Detroit Sports by In Play! Magazine

Michigan Sports Hall of Fame 55th Induction Class

2011-06-30T12:31:00.000-04:00

MICHIGAN SPORTS HALL OF FAME INDUCTION EVENT RETURNS TO SUBURBAN COLLECTION SHOWPLACE FOR 2^ND CONSECUTIVE YEAR

OAKLAND COUNTY EXECUTIVE L. BROOKS PATTERSON

AND DETROIT MAYOR DAVE BING TO SERVE AS HONORARY CHAIRMEN

Waterford, Mich. (June 24, 2011) -- The Michigan Sports Hall of Fame (MSHOF) announced today that a new class will be formally enshrined on Thursday, Sept. 15, 2011 at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi – marking the 55th Induction Event in the Hall’s history. Class members are:

· MSU All-American and NFL All-Pro linebacker from Flint Beecher H.S., Carl Banks

· Detroit Mackenzie H.S., Notre Dame, and NFL All-Pro running back, Jerome Bettis

· 1997 National Champion head football coach at the University of Michigan, Lloyd Carr

· UM softball coach, led team to 2005 NCAA National Championship, Carole Hutchins

· Former Detroit Lions’ All-Pro defensive back and NFL Hall of Famer, Dick LeBeau

· Top

U.S.

distance runner, last American to win the Boston Marathon, Greg Meyer

· Local fast-pitch softball legend and ASA Hall of Famer from Detroit, John Spring

· Former Detroit DePorres’ H.S. head football coach, youth sports mentor, Ron Thompson

MICHIGAN SPORTS HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCES 2011 INDUCTION EVENT, OAKLAND COUNTY EXECUTIVE L. BROOKS PATTERSON AND DETROIT MAYOR DAVE BING TO SERVE AS HONORARY CHAIRMEN.

“We are very excited to announce the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame’s 55^th Induction Event will return to the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi,” said Scott Lesher, MSHOF chairman. “We greatly appreciate the support of our Honorary Co-Chairs’ Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson and City of Detroit Mayor Dave Bing, and look forward to a tremendous evening of honoring the inductees in an exciting setting that promises to be the Academy Awards of sports in Michigan.”

Patterson said he is looking forward to the MSHOF Induction Event returning to Oakland County. “This is a premier event for Oakland County and southeast Michigan,” said Patterson. “We are building on last year’s success when more than 900 individuals attended the induction ceremony.”

Patterson added that he wants the MSHOF to find a new home in Oakland County. “If the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame were to relocate here, it would enhance the quality of life for Oakland County and southeast Michigan residents.”

The MSHOF’s 55th Induction Event will begin at 5 p.m. with a private VIP reception. Festivities will include a strolling dinner reception beginning at 6 p.m. followed by the induction ceremony. More than 100 current Hall of Famers have been invited to honor this induction class.

“We are thrilled to announce that our event is returning to the Suburban Collection Showplace,” said Jim Stark, executive director of the MSHOF. “It’s an honor to have the support of L. Brooks Patterson as a home for the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame in Oakland County.”

Tickets and further information for the MSHOF’s 54th Induction Event will be available beginning July 1 by calling 248-473-0656, or by visiting the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame’s Web site (http://www.michigansportshof.org/).

A limited number of the private, VIP reception tickets are available at $225, general event tickets are $125 and a special youth ticket for those 15 and under is priced at $75. Ticket packages and group rates are also available.

FRED PLETSCH NAMED CCHA COMMISSIONER

2011-05-02T19:18:00.000-04:00

Ten-year member of league staff chosen to head CCHA

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. – Fred Pletsch, a member of the Central Collegiate Hockey Association staff since 2001, has been named Commissioner of the CCHA following league meetings in Naples, Fla. Pletsch had been serving as Interim Commissioner since March 23, when former Commissioner Tom Anastos resigned to become head coach at Michigan State.

Fred Pletsch

“Fred steps into the Commissioner’s role at an important time for the CCHA,” said Greg Christopher, Chair of the CCHA Council and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics at Bowling Green State University. “He has been integrally involved in the direction of the conference for nearly a decade, and understands the details of the position along with the broader vision necessary to lead the CCHA. All 11 institutions have confidence in Fred and believe that he is the right person to help us navigate the future.”

Previously, Pletsch served as the CCHA’s associate commissioner (2008-11) and director of communications (2001-2008).

“I would like to thank the CCHA membership for providing me this opportunity to continue to serve a league with such great tradition and history,” Pletsch said. “The CCHA staff is committed to maintaining the high standards of service and professionalism that have become synonymous with the conference. Together, we look forward to meeting the challenges and exploring the opportunities presented by college hockey’s changing landscape.”

Prior to joining the CCHA, the Canton, Mich., resident served as Commissioner of the Junior ‘A’ North American Hockey League for three years. During that time, NAHL teams graduated over 150 players to the NCAA Division I ranks.

The CCHA recently completed its 40th season of play and held the CCHA Championship at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit for the 30th consecutive year.

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U.S. Women's National Team Downs Russia, 13-1, at 2011 IIHF World Women's Championship

2011-04-18T13:08:00.000-04:00


Knight Totals Three Goals, Three Assists

ZURICH - Led by a six-point effort from Hilary Knight (Sun Valley, Idaho), the U.S. Women's National Team rolled to a 13-1 victory over Russia here today at the 2011 International Ice Hockey Federation World Women's Championship at Hallenstadion. Fourteen U.S. players factored in the scoring, including seven with multi-point games. "We had a lot of offense," said Katey Stone, head coach for Team USA and also the head women's ice hockey coach at Harvard University. "We moved the puck well, really got our feet moving and utilized every player - overall, it was a great effort." Team USA got off to a strong start, piling on five goals in the opening frame within an 8:18 span. Knight first put a slap shot inside the near post from the left faceoff dot on the power play at 7:03, followed by Anne Schleper (St. Cloud, Minn.) shooting the puck through Russian netminder Valentina Ostrovlyanchik's legs from the slot at 9:25. Just over a minute later, Jenny Potter (Edina, Minn.) sent a pass to Julie Chu (Fairfield, Conn.), who found the back of the net with a one-time shot from the slot at 10:42. Angela Ruggiero (Simi Valley, Calif.) and Meghan Duggan (Danvers, Mass.) closed out the period's scoring with goals at 12:14 and 15:21 for a 5-0 U.S. advantage. In the middle frame, the Americans tacked on three more goals, including two on the power play, before Russia got on the board in the final second of the period to make it 8-1. Caitlin Cahow (Vinalhaven, Maine) and Knight scored with the extra attacker at 6:20 and 11:33 before Decker knocked one in from the right post at 11:56. Yekaterina Lebedeva was the goal-scorer for Russia at 19:59. Knight completed her hat trick with another power-play marker at 6:41 of the third period, then Kelli Stack (Brooklyn Heights, Ohio) scored on a wrap-around play at 8:07. Kendall Coyne (Palos Heights, Ill.) gave the U.S. a 10-goal advantage at 10:35 before Kacey Bellamy (Westfield, Mass.) knocked in a pass from Stack at 11:55. Ruggiero closed out the scoring with Team USA's fifth power-play goal of the outing at 15:40. Molly Schaus (Natick, Mass.) made 19 saves in the winning effort, while Ostrovlyanchik stopped 44 for Russia. Team USA returns to action with its third and final preliminary-round game against Sweden on Wednesday (April 20) at 8 p.m. (2 p.m. EDT) in Winterthur, Switzerland.

