DC UrbanSports

Jimmy Lange To Defend WBU Title Against Ruben Galvan February 11

2012-01-28T16:02:00.004-05:00

Former Contender Star Headlines 14th Card at Patriot Center

Northern Virginia's Jimmy Lange (37-4-2, 25 KOs) will defend his World Boxing Union (WBU) junior middleweight title against veteran Ruben Galvan (27-20-4, 10 KOs) of Hammond, Ind., as the Main Event of the February 11, 2012 card at the Patriot Center.

Galvan is a Chicago-based Mexican American fighter boasting more than 50 pro bouts. Nicknamed the ‘Modern Day Warrior,’ he has faced such notables as Jorge Paez, Paul Spadafora, Dmitriy Salita, Zab Judah, Vernon Paris and current WBC middleweight world champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. over his career. In his last fight, he lost a 10-round decision to Paul Delgado, in Atlanta on December 12, 2011.

Lange captured the WBU title with a crowd-pleasing six-round TKO over Raul Munoz at the Patriot Center on September 10, 2011. The turning point came in the fifth round with Lange’s solid right to his opponent’s chin. Lange’s left hook in round six took him down, and he finished Munoz by knocking him down two more times en route to his 25th victory by knockout.

The February 11 card also feature two additional world title bouts with Mike “No Joke” Stewart against Joe Wyatt for the vacant WBU welterweight belt and WBC middleweight champion Tori “Sho Nuff” Nelson of Ashburn, Va., facing Vashon “Lady V” Living for the vacant WIBA women’s middleweight crown.

Also added are top regional welterweight prospects, Richie “The Rock” Andrews (2-0-3) and Juan “Savior” Rodriguez (4-1-1, 4 KOs), who will square off again in a four-round rematch.

The rest of the undercard will feature two dominant local fighters, both undefeated. Chantilly, Va. junior middleweight Zain “Tiger” Shah will face his toughest test to date with highly regarded “Lightning” Harry Joe Yorgey, while junior welterweight Todd “White Lightning” Wilson of Fairfax, Va., vies for his 12th win opposite Fernando “The Whip” Basora.

A heavyweight battle between pro debuting Duane Mobley of Upper Marlboro, Md., and Dennis Benson of Norfolk, Va. is also scheduled.

Devin Thomas Is "Goin' To the Super Bowl!"

2012-01-23T15:54:00.008-05:00

"First off I must thank the man up stairs for blessing me and keeping me humble and faithful thru all the adversity in my career. This Is why I wanted to make it to the NFL to have a shot at a world championship. I love my brothers on this team and the moment is now! ALL IN BABY! Shout out to everyone that has wished for my success. ONE LOVE to my people back home and my Spartan Dawgs! GMEN fans... We Goin to the SUPERBOWL!"

That's a quote from the Facebook page of New York Giants' wide receiver, Devin Thomas who had to significant plays to help his team gain rights to another Super Bowl.

Play No. 1.

Thomas took off with the bowl into the 49er endzone after seeing the ball just barely graze the leg of San Francisco's Kyle Williams and later bounce onto the field.

It was the perfect move in a perfect storm.

Said Thomas after the game, "When they missed the call and said it was their ball, I told Coach right away, ‘Throw the flag, throw the flag.’ ”

Thomas would prove his worth again, (Play No. 2) this time, securing the ball late in the fourth quarter after Jacquian Williams stripped the ball from Kyle Williams where it would bounce to ground.

Guess who was there to recover?

"And when I saw the ball on the ground, I didn’t want to try to do too much, just make sure I fell on the ball", explained Thomas who, just year, was cut from the Washington Redskins.

The Giants gained the victory, and Thomas gained a game ball worth remembering.

“This ball I’m not giving up.”

New York defeated the 49ers 20-17 in a game that saw the DC area's favorite San Franciso 49er, Vernon Davis scored two touchdowns on the day.

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Related
The neighboring Baltimore Ravens saw their Super Bowl hopes dashed after losing 20-23 to the New England Patriots.

“We were definitely a better team this year than we were by far the past two years,” linebacker Jarrett Johnson added. “We’re a more complete team, more mature team, more talented. It’s disappointing.”

Fans across the DMV feel the same way.

Out at Redskins Park (Abbreviated Version)
Redskins hired Raheem Morris as Defensive Backs Coach.

The Redskins have also hired Ike Hilliard as the team’s Wide Receivers Coach. In addition, the team announced that Bob Slowik will move to Linebackers Coach after having coached the team’s secondary for the past two seasons.

At The White House: 2011 World Champion St. Louis Cardinals

2012-01-17T23:48:00.011-05:00

The Greatest Comeback Team In History of MLB?

The President and First Lady (on her 48th birthday) hosted the 2011 World Champion St. Louis Cardinals at the White House today.

President Obama and First Lady Michelle receive their official World Series jerseys and baseball bats.
"Last August, with just 31 games to play in the regular season, the Cardinals were 10 and a half games out of the playoff race", said the president. "At one point, they had a less than 4 percent mathematical chance of making the playoffs. In Las Vegas, they were 500-to-1 longshots to win the World Series. And when Chris Carpenter pulled the team together for a meeting, his message was simple: Let’s not embarrass ourselves. (Laughter.) But through skills and guts, and I think the team would agree just a little bit of luck -- just a touch -- this team made the playoffs. And even though they trailed in each of the series that followed, they somehow had the spirit and the determination and the resolve to survive."

Click arrow to view video.

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The Cardinals beat the Texas Rangers 6-2 in Game 7 of the World Series.

A Washington Kastle In Sydney

2012-01-11T23:13:00.002-05:00

Bobby Reynolds of the Kastles is making quite the splash in Sydney, where he's advanced to his first ATP World Tour quarterfinal since the summer of 2008.

Coming off a successful season on the USTA Pro Circuit, the Kastles' closer gained entry into the Sydney singles main draw by winning three matches in the qualifying event.

Reynolds hasn't stopped there, defeating world No. 61 Sergiy Stakhovsky 7-5, 6-3 in the first round and upsetting No. 2 seed John Isner of the Boston Lobsters 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 to reach the quarterfinals.

After splitting the first two sets with the 6-foot-9 Isner, Reynolds raised his game when it matted most. The Kastle made 81 percent of his first serves and won 69 percent of his second serve return points in the final set, taking it to the much taller Isner. With precise passing shots off both his forehand and backhand, Reynolds broke Isner twice in the third set before serving the match out at love.

In terms of rankings, Reynolds' win over the 17th-ranked Isner is the biggest victory of his career.

"I'm happy to get it done," Reynolds said during a video interview on ATPWorldTour.com (click on the thumbnail below to watch the interview). "It was a tough match for both of us today with the conditions being really windy. But I felt like I served well and I returned well when I needed to, and I took advantage of the break points that I got."

We're not suprised on the success of Reynolds. We witnessed his tennis prowess this summer during a Washington Kastles home game.

Take a look see!

Twice Is The Charm for Redskins' London Fletcher

2012-01-11T17:17:00.007-05:00

Pro-Bowler (Heck of a Baller) and Bart Starr Award Recipient.

Redskin linebacker, and on-the-field threat, London Fletcher can add a new accolade to his arsenal this year after being named the recipient of the 2012 Bart Starr Award.

Redskin London Fletcher (#59) 2012 Pro-Bowler/Bart Starr Award recipient.
The award recognizes one (just one) NFL player for outstanding character and leadership in the home, on the field and in the community. Other finalists for the award were Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha and Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten.

Fletcher tweeted: "Truly humbled by this award."

He will be honored during the 25th Annual NFL-Sanctioned Super Bowl Breakfast, presented by Bob and Kathy Andersen and Companies with a Mission, on Feb. 4, 2012, at 8 a.m. ET at the Exposition Hall of the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis (1202 East 38th Street).

In his 14th year in the NFL, Fletcher, one of the Redskins’ captains, has been active in charitable projects across the country. He founded the London’s Bridge Foundation in 2003, through which he has impacted underprivileged children in his hometown of Cleveland, as well as Washington, D.C., Buffalo, N.Y., and Charlotte, N.C. The foundation runs mentoring programs and charitable giving to support health and fitness, education and leadership programs. He has been involved in the Redskins’ Harvest Feast, the “Stuff a Backpack” School Supply Drive, The Children’s Inn and visits to Walter Reed Army Medical Center, among many other projects.

The winner of the Bart Starr Award is voted by NFL players and is named after NFL Hall of Famer Bart Starr. The award honors the player who best exemplifies Starr’s commitment to family, teammates and the community. Past winners include Drew Brees, Kurt Warner, LaDainian Tomlinson, Darren Woodson, Reggie White and Mike Singletary. Fletcher is the second member of the Redskins to receive the honor, following in the footsteps of Pro Football Hall of Fame cornerback Darrell Green, who won the award in 1997.

Earlier in the week, the NFL announced that Fletcher, a second-team All-Pro selection by the Associated Press in 2011, will appear in his third consecutive Pro Bowl after amassing a league-leading 166 tackles this season, his highest single-season total since the NFL began independently tracking tackle data in 2001.

The Redskins coaching staff credited Fletcher with 209 tackles (123 solo) for the season, matching his career-high for coach-awarded tackles, established as a member of the Buffalo Bills in 2002. In addition, Fletcher also added 1.5 sacks, 14 quarterback pressures, 11 passes defensed, three forced fumbles and two interceptions.

Hunter to Khan Camp: "We Will Continue To Fight For What is Just and Proper"

2012-01-11T16:35:00.009-05:00

The Peterson/Khan saga has taken on, yet another, dimension.

The Amir Khan camp is continuing its process of appealing the judges decision in the December 10th fight where Khan lost both his IBF and WBA belts to DC boxer Lamont Peterson.

Ameen Mustafa (foreground) and Peterson trainer, Barry Hunter in a battle of their own. Collage/CD Brown.
Khan's handlers are now suggesting that Ameen Mustafa, the self-proclaimed "helper to retired boxers" somehow influenced the judges' decision on that fateful night when a crowd of more than 8,000 people flooded the DC Convention Center to witness boxing history in the making.

Why was Mustafa around the judges table at the fight? That question, and more, will be addressed in an upcoming IBF hearing which Mustafa is said to attend.

Meanwhile, Lamont Peterson's trainer, the one and only Barry Hunter, has issued a statement addressing the ruling appeal and the 'Mustafa issue'.

In a statement from Hunter's PR team, ProImage, Barry emphatically states:

"Unfortunately, we are in this process of dealing with these unfounded protests. It would be an understatement to characterize Lamont as being disappointed in the unprofessional manner in which Khan is attempting to discredit his performance in the ring and victory. We were raised to conduct ourselves where Champions display professionalism, both in victory and defeat. Lamont previously tasted defeat and handled it the way it should be handled: he worked harder on areas that needed improvement to maximize his performance in the ring. Now, he is World Champion.

Khan blames everyone and everything but his performance and lack of ability to make adjustments in the ring for his loss. He claims that the Ring Announcer privately stated he won, then that the referee’s discretionary actions should be overruled, then a mystery man in a black hat with no association to the Peterson Camp somehow affected the outcome of the bout, and also that the judges did not score the Bout correctly. Each claim is boldly false, but because Golden Boy and Khan have the financial resources to file protests and lawyers to create questionable accusations we are forced to address these issues.

We will not let these foul tactics take away from Lamont's hard work, dedication and monumental victory. Furthermore, since Khan continues to focus on a man at ringside I want to be very clear: Mustafa Ameen is in no way, nor has he ever been affiliated or associated with anyone within Team Peterson. That includes myself, Lamont and Anthony Peterson.

If the media reports are true, the WBA President personally believes there should be a direct rematch of the fight. This was oddly stated before an official review had taken place, as well as an official response or decision from the WBA review committee had been presented regarding the various protests and our formal submission. That makes me wonder what procedures were actually followed before the WBA President made these public statements? The Rules should be followed by everyone.
Khan complains that the referee’s decisions should be overturned even though he continued to push Lamont throughout the fight. We believe the knockdown against Lamont was questionable but the rules give the referee that discretion on that call and we respect it.

When Zab Judah filed protests for Khan's repeated low blows in their July 2011 bout Golden Boy and Khan argued that a referee's decisions should be honored. Now, Golden Boy and Khan are flip flopping on the referee’s decision when it’s not favorable towards them not the actions of a true champion.

Immediately following our bout Golden Boy and Khan requested a meeting among us with the sanctioning organizations and the Boxing Commission. When we left the meeting Oscar De La Hoya, Bernard Hopkins and I agreed with the commission that the scorecards were correct and Lamont won the fight. Real Champions don’t continue to come up with various excuses and false accusations in hopes that something will stick to cover up for a loss.

The bottom line is that after we decided not to accept Golden Boy's offer for a rematch only days after the fight and said that Lamont wanted to enjoy the Holidays with his family and have time to make the best decision for his career and the future of his family; they started filing protest letters and trying to spin the media as some form of retaliation. If the media reports are true, then the actions of a few will put every close decision in boxing in jeopardy of being overturned. We will not let that happen. We will continue to fight for what is just and proper."

The saga continues.

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Related
Khan Appeals Fight Decision

Capital Showdown Fight Pictures

King Pete Reigns Supreme

Dallas Mavericks Honored at the White House

2012-01-10T20:31:00.014-05:00

Former Wizard comes 'home'.

The Dallas Mavericks were recognized by President Obama on Monday for winning the 2011 NBA Championship. (Relive the excitement here).

Dallas Mavericks' head coach Mark Cuban with President Obama at the White House on Monday. Photo/CD Brown.
The Mavericks defeated the Miami Heat, 105-95, in Game 6 of the NBA Finals, winning their first NBA title in franchise history.

"Some called them the Bad News Bears", joked President Obama who predicted that his beloved Chicago Bulls would be standing in the Mavs' place next year.

The president continued to quote the 'naysayers' who had counted the team as down and out.

"Some said Jason Kidd was too old. Some said Dirk Nowitzky was too slow."

Looking around for Dirk, President Obama said to a room full of laughs, "They did say that Dirk. I'm sorry".

The Mavericks' championship team included three former Washington Wizards on its roster: DeShawn Stevenson, Caron Butler (who sat out with an injury), and Brendan Hayward. Of the three only Hayward remains. He joined his fellow teammates on stage in the White House East Room.

Former Washington Wizard Brendan Haywood (rear) with President Obama at the White House on Monday. Photo/CD Brown.
The newly acquired Vince Carter and former LA Laker Lamar Odom were also in attendance.

"It's an honor", said Carter on getting the chance to visit the White House. He described the opportunity as "second to none".

The Mavs currently rank 'second' in the Southwest division with a 4-5 record.

Carter said the team is doing fine. "We're right in the mix of things. Once we start jelling together we're going to be okay."

While the visit to the White House was Carter's first experience, it Lamar Odom's second. He visited the White House as an LA Laker, along with former teammate Kobe Bryant (view here), and again as a Dallas Maverick.

"It's always great", said Odom. "It's a tremendous opportunity to be around tradition. It's a blessing."

Odom was traded to the Mavs after expressing his dislike of the Lakers' desire to trade out of LA in return for Chris Paul. Paul is now with the Sacramento Clippers.

Ironically, Odom, speaking of the Mavs record, told us "life is full of second chances."

For now, Odom's 'second chance' comes in the form of being a Dallas Maverick.

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Note: While visiting the White House the Mavericks visited with wounded warriors.

Related: View photos of the Mavs' White House visit.

Charles Barkley's "Post Game Translator" App

2012-01-08T17:00:00.016-05:00

The Straight-No-Chaser Commentator Translator

If there was ever a person thought to shoot it straight (cut the bull- say what's on his mind), the world knows it's Charles Barkley.

To that point, this brash (and sometimes crass) NBA analyst has gone high tech with his new App (as introduced on Saturday Night Live this past weekend) that gets to the meat of what coaches and players really mean (and want to say, but often do not) during their post game interviews.

Redskin coach Mike Shanahan gets 'translated' by Charles Barkley.
Barkley deciphers (and translates) the rhetoric of the mostly PC speaking coaches and athletes, giving us the straight dope (telling it like it T-I-S, in case you were wondering), even taking a shot at a few of the NBA, MLB and NFL's standouts - including Redskin coach Mike Shanahan.

[Scroll to the :52 mark for the Shanahan translation, however, the entire segment is worth watching].

Can't view the segment? Click here.
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Related
No 'translation' is needed for what Barkley said about Weight Watchers, the outfit he claims helped him lose more than thirty pounds. No translation needed. Barkley called WW "a scam".

“I have to lose two pounds a week. I’m at 38 pounds now. They come and weigh me every two weeks. I’ve never missed a weigh-in. I’m never going to,” Barkley begins. “I’m feeling much better. But I ain’t giving away no money. … I’m not giving away no free money. I thought this was the greatest scam going — getting paid to watch sports — but this Weight Watchers thing is a bigger scam.”

More
Before Barkley's PGT, there was this.

Thanks to Sandusky FBI Changes Definition of Dreaded Crime

2012-01-06T16:15:00.007-05:00

For decades the definition of rape was thought to have included women and young girls only.

Today, the FBI has decided to do one better.

Based on reported data that includes more information from victims, that have included men, the new definition of rape is now:

“The penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of the victim.”

“These long overdue updates to the definition of rape will help ensure justice for those whose lives have been devastated by sexual violence and reflect the Department of Justice’s commitment to standing with rape victims,” Attorney General Holder said. “This new, more inclusive definition will provide us with a more accurate understanding of the scope and volume of these crimes.”

Holder announced revisions to the Uniform Crime Report’s (UCR) definition which will lead to a more comprehensive statistical reporting of rape nationwide.

One can only discern that the recently reported brutal, heinous acts brought by Penn State football coach Gerry Sandusky who took sexual liberties with young boys for decades had a hand in the decision of the FBI's decision to make these changes.

“Rape is a devastating crime and we can’t solve it unless we know the full extent of it,” said Vice President Biden, a leader in the effort to end violence against women for over 20 years and author of the landmark Violence Against Women Act. “This long-awaited change to the definition of rape is a victory for women and men across the country whose suffering has gone unaccounted for over 80 years.”

For more click here.

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Disclaimer: We can't say for sure that the Penn State events triggered the recent FBI action, but we sure think it had played a part.

Yorgey, Shah Added to February 11th Bout

2012-01-05T23:43:00.002-05:00

Jimmy Lange Boxing officials announced today that highly-rated junior middleweight contender “Lightning” Harry Joe Yorgey (23-1-1, 11 KOs) of Bridgeport, Pa., will square off with undefeated local power puncher Zain “Tiger” Shah (5-0, 3 KOs) of Chantilly, Va., in a six-round contest on Saturday, February 11, 2012 at the Patriot Center. The action-packed card, presented by Valcourt Building Services, features three world title bouts headlined by Jimmy Lange’s defense of his World Boxing Union 154-lb. belt (opponent TBA).

Yorgey, coming off a fifth-round KO win against Donovan Castaneda last February, has suffered only one loss – a third-round KO to Alfredo Angulo for the World Boxing Organization Junior Middleweight Championship – during his ten-year career. The Philadelphia-area fighter has captured a pair of 154-lb. championships. He defeated Jason LeHoullier via majority decision for the International Boxing Federal International title on August 22, 2008 and won the International Boxing Association Intercontinental belt with a ninth-round KO over Ronald Hearns on March 28, 2009. This fight marks his debut in the Capital area.

Shah, a Northern Virginia native who trains at LA Boxing’s Reston gym, last fought on September 10, 2011 at the Patriot Center where he scored a controversial second-round KO over Baltimore’s Julius “Vicious” Kennedy. Midway through the second round after knocking his opponent down once, Shah dropped Kennedy again with a solid right. However, his quick follow-up strike appeared to hit Kennedy while he was still down with one hand touching the mat. The Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation officially changed the decision to ‘no contest’ on December 20, 2011. This will be Shah’s fourth appearance at the Patriot Center.

Officials also announced that Upper Marlboro, Md. heavyweight Duane Mobley will make his professional debut against undefeated Dennis Benson (1-0, 1 KO) of Norfolk, Va. in a four-round tilt. Mobley fights out of Sugar Ray Leonard’s gym in Palmer Park, Md., and compiled an amateur record of 27-2. Benson’s victory came against another Beltway boxer and teammate of Mobley’s, Abodurin Akinyanju, via a third-round KO last November at the nearby Showplace Arena.

In the Co-Main Event, top veterans Michael “No Joke” Stewart and Joe Wyatt will challenge for the vacant WBU welterweight championship, while Tori “Sho Nuff” Nelson of Ashburn, Va., will face Vashon “Lady V” Living for the vacant Women’s International Boxing Association (WIBA) middleweight championship belt. Also on the card is undefeated local prospect Todd “White Lightning” Wilson taking on Fernando “El Latigo” Basora.

Doors will open at 6:00 pm, with the first fight scheduled to begin at 7:00 pm.

Out At Redskins Park: Alexander Gets Man of the Year Nod

2012-01-05T23:28:00.002-05:00

The Washington Redskins announced today that linebacker Lorenzo Alexander has been selected as the team’s 2011 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year. This is Alexander’s second consecutive selection for the team’s award.

The Man of the Year honor is the only league award that recognizes players’ off-the-field community service as well as playing excellence. This year’s finalists — one player from each NFL team — have demonstrated an outstanding balance between civic and professional responsibilities in their lives this season.

Alexander, the Redskins’ Special Teams Captain, is nominated for the league-wide award to be selected from 32 NFL players. As the Redskins’ winner of the award, Alexander will receive a $1,000 donation for his A.C.E.S. (Accountability, Community, Education, Sports) Foundation.

“Without the first three, you’re not going to be successful,” Alexander said of accountability, community and education. “That means making the right decisions, being a good person, serving your community and helping others.”

Since starting A.C.E.S. in 2008, Alexander has donated more than $62,000 to help support his philanthropic work both in Oakland, Calif. and in the Washington, D.C. region. Through his foundation, Alexander tutors young people and runs college prep and life skills workshops, hosts youth football clinics and speaks to nonprofit groups. To help kids focus on education, he provides school supplies to hundreds of youth that cannot afford to purchase the necessary tools for school. In November 2011, his foundation launched “Real Talk Education Workshop” at his former middle school to help them understand the importance of education.

