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October 26 -- November 1, 2026
Issue No. 665
| | Laguna Seca Memories -- Looking Back | | The Legacy of the 1980s Motorcycle Races at Laguna Seca -- Kenny Roberts /Eddie Lawson/Lee Moselle | |
The Legacy of the 1980s Races
During the 1980s, "King" Kenny Roberts turned the annual summer of AMA National races (such as the Champion Spark Plug 200) at Laguna Seca into a legendary "happening."
Roberts' persistent dedication to returning to his "home" at Laguna Seca from Europe to race, directly paved the way for Laguna Seca to finally secure official FIM Grand Prix world championship status in 1988. His distinct "knee-dragging" style and aggressive throttle steering—sliding the rear wheel of erratic, 150+ horsepower two-stroke motorcycles through the infamous Corkscrew—set the standard for a generation of legendary American racers who followed him to Europe.
"King Kenny" and fellow legend Eddie Lawson, are pictured here with SCRAMP Executive Director during the 1980's, Lee Moselle, who developed strong personal relationships with both racers as well as with the many other celebrity motor sports stars who made Laguna Seca their home during his tenure at Laguna Seca. In 1984, Roberts came out of retirement for a special appearance. In front of a record crowd of 82,000 fans, he broke the track lap record with a blistering 1:06.95 minute lap and cruised to his sixth career Monterey victory.
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Robert Crumb
August 30, 1943 --
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Note: Most photos in each issue are linked to Facebook albums produced by our talented photographers. To enjoy additional photos, simply click on a photograph or on the link provided at the end of each report. New albums, contributor essays and Sports Today issues are continually posted to: www.ultimatesportsguide.net
Write: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com
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Contents
Games
Golden State Valkyries 67, Atlanta Dream 62
Saint Mary's Gaels (MSoc) 1, Loyola Marymount Lions 1
Stanford Cardinal (WBkB) 72, Pacific Tigers 45
Features & Commentary
Mary Lou Retton, from the Autograph Collection of Rich Yee
Newsletter, Image, Likeness, by Darren Heitner, Esq.
Opposing Offensive Strategies & Quandaries, by Carl Macki
Sneaker Waves, by Andy Dolich
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San Francisco 49ers 20, Atlanta Falcons 29
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA
Sunday, October 25, 2026
The game started as the "CMC Show," with runs and passes and a flawless Brock Purdy 69-yard TD drive, (7-0 SF). Atlanta's RB Bijan Robinson and QB Michael Penix Jr. showed their stuff and came back with a 39-yard FG (7-3 SF). After punts, the 49ers' Kaelon Black, #26, broke through for a TD (14-3) as Christian McCaffrey headed to the medical tent. At halftime, injuries were unknown. Penix was 5/6 and led the Falcons to a TD, with the point-after wide right (14-9). A 49er fumble was recovered by Atlanta, which kicked a 33-yard FG with six seconds left: SF 14, ATL 12, Halftime.
The second half was a showcase for Penix Jr. and Co., with regular completions to Drake London and rare interceptions of Purdy and an occasional fumble to add to the SF misery. The only good news was the return of CMC. The 49ers Defense was in 'guesswork" mode, unable to stop the Falcons and early in the fourth quarter it was
26-14, Atlanta. A TD pass to Juszczyk made it 26-20, but yet another missed extra point and a subsequent FG by Atlanta led to a 29-20 49ers loss. I had Penix Jr. pegged for a future star but would have preferred he wait. "We just got beat," sums it up pretty well. That, plus if they meet again, which they very well may, the Niners will get revenge!
Watch All The Action Here!
San Francisco 49ers vs. Atlanta Falcons | Week 7, NFL 2026
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6PDASNSZQFI&t=37s
Robert A. Moselle, Esq.
https://www.cce-mcle.com/aboutus
mcle@msn.com
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Opposing Offensive Strategies
& Quandaries
Have An Opinion?
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49ers Skipper Kyle Shanahan and Bears Head Coach Ben Johnson make fascinating subjects for a study in contrast and comparison because few coaches better demonstrate how a shared offensive foundation can produce
strikingly different systems.
Both speak much of the same offensive language:
pre-snap motion, play-action deception and a
running game designed to make every call
strengthen the next.
Shanahan favors disciplined outside-zone structure,
bootlegs and clearly defined quarterback reads;
Johnson counters with a broader running menu,
rotating backs, inventive personnel packages
and greater freedom to adapt.
Their methods differ—but both aim to keep defenses
reacting instead of thinking.
