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New Mexico’s #1 Sports Magazine February 2014

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New Mexico’s #1 Sports Magazine February 2014

Hello ABQ Sports fans,

ABQ Sports magazine P.O.Box 15981 • Rio Rancho, NM 87174 1.855.567.SPORT (7678) abqsportsmag.com Publisher

ew Mexico athletes are shining brighter than ever, and we have a rundown of the stories you don’t want to miss.

Major League Soccer comes calling for ALL of the male soccer seniors at the University of New Mexico, you’ll meet them and learn where they are going.

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A local football player will represent the United States at the International Bowl – but he’s not a college athlete. He hails from Rio Rancho High School, complete details inside.

Managing Editor Sumiko Corley Sumiko@abqsportsmag.com

6 2014 Joe Vivian Classic 10 Lenny Lovato retires 14 aps metro championships

APS has crowned its Metro Champions, a rundown of those teams and their coaches. Director of Sales

Hockey, ice-skating and the New Mexico coaches who have been selected as the best in the state.

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You’ll meet one of the best volleyball coaches in the nation in Cleveland’s Brian Ainsworth.

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A legend in New Mexico wrestling retires from coaching, Trula Howe has his story.

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And Arnie Leshin brings us the story of Hall of Famer Ralph Kiner. Brian Carlos Montoya Boysen

That, and so much more, in the February edition of ABQ Sports!

Carlos Montoya

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On the Cover

Special thanks goes to Anthony Griego, MOJI Photography. Front cover featuring the four UNM seniors recently drafted to the 2014 Major League Soccer (MLS) COACH OF Superdraft. THE YEAR MARIO TRUJILLO

New Mexico’s #1 Sports Magazine February 2014

Daniel Anthony Elliot David Martinez Griego Madriss Benyak Contributing Writers ATHLETES OF THE MONTH

UNM’S CALDERON, KAFARI, LISCH, VENTER

NEW MEXICO AT THE PRO BOWL

ALBUQUERQUE SOL F.C.

2014 MISS

NEW MEXICO USA

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Chris Martinez

Trula Howe

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Cardio 18 Albuquerque sol f.c. stadium 20 figure skating 22 la cueva hockey 28 cameron bairstow -top 25 34 2013 coaches of the year 36 return of the warrior

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ABQ Sports is a monthly magazine dedicated to covering all aspects of the Albuquerque and surrounding communities scene. We accept stories and photos for consideration. Email: carlos@abqsportsmag.com All contents of this magazine are copyrighted by ABQ Sports Magazine, all rights reserved. Reproduction of any articles, advertisement or material from this issue is forbidden without permission of the publisher.

e o J 4 1 20 n a i v Vi ssic Cla BY: SUMIKO CORLEY

he Joe Vivian Classic is considered the toughest wrestling event of the season in New Mexico, including the state championship – more than 30 schools competing and no division of teams based on class (5A, 4A, 3A). To win, you must be the best in your weight class in ALL divisions. The two-day event requires top performances on day one in order to advance to day two. Four wrestlers at each weight are awarded a medal. You win here, you are among the best of the best. Wrestlers produced some exceptional matches on the mat at this annual event, held at Cibola High School this year. What was notable about the 2014 event was the tremendous turnout from schools in northern New Mexico, namely Robertson, Capital and St. Michael’s. Rio Rancho earned first place with 177 points, Rio Grande finished 2nd with 167.50, Manzano rounded out the top three with an even 142.

2014 Joe Vivian Classic Individual Results: 106 Orion Gutierrez Rio Rancho High School 113 Jose Tapia Capital High School 120 Logan Gonzales Eldorado High School 126 Santiago Salazar Rio Rancho High School 132 Rico Montoya Roberston High School 138 Orlando Gutierrez Rio Rancho High School 145 Isaiah Anaya Capital High School 152 Ernesto Salvidrez Capital High School 160 Koery Windham St. Michael’s High School 170 Logan Wolfel Rio Grande High School 182 Leo Maestas Rio Grande High School 195 Christopher Collins Manzano High School 220 Mike Budick Volcano Vista High School HWT James Romero Atrisco Heritage Academy High School

Vivian Special Recognition: Jose Tapia, Most Outstanding Wrestler, Lower Weights Rico Montoya, Most Outstanding Wrestler, Middle Weights Mike Budick, Most Outstanding Wrestler, Upper Weights

NEW MEXICO’S PREMIER ARCHERY SHOP Senior Koery Windham of St. Michaels’s, previously featured in a past issue of ABQ Sports, is a 4-time state champion at 160. This is his first win at this meet in a 5-2 decision against junior Miguel Barreras of Rio Rancho. Barreras is a multi-sport athlete sidelined during the football season due to a knee injury, this is his first meet of this season. Both these young men are ranked by Ziawrestlers. com as the best wrestlers in the state at their grade level. The two day event wrapped up with three outstanding performances – pins by Christopher Collins (195, Manzano), Mike Budick (220, Volcano Vista) and James Romero (HWT, Atrisco Heritage). This event is named for New Mexico athlete and coach Joe Vivian, a multi-sport athlete at Albuquerque High School and the University of New Mexico. His 37-year coaching career produced three wrestling state championship teams, 31 individual state champions and 9 All-Americans. He is the recipient of a National Wrestling Coach of the Year award, a Ralph Bowyer Coaching for Character award and holds membership in the New Mexico High School Coaches Association Hall of Honor and the Albuquerque Sports Hall of Fame.

2014 Top Wrestlers in the State* 132 Richard (Rico) Montoya (Robertson) 160 Koery Windham (St. Michael’s) 160 Miguel Barreras (Rio Rancho) 120 Dylan Udero (Las Cruces) 113 Joe Tapia (Capital High)

2013-14 Individual Midseason Rankings* ZW 2013 Midseason Who’s #1

106 – Noah Mirabal (Cleveland) 113 – Jose Tapia (Capital) 120 – Dylan Udero (Las Cruces) 126 – Jacob Palmgren (Piedra Vista) 132 – Richard Montoya (Robertson) 138 – Anthony Juckes (Piedra Vista) 145 – Isaiah Anaya (Capital) 152 – Ernesto Salvidrez (Capital) 160 – Korey Windham (St. Michael’s) 170 – Logan Wolfel (Rio Grande) 182 – Leo Maestas (Rio Grande) 195 – Chris Collins (Manzano) 220 – Mike Budick (Volcano Vista) HWT – Eric Lopez (Gadsden)

2013-14 Team Midseason Rankings* Midseason Rankings of Top Teams – All Divisions

#1 – Piedra Vista #2 – Rio Rancho #3 – Rio Grande #4 – Cleveland #5 – Capital

* Rankings are courtesy ZiaWrestler.com 6 February 2014

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he might of the Rams wrestling team reigned supreme at the 2014 Joe Vivian Classic held at Cibola High School – it’s regarded as the toughest event of the year. Rio Rancho edged out Rio Grande to capture first place with a score of 177.00 points. “Winning the Joe Vivian is very significant for our team,” says Rio Rancho head wrestling coach Mike Santos. “This really builds their confidence up, as we go into the most important part of our season. This win was really special we had contributors from every weight class. This was a true team effort. Our coaching staff was really proud of their performance.”

Rio Rancho is home to three individual Vivian champions as well: Orion Gutierrez (106), Santiago Salazar (126) and Orlando Gutierrez (138). “The Joe Vivian is exciting because it brings teams from all the different classes together so that they can compete against each other,” says Santos. “The level of wrestling in New Mexico is getting tougher and tougher every year. Bringing all the teams together in one, well organized event is great for the state but also helps our team see who will be competing for a state championship.”

Rio Rancho’s Vivian Classic Roster: 106 Orion Gutierrez

Photos: Carl Jamison/Talon Studio

113 Javier Salazar 120 Kyler Gonzales 126 Santiago Salazar 132 Ryan Rochford 138 Orlando Gutierrez Santiago Salazar

145 Kirk Holloway 152 Estevan Pakozdi 160 Miguel Barreras 170 Jordan Lara

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Lenny Lovato Retires After 27 Years By: Trula Howe

The new head wrestling coach, Lovato’s nephew Mike, got together with fellow WMHS faculty member Steve Medina to figure out how to properly celebrate nearly three decades of coaching. It occurred to them to put together an homage to the wrestling veteran at the Mustangs’ last home dual. They sent word out to “PACK THE GYM!” The stands at the West Mesa High School gym were overflowing with fans, including former and current students, as well as all of the school’s previous wrestling coaches: Able McBride (1966-1972), Tony Gallegos (1973-1979) and Joey Montano (1980-1986). Each gave words of praise for his many accomplishments and the impact he has had at the school over the years. Photos: David Friedlander

state.

he longest running term a wrestling coach has served at West Mesa High School has come to an end. Lenny Lovato has retired from prep wrestling. He has arguably done more for his sport than any other high school sports coach in the

“Lenny is truly one of the best wrestlers,” says Gallegos, “that not just this town, but this state has ever had.” McBride noted that the very first sport trophy brought home to West Mesa belongs to wrestling.

