It's curtains for Smith's Ballpark after final game
It’s officially the end of baseball at Smith’s Ballpark, as the Utah Utes closed the curtain on baseball at 13th South and West Temple with a final home game, in anticipation of a Salt Lake City-led overhaul. With the Salt Lake Bees (Triple-A; Pacific Coast League) moving to a new ballpark in South Jordan this […]
It’s officially the end of baseball at Smith’s Ballpark, as the Utah Utes closed the curtain on baseball at 13th South and West Temple with a final home game, in anticipation of a Salt Lake City-led overhaul.
With the Salt Lake Bees (Triple-A; Pacific Coast League) moving to a new ballpark in South Jordan this season, Smith’s Ballpark–which opened in 1994–was kept open by the Bees to accommodate the University of Utah Utes until a new on-campus ballpark is completed for the 2026 NCAA season. The history of the site as a baseball Mecca, however, dates back to 1927 when Community Park/Derks Field was built there. Over the years there were plenty of affiliated and renegade teams playing there–the Trappers, Stingers, Gulls, Buzz and Bees–so naturally there’s a few teams shed over the end of an era. From KSL Sports:
“I’ve called a lot of games here over the years for Utah baseball,” Voice of the Utes Bill Riley said from his familiar perch in the press box. “It’s weird to think that I won’t be coming down to this park anymore. That there won’t be baseball at 13th South and West Temple anymore.”…
“There’s been a home plate right where it is here for 97 years,” former Utah head coach and current analyst Bill Kinneberg said. “That’s pretty iconic and kind of amazing. So it’s sad that it’s going away.”
Strictly speaking, the ballpark isn’t totally going way, but being redeveloped in the name of adaptive reuse. We’re likely to see outfield sections torn down, but the playing field will remain as community green space and the current entryway remaining.
Granite Hills’ Ella Morgan finished her freshman season with a section championship in the girls 500-yard freestyle and third-place state medal in the 200 freestyle. (Courtesy) Despite being a freshman, Granite Hills’ Ella Morgan broke four league records, five school records, including two dating from 1989, and was the San Diego Section champion in the […]
Granite Hills’ Ella Morgan finished her freshman season with a section championship in the girls 500-yard freestyle and third-place state medal in the 200 freestyle. (Courtesy)
Despite being a freshman, Granite Hills’ Ella Morgan broke four league records, five school records, including two dating from 1989, and was the San Diego Section champion in the girls 500-yard freestyle event at this year’s CIF swimming finals. She finished runner-up in the 200 freestyle by 0.31 seconds, finishing just 0.08 seconds off the all-time section record.
Morgan ended her first scholastic season at the California state championship meet where she placed third in the 200 freestyle in 1:49.93 while being out-touched by two upperclassmen. She finished higher than Torrey Pines junior Aya Ferguson at the state meet after being out-touched by Ferguson at the section meet. Morgan earned notice as the fastest freshman at the state meet in the 200 distance and finished among the four freshmen to qualify in the 500 distance (4:55.16 in the prelims to place 15th.
All these accomplishments added up to highlight Morgan as the 2025 Grossmont Hills League Swimmer of the Year and Granite Hills MVP.
Morgan notched High School All-American automatic times in both the 200 and 500 freestyle events after recording an undefeated season in dual meets.
She won the section title in the 500 freestyle in 4:53.65 while finishing second in the 200 freestyle in 1:48.13.
Ferguson touched first in the 200 freestyle in 1:47.82 to eclipse the standing CIF record of 1:48.05.
Ranked No. 1 in her freshman class academically at Granite Hills High School, Morgan played a “huge part,” according to Eagles coach Cathy Elgas, in the Lady Eagles’ undefeated season as league champions and fifth-place finish at the Division I section finals.
Colleges are already tracking her.
And she’s not alone as Granite Hills junior teammate Austin Felio also qualified for the state meet in the 50 freestyle (22.02, 35th overall) and 500 freestyle (4:35.14, 30th overall). He has already committed to Colorado Mesa University to join older brother Braden there.
