IHSA Class 3A Playoffs #10 Greenville (7-2) at #7 Sesser-Valier-Waltonville-Woodlawn (8-1)

October 27, 2017 By Leave a Comment

by Steve Dunford 

From the Red Devil Booster Club

The Devils came very close to running the table and winning a Black Diamond Conference title, as they were defeated by the Fairfield Mules 18-6 last Friday night at the Train Yard.

In the first of the IHSA playoffs, they have a tough draw in the Greenville Comets.  They improved to 7-2 by defeating state ranked an undefeated Carlinville 35-28 in week 9.

Greenville plays in the South Central Conference, a 3A conference that mainly runs along the I-55 corridor between Springfield and St. Louis.

They lost to Pana, 25-13 who will be playing the DuQuoin Indians in the first round, and Hillsboro 34-14, who will be facing the Anna-Jonesboro Wildcats in the first round.

I have been swapping e-mails with Kyle Cunningham, who is the sports editor for the Greenville Advocate had to say this about the Comets,  “They have arguably the best offensive line in the SCC. They feature one of the biggest lines they have ever had. The offense is very run oriented and centered behind SR RB Christian Moss.  Moss is the best running back in the conference. He averages 245 yards per game and is just 61 yards shy of tying the single season rushing record. He currently sits at 2,204 yards this season and is second in all-time career rushing in comet history.”

“The team as a whole is very physical they hit very hard. The offense has scored 311 points this season for a 34 points per game average the defense has also been solid allowing just 22 points per game against a very high scoring conference. Pana, Hillsboro, and Vandalia have all scored over 400 points this season.”

“SVWW coach John Shadowens had this to say about the matchup with the Comets.  “Greenville presents a variety of problems that we haven’t seen this year. From a pool of 537 students, they certainly have depth. Also, they have the best running back we have seen this year in  Moss, as well as the biggest, strongest line. They run an up tempo, no huddle style of play intent on wearing you down. They are a formidable opponent.”

Like West Frankfort, Greenville was bumped to 4A last year.  They were beat in the first round by Metro East powerhouse, Columbia.

I have watched some clips on Hudl, and Moss reminds me a lot of Jace Turner from AJ.  Greenville has a bigger line than Fairfield’s.

In my view this draw is like drawing someone from the River to River.  The SCC is a more offense oriented league, but the level of the play in this conference is similar.

With both teams playing in closed conferences, you really do not have a measuring stick until you get in the playoffs, because yourselves, as well as your opponents have never stepped out of the league.

I never make score predictions during the postseason in any sport.  It is a special time of year.  I can say this though, Go Devils!!!   You represent us all in Franklin County now!!!!!

 

 

Filed Under: Sports

Cardinals hire Mike Maddux as pitching coach

October 26, 2017 By Leave a Comment

Former Cardinal and Carlyle HS alum Bryan Eversgerd promoted to bullpen coach

The St. Louis Cardinals announced today the hiring of Mike Maddux as the team’s Pitching Coach and promotion of Triple-A Memphis Pitching Coach Bryan Eversgerd to the Cardinals Bullpen Coach for the 2018 season. Today’s announcement rounds out the team’s Major League coaching staff for 2018.

“We are very excited to welcome Mike to the Cardinals organization,” stated Cardinals’ President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak. “We also look forward to giving Bryan Eversgerd a well-deserved opportunity on our Major League staff.”

Maddux, 56, has served as pitching coach with the Texas Rangers (2009-15) and Washington Nationals (2016-17), and was part of six postseason teams – four with the Rangers (2010-11, 12, 15) and two with the Nationals (2016-17). All-Star Max Scherzer earned his 2016 National League Cy Young Award as a member of the Nationals pitching staff under Maddux.

The 2016 Nationals squad set a franchise record with 1,476 strikeouts while holding opponents to a .234 batting average, also the best in club history. In 2017, the Nationals ranked 6th among Major League Baseball pitching staffs in ERA (3.88) while ranking 7th in strikeouts (1,457). As pitching coach with the Rangers, the team posted four of its top seven win totals, their top four strikeout totals in franchise history from 2010-13 and dropped their ERA from 5.37 to 4.38 in his first season with the club. In 2013, the Rangers bullpen posted their lowest ERA in club history at 2.89.

Maddux, the brother of pitching great Greg Maddux, enjoyed a 15-year Major League career, going 39-37 with a 4.05 ERA in 472 games (48 starts) with Philadelphia (1986-89), Los Angeles (1990, 1999), San Diego (1991-92), New York Mets (1993-94), Pittsburgh (1995), Boston (1995-96), Seattle (1997), Montreal (1998-99) and Houston (2000).

Eversgerd, 48, has served as pitching coach in the Cardinals organization for 15 seasons, including the last five with the Cardinals’ Memphis affiliate (2013-17). The Hoffman, Ill., native, was voted the recipient of the highly-distinguished George Kissell Award in 2012 – an award that honors excellence in player development. His teams won league championships with Memphis (2017) and double-A Springfield (2012). Eversgerd, who pitched parts of four major league seasons, made two stints with St. Louis that included his Major League debut in 1994.

