December 2012 S&L

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SPORTS & LEISURE MAGAZINE

December 2012

December 2012

SPORTS & LEISURE MAGAZINE

In Buffalo, Chandler’s not lost in the shuffle

By Charles Roberts He stands 6-foot-7 and weighs 260 pounds, yet Scott Chandler had a tough time getting noticed before he joined the Buffalo Bills, late in the 2010 season.

Chandler, a tight end, was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in 2007. However, with all-world tight end Antonio Gates—a sure-fire Hall of Famer—as the team’s cornerstone at the position, Chandler didn’t have much of an opportunity to gain ground. He was waived after the 2009 season, never logging a statistic.

The Dallas Cowboys brought Chandler in for training camp in 2009, but waived him during final cuts, later re-signing him to the practice squad. The New York Giants ended up snatching him from the Cowboys’ practice squad on Dec. 22, 2009, but released him during final cuts in 2010, at the time with tight end Kevin Boss on the roster. After being waived by the Giants, the Cowboys once again signed Chandler to the practice squad, activating him Sept. 24, 2010.

However, with Jason Witten—another future Hall of Fame tight end—ahead of him, the Cowboys didn’t have much room for Chandler. He was released Dec. 1, 2010 and

a two-year contract extension.

Statistics aside, Chandler has filled in admirably for wide receiver David Nelson, who suffered a season-ending injury in Week 1. His quarterback, Ryan Fitzpatrick, certainly took notice.

“Scott is a guy that has had to step up and sort of fill that role in terms of being a thirddown guy and being a guy that is going to be in there a majority of the time,” Fitzpatrick said. “No longer in the four wide receiver sets, but the three-wide and Scott.”

That’s all fine and dandy, for the guy they call “Chandy.” He’s just glad he’s got a place to rest his bones.

“I couldn’t be happier with how things worked out,” Chandler said before the season. “It’s a good feeling knowing that my family has a place to live and we know we’re going to be here.”

Photo by Joe Valenti At the end of the day, one guy who can share After years of uncertainty in San Diego, Dallas, New York and back the credit for Chandler’s to Dallas, Scott Chandler found a success story is Bills genhome in Buffalo. eral manager Buddy Nix. He drafted him in San Diego, kept tabs on his downs. progress, and finally found a It’s safe to say, he’s a part of role for him in Buffalo. It’s not the Bills’ future plans and vice the most traditional road, but versa. As such, Chandler and for Chandler, at least it has a his wife, Alissa, purchased a house that he can comforthome in Hamburg, not long ably call home. after the Bills made good with was signed the next day by the Bills. He caught just one pass for eight yards that season, but in 2011, the previously nomadic tight end transformed into a scoring machine, hauling in six touchdowns on 38 receptions.

At the midway point in 2012, Chandler is on pace to surpass last year’s production, already with 22 receptions for 285 yards and four touch-

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Bills will need a steady dose of Jackson and especially Spiller, down the stretch

By Charles Roberts ognized by Gailey. that.”

“Yeah, we would like to Spiller’s yards-per-carry If there’s one lesson that and we got to try to do that average through eight games came from the first half of on a more consistent basis,” isn’t just impressive by the season for the Buffalo Gailey said in Houston. today’s standards. It’s the Bills, it’s that running backs “Some weeks are better than second highest since 1960, C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson others and sometimes they trailing only legendary will need to play a big part take things away from you Cleveland Browns running in the second half. And that you don’t think they’re back Jim Brown, who averthat’s not just related to the going to do but they did. aged 7.33 in 1963. The mark season, in general; it’s the They [the Texans] surprised also surpasses former Bills second half of the contest in us with a defense we hadn’t great O.J. Simpson, who which the Bills need their seen very much and we had held the franchise record top two weapons the most. to alter. I got to do a Spiller and better job of adjustJackson have preing. ” sented exactly the The Bills met the challenge for season’s midway opposing defenders point with a 3-5 the Bills had hoped record. In each of for, but the dynamthe three wins, ic duo has seemingSpiller had a touchly disappeared in down, including the second half. two against the At the season’s Kansas City Chiefs halfway point, during a seasonSpiller averaged an high 15-carry pereye-popping 7.2 formance. Against yards per carry, the the Cleveland NFL’s best.

Browns in Week 3, However, with the Spiller propelled Bills often playing the Bills with a 32catch-up, the team yard touchdown has relied more on reception, before the passing game. missing the rest of An example of such the contest with a occurred in Photo by Joe Valenti dinged-up shoulHouston, during C.J. Spiller will need to play a big role in the Bills’ offense in the season’s second half. der. the Week 9 meeting “He is a dynamic with the Texans. playmaker,” Fitzpatrick said with a 6.02 average in 1973, Spiller ran the ball six times of Spiller. “We have seen en route to the league’s first for 39 yards and caught five that time and time again.

2,000-yard season (2,003). passes for 63 yards. Of his The tail end of last year and “I mean the story of the 11 combined touches, even what he has done this day for us is we’ve got to get though, only three came in year, he is a guy we have to C.J. more touches,” Bills the second half. get him to touch the ball. quarterback Ryan The Bills trailed, 7-6, in Even in the game with a Fitzpatrick said after the Houston when they opened couple of the screen passes Week 9 matchup. “I think on offense to start the secand a couple of the runs that everybody knows that and ond half. Rather than run he had, he touches the ball we’ve got to find ways to do the ball, however, head and he makes plays. That is that.” coach Chan Gailey dialed up something that we know.

I guess he must have three straight pass plays, That is no secret. That is not looked at the stat line,” resulting in a three-and-out. something that we came up Spiller said of Fitzpatrick’s “I take advantage of every with overnight watching the comments. “That is the only opportunity that I get,” film. We know we have to way. Everybody knows what Spiller said. “I do not sit get him the ball and we just type of playmaker that I am down with the coaches and have to find ways to do it.” and we have a lot of playbeg them for the ball. That is Gailey is known for his makers on offense. We have not my job description. My complex offensive systems, to just score touchdowns job description is to go out but if the Bills are going to and do the little things that there, make plays and score get over the hump in the will help us win games.” touchdowns for the team. second half—game and seaUnderstanding that We have a great offensive son—things will likely go Spiller—a standout at the staff that knows how to utiback to the basics, like collegiate level and budding lize players. I do not have to “pounding the rock,” as they NFL star—needs to become sit around, mope, be mad or say. more active in the offense try to go upstairs and talk to certainly hasn’t gone unrecthe coaches. I do not do

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SPORTS & LEISURE MAGAZINE

From the Publisher As hockey fans still cling to the hope that the players and the owners can come to an agreement and salvage at least part of the season, the NFL has already hit the halfway point and is very quickly approaching the final stretch of the season.

Both literally and figuratively, C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson have been leading the charge for the Bills.

Spiller is putting up nearhistoric number in yards per carry and Jackson provides a no less dynamic one-two counterpunch. Injuries earlier in the season as well as second half deficits have forced the Bills to rely on the passing game, but if fans— not to mention quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick—have their way there may be a lot more 28 and 22 in critical situations.

While Spiller and Jackson may very deservedly be receiving the lion’s share of praise when it comes to the offense, Scott Chandler is very quietly proving time

and time again how important it is to have a quality tight end. After sitting behind Antonio Gates in San Diego and Jason Witten in Dallas, Chandler has exploded in Buffalo, scoring six touchdowns last year and is on pace to exceed that number this season. With a contract extension in place and the ability to fill in for hurt receivers, Chandler should remain a fixture of the Bills’ offense for seasons to come.

Our columnist Mike Dyer is one of approximately 500 people who can vote on the 2013 Hall of Fame selections and he IS the only Hall of Fame voter living in WNY. This year there is a cast of controversial figures who may be entering the Halls where the likes of greats such as Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Walter Johnson and Ty Cobb reside. Check out Mike’s article and see if you agree with his picks.

Also, we want to wish Mike well as he is on the mend.

Speaking of Halls of Fame, our writer, Bob Caico, was recently inducted into the Rochester Boxing Hall of Fame. Bob has been reporting on the local boxing scene for many years. He is dedicated to the boxing community and to his family and friends. His friend Jack Green details some of Bob’s many accomplishments.

Congratulations Bob! Congratulations are also in order for Rick Jeanneret, the longtime voice of the Sabres, who was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

As we transition from Fall to Winter, there are many ways to enjoy our region. In this edition, we feature our Winter Fun/Holiday Gift Guide. From snow tubing to skiing to interesting indoors activities, check out our special pullout, which will surely give you ideas on what to do this winter.

See you in December!

Sports & Leisure Magazine 469 Virginia Street, Buffalo, New York 14202 Tel.: (716) 876-2738, Fax: (716) 874-8289 Email to: publisher@sportsandleisuremag.com Check us out on the web at www.sportsandleisuremag.com & www.hugesportz.com

Publisher & Editor Marian Giallombardo Associate Editor Jeffrey Levine Feature Writers Paul Adamo, Robert Caico, Rick Davenport, Mike Dyer, Mike Fox, Ivan the Impaler, Ed Kilgore, Joe Kirchmyer, George Kuhn, Jeffrey Levine, Sloan Martin, Adam McGill, Brian Michalek, Ron Montesano, Len Mytko, Gary Reeves, Charles Roberts, Dave Sully, John Williams, Rick Zurak (golf editor) Chief Photographer Jeff Barnes Staff Photographers Ryan Bartholomew, Bob Conlon, Nick LoVerde, Joe Valenti, Mike Majewski, Holly Malinowski Cover photos C. J. Spiller by Jeff Barnes, World Series by Charles Roberts, Tubing courtesy Colden Tubing Advisory Board Phil Haberstro, Adam Lingner, Denny Lynch Contributing Writers Amy Biber, David Brzkcy PT, Todd Etshman, Jack Green, Holly Malinowski, Brian Mazurowski, Nicole Mosher SPT, Bob Plezia, Kyle Soppe, Paige Timkey, Bob Timkey, Nanette Tramont Layout & Cover Scott Appleby, Graphic artist Liz Seivert Copy Editors and Office Assistants Len Mytko, Justin Vernold, John Williams Please send your letters, questions, and comments to: Sports & Leisure Magazine, 469 Virginia Street, Buffalo, NY 14202 or e-mail publisher@sportsandleisuremag.com. Please include your name, address and phone number or your letter can’t be published. All letters and responses become the property of Sports & Leisure Magazine, they may be printed, and are subject to editing. Sports & Leisure Magazine is circulated throughout Western New York and Southern Ontario. All rights and trademarks reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the express written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. ©1997 2012 Sports & Leisure Inc.Facebook: Sports and Leisure Magazine and Hugesportz.com

December 2012

December 2012

Future Bills in Canada or Southern California?

