Three influential women who have succeeded in empowering young girls and women through sports in their respective communities were recognized for their achievements Friday as the 2016 Toyota Everyday Heroes at espnW: Women + Sports Summit.Courtney Payne-Taylors Girls Riders Organization in Indiana inspires, educates and supports girls through action sports. Tracy Pointers Golfers Recognizing Opportunities for Women, Inc. (GROW) and GROW Girl organizations teach multicultural women and girls the game of golf and how to use the sport to tackle their personal aspirations and goals in Nashville, Tennessee. Beth Devines Philly Girls in Motion brings sports programs, fitness and nutrition to young girls.We spoke to this years recipients about the impact of receiving the award, which includes a $10,000 grant, challenges theyve faced as leaders of their organizations and the life lessons they hope to relay to the young girls in their programs.espnW: How does it feel to receive this award and be recognized for the work your organization is doing in your respective communities? Tracy Pointer:?It is definitely an honor. Its just a matter of doing what I do and what I love. Its not doing it for the recognition, but doing it because Im purposed to do it. God put me on this earth to do this. Im taking my life lesson and Im not being selfish with it and sharing it with others. So that in and of itself means so much to me and it gives me the inspiration to do even more.Courtney Payne-Taylor: What we do at GROW is help prove to the women, to the girls, that they matter and no matter what their goal is, that its worth it -- even when theyre going through the hard times. We want to provide support for them to be able to reach those goals, and I think this award kind of did those two things to me and showed me that this matters and it is worth it and to keep going. The grant is a massive opportunity for us to expand what we are doing for the girls.Beth Devine: Receiving this award kind of validates things in a space where its very easy to doubt. I think that having somebody say Yeah keep going in a matter thats so big for small organizations like ours, thats a big deal. The validation is huge, and it turns my brain around to say you got to get this done because it is worth it for every single child that comes through the organization.espnW: What has been the biggest challenge when trying to achieve the goals that you set for your organization? Pointer: Sometimes the biggest challenge lays in being able to balance it all. I work professionally outside of the home. Of course I run my non-profit organization, Im married, I have a family, I have two children, so that would be the biggest challenge. I dont think Ive had the challenges in terms of getting the buy-in or getting the support or getting people to realize the purpose of our organization.Payne-Taylor: A challenge for us in the action sports world is standing next to all these sports that have had so much strength for so long. One challenge for us has been helping the companies and the parents and the people that could support us understand that skateboarding can be a beautiful thing for the girls, and helping bring these new sports into the mindsets of this bigger world. We all have challenges and thats the beauty of doing what we do.Devine: I think the challenge is making the commitment to the growth. When you decide to stop being a part-time organization, the jump that it takes is terrifying and is also very difficult. The challenge is finding the courage and the strength and the resources to say were going to make a go at this. Once it happens, it happens, but getting over that hump is scary.espnW: Why is it important to focus on young girls and women as the target demographic for your organization? Pointer: The focus is really just targeting the next generation. We have to approach them now in order to help them to grow into the leaders of tomorrow. Success breeds success. It really lays in getting others to understand the message youre conveying and that message is empowering young girls and college students to learn through the game of golf, learn everyday life lessons through a sport that everyone may not be exposed to. Im giving them that opportunity.Payne-Taylor: Sport and athleticism can change many lives. The sport that is for one girl is not necessarily the sport that will work for other girls. We just want to give girls as many options as we can to find their magic in themselves.Devine: What we learned early when we were building this out was that people in the city of Philadelphia said, I like that you are going to be focusing on girls. Ive focused on girls because thats all Ive ever worked with, because I grew up in sports and taught sports to girls. When you look at who gets time last in the arena of sports, its the girls. Girls get the last slot in the gym because of the adults and boys in the city of Philadelphia. Access and opportunity is what we wanted to focus on because girls werent getting access to much sports at all, let alone specialty sports. You can find a basketball team but probably not a lacrosse team, so lets bring these sports to kids.espnW: Outside of teaching sports, what life lessons to do you hope to teach the participants in your respective organizations? Pointer: Self-respect, learning etiquette and honor, just really being yourself. If you can do that, then you can go anywhere. Most people just dont realize that being yourself and being an authentic you is what you should do. We see someone on TV and we want to be like that person ... thats not how we should operate. Be authentic, be yourself.Devine: Officially we focus on healthy habits, self-esteem and feeling good about yourself. I think naturally what comes with it is achievement and building confidence because all of a sudden you can do a skill. We use lacrosse a lot ... lacrosse is a hard sport to learn as a child so just picking up those skills builds that confidence. Our coaches start and end with a simple lesson like be yourself tonight or do what you do out here. I think its inherent to focus on everything that comes with sport naturally, but also we plug in some other stuff to make it a more rounded program.Payne-Taylor: I think what its about is girls of all ages are beautiful beings of potential. They all have a gift they can bring to this world. Through the sports and through the organization we want to help them see that magic in themselves then be able to bring that gift. Its learning that the achievements that you make in skateboarding, in a trick, should really teach you that your capability is not just in the sport that youre realizing I can do this, but its in the entire world. In anything that you dream and anything that you wish, youre capable of doing it. Youre worth it, its important that youre on this stage to bring it -- you are not alone. Abby Smith Jersey .Y. - Rob Manfred was promoted Monday to Major League Baseballs chief operating officer, which may make him a candidate to succeed Bud Selig as commissioner. Meghan Klingenberg Jersey . On Saturday night, the normally free throw-challenged centre did just that. Howard scored 18 of his 25 points in the fourth quarter, including 13 of 19 free throws in a 2 1/2-minute stretch, and the Houston Rockets beat the Denver Nuggets 122-111. http://www.officialsocceruswntshop.com/blank-usa-jersey/ . Roman Josi had a goal and an assist to lead the Predators to a 4-1 victory over the Dallas Stars on Monday night. Morgan Brian Jersey . - Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco is not a fan of his teams use of

MARNE, Mich. -- Dalton Sargeant won at Berlin Raceway on Saturday night for his first ARCA Racing Series victory, taking advantage of late contact between leader Josh Williams and Chase Briscoe.The 18-year-old Sargeant, from Boca Raton, Florida, easily held off Briscoe -- his car damaged on the left front after the run-in with Williams -- to end the Indiana drivers winning streak at four races.Driving the No. 55 Toyota Racing Development Toyota for Venturini Motorsports, Sargeant pulled away on the final restart in the 200-lap race on the 0.48-mile paved oval.The 21-year-old Briscoe was coming consecutive victories at Winchester, Iowa, Clermont and Pocono. The points leader was racing Williams for the lead when they made contact going through the first two turns and ended up in the outside grass on the backstretch, with Williams car tangled up in foam and tire barriers.Matt Kurzejewski was third, followed by Bret Holmes, A.J. Fike, Clair Zimmerman, Tom Hessert, Thomas Praytor and Ed Pompa. Williams was 10th, 10 laps down. Dikembe Mutombo Jersey . Self was acquired from the Buffalo Bandits in a trade for Alex Hill midway through last season, and made his debut in Rochester on March 16, 2013. Jamal Murray Nuggets Jersey . -- Five former Kansas City Chiefs players who were on the team between 1987 and 1993 filed a lawsuit Tuesday claiming the team hid and even lied about the risks of head injuries during that time period when there was no collective bargaining agreement in place in the NFL. http://www.nuggetsproshop.com/Thomas-Welsh-Nuggets-Jersey/ . Miller finished in two minutes, 6.09 seconds, one day before the first medal race on the Alpine schedule. The 36-year-old American also turned in the top time in Thursdays opening training session. Paul Millsap Nuggets Jersey . In the lead up - which seemed to begin the moment Mike Geiger blew the whistle in Houston last Thursday night - the Impact rumour mill went into overdrive. The speculation went into meltdown mode, of the golden nugget variety. Tyler Lydon Jersey . Galatasaray said in a statement on its website Monday that Mancini signed a three-year contract and will be paid 3.5 million euros for the upcoming season, with his salary upped to 4. ST. PAUL, Minn. -- Johan Larsson has developed a knack for delivering when the Buffalo Sabres are in need of a goal.Larsson had a third-period score in his return to Minnesota and Robin Lehner made 27 saves, lifting Buffalo to a 2-1 win against the Wild on Tuesday night.A 2010 second-round pick by Minnesota, Larsson has seven game-winning goals among his 18 career tallies, and all seven in 83 