Filed Under: Sports

CHANGING WATERFOWL HUNTING PICTURE

October 25, 2017 By Leave a Comment
MARION, IL – Sitting in in the blind while the drizzle slowly rusts the shotguns reminds one of how the face of waterfowl hunting in the southern Midwest has been gradually changing for the past few years.  Once primarily a goose hunting area, many hunters are turning to duck hunting for expanded opportunities.
A change in emphasis from goose to duck hunting has greatly relieved the financial woes of farmers and hunting club owners.  This year it may also assist the waterfowl hunter in finding a place to enjoy his sport.
With the reduced bags, some hunters question whether it is worth the effort.  Traditional goose hunters are turning to ducks to expand their day afield.
Geese have been getting to the area later each year.  With the end of the season seemingly etched in stone at the end of January, the number of hunter days diminishes.
The change has not been cheap for the landowner.  In order to flood cornfields wells are required.  The club owners seemed to come to the same conclusion at the same time.  As a result more birds hold in the area.
The flooded corn attracts large flocks of mallards.  Hunters report harvests of other species such as wood ducks, gadwall, widgeon, pintail, teal and shoveler.
The levees around the fields and wells in them have been a considerable expense.  But, they yield results in increased hunter days.  Foul weather or not the ducks will come and stay for the full sixty day season.
The geese stay up north as long as the weather permits.  Many have noticed the decline in Canada geese and an increase in specks (speckledbelly geese) and snow geese.
The ducks move south regardless of the activity of the geese and the weather.  The more reliable supply of birds makes duck hunting more popular with the club owners and hunters.  Many goose hunters who quit coming to southern Illinois are coming back to go duck hunting.
There are two basic types of ducks that visit here in Southern Illinois dabbling ducks and diving ducks.  The first to arrive are the dabbling ducks.  They include such species as mallards, pintails, black ducks, wood ducks and the teal.  These are the ducks that like the shallow, weedy slews, ponds and streams.  They feed on the aquatic plants and seeds.
Later the diving ducks join the dabblers for the rest of the winter.  These ducks like the deeper water where they feed on aquatic plants and invertebrates that they find beneath the surface of the water.  They will dive to depths of three to seven feet in search of food.  This class of birds includes the canvasbacks, redheads, scaup, ring-necked ducks and goldeneye.
Whether one enjoys the haunting call of a goose or the comical quacking of a mallard hen, the dawning of a morning with the streaks of orange across a grey sky can make waterfowl hunting a very pleasurable experience.  The display of flight geese arriving from the north, or the impressive flocks of mallards exploding from the water, provides the hunter with a quality outdoor experience.  Matching ones skills with gun and game calls against the natural wariness of the waterfowl provides a challenge unmatched in other sports.

For more information on lodging accommodations as well as outdoor activities in Williamson County, or to receive a free color hunting/fishing guide, contact VisitSI at 1602 Sioux Drive, Marion, IL 62959.  Call 800-GEESE-99 or emal

or email info@VisitSI.com.  Current information is also available online at www.VisitSI.com.
Filed Under: Sports

Former IHSA Executive Director David Fry Passes Away at Age 77

October 25, 2017 By Leave a Comment

BLOOMINGTON, IL – The IHSA family is saddened to announce the passing of H. David Fry, former executive director of the Association, at his home in Chatham on the morning of October 23rd.

Mr. Fry took an unusual route to his position on the IHSA staff. He grew up in Conrad, Montana, where he was a three-sport athlete while also participating in band, orchestra, and chorus. He came to Chicago to study at Moody Bible Institute and ended up with teaching jobs at North Chicago High School and Niles West High School. During this time he became deeply involved in state and national speech and debate programs. IHSA executive secretary Harry Fitzhugh took notice of his dynamic personality, and when an opening occurred on the association staff, he hired Mr. Fry, then just 26 years old and the youngest person at that time to serve as an IHSA administrator. His original responsibilities included music and speech, as well as cross country, tennis, swimming, and gymnastics.

Mr. Fry was appointed associate executive director in 1978 and then executive director in 1991 after the retirement of Lavere Astroth. During his 11 years in charge of the IHSA, he oversaw the introduction of state tournaments in boys volleyball and boys and girls water polo, the move of the boys basketball tournament from Champaign to Peoria, the creation of the IHSA TV Network, the introduction of the Add A. Tude sportsmanship mascot, and the vigorous promotion of the IHSA’s “March Madness” trademark that included the March Madness Experience in Peoria.

As head of the IHSA, Mr. Fry also served on the national council of the National Federation of State High School Associations and was the president of the Federation during the 1995-96 school year.

Mr. Fry retired in 2002 after 35 years at the IHSA, making him the longest-serving administrator in the Association’s history. A few years ago he moved from Bloomington to Chatham to be closer to his family. Mr. Fry is survived by his wife, Adrienne; daughters Kim, Karen, and Katie and son David, and several grandchildren.

Mr. Fry will be missed by his many friends in the interscholastic community throughout Illinois and the rest of the country. Information about services and memorials will be posted as it becomes available.

Filed Under: High School Sports, Sports

Oquendo is back, Willie McGee named to the coaching staff

October 23, 2017 By Leave a Comment

Several changes to the coaching staff….A new pitching coach has not been named

ST. LOUIS, MO – The St. Louis Cardinals announced today the following new roles on their Major League Coaching Staff for 2018:

Special Assistant to the General Manager Jose Oquendo has been named Third Base Coach; Special Assistant to the General Manager Willie McGee has been named to the Major League Coaching Staff and Third Base Coach Mike Shildt has been named Bench Coach.

