New and Improved!

We have finally got our new site up and running.  Hope you like it.

Check it out at BearcatSportsPage.com.

Tennis Team Starts Big East Tournament

This past weekend the women's tennis team had their first home match on campus, then they had their last home match on campus.  With the unpredictability of Cincinnati weather they spent almost all but this past weekend indoors.  The team won't complain because they were very successful this year playing inside, but this weekend they will definitely be outside.  As Abbey Cummins tells us the the weekend home stand was a last minute tune up for the conference tournament.

The Cats first match in Tampa will be Thursday morning at 9am against the #9 seeded Pitt Panthers.  UC defeated Pitt 6-1 last weekend.  A win would put UC up against the #1 seed, Notre Dame on Friday.

Tribute to Joe Nuxhall

"It's a shame he isn't here to see this", one fan was overheard saying Tuesday night as the first annual Joe Nuxhall Classic was being played at UC.  As a tribute to a man that meant so much to baseball in Cincinnati a tournament among four local college baseball teams has been created in his honor.  Joe Nuxhall was baseball in Cincinnati, but not just on a professional level.  he touched all ages, from t-ball up through Babe Ruth, an ion to the big leagues.

Here is what it looked and sounded like Tuesday night at Marge Schott Stadium, including a video message from long time broadcast partner and friend, Marty Brennaman.

Spring Practice: Tuesday

Easter weekend gave the Bearcats a couple of extra days off,  but Tuesday it was back to work in pads.  Goal line and short yardage situations were part of the workout to get the juices flowing.

After practice one of the subjects brought up by the media to Coach Kelly was the progress of sophomore running back Isaiah Pead.

Strangely enough after Coach Kelly talked about his sophomore running back, Artrell Hawkins caught up with Isaiah when practice was over.

The next time we can talk to players and coaches is Saturday.

Spotlight with Artrell Hawkins: Kerry Coombs

He's won where ever he's been, as a college player, as a high school coach, and now on the staff at UC. We are talking about UC associate head coach, Kerry Coombs.  Friday after practice Artrell Hawkins caught up with the defensive back coach, and he's the focus of today's Bearcat Spotlight.

 

Spotlight with Artrell Hawkins: Aaron Webster

One of the most over played stories this spring is that UC lost 10 players from last years defense.  That means one starter is coming back,  free safety Aaron Webster.   Wednesday after practice our Artrell Hawkins caught up with Aaron to talk about the many changes that took place during the winter.

Friday after practice Artrell will talk to Aarons position coach, Kery Coombs.   Artrell is working with Bearcat Sports Page as part of his preparation as a side line reporter for Bearcat Bowl II.    April 25  FSN Sports   7:00

Spring Practice: Need The Short Yards

The second week of spring practice got off to a strange start.    First off, Monday the team spent some time being a part of one of the biggest sports days the city has, opening day.  Then snow and cold weather canceled practice on Tuesday.   Despite the cold temperatures on Wednesday things heated up a bit when Head Coach Brian Kelly showed his displeasure with the way the offense was running their short yardage plays, but at the end of the day...it's still just March.

Practice will be cut short this week so players can be home for Easter.

Spotlight with Artrell Hawkins

We at Bearcat Sports Page.com are excited to announce that this spring we have joined forces with a former Bearcat football star,  Artrell Hawkins.  Not only has Artrell brought experience to our class as a former NFL player, but he's also bringing insight to our web site as a correspondent.  This past Saturday Artrell  hooked up with UC quarterback Tony Pike after practice to get his thoughts on spring ball, and the up coming year.

Artrell will have an interview with defensive back coach Kerry Coombs next week.

Lacrosse: Rutgers

A full weekend of sports on campus included a couple of Lacrosse games.  The woman's lacrosse team faced of Sunday afternoon against Big East foe Rutgers.  After dropping their contest against Notre Dame on Friday they Cats hoped to bounce back against the Scarlet Knights, but came up short.  Here is a look at some of the action at Nippert Stadium including a defensive stop, a near miss,  and a goal.

The Bearcats have two remaining home games, next Saturday against Loyola, MD, and the following Wednesday against Louisville.

Track: Senior Day

With a month to go, the Bearcat track and field team celebrated senior day this past weekend.  UC hosted the Southern Ohio Cup as the count down toward the Big East meet begins.  Four meets stand between UC and their biggest meet of the year, but Saturday it was all about honoring the seniors.

UC won Saturdays meet finishing first out of eight teams.  This was the third straight win for the Cats.   Next weekend they are in Knoxville for the Sea Ray Relays.

Coaches Clinic

This past weekend the Bearcats opened up everything from practice to team meetings for area high school coaches.  The two day clinic started Friday morning and went through Saturday afternoon practice.  It's a great opportunity for both parties to get to know each other and to share ideas.

We asked a few of the coaches in attendance what they get out of coming to Clifton for a weekend clinic.

So after a weekend in Clifton, that included watching two practices, we wanted to know what stood out about a Bearcats practice?

Fundamentals and Hitting

Spring practice is filled with instruction and fundamentals, but it also involves some hitting.  Saturday afternoon the Bearcats strapped the pads on.  Here is a quick glimpse of some of the drills, including one of the players favorites....one on one kick off coverage.

Monday the team will be involved with several opening day festivities that include the parade, holding a large American Flag during pre game ceremonies, and Coach Brian Kelly delivering the game ball. 

Baseball Fever: We Got the Cure!

Red's opening day is Monday, do you have a case of baseball fever yet?  If so we have the cure!  Take in a UC baseball game this weekend for only $1!  That's right only $1.  Bearcat Sports Page.com is working with the athletic department to help get people in the seats this weekend for a big series with Louisville.  Last year the Cards knocked the Bearcats out of the Big East Championship game and it's pay back time.