Alexander has participated in more than 52 team-related community events since joining the Redskins organization. He participates in reading events, speaks to high school athletes about character, work ethic, and the danger of steroids and performance enhancing drugs, encourages youth to get physically active through PLAY 60 initiatives, distributes toys, coats, and food to underserved communities. He also speaks on Capitol Hill and walks to raise awareness for chronic kidney disease, talks to wounded warriors at Walter Reed, and sits by the bedside of kids battling terminal illnesses at children’s hospitals.

Three finalists for the league-wide award will receive an additional $5,000 and be invited to the Super Bowl in Indianapolis, with the winner announced at the NFL Honors show the night before the Super Bowl. The overall winner will receive a $25,000 donation to the 501(c)3 organization of his choice.

The prestigious award was renamed in 1999 for the legendary Chicago Bears Pro Football Hall of Fame running back, Walter Payton. The Walter Payton Man of the Year Award has been given annually since 1970.

Past Redskins nominees of the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year include: Lorenzo Alexander, 2010, London Fletcher, 2009 (selected as an overall finalist) & 2008; Rocky McIntosh, 2007; Renaldo Wynn, 2006; Shawn Springs, 2005; Chris Cooley, 2004; Darnerian McCants, 2003; Eddie Mason, 2002; Chris Samuels, 2001; Darrell Green, 1996 (won the national award); and Joe Theismann, 1982 (won the national award).

Former G'town Basketball Star Shoots It Straight

2012-01-03T22:19:00.006-05:00

Former Georgetown University basketball star and Comcast SportsNet college basketball analyst Mark Tillmon’s Shooting Straight Program, Inc. presents the first MLK Hoopfest high school basketball showcase Monday, January 16th at Calvin Coolidge High School in Washington, D.C.

Former Georgetown standout Mark Tillman interviews current Georgetown men's basketball coach John Thompson, Jr.
The one-day high school basketball extravaganza features eight teams in a four game format showcasing athletes from Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia that will be broadcast on Comcast Sportsnet Mid Atlantic. This event is a platform designed to give high school basketball student athletes exposure for recruiters from major colleges and universities while providing them the tools to obtain life skills and lessons that address their educational, health and social needs.

The matchups feature Sidwell Friends (DC) versus T.C. Williams (Alexandria, Virginia) in a contest with Sidwell's top prospect, Josh Hart. Defending Maryland 4A champion North Point will meet two time Virginia champion I.C. Norcum from Portsmouth. Fans will see two of the Class of 2013’s top prospects when Baltimore’s Patterson High - led by guard Aquille Carr, faces Gonzaga (DC) and North Carolina bound Nate Britt. Also among the top prospect in the class of 2013 - Troy Williams - who leads Phoebus (Va.) into a contest with DCIAA runner up and host Coolidge.

In addition to the basketball game, the Shooting Straight Program, Inc. has developed several events that will expand on basketball and life skills for the athletes. A special youth clinic will allow players in attendance evaluations from a coach, as well as advice on proper dieting on game day. The athletes will also participate in mock press conferences as they learn public speaking and tips on dealing with the media. During the MLK Sports Panel discussion, the athletes will discuss conflict management, NCAA eligibility requirements, and life after sports.

Mark Tillmon is a D.C. native and founder of the Shooting Straight Program.

Tillmon excelled in academics and athletics while attending Gonzaga High School in D.C. He earned a scholarship to Georgetown University earning four letters under the tutelage of legendary coach John Thompson, Jr. The Georgetown Hoyas have won their last 10 games in a row.

For more information log on to www.marktillmon.com or call 1-888-TILL (8455).

James 'Puts A Ring On It'

2012-01-01T20:07:00.010-05:00

Makes It Official at Birthday/New Years' Eve/Engagement Party

At a New Year's Eve (and his 28th birthday) party LeBron James makes it official by finally asking the mother of this two children, Savannah Brinson (whom he called his Sidekick just last year), to marry him.

James with his Miami Heat boys and his soon-to-be-bride, Savannah (far right).
Bringing in 2012 with family and friends, among them Miami Heat stars Dwayne Wade (with actress Gabrielle Union) and Chris Bosh, the newly engaged couple partied the night away at Miami's SL night club.

James tweeted (not about his engagement, however): Wanna thank all my family, friends and fans for all the B-day wishes today! U guys are far to kind! Love u guys!!

Reaction to the news spread on Twitter with such musings as: "Congrats to @KingJames on getting engaged last night *golf clap* Savannah is now the leader in the James household with one ring."

James and Brinson have been together since James was a national prep star at St. Vincent-St. Mary in Akron, Ohio. The couple's two boys are LeBron, Jr. (7) and Bryce (4).

More NBA Marriage News
Kobe Divorce
Old News, But Still Relevant: Carmelo and LaLa Tie the Knot!
Jordon Proposes on Christmas

Redskins vs Eagles: Just the Positives. Please.

2012-01-01T18:09:00.034-05:00

But First the Facts.

Redskins fans saw their beloved team not only getting a lump of coal for Christmas, after losing to Minnesota on Christmas Eve last Sunday in a home finale (snapping Minnesota's six-game losing streak), but fans were again dissappointed with the start of a new year saw the Redskins losing again - this time to the rival Philadelphia Eagles in the Skins' last game of the season.

Who's glad the Redskins season is over?

The 10-34 loss over Philly officially makes the worst losing record for head coach Mike Shanahan, who topped Jim Zorn's losing record of 6-10 with a new record of his own, 5 wins and 11 losses. In case you didn't know, Jim Zorn had never been a head NFL coach, while Shanahan was bought to Washington because of his previoius NFL playoff and Super Bowl caliber-like coaching experience.

Santana Moss (89) trying to hang on to a pass in the end zone as Philadelphia Eagles' Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (23) defends during the first half v Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Mel Evans)
"We had our chances, but it's disappointing to finish the last quarter like we did", explains Shanahan who earlier in the week said his team 'lacked more depth' than he originally thought.

The Redskins are 2-3 in NFC East play, winning only against the New York Giants in Week 1 (28-14) at home, and again in Week 15 (23-10) on Giant's home turf.

The Eagles (4-1 against NFC East opponents), also defeated the Redskins in Week 6, 20-13, at FedEx Field.

"Rex played a heck of a game today", added Shanahan who applauded his QB for "moving the ball".

That's the same thing Zorn said in his post game press conferences just two years earlier.

As we all know "moving the ball" doesn't win games. Scoring does.

A hurt Roy Helu mustered the only Redskin touchdown today, doing so in the third quarter. Again, the only touchdown score on the day.

Michael Vick threw three touchdown passes, including a 62-yarder to DeSean Jackson in the 4th quarter, bringing the team's end of the season win streak to four games in a row.

Vick makes a pass during the first half of the Eagles' win over the Redskins.(AP Photo/Mel Evans)
Scoring points (not the Skins' strong point), in addition to acquiring an NFL calibre quarterback, must occur if the Skins stand any chance of being a competitive NFL team that can consistently win games, get to, and progress through the playoffs.

Now, the positives on the day.

Certainly, the loss outweighed anything that seemed positive today, but there were a few, starting with linebacker Brian Orakpo who was credited with a first-quarter sack of Michael Vick. The sack was Orakpo’s eighth of the season and his first full sack against Philadelphia in his career.

Brian Orakpo (98) gets at Eagles' QB Mike Vick, sacking the quarterback during the first half. Washington recovered the fumble. (AP Photo/Mel Evans) loss.
Orakpo added another sack in the second quarter, forcing the fifth fumble of his career and his third of the season. Linebacker Perry Riley recovered the fumble, his second recovery of the season and of his career. multi-sack game was his first since Week 4, when Orakpo posted 2.5 sacks at St. Louis on Oct. 2. It was the seventh multi-sack game of his career. Orakpo became the first member of the Redskins to record at least nine sacks in three consecutive seasons since Dexter Manley accomplished the feat across four consecutive seasons from 1983-86.

On today's loss, Orakpo credited the coaching staff, and said the failure was mostly on the players not running the correct schemes.

"We start off well, we just gotta be consistent", said Orakpo. "It's not about physicality. It's about playing assignment football. It's not on the coaches. They're calling a great scheme. We just have to make sure everybody trust each other and everybody plays their assignment."

London Fletcher, perhaps the team's most prolific linebacker to wear a Washington Redskin uniform in the last 15 years, didn't disappoint in today's game. Fletcher, obviously a player any winning NFL team would love to have, (yet continues to stay in Washington) played in his 224th consecutive game. It was also his 179th consecutive start, the most by any active linebacker. Fletcher’s 224th consecutive game played tied him for second-most among defensive players since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger. Fletcher and Barber are now tied with former LB Derrick Brooks and former DE Kevin Carter and trail only former LB Bill Romanowski (243 consecutive games played).Fletcher was credited with four tackles. He finished the season with 166 tackles according to NFL GSIS, the highest total of his career. His previous high according to NFL GSIS was 157, set in 2005 as a member of the Buffalo Bills.

Other positives.

Running back Evan Royster posted his second consecutive 100-yard rushing performance, rushing 20 times for 113 yards. Royster had a 28-yard run in the second quarter, tying his career long from a week ago.

Running back Roy Helu caught a 47-yard touchdown in the third quarter, the first touchdown reception of his career. The 47-yard reception is the Redskins’ longest by a running back since Dec. 21, 2009, when Rock Cartwight caught a 51-yard pass against the New York Giants. Helu's reception is also the longest by a rookie running back this season and the longest by a rookie running back in team history .

Together, Royster and Helu became the first Redskins running back tandem since the 1970 NFL-AFL merger to each post consecutive 100-yard rushing games during a single season.

Now, the quarterback.
Quarterback Rex Grossman surpassed the 10,000-yard career passing mark in the first quarter with a 20-yard completion to fullback Darrel Young in the first quarter. Grossman now has 10,232 passing yards for his career.

Rex Grossman talks to the press after the New Year's Day loss.
Grossman finished the season with 3,151 passing yards in 13 games, only 42 yards shy of matching his career high of 3,193, set in 2006 when he appeared in 16 games as a member of the Chicago Bears.

"I'd love for this to be the place where I end up", Grossman said on if he thinks he'll be asked back next year.

Other player Sunday highlights.

Young had a single-game career-high three receptions. He set single-season career highs in rushing attempts (six), rushing yards (33), receptions (14) and receiving yards (138) during the 2011 season.

Receiver Jabar Gaffney established a single-season career high in receptions, catching four passes to give him 68 receptions for the season, surpassing his previous career high of 65, set last season as a member of the Denver Broncos.

Punter Sav Rocca placed two punts inside the 20-yard line, giving him 28 for the season and tying his career high, set last season. Rocca’s 28 punts downed inside the 20 are the fifth-most in a season in Redskins history and are the most since Tom Tupa had 30 punts downed inside the 20 during the 2004 season. He finished the season with a 39.0-yard net punting average, which trails only Matt Turk’s 1996 and 1997 campaigns (39.2 yards) for the best in team history.

In today's game Skins'safety Oshiomogho Atogwe intercepted a fourth-quarter pass from Philly's Mike Vick, his third of the season and his 25th of his career. Atogwe is the 17th active player to reach 25 career interceptions.

Wide receiver Brandon Banks caught his first pass of the season on a 10-yard reception for a first down in the third quarter.

Kicker Graham Gano converted a 27-yard field goal attempt in the fourth quarter, giving him 31 made field goals on the season, a career high. He tied Chip Lohmiller (1991) for second-most in a single season in team history and finished two field goals shy of tying Mark Moseley’s team record of 33 made field goals in a season (1983). He finished the season with 118 points, a career high and the most by a Redskins player since kicker Scott Blanton and running back Terry Allen had 118 points each during the 1996 season.

Tight end Rob Myers got some playing time today, his first NFL game.

---

Howard defeats Fairleigh Dickinson 66-56.

2011-12-31T02:50:00.004-05:00

The Howard Women’s basketball team pulled out another win to defeat Fairleigh Dickinson by 10, 66-56 on Dec 30 at Stratis Arena. HU finished the month of December with a perfect 7-0 record and improved its overall mark to 8-5 heading into the New Year.

Howard's Zykia Brown leads Bison to 66-56 win over Dickinson.
The Bison started the contest a little rattled as FDU opened with a 10-4 run. The run was ended with a three pointer by Kara Smith at the 12:30 mark. From there, HU found momentum as Smith hit another shot behind the arc to put the Bison down by one, 10-9. Howard picked up its intensity and forced the Knights into a turnover. Following the turnover, Smith drowned a jumper which gave the Bison their first advantage of the half.

The lead changed as Desiree Crawford scored a layup to give FDU the lead back. Howard did not back down as Zykia Brown drained a three-pointer to make it 14-12 at the 7:37 mark.

By the 2:19 mark, Howard led by 11 (23-12) over the Knights. Both teams scored back to back buckets to finish the last two minutes of the first half strong. HU went into the lockerroom ahead 30-18.

Halftime notes: Smith led the Bison at the half with 12 points by shooting 5-7 from the field. Howard controlled the glass leading with 20 to FDU’s 12. The Knights forced HU into nine turnovers and scored eight points from their miscues. FDU shot 1-8 (12 percent) from behind the arc and 7-25 (28 percent) from the field.

To open up the last 20 minutes of play, Howard scored a three-pointer and a pair of free throws to spread the led to 19 by the 17:04 mark. Danielle Pankey gave FDU a spark as she knocked down a basket behind the arc decreasing HU’s lead to 16 in just 16 seconds. By the 13:50 mark, Howard pushed its lead to 21 points, 48-27.

Both teams swapped baskets until the 10:26 mark as FDU went on a 10-0 run to close the lead to just six points, 52-46, with just 7:36 left in the ball game. Howard found some energy after a three-point basket which ended the Knights run at the 6:09 mark. Howard held on to defeat Fairleigh Dickinson 66-56.

For the Bison, Brown led the game with a season-high of 19 points on shooting 8-11 from the field and 3-5 from behind the arc. Tamoria Holmes contributed 14 points, eight rebounds and four assist. Smith chipped in with a season-high of 12 points in 20 minutes of action. Nicole Deterville grabbed a game-high of nine boards to finish the match. FDU kept Saadia Doyle under double-digit scoring as she chipped in with seven points.

Mariyah Laury led FDU in scoring, finishing with 14 points in 33 minutes of play.

Howard will tip off the New Year at Mount St. Mary’s on Jan 3. The contest will begin at 7 p.m.

Former Redskins' Wife Succumbs to Cancer

2011-12-31T01:06:00.012-05:00

Keasha Draft, wife of former Redskin linebacker Chris Draft, loses battle with lung cancer just weeks after the couple wed.

Draft with wife Keasha Monique Rutledge Draft.
On Drafts' web site, The Christ Draft Family Foundation, where he provides a moving photo and video montage of his wife Keasha, Draft described his wife as "courageous".

"She courageously faced lung cancer, showing us all with every breath that we all need to hold onto life and love with both hands for as long as we can. Not just an inspiration, but a light, and a force that led the way with a beautiful, sweet smile and bright shining eyes that both belied the pure steel of her strength and determination."

Keasha passed two days after Christmas, one month after the couple wed November 27, 2011. She is expected to be laid to rest this Saturday.

Draft's Family Foundation, for which he earned a JB Award in both 2008 and 2009, stresses the importance of family, education, and Christ, and helps provide essential tools like financial literacy, health and wellness for overall family success.

Draft was added to the Redskins' roster in May of 2010.

Last year NFLPA director DeMaurice Smith spoke to DC UrbanSports on Draft being added to the Redskin roster saying, "Chris is not only a strong player on the field, but he's been one of our team representatives for a number of years. So, having a guy who is not only a great player, but a strong union man, to be in DC is fantastic. As a Redskin fan myself, it's good to see him here."

While in Washington Draft participated in an NFL Play 60 event encouraging youth to exercise for 60 minutes each day.

He was released from the Redskin roster in August of 2010.

The 2011 Sports Year That Was

2011-12-24T21:02:00.008-05:00

As 2012 approaches and 2011 comes to an end, we can sum up the 2010-2011 Washington DC sports season in a nut shell.

Fans were left dissatisfied. Players, time and again, used the over used adjective 'frustrated' to describe their feelings about why their team was in yet another precarious losing position.

No one had the right answer on how to win games (otherwise we'd be winning, right?) or why DC sports teams (professional or otherwise) consistently struggle to bring fans a winning season.

2011 saw DC sports teams with more losses than wins (save for the DC Divas, and the Washington Kastles)which is not a good note, for the year, on which to end.

WTOP radio gives its own summation of the year that was in Washington sports. A play on words, if you will, as to why hopeful fans watched their favorite teams keep coming up short.

Take a listen below.

We Like This!

2011-12-23T13:36:00.012-05:00

NFL's Braylon Edwards Gives Back

San Francisco running back (and no stranger to DC night life), Braylon Edwards makes good on a promise he made as a rookie in the NFL to give scholarships of $10,000 to 100 deserving Cleveland area students.

Edwards, then with the Cleveland Browns when he made the promise, promised the students that if they made at least a 2.5 GPA and performed 15 hours of community service, he would provide for their college education.

"My mom and I wanted to do something to give back", said Edwards (who thankfully got rid of that beard he'd been growing since we saw him last). "We're in a very blessed situation and she always preached the importance of giving back."

A total of 1,100 college bound students applied, but as promised only a chosen few would be selected to receive the $10,000 awards. This year, 79 students met the challenge in a community where outside influences could make concentrating on getting a college education less of a priority.

"The program turned out to be big success", touted Edwards. "Higher than what we even imaged."

Edwards' scholarship program has students at 23 US colleges, including John Hopkins and Harvard.

"For me to be one of the 100 that actually made it, I am definitely proud of myself", said David Ghoulston, 2015 class member of Bowling Green.

As are we, and of Edwards and all the other professional athletes who step up their game to make a positive influence in the lives of others.

We need more like ya!

Related
Leigh Bodden Gives Scholarships to DC Area Kids

Donate to help DC area homeless.

Amir Khan Sets Out To Appeal Capital Showdown Decision

2011-12-20T13:17:00.008-05:00

Speaking via conference call today Amir Khan, former former unified WBA (Super) & IBF light welterweight, officially announced his intent to appeal the decision of the December 8, 2011 fight between he and DC fighter, Lamont Peterson.

"Now I know why there hasn't been boxing in DC for 20 years", Khan said. "People are afraid to go there. People are going to be afraid to go there again after they see what happened to me they are going to be like we should stay away from boxing. And we don't what that to happen, all we wanted was a fair fight.

"I think the world knows, you all know, exactly who won the fight", Khan said speaking along with Asif Vali, business manager of Khan Promotions.

Khan, and his team, are contesting the referee stylings of Joe Cooper who took points away from Khan during the fight - for shoving Peterson.

"I want to give the referee the opportunity to review the tape", said Vali. "And he will see he made a mistake."

Vali questioned Cooper's work suggesting he was "not up to speed" calling his work "an absolute poor officiating job".

Not taking away from the skills and workmanship of Peterson, the two men praised Peterson saying he is a great fighter with tremendous heart and courage.

"My hat goes off to Peterson", said Vali. "He has the heart and courage never to give up" he said calling for Peterson to go to his camp to do what he claims is "the right thing."

Concluding, Khan said, "All I'm asking is for a rematch and fair chance back at the fight [some place] neutral to prove to the world of boxing that I clearly won that fight. That's all I want. Hopefully we can get this resolved."

Meanwhile, Lamont Peterson is set to receive the keys to the city this Thursday by DC mayor Vincent Gray.

Stay tuned as we can expect to hear a response from the Peterson camp on this developing story. This episode is sure to be one that will continue to be a point of contention for weeks to come.

Howard Defeats Wake Forest

2011-12-19T14:39:00.002-05:00

The Howard women’s basketball team upset Wake Forest 63-59 in Winston Salem, N.C. This marks the third time in Howard Women’s basketball history that the Lady Bison have defeated an Atlantic-Coast Conference opponent. Previously, HU women’s basketball knocked off Maryland and N.C. State under legendary MEAC Hall of Fame coach Sandra Tyler.

“Anytime you can make history and follow in the foot-steps of a hall of famer, feels great,” says fourth-year head coach Niki G. “It is great for the team and the program.”

With the victory, Howard (5-5, 2-0 MEAC) improves its win streak to four, while Wake Forest drops to 7-3 on the season.

Saadia Doyle finished with a season-best, 28 points – shooting 10-19 from the field, and 8-9 from the charity stripe. Tamoria Holmes tallied 14 points and seven boards. Cheyenne Curley-Payne chipped in with 10 points, five rebounds, and six steals.

In the second period, the Demon-Deacons threw the first blow pushing the lead to as many as 21 points (46-25) with just under 15 minutes to play. Ignited by a Doyle fast break layup, HU rattled off 15 straight points over a nine-plus span to cut the margin to 46-40 by the 6:13 mark. Sandra Garcia ended the Wake Forest drought with a basket. From there, both teams went toe-to-toe playing to a 52-52 knot by the end of regulation.

To tip-off the extra five-minutes, the Demon-Deacons earned a free-throw from the charity stripe. HU brushed passed Wake Forest and dominated the period by outscoring them 11-7 to a final of 63-59, however.

“Tamoria and Saadia played well,” commented Coach G. “Saadia came up with key back-to-back baskets which gave us the tie to go into overtime. Once overtime began I knew we had the momentum. We gave great defensive effort, especially by holding their leading scorer, Chelsea Douglas, to one point.”

The Deacs were led by Garcia, who finished with a team-high 18 points and 10 rebounds. Secily Ray contributed 10 points and nine boards.

Game notes: Wake Forest leading scorer Chelsea Douglas came into the game averaging 14 points, but was held to just one point on the night. HU scored 20 points from the Demon-Deacons’ 27 turnovers. The Lady Bison found much success from the free-throw line, shooting 21-23 (91 percent) for the game. Wake Forest dominated the glass, 53-38, and outscored Howard in the paint, 40-16.

The Lady Bison are back in action on Tues. Dec. 20 at home against Buffalo beginning at 7 p.m.

