The Sports Department - February 1 through 14, 2011

The Sports Department Vernon Edition

Serving • Ellington • South Windsor • Tolland • Vernon Also Serving • East Windsor • Enfield • Somers • Stafford

Down For The Count!

South Windsor’s Jake Odel pins Manchester’s Jamie Doyle during a recent wrestling meet. Photo by Steve Palmer, The Sports Department, www.stevepalmerphotography.com

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February 1-14, 2011

Eagles Soar High Thanks To Junior Standout

By Tim Larew The Sports Department It was a few games into her junior season at Tolland High when the girls’ basketball team made the hour and twenty minute trip to face Plainfield a couple of weeks ago. The Plainfield girls’ team couldn’t have liked the thought of going up against Kristin Schatzlein, but the home fans liked the idea even less.

“Our starting lineup gets called out, and as soon as Kristin’s name gets announced, everyone in the gym starts booing,” said Tolland head coach Rocco Sansone, “Here we are, over an hour drive from home, and everyone still knows what Kristin’s capable of doing on the basketball court – you can’t ask for a better compliment.”

Like she’s been doing her whole career, Schatzlein showed exactly why opponents and fans know her name well before she steps onto the floor. She pulled down 11 rebounds and blocked four shots SCHATZLEIN in the first half, and despite not attempting a shot until the second half, Schatzlein finished with 16 points in a huge 49-39 road win.

“I wasn’t expecting the fans to boo me at all,” said Schatzlein, “but I actually liked it. It got me pumped.”

If her performance against Plainfield was any indication of how Schatzlein responds to a little adversity and pressure, future opponents and their fans should probably take note. Coming off a 17-9 year in which they reached the conference and state quarterfinals in their first year in the CCC East, the Eagles are already off to a 10-1 start this season, having won ten straight after dropping a three-point loss to New Britain in the opener.

Much of its success has to do with the awe-inspiring play of Schatzlein, who as a junior is already on pace to reach the 1,000 point milestone sometime within the next two months. She’s averaging 19 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists per game, and for Coach Sansone, there’s no better word to describe her play than “efficient.”

“Kristin’s only a junior, but she’s by far the best player I’ve ever had,” said Sansone, “She scored 28 points in our win over Bristol Eastern, and she only took 17 See “SCHATZLEIN”, Page 4

Inside The Sports Department Columnist Jon Buzby talks about how you can still get ready for Spring Training in the dead of Winter. See Page 3 Ellington Graduate making her mark at WNEC. See the college notebook on page 15.

The Sports Department

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February 1-14, 2011

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Sign up for a FREE subscription to The Sports Department at www.thesportsdept.com • Indian Valley YMCA – 11 Pinney Street • American Karate 175 West Road • Dzen’s Garden Market – 187 Windsorville Road • Ellington Pizza – 188 Windsorville Road • Gerry’s Donuts – 180 Windsorville Road • Davinci’s Pizza – 177 West Road • Advanced Kitchens – 89 West Road • Ellington High School – 37 Maple Street South Windsor • Jackies Family Hair – 980 Sullivan Ave • Red Onion Pizza and Family Restaurant – 855 Sullivan Ave • Red Cabin Restaurant – 976 Sullivan Ave • Buckland Cleaners – 465 Buckland Road • Claytons Kenpo Karate – 942 Sullivan Ave • Oulundsen’s Karate 259 Sullivan Avenue • South Windsor Chamber of Commerce – 22 Morgan Farms Drive • South Windsor High School – 161 Nevers Road • Timothy Edwards Middle School – 100 Arnold Way • South Windsor Recreation Department – 150 Nevers Road • South Windsor Community Center – 150 Nevers Road • Campions Pizza – 465 Buckland Road • Sawadee Thai Cuisine – 465 Buckland Road • Nomads Adventurequest – 100 Bidwell Road The Sports Department is published on the first and third Wednesday of each month and is available at more than 250 locations across eight towns in North Central Connecticut. More than 50,000 readers currently enjoy The Sports Department’s comprehensive coverage of the local sports scene.

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Contributing Writers: Tom Ainsworth • Steve Smith • Reid L. Walmark • David Donner • Nate Owen • Jon Buzby • David Heuschkel • Steve Krajewski • Tim Larew • Robert Tedford • Brendon Willis • Katy Sprout • Katie Powers • Dan Schofer • Ryan Kane • Bruce Watt • Brooke de Lench Photography: Steve Palmer • Andre Dumais • Bernie Sheridan The Sports Department is published monthly, and is available free of charge, at display stands in approved private and public establishments, and through authorized distributors only.

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The Sports Department

February 1-14, 2011

3

Spring Training Can Happen With Snow On The Ground

By Jon Buzby The Sports Department While the weather certainly doesn’t feel like baseball season in Connecticut, it does in Florida, especially in Fort Myers (Red Sox), Port St. Lucie (Mets) and Tampa (Yankees) where pitchers and catchers will report to spring training soon, if they haven’t already (wouldn’t you go down early?).

And while professional athletes will go through a very strict regimen put together by the finest strength and conditioning coaches to prepare themselves for spring training and ultimately the regular season, now is the time to start thinking about loosening up those arms in your house as well.

After all, tryouts are just around the corner (stay tuned to the next edition for spring sports tryout hints).

And it’s not just time for pitchers and catchers to get ready, but every player.

After all, every position on the diamond requires throwing. Obviously pitchers throw more often and consistently harder than any other position player, but every fielder has to throw his or her hardest at some point during a game and will be expected to at whatever tryout you are attending and/or those early season practices.

One thing often overlooked by kids is the importance of stretching your arms and upper body, not only before throwing, but after and in between throwing sessions too. While the legs are very involved in the throwing process, players tend to naturally stretch them more than the arms. On even the coldest, snowiest days, the arms and upper body can and should be stretched in the comfort and warmth of your home.

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Weather can’t be used as an excuse not to stretch. You can search the Internet for great stretching exercises.

If you are able to throw indoors somewhere, that’s the ideal situation. You can start throwing with softer, shorter tosses and eventually work your way to a “real live” throw. But even if you can’t throw very far where you workout, you can focus on proper mechanics and getting your arm muscles to develop muscle memory. Like with any “new” exercise, ease your way back into it. It’s better to throw less than too much this early in the season.

If your only chance to throw indoors is in your house, try your basement or garage.

Even if the ceilings are low, you can squat on one knee and focus on mechanics and over-emphasizing the throwing motion to maximize body movement. Yes, even the pros do this early on in spring training.

Throw outdoors when the weather allows. Remember, perfect weather isn’t going to happen anytime soon, but if you get a day where a couple layers and knit hat keep you warm enough to head out for 10 minutes, take advantage of it. And remember, even if you have to wear a winter glove on your throwing hand, you’re

still going to reap the benefits of using your arm.

Make sure to stretch after you throw, no matter how short or long your session.

Like with any program, do some research to find out exactly what stretching is best after throwing, because it is just as important as stretching before, it’s just often overlooked, especially by younger, less serious players. But those “less serious arms” will also get hurt if not taken care of properly.

Ice your arm if you feel unusually sore at all, even in the winter. Even if for just 10 minutes.

And as you would do with any sportsrelated pain, if it feels worse than just your usual preseason stiff arm, see a doctor.

Get it checked out while you still have time to heal before opening day.

Yes, it would be nice to head to Florida for spring training, but since you aren’t, make sure to have your own spring training in Connecticut. And just like the pros, now is the time to start.

You can start throwing with softer, shorter tosses and eventually work your way to a “real live” throw.