Saturday's game starts at 4:00 ad Sundays first pitch is at 2:00.  All you have to do is tell them at the ticket window that you are with the "Bearcat Sports Page.com" group and you get the special $1 ticket deal.

Be a part of history on Sunday when the Bearcats host their first ever nationally televised baseball game.   ESPNU will be in town to share the game with the rest of the country.  Come down and see Big East baseball at it's best in one of the top rated college baseball stadiums in the mid west.  Come out and support the Cats...just say " I'm with the Bearcat Sports Page.com group" and you get to do it for a buck!

Spring, With a Starting QB?

This marks the first spring practice in the "Brian Kelly Era" that the starting quarterback for the fall is already known.   Last season Tony Pike was thrust into the starting role when Dustin Grutza went down to injury.    Pike was also injured during the season giving opportunity to others, but as spring practice opened up he is the clear cut starter. 

With 10 starters from last seasons defense lost to graduation the emphasis will be on offense.  Head coach Brian Kelly even joked last week that the team may be winning games this season 52-50.   Not that he lacks confidence in his defense as much as he has confidence in his offense.

As the leader of that offense, Tony Pike likes what he hears.

One gap the team is hoping to fill this spring is to find some leaders.  Hit the play button again and listen to Tony talk up the defense on the first day of spring practice, that is the sign of leadership.

WIN A CAR!

This past week the men's soccer team began spring practice with the goal of winning another Big East Championship next fall.  Throughout the month of April the team will be playing exhibition games with the final game coming against Ohio State on April 25.   Not that taking on an in state rival isn't exciting enough,  the Bearcats will be giving a way a car to a lucky fan.   In a fund raising campaign for the team, they are selling chances to win a new 2009 Pontiac Solstice. Only 350 chances will be sold for $100 each.  For more information please call the UCATS office at 556-4884.  The winner does not need to be present on April 25 to claim their prize.

Spring Football Practice Starts

Spring football practice got under way Tuesday morning and here is a quick look at what went on.   Video from practice with interviews mixed in.

Bearcat Sports Page.com is where you will find the most complete coverage of spring practice at Nippert Stadium.

Marcus Barnett a Defensive back?

Spring practice kicked off Tuesday morning with a few surprises.  Demetrius Jones, the QB transfer from Notre Dame, has traded in his #2 quarterback jersey for a #44 linebacker jersey.  That move had already been talked about over the winter.  The biggest surprise might have been when sophomore wide receiver Marcus Barnett was wearing a black jersey and working out with the defensive backs.  

One of the big stories heading into spring is how the team will replace the 10 seniors they lost from the defensive side of the ball, including both starting defensive backs.  The media at Tuesdays practice was quick to ask Brian Kelly about the switch, and his thought process behind it.

Barnett was quickly surrounded by members of the media to get his thoughts on the switch.  Last years "experiment" of moving Connor Barwin to defense certainly worked out well for everyone.

Going into spring practice the coaching staff has a number of receivers to look at, one of the reasons Barnett is being looked at as a defensive back.  However, questions still remain.  Number one being, will Vidal Hazelton be able to play this fall.  He is the highly acclaimed transfer from USC.  UC is currently working with the NCAA to see if Hazelton could be eligible for the Bearcats this year.   That decision will have an effect on the future of Marcus Barnett as a defensive back.

Getting Ready for Spring Football

Tuesday morning at 9:00 the Bearcat football team will suit up for the first time since the Orange Bowl, and spring practice will officially begin.  For the equipment staff practice is over, for them Tuesday is time for "mid season" form.   They have been getting ready for spring ball for weeks.  Monday morning we watched them put some of the finishing touches on the locker room.  

Barry said that the spring is easier than the fall for his staff.   Tuesday there will be very few new players getting into new equipment, unlike the fall when a whole new class has to be sized and fitted.  As for the "new additions" I guess we will all just have to wait until Labor Day to see what they are.

Spring Soccer

There is no such thing as a "season" for any college sport.   Our calendar reads March, yet the football team is on the turf in Nippert Stadium and the soccer team is over at Gettler Stadium.  The spring soccer season kicked of Monday and the men's team is getting ready for a busy spring.

Here is a look at some upcoming  home games for the men:

April 3, Friday:  Alumni game 6:00

April 5, Sunday: Marshall 11:30 and NKU 2:30

The women's team kicks off their spring games with a home contest against Butler Sunday at 5:15.  For more details please go to : Go Bearcats.com

NFL teams Keep Coming to Clifton

Last week, "Pro Day" brought the NFL spotlight to UC football.  Fifteen different players got the chance to showcase their talents before coaches and scouts from 28 NFL teams.    One of the four teams that didn't make was the Chicago Bears.   A week and a day later they made their way to Clifton to take a look at Corey Smith and DeAngelo Smith with individual workouts.  Here's how it looked along with some thoughts from two when they were done.

The representative from the Bears was kind enough to answer a few questions.  Nothing could be said about specific players but plenty was said about the tremendous progress UC's program has taken and how workouts like this will become a common site.

Just a reminder that spring practice kicks off Tuesday morning and Bearcat Sports Page will be there with the best coverage.

Championship Swimming Starts Thursday

At the Big East Met last month UC's Josh Schneier was named the conferences most outstanding men's swimmer.    The junior from Taylor High School won three individual events at the conference meet, the 100 meter freestyle, the 50 meter freestyle and the 100 meter butterfly.   This weekend Schneider will be representing UC in those three events at the NCAA championship meet in College Station, Texas.   