"Whatever, We Won The Game"

2011-12-19T14:00:00.012-05:00

"We did some good stuff too."

That's Rex Grossman in his post game interview after the Redskins pulled out a 23-10 win over the New York Giants Sunday.

After throwing two interceptions early in the game Grossman was his usual 'I can prove I can play QB in the NFL' self, telling reporters, "When things go bad early on, you have 55 minutes to fix the problem."

The Skins, seemingly fixed the problem, with all cylinders working - offense, defense, and special teams.

Despite Grossman's interceptions, the Redskins' defense picked off Manning and the Giants three times, once at the hands of Oshiomogho Atogwe and again by Josh Wilson.

Total possession for Grossman and the Skins' offense was 35 minutes, 'fixing the problem' with twenty to spare.

On his team's performance, Giants' running back Brandon Jacobs said, "I didn't see the passion in us today. We didn't play well. We disappointed each other and our fans, and we've just got to play better. I can't tell you why."

Grossman may have been the star of they day for the home team, finding both an open Santana Moss and Jabar Gaffney (on a third and 14) who each scored touch downs on the day.

"He's just a smart player", said Grossman about Gaffney finding ways to get open, while crediting Jim Haslett and the coaching staff on calling the plays.

Moss said the win was one of the team's better played games.

"The 'swag' that he [Grossman] carried on in the first part of the season, that's what we needed to go out there and do what we do. We needed a guy like that to take advantage of the opportunities that we have and when given, he does that", Moss said.

Grossman threw 15 of 24 for 185 yards.

The Redskins (5-9) aren't going to the playoffs, but Sunday's win definitely put a question mark around the Giants' (7-7) chances of making it there as well.

"I'm very disappointed in how we played today," giants coach Tom Coughlin said.

Sunday's win makes the second over the Giants this season, and their first against the Giants at New York since Week 15 of the 2007 season.

"What if we had played liked this every week?", pondered Skins' TB Barry Cofield.

"If we can build off this, and build into an intense offseason and build as a team, then next season can be a great year."

Out At Redskins Park

2011-12-16T10:53:00.008-05:00

Petitbon In. Landry? Not So Much.

The Redskins will induct former coach and safety Richie Petitbon into the team’s Ring of Fame. The ceremony is scheduled for Dec. 24, when the Redskins host the Minnesota Vikings at FedExField.

Petitbon’s legacy is closely intertwined with many of the legends associated with the Redskins in the latter part of the 20th century. Petitbon played for the Redskins from 1971-72, as the four-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro was brought in to help form the nucleus of the “Over the Hill Gang.” In 1978, he was named as the team’s defensive coordinator, a position he held until 1993, when he was named the 21st head coach in Redskins history.

He is one of only three Redskins to have participated in all five of the franchise’s Super Bowl appearances as either a player or coach, joining Torgy Torgeson and Pro Football Hall of Famer Charley Taylor.

"As a coach, Richie Petitbon put up remarkable numbers; incredible, historic numbers. Sixty-one turnovers in 1983, and he was just an amazing, amazing coach. Looking at the history of the franchise, honoring coaches is as important as honoring great players", said franchise owner Daniel Snyder.

Starting as a second-round draft choice by the Chicago Bears in 1959, Petitbon quickly made the conversion from college quarterback to pro safety to earn a spot in the secondary. His place in Chicago history was cemented in the 1963 championship game, when his late fourth quarter inception in the end zone ensured a title for the Bears. As a member of the Chicago Bears, Petitbon played under two men close to the origins of the game in Clark Shaughnessy and George Halas. Then he finished his career under George Allen as a member of the Rams and Redskins. As an assistant, he spent most of his career under another Hall of Famer in Redskins legend Joe Gibbs.

Petibon joins the ranks of Brian Mitchell in the Redskins Ring of Fame.
As defensive coordinator in Washington since 1978, the Redskins were annually ranked among the top defenses in the NFL. During the Redskins’ 1991 Super Bowl season, the defense limited opponents to 224 points (second lowest in the NFL) while holding opponents to 14 points or less 10 times. In 1992, the Skins defense finished seventh overall despite numerous injuries that left only four players starting every game. However, the most impressive feat by a Petitbon coached defense may have come in 1983 when the Skins forced 61 turnovers to finish with a +43 ratio.

"Let me just say that this is really a great honor for me, a very surprising honor, so to speak", said Petitbon. "I just want to thank everyone in the Redskins organization, past and present, obviously, the players that I had the privilege of coaching for so many years. I'd like to thank the defensive staff that was with me the whole time, Larry Peccatiello, 'Torgy' Torgenson, Emmitt Thomas, and Bobby DePaul."

The unpredictable, mix-and-match game plans devised by Petitbon and his defensive staff often created havoc with offenses and their halftime adjustments paved the way for many Redskins wins. The most notable was when he and assistant head coach Larry Peccatiello inserted a blitz on the bus taking the team to Super Bowl XXVI. Utilized on the first play of the second half, the blitz led to a Kurt Gouveia interception to set up a Redskins touchdown.

He began his career as an assistant at Houston, where he spent four years until coming to Washington as defensive coordinator under Jack Pardee. When Gibbs arrived in 1981, Petitbon was the only assistant retained, beginning a partnership that would take the Redskins to three Super Bowl titles and eight playoff appearances in 12 years.

Of his time in Washington, Petibon reflected, "Well, I think the Super Bowls. The reason that you play this game is to win it all, and we had the good fortune to get there four time and win it three. And I think if I had to pick out one moment, it was after we won the first one against Miami in Los Angeles. And the first thing that came to my mind was, I said, 'I'll never get fired again. I can always find a job after that.' And that was a great moment for me. As a defensive coordinator, I never thought I'd be fired."

When he concluded his playing career, Petitbon had a total of 48 interceptions. He played on only two teams that had a losing record.

Petibon joins Brian Mitchell (2009 Ring of Fame honoree), and a host of other memorable Redskins players who fought tooth and nail to give the fans a memorable fan experience, and a Super Bowl to the Nation's Capital.

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"Obviously Something Is Seriously Wrong": Landry Placed on Injured Reserved:

Redskin safety LaRon Landry has been placed on IR, pretty much ending his season, due to an Achillies injury.

Safety LaRon Landry placed on Injured Reserve. Photo/CD Brown.
"I talked to LaRon earlier today and he felt that it was quite sore", said head coach Mike Shanahan. "He’s been trying to push it, trying to get back the last couple of weeks and thought it was in his best interest to go on IR. Usually what’s in a player’s best interest is usually what’s in our best interest, so we’re going to put him on IR and hopefully he can get that thing well.”

Landry has been active in rehab, but has been aggravated by the soreness. Although not torn, the severity of the injury isn't quite known at this time forcing Landry and the coaching staff to conclude that "something is obviously wrong".

"He has not been healthy. He’s been trying to get out there. He’s been working extremely hard in rehab. He just hasn’t been able to go.

The potential Defensive Player of the Year, (per Shanahan) will be replaced at safety by DeJon Gomes, with Reed Doughtry at the free safety position.

Moving forward, for Landry and team, coach Shanahan sums it up like this: "I think it’s best for all concerned that he get that operated on or at least go with the experts and get three or four opinions and make this decision, because he’s got to get well."

With just three games remaining this season, and no hopes for the playoffs, the Skins must again make moves that hopefully will give them the best chance of winning, and that gives fans something to hope for.

The Skins face the New York Giants this Sunday in their house. The final two season games include a Christmas Eve home game against Minnesota, and a New Year's Day game with the Eages in Philadelphia.

Capital Showdown Pics, and More!

2011-12-12T16:04:00.017-05:00

Our pictures from this past weekend's Capital Showdown are online here!

Amir Khan v Lamont Peterson. Peterson won via split decision.
Trainer Barry Hunter weighs in on the fight!
The Peterson Brothers' trainer, Barry Hunter, talked with Luke Thomas of 1067 The Fan and had some interesting things to say.

Listen as he talks fight options, winning in DC, his guys Lamont and Anthony Peterson, and his game plan for fighting Britain's own, Amir Khan.

DC native, turned Hollywood actor, supports Lamont Peterson!
Talented actor, and DC native, Lamman Rucker gave us his thoughts on the Peterson win.

"It was a good fight", Rucker told us.

On Lamont Peterson's win Rucker tells us, "He's a young guy, new talent, new face. But I'm glad he sustained and had the stamina to make it twelve rounds. I thought he performed very well and deserved the win."

**Update** Khan set to appeal fight ruling. Click here!

Mitchell Appeal:Seen on the Internet
The world is also talking about the Seth Mitchell v Timur Ibragimov fight.

We couldn't help but post this remark found on a boxing forum about the Mitchell/Ibragimov fight last Saturday night. It really put in perspective Mitchell's humble beginnings.

Seth Mitchell v Timur Ibragimov. It's like he's saying, Don't hit me no more!

Re: Thoughts on Seth Mitchell

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Here's a thought. Seth Mitchell blew his knee out playing football. Career-ending knee injury. Completely shot knee.

He was age 25 watching the contender and saw Tom Zbikowski fighting on tv and said "hey, I can do that".

25, never boxed before, shot knees.

He just knocked out (brutally, I might add) Timur Ibragimov in two rounds, a former Olympian, who just went life and death with the guy who is Wlad's next opponent.

The man is 29 and has been boxing for 4 years with shot knees.

Update
Boxing great Gerry Cooney gives his take on Mitchell. Click here.

--

Ironic. Wouldn't You Say?
Now, that's an interesting sentiment considering here we have Donovan McNabb, a (dare we say) former football star with a career hanging in the balance, watching another former football star who made a career change when his own football career hung in the balance.

Former Redskin and Minnesota Viking quarterback, Donovan McNabb attends Capital Showdown.

--
More Boxing News
February 11, 2012 fight card adds Tori Nelson!

Tori Nelson to face Vashon Living for WIBA Title, Todd Wilson to battle Fernando Basora on Feb. 11 Jimmy Lange Boxing Card.

A pair of popular Northern Virginia boxers, middleweight Tori “Sho Nuff” Nelson (Ashburn) and junior welterweight Todd “White Lightning” Wilson (Fairfax), will put their undefeated records on the line as opponents have been announced for their bouts on the Jimmy Lange Boxing card set for Saturday, February 11, 2012 at the Patriot Center.

Nelson (5-0-1), a single mom with three jobs (school bus driver and cafeteria worker at Loudoun County’s Broad Run High School and IHOP waitress) outside of the ring, will challenge Vashon “Lady V” Living (5-2, 1 KO) of Houston, Texas for the vacant Women’s International Boxing Association (WIBA) middleweight championship in a 10-round contest. This past summer in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, Nelson won the World Boxing Council’s (WBC) middleweight championship belt by upsetting Lorissa Rivas. She beat Michelle Garland in an action-packed contest in her Patriot Center debut last September.

Living is battle-tested in championship fights having lost a 10-round decision to Christiana Hammer for the World Boxing Organization (WBO) and World Boxing Federation (WBF) middleweight titles in October 2011. An experienced amateur competitor, she had won five in a row prior to the world title fight.

Wilson (11-0, 3 KOs), a former collegiate boxing champion and all-American at Virginia Military Institute, will face Fernando “El Latigo” Basora (8-7-1, 6 KOs) of the Bronx, N.Y. in a six-rounder. The Fairfax fighter outworked former world champion Eric “Mighty Mouse” Aiken en route to earning his 11th victory and biggest test to date last September at the Patriot Center. Since emerging on the Beltway boxing scene, the business development specialist at Booz Allen Hamilton has continued to draw supporters while gaining ring experience.

Nicknamed ‘The Whip’, the Puerto Rican-born Basora gave Ryan Belasco all he could handle in a loss this past August in Dover, Del. Only three of his 16 fights have gone the distance, so fans should expect a high-energy, fast-paced affair when he visits Wilson’s home turf in February.

About the Jimmy Lange boxing card
World Boxing Union (WBU) champion Jimmy Lange will defend his junior middleweight title against an opponent to be determined in the Main Event. Officials plan to announce the card’s third world title bout later this week.

Tickets for the event can be purchased here. Doors will open at 6:00 pm, with the first fight scheduled to begin at 7:00 pm. All bouts are subject to change.

**Notice** The Zain “Tiger” Shah vs. Tony “Mo Better” Jeter bout previously announced has fallen out.

King Pete Reigns Supreme!

2011-12-11T14:29:00.015-05:00

Beats Khan in Controversial Win!

The Nation's Capital, with eight local fighters competing in last night's Capital Showdown boxing exhibition, fared quite well.

Lamont Peterson wins over Britain's Amir Khan. Photo/CD Brown.
Thomas Williams of Fort Washington, MD wasted no time defeating Reynaldo Rodriguez (6-3-1) in just fifty-four seconds of the second round. Rodriguez was knocked down several times by Williams in the first round and never really recovered, causing the referee to end the fight. After the win over Rodriguez, Williams improves to 6-0.

Williams is the son of Thomas Williams, Sr., a local fighter from the 1990s.

In the heavyweight division, Seth 'Mayhem' Mitchell (24-0-1/ 17 KOs)- continued to show why he deserves the title 'Heavyweight Champion of the World' as he dominated his opponent Timur Ibragimov. The fight was ended in the second round. That was the first time Ibragimov has had his fight stopped. He now falls to 30-3- 1/16 KOs.

"I'm on cloud nine right now", Mitchell said on his win. "Timur was never stopped – I wanted to be the first to stop him", Mitchell said.

"This is the level I want to be on. I plan to stay on this level." Humble and hungry, Mitchell claims he can "mix in with any heavyweight out there".

Wanting a possible match in March, 2012 Mitchell said he wants to stay active, fighting at least three times a year although he did say he is not quite ready for Ukraines' Wladimir Klitschko.

Anthony Peterson taking on Daniel Attah. Photo/CD Brown.
Anthony Peterson (31-1, 20 KOs) scored a 80-70 unanimous decision over Washington's Daniel Attah (26-9-1), starting the night off right for his brother Lamont Peterson who defeated, amid controversy, Britain's Amir Khan in a 12 round WBA Super Lightweight and IBJ Junior Welterweight exhibition.

Khan was deducted two points for shoving Peterson.

Golden Boy Promotion's Oscar de la Hoya made it a point, during the post fight press conference, to let it be known that had the judge took only one point it would have been a draw. If he took two points that would mean Peterson would win the fight."

“One point (taken in round seven), we could deal with”, said De La Hoya, promoter of the contest. "But the second point (which came in the 12th round), people start to wonder what’s going on here.”

The judges seemed to score in favor of Peterson; at least two of the three.

Judges George Hill and Valerie Dorsett scored the fight essentially the same, round-by-round with Peterson scoring 17, 27, 37, 46, 55, 65, 75, 84, 94, 104, 113, and scoring Khan 20, 29, 38, 48, 58, 66, 75, 85, 94, 103, 112. Judge Nelson Vasquez scored the fight in Khan's favor: 20, 29, 39, 49, 59, 67, 76, 86, 96, 106, 115. Vasquez scored Peterson 17, 27, 36, 45, 54, 64, 74, 83, 92, 101, 110.

Said Khan on his loss, "I thought the ref on his side. You are two points down before the fight starts", Khan said on fighting on Peterson's turf.

There was heavy Pakistani opposition to the ruling, almost leading to a few fights, with Khan's promoter yelling at a crowd member and jumping off the side of the boxing ring.

Many of Khan's fans shouted expletives at DC fans.

A Possible Rematch?
The two fighters have vowed a rematch, with speculation of either a Las Vegas or UK venue.

"He won, in DC. Let's have him come to the UK to see if he has the same balls", said Khan. "We all know who won the fight", Khan said, vowing to "come back stronger" the next time.

Peterson, not giving insight into questions about the point calling of referee Joe Cooper, said after the fight, "I'm a fighter, not a referee. Talk to me in a week and I can give you a better answer."

Peterson and Khan bought big-time boxing to Washington on a national level, amidst a crowd of over 8,000 at Washington's Convention Center, and gave hope and promise for boxing events of this scale in the future.

For now, Peterson will relish the memory of the evening.

"I'm proud of my performance", said Peterson. "I'm proud of DC tonight", he said of the home crowd chanting for him DC!, DC!

"I appreciate that", Peterson said.

It's been rough going and a long, hard road for both Lamont Peterson and his brother Anthony, who fight homelessness as young boys before trainer, Barry Hunter took the two boys under his wing.

"Things are always rough for me. I never get anything easy. I was prepared for a backyard fight. If it was left to me I’d fight him (Khan) tomorrow.

In other bouts on the evening, Ramesis Gil takes on Jamie Kavanagh. Photo/Aaron Thornton for DC UrbanSports.
Seen Around The Ring

Several high profile fans came out in support of the fight.

The list is seemingly endless and includes actor Lamman Rucker, former Washington Redskin quarterback Donovan McNabb, and former boxers Riddick Bowe and William Joppy (who, at 41, decided to retire last year). Keith Holmes, Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson made a showing, as did Sharmba Mitchell.

Several DC officials were present: Councilwoman Yvette Johnson, council member Kwame Brown, and DC Mayor Vincent Gray.

We also were told that Alexander Ovechkin was in the house.

Pool Report: 2011 Army-Navy Game

2011-12-10T15:19:00.006-05:00

'It's a Great Atmosphere Here'

Here's a very descriptive take on the sites and sounds at today's Army-Navy game at FedEx Field from White House pool reporter, Anna Fields, US Political Correspondent for the Financial Times.

President Obama facilitating the traditional coin toss.

Anna writes:

An amazing atmosphere here on the field. The Army mule mascot is having his photo taken with fans the stadium is full of Navy and Army personnel in uniform, a Navy choir just sang the national anthem, to huge cheers and canon fire.

President Obama, looking very presidential, walks the field at the 2011 Army-Navy football game.
The president then came out onto the field and shook hands while Thunderstruck by AC/DC blared. We could also see VP Biden, defence secretary Leon Panetta, chairman of the joint chiefs Martin Dempsey, among others. Potus an co came out into the middle of the field with two burly looking guys with black face paint on (here your pooler would like to apologise in advance for her lack of football knowledge). Army won the coin toss. I couldn't see it, just here the reaction on the Army side.

It's a great atmosphere here. We just had four F-18s fly over in formation, followed by four Apaches. Now holding between Army players on exercycles and cheerleaders with white bows in their hair and gold and black pom-poms while the president (POTUS) does a live interview with CBS.

--

**Update**

Navy wins over Army 27-21! Their tenth straight victory.

About the game.
The Army-Navy Game, presented by USAA, is a prominent rivalry in college football each year. This year’s game is being held, for the first time in the game’s 112-year history, in the DC area.

Did you get your cupcake?
As part of their ongoing support of the military, the sisters of Georgetown Cupcake and DC Cupcakes will be selling limited edition Army and Navy cupcakes during the week leading up to game day.

Capital Showdown In Just One More Day!

2011-12-09T15:46:00.017-05:00

The final press conference for the much anticipated Capital Showdown fight between Britain's fighter, Amir Khan and Washington, DC native Lamont Peterson, was held yesterday at the DC Convention Center, the site of the HBO televised event.

Lamont Peterson (r) poses with Amir Khan. Photo /CD Brown. More photos here.
"We know how good Lamont is. He's strong. He's only lost one fight in his whole career. It's going to be a tough night and you have a lot of support here, but I think we will have a lot more support [than people think]", said Khan who was presented with a birthday cake at the event in celebration of his 25th birthday yesterday.

Khan, who is Pakistani, may feel like he has the weight of both worlds (Britain and Pakistan) on his shoulders right now. It will be his chance to show the world a different side of a country than what is seen on TV.

"This will put Pakistan on the map", said a member of the Pakistani media. "All we're known for is being terrorist."

The fighters have been training for the last two months, if not longer, and are ready to do battle.

Anthony Peterson, also a fighter on the card and brother to the evening's main event fighter, Lamont Peterson, advises the audience on Saturday night "not to blink".

Anthony, currently ranked #1 in the lightweight division by the WBO, last fought fifteen months ago.

Telling the audience he's tired of talking got straight to the point saying, "The only thing I can say is keep your eyes open and don't blink, because I got a lot of stuff to get off my chest on Saturday."

His brother Lamont, expected to win the bout for hometown bragging rights in the Main Event said, "I've been talking for two months now. I'm tired of talking. I'm ready to fight", said Lamont Peterson, the #1 Rated IBF Super Lightweight contender.

Seth Mitchell weighing in at Seth Mitchell 240. Timor Ibragimov weighed in at 221. More weigh-in photos here.
Heavyweight contender, Seth Mitchell, the co-Main event on the card, echoed that sentiment.

"I'm excited about the fight and I'm anxious. I'm tired of training."

Mitchell will war with Timur Ibragimov, who hails from Moscow, for heavyweight bragging rights.

Of Ibragimov Mitchell said, "I respect my opponent a lot, but come December 10, I'm pretty sure he won't respect me and I won't respect him either."

The fight will help solidify heavyweight boxing at time when the division seems to be lacking good opponents and matches.

"The state of heavyweight boxing right now is dead", said the legendary Pepe Correa, former trainer to Sugar Ray Leonard, Roberto Durán, and Lennox Lewis.

"However, if Mitchell does well Saturday night, this could put heavyweight boxing back on the map", Correa told us.

All fighters have a lot at stake: reputation, credibility, audience, a larger pay day, and and even larger fan base.

Said Mitchell, "I'm ready. I feel that it's my time."

See final press conference pics here.

--

In other area boxing related news.

Joseph Robert, founder of Fight For Children, has passed.

Joe Robert (seated center) at the November, 2011 Fight For Children gala.
Robert founded the annual Fight Night charity boxing event in 1990. The annual event brings celebrity-like business, sports and government icons together for an evening to raise money for disadvantage children in the DC region.

Robert made his last appearance at November's Fight Night were he announced he would pledge $1 million of his own money to continue the organization’s work. (Our coverage "here).

--

More Fight News

We also learned that tickets for the February 11, 2011 Jimmy Lange boxing event at the Patriot Center has been discounted 25%, thru Christmas Eve on ticket amounts of $75, $125, $200, $300 and $500 tickets (offer does not apply to $35 and $50 tickets) at 25% off when buying in person at the Patriot Center Box Office or going online to Ticketmaster’s web site.

