Sports In The Bay!

Andre Ward def. Sakio Bika

2010-11-30T07:33:00.000-08:00

photos by Willie Eashman

Sports In The Bay

by

Felicia and Eddrick

Check out this photo essay of Andre Ward defending his WBA Middle Weight Title against challenger Sakio Bika last Saturday niight. Ward won the fight in a unanimous decision in front of his hometown fans in Oakland.

Shout Out

2010-11-29T01:04:00.000-08:00

Former Oakland Raiders lineman and current Detroit Lion Ike Ekejiuba gives a shout-out to

Sports In the Bay!

Former Raiders lineman and current Detroit Lion Ike Ekijuka tells everyone what their watching

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME!

2010-11-29T00:36:00.000-08:00

Dolphins receiver returns home to play against his childhood team

Photo by Willie Eashman

Sports in the Bay!

Being of a smaller stature is something Davone Bess has heard all of his life so it is safe to say the 5"10 - 190lb Miami Dolphins wide receiver has made it his plight to prove people wrong.

Coming home to play in Oakland against the team that passed him over on draft day three years ago made the taste of a 33-17 victory that much sweeter.

"I was really impressed with what Davone did," said Dolphins head coach Tony Sparano of his speeder receiver who finished the game with 6 receptions for 111-yards.

A product of Skyline High School in Oakland Bess, 25, who grew up blocks from the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum shook his head in disgust when asked for the final ticket count of tickets he purchased for friends and family. As of Friday it was 55 however after the game, he admitted that the amount had grown significantly since then.

Bess is proud to be from the Bay Area and has made no secret of his love of the Silver and Black growing up. Tim Brown was and still is his idol and Sparano has even compared him to former Raiders wide receiver.

He even has a Golden State Warriors tattoo proudly displayed on his left bicep to remind him that even though he plays in the Sunshine State he is still from the Golden State.　

WARD AND BIKA PREPARE TO GO POUND FOR POUND

2010-11-24T19:52:00.000-08:00

Photo courtesy of Rich Hundley/SHOWTIME

Sports In the Bay / Info courtesy of Steve Pratt

World Boxing Association (WBA) super middleweight champion Andre “S.O.G.” Ward and world contender Sakio “The Scorpion” Bika met with local Bay Area media members on Wednesday to discuss their anticipated world title fight this Saturday at ORACLE Arena in Oakland, California.

It will be the second consecutive defense of his world title for the local fighter Ward (22-0, 13 KOs), who will have his hands full against Bika (28-4-2, 19 KOs) of Sydney, Australia, via Douala, Cameroon on Saturday, Nov. 27, live on SHOWTIME (live at 9 p.m. ET/PT).

Both camps have been training hard for the past six-weeks and prior to their face-to-face meeting, the two talked about their anticipated bout in a teleconference earlier this week.

“I am happy Andre Ward has given us the opportunity. I am looking for the win. Training camp went very well and we will win this fight," said Bika, a native of Cameroon, fighting out of Australia.

The hometown favorite, Ward will be fighting his third fight in Oakland. November 21st marked a year since the last time he fought at ORACLE and although the Arena isn't yet sold-out it is anticipated Ward will still will give fans something to remember.

“Whether there are two or 100,000 fans in the stands makes no difference to me because I will still come in here to do my job,” said Ward.

In the first fight of the split-site doubleheader, “King” Arthur Abraham will meet Carl “The Cobra” Froch in the final Group Stage 3 bout of tournament for the vacant WBC super middleweight world title. The world title match will be televised on same-day-delay from the Hartwall Areena in Helsinki, Finland.

This World Championship night of boxing begins at 4 p.m. featuring undefeated Jr. middleweight and 2008 US Olympian Javier Molina (4-0, 4 KOs), Sacramento’s undefeated lightweight Stan Martyniouk (10-0, 1KO), Houston’s power-punching Cornelius White (15-0, 14 KOs), plus four other bouts with the main event featuring Oakland’s finest starting at approximately 7 p.m.

Tickets are priced at $150, $75 and $35 are on sale now at the Oracle Box Office or visit www.coliseum.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

WARRIORS OWNER JOE LACOB SAYS “THANK YOU” TO NBA’S BEST FANS

2010-11-14T12:13:00.000-08:00

New Owner Slashes Prices On All Remaining Tickets, Plus Concessions, For Monday Night’s Game

Sports in the Bay!

TICKETS...FOOD....AND DRINKS FOR HALF THE PRICE?

On behalf of his new ownership group, which officially took control of the Golden State Warriors last Friday, Joe Lacob is saying “Thank You” to the best fan base in the NBA by offering half-off on ALL remaining tickets to Monday night’s game versus the Detroit Pistons. In addition to the ticket slashes Lacob is also offering 50% off on ALL food and drinks purchased on Monday night at the arena concession stands.

Monday nights game will kick-off the first Warriors’ home game under the new ownership group, headed by Lacob and Peter Guber.

To take advantage of the 50% off ticket offer, fans must visit the team’s official website, warriors.com, to receive the special offer code - SOCIAL.

Fans of the Warriors Official Facebook Page were able to take advantage of this offer yesterday with an exclusive preview, and now the offer is being extended to the general public.

For more information on the Golden State Warriors, please visit www.warriors.com.

Bay Area's Own Andre Ward holds Press Conference for upcoming bout

2010-11-10T01:33:00.000-08:00

Photo credit: Laura De la Torre / Goossen Tutor Promotions

Sports in the Bay!

The atmosphere inside Ricky's Sports Theatre and Grill in San Leandro was buzzing with excitement Tuesday afternoon. Known as a hotbed for avid sports lovers, especially Oakland Raiders fans, it was also host for Andre "S.O.G." (Son of God) Wards press conference promoting his upcoming fight against Sakio Bika.
Ward, a native of Oakland and a 2004 Gold Olympian will have the home crowd behind him on Saturday, November 27th as he fights 12-rounds to defend his World Boxing Association Super Middleweight Championship against Sakio "The Scorpion" Bika of Australia.

At 22-0 record (13 KO's) the Wards career has been carefully crafted under the tutelage of his trainer Virgil Hunter who has trained him since the age of nine.

The two have fought hard to keep boxing in Oakland which was always been a dream for Ward who fought for the first time as a pro in his hometown in May 2009.

"It's always been sweet to fight at home," said Ward from the stage at Ricky's, "The experience is great."

Biko, 31, who is 28-4-2 with 19 knockouts is said to be the toughest opponent yet for the 26-year old Ward.

"Bika will come full steam ahead with wild punches. I am going to continue to do what I do and that is a little bit of everything. Just like when I fought (Allan) Green. We had a plan to fight on the inside but it ended up being a closed combat and I had to adjust. With Bika, depending on what he does I'll know how to adjust and what I need to do."

The bout will be televised on Showtime at 9pm ET/PT (delayed on the W. Coast) at the ORACLE Arena in Oakland.

Ellis suffers back injury in Warriors Win

2010-11-09T00:05:00.000-08:00

Warriors guard Monta Ellis suffered a lower back injury during the 4th quarter of tonight’s 109-102 victory over Toronto Monday night.

Ellis underwent x-rays on his lower back following the game and results will be available Tuesday morning. He will remain in Toronto as the team travels to New York to face the Knicks on Wednesday.

Tip-off is 4:40 PST.

Info courtesy of the Golden State Warriors

Raiders 23 - Chiefs 20

2010-11-08T05:38:00.000-08:00

Sports In The Bay!

Felicia and Eddrick recap the Raider's exciting win over the Kansas City Chiefs. Stay tuned for exclusive post game interviews later today...

Raiders prepared to break 7-year losing streak Sunday at home against Chiefs

2010-11-04T22:26:00.000-07:00

Second year RB Marcel Reece had a breakout game, scoring TD on a 30-yard pass play from Raiders QB Jason Campbell in the second quarter for 33-3 victory over the Seahawks.

Photo by Willie Eshman

OAKLAND ON A ROLL, HOPING FOR 3 IN A ROW SINCE 2002

The Oakland Raiders won their second game in a row over the Seattle Seahawks 33-3 this past Sunday. Despite injuries to key players on defense and offensive the Raiders have stepped up to the task, filling in the necessary gaps by beating their last two opponent by a margin of 92-17.

A key injury to Pro Bowl Cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha will be a factor for the Chiefs as they will try to abuse Asomugha's replacement. However, RB Darren McFadden has been an unstopped machine.

Oakland (4-4) hopes to tie with their divison rivals at the top of the AFC leader board. The Chiefs (5-2) are in jeopardy of losing their first divisional lost of the season in a rivaly that dates back to the 1960's. They have not won at home against the Chiefs since their last winning season of 2002.

Be prepared for the possible AFC playoff match-up that could take place this January should both teams continue playing well.

Kick-off is 1:15pm at the Oakland Coliseum.

Raiders Beat Chargers 35 - 27

2010-10-11T14:57:00.000-07:00

photos by Willie Eashman

Sports In The Bay

by

Felicia and Eddrick

The Raiders (2-3) beat the Chargers (2-3) 35-27 yesterday to get back in the AFC West race. Two blocked punts in the first quarter and a late defensive touchdown by SS Tyvon Branch bracketed this most important win. Starting QB Bruce Gradkowski left the game in the second quarter with a shoulder injury and was relieved by backup QB Jason Campbell, who led them to the win. The Raiders ended San Diego's 13 game winning streak against them. Next up for the Raiders are the San Francisco Forty Niners who are now 0-5 after suffering their fifth straight loss last night to the Philadelphia Eagles 27 - 24.

Texans 31 - Raiders 24 - Postgame Wrap Up

2010-10-04T07:40:00.000-07:00

Photos by Willie Eashmen

Sports In The Bay

Felicia and Eddrick

Here is the postgame wrap up of yesterday's Raiders/Texans games.

Click here for postgame interviews with Coach Tom Cable, RB Michael Bush, KR Johnnie Lee Higgins, DE Richard Seymour, QB Matt Schaub, DE Mario Williams, DE Antonio Smith, LB DeMeco Ryans, and Jamelle Damon & Mike Nez from Raider Nation.

Shots from Warriors Media Day 2010

2010-09-27T23:09:00.000-07:00

The Golden State Warriors announced a new head coach and staff and a revamped roster, complete with tattoos as the NBA kicked-off its league-annual Media Day.

Photos by Z'ma Wyatt

Newly appointed Warriors Coach Keith Smart and his staff

Guard Cheyne Gadson

Power forward David Lee

Center Dan Gadzuric

Guard Stephen Curry

Guard Jeremy Lin

RAIDERS MOURN PASSING OF GEORGE BLANDA

2010-09-27T13:26:00.000-07:00

photo courtesy of espn

Sports in the Bay!

The Oakland Raiders have announced their sadness in the passing of QB/Kicker George Blanda.

When inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1981, Raiders owner Al Davis called Blanda the greatest clutch player the game of pro football has ever known.

The Miracle of George Blanda in 1970 will live for eternity in the history of the Raiders as well as all of professional football. That year, Blanda’s last-minute heroics as a quarterback and place kicker resulted in four victories and a last second tie for the Silver and Black. He became the oldest player in NFL history playing until he was 49-years old.

"Our heart goes out to his wife Betty and the Blanda family and we grieve with them for our great friend," said the Raiders organization.

The legend of George Blanda began on October 25, 1970 against Pittsburgh, Blanda came off the bench to throw three touchdowns and kicked a field goal to lead the Raiders to a 31-14 victory.

The next week in Kansas City, he kicked a 48-yard field goal with three seconds remaining to tie the Chiefs at 17. The following Sunday, Blanda came off the bench to throw a touchdown pass to tie Cleveland at 20, then kicked a game-winning 52-yard field goal with three seconds remaining to earn the Raiders a 23-20 win.

The magic continued the next week when Blanda threw a touchdown pass late in the game to defeat Denver, 24-19. The streak culminated with a 16-yard field goal with seconds remaining to beat San Diego, 20-17.

For his supreme efforts and accomplishments, Blanda was honored as the AFC Player of the Year in 1970.

A private funeral service will be held for the family. A memorial service will be held with the time and place to be announced at a later date.

This is the second lost for the organization in recent month. Jack Tatum lost his battle with diabetes nearly two months ago.

Warriors Name Keith Smart New Head Coach; Replaces Don Nelson

2010-09-27T12:59:00.000-07:00

Former IU Star & Long-Time NBA Assistant Becomes 23rd Head Coach In Franchise History; adds Jerry Sichting, Calbert Cheaney, Robert Werdann and Mark Price to coaching staff

Sports in the Bay!

After leading the Warriors to the playoffs for the first time in 20-years, the Golden State Warriors have parted ways with twice-tenured head coach Don Nelson, replacing him with longtime assistant coach Keith Smart.

Smart, 46, will become the 23rd head coach in franchise history and the 18th since the team moved to the West Coast prior to the 1962-63 season.

“We feel that Keith Smart is ready for this challenge as we embark on a new season,” said General Manager Larry Riley. “He has a wealth of experience as a player and coach in this game and has been fortunate to be around some of the best minds in the business, including Don Nelson at the NBA level and Bobby Knight in college."

A favorite among the players, the personable Smart is considered a great communicator with extensive football knowledge. He has added fellow Indiana alum and former Warriors forward Calbert Cheaney, who served as an assistant for the organization last year.

No stranger to coaching, Smart filled in for Nelson on several occasions last season in addition to prior CBA coaching experience.

"In regard to Nellie, we simply felt it was the right time to make a change. He’s been a terrific coach for over three decades and has left a lasting legacy in this league as the winningest coach in the history of the NBA,” said Riley.

