While most football fans likely spent this past weekend in limbo with no games to watch for the first time since early August, the All American Football League was busier than the photographers chasing Tom “The Boot” Brady.
The AAFL, which I’ve blogged about a couple times before (scroll down) and written about a few times (links posted below), spent Jan. 26 conducting its inaugural draft.
Each of the six teams was allowed to “protect” a large group players, mainly ones from that team’s specific region (Team Michigan protected 20), meaning that no other team could select them.
That also meant there was little drama in the draft because the majority of the well-known and top talent was protected. Team Arkansas made former Troy University offensive lineman Zarah Yisrael the No. 1 pick.
While that selection was followed with a couple of former standout signal callers, as Virginia Tech’s Bryan Randall went No. 2 to Team Tennessee and Nebraska Heisman Trophy winner Eric Crouch was taken No. 3 by Team Texas, peering over the draft results (which you can find on the league’s Web site at www.aafl.com) leaves little excitement.
And the AAFL will need every ounce of excitement it can conjure up to get fans interested and survive.
Team Michigan’s first pick was former UCLA quarterback David Koral. The squad also had former University Illinois QB Jon Beutjer protected, along with six former University of Michigan players. (Head back to the AAFL site for Team Michigan’s post-draft roster.)
The team also unveiled a uniform — dark blue with white numbering and a solid gold stripe across the shoulders and under the neck with some red trim. A gold picture of the state (both parts, don’t want to upset any Yoopers adorns the dark blue helmets, which also have a single gold stripe going down the middle.
Team Michigan kicks off its inaugural season April 12 at Tennessee.
Team Florida and former University of Florida QB Chris Leak and Florida State University receiver Peter Warrick will visit Ford Field for Team Michigan's April 19 home opener.
Here are the links I mentioned to my past stories on the AAFL:
http://www.candgnews.com/Homepage-Articles/2007/12-05-07/XS-AAFLUPDATE_horiz.asp
http://www.candgnews.com/Homepage-Articles/2007/9-26-07/XS-LASTCHANCE_vert.asp
http://www.candgnews.com/Homepage-Articles/2007/8-15-07/XS-NEWTEAM.asp
Monday, January 28, 2008
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Early bird gets the ice time
While most hockey fans are still dreaming of owning their very own Don Cherry suit, the Utica High boys squad is lacing up its skates for another of coach Kevin Nye's 5:20 a.m. practices.
In the wee hours of the morning Jan. 17, I pulled into Macomb Suburban Ice Arena for interviews with the Chieftains' players and coaches. As I entered the building at 6 a.m., they were already well into their practice — with smiles on the coaches' faces and no sign of the hour in the players' strides — in a session Nye described as being, "... nice to get out there and skate a little."
I am always impressed by the early morning habits of high school coaches and athletes. Whether it's swimmers, hockey players or any of the athletes who forgo extra hours of sleep for time in the weight room or on the ice, it's just one more sacrifice they make for a game.
I know its cliché to knock the "spoiled" professional athlete, but next time you here millionaires griping about whether or not they're being respected, remember the Chieftains and the countless other local athletes who roll out of bed at 4 a.m. to practice and are just happy to get the ice time.
In the wee hours of the morning Jan. 17, I pulled into Macomb Suburban Ice Arena for interviews with the Chieftains' players and coaches. As I entered the building at 6 a.m., they were already well into their practice — with smiles on the coaches' faces and no sign of the hour in the players' strides — in a session Nye described as being, "... nice to get out there and skate a little."
I am always impressed by the early morning habits of high school coaches and athletes. Whether it's swimmers, hockey players or any of the athletes who forgo extra hours of sleep for time in the weight room or on the ice, it's just one more sacrifice they make for a game.
I know its cliché to knock the "spoiled" professional athlete, but next time you here millionaires griping about whether or not they're being respected, remember the Chieftains and the countless other local athletes who roll out of bed at 4 a.m. to practice and are just happy to get the ice time.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Dusting off the mats
Clawson High wrestling is back, and that’s good news.