-- Afterword --
Chicago Wins: Just Bear-ly
Caleb Williams threw for 308 yards and two touchdowns, while Drake Maye answered with 321 yards, two touchdown passes and a rushing score. Both quarterbacks kept their teams in the fight.
The Patriots were tough to the finish, but Ben Johnson won the coaching chess match. After Cairo Santos missed from 53 yards, Johnson trusted him again—and Santos buried a career-best 58-yarder with 1:34 left. That bold kick gave Chicago breathing room
and sealed a hard-earned 30–24 win.
Conceived and illustrated by Carl Macki. Comments?
Write: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com
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Golden State Valkyries 67
Atlanta Dream 62
Gateway Center Arena, Atlanta, GA
Saturday, October 24, 2026
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Game Recap: Golden State Valkyries vs. Atlanta Dream (Finals, Game 4)
WATCH HERE!
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ATLANTA (AP) — Gabby Williams scored 17 points and Golden State played stellar defense to beat the Atlanta Dream 67-62 on Saturday and even the WNBA Finals at 2-2.
The best-of-seven series moves back to California on Monday for Game 5.
The Valkyries stymied Atlanta star Angel Reese, holding her to just eight points. She had dominated the previous two games, averaging 25.5 points and 14 rebounds in the Dream victories. Reese struggled in Game 4, missing 10 of her 12 shots, including a few layups in the fourth quarter, after having double-doubles in each of the first three games.
Tiffany Hayes was moved into the starting lineup Saturday and scored all of her 13 points in the second half as the Valkyries got their first victory since Game 1.
continued...
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Stanford Cardinal 72
Pacific Tigers 45
Maples Pavilion, Stanford, CA
Saturday, October 24, 2026
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The Stanford Cardinal women's basketball team kicked off their 2026-27 season with a 72-45 exhibition game victory over the Pacific Tigers on Saturday, October 24th at Maples Pavilion. Guard Hailee Swain scored 18 points to
lead the Cardinal.
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Guard Shay Ijiwoye added 16 points, which included
four three-pointers.
| | Sophomore forward Charlotte Tuhy grabbed 15 rebounds. | | Dior B23 League High Top Kid’s Sneaker -- $880! | | |
Sneaker Waves
by Andy Dolich
The word "sneaker" is often attributed to Henry McKinney, an advertising agent for N.W. Ayer & Sons. In 1917 he used the term believing that rubber soles made the shoe's wearer stealthy.
The word was already in use in 1887 when the Boston Journal made reference to "sneakers" as "the name boys gave to tennis shoes." The name "sneakers" originally referred to how quiet the rubber soles were on the ground.
The first basketball shoes were designed by Spalding in 1907 (57 years before Nike was founded as Blue Ribbon Sports). The market for sneakers grew after World War I when participatory sports became increasingly popular. The U.S. market for sneakers grew steadily as young boys lined up to buy Converse All-Stars, aka Chuck Taylor All-Stars.
My first pair of “Sneakers” were PF Flyers bought in Valley Stream, New York in 1955 for $7 dollars. Today a new pair of Nikes for grade schoolers will run you about $75 bucks.
| | Michael Jordan 1985 Air Jordan 1 Game Used Signed Sneakers Rookie MEARS, JSA COA -- US $890,908 | | |
Check your bank balance when buying youth sports footwear for Billy or Sue. As their little sports piggies are growing every few months you'll need soccer cleats, basketball shoes, football cleats, school sneakers, running shoes, sport sandals, hockey skates, figure skates, tennis shoes, golf shoes, Crocs (getting to and from the games in style).
The value of the athletic shoe market for kids 6-18 in the United States is valued at around $10 billion dollars. For years, boys and men’s basketball shoes have dominated the market. Times have changed with new sneaker designs and colors from signature women’s shoes ushering in a new era.
| | Custom Kiks Prism Sneakers -- $89 | | |
The rise of girls/women’s athletic footwear reflects the growing influence of athletes themselves. As the sports world is growing in leaps and bounds for boys and girls, men and woman, so does their effect on the sports culture and the upward pricing for a pair.
The good news regarding outgrown sports shoes is that you can donate them to organizations that will be able to slip them onto kids soles whose parents might not have the coin to keep up with growing feet.
If you were a recent Powerball winner, I’d suggest that you surprise your "Stylish" sports prodigy with a pair of Dior B23 High Top Kid’s Sneakers. They run for a few dollars more than my first pair of PF Flyers. Just subtract the $7 dollars my parents paid from $880 dollars you will pay for your Dior’s and lace them up.
“May the Shoes of Sports be With You!”
