2Ten Sports Magazine May 2023 Issue

TableofContents

P.4 SummertimeSunandskinsafety

ByDr.MariannePinkston

P.8 DallasCowboys2023draft prioritizeDefense

ByAaronReff

P.12 2023NFldraftdebrief Afcsouthandotherwinners

by

gregg

Rosenthal

aroundthenflpodcastco-host

P.18 hidef:eddiefraire sanantonio’sfavoriteflyweight

by johnnoriega

P.22 SanAntonioGunslingers startseason4-0 by website

P.25 sanantoniomissionsbaseball momanddoghomestandschedule samissionspressrelease

P.29 Healingpowerofthe sanantoniospurs

bychrishockman

P.32 lilanimaljacobsilva mma-is-lifeseries

byjohnnoriega

P.34 minininjaseries

makayla “dacheetah”

byjohnnoriega

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

Summertime Sun and Skin Safety

It’s party time for mostAmericans! Birthday parties, swimming parties and events, beach trips and more are the rule of the summer time fun while the kids are out of school. Soaking up the rays can be good for your vitamin D and even for your brain in that sunlight helps depression and your bones and more. It’s not all fun and games though. I had melanoma, a form of deadly skin cancer and one of the most deadly cancers there is. It can be very tiny and in non sun exposed areas such as buried in your scalp or belly button, your inner ear or the back of your eye… the retina. I’ll stick to skin cancers from tanning beds and sun for now. Skin cancer surgery can be disfiguring and devastating and skin cancer is deadly. I would love to share how to identify skin cancer and also to wear sunscreen. Wearing sunscreen helps prevent aging too! In an age where we spend thousands on Botox, fillers and anti aging lasers and products… did you know you can save so much of your time and money wearing sunscreen. Parents make your kids wear it all the time as a habit like brushing teeth!! I wish I would have as a kid.Aging and skin cancer and all preventable. I will give you published advice from theAmericanAcademy of Dermatology on sunscreens and cancers. Read more at www.aad.org

TheAmericanAcademy of Dermatology (AAD) published frequently asked questions. Here is straight from their site: Sunscreen

Broad-spectrum protection (protects against UVAand UVB rays), SPF 30 or higher, Water resistance

Asunscreen that offers the above helps to protect your skin from sunburn, early skin aging3 and skin cancer. However, sunscreen alone cannot fully protect you. In addition to wearing sunscreen, dermatologists recommend taking the following steps to protect your skin and detect skin cancer early, when it’s most treatable:

Seek shade when appropriate, remembering that the sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. If your shadow is shorter than you are, seek shade.4

Dress to protect yourself from the sun by wearing a lightweight and long-sleeved shirt, pants, a widebrimmed hat, and sunglasses with UV protection, when possible. For more effective sun protection, select clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) number on the label.

Use extra caution near water, snow, and sand as they reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.

Get vitamin D safely through a healthy diet that may include vitamin supplements. Don’t seek the sun.5

Avoid tanning beds. Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds can cause skin cancer and wrinkling.3,6 If you want to look tan, you may wish to use a self-tanning product, but continue to use sunscreen with it.

Check your birthday suit on your birthday. If you notice anything changing, itching or bleeding on your skin, see a board-certified dermatologist. Skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early.

When to wear sunscreen

Every day if you will be outside.The sun emits harmful UV rays year-round. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of the sun’s harmful UV rays can penetrate the clouds.7

Be extra mindful about applying sunscreen around snow, sand, and water, as these surfaces reflect the sun’s rays, increasing your chance of sunburn.

Most people only apply about 20–50% of the amount of sunscreen needed to achieve the amount of SPF on the label.8

Apply enough sunscreen to cover all exposed skin. Most adults need about 1 ounce — or enough to fill a shot glass — to fully cover their entire body

Don't forget to apply to the tops of your feet, your neck, your ears and the top of your head.

Apply sunscreen to dry skin 15 minutes before going outdoors.

Skin cancer also can form on the lips.To protect your lips, apply a lip balm or lipstick that contains sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher

When outdoors, reapply sunscreen approximately every two hours, or after swimming or sweating, according to the directions on the bottle.

Is it safe to tan

UVArays (or aging rays) can prematurely age your skin, causing wrinkles and age spots, and can pass through window glass.

UVB rays (or burning rays) are the primary cause of sunburn and are blocked by window glass.

