KFVS 12 Sports Director Todd Richards talked with Southeast Athletics Director Jon Shafer Sunday afternoon but Shafer declined comment. Those close to the situation are being very tight lipped.

What makes the situation a bit more pressing is the fact National letter-of-intent signing day is Wednesday.
Coach Samuel is scheduled to attend a signing party Wednesday at Port Cape and discuss this years class.

2010 was an amazing season for Coach Samuel...without question the best in the programs history.

Eddie Robinson award winner which goes to the National coach of the year
Roy Kidd award (OVC coach of the year)
9-2 regular season record and the programs first conference championship
FCS playoffs (the third loss of the season coming to eventual National Champion Eastern Washington)

In five seasons at Southeast Coach Samuel has posted a 22-35 record.

Results: 2011 City Of Roses Invitational Swim Meet

2011-01-22T19:57:00.000-06:00

A big day for some Missouri high school swimmers as they competed in the City of Roses Invitational swim meet.

To name just a few... congratulations to Jacksons, Katie Garner, Jenny Powell, Kyleigh Troxel, Allison Hobbs, Cape Central's Amy Allen, Maddie Siefert, Meredith Hazelrigg and Serena Chang who all qualified for state.

Results: 2011 City Of Roses Invitational

Twas The Night Of Christmas 2010

2010-12-25T17:22:00.000-06:00

Since December of 1998 I have put a sports spin on Clemete Moore's classic "Twas The Night Before Christmas". I call my version "Twas The Night Of Christmas".

It usually takes a few hours to write and days to edit but it's something I look forward to each year.
When it's time to begin writing I know Christmas is on the way.

There is a ton of video and story lines to work with...so, inevitably something is left out.

It's a lot of fun to put together.... Hope you enjoy!

Merry Christmas!

Show Me Center Holiday Classic to return in 2011

2010-12-23T19:46:00.001-06:00

The girls Holiday Classic ended Wednesday night with Notre Dame pulling off a come-from-behind victory over upset minded Meadow Heights.

The 5th seeded Panthers knocked off 4th seeded Cape Central then top seeded Farmington to advance to the Championship game.

There was a lot of concern this could be the final tournament because a title sponsor was not on board this year.

But I have good news to pass along....Tournament Director Mark Ruark tells me this year a record attendance was set for the three day event and he is talking with a few potential corporate sponsors for next season.

Ruark says he is confident a deal can be reached.

If a sponsor can not be signed the Show Me Center has agreed to bring the event back for 2011.

Sports photographer Amie Moschetto takes a look back at this year event...

Keep in mind... she put this together when we thought the tournament was still in limbo for next year.

Enjoy.

2010 Missouri Soccer All-State

2010-12-12T21:14:00.000-06:00

The 2010 Missouri boys All-State players and final team rankings:

Class 1

Class 2

Class 3

Everything can be found at www.mosoccercoach.com

Rich Payne resigns as Cape Central Football Coach

2010-12-09T16:51:00.001-06:00

Surprising news out of Cape Central high school. Rich Payne is out as the tigers head football coach.
Coach Payne called the Heartland sports office earlier this afternoon to break the news but did not elaborate.

He did release a statement saying he will now be able to focus on his duties as director of the Cape Girardeau career and technology center.

"I have enjoyed working as the head coach for the past three years. I will miss the players, parents and staff of the Central High school football program.", Payne said. "At the end of the day we coach and teach for the kids; I truly have enjoyed my time with the kids and watching them grow and succeed."

After leading the Tigers to a 10-2 season, both losses coming to sikeston, a trip to the playoffs, payne was named SEMO North Conference coach of the year and recieived the Southeast Missouri sports writers coach of the year honer.

No word yet on his replacement.

Coach Payne's press release

3 and a half hours to kickoff

2010-12-04T11:33:00.000-06:00

Just a quick update... 3 and a half hours before kickoff. It's going to be cold day for football (25 degrees at kickoff) but at least the sun is shinning. The game begins at 1:00 pm local (3:00 pm Central).

For what it's worth (some pocket lint maybe) my prediction:
SEMO 17
EWU 24

Redhawks land on red turf for practice

2010-12-04T10:20:00.001-06:00

[written Friday night but forgot to actually post]

Just got back from shooting some of the SEMO practice at Roos Field. Some of the players and coaches I talked with thought the field would be much brighter. The team was loose for the brief work out, some of the guys channeled their inner child and jumped into the huge mounds of snow.

It was brutally cold. Official temperature at practice was 26 with a NE wind at 10 mph making it feel like 17 degrees. Perfect football weather... If you are a polar bear.

Playing on a red field makes the uniform choice of each team a bit more relevant. I was told the Redhawks will wear white on black with red helmets and Eastern Washington will probably go with red on red.

I don't envy SEMO QB Matt Scheilble who will have to try and spot the Eagles defenders as they blend into the field.

Blogging from snowy Cheney, WA

2010-12-02T21:54:00.000-06:00

Roos Field

I arrived in Cheney, WA early Thursday afternoon (local time) and was a bit shocked at all the snow. I haven't seen this much snow on the ground in years.

The snow should not affect Saturdays game between the Redhawks and Eagles (unless it snows again). Roos Field is spotless, not a flake to be found. The streets and parking lots are a different story. It's so bad the area is under a snow emergency, schools are closed and snow plows are running 24/7.

Roos Field currently holds just under 12,000 but when upgrades are complete will seat 20,000.

The field turf project is completely funded by private support.

I wonder if Michael Roos and his Titans teammate (former SEMO Redhawk) Eugene Amano are trash-talking one another.

SMRCCA: 2010 Runners of the Year

2010-11-28T19:55:00.000-06:00

By SMRCCA

Last spring a number of Southeast Missouri cross country coaches met in order to promote their sport and the runners in this area by forming the Southeast Missouri Regional Cross Country Coaches Association. One of the actions that they voted to take was to select All Regional Cross Country Teams, and a Male and Female Runner Of The Year for the area. The 16 area schools involved cover Class 1 to Class 4, from Doniphan in the far southwest of the region to Oak Ridge on the north.

Brandon Shemonia
Scott City

The coaches divided the four classes into two size divisions with Class 1 and 2 forming one division and Class 3 and 4 joining to form the other. In each division the coaches had a ranked vote for the top 14 runners to form a First and Second All Region Team. Those athletes receiving votes, but not acquiring enough to be chosen First or Second Team, were named Honorable Mention. The results of those ballots are as follows:

Tori Parry
Jackson

Southeast Missouri Regional Cross Country Coaches Association

2010 All Area Teams and Runners of the Year

Runners of the Year for 2010:
Male - Brandon Shemonia (Scott City)
Femail- Tori Parry (Jackson)