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* * *
Andy Dolich operates Dolich & Associates, a sports consultancy, in Los Altos. A local resident, Dolich has more than 50 years of experience as an executive in professional sports, working with the Oakland A's, San Francisco 49ers, Golden State Warriors, and hockey and soccer teams. Dolich is also the co-author of Goodbye, Oakland, is available in bookstores and from Triumph Books. For earlier articles by Andy Dolich published in Sports Today! click HERE.
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Saint Mary's Gaels 1
Loyola Marymount Lions 1
Saint Mary's Stadium, Moraga, CA
Sunday, October 25, 2026
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Saint Mary's Gaels midfielder Cyrus Shafie (19) reacts after scoring a goal in the 73rd minute as the Gaels forged a tie against the Loyola Marymount Lions, 1-1, on Sunday, October 25th
at Saint Mary's Stadium.
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Minutes earlier, a goal by midfielder Brett Seemuller (31)
was nullified after a video review.
| Saint Mary's Gaels forward Alex Bandrauk (17) passes against Loyola Marymount Lions midfielder Matthew Sacristan (right) during the second half at Saint Mary's Stadium. | Goalkeeper Sam Bentley (1) recorded four saves for the Gaels. | |
Saint Mary's Gaels senior players pose for a photo with the coaching staff as part of Senior Day before the game against the Loyola Marymount Lions at Saint Mary's Stadium.
To visit a photo album, visit
www.ultimatesportsguide.net
All photos and captions by Darren Yamashita.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJCp51WCUjk
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JHL calls '26 a 'rollercoaster season,' but Giants see improvement
9:03 AM PDT
This story was excerpted from Maria Guardado’s Giants Beat newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And subscribe to get it regularly in your inbox.
By Maria Guardado
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Giants had high expectations for
Jung Hoo Lee when they signed the former KBO star to a six-year, $113 million contract in December 2023.
While Lee has put together stretches of star-level production at the plate, he’s struggled to sustain that success over his first three seasons in San Francisco. In 2026, Lee set career highs in batting average (.276), home runs (10), RBIs (57) and stolen bases (12), but he still finished with a 105 OPS+, leaving him only a tick above league average.
Known for his elite contact skills, Lee batted .302 with a .762 OPS over 88 games in the first half this year. But he once again faded after the All-Star break, hitting .236 with a .663 OPS over his final 55 games of the season.
“It was like a rollercoaster season, in some kind of way,” Lee said via interpreter Justin Han last month. “And of course, when baseball ends, there's always a little bit of regret. But I think that there's a few [areas] where I could have done better.”
In addition to his streaky offense, Lee wasn’t much of an asset on defense. The Giants moved him off center field at the beginning of the year to accommodate Gold Glove Award-winner Harrison Bader, but the shift to right field didn’t yield much improvement for Lee, who tallied -4 outs above average at his new corner spot this year.
continued...
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| | Athletics new president of baseball operations, Taylor Smith | |
A's bring in Taylor Smith to run baseball operations
by Martín Gallegos
October 19, 2026
This story was excerpted from Martín Gallegos' Athletics Beat
newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And
subscribe to get it regularly in your inbox.
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The Athletics have found a new leader to run their front office.
The club announced on Monday that Taylor Smith has been hired as president of baseball operations. Formerly a senior vice president/assistant general manager with the Red Sox over the past two seasons, Smith will take charge of the A’s baseball strategy and operations in preparation for the team’s relocation to Las Vegas in 2028.
“I couldn't be more excited about Taylor as our president of baseball operations,” A’s owner John Fisher said in a statement. “He is one of the brightest minds in the game today. We conducted a very thorough search for our new baseball leadership, and Taylor stood out for his acute understanding of the game, especially in the areas of measuring player performance and player development.
“We have a strong core of returning players, including Nick Kurtz, Brent Rooker, Shea Langeliers, Lawrence Butler, Tyler Soderstrom, Jacob Wilson and Henry Bolte, as well as a lot of great talent in our farm system. With Taylor's leadership and the talent already in our organization, we believe we have all the pieces in place to build a consistently competitive and winning team.”
continued....
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The Oakland Ballers are joining the Long Beach Coast In the
2026 Fall League. Ulsan, South Korea.
October 8, 2026
Oakland Ballers contingent to
play in 2026 KBO Fall League
in Ulsan, South Korea
Don Wakamatsu will come out of managerial retirement to lead the team, joined by veteran international coach John McLaren.
