After dry spells contributed to wildfires in northern Minnesota, we now have the opposite problem: a days-long deluge. As Bring Me The News reports, some parts of the state will see up to five inches of rain. “[C]onsistent rain will move slowly east Friday morning, continuing on and off through the weekend and into early […]
After dry spells contributed to wildfires in northern Minnesota, we now have the opposite problem: a days-long deluge. As Bring Me The News reports, some parts of the state will see up to five inches of rain. “[C]onsistent rain will move slowly east Friday morning, continuing on and off through the weekend and into early next week, with central Minnesota and the Twin Cities potentially seeing the largest amounts.”
Rain or shine, dozens of No Kings protests are planned throughout Minnesota on Saturday. The largest event will be at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul, and FOX 9 has put together a list of protests and start times across the state.
One of the great aspects of Minnesota summers is the plethora of outdoor youth sports. But cordiality isn’t always the name of the game. As MPR News reports, “there’s a troubling trend within youth sports of coaches, referees and other game officials saying they’re facing more pressure, harsh criticism and conflict than ever before, and much of it is coming from parents.”
If you prefer to be entertained from your digital device, The Hill reports that “Minnesota lawmakers have approved a measure requiring social media platforms to display a warning label, cautioning about the negative impacts of its use on mental health.”
Finally today, Racket shares their Freeloader Friday, with 124 free things to do this weekend. Spend some time out and about if you can!
Summer is here, and so is the softball camp season. It’s the perfect time to sign up for a camp to hone your softball skills, whether that be at the plate, in the circle, or your favorite position on the diamond. Oklahoma offers plenty of camp opportunities catering to players of various skill levels and […]
Summer is here, and so is the softball camp season. It’s the perfect time to sign up for a camp to hone your softball skills, whether that be at the plate, in the circle, or your favorite position on the diamond.
Oklahoma offers plenty of camp opportunities catering to players of various skill levels and ages, ranging from high-level prospect camps to youth-focused skill development programs. There’s even a chance to learn from some of softball’s best players, like Jocelyn Alo.
Hosted by the professional softball team, the Oklahoma City Spark, learn from one of the best hitters in the league, Jocelyn Alo. The two-time OU National Champion and USA Player of the Year, and NCAA all-time home run leader, will lead athletes to what it takes to be great at the plate.
August 9, All ages, 9-11 a.m.
Led by the current Oklahoma State softball players, this camp is a great opportunity to perfect your fundamentals and get a sneak peek at what it’s like to be a college athlete.
July 28- August 1, Ages 6-10, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Led by the Golden Hurricane staff, this camp is an opportunity to learn pitching, hitting, and all-around defensive skills from a D1 program.
Pitching Clinic- July 11, Ages 8-12 grade, 6 p.m.
Hitting Under the Lights- July 11, Ages 8-12 grade, 7-8:30 p.m.
With several college coaches from across big-name schools coming together, like OSU, Tulsa, New Mexico State, MACU, and more, this camp is designed for high school players who want to become college players and learn more about the recruiting process.
$19m for incomplete work at Youth Camp | Local News
Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs Phillip Watts says an investigation will be launched into the incomplete works at the Chatham Youth Camp in Point Fortin. He said despite the contractor receiving the total payment of $19 million the project remained about 70% completed. Watts said this on Saturday while touring the facility. He was […]
Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs Phillip Watts says an investigation will be launched into the incomplete works at the Chatham Youth Camp in Point Fortin.
He said despite the contractor receiving the total payment of $19 million the project remained about 70% completed.
Watts said this on Saturday while touring the facility.
He was accompanied by Member of Parliament for Point Fortin and Minister in the Energy Ministry Ernesto Kesar.
The construction and refurbishment of the facility was started in 2022 under then-minister of Youth Development and National Service Foster Cummings.
Under the management of the National Maintenance Training and Security Company Ltd (MTS), works were expected to cost $28 million and scheduled to be completed in ten months.
