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Welcome to the February 5, 2010; edition of the MYAS Update
In this Issue
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MYAS Update Info
Our newsletter is designed to provide timely youth sports information to coaches, athletes, parents and administrators. It includes notes from the Executive Director, sport program information, calendar reminders, new service announcements and special events information. Contributions from sponsors assist us in delivering high quality youth sports services at the lowest possible cost and partially fund this newsletter, and certain sponsors will be featured.
MYAS Night at the Water Park of America
TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
MYAS NIGHT AT WATER PARK OF AMERICA
ONLY $5 PER PERSON!
Sunday, April 11, 2010 will be the first ever MYAS Night at the Water Park of America in Bloomington. Admission price is just $5 per person (normally $20.95). This offer is exclusive to MYAS participants and their guests - bring the whole team!
There are a limited number of wristbands available for this event, so stop by the MYAS offices (4111 Central Avenue NE, Suite 208; Columbia Heights, MN 55421) or mail your order ASAP. Please click here for the event flyer and more information.
Dan's Notes - from Executive Director Dan Klinkhammer
TRYOUTS COMING - CAN YOU HANDLE IT?
I always get a kick out of new parents when they start telling me how much athletic talent their 2 year old is displaying in the basement or backyard. I'll never forget my cousin telling me that he thought his kid might be ambidextrous because he was shoveling food into his mouth with both hands. My next door neighbor thought his 3 year old had superior reflexes because she swatted a fly that landed on her forehead. Never mind the fact that the fly was actually stuck to the applesauce that she had previously smeared all over her forehead. And then there was my college buddy who declared his 4 year old to be the next Babe Ruth because he hit an acorn over the neighbor's fence with a rubber bat.
Yes, we parents get pretty excited when we see our kids hit their first ball, make their first catch or throw darn near anything over the back of the couch. Over time, most of us come to the realization that our kids are pretty normal and not exactly the "sports phenom" that we had hoped for. However, there are a few parents out there who just won't ever accept that little Johnny or Jill isn't the second coming of Jim Thorpe or Jackie Joyner-Kersee. (In case you don't recognize those names, Thorpe and Joyner-Kersee are regarded by many as the top male and female athletes of the 20th century.)
Traveling sports seem to bring out the best and the worst in us parents. Some people say that athletic competition builds character, and there are others who say that it exposes character. In my opinion, the overwhelming majority of athletic competition makes us better human beings, but there are a select few who can't handle the lessons taught by losing or failing to gain their objective. Unfortunately, there are some parents who just can't accept the fact that their child simply isn't as good as they had hoped.
Here at the MYAS we refer to the "invisible umbilical cord" that is still attached to every child and parent. The cord may have been cut at birth but the attachment is still there. If I've heard it once I've heard it a million times: "I'll do anything for my kid." Having that parent loyalty is a good thing unless it's taken to the extreme. When parents take their love for their children to the point of "artificially" manufacturing success for their children, they are actually doing a disservice to their children and create an unlevel playing field for the rest of the kids in the program.
What am I talking about? Well, in a few weeks the youth baseball, soccer and softball associations will be conducting tryouts to determine who gets to play on this year's traveling teams and who goes back into the local Rec program. There will be parents running for Board positions and coaching appointments for the betterment of the local association, and there will be some who run for Board or coaching positions so that they might gain an advantage for their son or daughter. There will be parents roaming the sidelines or sitting in the bleachers during those tryouts who are just happy to see their kid trying out for traveling anything
, and there will be parents who won't be happy unless their Johnny or Jill is selected to the "A" team. In their minds, anything less would be perceived as failure. Unfortunately those parents will do just about anything to manufacture that success for their kids, which creates a lot of problems for the local associations, Board members, coaches, volunteers, athletes, parents and event organizers.
There probably isn't anything that I can say to a parent who has already made up their mind that their child is the next Joe Mauer, so perhaps this message should be directed at all the parents who are still on the bubble and can be saved from themselves with a few suggestions. We'll see.
#1: Stop watching your kid and start watching the other players. You will be amazed at how good some of the other kids are on your child's team. It's certainly natural to focus most of your attention on your own child, but you can't make a fair assessment of their ability if you aren't willing to take an unbiased look at the other players' performance.
#2: Be supportive but don't go overboard. If you constantly tell your kid that they are the best, it's going to be a horrific letdown if they don't make the "A" team when then final cuts are announced. Players and parents both need to be prepared for the best and worst possible results. No matter what happens, your child needs to be in a mental state that allows them to feel fortunate if they make the grade or determined to do better next time if they don't. There is a very fine line between pride and despair. Too much pride turns into arrogance and too much despair leads to defeatism.
#3: Do not allow yourself or your child to blame someone else for their success or failure. In some situations, it is possible that your son or daughter wasn't fairly evaluated but for the most part, kids usually end up where they should be in the pecking order. The kids who were unfairly selected for the travel team will eventually be exposed and, in my opinion, there's nothing worse than playing at a level where you can't compete.
#4: Ask the appropriate questions and be prepared for the answers. If your child doesn't make the travel team, I suggest that you talk to the evaluators and ask them what your child needs to work on. That is a much better approach than grabbing them by the throat and screaming, "Why the #%&*# didn't you pick my kid?!"
#5: Don't take anything for granted. Just like they say about the stock market, "Past returns are no indication of future results." Just because your kid made the travel team last year, there are no guarantees that they will again this year. Kids mature on different timetables. Your son or daughter could be a talented beginner or a late bloomer. It's okay to have a Plan A but it's also possible that Plan B or C may have to be executed.
This is not one of those articles where I say, "Do as I say, not as I did." When my two sons were ages 11 and 14, we sent them both to the travel tryouts for baseball. The eldest son had played on the 13U team the year before and had done quite well. We assumed he'd make the 14U team without any problem. We sent the 11 year old to the 12U tryouts (there wasn't any 11U traveling baseball at the time), just so he would get the experience of going through a tryout. I truthfully did not want him to make the team. In my opinion, he was not ready. Well, the worst case scenario actually happened. The 11 year old made the 12U traveling "A" team and the 14 year old didn't make the cut. He was devastated and we parents were puzzled and shocked.
