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Sacramento
Sports News is an online sports publication of SacNews.Net. If you
would
like to submit articles, photos or information to Sacramento Sports News via email,
send them
to:
sports@sacsports.net.
Editor/Publisher
Joe Blenkle
Photographers
Joe Blenkle
John Blenkle
sports fans have visited
Sacramento Sports News
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2009-10
KINGS
STATISTICAL
LEADERS
(Updated Mar. 6, 2010)
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PLAYER |
Points
Per
Game
20.3
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Tyreke
Evans |
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Jason
Thompson |
Rebounds
8.8 |
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Tyreke
Evans |
Assists
5.4 |
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Jason
Thompson |
Blocked
Shots
1.1
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Tyreke
Evens |
Steals
1.5
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Carl
Landry |
FG %
54.1%
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Francisco
Garcia |
FT%
88.9%
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News Headlines
Updated: Sunday, Mar. 7,
2010 - 7 p.m.
S.F. UFL FRANCHISE MOVING TO
SACRAMENTO
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Mar. 3, 2010) - The City of
Sacramento will become home to the United Football League and its
California franchise when the league’s second season kicks off in the fall
of 2010.
The team, which played two home games in San Francisco and one in San Jose
as the California Redwoods during the 2009 UFL Premiere season, will
relocate to Sacramento for all five 2010 UFL home games, giving local
football fans a team they can call their own.
Led by Head Coach and General Manager Dennis Green, the team
will play at Hornet Stadium at Sacramento State when the new season kicks
off in September.
The UFL is inviting football fans to suggest their favorite
name for the Sacramento team and announced a ‘Your Town, Your Team, Your
Name – You Make The Call’ promotion being run in association with Northern
California’s Sports Station KHTK 1140 AM. Fans can visit the official
league website www.UFL-Football.com to take part in the naming contest.
United Football League Commissioner Michael Huyghue, team
owner Paul Pelosi and Head Coach and General Manager Dennis Green were
formally welcomed to the California state capital by Sacramento Mayor
Kevin Johnson at a press conference at the Citizen Hotel in Sacramento on
Wednesday.
“Sacramento is a natural home for the UFL in that it is a
major market that we believe will support a professional football team and
we are excited to be here,” said UFL Commissioner Huyghue. “We are
bringing sports fans in the area an exciting and high-quality product on
the field at an affordable price and hope they will embrace the team who
will become a part of the local community.”
Team owner Paul Pelosi, said: “I was born and raised in
Northern California and for the last quarter century have built strong
personal and business relationships in Sacramento. I am excited for the
opportunity to bring professional football to Sacramento and we look
forward to being part of the community and appealing to sports fans in the
area.”
Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson added: “Welcoming a
professional sports team to the city also means welcoming a positive focus
for the local community. Whether it comes in the form of economic impact,
the creation of jobs or simply the buzz from your city’s team winning
football games, the opportunity to have a Sacramento franchise in the
United Football League is an exciting proposition. I personally look
forward to seeing the team in action at Hornet Stadium.”
As the California Redwoods, the relocated team posted a 2-4
record during the inaugural 2009 UFL season and running back Cory Ross led
the league in rushing with 462 yards.
“I am excited that the team will be able to call the city of
Sacramento home,” said Head Coach Dennis Green. “When I coached in
Northern California I won a Super Bowl ring during my time with the San
Francisco 49ers and I hope to bring championship success to the people of
Sacramento and the fans of the team.”
Sacramento State President Alex Gonzalez said: “We are pleased to welcome
the United Football League to our campus, and we are already seeing the
benefits of our partnership. Thanks to the UFL, we are installing a new
playing surface at Hornet Stadium without using state General Fund money.
The field will allow Sacramento State to use the stadium for additional
academic and student activities, as well as give us the opportunity to use
it for other regional sporting events.”
Football fans eager to learn about ticket information for UFL
games in Sacramento can call an information hotline: 916-233-4870.
Messages can also be left regarding partner and sponsorship opportunities,
player personnel, future staffing, media relations and general inquiries.
KINGS SIGN TEMPLE TO 10-DAY
CONTRACT
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Mar. 3, 2010) - The Sacramento
Kings today signed free-agent guard Garrett Temple to a 10-day contract,
according to Kings’ President of Basketball Operations Geoff Petrie.
The former Louisiana State product appeared in nine games for
the Houston Rockets this season and posted averages of 5.0 ppg (.448 FG%,
.667 FT%), 1.6 rpg, and 0.8 apg. Temple (6-6, 190 lbs.) is a former
GATORADE NBA D-League call-up, having averaged 14.9 ppg (.427 FG%, .372
3pt%, .804 FT%), 3.7 rpg and 3.4 apg in 30 games (started 30) with the
2009-10 Rio Grande Valley Vipers before joining the Rockets.
Temple will wear number 17 with the Kings. Sacramento's
roster now stands at 15.
AT&T GIANT RACE ANNOUNCED
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. (Feb. 25, 2010) - Giants
Enterprises is pleased to announce that the 2010 AT&T Giant Race will take
place on Saturday June 12, 2010. This new, San Francisco road race will
feature a half marathon and 5K with both courses starting at AT&T Park and
traveling along the Embarcadero waterfront. The half marathon will
continue through PIER 39, Fort Mason, and North Beach and both courses
will finish across home plate at AT&T Park. The AT&T Giants Race has
joined forces with two existing races, Project Open Hand’s Plate to Plate
5K Run/Walk and Mayor Newsom’s Stadium to Stadium Run.
Registration is now open for both distances at
www.thegiantrace.com and
www.sfgiants.com/giantrace
and, while supplies last, an entry in either distance includes a free
ticket to the June 11th A’s vs. Giants baseball game. The race website
also features detailed course maps, videos, photos from past races and
much more. The event is being co-produced by local sports management firm,
Evolve Sports.
JASON THOMPSON INJURY UPDATE
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Feb. 25, 2010) - Sacramento Kings’
forward Jason Thompson will miss up to two weeks of action with two
non-displaced transverse processes fractures in his lower back, which were
confirmed by X-Rays taken today.
Thompson, currently in his second NBA season, is averaging
12.7 points (.458 FGs, .717 FTs), 8.8 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.05
blocks per game through 55 outings of which he has started in 50.
KINGS WAIVE HUGHES
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Feb. 23, 2010) - The Sacramento
Kings today waived guard Larry Hughes. Hughes was acquired from the New
York Knicks as part of a three-team trade on February 18, 2010, and did
not appear in any contests with Sacramento.
The Kings roster now stands at 14.
ROWBOTHAM PURCHASES STOCKTON
THUNDER
STOCKTON, Calif. (Feb. 22, 2010) - SC Hockey Franchise
Corporation, led by Brad Rowbotham, signed an asset purchase agreement of
the ECHL's Stockton Thunder on Monday morning and was introduced at a
Monday press conference at Stockton Arena.
The purchase agreement, from Stockton Hockey Franchise Group, Inc., led by
Michael Reinsdorf, is subject to final approval by the ECHL Board of
Governors and the City of Stockton.
"First and foremost, I want to thank Michael for providing
the opportunity to take the lead of one of the model franchises in
professional hockey - a dream come true for passionate hockey people in
myself and family," said Rowbotham. "Making it clear, we're taking
advantage of a long-term plan and build on a wildly successful five years
in Stockton by making it even better by taking it to the next level."
