Statement game? For NMB and Northwestern, a telling result

If it's possible to make a statement in spring football, North Miami Beach did that Friday night at Traz Powell Stadium by completely dismantling defending national champion Northwestern 25-0.

Larry Blustein (who posted several details in an earlier blog below), J.T. Wilcox, Charles Fishbein, Bill Daley and I were among the media that watched the game from the sideline and marveled as the Chargers looked sharp from the beginning with quarterback Nico Flores connecting on a 75-yard pass that set up a touchdown pass to Yves Desir, one of Flores' 3 TDs on the night.

NMB's defense ripped through the NW o-line and put pressure on quarterback Wayne Times through most of the game.
The Chargers also exhibited a prolific running game led by Class of 2010 RB Nick Williams.

Williams racked up over 80 yards and WR/DB Kemal Ishmael caught two of the touchdown passes later in the game, and kept the Bulls' receivers in check on defense.

Ishmael even did something unheard of at NMB in recent years - convert an extra point.

"That might be the last one you see for a while," NMB coach Jeff Bertani said, after his team missed the next try, which made the score 13-0.

Bertani was extremely proud with his team's effort after the game, and he should be.

In typical Chargers' fashion, Bertani had 29 players in uniform Friday night. And once again, numbers meant nothing as those 29 had their way with the Bulls.

Granted, it is still the end of May, but for Northwestern's sake, this better have been a fluke. If it hopes to keep its record 30-game winning streak intact much longer, they need to play better up front.

The quarterback play wasn't great, but it could have been helped with better protection. Times had open receivers down field, but was constantly forced out of the pocket. Teddy Bridgewater came in toward the end of the 3rd quarter and made some nice plays with his feet. He looks like a promising athletic player for the future.

Bottom line, NW got beat badly at the line of scrimmage on both sides. The absence of graduated stars Terrell Killings and Brandon Washington was noticeable. On defense, the young players still had their moments, though. Defensive lineman Todd Chandler looks like the playmaker Bulls' fans expect him to be and the secondary made some big plays later in the game.

We knew the Bulls were going to be a lot younger, any one will be hurting after losing the enormous amount of talent they lost to graduation.

But if this game was a serious indication of where this team is at, then in the next 3 months, they need to get tougher and quicker up front to stand up to teams that will likely respect their passing game less, now that Jacory Harris is at the U.

As for the Chargers, this team is looking like a title contender again. It's almost like Bertani brings them off an assembly line. Youngsters like Ricky Desir (2011) and Williams give Charger fans a reason to think the trend will continue in years to come.

They were solid, disciplined and still a force to be reckoned with in what will be a tough Region 3-6A. While everyone is talking about Deerfield Beach and Cypress Bay and Miramar in Broward, the team that has gone 5-1 vs. Broward the past 2 years in the playoffs is alive and well. And with more parity in Dade County than the past three seasons, they look strong enough to make their best run yet.

National champs beaten, 25-0!

Nearly 6,000 fans came to watch the next chapter in Northwestern football on Friday night at Traz Powell Stadium, but what most saw instead was North Miami Beach, a team with just 32 players dressed, rout the Bulls, 25-0, in a game that wasn’t as close as the store indicated.

The Chargers, 12-1 a year ago, took it to the Bulls from the start, using top-rated senior quarterback Nico Flores, who shredded the young Northwestern defense for nearly 300 yards. Underexposed receiver Kemal Ishmael came up with 2 TD receptions and was all over the field.

Coach Jeff Bertani, who we profiled a few weeks back, had his team ready all spring, and in the process, showed that the Chargers will be one of the best 6A teams in the state. Nobody at the game on Friday would argue with how impressive NMB looked.

Here are a few observations from both sides. First of all, the Bulls lost a lot of weapons. They will be better in the fall because there are a few players who could impact the team who were not dressed on Friday.

Senior safety Tevin McCaskill needs work. Right now, he lacks leadership qualities, and this team really needs that. The running game will be solid with Tyresse Jones, Daquan Hargrett and junior Corvin Lamb, and while Wayne Times has the experience at QB, you can guarantee that he will be moved to WR some time in the next few months, opening the way for Class of 2011 standout Teddy Bridgewater (6-3, 170). Receivers Tyrell Lewis and Michaelee Harris are solid.

The OL will be okay with Class of 2010 standouts Torrian Wilson (6-5, 320) and Donald Senat (6-3, 250), and Class of 2009 player Shkendrick Williams (6-3, 260).

Class of 2010 defensive lineman Todd Chandler (6-1, 280) is short and you question what will happen when he has to bang heads with ACC or SEC offensive linemen who are big and athletic as well. But he is a playmaker and is very young.

NMB has Flores, who is the best senior quarterback in Miami. He and Ishmael make up a small senior class that also includes defensive back Yves Desin, receiver Johnathan Cyprien, linebacker Antonio Rogers, linebacker/running back Markeith Russell and lineman Maurice Anderson.

The Chargers are loaded in the Classes of 2010 with receiver Terrance Kinchen, running back Nicolas Williams, and lineman Jiovanni Maldanado and Alex Eduaord.

The Class of 2011 appears to be the strength of this team, which points to the fact that the Chargers will be around for a long time.

Versatile (receiver/quarterback/defensive back) Ritchy Desir, linebackers Max Dorsainvil, Keeon Virgile and Kinley Moise, linemen Freddy Lagueere, Akeem Banton, Cleveland Smith, Wesley Joseph, Jovens Francois and Travis Turner are all quality as well.

LARRY BLUSTEIN

FloridaKids1@hotmail.com

ESPN's Law: Hosmer No. 3 to Royals

With the MLB draft approaching (June 5-6), mock drafts are proliferating. ESPN.com's Keith Law released his first-round projections Friday, projecting American Heritage first baseman (and possible pitching prospect) Eric Hosmer as the No. 3 overall pick to the Kansas City Royals.

Here's what Law wrote in his Insiders-only mock about Hosmer, predicted to be the top prep player picked:

The Royals had sworn off Scott Boras clients after a tough negotiation with Mike Moustakas last summer, but they apparently have decided to have just one more for the road after seeing Hosmer's tremendous upside as a hitter. (They can quit any time.) Brian Matusz also is a consideration here.

Hosmer is the only South Florida high school product projected among the top 30 picks, although Law recently suggested in a blog post that Hosmer's teammate, catcher Adrian Nieto, could go right after:

The Mets are very interested in American Heritage (Fla.) catcher Adrian Nieto, a switch-hitter who has a strong arm and projects to hit for power. Nieto could go in the sandwich round, where he has several suitors, and shouldn't last beyond the second round.

As for Braddock shortstop Harold Martinez, though, the news wasn't as good:

Braddock (Fla.) shortstop Harold Martinez didn't play well on the first day of the Sebring high school showcase on Friday; his swing has gotten longer and he was struggling with routine plays in the field. He also looks a little bit heavier than he did last summer, when he was one of the best players at the AFLAC All-American game.

(Meanwhile, on the Canes front, Law had Yonder Alonso going sixth to the hometown Marlins, but did not have highly touted Jemile Weeks among the first 30 picks.)

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Doing the Hokey Pahokee

PAHOKEE -- OK, fine, ignore the title of this post. The real headline is, with our expanded recruiting coverage (now including Palm Beach County), I caught Thursday night's spring game between Dwyer and Pahokee, featuring a number of potential college recruits.

