Top 50 NFL players 2008

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

1. Ladainian Tomlinson, Chargers RB (1,474 yards rushing, 475 yards receiving, 18 total TDs)

2. Adrian Peterson, Vikings RB (1,321 yards rushing, 268 yards receiving, 13 total TDs)

3. Tom Brady, Patriots QB (4,806 yards passing, 52 total TDs, 8 INT)

4. Steven Jackson, Rams RB (1,273 total yards, 6 TDs in 12 games; watch his holdout status, though)

5. Randy Moss, Patriots WR (1,493 yards receiving, 23 TDs)

6. Marion Barber, III, Cowboys RB (1,257 total yards, 12 total TDs, but will get more touches in 2008)

7. Brian Westbrook, Eagles RB (2,104 total yards, 12 total TDs)

8. Joseph Addai, Colts RB (1,436 total yards, 15 total TDs)

9. Peyton Manning, Colts QB (4,401 passing yards, 34 total TDs, 14 INT)

10. Clinton Portis, Redskins RB (1,651 total yards, 11 TDs)

11. Frank Gore, Niners RB (1,538 total yards, 6 TDs)

12. Tony Romo, Cowboys QB (4,211 passing yards, 38 total TDs, 19 INT)

13. Braylon Edwards, Browns WR (1,289 yards receiving, 16 TDs)

14. Reggie Wayne, Colts WR (1,510 yards receiving, 10 TDs)

15. Terrell Owens, Cowboys WR (1,355 yards, 15 TDs)

16. Drew Brees, Saints QB (4,423 passing yards, 29 total TDs, 18 INT)

17. Larry Johnson, Chiefs RB (8 games, 559 yards rushing, 4 total TDs)

18. Marshawn Lynch, Bills RB (1,115 rushing yards, 7 TDs, offseason character problems)

19. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals WR (1,409 receiving yards, 10 TD, happy with new contract)

20. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars RB (768 yards rushing, 4 TDs, 407 yards receiving. Needs Fred Taylor to retire, now!)

21. Laurence Maroney, Patriots RB (835 yards, 6 TDs, but very promising in 2nd half)

22. Earnest Graham, Bucs RB (898 rushing yards, 324 receiving yards, 10 TD)

23. Willis McGahee, Ravens RB (1,207 rushing yards, 7 TD)

24. Ryan Grant, Packers RB (956 rushing yards, 8 TD on just 188 carries)

24a. Brett Favre, Packers QB. He's back, and he will produce, as he always does.

25. Derek Andersen, Browns QB (3,787 passing yards, 32 total TDs, 19 INT)

26. Carson Palmer, Bengals QB (4,130 yards passing, 26 TDs, 20 INT)

27. Michael Turner, Falcons RB (4.5 yards per carry in 2007 as LT's backup)

28. Andre Johnson, Texans WR (851 Receiving Yards, 8 TDs in 9 games)

29. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers QB (3,154 yards, 32 TDs, 11 INT)

30. Steve Smith, Panthers WR (1,002 receiving yards, 7 TDs; deserves to be in a better passing game)

31. Jamal Lewis, Browns RB (1,304 rushing yards, 11 total TDs; still just 28 years old)

32. Brandon Jacobs, Giants RB (1,183 total yards, 9 TDs in 11 games)

33. T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Bengals WR (1,143 receiving yards, 12 TDs)

34. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins RB (991 total yards, 5 TDs in 7 games. Monitor his progress through training camp.)

35. Matt Hasselbeck, Seattle QB (3,996 passing yards, 28 TDs, 12 INT)

36. Donovan McNabb, Eagles QB (3,324 passing yards, 19 TDs in 14 games)

37. Anquan Boldin, Cardinals WR (853 receiving yards, 9 TD in 12 games)

38. Plaxico Burress, Giants WR (1,025 receiving yards, 12 TDs)

39. Jason Witten, Cowboys TE (1,145 receiving yards, 7 TDs)

40. Edgerrin James, Cardinals RB (1,428 total yards, 7 TDs)

41. Darren McFadden, Raiders RB (Rookie)

42. Eli Manning, Giants QB (3,336 passing yards, 23 TDs, 20 INT)

43. Vincent Jackson, Chargers WR (623 yards, 3 TDs)

44. Brandon Marshall, Broncos WR (1,325 receiving yards, 7 TDs)

45. Jay Cutler, Broncos QB (3,497 passing yards, 20 TDs, 14 INT)

46. Antonio Gates, Chargers TE (984 receiving yards, 9 TDs)

47. Chad Johnson, Bengals WR (1,440 yards receiving yards, 8 TDs)

48. Wes Welker, Patriots WR (1,175 receiving yards, 8 TDs)

49. Kellen Winslow, Browns TE (1,106 receiving yards, 5 TDs)

50. Chris Cooley, Redskins TE (786 receiving yards, 8 TDs)

Top 50 Baseball players 2008

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

1. Alex Rodriguez, 3B, Yankees. He's the best player in real life and in fantasy.

2. Matt Holliday, OF, Rockies. Great park, great hitter, very good lineup.

3. Jake Peavy, SP, Padres. Jake's got a shot to repeat pitching triple crown.

4. Albert Pujols, 1B, Cardinals. The elbow is a concern. Keep an eye on his game during spring training.

5. Hanley Ramirez, SS, Marlins. Take him over Reyes and Rollins.

6. David Wright, 3B, Mets. Average +Power + Speed = Fantasy Stallion.

7. Miguel Cabrera, 3B, Tigers. Allegedly on a diet.

8. Jose Reyes, SS, Mets. Don't let late season slide scare you off this speedster.

9. Chase Utley, 2B, Phillies. A complete player at the thinnest position in fantasy baseball.

10. Ryan Howard, 1B, Phillies. A healthy Big Man could hit 55 and drive in 150.

11. Vladimir Guerrero, OF, Angels. Go look up his career stats if you disagree.

12. Johan Santana, SP, Mets. He and Peavey will both be great; take your pick.

13. Prince Fielder, 1B, Brewers. Big slugger won't be quite as good as Howard in '08.

14. Alfonso Soriano, OF, Cubs. Expect close to 40 HR, 120 runs, and 35 steals.

15. David Ortiz, 1B, Red Sox. Only the slow-witted bet against Big Papi.

16. Jimmy Rollins, SS, Phillies. This little guy does it all, but a repeat of 2007 is a tall order.

17. Ryan Braun, 3B, Brewers. Potential sophomore slump is the only reason he's not top in 10.

18. Magglio Ordonez, OF, Tigers. He was a monster last year. His stats are due to decline, but he will still be very good.

19. Ichiro, OF Mariners. He's always a threat to hit .350, steal 50 and score 125. That's a fantasy asset.

20. Carlos Beltran, OF, Mets. If all five tools work this year, he's a steal at this level.

21. Grady Sizemore, OF, Indians. He's a unique power/speed combination.

22. Carl Crawford, OF, Devil Rays. If he can nudge the homers up to 20-25, he'll be deadly, both on the field and in the fantasy world.

