ABQ Sports October 2011 Issue

EVOLUTION!jOHNNY TAPIA RETURNS YAFL

GROWING STRONG IN NEW MEXICO

®

Serving the greater New Mexico central region

New Mexico’s Premiere Sports Magazine October 2010

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ReadersWe thank you for indulging your time into our maga-

zine. Got any feedback? We would enjoy any ideas,

suggestions or anything we missed, please feel to

contact us anytime by phone, email, or mail.

WritersABQ Sports is a monthly magazine dedicated to cov-

ering all aspects of the Albuquerque and surrounding

communities scene. We accept stories and photos for

consideration. Email: [email protected]

Online subscription!I am very pleased with your process for online subscription services. I live out of town and like the Convenience of viewing the magazine online. Keep up the coverage of the sport scene in the 505!

Chris StephensLas Cruces, NM

From our readers

Carlos Montoya

IsaiahMontoya

Dave Friedlander

Paula West

Jonathan R. Clark

KerrAdams

KaylaMontoya

Robert WK Clark

“It’s been tremendously exciting for me to be able to be on the third publication,” We have accomplished so much over the last 3 Months. Visit our newly renovated web-site, thanks to the guys at New Mexico Business Ventures for an awesome job! I am very blessed to be able to provide our readers insight and images of different sporting events, sports venues, and awesome local athletes, from Belen to Los Alamos and everywhere in-between.

“The ABQ area has so many amazing sports facilities and venues,” “The Lobo’s Pit is newly renovated, which we duly highlight in the current issue, and local casinos have both recently held ABQ Sports covered events. Various local golf courses have also proven viable and excitement filled sports event venues.”

I see the ABQ area as an increasingly significant athletic community. “So many local sportsters are earning scholarships to a diverse gauntlet of colleges and universities, which enhances them athletically and academically,”

“ABQ’s got talent,” If you are a local sports fan, you simply must get out to an athletic competition.

I extend my gratitude to local businesses that have supported, sponsored and advertised in ABQ Sports over the first three months. “These community minded organizations are driving ABQ Sports to new locations and therefore new readers.”

Enjoy!

Coming up next issue...Rugby, UNM basketball, Hockey, Motorsports, Skateboarding, Football, Bicycling And much more!

ABQ SPORTS MAGAZINE IS HIRING. We are looking for energetic advertis-ing sales representatives and we’d like to meet some bloggers [email protected]

ABQ Sports Fans®

Cover photo by Carlos Montoya. La Cueva gets ready for some

football action!

Get them while there hot: La Cueva ......................................................................6

Welcome to the Pit ..............................................................................................16

Santa Ana Star Casino NM Open 2010 ................................................................20

2010 Coleman Vision Tennis Championships .......................................................25

Manzano Volleyball ...............................................................................................8

In The Cage ........................................................................................................11

YAFL league .........................................................................................................24

BMX action............................................................................................................26

Soccer scene .......................................................................................................28

Features

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4 October 2010 abqsportsmag.com • 5

No up’s and down’s this season for the number one ranked in the state La Cueva Bears; just up’s. Varsity head coach Fred Romero hopes to lead ABQ’s own, 2009 state title holder’s to a repeat in

2010 and they are off to a smashing start!

Fred Romero is in his 11th season as varsity football head coach with La Cueva. So far he has led La Cueva to eight

district titles and three state championships (including last year); and his 2010 team is on pace to repeat. His coaching record since 2000 is a stellar 101 wins and 26 losses.

With such prior success, how does Romero feel about his 2010 team? “Were pretty happy at this point and we’ve been successful,” said Romero at a Monday practice before the big mid-season showdown with cross-state rival Mayfield (Las Cruces). “Our running game is what we want it to be. We’d like to be able to throw it a bit more. We lost a wideout in game one to an ankle injury; Brian Herrera (6’2” 179), but he is due back.”

Are there any weaknesses on this year’s team? “I was worried about our defense because we graduated many of our best defensive players,” said Romero. “I am happy with the way our guys are playing defense. All of our coaches are back from last year and we teach good technique every year. Our freshman and JV teams do the same so we bring them up through those ranks. We are taking it game by game.”

Romero’s father was a coach for 25 years so Jr’s refined coaching skills are evident each season. He humbly said, “I attribute La Cueva’s continued success to dedication and commitment from the kids and the support from their parents and the community and high expectations.”

Stan Sedberry is a running back/linebacker (6’3” 206.) for La Cueva and he has made his way up the ranks. “Last year I didn’t get a lot of playing time but I kept

practicing and then I earned it and I’m having fun.”