CCHA COMISH RESIGNS TO BECOME HEAD COACH AT MICHIGAN

2011-03-23T14:56:00.000-04:00

CCHA Commissioner Tom Anastos RESIGNS TO BECOME HEAD COACH AT MICHIGAN STATE

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. – The CCHA today announced that Tom Anastos, the league’s Commissioner since March of 1998, has tendered his resignation to accept the position of head hockey coach at Michigan State University.

“Congratulations to Tom and his family; this is a terrific opportunity,” stated Greg Christopher, Bowling Green State University Director of Athletics and Chair of the CCHA Council.

“On behalf of everyone in the CCHA, we thank Tom for his 13 years of leadership. As Commissioner, Tom helped elevate the CCHA to the top of college hockey. We move forward with a strong foundation in place. The Executive Committee and full Council are committed to the future of the CCHA. Our ongoing conversations about the future shape of the CCHA will continue. The CCHA staff is a strong and cohesive group, with the ability to keep things moving forward. Fred Pletsch has been involved with the league for 10 years and understands our vision. Fred is best positioned to lead the CCHA during this transition and will assume the role of Interim Commissioner. In the coming weeks, we will finalize search plans for our next Commissioner, then communicate and move forward accordingly.”

Anastos, who is No. 46 on The Hockey News list of 100 People of Power and Influence in the sport, enjoyed a four-year playing career at Michigan State during which the Spartans swept the regular-season and playoff titles each year. He has served as a hockey administrator for the past sixteen seasons.

“I am excited about returning to my alma mater to lead the Spartan hockey program to national prominence,” stated Anastos.

“That said, my 13 years as CCHA Commissioner have been special. I am proud of what we have collectively built in this league and I know there’s a bright future for the CCHA. Even beyond the horizon of Big Ten hockey, the eight CCHA institutions are committed to excellence in Division 1 hockey. In the coming weeks, I’ll work with Fred and the Executive Committee to make sure there is a seamless transition in the league office.”

Pletsch was hired by the CCHA in September of 2001 as the league’s Director of Communications and promoted to the position of Associate Commissioner in 2007. He will work with Anastos, Christopher and the CCHA Executive Committee in the transition process, which is expected to be completed around the next scheduled league meetings in Naples, Fla., on April 25-27.

The CCHA just completed its 40th season of play with over 15,000 fans at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit to watch the Miami RedHawks capture their first league playoff championship with a 5-2 victory over the Western Michigan Broncos, who were making their first appearance in the title game since 1986. Miami and Western Michigan join Michigan and Notre Dame this coming weekend to represent the CCHA in the NCAA Men’s Division I Ice Hockey Tournament. The conference has produced eight national champions since forming in the 1971-72 season.

MMA at the Place - Large Crowd Has Promoter Excited for the Future

2011-02-21T11:46:00.001-05:00

Promoter Joseph Donofrio

Promoter Joseph Donofrio was the beating heart of professional boxing and MMA in Detroit long before the Ultimate Fighting Championship temporarily set up camp at his home base of The Palace of Auburn Hills last November.

For years Donofrio has been putting on Palace events that rival big-name productions in every way, while utilizing local support staff (the UFC did not) and featuring local fighters (UFC 123 had none) at a reasonable ticket price ($10-$30 compared to the UFC’s $50-$400 range).

Donofrio has given his blood, sweat and tears and has seen some large crowds at his events. And that’s why he admits feeling more than a little discouraged watching his city and 16,000 of its MMA fans eagerly support the UFC organization that just as quickly packed up and took off out of town with their $2 million live gate.

But after 5000+ fans showed up at the Palace for his recent “St. Valentine’s Day Massacre” MMA event, things seem to be looking up — and it may be the UFC that Donofrio has to thank.

“For years people in this area were dying for the UFC to come back to Detroit,” he explains, “And I think they had built up what one would be like in person so much that maybe they were less enthused for any other promotion’s events. But now that they’ve come and gone, and people realize how little difference there really is in the shows we put on compared to theirs, they’re getting a lot more pumped up for our events. Tonight’s crowd showed that.”

With flames shooting into the sky, rolling fog, dancing girls, highly competitive fights with an emphasis on local talent, special celebrity guests and all the usual extras Donofrio offers, St. Valentine’s Day Massacre felt like the turning point in Detroit’s support of its own vibrant MMA scene.

Finally, they get it.

14 fights were held in all, many offering more excitement than the disappointing UFC 123 had provided, headlined by a middleweight championship battle between reigning 185-lb Impact Fight League titlist Brendan Seguin and Chicago veteran Hector Urbina.

The more experienced Seguin used his superior wrestling skills to take Urbina down and ultimately land successive elbow strikes that rolled Urbina’s eyes to the back of his head.

The first-round TKO stoppage came at 3:51.

Other Results

Terry Davinny def. Caleb Grummet via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Josh Taveirne def. Victor Torres via submission (rear-naked choke) at 3:01 of round 1

Joe Battaglia def. Javon Prewitt via KO (punches) at 0:47 of round 1

Cody Stevens def. Tito Jones via submission (triangle choke)

Scott Ferguson def. Tim Farr via submission (rear-naked choke) at 3:43 of round 2

Jason Fischer def. Andy Peterson via TKO (strikes) at 0:12 of round 2

Adam Kelso def. Josh Taibl via KO (punches) at 0:11 of round 1

Corey O’ Dell def. David Savare via TKO (strikes) in round 1

Ryan Scheeper vs. Jason Davis ends in a no-contest due to strikes to the back of the head after Scheeper is unable to continue.