Reach syndicated columnist Jon Buzby at jonbuzby@hotmail.com, and be sure to read his weekly Sports Buzz online at www.thesportsdept.com.

The Sports Department

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February 1-14, 2011

Schatzlein Follows In Footsteps Of Older Sister Continued from Page 1 shots. She’s just incredibly efficient. She could score 40 points a game if she took more shots, but she’d rather distribute the ball and make sure everyone’s a part of the game. That might be the best thing about her.�

Schatzlein is shooting a blistering 55 percent from beyond the arc, but Sansone said she’s an even better passer than she is a shooter. The 6’0� guard/ forward has filled a multitude of roles since the first time she donned the Tolland jersey. As a freshman, she played a year alongside her sister Kelly who was a senior and now plays for Merrimack College. The sisters combined for 700 points and 80 percent of the team’s scoring that first year of Kristin’s high school career, and she believes that year was huge in terms of her development as a player. “Playing alongside Kelly my freshman year really brought my confidence up,� said Schatzlein. “She always pushed me as hard as she could in practice and games because she wanted me to be the best player I could be. When she graduated, I took over her role, in a way.

I started pushing everyone and being a leader both on and off the court.�

Though she was just a freshman at the time, Sansone knew exactly what he was going to get from Schatzlein over the rest of her career. “It may have been Kelly’s team, but you could tell the second best player on the floor was Kristin,� said Sansone,

“She could always make the pass, she could always make the three ball, and she was never afraid to step into her role. The hardest thing was trying to get her to understand just how good she could be.�

In just a couple of years, Schatzlein has blossomed into a frighteningly wellrounded player and a true Division-I prospect. She earned all-conference awards in each of her first two seasons and is a shoe-in for another one this year. Schatzlein has the Eagles off to a terrific start, but until she achieves her ultimate goals, her work is far from done. “Every game I want to play my best and push myself to be a better player,� said Schatzlein, “Our team goals are simple, to win the CCC East and the Class M state championship.�

It’s impossible to know whether the Tolland High girls’ basketball team will make a deep run in the postseason, but they’ve gotten off to the right start.

Schatzlein rounds out a core group of four juniors and one senior who have played together since fifth grade, and the group has a lot to do with why Sansone calls this season the greatest coaching season he’s had in his seven years at Tolland.

Like any team that has done great things at any level in the past, success starts with its leader. Schatzlein has done it all for the Eagles on both ends of the floor and is the type of player that every coach can only wish to be lucky enough to work with.

Kristin Schatzlein has made her own name for herself after following in the footsteps of her sister Kelly. Photo on left

by Steve Palmer, The Sports Department, www.stevepalmerphotography.com. Photo on bottom by Sherrene Wells, The Sports Department, www. wellsphotogallery.com

“She’s a special kid,� said Sansone, “She’s the best player on the floor almost every night, but she’s not the type of player that will pound her chest and signal to the crowd after she makes a shot.

She just makes shots and heads back

down the other end to play defense.

She’s level-headed, down-to-earth, and just looking to have fun.�

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The Sports Tolland Department

February 1-14, 2011

Andrew Roussey (55), Mike Nisbet (42),, and Matt Grospitch (21) battle for a loose ball during a game against Rockville. Photo

by Sherrene Wells, The Sports Department, www.wellsphotogallery. com

Corey Keane swats a shot during midseason action.

Photo by Sherrene Wells, The Sports Department, www. wellsphotogallery.com

Tolland’s Connor Klopfer skates backwards in preparation for the Rockville-ManchesterStafford attack. Photo by Sherrene Wells, The Sports Department, www.wellsphotogallery.com

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EOTW’s Drew Whitlock of Tolland tries to get in position in front of the net. Photo

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The Sports Tolland Department

6

Tolland

Student Athlete of the Month Nickname: Jess Accomplishments: High honors in every high school semester. Made the all-conference team for softball freshman and sophomore year. Made it to the state semifinals last year for basketball GPA: 4.0 Other sports: Soccer; Softball How do you prepare for a game: Braid my teammates’ hair; eat a pb&j sandwich Thoughts on the season: We have a very young and talented team composed of a great group of girls. I think we will go far this year and next year.

Toughest team to play against: E.O. Smith Favorite sports memory: Pitching a perfect game against Enfield Favorite memory of high school: Beating Rocky Hill in soccer on October 5, 2009 and hearing the varsity boys soccer team yell “SAY YES JESS!” during our cool-down jog across the field as my boyfriend held up a big sign asking me out Role model or inspirational person in your life: Parents; Jen Moser Most embarrassing moment: Getting pushed around on a ball rack by my basketball coach during practice while wearing a cowboy hat on my birthday Toughest challenge I’ve overcome: Maintaining my grade point average while playing three varsity sports and AAU basketball Favorite athlete: Sue Bird

Jessica Olson Basketball Most famous (or near famous) person I ever met: Jim Calhoun Person I’d like most to meet: Taylor Swift Favorite way to relax: Listen to music Favorite class: English (especially the writing) Favorite snack food: Cheddar gold fish Favorite band: Five for Fighting; Train Favorite restaurant: Olive Garden Red Sox or Yankees: Red Sox all the way!

Favorite movie: Pearl Harbor; Anchorman Favorite television show: Criminal Minds Plans after high school: Go to college and receive a nursing degree

Beginning in 2011, The Trophy Shop in Vernon will provide commemorative plaques for The Sports Department’s Student Athletes of The Month. The Trophy Shop is located at 214 Hartford Turnpike in Vernon CT.

February 1-14, 2011

Tolland Parks and Recreation

So Much To Do In The Shortest Month

By Tom Ainsworth The Sports Department Well here we are again, February, the 2nd month of the year. The Rhode Island of months, the only month with less than 30 days, the southern hemispheres equivalent of August.

The Anglo Saxons called it “Solmonath”, which translates to Mud Month! For the shortest month of the year it sure packs in a lot. Ground Hogs Day, Presidents Day and don’t forget Valentines Day or there will be trouble!

So what are you going to do to make the most of your February? There’s still plenty of snow for skiing, sledding, and this year even snow shoeing. It’s still cold enough for ice skating, ice fishing, or even ice climbing if you’re in to that.

If you just feel like hiding till the snow melts, learn to knit, sew, paint, write a book, or poetry, learn a language, improve your computer skills, you can do that and more all from home with our many online programs.

Feeling like you’ve hibernated enough and need some human interaction, then come out and Zumba your blues away, learn self defense, take a yoga class, learn pilates, play basketball, improve your golf game or learn to play, take a safe boating course, take kick boxing boot camp, or try Reiki. There are plenty of activities available for everyone in

the family to enjoy and you can register online without additional fees!

While you’re at it don’t forget to register for the 4th Annual Summer Solstice Triathlon scheduled for Saturday, June 18th.

As always we like to hear from you with your ideas for new programs and activities and feedback on ways to improve existing offerings. If you have any questions about any of our recreation programs, please give us a call at 860-871-3610.

Looking forward to the mud and hoping to see you out and about!

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The Sports Hockey Department

February 1-14, 2011

7

Tri-Town Looking to Go Deeper in Playoffs

By Nate Owen The Sports Department A promising season came crashing to a disappointing end for Tri-Town last year.

Tri-Town finished 15-6, but lost to Darien last year in the third round of the state playoffs, sending the team home with extra motivation for this season.

“Our whole goal is to make the state tournament,” head coach Paul Dowe said. “Last year it was a game we probably should have won, but we got our butts kicked. We did not play well. With the season we’re having, we [should] be able to solidify home ice and go a lot deeper.”

