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  • Seven players crowned hall of famers

    Seven players crowned hall of famers

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    CANTON, Ohio — Seven retired players were inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame Saturday afternoon. Randy Gradishar, Devin Hester, Julius Peppers, Andre Johnson, Steve McMichael, Dwight Freeney and Patrick Willis are the legends who get to experience the honor. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Seven retired players were inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday

    • Many of them thanking their friends, family, former coaches and teammates 

    • The seven inductees now have a permanent place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame where their legacy will live on 

    Many of them thanked their family and friends and all those who helped them along their journey to the Hall of Fame. Andre Johnson gave a lot of credit to his teammates as the reason why he’s able to put on the famous gold jacket.

    “What we miss about the game is not playing, it’s the locker room. You don’t understand, the bus rides, the plane rides, just going out to eat, things of that nature. People don’t understand that. That you spend more time with your teammates more than you do your family,” Johnson said.

    Julius Peppers shared in the sentiment by expressing his thankfulness for the people who played alongside him.

    “You guys are the reason that I worked so hard and a big part of the reason that I’m standing up here today. You motivated me, you inspired me and we held each other accountable,” Peppers said.

    Randy Gradishar thanked his wife, his church, and former coaches. He also took the time to thank those who helped put the entire Hall of Fame week together. 

    “I want to thank you, the prep team, for your tireless work, which you gave me and everyone a fantastic week this week,” Gradishar said.

    Football legends, fans, family and friends came together in the birthplace of the NFL to celebrate the new hall of famers. 

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    Katie Priefer

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  • New facility in Land O’ Lakes helps athletes stay sharp

    New facility in Land O’ Lakes helps athletes stay sharp

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    LAND O’ LAKES, Fla. — Located inside an old car garage is the brand-new NSi Field House, created by owner Tony Calimano.

    The state-of-the-art facility in Pasco County is helping athletes stay sharp year-round.

    What You Need To Know

    • A new, indoor facility is helping athletes of all ages stay sharp year-round

    • The NSi Field House, an indoor training facility for baseball, softball and more, is the first of its kind in the Wesley Chapel/Land O’ Lakes area

    • Located inside an old car garage, the field house was created by local businessman Tony Calimano who says he saw a need for the facility in the area


    “We’ve got athletes from all different sports coming in here and training,” said Calimano. “It’s indoor training. Affordable, accessible- you bring the other two ‘A’s’ being accountable and right attitude- and we’re going to grow.”

    Recently opened, the field house is a place for athletes of all ages to perfect their craft. It’s the first of its kind, Calimano says, in the Wesley Chapel/Land O’ Lakes area. It’s a business venture he wanted to take after noticing a growing need.

    “That’s one thing that we’re noticing is that these fields are being occupied, so they need a place to come and train,” said Calimano. “I’m being sought out now by people saying, ‘Hey- there’s a place locally that we can come and train.’ It’s year-round, accessible 24/7 pretty much.”

    And the reception has already been welcoming.

    “The biggest thing is just getting kids involved and getting them trained,” said Calimano.

    Youth baseball coach Cody Johnson puts a few of his athletes through practice at the facility. A routine, he says, that’s already starting to pay off.

    “A lot of the parents have said that they get home and the kids are doing box jumps on the coffee table or the couch,” said Johnson. “Even though they’re here for an hour or hour and a half, they’re still not getting enough. They’re going home and getting more work in, so they’re learning a lot.”

    While there is a focus on baseball and softball, all sports are welcome to train. There’s just one thing, Calimano says, that athletes need to bring with them.

    “Whatever sport that you’re playing in- whether you’re studying or looking at film- it’s about being accountable,” said Calimano. “I was a good athlete coming up, but I was one of those guys that sometimes looked at pointing fingers if I had something not go right for me. This is about making sure that you are putting the effort in and making sure at the end of the day you’re being accountable for your results.”

    Calimano says his hope is to expand the field house in the future, opening another location in the Tampa Bay area. You can learn more about the NSi Field House when you head to their website.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Steve ‘Mongo’ McMichael enters the Pro Football HOF in ceremony at his home

    Steve ‘Mongo’ McMichael enters the Pro Football HOF in ceremony at his home

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    Steve McMichael couldn’t make it to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, so the ceremony came to him.

    Battling ALS and bedridden in the advanced stages of the neurological disease, the 66-year-old two-time All-Pro defensive tackle was the second player enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame among seven members of the Class of 2024 on Saturday.

    What You Need To Know

    • Steve McMichael couldn’t make it to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, so the ceremony came to him

    • Battling ALS and bedridden in the advanced stages of the neurological disease, the 66-year-old two-time All-Pro defensive tackle was the second player enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame among seven members of the Class of 2024 on Saturday
    • McMichael was surrounded by several of his Chicago Bears teammates and his wife, Misty, at his home in Homer Glen, Illinois
    • Dwight Freeney, Randy Gradishar, Devin Hester, Andre Johnson, Julius Peppers and Patrick Willis also were going into the Hall

    Surrounded by several of his Chicago Bears teammates and his wife, Misty, at his home in Homer Glen, Illinois, McMichael wore his gold jacket, and his bronze bust was unveiled live in a touching tribute.

    “You are on a team that you can never be cut from and never be released from. When you die, you’ll always be on this team. Welcome home, Steve. You’re in football heaven forever,” Hall of Famer Richard Dent said, patting McMichael on the head.

    Misty McMichael wiped tears as she turned her husband’s head toward the bronze bust.

    “That’s you, baby, forever,” she said.

    Jim McMahon, quarterback of the 1985 Bears Super Bowl championship team, watched the scene unfold on a video screen from the in-person event at Tom Benson Stadium in Canton, Ohio. Many Bears supporters shed tears watching McMichael.

    Nicknamed “Mongo” and known for his brash and boisterous personality, McMichael was the most feared player on one of the greatest defenses in NFL history. He became the fourth defensive player from the 1985 team to enter the Hall, joining Dent, Mike Singletary and Dan Hampton.

    Former NFL player Dwight Freeney, second from right, and his presenter Jim Irsay, lower left, unveil Freeney’s bust during an induction ceremony at the Pro Football Hall of Fame, in Canton, Ohio, Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024. (AP Photo/David Dermer)

    McMichael’s sister, Kathy, read a speech that she began working on with her brother before he lost his ability to move and speak.

    “I want to thank the Chicago Bears and the fans, the best city to play football in,” Kathy McMichael said. “I played 15 years in the NFL and loved every minute of every down. I played with the greatest players and the greatest defense to this day.”