What does the already one-time state champion think of La Cueva’s 2010 version and chances at a repeat? “We have a really good team,” beamed Sedberry. “I’m liking the undefeated winning season and I hope we can keep it. We want to come out strong and win it all. We’ve got to come out, be perfect and hit them in the mouth.”

By Isaiah Montoya Photos by Carlos Montoya

Get It While It’s Hot: La Cueva Bears

Sedberry hopes to one day enter medical school and he is currently analyzing the possibilities of entering college somewhere in California.

Triple threat player Ronnie Daniels (running Back/wide receiver/linebacker) is a 6’2” 204 lb. senior who was a big factor in the blowout first half vs. Highland High School for La Cueva’s late September homecoming. The team outscored Highland 49-6 by halftime!

How did he force the action to score so many touchdowns? “I like to work out and to make the work out count,” revealed Daniels. “I don’t go out there and loaf around. I like to give it all I’ve got. Everything is coming together nicely. We are almost 100% and we’re killing teams.”

On Monday, the team focused on offensive practice. Tuesday is defensive practice. Wednesday and Thursday is combo practice and Friday is pre game practice, in preparation for Mayfield which they beat last year for the state title.

Said Daniels, “Practice is good but if you want to make it to the big leagues you must put in extra time on your own. Get out there and hit the gym,” like his pro running back heroes Jim Brown and Adrian Peterson. Daniels has been recruited by UNM, NMSU, Illinois, East Carolina, Minnesota, Arkansas, Utah, and San Diego State, but, “I love money so am going to Texas Tech and majoring in business,” said Daniels.

Overall, ABQ’s number one ranked team is also number one in the state. Can they keep it up all season? According to Romero, “At first we weren’t sure about the number one ranking because sometimes you get to be number one because you were number one the year before. We have a lot to prove. So far we are heading in the right direction. Our goal is to repeat!” Stay tuned ABQ Sports fans!

Matthew Neustedter tries to block a kick

Michael WalshZach Nelson

◄More photos online at abqsportsmag.com


With only one senior on Manzano High School’s Varsity

volleyball team, Carol Barnitz head coach considers this to be

a building season. Manzano faced an experienced, and much

taller, Albuquerque Academy team on Sept. 14.

“We have a very young team this year as there is only

one senior on the team,” she said before the second go against

Academy in seven days. “It is a challenge because we are

building a team. We do have five returning players from last year

and four of them are juniors and one is a sophomore. It is a big

adjustment to go from JV to Varsity because of the faster pace of

the game at Varsity level.”

How is the team attempting to improve? “We are

practicing through repetition and learning defense and

rotations,” she said. “We are not a big team so it is all about ball

control and we have 12 girls that can contribute.”

What plan did Barnitz devise to overcome a team they

lost to the week before? “We need to pass and dig and read

their players better,” she said. “We need to eliminate unforced

errors against Academy.” They must also do so against strong

division competitors like La Cueva, Eldorado and Sandia all year.

Manzano (now 3-4) showed team spirit and much

moxy but lost to Academy (now 8-1) this night.

Yet not to worry, said Barnitz. “These girls are truly

competitive and they want to win and are willing to work hard to

make it happen. Rebuilding, to me, is a two to three year project

so there here is some from for growth.”

Manzano Volleyball Rebuilds

By Isaiah Montoya Photos by Carlos Montoya

These girls are truly competitive and they want to win and are willing to work hard to make it happen.

With hopes for another Super Bowl Championship, the Rio Rancho Juniors are heading to the playoffs with a 7-1 season record.

The Rio Rancho team coached by Ramon Casaus has been together for 6 years now and has racked up an impressive record of 63 wins and 10 losses. Within the 6 years the team has achieved numerous titles; 2005 - 2010 Conference Champion, two time Semi-Finalists (2005, 2009), two time Super Bowl Runner Ups (2006, 2007), 2008 Super Bowl Champion, three times defending State Champions (2007-2009), and two time Golden Classic Champions (2007, 2008) in Golden, Colorado.

The team consists of 12 and 13 year old boys, whom many have played together for the entire 6 years. “This team never ceases to amaze me,” quotes Coach Scott Parnell who has been with the team through the years. The accomplishments does not stop on the field, most of the boys are also honor roll students, well rounded and respectful boys which Coach Casaus tells the boys, “School comes first”.

By Monica Yamada Photos by Carlos Montoya

The team hopes to add another Super Bowl and State Championship to their accomplishments this year. This year the team will travel to Las Vegas, Nevada for the National Youth Football Championships during the Thanksgiving weekend.

SEE YOU AT THE PLAYOFFS!


