2Ten Sports Magazine April issue 2023

ByDr.MariannePinkston

Bychrishockman

ByAaronreff

morgansteabing

byjohnnoriega

Where Flavors of the East meets the West

As seen in the NewYork Times story, at Pasha Mediterranean Grill in SanAntonio, we greet you with the aroma of hot fresh naan bread. Enjoy our award winning Mediterranean Seafood, Quail, Lamb, Kabobs, Shawarma, Gyros, Greek & Persian Salads, Saffron Rice, Cranberry Rice and Lentil or Dill Rice with a side of Lentil Soup, Baba Ghannouj or Dolma!

Medical Center:

The Original Pasha Mediterranean Grill 9339 Wurzbach Rd.

S.A. TX 78240

(210) 561-5858

Stone Oak: Pasha at the Vineyard 1207 N. Loop 1604 W. SanAntonio. TX 78258 (210) 764-1104

Northeast: Pasha Selma at Olympia Parkway 15069 I-35 Suite 202, Selma, TX 78154 210) 396-7645

Fast & Fresh Pasha Express West!

PASHAEXPRESS 10650 Culebra #101 SanAntonio, TX 78251 (210) 592-1666

Why We Cannot Lose Weight

Written By Marianne Pinkston, MD Integrative Doctor Weight loss, nutritionand fitness specialist Drpbetterlife.com

Weight loss has been considered a mystery with endless amounts of incorrect information, fad and yo-yo dieting, empty promises of “quick and permanent” weight loss on a single supplement, etc.… gimmicks.To understand how we all arrived at this level, look at the statistics.The rate of obesity inAmerica as of 2020 is 41.9%, and the annual medical costs are $173 billion. (CDC.gov)

How did we arrive at this frightening level of prevalence and cost? Many features over time brought us to this breaking point. In almost all cases, we can point the finger food industry. If you look at a photo of a crowd in the 1970s, it would be rare to see someone over 5-10 lbs overweight. Looking at pictures from the current decade, 30% of the people would be considered overweight and 41% obese, meaning 70% are overweight.

In the 1990’s the beef industry was hit by Oprah and also by the “low fat” diets. We replaced fat with carbohydrates and sodium.The United States was called upon to fill in gaps of food shortages around the world, so scientists genetically modified corn and wheat to grow larger heads of fruit and taller, fuller plants and off-season growth. Because we encountered excessive amounts of corn, the industry began to use high fructose corn syrup instead of sugar which has been shown in studies to be as addictive as heroin or cocaine.The U.S. also allowed “Round Up” pesticide to be widely used on crops of grains and other crops. Fat food, or rather, fast food restaurants, began to appear on every corner, and processed foods high in sugars and chemical preservatives began to fill grocery shelves for the convenience of quick-fix or easy-fix foods. Mcdonald's started the process of “super sizing” portions. I could write forever on how the industry has evolved to allow us all to become addicted and overeat. In contrast, the specific hormones and peptides made in the gut, brain, organs, and fat tissue are no longer effective at controlling hunger but in many cases, increase cravings and inflammation in all the organs that play a role in sugar metabolism, weight and development of heart disease and more. Have you noticed belly fat and increased abdominal girth is in almost everyone?This abdominal fat is called visceral fat and is directly related to insulin resistance or inflammation of the pancreas, liver, muscle, arteries, and more.This visceral fat is metabolically and hormonally active driving the body and brain to gain weight and resist losing with the efforts of weight loss.

This inflammation and insulin resistance is as bad as full-blown diabetes, and the insurance and pharmaceutical industries have given patients little assistance. Insulin resistance in pre-diabetes is as bad as full-blown diabetes.Anyone that has gained more than 30lbs enters a new set point of weight that will forever change their ability to lose weight, making weight loss near impossible.

Enter fad diets such as keto or very low-carb diets continue to increase metabolic inflammation, where patients lose more muscle than fat.The industry has made us addicted to simple sugars while demonizing good carbohydrates. We do need carbohydrates, and there are differences in types of carbohydrates, and good carbs do exist. Other staples to keep in mind, protein is king and fat isn’t all bad.

Many look to medications as a quick fix, for example phentermine. Phentermine acts on the brain where opioid medications act and may lessen hunger but can add to an increase in cravings later, effects last only 6-12 weeks and the weight loss is mostly muscle, and the medication has zero impact on the inflammatory hormonal that are broken and may add to the problem. Phentermine or HCG etc., does not reverse metabolic inflammation pathways that are the underlying cause, actually adding to it, and people can develop dependence.

So is there anything that can help?There are new versions of older medications called peptides; GLPand GIPare the peptides.You know them as Mounjaro (generic tirzepatide) or Ozempic (semiglutide).These injections are significant in their potential ability to reverse, for those that qualify, the metabolic inflammation and hormonal influences that drive cravings, overeating, and obesity. If you do not have diabetes, insurance will not pay for the medications. I prescribe these medications through a compounding pharmacy for less than the pharmaceutical companies.