When something like that happens, as a parent you want to rip someone's heart out. "How dare you disappoint my kid like that? Are you stupid? How could you pick so-and-so over my kid? What is wrong with you people?" I don't think there is a pain stronger than seeing the tears and disappointment in your kid's eyes. Well, I'm proud to say that I didn't have to rip anybody's heart out. All I did was ask my 14 year old son why he thought he didn't make the cut. With red eyes and a quivering voice, he told me that he had a terrible performance at the tryout. In his own words he told me that he was really nervous and did not perform to his ability and completely understood why he wasn't selected for the travel team.
Folks, I've had some proud moments in my life, but none prouder than that one. Remember, what doesn't kill us makes us stronger! How will you handle success or disappointment?
Borton's Bench Notes
On January 24, we had the privilege of hosting MYAS Day at one of our games. Thank you all for coming and creating a great atmosphere in Williams Arena. After the game, as I headed into the Williams Arena Club Room I was welcomed by 300 players, parents and organizers from the MYAS! It was a beautiful sight and one that put a smile on my face.
Our players mingled, signed autographs and spent some time with many young girls. As I signed autographs I heard many say, "Coach, I am going to play for you and the Gophers when I grow up." That is my dream also...for all the hopes, dreams and goals of all of our youth to continue to drive them to be their best! I do hope that I have the opportunity to coach some of the youth that were at that game and reception afterwards.
Continue to work hard and get better! Most importantly, have fun and the passion for the game you love.
Sports Medicine Tip
How to Manage an Ankle Sprain
By Laura Henn, ATC, PTA, CSCS
A sprained ankle is the most common injury in sports requiring quick stops, sudden changes in direction and jumping. It can also happen when you awkwardly step on an uneven surface or step down at an angle.
How It Happens
Ankle sprains occur when the foot twists, rolls or turns beyond its normal motions, causing the ligaments to stretch and tear. When excessive force is applied to the ankle's soft tissue structures, you may even hear a "pop." That's when pain and swelling set in.
The amount of force from a turned ankle determines the grade of the sprain. A mild sprain is a Grade 1. A moderate sprain with partial ligament tearing is a Grade 2. A severe sprain is a Grade 3 with significant instability or looseness.
Early Treatment
Remember R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression and elevation):
- Rest your ankle by not walking on it.
- Ice should be applied immediately. It's crucial to control swelling. Ice should be used for 20-30 minutes, three or four times daily. If you don't have ice, frozen vegetables or snow also work well. If using a chemical ice pack, apply a cloth between the skin and pack to avoid freezer burn to the skin. Avoid any kind of heat or hot tubs since this will increase swelling.
- Compression dressings, stockings or ace-wraps support the injured ankle and further control swelling. This should be worn continually except when applying ice.
- Elevate the ankle above the level of the heart as much as possible for 24 hours after the injury.
Tylenol or other pain relievers may be used for pain. Controlling swelling in the early stages is key to quick recovery. Use crutches if walking with a notable limp. Usually swelling and pain last for a few days. If the ankle is significantly tender in one spot, excessively swollen or unusually painful, see your doctor for further evaluation and possible x-rays to rule out a broken bone. The doctor may suggest a removable cast boot or air splint to immobilize the joint for proper healing.
Continued Management
Wearing a lace-up ankle brace will help support the ankle while walking during the day and will also offer necessary stability for return to sport. A recovering ankle should be taped or braced for 4-8 weeks after injury while the ligament heals to prevent recurrent sprains.
Ankle braces are available at Fairview Home Medical Equipment. For more information call 651-632-9800.
To prevent further injury and for peak performance, the injured ankle must regain normal strength and balance.
For more information about physical therapy and athletic training services, call the Institute for Athletic Medicine (IAM) at 612-672-7100 or the 24-hour Injury Hotline at 952-920-8850. Visit us online at athleticmedicine.org.
About the author
Laura Henn, ATC, PTA, CSCS, sees patients at IAM-Roseville and is the athletic trainer for Hill-Murray High School. To schedule an appointment for physical therapy at any of our over 30 Twin Cities locations, call 612-672-7100.
Visit Minneapolis North Seeks Sales Director of Sports & Meetings
Visit Minneapolis North, a not-for-profit destination marketing organization representing Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park and Maple Grove, Minnesota, is seeking an experienced sales professional for the position of Sales Director: Sports & Meetings.
Primary responsibilities include identifying market opportunities in the area of sports business, associations, education, military & reunion markets, plus maintaining and gaining important relationships with customers, clients and the industry, developing effective sales strategies, defining tactical approaches for attracting all forms of group and individual business travel to the service area.
The ideal candidate must have a minimum of two years previous experience in convention and visitors bureau or hotel/convention industry sales and marketing, must excel in communications and organizational skills, and must be willing to travel occasionally for sales related activities. A four-year degree in a related field is also desired.
A competitive salary range and comprehensive benefit package is commensurate with experience. A complete job description is available upon request.
Please submit a cover letter, resume and salary requirements to the attention of the Executive Director at info@visitminneapolisnorth.com on or before Friday, February 19, 2010.
Then And Now - by Larry Gallagher
Minnesota Wrestling - From Canvas to Foam Mats (Part 1)
When many people think of wrestling, they think of professional wrestling and the entertainment industry. This month, however, we will be looking only at amateur wrestling and how it has developed in the state of Minnesota.
At one time, the mats were covered with canvas and had a mohair center. Mats were tied together and a mat cover was placed over it. Unlike professional wrestling, amateur wrestling is not done inside a raised ring but it is floor level, and we now use polyethylene foam because it is much safer for the contestants.
Wrestling is one of the world's oldest sports. It is proven to have been not only a sport but also a form of combat that at times was necessary during wars. There are cave drawings in a variety of places that prove it is an ancient sport. It was one of the original sports in the ancient Olympic Games. Some suggest it goes back to Cain and Abel's time, although that would be difficult to prove.