Tri-Town checks in at 9-1 to close January. The team has gotten solid goaltending from Mitch Diresta and has received contributions from all through the lineup from players such as captain Steve Pernal, assistant captains Mike Hanna, Justin Locke, and Ian Leiching, along with Cullen Roberts, Nick Binkowski, and Zach Palmer.

‘We’ve had multiple players step up and score when we needed the big goal,” Dowe said. “The biggest thing has been the senior leadership. The seniors’ contributions have helped out big time. They know what it takes to win.”

Stafford Contingent Making Presence Felt Facing a numbers crunch, RockvilleManchester-Stafford hockey coach Christian Stevenson needed to look for reinforcements for his hockey program.

“Both the Rockville and Manchester numbers were down,” he said. “Sometimes we

do have people coming through the middle schools heading into some down years, but not this year.”

The matter was even more pressing given that the team has nine seniors this year, and would have had trouble fielding a squad next season. Enter Stafford, who has four players in the program in its first year.

“We needed to find the best fit that was somewhat local,” Stevenson said, adding that if he didn’t move quickly, a potential partner could sign on with another program.

Matt Roy, Marc Richard and Shawn and John Sellew are the current Stafford players on the team. Richard and Shawn Sellew are still learning as freshman, Stevenson said, while John Sellew has played both up front and the blueline on a regular basis.

Roy has teamed with starter Ryan Villanvry in net to give the team solid goaltending options, something they lacked last season, when they only won five games.

They matched that mark on Jan. 22, with an 8-3 decision over Rocky Hill-RHAMMiddletown. “[Having solid goaltending] really sparked everyone,” Stevenson said.

The team has also been buoyed by the play of captain Travis Mistrella, who could have left to play at a higher level prep school, but stayed for his senior season.

Mistrella primarily plays forward, but drops back on defense as needed.

“He’s outstanding,” Stevenson said. “He makes us go.”

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1. Jack Johnson, Rockville-ManchesterStafford, 15-8-23 2. Joe Bonazelli, South Windsor 12-8-20 3. Nate Waldeisen, South Windsor, 11-718 4. Mike Hanna, Tri-Town, 15-2-17 5. Tyler Glassman, South Windsor, 9-8-17 6. Angus Deane, Rockville-ManchesterStafford, 6-11-17 7. Dan Haver, Fermi, 11-5-16 8. Ryan Ghune, Fermi, 6-8-14

9. Joey Rush, Fermi 5-7-12 10. Nick Smith, Enfield, 6-5-11 10. Brian Borbas, Tri-Town, 4-7-11

The Top 10 Area Scorers are from within the eight town distribution of The Sports Department. TSD is not responsible for any omissions or errors as the data is provided by the respective coaches. For more scoring leaders see www.thesportsdept. com

Tri-Town’s Tom McCabe (17) of East Windsor and Stephen Pernal of Ellington battle for a puck against BCL. Photo by Steve Palmer, The Sports Department, www.stevepalmerphotography.com

As part of a team building activity, the Raiders will travel to Washington D.C. to see the Capitals take on the Pittsburgh Penguins on Feb. 6. Enfield head coach Joe Bonfiglio and Fermi head coach Frank Genovese were both selected to be assistant coaches at this year’s Connecticut High School Junior Select All-Star Game.

The game will be held Saturday, March 26 at the Nortford Ice Pavilion. The Junior Select game will start at 5 p.m. The winning coach staff of the game will then select a group of players from both teams to play against an All-Star team from Massachusetts on April 3 at 3 p.m. The Raiders will

also participate in the Whalers Hockey Winter Fest. They’ll face Northwest Catholic at Rentschler field on Friday, Feb. 18 at 5 p.m. Tickets for the Winter Fest can be purchased at www.raidershockey.net.

Fermi Sweeps Suffield The Falcons are only 3-6-1 entering the last weekend of January but were able to sweep the season series from Suffield in a pair of hard fought 4-3 games, according to Genovese.

Ryan Guhne, Dan Haber, Joey Rush, and Shaun Kellam have all been solid for the Falcons, Genovese said.

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The Sports Ellington Department

8

Ellington

Student Athlete of the Month Nickname: Graves Accomplishments: National Honor Society, 2010 All Conference basketball, 2010 All Conference baseball GPA: 3.6 Other sports: Baseball How do you prepare for a game: I usually eat a good meal and listen to music.

Thoughts on the season: I think our team has a lot of potential and we are definitely starting to come together more and showing how good we can be.

Toughest team to play against: Avon Favorite sports memory: Scoring 50 points against Stafford Favorite memory of high school: Hanging out with my friends Role model or inspirational person in your life: My parents Most embarrassing moment: Missing a dunk at pep rally Toughest challenge I’ve overcome: Getting knee surgery prior to this season and getting back into basketball shape once I was cleared to play Favorite athlete: Jon Lester Most famous (or near famous) person I ever met: Zac Brown Person I’d like most to meet: Michael Jordan Favorite way to relax: Listen to music or play Xbox Favorite class: Principles of Technol-

February 1-14, 2011

Ellington Parks and Recreation

Openings For Some Youth Lacrosse Teams Bob Tedford The Sports Department Winter has arrived and appears to be planning on a long-term stay! Please be careful when parking your vehicles and ‘walking’ through the parking lots, and please wipe your feet on the mats as best you can.

Zack Graves Basketball ogy Favorite snack food: Chips and salsa Favorite band: Wiz Khalifa Favorite restaurant: Outback Steakhouse Red Sox or Yankees: Red Sox Favorite movie: Grandma’s Boy Favorite television show: SportsCenter Plans after high school: Go to college and major in something in the medical field

Beginning in 2011, The Trophy Shop in Vernon will provide commemorative plaques for The Sports Department’s Student Athletes of The Month. The Trophy Shop is located at 214 Hartford Turnpike in Vernon CT.

to offer the appropriate training courses for all volunteers within the town’s programs.

To register go to: Ellington.safety@yahoo. com Upcoming class dates: Feb. 23: 5-9 p.m.; March 26: 8 a.m.-noon; April 13: 5-9pm.

There is no charge for taking this class.

Late Registration Jan. 31 was the initial registration deadline for spring youth lacrosse, and team entries will be based on enrollment as of that date; however, late registrations will be accepted in those divisions that have openings. Access the town’s website immediately in order to determine enrollment openings. Grades 3-4, 5-6, 7-8 are offered (boys and girls) along with a K-2nd grade instructional program. Individuals wishing to become an assistant coach should contact Bob Tedford at the recreation office, 860870-3118.

2011 Ellington Sprint Triathlon Early registration for this year’s sprint triathlon begins March 1 go to: www.ellingtontriathlon.com to register. July 17 is the scheduled date with July 24 set aside for the rain date. Last year’s event sold out at 200 entrants.

AED/CPR/First Aid Training The recreation department will continue

Early Bird Notice Tickets are available for a bus trip to Fenway Park on Friday, July 8 to watch the Boston Red Sox play the Baltimore Orioles.

Seat location will be in the right field Box92. Tickets are available at the recreation office, first-come, first serve, and are $95 per person, includes round trip motorcoach.

Spring/Summer ASA umpire The recreation department will offer a preseason clinic and test for individuals seeking to become an American Softball Association certified umpire. Please contact Bob Tedford at rtedford@ellington-ct.gov Mini-programs Please access the town’s website: www. ellington-ct.gov under parks and recreation to view the various programs that are available.

Baseball/Softball Registrations On Feb. 5, baseball and softball registrations will be held at the Ellington Middle School from 9-noon.