In my quest for weight loss, I lost 171 lbs, and through my extensive training, I have the knowledge and expertise to assist patients in the “right way” to lose weight.

In the series I am writing for the magazine, I am passionate about turning myth into truth and unrealistic expectations into reality for those desperate to get their health back. We will continue the series next month.

What is the US Open Cup and why does it maer for San Antonio FC?

Founded in 1913 the US Open Cup is the oldest compeon in American Soccer and as a result one of the most storied.

The US Open Cup is, as its name suggests, an open tournament. All club teams in the United States are eligible to enter one team into the competion. This means that the compeon pits teams across the different leagues and divisions in the country.

In 2023 the compeon features 99 teams, with amateur teams entering in the first round before being joined by the professional teams outside of Major League Soccer in the second. MLS teams join in the third round.

The compeon allows for lower division teams to step out on a big stage and upset their higher level opponents. 2022 saw that with USL Championship side Sacramento Republic FC making the final, losing to MLS side Orlando City.

There is an incenve to go as far as you can, the winners get $300,000 and the runners up get $100,000 while the sidethat finishes the highest from its division gets $25,000. While that may not be much money it’s not nothing and can cut some costs even for San Antonio FC.

Beyond the financial incentive the winner of the tournament will get a place in the CONCACAF Champions League, North America’s premier club soccer tournament. The US Open Cup is San Antonio FC’s only way to access that tournament.

Featuring teams from a 34 states, and DC, and ranging from MLS Champions LAFC to local Nashville team Beaman United the compeon has plenty of stories and room for upsets. A number 16 seed beang a number 1 seed? More like a number 99.

Cup compeons aren’t common in most other sports but are very common in soccer. England’s version, the FA Cup may be the most famous inthe world. Every club has a chance to play one of the best club in the country, even the clubs that just kick around in the local park.

San Antonio has been on both ends of upsets in its history in the compeon. In 2012 the San Antonio Scorpions stunnedMLS side Houston Dynamo at Heroes Stadium but went on to lose to USL side Charloe Eagles. One year later the Scorpions didn’t even make the MLS round, stunned by Premier Development League (now USL League 2) side FC Tucson in a shootout.

Perhaps San Antonio’s most famous cup night came last year when the city sought a measure of revenge over Ausn for usurping its place in MLS. It was a dramac match at a raucous Toyota Field with San Antonio FC winning in extra time to knock out their northern rivalsin emoonal scenes. Unfortunately the run ended there with SAFC falling to another Texan MLS side, the Dynamo, in the fourth round.

SAFC will start its US Open Cup run against Club de Lyon who play in NISA, a division below San Antonio. That match will beat Toyota Field on April 4th. The winner will advance to face another regional opponent, most likely one of the Texan MLS sides on April 25th or 26th.

Big expectations as NBAplayoffs tip-off (22-23)

Author:Aaron Reff

End of season summary of NBAConference standings.

The 2023 NBAPlayoffs will be headlined by the Milwaukee Bucks and the Denver Nuggets on April 15, 2023 after the NBAPlay-in tournament concludes.

Eastern Conference

Milwaukee Bucks (58-24): Led by their two-time MVPGiannisAntetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks reclaimed the top seed in the Eastern conference in the 2022-23 season. Last season the Buck’s championship aspirations fell short as they weren’t able to overcome losingAll-Star forward Khris Middleton due to injury in the 2022 playoffs. However, with Middleton back and the addition of some veteran free agents, the Milwaukee Bucks look to enter the 2022-23 playoffs with a full head of steam.

Boston Celtics (57-25): Similar to last season the Boston Celtics find themselves back at the #2 seed of the Eastern conference.After their loss to the Golden State Warriors in the 2022 NBAFinals, the Celtics wasted no time acquiring veteran additions to increase their chances to repeat their run. Boston entered the 202223 season with an obvious chip on their shoulders after experiencing a disappointing end to their year. With Joe Mazzulla stepping in as interim head coach for the 22-23 season, MVPcandidate JaysonTatum and the Boston Celtics appear in position to right their wrongs from last season.

Philadelphia 76ers (54-28): In their first full season together, MVPfrontrunner Joel Embiid and formerAll-Pro James Harden led the Philadelphia 76ers to a top three seed in the Eastern conference.After their second round exit from last year’s playoffs, this season’s priority was to find the former Houston,Texas native more room to operate in the team’s offense as his field goal percentage increased by four percent (44%) compared to last season. Piloted by their two superstars, future Hall of Famer Doc Rivers, and a deep roster of talented role players, the 76ers hope to make another run at the Eastern conference finals having last appeared in 2019.

Cleveland Cavaliers (51-31):The Cleveland Cavaliers made the biggest splash of the offseason when they traded for 26 year oldAll-Star Donovan Mitchell.Amove that propelled the team five ranks up in the standings from last season. Mitchell has been a catalyst all season long for the Cavaliers, even dropping 71 points in one game earlier in the season in a gutsy overtime performance.The Cavs are primed to make an attempt at the Eastern conference finals, and are set to be contenders for years to come as long as their young core remains intact.