The work would have included construction of a new dormitory to house 125 candidates, a sick bay and laundromat, and there would also be an upgrade of all the structures on the compound, including the security booth, administration buildings and staff compound, including mechanical, electrical and plumbing renovations.
However, Watts stated that the project, which has been halted for over a year, was “nowhere close to completion”.
“This is one of the youth camps we would have spent to date, $19 million…What I’m seeing here, and what I’ve spoken about in the Parliament in the debate, is that the contractors here received almost 100% payment and what we are seeing here – you all are witnessing here – this project is nowhere close to completion,” he said.
This, he said, would be investigated.
“The actual works completed against the works that were paid for is out of proportion, it is out of line. The works are at about 70% completion, and we would have paid out 100% on the project. These are things we need to delve down into and investigate now. I am yet to understand why this project stopped because I don’t think we have any monies owing the contractor,” he stated.
He added that while most of the buildings on the compound were existing buildings which were renovated, there was a $10 million variation to the project.
“Now I’m hearing that there is a ten-million dollar variation to this project and we need to understand why and how it came about. We need to sit with the contractor, sit with the project team, and do a full audit of the project, do a full scope, because I’m looking at the bill of quantities in my hand and we don’t have a full breakdown for every single block to see what were the measured works on every single block. We need to do a full audit of this project,” he continued.
He said following the mandate of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, there was an emphasis to open such facilities as soon as possible to enrol students.
Kesar added that the Chatham Youth Camp was instrumental in providing a competent labour force for Point Fortin.
“This has been a critical youth development facility in the constituency of Point Fortin for well over 50 years. This particular centre would have been integral in developing young people in technical and vocational areas…It was a fulcrum for a lot of development with youths who had trouble with the law, and it would have turned out hundreds, possibility thousands of young people who would have gone on to as captains in the industry, worked in the oil and gas field, worked in Government services, some of them military and even in the police force,” Kesar said.
However, he said the facility has not been functioning at its full capacity for ten years.
“We want to see this facility as one of the centres that can assist our young people who are having problems in the school system and in terms of the violence to have them assigned here. I want to make sure that the young people who follow the campaign, they have options,” he continued.
Responding to questions from reporters, Watts stated that there were no firings at his ministry.
“Since I am at this particular ministry, we fired no one. What happened, we had persons whose contract came to an end and it wasn’t renewed. We fired no one,” he said.
Age Group Legends Endure and Youth A, B, Junior Titles Awarded
July 7, 2025 XONRUPT-LONGEMER (July 7, 2025) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – The 18th edition of XTERRA France brought more than 2,000 athletes from over 20 nations to the Vosges mountains for a weekend of world-class off-road racing on July 5–6, 2025. Backed by nearly 6,000 spectators, nine events, and a €15,000 Elite prize purse, XTERRA France […]
XONRUPT-LONGEMER (July 7, 2025) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – The 18th edition of XTERRA France brought more than 2,000 athletes from over 20 nations to the Vosges mountains for a weekend of world-class off-road racing on July 5–6, 2025. Backed by nearly 6,000 spectators, nine events, and a €15,000 Elite prize purse, XTERRA France once again affirmed its reputation as one of the premier stops on the XTERRA World Tour.
In Sunday’s Full Distance Triathlon, Marta Menditto (ITA) and Nicolas Duré (FRA) captured the Elite titles, mastering a 1.5K swim, 40K mountain bike, and 10K trail run through steep, technical forest terrain in crisp mountain air. Menditto claimed her second XTERRA France win in 3:38:13 with the fastest bike split among the women, holding off Carina Wasle (AUT) and Emma Ducreux (FRA). Duré delivered a decisive run to finish in 3:02:19, ahead of Maxim Chané (FRA) and Sébastien Carabin (BEL).
Full Results Here
The age group field brought its own energy, as Paula Leupold (DEU, 20–24) finished eighth overall — ahead of several elites — to lead all women outside the pro ranks in 4:02:08. Guillaume Desette (FRA, 30–34) topped the men’s age group field in 3:19:39. Raymond Ferry (FRA), reigning World and European Champion in the 65–69 division, continued his dominance with another win, while Josie Sinclair (NZL) extended her undefeated season in the same age group.