23. Travis Hafner, 1B, Indians. Will bounce back from sub-par 2007.

24. Robinson Cano, 2B, Yankees. This is his breakout year. Deadly in second half.

25. Mark Teixiera, 1B, Braves. Looked really good in second half of 2007 season.

26. C.C. Sabathia, SP, Indians. Needs to hit the salad bar.

27. Josh Beckett, SP, Red Sox. Good in every pitching category. Won't slump after great '07.

28. Carlos Lee, OF, Astros. He should hit .300 with at least 30 HR, 100 RBI, 10 SB.

29. Justin Morneau, 1B, Twins. Don't forget about this 2006 MVP.

30. J.J. Putz, RP, Mariners. Who can argue with 6-1, 40 saves, and a 1.38 ERA?

31. Alex Rios, OF, Blue Jays. Nice producer in every offensise

32. Torii Hunter, OF, Angels.

34. Troy Tulowitzki, SS, Rockies. Coming off a great rookie year in hitter's park.

35. Brandon Phillips, 2B, Reds. A great fantasy player for a second baseman.

36. B.J. Upton, OF, Tampa Bay Rays. .300/30/30 are not out of the question.

37. Victor Martinez, C, Indians. Best hitting catcher in the game.

38. Aramis Ramirez, 3B, Cubs. He might fly under the radar on draft day. Don't let him.

39. Brandon Webb, SP, Diamondbacks. Solid and steady. Not quite a top four pitcher, though.

40. Jonathan Papelbon, RP, Red Sox. Great in every category, but Putz wil get more saves.

41. Derek Jeter, SS, Yankees. Will hit .325, score 115 runs and steal 25. Might pop 20 HR.

42. Nick Markakis, OF, Orioles. Ranked in Top 30 among fantasy players in '07.

43. Adam Dunn, OF, Reds. He always hits at least 40 HR; his low batting average hurts, though.

44. Erik Bedard, SP, Mariners. Would be higher except he's coming off an injury.

45. Manny Ramirez, OF, Red Sox. Can Manny still be Manny this year, or has the decline begun?

46. Derrek Lee, 1B, Cubs. Average is a given. 16 HR after All-Star break raises power hopes.

47. Russell Martin, C, Dodgers. Hitting in a better lineup this year.

48. Carlos Pena, 1B, Devil Rays. He hit 46 homers last year. That can't be ignored.

49. Brian Roberts, 2B, Baltimore Orioles. Take him higher if he's traded to Cubs by Opening Day.

50. Garrett Atkins, 3B, Rockies. Top notch hitter in last 4 months of '07 season.

Pete Sampras and Todd Martin in Austin 8th Nov.

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

I received the following press release from the USTA Texas section:

One of the greatest tennis players of all time, “Pistol Pete” Sampras and American legend Todd Martin will headline the ABC Services Tennis Classic on Sunday, November 8th at 2:00PM at Lakeway World of Tennis located at One World of Tennis, Austin, TX.

The always entertaining Murphy Jensen will host the event. In addition to the Sampras and Martin men’s singles match, the Tennis Classic will also features local players in an innovative tiebreak shootout format. A portion of the proceeds from the exhibition will benefit The Children of Fallen Soldiers, a non-profit and non-partisan organization that finances the college education for children of soldiers from Ft. Hood killed in the line of duty. You can learn more about the Children of Fallen Soldiers at:

www.childrenoffallensoldiers.com

"I’m excited to return to Texas to participate in the Austin Tennis Classic benefiting the Children of Fallen Soldiers Organization.” said Pete Sampras. “ It’s an honor to support an event that in turn helps support such an important cause. I know Todd and I look forward to having a great match at Lakeway World of Tennis."

Pete Sampras captured his final grand slam title with his dramatic US Open victory over longtime rival Andre Agassi in 2002. His resume boasts 14 grand slam titles, including seven Wimbledon titles. He was ranked World No. 1 for six consecutive years from 1993-1998. In July of 2007, he was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, R.I.

Todd Martin was a finalist at the 1999 U.S. Open and the 1994 Australian Open. In 1994, he reached the semifinals at Wimbledon, the US Open and the Grand Slam Cup. Every year from 1994 to 2002 Martin played Davis Cup for the United States. He was inducted into the ITA Men’s Collegiate Tennis Hall of Fame in May of 2007.

The Classic is proudly supported by the United States Tennis Association, Wilson Sporting Goods, KTBC Fox 7, Mix 94.7, Majic 95.5, and the Austin Sport Commission.

Tickets are available to the public beginning Saturday, August 29th on-line through www.etix.com or by calling 800-514-etix(3849). Ticket prices are $28.50, $48.50 and $68.50.

USTA League Updates

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

Balls of Fury, captained by Sharon McKinney, won the 9.0 Mixed league with a 7-1 record. BOF will advance to sectionals in Corpus Christi in October.

The 8.0 Mixed championship is coming down to the wire, as 15 Sticks, captained by Anne Blackwood, and Worst Tennis in Texas, captained by Michelle Gilbert, are both 9-1 heading into the final week of play.

In Men's Senior 4.0 play, Gary Ellison's Westover team has clinched the league title as they are 7-0 with one week left to play.

Not Dead Yet, captained by Hollis Chacona, won the Senior Women's 4.0 league with a 6-0 record.

In the Women's Senior 4.5 league, Austin Aces, captained by Carol Welder, claimed the title.

Fall Kids Programs at Westover Hills Club...Ultimate Tennis Fall Season

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

The Fall Programs at the Westover Hills Club are starting up soon. Check out the website for more information. There are classes for kids between the ages of 5-18 every afternoon and Saturday mornings.

Registraton for the Fall Season of the Ultimate Tennis League has started. Early registration deadline is September 2nd. The Season will start on September 19 and run through November 12.Click here to register to play.

Sharapova's new BFF?

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

Rumours of Maria Sharapova being a lesbian just don't stop coming. Last night, she was spotted having a great time with none other than Blake Lively from Gossip Girl. Blake took part in a lesbian-esque photoshoot back in March 2009 for Rolling stone.

Maria Sharapova may be a lesbian: photo posing with gossip girl Blake Lively
The snaps were taken from Tiffany & Co's party in honor of Sharapova and Frank Gehry.

Perhaps this is the start of a new BFF relationship for Maria :P More photos below!

Picture of BFF Maria Sharapova and Blake Lively

Photo of BFF Maria Sharapova and Blake Lively

Image of BFF Maria Sharapova and Blake Lively

Can Maria be snapped having a good time with another hot chick without having lesbian rumours popping up every time? Simple answer is no.

WORLD CUP 2010: SPAIN CALLS SENNA FOR UPCOMING GROUP CLASHES

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

SPAIN has two important upcoming WORLD CUP 2010 Group matches;
BELGIUM on the 5th of September at home (A Coruña) & ESTONIA on
the 9th of September also at home (Merida). With this task at hand
Spanish National Team Coach & Selector Vicente del Bosque has
handed in his list of Spanish players to make up the Team, with the
novelty being the return of Villareal midfielder MARCOS SENNA. Also
called up is Arsenal Captain Cesc Fabregas who is suffering injury,
but talks with his Club doctors open a slim chance that he may
recover in time.

Here is the full list:

Goalkeepers: Casillas, Reina, Diego López

Defenders: Arbeloa, Puyol, Piqué, Marchena, Albiol,
Monreal, Capdevila

Midfielders: Cesc, Xavi, Xabi Alonso, Busquets, Mata,
Riera, Senna, SilvaFowards: Villa, Torres, Güiza.