NewYork Knicks (47-35):This season for the NewYork Knicks has been a roller coaster of emotions. From backing out of a presumed trade for Donovan Mitchell, to controversially acquiring 26 year old guard Jalen Brunson from the Dallas Mavericks in free agency. Brunson, although heavily scrutinized by Knicks fans initially, has been one of the best offseason additions in 2022-23, leading the team to the playoffs after ranking #11 the season prior The most improved player candidate, along with theirAll-Star forward Julius Randle look to continue shocking the nation with their vastly improved roster for years to come.

Brooklyn Nets (45-37): Despite recent years of championship expectations, the Brooklyn Nets sought out their goal of reaching the Finals with their new prolific big three of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and Ben Simmons. However, constant friction between theAll-Stars and the team’s front office led the franchise to part ways with their most valuable assets in favor of a win by committee approach.After compiling 34 wins together, the Nets tradedAll-Star point guard Kyrie Irving to the Dallas Mavericks and NBAsuperstar Kevin Durant to the Phoenix Suns before the NBA’s trade deadline.Although seemingly hitting self-destruct on this season, Brooklyn still found themselves clinching the #6 seed in the playoffs led by forward Mikal Bridges who was acquired mid-season.

Atlanta Hawks (41-41):TheAtlanta Hawks entered the season with great expectations having traded for 26 year old guard DeJounte Murray after he became anAll-Star with the SanAntonio Spurs.The Hawks traded away forward Danilo Gallinari, three first-round draft picks, and one future pick swap in one of the offseason’s most head scratching moves. However, despite the hype inAtlanta, they were unable to avoid the NBAPlay-in tournament for the second straight season and only improved by one rank in seeding from the 2021-22 season.Although the Hawks have underwhelmed by even their own standards, the amount of talent at their disposal is enough to give any opponent in the Eastern conference a hard time if they can gain momentum as a team.

Miami Heat (44-38):The Miami Heat dropped down from the #1 seed in the Eastern conference all the way to the #8 seed arguably having one of the most disappointing playoff pushes during the 2022-23 campaign. Having retained the majority of their roster from last season the Heat were a team that many didn’t think would be in the NBA’s Play-in tournament, let alone the last seed in their conference. However, Miami was able to muster enough gas to salvage their season and will compete against the #1 seed Milwaukee Bucks this postseason. With Miami’s big three of forward Jimmy Butler, guardTyler Herro, and center Bam Adebayo all playing in at least 78% of the 82 possible games together, it’s easy for one to claim that the team experienced an unexpected hangover from their success a season ago.

Western Conference:

Denver Nuggets (53-29): Complimented by a healthy roster, the Denver Nuggets were able to jump from the #6 seed last season to first in the Western conference giving Denver their best chance to make the NBAFinals since the 2018-19 campaign. Injury plagued is a narrative that has haunted the Nuggets over the last few seasons.That despite the team’s grit and consistency from two-time MVP Nikola Jokic they never have enough firepower when it really matters. However, the Denver Nuggets crumpled and disposed of that critique as they were able to maintain their team’s health throughout the entire 2022-23 seasons. FormerAll-Star guard Jamal Murray, forward Michael Porter Jr. and the addition of former NBAchampion Kentavious Caldwell-Pope are all relatively healthy and geared up for a big playoff push.The Nuggets now look to finally gain that elusive NBAchampionship that their roster has been expected to produce over the past few seasons.

Memphis Grizzlies (51-31):Arguably one of the most electrifying teams to watch in the NBA, the Memphis Grizzlies were able to maintain their dominance in the Western conference.Although the franchise experienced their fair share of controversy from their media driven animated demeanors, that didn’t stop them from once again securing a top two seed in the West.Anchored by their dynamic duo of star guard Ja Morant and center Jaren Jackson Jr., along with their array of young talented guards Desmond Bane, Dillon Brooks, andTyus Jones, the Grizzlies appear primed to put their name back in the Western Conference Finals conversation.After failing to capitalize in the 2021-22 playoff semifinal, the Memphis Grizzlies look to give any team in the West a run for their money, health provided.

Sacramento Kings (48-34): Undoubtedly the NBA’s biggest surprise of the season was the emergence of the Sacramento Kings.After shockingly dealingTyrese Haliburton, their projected point guard of the future in exchange forAll-Star center Domantas Sabonis, many thought the Kings were making a mistake.Trading their future for an experienced player with limited success turned a lot of NBAfans away from the thought of the Kings ever competing amongst the league’s elite powerhouses. However, the combination of guard De’Aaron Fox and Sabonis, along with off season additions such as sharpshooter Kevin Huerter and rookie prospect Keegan Murray has created an undeniable balance of scoring and ball movement on the floor. Maintaining their above 100.00 pace from a season prior, sacrificing their youth for maturity has most definitely worked out for the Kings in the short term. Questions remain though. Is this a new era of Kings basketball or a Cinderella season?As Sacramento prepares for their first postseason in almost two decades.