Class 1 and 2 Division Girls

First Team All Southeast Missouri Region

Kristen Dippold Sr. Saxony Lutheran

Melanie Lacey Sr. Scott City

Carlie Bolen So. Oak Ridge

McKenzie Elam Fr. Oak Ridge

Rachael Gruenwald So. Saxony Lutheran

Kalli Hill Fr. Doniphan

Mollie McGowan Fr. Chaffee

Second Team All Southeast Missouri Region

Haley Morris Sr. Woodland

Regan Obermann So. Saxony Lutheran

Amanda Lappe Jr. Oak Ridge

Kaitlyn Burgess Jr. Doniphan

Renae Bartles Jr. Delta

Kendra Kohler Fr. Oak Ridge

Tori Winter Sr. Saxony Lutheran

Honorable Mention All Southeast Missouri Region

Shelbee Burgess Jr. Doniphan

Sarah Winningham Jr. Saxony Lutheran

Brittney Ritter Fr. Doniphan

Breanne Etzold Fr. Saxony Lutheran

Lisa Henderson Sr. Delta

Ashlee Long Fr. Meadow Heights

Class 1 and 2 Division Boys

First Team All Southeast Missouri Region

Brandon Shemonia Jr. Scott City

Ethan Seyer So. Oak Ridge

Zach Riegert Sr. Delta

Caleb Elam Sr. Oak Ridge

Daylan Davis Jr. Meadow Heights

Eric Essner So. Scott City

Brandon Bien So. Advance

Second Team All Southeast Missouri Region

Austin Seabaugh Sr. Delta

Corvin Schoen So. Oak Ridge

Luke Kessee Jr. Scott City

Aaron Yount So. Woodland

Sam Briete Jr. Saxony Lutheran

Jesse Sanders So. Scott City

Jake LeGrand Fr. Oak Ridge

Honorable Mention All Southeast Missouri Region

Steven Bright So. Meadow Heights

Brandon Fritsche So. Saxony Lutheran

Kris Cook Sr. Saxony Lutheran

Tyler Adams Jr. Scott City

Juan Campos Jr. Kelly

Class 3 and 4 Division Girls

First Team All Southeast Missouri Region

Tori Parry Sr. Jackson

Taylor Dickerson Jr. Jackson

Elizabeth Kiblinger Jr. Notre Dame

Laura Chavez Jr. Cape Central

Mary Dohogne Sr. Cape Central

Jordyn Richmond Sr. Cape Central

Lindsey Seabaugh Jr. Jackson

Second Team All Southeast Missouri Region

Maddie Baumgart Fr. Notre Dame

Elsie Anderson Fr. Notre Dame

Breanna Conklin So. Notre Dame

Allison Huskey Fr. Poplar Bluff

Ashley Schmittzehe Sr. Notre Dame

Zhao Ni Dirnberger So. Jackson

Kaitlyn Carpenter Fr. Poplar Bluff

Honorable Mention All Southeast Missouri Region

Anna Crescitelli Fr. Poplar Bluff

Lizzie Kohlbaker Sr. Dexter

Class 3 and 4 Division Boys

First Team All Southeast Missouri Region

Eric Schott Sr. Cape Central

Ethan Holcomb Sr. Notre Dame

Collin Summers Sr. Cape Central

Roy Leighton Sr. Cape Central

Josh Johnson So. Notre Dame

Nate Lincoln Jr. Notre Dame

Brandon Bryant Jr. Cape Central

Second Team All Southeast Missouri Region

Riley Talbut Jr. Jackson

Cole Ross So. Notre Dame

Arman Clark Jr. Cape Central

Lars Monia Sr. Cape Central

Bailey Davidson Fr. Poplar Bluff

Ray Hecht Jr. Jackson

Luke Pelton So. Poplar Bluff

Honorable Mention All Southeast Missouri Region

Lance Essner Sr. Notre Dame

Brock Nanney Sr. Jackson

Matt Gibson Fr. Jackson

Adam Raines Jr. Notre Dame

Jacob Cieslewicz So. Notre Dame

Ethan Sheer Jr. Sikeston

SEMO draws Eastern Washington in FCS Playoffs

2010-11-21T10:52:00.004-06:00

Cape Girardeau to Cheney, WA

Looking for a series road trip? The FCS playoff selection committee can help. Pack a large cooler, gas up the minivan you will be traveling 1,903 miles to Cheney, WA.

Southeast Missouri State draws 5th seeded Eastern Washington in the FCS playoffs. As I write this the game start time is TBA.

Tony Samuel and company will have a tough test. The Eagles enter the playoffs ranked #1 in the most recent Top 25 poll released by The Sports Network.

Get to know the Eastern Washington Eagles:

Roos Field

9-2 record and co-champs of the Big Sky Conference
Have a 7 game win streak
Average 35 points per game
Eastern Washington Roos Field. (Think Boise State's blue turf...Only this is red).
Famous Alumnus: ESPN Radio host Colin Cowherd
Famous Alumnus: Todd McFarlane (Spawn comic book creator, co-owner of Edmonton Oilers)

Past FCS Champions

2010 FCS Bracket (printable)

MSHSAA: Valle Catholic pres Concordia

2010-11-18T20:01:00.000-06:00

Saturday at 1:30 head coach Judd Naeger will lead his Valle Catholic Warriors (12-1) on the field against undefeated (13-0) Concordia for a ticket to the Classs 1 State Title Game.

In seven seasons at Valle Catholic coach Naeger has taken the Warriors to the playoffs five times and posted a record of 9-4 (a winning percentage of .692). Last season they advanced to the Championship game but lost to Penney 21-17.

That loss, coupled with the fact the Warriors have plenty of post season experience, has fueled Valle through an impressive season. In three post season games Valle is putting up 51 points a game and allowing 18. Both sides if the ball are playing very well for coach Naeger, but you can say the same for Concordia. The Orioles average 56 and 12 through three playoff games.

What type of game will we see Saturday? A shootout, a defensive struggle?
No on can say with certainty but the Warriors believe it will be a challenge. Concordia runs a bit of a throw-back offense. Instead of the run-and-shoot or no huddle you see many teams using to seemingly score at will, Concordia focuses on a running attack out of the option based veer offense.

"It's going to be a lot different than what we have seen in the past," said Valle Catholic senior Luke Uding.
"I think it's going to be either real close or a shootout."

Despite all of the points put up by both teams during the playoffs Coach Naeger is not buying into this quarterfinal game turning into a track meet.

"I think both teams have way too good of a defense for the game to turn into that type of a game," said Naeger.

Valle Catholic and Concordia begin at 1:30 on Saturday. The winner advances to the Dome in St. Louis to face the Welstran / Wellington-Napolean winner.

FCS Football Bracket Projection (11-14-10)

2010-11-14T23:21:00.000-06:00

By all accounts it appears the Southeast Missouri State Redhawks will be awarded a spot in the upcoming FCS Playoffs after finishing 9-2. SEMO can still win the OVC automatic bid should Jacksonville State lose its final regular season game next week.

The Sports Network released FCS bracket projection over the weekend and put the Redhawks on the road against Missouri Valley Conference champion Northern Iowa.

FCS Football Bracket Projection (11-14-10)

The FCS Playoff selection show is scheduled for 9:00 am Sunday November 21st. It will be aired on ESPNU.

Postgame wrap - SEMO vs Jacksonville State

2010-11-13T21:33:00.000-06:00

Hope you were able to watch the SEMO / Jacksonville State game (if not the game is archived on the KFVS Webcast page).

Following the game Todd Richards talked with QB Mat Scheible and RB Henry Harris.

Sports schedule for KFVS 12 & WQWQ

2010-11-10T12:10:00.002-06:00

I often get calls and e-mails asking which games (NFL & college) will air on KFVS and/or WQWQ, so I thought I would begin posting the schedule. This is for Saturdays and Sundays only.

Do not set your sights on the KFVS 12 Sports department... We do not pick which NFL games will air.

Saturday, November 13, 2010

KFVS:

11A-6PM College Football on CBS (DH)
Ole Miss @ TennesseeGeorgia @ Auburn

WQWQ:

3-6 PM OVC Football SEMO @ Jacksonville State

6-9PM OVC Game of the Week Wazoo Sports
Tennessee State @ UT Martin

Sunday, November 14, 2010

KFVS:

11A-12P The NFL Today

12-4 PM NFL Football Tennessee @ Miami

4-5 PM CBS Sports Spectacular Courage in Sports Awards

Saturday, November 20, 2010

KFVS:

12:30-1:30P NFL Films The NFL’s Man in the Hat: Tom Landry

1:30-2PM CBS College Football Special

2-2:30PM College Football Today

2:30-6PM College Football on CBS Ole Miss @ LSU

WQWQ:

4-7 PM OVC Game of the Week Wazoo Sports
Jacksonville State @ Tennessee Tech

Sunday, November 21, 2010

KFVS:
11A-12P The NFL Today
12-6 PM NFL Football
Houston @ NY Jets
Indianapolis @ New England

Murray State hoops getting some early National love

2010-11-09T22:19:00.000-06:00

Need a college hoops fix... No surprise here...The defending OVC Champion Murray State mens basketball team is knocking on the door of the ESPN preseason power rankings.

(According to ESPN) OVC ranks #18 out of 32 men's D1 conferences and the Missouri Valley comes in at #11.

Former MU Tiger Chase Coffman back on Bengals active roster

2010-11-09T21:51:00.000-06:00

Chase Coffman /Cincinnati Bengals

Tuesday the Cincinnati Bengals signed former Mizzou tight end Chase Coffman to the active roster from the teams practice squad.

Coffman was waived by the Bengals September 4th and signed to the practice squad a day later after clearing waivers.

The Bengals took Coffman in the third round of the 2009 NFL Draft. His pro career has been anything but productive. He was inactive for the first twelve games of his rookie season and later placed on injured reserve with bone spurs.

SEMO @ Jacksonville State to air on WQWQ

2010-11-06T16:15:00.000-05:00

Good news to SEMO football fans unable to make the trip to watch the Redhawks play for a OVC Championship next Saturday at Jacksonville State.

--- --- ---

November 6, 2010

Southeast Missouri will Sponsor a Live Television Broadcast of the Redhawks Football Game at Jacksonville State

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KFVS) – Southeast Missouri State University will present a live television broadcast of the ninth-ranked Redhawks Ohio Valley Conference clash at No. 2 Jacksonville State on Nov. 13. Kickoff is slated for 3 p.m., CT, at Paul Snow Memorial Stadium.

