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An Action-Packed Day Two Ends Pool Play With The Semifinals Set For Play

Friday morning at Thomas Brooks Park in Cary, North Carolina, was marked by fast action and fierce competition among teams battling to advance to the 10U Futures Invitational Semifinals. Wrapping up pool play with an 8-game slate saw teams grinding till the last out, eager to compete in bracket play tomorrow. Catch up on all […]

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Friday morning at Thomas Brooks Park in Cary, North Carolina, was marked by fast action and fierce competition among teams battling to advance to the 10U Futures Invitational Semifinals. Wrapping up pool play with an 8-game slate saw teams grinding till the last out, eager to compete in bracket play tomorrow. Catch up on all the action from Friday’s games at the 10U Futures Invitational.

Knights Knation 13, Top Tier 2

Totaling an impressive 14-hit performance, Knights Knation ran away early on with a seven-run first inning. Solidifying their performance with some stellar pitching, starter Jaxon Leist worked four scoreless innings, surrendering only one hit while punching out five. The offense was stacked all around with five different players each having multi-hit games, led by Hunter Hamrick going 3-for-3 with two extra-base hits, including a two-RBI triple. Roberto Gutierrez led the team in RBIs with three, leading Knights Knation to an impressive win and a spot in the semifinals.

Original Florida Pokers of Parkland 10, ZT Prospects National 9

In what ultimately felt like the game of the day at Thomas Brooks Park, the Original Florida Pokers of Parkland worked a seven-run third inning, taking the momentum in loud fashion. With two outs in the top of the fourth, the Pokers stole home in a tied ball game, sending Jonathan Pierre home, where he was called safe to take the lead. Pierre also would have a big day at the plate, recording two triples as well as scoring the game-winning run. Tied for the team lead in RBIs, Cannon Allen went 2-for-3, picking up two stolen bases; also pitching two shutout innings, allowing no hits to secure the Pokers the win and a spot in the semifinals.

Scottsdale Dirtbags 5, Vault Boys National 2

In a game that needed extra innings to find a winner, the Scottsdale Dirtbags scratched across three runs during the top of the seventh, securing a win. Getting a great outing from their starting pitcher Noah Kirk, who worked five innings of two-run baseball with three strikeouts, handed the ball off to Ahdan Ontiveros. Pitching the rest of the game for the Dirtbags, Ontiveros went two innings of no-hit and no-run baseball that secured the Dirtbags the win. Driving in two of the three runs in the seventh, Mathias Solis hammered a bases-clearing triple down the left field line, his second hit of the game. Everett Van Bogaert drove home the final run of the game with an RBI groundout, and a scoreless frame from Ontiveros closed out the 5-2 win, securing the Dirtbags a semifinals berth.

TBT Ballers SoCal 10, West Raleigh 2

With a complete game performance from their starting pitcher, TBT Ballers SoCal executed when it mattered, picking up a 10-2 win. Leading the team in RBIs, Mattix Edwards went 1-for-4, scoring two runs from his first-inning triple to get things started. Luke Erickson was dominant on the mound, going a complete game of two-run ball for TBT Ballers SoCal. Multi-hit games from Jayden Agee and Mason Giffis helped lead the team to a 10-run performance on 10 total hits from the offense. With the win today, the TBT Ballers SoCal secured their spot in the semifinals.

Memphis Tigers 12, Perfect Performance Outlaws 5

After being outhit 11 to six, the Memphis Tigers were able to put up 12 runs and outlast the Perfect Performance Outlaws. Titus Watson led the Tigers with a big day at the plate, going 2-for-3 with three RBIs and two stolen bases. The Perfect Performance Outlaws fought hard to stay in the game, led by Max Krevit’s 2-for-3 day at the plate, picking up two RBIs. Ultimately, the Tigers bullpen got the job done with a combined two innings of work from Grayson Stephney and Beckham Natola; the bullpen only gave up one run and maintained the lead.

