Is it just me, or am I starting to sense a lot of apathy out there? How many weeks has it been since somebody posted a comment on this blog? I know people are reading, but I think we have all reached a point where we are losing are active passion for Husky football.
The Huskies had another open scrimmage on Saturday and as I reported on Monday the defense was the story of the day. One thing I am encouraged about is that Williams, and Aiyewa are making their move at Safety and should be the starting duo heading into Fall drills. Wells of course will be back, and is on track to reclaim his starting position, but it is good news that the two young guys will be in the rotation. Harris, and Forrester will be there too, but the seniors are going to lose playing time as the year goes on because the sophomore duo are the future of the safety position.
I wish I could say the same thing at cornerback. We need to really improve that position between now and Fall. If the Oregon game was tomorrow Mosley, and Davenport would be the starters. Richardson is a guy I can see getting a lot of time on obvious running downs during the season as he works on his coverage skills.
Linebacker looks fine, we will be improved over last year. EJ Savannah coming back this week is good news. Kurt Mangum is having a nice Spring, and it should help him get early playing time next Fall. Hopefully EJ can keep his nose clean between now and Fall. I also think we will be fine at defensive end, but the interior really scares me.
Fandome
We added a new feature this week called Fandome. If you click the link it will give you video highlights of Washington athletics.
Pac Ten Alley
Let's take our weekly walk down the coast and see what the neighbors are up to.
It looks like Oregon has found a power running back to ease the loss of Jonathan Stewart.
Blount didn't disappoint, running for a team-high 68 yards on 11 carries and one touchdown. Blount had four runs of 10 yards or more and rarely was tackled by the first defender who touched him. Blount said his high school experience as a linebacker and defensive back likely attributes to his forceful nature as a running back.
BYU wrapped up practice for the Spring and the Cougars just might be a pretty formidable opponent next Fall.
This is what we said was worth watching during BYU spring football. How did these story lines and players to watch turn out?
Oklahoma also wrapped up Spring drills on Saturday.
The Red/White Game usually serves as the end of Oklahoma’s spring practices or drills and everything turns toward the upcoming season. At times, it’s also been a coming out party for players who are ready to seize the spotlight.
Oregon State is trying to fill some holes on defense this Spring.
When Oregon State coach Mike Riley is asked about the most pressing issue facing his football team going into spring practice, he immediately thinks about a defense that lost eight starters.
"We've got holes to fill," Riley said. "Big-time holes to fill."
Stanford has a three man race for QB this Spring.
What looked like a two-man race entering camp (Tavita Pritchard and Jason Forcier) actually turned into a three-man race (Pritchard, Forcier and Alex Loukas). Pritchard is the only contender with game experience (in a Stanford uniform), but he never will be an elite quarterback at the Pac-10 level. The mere fact that he’s not the clear-cut No. 1, with his advantage in experience, speaks volumes.
California also has an open competition at the QB this Spring.
The most indelible image from a quarterback in Cal's first scrimmage of the spring came Saturday from a fourth-stringer who wasn't even playing quarterback. Cory Smits, a junior walk-on who was acting as a scout-team gunner, sprinted about 50 yards, fended off a blocker and tackled returner Nyan Boateng as he fielded a punt. "He may have just won himself a spot on the travel squad," coach Jeff Tedford said. "I'm just kidding. Don't write that." That isn't much insight into the quarterback competition, and that's because there isn't any. As Tedford hinted at before spring drills, the job probably isn't going to be won in the spring, and, now, it's even less likely.
Not a lot of people showed up for the Arizona spring game.
The University of Arizona football team has had great attendance figures over the past several years, but that is about to change. At least the numbers should look completely different if the turn out for the Wildcats Spring game on Saturday at Arizona Stadium is any indication.
They were awful.
Notre Dame is trying to bounce back in 2008, and Irish eyes are on Charlie Weis.
The surgeries are done, the quarterback is set and there are fewer holes to replace than last season. Yet while Notre Dame’s spring practice in 2007 had the intrigue of a quarterback competition and the anticipation of replacing a group that went to two BCS bowl games, this spring might be the most critical of Charlie Weis’ tenure in South Bend.
Washington State wrapped up its first Spring under Paul Wulff.
Somebody had to catch those passes and on this day, the guy who stood out was Michael Willis. Without hesitation, I would say that Willis was the star of the day. After all his injuries and the move from safety to wide receiver, I would not have been surprised if we never actually heard from this guy - but he was incredible today. Gibson didn't play much (when he did, he was money), and Blackledge didn't make much noise, so it was Willis' day and he made the most of it. He caught a beautiful 40-yard seam between a corner and a safety for the biggest play of that 2-minute drill and then capped off the drive with a nice catch for a TD on a ball that was thrown a bit behind him. Proving that there was a reason he started out as a safety, he also laid some hat, with a crushing block on a nice run around the left side. If Willis can stay healthy, look for big things out of him this fall.
Pat Cowan looks like he has won the starting job at UCLA. Funny thing is RN, and Gilby passed up recruiting Pat when he was at UW.
One-third of the way through spring practice and UCLA already has its No. 1 quarterback. Coach Rick Neuheisel on Saturday acknowledged the choice was Patrick Cowan.
Sanchez and Mustain are struggling this Spring at USC. The Trojans still will be the team to beat in 2008, but they will be beatable.
The way USC's top quarterbacks played in Saturday's scrimmage, no one deserves to replace John David Booty. But no progress preserves the status quo, which is good news for Mark Sanchez, the coaches' choice to be the starter. Sanchez did not stand out during the 78-play scrimmage, but neither did his competition, Arkansas transfer Mitch Mustain. Sanchez completed nine of 17 passes for 97 yards with an interception; Mustain completed nine of 18 passes for 112 yards with a touchdown and interception.
The hitting has been intensified the Spring at ASU. The team is starting to take on that Erickson swagger.
The best news out of Arizona State's second major football scrimmage Saturday was that wide receiver Chris McGaha and cornerback Omar Bolden walked away from easily the scariest moment of spring practice. The two starters became entangled after McGaha's 15-yard reception on a fourth-and-1 rollout pass by quarterback Rudy Carpenter. Both were sprawled in pain along the sideline at Sun Devil Stadium for several minutes before leaving the field without assistance, their day done.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Monday, April 14, 2008
Hasty and Savannah are Back
The Bellevue Bad Boys were back on the field today after spending half the Spring running the stairs of Husky Stadium. I was betting on Ty relenting last weekend, but half a spring is better than no Spring.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
The Monday Morning Wash
Ty Willingham remarked on Saturday that he would have loved to have seen, and listened to the Dalai Lama while he was on the UW campus this weekend, but football practice on Saturday prevented Ty from meeting, or listening to the Dalai Lama's presentation. Too bad because the UW football coach could have benefited from the wisdom of the Lama.
"So I jump ship in Hong Kong and make my way over to Tibet, and I get on as a looper at a course over in the Himalayas. A looper, you know, a caddy, a looper, a jock. So, I tell them I'm a pro jock, and who do you think they give me? The Dalai Lama, himself. Twelfth son of the Lama. The flowing robes, the grace, bald ... striking. So, I'm on the first tee with him. I give him the driver. He hauls off and whacks one – big hitter, the Lama – long, into a 10,000-foot crevice, right at the base of this glacier. And do you know what the Lama says? Gunga galunga ... gunga – gunga lagunga. So we finish the 18th and he's gonna stiff me. And I say, "Hey, Lama, hey, how about a little something, you know, for the effort, you know." And he says, "Oh, uh, there won't be any money, but when you die, on your deathbed, you will receive total consciousness." So I got that goin' for me, which is nice."
60,000 fans showed up for Florida's Spring Game. How about that? I can remember days close to that in Husky Stadium when the Alumni game was played an players like Ben Davidson, and Bob Schloredt arrived by ambulance. Those were the days.
The Husky defense looked improved in Saturday's scrimmage. Not sure if the talent or proficiency level is quite there, but Ed Donatell is getting his kids motivated, and disguising things in a better fashion according to observers. Last season that could have resulted in enough extra wins for the Huskies to have gone to a bowl game. The Huskies still need to grow in the interior defensive line, and the cornerback position still needs a lot of help, or growth.
Offensively Brandon Johnson is obviously the man at TB in 2008, but he will get some assistance from his bruising FB Paul Homer, and the change up of running Polk/Shaw from the slot. Things still haven't slowed down enough for Jake Locker yet to move to the next level as a passer. He is steadily improving, but he hasn't made the quantum leap yet as an accurate passer. There is still plenty of time for that to happen over the Summer.
D'Andre Goodwin has lifted his game to the next level now that he is the old man at WR. Look for the "Flea" to lead the team in many ways next season as a returner, and pass catcher.
No change on the status of JR Hasty, and EJ Savannah, both are becoming very proficient at running stairs.
"So I jump ship in Hong Kong and make my way over to Tibet, and I get on as a looper at a course over in the Himalayas. A looper, you know, a caddy, a looper, a jock. So, I tell them I'm a pro jock, and who do you think they give me? The Dalai Lama, himself. Twelfth son of the Lama. The flowing robes, the grace, bald ... striking. So, I'm on the first tee with him. I give him the driver. He hauls off and whacks one – big hitter, the Lama – long, into a 10,000-foot crevice, right at the base of this glacier. And do you know what the Lama says? Gunga galunga ... gunga – gunga lagunga. So we finish the 18th and he's gonna stiff me. And I say, "Hey, Lama, hey, how about a little something, you know, for the effort, you know." And he says, "Oh, uh, there won't be any money, but when you die, on your deathbed, you will receive total consciousness." So I got that goin' for me, which is nice."
60,000 fans showed up for Florida's Spring Game. How about that? I can remember days close to that in Husky Stadium when the Alumni game was played an players like Ben Davidson, and Bob Schloredt arrived by ambulance. Those were the days.
The Husky defense looked improved in Saturday's scrimmage. Not sure if the talent or proficiency level is quite there, but Ed Donatell is getting his kids motivated, and disguising things in a better fashion according to observers. Last season that could have resulted in enough extra wins for the Huskies to have gone to a bowl game. The Huskies still need to grow in the interior defensive line, and the cornerback position still needs a lot of help, or growth.
Offensively Brandon Johnson is obviously the man at TB in 2008, but he will get some assistance from his bruising FB Paul Homer, and the change up of running Polk/Shaw from the slot. Things still haven't slowed down enough for Jake Locker yet to move to the next level as a passer. He is steadily improving, but he hasn't made the quantum leap yet as an accurate passer. There is still plenty of time for that to happen over the Summer.
D'Andre Goodwin has lifted his game to the next level now that he is the old man at WR. Look for the "Flea" to lead the team in many ways next season as a returner, and pass catcher.
No change on the status of JR Hasty, and EJ Savannah, both are becoming very proficient at running stairs.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Pac Ten Alley
The Huskies took Monday off and practiced yesterday. Not a lot to report since I didn't have any friends at practice on Tuesday.
According to the papers Hasty, and Savannah are still running stairs, but my intuition tells me that Willingham will let them back on the field any day now. The coaches are getting interviewed by the press and the latest to talk is new TE/ST coach Brian White. White says they have enough talent, it is more of a want succeed type of thing he needs to develop. As we said last week Goodwin should be the punt return guy this Fall. An educated on kickoff return guys is that Shaw, Goodwin, and Polk should be the guys back there based on speed, and hands.
The Huskies have eleven more practices including the Spring game.
Pac Ten Alley
Lets take a walk down the coast and see what the neighbors are up to.
Spring Camp has wrapped up over at WSU
Alfonso Jackson and Chima Nwachukwu switched positions early in camp, and things have gone so well according to coach Ball that it will stay this way into the '08 season.
Tony Bennett isn't going anywhere which is good news for WSU fans. He reportedly turned down Marquette, LSU, California, and Indiana. It makes you wonder what his ideal job is at this point?
Tony Bennett said Tuesday he will remain the basketball coach at Washington State University, where he is the first coach to take the Cougars to two consecutive NCAA tournament appearances.
UCLA will be rebuilding next years basketball team because the majority of the top players on the team are leaving. It will be a whole new league next season, and Washington which was down the last two years should be one of the top teams in the league.
I am not going go through the roller coaster of up or down re. Whether DC, RW or KL will stay or go. I don’t have any inside sources ala Dohn, Pucin or any other beat reporters. I don’t talk to the coaches or players.However, given what I have read to date and based on my two decades of following UCLA (and the world of college hoops on a day to day basis) I believe we have seen the last of DC, RW, and KL at UCLA. I believe they are gone and it will be nothing short of an absolute miracle if any one of them decides to come back for another season at UCLA
Picking a QB at UCLA
It's only been five days. Kevin Craft is still learning his way around campus. Patrick Cowan and Ben Olson are still shaking the off-season rust off. Chris Forcier and Osaar Rasshan are trying to make an impression with just a handful of reps each day. But UCLA's five-man quarterback competition could fast be coming to a close. After Tuesday's practice, coach Rick Neuheisel and new offensive coordinator Norm Chow said they will start thinning the competition out a bit, and one or two players could be out of the competition as soon as Thursday. "We've got 10 more practices, then fall camp, and 29 practices after that, we've got Tennessee so we need to do something and I think everybody realizes the urgency of it,'' Chow said
The Stanford women were dominant in the finals.
Watching Stanford dismantle U-Conn yesterday, I had the same feeling I did watching Memphis pound UCLA on Saturday. That’s not to say the teams, players and coaches are even close to identical — especially the coaches. (Tara VanDerveer is always pleasant, modest, respectful …)
But the Cardinal women and Tiger men share a few things in common, starting with “it.”
It looks Like Mike Montgomery couldn't resist and is rumored to be the next head coach at Cal.
According to the papers Hasty, and Savannah are still running stairs, but my intuition tells me that Willingham will let them back on the field any day now. The coaches are getting interviewed by the press and the latest to talk is new TE/ST coach Brian White. White says they have enough talent, it is more of a want succeed type of thing he needs to develop. As we said last week Goodwin should be the punt return guy this Fall. An educated on kickoff return guys is that Shaw, Goodwin, and Polk should be the guys back there based on speed, and hands.
The Huskies have eleven more practices including the Spring game.
Pac Ten Alley
Lets take a walk down the coast and see what the neighbors are up to.
Spring Camp has wrapped up over at WSU
Alfonso Jackson and Chima Nwachukwu switched positions early in camp, and things have gone so well according to coach Ball that it will stay this way into the '08 season.
Tony Bennett isn't going anywhere which is good news for WSU fans. He reportedly turned down Marquette, LSU, California, and Indiana. It makes you wonder what his ideal job is at this point?
Tony Bennett said Tuesday he will remain the basketball coach at Washington State University, where he is the first coach to take the Cougars to two consecutive NCAA tournament appearances.
UCLA will be rebuilding next years basketball team because the majority of the top players on the team are leaving. It will be a whole new league next season, and Washington which was down the last two years should be one of the top teams in the league.
I am not going go through the roller coaster of up or down re. Whether DC, RW or KL will stay or go. I don’t have any inside sources ala Dohn, Pucin or any other beat reporters. I don’t talk to the coaches or players.However, given what I have read to date and based on my two decades of following UCLA (and the world of college hoops on a day to day basis) I believe we have seen the last of DC, RW, and KL at UCLA. I believe they are gone and it will be nothing short of an absolute miracle if any one of them decides to come back for another season at UCLA
Picking a QB at UCLA
It's only been five days. Kevin Craft is still learning his way around campus. Patrick Cowan and Ben Olson are still shaking the off-season rust off. Chris Forcier and Osaar Rasshan are trying to make an impression with just a handful of reps each day. But UCLA's five-man quarterback competition could fast be coming to a close. After Tuesday's practice, coach Rick Neuheisel and new offensive coordinator Norm Chow said they will start thinning the competition out a bit, and one or two players could be out of the competition as soon as Thursday. "We've got 10 more practices, then fall camp, and 29 practices after that, we've got Tennessee so we need to do something and I think everybody realizes the urgency of it,'' Chow said
The Stanford women were dominant in the finals.
Watching Stanford dismantle U-Conn yesterday, I had the same feeling I did watching Memphis pound UCLA on Saturday. That’s not to say the teams, players and coaches are even close to identical — especially the coaches. (Tara VanDerveer is always pleasant, modest, respectful …)
But the Cardinal women and Tiger men share a few things in common, starting with “it.”
It looks Like Mike Montgomery couldn't resist and is rumored to be the next head coach at Cal.
QB competition at USC
Examining the fall at Cal
Looking back at OSU
University of Arizona receivers are catching on.
ASU has their first scrimmage of the Spring
Spring practice in full swing in Eugene.
Monday, April 07, 2008
The Monday Morning Wash
The first scrimmage of the Spring is in the books and the Huskies have a few area's to be excitied about. One of the questions we asked as we started the Spring was whether a thumper would emerge in the secondary, and Victor Aiyewa seems to be answering that question in the affirmative. First hand observers feel that he adds a physical presence that hasn't been seen in awhile at the Safety position. The kid is making a move, and while he is probably third string on the depth chart if everyone is healthy don't expect that to be the case by the time Spring is done.
Tyrone Duncan moved ahead of Jovan O'Connor which is really no surprise, but if O'Connor had been able top hold on to the starting job for more than a week that would have been the biggest surprise of camp. O'Connor didn't play much at the scrimmage which means the 5th year senior hasn't been able to hold off the competition during the first week of practice. Cameron Elisara, and Darrion Jones are holding down the other two spots open for competition. Johnnie Kirtson is getting plenty of repos which means the Huskies are very serious about getting him on the field as a DL next Fall.
