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Gateway still waiting for Cuyahoga County plan to split 'sin tax' to pay for stadium upkeep

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The non-profit landlord for Progressive Field and Quicken Loans Arena is still waiting for a proposal from Cuyahoga County on how the 'sin tax' approved by voters last year will be split between Cleveland's professional sports facilities.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The non-profit landlord for Progressive Field and Quicken Loans Arena is still waiting for a proposal from Cuyahoga County on how the "sin tax" approved by voters last year will be split among Cleveland's professional sports facilities.

"The money belongs to the county, and we have heard nothing from the county," Tim Offtermatt, chairman of the board for the Gateway Economic Development Corporation, said during a Wednesday board meeting.

County Executive Armond Budish is working on a sin-tax proposal, said Matt Carroll, a special assistant to Budish.

"It's an ongoing discussion," said Carroll, who also sits on Gateway's board.

County voters in May 2014 approved a 20-year extension of the sin tax, a countywide tax on alcohol and cigarettes, to pay for sports facilities upkeep.

The county will begin collecting the tax approved by voters in July.

The tax is expected to generate least $260 million over its life. County officials will decide how it will be split among The Q and Progressive Field, which are owned by Gateway, and FirstEnergy Stadium, which is owned by the Cleveland city government.

Budish's predecessor, Ed FitzGerald, last year proposed allocating the sin tax in part based on the on-the-field performance of the teams that use the facilities, but the plan failed to gain support.

In advance of the new sin tax collections, the Cleveland Cavaliers have already moved forward with some work at Quicken Loans Arena, including a new scoreboard that cost $9.6 million, Gateway staff said.

The team fronted the money for the scoreboard and other arena work, and will apply to be reimbursed, subject to Gateway approval, by sin tax revenues at some point in the future.

In other business, the Gateway board on Wednesday voted, pending an engineering review, not to object to a sign proposed by the Cleveland Indians that would brand the right-field light fixtures in Progressive Field as the "KeyBank Light Towers."

The sign, which would be roughly 10 feet high and 90 feet wide, is still subject to approval by Cleveland's Planning Commission and Landmarks Commission.

Board members also reviewed documents that disclosed the Indians and a team concessionaire have paid $7.7 million so far for ongoing renovations that would reduce the capacity of Progressive Field from 42,400 to 35,400.

The improvements, which also add more common areas as part of an effort to boost sagging attendance, are on track to be completed by the time the team begins playing in April, Gateway staff members said.

Finally, Offtermatt said the Cavs still have not come forward with an expected proposal to overhaul The Q. The team last year quietly approached county officials for taxpayer support for the plan.

"Maybe we'll entertain a proposal in May, or later, if they're ready," Offtermatt said.

The Cavs have not publicly shared details, but it's believed their plan would increase the arena's square footage. Budish has not said whether he would agree to fund the plan.


Cleveland Browns head coach Mike Pettine on Jordan Cameron, Brian Hoyer, Jimmy Haslam (video)

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Mike Pettine talks about Brian Hoyer, Jordan Cameron and more. Watch video

INDIANAPOLIS -- We showed you video of Mike Pettine talking about Johnny Manziel. We showed you video of Pettine saying he "wasn't thrilled" about Ray Farmer's in-game texting. Now we bring you everything else Mike Pettine talked about on Wednesday at the 2015 NFL Draft Combine.

Here are some of the topics:

  • Jordan Cameron
  • Brian Hoyer
  • Kevin O'Connell and Marcus Mariota
  • The vibe in Berea

Check out the video above and get complete coverage of all of Wednesday's action at the combine at cleveland.com/browns.

More Pettine videos:

Watch Cavs Insider with Chris Fedor, Bud Shaw and Chris Haynes live at 2 p.m.

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Talk Cavaliers and ask your questions during a live show at 2 p.m.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The All-Star break is now over and the Cleveland Cavaliers will get back to work, preparing for the final 27 games of the regular season. The Cavs will tip off the latter portion of the season on Friday night when they play the Washington Wizards, the first of a tough stretch of games

Chris Fedor, Bud Shaw and Chris Haynes will get you ready for the second half of the season today at 2 p.m. 

We'll discuss the state of the Cavaliers, whether they are equipped to win an NBA championship and which team in the Eastern Conference poses the biggest threat. We'll also talk about the upcoming NBA trade deadline, the Cavs' interest in Ray Allen and other players that could be options for the Cavs. 

Leave your questions in the comments below and we'll answer as many as we can throughout the show.

