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South Africa’s National Football Team Captain Shot Dead

October 27, 2014 By Jac Hardy Leave a Comment

Senzo Meyiwa, the captain and goalkeeper of South Africa’s national football team was shot and killed last night while protecting his girlfriend from burglars. According to the latest report, burglars were trying to break into Meyiwa’s home and in an effort to protect his pop star girlfriend, Kelly Khumalo, he was killed.

As news of the killing broke, fans were in shock. At just 27 years old, Meyiwa and Khumalo lived together near Johannesburg in the township of Vosloorus. Around 8:00 pm last night, two men broke in, followed by demanding money, cellphones, and other items of value.

According to Sizakele Nkosi-Malubane, provincial official for community safety, one of the men pointed a gun toward Khumalo at which time Meyiwa stepped in between the two and was shot. Apparently, there was a third man waiting outside the home and once the gun went off, all three fled the scene. Although Meyiwa was rushed to the hospital, he died en route.

In an effort to gain information about the shooting that leads to an arrest, a $14,000 US dollar reward is being offered. In the meantime, outraged fans gathered at Meyiwa’s home, as well as the hospital, prompting the police to ask everyone to remain calm while the investigation is underway.

The last four matches played in the African Nations Cup qualifiers were captained by Meyiwa. At no time in these four matches was a goal conceded. Meyiwa and his team also played the night before the killing, when his club the Orlando Pirates moved forward to the semifinals of the South African League Cup.

Meyiwa’s South Africa coach, Ephraim Mashaba, as well as numerous teammates gathered at the hospital while Irvin Khoza, chairman of the Pirates released a statement saying this is an incredibly sad loss no matter how it is looked at, affecting Meyiwa’s entire family, his extended family, the Orlando Pirates, the South African nation, and many other foreign countries.

Some of Meyiwa’s teammates, along with other team’s football players and professional athletes from other sports took to social media to express their sadness. One of these was from Dean Furman, a South African footballer with the Doncaster Rovers who wrote on Twitter that he was beyond devastated at losing the team’s captain and friend, adding that thoughts and prayers were going out to his family members and friends.

In another Tweet, Kevin Prince Boateng, former Tottenham and Portsmouth midfielder, as well as Ghana international said one word that described the situation perfectly…”TRAGEDY!!!”

Roughly 1,500 Athletes Involved in Grade Scams

October 23, 2014 By Jac Hardy Leave a Comment

An earlier probe into a University of North Carolina scandal that involved athletics is reaches much farther than first anticipated. This scandal consisted of athletes who took bogus classes and were given inflated grades. Reportedly, about 1,500 athletes from the university received “A” and “B” grades over the past 20 years, this according to an investigative report issued yesterday.

In the report by former high-ranking US Justice Department official Kenneth Wainstein, in what was considered a “shadow curriculum” within the former African and Afro-American Studies or AFAM department from 1993 to 2001, about 3,100 students enrolled in classes they did not have to show up for.

The majority of athletes involved in the grade scandal played for the university’s football team or were members of the coveted basketball program, which out of five national titles during the scandal period that included the years 1993, 2005, and 2009, had three wins.

Many faculty members at the University of North Carolina hoped the eight-month investigation would bring closure to this 20-year old scandal but instead, it proved the fraud was far worse than reported in prior investigations conducted by the university and the NCAA.

Based on the findings, a minimum of nine university employees were fired or brought under disciplinary review. Now, school officials are trying to determine the next step. At this time, different penalty options include a reduced number of scholarships to removed wins.

According to Bubba Cunningham, Athletic Director, there is no speculation on potential sanctions. He confirmed that the University of North Carolina would work closely with the NCAA in going through the report as part of the ongoing investigation, a process that will take time.

This scandal dates back to the final years of Dean Smith’s tenure, the school’s legendary men’s basketball coach, but also football coach Mack Brown’s time prior to him going to Texas.

The report suggested that the courses in question required just a research paper, which often was quickly scanned by a secretary of the university who regardless of quality of work, handed out high grades.