games the past two seasons for the Sabres.It just happens, Larsson said. Fortunately, Im out there and a little bit of luck, I guess.Ryan OReilly added his fourth goal for Buffalo, which has won three straight.Larsson scored his second of the season past goaltender Devan Dubnyk with just over six minutes left. Brian Gionta centered a puck that went off the stick of Minnesota forward Mikael Granlund and deflected off the shaft of Larssons stick.The Swedish forward played one career game for the Wild in 2013 before being traded for Jason Pominville.He was a guy who scored a lot for us at the end of last season and did have a knack for getting the big goals and getting the game-winning goal, Sabres coach Dan Bylsma said. Tonight were trying to scratch out some kind of offense in the third period, trying to push forward in this building and get the win. Theres nothing really fancy about him coming up big.Dubnyk stopped 22 shots but had his individual scoreless streak end at 183:16. Granlund scored his second goal for Minnesota, which had won three in a row and was unbeaten in four previous home games.It was frustrating, Wild coach Bruce Boudreau said. Sometimes its a frustrating team. It can play so good one period and not show up for the (next) period. Tonight, we didnt show up in the first period.Dubnyks streak ended just three shots into thhe game.dddddddddddd Dubnyk stopped Rasmus Ristolainens point shot, but OReilly had the rebound deflect off his skate directly to his stick for an easy score.Im a big fan of wins and those shutouts are bonus, Dubnyk said. Its disappointing to have it end on a bounce like that, but a lot of fortunate bounces have to happen to get three in a row. So, well let that one go and get ready for Saturday. Granlund tied it on the games first power play. With Josh Gorges off for slashing and breaking Granlunds stick, Pominville brought the puck into the offensive zone and dumped to Eric Staal.Staals shot bounced to Granlund, who was streaking in. Granlunds speed allowed him to get past a sprawling Lehner for the goal.I thought we came out hard today, Lehner said. They came back and pushed back in the second period, and got some momentum going. But I think we held the fort together and I think thats a very solid third period.Game notes Buffalo D Zach Bogosian didnt play the final two periods and was announced out with a knee injury. ... Minnesotas franchise-record scoreless streak was snapped at 184:59. ... Sabres F Hudson Fasching, a Minnesota native, missed the game with a groin injury. The team recalled Justin Bailey from Rochester of the American Hockey League. ... Staal has a five-game point streak, his longest since Jan. 2014. He has one goal and four assists in that span. ... The road team has won 15 of the 20 games in the series between the two teams, including the past five.UP NEXT:Sabres: Return home against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Thursday.Wild: After three days off, they play Saturday at Colorado. ' ' '

At the support role, we have Core JJ, the AD carry-turned-star support. Core JJ, a former AD carry earlier this year before becoming a full-fledged support this summer, has been the surprise MVP of the tournament, playing in 7 games and winning all 7 in Samsungs dominant run to the final four.H2ks Vander will have his hands full keeping up with the roaming habits of Core who enjoys showing up on the map where his opponents least expect him to show his face. Vander is a better in-lane support than Core JJ, though, and if the H2k Gaming bot-lane can keep the Samsung duo pinned to their respective turret, it will stop any of Core JJs shenanigans. Stanley NSoki Jersey . Paul Pierce couldnt believe he missed at the end. Young scored a season-high 26 points to spark a huge effort from the leagues most productive bench, and Los Angeles beat the Brooklyn Nets 99-94 on Wednesday night after blowing a 27-point lead. Loic Mbe Soh Paris Saint-Germain Jersey . Tomas Berdych and Radek Stepanek defeated Nenad Zimonjic and Ilija Bozoljac 6-2, 6-4, 7-6 (4) on the indoor hard-court at Belgrade Arena. The victory improved the Czech pairs impressive cup doubles record to 14-1. http://www.parissaintgermainfcstore.com/Women-Sebastien-Cibois-Paris-Saint-Germain-Jersey/ . -- Jakob Silfverberg is making himself right at home with the Anaheim Ducks, scoring four goals in his first four games. Kevin Trapp Jersey . Murray beat Sam Querrey 7-6 (5), 6-7 (3), 6-1, 6-3 to clinch Britains opening-round victory against the United States on Sunday at Petco Park. "Im proud of the way Im playing just now, because I had to do a lot of work to get back to where I want to be," Murray said after celebrating with his teammates on the red clay court in a temporary stadium in left field of the downtown home of baseballs San Diego Padres. Gianluigi Buffon Jersey . Collaros, 25, was solid last season, posting a 5-2 record as the starter while incumbent Ricky Ray was injured. Collaros also started Torontos 23-20 regular-season finale loss to Montreal — Ray didnt dress because the Argos had already clinched first in the East Division — but was one of three quarterbacks to play that day. CHICAGO -- Cubs manager Joe Maddon had a plan for facing Yu Darvish in the Texas stars return from the disabled list: load up on lefties and wait him out.It worked, neutralizing Darvishs nasty slider and his nine strikeouts.Darvish couldnt get through the fifth inning and the lefty-hitting Anthony Rizzos two-run double helped lead Chicago past the Rangers 3-1 on Saturday.A guy like that, if you just let him have his way, hell be sitting on 70 (pitches) in the sixth inning, hes going to beat you up, Maddon said. His stuff is that good.In his first start since June 8 because of shoulder pain, Darvish (2-1) reached 98 mph and allowed only two runs and two hits. But the Japanese right-hander lasted just 4 1/3 innings thanks to four walks and shoddy defense.I was throwing the ball well, Darvish said through an interpreter while declaring himself pain-free. It was a little different feeling from the last rehab outing in a good way.Jason Hammel (8-5) struck out seven in six innings for the Cubs, who won their second straight in the interleague matchup of division leaders.Hector Rondon pitched a perfect ninth to complete the three-hitter for his 15th save.Darvish, a three-time All-Star, was making his fourth start since missing all of 2015 following Tommy John surgery.Darvish fanned Kris Bryant twice, including on a slider in the third. Seven of Darvishs strikeouts came on the slider that was dipping out of the strike zone.(Kris Bryant) has really not been in chase mode, and when hes chasing the slider you know how good it actually is, Maddon said. He was all of that today.Darvish was lifted after 90 pitches when second baseman Rougned Odor dropped what could have been an inning-ending double play.Darvish hurt himself when he walked Miguel Montero, who entered hitting .201, to lead off the third. Then Rizzos two-out double to right extended his hitting streak to 11 games and put the Cubs ahead to stay.I threw that slider where I wanted it to be and I struck him out on the previous at-bat, Darvish said. Got to tip my hat to him.Hammel allowed three hits in his first victory since June 4. Matt Szczur pinch--hit for the right-hander in the sixth and hit an RBI single off Shawn Tolleson.dddddddddddd It was Szczurs 10th pinch hit and second for an RBI in as many days.Texas lone run in the game -- and the series -- came in odd fashion in the second.Ryan Rua singled and scored from second on Elvis Andrus infield single after the first baseman Rizzo threw wildly to the plate.Texas has dropped a season high-tying four straight and nine of 11.Weve got to find a way of putting a good combination of a solid start and solid offense on the board, Texas manager Jeff Banister said, and play good defense.TRAINERS ROOMRangers: RF Shin-Soo Choo (back) was out of the lineup for a second straight day, but an MRI showed no major issues. ... RHP Kyle Lohse (oblique) threw a bullpen session before the game. Hes scheduled to start Tuesday against the Angels. ... RHP Jose Leclerc was optioned to Triple-A Round Rock to make room for Darvish.Cubs: CF Dexter Fowler (hamstring) will remain in Chicago through the weekend before a planned minor league rehab assignment.POTATO CHIP DIETHammel, who had to leave his last start early with cramping in his thumb, had no issues this time. The reason: potato chips.(The doctor) said if cramps are a chronic thing, potato chips, because they have a lot of potassium. And obviously the sea salt helps retain water, said Hammel, who said he ate some between innings.Potato chip prescription or PCP is what Im going to go with, he added.DARVISH AT THE DISHDarvish batted for the first time since 2014 and went up left-handed. He didnt swing while striking out on three pitches in the third. Darvish batted right-handed in the past.Hitting right-handed put more stress on my right shoulder, right elbow, Darvish said.UP NEXTTexas LHP Cole Hamels (9-2, 3.21 ERA) on Sunday makes his first start at Wrigley Field since throwing a no-hitter against the Cubs last July. It came in his final start for Philadelphia. Cubs RHP John Lackey (7-5, 3.70) is winless in his last four starts. ' ' '

im with head coach Dallas Eakins

