Tidewater Sports Report

Virginia Beach Native Robert Morey Leads UVA Baseball to 5-1 Win Over San Diego State

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 03:37:00 +0000

Robert Morey showed just what Tidewater baseball is all about. The sophomore from Virginia Beach (Cape Henry) fanned nine San Diego State batters, while allowing just five hits in six shutout innings in route to a Cavaliers 5-1 win May 29th, 2009.

Morey did all of this against the nation's top pitcher, Stephen Strasburg. Strasburg is projected to the #1 overall pick in the the 2009 MLB draft.

The Cavaliers jumped out to an early 2-0 lead after two innings of play. However, the offense came to a halt against Strasburg. When it was all said and done, Strasburg struck out 15 batters in just seven innings, allowing two earned runs.

Morey is a former Cape Henry Collegiate graduate standout. He dominated on the diamond and also provided a solid presence on the basketball court.

Tidewater Judo Club Highlight Video Clip

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 06:53:00 +0000

Should Kids Specialize in One Sport at a Young Age?

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 05:14:00 +0000

This conversation is discussed all across the country by parents of children participating in sports at a young age. Some say travel the country on "elite" teams and become a star in your desired sport. Others believe children should be free to pursue whatever sport they want. But seriously, should kids specialize in one sport at a young age?

The idea sounds good: practice in the sport you play the best, practice it a lot, and land a starting position with a big-time college. Focus on what you do best and don't toy around with other sports--after all, you wouldn't want to injure yourself while playing a sport for mere fun. Practice year-round, play in weekend tournaments, and keep good grades so college recruiters will like your resume.

That's the jist of it. Oh yeah, and while you're at it, try to have fun, maintain a social life, and pursue other interests outside of your sport.

Does this help an aspiring Division I athlete reach his/her goals? Maybe. Is it necessary? Absolutely not.

Just stop and think about some of athletes from Hampton Roads that are now great in their desired sport. Allen Iverson graduated from Bethel High in Hampton where he excelled in football and basketball. Virginia Tech quarterback Tyrod Taylor played basketball and football for the Hampton Crabbers. And Percy Harvin of the Florida Gators played football, basketball, and participated in track & field at Landstown High Schol in Virginia Beach.

Sure, some of these guys went to invitational camps, were hounded by recruiters, and probably told to specialize in one sport. But the great part is they didn't. In fact, Percy Harvin ran track his freshman year at the University of Florida. Even better, his teammate Mike Morrison of Great Bridge played football and volleyball in high school. The cool thing is despite all the efforts and pressure, these athletes played multiple sports, helped their school program, and had fun.

That's just a few names of guys that proved playing multiple sports wouldn't stop them from achieving a starting position at a higher level.

Now, I understand some sports require more intense practice than others. In other words, basketball and football are related in many ways: quickness, speed, and strength are all necessary qualities to perform well. However, with many individual sports, such as golf or bowling, you really don't need speed and quickness to be a champion. You need hours of practice.

I get that.

But if your child shows potential in basketball, tennis, swimming, or anything else, should you hold him or her back to hone in one sport? And then pursue it so fiercely that their lives revolve around it?

Here at Tidewater Sports Report, we don't think you should. But we also believe it's a personal choice. We just want everyone to have fun, enjoy sports, and continue representing Tidewater as one of the elite athletic regions in the country.

Chick-fil-A in Newport News to Sponsor 2nd Annual Chick-fil-A 5K

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 02:23:00 +0000

Chick-fil-A Yoder Plaza in Newport News, VA and Chick-fil-A Kiln Creek in Yorktown, VA are hosting their 2nd Annual Chick-fil-A 5K May 23, 2009, at the Mariners' Museum in Newport News, VA.

According to Chick-fil-A's website, there are three key reasons why one should participate in the race. It says because "you love Chick-fil-A, you love to run, and it's better than a Wii."

You can register online by clicking here, or you can pick up a registration form at Chick-fil-A in Newport News or at Chick-fil-A in Kiln Creek.

To contact either local Hampton Roads Chick-fil-A, visit its website at www.catercfa.com for more information.

Chick-fil-A Yoder Plaza

12128 Jefferson Avenue

Newport News, VA 23602

Phone: (757) 882-8844

Fax: (757) 882-8910

Chick-fil-A Kiln Creek

5003A Victory Boulevard

Yorktown, VA 23693

Phone: (757) 988-8847

Fax: (757) 988-8826

Former ODU Basketball Coach Leads Oklahoma Into Elite 8 in 2009 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 04:04:00 +0000

Jeff Capel, the head coach of the University of Oklahoma, has his Sooners one game away from the 2009 NCAA Men's Final Four in Detroit, Michigan.