According to collegeswimming.com Schneider has one of the top 10 times in the country for the 50 meter free style:

#6.  Josh Schneider    Cincinnati    19.17

Click here to see how Schneider's best times in the other events he will be competing in:  CLICK HERE.

Check back here for updates on how UC's top swimmer does in college swimming's top event.

Last summer Schneider finished 16th in the Olympic Trials for the 50 meter freestyle.

A Proud Father

Pro day on campus Thursday was looked at by a few of the seniors as the last time they would be on the turf at Nippert with something on the line.  With that being the case, Tom Barwin was not about to miss his last opportunity to see his son compete one last time at his favorite stadium.  Connors family has criss crossed the country watching his son play football and basketball for UC so it was no surprise Dad was there Thursday.   We caught up with Mr. Barwin and got his thoughts on his sons future past, present, and future.

Connor has been a favorite of ours as an interview subject as well as the rest of the local media during his career in Clifton,  and after spending some time with his father is easy to see why.  This apple didn't fall far from the tree at all.  

Track Kicks Off Spring Season

Spring arrived on Friday, and track season arrived a day later at UC.  Saturday afternoon the Bearcats hosted several area teams in their annual Early Bird Relay.  Bearcat Sports Page.com was on hand for the event and bring you a "sights and sounds" recap of some of the days events.  Click the play arrow and enjoy a beautiful day of competition at UC's Gettler Stadium.

For the final results of today's meet please visit Go Bearcats.com : Click Here.

There will only be two more home meets at UC:

March 28 and April 4

Do your self a favor and stop by and experience a great track and field atmosphere!

PRO DAY: Inside activities

Thursday morning at 10:00 the NFL scouts and coaches gathered in the weight room at UC to begin their day of evaluating 15 NFL prospects.  Here is a look at some of the events that took place inside before they moved outside for the speed and agility drills in Nippert Stadium.

Later today we hope to have a similar look at the outdoor activities, plus hearing more from the players.

PRO DAY: Todays Vital Stats and Closing Thoughts

For all of the times and other vital numbers from today's pro day at UC please click here and go to the official UC site.  We want to thank several people for their help in our coverage today. First and fore most, Coach Paul Longo.   The weight room is his domain and we were invited in to cover this awesome event.   Connor Barwin summed it up best, he said when he arrived at UC he was no where close to running a 40 yard dash in 4.66 time.  He gives credit to the strength staff, for the past two years that has been Coach Longo.  We would also like to thank the players for taking time to talk to us on this "highly stressful" day.    The work ethic and team work are two of the things we left with today.  These guys have worked hard to get to this point and not once today did any athlete perform a drill without team mates cheering them on.  This was a great day to be a Bearcat!   We will have much more video and interviews from today's event tomorrow, and in days to come.

PRO DAY: Rex Ryan Remembers UC Fondly

Among the NFL scouts, a couple of head coaches made the trip to UC for pro day.  One of them was New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan. This was his first trip back to Clifton in over 11 years.

Rex was the defensive coordinator for Rick Minter for two seasons.

As a new head coach he's looking at the years draft seriously. He liked what he saw at 

UC on Thursday.

Ryan is one of three former UC assistant coaches that have elevated to a head coaching position in the NFL.  The other two are Pittsburghs Mike Tomlin and Baltomores John Harbaugh.

PRO DAY: Hawkins Remembers His Pro Day

Along with the NFL scouts and head coaches a few other familiar faces were seen at Nippert Stadium on pro day.  One of those was former Bearcat, and 8 year NFL veteran, Artrell Hawkins.  Artrell is working with the UC defensive backs as they prepare for the next level.  The former Bearcat defensive back remembers his pro day from 1998, the last big pro day this program has seen.

We will have more from our interview with Artrell later this week.  In 1998 Artrell was taken in the second round by the Cincinnati Bengals.

PRO DAY: Busy Day For Connor

Since the scouting combine Connor Barwins stock has been climbing.   At the combine he finished first in most of the categories the defensive linemen were tested in.  Thursday he participated in most of the drills and worked out with 4 different player groups.   Seems like a crazy day?  Connor expected it....he also expected to work out for the 4 different groups.

On the bench press he got 23 preps, and he had a 40 yard dash time of 4.66.   Several scouts were there specifically to watch Connor.  One coach that spent a tremendous amount of time with him was Giants tight end coach Mike Pope, a highly respected coach that apparently does not make many trips to see college kids work out.  

We will have more on Connors day later, including interviews with his agent and his father.

Mickens Works Out at Pro Day

Thursday was a big day for many of the senior football players.  If they plan on playing in the NFL this was the day to catch the eye of several NFL scouts.  Pro day at UC attracted over 28 different NFL teams and one of the bigger stories of the day was Mike Mickens.  A knee injury at the end of the season sent him home from the Senior Bowl early and then kept him from working out at the scouting combine.  He finally started running a few weeks ago and participated in every event Thursday afternoon.

Several scout commented that Mike looked good.

Big Day For Mickens

Pro day for at least one Bearcat will be a very important day.  Mike Mickens started his senior year with plenty of pre-season recognition, but ended it on crutches.  An knee injury at the end of the year sent him home early from the Senior Bowl and kept him for working out at the NFL combine.  Mike told us at the combine he was feeling good but was going to let the knee rest until Pro Day instead of working out at the combine.   Speculation among the media in Indianapolis was the Mickens stock was dropping because he didn't work out.  That stock could be on the rise with a good performance Thursday.

NFL Show Time: Thursday

At last count there were at least 28 different NFL teams staying at hotels in the Clifton area getting ready for Pro Day Thursday morning.  Along with the six players that were invited to the NFL combine, at least ten more players will be hoping to catch the eye of NFL scouts during hte work outs.  This event is only for UC seniors and is closed to the public.  Bearcat Sports page.com will have complete coverage of the event, including interviews and video of the tryouts.