The February 11 event will feature three world title fights, headlined by Lange’s World Boxing Union (WBU) junior middleweight title defense and top local female boxer, Tori Nelson, fighting for the World International Boxing Association (WIBA) middleweight championship. An exciting co-main event for a world title will also be added to the lineup with an announcement forthcoming. The card will also feature rising local junior welterweight Todd “White Lightning” Wilson. The previously announced Zain “Tiger” Shah vs. Tony “No Better” Jeter bout has fallen out. All bouts are subject to change.

--

Fighter Weights For Capital Showdown, with undercard performers.

Amir Khan 139 vs. Lamont Peterson 140

Seth Mitchell 240 1/2 vs. Timor Ibragimov 221

Anthony Peterson 137 vs. Daniel Attah 136

Fernando Guerrero 162 vs. Robert Kliewer 161

Jamie Kavanaugh 135 vs. Ramsies Gil 135

Thomas Williams, Jr. 174 vs. Reynaldo Rodriguez 171

Dusty Harrison 144 vs. Terrell Davis 146

Terron Grant 134 vs. Deshawn Autry 134

Joshua Davis 134 vs. Chris Russell 134

(H/T to BATB).

More fighter info here.

Wizards Announce Their (Shortened) 2011-2012 Schedule

2011-12-06T22:00:00.007-05:00

Is JaVale McGee the new franchise face of the Washington Wizards?

Click here to view full Wizards'schedule.

The Washington Wizards have two preseason games with Philadelphia on December 16th, and again on December 20th before beginning the regular season at home against New Jersey on December 26th.

The regular NBA season begins Christmas Day, 2011.

Keep your TVs tuned to NBA TV to see Wizards games. They are not scheduled to be picked up by any of the regular NBA networks (i.e. TNT, and the like) this season.

Related
A note from the Commish

Dear Fans,
On behalf of the entire NBA family, I want to thank you for your patience and support over the past several months. The new collective bargaining agreement is designed to provide more competitive balance for our league, reward strong performances by our players, and strengthen our game by improving its economics. We believe this agreement will benefit our teams, players, and most importantly, fans by making the NBA stronger.

In the days and weeks ahead, all of us hope you will enjoy the run-up to the start of the season: free agency, training camp, and preseason games. Each NBA team will be hosting special events for fans, so be sure to check your favorite team's website, Facebook page, or Twitter feed for details. This season we look forward to bringing you more of everything you love about NBA basketball: incredible competition, tremendous excitement, and unending hard work and dedication by the world's best athletes.

Thank you for being an NBA fan. I hope you enjoy the season, which promises to be a most exciting one.

Sincerely,

David J. Stern
NBA Commissioner
--

More

We have an interesting article forthcoming with insight from a former NBA player, and others involved in professional sports, who share their thoughts on the NBA lockout, and more!

Stay tuned!

Washington Redskins' Season of Sharing

2011-12-06T15:37:00.009-05:00

The Redskins served up some holiday cheer today at Macy’s on G Street in downtown Washington, DC, handing out over 300 coats and warm gloves to area students.

In addition to receiving coats and gloves, the students also received goody bags filled with a toy and a Redskin activity book.

Ten year-old Elijah called the event “good”. When asked what was in his bag, he replied, “I don’t know yet. I’m going to save it.”

Is that a wait ‘til I you get home save it, we asked. Or a wait until Christmas, save it?

“Wait until we get home save it” he replied.

Elijah was one of several students from Burrville Elementary School in NE, DC chosen. His classmate Alexis, also ten years-old, joined in on the fun.

While the students took delight in seeing how tall or big the players are in real life, Alexis commented that she wanted to see how the player’s styles were.

“It was nice of the guys to style us with coats, however I wanted to see what their style was like, too”, she said of the players, many who were dressed in their Redskin jerseys and sweat pants.

Alexis said she was also impressed with how organized the event was.

As was Burrville principal, Tui Roper.

“It was better than I expected”, said Roper on the event. “I thought the players were just going to come in say “Hi”, and take pictures with the students. But they stayed, helped the kids get fitted for coats and talked to them”, she said.

We caught up with the Redskins' Josh Wilson as he was fitting a coat on one of the students.

"It’s good to see the kids getting coats", he said.

Redskin TE Logan Paulsen, with his hair combed back into a short ponytail opting to wear shorts instead, looked more like a Russian hockey or soccer player than an American football player today. “I get that a lot”, he commented. Paulsen said of the event, “It’s great. The kids are getting coats and gloves, so it’s great.”

Sean Locklear, Donte Stallworth, and Brandon Banks also helped the students get fitted for coats.

The Macy’s store event, Covered for the Holidays, is just one of several ‘Season of Sharing’ holiday events planned by the Washington Redskins and the Redskins’ Charitable Foundation.

This Sunday the Redskins will pair up with the Marine Corp for the annual Touchdown for Tots national toy drive benefiting the Toys for Tots Foundation. Later in the month the Redskin locker room will be transformed into Santa’s toy shop for area kids to receive a holiday toy.

In addition, the wife if Dan Snyder, Tanya Snyder and Women of Washington (WOW) breast cancer survivors will host youth for a day of shopping at the Redskins Hall of Fame store. Each youth in attendance will receive a $150 gift card to purchased reduced Redskin items at the store.

For more info on these and other events visit www.washingtonredskins.com.

--
Related

TE Fred Davis was also scheduled to join his teammates today for the coat drive. Due to his current circumstance he did not participate.

Per a statement by "an NFL official":

Fred Davis and Trent Williams of the Washington Redskins have been suspended without pay for the team’s next four games for violating the NFL Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse.

Their suspensions begin immediately. They will be eligible to return to the Redskins’ active roster on Monday, January 2 following the team’s January 1 game against the Philadelphia Eagles.

What we noticed
Both Williams and Davis' names have been taken off the Redskins roster. See here.

Odd that on the day with an event with children, the kids learn at the same time that you can be a good athlete and help out in the community, yet have the things you love taken away from you by the wrong choices you make.

They're Here: Trainer Freddie Roach, and his fighter, Amir Khan

2011-12-05T16:11:00.009-05:00

British boxer Amir Khan arrived in DC with trainer Freddie Roach for a series of Fight Week events leading up to this Saturday's Capital Showdown, a title fight featuring Khan vs Lamont Peterson, and Seth 'Mayhem' Mitchell vs Timur Ibragimov.

Today, the team posed for pictures in front of the White House and the US Capitol.

Amir Khan poses with trainer Freddie Roach in front of the White House and the US Capitol.
The week of events continues tomorrow with a Lamont Peterson, Amir Khan, Seth Mitchell, Timur Ibragimov and Anthony Peterson workout for media and youth. An official welcome will occur with DC Mayor Vincent Gray later in the week, culminating with a presser and official weigh-in.

The weigh-in to be held Friday at the Carnegie Library , 801 K St. NW at Mt. Vernon Square is open to the public, at 2:00 pm. Golden Boy Promotions President Oscar De La Hoya and legendary current Light Heavyweight World Champion Bernard Hopkins are scheduled to attend.

The "Capital Showdown: Khan vs. Peterson," is a 12-round Unified Super Lightweight World Title Fight for Khan's WBA World Super Championship and IBF World Championship taking place on Saturday, Dec. 10 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Khan Promotions and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, DeWalt Tools, AT&T and MicroTech.

Also featured will be a 10-round heavyweight battle between Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell and Timur Ibragimov. The fights will be telecast in the United States on HBO World Championship Boxing at 9:45 p.m. ET/6:45 p.m. PT and on Sky Sports in the United Kingdom.

TICKETS
The Walter E. Washington Convention Center Box Office will be open Thursday through Saturday for ticket purchases and will call pick-up. Additionally, tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com, or by calling (800) 745-3000.

Woods Wins!

2011-12-04T20:37:00.012-05:00

References LL Cool J's 'Momma Said Knock You Out' On Twitter

Good to see him smiling again. Woods wins Chevron World Challenge. Getty photo.
Do call it a comeback. Kinda.

Tiger Woods wins his first tournament in two years, edging out Zach Johnson, (and 17 other contenders) in this weekend's Chevron World Challenge.

"It feels great!", Woods said.

Woods hit a tee shot on the sixth hole during the final round of the Challenge.

Tiger's earnings over the three day event? $1,200,000.

Not bad.

Putting his past behind him, and feeling pretty good about the win (and the winnings), Woods on his Twitter page, tweeted, "Who's Up For Some LL Cool J?", with a link to L's 'Mama Said Knock You Out' video.

Lyrics to the song are:

Don't call it a comeback
I been here for years
Rockin' my peers
Puttin' suckers in fear
Makin' the tears rain down like a monsoon
Listen to the bass go boom
Explosion, overpowerin'
Over the competition, I'm towerin'

Zach Johnson, the former Master champion who gave Woods a run for his money, called his loss "Disappointing", but said he was pleased with the way he handled himself.

Tiger has won the Chevron World Challenge five times, improving his ranking to #21 in the world.

Watch Tiger's win below.

Obama Classic Canceled. Cancelled.

2011-12-04T14:57:00.006-05:00

Spelled either way, the anticipated Obama Basketball Classic is no more.

At least not in December, not on December 12th, since the return of the NBA on Christmas Day.

I wonder which event the players were looking forward to participating in more? (Regular NBA season. President Obama).

Regardless, Vince Carter, Barron Davis and Chris Paul explain the cancellation (or rather, postponement). Read below.

Dear Basketball Fans --

The good news is that basketball is coming back this month.

Unfortunately, that means the Obama Classic is being postponed.

Don't worry: Any tickets you've purchased will still be honored at the rescheduled event. It's on the calendar for Summer 2012.

And we can tell you it's going to be a game you won't want to miss. We've personally talked to more than a dozen players and legends who are eager to get out there and have some fun in support of President Obama.

We're sorry to delay the event, but it's safe to say this game will be worth waiting for. It's going to be a great time.

If you have any questions, please contact the campaign by e-mail or call 312-698-3670.

We'll see you out there. Until then, thanks for your support.

Vince Carter, Baron Davis, and Chris Paul

Washington Kastles 2011 Season Rewind!

2011-12-02T16:07:00.002-05:00

Video: A look back on the 2011 Washington Kastles tennis season.

Amir Khan Speaks Via Conference Call

2011-12-02T12:11:00.024-05:00

Amir Khan and trainer Freddie Roach speak to the media.

Events for the December 10, 2011 match ups between DC boxer Lamont Peterson and Britain's Pakistani fighter, Amir Khan, along with DC area's own Seth 'Mayhem' Mitchell vs Timur Ibragimov have been taking place all over the city these last few months in anticipation of this being one of the most watched televised and talked about boxing events Washington, DC has seen probably since Mike Tyson lost his last fight to Kevin McBride in 2005 at Verizon Center. (Feel free to advise otherwise).

Amir Khan (left) and Lamont Peterson set to do battle December 10 in Capital Showdown event. Photo CD Brown.
From the boxers making appearances at this year's Fight For Children Fight Night gala, to holding a media workout session in a DC area gym, to delivering Thanksgiving dinners in the community, to attending the upcoming Michigan State football game this weekend, the media blitz is on for this affair.

Lamont Peterson, #1 Rated IBF boxer, has a record of 29 and 1 with 15 knockouts.

Amir Khan is the current Unified Super Lightweight World Champion and currently holds the WBA Super World Championship and IBF Championship.

One night in December, 2011 will determine the fates of both boxers.

This week a conference call with Amir Khan and his trainer Freddie Roach took place where a few interesting comments were made by all parties.

Here are a few excerpts.

Khan Trainer, Freddie Roach

Amir's had a great training camp [in LA] and been looking forward to this fight with Peterson. We know that Peterson is a very, very strong opponent and know Amir is 100 percent ready, and I can't wait to get this going.

On Khan emulating Peterson's style
We're just well prepared for whatever he brings. I've had boxers and bangers both. I mean we're here. If he wants to bang with us, we're ready for that. If he wants to try to box with us, we're ready for that. We're studying tapes of him, and we see where he likes to be and so forth. We're not going to put ourselves in those positions. Amir is just going to be too fast for him in my book.

On Khan's mental approach
Well, you know Amir, he's travelled and we've been everywhere in training camps and fights and so forth. So Amir adapts well to wherever it is. We're in for Lamont Peterson; D.C. is going to be a great place. I've fought in D.C. myself once before and had a good fight with Darryl Tyson, and I look forward to visiting D.C. again and being victorious.

Boxer, Amir Khan

On gaining support from the Pakistani community in our area.
It's just the way I am. I'm not afraid to fight away from home. We could have chosen to fight in England, Manchester, or even fight in Los Angeles or Vegas again away from Lamont's hometown and his home state. But we thought, "We'll take the fight to him and we'll face someone who's in the top five in the world, he's in the top ten and he's ranked number one in the IBF. So we'll fight him and once we beat him then there are no excuses."

Also it's going to build my fan base. I've always wanted to fight in the capital and I've always wanted to fight in different states to build my status in way of a professional. I want people to know who Amir Khan is and they want to see me-it's different watching on T.V. than watching live performances. And I want to give everyone the chance to see me fight live, and this is the best way of doing it, is to travel and fight away from where you feel comfortable fighting.

I mean, that's one thing about me. All my life I've been fighting away from home. I train away from home and I've kind of got used to it. I win fans over and that's what I love doing. I mean the best fight in the world I've done-you look at Manny Pacquaio, he lives in the Philippines but he chooses to come to America and train and also fight away from and fight in different states. I want to do the same thing that he is doing.

On coming to Peterson's town to fight him instead of the other way around.

It's just the way I am. I'm not afraid to fight away from home. We could have chosen to fight in England, Manchester, or even fight in Los Angeles or Vegas again away from Lamont's hometown and his home state. But we thought, "We'll take the fight to him and we'll face someone who's in the top five in the world, he's in the top ten and he's ranked number one in the IBF. So we'll fight him and once we beat him then there are no excuses."

Also it's going to build my fan base. I've always wanted to fight in the capital and I've always wanted to fight in different states to build my status in way of a professional. I want people to know who Amir Khan is and they want to see me-it's different watching on T.V. than watching live performances. And I want to give everyone the chance to see me fight live, and this is the best way of doing it, is to travel and fight away from where you feel comfortable fighting.

I mean, that's one thing about me. All my life I've been fighting away from home. I train away from home and I've kind of got used to it. I win fans over and that's what I love doing. I mean the best fight in the world I've done-you look at Manny Pacquaio, he lives in the Philippines but he chooses to come to America and train and also fight away from and fight in different states. I want to do the same thing that he is doing.

On getting a decision if the fight goes the full ten rounds
We've trained for that long distance. If we see him hurt, we're going to go for the finish. If it does go the distance, I'm sure we're going to win the fight so convincingly that we're going to be way ahead. There's only going to be one winner in the fight, which is going to be me.

On his run in with Timothy Bradley last May
I saw him after his win and he was walking towards me. I mean, he wouldn't look at me. He knew I was there and I said something to him, something like you ought to grow some balls and get in a fight against me and he just didn't look at me again. ... But I just wanted to make him realize and make him know that I'm not scared, and I'm the one who wants to fight. And he needs to man up and take the fight.

On concerns about Peterson's fight style
We are aware of everything he does. We know exactly how he likes to fight and stuff. He can start worrying about; I think he said something like Amir can't take a shot. He's been down so many times off small punches; guys who don't really punch hard. I think with my power and speed, I don't think he can cope with that. But we're not worrying about him. We know exactly what to do. We've been training very hard for this fight and I always feel like a challenger. My job is to go into the fight and just win this fight and that's what I've been doing. I don't care what he brings to the table; we'll have answers for everything.

On if Peterson has enough power to hurt him
I think if he can attack an opponent with the right shot, right on the button, in the right place, then you're going to put them down. That's boxing for you. But we're a lot smarter on my defenses; a lot better than it was before and to those he can bring what he wants to the table. We'll be ready for everything he has.

On fighting more than once or twice a year
First of all, when you fight in your hometown it's going to give you a bolt anyway. It's going to make you go out there try harder. Secondly, I think it's good for me to stay busy; I mean this is my third fight this year. I've been in the gym a lot. I've been fighting. I've been active, so that's going to help me. I'm also younger, so I can kind of cope with fighting three times a year.

But Lamont, I think, one fight a year is a little bit less. But it's one of them things. Last year, I only fought twice a year. So it will be Lamont's second fight this year. At the end of the day, we know he's going to be prepared for it because he knows I'm up to the fight for him. He's not going to take any chances. He's going to go into this fight and that's what's motivating me because I know I'm fighting him in his hometown is only going to make him fight harder and train harder.

It's motivating me and making me train harder in the gym because I know that he's going to want to win this fight in front of his home crowd. I think this is the time where we've got a big, big super fight in front of us, so I can't afford to lose and get beat and to keep on winning-not only winning, but looking good in the fight as well and doing things right. For me this is a big fight. It's going to take me from being a good fighter to being a superstar. So hopefully, Lamont Peterson will make me one of the best fighters in the world.

On his plans to move up a weight class, drug testing, and possibly fighting Floyd Mayweather May 5
One thing about me, I get drug tested with the British Board testers randomly. They can come to my house anytime. They can pop into the gym anytime. When they last come, they were at the gym twice unexpectedly. So, we have to give them a test.

If that fight did come off, I'm happy to give them a test because I'm a clean fighter. That's one thing about me because I went to Olympic Games; I've kind of experienced it myself. But I'm sure if that fight happened, we need a little bit more time to think about it instead of rushing into something so big.

First of all, we've got Lamont Peterson to look ahead of and get Lamont Peterson out of the way, then we know exactly where I am and then I can sit down with my team and Freddie and every one and see where we go from there. But one thing about me I think the world of boxing knows is I never shy away from any fight. I've taken on whoever they put in front of me and I've never refused a fight. That's one thing about me. They put Floyd Mayweather in front of me; I'll be more than ready for Floyd Mayweather. But first of all, we've got Lamont Peterson to take care of.

On if he would fight again in DC if the December 10th fight is a success
Sure, definitely. I like to keep the fans happy and I'm sure once we fight there, the fans will want us back there again. There's not been a big, big fight in D.C. for such a long time, so it'll be good to bring boxing back to D.C.

---

The co-main event will feature another DC fighter, Seth 'Mayhem' Mitchell in a . a showdown against Timur Ibragimov, who is described as a very dangerous, hard, strong puncher in the heavyweight division.

These exciting and very anticipated match ups are presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Khan Promotions, set to take place Saturday, December 10th, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in DC.

It will be televised live in the United States on HBO's World Championship Boxing starting at 9:45 p.m. Eastern and 6:45 p.m. Pacific time and on Sky Sports in the United Kingdom.

For info visit AmirKhanWorld.com, and Golden Boy Promotions

Related
Monday, December 5th, will be the official kickoff Capital Showdown Week with events planned around the city.

Fernando Guerrero, 25, out of Salisbury, Maryland has been added to the undercard of the December 10th match ups. Other area boxers include Terron Grant, Thomas Williams, Jr., and Dusty Harrison.

While Lamont Peterson is the headliner for the Capital Showdown, we can't forget his brother Anthony Peterson, also scheduled to fight on the card.

Here's what we call 45 Seconds With Anthony Peterson.

Anthony will face Daniel "The Prophet" Attah (26-8-1, nine KO's), also a DC figure head, in a 10-round lightweight contest. Attah is a former NABO Super Featherweight champion who hails from Nigeria.

Attah History: Fought Acelino Freitas for the WBA and WBO Super Featherweight titles in 2002 in a 12-round unanimous decision in Phoenix, AZ, ending in a loss. Attah is coming off a sixth-round stoppage loss to Roman Martinez for the WBO Inter-Continental Super Featherweight title on October 1 in Bayamon, Puerto Rico.

---

Want more?

Watch fight called succulent to the palette.

Just added! Watch Lamont and Anthony Peterson shadow boxing.

See also, Seth Mitchell Spars

In other area fight news
Jimmy Lange Boxing returns with three world title fights scheduled for Feb. 11, 2012, headlined by Jimmy Lange's WBU title defense. Ashburn's Tori Nelson is set to defend her WIBA belt with a third world title contest to be announced soon. Great beltway bout between Chantilly's Zain Shan and Maryland's Tony Jeter plus undefeated Todd Wilson of Fairfax goes for his 12th win.

Tickets go on sale December 7 at Ticketmaster outlets including the Patriot Center box office.

Ted Leonsis' New Venture: Venture Capitalism

2011-12-01T17:29:00.005-05:00

When we asked Ted Leonsis, owner of just about all the sports teams in Washington, DC if his future plans included purchasing another sports team, he replied "No."

While it may not be another sports team in his future, his latest venture includes joining his former AOL buddy, Steve Case, to help businesses make money.

Read on about Ted's Revolution Growth Fund. (Note to Ted: We're your first client).

--

Dear Friends and Partners,

We are pleased to announce the completion of our fundraising for the Revolution Growth fund. We closed on $450 million of capital commitments, more than our target amount, and ahead of our expected schedule. The three of us will lead the Revolution Growth fund and collectively are the largest investors in the fund. We are pleased to be joined by 24 terrific institutional limited partners.

Our focus now turns to the excitement of investing in and building a select number of innovative, high-growth companies. Our strategy will be one of concentration, and we anticipate making ten to twelve investments over the next five years. We will spend considerable time with each company, rolling up our sleeves to partner with great entrepreneurs to build iconic platform companies. As you might expect, we are particularly interested in consumer-centric companies that use new approaches to disrupt large industries. We will seek out entrepreneurs and companies that aim to build lasting, market-leading companies that can be game-changing. We expect to announce our first investment early next year.

The three of us have worked together for more than 15 years. We genuinely like and trust each other, and our skills complement each other. All three of us will be active with each company in which we invest. Indeed, in some ways, the Revolution Growth fund is a “throwback” to the early days of venture capital. We are not just investors, but former CEOs and business builders who have the expertise and passion to be actively involved with the companies we back. By making only a few investments each year, we will have the time to really help the entrepreneurs with whom we partner.