Capel's collegiate coaching career began right here in Tidewater--at Old Dominion University, where he assisted his father for one year with the Monarchs' men's basketball program.

Capel faces the Tar Heels of North Carolina--whose campus is just over 100 miles from where Capel graduated high school in Hope Mills, NC--Sunday for the right to play in the Final Four.

The Sooners easily beat the Syracuse Organgemen Friday evening 84-71.

Apprentice Wrestlers Claim NCWA National Championship

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 21:35:00 +0000

The Apprentice School Builders wrestling squad earned their first ever national wrestling championship at Hampton University's Convocation Center in Hampton, Virginia.

The Newport News-based shipyard program participates in the National Collegiate Wrestling Association. To read the official press release, click here to view the Apprentice School's athletics website.

Portsmouth Invitational Tournament Update

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 05:40:00 +0000

The Portsmouth Invitational Tournament is less than a month away. To date, commitments have been received from the following players…

WHO: Robert Vaden of UAB, Ahmad Nivins of Saint Joseph’s, and Chris Johnson of LSU. Announced earlier were Virginia Tech’s A.D. Vassallo, Notre Dame’s Kyle McAlarney, and Memphis’ Robert Dozier.

WHAT: The 57th Annual Portsmouth Invitational Tournament, the nation’s oldest amateur basketball tournament, recognized by NBA and European scouts as the premier showcase for potential professional prospects.

WHEN: April 8-11, 2009.

ADMISSION: $10 per night or $30 for all 12 games of the tournament. Tickets available through Ticketmaster and through the Willett Hall box office. (NOTE: The 3:15 p.m. Thursday and Friday afternoon consolation games and Saturday’s noon and 2 p.m. games are FREE!).

WHERE: All games held in the gymnasium of Churchland High School, 4301 Cedar Lane, Portsmouth.

CONTACT: Ticket information: 757-393-5460 (Willett Hall) or 757-671-8100 (Ticketmaster). Additional information can be found at www.portsmouthinvitational.com.

**Official press release from the PIT Media Desk**

Radford University Basketball: Two Tidewater Natives to Play #1 UNC in Men's 2009 NCAA Basketball Tournament

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 21:11:00 +0000

As the nation's most popular college basketball tournament gets underway, two local Hampton Roads stars will get their shot at knocking off the University of North Carolina Tar Heels in the opening round of the 2009 Men's NCAA Basketball Tournament in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Sophomore guard Chris McEachin graduated from Norview High School in Norfolk, VA in 2007. McEachin starred and earned several Eastern District honors. Check out his entire profile at Radford's athletics website here. McEachin has played a pivotal role in the Highlanders success this season, including scoring 18 points in Radford's championship victory over Virginia Military Institute to win the 2009 Big South Conference Championship.

Aaron Austin of Newport News played for the Woodside Wolverines out of the Peninsula District. Last year, Austin played for the Massanutten Military Academy. The freshman guard has appeared in just 12 games this season and averaged 1.6 points a game.

Kings Fork Boys Basketball: State Champions in 2009; Princess Anne Girls Basketball Beats Oakton for State Championship

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 06:10:00 +0000

The Bulldogs from Kings Fork High School let the entire state of Virginia know who rules the court when it comes to high school basketball. Kings Fork beat William Fleming High School out of southwest Virginia 49-47.

According the the Virginian Pilot, Kings Fork "became just the fourth team from South Hampton Roads this decade to win the crown in Virginia’s largest classification."

To date: Phoebus High School out of the Peninsula District football carried the AAA Divison 5 state championship back to Hampton Roads. Now Kings Fork brought us back the boys AAA basketball title. The Princess Anne Cavaliers from Virginia Beach (Beach District) won the girls AAA basketball title.

I know in the baseball arena we've got a few good teams from Tidewater ready to make a run at states, and I'm sure in tennis, softball, track & field, and all the other sports we can do something special.

I've been somewhat out of the loop during this year in high school sports, so I'm sure I left some other sports out. Feel free to chime in and drop a comment so we don't leave anyone out.

Steelers' Mike Tomlin Brings Home Super Bowl Victory to Newport News, Virginia

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 03:27:00 +0000

Mike Tomlin of Newport News and the Pittsburgh Steelers won 27-23 over the Arizona Cardinals. Mike Tomlin graduated from Denbigh High School and The College of William & Mary.

This is the second consecutive year that a Hampton Roads native has won a Super Bowl ring. Last year, New York Giants receiver Plaxico Burress of Green Run High School in Virginia Beach caught the game-winning catch against one the NFL's best football teams ever, the New England Patriots.

Note: Elton Brown, a reserve guard for the Cardinals, is a Hampton High School graduate.

What is the toughest sport to play?