Ray Farmer apologizes and the Browns circle the wagons: Midday report from the combine

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Watch our midday report as we talk Ray Farmer and more. Watch video

INDIANAPOLIS -- We've heard from everyone now concerning "Textgate." Jimmy Haslam spoke last week. Mike Pettine talked on Wednesday. And Ray Farmer batted cleanup, taking responsibility for sending texts to the Browns coaching staff during games and apologizing.

Mary Kay Cabot and I discussed Ray Farmer's comments and whether the Browns will be able to finally move on from the controversy swirling around the team. We also talked about Farmer and Pettine coming to owner Jimmy Haslam's defense and how the Browns have handled the adversity over the past week right when it felt like the offseason was spinning out of control.

Cleveland Browns can't afford to miss again in the first round, says reporter Jarrett Bell (video)

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George Whitfield hopes rehab will help Johnny Manziel on and off the field. Watch video

INDIANAPOLIS -- The Cleveland Browns selected CB Justin Gilbert and QB Johnny Manziel in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft, and neither player had much of an impact during their rookie seasons.

Gilbert, projected to start in his first season, was mediocre at best. Manziel's story on and off the field has been well documented. USA Today reporter Jarrett Bell, in a video interview with The Plain Dealer from the 2015 NFL combine, said the Browns can't afford to miss with their two picks this time around.

In another interview, QB guru George Whitfield said Manziel will have to help himself more off the field before he can make corrections on the field. Manziel admitting himself into rehab is a step in the right direction, Whitfield said.

See top player stats for girls basketball players in Northeast Ohio for the regular season

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A look at how the top girls basketball players finished in stats this regular season.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Below is the latest set of cumulative statistics for girls basketball players.

Look for this statistical leaders list from across the area every week. The deadline for schools to enter their stats to be eligible for these posts is Friday at 7: p.m. The stats below reflect what was entered in the database as of Thursday morning.


Each list is based on stats provided by area schools. Don't see your team included? Please ask your coach or athletic director to participate in the Northeast Ohio Media Group's stats program. If they need access to the database ask the coach, athletic director or statistician to email high school sports manager Kristen Davis at kdavis@cleveland.com.


POINTS


(Click here to see stats for every player entered in the database)


Anna Hall, Walsh Jesuit, 468 points.


Darian Carter, Firestone, 463.


Alison Schafer, Columbia, 440.


Lexi Civittolo, Cloverleaf, 414.


Jenna Stegmaier, Cuyahoga Heights, 411.


Nicole Felice, Laurel, 400.


Deja Winters, Richmond Heights, 376.


Sydney Ruole, Amherst, 368.


Naz Hillmon, Gilmour, 364.


Ali Balthaser, Avon Lake, 347.


FIELD GOALS


(Click here to see stats for every player entered in the database)


Anna Hall, Walsh Jesuit, 167 field goals.


Darian Carter, Firestone, 164.


Nicole Felice, Laurel, 154.


Naz Hillmon, Gilmour, 146.


Jenna Stegmaier, Cuyahoga Heights, 144.


Hallie Thome, Chagrin Falls, 143.


Mariah Porter, Wickliffe, 137.


Lexi Civittolo, Cloverleaf, 134.


Alison Schafer, Columbia, 132.


Jade Duval, Andrews Osborne Academy, 131.


Deja Winters, Richmond Heights, 131.

FREE THROWS


(Click here to see stats for every player entered in the database)


Lexi Civittolo, Cloverleaf, 116 free throws.


Anna Hall, Walsh Jesuit, 109.


Monica Fury, Westlake, 106.


Jodi Johnson, Wadsworth, 103.


Darian Carter, Firestone, 103.


Abbe Esterak, Woodridge, 101.


Alison Schafer, Columbia, 100.


Jenna Stegmaier, Cuyahoga Heights, 98.


Sydney Roule, Amherst, 96.


Erin Sims, Strongsville, 95.


3-POINTERS


(Click here to see stats for every player entered in the database)


Emily Kelley, Gilmour, 71 3-pointers.


Alison Schaefer, Columbia, 71.


Emily Oliver, Hawken, 57.


Sydney Roule, Amherst, 55.


Morgan Daniel, East Tech, 44.


Gia DiMassa, St. Joseph Academy, 42.


Kelsey Metlesitz, Normandy, 39.


Hailey Grant, St. Joseph Academy, 39.


Ali Balthaser, Avon Lake, 39.


