 BOWLING: Getting Started
By JOE R. BOWLING, JR.
Special to the NEWS
Greetings everyone and welcome to … my column.
The initial words there I have used so many times that the count is a blur. As for the final two? Been awhile since I've had my own weekly chance in which to just write about whatever happens to come to mind. In this case I think I will simply start with a little bit about my background in sports.
I have been involved in sports for as long as I can remember and with the assistance of a few 8mm film clips I can even see that I was involved in sports prior to the days that I can recall. I shall date myself real quick here, but hey this age thing isn't such a big deal anyway.
It's how old you feel right?
I grew up in the Midwest. I came to the Valley when the opportunity came along and am satisfied that I shall be here for a very long time.
Being from Missouri and living near St. Louis I have a lot of reference materials regarding the St. Louis Baseball Cardinals. I attended my first game at Sportsman Park in September of 1963. Big day in the city as it was to be the final game of Stan Musial. Was only nine months old then but hey I was at the game.
Lucky enough to have been around for the 1964 World Series in which the Cards beat the Yankees. There was another trip to the Series in '67 and again in '68. Squeeze in an All Star game at the new Busch Stadium and the foundations were set to fall in love with being around sports.
In high school I was fortunate to land a job as an usher at the stadium. As a member of the marching band I was even able to walk on the field when the Steelers came to town in 1978.
It was during the days as an usher that I was bitten by the bug to announce sports. A few years later I got the chance and never looked back.
I have been a play-by-play man for radio and television. Tack on the titles of Sports Writer, Photographer and the chances to cover a lot of events were set in place.
I played sports and have the scars on the knees to remind me that I was pretty competitive. I can still be found, on occasion, at a basketball court near you, trying to come up with one more game.
I have covered some of the worst sporting teams and have been there for some of the absolute best. I went my first three years as an announcer that had a football team go 2-28. The basketball team for the two schools in the region combined to win less than 10 games in that span and the baseball teams didn't fare much better. Later on I would be granted a dream job in covering the best basketball and baseball teams in the state. I have announced state title games in baseball, football, basketball, volleyball and soccer.
Many times I would announce games while looking through the view finder of a camera. This was so I could add a photo to the story that would run in the next day's paper. Working in radio, television and newsprint at the same time just isn't done in small markets but I found a way to do it.
I have been lucky enough to talk on Fox Sports Radio, ESPN Radio and a ton of other sports media across the country. I have been to Duke-North Carolina basketball games, World Series Games, the Super Bowl and a bunch more.
So now my friends I have landed here. Writing for sports here in the Rio Grande Valley.
Chances are you will see me at a game near you in the near future. I shall do my best to be at as many as I can. The one thing you can bet on here in this column week in week out is that it will be from the heart kind of stuff and it will always, always be positive. I don't do the negative thing, especially when dealing with high school athletes.
So enjoy the column. Shoot me an email if there is a sporting event coming up and I'll do my best to be there.
Thanks again - Joe
Practice begins soon in San Benito
By JOE R. BOWLING, JR.
Special to the NEWS
As the month of July winds down things continue to heat up in the sports world for San Benito fans. Soon gym doors will open and the practice fields will be filled with the next crop of players to take part in the new high school sports season.
“It won't be long,” said Athletic Director and Head Football Coach for San Benito Spencer Gantt. “We already have had kids working all along, but soon they will all be in the fold. Boys and girls.”
Football practice for the Greyhounds is set for day one August 9, but the practice has already begun as far as many of the players and the coaches alike.
“We have had a bunch of kids that have been working hard all summer long,” said Gantt, “our numbers in the weight room have been looking real good.”
While football players have circled their calendars the volleyball players are ready to get things underway even earlier. Coach Ruby Medina says that San Benito Lady Hounds Volleyball practices will begin Monday, August 2.
“It's not just football players,” said Gantt, “we have a lot of excitement for the volleyball team this year and yes they too will be working towards the start of a new season.”
The football team has had a couple of chances for the coaches to see the players. Spring football was a two week span that had the kids in pads with opportunities to show that they are ready to fill shoes of graduates. Others are looking to take spots with the extra work it takes to earn the playing time on the field.
“We have a lot of question marks,” said Gantt, “all you have to do is look at our roster from last year and you can see that there are chances for guys to earn a spot.”
When the Greyhounds hit the practice field on Day 1 they will be busy from start to finish with a regimented program from morning through afternoon. By the fifth day of practice, on August 13, they will be in pads. Conditioning is part of the focus of the early practices but Coach was quick to point out that it's not a worry spot.
“For the guys that have been working all summer with us it's not going to be much of an adjustment,” said Gantt, “for the other guys it's going to be some tough mornings.”
With the season set to kick off at home on September 3 against Weslaco it's strictly business on locking in on hard work for the players.
“Look at our schedule,” said Gantt, “There's not an easy one in the bunch so we better be ready to get after it from the start.”
Ticket sales began for current Season Ticket Holders last week and more tickets are being sold. The fans are ready and in now in just a few weeks the players will be ready, too.
Greyhound tickets to go on sale soon
By JOE R. BOWLING, JR.
Special to the NEWS
Football season is just around the corner and fans for the San Benito Greyhounds can now circle the dates to lock in tickets for the upcoming games. This year the Greyhounds are playing their home games on a new turf-covered field and the fans will get six chances to see the team at home.
Last year the Greyhounds sold over 1,600 season tickets for the home games and over 700 fans purchased the package that included all games home and away. This year the school is expecting even more excitement for the team.
Current Season Ticket Holders will be allowed to purchase their tickets Monday, July 19 through Thursday, July 22. These fans will be allowed to pay for their seats during this time and will be required to have their control number at the time of purchase. Ticket holders that wish to exchange seats will be allowed to do so Monday and Tuesday July 26 and 27.
Fans wanting to add seats or fans wanting to become new season ticket holders will have the opportunity to do so beginning Monday, August 2.
Season Tickets for 2010 are priced according to two separate plans. Plan I is for all six home games and the four away games on the schedule. Plan II is for the home games. This year there is a new price for tickets with plan I costing $70.00 per seat and Plan II costing $42.00 per seat.
Season tickets will not be sold after August 5.
Hours for ticket sales and exchange are 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and any further question may be answered by calling the San Benito Athletic Office at (956) 361-6587 or (956) 361-6455.
The Greyhound schedule for the 2010 season begins with a home game on September 3 against Weslaco East. They follow that up the next two Friday night's with home games against Harlingen and Flour Bluff.
September 23 is a Thursday and the Greyhounds are set to hit the road to take on Rivera.
The month of October has the 'Hounds at home on the 1st to play Pace, on the road on the 8th at Los Fresnos and back at home on the 15th when they play Weslaco.
The team travels to Brownsville on October 22 when they play Lopez and then make a return trip to Brownsville on the following Saturday the 30th to play Porter.
The Greyhounds then wrap up the regular season back at home on November 5 when Hanna comes to town.
All home games are set for a 7:30 p.m. kick-off as are the away games. There are two exceptions to that rule as on the 23rd at Rivera they kick-off at 7 p.m. and the Saturday game at Porter is listed as a 2 p.m. kick-off.
As for early looks at this year's Greyhound team there is a scrimmage set for August 27 against Laredo United. The site and time has yet to be determined. There may be another scrimmage set but at this time the team and location has not been set.
It's a new season, a new turf and a lot of excitement just around the corner for football fans of the Greyhounds.
Whitewings power past Broncos
Special to the NEWS
LAREDO - Eric Gonzalez hit a pair of home runs and Joel Roa hit one as well to lead the Rio Grande Valley WhiteWings past the Laredo Broncos 8-6 in seven innings on Thursday at Veterans Field.
The win snaps a five-game losing streak for the WhiteWings (3-5).
The WhiteWings struck right away against Brian Buchanan (0-1). Javis Diaz led off with a single and Kevin Griffin followed with an RBI-double. Griffin moved to third on a wild pitch and scored on a one-out groundout by Joel Roa to make it 2-0.
Eric Gonzalez hit a three-run home run in the top of the third, his second of the season, to make it 5-0.
David Fowler put the Broncos (3-5) on the board for the first time against Misael DeJesus with a leadoff home run in the bottom of the third, making it 5-1.
Roa responded with a one-out solo shot in the top of the fifth. Arlon Quiroz followed with a walk to set-up Gonzalez's second home run of the night, making it 8-1.