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 23:40:00 +0000

This question probably arises thousands of times a week across the world. In America, you might hear that football is the toughest, since it requires skill, teamwork, and physical strength unlike some other sports. In South America, well, I could see some bias in that they claim soccer or "futbol" to be the hardest.

If you ask our Mixed Martial Arts expert Curtis Clontz, he'll probably say MMA is the most difficult--and with good reason. It's a brutal sport. Not many want to be a part of that, and it truly shows how tough and skillful (mentally and physically) an individual can be. But if you ask me, I'd say playing football in the best league in the world is the toughest sport to play. The main reason I say this is because it requires a great deal of teamwork--and working together is often the downfall of many great athletes, business professionals, and families. If you can't effectively communicate with others, then the chances of achieving success is very difficult. Especially with top-notch athletes sprinting in your direction on the football field.

Football requires skill. You have to learn so many plays. I played baseball predominantly, and there is quite a bit of mental activity involved. But in football, there are so many plays to learn. It's like adding another class to your schedule, especially if you're the offensive unit. Not only is there a good deal of thinking going on, you have to be in great shape to excel. And I mean great. Watch what you eat, get the proper sleep, and be ready to use your God-given agility at any given time.

I would say MMA tops all sports categories; however, it doesn't require a ball in the sport. And I guess I'm old school in that I like sports that revolve around some round object, like golf, baseball, or basketball.

But really, think about it. What other sport requires the mental, physical, and skilled characteristics that football does?

Oh, and a little teamwork too.

Football.

Professional Baseball Players From Hampton Roads

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 04:26:00 +0000

Tidewater has awesome baseball talent. I found this video on YouTube that displays a little of the area's finest baseball players.

Listen to Top MMA News on ESPN Radio 1310 on Saturday Mornings

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 05:56:00 +0000

By Curtis Clontz

Join ESPN Radio 1310 (AM) every Saturday morning from 8-9 for great MMA action. Saturday morning I had the wonderful opportunity to be in studio and a part of the show. We had one outstanding caller, and a full hour of intense MMA talk. One of the good things about the show is that the hosts are the most knowledgeable professionals in the area. They have an intense wealth of knowledge and never disappoint. They always take phone calls and love to hear your opinion on the many different areas of the sport.

Saturday the 13th of December I will be in the studio again and want to hear from you! Both Bushido and Hybrid Academy are offering free trials if you call in to the show. TSR is officially inviting you to be a part of the action and be heard. Some of the many debates happening every day in the MMA world happen with Anderson Silva, B.J. Penn, the TUF reality show, and more. Call in and help us show the world that Hampton Roads is THE place for MMA.

Former Green Run High Superstar Shoots Himself

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 23:09:00 +0000

By Curtis Clontz

Plaxico Burress means many things to our community. He is a hero and mentor to many up and coming high school footballers that look to make the step to a higher level. Suddenly the Super Bowl champion and former Green Run superstar is in some very hot water. In what sounds more like the weird or odd news of the week Burress shot himself in the right thigh at a Manhattan nightclub this past weekend.

Burress was charged with 2 counts of second degree criminal possession of a weapon which is punishable with up to 3 and a half years of prison time. His day of destiny will be March 31 of 2009.

As time goes on more details have surfaced such as the fact that security knew that Burress was armed when he entered the club, and that the nightclub and hospital that he visited both tried to help cover up the story.

Many sports writers are holding back and not telling it like it should be. In my personal opinion this is a huge joke. Let's look at this realistically. Plaxico is a professional athlete in the National Football League. His size and strength should put him at an advantage over any average Joe at a nightclub. Many say that both of those do nothing more than make him an obvious target for trouble but don't major athletes have some sort of entourage? If UFC fighters and boxers have bodyguards don't most NFL athletes? After all, did Mike Tyson really need a bodyguard in his tenure as champ?

Another thing that I don't understand is why you would have a gun at a nightclub anyway. If the club is that bad or that rough then it doesn't sound like the place a multi millionaire should be, or anyone for that matter. Not to mention that he was partying in the VIP area of the club. Plax isn't ignorant to the fact that he is a high profile figure, especially in the state of New York. He is the star receiver for the best team in the NFL.

There is no excuse for this type of behavior. Burress is just the next on the running list of A list athletes that have had a run in with the law. Names such as Michael Vick are also on that list of trouble. The NY authorities are saying that Burress will be treated as a normal person and that he will be liable for the same penalties as you and me. This is yet to be seen, but if the Vick case is an example, Burress just may see some jail time before this is all said and done.