I know it wasn’t long ago, 2005 actually, that the Trojans had a team, but truthfully, it’s been 10 years or so since Clawson could boast a program that could come close to fulfilling the 14 weight classes.
This year, the Trojans have 10 athletes on the team, and though four classes are still being voided, it’s a step in the right direction.
Of the 10 wrestlers, four are freshmen, three are sophomores, two are juniors and only one is a senior. With a middle school program already in place, the numbers should only grow.
Adding to the optimism are coaches Terry Downs and Ed Macknis.
After spending some time with these guys, you can tell they’re passionate about the sport, and more importantly, they’re passionate about the school.
Both are Clawson graduates and have seen the program at its best — in the 1980s — when the Trojans could compete with anyone in the state. Both understand the tradition Clawson once had and are determined to bring it back.
As a 1999 graduate, I wish the coaches the best of luck and hope this current crop of wrestlers marks just the beginning. I can honestly say they are all making at least one alumnus proud.
I know it wasn’t long ago, 2005 actually, that the Trojans had a team, but truthfully, it’s been 10 years or so since Clawson could boast a program that could come close to fulfilling the 14 weight classes.
This year, the Trojans have 10 athletes on the team, and though four classes are still being voided, it’s a step in the right direction.
Of the 10 wrestlers, four are freshmen, three are sophomores, two are juniors and only one is a senior. With a middle school program already in place, the numbers should only grow.
Adding to the optimism are coaches Terry Downs and Ed Macknis.
After spending some time with these guys, you can tell they’re passionate about the sport, and more importantly, they’re passionate about the school.
Both are Clawson graduates and have seen the program at its best — in the 1980s — when the Trojans could compete with anyone in the state. Both understand the tradition Clawson once had and are determined to bring it back.
As a 1999 graduate, I wish the coaches the best of luck and hope this current crop of wrestlers marks just the beginning. I can honestly say they are all making at least one alumnus proud.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Rivals will meet and titles will be decided
As the Macomb Area Conference girls basketball season heads into the second half , the competition gets tougher and the implications get more important. Here are a few of the key upcoming showdowns as teams battle to stay at the top of their respective MAC divisions.
St. Clair Shores South Lake at Clinton Township Clintondale, 7 p.m. Jan. 16
These two teams have battled for the MAC Silver title for the past three years. Last year, (2006) Clintondale won it. The year before that, South Lake took the title. Though both teams are struggling a bit this year — the Cavs were 1-1 in league play and the Dragons were 0-2 prior to play Jan. 11 — when they get together, its always a great game.
Grosse Pointe North at Fraser High, 7 p.m. Jan. 18
North and Fraser are the cream of the MAC Red crop this year and have developed a great rivalry. Prior to play Jan. 11, both teams were undefeated in league play. This should be a classic.
Eastpointe East Detroit hosts Roseville High, 7 p.m. Jan. 18
Nothing says Friday night like a crosstown rivalry. While Roseville has three-straight wins over the Shamrocks, Amy Altman's crew is determined to put an end to the streak.
Clinton Township Clintondale at Madison Heights Madison at 7 p.m. Jan. 22
Again, the MAC Silver triangle of Madison-Clintondale-South Lake comes to a head as these two teams duel. Madison's ace, Meesha Nolen, will be a good match for Clintondale's Dionne Washington and Gaby Adams.
Utica Ford II at Clinton Township Chippewa Valley, 7 p.m. Jan. 24
Here you'll see two top guns in action: Ford II's Lea Jones and Chippewa Valley's Claire Cannon. They can both shoot from long range, and the two of them on the same court is worth the price of admission.