Ariel Rebello, Cuyahoga Heights, 39.


REBOUNDS


(Click here to see stats for every player entered in the database)


Darian Carter, Firestone, 336 rebounds.


Brooke Wallace, Amherst, 263.


Grayson Rose, Garretsville Garfield, 263.


Keely Hall, Firelands, 262.


Alex Cade, Laurel, 250.


Naz Hillmon, Gilmour, 237.


Gabbi Culotta, Andrews Osborne Academy, 229.


Jada Stevens, Beachwood, 224.


Brittany Morrison, St. Joseph Academy, 223.


Dani Lawson, Hathaway Brown, 201.


BLOCKS


(Click here to see stats for every player entered in the database)


Lindsay Thall, Strongsville, 71 blocks.


Grayson Rose, Garrettsville Garfield, 66.


Keely Hall, Firelands, 65.


Naz Hillmon, Gilmour, 64.


Kiara Thompson, East Tech, 64.


Brooke Wallace, Amherst, 61.


Hallie Thome, Chagrin Falls, 52.


Natale Hill, Beachwood, 43.


Amari Davidson, Avon, 42.


Jade Duval, Andrews Osborne Academy, 41.


STEALS


(Click here to see stats for every player entered in the database)


Nicole Felice, Laurel, 120 steals.


D'Von Williams, Firestone, 96.


Jade Duval, Andrews Osborne Academy, 79


Erin Sims, Strongsville, 78.


Ryann Greenfield, Lakewood, 70.


Corrione Cardwell, East Tech, 68.


Ave Illig, Cloverleaf, 65.


Shawnshirae Brown-Kirby, Shaw, 64.


Abbe Esterak, Woodridge, 62.


Maddie Holmes, Bay, 61.


Sarah Sprecher, Avon, 61.


Danielle Drockton, Hawken, 61.


ASSISTS




(Click here to see stats for every player entered in the database)


D'Von Williams, Firestone, 114 assists.


Marissa Finazzo, Gilmour, 100.


Kelsey Metlesitz, Normandy, 93.


Sarah Winkel, Avon Lake, 91.


Shantell Bostick, East Tech, 80.


Sydney Roule, Amherst, 77.


Corrione Cardwell, East Tech, 74.


Abbe Esterak, Woodridge, 71.


Mikayla Harper, Lakewood, 68.


Alexis Hope, Berea-Midpark, 68.





St. Edward's Kipper Nichols hit a buzzer-beater vs. Shaker Heights, and then Twitter went crazy

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See Tweets and reaction from players, coaches and fans after St. Edward basketball star Kipper Nichols hit a buzzer-beating shot to down visiting Shaker Heights.

LAKEWOOD, Ohio -- With the score tied Wednesday at 65-65, St. Edward senior forward Kipper Nichols drove from the right wing and put up a buzzer-beating shot that lifted the No. 3-ranked Eagles to a two-point win against visiting Shaker Heights.

And then Twitter went nuts.


Teammates, classmates and coaches Tweeted their reaction to the play. Fans Tweeted videos of the play and photos of the aftermath. Here are some of the best reaction's to Nichols' game winner.


Cleveland Browns' wide receiver Josh Gordon is a strain on NFL defenses and common sense -- Bud Shaw's You Said It

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Cleveland Browns fans have questions about Josh Gordon, the new logo and what it means to rebrand a franchise -- Bud Shaw's You Said It.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- You Said It is based on the premise that the only thing Cleveland sports fans need more than a championship is a sense of humor...

YOU SAID IT

(The Early Weekend Edition)

Bud: How was Josh Gordon supposed to know he was late for practice when there was no one there to tell him? -- Michael Sarro

In his defense, who's to say the janitor emptying waste cans wasn't early?

Bud: Tiger Woods attributed his poor play recently to problems activating his glutes. Is there a similar malady affecting sports writers? -- Bob, Shaker

Can't speak for anybody else, but I've been told by players and coaches over the years that mine are somehow activated every time I open my mouth.

Bud: I have an idea to save the fans some money: instead of buying whatever management comes up with as a new logo, why don't we all just fly our Browns helmet flags upside down? -- Geoff, Shaker

I thought that was already a Sunday tradition, or is that only half-mast?

Bud: Will Josh Gordon sue the person responsible for the 'second hand' marijuana smoke he inhaled or the cough syrup company? -- Jim Corrigan, Fairview

When I hear Gordon's claims that he's been wronged by various parties, why do I think "Better Call Saul."