Phoenix Suns (45-37):The Phoenix Suns have been among the league’s top overall teams since acquiring future Hall of Fame point guard Chris Paul.Although having earned a top two seeding since that trade in 2020, the Suns led byAll-Star guard Devin Booker has been unable to capitalize on their talents and finish once on the biggest stage. In an attempt to remedy that problem, the Suns opted to relinquish their roster depth in what can only be viewed as an all-in approach to this year’s playoffs.The Phoenix Suns put the entire league on notice after finalizing a blockbuster trade at the NBA’s trade deadline for arguably the greatest play-by-play scorer in the NBAtoday, Kevin Durant.Adding the 29.7ppg “Slim Reaper” to a core of high level producers that the Suns possess seemed fictitious considering the stance the NBAtook against the fantasy-like structuring of teams in the past. However, in today’s NBAthe deal was considered free of any foul play and per league standards was allowed to pass through. While chemistry in the playoffs remains to be the only argument one can make about their overall cohesion, the Suns potentially have the greatest odds of making a NBAFinals appearance if that speculation is put to rest in the first round.

LosAngeles Clippers (44-38): Coming into the 2022-23 season the Clippers had what some would consider one of the deepest NBArosters, spearheaded with two-time NBAchampion and Defensive player of the year forward Kawhi Leonard. Banking on their depth, the franchise has notoriously become known for load-managing their roster to ensure their superstars are ready to go all out once the playoffs arrive. In route of that strategy however, the Clippers are now set to enter the 2022-23 postseason without their second leading scorer forward Paul George as he’s deemed out with “no timeable return” from a left knee sprain. Having fallen to the #9 seed after competing in the Western Conference Finals in 2020-21 the Clippers entered this season with an obvious chip on their shoulders.They now look to make the most of the rest of their season led by Kawhi Leonard and the newly acquired future Hall of Fame guard Russell Westbrook.

Golden State Warriors (44-38):The 2021-22 defending NBAchampions once again find themselves outside of the top three in the Western conference standings. However, as history has taught us about the dynasty organization, it’s probably best to hold off on predicting how well the Golden State Warriors will do until all is said and done.The Warriors have been without a great deal of their core roster throughout the majority of the 2022-23 season withAll-Star forwardAndrew Wiggins and the revolutionary of the three pointer, future Hall of Famer Stephen Curry sidelined.The duo has been out as a result of battling a multitude of injuries and personal reasons. However, all of that considered the Warriors have coasted to the #6 seed behind the championship tutelage of the former SanAntonio Spur, head coach Steve Kerr, and four-time NBAchampions KlayThompson and Draymond Green.Allowing the youth of their team to gain playing experience while theirAll-Stars work their way back to 100 percent. It remains to be seen what the Warriors are capable of at full strength, but the one thing for certain is that they can never be counted out in the playoffs.

LosAngeles Lakers (43-39):The historic franchise has been one of the most discussed teams in the league the entire season.After a lackluster season in 2021-22, all bets were on that the team simply lacked chemistry, and once that was taken care of the “Showtime” Lakers would be back and efficient at full throttle.This time around however, although improved from last season, the team as constructed just wasn’t producing wins at the rate they were expected to. Before reorganizing their roster at the NBAtrade deadline the lone bright spot in the purple and yellow was undisputedly claimed by future first ballot Hall of Famer, the four-time MVPand NBAchampion forward LeBron James. James led the Lakers in points per game (28.9) and led the team in almost every recordable stat while claiming second place in only rebounding and blocked shots as the roster is presently constructed. In route of those feats at 38 years of age, the “King” also was honored for passing the all-time NBAscoring record previously held by NBA Legend KareemAbdul-Jabaar.All that said, after reconstructing their roster the Lakers were able rally from the #13 seed into the NBAPlay-in tournament and ultimately claimed the #7 seed by beating the MinnesotaTimberwolves.As long as star centerAnthony Davis and LeBron James can remain healthy, their pedigrees mandate that the Lakers remain a dark horse favorite to make another NBAFinals appearance.

MinnesotaTimberwolves (42-40):The MinnesotaTimberwolves entered the 2022-23 season making an attempt to bolster their roster with proven talent to further build around their young core of futureAll-Stars.An astonishing blockbuster deal landed the team the established three-time Defensive player of the year andAll-Star center Rudy Gobert from the Utah Jazz in exchange for a whopping five players in 2022 and five first round draft picks in the future. In hindsight, this deal benefits one side greatly more than the other considering Gobert has already spent nine seasons with Utah prior to his departure, however it remains to be seen if the move can aid in delivering a championship to Minnesota. So far their effort has shown to be considered “an all-time disaster” as the team has fallen one rank in the Western conference standings since Gobert’s acquisition. Granted, theTimberwolves were without their star center KarlAnthony-Towns for the majority of the season and traded away more assets at the NBAtrade deadline including former lottery pick guard D’Angelo Russell. Minnesota’s championship expectations seem almost unrealistic as they enter the 2022-23 playoffs as the #8 seed, even though the return of KarlAnthonyTowns helped defeat the Oklahoma CityThunder to advance to the playoffs.