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Gary Kubiak trusts Trevor Siemian has both the physical toughness and the mental tenacity to lead the Denver Broncos down the stretch.That much was clear this week when Siemian received a second cortisone shot in his ailing left shoulder along with a vote of confidence from his coach.Like a kid playing Whac-A-Mole at an arcade, Kubiak seemingly has spent the whole season hammering away at rumors of another quarterback controversy in Denver:-No, Paxton Lynch isnt going to be under center for the homestretch that includes two games against Kansas City, one against Oakland and another against rival New England.-No, Kubiak has never wavered on Siemian, who won the job as Peyton Mannings successor over trade acquisition Mark Sanchez and Lynch, the teams first-round draft pick.-Yes, he expects much, much more of his QB who has earned GM John Elways praise for going 7-2 as the starter.I want Trevor to play big. I dont want Trevor to play OK or good, Kubiak said.Elway said Tuesday hes pleased with the teams record and also expects the Broncos to go on another post-bye roll.I think we would take it if you said at Week 10 wed be 7-3 with whats happened, Elway said. We havent played our best football yet, which I think is the encouraging thing.But weve played hard week in and week out, and so Im excited about our possibilities and what we can do. I know that the schedule is a tough schedule from here on out, but thats what happens when you win the division. But were excited about it.We feel like we can get better on the offensive side. We have room for improvement there. Weve figured out ways to win. Thats what you have to do. Were excited about the last six.Siemian said he relishes the rising expectations.Kube expects a lot out of me. I expect a lot out myself truthfully, Siemian said.To do that, he knows he has to stay upright.Siemian took a beating in Denvers 25-23 win at New Orleans on Sunday when he was sacked six times, hit on 11 other drop-backs and tackled on three runs. Thats an agonizing total of 20 shots on that sore left shoulder thats bothered him since it was driven to the turf in Tampa on Oct. 2, forcing him to sit out the next six quarters.Hes beat up. He took a lot of shots, Kubiak said. Some of them he has to take responsibility for. We have to make sure that hes stepping up in the pocket.Aside from the dazzling defensive 2-point conversion that won it, the takeaway image from the Superdome was Siemian on his back, his arms outstretched toward the roof in celebration after getting hammered while throwing a touchdown pass to Demaryius Thomas.The reason he does make a lot of plays is because he will sit in there and get hit right in the mouth and make a play. That is a great characteristic of a quarterback because you have to do that sometimes, Kubiak said.Kubiak then added this caveat: Siemian needs to protect himself better. This, even though five of the sacks and both of Siemians interceptions Sunday came on four-man rushes, meaning the Broncos had the blockers, but still couldnt protect the passer properly.Right now, sometimes his depth is bad in the shotgun, Kubiak said. Its something weve got to work on. When its good, hes stepping up. Sometimes hes drifting and getting hit when he shouldnt be getting hit.He gets on the road, gets loud, you get in the gun, you start getting away from the center a little too far and now all of a sudden youre back there hitting 11 yards. Were not going to protect you if youre doing that. Its just something that we have to improve with him.That was Kubiak defending his beleaguered lineman, something hes willing to do because hes as much assured in Siemians psychological doggedness as he is in his physical toughness.The bye week will provide the coaching staff the opportunity to reconfigure Siemians pocket of protection.Ty Sambrailo replaced an ineffective Donald Stephenson at right guard midway through the game Sunday, when the Broncos broke out of a prolonged funk and had zero three-and-outs in a dozen drives.Kubiak said Tuesday that Sambrailo deserves to play a lot more football.Like a seasoned veteran, Siemian placed plenty of the blame for his aches and pains on his battered shoulders.A lot of times Im holding the ball too long and I get what I deserve in that sense, Siemian said.He said this five-day furlough that begins Wednesday is all about letting his battered body heal.Yeah, a lot of rest, Siemian said. Wont be doing much bench press this week.Hell be doing the heavy lifting soon enough.---For more NFL coverage: http://www.pro32.ap.org and http://www.twitter.com/AP-NFL---Follow Arnie Melendrez Stapleton on Twitter: http://twitter.com/arniestapleton Will Harris Lions Jersey . Peter Holland and Brad Staubitz were sent to Toronto on Saturday as the Maple Leafs traded defenceman Jesse Blacker and draft picks to the Anaheim Ducks. Barry Sanders Jersey . The next step is a better finish. Bae played bogey-free Friday on another gorgeous day at Riviera for a 5-under 66, giving him a one-shot lead over Aaron Baddeley and Robert Garrigus going into the weekend. http://www.authenticnfllionslockroom.com/Youth-Kenny-Golladay-Elite-Jersey/ . The mixed zone is not a place to make friends. T.J. Hockenson Jersey . The mixed zone is not a place to make friends. Jahlani Tavai Womens Jersey . -- For the first time in two months, an opponent was standing up to Alabama. Lauren Jackson and Seattle had never gotten a chance to say goodbye to each other.When Jackson last walked off the KeyArena court four years ago, her tying 3-pointer had just helped the Seattle Storm beat the Minnesota Lynx in overtime in Game 2 of their playoff series. At that point, Seattle fans were hoping to see Jackson the following week in the Western Conference finals. Alas, the Storm lost the deciding Game 3 in Minnesota when Jackson missed at the buzzer, and a series of injuries prevented her from returning to the WNBA -- or to Seattle.In March, Jackson announced her retirement, concluding one of the most impressive careers in womens basketball history. And on Friday night, after beating the Washington Mystics 80-51, the Storm finally got a chance to honor Jackson for the WNBA portion of that career spent entirely in Seattle. In an emotional ceremony at turns funny and poignant, Jacksons No. 15 jersey became the first retired by the Storm.I think its great for everybody to have a chance to say goodbye to Lauren, said Seattle head coach Jenny Boucek, an assistant coach for the Storm through much of Jacksons career. I know thats something that weve all wanted to do since we knew that she wasnt going to be able to come back and play.Jackson hadnt so much as been in Seattle since 2012, though it didnt seem that long to her.Its funny, she said. It feels like I havent been gone at all. It doesnt feel like its been four years. It doesnt even feel like a couple days. It just feels like Ive been here the whole time and I havent. I have to keep reminding myself that its been awhile.She got one such reminder before the game, when a young fan Jackson remembered attending games during her playing days came up to get a photo -- and is now a teenager.Four years also had passed since Jackson had seen Sue Bird, her teammate from her second season through the end of her career who developed into one of her closest friends. Because they figured theyd see each other soon, Bird and Jackson couldnt even specifically recall saying goodbye the last time they were together.From the moment Bird greeted Jackson at Sea-Tac International Airport on Wednesday, however, the two picked up right where they left off -- recalling the memories they shared over 11 years together, on and off the court.Shes been staying in my house, so weve been able to hang out, which has been good, Bird said before the game. In some ways, you do start to think back, and of course were reminiscing and thinking about nights out, games, you name it. But at the same time, its as if we didnt miss a beat. We picked up right wwhere we left off.dddddddddddd Havent gotten emotional just yet, but I kind of foresee that happening.Bird was right. While a group of dignitaries including Boucek, former Storm president and CEO Karen Bryant and co-owner Lisa Brummel paid tribute to Jacksons greatness as a performer, her legendary competitiveness on the court and her kindness off it, it was Bird who stole the show with a lengthy speech that ran the emotional gamut.At times, Bird roasted her friend, joking about the rite of passage that Storm teammates experienced of getting yelled at by Jackson for not passing her the ball, and noting that Jackson famously mistook Bird for teammate Adia Barnes during her first training camp. But Bird turned serious in the end, lamenting the fact that Jackson was watching from the sideline while she was putting up 12 points and seven assists Friday playing with a new generation of Storm No. 1 picks (Jewell Loyd and Breanna Stewart).There are definitely days, said Bird, unsuccessfully fighting back tears, where I miss you and I wish you could still be doing this with me.I really do wish she was still playing with me, Bird told media afterward.I wish I was still playing, too, Jackson quietly rejoined.That fact was the bittersweet backdrop to Fridays ceremony. At 35 -- seven months younger than Bird -- Jackson should still be going strong. Her combination of size and shooting ability figured to allow her to remain effective deep into her 30s -- but Jacksons body broke down before she got the chance.I think the closure in itself is a sad thing, she said. At least I got to come back.Jackson also got the opportunity to say thank you to the organization and fans in a brief speech before her jersey was unveiled in the KeyArena rafters, joining the two championship banners from 2004 and 2010 she helped hang.And ultimately, Friday night was more about what Jackson accomplished during her 12 years with the Storm -- the two titles, three MVP awards, seven All-WNBA First Team selections and a spot on the recent WNBA 20@20 list of the greatest players in the leagues two decades of existence -- than what more her injuries prevented her from achieving.Predictably, Bird summed it up best.How things had to end hurts me, she said. I know it hurts you and it hurts me as well. I just want you to know that what you did here, what you did for me, what you did for all these people ... I know it didnt end the way you wanted, but dont let that change all that you did here. ' ' '