We will look to invest in what we call the “speed-up” stage — when a company is past the venture stage, but not yet to the growth stage. In these companies, there is proof of concept and some early revenues, but not yet mainstream adoption or market leadership. We love helping companies scale and are willing to spend the time necessary to help them achieve their full potential. We will concentrate our capital and time in a select number of opportunities, so we can be highly selective. We expect that our typical investment will be $25 - 50 million, which will generally enable us to be the largest and most influential investor.

While our visibility and reach is national, we will generally focus on investments in the Eastern United States. We believe there are great entrepreneurs building great companies all over the country, so we will focus our attention outside of Silicon Valley. We are all very excited about the potential of backing promising entrepreneurs and helping them build special companies.

Revolution Growth fund will be the primary investment focus for each of us. Ted will, of course, continue to be active with his sports teams, and Steve will continue to spend time on public policy issues related to entrepreneurship and will also continue to make earlier-stage venture investments, but for all of us, Revolution Growth fund will be the main event for our business building activities.

We are grateful for the friendship and partnership you have shown us over the years, and we hope we will have the opportunity to work with you in this new endeavor. You can learn more about Revolution Growth fund and our efforts at www.revolution.com/growth. Needless to say, if you run into companies that you think can change the world, let us know!

Steve Case Ted Leonsis Donn Davis

--

Side bar: It is noteworthy to mention that Groupon, partly owned by Leonsis, went public last month. He also owns the popular Living Social brand.

As a suggestion, if we're not your first choice as a client, then we'd like to see the Revolution Growth Fund invest in the African American companies who didn't quite find favor in Silicon Valley, as seen on CNN's Black in America 4, with Soledad O'Brien.

Wizards' Ernie Grunfeld On The 2011 NBA Season

2011-12-01T16:51:00.007-05:00

It's been a little over three months since the NBA lockout began, and earlier this week the clouds gave way to sun when it was found out that fans would indeed have a 2011-2012 NBA season. Starting on Christmas Day.

In a press conference with the media today, Wizards general manager Ernie Grunfeld spoke about the start of the NBA season for his team.

"We're excited about having basketball back and getting started", he said.

The Wizards will start training camp on December 9th before hosting the Philadelphia 76ers on December 16th in preseason action. It will be first of two such meetings between the two teams, with the second meeting in Philadelphia on December 20th, with little practice time in between.

"And when you have a young group like we have, you want as much [practice] time as possible", Grunfeld said. "But we have to make due with the amount of time we currently have."

Previously the team would have played an opponent four times during a season, but with the shortened 66 game season, teams may only see an opponent two or three times.

Trips for the Wizards to play their West Coast opponents will also be reduced on the year.

Grunfeld also addressed the team's needs saying the team could use some veteran leadership.

"We started rebuilding last year with four 1st Round [draft] picks, adding more young players ... needed now are veterans to show leadership in the locker room."

But don't expect the organization to spend a lot of money in free agency to bring in big named talent.

"If you look at the Free Agent list, there's not a great free agent market out there and you don't want to tie up a lot of money now, explained Grundfeld. "You want to wait."

Speculation that Wizards' guard Nick Young may be traded prompted the question of whether there are any offers on the table for 17 point-per-game guard.

"There is an offer", Grunfeld said, but chose not to delve into specifics and did not specifically say if Young would be making Chicago his new home, as many have speculated.

Other Wizard FAs include guard Maurice 'Moe' Evans and foward Josh Howard.

Wizards' Oopen House is December 8th. Visit www.washingtonwizards.com for season schedule and info.

---

Wizards head coach, Flip Saunders will address the media on Friday, December 2nd.

'Hunt'-er For Red December

2011-11-29T17:36:00.011-05:00

Caps Replace Bruce Boudreau

Bruce Boudreau the storied, yet oft times questionable coach of the 'Rock the Red' Washington Captials was relieved of his duties this week as head coach and general manager of the team.

Dale Hunter, former NHL hockey player who began his professional hockey career with the Quebec Nordiques and ended it with the Colorado Avalanche, has replaced Brodreau.

Dmitry Orlov autographs picture for fan at the 2011 Caps Convention. Photo CD Brown.
The hope of managment and players is that Hunter's no nonsense style of play will spill over into his coaching technique to try to take the up again, down again, Caps in a new direction.

"Dale Hunter is one of my favorite players to ever wear a Caps uniform - a former captain who was a leader in every sense of the word", writes Caps owner Ted Leonsis. "He is a hockey man through and through. But more importantly, he is inspirational, smart and hard working. In addition to being one of the most decorated players in our team’s history, Dale has been an extremely successful owner and coach of the London Knights."

The Capitals begain their season with a 7-1 run early on in the season before suddenly taking a downward turn in the rankings.

Much a do about nothing, some would say. Some Caps fans say Broudreau, who 'built' the team, was given a raw deal.

"They've always been a team that loses some, and then bounces back and starts winning again", said one hockey fan we spoke to a local grocery store proudly wearing a Caps T-shirt.

"I don't think Bruce should have been fired", he told us.

Yet others have suggested that the writing on the wall for Broudreau to end his time in Washington has been clear for some time.

Enter Hunter, 51, the 15th coach in Washington Capitals history. He made his debut last evening as he watched his new team fall to the St. Louis Blues at Verizon Center, giving fans the blues, literally.

In other Caps coaching news Jim Johnson has been hired as the assistant coach.

As December quickly approaches, with the Penquins their next opponent, all eyes will be on this coaching duo to see if they can take the Caps to hockey's 'Promised Land', as the hunt to bring the Stanley Cup to Washington continues.

Feels Good Doesn't It? Skins Snap Six Game Losing Streak!

2011-11-27T19:25:00.015-05:00

With 'cameras rolling' the Washington Redskins won 23-17, in hostile territory, over the Seattle Seahawks Thanksgiving weekend, ending their six-game losing streak.

"It's nice to feel good about your football team", said Coach Shanahan. "It's always nice to win."

A nice way to end the month. A nice way to remember their fallen comrade, Sean Taylor, on the four year anniversary of his passing.

Can we credit the offense?

Roy Helu's acrobatics - hurdling over a Seattle defender to not only get the anticipated first down, but a touchdown. Helu rushed for 108 yards on the day, perhaps solidifying a starting position with the team. The Redskins are 2-0 this season when producing a 100-yard rusher.

Grossman, in his last two games (Dallas/Seattle) has shown the stuff he's made of, throwing for 314 yards, but with two interceptions.

The biggest score of the day game from Grossman's third down, on-the- money, bullet-like 50 yard pass to Anthony Armstrong in the end zone during the fourth quarter to seal the win. The touchdown is Armstrong's second touchdown of the season and the 50th reception of his career.

Grossman also connected with tight end Fred Davis for a two-yard touchdown pass on the Redskins’ opening drive. With the team having problems scoring early in games this season, the Grossman-Davis touchdown was the team’s first on an opening drive this season.

"I liked the way he played", Rex's coach said. "He made some great throws, some great reads. Sometimes you're going to have interceptions, and all of a sudden you're really dissappointed in your reads and other times you're throwing an interception and say hey, I make that throw everytime. And you always feel good about that type of mindset", Shanahan said after recalling what he said he saw from the sideline.

DeAngelo Hall, after making disparaging remarks last week that he should be cut after not defending well against the Dallas Cowboys, made a fourth quarter interception, perhaps redeeming himself (at least for one week). The catch was Hall's 34th interception of his career.

Santana Moss returned to action this past Sunday after sitting out for about a month with a broken finger. His time to shine was dimmed when Richard Sherman picked off a Grossman throw to Moss in the path of three Seattle defenders.

Notwithstanding the Seattle weather, Skins' kicker Graham Gano found his kicks blocked by Seattle, not once, but twice. Maybe it wasn't the weather as much as it was Seattle's Red Bryant.

Marshawn Lynch rushed for 111 yards for Seattle and caught a 20-yard touchdown pass on the day.

Even so, Seattle head coach Pete Carroll wasn't that impressed, saying he needed to do a better job of coaching.

"We're just a young bunch of guys. There were too many things in the game that shouldn't have happened", citing the team's penalties and mistakes. "We have to continue to improve our awareness, the situation that we're in and the choices we make."

The Redskins have won their last six regular season meetings with the Seahawks, and look ahead to host the New York Jets at home next Sunday.

Related
Game highlights and interviews.

Up and Coming DC Boxer Lands Thanksgiving Knockout Punch!

2011-11-27T14:22:00.015-05:00

Veteran announcer makes rare gaffe.

Gary Russell, Jr. got a first-round knockout over Heriberto Ruiz over the Thanksgiving holiday. Remaining undefeated Russell gave a right hand to Ruiz sending him to the canvas in less than three minutes of Round 1.

It would be Russell's first knockout in his last seven contests.

With the win, however, Russell improves his record to 19-0, with 11 KOs. He is ranked number 10 by the WBA. Heriberto Ruiz, the veteran in the matchup, falls 48-12-2, 30 KOs.

Russell, a native of Maryland, has four other siblings; all of which are poised to become 'ones to watch' on the boxing scene.

A real awkward moment coincided after the match as boxing's iconic announcer, Michael Buffer, mixes up the names, almost presenting Ruiz with the win.

Watch the match and then note Buffer's gaffe at the end.

RFK Turns 50: Athletes Reflect

2011-11-27T12:39:00.006-05:00

Washington celebrated the 50 year anniversary of RFK stadium, the landmark stadium where Washington, DC sports teams came to dominate.

Naturally, when you think of sports played at RFK you think of the Washington Redskins, but on the evening athletes from all walks of RFK past, present, and future came to show their appreciation, and to reflect.

We caught up with Fred Valentine, baseball player for the then Washington Senators where he reflected on his early days in baseball, the state of baseball today, even giving us his thoughts on the Washington Nationals, and recent event surrounding Nationals' player, Wilson Ramos.

The RFK gala had on display memorabilia of the past, to include team jerseys, a stadium directory, even the orange colored bleachers of the past.

"We're excited", said Greg O'Dell president and CEO of EventsDC, the organization responsible for the overall programming of RFK Stadium events. "It's fifty great years not only as a way to celebrate the events and the performers that have been there over time, but we also want people to know that we still do great things there now."

RFK continues to host sporting events, most notably the DC United soccer team, the annual Military Bowl, the AT&T Nation's Football Classic.

Fans selected their favorite RFK Stadium memory at www.RFKstadium50.com. After the votes were tallied EventsDC came up with the RFK All-Stadium Team consisting of all time favorite people from baseball, football, entertainment, culture and more.

See who made the cut here.

Sean Taylor Remembered

2011-11-27T10:58:00.003-05:00

Four Years Ago On This Day

---

Speaking of Basketball

2011-11-26T12:24:00.012-05:00

The NBA Saves Christmas, amid some "give and take" from both sides.

NBA fans can can finally exhale.

After a virtual standoff, lockout, no show of the NBA season, the NBA powers that be have reached what they are calling a "tentative" deal that will allow the season to begin on Christmas Day.

Merry Christmas to NBA fans everywhere.

NBA 'finally on' TV. Logo mod by DC UrbanSports.
"We've reached a tentative understanding that is subject to a variety of approvals", said NBA commissioner David Stern on Saturday. "We're optimistic that will all come to pass and that the NBA season will begin on December 25, Christmas Day, tripleheader." (Full announcement here).

The match ups will (tentatively) consist of the Boston Celtics vs the New York Knicks, the Miami Heat vs Mavs, and the Chicago Bulls vs the LA Lakers.

"We really can't tell you much because we haven't as of yet had a chance to speak with the plaintiffs in the case", said Billy Hunter, NBA Executive Director. "I think I owe it first to them to discuss with them a tentative settlement that's been reached before we disclose to the press and the public."

NBA Christmas schedule,
although the NBA website schedule shows December 16 as the official start of the season.
No word yet (at time article was published) on the social networking site of one Mr. Ted Leonsis, owner of the Wizards, about the start of the NBA (he's busy with Caps stuff, perhaps and the holiday), but suffice it say a lot of Twitter folks have expressed their sentiments.

Here's one we thought was interesting:

Thanks to David Stern for giving me my annual reason to ignore my family on Christmas Day.

Here's another:

The NBA is back to play the remaining 75% of the season. Which is perfect for LeBron bc he only plays 3 quarters anyway.

and finally...

The NBA Lockout is over!! Yes! Lawd Is Good! Yesterday was Black Friday! now we have Black Basketball!!! Gotta Love it!!

Okay, maybe just one more:

Hey players who bailed out and signed deals in China with no #NBA out-clauses: HAVE FUN WITH THAT!

---

In other basketball news, closer to home, President Obama and First Lady Michelle will travel to Towson State today as Michelle's brother, Craig (see our '08 interview), who is coach of Oregon State will take on Towson later this afternoon in college basketball action.

When asked about the latest NBA news, the president gave two thumbs up and said, “Good deal.’’

**Update**

Oregon State won over Towson, 66-46.

A White House pool report indicated that actor Bill Murray was in the audience.

Ah, basketball.

Related
Watch NBA season announcement here.

President Obama to Host first ever Obama Classic with NBA players, December 12.

Even though the White House is mum on the venue, we still think it will be held at the Verizon Center. Where else?

Plus this guy already said President Obama has a standing invitation.

Plus, it will bring cameras to the Verizon Center, which will definitely be missing in the regular season since the Wizards won't get much air time this year.

Presidential Classic To Include Wizards' John Wall

2011-11-23T10:05:00.012-05:00

The NBA may lock out its players over player-owner negotiations, but a few players have an open invitation from President Obama December 12th to come to Washington, DC as the president hosts the first ever Obama Classic.

Players from both the NBA & WNBA confirmed to participate include:

Ray Allen - Carmelo Anthony - Chris Bosh - Vince Carter - Tyson Chandler - Jamal Crawford - Kevin Durant - Baron Davis - Patrick Ewing - Derek Fisher - Rudy Gay - Blake Griffin - Tyler Hansbrough - Juwan Howard - Antawn Jamison - Earvin "Magic" Johnson - Dahntay Jones - Brandon Knight - Kevin Love - Jamal Mashburn - Cheryl Miller - Alonzo Mourning - Dikembe Mutombo - Hamady Ndiaye - Chris Paul - Paul Pierce - Quentin Richardson - Doc Rivers - Steve Smith - Jerry Stackhouse - Amare Stoudemire - Tina Thompson - John Wall, and Russell Westbrook - and Magic Johnson, with more players to be added, and movie producer Spike Lee set to be one of the coaches.

The December 12th event is scheduled for a 4 pm showdown. The venue has not been confirmed. We think since the president has a standing invite from
this guy, it will likely be held here. We see it's available that day.

Click here for info and updates.

Holding Their Own, The Redskins Spark a Ray of Hope in 24-27 Loss To Cowboys

2011-11-20T14:39:00.018-05:00

"It's a Momentum Thing"

Fans took notice when the Tony Romo pass to Dez Bryant early in the first quarter put the Cowboys on the scoreboard first, leaving doubt as to whether the Redskins could hold their own.

But they did.

Rex Grossman, looking confident against the Cowboys.
Thankfully, Mike Shanahan saw the light and returned Rex Grossman to his position as quarterback against the Dallas Cowboys last Sunday.

After running in for his own four yard touchdown (his first rushing touchdown since Nov. 9, 2008), and a spot on 53 yard TD pass to wide receiver Jabar Gaffney, the Redskins looked like a football team -- something fans hadn't seen perhaps since their 3-1 win record before the Bye Week, icing the Skins' win streak.

But the Redskins ran on all cylinders Sunday. Credit the defense, and the offense, and special teams, all working in tandem to give viewers a heck of a game to watch.

"All three areas played well", said Skins' defensive lineman Barry Cofield.

"When we can force some turnovers and the offense can move the ball, and special teams can make big plays and everyone can contribute, we can be a team that can be reckoned with", he told us.

Credit the Skins' defensive stylings of London Fletcher, Ryan Carrigan (posting his sixth sack of the season), and Brian Orakpo who proved supreme in the 24-27 loss.

Fletcher had 16 tackles on the day and his third quarter sack gave him 34.0 sacks for his career.

We asked Cofield if his his comments last week served as the impetus for how competitive the team looked against Dallas.

"I hope it did", he said. "As depressed and as frustrated as I was then, I have a lot of hope now."

With the team having so much trouble scoring any major points, especially in the end zone, the team scored more points in Sunday's game than they have in their last five.

Grossman completed 25-of-37 passes for 289 yards with two touchdowns. His Miami college mate, Jabar Gaffney, finished the game with 115 yards receiving.

Grossman connected with Gaffney again, this time in the second quarter, for a 16-yard touchdown.

"The just came to me and I was trying to make plays whenever I could", said Gaffney who caught the ball a career high eight times.

Overall the team seems to be glad about Grossman's return. Especially with a four-yard touchdown pass with 14 seconds left in regulation to Donte Stallworth that tied the game 24-24, sending it into overtime.

Donte Stallworth catches a TD, his first since being resigned one week earlier.
A great feat for Stallworth who had just been released, and resigned with the Redskins, one week earlier.

When asked if that was the Rex he was used to, Gaffney responded, "That's the Rex. That's the Rex from training camp, and the first couple of games. Hopefully he can build off of that and we can build off of that as a team."

While the quarterback factor looked renewed, the kicker factor was a major one. Although it wasn't Gano's fault that the team couldn't set him up for better field goal position, Gano did miss the 49 yard field goal that would have given the team the needed win in overtime.

Gano successfully kicked a 59 yarder in Week 9 against the San Francisco 49ers.

"We're not down on Gano", said returner Brandon Banks, who had his own major play on the day with a 53 yard return, crediting the team's blocking.

"I'd ride with him any day of the week."

Shanahan, on the other hand, just might not share those same sentiments.

“Like everybody, you have to perform and you’re hoping that he performs at a high level,” Shanahan said of Gano. “If you don’t advantage of those opportunities, then you don’t kick in the National Football League very long.”

Hmmm. Does the same apply to coaches? Performing at a high level, and taking advantage of opportunities, that is.

---

Quote of the day:

"The fact that even though we would give up a score the special teams would pop a long run. That gives some momentum back to us. The fact that the offense converts on third down, that gives us some momentum. The fact that we were able to get sacks and force turnovers, that gives us some momentum. All those things the energy and the momentum that those things create, can change the outlook of a game. Can change the way the game is going. The biggest thing is that in each phase of the game had some confidence and we were able to feed off each other, and that's probably why we played our best game in a long time."

- Barry Cofield direct quote to DC UrbanSports on Sunday's game against the Cowboys.

National Child's Day

2011-11-18T11:51:00.006-05:00

As the nation was made aware this past week (and again this week) of the vile, cruel, inappropriate liberties taken with children by those in high places, it is timely that President Obama releases a proclamation, making November 20, 2011 Child's Day.

Here is an excerpt below.

On National Child's Day, we remember that the promise of
a brighter tomorrow is fulfilled by what we do for our children
today. As Americans, all of us share in the responsibility to
do our utmost to give our children the love, safety, and
protection that will nourish their development as healthy and
productive individuals. Let us kindle in them the hunger for
knowledge, the courage to follow their dreams, and the spirit
to pursue possibility wherever it may lead.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in
me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do
hereby proclaim November 20, 2011, as National Child's Day.
I call upon all citizens to observe this day with appropriate
activities, programs, and ceremonies, and to rededicate
ourselves to creating the bright future we want for our
Nation's children.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
eighteenth day of November, in the year of our Lord
two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.

BARACK OBAMA

While the jist of the Proclamation focuses on child health and education, everyone should share in the responsibility to protect a child's physical and mental health as well.

Read the entire proclamation here.

Related
Moving video. Canadians claim they value children.

NCAA actually should take action against Peen (no typo here) State.

Out at Redskins Park

2011-11-17T12:57:00.015-05:00

Waived 5 Times (At Least) By NFL Teams, Skins Sign TE Rob Myers

With the Redskins roster reaching critical status due to all the injuries within the last week, the coaching staff at Redskins Park is trying to do some heavy damage control, adding TE Rob Myers to the team’s practice squad earlier this week.

The item that struck me the most, giving me pause, was Myers' bio.

Myers (6-4, 239) was originally signed by the New York Jets as a college free agent on April 30, 2009, before being waived on May 29. He signed with the Philadelphia Eagles on Aug. 8, before being waived on Sept. 5 and signing with their practice squad a day later. He was waived by the Eagles on Sept. 24. He signed with the New England Patriots’ practice squad on Nov. 3, where he remained for the rest of the season. Myers was signed by the Patriots as a free agent on Jan. 13, 2010, before being waived on Sept. 4. He signed with the Buffalo Bills’ practice squad on Sept. 13, before being waived on Oct. 1. Myers signed with the Indianapolis Colts’ practice squad on Oct. 26, where he remained for the rest of the season. He was waived by the Colts on August 8, 2011.

Orginally, I thought like most of you reading this: This guy's been around the League. Then you wonder about his ability, given the number of teams that have added him, then released him, in such short periods of time. Can he even play? Is he healthy?

An overview describes Myers like this...

A nice receiving tight end/H-back prospect who converted from the wide receiver spot, Myers stood out as a junior with 21 catches for 320 yards and three touchdowns. But his senior season was a washout because of a turf toe. He also missed time in the 2006 and 2007 seasons with leg and groin injuries, respectively. His athleticism and hands got him an invite to the Combine, where he can get on teams' radars as a late-round pick or priority free agent -- if his toe is healthy. Had an arm span of 32 1/4 inches and a hand span of 9 1/2 inches at the combine.

But, (and there's always that), if you look at the Redskins' upcoming game schedule, you'll find the Skins' next opponents are, in fact, New York and New England. Both are teams Myers has had some history with.

Could the Myers acquisition be a Shanahan move that he thinks (in his words) will give the team the "best chance of winning" football games?

With Dallas coming into town this weekend, fresh off a 44-7 butt kicking win over the Buffalo Bills (another Myers tie) this will be a chance, if not THE chance, for Myers to prove what he's made of.

Redskin linebacker Brian Orakpo, speaking on the John Thompson show, shares his thoughts on the Cowboys, and what he thinks the team needs to do be successful, going forward.

"We can't play like robots", said Orakpo.

