If you are looking for Epic Video.
Due to the long weekend and the arduous task of Awards Night, Epic Video will be delayed until tomorrow.
Please also return all uniforms back to school by Friday.
Also, depending on the demand, I will produce an Awards Night DVD recapturing the best moments of the night from last Friday. If you are interested in this DVD, simply click one of the buttons below on this post, whether it would be interesting, funny or cool.
If I get a total of at least 30 checks, I will work on one. I have no problem doing it, I just want to make sure the interest is there.
For now, enjoy the Girls End of Season Wrap Video.
.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
What could've been...
Here are the champions for the division you played in this past spring.
4th Grade Girls - St. John
5th Grade Girls - SAIC
6th/7th Grade Girls - Conveant
8th Grade Girls - OLV over St. Brigid 41-14 (brutal)
Baseball winners will be decided by Wednesday.
4th Grade Girls - St. John
5th Grade Girls - SAIC
6th/7th Grade Girls - Conveant
8th Grade Girls - OLV over St. Brigid 41-14 (brutal)
Baseball winners will be decided by Wednesday.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Oh Buster
Buster Posey underwent successful surgery this morning on his left ankle.
UPDATE: Giants Head Trainer Dave Groeschner announced that Posey is done for the season.
Now Posey's replacement, for now, is Eli Whiteside. Nice guy, formidable player, but not Posey.
My friend, and former coach, the great Tim Lam, shared this parody video with me. Pretty funny, check it out.
UPDATE: Giants Head Trainer Dave Groeschner announced that Posey is done for the season.
Now Posey's replacement, for now, is Eli Whiteside. Nice guy, formidable player, but not Posey.
My friend, and former coach, the great Tim Lam, shared this parody video with me. Pretty funny, check it out.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Awards Night Recap
Thank you everybody for coming out to Awards Night. It was the biggest crowd we have had in four years, and I hope everyone enjoyed themselves.
A quick look at the winners from the night.
Boys Basketball Rookie of the Year - Pablo
Girls Basketball Rookie of the Year - Michaela
Boys Basketball Hustle Player of the Year - Daniel
Girls Basketball Hustle Player of the Year - Precious
Boys Basketball Most Improved Player - Jonathan
Girls Basketball Most Improved Player - Fiona
Boys Basketball Most Valuable Player - Miles
Girls Basketball Most Valuable Player - Marissa
Baseball Game Awards - Jeremy, David and Hartman
Lady Byng Award - Gavin and Timmy
Timmy's Corner Successor - The Shem
Marissa also had her jersey retired.
A quick look at the winners from the night.
Boys Basketball Rookie of the Year - Pablo
Girls Basketball Rookie of the Year - Michaela
Boys Basketball Hustle Player of the Year - Daniel
Girls Basketball Hustle Player of the Year - Precious
Boys Basketball Most Improved Player - Jonathan
Girls Basketball Most Improved Player - Fiona
Boys Basketball Most Valuable Player - Miles
Girls Basketball Most Valuable Player - Marissa
Baseball Game Awards - Jeremy, David and Hartman
Lady Byng Award - Gavin and Timmy
Timmy's Corner Successor - The Shem
Marissa also had her jersey retired.
Awards Night Tonight
A reminder that Awards Night is tonight.
Doors open at 5 p.m. and the show starts at 6:30 p.m.
Don't be late!
Everybody needs a ticket for entry.
Tickets are $13 at the door if you haven't already preordered.
See you all there.
Doors open at 5 p.m. and the show starts at 6:30 p.m.
Don't be late!
Everybody needs a ticket for entry.
Tickets are $13 at the door if you haven't already preordered.
See you all there.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Sharks Post Mortem
I still haven't seen the goal that ended the Sharks' quest at a Stanley Cup. I don't care to, and I don't want to.
Sooner or later, I'm sure I'll see it indirectly, and when the time comes, that's fine.
But last night, and this entire series showcased how cruel and how great the sport of hockey could be. The 2011 Sharks playoff run also represents how a game, series, championship, can be lost in a matter of seconds, if not minutes.
Last night, the game winner was on a fluke goal, one of those goals in hockey, where something strange happens, and the next thing you know, the puck is in the net.
Not a single person on the ice knew where the puck was, until it fell to the stick of a Canucks defensemen, who some how got the puck past Antti Niemi.
And just like that,the hopes and dreams of the Sharks and their fans will have to wait another year.
The Stanley Cup is by far the hardest trophy to win in all of professional sports. It takes four rounds, 16 wins, a great team, healthy bodies, and a little bit of luck.
The Sharks made it three rounds, won nine games, are a pretty good team, didn't have the most healthy bodies, and ran out of luck.
Joe Thornton, the Sharks captain, who has been criticized not only by the media worldwide, and by the fans, played last night with a separated shoulder. He gave it everything he had and laid it all out on the line, but just couldn't force a Game 5.
Big Joe was also playing with a bum pinky he injured late in the season.
"My pinky went in a different direction than it was supposed to," Thornton said. "The top just got cut off and they had to put it back together."
Ryane Clowe, had a shoulder injury even before the playoffs started, and took even more damage when he took a hard body check in Round 2 against the Red Wings.
And they were the only two that had notable injuries. There were probably several other players just as banged up, but they play through it all and absorb even more punishment game after game.
What's great about these athletes, and the entire Sharks organization, is that nobody is making excuses at all. Everybody is taking responsibility for not getting the job done.
Should they be proud they made it this far? Most people would say yes, given they are in the final four for the second straight year and most likely lost to the team that will win the Stanley Cup.
Don't tell that to Patrick Marleau.
"Successful season for us is winning the cup. Anything short is not good enough," Marleau said.
A sports talk show host on the radio a few weeks ago talked about why he felt like it was his duty to try and get as many people to start watching hockey like he did.
He initially didn't have a response, but his partner reminded him that anytime you find joy in something, you tend to want to share it with those around you. The more, the merrier.
When I heard that, I felt just like the host, as I've tried to get as many people into hockey as possible. Have I succeeded? Probably not.
Will I stop trying? Probably not.
There is just something about the game of hockey that is so great that I can't even begin to explain it. One bad line change, a shot a quarter of an inch wide, not being able to clear the puck past the blue line, deflections on pucks that you would never think would go in...
Those were all things, that seem so little, but ultimately doomed the Sharks, and ultimately propelled the Canucks into the Stanley Cup Finals.
Hockey is a great representation of how real life is, and that no matter how perfect of a game you feel you have played, you can still lose.
It's heartbreaking, sad, frustrating, the adjectives can continue forever.
In the end, they lined up, as a team, and went through the handshake line, a tradition that is not seen in any other sport. Shaking the hand of an enemy, and congratulating them on a job well done. More often than not, it's not the CYO handshake that you do because you have been trained to do so. When each player congratulates another player and says, "Good game," they mean it from the heart.
In no other sport will you ever see that type of compassion.
The comraderie of a hockey team is next to none. 18 skaters, 2 goalies, they play for each other. It's not like in other sports when someone hits a home run, records a strikeout, scores a touchdown, dunks a ball, and then a player beats his own chest, motioning to the crowd with the proverbial "Look at me," dance.
After every goal, all the skaters on the ice converge together as one. Then they skate past their bench, giving high fives or hand pounds to each and every one of their teammates.
Hockey is the epitome of a team sport, and playing for each other. They play for the person sitting next to them on the bench. They'll go down and take a 90 mph puck to the groin, because that's what it's going to take to win the game. They bite the bullet, because the guy sitting next to him in the dressing room, would do the exact same thing.
That is the beauty of hockey.
In their 20 seasons of existence, they have made the playoffs 14 out of 20 times, and have yet to make one trip to the Stanley Cup finals.