2023 NAL Season

The San Antonio Gunslingers have started their season off strong with a 2-0 streak, winning against the Carolina Cobras in an exciting season opener, and then again against the Jacksonville Sharks in Florida.

Back in thefall of 2021, Jon Wayne Service Company signed on as a sponsor for the San Antonio Gunslingers arena football team for theirfirst season in the National Arena League (NAL). The Gunslingershad played their inaugural 2021 season in the AmericanArena League (AAL).

TheGunslingers’firstgameofthe2022seasonwasheldattheFreemanColiseum inSan Antonioon April23rd,andonly500fansattended.Itwasobviousthatfinancialstrugglesand lackofownershipcommitmentwerethreateningthe Gunslingersseason,andthefutureof professionalarenafootballinSanAntoniowasindoubt.

JonWaynetotheRescu

The Player of the Game program for local high school football held by Jon Wayne spotlighted their history as sports fans and community supporters for the last few years, but this wasa oneof-a-kind opportunity to be directly involved in bringing exciting, affordable,-family friendly entertainment to our hometown The fate of the Gunslingers was decided as Jon Wayne took the plunge into professional football team ownership in the spring of 2022 Within days of transitioning from being sponsors to being owners, our team was on the road to play their next game, and professional arena football was very much alive in San Antonio!

None of us are surprised to know that once involved, Jon Wayne was fully committed to creating a great experience for everyone. Don Rackler, the owner of Jon Wayne, insists on top quality in everything they do, from the ground up. This has earned them their A+ BBB Rating, of which they are very proud. Applying the same “go big or go home” approach to the sport as they apply to their service business, they aimed for and achieved success. Fans, friends, and the Jon Wayne family spread the word, and showed their support by coming to home games to root for our team.

How’s this for a spectacular turnaround: In the last home game of the season, the Gunslingers played in front of 5,000 cheering fans in the Freeman Coliseum!

Now, that’s putting some serious Gunz Up!

The Gunslingers players, coaches, and staff work their butts off to put on a great display for their fans, showcasing their skills and enthusiasm for this exciting sport. The Jon Wayne Family promoted the sport and the team, filled the seats, cheered, volunteered, and wore the colors, proudly contributing to the victories of the team. The success of our Gunslingers football season could not have happened without the dedication and hard work from everyone involved.

Recognition from the league in the 2022 season was the cherry on top. At the end of the season, the San Antonio Gunslingers received a total of four awards at the 2022 NALAwards

Ceremony inAlbany: Franchise of the Year, Head Coach of the Year: Fred Shaw, Special Teams Player of the Year: Kali Rashaad, andOffensive Player of the Year: Robert Kent.

As for the future, our commitment does not stop in the ongoing 2023 season. Jon Wayne and the Gunslingers staff continue to commit their standards to every aspect of the team and fan experience, to make 2023 even better We are invested in creating acompetitive, quality team that draws fans to see an action - packed, high - energy professional sport up close in a local venue Ourteam works endlessly to provide San Antonio with a team they can get behind, and an affordable, family friendly event they can look forward to

We are anticipating an exciting season, and work endlessly to ensure a solid experience for our fans every single time

Our goal is to share theexcitement and fun with all of San Antonio! We look forward to seeing you at our next home game, on May 28th against the Jacksonville Sharks!

“Whose House?” “Our House!”

TheSanAntonioMissionsaretheDouble-AaffiliatefortheSanDiegoPadres.The2023season isthe121stprofessionalseasonfortheSanAntonioMissions.Seasonseatmemberships,group tickets,andsingle-gameticketsforthe2023seasonareavailablenow.Call210-675-PARKto discusspricingforseasontickets,groupticketsandhospitality.TheMissionsBoxOfficewillbe cashlessthisseasonandfanscanpurchaseticketsattheboxofficeusingacreditcard.Formore informationontheupcomingseasoncall210-675-PARK(7275)orvisitsamissions.com.

MissionsFiesta HomestandBeginsTuesday,April25th

Tuesday, April25vs.NWArkansasNaturals –7:05p.m.

• Gatesopenat6:00p.m.

• AARP Two Dollar Tuesday – Fanscanpurchaseparkingandoutfieldticketsforjust$2. Domesticdraftbeersandsausagewrapswillbe$2dollars.BillMillerSweetTeaand pizzaslicesfromSofia’swillalsobe$2dollars.

Wednesday, April26vs.NWArkansasNaturals –12:05p.m.

• Gatesopenat11:00a.m

Thursday, April27vs.NWArkansas Naturals –7:05p.m.

• Gatesopenat6:00p.m.