Also outlined in the report was the way in which counselors for the athletes guided students struggling in school to those very courses, which were easy and had no instructor. In fact, two counselors actually gave suggestions as to the grades that should be given.

Wainstein’s report did not find evidence of any other department experiencing similar problems. Various current coaches to include Hall of Fame men’s basketball coach Roy Williams stated they knew about independent study courses with easy grades but had no idea the classes were bogus, something Wainstein believes.

In a joint statement released by the University of North Carolina and the NCAA, Wainstein’s report will be reviewed using the same standards applicable in all NCAA infraction cases. Regarding possible rules violations, neither organization commented.

Carol Folt, Chancellor of the University of North Carolina said the terminated employees, as well as those facing disciplinary review would not be identified. She said that this problem is not only academic or athletic, but one that also falls on the school.

Georgia University Applying to Have Todd Gurley Reinstated

October 22, 2014 By Jac Hardy Leave a Comment

Todd Gurley with the Georgia Bulldogs was suspended from playing football for the University because of a memorabilia-related NCAA violation. Immediately after the violation, Gurley missed two games, with Georgia winning over both Arkansas and Missouri.

As reported, Gurley was paid $400 from an autograph dealer for his signature on 80 items up for sale. In a statement from Gurley, he immediately took full responsibility for his actions and went on to thank the University, as well as his coaches and teammates for their support. He added that he looks forward to getting back on the field.

Today, Georgia University plans to apply to the NCAA for the reinstatement of Gurley, a Heisman candidate running back. Not only does the University hope for a quick ruling but expects one. Right now, the entire team would like to know if Gurley will be able to play against Florida, giving the Bulldogs adequate time to prepare one way or the other.

Mark Richt, head football coach for the Georgia University Bulldogs supports Gurley’s reinstatement and expresses his hope that there would be a relatively quick turnaround from the NCAA. However, he knows that the NCAA cannot be controlled and that once a decision is made, everyone will know.

While some Georgia fans were unhappy with the investigation’s timetable into the alleged violations, Richt feels that most people were satisfied with how things went. After all, it was important for the investigation to be thorough and everyone wanted to make sure the process was handled right.

After rushing 773 yards and 8 touchdowns for the team’s first five games, not to include a kickoff return touchdown and a 50-yard pass, Todd Gurley became a top candidate for the coveted Heisman Trophy.

According to William King, Gurley’s attorney, his client takes responsibility for his actions and is ready to play football. The University has gone through a lot over the past two weeks and done everything possible to show their support for Gurley. King then expressed gratitude to President Morehead, Greg McGarity, and Coach Richt for standing behind Gurley.

Royals Kick Off the World Series against Giants

October 21, 2014 By Sandy Morton Leave a Comment

After 29 years, the Kansas City Royals will host the opening World Series game tonight at Kaufman Stadium against the San Francisco Giants. The Royals played extremely well this year, becoming the first team in the history of major league baseball to start the postseason with eight straight wins. However, they go up against the Giants who are vying for their third World Series win in just five years.

At the start of the playoffs, no one anticipated a matchup between the Royals and Giants, both wild card teams. However, the Royals and the Giants have proved to be worthy opponents.

Kansas City Royals

In the wild card game against the Oakland Athletics, things did not look good for the Royals. The unusual pitching change ordered by Ned Yost prompted a five-run inning for the A’s. However, showing resiliency, the Royals rallied for a 9-8 win in 12 innings. The Royals went on to play the Angels, sweeping the American League Division Series in just three games.

The Royal’s good streak continued when they played the Baltimore Orioles in the American League Championship Series, taking all four games that brought them to tonight’s first World Series game, only the third time in the franchise’s history.

In all, the Royals won 89 games this season, thanks primarily to great defense and runs. Even though they led the American League with 153 stolen bases, the team’s 95 homeruns were the fewest in baseball. However, the Royal’s speed, timely hitting, defense, and strong bullpen will give the Giants a run for their money.

San Francisco Giants

In the meantime, the Giants has achieved a lot of wins, ending a 56-year drought when in 2010 they beat the Texas Rangers, followed by a 2012 sweep against the Detroit Tigers. If the Giants were to take this World Series, the team would join the New York Yankees as the only two clubs in the past four decades to have three championships in five years.