Ryan Anderson

Javier Salazar


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Keith “The Dean of Mean” pounds Prangley

Story and Photos By Dave Friedlander

Shark FightsKeith Jardine and Joey Villasenor did battle Saturday September 11th at Shark Fights 13 at Amarillo’s Civic Center. MMA Legends Bas Rutten and Don Frye handled the commentating duties for the card which also consisted of UFC veterans Alexander Houston, Sokoudjou and Paul Daley.

Albuquerque’s “Smokin” Joey Villasenor took on Brazilian Danillo Vilefort. Both men landed a few stiff jabs early but after Villasenor landed a heavy right cross Vilefort decided to take it to the ground where he could use his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu expertise. Villasenor fought off a couple of submission attempts and got back to his feet where he landed a solid uppercut and later a straight right. Vilefort again took it to the ground to finish the round. The next two rounds went much the same way, Vilefort staying out of trouble standing and scoring takedowns to win a Unanimous decision.

In the Evening’s main event Shark Fights 205lb champ Trevor Prangley took on Keith “The Dean of Mean” Jardine. Jardine, 15-9-1, had fought his last thirteen fights in the UFC dating back to 2005, in which he holds wins against former champs Chuck Liddell and Forrest Griffin. Prangley, 23-6-1, has fought around the world for many big organizations including the UFC, Strikeforce and Bodog. The two seasoned fighters didn’t waste much time feeling each other out; both landed solid shots before clinching against the cage where Prangley opened a cut above Jardine’s eye. A scramble led to Jardine on his back where he threw up a tight armbar attempt, but Prangley was able to work free. The second round was a standup battle with the highlight coming when Prangley landed a solid right that dropped Jardine. The veteran of many stand-up battles, Jardine quickly re-composed himself and got back to his feet. In the third round Prangley appeared more fatigued than Jardine and spent most of the round moving back. Jardine was able to catch him with a few solid rights as the third round came to a close but it was Prangley winning a split decision with scores of 29-28, 29-28, and 29-28 for Jardine.

13

With football season in full swing, it seems the talk once again centers on concussions from the eight year old playing YAFL, to the big boys in the NFL. In the middle of all that is the high school level where one state has stepped out of bounds on handling head injuries. The National Federation of State High School Association (NFHS) has

strengthened their stance when it comes to removing a player due to symptoms of a concussion. No longer does the player have to be unconscious. I applaud this move.

My trouble lies with the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) adding to the rule of who is responsible to enforce this rule. The CIF has now given power to the referees to remove a player from the game, if the official suspects the player has suffered a concussion. The player will not be allowed to return to that game or practice until a medical professional has given written clearance.

OvertimeThis means I would be able to tell a player he can’t

play. I am a licensed New Mexico Activities Association (NMAA) baseball umpire. If this rule was adopted by NMAA I could have a baseball player sit out the rest of the game after he gets hit in the head.

Want to know what training I have in diagnosing head injuries? None! Like most of the high school officials across sports in all 50 states, we are not medical professionals.

For the CIF to push for referees to take players out if they suspect head injury really creates a problem. If a referee tells the student-athlete he can’t play but three plays later a doctor says he can go back in, how does that referee look?

What if the backup player does something that causes his team to lose while the starting player was on the sideline because the referee said he couldn’t play? The blame coaches, parents and fans would throw on that official would be unfair because the referee was just protecting the best interests of the athlete. Something the CIF is pushing for this season.

Think about the other side of the coin. What if a referee doesn’t step in a force a player to the sideline with a possible head injury and it turns out the player did suffer a head trauma? If the player in the worst case scenario dies, or has life lifelong debilitation, the referee could possibly be named in a lawsuit. I admit I am as much of a lawyer as a doctor. I am sure, sadly, that some lawyer would be able to create a civil suit against a referee for not doing what the CIF has instructed referees to do.

High school officials who get paid $36-$50 a game, who also have to pay at least $50 to obtain their state license and personally invest in buying all their equipment and uniforms don’t need this added stress.

The referee that works as a teacher, at Sandia Labs, on Kirtland Air Force Base, as an insurance agent or any other job has no authority and training to diagnose a concussion. The CIF is basically saying anyone can be doing someone else job. Let’s allow the doctors and athletic trainer who have proper training to say when an athlete is not fit to play.

If we keep letting untrained people do the jobs of others, what will this world come to? Would you take your car to the local banker for them to fix your brakes?

By Adam Minnick


Silver City – Promoter Dave May delivered a thrilling MMA card to the fight fans of Grant County. Ten bouts featuring talent from New Mexico, Texas, and Arizona thrilled the crowd at the Grant County Event Center Saturday night.