The first modern Olympics took place in 1896 in Athens, Greece (which is home of the ancient Olympics). Greco-Roman wrestling was the style in 1896 and only one weight class was represented - heavyweight. Karl Schumann of Germany was the gold medalist, and no U.S. wrestlers competed. Wrestling was not part of the Paris Olympics in 1900, the only time it was not included. Freestyle wrestling was added at the 1904 Games in St. Louis. There was another Athens Olympics in 1906 and freestyle was not represented, but in the 1908 London Games both freestyle and Greco-Roman were featured again. Both styles have been included in most Games since that time.
Although there has been wrestling prior to the point where I am beginning this exploration of wrestling in Minnesota, I have chosen to begin in the 1930s. Let's explore how the first wrestling state tournament in Minnesota came about.
In 1932, a young man came to the University of Minnesota from Cresco, Iowa, hoping to play baseball and wrestle while he pursued a degree in science. The young man's name was Norman Borlaug. Because he had a late laboratory science class in the spring of 1933 he was unable to play baseball at the U of M, but that did not take away from his love of and participation in wrestling.
Borlaug saw a problem with the wrestling program in that while they had some very good athletes, they did not have a full-time coach. He went about solving this problem by convincing University officials that a full-time coach was needed and by convincing his former coach at Cresco High School, Dave Bartelma, that he should take the college job. (Bartelma, who was also the principal at Cresco, had led his team to two state championships in the past five years.)
Bartelma took over the Gopher program in 1935 and quickly realized that he needed to develop a "feeder" system. He took his team all over the state, conducting wrestling clinics that were both informative and entertaining and convinced many communities that their sons would not be doing professional "rassling" but rather very competitive amateur wrestling if they attended the U of M. They traveled from Goodhue to Grand Rapids and all over the western and southern parts of Minnesota spreading the word about wrestling and its positive values.
"Bart," as he was known, also set out to lobby the Minnesota State High School League to create a state tournament for wrestling. Instead of waiting for the MSHSL to act, he got the U of M to sponsor the first tournament in 1937. Bartelma used his wrestlers as the referees and his physical education classes as the timers, scorekeepers and runners. His athletic director, Frank McCormick, was a very strong backer of the University's wrestling program and saw it as a way to promote the U of M to all the schools.
Bartelma sent invitations to all the wrestling programs in the state and also arranged all the logistics necessary to host the tournament. The teams that accepted that first invitation were Minneapolis Marshall, Minneapolis Washburn, Minneapolis Edison, Minneapolis West, Saint Paul Central, University High, Braham, Milroy, Osakis and Hastings. Each team could bring as many wrestlers as they wanted to fit into nine weight classes. The classes in that first tournament were 95, 105, 115, 125, 135, 145, 155, 165 and Heavyweight or Unlimited. Minneapolis Marshall was the winner with 40 points, while Minneapolis West and Osakis tied for runner-up with 23 points each. Marshall, who had an advantage by bringing 13 wrestlers, was dominant in winning five of the nine individual weight classes.
After this first successful season, the high school coaches liked it so much they convinced the MSHSL to take it over and they have run it ever since. The Minnesota State Wrestling Tournament is now one of the largest in the nation.
Bart moved on to form the Minnesota Athletic Union Wrestling Tournament for the Amateur Athletic Union, which was for athletes between high school graduation and college and which helped to grow wrestling in the state. He left the U of M in the early 1950s to become the Department Chairman in Physical Education at the University of Colorado.
Two former Gophers - Alan Rice and Vern Gagne - started the Minnesota Amateur Wrestling Club around 1964 to develop Greco-Roman wrestlers for competition. The club name later changed to the Gopher Wrestling Club. Many of Bart's wrestlers went into coaching and teaching. Stan Hanson went to Minneapolis Marshall, Joe Pazandak went to Minneapolis West and John Malton went to Minneapolis Edison.
There were others who were part of the first high school tournament who ended up coaching in Minnesota: Mark Woodward at Osakis and Robbinsdale, Sky Wilcox at Mound and Austin and Kermit Anderson at Litchfield and Mounds View.
Bartelma also went to Iowa to find and recruit coaches to come to Minnesota. He brought back Luverne Klar, Keith Young, Fred Stoeker, Gene Lybbert and Dick Black. Garth Lappin came to Anoka and in his first nine years had two titles in addition to placing 3rd, 4th and 5th. Bart also found Rummy Macias in Iowa; Rummy became a legend in southern Minnesota at Mankato State University (now Minnesota State University, Mankato) and is credited with developing more high school coaches than anyone else.
This takes us about halfway through our journey of amateur wrestling in Minnesota. Next month we will look at some of the great programs that have been founded in the state and also how we connect with the current USA Wrestling clubs.
By the way, that Norman Borlaug who got all of this started in Minnesota may be somewhat familiar to you in another venue. He is the scientist that many credit with saving more lives than any other human being in history. He discovered a highly disease-resistant form of wheat and received the Nobel Peace Prize for this discovery. Not bad for a small-town kid from Cresco, Iowa, and a student from the University of Minnesota.
One of the discoveries that many of you already know about any sports person is that most of them are very astute at solving problems. Most coaches look at their teams and see the strengths and weaknesses and then work to solve the problem. Most athletes are the same way. They find a weakness in their opponent and then work on ways to defeat that opponent. Coaches, athletes and officials are problem-solvers and decision-makers. That is one of the great benefits of being involved in athletics.
Sources include but are not limited to "Grappling Glory" by Ross Bernstein; www.themat.com (USA Wrestling); www.gophersports.com archives
Velocity Sports Performance - Champlin
Pre- & Post-Training Nutrition
There are more and more training plans and weight lifting programs out there today than ever before. Young athletes have access to all kinds of new articles, Internet sites, magazines and books suggesting the "best" muscle-building workouts for maximizing athletic potential. The problem here is that the majority of these articles fail to mention one of the most important parts of training: NUTRITION.