When will that day come?
I guess the best things in life, are worth the wait.
Sooner or later, I'm sure I'll see it indirectly, and when the time comes, that's fine.
But last night, and this entire series showcased how cruel and how great the sport of hockey could be. The 2011 Sharks playoff run also represents how a game, series, championship, can be lost in a matter of seconds, if not minutes.
Last night, the game winner was on a fluke goal, one of those goals in hockey, where something strange happens, and the next thing you know, the puck is in the net.
Not a single person on the ice knew where the puck was, until it fell to the stick of a Canucks defensemen, who some how got the puck past Antti Niemi.
And just like that,the hopes and dreams of the Sharks and their fans will have to wait another year.
The Stanley Cup is by far the hardest trophy to win in all of professional sports. It takes four rounds, 16 wins, a great team, healthy bodies, and a little bit of luck.
The Sharks made it three rounds, won nine games, are a pretty good team, didn't have the most healthy bodies, and ran out of luck.
Joe Thornton, the Sharks captain, who has been criticized not only by the media worldwide, and by the fans, played last night with a separated shoulder. He gave it everything he had and laid it all out on the line, but just couldn't force a Game 5.
Big Joe was also playing with a bum pinky he injured late in the season.
"My pinky went in a different direction than it was supposed to," Thornton said. "The top just got cut off and they had to put it back together."
Ryane Clowe, had a shoulder injury even before the playoffs started, and took even more damage when he took a hard body check in Round 2 against the Red Wings.
And they were the only two that had notable injuries. There were probably several other players just as banged up, but they play through it all and absorb even more punishment game after game.
What's great about these athletes, and the entire Sharks organization, is that nobody is making excuses at all. Everybody is taking responsibility for not getting the job done.
Should they be proud they made it this far? Most people would say yes, given they are in the final four for the second straight year and most likely lost to the team that will win the Stanley Cup.
Don't tell that to Patrick Marleau.
"Successful season for us is winning the cup. Anything short is not good enough," Marleau said.
A sports talk show host on the radio a few weeks ago talked about why he felt like it was his duty to try and get as many people to start watching hockey like he did.
He initially didn't have a response, but his partner reminded him that anytime you find joy in something, you tend to want to share it with those around you. The more, the merrier.
When I heard that, I felt just like the host, as I've tried to get as many people into hockey as possible. Have I succeeded? Probably not.
Will I stop trying? Probably not.
There is just something about the game of hockey that is so great that I can't even begin to explain it. One bad line change, a shot a quarter of an inch wide, not being able to clear the puck past the blue line, deflections on pucks that you would never think would go in...
Those were all things, that seem so little, but ultimately doomed the Sharks, and ultimately propelled the Canucks into the Stanley Cup Finals.
Hockey is a great representation of how real life is, and that no matter how perfect of a game you feel you have played, you can still lose.
It's heartbreaking, sad, frustrating, the adjectives can continue forever.
In the end, they lined up, as a team, and went through the handshake line, a tradition that is not seen in any other sport. Shaking the hand of an enemy, and congratulating them on a job well done. More often than not, it's not the CYO handshake that you do because you have been trained to do so. When each player congratulates another player and says, "Good game," they mean it from the heart.
In no other sport will you ever see that type of compassion.
The comraderie of a hockey team is next to none. 18 skaters, 2 goalies, they play for each other. It's not like in other sports when someone hits a home run, records a strikeout, scores a touchdown, dunks a ball, and then a player beats his own chest, motioning to the crowd with the proverbial "Look at me," dance.
After every goal, all the skaters on the ice converge together as one. Then they skate past their bench, giving high fives or hand pounds to each and every one of their teammates.
Hockey is the epitome of a team sport, and playing for each other. They play for the person sitting next to them on the bench. They'll go down and take a 90 mph puck to the groin, because that's what it's going to take to win the game. They bite the bullet, because the guy sitting next to him in the dressing room, would do the exact same thing.
That is the beauty of hockey.
In their 20 seasons of existence, they have made the playoffs 14 out of 20 times, and have yet to make one trip to the Stanley Cup finals.
When will that day come?
I guess the best things in life, are worth the wait.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Monday, May 23, 2011
All-Star Sunday and Sharks thoughts
I guess MMQ has come to a conclusion for this school year since there isn't really anything to critique and moan and groan about...well, maybe the Sharks, and we'll get to that in just a bit.
First, we'll start with Girls All-Star Sunday.
I thought all in all that Girls All-Star Sunday yesterday was one of our best events in the past few years. It might have been the fact that we had two sessions and not everything was crammed together like on most Sundays.
Every event had a touch of intrigue to it and for those who did show up, it was a pretty fun event to be apart of and witness.
Unfortunately, some people didn't get the memo to attend.
But for those who did you got to see some of our girls who graduated in the past few years. Tiffy was a beast and scored 20 points, and it's crazy that her class, which graduated in 2007, are going off to college.
It was personally nice to see four girls from my favorite team, Tiffy, Susan, Clarissa and Tiff play together again. It's unfortunate the other three girls on that team decided not to accept their invite for the game...
Congratulations to the St. Mary's class of 2007, who are either graduating or about to graduate in the next week or so. Special recognition to our coaches Freddy, Andrew, Tiffy and Justin.
The Larry Wong Coaches Game was a treat, because you got to see your coaches play in a competitive game. It was a high scoring affair that ended in a 80-79 game. A few upload of the entire game should be available in the upcoming weeks, as there was a lot of great action throughout the afternoon.
Marissa won the 3 point shootout - shocker. We haven't had that many 3 pointers this year from the girls' teams, and Marissa was the only girl in a regular season game to actually drain a three ball.
To the afternoon, where Jamie outlasted Edwena in the Young Stars Shootout. Edwena put on a display reminiscent of what Jonathan did a year ago, and hit all five shots at the first station. And like Jonathan, Edwena ran out of gas in round two, as Jamie ran away with the title this season.
2-Ball is always fun, because you get to see coaches, like Freddy, and people like myself, stink it up. I ruined Gavy's chance at a win making only one shot from the one point spot.
I think the secret to being good at 2 Ball is not to be infatuated with the 5, 6 and 7 point shots, but to be money on the 2, 3 and 4s.
That's what happened with Andrew and Tiffany as Tiffany was lights out fro the 2s, 3s and 4s. The same could be said for the winners, Emily and Michaela who both were on fire in round two, and scored a 28. I'll have to look it up to see whether their 28 points is an all-time record for 2 Ball.
School-wide knockout was great as usual. About 30 students participated in the event. I wish there were more so it could be epicer - if that's a word. The girls pwned the guys this year, as the guys dropped like flies. It came down to Fiona and three 8th grade girls, Beverlyn, Amanda and Serina, with Beverlyn eventually knocking out Amanda.
The All-Star Game was fun, definitely good to see the girls from the class of 2010 play again. They were rusty as expected and lost by 10 points. They were also missing Sally, which would've probably made the game a little more interesting in terms of how the game played out. It would be really cool to see how 8th grade teams would match up if they were all at their 8th grade skill level, but that's only just a dream.
We've had a lot of strong girls teams in 8th grade the past five years or so, but this was a glimpse of something that can be done for the future.
The greatness that is Henry Deng suggested to me that one day in the future, we hold a tournament for former teams. The premise is that you would gather everybody, or almost everybody who played on your team from your 8th grade year, and then duke it out against other classes.
Probably the teams who are in college will hold an advantage just cause of their pure size, but this would be one heck of an event. Also a good fundraiser I believe.
Something like that will definitely be in the works for next season.
Now onto the Sharks, plain and simple, get the first goal in Game 5 and go from there. Hockey is such a cruel sport that you can out shoot a team 35-13 and still lose by two goals.