Bud: I was in a good mood as I began to read your Wednesday Spin Column. Then I saw the picture of Joe Banner in your column staring at me. That was the start of an irrelevant day for me. -- Glenn Berger 

For all of our sakes, I wish I could say a Spin reader having an irrelevant day was an unusual occurrence.

Bud: Any truth to rumor about the Browns' new logo being an Elf with a cell phone? - O. Bill Stone

First-time You Said It winners receive a T-shirt from the Mental Floss collection.



Bud: Should somebody tell LeBron that in the entire history of the sport only the great Jackie Moon of the Flint Tropics was able to pull off player, coach, owner!!!! -- Scoop, Middleburg Heights

Repeat winners demanding another shirt need to find chill mode.

Bud: When Tiger plays in his next tournament, with what pro do you think he would like to be teamed? --Jim Lefkowitz, Pepper Pike.

Repeat winners do not get a T-shirt mulligan.


8th annual Steelhead Workshop on tap; Lake Milton archery shoots begin -- Outdoors Calendar for Feb. 20

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To get ready for the spring steelhead trout fishing on the waterways anglers can attend the 8th annual Steelhead workshop on Feb. 26.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - The Outdoors Calendar for Feb. 20:

The local rivers and streams are covered in ice right now, but the warmer weather will return. To get ready for the spring steelhead trout fishing on the waterways anglers can attend the 8th annual Steelhead workshop on Feb. 26. The first public archery shoot of the season is being held on Saturday and Sunday at the Lake Milton Fish & Game Club.

Feb. 21-22: 3-D Archery Shoot at Lake Milton Fish & Game Club, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Open to the public, crossbows permitted. Registration on Saturday (8 a.m.-3 p.m.) and Sunday (8 a.m.-1 p.m.) Adults $10, kids $5. Breakfast 8-10 a.m., lunch after 10 a.m. For information visit lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or contact Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

Feb. 22: All-Breed Hunter's Trial and Youth Trial, 8 a.m., Silver Dollar Sportsman's Club, 4990 Secrest Rd., Wooster. To enter call Ron Burkey, 330-988-3987. For rules, complete schedule visit hunterstrial.com.

Feb. 22: Turkey Shoots

  • South Cuyahoga Sportsmen's Meat Shoot, 9 a.m., 19300 Ridge Rd., North Royalton. Targets $3 per shot. Breakfast is $3 from 7-9 a.m.

Feb. 25: Fly Tying Sessions with the Firelands Fly Fishers, 6-9 p.m., Gus's Village Grill, 4343 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village. Open to the public. For information visit firelandsflyfishers.org.

Feb. 26: 8th annual Steelhead Workshop, 7:30 p.m., free, Ohio Central Basin Steelheaders at Buffalo Wild Wings, 8465 Pearl Rd., Strongsville. For information visit ohiosteelheaders.com.

Feb. 26: 6th annual Maple Country Coyote Open, Maple Country Chapter of the National Wild turkey Federation, Entry $10 per hunter. Coyote Open runs through March 1. Final weigh-in at 7 p.m. at Hambden Country Inn, 13960 State Route 166, Hambden. To register call Bill Trump, 440-983-7203, Tony bitner, 440-221-9786, Adam Hollobaugh, 440-313-7406 or Matt McDermott, 330-221-3063.

Feb. 26: Monthly meeting of the Chagrin River Salmon Association, 7 p.m., Erie Rd., Eastlake.

Feb. 28: QDMA Deer Seminar on food plots, forestry management and tree selection, Western Reserve Branch of the Quality Deer Management Association, 10 a.m., South Cuyahoga Sportsmen's Association, Erhart Rd., Chatham Township. Seminar free, lunch provided. Reservations needed. Call Drew Hutzel, 330-416-5727. Kids welcome.

Feb. 28: Gun Banquet 2015 - The Banquet Finale, 6 p.m., Wagner's of Westlake, 30855 Center Ridge Rd., Westlake. Open buffet from 6:30-8 p.m. Hosted by Brian's Deer Cutting and Silver Mountain Taxidermy. Tickets $100 and $50. Ladies ticket $20. For tickets, information visit gunbanquet2015.com.

March 1: All-Breed Hunter's Trial, 8 a.m., Cuyahoga Coon Hunters Association, West 130th St. at Sleepy Holly Dr., Hinckley. To enter contact Bert Scalli, Scalli44212@aol.com or 216-513-9147. For rules, complete schedule visit hunterstrial.com.