The team also announced that Ron “Pop” Warner, who was named Assistant Field Coordinator last spring, will begin serving his promotion in that role after being asked to assist the Major League coaching staff for much of the 2017 season following some in-season changes.

“We feel that by bringing the experience, past successes and baseball savvy that these three gentlemen possess to our Major League coaching staff will be a strong benefit to our ball club,” stated Cardinals’ President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak. “Whether it’s coaching, teaching, game analysis, game planning, etc., etc. – these three men bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to our team.”

Oquendo, 54, who due to health reasons, had stepped aside as the team’s Third Base Coach just prior to the 2016 season, returns to the Major League staff after serving as Special Assistant to the General Manager in 2017. Oquendo has spent 16 seasons as the Cardinals Third Base Coach (2000-15) and was the team’s Major League Bench Coach in 1999 after spending the 1997 and 1998 seasons working in the farm system for St. Louis. The “Secret Weapon” enjoyed a 17-year professional playing career, including stints in the majors with the New York Mets (1983-84) and St. Louis Cardinals (1986-1995). Oquendo was voted in 2005 as the top Utility Man on the All-Busch Stadium II team.

A native of Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, Oquendo served as manager for Puerto Rico in both the 2006 and 2009 World Baseball Classics and for the World Team in the 2009 MLB Futures Game.

McGee, 58, joins the Major League coaching staff for the first time, having spent the 2013-17 seasons serving as a Special Assistant to the General Manager. A member of the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame, McGee enjoyed a banner career that included National League MVP honors in 1985, two league batting titles (1985 & 1990), four All-Star Game selections (1983, 1985, 1987 & 1988) and three Rawlings Gold Glove awards (1983, 1985 & 1986).

After breaking onto the scene in a big way during the Cardinals World Series win in 1982, the switch-hitting McGee went on to spend 18 years in the majors with the Cardinals (1982-90 & 1996-99), Oakland A’s (1990), San Francisco Giants (1991-94) and Boston Red Sox (1995), accumulating 2,254 hits, 352 stolen bases and a .295 career batting mark.

Shildt, 48, has been a member of the Cardinals organization since 2004 and he spent this past season serving as Quality Control Coach and also Third Base Coach with the Major League team. Shildt, who managed for eight seasons in the Cardinals farm system at Memphis (2015-16), Springfield (2012-14) and Johnson City (2009-2011), was voted the recipient of the highly-distinguished George Kissell Award in 2010 – an award that honors excellence in player development.

In addition, the Cardinals are still working to fill coaching vacancies on their Major League staff for both Pitching Coach and Bullpen Coach.

Filed Under: Sports

Devils host Greenville Saturday at 1:00 p.m

October 23, 2017 By Leave a Comment

Full 1A-5A brackets…..local teams are in bold

Class 1A

Game 1 — #16 Toulon (Stark County) (5-4) at #1 Lena (L.-Winslow) (9-0) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 2 — #9 Abingdon (A.-Avon) (7-2) at #8 Milledgeville (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:00 pm

Game 3 — #13 Cuba [North Fulton Coop] (6-3) at #4 Stockton (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:00 pm

Game 4 — #12 Fisher (6-3) at #5 Freeport (Aquin) (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 5 — #15 Orangeville (5-4) vs. #2 Kewanee (Wethersfield) [A.-Wethersfield Coop] (8-1) at Kewanee (Wethersfield) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 6 — #10 Princeville (7-2) at #7 Dakota (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 7 — #14 Catlin (Salt Fork) (5-4) at #3 Forreston (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 3:30 pm

Game 8 — #11 Fulton (H.S.) (6-3) at #6 Ottawa (Marquette) (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:00 pm

Game 9 — #16 Chester (5-4) at #1 Tuscola (9-0) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 4:00 pm

Game 10 — #9 Mt. Sterling (Brown County) (7-2) at #8 Arcola (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 11 — #13 Madison (6-3) at #4 Carrollton (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:00 pm

Game 12 — #12 Hardin (Calhoun) [Coop] (6-3) at #5 Camp Point (Central) (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:00 pm

Game 13 — #15 Pleasant Hill [Coop] (5-4) at #2 Bridgeport (Red Hill) (9-0) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 14 — #10 Toledo (Cumberland) (7-2) vs. #7 Decatur (D. Lutheran) [Coop] (7-2) at Decatur (D. Lutheran) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:00 pm

Game 15 — #14 Moweaqua (Central A & M) (5-4) at #3 Argenta (A.-Oreana) (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:00 pm

Game 16 — #11 Warrensburg (W.-Latham) (6-3) at #6 Athens (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:00 pm

Class 2A

Game 1 — #16 Aurora (A. Christian) (5-4) at #1 Sterling (Newman Central Catholic) (9-0) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 7:00 pm

Game 2 — #9 Chicago (Orr) (7-2) vs. #8 Chicago (C. Hope Academy) (7-2) at Chicago (Altgeld Park) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:00 pm

Game 3 — #13 Rockford (R. Christian) (5-4) at #4 Orion (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:00 pm

