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      <title>The Roanoke Times: Press Box</title>
      <link>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/</link>
      <description>with our sports staff</description>
      <language>en</language>
      <copyright>Copyright 2008</copyright>
      <lastBuildDate>Sun, 11 May 2008 14:59:15 -0500</lastBuildDate>
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The Roanoke Times: Pressbox
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http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/
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            <item>
         <title>Hokies win ACC softball title</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>Mark Berman here in College Park, Md., where the second-seeded Virginia Tech Hokies beat fifth-seeded North Carolina State 2-0 to win the ACC softball tournament for the second straight year.</p>

<p>Angela Tincher threw a two-hitter for the Hokies, striking out 14 and walking one, to earn tournament MVP honors for the second straight year.</p>

<p>Tech (44-15) captured an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament. The pairings will be announced tonight.</p>

<p>Check back here tonight for the pairings info, and you can read the game story in Monday's Roanoke Times or online Monday.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/softball/hokies_win_acc_softball_title.html</link>
         <guid>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/softball/hokies_win_acc_softball_title.html</guid>
         <category>Softball</category>
         <pubDate>Sun, 11 May 2008 14:59:15 -0500</pubDate>
<author>sports@roanoke.com (sports)</author>
      </item>
            <item>
         <title>No Boundaries -- inspirations</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>When we talk about role models, we usually mean rock stars or actors or star athletes.</p>

<p>The women and men who completed the No Boundaries course by running or walking or a bit of both in the Gallop 4 the Greenways 5K race in Roanoke on Saturday are regular people with regular lives.</p>

<p>They are moms and grandmoms and stepmoms and petmoms and a few husbands and dads. They have jobs and worries and hassles and health issues -- just like the rest of us.</p>

<p>They are not more fit than we -- or at least they weren't when they started the NoBo program just 13 weeks ago. Their lives are not less complicated, less busy. They give the lie to all of our excuses.</p>

<p>Liz Scribner, one of the NoBos, said her 9-year-old son Ryan told her last fall that he had never seen her run.<br />
"How sad!!!" she said.</p>

<p>And she is right. Or make that <em>was</em> right.</p>

<p>Scribner's two sons, Ryan and Matthew, and her daughter Catie, have already seen their dad, Dennis, compete in triathlons. Now, they have seen that their mother can be strong and healthy too. </p>

<p>As much as kids look to television and sports teams for role models their most important ones will always be right there at home.</p>

<p>My own mom worked full time from the time I was in kindergarten but somehow managed to always come to my field hockey games when I was in high school. Now that she's a retired grandmother, she still works out regularly, plays golf, swims and both takes and teaches courses at her local community college.</p>

<p>She remains a role model, not just for my sister and me, but also for my nieces and nephew.</p>

<p><br />
How about you? Is there someone who inspires you to get off the couch?</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/no_boundaries_inspirations.html</link>
         <guid>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/no_boundaries_inspirations.html</guid>
         <category></category>
         <pubDate>Sat, 10 May 2008 21:46:20 -0500</pubDate>
<author>sports@roanoke.com (sports)</author>
      </item>
            <item>
         <title>Jody Gerut makes it big -- again</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>Former Salem Avalanche outfielder Jody Gerut was called up by the San Diego Padres on Friday, playing in something of a Salemite reunion against the Colorado Rockies.</p>

<p>The Rockies were Salem's major league affilate for 10 years, and on the Colorado side of the diamond on Friday were starting pitcher Aaron Cook (Avs 2000-01), left fielder Matt Holliday (2000-01), third baseman Garrett Atkins (2001), right fielder Brad Hawpe (2002) and shortstop Clint Barmes (2001).</p>

<p>On the Padres' side, was catcher Josh Bard (2000) and Gerut.</p>

<p>Gerut, a second round draft pick by the Rockies in 1998, hit .289 with 33 doubles, 63 RBI and 25 steals as an outfielder for the Avalanche in 1999.</p>

<p>The Rockies traded Gerut and Bard to the Indians and he made his major league debut with Cleveland in 2003 and played two full seasons before he tore his ACL in Sept. 2004. He was bartered about in 2005 and then was out of baseball for nearly two seasons. He made ripples in the Venezuelan Winter League and was invited to the Padres' training camp this spring. <br />
Gerut made the opening day roster, but was sent to Triple-A before he could dent his bat.</p>

<p><br />
By the way, Gerut did not lead the Avalanche in steals. That honor went to infielder Chone Figgins, who had 27 for Salem in 1999. Figgins is now in his seventh season with the California Angels, and won a World Series with the Angels in 2002.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/avalanche/jody_gerut_makes_it_big_again.html</link>
         <guid>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/avalanche/jody_gerut_makes_it_big_again.html</guid>
         <category>Avalanche</category>
         <pubDate>Sat, 10 May 2008 00:16:38 -0500</pubDate>
<author>sports@roanoke.com (sports)</author>
      </item>
            <item>
         <title>Interesting words from Phil Jackson</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>As I drove to work Wednesday morning, I heard Phil Jackson speaking on the radio about Kobe Bryant's NBA MVP award. He said nobody ever deserved and MVP award more or ever worked harder to get one. Jackson is Bryant's coach with the Los Angeles Lakers and once wrote some not very complimentary things about Kobe in a book. But far more strange is that Jackson was Michael Jordan's coach while Michael was winning MVPs and leading the Chicago Bulls to six NBA championships. Michael gets credit for playing harder than anyone else and wanting to win more than anyone else. Then Jackson rates Kobe as Michael's equal in working hard and in being deserving of praise. Not sure I would agree, but then who knows Michael and Kobe better than Phil? -- Jeff Gilbert</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/quick_thought/interesting_words_from_phil_ja.html</link>
         <guid>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/quick_thought/interesting_words_from_phil_ja.html</guid>
         <category>Quick thought</category>
         <pubDate>Wed, 07 May 2008 20:55:44 -0500</pubDate>
<author>sports@roanoke.com (sports)</author>
      </item>
            <item>
         <title>Tech softball on ESPN2 tonight</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>Tonight is finally the night. The Virginia Tech softball team's stunning 1-0 upset of the U.S. national team back in March will air on ESPN2 at 7 p.m. (Tuesday, May 6)</p>

<p>The rerun will be at 1:30 a.m.</p>

<p>The taped broadcast from Oklahoma City, featuring Angela Tincher's no-hitter and the end of the U.S. team's 185-game winning streak on its pre-Olympic tours, will air for two hours.</p>