March 1: Turkey Shoots

  • South Cuyahoga Sportsmen's Meat Shoot, 9 a.m., 19300 Ridge Rd., North Royalton. Targets $3 per shot. Breakfast is $3 from 7-9 a.m.

March 4: Fly Tying Sessions with the Firelands Fly Fishers, 6-9 p.m., Gus's Village Grill, 4343 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village. Open to the public. For information visit firelandsflyfishers.org.

March 4: Boating Course: Getting Ready For Summer!, 6-9 p.m., Firestone Metro Park, Coventry Oaks Area, 40 Axline Ave., Akron. First of three nights of an NASBLA-approved Ohio boating course. Other classes on March 11 and March 18. Fee $5. Advance registration required starting Feb. 24. Call 330-865-8065.

March 6: Fly Fishing Film Tour 2015 at The Trout Club of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, 1 Wade Oval, Cleveland. Tickets $15, $20 at the door. Reception and fishing exhibits at 5:30 p.m., film at 7 p.m. Call Karen Menn, 216-231-4600 (Ext. 3278).

March 6-8: Niles Sportsman's Show, Eastwood Expo Center behind Eastwood Mall, Rt. 422, Niles. Fishing, hunting, boating, RV exhibits. For information, contact Field & Field Report, 330-544-8951 or visit fishnfieldreport.com. Show hours: Friday, noon-8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission $6, kids 12 and under free. Free fishing rods to first 100 children on Saturday and Sunday.

March 6-8: Berlin Bass Casters Fishing Expo, Minerva Community Building, 123 Brock Ave., Minerva. Show hours: Friday, 4-8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

March 7: Ohio Division of Wildlife Open House, all five district offices, noon-3 p.m. In Northeast Ohio the Open House is being held at the Akron District Office, 912 Portage Lakes Dr. Call 1-800-WILDLIFE or visit or visit wildlife.ohiodnr.gov

March 7: 34th annual Ohio Charter Captain Conference, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Cedar Point Conference Center, BGSU-Firelands Campus, 1 University Dr., Huron. Registration $45, Feb. 27 deadline. Contact Tory Gabriel of Ohio Sea Grant, 419-898-3631, Gabriel.78@osu.edu.

March 7: Ohio Chapter of Safari Club International annual fundraiser and banquet, Michaud's' Towne & Country, 16808 Pearl Rd., Strongsville. Tickets $50. Hunting exhibits, raffles, games. Contact Paul Potemski, paul@twendesafarissa.com or call Mike Samsel, 216-241-0333.

March 7: Ohio Walleye Federation Annual Banquet, Christopher Columbus Hall, 505 S. Liberty Ave., Alliance. For information visit fishowf.com.

March 7: Hole in the Horn Chapter Hunters Night Out, Whitetails Unlimited, Kent American Legion Banquet Facility, 145 Mogadore Rd., Kent. Tickets $45, spouse and youth $30. Dinner, raffles, games and appearance by Travis "T-Bone" Turner on the Bone Collector television show. Call Luke Kuzma, 330-472-8971 or visit whitetailsunlimited.com.

March 8: All-Breed Hunter's Trial, 8 a.m., R & G Ventures at Cuyahoga Coon Hunters Association, West 130th St. at Sleepy Hollow Rd., Hinckley. To enter call John Rizzo, 440-338-6578. For rules, complete schedule visit hunterstrial.com.

March 8: Turkey Shoots

  • South Cuyahoga Sportsmen's Meat Shoot, 9 a.m., 19300 Ridge Rd., North Royalton. Targets $3 per shot. Breakfast is $3 from 7-9 a.m.

March 10: Beginning Warm Water Fly Patterns with Jerry Darkes, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Backpackers Shop, 5128 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village. Expand your fly tying skills to cover both surface and sub-surface patterns for warm water fishing. Fee $40, includes materials. Students need vise and basic tools. Limited to eight students. Call 440-934-5345 or visit backpackersshop.com.

March 11: Lee Janik presentation on fly rods, Firelands Fly Fishers, French Creek Nature Center, 4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village. Club meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. Open to the public. For information visit firelandsflyfishers.org.

March 11: Wildlife Diversity Conference 2015, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Aladdin Shriners' Complex, 3850 Stelzer Rd., Columbus. Registration $25, students $10. This year's theme is Wildlife Challenges & Positive Connections and features talks ranging from raising hellbenders to urban wildlife resolution. For information, visit wildohio.gov.