The Broncos came charging back in the bottom of the innings, loading the bases with nobody out to set up a Dustin Spruill sacrifice fly. After Doug Thennis hit an RBI-single, Freddy Ballestas (1-0) came in and allowed a three-run home run to Gabriel Memmert on his first pitch, making it 8-6.
Michael Barbosa pitched a scoreless ninth for his third save.
The WhiteWings and Broncos play game three of this four game series Friday at 7:35 p.m. Right-hander Stephen Whalen (0-1) is expected to face right-hander Eric Eden (0-1).
Editor's Note: The WhiteWings are members of United League Baseball, an independent league of six professional baseball teams located in Texas that has sent two players to Major League Baseball in Edward Ramirez (New York Yankees) and Robinson Cancel (New York Mets). In its fifth season, the United League is gearing up for a great summer with teams located in Amarillo, Edinburg, Harlingen, Laredo, Robstown and San Angelo.
Janet's Message
By MICHAEL RODRIGUEZ
Managing Editor
sanbenitonews@sbcglobal.net
The road leading to Janet Mata's home is paved with memories - some good, others painful.
For instance, adjacent to her humble abode is Sullivan Elementary, where for years she faced constant torment from her classmates.
Children were afraid to befriend Janet then; she was often referred to as “the sick girl” and was even pushed to the ground once in middle school, fracturing her hip as a result. She's never been the same since; point of fact, she very rarely recollects a single pleasant experience about her childhood.
But her home is also where countless people visited her, encouraged her, inspired and motivated her to transcend the confines in which her disease has enclosed her. Such support helped Janet to drown out the voices of doctors who said she wouldn't live past 15. And now, at the age of 17, the admirable darling of Avon Street graduated from San Benito High School Friday evening - confined to a motorized wheel chair, yes, but donned in her purple cap and gown and before an abundance of family, friends and supporters who've helped Janet get this far. Not to mention in defiance of many medical officials' prognoses.
The Sick Girl
It was during a visit with Dr. Norma Schacherl of San Benito Medical Associates that Janet, nearing four years of age at the time, discovered she had problems with her liver. The extent of which was not immediately understood; however, it was determined that Janet's liver was growing in mass while her body was not. She would soon go in and out of doctors' offices before being diagnosed with dermatomyositis, a muscle disease for which there is no cure.
Dermatomyositis, also known as inflammatory myopathies, is characterized by chronic muscle inflammation accompanied by muscle weakness, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).
The following are the symptoms of dermatomyositis as reported by NINDS: Skin rashes and red rashes, which look patchy with purple or red discolorations that characteristically develop on the eyelids as well as on muscles used to extend or straighten joints, such as knuckles, elbows, knees and toes.
In Janet's case, she's experienced extreme malnutrition, inflamed organs, and sensitivity to light and heat. As the disease continues to damage her immune system and organs, her condition has long been compounded by calcium deposits - or calcinosis.
To the untrained eye calcinosis may appear like warts, but in reality calcium deposits are hard bumps under the skin or in the muscle that require periodic draining. Dermatomyositis is not contagious.
Still, due to her appearance Janet said her classmates in grade school treated her differently and would often taunt her. This worsened in middle school, and by high school Janet required homeschooling as her fragile body - which gradually weakened over the years - could not withstand a high school schedule.
“It's something I can't really explain. Imagine growing up without friends … that's how I grew up,” Janet said. “People thought I was contagious because of the rashes and calcium deposits. My parents had to buy me long-sleeve shirts so no one would see the bumps and rashes.
“I couldn't play with anyone and no one understood why, so they called me, `the sick girl.' Then in middle school someone, I still don't know who, pushed me down. I fractured my hip and I couldn't walk very well afterwards. The people at the school were very nice and helped me get a motorized chair, but then the kids started calling me, `the girl in the chair.'”
`I Don't Want to be Special'
In the 13 years since her diagnosis, Janet has endured more than the cruel behavior of children. She's undergone four surgeries and is required to visit the hospital every three weeks for gamma globulin treatments, of which the antibodies help fight infections.
Janet's parents, 45-year-old Reynaldo and 40-year-old Hortencia Mata, said they've long been financially burdened by the demanding care needed for their daughter. Until just three years ago, Janet had to be driven back and forth to CityCorpus Christi for the same care she now receives at PlaceTypeValley PlaceNameBaptist PlaceNameMedical PlaceTypeCenter in placeCityHarlingen.
A daily IV (intravenous therapy) of pediasure is also necessary for Janet. For this she requires the use of a portacath feeding tube, which has been inserted just above her waist due to the damage dermatomyositis has caused to her veins.
It doesn't end there.
Digestive issues brought on by intestinal distress have added to Janet's deteriorating health, so much so that four years ago her condition worsened in such a way that her stomach stopped functioning properly.
“They had to feed me thousands of dollars of fat just to keep my nutrition up,” Janet said, further noting that she will soon need a kidney transplant.
Enter depression.
All that she has endured has taken an emotional toll on the young girl, and although one of the issues central to her depression is the childhood she was robbed of, Janet insists she robbed her brothers of as much as well.
Nineteen-year-old Reynaldo Jr., who's enlisted in the Marines and is currently stationed in placecountry-regionJapan, and 12-year-old Juan Carlos were always there for their sister, Reynaldo and Hortencia stressed. But Janet sees herself as more of an inconvenience. She cannot be convinced otherwise.
“They both took care of me, but I stole part of my brothers' childhood, I know I did,” a teary-eyed Janet said.
“She thinks that way because everything we did had to be in consideration of what Janet could or couldn't do, from what we ate to where we went,” Reynaldo said. “We used to tell her when she was little that she was a very special girl. But it's hard as parents, as a father, to hear your little girl say she doesn't understand why all these bad things are happening to her. She used to tell us she didn't want to be special anymore. All I remember is crying so much.”
`My Sanctuary'
It was cold inside the Matas' home on Wednesday, when the interview for this story was conducted.
Janet was sitting on a hardwood chair at the family's kitchen table when this reporter arrived; she appeared uncomfortable there. Nevertheless, Janet slowly stood to shake hands in a polite gesture before proceeding to her living room sofa.
It was later mentioned that Janet cannot sit on hard surfaces for long periods of time, walking and even standing is a challenge, and she cannot bear the temperature being a smidge under 75 degrees.
“I always feel like I'm burning,” an emotional Janet said, visibly frustrated when asked to begin the interview by explaining her condition.
During the course of an hour, it was clear Janet was becoming fatigued fielding questions. Her eyes, already red by her condition, were no longer wide opened, and her posture eventually became a slouch. Ninety minutes into the interview, Janet's father said it was time to “wrap it up” as her daughter had a doctor's appointment in placeCityEdinburg and she still had not eaten.
“We could sit here all day with you and tell you everything we've been through. We could write a series of books,” Reynaldo said. “But I know she's already getting tired, and she'll most likely sleep on the way to the doctor.”
Janet and her mother Hortencia cried when they heard this, it was as if they had come to the realization of her illness all over again.
But the mood quickly changed when Janet was asked, “How do you cope?”
A beaming smile then breathed life back into her face, and without hesitation, she said, “I love to read.”
Suddenly radiant, Janet continued, “It (reading) actually is my peace. When everything feels wrong, when I'm falling apart, it's my sanctuary. I pretend to be the main character in the book.”
The Twilight Saga happens to be Janet's literature of choice, and she also finds solace in the arts. She's a huge fan of Carrie Underwood and country music, and she cannot wait to watch the new episode of HBO's True Blood on June 13.
In observance of their daughter's newfound exhilaration, Reynaldo and Hortencia allowed the interview to continue for five more minutes.
Janet's Message
Though acknowledging the torment she endured during her youth, Janet has also been on the receiving end of extraordinary acts of kindness and generosity exhibited by her peers and teachers, including members of the business community.
While she admits to being bullied in elementary and middle school, Janet said there were some kids who helped her. They opened doors for her, picked her up when she fell and defended her when she needed defending.
Then there's Victor Garza, owner of the Jewelry Workshop, who put her in contact with the News in an effort to share her story.
If not for the school district, Janet would have been without the use of a motorized wheel chair.
Reynaldo, who works at Groves Brothers Machinery, and Hortencia, an employee of Wal-Mart in placeCityBrownsville, said they have been blessed with understanding bosses who for years worked around their schedule so they could better attend to their daughter.
Teresa Leal, Janet's provider, was referred to as a member of the family and credited for her patience and care.