The United States Department of Health & Human Services and the World Health Organization’s InternationalAgency of Research on Cancer have declared UV radiation from the sun and artificial sources, such as tanning beds and sun lamps, a known carcinogen (cancer-causing substance).9

There is no safe way to tan. Every time you tan, you damage your skin.As this damage builds, you speed up the aging of your skin and increase your risk for all types of skin cancer

UVArays (or aging rays) can prematurely age your skin, causing wrinkles and age spots, and can pass through window glass.

UVB rays (or burning rays) are the primary cause of sunburn and are blocked by window glass.

The United States Department of Health & Human Services and the World Health Organization’s InternationalAgency of Research on Cancer have declared UV radiation from the sun and artificial sources, such as tanning beds and sun lamps, a known carcinogen (cancer-causing substance).9

There is no safe way to tan. Every time you tan, you damage your skin.As this damage builds, you speed up the aging of your skin and increase your risk for all types of skin cancer.

Studies show sunscreen does not limit vitamin D absorption!

Now for how to identify a skin cancer

Skin cancer appears on the body in many different ways. It can look like a: Changing mole or mole that looks different from your others Dome-shaped growth Scaly patch Non-healing sore or sore that heals and returns

Brown or black streak under a nail It can also show up in other ways.

To find skin cancer on your body, you don’t have to remember a long list. Dermatologists sum it up this way. It’s time to see a dermatologist if you notice a spot on your skin that: Differs from the others

Changes Itches Bleeds

THE LOOK-ABCDE

Ais forAsymmetry One half of the spot is unlike the other half

B is for Border

The spot has an irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined border

C is for Color

The spot has varying colors from one area to the next, such as shades of tan, brown or black, or areas of white, red, or blue

D is for Diameter

While melanomas are usually greater than 6 millimeters, or about the size of a pencil eraser, when diagnosed, they can be smaller

E is for Evolving

The spot looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape, or color

Go to aad.org and search:

Skin cancer types: Melanoma Signs and symptoms

And have a wonderful and safe and anti aging summer!!!

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

Cowboys commit to D in the “Big D”

Aaron Reff

Dallas Cowboys prioritize defensive additions in the 2023 NFLDraft despite their losses on offense in the off-season.

Despite losing key veteran free agents from their offense the Dallas Cowboys focused on accentuating their top ranked defense from a year ago.

Quarterback Dak Prescott had a lackluster season with the weapons at his disposal compiling a 23:15TD/Int ratio en route to a 12-5 record last season.To aid Prescott, Dallas spent little time adding explosiveness to their offense acquiring veteran wide receiver Brandin Cooks in exchange for their 2023 fifth and 2024 sixth round draft picks from the HoustonTexans. However, the seemingly win on offense came with its share of losses losing former Pro Bowl running back Ezekiel Elliot and trusty tight-end Dalton Schultz.

Many fans hoped that the front office would use the NFLDraft beginning onApril 27, 2023 to add more offensive weapons in response. Especially with the franchise also bolstering their already dominant defense by trading for veteran Pro Bowl cornerback Stephon Gilmore in exchange for a 5th round draft pick this offseason from the Indianapolis Colts.

The Dallas Cowboys felt an overwhelming need to further solidify their top ranked defense grabbing defensive assets with four of their first six picks.The two on offense being offensive tackleAsim Richards from North Carolina in the fifth round and tight-end Luke Schoonmaker from Michigan on day two of the draft.

The Cowboys opted to wait until the sixth and final rounds to address their needs on offense, choosing running back Deuce Vaughn from Kansas State and wide receiver Jalen Brooks from South Carolina in hopes that they can develop into dynamic playmakers for the franchise.

Although released in free agency, one of the Cowboys’hopes is for Ezekiel Elliot to stall out his signing in hopes that the veteran Pro Bowler will return to the team in a “limited role”.The main reason for his release was to elevateTony Pollard to the starting running back position as they just signed him to their franchise tag on March 6, 2023 for one year at $10 million. However, if he opts to sign elsewhere Dallas will be forced to rely heavily upon the 26 year old running back who will be returning from a broken fibula and severe ankle sprain he sustained in January 2023.

All hopes for the Cowboy’s 2023-24 season appear to be banked on the Micah Parsons led defense to be a stand-out in the league once again while Dak does his best with what he has in his arsenal. Outside of adding Brandin Cooks into the fold to join wideout CeeDee Lamb, the franchise did add three new offensive linemen (two via free agency) to aid Dak who’s set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2025.

