During the 2013 NCAA Tournament one of the greatest stories in Collegiate history has unfolded before our eyes. Florida Gulf Coast University has taken the NCAA Tournament by storm soaring their way into the colleges elite Sweet Sixteen. In only their second year of tournament eligibility FGCU Eagles have embarked on a college changing experience. While this appears to be a David versus Goliath film script, the Eagles are playing like a team with more than just a stone in a sling shot..
Head Coach Andy Enfield's young players Sherwood Brown, Bernard Thompson, Chase Fieler, Eric Mc Knight and Brett Comer appear to be in sync playing in a zone. Team chemistry and trust is peaking apparent by the helter skelter type passes Comer tosses to driving teammates on fast breaks almost out of thin air. Allowing athletes to play a lose brand of exciting basketball that fits their personality coach Enfield's Eagles have become the Cinderellas of these 2013 NCAA Tournaments.
Florida Gulf Coast’s Sherwood Brown (center) celebrates with teammates after their 81–71 win over San Diego State in the NCAA college basketball tournament Sunday in Philadelphia. (Michael Perez/AP)
Defeating #2 Georgetown in the first round of 64 was monumental but far from the beginning of this great story . On November 13th 2012, FGCU faced heavily favored Miami Hurricanes in Fort Myers Florida as 7.5 point underdogs. Brown and Mc Knight scored 14 points each and Thompson contributed 13 points as FGCU defeated Miami 63-51 in front of a sold out crowd of 4,552 at Alico Arena. How good was Eagles versus the Hurricanes? FGCU outscored Miami 40-14 in points in the paint, while flashing off 6 fast break dunks which have become their trademark in the tournament.
This season including the NCAA Tournament FGCU has faced VCU, Miami, Duke, Georgetown and San Diego State going a combined 3-2 after losing the season opener to VCU. Remember it's not how you start but how you finish and the Eagles have premiere collegiate talent at every position on the court. The state of Florida has three teams alive in the field of sixteen and next on FGCU's "Road to the Final Four" is an in state match-up against the Florida Gators. A win on Friday against the Gators will propel the Eagles up the Florida food chain and into NCAA's Elite 8.
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Shauntia Norfleet daughter of
former NASCAR driver Bobby Norfleet is a second generation NASCAR car driver.
Tia is also the "First African American Female" driver licensed by
NASCAR as a professional late model series driver. It is well documented that
NASCAR is a sport that lacks growth in diversity, predominately dominated by
white males. So it’s rare when you look over in lane 4 or 5 and see
professional race car athletes like Tia sitting in her #34 Chevy, revving up
her engine.
Tia started racing at the tender
age of 14 performing in Kart Racing events and then continuing her young career
in drag racing winning 37 of her 52 competing events. In 2000 Tia switched from drag racing to
stock car competitions participating in Badolero racing events. Bandolero
racing events feature young athletes ages 8- 16 competing on 1/4 mile, 3/8 mile
and 4/10 mile courses and dirt tracks.
Then in 2010 under the guidance of
her father Bobby, Tia became the first female African American driver to
receive a NASCAR late model racing license. Her first late model competitions
took place in local events in Augusta GA. While this should be a cherished
moment for a young female athlete who now resides in Atlanta GA the home of the
civil rights movement, many news reports have been placed to discredit her hard
working achievements.
In a New York Times article
published March 6th 2013 and conducted by Viv Bernstein points out the
following in her article. "In speaking engagements with students and in
news media interviews, Norfleet has for several years portrayed herself as an
accomplished driver in the sport. She has sought sponsorships and has a PayPal
account on her Web site, which includes articles and videos about her
achievements." What NYT reporter Bernstein does not point out is the fact
that, Bernstein has harassed and called several principals at these schools for
having Tia participating in speaking engagements. What kind of reporter goes
out of their way to find out what schools an athlete will be conducting awareness
and empowerment speeches to encourage students and then harasses the principals
and school officials? What reporter calls news organizations and belittles them
for attempting to conduct articles, follow-up stories, and interviews with
Norfleet?
