Author Archives: ianbethune

UConn’s Carlos Alvarez Drafted No. 2 in MLS SuperDraft by Chivas USA

Here's the release from UConn about UConn Huskies men's soccer player Carlos Alvarez being drafted No. 2 overall by Chivas USA in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft.

STORRS, Conn. – University of Connecticut senior Carlos Alvarez was selected No. 2 overall by Chivas USA in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft on Thursday afternoon in Indianapolis, Ind. Alvarez is UConn's 26th overall selection in the MLS Draft and ninth first-round selection.

UConn Huskies Men's Soccer"Carlos is a terrific young man, an incredible player that deserves everything he's earning right now," said UConn Head Coach Ray Reid. "He had opportunities to leave school early and knew the best way for him to succeed at the professional level was to continue to work on his game in college. Carlos stayed at UConn four years and now he gets to live his dream of playing professional soccer with the exact club he's wanted all along and he's also earned a great contract in the process."

"I'm so proud of Carlos for staying at UConn all four years and doing everything that a student-athlete can do. To say we'll miss him at UConn is an understatement."

Alvarez, a native of Los Angeles, Calif., stated early in the draft process that he wanted to play for Chivas USA. Alvarez's father played professionally for Chivas Guadalajara in Mexico. Chivas USA is based out of Carson, Calif., a suburb of Los Angeles.

"I had an unbelievable career in Storrs. The coaching staff was incredible. I learned so much from them," said Alvarez. "Honestly, that's the best coaching staff I've ever been with since I started playing soccer. I owe everything to them – the strength and conditioning coach too (Chris West). I came in weighing 135, I left weighing 172. That tells you a lot about the program. The way they work. In the spring we do double sessions and wake up at 5:45 to train. A lot of schools say they train hard, but I don't think they trained like we did at UConn. That's why it's such a successful program."

Alvarez was a two-time NSCAA Second Team All-American and the 2012 BIG EAST Midfielder of the Year. Alvarez led UConn to the 2009 and 2012 BIG EAST Regular Season Championship and finished his career third all-time at Connecticut with 42 assists. His 82 points placed him No. 14 all-time. As a senior, Alvarez notched seven goals and nine assists for 23 points. A two-time All-BIG EAST First Team selection, Alvarez was named 2009 BIG EAST Rookie of the Year.

UConn had two first round selections in 2012 with Andrew Jean-Baptiste drafted No. 8 overall by the Portland Timbers and Tony Cascio chosen No. 14 by the Colorado Rapids. Nickardo Blake was selected No. 14 in first round of the supplemental draft by Toronto FC.

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Will Middlebrooks to Welcome Children to “Red Sox Kid Nation Winterfest”

Here's a press release from the Boston Red Sox about "Red Sox Kid Nation Winterfest":

BOSTON, MA – Third Baseman Will Middlebrooks will welcome children to a “Red Sox Kid Nation Winterfest” on Saturday, January 26, at Fenway Park.  The event, which takes place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m, is free and open to fans of all ages.

Boston Red SoxMiddlebrooks is scheduled to take part in the festivities, which include a youth video game competition featuring Sony’s “MLB 12: The Show.”  Sony donated 40 games and 40 consoles for the event.

Red Sox 2013 tickets, which go on sale at redsox.com and via telephone (888-REDSOX6) at 10 a.m., will also be available at the Fenway Park Box Office.

Fans of all ages will be welcome to step up to the microphone and showcase their vocal talents as the club seeks a new Public Address Announcer and performers of the National Anthem at Fenway Park.  Children will also be able to hit baseballs in the actual Fenway Park Batting Cages.

The concourse inside Gate D, which serves as the main entrance, will offer activities for children.  Wally the Green Monster will take photographs and sign autographs, and his Wally’s World neighborhood will include a booth to test the speed of your pitch, carnival games, a bounce house, a beanbag toss, face painters, balloon artists, a magician, a caricature artist, and trackless train rides.

Fans will be able to play baseball video games on Sony’s “MLB 12: The Show,” and those who choose to register for a competition will be eligible for special prizes.  Tournament winners and runners-up will receive Kid Nation memberships and tickets to a Red Sox home game this season.  More details on registration will be announced in the coming days.