Roland and Janice Buitron, San Benito CISD teachers, took Janet to the prom. Her escort was 14-year-old Roberto Castillo of placePlaceNameRiverside PlaceTypeMiddle School.
“I also can't say enough about Mr. Gonzales. He has done so much to help me,” Janet said about her homeschool teacher, Juan Gonzales.
In consideration of as much, Janet said while she may have lived a hard life, she wouldn't trade her experiences for anything.
“I'm not angry. I may have hated it when I was younger, but now I wouldn't wish any of it away,” Janet said smiling. “I want to tell everyone to appreciate life. I actually get mad at people who complain about their lives, or who don't go to school simply because they don't want to, or those who just don't want to live. I fight every day for my life, and I have no regrets.”
Herrera, Marquez named 2010 Sportsmen of the Year
By SCARLET O'ROURKE
Special to the NEWS
It's probable that San Benito Greyhound fans have heard the names Jo Ann Herrera and Brandon Marquez mentioned quite often in this newspaper.
Well … get used to it.
Herrera and Marquez, both 18, were named Friday the recipients of the 2010 San Benito News Sportsmen of the Year for their outstanding achievements on and off the playing field. But these two student-athletes cannot be pigeonholed to one mere title as their high school career has not only encompassed athletic achievements but academic feats to boot.
To begin, Herrera graduates this year after spending her entire high school career as the starting pitcher for the wildly popular Lady 'Hound softball. A dedicated hurler since her freshman year, Herrera recalled her memories on the diamond fondly. And why not? She's twice made an appearance in the regional semifinals (Sweet 16) along with her fellow teammates. “We made it into the playoffs every year I was here,” Herrera said.
Raised on softball, she began playing at the age of four in the youth league; however, she did not play the position of pitcher until she was eight.
When asked how she felt about receiving the award, she said, “I'm really happy I got it. It shows my hard work really paid off.”
“I was excited when my dad told me about it, even though my mom wanted him to let my coach tell me,” said Herrera.
Her values revolve around her family, academics and teammates. As previously mentioned, her two older sisters were also involved with the sport of softball, so she had parents who were supportive in her athletic endeavors. Alongside that support came a rule her family instilled to be a good student. “Basically my academics came first,” said Herrera. “All my free time when I wasn't studying or in class I spent practicing.” She said that a family-like bond was forged between her and her teammates as well. “It hurts to graduate and leave my time with my teammates,” she said.
Because her academics were so important to her, Herrera was able to balance school work and her athletic life. “I don't really know how I did it,” said Herrera. “But I'm really glad I did it all in the end.”
Along with her school work and athletic life, Herrera was involved in a medical science program at the high school and volunteered at Valley Baptist Medical Center in Harlingen as a nurse's aide during her junior year.
On college, Herrera said she's thinking about attending Huston-Tillotson University in Austin and taking up a softball scholarship they recently offered her. Herrera would like to go on to play baseball professionally, or come back to San Benito and coach softball in high school. She's also planned on studying to be a pediatrician.
Marquez, meanwhile, may be best known as the starting quarterback for the Greyhounds the last two years, but it's a little known fact - given the football fandom in San Benito - that Marquez has also taken to the basketball court, the baseball diamond, and competed in track and field as well as powerlifting at San Benito High School (SBHS).
He started his athletic career back in little league t-ball, this at a very young age. He enjoyed athletics and also maintained high grades during his time at SBHS. “My parents always told me to be the best at what I do,” said Marquez. He also worked hard at sports for the love of his teammates. “I did it for all the brothers on my team. They deserve it as much as I do,” he said.
When asked his thoughts on being named one of the Sportsmen of the Year, Marquez said he got the voicemail telling him that he won the award and “felt great.”
“All the past sportsmen have been friend of mine, and I always thought it was a great honor to receive it,” said Marquez.
When it came to his values, he expressed, “family always comes first, being a great community representative, being looked up to by younger kids and helping them are all very important.”
Moreover, Marquez said he enjoys being a big brother to his three younger siblings and coaching them in life.
His secret to retaining good grades with his busy schedule was simple: pay attention in class, work hard at his studies and still find time to stay late at practice to get as much time into getting better at his sport as possible. Then he returned home to work on his daily assignments and house chores.
Marquez is now preparing to attend the University of Texas-San Antonio (UTSA) in hopes of playing football there. He plans to go on to play professionally, or “at the very least have a career that is sports-based,” Marquez said with a smile.
San Benito produces several first, second team selections
By CARLOS GONZALES
Special to the NEWS
This year's 32-5A All-District team might as well be called the San Benito Lady 'Hounds.
In fact, if there's one thing the placePlaceNameSan Benito PlaceTypeHigh School softball program has accomplished over the years, it's defining tradition.
Tradition in being a powerhouse threat in tradition in District 32-5A, tradition in going deep in the playoffs during the postseason, and tradition in supplying numerous All-District players.
This year is no exception. The Lady 'Hounds continued that tradition and once again ended the season on a good note by going three rounds deep in the playoffs and being one game away from the team's fourth Sweet 16 (regional semifinals) appearance. Now, nine players have been named to the All-District team, not to mention one honorable mention, with one recognized as Sophomore of the Year.
The Lady 'Hounds provided seven first team players, which include Kasey Sanchez for first basemen, Amanda Garza for shortstop, Jo Ann Herrera for pitcher, Melanie Ramirez for outfield, Yesy Peñablanca for outfield, Ruby Castillo for catcher, Jaynee Morales for outfield, and Jackie Garcia for designated player. Honorable mention went to Giselle Tamayo, and Adriana “Squirt” placeFlores received second team honors as well as being named the All-District Sophomore of the Year.
“Everybody did great this year,” said 12th grader Jackie Garcia along with her fellow seniors as they spoke candidly on their final season as a Lady 'Hound.
“It was an amazing year and everything went fine. Everyone helped us (seniors) get far this season and into the playoffs,” Herrera said.
Seniors Ruby Castillo and Jaynee Morales also stated that they wished for the best for next year's team.
“Just remember the basics,” Castillo advised underclassmen.
“Keep up the hard work and never give up on your goals,” Morales added.
Head Softball Coach Elias Martinez noted that he was very proud of this year's team. Then again, coming back from the playoffs as area champs and having a large group of players named to the All-District team would make any coach happy.
But placeCityMartinez would be lying if said it wasn't an emotional time to see his star seniors graduate after a successful season.
“We've had this group since they were freshmen and inexperienced players,” placeCityMartinez said. “It was an honor to coach them throughout the years, and there will definitely be some big shoes to fill in for next year.”
San Benito booted out of the playoffs
By PETE BANDA &
MICHAEL RODRIGUEZ
San Benito News
It was fun while it lasted.
Although the San Benito Lady 'Hound softball fans were ready to get their brooms out in hopes of a sweep Saturday after the team grinded its way to a 2-0 victory Friday night in game one of a third round, three-game series against Edinburg High, such hopes were quickly silenced.
Outstanding pitching and concentration led to San Benito getting to the shutout victory with senior Jo Ann Herrera shining once again; but on Saturday, the Lady Bobcats proved formidable as well … taking games two and three to move on in the series while the Lady 'Hounds were denied its shot at a fourth regional semifinals appearance.
In game one, the defensive battle started early as no team managed much offense in the opening innings. It wasn't until an array of walks from the Lady Bobcats pitcher that two scores went up for San Benito in the third inning.
Herrera played solid the entire first game with help from each of her teammates.
Squirt Flores, a sophomore, continued making spectacular plays in the game as she has done all year for San Benito. The victory put the Lady 'Hounds one win away from advancing to yet another round in the playoffs this year … the Lady Bobcats had other plans.
Coach Garcia recalls his San Benito basketball stint
By PETE BANDA
Special to the NEWS
The man responsible for one of the biggest turnarounds in the history of Valley basketball has decided to take the reins elsewhere, this after stepping down as San Benito Greyhound head basketball coach.
Roy Garcia, who led the Greyhounds to three playoff appearances in four years, will now be coaching at Southwest High School at PSJA.
Garcia took over a cellar-dwelling San Benito basketball program that most considered to be a joke and turned them into playoff contenders. “The change really started as soon as he got there,” said former Greyhound star Michael Preciado.
“He made us believe that we were better, and I don't think any coach could have done as good of a job as he did with our program,” Preciado added.
Garcia said he had some of the best times of his coaching career at San Benito. “The year we won the bi-district championship was probably one of the top five moments in my coaching career,” said Garcia. “I had some amazing times and I'll never forget any of the players or assistants.”