Next the Bernstein writes "Her
Web site, Tianorfleet34.com, indicates that she intends to compete in a full
schedule this season in Nascar’s Nationwide Series, one rung below the top-tier
Sprint Cup series. But Norfleet is not licensed to compete at that level."
I believe looking up the definition of the word intends/intent is to Have (a
course of action) as one's purpose or objective; plan: as in "we intend to
leave". So yes Norfleet intends to race or participate in the NASCAR
Nationwide Series. Notice this is a NASCAR event used as a proving ground for
NASCAR licensed drivers to move up into the ranks of the big league racing.
This is a great event for a late model series racer such as Norfleet to compete
in and move up the ranks of NASCAR. Last sentence “But Norfleet is not licensed
to compete at that level" Bernstein's comment does not reflect or prove in
any way that Norfleet does not have a license. It simply states that she is not
licensed to compete at that level. So Norfleet does have a license huh, just
not at that level, but can she obtain a license at that level, and Norfleet has
the intentions to obtain a license at that level.
Remember we all start somewhere in
life, most as entry level workers or assistants in our everyday job. Because
one is an assistant or entry level manager it does not mean you’re not a
manager. It simply means that you are a manager in training or a manager
looking to achieve at the next level. There may be some other qualifications
you need in order to achieve that ultimate goal.
Norfleet is simply taking the
steps, to achieve her ultimate goal, she has held qualifications for a NASCAR
license since 2010 and she is the first African American Female to obtain a
NASCAR license at any level in the sport of NASCAR racing. Viv Bernstein is what we call a hater, a
reporter who has tried to shutter mud at an historic figure in the African
American community. One who according to those close to Norfleet tried to
conduct an interview over two years ago and due to Bernstein's interviewing
comments and harsh tone failed to complete that very same interview. Now
Bernstein works for NYT and has used her position to spew discouraging remarks
and statements about Norfleet.
Instead of following the ways of
hatred and continuing with her remarks I ask all reporters and news outlets to
look further into this matter before writing, printing or taking to the
airwaves to continue with Bernstein's attacks. Remember we all start off
somewhere at some level in life.
Congratulations to Ms. Tia Norfleet you are a symbol that through hard
work and perseverance nothing should ever stop us from achieving our ultimate
goal.
To learn more about Tia Norfleet check out the following helpful websites and articles:
Tia Norfleet official website: http://www.tianorfleet34.com/
OurTown News Stone Mountain GA http://www.ourtown.com/stonemountainga/article/2011/9/16/nascars-up-and-coming.html
Official Tia Norfleet Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tianorfleet
Atlanta Falcons released Michael
Turner and John Abraham. Turner and Abraham once represented the
heart & soul of the Atlanta Falcons. Contributing to 3 straight playoff
appearances from 2009-2013, two players who changed the misfortunes of the
Falcons. The two veterans played pivotal roles in leading the Falcons to the
2013 NFC Championship against the San Francisco 49ers. With these two leaders
departing who will the Falcons lean onto to replace two franchise cornerstones?
The argument for releasing Turner
is the fact that he has reached passed the "death age" for NFL
running backs. Turner turned 31 back in February. There are several options
available on the open NFL market and both under the infamous age of 30. Reggie
Bush age 28 seems to be a good, yet expensive Free Agent who has worked hard
and achieved the role of a every down back. Drafted by the New Orleans Saints,
the Falcons have the most game tape and film study covering Bush, than any
other franchise searching for answers at the running back position. Several rumor have emerged that Bush could
end up pairing with Calvin Johnson and Matthew Stafford in Detroit.
Representing one of the best triple threat combo’s in the NFL.
Steven Jackson (age 29) according
to media reports has the greatest chance of replacing Turner in Atlanta.
Jackson a powerful running back recorded 1042 yards on 251 carries averaging
4.1 per carry slightly under career average of 4.2, showcasing that Jackson can
still be a solid performer for NFL suitors. Recently Jackson sat with Sirius XM
NFL Radio "For where I'm at, going into Year 10, I'm not ready to step
back and just become a primary backup or a reduced role guy to be part of a
running back by committee,". Adding Jackson to the roster would give
Falcons an Oregon State Beavers backfield of Rodgers and Jackson. Affording
Jackson the opportunity for a featured role with a Super Bowl contender.