Just like the Kansas City Royals, the Giants started the year with a wild card win. They beat the Washington Nationals in four games, followed by winning against the St. Louis Cardinals in five games. The Giants clinched the sixth National League pennant in last Thursday’s game with Ishikawa hitting a three-run homer at the bottom of the ninth inning.

After going six games without a homerun, Giant’s player Michael Morse belted out the tying home run. According to tonight’s roster, Morse will be in the starting lineup as designated hitter. The biggest advantage for the Giants against the Royals is the starting staff, specifically Bumgarner, named NLCS MVP, who will start Game one of the series.

LA Kings Defenseman Slava Voynov Suspended After Arrest

October 20, 2014 By Sandy Morton Leave a Comment

The National Hockey League (NHL) has indefinitely suspended Los Angeles Kings’ Russian-born defenseman Slava Voynov over charges of domestic violence. Reportedly, the woman’s injuries were so severe that she was rushed to the hospital, accompanied by Voynov.

Shortly after arriving, staff members summoned the police and reported Voynov as the person suspected of the assault. After law enforcement officials showed up at the hospital around 1:00 am this morning, he was arrested and while not yet confirmed, the woman claims the two were in a relationship. Following his arrest, Voynov posted a $50,000 bond and was released.

This year, domestic violence has plagued the National Football League (NFL) and after being criticized for inappropriately dealing with players involved, the NHL took swift action in the case of Voynov. As of today, Voynov who agreed to a six-year $25 million extension in June 2013 has been suspended indefinitely from all practices and games.

However, during the suspension period and while the official investigation is underway, Voynov will continue to receive his pay.

At this time, the reason for the assault is unclear and when questioned, the LA Kings provided no further details regarding the case. In a statement by Igor Eronko, Russian hockey writer, Voynov has a girlfriend from his hometown of Chelyabinsk although whether she was or was not the victim in this incident remains a mystery.

After announcing Voynov’s suspension, the NHL cited a particular section of the collective bargaining agreement, giving them power to suspend a player during a criminal investigation. Also stated in the agreement is significant risk of material harm to the league’s reputation and/or legitimate interest by not suspending a player.

Voynov’s case comes just one year after the NHL failed to enact a suspension or make comment pertaining to Colorado Avalanche goaltender Semyon Varlamov’s assault charge, which was eventually dropped. Just last month, Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner spoke about the domestic violence policy for the league saying that according to the code of conduct, players are expected to do the right things and if not, they will be held accountable.

Bettman told a Canadian news outlet that using experience gained to-date, the league firmly believes that all of the proper procedures are in place for dealing with these types of situations, which in turn allows them to take the appropriate action on an individual case bases. He added that the NHL will address situations regarding the form of discipline but that they try to focus on education and counseling.

San Francisco Giants Heading to the World Series

October 17, 2014 By William Bland Leave a Comment

After announcing that the Kansas City Royals won against the Baltimore Orioles, taking them to the World Series, some people cheered for another I-70 series with the St. Louis Cardinals. However, after an incredible win, it is the San Francisco Giants who will play against the Royals.

With fans enthusiastically cheering and one out, Travis Ishikawa hit a hard line-drive into the right-field bleachers, giving the team their 6-3 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals in Game 5. By all accounts, this was the best of seven league championships ever, taking the Giants to their third world series in the past five seasons.

This year, the KC Royals have been incredibly strong, both offensively and defensively but the team has also played smart but playing against the Giants, they will have to pull out all the stops. The New York Giants have made appearances in 20 World Series, the most of all National League teams. Of those, the team has won just seven times with the most recent victory in 2012.

Interestingly, Ishikawa was nearly retired over the summer, stuck playing in the minors but in July he was called up by the Giants and eventually squirmed his way into the lineup based on injuries of other players. It was only recently that Manager Bochy positioned Ishikawa in left field, although he has always been a first baseman.

