Historic Marinelli Field Hosting USA Baseball Event

The Rockford Foresters announced today that historic Marinelli Field will play host to USA Baseball's Great Lakes region of the National Team Identification Series (NTIS) on June 21 & June 22.  The two-day event will be one of six different locations being held across the Midwest and will serve as the first location.

 The selection tryout at historic Marinelli Field is a way for kid's to be named to the Great Lakes 13U, 15U and 17U teams.  The three teams will then ultimately compete in their respective age groups against 12 other regions from across the country in the NTIS, September 9-11, 2011, at the USA Baseball National Training Complex in Cary, N.C.  All of this is a path to become one of 32 players to be invite to future 14U, 16U and 18U National Team Trials with the ultimate goal of being selected to represent our country as part of Team USA...

READ THE STORY: http://www.rockfordforesters.com/news/?article_id=110

Spark Energy Presents Guaranteed Win Night

The Rockford Foresters announced that Spark Energy will be sponsoring a guarantee win night at the Rockford Foresters this season for the game on Saturday, June 25.  In addition to the guarantee win night, the 25-person party deck at historic Marinelli Field will be called the Spark Energy Party Deck.

The guarantee win promotion for the Rockford Foresters' game on Saturday, June 25 guarantees all fans in attendance that the Rockford Foresters will win.  If the Rockford Foresters don't win, everyone in attendance at the game will walk away with a free ticket for a Rockford Foresters game between July 5 and July 10.

Everyone is a winner right now anyway though.  Spark Energy offers a fixed-rate for 12 months at a rate of 6.98 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh), a rate that is 16 percent lower than ComEd's electricity supply rate for residential consumers and 13 percent lower for small business customers.  To learn more or to switch, visit www.SparkEnergy.com.

READ THE STORY: http://www.rockfordforesters.com/news/?article_id=111

Rockford Speedway Photos from 05.28.11 | Rockford Speedway

Visit the link below to see the photos...

READ THE STORY: http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/467

Indy 500 Recap - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois - Sports Director Scott Leber recaps Sunday's thrilling Indy 500...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=255097

Marian Ends Belvidere's Season

Marian Central knocks off the Bucs with a 6 to 3 win at Belvidere High School...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Marmian_Ends_Belvideres_Season__122784154.html

Gille holds off Reynolds Jr. for first win of 2011 at Rockford S - WREX.com

LOVES PARK, Ill. (Saturday, May 28th, 2011) -- Jerry Gille didn't have his engine, didn't have the fastest car, and didn't have much of a lead with five laps remaining Saturday at the Rockford Speedway. And yet, none of that really mattered because in the end, the former two-time Stanley Steemer NASCAR Late Models champion did what he often does, fending off a hard charging Jon Reynolds Jr. to find his way back to victory lane for the first time in 2011...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14748178

Boylan bests Hononegah 7-6 - WREX.com

ROCKFORD, IL (WREX) - Boylan took the rubbermatch of their season series with Hononegah and captured the regional championship in the process...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14745714

Walleck goals, strong defense help North shutout BHS

BELVIDERE – Belvidere North played strong defense on their way to shutting out Belvidere 3-0 in a cross-town girls soccer match May 10 at Belvidere High School.

The game was scoreless as both teams had the ball at times until the 21st minute. Belvidere North's Kaitlynn Ryan scored on a pass from Lizeth Tamayo...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6578:walleck-goals-strong-defense-help-north-shutout-bhs&catid=120:boone-county-sports&Itemid=494

Riverhawks win 5-4, Eigsti's hit streak reaches 9 - WREX.com

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – Matt Zoltak combined with the Rockford bullpen on a five-hitter Sunday as the RiverHawks beat the Traverse City Beach Bums, 5-4. Zoltak (1-0) struck out six, walked one and held the Bums to two runs, one earned, on four hits over seven innings for the win. Brett Durand got the last four outs for his third save...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14748184

Chris Gill: Unrealistic expectations on this holy day for race fans - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Do you have a neighbor or family member who's a big race fan? Yes? Then leave them alone today. Seriously, don't call to invite them to a cookout; try not to text them a picture of the adorable thing your dog did; and for the love of Mario Andretti, under no circumstances are you to even think about dropping by for a casual vacation weekend chat...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x556412511/Chris-Gill-Unrealistic-expectations-on-this-holy-day-for-race-fans

Wheldon wins Indy 500, Patrick finishes 10th - WREX.com

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Dan Wheldon ended up second in the previous two Indianapolis 500s and was seconds away from another runner-up finish today before taking the checkered flag on the 100th anniversary of the race...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14748166

Boylan Baseball Wins Regional Title - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois- The Boylan Titans clinch a Regional Championship after beating Hononegah 7-6...

READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=255007

Bush, Missiles bust Broncos - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Lanark, Ill. — Milledgeville pitcher Emily Bush had a hug for just about everyone in Milledgeville after helping lead her Missiles to a 4-3 Lanark Sectional final win over Orangeville...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x724657526/Bush-Missiles-bust-Broncos

Lessman’s first homer, walkoff grand slam, stuns Aquin - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Lena, Ill. — Reid Lessman couldn't have picked a much better time to hit his first home run of his career.

The walkoff grand slam completed Eastland's (23-5) rally for a sectional title as the Cougars stunned Aquin, 9-6...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x800622910/Lessman-s-first-homer-walkoff-grand-slam-stuns-Aquin

Belvidere North Softball Wins Regional Crown - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinios- Belvidere North beat Freeport 4-3 to take home regional crown...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=255017

Genoa-Kingston ends North Boone’s baseball season

HARVARD – North Boone was in control of its destiny May 19 in the semi-finals of the Harvard Regional baseball tournament.

Top-seeded Rockford Lutheran, the defending champion and favorite to win again, had been upset the day before by the host Hornets. That meant the Regional title was up for grabs...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6586:genoa-kingston-ends-north-boones-baseball-season&catid=101:north-boone&Itemid=503

Blue Angels Cancellation Update - MyStateLine.com

(Rockford, Illinois) Rockford Airfest lovers got some bad news Friday, when the Blue Angels, the main attraction of the air show, cancelled. The Navy jet team cancelled their appearance after a safety concern during a show last weekend...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=255037

State Hog Rally boosts Rockford businesses - WREX.com

ROCKFORD (WREX) -Motorcycle riders hop on their hogs in Rockford for a rally that draws 1,000 people from across the state. Road Captains for the Illinois Hog Rally took off from the Clock Tower Resort for a practice run. The event chair says it familiarizes them the route that goes along the Rock River and around the Byron Nuclear Power Plant...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14745933

World class table tennis players compete in Rockford - WREX.com

ROCKFORD (WREX) -Outdoor sports are in full swing but the indoor competition is heating up as well. World class table tennis players are in Rockford for America's Team Championships. People from all around the globe came to play at the Forest City Tennis Center...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14745947

RiverHawks’ rally falls short in 4-2 loss

LOVES PARK, Ill. – Lake Erie closer Ruben Flores survived Rockford rallies in the eighth and ninth innings to finish the Crushers' 4-2 win at Road Ranger Stadium.

Flores pitched the last four outs for his second save of the season. The RiverHawks left runners at the corners in the eighth. In the ninth, they rallied for a run, but left the bases loaded...

READ THE STORY: http://ism.infinityprosports.com/Components/Emailer2/MailSendViewer.php?OnlineEmailID=7716&ID2=350

RiverHawks drop Crushers

LOVES PARK, Ill. – Rookie Matt Greener had three hits and Rockford took advantage of four Lake Erie errors Wednesday as the RiverHawks beat the Crushers, 13-7, at Road Ranger Stadium.