If the beard is at Awards Night, it will be good news as the Sharks will have forced a Game 7.
Big week on the blog coming so be sure to check back daily. Have a good Monday night of wrestling.
First, we'll start with Girls All-Star Sunday.
I thought all in all that Girls All-Star Sunday yesterday was one of our best events in the past few years. It might have been the fact that we had two sessions and not everything was crammed together like on most Sundays.
Every event had a touch of intrigue to it and for those who did show up, it was a pretty fun event to be apart of and witness.
Unfortunately, some people didn't get the memo to attend.
But for those who did you got to see some of our girls who graduated in the past few years. Tiffy was a beast and scored 20 points, and it's crazy that her class, which graduated in 2007, are going off to college.
It was personally nice to see four girls from my favorite team, Tiffy, Susan, Clarissa and Tiff play together again. It's unfortunate the other three girls on that team decided not to accept their invite for the game...
Congratulations to the St. Mary's class of 2007, who are either graduating or about to graduate in the next week or so. Special recognition to our coaches Freddy, Andrew, Tiffy and Justin.
The Larry Wong Coaches Game was a treat, because you got to see your coaches play in a competitive game. It was a high scoring affair that ended in a 80-79 game. A few upload of the entire game should be available in the upcoming weeks, as there was a lot of great action throughout the afternoon.
Marissa won the 3 point shootout - shocker. We haven't had that many 3 pointers this year from the girls' teams, and Marissa was the only girl in a regular season game to actually drain a three ball.
To the afternoon, where Jamie outlasted Edwena in the Young Stars Shootout. Edwena put on a display reminiscent of what Jonathan did a year ago, and hit all five shots at the first station. And like Jonathan, Edwena ran out of gas in round two, as Jamie ran away with the title this season.
2-Ball is always fun, because you get to see coaches, like Freddy, and people like myself, stink it up. I ruined Gavy's chance at a win making only one shot from the one point spot.
I think the secret to being good at 2 Ball is not to be infatuated with the 5, 6 and 7 point shots, but to be money on the 2, 3 and 4s.
That's what happened with Andrew and Tiffany as Tiffany was lights out fro the 2s, 3s and 4s. The same could be said for the winners, Emily and Michaela who both were on fire in round two, and scored a 28. I'll have to look it up to see whether their 28 points is an all-time record for 2 Ball.
School-wide knockout was great as usual. About 30 students participated in the event. I wish there were more so it could be epicer - if that's a word. The girls pwned the guys this year, as the guys dropped like flies. It came down to Fiona and three 8th grade girls, Beverlyn, Amanda and Serina, with Beverlyn eventually knocking out Amanda.
The All-Star Game was fun, definitely good to see the girls from the class of 2010 play again. They were rusty as expected and lost by 10 points. They were also missing Sally, which would've probably made the game a little more interesting in terms of how the game played out. It would be really cool to see how 8th grade teams would match up if they were all at their 8th grade skill level, but that's only just a dream.
We've had a lot of strong girls teams in 8th grade the past five years or so, but this was a glimpse of something that can be done for the future.
The greatness that is Henry Deng suggested to me that one day in the future, we hold a tournament for former teams. The premise is that you would gather everybody, or almost everybody who played on your team from your 8th grade year, and then duke it out against other classes.
Probably the teams who are in college will hold an advantage just cause of their pure size, but this would be one heck of an event. Also a good fundraiser I believe.
Something like that will definitely be in the works for next season.
Now onto the Sharks, plain and simple, get the first goal in Game 5 and go from there. Hockey is such a cruel sport that you can out shoot a team 35-13 and still lose by two goals.
If the beard is at Awards Night, it will be good news as the Sharks will have forced a Game 7.
Big week on the blog coming so be sure to check back daily. Have a good Monday night of wrestling.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Beard in danger, Girls All-Star Sunday results
Unreal.
The Sharks outshot the Canucks 35-13 and lost 4-2 in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals. They now trail the series (3-1) and will need to win three straight games in order to continue on to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Their margin of error is none, as one loss will end their quest for a title.
Girls Alumni Game
The team of Clarissa Lee, Tiffanie Vuong, Tiffanie Yu, Emily Tom and Susan Yao beat Class of 2009 girls Vivian Leung, Shari Wong, Sophia Nguyen and Michelle Chiu by a final score of 38-20.
Jamie Zhao played on the team of class of 2009.
Tiffy was a beast and scored 20 points for her team. Susan added 12 points in the win.
Sophia and Shari both scored 8 points for the class of 2009.
Marissa takes 3 point contest
Marissa won the 3 point shootout for the second consecutive year by a score of 9-4 over Tiffany.
Larry Wong Coaches Game
The team of James Chiu, Andrew Chuong, Freddy Ng, Derek Kwong, Tiffanie Yu and Leslie Truong beat the team consisting of Larry Wong, Alex Kawashima, John Wang, Calvin Ng, Jamie Zhao and Megan Yuen 80-79.
The winning team was led by Leslie who had a team high 27 points. Andrew 23 points, James 19 points, Freddy 5 points, Tiff 4 points and Derek 2 points rounded out the scoring for the winners.
The losing team was led by Alex, who had a game high 28 points. John Wang 22 points, Larry Wong 16 points, Jamie Zhao 5 points, Calvin Ng and Megan Yuen 4 points, rounds out the scoring for their team.
The biggest moment of the game was when Alex, who had no mercy for his fellow coach Leslie, and swatted her like there was no tomorrow.
Jamie takes Young Stars Shootout
Jamie outlasted Edwena in the final round of the Young Star Shootout by a final score of 10-2 to take the title of Young Stars Shootout Champion 2011.
Edwena hit her first five shots in the first round, and had a high of 9 points in round one.
Emily wins back-to-back 2 Ball trophies
The team of Michaela and Emily beat the team of Tiffany and Andrew in the final round 28-14 to win Coach/Player 2-Ball.
Emily becomes the first person to ever win this competition as a player and a coach.
Beverlyn is the ultimate knockout champion, as she beat out her teammates Amanda and Serina in the final three. This game was dominated by the girls as Jeremy was the last guy remaining in the final seven.
The first person to be knocked out in this game was Marissa.
Class of 2011 beats Class of 2010
The 8th grade girls beat the class of 2010 20-10 in the Girls All-Star Game.
The class of 2010 only had four of their six players in the game. Pamela, 7th grader and Jamie Zhao rounded out the class of 2010 team, who looked a tad rusty, as expected.
Gavy scored 6 points and was named the game's MVP.
Melinda, Tiff Ye, Tianna and Emily represented last year's 8th grade.
The Sharks outshot the Canucks 35-13 and lost 4-2 in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals. They now trail the series (3-1) and will need to win three straight games in order to continue on to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Their margin of error is none, as one loss will end their quest for a title.
Girls Alumni Game
The team of Clarissa Lee, Tiffanie Vuong, Tiffanie Yu, Emily Tom and Susan Yao beat Class of 2009 girls Vivian Leung, Shari Wong, Sophia Nguyen and Michelle Chiu by a final score of 38-20.
Jamie Zhao played on the team of class of 2009.
Tiffy was a beast and scored 20 points for her team. Susan added 12 points in the win.
Sophia and Shari both scored 8 points for the class of 2009.
Marissa takes 3 point contest
Marissa won the 3 point shootout for the second consecutive year by a score of 9-4 over Tiffany.
Larry Wong Coaches Game
The team of James Chiu, Andrew Chuong, Freddy Ng, Derek Kwong, Tiffanie Yu and Leslie Truong beat the team consisting of Larry Wong, Alex Kawashima, John Wang, Calvin Ng, Jamie Zhao and Megan Yuen 80-79.
