The High School for Math, Science, and Engineering girls’ softball team battled an inconsistent schedule to earn a playoff appearance in the 2017 season. The team relied on contributions from all players to navigate their cancellations and make the postseason.
This year the Dragons had six games postponed due to rain issues. The constant inclement weather forced the team to play games on an erratic schedule. During a 19-day span they managed to only play one game; however, coach Crystal Downey viewed the cancellations as a chance for the team to work on their skills.
“We believed that the rainouts were an opportunity to have extra practice,” Downey said. “We used [the postponements] to our advantage.”
Despite all the changes, the Dragons were still able to return to the playoffs after winning the PSAL B League Championship in 2016. The Dragons went 8-6 and placed third in their division. The team had to reposition and move around the players to where they fit best on the field after losing some key starters like Taylor Faulds and Hillary Rodriguez. Captain and pitcher Annabelle Shultz attributed the team’s success to sticking together as a unit and playing as a whole.
“Because we’ve been practicing so much we all bonded together,” Shultz said. “Even though all the rain did mess up our schedule, we still remained a team so we played very well together.”
With the Dragons playing as infrequently as they were scheduled, they had to depend on a strong core to keep the team’s energy up. Nine of the 15 players that were on the roster were first year players, so they had to rely on guidance from the experienced veterans. Shultz was able to ascend into that role and provide the necessary leadership to propel the team into the playoffs.
“I just understood that even though things might not go your way you have to remain positive,” Shultz said. “Keep your team up and that’s all what it’s about, just spirit.”
While the Dragons lost their first round playoff game, the adversity they battled during the season made this year a success. They were able to bring a team that consisted of nine first year players and still advanced to the postseason despite losing key players from last year and an unpredictable schedule.
- Contributing author - Gabriel Cuilan
Tuesday, June 6, 2017
Monday, June 5, 2017
HSMSE Sports Podcast: NBA Finals Talk and Predicitions
With the Golden State Warriors up 2-0 on the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2017 NBA Finals, the HSMSE Sports Journalism class discusses in this podcast the fortunes of both the Warriors and Cavaliers as the series heads to Cleveland.
Wednesday, May 31, 2017
HSMSE boys’ baseball team flourishing without star pitcher
Injuries are an unfortunate, yet common part of athletics. Sports teams constantly presented with injuries are forced to adjust without their key players. The High School for Math, Science, and Engineering boys’ baseball team was not excused from the proverbial injury bug this year. Their top pitcher, junior JJ Katzman, went down with a right arm injury; however, with the pitching of veteran seniors and rising freshman, the team rallied to win its first playoff game in school history.
Katzman’s injury was a result of fatigue and arm discomfort that prohibited him from taking the mound for the majority of the season. Coach David Schieman was forced to place him in centerfield for the rest of the season, as he was unable to pitch.
“My arm isn’t fully strained so I can play most games,” Katzman said. “However, I still cannot throw at full strength. It can be frustrating sometimes, but I’m working through it.”
In addition to his fielding, Katzman was also limited in the batter’s box. Prior to the injury, he had the one of the highest batting averages on the team. Due to the injury, his bat speed became much slower than normal.
“My swing is a bit weaker than usual because I'm not able to use all of my muscles as some tendons are stressed,” Katzman admitted. “But, I'm still able to make solid contact and get on base, so I tend not to worry about it.”
In Katzman’s absence on the mound, the rest of the team’s pitchers have carried the load. Coach Schieman is very impressed at how the team has performed without Katzman pitching. He credits the team for not missing a beat and playing hard throughout every game.
“I think the team has performed very well considering the circumstances,” Schieman said. "The injury to JJ was a tough blow. He’s got a great arm and great understanding of the game. Adam [Greenberg] and Maxwell [Hines] picked up the pitching load along with Tej [Telymonde]. It was great to see us still win games.”
Coach’s decision to spread out the pitching rotation paid imminent dividends. Four-year veteran Hines has a 1.16 ERA in over 12 innings pitched this season. Greenberg, another four-year veteran, has a perfect 7-0 record with an ERA below 1.00.
The freshman Telymonde has not given up a run in his nine innings on the mound, and his play has given the team optimism about next year. Katzman will also be able to return to the mound next season, as a rising senior. He is focused on getting his arm back to full strength and dedicating his free time to making a full recovery.
“I plan to strengthen my arm's injured area as well as my shoulder and tricep over the summer so I can make up for my current weakness,” Katzman said. “Currently I continue to ice after every game and rest my arm as much as possible when I'm not playing in a game.”
While Katzman will be ready to pitch next spring, he still has high expectations for the team this year. Along with Coach Schieman, he is confident in his teammates’ ability to produce on the field and on the scoreboard.
“Baseball is a team sport so if one man goes down everyone else will fill the void.” Katzman said. “I am extremely satisfied in how the team has played with and without me. It shows how deep we are as a ballclub.”
The team finished with a 10-6 record, four of those wins coming with Katzman on the mound. With the 12th seed, they defeated Ice High School 3-1 at Randall’s Island, with Greenberg pitching another great game. Nevertheless, Katzman is certain that a second round berth is not the ceiling for this team.
“I think this team is capable of winning it all,” Katzman declared. “We just need to be intense from the first pitch to the last pitch of the playoffs, My injury shouldn't be an reason for our great team to lose. We are a championship team, regardless of whether or not I’m pitching.”
Katzman’s injury was a result of fatigue and arm discomfort that prohibited him from taking the mound for the majority of the season. Coach David Schieman was forced to place him in centerfield for the rest of the season, as he was unable to pitch.
“My arm isn’t fully strained so I can play most games,” Katzman said. “However, I still cannot throw at full strength. It can be frustrating sometimes, but I’m working through it.”
In addition to his fielding, Katzman was also limited in the batter’s box. Prior to the injury, he had the one of the highest batting averages on the team. Due to the injury, his bat speed became much slower than normal.
“My swing is a bit weaker than usual because I'm not able to use all of my muscles as some tendons are stressed,” Katzman admitted. “But, I'm still able to make solid contact and get on base, so I tend not to worry about it.”
In Katzman’s absence on the mound, the rest of the team’s pitchers have carried the load. Coach Schieman is very impressed at how the team has performed without Katzman pitching. He credits the team for not missing a beat and playing hard throughout every game.
“I think the team has performed very well considering the circumstances,” Schieman said. "The injury to JJ was a tough blow. He’s got a great arm and great understanding of the game. Adam [Greenberg] and Maxwell [Hines] picked up the pitching load along with Tej [Telymonde]. It was great to see us still win games.”
Coach’s decision to spread out the pitching rotation paid imminent dividends. Four-year veteran Hines has a 1.16 ERA in over 12 innings pitched this season. Greenberg, another four-year veteran, has a perfect 7-0 record with an ERA below 1.00.
The freshman Telymonde has not given up a run in his nine innings on the mound, and his play has given the team optimism about next year. Katzman will also be able to return to the mound next season, as a rising senior. He is focused on getting his arm back to full strength and dedicating his free time to making a full recovery.
“I plan to strengthen my arm's injured area as well as my shoulder and tricep over the summer so I can make up for my current weakness,” Katzman said. “Currently I continue to ice after every game and rest my arm as much as possible when I'm not playing in a game.”
While Katzman will be ready to pitch next spring, he still has high expectations for the team this year. Along with Coach Schieman, he is confident in his teammates’ ability to produce on the field and on the scoreboard.
“Baseball is a team sport so if one man goes down everyone else will fill the void.” Katzman said. “I am extremely satisfied in how the team has played with and without me. It shows how deep we are as a ballclub.”
The team finished with a 10-6 record, four of those wins coming with Katzman on the mound. With the 12th seed, they defeated Ice High School 3-1 at Randall’s Island, with Greenberg pitching another great game. Nevertheless, Katzman is certain that a second round berth is not the ceiling for this team.
“I think this team is capable of winning it all,” Katzman declared. “We just need to be intense from the first pitch to the last pitch of the playoffs, My injury shouldn't be an reason for our great team to lose. We are a championship team, regardless of whether or not I’m pitching.”
Boys' volleyball: Dragons reach a historic height
The HSMSE boys' varsity volleyball team battled to an eight and two record to make the playoffs this year. Their success was attributed to their growth as team, especially by their seniors.
Four-year players Yussef Elbagory, Will Esseks, and Isaac Draper have been leaders and “go to” players on the court this season. Their experience helped the team focus on higher level tactics and add more variety to their gameplay because they were able to lead and coordinate the team on the court.
“Isaac, Will, and Yussef all improved in terms of consistency and confidence in games,” coach Nick Diunte said.
This improvement in confidence allowed Esseks, Elbagory, and Draper to be leaders on the court and in practice. Draper's setting led the league in assists. His ability to set up plays is critical to the team’s success and without him their road to the playoffs likely would have been much more troublesome than it was.
Many players also made significant improvements in individual skills such as passing and attacking over the offseason. Both his teammates and his coach applauded Damar Mercado-Hastings for improving his swing and approach to hitting since last year.
“Damar improved his swing and got more kills," senior Samson Lin said. "[He] improved in [his] blocks and digging.”
Developing game-like situations during practice helped the team create a positive attitude going into games and reading their opponents. Practice was an essential factor for not only their improvement on the court, but also for their mentality as a team.
“Always just creating competitive situations in practice helps with games and having a group of guys that always want to be on the floor and compete towards playing time," Diunte said. "I think having that atmosphere in practice turned over into the games.”
Their efforts during practice shined on the court as they worked together to read and adjust to their opponents more efficiently than ever before. The team was able to communicate on both offense and defense to implement new plays and control the pace of the game. Their competitive atmosphere during practice also helped the team create stronger relationships with one another and bond during tough games and losses.
“[We] grew a lot as a team in terms of the ability to handle adversity and go forward from it together and come out ahead,” Diunte said.
The Dragons only lost two games, both to Stuyvesant, but they still came together after games, practice, and even during their free time to work on their flaws.
“Coming together after a tough loss and seeing what we need to work on after each game was a team building experience this year,” Lin said.