Millions of young athletes around the nation are working every day to become bigger, stronger and faster to excel in their sport. Many of these teens dedicate countless hours training in the weight room and on the field, but the majority won't reach their potential because they're missing a huge piece of the puzzle. Proper nutrition and nutrient timing are crucial in developing the athlete as a whole. What you eat and put into your body before and after a training session can have a serious impact on the way you perform that day and even the way you perform within several days. Proper nutrition is a serious part of an athlete's recovery time and their ability to develop and excel from day to day.
Frequently Asked Questions:
WHAT should I be eating before training?
Your pre-competition meal should be high in carbohydrates, low in fat and low in protein. Eating complex carbohydrates such as oatmeal, whole grain bread, fruits, rice, potatoes, pasta, etc. can help your energy levels stay consistent throughout training. Try avoiding simple carbohydrates, as these tend to release energy quicker but trigger the release of insulin that can make you feel tired quicker.
WHEN should I be eating before training/competition?
Eating a meal about 2-4 hours before training is ideal, or even a small snack 1-2 hours before. You want to give your body enough time to digest and absorb the meal so you're not feeling full during your workout.
Post-workout nutrition is just as important as pre-workout nutrition.
How soon should I eat after training?
You should be eating anywhere from 20 minutes to one hour after your training session. This is the time in which your body will utilize nutrients to the max. It is very important to replenish your body's energy storage after a hard workout or muscle tissue will be broken into a usable energy source. Not eating anything will result in muscle loss.
How much protein and/or carbohydrates should I eat?
This can be tricky, but the range should be anywhere between .15 to .25 grams of protein per pound of body weight or .25 to .40 grams of carbohydrates per pound of body weight depending on your goals and your activity/sport. For example, if you weigh 175 pounds, you should eat around 25-40 grams of protein and 40-70 grams of carbohydrates in your post-workout meal.
What foods should I be eating?
Tuna, chicken, turkey, cottage cheese, tofu, yogurt, milk, chocolate milk and eggs are just a few foods that are high in protein and can help muscles recover and grow faster.
All of the carbohydrates listed above in pre-training nutrition are excellent foods to consume both before and after. Immediately following a hard workout you may also consume a small amount of simple carbohydrates, foods higher in sugar that can help replace the glycogen stores (stored carbohydrates in muscles). White rice, bagels, popcorn, muffins and sports drinks like Gatorade can help replace those sugars you lost during training.
Nutrition plays a key role in athletic performance. Failure to provide the right amount of calories, carbohydrates and protein that young athletes need to fuel their bodies will result in poor performance and an increased risk for injury and/or illness. Remember that you spend a significant amount of time training and breaking down the muscle for a good reason. You want it to be better adapted to future demands by growing stronger with proper nutrition. So to fully maximize the time and effort you spend training, practicing and preparing, you need to make sure you're giving your body the raw materials it needs, namely protein and carbohydrates. If you haven't spent the necessary time thinking about pre- and post-training nutrition, you're missing much of the benefit that comes with hard training. Once you start paying attention to this variable in the preparation and recovery equation,
your time in the weight room or on the field or court will be much better invested.
It's time to get trained - get coached - get results! MYAS athletes receive a free trial session, 25% off Nike SPARQ testing and 10% off individual training packages. Don't forget to mention the MYAS when you register! For more information and to set up your FREE trial session, call 763.390.6622 or visit www.velocitysp.com/champlin.
This article was written by Jason Simmons, Sports Performance Coach, USWA, EMT-B (jsimmons@velocitysp.com).
Midwest Regional Swim Meet
The 2010 Midwest Regional Swim Meet will take place on March 27-28 at the University of Minnesota Aquatic Center. Last year 1,384 athletes representing nine states competed and we expect the competition will only get tougher.
Registration for the 2010 meet is now open! We are very excited about the buzz surrounding this meet and fully expect to reach our capacity of 1,200 athletes prior to the entry deadline on February 22, 2010.
All registration information, including the event list, qualifying times and hotel information can be found on the Midwest Regional Swim Meet web page. You may also contact Jessica Christopherson at 763-746-1733 or jessica@myas.org.
Don't miss out on your opportunity to compete against the best in the Midwest!
Gopher State Wrestling
The field for the 2010 MYAS Gopher State Wrestling Championships has been set. Wrestlers in Kindergarten through eighth grade from all over the Midwest will invade Monticello on February 13-14. If you are looking for top notch youth wrestling, Monticello is the place to be! Look for the tournament results in the next issue of the MYAS Update.
The Championship has earned the reputation of being the toughest and best run tournament in Minnesota. In 2009 we had 900 registered wrestlers. The tournament has drawn athletes from Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, North and South Dakota, Nebraska, Missouri, Michigan and California. Wrestlers from all states are eligible to participate in all Gopher State wrestling events.
The MYAS and the MYAS Wrestling Advisory Committee (Jeremy Innes, MYAS; Jeremy Barbe, MYAS; Chris Bahl, Stillwater; Tricia Charbonneau, Prior Lake; Chris Douglas, Byron; Josh Florell, Forest Lake; Kelly Loosbrock, Chaska; Nina McKee, Becker; Ben Moody, Blaine; Brian Schnappauf, Monticello; Chad Shilson, Osseo; Matt Sullivan, Lakeville) are proud to announce the following changes to the tournament for 2010:
- Identify top wrestlers in each weight class and position them so they don't meet until the later rounds
- Bigger brackets; modified some weight classes
- 1.5-minute periods for grades 5 & 6 and 7 & 8
- Offer a girls' division
- Increased effort to recruit wrestlers from other states
- Qualifier for the Ohio Tournament of Champions
The changes listed above are in addition to the current features of the Gopher State Wrestling Championships:
- Wrestlers from 7-8 different states each year
- Ability to view registered wrestlers on website
- High school certified officials
- Full-size mats for grades 7 & 8
- 32-person brackets
- Match-by-match results posted on website the day after the tournament
- Round-by-round results printed on-site during the tournament
- Great facility with ample seating
- Very well-run event; smooth tournament flow
- Tournament starts on time and is completed in a reasonable time
To access more information about the Gopher State Wrestling programs, please click on the appropriate link below. You may also contact Jeremy Innes at 763-746-1720 or jeremy@myas.org.