The winning team was led by Leslie who had a team high 27 points. Andrew 23 points, James 19 points, Freddy 5 points, Tiff 4 points and Derek 2 points rounded out the scoring for the winners.
The losing team was led by Alex, who had a game high 28 points. John Wang 22 points, Larry Wong 16 points, Jamie Zhao 5 points, Calvin Ng and Megan Yuen 4 points, rounds out the scoring for their team.
The biggest moment of the game was when Alex, who had no mercy for his fellow coach Leslie, and swatted her like there was no tomorrow.
Jamie takes Young Stars Shootout
Jamie outlasted Edwena in the final round of the Young Star Shootout by a final score of 10-2 to take the title of Young Stars Shootout Champion 2011.
Edwena hit her first five shots in the first round, and had a high of 9 points in round one.
Emily wins back-to-back 2 Ball trophies
The team of Michaela and Emily beat the team of Tiffany and Andrew in the final round 28-14 to win Coach/Player 2-Ball.
Emily becomes the first person to ever win this competition as a player and a coach.
Beverlyn is the ultimate knockout champion, as she beat out her teammates Amanda and Serina in the final three. This game was dominated by the girls as Jeremy was the last guy remaining in the final seven.
The first person to be knocked out in this game was Marissa.
Class of 2011 beats Class of 2010
The 8th grade girls beat the class of 2010 20-10 in the Girls All-Star Game.
The class of 2010 only had four of their six players in the game. Pamela, 7th grader and Jamie Zhao rounded out the class of 2010 team, who looked a tad rusty, as expected.
Gavy scored 6 points and was named the game's MVP.
Melinda, Tiff Ye, Tianna and Emily represented last year's 8th grade.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Girls All-Star Sunday Tomorrow
• 11:15 a.m. – Girls Alumni Game
• 12 p.m – 3 Point Shootout
• 12:30 p.m. – Coaches Game
• 4 p.m. – Young Stars Shootout
• 4:30 p.m. – 2-Ball All Grades
• 5 p.m. – School-Wide Knockout
• 5:15 p.m. – Girls All-Star Game, 8th Grade vs Class of 2010
• Halftime Show: Million Dollar Shot/Leis vs Tsuis
Note: Please arrive 30 minutes prior to event. Event times can start up to a half hour earlier.
3-point Shootout Contestants
Marissa, Amanda, Serina, Pamela, Tiffany
Leis vs Tsuis
Tiffany/Jamie/Brett vs Fiona/Hartman
Special Guest Timekeeper: Calson
Coaches Game
Calvin To, James Chiu, Alex Kawashima, Jamie Zhao, Freddy Ng, Calvin Ng, Megan Yuen, Larry Wong, John Wang, Leslie Truong, Andrew Chuong, Jamie Zhao, Tiffanie Vuong, Dennison Fong, Chris Yee
Girls Alumni Game
Tiffanie Yu, Jamie Zhao, Tiffanie Vuong, Susan Yao, Sophia Nguyen, Michelle Chiu, Clarissa Lee, Shari Wong, Vivian Leung
2-Ball
Jamie – Alexis
Emily – Michaela
Calvin – Alexandria
Alex – Victoria
Freddy – Kelly
Tiffy – Jocelyn
Andrew – Tiffany
Tiff – Marissa
James – Catharine
Bryan - Gavy
Friday, May 20, 2011
Goodbye to Macho Man Randy Savage
The wrestling world lost an icon this morning as the Macho Man Randy Savage died at the age of 58.
This was probably before your time, but I'm sure you may have parents or older siblings or cousins that watched one of the best performers in the wrestling ring.
Everyone needs to go out and buy a Slim Jim today and eat one.
This was probably before your time, but I'm sure you may have parents or older siblings or cousins that watched one of the best performers in the wrestling ring.
Everyone needs to go out and buy a Slim Jim today and eat one.
Marissa selected to Achievment Game
Marissa will represent St. Mary's next Monday at the CYO Achievement Game.
This game held annually is a collective showcase of the best 8th graders in the San Francisco CYO program.
Her game will start at 6:30 p.m.
Previous representatives for the girls in the modern day era were Tiffanie Yu, Marissa's sister, Sophia Nguyen and Melinda Leung.
This game held annually is a collective showcase of the best 8th graders in the San Francisco CYO program.
Her game will start at 6:30 p.m.
Previous representatives for the girls in the modern day era were Tiffanie Yu, Marissa's sister, Sophia Nguyen and Melinda Leung.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Inspirational quote of the day...
"There are always two choices, two paths to take. One is easy and it's only reward is that it's easy."
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
8th grade can't hold early lead, David hits a homer
The 8th grade baseball team went up early by a score of 6-1, but the defense unraveled late and they ended up losing by a final score of 12-7.
David added to his fine season and had a 3 run homer which at the time staked the 8th graders out to a five run cushion after the second inning.
But again, it was the defense and the errors which caused the team to unravel. Any time the ball is put in play, the team cannot consistently field, and they wounded up beating themselves.
Simple things like the dropped third strike absolutely haunted them again.
Offensively, you can't complain at all as they put seven runs across the plate, a season high. But without the defense, it's just an ugly game that could've been something special.
It was a very makeshift like game as there were no bases or umpire. Both teams were forced to use glove as bases.
Despite the poor defense overall, Jeremy and Justin converted on a double play late in the game, Jeremy catching a pop fly, then doubling off a runner from third.
Their final game of the regular season is Saturday morning.
Thanks to Justin who contributed to this report.
David added to his fine season and had a 3 run homer which at the time staked the 8th graders out to a five run cushion after the second inning.
But again, it was the defense and the errors which caused the team to unravel. Any time the ball is put in play, the team cannot consistently field, and they wounded up beating themselves.
Simple things like the dropped third strike absolutely haunted them again.
Offensively, you can't complain at all as they put seven runs across the plate, a season high. But without the defense, it's just an ugly game that could've been something special.
It was a very makeshift like game as there were no bases or umpire. Both teams were forced to use glove as bases.
Despite the poor defense overall, Jeremy and Justin converted on a double play late in the game, Jeremy catching a pop fly, then doubling off a runner from third.
Their final game of the regular season is Saturday morning.
Thanks to Justin who contributed to this report.
Girls All-Star Sunday
• 11:15 a.m. – Girls Alumni Game
• 12 p.m – 3 Point Shootout
• 12:30 p.m. – Coaches Game
• 4 p.m. – Young Stars Shootout
• 4:30 p.m. – 2-Ball All Grades
• 5 p.m. – School-Wide Knockout
• 5:15 p.m. – Girls All-Star Game, 8th Grade vs Class of 2010
• Halftime Show: Million Dollar Shot/Leis vs Tsuis
Note: Please arrive 30 minutes prior to event. Event times can start up to a half hour earlier.
3-point Shootout Contestants
Marissa, Amanda, Serina, Pamela, Tiffany
Leis vs Tsuis
Tiffany/Jamie/Brett vs Fiona/Hartman
Special Guest Timekeeper: Calson
Coaches Game
Calvin To, James Chiu, Alex Kawashima, Jamie Zhao, Freddy Ng, Calvin Ng, Megan Yuen, Larry Wong, John Wang, Leslie Truong, Andrew Chuong, Jamie Zhao, Tiffanie Vuong, Dennison Fong, Chris Yee
Girls Alumni Game
Tiffanie Yu, Jamie Zhao, Tiffanie Vuong, Susan Yao, Sophia Nguyen, Michelle Chiu, Clarissa Lee, Shari Wong, Vivian Leung
2-Ball
Jamie – Alexis
Emily – Michaela
Calvin – Alexandria
Alex – Victoria
Freddy – Kelly
Tiffy – Jocelyn
Andrew – Tiffany
Tiff – Marissa
James – Catharine
Bryan - Gavy
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Epic Video Tuesdays
The epicness this week is epic beyond proportion. A classic Timmy's Corner as well as the full list of nominees for the year end awards for St. Mary's Athletics.