Some of the sports stories The Associated Press is covering Friday. A full Sports Digest will be sent by about 3 p.m. All times EST:- BOSTON -- Daily fantasy sports rivals DraftKings and FanDuel agree to merge after months of increasing scrutiny. The companies say they can now cut costs while battling regulators across the country to remain legal.- HOMESTEAD, Fla. -- With almost no fanfare, NASCARs most complicated driver is retiring Sunday. Tony Stewart will then be able to finally answer only to himself.- HOMESTEAD, Fla. -- Kyle Busch is trying to repeat as NASCARs champion in the title-deciding finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway.- CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Luke Kuechly was carted off the field Monday night with a possible concussion, which would be his second in two years. Coach Ron Rivera is to discuss the injury to the Panthers star linebacker.- FRISCO, Texas -- Dez Bryant says he couldnt have played a day after his fathers death without his teammates support. This team chemistry is one reason this is becoming a special season for the Cowboys.- Eleven years after ESPN telecast an NFL game from Mexico City, the network does so again when the Raiders play the Texans on Monday night. This time, ESPN intends to capture the full vibrancy of the city.- In the lone college football game Friday night involving a ranked team, No. 22 Boise State is home against UNLV. (9 p.m.). Boise State is back in the discussion for a major bowl after UNLV upset Wyoming last week.- Stories on three key games Saturday: No. 8 Oklahoma-No. 10 West Virginia; No. 12 Colorado-No. 20 Washington State; and No. 16 LSU-No. 21 Florida.- HARRISBURG, Pa. -- The judge who has presided over Jerry Sanduskys criminal case for five years is removing himself from the former Penn State assistant coachs appeal.- LOS ANGELES -- DAngelo Russell and Los Angeles Lakers go for their seventh victory in nine games when they play Pau Gasol and the first-place San Antonio Spurs, who have won four straight. Game starts 10:30 p.m.- Two notable mens college basketball games: No. 3 Villanova vs. Wake Forest at Charleston, S.C. (1:30 p.m.) and No. 11 Xavier vs. Clemson at Orlando, Fla. (1:30 p.m.).- LONDON -- Andy Murray qualifies for the semifinals of the ATP finals by beating Stan Wawrinka. Murray needs to do better than Novak Djokovic this weekend to finish the season at No. 1.- ST. SIMONS ISLAND, Ga. -- Mackenzie Hughes is in front and one shot ahead of Stewart Cink entering the second round of the RSM Classic at Sea Island.- NAPLES, Fla. -- Shanshan Feng has the lead going into the second round of the CME Group Tour Championship, with the Chinese star trying to win her third straight event. Boone Jenner Blue Jackets Jersey . Vancouver Whitecaps and Toronto FC failed to make the postseason while Montreal Impact fell at the first hurdle losing heavily to Houston Dynamo in the Eastern Conference Knockout Round. Markus Nutivaara Blue Jackets Jersey . PAUL, Minn. http://www.bluejacketsshop.com/authentic-markus-hannikainen-blue-jackets-jersey/ . -- For the first time in two months, an opponent was standing up to Alabama. Joonas Korpisalo Jersey . The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the Lions have not announced the hiring, which was first reported by ESPN. Lombardi, the grandson of former Green Bay Hall of Fame coach Vince Lombardi, has been an offensive assistant on Sean Paytons New Orleans staff since 2007. Boone Jenner Jersey . Kyle Denbrook, a soccer player from Saint Marys University, took the CIS male athlete of the week honour. Stanley, a fourth-year business administration student from Charlottetown, scored both goals in a 2-0 win over Dalhousie on Friday and tallied again in a 1-0 win over Saint Marys on Sunday. ST. LOUIS - Within days of the St. Louis Cardinals missing the playoffs for the first time since 2010, the teams front office met and quickly zeroed in on what the club needed to get back to World Series contention. General manager John Mozeliak laid the plan out for the public at the teams annual postseason media conference.The Cardinals needed to be more athletic. They needed to catch and throw the ball more skillfully. They needed to add a dash of menace on the bases. As they discussed potential fixes, one other attribute sometimes entered their thinking. They wanted their team to better reflect the city in which it plays.The player they identified for their search was uniquely qualified to check off each of the boxes. Dexter Fowler has one of the most selective eyes in baseball, making him a perfect puzzle piece for the top of the lineup. He is an established center fielder whose defensive metrics are riding an uptick at age 30, when some players are beginning to slip. He is good for about 19 stolen bases a year, roughly three times what last years leading Cardinal base stealer, Stephen Piscotty, managed.It didnt hurt that the Cardinals were signing him away from the Chicago Cubs, the rival team he had just helped to its first World Series title since the Teddy Roosevelt administration.Nor was it lost on the Cardinals as they began contemplating a multi-year, big-money commitment that finding an African-American star could have social benefits in their community. Their background check on Fowler only reinforced their feeling that he was the perfect man for the job, prompting them to offer him a five-year, $82.5 million deal, which he agreed to last week.One of the things we think was very important about Dexter Fowler besides the baseball side of what he brought to the Cardinals was his understanding of social issues, Mozeliak said. He is very active in understanding whats happening around him. Hes a very bright and intelligent person and doesnt shy away from whats happening in communities.Fowlers signing has already helped reinforce the sometimes rickety bridge between the team and St. Louis large African-American community. It was even greeted with a statement of gratitude from the local NAACP.Me and my friends look up to him as not only an athlete, but a black athlete. Not many athletes playing baseball are of African-American descent, said Tommy Woods, a junior infielder at McCluer North High School. Him being on the Cardinals is just a real inspiration. It helps us stay on top of what we have to and helps us realize theres a chance for us, and we can always keep striving.Woods double-play partner, Dexter Swims, agreed: Dexter Fowler gives us hope that its possible for us to make it that far.Woods and Swims live in North St. Louis County, within a seven-minute drive of the St. Louis airport. Steer just a tick east, and you arrive in Ferguson, a little town that became a flash point for racial tension after the fatal shooting of Michael Brown by white police officer Darren Wilson on Aug. 9, 2014. Hundreds of students at McCluer North, many of whom live in Ferguson, protested by walking out of class with their hands raised, forcing a brief closure of the school.I went down there because I wanted to see where it happened, Swims said. It was kind of touching because the whole community came together, and they were hurt. It was sad to see so many people down and losing hope.Last year, just 8 percent of players on the Opening Day rosters of MLB teams were African-American, holding steady from 2012 but still the lowest it has been since the integration era. That decline is felt acutely in St. Louis, which has a large black population and one of baseballs most adoring fan cultures. The look of the team and the fans in its stadium often hasnt reflected the faces in the streets around the ballpark.The city of St. Louis, where Busch Stadium sits in the shadow of the Gateway Arch, is nearly 50 percent black, and the entire region of roughly 2.4 million people, is roughly 18 percent black. The Cardinals havent had a black All-Star in 19 years.Swims said he frequently hears from his black friends and fellow students that baseball is a white mans game. He counters by filling them in on the history of the sport and the transcendent way his favorite player, Jackie Robinson, changed the game with his bold dashes around the base paths. Both he and Woods have had contact from Division I baseball coaches and are hoping to receive scholarship offers. In that way, they could folloow Robinsons lead.dddddddddddd He starred at UCLA before finding fame with the Dodgers.For years, Swims father, also named Dexter, had him watch tapes of baseball from the 1980s and 1990s, when black participation was higher. In 1975, MLB was 27 percent African-American, a number that steadily declined for more than 20 years. At their family gatherings, people openly wondered when the Cardinals would sign or develop another black star. Jason Heyward played in St. Louis for one season but signed with the Cubs a year ago. Fowler could be the star theyve been waiting for.Its a lot to put on one player, particularly one who grew up not in St. Louis, but in Georgia. Fowler, however, sounds up to the task of embodying something more than his ability to catch a baseball or hit one. Before he signed with the Cardinals, he had a telephone conversation with Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith. A day later, at the press conference announcing his signing, he said the talk helped him feel more comfortable about making St. Louis his next baseball home, maybe his last. Fowler has previously played in Colorado, Houston and Chicago. He has a blanket no-trade clause.Just hearing the joy Ozzie had for the city, it definitely helped, Fowler said. You look at Lou Brock and some of these other guys, this is a good organization.Fowler, who is married to Darya Aliya Fowler, a woman of Iranian descent, said he would embrace helping build bridges between communities in and around St. Louis.I wouldnt say its forced. Its just something God has blessed me with, to be able to walk in a room and get along with everybody. My parents are the same way, Fowler said. Youve got to look past everything and realize everybody is themselves, and youve got to be humble about it.Smith would like to see the Cardinals with three or four prominent black players instead of one, but he understands the changing demographics within the game. Last season, reserve outfielder Tommy Pham was the teams lone black player until pitcher Jerome Williams arrived late in the season. The Cardinals had an otherwise diverse roster with players of Cuban, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Mexican, Colombian and South Korean descent.Its very important to have a player like Dexter. An organization has to start looking like its community, Smith said. If it doesnt look like its community, then when you look at the ballpark you dont see the community. Its got to be more inclusive. If you want more African-Americans at the ballpark, the imperative