Players who were working as punt returners were Goodwin, Boyles, McDowell, Aguilar and Matt Mosley. Nathan thinks that Goodwin is a lock to be the man returning punts in the Fall. Most of us were hoping the Flea would get a shot at it last year.
Talking about D'Andre Goodwin....the two years of work learning the game at the Pac Ten level seems to have paid off because the people I have talked to who have been to practice feel he is probably going to be next years go to guy. It is still early, and all the young receivers have had their moments so far.
Most people figured that CB Vonzell McDowell's confidence may have been shot last year after starting in the frying pan and jumping into the fire to start the season. He had two interceptions on Saturday and is making asolid move for the starting job opposite Davenport this Spring. The key of course is experience. Once the game begins to slow down, and the experience kicks in they young guys make quantum leaps.
Brandon Johnson is pretty much a lock to be the starting TB next year, nothing he has done this Spring so far has altered that thinking. Chris Polk, and Curtis Shaw will get carries also as they share more of a hybrid slot/rb position which the Huskies hope to mold in the image of former Trojan Reggie Bush.
The offense is ahead of the defense right now, and that is to be expected with the a starting QB, exceptional, young, skill position talent, and a deep, veteran offensive line returning.
EJ, and JR are still running stairs. I would think that maybe on Tuesday we could see a change in their status, just a guess on that one.
Dorothy Harshman passes away
The wife of retired Husky basketball coach Marv Harshman passed away this weekend after suffering through health problems this past year. She was 86, and our thoughts and prayers go out to Marv, and his family.
Bobby Jones is seeing America First
The former Husky made NBA history this week by playing for the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday, his record fifth team this season. He also logged stints in Denver, Memphis, Houston and Miami earlier.
Husky Crew Pounds Out Victories in San Diego
San Diego used to be an annual stop for the nations top Crew programs, but for some reason the big boys have passed the Copley Cup over the past four years. This year was an exception was the top crews in the country including Washington, California, and Harvard took in the annual Spring event on Mission Bay.
Washington celebrated its return Sunday to the San Diego Crew Classic after a three-year absence by winning the feature races for both the men's and women's collegiate rowers.
Overall, four of the Huskies' six entries were victorious. The Huskies men won the Copley Cup for the 14th time (first time since 1998) by nearly two seconds. The women rebounded from an off showing in qualifying to take the Jessop-Whittier Cup for the 17th time — the first time since 2002.
More than 3,400 rowers from 100 colleges and clubs competed over a 2,000-meter course on Mission Bay in the 35th annual event regarded as the first major regatta of the year.
Big win for Bob Ernst in his first big competion back as head of the Womens team, but they won't see the best in the country till the championships in June. The men on the other hand cemeted themselves as the team to beat for the national championship despite the one year attrition of talent that is headed to work with national teams.
Copley Cup Men's Varsity Eight
1. Washington, 5:39.90
2. Princeton, 5:41.80
3. Harvard, 5:43.89
4. California, 5:44.15;
5. Northeastern, 5:44.18
6. Stanford, 5:44.38;
7. Yale, 5:47.37.
Jessop-Whittier Cup Women's Varsity Eight
1. Washington, 6:22.9
2. USC, 6:23.80;
3. Washington State, 6:26.10
4. Stanford, 6:29.27
5. UCLA, 6:29.38
6. Wisconsin, 6:32.24
Baseball team takes it to Arizona
Starting pitcher Jorden Merry allowed just one run over seven and one-third innings to lead the Washington baseball team to a 5-1 win over No. 18 Arizona Sunday at Husky Ballpark as the Huskies prevailed in a tightly-contested three-game series, two wins to one.
Softball
Seventh-ranked Stanford earned a split in a two-game series with No. 25 Washington after a 3-1 win on Sunday afternoon at Husky Softball Stadium.
Tennis
Patrick Fischer and Andy Kuharszky provided wins in singles but that was all the scoring for the 23rd-ranked Washington men's tennis team, as they dropped a 5-2 road decision to No. 22 Arizona State.
Freshman Venise Chan sent the Nordstrom Tennis Center crowd into elation today, prevailing in a gut-wrenching third set tiebreak at No. 1 singles to send the 49th-ranked Washington women's tennis team to a 4-3 upset of 12th-ranked Arizona State. The Huskies (12-8, 2-5 Pac-10) celebrated senior day with their first win over a Top-25 opponent in three years, and senior Tara Simpson contributed with wins in both singles and doubles.
Golf
Washington women's golf shot a final round score of 24-over 312 to finish 13th at the PING/ASU Invitational which came to a close at Arizona State's Karsten Golf Course, Sunday. Washington ended the 54-hole event at 53-over 917, finishing ahead of 23rd-ranked Stanford and 24th-ranked Vanderbilt which tied for 14th at 56-over 920. The Huskies opened the final day in a tie for 11th, just three shots out of the top-10, but UW wasn't able to duplicate its solid second round effort (7-over 295) during the last 18 holes.
With just two more regular season tournaments on tap, the Washington men's golf team heads to Columbia, Mo., for the first annual UMB Bank-Mizzou Tiger Intercollegiate Classic, Monday, April 7 through Tuesday, April 8.
Track and Field
Windy conditions made for a rough day across the board at the Pepsi Team Invitational, but the Washington men's and women's track and field teams still combined to post eight NCAA Regional qualifying marks, win five events, and set three new school Top-10 marks. The Huskies struggled to fourth-place finishes in both the men's and women's team standings, due mostly to a thin roster that left them unrepresented in several events, including all the relays. Oregon won the men's dual with the 10th-ranked Huskies, 230-125.5, and the UO women 192-78, although the 23rd-ranked Minnesota women's team came out on top among the foursome.
Tyrone Duncan moved ahead of Jovan O'Connor which is really no surprise, but if O'Connor had been able top hold on to the starting job for more than a week that would have been the biggest surprise of camp. O'Connor didn't play much at the scrimmage which means the 5th year senior hasn't been able to hold off the competition during the first week of practice. Cameron Elisara, and Darrion Jones are holding down the other two spots open for competition. Johnnie Kirtson is getting plenty of repos which means the Huskies are very serious about getting him on the field as a DL next Fall.
Players who were working as punt returners were Goodwin, Boyles, McDowell, Aguilar and Matt Mosley. Nathan thinks that Goodwin is a lock to be the man returning punts in the Fall. Most of us were hoping the Flea would get a shot at it last year.
Talking about D'Andre Goodwin....the two years of work learning the game at the Pac Ten level seems to have paid off because the people I have talked to who have been to practice feel he is probably going to be next years go to guy. It is still early, and all the young receivers have had their moments so far.
Most people figured that CB Vonzell McDowell's confidence may have been shot last year after starting in the frying pan and jumping into the fire to start the season. He had two interceptions on Saturday and is making asolid move for the starting job opposite Davenport this Spring. The key of course is experience. Once the game begins to slow down, and the experience kicks in they young guys make quantum leaps.
Brandon Johnson is pretty much a lock to be the starting TB next year, nothing he has done this Spring so far has altered that thinking. Chris Polk, and Curtis Shaw will get carries also as they share more of a hybrid slot/rb position which the Huskies hope to mold in the image of former Trojan Reggie Bush.
The offense is ahead of the defense right now, and that is to be expected with the a starting QB, exceptional, young, skill position talent, and a deep, veteran offensive line returning.
EJ, and JR are still running stairs. I would think that maybe on Tuesday we could see a change in their status, just a guess on that one.
Dorothy Harshman passes away
The wife of retired Husky basketball coach Marv Harshman passed away this weekend after suffering through health problems this past year. She was 86, and our thoughts and prayers go out to Marv, and his family.
Bobby Jones is seeing America First
The former Husky made NBA history this week by playing for the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday, his record fifth team this season. He also logged stints in Denver, Memphis, Houston and Miami earlier.
Husky Crew Pounds Out Victories in San Diego
San Diego used to be an annual stop for the nations top Crew programs, but for some reason the big boys have passed the Copley Cup over the past four years. This year was an exception was the top crews in the country including Washington, California, and Harvard took in the annual Spring event on Mission Bay.
Washington celebrated its return Sunday to the San Diego Crew Classic after a three-year absence by winning the feature races for both the men's and women's collegiate rowers.
Overall, four of the Huskies' six entries were victorious. The Huskies men won the Copley Cup for the 14th time (first time since 1998) by nearly two seconds. The women rebounded from an off showing in qualifying to take the Jessop-Whittier Cup for the 17th time — the first time since 2002.
More than 3,400 rowers from 100 colleges and clubs competed over a 2,000-meter course on Mission Bay in the 35th annual event regarded as the first major regatta of the year.
Big win for Bob Ernst in his first big competion back as head of the Womens team, but they won't see the best in the country till the championships in June. The men on the other hand cemeted themselves as the team to beat for the national championship despite the one year attrition of talent that is headed to work with national teams.
Copley Cup Men's Varsity Eight
1. Washington, 5:39.90
2. Princeton, 5:41.80
3. Harvard, 5:43.89
4. California, 5:44.15;
5. Northeastern, 5:44.18
6. Stanford, 5:44.38;
7. Yale, 5:47.37.
Jessop-Whittier Cup Women's Varsity Eight
1. Washington, 6:22.9
2. USC, 6:23.80;
3. Washington State, 6:26.10
4. Stanford, 6:29.27
5. UCLA, 6:29.38
6. Wisconsin, 6:32.24
Baseball team takes it to Arizona
Starting pitcher Jorden Merry allowed just one run over seven and one-third innings to lead the Washington baseball team to a 5-1 win over No. 18 Arizona Sunday at Husky Ballpark as the Huskies prevailed in a tightly-contested three-game series, two wins to one.
Softball
Seventh-ranked Stanford earned a split in a two-game series with No. 25 Washington after a 3-1 win on Sunday afternoon at Husky Softball Stadium.
Tennis
Patrick Fischer and Andy Kuharszky provided wins in singles but that was all the scoring for the 23rd-ranked Washington men's tennis team, as they dropped a 5-2 road decision to No. 22 Arizona State.
Freshman Venise Chan sent the Nordstrom Tennis Center crowd into elation today, prevailing in a gut-wrenching third set tiebreak at No. 1 singles to send the 49th-ranked Washington women's tennis team to a 4-3 upset of 12th-ranked Arizona State. The Huskies (12-8, 2-5 Pac-10) celebrated senior day with their first win over a Top-25 opponent in three years, and senior Tara Simpson contributed with wins in both singles and doubles.
Golf
Washington women's golf shot a final round score of 24-over 312 to finish 13th at the PING/ASU Invitational which came to a close at Arizona State's Karsten Golf Course, Sunday. Washington ended the 54-hole event at 53-over 917, finishing ahead of 23rd-ranked Stanford and 24th-ranked Vanderbilt which tied for 14th at 56-over 920. The Huskies opened the final day in a tie for 11th, just three shots out of the top-10, but UW wasn't able to duplicate its solid second round effort (7-over 295) during the last 18 holes.
With just two more regular season tournaments on tap, the Washington men's golf team heads to Columbia, Mo., for the first annual UMB Bank-Mizzou Tiger Intercollegiate Classic, Monday, April 7 through Tuesday, April 8.
Track and Field
Windy conditions made for a rough day across the board at the Pepsi Team Invitational, but the Washington men's and women's track and field teams still combined to post eight NCAA Regional qualifying marks, win five events, and set three new school Top-10 marks. The Huskies struggled to fourth-place finishes in both the men's and women's team standings, due mostly to a thin roster that left them unrepresented in several events, including all the relays. Oregon won the men's dual with the 10th-ranked Huskies, 230-125.5, and the UO women 192-78, although the 23rd-ranked Minnesota women's team came out on top among the foursome.
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Pac Ten Alley - Spring Practice Edition
The veil of silence is lifting at Montlake as Spring practice begins. JR Hasty and EJ Savannah both enter the Spring on double secret probation which means they have some extra work to do to satisfy Coach Willingham before they hit the field. Neither are officially kicked off the team, but it seems that they may not have adhered to the Winter conditioning program among other things. the door is open for both of them to participate once Willingham is pleased with their effort. As usual Ty isn't giving a lot of details.
Willingham said both could return to action at any time. They are not academically ineligible, but have not "lived up to their football responsibilities." That brings to mind the smart ass rhetorical question of when Willingham is going to do the same.
You really have to wonder what is going through JR Hasty's head at this point. He has been screwing up ever since he got here, and this Spring may have been his last chance to make an impact. EJ Savannah on the other hand is probably the most talented defensive player on the roster, you would hope that he would take a leadership position and get his work don e so he can get back out on the field.
Johnnie Kirton will indeed be here this Spring after spending some time studying in Africa this Winter. He has been officially moved to the defensive line for his senior year which should help fill some holes opened by graduation. Kirton should have been here all among IMHO. He only has one year left so it will be interesting to see if he can contribute at his new position. As far as TE goes the Huskies should be fine with Gottleib, Winter, Izbicki, and Middleton who comes in next Fall.
Freshman TB/WR Chris Polk is listed at the #1 slot back which would seem to indicate that he's progressing as well as expected. Starting guard Ryan Tolar will miss spring football because of an undisclosed injury situation, along with starting safety Jason Wells who we already knew was going to miss the spring session. Look for Scott Shugert to step up big time in Tolars absence.
Luke Kravitz, an experienced senior fullback, is listed fourth on the depth chart. Willingham said that is because Kravitz missed all of winter conditioning when he went to South Africa for the academic quarter. Willingham praised the decision to go abroad, but said when players miss significant time, they start over. Expect to see Kravitz back in the mix with Paul Homer at fullback by fall. Once again you have to wonder about the mixed messages that Willingham is bringing when he preaches academics, but then temporarily zings a stalwart guy who take advantage of the opportunity.
26 year old DB Tripper Johnson has joined the team as an invited walk on this Spring. Johnson prepped at Newport and has been banging around baseball's minor leagues ever since. Since he hasn't played the game in eight years it may be a big if if he can contribute. Keep an eye on him this Spring, inside sources say that he may surprise.
Pac Ten Alley
I am getting things out a little early this week because of a string of endless meetings on the road, but there is a lot going on in the Pac Ten this week.
Now it is time to take a walk down the coast to see what the neighbors are up to.
We start off this week with UCLA because they are back in the Final Four once again. The question is asked if they don't win it all this time will they be failures?
It was a topic of discussion two weeks ago, on and around Selection Sunday. If UCLA was to make it back to the Final Four for a third consecutive year, and lost, would it be branded a failure? Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, the only one of the Bruins who will start in the national semifinals three years in a row, said that he expects a different result this time around and if they don't bring home a 12th NCAA championship then, yes, this season will have been a loss. "Yeah, definitely," he said. "I personally feel that way and I know the rest of my teammates do, too. We've been there and we have the experience and everything. "Anything less than a national championship would be a failure for us again. And, you know UCLA, they definitely expect a national championship again. Anything less than that would be a failure for the season."
I thought Oregon was the best football team in the country till Dixon went down. this Spring is going to be all about finding a replacement at QB for the Ducks.
A year after trudging off into the woods for some profound soul-searching, the Oregon football team enters spring practice today in what it considers a positive state of mental health.
The Ducks contended for a national title most of last fall, ending up 9-4. A series of injuries, most notably to quarterback Dennis Dixon, derailed their dreams. But a three-game losing streak to close the regular season was overshadowed by a blowout Sun Bowl victory. Among the UO veterans, there is a solemn awareness of last season’s unattained goals. But that’s a far cry from the disappointment they felt a year ago at this time, having lost four straight in the fall of 2006 to finish 7-6, with an embarrassing loss in the Las Vegas Bowl.
Dispelling some myths about Cal football.
With spring ball here, I’d like to dispel a few of the biggest myths from the 2007 season in our attempt to move forward. I’ve had plenty of time to peruse various Cal sports forums on the Internet and have heard quite a few myths thrown around as truth. With that, let’s dig in…
Mike Montgomery on Cal short list?
Mike Montgomery hasn't coached college basketball in four years, yet he’s one of the hottest names in the country — and has been since he was dismissed by the Warriors 18 months ago.
With his name being linked to vacancy after vacancy, Montgomery has spent time as a TV analyst (he’s very good), assisting Stanford athletic director Bob Bowlsby, playing golf and collecting his Warrior paychecks (he was under contract through this spring).
A little spring football going on at USC.
The quarterback goes back and throws a pass, and Smith plucks the ball out of the air and runs into the end zone for a USC touchdown.Sound familiar? But no, this wasn't former Trojan Steve Smith catching a pass on offense. It's his little brother Malcolm Smith intercepting a pass from Aaron Corp during Thursday's spring practice. Malcolm isn't a wide receiver like his brother, but a 6-foot-2, 215-pound athletic linebacker. It is clear, however, that Malcolm, who could be called Steve's "big" little brother, has the instincts of Steve, who won two national titles at USC and finished his four-year collegiate career in 2006 as the school's top receiver.
Arizona has a lot of work to do this Spring.
The University of Arizona entered the 2007 season with 10 returning starters on defense.
That unit was supposed to be special, but was anything but, allowing 27 points and 372 yards per game. The Wildcats offense comes in returning 10 offensive starters. Arizona’s scoring woes should be no more. Think again.
Lute is back, could coach till 80, but Kevin O'Neill isn't waiting, he is moving on.