Southeast will partner with KFVS to televise the game in the Cape Girardeau /Paducah/Harrisburg market, reaching approximately 400,000 households. It will be aired live on the Heartland’s CW (WQWQ-TV) which is available over the air on channel 12.2, channel 12 on Charter Cable, (additional cable system channel listings can be found at heartlandscw.com) and channel 9 on DirecTV and Dish Network. The game is also scheduled to be available as a free video stream online at KFVS12.com.

“The Southeast Missouri State University fans have been great this season, and although we have a group of fans going down to Jacksonville to watch the game in person, we wanted to make sure the rest of our fans get the opportunity to see the Redhawks in action,” said Southeast President Dr. Ken Dobbins. “Working with KFVS12 to sponsor this live broadcast is a great way to keep our football fans connected to the team and to get the word out to the general public about what a great University Southeast is!”

The Jacksonville State game will mark the fourth time Southeast will be on television this season. The Heartland’s CW also carried the Murray State (Sept. 11), Eastern Illinois (Oct. 2) and Austin Peay (Oct. 16) match-ups, all Redhawk victories. In addition, all Redhawk home games this season have been WebCast free at KFVS12.com.

“We are all excited about this opportunity to play for the OVC Football Championship and we are glad that Redhawk fans throughout the region and across the world will be able to watch the game on The Heartland’s CW and on the internet at KFVS12.com,” added Southeast Director of Athletics John Shafer. “Our partnership with KFVS12 and The Heartland’s CW is one that we truly appreciate and we look forward to future opportunities to work together.”

“We’re thrilled to be able to provide this game to fans who can’t travel to Alabama in person,” said Mike Smythe, KFVS12 Vice President and General Manager. “But most of the credit goes to President Dobbins and Southeast University for stepping up to sponsor the broadcast.”

WQWQ-TV is the CW Network affiliate serving the Cape Girardeau, Paducah, Harrisburg television market, and is a free broadcast service of Raycom Media, Inc. WQWQ is operated by KFVS12, the CBS Network affiliate serving the same market, along with KFVS12.com, and The StormTeam Weather Network.

Redhawks get National recognition

2010-11-04T12:02:00.001-05:00

Just saw this in the USA Today. The Redhawks getting more National love.

USA Today: SE Missouri turns in winning direction

I was asked by a SEMO fan at Saturday's game against UT Martin if I think the team has "turned the corner on losing seasons". It's a question I hear often.

My long-winded answer.

I'm looking at the current successful football season as if you would a glass of water half full. With one tip of the glass it becomes empty or with some effort it could be filled to the top.

If the Redhawks football program is the proverbial "glass of water" will it fill up or go empty?

SEMO was in a similar position following the 2002 season. They finished 8-4 overall and tied for second in the OVC at 4-2. The next seven seasons were pretty much forgettable...18 win and 49 losses.

So, which direction will the Redhawaks go?

Sports media is often slammed for being too quick to dish out negatives and slow to be positive. Much of the criticism is rightfully deserved.

With that written....I can't congratulate the program and school enough for what they have done and what they could do still do (OVC Title, FCS Playoffs), but I can't jump onto the bandwagon and believe they have completely turned the corner. I really hope they have, but it's hard to go against history (only 3 winning seasons since 1991).

Once this season comes to an end SEMO President Ken Dobbins and school officials have to decide if they believe the program under head coach Tony Samuel (in the final year of his contract) and his staff is the right group to keep the momentum rolling into the future. Will they look at history and think this season is a "blip" on the screen.

I'm glad I do not have to make that choice.

Whatever happens...I only hope the program has turned the corner on losing.

Weekly OVC honor for SEMO & UT Martin player

2010-10-31T15:07:00.000-05:00

As the Southeast Missouri State Redhawks football team rolls into unfamiliar territory (undefeated in the OVC and ranked in the top 15) they continue to rack up weekly player of the week honors.

Defensive player of the week goes to senior linebacker Joshua Jackson. The Texas native had seven tackles, a sack and forced a fumbled. Jackson helped the Redhawks defense hold UT Martin to just 58-total yards and no points in the first half.

Jackson is the third different Redhawk player to earn OVC defensive player of the week honors this season.

Specialist of the week goes to UT Martin punter Jason Hook who punted five times for an average of 45.8 yards a kick in Saturdays loss to SEMO.

Marion coaches rockin' the mic!

2010-10-29T21:59:00.003-05:00

The Heartland is loaded with great high school football coaches and you can find one of the best in Marion, IL.

Without question one of my favorites is Kerry Martin. He's the type of coach a player would run through a wall to please.

Coach Martin and his staff have always been respectful to me and generous with their time. I can't thank them enough for allowing access to their players and into their and practices.

Am I laying it on thick? I may need the extra brownie-points.

I couldn't let this video fall to waste on the edit room floor. Classic stuff!

Before practice Friday Coach Jeff Cima took the microphone and....uh....well... take a look.

(Barry Manilow is cringing)

Sure hope they don't quite their day jobs!

Shane Kearbey placed on paid administrative leave

2010-10-27T15:53:00.002-05:00

According to Poplar Bluff high school Superintendent Chris Hon, Mules head football coach Shane Kearbey is on paid administrative leave.

Hon tells us there is a personnel investigation and review underway related to an incident between coach Kearbey and a student, which took place Tuesday at school, but Hon did not give specifics.

Kearbey took over the mules program three years ago and has been with the district since 1998. He also serves as the physical education teacher and an assistant track coach.

Dave Seivers will coach the football team for the final regular season game this Thursday against Seckman .

The Mules are 1-8 this season.

Heartland News made contact earlier (Wednesday) with coach Kearbey but he declined comment.

Scheible named OVC Offensive 'Player of the Week'

2010-10-24T19:28:00.000-05:00

OVC Players of the week for October 24th.

OFFENSIVE

Matt Scheible, QB • Jr., 6-1, 200 • Washington, Mo. • Southeast Missouri

Scheible accounted for 177 passing yards (a season-high) and 89 rushing yards as No. 13 Southeast Missouri topped Eastern Kentucky 40-21 to win its seventh game in a row, the longest streak for the team since 1975 (and longest at the Division I level). Scheible completed 9-of-10 passes for 177 yards and matched his career-high with three touchdowns. Scheible had two touchdown passes in the first quarter (a 34-yarder to Henry Harris and a 51-yarder to Chantae Ahamefule) as the Redhawks led 20-0 after the first 15 minutes. His only incomplete pass came late in the fourth quarter; Scheible now ranks 13th nationally in passing efficiency (141.99). The junior, who won his second OVC Offensive Player of the Week honor of the season, also used his feet in carrying the ball 20 times for 89 yards (4.4 yards/carry). Scheible currently ranks third in the OVC in rushing (83.2 yards/game). The win was the first-ever for Southeast Missouri over Eastern Kentucky in Cape Girardeau, ending a streak of nine-consecutive losses at home.

Others Nominated: Marques Ivory, Jacksonville State; Lorence Ricks, Eastern Illinois; Casey Brockman, Murray State; Calvin McNairl, Tennessee State; Derek Carr, UT Martin.

DEFENSIVE

Brannon Byrd, LB • Jr., 6-2, 243 • Lucedale, Miss. • Jacksonville State

Byrd has seven tackles, two tackles-for-loss and his first career interception as No. 3 Jacksonville State topped Austin Peay 56-3 in its annual Homecoming game. Byrd was part of a Gamecock defense that limited the Govs to just 67 rushing and 90 passing yards (157 yards of total offense). The junior’s pick in the third quarter near midfield set up Jacksonville State for a touchdown on its next possession. The win was the 12th in a row for JSU, the longest streak in FCS football.

Others Nominated: CJ James, Eastern Illinois; Justin Darden & Tim Cox, UT Martin.

CO-SPECIALIST

Drew Geldbach, K • So., 6-0, 205 • Wildwood, Mo. • Southeast Missouri

Geldbach netted 11 total points, going 5-of-5 on point after attempts and 2-of-2 on field goals in Southeast Missouri’s 40-21 victory over Eastern Kentucky. The sophomore hit from 32 yards and 30 yards in the second half as the Redhawks topped the Colonels for the first time in 10 tries at home and extended its winning streak to seven games. For the season Geldbach is 10-of-13 in field goal attempts and 21-of-24 in point after tries.