• Taco Bell Value Night– Fanscanpurchasehalf-pricedticketsandparking.Atthegame, enjoy$2domesticdraftbeers,sodas,andHotDogs.

• FlyingChanclas – TheSanAntonioMissionswilltakethefieldastheir FlyingChanclas alter ego.

Friday, April28vs.NWArkansasNaturals –7:05p.m.

• Gatesopenat6:00p.m.

• Fiesta Jersey Giveaway – CourtesyofMcCombs FordWest,thefirst 2,000fanswill receivethefirstgiveaway jerseyofthe2023season.

• Postgame–Kidswillbeallowed torunthebasesafterthe game

Saturday, April29vs.NWArkansasNaturals –7:05p.m.

• Gatesopenat6:00p.m.

• Postgame Fireworks – Fanscanstay afterthegametoenjoyaterrific fireworksdisplay!

• Texas Lottery Lucky Row-Oneluckyrowwillreceivefreelottery ticketscourtesyofthe TexasLottery(Ages18+).

Sunday, April30vs.NWArkansas Naturals –1:05p.m.

• Gatesopenat12:00p.m.

• Six Flags Sunday – CourtesyofSixFlagsFiesta Texas,thefirst250kids48 inchesor shorterwillreceiveafreetickettoSix Flags!

• Postgame–Kidswillbeallowed torunthebasesafterthegame.

Avaya Brundidge

13 Years Old

Sport: Volleyball, Basketball, Track

School: Robert G Cole Middle School

AAU Basketball: Lady Hoops Sky Blue

Favorite Food: 10 piece chicken nugget meal at McDonalds

Favorite Color: pink

Favorite Movie: Home

Hero: My mom, shes an acve duty soldier in the Army

Avaya was selected to serve on the leadership council at Robert G Cole Middle School

She is an all around athlete that parcipates in volleyball, basketball and track.

Avaya was the leading scorer onher Robert G. Cole Middle school team averaging 25 points per game resulng in an undefeated season and District Championship. She connues to play AAU basketball year round as a starng player for Lady Hoops Sky Blue where she excels as a well rounded player bringing posive team play to the court.

Avaya has received an invitaon to showcase her talent at the Phenom Naonal Camp in Orange County California this summer giving her a plaorm to take her talents to the next level.

Avaya has aspiraons to play woman’s college basketball for a program such as LSU or Baylor as well as making it in the WNBA.

University Of The Incarnate Word Seafood Blue Rocky IV Mom

I was a two-sport athlete most of my life. From the age of six years old and up through high school, I was a standout basketball player. During the early years I playedAAU and was a top player (with Steph Curry-like game for a ki ) on tournament-winning teams! We traveled nationally and wonALOT! Simultaneously, I played football and made my mark as one of the McKinneyYouth Best Players from little league and up into high school.As I entered McKinney High School, my body began to change! I was growing into a true football body. By Senior year, my focus had become FOOTBALL!As a two-year starter at H-back at MHS, aTexas 6Aplayoff team, I got noticed for my size and speed and received nearly 20 college football scholarship offers. Ultimately, I settled on the University ofThe Incarnate Word in SanAntonio, a D1 program which is ranked top 5 nationally. Currently a freshman, I am working my way up the roster with expectations of being a big contributor in 2023.

Now at 6'1 215lbs and running a 4.45, I am poised for big things to come. UIW has had a complete coaching staff overhaul as the recent staff's success attractedTexas State to bring them on to better their program. With our new staff, my goal is to continue to grow as a college player and help UIW to continue its tradition of winning.As I mature into the student, young man, and football player I am striving to become, I hope to develop into an NFLdraft worthy player while I pursue my business degree.

Atale of a lady ninja who's personally inspired me from a different country Shanelle Dyer

She's 21 years young. Her base is Muay Thia and she is lighting up the competition in England. Shanelle Dyer is a fighter whom im excited to follow for the next decade plus

I noticed a lot of the nerds here (stateside) are starting to finally take notice. Real recognize real and for over a year now I've been a fan of then 19 year old natural striker Shanelle Dyer. She has absorbed every aspect of mixed martial arts like it's her destiny

" Nervous goes without saying. From being comfortable and natural at one sport to trying a brand new, different, and life changing one like BJJ." Brazilian JuJitsu.

Training stand up (Muay thai and K1) for about 6 years before. Even trying or eying BJJ sounded impossible as Dyer was to busy having fun racking up more than 100 fights which almost all were wins. Those wins include 27Titles in World, European and British Championships.

Shanelle got into MuayThai at 9 along with her brothers atAllstars gym. By 10, Winning her first title. "It was the best day of my life so far."Age 12 she won her first international title fight inTurkey This is when I knew without a doubt martial arts was for me.

Knowing this from the bottom of her soul. young Dyer took a three year break as a teen, returning to fight under the Knowlesy academy banner. I now fightThai/ K1 professionally.