Lute Olson refused Tuesday to elaborate what caused him to take a leave of absence, but the 73-year-old Arizona basketball coach admitted he sought treatment for stress and anxiety. "I'm already going beyond what I was going to tell you," Olson said at a televised news conference. "That's a personal issue." But Olson did say his family doctor examined him last month, and said, "You're ready for whatever you want do do." Olson said he plans to coach at least until 2011, when his contract runs out, and said the school's verbal agreement with Kevin O'Neill to be Olson's successor has been tabled. "I asked him, if he wanted to be an assistant another three or five years, and Kevin said, no." Olson said the school would honor O'Neill's remaining year on his contract but that O'Neill would not be on the basketball staff next season.
At Stanford the Lopez Twins are headed to the NBA.
More than anything, what happened to Stanford in the Sweet 16 is what always happens to Stanford. The opponent turned up the intensity on both ends, and the Cardinal had no response.
Sometimes it happens in the opening minutes of the game, sometimes in the middle minutes of the second half, sometimes in the final minutes of the game. Sometimes it happens in the first round, sometimes in the second, occasionally in the Sweet 16, once in a while in the Elite Eight.
QB Danny Sullivan waiting for his chance at Arizona State behind Carpenter.
Danny Sullivan was fully committed to Arizona State from the start."I told my dad right before I came here my freshman year, I'm not going anywhere," said Sullivan, who comes from a family of athletes and coaches. "When you think about it, if you go somewhere, it's going to end up in a bad situation unless you're going I-AA. My thought process was wait it out, and your time is going to eventually come."The junior quarterback still feels that way, even though circumstances took away his chance to redshirt and could leave him with only one year of significant playing time.
Spring ball is winding up at WSU, do they practice in the snow over there? Tony Bennett turned down Indiana, but will he turn down LSU, or Cal?
Whatever the reason, it's a new week and spring ball is in the home stretch. While spring has been "OK", according to some, Wulff weighs in today in the Spokesman about how important this week really is. For a quick recap, here's where we are with one week left:
At Oregon State they only care about baseball this time of the year, so Jake from the Building the Dam Blog and I exchanged some baseball questions this past week. For the record I think the Beaver baseball program has been one of the brightest spots in Northwest sports the past couple of years.
John: How deep will the Beavers go this year, do they have the ability to get back into the CWS?
Jake: Well, it's hard to say. If you would have asked me that same question at the end of Pac-10 play last year I would have told you that they have a tough shot at making it to NCAA Regionals. They did that thanks to a series win against UCLA the last week of the season, and made it to Omaha unscathed. Whether they were truly the last team team into the field or not I don't know, but it was definitely a impressive feat to dominate Omaha after a less than impressive Pac-10 season. That said, OSU can definitely make it back to Omaha. They've got guys back from last season that played roles in the titles (Wong, Wallace, Hopkins, Lechelt, George, Lennerton, etc.), but they lose their key leaders (Darwin Barney and Mitch Canham). I can assure you that this team will improve as the season goes on and the weather gets better (they're already showing signs of this), and will make a run at the postseason.
John: Who is the best player on the Beaver roster?
I'm partial to Joey Wong, but there are plenty of talented players on this roster. Just looking at the pitching staff, Mike Stutes returns for his senior season after many expect him to go pro, Jorge Reyes, CWS MVP, returns, some other relief pitchers are back, and a bunch of talented newcomer's join the squad this year. Closer Kevin Rhoderick (96 mph fastball) will continue right where former OSU closers Kevin Gunderson and Eddie Kunz left off. As for the position players, there's Chris Hopkins returning for his senior season in center field, Joey Wong at short stop (he moved across the bag after Barney left), Jason Ogata who mostly DH's, transfer Daniel Robertson in right, John Wallace in left, and the list goes on. Every one of these players has the potential to be an MVP of any game. It depends what you're looking for in the best player on the roster, but I would probably go with the senior leadership in Stutes on the hill.
John : Is ASU the team to beat this season in the Pac Ten?
Jake: Absolutely. The Sun Devils are always going to put good clubs together, as they did this year. They're easily one of the best teams in the nation this year, and they were last year. Even though Oregon State won the National Championship, I don't truly believe that we had the best team. I would say that Arizona State's team was better, as they displayed in a series sweep in the Pac-10 season. But Oregon State had the benefit of getting things done when it mattered most, and the Beavers execution led to a 12-6 win against ASU in Omaha, one of the most surreal victories I've ever witnessed. That said, the Sun Devils took it to the Beavers in a pre-season game at the DeMarini Invitational this pre-season. Arizona State put up seven runs in the first inning, possibly some retribution for what happened at Rosenblatt last year. The Bears couldn't get a lick for the rest of the game, and went down by the score of 11-0.
John: How do you feel about Oregon restarting their baseball program, does it worry you, or will it be good healthy competition?
I know a lot of people have, but I really haven't thought about it that much. Obviously it's great for the game of baseball, but I feel bad for the UO wrestlers and the way the Ducks administration went about dismissing the wrestlers in favor of baseball. The thing that irks me is that their main motive for bringing it back is likely the fact that they want to tap into the Beavers success, and they aren't happy that their rivals are excelling in something they don't have. But once things get up and running, it will be nice to have an in-state rival.
Willingham said both could return to action at any time. They are not academically ineligible, but have not "lived up to their football responsibilities." That brings to mind the smart ass rhetorical question of when Willingham is going to do the same.
You really have to wonder what is going through JR Hasty's head at this point. He has been screwing up ever since he got here, and this Spring may have been his last chance to make an impact. EJ Savannah on the other hand is probably the most talented defensive player on the roster, you would hope that he would take a leadership position and get his work don e so he can get back out on the field.
Johnnie Kirton will indeed be here this Spring after spending some time studying in Africa this Winter. He has been officially moved to the defensive line for his senior year which should help fill some holes opened by graduation. Kirton should have been here all among IMHO. He only has one year left so it will be interesting to see if he can contribute at his new position. As far as TE goes the Huskies should be fine with Gottleib, Winter, Izbicki, and Middleton who comes in next Fall.
Freshman TB/WR Chris Polk is listed at the #1 slot back which would seem to indicate that he's progressing as well as expected. Starting guard Ryan Tolar will miss spring football because of an undisclosed injury situation, along with starting safety Jason Wells who we already knew was going to miss the spring session. Look for Scott Shugert to step up big time in Tolars absence.
Luke Kravitz, an experienced senior fullback, is listed fourth on the depth chart. Willingham said that is because Kravitz missed all of winter conditioning when he went to South Africa for the academic quarter. Willingham praised the decision to go abroad, but said when players miss significant time, they start over. Expect to see Kravitz back in the mix with Paul Homer at fullback by fall. Once again you have to wonder about the mixed messages that Willingham is bringing when he preaches academics, but then temporarily zings a stalwart guy who take advantage of the opportunity.
26 year old DB Tripper Johnson has joined the team as an invited walk on this Spring. Johnson prepped at Newport and has been banging around baseball's minor leagues ever since. Since he hasn't played the game in eight years it may be a big if if he can contribute. Keep an eye on him this Spring, inside sources say that he may surprise.
Pac Ten Alley
I am getting things out a little early this week because of a string of endless meetings on the road, but there is a lot going on in the Pac Ten this week.
Now it is time to take a walk down the coast to see what the neighbors are up to.
We start off this week with UCLA because they are back in the Final Four once again. The question is asked if they don't win it all this time will they be failures?
It was a topic of discussion two weeks ago, on and around Selection Sunday. If UCLA was to make it back to the Final Four for a third consecutive year, and lost, would it be branded a failure? Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, the only one of the Bruins who will start in the national semifinals three years in a row, said that he expects a different result this time around and if they don't bring home a 12th NCAA championship then, yes, this season will have been a loss. "Yeah, definitely," he said. "I personally feel that way and I know the rest of my teammates do, too. We've been there and we have the experience and everything. "Anything less than a national championship would be a failure for us again. And, you know UCLA, they definitely expect a national championship again. Anything less than that would be a failure for the season."
I thought Oregon was the best football team in the country till Dixon went down. this Spring is going to be all about finding a replacement at QB for the Ducks.
A year after trudging off into the woods for some profound soul-searching, the Oregon football team enters spring practice today in what it considers a positive state of mental health.
The Ducks contended for a national title most of last fall, ending up 9-4. A series of injuries, most notably to quarterback Dennis Dixon, derailed their dreams. But a three-game losing streak to close the regular season was overshadowed by a blowout Sun Bowl victory. Among the UO veterans, there is a solemn awareness of last season’s unattained goals. But that’s a far cry from the disappointment they felt a year ago at this time, having lost four straight in the fall of 2006 to finish 7-6, with an embarrassing loss in the Las Vegas Bowl.
Dispelling some myths about Cal football.
With spring ball here, I’d like to dispel a few of the biggest myths from the 2007 season in our attempt to move forward. I’ve had plenty of time to peruse various Cal sports forums on the Internet and have heard quite a few myths thrown around as truth. With that, let’s dig in…
Mike Montgomery on Cal short list?
Mike Montgomery hasn't coached college basketball in four years, yet he’s one of the hottest names in the country — and has been since he was dismissed by the Warriors 18 months ago.
With his name being linked to vacancy after vacancy, Montgomery has spent time as a TV analyst (he’s very good), assisting Stanford athletic director Bob Bowlsby, playing golf and collecting his Warrior paychecks (he was under contract through this spring).
A little spring football going on at USC.
The quarterback goes back and throws a pass, and Smith plucks the ball out of the air and runs into the end zone for a USC touchdown.Sound familiar? But no, this wasn't former Trojan Steve Smith catching a pass on offense. It's his little brother Malcolm Smith intercepting a pass from Aaron Corp during Thursday's spring practice. Malcolm isn't a wide receiver like his brother, but a 6-foot-2, 215-pound athletic linebacker. It is clear, however, that Malcolm, who could be called Steve's "big" little brother, has the instincts of Steve, who won two national titles at USC and finished his four-year collegiate career in 2006 as the school's top receiver.
Arizona has a lot of work to do this Spring.
The University of Arizona entered the 2007 season with 10 returning starters on defense.
That unit was supposed to be special, but was anything but, allowing 27 points and 372 yards per game. The Wildcats offense comes in returning 10 offensive starters. Arizona’s scoring woes should be no more. Think again.
Lute is back, could coach till 80, but Kevin O'Neill isn't waiting, he is moving on.
Lute Olson refused Tuesday to elaborate what caused him to take a leave of absence, but the 73-year-old Arizona basketball coach admitted he sought treatment for stress and anxiety. "I'm already going beyond what I was going to tell you," Olson said at a televised news conference. "That's a personal issue." But Olson did say his family doctor examined him last month, and said, "You're ready for whatever you want do do." Olson said he plans to coach at least until 2011, when his contract runs out, and said the school's verbal agreement with Kevin O'Neill to be Olson's successor has been tabled. "I asked him, if he wanted to be an assistant another three or five years, and Kevin said, no." Olson said the school would honor O'Neill's remaining year on his contract but that O'Neill would not be on the basketball staff next season.
At Stanford the Lopez Twins are headed to the NBA.
More than anything, what happened to Stanford in the Sweet 16 is what always happens to Stanford. The opponent turned up the intensity on both ends, and the Cardinal had no response.
Sometimes it happens in the opening minutes of the game, sometimes in the middle minutes of the second half, sometimes in the final minutes of the game. Sometimes it happens in the first round, sometimes in the second, occasionally in the Sweet 16, once in a while in the Elite Eight.
QB Danny Sullivan waiting for his chance at Arizona State behind Carpenter.
Danny Sullivan was fully committed to Arizona State from the start."I told my dad right before I came here my freshman year, I'm not going anywhere," said Sullivan, who comes from a family of athletes and coaches. "When you think about it, if you go somewhere, it's going to end up in a bad situation unless you're going I-AA. My thought process was wait it out, and your time is going to eventually come."The junior quarterback still feels that way, even though circumstances took away his chance to redshirt and could leave him with only one year of significant playing time.
Spring ball is winding up at WSU, do they practice in the snow over there? Tony Bennett turned down Indiana, but will he turn down LSU, or Cal?
Whatever the reason, it's a new week and spring ball is in the home stretch. While spring has been "OK", according to some, Wulff weighs in today in the Spokesman about how important this week really is. For a quick recap, here's where we are with one week left:
At Oregon State they only care about baseball this time of the year, so Jake from the Building the Dam Blog and I exchanged some baseball questions this past week. For the record I think the Beaver baseball program has been one of the brightest spots in Northwest sports the past couple of years.
John: How deep will the Beavers go this year, do they have the ability to get back into the CWS?
Jake: Well, it's hard to say. If you would have asked me that same question at the end of Pac-10 play last year I would have told you that they have a tough shot at making it to NCAA Regionals. They did that thanks to a series win against UCLA the last week of the season, and made it to Omaha unscathed. Whether they were truly the last team team into the field or not I don't know, but it was definitely a impressive feat to dominate Omaha after a less than impressive Pac-10 season. That said, OSU can definitely make it back to Omaha. They've got guys back from last season that played roles in the titles (Wong, Wallace, Hopkins, Lechelt, George, Lennerton, etc.), but they lose their key leaders (Darwin Barney and Mitch Canham). I can assure you that this team will improve as the season goes on and the weather gets better (they're already showing signs of this), and will make a run at the postseason.
John: Who is the best player on the Beaver roster?
I'm partial to Joey Wong, but there are plenty of talented players on this roster. Just looking at the pitching staff, Mike Stutes returns for his senior season after many expect him to go pro, Jorge Reyes, CWS MVP, returns, some other relief pitchers are back, and a bunch of talented newcomer's join the squad this year. Closer Kevin Rhoderick (96 mph fastball) will continue right where former OSU closers Kevin Gunderson and Eddie Kunz left off. As for the position players, there's Chris Hopkins returning for his senior season in center field, Joey Wong at short stop (he moved across the bag after Barney left), Jason Ogata who mostly DH's, transfer Daniel Robertson in right, John Wallace in left, and the list goes on. Every one of these players has the potential to be an MVP of any game. It depends what you're looking for in the best player on the roster, but I would probably go with the senior leadership in Stutes on the hill.
John : Is ASU the team to beat this season in the Pac Ten?
Jake: Absolutely. The Sun Devils are always going to put good clubs together, as they did this year. They're easily one of the best teams in the nation this year, and they were last year. Even though Oregon State won the National Championship, I don't truly believe that we had the best team. I would say that Arizona State's team was better, as they displayed in a series sweep in the Pac-10 season. But Oregon State had the benefit of getting things done when it mattered most, and the Beavers execution led to a 12-6 win against ASU in Omaha, one of the most surreal victories I've ever witnessed. That said, the Sun Devils took it to the Beavers in a pre-season game at the DeMarini Invitational this pre-season. Arizona State put up seven runs in the first inning, possibly some retribution for what happened at Rosenblatt last year. The Bears couldn't get a lick for the rest of the game, and went down by the score of 11-0.
John: How do you feel about Oregon restarting their baseball program, does it worry you, or will it be good healthy competition?
I know a lot of people have, but I really haven't thought about it that much. Obviously it's great for the game of baseball, but I feel bad for the UO wrestlers and the way the Ducks administration went about dismissing the wrestlers in favor of baseball. The thing that irks me is that their main motive for bringing it back is likely the fact that they want to tap into the Beavers success, and they aren't happy that their rivals are excelling in something they don't have. But once things get up and running, it will be nice to have an in-state rival.
Monday, March 31, 2008
The Monday Morning Wash
Spring is once again in the air and there is a flurry of Spring sports activity going on over at Montlake. Not much news about football this past week, but that will soon change since Spring practice is about to get under way.
The Husky football team has a lot of new faces on the coaching staff, and hopefully that will help the defense rebound from the most dismal season in modern football history. On the offensive side of the ball most can't wait to see if Jake Locker is an improved passer. The game will obviously slow down for him this year, and while he will be throwing to a WR crew with little experience the talent level at that position is making a quantum leap. Keep an eye on newcomers Chris Polk, Anthony Boyles, and Devin Aguilar.
At RB with Rankin gone, the inside track on the starting tailback spot would logically fall to sophomore Brandon Johnson, who was Rankin's backup last year and is the most experienced tailback on the roster. Johnson showed a convincing flash of what he's capable of when he ran for 121 yards on 23 carries last season vs. California. The only other tailback on the team is fourth-year junior J.R. Hasty, who carried the ball six times last season. Two other tailbacks who redshirted the 2007 season will be given every chance to fight for playing time -- Willie Griffin and Brandon Yakaboski. For Hasty it is definitely do or die time, and it will take an eye opening performance this Fall to get him out of Ty's doghouse.
We all want to see improvement at TE. Gottleib should continue to improve as a blocker, but Izbicki should begin to challenge for the starting job after a year in the weight room. He just has more natural tools than the other guys. Johnnie Kirton will be studying in South Africa, so he will be missing Spring drills. We all of course are waiting for Kavario Middleton to arrive this fall.
The offensive line should continue to improve. By this Fall the Huskies should be close to where they need to be as far as depth, and experience go. They will be a little green behind the starting tackles as Fancher, and Armelin are only redshirts, so you hope that Habben, and Ossai can keep healthy. On the inside Garcia, Tolar, Bulyca, White-Frisbee, Shugert, Sedillo, and Rosborough match up well with great Husky lines of the past. Keep an eye on Shugert, he is a future star, and the future isn't that far away. garcia should be the best center on the coast.