NFL lockout in 2011

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

Officials of the NFL want a new labor deal. They are convinced owners of the League want something else, a lockout in 2011. Monday morning, DeMaurice Smith the NFLPA executive director while on the Colts’ training camp told reporters that a lockout is expected to be imposed by the owners in two years. They are already beginning to advise players on how to cope with it. the players are staring to listen.

Jeff Saturday the Three-time Pro Bowl center and the Colts’ player representative, admit he already talked with his teammates about increasing their savings now. Charlie Batch, the Pittsburgh quarterback said earlier this month that he also spoke with teammates about benefit loss possibilities such as retirement plans in case of work stop and health insurance. And Kevin Mawae, Tennessee center and NFLPA president, said the same thing. If ever a lockout is made, we want our players to be prepared. But league spokesman Greg Aiello tamped down the prediction and said they are negotiating a new agreement and they still have two seasons before the expiration of contracts.

Favre now a part of Vikings

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

A standing ovation was given to Brett Favre Friday night over the big top of the Metrodome. He was considered as the villain in Mennesota sports. His signing up with the Vikings instantly turned him into a white knight as a quarterback and the key figure in the teams run for the Super Bowl.

After signing on Tuesday he started a preseason game three days later against the Kansas City Chiefs. He was still a little rusty and in 4 yards went 1 of 4 in passing in two series and won with a 17-13 against the Chiefs. But fans of the Vikings welcomed him with open arms they are the ones who despise him in 16 seasons while he was with the Green Bay Packers. Farve said he felt a little odd after years of playing with the other side. But camera flashes popped all over non stop, the moment he started jogging into the huddle for the first time and stopped only after he was relieved late in the first quarter.

Alvaro Negredo has finally chosen Sevilla

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

REAL MADRID forward ALVARO NEGREDO has finally chosen SEVILLA
FC over Real Zaragoza, Hull City & Zenit of St.Petersburg to play in
the next years. Sevilla FC entered into the signing race when it all
looked as if Negredo would go to Real Zaragoza, but a 15M€ transfer
price & a 5 year deal ( with Real Madrid having an option of a buy
back in the first two years) has convinced the forward.

Negredo was officially presented this afternoon in Sevilla Fc in front

of media & fans where he declared that he wished to stay in Spain
& if possibly play in Champions. Alvaro Negredo becomes Seville’s
highest paid transfer/signing.

Coach Guardiola has let known

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

FC BARCELONA Coach Guardiola has let known to his superiors that
although he has the “Best Team in the World” he desires a couple
of new signings to guarantee two positions: the central defence & a
left midfielder/winger. According to “Sport” the chosen names are
DMYTRO CHYGRYNSKIY of SHAKHTAR DONETSK as defender &
JUAN MATA of VALENCIA CF as the midfielder/winger.

FC Barcelona has made a 25M€ offer for Chygrynskiy, & the player
himself is putting pressure on his Club. It is expected that Barça &
Shakhtar retake conversations & may settle things at Monaco as
they are to play the European Supercup next Friday. In reference
to Juan Mata, Barça will retake the operation & go back to Valencia
CF with an offer after the latter refused to sell their player earlier
in the month. However, the economic “crisis” at Valencia CF hasn’t
been totally solved & they may now see the Barça offer as a
economic “lifeline".

Nationals Buoyed

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

Finally, the Washington Nationals have signed their new big player, Stephen Strasburg.The number one overall pick in this year’s draft signed a contract with the team last night for 4 years and more than $15 million over that time. This puts a lot of stock and a big investment into this young player and hopefully wont give him too high expectations! But at the same time, the Nationals needed some kind of boost and Strasburg might well give them some real hope as the season moves forward. Maybe he wont get the team out of the basement this year, since we’re a little too far along at this point. But next year might be a great help for him to be on this team. A star pitcher might be just the spark that this team needs to start winning games!

Pando and Pontiac Lake

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

Another stellar weekend of racing for Dark Horse! Melissa and Gabby teamed up as a 6hour endurance team at Pando on 8/15 and raced to an impressive 2nd place in the 2-person open class!

On Sunday 8/16, Jen and Alicia (in her debut XC race) both had podium finishes at the Pontiac Lake XC, with Alicia winning the 24 and under Sport Women class and Jen finishing 3rd in Sport Women 25-39.

Alicia crossing the finish line:

Alicia for the win!

Jen's takes 3rd!

Congrats to all Dark Horse Racers!!!

Moreno with $23 M deal with Denver

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

Moreno with $23 M deal with Denver

August 10, 2009 by Sherry Ingram

Knowshon Moreno is now the Denver Broncos‘ top draft pick after signing an agreement for a $23 million contract for five-year. NFL Network’s Jason La Canfora was told by a league source. Moreno got guarantee money of $13 million in the deal. Moreno has 2,734 yards and 30 touchdowns while playing in the University of Georgia. He was the 12th pick overall and the first running back to be selected in the April draft of the NFL. He will start to practice on Sunday with the Broncos.

He has do a lot of catching up due to his delayed debut. He has already missed 12 training-camp sessions and a scrimmage at Invesco Field. Josh McDaniels, the First-year Broncos coach said he has no grudges and his teammates were excited for his arrival and would add some offense that they lost when Pro Bowl quarterback Jay Cutler left for the Chicago Bears.

Jaguars Signs up Monroe for Five Years eugene-monroe1

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

Eugene Monroe the first round draft signed up a five year contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars worth $35.4 million and a guarantee of $19.2 million. This was disclosed to La Canfora of the NFL Network. This was the biggest guarantee made by Jaguar in its history. An hour after the signing, he was already out in the field in the huddle and up with Jacksonville’s top defenders.

He is 6’5” and 320 pounds left tackle that came from Virginia. He lived up to expectation against fellow rookie Williams by winning two of three on a one on one battle. Later he went up against veteran defensive end Wyche in the Oklahoma drill. Then he tried it against Harvey last year’s no. 8 pick. The newcomer conquered both battles. He says he’s looking forward to this kind of training like what they did in college in camp and practice. He recalls its exciting to do that again. The Jaguars want Monroe on the field and expect him to start this season.

Colts not sure of Brock’s Injury

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

raheem-snapshot1 Raheem Brock the Colt defensive tackle had a left hand injury during Friday night’s first round game with a 13-3 loss to Minessota Vikings. He has been checked but results are still unknown. Its not certain yet of the extent of his hand problem. This is what Jim Caldwell the Colts coach said after a workout at the headquarters. No one is sure yet of how long he will be out of commission. The doctors are still not finished with his examination. Some other Indianapolis players like Mathis didn’t play in last Saturdays practice.

Their coach still didn’t have updates on when any of the other injured players will be returning for workouts. Rogert got a bruise in the Minnesota game but hopefully it is not serious. So he was not fielded in last Saturday. Other players are suited up to ready to take over. Some of the players got some sprain with an ankle or something like that. The Colt will continue training Monday.

Byrd Starts for Training Camp

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

jairus-byrd At last, Jairus Byrd the rookie safety of Buffalo Bill made is presence felt in training camp Monday. But the team had two defensive veterans out of commission due to knee injuries. Byrd is a second round draft pick. He was activated from the active non injury list of football players. He also missed two pre-season games and 18 days of training camp due to his surgery because of sports hernia repair. He is very enthusiastic to return to the field and he’s going to hit the ground running, this is what he said.