Mike Hernandez def. Chad Coon via KO (punch) at 4:30 of round 1

Todd Allee def. Aaron Ware via split decision

Ivan Wolshlager def. Dan Langbeen via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-28)

Josh Burns def. Jeff Kugel via TKO (strikes) at 2:52 of round 1

MMA host Kristi King of Windsor talks fighting, Detroit sports, Cape Town

2011-02-18T14:36:00.000-05:00

Detroit Free Press
By MIKE BRUDENELL
DETROIT FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

Windsor’s Kristi King hopes to be working in South Africa’s spectacular city of Cape Town this summer, where she’d be modeling for Sports Illustrated. But first the fourth-grade school teacher and graduate from Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, has a date at the Palace tonight.

King, 25, will be hosting the professional mixed martial arts “St. Valentine’s Day Massacre” event there, an evening of full-contact fighting promoted by the Impact Fight League and Donofrio Entertainment. King was named the Impact Fight League Ring Girl of the Year in 2010. The Free Press caught up with her earlier this week.

QUESTION: MMA isn’t a photo shoot. There will be blood. How’s your stomach?
ANSWER: “Look, I love boxing – the jabs, uppercuts. I work out, throw punches. Cage fighting is a little more intense. I’m amazed the fighters can get up after being taken down on their backs. But it is exciting. The blood, well, I might have to peak through my fingers, but, really, it’s the skill I enjoy.”

Q: Like to have a fight?
A: “No, I’ll stick to meeting the fans, signing autographs and having fun outside of the cage, thanks.”

Article continues in the Detroit Free Press
http://www.freep.com/article/20110218/SPORTS18/110218030/MMA-host-Kristi-King-Windsor-talks-fighting-Detroit-sports-Cape-Town

The Michigan Sports Hall of Fame exhibit runs at the Detroit Historical Museum through April 3rd

2011-02-15T15:20:00.001-05:00

The Michigan Sports Hall of Fame in partnership with the Detroit Historical Society, presents a spirited, interactive exhibit featuring an exciting theme highlighting comebacks and championships by local sports teams. The exhibit, which runs through Sunday, April 3 in the Detroit Historical Museum's Community Gallery, highlights both team and individual triumphs throughout the years.

From the Detroit Red Wings amazing stretch as the best team in hockey following years of being the league doormat, to the Detroit Tigers remarkable comeback against the St. Louis Cardinals in 1968, this engaging presentation will evoke nostalgic memories for sports fans.

"The sights, sounds and excitement of this exhibit will offer visitors a unique reflection of our beloved Tigers, Lions, Pistons, Red Wings, Wolverines and Spartans through highlighted stories of comebacks with engaging videos and authentic displays," said Scott Lesher, MSHOF chairman.

Positive messages of teamwork, persistence, faith and other encouraging elements will invite visitors to take home a feeling of inspiration relevant to their lives - especially during our state's economic comeback journey.

This exciting new exhibit is presented by Comcast, with supporting sponsors Ford Motor Driving Skills, First Michigan Bank and Delta.

Join us on February 23 at the DHM Exhibit to celebrate the announcement of the 2011 Class of the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame. Click here to buy tickets to the exclusive event.

February 20, 2011

Michigan Sports Hall of Famer and longtime Detroit Lions kicker Eddie Murray will be at the MSHOF Exhibit at the Detroit Historical Museum this Sunday February 20 signing free autographs from 1 PM to 2 PM. There is free admission to the Museum that day, so it is a perfect day to check out the new MSHOF Exhibit here.

February 23, 2011
We invite you to join us in a celebration on February 23 as we introduce our 55th Class of Inductees. Be among the first to not only welcome the new class of inductees, but to share the memories, recollections & special moments in the great history of Michigan sports presented as only the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame can. The announcement will be at 5:00 followed by dinner and drinks. A limited number of tickets to this exclusive event are available on the Hall's website.

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Local Girl tries for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Contestant - Kristi King

2011-02-05T20:39:00.003-05:00

For more pictures and to vote for our model Kristi King for the

upcoming Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue click here

Sudden Death, Walk-offs and Buzzer Beaters

2011-01-28T10:19:00.003-05:00

Detroit’s Great Sports Comebacks

New MI Sports Hall of Fame Exhibit at the Detroit Historical Museum
(Photo by Bob Sadler, courtesy of the Detroit Historical Society)

DETROIT (January 26, 2011) -- The Michigan Sports Hall of Fame (MSHOF), in partnership with the Detroit Historical Society, presents a spirited, interactive exhibit featuring an exciting theme highlighting comebacks and championships by local sports teams. The exhibit, which runs through Sunday, April 3 in the Detroit Historical Museum’s Community Gallery, highlights both team and individual triumphs throughout the years.
From the Detroit Red Wings amazing stretch as the best team in hockey following years of being the league doormat, to the Detroit Tigers remarkable comeback against the St. Louis Cardinals in 1968, this engaging presentation will evoke nostalgic memories for sports fans.

“The sights, sounds and excitement of this exhibit will offer visitors a unique reflection of our beloved Tigers, Lions, Pistons, Red Wings, Wolverines and Spartans through highlighted stories of comebacks with engaging videos and authentic displays,” said Scott Lesher, MSHOF chairman.

Positive messages of teamwork, persistence, faith and other encouraging elements will invite visitors to take home a feeling of inspiration relevant to their lives - especially during our state’s economic comeback journey.

This exciting new exhibit is presented by Comcast, with supporting sponsors Ford Motor Driving Skills, First Michigan Bank and Delta.

Tentative Michigan Sports Hall of Fame Exhibit Schedule

Saturday, February 5: MSHOF celebrates African American History Day. Hall of Fame member Ray Scott will lead a discussion/presentation on playing college and professional sports in the 50s, 60s and 70s. The presentation by Scott, former Pistons player and head coach and the 1974 NBA Coach of the Year, will begin at noon, followed by an autograph session.

Sunday, Feb. 20: MSHOF Autograph Day (MASCO Corporation Foundation Find Your Place in History free admission day) two Hall of Fame legends are expected to sign autographs at no cost.

Wednesday, Feb. 23: Hall of Fame Exhibit Celebration and New MSHOF Class Announcement- 5-7 pm. An invitation-only cocktail reception will be combined with the official announcement of the new Class of Inductees.