<p>This is the first time the upset will be on TV. Not even highlights have aired on the local news, because the rights belong to ESPN2.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/softball/tech_softball_on_espn2_tonight.html</link>
         <guid>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/softball/tech_softball_on_espn2_tonight.html</guid>
         <category>Softball</category>
         <pubDate>Tue, 06 May 2008 00:08:58 -0500</pubDate>
<author>sports@roanoke.com (sports)</author>
      </item>
            <item>
         <title>Larry Brown a good hire for Bobcats</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>Larry Brown is back in North Carolina, this time to coach the Charlotte Bobcats. Will the NBA experience of Brown and his new boss, Michael Jordan, do anything for the Bobcats next season? Most likely it will. It is good to see Brown coming back to the league and doing what he loves to do and does better than most. We know he probably won't stay beyond his four-year contract (he'll be 71 when it expires) or he might not even last that long. But he will leave the team in better shape than it is now. What will really matter for the franchise is who they replace him with. Brown will raise the level of their play, but not many will be capable of following him and at least maintaining what he's grown. -- <strong>Jeff Gilbert</strong></p>]]></description>
         <link>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/quick_thought/larry_brown_a_good_hire_for_bo.html</link>
         <guid>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/quick_thought/larry_brown_a_good_hire_for_bo.html</guid>
         <category>Quick thought</category>
         <pubDate>Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:48:31 -0500</pubDate>
<author>sports@roanoke.com (sports)</author>
      </item>
            <item>
         <title>Timesland high school track and field Top 10s</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><strong>About the rankings</strong><br />
Rankings are from major invitational regular-season meets or district, region and state meets only. Meets included so far are Vince Bradford Relays (Lynchburg), Concord University Invitational (Athens, W.Va.), Heritage Invitational (Lynchburg), Taco Bell Classic (Columbia, S.C.), Gus Lacy Classic (Fork Union), Turner Ashby Invitational (Bridgewater), Judy Thomas Invitational (Emory), Knights Classic (Roanoke College), Volunteer Classic (Knoxville, Tenn.), All-American Relays (Radford), Amherst Invitational (Amherst), Cosmopolitan Invitational (Salem), Bearcat Invitational (Bristol), Dogwood Relays (Charlottesville), VMI Invitational (Lexington), Lynchburg Elite (Lynchburg).</p>

<p><strong>BOYS</strong></p>

<p><em>100 meters</em><br />
1. Geary Cunningham, Staunton River (Cosmo), 10.91<br />
2. Brandon Keith, Patrick Henry (Cosmo), 11.08<br />
3. Phillip Scott, Northside (Knights), 11.13<br />
4. Jon Thompson, Radford (Buffalo), 11.19<br />
5. Marcus Bratton, William Fleming (Cosmo), 11.32<br />
6. Scott Campbell, Salem (Knights), 11.43<br />
7. Matthew Lewis, Patrick Henry (VMI), 11.46<br />
8. Justin Seay, Franklin County (Bradford), 11.53<br />
9. Cody Jones, Staunton River (Bradford), 11.57<br />
10. Cody Underwood, Auburn (All-American), 11.64</p>

<p><em>200 meters</em><br />
1. Jon Thompson, Radford (Buffalo), 22.47<br />
2. Geary Cunningham, Staunton River (Cosmo), 22.59<br />
3. Brandon Keith, Patrick Henry (Cosmo), 22.73<br />
4. Greg Keys, Blacksburg (Cosmo), 23.07<br />
5. Justin Seay, Franklin County (Cosmo), 23.17<br />
6. Cody Jones, Staunton River (Lynchburg Elite), 23.27<br />
7. Zac Evans, Christiansburg (Cosmo), 23.36<br />
8. Marcus Bratton, William Fleming (Cosmo), 23.41<br />
9. Phillip Scott, Northside (Knights), 23.42<br />
10. Chris Toney, Bassett (Heritage), 23.57</p>

<p><em>400 meters</em><br />
1. Andrew Hall, William Byrd (Cosmo) 50.15<br />
2. Ryne Bollinger, Liberty (Amherst), 50.32<br />
3. Luke Elbino, William Byrd (Cosmo), 51.08<br />
4. Zac Evans, Christiansburg (Knights), 51.48<br />
5. Adam Martin, Chilhowie (Buffalo) 51.81<br />
6. Justin Seay, Franklin County (VMI), 52.00<br />
7. Ryan Webb, Liberty (Knights), 52.69<br />
8. Adam Martin, Chilhowie (Times-News), 53.04<br />
9. Gavin Roe, Marion (Times-News), 53.05<br />
10. Robert Cobbs, Pulaski County (Bearcat), 53.17</p>

<p><em>800 meters</em><br />
1. Peter Dorrell, Blacksburg (Cosmo), 1:54.89<br />
2. Brian Hencke, Blacksburg (Cosmo), 1:55.09<br />
3. Drew Hall, William Byrd (VMI), 1:56.64<br />
4. Thomas McConnel, Roanoke Catholic (Cosmo), 2:00.25<br />
5. Ryan Capps, Cave Spring (Cosmo), 2:01.25<br />
6. Tim Smith, Cave Spring (Amherst), 2:01.46<br />
7. Luke Elbino, William Byrd (VMI), 2:01.73<br />
8. Justin Resendes, Jefferson Forest (Lynchburg Elite), 2:01.83<br />
9. Bryan Lewis, Hidden Valley (Cosmo), 2:01.85<br />
10. Nathan Brame, Radford (Buffalo), 2:02.16</p>

<p><em>1,600 meters</em><br />
1. Peter Dorrell, Blacksburg (VMI), 4:11.62<br />
2. Tim Smith, Cave Spring (VMI), 4:17.68<br />
3. Bryan Lewis, Hidden Valley (VMI), 4:30.60<br />
4. George Carter, Blacksburg (VMI) 4:30.72<br />
5. Nathan Brame, Radford (Buffalo), 4:31.70<br />
6. Jon Clark, William Fleming (Cosmo), 4:33.43<br />
7. Byron Hart, William Byrd (Amherst), 4:33.74<br />
8. Charles Mogen, Radford (Buffalo) 4:34.73<br />
9. Matt Howard, Blacksburg (Volunteer), 4:35.68<br />
10. Michael Davis, Grayson County (Buffalo) 4:36.13</p>

<p><em>3,200 meters</em><br />
1. Peter Dorrell, Blacksburg (Volunteer), 9:05.08<br />
2. Matthew Howard, Blacksburg (Volunteer), 9:40.09<br />
3. George Carter, Blacksburg (Volunteer), 9:42.59<br />
4. Tim Smith, Cave Spring (Knights), 9:46.04<br />
5. Barrett LeHardy, Hidden Valley (VMI), 9:54.97<br />
6. Byron Hart, William Byrd (Amherst), 10:00.03<br />
7. Bryan Lewis, Hidden Valley (Knights), 10:17.44<br />
8. Michael Davis, Grayson County (All-American), 10:18.92<br />
9. Thomas McConnel, Roanoke Catholic (VMI), 10:19.13<br />
10. Caleb Kingery, William Byrd (Amherst), 10:21.08</p>