Another one in the injury list is Drayton Florence, a cornerback who will miss a week due to sprain in his kneed which he got in a pre-season game against Chicago, they won with as score of 27-20. It was due to a collision with Ko Simpson his team mate. Bryan Scott, a safety is also considered a day to day player after a hurting knee. McCall, a reserve tightened, a rookie is indefinitely out after a left knee injury against the Bears.

Brewers end their five game win drought

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

The Milwaukee Brewers, who had been having a bad time of it with the Cubs recently, came up with a superlative performance against the Atlanta Braves to win the first of the six game road trip by 9-0 last Friday night. This win is the eighth consecutive road trip win for the Milwaukee Brewers this season. Jeff Suppan was superb with his pitching during the game as he pitched for seven scoreless innings with three walks, one strike out and gave only five hits. It seems that the brewers have gathered themselves after their consecutive loss to Cubs and their fans will be hoping that their form continues. This win will definitely help in boosting the ticket sales for the Brewers forthcoming games.

Tough Day, Tough Tiger

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

Tiger is the 36-hole leader at the PGA. (Keith Allison/Flickr)

“With a four-shot cushion over his closest pursuers, these players would have a better chance rescuing a steak from a junk-yard dog.”
−Phil Capelle, Capelle On Golf

IT WAS A WINDY DAY at Hazeltine in the PGA Championship, blowing red numbers off the leaderboard and whisking players out of town as the cut line fell at 4-over par. Tiger Woods found the conditions difficult, but by the end of the day it had worked in his favor.

“It was a tough day all around,” Tiger told TNT’s Jim Huber after the completion of his round. Tiger carded a 70 to finish 36 holes at 7-under par and open up a four-shot lead on Vijay Singh, Padraig Harrington, Ross Fisher, Lucas Glover and Brendan Jones.

“It was tough out there; the wind was blustery, the greens were a little bit bumpy and it was just a tough day all around.”

Yeah, it was tough alright, especially on players who have designs on catching Tiger. Three consecutive birdies in the middle of the second nine separated Tiger from the field, and we know how unlikely it is that he’ll relinquish the lead in a major.

Still, there are 36 holes to go and Tiger isn’t taking anything for granted.

“You just plod along and see what happens,” Tiger said. “That’s what I did today. I got off to a poor start but hung in there.”

I have to agree with Phil Capelle. I like Tiger’s chances.

Fitness Ball 4 Tennis With Scott McTeer

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

(Top: Scott demonstrates the Russian Twist, Bottom: Fitness Ball pushup)

I first met Scott McTeer about ten years ago. Scott played college tennis for Duke and later played and coached on the ATP tour. He has worked with Pat Etcheberry and Jim Loeher among others, and has trained with many ATP players, including Andre Agassi and Jim Courier. He is now a certified personal trainer and the author of two books about fitness and training (Your Body, Your Life and Our Body, Our Life). His current clients include former WTA player and coach Beverly Bowes.

Previously when I trained with Scott (before my kids were born and I had time to train) we did a lot of work with weights, particularly dumbbells. When I ran into Scott recently, he told me he is really sold on the benefits of tennis players training with the fitness ball, also known as a swiss ball or stability ball. He told me “In my opinion the fitness ball is the best piece of exercise equipment ever invented. The ball is three dimensional and is functional training in its purest form. It will improve you game, shape your body, and dramatically improve your functional strength, endurance and stablitiy.”

I’m always looking for new ideas to get fitter, so after I checked out his website, I decided to meet Scott at a local gym for a fitness ball workout. I’ll admit I was a little skeptical, even though I have read about the benefits of fitness ball training from several different sources, including Mark Verstegan’s book “Core Performance.”

After a short warmup, Scott put me through a number of exercises focusing on different parts of the body using the fitness ball: Russian twists, knee lifts, one legged lunges and squats, good mornings, wood chops, push ups, planks, double leg raises, back extensions, bridges, leg curls with bridges (that one killed me) and pikes. Those are the ones I remember, I’m sure I left a few out. Suffice it to say that by the end of the hour, I was feeling pretty spent and it was definitely a full body workout.

After the workout Scott explained that he wanted to develop a workout that tennis players could do anywhere – on the road, at a gym, at home, or on the court. In addition, Scott has made videos that can be downloaded to a Blackberry, iphone or ipod touch. He explained “This way, you can take the workout with you, if you forget how to do something, you can just watch the video as a reminder.”

Eli Manning Back in NYC

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

Eli Manning has signed a contract extension with the New York Giants, worth over $95 million dollars over 6 seasons. This makes him one of the highest paid players in the NFL and also commits the Giants to keep a real quarterback on their team at least up until that time. The reports are only anonymous at this point in time because the contract hasn’t actually be signed, sealed, nor delivered. Or announced for that matter. Manning is clearly one of the best quarterbacks in the league, especially since his Super Bowl season. The only question is if the Giants can keep a good constellation of players around him up through that time. Only one team can win the championship each year, so we can hope that the Giants will be the one in the next few years again.

FC BARCELONA Offers 20M€ For Juan Mata Of VALENCIA CF

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

According to “Marca” FC BARCELONA has made a 20M€ offer for
VALENCIA CF midfielder & Spanish International JUAN MATA. It is
published that the player’s representative will communicate this
to Valencia CF this afternoon & see if they can come to an
agreement.Valencia CF is in serious economic difficulties & needs to pay its players part of their salaries, therefore they have a need to sell
players, especially after the Club refused to sell it’s big star David
Villa. With this in mind & the set of circumstances described there
exists a real possibility that Valencia may accept to transfer Mata
to FC Barcelona.

Debut of KAKÁ & XABI

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

Debut of KAKÁ & XABI ALONSO with REAL MADRID in their friendly
game against TORONTO, an omen it seems as the Spanish team won
1-5. Real Madrid continues to improve & there is no doubt that the
both mentioned players have lifted the level of the team. Benzema
looks good in his play & team connections, with Cristiano Ronaldo
feeling better as the games go on & then there is Raul who keeps
on keeping on with his fighting spirit.Others that debuted were Casillas, Arbeloa & Albiol. In summary a much better looking Real
Madrid as they build up for the start of the new season. Next match
is with Washington DC.

Pakistan aim to restore pride

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

The spark has rather disappeared from a tour that during the Test portion delivered a few non-fatal surprises for Sri Lanka, such as Fawad Alam's maiden century, Danish Kaneria's five, and Umar Gul's bursts of reverse. Sri Lanka were utterly dominant in the first three ODIs and their series win has been totally justified. There was no resistance from Pakistan until the fourth game, a dead rubber, in which Umar Akmal treated spectators to a most effortless maiden century and Iftikhar Anjum bounced back with five wickets in no time.

The wheels haven't quite come off for Pakistan, but the nuts have certainly been loosened and the main aim is to continue to regain some lost pride. Sunday's match represents another chance for Pakistan to turn around their short-term fortunes, yet the poor form of their senior players - Mohammad Yousuf and Misbah-ul-Haq in particular - may prompt the management to revert to youth. Intikhab Alam, Pakistan's coach, said the wonderful partnership between Umar and captain Younis Khan gave a lot of confidence to the team for the final ODI and the Twenty20.