Have you read MMQ? If not, scroll down.
The return of the music list since you all enjoy my music so much...
PART 1
James Blunt - Beautiful
Hockey Talk: Metallica - Seek and Destroy
8th Grade Girls Reax: Danity Kane - Damaged
PART 2
Awards Nominees: Switchfoot - Stars
Girls Recap Video: Taio Cruz and Kylie Minogue - Higher
Have you read MMQ? If not, scroll down.
The return of the music list since you all enjoy my music so much...
PART 1
James Blunt - Beautiful
Hockey Talk: Metallica - Seek and Destroy
8th Grade Girls Reax: Danity Kane - Damaged
PART 2
Awards Nominees: Switchfoot - Stars
Girls Recap Video: Taio Cruz and Kylie Minogue - Higher
Monday, May 16, 2011
Monday Morning Quarterback Returns
 | ||
| Boston Rob, winner of Survivor Redemption Island. This was Rob's fourth time playing the game |
Monday Morning Quarterback
One who criticizes or passes judgment from a position of hindsight
________________________________________________________________________
Welcome back to Monday Morning Quarterback, MMQ as we call it. Haven't done this in a few weeks so I hope I am not rusty. Today's sole focus will be on the 8th grade girls playoff game and also their season. We will do team reviews for all girls basketball teams this week as well as the season comes to an end.
This year's 8th grade girls team was prone to have a game like this. Throughout the year, they would turn the ball over, miss easy shots, and just be a step slow to the ball.
On the other hand, they were also capable of playing some really good defense, make clutch baskets and take care of the ball.
In Friday night's game, you saw the best of both worlds. But when it came to crunch time, the former showed up a lot more than the latter.
In the last minutes of the game, when they needed a bucket in the worst way, they barely got off a shot. I can't even remember one solid look at the hoop in the final minutes of the game.
Going into the game, it was key for them to take care of the ball, and collectively, they literally dropped the ball.
To make up for turnovers, they would need to take advantage of every easy bucket, and they also could not do that.
I'm not here to make excuses, but this team was a collection of girls from four different schools. Everyone pretty much came to Sunday practices, but during the week, having a full squad never happened. The team chemistry did not have enough time to grow and it was evident in their seven point loss Friday night.
The team was elevated two divisions, and in my opinion, they didn't elevate their game enough consistently to compete at a higher level. There were definitely games and times throughout the season that they showed that they are capable of hanging with the best.
Against the undefeated team in the division, they were up a point midway through the fourth, and this was at the beginning of the season, when things weren't even clicking. Marissa was sick and not at 100%, something that the team dealt with all season, and yet, here they were in control of a game against the soon to be division champions.
During their comeback and stretches of the second half Friday night, this team showed their potential, and if they played at their best, I sincerely believe they could be winning the championship tomorrow night.
Unfortunately, this team battled what every team has to battle, and that was consistency. They didn't do the good things on a minute to minute basis.
They started off the game flat and scored only 5 points heading into halftime.
The one thing that I will look at more than anything from an analyst's point of view, is that for a team that had some tall players in the post, they didn't rebound well at all.
The ball more often than not slipped through finger trips, loose balls weren't picked up, and they weren't physical enough to play against the tough teams. That, to me, was their ultimate undoing.
Now onto the good and the positive.
Gavy and Precious both added some much needed grit and played to their best in a little over three months of organized basketball. Without them, this team probably wouldn't have made the playoffs.
If you were there Friday, you could agree that Gavy was the one player on St. Mary's who put all she had on the line and did everything she could to put the girls into the championship.
Precious was the quickest girl on the team and in a few short months had the aggressive nature in her to shoot the ball. She wanted to contribute and wasn't afraid to make mistakes. She was fearless.
The original four, Marissa, Beverlyn, Catharine and Serina have been together for four years, as they came from a team that won only two games in their first year, back to back championships the next two, and then on the doorstep for another one in their 8th grade year.
Amanda, in her second year, was incredibly key in the championship in 7th grade, because without her, there would've been no team at all. And to top it off, she was a contributor for her two years with this team and just not a body that stood out on the court.
All in all, it's not easy to win a championship, especially when the odds are stacked against you. You could see the effort was there to go for a three-peat, but sometimes things just do not pan out the way you want it to.
One thing that I forgot to share with the team in their final huddle was that a lot of life is about timing. In a perfect world, these girls could all go to the same school, and play on the same team since third grade, and grow together year after year.
But this world is not perfect, and you have to deal with the cards you are given. These girls did what they could, but came up short, and no one can fault them for that.
In the end, as you can see in Beverlyn's note about the team, it is their friendships and the time they spent together that will be bigger than the game of basketball.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Thomas gets RBI and makes first catch in 5th/6th grade loss
Thomas snagged a pop fly to left field and then came up the next inning and hit an opposite field triple for an RBI in the 5th/6th grade's loss this afternoon.
Justin started for the team again, but once again failed to get much support defensively, as errors once again did the team in on the field.
Offensively, they swung the bats pretty well, and picked up another 4 runs. Brandon got the first run in on an RBI groundout, which scored Raymond, who stole two bases during the at-bat.
There were some bright spots on defense as Brandon recorded his first putout of the year, when he one hopped a throw to first to get the out, after fielding a grounder at third.
Willard made a catch on a pop up at second base for the second consecutive game.
The 5th/6th graders conclude their regular season next Saturday afternoon.
Justin started for the team again, but once again failed to get much support defensively, as errors once again did the team in on the field.
Offensively, they swung the bats pretty well, and picked up another 4 runs. Brandon got the first run in on an RBI groundout, which scored Raymond, who stole two bases during the at-bat.
There were some bright spots on defense as Brandon recorded his first putout of the year, when he one hopped a throw to first to get the out, after fielding a grounder at third.
Willard made a catch on a pop up at second base for the second consecutive game.
The 5th/6th graders conclude their regular season next Saturday afternoon.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
A reflection on the 8th grade girls season
By Beverlyn Law
Even though we didn't win the playoffs, our last year together as a team was the best year. We made new friends, (Presh and Gavy <3) jumped two divisions, and played our hardest out there. We were simply amazing. For anyone who disagrees, stop being so pessimistic. I don't regret any of this; the 7 of us shared an unforgettable experience that no one else will ever relive. [As i'm writing this, I'm crying tears of joy.]
We did amazing this season. I think that this was our best season because we all improved so much and put our greatest effort out there on the court. We couldn't have gone this far in the season without our amazing teamwork.
Don't have any regrets about anything. Yeah, we messed up sometimes but its okay because we still had a great season together! Our friendship is even stronger because we were a team and depended on each other on the court. Jumping two divisions is tough and we were not bad at all! We played our hardest out there and have improved tremendously throughout the whole season.
We shouldn't be too hard on ourselves. There are so many adjectives that can describe our experience together:
amazing, awesome, unforgettable, spectacular, wonderful, magical, beautiful, super, special, crazy, fun!...
For my teammates who have shared this amazing season with me! I LOVE YOU GUYS!
Gavy and Presh, I just met you this year and I feel like we're really close, like family. Presh, you are an amazing basketball player who's so willing to learn and dive for the ball. Gavy, you have improved so much! You're a great rebounder who isn't afraid of getting hurt! (:
Amanda, I love how you never give up and are always trying your hardest just like last year when you were new to the team. (:
Catharine, you fell soo little this year! But when you did fall, it was to get the ball. You were great this season!