The RiverHawks' first six runs were unearned, including the five they scored in the second inning to break a 1-1 tie. Greener led off with a single to right field. Reno Malay hit a likely double-play grounder to shortstopAndrew Davis, but Lake Erie second baseman Chase Fontaine dropped Davis' throw. Luis Parache followed with a sacrifice-bunt attempt, and Fontaine, who covered first base on the play, again dropped a throw to load the bases. Caleb Curry and David Cooper followed with RBI groundouts. With two outs, Freddy Parejo doubled in a run, Jeremy Hamilton singled and Jake Eigsti singled in two. The RiverHawks led the rest of the way...

READ THE STORY: http://ism.infinityprosports.com/Components/Emailer2/MailSendViewer.php?OnlineEmailID=7715&ID2=350

Giants promote former RiverHawk Dowdy to AAA

LOVES PARK, Ill. – Justin Dowdy is back in Class AAA.

The San Francisco Giants promoted the left-handed pitcher to their top farm team, the Fresno Grizzlies, last week. Dowdy made his Fresno debut last weekend in a pair of relief appearances against the New Orleans Zephyrs.

He's 0-1 with a 6.75 earned-run average in the Pacific Coast League. Dowdy took a 5-2 loss on Sunday.

Dowdy began the season with Class AA Richmond of the Eastern League. He was 4-0 with an 0.82 ERA and a save. He averaged nearly a strikeout an inning in 12 appearances...

READ THE STORY: http://ism.infinityprosports.com/Components/Emailer2/MailSendViewer.php?OnlineEmailID=7713&ID2=350

Magic Waters ready to open for the summer - WREX.com

Some new ways to stay cool this summer await you at Magic Waters this season.

The waterpark officially opens for the season on Saturday. Today park officials will be showing off a few new features at the park during media day...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14738444

Rockford park still closed because of storm damage - WREX.com

ROCKFORD (WREX) -Shorewood Park is still closed from damages suffered in Sunday's storms...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14717854

Rockford selected to pilot new tennis program | The Rock River Times

The United States Tennis Association's Midwest Section announced that Rockford, Ill., has been selected to pilot a new adult tennis program. As part of the pilot program, anyone 18 and older can receive a free tennis lesson that will be held from 7-8:30 p.m., June 10, at the Guilford Tennis Center, 5702 Spring Creek Road. Participants will have the opportunity to experience tennis for the first time, sharpen their existing tennis skills, and check out the exciting, fast pace of Cardio Tennis...

READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/05/25/rockford-selected-to-pilot-new-tennis-program/

Blue Angels at Rockford Airfest in Question - MyStateLine.com

It's an undeniable thrill at the main event navy planes soaring thousands of feet above the ground. But now, their plan for Airfest is also "up in the air"...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=254627

NIU set for return to MAC baseball tournament - WREX.com

DeKALB, Ill. - No. 4-seeded Northern Illinois will face No. 5-seeded Eastern Michigan on Wednesday, May 25, at 8 a.m. CT to open up the 2011 Mid-American Conference Baseball Tournament, held at VA Memorial Stadium in Chillicothe, Ohio...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14699295

Burch wins Gold Medal Classic - WREX.com

BYRON, IL (WREX) - Eric Burch won the 2010 golfer of the year award and his quest for a repeat is off to a good start. Burch won the Gold Medal Classic ...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14699343

International table tennis tourney features Rockford competitors - WREX.com

ROCKFORD (WREX) - There's some local talent in an international competition coming to Rockford.

Rockford Area Venues and Entertainment Executive Director Gordon Kaye and 13-year-old Tyler Born will both compete in the America's Team Championship Table Tennis event ...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14701955

Live Severe Weather Information

(6:33:41 PM) nwsbot: DVN: S Freeport [Stephenson Co, IL] emergency mngr reports TSTM WND GST of M60 MPH at 06:32 PM CDT —
(6:35:04 PM) nwsbot: DVN: 1 E Milledgeville [Carroll Co, IL] trained spotter reports TSTM WND GST of E60 MPH at 06:13 PM CDT — branches down.

6:31pm – Spotter is 4 miles NNE of Stockton, IL (Jo Daviess county) [42.400/-89.980] — 54 MPH wind Gust 6:22pm during thunderstorm.

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://addins.wrex.com/blogs/weather/2011/05/storm-reports-and-information

First Warn Weather Team: Severe Weather Chat

Severe Weather Chat from First Warn Weather, follow the link below...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://firstwarnweatherteam.blogspot.com/2011/05/severe-weather-chat_22.html

Sargent’s Strong Start Continues with Gilley’s Win as Leaders Falter at Rockford | Rockford Speedway

LOVES PARK, Ill. (Saturday, May 21st, 2011) – Tim Sargent bucked the trend; he's been doing that a lot lately. The defending Stanley Steemer NASCAR Late Models champion surged to the front of the 30-lap main event with a daring maneuver on young Michael Bilderback, taking over the top spot with 15 laps remaining and surviving heavy lapped traffic to grab his second straight win...

READ THE STORY: http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/463

Byron repeats as state champions - WREX.com

CHARLESTON, IL (WREX) - The Byron Tigers girls track and field team capture their second straight 2A state title on Saturday at O'Brien Stadium in Charleston. Byron won the title by 6 points over Walther Lutheran...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14691783

Cougars hand Snappers 4th straight loss - WREX.com

BELOIT, WI - The month of May hasn't treated the Snappers well and it continued Saturday night at Pohlman Field. The Kane County Cougars used a four-run first inning to beat the Snappers 6-5. The Snappers fall to an even .500 record (21-21) and have lost four straight games...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14691960

Manville sets NIU baseball wins record - WREX.com – Rockford’s News Leader

KALAMAZOO, Mich. - With plenty of offensive support, Northern Illinois starter Tony Manville earned his ninth win of the season to tie the NIU single season wins record as the Huskies took the rubber match, 9-4, of a three-game Mid-American Conference regular season-ending series against Western Michigan at Robert J. Bobb Stadium Saturday afternoon...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14691972

Corey Konieczki leads Gold Medal Classic; Benjamin one back - WREX.com – Rockford’s News Leader

BYRON, IL (WREX) - Corey Konieckzi leads the Gold Medal Classic after firing an even par 72 in the first round at Prairie View golf course. Five players are tied for second one shot back...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14691842

Pryme Tyme Ballers Dazzle Auburn High Crowd

The Pryme Tyme team includes local stars like Fred Van Vleet and Lamark Foote of Auburn and Marcus Posley of Winnebago...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Pryme_Tyme_Ballers_Dazzle_Auburn_High_Crowd__122399274.html

Kubb Tounament Hits Rockford

Tons of teams gathered to play the game which is described as a cross between horseshoes and bowling. It involves throwing wood sticks to knock over wood pillars...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Kubb_Tounament_Hits_Rockford__122399114.html

Stillman Valley Wins Regional Title - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois - Stillman Valley Defeats Byron 7-4 to take home the Stillman Regional Title. The Cardinals now get set to take on Harvard next Wednesday for the sectional title...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=253787

Bulldogs win first regional title - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Freeport, Ill. — The Aquin baseball team has played plenty of games coming from behind this season.
But on Saturday the Bulldogs earned the lead early and never trailed, beating Orangeville 10-1.
Aquin (14-6) captured its first-ever regional baseball championship with the win and advances to the Lena Sectional semifinals against War/Stock on Wednesday at 6:45 p.m...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1555989044/Bulldogs-win-first-regional-title