It's a shame Sri Lanka and Pakistan don't go into the final ODI with the series level. A tight run-chase under lights at the Premadasa, with the series at stake, would have been a delightful prospect.see online score

Umar Akmal's maiden international hundred

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

Umar Akmal's maiden international hundred, a rousing unbeaten 102 from 72 balls, and Younis Khan's first half-century as captain took Pakistan to a large total and set up their first win on tour. Batting first has been distinctly advantageous at the Premadasa and so it proved as Pakistan put up a mammoth score and then pressured the Sri Lankan batsmen into self-destruction. Iftikhar Anjum played a major hand, claiming career-best figures as Sri Lanka were dismissed for 175, losing their last seven wickets for 45 runs in 12.3 overs.The pace was set early by Umar's elder brother Kamran, who ensured the tempo did not flag despite Imran Nazir's early dismissal, but Sri Lanka's spinners struck thrice in less than six overs. Young Umar walked to the crease when Pakistan were 130 for 4, with a struggling captain searching for a partner and only Shahid Afridi to follow. He took the opportunity to prove that not all is as made to believe about Pakistan's domestic set-up. His effervescence complimented Younis' solidity and their 176-run stand paved the way.

Where Nazir, Mohammad Yousuf and Misbah-ul-Haq struggled against a combination of tidy bowling and a slow track, Umar appeared comfortable from the get-go. He showed he wasn't going to get bogged down, swinging his seventh delivery - from Ajantha Mendis, no less - over long-on for a six and flicked almost effortlessly. His was a sensible approach, poaching the odd boundary and turning ones into twos while also dominating the perceived weaker bowlers. Finding the narrowest of gaps in the field and always sprinting hard between the wickets, he began rebuilding.

Credit is due to the man at the other end. Younis' innings contained crisp drives and wristy flicks and stolen runs but most importantly it was an effort that allowed Umar to flourish. Around his captain, Umar could play his own game and Pakistan didn't feel the pinch. Pakistan had been hurt in the series by Younis' indifferent form. Today they realised just what a difference runs from him can mean.

Importantly, he quickly assessed conditions and played with a welcome smoothness. Younis' innings was controlled, he ran hard between the wickets, and Pakistan's run-rate lifted to nearly five-and-a-half an over. With Umar rattling along Younis too changed his game. Soon defence turned to single hunting, gliding and efficiently flicking in the gaps.

Umar's half-century came up from 46 balls, after which he upped his strike-rate. Always keen to get back and across and then mow the ball over the on-side, he took consecutive fours off Mendis and then clubbed Lasith Malinga for 13 in the 46th over. Another effortless six off Malinga followed in the 48th over, the back leg lifted to gain power. Younis departed for 89 in the 49th over trying to get six but Umar reached three figures with two balls to spare. You can argue the pressure of winning the series wasn't there, but maiden ODI centuries don't come cleaner than this.

To chase 322 under lights in Sri Lanka a team needs something near a batting miracle. Upul Tharanga (80) played a cool hand to try and keep the required run-rate in check but there was little support. Pakistan's bowlers began by bowling too short - in particular Naved-ul-Hasan - and Tharanga and Sangakkara added 65 in good time. Sangakkara sped away to 39 from 33 balls before he was early into a drive against a slower ball from Anjum and scooped a catch to point.

From here the attack tidied up, Anjum sticking to a decent length and the spinners taking as much pace off the ball as possible. Thilina Kandamby went next, slashing Saeed Ajmal to slip, and a one-handed effort from Naved in the deep took out Chamara Kapugedera. Anjum bowled a lot of deliveries on an awkward length, too short to drive but too full to pull, and was rewarded with 5 for 30. Ajmal tossed the ball up into the rough with good control to take two wickets.

Tharanga played an extension of his half-century in the previous game, accumulating most of his runs by soft-handed steers through the arc between cover and gully. Third man proved a productive area for Tharanga, who didn't take the aerial route much. With his dismissal, feathering Anjum to Kamran, went Sri Lanka's chances. From here on it was a steady procession of wickets and Sri Lanka fell way short of the target. click here to see pics.

The most watched broadcast in US Television

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

The most watched broadcast in US Television, the Super Bowl, was first played on the 15th of January in 1967. Today, it has over 200 million viewers all over the world and continues to provide the thrills and excitements as only the National Football League can give. It is televised by one- and only one, major TV network and is known to have the most expensive airtime fees for advertising. It is also marked to be the day where the Americans have a high percentage of food consumption- second only to Thanksgiving. The Super Bowl’s most priced winner, the Pittsburgh Steelers, has won more games than any other team with 6 wins on the overall.
Now, with all this fuss about Super Bowl, it might interest you to know that there are talks of bringing the Super Bowl to London, as confirmed by a senior official of the NHL citing the Wembley Stadium to be the venue for this highly sought after event. Since the NFL has played several times in this part of the UK such as that of the game between the New York Giants and the Miami Dolphins which drew a record of 80,000 spectators, officials think it might be a good idea to host the Super Bowl there too.
NFL officials have always aimed at widening their presence to include cities outside the US. In fact, they have already played in several countries in Asia, Canada, Mexico and even Europe and the events have always been quite successful. In Mexico, an NFL game drew over 100,000 people.
Talks are still ongoing and hopefully a decision will be made real soon. Football is huge in the United States, and it just might be as successful in the UK too. And the only way to find out is to hold a British Super Bowl.

10 Most Expensive Sports Contracts Ever Signed

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

Johan Santana - New York Mets - Baseball - $137,500,000

Johan Santana had one of the biggest and most talked about trade potentials in baseball’s off season. The New York Mets signed him to a 6-year, $137 million dollar contract that would make him the highest paid pitcher in the Major Leagues. And well-deserved when you look at what he can do to an offense. Santana debuted with the Minnesota Twins on April 3, 2000 and came out of the bullpen against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, as they were known then. He got his first major league start against the Kansas City Royals on August 7, 2000.
Santana holds a 3.29 career ERA that teams lovem and opponents are batting just .219 lifetime against him. With masterful control, he might be one of the greatest left handed pitchers to grace the mound in some time.

Todd Helton - Colorado Rockies - Baseball - $151,500,000

Todd Helton, born in Knoxville, Tennessee, holds the second longest contract of this list at 11 years. He originally signed this long term deal in 2001, which was stated as a 9 year extension to his current contract. He also has an option for the 2012 season. Todd has accomplished a number of notable achievements over the years, including 5 time All-Star and a 3 time Gold Glove winner.
Todd was drafted in his junior year in the first round, eighth overall, in the 1995 Major League Baseball Draft by the Colorado Rockies. He was signed in July of the same year. Todd has spent his entire career with the Colorado Rockies and only recently have talks started about trading him away.

Miguel Cabrera - Detroit Tigers - Baseball - $152,300,000

Miguel Cabrera busted on the scene in 2003 in style with the Florida Marlins by hitting a walk off home run in his first major league game on June 20, 2003. He was just 20 years old. His bat was so good that he was very instrumental in the playoffs for the Florida Marlins and was a huge part of them beating the Yankees that year. Miguel would end up on the cover of the ESPN magazine during the off season due to his exceptional statistics which showed no signs of tapering off. In December of 2007, the Marlins agreed on a deal that would send Cabrera and team mate Dontrelle Willis to the Tigers for 6 players. In March of 2008, Miguel Cabrera and the Detroit Tigers came to an agreement on his most impressive contract of his still young career. It is an 8 year deal that will take him through the 2015 season.