Hampton Roads High School Football Crush NOVA High Schools, Franklin Broncos Win By One

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 23:28:00 +0000

Oscar Smith 10, Oakton 7
Phoebus 38, Stonebridge 8
Franklin 22, William Cambell 21

Those are the final scores. I just watched a news broadcast that showed a pumped up Bill Dee, head coach of Phoebus. The players were going crazy. Darling Stadium in Hampton just added some more positive history for the books.

But it wasn't just Phoebus that won. Oscar Smith out of Chesapeake finally got past the hump and earned its first ever state championship berth. They won 10-7 in what appeared to be a tough defensive battle.

And you can't forget about those Franklin Broncos. The small high school way in the middle of nowhere again plays great football, and they too will be representing Tidewater in a state championship game next week.

Phoebus Phantoms Rule the Eastern Region for D5 Teams

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 06:08:00 +0000

Yeah, that's right. Bill Dee's Phoebus Phantoms from the Peninsula District showed the entire Southside what type of ball the city of Hampton can play. In front of a large crowd at Harbor Park in Norfolk, Virginia, Phoebus traveled across the water to prove their dominance with a 14-0 shutout of Lake Taylor from Norfolk.

Despite an early turnover, the Phantoms remained persistent on defense and shut down a very good squad from the Southside.

I'm a huge fan of Tidewater sports, but I have always had an unusal interest in comparing and contrasting the Peninsula and Southside. The Peninsula certainly produces awesome football and basketball talent. Consider Michael Vick or Allen Iverson (By the way, Vick will in the Surry Count courts this Tuesday, November 25 for yet another hearing.).

The Southside absuletly RULES for baseball. Hands down. Michael Cuddyer, David Wright, the Upton brothers, and Ryan Zimmerman are some big names worth mentioning. There also tons of young prospects, like the 2007 graduate of Kempsville High, Neil Ramirez.

Yeah, Landstown has one of college football's most exciting football players in Percy Harvin. Trust me, I've been following the guy since his junior year. I watched every playoff game his senior year, when QB Donny Kirby and Damien McDaniel (now with Hampton University) tore up the state with offense.

But I'm just talking about the major sports. If you really want to get technical, Tabb High's David Walters was swimming in the waters with guys like Michael Phelps. And Tabb is a AA school in the Bay Rivers District.

The argument has gone on for years, and it will likely continue to in the future. But for now, Phoebus owns bragging rights for the Peninsula.

Atlantic Coast Conference Preview Part 1 by Curtis Clontz

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 06:08:00 +0000

In ACC country it is the time where Tarheels, Terps, and Blue Devils begin to flourish. November is the time when the college basketball season starts and the teams make their final preparations for the upcoming season. At this point many of the ACC teams have their roster and lineups are set. It is time to fine tune and get ready for the first part of the season. TSR will be at the forefront of the conference for coverage throughout the year, especially the teams in NC and VA. This is the TSR ACC preview. If you agree or disagree let us know!

Boston College

BC opened practice on Oct 18th and will look to senior Tyrese Rice to lead them with his experience and floor leadership. Rice is considered to be one of the top guards in the ACC this season. The Eagles will look to improve on their 14-17 record of last year and make a surprising run to the top of the conference. Just like last season BC will be young outside of Rice. They are returning 4 tough sophomores and 3 freshmen that will all get minutes. Wining will rely on the back court and Rice will have this team on his shoulders. Coach Al Skinner thinks the front court isn't bad and that this team has the capability to make some sort of splash and be able to upset some teams this season. The most important person not named Rice will be freshman Dallas Elmore. Elmore is a 6-5 guard that is not afraid to get dirty and play defense. He may be called upon to be the second man in this young but talented team. However, eagle fans lets not get crazy yet, this team is very young and are not as talented as most of the ACC this season. They will beat some teams they aren't supposed too, but it may end their. BC could be a team to upset someone in the ACC tourney but don't expect them to e playing in late March.

Clemson

The purple and orange are fresh off an impressive season last year that ended with the Tigers doing some dancing of their own in the NCAA tournament. In terms of moving the right direction, Oliver Parnell has this team doing well. Last season they finished 3rd in the ACC and made it to the championship game in the ACC Tournament. Over the past 2 years they have won 49 wins alone. Some of that record is great wins, but some is also great scheduling. This season will be much of the same. The Tiger's out of conference schedule is far from impressive, and come March that could hurt them if they take a beating from the other ACC teams. Clemson will rely on 3 returning starting from last year to carry them throughout the season. Trevor Booker and K.C. Rivers will be the leading 2 as this team tries to breakout and surprise some teams in the ACC. Pack your suit case and be prepared to be on the bubble. This team should be in, but will rely on a few key wins or losses to have them dancing.