<p><em>110 hurdles</em><br />
1. Robert Sterrett, Blacksburg (VMI), 14.95<br />
2. Kendal Booker, Northside (Cosmo), 15.09<br />
3. James Bell, Staunton River (Cosmo), 15.29<br />
4. Alex Fisher, William Byrd (Cosmo), 15.41<br />
5. Marvin Nall, Franklin County (VMI), 15.46<br />
6. Ethan Mills, George Wythe (Judy Thomas), 15.48<br />
7. Chris Dobbins, Christiansburg (Cosmo), 15.84<br />
8. Tyler Wood, Auburn (Buffalo), 16.06<br />
9. Teddy Ivanco, Cave Spring (Cosmo), 16.07<br />
10. Travis Hudson, Christiansburg (Cosmo), 16.12</p>

<p><em>300 hurdles</em><br />
1. Antonio Medley, Salem (Cosmo), 39.34<br />
2. James Bell, Staunton River (Cosmo), 40.31<br />
3. Robert Sterrett, Blacksburg (Cosmo) 41.01<br />
4. Joe Villanueva, Salem (Amherst), 41.30<br />
5. Marco Trent, William Fleming (Cosmo), 41.73<br />
6. Austin Bess, Alleghany (Concord), 41.74<br />
7. Teddy Ivanco, Cave Spring (Cosmo), 42.11<br />
8. Tyler Wood, Auburn (Buffalo), 42.19<br />
9. Marvin Nall, Franklin County (Knights), 42.34<br />
10. Marcus Hairston, Bassett (Heritage), 42.83</p>

<p><em>400 relay</em><br />
1. Bassett (Scales, Toney, Norman, Hairston) (Heritage), 44.22<br />
2. Northside (Scott, Phelps, Booker, Martin) (Amherst), 44.75<br />
3. Blacksburg (Cosmo), 44.82<br />
4. Staunton River (Bradford), 44.98<br />
5. Patrick Henry (Amherst), 45.35<br />
6. Franklin County (Bradford), 45.47<br />
7. Salem (Amherst), 45.59<br />
8. Christiansburg (Heritage), 45.62<br />
9. Chilhowie (Buffalo) 45.78<br />
10. Marion (Judy Thomas), 45.82</p>

<p><em>1,600 relay</em><br />
1. William Byrd (VMI), 3:27.46<br />
2. Blacksburg (Bradford), 3:33.28<br />
3. Staunton River (Lynchburg Elite) 3:38.47<br />
4. Cave Spring (Amherst), 3:40.91<br />
5. Northside (Amherst), 3:40.96<br />
6. Bassett (Heritage), 3:42.46<br />
7. Auburn (Buffalo) 3:42.48<br />
8. James River (Buffalo), 3:42.91<br />
9. William Fleming (VMI) 3:42.95<br />
10. Christiansburg (Heritage, 3:43.28</p>

<p><em>3,200 relay</em><br />
1. Blacksburg (Hull, Hencke, Milauskas, Dorrell) (Bradford), 8:02.28<br />
2. William Byrd (Cosmo), 8:08.96<br />
3. Jefferson Forest (Lynchburg Elite), 8:29.81<br />
4. Christiansburg (Knights), 8:36.46<br />
5. Cave Spring (Knights), 8:47.99<br />
6. William Fleming (Amherst), 8:50.92<br />
7. Roanoke Catholic (All-American), 8:51.93<br />
8. Franklin County (Bradford), 8:54.33<br />
9. Patrick Henry (Knights), 8:56.81<br />
10. Salem (Knights), 9:03.99</p>

<p><em>Shot put</em><br />
1. Emanuel Alfred, Covington (VMI), 54-3 ½<br />
2. Sawyer Russell, James River (VMI), 53-2<br />
3. Phillip Mesadieu, Patrick Henry (Cosmo), 52-6<br />
4. Patrick Pollifrone, Salem (Cosmo), 50-9 ½<br />
5. Tyler Hatcher, Liberty (Bradford), 49-0<br />
6. Andy Broughman, James River (VMI), 48-5 ¼<br />
7. Jonathan Taylor, Christiansburg (Cosmo), 48-5<br />
8. Marcus Burwell, Franklin County (Cosmo), 48-4<br />
9. Andy Broughman, James River (Bradford), 46-5 ½<br />
10. Brandyn Turley, Salem (Cosmo), 46-2</p>

<p><em>Discus</em><br />
1. Sawyer Russell, James River (All-American), 168-8<br />
2. Emanuel Alfred, Covington (All-American), 164-11<br />
3. Kent Moles, Floyd County (All-American), 159-8<br />
4. Will Sawyers, George Wythe (All-American), 157-0<br />
5. Marcus Burwell, Franklin County (Cosmo), 144-11<br />
6. Phillip Mesadieu, Patrick Henry (Knights), 143-11<br />
7. Dionte Hall, William Fleming (Fork Union), 141-4<br />
8. David McCauley, Salem (Amherst), 138-9<br />
9. Patrick Pollifrone, Salem (Cosmo), 138-7<br />
10. Shane Duncan, Auburn (All-American), 135-10</p>

<p><em>Long jump</em><br />
1. Tyler Wood, Auburn (Buffalo) 21-10<br />
2. DaVon Ross, James River (VMI), 21-9<br />
3. Justin Seay, Franklin County (Cosmo), 20-11<br />
4. Allen Dickerson, Radford (Buffalo) 20-10 ½<br />
5. Scott Campbell, Salem (Knights), 20-10<br />
....Luke Elbino, William Byrd (Cosmo), 20-10<br />
7. Patrick Bennett, James River (Buffalo) 20-9 ½<br />
8. Curtis Williams, Chilhowie (Judy Thomas), 20-6 ½<br />
9. Devon Helton, Covington (Buffalo) 20-1<br />
10. Patrick Asconi, Christiansburg (Heritage), 20-0 ½</p>

<p><em>Triple jump</em><br />
1. DaVon Ross, James River (VMI), 44-5 ¼<br />
2. Demetrious Brown, Pulaski County (Knights), 44-2 ¼<br />
3. Luke Elbino, William Byrd (Knights), 43-8<br />
4. Bobby Taylor, Franklin County (Knights), 42-4<br />
5. Ethan Mills, George Wythe (Times-News), 41-7<br />
6. Scott Campbell, Salem (Amherst), 41-6 ½<br />
7. Tyler Wood, Auburn (Buffalo) 41-3 ½<br />
8. Zac Evans, Christiansburg (Cosmo), 41-3 ¼<br />
9. Patrick Bennett, James River (Bradford), 41-3<br />
10. Kendal Booker, Northside (Knights), 40-11 ¼</p>