The bad news on the defensive side of the ball is the Huskies have to rebuild the defensive line. The good news of course is they are rebuilding perhaps the worst performing defensive line in the history of the school. Daniel Teo Nesheim is the only sure starter, all the other spots are up for grabs. The big question is whether Washington will go with a three man, or four man line? New DC Ed Donatell doesn't know for sure yet, but hints it will depend on the situation. He should have a better idea of what is going on after he evaluates the talent this Spring.
The LB's should be solid, and they represent one of the most experienced areas of the team. The question with these guys is health. They were walking wounded last year and it hindered their performance. Keep an eye on their health this Spring, I think that will be the key to their success.
The DB's lose some talent, but have a lot of new talent coming in the Spring and Fall. Wells will sit out the Spring rehabbing his knee, but will be back this Fall. Harris, and Forrester provide solid depth, and experience. That being said the improvement at the position will come if the young guys like Aiyewa, and Williams push the veterans to the side this Spring.
At CB Davenport will be the starter on one side with a free for all fight for the other side. Quinton Richardson is moving over from Safety, and if he breaks into the lineup the experiment could be a big deal because he can be an extra force shutting down the run. Going into Spring Murchison, McDowell, and Mosley have the most experience, and all three will get long looks.
Husky Crew
Crew season opened up this season with the annual Class Day Regatta on the Montlake Cut.
Expect quite a bit of improvement now that Bob Ernst has taken back over the reigns of the women's program. Before taking over the men's program he was the elite women's rowing coach in the country. Make no mistake that his impact will still be felt on both squads since he still is the director of the entire rowing program.
The junior class won the women's featured race and the freshmen boat ended up on top of a closely contested men's race, Saturday, as the Washington rowing team opened its 2008 racing season with the 107th-annual Class Day Regatta on the Montlake Cut.
The featured men's race included many lead changes between the juniors, sophomores and freshmen, but it was ultimately the freshmen boat that took the lead in the third 500 meters and held on to capture the George M. Varnell trophy. The freshmen crew won the race in 6:04.74, edging the sophomores (6:08.08) and seniors (6:09.65). The juniors finished in 6:12.25.
It marked the second time in three years the freshmen have won the men's race, as they also took home the Varnell trophy in 2006 - a season that saw those same freshmen win the IRA Championship. Prior to that 2006 triumph, a freshman crew had not won the UW men's Class Day race since 1947.
Baseball
The Husky baseball squad has started off the season as one of the hottest teams in the country reeling off eleven straight wins, but that came to a dramatic stop this weekend as powerhouse Oregon State swept the Pac Ten opening doubleheader in Corvallis.
Chris Hopkins' 10th-inning single drove in John Wallace with the winning run as Oregon State swept a doubleheader from the Washington baseball team with a 2-1 win in the nightcap Saturday at Goss Stadium. In the first game of the doubleheader, Oregon State handed the UW an 8-1 loss to break the Huskies' 11-game winning streak. Washington finished the day 16-8 overall and 0-2 in the Pac-10. OSU improved to 13-7 and 2-0.
Softball
Aleah Macon struck out 10 Oregon State batters to lead No. 23 Washington to a 1-0 win in the Huskies Pac-10 Conference opener on Saturday afternoon at Husky Softball Stadium.
Macon held the Beavers to three hits and finished with her sixth double-digit strikeout performance of the season to improve to 11-4. It was her fourth shutout and 11th complete-game of the season. Washington (22-9-1, 1-0 Pac-10) scored its only run in the third inning on an RBI-single by Morgan Stuart. With two outs, Jace Williams hit a ground rule double to left field and then came home to score when Stuart blooped a single into right field over the head of OSU first baseman DeAnn Young.
Gymnastics
The Washington women's gymnastics team battled back from a rocky start on balance beam, turning in some of their best performances on floor and uneven bars to place sixth at the Pac-10 Championships which the Huskies hosted at Bank of America Arena.
Golf
Washington men's golf shot a final round score of 9-over 297 to finish in sixth place at the 20th annual Oregon Duck Invitational held at the Emerald Valley Golf Club in Creswell, Oregon. Washington women's golf shot a final-round score of 20-over 308 to place fourth at the Oregon Duck Invitational at the Eugene Country Club in Eugene, Ore., Tuesday.
Track and Field
Eight Washington athletes were selected to the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships today by the NCAA Division I Track and Field Committee. Three Husky men and five women will travel to Fayetteville, Arkansas for the championships this Friday-Saturday, Mar. 14-15.
The Washington track and field team picked an unfortunate day to make their outdoor season debut, but persevered through the soggy, cold conditions to complete the UW Outdoor Preview, one of just two meets at Husky Stadium this year. Given the strong winds and steady mix of rain and snow, fast times were hard to come by in the meet which featured a collection of local small colleges and club teams. Still, many Huskies got off to solid starts under the stadium lights. Washington's men are ranked ninth to open the outdoor season after placing 10th at the NCAA Indoor Championships two weeks ago. Several of the top Husky distance runners competed in the 1500-meters, with sophomore Kelly Spady just beating out junior Jake Schmitt for the win in a time of 3:55.84. Freshman Charlie Williams and redshirt freshman Riley Booker were third and fourth, respectively
The Husky women welcomed back senior Amy Lia to active duty, as she competed in the 800-meters, placing fifth in 2:22.66 in what was clearly a tune-up for the 2006 NCAA 1500-meter champion. Lia missed the majority of the 2007 season with injury and also was unable to run during cross country season. Lia ran second for much of the race but held back when Oregon State's Sylvia Veal made a kick to pull away and win. Sophomore Mo Huber ran a strong 1500-meters, placing second to OSU's Noelle Harer in 4:41.04, and freshman Kenna Patrick was third out of 29 runner in the 3000-meters, running 10:13.28. Junior multi-event specialist Liz Fuller won the 100m hurdles in a strong head wind, and Allison Lombardo cleared 5-2 ¼ to win the high jump.
Tennis
The 20th-ranked Husky men's tennis team was dealt a 6-1 defeat by No. 4 USC today at the Nordstrom Tennis Center, dropping the Huskies to 12-6 and 0-2 in Pac-10 play. Senior Andy Kuharszky upset 54th-ranked Gary Sacks for Washington's only point this afternoon.
The 35th-ranked Washington women's tennis team closed out its non-conference schedule with a 7-0 loss to 29th-ranked Michigan today at the Varsity Tennis Center. The Huskies (10-8, 0-5 Pac-10) were playing their third road match in four days.
The Husky football team has a lot of new faces on the coaching staff, and hopefully that will help the defense rebound from the most dismal season in modern football history. On the offensive side of the ball most can't wait to see if Jake Locker is an improved passer. The game will obviously slow down for him this year, and while he will be throwing to a WR crew with little experience the talent level at that position is making a quantum leap. Keep an eye on newcomers Chris Polk, Anthony Boyles, and Devin Aguilar.
At RB with Rankin gone, the inside track on the starting tailback spot would logically fall to sophomore Brandon Johnson, who was Rankin's backup last year and is the most experienced tailback on the roster. Johnson showed a convincing flash of what he's capable of when he ran for 121 yards on 23 carries last season vs. California. The only other tailback on the team is fourth-year junior J.R. Hasty, who carried the ball six times last season. Two other tailbacks who redshirted the 2007 season will be given every chance to fight for playing time -- Willie Griffin and Brandon Yakaboski. For Hasty it is definitely do or die time, and it will take an eye opening performance this Fall to get him out of Ty's doghouse.
We all want to see improvement at TE. Gottleib should continue to improve as a blocker, but Izbicki should begin to challenge for the starting job after a year in the weight room. He just has more natural tools than the other guys. Johnnie Kirton will be studying in South Africa, so he will be missing Spring drills. We all of course are waiting for Kavario Middleton to arrive this fall.
The offensive line should continue to improve. By this Fall the Huskies should be close to where they need to be as far as depth, and experience go. They will be a little green behind the starting tackles as Fancher, and Armelin are only redshirts, so you hope that Habben, and Ossai can keep healthy. On the inside Garcia, Tolar, Bulyca, White-Frisbee, Shugert, Sedillo, and Rosborough match up well with great Husky lines of the past. Keep an eye on Shugert, he is a future star, and the future isn't that far away. garcia should be the best center on the coast.
The bad news on the defensive side of the ball is the Huskies have to rebuild the defensive line. The good news of course is they are rebuilding perhaps the worst performing defensive line in the history of the school. Daniel Teo Nesheim is the only sure starter, all the other spots are up for grabs. The big question is whether Washington will go with a three man, or four man line? New DC Ed Donatell doesn't know for sure yet, but hints it will depend on the situation. He should have a better idea of what is going on after he evaluates the talent this Spring.
The LB's should be solid, and they represent one of the most experienced areas of the team. The question with these guys is health. They were walking wounded last year and it hindered their performance. Keep an eye on their health this Spring, I think that will be the key to their success.
The DB's lose some talent, but have a lot of new talent coming in the Spring and Fall. Wells will sit out the Spring rehabbing his knee, but will be back this Fall. Harris, and Forrester provide solid depth, and experience. That being said the improvement at the position will come if the young guys like Aiyewa, and Williams push the veterans to the side this Spring.
At CB Davenport will be the starter on one side with a free for all fight for the other side. Quinton Richardson is moving over from Safety, and if he breaks into the lineup the experiment could be a big deal because he can be an extra force shutting down the run. Going into Spring Murchison, McDowell, and Mosley have the most experience, and all three will get long looks.
Husky Crew
Crew season opened up this season with the annual Class Day Regatta on the Montlake Cut.
Expect quite a bit of improvement now that Bob Ernst has taken back over the reigns of the women's program. Before taking over the men's program he was the elite women's rowing coach in the country. Make no mistake that his impact will still be felt on both squads since he still is the director of the entire rowing program.
The junior class won the women's featured race and the freshmen boat ended up on top of a closely contested men's race, Saturday, as the Washington rowing team opened its 2008 racing season with the 107th-annual Class Day Regatta on the Montlake Cut.
The featured men's race included many lead changes between the juniors, sophomores and freshmen, but it was ultimately the freshmen boat that took the lead in the third 500 meters and held on to capture the George M. Varnell trophy. The freshmen crew won the race in 6:04.74, edging the sophomores (6:08.08) and seniors (6:09.65). The juniors finished in 6:12.25.
It marked the second time in three years the freshmen have won the men's race, as they also took home the Varnell trophy in 2006 - a season that saw those same freshmen win the IRA Championship. Prior to that 2006 triumph, a freshman crew had not won the UW men's Class Day race since 1947.
Baseball
The Husky baseball squad has started off the season as one of the hottest teams in the country reeling off eleven straight wins, but that came to a dramatic stop this weekend as powerhouse Oregon State swept the Pac Ten opening doubleheader in Corvallis.
Chris Hopkins' 10th-inning single drove in John Wallace with the winning run as Oregon State swept a doubleheader from the Washington baseball team with a 2-1 win in the nightcap Saturday at Goss Stadium. In the first game of the doubleheader, Oregon State handed the UW an 8-1 loss to break the Huskies' 11-game winning streak. Washington finished the day 16-8 overall and 0-2 in the Pac-10. OSU improved to 13-7 and 2-0.
Softball
Aleah Macon struck out 10 Oregon State batters to lead No. 23 Washington to a 1-0 win in the Huskies Pac-10 Conference opener on Saturday afternoon at Husky Softball Stadium.
Macon held the Beavers to three hits and finished with her sixth double-digit strikeout performance of the season to improve to 11-4. It was her fourth shutout and 11th complete-game of the season. Washington (22-9-1, 1-0 Pac-10) scored its only run in the third inning on an RBI-single by Morgan Stuart. With two outs, Jace Williams hit a ground rule double to left field and then came home to score when Stuart blooped a single into right field over the head of OSU first baseman DeAnn Young.
Gymnastics
The Washington women's gymnastics team battled back from a rocky start on balance beam, turning in some of their best performances on floor and uneven bars to place sixth at the Pac-10 Championships which the Huskies hosted at Bank of America Arena.
Golf
Washington men's golf shot a final round score of 9-over 297 to finish in sixth place at the 20th annual Oregon Duck Invitational held at the Emerald Valley Golf Club in Creswell, Oregon. Washington women's golf shot a final-round score of 20-over 308 to place fourth at the Oregon Duck Invitational at the Eugene Country Club in Eugene, Ore., Tuesday.
Track and Field
Eight Washington athletes were selected to the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships today by the NCAA Division I Track and Field Committee. Three Husky men and five women will travel to Fayetteville, Arkansas for the championships this Friday-Saturday, Mar. 14-15.
The Washington track and field team picked an unfortunate day to make their outdoor season debut, but persevered through the soggy, cold conditions to complete the UW Outdoor Preview, one of just two meets at Husky Stadium this year. Given the strong winds and steady mix of rain and snow, fast times were hard to come by in the meet which featured a collection of local small colleges and club teams. Still, many Huskies got off to solid starts under the stadium lights. Washington's men are ranked ninth to open the outdoor season after placing 10th at the NCAA Indoor Championships two weeks ago. Several of the top Husky distance runners competed in the 1500-meters, with sophomore Kelly Spady just beating out junior Jake Schmitt for the win in a time of 3:55.84. Freshman Charlie Williams and redshirt freshman Riley Booker were third and fourth, respectively
The Husky women welcomed back senior Amy Lia to active duty, as she competed in the 800-meters, placing fifth in 2:22.66 in what was clearly a tune-up for the 2006 NCAA 1500-meter champion. Lia missed the majority of the 2007 season with injury and also was unable to run during cross country season. Lia ran second for much of the race but held back when Oregon State's Sylvia Veal made a kick to pull away and win. Sophomore Mo Huber ran a strong 1500-meters, placing second to OSU's Noelle Harer in 4:41.04, and freshman Kenna Patrick was third out of 29 runner in the 3000-meters, running 10:13.28. Junior multi-event specialist Liz Fuller won the 100m hurdles in a strong head wind, and Allison Lombardo cleared 5-2 ¼ to win the high jump.
Tennis
The 20th-ranked Husky men's tennis team was dealt a 6-1 defeat by No. 4 USC today at the Nordstrom Tennis Center, dropping the Huskies to 12-6 and 0-2 in Pac-10 play. Senior Andy Kuharszky upset 54th-ranked Gary Sacks for Washington's only point this afternoon.
The 35th-ranked Washington women's tennis team closed out its non-conference schedule with a 7-0 loss to 29th-ranked Michigan today at the Varsity Tennis Center. The Huskies (10-8, 0-5 Pac-10) were playing their third road match in four days.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Pac Ten Alley
We only have eight days till Spring practice opens at Washington and nothing has been announced to the media as far as fan, and media access goes. There had been word that interim Scott Woodward wants to open things up this spring, but Willingham obviously isn't in favor of doing that. There will likely be a couple of days open to fans in addition to the Spring game.
Most spring practices across the country are open because it really doesn't matter, and in the case of a 4-9 football team it doesn't matter at all. Opening spring practice is a great promotion tool, but we probably won't see it till we get a new coach. Once again i was hoping we would see a new Ty this Spring, but if it is going to happen it has not emerged yet.
Pac Ten Alley
It is time to walk down the coast to see what the neighbors are up to.
Oregon was bounced out of the tournament early, and Ernie Kent could be gone if Mark Few has interest in Oregon.
Malik Hairston scored 22 points followed by Tajuan Porter with 18 and Maarty Leunen's 13. But it wasn't enough to stop Charles Rhode's career high 34 points and the Bulldogs went on to end the Ducks season. As happened so often this year, Oregon controlled the first half but failed to seal the deal in the second. Early in the 2nd half Oregon led by 13 points but couldn't buy a basket for the last 15 minutes of the game. The question now is, can Ernie keep his job? There is a lot of talk about his future with Oregon. Time will tell. Five months until football.
Trent Johnson is taking the Cardinal deep this year, but the Bay Area media aren't exactly in love with him.
Much as he wants it to be a non-story — and he really, really really wants it to be a non-story — Trent Johnson’s ejection from the Marquette game has not faded into the background.
A coach getting tossed from an NCAA tournament game happens so rarely, and it feels so un-Stanford, that it’s a story. (It would be a much bigger story if the Cardinal had lost.)
Spring football starts earlier in Arizona than in most places.
The University of Arizona football team came back from spring break a little tired and some maybe with a little sun burn, but that didn’t matter as they were in pads working out on Monday. There was no breaking in point as the Wildcats went through their fifth official practice of spring (out of the allotted 15).“We had a good long practice. We were a little rusty offensively with the break,” UA coach Mike Stoops said. “We will get our timing back offensively.”
James Montgomery isn't coming to Washington, and he just might find out that a lot of big time programs won't be interested in him the second time around.
The Bay Area might be a nice place for some people, but it wasn't for James Montgomery. That was why Montgomery, one of the Sacramento area's most recruited athletes while at Cordova High School, decided to leave the Cal football program even though he was projected to be a starter this fall. "Berkeley is not the most normal place in the world," he said in a phone interview Thursday. "Coming from Sacramento, I just didn't like the surroundings. I pretty much didn't like the Bay Area." Since his official release from Cal on Monday, rumors circulated that he left because of a dispute with Bears' coach Jeff Tedford over playing time. Montgomery said that was not true.
Baseball season in Corvallis.
Following a three game series with Pepperdine, the Beavers headed to Provo, Utah for a mid-week series to tune up for Pac-10 play, which starts this Friday. The Beaver offense was alive for practically the whole game, as Oregon State used fifteen hits to beat BYU by the score of 15-7.