With an illustrious career full of highly-notable achievements, “I knew when I hired him,” says Montano, “that there were great Lovato has left behind a legacy that will endure for generations- not things ahead, and you can see they happened.” only did he coach for 27 years, but he also has these claims to fame: He was the New Mexico State Champion in 1978 (138lb). Lovato’s nephew took the microphone to acknowledge the Lovato coached the impact his predecessor Mustangs to four team has had on the “Lenny is the man behind the scenes… a leader in titles, three runner-up community. titles, three third-place developing athletes, not only to become champions in titles and eight district “When I think of the championships. He the ring, cage, and mat, BUT CHAMPIONS IN LIFE!” throw-downs that have produced 41 NM state in this gym,” – Genieve Sanchez, amateur fighter, fitness model happened champions, three says Mike Lovato, “I high school national get chills in my bones. champions, 14 high If they tried to make school All-Americans and seven collegiate All-Americans. Lovato a banner to hang here in this gym, of all of the people that he has was awarded Coach of the Year four times and inducted into the saved or pointed in the right direction, it could not fit on the wall. I NM Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2009. hope I can do the good job he has done. From a young age, I always knew what I wanted to do. Now, thanks to my father and Lenny, I’m “If it wasn’t for Coach Lenny,” says professional MMA fighter, exactly what I wanted to be.” UFC/WEC veteran and Legacy fighter, Damacio Page, “a lot of young men would have been ‘part of the system’. Instead, he made Ever gracious, Lenny Lovato stood up to express his thanks and them into young, respectable men of the community, and they appreciation as he passed the coaching baton to his nephew. became champions at heart.”

10 February 2014

“Why did I retire? It’s not because I don’t have the passion anymore,” says Lovato. “I still have the fire that I did from the first day I started coaching! However, throughout the years, things and people change. When I saw that I could not change anymore, I stepped down and let another take over. And how lucky we are now to have Coach Mike! I see myself in him at that age doing the same thing. Today I can say, as Lou Gehrig said (in 1939), that I’m the luckiest man on the face of the earth.” West Mesa faced Valley on the mat for the last home competition of the season directly after the announcement. Inspired by Lovato’s legacy, Mustang pride was evident as they went on to outscore the Vikings by more than double, with an overall team score 51-24: a fitting final home duel for the seniors on the West Mesa wrestling team.

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“Lenny is a great coach, leader and a selfless person,” says Professional MMA figher Russell Wilson, and assistant coach of the Mustangs. “He has always been there to help me if I ever needed him, as well as anybody else who needs help, and he does not expect anything in return. He was a great mentor to myself and many others in the wrestling community, even if they were not on his team. He would never turn away anybody that needs help, even if they do not deserve it. He has a great heart and great compassion.” As for what Lovato, what will he do now? He’ll continue doing what he does best: coaching and training. But this time he’s doing it at his own business, Lovato Total Fitness. “Coach Lenny is THE Best coach I have ever worked with in my 14-year MMA career, says professional MMA fighter and BJJ coach Josh Lanier. “His knowledge of wrestling is unparalleled, and he has a way of coaching and breaking down his techniques so everyone can understand it, regardless of their expertise or skill level. He will bring out a side of you that you did not know you had, and he can motivate you with a simple look. Not only is he my coach, but he has become one of my best friends, and I am proud to call him family.” This much-beloved coach will continue doing what has endeared him to generations of athletes – reaching out to less fortunate youth, giving them hope and a way out of trouble. “I’m a single mom with three kids,” says Karen Salas. “Throughout my kids’ rough times in wrestling for APS (but not for Lenny) he has always made himself available for my boys, to help them wrestle, to give them advice to be a great mentor and to me he is the greatest role model for young people. He is always positive, always there for the kids. I enjoy him; he is truly a great human. Thank you, Lenny for always looking out for Kale and Jacob.” abqsportsmag.com • 11

APS METRO WRESTLING

DATA

CHAMPIONSHIPS

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BY: SUMIKO CORLEY io Grande High School took home top honors as the middleweights turned out some decisive wins. Logan Wofel (170) pulled out a 5-0 defeat of a young man well know in wrestling, as well as football – Rio Rancho’s Jordan Lara. Lara came into this event the top seed and for Wofel, it was a statement win over the athlete he has been working to beat since last year’s state championship.

SPECIALISTS

220’s Vivian winner Mike Budick – Volcano Vista’s triple threat in track & field, football and wrestling - edged out Valley’s Seth Mello in 1:18.

MARTY SAIZ

It was comeback time for Rio Rancho’s Miguel Barreras, a fine all-around athlete sidelined during the 2013 football season with a knee injury. Little contest for Barreras (160), evidenced by a 9-2 win over Nathan Corrigan of Atrisco Heritage Academy.

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Team Standings: 1. Rio Grande High School 189 points 2. Rio Rancho High School 164.5 points 3. Cleveland High School 145 points

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Individual Matches: 106 Noah Mirabal, Cleveland 113 Javier Salazar, Rio Rancho 120 Logan Gonzales, Eldorado 126 Santiago Salazar, Rio Rancho 138 Orlando Gutierrez, Rio Rancho 145 Matias Sainz, Rio Grande 152 Kyle Snelling, La Cueva 160 Miguel Barreras, Rio Rancho 170 Logan Wofel, Rio Grande 182 Leo Maestas, Rio Grande 195 Chris Collins, Manzano 220 Mike Budick, Volcano Vista 285 James Romero, Atrisco Heritage Academy

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Rio Rancho’s Orlando Gutierrez , fresh off his win at Vivian, is laying claim as the man to beat at 138 headed into districts, defeating Rio Grande’s Clayton Arellano 201 in double overtime.

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ALBUQUERQUE PUBLIC SCHOOLS METRO CHAMPIONSHIPS PHOTOS: MOJI Photography BY: SUMIKO CORLEY

hey swam, danced, dribbled and cheered their way to victory in the one of the city’s biggest competitions of the year. The finest area athletes have spent months balancing their schoolwork with training, putting in early and after-school hours in preparation of their respective state championships this spring. Many of these athletes have spent the majority of their lives dedicated to their sport. The APS Metro Championships are an indicator of their work thus far, and a revelation of what skills need to be honed in order for them to lay claim to best in the state.

2013-2014

APS METRO DANCE CHAMPIONS Valley High School Sandra Naranjo, head coach

APS METRO CHEER CHAMPIONS La Cueva High School Brandy Stratton, head coach

APS METRO GIRLS BASKETBALL CHAMPIONS Eldorado High School Mike Huston, head coach

APS METRO GIRLS SWIMMING & DIVING CHAMPIONS Eldorado High School Quint Seckler, head coach

APS METRO BOYS SWIMMING & DIVING CHAMPIONS La Cueva High School Vince Sanchez, head coach

PHOTOS: MOJI Photography

APS METRO BOYS BASKETBALL CHAMPIONS Valley High School Joe Coleman, head coach

PHOTOS: MOJI Photography

New Mexico’s ODP BY: SUMIKO CORLEY

Olympic Development Program

he Olympic Development Program. Any club soccer player in this state knows that selection for ODP means they’ve earned entry into an exclusive club – the best youth soccer players in New Mexico.

“ODP aims to identify the best players and put them on one team,” says NM ODP director Heather Dyche. “The players that make that team have to learn how to highlight their own individual abilities in pressure situations. At each level they are constantly trying out for the next team. The large majority of players are told they are not good enough at some stage, Very few make a national team. Learning how to respond to failure and work harder for what you want is a valuable lesson for the players involved.” Established in 1997, ODP is a player identification and development program providing higher levels of training, playing and competition than what’s available through recreation or club leagues. “It provides age-eligible players an opportunity to represent New Mexico at the US Youth Soccer Region IV level and beyond,” says Erin Ingersoll of the New Mexico Youth Soccer Association (NMYSA). OPD player development events are intended to complement training at the club level. “ODP is an identification program for future US National Team players,” says Dyche. “When players are invited to advance through the levels, at every stage they play against better and more elite players. Being exposed to an environment where you are being pushed and training with the best, you grow as a player. The US elite players have all come through ODP. Mia Hamm, Abby Wambach, Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey, Alex Morgan etc.” New Mexico has an ODP training pool of approximately 320 players. The teams are designated by birth year: 19972001. The staff consists of more than 28 head and assistant coaches, plus apprentices. They come from all over the southwest, including New Mexico State University, Ft. Lewis College in Durango, Colorado Mesa College in Grand Junction and the University of the Southwest in Hobbs. Ingersoll says ODP provides training from nationally licensed coaches beyond what’s available at the club level.