DG29 Baseball Academy 6, New Level National 0

Carried by a 5.2 inning performance from starter Samir Galindo, DG29 Baseball Academy was able to shut out New Level National. Galdino, while only giving up one hit on the day, was also able to rack up five strikeouts in his impressive performance. Going 2-for-3 at the plate and picking up an RBI triple, Byron O. found his groove at the plate as one of two players picking up two hits today. Being able to spread out production was critical as five of the six runs scored were driven in by five different players, securing the 6-0 victory for DG29 Baseball Academy.

Tennessee Elite 8, Ghost National 4

Outscoring Ghost National 7-0 in the first two innings of the game, Tennessee Elite coasted their way to an 8-4 win. Logan A. picked up the final two RBIs of the first inning, hitting an inside-the-park home run that gave them an early 4-0 lead. Keeping the lead on the mound was starter Aiden F., going 3.2 innings, giving up one hit and one earned run with a pair of strikeouts. Finishing the game for Tennessee Elite, going 2.1 innings, Hudson Y. recorded five of his seven outs with strikeouts. That didn’t stop Ghost National from fighting back. Putting up a three-run fifth inning led by Robbie Cerciello’s two-RBI single. Tennessee Elite held strong and closed out the game with a flyout to right field.

Stacked Baseball 13, Jersey Storm 3

A great day from the offense was met by a great day from the pitching staff for Stacked Baseball, picking up a 13-3 win. Getting four innings of work from Ollie Arvesen, only giving up one earned run, the bullpen was phenomenal as well. With two innings in relief from Noa de la Torre and Shun Shiraiwa giving up two runs, the bats kept the game out of reach for Jersey Storm. The offense was led by Lennox Cort and Jack Williams, both recording multi-hit and multi-RBI games. Scoring 10 of their 13 runs in the fifth and sixth, put the game out of reach.



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Spanish national team player arrives in the Adriatic

The new addition to Jadran m:tel for the next season is Spanish water polo player Francisco Valera Calatrava at Škver. The Spanish international played for Sabadell last season. He participated in two World Championships with the Spanish national team, winning bronze medals both times. He also won bronze at the European Championships. He won two […]

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The new addition to Jadran m:tel for the next season is Spanish water polo player Francisco Valera Calatrava at Škver.

The Spanish international played for Sabadell last season.

He participated in two World Championships with the Spanish national team, winning bronze medals both times. He also won bronze at the European Championships.

He won two gold medals at two World Cups and has a bronze medal in the World League.

Jadran previously hired Lazar Andrić and Danilo Merkulov.


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Bruce Green: Are your feet touching the bottom? | Community

Our three grandsons were watching a water polo match on television during last summer’s Olympic Games. The players were jostling for position, splashing up a storm, all while trying to either throw a ball into the net or prevent the other team from doing so. The boys thought it looked like a great time. But […]

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Our three grandsons were watching a water polo match on television during last summer’s Olympic Games. The players were jostling for position, splashing up a storm, all while trying to either throw a ball into the net or prevent the other team from doing so. The boys thought it looked like a great time.

But there was one small question they had (I think they had been discussing it before I came into the room). They wanted me to confirm that the players were standing on the bottom of the pool while doing these things. I broke the news to them that this wasn’t the case – they were treading water. They looked at me incredulously and I could tell that water polo now looked much less like fun and much more like work.

Bruce Green has served as a teaching minister for several churches. He and his wife, Janice, recently moved to Searcy. You can find more of Bruce Green’s writings at atasteofgracewithbrucegreen.com.