Broncos walk past Dakota - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

South Beloit, Ill. — All season the Orangeville softball team has been able to swing and run its way to wins.
At Saturday's South Beloit Regional finale, all the Broncos had to do was walk to a win, as Orangeville topped Dakota 3-1 for a regional championship. The Broncos had 11 walks and one hit batsmen, negating the one hit Orangeville had...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1950127131/Broncos-walk-past-Dakota

Forreston tops Genoa-Kingston for regional title - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Genoa, Ill. — Whether it's Class 1A or 2A, Forreston doesn't seem to care.
A year after winning a 1A sectional title, Forreston collected a 2A regional title with a 2-0 win over Genoa-Kingston Saturday.
The Cardinals, who are co-oping with Polo for the first time this year, had to play the Cogs (25-1) on their home field for the championship. But Forreston coach Charles Born said he never considered his team an underdog...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1495156466/Forreston-tops-Genoa-Kingston-for-regional-title

Buckwalter wins state title in discus - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Freeport sophomore Bryn Buckwalter made the most of her final attempt in the discus Saturday at the state 2A girls track meet.
Buckwalter unleashed a school-record throw of 125 feet, 9 inches to capture the state title.
"This is too much to handle," she said of the championship...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x31868218/Buckwalter-wins-state-title-in-discus

Exhausted doubles team fades in state qualifier - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Freeport, Ill. — Brandon Meier and Aaron Cummins had to give it just about all they had against Keith School's doubles team. It was the same team that beat the Pretzels just two days earlier. Unfortunately for the Pretzels, that match was before their state qualifying match against Lutheran...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x31867459/Exhausted-doubles-team-fades-in-state-qualifier

Freeport finally tops Sycamore in postseason - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Rochelle, Ill. — Freeport soccer coach Nick Namio has won plenty of boys and girls soccer regionals during his tenure as coach of the Pretzels.
But even Namio was hard-pressed to think of a regional championship that was sweeter than the one the Pretzels earned on Friday as Freeport topped Sycamore 4-2...

http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x31867461/Freeport-finally-tops-Sycamore-in-postseason

Belvidere North pitches shutout in cross-town baseball game

LOVES PARK - Belvidere North beat city rivals Belvidere in the cross-town matchup at Road Ranger Stadium. The game was really tight until the fifth inning when North stepped out in front of the Bucs and took control of the game. Despite the game being scoreless until the fifth, North took the win over their rivals by a 9-0 margin. The game started off as a defensive standoff. North's starting pitcher Josh Rayphole was dominant from the mound and really limited the Bucs' chances...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6554:belvidere-north-pitches-shutout-in-cross-town-baseball-game&catid=120:boone-county-sports&Itemid=494

Belvidere shows resilience in defeating Auburn

ROCKFORD – The Bucs once again didn't have much time to regroup after a disappointing loss to cross-town rival Belvidere North. Earlier this season they let a lead slip away in a 9-7 extra inning loss. But they rebounded two days later to defeat Auburn, 6-1, behind the pitching of senior left-hander Adam Budron...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6563:belvidere-shows-resilience-in-defeating-auburn&catid=99:belvidere&Itemid=501

Sun Prairie Beats Knights - Beloit Daily News

Brianna Shultz of Beloit Memorial cuts loose with a fastball against Sun Prairie Friday at Lanning Field. Shultz kept the Knights at 2-2 through seven innings, but the Cards exploded for three in the eight...

READ THE STORY AND SEE PHOTO AT: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/05/21/sports/local_sports/sports2103.txt

Indians edge Boylan for regional crown - Beloit Daily News

ROCKFORD — Right before Natalie Prescott could even say anything, her teammates handed her the IHSA Class 3A Rockford Boylan Regional plaque. "You're taking this home," one teammate said...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/05/21/sports/local_sports/sports2101.txt

Two HHS girls reach finals in state 3A track - Beloit Daily News

HARLESTON, Ill. — Individually, the Hononegah Indians did well Friday. The relays, however, were left as cheerleaders on Saturday.

Both the Hononegah 400-meter relay and 1,600 relay failed to advance out of Friday's preliminaries in the IHSA Class 3A State Track and Field Championships at O'Brien Stadium on the Eastern Illinois University campus...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/05/21/sports/local_sports/sports2102.txt

Sectional Track - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-Winnebago and Rockford Christian were the top teams in the Boys Class 1A Rockford Christian Sectional Friday night. Winnebago was led by sprinter Marcus Posley.  He won the 200 meter dash and anchored a pair of relays...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=253757

Cleaver Signs With Cardinal Stritch

Former Dakota and RVC star Alexys Cleaver signed two letters of intent today to play volleyball and softball at ...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Cleaver_Signs_With_122375279.html

RiverHawks shutout Beach Bums in season opener - WREX.com – Rockford’s News Leader

The Rockford RiverHawks returned to the Frontier League with a bang Friday evening. Rockford's only professional baseball team scored a run in the first inning and never looked back, defeating the Traverse City Beach Bums 6-0 on Opening Night at Road Ranger Stadium...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14689298

Blackhawks Sign Crawford - MyStateLine.com

The Chicago Blackhawks have agreed to terms with goaltender Corey Crawford on a three-year contract.

Crawford, 26, paced rookie goaltenders with 33 wins (33-18-6), tied for rookie lead with four shutouts and ranked eighth among National Hockey League netminders with a 2.30 goals-against-average during the 2010-11 regular-season...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=253357

Royals To Join Big Northern - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-Rockford Christian High School is moving up to a bigger challenge.  The school will join the Big Northern Conference beginning in the 2012-13 school year. The Royals were accepted into the Big Northern Thursday morning by a vote of the Big Northern Board of Control (principals)...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=253387

Ford Signs With Highland - MyStateLine.com

Oregon, Illinois-Oregon basketball standout Sam Ford has signed with Highland Community College in Freeport. Ford led the entire Rockford area in scoring last season by averaging 27 points per game...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=253367

Wichman New Freeport Coach - MyStateLine.com

Freeport, Illinois-Freeport School District #145 will welcome a new football coach to lead the Pretzels following the retirement of Coach Terry Werntz at the end of the current school year...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=253377

Harlem's Elmore signs with NIU - WREX.com

MACHESNEY PARK (WREX) – Derek Elmore built an impressive resume with the Harlem Huskies wrestling program over the last four years.  When he goes to college, he'll remain a Huskie, only this time of the NIU variety...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14672763

Athlete of the Week: Rockford Christian's Bryn and Haley Kittle - WREX.com

ROCKFORD, IL (WREX) - Rockford Christian's Bryn and Haley Kittle helped lead the Royal Lions soccer team to their first NAC championship and second regional title with their outstanding offensive seasons...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14670422

James leads Heat past Bulls, 85-75 - WREX.com

CHICAGO (AP) -- LeBron James came up big down the stretch and scored 29 points, Dwyane Wade added 24 and the Miami Heat beat the Chicago Bulls 85-75 Wednesday night to tie the Eastern Conference finals at one game apiece...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14673895

Kittle sisters lead Royals to title - WREX.com – Rockford’s News Leader

ROCKFORD (WREX) – The Kittle sisters got it done once again for the Rockford Christian girl's soccer team.

Bryn Kittle scored two goals, while sister Haley added another tally as the Royal Lions defeated Stillman Valley 3-0 to claim a class 1A regional title Tuesday night...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14665583

Artwork a tribute to 100 years of Black Hawk Statue | The Rock River Times

OREGON, Ill.—The Oregon Trail Days Festival Committee has commissioned a distinctive work of art to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Black Hawk Statue, created by famous sculptor Lorado Taft. The work of art by watercolor artist Jody Bergsma is called "Eternal Spirit," and features Black Hawk, Tipis and eagles. Prints will be sold at the May 20 "Cowboy Up for Black Hawk" event, sponsored by the festival committee...

READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/05/18/artwork-a-tribute-to-100-years-of-black-hawk-statue/

Teaching kids to win in basketball and life | The Rock River Times

Winning can make a lot of things better for a coach and a player. So there is little doubt Steve Goersspread his fair share of cheer as a head coach boys' basketball coach at Rockford's Boylan Catholic High School.

But beyond the wins are the lives that are affected by an iconic coach who was an institution at his school for 30 years...

READ THE STORY: http://rockrivertimes.com/2011/05/18/teaching-kids-to-win-in-basketball-and-life/

Huskies Excel In Classroom - MyStateLine.com

DeKALB, Ill. – The 2010 season was a record-setting one on the field for the Northern Illinois football program.  On Tuesday, NIU learned that its performance in the classroom also put the Huskies into an elite category as Northern Illinois was one of only 14 Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) football teams honored..

READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=252557

Auburn Signings - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Ilinois-Two members of Auburn's record-setting boys basketball team have made their college choices.  Taivious Ford has decided to attend Kishwaukee Community College.  Anthony Strickland will attend Central Wyoming...

READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=252667

Golf Tip - MyStateLine.com

Boone County, Illinois-Timber Pointe Golf Club teaching pro John Swenson brings us this weeks tip.  This one deals with club and ball positioning...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=252657

Danica Patrick Interview - MyStateLine.com

Indianapolis, Indiana-Danica Patrick is getting ready for her seventh Indy 500 later this month. WTVO's Scott Leber has covered Patrick at Indy all seven years...

SEE TH INTERVIEW: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=252207

District 100 announces summer sports camp registration details

BELVIDERE - The following is a list of upcoming camps available during the summer of 2011. Additional information and registration forms can be found at www.district100.com/bhs/index.html and boonecountysports.com. If there is not a camp listed for a particular sport, feel free to contact the coach via e-mail for information...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6547:district-100-announces-summer-sports-camp-registration-details&catid=116:youth-sports&Itemid=522

Belvidere to induct four into football hall of fame

BELVIDERE – Belvidere High School has announced the latest inductees into the Buc Football Hall of Fame. The Buc Football Hall of Fame was founded in 2009 in an effort to establish pride, preserve tradition and honor former student athletes and coaches who distinguished themselves on the football field through performance and representation of Belvidere High School...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6544:belvidere-to-induct-four-into-football-hall-of-fame&catid=99:belvidere&Itemid=501

Edgerton’s Schulte knocks off slumping Trojans: Turner’s Andrews fans 14 - Beloit Daily News

Beloit Turner's baseball team finds itself in a bit of a tailspin, dropping its fourth straight game, 4-3, in eight innings to visiting Edgerton Monday.

The Trojans dipped to 8-6 in Rock Valley Conference South Division play.

Ace Austin Andrews went seven innings for the Trojans and struck out 14 batters, but he surrendered all four runs and was saddled with the loss. He was outdueled by Edgerton senior Bryant Schulte, who tossed a three-hitter with seven strikeouts. He allowed three runs, but none of them earned...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/05/17/sports/local_sports/sports1703.txt

Knitro girls set to host fundraisers - Beloit Daily News

The Beloit Knitro girls soccer team will not only host two games this week at Jacobson Field, but both will be fundraisers. Tonight, the Knitro host Sun Prairie with the fundraiser to benefit Families of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). There will be a 50-50 raffle, a prize raffle and the sale of t-shirts and other SMA items...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/05/17/sports/local_sports/sports1702.txt

NIU qualifies for MAC baseball tourney with win over Ball State - WREX.com

DeKALB, Ill. - With the help of seven runs in the fifth and sixth innings and an eight-run eighth, Northern Illinois took down Ball State 18-8 on Sunday afternoon at Ralph McKinzie Field during Senior Day...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14649650

icehogs.com: Blog Hogs - The Final Migration Of The Mallards?

In what's becoming almost an annual event, last week the Quad City Mallards of the Central Hockey League announced that they were suspending operations. Now raise your hand if you even realized that the Mallards were, still around, let alone in the CHL...

READ THE POST: http://www.icehogs.com/news/blog/index.html?entry_id=350

IceHogs Raise Over $110,000 During 2010-11 Season

Rockford, Ill.- With the 2010-11 season in the books for the Rockford IceHogs, the American Hockey League team had another outstanding season in the community.

During the club's 12th season of professional hockey in Rockford and fourth in the AHL as the top affiliate of the National Hockey League's Chicago Blackhawks, the IceHogs and their generous fans helped raise $111,250 through the IceHogs Charitable Foundation...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/IceHogs_Raise_Over_110000_During_2010-11_Season__121963399.html

Illinois AD Guenther Retiring After 19 Years

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (AP) -- University of Illinois Athletic Director Ron Guenther says he decided to retire this summer to increase the odds his replacement is chosen by people who understands the history of the school's sports...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Illinois_AD_Guenther_Retiring_After_19_Years_121963229.html

Rehfeldt Picks Columbia - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-Rockford Christian distance runner Justin Rehfeldt will be logging miles in New York the next four years.  He has signed a letter of intent with...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=252237

Gomes' HR rallies Reds over Cubs 7-4

CINCINNATI (AP) -- Jonny Gomes hit his first homer in nearly a month Monday night, completing a seven-run rally that swept the Cincinnati Reds to a 7-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs, ending Carlos Zambrano's long run of road success...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Gomes_HR_rallies_Reds_over_Cubs_7-4_121966554.html

Belvidere North softball cruises to 10-0 win over East

BELVIDERE - It was simply a blowout as Belvidere North's varsity softball faced Rockford East.

Everything was clicking for the Thunder as they soundly defeated their conference rival 10-0 in five innings.

North started the scoring with a bang, when Holly Hilden blasted a solo home run in the bottom of the second inning giving the Thunder a 1-0 lead. Despite the early solo shot home run, the Blue Thunder got off to a rather slow start as they then went scoreless in the third inning.

http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6542:belvidere-north-softball-cruises-to-10-0-win-over-east&catid=100:belvidere-north&Itemid=502

Blair begins quest for the majors - WREX.com

BELOIT, WI (WREX) - The St. Louis Cardinals took former Rock Falls ace Seth Blair with the 46th overall pick in last June's Major League draft. Blair's first stop in pro baseball is with the Quad Cities River Bandits...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14656164

We're Back!

After a couple days of web hosting outage and cleaning up duplicate posts, we're back on-line.

Bulls Look to Clinch Series

ATLANTA (AP) -- The Chicago Bulls can close out the Atlanta Hawks in their best-of-seven NBA playoff tonight. The visiting Bulls top the Hawks three games to two...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Bulls_Look_to_Clinch_121706199.html

Luecke nets three goals, Pretzels top Harlem - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Machesney Park, Ill. — Freeport sophomores Ashley Alexander and Julia Luecke grew up practicing soccer in Luecke's backyard. Alexander practiced throw-ins, while Luecke practiced tracking them down.

"With Julia, she knows where the ball's going to go and how to get a foot on it," Alexander said. "I can just chuck it, I guess..."

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x600909334/Luecke-nets-three-goals-Pretzels-top-Harlem

Blue Thunder breaks out big bats vs. Pretzels - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Belvidere — Freeport tried to pitch around Holly Hilden, Belvidere North's best hitter. But the Pretzels couldn't avoid the rest of North's offense.

Every North batter had at least one hit in Wednesday's 10-2 home win against Freeport. North remains tied for first place in the conference with defending champion Hononegah...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x401379825/Blue-Thunder-breaks-out-big-bats-vs-Pretzels

Marcos take meet - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Forreston, Ill. — It may have been an end of the year relay meet, but that didn't mean the Polo/Forreston boys track and field team was going to take the Forreston Relays lightly.