All three quarterbacks got reps with the first team today in practice and offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian said he wants to name a starter by the end of spring while Pete Carroll said he does not have a timetable.``Right now, I’m not worried about figuring it out,’’ Carroll said. ``Right now, we have a lot of information on Mark (Sanchez) and a little on the other guys. The kids are physically able. It’s who knows the system and can execute.’’
ASU was snubbed by the NCAA but they have made the most of it in the NIT, until losing to Florida on Tuesday by 13,
Walter Hodge scored 18 points and Chandler Parsons added 15, and Florida defeated Arizona State 70-57 on Tuesday night in the NIT quarterfinals.
Expect UCLA to roll towards the Final Four.
I don’t know about you but the Wednesday before Sweet-16 is always the toughest hump day of the year. The Pac-10 season with its slate of Thursday/Fri-Sat games gets us in rhythm for the tournament season. However, around this time of the season when Wednesday rolls around, I feel like I have had enough of my share of stories, articles, analysis etc, and just want to get started with the game. And with that note let’s start with today’s roundup. The most important item on our plate is LRMAM’s health. According to Coach Howland an MRI on Luc’s left ankle this week showed ‘no damage’:
I am picking WSU over North Carolina because despite the talent advantage the Heel's are not used to playing against the WSU's deliberate style.
With our biggest hoops game since the 1941 NCAA title game coming up Thursday, the experts are coming out of the woodwork to pick North Carolina. Dickie V, Digger, you know the usual suspects. I haven't seen any projections yet that say we will be blown out of the basketball universe, and everyone expects it to be a bit of a grind for the Heels, but in the end they'll be 8-10 points better. What, did you expect that anyone would actually pick WSU this week??
Most spring practices across the country are open because it really doesn't matter, and in the case of a 4-9 football team it doesn't matter at all. Opening spring practice is a great promotion tool, but we probably won't see it till we get a new coach. Once again i was hoping we would see a new Ty this Spring, but if it is going to happen it has not emerged yet.
Pac Ten Alley
It is time to walk down the coast to see what the neighbors are up to.
Oregon was bounced out of the tournament early, and Ernie Kent could be gone if Mark Few has interest in Oregon.
Malik Hairston scored 22 points followed by Tajuan Porter with 18 and Maarty Leunen's 13. But it wasn't enough to stop Charles Rhode's career high 34 points and the Bulldogs went on to end the Ducks season. As happened so often this year, Oregon controlled the first half but failed to seal the deal in the second. Early in the 2nd half Oregon led by 13 points but couldn't buy a basket for the last 15 minutes of the game. The question now is, can Ernie keep his job? There is a lot of talk about his future with Oregon. Time will tell. Five months until football.
Trent Johnson is taking the Cardinal deep this year, but the Bay Area media aren't exactly in love with him.
Much as he wants it to be a non-story — and he really, really really wants it to be a non-story — Trent Johnson’s ejection from the Marquette game has not faded into the background.
A coach getting tossed from an NCAA tournament game happens so rarely, and it feels so un-Stanford, that it’s a story. (It would be a much bigger story if the Cardinal had lost.)
Spring football starts earlier in Arizona than in most places.
The University of Arizona football team came back from spring break a little tired and some maybe with a little sun burn, but that didn’t matter as they were in pads working out on Monday. There was no breaking in point as the Wildcats went through their fifth official practice of spring (out of the allotted 15).“We had a good long practice. We were a little rusty offensively with the break,” UA coach Mike Stoops said. “We will get our timing back offensively.”
James Montgomery isn't coming to Washington, and he just might find out that a lot of big time programs won't be interested in him the second time around.
The Bay Area might be a nice place for some people, but it wasn't for James Montgomery. That was why Montgomery, one of the Sacramento area's most recruited athletes while at Cordova High School, decided to leave the Cal football program even though he was projected to be a starter this fall. "Berkeley is not the most normal place in the world," he said in a phone interview Thursday. "Coming from Sacramento, I just didn't like the surroundings. I pretty much didn't like the Bay Area." Since his official release from Cal on Monday, rumors circulated that he left because of a dispute with Bears' coach Jeff Tedford over playing time. Montgomery said that was not true.
Baseball season in Corvallis.
Following a three game series with Pepperdine, the Beavers headed to Provo, Utah for a mid-week series to tune up for Pac-10 play, which starts this Friday. The Beaver offense was alive for practically the whole game, as Oregon State used fifteen hits to beat BYU by the score of 15-7.
All three quarterbacks got reps with the first team today in practice and offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian said he wants to name a starter by the end of spring while Pete Carroll said he does not have a timetable.``Right now, I’m not worried about figuring it out,’’ Carroll said. ``Right now, we have a lot of information on Mark (Sanchez) and a little on the other guys. The kids are physically able. It’s who knows the system and can execute.’’
ASU was snubbed by the NCAA but they have made the most of it in the NIT, until losing to Florida on Tuesday by 13,
Walter Hodge scored 18 points and Chandler Parsons added 15, and Florida defeated Arizona State 70-57 on Tuesday night in the NIT quarterfinals.
Expect UCLA to roll towards the Final Four.
I don’t know about you but the Wednesday before Sweet-16 is always the toughest hump day of the year. The Pac-10 season with its slate of Thursday/Fri-Sat games gets us in rhythm for the tournament season. However, around this time of the season when Wednesday rolls around, I feel like I have had enough of my share of stories, articles, analysis etc, and just want to get started with the game. And with that note let’s start with today’s roundup. The most important item on our plate is LRMAM’s health. According to Coach Howland an MRI on Luc’s left ankle this week showed ‘no damage’:
I am picking WSU over North Carolina because despite the talent advantage the Heel's are not used to playing against the WSU's deliberate style.
With our biggest hoops game since the 1941 NCAA title game coming up Thursday, the experts are coming out of the woodwork to pick North Carolina. Dickie V, Digger, you know the usual suspects. I haven't seen any projections yet that say we will be blown out of the basketball universe, and everyone expects it to be a bit of a grind for the Heels, but in the end they'll be 8-10 points better. What, did you expect that anyone would actually pick WSU this week??
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
WSU Plays UNC on Thursday
The Cougars take on North Carolina in their Sweet Sixteen appearance on Thursday against North Carolina. Everyone in the world outside of the Northwest figures that the storied Tarheel's should have little problem with the overachieving Cougars from Pullman, but like the two last opponents the Cougars have faced the Heels are going to be up against a style of play they haven't seen this year.
UNC is talented, more talented on an individual basis than WSU, but the matchup of styles should make this a game that goes down to the buzzer. This is an early one, it starts at 4:27 pm on the West Coast, so be sure not to miss it.
UNC is talented, more talented on an individual basis than WSU, but the matchup of styles should make this a game that goes down to the buzzer. This is an early one, it starts at 4:27 pm on the West Coast, so be sure not to miss it.
Monday, March 24, 2008
The Monday Morning Wash
If you are a Husky fan this coming week, and the rest of the month, it is going to be absolutely deader than a doormail. Thank goodness the Cougars are still giving us a diversion by knocking the snot out of their first two opponents in the NCAA tournament.
I have seen a lot of Husky off seasons in my time, but I have never seen this amount of silence coming out of Montlake. Take Willingham for instance. We heard from him briefly after he fired his assistants, we heard from him when he hired the new one's, and of course when he announced his 2008 recruiting class. That is about four hours of verbal communication since the first of December. This guy really knows how to promote a 4-9 program when his back is up against the wall.
We all wondered what type of Ty we would see after he narrowly escaped the hangman's noose after the Hawaii game, and what we are seeing is an even more reclusive version. Fan's who have run into him here and there have commented that he has become even more aloof in person. Many believe it is a foregone conclusion that he expects to be gone after next year so he isn't really buying into any meaningful communicative change in 2008.
Bill Fleenor has been posting regularly over on Dawgman about the disconnect, and he has decided to withold football contributions until he see's some meaningful change. He gives examples of how the UW athletic department ignores boosters, and is unappreciative or at least ambilvalent about donor contributions. He gives the example of how proactive the athletic department at WSU has become in making their boosters feel appreciated.
In Kindergarten we all learned how to say Please, and Thank You, for some reason at UW as far as athletics are concerned many boosters including Bill Fleenor keep telling the tale of how this simple courtesy has become forgotten. Send the money, buy the tickets, but don't expect us to thank you, or work to make the experience special like it was in the past. Most importantly don't expect us to make you feel special or wanted.
Word on the street is that interim AD Scott Woodward really get's it, many would be happy to see him take the position on a full time basis, but don't expect him to make major changes in how the department is currently run as an interim AD. His job right now is simply to bridge the gap and keep things running till a new AD is hired. Whoever is hired as the next AD has a lot of work to do and fences to mend once he/she starts the job.
I have seen a lot of Husky off seasons in my time, but I have never seen this amount of silence coming out of Montlake. Take Willingham for instance. We heard from him briefly after he fired his assistants, we heard from him when he hired the new one's, and of course when he announced his 2008 recruiting class. That is about four hours of verbal communication since the first of December. This guy really knows how to promote a 4-9 program when his back is up against the wall.
We all wondered what type of Ty we would see after he narrowly escaped the hangman's noose after the Hawaii game, and what we are seeing is an even more reclusive version. Fan's who have run into him here and there have commented that he has become even more aloof in person. Many believe it is a foregone conclusion that he expects to be gone after next year so he isn't really buying into any meaningful communicative change in 2008.
Bill Fleenor has been posting regularly over on Dawgman about the disconnect, and he has decided to withold football contributions until he see's some meaningful change. He gives examples of how the UW athletic department ignores boosters, and is unappreciative or at least ambilvalent about donor contributions. He gives the example of how proactive the athletic department at WSU has become in making their boosters feel appreciated.
In Kindergarten we all learned how to say Please, and Thank You, for some reason at UW as far as athletics are concerned many boosters including Bill Fleenor keep telling the tale of how this simple courtesy has become forgotten. Send the money, buy the tickets, but don't expect us to thank you, or work to make the experience special like it was in the past. Most importantly don't expect us to make you feel special or wanted.
Word on the street is that interim AD Scott Woodward really get's it, many would be happy to see him take the position on a full time basis, but don't expect him to make major changes in how the department is currently run as an interim AD. His job right now is simply to bridge the gap and keep things running till a new AD is hired. Whoever is hired as the next AD has a lot of work to do and fences to mend once he/she starts the job.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
WSU, and Pac Ten Going Deep
WSU is going to go a long way in this tournament because of their defensive style and team play. The Pac Ten figured out the Cougars as the season went on, but the rest of the country is just getting their first look at the group from Pullman which gives them a significant advantage as the tourney shrinks to 16 remaining teams next week. The Cougars have been dominating in their first two games dispatching Winthrop, and Notre Dame by healthy margins.
UCLA, and Stanford will join the Coug's next week, and both of those teams have figured out how to handle WSU. I think it is conceivable that all three could make the final four since each team is in a different bracket.
UCLA, and Stanford will join the Coug's next week, and both of those teams have figured out how to handle WSU. I think it is conceivable that all three could make the final four since each team is in a different bracket.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Zags Flounder, WSU Rolls, Vikes Bite the Big One
A decade ago, Gonzaga was everybody's cute, brainy upset pick. The Little 12th-seed That Could. The NCAA tournament felt more like a gift to Gonzaga than an expectation.
Since he took over the roll that Dan Monson began, Few has raised expectations. He has remade Gonzaga in March into must-see TV. Gonzaga, which opens the tournament today against Davidson, isn't cute any more. The Zags aren't little.
Gonzaga goes one and none and exits the tournament in the first round losing to little Davidson 82-76. So much for the pre tournament hype as the Zag's lost their last two games of the season.
With 3:36 remaining, Winthrop had scored five second-half points. The feeble record is 10, which Kent State had tied earlier in the day. More history beckoned for the Cougs.
And that's when coach Tony Bennett started pulling his starters. He only knew that his team led by 31 points, and it was time to be classy. In the nonchalance of garbage time, the record drifted away. So Washington State settled for allowing four measly field goals and 11 dinky points in one of the most riveting defensive stands you'll ever see. Yet after a 71-40 victory, the Cougars shrugged.
WSU has the talent and philosophy to go deep in the tournament.
The best basketball season in Portland State history came to an abrupt end on Thursday afternoon in the midwest. The 16th-seeded Vikings didn't have an answer for the talented number-one seed Kansas, losing 85-61 in the first round of the NCAA Midwest Regional at Qwest Center.
Portland State goes down to Kansas and Ken Bone is likely headed to OSU of the Beaver AD has any sense.
Since he took over the roll that Dan Monson began, Few has raised expectations. He has remade Gonzaga in March into must-see TV. Gonzaga, which opens the tournament today against Davidson, isn't cute any more. The Zags aren't little.
Gonzaga goes one and none and exits the tournament in the first round losing to little Davidson 82-76. So much for the pre tournament hype as the Zag's lost their last two games of the season.
With 3:36 remaining, Winthrop had scored five second-half points. The feeble record is 10, which Kent State had tied earlier in the day. More history beckoned for the Cougs.
And that's when coach Tony Bennett started pulling his starters. He only knew that his team led by 31 points, and it was time to be classy. In the nonchalance of garbage time, the record drifted away. So Washington State settled for allowing four measly field goals and 11 dinky points in one of the most riveting defensive stands you'll ever see. Yet after a 71-40 victory, the Cougars shrugged.
WSU has the talent and philosophy to go deep in the tournament.
The best basketball season in Portland State history came to an abrupt end on Thursday afternoon in the midwest. The 16th-seeded Vikings didn't have an answer for the talented number-one seed Kansas, losing 85-61 in the first round of the NCAA Midwest Regional at Qwest Center.
Portland State goes down to Kansas and Ken Bone is likely headed to OSU of the Beaver AD has any sense.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
So much for winning the CBI
Washington obviously didn't want it as much as Valparaiso last night and the season comes to a stunning end. It might have been Washington's first game in the inaugural College Basketball Invitational, but it turned out like so many others the Huskies have played this year as UW self-destructed down the stretch, allowing Valparaiso to pull a 72-71 upset. UW missed its last eight shots from the field and didn't score in the final 3:10.
Lorenzo Romar and his squad need to go back to the drawing board in the off season because things simply aren't working very well right now for the Washington basketball program. No excuse to lose at home to an undermanned opponent to end the season.
Lorenzo Romar and his squad need to go back to the drawing board in the off season because things simply aren't working very well right now for the Washington basketball program. No excuse to lose at home to an undermanned opponent to end the season.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Pac Ten Alley
It is tournament time, and every team in the Pac Ten except Oregon State will be playing extra games this post season.
Washington is probably the favorite to win the inaugural CBI tournament which doesn't really have much luster going for it. If Washington doesn't win this thing it means that they lack motivation. The same type of motivation they lacked mid season when they were blown out by Cal, and Stanford at home.
The Huskies have been a real disapointment the past two years, and while everyone loves Lorenzo it is obvious that he needs to step it up as far as coaching goes. There is really no excuse for a team to shoot foul shots that poorly. Foul shooting is all about coaching. There is nothing different between hitting a free throw in middle school than their is hitting one in college.
Away from the line the Huskies were hamstrung all year by poor ball movement, and lackluster defense out on the perimeter. While Washington is indeed deficient talent wise out there, they never made the type of adjustments neccesary to be consistent enough to win enough games to get in the tournament, and that again is coaching.
I don't think any of us confused this years edition as a championship contending team, but they did have enough talent to get into the tournament this year. All they had to do was hit some foul shots, and set some screens.
I expect better things from the team next year. We have some serious help coming in at guard. We gain experience because most of the team is coming back, and the league is going to be hit hard by early graduation. Most importantly they have eight months to work on shooting free throw.
Pac Ten Alley
Lets take a walk down the coast and see what the neighbors are up to.
I am surprised too, but the Duck's had a decent record in the one of the nation's toughest conference's.
Surprise, surprise. The Ducks got invited, much to my surprise, and the seeding wasn't that bad, until they get to the 2nd round anyway (if they make it past the first.)I know that doesn't sound too positive but, they haven't been exactly stellar this year. It will be fun to see if they make it by Mississippi St. on Friday. Time and place to be determined later. **They will be playing at Little Rock, Arkansas. The game is at 4:25 pm local time on Friday and is being broadcast live on CBS.
Stanford has the ability to go a long way in the tournament with their version of the twin towers.
I’ll have much more on the brackets and the match ups later tonight/Monday morning, but for now — with my deadline for the print edition looming large — here’s a real quick look at Selection Sunday winners and losers … First, I’d have to call Stanford a winner and a loser.
The Cardinal gets the Big Red, Cornell, in Anaheim, which is basically the anti-Louisville scenario in every sense.
Arizona has the longest tournament streak in the country, and to make it even more ridiculous they have three ex wildcats who are int he tournament playing for other teams.
There are three ex-Wildcats in the NCAA tournament. Can you name them? Most obvious is J.P. Prince at Tennessee. He's averaging 8.3 points and 3.2 rebounds for the second-seeded Vols. Score a bonus point if you remember that former UA walk-on guard Beau Muhlbach is at Texas A&M. He is averaging a little more than seven minutes per game. Now, it gets tough. Who's the third? It's Boise State forward Tyler Tiedeman.
James Montgomery has left Cal, but don't look for him to be wearing purple and gold. UW has plenty of depth at TB, and Montgomery severely burned Willingham during his recruitment. Don't expect Ty to forget that.