Here are the selections the Dallas Cowboys made in the 2023 NFLDraft:

Round 1, Pick No. 26: Mazi Smith, DT, Michigan

Round 2, Pick No. 58: Luke Schoonmaker,TE, Michigan

Round 3, Pick No. 90: DeMarvion Overshown, LB,Texas

Round 4, Pick No. 129: Viliami Fehoko, EDGE, San Diego State

Round 5, Pick No. 169:Asim Richards, OT, North Carolina

Round 6, Pick No. 178: Eric Scott Jr., CB, Southern Miss

Round 6, Pick No. 212: Deuce Vaughn, RB, Kansas State

Round 7, Pick No. 244: Jalen Brooks, WR, South Carolina

2023 NFLDraft Debrief:AFC South, Steelers, Geno Smith up; veteran trade market, rumor mill down

Published:Apr29,2023at09:04PM

Gregg Rosenthal

Around The NFLPodcast Co-Host

After months of speculation, innuendo and apparent straight-up lies, the 2023 NFLDraft is in the books! Here are a few of my winners and losers from the three-day extravaganza.

Watchability of theAFC South: Selfishly, I'm happy theTexans took C.J. Stroud (No. 2 overall) and the Colts draftedAnthony Richardson (No. 4), just because that makes two more teams must-see television on NFLGame Pass.TheTexans must believe they can win now, or they wouldn't have traded one of their 2024 first-round picks to the Cardinals to move back up to No. 3 for Will Anderson.They may not be that far off.

Stroud's accuracy should fit right into coordinator Bobby Slowik's ShanahanTree offense. It's possible Stroud's ceiling isn't as high as that of BryceYoung (drafted first overall by Carolina) and Richardson, but the 21-year-old's floor looks like Kirk Cousins or Derek Carr. I'm excited to watch Stroud in an offense that can incorporate feisty wideoutTank Dell (drafted 69th overall in Round 3), make–you-miss running back Dameon Pierce and one of last year's second-round picks, receiver John Metchie (who is returning from leukemia), all behind a solid offensive line.This was general manager Nick Caserio's third draft in Houston, and there's finally an apparent vision.

The Colts are even more exciting. I can't imagine Richardson sitting behind Gardner Minshew for long, if at all. (Colts owner Jim Irsay seemingly admitted as much to NFL.com's Judy Battista.) Head coach Shane Steichen will want to spend the rest of the offseason building around Richardson's considerable strengths, including his underrated pocket presence.The offensive line isn't perfect, but having JonathanTaylor, Richardson and Quenton Nelson on the same roster has to lead to some explosive running plays and huge advantages in short-yardage situations. Richardson is at his best throwing downfield, where Michael Pittman andAlec Pierce win.Third-round pick Josh Downs (No. 79 overall) reminds me of Hunter Renfrow. In a wide-open division, the Colts look even closer to contention than theTexans. Most importantly for me, their journey will be box-office gold, spicing up what was a blah division in 2022.

Pittsburgh Steelers:The Steelers partnered with the Jets' rivals in Foxborough to move up in Round 1 and select the last top-shelf tackle in the draft, Broderick Jones -- that was a pick where value and need met up for Pittsburgh. During the broadcast, NFLNetwork Insider Ian Rapoport suggested the Steelers considered taking cornerback Joey Porter Jr. in the first round, and though that didn't happen, they did use the pick acquired from Chicago in exchange for Chase Claypool last November (No. 32 overall) to grab Porter on Day 2. Porter has the length and physicality to upgrade a small Steelers secondary.

The values kept coming, with tight Darnell Washington, a perfectTE to pair with Pat Freiermuth, in the third round (No. 93) and linebacker Nick Herbig, who, at No. 73, was the highest player available on Daniel Jeremiah's board by far when Pittsburgh took him (with the No. 132 overall selection), in the fourth.Throw in defensive tackle Keeanu Benton (Round 2, No. 49 overall), and I'd be surprised if the Steelers aren't among the leaders in rookie snaps in 2023. I also like how Steelers GM Omar Khan appears more willing to make trades than the previous regime.