In the lone female bout of the night Courtney Casey and Jazmine Quezada stood toe-to-toe firing kicks and punches for the first round. In the second Quezada took Casey down but was reversed. After landing a few punches and defending Casey’s submission attempts Quezada found herself caught in a tight triangle and was forced to tap. Both girls displayed talent and grit but Casey used her experience to weather down the game Quezada en route to the submission victory.

In perhaps the Fight of the Night James Brennan weathered a frenetic flurry of punches from James Woods in the co-main event. In the second round Brennan began to gain speed counter-punching effectively and landing a few knees from the clinch. Woods continued to press the pace going into the third but Brennan put him on his back and caught him with some big shots from standing leading to a TKO.

In the Main event Edrick Lopez and Cisco Valenzuela met at 270lbs. Lopez pressed Valenzuela against the cage and dirty boxed. He then took Valenzuela down but was swept while going for a Kimura. Once on top Valenzuela seized the opportunity for some heavy ground and pound and sealed the deal with a TKO before the round ran down.

powerhouse combat firestorm


Top left: Courtney Casey sets up an armbar on Jazmine QuezadaTop Right: James Brennan and James Woods give each other a face full

Bottom: Heavyweight Cisco Valenzuela TKO’s Edrick Lopez in the Main event

Saturday night a packed crowd at the Hard Rock witnessed the triumphant return of local boxing hero Johnny Tapia who TKO’d his opponent midway through the fourth to cap off a superb six fight card.

In the second half of the card, at 132lbs Albuquerque’s Randy Arrellin improved his record to (6-3, 4 KOs) against Brandon Quintana of Odessa. Quintana couldn’t find an answer to Arrellin’s quick jab. When he did get inside he stayed covered up, scoring only occasionally throughout the six rounds. Arrellin earned a convincing unanimous decision. In the co-main event 135lb hometown fighter Frankie Archuleta (27-7-1, 14KOs) put on a clinic against El Paso’s Jorge Reyes (21-29-2, 17KOs). Amazingly Reyes didn’t wilt under Archuleta’s constant barrage; he continued to press forward walking into punches. Archuleta scored a resounding unanimous decision.

The evening’s main event held local boxing icon Johnny “Mi Vida Loca” Tapia (58-5-2, 29KOs) against Jose Alonso (32-16-2, 15KOs) in a 10 rounder at 130lbs. Tapia entered the auditorium to loud chants dressed in his bespangled robe and sombrero and with his father and team by his side. The energy

in the room was palpable, the air beamed with pride as the local hero came to defend the history and culture of his city. In the early rounds both fighters landed some effective punches; Alonso even snapped Tapia’s head back with a pinpoint jab proving he was a worthy opponent. But in the third round Tapia was able to keep Alonso against the ropes and punished him with uppercuts and hooks to the body. In the fourth round Alonso began to wear. Midway through the round Tapia again put Alonso against the ropes and battered him with body shots and uppercuts until the referee waived it off awarding Tapia a TKO to the elation of crowd.

“I love all of you. I couldn’t do it without you” Tapia told his adoring fans after having the WBU Championship belt placed around his waist. He went on to thank his family, trainers and countless supporters. With his wife, father, uncle and children by his side, along with his coaching staff, Tapia stood for photos and then listened as MC Mike Adams announced that Tapia’s next fight will be against co-main victor Frankie Archuleta.

EvolutionTop: Johnny Tapia punishes Jose Alonso against the ropes. Left: Randy Arrellin lands a cross to the chin of Brandon Quintana Bottom: Frankie Archuleta works the body of Jorge Reyes



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Falon Ring, 16, of Albuquerque is the new (July 25) amateur World Classic International Kickboxing Federation (IKF) Champion! The Jr. Boys (ages 16-17) title is for bantamweight class (110-120 pounds) and was won by Ring in Orlando, Florida against 17-year-old Devon Beasley.

“I came out swinging really hard and I finally got to the right openings,” said Ring (7-0) as he practiced at his gym, Rosales Karate. The Alaska native started fighting when he was seven doing Tae Kwon Do and boxing at home and then, “I came to Rosales and started winning,” said Ring. “I didn’t expect to get this high-up at this point but I’m working on my boxing right now because I have my kicks ready.”

How did it feel to win the world title? “I felt really great even though I was tired,” said Ring.

Falon’s dad, Robert was on hand and he said his son started fighting because of a bully. “In second grade he got in a fight and the guy got the best of him so I put him in Tae Kwon Do,” said dad. “A year later the kid tried to hit him and Falon whooped him. I’m proud because he is determined and sticks with it.” Slade Ring is Falon’s 14-year-old brother. “I think it’s awesome that he is the world champ and I have fun training with him.” Does he think he will be better than his big bro one day? “Yes,” said Ring. “I’m going to try and compete next year.”