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The Sports Ellington Department

February 1-14, 2011

9 Tri-Town’s Stepehn Pernal is about to hit the deck after a check on an Amity forward as he tries to clear the defensive zone. Photo by Steve Palmer, The Sports Department, www.stevepalmerphotography.com

Ellington’s Zack Graves, one of the top players in the conference, looks to get a basket during the Knights game against East Windsor. Photo by Steve Palmer, The Sports Department, www.stevepalmerphotography. com

Ellington’s Chris Philavong is just a little bit late on the jump shot by East Windsor’s Ryan Briggs. Ellington won the game, 55-31. Photo by Steve Palmer, The Sports Department, www. stevepalmerphotography.com

Ellington’s Savannah Kresge tries to split the defense on her way to the hoop.

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TheBoys Sports Department Basketball

February 1-14, 2011

Tolland Looking To Resume Regular Season After Hiatus

By Tim Larew The Sports Department Tolland will look to get back to basketball after a weeklong hiatus following a locker room incident at E.O. Smith in late January which forced the Eagles to forfeit one game and forego nearly a week of practice. The decision to forfeit the January 24th game vs. East Catholic was an administrative one in response to the incident at E.O. Smith.

School administrators and the team were scheduled to meet on Tuesday to put a plan in place for immediate resumption of the regular season schedule, according to athletic director Patrick Cox. Prior to the break, Tolland put together a nice stretch of games in January in which it had won three of four, capped off by a 6463 win at Rocky Hill. The Eagles trailed for much of the game and by as many as five in the waning minutes, but came back and picked up their first road win of the season.

Prior to the takedown of Rocky Hill, Tolland had beaten Fermi and Rockville before losing to Bloomfield 75-58.

Though Tolland will now have to rebound from a tough week, head coach Mike Lewis has faith in his squad. “We’re 3-3 in CCC East and we’re focusing on improving every day as we head into the second half of the season,” said Lewis, “We know what we are capable of, we just have to put it together.”

Senior Andrew Roussey has been putting it together all year for the Eagles, averaging 17.4 ppg to pace the Tolland offensive attack. Also putting up solid numbers for the Eagles are sophomore Taylor Fortin and senior Kris Strobel who are averaging 8.2 and 8.1 ppg, respectively.

Ellington It’s been a mix of ups and downs the past few weeks for the Ellington boys basketball team. In its third game back from break, the Knights dropped a tough one at home to Enfield despite a balanced offensive attack in which three players scored in double figures. After that loss, however, the Knights regrouped with a big 59-51 win in Canton that ignited a four-game winning streak.

Senior guard Mike Gresh played very well through the stretch, improving both his scoring average and assist to turnover ratio.

Following their 55-45 win at Coventry that extended the winning streak to four, the Knights stumbled with back-to-back road losses to Avon and Somers, dropping to 7-5 on the year. Ellington hasn’t lost by more than seven points in their four January losses, so closing out games has proven to be an issue.

Still, the Knights boast one of the most potent offenses in the NCCC, with Gresh and senior wingman Dan Schofer both averaging more than 11 points per game and All-Conference senior center Zack Graves averaging better than 19 points and 12 rebounds per contest.

“We’ve been playing well in spurts but we just need to put it all together,” said Gresh, “Our main goals moving forward are just to get stronger mentally as a team and pick it up on the defensive end.”

Rockville The Rockville High boy’s basketball team has been struggling to mount a con-

1. Tre Preston, Enfield, 25.1 ppg 2. Zack Graves, Ellington, 19.2 ppg 3. Evan Woicik, Somers, 18.7 ppg 4. Andrew Roussey, Tolland, 17.4 ppg 5. Jordan Jones, South Windsor 17.1 ppg 6. Mike Gresh, Ellington, 12.2 ppg 7. Josh Patsun, Somers, 11.6 ppg 8. Paul Lima, Enfield, 11.4 ppg 9. Pat Boudreau, Fermi, 11.3 ppg

10. Dan Schofer, Ellington, 10.7 ppg The Top 10 Area Scorers are from within the eight town distribution of The Sports Department. TSD is not responsible for any omissions or errors as the data is provided by the respective coaches.

For more scoring leaders see www. thesportsdept.com

See More Scoring Leaders at www.thesportsdept.com

sistent offensive attack so far this season, but head coach Peter McCann is still very happy with his group’s performance and demeanor as a whole.

“Scoring has been an issue for us all season, but the kids’ attitudes have been great,” said McCann, “We’re turning the ball over too much and shooting just about 20 percent from the field, but the three seniors have stayed positive through the adversity and the youthful enthusiasm of the younger guys has helped.”

After beating Rocky Hill 42-36 for its first win back in December, Rockville went through a tough stretch of games but regrouped and defeated Fermi 64-60 behind a big game from Mike Faniel, the team’s scoring leader, averaging 9.6 ppg. Fermi had Rockville against the ropes early as the Rams fell into a 21-4 hole, but Faniel led a steady comeback and his squad picked up its first road win. Faniel finished with 15 points and 14 rebounds and Tavi Kelly added a game-high 18 points, 16 of which came in the second half.

The Rams’ attempt to win back-to-back

games for the first time this season fell short against Glastonbury as they dropped to 2-8 on the season, but still the team showed signs of improvement. Tyler Green and Neil Gentile have played well and emerged as consistent scoring options for the Rams recently, averaging eight and six points per game, respectively.

Shaq Smith of South Windsor tries to box out two Manchester players for a rebound.

Photo by Steve Palmer, The Sports Department, www.stevepalmerphotography.com

South Windsor It took South Windsor High boys’ head coach Brendan McClay ten tries, but at last he got his first win as coach of the Bobcats as his team defeated Fermi 53-44 on January 25th.

South Windsor has struggled as a young team under a first-year coach in a tough conference, but McClay sees that his players are really starting to buy into the new philosophy. “We’re getting there,” said McClay, “Our record doesn’t show it, but we’re seeing a lot of improvement. The kids are really starting to see how the process of rebuilding and improving as a team is going to work.”

A perfect example of the Bobcats’ im-

provement as a team is clear in comparing the two games they’ve faced off against Glastonbury this season. Back in December, Glastonbury visited South Windsor and trounced the home team 70-39, but just over a month later it was a different story for McClay and his team. The Bobcats took to he road and gave Glastonbury all they could handle, eventually losing, 57-52.

Leading scorer and senior captain Jordan Jones scored 13 points in South Windsor’s win over Fermi, and then followed that up with a 23-point performance in their narrow loss to Glastonbury. Shaq Smith wasn’t far behind Jones, scoring 15 to fuel the Bobcat offense as they nearly pulled off the upset on the road.

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The South SportsWindsor Department

February 1-14, 2011

S outh Windsor Student Athlete of the Month

Nickname: Maddie Accomplishments: Highest Female GPA, All State, All Conference, All Academic GPA: 3.68 Other sports: Pole Vault How do you prepare for a game: Relax Thoughts on the season: We have a young team but I hope we make it to states again!

Toughest team to play against: Glastonbury Favorite sports memory: Making AllState last year.

Favorite memory of high school: So far my favorite parts have been the dances, but I’m only a sophomore so I’m sure there will be more to come!

Role model or inspirational person in your life: My parents Most embarrassing moment: Can’t think of one!

