Comments for The Duffle Bag

Comment on Vote for SWC Athlete of the Week! by Derrick

Derrick — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 14:04:31 +0000

#41 Javon grey Notre Dame football of west haven had 207 yds and 4 touch downs vs cross high on 10/27/11 javon grey maintains to be a honor student.

Comment on About Kevin Duffy by Donna

Donna — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 15:56:36 +0000

Hi Kevin,
Newtown Girls Volleyball is 14-0 and not a thing in the D.N.T, don’t you like us?

Comment on A New Era at The Duffle Bag by swc11

swc11 — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 19:48:11 +0000

Kevin-
Congrats on your new position! Enjoyed reading your articles and blogs!!

Comment on A New Era at The Duffle Bag by BigKicker

BigKicker — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 15:25:03 +0000

Best of Luck in your new job, sorry to see you go, you have done a great job covering the high school sports….players and coaches will miss you!

Comment on Bunnell’s Camille wins SWC Athlete of Week by jeb

jeb — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 15:51:35 +0000

No question that Xavier plays a much tougher schedule and by rights should be ranked #1 in the state. In my opinion Masuk would outscore Xavier or any other team in the state.

Comment on A New Era at The Duffle Bag by Henry C

Henry C — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 13:43:00 +0000

Congrats Kevin, I remember when we were interns at the New Haven Register in ’08. Proud of you bro! (and don’t forget to hook a brother up with some tickets lol)

Comment on A New Era at The Duffle Bag by Kikz

Kikz — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:35:46 +0000

I will miss waking up every morning, going onto my computer, and immediately searching for your articles in the newstimes to start my day off right. You are the best and I can’t wait to be the Connecticut Posts new biggest fan! LYLABF!

Comment on A New Era at The Duffle Bag by Fred

Fred — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 23:46:39 +0000

Congrats Kevin! Big time career move, I know you’re gunna do great things. Very happy for you and proud of you. Keep up your enthusiasm doing what you love. Looking fwd to watching your career develop. You were great coverig local FB. LMK if you need any help/advice.

Comment on A New Era at The Duffle Bag by BHSFan

BHSFan — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 16:50:28 +0000

Best of luck with the new position and thank you for you shining a positive light on Danbury area athletics and athletes. You brought a lot of energy and heart to our local sports scene and made it more entertaining to follow.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 4 by hsfan

hsfan — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 17:51:11 +0000

How about Mike Cannata sophmore from Stratford 3 tds, 2 in the fourth, the last bringing the team down and scoring with 30 secs for stratford’s first win in only his second varsity start, his first was against masuk. Threw for like 400 yards in the game.

Comment on Bunnell’s Camille wins SWC Athlete of Week by Carl

Carl — Sun, 09 Oct 2011 22:22:14 +0000

Kevin, I couldn’t disagree with you more. Xavier beats Masuk hands down and let me explain why. Xavier will dominate the line play. I’ve seen both teams (multiple times). Xavier put up 40 a game against tough d’s week in and week out. Masuk’s d would be no different so put 40 on the board for Xavier. Since Xavier wins the line of scrimmage and it will be easy, Masuk becomes one dimensional. Will Masuk score 10 yep, 20 probably, 30 I’ll bet my mortgage against that one. With 5-6 players who will be going to D1 schools that won’t happen./ Casey is terrific but would feel pressure he never has seen before. Xavier is not bunnell, Newtown or Pomperaug. X wins easy 42-28.

Comment on SWC Athlete of the Week Nominees by Ben

Ben — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 19:28:45 +0000

I’m with Millie and Tom………………..Madison hands down!!!

Comment on SWC Athlete of the Week Nominees by Millie Duffy

Millie Duffy — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 06:55:26 +0000

So sorry I didn’t open my email before midnight! But, whether or not our vote counts, we vote for Madison.

Your aunt and uncle,
Millie and Tom

Comment on SWC Weekly Awards by moses

moses — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 23:04:20 +0000

got a chance to watch masuk vs statford and milone is a beast.i would love to see what that piontkowski kid could do if he played a whole game.that kid made some great plays at WR and on punt returns..

Comment on Masuk No. 2….again by R-MAC

R-MAC — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 22:53:35 +0000

Masuk could be playing in the FCIAC or the SCC. They would be welcome in either division, but they stay in the SWC because that is where they are most effective,its their stomping grounds. Monroe has a very good youth football program that works well at having the boys ready for their highschool program. It starts out Monroe Lions and ends with the Masuk Panthers. I have seen for myself how it works having supported a family member for the last eight years. In that time the team he has been on has never had a losing season,including four state AYF championships and now in his junior year with the state champion Masuk Panthers. The Masuk team is loaded with talent and speed that kills. Casey was brought here to do what he does best, pass the football read defenses and set state records. Yes they blow teams away week after week and yes they do rule the SWC and they know that the X-MEN could give them a game for # 1, but the game would end the way all of Masuk’s games end, in the red zone with a winning touchdown ! R-MAC

Comment on Bethel’s Serencsics named SWC Player of Week by PompFan04

PompFan04 — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 02:36:03 +0000

Pomp didn’t run away from him,they ran over him around him and thru him. How about someone from Bethel changes up that Pop Warner defense.

Comment on Bethel’s Serencsics named SWC Player of Week by BigD

BigD — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 19:39:56 +0000

To whom it may concern,
Most of New Milford’s passing yards were 4 long pass plays. All stats can be deceiving I agree. Most of the other passing plays were in flats, where he made alot of tackles. If you were at the game you would have seen this. He made the first 5 tackles, He plays all special teams, Stats are all backed up by game film. Maybe that’s why teams run away from him to the other side. This is an Honor and a sign of a Good player at the high school level. To sum it up, this player is for real.

Comment on SWC Weekly Awards by OhWell

OhWell — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 18:39:01 +0000

@DC Rider – Milone had a great game and should have won the vote but maybe the Masuk bloggers spent too much time defending Coach Murphy and Coach Jack Cochran in other blogs and did not spend enough time voting for Milone. Matt Paola had a typical day for him. That’s what he does and he does it well. It’s not easy to play offense, defense and all of the special teams each week like Paola does. He’s constantly on the field.

Comment on SWC Weekly Awards by DC Rider

DC Rider — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 16:06:13 +0000

How could Milone not win – what a joke.

Comment on SWC Weekly Awards by James Hatte

James Hatte — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:35:30 +0000

One of the best weapons in the state is Paola’s ability to routinely kick the ball through the end zone on kickoffs. It takes away opponents chances for a big play and makes them start on their own 20. In High School, that is very bad field position. Also, his field goal range is key because once PHS hits the opponents 40-35 yard line – they can attempt a field goal. If he does not make it, the ball only comes back out to the 20, not the line of scrimmage or the spot of the kick. The rule is kind of dumb, but it is what it is.

Comment on SWC Athlete of the Week by Britany

Britany — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 09:49:36 +0000

Jana should have won.

Comment on Bethel’s Serencsics named SWC Player of Week by PompFan04

PompFan04 — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 14:56:32 +0000

@ BigD its not about whether a player is a great kid,most are. If your going to go by what maxpreps has for tackles I believe someone is definitely padding Bethel stats for tackles!! They have a DE(20 solo tackles???) and a DL(21 total) in the top 15 in the state in tackles. No way. NM passed for 399yds and only ran the ball like 10 times for 30 something yds,and vs Pomp was in the secondary every play.

Comment on Bethel’s Serencsics named SWC Player of Week by Kevin Duffy

Kevin Duffy — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 15:34:25 +0000

I was wondering the same thing myself. He’s listed as a DE, but he must have been playing LB

Comment on Bethel’s Serencsics named SWC Player of Week by PompFan04

PompFan04 — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 09:29:21 +0000

How does a DE have 16 tackles against a team that passed the ball all game?

Comment on Bethel’s Serencsics named SWC Player of Week by BigD

BigD — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 19:31:13 +0000

Hey bigmouth638 He won because he is a GREAT kid and a GOOD football Player. If you don’t have anything nice to say about an honor like this don’t talk or write.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 1 by bigmac638

bigmac638 — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 20:27:18 +0000

haha new fairfield sucks, new milfords defense is a lot better this year, they will not get run all over this year, if u saw the game you’d know that new milford is not “soft” and can stop the run, ask brandon schmidt he’ll give the new milford d some credit, new fairfield sucks

Comment on Bethel’s Serencsics named SWC Player of Week by bigmac638

bigmac638 — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 20:23:57 +0000

he only won because the bethel people advertised this whole award way too much…..

Comment on New Milford AD Ted Oczkowski steps down by bigmac638

bigmac638 — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 20:21:14 +0000

thank god he was awful

Comment on New Milford AD Ted Oczkowski steps down by Jamison

Jamison — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 14:31:11 +0000

I thought there was more to come?

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 1 by REBELNATION

REBELNATION — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 17:51:26 +0000

@BigMac NM won’t even beat NF everyone and their mother knows Bethel’s pass defense is weak.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 1 by Kevin Duffy

Kevin Duffy — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 14:57:30 +0000

@Whopper16 I’m not off the Brookfield bandwagon at all. I still think Brookfield is a very talented team. The Bobcats simply did not play well against Pomperaug.

I think the thing that makes Brookfield so dangerous is that (outside of Masuk) they are the most effective run/pass team. Gordon and Puglisi can gash you; so can Brown. But when they got down, they abandoned the run (understandably) and that makes them a whole lot easier to defend.

@BigMac I’m not ready to crown New Milford or anything, but I think they can surprise some teams. I’m trying to get down to the Bunnell-NM game this week…should be about 800 passing yards in that one.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 1 by PompFan04

PompFan04 — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 13:18:37 +0000

Not for anything “masuk” but didnt Pomp beat the hell out of you in the spread a couple years ago? Must have some short term memory loss about that game

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 1 by PompFan04

PompFan04 — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 13:17:08 +0000

@bigmac638 It’s going to be hard for New Milford to beat Pomperaug when they dont even play each other this year. New Milford cant stop anyone from running on them they are soft. They were up big on a option team and couldnt hold the lead when Bethel is clearly not built for comebacks. No way the stop the return of the Hammer anyway your lucky you dont play Pomp

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 1 by whopper16

whopper16 — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 11:57:15 +0000

NM will not beat Brookfield or Pomp..lets not get crazy…and Duff..what is with the “when the Bobcats got down, they went to the air, which essentially took running backs Leaon Gordon and Tyler Puglisi out of the game.” You make it osund like all of a sudden Brokfield cant throw.Brookfield does have a QB with a cannon, and he can win the game for them, just had an off night. I think you are getting off the bandwagon too quickly…

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 1 by Robert Morey

Robert Morey — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 10:41:37 +0000

You have to go with Brandon Schmidt. He was obviously THE difference maker this week. he has my vote as Player of The Week.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 1 by masuk

masuk — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 02:28:14 +0000

this shows what happens when pomp runs the ball in hammer instead of that spread offense

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 1 by Frank

Frank — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 01:22:17 +0000

and bethel beat new milford..so show me proof

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 1 by bigmac638

bigmac638 — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 00:24:11 +0000

new milford is better than bethel, will beat brookfield and pomperaug

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 1 by pompforlife

pompforlife — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 22:23:28 +0000

OFBK

Comment on Game of the Week: Pomperaug at Brookfield by pomppop

pomppop — Sun, 18 Sep 2011 13:01:14 +0000

Good old fashion butt kicking!!

Comment on Game of the Week: Pomperaug at Brookfield by PompFan04

PompFan04 — Sat, 17 Sep 2011 20:01:46 +0000

Haha,how did that work out for a over rated team and QB.

Comment on Game of the Week: Pomperaug at Brookfield by Pomperaug Player

Pomperaug Player — Sat, 17 Sep 2011 04:40:51 +0000

old fashion butt kicking (OFBK)

Comment on Game of the Week: Pomperaug at Brookfield by Brookfield Fan

Brookfield Fan — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 13:05:53 +0000

Brookfield damaged Pomperaug’s system last year and you know Pomperaug wants revenge. I think Brookfield is the better team and will win if they minimze turnovers and make Pomperaug have to pass the ball. – Brookfield 28 Pomperaug 14

Comment on SWC Football Preseason Rankings by Uconn Believer

Uconn Believer — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 17:08:23 +0000

Just noticed the post by Falcon. It is true Barlow outscored Ridgefield in the scrimmage. It is also true that Barlow threw 3 passes 2 that were picked and Ridgefield played 2nd and 3rd teamers in their base defense. If this was played as a real game, Barlow would have seen 9 in the box daring them to throw. Both team may have held some things back but Barlow will have to throw it to compliment their running game.

Comment on SWC Football Preseason Rankings by BHS Fan

BHS Fan — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 21:09:04 +0000

Solid job with the rankings. Right now Masuk and Brookfield look to be the class of the SWC, but don’t be surprised if Bethel wins 8 games this year, despite losing some outstanding players upfront. Schmidt and Birdsell look like they never left the weight room since last season and they have proven to be tough to bring down in their scrimmages, just ask New Canaan. Like all small roster teams, staying healthy is critical, but if they can manage to avoid major injuries to their key offensive players, Bethel’s offense should rack up another 3,000+ rushing yards.

Comment on SWC Football Preseason Rankings by BulldogPride

BulldogPride — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 17:21:11 +0000

Jibril Chisholm Graduated

Comment on SWC Football Preseason Rankings by SWCFan95

SWCFan95 — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 11:56:51 +0000

How did Brookfield-New Canaan Scrimmage look yesterday or did they postpone?

Comment on Masuk shooting for No. 1 by SWCfiend

SWCfiend — Sat, 03 Sep 2011 19:15:51 +0000

you didn’t put ‘none’ as an option
nobody can beat masuk

Comment on SWC Football Preseason Rankings by Falcon

Falcon — Sat, 03 Sep 2011 03:29:38 +0000

You also underestimate Barlow. You say Brookfield-Ridgefield will be an interesting scrimmage? Barlow outscored Ridgefield 35-21 with their starters in. You cant argue with results, and thats without Peter Meehan and Billy Wilson, neither of whom will be playing offense most likely.

Comment on SWC Football Preseason Rankings by Donald C

Donald C — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 03:48:34 +0000

Masuk wins another title!!!!

Comment on SWC Football Preseason Rankings by pompinsider

pompinsider — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 16:54:27 +0000

WOW!! No respect for Pomp!! Lot’s of kids returning. If they can sneak by Brookfield and get the new QB experience- they will contend. Mark it down!

Comment on SWC Football Preseason Rankings by swcer

swcer — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 04:01:22 +0000

ham and cheese

Comment on SWC Football Preseason Rankings by InsidePompFootball

InsidePompFootball — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 02:14:50 +0000

Kevin – I think you underestimate Pomperaug. They cannot throw the ball like they did last year but they have weapons on offense that people don’t know too much about. They have three players that can run the ball and have plenty of Receivers to throw to when needed. Coach Croce installed an offense that fits the personnel and will utilize their talents. The Defense and Special teams are as good as anyone’s in the Conference. The key will be injuries (like everyone else) and how well they pass the ball in the big games.

Comment on SWC Football Preseason Rankings by Kevin Duffy

Kevin Duffy — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 22:43:19 +0000

Fantasy football rankings will be in Sunday’s paper

Comment on SWC Football Preseason Rankings by SWCFan95

SWCFan95 — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 19:02:21 +0000

Seems to be accurate, but the middle group of teams could all shuffle up and down. Those games will be interesting and winner take all. Masuk vs Brookfield for SWC could be exciting! Brookfield, Pomperaug, Newtown, Bunnell, Oxford, and Bethel will still be fighting every game, there are no givens…When will you start breaking down the players and positions?

Comment on Masuk shooting for No. 1 by SWCFan95

SWCFan95 — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 18:39:48 +0000

When will you do your story on SWC football for 2011? Have you prepared your rankings? Who are the best players this year? Where will the SWC championship be played?

Comment on Sophia Bush sighting on airplane by Max

Max — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 16:24:39 +0000

Hard-hitting reporting over at the Duffle Bag, even on vacation. The news doesn’t sleep!

Comment on Top 10 returning SWC basketball players by James Hatte

James Hatte — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 11:47:09 +0000

Disregard that previous post, I did not realize it was only SWC players – I did not have my coffee yet.

Comment on Top 10 returning SWC basketball players by James Hatte

James Hatte — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 11:42:25 +0000

By far – the best player in the area is TJ Jackson, no one else is really even close. I assume you left him off the list because he was not eligible as a junior last year? The best team in the area will be Immaculate.

Comment on Abbott Tech’s Henry to CCRI by Donald C

Donald C — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 02:51:15 +0000

Kevin,

Anthony Henry made a great choice by playing a year at CCRI. He’ll get a year in and move on to a better college. He’ll play many mins at CCRI and he will not sit the bench. He’s a great player!

Donald C

Comment on Pelella: Why I want to be a journalist by docta deoss

docta deoss — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 06:04:37 +0000

merlin is the master of spell casting!