Kimi Räikkönen - Ferrari - Auto Racing - $153,000,000

2007 saw Ferrari snap up one of the best drivers in Formula One Racing and giving him the second largest contract in racing history. Kimi Räikkönen busted on the scene in 2001 with the Sauber Formula One team and soon enough, he left them for McLaren where he would stay until 2006. During that span he was only able to muster a second place finish twice. The other 3 years saw a 6th place finish in 2002, a 7th place finish in 2004, and a 5th place finish in 2006. Kimi did not see success until 2007 when he moved to Ferrari. He was able to capture a 1st place finish in 2007 and currently is 2nd in 2008. His career was plagued with technical problems which caused 38% of his races to end in retirement.

Fernando Alonzo - McLaren - Auto Racing - $160,000,000

Even though McLaren™ decided to make Fernando the highest paid driver on the Formula One circuit in 2007, Alonzo didn’t stick around for the 4 years of the contract due to an “on again, off again” relationship over the next two years. Alonzo started his F1 career with Minardi in 2001, as the third youngest driver ever to start a Formula One race when he debuted at the 2001 Australian Grand Prix. On August 24, 2003, Alonzo would be the youngest driver ever to win a Formula One race when he took the checkered flag at the 2003 Hungarian Grand Prix. On December 19, 2005, Alonzo announced that he would be moving to McLaren in 2007 after his contract expired with Renault. In 2008, Alonzo would be back in a Renault owned car.

Manny Ramirez - Boston Redsox - Baseball - $160,000,000

When Manny Ramirez signed this contract, it made him the highest paid Red Sox player of all time.
His strong bat has led him to be one of the most feared power hitters and placing him in the group of 24 sluggers that have hit 500 or more home runs.

Michael Vick - Atlanta Falcons - Football - $167,000,000

Michael Vick had a celebrated career at Virginia Tech prior to be drafted by the Falcons in 2001. He joined Tommy Nobis, Steve Bartkowski, and Aundray Bruce as the Falcons only #1 overall picks in all of club history. Michael’s contract was short lived as he is currently serving a sentence for issues relating to his property in Virginia. His contract was signed in 2005 and extended to 2014. It remains to be seen if he can come back to the Falcons and even if he can, will he still have the effect that he once had.

Derek Jeter - New York Yankees - Baseball - $189,000,000

One of only 2 baseball players with a 10-year contract, Derek Jeter started his career as a Yankee in 1992 as he was drafted 6th overall and has always worn the pinstripes. He has earned himself the name of Mr. Yankee, and is currently listed as the Yankees’ captain. He has also played in 9 All-Star games representing the New York Yankees and ranks in the top ten in the production catergories of hits (second), runs (fourth), and batting average (seventh). Derek signed his new 10-year contract in 2001. It currently runs through 2011.

Alex Rodriguez - Texas Rangers - Baseball - $252,000,000

Alex received his first major contract in Texas when he became a free agent after the 2000 season was over. The Texas Rangers needed someone to build their team around after hitting rock bottom, and Alex seemed like the perfect player for the job. Unfortunately, however, A-Rod did not seem to be working for Texas as in 2001 and 2002 they still finished in the cellar of their division. It was time to let Alex go, and Texas did exactly that, right before the start of the 2004 season.

Alex Rodriguez - New York Yankees - Baseball - $275,000,000

One of only 2 baseball players with a 10 year contract, Alex was originally traded to the Yankees on February 15, 2004 to replace a void created when then third baseman Aaron Boone injured his knee in a pick-up game of basketball. This injury put him out for the entire year. Furthermore, Texas had already been looking for a place to dump Alex and his enormous salary and this was just the opening that they had wanted. The re-signing of Rodriquez was strange to say the least as he would be opting out of his $252 million dollar 10-year contract. Lucky for him, the New York Yankees picked him up soon after, and signed him to a new 10-year contract worth $275 million.

Most Expensive Sports

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

One of the great things about sports is that anyone with at least a modicum of talent and a heart full of desire can participate competently at something regardless of the size of their bank account.

That's right: Despite what the marketing wizzes at Nike (nyse: NKE - news - people ) might lead you to believe, it doesn't take a $200 pair of Air Jordans to play a decent game of pick-up basketball, any more than it requires a $2,000 driver to land a lucky hole-in-one on No. 7 at Pebble Beach, or nearly a $100,000 Holland & Holland side-by-side to plug a partridge in mid-flight.

And yet, as anyone who has ever dabbled seriously at such pursuits knows, throwing money around can have a positive effect on your game. From boosting your confidence, comfort and ability levels, to inspiring awe--or, even better, intimidation--in your opponents, highest-end training and equipment can be a worthy investment.

Nowhere does this hold truer than in sports that are expensive by their very nature. An auto racer behind the wheel of the finest sports car money can buy, a racing yacht crewed by high-salaried and seasoned sailors, or a mountaineer trained by experts and outfitted in premium gear are all forces to be reckoned with, regardless of their opponents'--or mountain's--will to stop them.

"The benefit of expensive sporting assets is almost incalculable on the field of play," notes Rege Ludwig, former coach of the U.S. Polo Team, who now runs first-rate polo clinics from his base in Palm Springs, Calif. Ludwig illustrates his point with the tale of a high-goal professional polo player with a stable full of horses, including a favorite named Chessy. "Every time he was on Chessy, he would score two goals, no matter what. His skills were basically the same, but the way he used them were different, and he would try stuff on Chessy he wouldn't try on other horses. Opponents got so nervous when they saw the two together, they'd start worrying and stop playing their game."

The result? The owner of an opposing team offered £225,000 (about $405,000) for Chessy--not to ride him, but to keep the two apart. In the end, the player realized Chessy's value went well beyond money and refused to sell.

Of course, as anyone who wants to sink his change into expensive sports will quickly learn, high-priced assets are only part of the price. There's also the cost of maintaining those assets, as well as of moving them around from one event to the next. A vintage Ferrari or Bentley not only has to get to the track and back each weekend, but must also be maintained before, during and after every race. A cycling team may ride like the wind, but only if it has transportation capable of hauling both bikes and riders to the starting line. And nobody can compete in anything without the necessary membership fees, licenses, and insurance to qualify them in the first place. How fast can such costs add up? You'd be amazed.

To give you a good idea of what you're getting yourself into as you pursue high-priced excellence on the field, we've compiled some of the world's most expensive sports and the anticipated costs should you bankroll them yourself. Presented on a "give-or-take" basis, they reflect actual prices and authoritative estimates. Just remember--no matter how much money you throw at a sport, it still takes heart to win.

Sprain sidelines Jackson

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

Tarvaris Jackson the quarterback of Minnesota Vikings will be sidelined due to a sprain on his left knee, the medial collateral ligament in particular. He was jammed by the defensive lineman during practice last Saturday. Jackson’s MRI showed a mild grade 1 sprain, a league source said. He is estimated to comeback to practice next week. This happened during practice drill, when LeTroy fell and rolled over Jacksons leg. Jackson was still in the field in pain when the trainers rushed to see him. In minutes he got up and was able to walk with out help.