Game 4 — #12 Aledo (Mercer County) (5-4) at #5 Clifton (Central) (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 5 — #15 Lanark (Eastland) [E.-Pearl City Coop] (5-4) at #2 Gibson City (G.C.-Melvin-Sibley) (9-0) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 6 — #10 Savanna (West Carroll) (6-3) at #7 Minonk (Fieldcrest) (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 7 — #14 El Paso (E.P.-Gridley) (5-4) at #3 Taylor Ridge (Rockridge) (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 8 — #11 Chicago (Marshall) (6-3) at #6 Knoxville (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 9 — #16 Auburn (5-4) vs. #1 Hamilton [West Hancock Coop] (9-0) at Warsaw (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:30 pm

Game 10 — #9 Carmi (C.-White County) (6-3) at #8 Bismarck (B.-Henning-Rossville-Alvin) (6-3) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 11 — #13 Carthage (Illini West) (6-3) at #4 Maroa (M.-Forsyth) (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 12 — #12 Red Bud (6-3) at #5 Eldorado (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:00 pm

Game 13 — #15 Mackinaw (Deer Creek-M.) (5-4) at #2 Westville (9-0) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:00 pm

Game 14 — #10 Carlyle (6-3) vs. #7 Sciota (West Prairie) [Bushnell-West Prairie Coop] (7-2) at Sciota (West Prairie) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:30 pm

Game 15 — #14 Bunker Hill [Coop] (5-4) at #3 Downs (Tri-Valley) (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 3:00 pm

Game 16 — #11 Villa Grove [V.G.-Heritage Coop] (6-3) at #6 Shelbyville (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:00 pm

Class 3A

Game 1 — #16 Winnebago (6-3) at #1 Farmington (9-0) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:00 pm

Game 2 — #9 Elmwood [E.-Brimfield Coop] (7-2) at #8 Wilmington (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 6:00 pm

Game 3 — #13 Paxton (P.-Buckley-Loda) (6-3) at #4 Peotone (8-1) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:00 pm

Game 4 — #12 Watseka [Coop] (7-2) at #5 Elmhurst (IC Catholic) (8-1) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:00 pm

Game 5 — #15 Spring Valley (Hall) (6-3) at #2 Williamsville (9-0) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 6 — #10 Beardstown (7-2) at #7 Bloomington (Central Catholic) (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 7 — #14 Eureka (6-3) at #3 Byron (9-0) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:30 pm

Game 8 — #11 Poplar Grove (North Boone) (7-2) at #6 Monticello (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 9 — #16 Pleasant Plains (6-3) at #1 Trenton (Wesclin) (9-0) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 10 — #9 Alton (Marquette) (8-1) at #8 Newton (8-1) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:00 pm

Game 11 — #13 Marshall (6-3) at #4 Decatur (St. Teresa) (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 12 — #12 Wood River (East Alton-W.R.) (7-2) at #5 Carlinville (8-1) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:00 pm

Game 13 — #15 Vandalia (6-3) at #2 Fairfield (9-0) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 14 — #10 Greenville (7-2) vs. #7 Sesser (S.-Valier) [Coop] (8-1) at Sesser (S.-Valier) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:00 pm

Game 15 — #14 Hillsboro (6-3) at #3 Anna (A.-Jonesboro) (9-0) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 16 — #11 DuQuoin (H.S.) (7-2) at #6 Pana (H.S.) (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Class 4A

Game 1 — #16 Chicago (Urban Prep/Englewood) (5-4) at #1 Johnsburg (9-0) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 6:00 pm

Game 2 — #9 Chicago (Agricultural Science) (6-3) at #8 Rochelle (6-3) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:00 pm

Game 3 — #13 Norridge (Ridgewood) (6-3) vs. #4 Chicago (Sullivan) (8-1) at Chicago (Lane Stadium) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 3:30 pm

Game 4 — #12 Kewanee (H.S.) (6-3) at #5 Morris (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 5 — #15 Rock Island (Alleman) (5-4) vs. #2 Chicago (Raby) (8-1) at Chicago (Hanson Stadium) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:00 pm

Game 6 — #10 Richmond (R.-Burton) (6-3) vs. #7 Chicago (Urban Prep/Bronzeville) (7-2) at Chicago (Gately Stadium) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 7:00 pm

Game 7 — #14 Geneseo (5-4) at #3 Dixon (H.S.) (8-1) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:00 pm

Game 8 — #11 Elmwood Park (6-3) at #6 Genoa (G.-Kingston) (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:00 pm

Game 9 — #16 Fairbury (Prairie Central) (5-4) at #1 Rochester (9-0) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:00 pm

Game 10 — #9 Carterville (7-2) at #8 Belleville (Althoff Catholic) (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 11 — #13 Paris (6-3) at #4 Herrin (H.S.) (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 12 — #12 Pontiac (6-3) at #5 Tolono (Unity) (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:30 pm

Game 13 — #15 Quincy (Notre Dame) (5-4) at #2 Highland (9-0) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:00 pm

Game 14 — #10 Manteno (6-3) at #7 Effingham (H.S.) (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 15 — #14 Columbia (5-4) at #3 Herscher (8-1) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:00 pm

Game 16 — #11 Coal City (6-3) at #6 Taylorville (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 3:00 pm

Class 5A

Game 1 — #16 Chicago (Morgan Park) (5-4) vs. #1 Chicago (Phillips) (9-0) at Chicago (Gately Stadium) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 3:00 pm

Game 2 — #9 Chicago (Solorio Academy) (7-2) at #8 Chicago (Back of the Yards) (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:00 pm

Game 3 — #13 Woodstock (North) (5-4) at #4 Lemont (H.S.) (8-1) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:00 pm