St. Clair Shores South Lake at Clinton Township Clintondale, 7 p.m. Jan. 16
These two teams have battled for the MAC Silver title for the past three years. Last year, (2006) Clintondale won it. The year before that, South Lake took the title. Though both teams are struggling a bit this year — the Cavs were 1-1 in league play and the Dragons were 0-2 prior to play Jan. 11 — when they get together, its always a great game.
Grosse Pointe North at Fraser High, 7 p.m. Jan. 18
North and Fraser are the cream of the MAC Red crop this year and have developed a great rivalry. Prior to play Jan. 11, both teams were undefeated in league play. This should be a classic.
Eastpointe East Detroit hosts Roseville High, 7 p.m. Jan. 18
Nothing says Friday night like a crosstown rivalry. While Roseville has three-straight wins over the Shamrocks, Amy Altman's crew is determined to put an end to the streak.
Clinton Township Clintondale at Madison Heights Madison at 7 p.m. Jan. 22
Again, the MAC Silver triangle of Madison-Clintondale-South Lake comes to a head as these two teams duel. Madison's ace, Meesha Nolen, will be a good match for Clintondale's Dionne Washington and Gaby Adams.
Utica Ford II at Clinton Township Chippewa Valley, 7 p.m. Jan. 24
Here you'll see two top guns in action: Ford II's Lea Jones and Chippewa Valley's Claire Cannon. They can both shoot from long range, and the two of them on the same court is worth the price of admission.
Monday, January 7, 2008
Rivalry week sets up marquee boys hoops games
Hoops fans slowly emerging from their holiday hibernation may want to avert their eyes in the upcoming week. Rivalry games and key division clashes highlight what should make for a bright spot on the varsity boys basketball schedule.
Wednesday, Jan. 9
Harrison Township L’Anse Creuse at Romeo High, 7 p.m.
Few people outside of L’Anse Creuse expected the Lancers to be sitting atop the MAC Red instead of the Bulldogs. The dynamic duo of Nick Carreri and Willie Cruz can add more believers to the Lancers bandwagon if they win at Romeo to remain unbeaten in the division.
Lake Shore at Lakeview, 7 p.m. A half a game and a little more than two miles separate these St. Clair Shores intracity rivals as they face off in this MAC Silver showdown.
Fair Haven Anchor Bay at Warren Fitzgerald, 7 p.m. A little more than 30 miles separate these schools, but the Tars and Spartans sit tied for second place a half game behind Roseville High in the MAC Blue. This contest should be pivotal when it comes to crowning a champion in a division crowded with contenders. Roseville visits Anchor Bay Jan. 11.
Warren Lincoln at Mt. Clemens High, 7:30 p.m. If the Abes and Bathers want to keep pace with MAC Gold Division leader Madison High Madison, they can’t afford to get tripped up by each other. Oh, and it’s possible that the memories of Lincoln ending Mt. Clemens’ season in the district final last year may come into play.
Thursday, Jan. 10
Mt. Clemens at Macomb Lutheran North, 7 p.m. The Bathers will be tested in the post by the Mustangs in this non-conference clash, which comes a day after racing up and down the court with Lincoln. The contrasting styles should prepare Mt. Clemens for another tough test on Jan. 15, when the Bathers travel to Beverly Hills Detroit Country Day.
Friday, Jan. 11
Macomb Dakota at Clinton Township Chippewa Valley, 7 p.m. The Cougars knocked the Big Reds out of the playoffs the past two years. The Big Reds knocked the Cougars out of the playoffs the two seasons before that. The MAC Red foes are again scheduled in the same district this year and could again face off in the postseason for a third-game rubber match. Better get to this one early if you want a (ring)side seat for round one.
East Detroit at South Lake, 7 p.m. Last year the Shamrocks and Cavaliers ended up sharing the MAC Blue crown. Nobody likes to share, especially heated rivals.
Grosse Pointe North at Grosse Pointe South, 7 p.m. Fans of this rivalry will be treated to an extra helping this year. Although the Norsemen compete in the MAC Red and the Blue Devils play in the MAC White, these squads will square off twice, with the second meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. Feb. 15 at North. But first things first, and a win over a rival could be just the boost these squads need after slow starts in their respective divisions.