    Jarret Payton, son of Bears Hall of Fame running back Walter Payton, presented McMichael, who called Payton a “pseudo-son” in the speech read by his sister.

    “The only thing bigger than his personality is his heart,” Payton said.

    McMichael played in a franchise-record 191 consecutive games from 1981 to 1993 and ranks second to Dent on the Bears’ all-time sacks list with 92 1/2. His final NFL season was with Green Bay in 1994 and McMichael went on to become a media fixture, discussing the Bears on talk radio. He also became a wrestling star, joining Ric Flair’s “Four Horseman” group.

    The ceremony was delayed nearly two hours because of heavy rain and lightning. Similar weather on Thursday night forced the preseason opener between the Chicago Bears and Houston Texans to be stopped with 18 minutes remaining.

    Dwight Freeney, a three-time All-Pro defensive end with the Indianapolis Colts, was the first player enshrined.

    Freeney was playing soccer in high school when the football coach took him off the field. It was a life-changing move.

    “My parents are both Jamaican, so soccer was in my blood,” Freeney said. “If it wasn’t for my high school coach, Jack Cochran, pulling me off that soccer field and convincing me to play this great game, I wouldn’t be on this stage today. Your invaluable lessons in work ethic have stayed with me for my entire life. You also taught me what it takes to become a champion.”

    Randy Gradishar, Devin Hester, Andre Johnson, Julius Peppers and Patrick Willis also were set to be enshrined.

    Colts owner Jim Irsay, who is recovering from a fall, introduced Freeney in a video message. Irsay then was brought on stage in a wheelchair to help unveil Freeney’s bronze bust.

    “He arguably was the best Colt defensive player in our 60-plus year history,” Irsay said.

    Considered too small by some analysts and a reach when the Colts selected him No. 11 overall in the 2002 draft, Freeney quickly proved doubters wrong and thrived in coach Tony Dungy’s Tampa-2 defensive scheme.

    He lasted 11 seasons in Indianapolis and played 16 total, registering 125 1/2 sacks, many using his signature swing move. He forced 47 fumbles, made seven Pro Bowls and earned one Super Bowl ring.

    In his speech, Freeney apologized to his mother for scaring her when he jumped out of a babysitter’s second-story window at age 2.

    “Maybe that daredevil helped me create my spin move,” he joked.

    Dungy, former Colts assistant Bruce Arians and Hall of Fame Colts quarterback Peyton Manning were among those who came out to celebrate Freeney’s induction. Basketball Hall of Famer Michael Jordan also was part of Freeney’s party. Freeney plays golf with Jordan.

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    Associated Press

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  • Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Enshrinement delayed due to heavy rain

    Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Enshrinement delayed due to heavy rain

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    CANTON, Ohio — The Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Enshrinement of the Class of 2024 start time has been delayed due to heavy rain. 

    In a post on social media, the Hall of Fame said they would provide more details as they become available. Their website says it will be inside the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton about an hour after lightning has cleared.

    In a follow-up post Saturday afternoon, the Hall of Fame posted an update that the gates are now open.

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    Cody Thompson

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  • Simone Biles captures her seventh Olympic gold medal

    Simone Biles captures her seventh Olympic gold medal

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    PARIS (AP) — Simone Biles earned her seventh Olympic gold medal by soaring to victory in the women’s vault final at the Paris Games on Saturday.

    What You Need To Know

    • Simone Biles averaged 15.300 for her signature Yurchenko double pike and Cheng vaults to claim a second gold on the event 

    • The 27-year-old is the second woman to win vault twice, joining Vera Casalavska of Czechoslovakia as a two-time gold medalist on the vault

    • She now has 10 Olympic medals in her career, tied for the third most by a female gymnast

    • Biles will have two more chances to boost her medal haul in Paris. She will compete in the balance beam and floor exercise finals on Monday

    The 27-year-old Biles averaged 15.300 for her signature Yurchenko double pike and Cheng vaults to claim a second gold on the event eight years after she triumphed in Rio de Janeiro.

    Rebeca Andrade of Brazil, who finished runner-up to Biles in the all-around final on Thursday, took silver, just ahead of American Jade Carey, who captured the bronze.

    Biles is the second woman to win vault twice, joining Vera Casalavska of Czechoslovakia as a two-time gold medalist on the vault. Casalavska went back to back in 1964 and 1968. Biles now has 10 Olympic medals in her career, tied for the third most by a female gymnast. She also boosted her medal count at major international competitions to 40, the most by any gymnast.

    The crowd inside a packed Bercy Arena roared when Biles was introduced. Wearing a sequined red leotard, she delivered another show-stopping performance in what could be the last vault competition of her life.

    She drilled her Yurchenko double pike, exploding off the block and then flipping backward twice with her hands clasped behind her knees. She landed with a big bounce — a nod to the energy she generates — with her right foot on the out-of-bounds line.

    The judges dinged her a tenth of a point for that. It hardly mattered. Her score of 15.700 meant she merely needed to avoid disaster on her second vault to win. Instead, she almost stuck her Cheng, which requires a roundoff onto the springboard, then a half twist onto the block followed by 1 1/2 twists while doing a forward somersault.

    The ensuing 14.900 meant the rest of the eight-woman field was going for second.

    Andrade, the vault champion in Tokyo, put together two excellent vaults to claim silver and her third medal of the Games after a silver in the all-around and a bronze in the team final. Andrade’s average of 14.966 was well clear of everyone else.

    Carey, who slipped during the women’s vault final in Tokyo and finished eighth, earned her third Olympic medal to go with the floor exercise gold she won in Tokyo and the team gold she captured with Biles on Tuesday.

    Biles will have two more chances to boost her medal haul in Paris. She will compete in the balance beam and floor exercise finals on Monday.

    Yulo wins for the Philippines

    Carlos Yulo won the second Olympic gold medal ever for the Philippines, edging defending champion Artem Dolgopyat of Israel in the men’s floor exercise finals.

    The 24-year-old Yulo scored 15.000, just ahead of Dolgopyat, the defending champion at 14.966. Jake Jarman of Britain claimed the bronze with a 14.933.

    Yulo stuck his triple-twisting dismount during his final tumbling pass. He stuck his arms out and roared inside a packed Bercy Arena before walking off the podium.

    Yulo joins weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz as Olympic gold medalists from the Philippines. Diaz earned gold in the women’s 55-kilogram division in Tokyo three years ago.