Noteworthy Ella Morgan is the younger sister of Granite Hills alumna Chloe Morgan, who went on to play two years of women’s water polo at Cal Baptist University. Ella Morgan is also a member of the Manta Rays Aquatic club swim team and will be competing in the Junior Nationals championship event July 30-31 in Irvine. The Junior Winter Nationals are scheduled in December in Texas. Grossmont freshman Aramis Willett won the Division I section title in the boys 100 butterfly (48.32) to also advance to the state meet. He finished his own meteoric season by placing in a tie for sixth place in the state A-heat with a time of 48.91.
1 Siesta Key, Florida krblokhin//Getty Images Renowned for its powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Siesta Key is a slice of paradise that offers endless fun for all ages. Relax under the sun while kids build sandcastles, or embark on exciting adventures like paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. Explore nearby shops, savor delicious seafood […]
Renowned for its powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Siesta Key is a slice of paradise that offers endless fun for all ages. Relax under the sun while kids build sandcastles, or embark on exciting adventures like paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. Explore nearby shops, savor delicious seafood at waterfront restaurants, and end your days with breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.
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2
Honolulu, Hawaii
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Experience the perfect family beach vacation in Honolulu, Hawaii, where golden sands meet the vibrant energy of island life. From the iconic shores of Waikiki Beach to the calm waters of Ala Moana Beach Park, Honolulu offers safe, family-friendly spots to swim, snorkel, and enjoy water sports. Explore the rich culture and history at Pearl Harbor or the Bishop Museum, hike the scenic trails of Diamond Head, or delight in the thrill of spotting sea turtles in their natural habitat.
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3
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
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Make memories that last a lifetime with a family beach vacation on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Famous for its wide sandy beaches and warm, gentle waves, Hilton Head is a haven for relaxation and outdoor fun. Families can bike along scenic trails, paddle through tranquil marshes, or build sandcastles under the sun. Enjoy quality time playing golf, mini-golf, or exploring charming local shops and eateries. With its kid-friendly activities, beautiful beachfront resorts, and breathtaking sunsets, it’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
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4
Assateague Island, Maryland/Virginia
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Escape to Assateague Island for an unforgettable family beach vacation filled with natural beauty and adventure. Known for its pristine beaches and iconic wild ponies, Assateague offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle. Families can enjoy swimming, crabbing, birdwatching, and kayaking in this serene coastal gem. Explore the island’s hiking trails and take in breathtaking views of its landscapes. Kids will love searching for seashells and spotting wildlife, while parents can relax in the peaceful surroundings.
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5
Edmonds, Washington
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Located only about 17 miles from Seattle, but a world away from that city’s hustle and bustle, Edmonds offers the popular Marina Beach Park beach. It’s beloved by families for the jaw-dropping views, playground and volleyball facilities. Or visit Olympic Beach, located at the foot of the Edmonds Public Fishing Pier. Amenities include picnic tables, a viewing scope, and a kayak launch. You’ll also find naturalists in the Visitor Station come summer who will be happy to explain to the whole family what the marine critters are in the touch tank.
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6
Destin, Florida
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Situated in the Sunshine State’s panhandle, Destin is one of the country’s favorite towns for family-friendly beach getaways. The white sands and pretty green seas at Henderson Beach State Park and James Lee Park—which both also offer playgrounds, picnic areas and bathrooms—are just one enticement. Also, grandparents, parents, and the kiddos alike will adore the fun attractions like dolphin cruises, golfing, tours, a zoo, a massive water park, and water activities like parasailing, kayaking, and snorkeling.
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7
Gulf Shores/Orange Beach, Alabama
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For Southern hospitality with a down-home vibe, few locales beat Gulf Shores and its sister city, Orange Beach. The sugar-like sand spans 32 miles, and there are plenty of activities available for adults (championship golf) and kids (amusement parks) alike. Families can also partake in the 6,000-acre Gulf State Park, with public beach access, fishing, hiking, biking and even Segway tours all available. You might also check out attractions like The Wharf which offers shopping, dining, and one-of-a-kind entertainment thanks to its amphitheater, Ferris wheel, and arcades.