Geno Smith, QB, Seattle Seahawks:The Seahawks didn't have a chance to draftAnthony Richardson at No. 5 overall, so Smith no longer has to worry about the alternate timeline in which that happened. Instead, Smith can enjoy this universe, with Seattle's haul including the safest, most pro-ready receiver in this class, Jaxon Smith-Njigba (No. 20 overall). It's hard to imagine a receiver fitting better betweenTyler Lockett and DK Metcalf. Someone is going to be open on every snap, and SmithNjigba has the vision to turn short throws into chunk plays.

Seattle also used the bounty of picks acquired in last year's Russell Wilson trade to build up the defense, securing the draft's best cornerback, Devon Witherspoon (No. 5 overall), andAuburn edge player Derick Hall (Round 2, No. 37 overall).The Seahawks kept passing on quarterback Hendon Hooker in favor of players who can help Smith win. Pass-catching back Zach Charbonnet (Round 2, No. 52 overall) will be an excellent outlet receiver when pressure arrives. Not only does Geno have job security, he has a shot to lead one of the best teams in a watered-down NFC.

Brad Holmes' confidence:The Lions GM cares not for your opinion on positional value. Detroit acted like the fantasy football manager on tilt after the Seahawks took Witherspoon fifth overall, getting marginal value for the move back from No. 6 to No. 12 before taking pass-catchingAlabama back Jahmyr Gibbs. I like Gibbs. Who doesn't like a big-play back? But I'm not convinced the backfield of David Montgomery and Gibbs is appreciably different than last year's duo of Jamaal Williams (who left in free agency) and D'Andre Swift (who was traded to the Eagles on Saturday).

The rest of the Lions' draft was similarly surprising, but the return was better. Off-ball linebacker Jack Campbell (picked 18th overall) pushes Hard Knocks star Malcolm Rodriguez down the depth chart, unfortunately, but adds a core piece at a weak position. I loved the value of safety/slot cornerback Brian Branch in the second round (No. 45 overall). Sam LaPorta was my favorite value tight end in this class, and the Lions agreed, taking him 34th overall, one spot before Notre Dame's Michael Mayer

At age 25,Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker, taken in the third round, is somehow only three years younger than Jared Goff, who has logged 100 career starts. Still, I like the team having a younger option to develop in case it turns out Goff peaked with last year's performance.Any team that has six picks in the first three rounds should look better after the draft, but the Lions got those picks due to Holmes' ingenuity. He showed this weekend he sees things differently than most evaluators, and it's hard not to give Holmes the benefit of the doubt after the last two years.

The Ravens' title chances: Ravens coach John Harbaugh always said publicly he wanted Lamar Jackson, and I didn't doubt it. Jackson's breakout in 2018 likely helped save Harbaugh's job, and the Ravens surely didn't want to go back to quarterback purgatory. Lamar not only has a great contract now, he has much better weapons, thanks to the additions of free agent Odell Beckham and first-round pick Zay Flowers (No. 22 overall), as well as Rashod Bateman's return from injury. With new offensive coordinatorTodd Monken in place, it feels like a new era in Baltimore.The excuses are gone, because this roster is ready to compete for a title.Also gone: anyone whining that Jackson needs an agent.

Cleveland Browns:They did as well as possible for a team without a pick in the top 70.Tennessee receiver CedricTillman (Round 3, No. 74 overall) was one of my favorites in this class. He can make plays on the boundary in tight quarters. Massive Ohio State tackle Dawand Jones (No. 111 overall) was an excellent value in the fourth round, and UCLAprospect DorianThompson-Robinson (Round 5, No. 140 overall) was better than a lot of quarterbacks taken ahead of him in the fifth round.Aselection that secures a quality backup quarterback and Deshaun Watson insurance on Day 3 of the draft is a pick well spent.

TRENDING DOWN

Veteran trades: DeAndre Hopkins is still anArizona Cardinal. Dalvin Cook and Za'Darius Smith remain in Minnesota.The Bengals still have Jonah Williams, as expected, and the Bucs aren't dealing Devin White. Derrick Henry and RyanTannehill appear locked into theTitans' roster. Trey Lance is still a 49er, Mac Jones isn't facing any new competition, much less a new playbook, and Lamar Jackson got a contract, not a trade. Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy remain with the Broncos.

Sure, there were a few small moves. D'Andre Swift is headed from one crowded backfield to another after joining the Eagles in exchange for a 2025 fourth-round pick and change. Broncos coach Sean Payton brought in former Saints tight endAdamTrautman for the price of a lateround pick swap. But most of the biggest potential trades didn't happen and didn't generate a lot of buzz. It's possible one or more of the names above could still move before the season, but trade enthusiasts can probably nap until training camp.