is to get African-American players. If you get them, and they go out and do their job every day and entertain people, youre probably going to get more people out at the ballpark. This is not rocket science.The heir to a team that Branch Rickey ran before he was hired by the Brooklyn Dodgers and broke baseballs color barrier by signing Robinson, Mozeliak is aware of the Cardinals place in the community.Four of the teams 10 all-time WAR leaders are black, and three of those players -- Bob Gibson, Lou Brock and Ozzie Smith -- are in the Baseball Hall of Fame. The 1964 Cardinals, in particular, helped reinforce the idea of integration when, in the World Series, they upset the New York Yankees -- still largely segregated under GM George Weiss -- with a team dominated by stellar black players such as Gibson, Brock, Bill White and Curt Flood. The Cardinals appeared in three more World Series in the 1980s, again behind largely African-American talent such as Smith, Willie McGee, Lonnie Smith, George Hendrick and Vince Coleman.Dexter Fowler has such a unique opportunity to really kind of build on that legacy, and were so proud of the Cardinals, who made not only a great decision on a player, but also in continuing to diversify and to keep inclusion at the forefront of their operation, said John Gaskin, spokesman for the St. Louis County NAACP.The Cardinals seem quietly confident they got the right man. If theyre right, his absence will hurt the rival Cubs. Hell continue to get on base at a high rate and hit the occasional home run. Hell stabilize their outfield and unclog base paths that seemed lined with molasses when the Cardinals were running.If it works out as well as they hope, hell also look around and embrace his new neighbors. Hell make Busch Stadium look more like the blocks around it, and hell make the blocks around it feel more like theyre part of whats happening at Busch Stadium. ' ' '

DALLAS -- Former Dallas defensive end Greg Hardy, who remains unsigned after a tumultuous 2015 season revolving around his domestic violence case in North Carolina, was arrested on a cocaine possession charge in Texas.Hardy was booked early Monday and later released on $5,000 bond in the Dallas suburb of Richardson on a charge of possession of a controlled substance of less than one gram, jail spokesman Tim Weed said.The 28-year-old Hardy signed with Dallas as a free agent last year after Carolina decided not to bring him back as a result of the domestic violence case.Hardy was suspended for the first four games last season over the domestic incident, and his production with the Cowboys dropped off considerably after photos of bruised ex-girlfriend Nicole Holder were posted by Deadspin.The 2013 Pro Bowl player was pulled over late Sunday night for failure to signal a left turn, and a search of his vehicle revealed the cocaine and an item containing marijuana remnants, according to police documents.The former player told police he didnt know what was in a bag that police said contained cocaine, and Hardy said somebody gave him the bag at a party the previous night.Police said a substance that tested positive for cocaine was found in his wallet, but Hardy said he had been passing around his wallet at the party because he was paying for everybody and that must have been when the baggie was put in his wallet, according to the police report.Hardys agent, Drew Rosenhaus, declined to comment. The NFL didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.The police report also made reference to a couple of gun club membership cards in Hardys wallet. When the NFL suspended Hardy for 10 games over his domestic case, the league cited the presence of guns in his apartment in the ruling. An arbitrator reduced the ban to four games.Hardy was convicted by a judge in the North Carolina case, but prosecutors dropped the case during his appeal because Holder couldnt be located to testify. Prosecutors said they believed Hardy had reached a settlement with Holder over the incident.Despite strong criticism for signing Hardy, Dallas owner Jerry Jones said early last season that he wanted to give the pass rusher a long-term contract.But after several missteps by Hardy and his late-season decline, Jones said during the NFL draft that the Cowboys wouldnt pursue another deal with him, even though they would be missing starters DeMarcus Lawrence and Randy Gregory on season-opening suspensions for substance abuse.---Online:AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP-NFL---Follow Schuyler Dixon on Twitter at https://twitter.com/apschuyler Olivier Giroud Jersey . If ever they start actually putting pictures beside words in the dictionary, the Blue Jays left-handers mug will appear beside “Consistency. Callum Hudson-Odoi Chelsea Jersey . -- The plastic that was taped across the lockers in Oaklands clubhouse came down and the champagne that was on ice went back into the cooler. http://www.chelseasoccerjerseysonline.com/womens-danny-drinkwater-chelsea-jersey/ . Jane Virtanen scored two, and Alex Roach and Elliott Peterson rounded out the offence for the Hitmen (40-15-6). Brady Brassart chipped in with three assists. Colton McCarthy scored twice, Brayden Point had a goal and two assists, and Jack Rodewald also scored f

When Eilish McColgan takes her place on the start line in Rio next month it will be a major achievement that she is able to run, let alone compete with the worlds best.The British star has endured a nightmare run of illness and injury since placing 10th in the 3,000 metres steeplechase at the 2013 World Championships -- a tale of misfortune so serious it almost led her to quit athletics for good.After switching to the 5,000m under the watchful eye of mum and 1988 silver medallist Liz, the 25-year-old McColgan is ready to defy the odds at the 2016 Games, just months after she was in too much pain even to walk.In 2014 I had some sort of viral illness, McColgan told ESPN. I had a lot of heart problems as well. I went into a condition where the heart just doesnt slow down, its like its going at 100 miles an hour. That meant for the whole of 2014, I struggled to get consistent training in.It wasnt until I took a break at the end of the season and went on holiday that the illness started to fade away. So I started to get myself into really good shape over Christmas 2014 going into 2015.The time off did wonders for McColgans health and she was finally able to return to training with the British squad at a training camp in South Africa. However, after being struck down with yet another illness, worse was to come.It was literally a couple of days after Id started running again, McColgan said. I twisted my ankle while I was out on the grass jogging. That was it. Id fractured a bone in my ankle. I couldnt believe it.My specialist said its the type of fracture hes yet to see heal naturally. Some members of the public might just leave it like that, because they dont have to return to running so many miles a week.After eight or nine months, it was obvious it wasnt healing, so I eventually had surgery. In my left foot I now have seven screws and a metal plate.Her ankle patched up, McColgan was then presented with the mental challenge of building herself back up for a tilt at Rio. But there was a problem. Her foot was not going to withstand the impact of vaulting hurdles in the steeplechase.At the start of the year I wrote down the qualifying times I needed for the steeplechase, the 5,000m and the 10,000m, and pinned them onto the wall, McColgan said.Id never done a 10km, Id only ever done one 5km, but my foot wasnt going to hold up for the steeplechase. Even though Id never done those other events, you just cant let go. I train my whole life to make the Olympic Games and something was saying to me dont be giving up.Running on her ProForm Performance treadmill, McColgan would chase those qualification times as the pain in her ankle refused to die down. As recently as February this year she was hardly able to walk, and even now she is limited to running half the miles she would typically in training.The determination eventually paid off though. Taking inspiration from her mum, McColgan ran a personal best for the 5,000m in her first track race in two years at Julys British Championships, somehow dragging her body to Rio qualification.Still coached by her mum Liz -- a silver medallist in the 10,000m at Seoul 1988 and world champion in Tokyo three years later -- McColgan is determined to emulate her achievements and reach her first Olympic final, having failed to make it out of the steeplechase heats at London 2012.Its exciting to be following in my mums footsteps, she said. Shes been through a lot. Shes not been as injured as me so early on in her career, but its nice to have someone there who has been through it.My mums coached me from the word go. Without her I wouldnt even be able to call running my hobby, let alone my job. Im still amazed by her achievements, but Im now within 10 seconds of her 5k PB [personal best].McColgan, who ran a new PB to finish seventh in the 1,500m at Londons Anniversary Games last Friday, has recently been an outspoken critic of doping controls while training in Kenya. However, there was a hint of weariness when she touched on the topic again as she insisted she was focussing on her own performances.With Russian athletes banned from the track and field competition at Rio, and their countrymen in other disciplines perhaps facing the axe despite the International Olympic Councils decision against a blanket ban, McColgan will at least be facing a cleaner field next month.But after the setbacks of the past two years, perhaps just finishing the race will be triumph enough for the Briton. While some athletes may choose to dope and take the easy way out, her story is built on hard work.Im glad I persisted because there were a lot of times where other athletes would have given up, she said. Im still here and Im still going, giving it another try.Making the team was far beyond anything I could have imagined for this year. Id love to make the final though. Its going to be exceptionally tough because the Ethiopian and Kenyan girls are close to the world record day in, day out.To be on the start line in