In his more than illustrious career, the man considered a Valley basketball legend has racked up more than 660 career wins in over 30 years and has impacted the lives of hundreds of players.
“I loved playing ball for him,” said former player Porfie Aguirre. “Playing for Coach Garcia was fun because he would teach us so much without taking the fun away.”
Although Garcia will not be back, he made clear the bonds he made in San Benito will always stay.
“I had planned to stay here in San Benito,” said Garcia. “But sometimes things don't work out and you have to just move on. But what we did here in San Benito was great, the program is respected now and I hold the best wishes for San Benito basketball.”
Among Garcia's other accomplishments in San Benito was starting a hoops camp for area youth, this as a means to begin instilling the sport at a younger age.
San Benito CISD Superintendent of Schools Antonio G. Limón said the district is prepared to undergo the interview process for a new head basketball coach. In the meantime, assistant coach Eddie Garcia will assume head coaching duties in an interim capacity.
Athletic Director Spencer Gantt said, “Coach Garcia did an outstanding job for us in getting San Benito back in the playoffs. We're sorry to be losing him, but he's moving on to a new opportunity.”
Gantt added, “Obviously, when you win the games they've won and go to the playoffs, I just want them to carry on the tradition they've had for the past six years of having a successful program.”
Lady 'Hounds take game one of regional quarterfinals
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The San Benito Lady 'Hounds were victorious Friday night over Edinburg High, winning 2-0 in game one of a best-of-three series to decide who advances to the quarterfinals. (Photo by Obed Longoria)
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By PETE BANDA
Special to the NEWS
San Benito Lady 'Hound softball fans can get their brooms out in hopes of a sweep Saturday after the Lady 'Hounds grinded their way to a 2-0 victory Friday night in game one of a third round three-game series against Edinburg High.
Outstanding pitching and concentration led to San Benito getting to the shutout victory with senior Jo Ann Herrera shining once again.
The defensive battle started early as no team managed much offense in the opening innings. It wasn't until an array of walks from the Lady Bobcats pitcher that two scores went up for San Benito in the third inning.
Herrera played solid the entire game with help from each of her teammates.
“That's what happens when we go out there and trust each other and make all the basic plays,” said head softball coach Elias Martinez. “We played almost perfect defense out there, and that's why we won.”
It was clear the Lady 'Hounds were focused and ready to claw their way to a win any way possible. “It was really good to see the team play together like that,” said team manager Omar Barron. “San Benito can get their brooms out if we play another game like this.”
Squirt Flores, a sophomore, continued to make spectacular plays in the game as she has done all year for San Benito. The victory puts the Lady 'Hounds one win away from advancing to yet another round in the playoffs this year. Game two will be played in Edinburg Saturday at noon with game three, if needed, to be played 30 minutes later.
Lady 'Hounds fall in game one but come back to win series
By MICHAEL RODRIGUEZ
Managing Editor
sanbenitonews@sbcglobal.net
SAN ANTONIO - Although the San Benito Lady 'Hounds fell short of a victory in game one of the area round of the state softball playoffs on Friday, they came back to take the series on Saturday.
The team took the field at 7:30 p.m. in San Antonio Friday to take on the San Antonio Southwest Lady Dragons. The first three innings went scoreless, but Head Softball Coach Elias Martinez said clutch hitting on the part of the Lady Dragons changed all that in the fourth.
“They scored two runs in the fourth inning and one run in the fifth. They came up with the clutch hits and we didn't,” said a disappointed Martinez after the team's 3-0 loss.
The coach didn't take anything away from Southwest, noting that the team poses a strong pitching game and solid defense; but he attributed the loss to problems at-bat.
“They were good, but they just came up with the clutch hits and we didn't. We played well defensively, we just didn't hit the ball well,” Martinez said, adding, “We were hitting the ball, but we just hit it at people. Now we have to come back strong.”
San Benito doesn't have a choice but to come back strong as the team will take to the field again on Saturday, May 8 at 5 p.m. for game two. Friday's loss, however, forces the 'Hounds into a must-win situation as San Benito needs to claim both games two and three to advance in the playoffs.
“We're going to have to bounce back tomorrow and take two games,” Martinez said confidently.
That's exactly what San Benito did as the Lady 'Hounds defeated Southwest 1-0 in game two and 2-0 in game three to take the series and advance to the quarterfinals.
SEVENTH GRADE
TRACK MEET
The Riverside Middle School Lady Bulldogs scored a total of 39 points in the district meet held in Los Fresnos on Thursday, April 22. In the 2400m run, Martha Peña ran a time of 9:57.10 and scored second place. Shantel Calderon ran a time of 11:10.88 and placed seventh. Amy Mares ran a time of 11:34.88 and scored eighth place. In the 800m run, Rachel Cuevas ran a time of 2:28.06 and placed fourth. In the 100m hurdles, Erica Treviño ran a time of 20.56 and scored sixth place. In the 100m dash Vanessa Moreno ran 15.09 and placed sixth. In the 400m dash Amy Mares ran 11:14.59 and placed fifth. In the 1600m run Martha Peña ran 6:17.91 and scored second place. In the 1600m relay Erica Treviño, Alejandra Galvan, Rachel Cuevas and Martha Peña ran a time of 5:09.03 and scored fourth place. In the triple jump, Erica Treviño jumped 27'6¼” and scored third place while Janette Torres jumped 26'10” and scored sixth place.
April 14, 2010 - Golf
DISTRICT 32-5A TOURNEY
The Greyhound golf team participated at this year's District 32-5A tournament at the Fort Brown Golf Course in Brownsville. The first round was rained out. The tournament was changed to a one-day tournament. The boys' first team totaled 356 points and came in fifth place overall. Johnny Espinoza scored an 81 and placed seventh overall. Jose Flores hit 82 and placed eighth overall. Jesse Roles scored 109, Jason Santana scored 95, and Johnnie Garza hit 98. The boys' second team totaled 429 points and came in 10th place overall. Antonio Banda scored 116, Nicolas Mendez scored 136, Timothy Moa scored 106, Allen Pope scored 98, and Gilbert Villarreal scored 109. For the girls' team, Sarah Hartman scored 118 and Larissa Gaytan scored 114.
Berta Cabaza, Miller Jordan trade victories at table tennis tourneys
Special to the NEWS
With a total of 24 students registered for a recent table tennis tournament at Berta Cabaza Middle School in San Benito, tourney organizers said it was encouraging to see so many students involved in the sport.
As parents looked on, the prior tournament, held at Miller Jordan Middle School, had the majority of the award ribbons won by Miller Jordan students. Now the winning school consisted of Berta Cabaza competitors.
The school teams are now tied with each school having a win apiece. In fact, Berta Cabaza and Miller Jordan competitors welcome other school teams to compete.
The Berta Cabaza Table Tennis Team won seven ribbons with a total score of 14 points and was the only school with two female players. Visitors from the Miller Jordan Table Tennis Team won five Ribbons with a total score of 10. Table Tennis Coach Bob Salmeron encouraged more participation from female competitors.
The other players who participated are K. Morales, C. Marquez, Y. Medina, M. Buenrostro, P. Harris, N. Briones, J. Sauceda, E. Buenrostro, R. Rodriguez, Andrew Pinon and M. Vega.
The Harlingen Table Tennis Club provided the umpires to oversee the games; they are Dave and Sharon Jackson, Dan and Fran Elkins and Bob and Ros Salmeron.
Parents interested in table tennis classes are asked to call Berta Cabaza Middle School at (956) 361-6600, Miller Jordan Middle School at (956) 361-6650, or the Afterschool Program at (956) 361-6450.
“It's a sport that will last your child a life time,” Bob Salmeron said.
Berta Cabaza, Miller Jordan trade victories at table tennis tourneys
Special to the NEWS
With a total of 24 students registered for a recent table tennis tournament at Berta Cabaza Middle School in San Benito, tourney organizers said it was encouraging to see so many students involved in the sport.
As parents looked on, the prior tournament, held at Miller Jordan Middle School, had the majority of the award ribbons won by Miller Jordan students. Now the winning school consisted of Berta Cabaza competitors.
The school teams are now tied with each school having a win apiece. In fact, Berta Cabaza and Miller Jordan competitors welcome other school teams to compete.
The Berta Cabaza Table Tennis Team won seven ribbons with a total score of 14 points and was the only school with two female players. Visitors from the Miller Jordan Table Tennis Team won five Ribbons with a total score of 10. Table Tennis Coach Bob Salmeron encouraged more participation from female competitors.