By: Charles Dicus and Armani Damiron
Four-year players Yussef Elbagory, Will Esseks, and Isaac Draper have been leaders and “go to” players on the court this season. Their experience helped the team focus on higher level tactics and add more variety to their gameplay because they were able to lead and coordinate the team on the court.
“Isaac, Will, and Yussef all improved in terms of consistency and confidence in games,” coach Nick Diunte said.
This improvement in confidence allowed Esseks, Elbagory, and Draper to be leaders on the court and in practice. Draper's setting led the league in assists. His ability to set up plays is critical to the team’s success and without him their road to the playoffs likely would have been much more troublesome than it was.
Many players also made significant improvements in individual skills such as passing and attacking over the offseason. Both his teammates and his coach applauded Damar Mercado-Hastings for improving his swing and approach to hitting since last year.
“Damar improved his swing and got more kills," senior Samson Lin said. "[He] improved in [his] blocks and digging.”
Developing game-like situations during practice helped the team create a positive attitude going into games and reading their opponents. Practice was an essential factor for not only their improvement on the court, but also for their mentality as a team.
“Always just creating competitive situations in practice helps with games and having a group of guys that always want to be on the floor and compete towards playing time," Diunte said. "I think having that atmosphere in practice turned over into the games.”
Their efforts during practice shined on the court as they worked together to read and adjust to their opponents more efficiently than ever before. The team was able to communicate on both offense and defense to implement new plays and control the pace of the game. Their competitive atmosphere during practice also helped the team create stronger relationships with one another and bond during tough games and losses.
“[We] grew a lot as a team in terms of the ability to handle adversity and go forward from it together and come out ahead,” Diunte said.
The Dragons only lost two games, both to Stuyvesant, but they still came together after games, practice, and even during their free time to work on their flaws.
“Coming together after a tough loss and seeing what we need to work on after each game was a team building experience this year,” Lin said.
By: Charles Dicus and Armani Damiron
HSMSE sends most qualifiers for city track championships in school history
HSMSE’s Boys Outdoor Track team had six qualifiers for the first time in school history for the City Championships that took place on May 28th. These six qualifiers have shown the diversity of the strengths of the track team.
There were three qualifiers in the pole vault event. Juniors Bryan Medina, Brandon Fajardo, and sophomore Owen Gao all made the cut for the championships. Coach Henning’s rigorous training and athletic development of these qualifiers has allowed for such a feat to be possible this spring season. The past seniors mentoring allowed city qualifiers such as Medina to improve tremendously.
“I continually and consistently go to practice and [give] my all during each practice, research, and ask more experienced sprinters for advice,” Medina said in a 2017 interview. “My fellow pole vaulters including Michael Proudnikov, a now graduated pole vaulter, were a big help in improving my skills and helping me persevere during long practices.”
The help the teammates provided each other was pivotal to the success of these different qualifiers. This support was evident to coach Henning as he watched the athletes mature.
“I think the natural progression in any athletic program, you will have people who were successful one year, who help inspire, teach and encourage the younger athletes,” Henning said. “Those younger athletes become older, they inspire others. So each year, we have had more and more experienced people and therefore more qualifiers.”
Henning also referred to Proudnikov as good example of mature athletes assisting their teammates in practice. Henning attributed him as one of the major factors in improving for the pole vaulters improvement.
“For example, Michael Proudnikov was the one pole vaulter we had last year,” Henning said. “He taught four other guys, and now we have more three qualifiers in the pole vaulting event.”
The two other events the track team qualified for was the high jump event and the 110 meter hurdles event. Both Miles Greenblatt and Danny Gong qualified for the high jump, and senior Bin Zhang qualified for the 110 meter hurdles.
Zhang has been running the 110 meter hurdles for three years. He is a perfect example of hard work culminating in a rewarding fashion, as he qualified for the City Championships in his final season. He attributes his accomplishment to the assistance he has received from fellow runners throughout the four years.
“The major factor was friends,” he said, “they pushed me to push myself at every given chance. One specific friend was Anand [Karmaker] who always stayed by my side; he pushed me to go to gym and that allowed me to push my limits.”
Fajardo was the only qualifier that won a medal. Fajardo came in 5th for the pole vault event, vaulting at a height of 11 feet. Henning described the field as very harsh due to the disadvantages of being in a small school without as many resources as other schools.
“We are competing different schools who have track in their back, with bigger teams, and more coaches, so it’s a tough competition,” Henning said.
Authored by Erick Romero and Anamul Hoque
There were three qualifiers in the pole vault event. Juniors Bryan Medina, Brandon Fajardo, and sophomore Owen Gao all made the cut for the championships. Coach Henning’s rigorous training and athletic development of these qualifiers has allowed for such a feat to be possible this spring season. The past seniors mentoring allowed city qualifiers such as Medina to improve tremendously.
“I continually and consistently go to practice and [give] my all during each practice, research, and ask more experienced sprinters for advice,” Medina said in a 2017 interview. “My fellow pole vaulters including Michael Proudnikov, a now graduated pole vaulter, were a big help in improving my skills and helping me persevere during long practices.”
The help the teammates provided each other was pivotal to the success of these different qualifiers. This support was evident to coach Henning as he watched the athletes mature.
“I think the natural progression in any athletic program, you will have people who were successful one year, who help inspire, teach and encourage the younger athletes,” Henning said. “Those younger athletes become older, they inspire others. So each year, we have had more and more experienced people and therefore more qualifiers.”
Henning also referred to Proudnikov as good example of mature athletes assisting their teammates in practice. Henning attributed him as one of the major factors in improving for the pole vaulters improvement.
“For example, Michael Proudnikov was the one pole vaulter we had last year,” Henning said. “He taught four other guys, and now we have more three qualifiers in the pole vaulting event.”
The two other events the track team qualified for was the high jump event and the 110 meter hurdles event. Both Miles Greenblatt and Danny Gong qualified for the high jump, and senior Bin Zhang qualified for the 110 meter hurdles.
Zhang has been running the 110 meter hurdles for three years. He is a perfect example of hard work culminating in a rewarding fashion, as he qualified for the City Championships in his final season. He attributes his accomplishment to the assistance he has received from fellow runners throughout the four years.
“The major factor was friends,” he said, “they pushed me to push myself at every given chance. One specific friend was Anand [Karmaker] who always stayed by my side; he pushed me to go to gym and that allowed me to push my limits.”
Fajardo was the only qualifier that won a medal. Fajardo came in 5th for the pole vault event, vaulting at a height of 11 feet. Henning described the field as very harsh due to the disadvantages of being in a small school without as many resources as other schools.
“We are competing different schools who have track in their back, with bigger teams, and more coaches, so it’s a tough competition,” Henning said.
Authored by Erick Romero and Anamul Hoque
Tuesday, May 16, 2017
Sports networks develop apps to allow mobile streaming
Over the past few years, cable companies and sports networks have agreed to contracts that allow people to stream their channels from their smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices. The streaming service benefits the user, the cable company, and the sports network.
Since the smartphone has become popular over the last decade, people all over the world have become more demanding of instant access to news. Social media has become a part of daily life for many, with websites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram drawing millions of users per day. As the amount of information that users can retrieve from their phone increased, so has the desire for people to watch television on their devices.
The business of video streaming has become an immensely rich industry over the past few years. Since the beginning of 2012, the revenue has more than doubled, as people are eager to watch their favorite television shows right from their phones. Sports fans desired the same ability to watch their teams from their mobile devices.
To accommodate its fans’ wishes, ESPN launched WatchESPN in April 2011, an app that allows viewers to watch ESPN networks on an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, as long as they have a subscription to a cable company that carries ESPN. Executive vice president of sales and marketing for ESPN Sean Bratches attributed the service to the demands of the consumer.
“We strive to serve the sports fan wherever they consume sports,” Bratches said in a 2011 ESPN press statement. “I can’t think of a better way to do that than making our networks available to fans whenever and wherever they might be.”
With ESPN launching a service that allowed users to stream their channels on their mobile devices, they gained an advantage over other sports networks because people could now instantly access ESPN’s content. To regain an edge other networks developed their own mobile apps that allowed on-the-go streaming. FOX Sports invented their own app allowing users to watch sporting events that are on FOX, FS1, and the FOX sports network that is in the region of the viewer. While FOX Sports saw a decline in the viewership in Super Bowl LI than in years past, many more people streamed the game from the app than in previous Super Bowls.
“[FOX Sports Go] averaged 1.72 million viewers per minute for New England’s 34-28 win,” said Taylor Soper in a 2017 article for Geekwire. “Last year, an average of 1.4 million viewers per minute streamed the Super Bowl.”
Broadcasting sporting events from mobile devices has benefits for all parties involved: the streamer, the sports network, and the cable company. Streamers do not need to rely on a TV to watch a sporting event. Sports networks now have another outlet for viewership, which makes its advertisements more valuable, as more people are able to see them. These sports networks still require a potential streamer to have a cable subscription that carries their channels. Cable companies may even gain subscribers from people who wish to watch sporting events on the go. As the demand for instant media access increases, streaming services will continue to grow and benefit all parties involved.
By Bruce Mayfield and Michael Stern
Since the smartphone has become popular over the last decade, people all over the world have become more demanding of instant access to news. Social media has become a part of daily life for many, with websites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram drawing millions of users per day. As the amount of information that users can retrieve from their phone increased, so has the desire for people to watch television on their devices.
 |
| Growth of video streaming / Business Insider |
To accommodate its fans’ wishes, ESPN launched WatchESPN in April 2011, an app that allows viewers to watch ESPN networks on an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, as long as they have a subscription to a cable company that carries ESPN. Executive vice president of sales and marketing for ESPN Sean Bratches attributed the service to the demands of the consumer.
“We strive to serve the sports fan wherever they consume sports,” Bratches said in a 2011 ESPN press statement. “I can’t think of a better way to do that than making our networks available to fans whenever and wherever they might be.”