Smart, has spent nearly 10-years as an assistant with Golden State and has over 21-years of experience combined as a player and coach. The Lousiana native also played for the Cleveland Cavaliers and was named the CBA's Coach of the Month five time as head coach of the Ft. Wayne Fury where he proudly cultivated the careers of 21 future NBA players.

Originally drafted by the Warriors in the second round (41st overall) in the 1998 draft Smart played for the San Antonio Spurs and the Cleveland Cavaliers. He brings to Golden State a wealth of basketball knowledge that is widespread.

His stellar collegiant career at Indiana University, included leading the Hoosiers to the 1987 NCAA Championship under colorful coach Bobby Knight. Named the Most Outstanding Player of the 1987 Final Four Smart is best known for his game-winning shot against Syracuse in the 1987 title game in New Orleans.

This is one of the first major decisions under new ownership the second would be the rumored possible trade of Carmelo Anthony.

The Golden State Warriors will open their 2010-2011 regular season at home on November 3rd versus Memphis.

COACHING BIOS:

Jerry Sichting - Has served as a member of the Minnesota Timberwolves organization for 13 of the past 14 seasons, including 11 of those years as an assistant coach. Most recently, he served as the Timberwovles Director of Pro Player Personnel, during which time he was responsible for scouting and evaluating current NBA players. His lone season away from the T-Wolves in the last 14 years came in 2006-07 when he served as an assistant coach at Marquette University.

Calbert Cheaney - Known as a fundamentally-sound player during his 13-year NBA career, Cheaney re-joined the Warriors last year in a front office role. During his three-year stint with Golden State Cheaney will be reunited with Monta Ellis and Andris Biedrins, whom he played with 2003-2006.

Robert Werdann - Werdann has spent the last six seasons with the New Orleans Hornets, where he served as an assistant coach in 2009-10. For the five years prior, he served as an advance scout for the Hornets, and was the team’s Summer League coach at the 2009 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. As a player, Werdann was drafted by the Denver Nuggets with the 46th overall selection in the 1992 NBA Draft out of St. John’s and appeared in 47 NBA games over three seasons with the Nuggets and the New Jersey Nets.

Mark Price - A sharp shooter during is playing days Price, the NBA’s all-time leader in free throw percentage in the regular season (.904) and in the postseason (.944), has served as a shooting consultant for the Atlanta Hawks in each of the last two seasons after spending the 2007-08 campaign with the Memphis Grizzlies in a similar position. During his 12-year NBA playing career, Price was named All-NBA First Team in 1992-93 and earned All-NBA Third Team honors three times.

The Warriors 2010-11 Coaching Staff will be listed as follows:

Head Coach - Keith Smart, Indiana

Assistant Coaches - Jerry Sichting, Purdue; Stephen Silas, Brown; Calbert Cheaney, Indiana; Rob Werdann, St. John’s.

Shooting Coach - Mark Price, Georgia Tech

For more information go to: http://www.warriors.com/

Post Game Press Conferences - Raiders vs. St. Louis

2010-09-27T11:15:00.000-07:00

QB Bruce Gradkowski post-game

QB Jason Campbell

Photos by Willie Eashman

WR Louis Murphy

by Felicia and Eddrick

Check out complete post-game audio interviews from the Raider's home opener win over St. Louis with Coach Tom Cable, QB Bruce Gradkowski, QB Jason Campbell and second-year receivers Darius Heyward-Bey, and Louis Murphy.

Get the audio here:

Sports In The Bay!

Head coach Tom Cable

WR Darius Heyward-Bey

Felicia & Eddrick Recap Raider's Win

2010-09-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

Sports In The Bay!

Felicia and Eddrick recap the Raider's 16 - 14 win over the St. Louis Rams.

Viewpoint on More Public Radio!

2010-09-11T22:16:00.000-07:00

Sports In The Bay

by

Felicia and Eddrick

You can catch Felicia and Eddrick every Saturday morning at 9am on Viewpoint on More Public Radio! Each week, they'll chat about what's going on in Bay Area Sports. Check out this week's segment as they discuss tomorrow's opening of the 2010 NFL season.

NFL PREVIEW: Raiders Have a Newfound 'Swagger' in Preparation for the Titans

2010-09-10T13:41:00.000-07:00

A lot is riding on the shoulders of Raiders QB Campbell to guide his new team to the post-season.

By Felicia
Sports in the Bay, Inc.

One good thing right now is the Raiders are undefeated, no wins or losses. But the best thing about the Raiders this year that fans would say is the quarterback season. Oakland got rid of some dead weight (literally) by releasing JaMarcus Russell, immediatelly thrusting QB Jason Campbell into the starting position.

However, back-up QB Bruce Gradkowski isn't shabby either, garnering a following of his own when he took over for a benched Russell last season.

Although the pocket presence of both the current Raiders QB's are much different than Russell's, Sunday will give all a better prespective of what lies ahead for the Silver and Black. Marred by injuries, head coach Tom Cable is concerned and anxious to be able to have all of his players healthy and on the field at once.

Much rides on the shoulders of off-season acquisition, quarterback Jason Campbell, running back Darren McFadden and wide receiver Louis Murphy; however, the Oakland Raiders are ready for the task after a solid pre-season (3-1) and a dismal 5-11 season last year.

Unlike recent years, the Raiders locker room was laid back and loose on the Thursday leading up to the kick-off of their 51st NFL season Sunday as they travel to face the Tennessee Titans.

The expectations to break their 7th year playoff slump is high and the Raiders have had a favorable schedule compared to previous years.

One less concern for Oakland is former Raider killer LaDanian Tomlinson who racked up career games against the Raiders as a San Diego Charger. Kansas City is in a rebuilding stage and the Denver Broncos are banged up so the AFC West are for the Raiders to claim.

Notable Injuries: RB Michael Bush (thumb surgery -out), WR Chaz Schillens (knee-out)

Raiders Wrap-Up W/Felicia

2010-09-03T15:52:00.000-07:00

Tom Cable Postgame Press Conference

2010-09-03T15:43:00.000-07:00

Sights and Sounds from the Game!

2010-08-29T13:13:00.000-07:00

Photo by Willie Eashman

Sports In The Bay

Sports In The Bay takes you inside the locker-room with post game interviews. Also, be sure and check out some exciting photos by Willie Eashman!

Niners/Raiders Game Recap

2010-08-29T10:36:00.000-07:00

Sports In The Bay !

by Felicia & Eddrick

Here is our post-game video recap of the Niners/Raiders pre-season matchup!

Running the Gauntlet!

2010-08-28T20:03:00.000-07:00

Sports In The Bay

by Eddrick

At halftime of tonight's Raiders/Niners game I left the press box to go and visit a friend (what's up Soulchica). This entailed walking through the throngs of Raider and Niner fans who had packed the main concourse. What a sight! I was shoulder to shoulder with passionate fans of both teams. At times, you couldn't move at all and I found myself trapped. "Raaaaiiiiidddderrrrs!" shouted one fan (in my ear) dressed in a silver and black hockey mask. "Niiiiinnerrrs!" shouted a slightly inebriated young lady in tight jeans and a Patrick Willis jersey. I was safely dressed in neutral blue, so I didn't attract much attention. I covered my press pass though. The emotion of this game was very high, despite it being a pre-season game.

What struck me was how lucky we are to be in the Bay Area and able to have two historic NFL teams in such close proximity to each other. Its a good thing and a healthy rivalry. I can't wait until the two teams meet again in the regular season.

Training Camp Concludes in Napa

2010-08-27T10:49:00.000-07:00

Raiders cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha

Photo by Willie Eshman

By Felicia

Sports in the Bay!

Thursday mid-morning was full of smiles and pleasantries as the Oakland Raiders packed-up their belonging and commenced their grueling five-week training camp in Napa, California.

Training camp is strictly that...training. It is a time for players of various football levels and experience to prove they have the credentials to make an NFL roster. However, it is also a time of bonding and getting to know your fellow teammate.

Two-time Raiders Pro Bowl cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha told Sports in the Bay! why bowling night with his teammates was his most memorable moment of training camp this year.

"I think it was a great team bonding experience. You were matched up with players that you didn't know and you got a chance to learn a lot about them and of course my team won so that made it that much better."

Of course Asomugha doesn't remember what he bowled that evening but did admit; "I was the weakest bowler out of all the four of us (which was comprised of two offensive linemen, a tight end and the receivers coach) I'll admit that.

Although his team won their match, the veteran player said nothing matched up to the bonding experience that took place. "Team bonding is great. You want to have that type of bond with your teammates; it's a brotherhood and these are your brothers on the field so you want a closer relationship with them so I think it's huge."

This year, the Raiders will face their cross-town rival, San Francisco 49ers twice, in the pre and regular season. It is a festive time for the Bay Area to show their passion and alliegances to their respective organizations. Asomugha confirmed that the players get just as excited about the proclaimed Battle of the Bay, as the fans.

"It's a big deal, playing against the team right across the bridge. There are bragging rights everytime you play them and it makes it even more special because we play them in the regular season. You want to disrupt any thoughts they may have so guys definitely get excited and pumped up for the game."

Oakland who are currently 2-0 in the pre-season will host their first home game Saturday against the San Francisco 49ers, who are also 2-0 in the pre-season.

Next Tuesday the roster cutdown will be cutdown to a maximum of 75 players with the final cut of 53 players taking place on September 4th.

The Raiders host the 49ers Saturday, August 28th at 6:00pm.

Raiderette Calendar Release Party - Jovann Walker Interview

2010-08-23T21:42:00.000-07:00

Vid by JF

By Felicia

Last week the Oakland Raiderettes held their annual calendar release party at the historical FOX Theatre in downtown Oakland.

Under the direction of first-year director Vandana Patel, this years event was open to the public. Those in attendance were treated to a dance performance by the Raiderettes as well as a meet and greet from Footballs Fabulous Females.

You can see the Raiderettes on the field this Saturday when the Raiders host the San Francisco 49ers at the Oakland Coliseum. Kick-off is 6pm.

Stay tuned to Sports in the Bay for game recap.

Raiderette Calendar Unveiling-Tiaja Jacks Interview

2010-08-23T20:12:00.000-07:00

Raider's Safety Tyvon Branch Chats With Sports In The Bay

2010-08-18T07:50:00.000-07:00

Sports In The Bay

Raider's Safety #33 Tyvon "Branchy" Branch took time after yesterday's practice to chat with Felicia about the upcoming season.

Gorilla Rilla, HAZMAT Boyz, and Black Hole Rob

2010-08-18T07:10:00.000-07:00

Sports In The Bay

Raider Nation Royalty visited the Raider's training camp yesterday. NFL Hall of Fame member Gorilla Rilla, HAZMAT BOYZ, and Black Hole Rob checked out the 2010 Raiders. They also promoted their upcoming video release party for HAZMAT's song Total Eclipse. The release party will take place on 8/27/10 at Ricky's in Oakland.

All Eyez on Me

2010-08-17T23:09:00.000-07:00

New Raider QB Jason Campbell

Sports in the Bay

Eddrick

Another NFL season is upon us and training camp is well underway. While observing a Raider's practice today I reflected upon the ten questions I came up with at the end of last season. I felt that the questions were at the core of restoring the Silver and Black to the upper tier of the NFL. Let's review those questions and take a look at how the Organization addressed them:

1. What to do with Jamarcus Russell?

They had no choice but to cut him. Let’s hope things work out in the end and the young man gets himself together. Their decision was made easier with the acquisition of Jason Campbell. Props to the Organization for making the tough, but necessary, choice.

2. Will Richard Seymour return?

Yes. Another good decision by the Organization. Veteran presence, championship caliber intangibles, and he can put the QB on his back. Next question.

3. How can they generate enough fan interest/ticket sales to lift the TV blackouts?

Discounts, discounts, and ticket giveaways! Lots of them! Get tickets into peoples hands and point them towards the Coliseum. This team is talented and with the right mix of deafening noise from Raider Nation they could win seven or eight home games. Fans in the seats matter when its 3^rd and 1 on your own goal line in late season games. It’s the difference between scoring a field goal or six points. Find a way to lift the blackout! Then again, this one can be solved by Just Winning Baby. We’ll have to wait and see.

4. Will Al Davis retain Coach Tom Cable?

Yes. Another good move by the Organization.

5. Who will they draft, and why?

The Organization went heavy on defensive players and offensive linemen. The team is talented at the skill positions and the addition of Jason Campbell upgraded a vulnerable spot. They drafted wisely and purposely. Well done.

6. Will they hire a General Manager?

Next question.

7. Can they keep their most talented players?

Yes. Nnamdi, Seymour, and what could be a very talented linebacking core.

8. What to do with Darrius Heyward Bey?

Stability at the QB position could unleash his potential. There is stiff competition at the WR position, so things won’t be easy. This will be a fun question to explore throughout the season. Again, we’ll have to wait and see.

9. Will a talented free agent want to sign with the Raiders?

They re-signed quite a few of their own free agents and kept up their overall level of talent. So the answer to this question is yes.

10. Will they be able to truly restore the greatness of this historic franchise?

I’m laying this one squarely on the offensive line. If they can protect Jason Campbell and block for the running backs, things can turn around quickly. Jason Campbell’s numbers have improved each year of his career. His passer rating of 86.4 last year was higher than the ratings for Carson Palmer, Vince Young, Matt Ryan, Jay Cutler, Matt Hasselbeck, Matt Cassel, Mark Sanchez, etc. His 64.4 completion percentage was higher than Tony Romo’s and Eli Manning’s (look it up). In other words, he’s a bona fide NFL QB. The Raiders need excellent play from the QB position and positive production from the running game in order to win. If the offensive line performs the Raiders will score 22 points per game, more than enough to be a playoff contender. However…

Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Greatness is earned and the Raiders have an opportunity to restore the luster of Silver and Black. The 2010 NFL season is upon us. Let the games begin!