    The men’s pommel horse final is also later Saturday. American Stephen Nedoroscik and Rhys McClenaghan of Ireland tied for the top score in qualifying.

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    Associated Press

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  • Simone Biles captures her seventh Olympic gold medal

    Simone Biles captures her seventh Olympic gold medal

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    PARIS (AP) — Simone Biles earned her seventh Olympic gold medal by soaring to victory in the women’s vault final at the Paris Games on Saturday.

    What You Need To Know

    • Simone Biles averaged 15.300 for her signature Yurchenko double pike and Cheng vaults to claim a second gold on the event 

    • The 27-year-old is the second woman to win vault twice, joining Vera Casalavska of Czechoslovakia as a two-time gold medalist on the vault

    • She now has 10 Olympic medals in her career, tied for the third most by a female gymnast

    • Biles will have two more chances to boost her medal haul in Paris. She will compete in the balance beam and floor exercise finals on Monday

    The 27-year-old Biles averaged 15.300 for her signature Yurchenko double pike and Cheng vaults to claim a second gold on the event eight years after she triumphed in Rio de Janeiro.

    Rebeca Andrade of Brazil, who finished runner-up to Biles in the all-around final on Thursday, took silver, just ahead of American Jade Carey, who captured the bronze.

    Biles is the second woman to win vault twice, joining Vera Casalavska of Czechoslovakia as a two-time gold medalist on the vault. Casalavska went back to back in 1964 and 1968. Biles now has 10 Olympic medals in her career, tied for the third most by a female gymnast. She also boosted her medal count at major international competitions to 40, the most by any gymnast.

    The crowd inside a packed Bercy Arena roared when Biles was introduced. Wearing a sequined red leotard, she delivered another show-stopping performance in what could be the last vault competition of her life.

    She drilled her Yurchenko double pike, exploding off the block and then flipping backward twice with her hands clasped behind her knees. She landed with a big bounce — a nod to the energy she generates — with her right foot on the out-of-bounds line.

    The judges dinged her a tenth of a point for that. It hardly mattered. Her score of 15.700 meant she merely needed to avoid disaster on her second vault to win. Instead, she almost stuck her Cheng, which requires a roundoff onto the springboard, then a half twist onto the block followed by 1 1/2 twists while doing a forward somersault.

    The ensuing 14.900 meant the rest of the eight-woman field was going for second.

    Andrade, the vault champion in Tokyo, put together two excellent vaults to claim silver and her third medal of the Games after a silver in the all-around and a bronze in the team final. Andrade’s average of 14.966 was well clear of everyone else.

    Carey, who slipped during the women’s vault final in Tokyo and finished eighth, earned her third Olympic medal to go with the floor exercise gold she won in Tokyo and the team gold she captured with Biles on Tuesday.

    Biles will have two more chances to boost her medal haul in Paris. She will compete in the balance beam and floor exercise finals on Monday.

    Yulo wins for the Philippines

    Carlos Yulo won the second Olympic gold medal ever for the Philippines, edging defending champion Artem Dolgopyat of Israel in the men’s floor exercise finals.

    The 24-year-old Yulo scored 15.000, just ahead of Dolgopyat, the defending champion at 14.966. Jake Jarman of Britain claimed the bronze with a 14.933.

    Yulo stuck his triple-twisting dismount during his final tumbling pass. He stuck his arms out and roared inside a packed Bercy Arena before walking off the podium.

    Yulo joins weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz as Olympic gold medalists from the Philippines. Diaz earned gold in the women’s 55-kilogram division in Tokyo three years ago.

    The men’s pommel horse final is also later Saturday. American Stephen Nedoroscik and Rhys McClenaghan of Ireland tied for the top score in qualifying.

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    Associated Press

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  • MLB-leading Guardians beat Orioles 8-4 for 5th straight win

    MLB-leading Guardians beat Orioles 8-4 for 5th straight win

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    CLEVELAND (AP) — Josh Naylor had three hits and drove in two runs, Austin Hedges had two RBIs and the MLB-leading Cleveland Guardians scored eight consecutive runs in beating the Baltimore Orioles 8-4 on Friday night for their fifth straight win.

    What You Need To Know

    • Josh Naylor had three hits and drove in two runs, Austin Hedges had two RBIs and the MLB-leading Cleveland Guardians scored eight consecutive runs in beating the Baltimore Orioles 8-4

    • The Guardians, winners of five straight, own the best record in baseball at 67-42 and lead the American League Central by six games over Kansas City

    • They have won the first two games of the series by an 18-7 margin over the Orioles, who fell behind the Yankees in the AL East

    • The Guardians also have the best home record in the majors at 35-15

    The Guardians own the best record in baseball at 67-42 and lead the American League Central by six games over the Kansas City Royals. They have won the first two games of the series by an 18-7 margin over the Orioles, who fell behind the Yankees in the AL East.

    “It seemed like we just kept the line moving and kept tacking on (runs),” Cleveland manager Stephen Vogt said. “Guys weren’t trying to do too much and they ran the bases really well. It seems like we’re running with our heads up and doing a great job.”

    No one moreso than Hedges, who scored from second base on José Ramírez’s sacrifice fly in the sixth inning when Steven Kwan was caught in a rundown, but made his way back to first. Brayan Rocchio initially came home on the play that put Cleveland up 8-1.

    “I know I’m not necessarily the guy that’s bringing us wins from baserunning, so anytime I’m doing something like that, it’s pretty exciting for the boys,” said Hedges, a 31-year-old catcher. “When you get back in the dugout, it’s pretty cool.”

    Cade Smith (6-1) retired all five batters he faced for the victory. Carlos Carrasco started, going 4 1/3 innings and allowing one run on one hit for the Guardians, who also have the best home record in the majors at 35-15.

    “The fans’ support, it has been unbelievable, man,” Carrasco said. “Even here and the road, everywhere.”

    Colton Cowser and Jackson Holliday each had RBI singles in a three-run seventh for Baltimore. Cowser extended his hitting streak to 15 games and fellow rookie Holliday had his first two-hit performance.

    Orioles third baseman Coby Mayo, one of the top prospects in baseball, went 0 for 2 with two walks and a run in his debut. The 22-year-old was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk earlier Friday to fill in for the injured Jordan Westburg.

    “Just an unreal experience,” Mayo said. “I’m glad it’s over, getting the first one out of the way, so tomorrow will be a normal day.”

    Dean Kremer (4-8) gave up four runs in five innings. Gregory Soto followed and allowed four runs while recording one out in his first appearance since being acquired from Philadelphia.