The other players who participated are K. Morales, C. Marquez, Y. Medina, M. Buenrostro, P. Harris, N. Briones, J. Sauceda, E. Buenrostro, R. Rodriguez, Andrew Pinon and M. Vega.
The Harlingen Table Tennis Club provided the umpires to oversee the games; they are Dave and Sharon Jackson, Dan and Fran Elkins and Bob and Ros Salmeron.
Parents interested in table tennis classes are asked to call Berta Cabaza Middle School at (956) 361-6600, Miller Jordan Middle School at (956) 361-6650, or the Afterschool Program at (956) 361-6450.
“It's a sport that will last your child a life time,” Bob Salmeron said.
Lady 'Hounds cement fourth straight district title
By PETE BANDA
Special to the NEWS
They say good things come in three, but for the San Benito girls track team, three just wasn't good enough.
In overwhelming fashion, San Benito won its fourth straight District 32-5A championship by racking up a total of 208 team points in Brownsville on Saturday.
Highlighted by two new school records and seven first place finishes, the track team had an outstanding district meet this past Saturday. In the 400-meter relay, the team of Kelly Dimas, Tina Valenzuela, Samantha Gonzalez, and Audrey Garcia not only took first place, but also broke the school record in the event.
The team of Esmer Sosa, Araceli Garcia, Dimas, and Garcia also broke a school record in the 800-meter relay, taking first place in the meet.
Valenzuela finished in first place in the 300-meter hurdles as well as the 100-meter hurdles and in the triple jump, this while taking second place in the long jump. Garcia finished second in the 100-meter hurdles. Sosa took the top spot in long jump and Dimas took the third spot. Dimas also won third in the triple jump. Amparo Martinez finished first in shot put and Lanie Evans won first place in the discus throw; Martinez finished second in discuss.
Maria Hernandez finished second in the 3200-meter run and CeJay Banuelos won second in the 800. Banuelos also finished third in the 400-meter dash and Hernandez took third in the 1600-meter run. The relay team of Vivi Abrego, Dimas, Gladys Sosa, and Banuelos took third place in the 1600-meter relay. With the win, the girls' team stands tall as the top track program in the Valley with four straight district titles.
“It shows how much harder we work and everything we put into the program,” said Dimas. “We worked too hard not to make it four straight.”
The boys track team did well at their meet, collecting a total of 66 team points, finishing fifth. Several athletes did qualify for the regional meet by finishing in the top three in their events. Chris Preciado qualified in multiple events, finishing first in the triple jump and long jump, and third in the 800-meter run. JC Guzman also qualified by finishing third in the 400-meter dash. Arturo Coronado, Cody Serna, Brandon Marquez, and Oscar Conde finished second in the 800-meter relay, qualifying them for regionals as well.
Lady 'Hounds second to none in District 32-5A track
By PETE BANDA
Special to the NEWS
BROWNSVILLE - The San Benito High School girls' track team began its District 32-5A meet in more than impressing fashion on Thursday.
In the preliminary, San Benito racked up a whopping 83 total points to take a commanding lead over the rest of the field as no other team even got up to 40.
In the field events Amparo Martinez placed first in the shot put and also finished second in the discus throw, while Lanie Evans placed first in discuss.
In the two-mile run, Maria Hernandez finished in second place and Audrey Garcia helped the team by finishing sixth in the high jump.
Both Tina Valenzuela and Esmer Sosa shined in their events as Valenzuela finished with a first place showing in the triple jump and second in the long jump while Sosa placed first in the triple jump. Kelly Dimas also did well, placing third in the triple.
With running events scheduled for Saturday, girls head track coach Danny De La Rosa believes his team is in a great position to win the meet.
“Our girls went out there and took care of business, so we have a great chance of getting our fourth straight (district title),” said De La Rosa, adding, “We're ahead by a good margin, so if we do as well as we should, we should be able to take the championship.”
The Lady 'Hounds have won three straight district titles entering this year and they are hoping to finish this meet holding the trophy again.
“It would be a perfect way to finish my senior year,” said Dimas. “Three in a row was great, but now we have to finish it with four.”
Editor's Note: It was reported Saturday that the San Benito Lady Greyhound varsity track squad walked away with its fourth straight district title, accumulating 208 points. Read the April 21 mid-week edition for more on this story.
Riverside girls' track team travels to Los Fresnos for meet
By PETE BANDA
Special to the NEWS
LOS FRESNOS - The Riverside Middle School seventh grade girls' track team recently competed at a track meet in Los Fresnos.
As a team, Riverside totaled 82 points and saw several individual athletes do well.
In the 2400-meter run, Amy Mares placed second, Shante Calderon placed third and Valerie De La Fuente placed fourth. In the 1600-meter run, Rachael Cuevas finished second, Elizette Rosales placed fourth and Stephanie Gonzalez got fifth place.
Alejandra Galvan placed fourth in the 400-meter dash and Esmeralda Ocampo placed sixth in her 100-meter dash. Vanessa Moreno, Janette Torres, Karina Garcia and Paulita Carrizales finished in third place in the 400-meter relay; the same team with Jennifer Torres in place of Garcia, got second place in the 800-meter relay.
Hilary Alvarado, Salma Rodriguez, Amanda Valdez, and Alejandra Galvan placed fourth in the 1600-meter relay. Jennifer Torres finished fourth in the triple jump and Janette Torres placed fifth. Kassandra Lopez placed fifth in the shot put.
Medina heads to national wrestling competition
By MICHAEL RODRIGUEZ
Managing Editor
sanbenitonews@sbcglobal.net
It's no secret. Benjamin Medina is good.
The 17-year-old varsity Greyhound wrestler secured a trip to a national wrestling competition in Florida on June 24, this after winning gold at the Rio Grande Valley All-Star Tournament in Mission on Saturday.
“To tell you the truth, I knew I had a good chance of getting first place at the tournament,” Medina said while exuding confidence in an interview with the News. And why not? Medina has earned it.
The grappler first wrestled in the 171 pound weight division, but after six weeks he bulked up to the 181 pound division and wrestled on Saturday weighing 185 pounds. There was a five-pound allowance that made Medina eligible.
“I just started to eat well, worked out every day, and practiced with my teammates. So all that helped me to bulk up a lot,” Medina said.
Such strength, Medina added, helped him place first at the All-Star tourney. “I packed on a lot of muscle and got stronger. So once I got to 185, I felt way stronger than my opponent,” he noted.
Not bad for a guy whose first full season as a grappler was this year.
In fact, Greyhound wrestling coach Rudy Quilantan said Medina has shown a lot of discipline and was impressed with how quickly the athlete picked up the sport.
“He put on a lot of weight and muscle by working a little harder with the weights; he even moved up one weight class,” Quilantan said. “He's very dedicated. Imagine if he had a little more wrestling experience, but he already picked it up really well; the technique, flexibility and endurance … everything.”
Still, Medina credited Quilantan for his guidance, stating, “It's because of him (Quilantan) that I'm in this position.”
“I also give thanks to all my teammates,” Medina added.
Tennis team has strong showing at district meet
By PETE BANDA
Special to the NEWS
The San Benito Greyhound varsity tennis team wrapped up its District 32-5A meet by placing in the top three in four out of five events.
The girls' doubles team of Esmer Casas and Lori Guerra finished third in district while Naomi Lyra also finished third in the girls' singles division. In boys' singles, Eddie Galvan also came in third.
The highlight of the day for varsity was the mixed doubles team of Anthony Benavides and Michelle Garcia, both placing second and moving on to the regional tournament in San Antonio.
The two have been teammates for several years now and will hope to advance past regional play this year.
In the Junior Varsity division, Stephanie Casas placed third in girls' single play and the team of Edgar Palomino and Angela Shagun finished in third as well in the mixed doubles division.
In the girls' doubles, the team of Chelsie Garza and Van Hurtado came in first place, winning the gold medal. In ninth grade boys' singles, Esteban Casas won second place and Kayla Canales also placed second in the girls' singles division.
The mixed doubles team of David Mendoza and Kassie Limas took gold, finishing in first place. For the tournament, Lyra and Galvan were named to the All-District list in their singles division while the mixed doubles team of Benavides and Garcia and the girls' double team of Esmer Casas and Guerra were also named to the list.