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Celebrate the Outdoors on National Play Outside Day

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — July is National Park & Recreation Month—a nationwide celebration of the ways parks, green spaces, and outdoor activities contribute to healthier, more connected communities. From local trails and scenic bays to playgrounds and beaches, the Alabama Gulf Coast offers endless opportunities to get outside and stay active. Whether you’re […]

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Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — July is National Park & Recreation Month—a nationwide celebration of the ways parks, green spaces, and outdoor activities contribute to healthier, more connected communities. From local trails and scenic bays to playgrounds and beaches, the Alabama Gulf Coast offers endless opportunities to get outside and stay active. Whether you’re hiking shaded trails, paddling calm waters, or gathering for a family picnic, the month invites everyone to embrace the outdoors and make the most of the region’s natural spaces.


In that same spirit, the first Saturday of each month marks National Play Outside Day, a grassroots movement that began in 2011 to encourage families to unplug and rediscover the simple joys of outdoor play. According to the

National Play Outside Day website, this day was founded by Aaron Wiggans and Rhonda Abeyta, the initiative was created to push back against screen overload and reignite creativity, movement, and connection across all ages. It’s a day to lace up your shoes, grab some sunscreen, and head outdoors for fresh air and fun.


Spending time outside isn’t just enjoyable—it’s good for you. Outdoor activity can lift your mood, reduce stress, and support physical health. For children especially, nature encourages imaginative play through hands-on experiences like climbing, building, and exploring. These shared moments—whether catching a sunset, playing a game, or stargazing—help build stronger family bonds and lasting memories.

Also see:
Celebrate Park and Recreation Month with the City of Orange Beach this July


Outdoor Adventures in Our Area

1. Beaches & Bay

  • Gulf Shores and Orange Beach’s Public Beaches – Perfect for shelling, beach games, or family paddle boarding.
  • Orange Beach Waterfront Park – Offers picnic shelters, bay access, and calm water ideal for kids and kayaking.

2. Gulf State Park

  • Trails: Over 27 miles of multi-use trails, including the award-winning Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail—one of USA Today’s top U.S. trails for three years running.
  • Lake Shelby: Fishing, canoeing, or kayaking on a scenic freshwater lake.
  • Fishing Pier & Nature Center: A great place for both education and recreation.

3. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Traverse scrub forests, and marsh—home to sea turtles, migratory birds, and diverse wildlife. Trails like Jeff Friend and Pine Beach offer 5 miles of exploration.


4. Trails & Parks Beyond

  • Fort Morgan Road Trail & Coyote Crossing – Ideal for biking or hiking.
  • Baldwin County Bicentennial Park – Enjoy playgrounds, sports fields, and open green spaces.


Simple Ways to Celebrate Today

Choose any—or all—of these fun, low-cost ideas:

  • Family picnic at Gulf State Park Pavilion or waterfront shelters.
  • Bike ride or hike along scenic Gulf State Park trails.
  • Shell hunting or wading on the sand at dawn or sunset.
  • Nature scavenger hunt at Bon Secour or Bicentennial Park—spot birds, shells, plants.
  • Games & sports: kickball, Frisbee, beach volleyball, or a casual game of catch.
  • Stargazing tonight—head to less-lit beaches or bay shore for an unobstructed view.

This year, July 5th is a date to rediscover the simple pleasures of outdoor play. From bay breezes and beachcombing to biking and birdwatching, our region offers a wealth of natural playgrounds. Whether you’re with kids, parents, or friends, today is a perfect day to unplug, reconnect, and make lasting summer memories in the great outdoors.



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Four Lions headed to Greece | News, Sports, Jobs

UNIVERSITY PARK – Four Penn State student-athlete are among the contingent of students traveling to Greece as part of Harvard’s Sport and Education Program: from Ancient Olympia to the Present. The student-athletes participating in the trip, which will take place from July 7-11 in Olympia at the International Olympic Academy (IOA), are wrestling’s Hayden Cunningham, […]

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UNIVERSITY PARK – Four Penn State student-athlete are among the contingent of students traveling to Greece as part of Harvard’s Sport and Education Program: from Ancient Olympia to the Present. The student-athletes participating in the trip, which will take place from July 7-11 in Olympia at the International Olympic Academy (IOA), are wrestling’s Hayden Cunningham, women’s lacrosse’s Abby Baker, and track & field’s Madeleine Söderqvist and Gabriella Recce. The IOA and the Greek General Secretariate of Sport sponsor the program.