CO-SPECIALIST

Nick Campbell, P • Jr., 6-2, 225 • Lawrenceburg, Tenn. • Tennessee Tech

Campbell helped Tennessee Tech win the field position battle on Saturday and thus win the game in topping Tennessee State 21-10 to clinch at least a share of the Sgt. York Trophy for the second-straight season. TTU was out-gained 361-200 by TSU on the night but Campbell downed four of his six punts inside the Tiger 20-yard line, including one that went out-of-bounds at the 3-yard line. Overall the junior punted six times for a 45.5 yards/punt average with a long of 60 yards and a 58-yarder that was downed at the TSU 9-yard line.

Others Nominated: Jeremy Caldwell, Eastern Kentucky; Coty Blanchard, Jacksonville State; Cody Sandlin, UT Martin.

NEWCOMER

Jimmy Garoppolo, QB • Fr., 6-3, 208 • Fr. • Eastern Illinois

Garoppolo completed 26-of-35 passes for 341 yards and four touchdowns in Eastern Illinois’ loss to Murray State on Saturday. The true freshman connected on 13 of his first 14 pass attempts to start the game as EIU led 21-14 at halftime. The 300-plus yards and four touchdowns were the most by a Panther quarterback since November 2009. His longest pass was a 45-yard touchdown strike to Lorence Ricks in the first quarter.

Others Nominated: Coty Blanchard, Jacksonville State; Mike Harris, Murray State; DJ McNeil, UT Martin.

2010 OVC Soccer Tournament

2010-10-24T19:25:00.000-05:00

By Heather Brown / Ohio Valley Conference

The 2010 Ohio Valley Conference Women’s Soccer Championship field is set. Morehead State earned the top seed and the right to host the three-day event that will take place Nov. 4-5 and 7. Southeast Missouri is the No. 2 seed and along with the Eagles will receive a first-round bye. Austin Peay is the third seed followed by Eastern Illinois, Eastern Kentucky and Murray State.

The entire tournament can be seen for free on OVCSports.TV.

2010 Ohio Valley Conference Women’s Soccer Championship

THURSDAY, NOV. 4 – FIRST ROUND– Morehead, Ky.

#4 Eastern Illinois vs. #5 Eastern Kentucky – 5 p.m. (OVCSports.TV)

#3 Austin Peay vs. #6 Murray State – 8 p.m. (OVCSports.TV)

FRIDAY, NOV. 5 – SEMIFINALS – Morehead, Ky.

#1 Morehead State vs. Winner of #4 Eastern Illinois vs. #5 Eastern Kentucky – 5 p.m. (OVCSports.TV)

#2 Southeast Missouri vs. Winner of #3 Austin Peay vs. #6 Murray State – 8 p.m. (OVCSports.TV)

SUNDAY, NOV. 7 – CHAMPIONSHIP – Morehead, Ky.

Championship match – 1 p.m. (OVCSports.TV)

*Tournament bracket

Henry Harris named OVC Offensive POW

2010-10-17T22:09:00.001-05:00

For the fourth time this season Southeast Missouri State running back Henry Harris is named OVC Offensive player of the week. The Redhawks have won six consecutive games and rank 18th in the Sports Network Top 25 Poll.

Southeast is home Saturday hosting Eastern Kentucky in a 1:00 pm kickoff.

You can see the game Webcast live at www.kfvs12.com

OFFENSIVE
Henry Harris, RB • Sr., 5-8, 185 • Memphis, Tenn. • Southeast Missouri
Harris rushed for 152 yards and three touchdowns as No. 18-ranked Southeast Missouri topped Austin Peay 41-24 to win its sixth-straight game and improve to 6-1 on the season. Harris carried the ball 35 times and became the first player in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) to break the 1,000-yard plateau this season (1,020). The senior also broke the 2,000-yard barrier for his career. The 152-yard effort was his sixth 100-yard rushing game in a row. Harris racked up 308 all-purpose yards for the game, as he had 156 yards on four kickoff returns, including a 71-yarder. Harris currently ranks first nationally in all-purpose yards (238.57/game) and fourth nationally in rushing (145.71 yards/game). It marked the fourth time this season Harris has been named OVC Offensive Player of the Week.

Others Nominated: Calvin Middleton, Jacksonville State; Jocques Crawford, Tennessee Tech; Derek Carr, UT Martin.

CO-DEFENSIVE
Caleb Mitchell, DB • So., 6-1, 190 • Russellville, Ala. • Tennessee Tech
Marcus Edwards, LB • So., 6-1, 225 • Alabaster, Ala. • Tennessee Tech
The duo combined for 14 tackles, 5.5 sacks and two interceptions as Tennessee Tech topped Eastern Illinois 34-20. Mitchell forced three turnovers by himself, forcing a fumble and picking off two EIU passes. Early in the second quarter Mitchell picked off a pass and went 36 yards for a touchdown to get the Golden Eagles on the board. His second interception came in the end zone, ending a drive where Eastern Illinois was looking to cut the margin to one score. Mitchell also had seven tackles (six solo) and a sack. Edwards ended up with 4.5 sacks for 31 yards worth of lost yards as TTU held EIU to just 39 net rushing yards. The sophomore added seven tackles (four solo). The 4.5 sacks were part of eight by the Golden Eagle team which tied the school record.

Others Nominated: Antwaun Majors, Austin Peay; Rodney Garrott, Jacksonville State; Justin Darden, UT Martin.

CO-SPECIALIST
Rashad Haynes, RS/DB • Sr., 5-11, 178 • Rockledge, Fla. • Eastern Illinois
Haynes became the first Eastern Illinois player in nearly six years to return a punt for a touchdown, scoring on a 46-yard return in the first quarter against Tennessee Tech on Saturday. His return put the Panthers up 7-0 with 7:27 to play in the opening quarter. On defense the senior added five tackles and a pass break-up.

CO-SPECIALIST
Jordan Berry, P • R-Fr., 6-5, 195 • Essendon, Victoria, Australia • Eastern Kentucky
Berry averaged 52.3 yards on six punts in Eastern Kentucky's loss at UT Martin on Saturday. Berry put four of those punts inside the Skyhawk 20-yard line and had a 75-yard punt, which was just three yards short of the EKU all-time record. The punt rolled to the UTM 3-yard line in the third quarter. Berry also showed off his running skills by rushing for a first down on a 4th and 11 play in the third quarter.

Others Nominated: Coty Blanchard, Jacksonville State; Drew Geldbach, Southeast Missouri; Matthew Barker, Tennessee Tech.

NEWCOMER
Jocques Crawford, RB • Sr., 6-1, 238 • Memphis, Tenn. • Tennessee Tech
Crawford carried the ball 19 times for a career-high 127 yards (6.7 yards/carry) and two touchdowns in Tennessee Tech's 34-20 victory over Eastern Illinois. Crawford rushed for a 1-yard touchdown later in the second quarter and added a 2-yard score to open the fourth quarter and help widen the TTU lead to 14 points.

Others Nominated: Cameron Berra, Eastern Illinois; Jordan Berry, Eastern Kentucky; Coty Blanchard, Jacksonville State; T.J. Drakeford, UT Martin.

Salukis prepare for key game with UNI

2010-10-06T19:04:00.002-05:00

After five weeks of football no one (associated with or a fan of the Southern Illinois Slaukis football team) thought they would be sitting at 2-3 overall and 1-1 in the Missouri Valley Conference.

But that is the situation in Carbondale for the 21st ranked Salukis. A team that began the season ranked 2nd but has plummeted in the polls since losing in week two to Illinois.

"We are at a point where every game is critical," said SIU Head Coach Dale Lennon. "We just have to keep the focus on the preparation and not get too caught up in the magnitude of everything and if you do that I think you give yourself a chance."

Saturday at Saluki Stadium the Salukis can firmly put the ship back on track with a win over Northern Iowa. The Panthers won't be a cake-walk for SIU as they enter with a 2-2 record and number 15 ranking.

"There is no doubt this is a big game," said SIU Head Coach Dale Lennon. "You look at the history of it and the winner has usually had an upper hand in pursing the conference championship"

With the win last week over Illinois State which ended the three game losing streak the Salukis regained confidence and can draw on recent history for extra momentum. They have won 10 of 14 against Northern Iowa when playing in Carbondale.

"It's a big game for us as far as fans-wise and just the alumni and tradition as far as being a physical tough match-up," said Salukis defensive back Korey Lindsey. "We are just trying to keep that going on for the most part."

2013 Redhawks to play Ole Miss in football

2010-09-30T17:43:00.000-05:00

Chuh-ching! $$$$$

Southeast Missouri State announces today a one game agreement with the University of Mississippi to play football in 2013. The Redhawks will face the Rebels in Oxford, MS September 7th, 2013.

Ole Miss competes at the Football Bowl Subdivision level (formerly 1-A) in the Southeastern Conference.