Toughest challenge I’ve overcome: My knee injury last year Favorite athlete: Shawn Johnson Most famous (or near famous) person I ever met: Nastia Liukin Person I’d like most to meet: Jason Mraz

11

South Windsor Parks and Recreation

Softball League To Hold Meeting For Upcoming Season

By Ryan Kane The Sports Department All Winter programs and offerings are in the brochure or online at recreation. southwindsor.org. Registration is ongoing for both residents and non-residents. You can register for programs at the office, by mail or online. The recreation office can be reached at: (860) 648-6355. Office hours are: Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Madison O’Brien Gymnastics Favorite way to relax: Listening to music Favorite class: English Favorite snack food: Ice cream Favorite band: Plain White Tee’s Favorite Restaurant: Hard Rock Cafe Red Sox or Yankees: Red Sox Favorite movie: Elf Favorite television show: Saturday Night Live Plans after high school: College, hopefully med school!

Beginning in 2011, The Trophy Shop in Vernon will provide commemorative plaques for The Sports Department’s Student Athletes of The Month. The Trophy Shop is located at 214 Hartford Turnpike in Vernon CT.

The recreation office can be reached at: (860) 6486355. Office hours are: MondayFriday 8 a.m.4:30 p.m.

Softball League Spend time with friends, make new ones, or just enjoy playing softball. Any teams interested in playing in the South Windsor Summer Men’s Adult Softball League should attend an organizational meeting on March 10th at 6:30 p.m. at the South Windsor Community Center. The league format and rules will be discussed.

Games are played Monday - Thursday at Rye Street Park, from late Spring into the Summer.

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spectrum. Play will be facilitated by professionals and volunteers, and will include planned activities as well as space for free play. Parents must attend with their child.

• Saturdays, February 5, 12, 19, 26, SWCC, room 214, Fee: $40 • Activity # 225003C, Ages 4-10, 10 a.m.11:30 a.m.

Learn to Skate Program Learn to skate is a beginning ice skating program that is challenging and rewarding – but most of all, fun. Participation in the program will enable beginning skaters of all ages and abilities to learn the fundamentals of ice skating while teaching them the necessary skills that are used for their further skating advancement. Skate rentals available for an additional $3/night, must provide your own helmet.

• Activity #156902F, Ages 5-10, South Windsor Arena,

Fee: $80 • Fridays, 5:30 p.m.- 6:30 p.m, Feb. 4, Feb. 11, Feb. 18, Feb. 25

Family Skate Join us for a night of family fun, ice skating at South Windsor Arena. On the designated evenings South Windsor residents will receive a discounted admission cost, with coupons purchased in advance through the Recreation office. This is a great family event and way to get active on days with no school in the cold of winter.

Whether you are an avid ice skater or just a beginner you will have fun. Full service restaurant on site for hot chocolate or pizza.

• Activity # 156902E, February 21st, 1 p.m.- 2:30 p.m.

• Admission: Purchase discounted admission tickets at Recreation Office, discounted price of $3 ($2 savings) for South Windsor Residents. Skate Rental: $3 payable at arena.

For Adult Sports League Standings, Please visit us on the web at recreation. southwindsor.org

The South SportsWindsor Department

12

Kyle Benson elevates a backhander by the glove of Fermi’s Brandon Carey. Photo

by Steve Palmer, The Sports Department, www.stevepalmerphotography.com

Jordan Jones splits two Manchester defenders on his way to the basket. Photo by Steve Palmer, The Sports Department, www.stevepalmerphotography.com

South Windsor’s Keith Dalesio takes down Manchester’s Jake Churchilla. Dalesio won the match by decision. Photo by Steve Palmer, The Sports Department, www.stevepalmerphotography.com

Sharraye Matthews gets a smile of approval after one of her routines.

Photo by Sherrene Wells, The Sports Department, www.wellsphotogallery.com

South Windsor’s Chris Gionfriddo is upended after colliding with Fermi’s Daniel Haber.

Photo by Steve Palmer, The Sports Department, www.stevepalmerphotography.com

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February 1-14, 2011

TheGirls Sports Department Basketball

February 1-14, 2011

13

Ellington Girls Qualify For Class M Tournament

By Reid L. Walmark The Sports Department The Ellington Purple Knights (10-3), who are 8-2 in the NCCC, have won five in a row and have already qualified for the CIAC Class M state tournament. Kelly Conley, averaging close to 19 points per game, has an outside chance at reaching 1,000 career points by the end of the regular season on Feb. 17 “Our defense and rebounding are continuing to improve and more importantly we are getting a lot more offensive help from other players,” said coach Lauren Beeler. Savannah Kresge, Ellington’s third leading scorer, had 17 against Avon.

Julie Gage is the No. 2 scorer.

Tolland The Eagles (10-3) have lost two in a row after a 10-game winning streak from Dec. 10 through Jan. 19. The losses have come against Manchester (13-0), ranked No. 2 in the state, and E.O. Smith (13-1), 12th in the latest statewide poll. Tolland received votes, the fewest among the 23 schools in the poll.

Overconfidence from the winning streak didn’t lead to difficulties against E.O. Smith and Manchester, coach Rocco Sansone said, making the adjustment to stronger competition was the factor. “E.O. Smith put us on our heels. We were down 8-0 early,” he said. Tolland regrouped and lost 50-46.

“I like how everyone’s contributing,” Sansone said. “I can play 15 kids and usually everyone has points in the box

1. Kelly Conley, Ellington, 18.8 ppg 2. Ashley Kinney, Somers, 17.4 ppg 3. Kristin Schatzlein, Tolland, 17.0 ppg 4. Brianna Heald, Stafford, 12.6 ppg 5. Julie Gage, Ellington, 11.5 ppg 6. Toni Alexander, Fermi, 9.0 ppg 7. Kerry Davis, Fermi, 8.8 ppg 8. Savanna Gray, South Windsor, 8.3 ppg 9. Melissa McCann, Rockville, 8.1 ppg

Savannah Kresge tries a runner in the lane against Suffield. score.” By the end of the season, Tolland needs to improve its defensive rebounding and cut down on its turnovers, Sansone said.

Rockville Rockville (0-11), with only senior in the starting lineup, has continued to improve, although the results aren’t showing up in the won-lost column. Coach Craig Archambault sees progress within the young players (Courtney Joubert, Wendy Weston, Daphne Botteron, Danielle Wemmel) and in the team.

In a 55-33 loss to South Windsor on Jan. 25, the Rams were blitzed in the second quarter. Take away that quarter, Archambault said, and it was essentially

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a one-point game. “They pressed a lot in the second quarter and we didn’t handle it well. We led by one after the first quarter, then we threw the ball away in the second,” he said.

Senior Melissa McCann had 12 points against Tolland on Jan. 11 and has remained a steadying influence on the younger players.

South Windsor The Bobcats (7-7) have been victimized by playing a brutal schedule, with five losses coming against teams in the poll. Discount those games and South Windsor’s record would be 7-2.

Coach Don Leclerc acknowledges that the school snow days and postponed games have disrupted the rhythm of all teams but he feels interruptions hurt younger teams, trying to develop routines and habits, even more. South Windsor is young.

Leclerc has been impressed with senior forward Emily Johnston, who is now drawing the assignment of guarding the opposition’s main scoring threat.

“She’s limiting their scoring,” he said. “In the Manchester game, she covered [AllState] Ashley Perez and shut her down in the second half.”

Somers The Spartans (4-10) have lost three in a row, after a two-game winning streak, and need to finish 4-2 to qualify for the Class S state tournament, the team’s season-long goal. Coach Alan Walker has seen signs of the offense reviving.

“Our scoring is more balanced,” Walker said. “We’ve been able to increase our scoring opportunities with more consistent rebounding and minimizing turnovers, and each game our efficiency has improved.”

The play of point guard Ashley Kinney, the Spartans’ leading scorer at 17.4 points per game, has been “instrumental” in the offense’s improvement, Walker said.