Draft speculation: Can we have all the time back we spent hearing about C.J. Stroud's potential draft fall, theTexans not taking a quarterback at No. 2 and the Colts' strong affinity for Will Levis? Bill Belichick also appeared to pull a fast one with the quarterback buzz coming out of New England, which did not end up drafting a signal-caller. Sanity reigned at the top of the draft; the top five picks were completely logical. But logic went out the window when it came to much of the bad predraft speculation.

Kenneth Walker fantasy owners: UCLA's Zach Charbonnet was perhaps the most complete back in this draft except for Bijan Robinson (who went eighth overall to the Falcons). In Seattle, Charbonnet is going to get plenty of playing time next to Walker, a former second-round pick in his own right, to the frustration of fantasy owners.

The Broncos' side of the Russell Wilson trade: If Wilson doesn't dramatically improve in 2023, this deal is going down like Herschel Walker to the Vikings.

Sean Payton has done everything possible to help Wilson in Denver this offseason, investing in the offensive line and adding to the Broncos' considerable receiver depth with Marvin Mims (No. 63 overall) in the second round. Even if Wilson bounces back to above average in 2023, though, the contract, draft picks and time the Broncos gave up to get him probably won't be worth it.

EddieFraire

SanAntonio’s Favorite Flyweight

This here is not to convince anyone of this. If you know you know.This is from the eyes of a big brother. Who's seen the runt.The youngest one, the baby of 5 excel in his studies and especially sports. (Basketball n football) From flag football at the park as a young boy.To his middle school days at Kingsbrough on the south side of SanAntonio. His coaches would wonder how such a shorty like Eddie was able to hit like a bison? Head first always aiming for the knockout.Alot like nowadays. Fraire infact did have a reason for being so aggressive in an already aggressive sport. He adopted this animal like style by playing with so much raw emotion.

In a house that carried so many emotions and bad energy Anger, abandonment cheated mixed in with a few good times and happy memories.

Due to bad choices and alcohol abuse Eddie's father ended up getting deported leaving the picture when Fraire was only 8. His big brothers lost and adjusting to this new way of life themselves were still just kids. Rebelling, gang banging and growing up fast it's only by God's grace that the now 31 year old father of 6 is on the right track.

With a hard working single mom of 5 now running the house hold by herself. It wouldn't be long before Eddie hit his rebel phase. Quitting sports in high school getting involved in many of the same stuff as his 4 older siblings. In fact we damn near missed out on Hi DEF the fighter As the young man lacked discipline, yearned competition and needed a way to relief stress. He to was starting to make bad choices.The most notable one leaving school in the 10th grade. Never a bad kid just simply lost and nowhere to put all his energy into.

April 9th 2005 that all changed when a new television show premiered calledThe Ultimate Fighter. Where 16 aspiring fighters many with there own bad childhood stories aired. We were hooked. January 05 toApril when the show concluded with a free 2hr card of MMAfights which would ignite a flame in many folks to this day, one of those being Eddie. By the end of those fights my brother told me with the most serious tone in his voice said. "I can do that" Now with a new motivation driving the 14 year old, he all by his lonesome found a gym to train at. Did odd jobs like mow lawns, washed cars, cut hair to save up enough funds to train in the sport.The sport of mixed martial arts.

He found a spot and had saved up enough to start training. He excelled so quickly that he learned all he was gonna learn from that spot and now the 16 yr old soon to be father found his second gym. Lozano Gym where he took 2 amateur fights with. Dusted the competition and went 2-0 while settling down and started growing a family

Taking life and training more serious he took a hire paying job and ramped up his training methods. It was then when he yet again soaked up all he was going to learn from his second gym and with 3 kids and expecting a 4th. Eddie had to step away from his comfort Zone and both find a higher paying job and one that would allow him to still train.Doing just that he started at River City Produce as a part of the production team. Where he now is currently working as a supervisor. Moving up in jobs and finding his 3rd and current gym.Training now more intensified along with more responsibilities at work. He soon found his bad habits declining.

Training under Military vet and one of SanAntonio's staples in combat sports Ray the judge Rodriguez. Under Ultimate SubmissionAcademy now known as UNITYTraining center. That lost young man now transformed into a much different and better person. Loved and respected at work.He started gaining a few sponsors to help with his fighter aspirations. Quit drinking and smoking made a couple more babies. I believe he's at 6 now and happily married.