The XTERRA Youth Tour added another layer of excitement, as young athletes battled for coveted slots to the 2025 XTERRA Youth World Championship in Italy. In Youth A (14–15), Gabriel Priez (FRA) and reigning Youth World Champion Apolline Ramboux (BEL) led their divisions, with Amaury Lavoignet (FRA), Silvio Charbonnier (FRA), Emie Vandenbussche (FRA), and Charlotte Binsinger (FRA) filling the podiums. Ewan Sandot (FRA) and Maxine Puech (FRA) won the Youth B (16–17) categories, while Julian Anguera (FRA) and Agathe Claude (FRA) claimed victories in the Junior (18–19) races.
Since its debut in 2006, XTERRA France has evolved into one of the sport’s signature events, known for its history, technical course, and vibrant atmosphere. Mayor Michel Bertrand praised the collective effort that makes the event possible, noting, “The success of this event is the result of the energy of the volunteers and the passion of the people who bring it to life.”
With support from the Commune de Xonrupt-Longemer, Région Grand Est, Je Vois la Vie en Vosges, and countless volunteers, the weekend served as a celebration of community, history, and shared adventure — proving once again why XTERRA France remains one of the most iconic gatherings in off-road triathlon.
Born on the Hawaiian shores of Maui in 1996, XTERRA has grown into a global outdoor lifestyle brand rooted in exploration, community, and care for the natural world. With deep roots in off-road racing, XTERRA now inspires connection through events, storytelling, and apparel built to move through nature. From local gatherings to world-class events, XTERRA is a way of life shaped by the land beneath our feet and the stories we share along the way.
Plasch shares ‘love of the game’ in Tigers basketball camp debut – Superior Telegram
MAPLE — Tieryn Plasch stood before nearly two-dozen utterly captivated kindergarten through second grade athletes and pointed to a banner hanging in the rafters. It was July 2, the penultimate day of her inaugural summer basketball camp. Throughout the week, Plasch, a 2023 graduate and the program’s all-time leading scorer, taught fundamentals and instilled a […]
MAPLE — Tieryn Plasch stood before nearly two-dozen utterly captivated kindergarten through second grade athletes and pointed to a banner hanging in the rafters.
It was July 2, the penultimate day of her inaugural summer basketball camp. Throughout the week, Plasch, a 2023 graduate and the program’s all-time leading scorer, taught fundamentals and instilled a love for the game, but she reminded the kids of something else as well.
“I point up at the conference championships banner all the time,” Plasch said. “We only have a couple of those, and our goal is to add to that.”
Tieryn Plasch, former Northwestern Tiger and current Bemidji State University guard, works with campers on dribbling at her basketball camp at Northwestern High School in Maple on Tuesday, July 2.
Jed Carlson / Duluth Media Group
Perhaps no player in program history is more qualified to teach the next generation than Plasch. During her tenure, she guided the Tigers to a pair of regional championships and the program’s second Heart O’North Conference title to that point.
She forged an impeccable legacy that included being a three-time all-state honorable mention and one of the most effective leaders in Northwestern history, according to Tigers head coach Paul Eberhardt.
“I’ve coached for over 20 years and she’s easily the best leader I’ve ever had,” Eberhardt said. “When that person comes back to your school and wants to give back and be part of what’s going on, we’re super lucky, because that’s not something everyone wants.”
Aubree Hipsher, 7, center, shoots over Haidyn Alexson, 6, during a drill as Tieryn Plasch, former Northwestern Tiger and current Bemidji State University guard, watches closely during her basketball camp at Northwestern High School in Maple on July 2.
Jed Carlson / Duluth Media Group
Plasch, who just finished her sophomore year with Division II Bemidji State University, helped coach skill-specific drills and workouts during Tigers camps in previous years but organizing her own wasn’t something she initially considered.