Cal's supposed depth at tailback doesn't look so extensive anymore after projected starter James Montgomery was granted a request to be released from his scholarship. Montgomery, who would have been a redshirt sophomore next season, was listed as the Bears' No. 1 tailback on the team's depth chart heading into spring practice later this month. But the right to replace departed starter Justin Forsett was believed to be up for grabs, with highly touted sophomore-to-be Jahvid Best providing the stiffest competition.
Oregon State hasn't exactly set the world on fire this Spring in baseball, but Northwest teams are usually notorious slow starters.
We're now a few weeks into the season, and Beaver baseball coaches and fans alike are starting to get a feel for the roster as we approach the Pac-10 conference schedule. Thirteen games are in the books, with Oregon State's record currently at 7-6. I'd like to take this opportunity to introduce the Oregon State Baseball Report, a feature that will hopefully run weekly on Building the Dam.
Here is an interesting read on the amount of work Tim Floyd puts into preparation.
Here's the secret: Tim Floyd locks himself in a basement. You can only picture it by thinking of one of those evil-genius scientists, cackling at every minute discovery. Not only does the USC coach have an armload of film, but three Bunsen burners, a complex set of tubes, gyroscopes, centrifuges, the works. But Floyd is no more genius in cooking up a game plan than any other conscientious coach would be, at least to hear him tell it.
Arizona State was snubbed by the NCAA, but the Sun Devils should be very solid in the future with the foundation that Sendek has built.
After taking a step back and a deep breath, I can still honestly say our men's basketball program has taken HUGE steps in becoming a solid team for the long run. Like our football program, we have a coach proving to be the difference maker.
The Bruins will go very deep in the tournament and challenge to win it all.
UCLA starting power forward Luc Richard Mbah a Moute did not practice Tuesday, but not because of his sprained left ankle. He was absent because of a final, but did some light shooting later in the afternoon.However, UCLA coach Ben Howland was uncertain if Mbah a Moute will be available when the top-seeded Bruins open NCAA Tournament play Thursday against No.16 seed Mississippi Valley State in the West region in Anaheim. "He missed practice, but he wouldn't have practiced anyway," Howland said. "If he's able to go, we'll play him on Thursday."
WSU starts the tournament in Denver, and every win will focus the spotlight on one of the best young head coaches in country.
Obviously the focus this week is on these guys, and for good reason. A 4-seed in Denver is nothing to sneeze at, as we wind up our best 2-year run ever in terms of NCAA appearances. I won't get too deep into it here, but as we commented yesterday, the message this week is simple - ENJOY this while it lasts. Tomorrow is guaranteed to no man, and that applies to this hoops program. We don't know what the future holds, so try to enjoy the gift that is the "precious present". That's easier said than done, and around 4:20 on Thursday many of you will be gnawing the fingernails and gnashing the teeth, but do everything you can to keep things in perspective!
Washington is probably the favorite to win the inaugural CBI tournament which doesn't really have much luster going for it. If Washington doesn't win this thing it means that they lack motivation. The same type of motivation they lacked mid season when they were blown out by Cal, and Stanford at home.
The Huskies have been a real disapointment the past two years, and while everyone loves Lorenzo it is obvious that he needs to step it up as far as coaching goes. There is really no excuse for a team to shoot foul shots that poorly. Foul shooting is all about coaching. There is nothing different between hitting a free throw in middle school than their is hitting one in college.
Away from the line the Huskies were hamstrung all year by poor ball movement, and lackluster defense out on the perimeter. While Washington is indeed deficient talent wise out there, they never made the type of adjustments neccesary to be consistent enough to win enough games to get in the tournament, and that again is coaching.
I don't think any of us confused this years edition as a championship contending team, but they did have enough talent to get into the tournament this year. All they had to do was hit some foul shots, and set some screens.
I expect better things from the team next year. We have some serious help coming in at guard. We gain experience because most of the team is coming back, and the league is going to be hit hard by early graduation. Most importantly they have eight months to work on shooting free throw.
Pac Ten Alley
Lets take a walk down the coast and see what the neighbors are up to.
I am surprised too, but the Duck's had a decent record in the one of the nation's toughest conference's.
Surprise, surprise. The Ducks got invited, much to my surprise, and the seeding wasn't that bad, until they get to the 2nd round anyway (if they make it past the first.)I know that doesn't sound too positive but, they haven't been exactly stellar this year. It will be fun to see if they make it by Mississippi St. on Friday. Time and place to be determined later. **They will be playing at Little Rock, Arkansas. The game is at 4:25 pm local time on Friday and is being broadcast live on CBS.
Stanford has the ability to go a long way in the tournament with their version of the twin towers.
I’ll have much more on the brackets and the match ups later tonight/Monday morning, but for now — with my deadline for the print edition looming large — here’s a real quick look at Selection Sunday winners and losers … First, I’d have to call Stanford a winner and a loser.
The Cardinal gets the Big Red, Cornell, in Anaheim, which is basically the anti-Louisville scenario in every sense.
Arizona has the longest tournament streak in the country, and to make it even more ridiculous they have three ex wildcats who are int he tournament playing for other teams.
There are three ex-Wildcats in the NCAA tournament. Can you name them? Most obvious is J.P. Prince at Tennessee. He's averaging 8.3 points and 3.2 rebounds for the second-seeded Vols. Score a bonus point if you remember that former UA walk-on guard Beau Muhlbach is at Texas A&M. He is averaging a little more than seven minutes per game. Now, it gets tough. Who's the third? It's Boise State forward Tyler Tiedeman.
James Montgomery has left Cal, but don't look for him to be wearing purple and gold. UW has plenty of depth at TB, and Montgomery severely burned Willingham during his recruitment. Don't expect Ty to forget that.
Cal's supposed depth at tailback doesn't look so extensive anymore after projected starter James Montgomery was granted a request to be released from his scholarship. Montgomery, who would have been a redshirt sophomore next season, was listed as the Bears' No. 1 tailback on the team's depth chart heading into spring practice later this month. But the right to replace departed starter Justin Forsett was believed to be up for grabs, with highly touted sophomore-to-be Jahvid Best providing the stiffest competition.
Oregon State hasn't exactly set the world on fire this Spring in baseball, but Northwest teams are usually notorious slow starters.
We're now a few weeks into the season, and Beaver baseball coaches and fans alike are starting to get a feel for the roster as we approach the Pac-10 conference schedule. Thirteen games are in the books, with Oregon State's record currently at 7-6. I'd like to take this opportunity to introduce the Oregon State Baseball Report, a feature that will hopefully run weekly on Building the Dam.
Here is an interesting read on the amount of work Tim Floyd puts into preparation.
Here's the secret: Tim Floyd locks himself in a basement. You can only picture it by thinking of one of those evil-genius scientists, cackling at every minute discovery. Not only does the USC coach have an armload of film, but three Bunsen burners, a complex set of tubes, gyroscopes, centrifuges, the works. But Floyd is no more genius in cooking up a game plan than any other conscientious coach would be, at least to hear him tell it.
Arizona State was snubbed by the NCAA, but the Sun Devils should be very solid in the future with the foundation that Sendek has built.
After taking a step back and a deep breath, I can still honestly say our men's basketball program has taken HUGE steps in becoming a solid team for the long run. Like our football program, we have a coach proving to be the difference maker.
The Bruins will go very deep in the tournament and challenge to win it all.
UCLA starting power forward Luc Richard Mbah a Moute did not practice Tuesday, but not because of his sprained left ankle. He was absent because of a final, but did some light shooting later in the afternoon.However, UCLA coach Ben Howland was uncertain if Mbah a Moute will be available when the top-seeded Bruins open NCAA Tournament play Thursday against No.16 seed Mississippi Valley State in the West region in Anaheim. "He missed practice, but he wouldn't have practiced anyway," Howland said. "If he's able to go, we'll play him on Thursday."
WSU starts the tournament in Denver, and every win will focus the spotlight on one of the best young head coaches in country.
Obviously the focus this week is on these guys, and for good reason. A 4-seed in Denver is nothing to sneeze at, as we wind up our best 2-year run ever in terms of NCAA appearances. I won't get too deep into it here, but as we commented yesterday, the message this week is simple - ENJOY this while it lasts. Tomorrow is guaranteed to no man, and that applies to this hoops program. We don't know what the future holds, so try to enjoy the gift that is the "precious present". That's easier said than done, and around 4:20 on Thursday many of you will be gnawing the fingernails and gnashing the teeth, but do everything you can to keep things in perspective!
Monday, March 17, 2008
The Monday Morning Wash
It is tournament time, and Washington State, Gonzaga, Portland State, and Oregon will represent the Northwest in the Big Dance. The Huskies will be facing off against Valparaiso in something called the CBI.
The CBI is made up of all the teams rejected by the NCAA, and NIT. The .500 Huskies are a #1 seed in this tournament which means we could see a number of games at Hec Edmundson if they don't falter. This tournament doesn't really matter, but it is a nice chance for the team to get some extra work outside the conference and start preparing for next season. Brockman should be available which means the team should be able to win the thing if they stay focused.
Ken Bone has his PSU Vikings primed for their first tournament in a long time. They better enjoy the three hour brush with fame because Bone is likely headed to Oregon State to rebuild that program after the Vike's are eliminated against #1 seed Kansas in the opener.
Oregon slipped in unexpectedly, and that is good for the conference, and good for Ernie Kent who is trying to keep his job. A win or two by the Ducks would really help out his situation, but the Ducks have Mark Few envy. Oregon is a nine seed which isn't a bad place to be, they face off against Mississippi State.
Speaking of Mark Few his Zag's were upset in the championship game of the WCC tournament by Bill Grier and his Sand Diego Torreros. Look for Grier to take over at Gonzaga if Few heads off to Eugene. the Zag's of course are the darlings of the tournament, but they haven't exactly been themselves this year. they start off as a seven seed against Davidson which has one 22 in a row.
The Cougars are a four seed and they face ever dangerous Winthrop. Look for the Cougars to make it to the Sweet Sixteen.
Art Thiel can't resist knocking the CBI bound Dawgs this morning from his bully pulpit at the PI.
Gonzaga, Boise State, Portland State, Washington State. What's missing from this NCAA Tournament snapshot taken Sunday of Northwest college hoops? The biggest school and athletics program in the region. Maybe the University of Washington should move to a smaller conference.
He makes a good point, if they had learned how to shoot free throws they would have been in. I have to put this teams performance down as under achieving over the past two years. They were missing some parts, such as good guards, but they had enough to make the tournament if they were a fundamentally better team.
The CBI is made up of all the teams rejected by the NCAA, and NIT. The .500 Huskies are a #1 seed in this tournament which means we could see a number of games at Hec Edmundson if they don't falter. This tournament doesn't really matter, but it is a nice chance for the team to get some extra work outside the conference and start preparing for next season. Brockman should be available which means the team should be able to win the thing if they stay focused.
Ken Bone has his PSU Vikings primed for their first tournament in a long time. They better enjoy the three hour brush with fame because Bone is likely headed to Oregon State to rebuild that program after the Vike's are eliminated against #1 seed Kansas in the opener.
Oregon slipped in unexpectedly, and that is good for the conference, and good for Ernie Kent who is trying to keep his job. A win or two by the Ducks would really help out his situation, but the Ducks have Mark Few envy. Oregon is a nine seed which isn't a bad place to be, they face off against Mississippi State.
Speaking of Mark Few his Zag's were upset in the championship game of the WCC tournament by Bill Grier and his Sand Diego Torreros. Look for Grier to take over at Gonzaga if Few heads off to Eugene. the Zag's of course are the darlings of the tournament, but they haven't exactly been themselves this year. they start off as a seven seed against Davidson which has one 22 in a row.
The Cougars are a four seed and they face ever dangerous Winthrop. Look for the Cougars to make it to the Sweet Sixteen.
Art Thiel can't resist knocking the CBI bound Dawgs this morning from his bully pulpit at the PI.
Gonzaga, Boise State, Portland State, Washington State. What's missing from this NCAA Tournament snapshot taken Sunday of Northwest college hoops? The biggest school and athletics program in the region. Maybe the University of Washington should move to a smaller conference.
He makes a good point, if they had learned how to shoot free throws they would have been in. I have to put this teams performance down as under achieving over the past two years. They were missing some parts, such as good guards, but they had enough to make the tournament if they were a fundamentally better team.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Women's basketball team rocked by another defection
Freshman guard Katelan Redmon, the leading scorer on the Washington women's basketball team this past season, has become the third member of her recruiting class to leave the Huskies.
Redmon's decision was announced Wednesday in an athletic department news release.
In deciding to end her UW career with three years of eligibility remaining, Redmon, from Spokane, followed fellow freshmen Candice Nichols, a guard from Carson, Calif., and Jess McCormack, a forward from Auckland, New Zealand, out the door.
Redmon's decision was announced Wednesday in an athletic department news release.
In deciding to end her UW career with three years of eligibility remaining, Redmon, from Spokane, followed fellow freshmen Candice Nichols, a guard from Carson, Calif., and Jess McCormack, a forward from Auckland, New Zealand, out the door.
Huskies Season Probably Over
One and done in the Pac Ten tournament probably eliminates the Huskies from post season play unless the power of the conference can get them a bid in the CBI.
The Golden Bears escaped with an 84-81 win over a UW team that for much of the night defied the theory that it was dead without its leader. With Brockman the Huskies probably get the win, and give the team credit, they played almost well enough to win without the best power player in the conference.
UW can look forward to next year when a power infusion at guard, and graduation around the league turns them into a tournament contender once again. Make no mistake about it, the addition of Isaiah Thomas if he qualifies will imprve this team where it needs it, around the perimeter.
The Golden Bears escaped with an 84-81 win over a UW team that for much of the night defied the theory that it was dead without its leader. With Brockman the Huskies probably get the win, and give the team credit, they played almost well enough to win without the best power player in the conference.
UW can look forward to next year when a power infusion at guard, and graduation around the league turns them into a tournament contender once again. Make no mistake about it, the addition of Isaiah Thomas if he qualifies will imprve this team where it needs it, around the perimeter.
Monday, March 10, 2008
The Monday Morning Wash
Whoever ends up with the AD job at Washington is going to have some significant positions to fill since it seems the high level people Todd Turner brought in are actively seeking employment elsewhere. The latest to leave is Scott Barnes who will become the AD at Utah State.
Frank Fidler
Remember the day's when the Pac Ten had competent officiating, well a lot of those competent officials have retired, and one of the great one's passed away this weekend.
Frank Burke Fidler, 86, died peacefully at his home Feb. 27 with his wife and son at his side. His death was caused by difficulties after a fall, subsequent surgeries and several bouts of pneumonia, according to his son, Brett Fidler, of Bellevue. He was well known in Seattle athletic circles. Mr. Fidler officiated football and basketball at both the high-school and collegiate levels. He helped establish the Washington State High School Officiating Association and was selected as an official for the Rose Bowl in 1964 and 1976, among other high-profile venues. He spent several years coaching the Buchan Bakers Amateur Athletic Union basketball team and in 1956 his team won the national championship, and later toured, playing teams in the Philippines and Japan.
Like most officials of that era Frank was an educator who spent many years teaching in the Seattle school district. Officiating was a great way to moonlight and make extra cash in those days.
Frank also was the coach of the famed Buchan Bakers. The Bakers were a big deal in Seattle during the 1950's and very early 1960's. Back in the days when the AAU was big time the team won a national championship in basketball. The teams featured players like Elgin Baylor, Bob Houbregs, and the O'Brien twins during different periods.
Brockman Status
Jon Brockman is going to tough it out and try to play this week at the Pac Ten tournament. diagnostic test reveal that he suffered a sever sprain rather than a broken ankle which is good news for Husky fans. Brockman also points out that the Huskies beat California on the road a week ago when he only played 24 minutes because of foul trouble. The Huskies need to step it up considerably while Brockman is out of the lineup.
Stadium
A new potential ownership group has emerged for the Sonics led by Microsoft billionaire Steve Balmer. This potential ownership group wants to stay at a remodeled Key Arena, and they only want $75 million form the city, and another $75 million from the state to renovate Key Arena. Even local stadium subsidy opponents are enthusiastic about the potential plan. Legislators on the other hand are saying that there isn't enough time left in the special session to handle it. Slade Gorton who is leading the cities effort from a law perspective to defense the existing lease says they have plenty of time if they want to get it done. how this effects Husky Stadium is simple, and extension of the tax if granted would probably be worked to include renovations at Husky Stadium. Keep an eye on this one, it could turn around quickly because it would be a win/win for all concerned. Of course in Washington State win/win never means a victory because there are always so many special interests involved. the state should jump on this one because this opportunity may never surface again in the immediate future.
If Clay Bennett refuses to sell the Sonics, speculation has centered largely on Seattle pursuing a struggling franchise such as the New Orleans Hornets to fill the void if a prospective new ownership group remodels KeyArena.
Nathan Ware Winding Down
As usual, great job this past year Nathan!
This will be the final Monday Morning Longsnapper until the beginning of the 2008 football season. I will continue the blog - without the MML - through spring football. The Snapper is an "in-season" column for me and - with basketball season ending - my main UW sports season is at a close. All good things have to come to an end - at least for five months. I'll be on "blogging vacation" for May, June, and July.
Frank Fidler
Remember the day's when the Pac Ten had competent officiating, well a lot of those competent officials have retired, and one of the great one's passed away this weekend.