16 February 2014

“Exposure to regional and national coaches as well as college coaches,” says Ingersoll, “the opportunity to play and train with the best players in their age group, possible travel.” The initial cost to the player’s family ranges from $210$260.00, depending on age. For that, they receive eight training sessions plus the possibility of travel to Regionals and the ODP camps – the boys’ camp is in McMinnville, Oregon, the girls at Cal Poly in California. Those come at an additional cost. “You learn how to interact with other people, “ says 4-year ODP veteran Tatiana Limon, “learn how to make quick friends so you can learn to be more comfortable with other people. It’s helped me get out of my comfort zone and help me think beyond the ordinary one pass, it’s helped me see and think four passes ahead.” The ODP season begins in early fall with the Training and Identification Opportunities (TIO’s).

“These are available in various cities around the state,” says Ingersoll, “and are the process by which players are identified to be invited to the ODP pool training as well as provides a free ODP training session. Once all of the TIOs have concluded a list of those player who are identified is posted on our website and the ODP pool trainings begin in December.” Does ODP make a difference? Here are some of the big names to come through New Mexico ODP: Devon Sandoval (Real Salt Lake), Edgar Castillo (Club Tijuana, Mexico and US Men’s National Team) and Ben Spencer (Molde FC, Norway), plus countless collegiate players. “I’ve learned to adjust to the different styles of play,” says Lexi Baca, who’s earned an ODP spot for the past three years. “In college you play with really amazing players and in ODP they’re the top players in the state, playing with the best and against the best makes me a better player.” You can find more information on ODP at www.NMYSA.net * Available team pictures

Photos: COURTESY ODP Parents

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Cleveland High junior excels in classroom and on the ice

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“But when Paige was about 4, we were driving her brother Seth to kindergarten along with a young girl in our carpool, and that young girl actually got Paige interested in ice skating.”

PHOTOS: COURTESY, DARCY MASCARENAS

o figure.

It was a little decision that young Paige Mascarenas made. It was running in cross country and track and field or taking to the ice as a figure skater. No doubt ice skating is nice skating unless you fall, but it didn’t matter to Mascarenas when she made her choice at the age of 8 to remain with coach Mandy Edwards. “I love it”, says Mascarenas, now a junior at Rio Rancho’s Cleveland High School. “I generally do four competitions a year and practice six days a week in Santa Fe for about two hours each time I’m there.” At school, she’s a part of the student government (STUGO) that takes care of all that goes on at the campus, such as dances, blood drives, and currently she’s taking advanced classes, which she says is always difficult to keep up with because of her time spent on the ice. Upon graduation from high school, it will be more figure skating for Mascarenas. 20 February 2014

“I plan to try out for a skating show,” she says, “and most likely with Disney on Ice. After that, I plan to be at University of New Mexico and study either to become a chiropractor or a real estate agent, but I’m still deciding.”

Early on, Paige gave running a try, especially the distance races, but soon became more interested in the ice rink. Her first and only coach has been Edwards, from the age of 4 until now.

Her dad, Seth, is a retired Santa Fe police lieutenant, while Paige is often at the Genovea Chavez Community Center in the state capital working out on the regulation hockey rink.

Prior to that, she took a liking to ballet when she was only 3. But then traded this in for running and ice skating.

“There are 20 skaters testing,” says GCCC rink manger Tom Miller, “and they are from Santa Fe, Albuquerque and El Paso. Paige is here often and works really hard at improving.” In March, the novice free skate will be contested at the GCCC, Paige included, and it will contain the 6th out of 8th free skate tests. “Im hoping for a better effort this time,” she says, “I didn’t do that well at the competition in January.” Fom March 13-16 the Desert Ice Figure Skating Club, with Paige’s mom, Darcy as its current president, heads for Denver for the initial competition of the season. “My parents were coaches at the elementary school I attended” says Paige, but they were more into track.” Which is why this is all new to Darcy. “The reason it’s all new to me in a way,” says Darcy, “is because my husband and I met in high school (West Mesa) and we were cross country and track and field athletes, never ice skaters.

“When I was younger”, she says, “I would watch figure skating on TV, but I haven’t now because of my busy schedule.” She practices about two hours daily on the ice. She carries a 3.8 grade-point-average in the class room, Her likings are for English, history, biology, and Spanish. Her mom is a school teacher at St. Thomas Aquinas in Rio Rancho, teaching kindergarten to eighth grade. Her brother, Seth, is a freshman at Central New Mexico Community College in Albuquerque who competed in football and baseball for the Storm, and her dad just goes with the flow. Paige’s hobbies? How about figure skating?

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La Cueva Hockey

TRAPPING the Competition BY: SUMIKO CORLEY

Rio Rancho Football Player Represents United States in Bowl Game BY: SUMIKO CORLEY

his 6-foot-1 Rio Rancho High School running back and wide receiver has done what no other New Mexico football player has accomplished this year – earned a spot playing in a bowl game.

ce hockey is not a sport we hear about a lot, at least not in New Mexico high school athletics. The 13 boys of La Cueva’s team are working to change that. The number one ranked prep team in the state is fine-tuning their skills – hooking, dashing and lighting the lamp. Their ultimate goal - a state championship win.

Londyn Craft is a 15-year old sophomore who also plays cornerback. His passion for the sport has earned him a wide-receiver position on the U.S. Team set to play Canada in the International Bowl at the University of Texas-Arlington’s Maverick Stadium in early February.

So far this season the Bears stand at eight wins, five losses and one tie. They’ve defeated the likes of St. Pius, Cibola, Santa Fe, Taos and Los Alamos. The New Mexico Interscholastic Ice Hockey League (NMIIHL) consists of nine high school teams. La Cueva head hockey coach Joe Farr says the league, for the most part, has little association with the NMAA. Two Texas teams, Coronado and Franklin, have a special arrangement to play in the NM league but are not eligible to play for the state championship.

“Londyn is very talented,” says Rio Rancho head football coach David Howes, “positive, fast, and has a physical build that is rare in high school.”

“It’s a phenomenal sport,” says Farr. “It requires speed and agility (on skate blades an eighth of inch wide no less), cardiovascular endurance, and in my opinion it’s a thinking man’s game. An example of that is Wayne Gretzky, one of the all time hockey greats (they called him the Great One for a reason). He was by far not the biggest or strongest player on the ice, but what made him special is how he understood the constant game of chess going on at a rapid rate of speed.”

“Over 1,000 kids participated in the Regional Camps to get to the summer camp and only 150 kids were selected,” says mother Endia Craft. “Then he received a letter in August 2013 stating that he made the 53-man roster out of the 150, to be a member of the USA National Football Team.”

Craft attended a regional development camp last year. That led to an offer to participate in the USA Football Summer Development Team at the University of MassachusettsDartmouth last summer.

USA Football sponsors the International Bowl. Craft’s confirmation letter stated “As a member of the National Team, you will have the unique opportunity to serve as an ambassador of the sport. Not only will you be representing your country, but you will be helping to facilitate the international growth of football as well.”

There are two types of teams within this league – Pure and Composite. Pure, being made up of full-time students attending the same high school or full-time students who are eligible to play sanctioned varsity high school sports at that school per NMAA rules. A Composite team is made up of athletes from schools that do not have pure teams. So why doesn’t every New Mexico high school have a hockey team? Farr seems to think the number one reason is that people just don’t know about it.

Craft says he’s learned some valuable lessons from Coach Howes – to play “relentless, hard and fast”– to train hard and be a team player. Those lessons helped him get to this level.