With a million things running through that young mind she went toTeam Underground and got lost. Honestly, I was fed up with stand up at the time I took a close loss, and decided to hit up MMAcoach Steven Cooke. On her walk over there she found herself bombarding her soul asking a lot of ‘what ifs’.

‘What if I get my arm broken?’‘What if I get choked to death?’‘What if this is just a waste of time?’

Reassuring herself that she'd just stand up and turn the tables with her MuayThai. She calmed down a moment and thought out loud one of the silliest thoughts an aspiring MMAfighter could ever have. "My striking can and will get me through all of this jujitsu stuff." "The biggest realization that hit me on my walk was: I didn’t have any clue to what ju jitsu was."

Watching everyone warm up; shooting, sprawling, rolling all looked and felt like stuff from another planet! I had never watched any MMAbefore so my perception of the sport was sweaty people rolling around hugging each other until one person goes to sleep or gets their arm broken.

Even while practicing Coach Cooke would shout out ‘get closer hold tighter" In my head however all i could think about was how sweaty the opposition was. Plus im not much of a hugger. Especially hugging strangers.

This was something new, different and way out of my element at the time.

Still I went back. Everyone in the class was just amazing. Really patient and informative when it came to doing something or asking to repeat anything.The variety of levels in the class left a strong impact on me. "Would you look at all these people striving to get better and evolve at this?"

I saw people better than me,The restless white belts hungering to get better with each session.Those who I needed to get as good as.To the top of the food chain folks I just had to beat.Astrong impact felt indeed.

How I wished BJJ was as easy as just grabbing an arm and having em tapping.

BJJ is a puzzle that never fully gets finished. There's the momentum, body weight, leverage, fakes and combinations that take years and years to master. So dang, there went that master plan of just standing up and beating them with my MuayThai.The daily frustration of being tapped out in what felt like a million times was growing. It was such a humbling feeling i felt totally downgraded and vulnerable. I must admit i hated it.That feeling of being weak and helpless. Something needed to change.This change would not come easy but hey I love learning.

One of the more difficult things through this journey i was taking on was taking it solo. I didn’t tell anyone I was going to the BJJ class initially. Not even my dad until a few weeks after. Like many who don't fully understand mixed martial arts he wasn’t a fan of the sport. Mainly the limb breaking part. Whether he could see it in my eyes or hear it in my tone im still not quite sure to this day All i know is he was now on board and supportive with my new found journey. "My first MMAfight four months later on 5 days notice is when i would first allow to admit this to myself. "Hey I could really do this. I could fight MMA?"

Everything was just starting to sync in my brain.I started to fall even deeper in love with the sport. submitting guys that were literally double my weight and size.The sport became less alien to me. Now that all the things i was being taught were starting to sync in. For fun i enjoy watchingYouTube videos and starting to master the more flashy fancy moves.Allowing myself to just have fun with it and it's been a blast. I look forward to seeing where my new found love takes me. I even get that same feeling my first love MuayThai gave to me....

MMA-IS-LIFE

It's now 2023 and Shanelle Dyer now known asThe Nightmare has competed and representedTeam London on many occasions winning medals. While being an absolute nightmare in the amateur scene. Shanelle Dyer just made the move having her first professional fight last month. March 11th 2023. Winning by spinning back fist KO in the 1st round. She'll be back in the cage this weekend 4/22/23 a little over a month later and exactly one day before turning 22.

I hope somebody found inspiration in this ninja tale on my Facebook buddy Shanelle who's whooping ass in the U.K. I'm salivating at the day when i could watch this young lady perform live being an absolute nightmare to the lady ninjas in the states.

Proud to be the first if not one of the first (the first) to start telling the story of UK's prospect ShanelleThe Nightmare Dyer here in the states.

Lavonte Montgomery

It's a sunny day windy and fresh. Birds chirping.There's something in the air An aura champion like energy. With me is SanAntonio's own Lavonte Montgomery.

In fact we are here in Denver Heights Park today where L.V better known to the MMAcommunity as Da Street Sweepa grew up. Fist fights first kisses and everything in between from childhood to teen.

The now 25 yr old amateur mixed martial artist is giving MMA-IS-LIFE a bit of his time on this beautiful Monday afternoon.

This is an in-depth interview with the Street Sweepa followed by a photoshoot. Matter of fact these snapshots on these pages are of this moment here.

This is 2TenSports introduction to MMA-IS-LIFE articles. With this being the first batch of three you'll be getting per month.

So readers, this here is The Street Sweepa. I hope you all enjoy getting to know Mr Montgomery as he is a month or so away from marching down to Houston,Tx with his teamThe House of Jujitsu. HOJ which is located on beautiful downtown SanAntonioTx.

If you're ever around 823 S. Laredo st I recommend you stop by. It's a huge facility with good people.

Champ Camp

Is officially getting started for Da Street Sweepa today. Still in good shape physically as jus last month he was fighting at Port LavacaTx. ForTap or Scrap Promotions 5th installment.