The Long Beach Coast have been invited to the 2026 KBO Fall League in Ulsan, South Korea from October 15–31, and they are bringing a contingent of past and present Oakland Ballers greats with them. This will be the first American team ever to play in the KBO Fall League.
The roster will include current and former players from the Pioneer Baseball League. And from the Ballers side, there are a lot of familiar names in the mix.
That Ballers group includes:
Ren Abe-Arias, SP, Oakland Ballers
Tremayne Cobb Jr., SS, Oakland Ballers
Esai Santos, UTIL, Oakland Ballers
Jeter Ybarra, 1B, Oakland Ballers
Logan Johnstone, OF, Oakland Ballers
James Colyer, P, Winnipeg Goldeyes
Luke Short, SP, Cleburne Railroaders
Adam Bogosian, P, Southern Maryland Blue Crabs
Conner Richardson, P, Cleburne Railroaders
A full roster and schedule can be found HERE.
continued...
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49ers Move to 6-1 Following Week 7 Matchup vs. Falcons; Takeaways from #SFvsATL
The San Francisco 49ers fell 29-20 to the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday, moving to 6-1 on the season heading into their Week 8 Bye.
San Francisco opened the game with touchdowns on two of its first three possessions, holding a 14-12 lead at halftime. The 49ers mounted a fourth-quarter push, but four turnovers stalled the team's momentum in its first loss of the season.
Despite the result, the afternoon featured several notable individual performances, including a milestone for RB Christian McCaffrey, a strong showing from TE George Kittle, and the first NFL touchdown for RB Kaelon Black.
Here are the key takeaways from Sunday's matchup:
1. Watkins and Juszczyk Make an Impact as 49ers Push Late
WR Jordan Watkins stepped up in San Francisco's passing attack, recording three receptions for 56 yards, including the team's longest completion of the afternoon.
Watkins opened the second half with a 15-yard reception before connecting with QB Brock Purdy for a 35-yard gain early in the fourth quarter as the team made its push. The wide receiver nearly added a 23-yard touchdown later in the drive, a toe-tapping sideline grab that eventually was overturned following the review.
Along with Watkins, WR Jacob Cowing also stepped up adding three receptions for 38 yards, including an 18-yard gain in the fourth quarter.
San Francisco continued its late push with a 10-play, 82-yard scoring drive, capped by a one-yard touchdown reception from FB Kyle Juszczyk. The score brought the 49ers within six points, 26-20, with 5 minutes remaining.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6PDASNSZQFI&t=37s
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| Yaxel Lendeborg Stuffs Stat Sheet in Warriors Loss to Suns | |
Kalyb Champion
October 24, 2026 9:43 PM PDT
Yaxel Lendeborg recorded 26 points, nine rebounds, five assists, and six 3-pointers in the Warriors’ 131-122 loss to the Phoenix Suns at Mortgage Matchup Center on Saturday. The short-handed Warriors stayed competitive despite Devin Booker exploding for 43 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. De’Anthony Melton scored 25 points in 26 minutes off the bench, Brandon Williams scored 20 points and added five assists as the starting point guard in place of Stephen Curry, and Graham Ike recorded his first career double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds. The Warriors made 17 3-pointers, shooting 43.6% from three but were outscored by 20 points, 27-7, in transition.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wKdoaRzQB0
(Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images)
continued...
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Bruins rally past Sharks in third, run point streak to eight
Score four in period; Pastrnak ties Bergeron
for third on Boston goals list
By Joe McDonald
NHL.com Independent Correspondent
October 24, 2026
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BOSTON -- The Boston Bruins scored four goals in the third period, including three straight in a span of 3:33, and ran their point streak to eight games by rallying for a 6-4 win against the San Jose Sharks at TD Garden on Saturday.
David Pastrnak scored to tie Patrice Bergeron for third on Boston’s all-time goals list (427), and James Hagens, Casey Mittelstadt and Fraser Minten each had a goal and assist for the Bruins (9-2-1), who are 7-0-1 in their past eight. Elias Lindholm and JJ Peterka each had two assists, and Jeremy Swayman made 23 saves.