It happened so fast, said LeTroy. Jackson and Sage are the starting quarterbacks after Brett did not return from retirement to join the Viking team. Who ever the player is, you don’t want to see any one of them fall, said Darell Bevell, the offensive coordinator said after the practice. You would not want to see anyone suffer from injury.

Steve Heiden

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

Steve Heiden the tight end player of Cleveland Browns after a severe injury in the knee three days after is on the operating table for reconstruction. Now, after eight months of surgery he is back on the playing field after he was cleared by his doctors. Heiden said, there is no success story yet since he has done nothing yet. He has attended only one practiced since his return. Heiden who last year caught 23 passes as a backup who is a blocker is a logical pick if he is physically fit.

The tackle of Bunkley was responsible of Heidens back leg injury during the game last Dec. 15 that teared the ACL and MCL in his knee. This was a devastating injury but he never felt that his career was finished. Good thing there was less swelling so he quickly had an operation. He wanted to return to the field ASAP. An ankle injury also forced him to miss seven games during the 2003 season.

Malcolm Jenkins makes it four in a row

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

Malcolm Jenkins makes it four in a row in absences for the training camp, this is due to the fact that they are still on negotiations with his contract. The Saints have three NFL cornerbacks. He is the only to fill the vacuum. Payton wants all his first round picks in camp for training since he wants his best players on the field. This is the key, but now they will have to do with who is available.

The negotiations with the contract between Jenkin and the saints have made the Mickey Loomis the team manager very pessimistic that they will reach an agreement. Jenkins overall is the 14th pick from Ohio State. Brian Cushing is tied with Jenkins and is also signed in camp. The Saints at present, have the best depth at the position. The second coach of the Saints said the guys behind are also getting better everyday and they have a good team to work with.

Leinart Still Cardinals Backup QB

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

Matt Leinart failed to keep his position in the Cardinals as the starting quarterback. Now he is battling it out to be number 2. Their coach, Whisenhunt told Pierre he would be a backup and that is what happened in the camp for the first week. He said that they are just pushing me like they have done in the past. He has gone through different situations and this is just one of them.
He also said that he is convinced with his abilities and he just laugh when some say that his NFL profession is a busted. For him, he should not mind those comments and that some people just make controversy. And that being second team linebacker is not a big deal. Leinart has the Heisman Trophy and was the leader of the USC to two national championships when he came to the Cardinals. He never complained and what he wants is to continue playing and he loves competition.

American Football Hall of Fame

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

The date April 10 decided whose picture and name would join the Hall of Fame. Gridiron Ballet, shot by Keith Randolph, won the 41st Annual Pro Football Hall of Fame Photo Contest. Keith Randolph is also the Pro Football Weekly photographer. The image caught Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson as he hurdles an airborne Detroit Lions defender, which was played last October 12, 2008, held at the Hubert Humphrey Metrodome.

This prestigious contest is sponsored by Canon USA, the official camera of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The entries for this photo contest included the photographs taken during the 2008 NFL season, which included the Super Bowl XLII and the 2009 Pro Bowl. While Randolph’s entry won the first place in the Action category, Al Tieleman’s photograph, entitled ‘Terrell Owens”, shows former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Terrell squirting quarterback, Tony Romo, with a water bottle. The picture was taken on September 7, at the Cleveland Browns Stadium.

Judging of the contest was done April 10, with the most leading and foremost photo editors and photographers, led by Ben Liebenberg, who is the lead photographer/photo editor of NFL.Com, Tony Tomsic, Paul Spinneli, Ed Suba, and John H. Reid III.

Being heralded as winner for this year, would mean being officially honored at the Enshrines GameDay Roundtable, on August 9. The multi-day enshrinement is highlighted by the induction of Class of 2009, which will be done on August 8, and then followed by the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game, the next day. Fame Game will be showcasing the Buffalo Bills and the Tennessee Titans.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame which started in 1963 now has 17 charter inductees which played for the NFL with the exception of the Buffalo guard, Billy Shaw, who has always played for the AFL (American Football League). The team with the most number of Hall of Famers at 26, is the Chicago Bears.

The news around the NFL

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

The news around the NFL drafting dominated the news during this period. It noted events that actually took place, to those that weren’t noted, but happened all the same. This included the move of Jason Peters to the Philadelphia Eagles, from Buffalo Bills, as the 28th overall choice.

A summary of the top 5 supposed shifts that were never made:

1. Braylon Edward’s move to the New York Giants, from the Cleveland Brows
This move was supposed to be made because of Edward’s bargain to double his pay (US$4.5million), and the move to the Giants, was not completed because of the too high pay that was requested during the first round pick.

2. Anquan Boldin’s move
The move was not just moved faster along…as there were no offers given to the Arizona Cardinal as was expected. Only one was actually put forward, and this was even done on the second-round pick.

3. Julius Peppers’ hesitation
It seems that the move of Julius Peppers to another team would not be materializing. Although the New England Patriots were anxious to sign him up, Peppers gummed up the signing by not signing the one year contract offered to him. It seems that he was waiting for something else to be offered…which would seem to be too idealistic of him.

4. San Francisco 49ers unable to deal with their quarterback need
The Niners got Nate Davis, from the Ball State, but having a learning disability, he may be a practice-squad player only for this season. But trying to be optimistic, they would be able to get first dibs on the extra first round picks in 2010.

5. Bills getting new picks for who would be ‘guards’
Other teams were trying to anticipate the team of the Buffalo Bills to move and pick on other players, not seeing its move. Their pick on both Eric Wood, originally from Louisville, and Andy Levitre, originally from Oregon State. Wood positioned as center, and Levitre, positioned as tackle, would both now be moved to guards’ position.

Panthers place DT Kemoeatu on season-ending injured reserve

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

SPARTANBURG, S.C. -- The Carolina Panthers placed starting defensive tackle Maake Kemoeatu on injured reserve Wednesday, ending his season on the same day that he underwent surgery on his torn right Achilles' tendon.The Panthers replaced Kemoeatu on their 80-man roster with undrafted rookie George Hypolite.
Kemoeatu was injured just minutes into Carolina's first training-camp practice Monday. Kemoeatu said Tuesday that he was holding out hope of returning for the last month of the season, but the Panthers couldn't hold a roster spot that long."It was kind of expected," Panthers coach John Fox said of the decision to put Kemoeatu on injured reserve. "Usually an Achilles' rupture is that kind of injury. I think the surgery went well, and we'll start the rehab process."
Hypolite, a 6-foot-1, 290-pounder who played at Colorado, was waived by the Jacksonville Jaguars last month. He was on the field, wearing No. 75, for Carolina's second practice Wednesday.The Panthers likely will continue to look for help at defensive tackle, where they had little depth even before Kemoeatu's injury.

The NFL

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

The NFL has always been a place where only the strong survive. It’s Darwinism on an instant, grandiose scale. If you cannot take the hits, outrun and outlast the competition, your career will be shorter than Gary Coleman.
fball

One of the game’s toughest quarterbacks on the field was brutally slain last week off it. Steve “Air” McNair, professional quarterback in the NFL from 1995 to 2007, was found dead in his Nashville, Tennessee condo, shot several times, twice in the head and twice in the torso. Police have ruled the shooting a homicide and have stated McNair died early Saturday morning, July 4.