Comment on Abbott Tech’s Henry to CCRI by Lou LaPorte

Lou LaPorte — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 19:14:17 +0000

Kevin,
you live in new milford and have yet to mention a division 1 basketball player at ccsu. Mark LaPorte. a walk on and a member of the 12 man roster.
He was 2009 all area player from immaculate.

Comment on Pelella: Why I want to be a journalist by Merlin

Merlin — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 23:56:40 +0000

and that passion you see in them you got for sure so one day some kid will be writing his second or third article as a intern at some sports paper and your name will be one of those that people look up on wikipedia when he refers to past sports writing greats

Comment on Introducing guest columnist: Brent Pelella by SWCfan95

SWCfan95 — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 22:56:29 +0000

When will Brent start posting stories in his Blog? What is the truth about Croce, is he going to the Gunnery or finishing at Pomperaug and doing a PG year at Gunnery, will he play football this fall for Pomperaug or Gunnery? Who are the front runners for SWC football this season? Any predictions for Soccer in SWC for this Fall?

Comment on Top 25 area athletes in Class of 2011: Honorable Mention by Ben

Ben — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 18:06:57 +0000

I’m happy Chelsea is on this list and I think the voting will show she should have been part of the Top 25 athletes.

She is a great athlete but she is a better person and student.

She is a wonderful role model for my 10 year old daughter and six year old son.

Chelsea; Cortland next summer when the Jets are in training camp!!!!

Andrea Tarsi is another great girl from a great family! I used to ref her at the PAL building, she was a great teammate.

Comment on Top 25 area athletes in class of 2011 by George

George — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 16:23:14 +0000

I agree with Ben… WHERE IS CHELSEA??!!! She did everything, come on kevin.

Comment on Pelella: What it’s like to be on a team by Tim

Tim — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 02:30:57 +0000

Great article! Hope to see more from Brent soon.

Comment on Top 25 area athletes in class of 2011 by Ben

Ben — Tue, 05 Jul 2011 14:24:51 +0000

Where is Chelsea Dimyan on this list? She did everything for the New Fairfield Field Hockey and Lacrosse teams.

She should be on this list!!!

Comment on News-Times Cup Scoring System by Josh

Josh — Mon, 04 Jul 2011 15:18:25 +0000

where do i find all the schools scores??

Comment on Top 25 area athletes in class of 2011 by Kevin

Kevin — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 21:26:36 +0000

I actually was trying to look for it and I couldn’t find it…I remember that Tommy Jordan was No. 1, Chris Valenti was No. 2 and Maya Walton was No. 3, though

Comment on Top 25 area athletes in class of 2011 by Josh McIlson

Josh McIlson — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 15:52:40 +0000

Any ideas where to find the top 11 in 2011 article you did this time last year?

Comment on Top 25 area athletes in class of 2011 by Nelson

Nelson — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 02:21:21 +0000

No kids from Immaculate? How about Courtney Marra or Corey Medrano? 3 times all State 2 Times All New England and 3 times Helped lead there teams to State Titles.

Comment on Top 25 area athletes in class of 2011 by Kevin

Kevin — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 17:19:52 +0000

Mia is only a sophomore. The countdown pertains to seniors only…athletes graduating in the class of 2011

Comment on Top 25 area athletes in class of 2011 by Trish

Trish — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 13:25:33 +0000

Kevin,
Is Shepaug HS considered part of our area? One would have to consider Mia Landegren in the Class of 2011 athletes. Mia is a sophomore at Shepaug HS. She is presently in Bandon Dunes, OR to participate in the Championship round of U.S.Women’s Amateur Public Links play. This after being the Medalist in the qualifier that was played here in CT. She won 9 out of 12 high school meets this past season, playing for the boy’s team at Shepaug HS. In the CT Women’s Open, she finished in 11th place overall and 3rd best Amateur. She finished 4th in the Boy’s State Championship, shooting a 75 to the winner’s 72. Mia shows great promise in the golfing world.

Comment on Criteria for Top 25 athletes in Class of 2011 by Josh McIlson

Josh McIlson — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 17:08:44 +0000

http://playeroftheyear.gatorade.com/assets/writable/13324/2010-11_BTF_JWlasuk.pdf Only the second athlete in newtown hs history to get this award.

Comment on Top 25 area athletes in Class of 2011: Honorable Mention by Rosemary Pardalis

Rosemary Pardalis — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 16:05:40 +0000

Chelsea Dimyan and Andrea Tarsi are cousins and good friends!

Comment on Top 25 area athletes in Class of 2011: Honorable Mention by Macomber

Macomber — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 22:05:55 +0000

Go Chelsea!

Comment on News-Times Cup Scoring System by Brendan Rickert

Brendan Rickert — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 03:04:23 +0000

Kevin,

I think you have a good base for this formula, but I will say it does not accurately represent the best school. For example, strength of schedule is not included, which everyone would agree varies greatly from sport/conference. Also including individual achievements from sports (all conference, all state, school records even) could be included. I understand this is a huge undertaking but as last year would show, the current formula does not represent the best athletic schools

Comment on Criteria for Top 25 athletes in Class of 2011 by John Wlasuk

John Wlasuk — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 15:35:36 +0000

To C5, I don’t see where you can say that people put in 1/4 the effort are just a level behind me. I won state open shot put by almost 4 feet, and state open discus by 20 feet. I’m pretty sure that is more then 1 level behind. (Also who were the throwers that you are referencing in this statement)
Also just because you could finish 5th in an event in the decathlon means nothing, because everyone is in the same boat as you as far as practice goes.
I can just assume you come on here to get some sort of pleasure out of you life by saying your only far behind the top area athletes.
I think Sara’s comment was more directed at the talent vs skill aspect of football. Talent is someone natural ability and skill is something you have to work hard for. A sport like football you can get away being a running back off of a lot of talent (based on genetic size and running speed) where as a sport like throwing you need more skill then talent.
One last comment, your 130 foot discus throw would not get you out of a class meet meaning you are far from the top.

Comment on Criteria for Top 25 athletes in Class of 2011 by C5

C5 — Sat, 18 Jun 2011 01:42:33 +0000

Sara-
My whole post wasn’t directed at you just the one part where you didn’t give football any credit that running with a ball is no harder than running from home plate to first base or a lap around the track. I saw that Wlasuk out-shined every other throwing by a decent amount, my point was that the people who dedicated one-fourth of the time are just a level behind him. And besides Maxon and van Hoof, the other football players that threw are showing that they were well-rounded athletes, one ran in the same 100 meter heat as me, another was in a 4×400 relay, and I believe 2 others were in their 4x100s. Most of the competitors if they had all year to train and lift to get stronger and perfect their technique then they’d be putting up numbers close to his.
And actually, if I were to participate in the CIAC decathlon this week, assuming I’d throw the exact same distance, I would’ve came in 5th out of 38. So I think for a beginner who picked up the jav, took a couple steps and a crow hop, to throw it far enough to pick up about 436 points and the number 5 spot, I’m pretty sure I have some sort of skill. Sprints and jumps are my specialty, so a 5th place finish in one of my weaker events seems quite decent. And that’s granting that I wouldn’t throw it farther. And by the way my best shot would be 9th and my discus would be 12th, not the best but certainly not the worst. And Wlasuk’s junior PR was 160, I’m 30 behind with no practice whatsoever. As far as being a decathlete goes, I think I’m in pretty good shape. I look forward to emailing you.

Comment on Criteria for Top 25 athletes in Class of 2011 by John Wlasuk

John Wlasuk — Sat, 18 Jun 2011 01:07:17 +0000

Just to respond to few comments. Someone above mentioned an all state football player on a 3-7 team. I lead my team to a 10-3 record, and 5th in the state, and I am All New England.
You also mentioned me stepping out of a little cement circle, maybe you should come to NHS and practice with me and see if you can keep up in any sport, really I am up for the challenge. Email me @ johnnymanw93@aol.com
Also I do not think it should be held against me only being all new england 3 times in one sport.

Comment on Criteria for Top 25 athletes in Class of 2011 by Sara

Sara — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 14:27:28 +0000

Hello C5, I’m responding only b/c you said my name. I am retired and follow sports. Im tired of watching and hearing about football. Grown men chasing a football around in my opinion takes no skill.
Notice in my post I didn’t mention John Wlasuk. You did in your post. I have read week after week about this young man, a stand out in my opinion, not niche as Duffy states. This young athlete has made a name for himself and doesn’t need recognition by the newspaper to be number 1. In my book it appears he did this himself.
I did some research about your post. At SWC’s according to your placement above regarding football players competing in throwing events: There is only one football player Maxon, who threw in two events. The other football players only threw in one event. Wlasuk threw in all three events. So here are the throwing numbers:
Shot Put: 2nd, Torres 47’ 11 ¾” ; Maxon 4th 46’ 6” Wlasuk 56’ 8”
Discus : 3rd Maxon 153’ 2”; 4th van Hoof 144’; Smith 122’ 8” Wlasuk 171’ 6”
Javelin: 4th Bradshaw 159’ 3”; 5th Dias 150’; Joy 138’ 6” Wlasuk 189’ 7”
Wlasuk threw in all 3 events throwing shot put 10′ longer than 2nd place Torres, discus 20’ longer than Maxon and Javelin 30’ longer than Bradshaw.
My point that not one football player threw in all three events, and with your 7 football players, Wlasuk threw 60’ longer than all of them combined. Wlasuk sticks to one sport Track. It is extremely rare that a college thrower throws in all 3 events and even rarer that a high school athlete throws in all three events, let alone be number one in each of them. It is my understanding that the above football players ( throwers) did not advance on to New Englands or Nationals, where as Wlasuk did.
In my opinion it’s not about placing first, second or third. It comes down to numbers doing your best and at times, even beating your best time, distance, etc. This track stand out John Wlasuk, has proven to do this time and time again.
Oh and by the way Mr. Decathlete you picked up a jave and threw it 130, Wlasuk threw it 50′ feet farther, so I’m not sure if you yourself has a skill. Remember I’m just responding to your post, I didn’t start this. Practice shot, jave and disc for a few years, then get back to me sara.waters67@yahoo.com. I’ll be awaiting your email. Good Luck, Mr. Decathlete.

Comment on Criteria for Top 25 athletes in Class of 2011 by C5

C5 — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 01:12:28 +0000

I go both ways on the football team and do all decathlon events besides the 110 hurdles and pole vault.. I picked up the javelin in a meet vs Newtown where John Wlasuk was competing in and I threw 130. I understand he throws the jav 175-plus but even with me being more of a track enthusiast than a football enthusiast, I find it harder and more physically demanding to be a standout football player than a track athlete. And @Sara, you can’t say running with a football takes no talent, arguably, it’s the hardest sport to run in, period. More like anybody can run in an oval alongside a few other competitors. Not to take anything away from Wlasuk, he’s a remarkable athlete but his expertise is in an event which many football players excel at themselves. In the SWC championship, the athletes placing in 2nd and 4th in the shot put played football. For javelin, the athletes placing 4th, 5th, 6th, and 10th (was seeded 3rd) all played football. And for discus, the athletes placing 3rd, 4th, and 6th all played football. So basically those athletes who only devote 3 months a year towards throwing are close to a person who trains 12 months a year. If he were to play football as well and show that he could be athletic outside of the little cement circle, then hands down he should get a top vote. There’s an All-American lacrosse player at New Fairfield that with limited wingmen brought a team to the SWC championship and class MM semi-final. (Not to mention led a football team with literally NOBODY to 3 wins, putting the team on his back, as people like to say; an All-State player on a 3-7 football team? Easier said than done.) All-American or All-New England? There’s a question that shouldn’t need to be asked. John has top 10 potential, but there are many other athletes in the area that are top tier in multiple sports, not just a couple events.

Comment on Criteria for Top 25 athletes in Class of 2011 by Kevin

Kevin — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 23:06:03 +0000

The criteria does not affect Wlasuk, trust me. He is a once-in-a-lifetime thrower and he is treated as one on this countdown.

That was meant as a general rule of thumb. If you’re the eighth-best 100 meter sprinter in the state, you’re not going to be ranked over the eighth-best basketball player or a guy who excels on both sides of the ball in football.

Truth be told, when these rankings come out, you’ll see that there are more track athletes (7) than there are for any other sport.

Comment on Criteria for Top 25 athletes in Class of 2011 by Josh McIlson

Josh McIlson — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 22:57:29 +0000

Of course there are more kids that play football then throw javelin, football is a sport and javelin is an event in a sport. There are more javelin throwers then high school quarterbacks, this means it would be harder to be number 1.
Also its funny how it is sooooooo much harder to excel at football but every year you reporters find the best four local football players and make them out to be hero’s for their towns. Yet this once in a lifetime thrower for the Newtown area comes through and you make his accomplishments seem like nothing, because track is such an easy sport to excel at.
This year at New Englands I believe there was two, YES TWO, other male athlete other then Wlasuk, to win two events. (Amanze Williams of Naugatuck and a hurdler from New Hampshire) I am sure I can take your prized football players and find more then two athletes just like them in New England.
But maybe when you mentioned there being far less shot put and discus throwers then football players you meant far less New England champion shot put and discus throwers then football players. Then you would be correct.

Comment on Criteria for Top 25 athletes in Class of 2011 by Jamison

Jamison — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 19:39:43 +0000

You give the impression that you think throwing the javelin or the discus is easy. Why don’t you try it? I’ll bet you can throw a football and/or baseball with some level of skill. Do you think you can throw a discus or javelin with the same level of skill?

Given your bias obvious bias you should have two separate awards for individual sports and team sports then. Because unless an individual athlete sets a national record and goes straight to the US Olympic team, it’s not going to be as impressive as a quarterback whose team won the state title and he’s going on to play college ball at University of Nowhere and sit the bench.

Comment on Criteria for Top 25 athletes in Class of 2011 by Jim

Jim — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 12:49:42 +0000

be careful with private school kids who have used a loophole to stay eligible I know that if you looked into area schools they have players repeating grades just to try to improve their stock.

Comment on Criteria for Top 25 athletes in Class of 2011 by Kevin

Kevin — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 00:47:22 +0000

There are more high school athletes who play football than throw the jav…I’m not taking anything away from anybody, that’s just how the numbers are

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Laxallday

Laxallday — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 20:36:56 +0000

Ryan Mallon was also an All American this year.

Comment on Criteria for Top 25 athletes in Class of 2011 by Josh McIlson

Josh McIlson — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 19:21:02 +0000

How can you say there are far less competitors in shot put and discus then a sport like football? There is ONE quarterback on a team (That actually plays and maybe 2 back ups), I know the local teams have as many as 7-14 throwers, this means there are more people that do shot put and discus then play a position at another sport.
I cannot believe that you wrote that, that sounds like direct unappreciation for the sport, and disrespect for the athlete on your list that won new englands in both events.
Also I do not think that what college you are going to should effect this award. Who says you are going to the best athletic school you got in to? A lot more goes into the choice then the athletics.
What do you mean by niche sport? How is it harder to excel in a team sport then an individual sport? You can hide behind your teammates in a team sport but an individual sport is is black and white where you rank.

Comment on Criteria for Top 25 athletes in Class of 2011 by Kevin

Kevin — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 17:38:57 +0000

It takes incredible athletic ability to excel in football. It’s also a very complicated game that involves much more preparation than most other high school sports.

Comment on Criteria for Top 25 athletes in Class of 2011 by Sara

Sara — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 15:26:12 +0000

Based on sheer numbers, its harder to excel in football? It takes no talent to play a game like football. Anyone can run, with a ball.

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Number1 Fan

Number1 Fan — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 14:11:17 +0000

Looking at stats. Nyoshee was also All New England in the 4X100 Relay and the 200m runner up (2nd). All State LL 4X100, 200m champ and 100mh runner up (2nd), State Open 4X100,100mh champ and 200m runner up (2nd). FCIAC 100mh, 200m and 300mh champ! What an amazing year for her.

Sorry I am and will always be her #1 fan!

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Number1 Fan

Number1 Fan — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 14:02:15 +0000

Thanks for Nominating Nyoshee …. Over 4 years, Nyoshee and Maya have greatly impacted the DHS girls track team.

Huge accomplishments for Nyoshee who leaves DHS with 7 school Track & Field records. (45mh, 50mh, 55mh, 60mh, 100mh, 300mh and the Triple Jump)and came close to the 200m record @ 24.5 – school record 24.43.

I am sure she will miss the program and the great coaching she received.

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by oboa

oboa — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 01:30:19 +0000

wow kelsey heaton got totally robbed, 3 time all state in field hockey that is obsurd, she is the most athletic girl in the area by far and starred in 3 sports, its ridiculous that she received barely any votes

Comment on 2011 News-Times Cup by Kevin

Kevin — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 16:30:51 +0000

I think its great that the dance team won a title. They won’t be counted on this, though. I just did the rankings last night…some definite surprises

Comment on 2011 News-Times Cup by Bryan

Bryan — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 20:08:40 +0000

Makes sense. Assuming the number for Brookfield is divided by 20.33, 21 sports but one’s a 1/3 co-op. Though the Bobcats may petition for you to count their Dance team state title haha.

I think Pomperaug based on the strength of their fall sports, plus the hockey, baseball team, and the softball team’s surprising run to the SWC final will probably lead to the win.

