OFISHE8

All I can figure is this: I think the VHSL and National Federation want to cut out the flopping because of the way it entices and excites the crowd. That maybe a player that flops might get coaches, players, and officials excited and/or mad. I have seen a couple of players flop this year and it was not called. We will probably see a lot more blocking calls as opposed to a technical I believe.

Also, you fans need to watch and see if the coaches get outside the coaching box this year. The boundaries have changed and I hear that officials are going to crack down on them being outside the box(esp. if they are challenging a call!!)

What about Jeff Hurst(RHS 89)? He could flat light it up from beyond the arc. I think he used to an equipment manager for those RHS Blues in the 80s?

Julius is a little quicker to the line of scrimmage than Thomas. It gives the Cowboys a little spark that was needed. I know Jerry and Bill are licking thier chops for next season. If they can get the defense back to where it was last season, they should contend over the next few years. Who makes the Super Bowl this year?

I am not comparing Ron Artest to high school students, I am saying that a situation such as the Pacers and Pistons could easily happen at a high school event. We should not encourage poor sportsmanship--This is what happened. This could lead to a potential dangerous situation. The VHSL Sportsmanship Rule does not support this type of fan behavior and/or administration being responsible for such actions premeditated by a free sign. We all need to lead by example and show the players and coaches that there is a proper way to act during a game.

Just a reminder to fans and players about the updated rules for girls and boys basketball for the 2004-2005 season. The main rule change is the closely guarded rule. The five second count will begin when the defensive player is wihtin six feet of the player with ball. Flopping/faking fouls is also a point of emphasis which will result in a technical foul. Make sure there is contact prior to flopping or faking. Also, undershirt sleeves must be hemmed and each sleeve must be the same length. Undershirts must be the same color as the predominant color of the jersey being worn that particular game. "LIVESTRONG" bracelets are not to be worn during a game and all knee braces with exposed metal hinges must be covered with a protective sleeve and cover!!

Fans were given free signs to hold and wave Saturday night at Clinchco. On one side the sign said GOOD CALL and the other side said BAD CALL. In the wake of the Ron Artest fracas and other poor sportsmanship displays, why would the tournament sponsors WDIC, Farmers/Merchants Bank, and Edwards Food? be foolish enough to give fans something like this. It sent a wrong message to the fans and gave each school that participated a black eye as far as VHSL Sportsmanship was concerned. Whether or not it was funny has nothing to do with the message it sent. Administration should be held accountable as well as the sponsors and apologies to the fans, students, players, and officials should be forthcoming.

Haysi Boys made a statement last night beating Council pretty easy. Look out Twin Valley! Heard they got beat by East Ridge. BDD shaping up to have a wild and crazy season. Anybody have any predictions? I say Haysi, TV, Council, Honaker, Hurley

Congrats to the Big Blues on a great season. Salem was the better team yesterday; however; if the Blues could have had something good happen(ie., fumble or int) it could have been a different ballgame. Salem's QB is the real deal and the ability to covert on third down was the key to the game. Richlands held their own and made the hometown crowd proud of thier effort. Hats off to players, coaches, and fans on a great season!! P>S> Who are the Hokies going to play? <font color="blue"> </font>