By Ed Kilgore My immediate reaction when Rocco Termini mentioned his idea to me about the possibility of pursuing a new stadium for the Bills in or around Hamilton, Ontario, was total skepticism.

Hamilton? Aren’t they still mad at us for not wanting them to have an NHL team?

But the more he laid it out, the more I realized a couple things; some people have vision while the rest of us are wearing bifocals. If you have yet to check out the Hotel Lafayette downtown since

SPORTS & LEISURE MAGAZINE Rocco spruced it up, by all means do so, and you’ll see what I mean by vision. He was advised by most people not to invest in this once grand but fading facility, but he looked at the dust and stained chandeliers and saw what it COULD be, not what it was.

Buffalo needs people with vision, but more than that, people who can get things done. We have lots of the former and few of the latter. Bass Pro? A new signature bridge?

The waterfront being fully developed? We’re getting there with a crawl, but we could at least be jogging by thinking outside the box a bit.

It isn’t about what we think we deserve or what’s fair. It’s about how we maximize a huge resource, and that’s the people who are near us who live across the border in Canada. We need to acknowledge it benefits all of us to think in terms of this being a region, with Toronto the hub.

That’s where the power is, and all we need to consider is tapping some of that power while not giving away the farm. It can be done.

Forget for a moment the Bills are going through yet another disappointing season.

Most of us still identify with them and love it when they win and curse them when they lose, but they are Buffalo’s most visible identity

to the rest of the world by FAR. Even now, in other countries, you’ll see an occasional Bills jersey that goes back to the Super Bowl teams of the 90s. Many of these people have never even been to Buffalo, and some make it a point to get here at some point to see for themselves what all the fuss is about.

It was purely coincidental that the same day Termini revealed his vision of Hamilton we also saw a beautiful drawing of a splendid waterfront stadium downtown. Now THAT’S what we’re all talking about, and that’s exactly what all of us would love to see unfold in the not-so-distant future.

Here’s where it gets murky though.

One of the main reasons now 94-year old Ralph Wilson is able to keep ticket prices at or near the bottom of the NFL every year is because he has no debt. The Bills are one of the only teams in the NFL with that situation, but right now who knows how long that distinction will last if rumors of Ralph’s failing health are true. I hope Ralph lives to be 105 and laughs at us all, but it isn’t premature to think about the future of the Bills and their relationship with Buffalo.

No matter how wealthy a new owner might be, and

Buffalo has a big-time connection to this year’s World Series

By Charles Roberts There wasn’t exactly a player with a deep-rooted connection to Western New York at the 2012 World Series, but there was a company right in the thick of things.

Buffalo-based since its 1915 inception, Delaware North Companies, through its Sportservice division, lent its services in the way of merchandise and all things culinary at Comerica Park, home to the American League champion Detroit Tigers, during this year’s World Series.

With a relationship that dates back to 1930, the Tigers are Sportservice’s longest-running client.

Leaning on more than 80 years of experience at the

big-league level, the locally based but global-in-size hospitality company called upon an additional 225 associates—including 10 of its certified executive chefs—to give Tigers fans a Fall Classic to remember, regardless of what happened on the field.

Concession stands, suites and clubs at the ballpark all featured a number of creative menu additions, including the Triple Crown Burger, a three-patty, hand-pressed, all-beef cheeseburger, named after Tigers slugger Miguel Cabrera. Inside the ballpark’s Tiger Club Sportservice’s culinary prowess was on full display; ice sculptures and even an ice-made bar complemented chef-attended stations featuring such tastes as ahi tuna with a sesame

wasabi drizzle, and seared prime tenderloin with cognac cream sauce. And the Sportservice-operated retail store at Comerica Park, The D Shop, was a hustle-andbustle scene not only during the two World Series games, but in the preceding days, too.

The Buffalo-based effort was hardly unnoticed. Both the retail and specialty food items—all added for the World Series—were featured by several morning television shows, and even caught the attention of ESPN and the LA Times.

Delaware North Companies’ history in baseball dates back nearly 100 years. In the summer of 1915, three brothers, Marvin, Charles and Louis Jacobs,

Ralph has made it clear the team will be auctioned after his passing, that new owner will finance at least half of the franchise cost. It would be stupid to pay all cash, and anybody that can afford to buy an NFL team isn’t dumb.

The Cleveland Browns just sold for an even billion, and the Bills would be somewhere in that ballpark most likely.

How would the Bills, in the 51st TV market, make up the difference once there is a debt load that large?

A new stadium and higher priced suites. Neither of these items is likely for Buffalo, no matter how great the drawings look or how much we wish it so. On the other hand, a stadium halfway between Buffalo and Toronto is a different beast altogether. Like Foxboro is between Boston and Providence. Kansas City season ticket holders come from South Dakota, Oklahoma, Wyoming and other states, and it’s the same way for many NFL teams. The Bills have been hugely successful in making the team more regional in recent years, moving training camp to Rochester and playing some games in Toronto.

Not only that, if you add Toronto to the mix in terms of the Buffalo Bills’ market size, they go from small market to large market instantly.

Page 5 The initial reaction to the games in Toronto, from the Canadian perspective, was either ho-hum or outright negative. But gradually, even with a crummy team, the Bills are growing on Canadians.

The crowds are becoming more enthusiastic and we’re seeing more Bills clothing, not to mention the growing number of season ticket holders coming from Ontario. The number is estimated at 15-20 percent and growing. While the Canadian reaction has been a bit blasé, the increased revenue has been huge for the Bills and will continue to be in future years.

Another interesting aspect of Termini’s idea is that the Bills would remain headquartered in Buffalo. Their corporate offices would be here and they would practice here. On Sundays they would simply ride a bus to the stadium in less than an hour, which is close to what many teams do anyway. Rather than spend $250 million of the state’s money to spruce up the Ralph, use that money to build a state-of-the-art practice facility on the Buffalo waterfront, and use it as a convention center when the Bills aren’t there.

Are there negatives to this idea? Geez, where do we even start? Traffic at the bridges for one thing. Different tax laws

and different currencies. How do we distribute the revenue?

The list goes on and on, and this isn’t even touching on the issue that might be the elephant in the room: there is an underlying feeling that we don’t want to share anything with our Canadian friends, and no doubt many of them feel exactly the same way about the USA in general and Buffalo in particular.

Hey, how do we know the Toronto big shots would even stand by and allow something like this to happen? They have an arrogance of sorts that comes with knowing they have the financial resources to handle assets that are far more valuable than Buffalo can afford. They realize they won’t get the Bills or any NFL team for awhile, but would they give up the dream of a Toronto team of the future to settle for the bird in the hand that would be Hamilton?

Bills fans can’t seem to agree on a lot of things.

Should Chan Gailey be fired now or after the season?

Should Mario Williams be benched? How about Fitz?

Bills fans DO seem to agree they do NOT want anything to do with a stadium anywhere in Canada, which may boil down to this: the Bills in Canada? Or Los Angeles?

Yards, returned as decided it was time a client in 2011, to expand their renewing a relasmall but growing tionship that theater concessions began decades ago business in Buffalo at Memorial into ballparks. By Stadium.

1919, the company T o d a y , had operations at Sportservice ballparks in Jersey serves fans at 10 City and Baltimore, Major League and began relying Baseball stadiums: less on theater conBusch Stadium cessions and more Photo by Charles Roberts (St. Louis on the sport of Cardinals); baseball, even Buffalo’s Delaware North Companies Sportservice proves during the 2012 World Comerica Park adopting the name Series that it’s not just a popcorn-and-peanut (Detroit Tigers); Sportservice in subexperience at the ballpark anymore.

Great American sequent years.

Ball Park (Cincinnati Reds); sports, operating at more In 1930, Sportservice—as Progressive Field (Cleveland than 50 professional venues it was officially named in Indians); Miller Park at present. Its long client 1926 after securing contracts (Milwaukee Brewers); Target relationships also include the at minor-league ballparks in Field (Minnesota Twins); Cincinnati Reds since 1936; Buffalo (Offerman Stadium) Rangers Ballpark in the company has served fans and Syracuse, N.Y.—won its Arlington (Texas Rangers); at Crosley Field, Riverfront first major-league contract, PETCO Park (San Diego Stadium, and now Great the Tigers.

Padres); Oriole Park at American Ball Park. The Through the years, Camden Yards (Baltimore Baltimore Orioles, for which Sportservice has established Orioles); and U.S. Cellular Sportservice provides food, long-lasting relationships Field (Chicago White Sox). beverage and retail services throughout Major League at Oriole Park at Camden Baseball and professional

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SPORTS & LEISURE MAGAZINE

Collecting Memories

with Mike Dyer

Photo by Jeff Barnes

Seven-time MVP, Barry Bonds is a controversal figure in MLB. Clemens. “He is a Hall of Famer to me,” Torre said.

“That is the way I feel about him.”

I didn’t interview Clemens after spring training in 1996.

He was easy with the media but unhittable to opposing players.

Clemens retired with SEVEN Cy Young awards and the 1986 Most Valuable Player Award. He was a 20game winner six times including 24-4 for Boston in 1986 and 20-3 for the Yankees in 2001. With 354 victories, Clemens is the ninth greatest winner in big league history.

What can we say about Bonds? The former Arizona State University star owns records for home runs in a season (73) and home runs lifetime (762). At the age of 40, Bonds batted .362 in 2004 with 45 home runs and 101 RBI and he was walked 232 times that season. A SEVEN-time MVP, Bonds was accused of obstructing justice but cleared by a grand jury.

Barry had his greatest season in 2001 when he batted .328 with 73 homers and 137 RBI. He was walked 177 times that season.