Here are some observations from a game the Blue Devils won 18-7, with fans sporting brand new t-shirts commemorating last year's state championship (and, on the back in big, white lettering, their No. 6 USA Today ranking -- higher than 4A champion Booker T. Washington's No. 8):

• Pahokee's Nu'Keese Richardson, one of the top recruits in the county (at receiver) played a lot at quarterback and showed some passing prowess, even threading the needle on a 5-yard touchdown toss in the third quarter. But his size (5-8) and athleticism seem like they will push him to that receiver slot.
• On defense, another standout recruit -- linebacker Brandon Hawthorne -- had about a dozen solo tackles and picked up a half a sack late in the fourth quarter. He also punted, but spring games don't allow for any rushes or returns on those plays, so it was hard to tell how good he is there. (Not that his future as a punter outweighs his future on defense...)
• For Dwyer, running back Donald Russell didn't get many carries, but broke a couple of big ones in the second half, showing off his size and power.
• Bradley Wallace, a highly regarded safety prospect, split some snaps at quarterback with underclassman Jacoby Brissett in an attempt to ease Wallace's load.
• Dwyer coach Jack Daniels said offensive line prospect John Bivins no longer is on the team.

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Watch the heat

A 15-year-old football player died in Irvine, Calif., on Wednesday. And although this seemed to be from an apparent asthma attack, it brings to mind all the heat-related illnesses that come as spring turns to summer.

Such a death also occurred yesterday, at North Carolina A&T. Most infamously, it happened with Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle Korey Stringer. And it's definitely something to watch out for as the temperatures rise on tracks and fields everywhere, especially in South Florida.

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

A national championship?

Much was made at the Herald's All-Broward breakfast last Thursday about American Heritage's possible "national championship" in baseball, after the Patriots won the 3A title last Tuesday.

So, with no official national championship in high school baseball, did American Heritage join Miami Northwestern football in winning that "mythical national title"?

Here's a rankings roundup, as of Tuesday afternoon:

• Baseball America: No. 1 in their nearly month-old rankings (April 29), although it's hard to believe the Patriots did much to unseat themselves at the top.
• USA Today: No. 1, as of Monday, the biggest rankings win for the Patriots after their title.
• RISE Magazine: No. 1, as of last week (before they won the title).
• MaxPreps.com: No. 2, curiously behind Georgetown (Texas), which has a 22-7 overall record.
• Rivals.com: No. 4, as of May 21; expect that one to go up.

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Edison has the talent to challenge in 2008

There was a time, a few years back, when Edison was in the hunt for the playoffs every year. After coach Corey Bell left for the University of Miami, the program began to change, looking for a new direction.

The Red Raiders have found that direction with a young coaching staff that believes in discipline, and after last Friday's 14-2 win over South Miami, this is certainly a program that will remain in the mix with Monsignor Pace and Belen in the district.

While there is plenty of talent for the future (Classes 2010 and 2011), the rising senior class is certainly impressive as well.

The Class of 2009 starts with receivers Larry McCoy (6-0, 170), Kenzer Obando (5-11, 160) and Danny Kenol (6-0, 170), running back Paul Johnson (5-11, 175), quarterback Donovan Jackson (6-2, 175) and lineman Willy Rutherford (6-3, 270).

On the defensive side of the ball, the Red Raiders show plenty of improvement with linebackers Rashad Bryant (5-11, 185), David Hinds (6-1, 205), Chauncey Grace (5-10, 180), Labaze Jackson (6-0, 175), Jesper Jean (5-11, 160) and talented Hassan Williams (6-3, 225).

In the secondary, Edison boasts Phillip Thomas (6-0, 180), Abraham Gedeus (5-9, 170), Kerntz Almonor (5-10, 165), Gregory Peguero (5-10, 165) and standout Kevin Augustin (5-11, 190).

There are also linemen Brandon Dunn (6-2, 180), Lavar Brihm (5-11, 180), Darren Baldwin (6-1, 205), Allen Myrthil (6-0, 190), Patrick Tema (6-1, 180), Richard Stuckey (5-10, 220), George Goodman (5-10, 200) and 6-3, 230-pound Brian Proctor, who happens to be the nephew of former Edison and University of Miami standout, Basil Proctor.

The Class of 2010, the rising juniors, are also a group that many believe will help this program turn the corner.

On offense, receivers Darius Johnson (6-3, 170), Richard Tema (5-10, 155) and Hyawatha Joyner (5-10, 160), fullback Solomon Jordan (5-7, 175), running back Jensky Mezadieu (5-8, 150) and impressive linemen Kenneth Howard (5-11, 275), Thomas Bapiste (5-10, 255), Charles Chancellor (6-2, 260), Lionel Valery (6-0, 265), Junior Genoise (6-0, 250), Christopher Gay (6-3, 275), Ronald Bruno (5-10, 280), David Stohclin (6-1, 345).

Defensively, Dion Hanks (5-10, 175), Reginald Evans (5-8, 155), Findjy Dorval (5-8, 155) are quality secondary performers. Linemen Wade Issac (6-2, 240), Michael Descollines (5-10, 177) and Winston Alexis (6-2, 220) are also athletes who will add quality depth.

If you want to make this coaching staff happy, talk about his 2011 players, who are all impressive.

Leading the way is promising running back Devonta Freeman, a 5-10, 170-pounder, who is the next great football player in South Florida. He is joined by fellow running back Corie Wilson (5-10, 170), defensive back Andrew Ranglin (5-10, 175), defensive end William Clayton (5-10, 175), and defensive tackles Dario George (5-10, 190) and Timothy Dunn (5-10, 200).

LARRY BLUSTEIN
FloridaKids1@hotmail.com

Cypress Bay impressive in Blue-White game

With a regular season game at national power Katy (Texas) in October, a district that has one of the nation’s top quarterbacks (Eugene Smith) and a region that includes powers Deerfield Beach, Miramar, North Miami Beach, Miami Central, Columbus and defending national champion Northwestern, Cypress Bay fired the first warning this spring that the Lightning will be ready to play - anyone!

As spring came to an end on Saturday at the ‘Bay with a White/Blue contest, dozens of college coaches, media outlets and fan recruiting websites were on hand with a few hundred fans as the state’s largest school showed off some 2009, 2010 and even 2011 players.

As head coach Mark Guandolo and his staff capped off a solid spring, the fans had the opportunity to watch this impressive football team for the first time, and all on hand who braved 90-plus degree temperatures were treated to a show and a post-game barbecue.

This is a team that is more than the marquee players such as senior linebackers Shane Gordon, Phil Walker and Austin Gamble. The Lightning have more talent than standout defensive back Carl Miles and speedy running back Jason Douglas. What Guandolo has been able to put together in the over a year since taking the job is a team that will be in the mix for a 6A state title.

With many programs down across the region and the state, this is the perfect year for Cypress Bay to play sound football and pull the ultimate surprise - a state title!

The Class of 2009 is impressive on offense with backup quarterback Brandon Yassis, receivers Corey McCabe, Chadsworth Barnes, Joshua Riffel and Max Vasquez. There is also tight end David Martin.

In addition to Douglas and Gordon, who also plays in the offensive backfield, the running game also includes Omar Cabrera, Vincent Mantuo and fullback Craig Dee. The line is very talented with prospects Leslie Tripp, Patrick Ferrero, Matthew Fainer and Kolton Galimba. Kickers Luke Bray and Steven Faucher will also be among the best.

Defensively, the Class of 2009 has Gordon, Walker, Gamble and Miles, but also includes linemen Josh Kelso, Jules Gomez and Laurent Sventz. There are also defensive backs Lance Harstadt, Eddy Cabrera, Angel Corchado and hard-hitting Amari Sapp. Linebackers Anthony Guerra and Miles Doleman add plenty of depth.

The Class of 2010 starts to show just how talented this team will be.

On offense, quarterback Zach Green will be a three-year starter. Running backs David McKnight, Marcus Mason, Bryton Weathers and Collin Robinson add to an already impressive Wing-T attack. There are also receivers Kelby Cox and Juan Gomez.