It was time to go pro as a fighter The hard hitting loved father, husband, son, brother, supervisor, and kid coach at UNITYhas 7 professional fights under him 4 wins with 3 of them coming in a combined 35 sec. I've heard and witnessed the crowd go wild chanting his name. Stomping there feet.Throwing babies up in the air in excitement for this young man. It seems like the city has really gotten behind Hi DEF Eddie Fraire. With his bosses, sponsors, coworkers, child hood friends and alot of his students always at his fights. Not to mention his family there going crazy. Eddie is indeed the city of SanAntonio's favorite flyweight. Which is the division he competes in. We all love us some Hi DEF and I personally can't wait to see how far he can take this fight dream.

This here was the origins of a lost kid who found himself. Worked extremely hard matured and gained respect by all who have gotten to know him. I'm proud of my brother. My baby bro. Keep striving Edward much love from your big bro..

Start the Season 4-0

FAYETTEVILLE, NC -The SanAntonio Gunslingers defeated the Fayetteville Mustangs in Fayetteville this Sunday 40-27 to remain undefeated in the 2023 NationalArena League season.

SanAntonio and Fayetteville traded touchdowns on their first possessions before Rakeem Cato of Fayetteville was intercepted by Kyle Chandler.This was the first of five turnovers committed by the Mustangs. Four plays later, SanAntonio’sArvell Nelson carried the ball into the end zone to give the Gunslingers their first lead of the game.The Mustangs never regained that lead despite tying the game up twice, with their last tie coming at the end of the third quarter on a touchdown reception by Shavarez Smith to make the score 27-27. SanAntonio broke away at the start of the fourth quarter when Nelson threw his fourth and final passing touchdown of the game to Kali Rashaad. Fayetteville turned the ball over on their next two possessions and allowed the Gunslingers to score two more touchdowns before the end of the game.

Fayetteville was held to their lowest scoring output of the season, below the 50 points scored in their win over WestTexas in the previous week. Cato had twenty completions on twenty-seven passes with two touchdowns, two interceptions, and a fumble. Daniel Bender and Shavarez Smith each collected a touchdown pass.The Mustang’s other two scores came on a rushing touchdown byTre’vanta Long in the first quarter and kickoff return by Kendrick Ings in the second quarter. Kicker ErikAmaya finished one for three on extra point conversions but made a deuce in the third quarter.The sole two point conversion attempt by Fayetteville featured two fumbles and a desperate pass to the end zone that was caught for an apparent conversion which was overturned after an official’s review.

For SanAntonio, Nelson completed fifteen of twenty-five passes for four touchdowns and rushed for two touchdowns. Four different Gunslingers pulled in a touchdown in four different quarters. Phillip Barnett caught his in the first quarter, Kadir Chisolm in the second, Brian Robinson in the third, and Kali Rashaad in the fourth quarter. Defensively, Chisolm also made the second Gunslinger interception of the afternoon and Calvin Fance recorded his first sack in a SanAntonio uniform.

SanAntonio has their second bye week before facing the 1-3 WestTexas Warbirds Saturday May 20th in Odessa.The Fayetteville Mustangs also have a bye next week before hosting the Carolina Cobras.

ABOUTTHE SANANTONIO GUNSLINGERS

The SanAntonio Gunslingers are members of the NationalArena League (NAL) and were awarded Franchise of theYear by the NALfor their overall performance during the 2022 season. Gunslingers play all home games at the Freeman Coliseum. Follow the Gunslingers on Facebook at @210sagunslingers, onTwitter @SA_Gunslingers and Instagram @sanantoniogunslingers. For Gunslingers season tickets, group packages or partnerships, visit https://www.sanantoniogunslingers.com/tickets or call (210) 298-6900.

ABOUTNATIONALARENALEAGUE

The NationalArena League was founded in 2016 and hosted its inaugural season in 2017 as the premier league in arena football.The NationalArena League has kicked off its seventh season in 2023. For more information regarding expansion opportunities or partnerships, contact Commissioner Chris Siegfried at chris@nationalarenaleague.com . For more information about the NALvisit www.nationalarenaleague.com, facebook.com/nationalarenaleague, twitter.com/NALfootball, Instagram.com/nationalarenaleague.