Rowbotham continued, "When I first set foot in Stockton, I
instantly grew a passion for this city, the fans and the hockey team. The
aura and atmosphere that Thunder fans create each and every game is
strikingly similar to our NHL affiliate in the Edmonton Oilers. What makes
sense is that we take our business model and make no sweeping changes. I
am committing a plan to our fanbase and community that continues the
success we have here and gives it even more stability in this city for
decades to come."
Rowbotham, a native of Red Deer, Alberta, currently has
shareholding interest and is general manager of Roll'n Oilfield
Industries, Ltd, a corporation founded by his father 33 years ago that
spans operations globally in the United States, Canada and in the past,
Russia, Africa and South America.
In the last decade, Roll'n Oilfield has been named recipient
of the Canadian Association of Oil Well Drilling Contractors (CAODC)
"Safest Service Rig Company" Award four times and was named "Business of
the Year" by the Red Deer Chamber of Commerce in 2005.
Brad and his wife, Dawn, currently reside in Red Deer and
have four children (Kelsey, Cole, Ben and Austin). A noted hockey
enthusiast with his family, his sons Cole and Austin has been involved in
youth hockey for eight years.
Reinsdorf who is the principal owner of Minor League
Baseball's Harrisburg Senators, a class-AA affiliate of the Washington
Nationals, continues to serve the NBA's Chicago Bulls as Alternate
Governor and is with the Children's Memorial Hospital Foundation, serving
on the Board of Directors.
He headed the Stockton Hockey Franchise Group, Inc. purchase
in January, 2005 of the Atlantic City Boardwalk Bullies from Atlantic City
Hockey, LLC, has enjoyed numerous highlights during his tenure as Thunder
owner/governor.
"I have nothing but a great feeling at how beneficial Brad's
leadership and vision will be for the Stockton Thunder for years to come,"
said Reinsdorf. "It's a deal that makes the most sense and will be great
for the city, fans and hockey club. I've thoroughly enjoyed the five years
with the Thunder, and I'm confident that it's being left in great hands to
build on the success in this budding hockey community. That was our goal
through this whole process.
Under Reinsdorf's guidance and naming of Dan Chapman as
Thunder president/alternate governor, the Thunder has been twice named
recipient of the ECHL's "Award of Excellence" (2006-07 and 2008-09), has
led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons since beginning
play in the league in 2005-06, has drawn 13 sellouts to the 9,737-seat
Stockton Arena and has advanced to the Kelly Cup Playoffs in the last
three straight seasons.
In 2007-08, the Thunder hosted the 2008 ECHL All-Star Game,
where a crowd of 7,455 marked the fifth-highest attended contest in ECHL
All-Star Game history with NHL Network television coverage and NHL Radio
coverage provided spotlight to the game during the league's 20th
Anniversary season.
During the 2006-07 campaign, the Thunder drew record crowds
with a total attendance figure of 244,085 (ECHL's highest since 2001-02 -
Florida) over 36 home games, an average of 6,780 fans per contest,
including three capacity crowds.
BROCKMAN INJURY UPDATE
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Feb. 20, 2010) - Sacramento Kings’
forward Jon Brockman will miss two to four weeks of action with a sprained
medial collateral ligament in his right knee, which was confirmed by an
MRI taken yesterday.
Brockman, currently in his rookie season, is averaging 3.0
points (.511 FGs, .600 FTs) and 4.6 rebounds per game through 44 outings
of which he has started in four.
PORTS SEARCH FOR ON-FIELD MC
STOCKTON, Calif. (Feb. 18, 2010) -
The Stockton Ports, 11-time
champions of the California League, want to know if you can be the next
Director of Fun and Games.
If you think you have what it takes to lead a crowd in cheering, direct
and explain on-field games and entertainment, and serve as the field
marshal of fun at Banner Island Ballpark, then come audition for the Ports
at Banner Island Ballpark on Tuesday, March 9 at 5 p.m.
The Ports are looking for someone to fill the position of
On-Field Emcee for the 2010 season. Fan favorite Zack Attack, who served
as the Ports Director of Fun and Games for two seasons, has moved back to
his native Everett, Washington. The Ports are looking for an enthusiastic,
energetic individual to fill his shoes and lead the fandemonium at Banner
Island Ballpark this season.
The position is part-time, and the on-field emcee will
perform at all 70 home games this season. The game day job includes an
opening monologue welcoming fans to the ballpark and game, play-by-play
announcing of all on-field games, promotions and entertainment held
between innings. A quick wit, positive attitude and high level of energy
are required.
The Ports will also be holding auditions for the Ports Promo
Team on March 9 as well. Promo team members help execute in-game
entertainment by securing volunteers for games like Bungee Battle or
Musical Chairs, by passing out giveaway items, and by leading the crowd in
cheers. Promo Team members are also part-time employees.
If you want to help keep Banner Island Ballpark rockin’ on
game days and show fans that the Fun Docks Here at the stadium this
season, be sure to audition on Tuesday, March 9.
For more information about these positions, please contact
Ports Marketing Director Justin Gray at (209) 644-1900.
KINGS GET PLAYERS IN MULTI-TEAM
DEAL
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Feb. 18, 2010) - The Sacramento
Kings today acquired Carl Landry, Joey Dorsey, Larry Hughes and cash
considerations in a three-way trade with the Houston Rockets and New York
Knicks in exchange for Kevin Martin, Hilton Armstrong and Sergio
Rodriguez, it was announced by Kings’ President of Basketball Operations
Geoff Petrie.
“We’re really excited about the trade today and the acquisition of Carl
Landry, Joey Dorsey and Larry Hughes,” said Petrie. “We particularly feel
that we’ve augmented our frontcourt with Landry’s ability to score the
ball inside and out and Dorsey as an interior rebounder and shot-blocker.
They’ll bring an additional level of toughness and productivity that will
help us going forward. I want to personally thank Kevin Martin for the
tremendous years of service that he gave to the Kings. I wish him the
greatest success along with Hilton and Sergio.”
Landry, a 6-9, 248-pound forward, who is currently in his
third NBA season (all with Houston), is averaging 16.1 points (.547 FGs,
.839 FTs) and 5.5 rebounds per game this year in 52 contests with the
Rockets. He has totaled career NBA averages of 11.2 points (.569 FGs, .250
3FGs, .797 FTs) and 5.1 rebounds per game through 163 outings. Landry has
appeared in 19 career playoff games, averaging 6.9 points and 4.2 rebounds
per game. He was selected by the Seattle Sonics in the second round (31st
overall) of the 2007 NBA Draft out of Purdue (Seattle traded his draft
rights to Houston).
At 6-8 and 268 pounds, Dorsey, a forward-center, is currently
in his second NBA season (all with Houston). He is averaging 1.6 points
(.455 FGs, .500 FTs) and 3.6 rebounds per game through seven contests with
Houston. Dorsey, who enjoyed a four-year collegiate career at Memphis, was
selected by the Portland Trail Blazers in the second round (33rd overall)
of the 2008 NBA Draft (draft rights were traded to Houston in a three-team
deal).