    Rocchio drew a bases-loaded walk off Kremer and Kwan did the same against Soto. Lane Thomas walked in the eighth to reach base for the 28th consecutive game, the longest active streak in the majors.

    Mayo batted .301 with 20 homers and 61 RBIs in 77 games with the Tides, leading the International League with a .586 slugging percentage. He was a fourth-round selection in the 2020 draft.

    Trainer’s Room

    Guardians: RHP Tanner Bibee (right shoulder tightness) will not make his scheduled start Saturday and Vogt said he won’t have his status updated until later in the weekend.

    Up Next

    Orioles RHP Zach Eflin (6-7, 4.11 ERA) takes on Guardians LHP Joey Cantillo (0-0, 8.10 ERA) in the third game of the series. Eflin was acquired from Tampa Bay on July 26 and won his initial start with Baltimore over the Blue Jays.

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    Associated Press

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  • Clearwater wants $10M in Pinellas bed tax to upgrade softball field complex

    Clearwater wants $10M in Pinellas bed tax to upgrade softball field complex

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — The city of Clearwater has applied for $10 million in bed tax money from the Pinellas County Tourist Development Council’s capital funding projects program to renovate the Eddie C. Moore Complex.

    What You Need To Know

    • The city of Clearwater has applied for $10 million in bed tax from the Pinellas County Tourist Development Council 

    • City officials say the money would be used to renovate the Eddie C. Moore Complex 

    • The complex wants to add a new two-story building along with softball field amenities

    • Pinellas County commissioners will vote on the request in October


    “This property is almost 40 years old at this point,” said Carla Scrivener, Clearwater’s parks and recreation senior division manager. “It really needs a little bit more upgrading done to it to be competitive in the environment that we’re in.”

    City officials say the renovations would take place on fields 1 through 4. The plan calls for expanding the bleachers to seat up to four times more spectators, upgrading the softball field lighting to LED, renovating the dugout to a concrete building and improving the view for spectators.

    “Take the fencing down and put up netting,” said Scrivener. “That would be more conducive for filming through.”

    Scrivener said the city also wants to replace the existing concession stand with a two-story building that will have a press box on top.

    “The first floor being storage and expanded restroom facilities for the spectators,” she said. “The bigger component of it would be the second floor, which would have a large open space with four dedicated broadcast spaces.”

    The complex attracts up to 35 tournaments every year, with some games being broadcast nationally on ESPN and the MLB Network. The new building will have plug-and-play technology, which will allow scouts and coaches to easily stream video.

    The city must prove a return on investment in order to qualify for the tourist development tax money. Last year, the complex generated $39.7 million in direct spending by non-local attendees, with a total economic impact of $61.6 million in Pinellas County.

    “I think that the renovations will continue to grow the economic impact that we already currently bring into the community,” said Scrivener. “We have the opportunity to do a few more higher-level events.”

    At the July 17 meeting, TDC board member Phil Henderson expressed support for the project.

    “I know the Eddie C. Moore Complex will probably attract more tournaments and so forth, if it’s more up to date and modernized,” he said. “So, that can be an increase over what would have been.”

    The TDC has seven other capital funding project requests and is expected to make a recommendation in September to county commissioners — who will then vote in October.

    Scrivener said softball has a long history in Clearwater, going back to the Bombers in the 1940s — the complex is named after one of those players. Scrivener said the proposed renovations will ensure softball thrives well into the future.

    “What we’re hoping to be able to continue to do to grow the sport of softball, continue to promote women’s athletics and continue to make Clearwater a spotlight community,” she said. “Not just here in Florida but across the country.”

    If the bed tax money is approved, the city would close a section of the Eddie C. Moore complex in 2026 for construction.

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    Josh Rojas

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  • Gordon Hayward retires from the NBA

    Gordon Hayward retires from the NBA

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    Gordon Hayward, who nearly gave Butler a national title over Duke with a half-court shot that just missed on the final play of the 2010 NCAA men’s basketball championship game, retired from the NBA after 14 seasons on Thursday.

    What You Need To Know

    • Gordon Hayward announced his retirement from the NBA on Thursday

    • Hayward averaged 15.2 points in 835 career regular-season games over 14 seasons

    • He nearly gave Butler a national title over Duke with a half-court shot that just missed on the final play of the 2010 NCAA men’s basketball championship game

    • Hayward played for Utah, Boston, Charlotte and Oklahoma City, garnering an All-Star selection in 2017



    Hayward played for Utah, Boston, Charlotte and Oklahoma City, and was an All-Star in 2017. He averaged 15.2 points in 835 career regular-season games, and said he was looking forward to spending more time with his family.

    “Today, I am officially retiring from the game of basketball,” Hayward wrote on social media. “It’s been an incredible ride and I’m so grateful to everyone who helped me achieve more than I ever imagined.”

    Hayward thanked his parents and family, his agent Mark Bartelstein, coaches, teammates, trainers, doctors and friends for supporting him “through countless years and cities, helping me exceed my own expectations.”

    “To all my fans: thank you for supporting me through the ups and downs,” Hayward wrote. “I’ll always cherish the letters of encouragement and the moments we’ve shared around the world. You inspired me to always dream big and improve everyday — and for the young players up next, I challenge you do to the same.”

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    Associated Press

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  • Gators begin Napier’s 3rd fall camp with revamped staff, hope for winning season

    Gators begin Napier’s 3rd fall camp with revamped staff, hope for winning season

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    GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Florida coach Billy Napier took a significant swing at solving his program’s problems this offseason. He revamped his defense, his special teams, his strength and conditioning program and even hired a new team nutritionist.

    What You Need To Know

    • The University of Florida’s football team began fall practices Wednesday

    • Coach Billy Napier has made major changes to his coaching staff and overhauled the program

    • The goal is to finish with a winning record after three losing seasons in a row

    • The Gators open their season against Miami on Aug. 31 in the Swamp

    Although the results of Napier’s make-or-break moves won’t be evident for months, defensive end Justus Boone was ready to show the effects as Florida opened its fall football camp this week.

    “If I take this shirt off, I’m ripped up,” Boone said.

    Boone and the Gators will wait for their season opener against in-state rival Miami on Aug. 31 at the Swamp to unveil whatever progress they’ve made heading into Napier’s third season in Gainesville.

    This is much is clear: Napier didn’t hesitate to retool every floundering aspect of his program following Florida’s third consecutive losing season, the last two under his watch. Napier is 11-14 in two years in Gainesville, a stint that includes consecutive losses to Kentucky and a 1-7 mark against rivals Georgia, Florida State, LSU and Tennessee.