With ESPN launching a service that allowed users to stream their channels on their mobile devices, they gained an advantage over other sports networks because people could now instantly access ESPN’s content. To regain an edge other networks developed their own mobile apps that allowed on-the-go streaming. FOX Sports invented their own app allowing users to watch sporting events that are on FOX, FS1, and the FOX sports network that is in the region of the viewer. While FOX Sports saw a decline in the viewership in Super Bowl LI than in years past, many more people streamed the game from the app than in previous Super Bowls.
“[FOX Sports Go] averaged 1.72 million viewers per minute for New England’s 34-28 win,” said Taylor Soper in a 2017 article for Geekwire. “Last year, an average of 1.4 million viewers per minute streamed the Super Bowl.”
Broadcasting sporting events from mobile devices has benefits for all parties involved: the streamer, the sports network, and the cable company. Streamers do not need to rely on a TV to watch a sporting event. Sports networks now have another outlet for viewership, which makes its advertisements more valuable, as more people are able to see them. These sports networks still require a potential streamer to have a cable subscription that carries their channels. Cable companies may even gain subscribers from people who wish to watch sporting events on the go. As the demand for instant media access increases, streaming services will continue to grow and benefit all parties involved.
By Bruce Mayfield and Michael Stern
Illegal streaming detracts from WWE revenue
The WWE network is home to over 5000 hours of wrestling content, both past and present. However, numerous claims of illegal streaming of their content has hindered their growth over the past three years.
“During the past year, we continued to successfully execute our content strategy, which resulted in significant operational achievements and generated record revenue” McMahon said. “The increased engagement with our brands across multiple platforms provides a foundation for achieving our 2017 and long-term financial objectives.”
While these reports portray the successful year that the WWE had, doesn’t explain the steady decline in television ratings. In 2016, the average ratings for RAW and Smackdown were 2.26 million and 1.72 million viewers respectively. This is a direct correlation of fans turning their back on the product that could be perceived as lackluster of late. TWM news referred to this perception of the poor product as a cause of more illegal streaming.
“Since the introduction of the WWE Network, the rise of illegal streaming particularly for WWE events has increased,” the author stated. “Some fans are choosing to find an illegal stream ... for free. This same theory applies to weekly episodes of Raw & SmackDown.”
Fans have the unfair misconception that poor ratings are equivalent to poor show quality. However, the argument can be made that the low ratings is due to more accessibility. We live in the golden age of the internet, where everything and everyone is connected online. Furthermore, with the growing amount of opportunities for different devices that allow streaming, the television viewership will be affected by the illegal streaming. Instead of watching three hours of Raw every week, fans can save time and energy by downloading the stream and watching it at a different time.
WWE has been a global phenomenon for over 60 years. It continues to be successful through the creation of the network. The continued usage of illegal streaming has hurt the ratings for Raw and Smackdown, which diminishes the display of growth for their product. The solution for this is unclear, but until then, fans should just watch the product themselves to successfully create an opinion, instead of reading the ratings results.
Authored by Arik Armstead and Mohammed Kabir
The network currently has over 1.9 million subscribers, good enough for fifth on the global network scale. Therefore, it would be reasonable to say that since its inception in 2014, WWE viewer growth has increased exponentially. The quarterly reports of 2016 support those assertions, as WWE announced a strong fourth quarter with record revenue and internet engagements. In a 2016 interview with WWE CEO Vince McMahon by businesswire.com, he elaborated on the great year his corporation had.Tonight's #SDLive emanates from @savemartcenter in Fresno, where @DaveBautista won his FIRST #RoyalRumble in 2005! https://t.co/i6hoHIqxyK— WWE Network (@WWENetwork) May 2, 2017
“During the past year, we continued to successfully execute our content strategy, which resulted in significant operational achievements and generated record revenue” McMahon said. “The increased engagement with our brands across multiple platforms provides a foundation for achieving our 2017 and long-term financial objectives.”
While these reports portray the successful year that the WWE had, doesn’t explain the steady decline in television ratings. In 2016, the average ratings for RAW and Smackdown were 2.26 million and 1.72 million viewers respectively. This is a direct correlation of fans turning their back on the product that could be perceived as lackluster of late. TWM news referred to this perception of the poor product as a cause of more illegal streaming.
“Since the introduction of the WWE Network, the rise of illegal streaming particularly for WWE events has increased,” the author stated. “Some fans are choosing to find an illegal stream ... for free. This same theory applies to weekly episodes of Raw & SmackDown.”
Fans have the unfair misconception that poor ratings are equivalent to poor show quality. However, the argument can be made that the low ratings is due to more accessibility. We live in the golden age of the internet, where everything and everyone is connected online. Furthermore, with the growing amount of opportunities for different devices that allow streaming, the television viewership will be affected by the illegal streaming. Instead of watching three hours of Raw every week, fans can save time and energy by downloading the stream and watching it at a different time.
WWE has been a global phenomenon for over 60 years. It continues to be successful through the creation of the network. The continued usage of illegal streaming has hurt the ratings for Raw and Smackdown, which diminishes the display of growth for their product. The solution for this is unclear, but until then, fans should just watch the product themselves to successfully create an opinion, instead of reading the ratings results.
Authored by Arik Armstead and Mohammed Kabir
English Premier League ignites debate among soccer fans and pundits over their blackout policy
The English Premier League has been blacking out soccer games that kick off between 2:45 and 5:15 GMT in Great Britain. The blackout policy has existed since the 1960s when Burnley chairmen Bob Lord feared that fans would rather stay home and watch the “big” games such as Manchester United vs Liverpool than support their local club. As a result, only 154 games out of 380 games can be watched live in a EPL season.
In recent years, the debate about whether or not the EPL should uphold their blackout policy has been raging. In a poll held by British newspaper The Telegraph, 92% of fans were found to be for the cancellation of the current blackout policy.
Telegraph editor Luke Edwards argues that British fans should have the ability to watch live football matches at places other than pubs on Saturdays. Edwards claims that the EPL has already violated many of the old traditions held by fans, and that the tradition of being able to go to the pubs to watch live matches should be protected.
“If there is one final tradition worth protecting in English football,” Edwards wrote in an article in 2015. “It is the fact you can only watch a live game of football at 3pm on a Saturday if you take the trouble to get off your backside and leave the house for somewhere other than the pub.”
Edwards also argues that fans should have the option to watch the big match ups live at will. He believes that fans especially should have the option since they already pay television subscription.
“Why bother taking the family to watch your local team play when you can stay at home and watch Chelsea vs West Ham all for the price of the television subscription you already pay,” he said.
Telegraph editor Chris Bascombe has other opinions in mind, as he contends that the EPL blackout policy barely affects the fan’s ability to watch the games. Bascombe argues that even though the blackout policy stands, fans will always find a way to view the big matchups.
“It doesn’t matter how much it is forbidden, supporters are still finding a way to indulge. Instead of making it illegal it would make more sense to regulate it,” Bascombe said.
Bascombe claims that most English fans will usually go to pubs on the big matchup days and in that manner, watch the Saturday matchups.
“Walk around most cities on a matchday and numerous pubs will quite openly advertise live football at 3pm, much to the Premier League’s irritation,” he said.
Previously mentioned, the blackout policy was previously put in place in order to improve attendance for local teams. BostiInno writer Hayden Bird from says otherwise. Bird claims that the blackout policy has had absolutely no effect on attendance for local teams.
“Of course, whether or not the blackout rule actually does prop up attendance for local teams is debatable," Bird wrote in a 2015 BostiInno article. “Looking across at the German Bundesliga, attendance has actually climbed in the last 15 years, even though games are broadcast at all times.”
Football is considered to be the biggest national pastime in Great Britain. The debate of whether or not this blackout policy should be upheld is still a contentious issue. There seems to be no resolution for the fans in a near future. However as Bascombe said, there will always be a way for fans to indulge in “The Beautiful Game.”
Authored by Erick Romero, Andre Alexander
In recent years, the debate about whether or not the EPL should uphold their blackout policy has been raging. In a poll held by British newspaper The Telegraph, 92% of fans were found to be for the cancellation of the current blackout policy.
Telegraph editor Luke Edwards argues that British fans should have the ability to watch live football matches at places other than pubs on Saturdays. Edwards claims that the EPL has already violated many of the old traditions held by fans, and that the tradition of being able to go to the pubs to watch live matches should be protected.
“If there is one final tradition worth protecting in English football,” Edwards wrote in an article in 2015. “It is the fact you can only watch a live game of football at 3pm on a Saturday if you take the trouble to get off your backside and leave the house for somewhere other than the pub.”
Edwards also argues that fans should have the option to watch the big match ups live at will. He believes that fans especially should have the option since they already pay television subscription.
“Why bother taking the family to watch your local team play when you can stay at home and watch Chelsea vs West Ham all for the price of the television subscription you already pay,” he said.
Telegraph editor Chris Bascombe has other opinions in mind, as he contends that the EPL blackout policy barely affects the fan’s ability to watch the games. Bascombe argues that even though the blackout policy stands, fans will always find a way to view the big matchups.
“It doesn’t matter how much it is forbidden, supporters are still finding a way to indulge. Instead of making it illegal it would make more sense to regulate it,” Bascombe said.
Bascombe claims that most English fans will usually go to pubs on the big matchup days and in that manner, watch the Saturday matchups.
“Walk around most cities on a matchday and numerous pubs will quite openly advertise live football at 3pm, much to the Premier League’s irritation,” he said.
Previously mentioned, the blackout policy was previously put in place in order to improve attendance for local teams. BostiInno writer Hayden Bird from says otherwise. Bird claims that the blackout policy has had absolutely no effect on attendance for local teams.
“Of course, whether or not the blackout rule actually does prop up attendance for local teams is debatable," Bird wrote in a 2015 BostiInno article. “Looking across at the German Bundesliga, attendance has actually climbed in the last 15 years, even though games are broadcast at all times.”
Football is considered to be the biggest national pastime in Great Britain. The debate of whether or not this blackout policy should be upheld is still a contentious issue. There seems to be no resolution for the fans in a near future. However as Bascombe said, there will always be a way for fans to indulge in “The Beautiful Game.”