Nick Miller Q&A

2010-08-11T23:55:00.000-07:00

Sports in the Bay Exclusive - Q & A with Raiders Linebacker Trevor Scott

2010-08-08T21:47:00.000-07:00

Raiders linebacker Trevor Scott (right) working hard at training camp.

Photo by Willie Eashman

By J.P.
Sports in the Bay Jr. Reporter

Raiders linebacker Trevor Scott has hit the ground running again in his third season with the team. The Buffalo alum has been hitting the weights harder than he has before earning the nickname "Scissor" by teammate DE Matt Shaughnessy.

I caught up with Scott for a brief Q and A in Napa. Home of Raiders Training Camp.

J.P. : I know you went to Buffalo University. What do you think about the head coach they brought in awhile back?

Trevor Scott: Bob Quinn? I talked to him when I went down there for the pro day. He's a great guy, I mean he's a hard nosed, nose-to-the-grind stone type of guy and he's going to have the boys ready this year.

J.P. : Are you going to get rid of all the hair?

T.S. : Yeah, I'm going to get a haircut, but I don't know about the beard yet.

J.P. : How do you prepare for a game? Do you have a pre-game ritual?

T.S. : I don't eat before the games, sometimes I eat scrambled eggs and a couple of pancakes but that's about it.

J.P. : I see you've gotten bigger. What kind of lifting have you done to get so in shape?

T.S. : I just try heavy weight training in the off-season stuff like that I mean wear and tear over the is pretty crazy. I spent all off-season trying to get strong trying to get yourself ready for the season. When the season is on you don't do so much lifting so you naturally get smaller so when the off-season comes I hit it hard.

J.P.: Thanks for your time, good luck in training camp.

T.S. : Thanks

Sam Williams Interview with SITB

2010-08-05T01:54:00.000-07:00

Raiders linebacker Sam Williams discusses his foundation, training camp and the loss of teammate Marquis Cooper.
Video by jf

Raiders Training Camp: Q and A with Nnamdi Asomugha

2010-08-02T19:26:00.000-07:00

Felicia sits down for an in-depth interview with Raiders Pro-Bowl cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha.

Understanding the Greatness of the Raiders

2010-08-01T17:48:00.000-07:00

Me interviewing 1st-round draft pick, offensive lineman Bruce Campbell and the silly red hat. - Photo by Felicia

By J.P., Jr. Reporter
Sports in the Bay – Training Camp Exclusive

On Saturday, July 31 in Napa, California I had one of the most exciting but gut checking experiences. At Raiders Training Camp working with my aunt as a junior reporter, I had one of the most respected men in the history of NFL football notice a hat I was wearing. That man was Raiders owner Mr. Al Davis.

Of all days I had decided to wear a RED North Carolina State hat. I was standing around with the other reporters and I noticed that it began to get quiet so I looked up and saw that it was Mr. Davis pulling up in a golf cart, so I smiled and said “Hello Mr. Davis” and Mr. Davis looked at me and said “What are you doing with that red hat on?” I snatched that hat off of my head so fast I almost ripped my head off. When he began pulling away I saw that he began to smile. I was scared out of my mind but then I began to think about the meaning behind his remark and I ask myself: Why be scared? You were just noticed by the owner of the Oakland Raiders for crying out loud!

After that I vowed that I will never ever wear anything red to the Raiders training camp ever again. The thing that I like about the Raiders staff is that once they began working there they become a Raider even if they don’t play for the team.

For example I was having small talk with the a security guard and I slipped up and called Mr. Davis ‘Al.’ Before I could even get the next word out he corrected me so fast and told me to call him ‘Mr. Davis’ or ‘Mr. Al Davis’.

This unforgettable incident truly gave me and inside look at the tradition and history of the Raiders. Silver and Black rolls threw everyone’s veins within the organization and they know not to ever disrespect the organization by doing something as asinine as I did.

My experience at Oakland Raiders training will always be a day of infamy and I will never forget it.

This is the true definition behind understanding the greatness of the Oakland Raiders.

Berkeley Jr. Bears Cheerleaders hold final signups!

2010-07-30T01:21:00.000-07:00

When: Saturday, July 30 from 11:00am - 4:00pm

Locale: Oasis Pamper Bar
3823 San Pablo Ave.
Emeryville, CA

Purpose: For the youth to learn critical skills such as personal responsibility, discipline, time management, teamwork, and leadership while developing a healthy self-esteem.

Fee:
$100.00 to Initiate Registration Football & Cheer Registration Fee: $225.00($50 off registration if $100 non-refindable deposit paid by June 13th) Uniform Fee: $175.00

For more information visit their website: California Golden Jr. Bears -
www.berkeleycaliforniagoldenjrbears.com

Raiders officially begin training camp with high-hopes

2010-07-30T01:06:00.000-07:00

Coach Cable

QB Jason Campbell

DT Richard Seymour

By Felicia

Training camp officially began on Thursday for the Oakland Raiders upcoming 2010-2011season in Napa, California with a clean slate, just what this team needed for a team that hasn’t had a winning record in nearly 10-years.

“Having a whole team here is a credit to the organization,” said head coach Tom Cable. In terms of newest quarterback Jason Campbell’s leadership he replied he’s “Hungry and passionate for leadership, I think he’s taken it and run away with it.”

Good football character has been the word Coach Cable has used in reference to his new team.

“My goal is to do what I can to help the team win,” said Campbell, who was the 2005 draft pick of the Washington Redskins.

For the first time in recent years the Raiders were credited for their off-season draft moves and signees with some predicting them to break their playoff drought by giving them a high ranking in their division.

“We have a lot of young talent. Guys are very talented, their tall, their big, the sky’s the limit for them,” said QB Jason Campbell of the impression of the young receiving team.

“Good to get back here and knock some of the rust off,” said Veteran Defensive Tackle Richard Seymour.” “Training camp is actually the on time individually to hone our skills,” said Seymour. For me training camp is about laying the foundation for the season.”

“I think we’ll be good, real good, just with the guys I have in front of me, Richard Seymour, Kelley and Jay (Richardson) those guys, especially the linebackers, it’s scary at how good I think we could be” said rookie Linebacker Rolando Blackmon.

No doubt there is a different chemistry between these guys then in years past, they are listening to one another and building something deeper, a brotherhood.
Building a brotherhood and a since of chemistry and together playing together into of individuals One game at a time and win.

Raiders Training Camp will run from now until August at the Napa Marriott in Napa, California.

Goodbye to the Assassin

2010-07-28T07:13:00.000-07:00

Raiders safety was an Ohio State alum and 3-time Pro Bowler

Placing his most powerful hit in the Superbowl on a Vikings player

By Felicia

When the Raiders left Oakland, I hated them and became loyal to the Maroon and Gold across the bridge. To add to my dislike, I started to learn more about Jack Tatum who had long retired once I became a 49er fan.

My late Uncle Chuckie had told me how he was there when the menacing Raiders safety placed a paralyzing hit on Patriots receiver Darryl Stingley in 1978 confining him to a wheelchair until his death a few years ago. Known as The Assassin field for his eye-popping hits, Tatum would write a book by the same name that some felt hardly showed remorse for the career ending hit on Stingley.

That was until I met him in the late 1990’s in Lake Tahoe. You know the feeling you get when you rip someone and then when you meet them they are nothing like you thought? That’s the feeling I got with Mr. Tatum. He was witty and personable. His chuckle was deep, his persona shy, yet his eyes were still on you. I waited for an Assassin personality to erupt, however, I got none. I had a change of heart. This man couldn’t have purposely meant to paralyze someone.

No doubt, he was doing his job on the field, back then football didn’t have the rules they have in today’s NFL. Today the story that hasn’t been heavily reported is Tatum tried to visit Stingley while he was in an Oakland hospital but was turned away by Stingley’s family.

Tuesday, The Assassin died from a heart attack at the age of 61, a three-time Pro Bowler known as one of the most feared at his position.

Tatum would have a journey of his own, battling diabetes and losing parts of both his legs in recent years. He lost his life Tuesday morning as the ripe age of 61, from a heart attack.

Unfortunately he and Stingley would never come to a happy medium on earth; hopefully they can on that big football field in the sky.

NBA's Premier Dance Team Holds Auditions

2010-07-27T14:10:00.000-07:00

video by jf

By Felicia

This past weekend nearly 200 women came out to audition for the 2010-2011 Warrior Girls Dance Team.

In the past several years that dance director Susan Hovey has been at the helm, auditions for this NBA dance team has garnered some of the strongest dancers in and outside of the Bay Area.

A modern dance routine was taught by top-notch choreographers Mz. V and Chocolate, who taught the girls a modern dance routine followed by Mario who taught a hip shaking Beyonce-esque hip hop routine.

This year Hovey had former of the Memphis Grizzlie's dance team as well as others from respected dance teams.

“I could put together my dance team today,” said Hovey from Club Sport in San Ramon, the locale of the tryouts. “These girls are talented.”

The Warrior Girls 2010-2011 dance team will be selected this week. For more information go to www.warriors.com.

Raiders End Season With Loss

2010-01-04T18:20:00.001-08:00

Raven's LB Ray Lewis offers words of encouragement to Raider's QB Jamarcus Russell after another Raider loss.
Photo by Eddrick

Felicia and Eddrick

Sports In The Bay

The Raider's season came to an end yesterday with a 21 -13 loss to the playoff bound Baltimore Ravens. Their season ends at 5 - 11 marking the seventh straight year of at least 11 losses. Though they played well at times this year, and beat several quality teams, they could not put together any offensive consistency to compliment a pretty good defense. Here are ten questions that the front office, er, Al Davis will need to address this offseason.

1. What to do with Jamarcus Russell?
2. Will Richard Seymour return?
3. How can they generate enough fan interest/ticket sales to lift the TV blackouts?
4. Will Al Davis retain Coach Tom Cable?
5. Who will they draft, and why?
6. Will they hire a General Manager?
7. Can they keep their most talented players?
8. What to do with Darrius Heyward Bey?
9. Will a talented free agent want to sign with the Raiders?
10. Will they be able to truly restore the greatness of this historic franchise?

You have to give much respect to the die hard fans of Raider Nation. They may not have turned out in large numbers this year, but they remained passionate and loyal to the team. However, with the current state of the economy, and the high price tag for tickets, the Raiders don't have any more good will to squander with their fan base. The standards for the organization are in place, and the Raider tradition is as strong as ever. They need to make the playoffs next year. Anything else will be unacceptable.

Click HERE to listen to post game interviews with Coach Tom Cable, LB Thomas Howard, DE Richard Seymour, Raven's LB Ray Lewis, and NFL Legend MacArthur Lane.

Player plays Santa for some deserving kids

2009-12-08T14:57:00.000-08:00

Sports In the Bay

Christmas came early for a group of Berkeley Youth Alternatives members last week in San Francisco.

Warrior’s forward and second year player Anthony Morrow surprised the group of kids with a shopping spree at the Adidas Sports Performance Store in San Francisco.

Kids packed their Adidas shopping bags with hoodies, T-Shirts, jersey’s, shoes and whatever else could fit into their bags.

Berkeley Youth Alternatives is an afterschool program offering mentoring, sports program and clinical support to youth in the Berkeley area.

TO CHEER OR NOT TO CHEER - Cheering in the Pressbox

2009-12-08T12:55:00.000-08:00

By J.J. Kahn
Sports In the Bay

They are a few rules that broadcasters and writers abide by in the press box regarding sporting events all around the world, but the major rule is NO CHEERING IN THE PRESS BOX.

I, for one am guilty of this rule, as in my first year a student assistant in
the Sports Information Department at Cal State Northridge was caught clapping on
press row during a Women’s Volleyball game by the Assistant Sports Information
Director, who informed me of the rule that you are not allowed to cheer on press
row, ever!

Over the past 13 years since committing this Cardinal Sin, I have only cheered
once in a press box, as it was on the night that Giants pitcher Jonathan Sanchez threw the first no-hitter since 1976 this past season.

I was fortunate to be in the press box on the night of August 7, 2007; the night that Barry Bonds broke Hank Aaron’s home run record. Not a single soul applauded when the most hallowed record in all of sports was broken. When in Rome, do like the Romans do so I followed everyone’s lead and kept quiet.

Before every game at Candlestick Park, the in house press box announcer makes an
announcement that states, per NFL rules “There is no cheering allowed in the
Press Box during the game.”

Rather it is announced or not, as a working professional, it is up to us to know the rules of the house and if someone is an intern or assistant, it is their superior’s job to inform them of the dues and don’t s like fraternizing with the players, asking for autographing and cheering.

Although each press box has its own climate it appears that the Press Row at Oakland Raiders games is different.

The cheering is not as loud as the screaming fans in the famous “Black Hole,” but it is noticeable by the writers.

“Did I just hear someone cheering,” one writer said to be during halftime at a recent Raider home game this season. “That is just unprofessional!”

This same person has seen her own nephew score his second NFL touchdown in San Francisco and didn’t open her mouth. Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald’s father, Larry Sr. is a longtime sportswriter. When the camera cut to him this past week when his son got a touchdown, he was unemotional.