    Napier fired two defensive assistants two days after a season-ending loss to the Seminoles in November and then essentially benched 30-year-old defensive coordinator Austin Armstrong, special teams coordinator Chris Couch and strength coach Mark Hocke in the weeks that followed. All three remain on staff but are no longer in charge of anything.

    Veteran coach Ron Roberts is now running the defense. Former NFL assistant Joe Houston is directing special teams. And Tyler Miles is heading the strength program. Napier also retooled the nutrition side and promoted Russ Callaway to co-offensive coordinator.

    The importance of those moves was evident when Napier brought Roberts, Houston, Miles and Callaway to media day.

    “We’ve got to go execute our formula,” Napier said. “We haven’t quite done that in all parts of our team.”

    Roberts is tasked with fixing a unit that allowed 38.2 points a game in five consecutive losses to end the season. The Gators managed just 22 sacks — their fewest since 2013 — and three interceptions en route to missing a bowl for just the third time since 1990.

    Houston is assigned with eliminating a variety of special-teams gaffes that have plagued the program, culminating with botching a late-game situation against Arkansas in which the field goal unit ran onto the field while the offense was lining up to spike the ball.

    The illegal substitution penalty that followed resulted in a 5-yard loss and seemed to be the difference in Trey Smack missing a 44-yard field goal with seconds left. The game went into overtime, and Florida lost 39-36.

    Houston installed a “launch pad” on the sideline to help moving forward. The mat has a circle for each special-teamer to stand in. It should prevent the Gators from lining up with too many or too few players.

    “It’s essentially a sideline huddle,” Houston said.

    Miles’ impact is already being felt. The Gators have 62 players topping 20 mph in sprints and 45 guys lifting more than 300 pounds in the weight room, dramatic improvements from the previous two years.

    “ ‘Finish’ is a word that’d been used quite a bit this summer,” said Napier, whose team dropped close games to Arkansas, Missouri and FSU in November. “I think how we train just might be the difference.”

    He also said he wants everyone who is part of the organization to feel like they can make an impact and to take accountability for the team’s success.

    “We want every single person who is part of the team and the organization to feel as if their role just might be the difference and for them to come to work every day and take pride in that role,” Napier said Wednesday.

    Although Napier will continue to call plays, he’s giving Callaway more input and responsibility. Callaway’s approach is straightforward and simple: get the ball in the hands of your best players, most notably sophomore receiver Eugene Wilson III.

    Wilson will be as important to Florida’s offense as anyone, including returning quarterback Graham Mertz, senior running back Montrell Johnson and highly touted dual-threat quarterback DJ Lagway.

    All four opened training camp Tuesday by checking into an on-campus dorm, a drastic change from last year’s posh hotel, a day before training camp opened.

    “We’re trying to create an old-school feel to training camp where they appreciate when they move back into that nice apartment here in a couple of weeks,” Napier said.

    Maybe, just maybe, old-school results might follow. The Gators were picked to finish 12th in the 16-team Southeastern Conference, a prediction that quickly found its way back to Florida’s locker room.

    “We’re not worried about trying to prove anybody wrong,” Boone said. “We’re just looking to prove ourselves right. We just want all our work to not go in vain.”

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  • Andre Johnson dedicating Hall of Fame honor to Houston

    Andre Johnson dedicating Hall of Fame honor to Houston

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    HOUSTON (AP) — Andre Johnson knows his induction to the Pro Football Hall of Fame isn’t simply about him.

    What You Need To Know

    • Andre Johnson knows his induction to the Pro Football Hall of Fame isn’t simply about him

    • As the first Houston Texan to become a member of the esteemed group, the receiver is representing so much more

    • Johnson didn’t join the expansion team until its second year, when he was taken with the third overall pick in the 2003 draft

    • But he quickly became a star and the face of the fledging franchise

    As the first Houston Texan to become a member of the esteemed group, the receiver is representing so much more.

    “This was for the whole city of Houston. It’s for the whole organization,” Johnson said. “Just hearing … grown men telling me that they were crying. Having people tell you that God gave us a superhero here in Houston. Those are things that you don’t even realize how people look up to you or (how) you playing that game can affect a city.”

    Johnson didn’t join the expansion team until its second year, when he was taken with the third overall pick in the 2003 draft. But he quickly became the star — and face of the fledging franchise.

    “I can’t think of anyone more deserving to be the Texans’ first Hall of Fame inductee than Andre Johnson,” Texans owner Cal McNair said. “Every time he took the field, we knew he was bringing an incomparable passion and intensity that was a joy to watch. His impact across our community is immeasurable and we are thrilled he has secured his rightful place in NFL history forever.”

    He spent 12 seasons in Houston, where he remains atop the team’s receiving records. He had 1,012 receptions for 13,597 yards and 64 touchdowns and notched 51 100-yard games while with the Texans.

    Johnson finished his career with a season each in Indianapolis and Tennessee to reach 14,185 yards receiving, which is the 11th most yards receiving in NFL history.

    He had seven 1,000-yard receiving seasons and surpassed 1,500 yards three times, including in 2012 when he piled up a career-high 1,598 yards.

    Johnson spent his first three seasons playing for coach Dom Capers, but believes things started to change for him when Gary Kubiak took over in the 2006 season.

    Kubiak, Johnson said, told him after his first season in Houston that things were going to be a bit different moving forward.

    “He was like: ‘Hey, I’m going to have to move you around. You’re going to have to learn everything that goes on in the offense,’” Johnson said. “And I learned every position. If you look at some games, there was some games I even lined up at fullback and he would motion me out of the backfield.”

    Johnson missed seven games with injuries in 2007 before posting some of his best seasons in the next two years. He led the NFL with 1,575 yards receiving in 2008 and topped the league again in 2009 with 1,569 yards.

    “I give coach Kubiak a lot of credit because I guess there was just something that he saw in me as a player, and it helped elevate my game,” Johnson said. “It helped take my game to another level.”

    For that, he selected Kubiak to present him at the ceremony Saturday.

    Johnson led the Texans to their first winning record with his spectacular 2009 season and helped the team to its first playoff berth in 2011 followed by another playoff appearance in 2012.

    In those playoff years, Johnson starred on offense and J.J. Watt became the team’s defensive star. The defensive end, who is almost sure to soon join Johnson in the Hall of Fame, beamed as he congratulated his former teammate on the honor in a video released by the Texans.