Gopher State Wrestling Championships
Gopher State K-6 Team Tournament
Youth Day with the Gophers
Gopher State Volleyball
Registration is now open for our 2010 Gopher State Volleyball events! These tournaments feature a competitive format, certified officials and quality awards. With no individual memberships required, Gopher State Vollebyall is also the most economically friendly program around!
Listed below are the Gopher State Volleyball events currently on our calendar:
February 27, 2010 * Block Party Tournament (12-18U) * Apple Valley
March 20, 2010 * Future Stars Tournament (12-14U) * Hutchinson
March 20, 2010 * MN Showcase (15-18U) * Hutchinson
May 8-9, 2010 * USSSA State Tournament (12-18U) * Apple Valley
If you would like more information on these events, please visit the MYAS Volleyball web page or contact Jessica Christopherson at 763-746-1733 or jessica@myas.org.
Football Rules of the Month
In our ongoing education mission, we would like to highlight three basic high school football rules. The answers appear later in the newsletter (see "In this Issue" for the link).
1. While a legal forward pass is in flight: (a) Player B1 interferes with eligible Player A1 and then there is an inadvertent whistle; or (b) a whistle is sounded after which Player B2 contacts Player A2 while the ball is in flight. What is the ruling in each case?
2. It is fourth down and the line to gain is Team B's 45-yard line. Player A1, running near the sideline, is blocked by Player B1 on the 46 and he: (a) travels several feet in the air, landing out of bounds opposite B's 44-1/2 yard line; or (b) lands inbounds on B's 44 and slides out of bounds. What is the ruling in each case?
3. Player K1's field-goal attempt is partially blocked behind the neutral zone, but deflects beyond the neutral zone and is then muffed by Player R1. The muffed ball is recovered: (a) behind; or (b) beyond the neutral zone by Player K2. What is the ruling in each case?
MYAS Day with the Gopher Women's Basketball Team
The 2010 MYAS Day with the Gopher Women's Basketball Team on January 24 was a tremendous success! We had more than 300 people attend the game and socialize with the players and members of the coaching staff at our post-game event in the Williams Arena Club Room. We'd like to thank the Gopher players and head coach Pam Borton for taking the time to come up and visit with us and sign autographs!
The MYAS would like to recognize the STMA 4th grade girls' basketball team, coached by Tony Mosley, and the Maple Grove 4th grade girls' basketball team, coached by Dave Moline. The two teams played a very competitive scrimmage during halftime of the Gophers vs. Michigan State Spartans women's game. We hope you all had fun!
In-House Directors' Basketball Meeting
The MYAS would like to meet with In-House Directors for boys' and girls' basketball programs. We have scheduled a meeting for Wednesday, February 10 beginning at 6:30pm at the Radisson Hotel Bloomington by Mall of America. Please click here for a map and directions.
The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the rules, policies and procedures for the 2010 Rec State Basketball Championships and other MYAS programs for in-house teams. It will also be a great opportunity for in-house directors to meet the MYAS basketball staff, ask questions and voice their concerns. There will be free pizza and beverages provided during the meeting.
Please contact Kevin Wilson at 763-746-1712 or kevin@myas.org by Friday, February 5 to RSVP your attendance.
MYAS Super Saver Basketball Tournaments
There are still Super Saver Tournaments scheduled for this winter. The tournaments are offered on Saturdays and Sundays through early March for boys' and girls' teams in grades 4-12. Super Savers provide teams with three games in just one day! You will save money on gas and admission fees since you only have to travel to the tournament site once. The schedule is very easy and convenient.
Please click here to access the MYAS Winter Basketball web page where you can find more Super Saver information and the tournament registration form.
MYAS Gopher State Winter Basketball Tournaments
Gopher State Winter Basketball Invitationals are two-day events scheduled to bring you more basketball and more games. The goal of these tournaments is to feature bigger brackets and a wider variety of teams.
If you enjoy our MYAS Gopher State Invitational Tournaments in the spring, you will certainly like these winter invitational tournaments! Please click here to access more information on our winter basketball tournaments.
MYAS Gopher State Winter Basketball League
The 2009-10 MYAS Gopher State Winter Basketball League (formerly the BTBL and GMBL) is on the home stretch. We have seen a lot of great basketball already! The league playoffs will be held the weekend of February 20-21.
The Winter League provides opportunities for all levels of play. "A" (advanced), "B" (intermediate), "C" (beginning) and "Rec" (in-house) teams can all receive a quality 12-game schedule.
Additional league information, including schedules and results, is available on the Winter League web page. If you have further questions, please contact Kevin Wilson (boys) at 763-746-1712 or kevin@myas.org or Jessica Christopherson (girls) at 763-746-1733 or jessica@myas.org.
MYAS Grade State Basketball Championships
The MYAS is looking forward to the 2010 Grade State Basketball Championships, and we hope that you will be able to participate in our version of March Madness. The 2010 event will take place on March 6-7 (girls) and March 13-14 (boys).
All of the tournament information is available on the Grade State page of the MYAS website. The girls' entry deadline is Friday, February 5 and the boys' deadline is Friday, February 12. If you have questions about the Grade State Championships, please contact Eric Rathke at 763-746-1730 or eric@myas.org.
We hope to see you this spring for March Madness - Minnesota Style!
Note to Coaches: Once your team is determined, please go to the Coaches Control Center on the MYAS website and enter your online roster. Once your roster is completed you will be able to determine which players will need grade verification. By finishing this step early, you will save yourself a lot of time and unnecessary paperwork.