SEMO has a connection to Ole Miss - SEMO Athletics Director John Shafer held the same position in Oxford from 1998-2002 and SEMO mens basketball coach Dickey Nutt is a younger brother of Mississippi head football coach Houston Nutt.

The Redhawks will also play another "money" game in 2011 against Purdue.

Cardinals eliminated from postseason

2010-09-28T22:04:00.000-05:00

For only the fourth time this decade the St. Louis Cardinals will not win or share the the NL Central Division title. Chicago won in 2003, 2007 & 2008 and this year Cincinnati claimed it's first division Championship since of the decade and first since the shortened season of 1995.

The '95 season (which was limited to 144 games) began April 25th after the players strike ended. The strike began August 11th 1994 and lasted 232 days.

Please allow me to be excited... As a life long Reds fans it's been tough remaining interested and excited about my team for the entire season. The Reds are usually an afterthought around the All-Star break, so for them to play meaningful baseball the second half of the season is a bit foreign to me (and Reds Nation).

At least for the next couple of weeks I get a little taste of what it's like to be a Cardinals fan....My team with a chance to go to the World Series!

To quote Cincinnati Reds veteran play-by-play announce Marty Brennaman, "And this one belongs to the Reds."

Sports: A healing power

2010-09-24T10:51:00.000-05:00

I'm not trying to be a "downer" or darken the mood on a Friday...Not by any stretch.

I'm sure most have been touched by cancer in some way..a friend, relative, co-worker, etc. For me it was my grandmother losing a battle to breast cancer. There is not a day that passes when she is not in my thoughts.

Each time I sit at the desk in my home office I catch a glance of the Reds thermos she got me as part of a promotion at a Reds minor league game in Tampa, FL. It brings back memories of spending summers with her and my grandfather at their home in Florida. She was one of the driving forces behind me becoming the person I am today. I miss her greatly.

I can empathize with anyone dealing with a loved one stricken by any form of cancer.

I stumbled upon this article in the Orlando Sentinel of a family fighting...A fathers wish to see his daughter play varsity lacrosse.

Orlando Sentinel: Dying wish fulfilled

Scott City preps arch rival Chaffee

2010-09-23T16:50:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I put the spotlight on the Chaffee Red Devils as they prepare for arch rival Scott City.

Now it's the Rams turn.

Scott City has had a roller coaster first four weeks of season winning only once and suffering through three losses. Two of their three losses were by less than a touchdown. They picked up their lone victory in week two.

Week #1

Malden 47 (OT)
Scott City 41

Week #2

Scott City 42
St. Vincent 21

Week #3

Scott City 23
East Prairie 37

Week #4

Scott City 7
Dexter 43

The Rams feel they are on the verge of putting it all together and righting the ship.

"I was disappointed last week in our performance," said Scott City head coach Jim May. "Before that we lost a couple games to Malden and East Prairie that we had chances play in but last week it was never truly a contest. We were beaten early and soundly and that disappointed me. Our spirits are up and we are working and hopefully going to get this turned around right now"

Chaffee preps arch rival Scott City

2010-09-22T20:21:00.005-05:00

It's hard to believe this Friday marks the mid point of the high school football season in Missouri (week number five of the regular season).

One of our key match ups this week on Heartland Football Friday features arch rivals Scott City and Chaffee. The Red Devils travel down the road to road to Scott City a place they have won only once in the past three trips.

Both teams have struggled to start the season and both sport identical 1-3 records. Chaffee knocked off St. Pius X 20-6 last week to end a three game skid to open the year. By no stretch of the imagination is Chaffee in a position they hoped to be, but they believe all is not lost.

"We are all on the same page," Said Chaffee Senior Cody Enderle. "We are all acting like brothers in the locker room and definitely on the practice field. We just carry that over every Friday night and for the past two weeks and that's what has really helped us a lot."

Come Friday night the atmosphere in Scott City will be electric for the annual rivalry. Red Devils head coach Charlie Vickory it's more than just a fun night for the players.

"It should be fun for the town and the kids you know If you can't get up for that game you can't get up for any of them," said Vickory. "I think we have kind of renewed the rivalry a little bit (winning in 2008 & 2009). I have always said there is not much of a rivalry if one team wins all the time and that was the case for a while and I think it's a pretty good rivalry and they (Scott City) have a pretty good football team. They have played some tough opponents as well, so we are looking for to Friday night."

Congrats to SEMO

2010-09-19T00:34:00.016-05:00

I must admit I'm still in a little shock Southeast Missouri State was able to fight back (down 21-3 in the 3rd Qtr) and upset fifth ranked SIU 24-21. What a huge win for head coach Tony Samuel, his staff, players and the University.

Going into Carbondale and not only standing toe-to-toe with the number 5 Salukis but punching them in the mouth is utterly monstrous!

I'm really happy for Coach Samuel...This is a victory he desperately needed and should weigh heavily in his favor come contract renewal time. Coach Samuel is in the final year of his current contract.

The Redhawks now have legit expectations. Can they keep it going? Will they buckle under pressure? Who knows, but it should be a interesting remainder of the season.

VIDEO: The victorious Redhawks return to Cape last night after beating #5 SIU.

8-Soldiers and a Jeep!

2010-09-13T12:55:00.006-05:00

8-Soldiers and a Jeep!

No it's not part of the new fall lineup on CBS. Although it could be the basis for a M*A*S*H (like) sitcom.

This is absolutely incredible.

NASCAR pit crews should feel nervous after watching this video. Wish I could get service this quick at my local auto shop. Would be great to have my car fixed and ready to go before I sit down in the waiting room and flip through an old copy of Sports Illustrated.

To borrow and modify the slogan from Jimmy Johns...This is "Service so fast you'll freak".

Sam Bradford era begins

2010-09-12T21:08:00.010-05:00

52,440 at the Edward Jones dome in St. Louis witnessed the beginning of rookie QB Sam Bradford's NFL career. Despite the 17-13 loss I think it's safe to say the vast majority will agree the future looks bright for Bradford and the Rams.

Bradford finished with 32 completions (55 attempts) for 253 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions and a quarterback rating of 53.1.

"Obviously I'm disappointed about the loss, I though we had a chance to win the football game,' said Bradford. "I thought I handled some things well and didn't handle some things so well but I think when I get in tomorrow and look at the tape there is going to be some things to learn from."

Bradford spread the the ball to eight different receivers....his go-to-guy in game one was the newest member of the team Mark Clayton. He caught 10 of the 16 passes thrown his way for a total of 119 yards. Thirty-nine coming on one reception. The veteran joined the Rams after being released from Baltimore.

Head Coach Steve Spagnuolo was as upbeat as one could be after a loss.

"We are going in the right direction, we are doing the right things. Guys are doing what they are supposed to we just need to make a play," said head coach Steve Spagnuolo. "The only thing we didn't get today was the reward."

If I had to give Bradford a grade for his (real) debut...He gets a solid C+. I thought he was composed, showed he has some command and didn't appear to be "shell shocked". I think the interceptions will decrease once he becomes more familiar with the offense and Bradford gets the timing down with his receivers.

The Rams (0-1) travel west to play the Oakland Raiders (0-1) Sunday at 3:05.

Countdown to Selection Sunday

2010-09-10T09:46:00.007-05:00

I know football has taken center stage but it's never too early to look ahead to basketball season. Saw this story at Yahoo! Sports about the upcoming (expanded NCAA Mens Basketball Tournament). NCAA Selection Sunday (March 13th, 2011) is only 184 days away.

The first four opening round games will be played at the UD Arena in Dayton, OH March 15 & 16. Great move by the NCAA top brass for awarding UD the extra games. The boost in extra revenue for the Dayton economy will be welcomed and it's a well deserved accolade to basketball fans in the Miami Valley.

No matter how good or bad the Flyers are on the court (lately they have been solid - 2010 NIT Champs) 10-12 thousand pack the arena for each game. UD Arena (home of the University of Dayton Flyers) is a great place to watch a game and a definite home court advantage for the Flyers. They are 509-183 at home.

The Flyers have only made the NCAA Tournament seven times since 1979.

And some not-so-good-news for the the Tennessee Vols basketball program.

According to the Associated Press the NCAA has contacted head coach Bruce Pearl and a assistant about possible recruiting violations. Combine that with players arrested on guns and drug charges, football players involved in a brawl and a separate investigation into former head football coach Lane Kiffin for possible violation... you get (not-so) good times on Rocky top.