John Abraham was released and
immediately Falcons soon to be NFC rivals started calling Abrahams agent. The
Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers emerged as Abraham's first visits
during free agency. Both franchises are set to contend for the 2014 Super Bowl
next season. How will the Falcons feel the void of a Hall of Fame worthy
Defensive End who recorded 10 sacks last season? Abraham’s ten sacks
represented 1/3rd of the Falcons overall total as a team last season.
News has emerged that the Falcons
could look take a look at Michael Bennett (Buccaneers) and Cliff Avril (Lions).
Bennett recorded a career best nine sacks during 2012-2013 season. At age 27,
6ft 4in and 254 pounds Bennett is a defensive weapon entering into the
beginning of his prime. Among 4-3 defensive ends Bennett is probably the best
agent available meaning the price tag could be pricey for his services.
Avril tabbed as the best NFL defensive end on
a open market that features Osi Umenyiora, and Richard Seymour is entering his
sixth NFL season. Recorded 20 1/2 sacks over the past two seasons could anchor
the Falcons defense for several upcoming seasons. While the two mentioned young
defensive ends can produce at a Pro Bowl type level Thomas Dimitroff doesn't
seem inclined on handing out huge contracts to outside free agents next
season. ESPN's Pat Yasinskas reports
"General Manager Thomas Dimitroff has made it pretty clear he wants to
take care of his own guys first. That means cornerback Brent Grimes, safety
William Moore and left tackle Sam Baker are tops on the list. Oh, and the
Falcons also want to sign quarterback Matt Ryan to a long-term extension
sometime this offseason. And tight end Tony Gonzalez might decide to return for
one more season".
Personal Opinion: Dimitroff's
statement leaves us with the impression that Falcons are looking to the draft
or toward lower end free agency to replace Abraham and Turner. Leaving Chris
Canty (Giants), Ricky Jean Francois (49ers), and Jason Jones (Seahawks) as the
free agents Falcons might covet the most. Rumors have Falcons eyeing Dwight
Freeney and Osi Umenyiora, I don't buy the Freeney rumors of high interest. Yes
some interest is there but its cliche' because every team has interest in a
free agent player. Umenyiora I am buying as solid, age 31 a solid veteran who
can provide a few seasons of strong play at a valuable position. Providing
leadership and championship experience with a high level of play can send this
Falcons team to a new level. Truth is Falcons have put themselves in a
unsettling position by releasing Abraham and Turner. Atlanta would have to make
a draft day trade to move up in the draft to acquire a young talent capable of
"Filling the Void of T&A".
What more can I say about Dennis
Rodman that the "Worm"' hasn't already proven himself. Putting
himself in a national / worldwide spotlight with his self-proclaimed new BFF
North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un. Dennis Rodman participated in a Harlem
Globetrotter tour to the rouge nation last week. In a visit NBA Commissioner
David Stern described to CBS news as "Ridiculous, I think that if you're
going to meet someone with the record on human rights, and nuclear testing in a
reckless way, counterfeiting U.S. dollars, and exporting a horrible brand of
whatever it is that he's exporting, starving his people, and locking them up,
it should be done only in conjunction with the State Department with an agenda.
If not, you shouldn't go."
Obviously we live in a unsettled
world one where dictators like Kim Jung Un rules over a nation of people with
whip and fist. Starving the people of North Korea to death and sending children
into prison work camps. When Americans travel overseas we do so knowing with
caution, especially since the events of 9/11 where shortly after President Bush
named North Korea as part o the axis of evil. It's apparent Rodman resides in
another altered universe where treating children like rabid animals and
starving the elderly of medical care is accepted.
In a recent interview with George
Stephanopoulos on ABC this week. He spoke as if he was an serving as perhaps an
ambassador of the United States to North Korea. Describing Kim Jong Un as a
humble friend to him that happens to like control and power. Well thanks Rodman
we appreciate, you telling us that the dictator who kills and torchers his own
citizens and continues to make threats to the United States is obsessed with
the feeling of power and control. Rodman later described Jong Un an awesome
person and personal friend of his. Exclaiming that he knows about Jong Un's
threats and understands the human rights records of the rouge leader. His
comments were borderline treason in some aspects, as he was wined and dined by
North Korea's dictator.