Frank Burke Fidler, 86, died peacefully at his home Feb. 27 with his wife and son at his side. His death was caused by difficulties after a fall, subsequent surgeries and several bouts of pneumonia, according to his son, Brett Fidler, of Bellevue. He was well known in Seattle athletic circles. Mr. Fidler officiated football and basketball at both the high-school and collegiate levels. He helped establish the Washington State High School Officiating Association and was selected as an official for the Rose Bowl in 1964 and 1976, among other high-profile venues. He spent several years coaching the Buchan Bakers Amateur Athletic Union basketball team and in 1956 his team won the national championship, and later toured, playing teams in the Philippines and Japan.
Like most officials of that era Frank was an educator who spent many years teaching in the Seattle school district. Officiating was a great way to moonlight and make extra cash in those days.
Frank also was the coach of the famed Buchan Bakers. The Bakers were a big deal in Seattle during the 1950's and very early 1960's. Back in the days when the AAU was big time the team won a national championship in basketball. The teams featured players like Elgin Baylor, Bob Houbregs, and the O'Brien twins during different periods.
Brockman Status
Jon Brockman is going to tough it out and try to play this week at the Pac Ten tournament. diagnostic test reveal that he suffered a sever sprain rather than a broken ankle which is good news for Husky fans. Brockman also points out that the Huskies beat California on the road a week ago when he only played 24 minutes because of foul trouble. The Huskies need to step it up considerably while Brockman is out of the lineup.
Stadium
A new potential ownership group has emerged for the Sonics led by Microsoft billionaire Steve Balmer. This potential ownership group wants to stay at a remodeled Key Arena, and they only want $75 million form the city, and another $75 million from the state to renovate Key Arena. Even local stadium subsidy opponents are enthusiastic about the potential plan. Legislators on the other hand are saying that there isn't enough time left in the special session to handle it. Slade Gorton who is leading the cities effort from a law perspective to defense the existing lease says they have plenty of time if they want to get it done. how this effects Husky Stadium is simple, and extension of the tax if granted would probably be worked to include renovations at Husky Stadium. Keep an eye on this one, it could turn around quickly because it would be a win/win for all concerned. Of course in Washington State win/win never means a victory because there are always so many special interests involved. the state should jump on this one because this opportunity may never surface again in the immediate future.
If Clay Bennett refuses to sell the Sonics, speculation has centered largely on Seattle pursuing a struggling franchise such as the New Orleans Hornets to fill the void if a prospective new ownership group remodels KeyArena.
Nathan Ware Winding Down
As usual, great job this past year Nathan!
This will be the final Monday Morning Longsnapper until the beginning of the 2008 football season. I will continue the blog - without the MML - through spring football. The Snapper is an "in-season" column for me and - with basketball season ending - my main UW sports season is at a close. All good things have to come to an end - at least for five months. I'll be on "blogging vacation" for May, June, and July.
Sunday, March 09, 2008
Huskies Lose Two OT Thriller To WSU
Washington (16-15 overall, 7-11 Pac-10) was handed its seventh consecutive defeat in the series when the 23rd-ranked Cougars (23-7, 11-7) scored the first four points in the second extra period and didn't let up winning the contest 76-73.
Just like the first encounter earlier this year the two teams fought from the tipoff to the very end of the game with the Cougars prevailing in the end.
While the Huskies lost the game, they may have lost something even more important, Jon Brockman hit the floor hard after going up for a rebound with 1:56 left and had to be carried off. No word yet on the severity of the injury, but it could be the end of the season for Brockman who is one of the top rebounders in the country.
Just like the first encounter earlier this year the two teams fought from the tipoff to the very end of the game with the Cougars prevailing in the end.
While the Huskies lost the game, they may have lost something even more important, Jon Brockman hit the floor hard after going up for a rebound with 1:56 left and had to be carried off. No word yet on the severity of the injury, but it could be the end of the season for Brockman who is one of the top rebounders in the country.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Pac Ten Alley
The regular basketball season comes to a close this weekend as the Huskies invade Pullman. The Huskies then will try to go 3-0 in the Pac Ten tournament the following weekend. Not an easy thing to do, but one thing the Dawgs have shown in the second half of the season is they can compete with anyone in the conference on a given night. Let's see if Joe Wolfinger can stay hot, he really adds a completely different dimension to the team. A 7 footer shooting three's, you don't see that every day.
Pac Ten Alley
Let's take a walk down the coast to see what the neighbors are up to.
The word coming out of Oregon is that Ernie Kent is going to need a miracle to be retained as coach next year. Bad decision by the Ducks unless they can coerce Mark Few to leave Gonzaga to come to Eugene. The Ducks are still on the bubble as far as the NCAA tourney is concerned with two games left against the Arizona schools
Marty Leunen (pictured) had a career-high 32 points and Oregon ended the game on a 12-3 run as the Ducks beat Oregon State 80-68 on Sunday. Leunen scored 23 points and hit six of his seven 3-pointers in the second half for Oregon (16-12, 7-9 Pacific-10 Conference) in the 329th meeting between the schools, the most in college basketball.
Stanford is headed to the NCAA tournament, by Jon Wilner speculates as many as seven teams could be invited.
Despite the eat-your-own nature of the Pac-10, it could send seven teams to the NCAAs without a major surprise in the conference tournament. It could also send just four. Seven is more likely, although not all that likely; the best bet is five or six.
Arizona is getting a look from a stud TE. Ty should contact the kid since we have two McClymonds HS kids on the current roster, and we have a need at TE.
Arizona might be in the running for NaDerris Ward, who was rated the No. 2 tight end in the nation coming out of high school in 2005. At least that is what the Athens Banner-Herald is reporting. The former Rivals No. 2 rated tight end from McClymonds High in Oakland is transferring from Georgia and is apparently considering Arizona and Oregon.
Nate Longshore is no longer a fan favorite at Cal.
The quarterback situation in Berkeley officially became delicious when backup Kevin Riley rallied the Bears from behind in the Armed Forces Bowl, running for a score and going 16-of-19 for 269 yards and three touchdowns through the air.
It is baseball season at Oregon State.
The Beavers won the Pape Grand Slam title Sunday afternoon with a 5-4 come from behind victory over the Georgia Bulldogs in front of 11,166 fans on a beautiful day at PGE Park. Down 4-1 heading into the bottom of the sixth inning, the Beavers scored four unanswered runs-- one in the sixth, two in the seventh, and one in the eighth-- to seal the victory. OSU closer Kevin Rhoderick came into the game to pitch in the top of the ninth, and sat Georgia's three batters that came to the plate down in order. Rhoderick, who signed a letter of intent to Georgia before asking for a release and coming to Oregon State, recorded his second save of the season.
The Reggie Bush deal at USC is always interesting, what is even more interesting is the NCAA is going to ignore it.
An eight-month Yahoo! Sports investigation has revealed that Heisman Trophy-winning running back Reggie Bush and his family appear to have accepted financial benefits worth more than $100,000 from marketing agents while Bush was playing at the University of Southern California.
More trash talk directed at Arizona from Arizona State.
In light of getting swept by the Sun Devils in their beloved cash cow men's basketball, one would think this would be a good week for the University of Arizona to lie low and wait it out until softball season starts, but leave it to our good friend Jeff Metcalfe to pile it on when some piling needs doing. Metcalfe, the ASU beat writer for the Arizona Republic, has been the only Republic journalist that has treated ASU like a hometown team as long as I've been reading it (about a decade) and today may be his finest hour. We'll get to Jeff in a moment.
A little John Wooden talk at UCLA. I am a sucker for anything John Wooden, and I hope he lives forever.
But, it's not the buildings or even the banners that make a trip to a UCLA game like attending the ultimate history class. It's not the timeless uniforms, which look exactly as they did when Abdul-Jabbar was known as Alcindor, either. When you attend a Bruin game, you often do so in the company of Wooden, who sits in the risers behind the Bruin bench. When Wooden is on hand, his presence seems to make time stand still. Wooden hasn't coached the Bruins in 33 years, but you get the sense he's still guiding them.
WSU fantasizes about Big Shot Bob.
But I digress Coug fans. Let's spin it back our way a moment. Who, exactly, is our "Big Shot Bob"? Who is the guy, at crunch time, that you want taking that season-altering shot?
Pac Ten Alley
Let's take a walk down the coast to see what the neighbors are up to.
The word coming out of Oregon is that Ernie Kent is going to need a miracle to be retained as coach next year. Bad decision by the Ducks unless they can coerce Mark Few to leave Gonzaga to come to Eugene. The Ducks are still on the bubble as far as the NCAA tourney is concerned with two games left against the Arizona schools
Marty Leunen (pictured) had a career-high 32 points and Oregon ended the game on a 12-3 run as the Ducks beat Oregon State 80-68 on Sunday. Leunen scored 23 points and hit six of his seven 3-pointers in the second half for Oregon (16-12, 7-9 Pacific-10 Conference) in the 329th meeting between the schools, the most in college basketball.
Stanford is headed to the NCAA tournament, by Jon Wilner speculates as many as seven teams could be invited.
Despite the eat-your-own nature of the Pac-10, it could send seven teams to the NCAAs without a major surprise in the conference tournament. It could also send just four. Seven is more likely, although not all that likely; the best bet is five or six.
Arizona is getting a look from a stud TE. Ty should contact the kid since we have two McClymonds HS kids on the current roster, and we have a need at TE.
Arizona might be in the running for NaDerris Ward, who was rated the No. 2 tight end in the nation coming out of high school in 2005. At least that is what the Athens Banner-Herald is reporting. The former Rivals No. 2 rated tight end from McClymonds High in Oakland is transferring from Georgia and is apparently considering Arizona and Oregon.
Nate Longshore is no longer a fan favorite at Cal.
The quarterback situation in Berkeley officially became delicious when backup Kevin Riley rallied the Bears from behind in the Armed Forces Bowl, running for a score and going 16-of-19 for 269 yards and three touchdowns through the air.
It is baseball season at Oregon State.
The Beavers won the Pape Grand Slam title Sunday afternoon with a 5-4 come from behind victory over the Georgia Bulldogs in front of 11,166 fans on a beautiful day at PGE Park. Down 4-1 heading into the bottom of the sixth inning, the Beavers scored four unanswered runs-- one in the sixth, two in the seventh, and one in the eighth-- to seal the victory. OSU closer Kevin Rhoderick came into the game to pitch in the top of the ninth, and sat Georgia's three batters that came to the plate down in order. Rhoderick, who signed a letter of intent to Georgia before asking for a release and coming to Oregon State, recorded his second save of the season.
The Reggie Bush deal at USC is always interesting, what is even more interesting is the NCAA is going to ignore it.
An eight-month Yahoo! Sports investigation has revealed that Heisman Trophy-winning running back Reggie Bush and his family appear to have accepted financial benefits worth more than $100,000 from marketing agents while Bush was playing at the University of Southern California.
More trash talk directed at Arizona from Arizona State.
In light of getting swept by the Sun Devils in their beloved cash cow men's basketball, one would think this would be a good week for the University of Arizona to lie low and wait it out until softball season starts, but leave it to our good friend Jeff Metcalfe to pile it on when some piling needs doing. Metcalfe, the ASU beat writer for the Arizona Republic, has been the only Republic journalist that has treated ASU like a hometown team as long as I've been reading it (about a decade) and today may be his finest hour. We'll get to Jeff in a moment.
A little John Wooden talk at UCLA. I am a sucker for anything John Wooden, and I hope he lives forever.
But, it's not the buildings or even the banners that make a trip to a UCLA game like attending the ultimate history class. It's not the timeless uniforms, which look exactly as they did when Abdul-Jabbar was known as Alcindor, either. When you attend a Bruin game, you often do so in the company of Wooden, who sits in the risers behind the Bruin bench. When Wooden is on hand, his presence seems to make time stand still. Wooden hasn't coached the Bruins in 33 years, but you get the sense he's still guiding them.
WSU fantasizes about Big Shot Bob.
But I digress Coug fans. Let's spin it back our way a moment. Who, exactly, is our "Big Shot Bob"? Who is the guy, at crunch time, that you want taking that season-altering shot?
Ed Pepple
Very nice article today on Mercer Island's Ed Pepple. Ed has been coaching at MI for 41 years which is pretty cool, in fact since I am only 49 he is the only coach I can remember ever being at the school. I was never much of a basketball player, but Ed did start a program that was emulated everywhere called the "little dribblers" which I did participate in. This may sound corny, but it may have been the best time I ever had in sports. Ed is 75 years old and still going strong. Here's to you Ed!
(I am going to be busy running around today, but will get Pac Ten Alley out later than usual because of those prior commitments. )
(I am going to be busy running around today, but will get Pac Ten Alley out later than usual because of those prior commitments. )
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Who is Going to Recruit LA?
Kim Grinolds of Dawgman brought up a good point on the DM message board, and that is who is going to be in charge of recruiting the Los Angeles area?
In 2008 Washington had an exceptional in state HS class, but in 2009 the consensus is the pickings will be below average. That means Washington will have to recruit California a lot harder, and deeper this coming season to take up the slack. I would be surprised if Washington takes more than six-eight athletes in state next season.
If you look at the Washington coaching staff they do not have a single coach with extensive recruiting ties in Southern California even though recruiting coordinator Chris Tormey knows the area well. The last Washington assistant with those type of ties was Eric Yarber who left a couple of years ago to rejoin Dennis Erickson at ASU.
Charlie Baggett who joined the staff last season as WR coach seems to be one of the logical choices even though he is not from that area. Baggett did an excellent job in South Puget Sound last season landing Kavario Middleton, and Jermaine Kearse from Lakes. Charlies only recently returned to the college game after an extended stint in the NFL. He went to school at Michigan State with Willingham, and most of his experience is back East, and in the Midwest.
DJ Wiliams is a very strong recruiter whose responsibilty has been the Bay Area, and the Central Valley of California. That is a big area of recruiting responsibilty so I don't see that being expanded into the inner city of Los Angeles.
Chris Tormey has been around Washington football forever and has proven himself over time to be an excellent recruiter, and recruiting coordinator. I imagine Chris will be spending a lot fo time with Baggett in Southern California getting introduced, and acclimated to the region.
Washington made some excellent hires this off season. All the new coaches bring fresh blood, past success, and new ideas to the program, but the major challenge the staff faces from a recruiting perspective is to fill a gaping hole in Southern California.
Gervais
No official word from Washington at this point on the hiring of Steve Gervais, but expect a news conference as soon as his contract is finalized. Most people think he is going to be filling the RB coach position even though his bacground has been a tutor of QB's. Like all good coaches he can fill in at any position. Brian White on the other hand was hired as a TE coach even though he had a long run of success coaching RB's at Wisconsin. Tim Lappano's core background has been as a RB coach before moving up to offensive coordinator. He did a nice job though tutoring Jonathan Smith at OSU, and Isaiah Stanback at UW.
The point of this summary is that the staff could be reassigned once Willingham gets a feel for what he has before Spring practice. Ty as usual isn't communicating about what he plans to do, but personally I would love to see Gervais work with Jake Locker. Gervais is a former QB, and has been known for his work with QB's.
By the way the next great Washington QB after Ronnie Fouch is probably going to be Eastlake's Jake Heaps. I mention Ronnie because he is going to start a solid year or two before he graduates.
Scott Woodward
The Times ran an article on Interim AD Scott Woodward today, and his potential candidacy for the vacant AD position. Scott hasn't thrown his hat in the ring yet, but I think he ultimately will be the one who gets the job if he decides he wants it.
Ron Crockett, president of Emerald Downs and one of the school's most influential boosters, marveled at a recent Tyee Board executive meeting how quickly Woodward picked up the nuances of running the department. "He's an extremely capable guy and whatever he puts his mind to, he'd do a great job," Crockett said. "It's really up to the president and how he wants to handle the situation."Therein lies the big question — does UW president Mark Emmert want Woodward to have the job if Woodward wants it?
Nathan Ware on Steve Gervais
Personally, I think it's a brilliant move on Willingham's part that entrenches him a little deeper at UW. The administration at UW will see it as a recruiting coup in terms of persuading Heaps and his Skyline teammates to make UW their college choice. And, I'd be surprised if Gervais didn't excel in the position.
In 2008 Washington had an exceptional in state HS class, but in 2009 the consensus is the pickings will be below average. That means Washington will have to recruit California a lot harder, and deeper this coming season to take up the slack. I would be surprised if Washington takes more than six-eight athletes in state next season.
If you look at the Washington coaching staff they do not have a single coach with extensive recruiting ties in Southern California even though recruiting coordinator Chris Tormey knows the area well. The last Washington assistant with those type of ties was Eric Yarber who left a couple of years ago to rejoin Dennis Erickson at ASU.
Charlie Baggett who joined the staff last season as WR coach seems to be one of the logical choices even though he is not from that area. Baggett did an excellent job in South Puget Sound last season landing Kavario Middleton, and Jermaine Kearse from Lakes. Charlies only recently returned to the college game after an extended stint in the NFL. He went to school at Michigan State with Willingham, and most of his experience is back East, and in the Midwest.
DJ Wiliams is a very strong recruiter whose responsibilty has been the Bay Area, and the Central Valley of California. That is a big area of recruiting responsibilty so I don't see that being expanded into the inner city of Los Angeles.
Chris Tormey has been around Washington football forever and has proven himself over time to be an excellent recruiter, and recruiting coordinator. I imagine Chris will be spending a lot fo time with Baggett in Southern California getting introduced, and acclimated to the region.
Washington made some excellent hires this off season. All the new coaches bring fresh blood, past success, and new ideas to the program, but the major challenge the staff faces from a recruiting perspective is to fill a gaping hole in Southern California.