Serina, your an amazing and my favorite point guard! I love it when you warn us or tell us to watch out for someone out there on the court. TEAMWORK (: thanks for being an awesome point guard!
Marissa, you = amazing. I love how you weren't afraid of driving in or getting hurt. You're strong and you played so much even when you were sick. You never gave up, thank you for always having faith in the team(:
We all improved thanks to our three great coaches!
Bryan, you yell a lot, but thank you for your honesty. It was interesting and fun having you as our coach this year(: Thanks for never giving up on us!
Tiff, you never gave up on us and have always told us to play our hardest. Thanks for being our coach again! (:
James, thank you for being our coach again and all your encouraging words; it means a lot to us.(: Thank you for always being there for us!
This season was simply AMAZING. I loved every moment of it. Thank you guys for sharing this wonderful experience with me. (": I LOVE ALL OF YOU GUYS TO DEATH!!!!!! <3
Even though we didn't win the playoffs, our last year together as a team was the best year. We made new friends, (Presh and Gavy <3) jumped two divisions, and played our hardest out there. We were simply amazing. For anyone who disagrees, stop being so pessimistic. I don't regret any of this; the 7 of us shared an unforgettable experience that no one else will ever relive. [As i'm writing this, I'm crying tears of joy.]
We did amazing this season. I think that this was our best season because we all improved so much and put our greatest effort out there on the court. We couldn't have gone this far in the season without our amazing teamwork.
Don't have any regrets about anything. Yeah, we messed up sometimes but its okay because we still had a great season together! Our friendship is even stronger because we were a team and depended on each other on the court. Jumping two divisions is tough and we were not bad at all! We played our hardest out there and have improved tremendously throughout the whole season.
We shouldn't be too hard on ourselves. There are so many adjectives that can describe our experience together:
amazing, awesome, unforgettable, spectacular, wonderful, magical, beautiful, super, special, crazy, fun!...
For my teammates who have shared this amazing season with me! I LOVE YOU GUYS!
Gavy and Presh, I just met you this year and I feel like we're really close, like family. Presh, you are an amazing basketball player who's so willing to learn and dive for the ball. Gavy, you have improved so much! You're a great rebounder who isn't afraid of getting hurt! (:
Amanda, I love how you never give up and are always trying your hardest just like last year when you were new to the team. (:
Catharine, you fell soo little this year! But when you did fall, it was to get the ball. You were great this season!
Serina, your an amazing and my favorite point guard! I love it when you warn us or tell us to watch out for someone out there on the court. TEAMWORK (: thanks for being an awesome point guard!
Marissa, you = amazing. I love how you weren't afraid of driving in or getting hurt. You're strong and you played so much even when you were sick. You never gave up, thank you for always having faith in the team(:
We all improved thanks to our three great coaches!
Bryan, you yell a lot, but thank you for your honesty. It was interesting and fun having you as our coach this year(: Thanks for never giving up on us!
Tiff, you never gave up on us and have always told us to play our hardest. Thanks for being our coach again! (:
James, thank you for being our coach again and all your encouraging words; it means a lot to us.(: Thank you for always being there for us!
This season was simply AMAZING. I loved every moment of it. Thank you guys for sharing this wonderful experience with me. (": I LOVE ALL OF YOU GUYS TO DEATH!!!!!! <3
Friday, May 13, 2011
8th grade girls ousted from playoffs
Friday the 13th proved to be unlucky for the 8th grade girls as they were eliminated from the playoffs tonight in a 27-20 loss.
This was a tight game throughout and even up to the final seconds of the game, before a few meaningless baskets stretched out the final point differential.
Gavy had an inspiring performance, and went out with a bang, coming off the bench to score 6 points, which sparked momentum from a team that looked timid and tentative.
There were several momentum swings in the game that went the way of the 8th grade girls, but they were unable to carry the momentum for a long period of time.
They trailed by only four at halftime, and took the lead late in the third, before giving up some baskets heading into the fourth.
A Marissa jumper midway through the final quarter put the girls back up 17-16, but that was the last time they held the lead.
Once again, it was the turnovers and missed lay-ups that caused their demise.
Breaking the press was also an issue as many of the passes were sloppy and also a product of girls not being able to get open for a clean pass.
Defensively, they didn't generate the turnovers they needed to and the girls were out-rebounded by the other team's center which was at least a head taller than any of the 8th grade girls.
Despite their season coming to an unexpected end, this was a team that had girls that were from four different schools playing as one. It was a make shift team put together because there weren't enough girls in the current 8th grade class that wanted to play, and to have less than a few months of experience playing together is not an ingredient to success.
Precious and Gavy, in their first year of organized basketball, were great additions to the team, and played as hard as anyone could've hoped for. Both were solid contributors to the team.
In their four years of basketball, this team made the playoffs their final three years, and had two first place championships, back to back winners in 6th and 7th grade, not too shabby of an accomplishment.
In her final game in a St. Mary's uniform, Marissa scored 13 points.
This was a tight game throughout and even up to the final seconds of the game, before a few meaningless baskets stretched out the final point differential.
Gavy had an inspiring performance, and went out with a bang, coming off the bench to score 6 points, which sparked momentum from a team that looked timid and tentative.
There were several momentum swings in the game that went the way of the 8th grade girls, but they were unable to carry the momentum for a long period of time.
They trailed by only four at halftime, and took the lead late in the third, before giving up some baskets heading into the fourth.
A Marissa jumper midway through the final quarter put the girls back up 17-16, but that was the last time they held the lead.
Once again, it was the turnovers and missed lay-ups that caused their demise.
Breaking the press was also an issue as many of the passes were sloppy and also a product of girls not being able to get open for a clean pass.
Defensively, they didn't generate the turnovers they needed to and the girls were out-rebounded by the other team's center which was at least a head taller than any of the 8th grade girls.
Despite their season coming to an unexpected end, this was a team that had girls that were from four different schools playing as one. It was a make shift team put together because there weren't enough girls in the current 8th grade class that wanted to play, and to have less than a few months of experience playing together is not an ingredient to success.
Precious and Gavy, in their first year of organized basketball, were great additions to the team, and played as hard as anyone could've hoped for. Both were solid contributors to the team.
In their four years of basketball, this team made the playoffs their final three years, and had two first place championships, back to back winners in 6th and 7th grade, not too shabby of an accomplishment.
In her final game in a St. Mary's uniform, Marissa scored 13 points.
What a Game 7
What an incredible game last night, here is how it ended. And don't forget to go to the 8th grade girls playoff game TONIGHT, 6 p.m. @ Mission Dolores.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Game 7 tomorrow night, let's hope history isn't made
Come tomorrow night, the Sharks may add to the video vault, if they cannot beat the Detroit Red Wings in Game 7.
The Sharks took a commanding 3-0 series lead last week, and looked like they were going to move on to the next round.
One week later, they'll be fighting for their playoff lives.
They've lost three straight games, the last coming yesterday, a 3-1 loss in a game they led 1-0.
In Game 5 Sunday, they were leading 3-1 and lost 4-3, as the series is now evened at three games a piece.
If you aren't a hockey fan, tomorrow night would be a good time to start becoming one, as game 7s are the best there is to offer. Winner takes all, and the loser is thanked for participating and can go home and mull about the lost opportunities the entire summer.
Historically, only three teams have ever come back from a 3-0 deficit to win the series, with the most recent coming last year when the Philadelphia Flyers did it to the Boston Bruins.
A Sharks loss would put them on a list that nobody wants to be apart of.
Plus, the future layout of the blog will also be determined by the outcome of tomorrow night's game. And if that wasn't enough, the playoff beard will either be extended and continue to grow, or come to another abrupt end.
