By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA The game plan wasn't really all that complex for the Brighton Barons. They planned to call the number 22 early and often. And then a few more times for good measure. "We were going so put the ball in Sam Tourangeau's hands and we knew he would carry us," said Barons coach Stephen Lian. Talk about the perfect plan. Tourangeau, a junior running back and … [Read more...] about Tourangeau powers Brighton past Gates Chili
Melander’s trotting stars headline NYSS Night of Champions at Batavia
By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA The winner's circle at Batavia Downs Gaming may very well turn into Marcus Melander's own little private party room on Saturday night. Hypnotic AM, the 2-year-old filly trotting sensation from the Melander stable, and Gimpanzee, the 3-year-old colt trotting star he trains, will be prohibitive favorites during the 30th annual New York Sire Stakes' Night of … [Read more...] about Melander’s trotting stars headline NYSS Night of Champions at Batavia
Simpson’s sack helps Athena hold off Geneva
By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA They had been in control for the better part of 16 minutes, ever since Sam Sheldon's touchdown pass to Aiden McDonald broke a tie midway through the third quarter. But now, as the clock wound down in the fourth quarter, the Greece Athena Trojans were doing more than just bending on defense. They were on the verge of breaking. And that 20-14 lead that … [Read more...] about Simpson’s sack helps Athena hold off Geneva
Former Amerks and Bruins goalie Jim Pettie loved team, loved life
By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA If you played with Jim Pettie, then you had a friend and teammate for life. If you played against him, well, he definitely wasn't your friend on the ice. Pettie had a love for hockey, a staunch belief in team and an unparalleled zest for life, longtime friends and former Rochester Americans teammates say. "This was a man who could live life," said … [Read more...] about Former Amerks and Bruins goalie Jim Pettie loved team, loved life
Wiel finishing breakout year on a high note
By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA You won't find Zander Wiel's name anywhere on most lists of top prospects in the Minnesota Twins organization. He's not on MLB.com's top 30, and he doesn't appear on fangraphs top 41. But you will find Wiel among the players with the most productive offensive seasons for the Rochester Red Wings in the Twins era, and in select categories for in the … [Read more...] about Wiel finishing breakout year on a high note