No Dennis, Kim Jack-In-The Crack is
not your friend he is an evil dictator. One of whom continues to work on
nuclear weapons in order to bomb the United States. Rodman claimed that his new
BFF wanted no war with the United States and simply wanted a phone from President
Obama to talk about basketball. Well, making nuclear death threats sounds
nothing like a simple phone call to talk about a piece of round leather that
bounces on hardwood floor. I fail to know of one American that purchases a
passport so they can visit Osama Bin Laden, Hitler, Saddam Hussein or Kim Jong
Un. Then proclaim the dictators as nice guys who want a glass of cold milk and
a cookie.
A few days after Rodman's visit to
the inhumane dictator who runs prison camps out of children, while depriving an
entire country of nourishment. Kim Jong Un again threatens the United States
again. As I am writing this article I am almost sure the secret service has
placed Dennis "The Menace" on some type of international watch list.
At end of Rodman's interview he tells
Stephanopoulos "don't you hate me". No Rodman we don't hate and I
doubt Stephanopoulos hates you as well but stardom is not an excuse for
ignorance. So the next time Rodman worms his way into North Korea dining on 15
course meal of sushi, turkey, beef filet, kimchi, and whole roasted pig.
Hopefully he takes some time to think of the cruel starvation and beat up hands
of the citizens who prepared the food. Rodman probably ate more at one seating
than most citizens in the impoverished land will eat all year. For Americans
looking to travel overseas let this serve as your exclusive "Passport for
Dummies" article. In the end we know its just Dennis being Dennis, hopefully he can rebound from this.....
Also check out Pro Sports Lives (Atlanta GA 1190AM) at http://www.prosportslives.com/ every Saturday 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM EST.... "NEW" Tune into our weekly Sportscast on Gellar Sports Radio www.gsportsradio.com
Joe Flacco you know the guy who
kept telling the entire league that he was an elite Quarterback. You know the
guy who was playing the role of the "4th Stooge" on the Baltimore
Ravens, while taking a back seat to Ray Lewis, Ed Reed and Terrell Suggs. Joe
Flacco the NFL Quarterback of a team known for their prolific defense and lack
of offensive ability. I could go on and on but hey let's face it he’s no Trent
Dilfer, this Baltimore Ravens team was more than just a squad full of defensive
players past their prime searching for that last moment of glory.
Joe Flacco the self-proclaimed
great QB is no longer just running his mouth his running to the bank and he
deserves it. Flacco talked and played his way into a 6 yr/ $120.6 million deal.
Why? Because he backed it up, he believed in the power of self-worth. When
Ravens front office approached Flacco with an extension offer Flacco refused.
Refused to sell himself short in an NFL where quarterbacks the likes of Philip
Rivers and Sam Bradford are collecting over $15 million/ per season. During the
2012-2013 season "Big Money Joe" played for almost half of that
price. Seriously Flacco earned $8.8 million last season playing off of his
original rookie contract.
Coming into the last season of his
rookie contract Flacco had yet to throw for 4,000 yards or pass for 25
touchdowns in a regular season and 86.0 passer rating was pedestrian to NFL
standards. Well guess what? Flacco still has yet to accomplish those feats as
he passed for 3,817 yards, 22 TD's and held a 87.7 passer rating. No his stats
don't jump out at you, Flacco's not out their throwing for 5,000 yards and 45
TD's per season but when you are an efficient quarterback you don't need
ridiculous stats to prove yourself worth. No need to throw the pigskin 727
times for 4,967 yards (Matthew Stafford).
Since Flacco's rookie season in
2008 he has stayed in his own lane becoming the best at what he does, while
developing his confidence and becoming the type of NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez
was suppose to be. To remix a Jay-Z
verse "Guess You Can Call Big Money Joe the CEO of the DMV Oh"....
Also check out Pro Sports Lives (Atlanta GA 1190AM) at http://www.prosportslives.com/ every Saturday 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM EST.... "NEW" Tune into our weekly Sportscast on Gellar Sports Radio www.gsportsradio.com