“It’s a very expensive sport compared to sports such as football, soccer, baseball or basketball,” says Farr. “They don’t have to pay $250/hour for ice time. Also due to the number of teams and how spread out they are, it requires travel and sometimes hotel nights out of town and there are not any pro or semi pro teams that call New Mexico home. When the Scorpions played, it seemed like the popularity rose for a few years.” These boys will letter for La Cueva. The big LC. Funny thing is, a few of the boys who will earn the LC actually attend different schools - like Eldorado, Sandia and a few private and charter schools. These fellows say they’ll have earned their hockey team letter, and they’ll wear it proudly. On their jackets from a different school. How is this possible? Farr says there’s a provision for it under NMIIHL’s Rules & Regulations 3:N 1-2 which specifies criteria for a composite team. For students in public, charter and home school, players are assigned to a composite team that’s been established within the public school district in which they reside, established for all schools without their own team or within the next closest public school district. Private school students have a slightly different criteria order when it comes to placement since they are not eligible to play for a Pure Public School team. 22 February 2014

“I feel great,” says Craft, “about being selected to represent my country and my state. I’m really excited to compete against great players and learn from great coaches. I hope to learn more about the game of football and to become a student of the game.” PHOTOS: DANIEL MARTINEZ of DnL Photography “We are a very complete team this year,” says assistant coach Walter Ramazzini. “A strong defense that allows our offense to produce…we have some motivated veterans who provide leadership for some talented underclassmen. My goal is to compete in every game we play and stay out of the box. Teams that play us will have to work very hard to get out of their own zone.” Farr and Ramazzini are joined by another assistant coach, Tim Minton, in the quest for a state championship. La Cueva is in the top spot right now, and with no seniors they’re looking to maintain a dominant position for the foreseeable future. State championship: early March, and ABQ Sports will be bringing you complete coverage.

He has big plans for his future. “Get a D1 football scholarship, make it to the NFL, one day be an ESPN analyst or run by own business.” He appears to have the work ethic and athletic talent to make it happen – voted MVP - running back at FBU (Football University), a football camp in Tempe Arizona. He was also invited to attend FBU’s Top Gun – an invitation-only event for elite athletes – run by the same folks who put on the US Army All-American Bowl. He carries a 3.0 GPA.

PHOTOS: COURTESY, CRAFT FAMILY “He is a special person with tremendous potential,” says Howes. “The sky is the limit with this student-athlete if he puts his mind to it. I am proud of his accomplishments and look forward to seeing the heights he can reach.” Howes says Craft will be given the opportunity to fight for a varsity spot for the Rams this fall. Craft was sidelined during the 2013 season with a broken ankle that occurred during an All-Star game. He dislocated his wrist during the first practice he attended after recovering from the ankle injury. “This allowed Londyn to take time for his joints/bones to catch up to his fast growth in height,” says Howes. “He spent many hours training and rehabbing these injuries and this may have actually helped him.” USA Football is sponsoring six games between the U.S. National Teams and Football Canada (levels under-19 through under-15), in what they’ve dubbed “football’s greatest annual international competition”.

“Put God first and always believe in myself. No matter how bad things seem continue to believe and work hard.” – Londyn Craft

s e t e l h t a he of t

month BY: SUMIKO

CORLEY

our University of New Mexico soccer players are one step closer to realizing their dreams of a professional career. These seniors were just drafted during the 2014 Major League Soccer (MLS) SuperDraft.

“Being drafted by an MLS team,” says head UNM soccer coach Jeremy Fishbein, “shows that there is a sincere interest in signing the player to a professional contract. The MLS is the highest level of professional soccer in the USA and the 19 MLS teams provide the greatest opportunity for players residing in the USA. Players drafted are brought into training camp and are provide with a world-class environment. All expenses are covered and they are given a per diem until they are either signed to a full contract or are released. Some players sign a guaranteed contract prior to the draft or training camp. Kudos also go to the University of New Mexico, one of just four programs nationwide to have four draftees in this year’s MLS Draft. Wake Forest, California and Akron also had four selections. This ties the Lobos’ program record for the most MLS selections in a given year. The last time this occurred was in 2006 – four Lobos were picked up after the team’s run to the 2005 national championship.

PHOTOS: COURTESY, UNM ATHLETIC COMMUNCATIONS

“Lobo Soccer is about Excellence,” says Fishbein. “Our players learn how to be leaders, vital members of a team and active participants in their community. We take great pride in playing an attractive and skillful style of soccer that helps transition into the professional game. Our players expect to win and bring this mentality to their respective professional teams.” (*Courtesy UNM Athletics)

michael calderon This 5-8, 155 pound 25-year old was key to the Lobos’ two appearances at the NCAA Divison I Men’s Soccer Tournament.

his Costa Rican midfielder is heading to the Vancouver Whitecaps FC training camp, the third round, 64th pick. He’s spent two seasons with the Lobos, starting his collegiate career at Fairleigh Dickenson University. He’s recorded 10 goals and 13 assists during his pair of years at UNM. “Michael Calderon is a maestro into the midfield,” says Fishbein. “Wonderful vision and deceptively explosive. The Vancouver Whitecaps love his attacking ability and creativity. The challenge for Michael will be to gain a roster spot as a senior international player, as he is a citizen of Costa Rica. He will be competing for a position against players from all over the world.”

Calderon’s Senior Stats* All-NCAA Tournament Team selection… College Soccer News Second Team All-American… First Team NSCAA All-Midwest Region… Voted to College Soccer News and TopDrawerSoccer’s National Team of the Week on six different occasions… First Team All-Conference USA selection… Finished second on team in goals (six) and assists (five)… Opened season with a bang with two goals and one assist in 7-2 win over Villanova (8-3013) in season opener… Recorded a pair of assists in Sweet 16 victory over Penn State (12-1-13)… Tallied at least one point in final three regular season matches… In two post seasons with New Mexico, records one goal and five assists in six NCAA Tournament matches.

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Kyle Venter T

his 6-foot-3 redshirt defender was drafted as the 23rd overall pick during the second round on day one by the LA Galaxy.

“My initial thoughts about being selected,” says Venter, “was really just absolute excitement… I just kept telling myself that everything happens for a reason, and that I would end up where I was suppose to be…I think the most exciting part about being picked by the LA Galaxy is the culture and expectations that exist here at the club. This club is about making each other better every day and winning championships. Another plus is getting the opportunity to learn and play with the likes of Landon Donovan, Robbie Keane, Omar Gonzalez, etc, having a coach like Bruce Arena and an organization like this can only help you get better.” Venter was a four-year starter and ended a muchdecorated college career as UNM’s all-time leader in minutes played. “Kyle Venter is a three time All-American,” says Fishbein, “who also received numerous academic awards on the national level. A true leader who made everyone better on a daily basis. He will be a great addition to the LA Galaxy back line.”

Venter’s Senior Stats* NSCAA Second Team All-American… College Soccer News Second Team All-American… Second Team Soccer America All-American… Became program’s first ever three-time AllAmerican… MAC Hermann Trophy Semifinalist… NSCAA First Team All-Midwest Region… Voted to TopDrawerSoccer’s Top XI Team for the 2013 season… Conference USA Most Valuable Player… C-USA Defensive Player of the Year… First

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“My experience at UNM could not have prepared me for this milestone any better,” says Venter. “Mainly, my time at UNM has given me an unshakable confidence in myself and my abilities. I can easily say that the credit for that goes to the coaching staff there at UNM, as well as my drive to continuously get better at every aspect of life. I can honestly say that no matter what comes my way in the future, I am fully prepared in every way because of my time and experiences at UNM.”

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michael michael kafari lisch T march into the Final Four of the NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer Tournament.

“The most exciting part for me,” says Kafari, “was receiving the phone call from the head coach and seeing how excited he was to have me as a part of their program. I think my experience at UNM set me up more than anything to reach this milestone. The program has been very successful in the past and I do not think I would be where I am today without all my teammates, the coaching staff, and the community.”

Whitecaps FC head coach Carl Robinson says he’s exited to get Kafari and fellow Lobo Michael Calderon, calling them “talented players”. his midfielder hails from Accra, Ghana. He holds a U.S. passport, which grants him MLS domestic player status. This 51st pick in the third round is joining Calderone at the Whitecaps FC.

Kafari’s Senior Stats:

“Michael Kafari was an anchor in our midfield,” says Fishbein, “and grew as a player throughout the season. He has the ability to play at a very high level and will battle to play for the Vancouver Whitecaps this season. A highly intelligent and athletic midfielder with the ability to change the game.” Kafari spent all four years with the Lobos, appearing in 82 matches – more than 6,500 minutes with UNM. He was instrumental in helping the Lobos defense during their

NSCAA All-Midwest Region Third Team… Third Team All-Conference USA selection… Part of a Lobo defense that recorded eleven shutouts for season… Logged 1,835 minutes over 21 starts in the midfield, which was a career high in minutes played… Tallied 15 shots with four on goal… Leaves programs with 58 career wins. “For young players I will say dream big,” says Kafari, “and always follow your dreams but remain focused on your goal. Also be very grateful for the opportunities you receive because not very many have the chance to follow your dream.