Authored by Erick Romero, Andre Alexander
NBA League Pass: Average service for a premium price
The NBA League Pass has created a new medium for fans to view NBA games, but this subscription is plagued with blackouts and high prices. It comes at a price of $199.99 a year to have access to all NBA games and $119.99 to access all the games of one team, which is far too much to pay for a service where you wont be able to watch many of the games.
The major problem with these subscriptions is the games that will be missed as a consequence of blackouts. Anyone with a video subscription will not be able to view games in their market, nationally broadcasted, or ones that are part of the playoffs.
The problem is that the rights to broadcast these games were sold to TV networks and those networks don’t want to have a convenient streaming service competing with them on their games. Because of this restriction, the NBA League pass really has no choice but to watch us suffer through these blackouts.
Many streaming services such as NBA League pass, Netflix, etc. have slowly taken away from the wide audience of cable. People who have a television service are slowly becoming more and more uncommon throughout the years even if only at a glacial pace. Due to the freedom many different streaming services and alternate cable services offer, traditional cable is declining in appeal.
“At the same time, overall viewing of traditional TV is continuing its slow decline.” Victor Luckerson said in a 2014 TIME magazine article. “The average person watched about 141 hours of live television per month in the third quarter of 2014, compared to 147 hours in the third quarter of 2013,”
Not only are less people buying cable services, but these very people are constantly watching less TV. Due to the availability to watch anything whenever they want, streaming services such as Hulu and Netflix have skyrocketed in their viewership. Whereas the NBA League pass does not feel the same effects because it unintentionally negates this effect with it’s blackouts.
Some people are finding ways to avoid these blackouts. They use VPN applications to make it look like their location is outside the country or in an area where the game they’re trying to watch is not blacked out.
“This is leading to a lot of people trying to set up a VPN to trick the service into thinking you're living outside the Houston area.” Chris Brantner said in a 2016 Houston Chronicle article. “Unfortunately, it's likely breaking the terms of service on NBA League Pass,”
NBA League Pass is an overpriced service that doesn’t offer the full NBA experience due to the plague of blackouts. It is the highest priced streaming service offered by a major sports league, and a huge revenue source for the NBA. Consumers that purchase the NBA League Pass should not have to pay for this subscription and be affected by blackouts; however, if you’re willing to bypass the terms of use then you may want to consider subscribing.
Authored By: Anamul Hoque and Charles Dicus
The major problem with these subscriptions is the games that will be missed as a consequence of blackouts. Anyone with a video subscription will not be able to view games in their market, nationally broadcasted, or ones that are part of the playoffs.
The problem is that the rights to broadcast these games were sold to TV networks and those networks don’t want to have a convenient streaming service competing with them on their games. Because of this restriction, the NBA League pass really has no choice but to watch us suffer through these blackouts.
Many streaming services such as NBA League pass, Netflix, etc. have slowly taken away from the wide audience of cable. People who have a television service are slowly becoming more and more uncommon throughout the years even if only at a glacial pace. Due to the freedom many different streaming services and alternate cable services offer, traditional cable is declining in appeal.
“At the same time, overall viewing of traditional TV is continuing its slow decline.” Victor Luckerson said in a 2014 TIME magazine article. “The average person watched about 141 hours of live television per month in the third quarter of 2014, compared to 147 hours in the third quarter of 2013,”
Not only are less people buying cable services, but these very people are constantly watching less TV. Due to the availability to watch anything whenever they want, streaming services such as Hulu and Netflix have skyrocketed in their viewership. Whereas the NBA League pass does not feel the same effects because it unintentionally negates this effect with it’s blackouts.
Some people are finding ways to avoid these blackouts. They use VPN applications to make it look like their location is outside the country or in an area where the game they’re trying to watch is not blacked out.
“This is leading to a lot of people trying to set up a VPN to trick the service into thinking you're living outside the Houston area.” Chris Brantner said in a 2016 Houston Chronicle article. “Unfortunately, it's likely breaking the terms of service on NBA League Pass,”
NBA League Pass is an overpriced service that doesn’t offer the full NBA experience due to the plague of blackouts. It is the highest priced streaming service offered by a major sports league, and a huge revenue source for the NBA. Consumers that purchase the NBA League Pass should not have to pay for this subscription and be affected by blackouts; however, if you’re willing to bypass the terms of use then you may want to consider subscribing.
Authored By: Anamul Hoque and Charles Dicus
Monday, April 3, 2017
Sami Zayn challenging Muslim wrestler stereotypes and Trump ban
Rami Sebei better known as WWE superstar Sami Zayn, spoke out against President Trump’s Muslim ban in the United States due to the injustice being served to these countries. Sami Zayn is tearing the stereotypes of Muslim Wrestlers by competing at the highest level.
Zayn, a Syrian Muslim born in Quebec, Canada, is a professional wrestler for the WWE. In the past the WWE portrayed Muslim wrestlers as the United States vs them. For example the Iron Sheik or Muhammed Hassan were characters that were looked upon as villains against American wrestlers. Sami Zayn is changing the perception of Muslim wrestlers as he is looked upon as one of the premier wrestlers on the WWE roster.
“Now I get to just be me -- and hopefully being me strikes a chord with a lot of young Arabs and non-Arabs, honestly. We're really not all that different," Zayn said to ESPN in a 2017 interview.
Zayn emphasizes the big misconception of Arabic people where they are portrayed as radicals due to ignorance. This very ignorance is what led to the Muslim Ban.
He implies that his “struggling brothers and sisters,” are a problem, but the racial discrimination that Arabic people face is a much bigger issue. In today’s day and time no ethnicity should be facing inequality of any kind especially in the United States.
Due to WWE’s position in the wrestling industry Zayn has this platform to speak out and influence the younger generation. He’s paving the way for Muslim wrestlers to be looked at for their talent instead of their religion.
“With great power comes great responsibility,'" Sebei said in an ESPN interview. "With a platform that big, and with an opportunity this big, whether you want to be a role model or not, this puts you in a position where you have to be your best; it's really your duty to be the best that you can be.”
Zayn wants to emulate how important it is for a celebrity to maintain a positive image for their fans and followers. Celebrities are often more influential than they assume and they forget how “loud” their voice really is.
As a wrestler with Arabic descent Zayn often disagrees with the WWE's portrayal of Arabic wrestlers, especially when they’re seen as villains. He hopes that the WWE could have a more positive self image for their wrestlers. Zayn is an example of many celebrities that show the youth that it possible to make it big in America, it inspires them to strive harder.
"I think it's important for youngsters from all walks of life to have some sort of representative that they can look up to and aspire to be and let them know there's a chance for anybody from any background," Zayn said in an interview with ESPN cited from wrestlingnewsworld.
"That's the spirit of America, right"? "Anybody from any background can make it anywhere with enough hard work. I think the more people from all walks of life who speak up and the more diverse success stories we have, the better that is for our youngsters growing up, knowing they can attain those same goals just like anybody else."
Authored by Anamul Hoque and Mohammed Kabir
Zayn, a Syrian Muslim born in Quebec, Canada, is a professional wrestler for the WWE. In the past the WWE portrayed Muslim wrestlers as the United States vs them. For example the Iron Sheik or Muhammed Hassan were characters that were looked upon as villains against American wrestlers. Sami Zayn is changing the perception of Muslim wrestlers as he is looked upon as one of the premier wrestlers on the WWE roster.
“Now I get to just be me -- and hopefully being me strikes a chord with a lot of young Arabs and non-Arabs, honestly. We're really not all that different," Zayn said to ESPN in a 2017 interview.
Zayn emphasizes the big misconception of Arabic people where they are portrayed as radicals due to ignorance. This very ignorance is what led to the Muslim Ban.
"The fear, hatred & division sold to us is a much bigger problem than our struggling brothers and sisters are. CHOOSE an open heart over anger," Zayn told ESPN in 2017.I can't articulate how truly disgusted I am right now. #MuslimBan— Sami Zayn (@iLikeSamiZayn) January 28, 2017
He implies that his “struggling brothers and sisters,” are a problem, but the racial discrimination that Arabic people face is a much bigger issue. In today’s day and time no ethnicity should be facing inequality of any kind especially in the United States.
Due to WWE’s position in the wrestling industry Zayn has this platform to speak out and influence the younger generation. He’s paving the way for Muslim wrestlers to be looked at for their talent instead of their religion.
“With great power comes great responsibility,'" Sebei said in an ESPN interview. "With a platform that big, and with an opportunity this big, whether you want to be a role model or not, this puts you in a position where you have to be your best; it's really your duty to be the best that you can be.”
Zayn wants to emulate how important it is for a celebrity to maintain a positive image for their fans and followers. Celebrities are often more influential than they assume and they forget how “loud” their voice really is.
As a wrestler with Arabic descent Zayn often disagrees with the WWE's portrayal of Arabic wrestlers, especially when they’re seen as villains. He hopes that the WWE could have a more positive self image for their wrestlers. Zayn is an example of many celebrities that show the youth that it possible to make it big in America, it inspires them to strive harder.
"I think it's important for youngsters from all walks of life to have some sort of representative that they can look up to and aspire to be and let them know there's a chance for anybody from any background," Zayn said in an interview with ESPN cited from wrestlingnewsworld.
"That's the spirit of America, right"? "Anybody from any background can make it anywhere with enough hard work. I think the more people from all walks of life who speak up and the more diverse success stories we have, the better that is for our youngsters growing up, knowing they can attain those same goals just like anybody else."
Authored by Anamul Hoque and Mohammed Kabir
DeAngelo Williams strides against breast cancer
In 2015, DeAngelo Williams chose to wear special eye black in support of Breast Cancer Awareness despite imminent penalties. Williams has been very vocal, calling for support. Williams feels a responsibility to advocate for those who must fight breast cancer.
“Breast cancer, whether I like it or not, is part of my family's story.” Williams wrote in a 2014 Sports Illustrated article. “That's why I am so passionate about raising awareness, because I have seen firsthand how it can impact others.”
DeAngelo Williams’ mother and four aunts all fought and died from Breast Cancer, and he’s been watching them suffer most of his life. In honor of his family members and those with breast cancer, he chose to wear the eye black and was than fined for this small first-time uniform infraction. He then continued his campaign dying the tips of his hair pink.