That changed when Plasch spoke with fellow Beavers teammates who were raving about the opportunity to go back to their respective hometowns and work with young athletes. It was a lightbulb moment, one that inspired Plasch’s inaugural girls and boys summer camp.
“I talked to Eberhardt and was like, ‘Is there any way I can do a camp for you guys?’ Plasch recalled. “He said yes, and I’m just happy because Northwestern doesn’t have many camps for girls. I’m really happy to be back here doing this for these kids.”
Ryder Fouts, 6, right, looks to score over Aubree Hipsher, 7, during a drill at Tieryn Plasch’s basketball camp at Northwestern High School in Maple on Tuesday, July 2.
Jed Carlson / Duluth Media Group
Plasch’s camp ran from June 30 to July 3 and served roughly 50 kids across three daily sessions that each lasted 90 minutes and included players of various ages and skills.
Part of that meant learning to coach different ages on the fly, whether that was more advanced sixth through eighth graders in the morning, kindergarteners through second graders learning the basics in the afternoon or the third through fifth graders in the middle session.
“I love being here,” Plasch said. “When I was younger, I looked up to the older girls so much and the ones who played in college like Katie Lundeen. I really looked up to them, so to be able to come back and have these little kids look up to me, it’s special.”
Tieryn Plasch, former Northwestern Tiger and current Bemidji State University guard, celebrates with Haidyn Alexson, 6, left, after she made a basket at her basketball camp at Northwestern High School in Maple on Tuesday afternoon, July 2.
Jed Carlson / Duluth Media Group
Parents smiled in joy as they watched Plasch move little arms and feet into proper position, whether it was pivoting in triple threat or playing fundamentally sound defense.
It was an opportunity for their children to learn from one of the most distinguished players in program history. For Jason Klobucher, father of three children, one in each session, that’s all he could have asked for.
“It’s great for my kids,” Klobucher said. “They get to learn skills and play with their friends. It’s a great opportunity. This is their first real experience with somebody other than their parents telling them to dribble while playing basketball in the backyard.”
Macyn Klobucher, 7, grabs her rebound during a relay race at the basketball camp hosted by Tieryn Plasch at Northwestern High School in Maple on Tuesday, July 2.
Jed Carlson / Duluth Media Group
Klobucher’s daughter, Macyn, 7, will be a second grader this fall. She loved the afternoon session with Plasch so much that she constantly asked her father when they could go back and play again.
“They’re having fun and always ask about coming back,” Klobucher said. “All three of them get up in the morning and want to come here and play, and that’s about all you can ask. It gives them something to do in the summer instead of just sitting at home.”
Macyn Klobucher, 7, left, listens to Tieryn Plasch, former Northwestern Tiger and current Bemidji State University guard, explain how to protect the ball while jump-stopping during the basketball camp Plasch was hosting at Northwestern High School in Maple on Tuesday, July 2.
Jed Carlson / Duluth Media Group
Eberhardt has known Plasch for a long time, so he had full faith and confidence that she would take care of the next generation of Tigers. He said one of the most important parts of youth sports is teaching a love of the game, and Plasch does that perfectly.
“I can see her growth and maturity after playing a couple of years of college basketball,” Eberhardt said. “But she’s still the little girl who fell in love with the game, and now she wants all the other little girls to fall in love with it just like she did. That’s the best part, her love of the game.”
Parker Buckmaster looks up as Tieryn Plasch plays defense on him at her basketball camp at Northwestern High School.
Jed Carlson / Duluth Media Group
Plasch is the face of the camp, but she didn’t do it entirely alone. Her older sister, Tayva, and mother, Kryssi, were instrumental in making it run smoothly. They were also joined by one of Plasch’s Bemidji State teammates along with former Tiger Gabby Risley.
Campers and coaches yell “Shot” as the ball goes in the air during Tieryn Plasch’s basketball camp at Northwestern High School.
Jed Carlson / Duluth Media Group
This fall, Plasch will return to Bemidji State for her junior campaign but hopes to be back in Maple next summer to continue coaching the future players of Northwestern’s basketball program.