Hughes, a 6-5, 185-pound guard, is currently in his 12th NBA
season. He has amassed career averages of 14.4 points (.408 FGs, .308
3FGs, .756 FTs), 4.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.5 steals per game over
704 outings with Philadelphia (twice, 1998-99 and 1999-00), Golden State
(2000-02), Washington (2002-05), Cleveland (2005-07), New York (twice,
2008-09 and 2009-10) and Chicago (2008-09). Hughes’ best season,
statistically, occurred during the 2004-05 campaign when he averaged 22.0
points, 6.3 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 2.9 steals per game through 61
contests for the Wizards. He has appeared in 45 career playoff games,
averaging 13.2 points, 4.6 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game. Hughes was
selected by Philadelphia in the first round (eighth overall) of the 1998
NBA Draft after his freshman season at St. Louis.
Martin, currently in his sixth NBA season (all with
Sacramento), is averaging 19.8 points (.398 FGs, .355 3FGs, .819 FTs), 4.3
rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.0 steals per game through 22 outings. He has
recorded career averages of 17.1 points (.449 FGs, .386 3FGs, .850 FTs),
3.7 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.0 steals per game over 331 contests.
Martin has six career playoff appearances (2005-06), averaging 13.2 points
and 5.0 rebounds. His best statistical season occurred in 2008-09 when he
averaged 24.6 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.2 steals per game
through 51 outings. He scored a career-high 50 points at Golden State on
April 1, 2009. Martin enjoyed a three-year career at Western Carolina and
was selected by the Kings in the first round (26th overall) of the 2004
NBA Draft after his junior year.
Rodriguez, who is currently in his fourth NBA season, is
averaging 6.0 points (.463 FGs, .357 3FGs, .694 FTs), 3.1 assists and 1.3
rebounds per game in 39 contests with the Kings. He has totaled career
averages of 3.9 points (.406 FGs, .311 3FGs, .739 FTs), 2.9 assists and
1.3 rebounds per game over 258 outings with Portland (2006-09) and
Sacramento (2009-10). Rodriguez has playoff career averages of 0.8 points
per game in five contests with Portland. He was selected by Phoenix in the
first round (27th overall) of 2006 NBA Draft (draft rights were traded to
Portland) after playing two years in Spain (2004-06).
Armstrong is currently in his fourth NBA season. He is
averaging 2.5 points (.371 FGs, .500 FTs) and 3.1 rebounds per game in 24
outings with New Orleans (18 games) and Sacramento (six games). He has
recorded career averages of 3.5 points (.509 FGs) and 2.7 rebounds per
game in 215 contests with New Orleans (2006-10) and Sacramento (2009-10).
Armstrong was selected by the New Orleans/Oklahoma City in the first round
(12th overall) of the 2006 NBA Draft following a four-year collegiate
career at Connecticut.
In a separate trade, the Kings acquired Dominic McGuire and
cash considerations from the Washington Wizards in exchange for a
protected 2010 second round draft pick. Additionally, Sacramento waived
Kenny Thomas.
McGuire, a 6-9, 220-pound forward, is currently in his third
NBA season (all with Washington). He is averaging 0.7 points and 1.5
rebounds per game through 41 contests. McGuire has posted career averages
of 2.5 points (.415 FGs, .300 3FGs, .633 FTs), 3.3 rebounds and 1.3
assists per game over 190 outings. He was selected by the Washington
Wizards in the second round (47th overall) of the 2007 NBA Draft after his
junior season at Fresno State. McGuire spent his freshman and sophomore
campaigns at California.
Thomas is currently in his 11th NBA season. He is averaging
1.6 points (.486 FGs, .583 FGs) and 3.3 rebounds per game through 26
contests, of which he started in two for the Kings this year. Thomas has
amassed career averages of 9.3 points (.465 FGs, .244 3FGs, .699 FTs), 6.9
rebounds and 1.5 assists per game over 632 outings with Houston (1999-03),
Philadelphia (2003-05) and Sacramento (2005-10). He has averaged 9.7
points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game in 23 career playoff
contests with Philadelphia (11 games) and Sacramento (12 games). Thomas
was selected by Houston in the first round (22nd overall) of the 1999 NBA
Draft following a solid four-year career at New Mexico.
SHAKERS DEBUT IN 2010
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Feb. 17, 2010) - The San Jose
Earthquakes announced today the addition of a new promotional team called
the Shakers Squad. The first annual tryout for the Shakers Squad will be
held on Saturday, March 6 at the 24 Hour Fitness San Jose SuperSport at
1610 Crane Court in San Jose. Check-in time will begin promptly at 1:45
p.m. PT and tryouts begin at approximately 2:00 p.m.
The Shakers Squad will run promotions at games and nighttime events and
make public appearances on behalf of the team. They will interact with
fans at promotional events and at home games at Buck Shaw Stadium.
Applicants should be outgoing, friendly, mature, photogenic, enthusiastic,
reliable, strong communication skills and be a team player. The
Earthquakes are looking for women with experience in promotional modeling,
cheer, dance, or other performance experience.
Women interested in interviewing for a roster spot on March 6
with the Shakers Squad must:
Be at least 18 years of age by March 1, 2010
· Wear athletic clothing, preferably dance shorts/yoga pants and a tank
top
· Bring a head shot or a personal photo (non-returnable)
· Commit to one full season (March-November 2010)
· Complete the general application
· Have reliable transportation
Those interviewing for the Shakers Squad should come dressed
and ready to meet the staff. There will be no facilities available to
prepare for the tryout. Final selection will be listed on
www.sjearthquakes.com on Wednesday, March 10, 2010.
Women attending the tryouts should enter the 24 Hour Fitness
San Jose SuperSport and check in at the front desk. The tryout will take
place in the Group X room.
The application and additional information can be found on
www.sjearthquakes.com. For more
information about the Shakers Squad or the tryout process, contact Krissy
Kaiser at
kkaiser@sjearthquakes.com.
A'S OUTRIGHT PETIT TO SACRAMENTO
OAKLAND, Calif. (Feb. 11, 2010) -
The Oakland A’s
have outrighted infielder Gregorio Petit to
Triple-A Sacramento and invited him to Spring Training as a non-roster
invitee, the club announced today. He was designated for assignment
Monday, February 1 when the A’s claimed Steve Tolleson off waivers from
Minnesota. Petit spent most of the 2009 season at Sacramento where he
batted .244 with five home runs and 32 RBI in 98 games. He also had two
stints with Oakland and went 7 for 31 (.226) with a double and a RBI in 11
games.
EARTHQUAKES SIGN BRAZILIAN FORWARD
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Feb. 10, 2010) - The San Jose
Earthquakes announced today that they have signed Brazilian forward
Eduardo. Per league and team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Eduardo will be placed on the Quakes roster pending the receipt of his
ITC.
“Eduardo will bring a lot to our club,” said General Manager John Doyle.
"He is a physical presence up top with the ability to hold the ball, and
he also has great feet. He has proven that he can score goals in quality
leagues around the world and we think that he will have success in MLS
also.”
Eduardo most recently played for FC Basel in the Swiss Super
League. He registered 17 goals in his 96 appearances for Basel since
joining the team on loan in 2005. He helped lead Basel to two Swiss League
titles (in 2005 and 2008) and a pair of Swiss Cup championships (in 2007
and 2008).
The 29-year-old forward has played for successful clubs
around the world such as FC Toulouse (French Ligue 1), R. Charleroi S.C.
(Belgian Jupiler) and with his hometown club, Vasco de Gama in Brazil.