“When players are drafted from our program, it is a testament to the daily environment they play in. Competition is always fierce and every player on the team pushes each other to play at the highest level. The team culture develops players. Everyone takes great pride when teammates go on to professional soccer. Our players are just as committed to academic excellence and to obtaining their degree. The team GPA for the fall semester was 3.40 and everyone was very involved in the community as well. Well- rounded and humble young men who love to represent the State of New Mexico.” – Jeremy Fishbein, UNM soccer coach

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his 6-4, 175 pound goalkeeper joined UNM in 2013 as a graduate student in sports administration, posting a record of 14-6-2 and eleven shutouts. This Texas native is headed home, picked up during the third draft on day two as the 54th pick. “The most exciting aspect of being picked up by the Houston Dynamo,” says Lisch, “is the chance to become part of great organization, while being able to play close to home. I’m very excited to get an opportunity to continue playing soccer past college at the next level. I could not have asked for a better and more successful organization to draft me. I’m really looking forward to developing further as a player everyday and learning from/working with the other keepers and the coaching staff.” Lisch transferred to UNM after four years with Wake Forest University. “Michael made a significant impact in goal for us,” says Fishbein, “and displayed the skills sought after by professional clubs. He will be a great addition to the already strong goalkeeping corps of the Houston Dynamo.” Lisch credits coaches Fishbein, Paul Sounders, Brandon Moss and Savva Biller for improving his goalkeeping skills. He says support from everyone from the front office to the fans helped all of the Lobos play their best.

His advice to youngsters: “I would say they would have to abide by three things: commitment, perseverance, and being a good teammate. Commitment to the sport means making the most of every practice by coming focused and not just going through the motions. It means being willing to stay after practice and work

on shooting/dribbling/shot blocking/etc. It means being willing to make the necessary sacrifices, by limiting things such as parties or playing computer games in order to get fitter and better. Perseverance is important because in your career of soccer you will have to face many failures from bad games, mistakes, and plays you just wish you could have back. Soccer is a game of mistakes, but you have to be able to get up and go again and again. If you ever have set backs or someone tells you that you are not good enough, you have to keep to on fighting until you surpass that setback. Lastly, being a good teammate is one of the most important lessons that I have learned through college. Our success this year in reaching the Final Four was due to how good and close the team was in the locker room and outside of it. Any of my Lobo teammates would have dropped whatever they were doing in order to help another teammate out. This was the key to our success this year. When players care more about the team than themselves, good things happen to the team and consequentially the player. There is no better proof than what has occurred this year by all four of the seniors being drafted to the MLS.”

Lisch’s Senior (graduate student) Stats* All-Conference USA Third Team member… Led C-USA with eleven shutouts while finishing second in GAA (0.84). Recorded three shutouts in the NCAA Tournament, which included a scoreless streak of 317 minutes versus George Mason, Penn State, Washington and Notre Dame. His 14 wins, eleven shutouts and 0.84 GAA all rank in the top ten for a season in program history with the eleven clean sheets tying for third most in a season… Tallied a season and career high seven saves in team’s 2-0 win at Old Dominion (11-2-13).

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Senior University of New Mexico forward Cameron Bairstow has been named to the list – the only Mountain West player to receive the honor, and one of just five selected from the Mountain West and Pacific zones. Interestingly, Bairstow was not named to the Top 50 list but now finds himself a contender for the official voting ballot for the big award. “He has a quick first step,” says KRQE sports director and anchor Van Tate. “He knows how to square up against his opponent and create separation and a shot in the paint. He is relentless. He never stops. He is a guy who knows how to close out a game. He is consistent.”

STATS

UNM athletics reports that this season “Bairstow is averaging 20.3 points per game, shooting .564 from the field. He is second on the team in rebounding at 7.0, second in blocks with 26, and tied for second in assists (35) and steals (14). Bairstow entered the season having never scored more than 17 points in any game in his career, but the senior from Australia has 11 20-point games this year…Bairstow had the summer of a lifetime, leading Australia’s World University Games team in scoring, rebounding and blocks on the way to helping the Aussies win their first-ever international basketball medal, earning a Silver Medal. Bairstow parlayed that experience into a tryout with the Boomers Olympic team, making the squad and playing in their exhibition series against New Zealand.”

The La Cueva alumnus redshirted last season – this is the best finish of his collegiate career to date. Saunders stepped up to fill a gap left by UNM’s number one ranked golfer, Gavin Green, who had an off game. Green is ranked 12th nationally. He shot a 4-over 75 settling for a tie for 28th with a 9-over 222. (71-75-75)

PHOTO: COURTESY, UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO ATHLETICS Bairstow is valuable to the Lobos for his leadership skills.

UNM reports that “the Lobos closed with a 7-over 291 to finish the tournament at 19over 871 (287-293-291), 18 strokes behind tournament winner and third-ranked California (281-285-287=853), which finished at 1 over par.”

“He leads by example,” says Tate. “You know you will get something from him. He is not a guy just taking up space on the court…I think he will get a chance to play on the next level. He did a great job of improving as a player. We call it, ‘The Season of Cam’. He has the body and game to make it on the next level. He has that soft touch ten feet away from the basketball. His play at the World University Games during the offseason coupled with his growth in confidence is just the beginning. Even though he is good, it seems like he is getting better.”

Host Arizona took second place finishing at 15-over 867 (290-291-286), four strokes ahead of the 14th- ranked Lobos.

The Wooden Award was created in 1976. A lot of criteria is consider in determining a winner, including a minimum GPA requirement of 2.0 and leadership skills. The award has contributed upwards of a million dollars to the general scholarship funds at many universities in the name of All-American recipients, sent more than 1,000 underprivileged children to college basketball camps and worked with Special Olympics.

New Mexico State and BYU tied for fifth at 20-over 873.

Keep in mind that players who are not named to the midseason Top 25 list are still eligible for the ballot.

A fine performance from junior Victor Perez who tied for 10th at 4-over 217 (70-77-70).

The Wooden Award All-American Team will be announced shortly, consisting of the nation’s top 10 players. All of the award winners will be presented in mid April.

“The other promising result for UNM came from redshirt freshman Mitch Johnson,” says Gregory Rey Archuleta of UNM, “who played only his second collegiate event and his first event away from the friendly confines of the UNM Championship Course. He sandwiched even-par 71s around a second-round 77 and finished at 6-over 219, good for a tie for 17th place among the 83 players in the field.”

“Collectively we still made some uncharacteristic mistakes that kept us from finishing better,” says Millican. “That’s something we have to work on.”

Cameron Bairstow, New Mexico Team RPI 0.6107

Team SOS 50

Ortg 121.6

Rank 136

%Poss 28.4

%Shots 27.9

eFG% 56.3

OR% 8.7

DR% 15.3

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he Sewailo golf Club in Tucson proved friendly for UNM junior Sam Saunders, where he led the Lobos in scoring with a 2-under 69 in the final round of the Arizona Intercollegiate, finishing with 1-over 214. Good enough to tie for 5th place. The team finished third out of a 14-team field. “Sam played really well,” says UNM coach Glen Millican. “Tying for fifth in a course he’d never played before is a good way for him to start off the spring.”

BY: SUMIKO CORLEY

he John R. Wooden Award is basketball’s most prestigious individual honor. Each year the Los Angeles Athletic Club releases the Midseason Top 25 list of student-athletes who are the leaders for the award – just being on that list is on honor in and of itself.

BY: SUMIKO CORLEY

Johnson competed, however, as an individual, which means his score did not count for the Lobos. “That’s a great way for him to finish,” says Millican. “The more guys we have playing well, the better team we’ll be by the end of the season.” PHOTOS: UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO ATHLETICS

Next stop: Wahiawa, Hawaii, where they will compete in the John Burns Intercollegiate.

abqsportsmag.com • 29

NEW MEXICO SPORTS

HALL OF FAME SPECIAL AWARDS 2013

By: Marty Saiz

AWARD OF DISTINCTION Henry Tafoya: Sportscaster at KOB, KOAT, and KRQE, began calling Lobo basketball games in the late

1970s. KDEF-AM in the early 1980s and the 90’s - brought sports talk radio. More than three decades later, Henry is still heard on weekly on ESPN Radio (101.7-FM). Henry “T” has done more high school games, little league, YAFL and AYBL games than anybody in New Mexico history.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION Pete Shock: Shock amassed 822 wins in his 41-year career as a high school basketball coach, the last 35 at Cliff. He is third all-time in New Mexico behind Marv Sanders (832 wins) and Ralph Tasker (1,121 wins). His Cowboys won nine state championships; Cliff has been in the title tilt four of the last five years, winning the championship twice.