“When breast cancer took my mom, it met its biggest enemy,” Williams told the Metastatic Breast Cancer Alliance.
Williams has consistently advocated for breast cancer awareness. Worrying not of the penalties and fees, Williams has used his status as an NFL player to reach audiences. He believes women should get tested more and rather than waiting for October breast cancer should be thought of year round.
"It's not just about October for me; it's not just a month, it's a lifestyle. It's about getting women to recognize to get tested," Williams told Lisa Salters of ESPN in 2015.
Williams continues to push for a cure because he knows how it affects people first hand. He payed for 53 mammograms to honor his mom who had died from breast cancer. Williams has founded “The DeAngelo Williams Foundation” which is a non-profit organization whose mission is to support the eradication of breast cancer. Despite all his efforts, Williams is far from satisfied.
"I don't ever feel like I do enough," Williams told Molly Grantham from WBTV.
Authored by Gabriel Cuilan, Bruce Mayfield
“Breast cancer, whether I like it or not, is part of my family's story.” Williams wrote in a 2014 Sports Illustrated article. “That's why I am so passionate about raising awareness, because I have seen firsthand how it can impact others.”
DeAngelo Williams’ mother and four aunts all fought and died from Breast Cancer, and he’s been watching them suffer most of his life. In honor of his family members and those with breast cancer, he chose to wear the eye black and was than fined for this small first-time uniform infraction. He then continued his campaign dying the tips of his hair pink.
“When breast cancer took my mom, it met its biggest enemy,” Williams told the Metastatic Breast Cancer Alliance.
Williams has consistently advocated for breast cancer awareness. Worrying not of the penalties and fees, Williams has used his status as an NFL player to reach audiences. He believes women should get tested more and rather than waiting for October breast cancer should be thought of year round.
"It's not just about October for me; it's not just a month, it's a lifestyle. It's about getting women to recognize to get tested," Williams told Lisa Salters of ESPN in 2015.
Williams continues to push for a cure because he knows how it affects people first hand. He payed for 53 mammograms to honor his mom who had died from breast cancer. Williams has founded “The DeAngelo Williams Foundation” which is a non-profit organization whose mission is to support the eradication of breast cancer. Despite all his efforts, Williams is far from satisfied.
"I don't ever feel like I do enough," Williams told Molly Grantham from WBTV.
Authored by Gabriel Cuilan, Bruce Mayfield
Donald Sterling's racist comments spark league wide movement
You are a professional basketball player for a team in the midst of the golden era of their franchise, leading a first round playoff series against your biggest rivals two games to one; geared up and ready to roll, the adrenaline and confidence of your team is at an all time high ... and then your owner grabs a hammer and tears it to shreds. That was the case with Donald Sterling, the then owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, who made insensitive racial comments against African-Americans in April 2014.
Sterling at the time was in a relationship with his then-girlfriend V.V Stiviano. In September of 2013, Stiviano posted an Instagram photo of her and Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson, which irritated Sterling.
"It bothers me a lot that you want to broadcast that you're associating with black people", Sterling told Stiviano in the recording. "You can sleep with [black people]. You can bring them in, you can do whatever you want ... but the little thing I ask you is ... not to bring them to my games".
Of course, Sterling’s comments had a number of negative responses from players and owners alike.
“There is no room for Donald Sterling in the NBA”, Lebron James said during an interview before a Saturday playoff game against the Charlotte Bobcats in 2014.
The owner of the Miami Heat, Mickey Arison, also called the comments, “appalling, offensive and very sad.” Other legends such as Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, and Kevin Johnson spoke out against Sterling’s remarks.
The biggest impact Sterling’s racist comments had was on the team itself, and their response was just as significant. Before their Game 4 playoff game against the Golden State Warriors, a game which they lost by a significant margin, the players took off their warmup shirts and left them on the floor. In the locker room before the game, "We are one," was written on the dry-erase board, which was the message players and coaches talked about before taking the court. The Clippers players also, in an attempt not to display the team’s logo, turned their red shooting shirts inside out and began to practice.
During the game, players wore black wristbands and black socks. The leader of the team, superstar point guard Chris Paul attempted to unify the team, declaring,
"We're going to be one, everything we do, we do it together," Paul told ESPN in 2014. "Stay together, play ball...we worked hard to be where we are..."
Sterling’s comments wasn’t just a nuisance to the players and coaches, but the city of Los Angeles as a whole. The Los Angeles chapter of the NCAAP cancelled its plan to award Sterling with its lifetime achievement award, and as a whole, the Clippers lost considerable fan support and money. Numerous sponsors, including Chumash Casino and CarMax severed their ties with the team, while other sponsors temporarily suspended their respective relationships.
It was obvious that the NBA needed to act in order to improve publicity. On April 29, 2014, newly instated commissioner Adam Silver banned Sterling from the NBA for life and fined him $2.5 million. He also moved to force Sterling to sell the team based on a “willful violation of the rules.” Sterling challenged the league at every turn, but it was to no avail, as the NBA approved the sale of the team to billionaire Steve Ballmer. The Board of Governors unanimously ratified the deal 29-0, and Sterling was ousted as owner.
The NBA’s quick disposition of Sterling earned considerable praise around the league. Clippers coach Doc Rivers, who has expressed doubt about whether he'd honor the two years left on his contract if Donald Sterling remained the owner, called it "an amazing new day in Clippers history."
“I couldn’t be more excited to work together with Steve as we continue to build a first-class, championship organization," Rivers told CbsSports.com in 2014. "I am already inspired by Steve’s passion for the game, his love of competition and desire to win the right way and I know our players and fans are going to be inspired as well.”
Three years after the ordeal, the stench of Sterling as owner occasionally lingers around the franchise. After beating the Golden State Warriors in a grueling seven game series that year, they lost in heartbreaking fashion to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the semifinals. Although, the Clippers are still in the midst of the most successful period in franchise history, they’ve yet to achieve a NBA finals berth, or Western Conference for that matter.
Donald Sterling’s comments had huge repercussions regarding the team’s playoff run, and one must wonder if this fiasco, despite ousting him as owner, prevented the team from achieving even more success. Nevertheless, it’s comforting for NBA fans and players alike to know that situations like this does not go unnoticed, and it portrayed the NBA's willingness to stand up against immoral social standards.
Authored by Arik Armstead and Matthias Granja
Sterling at the time was in a relationship with his then-girlfriend V.V Stiviano. In September of 2013, Stiviano posted an Instagram photo of her and Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson, which irritated Sterling.
"It bothers me a lot that you want to broadcast that you're associating with black people", Sterling told Stiviano in the recording. "You can sleep with [black people]. You can bring them in, you can do whatever you want ... but the little thing I ask you is ... not to bring them to my games".
Of course, Sterling’s comments had a number of negative responses from players and owners alike.
“There is no room for Donald Sterling in the NBA”, Lebron James said during an interview before a Saturday playoff game against the Charlotte Bobcats in 2014.
The owner of the Miami Heat, Mickey Arison, also called the comments, “appalling, offensive and very sad.” Other legends such as Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, and Kevin Johnson spoke out against Sterling’s remarks.
The biggest impact Sterling’s racist comments had was on the team itself, and their response was just as significant. Before their Game 4 playoff game against the Golden State Warriors, a game which they lost by a significant margin, the players took off their warmup shirts and left them on the floor. In the locker room before the game, "We are one," was written on the dry-erase board, which was the message players and coaches talked about before taking the court. The Clippers players also, in an attempt not to display the team’s logo, turned their red shooting shirts inside out and began to practice.
During the game, players wore black wristbands and black socks. The leader of the team, superstar point guard Chris Paul attempted to unify the team, declaring,
"We're going to be one, everything we do, we do it together," Paul told ESPN in 2014. "Stay together, play ball...we worked hard to be where we are..."
Sterling’s comments wasn’t just a nuisance to the players and coaches, but the city of Los Angeles as a whole. The Los Angeles chapter of the NCAAP cancelled its plan to award Sterling with its lifetime achievement award, and as a whole, the Clippers lost considerable fan support and money. Numerous sponsors, including Chumash Casino and CarMax severed their ties with the team, while other sponsors temporarily suspended their respective relationships.
It was obvious that the NBA needed to act in order to improve publicity. On April 29, 2014, newly instated commissioner Adam Silver banned Sterling from the NBA for life and fined him $2.5 million. He also moved to force Sterling to sell the team based on a “willful violation of the rules.” Sterling challenged the league at every turn, but it was to no avail, as the NBA approved the sale of the team to billionaire Steve Ballmer. The Board of Governors unanimously ratified the deal 29-0, and Sterling was ousted as owner.
The NBA’s quick disposition of Sterling earned considerable praise around the league. Clippers coach Doc Rivers, who has expressed doubt about whether he'd honor the two years left on his contract if Donald Sterling remained the owner, called it "an amazing new day in Clippers history."
“I couldn’t be more excited to work together with Steve as we continue to build a first-class, championship organization," Rivers told CbsSports.com in 2014. "I am already inspired by Steve’s passion for the game, his love of competition and desire to win the right way and I know our players and fans are going to be inspired as well.”
Three years after the ordeal, the stench of Sterling as owner occasionally lingers around the franchise. After beating the Golden State Warriors in a grueling seven game series that year, they lost in heartbreaking fashion to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the semifinals. Although, the Clippers are still in the midst of the most successful period in franchise history, they’ve yet to achieve a NBA finals berth, or Western Conference for that matter.
Donald Sterling’s comments had huge repercussions regarding the team’s playoff run, and one must wonder if this fiasco, despite ousting him as owner, prevented the team from achieving even more success. Nevertheless, it’s comforting for NBA fans and players alike to know that situations like this does not go unnoticed, and it portrayed the NBA's willingness to stand up against immoral social standards.
Authored by Arik Armstead and Matthias Granja
Randy Orton takes strong stance against National Anthem protests
WWE superstar Randy Orton has voiced a strong opinion in the ongoing protests concerning the National Anthem and the fight for rights in America. Orton has took a strong stance on Colin Kaepernick and his decision to kneel during the National Anthem, as he feels that kneeling during the National Anthem is not the right way to go about the issue.