For five days this diverse body of students and faculty from Penn State, Harvard, Texas, Dartmouth and Greek universities will convene in the birthplace of the Olympic Games to examine how sport shaped ancient models of knowledge and how, in turn, the ancient athletic-knowledge complex served as a model for modern universities and professional sports.

“I am thrilled and grateful to be able to share this opportunity with Penn State’s student-athletes,” . The chance to learn, think, and talk about the connections between sport and education at the site of the ancient Olympic Games–and to do it with top scholars and students from around the world–is extraordinary.

In the state-of-the-art facilities of the IOA, participants will explore the historical, social and practical connections between sport and education from the ancient Olympics to the modern university system. Faculty-led sessions will take place on the archaeological site and museum of Ancient Olympia and the Museum of the History of the Olympic Game of Antiquity to give students a vital connection to the past.

Faculty members for this year’s program include Schultz, Charles Stocking Academic Director of the Sport and Education Program and associate professor of kinesiology at Texas, Heather Reid, Scholar in Residence at the Exedra Mediterranean Center, and Georgios Mouratidis, assistant director of the British School at Athens. Guest speakers for this program include George Mavrotas, Secretary General of Sports and former Greek Water Polo team captain, Mark Schiefsky, Director of the Center for Hellenic Studies at Harvard and Erin West, Assistant AD for student-athlete development and academic integration at Harvard.



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FSU's Brown Named NSMA's “Big House” Gaines Coach of the Year

Women’s Basketball | 7/5/2025 8:30:00 AM Story Links photo credit: Brian Westerholt/SportsOnFilm/NSMA Winston-Salem, NC — Tyreece Brown, Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Fayetteville State University, has been recognized as the Clarence “Big House” Gaines College Basketball Coach of the Year by the National Sports Media Association (NSMA). This prestigious award was presented during the NSMA’s […]

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FSU's Brown Named NSMA's “Big House” Gaines Coach of the Year

Women’s Basketball | 7/5/2025 8:30:00 AM

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Tyreece Brown NSMA
photo credit: Brian Westerholt/SportsOnFilm/NSMA

Winston-Salem, NC — Tyreece Brown, Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Fayetteville State University, has been recognized as the Clarence “Big House” Gaines College Basketball Coach of the Year by the National Sports Media Association (NSMA). This prestigious award was presented during the NSMA’s 65th awards banquet held at Grandover Resort & Spa – a Wyndham Grand Hotel, in Greensboro, North Carolina, on June 30, 2025.
 
Assuming the interim role as head coach of the Fayetteville State women’s basketball program in the 2023-24 season, Coach Brown led the Broncos to a remarkable record-breaking 29-3 regular season record and 17-1 CIAA standing, securing a CIAA Tournament championship, and achieving a historic first-ever berth in the NCAA Tournament’s Sweet Sixteen. Following the interim period, the Broncos maintained their impressive performance, finishing with an overall record of 21-8, 13-3 in conference, and capturing their second consecutive CIAA Tournament championship. This marked the first time in program history that the team had won back-to-back conference tournament titles.
 
A native of Philadelphia, Coach Brown graduated from Fayetteville State University in 2008, where he served as a two-year starter for the Broncos. He subsequently completed his master’s degree in business with a leadership concentration from Liberty University in 2013. His coaching career commenced as an assistant coach with the women’s basketball team at his alma mater in 2011, and he also served as a head cross-country coach for both programs in 2015. Currently, Coach Brown resides in Fayetteville with his wife, Kieauna, and is the parent of two daughters.
 