“We were down by a goal (in the third period) and then we retake the lead and stay calm,” said Pastrnak, the Boston captain. “Even though we took two penalties, we stayed composed and end up getting the lead before the end, so it’s impressive how mature this group is sometimes during certain stages and it’s fun to see. We know we were far from our best today, but it’s OK because we ended up winning. It’s hard to win in this league, so we’ll take the two points, but we also know we can be much better than that.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pUNDvOhXbg
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MATCH RECAP:
Earthquakes 0, FC Dallas 3
Quakes’ unbeaten streak snapped at nine league games in Texas after hosts break open scoreless match with three goals in last seven minutes of regulation and stoppage time; San Jose returns to PayPal Park for Wednesday night clash with Colorado Rapids to kick off final regular-season homestand before Audi 2026 MLS Cup Playoffs
Saturday, Oct 24, 2026
FRISCO, Texas — The San Jose Earthquakes fell to FC Dallas 3-0 on Saturday night at Toyota Stadium after the hosts broke open a scoreless match with a trio of goals in the last seven minutes of regulation and stoppage time. Despite the result, which halted the Black and Blue’s unbeaten streak at nine league matches, the Quakes ended the night still in position for home-field advantage in Round One of the upcoming Audi 2026 MLS Cup Playoffs.
San Jose had the first real chance to score in minute 18 when Timo Werner’s cross from the left wing connected with Beau Leroux, but the latter’s header was saved off the bounce by Dallas goalkeeper Daniel. In minute 28, Ousseni Bouda had a one-on-one opportunity in transition for the Black and Blue after Leroux stole a pass and lifted a longball that was hauled in by the Burkina Faso international, but before he could cut back and shoot in front of the six-yard box, Daniel swiped the ball away. In the 39th minute, Dallas striker Petar Musa laid the ball off for Joaquín Valiente in front of the six-yard box, but despite shooting from point-blank range. he skied his left-footed attempt well over the crossbar. Four minutes later, a San Jose turnover led to Musa being all alone at the edge of the 18-yard box to blast one on net, but Quakes goalkeeper Angus Gunn came off his line to make a sliding save. FCD got a second bite of the apple off the rebound but Daniel Job’s shot was too strong and sailed over the bar.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ew1PL_OKFpo
continued...
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Roots Fall 2-3 on the Road to Sacramento Republic FC in
2026 Season Finale
October 24, 2026
In the regular season finale of Roots’ 2026 USL Championship campaign, Oakland fell 2-3 on the road to Sacramento Republic FC. With the loss, Roots were eliminated from playoff contention.
Sacramento opened their scoring account almost immediately following kickoff, after a short-played corner kick led to a tough angle shot from the right side by Alfredo Midence which took a deflection off a Roots defender before beating Kendall McIntosh on the far side to make it 0-1 in the 2nd minute.
Republic looked as if they doubled their lead just minutes later, but the goal was disallowed for offsides and play continued with just a single goal separating the sides.
Roots nearly leveled in the 20th minute when Peter Wilson worked behind the Sacramento defense on a run through the middle, but his cross came too late as the opportunity was cleared from danger.
Oakland came close once again just two minutes later on a cross into the box that resulted in a rebound on the first attempt which landed straight at the feet of Tyler Gibson near the 12-yard spot. Gibson’s shot was blocked by a Sacramento defender however, and Roots remained down a goal.
Roots did earn their leveler in the 45th minute when a free kick was given to Oakland in their attacking third, which Jesus De Vicente sent into the penalty area before the scrum kicked the ball out to Danny Trejo who deposited it into the twine to make it 1-1 in the waning moments of the first frame.
And unsatisfied with simply drawing the match level, Roots took the lead in added time of the first half moments later when De Vicente made a furious run up the left side before putting an inch-perfect cross to a full-speed Peter Wilson behind the backline, who finished his touch from in close to make it 2-1.
But with time running out in the match, and the results secured across the league for Roots to punch their postseason ticket with a win, Sacramento scored in the 81st minute to draw the game once again at 2-2 with a free kick conversion of their own scored by Lee Desmond.
Although it had no effect on Roots’ postseason push, Sacramento scored a dagger in the 90th minute with a counter-attack goal from Kyle Edwards to secure Republic’s 2-3 victory and end Oakland’s 2026 campaign.
While the season is over, Oakland’s late-season push showed that the seeds have been sown to grow further in the offseason, and return stronger in 2027.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0JUQn46eiY
continued...
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Match Recap: Bay FC fall 2-0 in final 2026 road contest at Angel City FC
10.24.26 Press Release Bay FC Cmmunications
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Oct. 18, 2026) – Bay FC earned a point from a
2-2 draw Sunday vs. Portland Thorns FC in a back-and-forth contest at PayPal Park. The home side roared back to equalize after conceding an early goal, before pulling ahead near the mid-way point of the second half. Bay FC finishes the day with a point earned, with only a late Portland equalizer keeping the team from claiming all three points.
“I could taste three points if I’m honest,” said Head Coach Emma Coates. “I think I’m really proud of the girls, we dealt with a lot this week in terms of players coming back from international duty, lots of injuries, a real thin squad and you know I think we for the most part played really well. As I say, just disappointing that we let three points slip through our hands.”