Duke

The Duke Blue Devils have their coach back from a very successful summer. He led Team USA back to the top of the medal podium, and he hopes to return the devils back to the final four. Unfortunately for Coach K Chris Bosh or anything close will not be stepping through the doors at Cameron anytime soon. The good news is that this will be one of the most senior Duke teams in recent memory. They are returning 4 starters and as always new talent walked in the door. They will have one of the best back courts in the league and may have a senior captain coming off the bench. It is official, Nolan Smith has stolen the job from Paulus. Expect this team to make a splash this season. They are going to be a team far different than the past few. They will have depth, leadership, but most of all they will be able to play like Duke. Expect this team to be 2nd in the ACC (but could steal if UNC falls asleep) and be in the talks for a #1 seed in the dance. This will be the year they break the latest poor showing in March.

Get Pumped for some Old Dominion Mixed Martial Arts!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 04:57:00 +0000

If you have not bought tickets to the upcoming Cagefest show you arerunning out of time. This insane card is a first of its kind in Hampton Roads Virginia. Never have you been able to drive to the Ted and seethis kind of action. Fighters such as Antwain Britt, Tommy Speer, BeauBaker and more will be sharing their athletic talents for the largeviewing crowd. Britt and Speer have both been a part of the UFC's reality show The Ultimate Fighter and are huge talents in themselves.This is not an amateur fight card. This is all pro! No scrubs, theseguys are legit and will put on a show.

The event will take place November 15th at the ODU Ted Constant Center.Tickets can be purchased here. Get them early. There is a chance that this event will sell out. You don't want to bethe guy the next day that missed out!

More information on the fights can be found at http://www.cagefest.com/.

MMA Breaking News: Breaking News: Antwain Britt to Fight Nov. 15th

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 04:54:00 +0000

By Curtis Clontz

Saturday November 15th will be a huge night for MMA in Southeastern Virginia. One of the fastest rising superstars on the planet Antwain Britt makes his long awaited return to the cage. If you are from the VA Beach area then you have heard about Britt as he has grown in the MMA game, if not then you know him from The Ultimate Fighter. Either way you know who this guy is! The Juggernaut will be battling against C. T. “The Hulk” Turner. Turner gives the state of Kentucky something to root for other than the Wildcats or Cardinals, but will be fighting Antwain in front of his own hometown crowd in Virginia.

Turner has had an impressive 3-0 start to his pro record but will have his hands full in this fight! C.T. has a decent overall game but is best known for his BJJ. He is fresh off of a TKO victory in September. The Hulk's nickname fits as he looks to be in shape from his previous fight, however he will be smaller than Antwain. On TUF it was said that Britt is a little on the small side, but you will be hard pressed to find someone who agrees, especially his opponents. Antwain will be bigger and taller than Turner which will place Turner in no man's land. Which just so happens to be right in Britt's punching range. Everyone knows that Antwain has exceptional power and striking skills but he is also rumored to have a very solid ground game and if this match up goes beyond the first minute we may get to see it.

C.T. Turner seems to be a late addition to the fight as it was earlier rumored that Antwain was going to be fighting former UFC champion Dan “The Beast” Severn but the fight never materialized. Severn vs. Britt would have been a huge fight in the Tidewater area, but Turner will be no slouch. This will be a very entertaining fight. There will not be a bad seat in the house and you will not want to miss this event! In the future details on the additional fights and fight card that will include H.I.T Squad member and former TUF participant Tommy Speers will be provided. In the mean time check out Antwain's blog at http://www.antwainbritt.com/. If you have a comment or question for him post it in the comments, he has been known to check out the site and always gets back with a fan!

2008 World Series: Can Tidewater Sports Star B.J. Upton Carry the Rays in Game 5?

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 21:25:00 +0000

The Phillies destroyed B.J. Upton and the Rays. Their pitching, defense, and offense all around played better ball. That's fine. It happens every now and then, even to the best. But that has to change if the Rays want to play back in Florida in front of their home crowd one more time.

B.J., or Bossman Junior as the Fox announcers love to say, has the chance to really show what Tidewater sports are all about. He got tons of attention (and still will) in Game 3 when he reached first with his speedy legs. He then stole second base, took third, and then scored on a bad throw. Yeah, he was definitely representing Hampton Roads (or the 757) pretty well.

Last night, however, he wasn't too hot. In fact, it was quite ugly. But I'm not knocking the guy--he's a pro and way better than I ever was. The fact is he is in the spotlight and playing in the World Series against the best of the best.

I'm just anxiously awaiting him to really shine on the national stage. He will likely get four or five chances at the plate to put a pitch in the bleachers and drive in runs.

Writing about will do nothing. Just thought I'd drop in my thoughts, as I can't wait to watch him take some more cuts at the plate.

I want to know what you think.