MYAS Rec State Basketball Championship
Mark your calendars now for the 2010 MYAS Rec State Basketball Championship! The tournament will be held on March 20-21, 2010 at various locations in the metro area. The registration deadline is Friday, February 26.
The Rec State Championship is the premier state tournament for in-house and park & recreation teams. The tournament is held for boys' and girls' teams in grades 4-12 and features Division I (highest), II and III levels of play to accommodate all skill levels.
Don't miss out on the opportunity for your team to play in a big tournament with a championship environment! Registration materials are available on the Rec State Basketball portion of the MYAS website. If you have questions, please contact Kevin Wilson at 763-746-1712 or kevin@myas.org. GO REC STATE!
Gopher State Spring Basketball
As the winter basketball season comes to an end, it's time to begin planning for your team's participation in our Grade State Championships in March and Gopher State Spring Basketball tournaments beginning the last weekend in March. Our 2010 tournament schedule has expanded to include tournaments running through mid-July.
New For 2010:
- We have scheduled four "Elite" level tournaments, co-hosted by some of our spring clubs, to bring in top quality teams to compete in Minnesota. Don't miss your chance to play against some of the Midwest's best teams.
- The Gopher State "Future Stars" celebration weekend is July 30 - August 1, 2010. Throughout the Gopher State spring season, coaches will be asked to nominate players to participate in this "all-star" game. Four teams of 10 boys' and girls' players from each grade level will be selected to participate. The event will be open to all players who participated in one of our 14U/8th Grade, 15U/9th Grade, 16U/10th Grade and 17U/11th Grade divisions during the upcoming spring season.
Tryouts: Teams are already being formed and tryouts are being set. Go to the "Tryout Center" on the MYAS home page to see which clubs have posted their tryouts. If your club/team is holding tryouts for the spring season and your team(s) will be playing with us, please contact the MYAS office and we will advertise your tryouts for free.
Are you new to spring basketball? Come to one of our spring basketball informational meetings to find out about the Gopher State spring basketball season. The first meeting will be held on Sunday, February 28 at the Radisson Hotel Bloomington by Mall of America beginning at 5:00pm. The final two meetings are scheduled for March 3 at the Ramada Minneapolis NW/Grand Rios and March 10 at White Bear Lake High School South Campus. Both March meetings will begin at 6:30pm.
If you want to play great competition and different opponents each weekend, be assured that trainers and tournament directors will be on site to oversee the games, and if you don't want to pay outrageous membership fees, then Gopher State Spring Basketball is the place to play. The first weekend of play is March 27-28, 2010. Quality events are what we strive for - don't be fooled by imitations!
Basketball Rules of the Month
In our ongoing education mission, we would like to highlight three basic high school basketball rules. The answers appear later in the newsletter (see "In this Issue" for the link).
1. Player A1 dribbles and comes to a stop after which he/she throws the ball against: (a) his/her own backboard; (b) the opponent's backboard; or (c) an official and catches the ball after each. What is the ruling in each case?
2. Team B requests a time-out: (a) as the teams position for the jump ball to start the game; (b) just prior to the toss on the jump to start the game; or (c) following the first free throw for a technical foul which occured prior to the start of the game. Should the official grant the request in each case?
3. Regulation play ends with a tie score. Team A has used all of its allotted time-outs. Team A requests a time-out before the overtime period begins. Should the official grant the request?
Gopher State Winter Baseball Camps
There are only a few Winter Camp dates remaining on the schedule for 2010. All camps are very affordable and are taught by some of the best baseball minds in the Midwest. Have your future star ready for tryouts in 2010 - make plans now for them to attend a Gopher State Winter Baseball Camp!
The next available camps are our Valentine's/Presidents' Day Hitting Camp in Rogers with the Minnesota Baseball Academy and the MYAS/Twins Presidents' Day Training Camp at the National Sports Center in Blaine. Registration is also open for the Battery Mates Camp (February 21 at Northwestern College) and the Overall Skills Camp
(February 28 at UW River Falls).
We are entering the busiest part of the Winter Camp season, so they will be filling up fast. Don't delay - sign up today!
Please see the Winter Camp web page for more details and registration forms. If you have questions, contact Jeremy Barbe at 763-746-1731 or jbarbe@myas.org.
Gopher State/MYAS/USSSA Baseball Dates to Remember
The MYAS baseball staff has compiled a listing of all the pertinent dates to remember for the 2010 MYAS / Gopher State / USSSA season. Please click here to access the listing, and feel free to contact the MYAS baseball staff at 763-781-2220 with your questions.
Gopher State Baseball League (GSBL)
The MYAS is looking forward to the start of the 11th season of the Gopher State Baseball League! Look for new communities from central Minnesota and more teams from existing member associations in 2010.
All team entry packets/enrollment forms will be available on the Gopher State Baseball League web page and will be mailed to currently participating Association Presidents / Travel Directors no later than Friday, February 19. If you need to be added to the distribution list or are new to this role on your association baseball board, feel free to email Dawson Blanck to provide him with an updated contact for your association. Click here
for links to league information and continue to visit the GSBL web page as we approach the 2010 season.
New for 2010: 9U Open League & "A" Level Leagues
Team Enrollment Deadlines: 9-15U Teams - March 26, 2010; 16-17/19U Teams - May 17, 2010
League Scheduling Sessions: 9-15U Teams - April 17, 2010; 16-17/19U Teams - May 25, 2010
GSBL Team Classification Hearing
Member associations that enrolled teams in the 2009 GSBL will have the opportunity to petition a team's classification for 2010 at the March 21 Board of Advisors (BOA) Team Classification Hearing. Listed below are two regulations set by the BOA that determine if an association is eligible to petition a team's classification.
- Teams with history in the GSBL (participated in 2009) in the AA level and finished with a winning percentage of .750 and above will need to petition the BOA to remain at the AA level in 2010. The GSBL Board of Advisors reserves the right to review any team's classification prior to the beginning of the next season.