By Isaiah Montoya

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The UNM Pit will be fully renovated Nov. 1 in time

for another action-packed season of men’s and

women’s Lobo hoops. Turn the page to read more about the pit.


According to Tim Cass, Senior Associate Athletics Director at UNM the Pit refurbishment has been in the works for as long as eight years. The 43-year-old building was in need of updating and it became a major priority four years ago.

“We evaluated the project and tried to create a vision for it,” said Cass to ABQ Sports. “We did that through various means and exercises. One was the master plan for all of our facilities and we did a lot of homework in terms of what would we want to accomplish and what price tag would be associated with that wish list. We were able to hone in on the wish list (including 15 years of fan requests) and a budget.”

Finally, a construction company was selected and the Pit went under construction about 20 months ago. “It was a major challenge while men’s and women’s basketball was going on,” explained Cass. “We had 60 events go on there during construction. We didn’t want to play all of our basketball games on the road so the project took two years to complete. Ironically we had one of our best years in school history in 2009-10. It helped that the fans were patient. They will hopefully be proud of the new product.” The new product includes 75,000 sq. feet added to the building. “Architecturally there is certainly a different look,” said Cass. “

The Pit is extremely well known and is an icon for all of us in the state of New Mexico. We wanted to preserve the history of the building.” This new square footage has allowed for added concessions, restaurants and widened concourses. There are several themed concessions. We were limited on what we could serve because of the small kitchen. We have a very large kitchen now. We will have a pizzeria and a carvery where you can slice meat off and make a fresh sandwich. There’s a sweet shop geared toward the kids and there’s a New Mexican Grill. We also will have six concessions where you can get nachos, hamburgers and hot dogs.

“The glass that you see architecturally outside is not just an architectural feature it’s also a feature to bring the outside in,” added Cass. “It sits on a wonderful piece of land so now, when you are inside you can actually see outside. At the old Pit there were no windows at all, so you never saw outside. When one walks in on the concourse they can actually look outside and see the twinkling lights of downtown or see the Sandia Mountains and that element wasn’t there in the pre-renovated form.” Additionally Cass said, “We tried to embrace technology. We implemented monitors in and around the concourse as opposed to fixed advertising. We will use these monitors to send messages to fans. There are two large videoboards and both ends of the arena that are 22’ x 11’ to see replays and highlights. There’s a ribbon board which is an excitable thing that goes around the entire concourse. It will add to the fan experience.”

Also, all the chair backs have been replaced and the benches have been redone. The aisles down are widened and now include a hand rail. The mezzanine level is also upgraded and 40 suites and 350 club seats are now available. There are private suites and 36 of the 40 are already sold and range from $40,000 to $45,000. There’s also a generous common space area of 15,000 sq. feet. The parking lot is new as are various walkways and lighting amenities. Also implemented is a turn circle so people could be dropped off and the UNM branding package utilizes Lobo prominent marks and logos. Be sure to make a Pit visit this basketball season, and beyond!

By Isaiah Montoya Photos by Kerr Adams

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A full field of 156 golfers from throughout the United States competed in the Santa Ana Star Casino New Mexico Open Sept. 16 through 18. Notable golfers that played in the tournament include PGA Tour Professionals Notah Begay (finished 30th), Brian Watts, Kris Cox, J.R. Roth and Jeff Hart, and, of course, the winner: (not a PGA Tour Pro yet) Chad Saladin, from Rolla, Missouri.

Saladin finished with an overall score of 198 and went 15 under par to win $15,000 from the PGA Sun Country Section and in second was Dusty Fielding from Richfield, Utah. Third place was captured by Edward Loar from Dallas, Texas.

Many local athletes were also in the competitive golf tournament. Don Yrene is another PGA tour pro who was in the mix. The Albuquerque native is now the Director of Golf at the

NM OPEN 2010Scottsdale, Az. Club and he has played in the NM Open since he was in high school (Highland HS).

The NMSU graduate (1989) and his wife of 23 years, Rhonda, and their three kids were in town expressly for the tournament. “My brother Mike and two partners created this golf course, so it’s sort-of a homecoming,” boasted Yrene. “The mountains and great weather are beautiful here.”

Since Santa Ana is a family thing, Yrene knows the course well. “You can shoot some low numbers on this course because it’s not real long, esp. with the elevation,” he said. “The rough is up and the greens are firm and fast but you can still get in some bad spots on this course. If you’re playing well hitting well and controlling your ball you can shoot a good score.”