Brazil far outweighs anything I could have imagined for this year. Its strange though, as soon as you start running well again, you forget all the setbacks youve had over the years. Its going to be difficult, but thats what Im training for every day, to make that final. Mitchell Trubisky Youth Jersey . Clarkson had been dealing with an elbow injury in early January and will be out of action for at least one week. He has three goals and five assists through 36 games with the Leafs this season. Devin Hester Youth Jersey . The 19-year-old Olsen played 34 games with the Kelowna Rockets of the WHL this season. In that time, hes recorded 17 goals and 17 assists with 36 penalty minutes. http://www.bearsrookiestore.com/Bears-Akiem-Hicks-Jersey/ . President of baseball operations Larry Beinfest was fired Friday after 12 years with the Marlins. The move came as the team neared the end of its third consecutive last-place season in the NL East. Walter Payton Youth Jersey . "No difference at all," chirped U.S. roommate and linemate James van Riemsdyk. "Its still the same cranky Phil. Akiem Hicks Youth Jersey . The 29-year-old from Port Colborne, Ont., has nothing but good things to say about former U.S. marine Liz (Girlrilla) Carmouche ahead of their co-main event Wednesday on the UFCs "Fight for the Troops" televised card in Fort Campbell, Ky. DURHAM, N.C. -- Senior Rashaun Madison had 24 points on 8-of-10 shooting -- all from 3-point range -- and Pat Cole had a triple-double and North Carolina Central beat Jackson State 84-75 on Friday night.Cole finished with 14 points and added career highs of 12 rebounds and 10 assists. Pablo Rivas and Dajuan Graf had 15 points apiece. Graf had a career-best 11 assists and redshirt-senior Will Ransom -- who came in with 32-career points and none this season -- scored 11.Paris Collins hhit 1 of 2 from the foul line to pull Jackson State (1-2) within six with 4:49 to play.dddddddddddd But Madison hit a 3 and Cole made a jumper and two free throws as NCCU (2-2) used an 8-2 spurt to make it 81-69 with 2:08 to play.Yettra Specks scored a career-high 23 points on 9-of-12 shooting and Paris Collins scored 16 with 10 rebounds for Jackson State. ' ' '

ST. LOUIS -- Mike Foltynewicz set the tone for the capper of the Atlanta Braves feel-good weekend.The right-hander worked six strong innings, Nick Markakis and Erick Aybar had two RBI apiece and the Braves kept the St. Louis Cardinals down at home with a 6-3 victory on Sunday.Matt Kemp added two hits and an RBI to help the Braves take two of three, outscoring the Cardinals 19-8 the last two games. Atlanta has the worst record in the majors at 41-70, but has won seven of its last 11 overall.Counting a six-run ninth, they scored 12 runs in three innings.The guys are something else, I tell you, interim manager Brian Snitker said.Adam Wainwright (9-6) had a rare off-day against Atlanta, surrendering three runs in the first and second. He entered 8-2 with a 2.95 ERA against the Braves, who drafted him in the first round in 2000 and traded him to St. Louis in 2003 in a deal for J.D. Drew.We needed to win that game, Wainwright said. Im sorry we didnt, that was my fault, but the luck was certainly not on my side and sometimes you need it.The Cardinals are just 26-32 at home after going 55-26 last season, but have been good on the road at 32-21. Theyve lost 12 series at homme.Its pretty dadgum dark, but nobody in this clubhouse is quitting, Wainwright said. We just need our starting pitcher to go out there and not give up six in the first two innings and give the team a good chance.Brandon Moss had a sacrifice fly and double and Yadier Molina had three hits and an RBI for St. Louis.Foltynewicz (5-5) gave up a run and six hits, plus singled and scored his first career run in the second. In his previous three outings, he allowed 14 earned runs in 16 1/3 innings.The big cushion certainly helped.It was awesome to see a lead like that, especially with their ace, Foltynewicz said. Thats what starting pitchers should do -- thats your job to get deep into games and give your team the best chance to win.Jim Johnson earned his eighth save in 11 chances.Braves third baseman Adonis Garcia made an outstanding stab down the line to turn a double play on Jhonny Peralta in the sixth. Right fielder Nick Markakis made a diving catch on Wainwrights shallow pop fly to end the fourth.The defense was amazing, Foltynewicz said. I was grinding since pitch one.After needing 61 pitches to get through the first two innings, Wainwright finished strong with four scoreless innings. But the Cardinals stranded five runners the first two innings.STILL STREAKINGAtlantas Ender Inciarte singled and scored in the second and has an 18-game hitting streak, matching his career best set in 2014. Hes batting .380 (27 for 71) during the run.Kind of the kid weve been waiting to see, I guess, Snitker said.Aybar had a two-run triple in the second and has hit in 12 straight.ROSTER UTILIZATIONBraves RHP Madison Younginer was put straight to work after his contract was purchased from Triple-A Gwinnett and he had a rough debut, allowing two runs while getting two outs. Atlanta claimed RHP Chaz Roe off waivers from the Orioles and designated OF-IF Brandon Snyder for assignment.TRAINERS ROOMCardinals: 2B Matt Carpenter was not in the lineup a day after getting removed with apparent side muscle difficulties. He was activated off the DL on Friday after missing 24 games with a strained right oblique.UP NEXTBraves: Rob Whalen (1-0, 7.20) makes his second career start on Monday, working the opener of a four-game series at Milwaukee.Cardinals: Michael Wacha (7-7, 4.35) has won his last five decisions heading into the opener of a three-game series against the Reds. Serge Ibaka Jersey . -- PGA TOUR Canada member Steve Saunders took a three-stroke lead Saturday in the Web. Vince Carter Jersey . Numbers Game looks into the Canadiens securing the services of Thomas Vanek in a trade with the New York Islanders. The Canadiens Get: LW Thomas Vanek and a conditional fifth-round pick. http://www.nbaraptorsonline.com/Authentic-Marc-Gasol-Jersey/ . SIMONS ISLAND, Ga. Pascal Siakam Raptors Jersey . LOUIS -- Heading into the final stretch of the season, the issues for the Chicago Bears banged-up defence only seem to be getting worse. Toronto Raptors Jerseys . The 18th player to shoot 60 on the tour, Jamieson settled for par on the final hole when his 15-foot birdie chip grazed the edge of the hole and stayed out. After opening with rounds of 66 and 73 to make the cut by a stroke, he had 11 birdies in the bogey-free round. Stuart Lancaster is back in rugby after taking a short-term role with Leinster which sees him join the PRO12 franchise as senior coach until the end of the season.The move means all four of Englands coaches from the last World Cup are now back in rugby. Andy Farrell was first when he was confirmed as Irelands defence coach and he was followed by Mike Catt who joined Italy. Then Graham Rowntrees move to Harlequins was announced leaving Lancaster as the last member of the quartet looking for a post.But he is now part of the Leinster coaching side and judging by the moves the previous England coaches have made, it looks a sensible call. We assess the choices Lancasters predecessors Sir Clive Woodward, Andy Robinson, Brian Ashton and Martin Johnson made after leaving the England job.Sir Clive Woodward (England 1997-2004)After winning the World Cup in 2003, Woodward was named British & Irish Lions coach in February 2004 for their tour of New Zealand the following year. But after a poor summer tour to the southern hemisphere with England, Woodwards frustrations with the politics of the English game saw him gone by September.Taking charge of the Lions was his last full-time role in rugby and in 2005 he was made performance director of Southampton FC. He was later made director of football under George Burley but was gone by August 2006. He has long been linked with a return to the RFU in roles above the national coach but is still in the rugby wilderness, much to the detriment of English rugby.Andy Robinson (England 2004-2006)The RFU turned to Robinson to fill his former boss Woodwards vacancy but the step up did not go to plan. Disappointing performances in the 2005 and 2006 Six Nations were compounded by a poor autumn series and he was gone by November 2006.His next move was to go to Edinburgh where he was a success. He led them to record-high finishes in the Celtic League and was given the Scotland job in 2009. He resigned after a string of disappointing results in November 2012 and was then given the Bristol job in February 2013 where he remains to this day. The case of Robinson will give Lancaster heart as he rebuilt his repputation outside of the England bubble.ddddddddddddBrian Ashton (England 2006-2008)Ashton was always a reluctant England head coach and certain factors, like not being able to pick his backroom staff, worked against him. But he still managed to lead them to the final of the 2007 World Cup.He left after guiding England to second place in the 2008 Six Nations and declined a position in charge of the RFUs national academy. From there he took up a role at Bath University and returned to rugby in 2010, in a consultancy role at National 2 North side Fylde. The England role was his last position in top level rugby.Martin Johnson (England 2009-2011)As a player Johnson was an England legend but with the benefit of hindsight his first coaching role, in charge of the national side, came too soon. There was the hope he would work alongside Woodward with England but that never materialised and having won one Six Nations title with England, he left after their 2011 World Cup campaign which was remembered for off-field ill-discipline rather than any on-field form.Johnson has stayed in the wilderness ever since and is unlikely to return to coaching any time soon. Talking in June 2015 about whether he will return to rugby, he said: Who knows. Ive had a few offers, but nothing that really got me excited. I never really planned much, so who knows. Im not burning to go and do it.Stuart Lancaster (England 2011-2015)Lancaster replaced Johnson as interim England coach and after leading the side to second place in the Six Nations, was given the post on a full-time basis. It was a similar tale for the next three Six Nations campaigns and after crashing out of the 2015 World Cup at the pool stage, Lancaster left his post.After being linked with a move to the Reds and Toulon -- he also spurned the advances of Japan -- Lancaster has settled for a role at Leinster. It remains to be seen exactly what the senior coach title entails but it will give him a chance to get his hand back in after nearly a year away from the sport. ' ' '