'Hounds suffer heartbreak at home
By PETE BANDA
Special to the NEWS
Coming off an impressive victory last week, the San Benito Greyhound baseball team failed to make it two in a row by losing their game on Tuesday night against the Brownsville Hanna Golden Eagles.
San Benito took an early lead but couldn't maintain and ended up losing by a score of 13-11.
The Greyhounds had a big boost in the opening inning when C.J. Carrizalez hit his third homerun of the season to give San Benito a 1-0 lead after the first. Hanna tied things up in the second inning, but the 'Hounds seemed ready to pull away, scoring four more runs in the inning off an RBI from Dan Garza and Ralph Eguia. Jacob Puente added two more runs with his double to make it 5-1 in favor of San Benito after two innings of play.
The Golden Eagles stayed in it, adding two more runs in the third, slowly chipping away at the lead. Hanna made then made its move in the fourth inning, capitalizing on several mistakes by the Greyhounds and adding four runs to its score as a result. After Hanna took a 7-5 lead, they never looked back and only started to build on the lead after that point.
Going into the final inning, the Golden Eagles held a commanding 13-8 lead, but it looked like San Benito was set to make a comeback when Dillon Jones brought it to just a two-run game at 13-11. The 'Hounds, however, could not keep the momentum going and ultimately dropped the game.
Senior Brandon Marquez, who is recovering from Lasik surgery but still played in the game, was not happy with his individual performance or the team's. “I feel like I could have done a lot more today, and it was such a close game at the end. It's a hard one to lose” said Marquez. “Hopefully we can regroup and get a win in the next game.”
San Benito will next travel to Brownsville on Friday to take on Lopez. Game time is at 7 p.m.
San Benito underclassmen compete at district meet
By PETE BANDA
Special to the NEWS
BROWNSVILLE - At the junior varsity District 32-5A track meet in Brownsville, the San Benito Greyhounds placed fourth as a team with a combined 80 points.
The 400-meter relay team of Noe Lopez, Ernie Sandell, Anthony Lopez, and Rene Torres placed third and also placed third in the 800-meter relay. Billy Herrera placed third in the 400-meter dash and Noe Lopez placed second in the 200-meter dash. In the field events, Rudy Longoria placed first in the discus throw and Jacob Puente placed first in the high jump while Anthony Lopez placed third in the same event.
The freshman team placed fourth at its district meet with a total of 58 points. Gabriel Noyola finished second in the 110-meter hurdles and Sammy Medina won the gold in the 400-meter dash. Jesus Jimenez got third in the 3200-meter dash and Jacob Ledesma finished in third place for the pole vault.
At the middle school level, the seventh grade girls' track team from Riverside racked up a total of 83 points at their meet on April 1 in Harlingen. Martha Peña won gold in her 2400-meter run and Vanessa Moreno picked up the silver medal with her second place finish in the 100-meter dash. Paulita Carrizales finished in third place in the 200-meter dash and Peña added more gold in the 1600-meter run. Amy Mares won third in the same event. Peña culminated an excellent showing by finishing third in the long jump.
San Benito eyes fourth straight district title
By PETE BANDA
Special to the NEWS
With three straight district titles under their belt and their eyes on a fourth, the senior girls of the varsity track program in San Benito have established themselves as a legitimate Valley dynasty.
Kelly Dimas, Tina Valenzuela, Bianca Garza, Samantha Gonzalez, Araceli Garcia, Audrey Garcia, Amparo Martinez, and Mariela Sanchez have all been a part of the girl's squad becoming an intimidating force.
In fact, it's been since 2007, when the athletes were freshmen, that no school in District 32-5A has kept up with the Lady Greyhounds.
“It's no secret why we've had so much success,” said track coach Danny De La Rosa, adding, “It's all hard work. When these girls were younger it was a little harder to get them going, but as the years passed they actually ended up being the ones to push each other to go a little harder.”
De La Rosa initially served as an assistant on the track team until last year, when he became the head of the girls program. “I've seen them win all three of their titles and hopefully this year we can make it four,” added De La Rosa.
The athletes agreed.
Gonzalez said, “We have a very strong belief that we can get that fourth one (district title) this year.”
“We already set the standard here and created a tradition,” added Dimas. “We made sure that everyone in the Valley knows what to expect from us as soon as our bus pulls up.”
Dimas has been a major part of the team, running in the 400, 800, and 1600-meter relays as well as competing in the long and triple jump. Garza has been formidable as well.
“We have definitely made this program more well-known around the Valley,” said Garza. “Other teams know that when we show up, they are in for some competition.”
“We expect to be successful this year again,” added Araceli Garcia, “We are ready for whatever this year brings us.”
At the Raymondville track meet on Thursday, April 1, the Lady 'Hounds were again victorious, this time by racking up 162 team points for a first place finish. Esmer Sosa placed first in the 100-meter dash and the long jump, Audrey Garcia placed first in the 100-meter hurdles, and Evans placed second in the discus throw.
Martinez placed second in the shot put and Dimas placed first in the triple jump as well as third in the long jump. The team of Dimas, Sosa, Gonzalez, and Araceli Garcia placed first in the 400-meter relay; the team of Sosa, Dimas, Audrey Garcia, and Araceli Garcia placed first in the 800-meter relay and the team of Dimas, Vivi Abrego, Joy Banuelos, and Araceli Garcia scored first in the 1600-meter relay.
Greyhound track squad competes in Raymondville
By PETE BANDA
Special to the NEWS
RAYMONDVILLE - The San Benito Greyhound varsity track team recently competed at a Raymondville track meet on Thursday and did well as a team, scoring 61 total points with several athletes placing in their events.
Senior Chris Preciado had an outstanding night, placing second in two events, third in another and finished fifth in his fourth event.
In the 400-meter relay, the team of Arturo Coronado, Cody Serna, Noe Lopez, and Oscar Conde placed sixth; then they went on to place third in the 800-meter relay. In the mile relay, the team of JC Guzman, Oscar Yanez, Sammy Medina, and Preciado finished in fifth place.
Guzman did well in individual events, placing second in the 100-meter dash and fifth in the 400. Conde placed third in the 200-meter dash and Preciado placed third in the 800-meter run for San Benito.
Andre Evans threw far enough to finish fourth place in the discus throw and Preciado placed second in both the long and triple jumps.
Lady 'Hounds continue dominating ways
By PETE BANDA
Special to the NEWS
Once again the San Benito Lady 'Hound softball team came out victorious on Thursday night, defeating the Hanna Lady Eagles by a score of 11-3.
The highlight of the night came in the sixth inning when Kacey “Stretch” Sanchez capped off the game with a homerun sent over the left field fence.
San Benito wasted no time, setting the tone early in the first inning and never letting up. Senior pitcher Joann Herrera actually got the scoring started when her triple brought in two runs in the opening inning. Squirt Flores added to the scoring streak with her RBI double, and then Jackie Elizondo rounded out the inning with an RBI of her own to make it 4-0 after just one inning of play.
Hanna looked ready to make a game of it in the second inning by scoring two quick runs. The Lady 'Hounds defense however, stepped up mightily and got out of the inning with no more damage done.
Yesy Penablanca delivered an RBI when she stepped up to the plate to make sure San Benito maintained a comfortable lead at 5-2 after two innings.
Sanchez and Jaynee Morale both brought in runs in the third while Herrera didn't allow any. The scoring fell off the next few innings till the sixth inning came. Sanchez stepped up to the plate and delivered in a very big way.
With one strong swing of her bat, the sophomore sensation hammered the ball straight over the fence, bringing in two runs in the process. Hanna managed to add one meaningless run at the end but San Benito had already wrapped up the game. With the win, the Lady 'Hounds now stand at 6-1 in District 32-5A as they hope to capture another district title.
With great defense from the whole team, Flores and Garza stood out on the night with each having spectacular catches. The San Benito Greyhound baseball team didn't have much trouble dismantling their opponents and racked up their second district win this season.
The San Benito baseball team also picked up a much-needed win, beating Hanna 13-3.
LFCISD narrows down list of head coach applicants to five
Special to the NEWS
LOS FRESNOS - Los Fresnos CISD announced the five finalists for the Athletic Director/Head Football Coach position.
After interviewing several of the applicants, five finalists have been selected for the final round of interviews.
The finalists are Kirk D. Doll, Clint Finley, Jaime Infante, Tony Johnson, and Jason Wheeler.
Doll is currently the tight end coach and special teams coordinator for Texas A&M, a position he has held since 2008. Doll played defensive end for East Carolina University and went on to coach as an assistant at Texas City High School, not to mention the college and professional levels. Doll has previously been on the coaching staffs of the Denver Broncos, Notre Dame, and LSU and was part of the team that won the 2003 National Championship.