“I just love coaching the kids,” Plasch said. “It’s been really fun, and I’m really happy with all the people who came. We’re hoping to make it a yearly thing, because I really love being here.”
Reagan Hoverman joined the Duluth News Tribune as a sports reporter in July 2023 after spending the better part of two years covering a variety of prep and collegiate sports at the Pierce County Journal in Ellsworth, Wis. Before that, he was a news and sports reporter at the Inter-County Leader in Frederic, Wis.
Summer is here, and so is the softball camp season. It’s the perfect time to sign up for a camp to hone your softball skills, whether that be at the plate, in the circle, or your favorite position on the diamond. Oregon offers plenty of camp opportunities catering to players of various skill levels and […]
Summer is here, and so is the softball camp season. It’s the perfect time to sign up for a camp to hone your softball skills, whether that be at the plate, in the circle, or your favorite position on the diamond.
Oregon offers plenty of camp opportunities catering to players of various skill levels and ages, ranging from high-level prospect camps to youth-focused skill development programs. There’s even a chance to learn from some of college softball’s best, like Melyssa Lombardi and her Oregon Ducks.
Join the Oregon coaching staff for instruction on defense, hitting, pitching, and catching. There is an opportunity to play in live games where players can compete in a fun and competitive environment.
Summer Camp- August 5-7, Ages 4th grade-college freshman
Elite Camp- August 8-9, Ages 8th-college freshman
Open to players of all levels, this camp offers the opportunity to train under the direction of experienced coaches from renowned institutions in a competitive environment.
General Skills- August 3-7, Ages 8-17, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
General Skills (Overnight)- August 3-7, Ages 10-17
Led by Portland State’s head coach, Meadow McWhorter and her staff, players will improve their skill sets and walk away with new lessons that can be utilized on and off the field.
Beginning Skills- July 14-17, Ages 8-17, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Pitching- July 18, Ages 6-17, 9-11:30 a.m.
Catching- July 18, Ages 6-17, 9-11:30 a.m.
Lewis and Clark’s staff hosts various camps that will teach a solid foundation of fundamentals, allowing athletes to be exposed to the highest level of softball.
Pitching Camp- July 10, Ages high school-JUCO level, 2-3:30 p.m.
Catching Camp- July 10, Ages high school-JUCO level, 2-3:30 p.m.
Pio Pup Camp- July 21, Ages 3-8 grade, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Propsect Camp- July 21, Ages high school-JUCO level, 10 a.m.-1 p.m
Hudson Roth has played competitive soccer for years and wonders if people have lost sight of what youth sports should be about. I’m heading into my sophomore year of high school playing competitive soccer 8 hours a week. While I still love the game and have been playing since I was very young, I’ve noticed […]
Hudson Roth has played competitive soccer for years and wonders if people have lost sight of what youth sports should be about.
I’m heading into my sophomore year of high school playing competitive soccer 8 hours a week. While I still love the game and have been playing since I was very young, I’ve noticed a pattern that’s hard to ignore: more and more kids are quitting sports. Many of these kids started playing early, like most of us do — in recreation leagues, weekend tournaments and eventually club teams. But by the time they hit middle school, many are already burned out. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 70 percent of kids drop out of organized sports by the age of 13.
While some are burned out from playing 6 days a week, others feel constant pressure to be the best, to win and to specialize in one sport before they even hit puberty. And then there’s the cost. Some sports — especially for club teams — can cost thousands of dollars a year.
For many families, that’s just not possible. And even for those who can afford it, it raises a hard question: should playing a sport you love cost that much? What’s frustrating is that we know sports can be really good for kids. They teach teamwork, discipline and resilience. But when it stops being fun, kids stop showing up.
Let kids play with their friends. Let them try different sports. Give them time off. If we focused more on effort, progress and fun — and less on winning — I think more kids would stick with it. I think we’ve lost sight of what youth sports should be about. Not rankings or college scholarships, but growth and joy. Because if 13-year-olds are already quitting something they used to love, maybe the problem isn’t them. Maybe it’s us. With a Perspective, I’m Hudson Roth.