PROFESSIONAL ATHLETE OF THE YEAR Matt Moore: This 24-year-old southpaw with the 95 mph fastball earned his first big-league all-star nod in 2013 when he finished the season with a 17-4 mark in 27 starts for the Tampa Bay Rays. Posting a respectable 3.29 ERA, the one-time Moriarty High pitcher finished ninth in the American league Cy Young balloting.

HIGH SCHOOL COACH OF THE YEAR Kevin Werth: The longtime head coach of the Piedra Vista High School softball team has led the Panthers to the last eight (2006-13) Class 4A championships. In 15 seasons as a head softball coach, he has amassed 313 career wins — 86 in six seasons at Shiprock and 227 in nine seasons at PVHS. This past summer he was named the 2013 National Softball Coach of the Year by the National High School Athletic Coaches Association. Werth surpassed the 300 career-win mark with a victory against La Cueva last April.

COLLEGIATE COACH OF THE YEAR Elena Lovato: Last season former Rio Grande Raven and head coach at Trinity Valley Junior College led her team to its 2nd consecutive women’s basketball national championship with an 83-71 win over Central Arizona College. Lovato was named coach of the tournament after leading the Cardinals (36-1) to the national championship.

HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETES OF THE YEAR Male: Korey Windham: This talented wrestler and football linebacker at St. Michael’s High School has won four state championships and is on track to reach a career high only three others in state history have achieved. If successful at this year’s state wrestling tournament, Windham will join the likes of Michael Scott Owen (Carlsbad 1994-98), Max Ortega (Rio Rancho 2005-09), and Daniel Martinez (Las Vegas Robertson 2007-11), who each won five state mat championships. Female: Anika Apostolon: During her final season of swimming for Albuquerque Academy she put an exclamation point to her high school career by lowering the state records she posted as a junior. Apostolon currently holds the New Mexico high school state records in the 50-free, 100free, 100-back, and as part of the 200-medley relay and 200-free relay. She also led Academy to victories in the 200-medley and 200-free relays. The No. 1 ranked swimmer in the state is now at San Diego State, where she competes on the swim and water polo teams.

HIGH SCHOOL TEAM OF THE YEAR Eldorado Girl’s Soccer Team: Morgan Divine booted what turned out to be the game-winner into the Cougars’ net during that shootout and then went back between the pipes for the final save to make that kick stand up to help the Eagles win the 5A soccer championship. Eldorado (20-1) captured its first state championship since 2009. The Eagles’ fine season wasn’t missed by MaxPreps, which ranked them No. 3 in the entire nation in December.

COLLEGIATE TEAM OF THE YEAR UNM Men’s Soccer Team: The Conference USA champions, led by Jeremy Fishbein, made it all the way to the Final Four of the College Cup. Finishing with a record of 14-6-2, they lost to Notre Dame, 2-0, ending their dreams of a national title. UNM once again finished in the Top 10 of the final rankings: No. 3 in TopDrawerSoccer and No. 4 in the NSCAA and College Soccer News.

COLLEGIATE ATHLETES OF THE YEAR Male: Alex Bregman: After an outstanding season at Louisiana State University in which

Bregman hit .369 while leading the Tigers in hits (104, second in the country), triples (seven), doubles (18) and steals (16 in 17 attempts) while adding six homers and 52 RBIs, it was no surprise that Bregman earned Baseball America’s “Freshman of the Year” award. He also won the Brooks Wallace Award in 2013 and was similarly named National Freshman of the Year by Collegiate Baseball and the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association.

Female: Chantale Riddle: Chantale was named a third-team AVCA All-American, capping

an honor-filled junior campaign this past fall when she once again led the UNM volleyball team in kills (468) and kills per game (4.11). Her 1,182 career kills rank fifth all-time. She is the program’s first AVCA All-American since 2008. Riddle is the sixth Lobo to earn AVCA All-America honors.

30 February 2014

PROMOTION OF THE YEAR Connie Mack World Series: Last year marked the 49th year for the Connie Mack World Series in Farmington. It is not by chance or by accident that this tournament continues to be a success. The support of the foster parents, the civic clubs, the sponsors, administrators, coaches, players, and fans has made the Connie Mack World Series the largest and highest-esteemed tournament in amateur baseball.

abqsportsmag.com • 31

2013 Volleyball Sectional Coach of the Year

Brian Ainsworth

BY: SUMIKO CORLEY

but number of years coached, school and community involvement, philosophy of coaching, and professional involvement in coaching. It is quite an achievement to be singled out among 4 other strong candidates in your section for this award.” Four other candidates in the section, pulled from an original pool of thousands of coaches spread among high schools in those member states.

Photo: COURTESY, KIM VESELY, RIO RANCHO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

oach Ainsworth knows how to win. He also knows how to lead and develop a young person not only as an athlete, but as an individual. He was at the helm of the Cleveland High School volleyball team as they earned the state championship in 2012. 2013 was supposed to be a rebuilding year, but his talent, dedication and experience helped to develop another group of gifted athletes who made it to the final match.

“Brian is an asset to our coaching staff,” says Cleveland Athletic Director Larry Chavez. “He is a class act and his team is a reflection of Coach and his staff. Coach Ainsworth has been successful at every stop he has made, be it in single A, Triple A and now five A. He is very intense and his players and parents know and accept the intensity that he brings to his squad…Coach Ainsworth in two years at Cleveland 1 State Championship, 1 State Runner up and 1 District Championship. His previous stop at Pojoaque, Coach had 4 State Championships and 1 State Runner up.” Ainsworth graduated from Clovis High in 1984, earned a football and baseball scholarship to New Mexico Highlands University where he was a two-time All-American and National Offensive Player of the Year. He earned a Bachelors of Business Administration at Highlands before turning to coaching. When asked why athletics over business, his answer melts the heart.

With 26 years coaching experience, his teams have earned several district, regional and state championships. For that reason, the National Federation of State High School “We teach a lot of life lessons in our gym by tying daily life/work Coaches Associations has selected Ainsworth examples into various situations during practice to see how the as the 2013 Sectional Volleyball Coach of the players will react. Volleyball is played by six players working Year. together to create music on the court. Each player has to bring

“I learned the game of volleyball from my wife, Melissa. She played at NMHU and I not only feel in love with her while attending NMHU, but I also fell in love with the game of volleyball.”

“I am very honored some type of rhythm to the game to be effective.” to receive this award,” – Brian Ainsworth says Ainsworth. “I And that’s not the learned this game from my wife, Melissa, and I want to thank her only sport he loves. Or at which he excels. His career stats: for all the hours we have talked about strategies, do’s and don’ts and the game of volleyball. I have been blessed with a bunch of “349 wins and 60 loses,” says Ainsworth. “ I also have over great volleyball players over the years and I really want to share 150 wins in coaching baseball as well. I have a total of 6 State this with them because it is really their efforts that have made me Championships in Volleyball and 1 in Baseball. I have 16 District successful in my coaching career.” Titles and two State Runner-ups.” Ainsworth faced extremely tough competition from other Ainsworth has been with Cleveland two seasons and manages states in the region, which include Colorado, Arkansas, Texas and to find the time to coach boys little league baseball. Oklahoma. “Being a sectional or national coach of the year is particularly significant,” says NFHS Coaches Associations’ Barbara Johnson, “as our point system takes into account, not just win-loss records, 32 February 2014

He has his eye on this year’s state title. And ABQ Sports will have an eye on Ainsworth and The Storm.

KORNER’ WAS RESERVED FOR NEW MEXICO’S RALPH KINER

Now 92, popular Hall of Famer still talking baseball By ARNIE LESHIN

anta Rita is a ghost town. That’s what the map of New Mexico says.