Danbury is my darkhorse, being great in sports (except swimming) where they get two chances to rack up the state title points (Class and Open) help them. Losing the boys LL outdoor track title by one point and 3rd in LL boys cross country instead of the 15 runner-up points might be the difference in them winning the News-Times Cup

Comment on 2011 News-Times Cup by Kevin

Kevin — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 19:16:57 +0000

Co-op points are split…BBD splits theirs three ways and Watertown/Pomperaug, which won the SWC and state title, had to split theirs in half

Comment on 2011 News-Times Cup by Bryan

Bryan — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 18:28:30 +0000

Co-ops count as full points for a school or do say Bethel/Brookfield/Danbury split their hockey points in 3?

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Bryan

Bryan — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 18:18:47 +0000

David,
It’s comparing apples and oranges. Wlasuk and Walton’s accomplishments are more tangible, because we can see what they do in winning individual awards. The fact that they are accomplishing things on a national level are why they are #1 and #2 on my list. How many area athletes have we seen go on to play football at division one level? There are only two that I see according to scout.com since 2006, Scott Lutrus of Brookfield and Trevardo Williams of Canterbury who both went to UConn. Tommy Jordan was the #2 recruit in the state and is going to play for a top-10 program in Florida. It’ll be more likely we someone dominate New England’s in track before we see an area player go to a top 10 football program (though I’m crossing my fingers for Boeing Brown) Valenti plowed the way last year for Bethel’s running game to make the Wildcats football relevant for what seemed like the 1st time in 25 years, plus was top 4 in wrestling in the state.

Who I was surprised didn’t make this shortened list but I’m sure will be in the top 25 is Andrew Klutey of Ridgefield, three State Open titles in swimming in the 200 and 500 free along with the 200 free relay title. And Elizabeth McDonald of Pomperaug with two State Open titles in the 50 and 100 free as a junior. I’d probably have them ahead of a couple people on the shortened list.

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Kevin

Kevin — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 06:18:51 +0000

The decision has been made….certainly not an easy one

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by David Valazques

David Valazques — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 01:46:17 +0000

I think this award has to go to either Walton or Wlasuk, honestly they should tie. Look at what they have done, Walton 6 and Wlasuk 3 New England Championships. this mean they are the BEST IN NEW ENGLAND at what they do. Others will look at the sport and most athletes that get press are mainstream sporters. Everyone underestimates track and field athletes because, honestly, how many people have ever tried to long jump or chuck a shot put? Not many. Someone above said something about Valenti and Wlasuk and shot put. Valenti was a local star at what he did, but big and strong does not equal a good shot putter. Think of all the time and effort that goes into being the BEST IN NEW ENGLAND, multiple times.
Some might mention the kid going to Florida for football as being a reason to get this award but what does that have to do with being the best in the area? The coach there sees something in him, but is he the best in new england? Probably not.
Walton and Wlasuk should definatly tie, or be 1 and 2 for this award.

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Joe

Joe — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 19:36:28 +0000

Wlasuk is an incredible athlete. most underestimate just how great his achievements have been do to lack of knowledge in the track and field world. Dominating CT, New England, and making a scene in the national track and field world is incredible, nevermind in three throws events. Wlasuk deserves this by far.

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Hatters Pride

Hatters Pride — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 16:14:01 +0000

Maya Walton concluded her season yesterday with her 5th and 6th All-New England Titles. Might I also add Nyoshee Lowry rocketed her way to a 2nd place finish in the 200, an event she had never run until this season. Both hard working, All-American athletes and teammates who deserve the proper recognition for their accomplishments!

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Kevin Jonathon

Kevin Jonathon — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 03:17:59 +0000

Let also not forget Wlasuk doubled at new englands today, winning the shot put and discus. Thats 3 new england, 3 state open, 3 class LL and 4 SWC Championships this year for him.

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by anthony

anthony — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 23:51:30 +0000

Willie Maxen?

Comment on Who’s Better Than Kemba? by Marc

Marc — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 16:21:53 +0000

You must not have watched much college basketball in the past 25 years. Bobby Hurley 2 championships is the first that comes to mind. Mateen Cleaves 2 championships, Allen Iverson, and many more. Kemba’s not even the best point guard from UCONN or the best player ever from UCONN according to your poll. Do some more research.

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Kevin

Kevin — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 15:47:14 +0000

Tony, No Testani because this is only for athletes in The News-Times circulation. Monroe receives The Connecticut Post. If he was in our circulation, though, he’d certainly be on this list.

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Lawrence C.

Lawrence C. — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 14:16:57 +0000

Jackie Nicholas ran well throughout Cross and Track placing high in New England’s, she should definitely be in the top 25.

Austin Baldour ran well in Cross and Track this year being a contributor to Newtown.

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Lawrence C.

Lawrence C. — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 14:09:38 +0000

Definitely John Wlasuk for the #1 spot of the class of 2011. He places high in everything (SWC’s, Loucks, LL’s, Opens, New Englands, Nationals, etc.) and usually wins the events he throws in.

2nd is Alex Levine he ran a great race at the Dream Invite and in Opens.

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Aaron Nezvesky

Aaron Nezvesky — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 13:48:54 +0000

I was a teammate of John’s and he has an unbelievable talent. I have never seen someone who has as much dedication as John Wlasuk. Not only was he amazing in the Discus and Shotput, but he was also amazing in the Javelin. He deserves this!

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Kevin Jonathon

Kevin Jonathon — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 13:35:37 +0000

There is not team scoring @ the new england track meet. Also as for Valenti throwing shot put, he tried his junior year, and threw around 40 feet to Wlasuk’s 53+

From someone who has spoken to Wlasuk himself, he used not being on the athletes to watch in 2011, not sure the exact title but it was around August, to motivate himself.

Also on the track side I think it is important to note that Wlasuk scored 24 points at the State Open meet, meaning only FOUR teams beat him.

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Tim

Tim — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 13:29:34 +0000

Valenti tried shot put last season, as a junior and threw around 40 feet. Maybe with a little more practice he would’ve approached 50 this year but getting up to 59 or so would be tough.

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Mik

Mik — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 11:55:47 +0000

For the 2011 top 25, I would definitely include Pat Gillen (check spelling)
for wrestling.

Also, I think Nate Ryan all FCIAC football, lacrosse

and finally i would look at Mike Frasco and Tyler Schwarz (running)

Comment on The Top 25 area athletes of 2010 by tony Milone

tony Milone — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 09:48:11 +0000

To leave Jon Testani Masuk High School football and baseball off this list is is shameful.

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Bryan

Bryan — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 18:36:02 +0000

Every time I look I ended up with a different 3.

This time I think
Tier One
Walton
Wlasuk
Valenti-I wonder what if he had tried the shot put for spring, how he could’ve compared to Wlasuk.

Tier Two
Levine
Jordan
Pelella
Heaton
Lowry

Tier Three
Fay
Kelly
Mallon
Brophy
Silverman
Nacewicz

I can only imagine if Wlasuk can pull off enough points at New England’s to have Newtown contending for the title.

I’m sure if I look again tonight I’d have a completely different order, like I want to have Brian Kelly higher, but I don’t think I can in this group. And I think I have a slight bias to the track athletes, cause you can see that they are the best at their event, vs. say the general “all-state” for Brian Fay. Either way a fine list of athletes.

Comment on Who’s No. 1 in the Class of 2011? by Macomber

Macomber — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 11:17:38 +0000

Good Luck

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by Swc round | Besttwinksmpegs

Swc round | Besttwinksmpegs — Mon, 30 May 2011 16:01:21 +0000

[...] Around the SWC: Week 9 – The Duffle Bag – Connecticut NewsSWC Championship Game: Masuk at Newtown, Wednesday, Nov. 24@ 7 p.m. Word is Blue and Gold Stadium will be ready to go for this one. … SWC Player of the Week … A year round effort, a strong off season program and the results showed. [...]

Comment on NCAA Lacrosse Semifinals have Danbury flavor by Jim Murphy

Jim Murphy — Thu, 26 May 2011 17:44:05 +0000

Actually, Connecticut as a whole is pretty well-represented, just by looking at Duke’s roster. Weston, Westport, Avon, Darien; a few prep schools. I wouldn’t doubt that the other schools in the tourney have a bunch of players from CT. Women’s Lax as well. The days of Long Island and Maryland being the only place to get players is long gone.

Comment on Who’s Going Where: The Master List for 2011 by FCIACsuperfan

FCIACsuperfan — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 15:47:51 +0000

did the newstimes publish all area hoop teams for 2011?

Comment on Who’s Better Than Kemba? by Mike

Mike — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 21:07:52 +0000

There were some amazing point guards just this season! You’ve got to at least mention these players (who some experts would consider are at/above Kemba’s level)and then talk about the point guards of all time that you’re saying Kemba is better than.

Comment on About Kevin Duffy by Matt

Matt — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 17:25:11 +0000

kevin

Your articles are awful and most of the time very foolish.. you have driven my family (12 year suscribers) to stop are subscription to the news times. I still read online every now and then to laugh at your thoughts and lack of knowledge in the area’s you choose to write, so please take your time else where and stop ruining what was a very enjoyable newspaper to read.

Comment on About Kevin Duffy by keith

keith — Sat, 02 Apr 2011 16:54:36 +0000

That article about ryan toussiant, though not badly written, seemed purposeless.

Comment on Who’s Going Where: The Master List for 2011 by FciacLL

FciacLL — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 03:05:59 +0000

Andrew Klutey is swimming at Princeton

Comment on The SWC Crystal Ball: State Playoffs by sean

sean — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 17:45:27 +0000

stratford bassick Class L final

Comment on Pick Your SWC Boys Basketball Champion by Tweets that mention Pick Your SWC Boys Basketball Champion - The Duffle Bag - Connecticut News -- Topsy.com

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 05:07:22 +0000

[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Danbury NT Sports, Sean Patrick Bowley. Sean Patrick Bowley said: RT @DuffyNewsTimes: Pick your SWC boys basketball champion http://is.gd/UFqDFj #ctbb [...]

Comment on Unofficial SWC boys basketball playoff pairings by Tweets that mention Unofficial SWC boys basketball playoff pairings - The Duffle Bag - Connecticut News -- Topsy.com

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 03:25:01 +0000

[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Henry Chisholm, Henry Chisholm and Sean Patrick Bowley, Kevin Duffy. Kevin Duffy said: SWC boys basketball pairings http://is.gd/dFhbeq #ctbb [...]

Comment on SWC Boys Basketball Playoff Picture by james jackson

james jackson — Wed, 23 Feb 2011 06:03:40 +0000

Why is Stratford seeded higher than Kolbe,when Kolbe beat them.

Comment on SWC Boys Basketball Playoff Picture by Brook Fan

Brook Fan — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 21:36:17 +0000

Where does Brookfield seed if they finish at 8-6, or in a 4 way tie?

Comment on SWC Boys Basketball Playoff Picture by Tweets that mention SWC Boys Basketball Playoff Picture - The Duffle Bag - Connecticut News -- Topsy.com

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 20:09:25 +0000

[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by brodeurdnt, Kevin Duffy. Kevin Duffy said: SWC playoff picture…this was not easy to figure out http://is.gd/HJr6i7 #ctbb [...]

Comment on Down the home stretch: SWC boys basketball by Tweets that mention Down the home stretch: SWC boys basketball - The Duffle Bag - Connecticut News -- Topsy.com

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 20:26:44 +0000

[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Conn. Post Sports, Kevin Duffy. Kevin Duffy said: SWC boys basketball update http://is.gd/6wa6T8 #ctbb [...]

Comment on Update: SWC boys basketball by James jackson

James jackson — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 17:00:59 +0000

Notre Dame is lookning very strong they have two big games this week (Masuk,Stratford)

Comment on Update: SWC boys basketball by James jackson

James jackson — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 16:57:36 +0000

The SWC is wide open, i think Kolbe will make a late run and be in the finals.DJ Perry is having a great year and Cosrick McDonald has been scoring as of late.

Comment on Update: SWC boys basketball by Tweets that mention Update: SWC boys basketball - The Duffle Bag - Connecticut News -- Topsy.com

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:25:01 +0000

[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Sean Patrick Bowley, Kevin Duffy. Kevin Duffy said: Update in SWC boys basketball http://is.gd/o9iU9V #ctbb [...]

Comment on Projection: Top 11 of ’11 by The duffle bag | Selec-Traveller

The duffle bag | Selec-Traveller — Sun, 16 Jan 2011 17:39:07 +0000

[...] Projection: Top 11 of '11 – The Duffle Bag – Connecticut News [...]

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 3 by The duffle bag | Selec-Traveller

The duffle bag | Selec-Traveller — Sun, 16 Jan 2011 17:38:49 +0000

[...] Around the SWC: Week 3 – The Duffle Bag – Connecticut News [...]

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 2 by Donald C

Donald C — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 05:06:15 +0000

Kevin,

The top 5 teams in the SWC…Pomp, ND-Fairfield, Stratford, Bethel and Kolbe……Next year ND, Stratford, Kolbe will have most there players coming back. Dwayne Richardson is a not a bad player for the league Tech is in. I wonder how he would do in the FCICA???? Dan M. from IHS is a good player to. The other night against Kolbe, he was held to 3pts and IHS lost by 17 pts. This Friday IHS plays ND-Fairfield. They have a very good guard in Trey P. I don’t think IHS will match up against them, or Stratford. I would not count Bethel out yet. Lets see how they do against ND, Stratford and Kolbe!

Comment on Projection: Top 11 of ’11 by Fanofsportsnf

Fanofsportsnf — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 20:49:55 +0000

@ college pro there are 1 sport players on this list.

Comment on Who’s No. 1? by Seen'em'all

Seen'em'all — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 05:27:38 +0000

http://www.highschoolsports.net/massey/NationalChampionship/Football/Varsity/Boys/2010/

As I said earlier, Masuk was the best team Conn has seen in 15 years. And, low and behold, the national computer agrees. Check out the USA Today link. The virtual national championship… Masuk killed Central Catholic High School from Allentown, PA [who was 16-0]… Then they beat a GREAT Bergen Catholic team [ironic how I was telling my New Jersey buddies all season that Masuk WOULD beat Bergen and they kept saying "Conn football is a JOKE." Right... some joke.]… then Masuk lost to Don Bosco 40-21. Would’ve been closer than that if they actually played. Yes, it’s just a computer, but the algorithms USA Today uses is wild. SO PLEASE: This Masuk team was SICK. I saw both Masuk and Xavier numerous times. Not even close. Xavier, very tough team. But, Masuk was a team that really would have gone out of state and played with anyone, anywhere. And Masuk would have thumped Trumbull 45-0. Case closed. Thanks for watching.

Comment on Projection: Top 11 of ’11 by CollegePro

CollegePro — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 13:39:38 +0000

No disrespect to these incredible athletes, but just because an athlete has decided to concentrate on one sport, should not automatically disqualify him/her from being a top athlete. I believe you could be sending the wrong message. Afterall, how many 2 or 3 sport high school athletes really excel at one of those sports (especially the 3 sport athlete) and how many of them receive scholarships to play in college? How many of them play at a very high competitive level outside of high school season? Probably none since when would they have the time. What about the athlete who has reached exceptional high level of success in their chosen sport and has received a scholarship to play at the college level? I know a number of highly athletic high school kids that played multiple sports prior to high school but decided to concentrate on the one they had the most passion for and have succeeded to rise to exceptionaly high levels in that sport. Now, that is an top athlete with an incredible will to succeed! That is who I would want on my college team.

Comment on Projection: Top 11 of ’11 by Tweets that mention Projection: Top 11 of ’11 - The Duffle Bag - Connecticut News -- Topsy.com

Sun, 09 Jan 2011 22:01:36 +0000

[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by brodeurdnt. brodeurdnt said: RT @DuffyNewsTimes: Early look at top area athletes in Class of 2011 http://is.gd/krAEy #ctbb #ctfb #ctgb #ctfh [...]

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 2 by James Wickenstaff

James Wickenstaff — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 16:59:42 +0000

Hey Kevin,

This kid Dan is great ! I watched him and Abbott Tech’s Dwayne Richardson go at it this week. There both two great players but I think you need to look into Abbott Tech more . Though their record isnt good , and they arent what they used to be , this kid Dwayne is under everyones radar. Hes a great player that can hit the outside three and 3 of his last 4 games , he has scored 22 points and above . Including a 28 point game just recently ! He is being recruited by D3 and D2 colleges , I think you really need to check him out.

Bethel, is going to be a problem , though they just lost their last game they have the perfect height , and versatility as a team to stay with anyone !