Portland earned the game’s first chance shortly after the opening whistle. A ninth minute corner kick was headed on frame by the visitors but missed the target high. Thorns FC earned the ball back shortly after play resumed and capitalized on a transition opportunity. Portland midfielder Morgan Weaver netted the first score of the game, sending one through from the top of the box.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0iD3TH8kgZ8
continued...
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Mary Lou Retton-- from the Autograph Collection of Rich Yee | |
Here’s another photo I got signed by Mary Lou Retton at a Bay Area sports card shop that held an in-store autograph signing with her. I showed up prepared with this magazine photo for her to sign. She was very friendly and spent a moment to chat with each fan that showed up. Her bubbly personality and smile is still fresh in my mind some 30 years later.
Rich Yee, Sports Today photographer
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Newsletter, Image, Likeness Vol. 207: What the Saving College Sports Emails Show About Who Built the Protect College Sports Act
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by Darren Heitner, Esq.
Founder of Heitnerlegal -- Sports, Entertainment, Trademarks, Copyrights, Business, Litigation, Arbitration
The Weekly Longer NIL Thought
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Front Office Sports published something this week that I don't think the Protect College Sports Act's backers wanted anyone outside their distribution list to read. The publication obtained, through public records requests to the University of North Carolina, Florida State University, and the University of Louisville, a summer's worth of emails sent on behalf of Saving College Sports, the advocacy group Cody Campbell created to move the bill through the Senate. Most of the messages came from Dary Stone, a Dallas real estate executive and former chair of the Baylor board. They went to conference commissioners, university presidents, and trustees, and, as FOS reports for the first time, to David McIntosh, the president of the Club for Growth, and to Malcolm Turner, who chairs the board of trustees at UNC Chapel Hill and serves as DraftKings' head of corporate development and strategy. Both were invited to an August 4 strategy call headlined by Senator Eric Schmitt that reached roughly 150 people.
The detail that should bother everyone, regardless of how they feel about the bill, is that Saving College Sports did not disclose its donors. To be fair, it is not required to. The only reason the public can see how it operated is that three of the universities it enlisted are public bodies subject to public records laws. And to be clear, nothing in the FOS reporting suggests anyone broke a law. Lobbying Congress is lawful, and petitioning the government is constitutionally protected activity. I'm concerned, nonetheless.
On June 1, 85 university leaders signed a letter to the bill's four Senate sponsors praising them for pursuing a bipartisan framework. According to FOS, Saving College Sports drafted that letter internally. Stone also circulated template messages for recipients to send to senators. That is a standard grassroots lobbying technique, but a letter written by an advocacy group and signed by university presidents carries the presidents' credibility, not the group's, and the senators reading it were entitled to assume they were hearing the independent judgment of educators.
continued...
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Uncork The Fun: NASCAR Returns to Wine Country July 10-11, 2027
SONOMA, Calif. (August 26, 2026) – NASCAR racing returns to Sonoma Raceway July 10-11, 2027, bringing the roar of the NASCAR Cup Series to Northern California for a summer weekend of high-speed action, spectacular scenery and the unmistakable flavor of wine country.
Set among the rolling hills and vineyards of Sonoma Valley, the NASCAR weekend will feature two days of racing and entertainment, highlighted by the 38th running of the Toyota/Save Mart 350 NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday, July 11 and the 5th running of the Pit Boss/FoodMaxx 250 NASCAR O’Reilly Series race on Saturday, July 10.
Coming just one week after the Fourth of July, the 2027 NASCAR weekend offers fans the perfect opportunity to extend their summer holiday with a getaway to Sonoma. With long summer days, great weather, world-class wineries, outstanding restaurants and some of the most picturesque scenery in motorsports, there’s no better time to experience NASCAR in wine country.
“There’s simply nothing like NASCAR in Sonoma, and moving our weekend into the heart of summer makes the experience even more special,” said Brian Flynn, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Sonoma Raceway. “Fans can spend the Fourth of July with family and friends, then make their way to Wine Country for an incredible weekend of racing, food, wine and everything that makes Sonoma such a special destination.”
continued...
| | Courtois Wins Sixth Consecutive Title at the 2026 World Sailing Women’s Match Racing World Championship | |
San Francisco Bay may have a reputation as a stern teacher, but skipper Pauline Courtois (FRA) and her Match in Pink by Normandy Elite Team proved to be quick studies at the 2026 World Sailing Women’s Match Racing World Championship (30 September to 4 October), hosted by St. Francis Yacht Club. Courtois and crew Maëlenn Lemaitre, Louise Acker and Laurane Mettraux, representing France’s Club de Voile Saint-Aubin Elbeuf, battled 11 teams across a range of conditions to win a historic sixth consecutive world-championship title. The invitation-only regatta was raced in J/22s and brought 12 of the world’s best all-women match-racing teams together to compete in what proved to be a match-racing masterclass.