He burst onto the scene with Charleroi in the Belgian league
and scored 24 goals in 84 appearances, which helped earn a big contract
with French club Toulousse. While there, Eduardo helped the team win the
French Ligue 2 and earn promotion to the top flight. He scored eight times
in 57 appearances with the club, where he played primarily as a left
winger. The Rio de Janeiro native was part of the Vasco de Gama side that
won the Taca Rio, an annual tournament in the nation’s capital in 1999,
the Torneio Rio-Sao Paulo in 1999, the Taca Guanabara and Copa Mercosur in
2000 and the Campeonato Brasileiro Seria A title in the same year.
RIVER CATS AND KSTE REUNITE IN 2010
WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Feb. 9, 2010) - The Sacramento
River Cats and Clear Channel Radio-Sacramento have announced a new,
two-year broadcast agreement to make Talk 650 KSTE the exclusive broadcast
home of all Sacramento River Cats games. The agreement, which includes the
airing of all
144
River Cats’ regular season games and all Cats’ post-season action, was
announced this morning on KSTE’s Armstrong and Getty Show. The “Voice of
the River Cats,” Johnny Doskow, will return to the booth for his 10th
season with the team.
“We are thrilled to once again partner with KSTE and the
entire Clear Channel family of stations,” said Alan Ledford, River Cats
President, General Manager and COO. “Clear Channel Radio has a tremendous
presence in this community and brings to the table a wealth of knowledge
and enthusiasm as it relates to both of our respective businesses.”
"I am absolutely thrilled to be able to welcome the River
Cats back to KSTE," said Clear Channel Sacramento Market Manager Jeff
Holden. "The community interests of two great teams, the Clear Channel
Radio stations and The Sacramento River Cats make this a perfect
re-union."
The first River Cats broadcast of the 2010 season on KSTE
will be on Thursday, April 8th when the Cats visit the Portland Beavers
(Triple-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres) at 7:05 p.m. The River Cats
begin their 2010 home schedule on Friday, April 16th when they host the
Reno Aces (Triple-A affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks) at Raley Field
at 7:05 p.m.
A'S RELEASE OUTFIELDER WILLY
TAVERAS
OAKLAND, Calif. (Feb. 9, 2010) - The Oakland A’s have
released outfielder Willy Taveras, the club announced today. Taveras was
acquired from the Cincinnati Reds along with infielder Adam Rosales for
infielder Aaron Miles and a player to be named later on February 1 but was
immediately designated for assignment. He batted .240 with a home run and
15 RBI in 102 games with Cincinnati last year. The 28-year old
right-handed hitter has a .276 career average in 643 games with Houston
(2004-06), Colorado (2007-08) and Cincinnati (2009).
QUAKES HOST PORTLAND AT BUCK SHAW
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Feb. 8, 2010) - The San Jose
Earthquakes announced today that the team will play the US Soccer
Federation Second Division Portland Timbers at Buck Shaw Stadium in Santa
Clara on Saturday, March 20 at 7:00 p.m. PT.
Season ticket holders can attend these matches free of charge; Tickets go
on sale on Monday, Feb. 15 at 10:00 a.m. PT and can be purchased by
calling 408-556-7700 or online at
www.sjearthquakes.com. All tickets are general admission and the
ticket price for non-season ticket holders is $10.
The Earthquakes have faced the Timbers five times in
franchise history and lead the overall series 4-1. In their last meeting
on March 14, 2009 the Earthquakes came away with a 1-0 victory. Quincy
Amarikwa scored the game’s lone goal to give the Quakes the win. Amarikwa
headed a rebound off of a deflected shot just across the line for the only
goal of the night and the Quakes held on for the 1-0 win, as Joe Cannon
and the defense preserved the shutout. On March 28, 2008, the Quakes
posted a 2-1 victory. Kei Kamara scored an early goal for the Quakes and
they held on for the win as Shea Salinas added the second goal for the
Quakes. On August 3, 2005, in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Round of 16,
San Jose shut out Portland 2-0 with goals scored by Wade Barrett and Brian
Mullan. The previous year, on July 14, the Earthquakes defeated the
Timbers 3-0 in the Open Cup with goals scored by Ramiro Corrales, Ronnie
Ekelund and Dwayne De Rosario. Their first meeting was on June 4, 2001, in
an exhibition match where Portland snuck by San Jose for a 2-1 win.
The San Jose Earthquakes have significantly reduced season
ticket prices for the 2010 Major League Soccer season. Season tickets
start as low as $204. Season ticket prices have been reduced in all
sections; Premier Midfield will now be $40 per game ($50 in 2009), Center
Circle $30 per game ($35 in 2009), Sideline $20 per game ($30 in 2009),
Goal View $15 per game ($20 in 2009) and Supporters Section $12 per game
($18 in 2009). For more information on season tickets, to renew season
tickets or to place a deposit, call the Earthquakes Front Office at
408-556-7700.
EARTHQUAKES ANNOUNCE PRE-SEASON
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Feb. 7, 2010) - The San Jose
Earthquakes announced the remainder of their preseason schedule today. The
team travels to Phoenix for one week, from Sunday, Feb. 7 continuing on
through Saturday, Feb. 13. The Quakes then return home until they travel
across the pond to London from Thursday March 4 until Sunday, March 14.
While in the Phoenix area, San Jose will train every day at the Arizona
State University Soccer Complex and play two exhibition games. Both
matches will be against the Kansas City Wizards with the first taking
place on Wednesday, Feb. 10 at 10:00 a.m. PT and the second on Saturday,
Feb. 13 also at 10:00 a.m. PT.
The Earthquakes will then return home to continue their
preseason training from Monday, Feb. 15 through Wednesday, March 3. During
that stretch, they will train and play some exhibition matches in the
area.
From Thursday, March 4 until Sunday, March 14 the Quakes will
be in London, where they will train at club partner Tottenham Hotspur FC’s
training ground. The team will play a number of matches during that time
period. The full schedule of games in London will be announced in the near
future.
Other preseason exhibition matches will also be announced in
the near future. San Jose opens the 2010 regular season on Saturday, March
27 against defending MLS Cup Champion Real Salt Lake at Buck Shaw Stadium.
The match kicks off at 6 p.m. PT and will air live on Fox Soccer Channel.
JERRY RICE NAMED TO HALL OF FAME
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (Feb. 6, 2010) - The National
Football League announced today that WR Jerry Rice has been named to the
Pro Football Hall of Fame. He becomes the 14th San Francisco 49ers alum to
be selected. In
addition,
DE/LB Rickey Jackson, who played for the 49ers from 1994-95, was also
named a Hall of Famer.
A 20-year veteran, Rice holds several NFL records, including
career receptions (1,549), receiving yards (22,895) and touchdown
receptions (197). Rice, a 10-time All-Pro who was selected to 13 Pro
Bowls, won three Super Bowl championships with the 49ers (1988, ‘89, ‘94).
The Crawford, MS, native, played his first 16 seasons in San Francisco,
where he holds nearly every 49ers receiving record. Rice then played for
the Oakland Raiders (2001-04), before finishing his career with the
Seattle Seahawks (2004).
A'S TRADE EVELAND TO TORONTO
OAKLAND, Calif. (Feb. 6, 2010) - The Oakland A’s have
traded left-handed pitcher Dana Eveland to the Toronto Blue Jays for a
player to be named later or cash considerations, the club announced today.