This will be the biggest Pro Day UC has ever hosted.

Marathon or Sprint

In racing there is a big difference between a sprint and a marathon.  Fans are deservedly upset that UC did not make the tournament this year....either one.  However, the team did improve some this year and did finish better than expected.  The pre season Big East coaches poll had UC picked 11th, they finished 9th.  That's up two spots.  From top to bottom the poll was close to being right, except that Notre Dame and Georgetown finished below UC and not above them.  The difference between 9th and 11th.  One could say that UC would have finished in 11th had those two teams not "under achieved" and fallen apart.  True, they did have worse than expected seasons but remember that UC helped in that by beating Georgetown twice and Notre Dame once.  Turn that around and UC is 11th and both of them finish 9-9.    In a marathon you don't pass up the entire field at once you have to work your way up picking them of one at at time.  Put two more in the rear view mirror during next season and all of a sudden you are 7th or 6th and in the NCAA tournament.    A slow raise last much longer than being a "one hit wonder" that has one great season, and that's it.  Just a thought.

It's All or Nothing.

With basketball season over it's time to turn our sites toward football.  That's right football already.  In a couple of weeks spring practice begins...but in just a few days the football future of some former Bearcats could take a turn toward the NFL.  Thursday afternoon is Pro Day at UC and as Jordan Staugler reports there are a few more guys than the ones that went to the combine that have think they have what it takes to play on Sundays

Bearcat Sports page.com will have complete coverage of Pro Day and any news leading up to it.

Barwin #28

Sports Illiustrated ranked their top 50 college prospects after the NFL scouting combine last month.  Connor Barwin comes in at #28 on their list.   He is the only Bearcat in the top 50.

Here is the article: Click here.

Proving Their Worth...One Win At A Time

UC's Lacrosse team has started out their season this year with more win's than all of last year. They are now currently 4:2 with recent games. The team has added many eager new freshman that are excited about joining the team. With the combination of the seasoned players and the positivity from the freshman, this team seem's to be a force to be reckoned with. Here's a look at what the team's been doing this year. Next Game is on March 15, 2009 12:00pm vs. Vanderbuilt, in Cincinnati followed by March 25, 2009 @1:00pm vs. Fresno State in Cincinnati also.

Chip Off The Old Bull

A new face in the Bearcats clubhouse this year has a familiar name, Lance Durham.  The son of former major leaguer, and Cincinnati native, Leon "Bull" Durham.  Leon was best known for his years in a Chicago Cubs uniform, but he did play for his home town Reds at the end of his career.  Lance was raised in Cincinnati and attended Roger Bacon High School.  After high school he went to Kaskaskia College before transferring to UC this year.  So far this year Lance has played a big roll in helping the Bearcats score runs.

Pitching + Hitting+ More Hitting=Wins

After starting off the season with three straight losses the Bearcat baseball team has won 5 out of 7 at home, and as Sarah Knigga reports it's no surprise to the team that they started winning when they got home and started swinging the bat.

Western Michigan series this weekend at Marge Schott Stadium.

Friday:  4:00

Saturday Game #1:  1:00     Game # 2:  Following game 1

Sunday:  1:00

Batter Up!

Tuesday afternoon the Bearcat baseball team continued their winning ways as the defeated the Dayton Flyers 10-6.  For  the box score and a play by play list:  Click here.

Wednesday the Cats host Xavier at Marge Schott Stadium.  First pitch-4:00

Year #2, Lookin' Good

Last year UC added a new sport to the athletic department, women's lacrosse.  Year number one was a year of first's.  First goal, first win, and so on.  That was last year.  In 2009 there is only one first this team is aiming for, its first wining season....and with a 4-1 start that may be achieved. Head Coach Lellie Swords sees a change in the teams attitude this year.

Wednesday afternoon the Cats travel up I-71 to take on Ohio State.  Bearcat Sports page.com will be taking a look at this years team with a story to be posted later this week.

Which Tournament Will it be?

Last week the UC women's team became only the second #16 seed to ever win a post season tournament game with their win over Marquette.   That's includes all men's and women's post season tournaments.   Tuesday afternoon that feat was duplicated by DePaul as they came into their game against the Bearcats as the #16 and won.  It's great when you beat the 16 seed, it's bad when you loose to the 16 seed.  Now it's time to wait for the selection process.  Did the last week knock UC out of the NIT too?  Three straight losses to three teams they were favored to beat. Could it be a repeat of the College Basketball Invitational for UC?  What about the newest post season tournament added this year, the College Insider.com tournament?  Sunday should be quite a day.

Last Chance to Dance Starts Today

Bearcats take 3 of 4 games against Bradley

The baseball team wrapped up a four game set with a 10-5 victory over the Bradley Braves today at Marge Schott Stadium. Senior Mike Spina had two home runs and six RBIs in the win.

Bradley jumped out to an early lead scoring two runs on three hits in the top of the second, but a two-out grand slam to right field by Spina helped give the Bearcats a 5-2 lead. In the third inning, Sophomore Chris Peters hit his first home run of the season, increasing the lead to five. In the bottom of the eighth, the score was 8-5 in favor of UC when Spina hit his second home run of the day, increasing the lead 10-5. Senior pitcher Jake Geglein retired the side in the ninth inning for the win.

Yesterday the Bearcats split a doubleheader. In the first game, they defeated the Braves 16-2. Junior Kevin Johnson gave up only three hits in six innings. Four UC players had two or more hits; led by junior Jamel Scott's three.