The offensive line prospects for both 2010 and 2011 has set the table for the future. Joseph McNamara may be one of the nation’s elite prospects who is aggressive, 6-3, 280 and is cat-quick. Others on the line include Roland Gallegos, Christopher Valdes and Jerimiah Nelson.

On defense, the Class of 2010 is in great hands with lineman Kane Connor, linebackers Juan Montoya-Galofrey and Michael Mancino, and defensive backs Alexander Dahl, Alexander Haddad, Damien Brown and Kareem Auguste, who’s brother, Akeem, played for Guandolo at Chaminade-Madonna. Kicker Derek Soven will also add to the competition.

Even the Class of 2011 will make a contribution on the 2008 team. Talented linemen Kyle Jossfolk and Russell James-Haughton will play key roles. So will linebacker Nick Fleming and Enzo Nitto, and defensive linemen Brandon Schoenthal and Grant Burke.

There are other players who were out with injuries in the spring who will also help this team.

LARRY BLUSTEIN

FloridaKids1@hotmail.com

Showing their medal

Sometimes sportsmanship stories can get a little overblown. Perfect example: the nation's slightly excessive fascination last month with the story of the Western Oregon University softball player who was carried around the basepaths by her opponents.

But this one -- also out of the Pacific Northwest -- will be tough to beat, mostly because it involves a different kind of personal sacrifice: a state championship medal.

According to the story, Bellarmine (Wash.) Prep senior Nicole Cochran had just won the 3,200-meter Class 4A state title, setting a personal best (10:36) in the process. Soon after, though, she was disqualified for taking three consecutive steps along the inside line of the track. Andrea Nelson of Shadle Park High School in Spokane, who finished four seconds back, was declared the champion.

Then (from ESPN.com)...

The awards ceremony took place, then Nelson got off the awards stand, walked over to Cochran, removed the first-place medal from around her neck and draped it over Cochran's.

"It's your medal," Nelson said to her, the Tri-City Herald reported. "You're the state champion."

The rest of the top eight finishers then held an impromptu ceremony of their own. Exchanging their medals -- Nelson received the second-place medal, Sarah Lord of Redmond High School took the third-place medal, and so on.

"That's not how you win state," Nelson said. "She totally deserves it. She crushed everybody."

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

St. Thomas simply reloads, once again

Just when you thought it was safe to assume that it would be a tough task to ask the St. Thomas Aquinas football to repeat its 5A state championship run from 2007, spring practice rolled around. There aren’t many asking that question - today!

After nearly a month of sorting out who stayed and which players graduated, coach George Smith and the Raiders slowly filled holes on both sides of the ball.

Closing the book on the spring with annual Blue vs. Gold scrimmage game in front of college coaches, media and recruiting services on Thursday (May 22) at the beautiful, homey confines.

Class of 2009 returnees are led by quarterback Ryan Becker (6-0, 175), and also include running back Beau Bucci (5-9, 170), gifted receivers Duron Carter (6-2, 170) and Dwayne Difton (6-1, 180), and promising tight end prospect Gabe Holmes (6-5, 220). There are also impressive linemen such as Ryan Mousley (6-3, 270), Kevin O’Connell (6-3, 250), highly-regarded transfer Thomas Pizzurro (6-3, 280) and converted tight end, Dylan Drake (6-2, 200).

On the defensive side, the class is impressive as well with lineman Jean Luc Charles (5-11, 230) and William Nesselt (6-3, 240). There is also linebacker Conor O’Neill (6-1, 190), who was an All-Herald Broward County first team football and baseball, and emerging safety prospect Dezman Southward (6-1, 200).

The Raiders may have one of the nation’s elite punters in Benjamin Turk, a Tim Conrad-trained athlete, who has a chance to average in the high 40s this season.

While the senior class has leadership and talent, the underclassmen at St. Thomas are what make this program one to be in the mix for at least the next two years - and beyond!

The Class of 2010 starts on offense with major college running back prospect Giovanni Bernard (5-9, 195) and James White (5-11, 180), and promising speedster Ethan Grant (5-9, 170). Moving to the line, it’s apparent that this is where it will continue to be successful with gifted prospects Brandon Linder (6-4, 280) and Jermaine Barton, a 6-7, 320-pounder.

On defense, linebacker Vinnie Mauro (6-1, 195), cornerbacks Abayomi Ayoola (5-9, 175), Vladimir Rock (5-8, 160) and Cody Riggs (5-10, 170), who is the son of former NFL standout Gerald Riggs, and safeties Brian Robinson (6-0, 180) and physical Reynaldo Kirton (6-1, 180) showcase enormous athletic ability.

The Raiders are also equipped in the Class of 2011 with impressive defensive lineman Kenny Hankerson (5-11, 200), and quarterbacks Jacob Rudock (5-10, 160) and promising varsity newcomer Brent Armitage. Hankerson is a converted running back.

Another Conrad-coached special, kicker Michael Palardy, is one of the best, young specialists in the country - already!

Could it be Lakeland-St. Thomas 4? The Raiders appear to be headed back to the state finals - yet again.

College football coaches love South Florida

The best thing about spring, at least for me, is to talk with and meet the college coaches that roam the sidelines for practices or at games to get a look at some of the top-flight athletes we have here in South Florida.

From the Palm Beaches to Key West, hundreds of college coaches take advantage of the impressive month-long spring football we have here and feast on athletes that are simply unmatched anywhere else in the country.

Having the pleasure to talk with many coaches throughout the course of a year, it's always nice to catch up in person and talk about some of the rising stars of the gridiron here in our football hotbed.

Some schools spend the entire month of May somewhere in our area – from talking with coaches and academic people during the day – to watching spring workouts in the afternoon, which truly measure what the athlete is all about on the football field.

While I have been to some 40 schools already in this area and more out of the area and into Georgia this spring, running into college coaches from UCF, USF, Georgia, Florida, FSU and Miami has become common place. But there are so many other schools that don't get the publicity that actually use this spring to fill out their rosters.

Western Michigan and Central Michigan have more players from the state of Florida than any school outside the state. Auburn, Clemson, Wake Forest, Rutgers and Louisville are loaded with our products as well.

This is the time of year when seeing coaches from Mississippi St., Michigan St., Iowa St., Indiana, Northern Illinois and Wisconsin, Louisiana Monroe, Oregon St. and others talking about the athletes as if they actually lived here year round. You can rattle off some 20 elite players and every college coach knows how fast they run, their parents name and phone number. That's where recruiting has come to.

While many believe the talent level is down in our area from last year, without the marquee players from Northwestern and Booker T. Washington, keep in mind that when the dust settles in February, there will be the same amazing 200-plus football players signing D1A scholarships from this region, which is an amazing number of quality football talent. North and South Dakota haven't had that many combined in the past 14 years, but then again, we don't churn out top-flight ice hockey players, either.

If you've been out to games and have watched some rising 2010, 2011 and 2012 standouts, drop us a line. I know the coaches who cover this area would love to hear about the future stars as well.

LARRY BLUSTEIN
FloridaKids1@hotmail.com

St. Thomas' Smith gets honor

Longtime St. Thomas Aquinas football coach (and athletic director) George Smith, who led the Raiders to the 5A football title after three consecutive years of championship-game hearbreak, will be honored by the American Football Coaches Association.

From the FHSAA:

GAINESVILLE – George Smith, the football coach and athletic director at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Fort Lauderdale, will be honored by the American Football Coaches Association as the 2008 Power of Influence Award recipient during the association's Coach of the Year dinner at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville, Tenn. on Jan. 13, 2009.