<p><em>High jump</em><br />
1. DaVon Ross, James River (All-American), 6-6<br />
2. Rick Alderman, Lord Botetourt (Knights), 6-4<br />
....Philip Morris, Glenvar (Knights), 6-4<br />
....Tennis Simon, George Wythe (Buffalo) 6-4<br />
5. Curtis Williams, Chilhowie (Buffalo) 6-2<br />
....Travis Hudson, Christiansburg (Cosmo), 6-2<br />
....James Bell, Staunton River (Cosmo), 6-2<br />
....Matt Burnette, Cave Spring (VMI), 6-2<br />
9. Jeff Early, Rockbridge County (Knights), 6-0<br />
....Andrew Hamm, Fort Chiswell (Concord), 6-0<br />
....Chris Dobbins, Christiansburg (Knights), 6-0<br />
....Patrick Bennett, James River (Buffalo) 6-0<br />
....Nick English, Blacksburg (VMI), 6-0</p>

<p><em>Pole vault</em><br />
1. James Bell, Staunton River (Lynchburg Elite), 14-6<br />
2. Josh Drablos, Jefferson Forest (VMI), 13-6<br />
3. Cy Smith, Patrick Henry (Bradford), 11-6<br />
4. Sam Wright, Franklin County (Bradford), 10-6<br />
....Ethan Wilmer, Jefferson Forest (Turner Ashby), 10-6<br />
6. Trass Barley, Franklin County (Knights), 10-0<br />
7. Zac Osborne, Cave Spring (VMI), 9-6<br />
8. Teddy Ivanco, Cave Spring (Cosmo), 9-0<br />
9. Dillon Smither, Staunton River (Cosmo), 8-0<br />
....Zac Osborne, Cave Spring (Cosmo), 8-0</p>

<p><strong>GIRLS</strong> </p>

<p><em>100 meters</em><br />
1. Kenara Hurt, Liberty (Knights), 12.79<br />
....Courtney Brown, Blacksburg (Volunteer), 12.79<br />
3. Sasha King, Giles (Buffalo), 12.82<br />
4. Eriaca Coleman, William Fleming (Cosmo), 13.05<br />
....Natalie Woodford, Patrick Henry (Amherst), 13.05<br />
6. Amber Church, Pulaski County (VMI), 13.11<br />
7. Ericka Claytor, Salem (Cosmo), 13.15<br />
8. Charquia Wright, Lord Botetourt (Bradford), 13.22<br />
....La'Nishia Baker, William Fleming (VMI), 13.22<br />
10. LaEcha Thomas, William Fleming (Bradford), 13.24<br />
....Lychelle Lewis, Alleghany (VMI), 13.24</p>

<p><em>200 meters</em><br />
1. Kenara Hurt, Liberty (Amherst), 26.12<br />
2. Natalie Woodford, Patrick Henry (Cosmo), 26.14<br />
3. Sasha King, Giles (Buffalo), 26.69<br />
....Ericka Claytor, Salem (Cosmo), 26.69<br />
5. Courtney Brown, Blacksburg (Volunteer), 26.71<br />
6. Stephanie Smith, Salem (Cosmo), 26.90<br />
7. Lakita Eason, Salem (Cosmo), 26.95<br />
8. Eriaica Coleman, William Fleming (Cosmo), 27.17<br />
9. Pamela Pack, Auburn (Buffalo), 27.21<br />
10. Charquia Wright, Lord Botetourt (VMI), 27.43</p>

<p><em>400 meters</em><br />
1. Natalie Woodford, Patrick Henry (Cosmo), 58.56<br />
2. Alicia Terry, Patrick Henry (VMI), 59.70<br />
3. Alicia Royal, William Byrd (VMI), 1:00.60<br />
4. Jessica Wolter, Northside (Cosmo), 1:00.76<br />
5. Avery Mattingly, Blacksburg (Cosmo), 1:00.91<br />
6. Shawnee Carnett, Marion (Times-News), 1:01.42<br />
7. Reema Azar, Cave Spring (Knights), 1:01.61<br />
8. Stephanie Spickard, Lord Botetourt (VMI), 1:01.81<br />
9. Molly Western, Cave Spring (VMI), 1:02.43<br />
10. Faren Campbell, Franklin County (VMI), 1:03.20</p>

<p><em>800 meters</em><br />
1. Avery Mattingly, Blacksburg (Knights), 2:18.08<br />
2. Annie LeHardy, Hidden Valley (Cosmo) 2:20.11<br />
3. Alisha Royal, William Byrd (Taco Bell), 2:20.12<br />
4. Joanna Stevens, Blacksburg (Volunteer), 2:21.30<br />
5. Tatum Tyler, Cave Spring (Cosmo), 2:22.78<br />
6. Maggie Graham, Marion (Times-News), 2:24.31<br />
7. Kathleen Stevens, Blacksburg (Cosmo), 2:24.38<br />
8. Jenna Sprinkle, James River (Buffalo) 2:27.74<br />
9. Jennifer Huffman, Hidden Valley (VMI), 2:29.78<br />
10. Brennan Long, Roanoke Catholic (Knights), 2:30.71</p>

<p><em>1,600 meters</em><br />
1. Maggie Graham, Marion (Times-News), 5:08.47<br />
2. Annie LeHardy, Hidden Valley (VMI), 5:09.10<br />
3. Megan Marsico, Glenvar (Knights), 5:10.52<br />
4. Trinity Foreman, Blacksburg (VMI), 5:11.36<br />
5. Joanna Stevens, Blacksburg (Knights), 5:12.73<br />
6. Laurel MacMillan, Blacksburg (Bradford), 5:14.20<br />
7. Kathleen Stevens, Blacksburg (VMI), 5:14.48<br />
8. Alisha Royal, William Byrd (Bradford), 5:17.70<br />
9. Sabrina Hall, Pulaski County (VMI), 5:25.01<br />
10. Carter Norbo, Patrick Henry (Cosmo), 5:29.59</p>

<p><em>3,200 meters</em><br />
1. Laurel MacMillan, Blacksburg (Volunteer), 11:09.94<br />
2. Melanie Rice, Marion (Times-News), 11:24.69<br />
3. Megan Marsico, Glenvar (Knights), 11:32.74<br />
4. Trinity Foreman, Blacksburg (Volunteer), 11:36.62<br />
5. Mary Catherine Sowder, Hidden Valley (VMI), 11:44.21<br />
6. Carter Norbo, Patrick Henry (VMI), 11:44.55<br />
7. Sabrina Hall, Pulaski County (All-American), 11:50.57<br />
8. Cheyenne Nicely, Alleghany (VMI), 11:56.32<br />
9. Alicia Royal, William Byrd (VMI), 11:58.97<br />
10. Leah Fitchett, Blacksburg (Volunteer), 12:27.15</p>

<p><em>100 hurdles</em><br />
1. Sarah Witt, Staunton River (Lynchburg Elite), 15.25<br />
2. Amber Church, Pulaski County (Bearcat), 15.51<br />
3. Shaundra Cook, Franklin County (Cosmo), 15.67<br />
4. Brittany Cornett, Lord Botetourt (Cosmo), 16.10<br />
5. Kaylin Foor, Cave Spring (Cosmo), 16.87<br />
6. Megan Tolley, Northside (Knights), 17.09<br />
7. Jasmine Hariston, Franklin County (VMI), 17.21<br />
8. Brittany LePore, Lord Botetourt (Cosmo), 17.50<br />
9. Eden Quesenberry, Salem (Knights), 17.55<br />
10. Emily Cranwell, Blacksburg (Cosmo), 17.87</p>