Regardless, it'll be an exciting night of puck that you don't want to miss out on, because history WILL NOT be made.
Game time: 6 p.m.
TV: CSN-CA (Ch. 41 on Comcast, Ch. 696 on Direct TV)
Radio: 102.1 FM
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Sunday, May 8, 2011
8th Grade Girls Playoff Game Friday Night
The 8th grade girls will try to make it three championship games in a row, and their quest will begin Friday night at 6 p.m.
The game will be at Mission Dolores against St. Brigid. In their meeting during the regular season, the 8th grade girls won 26-21.
The game will be at Mission Dolores against St. Brigid. In their meeting during the regular season, the 8th grade girls won 26-21.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Shoot-a-thon Tomorrow
The Shoot-a-thon will take place tomorrow at NDV. Come any time between 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Following the shoot-a-thon will be the Young Stars Game at 2:30 p.m. and then the school wide game of knockout.
See you tomorrow.
Following the shoot-a-thon will be the Young Stars Game at 2:30 p.m. and then the school wide game of knockout.
See you tomorrow.
Saturday Recap: Grand slam, 8th grade girls clinch and 5th grade ends on a winning note
5th Grade hangs on to win in finale
The drive back from Half Moon Bay was sure to be a lot quicker for the 5th grade girls, as they hung on for dear life, and won their final game of the season 12-11.
Fiona had a putback midway through the fourth quarter to give the girls a 12-10 lead. But a foul was called on them with only one second left in the game, sending the other team to the free throw line with a chance to tie.
The girl's first shot banked in nicely, cutting the lead to one. Luckily her second shot hit straight off the backboard for a rim violation. The ball was then inbounded to Fiona, ending the game.
In just their first season as a team, the girls put together a (3-5) record.
They have a good foundation to build on, winning three games in their rookie campaign.
Every girl has shown dramatic improvement throughout the course of the year, and it showed in today's game.
Victoria had a career high 4 points, burying her first two shots of the game.
Edwena was aggressive on defense, making steals and converting on her lay-ups. She also had 4 points.
In one of the nicest plays of the game, Fiona led a fast break, and nicely placed a bounce pass to Jamie, who streaked easily to the basket for a lay-up. It was textbook perfect on how to run a fast break and one of the nicest plays of the entire girls basketball season.
Once again, they were out-rebounded, which is almost expected, due to the small size of this team. However, they grabbed enough boards at the opportune moments to seize the victory.
Shania, in her first year, was great defensively and swatted away numerous shots.
Kelly's quickness on defense also made it difficult for the other team to get any momentum going.
The game was tight from start to finish as neither team lead by more than two points. The game was tied 6-6 at halftime.
Forfeit puts 8th grade girls in the playoffs
With only four girls present at game time, the other team had to forfeit against the 8th grade, which strangely clinched a playoff spot for the girls.
At (5-3), they will reach the post-season for the third straight year. Strangely, two of the team's losses came against teams that did not reach the playoffs.
Their opponent has yet to be determined.
Mark's grand slam not enough
Errors will kill you, and the E word once again did in the 8th grade baseball team.
They spotted the other team a 4-0 lead after two innings, because of some poor play in the field. In their sixth game of the year, this team needs to be better than that, and today, they weren't.
Jeremy started for the first time this season and threw three solid innings, giving up only five runs, none of them earned.
David made a nice play in the third inning running down a foul pop, but Mark was late to cover second to double off a runner that had been going on the pitch. By the time the ball got to second, Mark wasn't ready for the throw and it skipped into center field. That error prolonged the inning and led to the fifth run.
Calson had a rough day behind the plate, as he had trouble gripping onto the third strikes. When the ball comes loose of a third strike, the runner is still alive, and Calson made a few errant throws, which dragged on some of the innings.
This is still new for Calson as not only is it his first year playing baseball, but catching is something Calson was thrown into because the team's normal catcher is no longer on the team. Catching is not an easy position and it takes a lot more than two games to get used to being behind the dish.
At the plate, Calson and Mark did make up for their mistakes in the field, with Calson collecting two base hits in his first two at-bats. Those were the first two hits in Calson's career.
Mark blasted a ball to right field late in the game and had a grand slam. His home run was the third at St. Mary's this season, and the first grand slam in St. Mary's modern baseball history.
Errors doom 5th/6th grade as well
The 5th/6th graders could not cleanly field, and that led to an 8 run third inning, which eventually dropped them 14-4.
Dropped third strikes, errors on routine grounders and misplays in the outfield all contributed to a game that was somewhat winnable.
A lot of the players on the team are still afraid of the ball, and that's something that needs to be overcome, if the players want to make progress.
Even when the ball is slowly dribbled to them, the players are more often than not, not centered with the ball and try to glove it with one hand, because they are afraid of the baseball.
It's a fear everyone has, but by the sixth game of the season, we should be seeing less and less of that.
The bad defense wasted another fine pitching performance by Justin, who started for the sixth consecutive game. Brandon came in relief and struck out three of the four batters he faced, but all of the batters reached because of a dropped third strike, and the inability to make a throw to first base.
4th, 6th/7th grade close out seasons
The 4th grade girls and the 6th/7th grade girls both loss in their finales. Miracle scored for the 4th grade while Pamela and Maria for the 6th/7th graders.
Both teams end their regular seasons with a (2-6) record.
The drive back from Half Moon Bay was sure to be a lot quicker for the 5th grade girls, as they hung on for dear life, and won their final game of the season 12-11.
Fiona had a putback midway through the fourth quarter to give the girls a 12-10 lead. But a foul was called on them with only one second left in the game, sending the other team to the free throw line with a chance to tie.
The girl's first shot banked in nicely, cutting the lead to one. Luckily her second shot hit straight off the backboard for a rim violation. The ball was then inbounded to Fiona, ending the game.
In just their first season as a team, the girls put together a (3-5) record.
They have a good foundation to build on, winning three games in their rookie campaign.
Every girl has shown dramatic improvement throughout the course of the year, and it showed in today's game.
Victoria had a career high 4 points, burying her first two shots of the game.
Edwena was aggressive on defense, making steals and converting on her lay-ups. She also had 4 points.
In one of the nicest plays of the game, Fiona led a fast break, and nicely placed a bounce pass to Jamie, who streaked easily to the basket for a lay-up. It was textbook perfect on how to run a fast break and one of the nicest plays of the entire girls basketball season.
Once again, they were out-rebounded, which is almost expected, due to the small size of this team. However, they grabbed enough boards at the opportune moments to seize the victory.
Shania, in her first year, was great defensively and swatted away numerous shots.
Kelly's quickness on defense also made it difficult for the other team to get any momentum going.
The game was tight from start to finish as neither team lead by more than two points. The game was tied 6-6 at halftime.
Forfeit puts 8th grade girls in the playoffs
With only four girls present at game time, the other team had to forfeit against the 8th grade, which strangely clinched a playoff spot for the girls.
At (5-3), they will reach the post-season for the third straight year. Strangely, two of the team's losses came against teams that did not reach the playoffs.
Their opponent has yet to be determined.
Mark's grand slam not enough
Errors will kill you, and the E word once again did in the 8th grade baseball team.
They spotted the other team a 4-0 lead after two innings, because of some poor play in the field. In their sixth game of the year, this team needs to be better than that, and today, they weren't.
Jeremy started for the first time this season and threw three solid innings, giving up only five runs, none of them earned.
David made a nice play in the third inning running down a foul pop, but Mark was late to cover second to double off a runner that had been going on the pitch. By the time the ball got to second, Mark wasn't ready for the throw and it skipped into center field. That error prolonged the inning and led to the fifth run.