There has never been a reminder announcement about this type of behavior in Oakland but it definitely sets the tone and makes those of us who have worked hard question the type of people who are allowed to cover games for such a storied franchise and organization. I’ve always felt their staff was very fair and I am sure if it was announced and stressed in perhaps a memo, people would understand the importance…and unprofessionalism of these actions!

Unfortunately people are not separating their personal feelings from their professions. When you are covering a game, you are to be unbiased, not a fan.

Of course we admire players and their athletic abilities on the field, however out of respect for the position and those who have come before us; we should always conduct ourselves as consummate professionals.

From Chad Ochocinco choice to receive fines instead of adhering to NFL rules to NBA players refusing to report to their traded team, to the woman dressed inappropriately in the locker room, I guess it is just a sign of the times but I hope it’s not. We really need to quit watering down everything and keep the beauty of order and tradition.

Jeremy Kahn is a contributor to Sports in the Bay and his comments are not necessarily the personal beliefs of Sports in the Bay.

First year football tourney has big turnout

2009-12-02T15:18:00.000-08:00

Members of A Fo Sho Win
Photo courtesy of Keyon Johnson

By Keyon Johnson

Last Saturday had to be one of the windiest days in recent years but it wouldn’t stop the nearly 300 people from working off post Thanksgiving day turkey to participate in the First Annual 2009 Turkey Bowl Tournament at Pittsburg High School.

Eight teams, 18 years and older from across the Bay Area showed up as early as 7:15am and stayed as late as 5:00pm to compete in the double elimination tournament for the Pennington Championship Trophy.

The Championship game came down to two teams, A Fo Sho Win (3-0) and Runnin 7 Deep (4-1). A Fo Sho Win displayed dominance throughout the day averaging over 50 points per game. While Runnin 7 Deep dropped their first game and from there played and won their way back into the championship game by knocking off four straight opponents.

In the championship game both teams were exuberating great defense and by half time Runnin 7 Deep was leading 7-6. At the beginning of the second half A Fo Sho Win showed why they were the team to beat scoring 22 unanswered points in six minutes to make the score 28-7.

On the very next possession Runnin 7 Deep threw a pass that was picked off and ran in the end zone for 6 points by the Max Muscle Brentwood Maximum Player of the Day Marcus Davis (Pittburg, CA) that ended the game.

“This was a positive event going on in the community,” Davis said. “It gave people a chance to come back and support Pittsburg High School. It gave an opportunity for some of the former Pittsburg High School standout players to come out and showcase their talents again.”

As for Davis’ performance and capturing the Max Muscle Brentwood Maximum Player of the Day award he had this to say.

“It felt good to win the Max Muscle Brentwood Maximum Player of the Day award.” “I can’t say that I was necessarily shocked because I knew that I put on a good show. I have to give credit to my teammates because they helped me out a lot.”

A Fo Sho Win coach Jason Stenson (Pittsburg, CA) was excited about the win and the day.

“I thought that the tournament was a great idea,” Stenson said. “Overall I thought that it was a great turnout and conducted professionally. I think that my team performed very well, I know most of the guys and played with most of them before, but I knew that we had a good chance to win the Pennington trophy with the athletes that we had on our team. Being the older guy on the team I was just worried about my performance. Overall I give the Pick 6 Turkey Bowl an A++.”

The Pick 6 Flag Football Tournament was created to provide the community with the opportunity to engage in physical activities, showcase their talents as well as interact with others that share similar interest in a fun, safe and competitive environment.

“We were very excited to get this 1st Annual Pick 6 Flag Football Tournament underway,” Pick 6 Co-Founder Ontario Johnson said. “The turnout was excellent and the competition out there was tremendous, everyone seemed to have a great time and got a long. We just want to thank all those people that came out to support us, as well as those that couldn’t make it but wanted to. Our sponsors Max Muscle Brentwood, Pennington Plumbing, Celia’s Mexican Restaurant were all great. The only thing was that we had trouble with was the Mother Nature. But at least it was just a lot of wind and not a lot of rain. We were able to deal with that.”

Not only were the teams able to deal with the obstacle that Mother Nature presented but they were able to fight through it and enjoy a great time while participating in a fun competitive flag football tournament.

For more information on future tournaments contact Keyon Johnson at onkeypr@gmail.com.

Dwight Clark Joins 49ers Business Operations Team

2009-12-02T15:13:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of San Francisco 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers announced today that former wide receiver Dwight Clark has been hired as a business operations consultant for the Club. Clark will work alongside 49ers Chief Operating Officer Andy Dolich and Vice President of Football Affairs Keena Turner. He will focus on special projects relating to sponsorship development, corporate hospitality, community investment, premium seating and the new stadium sales effort.

“As a 49ers legend, former football executive and businessman, Clark will be a great addition to the 49ers business operations efforts,” said 49ers Chief Operating Officer Andy Dolich. “The impact he has already made in regards to the history of the 49ers has been remarkable and we are confident he will bring the same effect to our business operations as well.”

A legendary 49ers player, Clark spent his entire career in the Red and Gold (1979-87), before becoming an accomplished football executive and successful businessman. Since retiring from football, Clark has served as General Manager for both the San Francisco 49ers (1998) and the Cleveland Browns (1998-2002), and has also been involved in real estate development.

“I am extremely excited and grateful to the 49ers organization for giving me the opportunity to once again be a part of the 49ers family,” said Clark. “The franchise is most definitely pointed in the right direction. I look forward to every contribution I can make on the business side.”

A native of Kinston, NC, Clark was a two-time Pro Bowl selection and member of two Super Bowl winning teams while in San Francisco. He currently ranks third in team history in receiving yards (6,750), fourth in receptions (506) and fifth in receiving touchdowns (48). Having appeared in 134 games during his nine-year career, Clark’s streak of 105 consecutive games with a reception also ranks third all-time.

To the 49ers Faithful, Clark will always be remembered for what is simply known as “The Catch.” Trailing the Dallas Cowboys in the final minute of the 1981 NFC Championship Game, Clark leaped and miraculously caught a six-yard pass from quarterback Joe Montana in the back of the end zone to give the 49ers a 28–27 victory.

About the San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers, owned by Denise and John York, currently play in the NFC West division and won each Super Bowl contest it entered, earning five Super Bowl trophies including Super Bowl XVI, XIX, XXIII, XXIV and XXIX. The franchise also has five conference championships and 17 divisional championships and was the first major league professional sports franchise to be based in San Francisco over 60 years ago.

Andre “SOG” Ward remains undefeated

2009-11-23T02:10:00.000-08:00

Sports In the Bay

Photos by Felicia D. McDaniel and
Miguel Blair

The 10,000-plus strong at ORACLE Arena were beginning to get antsy, after all they had been waiting nearly 30-minutes for the guy who calls himself “Son of God.”

Once the lights went out, all that had been erased and the chants of “USA” and “Let’s Go Oakland” bellowed throughout the Arena in favor of their hometown hero, boxer Andre “Son of God” Ward.

A native of Oakland and San Francisco, it would be the biggest fight of the 2004 Olympic Gold Medalist’s career in a nationally televised 12-round Showtime bout versus reigning WBA Super Middleweight champion, Dutchman Mikkel Kessler.

It would also be the official kick-off for the Super Six World Boxing Classic, a tournament consisting of six-fighters, three Americans and three Europeans.

The David and Goliath-like script of Ward and Kessler couldn’t be more movie-like. The hometown hero and underdog returns home to fight in front of his home crowd and slay the sturdy veteran.

Tale of the tape showed Kessler and Ward evenly matched prior to Saturday, the only vast difference being their ages, Kessler (42-2; 32 KO’s) 30 and Ward (21-0; 13 KO’s) 25-years.

However, wisdom and age would mean nothing on this night as Ward came out of his corner skillfully wearing Kessler down with body blows and jabs.

The fight would be stopped midway through the 11th due to a gash Kessler sustained in the previous round above his left eye.

Hands down the Oscar goes to Ward for his role as David.

In his press conference afterwards Ward received a proclamation from the City of San Francisco with Mayor Newsom officially proclaiming November 21st as Andre Ward Day.

“I want to send a message to kids and the adults here that nothing is impossible with God on your side,” said the devout Christian whose robe displayed the words “Jesus Christ is King” on the back.

Although the name Andre Ward is not as commonly used as it should be in fight circles, Ward is confident Saturday’s turnout sends a strong message.

“To see the crowd tonight, it was just unbelievable. People said I couldn’t draw, that boxing was dead in Oakland but they have to think twice now. Boxing is definitely on the map in Oakland.”

Raiders Honor first Hispanic Astronaut

2009-10-25T17:17:00.001-07:00

Sports in the Bay
Photos by M.S. McDaniel

Every since he was a kid, Jose Hernandez loved math and science. Growing up in Stockton, the 47-year old father of five also loved something else, the Oakland Raiders.

Loving all three of those things has put him in the history books. On August 28th Hernandez, an engineer, became the first Hispanic astronaut American to fly into space and to be honored on the field at a Raiders game.

Donning his space uniform and a Raiders hat Hernandez presented Raiders legend Jim Otto with the framed flag that he took into space in a pre-game ceremony. Hernandez’ two-week mission ended on September 11th.

“I bleed Silver and Black,” Hernandez told Sports in the Bay.

Of Mexican descent, Hernandez was responsible for developing equipment for full-field digital mammography at the Lawrence Livermore Nation Laboratory in Livermore.

A product of migrant workers, he didn’t speak English until the age of 12 years old but that didn’t stop him.

He would go on to graduate with a B.S. from the University of the Pacific and a M.S. in Electrical & Computer Engineering from the University of California – Santa Barbara as well as receive several NASA awards.

When he was asked about his trip to space Hernandez had one word: “UNBELIEVABLE.”

We know it won’t be his last.

Congratulations Commander Hernandez!

RAIDERS TEAM-UP TO HELP BATTLE BREAST CANCER

2009-10-25T15:12:00.000-07:00

Sports In the Bay
Photos by M.S. McDaniel

Breast cancer is a deadly disease rapidly affecting our community which is why the Oakland Raiders and Alta Bates Summit Medical Center has made it their mission to bring awareness by holding their annual Football 101.

Nearly 80 people were present on Saturday enjoyed a delicious BBQ lunch, learn the X’s and O’s of football as well as meet Raiders players Kirk Morrison, Louis Murphy, Chris Johnson and Johnnie Lee Higgins.

“I love Football 101,” said Marie Femminis, a 10-year attendee of the annual event and a Raiders season ticket holder. Breast cancer touched Femminis’ life when her high school teacher was stricken with the disease.

One and eight women will get breast cancer (12%) with nearly 200,000 invasive breast cancer diagnoses each year.

Rookie wide receiver Louis Murphy knows firsthand about breast cancer, his mother died in his arms while he was a senior at Florida State. They would go on to win the National Championship.

“I play for my mother and the female fans with breast cancer,” said Murphy who made three awesome blocks in last week’s against the Eagles.

Murphy also said that he felt that the pigeon on the field during the game was a symbol of his mother’s everlasting presence.

Warriors Continue to Help the Community

2009-10-22T19:22:00.000-07:00

Sports In The Bay

by Felicia and Eddrick
Photos by Miguel Blair

Its one thing to criticize the Warriors for their actions on the court. However, their efforts to serve the community of Oakland is above reproach. Today they hosted an event at CityTeam Ministries of Oakland which featured players and members of the front office who volunteered their time to provide food for people who are in need.
Players such as Acie Law, Devean George, and Speedy Claxton, along with members of the Warrior Girls dance team, donated their time to serve food.

"I contacted the Warriors organization some time ago and took them a DVD of what goes on here" said Chris Williams Director of CityTeam Ministries of Oakland, "and they wanted to partner up after being impressed. They came on-site and I took them on a tour. From there they wanted to maximize an opportunity to do community service with us here."

At times like this its important to remember that there are things more important than a basketball game. Events like this help us remain focused on what's truly important. Kudos to the Warriors for continuing to do the right thing when it comes to helping out in a community where there is a significant need.

World Boxing Champion Ana Julaton Attends Raiders/Eagles Game

2009-10-19T20:20:00.000-07:00

Sports In The Bay

Check out this impromptu video of World Women's Boxing Champion Ana Julaton. Ana is from the Bay Area. She was at the Raider's game yesterday and called their upset victory over the Eagles. For more info about Ana click here.

Raiders Beat Eagles 13-9

2009-10-19T19:42:00.001-07:00

Michael Vick, JaMarcus Russell, & Donovan McNabb pose after the Raiders win over the Eagles

Sports In The Bay
By Felicia & Eddrick

Raider's fans turned boos into cheers for their hometown heroes after the Raiders defeated the heavily favored Philadelphia Eagles 13 -9 yesterday. The Raiders defense sacked Donovan McNabb six times on the day and kept the potent Eagle offense in check all game. An 86 yard touchdown pass from JaMarcus Russell to Zach Miller in the first quarter set the tone for the rest of the day. "I felt like we (offense) were struggling early on offensively," said Miller, "our defense was playing really well and giving us the ball back. An 86 yard touchdown really gives your offense and your defense a boost."

At times, the Eagles seemed confused by the Raider's blitz packages and the tremendous pressure put on by their defensive linemen. At one point towards the end of the first half, Philly QB Donovan McNabb forgot that his team was out of timeouts and called one. This resulted in a delay of game penalty and was indicative of Philly's inability to react to the Raider's gameplan. "Today showed that if we go out and do the things right that we practice all week long we can come out victorious on Sunday." said LB Kirk Morrison.