Impressively, Courtois and crew won 19 of the 20 matches that they sailed.
"St. Francis Yacht Club would like to congratulate Pauline Courtois and her Match in Pink by Normandy Elite Team on their world-championship title,” said Susan Ruhne, StFYC’s 2026 Commodore. “The Bay delivered varied conditions over four days of racing, and StFYC’s Cityfront racecourse gave spectators the best stadium-style viewing experience possible.”
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| | Cal Falls To Oregon State In Exhibition Road Game | | |
Sammie Yeanay Had A Game-High 24 Points
For the Bears
By: Cal Athletics
CORVALLIS, ORE. — The California men's basketball team came up against a hot-shooting Oregon State squad in exhibition action tonight, falling 89-76 to the Beavers in Corvallis. Sammie Yeanay led the Golden Bears with a double-double on 24 points and 10 rebounds, but it was the Beavers' balanced and productive attack that proved the difference.
continued...
Photo by: CK Hicks/Cal Athletics
| |
Card Battles to Another Road Draw
Jayden Fitzgerald Boes scores his sixth of the year
in 1-1 draw against NC State
RALEIGH, N.C. — Jayden Fitzgerald Boes tallied his sixth goal of the year on Saturday evening as Stanford battled to a 1-1 draw on the road against NC State.
The Cardinal (8-3-3, 1-2-3 ACC) added another point to the conference table after managing its second consecutive draw on the road, while NC State moves to 5-5-5 on the year following the result.
continued...
Photo by: Lyndsay Radnedge/ISI Photos
| |
San José State Defeats
Cal State East Bay in
Exhibition Game
SAN JOSE, Calif. - Mekhi Mason led the Spartans with 20 points and KJ Martin Jr. notched a double-double to lead the San José State men’s basketball team in a 82-52 win over Cal State East Bay in an exhibition game Saturday night from Provident Credit Union Event Center.
The Spartans led 33-22 at halftime before erupting for 49 points in the second half. SJSU shot 48.1% from the field and forced 21 turnovers, converting them into 25 points.
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| | Saint Mary's College Gaels | | |
MWP | Saint Mary’s Battles DIII No. 1 Pomona-Pitzer in 14-13 Sudden Death Loss
SAN JOSE, Calif. — The Saint Mary's men's water polo team battled the No. 1 ranked program in NCAA Division III, Pomona-Pitzer, in a back-and-forth battle on Saturday afternoon, ultimately falling 14-13 in sudden-death overtime. The Gaels pushed the Sagehens through regulation and two overtime periods before Pomona-Pitzer secured the golden goal.
continued...
Photo by: Kennedy Schultz / Saint Mary's Athletics
| | |
Dons Post 25 Shots But Fall To Seattle U, 1-0
SAN FRANCISCO -- Despite out shooting Seattle U, 25-3, the San Francisco Men's Soccer team lost to Seattle U, 1-0, Saturday night from Negoesco Stadium.
With the loss, the Dons fell to 5-6-4, 1-2-3 in WCC play.
The Redhawks scored on only their second shot of the game in the 84th minute when Aaron Leon found the back of the net with an assist by Victor Akoum.
continued...
| | |
Women's Tennis 10/24/2026 8:56:00 PM: Gabriel Symkowick, Santa Clara Athletics Media Relations Student Assistant
Women’s Tennis Wins Five Singles & Three Doubles Matches on Day 2 of SCU Hidden Dual
| | |
SANTA CLARA, Calif. - Santa Clara women's tennis had a busy Saturday at the Santa Clara Hidden Dual, picking up five singles wins and three doubles victories against Sacramento State and Pacific. Anna Rahman rallied for a three-set comeback win and Madhu Satishbabu swept her singles and doubles matches while Ashley Katz went a perfect 3-0 on the day.
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| | University of Pacific Tigers | | Montero Nets First-Career Goal as Tigers Draw at Pioneers | | |
DENVER, Colo. – Two first-half goals set the tone as University of the Pacific men's soccer team (3-9-4, 2-2-2 WCC) secured a 2-2 draw at Denver (4-7-3, 3-1-2 WCC) Saturday afternoon at the University of Denver Soccer Stadium.
continued...