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8
Outer Banks, North Carolina
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From watching wild horses play along the shoreline in Corolla, to hang gliding off the East Coast’s tallest sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, there is no shortage of unique adventures to try in the Outer Banks. We’re talking museums, lighthouses, fishing, water tours, and even mini golf! But also keep in mind that this 100 mile-plus stretch of barrier islands dishes out a wealth of unspoiled, serene sand you definitely won’t want to miss. And speaking of dishes, don’t miss out on the local cuisine. You can’t go wrong ordering the fresh catch of the day!
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9
Maui, Hawaii
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If you’re going to fly the fam to Hawaii, make sure you double your fun and schedule a stop in Maui. Known as the “Valley Isle,” the second-largest island in the 50th state is blessed with more than 30 miles of white, black, and even red sand beaches. Take the little ones to Baldwin State Park, which includes a “baby beach” on a lagoon. Launiupoko Beach Park, with a pool formed by a natural rock wall, is also good for younger children, while older ones will want to snorkel at Kaanapali Beach. Of course, along with stunning beaches and water activities, you can enjoy aquariums, a scenic drive on Road to Hana, hikes, and other cultural experiences.
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10
Ocean City, Maryland
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Ocean City is another big hit on the East Coast with family vacationers come summer, thanks to 10 miles of well-maintained beaches great for fishing, surfing, kayaking and more. The area also hosts free events in the warm weather months, ranging from fireworks to movie showings. In particular, teens will want to stroll the three-mile boardwalk, lined with arcades, ride and shops.
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11
Cape May, New Jersey
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With less than three miles of beaches, historic Cape May makes for a small but mighty destination for families. Popular activities on the sand and in the sea include not only swimming but also surfing, skimboarding and sand sculpting, as well as kayaking and volleyball (nets are located at both Steger and 2nd Avenue beaches). The cozy size of this island, said to be the country’s oldest seaside resort, keeps it all friendly and familiar, but remember to purchase beach tags in the summer months.
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12
Baldwin Beach, Lake Tahoe, California
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For families looking for a mix of relaxing beach and outdoor adventure, try Baldwin Beach and nearby Pope Beach on the shores of Lake Tahoe. The shallow, clear waters are perfect for beginning swimmers and there are ample picnic areas to cool off beneath the gorgeous pines.
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13
Long Beach, New York
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Long Beach is situated on the south shore of Long Island with more than two miles of boardwalk to enjoy. It is ranked one of the cleanest beaches in the U.S. and is both an easy trip via train from New York City and in driving distance to several other scenic beaches, including the Hamptons and the iconic Coney Island.
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14
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
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Rehoboth Beach has been a family holiday destination since the 1920s! With a scenic boardwalk and lots of activities for everyone, you’ll easily stay occupied. There’s everything from golf to a classic amusement park called Funland nearby. It’s also a short drive from Cape Henlopen State Park and an outlet mall for some retail therapy.
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15
Cannon Beach, Oregon
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It may be hard to choose a beach along Oregon’s 300+ mile coastline, but the famous Haystack Rock on Cannon Beach is a must-see. The beach is also one of the best places in early summer to see puffins! You can also go whale watching and go hiking in nearby Ecola State Park.
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16
Amelia Island, Florida
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More laid back than some other locations in Florida, Amelia Island is situated only 30 minutes from the Jacksonville Airport, but feels a world away. You get 13 miles of uncrowded and unspoiled beaches where you can explore nature and abundant native wildlife. And yet, there are still plenty of top-notch restaurants and even music festivals to enjoy in the island’s historic downtown center. Enjoy the beach and Fort Clinch State Park on a horseback tour and then head to town for dinner.
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17
Laguna Beach, California
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You might be surprised to learn it, since surfing is pretty much the official pastime in Southern California, but Laguna Beach has a few sections in its seven miles of coastline that actually feature calm-ish water. Take the whole family to see-and-be-seen Main Beach, where there are restrooms, lifeguards, a playground and volleyball courts known to be frequented by Olympians. Or, bring teens who dream of learning to “shoot the curl” to Thalia Street Beach, a great spot for beginner surfers.