East Windsor The Panthers (4-9) have lost six in a row. They need to win four of their last seven games to qualify for the Class S tournament. The culprit during the losing streak has been unreliable defense.

“Until the team is able to pick up its defense, it is going to be tough to win game,” said coach Bob Lengyel. Lengyel is doing a lot of teaching on team defensive concepts. Opponents see the Panthers’ hesitancy in rotating defensively, Lengyel said, “and they are able to pick that apart.”

10. Rachel Kaliff, Enfield, 7.7 ppg The Top 10 Area Scorers are from within the eight town distribution of The Sports Department. TSD is not responsible for any omissions or errors as the data is provided by the respective coaches.

For more scoring leaders see www. thesportsdept.com

Lengyel has been impressed by the growth of junior Maira Pantoja, a firstyear starter. Her offensive output is becoming steady, he said. “And she has become a much stronger defender.”

Fermi The Falcons (1-11) received a boost when Toni Alexander returned from torn ankle ligaments that kept her sidelined for three weeks, coming back Jan. 11 against Bloomfield. “The offense has more of a flow to it now,” coach Sean Sweeney said. “There was a stretch there where we were struggling to score 25 points as a team. We have to keep working at it. We need to play consistently for 32 minutes.”

Fermi has hustled but gives up height to nearly every opponent. Sweeney says Alexander has a calming presence. “She really is that important to us. She was dying to get back. She’s worth 30 points for us, in scoring and just in directing the offense and her with her defense.”

Enfield The Raiders are 0-12. The team is having problems scoring for coach Bruce Hargraves, who is satisfied with Enfield’s defense. “With everyone continuing to progress offensively, the scoring has been improving. Everyone continues to work diligently in practice and give their best efforts during the games,” Hargraves said.

He has emphasized improving the ball handling and that has resulted in fewer turnovers than 2009-10. Rachel Kaliff, the leading scorer, and Victoria Leahy, Summer Smith and Kendell Martin have been the reliable rebounders. Emily Rund, Wendy Paul and Hannah Richards have helped the defensive effort.

The most impressive among the 11 first-year players have been Taylor Maier and Maggie Richards.

Stafford The Bulldogs (3-9) have lost seven in a row, last winning on Jan. 4 against Enfield. Senior captain Brianna Heald has been handling most of the scoring responsibilities, coach Erin Clark said.

She is averaging 12.6 points per game.

“Brianna’s been seeing a lot of boxand-ones and getting a lot of pressure put on her. She keeps fighting through it. Brianna’s not just a scorer, she’s a tough rebounder and a good play-maker who distributes the ball well.”

Junior Lauren Shaw, in her first year as a starter, is moving from a role player to becoming a productive target on offense, Clark said.

The Sports Department

14

February 1-14, 2011

Local Digest Vernon And Rockville LL To Hold Registration

Little League Baseball Registration & Softball Registration for both Vernon and Rockville Leagues will be held at Vernon Center Middle School February 7th and 9th from 6-8 p.m. Anyone in the Vernon School District community interested in serving on the Rockville High School Athletic Hall of Fame committee, please contact Athletic Director Steve Phelps at steven.phelps@vernonct. org

Ellington/Somers Football Comedy Night Fundraiser

The Ellington/Somers football team will hold a Comedy Night Fundraiser at The Kosciuszko Club in Vernon on Feb 26 from 7-midnight. It is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Ellington/Somers Football program. Tickets are $30 each, BYOB, Hot and Cold Appetizers. Tickets can be purchased at www.EllingtonFootball.com

Ellington Softball Registration

The Ellington girls softball league for ages 6-16 will be holding registration, Saturday, Feb. 5 from 9 a.m.-noon at the Ellington Middle School Cafeteria.

First time players must bring an original, certified birth certificate and a parent/ guardian valid driver’s license. Returning families can register online at www. ellingtongirlssoftball.org. Online registration closes on Feb. 13.

Ellington 5-6th Grade Boys Win Hammick Invitational Tournament

The Ellington 6th Grade Boys Basketball team (pictured took first place in the annual Fred Hammick Invitational Basketball Tournament in South Windsor last month. Pictured Front row left to right - Jack Zuffelatto, Max Daniel, Kyle Luginbuhl, Mike McGuirl, Colby Unterstein - back row - Kevin Redler, Ruyan Weitz, head coach Pat McGuirl, Ricardo Papa, Josh Sumisloski Josh Baskin, assistant coach Chad Luginbuhl

Recently, Allyson Fournier of South Windsor and East Catholic student, has signed a commitment to play for Tufts University next season. During the past summer, Allyson pitched for the CT Eliminators 94 Black team who played an extensive showcase season competing against the top teams in the Eastern US. Over the summer Allyson posted an ERA of 0.83 that caught the attention of some significant college programs. Coupling Allyson’s performance on the field with her stellar academics, she was highly recruited by Yale, Cornell and Stonybrook University. Fournier maintains a GPA of 4.36 at ECHS. Last season Allyson shared the pitching duties at East Catholic and went 8-2, had an ERA of .96, averaged 16 strikeouts per game, threw two no-hitters and several one-hitters and was selected to Hartford Courant All-State team, CCC All Conference team and named to the CHSCA Junior All Star team.

EW U11 Team Receives Trophies

On January 6, the East Windsor Boys U11 Travel Team (pictured) received their trophies for winning the league title in the Fall. Pictured in photo: Back row, L to R: Coach Jeff Rodrigue, Derek Lezon, Dejoir Farley, Jordan Garner, Daniel Bell, Quinton Pepin, Deegan Burke, Coach Brian Turley. Front row, L to R: Brandon Coley, Nico Brigada, Tim Rodrigue, Cam Turley, Timur Couture, Seth Gelsomino, and Jeff Rodrigue. Missing from photo: Joshua Paleski. Photo by Deb Brigada

Manchester-Rockville Alumni Game Raises Money For Hockey Program

Manchester and Rockville high schools played in their 6th Annual Alumni game (pictured) on Jan. 1 at the Bolton Ice Palace. Proceeds for the game

Manchester High School Boys’ Basketball Alumni Night

Manchester High School Boys’ Basketball is hosting its first annual Alumni Night to be held on February 7. All former MHS boys’ basketball players are invited to join in Clarke Arena, free of charge, to watch the MHS Indians vs. East Hartford Hornets. The JV game begins at 5:30 p.m. and the Varsity game at 6:45 p.m.. Register by February 1 and player’s admission price is free. Send email to Coach Healy (healyhoops@sbcglobal.net) with your name and year you graduated from Manchester High School. No discounts offered day of game. Please arrive by 6:30 p.m. for a pregame ceremony and at the conclusion of the varsity game a social reception for players will be held in the Manchester High School cafeteria. Contact your former teammates and encourage them to join. For more information, contact Coach Healy at 860-646-0444.

SW Resident To Play Softball At Tufts

benefited both school’s hockey program. Rockville won the game, 6-5.

To submit an item for the TSD Local Digest please email us at: storyideas@ thesportsdept.com or call 860-872-0TSD (0873).

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TheCollege SportsNotebook Department

February 1-14, 2011

15

Tolland Grad Putting Together Solid Season At Merrimack Compiled by Reid L. Walmark The Sports Department Kelly Schatzlein, a 2009 graduate of Tolland High School, is leading the Merrimack College women’s basketball team (8-9) in scoring and rebounding. The 6-foot-1 inch sophomore forward is averaging 13.3 points per game and 7.2 rebounds per game.