The Marcos looked as impressive as they have all season, winning Wednesday's meet with 137 points...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x1058162190/Marcos-take-meet

North Boone opens Regional softball play Tuesday

POPLAR GROVE – North Boone's softball team will open play at the Durand Regional tournament at 7 p.m. Tuesday against the winner of Monday's first-round game between Christian Life and the host club...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6524:north-boone-opens-regional-softball-play-tuesday&catid=101:north-boone&Itemid=503

Cougars, Roth slip by Vikings - Beloit Daily News

ORFORDVILLE — The Rock Valley South Conference championship has come down to four teams and two weeks.

Coming into Tuesday, Beloit Turner, Clinton, Parkview and Palmya-Eagle were either at the top of the conference or within a game of each other...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/05/11/sports/local_sports/sports1102.txt

Prep Baseball - Trojans rip P-E to stay tied for 1st: Turner, Clinton will play Thursday - Beloit Daily News

PALMYRA, Wis. — The Beloit Turner baseball team knows what wins over Palmyra-Eagle and Clinton would do to their Rock Valley South Conference championship aspirations.

"It would put us in the driver's seat," Turner coach Ryan Bertelsen said.

After Turner's 14-5 romp over Palmyra-Eagle on Tuesday, the Trojans are halfway there, tied with Clinton atop the conference with a huge showdown against the Cougars Thursday in Beloit...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/05/11/sports/local_sports/sports1103.txt

The Concert Parking Announcement | Rockford Speedway

The Concert Parking Announcement

As of May 11, 2011

FRIDAY

The Main Parking Lots will open at 3pm, use Gate #2 off of Forest Hills Rd….Parking in the main speedway lot is FREE. Additional parking is available at the Harlem Community Baseball Diamonds just south of the Speedway on Forest Hills Rd, this express lot is $10 per car. Do not park in neighboring lots as you will be towed. Again, Main Speedway Lots open at 3 Friday afternoon, use Gate 2 off of Forest Hills Rd. Motorcycles, Handicap and those being dropped off at the concert utilize Gate 4 located at the Intersection of Illinois one seventy three and Burden Rd. As a reminder, all tailgating activities must stop once the music begins. Utilize these parking areas only, car pool and have fun at the concert.

SATURDAY

The Main Parking Lots will open at 10am, use Gate #2 off of Forest Hills Rd….Parking in the main speedway lot is FREE. Additional parking is available at the Harlem Community Baseball Diamonds just south of the Speedway on Forest Hills Rd, this express lot is $10 per car. Do not park in neighboring lots as you will be towed. Again, Main Speedway Lots open at 10am Saturday morning, use Gate 2 off of Forest Hills Rd. Motorcycles, Handicap and those being dropped off at the concert utilize Gate 4 located at the Intersection of Illinois one seventy three and Burden Rd. As a reminder, all tailgating activities must stop once the music begins. Utilize these parking areas only, car pool and have fun at the concert...

READ THE STORY: http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/460

First list of pro golfers for this year's PRO/AM released - WREX.com

Tournament organizers release the list of golfers who will be taking part in the 35th annual tournament.

D.A. Points, Troy Matteson, Stacy Lewis, Brittany Lang, Tommy Gainey, Brett Wetterich, Bill Lunde, Kyle Stanley, Ken Duke, Brian Mogg, Rod Pampling, Colt ...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14569192

Athlete of the Week: Byron's Tait Rauen - WREX.com

BYRON (WREX) – The Byron baseball team is on the verge of at least a share of another Big Northern West baseball title, and the Tigers are in this position thanks to a pair of clutch outings by pitcher Tait Rauen...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14627920

Cubs Put Soto On DL - MyStateLine.com

CHICAGO – The Chicago Cubs today placed catcher Geovany Soto on the 15-day disabled list with a left groin strain and recalled catcher Welington Castillo from Triple-A Iowa...

READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=251237

Golf Tip Video - MyStateLine.com

Boone County, Illinois-Timber Pointe Golf Club teaching pro John Swenson brings us his second tip of the season.  This one on having the proper stance...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=250937

Adult Hockey - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-An adult hockey team in Rockford known as Rockford Bear Minimum is looking forward to a big week at the USA Adult Hockey Classic in Kalamazoo, Michigan. See the video for details...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=250957

DeKalb stops Belvidere North’s softball winning streak

BELVIDERE - After two blowout wins on consecutive days, the Belvidere North Lady Thunder tasted defeat when they faced DeKalb High School and lost by a final of 6-0.

On a windy day, North had a hard time overcoming an amazing performance from the mound by DeKalb's pitcher who was absolutely on fire. With North being handled so efficiently by DeKalb's defense, the Thunder only had a few chances to make their mark on the game, but their efforts fell short...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6515:dekalb-stops-belvidere-norths-softball-winning-streak&catid=100:belvidere-north&Itemid=502

Beto Starts Strong - MyStateLine.com

Flossmoor, Illinois-Rockford golfer Chris Beto is off to a strong start at the Illinois State Mid-Amateur Championship at the Flossmoor Country Club...

READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=250947

North Boone baseball gearing up for Regional

POPLAR GROVE – Winning the Big Northern Conference East baseball championship is beyond the reach of North Boone High School. Victories have been hard to come by this season yet head coach Deon Dinsmore is hoping for a run at the upcoming Harvard Regional tournament.

For that to happen his team "will have to play better; we have to come ready to play," he said Saturday, after the Vikings dropped a non-conference doubleheader to Clinton, Wis., 11-0 and 10-7. "It comes down to pitching. We can't give up five runs early and expect to win...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6516:north-boone-baseball-gearing-up-for-regional&catid=101:north-boone&Itemid=503

Rockford Park District Board elects leaders - WREX.com – Rockford’s News Leader

ROCKFORD (WREX) -  The Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners will stay under the leadership of its current president. Jack Armstrong was re-elected for a second term to the position...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14621150

Bulls drop Hawks, take 3-2 series lead - WREX.com

CHICAGO (AP) -- Derrick Rose scored 33 points, Luol Deng added 23 and the Chicago Bulls beat the Atlanta Hawks 95-83 in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Tuesday night to take a 3-2 lead...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14621714

Long week of softball catches up with North Boone

POPLAR GROVE – The month of May generally came in like a lion for North Boone's varsity softball team, both in the unseasonably cool weather and having a six-game week.

As the days wore on the Lady Vikings (6-13, 2-4) fell before a depleted Harvard squad, 15-1, then lost the following afternoon to a strong Burlington Central contingent, 12-2. Both were Big Northern Conference East games...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6512:long-week-of-softball-catches-up-with-north-boone&catid=101:north-boone&Itemid=503

Thunder softball sinks Vikings with 20-0 shutout

BELVIDERE- A day after North varsity softball crushed Auburn 24-0, the Thunder were back at it with a huge 20-0 victory over the Rockford Guilford Vikings. The game against the Vikings was almost a replay of the game the previous night, with North taking a huge first inning lead and winning in five innings due to the mercy rule...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6511:thunder-softball-sinks-vikings-with-20-0-shutout&catid=100:belvidere-north&Itemid=502

Pretz rally to 10-run Guilford - The Journal-Standard

Freeport, Ill. — The first year of Freeport's Breast Cancer Awareness event went off without a hitch Monday. And judging by the way both teams played, individuals who pledged for runs scored and walks to the Leonard Ferguson Cancer Foundation could give a hefty donation for the softball game...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x242759030/Pretz-rally-to-10-run-Guilford

Seventh-inning rally falls short for Pretz - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Freeport, Ill. — The Freeport baseball team can't seem to catch a break.