According to Yrene, the competition at the event was, “Tough, and that is why consistency is so important.” Yrene knows what it takes as a result of his experience. He’s played in several PGA tour events and placed well in 2006 at Medina in Chicago. For young golf enthusiasts, Yrene said “It helps to start young and to play other sports.” He did not finish in the top 16 but was content, for the moment.

Director of Golf and GM of Santa Ana Golf Corp. Roger P. Martinez helped secure the NM Open. The past five years, the competition was held at Inn of The Mountain Gods near Ruidoso. The native El Pasoan has been at Santa Ana for 20 years now. He played college golf at NM Jr. College in Hobbs and then at NMSA for two years. He has been a PGA pro for the past 22 years.

Martinez is ecstatic that the NM Open is back at Santa Ana. “It’s here for a three year stay,” he said. “It’s wonderful and only fitting because last year we had the PGA Professional National Championship, which was televised on the Golf Channel and it had some ESPN coverage. Santa Ana has hosted just about everything, so we figured it was time to start bringing in some high-profile events.” He did not compete. “My first year in college I made first team All-American and then I had a car accident, and that was then end of my competitive golf. Now I’m a golf pro but not so much a pro golfer.” Nevertheless Martinez touts the tournaments history, and former NM Open winner Lee Trevino. “Notah Begay continues that tradition as we were one of his first sponsors when he became pro,” added Martinez. “These guys have a lot of talent. This is the start of great things to come!” While on that subject, Martinez gave ABQ Sports the exclusive fact that in 2015 the PGA Pro National Championships will be held at Twin Warriors and Santa Ana! And the World Senior Team Championships will be held there in 2012.

Steve Saunders, NM Open 2010 competitor should be here for the 2015 Championships at the rate he’s going. The former La Cueva HS and UNM golfer started playing golf, “When I was as young as can be,” he said. “I come from a big golfing family; my dad owns Dave’s Golf Mart, so it runs in the family.” Saunders previously won the state amateur tournament and he sees the NM Open as the next step up. He is only 23 years old.

“A lot of guys from here and across country are present at this competition so it will be a good test,” said Saunders. “This golf course is fun and there’s a lot of different ways to play out here. My strength is my course management. I don’t get myself into too much trouble or do anything crazy or stupid and I hit it pretty far.”

Saunders believes Albuquerque is a great place for golf. “The weather is good and we have some of the most beautiful scenery you could possibly have golf courses on,” he said. “There are a lot of people who are really passionate about the sport here. It’s a good place to grow up paying golf. A win here is extra special.” He finished tied for 11th place.

For young amateurs he said, “Stick with it and learn as much, from as many people, as you can. Do everything you


saNta aNa star casiNO

chaMPiONshiPsBy Isaiah Montoya Photos by Carlos Montoya

Chad Saladin Wins the 2010 New Mexico Open

Continued next page

Rodger MartinezSteve Saunders

Chandler Smith-Stetson Top Amateur in Tournament

Robb and wife Kendra BierbaumDon Yrene


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can to spread yourself around and play different golf courses and grasses and parts of the country.”

Robb Bierbaum grew up in South Dakota but played golf for UNM until May 2009. After UNM, he turned pro and has been playing mini-tour events in the Midwest and Southwest and now the NM Open. He started teaching the game of golf as an instructor at Golf Tec a year and a half ago and he utilized his own knowledge to go for the win. “I really try and get it to hit it straight off tee and make putts,” said Bierbaum. “I’m a decent iron player.” Bierbaum, 26, is also a newlywed. His wedding took place July 30, 2010. He married Kendra Bierbaum, who acted as his caddie at the NM Open. “I always followed him and support him in everything he does,” said Mrs. Bierbaum. “I try not to get to emotional and just keep level to keep his playing attitude good.”

For youth golfers Bierbaum said, “The Lord has really opened a lot of doors for me so I think its paying attention to where you’re led. Opportunities will come your way; and if you do the hard work and put in the time you will excel.” He finished out of the top 16. Martinez concluded, “It was a huge success and we saw many current and future professionals playing.” And we will continue to do so for the next few years, at least!

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The 13th annual Coleman Vision Tennis Tournament presented by Corley’s Lincoln Mercury Volvo took place at Tanoan Golf Course from Sept. 23-25; and various charities were benefitted. Overall Mirjana Lucic (Croatia) won the singles competition and Lindsay Lee-Waters and Megan Moulton-Levy won the doubles tournament. The all-women’s tournament exhibited professional tennis talent from across the planet; many of whom are, or have been, or hope to be, ranked amongst the top 100 in the world.