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18
Kiawah Island, South Carolina
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Located just over 20 miles south of Charleston, Kiawah Island is home to ten miles of sandy beaches, over 100 acres of parks, and 30 miles of trails to hike and bike. Oh, and there are five championship golf courses! Hit nine holes one day and then go on a nature walk in Marsh Island Park to look for birds, butterflies, and even alligators. There’s plenty to do for kids and adults of all ages.
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19
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
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Myrtle Beach boasts a beaut that runs through more than a mile of the city’s downtown. Kids will get a kick out of SkyWheel, an observation ride that rises nearly 200 feet high, but parents will also want to schedule plenty of time to explore the surrounding 60 miles of uninterrupted beaches. With lifeguards, a daily cleaning crew and access points that provide restrooms and showers, Surfside Beach is the best bet for families.
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20
Virginia Beach, Virginia
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Home to a popular aquarium, indoor skydiving, mini golf and a three-mile boardwalk, Virginia Beach provides plenty of family attractions to go with its sandy shores. But be sure not to overlook the fabulous beaches, whether you opt for an Atlantic-fronted view or prefer to dip your toes in the Chesapeake (the city is the only one located on both bodies of water). The bay’s beaches, like Chic’s Beach, are great for younger kids, thanks to comfortably calm waters.
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Jill Gleeson is a travel journalist and memoirist based in the Appalachian Mountains of western Pennsylvania who has written for websites and publications including Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, Country Living, Washingtonian, Gothamist, Canadian Traveller, and EDGE Media Network. Jill is the travel editor for Enchanted Living. Learn more about her journey at gleesonreboots.com.
Eagle-Tribune All-Time Boys Track and Field Leaders | Local Sports
Michael Muldoon compiled the area boys and girls all-time track leaders from 1988-2021. David Willis has compiled leaders since 2023. E-mail corrections to dwillis@eagletribune.com. ×
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Michael Muldoon compiled the area boys and girls all-time track leaders from 1988-2021. David Willis has compiled leaders since 2023. E-mail corrections to dwillis@eagletribune.com.
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New Bay Volleyball head coach Sarah Livingstone settling in this summer
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) – Just two months ago, Sarah Livingstone was promoted from assistant coach to the head coach of the Bay volleyball program. And so far things to be going smoothly for the coach. She and her staff and players just wrapping up a four day youth volleyball clinic at Cobb Gym with […]
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) – Just two months ago, Sarah Livingstone was promoted from assistant coach to the head coach of the Bay volleyball program.
And so far things to be going smoothly for the coach. She and her staff and players just wrapping up a four day youth volleyball clinic at Cobb Gym with well over a hundred kids taking part.
As for her taking over the reigns, the coach tells us that’s going well with her players receptive to the change.
“This is my second month as the head coach. I was the assistant coach the past two years. So my transition is pretty smooth. I know a lot of the girls. All my girls are returning. It’s been pretty smooth, I’ve been really enjoying my time. It’s great, we’ve been in the gym, open gym, conditioning and practice. And the girls are taking the transition really well.” Livingstone said.
Most of the players helping out with the camp and the coach says that turned into a good team bonding experience. The first day of fall practice is the 28th with the season openers set for August 18th, so just over a month away.
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Malala Yousafzai and Billie Jean King Partner Up To Promote Women's Sports, and Invest in …
Consider it the latest use of girl power. International activist Malala Yousafzai recently announced a new venture called Recess that will deploy a partnership with tennis legend Billie Jean King to promote women’s sports across the world, including some planned investment in basketball’s WNBA and the NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League). Yousafzai, who survived a […]
International activist Malala Yousafzai recently announced a new venture called Recess that will deploy a partnership with tennis legend Billie Jean King to promote women’s sports across the world, including some planned investment in basketball’s WNBA and the NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League).
Yousafzai, who survived a gunshot wound from the Taliban at 15 and won the Nobel Peace Prize just a few years later, is a huge sports fan who recognizes the power of athletics to pull people together.
“We are capable of dialogue, we are capable of coming together, and sports—in history and in the current times—have proven to be that powerful way of bringing communities together,” she said in an article on CNN.
Following her previous work in promoting equal educational opportunities across the world, Recess will strive to expand athletic opportunities to empower girls, and invest in women’s sports.