Finley is the current defensive coordinator and head track coach for Victoria Memorial High School where he has coached since 2007. Finley is a gold medalist state champion hurdler who quarterbacked his team to the state championship while at Cuero High School. He started as a free safety at the University of Nebraska and played on the 1997 National Championship Team. After college, Finley played safety and special teams for the Kansas City Chiefs for three years and also spent a short time with the Dallas Cowboys. Finley has coaching experience at Cleburne, Ganado and Schulenburg high schools, as defensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.
Infante, the current Lyford CISD athletic director and head football coach has been with the Bulldogs since 2002, where he has had great success with the program, advancing in the playoffs for six of the eight years. Last season, his team finished in first place with an 8-0 record. He also has coaching experience with Rio Grande City, Port Isabel and Falfurrias.
Johnson is originally from Kansas and currently works as the offensive line coach and college recruiting coordinator for South Grand Prairie High School. Johnson also has college and high school coaching experience. He has worked as an offensive coordinator and offensive line coach for TCU, Texas A&M Kingsville, and Graceland College. He is a motivational speaker that also owns a company which brings NFL and Division One college players to youth football camps in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas.
Wheeler, the current interim head coach for Los Fresnos has been with the district since 2006. He has been the defensive coordinator for the Falcons working with former head coach Scott Ford to produce championship teams in three of those four years. At least four players from these championship teams have gone on to play on Division One college teams. Wheeler played college football at Southeastern Oklahoma State University and went on to coach the defensive backs there for two years. Wheeler also has coached at Austin Travis, Southside in San Antonio and Jacksonville High School.
Finalist interviews will be conducted through March 27. Los Fresnos CISD Superintendent Gonzalo Salazar will make a recommendation to the board of Trustees on April 5.
Powerlifters take top spots at state tournament
By PETE BANDA
Special to the NEWS
Dub these girls the first.
For the first time in the history of San Benito High School girls powerlifting, an athlete placed at the state tournament in Corpus Christi on Saturday.
Make that three athletes.
In fact, two girls took the gold while a third had the gold taken away after an improper lift, but still claimed the silver.
Sophomores Gina Elizondo (silver) and Alexandria Marmolejo (gold) along with senior Lanie Evans (gold) all made history for San Benito becoming the first state champions ever to come out of the Resaca City. “I was very proud of them,” said Lady 'Hounds powerlifting coach Laura Gonzalez. “We all knew that these girls had it in them.”
Gonzalez doesn't take all the credit for leading the girls to their success, as she noted fellow coach Mike Evans' role as significant during the season. “None of this could have been done if it wasn't for him,” added Gonzalez. “He's like the brains behind the operation, he was such a huge part in getting this far.”
Evans, in her second year as a powerlifter, finished with the gold medal after outlifting the second place finisher by more than 50 pounds. “I was really more relieved than anything after I finished the lift,” said Evans. “Just the fact that all my hard work finally paid off almost made me cry ... my dreams became a reality.”
Despite the fact that Elizondo took the silver, it was obvious to everyone at the meet that she earned the gold. “She had the gold, it was hers, but the judges didn't agree with the way she did her last lift,” said Gonzalez.
“I was a little disappointed at first, but it's just motivation to come back next year even harder,” said Elizondo.
Along with Elizondo, Marmolejo is also a sophomore who impressed everyone at the meet, including herself. “I didn't know I could take the gold, but all the hard work did end up paying off,” Marmolejo said.
With both Marmolejo and Elizondo coming back for two more years, Gonzalez and coach Evans agree that the future is bright for both of them. “Two more years to go for both of them,” Gonzalez said with a smile.
Taekwondo students kick-start grand opening
By MICHAEL RODRIGUEZ
Managing Editor
sanbenitonews@sbcglobal.net
Students of Kang's Taekwondo literally kick-started its grand opening in San Benito on Saturday with a display of highflying, wood-breaking maneuvers that would've made any martial artist proud.
Henry Sanchez, the head instructor at Kang's in San Benito, said that although the grand opening was held March 20, the school has been in operation for the last two weeks. In fact, Sanchez, who also happens to be a San Benito High School assistant principal, said Kang's already instructs 25 students.
Kang's offers taekwondo classes to people ages four and up. Classes are divided by age; four to eight year olds are scheduled from 6-7 p.m., nine to 13 year olds are slated from 7-8 p.m., and 14 year olds and up come in from 8-9 p.m.
“They learn the art of taekwondo, a Korean art which teaches self-defense, physical fitness, discipline and self-confidence,” Sanchez said of Kang's Taekwondo.
The demonstration exhibited as much. More experienced students from Kang's Taekwondo in Brownsville put on a show for the San Benito class and their parents and relatives in attendance, this as a sort of taste of what to expect if students remain dedicated and disciplined. Some were so skilled that they performed 360-degree crescent kicks with relative ease, not to mention split kicks all while breaking boards in the process.
Still, Sanchez maintained that while there is a sense of self-satisfaction rooted in the ability to perform such maneuvers, he stressed that control is key.
“Taekwondo is the art of kicking and punching. It's used for self-defense. It is an Olympic sport. People, in learning to kick and punch, also strengthen their muscles and ligaments, which makes them more able to move better. But on the philosophical side, it should only be used in self-defense purposes, and the overall is to help people feel better about themselves as well,” Sanchez added.
The head instructor said he first studied taekwondo almost 20 years ago after graduating from the University of Texas at Brownsville/Texas Southmost College, where he received a Masters degree in education as well as degrees in Kinesiology and History.
He encouraged not only the youth to participate in the classes but all those who wish to learn taekwondo.
Kang's is open from 5:30-9:15 p.m., Monday-Thursday. For more information, call Kang's Taekwondo at (956) 361-4900.
HOUNDS HIGLIGHTS MARCH 17
BROWNSVILLE LEGENDS
TRACK MEET
The San Benito Greyhound boys' varsity track team received a total of 46 points at the Legends Track Meet held at Sam's Stadium in Brownsville on Friday, March 12. Arturo Coronado, Sammy Soria, Brandon Marquez, and Oscar Conde placed fourth with a time of 44.28 in the 400m relay. Coronado, Soria, Marquez, and Tommy Herrera placed fifth and timed at 1.35.53 in the 800m relay. Sammy Medina, Oscar Yanez, Herrera and Chris Preciado placed fifth and timed at 3.38.19 in the 1600m relay. Preciado placed second and timed at 2.03.67 in the 800m run, fifth with a time of 52.08 in the 400m run, second with a jump of 42'5” in the triple jump not to mention a 20'7 ½” long jump. Yanez timed a 2.09.92 in the 800m run. Medina timed a 2.15.10 in the 800m run and timed a 54.98 in the 400m run. JC Guzman placed sixth and timed at 11.59 in the 100m dash, fourth and timed at 51.53 in the 400m run, and fourth with a time of 23.11 in the 200m dash. Rene Torres timed a 12.00 in the 100m dash. Soria placed sixth with a time of 23.49 in the 200m dash, jumped 37'¼” in the triple jump and 19'¼” in the long jump. Torres timed a 24.19 in the 200m dash and failed to clear the pole vaulting opening height. Andres Garcia threw 37'0” in shot put and 100' in discus. Rudy Longoria threw 35'6” in shot put and 103' in discus. Coronado jumped 36'8' in the triple jump and 18'10” in the long jump.
March 11, 2010 - Boys Track
JV LOS FRESNOS MEET
The Greyhound junior varsity (JV) boys' track team scored a total of 119 points when they attended a meet held in Los Fresnos on Thursday, March 11. Noe Lopez, Ernie Sandell, Anthony Lopez, and Cody Serna placed first timed at 46.59 in the 400m relay and first with a time of 1.39.37 in the 800m relay. Billy Herrera, John Ramos, Lopez and Becerra placed fourth and timed at 3.53.16 in the 1600m relay. Becerra placed first and timed at 11.05.30 in the 3200m run and first with a time of 4.59.61 in the 1600m run. Kevin Garza timed a 20.44 in the 110m hurdles and placed fifth with a time of 51.08 in the 300m hurdles. Ricardo Ortiz timed a 21.20 in the 110m hurdles and placed sixth with a time of 51.73 in the 300m hurdles. Jacob Jaime timed a 21.95 in the 110m hurdles and 51.56 in the 300m hurdles. John Ramos timed a 2.27.21 in the 800m run. Serna placed first timed at 11.46 in the 100m dash and third with a 36'9” jump in the triple jump. Sandell placed fourth and timed at 12.09 in the 100m dash. Herrera timed a 57.35 in the 400m dash. Drew Robinson timed a 56.15 in the 400m dash. Lopez placed third with a time of 24.20 in the 200m dash. Lopez placed second with a jump of 18'3” in the long jump and second with a jump of 5'0” in the high jump. Memo Covarrubias placed fourth with a throw of 39'0” in shot put and 92' in discus.