The Pretzels nearly pulled off a rally Monday after being down seven runs after seven innings.
Freeport scored five runs in the seventh and had the tying runs on base, but a fly ball caught by Guilford's right fielder with two outs ended the game, 7-5.

The Pretzels gave up three runs in the first inning as starter Grant Kutzke struggled early...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x242759028/Seventh-inning-rally-falls-short-for-Pretz

Olson leads Missiles to NUIC title - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Milledgeville, Ill. — Brittny Olson was going to do all she could Monday to help lead the Milledgeville/Eastland girls track and field team to an NUIC title.
Olson did it all, winning the long jump, 100, 200 and 400 as she was named meet MVP, leading the Missiles to the conference title.
"Now that it's done, I feel good," Olson said after winning her fourth and final event, the 200...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x173166568/Olson-leads-Missiles-to-NUIC-title

Stewart coasts to Late Model win - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Freeport, Ill. — Brad Stewart took the lead at the drop of the green flag and never gave it away, as he took the Late Model feature at Freeport Raceway Park on Saturday.
Stewart was never pushed as he jumped to the lead, gradually pulled away and won by a wide margin.
Larson wins A-Mods...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x173166570/Stewart-coasts-to-Late-Model-win

Freeport athletes "strike out" cancer - WREX.com

FREEPORT (WREX) – Freeport High School hosted it's first ever "Strike Out Cancer" event Monday afternoon...

SEE THE STORY AND VIDEO AT: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14604089

Tire Reminder For Round I of Gilley’s Cool 5 Series | Rockford Speedway

Loves Park, IL- Race teams are reminded that Round I of the Gilley's
Cool 5 Series will take place on Saturday May 21 at Rockford Speedway.
No team in any division will be allowed to qualify or compete on more
than two fresh tires and those tires will be recorded into their bank
of tires for use at Rockford. Racing action will include the NASCAR
Stanley Steemer Late Models, Bargain Hunter Sportsman, Budweiser
American Short Trackers and Mtn Dew RoadRunners.


Gilley's, along with American Standard, Armstrong and York have put
this program together, with the 2011 Late Model Gilley's Champion
taking home $3500 cash for his efforts, both the Sportsman and
American Short Tracker Champions will win $2000 each while the
RoadRunner Champ earns a $750 bonus. The top three drivers in each
division will receive a share of the $12,500 established point fund.
For additional information visitwww.rockfordspeedway.com or contact
the Speedway Box Office at 815-633-1500...


READ THE STORY: http://rockfordspeedway.com/node/459

Win Free Airline Tickets From AllegiantAir - Rockford Foresters

The Rockford Foresters are happy to announce two brand new promotions for the 2011 season, which are both sponsored by AllegiantAir. The Vegas Giant Dice Toss and the Orlando Beach Race, which will both take place between two different innings during the 2011 season at each regular season home game. The winner of each in-game promotion will be given two tickets to the last game of the season and their names will be entered into a drawing with other winners of each of the promotions. At the last game of the 2011 regular season, the Rockford Foresters will pull a winner for the Vegas Giant Dice Toss promotion and the Orlando Beach Race promotion. Each winner will win a pair of airline tickets on AllegiantAir where ever they fly to from the Chicago Rockford International Airport.

READ THE PRESS RELEASE AND GET MORE INFORMATION AT: http://www.rockfordforesters.com/news/?article_id=106

Scarpetta Happy To Be Home - MyStateLine.com

Loves Park, Illinois-It's been seven years since Brett Scarpetta dominated the NIC-10 with his pitching ..

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=250587

Powell's Final Lap - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-It was one of the slower laps you'll ever see at the Rockford Speedway.  It was one that left a lump in the throats of most of the people in attendance.  A hearse carring the body of the speedway's long-time flagman Tom Powell took a lap...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=250577

Rockford Park District News and Summer Offerings

Find out what the Rockford Park District has to offer at... http://www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/

Foresters "Senatorist Night" July 16

The Rockford Foresters Baseball Team, a summer collegiate wood bat team in Rockford, announced this morning "Senatorist Night" where once missing Wisconsin State Senators are invited back to Rockford to once again be tourists on Saturday, July 16 at 6pm at historic Marinelli Field...

READ THE STORY: http://www.rockfordforesters.com/news/?article_id=105

Crush hopes to help sport grow in Freeport - Freeport, IL

Freeport, Ill. — The Freeport Crush softball program is only three years old, but in that time, the program has come a long way.

And if the program gets its wish, it will keep going even further in the years to come.

"In three years, we went from having 12 girls on one team to having 27 girls in the program," Crush co-founder Jacey Ensor said. "We've got girls from the area, and outside the Freeport community coming in town to play ball...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x173162718/Crush-hopes-to-help-sport-grow-in-Freeport

Panthers pound Cardinals in 5 - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Lena, Ill. — It took seven innings for Lena-Winslow to score seven runs Friday against Eastland.

It was much easier for the Panthers to produce runs against Forreston on Saturday.

And with the team travelling to Warren for a make-up game against War/Stock later in the day, Lena-Winslow welcomed a 17-5 win in five innings...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x767228305/Panthers-pound-Cardinals-in-5

Pretz place 3rd in invite - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Freeport, Ill. — Freeport tennis coach Ed Schradermeier was particularly pleased with his team Saturday as the Pretzels finished third in their own Invite, scoring 24 points.

Auburn won the invite, scoring 32 points...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x173162766/Pretz-place-3rd-in-invite

Late run sends Hawks past Bulls 100-88 - WREX.com

ATLANTA (AP) -- Josh Smith had 23 points, 16 rebounds and eight assists, and Jeff Teague came up with another big game to lead the Atlanta Hawks past the Chicago Bulls...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14596339

Konerko Gets 5 Hits, White Sox Beat Seattle in 10

SEATTLE (AP) -- Paul Konerko returned to the White Sox lineup and tied his career high with five hits, including a single in the 10th inning that helped Chicago beat the Seattle Mariners 5-2 Sun...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Konerko_Gets_5_Hits_White_Sox_Beat_Seattle_in_10_121476559.html

Body Building Championships - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois - Jefferson High School was the place to be for body building fans in the Stateline Saturday...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=250377

Illinois Jr. Boxing Championships - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois -  A big weekend of boxing over at the Patriots Gateway Ceter as they're hosting the Illinois Junior Boxing Championships...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=250387

Sargent Takes Home Checkered Flag At Rockford Speedway - MyStateLine.com

LOVES PARK, Ill. -- On the night before Mother's Day, fans and drivers alike ran the emotional gamut tonight at the Rockford Speedway...

SEE THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=250397

Boys and Girls Club Looking for Volunteers - MyStateLine.com

The Boys and Girls Club promises "to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens" and they need your help...

READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=250337

NIU on the short end of 1-0 pitcher's duel - WREX.com

YPSILANTI, Mich. - Northern Illinois starter Tom Barry posted eight scoreless frames against Eastern Michigan, but his opposition Joe Battistelli did him one better, as he twirled a complete-game shutout in a 1-0 victory over the Huskies in Game Two of a three-game Mid-American Conference West Division series on Saturday afternoon at Oestrike Stadium.  The series is now tied, 1-1...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14593407

Hononegah-Boylan Baseball - MyStateLine.com

Rockton, Illinois-Jake Lanning homered to lead Hononegah over Boylan 8-4 Thursday in NIC-10 baseball...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=250347

Rockford Forester 2011 Promotional Days

The Rockford Foresters Baseball Team announced today its promotional schedule for the 2011 season which includes giveaway items as well as select theme days. "During our second season at Historic Marinelli Field, we wanted to have promotions that were executed well and that people actually wanted to go to," said Majority Owner/President Joe Stefani...