In other Redskin news, the Redskins have signed defensive lineman Darrion Scott and resigned wide receiver Donté Stallworth. Defensive lineman Kedric Golston and wide receiver Leonard Hankerson (hip) have both been placed on the Reserve/Injured list.

Safety Kareem Moore has been waived at this time.

Capital ShowDown Workout

2011-11-15T17:01:00.008-05:00

While the rest of the DC sports reporters continued to concentrate on the sick, sordid, weird, disgusting world of Joe Paterno and Jerry Sandusky and all the 'Nittony lying' going at Penn State, the real DC sports news was being made over at Header Banger boxing gym this morning where boxers in the upcoming Capital Showdown boxing extravangaza gave the media a taste of what we'll see on December 10.

Lamont Peterson (left) with brother Anthony Peterson after workout leading up to the December's Capital Showdown. Lamont faces Britain's Pakistani boxer Amir Khan.
We caught up with heavyweight contender Seth Mitchell who will fight against Timur Ibragimov. In our interview, Mitchell discusses his upcoming opponent, meeting the legends of boxing, and his role as a professional boxer.

Here's Mitchell sparring this morning.

Click here for the Mitchell Core Workout System video.

Fight Info
"Capital Showdown: Khan vs. Peterson," a 12-round Unified Super Lightweight World Title Fight for Khan's WBA World Super Championship and IBF World Championship taking place on Saturday, Dec. 10 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Khan Promotions and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, DeWalt Tools and AT&T. Also featured will be a 10-round heavyweight battle between Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell and Timur Ibragimov. The fights will be telecast live in the United States on HBO's World Championship Boxing at 9:45 p.m. ET/6:45 p.m. PT and on Sky Sports in the United Kingdom.

Keep it right here as we continue in Part II of this morning's workout session with brothers Lamont and Anthony Peterson.

Related
Boxing manager promotes Capital Showdown!

It's Desperation Time for the Washington Redskins!

2011-11-14T17:07:00.005-05:00

One almost feels sorry for Mike Shanahan. Almost.

There he is speaking to the media after each game: Stern faced, posturing, trying to defend the reason why the team he commands has lost, yet again.

His soldiers have grown weary. A few have gone down for the count. A few are mad behind the team's loss Sunday to a winningless Miami.

Shanahan is struggling. The fans see it. The media sees it. And deep down inside the two-time Super Bowl winning coach knows it.

He’s over his head. He’s in too deep. It isn't just the fact that he doesn’t have the pieces he needs to get the job done, week-to-week, game-after-game.

It's the fact that he doesn't know how to use what he's got in front of him.

Shanahan's reached the lowest point in his coaching career with the Washington Redskins, twice. And the season isn’t even over yet.

After a complete 0-23 shut out by the Buffalo Bills two weeks ago, Shanahan has logged yet another career low; this time losing five straight games in a row. (Two to teams with 1-6 records).

Shanahan’s posturing with the media, his secretive manner about team’s inner goings on, may just be defense mechanisms used to cover up the fact that he just isn’t that good of a coach afterall here in Washington.

He has yet to build a strong, cohesive unit, able to score touchdowns to win games.

The Washington Redskins continue to be the laughing stock of the NFL, and the commander in chief continues to claim he is making the decisions that give this team “the best chance to win football games.”

Another ‘decision’. Another week. Another loss.

Granted, he didn’t say he’s making the right decisions that will give the team the chance to win football games. He just said ‘decisions’.

It’s time Shanahan stopped using that phrase.

We aren’t winning football games. And just as Santa doesn’t bring gifts to children who have been naughty throughout the year, the NFL doesn’t reward losing teams with a chance at the Playoffs.

And Papa Johns doesn’t give free pizza toppings to fans of losing football teams.

How To Win
We've tried getting rid of players that don't work, getting rid of quarterbacks that don't work. In the past, we've even gotten rid of coaches that haven't work.

If we were to try those things, I'd bet on getting Terrell Owens as running back.

If we are making a coaching change, I'd bet on getting Joe Paterno. He's got a 43 year winning track record.

Just hide the young folk.

At this point, we need to try anything, and everything.

It's desperation time.

Just try.

Fight For Children Honors Frazier & Founder

2011-11-13T18:10:00.024-05:00

Joe Robert, founder of Fight For Children, the organization that gives area children a fighting chance, was honored for this 22 years of service.

Having gained a noticeable amount of weight since his last Fight Night gala, Joe Roberts was wheeled into the boxing ring (cigar in hand) where he received his own championship-like belt for helping kids receive a quality education.

Over the last twenty years, Roberts has raised over over $450m. Roberts' next creation, The Joe Roberts Foundation, will continue the cause.

Boxing legends at center ring, attend the 2011 Fight For Children gala.
Suffering from brain cancer, often inaudible at times during his remarks at center ring, Roberts announced that he will be donating $5 million of his own money to his new foundation.

DC Mayor Vincent Gray presented Roberts with a proclamation, making November 10, 2011 'Joe Robert Day' in the District of Columbia.

The event that brings the legends of boxing together for a good cause was again a sellout that saw the likes of Aaron Pryor, Jerry Cooney, Boom Boom Mancini, Michael Spinks, and Larry Holmes.

Missing from this year's event, unlike past galas, was the celebrity factor.

In past Fight Night galas DC area businesses mixed with the likes of professional athletes and celebs like actor Chris Tucker, record producers Baby Face Edmonds and Jermaine DuPri, and 80s rap artist MC Hammer.

We saw no such celeb power this year.

Also not in attendance this year was Joe Frazier, who passed just days before the event, due to liver cancer.

Legendary boxer, Larry Holmes, remarks on Frazier's passing, calling "the current state of boxing a tragedy".

Boxing great Gerry Cooney said of Frazier's passing, "Nobody knew he was sick". Cooney called Frazier a one of a kind boxer who was "loved" and "would be missed".

Also not in attendance this year was boxing legend Ken Norton.

Three members of the 70s/80s funk group The Commodores (minus Lionel Richie) performed three of their greatest hits, to include Brick House. The group performed a special tribute to Joe Frazier with the group's signature Night Shift, originally a tribute song to legendary R&B artists Marvin Gaye and Jackie Wilson.

The event showcased several rounds of boxing.

Baltimore's Emmanuel "Tranzformer" Taylor (14-1), who told us his fighting style mirrored that of the late Joe Frazier, lost an eight-round split decision to Cleveland, Ohio's Prenice Brewer (16-1).

In the second fight on the evening Alexandria, Virginia's Jerren "Hard Knock" Cochran dominated Winston Salem's Jason Rorie to win via unanimous decision.

Wilson's record improves to 4-0, while Rorie, anxious for his next contest, falls to 6-14-2, with three KO's.

Fighters of the upcoming December 10th Capital Showdown boxing event to be held at the DC Convention Center made an appearance. The event features undefeated heavyweight contender Seth Mithcell against Timur Ibragimov, and welterweight LaMont Peterson going against Amir Khan. Brother Anthony Peterson also made an appearance. His opponent for the December 10 showing is yet to be announced.

Photos
The folks over at Revamp.com have a nice photo spread of the evening. Click here to see.

Rude Jude v Money May

2011-11-08T11:32:00.005-05:00

Sometimes I love 'Rude' people.

Mayweather takes on radio DJ 'Rude Jude', who called the 'money man' on the carpet, saying he was ducking fighting Manny Pacquiao.

Jude also told Mayweather his HBO 24/7 episodes are "more interesting" than his actual fights.

In response, Mayweather said, "We always rise to the occasion".

We're hoping he does and can offer up a bout with Manny P.

Listen to the interview here.

WARNING: Strong language.

--

In other Mayweather news, Mayweather has offered to pay for the funeral services of former boxer Joe Frazier, who passed Monday, November 7th at the age of 67 with liver cancer.

"My condolences to the Frazier family. The MoneyTeam will pay for his Funeral service", tweeted Mayweather.

Smokin' Joe Frazier Dies at 67

2011-11-08T09:52:00.015-05:00

One of the greatest in boxing history, Joe Frazier, has died after a brief bout with liver cancer.

Frazier was the first boxer to knock out another boxing great, Muhammad Ali. The two fought tirelessly, and toe-to-toe in 1971 at New York City's famed Madison Square Garden. But it would be infamous fight between the two champs in the Phillipines at the epic 'Thrilla In Manilla' that would design and cement the legacy of the two monumental boxers.

The two boxing giants fought in two other memorable events: The Fight of the Century and Ali-Frazier II. Ali won both.

Even after the dispicable, deplorable behavior of Ali (who graces the November, 2011 cover of Mens Journal magazine) leading up to the Thrilla in Manilla bout (for which he later apologized) the two would eventually become allies, even thought they still continued to trade insults at each other.

On Frazier's death, Ali calling Frazier a "great champion", said "I will always remember Joe with respect and admiration. My sympathy goes out to his family and loved ones."

Frazier remained active in his later years, hosting charity events and even going on the road promoting his singing group Smokin' Joe Frazier and the Knockouts.

He received a Lifetime Achievement Award and served as co-sponsor for several charity events.

He was a staple at the yearly Fight Night charity event for children and could be seen mingling with former boxing legends like Cooney, Shavers, Spinks and others.

The crowd loved watching him shadowboxing inside the event's ring.

Joe Frazier seen here in 2008 at the annual Fight For Children Fight Night gala. Photo/CD Brown.
Frazier was born Jan 12, 1944 in Beaufort, S.C. where he became interested in boxing at an early age. He became a top amateur for several years before finally winning a gold medal in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics - the only American fighter to do so.

Even then he showed his toughness, fighting with an injured thumb.

His autobiography, Smokin' Joe: The Autobiography of a Heavyweight Champion of the World, came out in 1996.

He remained actively involved in his boxing gym in Philadelpia where future boxing champions are being trained.

"The kids are tomorrow", said Frazier. "If we don't do for them now, how can we expect them to carry on."

2011 Fight Night Fight Card Announced

2011-11-07T13:01:00.002-05:00

Fight For Children’s Annual Fight Night - one of the region’s most anticipated events - returns to the nation’s capital on Thursday November 10, 2011 at the Washington Hilton (1919 Connecticut Avenue NW). The event is the signature fundraiser for Fight For Children, an independent non-profit organization fighting to ensure all kids in DC receive a great education and stay healthy so they can learn.

As in past showings, the legends of boxing grace the Fight Night stage each year, the likes of which include, Buster Douglas, Gerry Cooney, Ray Mancini, and Smokin' Joe Frazier, to name a few.

Given the news on the recent health condition of Frazier, it is unlikely that he will make an appearance this time.

But, we know he will be present in spirit.

The Boxing Card

This year’s boxing card features three undefeated local fighters – Emmanuel Taylor from Edgewood, M; Jarren Cochran out of the Alexandria Boxing Club (the original Fight Night beneficiary); and Jayce Thompson, from Palmer Park, MD. Each of the three will compete in a professional bout against an out-of-town fighter (as always, the card is subject to change):

MAIN EVENT – 8 Rounds – Jr. Welterweights

EMMANUEL TAYLOR vs. PRENICE BREWER

Edgewood, Maryland Cleveland, Ohio

14-0, 10 KO’s 15-1, 6 KO’s

4 Rounds – Featherweights

JARREN COCHRAN vs. JASON RORIE

Alexandria, Virginia Winston-Salem, N. Carolina

ABC Boxing Club ESPN Veteran

3-0, 3 KO’s 6-13-2, 3 KO’s

4 Rounds – Welterweights

JAYCE THOMPSON vs. COREY PRESTON

Palmer Park, Maryland Cincinnati, Ohio

Sugar Ray Leonard Boxing Gym Cooper Boxing Club

1-0, 1 KO 1-6, 1 KO

Fight Night brings together 2,000 of the nation’s top leaders in business, government, sports and entertainment to raise funds for Fight For Children and other organizations that provide education and healthcare services to low-income children in Washington, DC. Gerry Cooney, James “Buster” Douglas, Larry Holmes, Jake LaMotta, Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini, Aaron Pryor, Earnie Shavers, and Michael Spinks are the Legends expected to participate, along with celebrated trainer and manager Lou Duva.

For more details about Fight Night visit www.fightnightdc.org. For more information on Fight For Children or any of its programs, visit www.fightforchildren.org.

In Front of Alumni (and Die Hard Fans), Skins Lose Yet Another One

2011-11-06T16:20:00.021-05:00

"Gaining valuable experience", the Redskins lose to San Francisco today 11-19, after an impressive Redskins pregame alumni presentation at FedEx Field.

Redskins alumni align the sideline at FedEx Field.
Despite the loss, missed tackles, fumbles and passes the team's head coach, Mike Shanahan, tells reporters, "We played hard", and feels his team "had a great effort out there."

Shanahan is so sure of his team (at least in public) he further tells the media, that even though they've lost the last 4 straight games in a row, his team is "gaining valuable experience."

With a look of trepidation on his face, a fan contends he loves his Redskins.
Photo/Aaron J. for DC UrbanSports.
Shanahan explains his mindset here:

As I tried to point out, there is going to be inconsistencies when you move a lot of people around to different positions. You could see that inconsistency today but these guys are gaining valuable experience. Not only the quarterback, but also the wide receivers, the running backs… Eventually it’s going to pay dividends when some of these young guys get some playing time. As a group, when you have that many new pieces—and without a guy, an extra tight end, different guys that you’re trying to work in—it does look a little rag-tag and that’s the reason why we were so inconsistent today. Hopefully, with eight games remaining, we can get better each week and some of these guys are getting some valuable experience, are ready to start playing at a high level and will start feeling more comfortable playing with each other.”

Shanahan loves the current state of Redskin showmanship so much that he's willing to continue to 'bet on Beck' by keeping the rookie-like QB at the helm going forward.

“Yeah, we’re going to stick with John”, said Shanahan.

At this point you may be asking yourself, while pulling out your hair, why?
With Grossman in the game, the team won three games. With Beck in the game, the team has lost four straight.

Tale of two young teams

So, while the young players continue to get OTJ (on the job training), the team loses to a team that also has young players. Looking at the San Francisco 49er team roster, you can see that most of its players are in their twenties, as are the Redskins - who opted to go young as well.

The difference? San Francisco, 7-1. The Redskins, 3-5.

In Week 9 of the 2011 NFL season of the Washington Redskins, we're still trying to see what Mike Shanahan sees. We're trying to understand the Xs and Os of the Shanahan methodology, and quite frankly, it's blurry from where we stand.

Unless something is done quickly with this Washington Redskins team, we could see the rest of the Skins' season dipping further and further into an abyss of chaos and utter

Gaining experience is good. Gaining wins going into the second half of the season, priceless.

Also priceless is the look on the face of Skins' kicker, Graham Gano, who nailed a 59 yard field goal in the waning seconds of the first half to give the team its first points of the game.

Gano's kick was the longest field goal in Washington Redskins history.

Graham Gano connects on a 59 yard field goal, and is elated.

Catch of the Day

Beck missed a pass (or two) to Gaffney in the game, but in a 'do-over' Beck eventually connected with Gaffney for a touch down with 1:10 to go in the 4th.

Some men are so gifted. Jabar Gaffney catches the only TD of the day.
Oh, if only we could have a 3-peat of that (in every game going forward)!

Straight From the Horse's Mouth

DeAngelo Hall tries to explain why the Skins. . . KEEP LOSING.

"I don't feel like we're playing bad", explains Hall.

Adds, "I'm just as frustrated as ya'll."

Take a listen, as Hall tries to explain, in between the ranting of the mouthy show hosts.

DeAngelo Hall

Coach of the Week: Natalie Randolph

2011-11-03T20:34:00.003-04:00

It's About Time!

The Washington Redskins named head football coach Natalie Randolph of Coolidge High School in Washington, DC the Redskins High School Coach of the Week for the week of November 1, 2011.

The Colts are led by Randolph, one of the few women in the U.S. ever to coach a boys' varsity football team.

In March, the selection of Randolph, a biology teacher and former college track star and pro women's football player, as head coach kicked off a frenzy of attention and merited a press conference with D.C. mayor Adrian Fenty, who declared March 12"Natalie Randolph Day." (Parade Mag)

Coach Randolph enters her second season at Coolidge High School. During this time, she has won Eastern Board of Officials Coach of the Year in 2010, Pigskin Club of Washington Coach of the Year in 2010, DCIAA West Division Coach of the Year in 2010, and the House of Representatives Women’s History Month Honor.

The Colts are currently 7-1 on the season and ranked 8th in the Maxpreps poll for the District of Columbia.

7-1.

Off the field, Randolph speaks regularly to community and school programs to motivate coaches, athletes, and young women. She also serves on the advisory board for “Team Up for Youth”, which is a nonprofit organization supporting young women in sports. As a team, the players volunteer at local little league programs, participate in a community breast cancer awareness campaign, and serve as mentors at local middle schools.

Each week during the 2011 high school football season, the Redskins will select one area high school head coach as the Redskins High School Coach of the Week. The selection is based on the coach's continuing commitment towards promoting youth football, developing motivated student-athletes, his/her overall community involvement and overall team performance and record.

Each of the coaches chosen throughout the high school season will receive a $1,000 donation from the NFL Youth Football Fund to their football program and a framed certificate signed by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, Redskins Head Coach Mike Shanahan and Redskins General Manager Bruce Allen.

It's A Shame! Skins Shutout 0-23!

2011-10-31T14:27:00.019-04:00

Not Even a Touchdown!

The Redskins' almost non-existent scoring drive is always a topic of discussion. Especially in the red zone.

Yesterday, it definitely was non-existent. Especially in the red zone.

Trick or Treat: Skins Ryan Torrain, last year, scoring a TD.
The Skins went scoreless against Buffalo Sunday in a 0-23 smackdown.
The only team in the NFL Sunday to score, and the only team to allow its quarterback to get sacked nine times (four times in the first half).

Count them: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9!

"No one expected that", said Bills' head coach Chan Gailey.

That alone has many asking where was the quarterback coverage?

Jason Campbell didn't even get sacked 9 times and we had a coach who wasn't even NFL head coaching material.

Beck lead the NFL Sunday in quarterback sacks, right behind Tim Tebow (whose QB aptitude is also questionable) with seven. Drew Brees and Kevin Kolb both were sacked six times, behind Cam Newton and Ben Roethlisberger who both saw grass in their faces five times.

The difference? All of the aforementioned teams scored.

Now, we have a coach who was lauded as the greatest NFL coach to come to Washington, (post Joe Gibbs era) since sliced bread and the team can't score in the end zone, not even via the trusty field goals the team has unfortunately relied on since the Jim Zorn coaching era.

As a result, the storied Mike Shanahan gets his first shutout of his coaching career.

“It’s pretty humbling to take that,” said Shanahan. "It's a tough one to take", he added, on being shutout.

Houston, we really have a problem here. A major one.

As a coach, what do you say to the fans? And please, no more of this "we'll have to take a look a the film and see what happened so we can learn from it and get better" mumbo.

If you're watching film to see where the break down is and you come back the following week and get broken up, watching film isn't helping.

What did you do, watching last week's film (or film from the two or three week before) that helped you in Toronto on Sunday?

As players, how do you not know who how to get at the men who are trying to get at your quarterback?

And please. No more of this "we have to learn from this and keep getting better" mumbo.

You're not getting better.

Two weeks ago coach Shanahan said, after he pulled Rex Grossman, that Beck would be the one to give this team a spark.

Well, the spark has fizzled, and the flame put out as America watched the Buffalo Bills' defense, offense, coaching, and play calling - all wrapped into one - dominate and decimate all over the Washington Skins.

Bills' tight end Scott Chandler caught two touchdown passes, that included a 15-yard catch at the start of the third quarter that gave the Bills a 20-0 lead that the Skins never recovered from.

Running back Fred Jackson rushed for 120 yards (74 yards receiving) in the Bills' first 4-0 start since 1995, at home.

Maybe it is Halloween. Maybe the Redskins did get tricked and treated to a smack down in 'Oh, Canada' by a team that showed up, and showed out. (View highlights, if you dare).

Said Bills' Fred Jackson, "As long as our defense is playing like that, we feel like we can beat anybody."

Jackson credits his teammates for "creating turnovers", and "getting sacks" that led to the shutout of the Redskins.

It was their first shutout since 2006 against the Miami Dolphins.

For the Redskins, it's back-to-the-basics for this 3-4 team that has lost its last three, with a coach that contractually, might be in Washington for four more years.

"There's going to be some good games, and there's going to be some games where you're a little off", said Shanahan.

What about the games where you're really off?

----

FYI
The Skins weren't the only Washington sports team to lose in Canada. The Washington Capitals lost in Toronto, as well.

The BrightSide (If any)
As far as any bright spot for the Redskins on Sunday? Perhaps a few.

A London Fletcher 2nd quarter Bills' QB pass interception (of all places, the Bills' end zone), a nice punt return for 25 yards from Brandon Banks, and Ryan Kerrigan's attack on the seemingly unstoppable running back Fred Jackson.

A few more to note.... as provided by Redskins Public Relations.

· Fletcher played in his 215 consecutive regular season game, tying him for most among active NFL players with Tampa Bay cornerback Ronde Barber. He also started his 171st consecutive game, most among active NFL linebackers.

· Linebacker Brian Orakpo recovered the first fumble of his career in the second quarter. The fumble recovery was the Redskins’ first since Barry Cofield recovered a fumble in the second quarter of Washington’s Week 4 win against St. Louis on Oct. 2.

· Defensive end Kedric Golston’s third-quarter sack of Fitzpatrick gives Golston 1.5 sacks for the season. Golston is now 0.5 sacks shy of tying his career high for sacks in a single season.

· Defensive end Stephen Bowen tied a single-season career high in sacks, registering a half-sack to reach 3.0 for the season.

· Punter Sav Rocca placed two punts inside Buffalo’s 20-yard line. Rocca now has 16 punts placed inside the opponents’ 20 for the season, pushing Rocca past Tampa Bay’s Michael Koenen (15), who led the league entering the game.

· Fifty percent of Rocca’s punts (16-of-32) this season have been downed inside the 20. Entering this week’s games, Rocca led the league with 53.8 percent of punts placed inside the 20-yard line amongst punters with a minimum of 20 punts. No other punter with a 20-punt minimum had a percent above 44 percent.