    “Congratulations, you have earned it. You deserve it,” Watt said. “You have a gold jacket and you will now and forever be remembered as one of the greatest players to ever play this game and damn is that rightfully so.”

    Johnson, who stills lives in Houston, has been bombarded by fans around town since he was elected to the Hall of Fame. The soft-spoken star normally shies away from attention but has embraced the hubbub during this special time.

    And he expects the love that he’s gotten in Houston to continue during his trip to Ohio for the ceremony.

    “I already told people in Canton that they better get ready, because Houston’s going to show up and show out,” Johnson said. “But just the love I’ve received from this city and the fans, it’s truly been great. It’s been a fun time.”

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  • Ohio bill would require all pro teams to play on natural surfaces

    Ohio bill would require all pro teams to play on natural surfaces

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — When it comes to defending his bill to require all of Ohio’s professional sports stadiums to use natural grass, second-term state Rep. Rodney Creech says he has one motivation: “Player safety, player safety, player safety.”

    What You Need To Know

    • The western Ohio Republican, who majored in agronomy and runs a turfgrass business, announced the measure Tuesday alongside co-sponsoring Rep. Terrence Upchurch, a Cleveland Democrat, and a representative from the NFL Players Association

    • The Bengals are among teams choosing improved soft plastic grass surfaces that look and feel increasingly like the real thing over natural grass

    • The Cleveland Browns and Cleveland Guardians already play on natural turf, as do most of the state’s professional baseball and soccer teams

    The western Ohio Republican, who majored in agronomy and runs a turfgrass business, announced the measure Tuesday alongside co-sponsoring Rep. Terrence Upchurch, a Cleveland Democrat, and a representative from the NFL Players Association.

    Creech pledged before reporters that he would never bid on any of the jobs that his legislation might create, but he said he is wading into the sports world’s grass vs. turf debate exactly because he has expertise in the field. His bill would require that playing surfaces at professional stadiums across the state be comprised of not less than 90% natural gas. The measure contains no penalties or deadlines.

    The legislation, House Bill 605, comes in the wake of the Cincinnati Bengals’ decision this winter to install synthetic turf at Paycor Stadium, at a cost of nearly $1 million, as part of a major upgrade of the stadium. A message was left with the team spokesperson seeking comment.

    The Bengals are among teams choosing improved soft plastic grass surfaces that look and feel increasingly like the real thing over natural grass, which is costly to keep up and maintain.

    The Cleveland Browns and Cleveland Guardians already play on natural turf, as do most of the state’s professional baseball and soccer teams, Upchurch said.

    “Although we go to the games mainly to enjoy them, get out of the house and have some fun with family, the safety of the players should be a top priority,” he said. “It was found that at games, whether it was baseball, football or soccer, that occur on natural grass surfaces, result in fewer non-contact injuries.”

    Creech said he looks forward to the bill having a hearing when lawmakers return to Columbus after the election. He said he would entertain extending the requirement to high school athletics, once he sees how this bill goes.

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  • Simone Biles to compete in all 4 events at Olympic team finals

    Simone Biles to compete in all 4 events at Olympic team finals

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    PARIS (AP) — A calf injury isn’t going to slow down Simone Biles.

    What You Need To Know

    • Simone Biles will still compete in all four events of the Olympic team finals despite a calf injury

    • The American gymnastics star tweaked her left calf while warming up for floor exercise on Sunday

    • Jordan Chiles, Brazil’s Rebeca Andrade and 2020 Olympic champion Sunisa Lee, will also compete in all four events

    • The Americans are heavily favored to win gold after finishing runner-up to Russia in Tokyo three years ago

    The American gymnastics star is in the lineup for all four events during Tuesday night’s Olympic team finals.

    Biles tweaked her left calf while warming up for floor exercise during qualifying on Sunday. She retreated briefly to have the calf taped but then returned and posted the top scores on floor and vault on her way to topping the all-around.

    Last week, U.S. team leaders had considered holding Biles out of the uneven bars in team finals to give her a small break during the Games. Instead, Biles will be part of every event during the finals, when three gymnasts compete and all three scores count. Her husband, Jonathan Owens, is expected to be there.

    The Americans are heavily favored to win gold after finishing runner-up to Russia in Tokyo three years ago.

    Biles will go last for the U.S. on three events — vault, floor exercise and balance beam — and will be up second on uneven bars.

    Jordan Chiles, who finished fourth in the all-around during qualifying behind Biles, Brazil’s Rebeca Andrade and 2020 Olympic champion Sunisa Lee, will also compete on all four events.

    Chiles, part of the silver medal-winning U.S. team three years ago, will lead off on vault, bars and balance beam and go second behind Lee on floor exercise.

    Lee will be the third American on uneven bars, her signature event. She will be second on beam and first on floor exercise.

    The only unexpected tweak to the lineup is on floor, where 2020 Olympic floor exercise champion Jade Carey will sit. Carey, who will vault, struggled on floor during qualifying and said afterward she is dealing with an illness.

    Hezly Rivera, at 16 the youngest member of the five-woman team, is not scheduled to compete. Rivera was part of the lineup on bars and beam during qualifying, though her scores on each event were dropped from the team total.

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  • Djokovic bests Nadal at Olympics in likely last head-to-head matchup

    Djokovic bests Nadal at Olympics in likely last head-to-head matchup

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    Novak Djokovic dominated rival Rafael Nadal at the start, then held off a comeback attempt to win 6-1, 6-4 at the Paris Olympics in the second round Monday, the 60th — and likely last — head-to-head matchup between the two tennis greats.

    What You Need To Know

    • Novak Djokovic defeated rival Rafael Nadal at the Paris Olympics

    • It was the 60th — and likely last — head-to-head matchup between the two tennis greats

    • Djokovic owns 24 Grand Slam titles, and Nadal 22, the two highest men’s totals in the century-plus history of the sport, both have been ranked No. 1, and no pair of men has played each other more often in the professional era



    Djokovic claimed 10 of the initial 11 games, with Nadal nowhere near the skilled and ever-hustling version of himself that won a record 14 French Open trophies on the same red clay at Roland Garros that is hosting Summer Games matches. Instead, Nadal was diminished, showing every bit of his 38 years, and looking like someone who might be ready to head into retirement after playing only sparingly the past two seasons because of a series of injuries, including hip surgery.