Next week the faltering New York Jets come to Oakland for a game that now has huge implications. The Raiders have an opportunity to build upon this nice win while the Jets are trying to halt a losing streak that has reached three games. There was a good feel in the Coliseum yesterday and perhaps the Raiders have found their identity. The next chapter should be very interesting for the Silver and Black.

For sights and sounds from the game click here.

Falconized

2009-10-12T09:21:00.000-07:00

49ers QB Shaun Hill found himself on the ground more than once on Sunday as the Falcons routed San Francisco.

Sports In The Bay
By Felicia and Eddrick

The 49ers high flying season crashed down to earth yesterday after a stunning 45-10 loss to the Atlanta Falcons. The vaunted Niners defense came up short and was unable to stop Atlanta's 35 point outburst in the first half. The Niners had done a good job controlling the football during the first four weeks of the season but committed three costly turnovers which they were unable to overcome.

One thing to keep an eye on is how the team will recover from some disturbing lapses of discipline and focus. Rookie RB Glen Coffee was not on the field after a long catch by WR Josh Morgan and caused the team to use a timeout. That proved costly later on when the Niners were unable to challenge a play that might not have been a turnover. TE Vernon Davis and QB Shaun Hill were not quite on the same page during several plays. CB Dre Bly attempted to channel Deion Sanders after an interception and fumbled during a crucial moment (click here for his comments). And most interesting was the behavior of Coach Mike Singletary who appeared to lose his composure several times on the sidelines.

The Niners have a bye week before heading to Houston to play the Texans. They still control their division and can erase this ugly loss with a win at Texas. The play of the offensive line must improve if they are going to take the next step to being a consistent and winning team. QB Shaun Hill has been sacked sixteen times this year and has yet to reach 1000 yds passing for the season. The running game is not clicking at all. In five games they have rushed for 531 yds, but 30% of that total came on two long runs by the injured Frank Gore. Lastly, third down efficiency (28.2%) remains among the lowest in the league and must improve to complement a pretty good defense. The addition of WR Micheal Crabtree to the offense is encouraging, despite his long holdout. But if the play of the offensive line does not improve he will not get the opportunity to show what he was brought in to do.

Thanks to Ryan Leong of the Bay Area Sports Examiner for the Dre Bly quote!

Sports in the Bay - Spotlight

2009-10-11T18:15:00.000-07:00

THOMAS DECOUD

Atlanta Falcons FS Thomas DeCoud defends 49er TE Vernon Davis

By Felicia and Eddrick

It’s always nice to come away with a win but the taste is a little sweeter when it’s in your hometown. Atlanta Falcons free safety Thomas DeCoud and his cousins grew up with the knowledge that their grandfather, offensive tackle John Thomas instilled in them.

Although he never got the chance to watch their grandfather in person, (he was drafted by the Niners in the 23rd round of the 1957 draft), he definitely planted the football gene in him.

“He instilled in us to play hard,” said DeCoud after his team’s 44-7 trouncing of San Francisco at Candlestick Park. Born in Oakland and raised in Vallejo the motto of hard work from his grandfather and parents landed the Pinole Valley grad a scholarship to Cal Berkeley and now a career with the Falcons.

As the third round pick of the Falcons in last year’s draft, the second-year 205-pound DeCoud held 250-pound tight end Vernon Davis to 5-of-12 for 51 yards.

“I think I did pretty well against him,” he said afterwards with a smile. As a prep at Pinole Valley High DeCoud earned first team All-Alameda Contra Costa Athletic League honors, where he tallied 80 tackles and two interceptions his senior year.

At Cal he started 45 games and was named All Pac-10 Honorable Mention finishing his career with 198 tackles, 1 sack, 5 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles and two forced recoveries.

Hard to believe a young man with a soft-spoken demeanor could do this much damage on the field.

This is the first in a continuing series that Sports In the Bay will bring you spotlighting players from the Bay Area on opposing teams.

Sports In the Bay wishes Thomas all the best in his NFL career.

Warriors to hold free open practice to public October 26th

2009-10-07T22:49:00.000-07:00

The Golden State Warriors will hold a practice session open to the public at Oracle Arena on Monday, October 26 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The laid-back atmosphere gives fans and up close and personal look at how Don Nelson runs his team. In the past, the practices have involved fan participation and giveaways.

Parking and admission to this yearly event is free and the doors opening at approximately 10:30 a.m.

For more information visit the Golden State Warriors website at www.warriors.com.

Logo courtesy of the Golden State Warriors

Did YOU Know ????

2009-10-07T14:54:00.000-07:00

That the Atlanta Falcons have two members of their organization who are from the Bay Area? Kevin Winston, Director of Player Personnel for the Falcons is a graduate of Oakland's Skyline High Schools class of 1983 where he played football for the Titans. Safety Thomas DeCoud is a product of Pinole Valley High School in Pinole who played his collegiate career for the Golden Bears of California.

The 49ers host the Falcons this Sunday. Kick-off is 1:05 p.m.

Finally! Michael Crabtree signs with San Francisco

2009-10-07T14:38:00.000-07:00

Now all he needs is the uniform. Wide receiver Michael Crabtree strikes a football pose for the media shortly after being drafted.

By Felicia and Eddrick

Heading into their fifth week of the season, the San Francisco 49ers and top draft pick Michael Crabtree have finally come to a contract agreement.

Crabtree agreed to a six-year deal worth 32 million after a 72-day holdout. The former Texas Tech wide receiver and two-time winner of the Fred Biletnikoff Award will now learn first hand what it's like to play with men, especially after an opposing defender puts a good lick on him.

Prior to last springs NFL Combine Crabtree watched his draft status decline due to a foot injury. It will be interesting to see how healthy he remains and how quickly he catches on to the 49ers lackluster offense after missing all of training camp as well as four regular season games. The talented receiver will not play this Sunday when the team hosts the Falcons and is expected to return later this month.

With a 3-1 record the 49ers have done quite well without Crabtree considering in addition to the loss of running back Frank Gore who is expected to miss Sunday’s game as well a sprained right ankle.

Crabtree, a two-time All-America and Big 12 selection finished his two-year Texas Tech career with 3,127 receiving yards, breaking the previous team record of 3,069 yards set by Wes Welker. Crabtree became just the seventh player in conference history to gain 3,000 career yards.

SPOILED PLAYERS DEMANDING BIG BUCKS IS NOT CUTE

By Felicia

Michael Crabtree has officially joined the 49ers. With the way San Francisco has been playing most fans haven’t even missed Crabtree; it’s been Out of Sight, Out of Mind but the 49er fans are thrilled that their top receiver has been signed.

Crabtree was quoted as saying that this experience was a humbling one for him but he is not humble. O.K., does that make sense to you? I squirm at thinking we may have another T.O. in the making, however with Mike Singletary as the head coach that probably won’t happen under his watch.

I make no secret of my disdain of players demanding ridiculous amounts of money before they even play their first NFL game. I’m old school, I believe in kids addressing adults by a sur name and that things shouldn't just be handed to you.

I also believe that throwing money at a 22 year-old who hasn’t proved his worth in the league sends the wrong message to kids.

Fuel-up with Raiders RB Darren McFadden

2009-10-01T10:52:00.000-07:00

Raiders RB Darren McFadden is teaching kids how to stay healthy through proper diet.

Photo by Miguel Blair

The National Dairy Council (NDC) and Dairy Council of California have huddled up with The Oakland Raiders to help students eat right and stay active with Fuel Up Like A Pro.

Fuel Up Like A Pro is a program of Fuel Up to Play 60, a nationwide wellness initiative sponsored by the NDC and NFL. The goal is to encourage kids to “fuel up” with more nutrient-rich foods — low-fat and fat-free dairy foods, fruits; vegetables; whole grains; and meat and beans, and motivate kids to be more active and play for 60 minutes a day.

“We are delighted to continue our relationship with The National Dairy Council and the Dairy Council of California and to continue our “Fuel Up Like A Pro” program, which encourages our young fans to maintain a healthy lifestyle,” said Raiders Chief Executive Amy Trask.

The program runs four weeks—October 26-November 20—and is open to all elementary and middle school students, grades K-8 in the Bay Area.

Participating students will receive a four-week tracking card to record their daily healthy eating and physical activity. Students will also receive a poster to hang up in their locker or at home to reinforce smart choices.

The poster highlights the food pyramid and features Oakland Raiders running back Darren McFadden. At the conclusion of the four-week program, students will return their completed tracking cards for the opportunity to win Raiders tickets and merchandise. One lucky school will receive a private party with McFadden.

McFadden participated in a kickoff party for a new program that The Oakland Raiders, in conjunction with the National Dairy Council and Dairy Council of California, will launch this spring.

McFadden, the Raiders’ first round selection in the 2008 NFL Draft, attended a “Milk Rally” last March at the team’s Alameda facility and encouraged exercise and well-balanced eating among children. McFadden also shared his thoughts on the importance of this initiative.

Log on to www.FuelUpLikeAPro.com to register for the program.

Story courtesy of the Oakland Raiders

49ers Announce Community Relations Events and Respect for Community as the Theme for the Month of October

2009-10-01T10:11:00.000-07:00

49ers head coach Mike Singletary signs autographs for Oakland youth at the team's practice facility in August for a community event hosted by player Allen Rossum - Photo by Felicia

Continuing their commitment to the community, the San Francisco 49ers have announced their October 2009 community relations events and theme: Respect for Community.

During the month of October, the team will focus on teaching youth how to show respect for their community through various events across the Bay Area.

“A strong community is a cornerstone of achievement,” said Joanne Pasternack, community relations director of the San Francisco 49ers. “Our community provides us with the resources and support we need to be successful. When respect for community is lacking in a young person’s life or they have not yet learned the importance of caring for the environment in which they live, they may not have the infrastructure they need to reach their full potential.”

The 49ers will participate in several community-related, hands-on volunteer projects in the Bay Area throughout the month. The featured event of the month will take place on Tuesday, October 6, 2009, when the team participates in Hometown Huddle at the Pacific Autism Center for Education (PACE).

In cooperation with the United Way, 49ers players will install a permanent PLAY 60 obstacle course that will enrich and enhance the learning environment for the students at PACE – all of whom are autistic.

The 49ers have worked in cooperation with PACE staff, and a specially trained architect, to ensure that each component of the PLAY 60 obstacle course is designed to enhance the motor skills and sensory perception of the youth. The obstacle course will include 10 distinct stations with a variety of activities including a balance beam and pull up station.

Additionally, the 49ers will be working to clean and upgrade the space where the obstacle course will be installed, including removing weeds, installing tan bark, and planting shrubs and flowers.

The October 6th event will take place from 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the Pacific Autism Center for Education at 1880 Pruneridge Avenue in Santa Clara.

Other events in the month of October will include:

On Tuesday, October 13th, the 49ers will participate in The Role Model Program: Charting a Path Towards Future Success. At this event, players will work with kids to complete a “Dare to Dream” activity, helping youth create ambitious career dreams through opportunity exposure and adult role modeling. The event will take place at Buchser Middle School located at 1111 Bellomy Stree in Santa Clara from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

The 49ers will be part of Habitat for Humanity: South Bay Sports Teams Building Together, where front office staff from each of the South Bay professional sports teams will work together on a Habitat build.

Teams participating in the October 20th event include: the 49ers, San Jose Giants, Earthquakes, FC Gold Pride and the San Jose Sharks. This event will also be held on Tuesday and will take place at the HFH Cory Drive Project at Cory Drive & San Luis Way in Morgan Hill from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Also, on October 20th, players’ and coaches’ wives will participate in Outfitting for Success: Women in Transition. At this event, the wives will work together to sort donated items and outfit women who have survived domestic violence. This event will take place at Career Closet located at 43 E. Gish Road #100 in San Jose from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

On Tuesday, October 27th, the 49ers will support the work of the Fresh Lifelines for Youth (FLY) Program by bringing PLAY 60 messaging to the at-risk youth who attend the New Valley Continuation High School.

Throughout the event, the players will be working with the students to demonstrate how they can channel their frustrations into sports, rather than through violence, while engaging in football drills with the kids and then designing posters to convey the messaging. The school is located at 1875 Lawrence Road in Santa Clara. The event will be held from 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Each time the 49ers do community service work with children, they educate the youth about the franchise’s award-winning RESPECT campaign. The RESPECT campaign teaches youth the necessity of showing respect for their schools, families and communities.

Story courtesy of the SF Niners

Warrior's Media Day

2009-09-29T19:02:00.000-07:00

Warriors #7 overall draft pick Stephen Curry

Guard Monta Ellis shares a laugh with Media

Forward Stephen Jackson

Photos courtesy of Z'ma Wyatt and William Passero

Sports In The Bay

Golden State Warrior's Media Day was on September 28th at the teams practice facility in downtown Oakland. Click here to listen to interviews with draft pick Stephen Curry, Corey Maggette, Andris Biedrins, and Stephen Jackson.

Audio courtesy of Ryan Leong

Pointing the finger

2009-09-29T17:20:00.000-07:00

Is it all Jamarcus Russell’s fault for the Raiders on-field woes? Or does the sign say it all?

Photo by M.S. Mcdaniel

By Felicia

It was an ugly win last week and an even uglier loss this week as the Oakland Raiders dropped to 1-2 at the hands of AFC arch nemesis Denver Sunday, 23-3.

A sign with the words ‘Russell Get it Done’ hung from the end zone opposite of the Black Hole, a clear sign that fans have clearly lost their patience with the third year quarterback, who went 12-of-21 for 61 yards and two interceptions.

“We have to play better. These fans deserve a better football team than we showed today,” said head coach Tom Cable.