The Power of Influence Award was created by the AFCA to honor a deserving high school football coach for his effect on his players, school and community, including community service, mentoring and role modeling. It is the first AFCA award specifically designed to honor a high school coach.

"The FHSAA would like to add its gratitude and thanks to George for all that he has done for the student-athletes in our state," said FHSAA Executive Director John A. Stewart. "No one we know is more deserving of this honor."

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Honors continue to roll in for Shawn Barry

American Heritage senior defender Shawn Barry, who scored 13 goals and assisted on four others, was named to the Parade All-American team this week.

It is the second national honor Barry received in as many weeks. Last week, he was named the Gatorade National Player of the Year.

With all these awards, can Barry win a second consecutive Miami Herald Boys' Soccer Player of the Year Award for Classes 4A-2A? What do you think?

Find out Thursday morning at the annual All-Broward Athletic Awards at the Signature Grand in Davie.

NFL's (and Taravella's) Morgan retires

Oft-injured NFL linebacker Dan Morgan, who signed with the Saints this offseason, called it quits Monday.

And although he's better-known as yet another a UM-star-turned-Pro Bowler, Morgan has an even more local connection: He's a Coral Springs kid who played his high school football at Taravella -- much of it at running back (the Canes even reportedly recruited him at that position).

Check out this excerpt from an old Herald roundup, circa September 1996:

The county's leading rusher displayed his durability and consistency when he carried the ball 249 times for 1,332 yards last year without a fumble. This summer, he worked with a trainer to increase his strength and speed. Morgan, who is 6-3 and 217 pounds, gained about 15 pounds and dropped his 40 time to 4.4. On defense, he will switch from inside linebacker to free safety. Florida, Florida State and Miami all have offered him a scholarship.

Of course, according to the archives, Morgan's injury propensity would show up during that 1996 senior season, with collarbone and toe ailments. He did rebound, becoming the 11th overall pick in 2001 (Panthers) and earned a 2004 Pro Bowl bid. But concussions and, ultimately, a leg injury cut his career short. From today's AP story:

"When we signed Dan, he was committed to making a fresh start, and he was making every effort to rehabilitate the leg injury that he suffered last year," Saints coach Sean Payton said. "But it wasn't responding as well as he had hoped. We wish him well in his continued recovery, and he will be remembered for the excellent player he was during his career."

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Umm, ouch...

While covering the 1A and 2A state track championships last month, I wondered allowed why Florida doesn't have a javelin competition (my high school's home state, Kansas, does).

Maybe this is why:

PROVO, Utah -- Ryan McGeeney served seven years in the Marines, including a six-month deployment in Afghanistan, but 10 minutes of photographing the state high school track championships proved to be more dangerous to him.

Hours after his leg was pierced by a javelin at BYU's Clarence Robison track stadium, McGeeney was fortunate to be able to appreciate the irony.

The Standard-Examiner photographer was struck below the knee by a javelin while shooting the discus event shortly after 9 a.m. Saturday, delaying the events while an ambulance pulled onto the track to take him to Utah Valley Regional Medical Center.

"They don't have javelins in Afghanistan," McGeeney joked after returning a few hours later to continue shooting photos of the track meet. "That's where I'm lucky."

McGeeney was watching a Top of Utah competitor in a girls discus event at the north end of the track infield when he was skewered just below the right knee by a javelin from the south side.

Of course...

Provo High javelin thrower Anthony Miles felt terrible about the accident, though McGeeney reassured him it was not his fault.

"My heart just stopped, and when I heard that he was going to be OK, it was just a nice relief that he was going to be all right," Miles said.

And the rest of the story?

The throw was measured by the event judges and sealed the state 4-A javelin title for Miles, he said.

"My very last throw I think I beat it by three inches (170-feet, 9-inches), but still with that throw, I would have taken state."

Now wouldn't that just add to the excitement?

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Loss To Northwestern still stings Deerfield

It was nearly seven months ago, but for Deerfield Beach football coach Art Taylor and his team, the heart-breaking loss to Northwestern in the Orange Bowl is something that they think about as they prepare for this Friday's spring game at 5A Palm Bay.

Being less than two minutes from its second 6A state finals appearance in three years, the Bucks saw the dream fall apart as the Bulls went 99 yards and left the team with an empty feeling.

As the attention shifts to 2008, Taylor's talented team returns 15 players from a group that handed St. Thomas Aquinas its only loss during an 11-3 season.

Coming back for another shot is senior quarterback Denard Robinson (5-11, 180), who is as gifted a player as you get at this level. This speedy (4.38) athlete went over 2,000 total yards and has schools from UCF to West Virginia and Purdue watching his progress.

The Class of 2009 also includes safety Adrian Witty (5-11, 185), who also put up some fast (4.4) numbers at combines in the off season. There are also receiver Travis McDonald (6-2, 185), defensive tackle Johnny Seays (6-0, 220), offensive/defensive lineman Raymond Newton (6-1, 215) and cornerback Elliott Atkins (5-9, 165), who is considered one of the emerging cover-corners.

Class of 2010 running back Cassius McDowell surprised everyone last year by running for 966 yards and 13 touchdowns. Another rising junior to keep an eye on is defensive back/quarterback Donte Dotson, a 5-9, 165-pounder.

One of the players to watch for in the Class of 2011 is free safety Khambral Garland (5-10, 175), who is quick and athletic. He had four interceptions a year ago.

LARRY BLUSTEIN
FloridaKids1@hotmail.com

Baseball's new regional format

A few things of note, following up on today's story about baseball's new regional format (a best-of-3 series, as opposed to one game):

• As noted, eight of the nine South Florida baseball coaches said they liked the idea behind new format -- at least a little -- considering it a fairer way to decide who goes to the state final four. The only dissenter: Goleman coach Manny Yanez. "I kind of liked the one-game format," said Yanez, whose team swept its regional. "...Nobody's playing two out of three or three out of five in basketball or football."
• Miami Christian's Armando Rodriguez wasn't emphatically in favor of the new system -- his team lost two straight to Bruce Charlebois' squad after winning the first -- preferring a best-of-3 format in the state final (Paul McLaughlin of the FHSAA addressed this in the story, though, saying time restrictions will almost certainly prevent that from happening).
• Nova coach Pat McQuaid was concerned with the quick turnaround for 2A and 5A schools, whose semifinals in Sarasota began Wednesday -- not so much because of what happened (weather allowed all regionals to end Saturday, as scheduled), but what could have happened (what if weather pushed them back to Monday?). "Hopefully they'll come to a consensus so they rotate that around a little bit [among classes]," McQuaid said.
• Brito's Pedro Guerra, through an interpreter, was the only coach not to openly question the doubleheader (easily the most contentious issue). "As long as you train the players," he said, "there's not going to be a problem."

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

South Florida's successful softballers

If you were watching ESPN2 this afternoon, you might have heard the words "from Hollywood, Fla." -- in reference to Charisse Mariconda, a St. Thomas Aquinas graduate and Virginia Tech softball player who was in the Hokies' lineup against Tennessee (announcer Pam Ward also called Mariconda "a nifty little third baseman" in the Hokies' 4-0 win.