March 11, 2010 - Boys Track
FRESHMEN LOS FRESNOS
MEET
The Greyhound freshmen boys' track team tallied a total of 91 points at the Los Fresnos meet held on Thursday, March 11. Enrique Rodriguez, Raul Luna, Rene Chavez, and Adrian Zuniga placed second and timed at 48.31 in the 400m relay and first with a time of 1.42.15 in the 800m relay. Abel Aguilar, Jesse Jimenez, Johnny Huerta, and Edward Fragoso placed sixth and timed at 4.06.00 in the 1600m relay. Jimenez placed fifth and timed at 11.42.13 in the 3200m run. Fragoso placed sixth and timed at 12.10.30 in the 3200m run and timed a 60.16 in the 400m dash. Aguilar placed seventh and timed at 2.33.07 in the 3200m run and timed a 61.23 in the 400m dash. Jacob Ledesma placed fifth and timed at 20.03 in the 110m hurdles, fourth with a time of 49.10 in the 300m hurdles, fourth and timed at 12.31 in the 100m dash and cleared 9' in the pole vault. Gabriel Noyola placed sixth and timed at 20.76 in the 110m hurdles and fifth and timed at 48.54 in the 300m hurdles. Jimenez placed sixth and timed at 2.29.56 in the 800m run. Huerta placed seventh and timed at 2.31.20 in the 800m run. Abraham Nava placed eighth with a time of 2.33.07 in the 800m run and timed a 64.20 in the 400m dash. Nava also placed seventh and timed at 5.42.09 in the 1600m run. Juan Torres timed a 12.90 in the 100m dash, a 25.63 in the 200m dash and placed first with a jump of 36'8” in the triple jump. Eric De La Garza timed a 13.40 in the 100m dash. Enrique Rodriguez timed a 25.08 in the 200m dash. David Jurado ran a time of 26.65 in the 200m dash and cleared 9' in the pole vault. Chavez placed second with a 38'3” throw in shot put. Jesus Robles placed first with a 106'5” throw and Julio Rivas placed second with a 93'5” throw in discus. Luna jumped 17'2” in the long jump.
Greyhound baseball team turning heads with winning record
 By PETE BANDASpecial to the NEWS
A year after coach Mike Young took over a disappointing San Benito baseball team, the once less-than-stellar club is now standing at 9-5 overall and 1-0 in District 32-5A play.
Last year was the start of the big turnaround as the Greyhounds finished the season one win away from a playoff berth.
This year, the 'Hounds have been turning heads and have looked impressive in all their tournaments so far. “We're doing pretty good this year, I think the kids are getting used to the system and it's really showing,” said Young. “We're not going to be the doormat of the district anymore.”
Two years ago, before Young came into the picture, San Benito was at the bottom of District 32-5A and one of the least respected teams in the Valley, but Young has changed that.
“Now we actually go into a game expecting to win,” said three-year varsity member Brandon Marquez. “We have confidence now and we want to win.”
With a 9-5 record, San Benito has established themselves as a solid team this year but, Young knows it's still not enough. “As long as I'm here, I want the San Benito team to be seen as one that has a lot of talent and can compete with anyone,” said Young. “It's important for us to make sure that we stay winning not only this year but in the future as well. Hopefully we can become a perennial playoff contender.”
With 13 more district games to go, the next one being Wednesday night in San Benito, the Greyhounds have a long way to go before they can wrap up their first playoff berth in years, but the 1-0 start is indeed a positive to build on. “It feels good to be undefeated in this district,” said Marquez, adding, “Even if it is only one game.”
PHOTO CREDIT: San Benito Greyhound Trey Villarreal is shown at a recent baseball game. The 'Hounds have recently been turning heads with their winning ways. (Photo by T.J. Tijerina)
First-ever table tennis tourney held at Miller Jordan
By DANIEL CLAUDIO
Special to the NEWS
Miller Jordan Middle School played host to its first table tennis tournament this past week and had a great turnout for the experimental event.
It was reportedly the first time a table tennis tournament held at the school. Such was accomplished with assistance of Nelda Gonzalez and Terry Padilla, San Benito CISD coordinators who along with the Bob Salmeron, table tennis coach, organized the tournament.
Organizers of the event were humbled seeing kids showcase their table tennis skills and what they have learned in these past few months.
The parents and spectators in attendance witnessed their children performing in a sport that provides healthy activity and does not have a bearing on height, weight or strength.
The experiment of the sport could interest children of all ages and perhaps one day put table tennis in the athletic department for children at the middle school and high school levels to compete in.
Middle schools from around the area competed in a single elimination tournament and two students from Berta Cabaza went home with a place ribbon.
In group one, Kameron Perez took home the third place ribbon. In group two, Frankie Velez ran away with the first place ribbon as he showcased the best skills in his group division of the afternoon. Also winning first place was Rusty Lopez (group one) and Pedro Coronado (group three). Earning second in group one was Kenneth Morales; Emilio Leal (group two) and Oscar Ruiz (group three). Other than Perez, winning third was Carlos Portales (group two) and Eulalio Buenrostro (group three).
Sportsmanship, player conduct on the court and respect for other players/students is instilled in the students. When they meet their competitor at the table prior to commencing with their match, they greet each other and shake hands. When they conclude their match (win or lose), they again shake hands with their opponent as well as the umpires and assistants who are members of the Harlingen Table Tennis Club and who volunteered to keep score for the players.
PLAY BALL! Opening ceremony for youth league held
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The San Benito Youth Baseball and Softball League (SBYBSL) held its annual opening ceremony at Stookey Park on Saturday. (Photo by T.J. Tijerina)
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By STACEY GONZALEZ
Special to the NEWS
It's a beautiful day to play baseball,” boomed the announcer over the crackling speakers.
The Stookey ballpark rumbled with cheers and applause for the all-stars patiently waiting to be called out with their teammates. The sun peeked over the clouds, and the youth of San Benito was more than ready to play some ball.
On Saturday March 6, the San Benito Youth Baseball and Softball League (SBYBSL) celebrated the start of a new season with its annual baseball/softball opening ceremonies.
Thousands attended as little league players as well as city officials were in attendance. The ceremony festivities began at 9 a.m. with a welcoming. Pastor Jesse Garcia then recited a prayer to bless the teams with a successful and injury-free season.
Five-year-old softball player Amya Benavidez ran onto the field to sing her rendition of the National Anthem. Prior to introducing all the teams, area dignitaries offered some words of wisdom to the kids and gratitude to all the parents and relatives that help make leagues, such as these, possible.
“It takes $30 to maintain a person who is in jail. Why not spend $15 on signing them (kids) up with the league,” said Cameron County Sheriff Omar Lucio.
Baseball parent Melissa Rosales agrees. “I have my son in baseball because it helps keep him out of trouble,” she said.
After city officials rallied the crowd with reasons why kids should continue to pursue playing America's favorite pastime, the board officers and members received a formal introduction to the rest of the baseball community.
A sea of brightly colored children filled the field, each one anxiously waiting to march across the field with their team. The introduction of the teams came next, beginning with the Pee-Wee division. After all Pee-Wee teams had been called, the announcer alternated between calling forth the Pony softball and baseball teams.
Parents and community members alike attended to show support for their children and the sport. SBYBSL President Peter Avila, who is in his first year at such capacity, can attest to the successful turnout and growing support for the event in the years to come.
“I think it's been a good turnout. The players have their uniform and are ready to play ball. We do these events for them. The youth are our future, and baseball is what grounds us. I've played here since I was five, and it's nice to come back where it all started,” Avila said.
Leaving aside the smell of the grass or the feel of a broken-in glove, people have their reasons why they love baseball. Many youth in San Benito show a genuine appreciation for the game.
“My favorite part about softball is playing as a team and meeting new people. I hope to one day be a Lady Greyhound on the softball team … playing ball,” said softball player Sarah Gonzales.
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