    Then, suddenly, the indefatigable Nadal got going, making a push to turn this contest competitive, which surely no one — least of all Djokovic — found too surprising. Nadal captured four consecutive games in the second set, including a forehand winner to break to make it 4-all. He raised his left fist, drawing roars from a packed Court Philippe Chatrier crowd that repeatedly tried to encourage him with chants of “Ra-fa! Ra-fa!”

    And that’s when Djokovic, a 37-year-old from Serbia, regained control. He broke right back, pointing to his left ear while walking to the sideline as if to taunt Nadal’s supporters. Djokovic then served out the victory, before meeting Nadal at the net for a hug.

    Djokovic owns 24 Grand Slam titles, and Nadal 22, the two highest men’s totals in the century-plus history of the sport, both have been ranked No. 1, and no pair of men has played each other more often in the professional era. They are two-thirds of the so-called Big Three of men’s tennis, along with Roger Federer, who retired with 20 Slam titles. That trio enjoyed unprecedented success and prompted endless debates about which was the “GOAT” — “Greatest of All Time.”

    But Djokovic and Nadal are accustomed to meeting — and fans are accustomed to watching them — in the latter stages of events, including nine major finals. Not merely the second round. It happened that early this time because while Djokovic is the top seed at the Summer Games, Nadal’s ranking is outside the top 150 on account of a lack of matches.

    Part of Nadal’s troubles Monday were caused by not being in tip-top shape. His right thigh has been taped up during these Olympics, where he is also competing in doubles for Spain with Carlos Alcaraz.

    And part of the problem, to be sure, was that Djokovic was, well, the best version of himself other than during that brief stretch in the second set, sliding along the baseline to get to everything, striking shots exactly where he wanted them, occasionally using drop shots to set up winners and force Nadal to run a lot. Djokovic wore a gray sleeve on his right knee, just as he did while making it to the final at Wimbledon three weeks ago. He tore his meniscus during the French Open in early June and had surgery in Paris.

    None of that mattered on this warm afternoon under a cloudless sky, with the temperature in the 80s Fahrenheit. Folks in the stands waved fans in an attempt to stay cool; both players wore cold white towels around their necks during changeovers.

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  • Simone Biles shakes off leg injury to dominate at Olympic gymnastics qualifying

    Simone Biles shakes off leg injury to dominate at Olympic gymnastics qualifying

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    Simone Biles didn’t let some leg discomfort slow her down.

    The American gymnastics superstar posted an all-around total of 59.566 during Olympic qualifying on Sunday inside a packed and star-studded Bercy Arena despite complaining of a left calf injury that had her limping.

    What You Need To Know

    • Simone Biles didn’t let some leg discomfort slow her down
    • The American gymnastics superstar posted an all-around total of 59.566 during Olympic qualifying inside a packed and star-studded Bercy Arena despite complaining of a left leg injury that had her limping
    • Biles appeared to tweak the leg while warming up on floor exercise during the second rotation
    • She had the ankle taped and then returned to put on the kind of show-stopping performance that has long been her signature

    U.S. gymnastics coach Cecile Landi said the issue popped up a couple of weeks ago and described it as minor. Landi said there was no discussion of pulling Biles’ from the event.

    “I can’t express it,” she said. “I’m really proud of her and what she’s been through and what she’s showing the world what she’s capable of doing.”

    After dazzling on the balance beam, Biles appeared to tweak the leg while warming up on floor exercise during the second rotation. She exited the floor with Team USA doctor Marcia Faustin — a scene that played out three years ago in Tokyo when Biles removed herself from the team final to protect her safety.

    This wasn’t deja vu, however.

    The 27-year-old returned to the floor a few minutes later with her left leg taped and was heard on camera saying she felt something in her calf.

    She put on a show-stopping performance anyway.

    Biles posted the highest score on floor and vault through two subdivisions, a position she’ll likely find herself in at the end of the day as she tries to add to her career total of seven Olympic medals.

    The only adjustment she made was deciding to skip attempting a unique skill on uneven bars she submitted to the International Gymnastics Federation on Friday. Instead, she did her usual set to score a 14.333. She tried to keep from putting too much weight on her leg following her dismount.

    Her day’s work done, Biles celebrated by waving to the crowd and dancing with friend and longtime teammate Jordan Chiles as the five-woman U.S. team zoomed to the top of the leaderboard as expected.

    The Americans scored a 172.296, well clear of the field after two subdivisions as they search for what they’re calling “redemption” after finishing runner-up to Russia three years ago.

    The question now: Will Biles’ leg be an ongoing issue? The team final is Tuesday, and the women’s all-around final is Thursday.

    The stands were buzzing and filled with celebrities. Tom Cruise posed for selfies while waiting for Biles to emerge. Snoop Dogg had front-row seats, and Ariana Grande, Jessica Chastain, John Legend and Anna Wintour were also on hand.

    Biles arrived in Paris as the face of the U.S. Olympic movement and maybe the Olympics themselves. The buzz around her return to the Games has been palpable, with NBC leaning heavily into her star power by splashing Biles’ face on countless promotions in the lead-up to Paris.

    Her gravitational pull is real. Athletes across the Olympic spectrum have said they want to make it a point to catch the most decorated gymnast of all time in what could be the final competition of her unparalleled career. Among them: LeBron James and the U.S. men’s basketball team, which was busy Sunday with Olympic qualifying.

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  • Young athletes in Cleveland to compete at the 2024 AAU Junior Olympics

    Young athletes in Cleveland to compete at the 2024 AAU Junior Olympics

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    CLEVELAND — Six-year-old Naomi Maxwell is one of a dozen young athletes preparing for the Amateur Athletic Union’s Junior Olympics in Greensboro, North Carolina, this year.

    What You Need To Know

    • Twelve young atheltes from a track team in Cleveland will be comepting in the 2024 AAU Junior Olympics in Greensborough, North Carolina

    • These athletes are part of Good2Great, a youth development program in Cleveland that has its own track team of children from ages 5 to 18

    • The Junior Olympics track and field competition will begin July 28 and go throguh Aug. 3 at the Triust Stadium at North Carolina A&T State University


    “We have practice Monday, Wednesday and Friday,” Maxwell said. 

    Naomi and her peers are part of Good2Great, a youth development program based in Cleveland that formed a track team in 2018. 

    Cordale Scott, former Glenville High School and University of Toledo Football Star, said the group has one mission.

    “To use track to tap into the kid’s character or, you know, mentorship, things like that,” Scott said. “So we use sports to tap into the kids’ mindset.”

    Athletes from ages 5 to 18 can join. Nia Sims began track at 12 years old, and now after three years, is competing in the Junior Olympics for the first time.