READ THE STORY: http://www.rockfordforesters.com/news/?article_id=109

It’s huge night for Trojans - Beloit Daily News

CLINTON — Zach Sherrod and Quay Grace don't have to look far when it comes to competition in the 100 and 200 meters.

Some of their most competitive races might come at a Beloit Turner practice. Another exhibition was on display in Friday's 33rd annual Beloit Daily News Invitational at Clinton High School's track...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/05/07/sports/local_sports/sports0701.txt

Beloit can’t hang onto late lead, fall to Wisconsin, 4-3 - Beloit Daily News

The Beloit Snappers' generally dependable bullpen couldn't deliver Friday night as some sloppy defense led to the hosts squandering a 3-2 lead. The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers rallied for a 4-3 Midwest League victory at Pohlman Field.

Beloit was looking for a three-game sweep heading into the game and things seemed to be heading in that direction early on. Daniel Santana walked in the first inning and moved up when Rattler first baseman misplayed Jamaal Hawkins' ground ball...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/05/07/sports/local_sports/sports0703.txt

BelvidereNorth fights off cold weather, Auburn for 9-1 win

BELVIDERE- After playing yet another game in very cold conditions, Belvidere North's varsity baseball team must be wondering if baseball really is a spring sport.

The weather may have been cold, but the Thunder's bats were definitely heating up against the Knights. Although they conceded an early lead, the Thunder came back and dominated the rest of the proceedings and won in a landslide, 9-2...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6500:belviderenorth-fights-off-cold-weather-auburn-for-9-1-win&catid=100:belvidere-north&Itemid=502

Lady Bucs split double header with Hiawatha

KIRKLAND – Belvidere came up short in game one while convincingly beating Hiawatha in game two of a double header April 30.

In game one, the Lady Bucs took a 4-2 lead into the bottom of the sixth inning.

Junior Tegan Humphry held Hiawatha in check through most of the game, but struggled to get through the sixth inning. Hiawatha scored three runs in the inning on its way to a 5-4 win...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6499:lady-bucs-split-double-header-with-hiawatha&catid=99:belvidere&Itemid=501

Cougars survive Panthers rally after costly base-running mistake - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Lanark, Ill. — It looked like Eastland would finally defeat Lena-Winslow by a considerable margin.

The Cougars had a seven-run lead after five innings, but supporters of both teams knew better...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x552985381/Cougars-survive-Panthers-rally-after-costly-base-running-mistake

Pretz No. 1 doubles falls in comeback bid - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Freeport, Ill. — No team wants to be on the losing end of a comeback bid that falls just short.

But for Freeport's No. 1 doubles team of Aaron Cummins and David Bauer, it was much better than folding against Harlem...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x767224646/Pretz-No-1-doubles-falls-in-comeback-bid

Animal Kingdom wins the 137th Kentucky Derby - WREX.com

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) -- Animal Kingdom used a strong stretch run to win the 137th K...

READ THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14593398

Pretzels fifth at NIC-10 Meet - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard

Belvidere — The Freeport girls finished the NIC-10 in fifth, scoring 44 points.
Harlem won the meet with 186. Bryn Buckwalter led the Pretzels, finishing third in the shot and second in the disc. Buckwalter tossed 37 feet, nine and one-half inches in the shot. "It was OK," she said. "But I just couldn't get out of 37 (feet) today."

Buckwalter also had a throw of 115-1 in the disc...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x767224642/Pretzels-fifth-at-NIC-10-Meet

Speedway Flag Man Dies 5/6/11 - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-This is a sad weekend at the Rockford Speedway.  The track's flag man Tom Powell died Thursday of a heart attack.  He was 51 years old...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=250307

Standridge A RiverHawk - MyStateLine.com

Former Rockford College standout Kyle Standridge is trying to earn a job with the RiverHawks.  Standridge is an outfielder who can also play third base.

Last year at Rockford College he had a 42 game hitting streak.  That's the third longest hitting streak in NCAA Division III history.  He was named a second team All-American...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=250297

Whom Will Replace Goers? - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-Now that Steve Goes has announced his retirement whom will be the guy to take his place as Boylan's head basketball coach? Those are some big shoes to fill...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=250057

Original catcher for the Rockford RiverHawks is fans’ pick as the best in team history

LOVES PARK, Ill. – The original catcher for the Rockford RiverHawks is fans' pick as the best in team history.

The RiverHawks announced Thursday that Kevin Ciarrachi is the catcher on the All-Time RiverHawks Team, presented by The Hemmens Cultural Center, Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet and Johnny Pamcakes. More than 50,000 votes were cast at the team website, RockfordRiverHawks.com.

In celebration of its 10th season, the RiverHawks are offering fans the chance to decide who is the greatest player in team history at each position, from starting pitcher to shortstop to outfield.

In an extremely close race at catcher, Ciarrachi edged former teammates Bobby Matthews and Gooby Gerlits. Ciarrachi drew 21,123 (36 percent) of 59,046 total votes to Matthews' 20,443 (35 percent) and Gerlits' 17,362 (29 percent). Travis Scott received 106 votes and Dave Bernstine drew 12.

Ciarrachi spent 2002-05 with the RiverHawks. He returned from two shoulder surgeries – he spent his rehab time as a member of the team's radio play-by-play team – to backstop the pennant-winning 2004 team. Ciarrachi, a Frontier League All-Star, threw out 25 percent of attempted base stealers that year. In the deciding game of the RiverHawks' first-round series against the Grizzlies, Ciarrachi had a run-scoring, extra-base hit in each of Rockford's last two offensive innings. Ciarrachi hit .277 in his four seasons as a RiverHawk and was charged with just eight passed balls.

Voting will switch to a new position approximately every 7-10 days. Winners will be announced at the end of each voting period and all will be acknowledged at a game this summer with an all-time RiverHawks poster, co-sponsored by Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet, The Hemmens and Johnny Pamcakes, to be given out at the June 10 game.

The Hemmens Cultural Center is located in downtown Elgin. From contemporary music and theatre to shows for the whole family, The Hemmens features popular acts in an intimate setting.

Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet of Rockford is Winnebago's County's premier Chevy dealer. Lou Bachrodt is located near Cherryvale Mall, just minutes from the stadium.

Johnny Pamcakes, located on E. State St. near Fairview, offers made-from-scratch breakfast, lunch and dinner.

More than a quarter of a million votes have already been cast in the promotion. Other players already voted onto the all-time team include first baseman Patrick O'Sullivan, second baseman Joe Anthonsen, shortstop Jono Brooks, third baseman Ben Fjelland and outfielders Richard Austin, Jason James and Tony Pigott.

Opening Night for the RiverHawks' 10th season is 7:05 p.m. Friday, May 20, when they host Traverse City. Advertising and ticket information is available by calling (815) 885-2255. Fans can also visitwww.rockfordriverhawks.com.

READ THE STORY: http://ism.infinityprosports.com/Components/Emailer2/MailSendViewer.php?OnlineEmailID=7699&ID2=350

Vote for top RiverHawks starting pitcher

LOVES PARK, Ill. – Picking the top starting pitcher in Rockford RiverHawks history is likely to elicit the greatest debate on the Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet/Hemmens/Johnny Pamcakes All-Time RiverHawks team. There are three pitchers who have won 20 games in a Rockford uniform. Another pitched a no-hitter. Several have been all-stars.

In celebration of their 10th season, the RiverHawks are offering fans the chance to decide who is the greatest player in team history at each position, from starting pitcher to shortstop to outfield. Votes can be cast at the team website, www.rockfordriverhawks.com.