Both Sammy and Mike Piazza have also been accused of using steroids during their careers. Sosa posted a .273 lifetime average but hammered 609 home runs and is the only player ever to hit 60 home runs three times in a fouryear span.

Piazza, a former Met, finished with a .308 average and established a big league record of 427 home runs as a catcher.

YES, I am voting for Clemens, Bonds, Sosa and Piazza.

I also am voting for five others on the ballot. They are Jeff Bagwell, Tim Raines, Edgar Martinez, Larry Walker and Rafael Palmeiro.

Palmeiro, also involved in possible substance abuse, posted career marks of 3,020 hits and 569 home runs.

It’ll make good reading all winter as the voters discuss the merits of these great players. The Hall of Fame winners will be announced on Jan. 9, 2013. I can hardly wait.

UPCOMING SHOWS: Amherst show promoter Rob Schilling reports his next major show will be April 7 at the Hearthstone Manor in Depew.

Attendance was a little down for his October show but dealers say they sold many sports collectibles.

The Leonard Veterans of Foreign Wars Post on Walden Avenue in Cheektowaga hosts another free admission show Dec. 12 from 5 to 9 p.m.

Cheektowaga’s Mike Dyer, a Hall of Fame voter since 1983, can be found at most area sports card shows. He is the author of two sports books. You can reach him at mikedyer59@yahoo.com.

Top five fantasy basketball sleepers to watch in 2012

By Adam McGill The 2012 NBA season is already underway, which means fantasy basketball has also tipped off. There has been a huge increase in participants this fantasy basketball season, as thousands of former fantasy hockey fanatics move off the ice and onto the hardwood.

Like every year, this season has already had an array of young, breakout talent. To help you in your leagues, here are my top five sleepers to watch for the remainder of the 2012 fantasy basketball season.

5. SF Luol Deng, Chicago Bulls With star point guard Derrick Rose out for several months, Deng will only be more involved in the team’s offense. Deng has averaged 16 points a game throughout his career, so expect that number to go up as he takes several

Fantasy football: Playoff time

By Leonard J. Mytko

Clemens, Bonds lead controversial parade to Hall of Fame It’s a major league brawl.

It’s an uprising as the 540 members of the Baseball Writers Association of America vote on the 2013 Hall of Fame selections.

This year is different from all the others as Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds, Sammy Sosa and Mike Piazza all get their first opportunity to join baseball greats in Cooperstown, N.Y. I’m sure Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Walter Johnson and Ty Cobb can hardly wait to see what happens.

I remain the only Hall of Fame voter living in Western New York and I’ll tell you this is going to create a lot of controversy. I’ve voted since 1983 and have helped Johnny Bench, Gaylord Perry, Steve Carlton, and Mike Schmidt into the Hall of Fame.

Each of the voters can choose from zero to 10 names on their ballot for the Hall of Fame. To gain admission, a player must be listed on at least 75 percent of the ballots (three of every four).

Of course Clemens and Bonds have been in the headlines for many years....since suspicion they were not playing by all of the rules. Clemens, who is third all-time in career strikeouts, was accused of using performance-enhancing drugs but The Rocket was cleared of charges by a jury last June.

Former Yankees manager Joe Torre says he’d support a spot in Cooperstown for

December 2012

Photo courtesy NBA MediaCentral

Jrue Holiday has already put up big numbers for the Philadelphia 76ers and the scary thing is all signs indicate that they’ll continue to go up. more shots per game in 2012.

He is the most experienced shooter, so it only makes sense that he will likely lead the team in shots on a consis-

tent basis. Expect him to post 20 points a game this year and grab respectable rebound totals as well. Deng is without a doubt a starting small forward in the fantasy world, which gives him great value considering the veteran came several rounds later than most of the other starters at the position.

4. C Brook Lopez, Brooklyn Nets Lopez has averaged 19.5 points a game between the 2009-2011 seasons and has always been a reliable scoring option in the paint. Not many players who are center-eligible can drop 20 points a game, so the fact that Lopez is such a strong scorer only adds to his overall fantasy value.

Lopez broke his ankle last preseason and reinjured it when he attempted to return during the regular season, which is the only reason why he fell so far in drafts this year.

With the NFL season taking it’s second half turn, it’s about that time to prep up your fantasy team for this year’s exciting postseason run. And while most leagues use Weeks 14-16 as that point when championship titles are at stake, here’s a quick glance at some of your best options to head to the finish line with. So hopefully you’ll find at least one player from the list below on your fantasy squad for those owners looking a little ahead. Good luck!

Quarterbacks Joe Flacco, Baltimore: The Ravens get a pair of home games against the Manning brothers during this stretch, which has shootout written all over it once they get by the Robert Griffin III-led Redskins in Week 14. And even though Flacco’s numbers (2,331 passing yards, 15 total touchdowns) have been relatively modest all season long, he should be able to flourish during fantasy crunch time.

Drew Brees, New Orleans: With their defense second to last in giving up fantasy points and rushing yards, it’s easy to see the 33year-old gunslinger finishing strong against the Giants, Bucs, and Cowboys just to keep up on the scoreboard in the fantasy postseason run. Plus, keep in mind he threw for 377 yards and four scores earlier this season at Tampa Bay in a 35-28 win, so the chance for another high-scoring affair is certainly possible.

Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay: After a bit of a rocky start to his season, Rodgers has caught absolute fire with 22 touchdown passes in just his last six games. In an environment where quarterbacks are enormous difference-makers come fantasy playoff time, even a visit to Soldier field to play the Bears in Week 15 for the reigning league MVP

However, Lopez is looking healthy through the early part of the season and should easily post 18 points and nine rebounds a game this year. In most leagues he was not drafted before the tenth round, giving him amazing value if he can average a double-double this season.

3. PG Jrue Holiday, Philadelphia 76ers The 22-year-old is the future of the point guard position. He can score, distribute the basketball, and, more importantly, play defense.

Holiday showcased his unique skill set in the first game of the season, as he had 14 points, 11 assists, 6 rebounds, and 2 steals. He has been the main player in the 76ers’ offense through the first part of the season and has become a rotoleague superstar due to his

Photo by Joe Valenti

Quarterback Drew Brees has the Saints on a roll with fantasy playoff time fast approaching. shouldn’t be of major concern. He’ll also get the Lions and Titans at home so if he’s your No. 1 quarterback going in, you know who to stick with.

Running backs Doug Martin, Tampa Bay: The electrifying rookie from Boise State gets to start the fantasy playoffs against the very mediocre Philadelphia Eagles and then gets super favorable matchups against New Orleans and St. Louis. And for a back who went basically in the middle rounds of your drafts, that’s a very fantasy-friendly stretch in the making for his lucky owners.

Marshawn Lynch, Seattle: Opening up the fantasy playoffs with the Cardinals at home and the Bills in Toronto could be a big-time boon for Lynch owners at the start, but to close the fantasy playoffs against the stingy 49ers is a tough matchup for sure.

Although there’s a pretty good chance that the Seahawks will be battling for a playoff spot with their main division rival by then, Lynch could be of some help for decent numbers despite the tough opponent.

Wide receivers Roddy White and Julio Jones, Atlanta: Even though these two wideouts seem to alternate big games, any weapon from Matt Ryan’s

ability to fill out a stat sheet.

The scary thing is that this kid is still getting better.

2. SG O. J. Mayo, Dallas Mavericks Mayo has absolutely exploded through the first part of the season, as he has gone over 30 points twice in the team’s first four contests.

He has become the offensive focal point of the team with All-Star forward, Dirk Nowitzki, out with a knee injury. Mayo has earned his spot in the starting lineup this season and thus earned a spot in fantasy lineups as well. He can score in bunches and hit numerous three-pointers per game, both of which are priceless in fantasy terms.

1. PG Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers Lillard was taken in the first round (sixth overall) by

arsenal heading into the fantasy playoffs is a muststart. And so facing the Panthers, Giants and Lions is a dream stretch for Roddy and Julio owners out there.

Brandon Marshall, Chicago: Since Marty Booker’s 1,189 yards in 2002, the Bears have not had a 1,000-yard receiver.

As a result, fantasy playoff time certainly hasn’t favored the Bears’ passing game to say the least. However, now that Marshall’s been reunited with Jay Cutler, sparks have been flying. He’s well on his way to getting his sixth 1,000-yard season and gets to feast on the Vikings, Packers and Cardinals from Weeks 14 to 16.

Steve Smith, Carolina: It may have taken half the season for the veteran to find paydirt, but stay patient with Carolina’s best option in the passing game as long as Cam Newton is under center. In fact, Smith could see a late-season revival in the touchdown department playing keep up with Atlanta, San Diego and Oakland in their three-game postseason slate.

Tight end Heath Miller, Pittsburgh: On track for a double-digit year in touchdowns, Miller has been a favorite target of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger for years now. Getting both the Chargers and Bengals at home with Dallas sandwiched in-between is a perfect recipe for big No. 83 to rack up some late-season yards and scores.

Kicker Blair Walsh, Minnesota: With all three games indoors, the rookie kicker should be just fine and could possibly be a late-season rental in some leagues.

He’s been remarkably accurate in his first year, connecting on 23 of 24 field goals. As an additional plus in leagues giving bonuses for long field goals, he’s even hit on five three-pointers from 50-plus yards.

Portland in this past year’s draft and immediately earned the spot as the team’s starting point guard. Many deemed the former Weber State standout a controversial pick, but Lillard has fit into the Trail Blazers offensive scheme perfectly. In his first NBA game, Lillard scored 23 points and dished out an even more incredible 11 dimes. These numbers are not a fluke and are what people should expect from this young point guard all year because he can score, knows how to distribute the ball, and has a very high basketball IQ. He is quietly outproducing many of the star players at the point guard position and will be one of the best sleepers to keep an eye on throughout the 2012 season.

Start your pre-season training program before it snows

By David Brzykcy, PT, and Nicole Mosher, SPT Cool nights, changing leaves, and the snow sports lovers are beginning to fantasize about floating down slopes of fluffy powder. The time is getting near for the skiers and boarders to realize these dreams. Western New York is blessed with abundant heavy snowfall, and winter sports are the ideal way to enjoy the weather that somehow seems dreaded by many.