· Rocca had six punts without a touchback against Buffalo, giving him zero touchbacks on 32 punts this season.

· Running back Ryan Torain had his first reception of the season in the third quarter.

· Running back Roy Helu tied a career-high in receptions with three, set previously on Sept. 18 against Arizona.

· Rookie wide receiver Leonard Hankerson had his first career catch in the first quarter, registering a 23-yard reception for the Redskins’ first third down conversion of the game.

· The Redskins held the Bills to zero points on Buffalo’s opening drive. The Redskins entered the game as one of six teams yet to allow a touchdown on their opponents’ opening drive.

· The Redskins held the Bills to a field goal at the end of the first half. The Redskins are now tied for second in the NFC for fewest points allowed in the final two minutes of halves (12 – Atlanta).

Redskins Injuries: Fred Davis (Grade 1 ankle sprain)

Redskins High School Coach of the Week
Tommy Reamon of Landstown High School in Virginia Beach, VA the Redskins High School Coach of the Week for the week of October 24, 2011. The Redskins High School Coach of the Week program is designed to recognize and reward excellence in high school football coaching. Coach Reamon is in his third season at Landstown High School and has an overall record of 106-90 in his 25 years of coaching. The Eagles are currently 6-2 on the season.

Capital Showdown In Our Town!

2011-10-27T12:53:00.012-04:00

December 10th Welter Weight Boxing Event Described As "Succulent To The Boxing Pallet". Tickets go on sale Friday, October 28, 2011.

"People don't realize how good of fight this is going to be", said Sharif Salim, manager for Seth 'Mayhem' Mitchell who will also be on the card.

Salim coined the fight between Khan and Peterson, "succulent to the boxing pallet".

Citing the boxing styles of the Khan and Peterson as "the same", he tells us the hunger in both fighters is what will make this fight a non-stop, toe-to-toe action packed boxing event.

Khan will be looking to hold on to his current super welter-weight championship status, while Peterson will be looking to gain the title.

DC's Lamont Peterson (right) stares down Amir Khan during the August press conference at the W Hotel promoting the fight. Photo/CD Brown.

The other half of the boxing Peterson twins, brother Anthony (30-0), suffering his first defeat last year against Brandon Rios said he is proud of his brother.

"Absolutely", he said.

Then, in a revealing piece of not 'heard often information', Anthony goes on to say about he and his brother's boxing careers, "This wasn't my dream", I was just trying to chase him", citing his want to emulate his brother.

Anthony Peterson is priming himself for a comeback in the near future.

The December 10th event at the Washington Convention Center will also feature DC undefeated heavy-weight boxer, Seth 'Mayhem' Mitchell.

DC's Lamont Peterson poses with Seth 'Mayhem' Mitchell during the August press conference at the W Hotel promoting the fight. Photo/CD Brown.
Said Mitchell on fighting on the card, "You've been introduced to Seth Mitchell. Come December 10th you'll see the 'mayhem'.

Lauded by some as the next Mike Tyson, Mitchell may be honored to be compared to Iron Mike, but says he just "wants to be the best Seth Mitchell he can be."

"I just want to stay focused, stay humble, and be the best I can be to reach my goal", Mitchell explained.

The fight will be broadcast on HBO.

Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com.

Out At Redskins Park: Mending A Broken Roster

2011-10-26T13:13:00.010-04:00

Cooley, Hightower on Injured Reserve

With several players out of the Redskins lineup, to include the newly placed Injured Reserve tight end Chris Cooley, the Redskins have made some adjustments, as to be expected in situations like this.

Or, as Mike Shanahan would say, "For obvious reasons".

Chris Cooley during training camp, chatting it up with former Redskin Joe Theisman.
Photo/CD Brown.
Adjustments that include picking up tight end Dominique Byrd and offensive lineman Jonathan Compas.

Byrd (6-3, 255) was originally drafted by the St. Louis Rams in the third round (93rd overall) of the 2006 NFL Draft. Byrd has six career receptions for 83 yards and a touchdown in 15 career games. After two seasons with the Rams, he was released on April 29, 2008 before signing with the Arizona Cardinals on May 5, 2009 after spending a year out of football. He was released on Nov. 24 before resigning with Arizona to a reserve/futures contract on Jan. 21, 2010. He was released on Aug. 30 prior to signing a reserve/futures contract with the Seattle Seahawks on Jan. 21, 2011. He was released by the Seahawks on Aug. 13.

Byrd played collegiately at Southern California from 2002-05, where he played his final two seasons with current Redskins tight end Fred Davis. In his time at USC, he appeared in 39 games and totaled 81 receptions for 968 yards and four touchdowns. In 2004, he was All-Pac-10 Honorable Mention.

Compas (6-3, 300) originally signed with the Oakland Raiders as a college free agent on April 29, 2009 before being waived on Aug. 31. He was claimed off of waivers by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sept. 1. He appeared in two games with the Buccaneers before being released on Sept. 24, 2010. He signed with the New England Patriots on Aug. 3, 2011 before being released on Sept. 2.

Compas played collegiately at UC Davis (Calif.), where he appeared in 36 regular season games from 2005-08. Compas, who received starts at both right guard and right tackle during his college career, received first team All-Great West honors in his sophomore, junior and senior seasons.

Tim Hightower carried for 88 yards against Carolina on Sunday.
Photo/Aaron J. for DC UrbanSports

Davis (5-10, 212) originally signed with the Detroit Lions as a college free agent on Aug. 24, 2009 before joining the team’s practice squad on Sept. 6. He was released on Oct. 30 before joining the Miami Dolphins’ practice squad on Nov. 9. He was signed to the Dolphins’ offseason roster Jan. 6, 2010 before being released on Aug. 23. He signed with the Minnesota Vikings as a free agent on July 31, 2011 before being released on Sept. 2 and joining the New Orleans Saints’ practice squad on Sept. 21. He was released a day later, and was added to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ practice squad on Oct. 5 and was later released by the Steelers on Oct. 18.

Following a redshirt year during Auburn’s undefeated season in 2004, Davis played collegiately at Auburn from 2005-08, seeing action at both safety and running back in addition to handling kick return duties. Davis appeared in 36 games, rushing 19 times for 253 yards and three touchdowns during his college career. He also amassed 1,455 yards and two touchdowns on 55 kick returns. In 2006, he totaled a then-school-record 756 kickoff return yards.

The team has to make do with the loss of Santana Moss ( out 5-7 weeks with broken finger), Tim Hightower (season ending ACL tear/IR), and London Fletcher ( hamstring).

Cooley will more than likely be out for the season as well, leaving coach Shanahan with yet another executive decision to make: whether to keep Cooley and hope he heals down the road to return at a later time, or release him from the Redskins roster.

Stay tuned.

As previously posted, John 'I- Don't-Mean-To-Be-Rude-but-I'm-moving-forward' Beck replaced Rex Grossman as starting quarterback.

And Terrell Owens is still available*.

----- UPDATE

The Redskins have waived offensive lineman Jonathan Campos, sign Brandyn Thompson.

The Washington Redskins announced today that they have signed cornerback Brandyn Thompson to the team’s 53-man roster.

Thompson (5-10, 177) spent the first four weeks of the season on the Redskins’ active roster, appearing in two games. Thompson saw action at cornerback in the Redskins’ Week 2 win against Arizona, and he appeared on special teams in Washington’s Week 3 game against Dallas.

Thompson was selected by the Redskins in the seventh round of the 2011 NFL Draft last April after having appeared in 49 games at Boise State. For his college career, he amassed 146 tackles (95 solo), seven tackles for a loss, 13 interceptions and three fumble recoveries.

*note to Shanahan: Go get him!

How Does He Look (In Wax)?

2011-10-25T20:10:00.006-04:00

Washington Capitals captain, Alexander Ovechkin, has his face immortalized in hockey history with a life-like statue, courtesy of Madame Tussauds in Washington, DC.

Tussauds is known for mimicking the likeness of famous people, including President Obama, Beyonce, Jennifer Lopez and others, with a pretty good accuracy.

We somehow think they missed the mark on Ovechkin.

While they did get the missing front tooth right, we can't help but wonder if the Madame - perhaps in an effort to present Ovechkin as a clean cut, gentleman of the ice - used a junior or senior high school picture. The likeness just doesn't bring out the grittiness and hard core hockey player that is Ovechkin, in our opinion.

He didn't get League MVP by playing Mr. Nice Guy.

Watch the making of the statue, and decide.

Additionally, we find that the Capitals name could be more prominently displayed on the front of the jersey.

Those are the glaring 'uh, ohs' we see.

Nonetheless, The Great 8 is now in wax for all to see; a nice belated birthday present.

The MVP, and the winning Capitals take on the Oilers this Sunday in a road trip that will hopefully see the Caps at 8-0.

Upcoming Caps Event
The Capitals are planning a Casino Night on February 10th at the Alexandria, VA Mark Center Hilton. Tickets are available now with proceeds benefitting Washington Capitals Charities.

College Basketball Classic at MSG

2011-10-25T20:06:00.005-04:00

NBA Commissioner David Stern may have cancelled two more weeks of NBA basketball, but the sport is not dead.

Enter the Big Apple Classic, the utlimate HBCU basketball experience!

Featured schools include VA State vs VA Union, Howard University vs Hampton.

For more info go to www.facebook.com/thebigappleclassic.

From Court To Cubicle: Mo Currie Goes Corporate

2011-10-25T09:36:00.004-04:00

Washington Mystics forward Monique Currie blogs about her experience as a corporate intern for a local real estate investment company.

Check it out.

Long gone are the days where people want to start a family and move to the suburbs. Instead the suburbs have now come to the city.

Now this transition “From the Court to the Cubicle”, surprisingly, has not been the easiest. Mind you, I’ve had to make many transitions in my life. Whether it was the transition from college to the WNBA or from the WNBA to living in a foreign country, I have been put in some very trying situations. But none as trying as figuring out how to use a copy machine or do a mail merger. God forbid they ask me to send a fax! A mail merger? What in the world is that?

More here.

Redskins Shaken, Stirred By Carolina Panthers

2011-10-24T14:56:00.029-04:00

Lose 20-33 to team with rookie quarterback.

The Carolina Panthers get their second win of the season in six weeks and it's against the Washington Redskins. Seemingly true to form, the Skins fall to a team who isn't much better than they are.

Cam Newton eludes Ryan Kerrigan. Photo Aaron J. for DC UrbanSports.
Neither Washington nor Carolina played well, and both teams relied on field goals to get on the board early in game.

Carolina's Olindo Mare gave his team a 3-0 lead against the Skins with a 20 yard field goal in the first quarter. Kicker Graham Gano, continuing his near perfect record, responded in the second quarter with a 31 yard FG to tie the game, 3-3.

This back and forth field goal dance would continue throughout the second quarter, ending in a Panther 9-6 lead, until rookie Carolina quarterback, Cam Newton would take the ball 16 yards in for Carolina touch down.

Washington, again responded in like form when John Beck ran for a four yard, third quarter, touch down. (It would take Washington that long to score a touchdown).

The team's second touchdown of the game came from a Beck seven yard pass to Fred Davis in the fourth.

John Beck carries the ball in for a four yard TD. Photo Aaron J. for DC UrbanSports.
Beck, seemingly fared well his first time out since having played professionally since 1997. (That's 14 years ago). He was promoted after Rex Grossman was benched in Week 6 amid four interceptions against Philadelphia.

Coach Shanahan remarked that he was pleased with Beck's performance his first time out.

"I think John overall played very well", said Shanahan.

On the day, Beck threw one interception and passed for 279 yards, surpassing Newton.

Skins' London Fletcher - doing a job on Carolina's Stewart. Photo Aaron J. for DC UrbanSports.
The not-so-great 1-5 Carolina team did a bang up job on the Redskins' most dependable players. Receiver Santana Moss broke a finger in his left hand (surgery expected today) and the rarely, if ever, hurt defensive lineman London Fletcher was out of the game with a hamstring injury. Running back Tim Hightower , who had 88 yards on the day, was sidelined with a torn ACL that could leave him watching from the sidelines for the rest of the year.

Adding more 'injury' to injury Rex Grossman was stricken, before game time, with pneumonia.

The Bye Week came two weeks, too early.

Cam Newton, despite having a stellar day, threw for just 256 yards where in previous games the rookie would have thrown for almost twice that much.

Should the Redskins defense take the credit?

What the Redskins can take credit for is losing to a team with a 1-5 record.

Players told us last week, after the loss to the then 1-4 Philadelphia Eagles, that they don't look at an opponent's record to determine whether or not they should, or shouldn't win games.

They also told us is that in order to win "you have to put four quarters together."

Apparently, that didn't happen this week either.

So, the question remains. With two weeks of not putting four quarters together, when will the Redskins put four quarters together to win another game? Will they be able to do so now with the bulk of their star players out with injuries (Fletcher, Moss, Hightower, Cooley) and player(s) aptitude in question?

The Redskins have a new coach and new players this season, but their performances are still on the margin.

Everybody's asking: Why can't this team get right?

Dare I say it. Dare I say it!

It's the coaching. We need better coaching. (Again)

Related
Game day photos here.

This Just In: Injury Report Update
We got word from Redskins Park regarding the injuries to the following players:

*Hightower (torn ACL): out 4 season (we knew that).

*Santana (broken finger): Had surgery (three pins put in his index finger)out five to seven weeks. (we suspected that)

*Fletcher (hamstring): Coach doesn't know the seriousness yet. Will update on Wednesday.

*Grossman (pneumonia): To remain in hospital for another 48 hours.

Video: Cam Newton At the White House

Howard Wins Homecoming!

2011-10-24T14:06:00.005-04:00

Victory Comes In OT.

Howard's Terrence Leffall on the move.
Howard Univesity Bison football has much to be proud about today. On the weekend of its homecoming festivities the home crowd saw their Bison team (4-4 overall, 3-2 in the MEAC) leading at the half with a stunning 13-0 score over its MEAC rival the North Carolina A&T Aggies.

Much of Howard's success at the half came as a result of the defensive job that was done of the Aggies' standout running back, Mike Mayhew, who was limited to just 34 yards on 13 carries.

"We were able to do slow Mike down by taking away his lanes and the things he is good at," said Howard linebacker Keith Pough, who had 3.5 tackles for losses. "He is great back and you have to stay disciplined or he will make you pay. I thought we did a great job on him."

But the Aggies had other weapons to assist them along throughout the game.

Noteably its quarterback Lewis Kindle who connected with wide receiver Wallace Miles to give NC A&T its first lead at 14-13 with 2:44 left in the third quarter.

Not a team to give up the Aggies continued their rally, one that found them in an amazing come-from-behind 21-21 tie leading into the fourth quarter.

North Carolina's Mayhew made the most effort with a 66-yard jaunt that took him through the right side of the Bison defense and into the end zone.

The back and forth scoring changes made for thrilling football action at Howard's Greene Stadium sending the game into an overtime frenzy that ended with Howard's Terrence Leffall scoring from three yards out with the help of Howard's key defensive stop on a goal line stand to help Howard secure the 35-28 win.

This is Howard's first homecoming win under the auspices of its current head coach Gary Harrell.

The Bison men meet South Carolina St. on Oct. 29 at home, at 1 pm. South Carolina concluding its last game with a 24-27 loss over Florida A&M.

November: Busy Month for DC Boxing

2011-10-24T13:54:00.003-04:00

So, you can't get enough of boxing, huh?

Consider this November lineup of upcoming fights featuring DC area boxers...

Thursday, November 3 -- Martin's Valley Mansion, Cockeysville, MD. This is the annual "Evening Ringside" to benefit the Jonathan Ogden Foundation. United Boxers is promoting the boxing portion of the event.

Friday, November 4 -- Coliseo Antonio R. Barcelo, Toa Baja, Puerto Rico. Charlottsville, VA middleweight George "Wartime" Rivera (13-6, four KO's) will be taking on former WBA Super Middleweight champion Manny Siaca (23-7, 20 KO's) in a 10-round bout.

Saturday, November 5 -- Smith Gymnasium, Fort Myer/Henderson Hall joint military base, Arlington, VA. This is a pro-am bout promoted by RBA Promotions, headed by a new promoter to the area, Richard Ashby. Local pros slated to appear on this card include WBC Female Middleweight champion Tori Nelson
, the returning welterweight Juan "The Savior" Rodriguez and heavyweight Antonio Robertson. The main event features former WBC/IBF Cruiserweight champion O'Neil "Supernova" Bell of Atlanta, GA (26-4-1, 24 KO's) taking on Rico Cason of Hermitage, TN (17-20, five KO's).

Saturday, November 5 -- Main Street Gym, Salisbury, MD. The first of November's nights of amateur boxing.

Thursday, November 10 -- Washington Hilton and Towers, Washington, DC. The annual "Fight Night" Fight for Children card. Undefeated Baltimore welterweight Emmanuel "Tranzformer" Taylor (14-0, 10 KO's) is slated to appear on the card possibly against Cleveland, OH's Prenice Brewer (15-1-1, six KO's) Also locals Jerren Cochran and Jayce Thompson will be on the card.

Friday, November 11 -- Du Burns Arena, Baltimore, MD. This will be a special charity amateur card to raise funds to battle breast cancer. The card is called, yes, "Boxing for Boobs." A percentage of the proceeds will be donated to the American Breast Cancer Foundation.

Saturday, November 12 -- Upton Boxing Gym, Baltimore, MD. Another strong night of amateur boxing.

Saturday, November 12 -- Howard University's Crampton Auditorium, Washington, DC. Babie Girl Promotions with a pro card in the newly refurbished auditorium.

Saturday, November 19 -- Maryland Sportsplex, Millersville, MD. (Mike) Paschall promoting an amateur card.

Saturday, November 19 -- Show Place Arena, Upper Marlboro, MD. Keystone Boxing is promoting a pro-am card.

Saturday, November 19 -- Bally's, Atlantic City, NJ. Cambridge, MD welterweight Dontre King (5-9-2, two KO's) takes his two-fight winning streak into Atlantic City to face Julio DeJesus of Millville, NJ (5-2-1, three KO's) in a four-round contest.

Saturday, November 26 -- Cincinnati, OH. Mr. Gary Russell, Jr. (18-0, 10 KO's) scheduled to open an HBO telecast against an opponent TBA.

... all leading up to the December 10th boxing match of the year featuring the new light-welterweight Champion Amir Khan as he tries to defeat the power and brawn of DC native LaMont Peterson at the Washington, Convention Center.

White House Basketball

2011-10-17T17:10:00.004-04:00

A basketball hoop is stationed inside the White House tennis court. Photo/CD Brown.
Here's a picture of a basketball hoop on the tennis court of the White House.

No, it's not the indoor basketball court that the president is known to use for his morning workouts, but a smaller one used by Sasha and Malia their friends, and guests.

We snapped a photo of this as we took the White House Fall Garden Tour last weekend.

For more pics of the White House fall garden tour, hop on over to our Politics pages.

1-4 Philly Eagles Defeat 3-1 Skins

2011-10-16T20:52:00.013-04:00

Interceptions Costly For Redskins.

"Tough loss today. We will be better next week, Hakuna Matata!"

That was a tweet from Redskin wide receiver Niles Paul as he watched his team fall apart before 80,000 fans at FedEx Field as the Redskins lose 20-13, to a 1-4 Philadelphia Eagles.

"The Redskins are better than this", shouted one Redskin fan, upset with the loss.

Eagles Asante Samuel (#22) and Nnamdi Asomugha (#24) celebrate after a reviewed penalty is ruled in favor of the Eagles. Photo/CD Brown.

Today’s loss is reminiscent of previous years when the Redskins would find a way to lose to teams they were supposed to have beaten. Then again, you don’t have to go back that far. Just think about two weeks ago when they lost to the hurt Tony Romo and the the Dallas Cowboys, 18-16. (Everyone expected the Skins to win that game).

Not even the 'bye' week could buy the Redskins a win over the Philadelphia Eagles, a team that lost its last three games.

Last year, with Mike Vick at the helm, the Redskins were defeated by the Eagles 59-28on Monday Night Football. Although the score was not as bad as then, the Eagles' QB Mike Vick praised his team's offense and defense saying, "We just wanted to come in and put a complete game together, all three phases of the game".

One could say they did that indeed, almost from the start, executing plays that would give the team a 20-0 lead as early as the second quarter.

Easy to do when the quarterback throws the ball to the other team - four times.

In a 'stunning display' of ineptness, Redskin quarterback Rex Grossman threw four interceptions, three caught by Eagle safety Kurt Coleman who said it was a blessing for his career "to come down to Washington."

Grossman was left explaining all four of his interceptions.

"The first one was a third and long, just out of field goal range", said Grossman on trying to get the ball to TE Fred Davis during most of those four interceptions.

"I saw Fred beating this guy, or at least in a coverage where they were going to be running together and I didn't like my own relief coverage...I had to put a ball up so Fred could go out and just get. It was intercepted and the ball should have been on the two."

While the Skins and Grossman were trying to figure out why the game wasn't going their way, Eagles' Kurt Coleman knew exactly why.

"On the first one (interception) they just tried to stretch us out, I was reading Rex, and I had a feeling that he would try to hit Davis because he is such a talented tight end. Once I saw that, I had to go and make the play", said Coleman.

Coleman, telling reporters in a post game interview that he now wants to make three interceptions every game, alluded that his other picks were just anticipating Rex.

"The others were just instincts. I just felt like Rex was going to throw and I just continued breaking on the ball."

Grossman, who had been penned last week "the best QB in the NFC East" by the NFL Network's Deion Sanders, threw for 143 yards completing 9 of 22 passes.

Coleman's performance on the day was somewhat reminiscent of DeAngelo Hall's four interceptions in last year's 17-14 win over the Chicago Bears, one giving Hall a 92-yard touchdown in the third quarter.

Eagles' safety Nate Allen had an interception off a Grossman pass to Jabar Gaffney in the second quarter.

It was just a few weeks ago that Coleman was benched after he missed an open-field tackle. Today, it was Grossman's turn.