Of Course, Mariconda's not the only South Florida softballer in the NCAAs regionals, being played this weekend nationwide:

• Houston senior Angel Shamblin (Hollywood Christian) threw a perfect game Friday in a 9-0 win against Delaware State.
• Stanford junior Missy Penna (Miami Southwest) struck out 14 batters Friday in a 4-0 win against Massachusetts.
• Pace's Kelley Montalvo, an Alabama junior, went 2 for 3 with two runs and an RBI in Friday's 10-1 win over Jacksonville State.
• UF's Tiffany DeFelice (American Heritage), UCF's Hillary Barrow (Felix Varela), USF's Cat Olnick (American Heritage), Auburn's Krista Clyde (Cypress Bay) and Tatiana Fernandez (Dade Christian), and Stony Brook's Casey Jacobs (Chaminade-Madonna) and Alyssa Struzenberg (Cooper City) all saw action Friday. UF's Stephanie Bronbacher (American Heritage), UCF's Diana Rojas (Lourdes), Auburn's Lauren Schmalz (Everglades), Notre Dame's Shannon Kelly (Hollywood Christian), Alabama's Crissy Owens (Braddock) and Florida State's Robyn Petrovich (South Plantation) also are on regional teams.

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Clauss headed to George Washington

Cooper City pitcher Kara Clauss will play softball at George Washington University next season. Clauss will join the Atlantic-10 school after going 10-4 and leading Cooper City to the Region 3-6A final in 2008 (a 2-1 loss to Palm Beach Gardens).

Clauss also no-hit Flanagan in the regional semifinal. She'll join a Colonials squad that went 12-27 in 2008.

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Time to talk tennis, too

In working on a story about two North Carolina-bound Broward tennis players: Cypress Bay's Brennan Boyajian (this year's 4A champion) and Sagemont's Zach Hunter (the 1A overall winner), I came across some recent USTA junior rankings for boys and girls.

Plenty of Broward and Dade players were on these lists. And while that's probably not surprising, tennis is one of those sports that sometimes gets overlooked by many (I, too, am guilty as charged, as Dewey Cox would say).

Top 100 boys (18-and-under; as of May 15):

• Boyajian, No. 11
• William Federhofer (Dr. Krop High), No. 35
• Spencer Wolf (Coral Springs), No. 50
• Jeffrey Morris (Cypress Bay High), No. 53
• Hunter, No. 63
• Luke Mojika (Palmetto Sr. High), No. 67

Top 100 girls (18-and-under; as of May 15):

• Courtney Clayton (St. Thomas Aquinas High), No. 10
• Monica Chow (Miami), No. 13
• Rachel Saiontz (Ransom Everglades School), No. 15
• Alexandra Anghelescu (Weston), No. 35
• Julie Sabacinski (American Heritage School), No. 60
• Cassandra Herzberg (Miami Country Day School), No. 67

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Pines Charter finishes at No. 4

After an undefeated start and five weeks at the top, Pembroke Pines Charter fell to No. 4 in USA Today's softball rankings after losing the 4A title game to Naples on Saturday. The Jaguars ended the season 30-1.

Naples jumped into the top 25, grabbing the final spot. Palmetto, which won the 6A championship by beating Palm Beach Gardens on Saturday, was listed in the "also receiving consideration" category.

(These rankings aren't final, though, as most other states haven't finished their seasons.)

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Northwest Christian making a comback

It was the summer of 1982 when I first met Derwin Jones, a larger than life athlete at Miami's Northwest Christian School. As he walked out to practice, it was hard to tell whether he was a coach or a player. He was huge, athletic looking and a very nice young man.

On the day I went to see Jones, 22 college coaches had settled in off N.W. 135th St. to get a look at a rare major college prospect at a school that had its share of talent, but nothing like this impressive student/athlete. He would go on to star at the University of Miami, proving that school size had little bearing in the state of Florida.

Over 20 years have gone by, and while Jones, who was a starter on the 1987 team that finished 12-0, has tragically passed on, his memory is still very much alive on this campus.

While the names and faces have changed, the objective is still the same. Those who remembered what Jones represented at this school, understand that while football is important, it's life and the lessons that you learn, that still takes center stage.

At a time when this program has hit a rocky road, losing 19 of the last 20 games (including 0-10 last year), things may be looking up for second year coach David Chase and the Eagles. While they will play an intrasquad game at the school this Friday (1:30 p.m.) to rekindle school spirit, Chase, who has been at the school for 19 years and serves as the Youth Minister, knows that turning this once proud program around will take work.

This time of year, you can take your pick where to watch spring practices around South Florida. I choose not only to see a St. Thomas, Pahokee, Vero Beach, Northwestern and Naples, but also stop and open everyone's eyes to schools like Northwest Christian.

On Wednesday, before watching Miami Central's explosive Rockets, I stopped by to see what the Eagles have for the 2008 season, and while the numbers are low, the optimism is certainly high.

It's a small senior class, with two-way lineman Rashaad Ferdinand (6-5, 310), linebacker Christopher Maignan, center Carlos Mareira, three-sport speedster Johnny Jean-Pierre, offensive guard Jose Pereda, and running back/linebacker Cory Perry expected to step up and lead this program back.

"We are excited about the players in this program and at the school," Chase said. "All the coaches are employed at the school, which also helps out so much in the overall development of the program."

If the Eagles are going to get back into mix as a 1B power, the underclassmen will have plenty to say. Class of 2010 players such as quarterback/running back Anthony Carson, offensive lineman/tight end Evel Cevere, speedy running back Paul Georges finished fourth in the state in the 100, and tight end/defensive end Isaac Therlonge will need to make a contribution as well.

The Eagles get younger with Class of 2011 receiver Alain Alexandre, lineman Nickcason Joseph, two-way lineman Jermel Stuart and rising star athlete Herve Swaby (6-2, 180), who will make a contribution.

Chase also expects 2012 standouts Gerven Georges, running back/safety Courtney Roberts, defensive back/receiver Anthony Therlonge and tight end Fritzroy Wilkes (6-3, 160) to add depth. Even 6-1, 210-pound lineman Samuel Rogers is being talked about as a player for the present and the future. By the way, he is in the Class of 2013!

While Northwest Christian may not light the world on fire over the next year, you can expect to find coaches, administration and students who care about bringing the school back to what it once was, and the memory of Derwin Jones, even for the youngster who had never heard of him, should provide enough light and positive energy to follow.

LARRY BLUSTEIN
FloridaKids1@hotmail.com

A few signings...

This story in today's Herald highlighted a few signings from Archbishop McCarthy (which took place today at the school). Here's an updated list, with a couple of corrections/additions/updates:

• Football: Carlos Gonzalez, Bridgewater (Va.); Billy Scott, Concordia (Wisc.).
• Basketball: Jamar Gopie, Elms (Mass.); Jimmy Nolan, George Mason (walk-on); Mike Savery, Methodist (N.C.).
• Baseball: Alan Avila, Nova Southeastern; Sal Costanzo, Vassar (N.Y.); Chris Turnio, Nova Southeastern.
• Softball: Katie Mansilla, North Carolina St.; Alexa Martinez, Auburn.
• Soccer: Matt Delisle, Stetson; Kelsey Dunning, St. Thomas; Christine Mastandrea, Ave Maria (Fla.).
• Track: Andrew Deleo, Clemson; Alex Hueck, Mars Hill (N.C.); Gus Vazquez Milan, Kansas St.
• Wrestling: Colby Borchetta, Michigan State.
• Also, Armani Appolon (basketball/volleyball) and Jonathan Ramirez (football) still are undecided, according to the school.

Elsewhere in Broward, Cooper City basketball player Cayla Aaron will sign Monday with Fairmont (W.V.) State, a Division-II school that won the West Virginia Intercollegiate Conference's tournament last season and was ranked as high as 10th in D-II. She'll receive a full scholarship.

Congrats to these students, and athletes/parents/coaches/readers -- as always -- are encouraged to keep us posted on any other signing news.

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Spring sports' scholastic stars

The FHSAA has released the top spring-sports teams, GPA-wise, for 2008. In Broward, Archbishop McCarthy, Westminster Academy and Pine Crest stood out, while Gulliver Prep represented Dade.