If you have been spending the summer at the beach or pool, your mind may be ready for the slopes, but your body may not quite be in shape to carve confidently down the hill. A pre-season training program may not only minimize risk of injury, but also improve your performance, allowing you to truly enjoy your days on the hill.

When beginning a sport-specific exercise program, there are a few

things to consider, and your physician should be consulted before commencing any exercise program.

A program to improve athletic performance needs to be based on exercises that are specific to the intended activity.

Traditional body-building exercises such as bench press, biceps curls, quad extensions, hamstring curls, etc, will be of little benefit. We recommend exercises that are designed not only to strengthen relevant muscle groups, but also to incorporate kinesthetic training, that is, dynamic movements that mimic the motions involved in skiing.

First, to start improving both strength and balance, stationary lunges are encouraged. The starting position for a lunge is feet shoulder width apart, hands held straight at your side, making sure your back is straight to maintain a neutral spine alignment.

To initiate a stationary

lunge place one leg, we’ll say the left, in front of the right as if you were going to take a large step forward, toes always pointed straight ahead. From here, all you do is drop your back knee (the right) towards the ground so it almost touches the ground, while lifting the right heel off the ground.

The front leg (left) should bend so that your thigh is parallel to the ground, ensuring that the right knee does not go past your toes to protect the knee from injury. Make sure you put all your weight through the front heel to push back up into the start position. Complete two sets of 10 with a 30 second break between sets then switch your foot placement (right in front of left) and repeat the same sequence as above. After this exercise is no longer a challenge, to advance you may consider adding a dumbbell (five-pounds to start, add weight as needed), and/or progress to a

What’s new at Swain?

Community Sports Report Situated in northern Allegany County, in lakeeffect snow region, Swain Resort provides affordable wintertime fun for families!

The mountain features 30 trails, 2 terrain parks, and newly expanded snowmaking for the upcoming season.

In the lodge, The Shawmut Grille offers delicious food and beverage while The Espresso Lift Coffee House serves lattes and sweet treats, both boasting panoramic slope views and beautiful stone fireplaces.

Swain’s Mountainside Inn is the perfect choice for affordable slope side lodging.

Whether you conquer the black diamonds, meander to the bottom on a wide-open trail, savor the thrill of hitting the rails at one of the terrain parks, or are just learning; Swain has something for all ambitions and abilities. Swain Resort, celebrating 65 years of wintertime fun!

Swain has teamed up with Ratnik Industries (Victor, NY) for a snowmaking expansion worth nearly $200,000. Ratnik has designed and manu-

factured snow guns according to Swains’ exact needs at specific locations on mountain.

A total of 60 guns: 50 tower-mounted (mostly 30’ and several 15’) and 10 sled-mounted (15’).

The tower guns will be installed on the headwalls and the sled guns will be used to provide better coverage on wider slopes. The new guns will be operational for the 2012-13 season.

The slope side development on the west side of the mountain features ski- in ski-out properties on an expanded trail system. There are 27 properties in the planned expansion as well as new slope side, multi-use trails that are integrated into the development properties. The slope and trail expansion is themed

around Swain’s vision of being a year-round, multiuse resort for downhill skiing, cross county skiing, mountain biking, and hiking right at Swain Resort and more importantly, one more step toward becoming the premier family resort in the region.

Lot preparation has started for some who already purchased lots, including brush clearing and well drilling. The development road is complete and drivable and lots are still available for purchase.

Swain offers lots to enjoy, check out: Family Learn to Ski Week Jan. 511, Extreme Weekend Feb. 1-2, Winter Carnival and Swain Homecoming March 2-3. Live music provided on select weekends in the Shawmut Grille.

Throughout the season Swain offers $25 lift tickets on certain days: Monday is Senior Day, Wednesday is College Day and Wing Night in the Shawmut, Friday is Ladies Day, and ANY day is Military Day. For more information go to www.swain.com or call 607 545-6511.18

forward walking lunge.

The technique is the same as above, but when you push up through your front heel, you are going to advance the back leg forward and past the stationary leg, as if walking, and continue as noted above.

Another key exercise to build core body strength, balance, and coordination is called a Turkish get-up. There are videos available on YouTube which may be helpful. To start, lie on your back with a kettlebell (or dumbbell) in your right hand. Raise the kettlebell straight above your right shoulder, and bend your right knee placing your foot flat on the ground. The idea here is to always have the arm holding the kettlebell straight above the shoulder, while always looking at it, going from lying down to standing up. From here, push the kettlebell towards the ceiling, maintaining a straight elbow, lifting your back off the ground while shifting your body weight to allow your forearm to rest on the ground. From here, move your trunk forward to get your left elbow straight so you’re only supporting your upper body with your palm on the floor. Now, to start to stand up, lift your buttocks off the ground, putting your weight through your left arm and bent right leg. You need to quickly then swing your left leg behind you and place your left foot and knee on the ground behind you, maintaining a straight back. From this position, stand up by pushing through the heel of your right leg, bringing your left foot forward to meet the right. Finally, to return to starting position on the ground, reverse all the moves.

Photo by David Brzykcy, PT

Nicole Mosher, SPT, demonstrates a jump squat.

If you enjoy powerful skiing, bumps, and boarding in half-pipes and terrain parks, Jump Squats will prove useful. From a mid-to-deep squat position, jump up as high as you can. Bend your knees deeply again as you return to earth, and quickly and powerfully react to the ground by jumping up again. Two to three sets of 20 reps, bodyweight only.

This will result in profound recruitment of the glutes, hamstrings, quadriceps, gastroc-soleus complex, and the tibialis anterior and posterior.

One last complex exercise designed to improve core strength, balance, and coordination is called burpees. To start a burpee, stand up straight with your arms at the side. From here, you are going to squat down by putting your body weight through both heels, raise your arms forward so they are parallel to the floor, and begin squatting as if you were going to sit in a chair.

From here you are going to lean forward and place both hands on the floor, keeping your elbows slightly bent, and quickly kick both legs behind you landing in a push-up position. At this point you will complete one push-up, and return to a squatting position, doing the reverse of what is written above.

Once here, you will immediately jump straight into the air while straightening your arms straight overhead. When landing, make sure you have slightly bent knees to reduce impact and minimize risk of injury. Repeat the above sequence five times or continue to fatigue. Progress to more reps when appropriate.

Further exercises such as push-ups, planks, balance training, and core exercises may also be helpful.

Hopefully you’re now inspired to participate in a pre-season snow sports training program.

Sliding smiles

By Paige Timkey There is no better way to spend a winter’s day in Western New York than by sledding. All you need is a sled, tube or toboggan, and there is certainly no shortage of snow! Hitting the hills is a great way to have fun with little to no expense.

Peoples of all ages can enjoy this simple winter pastime. Our region offers many places to tube and sled.

Beaver Island Beaver Island State Park offers opportunities for sledding, tubing, and tobogganing. You’ll need to bring your own tubes or sled, and a thermos of hot cocoa will make the day that much more enjoyable. Hills are open from sunrise to sunset. A nice addition to the fun atmosphere at Beaver Island Park is heated restrooms. Snowmobiling is also available for families to enjoy scenic trails within the park’s grounds.

Chestnut Ridge Park If you’re looking for outdoor fun with incredible scenery then head to Chestnut Ridge Park.

Chestnut Ridge was named by early settlers for the wealth of the great chestnut trees found in its hills. An impressive view from the top of the ridge spans the horizon from Buffalo to the Canadian shore. Chestnut Ridge offers many activities including tobogganing, sledding, tubing, cross country skiing, and snowmobiling. Sledding hills are open and clear of obstacles and there are four toboggan chutes to enjoy that are operated from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends and most holidays, weather permitting.

Reservoir State Park Resovoir State Park, located in Lewiston, N.Y. near Niagara Falls Memorial Park, is another great option for family fun. Park goers can participate in sledding, tubing, cross country skiing, and snowmobiling at no charge.

Bring your own equipment.

Kissing Bridge Kissing Bridge’s Colden Tubing Company is an excellent choice for families who would like to rent tubes. Colden’s Tubing Company is Western New York’s largest downhill tubing park. Tubes and sleds are provided and the hills are open Monday through Friday. Colden is also open on holidays. The slopes open as soon as natural or machine made snow is available.

To get as much sledding fun as possible, season passes are available. The facility is very well maintained Refreshments and rentals are always available on the premises.

Swain Gunny’s Gorge Tubing Park is located at Swain (only one hour from Rochester). New for 201213 is the addition of a new backstop at the bottom of the tube slide will allow for better snow coverage throughout the winter.

Come with a group or with your family to Gunny’s Gorge 750foot tube park.

Safety First Wherever you decide to go for a snow day, remember some basic safety tips. If you’re not going to a controlled and managed facility, then remember to choose the right hillside. Select one that isn’t too steep and has a long flat area at the bottom for you to glide to a safe stop, clear of trees or other obstacles. Avoid

Winter is a big adventure in Wyoming County

Photo courtesy Carlton Warner Photo courtesy Colden Tubing

hills that end near ponds, roads or fences. Choose hills that are snowy, not icy. Icy hills make for rather hard landings as compared to a soft cushion of fluffy snow. Try to go sledding during the daytime, when there is better visibility unless adequate lighting is available. Common sense safety tips such as being alert, staying out of the way of other sledders, and taking turns on the hill are not to be overlooked.

Apparel Be sure to dress appropriately for the fun with an emphasis on keeping yourself dry. A hat, gloves or mittens, winter jacket, snow pants and boots are recommended. Waterproof clothing will keep you dry and warm.

If you’re clothes get wet, try to change them with some dry ones to make your whole experience more enjoyable.

It is incredible how just a bit of snow and a tube can provide an entire day’s worth of fun!

Team chemistry: Learn the importance of science in sports with fall exhibit

By Amy Biber

explore some of these basic the reaction time in footscience concepts, view ball, the physics of baseball, Every two years we sit memorabilia of Buffalo’s and beyond. back to watch Olympic athrich sports history, letes break world and gain a deeper records.