Game 4 — #12 Chicago (Westinghouse) (5-4) at #5 Lake Villa (Lakes) (8-1) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 5:00 pm

Game 5 — #15 Arlington Heights (St. Viator) (5-4) at #2 Sterling (H.S.) (9-0) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 1:00 pm

Game 6 — #10 Maple Park (Kaneland) (6-3) at #7 Chicago (Lindblom) (8-1) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 4:00 pm

Game 7 — #14 Woodstock (Marian) (5-4) at #3 Antioch (9-0) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:00 pm

Game 8 — #11 Glen Ellyn (Glenbard South) (5-4) vs. #6 Chicago (Payton) (8-1) at Lane Stadium (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 7:15 pm

Game 9 — #16 Streator (Twp.) (5-4) at #1 Dunlap (9-0) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:30 pm

Game 10 — #9 Marion (H.S.) (6-3) at #8 Olympia Fields (Rich Central) (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 11 — #13 Peoria (H.S.) (6-3) at #4 Country Club Hills (Hillcrest) (7-2) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:00 pm

Game 12 — #12 Mahomet (M.-Seymour) (6-3) at #5 Chatham (Glenwood) (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 3:00 pm

Game 13 — #15 Peoria (Richwoods) (5-4) at #2 Troy (Triad) (8-1) (map), Fri., Oct. 27, 7:30 pm

Game 14 — #10 Morton (6-3) at #7 Centralia (H.S.) (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 2:00 pm

Game 15 — #14 Tinley Park (H.S.) (5-4) at #3 Washington (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 3:00 pm

Game 16 — #11 Peoria (Notre Dame) (6-3) at #6 Decatur (MacArthur) (7-2) (map), Sat., Oct. 28, 3:00 pm

 

Filed Under: High School Sports, Sesser-Valier High School Sports, Sports

MOTSINGER NAMED HEAD BASKETBALL COACH AT SIC

October 22, 2017 By Leave a Comment

HARRISBURG, IL – A familiar face will be returning to this basketball season at Southeastern Illinois College. Former coaching standout Mark Motsinger has taken the position as head coach of the men’s basketball team.

Motsinger returns to SIC after a tenure as the women’s basketball coach from 1986 to 2002. This span included 396 wins and 115 losses for the lady Falcons. But Motsinger’s connections to SIC began long before his coaching career.

“I was born in Mt. Vernon but moved to Harrisburg in 1962 when my father became the men’s basketball and baseball coach and Athletic Director at SIC,” Motsinger said.

Motsinger’s father, Virgil, coached the men’s basketball team for 35 years. Motsinger played on the team from 1979 to 1981, with his father as the coach. Motsinger graduated from Murray State University in 1983. After which, his coaching career began.

“I was a Graduate Assistant at Murray State from 1983 to 1984,” Motsinger said. He then coached basketball, cross country, and track at Thompsonville. Then was the head girls’ basketball coach and boys’ track coach at Henderson County High School before coming to SIC.”

All of Motsinger’s experience lead to a successful run at SIC. Motsinger’s career with the Lady Falcons ended with 396 wins and 115 losses. This record makes him the 16th most winning coach in NJCAA women’s basketball among inactive coaches. In 1990, Motsinger lead SIC to their first NJCAA National Tournament. And in 2009, Motsinger was names to the IBCS Basketball Hall of Fame. Motsinger is hoping his presence will continue to benefit SIC.

“I returned because of the opportunity to help get SIC Basketball back on track,” Motsinger said. “I believe in the philosophy, ‘a program should be better because you were there, not fall apart because you left.’”

One of Motsinger’s hopes for leading the program down a new path is to bolster the team with local talent. He believes that using hometown athletes will only benefit a small town school.

“I realize that we have a small district population wise, and I can’t build an entire team out of local players,” Motsinger acknowledged. “But if there is local talent, it should be utilized. This is a community college.”

Adding to the benefits of a local roster, Motsinger believes that personal connections to the team will foster support for SIC from the surrounding communities.

“Having local players helps bring community ownership back to the program, it helps local communities feel a connection to the institution, something that has been missing for the past several years,” Motsinger stated. “A college basketball program, like it or not is kind of like the front porch of a house, in this case the school, it is often the first thing people see and even though it may not be the foundation of the house it often gives off the first impression”

SIC’s athletic director, Jeremy Irlbeck is hopeful for what this season could bring.

“Mark will be a true asset to Southeastern, said Irlbeck. “We look forward to seeing him succeed this season, and continuing to bring local talent to SIC in the future.”

Motsinger and the basketball Falcons will have their season opener in Joseph Deaton Gym on Wednesday, November 15 as they take on Shawnee Community College at 7:30 p.m.

Filed Under: College Sports, Sports

Southern Illinois pulls away from Indiana State, 45-24

October 22, 2017 By Leave a Comment

by John Lock  siusalukis.com

TERRE HAUTE, IN – The Southern Illinois football program pulled away for a 45-24 win over Indiana State on Saturday afternoon. Southern’s defense only allowed 122 yards total offense over the final 53 minutes of the game.

Indiana State (0-7, 0-4 MVFC) hit on long passes on each of its first two drives. The Sycamores got the ball first and hit a 61-yard touchdown pass to take a 7-0 lead. After SIU tied the game, Indiana State hit a 40-yard pass that set up a touchdown. After that, SIU’s defense forced four turnovers and gave Southern’s offense the fuel to run away with its second-straight victory. 