- Teams with history in the GSBL (participated in 2009) in the AAA level and finished with a winning percentage below .250 will have the opportunity to petition the BOA to play down at the AA level in 2010. NOTE: All 15 & Under teams have the opportunity to petition the BOA to play at the AA level if their association places teams in other organizations/leagues at the same age level.
A Past Performance Analysis will be emailed to each association president/travel director by February 26, 2010. This form must be filled out by March 12, 2010 in order to be allowed to petition any team(s) that will be participating in the 2010 GSBL.
If you have any questions about the Team Classification Hearing, please contact Dawson Blanck at 763-746-1719 or dawson@myas.org.
Gopher State Baseball Spring Training Series
NEW FOR 2010! The Gopher State Spring Training Series is a spring league that will be held on April 11, 18 and 25. The league will act as an early season tune-up or spring training for all 10-15 year old AAA and AA traveling teams. It allows teams an opportunity to play live games against other teams that will help prepare them for the start of the regular season.
The league has a six-game guarantee (doubleheaders each Sunday) with berths to the 2010 Gopher State Tournament of Champions awarded based on team records at the end of league play.
More information is available on the Gopher State Spring Training Series web page. If you have questions about this NEW league, please contact Dawson Blanck at 763-746-1719 or dawson@myas.org.
GSTC Qualifiers Now Available
Teams can now go to the baseball tournament listings
on the MYAS website to view all of the 2010 Gopher State Tournament of Champions (GSTC) qualifiers. All tournaments with a "Yes" on the right hand side of the page have been designated as qualifiers. If you are a 10-15U "A" level traveling team, you will notice there are tournaments designated as qualifiers in that division for the first time, as this is the first year we are offering GSTC events for those teams.
GSTC qualifiers provide automatic berths to teams placing first or second in the tournament. All other teams will receive points that will be used to award at-large GSTC berths at the end of the season. If you have questions about a specific tournament, please contact the director listed for that tournament.
Don't hesitate to sign up today for a qualifier and your chance to play in the 6th annual Gopher State Tournament of Champions!
Gopher State Baseball Spring Invitationals
The schedule is out for the MYAS Gopher State Baseball Spring Invitationals. These events are set up as two-day GSTC qualifying tournaments taking place in early to mid-May. All teams are guaranteed three games and the top two placing teams will earn an automatic berth to the Gopher State Tournament of Champions.
The MYAS is offering "AAA" and "AA" level tournaments for 10-15U traveling teams. You can find out more information, including sites and dates, on the Spring Invitational web page.
North Star Baseball League
The MYAS is looking forward to another season of the North Star Baseball League. This unique recreational baseball league will begin its sixth season this May and we are looking for new communities to join our current members. Last season we hosted teams from Elk River, Rogers, Anoka/Ramsey, Andover, Coon Rapids, Blaine/Spring Lake Park, Centennial, Forest Lake, Soderville and Shoreview.
For more information about the North Star League and to learn about how we customize each community's schedule to fit their teams, contact Tony Groff at 763-746-1728 or tony@myas.org.
Minnesota USSSA Baseball
The MYAS is proud to announce the 2010 Minnesota USSSA baseball schedule. We had another fantastic year in 2009 with more than 1,000 registered teams. We look forward to the 2010 USSSA State Tournaments that combine great teams, venues and host organizations to offer an outstanding tournament experience for everyone involved. This is a tremendous event to participate in whether you intend to advance to a USSSA World Series or whether your intent is to earn a berth to the Gopher State Tournament of Champions in July.
Register early to secure your spot in this premier event. Applications are available on the USSSA Baseball State Championship page of the MYAS website.
The updated list of dates and sites for the 2010 USSSA State Championships are now available (with the exception of the site of the 17/19U Open tournament on June 25-27). For updated information on USSSA baseball in Minnesota, continue to check the USSSA Baseball portion of the MYAS website.
MYAS Latest News (as of 2/4/10)
In-House Directors' Basketball Meeting
Basketball Tournament Openings
2010 Gopher State Baseball League
2010 Youth Baseball Tournaments & GSTC Qualifiers
2010 Rec State Basketball Championships
Spring Basketball Tryout Promotion
Are you looking for a basketball team to play on?
Insurance - USSSA Basketball
MYAS Calendar (as of 2/4/10)
Friday, February 5, 2010
MYAS Girls' Grade State Basketball Championship entry deadline (Mar. 6-7 event)
Saturday, February 6, 2010
MYAS Super Saver Basketball Tournament - Coon Rapids
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Gopher State Winter Basketball League play date
Monday, February 8, 2010
MYAS Super Saver Basketball Tournament entry deadline (Feb. 20 & 21 events)
Friday, February 12, 2010
MYAS Boys' Grade State Basketball Championship entry deadline (Mar. 13-14 event)
Friday, February 12, 2010
Gopher State Block Party Volleyball Tournament entry deadline (Feb. 27 event)
Saturday-Sunday, February 13-14, 2010
MYAS Gopher State Wrestling Championships - Monticello
Saturday-Sunday, February 13-14, 2010
Gopher State / North St. Paul Invitational Basketball Tournament
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Presidents'/Valentine's Day Hitting Camp - Rogers
Monday, February 15, 2010
MYAS / Twins Presidents' Day Winter Baseball Camp - Blaine
Monday, February 15, 2010
Gopher State / Colin Powell Center Invitational Basketball Tournament entry deadline (Feb. 27-28 event)
Saturday, February 20, 2010
MYAS Super Saver Basketball Tournament - Champlin Park
Saturday-Sunday, February 20-21, 2010
Gopher State Winter Basketball League Playoffs
Sunday, February 21, 2010
MYAS Super Saver Basketball Tournament - Irondale
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Gopher State Battery Mates Winter Baseball Camp - Roseville
Monday, February 22, 2010
Midwest Regional Swim Meet entry deadline (Mar. 27-28 event)
Monday, February 22, 2010
Gopher State / Park Center Invitational Basketball Tournament entry deadline (Mar. 6-7 event)
Friday, February 26, 2010
MYAS Rec State Basketball Championship entry deadline (Mar. 20-21 event)
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Gopher State Block Party Volleyball Tournament - Apple Valley
Saturday-Sunday, February 27-28, 2010
Gopher State / Colin Powell Center Invitational Basketball Tournament
Sunday, February 28, 2010
MYAS Gopher State Wrestling K-6 Team Tournament - Simley High School
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Gopher State Overall Skills Winter Baseball Camp - River Falls, WI
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
MYAS Basketball Officials' Video Clinic - Columbia Heights
Friday, March 5, 2010
Gopher State Future Stars Volleyball Tournament entry deadline (Mar. 20 event)
Friday, March 5, 2010
Gopher State MN Showcase Volleyball Tournament entry deadline (Mar. 20 event)
Answers to Football Rules of the Month
The answers below are derived from the National Federation of State High School Associations Football Rules Book and/or Football Case Book.