The impatience of fans has become clear and they didn’t hesitate showering Russell with boos after the first interception. One fan left the game early because of what he felt was just all-around bad football.

“Jamarcus has an arm, but being able to throw sixty yards doesn’t help if you can’t throw a screen pass,” said Stefano Rensi who left before the end of the 3rd quarter, “I was hoping they’d put in Brad (back-up QB) Gradkowski.

Some say the curse of holding out after he was drafted has put Russell behind developmentally; others question his worth ethic and subtle way of deflecting his responsibilities when it comes to losses.

However, when things aren’t going the way people want them to, that is when the finger pointing starts. Although Russell struggles continue, the Raiders defense did allow 23-points to be puts on the scoreboard.

While many have their take on why Russell is not performing like others at his position such as last year’s NFL Rookie of the Year, Matt Ryan (Atlanta) or second-year former Cal QB Joe Flacco one thing is certain the problem doesn’t lie solely with Russell.

“It’s tough but as the defense it’s our job and we can’t go out there and worry about it,” said linebacker Thomas Howard on the Raiders poor field position.

Perhaps the road will be a better place for the Raiders to get a win, as they travel to Houston to face the Texans this Sunday.

Raiders honor Hispanic Heritage Month

2009-09-28T18:22:00.001-07:00

Ballet Folklorico Costa de Oro and the De Rompe y Raja, dance ensembles perform historical Mexican and Peruvian dances during the Raiders halftime in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Photos by M.S. McDaniel

By Felicia

There is no doubt that the Oakland Raiders fan base covers all sociological and economical backgrounds as well as every ethnic background.

This past Sunday was no different as the Silver and Black honored Hispanic heritage with pre-game festivities as well as a beautiful and elaborate half-time performance featuring traditional Mexican and Peruvian dances.

“We are pleased and proud to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month for the eighth consecutive year,” said Raiders Chief Executive, Amy Trask. “Our Hispanic Heritage Game is one manner in which we share with our global fan base our commitment to, and leadership in, multicultural initiatives.”

September is Hispanic Heritage Month. Raider fans attending Sunday's game were immediatelly embraced by the rich heritage from the time they entered the stadium with the sounds of Mariachi bands, and a beautiful rendition of the national anthem performed by the Alum Rock School Hispanic Youth Chorus.

Longtime supporters of Hispanic heritage, the Raiders were one of the first teams in the NFL to launch an English version of their team website in Spanish.

Special Computer delivery!

2009-09-23T22:18:00.000-07:00

From left: Mark Triplett of Urban Academy, Anthony Randolph, Al Attles and Gary Elliot of HP and students of the school pose with one of their new computers.

Photo by Miguel Blair

By Felicia

The Golden State Warriors organization has always been committed to their work in the community and that tradition continued recently when former Warriors coach Al Attles and current Warriors player, forward Anthony Randolph delivered free computers to an Oakland school.

More than 5,000 students from approximately 100 Title 1 middle schools were selected along with Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Miami and DC to participate in a competition that could win $80,000 in HP mobile digital technology and more for their school.

The NBA, Golden State Warriors and HP Digital Assist officially launched their education grant competition at the Oakland school last week and Randolph personally delivered the computers and printers to the school to help increase the awareness of schoolwork and better preparing students for class projects.

Urban Promise Academy also has the chance to win $80,000 in HP mobile digital classroom technology, NBA tickets and merchandise, visits from NBA stars, and other awards. The competition runs through Nov. 20th.

For more information go to www.warriors.com.

Oakland Tech High School hits the Ice!

2009-09-23T21:43:00.000-07:00

Photos by Miguel Blair

By Felicia

Students at Oakland Tech High School celebrated their first organized hockey team by participating in a youth hockey clinic last week at the Oakland Ice Center in downtown Oakland.

Approximately 60 kids participated in the clinic and those who stopped by to participate with the kids were San Jose Sharks and Oakland Bears players and Harbor House Ministries of Oakland.

"We've been unbelievably lucky to have so much support," said PE teacher Kelley
Haskins, who initiated the Oakland Tech program making it the first ever on ice physical education program in the Oakland Unified School District. "Our partnership with the Sharks organization has and will continue to be a key ingredient to our success."

The Oakland Ice Center will be the home base for the Oakland Tech hockey team as part of Sharks Ice High School Hockey League, which consists of teams from Oakland and San Jose.

In total over 600 children from OUSD schools and after school programs benefited from on-ice physical education classes with donated ice and instruction by Sharks Ice last school year.

Thousands of Oakland children have had the opportunity to participate in free activities at the rink since Sharks Ice took over management in October 2007.

For more information go to: www.oaklandice.com.

Raiders DB’s make a surprise visit to Hayward elementary school

2009-09-23T20:14:00.000-07:00

Final photo: Raiders cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha (top left) and teammate, safety Michael Huff (top right) pose with children and faculty at Treeview Elementary in Hayward.

Photos courtesy of Oakland Raiders

By Felicia

After a dramatic win and a delayed flight on their way home from Kansas City two of the Oakland Raiders still took the time out on their day off to spend with local kids.

Raiders Pro Bowl cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha and his on-field partner in crime, safety Michael Huff surprised nearly 200 kids at Treeview Elementary School in Hayward on Tuesday.

The purpose of the visit was a part of the Raiders Commitment to the Community. Along with the youth cable network, Nickelodeon, the Raiders and the popular kids network have paired together to promote a healthy lifestyle amongst youth.

“We just want to tell the kids to run around, get some exercise, and be out and about. I think this is a great cause,” said Huff who stayed active as a kid by playing with friends.

Students got hands-on demonstrations from Asomugha and Huff who participated in football related drills with the kids like throwing, catching passes and jumping hurdles.

“It feels kind of good to shake somebody’s hand and see a famous person,” said student Anthony Perez on meeting the popular defensive players.

Treeview principal William Derek Grasty did a great job of keeping the special surprise from his students and is appreciative of the players time with his students.

“We appreciate the players. It is very inspiring for the kids. They were hopeful, so when the two players showed up they were very excited,” said Grasty.

Asomugha talked about the importance of having a friend and teammate like Huff to work out with on a daily basis.

“Anytime you can have a friend around it makes things a lot easier, said Asomugha. All we are teaching is competition and healthy living.”

Known for his philanthropic work and commitment to youth throughout the Bay Area, Asomugha also stressed the importance of staying the course.

“You can slip and fall but you have to get back up. You have to keep going and that is what we are also trying to teach these kids.”

The Raiders hosted the junior training camp at the school in preparation for Nickelodeon’s upcoming Worldwide Day of Play (WWDP), which will take place this Saturday, September 26 from 12-3pm.

Established as a day focused entirely on active play, WWDP aligns with NFL PLAY 60, a campaign aimed at getting children active for at least 60 minutes a day.

More than 250,000 kids in more than six countries and in the United States are expected to take part in the worldwide event and the network will go dark from 12 to 3 p.m. ET. The Oakland Raiders’ kid’s website, www.raidersforkids.com, will also go dark during this time.

For more information about the event you can also go to the Raiders website at www.raiders.com.

My Arrowhead Experience

2009-09-20T23:27:00.000-07:00

By Felicia

Each stadium basically defines the city it represents. The Raiders have Oakland-Alameda Coliseum known for face-painted fans; colorful fans and laid back city a big contrast compared to the subdued KC fan.

From my hotel I could look across the freeway and see Arrowhead Stadium. On Sunday people from the hotel cheerfully made the walk over, to the stadium including me. Boy was I grateful I brought flat shoes. I don’t think I’ve walked like that since making the walk to junior high school from the 34 bus stop in downtown Oakland!

In the lobby the day before the game Chief fans were in the hotel mingling, drinking and mixing with other Raider fans; it’s like one big family. Some people have made the trip for 30-plus years and others were bringing their kids for the first time.

I met the cutest family with a gorgeous daughter named Hailey who reminded me so much of my niece Kaylea. She watched the exchanges between the Raiders and Chiefs fans with a sweet smile on her face.

It was the first year her parents brought she and her brother to a game and for the life of me I can’t remember the state their drove from but it was a drive. Poor child, I can only imagine what she was thinking.

On game day I walked through hills and valley’s (well not really but you get the picture) only to be told by the man in the Will Call booth that the Media Will Call was another couple hundred feet away from where I was.

Although I am supposed to be biased and I try my best, I felt like I was in a bad dream amongst all of that sea of red and yellow walking through the parking lot with my laptop stern across my shoulder, iPod in ear (so I couldn’t hear anyone talking crazy) and a growing case of throbbing feet.

Yea, I know I said I had on flat shoes but they still had a heel, plus I was dealing with puffy feet from the flight to K.C. For some reason I couldn’t seem to find a Silver and Black color in the house. Not until I offered to take a picture of two couples who were Raiders fans, in front of the stadium that were from Nebraska!

Arrowhead is definitely a building designed in the Jetsons heyday but it’s a classic and I like that. The people at the stadium were so friendly but the fans; they hate Oakland like Oakland hates New England. Any word of being from California they will automatically assumed you’re here for the Raiders and their faces change like a kid who was told he didn’t get his favorite toy for Christmas.

In the Press room I ran into, former NFL wide receiver Curtis Conway who I've known for years. The husband of Laila Ali he still looks like he can go for a bomb pass like his days in Chicago. Now the newbie to the radio announcing world is officially a member of the media and I sure teased him about it too. Congrats to he and Laila and their beautiful new son!

The Press box is night and day compared to Oakland. It is very quiet but they feed you constantly supplying us with big sub sandwiches, after the game. Sweet! After the game in Oakland all we do is eat popcorn.

Kansas City it is Middle America, a red state to the core. I went to a Marshalls Megastore after getting lost coming from the airport and found nothing. Is that humanly possible? Everything was for cold weather. Shoot, it was warm in KC; do you have anything besides a wool coat and shirts with big plaid fluffy scarfs?

The pre-game video montage at Arrowhead was full of country music stars, current and former players and the young and old. A beautiful horse rode onto the field (I don’t know why I couldn’t hear from the box) at halftime and they had three former Chiefs do a halftime performance. I thought they were the four tops! It looked like the Superbowl.

O.k., I will try to be nice but…the Chiefs cheerleaders. Hmm…let me say this, we are very spoiled in Oakland with the Raiderettes. I saw mid-sections and weave jobs Stevie Wonder could do a better job at. Sorry!

But the thing that caught my attention first was at the end of the nation anthem, I’m waiting to get teary from the flyover and the part where it says: And the home of the brave, instead I heard ‘And the home of the…'CHIEFS.’

The person sang the anthem the right way; however, the fans overpowered them and yelled it out in unison. I don’t know how I feel about that, we are serving the flag and people are dying daily for our freedom, for us to be changing it for some football game.

The second thing was this mascot. His name is KC Wolf but he is a grey thing that looks like a goofy rabbit. I had a conversation with someone with a big name in the NFL and they swore it looked like a rodent. How could a team be deemed as tough with a silly mascot running around and bouncing on someone dressed as a Raider player? Wooo, I’m soooo scared!

The third thing; the team name Chiefs. I am sensitive to political correctness especially those involving Native Americans. At one point in the game the fans started chanting like they were in a tribe and doing a tomahawk, which made me uncomfortable.

Outside of California it’s probably not a big deal but I guess they feel they have to keep something Chief-related since they changed their mascot from a Chief to a rat, I mean a rabbit, I mean wolf.

I’m clicking my heals three times like Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz, There’s no place like home, There’s no place like home……...

Raiders get first win of the season

2009-09-20T17:01:00.000-07:00

Photo: Melody from Oakland, Alise from San Jose and Andrea from Louisville are die-hard Raider fans who made the trip to Kansas City, Missouri to watch the Raiders take on the Chiefs. - Photo courtesy of Alise.

By Felicia

It was an ugly win but a win nonetheless.

For the Raiders it started to look like déjà vu in the final minutes of Sunday’s game but they would play spoiler this week at the Chiefs home opener at Arrowhead Stadium getting their first win of the season by the score of 13-10.

A hostile environment for anyone donning Silver and Black, fans at Arrowhead had been waiting a year and six days to seek revenge for their 23-8 loss to Oakland on September 14, 2008.

Ryan Succop would give the Chiefs the first score of the game with a 23-yard field goal. Oakland would remain scoreless until the second quarter with a 48-yard field goal by Sebastian Jankowski.

"The thing I am most proud of is winning the football game and it was a huge step the Oakland Raiders took today, having a chance to do something,” said Raiders head coach Tom Cable who saw his third-year quarterback Jamarcus Russell stay cool under pressure.

“All of a sudden Jamarcus Russell looks like he is in total control, he’s on target, he is on time, he got some decent protection and then all of a sudden we look like we are okay.”

Russell and his offense weren't okay. The first completion of the game wouldn't come until the 10:01 mark in the second quarter with a 7-yard reception by wide receiver Louis Murphy.

However, it would be what he did in the end that would matter. With 1:12 left in the game, Russell silenced the crowd with a pitch to running back Darren McFadden who ran in for the game winning 5-yard touchdown run.

“I knew that we left plays out there on our previous drives before so we had to come up with something in order to come out like we did,” said Russell after the game.

It was an uneventful game but the Raiders defense kept things interesting, namely safety Michael Huff who had two interceptions in the game; 3 in his career at Arrowhead.

“It has to go back to studying film. We put in extra work this week. Nnamdi (Asomugha) is a defensive leader and he held an extra meeting for the DBs that was an hour, two hours after everybody else,” said Huff who credits his recent play to time spent in the film room with the Pro Bowl cornerback.