<p><em>300 hurdles</em><br />
1. Sarah Witt, Staunton River (Cosmo), 45.86<br />
2. Brittany Cornett, Staunton River (Cosmo), 48.16<br />
3. Stephanie Smith, Salem (Amherst), 49.78<br />
4. Amber Church, Pulaski County (Bradford), 49.92<br />
....Shaundra Cook, Franklin County (Cosmo), 49.92<br />
6. Stephanie Spickard, Lord Botetourt (Cosmo), 50.00<br />
7. Jasmine Hariston, Franklin County (Knights), 50.05<br />
8. Emily Cranwell, Blacksburg (Cosmo), 50.16<br />
9. Sarah Dorrell, Blacksburg (Cosmo), 50.49<br />
10. Cierra Johnson, William Fleming (Fork Union), 51.23</p>

<p><em>400 relay</em><br />
1. William Fleming (Curtis, Coleman, Johnson, Thomas) (Fork Union), 50.24   <br />
2. Salem (Amherst), 51.67<br />
3. Franklin County (Cosmo), 51.76<br />
4. Cave Spring (Knights), 52.50   <br />
5. Northside (Knights), 52.53<br />
6. Giles (Buffalo), 52.93<br />
7. Lord Botetourt (Bradford), 54.07<br />
8. Chilhowie (Buffalo) 54.22<br />
9. Blacksburg (Bradford), 54.27<br />
10. Christiansburg (Heritage), 54.74</p>

<p><em>1,600 relay</em><br />
1. Cave Spring (Azar, Western, Remine, Tyler) (VMI), 4:10.28<br />
2. Blacksburg (Knights), 4:11.59<br />
3. Patrick Henry (Bradford), 4:23.53<br />
4. Liberty (Amherst), 4:26.92<br />
5. William Fleming (VMI), 4:23.41<br />
6. Franklin County (Bradford), 4:30.30<br />
7. James River (Buffalo), 4:30.38<br />
8. Salem (Amherst), 4:32.36<br />
9. Marion (Times-News), 4:34.49<br />
10. Giles (All-American), 4:41.69</p>

<p><em>3,200 relay</em><br />
1. Blacksburg (Bradford), 9:38.16<br />
2. Marion (Bearcat), 9:59.26<br />
3. Hidden Valley (Cosmo), 10:04.10<br />
4. Cave Spring (Knights), 10:30.29<br />
5. Jefferson Forest (Amherst), 10:48.27<br />
6. Pulaski County (Bradford), 10:49.56<br />
7. Franklin County (Bradford), 10:50.77<br />
8. Roanoke Catholic (Knights), 11:05.59<br />
9. William Fleming (Cosmo), 11:25.59<br />
10. Lord Botetourt (Bradford), 11:57.08</p>

<p><em>Shot put</em><br />
1. Kayla Lewis, William Fleming (Cosmo), 41-2<br />
2. Desi Simmons, Radford (Buffalo), 38-4<br />
3. Elisa Martinez, Rockbridge County (VMI), 38-0<br />
4. Mattie Jones, Covington (VMI), 35-5 ¼<br />
5. Rachel Travis, Blacksburg (VMI), 35-2<br />
6. Emma Stafford, Christiansburg (Heritage), 34-7 ¾<br />
7. Aimee Veatch, Cave Spring (Cosmo), 33-10<br />
8. Loreal Spinner, Liberty (Lynchburg Elite), 33-6<br />
9. Alisha McCrowey, James River (Buffalo),  33-5 ¼<br />
10. Kierra Washington, Northside (Cosmo), 32-10<br />
....Jalesa Anthony, Franklin County (VMI), 32-10</p>

<p><em>Discus</em><br />
1. Aimee Veatch, Cave Spring (Knights), 128-8<br />
2. Desi Simmons (All-American), 120-7<br />
3. Jelesa Anthony, Franklin County (Knights), 118-10<br />
4. Brandy Preston, Franklin County (VMI), 116-5<br />
5. Kelsey Huff, Jefferson Forest (Amherst), 108-3<br />
6. Mattie Jones, Covington (VMI), 107-3<br />
7. Harmony Tripp, Giles (All-American), 103-11<br />
8. Emma Stafford, Christiansburg (VMI), 102-8<br />
9. Millie Tucker, Staunton River (Amherst), 100-11<br />
10. Loreal Spinner, Liberty (Lynchburg Elite), 100-8</p>

<p><em>Long jump</em><br />
1. Jasmine Hariston, Franklin County (Knights), 17-5  <br />
2. Brittany Bostwick, Christiansburg (VMI), 17-4 ¾<br />
3. Shaundra Cook, Franklin County (Cosmo), 17-2 ¾<br />
4. Jessica Turpin, Fort Chiswell (Judy Thomas), 17-0<br />
5. Amber Church, Pulaski County (Bearcat), 16-11 ¾<br />
6. Kenara Hurt, Liberty (Bradford), 16-2 ½<br />
7. Sarah Witt, Staunton River (Cosmo), 16-2<br />
8. Cierra Johnson, William Fleming (Amherst), 16- ¾<br />
9. Vanessa Burnette, Giles (Buffalo), 16-0<br />
10. Molly Western, Cave Spring (VMI), 15-10</p>

<p><em>Triple jump</em><br />
1. Jasmine Hariston, Franklin County (Cosmo), 37-2<br />
2. Brittany Cornett, Lord Botetourt (Amherst), 36-5 ¾<br />
3. Shaundra Cook, Franklin County (Bradford), 35-9 ½<br />
4. Kenara Hurt, Liberty (Bradford), 34-8<br />
5. Reema Azar, Cave Spring (Amherst), 34-1 ½<br />
6. Brittany Bostwick, Christiansburg (VMI), 34-0<br />
7. Meagan Tolley, Northside (Knights), 33-6<br />
8. Jalesa Anthony, Franklin County (Cosmo), 33-3 ¼<br />
9. Edy Ndem, Cave Spring (Amherst), 33-1 ½<br />
10. Charquia Wright, Lord Botetourt (Knights), 32-11</p>