Immaculate, im not sure on , something about them just doesn’t click with me.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 2 by sharon collins

sharon collins — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 13:13:27 +0000

Hi Kevin, I am refering to the picture above your article, “Danbury Slams Warde”. It appears that Eddie Garcia is punching his opponent, Nate Marsili in the nose, or worse yet flattening it to stop him from breathing. Is this move allowed in high school wrestling? It looks more like what you see on the “entertainment wrestling” on TV.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 4 by Mary Pingtown

Mary Pingtown — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 17:13:33 +0000

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Comment on All-SWC Football Announced by Jimmy Burger

Jimmy Burger — Sun, 02 Jan 2011 14:41:27 +0000

Joel Barlow was 2-8 and nobody on the team should be all-conference

Comment on It’s been awhile….but Around the SWC is back by Donald C

Donald C — Thu, 30 Dec 2010 06:58:39 +0000

Lady Rebel, I am sorry but Danbury make a very good move by hiring Coach Bock. He was an outstanding player at DHS, and played college ball at Western CT. He was also the asst coach for Westconn. He is a great teacher, and he knows the game of basketball really well. It was time for Pardalis and the JV coach to leave. Pardalis and his asst did not win a thing in all the years he was coach at DHS. He had some great players to come through DHS, and he could not get the job done. Coach Bock will turn the program around at DHS. It will not happen over night, but he will have a winning program down the road.
Oh by the way, Coach Boch is not a rookie. Check your facts, before you make a comment. Coach Bock is also a few players short(very good players) right now. If he had those to players, he would be at least 500 or better.

Comment on It’s been awhile….but Around the SWC is back by Lady Rebel

Lady Rebel — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 14:39:14 +0000

Maybe the Danbury AD hired the wrong coach if the team doesn’t show up. A lot of that comes from the coach. He should have kept Pardalis’ JV coach and not hire some Rookie barely older than his players.

Comment on It’s been awhile….but Around the SWC is back by Donald C

Donald C — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 05:38:35 +0000

Duffy,

There is no question McCorkle is a good player. He is quick, and can hit the 3. I wonder how he would do if he played in the
FCICA?? Even though the FCICA is down this year. I wonder if he would be putting up the numbers he is, if he played against some of the tough players in the FCICA. The test will be when he plays against
ND-Fairfield, Stratford and Kolbe of Bpt. They have some very quick players, who will be able to keep up with him. D. McCorkle is still a very good player.

Comment on It’s been awhile….but Around the SWC is back by swcfan

swcfan — Tue, 28 Dec 2010 15:25:01 +0000

Its very dissapointing to see danbury thus far they lost to a good new fairfield team who was big and played great defense but looked totally out of their element against a new milford team they most definately should have beaten. Hopefully they can turn this around….

Comment on It’s been awhile….but Around the SWC is back by james madison

james madison — Sun, 26 Dec 2010 18:07:18 +0000

Reason for the Present Condition of the U.S.A. Economy

The top U.S. politicians in Washington, D.C. decided, under the direction of the billion dollar defense contractors and their professional lobbyists, to engage in yet another (Viet Nam style) illegal war campaign. This time in the Middle East Region.

There is no conscription policy currently being used (by the top U.S. politicians in Washington, D.C.).

To achieve the goals of the billion dollar defense industry therefore, it is necessary to orchestrate a 15% layoff policy of the Non-Affluent Working Class Citizens in the U.S.A.

In that manner the military quota for boots is met. If there are no good jobs available to the Non-Affluent Working Class Citizens , they will “volunteer” to join the army.

The Non-Affluent Working Class Citizens are the people who are used, by the top U.S. politicians in Washington, D.C. to actually fight such illegal wars. The wealthiest citizens don’t get their own boots, or those of their sons and daughters, muddy. It could prove to be hazardous to their health. Simple history research will easily bear out the fact that money is often used by the affluent to keep ones boots clean. Simple research early as the Viet Nam Era U.S. history, will prove that to be accurate. Ever heard the terminology “School Deferment”? Look it up.

The senior (over 55 years of age) Non-Affluent Working Class Citizens are residual subjects. By them being laid off from their employment, the top U.S. politicians in Washington, D.C. are assuring that less money will be spent on the entitlement programs in the near future, and beyond. Simple research will easily prove that to be accurate. I shall expose the details for that in my next article.

Author: James Madison, IV
12/22/2010 A.D.

Comment on It’s been awhile….but Around the SWC is back by Pat

Pat — Sat, 25 Dec 2010 19:15:18 +0000

Interesting comments from Danbury High coach Boch after his second consecutive loss to New Milford, “..team we should beat..talent wise we’re better..we did not show up” This does not look so good the next day, from a young coach with a struggling program. You should never expect to beat a team, that is why the games are played. Talent amount is debateable, it is a team sport. Motivation and “showing up” comes from the athletes, as well as the coach. I say stop with the excuses (all to common today)have some accountability and just state the obvious. That is you got beat by a team that came into your house and played well enough to win. Good luck to both teams the rest of the season.

Comment on All-SWC Football Announced by Donald C

Donald C — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 03:29:18 +0000

I agree(100%) with the comment the SWC fan made. I think what he says is (100%) true. How can you list players on the 1st team, that did not even win a game? You should give credit, were credit is do!

Comment on All-SWC Football Announced by money23

money23 — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 03:06:31 +0000

patrick jordan from new milford should have been on the first team, same with bunnells jawad chisholm, this list just proves that unless u were a big name or well known u werent going to get 1st team. the coaches are all idiots, the players are not properly selected at all.

Comment on Who’s No. 1? by roto

roto — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 20:58:28 +0000

@cthsfbfan. I didn’t write @5 to take a position against Masuk. I was just pointing out that leaning on margin of victory over SWC opponents and talking up some of those teams is perhaps not Masuk’s best argument.

Re: Darien. They seem to have been a different team after the suspensions. I’m not saying they would have given Masuk a game, but something happened to that team in between the time they played Trumbull and the time they got smoked by New Canaan. A win over Wethersfield is nothing special.

People seem to forget Trumbull also beat St. Joes pretty good the night before Thanksgiving, after Matekevich (sp) came back and after St. Joe’s beat New Canaan. Now St. Joe’s beats Ansonia, and all of a sudden people are openly voting them #4, #3, even #2 (which is insane). Doesn’t make any sense to me.

Xavier beat ND-WH who beat Hand by a greater margin than New Canaan did.

In any event, Xavier isn’t going to blow any decent team out. They win by pounding their opponent into submission, controlling the clock, and playing punishing defense. Based on how Masuk beat NC I’m not sure Xavier could hang with them but my purpose wasn’t to come over here to talk up Xavier.

Comment on Who’s No. 1? by cthsfbfan

cthsfbfan — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 19:18:28 +0000

Roto – I get your point and respect it. Your argument certainly carries some sway. I’m giving you that the SCC is stronger than SWC. No doubt. But what you didn’t take into account is that Xavier beat a Trumbull team by 13 that LOST to Darien just 2 weeks ago. That same Darien team lost to Masuk 41 – 0! If Darien is not a quality opponent then Trumbull certainly isn’t. And then there is New Canaan which handled SCC-1 loss Hand by a couple of scores, and then lost to Masuk by 30. You can argue leagues, but Xavier had its cupcakes this year too (Amity, Hamden, Prep). Yes Xavier plays in a tougher league and had a rougher schedule. But yes, Masuk is clearly a better team this year. Love to know your thoughts on Xavier/Trumbull/Darien/New Canaan thought.

Comment on Who’s No. 1? by frank costanza

frank costanza — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 17:57:49 +0000

Masuk played a much better team in the finals then Xavier did. New Canaan will probably be ranked no lower than fourth and Masuk handled them with ease in the second half. This Mausuk team is a once every ten year team in the state. They should be ranked in the top ten or twenty teams to ever lace them up in CT. history. People don’t realize how good New Canaan was. Xavier is also a great team but in my opinion they would be outscored by two or three touchdowns by Masuk.

Comment on Who’s No. 1? by Dee2

Dee2 — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 15:40:23 +0000

Xavier #1. Masuk is an exceptional football team but strength of schedule alone gives it clearly to Xavier. Please don’t argue that Xavier draws from all over so it has an advantage. PUBLIC schools like Masuk have the advantage – kids come into HS having already played several years together and have a solidified team – Xavier – and other schools like them – have a real disadvantage if anything. Hopefully, the people making the decisions will truly be OBJECTIVE and not just let fan groundswell decide. Ct POST reports the best sports coverage BUT shouldn’t be allowed to sway the voters. Xavier #1 – Masuk – a strong and respectable #2

Comment on Who’s No. 1? by Ed

Ed — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 15:22:28 +0000

Everyone can debate all they would like. I always follow FCIAC football and believe it to be stronger than the SWC as a whole however, Masuk is the real deal. You can say Masuk plays cupcakes all season. You can say Xavier plays a tough schedule. That tough schedule is great and all… but when you beat the 3rd or 4th team in the FCIAC by 11 in the state championship something doesn’t quite work. Masuk took the FCIAC crown right off Darien with a 41-0… I would say Darien/NC are 1 and 2 in the FCIAC regardless who won the crown. Masuk defeats each team 41-0 + 50-20 = 91 – 20 …. Xavier didn’t even score 91 points in three games in the state tournament. Bottom line is that Masuk has an offense that has to many athletes. You can take 5 of there players drop them on 5 different teams in the state and they would be the star of their team. The speed that some of these guys have is already on the next level and that is shown every time they are on the field. Now with that said there is not a football team in the state that can cover these kids because the ball is going to be put where they can catch it. And lets not even talk about when they went into their running formation at the end of the state championship and were taking 12 yards at a time with ease. Xavier wins the state championship. Masuk wins the state championship. Masuk took an offensive juggernaut and dismantled them. Xavier took a plus Trumbull team and won the game. 2 FCIAC teams. Who were pretty high powered and I think everyone would agree that New Canaan was better equipped. I would have like to have seen Xavier crush Trumbull and finish out with that number one seed just to keep question out of the air. But Masuk took that better equipped FCIAC team and showed exactly why they are the best football team in Connecticut. And we didn’t even talk about defense.

Comment on Who’s No. 1? by cthsfbfan

cthsfbfan — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 14:26:32 +0000

I looked very carefully at the wins each team had. I think one team is clearly deserving of #1.

1. Xavier’s best three wins were ND-WH by 7, WH by 14 and Trumbull by 13. Of those, ND-WH was most impressive to me. They also had good wins against Cheshire (3), Shelton (7) and Hillhouse (3), although Cheshire and Shelton were certainly not vintage teams. Their blowout wins were against Hamden, Foran and Prep (not exactly juggernauts). They had a very weak win over Middletown. They didn’t play Hand.

2. Masuk’s best wins were New Canaan by 30, Newtown by 42 and Pomperaug by 42. They also had good wins against Darien (41), Brookfield (42) and Bristol Eastern (26). B.E. is from a weaker conference and Darien had players hurt and suspended. Overall, Masuk simply dominated every opponent in all facets of the game (they held NC to 29 total yards in the second half and Pomperaug to something like 33 yards in the whole game).

3. Opponents. A shotgun thought is that the SCC is stronger than the SWC. Not many people who know anything would argue with that. But let’s look at the exact opponents each faced. This year’s SCC powers were (obviously) Xavier, followed by ND-WH, Hand, WH and The House. Hillhouse had losses to Lyman Hall and Cheshire. They did not play Hand, but Hand won every game in the SCC except ND-WH. FCIAC’s New Canaan beat Hand by 18 and then lost to Masuk by 30! Hand beat Cheshire. Cheshire lost by 3 to Xavier. Not 30. Trumbull lost to Stamford and yet hung in there with Xavier. I don’t think the schedules are as lopsided as some do. I saw Xavier, Trumbull, Cheshire, Shelton, Masuk, Pomperaug, Newtown, Bristol Eastern and West Haven play this year. In my opinion, Trumbull, Cheshire and Shelton are absolutely not better than Pomperaug, Newtown and Bristol Eastern.

4. Final Thoughts: Masuk scored more points and allowed fewer points than any team in the state this year, while Xavier literally squeaked by Cheshire, Hillhouse and Shelton. Those three games could have gone either way. Which game that Masuk played could have gone either way???

5. Conclusion: Masuk is the best team in the state this year. I don’t think that’s the way the poll will come out, but that’s the way I saw it this year.

Comment on Who’s No. 1? by roto

roto — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 13:24:52 +0000

If you believe Masuk would beat Xavier head-to-head, that is a valid opinion and your prerogative. But I disagree with your assertion that the SWC teams you mentioned would “hang” in other conferences at records anywhere near where they finished this year in the SWC.

Quick, who was the second best team in the SWC this year? Brookfield?

They lost 30-12 to New London, who was then beaten by a 3-loss Hillhouse team who plays in SCC D-II (i.e. an easier schedule made up of the smaller SCC schools).

Pomperaug, Newtown and Bunnell would all play in SCC-Division I based on their enrollment. They wouldn’t be playing the Westons and Immaculates of the world. This season, they didn’t seem materially better to me than Cheshire (5-5) or Wilbur Cross (4-6).

MaxPreps, which uses a completely objective computer system, has Masuk as the #1 team and that is being pointed to by some Masuk supporters as validation of where they should be ranked. Fine, but let’s look at the rest of the SWC. MaxPreps only publishes the top 23 for free without a subscription, and after Masuk the next SWC team is Brookfield at #15. Pomperaug is the only other SWC team on the list at #16.

After Xavier, SCC teams include #7 Hand, #8 Notre Dame-WH, #9 Hillhouse, #11 West Haven, #18 Cheshire, #19 North Haven. FCIAC teams include #3 NC, #4 Darien, #5 St. Joes, #6 Trumbull, #13 Staples. After Masuk, would the SWC teams you mentioned fare well against this competition? Although some teams luck out with easy schedules in the FCIAC, SCC D-I teams play 7-8 games against other D-I teams.

Comment on Who’s No. 1? by Kevin

Kevin — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 06:04:48 +0000

I’ve seen quite a few HS football games. These SWC teams that Masuk pounded (Brookfield, Pomperaug, Newtown, Bunnell)…trust me, they can hang in the the other conferences.

Comment on Who’s No. 1? by Kevin- you don't get it

Kevin- you don't get it — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 03:51:24 +0000

Kevin – your article today about Masuk being #1 did not make sense. Have you even seen any high school football games. And, to say since Xavier has an NFL player, they were ranked higher preseason is ludricous. Reputation? Masuk had more state titles than Xavier did in last decade or so.

And you seen how weak the SWC is… however, Masuk is a GREAT team and deserves to be #1 just as much as Xavier, but your article didn’t make sense.

Comment on Who’s No. 1? by Kevin

Kevin — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 00:33:52 +0000

Radio TV, I’m not sure how else you want us to judge these teams.

If Masuk is beating teams 49-7 (and hanging 50 points on FCIAC powers), I don’t know how you can make an argument for a Xavier team that wins closer games.

Look, they both win — but Masuk DOMINATES in every aspect. If Masuk played Xavier, the Panthers would score 30 points or so (by far the fewest they’ve scored this year) and that would be enough to win the game.

Just my opinion.

Comment on Who’s No. 1? by Radio TV

Radio TV — Sun, 12 Dec 2010 22:38:08 +0000

I am not quite sure why the scores have anything to do with that. The coaches have has much to say about that as anything. I watched the Panthers throw the ball to inside the 20 just to take 4 knees. Xavier has been 1 all year and did nothing to relinquish that. They defeated an FCIAC finalist. The same team that beat arguably the best FCIAC team on Thankgiving. Shame on all of you if you feel margin of victory is a way of telling if a team is great. All year long the teams that Xavier played are far superior than those of the SWC. If you think differently than you are not watching with open minds…

Comment on All-SWC Football Announced by BFAN

BFAN — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 23:10:31 +0000

Who is Valdir Nepomuceno?

Comment on All-SWC Football Announced by Enzo

Enzo — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 19:40:34 +0000

Congrat’s to all!!

Comment on All-SWC Football Announced by SWCfan

SWCfan — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 02:43:58 +0000

Wow, this is a long list, seems a lot of gimmie’s for teams that had little success, but it is what it is. Did they post an Honorable Mention or is this all in? In the old days you really had to be a stand out to make All-Conference, but now you just need to show up…

There are about 5-6 kids on the 2nd team that should be on 1st team for sure, and several kids on 1st team that should not be on it at all or certainly to 2nd team. Chisolm from Bunnell, Brown from Brookfield, Birdsell from Bethel and Fenaroli from Newtown, should all be 1st Team. Also seems all the Masuk players listed should be all 1st team, those receivers did the work. Cannot see why so many from Immaculate, New Fairfield, or New Milford were listed on 1st Team and as well Castelot from Bunnell, it was his WR’s that did the work – he is a 2nd team if anything – but stats must be all they looked at in voting, yet that still does not make sense then for the many on 1st team. Chisholm should be 1st team over Castelot.

Comment on All-SWC Football Announced by catholickid

catholickid — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 01:39:47 +0000

50 players on the 1st team? … why not give everyone who participated a 1st team trophy! … This way, less coaches will get fired this winter!

Comment on Around the SWC: Post Turkey Day/Post Regular Season by Jeff

Jeff — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 15:32:15 +0000

Masuk is good this year, but if you go to back to the early 90′s Newtown High School teams, they were unstoppable in he SWC. They are the main reason Newtown has the stadium they have now.