Can Upton show the Phillies who's boss?

Hampton Roads Native B.J. Upton and Tampa Bay Rays Reach 2008 World Series

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 05:40:00 +0000

Attention Tidewater sports fans: B.J. Upton and the Tampa Bay Rays clinched a seat in the 2008 World Series with a 3-1 over the Boston Red Sox in Game 7.

Yes, the Greenbrier Christian graduate and Chesapeake stud will be representing all of the 757 as he and the Rays take on the Philadelphia Phillies. In case you missed the Phillies play this post-season, they have looked pretty good--losing just two games so far.

Baseball is a team sport. But some players contribute more sometimes, and that's what B.J. did against the Red Sox. He knocked four home runs and drove in 11 runs for the Rays in seven games against Boston. If these stats aren't impressive enough for you, then hop over to Yahoo! Sports where they dedicated an entire article about Upton's terrific play this series.

Curtis Sounds Off: Is MMA Too Dangerous?

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 07:37:00 +0000

By Curtis Clontz

It has been a while since I have been able to post a Curtis Sounds Off. In the past month things have been kind of crazy, but in a good way. As you know, I bring MMA to the forefront of TSR. Lately, I have been trying to extend our coverage and promote the site. On Saturday (4th of October) I had the opportunity to co-host the new radio show on ESPNRadio 1310 here in VA Beach. It was a great time. I was able to share my views with the guys from The Flight Zone as well as spend some time with the producer after the show.

If you didn’t hear it, you really missed out. It can be heard every Sat morning from 8-9. They are always having a give a way and contests, so call in and win something! This Saturday give them a call during the show and tell them you want me back! I will be in studio so I should be able to talk to you as well.

Another thing that I have done recently is co-host an MMA related podcast on www.mmaopinion.com. Just in case, a Podcast is an internet radio show. In the future TSR may start a podcast. If that is something you would like to hear let us know.

The newest podcast can be found here. In it we talk about the recent EliteXC event where internet superstar Kimbo Slice was defeated. There was continuous drama from the weigh-ins and the event. Kimbo Slice was supposed to fight against Ken Shamrock. Yea the same Ken Shamrock that hasn’t won a fight in 4 years, fought in the UFC, and was a pro wrestler… Head over and check it out!

Since I have been gone, I want to hear from you. What is new in your neck of the woods? What is the biggest story you have heard of lately? Baseball is almost over, do you care? Hockey started--does anyone south of Canada care?

I would also like to know what your opinions are about MMA. Do you like it? Is it a barbaric sport that should be outlawed, or is it an extreme sport that should be on the X Games? I hope to hear from you all very soon!

B.J. Upton of Chesapeake, Virginia, Knocking The Tampa Bay Rays Into 2008 ALCS

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 05:55:00 +0000

Former Greenbrier Christian Academy Gator standout B.J. Upton of Chesapeake, Virginia, is part of a dynamic Tampa Bay Rays baseball squad heading into the 2008 American League Championship Series.

Upton started the American League Division Series off very slowly, but picked things up in closing out the Chicago White Sox as he knocked two home runs at U.S. Celluar Field in Chicago, Illinois.

Upton was the second overall draft pick in 2002. His younger brother, Justin, was the top pick in 2005. Justin plays for the Arizona Diamondbacks as an outfielder.

Last season Justin entered the National League Championship Series with the Diamondbacks. This year, his older brother has the opportunity to battle it out with a heated matchup with the Boston Red Sox, who beat the Los Angeles Angles in four games.

Here's a video of B.J. when he was quite a bit younger.

Antwain Britt Talks About Having to Leave The Ultimate Fighter

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 11:53:00 +0000

By Curtis Clontz

The unthinkable has happened to our Hampton Roads hometown hero. In every sport, injuries can dramatically change the focus of a game or season.

Antwain Britt has realized this first hand. On the second episode of The Ultimate Fighter, Britt was dropped because of an injury.

Although this is a big deal, Britt continues to smile and look at things in a positive light. I had the opportunity to talk to Antwain and get his thoughts on the second episode of TUF as well as his injury.

Interview

Curtis Clontz: First off, let's talk about the show and episode 2. The first fight they showed was one with British fighter Wesley Murch. He mentioned in an interview before the fight that he felt that he had the weight of the UK on his shoulders. Do you think some of the fighters on the show that lost put too much unnecessary pressure on themselves?

Antwain Britt: No, it was a lot of different reasons they lost, mostly because they were outmatched. Wesley was in charge of his fight; it sucks that he rolled his ankle; the flying knee attempt didn't make it any better though. Different people handle pressure in different ways, some crumble and some thrive.