<p><em>High jump</em><br />
1. Kelsey Shelton, Jefferson Forest, 5-4<br />
2. Casey Carroll, Auburn (Buffalo) 5-2<br />
3. Kaylin Foor, Cave Spring (Amherst), 5-0<br />
....Amber Church, Pulaski County (Bearcat), 5-0<br />
....Jasmine Hariston, Franklin County (VMI), 5-0<br />
6. Kelsey Largen, Cave Spring (Knights), 4-10<br />
....Martha Walters, George Wythe (Buffalo) 4-10<br />
....Rachel Crum, Cave Spring (VMI), 4-10<br />
....Kadredia Johnson, William Fleming (VMI), 4-10<br />
10. Shaundra Cook, Franklin County (Bradford), 4-8<br />
....Molly Western, Cave Spring (Knights), 4-8<br />
....Courtney Brown, Blacksburg (Knights), 4-8<br />
....Brandy Preston, Franklin County (Knights), 4-8<br />
....Stephanie Smith, Salem (Knights), 4-8<br />
....Paige Kauffelt, Giles (Buffalo) 4-8<br />
....Brittany Bostwick, Christiansburg (Cosmo), 4-8</p>

<p><em>Pole vault</em><br />
1. Erin Patterson, Franklin County (Bradford), 11-0<br />
2. Sarah Witt, Staunton River (Cosmo), 8-9<br />
3. Rachel Crum, Cave Spring (VMI), 8-3<br />
4. Kaleigh Wood, Franklin County (Bradford), 8-0<br />
....Salina Khanna, Jefferson Forest (Turner Ashby), 8-0<br />
6. Sarah Shrewsbury, Staunton River (Bradford), 7-6<br />
7. Kelsey Largen, Cave Spring (Cosmo), 7-3<br />
8. Caitlyn Swaffar, Cave Spring (Cosmo), 6-0</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/high_school_track_and_field/timesland_high_school_track_an.html</link>
         <guid>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/high_school_track_and_field/timesland_high_school_track_an.html</guid>
         <category>High school track and field</category>
         <pubDate>Thu, 24 Apr 2008 10:38:00 -0500</pubDate>
<author>sports@roanoke.com (sports)</author>
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            <item>
         <title>Blue Jays won&apos;t be hurt by loss</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>Kudos to the Toronto Blue Jays for taking a strong stand — and a big financial hit — on Frank Thomas. The club released its slumping slugger Sunday, one day after Thomas sulked for being benched. The Big Hurt refused to shake hands with teammates after Saturday’s 3-2 victory over the Tigers, and that should tell you all you need to know about his priorities. Perhaps if he had more than four hits in his previous 35 at-bats and a batting average higher than .167, Thomas would have actually had a case. He’ll still get the big bucks left on his two-year, $18 million deal he signed in November 2006. But it’s good to see the money didn’t cramp the Jays’ brains and convince them to give in to a petulant malcontent. — <strong>Aaron McFarling</strong><br />
</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/quick_thought/blue_jays_wont_be_hurt_by_loss.html</link>
         <guid>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/quick_thought/blue_jays_wont_be_hurt_by_loss.html</guid>
         <category>Quick thought</category>
         <pubDate>Thu, 24 Apr 2008 10:27:11 -0500</pubDate>
<author>sports@roanoke.com (sports)</author>
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            <item>
         <title>Stay tuned to NBA playoffs</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>Want to know just how good the NBA playoffs are? If you missed Saturday’s first two games — too bad. You missed plenty. LeBron James took over in the second half to lead Cleveland Cavaliers past Washington Wizards. Then the defending champion San Antonio Spurs came from behind to beat Phoenix in double overtime — all because Tim Duncan hit his first 3-pointer of the season to force that second OT. There were enough big shots in that game, that if it had been an NCAA final it would go down as a classic. But it’s just another NBA playoff game. That’s what makes this league’s playoffs season so much fun to watch. There will be lots of clutch performances between now and June. — <strong>Jeff Gilbert</strong></p>]]></description>
         <link>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/quick_thought/stay_tuned_to_nba_playoffs.html</link>
         <guid>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/quick_thought/stay_tuned_to_nba_playoffs.html</guid>
         <category>Quick thought</category>
         <pubDate>Thu, 24 Apr 2008 10:26:16 -0500</pubDate>
<author>sports@roanoke.com (sports)</author>
      </item>
            <item>
         <title>Western depth doesn&apos;t mean it has the best team</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>I made the statement today that the NBA Western Conference is down this year. After being roundly ridiculed and mocked of by my co-workers, I tried to make more point more clearly. So let me explain. No, let me sum up — that’s all the space I have. The Western team which makes the Finals will not be as formidable as the Spurs were last year. The West is deep, but it’s not as tough at the top. Not saying the Celtics or the Pistons will win the title, but don’t hand the trophy to the Lakers, etc., just yet. — <strong>Jeff Gilbert</strong></p>]]></description>
         <link>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/quick_thought/western_depth_doesnt_mean_it_h.html</link>
         <guid>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/quick_thought/western_depth_doesnt_mean_it_h.html</guid>
         <category>Quick thought</category>
         <pubDate>Thu, 24 Apr 2008 10:25:16 -0500</pubDate>
<author>sports@roanoke.com (sports)</author>
      </item>
            <item>
         <title>Give up trying to find fault with Tiger</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>When the only criticizing to be done is nit-picking, that has become the sign of true greatness in sports. Tiger Woods is the greatest golfer we’ve ever seen, but he’s never come from behind on Sunday to win a major. If that’s all you’ve got, then find something else to say or write about. When Tiger wins, he is dominant. When he loses, the putts don’t fall. It’s as simple as that. The Sunday will come when Tiger fills this so-called gap on his resume. What will be next? He’s never won in anything but red on Sunday? — <strong>Jeff Gilbert</strong></p>]]></description>
         <link>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/quick_thought/give_up_trying_to_find_fault_w.html</link>
         <guid>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/quick_thought/give_up_trying_to_find_fault_w.html</guid>
         <category>Quick thought</category>
         <pubDate>Thu, 24 Apr 2008 10:24:22 -0500</pubDate>
<author>sports@roanoke.com (sports)</author>
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            <item>
         <title>VIRGINIA TECH SPRING GAME COVERAGE</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>Well, Virginia Tech coach Frank Beamer called today's Maroon-White scrimmage one of the best Spring Games he's seen, which probably ranks it about 12,475th on his list of best <em>games</em> he's seen. Sean Glennon's White team defeated the Tyrod Taylor-led Maroon squad 24-3 in a fairly well-played scrimmage that had some encouraging signs on both sides.</p>

<p>For Sunday, Randy King will have a story with heavy emphasis on receiver Brandon Dillard, who definitely made a case that he deserves a scholarship. The former Bassett standout and redshirt junior still does not have one, but he was the top performer on the field today, rushing for 49 yards on one carry and catching a 25-yard touchdown pass. For a team looking for replacements in the receiving corps, Dillard stood out. Zach Luckett caught two passes for 20 yards, while Danny Coale had two receptions for 18 yards.</p>

<p>Glennon also looked good, completing 9 of 15 passes for 119 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions.</p>

<p>“Definitely not a perfect spring, but I like how it ended," Glennon said. "I thought I played pretty well today.”</p>

<p>Taylor's line wasn't as effective, and he was sacked three times while completing 11 of 19 passes for 67 yards and an interception.</p>