Comment on Around the SWC: Two remain by Big Foster

Big Foster — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 18:08:18 +0000

Brookfield 40, New London 16

New London is very good, but the southeastern area of Connecticut always underestimates the SWC as a result of listening to the Courant, New Haven Register and channel 8 and 3. The SWC is one of the best conferences in the state.

Comment on SWC Postseason Awards by Bryan

Bryan — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 06:25:35 +0000

Coach Angarano has 6 state appearances in 12 seasons

’99 (his first season), ’03, ’04, ’05, ’08, ’10

With an SWC and State title in 2008, made the finals in ’03, ’04, ’05 and hopefully soon in 2010.

And was one win from getting in for the 2000 season.

Comment on Masuk’s Cochran Named CT Gatorade Player of the Year….Who Gets Your Vote? by Bryan

Bryan — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 05:51:25 +0000

As I said when filling out regional player of the year on Bowley’s blog

If it’s player of the year based on stats
It’s close to me between Cochran and Dobbs, I would’ve voted Cochran

If it’s most VALUABLE
It’s Kelly or Jon Testani of Masuk to me, my Brookfield bias gives it to Kelly

Comment on Masuk’s Cochran Named CT Gatorade Player of the Year….Who Gets Your Vote? by fciac > NVL

fciac > NVL — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 03:14:01 +0000

Kevin Macari should have won the award, feel free to give him some credit on this poll.

Comment on Masuk’s Cochran Named CT Gatorade Player of the Year….Who Gets Your Vote? by Remmy

Remmy — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 20:32:46 +0000

Dobbs actually has 2,744 yards rushing and 37 rushing TDs in 10 games this season.

Congratulations to Cochran. Awesome athlete and well-deserved!!!!!

Comment on Around the SWC: Two remain by Bryan

Bryan — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 23:28:51 +0000

Fair predictions…I do like both SWC teams in these matchups, some familiarity with Brookfield on Bunnell’s field, they won the 2008 SWC Title there over Newtown

Brookfield 38 New London 30

Masuk was tested Bristol Eastern more than anyone thought they would, Panthers can’t overlook the FCIAC champs and I don’t think they will

Masuk 47 Darien 13

Comment on SWC Postseason Awards by Lou

Lou — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 22:45:17 +0000

Coach Angarano deserves a tremendous amount of credit for making the States for the 5th(?)time and after a rough 2009 season. In my mind, he is in the discussion, along with Coach Drury and Coach Murphy, as the best coach in the SWC.

Comment on SWC Postseason Awards by Kevin

Kevin — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 21:57:38 +0000

FootballInfo — His name is Matt Paola. He was injured in the 2nd game of the season this year and ended up missing the entire season.

Comment on SWC Postseason Awards by FootballInfo

FootballInfo — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 21:26:31 +0000

Kevin – whoever the kicker was from Pomperaug last year had the strongest leg I’ve seen from a kicker in CT. He was only 15 years old and kicked 6 or 7 kickoffs into and out of the end zone against masuk in the SWC championships. More impressive than Testani last year. Who is he and why didn’t he kick this year?

Comment on Around the SWC: Post Turkey Day/Post Regular Season by Mike

Mike — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 19:18:44 +0000

“Please, give me an SWC team from the past that can beat these Panthers. I’d love to hear it.”

2008 and 2004 Brookfield teams would be a good matchup to beat the 2010 Masuk team.

Comment on SWC Postseason Awards by Kevin

Kevin — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 23:28:34 +0000

I dont think Masuk has that high of a tackle total. Calabrese leads the team in tackles and he averages about 8 per game

Comment on SWC Postseason Awards by PompFB04

PompFB04 — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 23:26:18 +0000

I went on maxpreps and checked it out,pretty cool. I do have a question for everybody though: How in the hell is Masuk up near the top of the state in tackles when all of the offenses they face basically go 3 and out?? might be some fudging going on there,no way that the defense is on the field for that long. Pomp punted like 10 times and had like 5 first downs,Newtown had 1 first down,how does that translate to a high tackle total?

Comment on SWC Postseason Awards by Kevin

Kevin — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 22:58:48 +0000

I was aware of Joe Flanagan’s stats. I had him in the poll but ultimately decided to go with Anthony Calabrese as the last player in.

Comment on SWC Postseason Awards by footballfan

footballfan — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 21:01:14 +0000

Joe Flanagan of New Fairfield, ended up 2nd in state for his defensive tackles, for the past month was in the number one spot, all according to max preps. He is also number one in his league. Why didn’t you wait to all schools posted their stats, before you nominate players for your award??

Comment on SWC Postseason Awards by footballer45

footballer45 — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 16:16:26 +0000

Kev, i was on maxpreps while at work and i notice that Willie Maxen and Tyler Valenti were in the top 5 in defensive stats in the swc for Pomperaug, my alma mater.
Maxen had 69 tackles ( 9th in league), leads the league with 10 sacks and had 3 forced fumbles.
Valenti was 2nd in the league with 89 tackle, and 4 sacks(10th) and 1 fumble recovery returned for a TD.
Based on these stats and the few games i got to see, i was very impressed with these players performances.

Comment on SWC Postseason Awards by swcfan

swcfan — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 21:33:27 +0000

Hello Kevin , I’m curious if you know when the league awards will be announced such ass the all swc teams? Thanks.

Comment on SWC Postseason Awards by Fred

Fred — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 18:10:29 +0000

Testani had 40 TB, not 60. He had 60 KO according to Maxpreps.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by PompFB04

PompFB04 — Sat, 27 Nov 2010 22:55:50 +0000

And if Brookfield or Bunnell lost it would’ve put Pomperaug in the LL as the 8th seed

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by Bryan

Bryan — Sat, 27 Nov 2010 00:03:33 +0000

Crazy that if Brookfield lost, they still would’ve gotten the 8 seed by 10 points because New Milford upset New Fairfield, on the other hand Newtown is OUT because New Milford upset New Fairfield

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by WCC

WCC — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 15:35:13 +0000

Newtown nevered played any one this year but Bethel, Newtown should not get in the states and by the way 42-0 best game ever?

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by concerned parent

concerned parent — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 14:19:53 +0000

newtown sucks! ahaha

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by fan

fan — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 02:32:51 +0000

after the quarter finals how is it decided who plays. is it by seeds or a bracket

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by PompFB04

PompFB04 — Thu, 25 Nov 2010 20:54:11 +0000

@Mike Pope, how did that turn out for you?hahaha,just like the rest of the teams in the SWC. Masuk will now be tested in the state playoffs. The SWC sure as hell didnt even give them a good sweat!!

Comment on Turkey Day SWC predictions by footballfan

footballfan — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 23:53:49 +0000

#12 is extremely overrated notre dame wins.

Comment on SWC Championship: Who ya got? by Kevin

Kevin — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 20:59:12 +0000

Thanks Bryan. Thanks again for sorting out all those playoff scenarios for everybody. Much appreciated.

Tony Soprano — Haha yes Bosco would probably win, but a few years from now it will be interesting to see how many of these Masuk kids went on to play in college.

Comment on SWC Championship: Who ya got? by Tony Soprano

Tony Soprano — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 19:44:05 +0000

Are you kidding….
Bosco 35 Masuk 14

Comment on Turkey Day SWC predictions by Bryan

Bryan — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 19:34:38 +0000

If it helps Brookfield, Immaculate is my horse in the race (yeah I know bad pun)

Brookfield 30 Bethel 21
Immaculate 20 ND-FF 16
Pomperaug 35 Oxford 14
New Milford 24 New Fairfield 20
Bunnell 49 Stratford 14
Barlow 20 Weston 17

And as I said on the other post
Masuk 49 Newtown 7

Comment on SWC Championship: Who ya got? by Bryan

Bryan — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 19:30:21 +0000

Masuk 49
Newtown 7

Have a great Thanksgiving! Ran into an Immaculate player in the mall yesterday, he assured me the Mustangs would win to help out Brookfield haha.

BTW, great story on the Gordon’s today. Ms. Gordon was one of my 4th grade teachers. I could instantly hear her laugh as I read the article.

Comment on SWC Championship: Who ya got? by Kevin

Kevin — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 16:03:27 +0000

Haha Fred. I agree…Bring on Bosco!

Comment on SWC Championship: Who ya got? by Steve

Steve — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 15:53:47 +0000

Newtown will dominate the line and force Masuk to hurry throws all night. Newtown will win game on interception return for TD final score Newtown 21-14

Comment on Turkey Day SWC predictions by Highschoolfootballfan

Highschoolfootballfan — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 14:52:20 +0000

#12 = Most overrated player in SWC. ND>Immaculate

Comment on SWC Championship: Who ya got? by Fred

Fred — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 11:45:37 +0000

Masuck w one hand tied behind their backs. They could play lefty and win. Bring on Bosco in 2011.

Comment on Turkey Day SWC predictions by SWCFAN

SWCFAN — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 04:46:37 +0000

#12 is back. Immaculate>ND

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by Mike Pope

Mike Pope — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 18:30:07 +0000

Newtown never gets any credit.

Look for them to come out strong vs Masuk and play their best game of the year.

I’m not saying an upset will happen, but it will the toughest game masuk will have played thus far.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by Bryan

Bryan — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 17:56:54 +0000

In my scenario NFA beats New London and New London drops to #4, while Brookfield becomes the best 2 loss team, Plainville goes up from #3 to #2 as the only one loss team

1-Berlin
2-Plainville
3-Brookfield
4-New London
5-8 However the mess down there works out

For this to happen though New London would have to lose, Brookfield would win, this puts them at 1150 each with guarantees

Brookfield would have to outbonus New London, Brookfield wouldn’t have the tiebreaker in tiebreak points or the lot

They’d have to get more wins from
Pomperaug over Oxford, very likely
New Milford over New Fairfield, toss up, edge NF
Immaculate over ND-FF, toss up, edge ND-FF

vs.
Killingly over Ellis Tech, not likely
Windham over Wilcox Tech, toss up
Wilton over Trinity Catholic, toss up
Fitch over Ledyard, toss up, edge Fitch
Stonington over Westerly (RI) toss up, edge Westerly

It’s not a great scenario that Brookfield will get more bonuses, but at least Brookfield has one quite likely, can’t say that about any of New London’s potential bonuses.

When it’s all said and done I’d expect Brookfield to be locked into that 4 seed, but the best scenario for Bobcats would be lucking into the 3. More importantly would be to see the word “Tech” lining up on the other side of 1st round bracket.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by SWC Fan

SWC Fan — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 03:26:35 +0000

Bryan – would it not be for Brookfield in 3rd to displace Plainvville so that Brookfield then would be in bracket with New London?

#1 #2
vs> vs>
#8 #7

#4 #3
vs> vs>
#5 #6

So in game one, if Bkfld is in 3rd, they would be under #2 New London, so probably would then play in Semi vs New London.

#1 Berlin would versus #8TBD, and #4 then Plainville would be in Semi most likely vs Berlin…this would mean Brookfield vs Berlin possible championship…but the road goes through Bethel, then Tech School, then New London and finally Berlin…seems to be toughest road through M’s. Either way, assuming the stronger top teams win out…they could see a pair of semi-final games that are either Berlin vs Brookfield and New London vs Plainville; or Brookfield vs New London and Berlin vs Plainville….But I think they, Bkfld, can do it.

Right now it is:
#1 Berlin
#2 New London
#3 Plainville
#4 Brookfield
#5 Lyman Hall
#6 Enfield
#7 Cheney Tech
#8 Coventry…

Until it all shakes out Wednesday/Thursday.

So Bryan am I wrong?

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by Bryan

Bryan — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 23:50:59 +0000

Check that

Best case for Brookfield
Win
Loss by New London to NFA
Pass New London on points
Get the 3 seed
Tech school gets the 6 seed, face them at home
Avoid Berlin in the semi’s
Have Berlin or New London knock the other out in the semi’s
Take chances with Plainville in the 2-3 semifinal game

Sign me up for that

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by Bryan

Bryan — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 18:59:22 +0000

There’s a realistic scenario where

Bethel beats Brookfield
Masuk beats Newtown

SWC could only gets one team into states pretty disastrous

A loss leaves Newtown now at 1110 guaranteed and probably 20 points from Brookfield over Bethel, & New Fairfield over New Milford, putting them at 1130, would be helped by Barlow over Weston to get to 1140…but lets put them at a solid 1130

Newtown would have to stay ahead of Hall AND West Haven for the 8 spot

Hall is at 1080 and would need 5 of 6 bonuses to tie Newtown
Bristol Central over Bristol Eastern 10/90 chance
Middletown over Xavier 30/70 chance
Bulkeley over SMSA,45/55 chance
Farmington over Fermi, 70/30 chance
Hartford Public over Weaver 80/20 chance
South Windsor over Rockville 80/20 chance

Hall has 3 solid, a toss up and two longshots, Hall would need to hit the tossup and get a major upset to get to 1130, Hall currently has tiebreak points on Newtown, but if it goes to a lot, Newtown beats Hall

Now for West Haven
West Haven has 950, gets 130 for a win for 1080
They have 10 guaranteed for 1090
They would need 4 of these 5 to match Newtown’s 1130
Amity over North Haven 20/80 chance
Guilford over Hand 20/80 chance
Wilbur Cross over Hillhouse 35/65 chance, Hillhouse playing for M chances
Sheehan over Lyman Hall, 15/85 chances, Lyman also in M race
Cheshire over Southington 45/55

Not one favorite among them, West Haven would need a ton of upsets to get to the 1130.

Newtown is in pretty good shape for the 8 seed even with a loss

For M
Brookfield win and get a home game, they don’t need incentive to beat Bethel after last year, but that’s still nice motivation

If Brookfield loses they’re at 990 guaranteed, and have a solid 10 in Pomperaug over Oxford; New Milford over New Fairfield and Immaculate over ND-Fairfield aren’t as likely so lets put Brookfield at a solid 1000

This would bring in 5 spots for 9 teams, Brookfield would need 4 teams to lose from
Coventry/Windham Tech @ 5 win Ellington/Somers
Gilbert/NW Regional @ 5 win Housatonic/Wamago
Lyman Hall vs. 2 win Sheehan
Cheney Tech vs. 2 win East Catholic
Putnam/Tourtelette/Ellis Tech vs. 1 win Killingly
Hillhouse @ 4 win Wilbur Cross
Platt @ 8 win Maloney
Waterford @ 5 win East Lyme, Brookfield could stay ahead of them anyway on bonuses

Say Brookfield is ahead of Waterford on points still, so make it 3 losses from the above list. Do you see three? Cause I don’t. I see one and maybe a tech school gets upset that’s still only two. Brookfield is outside looking in. Bobcats need to handle business with a victory. Best case they get the 4-5 game against a Tech school in the 1st round with a nice chance to get the semi’s.

Bethel the 3rd longest of shots to get in
Wildcats need to beat Brookfield
Then get bonuses from
Stratford over Bunnell, ouch
Newtown over Masuk, double ouch
New Milford over New Fairfield, triple ouch
Barlow over Weston, quadruple ouch

Not one favorite among the four, but say they all win, Bethel gets to 990

They then would need SEVEN teams ahead to lose or SIX and pass Ledyard on points

There are 9 options for the seven teams to lose

Coventry/Windham Tech @ 5 win Ellington/Somers
Gilbert/NW Regional @ 5 win Housatonic/Wamago
Lyman Hall vs. 2 win Sheehan
Cheney Tech vs. 2 win East Catholic
Putnam/Tourtelette/Ellis Tech vs. 1 win Killingly
Hillhouse @ 4 win Wilbur Cross
Platt @ 8 win Maloney
Waterford @ 5 win East Lyme
Ledyard @ 6 win Fitch

Say every game is a toss up for all those losses to happen and Bethel to get all it’s bonuses (for laughs we’ll call Newtown/Masuk a toss up) and the win over Brookfield. That’s 12 things that need to happen. Roughly 2212-1 odds. Good luck Bethel.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by SWC Fan

SWC Fan — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 16:49:10 +0000

POMPFB04 – You said it well. Arndt is a good player, but I agree he is NOT in the same league as both Brown of Brookfield and Croce of Pomperaug at QB. I also agree that giving Masuk nearly two weeks to be healthy, practiced, and knowing how they prepare with scouting and such, they will handle Newtown, in the first Quarter much as they did ALL the rest, all year…Deep, un-returnable kickoff, smash mouth on first “go” and shell shock Newtown into a 3-plays and out, or a turnover but either way putting Cochran, Testani, and Markus within 50-yards of the Newtown side of the field…it becomes a pitch and catch or hard nose run, but a TD…then they will repeat the process 4-5 more times, until they are at risk of 50-points. Although I am NOT a Masuk fan, I respect their team this year and they will be hungry for pay-back and to send a message to their Class for State Championship contention. Coach Murphy will also be eager to show Newtown what he has learned since leaving them and Cochran as a QB is still in the hunt for his additional NCAA offers…already with BC in hand, surely he has others and it will be interesting to see how many more…it all bodes well for the SWC as that brings focus of other recruiters to CT. CT is hardly recruited well at all…so great players help bring more positive attention to SWC and CT as a whole.