Eveland began and finished the 2009 season in the A’s starting rotation,
but spent most of the year at Triple-A Sacramento. He was 2-4 with a 7.16
ERA in 13 games, nine starts, over three stints with Oakland and 8-6 with
a 4.94 ERA in 21 starts with the River Cats. The 26-year old left-hander
was originally acquired by the A’s from Arizona in the Dan Haren trade
following the 2007 season and went 11-13 with a 4.92 ERA in 42 games, 38
starts, in two seasons with Oakland. Eveland was designated for assignment
on Monday.
EVANS JOINS FORMER PLAYERS IN
COMPETITION
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Feb. 4, 2010) - Tyreke Evans will
join forces with former Sacramento Kings and Monarchs greats Chris Webber
and Nicole Powell (currently a forward for the New York Liberty) for the
2010 Haier Shooting Stars competition on Saturday, February 13 in
conjunction with NBA All-Star Saturday Night at American Airlines Center
in Dallas.
The competition will showcase four teams consisting of three players each,
featuring one current NBA player, one current WNBA player, and one on-air
television analyst and legend. Teams will be challenged by six numbered
shooting locations of increasing difficulty, with each team attempting to
make all required shots in numeric order in the fastest time.
The field includes Team L.A., consisting of three-time NBA
All-Star Pau Gasol, three-time WNBA All-Star Marie Ferdinand-Harris of the
Los Angeles Sparks, and NBA TV analyst Brent Barry, winner of the 1996 NBA
Sprite Slam Dunk Contest. Team Dallas features nine-time NBA All-Star Dirk
Nowitzki, WNBA All-Star Becky Hammon of the San Antonio Silver Stars, and
TNT analyst and former NBA champion Kenny Smith. Team Atlanta rounds out
the squads, featuring four-time NBA All-Star Joe Johnson, 2009 WNBA Rookie
of the Year Angel McCougherty of the Atlanta Dream, and NBA TV analyst and
former Atlanta Hawks NBA All-Star Steve Smith.
Evans currently leads all rookies in scoring and ranks in the
top-10 in most statistical categories among rookies, averaging 20.7 ppg
(.461 FGs, .270 3pt, .795 FTs), 4.7 rpg, 5.0 apg, 1.54 spg, and 36.9 mpg
in 43 games. He was named NBA T-Mobile Western Conference Rookie of the
Month for November and December.
Webber finished his seven-season tenure with Sacramento as
one the team’s all-time greats, ranking first in Sacramento-era history in
rebounds, third in scoring, and second in field goals made. His No. 4
jersey was retired by the organization during a halftime ceremony vs. Utah
on February 6, 2009.
Powell played five seasons for the Sacramento Monarchs
(2005-2009), highlighted by a 2005 WNBA Championship and selection to the
2009 WNBA All-Star team.
S.F. SIGNS CURTIS AND SMITH
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (Feb. 4, 2010) - The San Francisco
49ers today announced that they have signed TE Tony Curtis and CB Keith
Smith to future contracts.
Curtis (6-5, 251) was originally signed as a rookie free agent by the
Dallas Cowboys out of Portland State in 2005. He went on to play in 36
games (six starts) in three seasons with Dallas, recording 11 catches for
50 yards and three touchdowns. Curtis also gained playing experience
overseas, seeing action in nine games (four starts) as a member of the
Cologne Centurions in 2007. In 2009, he spent three games (Weeks 3-5) on
the Baltimore Ravens active roster, but was inactive for each contest.
Curtis, a 26-year old native of Seaside, CA, played in 22
games in two seasons at Portland State after transferring from Fresno (CA)
Community College.
Smith (5-11, 191) rejoins the 49ers after spending eight
weeks on San Francisco’s active roster in 2009. He saw action in three
games for San Francisco, recording two tackles and five special teams
stops.
Smith was originally selected in the third round (73rd
overall) of the 2004 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions. After spending five
seasons with Detroit, he was released prior to the start of the 2009
season. He has played in 71 career games (5 starts), registering 118
tackles, four interceptions, 14 passes defensed, one sack, one forced
fumble and one touchdown.
A 29-year-old, native of Leesville, LA, Smith played
collegiately at McNeese State.
49ERS NAME ASSISTANT O-LINE COACH
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (Feb. 4, 2010) - The San Francisco
49ers today announced that they have named Ray Brown assistant offensive
line coach.
"Ray is a great addition to our team, particularly for our
young guys," said head coach Mike Singletary. "He exemplifies what it
means to be an O-lineman. He has a tremendous work ethic and is an
outstanding communicator. He'll do a great job assisting Mike Solari in
helping our offensive line become a dominant unit."
Brown, 47 joins San Francisco’s coaching staff after serving as the
assistant offensive line coach for the Buffalo Bills the past two seasons.
Prior to coaching in Buffalo, he spent the second half of the 2006 season
as a special assistant on the Washington Redskins coaching staff, working
with the offensive linemen.
Originally an eighth round selection (201st overall) by the
St. Louis Cardinals in the 1986 NFL Draft, Brown went on to play 20
seasons in the NFL with four different franchises – Cardinals (1986-88),
Redskins (1989-95, 2004-05), 49ers (1996-2001) and Lions (2002-03). He
played in a total of 265 games with 202 starts, lining up at both guard
and tackle throughout his career. Brown was a member of the Washington
Redskins 1991 Super Bowl (XXVI) Championship team, and later earned Pro
Bowl and first-team All-Pro honors while playing right guard for the
49ers, in 2001.
Brown was born in Marion, AK, and went on to become an
All-Southland Conference selection at Arkansas State.
KINGS' JASON THOMPSON TO MISS TWO
GAMES
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Feb. 3, 2010) - Sacramento
Kings’ forward Jason Thompson will miss tonight’s game versus the San
Antonio Spurs and Friday night’s contest versus the Phoenix Suns to attend
a family funeral on the East Coast.
EARTHQUAKES ANNOUNCE SCHEDULE
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Feb. 3, 2010) - The San Jose
Earthquakes announced their 2010 Major League Soccer schedule today. The
Quakes open the season at home on March 27 against the defending MLS Cup
Champions, Real Salt Lake at Buck Shaw Stadium at 6 p.m. on Fox Soccer
Channel.
The Quakes play four of their first six matches at home to start the
season. The Earthquakes enjoy a balanced schedule with no road trips or
homestands longer than two games at a time. San Jose has many marquee home
matchups on their schedule, including a visit from Seattle Sounders FC on
Saturday, July 31 and match-ups with their two biggest rivals, the Los
Angeles Galaxy on Saturday, Aug. 21 and the Houston Dynamo on Saturday,
Oct. 16. San Jose will also be visiting the new Red Bull Arena on
Saturday, Aug. 28.
The Earthquakes will appear on national television six times
in 2010 with two matches on ESPN2/ESPN Deportes, three matches on Fox
Soccer Channel and one match in Spanish on Telefutura. The Quakes first
appear on national television on Fox Soccer Channel on March 27 against
Real Salt Lake in their home opener. Other highlights of the national
television schedule include Fox Soccer Channel’s broadcast of San Jose’s
first ever match with the Philadelphia Union on July 10 at 2:30 p.m. and
the Quakes’ Aug. 21 home match against the Galaxy at 1 p.m. at Buck Shaw
Stadium.
All MLS teams are on a break during the group stages of the
World Cup, and San Jose is off between their games on June 5 at FC Dallas
and their game on Friday, June 25 at Real Salt Lake. The Quakes conclude
their 2010 campaign with three of their last five games on the road,
traveling to Columbus and D.C. United in successive weeks, then returning
home for the Houston game on Oct. 16, and Chivas USA on Wednesday, Oct.