The Raiders will go for their second win-in-a-row this weekend when they host another division rival, the Denver Broncos at 1:15 p.m.

GAME NOTES:
Sunday’s game marked the 101st match-up between the two division rivals with the Chiefs holding a 29-10 record overall versus the Raiders dating back to 1990.

Since 2001, 12 of the last 17 games in the Chiefs-Raiders series have been decided by 7-points or less.

*Stats courtesy of Chiefs PR

Photos by Miguel Blair

2009-09-16T19:46:00.000-07:00

by Felicia and Eddrick
Sports In The Bay

Miguel Blair took some phenomenal photos of the Raiders/Chargers game last Monday Night. He definitely has an eye for taking classy photos. Click here to see his game photos. To get more info on this talented photographer click here.

The Reality of the Business

2009-09-16T19:17:00.000-07:00

by Eddrick
Sports In The Bay

photo by Miguel Blair

What if your boss came to you one day and told you that you have to re-locate to another city to do your job? And that you have 72 hours to show up. So what if you have a mortgage, kids in school, and have to leave your family and friends. How would you feel? Well, that's exactly what happened to Richard Seymour, newly aquired D-Lineman for the Raiders.

Yes, he took his time getting here. And given all of the arrangements he had to make, it was understandable. Some fans, and members of the media, criticized him for this. But the criticism vanished after he recorded a sack, one of two during the game, on his very first drive as a Raider. He is a top flight NFL lineman who will add significant value to a pretty good defense. But again I ask you, how would you feel having to pack up and go on a moments notice?

"It was definitely tough, but we're professionals." he said after the game. "Once I made the committment to come here I put all that behind me and I wasn't concerned with all that transpired this week. I just said that I want to come out and play football. Once I step on the field that's my sanctuary. I can let go and just have fun. I was able to escape all the other things that I felt this week. I was definitely thinking about my family and I know that they were watching because I got a lot of text messages. It was disappointing the way we lost this football game because we had them. But I'm encouraged by the signs of the team that we have here. I really am."

The NFL is a business and these things happen all the time. But sometimes we forget that athletes are human like everybody else.

That Close

2009-09-16T18:36:00.000-07:00

By Eddrick
Sports In The Bay

Wow. This one was ugly. There is not a lot to say about last Monday night's 24-20 loss to the Chargers. But this photo taken right after the game pretty much summed up the night. For stretches, the offense, defense, and special teams played well, and there are some positives to build on (50% third down efficiency, 148 yds rushing, 4.6 yds per carry, 3 Sacks). "I thought the referees took the game away from us tonight," said McArthur Lane, former NFL great, "but we fought back and we kept fightin'. The defense played their ass off and the offense is starting to show a good spark, especially in the first half when we were running the ball well. I'm really proud of these guys."

Another positive sign was the electric atmosphere at the Coliseum. The main parking lot filled up early and throngs of Raider Fans clogged the entrances into the stadium. "I haven't heard it loud here like this in a long time," said Lane, "the fans were there supporting the team like they are supposed to. It was one of those good nights, but we came up short."

We'll see if they can bounce back against the rival KC Chiefs next Sunday at Arrowhead. If they don't, then the players will have to deal with my man in the photo when they get back home.

As I was leaving the field I tried to shed some positive light on the game. "It's alright, they played well." I said naively. "It ain't alright with me!" He thundered. Raider Nation was in full effect Monday night and WINNING is the only thing that matters.

NFL Frequency Coordinators Vital to Game Day Communications

2009-09-06T08:45:00.000-07:00

by Eddrick
Sports In The Bay

How many times have you anxiously waited for an NFL Referee to explain a call via his microphone? Or seen a quarterback cover the ear holes on his helmet so that he can hear the play being called from a coach? Most often than not the process is seamless for NFL fans, coaches, and players. However, chaos would reign if not for three guys sitting in the Press Box. Eric Weaver, Deverol Ross, and Bill Broooks are the NFL Frequency Coordinators at the Raiders home games. And they play a vital role in managing all of the wireless communications that affect the game on the field.

“Basically we look at all the frequencies and coordinate them,” said Brooks, “we try to protect the coach/quarterback system and some of the other systems. Any wireless device or wireless mic that comes in here is occupying some spectrum and a lot of times they occupy the same spectrum. So we need to sort them out and get the guys who haven’t previously coordinated to turn their mics off.”

I asked if they have the ability to jam or interrupt an unauthorized wireless transmission. “No, we can’t jam anybody,” said Weaver, “what we do if it comes down to it is we have NFL security remove the offending party. Everybody who brings in a wireless mic or stuff like that has got to coordinate it ahead of time. We keep a big spreadsheet (electronic) like this to track who’s on where (frequency) and make sure they’re not going to mess each other up.”

You might be surprised at the amount of radio logistics/operations involved in an NFL game these days. “You look down there on the sidelines and the coaches are all using wireless intercoms,” said Weaver, “that’s forty channels that have to be kept clean for that…there’s the coach to player system and that’s at least eight channels that have to be kept clean for that…anybody bringing in a wireless mic or system like that can step on top of somebody else’s wireless mic. You don’t want somebody else’s play by play coming in over the stadium speakers when a Referee goes to announce a call.”

The role of the frequency coordinators is so vital that the NFL has taken over their operations to make it seamless from stadium to stadium. “I’m actually the eldest member of the crew and I’ve been here longer than anybody, since 2001.” said Ross. “Over the last several years we’ve been underneath SBE (Society of Broadcast Engineers) as the coordinating group. As of last season, SBE and the NFL ended their relationship and as of this year all of us are now NFL employees.”

So the next time you hear a referee say “After further review…” keep the guys in blue in mind. You wouldn’t be able to hear the ref’s call without them.

NFL Legend MacArthur Lane Assesses Raider Loss

2009-09-01T20:33:00.000-07:00

By Eddrick
Sports In The Bay

Photo by Morris McDaniel

MacArthur Lane has seen just about everything there is to see in the NFL. Having played nine years as running back for the Chiefs, Packers, and Cardinals his knowledge of the game is beyond the PhD level. So we caught up with him right after the Raider’s 45-7 pre-season loss to the Saints to get his take on the situation.

“I’m very disappointed you know, we started off the first couple of series and fumbled and everything went down hill from there,” he said.

Week 3 is a pivotal game during the pre-season. The starters play most of the game and for the most part this is the closest thing to a full blown dress rehearsal for the regular season. So is it a good thing that this happened now?

“Yes,” he said, “it is a good thing because now the guys have a bad taste in their mouths. Now they have to get that bad taste out of their mouths by coming back and winning. Because this right here tells you something because even though it’s pre-season you don’t want to lose like this.”

When asked if he’d ever been in a situation like this the Oakland native said “Oh yes, I certainly have, but you got to be able to bounce back. That’s the name of the game. Every opportunity you get you have to make the best of it.”

The Raiders have a chance to bounce back this week against their former AFC West rivals the Seahawks. We shall see if they can overcome this setback and get on the right track in time for the home opener against the Chargers on Monday night September 14th.

Pre-season football - a dress rehearsal

2009-09-01T17:13:00.000-07:00

By Felicia
Sports in the Bay

Football is authentic and real. Chewing tobacco, brut-like strength, playing through multiple injuries, there is nothing phony about football. Period!

Real women wear black T-shirts, the old-school poster with Ronnie Lott in a pin-striped suit, Fedora on his head with the words – Designated Hitter.

I repeat there is nothing phony about football. Period!

Except preseason football.

“Whoever said that not playing in the preseason doesn’t affect them, that’s not true at all, unless they’ve been doing it for years, said 49er star linebacker Patrick Willis after his team’s 20-13 victory over Dallas. “For me, I still feel like I need to play in the preseason. I’m glad I was able to play this preseason.”

Good for Willis but I’m sure his fans would like to see him on the field for an extended period instead of a short series; however it is a huge risk. Maybe if he looked into the stands he’ll understand why people despise it or perhaps when the ‘suits’ start messing with his money.

Commissioner Roger Goodell is trying to cut the preseason in half and pad it up on the other end, the regular season. Hurry up Commish, people are getting impatient!

Unless a marquee name or a storied franchise comes into town, rest-assured most will be tuning in for the tape delay later that evening because to them, it is a waste of time.

Preseason could do a rookie good, after all the game goes at 100mph compared to college so if these spoiled brats who haven’t played a down get all this money thrown at them, they also need to be thrown to the wolves and get their feet wet. I know, I know, a risk of injury.

Luckily for the undefeated 49ers (who’ll play at San Diego on Friday at 7:00 p.m.), they have had a successful preseason but this means nothing when they open their season on the road against Arizona on Sunday, September 13th at 1:15 p.m.

Some could argue that preseason football is a dress rehearsal, the understudies if you will, for the stars of the show which is why star players have limited activity but it cannot be avoided because football is a physical sport. Case and point would be Raiders Pro Bowl cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha.

The team’s heart and soul, Asomugha is expected to miss at least two weeks with chipped bones in his left wrist due to an injury he sustained against the Saints, although he's not slated to miss the home opener.

Trying to see what pieces fit in the preseason puzzle, the Raiders were embarrassed at home last Saturday by the Saints 45-7. However, head coach Tom Cable said there are things they could build upon like their passing game.

“We’re going to take this loss and build on it,” said Cable. “We’ll stay the course, this is disappointing, this is embarrassing to me,” I see where we’re headed and I see where we’re going, I’m not going to let this be a setback. "

Now 1-2, the Raiders will finish their preseason against the Seattle Seahawks Thursday at 7:00 p.m. The second round of cuts for Oakland will take place this Saturday, September 5th.

Oakland will host their home opener on Monday, September 14th at 7:15 p.m. (EST) against division rivals San Diego Chargers on ESPN.

49ers Rossum and teammates give $30,000 to youth

2009-09-01T16:44:00.000-07:00

Courtesy of 49ers

On the way into the locker room following morning practice on Thursday, the 49ers were greeted by 15 youth from the City of Oakland’s Summer Lunch Program.

The youth were just a sampling of the nearly 2,500 children who received a generous $30,000 donation from over 20 of the 49ers players to provide the kids with healthy meals for more than three months.

Spearheaded by 49ers cornerback and return specialist Allen Rossum, the players teamed up with Revolution Foods, a Bay Area-based company that provides freshly made, high quality meals to high-need students and families in the community. Through the donation and the partnership with Revolution Foods, over 300 kids from the San Francisco Boys and Girls Club, 600 from Aim High and 1,500 from the City of Oakland’s Summer Lunch Program benefitted from the donation.

Rossum has always been an advocate for eating healthy and helping to fight the alarming numbers of child obesity in our society.

“It is something I have been doing since 2003, getting kids involved in active and healthy lifestyles involving exercise and eating healthy foods. When I came to San Francisco, I wanted to continue the legacy I was trying to leave after football. When I heard about Revolution Foods and what they were doing, I figured it would be a perfect fit for another organization I am involved in, Professional Athletes Council.”

Rossum co-founded the Professional Athletes Council (PAC) in 2006 with NBA star Jerry Stackhouse to use their position as role-models and influential community leaders to help reverse the rising rates of youth obesity.

In addition to Rossum, the entire 49ers secondary, including CB Nate Clements, CB Dre´ Bly, CB Marcus Hudson, CB Tarell Brown, S Mark Roman, S Curtis Taylor, S Reggie Smith, S Michael Lewis, CB Eric Green, CB Jahi Word-Daniels, CB Shawntae Spencer, S Dashon Goldson, CB Carlos Thomas, CB Terrail Lambert, along with WR Isaac Bruce, TE Vernon Davis, RB Frank Gore, RB Michael Robinson, LB Takeo Spikes, FB Moran Norris, WR Josh Morgan and TE Delanie Walker, combined forces for the donation to Revolution Foods to help the underprivileged youth in the Bay Area.

“Everyone deserves to have access to healthy food, and not everyone has access to healthy food. Not everyone knows how to find it or how to make it,” said Kirsten Tobey, Revolution Foods founder and chief operating officer. “We are so excited to get Allen and everyone else here involved in making sure all these kids can have healthy foods for the summer.”

The youth who attended the 49ers practice facility were given the opportunity to catch the end of practice, sign autographs and take pictures with the entire team and Head Coach Mike Singletary. Following autographs, the youth received special treat with presentations from Rossum, members of each organization and the opportunity to participate in a 10 minute workout session led by Rossum.

Along with the healthy meals all summer, as part of the donation and through the partnership with PAC and the 49ers, the San Francisco Boys and Girls Club will have the funding to implement a program called “Instant Recess”, putting recess back into the daily schedule in the Fall.

As an added incentive for the youth to remain active and healthy in the fall, the 49ers and PAC are holding a competition between the San Francisco Boys and Girls Club programs to create the best active recess program. The winners of the competition will be rewarded with an appearance from the players during the 2009 season and given the opportunity to participate in Instant Recess with some of their favorite professional athletes.

JR. JAM AUDITIONS!!!!!

2009-08-31T10:48:00.000-07:00

Is your child a natural performer? Does he/she have what it takes to command the attention of an arena full of people?

If your child possesses these gifts along with a strong dance background than the Golden State Warriors Jr. Jam Squad is for you!

Auditions will be held on Saturday, September 12th at ClubSport in San Ramon. Registration begins at 5:00pm.

AUDITION REQUIREMENTS:

Outgoing, fun and energetic kids ages 5-13 (must be 5 years of age by June 1, 2009) escorted by parents or guardian only!