Season understanding after season, we and appreciation watch NFL quarfor football, hockterbacks break ey, baseball, passing records. lacrosse, and other Game after game, celebrated Buffalo we witness displays sports. of athletic prowess Private exhibit never seen before. rentals are availThe professional able for corporate athletes of yestergatherings, birthday could barely Photo courtesy Buffalo Museum of Science day parties, or compete against Sabretooth in RpidShot Training System. even a fun outing some of today’s with your team to high school athtrain in the exhibletes. But what is it’s RapidShot and Aside from natural aththe common denominator RapidHands professional leticism and dedication, in this athletic evolution? hockey simulation system today’s athletes and trainers Science. courtesy of the Buffalo need to understand the sciScience truly is the MVP Sabres. entific concepts behind on any field, court, diaThe Science of Sports is their craft. Just like tech mond, or rink. This fall, the presented by Harris Beach companies, a lot of research Buffalo Museum of Science PLLC and UB and development goes into investigates the physics, Orthopaedics with media creating today’s “state of the math, and biology behind support from WGR Buffalo art” athletic specimens. As Buffalo’s favorite sports Sports Radio 550. The the saying goes: Bigger. with its new exhibit, The exhibit is open seven days a Better. Faster. Stronger. But Science of Sports, running week, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and science stretches far now through Jan. 6. is included with general beyond the weight room Created in partnership museum admission and and into the equipment with the Buffalo Bills, free for BMS Members. used and worn, the creSabres, Bisons, Bandits, and For more information on ation of the ice in the rink, New Era Caps, The Science the exhibit and rentals, visit and even the statistics calof Sports uses interactive the museum’s website at culated with every play. exhibits and displays to www.sciencebuff.org or call In The Science of Sports, explore such sports topics 716.896.5200. visitors of all ages can as the geometry of hockey,

A tranquil Wyoming County barn in Orangeville in the winter.

Community Sports Report The winter season does not indicate the end of fun in Wyoming County—quite the contrary, winter offers sights, sounds and things to do that no other season can match!

If you are looking for outdoor winter adventures, then Wyoming County is the place to be.

Experience some of the best crosscountry skiing trails that Western New York has to offer at Byrncliff Resort and Conference Center. Stay and play right at Byrncliff, as the resort offers accommodations and a restaurant on-site. If snowmobiling is your preferred activity, Wyoming County features over 350 miles of trails. Pick up a snowmobile map at multiple locations throughout the county and hit the trails! Spend a Sunday at Beaver Meadow Audobon Center learning about nature with the Sunday Family Walk & Talks. Each Sunday a new topic is explored.

Kick the holiday season off right with the Holiday DeLights Festival, on Dec.1 in Perry. Celebrate the magic of the season with food,

music and fun for all ages. Bring the classic story “The Polar Express” to life on the Arcade & Attica Railroad throughout December.

Sing Christmas carols on your way to the “North Pole,” and be sure to bring your camera and your pajamas! Take part in Moonlight Magic in the village of Warsaw on Dec. 4, a holiday promotion featuring caroling and specials throughout the stores in town.

Ring in the New Year at Last Night Perry, a fun, alcohol-free, family-oriented New Year’s Eve Celebration featuring performers and athletic activities all evening long. Winter activities abound in the New Year. Test your luck at the Annual North East Ice Tour Ice Fishing Tournament on Silver Lake in February, take part in the Annual Snow Drag in Arcade, or create a cardboard sled and try out the Annual Cardboard Olympics at Byrncliff Resort in Varysburg.

For more information or a free travel guide call 1-800-839-3919 or v i s i t , www.GoWyomingCountyNY.com.

Doctari’s Fishing Forum

with Rich Davenport

steady presentation of a crawfish or minnow pattern working well. Rat-L-Traps worked above the receding weeds can draw aggressive strikes when weather conditions are right.

Lakes like Chautauqua, Cassadaga, Findley, Honeoye

of year.

Although the King Salmon run has ended, later-running fish like Coho Salmon now Thanksgiving is fastshow surprisingly good numapproaching and the seasons bers around the mouths of for many Western New York such creeks as 18-Mile and game fish comes to a close, Oak Orchard. With many of but action is hot in these larger feeders the streams and sporting controlled lakes, and before flow due to dams the ice gets nice, upstream, the rapid November becomes water level rise is all about trout. tempered, allowing for less muddy conBass ditions and a shorter November marks wait for water clarity the final month for to return. regular bass fishing, Lake Erie streams, where anglers may which showed rather use live bait and poorly last year for keep up to five fish the annual fall steelper day. Once head movements, November ends, have been brought the catch and back to life by the release, artificial recent rains, but only bass fishing require a few opportunity kicks Photo by Rich Davenport days after a in across most NYS Time to start thinking about the hard water heavy precipitawaters. Lake Erie season, and although trout now fill the tion event anglers find access streams, ice fishing preparation for winter before waters becoming difficult, fun should start now! are clear enough but when weather permits, boaters can still get and Conesus all offer some to fish. Cattaraugus out on the Big E to find hun- outstanding late-season bass Creek shows trout from gry and cooperative small- fishing. Call ahead for boat the mouth now all the mouth moving well into the launch access as many area way to the Scoby Hill shallows to feed. Vertical jig- ramps have pulled their Dam. Canadaway Creek and Chautauqua Creek ging a minnow presentation launch docks for winter. both show fish entering over rock humps and ledges Trout and Salmon this time of year works wonRains from Hurricane the streams, and promise bring a fine ders, as schooling baitfish Sandy helped lift area stream to make for an easy banquet for flow and re-open creek Thanksgiving fishing pre-winter feeding bass. In- mouths closed by sediment opportunity. With many line spinners, too, work well deposits, bringing good num- area sportsmen now during November. bers of running trout into the afield for NY Southern Concentrate on creek mouth tributaries to feed for winter. Zone Big Game season, areas and rocky ledges early With brown trout nearing outings in November and late in the day for best their fall spawn, many Lake seem like you have the action.

Ontario feeders see increased streams to yourself.

Inland bass fishing has numbers of these beautiful Remember to dress for transitioned from structure- game fish. Small egg presenta- volatile temperatures oriented efforts to weed bed tions are hard to beat this time and changeable weather, opting for insulated and probing, with a slow and

Holiday season fishing ahead

waterproof gear in case temperatures fluctuate and bring sporadic rains. Small spinners, small minnow presentations or egg sacs worked in and around the deeper pools are an angler’s best bet this time of year.

Muskellunge November also marks the final month of the 2012 NYS Muskellunge season, although Chautauqua Lake’s season closed on Oct. 31. Upper Niagara River provides some spectacular musky action, especially during low-light periods of the day, but do not overlook a night run of trolling large minnow plugs, as these predators are putting on weight for the long winter ahead. Remember to know your regulations if you intend to keep a fish as minimum lengths vary between waters

across WNY. Ice Watch Winter is almost here, and the ice should start forming in short order. Although water temperatures still show above normal on many waterways, we should see a better season than we had last year, provided we do not get heavy snows while ice is starting to form.

Outdoors retailers now have the 2012/2013 ice fishing gear on the display floor, with specials sure to come in the coming weeks. Now is the time to inventory your hard-water gear and make that holiday list if any equipment needs to be refreshed. Newly adopted fishing regulations have simplified the once-confusing ice fishing rules, so be sure to check out the changes before heading out. As always, remember that although no

ice is totally safe, four inches of clear, blue ice will keep you on top. Look for more hard water information in next month’s edition.

Remember, take a kid fishing and give the gift that lasts a lifetime.

Rich Davenport is co-founder of WeLoveOutdoors.com, an avid Outdoorsman and member of the NYSOWA. His works are also published in NY Outdoor News, Walleye.com and the Buffalo News. Rich is also the Recording Secretary for the Erie County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, Secretary of the Western NY Environmental Federation, member of the Erie County Fisheries Advisory Board and is the Co-Chairman and Region 9 Rep NYSCC Big Game Committee. Email rich@weloveoutdoors.com.

December 2012

SPORTS & LEISURE MAGAZINE

Hockey tips from the pros: Skating and endurance

By Brian Mazurowski

MF: I think obviously endurance comes Skating is one of from running and just hockey’s fundamenstaying active and gettal skills, and someting the cardio up. thing that can be That’s one thing that improved on at any we emphasize in the playing level. We locker room too is to talked with Marcus play a full 60 minFoligno and Cody utes… I think long disHodgson, two of the tance running is going R o c h e s t e r to help you be able to Americans top forPhotos courtesy Rochester Amerks withstand that 60 minwards, about skating Marcus Foligno Cody Hodgson utes. Some guys on this and how young team get double shifthockey players can ed, so endurance is huge in initely, you look at the best boost their endurance. that case. small guys in the league What aspect of skating do CH: We don’t do a whole they’re all amazing skaters. I you work on most during the lot of long distance training think what size gives you is season? in the Gary Roberts proadvantage in reach and Marcus Foligno: I think gram, which I follow. The stride length, which gives the biggest thing for me game of hockey is so exployou more speed, but if being a big guy is quick feet; sive, so quick. Shifts are you’re fast and have a long you’re a big guy out there only 30 to 45 seconds, a stick there’s no reason to and you don’t want to look minute max, so there’s not a worry; look at guys like too slow, so I think quick whole lot of long distance Nathan Gerbe, Tyler Ennis, feet is the biggest thing. We type things. You can build those guys are amazing do some cone drills and up your cardio by doing skaters. some circle drills where sprints, which is similar to What can young players you’re moving your feet what you do on the ice. do to improve their inside and outside. I think Any other tips you would endurance and make sure for kids it’s just to work on give to young hockey playthey have enough left in the those little things so by the ers? tank for late in the game? time you’re older it’s going CH: Enjoy it and have CH: I think fuel is a big to be a habit. fun. When you’re tense it’s thing. Getting the right rest I don’t think many people tough to move out there but and nutrition. I think most realize that smaller, quicker when you’re enjoying things important is probably your players do a lot of strength and having fun it just seems food. You got to eat the right training to improve their so much more effortless and things to make sure you’re speed. you go a lot faster. fueled for the third period.