CC: Other than your news, the final part of the show was the fight between Eliot Marshall and Karn Grigoryan. Almost everyone seeing this fight scored in favor of Marshall, how did you score it?

AB: I scored the fight for Karn. He was aggressive and stopped his sub. attempts.

CC: Did the coaches ever emphasize finishing fights and not going to a decision?

AB: Oh yeah, its all about finishing. Never leave it in the judges' hands.

CC: Frank Mir's assistant coach Ken Hahn said some great things about you in a recent interview (MMAJunkie.com), saying things like "Antwain Britt impressed me with his hunger for knowledge" and "He improved at least 30 percent in the time that I spent holding pads for him, which only lasted about 20 minutes." Tell us about your experiences with the coaches. Who was your favorite? What was the most important thing you learned from them?

AB: Ken was the man. He taught me a lot in the little bit of time. Frank Mir was a great coach. You can tell he loves to teach. I rolled with him and he is sick on the ground, nothing new about that though.

Frank Mir is considered to have one of the top Jui Jitsu games of any heavyweight fighter in UFC history. This was never more apparent than when he submitted a much larger opponent in Brock Lesnar in his last fight. Mir will step into the cage against a rival coach in this season's TUF after the show ends.

CC: Sorry to hear about the injury. On the show they didn't talk about it much, what happened? I am guessing it was all of the blocking he did with his face, right?

AB: Ha, yea. He dropped his head a lot, he did it during one of my onslaughts, I threw an overhand right and hit him right on top of the head. I felt it as soon as I did it. It was shortly into the 1st round. I walked to my corner after the round and told Ken and Robert (Mir's coaches) that I might have broken it. They asked can I go and I said "hell yeah" and I went. I had a great second round, beat him in every range and won. Frank told me how much heart and talent I had. It felt great to hear that from a guy like Frank Mir.

CC: At what point did you know you weren't going to be able to stay in the house and fight for your chance to be The Ultimate Fighter? You did know well before Dana told everyone in the meeting right?

AB: Yes, as soon as they x-rayed the hand I knew it was over. That is a horrible feeling, knowing you did everything you had to do to get where you needed to be, now this. I have never been injured in a fight until then. It was like "not me, not now." Especially when you know how hard you've worked and how much you've given up.

CC: On the show it appeared that they said you're gone and that was it… Was it really that easy?

AB: No, we had exit interviews, medicals. I talked with Dana and that's about all I can say about that.

CC: Looking at the 205-pounders that made it in the house, who do you feel would have given you the biggest challenge?

AB: They were all good but if I had to pick I would say Ryan Bader. He's a good wrestler and strong. Krystof is a hard striker so I would say one of those guys but I think I would have done REALLY well!

CC: Do you feel that barring your injury that you could have won the show?

AB: YES! I would have won the show!

Not making it on the show is not the end of the world. UFC fighter John Fitch was supposed to be cast for the first season of the show, but at the last minute was held off. He made an incredible run in the 170-pound division and won 8 straight fights until finally suffering his first loss in the UFC against George St. Pierre in a title shot. The show is a great recruiting tool and has provided the sport with great talent. It did provide the UFC with a first-hand look at Antwain and hopefully this isn't the end of Britt's run to the UFC.

CC: Enough with rubbing the salt into the wounds, I have heard that you have been doing good things lately. I heard you on ESPN Radio as well as seen your new website. Have you had a positive feedback from the fans since being on the show?

AB: Yeah, it's really busy for me. The fans' feedback is great, the fans are great. I love to get photos and emails from my fans so keep sending them. Check out my blog on antwainbritt.com and hit me at antwainbritt@gmail.com.

CC: How is training coming along?

AB: Good man, training like I would if I was fighting so stay tuned.

CC: Finally, the most important question and the one that I keep hearing the most, when can we expect to see The Juggernaut fighting again?

AB: I'm fighting at the Patriot Center on Oct.11 vs. Terry Cohen for UWC, should be a good one he's a tough guy!

Terry Cohen is a fighter out of Palatka Florida. He has a record of 3-1.

As always, Antwain was more than happy to answer questions. Stay tuned to TSR for more from Antwain and local MMA.

TSR Exclusive! The Antwain Britt Interview

noreply@blogger.com (Phillip Hines) — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 16:54:00 +0000

Get more pictures like this from SHERDOG.COM

By Curtis Clontz

The Ultimate Fighter is the biggest and baddest MMA reality series of them all! Champions and many contenders have risen to fame due to the show. Virginia Beach’s own Antwain Britt could be the next in line for MMA superstardom.

This past Wednesday, Antwain made his TUF debut, as they aired the first show of the season. Antwain was shown several times talking throughout the show. They also showed his fight which awarded him a bed in the TUF house.