Cards - Reds race for the NL Central

2010-09-06T18:41:00.007-05:00

Can't take credit for these numbers... I lifted them from a great sports blog (heavy on Cincinnati sports) written by Cincinnati sports talk radio host Lance McAlister.

*Doing the math

Reds 79-58....6 game lead with 25 games remaining
Cards 72-63.....27 games remaining

If Reds go 15-10 (94-68)
Cards must go 22-5 (.815) to tie

If Reds go 13-12 (92-70)
Cards must go 20-7 (.741) to tie

If Reds go 12-13 (91-71)
Cards mut go 19-8 (.704) to tie

If Reds go 12-13 (91-71)
Cards must go 19-8 (.704) to tie

If Reds go 11-14 (90-72)
Cards must be 18-9 (.667) to tie

*http://www.1530homer.com/pages/lancesBlog.html

SIU = Running Back U

2010-09-05T22:03:00.003-05:00

The Southern Illinois Slauki football program has (of late) become a mini football factory. The list is pretty impressive with the likes of Tom Koutsos, Larry Warner, Deji Karim, Brandon Jacobs and Muhammad Abdul-Kadir.

Could the guy currently lining up in the Saluki backfield, Lucien Walker, be the next great SIU back? In the season opener he gave them a solid effort with 116 yards rushing and three touchdowns on a dozen carries.

Starting quarterback Chris Dieker says it makes life much easier when he has a go-to-guy he can hand the football.

"I'm happy with what we did offensively," Said Chris Dieker. "We had a prettty solid run performance today and that was pretty exciting to see. "Going into the game we weren't sure what our identity would be but we came out and ran the ball hard and threw it consistantly and I'm happy with the play."

Jacksonville State beats Ole Miss (SEMO did it 103 years ago)

2010-09-04T22:06:00.011-05:00

This is absolutely huge! Jacksonville State pulling of a come-from-behind upset victory of big-boy-football-team Ole Miss. The Gamecocks knocked off the Rebels 49-48 in overtime.

It's not the first time the Rebs have lost to a team (currently) in the OVC. Ole Miss suffered a 12-6 loss to SEMO in 1907. It was the only victory of the season for Southeast.

SEMO Football 1907

Won 1, Lost 3

Opponent SE OPP

Mississippi W 12 6

Washington University L 0 34

Missouri Mines L 5 37

Central Missouri L 4 34

Jacksonville State quarterback Coty Blanchard completed a 2-point conversion pass to Calvin Middleton in double overtime as the Gamecocks pulled off a stunning 49-48 victory over Mississippi on Saturday.

This is absolutely huge! Jacksonville State pulling off a come-from-behind

--- --- ---

Blanchard threw a 30-yard touchdown pass to Kevyn Cooper on fourth-and-15 to pull within 48-47 in the second overtime. Then, the Gamecocks made the call to go for the win in the season opener for both teams.

Jacksonville State, a Football Championship Subdivision team from the Ohio Valley Conference, trailed 31-10 at halftime but outscored Ole Miss 21-3 in the fourth quarter to force overtime.

Jeremiah Masoli made his much-anticipated debut for Mississippi after being cleared by the NCAA on Friday. He completed 7 of 10 passes for 109 yards and one interception.

Ole Miss is 6-6 all-time in overtime games.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Senior leadership is key for East Prairie

2010-08-22T23:25:00.005-05:00

High school football kicked off last Friday night in Kentucky. Missouri and Illinois start the season this Friday night.

Let's shine the spotlight on East Prairie, a team with expectations for another great season. Last year they finished 8-3, won the SEMO South Conference with a perfect 5-0 record and ended the year with a loss in the Regionals to Crystal City.

The Eagles lost some leadership to graduation, but head coach Jason Aycock believes a lack of leadership will not be an issue, he believes the team is loaded.

"I don't think we necessarily lost any leadership we have twelve seniors," said Coach Aycock. "This is probably the best group of leader I've had in the thirteen years I have been coaching."

East praire opens the season Friday night at Hayti, a seven o'clock kickoff. After Hayti, East Prairie is back home for two before hitting the road to play Kennett.

Fundamentals are key for Perryville

2010-08-22T21:57:00.004-05:00

We are just days from the beginning of the high school football season for Missouri and Illinois teams.

This time of year each team is excited about the season and confident good things will heppen. The Perryville Pirates are one of those teams. They have struggled the past five years compiling just 13 victories and suffering through 38-losses.

The key for Perryville head coach Keith Winkler's team is to simply get back to the basics of the game. He says it's all about the fundamentals.

"Just finding that mental aspect of the game," said Winkler. "We were moving the ball (during Friday nights Jamboree) and then we fumbled and it took us awhile to get focused again and ready to go. There's going to be mistakes in games and we are going to have to fight through those mistakes, fight through those adversities come out and execute and do those fundamentals right."

The first part of the season shapes up to be tough. The Pirates first four opponents finished a combined 31-12 last season.

Matt Stairs Climbs To The Top

2010-08-22T15:20:00.005-05:00

Unless you are a Brewers or Padres fan you might have missed a bit of MLB History last night.

We have a new King of hitting pinch hit homers. Drum roll please.......Matt Stairs climbs to the top of the list. (Sorry I couldn't resist...Matt Stairs climbs...)

The veteran journyman knocked out his 21st pinch hit homer run last night in the Padres win over Milwaukee. Stairs passed Cliff Johnson for most pinch-hit homers in league history. Johnson played from 1972-1986.

The most famous homer Matt Stairs as a pinch-hitter came with two outs in the eighth inning of game 4 of the 2008 National League Championship series. He drilled a two run bomb to help the Phillies beat the Dodgers.

Stairs has 262 home runs in a career that began with the Montreal Expos in 1992.

Moving and blogging don't mix

2010-08-20T14:03:00.005-05:00

I got into a routine of updating the blog on a regular basis (I will continue), but the past week my wife and I moved into our new house.

Things should get back to normal soon...

Door open for Michael Porter to become a Redhawk

2010-08-16T10:56:00.005-05:00

Nothing like starting the week with potentially great new for Southeast Missouri State.

Former Sikeston high school basketball star Michael Porter has been released from his scholarship at Missouri State and is free to transfer.

Wouldn't it be great to see him playing for the Redhawks? It sure would help bring fans into the Show-Me-Center for games.

Porter signed with Missouri State out of high school but suffered through an injury plagued freshman season. He was limited to only six games scoring just 23 points ans pulling down 13 rebounds. He dealt with a hamstring issue, emergency appendectomy surgery in November and hip surgery following a car accident in June.

By Rick Kindhart
Assistant Director of Athletics for Communications Missouri State Univeristy

SPRINGFIELD - Missouri State men's basketball coach Cuonzo Martin announced Monday that forward Michael Porter requested and was granted a release from his scholarship.

The redshirt freshman from Sikeston, Mo., cited personal reasons for ending his association with the Bears. His announcement comes just over two months after a serious, single-car accident hospitalized him on June 9, putting his playing future in jeopardy.

"Tomorrow is never promised," Porter said. "The past few months have helped me prioritize things in my life. Whether or not I am able to play basketball again, I want to stay close to home. I love the Missouri State program, but I have a son now, and being a father figure is more important than ever."

Martin said he respects Porter's decision and appreciates his hard work while with the program.

"We wish Mike the best and respect where his priorities are," Martin said. "He has been through a lot this year, and we are grateful for his contributions."

Porter's roller coaster ride of a freshman season also included an emergency appendectomy and a torn hamstring that forced him to miss all but six games, ultimately earning him a medical redshirt. He averaged 3.8 points and 2.2 rebounds in a reserve role that saw him average just over 11 minutes per contest. He scored a team-high 16 points in the team's 75-62 road win at Arkansas Little Rock on December 2, and notched five rebounds against Air Force at JQH Arena on December 5.

Despite the trials and tribulations that led him to making what he calls ''the most difficult decision'' of his life, Porter says he would not change a thing about his involvement with the Missouri State program.

"Coach Martin is the best coach I have ever had," Porter said. "I owe so much to him and the staff, to my teammates, and to the great fans at Missouri State. I will always be a Bear. With or without me, Missouri State is going to have a great season, and I wish nothing but the best for the team."

Porter said he plans on continuing his education at Southeast Missouri State this fall. Southeast is located about 35 miles north of Sikeston in Cape Girardeau. He also said he plans to take his physical recovery from the accident very slow and rates the chances of ever playing basketball again at 50-50.

"I love the game, and it would be hard to walk away," Porter explained. "That's why I am taking everything very slow."

The Bears are in the process of finalizing their 2010-11 non-conference schedule, which should be available in the next couple of weeks. Martin begins his third season at the helm of the Bears who finished last season with a 24-12 overall record after winning the CollegeInsider.com Postseason Tournament.