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas -- Caleb Broach scored on a 1-yard run in overtime and Prairie View rallied to beat Alabama State 24-17 on Saturday.Owen Hoolihan kicked a 37-yard field goal with 12 seconds left in regulation to tie it at 17-all after missing a 34-yard attempt earlier in the quarter. Prairie View needed just four plays to score in overtime and Alabama State was stopped on fourth-and-17 to end it.Trey Green hit Joshua Simmons on a 24-yard TD pass to open the scoring for Prairie View (4-2, 4-1 Southwestern), who trailed 17-7 at halftime. Green was 7 of 15 for 140 yards passing and rushed for 100 yards on two carries. Jalen Morton completed 10 of 25 passes for 135 yards and scored on a 1-yard run.Alabama State (1-5, 1-4) capitalized on Therron Presleys interception of a Moore pass with David Alberts 32-yard field goal. Khalid Thomas, who had 104 yards on 21 carries, and Quinterris Toppings each scored on a 1-yard runs for the Hornets. Mike Piazza Dodgers Jersey . LUCIE, Fla. Babe Herman Youth Jersey . Isner, ranked No. 14, won his eighth career singles title and took the title in New Zealand for the second time after his victory in 2010. The match was similar to Isners quarterfinal victory over fifth-seeded Philipp Kohlschreiber which went to three sets, all tiebreaks and contained no breaks of serve. http://www.ladodgersprostore.us/Jackie-Robinson-dodgers-jersey/ . During the athletes parade, the 23-strong Ukrainian team was represented by a lone flagbearer in an apparent protest at the presence of Russian troops in Ukraines Crimean peninsula. Chris Taylor Womens Jersey . Booth picked up 65 caps after making her national team debut in 2002 at the age of 17. She most recently played for Sky Blue FC of the National Womens Soccer League. "It just felt like it was my time to move on," she said in a phone interview from her hometown of Burlington, Ont. Los Angeles Dodgers Jerseys . Emery skated the length of the ice and fought an unwilling Holtby during the third period of the Flyers 7-0 loss Friday night in Philadelphia. He was given 29 penalty minutes, including a game misconduct. But Emery did not face even a disciplinary hearing with NHL senior vice president of player safety Brendan Shanahan because rules 46. After a wild Saturday filled with big upsets, the ripple effect in the College Football Playoff continued Thursday night, when No. 5 Louisville was thoroughly outplayed by Houston in a 36-10 loss, sending reverberations throughout the selection committees entire Top 25.The ACC took a direct hit, as No. 4 Clemson now stands as its lone CFP contender, but that was just the start.It impacted the Big Ten, which solidified its position as the conference with the best chance to get two teams into the top four.It impacted the Big 12, which takes another breath of hope each time there is an upset in the top 10.It impacted the Pac-12, where one-loss Washington no longer has to worry about passing the eye test against a Louisville team that was ranked ahead of the Huskies before suffering its second loss of the season.It impacted the Group of 5, as Houston should now be ranked after beating two top-10 teams (Oklahoma and Louisville) but is still unlikely to win its division, let alone the American Conference.Thats whats so fascinating about this playoff system. Rarely is a loss by a contender confined to the box score of those two teams. The immediate and most obvious repercussion from Thursday night, of course, is that Louisvilles playoff hopes are likely over. The Cardinals didnt look anywhere near a top-four team, and couldnt overcome their fourth slow start of the season. Louisville was fortunate to beat Duke, Virginia and Wake Forest in spite of pedestrian performances, but in this case, Houston was simply the better team.So all eyes turn to Clemson, where the pressure to win out is immense -- not just on the road against an improved Wake Forest team, but also against rival South Carolina.If Clemson wins at Wake Forest on Saturday, the Tigers will clinch the ACCs Atlantic Division. If they dont, Louisville will win the division and play in the ACC title game -- against a Coastal Division opponent that probably will be unranked.In that scenario, the committee could possibly be comparing the résumés of two-loss conference champions from three leagues: the Big Ten (Penn State or Wisconsin), the ACC (Louisville) and the Big 12 (Oklahoma). The best-case scenario for the ACC would be for Clemson to beat Wake Forest and South Carolina, then win the conference title, leaving no doubt its a top-four conference champion.One thing we know for sure: Clemson and Louisville arent getting in now.The Big Ten is the only conference with any legitimate hope of two playoff teams, but thats assuming that Ohio State wins out but doesnt win its division. Fans have to remember that winning a conference title is one of the tiebreakerrs the committee uses to rank teams with comparable résumés.dddddddddddd If it comes down to Ohio State or Penn State, and the Nittany Lions win the Big Ten title, the Buckeyes would have two strikes against them in the committees protocol.Assuming Alabama, Clemson and the Big Ten champion are all in the final top four, the Buckeyes would then be compared with the Pac-12 champ and Big 12 champ, and theyd probably need some help to unseat one of them (unless Wisconsin wins the Big Ten and the committee values Ohio States head-to-head win above the Badgers league title, which would be an entirely different debate).The one thing Ohio State doesnt have to worry about?Louisville.The same can be said for the Pac-12, whose top contender, No. 6 Washington, dropped behind Louisville in the latest ranking after the Huskies lost to USC. Washingtons strength of schedule has been called into question by the committee, and its loss to USC opened the door to debate whether a one-loss Louisville team could trump a one-loss Pac-12 champion with the worst nonconference schedule in the country.Not anymore.Now Washington should be the committees top bubble team at No. 5, barring any upsets in Week 12.That means the Big 12 still needs all the help it can get for No. 9 Oklahoma or No. 14 West Virginia to finish in the top four, but Houstons win had a direct impact on Oklahomas résumé because the Sooners lost to Houston in the season opener. It would help the Sooners résumé if the selection committee ranked Houston because then their only two losses of the season would be to CFP Top 25 teams (Houston and Ohio State).Houston should be ranked this week after beating two of the committees top 10 teams (No. 9 OU and No. 5 Louisville), but it needs Navy to lose its final two regular-season conference games -- at East Carolina and at SMU -- just to win its division. Its an unlikely scenario, as ESPNs Football Power Index gives the Midshipmen at least a 60 percent chance to win each game. Plus, Houston would have to overcome Boise State and undefeated Western Michigan, teams that could both still win their respective leagues.Remember, its the highest-ranked Group of 5 conference champion that earns a New Years Six bowl bid, not just the highest-ranked team.Houston is a different team when its healthy, especially on defense. Louisville had three turnovers and 15 penalties on a night when it had the committees attention.We blew it, Louisville coach Bobby Petrino said.And everyone else in the Top 25 noticed. ' ' '

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The addition of four players who were franchised?this offseason gives the 2017 free-agent class a boost.Kirk Cousins, Eric Berry, Alshon Jeffery and Trumaine Johnson didnt reach long-term deals with their teams, and history says at least two of them will hit free agency while one will leave. From 2012 to 2015, 19 of 38 franchise players reached long-term deals with their teams. Of the 19 who didnt get long-term deals, 11 left for other teams.The 2017 free-agency class will be filled with several players from the 2013 draft, which wasnt considered a particularly strong one. So far, only 16 draft choices from that year have made the Pro Bowl. Still, the class is interesting.?Three players who were given the franchise tag this year?rank among my top 10 free agents for next year.One thing to remember: Many of the players on?the list below?wont make free agency in 2017 because their teams will lock them up to extensions or give them the franchise tag.Heres my top 25: Shinji Kagawa Jersey . -- The Bishops Gaiters are showing they belong among the countrys top varsity football teams. Mario Gotze Jersey . The nimble-footed quarterback got his wish, dashing through the snow and a weary defence all the way into the NCAA record book. http://www.footballdortmundpro.com/Kids-Marcel-Schmelzer-Jersey/ . -- Washington Redskins tight end Fred Davis was charged Thursday with driving while intoxicated, a day after he was suspended for an NFL substance-abuse policy violation. Sergio Gomez Jersey . -- Cam Newton pranced into the end zone, placed his hands over his chest and did his familiar Superman pose. Eric Oelschlagel Jersey . Down by seven with 90 seconds left in regulation, thats where they looked comfortable.Throughout the Stanley Cup Playoffs, NHL on TSN analyst and former NHL goaltender Jamie McLennan ranks the netminders after each game night. Number values assigned are out of five with five being the best performance. Tuukka Rask - 5 - Complete domination all series long. Poised, in control of his rebounds, great positioning and did not get rattled by traffic or people trying to get him off him game. At the top of his game, Conn Smythhe running right now.dddddddddddd Tomas Vokoun - 4 - Great series, certainly not the reason they lost in this series, he gave them a chance every night. Tough to win with NO goal support. Was heavily scrutinized because his hybrid style is old school and it does not look good after the original shot, but the patience in his game was great. The Seguin 2-on-1 can attest to it with a stand up save, took away the top of the net. ' ' '