Hood has been the presenting sponsor of Red Sox Kid Nation since its inception in 2005.

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Four Members of Red Sox on 2013 WBC Rosters

On Thursday came the announcement of the 2013 World Baseball Classic (WBC) provisional rosters and we find four members of the Boston Red Sox represented.

2013 World Baseball ClassicNew OF Shane Victorino will represent the United States while P Alfredo Aceves will represent his home country of Mexico.

The other two players are part of the Red Sox minor league system.

SS Xander Bogaerts will play for the Netherlands and P Jose De La Torre will play for Puerto Rico.

The WBC takes place from March 2, 2013 to March 19, 2013 in Fukuoka, Japan, Taichung, Tawain, Puerto Rico, and Phoenix, AZ (pool play). The second round will take place in Tokyo, Japan and Miami, FL while the finals will be held in San Francisco, CA at AT&T Park.

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Nike Basketball: #COUNTONKOBE

Some things in this world are certainties. The sun will rise. Rain will fall. And Kobe Bryant will dominate on the basketball court.

That’s the premise behind “Count on Kobe,” Nike Basketball’s new film debuting this month. The film features visually arresting images juxtaposed with footage of Bryant to demonstrate the unparalleled drive, skill and commitment of one of the hardest-working and most-dedicated players of all time.

"I start every day with the desire to be the best, and I'm committed to doing what it takes to win and to being fearless on the court," Bryant said. "I want to be the player my teammates and fans can count on day in and day out."

The images from the film highlight not only Bryant’s skill on the court but the many aspects of his world of basketball – from his training to his game-day preparation to his footwear. We see images of his practice regimen, the energy-giving food he eats before a game, and the KOBE 8 SYSTEM – his lightest and lowest performance shoe to date. 

The underlying message is this: After 17 years in the league, Bryant’s drive to dominate and constantly improve his game is part of the world’s natural order. This is the way it was. This is the way it is. This is the way it will be. Count on Kobe.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=shx0iu-TC6w?rel=0

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Nike Mercurial Vapor IX

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Fireberry (top), Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Sunset (bottom)

In today’s highly technical and fast game, straight line speed and ability to simply pass a player is only part of the player's skill set. Combining performance innovation and a heritage of lightweight boots for fast players, the Nike Mercurial Vapor IX takes this legacy to the next level for players who rely on tight cuts and turns combined with bursts of explosive speed to beat the opposition. 

The Mercurial Vapor IX is engineered with a completely new upper to deliver a level of support and touch for players to deliver a deadly combination of speed and skill when it matters most. Nike’s new Speed Control texture on the upper gives players the confidence to perform at speed with enhanced friction that combines with a snug and responsive fit — a hallmark of Mercurial boots. The Speed Control texture wraps around the foot, giving the boot friction when necessary without compromising on the soft touch the player requires. The upper also locks down the foot and prevents unnecessary movement within the boot, while a minimal and soft heel area maximizes comfort and therefore the performance of those wearing them.

Nike’s innovative All Conditions Control (ACC) technology further aids performance; the special treatment now used on all Nike boots ensures a consistent touch whether playing in wet or dry weather.

Traction is everything for the player who relies on explosive speed and who wears the Mercurial Vapor IX. Twin studs at the back allow for a quick release from the turf, and the asymmetric design of the stud configuration delivers an explosive start. Highly responsive blades also allow for game-altering changes in direction at speed.

The Mercurial Vapor IX features a unique, lightweight plate, incorporating two different pieces of glass fiber that increase flexibility and responsiveness, providing energy return in the heat of the game.

Since its original launch over 10 years ago, the Mercurial has always stood out. Bold and exciting, the boot’s color and design has always ensured its players are noticed. The new Vapor IX is no different. Featured in striking fireberry and sunset colorways, the boot makes a bold statement on pitch. Both colorways will be available for pre-order on January 18 and on January 31 at Nike.com and retailers worldwide.

To see more images of the boots, please click on the continue reading button below if you're on the home page.

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Fireberry

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Fireberry

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Fireberry

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Fireberry

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Fireberry

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Fireberry

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Fireberry

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Fireberry

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Fireberry

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Fireberry

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Fireberry

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Fireberry

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Fireberry

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Fireberry

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Sunset

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Sunset

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Sunset

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Sunset

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Sunset

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Sunset

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Sunset

Nike Mercurial Vapor IX Sunset

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photo credits: nike, inc.