NFL Quarterback Colin Kaepernick has carried out many protests in favor of the Black Lives Matter movement. He has decided to kneel down during the National Anthem before every game in attempt to show people that he will not stand by and do nothing while black people are oppressed throughout the country.
“I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color," Kaepernick told NFL Media in an exclusive interview after the game. "To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder."
Sports writer and podcast host David Zirin backed Colin Kaepernick’s actions in a contentious tweet.
“Sneering? More like shaking my head. Courage? Lol riiiight. Courage. That’s what it takes to stand up and fight, not raise a fist,” Orton said.
The next day, a woman questioned Orton’s remarks in a tweet regarding the Black Lives Matter movement.
“Black people are dying randy. Where's your anger for that,” the woman asked.
Orton responded in yet another tweet regarding the issue, claiming that the issue is not limited to a certain race.
“Americans are dying. Pigment of skin doesn't matter. American people matter,” Orton stated.
Orton then doubled down on his opinions on the ongoing protests when interviewed in a podcast on the radio show Heated Conversations on Houston's Sports Radio 610, hosted by WWE Hall of Famer Booker T.
“I basically said that Americans are dying, no matter the color of their skin, Americans are dying. And I also said courage is what it takes to stand up and fight, not kneel or raise the fist during the National Anthem.”
Orton was crystal clear in expressing his opinion on Kaepernick’s decision to kneel during the National Anthem. He went on to explain how he has nothing against Colin Kaepernick.
"The issues he's kneeling for, I respect that he is kneeling for those issues," Orton said to Booker T. "I just disagree with his way of showing that it's an issue to him. You hear a lot of people say 'he sat the bench, he's looking for attention', whether that's true or not. Listen he's got a voice he's in the public eye, that's what all those social media followers are for.
"I want to hear what the man has to say. And in the recent weeks he's talked about what his issue was, and again I respect those issues man this world is a scary place. People are dying. There's a lot of issues and everyone needs to unite together, as hard as that may seem Book, and talk about the issues. Kneeling when the National Anthem is played, when the Pledge Of Allegiance is played, I just disagree with the way that he did it. That's all."
A report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter revealed Colin Kaepernick, former San Francisco 49er quarterback and free agent, will be standing for the national anthem before games next season.
“Kaepernick no longer wants his method of protest to detract from the positive change that he believes has been created, sources told ESPN. He also believes the amount of national discussion on social inequality — as well as support from other athletes nationwide, including NFL and NBA players — affirmed the message he was trying to deliver,” Schefter said in March of 2017.
Though Kaepernick is still 100% behind the cause, his kneeling may have cost him his career.
“No GM will go near him ever again,” an anonymous NFL GM stated.
While Kaepernick’s actions and remarks may have placed a major dent in his career, Orton continues to play a huge role in the WWE. This coming April Orton will be headlining the biggest pay per view in the WWE, Wrestlemania, as he faces Bray Wyatt, his former companion, for the WWE championship.
NFL Quarterback Colin Kaepernick has carried out many protests in favor of the Black Lives Matter movement. He has decided to kneel down during the National Anthem before every game in attempt to show people that he will not stand by and do nothing while black people are oppressed throughout the country.
“I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color," Kaepernick told NFL Media in an exclusive interview after the game. "To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder."
Sports writer and podcast host David Zirin backed Colin Kaepernick’s actions in a contentious tweet.
WWE star Randy Orton went against Zirin’s remarks in another tweet that counteracted Zirin’s beliefs.If you're sneering that it doesn't take courage to raise your fist during the anthem, then you're one of the reasons why it takes courage.— Dave Zirin (@EdgeofSports) September 20, 2016
“Sneering? More like shaking my head. Courage? Lol riiiight. Courage. That’s what it takes to stand up and fight, not raise a fist,” Orton said.
The next day, a woman questioned Orton’s remarks in a tweet regarding the Black Lives Matter movement.
“Black people are dying randy. Where's your anger for that,” the woman asked.
Orton responded in yet another tweet regarding the issue, claiming that the issue is not limited to a certain race.
“Americans are dying. Pigment of skin doesn't matter. American people matter,” Orton stated.
Orton then doubled down on his opinions on the ongoing protests when interviewed in a podcast on the radio show Heated Conversations on Houston's Sports Radio 610, hosted by WWE Hall of Famer Booker T.
“I basically said that Americans are dying, no matter the color of their skin, Americans are dying. And I also said courage is what it takes to stand up and fight, not kneel or raise the fist during the National Anthem.”
Orton was crystal clear in expressing his opinion on Kaepernick’s decision to kneel during the National Anthem. He went on to explain how he has nothing against Colin Kaepernick.
"The issues he's kneeling for, I respect that he is kneeling for those issues," Orton said to Booker T. "I just disagree with his way of showing that it's an issue to him. You hear a lot of people say 'he sat the bench, he's looking for attention', whether that's true or not. Listen he's got a voice he's in the public eye, that's what all those social media followers are for.
"I want to hear what the man has to say. And in the recent weeks he's talked about what his issue was, and again I respect those issues man this world is a scary place. People are dying. There's a lot of issues and everyone needs to unite together, as hard as that may seem Book, and talk about the issues. Kneeling when the National Anthem is played, when the Pledge Of Allegiance is played, I just disagree with the way that he did it. That's all."
A report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter revealed Colin Kaepernick, former San Francisco 49er quarterback and free agent, will be standing for the national anthem before games next season.
“Kaepernick no longer wants his method of protest to detract from the positive change that he believes has been created, sources told ESPN. He also believes the amount of national discussion on social inequality — as well as support from other athletes nationwide, including NFL and NBA players — affirmed the message he was trying to deliver,” Schefter said in March of 2017.
Though Kaepernick is still 100% behind the cause, his kneeling may have cost him his career.
“No GM will go near him ever again,” an anonymous NFL GM stated.
While Kaepernick’s actions and remarks may have placed a major dent in his career, Orton continues to play a huge role in the WWE. This coming April Orton will be headlining the biggest pay per view in the WWE, Wrestlemania, as he faces Bray Wyatt, his former companion, for the WWE championship.
Panthers head coach Ron Rivera expresses strong opinions on immigration and race
Ron Rivera has expressed strong opinions about immigration and race in contrast to the ideas of our new president. Rivera, the only Hispanic coach in the NFL and one of three Hispanic men to ever coach in the NFL, has a unique perspective on the issues of immigration and race.
Athletes and coaches of professional sports teams have recently commented on many social and political issues, especially revolving around the policies of newly elected President Donald Trump.
Growing up in a military family, Rivera was never exposed to racism until the eighth grade when he moved back to the United States when he was called a “wetback.” Hearing this was one of the few times he was really "ticked off" by someone speaking to him in that manner. Another form of racism that he experienced was from a teammate who made a couple of racist comments while he was playing at the University of California-Berkeley; however, he said that while he was in the NFL he never experienced any form of racism.
While playing in the NFL he was asked to be a role model for Hispanics and was often looked up to by kids in the Hispanic community. When asked about a growing popularity of football in the Hispanic community he felt as if it had grown a lot with there being a lot of youth leagues for football in Puerto Rico and Mexico. He thinks that this growth of football within the Hispanic culture is a wonderful thing.
As he has become a coach and because of the higher stress put on issues of immigration, he has been forced to be more defensive of his ideals. His ideas on immigration are different from those of the President. In his eyes, immigrants are just a group of people that are trying to make better lives for their families and he believes that’s what it’s really about.
“That’s what America is built on, and we can’t lock people out because of that,” Ron Rivera said in an interview with Ahiza Garcia of CNN Money on February 27th 2017.
He and Cam Newton, his quarterback, both feel an increased pressure to perform because of their race according to Rivera.
“He wants to present that you can be successful as an African American quarterback, I struggle with that because at the end of the day it should really be about your merit,” said Rivera in the same interview with CNN Money.
He feels a responsibility because of his race that he is obligated to do well to give that same image for the Hispanic community.
“I feel that I have to do well, and I’m at that level now,” Rivera said.
Ron Rivera disagrees with the president’s ideas on Immigration. He believes that because he is the only Hispanic coach he has an obligation to speak out about race and immigration. He believes that in America people of color have to do more to prove themselves as an athlete.
Growing up in a military family, Rivera was never exposed to racism until the eighth grade when he moved back to the United States when he was called a “wetback.” Hearing this was one of the few times he was really "ticked off" by someone speaking to him in that manner. Another form of racism that he experienced was from a teammate who made a couple of racist comments while he was playing at the University of California-Berkeley; however, he said that while he was in the NFL he never experienced any form of racism.
While playing in the NFL he was asked to be a role model for Hispanics and was often looked up to by kids in the Hispanic community. When asked about a growing popularity of football in the Hispanic community he felt as if it had grown a lot with there being a lot of youth leagues for football in Puerto Rico and Mexico. He thinks that this growth of football within the Hispanic culture is a wonderful thing.
As he has become a coach and because of the higher stress put on issues of immigration, he has been forced to be more defensive of his ideals. His ideas on immigration are different from those of the President. In his eyes, immigrants are just a group of people that are trying to make better lives for their families and he believes that’s what it’s really about.
“That’s what America is built on, and we can’t lock people out because of that,” Ron Rivera said in an interview with Ahiza Garcia of CNN Money on February 27th 2017.
He and Cam Newton, his quarterback, both feel an increased pressure to perform because of their race according to Rivera.
“He wants to present that you can be successful as an African American quarterback, I struggle with that because at the end of the day it should really be about your merit,” said Rivera in the same interview with CNN Money.
He feels a responsibility because of his race that he is obligated to do well to give that same image for the Hispanic community.
“I feel that I have to do well, and I’m at that level now,” Rivera said.
Ron Rivera disagrees with the president’s ideas on Immigration. He believes that because he is the only Hispanic coach he has an obligation to speak out about race and immigration. He believes that in America people of color have to do more to prove themselves as an athlete.