Britt is a very busy man but took time out of his schedule to conduct an interview with me. We here at TSR will continue to be on the forefront of the Antwain Britt story as he climbs to the top, as well as your one stop place for Tidewater MMA.

If you have anything that you would like to ask Antwain, leave it in the comments section. I will do my best to get it to him and provide you with an answer.

The Interview

Curtis Clontz: First off, congratulations on making in onto the show. That in itself is a huge accomplishment.

Antwain Britt: Thank you, it feels good to be noticed for something you love doing so much.

CC: Before we talk about the show, tell me about your MMA career before the show?

AB: Well, I was 5-0 as an ammy with 4 K.O's and as a pro I'm 5-0 with 5 K.O's. Needless to say I'm a striker.

Note from Curtis:

Antwain is definitely a striker. He has won most of his fights in less than 1:30 and comes from Hybrid which is known for their striking.

CC: You train at Hybrid Academy of Martial Arts in VA Beach. Tell us about that school and how it has prepared you for this moment.

AB: Well, my coach Buck Grant told me from my first fight that I had the potential to be very good. From that point I trained up and with the help of some good sparring partners, and good conditioning I'm where I am now. I believe that if I would have gotten with any other camp I would be nowhere as good as I am now.

CC: Tell me about the TUF tryout. Did it have the feel of football tryouts? What all did they have you do to show your skills?

AB: Actually, I didn't have to tryout. Joe Silva (the match maker for the UFC) contacted me and asked would I like him to send my info to the producers of the show. Three days later I got a call from them. I put a video of my fights together and training footage and I got invited to Vegas.

CC: There is no question that you are the next big thing to come out of Virginia Beach. On the first episode of this season, fans around the world will get their first glimpse of you. For those fans, is there anything you want to say?

AB: Yes, I'd like to thank them in advance. You have to realize that three years ago I was a regular working stiff. I'm thankful to be where I am now. I'm always aware of what the fans need from me. I'll always take the extra pic or sign the extra autograph for my people. It's been said but I really do love my fans.

Note from Curtis:
Antwain has always been more than happy to do an interview, answer questions, or provide me information. Success has not gone to his head, and he is one of the most down to earth professional athletes you will ever meet.

CC: When you showed up with the other guys and had a chance to fight your way onto the show, what was the mood like in the room?

AB: It was a cloud of insecurity. There were so many guys from so many different parts of the world, nobody knew anyone else. So needless to say the tension was thick. There were a lot of good guys there and I made some good friends.

CC: Dana White has said the next Anderson Silva is on this season's TUF--that's you right?

AB: Damn right, (laughing). No, I'm not sure who he was talking about, but my goal is to put on a show!

CC: We have seen from the previews that one fighter had a very hard time cutting the weight. I know you had to cut a good amount of weight for the show--did you have any problems?

AB: Na, no problems with weight. I eat pretty well year round so I stay pretty close. I cut weight in a smart way also. I stepped off the plane about 210lb.

CC: Did the UFC or associated officials do anything to assist with the weight cutting or did they step back and let you guys do what you do?

AB: They set us up with everything we needed to cut, but the work was on us.

CC: In every season of TUF many of the fighters have changed weight classes after the show. What do you think the main reason is for this, and does it hurt or help the UFC?

AB: You always want to be the big fish, I'd rather be a huge 205er then a small heavyweight. I think that’s the biggest reason. I think if you have the talent then the weight class doesn’t matter.

CC: How early once taping started did the coaches start helping?

AB: Immediately, the coaches were great. I’ve always been a Frank Mir fan, now even more so.

CC: Did your opinion about the UFC change after being on the show?

AB: Not at all. The UFC is the big dawgs of MMA.

CC: At this time, what is your goal in MMA?

AB: To be the biggest star I possibly can through quality wins and a sound business plan.

CC: Are there any sponsors or anyone that you would like to thank?

AB: For sure. I'd like to thank Max nutrition, XS energy drink, 55gear, Fightniteoutlets, Swampdogkennels, Igoo designs, Star mouthguards, Team Hybrid and Patriot fighter and all my team at Hybrid academy.

CC: In closing, do you have any additional comments about the show or anything you want to share?

AB: Tune in Wednesdays at 10pm [on the Spike channel] to see me do my thing.

Keep up with Britt by Signing up for Free TSR Email Alerts

If you did tune in, then you saw what the juggernaut is all about. Antwain is truly a force to be reckoned with in the cage. Make sure you tune in next week and see what trouble the fighters cause, as well as follow Britt in his quest to be The Ultimate Fighter.

If you have not signed up for email alerts when a new story drops on TSR, this is the time! News about Britt, MMA, local sports, and our column of Curtis Sounds Off will be uploaded frequently.