<p>Josh Oglesby's 25-yard run in the second half gave him a Maroon team-leading 40 yards. Darren Evans ran nine times for 24 yards and one touchdown for the White team, with Dustin Pickle toting it once for four yards.</p>

<p>The kicking game is another unsettled position. Chris Hazley hit a 42-yard field goal, the longest of the day. Dustin Keys connected from 18 yards out, and Tim Pisano was short on a 52-yard attempt.</p>

<p>Tech's not providing any estimates on the crowd, but the press box consensus is 30,000. Definitely not bad considering the cool, drizzly weather.</p>

<p>That's all for tonight. I'll have a <a href="http://www.roanoke.com/sports/mcfarling/wb/158894">column</a> in Sunday's paper (and online) about what I think Tech should do with the quarterback situation, and Randy will have his <a href="http://www.roanoke.com/sports/vtfootball/wb/158895">story</a> and other <a href="http://www.roanoke.com/sports/vtfootball/wb/158887">notes and quotes</a> from the game. Hope you'll check it out.<br />
---<br />
White wins 24-3. Back with stats and a wrap-up later.<br />
---<br />
Fitting end to a tough day for the Taylor-led Maroon team. A 16-yard completion over the middle to Andre Smith ends in a fumble. Dean Hill recovers for the White team with 33 seconds left.<br />
---<br />
Getting sloppy here at the end, with two bad snaps in a row for the White team. They'll punt it away to give Taylor one more crack at leading a TD drive.<br />
---<br />
Maroon turns it over on downs with less than 3 minutes to go. Cory Holt did make his first catch on the drive, a 17-yarder from Taylor.<br />
---<br />
Unofficially, White has 199 total yards while Maroon has 74.<br />
---<br />
Ike Whitaker makes a diving catch in the end zone on a 12-yard pass from Glennon, and the rout is on for the White team. White leads 24-3 with 5:17 remaining in the fourth quarter after Dustin Keys boots the extra point. Spectacular play by the former quarterback and the present one. Glennon eluded pressure and threw on the run where only Whitaker could get it, and Whitaker went full-out on the dive to snag it in the corner. Highlights on the drive: Evans caught an 11-yard pass out of the backfield for a first down. Tight end Andrew Lanier got loose over the middle to collect a 27-yard pass from Glennon.<br />
---<br />
Maroon puts together a long drive, at least in terms of time, but they have to settle for a 52-yard field goal attempt and Tim Pisano is well short on it. Macho Harris fields the ball in the end zone and returns it to the White 36. On the drive: Danny Coale shows his stuff as a possession receiver, picking up a first down on a 8-yard pass from Taylor on 3rd-and-7. Tailback Josh Oglesby has his first big play of the day, breaking through a hole on the left side for 25 yards on third-and-2. But Macho Harris sacks Taylor from behind for a big loss and Maroon cannot make up that ground.<br />
---<br />
White goes three and out to start the second half. Zach Luckett dropped a sure first down pass from Glennon on third down. That's three drops from the unproven receiving corps thus far.<br />
---- <br />
HALFTIME: Your MVP thus far is the White team's Brandon Dillard, who caught a 25-yard touchdown pass, had a 49-yard end around to set up another score and also had a nice kick return. The redshirt junior (have I mentioned he was a Bassett guy?) is a former walk-on with a diverse set of skills. As for the quarterbacks, Sean Glennon has looked great, while Tyrod Taylor hasn't looked very comfortable. I'll get some stats when they become available.<br />
Spring awards are being announced. They are: <br />
Paul Torgersen Award (top offensive and defensive newcomer) are Blake DeChristopher on offense and Barqell Rivers on defense. <br />
Dr. Richard Bullock Award (most improved) are Ike Whitaker on offense and Demetrius Taylor on defense. <br />
Frank O. Moseley Award (most hustle) are Dustin Pickle on offense and John Graves on defense. <br />
Don Williams Award (team-first mentality) were Devin Perez on offense and Cam Martin on defense. <br />
The Coaches Award (outstanding spring player) are Nick Marshman on offense and Brett Warren on defense. <br />
President's Award (leadership): Orion Martin and Kam Chancellor, both on defense.<br />
George Preas Award (most valuable spring performers): Greg Boone on offense and Jason Worilds on defense.<br />
Biggest Loser Award (most weight loss): Cordarrow Thompson, defense.<br />
---<br />
The ATM (Evans) can't punch it in this time from 1-yard out, and an incompletion on second down forces White to settle for a field goal just before the half. They're up on Maroon 17-3 at the half.<br />
---<br />
Taylor is intercepted by Kam Chancellor and an underthown pass that the QB threw on the run across his body. Chancellor returns it from about midfield all the way to the Maroon 1. Hasn't been a great day for former QBs now playing receiver. A wide-open Cory Holt dropped a pass on that last drive.<br />
---<br />
Brandon Dillard again. The former Bassett Bengal catches a perfect 25-yard pass in the end zone from Glennon, and the White team leads 14-3 with :57 remaining in the first half. A nice connection from Glennon to Boone -- who was in his more familiar tight end position -- picked up 20 yards. Luckett also caught a 16-yard pass on the drive.<br />
---<br />
Chris Hazley boots a 42-yard field goal with plenty to spare, and the Maroon team is on the board. They now trail White 7-3 with 1:39 remaining in the first half. Hazley's boot was a good sign for the Hokies, who have struggled some in the kicking game this fall while trying to find a replacement for the departed Jud Dunlevy.<br />
---<br />
A 14-yard touchdown pass from Taylor to tight end David Stanton is called back by a holding call. Either way, very nice catch by the redshirt sophomore Stanton, who was face-guarded well in the end zone by Davon Morgan. <br />
---<br />
Here comes Maroon. Redshirt sophomore Prince Parker blocks a punt to set up the Maroon team first-and-10 on the White 15. A couple of guys playing relatively new positions got a shot on that last drive. Tight end Greg Boone lined up as a back and took a handoff for minus-2 yards. Then former QB Ike Whitaker, now a top contender to start at receiver this fall, dropped a pass over the middle from Glennon.<br />
---<br />
Another 3-and-out for the Maroon team. Taylor's been moving around back there in the pocket, but he's not finding a lot of room against this defense. The rain looks like it's coming down pretty good now.<br />
---<br />
Darren Evans -- aka the <a href="http://www.roanoke.com/sports/vtfootball/wb/158486"> Automatic Touchdown Machine</a> -- punches in the game's first score from 1 yard out. Dustin Keys boots the extra point and the White team leads 7-0 with 7:21 remaining in the first quarter. That 64-yard drive came exclusively on the ground.<br />
---<br />
The first quarter ends with the game scoreless, but the White team is threatening. They've got it first-and-goal from the 3 after a 10-yard run by Evans and a nice 49-yard end around by wide receiver Brandon Dillard, a former Bassett high school standout.<br />
---<br />
Linebacker Cam Martin is shaken up on a 2-yard run by Darren Evans. He's helped off the field.<br />
---<br />
The Taylor-led Maroon team picks up the initial first down of the game, when the QB hit <a href="http://www.roanoke.com/sports/vtfootball/wb/158779">Danny Coale</a> for a 10-yard pass. But a fourth-down pass later falls incomplete, and the White team's got it back.<br />
---<br />
Both QBs are off to a shaky start. On his first play, Sean Glennon connects with tailback Darren Evans, who is stuck hard by linebacker Purnell Sturdivant for a loss of 3. A short pass to Zach Luckett and an incompletion down the middle followed, and the white team is forced to punt.<br />
---<br />
Tyrod Taylor leads a 3-and-out series for the Maroon to start things off. A false start by tight end Andre Smith, followed by two incompletions and a Demetrius Taylor sack will give Sean Glennon and the white team possession.</p>