In the second game, errors hurt the Bearcats as they dropped a 4-8 decision.

For complete information : Click here

UC returns to Marge Schott Stadium Tuesday and Wednesday to take on the Dayton Flyers adn the Xavier Musketeers. Both games are set to start at 4. 

Baseball Saturday

During the basketball game it was announced that a basketball ticket stub would get you into the UC baseball game free.  The Cats were taking on Bradley.  Luckily when most fans made their  way over they were greeted with some runs for the home team.    Here is a taste of the offensive display,  a three run home run by  junior catcher Jimmy Jacquot.  This was part of a 16-2 Bearcat win.

What great day for baseball.  UC ended us with a split on Saturdays double header.  Sunday the Cats end their weekend series against Bradley with a 1:00 game.

Connor Barwin On Senior Day

One of the highlights of senior day was the return of Connor Barwin to Fifth Third Arena. Connor was recognized for his two years as a basketball player, one under Coach Cronin during his first year at UC.   We caught up with Connor and asked him about this special day.

After four years of football and two years of basketball, what was tougher.....going up against Ohio State's Greg Oden on the basketball court or the Oklahoma offensive line on the football field?

We want to thank Connor for taking time to talk to us today.  Connor has been overwhelmed with football questions so we tried to stay away from questions about the combine and mock drafts and give him his day.  Again it says something about this young man that he took the time to  be apart of this.  The fact that his parents also took the time to come in from Chicago to be apart of the day lets you know that the way he has handled him self through out this process is no accident.   Coach Mick Cronin deserves a tremendous amount of credit for recognizing that Connor was a part of the rebuilding process and asked him to be there on Saturday.

Senior Day Ceremony

For the most part it wasn't a great day at Fifth Third Arena.  Without ESPN 360 you didn't see the game...or the senior day ceremony.  Here is the what it looked and sounded like when the three seniors were announced.  First Connor Barwin, then Mike WIlliams, and finally Brandon Miller.

The game might not have been too good but the senior recognition certainly was.

$10 Tickets

Tickets for todays game are only $10!  Noon Tip Time

TV:  ESPN 360   Radio:  102.7 FM  WEBN

Just Keep Winning

What will happen to the UC basketball team next weekend when the committee members go behind closed doors?    The team knows they have no control over that, except to win as many games as possible between now and then....and that starts today.  The players say they are just concentrating on Seton Hall.  What about Coach Cronin?  Does he look at the scenarios and look at what could happen?

With a win today the Bearcats wrap up the #9 seed in the Big East Tournament and will play DePaul on Tuesday at noon.

Bearcats top Braves 11-10

A walk-off single in the bottom of the ninth gave the Bearcats an 11-10 victory over the Bradley Braves Friday at Marge Schott Stadium.

Cincinnati jumped out to an early 5-0 lead in the first inning. Senior Mike Spina drove in the first run on a single to right field. Bradley cut the lead to three in the top of the second, but the Bearcats quickly increased their lead.  Three straight walks loaded the bases, which brought Spina to the plate. Sophomore Nick Rohlfs scored on a wild pitch before Spina blasted a three-run homer giving UC a 9-2 lead. Junior Lance Durham increased the lead to 10-2 when he hit his first home run of the Bearcat career.

Bradley battled back to tie the game at 10 in the ninth inning, but a single through the left side of the infield by Sophomore Chris Peters gave the Bearcats the win. 

The two meet again for a doubleheader Saturday beginning at 1pm at Marge Schott Stadium

For complete coverage: Click here

Spring Fever: Baseball Style

Here are some sights and sounds from UC's game Friday against the Bradley Braves.    The Bearcats won 11-10.

Saturday the Cats play a double header.  Game #1  1:00   Game #2: 4:30

Women Win Big East Opener

Early on in the season the women's basketball team was beating teams.  At one point in time the team was 13-4, then they fell on hard times and lost 12 in a row to end the season.  Confidence gained in December was missing in February.  One of those 12 losses was a 6 point loss to Marquette in Cincinnati.  Friday afternoon they saw the Golden Eagles again in the first round of the Big East Tournament and the loosing streak came to an end.  In overtime, the Bearcats defeated Marquette 60-54, and they live to play another day.  Next up, South Florida.  A team they defeated early in the year on the road in Tampa.   

Saturday:  #8 Seed USF   Tip Time:  2:00  

For full details on Fridays win:  Click Here. 

A Walk On, A Transfer, and A Football Guy

Saturday the basketball team bids farewell to a rather, different group of seniors.  One, a walk on that came in during the Andy Kennedy "year" and stayed through thick and thin paying his own way.   One, a McDonald's All American that left Texas only to get hurt and loose a year at UC.  One, a football player that stepped in when needed, but then stepped aside when the coach recruited some basketball players.  Today two of the seniors and the coach "reminisced".

First, Brandon Miller.  A Player who's importance to the program may not get the attention it deserves.

Mike Williams came to UC as ready to help as much as he was needed to help, then he tore his achilles tendon and lost another year.  At seasons end the proper paperwork will be filed with the NCAA to see if he can get a 6th year.  Remember Ben Mauck?  Mike will be recognized Saturday with hopes he will see it again next year.

Connor Barwin was not included in the press conference but he will be involved Saturday.  Like Brandon Miller, Coach Cronin said that Connor was more important to the survival of the program that most will ever realize.  He is also happy that his "football player" will be there Saturday, with his parents.

Tickets are on sale for the game Saturday for $10.