Seasoned veteran Mashona Washington, 34, competed in the tournament’s singles a doubles portions. She started as a child and played junior tennis, semi-pro tennis and then she turned pro. She is originally from Michigan, but she has lived and played in Florida and Houston, Texas, and she was back in Albuquerque. Washington lost in singles competition in the second round, although she is a former tournament champion. She was part of the winning duo in the 2009 Coleman Vision tournament doubles competition and this year, she and her partner (Abigail Spears) finished second overall, after losing in the doubles finals vs. winners Lindsay Lee-Waters and Megan Moulton-Levy 2-6 6-3 (10-8) “My strengths are overall strength, my backhand, forehand, strong volleys and I’m quick,” stated Washington between games. “You need speed in doubles.” She continued, “A lot of people say 34 is older, but I want to dispel that notion. I’m going to play for a couple more years.” She is working toward a real estate sales license.

For the youth who hopes to one day go pro she said, “When you are young you have to focus on what you are doing and really try to improve. You must get right coaching and training and you have to stick with it. Be open to constructive criticism.” Sue Dollenson, tournament director, was on hand for the fast-paced action. Also the President of the NM Youth Tennis Foundation (NMYTF), she, in 2007, incorporated the NMYTF with the tournament and, “We took over the operation of the tournament from the SW Tennis Foundation,” she said. Dollenson was a pro once. She played the Virginia Slims qualifying events and played the circuit challengers in Florida. She played college tennis (pre-title 9) at the U. of Az. Tucson, UCLA and UNM. As director she has the power to give a couple of ‘wild cards’ to players that may be ready to compete at this level. La Cueva High’s

Gaby Otero was a ‘wild card’ and she won her first round match but lost in the second round. “We love to see a local kid do well. Until you have a chance to compete against this type of player, you do not know what you can do. As soon as you start playing better competition your game goes up.”Makaela Besdikova from Czech Republic also received a ‘wild card’. She’s a freshman at UNM on the women’s tennis team. Daria Gabrilova, recent US Open Jr. winner, competed. She will likely be ranked #1 in world on the United States Tennis Association (usta.com) pro circuit. Sloan Stevens played. She was a semi-finalist in Jr. Girls Singles at the US open.

Finally, a few causes were benefitted by the proceeds of the tournament. Wendy Thomas, La Cueva girl’s tennis coach ran a booth for Komen for the Cure. “My first year coaching; my senior captain was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma,” said Thomas. “The whole team supported her during her chemo therapy. We have a heart for how awful cancer is.” In all, the NM Youth Tennis Foundation, The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and the Susan G. Komen for the Cure were all aided.

Final results for the tournament are: Singles Final – Mirjana, Lucic (Croatia) beat Lindsay Lee-Waters to win the tournament 6-1, 6-4. Doubles Final – Lindsay Lee-Waters and Megan Moulton-Levy beat Mashona Washington and Abigail Spears 2-6, 6-3, (10-8). Stop in next year!

Tennis’ Vision

Curefor aBy Isaiah Montoya Photos by Delese Dellios

The New Mexico Young American Football League (YAFL) consists of 7 divisions ranging from ages 7 to 14 years old. Each division has anywhere from 14 to 32 teams. This growing organization led by volunteer coaches provides young athletes an opportunity to

learn the fundamentals of football, sportsmanship, and life skills.

This is my third year coaching the Rio Rancho Rams football team. This year we are in the rookies division which consists of 9 and 10 year olds. I have 8 veteran players that have been with me for three years, Elijah Alvarado, Xavier Apodaca, Bryce Boning, Santiago Bueschel, Jeremiah Lopez, Andrew Lovato, Ethan Rushing, and Zach Yamada. This year we had 14 returning players and 11 new players. With continuous team and skill building we have had a successful year and hope to end the regular season with a 6-2 record heading into the playoffs. The team will face challenges as

YAFLNEW MEXICO

YOUNG AMERICAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE

they play against other good teams in the playoffs, but the boys always play hard come game day.

Sports teach youth discipline, dedication, and commitment. Everyone loves to win, but losing also builds character. As a coach, I love to win, but the values we strive to instill in the players are a much more significant outcome. We teach these boys good sportsmanship regardless of a win or loss. Every year I see the kids continue to mature into fine young boys. It is rewarding to see these boys become great athletes and students.

The boys love the game of football and love to play. It’s exciting to hear the boys talk about their favorite pro football player and sometimes even compare themselves to that player. My goal is to teach all I can about the game and fundamentals of football with hope that these players continue to pursue their dreams of playing high school, college, and maybe even pro ball.