Malala Yousafzai in 2024 (by Adam Chitayat) and Billie Jean King in 2019 (Selfie by Sam Rapoport @Samrap10) – Both under CC BY-SA 4.0 / Wikimedia
Yousafzai will work alongside her husband, Asser Malik, who has experience in Pakistan’s cricket scene, and Billie Jean King, who will serve as an advisor. Some of the early targets for investment include the WNBA and the NWSL, which could provide enough growth potential to sustain the venture far into the future.
Women’s basketball has experienced a surge of popularity in recent years. According to the NCAA, the women’s basketball tournament drew 351,777 fans in attendance (the third highest total in its history), with the 2025 Championship Game peaking at 9.9 million television viewers on ABC.
Meanwhile, soccer’s NWSL averaged almost a million viewers of its 2024 championship game, an 18% increase over the previous year. Attendance has also jumped by more than 40%, exceeding more than 2 million total fans last season.
Sporting starts at home
Those leagues, however, aren’t the only targets for Yousafzai’s Recess initiative. She is thinking much broader, with her own experiences always present in her mind.
Yousafzai remembers growing up in Pakistan and having to stay behind with the other girls while the boys at school headed off to the cricket fields during recess.
She is hoping to change those experiences for future generations, granting better access to playing fields and athletic opportunities for girls all over the world.
“It’s empowering girls,” Yousafzai told CNN about her goals for Recess. “It’s sending a powerful message to women, to all of us, that the sky’s the limit, and women’s sports will thrive.
“We will have more equal opportunities for women and girls, and we can imagine a world where girls are empowered.”
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Herald-Banner columnist, ETAMU coach, named president of Fort Scott Community College | Local Sports
Dr. Jack Welch, who contributes weekly columns to the Herald-Banner, has been named as the new president of Fort Scott Community College in Kansas. Welch, who writes the From the Bleachers column that is featured each week in the Herald-Banner sports section, previously served as the head football coach/athletic director at Fort Scott from 1987-1992. […]
Dr. Jack Welch, who contributes weekly columns to the Herald-Banner, has been named as the new president of Fort Scott Community College in Kansas.
Welch, who writes the From the Bleachers column that is featured each week in the Herald-Banner sports section, previously served as the head football coach/athletic director at Fort Scott from 1987-1992.
“Dr. Welch brings to our college a distinguished background in higher education leadership and experience with FSCC and the community of Fort Scott,” as written in a release by the university. “With his deep understanding of student success, community engagement and academic excellence, he is exceptionally well-suited to lead our institution into its next chapter.
“In this role, Dr. Welch will oversee all aspects of the college’s operations and strategic direction, working closely with faculty, staff, students, and community partners to ensure that our mission of accessible, high-quality education continues to thrive.”
Welch coached from 2019 -2024 as an assistant football coach at East Texas A&M. He was the special teams coordinator and chief of staff. He coached all-American kick returner Dominque Ramsey and all-conference punter Mitch McGarry, among others.
He was also a head football coach in high school at Santo in 1981 and then from 1994-2017 at Copperas Cove. He coached future Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III at Copperas Cove and led the Bulldawgs to 18 playoff appearances and two trips to the state finals. His career record as a head coach in high school was 194-91-1.
RGIII won the Heisman as a quarterback at Baylor and played in the NFL for Washington, Cleveland and Baltimore.
Another of his former players, Charles “Peanut” Tillman, played in the NFL for the Chicago Bears and Carolina Panthers.
Welch was also a head football coach at Kansas Wesleyan from 1985-1986 and was an assistant coach in college at Louisiana Tech in 1993, at West Texas State from 1982-1984 and was a graduate assistant at West Texas State in 1980.
Welch also coached the special teams of the San Antonio Brahmas of the United Football League this past spring.
He lettered in football, baseball and track and field at Taylor University in Indiana and earned all-state honors in baseball at Bridgeport High School. He also played one season of high school football at Osawatomie, Kan., where his teammate was Derrick Jensen, who later played at UT-Arlington in college and in the NFL with the Raiders.
He obtained his bachelor’s degree at Taylor University, his master’s at West Texas and his doctorate at Mary Hardin-Baylor.