Sunday, March 6: MSHOF Artist Day. Renowned local sports artist Doug West will offer a demonstration and discussion.

Sunday, March 20: MSHOF Autograph Day (MASCO Corporation Foundation Find Your Place in History free admission day). Two Tiger HOF members are expected to sign free autographs in honor of the 2011 Detroit Tigers’ Opening Day in Detroit.

Sunday, April 3 - MSHOF Exhibit closes.

For more information, call the Museum at (313) 833-1805 or check out our website at http://www.detroithistorical.org/

Michigan Sports Hall of Fame One-Of-A-Kind “Heroes of the Hall” Artwork Sale

2010-11-18T14:04:00.002-05:00

Available to Sports Fans, Sporting Legends’ Dumars, Sanders, Trammell and Yzerman Featured

DETROIT (Nov. 17, 2010) --- An original, limited edition piece of artwork featuring four of the greatest sporting legends in Detroit history in Joe Dumars; Barry Sanders; Alan Trammell, and Steve Yzerman is available to sports fans seeking the ultimate conversation piece or that special holiday gift for their fellow fans or family members on the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame (MSHOF) All Star Online Auction.

This unique work of art entitled “Our MVP’s” is the first in the MSHOF Heroes of the Hall Collectors’ Series by nationally-renowned sports artist Doug West commissioned by the MSHOF and is now available in the MSHOF All Star Online Auction on eBay.com. West, whose paintings of celebrities have appeared in TIME, Sports Illustrated, Fortune, and Hour Detroit.

His work includes the “Salute to Detroit” that was created in honor of NFL Super Bowl XL, as well as the induction program cover for both the National Baseball Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame and original works of art for Cal Ripken, Arnold Palmer and Roger Staubach.

The collectible piece comes in two forms, either a giclée print or an artist proof. Both are personally autographed by each legendary athlete as well as the artist, and are available for the first time exclusively through the MSHOF All-Star Online auction. Each piece measures 25" high by 30" wide and comes unframed. Bidding on this limited edition reproduction is now open and will conclude on Sunday, Nov. 21, at 11:59 p.m. EST. All auction items are tax deductible and proceeds will support the MSHOF and the Dave Bing Scholarship for Leadership and Achievement.

More details of the artwork and other unique auction items are available on the MSHOF website at http://www.michigansportshof.org/,

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EVANDER HOLYFIELD FIGHT AT JOE LOUIS ARENA HAS BEEN CANCELLED

2010-11-17T09:45:00.000-05:00

(DETROIT– Nov. 17) — Due to unforeseen circumstances, Evander Holyfield’s “Fight Against Hunger” at Joe Louis Arena has been cancelled. The event had originally been scheduled at Joe Louis Arena on Thursday, Dec. 9 at 7 p.m.

Ticket refunds are available at point of purchase. For Ticketmaster Customer Service, please call (800) 653-8000.

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Golfweek Magazine Selects Manitou Passage Golf Club Among Best New Courses in 2010

2010-11-16T15:42:00.000-05:00

Glen Arbor, MI – Golfweek Magazine has chosen Manitou Passage Golf Club, located near the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore in the Leelanau Peninsula, as one of its "Best New Courses"in 2010. The recognition of the 40 top new courses in the country appears in the October issue of the magazine.

Golfweek's course evaluators grade courses all over the country on a 10-point scale to identify the country's finest golf courses. Raters take into account factors such as routing of the course, feature shaping, greens, variety and memorable holes, conditioning, maintenance, and landscape management.

This accolade makes Manitou Passage Golf Club one of the top destination courses in northern Michigan. The course joins Harbor Shores Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus, as one of the two Michigan courses to make the Golfweek's best new list.

Manitou Passage Golf Club is a signature Arnold Palmer design that has gone through a major renovation and restoration project to complete and update the design that was originally envisioned by Palmer.

When a group of golf devotees purchased the course over a year ago, they did so with the goal of creating a new destination course featuring exceptional playing conditions and unmatched service. That group, lead by Bob Kuras, president of The Homestead, brought the Arnold Palmer Design Company, Peridian International, and the Wadsworth Golf Construction Company in to assist with the renovation efforts.

The Palmer and Peridian work included scores of minor and major changes. Under the direction of Kuras and his son James, Wadsworth completed the majority of the changes recommended by Palmer. Renovations included the repositioning, adding and squaring off of tee-boxes, widening of fairways in key landing areas, renovating bunkers, lengthening some holes, restoring areas with native grasses and clearing of trees and brush to open vistas to the area's natural beauty.

"We're honored to have been chosen by Golfweek Magazine and pleased to be in the company of other great courses," said Kuras.

One of the most dramatic (and, most talked about) changes was on hole No. 8, now one of the region's prettiest and most challenging par 5's. The tee boxes were re-positioned and trees removed, which opened up one of the signature views in all of northern Michigan, including Lake Michigan, the Manitou Passage, sand dunes and lighthouse.

With its crystal clear inland waters, sparkling Lake Michigan beaches, and miles of rolling sand dunes in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Leelanau was the perfect setting for Manitou Passage Golf Club as it was for The Homestead, America's Freshwater Resort. Guests can now enjoy this world-class Arnold Palmer signature design and golf packages at a resort of comparable quality.

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Major League Baseball Players Recognize Detroit Tigers Brandon Inge as Man of the Year and Austin Jackson Rookie of the Year

2010-10-29T12:12:00.000-04:00

New York, NY, Friday, October 29, 2010 … In a season marked by extraordinary performances on and off the field, Major League baseball players today bestowed their highest honors on two players – Colorado Rockies outfielder Carlos Gonzalez is Player of the Year and Detroit Tigers infielder Brandon Inge is the Marvin Miller Man of the Year. The Major League Baseball Players Trust will honor Gonzalez and Inge, the top Players Choice Award winners, with donations of $50,000 each to the charities of their choice. The Awards announcements were made this morning on the Mike & Mike in the Morning show during the finale of ESPN Radio’s exclusive five-day Players Choice Awards broadcast special presented by Majestic Athletic and 2K Sports and benefiting the Major League Baseball Players Trust.

View all winners at the In Play! Magazine Detroit Tigers Blog

Tough Guy My Life on the Edge by Bob Probert - Review

2010-10-25T11:12:00.001-04:00

Bob Probert's new book

"Tough Guy, My life on the Edge"

Forward by Steve Yzerman.