Missouri looks good in scrimmage

2010-08-15T21:58:00.004-05:00

The Missouri Tigers took the field this weekend at Farot Field in an intra squad scrimmage as they inch closer to the start of the 2010 season. With rarely a shortage of offense Mizzou put on a display in Columbia, starting quarterback Blaine Gabbert was strong completing 18 of 23 for 162 yards and a touchdown, but says there is room for improvement.

"We have to get more consistent on both sides of the ball," said Gabbert. "There are goods and bad's of the scrimmage, but we'll look at film tomorrow and evaluate it."

Mizzou Offense 56
Mizzou Defense 48

Big plays highlighted the Tigers offensive attack. Derrek Washington got things going on the first play from scrimmage busting loose for 73 yards, he also added a 42 yard run later in scrimmage.

"We got better (Missouri Offense) and the defense just needs to get better too," said Washington. "Both sides of the ball made big plays. Once we bring it together as a team it's going to be hard to stop us."

If Saturday's first scrimmage of fall practice is any indication, this year could be exciting. Kendial Lawrence took a Jimmy Costello pass 60 yards for the first touchdown and Washington took a short reception 47 yards for a score.

"I think we looked ok, but ok isn't good enough." said head coach Gary Pinkel. "We will continue to work hard and we have a chance to be a good football team but we have a lot of work to do."

Freshman James Franklin, the odds on favorite to take over the back-up role, connected on 17 of his 26 pass attempt for a 125 yards.

HFF: Marion Wildcats hungry for more success

2010-08-14T21:36:00.009-05:00

I say this each year at this time "I can't believe football season is here." Heartland Football Friday is set and ready to debut in less than a week. We roll it out Friday August 20th during Heartland News at ten.

You can catch me live at Mayfield, KY during the six and ten news. I will cover the Marshall County Marshall's game against Mayfield at, one my favorite places to watch a game, War Memorial Stadium.

Illinois teams open the season a week later on August 27th.

There is a lot of excitement brewing in Marion, IL and i'm not talking about the playoff bound Southern Illinois Miners. Just a few miles away from Rent One Park (behind Marion High School at 1501 South Carbon Street) Kerry Martin and his Wildcats are preparing for what many believe will be a season to remember. Marion finished 9-2 last year (4-1 in the South Seven) and has all the confidence to make a run deeper into the postseason.

"We build on every positive and every negative," said Marion senior Matt Grffith. "If there is something wrong going on in practice we come back and build on it, if there is something positive we give props to it and keep moving on."

A football coach once told me "If what you did yesterday still looks good today, then today you have done nothing". If you take a second and let it sink in, it's a powerful phrase. I have tried to do it justice but it's nearly impossible. Right now the Marion Wildcats will tackle 2010 with that phrase burned into memory.

"This is the time of year when everyone is optimistic," said Marion head coach Kerry Martin. "I think we are just like everybody else, we feel like we have a good bunch of guys returning and some new faces that will help our football team. We are looking for a good season and to be honest right now our focus is on getting better and focusing on that first ballgame."

Marion opens the season August 27 hosting Granite City. The Wildcats only losses last year came in week #4 to Cahokia and Peoria (Richwoods) in the second round of the Class 5A playoffs.

HFF Preview: Scott City ready to bring back winning

2010-08-12T20:33:00.006-05:00

The Scott City Rams are eager to get the new football season going and driven to bring winning back to the program.

The Rams last enjoyed a winning season in 2007 (finishing 6-4), but the past two have been a struggle just six wins and fourteen losses.

Scott City won't make any predictions of what's to come but they believe the brutal heat they have had to battle through in the first week of practice will pay off during the season.

"It gets tougher, I just tell them August 27th it might be hot too so we ain't going to stop the game and take a rest," said Scott City Head Coach Jim May. "We've suffered through it and it's making them better players and more mentally tough."

Scott City senior running back Garett Schaefer says their is a confidence around the team this year and a feeling this may be the year they bring Rams football back to prominence.

"Coach really drilled football into us this year, we are really pumped" said Garett. "We've been working non stop this summer and we are ready to turn this program around."

Scott City opens the season August 27 hosting Malden.

2010 Scott City Football Schedule

8/27 Malden

9/3 @ St. Vincent

9/10 @ East Prairie

9/17 @ Dexter

9/24 Chaffee

10/1 @ Portageville

10/8 Hayti

10/15 @ Herculaneum

10/22 Crystal City

10/28 @ St. Pius X (Festus)

3 EIU football players given the boot

2010-08-12T15:00:00.004-05:00

I'm sure this is not they way Eastern Illinois Panthers head football coach Bob Spoo hoped the season would start.

CHARLESTON, Ill. (AP) - Eastern Illinois football coach Bob Spoo has dismissed three players from the team for unspecified rules violations.

The school said in a news release Thursday that senior running back Chevon Walker, senior defensive end Colin Luczynski (loo CHIN' skee) and junior offensive lineman Eric Rettke were kicked off the team.

The school did not provide further details. Luczynski was expected to compete for a starting spot with the team. Walker and Rettke were expected to play as back-ups. The Panthers open their season Sept. 4 at Iowa.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Brawlin' at the ballpark

2010-08-10T19:48:00.004-05:00

Ok.... Disclaimer "Chad Fryman is a huge Cincinnati Reds fan"

With that said I loved the bench clearing tussle between the Cardinals and Reds Tuesday night. By no stretch of the imagination do I condone violence. I just like to see emotion and some old-school style rivalry back in the game.

The way the game is today with free agency, huge contracts and players becoming "hired guns" rivalries have softened.

I think Reds pitcher Johnny Cueto should be suspended or at least heavily fined for his part in the scuffle (kicking a Cardinals player).

Jump forward to early October...wouldn't it be must-see-tv if the Reds and Cardinals meet in the playoffs!

If the two teams did face off in the post season it would be in the NLCS. A division winner will not play the Wild Card team in the first round if both are in the same division.

The final 50 games of the regular season should be interesting.

Sent from my iPhone

Jackson must avoid the injury bug

2010-08-09T23:40:00.004-05:00

With each new day we get closer and closer to the start of the high school football season. Monday in Missouri all high schools began practice for fall sports.

The Jackson Indians hit the field Monday morning marking the first real chance to distance themselves from last seasons 1-9 record. Like most teams this time of year the Indians have questions, but feel confident about what lies ahead.

"We don't have a lot of depth but we do have some good skill people," head coach Van Hitt said.Jackson looks to forge ahead and a key to their success will be staying healthy.

The Indians can not afford to be bitten by the injury bug especially on the defensive side of the ball.

"We have to replace a lot of people," said Hitt. "We have a whole new linebacking crew, new secondary and a little bit of experience back on the line, but other than that it's going to be a challenge on defense this year."

Cape Central football prepares for new season

2010-08-09T22:22:00.004-05:00

Lets shine the spotlight on head coach Rich Payne and his Cape Central Tigers as they begin football practice Monday for the upcoming season.

Coach Payne enters his third season as head coach and is looking for his first winning campaign. The Tigers have struggled for the past few years posting just a 1-19 record under Coach Payne. The last time the Tigers won a game you have to go all the way back to October 10th 2008. Cape Central beat Seckman 28-16 at Houck Stadium.

"Our goals this year need to be that we can play for a conference championship and be in the district championship also," said Coach Payne.

The Tigers are not making any predictions but they will give 100% effort.

"I think we have a group of seniors that can play," Payne said. "They have taken their lumps over the years but there is twenty of them here and hopefully they'll turn the corner for the program."

The Tigers open the 2010 season August 27th hosting New Madrid County Central.

Former Cardinal could haunt Redbirds

2010-08-09T14:38:00.011-05:00

I make no apology...I'm a huge Cincinnati Reds fan. This doesn't fly to well living in the heart of Cardinals country. I grew up in Dayton, Oh just 40 minutes from downtown Cincinnati and live, eat, sleep and breathe Reds baseball.

Since winning the World Series in 1990 the Reds have only made the postseason once (1995) and came within a game in 1999. Obviously life has been really tough as a Cincy fan the past 20 years

2010 looks to be the year the organization makes a return to the playoffs and many believe it could be a lengthy stay. A trip to the post season would be great, but to be completely honest I'm just thrilled the Reds are playing meaningful baseball games in August.

For the first time in a long time my attention has not completely switched to football. As a Reds fan I hope the yearly tradition of forgetting baseball once the "Back to School" commercials begin to air will finally end.