    “I’m very excited,” Sims said. “I have a lot of support from friends, family, but also kind of nervous because it’s going against kids all over the nation, not just from Ohio.” 

    Sims qualified for the competition last year, but she lacked the financial means to go. This year, her loved ones made sure that didn’t happen.

    “My mom did like a GoFundMe, for, like, the expenses to go. So we raised over $400, I mean, $4000,” Sims said.

    Like Sims, young athlete Alexander Ellison won’t let any obstacle get in his way.

    “Alex had an injury during indoor, and then he was able to come back and really compete at a high level and make it to nationals,” Scott said. “ So very excited for Alex to be able to experience this year.”

    Now less than three months away, these athletes say they’re ready to hit the track and take home the gold.

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    Tanya Velazquez

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  • Ohioans can bet on Olympics for the first time

    Ohioans can bet on Olympics for the first time

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    The Summer Olympics are underway in Paris, and while many will be rooting for Ohioans or other U.S. athletes, it will also be the first time in Ohio that fans at home can bet on the games.

    Spectrum News 1 spoke with Derek Longmeier with Problem Gambling Network of Ohio about this subject.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • More than 30 with N.C. ties are headed to the Paris Olympics

    More than 30 with N.C. ties are headed to the Paris Olympics

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    As the 2024 Olympic Games kick off July 26, more than 30 athletes with ties to North Carolina will be there to compete. 

    Six swimmers from N.C. State University in Raleigh will be there, but not all will be on Team USA. The Wolfpack swimmers will also be representing Poland, Sweden, Denmark and Greece.

    Eleven athletes with ties to Charlotte will be in Paris, including four current players with the Hornets.

    Fayetteville native Naya Tapper will be on the U.S. Rugby Team. Madison Wiltrout, at UNC Chapel Hill, with compete in the most traditional of Olympic sports: the javelin. 

    Jesse Ssengonzi, of Cary, will swim for the Ugandan team. 

    This map shows each Olympic athlete competing in Paris with ties to North Carolina. 



     

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    Charles Duncan

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  • Pinellas commissioners discuss Rays stadium ahead of vote

    Pinellas commissioners discuss Rays stadium ahead of vote

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — Pinellas County commissioners met to discuss the $1.3 billion Tampa Bay Rays stadium in a workshop on Thursday ahead of vote scheduled for July 30. 

    The county was asked to spend $312.5 million from the Tourist Development Tax fund to help pay for the new stadium.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pinellas County Commissioners held workshop Thursday to discuss the $1.3 billion Tampa Bay Rays stadium ahead of vote scheduled for July 30

    • The county was asked to spend $312.5 million from the tourist development tax fund to help pay for the new stadium

    • Commissioners only spent about three hours asking questions and going over plans for the stadium


    Commissioners only spent about three hours asking questions and going over plans for the stadium, which was something that Commission Chair, Kathleen Peters said was surprising. But during that time, some crucial questions came up that still need to be answered before some commissioners said they would feel comfortable voting in favor of the plan.

    “We currently have a stadium, an old stadium, and a parking lot, but this would be a $6.5 billion — probably the largest economic development project ever built in Pinellas County,” said  Pinellas County Administrator Barry Burton, as he opened the discussion at Thursday’s County Commission workshop.

    With nearly $312.5 million potentially coming from Pinellas County, it’s a decision commissioners said the weren’t taking lightly. 

    “If I felt rushed today for this vote on Tuesday, I’m a no,” said Commissioner Dave Eggers.

    Eggers said even after Thursday’s meeting, he still had concerns about the county using its bed-tax money for the stadium, and how the expenditure would impact other projects, like beach renourishment.

    “It is enough for me to truly vote no on it,” he said. “I think there’s a real issue here with opportunity availability for use of the funds we’re putting into the project. I understand the benefits of the project — I’ve heard them, I’ve gone through them, but we have a different responsibility to make sure it’s fair.”

    St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch said he understood commissioners having questions about the project, because it was a lengthy process for city council members to get to the point they were ready to vote. But ultimately, he said he’s not worried.

    “The first time we had a committee of the whole, there were a ton of questions,” Welch said. “We took those questions one by one — you saw a lot of those end up in the ultimate agreements. I foresee the same process happening here.”

    Pinellas County commissioners are set to take the $312.5 million vote on July 30, with four of the seven required to vote in favor of it for the measure to pass.

    Eggers said that while he’s just one vote, he needs more information before he can vote to approve the plan.

    “If I feel like this is being pushed through on Tuesday, I’ll vote no,” he said. “Even if I might be in favor of it, let’s not rush this deal. On the other hand, if we come together on Tuesday and have the questions answered that we have asked, and have opportunity to have further dialog, um, yeah we can probably have a vote on Tuesday.”

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    Fallon Silcox

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  • FC Cincinnati acquires defender Chidozie Awaziem from Boavista FC

    FC Cincinnati acquires defender Chidozie Awaziem from Boavista FC

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    CINCINNATI — FC Cincinnati has acquired defender Chidozie Awaziem in a transfer from the Portuguese Primeira Liga’s Boavista FC through at least 2025.

    What You Need To Know

    • FC Cincinnati has acquired defender Chidozie Awaziem in a transfer from the Portuguese Primeira Liga’s Boavista FC through at least 2025

    • The 27-year-old from Nigeria, according to an FC Cincinnati press release, has appeared professionally in Europe almost 300 times

    • At Boavista, he made 59 appearances across three seasons

    • He has signed a contract with Cincinnati through 2025 but has options for 2026 and 2027

    The 27-year-old from Nigeria, according to an FC Cincinnati press release, has appeared professionally in Europe almost 300 times.

    “We’re delighted to have Chidozie join the club,” said Chris Albright, FC Cincinnati general manager, in the release. “He’s a talented defender with extensive experience at the European and international level. His quality, character and leadership will be a valuable addition to our group, and I’d like to welcome him to Cincinnati.”

    The release continues laying out his accomplishments, including his participation in the 2018 FIFA World Cup and an appearance in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations.

    “It’s been a wonderful time I’ve had with Cincinnati,” Awaziem said in the release. “I see the love the fans and everybody has for soccer. I see all the games that Cincinnati have been playing, and this has motivated me a lot to be part of this team and to feel like what it is to be a player for FC Cincinnati and represent this wonderful and amazing club.”

    At Boavista, he made 59 appearances across three seasons. He has signed a contract with Cincinnati through 2025 but has options for 2026 and 2027.

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    Cody Thompson

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