Chad Kolarik to Represent Whale in 2013 Dunkin’ Donuts AHL All-Star Classic

HARTFORD, January 17, 2013:  The American Hockey League today named Connecticut Whale right-wing Chad Kolarik to the Eastern Conference squad for the upcoming 2013 Dunkin’ Donuts AHL All-Star Classic in Providence, RI.

Dunkin’ Donuts AHL All-Star ClassicAfter losing the entirety of last season to injury, Kolarik, a fifth-year pro out of the University of Michigan, leads the 2012-13 Whale in goals, with 15, and ranks second on the club in points with 30, and is a +2 in 37 games.  The 26-year-old Kolarik also leads the Whale team in shots on goal with 121.

Kolarik, who was acquired by the New York Rangers organization November 11, 2010 from the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for Dane Byers, has logged 238 games of AHL action in his career, with the San Antonio Rampage, Syracuse Crunch, Springfield Falcons and the Whale, scoring 82 goals and adding 89 assists for 171 points, while serving 194 minutes in penalties.  The Abington, PA native has also suited up for six NHL career NHL games, four with the Rangers and two with the Blue Jackets, registering one assist and two PIM.

Beginning Friday and until January 24, fans will have the opportunity to vote for the starting lineups for the 2013 AHL All-Star Game by visiting facebook.com/theahl and completing the official CCM AHL All-Star Fan Ballot. Voters will also be entered to win prizes of a team-signed 2013 AHL All-Star stick (two) and team-signed 2013 AHL All-Star commemorative programs (10).

The 2013 Dunkin’ Donuts AHL All-Star Classic will take place January 27-28 in Providence.  Tickets are on sale now by calling the Providence Bruins at (401) 273-5000 or visiting www.providencebruins.com. All-Star 2-Packs are $55 and $75 and include admission to both the 2013 Pepsi AHL All-Star Skills Competition at 7 p.m. on Sunday, January 27, and the 2013 AHL All-Star Game at 7 p.m. on Monday, January 28. All-Star 4-Packs are $75 and $100 and include admission to the Skills Competition and the All-Star Game, as well as the Post-Skills Party (January 27, 9:30 p.m.) at the Rhode Island Convention Center and the 2013 AHL Hall of Fame Induction & Awards Ceremony (January 28, 11 a.m.) at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium.

The Whale are back in action tomorrow night, Friday, January 18, traveling to Springfield to meet the Falcons in a 7:00 PM game.  All of the action of that contest can be heard live on “Beethoven Radio” AM 1290.  Fans can also listen on-line at www.ctwhale.com, and video streaming is available at www.ahllive.com.  The next home game for the Whale is this Wednesday, January 23, a 7:00 battle with the Adirondack Phantoms.

Whale tickets start as low as $10 each ($12 each when tickets are purchased on the day of the game), at the Public Power Ticket Office at the XL Center, through TicketMaster Charge-by-Phone at 1-800-745-3000 and on-line at www.ticketmaster.com.

Season tickets for the Whale’s 2012-13 AHL season are also available. For information on season seats, and all of the Whale’s many ticketing options, visit www.ctwhale.com, or call the CT Whale ticket office at (860) 548-2000 to talk with an account executive today.

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Red Sox, Salty Avoid Arbitration

One down, eight to go for Boston Red Sox GM Ben Cherington as the team and Jarrod Saltalamacchia have avoided salary arbitration by agreeing to a one-year, $4.5 million deal.

Here's the release from the Red Sox:

BOSTON, MA—The Boston Red Sox today agreed to terms with catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia on a one-year, non-guaranteed contract for the 2013 season, thus avoiding salary arbitration.  Terms were not disclosed.  The announcement was made by Executive Vice President/General Manager Ben Cherington.
Saltalamacchia, 27, hit .222 with 25 home runs and 59 RBI in 2012.  He led the Red Sox in home runs, the first catcher to do so since Carlton Fisk, who in 1973 and 1977 hit 26, the club record for a catcher.