Bring I.D. and wear dance attire (i.e. comfortable, age-appropriate clothing that is easy to dance in)

Tennis shoes with non-marking soles are required. Knee pads are recommended.

Please bring snacks and beverages to help sustain your body for the audition process.

Parents are not permitted in the gym during the audition process.

AUDITION INFO & SCHEDULE:

5:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. - Registration
5:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. - Introduction
6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. - Learn Audition Routine
7:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. - Run Audition In Groups
7:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. - Round 1 Team Selections
8:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. - 2nd Round Of Audition
8:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. - Round 2 Team Selections
9:00 p.m. - Final Team Selection

*Times may vary depending on the number of people auditioning.

Location: ClubSport of San Ramon 350 Bollinger Canyon Lane San Ramon, CA 94582

Phone: 925-735-8500 http://www.clubsportsr.com/.

**Applications will also be accepted on-site the day of auditions.

For more information, please call 510-985-5705 or e-mail Susan Hovey at skhovey@gs-warriors.com.

Skyline product Smith, retires from NFL

2009-08-31T10:24:00.000-07:00

By Felicia
Sports in the Bay

He started his prep career wearing the Skyline Titan colors of red and white he would end his professional career doing so.

After two Super bowl rings, one Pro Bowl visit and nine years in the league, the San Francisco 49ers recently announced that newly acquired tackle Marvel Smith (#71) has made the decision to retire.

Smith, an Oakland native who spent his whole career with the Pittsburg Steelers, was signed as a free agent by the 49ers this past spring and has battled back injuries for the later part of his career.

“I would like to thank Marvel for his service to the 49ers organization over the last several months,” said head coach Mike Singletary. “Marvel and I have spoken, and I know that this was not a decision he took lightly. We appreciate that he came to us when he did with this decision, and wish him well in the next chapter of his life.”

A product of Skyline High in Oakland, Smith lettered in football and was a two-time All-City selection, earning a Division I-A scholarship to Arizona State University in 1995 becoming the school’s first lineman to receive a Division I-A scholarship.

Pittsburgh’s second round pick in the 2000 NFL Draft, Smith, 31, had one Pro Bowl selection (2004) and started 108 of the 111 regular season games that he appeared in with the Steelers, where he played his entire career prior to signing with San Francisco in March.

Sports in the Bay wishes Smith all the best as he enters the second chapter of his life!

Raiders & Niners Prepare for 2009 Battle of the Bay

2009-08-20T18:18:00.000-07:00

By Felicia and Eddrick

Sports in the Bay

No doubt, the two cross town rival NFL teams are just that, rivals. The fans are different, on one side of the bay you’ve got authentic food and on the other side you’ve got cheese and wine.

The Niners traveled to beautiful Napa to practice with the Raiders on Tuesday and Wednesday in preparation for this Saturday evenings Battle of the Bay.

This Saturday will mark the ninth year that the Raiders and Niners have faced one another during pre-season, flip-flopping victories for the past seven years with Oakland holding a 19-17 advantage. If Oakland is victorious this week, they will have two consecutive wins.

Tom Cable and Mike Singletary will have their first head coaching experiences in the historical Battle of the Bay, which will begin at 5:15pm at Candlestick Park.

For sights and sounds from their afternoon practice session click here:

Raiderette Calendar Release Party

2009-08-14T12:37:00.000-07:00

By Felicia

Sports In The Bay

We got the chance to speak with Karen Kovac, the director of the Oakland Raiderettes who have their annual calendar release party coming up.

“We are looking forward to our release of our 2010 swimsuit calendar of our lovely Raiderettes,” Kovac told Sports in the Bay. “The event will take place Monday, August 24^th at The Den right next to the Fox Theatre in downtown Oakland. We are so proud to be a part of the revitalization.”

A limited number of tickets will go on sale next week and be a part of the VIP group to Raiders.com click on their home page and everything you need his there. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Tickets for Kids program, a program that offers free Raider tickets to underprivileged children.

Kovac encourages all who would to attend to get their tickets ASAP as their will be a limited number. Go to http://www.raiders.com/ for more information.

Raider Fans Represent at First Pre-Season Game

2009-08-14T12:21:00.000-07:00

By Felicia and Eddrick

Sports In The Bay

The Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum may have had their fair share of Cowboy fans at their pre-season home opener Thursday night, however; they could never be more passionate and dedicated as the Raider fan. Just ask “Moe” and “Mike.” The two friends and Oakland residents got hooked up with field passes prior to the game and got to watch team warm-ups, the Raiderettes and the player introductions.

“We’re gonna take it all the way this year,” said Moe but quickly retracted his statement. “ Were gonna take it to the playoffs, that’s all I gotta say.”

His partner in crime wasn’t as hesitant, “We’re gonna take it all the way,” says Mike, expounding briefly on the Raiders top draft pick, wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey. “He’s the man.”

Rob Bledsoe, member of World Wide Fans in Black, an online booster club has big expectations for this upcoming season. “Were expecting at least eight wins this year, it’ll be nice to get more wins and get back to a respectable record, you know the last six seasons have been hard but as a diehard Raider fan our motto is: Win, lose or tie, Raider fan till I die.”

On the offense side of things Bledsoe is excited about the edition of Lorenzo O’Neal at the fullback position which he feels with his experience and leadership that we’ll be able to really push our running game to the next level with McFadden, Bush and Fargas.

“We’re also excited about the way we finished the season at 3-3,” noting that five head coaches were fired after Oakland beat them.

Bledsoe’s worldwide Internet booster club has united Raiders fans from all over the world for the past 12 years. This year the booster club will be bringing back Raider legends like Kenny Stabler, as well as holding parties in the West Side Club, a tour of the team’s facility in Alameda, raffles and autographs as well as guest speakers. “The goal is to put fans in the seat, to unite fans from all over the world.”

It’s free to join World Wide Fans in Black and if you’re down on your luck, someone will even sponsor you and foot the $30 yearly membership fee. The only recognized booster club that is Internet based, in the six years he’s been involved Bledsoe has watch the fan base grow. “We gather fans from all over the world and each year we get bigger and bigger,” said Bledsoe putting truth to “Once You Go Black, You Never Go Back!”

For more information about their site go to http://www.fansinblack.com/.

Raider's Pre-Season Debut

2009-08-14T07:14:00.001-07:00

Sights and sounds from the Raiders pre-season debut!

Click here!

Dixon Enters Sonoma in Tight Three-Way

2009-08-11T02:08:00.000-07:00

SONOMA, Calif. (Aug. 10, 2009) – Scott Dixon is riding a wave of success heading into the Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma, Aug. 21-23, but it’s anyone’s guess who will come out on top at Infineon Raceway.

Dixon (Target Chip Ganassi Racing) posted his fourth win of the season and 20th of his career at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course this past weekend, vaulting him to first in the IndyCar Series standings, just three points ahead of Team Penske’s Ryan Briscoe (460-457) and 20 over teammate Dario Franchitti (440).

The momentum bodes well for Dixon, who won at Infineon Raceway in 2007 and has started no worse than ninth in four starts in the Sonoma Valley. He has an average finish of sixth place at Infineon Raceway and he is the defending IndyCar Series champion.

“It’s the IndyCar Series so, obviously, it will come down to the wire and it’s going to be tough,” said Dixon, who now owns the IndyCar Series record for career wins (20), surpassing Sam Hornish Jr. “It’s been a strange season in the fact that it doesn’t seem like anybody really wants to lead the championship. There’s been some flopping back and forth between myself and Dario and Ryan and TK (Tony Kanaan) so it’s been quite interesting.”

Briscoe and Franchitti have also enjoyed success in Sonoma Valley, although neither has reached the Wine Country Winner’s Circle. Briscoe started on the pole in 2005 and placed second last year to teammate Helio Castroneves. Franchitti, meanwhile, was third in 2007 and second in 2006. He also started on the pole in 2007.

“I'm really excited to be in the championship," Briscoe said. "It's been a fantastic year. It's definitely intense and can get frustrating at times. You look back on races, and for me it's ones like Richmond where I only got 12 points. If I could have gotten top 5 or something, what the difference could be. But that's where you just need to keep looking ahead, keep your head down and you've got to finish these races and finish at the front and just stay focused.”

With only four races remaining, a strong finish in Sonoma could play a crucial role in determining the 2009 series champion. Castroneves, the 2008 Infineon Raceway winner, is currently fourth in points (359), while Danica Patrick (Andretti Green Racing) is fifth (321). Tony Kanaan (Andretti Green Racing) claimed the inaugural victory in Sonoma in 2005.

For more information or to purchase tickets for the Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma, call 800-870-RACE or visit www.infineonraceway.com.

Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma Weekend

WHAT: Big O Tires Racing Season Presents: Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma

WHEN: Aug. 21-23

CIRCUIT: 12-turn road course

2008 POLE WINNER: Helio Castroneves (Team Penske)

2008 WINNER: Helio Castroneves (Team Penske)

NOTABLE: The weekend will also feature Formula DRIFT, as well as the Firestone Indy Lights Series, featuring Sausalito native J.R. Hildebrand.

TICKETS: $10-$65 single day/$65-$85 weekend; parking is FREE and kids 12 and under are FREE (Saturday only). Garage passes are available for purchase.

INFORMATION: 800-870-RACE or www.infineonraceway.com/indy.

Root Beer and Rickey

2009-08-10T23:01:00.000-07:00

By Felicia
Sports In The Bay

We used to immolate his batting stance, squatting down real low with our imaginative bat held high, twitching our fingers as we pretended to steal a base at the Not a Through Street sign that we used as first base and the tall wooden telephone pole that we used as second on our block in East Oakland.

That is the type of effect that Rickey Henderson and the Oakland A’s had on our close knit community back in the day.

It would only be fitting that on the 10th anniversary of the Oakland Athletics A’s MUG Root Beer Float Day last week, Henderson would also be present, signing autographs as the newly inducted member of the 2009 Baseball Hall of Fame.

This year the Oakland A’s raised over $25,000 with all proceeds benefiting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Since 2003, the A’s have raised over $270,000 for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation through MUG Root Beer Float Day.

A’s players, coaches, broadcasters and wives, along with local radio, television personalities and newspaper reporters served root beer floats in the East Side Club and the proceeds were raised through the sale of root beer floats, tips given in exchange for autographs and pictures with the celebrity scoopers, the sale of autographed mugs and a silent auction of sports memorabilia.

According to healthscout.com 35 American children are diagnosed with diabetes each day. Today, you rarely find children playing in the neighborhood swinging a stick used for a bat or a tennis ball used for a baseball and while it is uncertain what causes diabetes it is usually hereditary and a proper diet and exercise are key components in management.

Kids like Archie Lopez of Santa Cruz remain active by playing baseball. Playing since the age of five, the 12 year old made the winding drive up from the seaside city to watch the A’s and the Texas Rangers and to join the group of several hundred who stood in line to meet Henderson.

“I saw him on TV and wanted to meet him since he was just inducted into the Hall of Fame,” said Lopez who made the trip with his dad, brother and cousin.

Stephanie Price and Eva Randall of Oakland stood in line for about an hour and reminisced about their favorite Henderson moments. “I remember when he stole third and I was there when he broke the record,” said Randall.

An Oakland native who attended Oakland Technical High School Henderson was drafted by the A’s in 1979. When he retired in 2003 he would finish his career with four stints with the A’s and having played for nine other teams.

Henderson would also leave the game as one of the top lead-off hitters in the history of the game and he still holds the single season record for stolen bases
(100) in 1982.

Elizabeth Meneweather brought her 11 year old grandson with her, who she’s been bringing to A’s games since he was two months old. “We’re baseball buddies,” she said with a proud smile.

The A’s begin their nine-game home stand August 14th against the Chicago White Sox, New York Yankees and Detroit Tigers. Go to www.oaklandathletics.com for more information.

Raider Nation Celebration - Fans support Silver and Black in a big way

2009-08-10T21:37:00.000-07:00

By Felicia
Sports In The Bay

Every year the Oakland Raiders hold their annual Raider Nation Celebration at the Oakland Coliseum and each year the fans come out in a big way, this year was no different.

“We’re going to be a helluva football team this year,” said head coach Tom Cable who will be heading into his first full season as the head coach after taking over for Lane Kiffin late last season. “It’s time to give something back to you.”

For those who doubt what Cable just guaranteed the diehard Raider fans feel differently showing their support in numbers, with this year’s attendance at nearly 10,000.

Those in attendance were treated to how the Silver and Black conduct their work out drills and practices and interactive Kids Zone.

Celebrating their 50th season of Raiders football, a selected number of fans were treated to an autograph session with past and present Raider players and all fans in attendance were watched a video montage of Raider memories on the stadium Jumbotron.

Oakland native and first-year season ticket holder Jr. Ewing has never missed a Raider Nation Celebration. “I enjoyed watching the pre-game exercise practices, said Ewing. “I was most impressed by Darrius Heyward-Bey,” said the die-hard Raider fan. “I love those cats.”

Footballs Fabulous Females, The Raiderettes, one of the premier cheerleading teams in the NFL made their first debut as a team, doing several high energy dance routines.

The Oakland Raiders will be playing their first pre-season game this Thursday when they host the Dallas Cowboys at 7:00pm.

Let's Get It Started!

2009-08-08T20:39:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our blog. Here is a taste of what you can expect every time you log on. Felicia and Eddrick have the inside track on what's hot in Bay Area sports. Exclusive interviews, awesome photos, and unique perspectives are the order of the day. Are you ready? Good. Click here to listen to Bay Area sports legends share their thoughts on President Barack Obama. http://www.eddrick.net/sportsinthebay.html