Calson had a rough day behind the plate, as he had trouble gripping onto the third strikes. When the ball comes loose of a third strike, the runner is still alive, and Calson made a few errant throws, which dragged on some of the innings.
This is still new for Calson as not only is it his first year playing baseball, but catching is something Calson was thrown into because the team's normal catcher is no longer on the team. Catching is not an easy position and it takes a lot more than two games to get used to being behind the dish.
At the plate, Calson and Mark did make up for their mistakes in the field, with Calson collecting two base hits in his first two at-bats. Those were the first two hits in Calson's career.
Mark blasted a ball to right field late in the game and had a grand slam. His home run was the third at St. Mary's this season, and the first grand slam in St. Mary's modern baseball history.
Errors doom 5th/6th grade as well
The 5th/6th graders could not cleanly field, and that led to an 8 run third inning, which eventually dropped them 14-4.
Dropped third strikes, errors on routine grounders and misplays in the outfield all contributed to a game that was somewhat winnable.
A lot of the players on the team are still afraid of the ball, and that's something that needs to be overcome, if the players want to make progress.
Even when the ball is slowly dribbled to them, the players are more often than not, not centered with the ball and try to glove it with one hand, because they are afraid of the baseball.
It's a fear everyone has, but by the sixth game of the season, we should be seeing less and less of that.
The bad defense wasted another fine pitching performance by Justin, who started for the sixth consecutive game. Brandon came in relief and struck out three of the four batters he faced, but all of the batters reached because of a dropped third strike, and the inability to make a throw to first base.
4th, 6th/7th grade close out seasons
The 4th grade girls and the 6th/7th grade girls both loss in their finales. Miracle scored for the 4th grade while Pamela and Maria for the 6th/7th graders.
Both teams end their regular seasons with a (2-6) record.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Weekend Preview
This is the final weekend for the girls basketball regular season, with all four teams in action tomorrow. The 8th grade is still alive in the playoff chase and could force at worse a tie-breaker with a win. With a loss, it will be likely their season is over.
The two baseball teams should be playing tomorrow, with the 8th grade game scheduled at 11:30 a.m. as of right now and the 5th/6th graders later on in the day at 2 p.m.
And don't forget the shoot-a-thon Sunday. You can show up any time between 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Don't forget to go out and get sponsors!
The Young Stars Girls Game will be at 2:30 p.m. featuring all the girls from 3rd, 4th and 5th grade.
The school-wide game of knockout will start at 3:30 p.m.
The two baseball teams should be playing tomorrow, with the 8th grade game scheduled at 11:30 a.m. as of right now and the 5th/6th graders later on in the day at 2 p.m.
And don't forget the shoot-a-thon Sunday. You can show up any time between 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Don't forget to go out and get sponsors!
The Young Stars Girls Game will be at 2:30 p.m. featuring all the girls from 3rd, 4th and 5th grade.
The school-wide game of knockout will start at 3:30 p.m.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Stephen Curry wins award for best sportsmanship
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| Anyone who is willing to take a picture with Freddy, is deserving of an award. |
Source: Associated Press
NEW YORK -- Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors has won the Joe Dumars Trophy, presented to the NBA player who best exemplifies sportsmanship.
Curry received 88 of a possible 347 first-place votes from fellow players. Luol Deng of the Chicago Bulls was second with 84 votes and Portland's LaMarcus Aldridge was third with 56.
The NBA announced Thursday it will make a $10,000 donation on behalf of Curry to Habitat For Humanity East Bay, which uses volunteers to build affordable homes for families.
Each team nominated one player for the award, and a panel of former players selected six divisional winners. The other nominees were Charlotte's D.J. Augustin, New Jersey's Deron Williams and San Antonio's George Hill.
The NBA will donate $5,000 on behalf of each player to a charity of their choice.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
3-0 Sharks lead the series, win in OT again, 4-3
Devin Setoguchi is the man of the hour, as Setoguchi scored 3 goals in route to a hat trick, including the game winner in overtime, to give the Sharks a 4-3 win, and a commanding 3-0 series lead in the best of seven series.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
5th/6th graders put up 7, but still not enough
The 5th/6th grade ran into some bad luck literally in their latest game this afternoon.
They were able to pile up 7 runs, but their defense once again was not solid enough for it to hold for a victory, as they lost 14-7.
Offensive, they were able to put the bat on the ball, better than any game this season and even jumped out to an early 4-1 lead, with two of the runs courtesy of Isabella and Brandon, who both had RBI hits in the first inning.
Throughout the game, the team had some really nice swings, but unfortunately they were hit right at the other team. On three occasions, their liners and pop-ups resulted in double plays.
Running the bases is not as easy as it seems, as the team still is having trouble recognizing when they need to tag up and when they are supposed to run. The three double plays ended three separate innings.
Justin started and went four innings in another strong start, while Brandon came in to pitch the 5th.
The 5th/6th graders have three games left in the season.
They were able to pile up 7 runs, but their defense once again was not solid enough for it to hold for a victory, as they lost 14-7.
Offensive, they were able to put the bat on the ball, better than any game this season and even jumped out to an early 4-1 lead, with two of the runs courtesy of Isabella and Brandon, who both had RBI hits in the first inning.
Throughout the game, the team had some really nice swings, but unfortunately they were hit right at the other team. On three occasions, their liners and pop-ups resulted in double plays.
Running the bases is not as easy as it seems, as the team still is having trouble recognizing when they need to tag up and when they are supposed to run. The three double plays ended three separate innings.
Justin started and went four innings in another strong start, while Brandon came in to pitch the 5th.
The 5th/6th graders have three games left in the season.
Monday, May 2, 2011
It's a New Day
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| The Chinese school principal (left), Fr. Daniel (center) and others about to cut the ribbon at the new school this morning. |
Students, faculty and parents gathered this morning at Old St. Mary's before parading in the streets of Chinatown to the corner of Jackson and Kearny where the St. Mary's community will call home for years to come.
Led by the drum corps, who did a fantastic job -- class by class, followed by parents, completed the transition as everybody gathered at 838 Kearny where the ribbon was cut, officially signifying a new beginning for St. Mary's.
It was a day that many thought would never come to fruition. And yet, there we were, on the morning of May 2nd, 2011, standing in the courtyard, with a few hundred of our closest friends, smiling and rejoicing, that the day that we've coveted and anticipated for 15 years, had finally come.
Happy Birthday Marissa
And there is more...in case you didn't watch it or want to watch it again, Marissa did a 1-on-1 interview for Epic Video a few weeks back. Enjoy it if you haven't already.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Opening Day Tomorrow
Monday morning is Opening Day for the New St. Mary's school down at the corner of Jackson and Kearny.
Sorry for the lateness of the post but here is a quick preview of events for the big day tomorrow.
9 a.m. - the students will be led by the drum corps from Old St. Mary's to Jackson and Kearny.
9:20 a.m. - Students arrive
9:30 a.m. - Opening Remarks
9:35 a.m. - Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony at the Front Gate
9:40 a.m. - Enter the school
The bulk of the ceremony will take place inside of the school. The festivities will last approximately for an hour.
Looking forward to seeing everyone tomorrow for a historic day.
Sorry for the lateness of the post but here is a quick preview of events for the big day tomorrow.
9 a.m. - the students will be led by the drum corps from Old St. Mary's to Jackson and Kearny.
9:20 a.m. - Students arrive
9:30 a.m. - Opening Remarks
9:35 a.m. - Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony at the Front Gate
9:40 a.m. - Enter the school
The bulk of the ceremony will take place inside of the school. The festivities will last approximately for an hour.
Looking forward to seeing everyone tomorrow for a historic day.
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