These seniors deserve a full house. Game time:  Noon.  TV  ESPN 360 

2009 Football Schedule

The 2009 Football schedule for the University of Cincinnati Bearcats has been announced and shows many great match ups. The Bearcats open the season with a Thursday night game on September 5, which is labor day, at Big East opponent Rutgers. After games against Southeast Missouri State, Oregon State, and Fresno State, UC heads to Miami (OH) to play the Red Hawks. Cincinnati then enters Big East Conference play with match ups against USF, Louisville, Connecticut, Syracuse, and a Friday night game against West Virginia televised by ESPN2. Following a couple of weeks off, UC is scheduled to face off with Big Ten's Illinois at Nippert Stadium. The Bearcats conclude their season with an away game at Pittsburgh on December 5th.

The 2009 season brings just 3 home games against conference opponents and while UC will have 4 away games against Big East teams. Due to the number of teams in the Big East, teams alternate years with having 3 home games and 4 away games against conference teams, and visa versa. Head Coach Brian Kelly is not looking forward to only having 3 home games against Big East teams. The Big East is getting tougher and playing teams on the road just makes it that much harder. None the less, the Bearcats look to build on a solid 2008 season.  

The Full Schedule is Below

- Times are TBD

2009 Football Schedule Announced

Cincinnati Baseball Team Hopes for Nice Weather Against Bradley

The University of Cincinnati baseball team starts it's four game home series against the 2-3 Bradley University Braves on Friday at 4 p.m. The teams will will play a double header on Saturday and finish the series with a 1 p.m. game on Sunday. Friday's game was originally scheduled to be UC's home opener, but due to cancellations of several games the Bearcats scheduled Miami (OH) on March 4 at the Marge Schott Stadium, then making it the home opener. Cincinnati lost to the Red Hawks 11-8. Cincinnati plans on having a spring like weekend and playing all four games, in hopes to improve it's 1-4 record. This series will mark the first meeting between the two teams since 1970. 

Spring Fever: Football Style

Temperatures have finally climbed out of the single digits and spring is on the way.  For most that means the beginning of baseball season, but for some it means the beginning of football season.   That's right, the beginning of football season.  Spring is when the coaches evaluate talent to give them an idea of what they are looking at when camp begins in August.  Now that you're all excited, here is a little video from last years spring practice.  Enjoy....it's just a few weeks away!

Bearcat Bowl  April 25.

The Basketball Barwin

Saturday afternoon Connor Barwin, the basketball player, will be recognized at Fifth Third Arena.  It's senior day and Mick Cronin wants to recognize his former player as a member of the basketball program.  Barwin was a member of the team the Coach Cronin inherited when he took the program over three years ago.   The other seniors are Brandon Miller and Mike Williams.

Is it too late?

After the highest of highs, it's been the lowest of lows.  Beat West Virginia, then loose to South Florida.  With a win Saturday against Seton Hall the Bearcats will lock up the 9th seed in the Big East Conference.  That will get them a first round game against DePaul next Tuesday at noon.  Win that one and they move on to play the #8 seed.  Right now West Virginia and Providence are tied with 10-7 records.  Thursday night Providence plays at Villanova then Saturday West Virginia hosts Louisville.  West Virginia own the tie breaker with a head to head win against the Friars.  That would give UC a possible third shot at Providence Wednesday at noon.   After that more than likely UCONN.  What would winning two in the tournament do?  Time will tell.

Opening Day Comes Early

With all of the snow and ice in the south and along the east coast, a canceled baseball games is some what minor.  That's what keeps happening to the UC baseball team.   A weekend full of games in North Carolina were just canceled and Tuesdays game at Ohio University was canceled as well.  Another change, in the ever changing schedule, has the Bearcats hosting the Miami Redhawks Wednesday at Marge Schott Stadium, first pitch at 4:00.  Temperatures in the high 40's and field turf should make this game playable.    Friday the Bearcats will host Bradley in a four game set that includes a double header on Saturday.

November 28: Illinois@ " The Nip"

The 2009 football season will be the beginnings of a two game agreement between the UC and Illinois.  The Bearcats will make the return to to Champagne in 2013 in early September.  Details:  Click here.

Bad Practice, Bad Game

Going into the game Sunday the Bearcats were over an 8 point underdog, so few expected a win.

What about a 24 point loss?  As the team approaches the end of it's season every game has the potential to make or break " the resume".  How will the game at Syracuse effect their ability to make the field of 64?  With an expected loss does it matter that the end result was worse than expected?  Only time will tell.  Beating South Florida is the next task at hand and a loss there could be worse than the one in Syracuse.   Coach Cronin said after the game that they delayed the charter flight out of Cincinnati Saturday because the teams practice was so bad.  Without a game the next day Cronin said he would have thrown them out and started fresh the next day.  The team is heading straight to Tampa for their game Tuesday so Bearcat Sports Page will have no interviews before the South Florida game.

The Log Jam

Here is what the Big East looks like in the middle of the pack:

Providence        9-7

UC                      8-7

Syracuse            8-7

West Virginia   8-7

Notre Dame     7-9

Georgetown    6-10

UCONN, Pitt, Louisville, Marquette, and Villanova are separated with 2,3 and 5 losses.

So with just three games left UC could still go 10-8 with a shot of 11-7.

Looking at Syracuse

Sunday is a big game for the Bearcats, a quality win on the road would do nothing but bolster their NCAA resume.  The players know it won't be easy, Alvin Mitchell says they will have to use a sneak attack.

Coach Mick Cronin knows that this game will be completely different than the one they played Thursday.   It will be a game of keep up, not keep away.

In the past two year UC has played well against Syracuse.  Two years ago a "talent deficient" Bearcats team almost upset The Orange in the Carrier Dome, last year they managed a split. UC  won on the home floor and came close an upset again in Syracuse.