<p>What this game needs is stakes -- or even steaks. My college baseball team would end each fall practice season with a seven-game intrasquad series, with the losing team buying the winning team a steak dinner. Always upped the intensity a tad, more out of pride than anything. Come to think of it, that's probably some sort of NCAA violation.<br />
---<br />
About to kick off. Might not be a record crowd, but it's a good one. The east side of the stands is about half full, while the west side is about 3/4 full. There are also several hundred in the end zone seating area.</p>

<p>Fans are pulling out their ponchos as a light rain begins to fall. Chilly down here today.<br />
----<br />
Aaron McFarling here from Blacksburg, where we're about an hour away from kickoff for Virginia Tech's annual Maroon-White scrimmage. I'll be posting here with updates throughout the game.</p>

<p>If the parking situation is any indication, we could be looking at a record Spring Game crowd today.</p>

<p>-Aaron McFarling </p>]]></description>
         <link>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/spring_game_updates.html</link>
         <guid>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/spring_game_updates.html</guid>
         <category></category>
         <pubDate>Sat, 19 Apr 2008 12:58:51 -0500</pubDate>
<author>sports@roanoke.com (sports)</author>
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            <item>
         <title>April 16 emotional for softball team, fans</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>Mark Berman here in Blacksburg, where the victims of last April 16 were remembered before the Virginia Tech softball team recorded an emotional doubleheader sweep.</p>

<p>Before their doubleheader against Liberty, the Tech players gathered together on the field and shouted, "All for 32." It was their theme for the day.</p>

<p> Then they went out and beat the Flames 7-2 and 9-1.</p>

<p> "It was amazing," said first baseman Beth Walker, a Galax graduate who homered in Game 2. "You had a lot of thoughts going through your head besides softball. ... We were not just playing for a win. We were definitely playing for 32."</p>

<p>"It was really special to be able to come out and play for a purpose, play for the memory of the ones we lost," center fielder Jenna Rhodes said.</p>

<p> But playing on this day wasn't easy for the Hokies, who scored five runs in the bottom of the sixth to snap a 2-2 tie in Game 1.</p>

<p>"It just hits you at odd times," said pitcher Angela Tincher, who struck out 17 in the first game but also gave up a two-run homer in the sixth inning of that game. "It was a little bit harder than I think I thought it was going to be. Softball is what we're used to doing, but today ... it was really hard to focus.</p>

<p> "I just put a little bit too much pressure on myself. I was trying to be too perfect. I just didn't want to have anything bad happen today. For awhile there, I was just trying to push too hard [with] a little bit of the emotions. .... We knew how important today was."</p>

<p>Tincher won the first game, becoming the winningest pitcher in ACC history with her 110th career victory. The old mark of 109 was held by ex-Georgia Tech ace Jessica Sallinger.</p>

<p> "It is a nice day to have something good happen like that," said Tincher, a James River graduate who didn't pitch Game 2.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/softball/tincher_breaks_mark_on_emotion.html</link>
         <guid>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/softball/tincher_breaks_mark_on_emotion.html</guid>
         <category>Softball</category>
         <pubDate>Wed, 16 Apr 2008 19:13:45 -0500</pubDate>
<author>sports@roanoke.com (sports)</author>
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            <item>
         <title>Tech to play Wisconsin in ACC-Big Ten Challenge</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>Virginia Tech drew defending Big Ten champ Wisconsin in next season's ACC-Big Ten Challenge.</p>

<p>The Hokies will host the Badgers on Monday, Dec. 1. It will be the teams' first meeting.</p>

<p>Virginia will visit Tubby Smith and Minnesota the following night. It will be the third time the schools have faced each other in the Challenge.</p>

<p>Here's the complete lineup, with times and TV yet to be announced.</p>

<p>Monday, Dec. 1</p>

<p>      Wisconsin at Virginia Tech</p>

<p>Tuesday, Dec. 2</p>

<p>      Duke at Purdue </p>

<p>      Clemson at Illinois</p>

<p>      Ohio State at Miami</p>

<p>      Virginia at Minnesota</p>

<p>      Iowa at Boston College</p>

<p>Wednesday, Dec. 3</p>

<p>      North Carolina vs. Michigan State (Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan)</p>

<p>      Indiana at Wake Forest</p>

<p>      Michigan at Maryland</p>

<p>      Florida State at Northwestern</p>

<p>      Penn State at Georgia Tech</p>

<p> </p>]]></description>
         <link>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/college_basketball/tech_to_play_wisconsin_in_accb.html</link>
         <guid>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/college_basketball/tech_to_play_wisconsin_in_accb.html</guid>
         <category>College basketball</category>
         <pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2008 14:14:13 -0500</pubDate>
<author>sports@roanoke.com (sports)</author>
      </item>
            <item>
         <title>Challenge issued to see Stinespring, Doughty race in the pool</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>If you haven't watched Doug Doughty and Randy King's lively discussions on the <a href="http://blogs.roanoke.com/sportstimescast/2008/04/blame_it_on_memphis_folks.html">Sports TimesCast</a>, you should. Now we've got a challenge brewing that Randy (the Virginia Tech football writer) has called for: Doug in the pool in a 50-meter freestyle race against Virginia Tech offensive coordinator Bryan Stinespring, who once filled in for Randy as a guest host on the show. There's a poll on the site now asking who you think will win. You have to vote to see how it's going. I voted for Coach Stinespring on Friday afternoon and he had a 7-1 lead at the time. So go vote, and I'll make sure this challenge race happens. -- <strong>Jeff Gilbert</strong></p>]]></description>
         <link>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/quick_thought/challenge_issued_to_see_stines.html</link>
         <guid>http://blogs.roanoke.com/pressbox/quick_thought/challenge_issued_to_see_stines.html</guid>
         <category>Quick thought</category>
         <pubDate>Fri, 11 Apr 2008 15:40:26 -0500</pubDate>
<author>sports@roanoke.com (sports)</author>
      </item>
      
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