South Florida's teams (all of those recognized have a combined GPA of 3.0 or higher):

• Archbishop McCarthy: Baseball (3.071, fifth in 4A); Softball (3.100, sixth in 4A); Boys' Tennis (3.505, fourth in 1A); Boys' Track (3.215, fifth in 2A); Girls' Track (3.395, sixth in 2A).
• Gulliver Prep: Softball (3.119, ninth in 3A); Boys' Lacrosse (3.138, fourth in single class); Boys' Water Polo (3.229, fifth in single class); Girls' Water Polo (3.205, eighth in single class); Boys' Tennis (3.010, eighth in 2A); Girls' Tennis (3.246, eighth in 2A); Boys' Track (3.160, seventh in 2A); Girls' Track (3.351, eighth in 2A).
• Pine Crest: Baseball (3.343, second in 3A); Boys' Weightlifting (3.513, first in 1A).
• Westminster Academy: Softball (3.388, fourth in 2A); Girls' Water Polo (3.767, first in single class); Boys' Tennis (3.783, first in 1A); Girls' Tennis (3.644, fourth in 1A); Girls' Track (3.611, third in 1A).

Winners (Pine Crest boys' weightlifting, Westminster Academy girls' water polo and boys' tennis) will receive a state championship plaque.

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Breaking news: Florida produces football talent

Nifty little time-waster, courtesy of USA Today: a database of every NFL draft pick since 1988, which can be sorted by, among other things, college, college state, college conference and high school state (based on the player's first high school).

How does Florida compare, high school-wise? Pretty well (surprise, surprise), with 565 draft picks -- third only to California (732) and Texas (592). On the other end, Maine and Vermont have produced exactly zero picks in those 21 years (but probably a decent hockey player or two).

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Ely is on the rise – again!

While last year had plenty of ups and downs for coach James Jones and the Ely Tigers, this spring has brought a new enthusiasm to a program that has been one of the most productive through the years.

With the nation's top cornerback, Patrick Johnson, now moving on, the focus has been on one of the area's top prospect, Michael Carter, who has been looked at by schools such as Florida, West Virginia, Georgia, Miami, Georgia Tech and Minnesota, where his cousin Tyrone was a standout.

Last year, Carter had 35 tackles, 18 pass breakups, seven interceptions, and four defensive touchdowns.

While Carter is getting most of the attention, this is a program that certainly remains in the playoff hunt once again this season with players like Class of 2009 linebacker Brandon Sims and defensive end Malcolm Ricks, and Class of 2011 standout defensive lineman Akeem McCloud.

The Tigers have had their share of quality running backs through the years with players such as Tyrone Moss, Rod Baker, Nick Davis, Henri and Zack Crockett and Jones, who went to Florida and then made an impact with the Detroit Lions. One of the up-and-coming stars is 6-0, 205-pound Bobby Spencer reminds many fans of one-time standout Dou Innocent.

Don't forget that we will be following football recruiting year-round. We have some impressive coverage coming up with our Recruiting Team on the road every day.

Nick Williams still fighting -- and throwing

Donna Pappas had to put me on hold Sunday. And who could blame her? Turns out her son, Nick Williams, was expecting some more visitors.

Williams, the 16-year-old Cardinal Gibbons junior injured in a one-car wreck May 4, still is in the hospital, still heavily sedated and still on a respirator, according to Pappas. He has a fever and contracted pneumonia -- that's upsetting, Pappas said, but normal for a person in his condition -- but is showing some positive signs.

In fact, he even threw a pillow.

"He was going to kill a volleyball one way or another," Pappas joked.

More positives: Pappas said doctors hope to have Williams off the respirator in "a couple days," although they're not committing to anything just yet. Plus, there's still a ton of support, everything from flower bouquets to those visitors who keep flowing in -- everyone from Williams' chemistry teacher to his uncle, who Pappas said came in this weekend from Marin County, Calif.

And the word continues to spread about Williams, Pappas said, who wore No. 2 on the court this year.

"God willing, if he's able to play next year," she said, "I can assure you, it won't be like, 'Who's that No. 2, anyway?'"

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

ESPN love for 2 Patriots

They have bigger things to worry about -- at least in the short term -- with the 3A state baseball title on the line next week, but American Heritage first baseman/pitcher Eric Hosmer and catcher Adrian Nieto appeared on Keith Law's top 60 draft prospects list (available to Insiders only) on ESPN.com.

For non-Insiders: Hosmer came in at No. 5, also the second-rated high schooler on the list. Nieto is 39th.

Also, three University of Miami players -- St. Thomas' Dennis Raben (26th), Yonder Alonso (18th) and Jemile Weeks (30th) -- are top-60 players.

The draft is June 5-6.

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

This has nothing to do with South Florida...

...but still a crazy story out of Texas: High schooler Bonnie Richardson single-handedly (and single-leggedly...or would it be double-leggedly?) won the University Interscholastic League's 1A girls' track team title this weekend, as the only qualified athlete from Rochelle High School.

Richardson's title march began with field events on Friday when she won the high jump (5 feet, 5 inches), placed second in the long jump (18-7) and was third in the discus (121-0).

On Saturday, she won the 200 meters in 25.03 seconds and nearly pulled off a huge upset in the 100 before finishing second (12.19) to defending champion Kendra Coleman of Santa Anna. Richardson, a junior, earned a total of 42 team points to edge team runner-up Chilton (36).

It was a good thing the 1A events were split over two days because Richardson said the heat — temperatures were in the high 90s both days — might have knocked her down. She laughed off a suggestion that she could have won more if UIL rules didn't limit individual participation to five events.

"I don't think I could handle any more," she said. "It was hot and I was tired."

Needless to say, it took more than one athlete for the Southridge teams, the St. Thomas Aquinas boys and Westminster Academy boys to win their 2008 team titles.

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Miami Palmetto wins 6A softball title

This is it. The final game of the 2008 softball season. Miami Palmetto faces Palm Beach Gardens at 4 p.m. for the Class 6A title in Plant City.

Remember to hit F5 for updates.

Kelly Saco pitching for Palmetto. Brittany Bowles pitching for PBG.

After one, no score.

Bowles walked one in the first and one in the second. After a sac bunt by Emily Stephens, runner on second with two out in the bottom of the second for Palmetto. Claire Rocawich struck out to end the inning. Still no score.

After three, still no score. Maybe this is the time for this reminder: PBG took 10 innings to win Friday night's semifinal. We may be here a while folks.

The Gators took a 1-0 lead in the fourth after back-to-back singles and errors. Courtney Ewing singled to shortstop Claire Rocawich, who fired high of first baseman Jackie Houk. Then Brittany Human singled to center, but Cristi Pardinas misplayed the ball, which allowed Ewing to score.

Palmetto retired in order in the fourth and still trails 1-0.

Saco worked out of trouble in the fifth after the first two players reached. She retired the final three batters to get out of the inning.

Palmetto was retired in order in the fifth. Bowles still has not allowed a hit. Did I jinx her?

Yes I did. Courtney Ray singled to right-center. Saco walked. Ray took third on a fielder's choice, but was stranded when Tiffany Mullins-Diaz struck out.

PBG leads 1-0 heading into the seventh.

Palmetto is up, trailing 1-0, bottom of seventh.

Palmetto has runners on second and third with two out. (Guzman reached on an error and Rocawich singled to left). Courtney Ray at bat. Ray draws an unintentional (yet intentional) walk.

Cristi Pardinas drew a bases loaded walk to tie the score. Saco flew out to left to end the inning. We're going to the eighth.

The Gators failed to score in the top of the eighth.

Guzman singles in the eighth, but does not score. Heading into the ninth (which ties the longest championship game in FHSAA softball).