“We didn’t come out and start the way we wanted to, but we’re going to enjoy this ride home any way we can get it,” SIU head coach Nick Hill said. “I’ve never beaten Indiana State since I’ve been coaching in college, and our guys came over here and found a way to get a win. It was sloppy at times, but I would rather win ugly than lose pretty.”

Southern’s offense was feast or famine for most of the game. The Salukis (4-3, 2-2 MVFC) committed four turnovers, but they also punted just four times while scoring six touchdowns and a field goal. 

“We did just enough to get the big explosive plays going,” Hill said. “We ran the ball just enough. Anytime you have 530 yards and 45 points, you did some good things, and that’s just a credit to our defense continuing to get us the ball back.”

After Indiana State took an early 14-7 lead, the Sycamores scored only twice more the rest of the game. The first score was actually a win for the SIU defense—a wild snap on a punt handed Indiana State the ball at the 8-yard line, and Southern’s defense held the Sycamores to a field goal. The other score was a fourth-quarter interception return for a touchdown. 

“Outside the first two drives, when (Indiana State) did what it wanted, our defense settled down and played lights out,” Hill said. “We gave them the ball at the 8-yard line because of the punt, and we forced a field goal. A pick-six is the only time they scored outside those first two drives. They couldn’t really do much.”

Saluki WR Darell James in yesterday’s win at Indiana State (siusalkis.com)

Other than the four turnovers, SIU’s offense moved the ball at ease all day. The Salukis ran 97 plays and had 30 first downs, compared to just 52 plays and 11 first downs for Indiana State. SIU went 10-for-18 on third downs, and the SIU defense held the Trees to 0-for-10. Quarterback Sam Straub threw for 352 yards and three touchdowns, and the running game poured in 184 yards and three touchdowns. Both Darrell James (154 yards) and Raphael Leonard (104) had career-best receiving games, just the fifth time in program history SIU has had two 100-yard receivers. 

“We’re seeing a little more about our team playing team football,” Hill said. “There will be times when one side of the ball is struggling and can’t get anything going. Somebody has to help us out. Special teams continued to play really good, except for the snap, and I really can’t say enough about (long snapper) Dan (Heilbron). He’s a true freshman. We haven’t said his name, which is a great thing. I’m proud of him. He came back with a couple backed-up punts and did a great job. He’ll clean it up. He’s a great kid and we have all the confidence in the world in him.”

The Salukis won the an MVFC road game for the first time since November 2014 at Missouri State. The Salukis snapped a three-game losing streak in the series with Indiana State. After the Sycamores wrecked SIU’s Homecoming last year in Carbondale with a 22-14 win, the Salukis returned the favor on Indiana State’s Homecoming weekend this year. 

UP NEXT

SIU travel to South Dakota for a battle with the Coyotes in the DakotaDome. South Dakota was ranked fourth nationally this week prior to losing at Illinois State earlier this afternoon. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. CT in Vermillion, S.D. 

“We control our own destiny,” Hill said. “You take it one week at a time, but the only time you guarantee you’re going to the playoffs it to win eight games. We have four wins with four to play. Every game is a must-win. We can’t look ahead. In this league, I keep saying Indiana State will beat somebody. They haven’t put a full game together, but they will. They have a great coaching staff that gets them ready to play. There’s never a lack of effort out there, and they have great scheme.

Box Score Link

http://www.siusalukis.com/boxscore.aspx?path=football&id=7836

 

Filed Under: College Sports, Sports

Devils draw the Greenville Comets

October 21, 2017 By Leave a Comment

I am finally able to get on the IHSA website.  Here are the full pairings for Class 1A-5A.  Local teams will be in bold.  Throughout the week, I will try to preview every playoff game involving River to River and Black Diamond schools.

There could be a battle at the Train Yard II on Week 11.

Class 1A

Game 1 — #16 Toulon (Stark County) (5-4) at #1 Lena (L.-Winslow) (9-0), TBA

Game 2 — #9 Abingdon (A.-Avon) (7-2) at #8 Milledgeville (7-2), TBA

Game 3 — #13 Cuba [North Fulton Coop] (6-3) at #4 Stockton (7-2), TBA

Game 4 — #12 Fisher (6-3) at #5 Freeport (Aquin) (7-2), TBA

Game 5 — #15 Orangeville (5-4) at #2 Kewanee (Wethersfield) [A.-Wethersfield Coop] (8-1), TBA

Game 6 — #10 Princeville (7-2) at #7 Dakota (7-2), TBA

Game 7 — #14 Catlin (Salt Fork) (5-4) at #3 Forreston (8-1), TBA

Game 8 — #11 Fulton (H.S.) (6-3) at #6 Ottawa (Marquette) (7-2), TBA

Game 9 — #16 Chester (5-4) at #1 Tuscola (9-0), TBA

Game 10 — #9 Mt. Sterling (Brown County) (7-2) at #8 Arcola (7-2), TBA

Game 11 — #13 Madison (6-3) at #4 Carrollton (8-1), TBA

Game 12 — #12 Hardin (Calhoun) [Coop] (6-3) at #5 Camp Point (Central) (7-2), TBA

Game 13 — #15 Pleasant Hill [Coop] (5-4) at #2 Bridgeport (Red Hill) (9-0), TBA

Game 14 — #10 Toledo (Cumberland) (7-2) at #7 Decatur (D. Lutheran) [Coop] (7-2), TBA