A review of the newly released autobiography by Bob Probert. The book was almost complete at the time of Bob's unfortunate and untimely death.

We just got an advanced copy of Bob Probert's book that he was working on entitled "Tough Guy." I will be reading and posting tidbits from each chapter. Just started reading but the prologue gives you a detailed first hand account of what happened July 5th, 2010, the day Bob passed away. VERY, VERY SAD!

Review
by Jack Rosenberg
In Play! Magazine

One of the best hockey books I have ever read. Bob's brutal honesty is what makes this book believable. He held nothing back when talking about infidelity, the drugs, the boozing, his legal issues and the love for his wife and family. Bob's premonitions of an early death bring an eerie element to his story.

Caution: Quotes are un-censored

Prologue
This is saddest part of the book. It's a first hand account of Bob's last day. It puts to rest all the rumors and sets the record straight as to what really happened July 5th, 2010. I remember that day clearly as the rumors hit the internet like a buzz saw. I thought for sure that it was some prank or sick joke, but it wasn't.

"Penny (Dani's aunt) thought it seemed like an eternity getting the kids home and picking up the car before she and Dan (Bob's in-law) were finally headed to the hospital. When they were about five minutes away, Dan's cell phone rang. It was Leslie (Dani's mother). "He's gone," she said.

Chapter 1 - Probably the most famous of all NHL fights was between Bob Probert and Tie Domi. Arguably the two toughest NHLer's to ever lace em up and ironically they are both from the Windsor area. "Tie Domi was a little fucker, and I figured "Why not?" You know? I didn't have to fight him but I said "Aw fuck, let's go. Give him a chance for the hell of it." - Bob Probert on Tie Domi breaking into the league.

Chapter 2 - The old Olympia was located in a bad part of Detroit towards the end of it existence. "When my dad took Norm and me to games, he'd bring his little snub nosed .38. He'd drive across the border with it in his belt. He'd whip open his coat, show his badge and say "I'm going to the game." When we walked to the car after the game he'd have it in his hand, dangling at his side. - Bob Probert on his Dad.

Chapter 3 - Bob gets his first taste of booze at fourteen...and likes it. " I wondered what that tastes like? So I opened one (beer) and knocked it down. Nothing happened. I had another, and another. After drinking about five of them I started getting a buzz, then it really kicked in. I was like Wow, this is pretty neat. But I knew I had better get to my bedroom before someone saw me staggering and falling down." Bob Probert

Chapter 4 - Bob tells the story of Todd Francis taking a shit on the hood of Shane Corson's brand new Z28!"
"So many guys were doing it - banging land-ladies. It's still happening today...I told my wife, Dani, this story and she said "Can we billet a couple of Spitfires next year." Bob Probert.

Chapter 5 - Bob talks about one of his first big bouts with Ken Baumgartner while playing with the OHL Soo Greyhounds. "You motherfucker, as soon as we get out (penalty box), were gonna go right here! Right here buddy, right here." - Bob Probert

Chapter 6 - Bob tries blow for the first time and is hooked. "He handed me a rolled-up bill and I did some lines. It was an instant love. Oh yeah. I had been kind of slurring a little bit from drinking, but all of a sudden, I wasn't as messed up. And it gave me this energy. I felt like Superman. It was just like WOW! This is awsome."

Chapter 7 - For those of us who lived in Windsor and were into the bar scene at the time we heard all the stories of Bob getting into trouble, bar fights, cops, you name it. "In October 1986, I was sentenced to two years probation for assualting a police office the night I refused to leave Tune-Ups tavern." "That whole year was fun, but I got into a lot of trouble. I was red-flagged at customs, red-flagged with the Windsor Police, and red-flagged with the Wings." - Bob Probert

Chapter 8 - "I had a philosophy when a guy took a dive on me. Next time, you won't need to be diving, because it's really going to hurt." - Bob Probert

Chapter 9 - "Probe, I've had it with you. You don't wash your underwear. You're eating a hamburger, you're not taking this serious, and I've just had it." - Red Wings Assistant Coach Colin Campbell.

Chapter 10 - While holed up in the Relax Plaza in Windsor because he was suspended by the Wings and the US Government pulled his visa Bob meets his soul mate Dani Wood. "It wasn't so bad because it was full of beautiful girls, especially the blonde at the front desk named Dani. I kept looking at her. She was incredibly hot-drop dead gorgeous, actually. I called up my buddy , Dino Rossi, and said I've fallen in love and found the girl I'm going to marry, and it turned out to be true."

Chapter 11 - Bob goes into complete details of the night he got busted at the Windsor/Detroit Tunnel with 14.2 grams of Blow. "On September 26, 1989, at 2 PM I was sentenced to six months in jail by U.S. District Judge Patrick J. Duggan." - Bob Probert

Chapter 12 - Bob tells the story of how gave Sheldon Kennedy his nick name. "I called Sheldon Mo Melly. One time we, were singing the name game, and I had a Mo Melly moment - "Shelly, Shelly, Mo Melly, banana-fana, bo-belly, fee-fie-fo-Felly. Shelly" I mean we would laugh all the time I would wake him up by jumping on his bed at like five in the morning. "Wake up Mo Melly! Wake up, Mo Melly! Let's go (water) skiing!"

Chapter 13 - Bob's legal battles continue from his tunnel bust and they're starting to weigh on him. "I was feeling pretty stressed about the whole deportation issue. Our first game in Canada was October 13, and I was refused permission to cross the border (back into his own country) to play. Then the Immigration and Naturalization Service sent me a letter ordering me to turn myself in - they wanted to put me back in jail until my appeal went to court." - Bob Probert

Chapter 14 - Anybody who ever saw Bob fight knows he was all business and no theatrics. Although Bob liked Tie Domi he didn't care for the show boating and the whole "Heavyweight Belt" nonsense from their bout on February 9, 1992. "I didn't care for that, or the way Domi acted after. I didn't like the way he was building himself up And when people start going to the press and mouthing off, well, that's not cool" - Bob Probert

Chapter 15 - After three and half years of not being able to play a Canadian team due to his immigration issues Bob was finally cleared to cross the border. "On Monday December 7, (1992) James Montgomery, the Director of the INS's Detroit district office, cleared me to travel back and forth across the border, which meant I would be able to play in Toronto two nights later...and I liked playing the Leafs."