John Beck in for Rex Grossman. Called "the spark" the game needed by Shanahan. Photo/CD Brown.
Coach Shanahan pulled Grossman in the third quarter replacing him with John Beck, hoping for a "spark" in the final quarter.

It would be the second time in as many years that Shanahan has pulled one of his quarterbacks from a game for underperforming.

"...with four turnovers there we thought it was time to make a change and give John an apportunity to show us what he could do", Shanahan nonchantly explained to reporters after the game.

It would be Beck's first time, since 2007, playing in an NFL game. He finished with 8 of 15 completed passing for 117 yard and a career-long 32 yard touchdown pass to Terrence Austin.

Speaking after the game, coach Shanahan would not comment on whether Beck would be the team's starting QB going forward.

"I will announce that later in the week after we make a decision."

That 'decision' may come as soon as Wednesday.

Grossman, when asked if he was worried about his job said, "I'm worried about getting better. It was a bad game, I got to forget about it and move on."

The Redskins 'move on' to face the 1-5 Carolina Panthers next Sunday.

Hakuna Matata.

Nice Things That Happened on the Day
Philly's Kurt Coleman and Nate Allen weren't the only safeties with interceptions. Skins' Oshiomogho Atogwe picked off a Vick pass in the third quarter intended for Brent Celek. (No gain).

Kick returner Brandon Banks set up a nice second half 47 yard return to, again, give the Redskins great field position.

Kicker Graham Gano completed a 50-yard field goal in the second quarter.

Punter Sav Rocca had two punts, both inside the 20, giving him 14 for the season. After Sunday's game he leads the NFL in punts inside the 20.

Redskin vs Eagles Game Injuries

Chris Cooley (broken finger/knee swelling)
Korey Lichtensteiger (knee)
Trent Williams (high ankle sprain)

Washington Kastles Owner To Receive Award By DC Chamber of Commerce

2011-10-13T15:18:00.005-04:00

Washington Kastles owner Marc Ein is to be honored with the DC Chamber of Commerce Business Leader of the Year Award.

Mark receives the award honor presented to an individual who has demonstrated the exceptional qualities needed in managing a successful business or organization. The honor also awards a recipient who possesses a proven record of business accomplishments, and demonstrates community engagement as a priority.

Ein is the Founder & CEO of Venturehouse Group, LLC, a technology holding company that creates, invests in and builds technology and telecommunications companies. He is Co-Chairman and Principal Shareholder of Kastle Systems, one of the nation’s premiere security firms. A native of the Washington area, Ein is also

Ein’s latest project, a joint venture with developer PN Hoffman and Madison Marquette, erected a new permanent home for the Kastles and began a development project set to transform the Southwest Waterfront.

Here's Mark to tell you about it.

The award ceremony, scheduled for October 22 at the Wardman Park Marriott, will also honor former fashion model turned restaurateur and lifestyle agent, B. Smith.

Smith will receive the Chamber’s Choice Award, an award honoring a local business or entrepreneur with high visibility in the District and a history of achievements both professional and philanthropic.

Smith and Ein join Eagle Bank; Chris Smith, Chairman and CEO of William C. Smith & Co; and Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Mid-Atlantic States, Inc. on the evening's list of honorees.

For more info visit DCChamber.org.

Chris Cooley: Love him or Hate him.

2011-10-09T15:09:00.014-04:00

This Tight End's for the Cure!

He creates pottery. He tweets. He puts his junk on the Internet. He is able to make plays on the field. He talks 'ish' about Dallas QB Tony Romo. And he hires his brother, Tanner Cooley, to run his websites and everyday Cooley Zone logistics.

Call him what you want. Say what you will, but we know one interest that has his heart: Contributing to finding a cure for breast cancer.

And so the Redskin Pro Bowl Tight End Chris Cooley will host the
3rd Annual Cooley’s for the Cure auction to raise funds for breast cancer charities at Clyde’s Willow Creek Farm on Monday, October 10th from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The event is held in honor of Cooley’s mother, Nancy Cooley, who is a breast cancer survivor.

General admission tickets to the auction will be $65 per individual. They can be purchased at the door, or by going to www.thecooleyzone.com.

The auction will feature memorabilia worn and signed by Cooley as well as his original pottery and drawings. In addition to the artwork, Cooley’s teammates and friends will support his cause by donating and auctioning a variety of Redskins memorabilia, including autographed jerseys, footballs, and helmets.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the Washington Redskins and other NFL teams around the league continue to host events in the name of finding a cure.

Keep it here as we will have more info on this topic with Chris Cooley that will also include the work of Tanya Snyder, wife of Skins' owner Dan Snyder.

In the mean time... and since you're a fan anyway, check out our Cooley fan vid.

Side note: Note to @thecooleyzone. Instead of a wrist band at the door, we suggest an 'F cancer' T-shirt to the 1st 50 patrons, instead. It will go over quite nicely, and you can afford it. Just my thought.

1985 Super Bowl Champs Honored at the White House

2011-10-08T15:46:00.010-04:00

Those NFL characters you loved in 1985 made their appearance at the White House when President Obama, Chicagoan and avid Bears fan, honored the team that had waited twenty-five years for their just due, calling them "The greatest team in NFL history."

View more videos at: http://nbcchicago.com.

The Bears, noted for their defeat of the New England Patriots in 1986, and their Super Bowl Shuffle, shuffled their way onto the South Lawn of the White House where finally a U.S. president honored the team that broke all barriers, records, and to their credit, recorded the only Grammy nominated song.

"We’re very proud that you honored us by bringing us here", said Bears former head coach, Mike Ditka. "It’s only 26 years after the fact, and five administrations, but thank you."

Super line backer Otis Wilson and Super Bowl MVP Richard Dent chatted it up with the media after the ceremony sharing stories of their career, even giving a bold prediction about the current Chicago Bears team.

Also on hand at the ceremony were wives of Walter Peyton and Dave Duerson, two players of the storied Bears who passed.

Check out the Bears' winning season record.

A football record for the ages.

Video: Relive the Super Bowl Shuffle.

See our 'Chicago Bears at the White House' photos here.

More on our Political blog here.

RFK Stadium Turns 50!

2011-10-05T11:19:00.011-04:00

An old DC favorite, RFK Stadium, turns 50 this week.

To celebrate, DC officials and althletes commemorated the occasion with a press conference today announcing the 'I Remember Campaign'.

Through campaign, fans can share videos, photos and comments on their most memorable RFK Stadium stories and experiences. Fans can also vote for the RFK All- Stadium Team - a roster of the 50 greatest athletes and entertainers in stadium history.

To participate, fans can visit www.RFKStadium50.com or www.facebook.com/RFKStadium.

Those attending the announcement included Vincent C. Gray, Mayor, District of Columbia, Kwame R. Brown, Chairman, Council of the District of Columbia, Jack Evans, Councilmember, Ward 2, Council of the District of Columbia, William N. Hall, Board of Directors, Events DC, Gregory A. O’Dell, President and CEO, Events DC, Charles Mann, Washington Redskins, Kevin Payne, President and CEO, D.C. United, Ben Olsen, Head Coach, D.C. United, Gregory McCarthy, Vice President, Washington Nationals, and Norm Neverson, George Washington University.

RFK Stadium was home for 36 seasons to the Washington Redskins. It is currently the home of the city's soccer team DC United. Other sporting events continue to take place at the stadium, to include last month's Maloof Money Cup skateboarding championship, the inaugural AT&T National rival college football contest between Howard University and Morehouse College, and the annual Northrup Grumman Military Bowl.

On October 12, a bipartisan Congressional Flag Football Team will meet the U.S. Capitol Police Flag Football Team for a charity game. Former NFL players will serve as coaches and players during the game. The list includes Art Monk, Rick “Doc” Walker, Ken Harvey, Gary Clarke and Cliff Russell of the Washington Redskins, John Booty (Philadelphia Eagles) and Renaldo 'Skeets' Nehemiah (San Francisco 49ers). (Visit www.CongressionalFootballGame.org for info).

History Behind RFK Stadium
The stadium was renamed in January 1969, for U.S. Senator and presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, who had been assassinated in Los Angeles the previous June. As Attorney General, Kennedy's Justice Department played a role in the racial integration of the Redskins. Along with Secretary of the Interior Stewart Udall, Kennedy threatened to revoke the team's lease at the federally-owned stadium until it promised to sign African American players.

RFK was the first major stadium designed specifically as a multisport facility for both football and baseball.

During the Nationals' tenure at the stadium, it was the fourth-oldest active stadium in Major League Baseball behind Fenway Park, Wrigley Field and Yankee Stadium.

(Source)

Orakpo Named NFC Defensive Player of the Week

2011-10-05T10:18:00.009-04:00

The National Football League announced today that Washington Redskins linebacker Brian Orakpo has been named NFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance in the Redskins’ 17-10 victory against the St. Louis Rams in Week 4.

Orakpo registered five tackles (four solo), two tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks and three quarterback hits against the Rams. The Redskins’ coaching staff also credited Orakpo with a forced fumble. His 2.5 sacks in the game represent the second-highest single-game sack total of his career and are the most by a Redskins player since he registered four sacks against the Oakland Raiders on Dec. 13, 2009.

The award marks the 32nd time a member of the Redskins has been named NFC Defensive Player of the Week since the NFL began awarding weekly honors in 1984. Orakpo is the team’s first winner since cornerback DeAngelo Hall earned the award after a four-interception performance against the Chicago Bears in Week 7 of the 2010 season.

Orakpo previously won weekly honors following Week 14 of the 2009 season while listed on the roster as a defensive end/linebacker. Prior to Orakpo, no Redskins linebacker had won the award since Ken Harvey following Week 13 in 1997. Orakpo is now one weekly honor shy of tying Wilbur Marshall for most by a linebacker in team history (three).

Orakpo, a two-time Pro Bowler, leads the Redskins in sacks this season with 3.5. The Redskins have 15 sacks on the season, tied with Philadelphia for most in the NFL. Orakpo has 23 career sacks, the fifth-most in the NFC and ninth-most in the NFL since he entered the league in 2009.

The 3-1 Redskins have a bye week, before facing Mike Vick and the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday October 16th at FedEd Field.

On how the guys will spend their time off, Mike Shanahan weighs in:

“These guys have come in in very good shape coming into camp with the lockout. I’ve asked them to get at least a couple of days of running in and told them, ‘God is watching.’ We’ll have to go with the honor system. We have guys that understand – we’re four games into the season and we have a lot to get done. I want their bodies to rest and mentally get away from football a little bit even though some may watch on the weekend. But, when they come back Monday, they’ll be ready to go against Philadelphia.”

But before that, family first. Right coach?

“I think there is time for everything. You have to make time, especially when you have kids and family. You better make time. Those are an important part of your life. I think as you get a little bit older, like I am now, and the kids are grown, it’s not as important, but now there are grandkids. It’s budgeting time and making sure you get a little bit of time for everything and have some priorities – you better make that a priority.”

1968 Olympic Champion John Carlos at the University of Maryland

2011-10-04T18:31:00.005-04:00

John Wesley Carlos and author Dave Zirin are on a book tour discussing The John Carlos Story: The Sports Moment That Changed the World.

John Carlos (far right) and Tommie Smith (middle) in 1968.
Seen around the world, John Carlos and Tommie Smith’s Black Power salute on the 1968 Olympic podium sparked controversy and career fallout. Yet their show of defiance remains one of the most iconic images of Olympic history and the Black Power movement.

The pair will speak tonight at the University of Maryland and will be at the National Portrait Gallery tomorrow, Wednesday, October 5th from 6-7pm.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2011-10-04T16:59:00.007-04:00

Celebs, Political and Sports Figures Help Celebrate

Tanya Snyder, wife of Redskins owner Daniel M. Snyder, along with the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Kathleen Sebelius, joined cancer advocates and survivors Tuesday, Oct. 4 to emphasize the importance of breast cancer awareness and recognize the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP).

NBCCEDP has given low-income, uninsured, and underinsured women access to lifesaving breast and cervical cancer screenings since 1991. The program will perform its historic 10 millionth screening this fall.

The event, held at the Capital Breast Care Center, featured Mrs. Snyder; Secretary Sebelius; Christopher W. Hansen, President, and John Seffrin, PhD and CEO of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), Dr. Louis Weiner, Director of Georgetown Cancer Centers; Stacey Ferguson, high-risk recipient of cancer screenings through the NBCCEDP; and breast cancer survivors.

The Capital Breast Care Center is an initiative of the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center. It provides comprehensive, culturally appropriate breast cancer screening services and health education to women in the Washington, D.C. area regardless of their ability to pay.

This event is one of several initiatives upon which Mrs. Snyder and the Washington Redskins will be embarking on during the month of October in support of the NFL’s Breast Cancer Awareness campaign.

On Monday, Sebelius joined Dr. Jill Biden , wife of Vice President Joe Biden, in several events to commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month and to highlight the affordable and accessible preventive care made possible by President Obama's Affordable Care Act.

The two, along with actress Jennifer Aniston, toured the Inova Breast Care Center in Alexandria, Virginia and hosted a viewing of the Lifetime movie Five, which explores the stories of families whose lives have been impacted by breast cancer.

Breast cancer will kill nearly 40,000 women in America this year, making it the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women, but greater awareness about and access to early detection measures can save lives.

At sunset yesterday evening, both the White House and the Vice President’s Residence at the U.S. Naval Observatory was lit pink to commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Announcing: The Return of DC Boxing!

2011-10-04T16:46:00.004-04:00

UNIFIED SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION AMIR "KING" KHAN SET TO FACE DC'S OWN LAMONT "HAVOC" PETERSON ON HBO WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®

LOCAL UNDEFEATED HEAVYWEIGHT CONTENDER SETH MITCHELL ALSO TO APPEAR

Capital Showdown: Khan vs. Peterson," a 12-round Unified Super Lightweight World Title Fight for Khan's WBA World Super Championship and IBF World Championship.

The boxer plan to announce their upcoming world championship fight set for Saturday, December 10 from Washington DC and televised live on HBO's World Championship Boxing.

The HBO World Championship Boxing® telecast begins at 9:45 p.m. ET/ 6:45 p.m. PT.

A press conference is scheduled for this Thursday, October 6th at 2pm at the world famous DC W Hotel - rooftop level.

"2011 CHOCOLATE CITY VS. THE CITY OF BROTHERLY LOVE" LOCKOUT EXHIBITION

2011-10-04T16:17:00.004-04:00

The battle for I-95 continues as NBA superstars Kevin Durant (Oklahoma City Thunder) and John Wall (Washington Wizards) team up to represent the nation's capital against Philadelphia's cast of all-stars on Saturday, October 15 at Calvin Coolidge High School in Washington, D.C. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and the game begins at 6 p.m.

Durant and Wall - who also competed with the Goodman League All-Stars - are less than a month removed from playing with Team DC in a friendly, inner-city exhibition and look to represent the District again alongside Jeff Green (Boston Celtics), Michael Beasley (Minnesota Timberwolves), Nolan Smith (Portland Trailblazers), DeMarcus Cousins (Sacramento Kings) and Greg Monroe (Detroit Pistons).

Wall, Durant and LeBron James also competed in the Chris Paul Charity Basketball Event in North Carolina. The event was hailed as 'The Best Game of the Lockout' by HoopMixTape.com.

Watch and decide.

John Wall, upon being presented with the DC vs Philly opportunity, responded right away with three simple words, “Let’s do it”!

Prior to the game, children 12 years old and younger can enjoy interactive activities, including a mini-camp where participants will experience NBA-level skill instruction from local basketball trainer Hanif Hill. Registration for the camp is $20 (includes game admission) and will begin at 3 p.m. Adults accompanying their children will be required to purchase a game ticket.

Event tickets start at $30 and are available in advance online at http://dcphillytickets.eventbrite.com or at the door on event day.

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to local youth sports programs and recreation centers. For additional ticket information, please email DCPhillytickets@gmail.com.

Live game streaming will be available at http://ilinksports.com.

###

Lockout or not: Basketball Never Stops.

The NBA Lockout Does Funny Things To Players

2011-10-02T21:22:00.023-04:00

It's October and the NBA lockout still looms.

NBA players (who don't get to take their basketball talents to Italy for $2-3 million, or play in various summer leagues) are getting restless.

We find one NBA player (whom you might be all too familiar with) dressing early for Halloween (or something else), and his significant other gives us all the details (thanks to Twitter).

NBA's Gilbert Arenas dressed in a MS looking cop outfit, complete with handcuffs. Hopefully, the ensemble doesn't come outfitted with guns.
Arenas' on-again/off-again girlfriend, Laura Govan, tweeted this (among other things), "OMFG, so when I pull up he's singing, "Mrs. Officer, Mrs Officer!" Upon seeing Arenas in the get up, she also tweets, "Please end the lockout. I can't take another outfit".

NBA and player negotiations continued this weekend with both sides saying they are willing and able to negotiate terms - yet no agreement has been made, so the lockout continues.

Serious NBA players collectively meet the press after another round of negotiations.
Players want to keep 53% share of the league’s basketball-related income. NBA owners don't want players making more money than they already are, want player salaries at capped at 43%.

Here are more tweets that we found interesting on the subject.

**updated Monday, Oct 3, 2011
Blake Griffin voices his opinion
@blakegriffin: First day of training camp finally here can't wait for. Oh what's that NBA owners? You won't let us play? Sorry everybody.

Millionaires arguing with billionaires, while the rest of America is at a 9% unemployment rate.

Skins (Barely) Regain Their Top NFC East Standing

2011-10-02T16:55:00.026-04:00

Beat St. Louis 17-10

Just when you thought Washington would serve up a good ole fashioned beatdown to a winless St. Louis Rams, the team's lead starting slipping away. But like a 'miracle' at Edward Jones Dome the Skins managed to squeak by to get a win on the road, edging out St. Louis, 17-10.

Redskins' Ryan Torain dives in for more yardage against the Rams. He had 135 on the day. (Hightower watch out).
Assisting in the effort was Santana Moss who caught a six yard pass from Grossman in the first quarter. The touchdown was the Redskins’ first first-quarter touchdown of the season. With kicker Graham Gano connecting on a 38-yard field goal, the Skins were on the board first with a 7-0 lead.

Washington seemed to get ahead of themselves in the second half, and encountered a few setbacks. Most noticeably two Grossman interceptions that lead the way for a Rams comeback.

Rams' cornerback Justin King intercepted a Grossman pass at the Rams’ 18 returning it 51 yards in the third quarter to Washington’s 31 before being pushed out of bound by Tim Hightower.

Said Rams' QB Sam Bradford, “There was no doubt when he got that interception I thought we were going to score."

Oddly (or is it?) the Rams would have another opportunity when James Laurinaitis stepped in front of another Grossman pass to return it to the Redskins’ 19 yard line with 5:30 seconds to play.

Those turnovers were costly mistakes for the Skins who could have easily scored more points.

"We're going to consistently work to get better throughout the year" said Skins' quarterback Rex Grossman.

Defensively, Washington held the Rams to 172 yards, seven sacks on Sam Bradford, and a forced fumble by Ryan Kerrigan, (the NFL's rookie defenseman for the month of September).

Running back Ryan Torain rushed for just as many yards as Grossman passed for, with 135. He scored a 20-yard touchdown run, the longest touchdown run of his career, and his first of the season. (Check out one he had on the day,
here).

"He went out there and played like he was possessed", said head coach Mike Shanahan.

Punter Sav Rocca set a season long with a 64-yard punt in the second quarter. Rocca placed three punts inside the 20-yard line, improving his league-leading total to 12.

Washington is holding steady in the NFL standings joining other 3-1 teams like Houston, Tennessee, and New Orleans; however, their old nemesis, putting points on the board, still remains an issue for this team.

The Redskins only had 17 points against a team who hadn't won a game all season. Last week they were pummeled by the Baltimore Ravens, 37-7. With the talent this team has the Skins should have scored more than 17 points.

While St. Louis drops to 4-0 the Skins, who regained the first place ranking in the NFC East with today's win, will have figure out a much better game plan against better coached teams in the National Football League if they want to remain in first place.

Perhaps they can do so during the upcoming bye week, before playing Mike Vick and the Philadelphia Eagles (1-3), a team that is also struggling to respectfully get wins.

Related
Highlights: Redskins v Rams

Highlights: Mike Vick passes for 412 yards in 24-23 loss to San Francisco. Watch. Asks media: "Do you really want me to tell you how I feel right now?"

Good to Note
Today's win marks the 11th time the Redskins have been better than .500 entering the bye, since 1990. The Redskins have never finished with a losing record in seasons in which the team entered the bye with a record above .500.

At Washington Caps Convention: Kids Dougie

2011-10-02T16:27:00.006-04:00

At last weekend's Washington Capitals, Convention fans came out in droves to see their fav Caps players and participate in a full day of Caps' activities.

Speaking of activities, check out the this little girl doing the Dougie.

.

The Caps took on the Blackhawks today winning 4-1 at home. The Caps are 3-3-1 on the preseason. The team opens up the regular season next Saturday (Oct 8) against the Hurricanes.

Sampras, Agassi, Courier, Chang Come To DC!

2011-09-22T12:46:00.002-04:00

A Must See this Friday, September 23rd at Verizon Center.

Air National Guard Hydroplanes - World’s Fastest Racing Boats – To Be Showcased at National Harbor Friday, Sept. 23

2011-09-21T15:05:00.003-04:00

Exhibition Serves as Preview of President’s Cup Set to Return in 2012

Air National Guard Hydroplanes, the world’s fastest racing boats capable of reaching speeds of 200mph, will return to the National Capital region for the first time in more than 30 years to conduct an exhibition (rain or shine).

Expected are Sam Cole, H1 Unlimited Chairman, Captain Rondal Perry, Division Chief, Air National Guard Recruiting Marketing and Resources.

The Air National Guard Hydroplane drivers/teams include:

Scotty Liddycoat - 7 Valken.com

Jeff Bernard - 5 Graham Trucking

J. Michael Kelly - 88 Degree Men

Steve David - 1 Oh Boy! Oberto

Click on links to view exciting race footage:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qq-0376eKwk

http://www.h1unlimited.com/category/multimedia/video/video-gallery/?tubepress_page=11

Event takes place at the National Harbor Marina Pier, 163 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, Md. 20745.