Game 15 — #14 Moweaqua (Central A & M) (5-4) at #3 Argenta (A.-Oreana) (8-1), TBA

Game 16 — #11 Warrensburg (W.-Latham) (6-3) at #6 Athens (7-2), TBA

Class 2A

Game 1 — #16 Aurora (A. Christian) (5-4) at #1 Sterling (Newman Central Catholic) (9-0), TBA

Game 2 — #9 Chicago (Orr) (7-2) at #8 Chicago (C. Hope Academy) (7-2), TBA

Game 3 — #13 Rockford (R. Christian) (5-4) at #4 Orion (7-2), TBA

Game 4 — #12 Aledo (Mercer County) (5-4) at #5 Clifton (Central) (7-2), TBA

Game 5 — #15 Lanark (Eastland) [E.-Pearl City Coop] (5-4) at #2 Gibson City (G.C.-Melvin-Sibley) (9-0), TBA

Game 6 — #10 Savanna (West Carroll) (6-3) at #7 Minonk (Fieldcrest) (7-2), TBA

Game 7 — #14 El Paso (E.P.-Gridley) (5-4) at #3 Taylor Ridge (Rockridge) (8-1), TBA

Game 8 — #11 Chicago (Marshall) (6-3) at #6 Knoxville (7-2), TBA

Game 9 — #16 Auburn (5-4) at #1 Hamilton [West Hancock Coop] (9-0), TBA

Game 10 — #9 Carmi (C.-White County) (6-3) at #8 Bismarck (B.-Henning-Rossville-Alvin) (6-3), TBA

Game 11 — #13 Carthage (Illini West) (6-3) at #4 Maroa (M.-Forsyth) (8-1), TBA

Game 12 — #12 Red Bud (6-3) at #5 Eldorado (7-2), TBA

Game 13 — #15 Mackinaw (Deer Creek-M.) (5-4) at #2 Westville (9-0), TBA

Game 14 — #10 Carlyle (6-3) at #7 Sciota (West Prairie) [Bushnell-West Prairie Coop] (7-2), TBA

Game 15 — #14 Bunker Hill [Coop] (5-4) at #3 Downs (Tri-Valley) (8-1), TBA

Game 16 — #11 Villa Grove [V.G.-Heritage Coop] (6-3) at #6 Shelbyville (7-2), TBA

Class 3A

Game 1 — #16 Winnebago (6-3) at #1 Farmington (9-0), TBA

Game 2 — #9 Elmwood [E.-Brimfield Coop] (7-2) at #8 Wilmington (8-1), TBA

Game 3 — #13 Paxton (P.-Buckley-Loda) (6-3) at #4 Peotone (8-1), TBA

Game 4 — #12 Watseka [Coop] (7-2) at #5 Elmhurst (IC Catholic) (8-1), TBA

Game 5 — #15 Spring Valley (Hall) (6-3) at #2 Williamsville (9-0), TBA

Game 6 — #10 Beardstown (7-2) at #7 Bloomington (Central Catholic) (8-1), TBA

Game 7 — #14 Eureka (6-3) at #3 Byron (9-0), TBA

Game 8 — #11 Poplar Grove (North Boone) (7-2) at #6 Monticello (8-1), TBA

Game 9 — #16 Pleasant Plains (6-3) at #1 Trenton (Wesclin) (9-0), TBA

Game 10 — #9 Alton (Marquette) (8-1) at #8 Newton (8-1), TBA

Game 11 — #13 Marshall (6-3) at #4 Decatur (St. Teresa) (8-1), TBA

Game 12 — #12 Wood River (East Alton-W.R.) (7-2) at #5 Carlinville (8-1), TBA

Game 13 — #15 Vandalia (6-3) at #2 Fairfield (9-0), TBA

Game 14 — #10 Greenville (7-2) at #7 Sesser (S.-Valier) [Coop] (8-1), TBA

Game 15 — #14 Hillsboro (6-3) at #3 Anna (A.-Jonesboro) (9-0), TBA

Game 16 — #11 DuQuoin (H.S.) (7-2) at #6 Pana (H.S.) (8-1), TBA

Class 4A

Game 1 — #16 Chicago (Urban Prep/Englewood) (5-4) at #1 Johnsburg (9-0), TBA

Game 2 — #9 Chicago (Agricultural Science) (6-3) at #8 Rochelle (6-3), TBA

Game 3 — #13 Norridge (Ridgewood) (6-3) vs. #4 Chicago (Sullivan) (8-1) at TBA, TBA

Game 4 — #12 Kewanee (H.S.) (6-3) at #5 Morris (7-2), TBA

Game 5 — #15 Rock Island (Alleman) (5-4) vs. #2 Chicago (Raby) (8-1) at TBA, TBA

Game 6 — #10 Richmond (R.-Burton) (6-3) vs. #7 Chicago (Urban Prep/Bronzeville) (7-2) at TBA, TBA