Voting will switch to a new position approximately every 7-10 days. Winners will be announced at the end of each voting period and all will be acknowledged at a game this summer with an all-time RiverHawks poster, co-sponsored by Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet, The Hemmens and Johnny Pamcakes, to be given out at the June 10 game.

The newest position is starting pitcher. The finalists, determined by a panel of longtime members of the organization, are...

READ THE STORY: http://ism.infinityprosports.com/Components/Emailer2/MailSendViewer.php?OnlineEmailID=7700&ID2=350

Athlete of the Week: Winnebago's Marcus Posley - WREX.com

WINNEBAGO (WREX) – The Winnebago dominated the prestigious Art Carlson Classic last week behind a standout performance from junior Marcus Posley...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14574901

Youth Golfer Playing With A Purpose

Brad Benjamin was the first golfer from Rockford to make it big on the national stage. Will young Grant Germano be the next...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Young_121361289.html

Local Prepares For Bodybuilding Grand Prix

This upcoming Saturday Jefferson high school will host the Natural Bodybuilding Grand Prix for the second straight year...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Local_Prepares_For_Bodybuilding_Grand_Prix_121361044.html

Interview With Bruce Weber - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-The Fighting Illini lost a talented senior class, and it's top underclassman, but head coach Bruce Weber is still upbeat about next season...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=249987

RiverHawks Open Camp - MyStateLine.com

Loves Park, Illinois-A new season of RiverHawks baseball got underway Thursday morning with the start of training camp at Road Ranger Stadium. The new season brings a lot of new faces since the team has switched back to the Frontier League.  There's also a new coaching staff led by new manager Rich Austin, the former RiverHawks' slugger...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=249997

Turner boys favored to repeat as champs - Beloit Daily News

John Turner has so many available sprinters of comparable ability, it's a real chore determining where to place them for maximum impact in a meet like Friday's Beloit Daily News Invitational. Just about every track and field coach in America would love to have the Beloit Turner head coach's dilemma...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/05/05/sports/local_sports/sports502.txt

Cougars will host 33rd BDN - Beloit Daily News

CLINTON — Laura Popanz had her younger sister pushing her earlier in the season. Now, she figures it's up to her to push herself.

"Early in the season, (younger sister) Katie was on her heels," Clinton head coach Ray Vance said. "Laura figured she better get out of the blocks and since then she's been a half-second faster than her...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/05/05/sports/local_sports/sports501.txt

Boylan Basketball Coach Steve Goers retires - WREX.com

ROCKFORD (WREX) - Boylan boy's basketball coach Steve Goers stepped down Thursday, retiring as the winningest coach in IHSA history. Goers walks away with 881 career wins, 17 more than longtime Westchester St. Joseph coach Gene Pingatore...

SEE THE STORY: http://www.wrex.com/Global/story.asp?S=14580668

Rockford Christian Signings

Drew Anderson will be attedning the University of Illinois as a preferred walk on and will play tight end for the Illini...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Rockford_Christian_Signings_121291919.html

Athletes Choose Colleges - MyStateLine.com

Rockford, Illinois-Several Stateline athletes announced their college choices Wednesday. Rockford Christian's 6'7" tightend Drew Anderson has decided to walk-on at the University of Illinois...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=249597

H.S. Baseball - MyStateLine.com

Machesney Park, Illinois-The Boylan Titans ran their NIC-10 record to 9-0 Wednesday by defeating Harlem 8-3..

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=249627

Stampfli keeps Cards perfect in RVC - Beloit Daily News

Beloit Turner chipped away at Erika Stampfli all day long. But the Trojans could never deliver the big knockout punch as Brodhead used a big fifth inning to pull away for a 4-0 Rock Valley Conference South victory on Tuesday...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/05/04/sports/local_sports/sports401.txt

Thunder softball crushes Auburn in 23-0 win

BELVIDERE – Belvidere North met Auburn in a varsity softball matchup, which turned out to be a very one-sided game for the Blue Thunder. Despite near freezing temperatures, North had full control of the game from the get-go and came away with a lopsided 23-0 victory over the Knights...

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6491:thunder-softball-crushes-auburn-in-23-0-win&catid=100:belvidere-north&Itemid=502

Beloit’s Darnell tough on hill - Beloit Daily News

CLINTON, Iowa — After two straight poor pitching performances, the Beloit Snappers returned to form in Tuesday's three-game series finale against the Clinton LumberKings. Logan Darnell (2-1) was stellar over six innings, leading the Snappers (14-9) to a 6-3 win over the LumberKings, giving Beloit its third straight series triumph and sixth win in nine tries...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/05/04/sports/local_sports/sports402.txt

School Sports Plan Heads to Board for Vote

ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- After months of debate, the Rockford school board will now vote on a sports plan to save the district money on next year's budget. Under the proposal, sports could operate under a tier system. The first tier includes sports like football, volleyball, and basketball with JV and varsity levels. Those will stay the same...

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/news/headlines/School_Sports_Plan_Heads_to_Board_for_Vote_121224389.html

Ultimate Frisbee Comes To Rockford

The Great Lakes Division Open makes its way to Sportscore I....

SEE THE VIDEO AND STORY: http://www.wifr.com/sports/headlines/Ultimate_Frisbee_Comes_To_Rockford__121063179.html

RiverHawks Sign 10 Players - MyStateLine.com

LOVES PARK, Ill. – With just two days to go before spring training begins, the Rockford RiverHawks have added a slew of players to their roster. Rockford's only professional baseball team announced Tuesday it has signed 10 more players, including pitchers Alex Szymanski...

READ THE STORY: http://mystateline.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=249237

Q&A: Hononegah’s Jake Lanning - Beloit Daily News

ROCKTON — Every time Jake Lanning steps on a baseball diamond, he's a force. Even if he doesn't look the part. Ask any of the opposing coaches and they'll be quick to tell you that the 6-foot, 175-pound Hononegah senior has turned into the best player in the NIC-10. Whether it's on the mound or at the plate, Lanning continues to gives opposing coaches sleepless nights...

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/05/03/sports/local_sports/sports303.txt

Snappers flattened by Kings - Beloit Daily News

CLINTON, Iowa — The Beloit Snappers rallied from a seven-run deficit in Sunday's come-from-behind 10-8 win. But the Snappers didn't have much left in the tank, dropping a 13-6 decision on Monday night to the Clinton LumberKings. For the second time in as many days, the Snappers (13-9) faced another early deficit, falling behind 7-0 after five innings. It was a rough start for B.J. Hermsen (2-3), who surrendered six earned runs on eight hits with three strikeouts and two walks in 4 2/3 innings....

READ THE STORY: http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2011/05/03/sports/local_sports/sports302.txt

Thunder softball falls short in 11-1 loss to Hononegah

BELVIDERE - It was a rough night for the Lady Thunder softball team, as they were defeated by the Hononegah Indians by a score of 11-1. Hononegah looked well in control of this game from the get-go. The Thunder had several chances to put runs on the board, but they were unable to make the most of their opportunities and fell in a one-sided loss....

READ THE STORY: http://www.belvideredailyrepublican.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6471:thunder-softball-falls-short-in-11-1-loss-to-hononegah&catid=100:belvidere-north&Itemid=502

Cougs lose in playoff, season ends - The Journal-Standard

Freeport, Ill. — Tuesday's Region IV playoff opponent was a familiar one in Sauk Valley. Unfortunately for Highland (8-30), the Cougars had similar results against this year's Arrowhead Conference champions. Highland was swept in a best-of-three format, 8-1, 7-1...

READ THE STORY: http://www.journalstandard.com/sports/x449047479/Cougs-lose-in-playoff-season-ends