She has been the Warriors’ team-high rebounder in seven games and the team-high scorer seven times. Schatzlein is averaging 27.4 minutes per game, fifth most on the team.

Her season high in scoring was a 20point effort in a 62-57 home win over St. Anselm on Jan. 2. Schatzlein, who has started all 17 games, grabbed a season-

high 11 rebounds in a 64-55 win at Southern Connecticut on Jan. 25.

Schatzlein, a CIAC Class M All-State player in 2007-08 and 200809, is the leading shooter from floor among teammates averaging more than six minutes SCHATZLEIN of playing time per game.

She is 97 of 196 for 49.5 percent. She has the second most defensive rebounds on Merrimack but leads in offensive and total rebounds.

Schatzlein ranks third in assists (32) and fifth in steals (9). She is the Warriors’ leading shot blocker with 25. She was named

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to the all-rookie team last year by the Northeast-10 Conference. Schatzlein was named Freshman of The Week once during 2009-10, in which she paced Merrimack in rebounds per game (7.6) and blocked shots as well as earning three double-doubles.

“The coaches have asked me to step up more as a sophomore,” Schatzlein said.

“They told me not to be afraid to take the ball to the basket more than I did as a freshman.”

One of Schatzlein’s high school rivals, Emily Savino of Ellington, is leading her college team in scoring, too. Savino, a 2009 Ellington High graduate, is averaging 12.4 points per game for Western New England College (10-6), the only Golden Bears’ player to average in double figures. Savino, a sophomore guard, has played in all 16 games, having been a starter in 13 of them.

Savino is third in field goal percentage for WNEC (44.1), No. 1 in three-point fieldgoal percentage (40.5) among players with a meaningful number of attempts, tied for second in rebounding (4.43 rpg), third in assists (26) and second in steals (21). …

Kelsey Daniels, a 2010 graduate of South Windsor High, is a freshman forward/guard who has played in seven games for WNEC, averaging 6.9 minutes.

Sophomore Samantha Schoeneberger, a graduate of Rockville High School, is a forward on the Connecticut College women’s ice hockey team. She has two goals for the Camels (8-8) in 16 games this season. In 41 career games, she has five goals and four assists for nine points.

Schoeneberger scored a goal in a 2-1

loss at Trinity on Nov. 28 and in a 4-3 win over Bowdoin College on Jan. 16.

Freshman Chelsea Alves is a transfer guard for St. Joseph College in West Hartford, after attending UMass in 2009-10.

She was an academic All-State player in 2008-09 when she was a captain at Ellington High.

Alves has played in 15 of 16 games and has been the Blue Jays’ team-high scorer twice, both off the bench. She scored 17 points in a 74-46 win at Mitchell College on Dec. 2 and she was one of three players with 12 points in a 78-40 win over Albertus Magnus on Jan. 15. Alves is averaging 5.5 ppg, sixth best on St. Joseph (11-5). She is ninth in minutes played.

She is shooting 41.3 percent from the floor, fifth most accurate among Blue Jays with more than 10 shots attempted. Alves is fourth in three-point field-goal percentage at 30.0 and ranks third in foul shooting at 64.3 percent. She is sixth in assists, tied for sixth in rebounding, seventh in steals and tied for third in blocked shots.

University of Rhode Island junior Cheslea Jubrey, a 2008 graduate of Rockville, placed second in the 200-meter dash in a time of 26.89 and in the 55-meter dash (7.37 seconds) at the URI Sorlien Memorial Invitational on Jan. 14. On Jan. 22 at the URI Invitational, Jubrey finished third in the 55 in 7.38 and placed fifth in the 200 in 26.58.

Freshman Marcos Rodriguez, a 2010 graduate of Tolland, recorded a time of 2:01.74 in the 800 at the Sorlien Invitational on Jan. 15 for the URI men’s team.

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The Sports Department Vernon

February 1-14, 2011

Joshua Gluz gets in position to take down a Wethersfield wrestler. Photo

by Sherrene Wells, The Sports Department, www. wellsphotogallery.com

Michael Faniel goes for a floater in the lane over the Fermi defender. Rockville won the game, 64-60. Photo by Steve Palmer, The Sports Department, www. stevepalmerphotography.com

Rockville’s Kurt Annelli tries to box out Ellington’s Troy Russell during a recent game. Photo by Andre Dumais, The Sports Department, www. imagingbyandre.com

Senior Melissa McCann is thinking inside the box as she gets great position for a rebound.

Photo by Andre Dumais, The Sports Department, www.imagingbyandre.com

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The Sports Department

February 1-14, 2011

17

Area High School Sports โ Upcoming Schedule for February Boys Basketball

โ ข Feb. 1 Bloomfield at Rockville, 7 p.m. โ ข Tolland at Fermi, 7 p.m. โ ข Canton at Stafford, 7 p.m.

Enfield at Somers, 7 p.m. โ ข Suffield at East Windsor, 7 p.m. โ ข Feb. 3 Rockville at Bloomfield, 7 p.m. โ ข South Windsor at Manchester, 7 p.m. โ ข Fermi at Hartford Public, 7 p.m. โ ข RHAM at Tolland, 7 p.m. โ ข Somers at Montville, 7 p.m. โ ข Feb. 4 Stafford at East Windsor, 7 p.m. โ ข Ellington at Enfield, 7 p.m. โ ข Feb. 5 Hartford Public at Fermi, 12:30 p.m. โ ข Tolland at RHAM, 5 p.m. โ ข Feb. 7 Weaver at South Windsor, 7 p.m. โ ข Tolland at Rockville, 7 p.m. โ ข Fermi at Bloomfield, 7 p.m. โ ข Feb. 8 Granby at Ellington, 7 p.m. โ ข South Windsor at Avon, 7 p.m. โ ข Coventry at Stafford, 7 p.m. โ ข Somers at Windsor Locks, 7 p.m.

East Windsor at Canton, 7 p.m. โ ข Suffield at Enfield, 7 p.m. โ ข Feb. 10 Ellington at SMSA, 7 p.m. โ ข Tolland at Bloomfield, 7 p.m. โ ข RHAM at Rockville, 7 p.m. โ ข Portland at Somers, 7 p.m. โ ข Fermi at Rocky Hill, 7 p.m. โ ข Feb. 11 Windsor Locks at Ellington, 7 p.m. โ ข Wethersfield at South Windsor, 7 p.m. โ ข Stafford at Bolton, 7 p.m. โ ข Canton at

Somers, 7 p.m. โ ข East Windsor at East Granby, 7 p.m. โ ข Enfield at Coventry, 7 p.m. โ ข Feb. 12 RHAM at Fermi, 5 p.m. โ ข Feb. 14 East Windsor at Parish Hill, 7 p.m. โ ข Feb. 15 Avon at Ellington, 7 p.m. โ ข South Windsor at East Catholic, 7 p.m. โ ข Rocky Hill at Tolland, 7 p.m. โ ข Rockville at Hartford Public, 7 p.m. โ ข Somers at Stafford, 7 p.m. โ ข Bolton at East Windsor, 7 p.m. โ ข E.O. Smith at Fermi, 7 p.m. โ ข Enfield at Granby, 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball

โ ข Feb. 1 Fermi at Tolland, 7 p.m. โ ข Rockville at Bloomfield, 7 p.m. โ ข Stafford at Canton, 7 p.m. โ ข Somers at Enfield, 7 p.m. โ ข East Windsor at Suffield, 6:30 p.m. โ ข Feb. 2 South Windsor at East Catholic, 7 p.m. โ ข Feb. 3 Coventry at Ellington, 7 p.m. โ ข Tolland at RHAM, 7 p.m. โ ข Bloomfield at Rockville, 7 p.m. โ ข Manchester at South Windsor, 7 p.m. โ ข Somers at Wilcox Tech, 7 p.m. โ ข Hartford Public at Fermi, 5:30 p.m. โ ข Feb. 4 Enfield at Ellington, 7 p.m. โ ข East Windsor at Stafford, 7 p.m. โ ข Feb. 5 RHAM at Tolland, 5 p.m. โ ข Fermi at Hart-

Don McGowan Executive Vice President dmcgowan@bbhartford.com

ford Public, 12:30 p.m. โ ข Feb. 7 Rockville at Tolland, 7 p.m. โ ข South Windsor at Weaver, 7 p.m. โ ข Bloomfield at Fermi, 7 p.m. โ ข Feb. 8 Ellington at Granby, 7 p.m. โ ข Rockville at Fermi, 7 p.m. โ ข Stafford at Coventry, 7 p.m.