Thursday, March 30, 2017
'Banana Boat Crew' delivers powerful message to begin 2016 ESPYs
During the 2016 ESPYs, Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, and Chris Paul, together known as the “Banana Boat Crew,” spoke out on the rise of social justice and racial profiling. As prominent figures in the NBA and influential models for those that admire them, they took the stage as an opportunity to influence change and work towards solidarity. They addressed the issues together as not only athletes, but members of the community as well.
Throughout their respective careers, James, Paul, Anthony, and Wade have been superstars that in the NBA have developed a large fan base, not just in the United States, but worldwide. Their celebrity status has allowed them the opportunity to be vocal regarding issues that exist in our society. They have taken advantage of this opportunity during their careers, and view it as a responsibility as a social figure. Anthony addressed his duty as a citizen in a Guardian editorial he wrote in 2016.
“[Speaking out] is not really about politics,” Anthony said. “There’s nothing political about taking a stand and speaking on what you believe in. When I chose to speak out, it was a matter of being honest, speaking from the heart about what’s going on and calling on my colleagues to step up, get out there and put pressure on the people in charge to not let this happen anymore.”
The ESPYs is an annual award show for individual and team athletic achievement and other sports-related performances. The ceremony is broadcasted on ABC and ESPN, where millions of viewers tune in to see their favorite athletes get recognized. With the increased publicity of racial profiling and retaliation within society, prominent athletes took the stage to raise awareness for these issues. They commenced the award show with brief, powerful speeches on the importance of solidarity and change.
“We stand here accepting our role in uniting communities to be the change we need to see,” Paul said during his speech at the ESPYs. “We stand before you as fathers, sons, husbands, brothers, [and] uncles.”
Wade addressed the rise of police brutality in recent years, particularly against African-Americans as a source of the tension in society. He condemned the offenders, and also called on athletes like himself to help modify the culture in America, no matter how difficult it may be.
“Not seeing the value of black and brown bodies has to stop,” Wade said to the audience. “Now, as athletes, it’s on us to challenge each other to do even more than we already do in our own communities. And the conversation, it cannot stop as our schedules get busy again. It won’t always be convenient. It won’t. It won’t always be comfortable, but it is necessary.”
Together, the four stars spoke out on the issues plaguing society as communal members and harbingers of change. Like everyone else, they were tired of the societal inequalities and injustice that has reigned supreme against African-Americans and minorities for hundreds of years. The problems were not new; however, the methods of change and raising awareness in efforts of reaching solidarity as a community has become a mission for these NBA stars.
“The system is broken,” Anthony urged in his ESPYs speech. “The problems are not new. The violence is not new, and the racial divide is definitely not new. But, the urgency for great change is at an all-time high.”
James, arguably the best player of his era, echoed the thoughts of hopelessness that many Americans feel today. He finished their collective speech by calling for everyone to look at their actions and see where they could improve to benefit society.
“We all feel helpless and frustrated by the violence,” James said. “It’s time to look in the mirror and ask ourselves what are we doing to create change. ...We all have to do better. Thank you.”
Authored by Armani Damiron and Michael Stern
Throughout their respective careers, James, Paul, Anthony, and Wade have been superstars that in the NBA have developed a large fan base, not just in the United States, but worldwide. Their celebrity status has allowed them the opportunity to be vocal regarding issues that exist in our society. They have taken advantage of this opportunity during their careers, and view it as a responsibility as a social figure. Anthony addressed his duty as a citizen in a Guardian editorial he wrote in 2016.
“[Speaking out] is not really about politics,” Anthony said. “There’s nothing political about taking a stand and speaking on what you believe in. When I chose to speak out, it was a matter of being honest, speaking from the heart about what’s going on and calling on my colleagues to step up, get out there and put pressure on the people in charge to not let this happen anymore.”
The ESPYs is an annual award show for individual and team athletic achievement and other sports-related performances. The ceremony is broadcasted on ABC and ESPN, where millions of viewers tune in to see their favorite athletes get recognized. With the increased publicity of racial profiling and retaliation within society, prominent athletes took the stage to raise awareness for these issues. They commenced the award show with brief, powerful speeches on the importance of solidarity and change.
“We stand here accepting our role in uniting communities to be the change we need to see,” Paul said during his speech at the ESPYs. “We stand before you as fathers, sons, husbands, brothers, [and] uncles.”
Wade addressed the rise of police brutality in recent years, particularly against African-Americans as a source of the tension in society. He condemned the offenders, and also called on athletes like himself to help modify the culture in America, no matter how difficult it may be.
“Not seeing the value of black and brown bodies has to stop,” Wade said to the audience. “Now, as athletes, it’s on us to challenge each other to do even more than we already do in our own communities. And the conversation, it cannot stop as our schedules get busy again. It won’t always be convenient. It won’t. It won’t always be comfortable, but it is necessary.”
Together, the four stars spoke out on the issues plaguing society as communal members and harbingers of change. Like everyone else, they were tired of the societal inequalities and injustice that has reigned supreme against African-Americans and minorities for hundreds of years. The problems were not new; however, the methods of change and raising awareness in efforts of reaching solidarity as a community has become a mission for these NBA stars.
“The system is broken,” Anthony urged in his ESPYs speech. “The problems are not new. The violence is not new, and the racial divide is definitely not new. But, the urgency for great change is at an all-time high.”
James, arguably the best player of his era, echoed the thoughts of hopelessness that many Americans feel today. He finished their collective speech by calling for everyone to look at their actions and see where they could improve to benefit society.
“We all feel helpless and frustrated by the violence,” James said. “It’s time to look in the mirror and ask ourselves what are we doing to create change. ...We all have to do better. Thank you.”
Authored by Armani Damiron and Michael Stern
Wednesday, March 8, 2017
Alex West: The rising dragon of HSMSE
Alex West has shown her potential this season as a junior for the High School For Math Science and Engineering’s girls' basketball team. Her impact on the team as a leader and valuable scorer played a large role throughout the season and in the playoffs.
In the 2015-2016 season, West averaged only six points per game. She looked to her team for inspiration for the next season, specifically coach David Scheiman and team captain Annabelle Shultz.
“Mostly Annabelle and Scheiman [have helped me improve] because they knew I had the potential and I have finally been achieving what they always thought I could do,” West said.
West showed great improvement this season as she averaged 14 points per game and led the division in assists. The Lady Dragons finished the season 10-1 and faced Eleanor Roosevelt in their first playoff game, where they suffered a heartbreaking 50-45 loss. West performed well in the playoff contest, scoring 16 points and making key defensive stops.
She attributed their playoff appearance to the strength of the entire team. The team's chemistry improved as the season went along.
“This year we [were] more of a team even [when] we lost," she said. "We are bonded closer together. Scheiman has focused more on the technique behind our shooting and layups, so we have become more consistent and we have had better practice of this.”
Scheiman described technical improvements in West’s play that has raised her confidence on the court. As her role in the offense has grown, so has her output.
“Her dribbling, her shooting, and her on and off-court leadership [has improved], she has been very vocal on and off the court," Scheiman said. "She’s starting to come into her own and feels a lot more confident dribbling and shooting this year.”
As a coach, Scheiman saw potential and growth in West both on and off the court. Since freshman year he was impressed by her athleticism and fierce determination.
“On the court she’s a leader," he said. "She’s a fierce competitor and a lot of the other players will follow her on that effect. Off the court, she is the leader amongst her grade and people look up to her. So pretty much, for Alex for next year the girls [will] look up to her, so if she leads the way they will follow her."
West will be looking forward to playing her last season with the Lady Dragons next year. Scheiman has high expectations for her next season as a leader both on and off the court, as well emerging as a top player in the league with Shultz’s departure.
“I would like to see her anywhere from a 15 to 20 point scorer," Scheiman said. "I would like to see her averaging five rebounds per game. I think she can be a top player in the league, she’s very good in basketball and she can do that next year.”
Although she suffered a crushing loss in the playoffs after improving immensely, West held her head high in hopes of winning it all next year.
“We’ll practice harder, play harder, and I’ll do my best to lead the team,” she said.
Friday, March 3, 2017
Freshmen taking big steps towards a role on the HSMSE basketball team
This season the freshman boys’ basketball players at the High School for Math Science and Engineering have made contributions across the board to a rebuilding basketball team that lost eight seniors. The team has relied upon its younger players for support because of the gaps left at the shooting guard and small forward positions by the graduated players.
Freshmen Jasper Saar and Adrian Wu have been sharing minutes at the shooting guard position, as well as freshman Yahmani Price , who has seen minutes at the small forward position. Price has also made valuable contributions as a rebounder and a scorer. Saar plays well as a ball handler and as a defender. Wu is a sharpshooter who is also a plus defender.
The Dragons went from a 6-10 record in 2015-16 to an 8-6 record this season. This improvement comes after a loss of seven players, three of whom were starting players last year. Their defensive contributions and the ball handling skills of all three players have been valuable assets to the team.
The freshmen have helped to push the offense, especially Price. His playmaking ability is advanced for a ninth grader.
“I’m a good passer and I have [court] vision,” Price said.
This ability is not just an unbacked claim, as he averaged three assists per game which is second only to Jonathan Katzman on the team, who leads the division in that category.
The future looks bright for HSMSE basketball if these freshman continue to develop and get playing time. They show an ability to handle the ball and shoot. If the team can fill the rebounding loss from their departing front court, HSMSE boys basketball will have an opportunity to play post-season basketball once again.
Authored by Charles Dicus and Gabriel Cuilan
Freshmen Jasper Saar and Adrian Wu have been sharing minutes at the shooting guard position, as well as freshman Yahmani Price , who has seen minutes at the small forward position. Price has also made valuable contributions as a rebounder and a scorer. Saar plays well as a ball handler and as a defender. Wu is a sharpshooter who is also a plus defender.
The Dragons went from a 6-10 record in 2015-16 to an 8-6 record this season. This improvement comes after a loss of seven players, three of whom were starting players last year. Their defensive contributions and the ball handling skills of all three players have been valuable assets to the team.
The freshmen have helped to push the offense, especially Price. His playmaking ability is advanced for a ninth grader.