JLGOMES Photography
| |
Defense Shines,
Aggies Rout Bears at Home
DAVIS, Calif. – No. 20/21 UC Davis (5-3, 3-2 Big Sky) got back to its winning ways on Saturday, routing Northern Colorado (3-6, 2-4 Big Sky), 33-6, behind a strong defensive effort at UC Davis Health Stadium.
HOW IT HAPPENED:
-
After forcing a three-and-out from Northern Colorado to start the afternoon, Jordan Fisher had his way on UC Davis's opening drive, ripping off 35 yards on his first four touches, including a nine-yard touchdown at 11:29 to get the Aggies on the scoreboard.
Photo: Mick Dunning / UC Davis Athletics / The Wary One
continued...
| | |
Cal State University East
Bay Pioneers
| |
Pioneers Come Up Short in Four-Set Match Against San Francisco State
SAN FRANCISCO – The Cal State East Bay volleyball team fell to San Francisco State in four sets Saturday afternoon at the San Francisco Federal Credit Union Gym at Don Nasser Family Plaza. The Pioneers claimed the opening set before the Gators responded to take the next three, winning 25-20, 10-25, 22-25 and 11-25. East Bay moved to 7-12 overall while remaining 5-4 in CCAA play following the nonconference matchup.
continued...
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| | |
Weekly Bay Area
Sports Calendar
Monday, October 26, through
Sunday, November 1, 2026
| | |
Monday, October 26
Golden State Warriors @ Denver Nuggets, 7 p.m.
Golden State Valkyries vs. Atlanta Dream, 5 p.m.
Tuesday, October 27
San Jose Sharks vs. Buffalo Sabres, 7:30 p.m.
Sacramento Kings @ San Antonio Spurs, 5 p.m.
Wednesday, October 28
Golden State Warriors @ Minnesota Timberwolves, 5 p.m.
San Jose Earthquakes vs. Colorado Rapids, 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 29
Golden State Valkyries @ Atlanta Dream, 5 p.m.
San Jose Sharks vs. Vancouver Canucks, 7 p.m.
Sacramento Kings @ New Orleans Pelicans, 5 p.m.
Friday, October 30
Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers, 7 p.m.
Saturday October 31
Golden State Valkyries vs. Atlanta Dream, 5 p.m. (if needed)
San Jose Sharks vs. Ottawa Senators, 1 p.m.
San Jose Earthquakes vs. Real Salt Lake, 2 p.m.
Sacramento Kings @ Memphis Grizzlies, 5 p.m.
Cal Bears @ North Carolina State, 9 a.m.
Stanford Cardinal @ Louisville Cardinals, 12:15 p.m.
San Jose State Spartans vs. New Mexico Lobos, 1 p.m.
Sunday, November 1
San Francisco 49ers, BYE
Las Vegas Raiders @ New York Jets, 10 a.m.
Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Clippers, 5:30 p.m.
Bay FC vs. San Diego Wave, FC, 2 p.m.
| | |
Publisher: Christopher Weills
Associate Publisher: Ann Cooke
Marketing Director: Robert Moselle
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Contributors: Lydia Chain, Steve Chain, Harvey Cohen, Andy Dolich, Pete Elman, Rob Flammia, Bruce Macgowan, Robert Moselle, Howard Pearlstein, Amaury Pi-Gonzalez, T. Buff, Shelia Young. Dave Newhouse (dec.)
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Technology Advisors: Silas Everett, Gaurav Chaulagain
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Advisor: Arif Khatib
Artist: Carl Macki
Website: www.UltimateSportsGuide.net
Contact us at: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com
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FIELD OF PLAY
For the past 60 years, Michael Zagaris has taken his camera behind the scenes of the NFL, capturing the moments that define America’s game.
To order: https://www.zagarisbook.com/
| | LOL, Loss of Logo: What’s Your Next Move? was written for sports professionals by Andy Dolich and Jack Hirschman and offers valuable takeaways for everyone chasing the fancy logo and corner office. | | The Emerald Mile: The epic and award-winning story of the fastest ride in history through the heart of the Grand Canyon, by Kevin Fedarko. A thrilling true tale during the legendary flood of 1983. | | |
The Ultimate Sports Guide is very appreciative to the ongoing contributions made by former staff photographer Kenny Karst and Robert Moselle. Mr. Karst, now retired, continues to contribute helpful ideas and his archives.
Mr. Moselle, Esq., is now lending his extensive editorial experience and marketing savvy to the publication.
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