Windsor Locks at Somers, 7 p.m. โ ข Canton at East Windsor, 7 p.m. โ ข Ellington at Suffield., 7 p.m. โ ข Feb. 10 Rockville at RHAM, 7 p.m. โ ข South Windsor at Wethersfield, 7 p.m. โ ข Rocky Hill at Fermi, 7 p.m. โ ข Feb. 11 Ellington at Windsor Locks, 7 p.m. โ ข Bloomfield at Tolland, 7 p.m. โ ข Bolton at Stafford, 7 p.m. โ ข Somers at Canton, 7 p.m.

East Granby at East Windsor, 7 p.m.

Coventry at Enfield, 7 p.m. โ ข Feb. 12 Coventry at East Windsor, 5:30 p.m. * Fermi at RHAM, 7 p.m. โ ข Feb. 14 Tolland at E.O. Smith, 7 p.m. * Fermi at Rockville, 7 p.m.

East Hartford at South Windsor, 7 p.m. โ ข Feb. 15 Ellington at Rockville, 7 p.m. โ ข Stafford at Somers, 7 p.m. โ ข East Windsor at Bolton, 7 p.m. โ ข Granby at Enfield, 7 p.m.

Hockey

See More High School Schedules at www. thesportsdept.com

โ ข Feb. 1 Fermi at Amity, 5 p.m.

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โ ข Feb. 2 South Windsor at Tri-Town, 4 p.m. โ ข Wethersfield at Rockville-ManchesterStafford, 4 p.m. โ ข Feb. 4 Enfield at Housatonic-Northwestern, 8:15 p.m. โ ข Feb. 5 Tri-Town at Fermi, 2:40 p.m. (Enfield Twin Rinks) * Windsor-East Granby-Avon at Enfield, 7 p.m. * Rockville-ManchesterStafford at Sheehan, 1 p.m. โ ข Feb. 9 Tri-Town at ND-West Haven, 4 p.m. โ ข Fermi at Simsbury, 5:45 p.m. โ ข Enfield at Stamford, 6 p.m. โ ข South Windsor at West Haven, 6:30 p.m. โ ข Rockville-Manchester-Stafford at Northwest Catholic, 8 p.m. โ ข Feb. 10 Fitch-East LymeLedyard at RockvilleManchester-Stafford, 4 p.m. โ ข Feb. 12 West Haven at Fermi, 1:30 p.m. โ ข Conard at Tri-Town, 3:40 p.m. โ ข Hamden at South Windsor, 5 p.m. โ ข Rockville-Manchester-Stafford at East Catholic, 8 p.m. โ ข Hand at Enfield, 8:10 p.m. โ ข Feb. 14 North Haven at Tri-Town, 6:20 p.m. โ ข Feb. 15 Fermi at Wethersfield (Trinity College), 8:30 p.m.

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Health & Department Wellness The Sports

18

The Sixth Sense: A Balanced Approach for Return to Sports

By Julie Paolino PT, MS, ATC, MCTA The Sports Department Do you have a sixth sense? Proprioception, often compared to balance, is really an elaborate sequence of conscious and subconscious activity within the body that helps create stability and balance to help you run, jump, throw, and kick. Muscles, tendons and ligaments contain sensors that make decisions during sports that tell you to move your arm to catch your balance.

These sensors tell your body where it is and what position is needed in relation to objects, opponents, and obstacles.

Given that the majority of sports injuries in the adolescent athlete affect the muscles, tendons, and/or ligaments, then you might see how these sensors can be interrupted. While regaining range of motion are important in rehabilitation for the athlete, be careful not to overlook proprioceptive training.

your risk of injury, these exercises can improve your performance on the court, mat, ice, or track this winter.

Lower Body?

• Dips – Stand on one foot, bend through the hip and reach down to touch the floor without bending the knee, then stand back up without touching the other foot to the floor.

• Reach – Stand on one foot, bend the knee and slowly reach out in front of you with the other foot as you drop into a shallow squat, then return to starting position without touching the floor.

When you sprain your ankle, the tendons Upper Body? and • Walkouts – Lie face down on ligaments a ball and see how far out you can walk onto your hands. This lose their gives you a chance to work the and those proprioceptors. sense of core • Plank Up Downs – Begin in a position ... plank position from the forearms.

Learn, Be Challenged, Improve If you’ve ever had to rehab after a sports injury, then you may have noticed that balance exercises are harder to do on your injured side. When you sprain your ankle, the tendons and ligaments lose their sense of position so you find it harder to balance whether its’ the arms or the legs. Whether rehabbing from an injury or to help reduce

Push yourself up into a push up position then back down to plank.

There are a number of training/balance aids that we use in the clinic for the advanced stages of rehab for the athlete.

Using these aids can increase the challenge, but can be risky to perform on your own in the early stages of injury. Be sure to consult your PT or ATC before progressing your rehab.

February 1-14, 2011

The Sports Health & Department Wellness

February 1-14, 2011

19

Keep Safety Up Front In Backyard Sports We’d be mighty unhappy if our kids came home from school athletics with broken bones, sprains, or other injuries. But we think there’s not much that can happen when kids are playing on the soft grass at home.

Not so.

Plenty of things can happen, to adults as well as children. Prevention is the key, and you should be mindful of that whenever a sporting activity takes over your backyard. • Basketball: Pad the post that supports

the basket so energetic players aren’t hurt when they slam into it. Are you playing on a concrete slab? Be sure the grass is level with it so players (including you) don’t step off of it and suffer a sprained or broken ankle. Save yourself from a strained muscle by warming up and stretching before a game. • Touch football: Be sure it’s “touchâ€? football. Tackle football without proper equipment can lead to all kinds of injuries. Both kids and adults

should warm up before playing. Be sure not to over reach and strain a muscle.

And don’t play to the point of exhaustion. More injuries occur when people are tired. • Baseball and softball: Use a softer ball for young players. Batters should always wear helmets. Use breakaway bases to reduce ankle and knee injuries.

Tell players not to slide head first.

Have the “on deck� hitter stay far away so he won’t be hit

by foul balls or a thrown bat. • Volleyball: Tell them to avoid awkward movements that can cause strained muscles.

Show players the proper way to serve and return to avoid jammed fingers and thumbs. Have them protect their faces and heads with their hand when returning a ball. Warm-up is important. ~ Staff Reports

The Sports Department is now on Facebook!

That’s right, now you can stay on top of breaking news and updates from the local sports scene right through your Facebook account. Readers can also submit story ideas, upload photos and video and link to our website at www.thesportsdept.com. Join our online team at www. facebook.com/thesportsdepartment today!

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