One problem UC has going into the game is that the Carrier Dome is a difficult place to play, for many reasons.   When full it's very loud, and for shooting the background is different from what visiting teams are used to.

Syracuse tries to force teams into taking quick three pointers,  Deonta Vaughn hopes that UC can take advantage of that.

UC @ Syracuse  Sunday 2:00 Tip Time    Local TV:  Fox Sports  #43 Time Warner Cable  Radio: WEBN 102.7 FM    Reds game on WLW 

Experts Say: Cats Are In

It looks like the Bearcats have gone from being "in the conversation" to being in the field of 64.  That is according to some of the "experts" out there.   None of these experts will have a say on selection Sunday, but it certainly doesn't hurt to have the team mentioned as part of the field.  Here are some links to a few of the different brackets we found.  

ESPN Bracketology:  Click Here

Hoops Report:  Click Here

The Bracket Project:  Click here.

R P I Report:  Click here.

CBS Jerry Palm:  Click here.

There is some consistency with putting UC as an 11 or 12 seed.  A close loss Sunday at Syracuse is thought to have no damage to UC's resume and a win on the road would help greatly.

Continue the Locker Room Lock Out

With the win Thursday night the team earned their way back into the players locker room.   Following the Louisville loss Coach Mick Cronin locked the door on the players locker room and moved the team to a different locker room on the second floor of the Lindner Center. Deonta Vaughn like the lessons they learned, and wants to stay there.

Willliams Sore Knee Still Questionable

Thursday night the Bearcats went into battle with out one of their team leaders.  Mike Williams was side lined with a sprained knee.  How's he doing and will he play Sunday at Syracuse? 

In his absence freshman Yancy Gates stepped up his game and poured in 22 points wile grabbing 11 rebounds.  

The Day After, Still a Big Win

UC assistant athletic director Mike Harris summed it up best Friday when he said, "it's a great day to be a Bearcat fan".  It's the day after a big win against West Virginia and the players are not caught up in the celebration, instead they are looking back at it with appreciation.

It was a sign this team is maturing.  The youngsters are growing up.  Thursday night they went into a must win game without one of their senior leaders, Mike Williams was on the bench with a sore knee.

Deonta Vaughn said the teams recent confidence helped them, but so did following the game plan and playing defense.

Press Conference Today: Main Topic, Basketball ?

Friday afternoon before practice Coach Cronin and a few select players will address the media.  Bearcat Sports Page will be there and should have comments up and available later this afternoon.   Since Mick Cronin has no obvious "relationship" with Syracuse head coach Jim Boeheim the focus of the discussions should be on basketball.  After the past 10 days that will certainly be welcomed by both the coach and his players.   After last nights game odds are the team earned their way back in their own locker room.  We'll let you know later this afternoon.

Big Time Basketball Returns

Thursday is the way it used to be on campus in February.  A big game that night, ESPN trucks outside of 'The Shoe", and students talking about going to the game.  Ironically the man who brought this atmosphere to campus many years ago was partly responsible for it's return Thursday.  Bob Huggins brought  people back to UC basketball last night and the current team certainly did enough to make them want to stay.  Saturday March 7  12 Noon  Seton Hall @ Fifth Third Arena.  Plenty of tickets available, at least for now.

What about the Game, It's a BIG one

Last year when UC beat West Virginia the Bearcats were able to hold Bob Huggins to o points, but Mick Cronin was also scoreless in his teams win.

Enough with the coaches, neither of them will hit the winning shot Thursday night.    The Mountaineers come into the game in a much better position for the NCAA Tournament than UC is, that's why this is a must win game for the home team.

Coach Cronin knows that West Virginia is a very good basketball team, here is his view of the Mountaineers.

On Tuesday when we spoke with the team they were just about to look at film of their up coming opponent, but they already know what WVU is all about.

That's a look at the opponent in this very important game.    As for the degree of "importance", it must be big.  ESPN is sending the team of Brent Musburger and Bob Knight. Which leaves one very big question.  UC has only played Ohio State once in the past 50 years, how will Brent work the Buckeyes into the conversation?

Game Time:  7:30   TV:  ESPN   Radio:  WLW

Students Have Already Moved On

The talk of the town is the return of Bob Huggins to Clifton Thursday night.  Talk show hosts and callers go back and fourth on the issue, most agree to disagree.  The event to honor the former coach could bring "closure" but as Liz Idzakovich reports the student body may have already moved on.

Meeker: Mick introduced Me to Huggins

With the return of Bob Huggins Thursday night the newspapers and the air waves have been loaded with stories of the "good ole' days" in Clifton.  We recently caught up with one of Huggins former players, John Meeker.  We asked John what kind of relationship he has with his former Bearcat coach, as well as the current Bearcat coach.

Loyalty to a program, a coach and a team have been an issue for many over the past four years.  We asked John his thoughts on fans loyalties, and where he stands on the issue.

Of course we had to ask him if he had a favorite story about his old coach. 

That journal would certainly be interesting.   After graduation John remained in Cincinnati and now works for Cincinnati Bell Technology Solutions.   He remains active at UC both as a fan of all sports, as well as a member of "rejuvenated " C -Club.  Next week we will post some of Johns observations of this years team.  You'll never guess what former team mate he would put on this years team.

Again we want to thank John for taking time out of his busy schedule to speak with us.  

Vote For Bearcat Sports Page

1530 Homer afternoon sports talk show host Lance McAlister has a poll on his blog questioning where people get their UC news from.  If you get a chance stop over an vote for us.  To get to the blog:  Click here.   Scroll down, it's on the right side below his picture.  For those that have never visited Lance's blog, it is the single best source of sports information for all Cincinnati sports.  He does a tremendous job of covering all Cincinati sports, past and present.