Game 7 — #14 Geneseo (5-4) at #3 Dixon (H.S.) (8-1), TBA

Game 8 — #11 Elmwood Park (6-3) at #6 Genoa (G.-Kingston) (7-2), TBA

Game 9 — #16 Fairbury (Prairie Central) (5-4) at #1 Rochester (9-0), TBA

Game 10 — #9 Carterville (7-2) at #8 Belleville (Althoff Catholic) (8-1), TBA

Game 11 — #13 Paris (6-3) at #4 Herrin (H.S.) (8-1), TBA

Game 12 — #12 Pontiac (6-3) at #5 Tolono (Unity) (8-1), TBA

Game 13 — #15 Quincy (Notre Dame) (5-4) at #2 Highland (9-0), TBA

Game 14 — #10 Manteno (6-3) at #7 Effingham (H.S.) (8-1), TBA

Game 15 — #14 Columbia (5-4) at #3 Herscher (8-1), TBA

Game 16 — #11 Coal City (6-3) at #6 Taylorville (8-1), TBA

Class 5A

Game 1 — #16 Chicago (Morgan Park) (5-4) vs. #1 Chicago (Phillips) (9-0) at TBA, TBA

Game 2 — #9 Chicago (Solorio Academy) (7-2) vs. #8 Chicago (Back of the Yards) (8-1) at TBA, TBA

Game 3 — #13 Woodstock (North) (5-4) at #4 Lemont (H.S.) (8-1), TBA

Game 4 — #12 Chicago (Westinghouse) (5-4) at #5 Lake Villa (Lakes) (8-1), TBA

Game 5 — #15 Arlington Heights (St. Viator) (5-4) at #2 Sterling (H.S.) (9-0), TBA

Game 6 — #10 Maple Park (Kaneland) (6-3) vs. #7 Chicago (Lindblom) (8-1) at TBA, TBA

Game 7 — #14 Woodstock (Marian) (5-4) at #3 Antioch (9-0), TBA

Game 8 — #11 Glen Ellyn (Glenbard South) (5-4) vs. #6 Chicago (Payton) (8-1) at TBA, TBA

Game 9 — #16 Streator (Twp.) (5-4) at #1 Dunlap (9-0), TBA

Game 10 — #9 Marion (H.S.) (6-3) at #8 Olympia Fields (Rich Central) (7-2), TBA

Game 11 — #13 Peoria (H.S.) (6-3) at #4 Country Club Hills (Hillcrest) (7-2), TBA

Game 12 — #12 Mahomet (M.-Seymour) (6-3) at #5 Chatham (Glenwood) (7-2), TBA

Game 13 — #15 Peoria (Richwoods) (5-4) at #2 Troy (Triad) (8-1), TBA

Game 14 — #10 Morton (6-3) at #7 Centralia (H.S.) (7-2), TBA

Game 15 — #14 Tinley Park (H.S.) (5-4) at #3 Washington (7-2), TBA

Game 16 — #11 Peoria (Notre Dame) (6-3) at #6 Decatur (MacArthur) (7-2), TBA

 

Filed Under: High School Sports, Sesser-Valier High School Sports, Sports

Christopher-Zeigler Royalton’s season ends losing to Hamco last night

October 21, 2017 By Leave a Comment

by Steve Dunford

This is the first year that I have wrote these for football.  The last couple years, I have wrote these after each team loses out in the post season.

High school football is a different animal than the other sports, in which you have to qualify for the post season.

This is the second 0-9 season in a row the Bearcats have put up.  They did not have a game that did not go into running clock toward the end.

I had the opportunity to be around the program a lot last season.  In the midst of a losing season, one thing that blew me away was the fan support.  Even though there have been a shuffle in roles, the coaching staff is basically the same.

 

Randall Risley let me use his pictures this year but I am going to post what he said about the coaching staff.

“No matter the situation, no matter the score, all of the coaches for CZR, coached, taught and encouraged the kids. They will be better players because these coaches, even, maybe especially the gruff looking Buddy Velasco, care. Now it is up to the players to, when taught, learn and when encouraged, work. I would be happy to have a son play for these coaches.”

First hand, I can attest what Randall Risley said about the coaching staff.

I remember a conversation that I had with Eldorado two weeks ago that sums up how to rebuild a program.  He was telling me about the early days when Brandon Hampton took over the program.

He said you put two or three possessions together. Then you get a win.  Then you beat a quality opponent.

I have talked to Coach Hargrove a couple of times through the season.  He always said the goal on Friday night is to increase the Football IQ.  The wins we concentrate on are on Monday Night.

I moved to West Frankfort a little over two years ago.  I caught a few games in an 0-9 season.  There was a 1-8 season the year before.  When Edwards County went in the Black Diamond, there some arm chair AD’s that were calling for West Frankfort to join the Diamond.

In week 1 they went down and nearly knocked off a good A-J team down at Anna. I was at Spann Field two years ago when I heard Adam Rosho announce the losing streak was over.  The next week the Redbirds picked up a big win over Sparta.

The next week, on a windy Saturday afternoon finishing up a suspended game, the Redbirds picked up their signature win against Harrisburg.  A few weeks later I was covering a playoff football game in Canton.

Last night a young WF team was five seconds away from making another playoff appearance.

You might be reading this and say who cares about Frankfort?  This is about Christopher.

There is a very talented sophomore class from Christopher.  There is a talented freshman class at Z-R.  I hope my few words about the Redbirds will give some optimism for 2018.

Story from the Benton News

http://www.bentoneveningnews.com/sports/20171021/bearcats-drop-battle-of-the-winless-with-hamco

 

 

 

Filed Under: Christopher High School Sports, High School Sports, Sports, Zeigler Royalton Junior High Sports
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