1. In (a), if the captain accepts the penalty for a foul which occurred prior to the inadvertent whistle, the penalty takes precedence. It will be a new series for Team A, 15 yards in advance of the previous spot. In (b), the contact by Player B2 occurred during a dead-ball period and unless it is a personal foul, will be ignored. Because the whistle was inadvertently sounded while a legal forward pass was in flight, the down shall be replayed (Case Book 4.2.3 Situation B page 33).
2. In (a), the official must locate the spot where the ball crossed the sideline and then determine whether the foremost point of the ball was behind or beyond the line to gain when Player A1 crossed the plane or sideline. In (b), it is first down and 10 for Team A from Team B's 44-yard line (Case Book 4.3.3 Situation A page 34).
3. In both (a) and (b), it is first down for Team K. In (a), Player K2 could have advanced after recovering (Case Book 5.1.3 Situation A page 37).
Answers to Basketball Rules of the Month
The answers below are derived from the National Federation of State High School Associations Basketball Rule Book, Basketball Case Book and/or Rules by Topic publication.
1. Legal in (a); a team's own backboard is considered part of the team's "equipment" and may be used. In (b) and (c), Player A1 has violated; throwing the ball against an opponent's backboard or an official constitutes another dribble, provided A1 is first to touch the ball after it strikes the official or the board (Case Book 9.5 Situation page 73; Rule Book 4-4-5 page 25; Rule Book 4-15-2 page 28; Rule Book Fundamentals #19 page 72).
2. The request should be denied in (a) and (b) but granted in (c). The game must be started with the ball becoming live or by a violation or foul prior to this before a time-out request can be honored. In (c), the ball became live when it was at the disposal of the free thrower (Case Book 5.12.4 Situation A page 48).
3. The time-out should not be granted. The additional 60-second time-out provided for each extra period(s) shall not be granted until after the ball has become live to start the extra period(s) (Case Book 5.12.4 Situation B page 48).
If you have questions about these or other basketball playing rules, please contact Buddy Hemric at 763-746-1717 or buddy@myas.org.
Important Association Services That Work!
The Minnesota Youth Athletic Services offers three important services:
1. Association and Player Sports Accident Insurance Coverage
Association liability and player accident insurance are always concerns for youth sports organizations in our increasingly litigious society. Some associations spend a lot of money and others go into denial and “run naked” without even minimal liability coverage for their members. Yet if insurance is not obtained, the personal assets of the individuals running the association may be at risk. Many sports facility managers, especially municipalities and schools, will not permit the use of their property or facilities unless it can be demonstrated that youth sports associations are covered under an insurance policy. Without insurance, the opportunity for young athletes to compete in organized sports programs may be substantially limited.
The MYAS has partnered with J.A. Price Agency, an insurance company which has access to dozens of other insurance companies and can handle any type of business or personal insurance needs that your association/board of directors may require. The insurance provides options for all types of needs within your association/community. This coverage is an advantage no amateur sports organization should be without!
Examples of coverage include but are not limited to:
- General Liability
- Sexual Misconduct
- Participant Accident
- Directors & Officers Liability
- Crime/Embezzlement
- Automobile
- Umbrella
- Workers' Compensation
General insurance questions should be directed to Bob Blomster at 952-253-4311 or bob.blomster@japrice.com.
2. Criminal Background Checks
How do we protect our children? Reports of sexual predators and child abuse involving the clergy, day care workers and youth volunteers are all too familiar. Unfortunately, this includes a disturbing number of youth sport coaches who have a history of incidents of sexual misconduct and/or violence. This is a complex issue and many youth sports organizations are unclear about what to do or how to approach this threat, yet they must take proactive steps to prevent their children from becoming innocent victims. Don’t put your children at risk!
In addition, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce reports that $50 billion is lost annually due to employee theft and fraud. Youth sports associations must protect themselves from this threat as well. Don’t put your association at risk!
Fortunately, youth sports associations now have a simple and inexpensive tool to avoid some of society’s worst fears. The MYAS, with its partner Trusted Employees, has designed a criminal background check system that offers three affordable options to youth sports associations. Trusted Employees, a local Twin Cities company, incorporates a “user-friendly” process combined with flexible information delivery to make this system easy and inexpensive for your organization. For more information, please contact Mike DeWane at 952-393-1929 or mike@myas.org.
3. Coaching Education Program
The MYAS has partnered with the American Sport Education Program (ASEP) to offer youth sport associations and their coaches the Coaching Youth Sport education program designed specifically for youth coaches. It provides coaches with a solid foundation in coaching principles, sport first aid and sport-specific techniques and tactics. These courses are available for baseball, basketball, football, soccer, softball, tennis, volleyball and wrestling and can be delivered in the classroom or online. For more information, please contact Mike DeWane at 952-393-1929 or mike@myas.org.
MYAS Sponsors
MYAS Membership Meetings
MYAS membership meetings are held at our offices (4111 Central Avenue NE; Columbia Heights, MN 55421) on the last Tuesday of each month at 9:00am (unless notified otherwise). All MYAS members are welcome to attend.
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