Clarence “Big House” Gaines had an extraordinary 47-year coaching career at Winston-Salem State University. Coach Gaines amassed 828 wins, led his team to the 1967 NCAA Division II Championship—the first national title ever won by an historically black college and university (HBCU)—and mentored countless young athletes, including NBA legend Earl “The Pearl” Monroe. A member of both the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the College Basketball Hall of Fame, Gaines was more than a coach; he was a mentor, educator, and community leader whose legacy of excellence, perseverance, and integrity continues to inspire generations. This award recognizes his enduring impact on sports, education, and the struggle for equality.
 

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Man with chronic lung condition speaks out

Power cuts may be inconvenient for most, but for Paul Buhagiar, they could be fatal. The 65-year-old, a former policeman and water polo player, suffers from pulmonary fibrosis and is now homebound in his Santa Venera apartment. Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic lung condition and is characterised by scarring and stiffening of the lung tissue, […]

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Power cuts may be inconvenient for most, but for Paul Buhagiar, they could be fatal.

The 65-year-old, a former policeman and water polo player, suffers from pulmonary fibrosis and is now homebound in his Santa Venera apartment.

Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic lung condition and is characterised by scarring and stiffening of the lung tissue, making it difficult for oxygen to pass into the bloodstream.

He takes over 700 pills a month, some funded by the government, others paid out of his own pocket, and relies on an oxygen machine to stay alive.

So when the electricity goes off, so does his only source of oxygen.

Paul Buhagiar said he has made peace with the idea of death, but not the fear that a power cut could bring it on suddenly.Paul Buhagiar said he has made peace with the idea of death, but not the fear that a power cut could bring it on suddenly.

He shared his story with Hospice Malta in a video interview ahead of this Sunday’s 12-hour telethon, themed Ħajja sal-aħħar [Life till the end].

“I am apparently electrically operated. If the electricity stops, so do I,” he shared. “If you don’t get it back within a few minutes, you’re gone. You turn purple. I have already had a number of close shaves when the electricity goes,” said the pragmatic Buhagiar.

Buhagiar speaking from his home. Vidoe: Hospice

Speaking to Times of Malta, he said he has made peace with the idea of death, but not the fear that a power cut could bring it on suddenly.

“I know where I am heading, so I am not scared to die. I’ve lived a good life,” he said.

“But sometimes the power cuts are the only thing that run through my mind. So much so I am scared to sleep sometimes,” he said.

One of his greatest worries is that a power cut will hit while he’s asleep and unable to react.

“This is my biggest concern these days,” said Buhagiar.

He noted that he even got a generator to use as backup just in case, but due to the heat in summer, even that can overheat and stop.

Paul Buhagiar used to be very keen on fishing.Paul Buhagiar used to be very keen on fishing.

Buhagiar has lived with the condition for around 20 years, but his health has sharply declined over the past two years and he has been using Hospice’s services since June last year. He now only leaves the house for hospital visits.

Despite the challenges, he maintains an upbeat outlook and reflects fondly on his life.

“I have enjoyed my life. I lived in the UK and spent a lot of time at sea, swimming or fishing. Being by the sea used to make me very happy.”

Though his world has shrunk, he still finds joy in visits from friends and family and watching sports. The care he receives from Hospice Malta has become a vital source of comfort.

“To me hospice is like a second mum. Because I am being loved as much as a mother would her child,” said Buhagiar. He shared that he feels incredibly supported and lucky to receive this service.

Paul Buhagiar after a fishing trip.Paul Buhagiar after a fishing trip.

Hospice Malta has supported 1,560 patients this year and now operates from the new St Michael Hospice, which will soon house 16 in-patient rooms. Demand is rising and according to Hospice they receive three new patients each day. Sunday’s telethon (11am–11pm) will be aired on every local station and will help fund its free professional home and hospice care.

“What you have to do it because you don’t know what tomorrow will bring,” shared Buhagiar as a reminder for anyone willing to listen.



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