Cody Hodgson: Yeah def-

Improving your defensive skills

By Gary Reeves Backward skating is the one basic skill that every defenseman should master. I’ve watched a significant number of defensemen “going” backwards however they were not “skating” backwards, let me explain the difference. “Going” backwards is when a defenseman develops his backward skating motion with his legs apart moving his backside back and forth with little choppy strides while using backward crossovers to develop speed.

“Skating” backwards is when a defenseman develops power with a weight transfer.

A weight transfer is when the skate comes to the “in” position ready for the thrust with all your body weight centered on top of the thrusting skate.

You then thrust your skate forming an arc with the “toe” (front part of your skate blade) out front and back into the other skate.

Repeating likewise with the other skate. Make sure that when you finish the arc your skate does not go past the center of your body and The report projects another $50 million in annual revenues from the machines.

The Sustainable Horse Racing Model recognizes the integral role of the horse player in the success of the industry, acknowledging that full fields make for better gaming and better handle, and proposing halving the number of race dates to mitigate declining field sizes. Ft. Erie’s decline from its average eight to seven horses per field last year, the report says, is the result of overfunding from

What’s in store for Ft. Erie Race Track

By Nanette Tramont

gaming products the industry might offer, including a racing-specific lottery, a sports Ft. Erie Race Track could book and a new pari-mutuel survive the Ontario governproduct called “historical ment’s removal of the Slots at horse racing” (known in the the Racetrack Program revUnited States as “instant racenues, but would need a ing”). shorter season, lowered purse Sports book betting, which structure and the addition of allows wagering on single Quarter Horse racing, accordsporting ing to the Canadian events such Horse Racing Industry as NFL Transition Report. games and But the report, b o x i n g released in late October, matches, is notes pessimistically that not legal Ft. Erie Race Track faces now in financial difficulties that Canada, but “have culminated in an is expected announcement that the to be if track will close,” and recpending fedommends, among other eral legislaactions, moving its tion passes.

Thoroughbred and fledgThe report ling Quarter Horse meet projects an to a nearby Quarter added $50 Horse track Ajax Downs.

Photo by Michael Burns Photography Ltd. million in The Ontario governPender Harbour (cq) powering home in the 2011 revenues ment-appointed panel Prince of Wales Stakes, the second jewel of Canada’s Triple Crown races, run at Ft. Erie in annually to developed a “Sustainable July. the industry Horse Racing Model” it if it is given the exclusive right competing worldwide, with says will allow “a vibrant, to this popular form of gam90 percent of their handle world-class horse racing ing. coming from off-track in the industry” with the help of In the states, instant racing form of simulcast or Advance public funding, though much has enjoyed a somewhat limitDeposit Wagering platforms. less than the Slots at ed success at two tracks in Revenues consisting of Racetracks Program (SARP), Kentucky—Ellis Park and public funding and gaming which amounted for more Kentucky Downs. It involves returns would replace SARP than 60 percent of purse betting on the outcome of past under the new plan. To receive money awarded in Ontario races through an electronic public funding in the form of horse races—a model the terminal that creates races government investment, track panel found not only unrelatusing charts and data from operators would have to agree ed to its core racing cusmore than 60,000 races run. to sustain and enhance the tomers, horseplayers, but Users place bets based on limpari-mutuel handle and reinunsustainable as well. ited information disclosed vest earnings back into the Under the proposed susbefore the race, such as jockindustry. tainable model, which the eys’ and trainers’ win percentRevenues from gaming panel hopes to implement ages, etc. returns would come from new within a three-year transition period, purse money would be based on pari-mutuel wagering, resulting in nearly 50 percent less racing—down to an aggregate of about 800 race days across all tracks—to sustain the substantial purses needed to compete with other jurisdictions worldwide. And to be sure, Ontario’s tracks are

Page 7

behind you as your hips will twist and consequently you will skate a crooked mile.

Skating backward in a straight line gives a defenseman a huge advantage as he is able to “mirror” his opponent with a slight thrust one way or another without committing himself while developing power.

A defenseman should also develop a quick backward start. A quick backward start is when you place all your weight on the inside edge of your skate with your shoulders and hips facing the play.

You then thrust your skate to make an arc in “front” of you into a backward crossover with the outside edge of your inside skate thrusting to complete the crossover. When the crossover skate meets the ice it will be your first stroke skating backwards in a straight line. I’ve witnessed defensemen using continuous crossovers to develop power when going backwards and were beat by the oncoming forwards repeatedly. Why? Simple, the defenseman made his crossover pulling “away” from his SARP. Races under the new model would be run with fields of at least 10 horses.

The industry would also coordinate race dates and events, as well as branding and marketing, under the new plan.

Thoroughbred, Standardbred and Quarter Horse tracks would be categorized as “A” (premier), “B” (signature) or “C” (grassroots), with racing days and purses distributed based on ranking.

Ft. Erie would be a Thoroughbred B (signature) track. Last year, the venerable border track, which just com-

opponent who waltzed around him without even making a deke!

Defensemen should also perfect a “sweep” pass. On many occasions I’ve watched defensemen make a long rink-wide pass to a forward with a slap pass. A slap pass is the most inaccurate pass in hockey over a long distance and is overused in my opinion. A “sweep” pass is much like putting a golf ball as a “follow through” with your stick and hands in a straight line is used. A good drill to perfect the sweep pass is to place two players on the opposite side of the ice surface using the red line, blue line and even the goal line as your trajectory. Pass the puck back and forth with a “follow through” while keeping the puck on the line the full width of the rink until mastered.

Team play relies on accurate passing and believe me, all the systems drills in the world will not be effective until these basic skills are perfected. More on defensive skills in future columns.

For more information regarding Pro Skating Hockey Skills Clinics or Individual and Team Clinics, call Gary Reeves, 905.384-0508.

pleted its 115th year of live Thoroughbred horse racing, ran 78 race dates, with $5 million in pari-mutuel handle and $6 million in purses.

Under the new plan, the recommended number or race days would fall to 30 and purses to $3 million annually ($100,000 per race day).

The panel set a Dec. 1 deadline to negotiate with the tracks to implement the plan.

In a statement, Ft. Erie Race Track says it awaits the invitation by the panel to begin negotiations to meet the deadline.

Page 8

SPORTS & LEISURE MAGAZINE

Rylie Bean excelling for ECC

By Brian Michalek

Erie Community College is a place where students, especially student athletes, have an opportunity to grow and reach the next level. When it comes to volleyball, middle blocker Rylie Bean has made the most of her two years and is ready for her next challenge.

Although Bean was not as serious about volleyball in high school as she is now, she has certainly made up for lost time. “In high school I was more into track,” Bean explained.

“When I decided to give that up and go into volleyball, I became more passionate about it.”

According to her coach, Craig Starzynski, Bean’s work ethic and commitment to the sport has led to a lot of her success. “First, Riley came in with a hard working attitude,” Starzynski said. “She was able to make changes. She wanted to get better, and wanted to change parts of her game, to become more successful. When she came to ECC, we unloaded a lot more responsibility on her than she was used to in high school (Frontier), but she took it incredibly well.

She wanted to learn as much as she could. She worked really hard at practice, and gave 100 percent all the time.”

For as much praise as her coach gives her, Bean feels that a lot of what she has accomplished should be credited to him. “Honestly, Coach Craig [Starzynski],” Bean said when asked what contributed the most to her success. “In high school I did not really play that much. Once I came to ECC last year Coach Craig really stepped up and helped me become a better well rounded volleyball player.”

Bean’s abilities have earned her a few honors this year. Bean was named to the all-tournament team at the Region III Tournament. She was earlier named to the All-Region III team as a

the court by her actions.

First off it starts in practice.

In practice she goes hard all the time. She goes 100 percent and is 100 percent invested in what we are trying to do, each day at practice, and with each drill even.”

What Bean likes about being a leader is motivating others as well as leading by example. “I lead by both,” Bean said. “I like giving encouragement. On the court, I have to be positive for them, and I try to be at my best. I lead by both.”

Rylie will be moving on from ECC at the end of the school year but is already thinking a b o u t excelling at the next level.

Currently she is keeping h e r options open. “I am still looking r i g h t n o w, ” Bean said.

“I am looking at a few colleges but I haven’t Photo courtesy ECC Athletics decided Rylie Bean has been in top form for the Kats where I all season, recording 471 kills. want to go yet. I do want to play next year past couple of years,” and at the next level.” Her Starzynski said. “Rylie is not coach likes the way Bean is the type to get excited about handling this situation and personal goals. She’s always knows she can manage team first oriented, but it is whatever life throws at her. nice for her to get those “She’s weighing her accolades and know that options,” Starzynski said. people out there know how “She is the perfect future well she’s been playing, and athlete to have. Things are that they award her for going to be different. It is that.” going to be tougher, harder, According to Coach and faster. She just needs to Starzynski, Rylie is an keep doing what she is exceptional leader on the doing, be positive and her court vocally as well as by abilities will take her where example. “She is both,” she needs to go.”

Starzynski said. “More so she leads by example out on first-team selection. Bean recorded 49 kills and 32 digs to go with 13 service aces in the tournament.

Overall this season she made 471 kills. Bean is honored for the recognition but for her the overall success of the team comes first. “I like the awards,” Bean said. “It is not something I look forward too. It’s my team’s success that matters.”

Coach Starzynski says even though Bean is humble about the honors, the recognition is well deserved. “It’s a real testament to all the hard work she’s put in the

December 2012

Former Williamsville South star Licata gets a win in first collegiate start

By Charles Roberts and family were there for 21-yard lob to Fred Lee, givevery snap. ing Buffalo a 24-17 lead A lot can change in two “There was a pretty big with less than four minutes years. Just ask Joe Licata.

Licata clan there,” Licata to play.

Flip the calendar back to said with a smile. “I don’t “I was just trying to stay Nov. 4, 2010, Licata’s last know, numbers wise, but a calm, honestly,” Licata said game as the star quarterlot of my friends from high afterward. “I think my emoback for Williamsville South school were High School. there and my When it comes to entire family high-school athwas there, so it letes, there’s no was great to name bigger than have their suphis. And although port.” it was on this date “I couldn’t be that he was on the more proud of wrong end of a 48Joe,” Bulls head 15 loss, his coach Jeff career—which Q u i n n includes a Western said.”.…I know New York-best 87 our kids were touchdown passexcited about es—is not soon to having Joe in be forgotten. there. That’s the Ranked among one thing that ESPN’s top 80 we keep talking high-school quarabout; these terbacks in 2010, kids care deeply Licata was a heavifor each other. ly recruited colleJoe went in giate prospect. there and Despite the attenplayed extremetion, he opted to ly well. We had stay in his homea couple guys town, committing drop early passto the University at es, but Joe just Buffalo.