“I’m a good passer and I have [court] vision,” Price said.
 |
| Yahmani Price / Tom Henning |
The future looks bright for HSMSE basketball if these freshman continue to develop and get playing time. They show an ability to handle the ball and shoot. If the team can fill the rebounding loss from their departing front court, HSMSE boys basketball will have an opportunity to play post-season basketball once again.
Authored by Charles Dicus and Gabriel Cuilan
Thursday, March 2, 2017
Eric Abreu’s leadership drives HSMSE boys basketball to playoffs
Eric Abreu’s improvement throughout his four year tenure on the High School for Math Science and Engineering’s boys’ basketball team has propelled the Dragons to their first playoff appearance in five seasons.
In the 2016-17 season, Abreu scored 16.7 ppg, placing him second in his division. His scoring output is even more impressive considering the fact that he has doubled it since freshman year.
“There wasn’t many seniors on the team when I came, so through the years I tried to step into that leadership role,” Abreu said. “[I wanted to] be that leader that we didn’t have.”
Aside from his on-court contribution, Abreu is also a tremendous asset off the court. He must balance his responsibilities in the Mount Sinai concentration, a medical internship that HSMSE offers that requires the student to spend half the school day at Mount Sinai hospital. Abreu makes sure that his work at Mount Sinai does not interfere with his role on the team.
“I try to make up for Sinai when I don’t have school,” he said.
As one of only two four year players on the team, he must be a mentor for players who are not as experienced in the PSAL, and try to mold new additions to contributors for the team. Gabriel Culian is a second year player for the Dragons, and he feels his production has increased through Abreu's guidance.
“Certain times when I was working by myself he would come to me and show me certain skills,” Culian said. “He’s pushed me to strive harder in school and he’s helped me when I had trouble.”
Since the Dragons are heading into the playoffs for the first time since the 2011-12 season, no current member on the team has played a game in the postseason. Despite their lack of experience, Abreu is confident the team will do well.
“Over the years I've been on the team, we've gotten a lot better,” Abreu said. “When the ball is in someone else's hands, they can do something well for the team.”
Authored By Mohammed Kabir, Michael Stern, Matthias Granja
In the 2016-17 season, Abreu scored 16.7 ppg, placing him second in his division. His scoring output is even more impressive considering the fact that he has doubled it since freshman year.
“There wasn’t many seniors on the team when I came, so through the years I tried to step into that leadership role,” Abreu said. “[I wanted to] be that leader that we didn’t have.”
Aside from his on-court contribution, Abreu is also a tremendous asset off the court. He must balance his responsibilities in the Mount Sinai concentration, a medical internship that HSMSE offers that requires the student to spend half the school day at Mount Sinai hospital. Abreu makes sure that his work at Mount Sinai does not interfere with his role on the team.
 |
| Teammates show appreciation for Eric Abreu / T. Henning |
“I try to make up for Sinai when I don’t have school,” he said.
As one of only two four year players on the team, he must be a mentor for players who are not as experienced in the PSAL, and try to mold new additions to contributors for the team. Gabriel Culian is a second year player for the Dragons, and he feels his production has increased through Abreu's guidance.
“Certain times when I was working by myself he would come to me and show me certain skills,” Culian said. “He’s pushed me to strive harder in school and he’s helped me when I had trouble.”
Since the Dragons are heading into the playoffs for the first time since the 2011-12 season, no current member on the team has played a game in the postseason. Despite their lack of experience, Abreu is confident the team will do well.
“Over the years I've been on the team, we've gotten a lot better,” Abreu said. “When the ball is in someone else's hands, they can do something well for the team.”
Authored By Mohammed Kabir, Michael Stern, Matthias Granja
Nathan Cates: Passion personified
Clank! The ball bounces off the rim and into the big man’s hands. He rises up strong and finishes with contact. The player screams “AND 1!” with ferocity as the crowd cheers him on. This sequence has been a normality in senior Nathan Cates’ high school career, as he’s remained an integral part of the HSMSE boys basketball varsity team.
Cates, who has played three out of the four years, wasn’t always the most dedicated and focused player. During his freshman year, Cates struggled to maintain composure on and off the court and as a result of that, only played in four games his rookie season.
“When you’re younger, you can be hot-headed,” Cates said. “As a captain, you have to keep your head cool.”
Referring to an incident earlier in his career in which he got benched for a scuffle with an opposing player after a foul, Cates said he matured over time. This year he has yet to receive a technical foul and has used his experience to instruct the underclassmen.
“Throughout the years I’ve had a change of attitude,” Cates said. “As I became an upperclassman, I was able to improve through practice and learning from those before me.”
As his focus improved on the court, so did his focus off the court. The only year Cates was not able to participate in varsity sports was his sophomore year of high school, in which subpar grades limited him from playing on the team. Motivated to get back on the team, he began to work harder in school, stating that the desire to play basketball has helped him with his academic responsibilities.
“When I’m doing my classwork I know that it’s necessary to play the game I love,” he said. “It pays off. I used to have academic issues, but it’s not worth missing basketball season.”
The maturing process he has gone through has physically and mentally changed Cates. Averaging a career high 10.7 ppg to go along with 14.7 rpg, his rebounding and his post play has been vital to the Dragons playoff push.
“Rebounding is the beginning of offense,” Cates states. “Every rebound is the start of a new possession. That’s how I get most of my points. Nothing’s better than rebounding.”
Now, as the team gets ready for its first playoff game in five years, Nathan Cates has sustained confidence in himself and his teammates. He believes a title, which would be the first in HSMSE basketball history, is not out of the question.
“We have a great team,” he said. “We have a lot of chemistry. I think we can beat any team.”
Authored by Arik Armstead, Bruce Mayfield
Cates, who has played three out of the four years, wasn’t always the most dedicated and focused player. During his freshman year, Cates struggled to maintain composure on and off the court and as a result of that, only played in four games his rookie season.
“When you’re younger, you can be hot-headed,” Cates said. “As a captain, you have to keep your head cool.”
 |
| Nathan Cates / Tom Henning |
“Throughout the years I’ve had a change of attitude,” Cates said. “As I became an upperclassman, I was able to improve through practice and learning from those before me.”
As his focus improved on the court, so did his focus off the court. The only year Cates was not able to participate in varsity sports was his sophomore year of high school, in which subpar grades limited him from playing on the team. Motivated to get back on the team, he began to work harder in school, stating that the desire to play basketball has helped him with his academic responsibilities.
“When I’m doing my classwork I know that it’s necessary to play the game I love,” he said. “It pays off. I used to have academic issues, but it’s not worth missing basketball season.”
The maturing process he has gone through has physically and mentally changed Cates. Averaging a career high 10.7 ppg to go along with 14.7 rpg, his rebounding and his post play has been vital to the Dragons playoff push.
“Rebounding is the beginning of offense,” Cates states. “Every rebound is the start of a new possession. That’s how I get most of my points. Nothing’s better than rebounding.”
Now, as the team gets ready for its first playoff game in five years, Nathan Cates has sustained confidence in himself and his teammates. He believes a title, which would be the first in HSMSE basketball history, is not out of the question.
“We have a great team,” he said. “We have a lot of chemistry. I think we can beat any team.”
Authored by Arik Armstead, Bruce Mayfield
Wednesday, March 1, 2017
Coach David Scheiman takes Lady Dragons to new heights
Coach David Scheiman has led the High School for Math Science and Engineering Lady Dragons basketball team to the playoffs in three consecutive seasons. In doing so, he has helped many players at the school develop their skills and their basketball mentality. Scheiman has been influential to these student athletes, both as a coach and teacher.
He became the head coach of the Lady Dragons in 2015, taking over a losing team with a 7-9 record. They have come a long way since, sporting a winning record in the three consecutive seasons and a playoff win. He expressed his hands-off approach when it comes to his role in the development of the team.
“I’m more of a player’s coach,” he said. “I kind of let the players dictate what they want to do. Of course I have control, but I think the important part is to give the players the ability to think on their own.”
This approach has been a proven winner, as their record keeps on improving and his players continue to look up to him. The relationship between Scheiman and his players was put on display during senior night when he awarded his graduating seniors with gifts to show his appreciation for them, including a ring for thousand point scorer Annabelle Shultz.
Over the past three years, Scheiman has experienced a tremendous amount of success as the head coach of the HSMSE girls basketball team. A great part of this success has been thanks to the play of Shultz, who in the 2015-2016 season was the leading scorer in the city; however, even with her absence next year, Scheiman is still confident for the team's future success.
“We have a core nucleus coming back and we’re only missing two starters and I think everybody will have to step up a little bit in the future,” he said.
He feels that the team's hard work will play a big role in the team’s success next season. He emphasized the importance of their practice routines during the offseason.
“If they take it seriously and really work hard, I think we can be very good next year and in playoff contention,” he said.
He became the head coach of the Lady Dragons in 2015, taking over a losing team with a 7-9 record. They have come a long way since, sporting a winning record in the three consecutive seasons and a playoff win. He expressed his hands-off approach when it comes to his role in the development of the team.
“I’m more of a player’s coach,” he said. “I kind of let the players dictate what they want to do. Of course I have control, but I think the important part is to give the players the ability to think on their own.”
This approach has been a proven winner, as their record keeps on improving and his players continue to look up to him. The relationship between Scheiman and his players was put on display during senior night when he awarded his graduating seniors with gifts to show his appreciation for them, including a ring for thousand point scorer Annabelle Shultz.
 |
| Annabelle Schultz receives ring from coach Scheiman on senior night / T. Henning |
Over the past three years, Scheiman has experienced a tremendous amount of success as the head coach of the HSMSE girls basketball team. A great part of this success has been thanks to the play of Shultz, who in the 2015-2016 season was the leading scorer in the city; however, even with her absence next year, Scheiman is still confident for the team's future success.
“We have a core nucleus coming back and we’re only missing two starters and I think everybody will have to step up a little bit in the future,” he said.
He feels that the team's hard work will play a big role in the team’s success next season. He emphasized the importance of their practice routines during the offseason.
“If they take it seriously and really work hard, I think we can be very good next year and in playoff contention,” he said.
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