Warren De La Salle at Birmingham Brother Rice, 7:30 p.m. The young Pilots may not have a single senior on their roster, but no one needs to remind them that beating the Warriors is a big deal.
Tuesday, Jan. 15
Lutheran North at Harper Woods High, 7 p.m. The Mustangs emerged with the Metro Conference title last season, ending a three-year reign by the Pioneers. Don’t think Harper Woods has forgotten.
Center Line High at Warren Lincoln, 7:30 p.m. Old foes meet in a MAC crossover in what could be a postseason preview. The Panthers began the week sitting atop the MAC Silver with a 4-0 division mark and were 6-1 overall.
Wednesday, Jan. 9
Harrison Township L’Anse Creuse at Romeo High, 7 p.m.
Few people outside of L’Anse Creuse expected the Lancers to be sitting atop the MAC Red instead of the Bulldogs. The dynamic duo of Nick Carreri and Willie Cruz can add more believers to the Lancers bandwagon if they win at Romeo to remain unbeaten in the division.
Lake Shore at Lakeview, 7 p.m. A half a game and a little more than two miles separate these St. Clair Shores intracity rivals as they face off in this MAC Silver showdown.
Fair Haven Anchor Bay at Warren Fitzgerald, 7 p.m. A little more than 30 miles separate these schools, but the Tars and Spartans sit tied for second place a half game behind Roseville High in the MAC Blue. This contest should be pivotal when it comes to crowning a champion in a division crowded with contenders. Roseville visits Anchor Bay Jan. 11.
Warren Lincoln at Mt. Clemens High, 7:30 p.m. If the Abes and Bathers want to keep pace with MAC Gold Division leader Madison High Madison, they can’t afford to get tripped up by each other. Oh, and it’s possible that the memories of Lincoln ending Mt. Clemens’ season in the district final last year may come into play.
Thursday, Jan. 10
Mt. Clemens at Macomb Lutheran North, 7 p.m. The Bathers will be tested in the post by the Mustangs in this non-conference clash, which comes a day after racing up and down the court with Lincoln. The contrasting styles should prepare Mt. Clemens for another tough test on Jan. 15, when the Bathers travel to Beverly Hills Detroit Country Day.
Friday, Jan. 11
Macomb Dakota at Clinton Township Chippewa Valley, 7 p.m. The Cougars knocked the Big Reds out of the playoffs the past two years. The Big Reds knocked the Cougars out of the playoffs the two seasons before that. The MAC Red foes are again scheduled in the same district this year and could again face off in the postseason for a third-game rubber match. Better get to this one early if you want a (ring)side seat for round one.
East Detroit at South Lake, 7 p.m. Last year the Shamrocks and Cavaliers ended up sharing the MAC Blue crown. Nobody likes to share, especially heated rivals.
Grosse Pointe North at Grosse Pointe South, 7 p.m. Fans of this rivalry will be treated to an extra helping this year. Although the Norsemen compete in the MAC Red and the Blue Devils play in the MAC White, these squads will square off twice, with the second meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. Feb. 15 at North. But first things first, and a win over a rival could be just the boost these squads need after slow starts in their respective divisions.
Warren De La Salle at Birmingham Brother Rice, 7:30 p.m. The young Pilots may not have a single senior on their roster, but no one needs to remind them that beating the Warriors is a big deal.
Tuesday, Jan. 15
Lutheran North at Harper Woods High, 7 p.m. The Mustangs emerged with the Metro Conference title last season, ending a three-year reign by the Pioneers. Don’t think Harper Woods has forgotten.
Center Line High at Warren Lincoln, 7:30 p.m. Old foes meet in a MAC crossover in what could be a postseason preview. The Panthers began the week sitting atop the MAC Silver with a 4-0 division mark and were 6-1 overall.
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