TheSanAntonioMissionsaretheDouble-AaffiliatefortheSanDiegoPadres.The2023season isthe121stprofessionalseasonfortheSanAntonioMissions.Seasonseatmemberships,group tickets,andsingle-gameticketsforthe2023seasonareavailablenow.Call210-675-PARKto discusspricingforseasontickets,groupticketsandhospitality.TheMissionsBoxOfficewillbe cashlessthisseasonandfanscanpurchaseticketsattheboxofficeusingacreditcard.Formore informationontheupcomingseasoncall210675PARK(7275)orvisitsamissions.com

Moms and Dogs Homestand BeginsTuesday, May 9th

¾ Hoodie Giveaway, MilitaryAppreciation & Bark in the Park Highlight Homestand

SANANTONIO –The SanAntonio Missions return to Nelson Wolff Stadium onTuesday, May 9th for their third homestand of the 2023 season.The Missions will be hosting a six-game series against the Corpus Christi Hooks (HoustonAstros affiliate) fromTuesday, May 9th until Sunday, May 14th.

Tuesday, May 9 vs. Corpus Christi Hooks – 7:05 p.m. Gates open at 6:00 p.m.

AARPTwo DollarTuesday – Fans can purchase parking and outfield tickets for just $2. Domestic draft beers and sausage wraps will be $2 dollars. Bill Miller SweetTea and pizza slices from Sofia’s will also be $2 dollars.

Wednesday, May 10 vs. Corpus Christi Hooks – 5:05 p.m. (Doubleheader) Gates open at 4:30 p.m.

Doubleheader –The Missions and Hooks will be playing two 7-inning contests with game one starting at 5:05 p.m.The two clubs are making up a rained-out game fromApril 23rd. Fans with tickets for tonight can attend both games.

MilitaryAppreciation Night – Courtesy of Chevy, all active and retired military members can receive up to four bullpen or outfield reserved tickets by showing their military ID at the First Base Box Office.

Military City – During the second game, the Missions will be wearing special ‘Military City’ camouflage jerseys.

Thursday, May 11 vs. Corpus Christi Hooks – 7:05 p.m. Gates open at 6:00 p.m.

Taco Bell Value Night – Fans can purchase half-priced tickets and parking.At the game, enjoy $2 domestic draft beers, sodas, and Hot Dogs.

Flying Chanclas –The SanAntonio Missions will take the field as their Flying Chanclas alter ego.

Friday, May 12 vs. Corpus Christi Hooks – 7:05 p.m. Gates open at 6:00 p.m.

Missions ¾ Hoodie Giveaway – Courtesy of Bill Miller BBQ, the first 1,500 fans will receive this comfortable and stylish souvenir

Postgame – Kids will be allowed to run the bases after the game.

Saturday, May 13 vs. Corpus Christi Hooks – 7:05 p.m. Gates open at 6:00 p.m.

KahligAuto Group Postgame Fireworks – Fans can stay after the game to enjoy a terrific fireworks display!

Texas Lottery Lucky Row - One lucky row will receive free lottery tickets courtesy of theTexas Lottery (Ages 18+).

Circle K Food Drive – In a partnership between the Missions, Circle K and the SanAntonio Food Bank, fans will be able to donate “Summer Meals for Kids” items at Nelson Wolff Stadium. Per donation, fans can receive a pair of tickets to a future Missions game.

Sunday, May 14 vs. Corpus Christi Hooks – 1:05 p.m. Gates open at 12:00 p.m.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Bark in the Park – Courtesy of North Park Subaru, fans will be allowed to bring their four-legged friends to enjoy some Missions baseball!

Postgame – Kids, moms and dogs will be allowed to run the bases after the game.

The global and healing power of the San Antonio Spurs.

Whenever you get a phone call at 5am that’s never good. On April 25th 2023 it was from my wife, she saw a post on Facebook, my Uncle Jack had passed away and she wanted to tell me rather than having me see it on a post. She was right and I was floored, shocked, and worst of all knew I wouldn’t be able to be there for my family.

One of the hardest things about being an immigrant is these moments, someone is sick or passes away and you can’t be there. My Uncle Jack’s wake isn’t the first me I’ve missed one.

But this isn’t a sad story about my uncle, this is about something that we bonded over and the power of sports to heal, and the San Antonio Spurs.

My uncle is from Adelaide, South Australia. Like the Republic of Texas, South Australia was founded in 1836. That’s why the basketball team is the Adelaide 36ers and why it is a sister city of Ausn. That, along with the Spurs history of supporng Australians is why my uncle was a San Antonio Spurs fan.