There it is, laid out west of 25, north of 10, east of Silver City and south of the national forest -- a ghost town in place when Halloween comes around every year since the copper mining town was abandoned in 1967. If Ralph Kiner knows this, it would be surprising because it’s been ages since he first took baby steps in these parts. He turned 92 on October 27, his birth date in Santa Rita. He’s far and away the greatest baseball player to come from the Land of Enchantment, and no doubt the biggest name. And despite his advanced age, the popular Hall of Famer hasn’t forgotten his history with the New York Mets, when in the inaugural year of 1962, he began broadcasting their games from the Polo Grounds. It’s been a long time since Kiner first went on the air with Lindsey Nelson and Bob Murphy, both of whom have since passed away. But he still finds time to fly in from San Diego and spend some time in the booth for Mets’ games. He can’t belt out the words the way he hit home runs, but it’s said he never runs out of stories to tell. He was probably telling a few to those sitting next to him at last season’s All-Star game at the Mets Citi Field. Yes, the game has never left him, but it’s a shame that he wasn’t able to spend more time on the playing field.

So Kiner went on to become one of the elite ones of yesteryears who never dreamed of what baseball would be paying today. But he had good, rich taste, having dated actress Elizabeth Taylor for a stretch. In 1975, Ralph McPerran Kiner stood on the podium in Cooperstown, N.Y., and thanked baseball for naming him to its Hall of Fame. Watching it on TV, you could see that he was his usual, humble self. When the tears subsided, the crowd rose and gave him his due. There was “Kiner’s Korner.” After delivering his fill of what became known as Kinerisms on the air – whether radio or television – Kiner would hustle to the elevator and head to his spot alongside the Mets’ dugout to conduct his interviews. On the first show, he was speaking with original Met Clarence (Choo-Choo) Coleman. When he asked him how he got his nickname, Coleman shrugged, smiled, and answered that he didn’t know. There was silence. It was a comical start, but one that fans would get used to. I had this housemate, Tom, who at the time was covering sports for News World, also known as the “moonie” paper. He was assigned to cover the Mets, but the one time that he didn’t he knocked on my door and asked if I had Kiner’s post-game on the tubes.

Sixty years ago, at age 32, that’s when a back injury forced him to retire, so who knows how many home runs he might have He was relieved to see that I did. He missed the game, but had? In 10 seasons with the hapless Pittsburgh Pirates, the slugger was, no doubt, the franchise’s greatest threat from the right side of thanks to Kiner, was able to put together a story to the paper. the plate. . When I covered the Mets, it was usually a hello and goodbye when I came across the ever-smiling Kiner. He was always busy, In each of his first seven seasons with the Bucs, he led usually telling one of his wild, unimaginable stories. the National League in home runs. That is still a league record. Twice he hit more than 50, six times he drove in more than 100 And he was great at forgetting names. So as the years went by, runs, three times he ranked first in slugging percentage, plus he he would make mistakes that would appear on the sports pages of averaged more than 100 walks each campaign. the New York dailies. A wrong name, a wrong team, a wrong score … thus the Kinerisms. There’s more. In 1949, his 127 runs-batted-in was tops in the league. In all, he averaged 37 home runs and 100 RBI a season. For every 100 at-bats, he averaged 7.1 home runs, a percentage ranking second only to Babe Ruth. He is the only one to hit homers in three-straight All-Star games. They retired his number 4. But with the Pirates in a penny-pinching mode, Kiner struck out after becoming the first NL player to ask for a salary of $100,000, unheard of in those days. The story goes that the Pittsburgh front office informed him that the team finished last with him and can finish last without him. And so, no deal!

For example, in the late Gary Carter’s first game with the Mets, the catcher hit a home run as Kiner said: “Yes, there is it, a home run for Gary Coleman.” Then there were his funny one-liners, like describing Phil Niekro’s knuckleball was “Like watching Mario Andretti park a car”. Or “Two thirds of the earth is covered by water, the other third by Willie Mays”. A great baseball player, he remains one of the all-time characters of the game, and somewhere in the ghost town of Santa Rita, there’s got to be some mention of Ralph Kiner. On a ‘Korner’ maybe? abqsportsmag.com • 33

National Federation of State High School Coaches Associations’ 2013 Coaches of the Year BY: SUMIKO CORLEY

he National Federation of State High School Coaches Associations (NFSHSA) each year select the best coaches at the state, sectional and national level. The organization was founded in 1920 to “to enhance the professional development of all high school sports coaches in order to improve interscholastic athletics in America.” There are currently 50 member state high school athletic/activity associations plus the District of Columbia – 19,000 high schools

and more than 11 million students involved with sports. The coaches who lead these teams are tasked with the responsibility of not only developing athletic skills, but imparting wisdom that forms the character of the student athletes. Here are the Association’s New Mexico honorees for 2013:

Matt Martinez

Jim Miller

Athletic Director

Football

Pojoaque Valley High School

Las Cruces High School

Marc Hilton

Margaret Stanley

St. Pius X High School

Socorro High School

Baseball

Special Sport

Terry L Heisey

Kelly Grice

Girls Basketball

Tennis

Hope Christian School

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Kathy and Rob Hipwood

Richard Johnson La Cueva High School

Tennis

Los Alamos High School

Girls Cross Country

Allan Lockridge

Lisa McMath

Boys Cross County

Girls Track and Field

Fort Sumner High School

Pojoaque Valley High School

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abqsportsmag.com • 35

VALDEZ, LOVATO, BACA WIN BIG AT

Kick Boredom with the Group Effect By: Lawrence Chavez Group Fitness Manager at Defined Fitness

common reason given for quitting an exercise program is boredom. So how can you spice up your workout routine? Try a group fitness class!

Group fitness classes offer a variety of benefits including exposure to a social and fun environment, safe and effective workouts, camaraderie and accountability among participants as well as between participants and instructor.

OF THE Story & PhotoS By: Dave FrieDlanDer

n the show’s opener, Matt Baca met local gatekeeper of sorts, Michael Coca Gallegos, in a six-rounder. This fight was Baca’s to win but Gallegos did his best to turn it into his type of slugfest. When Baca was on his toes snapping his jab in open space he couldn’t miss, he even followed with a few clean body shots. Problem is, Baca fought Gallegos’s fight, not just willingly clinching on the ropes but closing the distance himself by leading with leaping hooks. Gallegos got the better of the inside fighting, enough to earn him four of the six rounds on one scorecard. Baca’s corner offered no technical instruction during or between rounds. As a result, Baca rarely threw his surefire jab, took 20 more hard punches then he should have and barely escaped with a split decision. In the lone female bout Monica Lovato shook off six years of ring rust to face well-traveled fighter DJ Morrison. It sounded as though Lovato brought half of Espanola with her. The shouts of her supporters made the ceiling shake. DJ Morrison has fought her share of top tier fighters but Lovato made her look like an amateur. Morrison answered Lovato’s solid combinations by winging wild single glancing blows. Lovato came on stronger with each round, finally pouring it on in the fourth to end Morrison’s night.

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The main event brought in the other half of Espanola to cheer on their favorite son, Tony Valdez. Valdez wasn’t offered an easy test. Instead, he faced crafty vet Jaime “El Fama” Gutierrez who wasn’t the least bit phased by the wildly pro-Lopez crowd. Gutierrez did his best taunting to get Lopez to rush in, hoping to counterstrike. Valdez remained patient but would occasionally lunge in eating a punch. The exchanges were mostly even but Lopez managed to trap Gutierrez in the corner at the end of the latter rounds, finishing with barrages of body shots. Despite Gutierrez’ gamesmanship Lopez put in a very workman-like six rounds to win by unanimous decision.

Our classes will inspire you.

Defined Fitness offers the best variety of group fitness classes around and all are included with membership! 36 February 2014

abqsportsmag.com • 37

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fighters Hunter Tucker and Luis Luna. Most notably, especially for Albuquerque, Legacy has contracted Holly Holm, the world’s best pound-for-pound female boxer, now retired from boxing and undefeated in her MMA career at 6-0. Legacy will be making its debut appearance in Albuquerque this April 5, and our very own “Preacher’s Daughter” will be featured on the card, fighting for the inaugural Legacy Female Bantamweight Belt against Juliana Werner, a Brazilian currently on a 5-fight win streak. Legacy has partnered with Fresquez Productions, Holm’s promoters, to bring an exciting local card to Albuquerque, which may also feature Page and Tucker as well as Jackson’s fighter Clint Roberts and several other fighters from other local gyms. The full card and details will be released at a 2pm press conference February 11 at Route 55 Casino Hotel. For more information on this promotion and the upcoming event, visit www.legacyfights.net or www. fresquezproductions.com.