That to was a title fight.Atitle fight for the honor of becomingT.O.S Promotions first 155lb champion. Against a much bigger opponent from Corpus Christi.

The night was bitter sweet as the HOJTeam went into Port LavacaTx to win a fight and bring home a title.The fight part went off according to plan. Montgomery came out with the win.

However as an amateur fighter with less than a handful of fights. Sometimes will have a hiccup.This hiccup though came in the form of missing the 155lb mark inorder to qualify to fight for the title. (Big Hiccup)

Disappointed drained and embarrassed L.V showed what type of person and fighter he is by making the trip and go on to fight.

knowing that win or lose he would have zero chances of leaving town a champion. His 6'1 light weight opponent would indeed be eligible to be crowned due to the fact he made the weight.All he needed to do was fight and beat Lavonte.

"Honestly with all due respect to my opponent i was coming into town last month with the intention of putting him in a stretcher. If need be i too was mentally prepared to get taken out in one myself if need be."

That was last month however.The future is next month May 21st FuryFC 80 in HoustonTexas. Ramping up the training doing two a day sessions. Not to mention helping coach the kiddos. Tomorrow's ninjas.

Many pints of sweat and hard work is definitely being put in these weeks for the Street Sweepa. Grinding there with him through this champ camp are a well organized coaching staff with tons of knowledge.

There's new MuayThai coach, Coach Zumbi out of Brazil who's trained the greatAnderson Silva before. CoachTodd, Coach David on jits. Coach Passion with that Sambo as well as Coach Gunnar

It's ran by the man who envisioned invested and created the squad head coach Jacob Landin. Who together L.V and Coach Landin have grown a special brotherly bond. On top of an already strong coach/pupil kinship.

As they're hunt for gold nears.These hours and hours of preparation for next months invasion of yet another city on a 2nd hunt for 10lbs of gold.The Denver Heights scrapper is looking sounding and shining like a champion.

All he has to do now is march on over to the 7-1-3 and turn all this hard work into championship gold. So from MMA-IS-LIFE and the whole 2-1-0 we wanna say lesss gooo Lavonte

JoseAlberto Villarreal

The Boy they Call Beast

As of last month he's completed a full 2 years of hard work and grinding in the sport of jujitsu.These last 730 days have turned J.A.V 3 aka Beast into one disciplined sharp fine tuned machine. Jujitsu, is what he does and jujitsu is who he is. Who's he ? He's J.A.V 3 but to his family he's

JoseAlberto Villarreal the 3rd.This 11 year old boy is out of SanAntonioTx. He first realized his love for this lifestyle and everything that came with it. Since his very first day of class.The intensity and the butt kickin.The whole aspect of this competitive sport known as jujitsu. From the first time his feet touched that mat JoseAlberto Villarreal the 3rd was hooked.

Training out of a deep gym where if you don't evolve you basically get run overed.That gym being "UnityTraining Center" under the tutelage of Professor Ray Rdz better known asThe Judge. MMA flyweight fighter

Coach Eddie Fraire and CoachAnthony

Along with a mixture of some of the most skilled and ever evolving mini ninjas in the city. Each teammate bringing there own unique set of problems and skills to the mat to be solved with each session.Together make J.A.V 3 the competitor he is today. He is a Beast !!!

Along with his bud "Epic Eric" together they are constantly and consistently sharpening each others skill set even after hours.As well as on weekends. While your average 11 year olds are doing whatever it is that eleven year old regular kids do.This pair are putting in that overtime it takes to be not just good. But great.

Which is just what Beast requires since he usually finds himself in a unique position.That being he signs up to compete at the 65lb and under category. Due to his age however it's not anything new when he ends up getting bumped in weight class and finds himself rolling with bigger sometimes stronger kids. J.A.V 3 welcomes the challenge however It's something he believes that has forced him to evolve his game on those mats. In fact that's what brings the beast out of him.

It's a must especially with such high goals and expectations he has set for himself. Which they all start with what his coaches always tell em. Make sure you “Get 1% better everyday.”

One of the highest goals Beast has set for himself would be to get inside that cage. "That's something I would love to do." He says with a scary confident look and tone to him that jus adds to thee aura. Beast who turns 12 on May 5th (Cinco De Mayo baby) expects to be a fighter one day. So until that day comes you can expect to see his mug and hear his name at competitions. JoseAlberto Villarreal the 3rd.Those initials J.A.V 3AKAThe boy best known as Beast!!!

J.A.V the 3rd would like to send Shout outs to all his coach’s at Unity for always motivating him to push forward. Facing all adversity

To my Professor Ray for his one on one talks he has with me.To Coach Eddie for taking me under his wing and giving me all the advice he’s given to me.And of course to my parents for blessing me with opportunities that they didn’t have when they where younger ✌

BEASTS CURRENTCREDENTIALS

Grey belt

Awards= to many to count but I have a-lot.

Countless tournaments which I have placed in every single one I’ve competed in.Along with many swords, and many metals.