His suspected girlfriend, Saleh Kazemi, was also found dead on the condo floor, suffering one gunshot wound to the head. Although the police claim foul play, it still isn’t clear whether or not Kazemi murdered McNair before taking her own life, or if there was another party in the condo. However, police state that they are not pursuing suspects.

The details of this tragedy are too sordid to discuss with any clarity, not to mention too much a slap in the face to Steve McNair’s legacy. He was an incredible athlete, a pillar of the community, and a loving father of four young children, all boys.

Steve wasn’t an athlete shrouded in criminal activity, like so many today. He wasn’t a habitual drunk driver, a wife beater, or a rowdy individual whatsoever. He wasn’t even the type to participate in online gambling. Steve was arrested once, however, for a gun charge, but after learning that the gun was legally registered, all charges were dropped.

McNair should be remembered for his accomplishments on the field. Coming out of Alcorn State, Air McNair was a brilliant member of Tennessee’s (formerly the Houston Oilers) dynamic duo alongside Eddie George. The Titans were perennial favorites in their division, and came within a yard of Super Bowl glory in 2000.

Tennessee, behind the strong arm of McNair and running ability of George, would reach the AFC Championship against in 2002, only to lose to the Oakland Raiders.

Having suffered injuries throughout the late ‘90s and early 2002, McNair’s career was on a downward spiral from ’03 to ’05. With the ever-strengthening play of division rival Peyton Manning, and the emergence of Tom Brady, also in the AFC, the Titans were panicked and made a hasty decision with McNair.

After drafting Vince Young, a promising QB from Texas, the Titans unceremoniously severed ties with McNair. Undeterred, Steve landed in Baltimore and earned his stripes in a new city as the Ravens’ starting quarterback.

In McNair’s first season as Baltimore’s quarterback—2006—he led the team to a 13-3 record, a division title, and another trip to the AFC Championship. The Ravens lost the contest to the Indianapolis Colts, and in the next season, McNair suffered a slue of injuries. He announced his official retirement from the game in April of 2008.

McNair was one of the game’s best quarterbacks while playing. He was known for his ability to inspire a team, play while injured, and the will to never give in. He will be sorely missed by friends, family and fans alike.
In News
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NFL Draft Picks

BraylonThe news around the NFL drafting dominated the news during this period. It noted events that actually took place, to those that weren’t noted, but happened all the same. This included the move of Jason Peters to the Philadelphia Eagles, from Buffalo Bills, as the 28th overall choice.

A summary of the top 5 supposed shifts that were never made:

1. Braylon Edward’s move to the New York Giants, from the Cleveland Brows
This move was supposed to be made because of Edward’s bargain to double his pay (US$4.5million), and the move to the Giants, was not completed because of the too high pay that was requested during the first round pick.

2. Anquan Boldin’s move
The move was not just moved faster along…as there were no offers given to the Arizona Cardinal as was expected. Only one was actually put forward, and this was even done on the second-round pick.

3. Julius Peppers’ hesitation
It seems that the move of Julius Peppers to another team would not be materializing. Although the New England Patriots were anxious to sign him up, Peppers gummed up the signing by not signing the one year contract offered to him. It seems that he was waiting for something else to be offered…which would seem to be too idealistic of him.

4. San Francisco 49ers unable to deal with their quarterback need
The Niners got Nate Davis, from the Ball State, but having a learning disability, he may be a practice-squad player only for this season. But trying to be optimistic, they would be able to get first dibs on the extra first round picks in 2010.

5. Bills getting new picks for who would be ‘guards’
Other teams were trying to anticipate the team of the Buffalo Bills to move and pick on other players, not seeing its move. Their pick on both Eric Wood, originally from Louisville, and Andy Levitre, originally from Oregon State. Wood positioned as center, and Levitre, positioned as tackle, would both now be moved to guards’ position.
In News
American Football Hall of Fame

The date April 10 decided whose picture and name would join the Hall of Fame. Gridiron Ballet, shot by Keith Randolph, won the 41st Annual Pro Football Hall of Fame Photo Contest. Keith Randolph is also the Pro Football Weekly photographer. The image caught Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson as he hurdles an airborne Detroit Lions defender, which was played last October 12, 2008, held at the Hubert Humphrey Metrodome.
This prestigious contest is sponsored by Canon USA, the official camera of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The entries for this photo contest included the photographs taken during the 2008 NFL season, which included the Super Bowl XLII and the 2009 Pro Bowl. While Randolph’s entry won the first place in the Action category, Al Tieleman’s photograph, entitled ‘Terrell Owens”, shows former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Terrell squirting quarterback, Tony Romo, with a water bottle. The picture was taken on September 7, at the Cleveland Browns Stadium.Judging of the contest was done April 10, with the most leading and foremost photo editors and photographers, led by Ben Liebenberg, who is the lead photographer/photo editor of NFL.Com, Tony Tomsic, Paul Spinneli, Ed Suba, and John H. Reid III.Being heralded as winner for this year, would mean being officially honored at the Enshrines GameDay Roundtable, on August 9. The multi-day enshrinement is highlighted by the induction of Class of 2009, which will be done on August 8, and then followed by the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game, the next day. Fame Game will be showcasing the Buffalo Bills and the Tennessee Titans.The Pro Football Hall of Fame which started in 1963 now has 17 charter inductees which played for the NFL with the exception of the Buffalo guard, Billy Shaw, who has always played for the AFL (American Football League). The team with the most number of Hall of Famers at 26, is the Chicago Bears.

REAL MADRID SIGNS XABI ALONSO FROM LIVERPOOL FC

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

The final piece of the new REAL MADRID jig-saw puzzle LIVERPOOL
FC midfielder XABI ALONSO will be transferred for the agreed price
of 30M€ + 4€ in variable. Liverpool gave their OK to Real Madrid
yesterday & the player will sign for the next 4 years with a salary
of 4.5M€/year.

Alonso will today do the medical exams, a press conference & join his
new team mates for the trip to the US for their round of scheduled
friendly matches. With this last signing Real Madrid has shut their
squad for 2009-2010 according to Director General Jorge Valdano.
Real Madrid has invested a total of 254M€ to reconstruct the team.

REAL MADRID AGREES TO TRANSFER HUNTELAAR

by Muhammad Ashhar Hasan

REAL MADRID AGREES TO TRANSFER HUNTELAAR TO AC MILAN
News in from Italian sports daily “La Gazzetta dello Sport” & picked
up here locally by “AS” & “Marca” inform that REAL MADRID has
come to an agreement with AC MILAN to transfer its Dutch forward
HUNTELAAR for 18M€.

This way Real Madrid continues to “empty” its overflowing squad &
Milan get the young forward desired at the price of leaving Sevilla
FC Brazilian International forward Luis Fabiano where he is currently.
Real Madrid lose in the operation as earlier German side Stuttgart had
offered almost 20M€ to which the player refused to go. The need by
Madrid to cut its current squad members, get some cash in & its good
relationship with Milan have all contributed to get the operation to
good port. The player himself should be happy as AC Milan will be in
Champions & he can show his talents there to secure his place in the
Dutch national side for next years upcoming World Cup in South Africa.

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