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Local and national MMA blogs and websites wrote several stories speculating on the outcome of such a match, and fight fans throughout New Mexico and Texas, as well as around the country, were generally expecting an all-out war. Fans, friends and families tuned in to AXS TV, a US television channel for both cable and satellite, to watch the outcome of this highly anticipated matchup which took place January 31. The fire of anticipation was stoked even higher at weigh-ins when Means pushed Young back at the face-off. The actual battle, however, was far shorter than many could have hoped for.

“I felt like he touched my face,” said Means, “and we got into it a little bit. But Artenas is a nice guy. I’m just happy to come in here and stop him.”

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or several weeks Albuquerque fight fans have been following the fight camps of two hometown-trained welterweights: Tim “Dirty Bird” Means, Moriarty-born-and-raised - a former UFC fighter who trains at FIT NHB, and Artenas “Machine Gun” Young, a Houston native and Legacy veteran who trains at Luttrell’s and Jackson’s MMA, as well as 4 Oz Fight Club. For years, there has been an unspoken but well-known rivalry between FIT NHB and Jackson’s, but very rarely have fights between the two camps taken place.

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The two circled one another with Means being the aggressor, coming forward and pushing the pace for about a minute, each throwing shots to gauge the range and power of the other. Young landed a nice right hook that pushed Means back for a second, but he countered quickly and heavily with several lefts, knocking Young down to the mat. The referee jumped in to stop the match at 1:38 of the first round, giving Means the win by TKO. As Young stood back up in apparent disbelief, the hometown crowd loudly disapproved, believing it to be an early stoppage. Regardless, Means took home the win and improved his record to 20-5-1. He took a moment to acknowledge his opponent and explain the altercation at weigh-ins.

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BY: SUMIKO CORLEY

BOYS: 1. Bo Coleman 2. Tim Brennan 3. Jacob Holland 4. Kamal Cass 5. Christian Mackey 6. Cody French 7. Darryl Wiggins 8. Jordan Lara 9. Tate Shelley 10. Baeu Chafton

By: Marty Saiz

Valley High School Sandia High School Los Lunas High School Clovis High School Kirtland Central High School Roswell Goddard High School Del Norte High School Rio Rancho High School Cliff High School Piedra Vista High School

Football, Basketball, Baseball Football, Basketball Football, Basketball, Track Football, Basketball, Track Football, Basketball, Track Football, Baseball Football, Basketball, Track Football, Wrestling Basketball, Track, Rodeo Football, Track

Holman is well known and well loved in the Four Corners region of the state - he led the Farmington High School basketball girls to a 2002 state title and in 2012, captured the championship again with the Kirtland Central girls. His talent was not limited to basketball, leading the Shiprock High School girls golf team to a state championship as well. “Kevin’s sports legacy in the Four Corners is far from limited to his coaching achievements,” says close friend Rick Hoerner. “He was a big fan of high school sports (who) attended multiple events even if his school wasn’t playing. Kevin volunteered at the Connie Mack World Series, worked as a football broadcaster for Fox Sports and was an avid golfer.”

Kevin, Quinn & Griff Holman

His optimism and belief in his players were just as notable as his coaching talent. Those traits endeared him to many and formed a lot of friendships.

GIRLS: 1. Hannah Fenske 2. Kim Chapman 3. Rachel Fledderman 4 Crissy Amberg 5. Kelli Reagan 6. Louisa Mackenzie 7. Nicole Pendle 8. Hunter Haley 9. Kaylee Millgan 10. Jessica Simpson

hree-time state champion coach Kevin Holman passed away January 22 after battling cancer for nearly 12 years. He was 49.

Volcano Vista High School Cibola High School Sandia Prep Eldorado High School St. Pius X High School Bosque School Rio Rancho High School Elida High School Silver High School Hobbs High School

Soccer, Basketball ross Country, Basketball, Track Cross Country, Swimming, Track Cross Country, Basketball, Track Cross Country, Softball Soccer, Basketball, Tennis Softball, Track Volleyball, Basketball, Track, Rodeo Volleyball, Basketball, Tennis Soccer, Softball

Holman fought a fierce battle with cancer – endured surgeries to remove tumors in his neck and underwent chemotherapy when the thyroid cancer spread. Friends say he also took radiation pills. After the cancer returned in late 2012, he continued coaching the Lady Broncos through the 2012-13 season. The cancer then spread to his lungs and back. Through it all, he lived and coached with passion. “There are many,” says Hoerner, “who only knew Kevin by what they saw on the sidelines really didn’t know him. As a coach he was a very competitive and even combatant rival, but at the end of the 32 minutes he left it on the floor. He was friendly to opposing players and coaches as well as the officials who were getting an earful just minutes earlier. Kevin was well respected by his coaching brethren and former players, as well as those on other teams that got to know him through basketball camps or a fan watching them play.”

Coach Holman began his career coaching boys basketball at Wingate High School. During his tenure at Farmington High he coached both the boys and girls teams, leading the Scorpions to four district championships. The 2002 state championship was played against Kirtland Central. His next stop – the school Farmington beat in that championship game. He took over at Kirtland Central in 2010, leading those girls to a state victory in 2012. His lengthy career also included several honors as District Coach of the Year, 4A Basketball Coach of the Year (2002) and membership in the Navajo Nation Sports Hall of Fame. In addition to basketball, Holman coached volleyball, softball, baseball and football at various schools during his working life. Coach Holman is survived by his daughter Quinn and son Griff, both of whom attend school in Farmington.

“There is no doubt San Juan County sports has lost its greatest supporter and a coach that has left his mark on his friends, players and other coaches. Anyone that truly knew Kevin Holman liked Kevin Holman and his absence will greatly missed by a thankful community.” – Ricker Hoerner 40 February 2014

abqsportsmag.com • 41

New Mexico at the Pro Bowl

injured in a motorcycle accident that left him unable to walk. He’s always wanted to attend a Bowl game. Since he couldn’t, Torres says she streaked in honor of him, knowing he’d be watching the game back here in New Mexico. Written across her back – ‘I did it 4 Gary’.

“He has worked so hard to make as much progress as he has made,” says Torres, “and I wanted to do something in honor of him to show him that even though he could not physically go to the Pro Bowl with me, I would carry his name on my back and do something to show him that I love him. I was going to do something crazy for him just to make him smile and be able to see me on TV representing him.”

Photos by: Lori Lendio McKeown

es, the Land of Enchantment made an appearance on national TV, but it’s not the kind of appearance New Mexico football fans anticipated.

As the clock registered less than five minutes in the fourth quarter, a small figure clad in a bikini top, sneakers and denim shorts leaped over the wall near the end zone. She was clad in the New Mexico flag. New Mexico had finally made it to the Pro Bowl gridiron. 2008 Cibola High School grad Katrina Torres spent about a minute on the field, chest bumping some players before being caught by security. “The players seemed happy and were laughing and smiling the whole time,” says Torres. “The entire stadium was cheering for me but I think the players were the ones who were cheering for me the loudest. Kyle Long from the Chicago Bears contacted me and told me that he blocked a security guard from chasing me so that way I could keep on running. I’m an even bigger fan of Kyle Long now. After I ran off of the field, a lot of the players were trying to highfive me and Cam Newton and a few other players were even taking pictures of me with their phones. I think that the players could tell that I wasn’t trying to hurt anyone or doing it to be obnoxious.” This 23-year old Albuquerque native now living in Hawaii says she did it as a fulfillment of a promise made to her cousin Gary,

Authorities, not pleased with the breach of security. Typically, streakers are arrested and fine. Enter a football legend. “Deion Sanders totally saved me,” says Torres. “After I stopped running and was finally getting escorted out, ‘Prime Time Sanders’ followed the police and I out and was telling the officers not to arrest me and that I did nothing wrong. Even while I was in the security office being questioned, he sent another player from his team to check on me and make sure that I was ok and wasn’t going to jail. He completely had my back without having any idea of why I was doing what I was doing. I think he could sense that I was being playful and I meant no harm. I think he had a hunch that there had to be a reason behind what I was doing. I am so appreciate of him going out of his way to help me and make sure that I didn’t end up in jail. Thank you so much Mr. Sanders!” Torres was not arrested, but she’s banned from Aloha Stadium for one year, according to Fox Sports. “That is completely fine if people don’t agree with what I did,” says Torres, “but my actions have raised awareness for those with special needs. People have the choice to be negative or positive. I choose to be a positive voice for Gary and for people like him and to stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves. If what I did at the Pro Bowl on Sunday encourages others to never pass up the opportunity to go our of their way to make someone’s day or to help a person in need, then any amount of criticism is ok with me.”

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