Chapter 16 - One of the all-time top fights in hockey was the February 4, 1994 merry-go-round between Bob Probert vs. Marty McSorley. The fight lasted over a minute and a half and Bob tells it from his perspective. "I was just bagged after that one. It was the most tired I had ever been after a fight. When I came off, Mo Melly (Sheldon Kennedy) patted me on the back and said, "You are a fucking machine to pull that out of your ass."

Chapter 17 -Bob tells his side of his departure from the Wings. He says it boiled down to a clerical error that made him a restricted free agent, which opened the flood gates for other teams to make him an offer with the Wings having the option to match it. The entire situation is disclosed including how much money was offered, the contracts and ultimately Bob's move to Chi-town.

Chapter 18 - "Bettman is an asshole. A frikkin asshole. I think he's ruined the game of hockey. He's supposed to be impartial. He's supposed to speak for the good of the league, but in my opinion, he's strictly behind the owners. Those 1996 rule changes are a joke" - Bob Probert

Chapter 19 - Bob parts ways with long time lawyer/agent Pat Ducharme and decides to handle all aspects of his NHL contracts. Bob explains monetary and bonus conditions such as body fat %, bike endurance, weight and oxygen consumption. He really shows the business side of hockey in this chapter.

Chapter 20 - "That was it, the game was over, and I was the last guy to score at Maple Leaf Gardens. It was a big thrill for me. One of the top ten best things in my career." - Bob Probert

Chapter 20 - This passage really foreshadows the future to come. "I hope that at my funeral, people who helped me don't go yapping about my problems. Shut up, you know? That's why I am writing my own book, to tell it my way before someone else screws it up."- Bob Probert

Chapter 21- Bob talks about how he beat piss tests by microwaving "clean" urine for 12.5 seconds in order to get it to the correct temperature. "I'd take it out, test the temperature and pour it into a little tube with a stopper. Then I'd stick it inside my pants beside my dick and go and answer the door." - Bob Probert

Chapter 22 - The thoughts of death keep haunting Bob and his premonitions continue to foreshadow. "What was I going to do for the rest of my life? I had reached most of my goals. What was left? And in the back of my mind I couldn't shake the thought that the doctor's weren't telling me everything. I had this feeling something was seriously wrong. I never thought I would live very long anyway. I was thirty-seven. I figured I might have three year left" - Bob Probert.

Chapter 23 - After Bob has retired his wife Dani confronts him about why he still parties so much and asks him if it is something she has done or if Bob is not happy with her. "That shocked the shit out of me. Dani and I were soul mates. Dani had been though the worst with me. She stuck it out and stood by me. She was my lifeline to normalcy." After this Bob wants to enter into rehab...again.

We will continue to pdate this as we make our way through the book.

Chapter 23 - Again, the best thing about this book is Bob's complete honesty. Onother one of Bob's highly publicized run in's with the law was the taser incident down in Florida on June 4 , 2004. Bob explains how much fun it was getting tasered three times. "It did get into the news that I tried to flood the toilet at the jail, but that's not what happened. When they tasered me the third time I shit my pants. So when they booked me and put me in a cell, I tried to wash out my shorts and the bowl flooded." Bob was eventually found not guilty on the original charges.

Chapter 24 - In July and August of 2005 Bob was arrested two more times. Once was an incident at his home and the other was in downtown Windsor after partying at the Windsor Bluesfest. Ironically this was the fist time I met Bob when we were both backstage at Bluesfest that very night. He explains what happened later on that night and the consequences. "That twenty dollars worth of coke cost me twenty grand. Paying Pat Ducharme to defend me again, cost me $14,000, and I got fined and put back into a rehabilitation diversion program for the rest. - Bob Probert

Chapter 25 -In 2006 Bob is starting to get his life back on track. His kids are getting older and he cannot hide his lifestyle from them anymore. After a breaking a vital commitment he made, Bob's daughter wrote a letter to him that changed his mindset "I couldn't get that letter out of my mind. I always wanted to be a hero to my kids." - Bob Probert

Chapter 26 - Bob made two trips to Afghanistan to support the troops. While on his second trip he begins to realize how important his family is to him and how he has been living his life. "We phoned a bunch of families, and then I called Dani and the kids. Hearing their voices kind of choked me up. She and the kids were safe. I had to go all the way to fucking Afghanistan before I finally understood, that is what it's all about." - Bob Probert

"Tough Guy" leaves us on July 1, 2010 with Bob describing a boat outing to Peche Island with his family, laughing, joking around and watching his kids play in the water. "It was a perfect day." Four days later, Bob would be gone.

Feel free to post your favorite Bob Probert moments on our facebook page here.

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Bob Probert's new book "Tough Guy, My Life on the Edge"

2010-10-21T22:07:00.000-04:00

We just got an advanced copy of Bob Probert's book that he was working on entitled "Tough Guy." Will be reading and posting tidbits from each chapter. Just started reading but the prologue gives you a detailed first hand account of what happened July 5th, 2010, the day Bob passed away. VERY, VERY SAD!

Chapter 9 - "Probe, I've had it with you. You don't wash your underwear. You're eating a hamburger, you're not taking this serious, and I've just had it." - Red Wings Assistant Coach Colin Campbell.

Wings dressing room...
Friend of Bob's: "You're the greatest."
Campbell: "Why are you saying stuff like that to Probe? He's a mess!"
Friend: "God gave him gifts. He's the man"
Campbell: " You're right. God did make him, because no man could create such a piece of shit like this."

So many great stories!!! Stop by and share your Probie memories.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/In-Play-Magazine/66828874928?ref=ts

925 SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN ATHLETES FROM 50 COUNTIES AROUND THE STATE TO COMPETE AT STATE SOCCER & CYCLING FINALS!

2010-10-05T19:05:00.000-04:00

(Warren, Mich.) October 5, 2010 – The leaves are changing colors and the weather is cooling down. The arrival of fall brings the Special Olympics Michigan State Soccer and Cycling Finals. About 925 Special Olympics Michigan athletes and 300 coaches/chaperones and 300 volunteers from around the state will gather Oct. 15 and 16 in Warren for the 2010 Soccer and Cycling Finals. The double-venue competition will take place at Halmich Park and the GM Tech Center in Warren.

The State Soccer and Cycling Finals is one of seven state-level competitions held annually for Special Olympics Michigan athletes. There are also more than 400 annual local and regional competitions each year.

This event offers a wide variety of opportunities to the media. Special Olympics Michigan athletes, volunteers and coaches will be available for interviews and photographs. This is the 30th year the General Motors Men’s Club has hosted this tournament. Miss Oakland County Elizabeth Hawthorne will be signing autographs and greeting athletes both days.