In the ninth inning, the Giants had two runners on base and a tied score of 3-3. Hammering a 2-0 fastball from Michael Wacha, pitching reliever for the Cardinals, Ishikawa immediately realized the ball was hit hard enough to clear the right fielder, giving him the winning homerun.

Ishikawa’s clinching hit was the third home run of the night for the Giants who had not hit one in any of the previous six playoff games.

After the game, Ishikawa stated that he remembers hearing the cheers of the crowd and then thought to himself if the ball makes it out of the ball field that would be fantastic. Even though the ball cleared the right field by a margin, it was a home run nonetheless. Fans went into such a frenzied state that Ishikawa had a hard time making it around the bases.

The Giant’s pitcher Madison Bumgarner said that a lot of the players wanted to rush Ishikawa at second to escort him in, forgetting he still had to touch home plate to make the win official.

In the clubhouse, catcher Buster Posey stressed that no baseball game is ever the same. People come to the ballpark to see something different, which is exactly what they get. The Kansas City Royals and San Francisco Giants will face off this coming Tuesday at Kaufman’ Stadium in Kansas City.

Jeff Banister Hired by the Texas Rangers

October 16, 2014 By William Bland Leave a Comment

The Texas Rangers just hired Jeff Banister as the team’s next manager, this confirmed by a reputable source. For some, the move is somewhat a surprise considering Banister spent the last 29 seasons with the Pirates’ organization but to others, they feel the change was due.

During the interview process with the Rangers, Banister acknowledged that he was not going to manage in the Arizona Fall League. Jon Daniels, general manager for the Rangers, said prior to ending the regular season that he wanted a new manager by October, something he accomplished.

Throughout his 29-season career with the Pittsburgh Pirates organization, Banister spent the past five as the official bench coach. He held a number of other positions with the organization and spent eight years as the field coordinator for the franchise’s minor league.

However, the Houston native beat out the Rangers’ interim manager, Tim Bogar, for the position. Interestingly, Bogar was a standout favorite, when in early September he took over for Ron Washington, as was Kevin Cash who served as the bullpen coach for the Cleveland Indians.

Learning that he would not become the Ranger’s new manager, Bogar interviewed with Arizona Diamondback organization last week but lastMonday, the team announced it was hiring Chip Hale instead.

In 1994, Banister’s first job as manager was for the New York Penn League, Welland. The following season, he moved on to become a Class A manager in Augusta. Now, his has the opportunity to lend his unrivaled talent to the Rangers.

Banister is a highly respected individual both on and off the field, making him the perfect candidate. His dedication to the sport of baseball was proven when during his playing career, he developed and recovered from bone cancer and osteomyelitis, an infection of the bone or bone marrow.

Banister was also paralyzed temporarily after experiencing a collision at home plate while playing junior college baseball in his home state of Texas. Many people believe this move is not only good for Banister but will serve the Texas Rangers well.

NFL Concussion Deal Rejected by Family of Dave Duerson

October 15, 2014 By William Bland Leave a Comment

After filing an objection to the National Football League (NFL) concussion settlement, the family of former Bears safety, Dave Duerson rejected the deal. Players have until midnight tonight to opt out of the proposed settlement between the NFL and roughly 5,000 ex-players who claim the NFL kept the dangers of head injuries hidden.

In February 2011, 50-year-old Duerson committed suicide by a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the chest. An examination showed he had Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). According to Boston University, this generative brain disease is typically associated with repetitive brain trauma to include symptomatic concussions and asymptomatic sub-concussive blows to the head.

Just this past month, the same settlement was rejected by the family of former linebacker Junior Seau. In a formal statement, the family said they will move forward with an official lawsuit against the organization.

The family of Duerson feels the deal being offered by the NFL is unjust since it places limitations on payouts to people with CTE. According to Bill Gibbs, attorney with Corboy & Demetrio who serves as legal counsel for the family, Duerson did not commit suicide so that CTE would be forever eliminated from the NFL’s lexicon. He added that the settlement proposed to the Duerson family insults the player’s legacy.