20. San Jose closes its season on the road in Kansas City with the Wizards
on Saturday, Oct. 23.
The San Jose Earthquakes have significantly reduced season
ticket prices for the 2010 Major League Soccer season. Season tickets
start as low as $204. Season ticket prices have been reduced in all
sections; Premier Midfield will now be $40 per game ($50 in 2009), Center
Circle $30 per game ($35 in 2009), Sideline $20 per game ($30 in 2009),
Goal View $15 per game ($20 in 2009) and Supporters Section $12 per game
($18 in 2009). For more information on season tickets, to renew season
tickets or to place a deposit, call the Earthquakes Front Office at
408-556-7700.
A'S DESIGNATE PETIT FOR ASSIGNMENT
OAKLAND, Calif. (Feb. 1, 2010) - The Oakland A’s
have designated infielder Gregorio Petit for assignment, the club
announced today. The move was necessary after claiming infielder Steve
Tolleson off waivers from Minnesota earlier today. Petit spent most of the
2009 season at Triple-A Sacramento where he batted .244 with five home
runs and 32 RBI in 98 games. He also had two stints with the A’s and went
7 for 31 (.226) with a double and a RBI in 11 games.
OAKLAND ANNOUNCES TRADE & SIGNINGS
OAKLAND, Calif. (Feb. 1, 2010) - The Oakland A’s
have acquired infielder Adam Rosales and outfielder Willy Taveras from the
Cincinnati Reds for infielder Aaron Miles and a player to be named later,
the club announced today. The A’s also agreed to terms with free agent
outfielder Gabe Gross on a one-year
contract
and claimed infielder Steve Tolleson off waivers from the Minnesota Twins.
To clear space on the 40-man roster, the A’s designated Taveras and
left-handed pitcher Dana Eveland for assignment. An additional roster move
to get Tolleson on the 40-man roster will be announced later.
Rosales spent most of the season with Cincinnati, where he
batted .213 with four home runs and 19 RBI in 87 games. He appeared in 57
games at third base, 11 at first base, six at shortstop and four at second
base. The 26-year old right-handed hitter also hit .349 in 30 games for
Triple-A Louisville. Rosales was originally a 12th round draft pick of the
Reds in 2005 and made his Major League debut in 2008, hitting .207 in 18
games. He was Cincinnati’s Minor League Hitter of the year in 2007 after
combining to hit .286 with 41 doubles, 11 triples, 18 home runs and 79 RBI
in 136 games with Single-A Sarasota and Double-A Chattanooga
Gross hit .227 with six home runs and 36 RBI in 115 games
with Tampa Bay last year. He started 71 games in right field and four at
designated hitter and made just three starts against left-handed pitching.
Gross made his Major League debut with Toronto in 2004 and is a .239
career hitter with 39 home runs and 161 RBI in 552 games over six seasons.
After spending two years with Toronto (2004-05), the 30-year old
left-handed hitter also played for Milwaukee (2006-08) and Tampa Bay
(2008-09).
Tolleson combined for a .266 batting average, 27 doubles,
eight home runs, 40 RBI and 13 stolen bases in 130 games for Double-A New
Britain and Triple-A Rochester in the Twins farm system last year. He was
originally drafted by Minnesota in the fifth round of the 2005 draft and
is a .276 career hitter with 33 home runs, 183 RBI and 67 stolen bases in
500 minor league games over five professional seasons. The 26-year old
right-handed hitter has played primarily second base and shortstop in his
career, but has also appeared in games at all three outfield positions and
third base.
Eveland began and finished the 2009 season in the A’s
starting rotation, but spent most of the year at Triple-A Sacramento. He
was 2-4 with a 7.16 ERA in 13 games, nine starts, over three stints with
Oakland and 8-6 with a 4.94 ERA in 21 starts with the River Cats. Taveras
batted .240 with a home run and 15 RBI in 102 games with Cincinnati. He is
a .276 career hitter in 643 games with Houston (2004-06), Colorado
(2007-08) and Cincinnati (2009).
A'S AGREE TO TERMS WITH WUERTZ
OAKLAND, Calif. (Jan. 29, 2010) - The Oakland A’s
have agreed to terms with right-handed pitcher Michael Wuertz on a
two-year contract through the 2011 season with a club option for 2012, the
club announced today. Wuertz was the only arbitration eligible player
remaining on the A’s roster.
Wuertz was one of the top set-up men in the American League in 2009 as he
went 6-1 with four saves and a 2.63 ERA in a team-leading 74 appearances
for the A’s. He led American League relievers and tied for second in the
majors with a career-high 102 strikeouts, which was the sixth-highest
strikeout total by a reliever in Oakland history. In addition to
strikeouts, Wuertz also had career-highs in saves and innings pitched
(78.2), and matched his best in wins.
Wuertz spent the first 11 seasons of his professional career
with the Chicago Cubs organization before he was dealt to Oakland prior to
the start of Spring Training in 2009. He has 372 career strikeouts in
341.0 innings, an average of 9.82 per nine innings. The 31-year old
right-hander spent four seasons with the Cubs from 2004 to 2008 and was
13-7 with a 3.57 ERA in 265 appearances.
EARTHQUAKES TO CONSTRUCT TRAINING
FACILITY
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Jan. 28, 2010) - The San Jose
Earthquakes announced today that the club will construct a dedicated
training facility at the site of the potential new stadium. Construction
on the Amway Global Training Facility will begin Thursday, Jan. 28 and
will open this spring.
“For the first time in club history, the team will have a dedicated
training facility,” said general manager of soccer operations John Doyle.
“This facility will be a major boost for our coaches and players in their
daily preparation. Along with the addition of staff and resources, we are
continuing to build the soccer side of this organization.”
The project, which will cost over $1 million, will be
available not only for the first team but also for future Earthquakes
youth academy squads. The location of this facility is adjacent to the
proposed site for the new Earthquakes stadium on Coleman Ave in San Jose.
“The construction of our practice field is another of example
of our ownership’s commitment to this team,” said executive vice president
David Alioto. “Our ownership group is focused on winning and this
facility, along with the additional investments in team staff and
infrastructure, reinforces that goal. We have a very strong relationship
with Santa Clara University and we believe this new facility allows all
parties to have the flexibility they deserve with their training and
events. The addition of an Earthquakes-specific training field will
provide our technical staff a valuable resource as they continue to build
this team.”
The Amway Global Training Facility will feature one natural
grass field with room for additional fields. The team currently trains at
West Valley College and Santa Clara University.
SMITH REPRESENTS 49ERS IN LONDON
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. (Jan. 28, 2010) - In
anticipation of the 49ers upcoming game in London against the Denver
Broncos on October 31, 2010, quarterback Alex Smith has been invited to
serve as a studio guest analyst for
BBC
(British Broadcasting Corporation) on Super Bowl Sunday. Smith will be
breaking down the game between the New Orleans Saints and Indianapolis
Colts, as well as discussing the 2010 Halloween match-up at Wembley
Stadium. He will also conduct a media tour in London in the days leading
up to the Super Bowl.
“I’m definitely excited to go over to London and not only
represent the 49ers, but the NFL as well,” said Smith. “I think it will be
a fun opportunity to do a little broadcasting work for the Super Bowl,
while also having a chance to build anticipation for our game next year
against the Broncos. I know our team is excited for the opportunity to
play in front of our fans overseas.”