This year athletes will be coming from Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Arenac, Barry, Bay, Benzie, Calhoun, Cass, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Genesee, Gladwin, Grand Traverse, Gratiot, Hillsdale, Huron, Ionia, Iosco, Isabella, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Kent, Lapeer, Leelanau, Lenawee, Livingston, Macomb, Manistee, Mason, Mecosta, Midland, Monroe, Montcalm, Montmorency, Muskegon, Oakland, Oceana, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Ottawa, Roscommon, Saginaw, Saint Clair, Sanilac, Shiawassee, Van Buren, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties.

Soccer competition begins at Halmich Park located at 3001 E. 13 Mile Rd. in Warren (located off of 13 Mile Road between Ryan and Dequindre). The Cycling Event will be held at the GM Tech Center located at 30100 Mound Rd. in Warren.

Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs for seating purposes. This event is free and open to the public.

Event Schedule and Locations:
Friday October 15
1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
· Registration Check-in – Halmich Park Pavilion
3:00 p.m.
· Coaches Meeting – Halmich Park Pavilion
3:30 p.m.
· Soccer Competition Begins – Halmich Park
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
· Dinner – Central Cafeteria (VEC Building)
7:30 p.m.
· Opening Ceremonies – Central Cafeteria (VEC Building)
8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
· Dance – Central Cafeteria (VEC Building)

Saturday, October 16
6:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
· Breakfast – at hotels
8:00 a.m.
· Cycling Registration – General Motors Tech Center
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
· Soccer Tournament – Halmich Park Fields
9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
· Fun Fitness Program – Halmich Park Fields
9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
· Special Events – Halmich Park Fields
9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
· Individual Skills Test – Halmich Park Fields
11 a.m. – Noon
· Young Athletes Program – Halmich Park Fields
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
· Lunch – Halmich Park Pavilion (wristbands/badges are meal ticket)

In Play! Magazine

Former Michigan standout Brent Petway highlights rookie class as Globetrotters prepare for 85th season

2010-09-30T17:19:00.000-04:00

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS SIGN SIX PLAYERS; TIP-OFF NEW YORK TRAINING CAMP

(PHOENIX, Sept. 30, 2010) – The legendary Harlem Globetrotters have signed six new players that have joined Globetrotter veterans for the team’s annual training camp in New York in preparation for the Globetrotters’ 85th season of touring the world.

The rookie class is led by 6-8 dunking phenom Brent “Thunder” Petway of the University of Michigan, selected in the Globetrotters’ first ever draft in 2007. Petway, a native of McDonough, Ga., was a second place finisher in the 2007 college Slam Dunk Championship and played two seasons in the NBA Development League. Sporting a 42-inch vertical leap, Petway was the Wolverine’s second-leading rebounder and shot blocker as a senior, and more than half of his career field goals at Michigan were via dunks.

“It takes a special player to be a Harlem Globetrotter, as one needs not only outstanding basketball skills, but showmanship and the ability to touch lives all over the world on and off the court,” said Sweet Lou Dunbar, legendary Globetrotters showman and the team’s director of player personnel. “We feel we have another strong rookie class with that potential.”

The other rookies at training camp in New York are:

Woodell “Woody” Payne, a native of Inkster, Mich. The 5-11 University of Detroit Michigan product was the Horizon League Co-Defensive Player of the Year this past season, finishing in the top 20 in the nation in steals. Payne was also an outstanding high jumper and long jumper in high school.

Eric “Hacksaw” Hall, a 6-8 shot blocking machine from Greensboro, N.C., who finished his Radford University (Va.) career fifth on the all-time blocked shots list, with nearly 100.

Garry “Bingo” Beverly. The 6-8, Philadelphia, Pa., native led Clark Atlanta University in rebounding and blocked shots in the 2008-09 season and was the team’s second leading scorer.

Kirk “Zeus” Stewart of Queens, N.Y., a 6-7 powerhouse that was an All-East Coast Conference honoree during his two years as a starter at the New York Institute of Technology.

Brian “Slingshot” Addison, a long and lean 6-9 dunker hailing from Queens, N.Y., who was a member of two regional championship teams at Monroe Community College in Rochester, N.Y., and played his last two collegiate seasons at the University of Buffalo.

These players join Globetrotter stars Big Easy Lofton, Flight Time Lang, Special K Daley, Scooter Christensen, Ant Atkinson, Handles Franklin, Dizzy Grant and many others as the Globetrotters prepare for their 2011 World Tour. Training camp, which tipped of Sept. 26, breaks on Oct. 7, with the Globetrotters embarking on tours of Europe and Mexico.

Visit www.inplaymagazine.com

Jahvid Best named NFL Rookie of the Week

2010-09-24T17:06:00.002-04:00

The NFL announced today that Lions RB Jahvid Best has been named the Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week for games played on September 19-20. Best compiled 232 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns in Detroit’s Week 2 game against the Philadelphia Eagles. http://www.facebook.com/pages/In-Play-Magazine/66828874928?v=wall&ref=ts#!

DETROIT TIGERS NOMINATE CARLOS GUILLEN 2010 ROBERTO CLEMENTE AWARD

2010-09-08T16:15:00.001-04:00

Photo by Jennifer MacPherson / In Play! Magazine

Major League Baseball and Chevrolet, the official vehicle of Major League Baseball, announced yesterday that Carlos Guillen was named the Detroit Tigers 2010 nominee for the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award presented by Chevrolet. Guillen is one of the 30 Club nominees who are finalists for the national award, which is given annually to the Major League Baseball player who combines a dedication to giving back to the community with outstanding skills on the baseball field.

Carlos Guillen, the 2010 Detroit Tigers nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award, has played a significant role in the community, supporting programs and charities to improve opportunities for children in Hispanic communities, youth sports organizations and children’s health organizations locally and beyond. He and his wife, Amelia, host the Detroit Tigers Foundation’s signature fundraising event, “Keeping Kids in the Game” which benefits children’s health and youth baseball. In three years, the event has raised more than $600,000 to support Fundación Chamos Venzolanos, DMC Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation, C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital and the Detroit Tigers Foundation. Fundacion Chamos Venezolanos is a foundation established by the Guillen family to aid youth and underprivileged people in his native Venezuela with the development, promotion and support of healthcare, educational and sports-related programs, services and facilities.

“I am honored to be chosen as the Detroit Tigers Roberto Clemente Award winner,” Guillen said. “The game has been good to my family and we think it’s important to do our best to help the community.”