Nine additional former players have attorneys who agree that the NFL concussion deal excludes families who suffer the ramifications of CTE by not compensating players with a firm diagnosis of the disease after the July 7 date.

Interestingly, the July 7 date is the same agreed to by the NFL and former players for a proposed $765 million settlement on claims and an agreement preliminarily approved by US District Judge Anita Brody.

By November 3, a court administrator will announce the number of ex-players who opted out of the deal. In addition, former players with concerns pertaining to the settlement agreement have the option to attend a November 19 fairness hearing.

Kansas City Royals One Game Away from World Series

October 15, 2014 By William Bland Leave a Comment

After less-than-desired playing for the past 29 years, the Kansas City Royals baseball team is just one game away from being in the World Series. Last night’s game against the Baltimore Orioles was critical but even after the opposing team scored the first run early in the game, Royals’ fans kept cheering and showing confidence their team would turn things around, which they did.

Although three different teams have taken a total of seven cracks at the Royals, none of them succeeded. The Royals’ incredible fielding, strong starting pitching, good offense, and enthusiastic bullpen have played critical roles in taking the 3-0 lead in the American League Championship series.

To clinch their spot in the World Series, the Royals have four opportunities to do it, which includes the next two games on home turf at Kauffman Stadium.

The Royals won 89 games during regular season, fought hard and came back from being down four runs in the wild-card game, swept the team with the best record in baseball, and now with the 3-0 ALCS advantage, they are close to reaching the ultimate goal – the World Series.

All of the Royals’ players did well in last night’s game but two stood out, Jarrod Dyson and Mike Moustakas. Dyson proved his worthiness running bases but also make good choices. This was apparent with a runner on first and Dyson on third who avoided being out when the Orioles’ pitcher made a fake throw to first and spun around to fire at third.

Mike Moustakas had the games’ best play, nosediving into the Royals’ dugout only to come up with the ball and an out for the team. Throughout the year, Moustakas watched other players dive for balls so this time he decided to take a chance, which paid off. Stealing second was also out for the Royals with Wei-Yen Chen on the mound since he consistently gets his pitches across home plate in less than a second.

It was not that long ago that the Royals were not phenoms cruising along in October, just one away from the season’s end. Although the Royals struggled during the middle of summer, they were a trendy pick at the beginning of the year.

As Dyson stated, the entire team knew what they could do, it was just a matter of performing. Waiting 29 years to get where they are today is a long time. At this point, the greatest challenge for the Kansas City Royals will be keeping their enthusiasm in check.

Dallas Cowboys’ Joseph Randle Arrested

October 14, 2014 By William Bland Leave a Comment

While many NFL teams have been plagued by one mishap after another this year, the Dallas Cowboys’ franchise has remained relatively clean, until running back Joseph Randle was arrested and formally charged with shoplifting, this according to Frisco Texas law enforcement officials.

As stated in legal documents, Randle, age 22, was arrested for allegedly stealing cologne worth $80 and underwear at a cost of $40 from a Dillard’s store. Based on the value of merchandise grabbed, between $50 and $500, his charge is a Class B Misdemeanor.

Apparently, Randle’s actions were caught on surveillance video cameras after which local police were notified. After being booked into the Frisco city jail, he was released once bond was posted. Some people are speaking out that this clearly shows that Randle believes he can get anything he wants because of his name.

According to someone close to Randle, he was celebrating the team’s big win over the Seattle Seahawks but considering that he will earn close to $500,000 this year, the incident has left fans, players, and the franchise owners baffled.

Randle was a fifth round pick by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2013 NFL draft. Initially, he was the backup running back for Pro Bowler Demarco Murray but after Murray was injured, Randle had the opportunity to start two games. The year, he has carried 16 carries for 113 yards while playing in a backup role for the 5-1 Cowboys. He also ran five times for 52 yards in last weeks’ victory game.

Even though this is considered a “small crime”, the Dallas Cowboys have always prided themselves on being an upstanding organization within the NFL. Because of this, no one is certain if and how it will affect Randle’s playing on the field or his status with the team. Reporters reached out to the team for comment but as yet, no official statement has been released.

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