Masuk 49 – Newtown 0

Happy Thanksgiving!

Comment on In Memory of Joe South by Rose

Rose — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 15:08:48 +0000

Kevin, great tribute to Joe, he was one of the best and will never be forgotten!!!

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by Kevin

Kevin — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 20:43:39 +0000

Haha props to PompFB04…I wanted to use the “they could have Peyton Manning and it wouldn’t make a difference” line, but I decided not to.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by PompFB04

PompFB04 — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 19:50:55 +0000

OK Arndt’s relative(Sean Williams),he may be good but he isnt even in the same league as Brown and Croce. If Newtown was smart they wouldnt make the move and change what has been working for them for the last few weeks. Masuk will have this game over by halfway thru the 2nd quarter. Last year Masuk was totally beat up by Pomp(physically) and Newtown added to the beating. This year Masuk will be much more fresh and have a HUGE chip on their shoulder for getting knocked out last year. Newtown could have Arndt,Dan Marino,or even Peyton Manning coming back and it wont make a bit of difference.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by Fan Zant

Fan Zant — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 18:06:54 +0000

I agree with the guys on Newtown – way too early to write them off. Fresh legs and arm at QB and a grind it out style of offense, may make this a good game to watch. It’s very easy to jump on the Masuk crushes’em bandwagon. Newtown is good, but never had a chance this year because of injuries. Now they’ll be close to full strength. Their line is big/strong and they play solid “D”. They may not beat Masuk, but this will be a real test and, at worst, a good tune-up for Masuk in the play-offs.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by John S

John S — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 17:19:34 +0000

But what happend last year with these two teams? Masuk was supposed to destroy newtown. This year everyone is saying the same thing. Anyting can happen between these two teams

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by Kevin

Kevin — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 22:02:16 +0000

If Arndt is back, that will certainly make a difference. Unfortunately, though, it won’t make enough of a difference. Football’s a team sport and one player (and Arndt is a good player) cannot completely close the gap between these two teams.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by Sean Williams

Sean Williams — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 18:21:30 +0000

Ok, Masuk will not beat Newtown by more than 10 points.

How is brookfield ahead of newtown when newtown beat them.

I have heard that will arndt is back for newtown and better ever and better than croce and brown.

28-27 Newtown

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by SWCFootball

SWCFootball — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 18:16:09 +0000

I hear Newtown QB Arndt should be back and good to go. Should shake things up a bit and make things interesting.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by masukfan

masukfan — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 19:50:54 +0000

I know you talk well about masuk. They are in total a great team. Cochran, Markus, Testani, etc.. And alot is written about their defense, too. But… how about giving credit to the o-line?? Casey and Colin couldn’t have the stats they do with the line’s blocking and opening holes. To Cochran and Markus’s credit, they are always quick to mention the line and the protection they give them. Everyone on the line is a team player, not looking for recognition – like most linemen they just go out game after game, week after week, and do their job. They obviously have no “stats.” Maybe there should be stats like the least number of times a qb has been sacked! I see you mentioning Brookfield’s line – how about a little press for Masuk’s guys up front? Hopefully, based on the rest of the team’s stats, they will be voted onto the all-conference or all-state teams at the end of the season! And to all the nameless, faceless linemen out there – GO LINE!! That’s one chant you hardly ever hear from the stands!

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by HSfoot

HSfoot — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 23:16:39 +0000

The Playoff picture for LL is crazy bryan it will come down to turkey day Newtown can still get in with a loss……..

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by WCC

WCC — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 22:08:47 +0000

Looking back Bethel & Brookfield played almost the same schedule….but Newtown beat Brookfield and Bethel beat Newtown???? Bethel was fast asleep when they played pompy I really think if that game was played again to day you would see a differnt out come, that’s old news. Hat’s off to Brookfield – playing real good ball and like one post did say Bethel is RED HOT. I think the best SWC game played next week will be Bethel at Brookfield. Sorry Newtown your done, Masuk is just to fast, has the best QB in the state, D is unreal, and lets not forget about the special teams. In the end Masuk 52 – Newtown 12. To hard to pick the Bethel at Brookfield winner but I will say ether way it’s 1-TD!

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by BHSFAN

BHSFAN — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 20:57:11 +0000

Newtown is a very good team, but it is hard to imagine a scenario where they will be competitive with Masuk. Nevertheless, I like that Newtown mixes up their defensive schemes and runs blitzes from all over the place. If they can get to Cochran (something that no one else has been able to do), perhaps they can slow down the Masuk offense. However,I’m less optimistic about their ability to do anything offensively against Masuk’s defense. Masuk 38-7 with Newtown scoring on defense or on special teams.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by PompFB04

PompFB04 — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 08:33:34 +0000

Not only will Newtown not be within 30pts,they wont be within 40pts. Masuks’ defense is the best in the state,and Newtowns offense is horrible

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by SWC Fan

SWC Fan — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 04:40:05 +0000

Duffy I totally agree with you. Newtown struggled with New Fairfield and even this week with Stratford, 7-to-0 through 3 quarters…Masuk is healthy, has all week and a half to prepare, they have eyes on perfection and payback for last year…the last thing I would think anyone from Newtown would want to do, today, is taunt the Masuk Panthers. They are nasty good….5-6-7-8+ men to the ball and gang tackle, shell shock you from the first kick off and snap of the ball….they can light up the sky in passing and run over you like the running of the bulls. A year round effort, a strong off season program and the results showed.

As for Brookfield and Pomperaug, they both are good teams, they both got beat up by Masuk, but have overwhelmed the rest of the SWC…even the Newtown Coach is quoted saying, “He is glad to have had Brookfield in week one and not now”. He would not say that if there were not a good reason. Yes, Newtown beat Brookfield, but by a score, one touchdown, (they fumbled on one score into the endzone, but the official was behind the play and gave it to Newtown)…no excuses, but the game was messy from the bad calls to fumbles/turn overs or lack of conversions by both teams..both had wrinkles to iron out…but they seem to be out for Brookfield, and Pomperaug wasted no time to get back on the horse. I feel Masuk had a tough schedule for SWC, but the damn thanksgiving schedule vs SWC title game throws it off for the rest, I think Brookfield had a very tough schedule seeing all the big boys…Masuk, Pomperaug, Newtown, Bunnell, and Bethel….they still have to battle a hot and ready Bethel too. Pomperaug took on tough teams too…

Masuk 49 – Newtown 0

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by Kevin

Kevin — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 03:27:31 +0000

None taken…Newtown beat Brookfield when it was a completely different team.
Take out the Masuk game and both POMP and Brookfield have rolled over everyone they’ve played.
Newtown hasn’t played Masuk yet — and it has also dodged Pomperaug. Yes, 8-1 is impressive, but the Nighthawks haven’t played the cream of the crop in the SWC.
I’d honestly be very surprised if Newtown can stay within 30 points of Masuk.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by anon

anon — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 03:17:47 +0000

No offense Duffy, but how do you have Brookfield and Pomp ahead of Newtown? Newtown beat Brookfield. Newtown finds a way to win regardless of style. Don’t expect a blow out either in the SWC championship.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by BHSFAN

BHSFAN — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 13:21:22 +0000

Thank you, Bryan.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 9 by Bryan

Bryan — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 04:29:11 +0000

Class LL
Newtown 1070, +190 for win over Masuk, 1260 +20 guaranteed=1280, 1320 MAX, loss 1090 guaranteed, 1130 MAX
In with win over Masuk OR loss and losses by 2 of Southington, Staples, West Haven, Pomperaug OR loss by Southington/Staples and staying ahead of Hall/Conard (if Conard wins) AND Pomperaug or West Haven on opponent points

Pomperaug, 910, +150 for win over Oxford, 1060, +20 guaranteed=1080, 1110 MAX
In with win over Oxford AND a loss by Newtown, Southington, and Staples coupled with out pointing them AND either a loss by West Haven or out pointing West Haven

Class M
Brookfield win and in or a loss and some help will be clearer after the Enfield/Windham Tech game

Bethel win AND losses by the following teams, the loser of Enfield/Windham Tech, Ellis Tech, Platt, Hillhouse, Gilbert/NW Regional, Waterford AND Watertown (I think)

Comment on My take on D.J. by Fan Zant

Fan Zant — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 11:28:02 +0000

CT High School Football Player and Coach Jones – AMEN! Very well said and yes- it does matter!

Comment on My take on D.J. by Coach Jones

Coach Jones — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 00:49:36 +0000

Come on Kevin.. You and your partner Sean better get into a room with someone that has morals. Should it be this publicized? No of course not. Yes we all have to remember as a 24 year old young man, and I would like to emphasize young because that is what he is this was a bad descion and leave it at that. Do not try to stick up for him. When you have young children or get to an age where you have some life experience you will see that your morals and how you act is the only real thing in life that you can control. Even though I do not agree with you guys, Keep up the good work you guys do a good job with CT High School football.

Comment on My take on D.J. by Fan Zant

Fan Zant — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 00:24:19 +0000

This breakdown in ethics is inexcusable and has caused a serious amount of embarrassment for the Southington football program. Yes – I will agree that everyone might at first say – wow, what an advantage, but there is something called a conscience that needs to interecede and you return the arm band, before using it. This is the difference between someone with an ethical compass and someone without. I will agree its not a national story, but stop making it sound like chewing gum in class….please.

Comment on New Fairfield’s John Raneri checks in from UNC by Lady Rebel

Lady Rebel — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 00:15:50 +0000

Geoff, we miss u………

Comment on My take on D.J. by CT HS Football Player

CT HS Football Player — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 19:44:45 +0000

As a Connecticut High School Football player not on Coach Hernendez’s team, but who has met him and been coached by him at a camp this last summer, I have to say I really liked and respected him, he was an icon being he played at UCONN and his brother equally doing so well now. Hero’s to us in CT I would say. I could only imagine playing for such a coach and former UCONN player, with passion, current techniques/plays, depth of knowledge and energy. D.J. was very positive to us in the camp, so famous that our HS coach pointed and said “Hey that is DJ Hernendez former UCONN player” and we were all in awe. BUT now this incident has come up…a young, good coach in his first year as Head Coach, a coveted position for many aspiring assistant coaches all waiting their turn at a helm I would imagine, a position of power, control, leadership, tough choices….a position of being the Father to many without a Father and the brother to those who need counsel. In the worst of times, toughest times, the man you turn to for strength and leadership to guide you through the fear and pain and the man you rally behind when we win because he put the time in, scouted, watched endless amount of film, was with us through heat and dog days of summer through ice cold winds, rain and sometimes snow…many wear shorts to show their ability to overcome and adapt – he is the HEAD COACH. These head coaches often speak to us from day one about his rules, integrity, team work, FAMILY, RESPECT, being a part of something great and amazing, telling us we will NEVER forget these days and it will change our lives for the better forever. Yes the Head Coach is a man we all put on a totally different platform for his word is the final word on our team.

Now years ago, as we hear our fathers tell of their days in the 1970′s or 1980′s about how they hit harder, ran faster, had better plays, and “football was our lives, we did not have video games or concussions” they also lived by a CODE…one not unlike the Veterans we thank and praise today, in fact it is exactly like our Veterans code…HONOR, DIGNITY, RESPECT, TRUTH, VALOR. In Football and in War.

So our Dad’s our Veteran’s and our Coaches preach these words, they meant something then did they not? They should mean something today. If I were to pick up another kids test from the floor and choose to use it to copy and finish my exam – that is cheating, no question. I could get suspended, expelled or at least a detention and F. But in life Cheating is always wrong, correct? Spouses should not cheat on each other, Workers should not cheat against their company, Bankers cannot cheat in banking, Cheating is cheating and ultimately someone is wronged or harmed. All the comments seem to be about this coach and most seem to feel “Oh well, everyone does it or would, so let it go”. But how does the opposing team feel or the opposing team’s coach…they lost in the end, regardless of if this was the reason why…they have worked equally hard, they went through two a days or three a days too…they came with the same hope, preparation and vigor to win…but no one seems to care…oh well get over it, is that our generation’s motto? Everyone sins, so just keep sinning – who cares? WRONG…that is why we are so corrupt, the fact that ANY High School coach looks at this as forgiveable is reckless and appauling.

Should it be national, no, but if we as a State can so easily dismiss the allegation as no big deal, maybe we should relook at why it is so National. Our Governor a few years ago had to leave office and went to jail…why? Did he cheat? A famous Mayor in CT had to leave office and went to jail…why? Did he cheat? Maybe it is just our State, Connecticut…”As long as you don’t get caught, its fine”?

No I do not accept that…This is wrong, it was wrong and to be honest, if D.J. were my coach and I knew he was doing it or did it, I would struggle to play for him…not sure I would quit, that is a whole other subject of integrity and toughness, but my respect for him is gone, would be gone, it would be very challenging to have him get in my grill and yell at me about a mistake, or bad grade or being late or a detention…no folks, this should be a reason to Pray, ask for forgiveness and as the Head Coach, he should be the one to appologize to not only all of his team, their parents and school…but he should go to the opponent, apologize, and have the CIAC strike the game as a loss, not a win. He should show and lead by example, his mistake, his choice, so take the matter into your hands and the full punishment. He should not have waited for the school to do it or to see if CIAC might do it, he should do it, first step to recovery is admitting it, then fixing it. I would not call for his job, he is young, we all make mistakes, but he has a whole lot of proving now to rebuild his character, leadership and honor. Start with really apologizing, not doing it just because you got caught.

Thank you…

Comment on New Fairfield’s John Raneri checks in from UNC by Lady Rebel

Lady Rebel — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 03:47:10 +0000

Coach Nelson should have been coach of the year not coach murphy. He didn’t train us geoff did.

Comment on New Fairfield’s John Raneri checks in from UNC by haha

haha — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 03:45:23 +0000

Coach Nelson is the one that guided the team to 2 state championships. Its to bad you didn’t do your research when u gave out coach of the year. Geoff trained us not Murph

Comment on New Fairfield’s John Raneri checks in from UNC by haha

haha — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 03:42:42 +0000

Coach Murph is clueless

Comment on My take on D.J. by fred

fred — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 02:50:00 +0000

ESPN is the self-proclaimed authority. Rsepect them, but for them, who are the rest of us. You’re right though, a little discretion on the Cocch’s part and no one know about this.
Reminds me or the ST John’s player Malik Sealy who in April of 1993, then a member of the Pacers mistakenly left his team playbook at Kennedy Airport. The Pacers were about to begin a playoff series against the Knicks. A Bronx fireman found the playbook and delivered it to Don Imus, who read excerpts from it on his morning radio show.

Comment on In Memory of Joe South by Gene S

Gene S — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 21:21:46 +0000

Good job Kev

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 8 by George Hummal

George Hummal — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 12:39:47 +0000

Please do your homework. Masuk’s first team defense gave up 12 points on 2 well designed trick plays. They took a safety on themselves because they were up 50, the backups gave up 2 scores to Oxfords first teamers. Masuk didn’t attemped a pass in the second half and their back up offense took a knee 8 times.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by PompFB04

PompFB04 — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 22:55:49 +0000

@Ct Football Rocks,
You must be his QB coach or something because I thought both their mechanics were very good for young QB’s. I just feel that Croce has less to work with and still through some balls that were unbelievable especially on 3rd down and long. Brown was very good too,but in my opinion they dont use him enough. Pomperaug out gained Brookfield Fri nite and turned the ball over 5 times? If Brookfield passed the ball more I think they would have killed Pomp instead of making it interesting at the end. Brookfield didnt run the ball very good at all vs Pomp although Pomp was worse at running!!Pomperaugs offensive line was like swiss cheese were Brookfield protected Brown very good,and it kills me to say this but I have to agree with a previous poster,the Maxen twins are WAY OVER-RATED!!!

Comment on In Memory of Joe South by BHSFAN

BHSFAN — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 17:16:16 +0000

Wonderful tribute.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by CT Football Rocks

CT Football Rocks — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 14:22:53 +0000

PompFB04,

Boeing Brown is a far better QB than Croce. You have to look far beyond the stat sheet and focus at his mechanics and leadership ability. Brown is not at the level of Casey Cochran but is the second best QB I have seen play this year.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 8 by CT Football Rocks

CT Football Rocks — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 14:14:18 +0000

Attended Maloney-Wethersfield game on Saturday. Both teams would finish behind Central or Ridgefield in FCIAC, behind Brookfield in SWC, and behind Cheshire in the SCC. Neither team can play defense and Wethersifield’s special teams cost them the game.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 8 by Bryan

Bryan — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 04:51:27 +0000

Last but not least.

Class S
If everyone wins out 1st with current #2 Valley/Old Lyme beating #3 Hyde
and Woodland beating Sacred Heart, St. Joseph somehow knocking off Trumbull and Greenwich and Coginchaug beating Cromwell, but losing to Hyde, and Holy Cross beating Naugatuck
1) Ansonia 1460
2) Winner of Valley/Old Lyme and Hyde with (1390 or 1420)
3) Montville 1290
4) Loser of Valley/Old Lyme and Hyde
5) St. Joseph 1230
6) Woodland 1180
7) Holy Cross 1030
Coginchaug 1020

Sacred Heart will be in if they win out beating Woodland along the way. Cromwell will get in if they beat Coginchaug.