Fans Can Vote for the National Award Recipient on
www.Chevy.com/Clemente and Register for a Chance to Win a Trip to 2010 World Series

In Play! Magazine

Maltby Sings One Year, Two Way Contract witht Red Wings

2010-09-08T16:00:00.000-04:00

Kirk Maltby takes the ice at the Air Canada Centre for Hockey Day In Canada, February 9, 2008
Red Wings Vs The Toronto Maple Leafs.
Photo By Jack Rosenberg / In Play! Magazine

Detroit, MI... Detroit Red Wings General Manager Ken Holland announced today that the club has signed forward Kirk Maltby to a one-year, two-way contract. In accordance with team policy, additional terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Maltby, 37, was originally a third round pick (65th overall) of the Edmonton Oilers in the 1992 NHL Entry Draft. He came to Detroit in 1996 following a trade with Edmonton for defenseman Dan McGillis. The Guelph, ONT, native has appeared in 908 regular season games for the Red Wings, tying him for seventh-most in team history (Sergei Fedorov). He has also donned the winged wheel in 169 playoff contests, fourth-most in franchise history. Maltby became the 239th player in NHL history to play in 1,000 games when the Red Wings played host to the Los Angeles Kings on February 27, 2009. In 1,072 career games, he has posted 260 points (128-132-260) and 867 PIM. Maltby is a four-time Stanley Cup champion with Detroit (1997, 1998, 2002, 2008).

Kirk Maltby, Forward
Born Dec 22 1972 -- Guelph, ONT
Height 6.00 -- Weight 200 -- Shoots R

In Play! Magazine

Denny McLains Tigers for Report September 3

2010-09-03T13:07:00.000-04:00

Denny's weekly Tigers Report, brought to you by In Play! magazine, can be heard every Friday morning at 8:50am on 100.7 FM The Rock. http://www.inplaymagazine.com/broadcasts.php?audio_id=54

CHRIS CHELIOS RETIRES AFTER 26 NHL SEASONS

2010-08-31T12:50:00.001-04:00

Bob Probert Night in Chicago 2008/09 WCF Game Four.
Photo by Jack Rosenberg In Play! Magazine

Detroit, MI... Chris Chelios, a three-time Stanley Cup champion and three-time Norris Trophy winning defenseman, announced today that he will retire from the National Hockey League after 26 seasons. Chelios played for the Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings and Atlanta Thrashers during his illustrious NHL career. http://www.inplaymagazine.com/blogs.php?blog=Detroit-Red-Wings

Roger Clemons Needs To Shut Up! By 31-6 Denny McLain

2010-08-24T11:39:00.000-04:00

The Rocket
Roger Clemens has the bases loaded, no one out, the Feds are hitting, it’s the first inning and his stuff sucks!

Clemons needs to shut up! If he is pulling a Governor Blagojevich it’s not going to work, although you can never say anything about a trial and Roger with his ego and personality will never accept a plea. It’s not too late for a plea now, but knowing his personality he would rather die then admit his sins. Now, let’s examine the sins.

What if I told you that I believe him that he did not take HGH or a steroid of some kind. What if I told you that he took something else other than the two drugs mentioned here? Would that be lying to anyone? There are other drugs out that that are not considered HGH or Steroids but can do the same things as these drugs.

Conitnues...

LAW ENFORCEMENT TORCH RUN TO EMBARK ON 750-MILE RELAY RUN FROM COPPER HARBOR TO STERLING HEIGHTS

2010-08-18T22:53:00.000-04:00

(Central Route, Travel Team and Nearly Two Dozen Community Runs, to Raise Awareness and Funds for Special Olympics Michigan Athletes)

(STATEWIDE) August 17, 2010 – The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) of Michigan celebrates its 29th anniversary in September with its 750-mile non-stop relay run September 13-17 from Copper Harbor in the Tip of the Upper Peninsula to Sterling Heights in the bottom of the Thumb. A special kick-off ceremony is scheduled for Treetops Resort in Gaylord at 8 a.m. on Saturday, September 11, 2010. The kick-off event includes a Community Run on the Tradition Course. Registration starts at 7:30 a.m.

Central Route consists of three teams - Fraternal Order of Police, Michigan Department of Corrections, and Michigan State Police. Each team consists of six runners. Each team member runs five miles at a time, at an average of eight minutes per mile. These dedicated runners have been raising money throughout the year to participate in this prestigious event.

Athlete Andy Swartz from Rockford in Area 11(Kent and Barry counties), has been chosen to run the prestigious 5-mile Mackinac Bridge leg during Central Route. “Andy is very excited for the run,” said his mother, Michelle Swartz. “He thinks that it is really cool to run across the bridge, and be able to do something like this for Special Olympics Michigan.” Andy will run alongside one officer from each of the three Central Route teams; Michigan State Police, Department of Corrections, and the Fraternal Order of Police. One runner from each team will be chosen in September for the Mackinac Bridge leg.

In addition, the LETR Travel Team is returning this year. The travel team runners will make their way around Michigan the same week as the Central Route runners. The Travel Team will be present at many of the nearly two dozen Community Runs that will take place around the state. Community Runs are a chance for community members and law enforcement members to run shoulder to shoulder, raising money and awareness for Special Olympics Michigan athletes!

Community Runs are scheduled for:

September 11
Gaylord, Buchanan and Selfridge

September 13
Battle Creek and Baraga

September 14
Traverse City and Petoskey

September 15
Alpena, Rudyard, Roscommon, West Branch and Cheboygan

September 16
Jackson, Mt. Pleasant, Big Rapids, Shiawassee County and Bay City

September 17
Lansing Midnight Run, Oakland County, Port Huron and Coldwater

September 22
Muskegon

In Play! Magazine New Issue

2010-08-09T16:14:00.000-04:00

Windsor and Detroit sports fans!

Here is the link to the new issue of In Play! Magazine www.bluetoad.com/publication?m=347&l=1

In Play! feature articles...
-In Play! goes behind the scenes with Fox Sports Detroit.
-Exclusive interview with FSN color commentator Rod Allen.
-Q&A with Tiger great, Al Kaline.
-Windsor Boxing sensation Sammy El Mais.

Regular columns include...
-Denny McLain
-Top Ten
-You Make The Call
-IPM Was There
-Tigers
-Lions
-Red Wings
-Pistons
-Spitfires

And also in this issue we look back and remember Bob Probert...