Coach Cronin Talks About Coach Huggins

Before the Louisville game last week Mick Cronin said he is looking forward to the day that UC can play the Cardinals and West Virginia with the focus being on the game and not the coaches. Maybe next year, because that certainly won't be the case Thursday night.  When he met with the media Tuesday afternoon Coach Cronin addressed a number of topics about Bob Huggins return to Cincinnati.  One of which is the difficulty of following a man a popular as Huggins.

Coach Cronin left Cincinnati to take a job with Rick Pitino at Louisville.  Since then a question that always comes up is,  what kind of relationship does he have with his former head coach. 

Like most Bearcat fans Mick Cronin thought that Bob Huggins would always be the head coach at UC.  As a mater of fact he made a bet with Huggins on that subject and now it's time to pay up.

Notice how Coach Cronin said he made that bet with Huggins while he was the head coach at Murray State.  That was years after he left Cincinnati for Louisville.  That should help end the "relationship" question, that tells me that they do talk and keep up with each other.  Later today we will bring you more from our interview with former Bearcat John Meeker.   As a former player he sheds a pretty good light on the return of Coach Huggins as well as looking at this years team.

John Meeker, Loosing the Locker Room Works

This isn't the first time a UC tam has been locked out of their locker room and lost their "gear". Bob Huggins was known for using a similar motivational tactic with his teams when he was the head coach.  We caught up with former Bearcat, and fan favorite, John Meeker.  John remembers going through the same thing and said that it's not just a coaches trick, it works.

We will have more with this former Bearcat through out the week, including his thoughts on his old coach coming back to town.  John is currently working for Cincinnati Bell Technology Solutions as a Senior Account  Manager here in town.

Locker Room Lock Out

In Saturdays loss to Louisville Coach Mick Cronin didn't like what he saw out of his team. Following the game he sat them down to watch film and Monday when they went to practice they were locked out of the players locker room.

What was the players reaction to loosing their "creature comforts"?

Not only did they loose their locker room privileges, they lost their Bearcat gear too.

The purpose of such a measure is to make a point with the team.  Apparently they got the message.  For one Larry Davis said this is the maddest he's seen his coach.

Coach Mick Cronin spoke after the Louisville game about how it's much more difficult to go from sixth in the conference to the top, as opposed from going to the basement to sixth.  In his eyes now that UC is sixth, it's time to take it to the next level, and in that next level there are no moral victories.

Coach Cronin speaks of taking the program to the next level.  One problem is not having anyone in the locker room that has been there.  Part of the "banishment" is a message to the teams leaders, and that includes a guy that has been very instrumental in taking UC from the basement to the middle of the pack.

There was a fair share of discussion about the return of Bob Huggins on Thursday night.  The evening news may have a few short clips, but Bearcat Sports Page.com will bring you the "entire comment".  Unfortunately, the evening news is limited by the amount they can use, we are not.   Several of Coach Cronin's thoughts were well over a minute.   We will have them all over the next couple of days.

NFL Combine: An Agent's View

In our many trip to Indianapolis to cover the NFL Scouting combine we talked to the UC players themselves and got a feel for how they were doing by talking to other members of the media.

This  posting gives you a completely different look at the combine, from the perspective of a sports agent.  We sat down with Connor Barwin's agent, Scott Smith, and talked to him about how his client was doing during this process.  He said that Conner was doing great, but did UC properly prepare him for this experience?

The workouts at the combine get most of the press but it's what the media doesn't see that can make or break the trip to Indy.  Workouts can happen a number of places, but the interviews at the combine are a one shot deal for both the players and the teams.  Scott knew Connor would do well with interviews, but not this good.

The combine is often call a "job interview", and that's how Connor is approaching it.  Scott and his team at XAM Sports and Entertainment put together a book that contains information on each NFL team.  Connor studies this before each interview, something that separates him form the rest of the "job candidates".

We want to thank Scott and the rest of his team from XAM Sports and Entertainment for their cooperation in Indianapolis.  For more information on the XAM group and what they offer their clients, click here.

NFL Combine: How Did They Do?

As we conclude our coverage of the NFL scouting combine this past week in Indianapolis we are going to hear from a man that heard hundreds of player interviews over the 4 day period. Joe Reedy was the writer from the Cincinnati Enquirer that covered the combine.  From where he sat, the UC players represented themselves and the University well with the press.

So did the players from UC create any kind of a "buzz" in the room among the many writers from all over the country?

 

The combine turned out to be a win/win.   After meeting with the media the players have left a favorable impression of UC with all of the writers there covering the event.  The players also stand to benefit from the way UC prepared them, both on and off of the field.

Artrell Hawkins and DeAngelo Smith

Former UC defensive back Artrell Hawkins his helping DeAngelo Smith get ready for the draft. There is a great article on this the Bengals web site.  Geoff Hobson has the story:  Click here.

Baseball fall to 0-3 on the season

The baseball team was unable to come home with a win from the Big East/Big Ten challenge as they lost a back-and-forth battle to Ohio State, 5-6 earlier today.

The Bearcats jumped out to a 2-0 lead, scoring a run apiece in the first 2 innings. Ohio State came back to take their first lead in the bottom of the second after Brian DeLucia hit a three-run homer. After trading leads, Cameron Satterwhite tied the game at 5 with his first home run of the season. Errors hurt the Bearcats in the fifth inning, as a field error allowed Buckeye Michael Stephens to reach 1st, before advancing to second on a balk. He was later driven in by a sacrifice fly. 

For complete coverage: Click Here

UC will travel to Davidson, NC, Feb 27-March 1, where they will face Davidson, Georgetown, and Penn