By Ted Yamada Photos by Carlos Montoya

◄More photos online at abqsportsmag.com◄More photos online at abqsportsmag.com


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New Mexico ABA BMx StAte chAMpioNShip huge SucceSS!The American Bicycle Association (ABA) is the largest sanctioning body in the united states and each year creates the opportunity for BMX racers to compete in the State Champion Series. Over the weekend of September 24th - 26th at Duke City BMX in Albuquerque riders of all ages competed for State Plates, designated by top points in the New Mexico State Championship Series. The track offers a free 1 day membership as well as the countries largest loaner bike & gear program designed to help new riders in the sport. The Loaner bike and gear program is free for the first 5 uses at the track. Duke City BMX is located at 1101 Buena Vista Se, Albuquerque, NM. 87106. 505 890.1269 www.dukecitybmx.org. VIEW ALL BMX RESULTS ONLINE AT ABQSPORTSMAG.COM

1. Mia “Princess of Duke” Reyes-Ruiz 2. Kreios Rocking the crowd at the BMX State Championship 3. Kailey Smith 11, Albuquerque, Victoria Gonzales 14,Rio Rancho, Jade Altheide 12, Jemez Springs4. Turn that corner! 5. From Left To Right Rodney DeHerrera (Lead VocalsBass Guitar), Steve Sena (DrumsBack Up Vocals), Nathan DeHerrera (LeadRhythm GuitarBack up

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The Corrales Crush is off to a smashing start with a 2-1 victory over Bosque Prep. The Corrales Crush is a competitive U12 Girls team that plays up one year. This was the first game for the Crush and the first time many of the girls have played together. According to Coach Tony Bravo, they are starting to gel as a team. The girls typically play a small-sided format, but stepped it up to play 11-sided for this game. They included some of the younger Corrales Chiles’ team members to fill out the roster. It was an evenly matched and exciting game. The

Corrales CrushCrush was behind 0-1 at the half, but they rallied and took off in the second half. Their first goal was a well-placed shot off a corner kick. Their second goal came after a quick dribble down the field through the Bosque Prep players which included some fancy footwork. The Crush entertained the crowd with some thrilling plays, including some airborne maneuvers. The Crush is looking forward to their fall season in the Duke City U12 Girls bracket.

Micah Mueller

Kayla Montoya Madyson Barela guest player for Crush

Madyson Barela catches some air during a game with Bosgue

After having a successful first season and posting a record of 28-4-5 in the under 9 girls division, the Chiles from Corrales Soccer Club kicked off the 2010 campaign on the same winning note, finishing 3-1 in the Rio Vista Tournament August 28-29 to earn second place in the under 11 girls silver division.

The Chiles faced tough competition, but were able to win their first three games against the Hobbs Storm FC, ACFC Eclipse and the Alameda SC Animals to reach the championship game where they fell 4-0 to the Four Corners Pink United. To go along with their first second-place medal of the 2010 season, the Chiles competed in four competitive tournaments in 2009, totaling one first-place finish, one second-place finish and two third-place finishes. The Chiles made the transition from a 6v6 playing format in 2009, skipping the u10 division to play in an 8v8 format in the u11 division for the 2010 season. Along with the regular season schedule, the Chiles are scheduled to play in four more tournaments in Albuquerque and Durango throughout the season.

Corrales Chiles

1. Madyson Barela shoots for goal 2. Alea Stevenson fancy foot work 3. Jaiden Lara 4. Bryana Garcia1.

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By Linda Bravo Photos by Carlos Montoya

By Jeremy Barela Photos by Carlos Montoya



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I have lost count the number of times that I have heard, “There is roller derby in Albuquerque?” Yes, Albuquerque, there is roller derby in the Land of Enchantment! Duke City Derby began in August of 2005 with 10 determined skaters and an eye towards

rockstar dreams. When asked how it all got started, Nan Morningstar says, “We founded DCD in the fall of 2005 on a bet. I told John that we had to do it and he said we’d never get it off the ground! One of our goals as a business has always been to bring great things to do here to Albuquerque. Derby was a perfect fit. There aren’t many full contact sports for women. It has been amazing watching women who have never played a sport before come to embrace Roller Derby. Actually, embrace isn’t the right word. It completely takes over your life!” Nan and John Morningstar (owners of Free Radicals on Yale) are two of DCD founding members, and though retired from derby, they are our biggest contributing sponsors, mentors and fans! Newbie practices are at 6pm Mondays and Fridays at the Heights Community Center behind CNM (on Buena Vista South of Coal). Come see what you have been missing and stop thinking, you “Can’t”. We aren’t just going to have you put on some skates and throw you to the sharks, so don’t fret, we will teach you everything there is to know! See www.dukecityderby.com to purchase tickets and to get more info on sponsoring DCD, becoming a skater or referee, and to view our new forum!

30 October 2010

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ABQ Sports October 2011 Issue

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