Bottom of the ninth, still 1-1.

We have a record. This is now the longest championship game in the state's history. PBG draws a walk with two outs, but no score. Bottom of 10 is upcoming.

We're heading to the 11th. (Just wondering: Is anyone reading this?)

Palm Beach Gardens loaded the bases in the 11th on a single by Kelsey Hensel and walks by Kaylie Wallace and Haley Fleming. Saco got Brittany Ewing to strike out to end the inning.

Bowles retires the side in the bottom of the 11th. We're heading to the 12th.

Theoretical question -- If I keep typing and no one is reading this, does it matter if I keep typing?

If you're reading this, please send food. The media is starving in the press box and the food ran out hours ago. Drinks would be helpful too. All that is left is some Gatorade that's been in a cooler for six hours and the ice has melted. We're hungry and thirsty. Help!

Gardens loads the bases with none out int he 12th. Uh oh. Could be trouble for Palmetto.

Wow. Unbelievable.

Bootsie Roesch grounded to Saco, who fired home to get the lead runner. Catcher Amanda Marquez threw out the runner at third for the double play. Saco then got Hensel to pop out to first to end the inning. We're now going to the bottom of the 12th (where I predict the game will end).

And thank you to my readers - TR, CJ Radi, Anxiously awaiting and Bobby. How's that for some shout outs?

Courtney Ray reached on a two-out single and stole second. Pardinas at bat. Pardinas walks. Saco at bat. Saco sends a bouncer to shortstop Bootsie Roesch who boots it. Ray scores. Palmetto is the champ.

-- BOB EMANUEL JR.

Pembroke Pines Charter fails for its quest for gold

Welcome to the final day of the FHSAA softball finals.

Pembroke Pines Charter, ranked first in the nation by The USA Today, goes for the Class 4A championship against Naples. Game time is 1 p.m.

Hit F5 to refresh for the latest updates.

Audrey Broyles gets the start for the Jags, the designated home team. Lauren "Strikeout King" Sewell is at first. Sewell struck out 13 in five innings in Friday's semifinal.

Broyles retires first three batters. No score after the top of the first.

Pines goes down 1-2-3 in the bottom of the inning.

Done through two. No score. Both pitchers have no-hitters going, although both issued second-inning walks.

Uh oh. Broyles walked the lead off hitter, and Ashley Pinkerton reached on a bunt single (then stole second). Runners on second and third with one out.

Ryan Iamurri singles to right to score a run. Outfielder Alicia Sisco bobbles the ball, which allows a second run to score. Naples leads 2-0 heading into the bottom of the third.

After three, Pines Charter still behind 2-0. Sewell is now pitching. Broyles is at first.

Pines Charter finally gets its first hit - a Kandyce Redondo single to left - but still trails 2-0 after four.

Second hit for the Jags and it counts pretty big. Sewell smashes a shot over the left field fence and now trails 2-1. Cassie Sigler follows with a single to left. Shayla Jackson, who was 0-6 in Plant City, drove a shot to left-center to score Sigler from first. The score is now tied at 2 heading into the sixth.

After the longest half inning in the history of mankind, Naples takes a 5-2 lead. Ragan bell hit into a fielder's choice to drive in a run and Alexis Farnella singled to right to score two.

Pines Charter strands one in the sixth and still trails 5-2 heading into the seventh.

The Jags get their final chance here. Heading into the bottom of the seventh with a three-run deficit.

Britanie Block grounds out to second. One out. Pinch hitter. Gina Bondarenko at bat. Bondarenko grounds out to short. Cassie Sigler at bat. Strike out. Game over. Pines is 30-1 and state runner-up. Naples wins its 10th championship.

-- BOB EMANUEL JR.

In case you missed it...

Five Broward baseball teams had regionals Friday night. The Herald was there for American Heritage's sweep of Chaminade-Madonna and the Highlands Christian-Miami Christian split, and had a bit on Flanagan's loss to streaking Lake Worth Park Vista (the Cobras now have won 29 in a row), but wasn't in Stuart for Nova's two-game loss to South Fork.

Here's some detail, courtesy of the Stuart News:

The Bulldogs hit six home runs to beat Davie-Nova 15-7 in Game 1 of the best-of-three regional final on Friday. In Game 2, South Fork clawed, gambled and sprinted for four fortuitous sixth-inning runs to beat the Titans 7-3 and clinch state berth.

Kyle Hunter, Dan Harper and Will Claunch all homered for South Fork as part of a seven-run fifth-inning of Game 1.

Nick Zaharion (2) and Blake Cilwick also homered for the Bulldogs. South Fork starting pitcher Tyson Young (5-3) didn't have his best outing, but he grueled through five innings and came away with the victory.

Nova's Game 2 starter Patrick Morris was handed a 3-0 first-inning lead and coasted through the front half of the game. Leading 3-1 in the sixth, South Fork's Robert Bednar reached on an error, the next two batter's singled and Kyle Hunter reached on a second error.

Tyson Young hit a pop up to short right field, but coach Mike Harper still sent Mike Beck from third. Beck scored easily after an errant throw. Spencer Dickinson followed with an infield single, and Harper gambled again, sending Kyle Hunter from second to increase the lead to 5-3.

That means, depending on the Highlands Christian-Miami Christian result (1 p.m. today), Broward could be down to one team in the 2008 spring high school season.

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Scouting American Heritage

One of the more enjoyable pastimes while enjoying our national pastime: Chatting with and/or overhearing scouts as they evaluate local prospects -- and nobody in Broward has more prospects than American Heritage (10-0 and 11-6 winners over Chaminade-Madonna on Friday in their regional-final doubleheader).

One scout claimed four players -- first baseman/pitcher Eric Hosmer, cather Adrian Nieto, outfielder Joey Belviso and pitcher JuanCarlos Sulbaran -- are certain selections in the draft, set for June 5 and 6. Another added pitcher Greg Conver to that list.

Either way, here are some observations from the game behind the game Friday night:

• To nobody's surprise, Hosmer is the top prospect. One scout I talked to called him a "consensus" first-rounder who has "all the tools."
• But...it's not just because of Hosmer's tools as a hitter (build, athleticism, power, left-handed bat, imposing presence in the batter's box). When Hosmer took the mound in the fifth inning of Game 2, the dozen-plus scouts -- weary from watching two games' worth of baseball in 90-degree heat -- became rejuvenated, pulling out radar guns and buzzing about his potential as a pitcher (he has been clocked as high as 96). He threw in the low 90s most of the night -- until his game-ending 94-mph fastball that struck out Cory Guenot.
• Speaking of radar guns, Sulbaran spent most of the first game -- a hot, 4 p.m. start, which might have zapped him a bit -- in the high 80s and low 90s, mixing in some nice offspeed stuff. The scout I spoke with the most was impressed by his polish (calling him a sixth-round prospect this year), but liked Conver -- who didn't pitch Friday -- even more, because of his raw athleticism and height advantage. (For what it's worth, I covered one of Conver's starts earlier this year, and he looked outstanding; he struck out 11.)
• During the second game, the ball escaped Nieto on a strikeout with a runner on first. But instead of settling for the easy out, Nieto gunned the ball to second and nailed the would-be base stealer. One scout loved this. "No fear," he said of Nieto. "None."
• I asked a scout about Flanagan shortstop Rolando Gomez, about whom I've written before. He said Gomez would be a "good college player" (he's signed with University of Miami), but his size (at around 5-9 or so) worried him. "Someone will like him, though," the scout said.

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Pembroke Pines Charter softball (12-1 victory)

Pines Charter, the nation's top-ranked team, is up next in a Class 4A semifinal against Baker County. Remember, hit F5 to refresh.