St. Joseph has the hardest schedule left vs. Greenwich and @ Trumbull (two LL schools), if they win one they’ll be in. Lose both and they will more than likely be out.

The Oxford gets in scenario (currently #12, need to pass 4 teams)
Win out over Weston and Pomperaug to get to 930 points
Then need 4 of these 5 things to happen
1)Capital Prep loses (probably to Brien McMahon)
2)Holy Cross loses (probably to Naugatuck)
3)Cromwell loses to Coginchaug OR Coginchaug loses to Hyde AND Cromwell
4)Sacred Heart loses (probably to Woodland)
5)St. Joesph loses to Greenwich AND Trumbull

That’s not too bad a scenario for Oxford provided they can win out.

The bottom of class S is a mess though with a lot of teams in either playing each other or having losable games on the schedule.

This week’s big S games:
Hyde @ Coginchaug, Hyde can’t get caught looking ahead to Valley/Old Lyme or they might go from undefeated to no homefield advantage, a win for Coginchaug would give them a little breathing room for the Cromwell game

Woodland @ Sacred Heart, Winner is more than likely IN, loser is more than likely out, though Woodland could lose and still get in with help

Holy Cross @ Naugatuck, Cross needs this or they’re basically done, Naugy needs to win here and at Ansonia to ensure their class L playoff spot

Greenwich @ St. Joseph, St Joe’s wins, they can afford a Trumbull loss, if they lose, they’re gonna need to win at Trumbull to keep their hopes alive as Trumbull is fighting for their class LL lives

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 8 by Bryan

Bryan — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 04:21:28 +0000

This is where the fun really begins

Class M
If everyone wins out (this includes Coventry/Windham Tech beating Enfield and Avon, Lyman Hall over Avon, NW Regional over Avon, New London beating NFA, Brookfield beating Bunnell, and Platt over Maloney)
Needless to say Class M has a lot of games left

1) Berlin 1320
2) New London 1280
3) Coventry/Windham Tech 1210
4) Lyman Hall 1200
5) Brookfield 1100
6) Platt 1040
7) NW Regional 1020
Cheney Tech 990

This is where you’re gonna have to follow me
Coventry/Windham Tech has two tough games left in Avon and Enfield, they could lose both and be out and Enfield in. Beat Enfield and lose to Avon and be fighting in the 7/8 range.

The Brookfield homefield scenario:
Brookfield wins out
Coventry/Windham Tech loses to Avon or Enfield
OR
Lyman Hall loses to Avon

The Hillhouse gets in with 3 losses ahead of 2 loss Bullard Havens scenario:
Hillhouse wins out
NW Regional loses a game
Bullard Havens beats Ellis Tech
Coventry/Windham Tech loses to Avon and Enfield or Enfield loses to Coventry/Windham Tech OR Brookfield loses Bunnell

The Bethel get in scenario (currently #15, needs to pass 7 teams)
Bethel wins out to get to 910
Ellis Tech or Bullard Havens lose a game (they play each other, so check)
NW Regional loses a game (preferably to Avon)
Hillhouse loses a game (gonna be hard to get this)
Platt loses to Maloney
Enfield loses to Coventry/Windham Tech OR Coventry/Windham Tech loses to Avon AND Enfield
Brookfield loses to Bunnell and then Bethel
Pass Waterford on bonus points or tiebreaker
Bethel helped by New Milford over New Fairfield, Newtown over Masuk, Stratford over Bunnell, and Barlow over Weston

This week’s big M games:
Lyman Hall @ North Haven, see Class L breakdown

Coventry/Windham Tech @ Avon, see Class L breakdown

Bunnell @ Brookfield, Bobcats can’t afford a let down after the big Pomperaug win

Putnam/Tourtellotte/Ellis Tech @ Bullard Havens, winner is alive to sneak in with help, loser is OUT

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 8 by Bryan

Bryan — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 01:48:57 +0000

I really have to remember that 8 followed by a ) makes a

Class L: (if everyone wins out and Darien beats New Canaan)
1) Masuk 1410
2) Darien 1320
3) Hand 1230
4) Naugatuck 1160 (tiebreaker)
5) Avon 1160
6) Wethersfield 1140
7) North Haven 1120 (tiebreaker)
8- Maloney 1120

New Canaan still controls their destiny however. If they can beat Bridgeport Central, then undefeated Darien. Bump them up to 1140 and in the class L field, Darien would still be in this scenario. The Rams could also still sneak in if they lose to Darien, but would need a ton of help, like lots of bonus points and 3 teams losing ahead of them help.

If Naugatuck loses to Ansonia (#1 in Class S) bump Bristol Eastern from out to IN if they can win out and New Canaan loses to Darien.

This week’s big L games:
Holy Cross @ Naugatuck, Naugy can’t afford this loss, Cross needs this to keep their Class S hopes alive

Coventry/Windham Tech @ Avon, Avon needs to handle business vs. a Tech school, game has big class M ramifications for Coventry/Windham that we’ll get to

Lyman Hall @ North Haven, North Haven looking to get into the L field, Lyman looking to maintain homefield advantage in the M field

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 8 by Bryan

Bryan — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 01:23:42 +0000

The picture is pretty clear for states in LL and L, Class M and S though are still a pretty good mess, hell Oxford is alive. My projections don’t include 10 point bonuses for opponent wins.

Class LL
If everyone wins out (assuming Xavier beats West Haven and Staples beats Trumbull)
1) Xavier 1400
2) Hall 1370
3) NFA 1360
4) Staples 1320
5) Glastonbury 1220
6) Newtown 1220 (this would mean Newtown beat Masuk)
7) Southington 1160
Trumbull 1090

Conard would have to beat an undefeated Hall team to match Trumbull at 1090. While West Haven would get in if they can win out but play Xavier this week. If Newtown/Masuk counts towards standings Newtown would need some help to stay in. Pomperaug is all but eliminated, they can get to 1000 points, would need a lot of upsets by the current 1 loss teams to get in.

Say Newtown loses to Masuk, it would take away 180 points right now and put them at 1040. They would need Conard to lose to Hall, have West Haven lose to Xavier and beat out West Haven on tiebreaker potentially. Newtown would be helped by Brookfield beating Bethel, Oxford winning out, plus New Fairfield and ND-Fairfield beating New Milford for bonus points. While rooting for teams West Haven beat to lose. Bump Southington/Trumbull up a spot while Newtown/West Haven would be fighting for the 8th spot.

This week’s big LL games:
West Haven @ Xavier, win for the Westies would get them in barring a letdown vs. Fairfield Prep, Xavier looking for #1 seed (Southington should be rooting for Xavier)

Trumbull @ Staples, Staples even with a loss is in good shape to get in, Trumbull with a loss could get dicey and need a W vs.St. Joseph’s to ensure a spot in the field

I’ve got the other class breakdowns coming

Comment on In Memory of Joe South by fred

fred — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 01:15:30 +0000

Outstanding article again Duffy. My condolences. He was indeed a great and happy kid. One of the best.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 8 by Frank

Frank — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 00:11:11 +0000

does bethel still have a shot at the playoffs?

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Kevin

Kevin — Sun, 07 Nov 2010 21:10:34 +0000

Pompfb04, I can’t really comment accurately on the best QBs in the state because I only see teams from around here. I will say, though, that I was impressed with both Croce and Boeing Brown on Friday. Both teams kind of opened it up and allowed Croce and Brown to showcase their abilities. They’re not quite on Cochran’s level, but both can really play the position.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Bryan

Bryan — Sun, 07 Nov 2010 07:36:00 +0000

“3. Brookfield ’05- With RB Scott Lutrus (UCONN) almost singlehandedly running through the SWC and State ranks, Brookfield took both the state and league championship in impressive fashion.
These are only three sure-fire examples as well Kevin, I could debate many more teams being better than this year’s Masuk. This isn’t even the best Masuk team of the decade, I’m sure the players from ’03, ’06 and ’08 would agure against your belief. You should really consult history before you make ridiculous statements such as a team being the best of the decade when that is obviously untrue.”

Before you consult history and make ridiculous statements. Brookfield didn’t win states in 2005, they lost to Woodland in the final 19-13.

2007 Bunnell did have a nice undefeated season and beat Masuk twice 16-8 and 22-14 in the Class L final. Also got pushed by Stratford winning 22-12.

2006 Bunnell won states as well, narrowly beating Staples 28-26 as the 4 seed. Lost to rival Stratford an SS school at the time and was a Bristol Central tie instead of win over Bristol Eastern from not making states at all

2010 Masuk still has some road to go, but not one team has stayed within SIX TOUCHDOWNS of them for Christ sake. Imagine the scores if they didn’t have the stay within 50 rule. Until a team loses by less than SIX TOUCHDOWNS, Masuk will be considered the team of the decade. It’s just pure domination.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Old School

Old School — Sat, 06 Nov 2010 22:05:25 +0000

Nighthhawk 08 – I couldn’t agree with you more. I’ve been following SWC football for about 10 years now – very closely. The level of competition, besides Pompy last year and Masuk this year, is at a 10 year low and, believe me, the rest of the league’s teams haven’t even been close to the competitive level that the league enjoyed from 2004 to 2008. This year’s Masuk team is very good (and comparable to last year’s Pompy team), but to call them the best of the decade, you had better be referring to the decade that began in 2010. They look spectacular because the competition they are playing is way down. To Masuk’s credit, they’ve kept their competitive level up and should be #1 in the state – when all the dust settles. A few years back New Fairfield, Notre Dame, Immaculate and even New Milford could compete on a regular basis. Not now, unfortunately, they aren’t even close. I’ve never seen worse tackling and lack of fundamentals than in the last two years. I sense an uptick is coming and the level of competition will get better, but to proclaim Masuk the best of the decade is, to me, wrong and at best, pure speculation – if you are referring to the last 10 years.

As for Nighthawk 08, you were part of the SWC when competition was at it’s best. Plain and simple. I hope you are doing well.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by PompFB04

PompFB04 — Sat, 06 Nov 2010 21:24:28 +0000

Fair enough by me,Good luck against Bunnell. I never predicted a score though,I dont like doing that,and I never called out your QB I was just making the comparison.To be honest after the game I still think that the Pomp QB is better. He threw some balls to players that I thought were copmpletely covered and somehow he stuck it in there. Your QB is good to though and will have a GREAT future Im sure. It sure will be interesting in the SWC with all of the young guns Castelot(soph),Brown(soph),Croce(jr),and Cochran(jr). I would say that they are 4 of the top 10-15 QB’s in the state right now,what do you think Kev?

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Bobcat

Bobcat — Sat, 06 Nov 2010 16:00:44 +0000

Dear PompFB04 – Thank you for the compliment about our game, we were prepared, we came and gave it our all. We respect Pomperaug, we do, we just were more ready and I think we shocked them. A lot of people said “You guys are better than I thought”, still not sure how to take that. But hard work is paying off. Many of our Varsity players remember the blow out from last year, so it was a big night for us.

As for what you heard on the bus, you are being too sensitive to the loss – it was not directed at Pomperaug. We were NOT taunting or cursing at Pomperaug, in fact our Coach really respects and is friendly with Coach Drury, he would never do or allow that. What you heard is a tradition that goes back to the ’08 year when after we win away and get on the bus for home, we have a bus thumping chant “Hey, hey, hey…Hey Bulldogs..were coming.” we were cheering and bus thumping for the next game…yes I think a few curse in it, even saying “we are gonna kick your ass..”, but it was ALL directed at next weeks big game for us – Bunnell Bulldogs. So if anyone at Pomperaug heard or thought that was directed at them, please let them ALL know it was NOT. We enjoyed the game, we won and even after all the banter above, calling out our young QB (who stepped up big time for us), your making predictions of lopsided scores, we would never taunt or ridicule Pomperaug that way. It was a good game and the only unsporstmanship penalty came from your Maxen when he, out of frustration, threw our RB to the ground.

I will not apologize for our cheer and tradition of our “chant” for Bunnell Bulldogs on our bus, but I do want you to know we played hard, we were for good reasons excited and we are in the hunt for playoffs…I hope you understand and best of luck to your continued hunt too!

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by PompFB04

PompFB04 — Sat, 06 Nov 2010 10:52:45 +0000

Stellar performance by Brookfield in beating Pomperaug,the Bobcats shut down the running game of the Panthers all nite. Brookfield also took and capitolized on every oppurtunity that Pomp gave them,which is what a good team does. BUT,yes there is a BUT,after the game I drove up to the top to say hello to coach Drury and the Brookfield team bus was up there with the windows down and they were taunting and swearing at every Pomperaug player and cheerleader that walked by,along with the coach that was in the bus! It boggles the mind especialy after the Lewis Mills incident that a coach would let this happen? What ever happened to winning with class? Brookfied definitely deserved to win the game but tainted it with the trashy way they acted,shame on them.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Kevin

Kevin — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 19:59:29 +0000

Nighthawk 08 — I’ve been at The News-Times for about a year. I grew up in New Milford and did not play HS football (played basketball and ran track) but I always kept tabs on football in the area. I’m familiar with both Bunnell teams and the Brookfield team you speak of.

Masuk has outscored opponents 333-21 this year (only 7 of those points came against the first-team defense…and that was on a fake punt). Maybe in a few years we’ll see their players on ESPN’S Top 10 like Lutrus and Mark Harrison. It’s unfair to compare players who have experienced collegiate success with players who are still in high school.

I’m not sure what else you want Masuk to do.

I respect your opinions, but the only ridiculous statement made on this blog is this one: “You should really consult history before you make ridiculous statements such as a team being the best of the decade when that is obviously untrue.”

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Nighthawk '08

Nighthawk '08 — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 17:16:10 +0000

Kevin, I came home from college the other day to see a claim you had made “Masuk is the best team of the frickin decade” along with your latest comment “Masuk ’10 is the best team of the decade. That is all.” Not only are both of these claims completely untrue, but they are tremendously disrespectful to the past talent and teams that have come through the SWC. How long have you been covering the league? It can’t be that long, considering your point of view. Anyone who watches SWC football would have to agree that the league is considerably “down” this year. I have attended a good amount of games this year, seeing Masuk twice, Bunnell twice and Newtown a bunch of times and I stick by the fact the league is very weak this year. Masuk is honestly the only legitimate team in the league who would be able to contend with the “great teams of the decade.” Them beating every team by 40 proves their dominance over the league THIS YEAR, not throughout the decade. This isn’t about the league’s downfall though, I’m getting back to your point of Masuk being the best team of the decade. Although their stats may support them being superior to other teams, the matchups would certainly support otherwise. I’ll name three teams that WOULD beat Masuk ’10:
1. Bunnell ’06- Led by All-World Qb Steve Smith who had 52 total Tds, they won both swc and states with a wide array of talent that Masuk ’10 wouldn’t have a chance to defend.
2. Bunnell ’07- With a large group of seniors that were juniors for their ’06 title run, add WR Mark Harrison (you know, he was on sportscenters top 10 Thursday for his catch on ESPN)and this team would not be touched by anyone, including this year’s Masuk.
3. Brookfield ’05- With RB Scott Lutrus (UCONN) almost singlehandedly running through the SWC and State ranks, Brookfield took both the state and league championship in impressive fashion.
These are only three sure-fire examples as well Kevin, I could debate many more teams being better than this year’s Masuk. This isn’t even the best Masuk team of the decade, I’m sure the players from ’03, ’06 and ’08 would agure against your belief. You should really consult history before you make ridiculous statements such as a team being the best of the decade when that is obviously untrue.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Kevin

Kevin — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 02:58:06 +0000

Masuk ’10 is the best team of the decade. That is all.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Bryan

Bryan — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 02:39:30 +0000

Masuk ’10 is way better than Masuk ’08, 2008 didn’t even make the SWC title game haha

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by PompFoot

PompFoot — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 02:25:50 +0000

Brookefield vs Pomperaug be there or be square

Comment on New Fairfield’s John Raneri checks in from UNC by Coach Keller

Coach Keller — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 02:10:16 +0000

Good to hear from John Raneri. Go Tarheel XC.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by PompFB04

PompFB04 — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 01:50:11 +0000

Masuk hasn’t won a SWC title since 2003,that doesnt sound very dominate to me. Bunnell and Pomp has won it 2x’s since Masuk has won it,maybe this year will finally be their year again. LOL

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by SWCFAN 101008

SWCFAN 101008 — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:40:14 +0000

Masuk ’08 > Masuk ’10
Brookfield ’08 > Masuk ’08
Conclude from that what you will

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Kevin

Kevin — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:16:04 +0000

Bryan, Good question. I will find out the answer to that and get back to everyone

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by PompFB04

PompFB04 — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 22:50:34 +0000

@SWC Fan
I never said the Pomp QB was all-state,never. I just said if your running 60 yds for a TD you cant be all that slow and his stats for teams that are very similiar are far superior,also get your facts straight because when he scored on that run Weston was actually winning 7-0 and was far from a “beaten” team.
I am not taking anything away from the Brookfield QB,heck I havent even seen him play yet,Im just surprised that with the success the Croce kid had last year playing and now this year he wouldnt be getting the edge.
As far as a Masuk player commenting on here.WOW,its exactly that attitude as to why everybody hates ur team,well with any luck maybe you guys could win a SWC championship for a change haha

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Bryan

Bryan — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 21:18:20 +0000

Random question

Usually the SWC Championship does not count towards the CIAC Playoff Standings, but the Thanksgiving games do. If it’s Masuk/Newtown and they play once for the SWC title, will the game count towards state playoff seeding? If it doesn’t that would leave Newtown with one loss presumably and in LL. If it does count, Newtown goes to two losses and probably out of states.