He Photo by Nick LoVerde kept doing his dreamed of the day Joe Licata was Western New York’s biggest thing.” he could play at name in high-school football in 2010. On Nov. 3, Whether or the next level— he made his collegiate debut for the University at not Licata with bigger crowds Buffalo. remains the and more on the Bulls’ starter is line—in front of still up in the air. tions got the better of me in his friends and family.

Incumbent starter Alex the first half, but I settled On Nov. 3, 729 days Zordich missed the game down in the second half and removed from the limelight, due to an injury and Quinn played my game.” he finally got that opportudidn’t go into details regardMiami tied the game with nity, making his first colleing future plans. Regardless, just 23 seconds remaining. giate start against the Miami Licata was all smiles in the However, a 47-yard return (Ohio) RedHawks. moments following his on the ensuing kickoff setup Emotions certainly debut.

Bulls kicker Patrick Clarke, played a big factor. After a “It was awesome; it was a who drilled a 47-yard field pair of early drops and an great feeling,” Licata said. goal to give Buffalo a 27-24 interception, on which he “That’s why I came here, to victory. In other words, misfired, Licata seemed a bit play in front of Buffalo fans.

Licata’s debut as a collegiate tentative. But as the game I mean, when we won the starter was a success. And as progressed, so did Licata. game and I got to run off the he had hoped when he He finished a rather pedessideline and see my family agreed to attend the univertrian 13 of 24 for 127 yards, there, that was just the best sity, practically a deep pass but also threw a pair of feeling.” from his home, his friends touchdowns, including a

December 2012

SPORTS & LEISURE MAGAZINE

Page 9

2012 women’s volleyball NFL trivia quiz season nearing conclusion

By Mike Fox

Conference Team honors.

Junior setter Kelsey Bashore received the most prestigious award as she was named Western Division Player of the Year.

Bashore was also named to the West Division First Team along with teammates Cheslea Moore (Kenmore, N.Y.) and Sam Parente, while senior Sherrell McLean (Lockport, N.Y.) was named to the West Division Second Team.

Freshman outside hitter, Hannah Renaldo (North Collins, N.Y.) also earned Rookie of the Year honors after a phenomenal first year with the Bengals.

The Bengals will return a majority of their team in 2013 and will have another strong incoming freshman class, so look for them to make another run next season.

Canisius College The Golden Griffins are entering the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Tournament feeling very confident, as they have put together several long stretches of wins. The team is laced with upperclassmen, so this may be the year that they make a run.

Senior Samantha Good

Defensively, Allyson Severyn (Lancaster, N.Y.) and Sydney Palka have led the Griffs all year. The duo will be a critical part of how Canisius finishes the year and will no doubt get their share of minutes down the final stretch of the season.

Erie Community College ECC lost in the Region III Tournament in a hardfought series versus Monroe Community College and Herkimer CC that just proved to be too much for the Kats.

However, other than their final losses, the team had a very successful season. They finished 21-12 and had several different players receive conference, and potentially, national honors.

Sophomore Rylie Bean (Hamburg, N.Y.) enjoyed a phenomenal final season with ECC. The middle blocker was recognized on a national level by receiving NJCAA Division III All-American Honors last year, and will likely be awarded the same honor this year as well. Bean is also featured in this edition on page 8.

Along with Bean, Kats’ sophomore Kati Russi

runs, so they will have no shortage of confidence entering this conference championship.

The Purple Eagles will have a huge turnover in 2013, so this is the year for Niagara to make their last push for the MAAC Championship.

University at Buffalo The 2012 season proved to be difficult for the Bulls, especially on the road, as the team only won a single road conference game this season (1-7). Outside hitter Dana Musil has continued to lead the Bulls’ offense as she is number one in kills on the team for the third consecutive season. The junior was the team’s spark on offense and will be a heavy part of the 2013 team.

Junior Kelly Svoboda is the team’s libero and is always in the middle of the action. She has been an amazing defender throughout her career and has been named Mid-American Player of the Week three times this season.

Buffalo will be returning several key pieces for next season and will be eager to put their disappointing 2012 season behind them.

Answers 1.d 2.d 3.a 4.b 5.c Hennigan had 1746 yards in 1961.

6.a 7. b 8.d, in 1995. Reed played only six games that year.

9.a 10. d

By Adam McGill (Hamburg, N.Y.) was also (Rochester, N.Y.) has had named to the All-Region III another spectacular seaThe 2012 collegiate Women’s Volleyball Team. son. She was even named women’s volleyball season Russi dominated the right MAAC Player of the Week was once again a step in side for the team and her twice this season, marking the right direction for the tireless effort on the court six times she has received WNY area. Several local will certainly be missed. the honor during her players received awards The Kats will have a comcareer. and some seniors had some pletely different heartwarming final starting lineup seasons. Here is a next season, as final look at the the two-year uniwomen’s volleyball versity has an season from a influx of new talteam-to-team ent each year. standpoint: N i a g a r a Buffalo State University College The Purple The Bengals Eagles are trying enjoyed a magical to win their 2012 season as fourth straight they finished the conference chamyear with a 26-8 pionship in as overall record and many years, so it 6-0 record in conwill be interestference play. The ing to see how S U N Y A C they respond to Championships all the attention were held in and pressure.

Buffalo this year, Niagara will still so Buff State cerbe one of the tainly had a strong favorites for the home crowd from M A A C game to game.

Championship, After a hard-fought but it will be a series, the Bengals much tougher ended up losing in road for the Lady the SUNYAC Eagles this year.

Championships 0The team will 3 to Cortland. be relying on However, this their trio of senshould not tarnish iors in Kari the amazing Honomichi, accomplishments Michelle James of the team this and Amanda season as there was Wilken.

They a school-record Photo by Paul Hokanson/UB Athletics have been togethfive different playDana Musil has been the spark on offense all er through all of ers who earned year long for the UB Bulls. the team’s title SUNYAC All-

recent player to have ten or b. Ahman Green more interceptions in a c. DeMarco Murray For most sports fans, season? d. Warrick Dunn Thanksgiving wouldn’t be a. Jairus Byrd 5. Who was the first the same without football. b. Antonio Cromartie player ever to have 1,500This month, we provide c. Champ Bailey you with some converd. Antoine Winfield sation starters to help 8. Andre Reed led pass the time until the the Bills in receiving turkey is properly yards nine times in a browned, and the ten-year span. Who pumpkin pie has was the only other cooled. player to lead the team 1. Who is the only in receiving yards in active player ever to that time span? intercept four passes in a. Thurman Thomas one game? b. James Lofton a. Ed Reed c. Chris Burkett b. Darrelle Revis d. Bill Brooks c. Ronde Barber 9. Buffalo’s last sead. DeAngelo Hall son with 11 or more 2. Only three players victories was in 1999, have ever caught five behind Doug Flutie.

TD passes in one game.

Who was the team’s Who is the only active Photo by Mike Majewski leading rusher that player on the list?

Ball-hawk Jairus Byrd picked off a year? a. Randy Moss lot of passes in 2009, but did he hit a. Jonathan Linton b. Larry Fitzgerald double-digits? b. Antowain Smith c. Calvin Johnson c. Shawn Bryson d. No active player d. Travis Henry plus receiving yards in a has ever caught five in a 10. Who is the only season? game. active player ever to have a. Jerry Rice 3. Who is the only quarsix sacks in a game? b. Michael Irvin terback with three career a. Jared Allen c. Charley Hennigan six-TD games? b. Cameron Wake d. Andre Rison a. Tom Brady c. Mario Williams 6. Who was the first b. Carson Palmer d. Osi Umenyiora player ever to have 110 or c. Jim Kelly more receptions in a sead. Aaron Rodgers son?

4. Tony Dorsett is the a. Sterling Sharpe only player ever to have a b. Haywood Jeffires 99-yard rush from scrimc. Herman Moore mage. Who ranks second d. Cris Carter with a 98-yard run?

7. Who was the most a. Bo Jackson

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SPORTS & LEISURE MAGAZINE

December 2012

Bob Caico inducted into the Rochester Boxing HOF

WRESTLING NEWS, NOTES, FACTS AND INNUENDO

By Jack Green

It’s been awhile since we’ve done random news & notes. Both Gallup and Rasmussen Polls indicate they’re a well-received concept, so here it is again.

- Approximately 950 wrasslin’ fans showed up at the Keenan Center in Lockport last Oct. 6 to see ESW’s annual WrestleBash.

In the featured matches, Hacksaw Jim Duggan and Inferno Johnny Adams beat Barry and Brian Hardy in tag team action, while Pepper Parks pinned Matt Hardy.

For younger fans, Barry and Brian Hardy are NOT related to Matt (or Jeff) Hardy. Barry Hardy was a member of the WWF roster starting in 1989. He currently resides in Rochester, NY and has been teaming with his son, Brian.

In his days in The Fed, Barry frequently tagged with Duane Gill, later known to the world as Gillberg. They’d often work under masks as The Executioners; legend has it that they also once tagged as The Toxic Turtles. Barry also had a brief run in WCW in the mid-90s. All told, he appeared numerous times on both WWF Raw and WCW Saturday Night (i.e.; “The Mothership”), being in the ring against greats ranging from Bret Hart, Bob Backlund, Vader and The Ultimate Warrior to the late Kerry Von Erich.

Barry Hardy has helped train many wrestlers who’ve worked in Rochester over the last ten years. He’s a genuinely good guy who came out of retirement to help Brian break into the business. Both made this year’s prestigious Pro Wrestling Illustrated Top 500 list, with Brian capturing the Karma-Blessed No. 500 spot. Barry was also the first man inducted into the Rochester Wrestling Hall of Fame; speaking of which... - This Reporter has been remiss in not congratulating the newest member of that Hallowed Hall:

Recently, Sports & Leisure Magazine’s boxing reporter, Bob Caico, was presented with the prestigious Pete Provenzano Award at the 2012 Rochester Boxing Hall of Fame banquet.