Before there was Pay Mills there was Andrew Gaze who played for the Spurs in the 1999 season. That happened to be a peak moment for interest in basketball in Australia, the Olympic Games were coming and Luc Longley had just had a period of dominance for the Chicago Bulls.

When I got the opportunity to see all five of the Spurs Championship trophies my Uncle was the first person I showed. He was happy to see them and happy that I got the opportunity.

But there was more to it for my uncle. Like me he had mental health struggles. We both found solace in each other, sharing our struggles and our successes. We also found that solace in sports, and in talking about it together. Whether that be the Spurs or soccer or cricket or my uncle’s beloved horse racing, sports was a phenomenal outlet for both of us. The beauty of sports is being able to forget your troubles for however long the game lasts, we found that together

It's fing that the last me I saw my uncle was when I was back in Australia for my sister’s wedding and sports was involved. My home town Central Coast Mariners was playing Adelaide United the day before the wedding so we went to the game, we talked about our struggles, our successes and how happy we were for each other. And yes, we talked about the Spurs.

For somebody who never had dreams of lacing up the 4 oz gloves. Nor hear that cage door lock behind him 35 year old Jacob Silva will forever be remembered as aTx MMAstaple.

Started with Silverback Fight Club where his coach at the time "CoachTony" approached a 22-23 year old Jacob about fighting. With Silva declining due to him not seeing himself as a fighter.

Once a second opportunity arose a young Silva was in.This wouldn't be jus any debut.This debut had a bit more at stake.

This scrap would be a main event and with a championship at stake.

Fight night came and saw Silva drop a razor close split decision.That however was 2011. Fast forward to 2023 and LilAnimal has been in animal like fights.

The next 12 years flew by with the ninja now fighting out of Metro MMA. He Has made his opponents shed tons of blood while he himself spilled over pints of his.

This back n forth slugfest with flying knees and ultimately a submission win for Silva

In the 3rd.Tough fight as both OG's were really in need of a win. Each planning on turning things around at each others expense.

Take it back some to March 6th 2021.Acard stacked filled with many FuryFC big names. Names that deserve to be inducted into a HOF of there own.(To bad FFC doesn't have one. Which they should)

Especially with fights like Jacob Silva vs C.J Vergara Fury 44.The fight started with an intense face off and no glove touch.

LilAnimal exploded from the first second with a flying knee and a good left hook that sits C.J.Tide would keep turning back n forth making a good fight into a fotn before our eyes.Then like every great scrap it transforms into a real classic fight.

Since then Silva has gone 3-4 and has found himself investing in outside ventures for when that day indeed comes. However it won't be today as that championship just sits there vacant with no owner. The lilAnimal knows what he has to do.

Credit to Hosanna Rull for the awesome pictures I used for the article.

Mini Ninja Series

Makayla Da Cheetah

She puts in her 8hrs 5 days out the week at school like every other kid. However it's what ten year old Makayla does with her time after the school bell rings that makes the little phnom so exceptional.

Makayla has been doing jujitsu these last 2 years consistently and it's been showing.The disciplined, responsible and talented little lady was introduced to the sport by her dad.Apurple belt himself, who started teaching her since she was 4.

These last two years she's been on another level, competing against bigger heavier kids. Even competing in all boys competitions. "This is when I got my battle name Cheetah" My dad gave it to me because he says just like a cheetah Im both fast and aggressive and I pounce on my competition like a cheetah does its prey. So I liked the name."

7 months ago she joined the fast rising super team created by seventeen year old jujitsu wizard J.R Caballero.The team is known asThe Exception Squad. Besides J.R's own brother, Makayla was the first student to join and has evolved at a scary rate.

Eagerly awaiting to take on a super fight to show her evolution. Makayla has 2 victories at NAGA where she took first place for two impressive subs.Arnc and a triangle choke.

The Cheetah is such a baddie that she goes up against bigger heavier competition. Many of them boys. In fact she's competed in all boy competitions. Catching one opponent with a beautiful tight armbar in under 2 minutes. It looked so awesome so technical it would have made the armbar queen herself Rowdy Ronda Rousey so jealous.

So keep an eye out for the Cheetah in and around SanAntonio tournaments for the next decade plus.

Miss Makayla would like to shout out her Dad who drives her to the gym that has become a second home and a second family