Pretty big difference

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by SWC Fan

SWC Fan — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 21:07:29 +0000

These latest comments do seem very personal, besides why is Masuk firing up the rage between Pomperaug and Brookfield? Seems Masuk is the one that should have a target on its back…not these players being called out so personally. They each have good players, good QB’s, LB’s and RB’s…etc. The Maxen’s are good football players, it will be a good game this Friday. Masuk should go mind their own business…

Comment on About Kevin Duffy by Laura

Laura — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 19:41:27 +0000

Kevin, You are doing a fabulous job. Loved the column in today’s (11/4/10) paper. My father would be very pleased with your success.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Kevin

Kevin — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 19:10:00 +0000

theOriginalPompFan — Hey he could be in study hall. You never know

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by theOriginalPompFan

theOriginalPompFan — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 18:19:53 +0000

@Panther Proud – it’s interesting that a Masuk player is blogging at 10am, Anyway, you sound like a fool. If you are going to call out players, at least have the guts to put your name on it. We’ll see who the better QB is on Friday. I will make sure that this gets passed on to the Pomp players. Both of the overrated players you mention are being recruited by D1 programs.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by SWCfan3124

SWCfan3124 — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 15:53:39 +0000

Masuk is gay 31-24

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Kevin

Kevin — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 14:54:31 +0000

Panther Proud — Thanks for that tidbit. Always good to hear the opinion of an actual player.

As for Masuk, yeah, I bet they’d like to see Brookfield win so they have to play one less regular season game, but in the grand scheme of things, they’re still going to go undefeated and maybe at best, give up a touchdown to Pomperaug if they play again the SWC title game.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Panther Proud

Panther Proud — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 14:07:15 +0000

Kevin – As a Masuk player, I think Bkfld’s QB was better then Pompy’s QB. He did score on us, I hit him so hard and kid never quit, I heard we broke his ribs, but he also throws better and showed far more effort then Pompy did. We beat the hell out of that kid n he kept comin out. Our defense scares the QB’s. Once we got up on Pompy they quit, Maxen’s did nothin and are overrated. Peace out….Newtown, we are waiting for you!

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by SWC Fan

SWC Fan — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 13:48:43 +0000

Pomperaug vs Brookfield consequences: Oh and in addition, I think you will also for a bizarre moment, be seeing/hearing Newtown and Masuk (maybe not in body, but in spirit) cheering loudly for Brookfield to win as with a win it means Newtown gets the SWC Title Game opportunity (careful what you ask for)and Masuk then has one less game at Thanksgiving time to prepare for its Playoff run. So the mojo, wills and cheers will be loud from around the region for this one. Masuk wants Newtown, they only then play them once on Nov 19 for SWC and would have T-day off with that week as a bye week to prep for playoffs and assumedly crowned SWC champs. If Pomp wins then Newtown goes to 3rd so Masuk would play Pomp Nov 19 for SWC and then still have to have a meaningless game vs Newtown on T-day and then go to State Playoffs, those are two big games for Masuk, certainly a risk of a let down, injuries or just to be worn out is a factor as Newtown and Pomperaug are not both going to just allow 42-0 on them…right?

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by SWC Fan

SWC Fan — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 13:35:39 +0000

Clearly some very biased opinions, but stats do not dictate the talent overall. Some teams are passing teams (i.e. Bunnell, Masuk) and others are mostly running (i.e. Bethel, Barlow) and then a few are combination. I do not think statistics alone can dictate the better player over another, and certainly one 60-yard run vs a beaten Weston team does not make an All-State bidding. My original question was more in trying to look ahead at the future of the SWC and based on all the young talent actively playing now, it is certain that the SWC will be highly competitive and very good for the next two years or so. In addition, as Duffy is an unbiased observer and has seen more of the teams from that perspective, I wanted to know his opinion on each young gun QB (Class of 2013 mostly). I think the young class of QB’s playing already at such high levels shows a lot. Certainly with Masuk, Brookfield, Pomperaug and even Bunnell all bringing young classes – i.e. juniors and sophomores back, the next few years will be fun to watch! Hopefully a few of these young guns should also have real bids for NCAA futures. Lets face it, having the Cochran’s in this conference bring a national presence to Connecticut and it will be an ancillary support for all these players as the exposure continues more and more. The BC offer already brought huge attention to Casey Cochran but in turn to all the teams he competes against as well.

As for Brookfield vs Pomperaug, it is a bit of another David vs Goliath. For years these players have sparred in Pop Warner, Coach Drury and Coach Angarano are long term rivals, yet with old school respect, and I would say that Pomp has had the edge, but there has been a few upsets during those years..now as Varsity players the skill positions vs the brawn will be played out. Pomperaug has certainly regrouped after a challenging start, but Brookfield is scrappy and has a great deal of scoring weapons both on the ground and in the air, and the defense is exciting too. Sorry Duffy, but I think Brookfield is still fuming after allowing Newtown to sneak past them game one and Masuk embarrassed them (both teams for that matter), so I am going with Brookfield 21-14 over Pomperaug. But it is never easy to take one out of Pomp stadium and this will certainly be a battle until the end. Lets hope the rain moves out and it is not too cold, but it will be a game to watch for sure!

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by SWCfan3124

SWCfan3124 — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 03:34:51 +0000

As a fan of the SWC I would have to say that Pomperaug is very good team but is always ready for an upset. We cant forget how they got embarrassed against Brookfield in the 07 season, so we have to be ready for a great game.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Kevin

Kevin — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 02:43:07 +0000

Haha PompFB04, your killin me here. I saw Croce run for that 60 yard TD. I still think Brown is faster. All I can say is…we’ll find out for sure Friday night. My opinion won’t count for much then.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by PompFB04

PompFB04 — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 21:42:55 +0000

More mobile? Didnt Croce run for a 60yd TD vs Weston? I dont care who you are if you could run that far and not get caught I would consider that mobile.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by pompfb

pompfb — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 19:09:01 +0000

Kevin – I think it will be a good game. Both teams need to win to keep their State hopes alive plus pomperaug still has a chance to play in the SWC championship. I think Pomperaug can give Masuk a much better game if they played again. Masuk would still win the game but not by 42 points.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by tval

tval — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 18:56:27 +0000

Kevin Masuk is young Cochran jr – Markus jr – Flynn jr – Milone soph

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Kevin

Kevin — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 18:25:30 +0000

Pompfb, Hey, I don’t doubt it. I picked Pomperaug as the 2nd best team in the SWC for a reason.
I also agree about Brett Gaughan being a stud at WR. He’s putting up huge numbers in the 2nd half of the year.

For the record, I think Brookfield is POMP’S biggest test since Masuk. I think Brookfield has a legit chance to win that game.

I won’t be on the live chat tonight @ 8, so I’ll leave you my prediction here:

Pomperaug 21, Brookfield 17.

Should be a good one.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by pompfb

pompfb — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 17:16:32 +0000

Kevin – Croce is about 6’3” and is being looked at by some D1 colleges. Everyone has to remember that Pomperuag started the season with plenty of injuries and about 17 new starters which is why they played poorly in the scrimmages and the first two games of the year. Paola, who was one of two sophomores that started last year on a very good team got hurt in August and played 1/2 a game against Masuk and that’s it (done for the year). The team (including Croce) is playing much better now. They established a running game (Andrew Reel) and have protected the QB. The new receivers are playing much better. The D has been very good all year. Even in the Masuk game, they held Markus to 3+ yards per carry. Cochran, lousy punting and poor field position killed pomp in that game. Masuk’s D had plenty to do with the field position issue. Pomperaug should beat Brookfield and will get into the States. If they can win a game in the States, it will be a successful season for them. The schedule was weak this year (no Newtown or Bunnell). Next years schedule will be tougher but with all of the Juniors coming back next year, they will be a FORCE to deal with.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Kevin

Kevin — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 16:46:00 +0000

POMPFB04–
Let me clear that up…I am not including Castelot in the conversation because I haven’t seen him play.
Schmidt is an absolutely terrific option QB and, given the system he plays in, I think he’s more productive overall than both Boeing Brown and Kellen Croce.
I like both Brown and Croce as pocket passers. Brown is a little more mobile and will end up being a little taller and stronger. If you’re asking about college potential, I’d say Brown has a little bit more.
With that said, Croce is the more accurate passer right now — as indicated by the numbers.
I think both will have a chance to play at the next level.

And after this Friday’s game, I’ll have a definite answer for you on who’s better…

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by pompfb

pompfb — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 14:27:41 +0000

pomperaug has a talented group of juniors coming back next year

qb-croce
rb-reel
wr-gaughan
wr-delotto
wr/rb – paola (out for the year but will be back next year)

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 6 by swcfootballfan

swcfootballfan — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 13:42:04 +0000

Same could be said about Kimmel from New Fairfield…. his height and athleticism could make him great if he was used more

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by PompFB04

PompFB04 — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 13:08:42 +0000

Not trying to be a “homer” but seriously,Brown and Schmitt over Croce and Castelot????? Brown doesnt even complete half of his passes,and Schmitt is so one dimensional its not funny.
According to some of the players and coaches Croce was playing the first 2 games with a bad back,since then he has gone 64-105(.609) 1036yds 9 Td and 3int. Brown is: 32-66(.487) 562yds 7td and 2int.
About WR’s maybe you guys should take a look at Brett Gaughan of Pomp,and James Reel as a RB.
On a side note Pomperaug has 9 of 11 starters on offense coming back next year!

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Kevin

Kevin — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 04:04:54 +0000

SWCFan, I’ll answer in order.

1. I think Bethel is a tough match-up for a New Milford team that hasn’t stopped the run all year. That said, the Wave can put up points, so anything’s possible.

2. Yes, I think Brookfield can beat Pomp.

3. I doubt Newtown will slip up against Barlow.

4. Castelot puts up huge numbers, but plays in a “sling it around the field” system. Truthfully, I haven’t seen him play, so I can’t compare him with the others.
Out of the rest of that group, I’ll take Brandon Schmidt as the most productive quarterback. He’s a terrific option QB. Boeing Brown is a good pocket passer who can scramble well. He’s got a bright future. In terms of a pure passer, I’d take him from that group. Kellen Croce of Pomp is right behind him though.

5. Colin Markus of Masuk and Leaon Gordon of Brookfield are def the top two underclassmen at RB. Vasquez from Bunnell is probably the top WR.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by SWC Fan

SWC Fan — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 03:26:13 +0000

Duffy – Do you think New Milford could beat Bethel? Is Brookfield will be able to beat Pomperaug? Is there any chance Newtown could lose to J. Barlow? Who is better as a QB Starter Castelot (soph) of Bunnell; B. Brown (soph) of Brookfield; Hebert (soph) of Newtown; C. Brown (soph) of Barlow; Schmidt (Jr) of Bethel; or Croce (Jr) of Pomperaug…Taking Cochran out for obvious reasons. All these teams have young QB’s and the next year or two can be really exciting…thoughts? Next question would be on the RB’s and WR’s of class of 2013 and 2012….thanks, not to take away from the amazing seniors, but they get a lot of attention already.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Kevin

Kevin — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 21:23:55 +0000

Matt Paola is out for the season. I know RBs Kevin Maxen and Dylan McAllister missed some time as well. Maxen is back…not sure about McAllister

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by needsomeinfo

needsomeinfo — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 21:05:42 +0000

who is out for pomperaug?

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Bryan

Bryan — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 18:17:41 +0000

I’d be up for it, I’ve always been big on playoff scenarios trying to figure out who has a shot

Just did LL for the one loss teams, if all win out, based on current win totals

IN
5-Trumbull,1240 pts up from now #6
6-West Haven, 1180 pts (tiebreak pts vs. Newtown), up from now #9
7-Newtown, 1180 pts, up from #8
8-Glastonbury, 1170 pts, down from now #5

OUT
9-Pomperaug-1150 pts, up from #10
10-Southington-1140 pts, down from #7

Hard to project wins of teams all of these have already beat for bonus points with still 3 weeks left, but looks like if Newtown can win out they’ll be in, but that huge Thanksgiving game against Masuk looms

Pomperaug would get bumped up to #8 if they can win out and Newtown becomes a 2 loss team, losing to Masuk

Southington schedule gets so easy that it could knock them out, they have 0-win, 2-win and 3-win teams left, they would be helped if Glastonbury wins out, because the Blue Knights beat them for a 30 point boost

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Kevin

Kevin — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 17:36:10 +0000

Thank you Bryan. How do you feel about guest blogging for the rest of the season?

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Bryan

Bryan — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 16:37:42 +0000

Brookfield is basically in a win out and in states scenario because Windham Tech/Enfield who are 6/7 in M play each other, barring a tie by those teams

If they win out, not factoring other wins by teams

10) Brookfield is at 600, gets 180 for Pompy, 160 for Bunnell and 140 for Bethel, 1080 total, 108 average
9) Waterford is at 640, if they win out, 120 for Windham, 120 for Plainfield, and 140 for East Lyme, 1020 total, 102 average
Platt if they win out are in, especially if they beat 7-0 Berlin this week, a loss to Berlin and Brookfield would pass them too
7) Enfield if they lose to Windham Tech is at 620, would have 170 for Avon, 130 for Windsor Locks, and 100 for Granby, 1020 total, 102 average
6) Windham Tech if they lost to Enfield is at 620 would get 110 for Stafford/East Windsor, 170 for Avon, and 120 for Ellington/Somers, 1020 total, 102 average

So Brookfield would leapfrog Waterford and the loser of Enfield/Windham Tech to go from 10 to 8 into states if they win out, and would also go past Platt if Platt loses to Berlin this week Ledyard is at #11 and could get to 1060 total points and could be tricky depending on opponents winning for the Bobcats

Picture will be a little clearer next week, but every game is an elimination game for coach Angarano’s team

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by Kevin

Kevin — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 04:19:53 +0000

They’re dealing with some injuries…but you can’t argue with the way they’re playing

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 7 by High School Football Fan

High School Football Fan — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 03:55:22 +0000

I thought I read Pomperaug was banged up ??

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 6 by LUVSHSFB

LUVSHSFB — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 17:51:30 +0000

If that kid was catching passes from Cochran or Croce he’d be an All-State player hands down!! What that Coach runs for an offense is embarassing,all those athletes and he bottles them up.

Comment on Around the SWC: Week 6 by hsfan

hsfan — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 14:17:02 +0000

marky is a good player i think if he was used right he could be one of the best in the state. they never seem to be able to get him the ball in space. coaches have to change that offense they can’t score.

Comment on Weekly HS football chat tonight at 8 p.m. by FBcoach

FBcoach — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 02:07:01 +0000

No way does the coach allow the QB to be hit during the week of practice!! Unless: like Kevin said he is a option QB who is expected to run the ball on Fri nites.If the coach was smart he would only allow contact to the “thud” on Mondays and Tuesdays and nothing the rest of the week. If he is a throwing QB there is no contact at all,you could have the DL peel off or have them use shields and hit him that way but ALWAYS with the red shirt!!

Comment on Weekly HS football chat tonight at 8 p.m. by Kevin

Kevin — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 14:22:33 +0000

Hi QBs Mom — I believe most teams allow their QB to get hit. There may be some instances when they wear the red jersey, but certainly not all the time. Also, if you’re son is a running quarterback and plays in an option offense (as a few teams in this area do), it’s almost necessary that he gets hit a little bit in practice.

Comment on Weekly HS football chat tonight at 8 p.m. by QBs Mom

QBs Mom — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 14:01:14 +0000

I have a question for or about most High School Football teams…I would like your opinion as I am a Proud Mother of a Quarterback. Do most teams allow their QB’s to get hit during scrimmage portions or any part of practice? Do most teams have QB’s wear the traditional red jersey with rules not to hit or especially hit his throwing arm during scrimmage? Or is that considering being a coward? I respect your opinions, thank you. M

Comment on My Top Five Sports Movies of All-Time by Kevin

Kevin — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 16:00:18 +0000

BHSFAN, I’m a man of my word. I will not disavow She’s The Man.
She WAS the Man in that movie…it will go down as a classic for my generation.

Comment on My Top Five Sports Movies of All-Time by BHSFAN

BHSFAN — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 15:16:22 +0000

Bull Durham would be my #6. Raging Bull is rough but brilliant. Rudy is a fine movie. Miracle on Ice is good and Kurt Russell is tremendous as Coach Brooks. Field of Dreams is idyllic and great.

Kevin, It’s never too late to disavow She’s the Man.