Today my dream of seeing "my team" climb back into being relevant got a major push with the acquisition of veteran outfielder Jim Edmonds. The best part of the deal is the Reds did not have to give up much to get him. They sent OF Chris Dickerson to Milwaukee for Edmonds.

Talking with Cardinals fans today most did not like the move. It has nothing to do with their like or dislike for Edmonds, they just don't like the fact Cincinnati just got stronger as they battle the Cardinals for the NL Central lead.

Heading into tonights opening game of a three game series the Cardinals trail first place Cincinnati by two games. The two teams have six head-to-head games remaining this season (Aug. 9-11 in Cincinnati and Sept. 3-5 in St. Louis).

This season in 73 games with the Milwaukee Brewers Edmonds has hit .286 with eight homers and 20 R.B.I.

High school football practice begins this week

2010-08-08T21:13:00.007-05:00

NFL and college football practice has begun, most kicking off last week. High schools will soon follow....Illinois and Kentucky are set to start later in the week.

The green flag waves for Missouri schools Monday August 9th. Cape Central hits the field Monday afternoon around 5:30.

I talked with Jackson head coach Van Hitt Sunday night and he tells me the Indians will go at nine and again at five but the expected excessive heat could affect the practice schedule.

Both Jackson and Cape Central are looking to put last season in the rear view mirror neither team enjoying much success in 2009. Jackson finished 1-9 last year their lone victory coming in the final week of the season against arch rival Cape Central. The loss kept the Tigers winless in 2009 (0-10).

Looking ahead Heartland Football Friday 2010 begins friday night August 20th

Racers hoops to play Stanford

2010-08-05T16:33:00.009-05:00

News from the college hardwood....

After the most successful season in school history (31-5 overall; 17-1 OVC and within a 3-pointer of the Sweet 16) Murray State looks ahead to what many believe could be even better.annouced earlier today... the Racers will play Stanford November 25th in the first round of the 76 Classic in Anaheim, CA.

The Racers and Stanford tipp off at eight o'clock on ESPNU in the first meeting between the two programs. If you are not making the trip westward you will be able to cozy up in front of the tv and watch all 12 tournament games on one of the ESPN networks (ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, etc.

76 Classic Tournament Bracket

SEMO hires new pitching coach

2010-08-05T15:57:00.005-05:00

The Southeast Missouri State baseball programs adds a familiar face with the hiring of Steve Bieser. The newest addition to head coach Mark Hogans staff will take over pitching coach duties. Bieser, who graduated from SEMO in 1989, brings big league experience to the Redhawks.

by Bo Bunton / SEMOSports Information

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo.- Baseball head coach Mark Hogan has announced the hiring of a pitching coach, Steve Bieser.

Hogan had this to say,

"Steve is a great hire for our program and being able to bring one of our alumni back to work with our organization is very exciting. His successes at every level of baseball speak for themselves. His leadership and player development skills are exceptional and we welcome Steve and his family back to Cape Girardeau."

Bieser, a native of Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, comes to Cape Girardeau after a very successful coaching career at St. John Vianney High. In seven seasons at the St. Louis school, he compiled a 137-51 record, along with two state championships in 2004 and 2006.

In 2009, he took over the Danville Dans of the Prospect League and currently coaches two Redhawk players, Cole Bieser and Jesse Tierney.

Bieser has coached five players selected in the first year major league player draft (1st, 5th, 22st, 22nd, & 42nd rounds). Over 80% of his high school players have gone on to play college ball with 12 playing at the Division 1 level, 4 attaining freshmen All-American status, and one named a two-time All-American.

As a player, Bieser graduated from Southeast Missouri State in the spring of 1989, and was drafted in the 32nd round of the 1989 June draft by the Philadelphia Phillies. On April 1, 1997, Bieser made his major league debut with the New York Mets. He appeared in 47 games that year, primarily as a utility player.

He is known for his ability to play multiple positions, catching and playing outfield with the big league club. He also spent some time on the mound that year in the farm system.

He signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1998, and appeared in 13 games. He ended his major league career with a .250 batting average, a .351 on-base percentage, and a .300 slugging percentage in 80 major league at-bats. Bieser ended his professional career in 2001 in a Memphis Redbirds uniform.

"I'm really excited and can't wait to get to work. It's great to get back to the place where my baseball career started," said Bieser. "This is something I've been considering for a long time and I look forward to this opportunity."

Bieser and his wife, Diahann, have a son (Cole) and three daughters, Whitley (15), Briley (12) and Carley (4).

Wild Day for Capahas and Daryl Graham

2010-08-04T17:57:00.005-05:00

Wild day for the Plaza Tire Capahas playing in the National Baseball Congress World Series Tournament in Wichita, Kanasas.

The Capahas, playing an elimination game, beat Columbia, TX 7-3.

Former Cape Central standout Brad Labruyere was strong on the mound en route to picking up the victory. Infielder Daryl Graham lead the way at the plate with five hits including the game winner.

The day began well for Graham but took a turn for the worse. According to Mary Bolen, wife of Capahas manager Jess Bolen, Graham left the game in the eighth with leg cramps. He was later taken to a local hospital by ambulance suffereing from dehydration. Mary told me he is receiving fluids and is expected to make a full recovery.

Miners helping area youth

2010-08-04T15:07:00.007-05:00

Talk to any Frontier League baseball player and most agree the Southern Illinois Miners organization is the class of the league. Most call them the "NY Yankees" of the the Frontier League, and most say it with a little jealousy in their voice.

From the front office staff to the coaching staff the Miners do things the right way making the baseball experience the best it can be for the players and the fans. Now you can help the Miners help area youth leagues.

By Scott Gierman / Southern Illinois Miners Director Of Media Relations

Aug. 4, 2010
MARION, Ill. – Now through the end of the month, the Southern Illinois Miners are accepting donated baseball mitts to be distributed to local youth leagues as part of the Miners Helping Hands glove donation program.

Any fan donating a new or used glove will receive two tickets for the Miners final regular season home game on Wednesday, Sept. 1 at Rent One Park. Donations can be made at the Rent One Park box office during normal business hours or on the concourse at the fan assistance center and advance ticket window during Miners home games.

The gloves will be donated to local youth leagues following the season. Leagues must submit a written request to the Miners to receive the equipment.

The Miners are currently in the middle of a six-game homestand which runs through this Thursday, Aug. 5. For the latest news on the Southern Illinois Miners and events at Rent One Park, visit www.southernillinoisminers.com.

2010 Missouri Championship Result

2010-08-03T20:40:00.003-05:00

Got these race results from Billy Clayton.

2010 Missouri Championship Results

Top 5 in each class

C&C Motor Sports & Racing Pro

#105 Danny Seitz

# 71 Nathan Wolff

# 37 Zach Thweatt

# 2 Colter Loshbaugh

#111 Mike Lanigan

Buffalo Wild Wings Open Am

# 6 Jesse Brown

#55 Bryan Clayton

#14 Kyler Seabaugh

# 7 Freddy Hicks

# 4 Jeremy Wells

Focus Bank 90 Pro

# 09 Reece York

# 00 Dylan Henneboehle

# 11 Madison Arnold

Armstrong Guttering Prod.

# 903 Joe Evers

# 48 Chris Willis

# 55 Bryan Clayton

# 6 Jesse Brown

# 42 Chris Canyon

Pizza Inn 200/4 Stroke

# 14 Kyler Seabaugh

# 77 Lane Brown

# 69 Austin Keck

# 333 Josh Varnado

# 39 Taylor Parish

PC Outdoors Pro Am

# 71 Nathan Wolff

# 37 Zack Thwett

# 2 Colter Loshbaugh

# 9 Rusty Tanner

# 5 Cody Barrett

B&B Boats & Bikes 450 Am

# 111 Jerrett Griffin

# 5 Garry Boyd

# 903 Joe Evers

# 55 Bryan Clayton

# 42 Chris Canyon

Satterfields Auto & Truck Salvage + 30

# 111 Mike Lanigan

# 21 Steve Miller

# 5 Gary Boyd

# 68 Don Marti

# 96 Vince Verando

Sikeston Implement 2-Stroke/400

# 64 PJ Palasota

# 2 Dillon Womack

# 77 Lane Brown

S&K Auto Service Open 4-Stroke

# 48 Chris Willis

# 7 Freddy Hicks

# 42 Keith Dick

Carnell's Collision 50 Pro.

# 04 Dalton Favier

# 12 Paetin Arnold

Nikki Ferrell Insurance Youth

# 14 Kyler Seabaugh

# 15 Clay Bryant

# 333 Josh Verando

# 09 Reece York

# 31 Blake Duncan

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