Pines Charter already ahead 3-0 in the second. Kandyce Redondo doubled to drive in a run in the first, and Audrey broyles followed with an RBI-single.

In the second, the Jags got a run when Brianna Chierico reached and took second and third all on one throwing error. She scored on a sacrifice fly by Cassie Sigler.

Lauren Sewell is pitching for Pines and got the first three batters to strike out, all on three pitch at-bats. Oops, Sewell is human. She threw five balls in the second innig, along with nine strikes. Six strike outs through two innings. This could be a quick one.

Jags up 6-0 now after hanging three on Baker County in the third. This is going to be a quick recap.

I wish I would have brought some K signs to hang from the press box for Sewell. She's up to eight through three innings, but she did allow two runners - a walk and a double.

Pines Charter loads the bases in the fourth. Brittany Pugh lined out, and Sewell popped out. Britanie Block drew a walk for a run, and Chierico grounded out to end the inning. Jags up 7-0.

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz. Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.

Oops, sorry. Dozed off there for a minute. This one is not very exciting.

The only suspense left here is how many strikeouts Sewell will finish with and where I will go for dinner.

Jags put up five in the fifth. Oh mercy me. This is about to end any second. Score is 12-0. Three more outs and we get a run-rule.

Kandyce Redondo is dancing to the YMCA. Oops, now Cassie Sigler is doing it as well. Yes folks, it really is so boring I'm resorting to mentioning the Village People. Groan.

Stop the presses! Pines Charter gave up a run - only the 13th time they gave one up in 30 games.  Thankfully though, this one is over. Sewell finished with 13 strike outs. Jags win 12-1.

-- BOB EMANUEL JR.

Miami Palmetto softball semifinal (5-4 victory)

Joining you all once again from Plant City for the Class 6A state semifinal between Miami Palmetto and Jacksonville Mandarin. (Remember to hit F5 to refresh.)

Palmetto stranded leadoff hitter Courtney Ray, who reached on a single, in the top of the first. Pitcher Kelly Saco blasted a shot down the left field line, but the home plate umpire ruled it just foul. Saco wound up striking out.

Mandarin loaded the bases in the bottom of the first on a walk and two singles. Saco walked in a run when her pitch to the outside of the plate on a full count was ruled a ball. A passed ball scored another run. Mandarin up 2-0 through one.

Heading into the bottom of the third. Still 2-0 Mandarin.

Done through four, still the same score. Palmetto sends the bottom of the order (6-7-8) to the plate in the fifth.

Palmetto ties the score in the fifth.

Emily Stephens drew a walk and Claire Rocawich doubled. Jackie Houk singled to score courtesy runner Taylor Waddell. Courtney Ray reached on an infield single to load the bases. Cristina Pardinas followed with a single to center to drive in the tying run. Saco, who jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the count, struck out on three straight pitches, including her swing at a high pitch for strike three. Amanda Marquez flew out to center to end the inning.

So much for the tie. Mandarin's Michelle Moultrie just blasted a shot over the right field fence. Mandarin up 4-2, still in the bottom of the fifth.

Palmetto got runners on first and third with no outs in the seventh. Saco popped to shortstop. One out.

Holy improbable comebacks, Batman. Palmetto scores three in the top of the seventh. The first run scored on an error before Lauren Guzman doubled to right-center to drive in two runs.

Palmetto now up 5-4 heading into the bottom of the seventh.

Two outs, runner on first, and Moultrie (she of the two-run home run and a 3 for 3 day, is up. Wow. Intentional walk to put the tying run in scoring position. No matter. Saco just got opposing pitcher Riley Carter to ground out. Palmetto wins 5-4.

Win at all costs?

Two interesting conversations came about while writing stories about Nova baseball and Cooper City boys' volleyball -- both playing today with their seasons (possibly) on the line.

Sure, the teams led by Nova coach Pat McQuaid and Cooper City coach Warren Denise have plenty at stake (with both McQuaid's Titans and Denise's Cowboys fighting for a spot in their respective final fours) but during phone interviews this week, both coaches offered plenty of refreshing -- and pretty much unsolicited -- perspective on the importance of this weekend.

McQuaid (whose Titans won back-to-back state titles in 2004 and 2005):

"People don't realize how hard it is to get to this level, even the regional final game, because there's good baseball teams in South Florida ... and to get to the final four, that's phenomenal.

"You've got to be a little bit lucky, a little bit good, and things have to fall your way."

And Denise, whose team is at state for the first time in the sport's six-year FHSAA history:

"Only one of the eight teams is going to be the state champion. ... I think, in our culture today, that if, 'You didn't win it all, then you didn't do anything,' and, 'Second place is first loser' and all that stuff, I don't think that stuff is all positive.

"If it was only about winning a trophy or something, then none of it would be worth it. ... It's about teamwork and friendships and how you play the game. I know all that is cliche and sounds old, but there's a reason why it's a cliche: Because it's true."

--Patrick Dorsey (e-mail)

Girls and injuries; St. Thomas and The NYT

Interesting (if lengthy) story over at NYTimes.com (set to run in Sunday's Times Magazine) about the rise in injuries to female athletes, which coincides with the rise in sports participation among women.

So why is it significant here? Go no farther than the first sentence -- which features St. Thomas Aquinas soccer player Janelle Pierson, a former first-team All-Broward selection, who sustained torn anterior cruciate ligaments in both knees during her career.

Pierson is a window into a greater issue, one for which writer Michael Sokolove appears to reach a bit early on, seeming to state the obvious (more participation = more injuries), and "expose" a subject that has plagued sports for years (will today's games affect the athletes' futures?):

Janelle’s mother broached the subject with her of whether she should continue playing at all. “I’m afraid for her, and for all these girls,” Maria Pierson told me recently. “What’s it going to be like for them at 40 years old? They’re in so much pain now. Knees and backs and hips, and they just keep going. They’ve been going at this so hard for 10, 11, 12 years, and it’s taking a toll. Are they going to look back and regret it?”

But, after a while, a reason comes into focus -- the different makeups of boys vs. girls:

Girls and boys diverge in their physical abilities as they enter puberty and move through adolescence. Higher levels of testosterone allow boys to add muscle and, even without much effort on their part, get stronger. In turn, they become less flexible. Girls, as their estrogen levels increase, tend to add fat rather than muscle. They must train rigorously to get significantly stronger. The influence of estrogen makes girls’ ligaments lax, and they outperform boys in tests of overall body flexibility — a performance advantage in many sports, but also an injury risk when not accompanied by sufficient muscle to keep joints in stable, safe positions. Girls tend to run differently than boys — in a less-flexed, more-upright posture — which may put them at greater risk when changing directions and landing from jumps. Because of their wider hips, they are more likely to be knock-kneed — yet another suspected risk factor.

This divergence between the sexes occurs just at the moment when we increasingly ask more of young athletes, especially if they show talent: play longer, play harder, play faster, play for higher stakes. And we ask this of boys and girls equally — unmindful of physical differences. The pressure to concentrate on a “best” sport before even entering middle school — and to play it year-round — is bad for all kids. They wear down the same muscle groups day after day. They have no time to rejuvenate, let alone get stronger. By playing constantly, they multiply their risks and simply give themselves too many opportunities to get hurt.

And:

Studies of U.S. high-school athletics indicate that, when it comes to raw numbers, boys suffer more sports injuries. But the picture is complicated by football and the fact that boys still represent a greater percentage of high-school athletes.

Girls are more likely to suffer chronic knee pain as well as shinsplints and stress fractures. Some research indicates that they are more prone to ankle sprains, as well as hip and back pain. And for all the justifiable attention paid to concussions among football players, females appear to be more prone to them in sports that the sexes play in common. A study las