Gervais
No official word from Washington at this point on the hiring of Steve Gervais, but expect a news conference as soon as his contract is finalized. Most people think he is going to be filling the RB coach position even though his bacground has been a tutor of QB's. Like all good coaches he can fill in at any position. Brian White on the other hand was hired as a TE coach even though he had a long run of success coaching RB's at Wisconsin. Tim Lappano's core background has been as a RB coach before moving up to offensive coordinator. He did a nice job though tutoring Jonathan Smith at OSU, and Isaiah Stanback at UW.
The point of this summary is that the staff could be reassigned once Willingham gets a feel for what he has before Spring practice. Ty as usual isn't communicating about what he plans to do, but personally I would love to see Gervais work with Jake Locker. Gervais is a former QB, and has been known for his work with QB's.
By the way the next great Washington QB after Ronnie Fouch is probably going to be Eastlake's Jake Heaps. I mention Ronnie because he is going to start a solid year or two before he graduates.
Scott Woodward
The Times ran an article on Interim AD Scott Woodward today, and his potential candidacy for the vacant AD position. Scott hasn't thrown his hat in the ring yet, but I think he ultimately will be the one who gets the job if he decides he wants it.
Ron Crockett, president of Emerald Downs and one of the school's most influential boosters, marveled at a recent Tyee Board executive meeting how quickly Woodward picked up the nuances of running the department. "He's an extremely capable guy and whatever he puts his mind to, he'd do a great job," Crockett said. "It's really up to the president and how he wants to handle the situation."Therein lies the big question — does UW president Mark Emmert want Woodward to have the job if Woodward wants it?
Nathan Ware on Steve Gervais
Personally, I think it's a brilliant move on Willingham's part that entrenches him a little deeper at UW. The administration at UW will see it as a recruiting coup in terms of persuading Heaps and his Skyline teammates to make UW their college choice. And, I'd be surprised if Gervais didn't excel in the position.
Monday, March 03, 2008
Steve Gervais Coming to UW
One of the finest high school football coaches in the Pacific Northwest is apparently going to accept an assistant football coaching position at Washington.
Steve Gervais, 54, has won six state championships, three with Eatonville (1985, '90 and '92) and two with Skyline (2002, 2005, and 2007). In 31 seasons as a head coach at four schools, the past 10 at Skyline of Sammamish, he has 244 wins — third all-time among active coaches — against 87 losses.
Many consider Gervais a coaching genius.
"He is the best high-school football coach in the state," according to Inglemoor's Frank Naish "and that's not a compliment I give out to be nice. I just believe it. He's won at all levels and he's won everywhere he's been and he wins with his own [district] kids."
Gervais, who played at Puyallup High School and Oregon State University, began his winning ways at Eatonville, where he was head coach for 16 years. After guiding the Crusaders to their third Class 1A state title in 1992, ultimately scrapping a run-oriented offense for an innovative spread scheme, he decided it was time for a new challenge. He spent two years at Gig Harbor and three at Rogers of Puyallup before coming to Skyline in 1998, the year after the school opened.
Gervais will reportedly coach running backs at Washington, but I could see Lappano taking over the RB's and Gervais working with the QB's. Whatever position he ends up coaching I think it is a fantastic addition to the Washington staff. It also doesn't hurt that he currently coaches Jake Heaps at Skyline who may just be the top QB in the country when the rankings come out for the 2010 recruiting class.
Steve Gervais, 54, has won six state championships, three with Eatonville (1985, '90 and '92) and two with Skyline (2002, 2005, and 2007). In 31 seasons as a head coach at four schools, the past 10 at Skyline of Sammamish, he has 244 wins — third all-time among active coaches — against 87 losses.
Many consider Gervais a coaching genius.
"He is the best high-school football coach in the state," according to Inglemoor's Frank Naish "and that's not a compliment I give out to be nice. I just believe it. He's won at all levels and he's won everywhere he's been and he wins with his own [district] kids."
Gervais, who played at Puyallup High School and Oregon State University, began his winning ways at Eatonville, where he was head coach for 16 years. After guiding the Crusaders to their third Class 1A state title in 1992, ultimately scrapping a run-oriented offense for an innovative spread scheme, he decided it was time for a new challenge. He spent two years at Gig Harbor and three at Rogers of Puyallup before coming to Skyline in 1998, the year after the school opened.
Gervais will reportedly coach running backs at Washington, but I could see Lappano taking over the RB's and Gervais working with the QB's. Whatever position he ends up coaching I think it is a fantastic addition to the Washington staff. It also doesn't hurt that he currently coaches Jake Heaps at Skyline who may just be the top QB in the country when the rankings come out for the 2010 recruiting class.
The Monday Morning Wash
Happy March everyone, Spring is just around the corner, and that means March Madness. The state will be likely represented by Gonzaga, and WSU in the NCAA Tournament while the Huskies should squeek into the CBI, or NIT. What that means if you are a Husky fan is a month long wait till Spring football begins. Expect practices to be more open this Spring if Interim AD Scott Woodward gets his way.
Husky Basketball
The Husky basketball team split in the Bay Area this weekend to guarantee themselves a winning record for the season. Like I said last week they are playing their best ball of the year so far even though that is a very subjective statement. Center Joe Wolfinger was the catalyst this past weekend and it was nice to see him finally putting it all together. It is a little too late to for the NCAA tournament unless they put together three in a row in LA, but if they beat WSU this coming weekend in Pullman it should assure a slot in either the NIT, or CBI.
Jim Moore
You are probably already aware that Jim Moore is going to be filling the gap left by Ted Miller who left the PI to work for ESPN. It should be a challenge for Jim to achieve impartiality because he really enjoyed the former gig of being the Go-2-Guy. We should see some of Jim's new work this week in the PI, but it won't be until later this Spring when he starts covering college football.
Locker playing Baseball
Jake Locker is going to play a little baseball this Summer to keep his stroke from getting too rusty. Jake will not be playing fulltime, and for the most part they are going to be putting him in situations where the risk of injury is pretty slight. Locker is the type of kid that makes MLB Scouts drool when they look at his potential, and I think it is a wise thing for him to keep his hand in the game to keep his options open after college. Jake won't be missing anything football related this summer, and Willingham who also played baseball in college supports the decision.
AD Search
The UW has named an AD search committee to come up with some candidates to take over the job full time in the Fall. Most insiders think that the person they come up with may already be behind the desk in the person on interim AD Scott Woodward. Scott has the political savvy needed to get the stadium renovation done, and he has the advantage of already being involved in the process. Woodward has already dropped plenty of hints that he is enjoying the job. I would put my money on Woodward.
Stadium News
Since we are bringing up the stadium the latest word is funding is dead for this seassion which makes sense since the state is preparing for an economic downturn. There is also the matter of the NBA stepping back in line to secure those funds since three local ownership groups have emerged to either buy the Sonics, or purchase another team and move them to Seattle. The economic reality is whoever purchases the Sonics is going to need either a remodeled facility, or a completely new building to make a go of it. What makes it all different than Clay Bennett is the local ownership groups are willing to pay half, or more of the construction either way they go. Bennett never wanted to pay a dime, he only wanted to chip in funding provided by naming rights.
As far as Husky Stadium goes everyone in State Goverment understands it is a problem that will not go away, and has to be dealt with one way or another. Like anything in the state of Washington it takes time, and usually only an emergency can spure them to action. UW needs to start developing a plan b of some sort to help get this thing going before construction starts on the light rail.
Endowments
The UW is one of 76 universities that reported endowments totaling more than $1 billion in 2007, a trend some members of Congress have labeled disturbing in the face of constant tuition increases. Now Washington, D.C., lawmakers are toying with the idea of requiring universities to spend 5 percent of the burgeoning endowments each year.
The UW has an endowment (money given to it for the purpose of investment) of more than $2 billion, bolstered by a long fundraising campaign, and has kept raising tuition. The cost of an undergraduate year at the UW last year would have paid for three years 20 years earlier."
Congress wants school in the financial position of UW to start spending 5% of those endowments each year to help keep tuitions in line.
Emmert
President Mark Emmert has become a hot commodity in the higher educational field. He recently turned down almost $2 million a year to become the president of Vanderbilt. The Vandy job is the highest paying college President job in the country. Emmert also has been a apprached byt he prestigous UC system. the draw seems to be he is succesful at raing funds, is a fine administrator that gets a long with people, and most importatly he is only 55 years old which means he has at least a decade of service left to perform. Most insiders are pretty confident that Washington will be his last stop sinc ehe is an alumnus, and Puget Sound is home for him.
Softball
Ashlyn Watson hit a grand slam and Aleah Macon struck out 11 to lead No. 25 Washington past No. 1 Alabama at the Husky Softball Classic on Saturday afternoon. Washington improves to 8-5-1 on the season, while handing the Crimson Tide (17-1) their first loss of the season.
Womens Basketball
The womens team is also saving it's best basketball of the season for the end as they knocked off league leading California at home this past weekend. Sami Whitcomb scored 24 points, and hit four 3-pointers during a decisive 18-7 second-half run as Washington stunned No. 9 California 74-66 on Sunday, ruining the Golden Bears' chance at their first Pac-10 title. Laura McLellan added 13 points and 5-foot-5 guard Emily Florence had 11 points.
Husky Crew
Mike Callahan begins his first season as head coach of the legendary Washington Crew. Callahan took over for Rowing Director Bob Ernst who opted to head the Womens program to bring it back to prominence. The Husky men are coming off a National Championship season and are expected to be one of the favorites to win it once again despite many team members taking a year off to compete for national teams.
03/29/08 Class Day Montlake Cut
04/05/08 San Diego Crew Classic San Diego, Calif. (Mission Bay)
04/06/08 San Diego Crew Classic San Diego, Calif. (Mission Bay)
04/12/08 Washington State Montlake Cut
04/19/08 Oregon State Montlake Cut
04/26/08 California Belmont, Calif. (Redwood Shores)
05/03/08 Windermere Cup/Opening Day
05/18/08 Pac-10 Championships Rancho Cordova, Calif. (Lake Natoma)
05/30/08NCAA Women's Championships (Day 1) Rancho Cordova, Calif. (Lake Natoma)
05/31/08 NCAA Women's Championships (Day 2) Rancho Cordova, Calif. (Lake Natoma)
06/01/08 NCAA Women's Championships (Day 3) Rancho Cordova, Calif. (Lake Natoma)
06/05/08 IRA Men's Championships (Day 1) Cherry Hill, N.J. (Cooper River)
06/06/08 IRA Men's Championships (Day 2) Cherry Hill, N.J. (Cooper River)
06/07/08 IRA Men's Championships (Day 3) Cherry Hill, N.J. (Cooper River)
Husky Basketball
The Husky basketball team split in the Bay Area this weekend to guarantee themselves a winning record for the season. Like I said last week they are playing their best ball of the year so far even though that is a very subjective statement. Center Joe Wolfinger was the catalyst this past weekend and it was nice to see him finally putting it all together. It is a little too late to for the NCAA tournament unless they put together three in a row in LA, but if they beat WSU this coming weekend in Pullman it should assure a slot in either the NIT, or CBI.
Jim Moore
You are probably already aware that Jim Moore is going to be filling the gap left by Ted Miller who left the PI to work for ESPN. It should be a challenge for Jim to achieve impartiality because he really enjoyed the former gig of being the Go-2-Guy. We should see some of Jim's new work this week in the PI, but it won't be until later this Spring when he starts covering college football.
Locker playing Baseball
Jake Locker is going to play a little baseball this Summer to keep his stroke from getting too rusty. Jake will not be playing fulltime, and for the most part they are going to be putting him in situations where the risk of injury is pretty slight. Locker is the type of kid that makes MLB Scouts drool when they look at his potential, and I think it is a wise thing for him to keep his hand in the game to keep his options open after college. Jake won't be missing anything football related this summer, and Willingham who also played baseball in college supports the decision.
AD Search
The UW has named an AD search committee to come up with some candidates to take over the job full time in the Fall. Most insiders think that the person they come up with may already be behind the desk in the person on interim AD Scott Woodward. Scott has the political savvy needed to get the stadium renovation done, and he has the advantage of already being involved in the process. Woodward has already dropped plenty of hints that he is enjoying the job. I would put my money on Woodward.
Stadium News
Since we are bringing up the stadium the latest word is funding is dead for this seassion which makes sense since the state is preparing for an economic downturn. There is also the matter of the NBA stepping back in line to secure those funds since three local ownership groups have emerged to either buy the Sonics, or purchase another team and move them to Seattle. The economic reality is whoever purchases the Sonics is going to need either a remodeled facility, or a completely new building to make a go of it. What makes it all different than Clay Bennett is the local ownership groups are willing to pay half, or more of the construction either way they go. Bennett never wanted to pay a dime, he only wanted to chip in funding provided by naming rights.
As far as Husky Stadium goes everyone in State Goverment understands it is a problem that will not go away, and has to be dealt with one way or another. Like anything in the state of Washington it takes time, and usually only an emergency can spure them to action. UW needs to start developing a plan b of some sort to help get this thing going before construction starts on the light rail.
Endowments
The UW is one of 76 universities that reported endowments totaling more than $1 billion in 2007, a trend some members of Congress have labeled disturbing in the face of constant tuition increases. Now Washington, D.C., lawmakers are toying with the idea of requiring universities to spend 5 percent of the burgeoning endowments each year.
The UW has an endowment (money given to it for the purpose of investment) of more than $2 billion, bolstered by a long fundraising campaign, and has kept raising tuition. The cost of an undergraduate year at the UW last year would have paid for three years 20 years earlier."
Congress wants school in the financial position of UW to start spending 5% of those endowments each year to help keep tuitions in line.
Emmert
President Mark Emmert has become a hot commodity in the higher educational field. He recently turned down almost $2 million a year to become the president of Vanderbilt. The Vandy job is the highest paying college President job in the country. Emmert also has been a apprached byt he prestigous UC system. the draw seems to be he is succesful at raing funds, is a fine administrator that gets a long with people, and most importatly he is only 55 years old which means he has at least a decade of service left to perform. Most insiders are pretty confident that Washington will be his last stop sinc ehe is an alumnus, and Puget Sound is home for him.
Softball
Ashlyn Watson hit a grand slam and Aleah Macon struck out 11 to lead No. 25 Washington past No. 1 Alabama at the Husky Softball Classic on Saturday afternoon. Washington improves to 8-5-1 on the season, while handing the Crimson Tide (17-1) their first loss of the season.
Womens Basketball
The womens team is also saving it's best basketball of the season for the end as they knocked off league leading California at home this past weekend. Sami Whitcomb scored 24 points, and hit four 3-pointers during a decisive 18-7 second-half run as Washington stunned No. 9 California 74-66 on Sunday, ruining the Golden Bears' chance at their first Pac-10 title. Laura McLellan added 13 points and 5-foot-5 guard Emily Florence had 11 points.
Husky Crew
Mike Callahan begins his first season as head coach of the legendary Washington Crew. Callahan took over for Rowing Director Bob Ernst who opted to head the Womens program to bring it back to prominence. The Husky men are coming off a National Championship season and are expected to be one of the favorites to win it once again despite many team members taking a year off to compete for national teams.
03/29/08 Class Day Montlake Cut
04/05/08 San Diego Crew Classic San Diego, Calif. (Mission Bay)
04/06/08 San Diego Crew Classic San Diego, Calif. (Mission Bay)
04/12/08 Washington State Montlake Cut
04/19/08 Oregon State Montlake Cut
04/26/08 California Belmont, Calif. (Redwood Shores)
05/03/08 Windermere Cup/Opening Day
05/18/08 Pac-10 Championships Rancho Cordova, Calif. (Lake Natoma)
05/30/08NCAA Women's Championships (Day 1) Rancho Cordova, Calif. (Lake Natoma)
05/31/08 NCAA Women's Championships (Day 2) Rancho Cordova, Calif. (Lake Natoma)
06/01/08 NCAA Women's Championships (Day 3) Rancho Cordova, Calif. (Lake Natoma)
06/05/08 IRA Men's Championships (Day 1) Cherry Hill, N.J. (Cooper River)
06/06/08 IRA Men's Championships (Day 2) Cherry Hill, N.J. (Cooper River)
06/07/08 IRA Men's Championships (Day 3) Cherry Hill, N.J. (Cooper River)
Sunday, March 02, 2008
Huskies Take Cal 87-84
Joe Wolfinger had his second exceptional game in a row leading the Huskies to a 87-84 win over California on Saturday. Joe scored 17 points in 18 minutes off the bench including four three pointers. The Huskies needed an outstanding night from the 7 footer because Jon Brockman was in foul trouble most of the night. The win assures the Huskies a winning record which should help them in their quest for a post season berth.
The key for Wolfinger's resurgence has been improved health, and conditioning. He broke his foot last season and was forced to sit out. It has taken this long for him to regain his stamina and shooting stroke. Joe is rarity because he is sort of a Ryan Appleby in a 7 foot body. His improvement in play is going to be a big bonus to the program over the next three years.
The Huskies face WSU next week before going on to the Pac Ten tournament in Los Angeles.
The key for Wolfinger's resurgence has been improved health, and conditioning. He broke his foot last season and was forced to sit out. It has taken this long for him to regain his stamina and shooting stroke. Joe is rarity because he is sort of a Ryan Appleby in a 7 foot body. His improvement in play is going to be a big bonus to the program over the next three years.
The Huskies face WSU next week before going on to the Pac Ten tournament in Los Angeles.
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