In addition, a team of 49ers cheerleaders are heading to
London to perform at the NFL’s official London Super Bowl party, an event
that will be attended by more than 2,000 fans.
MEXICO FACES BOLIVIA AT CANDLESTICK
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Jan. 28, 2010) - The San Jose
Earthquakes and Soccer United Marketing (SUM) announced today that the
Mexican National Team will face Bolivia on Wednesday, Feb. 24 at
Candlestick Park in San Francisco, presented by Visa. The match kicks off
at 8 p.m. PT and will be the first of six matches that Mexico will play in
the United States in preparation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
A Visa presale begins Jan. 28 and tickets go on sale to the
general public at 11 a.m. PT on Friday, Jan. 29. Tickets for the game are
available by visiting www.Tickets.com
or calling 1-800-225-2277. For group tickets and to purchase suites, fans
should call 1-877-QUAKE-01. Tickets range from $25-$80. A special two-pack
that includes a ticket to the Mexico-Bolivia game and a ticket to the
Earthquakes season opener against Real Salt Lake on March 27 can be
purchased for $30.
QUAKES SIGN DANVILLE NATIVE
WONDOLOWSKI
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Jan. 27, 2010) - The San Jose
Earthquakes announced today that the team has signed forward Chris
Wondolowski to a new contract. Per league and team policy, terms of the
deal were not disclosed.
"We are happy to sign Chris to a new contract,” said General Manager of
Soccer Operations John Doyle. "He is a hard-worker and a local player, who
played well for us last year after we acquired him. He gives us a lot of
options because of his versatility and he is a good finisher.”
Wondolowski was acquired by San Jose in June of 2009 and he
appeared in 14 games for the Earthquakes, scoring three goals and notching
one assist. One of his most memorable moments from 2009 came on Aug. 22
against Kansas City at home when he scored the stoppage-time winner.
He arrived in San Jose via trade amidst his fourth year with
the Houston Dynamo after starting his career with the Earthquakes in 2005.
For the Dynamo, he played in 37 games, scored four goals and notched two
assists, helping them win MLS Cup Championships in 2006 and 2007. In 2008,
he scored three goals in international competitions and helped the Dynamo
reach the final of the SuperLiga tournament.
A native of Danville, Wondolowski was drafted by the
Earthquakes in the 2005 MLS Supplemental Draft and spent the 2005 season
with the team, helping them win the Supporter’s Shield. He appeared in two
games in the regular season for the Quakes. He also played in all 12
reserve league matches and led the team in scoring with eight goals.
KINGS ROOKIES NAMED TO ROOKIE
CHALLENGE
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Jan. 27, 2010) - Sacramento
Kings rookies Tyreke Evans and Omri Casspi were selected to the 2010
T-Mobile Rookie Challenge & Youth Jam to be held on Friday, February 12 in
Dallas during NBA All-Star 2010. The participants in the T-Mobile Rookie
Challenge & Youth Jam were selected by the NBA's assistant coaches, with
each team submitting one ballot.
The last time a Kings player participated in the NBA All-Star Weekend was
in 2004 when Brad Miller and Peja Stojakovic were members of the Western
Conference All-Star team. Stojakovic also was a 3-Point Shootout
participant that year, finishing second. Evans and Casspi become the
seventh and eighth Kings players to play in the Rookie Challenge, joining
Brian Grant and Michael Smith (1995), Tyus Edney (1996), Michael Stewart
(1998), Jason Williams (2000), and Hedo Turkoglu (2002).
Evans is averaging a team-leading 20.8 points (45.8 FG%, 79.1
FT%), 4.8 rebounds, a team-high 4.9 assists, 1.50 steals, and 37.1 minutes
per game in starting 40 contests this season. A two-time Western
Conference Rookie of Month award-winner, Evans leads all rookies in
scoring and minutes played, and is second in assists and steals.
Casspi, the first Israeli-born player in the NBA, is
averaging 12.2 points (47.5 FG%, 39.6 3pt%, 63.3 FT%), 4.8 rebounds, 1.4
assists, and 27.6 minutes per game in 42 appearances, including 16 starts.
Among rookies, Casspi is ranked third in three-point field goal
percentage, fourth in field goal percentage, fifth in scoring and tied for
fifth in rebounding.
JUSTIN SMITH NAMED TO PRO BOWL
SQUAD
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (Jan. 26, 2010) - The San
Francisco 49ers today announced that DT Justin Smith has been named to the
2010 NFC Pro Bowl squad. Smith, who had been selected as an alternate at
defensive tackle, replaces Minnesota DT Kevin Williams who will not play
in the game due to injury. It marks the nine-year veteran’s first Pro Bowl
appearance.
The 49ers will now have five representatives playing in the game – RB
Frank Gore, TE Vernon Davis, LB Patrick Willis and P Andy Lee – marking
the highest San Francisco delegation since the team sent six players
following the 2002 season. In the past 60 years, the 49ers have sent
five-or-more representatives to the Pro Bowl 34 times.
“This is a great opportunity for me to represent my team in
Miami … it’s been a long time coming,” said Smith. “To be able to go there
and play with four of my teammates makes it even better.”
Smith started all 16 games for the 49ers in 2009 and ranked
second on the team with six sacks. He led all 49ers defensive linemen in
tackles (90), quarterback pressures (78) and quarterback hits (52), while
adding two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.
Smith has now recorded at least five sacks in eight of his
nine NFL seasons. A relentless and explosive defender, Smith heads into
the 2010 season with a current active streak of 139 consecutive starts,
which is by far the longest streak of any current NFL defensive lineman (Arz.
DT Darnell Dockett is 2nd with 81).
49ERS TO HOLD GOLD RUSH AUDITIONS
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (Jan. 26, 2010) - The San
Francisco 49ers are hosting open auditions for the opportunity to join the
49ers 2010 Gold Rush Squad. The Gold Rush, presented by Coors Light, are
one of the NFL’s premiere performance groups. Preliminary auditions will
be held on Sunday, March 28 at Maples Pavilion at Stanford University.
Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. and auditions will start promptly at
11:00 a.m.
Applicants will be required to learn a short dance combination taught by a
professional choreographer and perform that routine in a group in front of
a panel of judges. They will be judged on dance ability, crowd appeal,
showmanship and individual applications. At the end of the preliminary
audition, a group of finalists will be selected.
Finalists selected on March 28 must be available for a finals
prep class, interview and final dance audition during the week of March
29th – April 2nd.
Those interested in auditioning should visit
www.49ers.com to download an
application. All applications and application fees must be received, along
with a 5x7 photo, by March 24, 2010.
To prepare for these auditions, the Gold Rush Director will
host workshops throughout March which will include a dance clinic,
audition tips and an information packet. For detailed information about
the workshops, visit www.49ers.com or
call (650) 336-1049.
Over the past 27 years, the 49ers Cheerleaders have
established a reputation as one of the NFL’s premiere performance groups.
The squad has been featured on many national television shows, performed
for numerous USO tours around the world, and appeared in four Super Bowls.
As a 2010 team member you can participate in these special events, cheer
at each 49ers home game, work with our Junior Cheerleader program,
participate in the annual swimsuit calendar photo shoot and more.
UFL TO MOVE REDWOODS TO SACRAMENTO?