Listen to our MNF podcast as Jamie Carragher and Scott Parker analyse Chelsea v Tottenham and Leicesters Premier League title win. Spurs were hoping to keep their Premier League title hopes alive with victory at Stamford Bridge and they looked to be on course after first-half goals from Harry Kane and Son Heung-min.But Chelsea hit back in the second-half through Gary Cahill and Eden Hazard to secure a 2-2 draw and hand Leicester City the title. Sky Sports pundit Carragher and former Chelsea midfielder Parker looked back at the bad-tempered clash at Stamford Bridge, debating some of the more controversial moments from the match. MNF Podcast - Chelsea v Tottenham The Monday Night Football panel then went on to discuss Claudio Ranieris side winning the Premier League with Carragher saying it is the greatest achievement in the history of the game.The former Liverpool defender then went on to say Leicesters title-winning players have become legends of the game! MNF Podcast Click here to listen to Graeme Souness and Jamie Carragher debate Tottenhams draw with West Brom Click here to listen to all of Sky Sports Football Podcasts Also See: Carra hails Leicester legends Ranieri changed his ways WATCH: Jamie Vardys party How Leicester won the title Felix Potvin Jersey . Haas said he "felt a lot of pain" in his right shoulder when he slammed his racket to the ground in frustration after losing his serve at 3-3 in the first set. John Tavares Maple Leafs Jersey . Houston won 3-0 to advance to face New York in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Last in the game, Di Vaio and Romero got into a shoving match with several Houston players. Romero appeared to elbow and kick Houston defender Kofi Sarkodie. http://www.mapleleafsteamstoreonline.com/authentic-michael-hutchinson-maple-leafs-jersey/ . Tests earlier this week revealed a Grade 2 left hamstring strain for Sabathia, who was hurt in last Fridays start against San Francisco. Its an injury that will require about eight weeks to heal. He finished a disappointing campaign just 14-13 with a career-worst 4. Johnny Bower Jersey . -- Former San Diego Chargers safety Paul Oliver was found dead at his Atlanta-area home Tuesday night, and a medical examiner said Wednesday that the ex-player committed suicide. Grant Fuhr Jersey . -- Arizona knocked off some quality opponents, rolled over a few overmatched ones and grinded out victories even when things didnt go so well. Something about the city of Boston has always fascinated Erick Colin Mena, a 36-year-old born and raised in Mexico City, so he began following the Patriots. During the NFL Fan Fest over the weekend, he wore a sweatshirt that read: I might live in Mexico, but my team is in New England.Mario Hernandes, 26, was decked out in a full-on Raiders costume, mask and everything. His mom gifted him a Raiders-themed backpack at age 17, and ever since then hes been hooked. A similar thing happened to Jose Antonio Bohon, a 50-year-old who watched Fran Tarkenton as a kid, believed him to be ahead of his time and is now as big of a Vikings fan as you will ever meet. Then there is Josue Alvarez, 22, who first began following the Packers because he really, really likes cheese -- seriously. Alvarez, of course, was wearing a foam cheesehead hat.The Houston Texans and the Oakland Raiders are about to play the first Monday Night Football game outside of the United States at the distinctive Azteca Stadium, a highly anticipated matchup that will be contested in front of a sellout crowd and will prompt millions of others throughout Mexico to watch from home.In the days leading up to it, tens of thousands of fans came through the NFL Fan Fest at Chapultepec Park, displaying their adoration for American football in their outfits.The passion runs deep. -- Alden GonzalezRaul Parrales, 37, son Raul Jr., 8, and daughter Sofi, 5, Oakland Raiders fans from Estado de MexicoI am a lifetime fan, and when my son told me that he wanted to play football, we discovered that the closest team to our house was [called] the Raiders, [so] he became a Raiders fan since then. My wife is my makeup artist. I try to go with makeup to all of my sons games so I can cheer him [on].Karina Rodriguez, 23, a Green Bay Packers fan of five years, from Mexico CityI became a fan because one of my favorite uncles, the oldest in my mothers family, he is a Green Bay fan. Because of him I caught the football and Packers fever.Francisco Caballero Campos, 49, a Pittsburgh Steelers fan from Mexico CityMy team is the Steelers. Im a fan since the 70s, since Franco Harris time. The big Steel Curtain impressed me. In that time, I had to stay up late at night to watch the games. ... I watched them with my dad and my brothers.Fabiola García, 18, a Baltimore Ravens fan who plays football for the Aggies at Deportivo OceaníaI have been a fan for the last 13 years. I became a Ravens fan because of Michael Ohers movie The Blind Side. Oher is my favorite player. ... I like his strength, his ability and how he stops the rivals.Diego (top), 20, and Isaac, 39, Raiders fans from Mexico CityDiego: Mexico should keep hosting NFL games because here we have a lot of diversity. Mexico and the U.S. have a very tight relationship, and we are great hosts.Aramís González, 36, a Denver Broncos fan since 1992, from Estado de MexicoI became a fan in a very weird way. When I saw Denver lose [the AFC Championship Game] against the Buffalo Bills, I was moved by seeing them sad. My favorite player is John Elway, of course. I saw him as a very passionate player. He never gave up, and I liked that he was named the Comeback Kid.Daniela Ruiz, 26, a Raiders fan from Mexico CityMy dad has been a fan for 50 years, and he inspired me to become one. Now Im pregnant, and I hope to do the same with my baby. ... I remember beating the Broncos -- actually that day during the game -- I felt my baby move for the first time.Juan Carlos Victoria, 24, a Dallas Cowboys fan from Mexico CityI admire very much Emmitt Smith. His last run that made him a legend made me fall in love with the Cowboys, but Terrell Owens is my favorite player. His explosive game was amazing.Samuel Soriano, 35, Liliana Aguilar, 35, and son Samuel, 2, Philadelphia Eaagles fansSamuel: My dad is a Cowboys fan, and the rivalry between his team and the Eagles is a big tradition.dddddddddddd I wanted to be part of it, and thats why I decided the Eagles as my team.Itzel Carreto, 38, a Patriots fan from Mexico CityIm a Patriots fan since Ive known my boyfriend -- nine months ago.Gabriel Gonzáles Arellano, 39, and son Leveao, 2, Houston Texans fans from Mexico CityGabriel: My dad loved football; he introduced me to the sport. Soon Warren Moon got my attention and made me fall in love with the [Houston Oilers]. My love for the Houston Texans started when the Oilers disappeared.Daniel Acosta, 16, a Kansas City Chiefs fanIm a fan of Kansas City since I was 5 or 6 years old. My parents transmitted it to me. I watched the games, and I started to like it. I bought this poncho in Cancún. Not [a lot of people have] it; it is very special.América Gonzáles, 19, a Miami Dolphins fan from Cuautitlán IzcaliMy favorite player is [wide receiver Jarvis] Landry, because 14 is one of my favorite numbers. My dad is a Raiders fan, and my mom is a Seattle Seahawks supporter. I love the NFL because Im an athlete, and also because its the first time to see something like this in Mexico.German Robles, 39, a San Francisco 49ers fan from Mexico CityI am the president of Club 49ers Mexico. ... The NFL must expand in Mexico since there are so many fans -- the supporters and players keep on growing.Miguel Garcia, 73, a Raiders fan from VeracruzI am a fan because of my father. He used to play at Instituto Politécnico Nacional. In my house we used to talk about football, and my brother and I followed with the tradition. Some of my fathers family members moved to the U.S., and when we visited them, we decided which was our favorite team. And by this time my family said that I was naughty and some type of bad boy -- thats why I chose the Raiders. A long time ago I had the chance to watch the Raiders at Los Angeles. It was a dream for me. Finally I think that dream is coming back. I have my ticket, and Im not going to miss this game.The Díaz Noriega family, from left, Rodrigo, 15, Alan, 9, Mínica Noriega, 36, Andrea, 7, Jordan, 11, and Rodrigo Díaz, 36, of Mexico CityRodrigo: I started playing football when I was a kid. I liked it because of the toughness of the sport. Monica: Im a fan since junior high. I loved watching the games, even the college games, from Mexico.Giovani Ortega, 28, a Raiders fan from Mexico CityI designed the Aztec Raider to give a Mexican touch to the Black Hole from the U.S.. I wanted to do something different and to show the love I have for my country, something to create a link between Mexico and Raiders. I made all this by myself.Marco Antonio Morales, 39, a Dallas Cowboys fanI became a Dallas fan when I was in primary school. I used to watch the games with my dad, and I was attracted by the uniforms and helmets. My all-time favorite player is Troy Aikman, for the leadership he used to have, the way he handled games. He never gave up; he was very precise. I think the NFL is a big show, and we were missing it.Christian Ríos, 26, and daughter Alexa, 10 months, Steelers fansMy love for the Steelers arose to contradict my dad, who is a 49ers fan. We bet a beer or a meal when theres a match between our teams. My wife and I buy dresses of the Steelers for [Alexa]. Her aunt bought her a dress of the Patriots. She will choose her favorite team when she wants. I hope that it will be the same [as] mine and my wife.Joel Arévalo, 41, and son Gamaliel Enrique, 9, Raiders fans from Mexico CityGamaliel: I love their roughness. They never follow the rules. Sometimes I dont follow the rules. ' ' '