Boston Red SoxThe switch-hitter set career highs in home runs, RBI, games (121), runs (55), and walks (38).  Nearly half (43) of his hits (90) went for extra bases.  He ranked third among major league catchers in home runs and finished with the fourth-best slugging percentage (.454) among American League catchers (minimum 375 PA).  As a catcher, his 104 games and 852 innings ranked fifth in the league, and his 95 starts tied for fifth.  His .991 fielding percentage ranked sixth.

Acquired by Boston from Texas for three minor leaguers (and cash considerations) on July 31, 2010, the native of West Palm Beach, FL, has hit 41 homers over the past two seasons, tied for the fourth-most among AL catchers.  Saltalamacchia, who hit 16 home runs in 2011,  is the fourth Red Sox catcher to hit at least 16 homers in back-to-back seasons, joining Carlton Fisk (1972-73, 1976-78), Rich Gedman (1984-86) and Jason Varitek (2003-05).

Active in the community again in 2012, he was among team leaders with 26 appearances, served as co-captain of the Jimmy Fund, and earned the BoSox Club’s “Man of the Year Award” for community service.

Originally a supplemental first-round selection by Atlanta in the June 2003 draft, Saltalamacchia owns a .239 average with 81 doubles, 5 triples, 64 home runs and 210 RBI in 474 career games over six seasons with the Braves (2007), Rangers (2007-10) and Red Sox (2010-12).

The Red Sox have eight arbitration-eligible players remaining: right-handers Alfredo Aceves, Andrew Bailey, Daniel Bard, and Joel Hanrahan, left-handers Craig Breslow, Andrew Miller and Franklin Morales, and outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury.

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Rangers Recall Brandon Segal From Whale

NEW YORK, January 17, 2013 – New York Rangers President and General Manager Glen Sather announced today that the club has recalled forward Brandon Segal from the Connecticut Whale of the American Hockey League (AHL).

CT WhaleSegal, 29, has registered nine goals and seven assists for 16 points, along with 60 penalty minutes in 38 games this season. He is tied for third on the team in goals and shorthanded goals (one), ranks fourth in penalty minutes and third in shots on goal (88). Segal notched a shorthanded goal and posted a plus-three rating in a 6-1 win yesterday at Portland. He posted a season-high, four-game point streak from October 19 at Norfolk to October 26 against Hershey, registering four goals and two assists over the span.

A veteran of four NHL seasons, Segal has skated in 102 career NHL games with the Tampa Bay Lightning, Los Angeles Kings and Dallas Stars, registering 11 goals and 11 assists for 22 points, along with 83 penalty minutes. Segal established NHL career-highs in 2009-10 with six goals, six assists and 12 points while splitting time between Los Angeles and Dallas. He made his NHL debut with Tampa Bay on March 3, 2009, against Pittsburgh, and recorded his first career NHL point with an assist on December 31, 2009, at Minnesota as a member of the Kings.

The Richmond, British Columbia native was signed by the Rangers as an unrestricted free agent on July 11, 2012. He was originally selected by the Nashville Predators as a fourth round choice, 102nd overall, in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft.

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Carmelo Anthony Enjoys High Tea with Dave White in London

Carmelo Anthony enjoying high tea

Jordan Brand athlete Carmelo Anthony continued his experience in London today by taking in a British tradition, high tea. Anthony, who is visiting London to play an NBA regular season game on Thursday, met with acclaimed British street and sneaker artist Dave White at The Savory in London. 

The two met not only to take in The Savory's fine tea selection, but also to discuss their latest project together, a special edition version of the Jordan MELO M9. White, who has collaborated several times with the Jordan Brand, sat down with the five-time NBA All-Star to collaborate on a shoe design that will pay tribute to Anthony's record 37-points against Nigeria for Team USA this summer. 

Their limited edition product collaboration will only be available in London upon completion. Today's meeting, the first between the mutual admirers, was a planning session to lay the foundation for their co-design.

The Savory, known as one of London's most famous teahouses, provided an amazing and true British experience for the NBA superstar. Anthony and White allowed Jordan Brand cameras along for the ride today and the video of their meeting can be found below.

Check back with www.nikeinc.com/jordan-brand for the final product design and release information.

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photo credit:  nike, inc.