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Jan. 26, 2010) - According to an article in the
Jan. 26 edition of The Sacramento Bee, the United Football League
may move its San Francisco franchise to Sacramento for the 2010 season.
The team, currently known as the California Redwoods, would undergo a name
change to more reflect its Sacramento surroundings and play its games at
California State University, Sacramento. The deal is said to also include
replacing the CSUS grass field with artificial turf. To read the complete
article, go here:
UFL Club May
Come To Town.
KINGS' BROCKMAN X-RAYS NEGATIVE
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Jan. 25, 2010) - Sacramento
Kings forward Jon Brockman suffered a bruised left hip during practice
today. Subsequent X-rays and a CT Scan performed at the UC Davis Medical
Center proved negative for any acute injury.
Brockman will be listed as questionable for tomorrow night’s
matchup (1/26) versus the Golden State Warriors.
GIANTS RE-SIGN MOLINA FOR ONE YEAR
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. (Jan. 22, 2010) - In
returning their catching position to the player that has held the position
since 2007, the San Francisco Giants have signed two-time Gold Glove
winner Bengie Molina to a one-year contract, club Senior Vice President
and General Manager Brian Sabean announced today.
Per club policy, financial terms of the contract were not disclosed.
Molina, who hit .265 (130-for-491) with a career-high 20 home runs
along with 80 RBI in 132 games for the Giants last season, has been one of
the best offensive catchers in Giants history. His .278 average since
joining the team in 2007 is the highest among all San Francisco catchers
with at least 350 games while no other backstop has matched his 256 RBI
over any three-year span.
Last season, the 5-foot-11, 225-pound catcher was one of the
top offensive players at his position in the NL, ranking second in home
runs, RBI and extra base hits (44) and fifth in doubles (25). A proven
hitter in clutch situations, Molina, who is a career .290 hitter with
runners in scoring position, led the entire National League with 11
sacrifice flies in 2009 while ranking tied for first with 22 game-winning
RBI and eighth with 28 go-ahead RBI.
One of just four active catchers to have won multiple Gold
Gloves, Molina joins Ivan Rodriguez (13 Gold Gloves), Yadier Molina (two)
and Joe Mauer (two) as the only backstops to take the honor more than
twice, having claimed the American League award in 2002 and 2003.
“We are fortunate to re-sign Bengie and keep him in a Giants
uniform,” said Sabean. “He has been one of the better offensive catchers
since he has been with us and with his knowledge and leadership is a big
asset for our strong pitching staff.”
Molina owns a .276 lifetime average with 205 doubles, 139
home runs and 675 RBI over 1,244 games during his 12-year big league
career with the Angels (1998-2005), Blue Jays (2006) and Giants (2007-09).
The Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico native has posted a .280 or better average
five times, while registering at least 10 home runs in eight campaigns,
including each of his last seven seasons.
With a .994 career fielding mark, the 34-year old owns the
sixth-highest fielding percentage among active catchers. Since 2007,
Molina has thrown out 72 attempted base stealers, the third-most among
active ML receivers.
The Arizona Western Community College product has helped
guide his club to the post season on three occasions, including the 2002
World Championship with the Anaheim Angels. In 29 October contests, he has
posted a .264 average (24-for-91) with seven runs, four doubles, a triple,
three home runs and 12 RBI.
He is the oldest of the three Molina brothers who are all
catchers in the Majors. Jose, who is currently a free agent, helped the
Yankees to a World Series title last season, while Yadier is currently the
starting catcher in St. Louis.
SOLARI NAMED 49ERS OFFENSIVE LINE
COACH
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (Jan. 21, 2010) - The San
Francisco 49ers today announced that they have named Mike Solari offensive
line coach. Solari replaces Chris Foerster, who was hired by the
Washington Redskins earlier today.
Solari, 55, rejoins the 49ers and brings more than 20 years of NFL
offensive coaching experience to San Francisco, after having previously
served as the tight ends/assistant offensive line coach for the 49ers from
1992-96 under legendary coach Bob McKittrick. Solari most recently spent
two seasons (2008-09) as the offensive line coach for the Seattle
Seahawks. Under his direction, tackle Walter Jones made the Pro Bowl in
2008.
Following his initial stint with the 49ers, Solari spent nine
seasons as offensive line coach for Kansas City (1997-2005), three of
which came under current 49ers offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye
(1998-2000), who held the same position for the Chiefs at the time. With
Solari directing the Kansas City offensive line, the team averaged 126.8
rushing yards per game, ranking fourth in the NFL during that time span.
The Daly City, CA, native was promoted by the Chiefs to
offensive coordinator in 2006. During his 11-year tenure in Kansas City,
the team finished in the top 10 in rushing on seven occasions, in the top
five four times, and ranked 6th in the NFL in total offense (359.2 yards
per game) over that span. Solari was one of just six assistant coaches in
team history to record more than a decade of service with the franchise.
Solari’s line produced a trio of Pro Bowl offensive linemen
in 2004 and 2005, in guards Will Shields and Brian Waters, as well as
tackle Willie Roaf. Kansas City became the first club to accomplish that
feat since Dallas from 1993-96. Thanks in part to his strong line, the
Chiefs offense led the league in total offense in 2004 (franchise-record
418.4 ypg) and 2005 (387.0 ypg).
While with the 49ers from 1992 to 1996, Solari was largely
responsible for the development of tight end Brent Jones, who made four
Pro Bowl appearances, and was instrumental in the team’s successful Super
Bowl XXIX season.
Solari began his NFL coaching career with the Dallas Cowboys
in 1987, where he was the assistant offensive line/special teams coach for
two seasons. He moved on to the Phoenix Cardinals for one season, working
with Gene Stallings before joining him at the University of Alabama
(1990-91).
His coaching career began at Mission Bay (CA) High School in
1976, followed by stints at Mira Costa Junior College (1978) and U.S.
International (1979). In 1980, he helped lead Boise State to the NCAA
Division I-AA Championship. He also spent time at the University of
Cincinnati (1981-82), Kansas (1983-85) and served as the offensive
coordinator at the University of Pittsburgh (1986).
A former offensive lineman at San Diego State, he was a
teammate of Chiefs head coach Herm Edwards and Carolina Panthers head
coach John Fox.
LIGHTNING SUSPENDS DAY-TO-DAY
OPERATIONS
STOCKTON, Calif. (Jan. 21, 2010) - The Stockton
Lightning has suspended day-to-day operations for the 2010 season
effective immediately.
The Lightning will continue to research playing opportunities
after the folding of the arenafootball2 league (af2) at the conclusion of
the 2009 playing season. The
largest
indoor football league in the country, the Arena Football League (AFL),
ceased operations at the conclusion of the 2008 season and recently the
AFL and af2 have formed a new league for the 2010 season, Arena Football
One.
Dan Chapman, president of the Stockton Lightning, released
the following statement:
"It is with a great deal of disappointment that the Stockton
Lightning have decided to suspend operations for the upcoming 2010
football season. With the transition of the AFL and af2 developing into
the new "Arena Football One" league, the proposed "lower tier" that was
initially outlined did not become a reality. Furthermore, we have
determined that the business model for the "upper tier", which caters to
larger markets, is not financially sustainable for our organization at
this time. For these reasons, we feel as though we have no other viable
options to play arena football this season"
Season ticket holders who had committed to the upcoming
season will be refunded.
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