The Rochester Boxing Hall of Fame celebrated its 22nd Annual Awards Banquet and is well established as one of the nation’s best boxing events. The Pete Provenzano Award is presented annually to an outstanding individual who has done much to promote and advance the sport of boxing. Bob is an outstanding individual and his unique talents qualify him for this honor.

In 2001, Bob, armed only with his love for boxing and the wonderful memories of his childhood bonding with “Old Timers,” — whose stories on the sport, some involving his cousin former world featherweight Champ Tommy Paul, got him hooked — walked into a meeting of the Buffalo Veteran Boxers Association Ring 44 and expressed an interest to get involved.

Since that day, Bob has become a nationally recognized historian for the organization.

He doubles as Ring 44 Historian and Media exec.

He is an official USA certified amateur judge, referee and timekeeper, and dedicated to being a positive mentor for young athletes. Bob cov-

ers the local and pro boxing scene in and around Buffalo and Rochester for Sports & Leisure Magazine.

Additionally, Bob covers regional pro boxing events for the number one boxing website on the Internet, fightnews.com. Bob is a

Photo by Errol Daniels Photography

Bob, this past August, addressing the audience at Salvatore’s Italian Gardens at the Ring 44 annual dinner. timekeeper for the New York State Athletic Commission.

He is a member and contributor to the International Boxing Research organization, which is known worldwide, and is also an editor on Boxrec.com.

The founder of the newly established Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame, Scott Burt, was recently approached by ESPN as they wanted to do a feature on this new Hall of Fame. When Scott inquired as to how they became aware of Bare

By Ivan the Impaler

Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame, their response was that they read a very informative article in the Rochester edition of Sports & Leisure Magazine (written by Bob Caico). Bob continues to excel, as his last two boxing assignments were to cover and immediately report the on three World Championship bouts for fightnews.com.

Bob is of huge service as a leader in the boxing community. He aggressively seeks to exchange information and carry out his responsibilities as Buffalo Boxing Association Media Representative. He promotes and communicates boxing through the Ring 44 website and through Facebook. He has a Ring 44 Page on his Facebook page where he interacts with people from all over the world. He generously provides information as well pictures and bios to fans seeking information about their relatives and acquaintances.

He and his lovely wife Theresa are the proud parents of four wonderful children, Santino, Robert, twins Samantha and Sabrina. Aside from boxing, Bob is involved in coaching and instruction in a variety of sports and he is very involved in his children’s athletic endeavors.

Jack Green is the President of Buffalo Veteran Boxing Association Ring 44.

Local boxing happenings

By Bob C aico

dec 2-1 Saadiq Muhammad (Roc Boxing)

The LUX nightclub in downtown Buffalo Jack Grady (UB) hosted the second in a dec 3-0 three-card series of Mike Hajdaj (NWCC) amateur boxing on Nov. 9. The Invitational Jamal Dabney (NWCC) tournament will condec 2-1 clude on Friday, Nov. Mike Vega (Casal’s) 30, also at the LUX. The Eric Plumeri team with the most (Westside) dec 3-0 wins after the three Photo by Bob Caico Friday night cards will Brian Stevenson Jamal Dabney (lt.) of the Buffalo take home the champiNWCC and Mike Vega of Casal’s (Steeltown) onship trophy. The latBoxing represent their team at the Tim Akeredou (UB) est 15-bout show feaFriday Night Fights Invitational at the dec 3-0 tured boxers from LUX niteclub.

Danny Danzy (Baden) Rochester (Roc, Baden, Gregory O’Neal (St. Martin’s) St. Martin’s), Buffalo Jeremiah Jones (Syracuse) dec 2-1 (Westside, PAL, UB, Terri’s, dec 3-0 Marcus Floyd (PAL) Northwest CC), Syracuse, Bryan Camacho (Westside) Charles Williams (Eastside) Hamilton (Steeltown) Erie Lane Thatcher (Roc boxing) dec 3-0 (Eastside) and Niagara Falls dec 3-0 Joe Krebs (Casal’s) (Casal’s, Inspire, Thunder).

Connor Smith (UB) Sheldon Wilcox (Steeltown) The standings as of Nov. 9 Josh O’Reilly (Steeltown) dec2-1 after 32 bouts show the dec 2-1 K’Shawn Agee (Casal’s) Buffalo NWCC in the lead Jeffrey Ngayot (Westside) with five wins followed by James Canty (St. Martin’s) Rochester St. Martin’s with Keith Linsay (Inspire) dec 2-1 four and Eastside, Westside, dec 3-0 Kyle Bennett (Thunder) Steeltown and U.B. close Rich Barlog (Terri’s) Daniel DeJesus (Westside) behind with three wins dec 2-1 •••••••• apiece. Abraham Memom Oscar Peralta (Syracuse) Lavias “Red” Williams (165-pounds) of Erie is the Tyler Kruz (UB) (132-pound open class) of individual leader with a 2-0 dec 2-1 Rochester competed in the record. Results of the second Austin Treat (Roc Boxing) National PAL round: Championships last month Abraham Memon (Eastside) in Toledo, Ohio. Red won his

three fights over the first four days but dropped a semi-final bout by a score of 36-33. A great showing by the talented young man and rumor has it that he may turn pro soon. D’Andres Hockerson (123-pound open) also of Rochester reached the semi’s after winning two bouts. He lost by a score of 36-21 to the eventual champion of that class.

•••••••• Vincent Arroyo has been back in training with trainer Hector Alejandro at the Buffalo PAL gym on Vermont Street. Arroyo (12-1, seven KOs) has not fought in over 14 months after he had two impressive wins on national television. Personal and managerial problems now seem to be behind him and

Kevin Dunn.

Kevin was recently inducted during a NWA NY card in Gates (Rochester).

Dunn was both a high flyer and a fine mat worker, proving that being one doesn’t preclude the other. He held tag team titles in WNY with Mean Marcos, both as The Ring Crew Express and the Roadies. TRIVIA FACT! When Jay Lethal won his first Ring of Honor TV Title, his initial defense was against Kevin at the old Ukrainian Club in Webster, NY. No Kevin didn’t win.

But that’s not the point.

Unfortunately, Kevin’s induction ceremony was interrupted by the jealous Mean Marcos, who took credit for most of Kevin’s success. Can’t everyone just get along?

- Speaking of politics, former WWE CEO Linda McMahon lost her second campaign to become a US Senator from Connecticut.

With over 95 percent of the vote counted, she trailed Chris Murphy 55.1 - 43.2 percent to fill the vacancy left by the retiring Joe Lieberman. Running again as a Republican, Linda ran unsuccessfully two years ago, losing to Richard Blumenthal by nearly the same margin.

It was estimated that Linda spent $93 million on the two elections combined.

While one poll this October had her tied with Murphy, most showed her facing a 4 - 9 point deficit. (Info from www.realclearpolitics.com and the Hartford Courant).

One feels that husband Vince may be a bit Cranky for the next few weeks. For that money, he could hire three or four more writers, or perhaps call up three or four wrestlers in their developmental system. Maybe even a launch his own 24hour cable network. The possibilities are, um, were limitless.

Maybe this will turn into a storyline...

he is looking for big and better things in his future.

Vincent hopes to fight locally within the next three to four months.

•••••••• Nick Casal (22-4-1, 17 KOs) has been back in the gym training since recovering from a brutal attack back in June. Nick is anxious to get in the ring after seeing Vanes Martirosyan fight on HBO and Austin Trout get a title shot against Miguel Cotto. Nick defeated both fighters in the amateurs.

•••••••• Rochester’s Kenny Abril (13-5-1, seven KOs) is scheduled to fight on the Pacquiao-Marquez IV undercard in Las Vegas on Dec. 8.

Kenny is going against veteran Dennis Laurente (43-4-5,

UPCOMING EVENTS Sat. Nov. 17 Kayfabe Dojo Wrestling Pineapple Jack’s 485Spencerport Rd.Rochester, NY - 4 P.M. Sat. Dec. 1 Crossfire Wrestling Merriton Comm.Center 7 Park Ave. St. Catherines, ONT, Canada- 7 P/M. Sat. Dec. 8 ESW St. Johnsbury Fire Hall N. Tonawanda, NY - 6 P.M. Sat. Dec. 8 Neo Wrestling site TBA Niagara Falls, ONT, Canada - 7 P.M. Wed. Dec. 19 WWE Smackdown Blue Cross Arena Rochester, NY - 7:30 P.M. Sun. Dec. 30 TNA Impact Times Union Center Albany, NY - 6 P.M. Sat. May 4 2013 ROH Ted Reeve Arena Toronto, ONT, Canada 7:30 P.M.

MASSIVE MEDIA “Wrestlevision Presents No Limits TV,” is from Big Guy Productions. For Suburban Erie County, it’s on Time-Warner Cable Ch. 20 every Saturday at 4 P.M., with replays Mondays at 11:30 PM. New episodes air whenever we get around to it…It’s Radio, and it’s The Pain Clinic! Listen every Saturday at 10 A.M. on WHTK-AM (1280) in Rochester; you can also listen at www.feelthepain.net.

Turnbuckle Talk is also on the wireless every Monday night at 7 PM on WBNY-FM (91.3) in Buffalo…Finally, Wrestlevision is on the “social media,” The Twitter. Appropriately, the address is @Wrestlevision.

Go figure…

24 KOs) of the Philippines who is rated No.11 by the WBO. This will be a tough assignment but a win would put Abril in line for a regional title shot.

•••••••• The great champion Carmen Basilio died recently in Rochester at the age of 85.

Carmen was one of the last true champions around and was always a fan favorite to the end of his wonderful life.

Basilio last fought in Buffalo 60 years ago this month (11/18/52) when he defeated Chuck Foster in five rounds at Memorial Auditorium.

Also on the card was Dario DiAntonio of Niagara Falls who fought a draw.

December 2012

SPORTS & LEISURE MAGAZINE

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