March 13-15: Ohio Deer & Turkey Expo, Bricker Building, Ohio Expo Center, Ohio State Fairgrounds, Columbus. Hunting exhibits, big deer contest, seminars. Show hours: Friday, 2-9 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. For information visit deerinfo.com/ohio.

March 14: 24th annual Pheasants Forever Banquet, 5 p.m., Erie-Ottawa-Sandusky Chapter, Camp Perry Club House, Oak Harbor. Dinner, drawings, raffles, silent auction, games and gun raffles. Admission $60, spouse $25, youth $25. Call Joe Uhinck, 419-898-1595 or Dan Brough, 419-270-3259.

March 14: Whitetails Unlimited Central Ohio Deer Camp Tour 2015, Grand Valley Dale Ballroom, 1590 Sunbury Rd., Columbus. Hunting exhibits, raffles, games, buffet dinner featuring Travis "T-Bone" Turner of the Bone Collector television show. Tickets $40. Doors open at 5 p.m., buffet at 7 p.m. For information, tickets visit whitetailsunlimited.com.

March 14: Coyote Seminar with Abner Druckenmiller of FoxPro Inc., 7 p.m., Leetonia Sportsman's Club, 311 East High St., Leetonia. Fee $10, kids 15 and under free with adult. Contact Bill Harding, 330-822-0100, or Rich Oxley, 330-427-6431. Leetonia Coyote Hunt 2015 will be held March 27-29.

March 14-15: Ohio Decoy & Wildlife Art Show, Ohio Decoy Collectors and Carvers Association, Strongsville Holiday Inn, 125471 Royalton Rd., Strongsville. Show hours: Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Decoy contests, exhibits, seminars and auctions. Admission $5. For information visit odcca.net

March 15: All-Breed Hunter's Trial and Youth Trial, 8 a.m., South Cuyahoga Sportsmen's Association, 5370 Erhart Rd., Chatham. To enter call Mike Kristof, 216-663-6427. For rules, complete schedule visit hunterstrial.com.

March 15: Turkey Shoots

  • South Cuyahoga Sportsmen's Meat Shoot, 9 a.m., 19300 Ridge Rd., North Royalton. Targets $3 per shot. Breakfast is $3 from 7-9 a.m.

March 17: The U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance annual Ohio Legislative Reception, 5:30-7 p.m., free, The Athletic Club of Columbus, 136 E. Broad St., Columbus. For information contact the USSA, 614-888-4868 or info@ussportsmen.org.

Ohio sportsmen have the opportunity to meet and talk to lawmakers about hunting, fishing, trapping and conservation issues.

March 18: Ohio Wildlife Council monthly meeting, 6:30 p.m., Ohio Division of Wildlife District One Headquarters, 1500 Dublin Rd., Columbus. Presentation of 2015-2016 hunting dates, regulations. Call 1-800-WILDLIFE or visit wildlife.ohiodnr.gov.

March 18: Fly Tying Sessions with the Firelands Fly Fishers, 6-9 p.m., Gus's Village Grill, 4343 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village. Open to the public. For information visit firelandsflyfishers.org.

March 19: State Fish and Game Hearings, 9 a.m., Ohio Division of Wildlife District One Headquarters, 1500 Dublin Rd., Columbus. Public hearing on 2015-2016 hunting dates, regulations. Call 1-800-WILDLIFE or visit wildlife.ohiodnr.gov.

March 21: 15th annual Shreve Migration Sensation, family programs from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Shreve Elementary School, 598 N. Market St. (Ohio 226), Shreve. Admission $15, $20 for immediate family. Self-guided birding tours with help stations at Killbuck Marsh, Shreve Lake, Brown's bog and Funk Bottoms wildlife areas. Workshop registration opens at 7 a.m. Visit shreveohio.com/migration-sensation.

March 21-22: 3-D Archery Shoot at Lake Milton Fish & Game Club, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Open to the public, crossbows permitted. Registration on Saturday (8 a.m.-3 p.m.) and Sunday (8 a.m.-1 p.m.) Adults $10, kids $5. Breakfast 8-10 a.m., lunch after 10 a.m. For information visit lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or contact Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

March 22: All-Breed Hunter's Trial and Youth Trial, 8 a.m., Columbia Game Club, 237 Rt. 224, Sullivan. To enter call Frank Reznik, 330-723-1679. For rules, complete schedule visit hunterstrial.com.

March 22: Turkey Shoots

  • South Cuyahoga Sportsmen's Meat Shoot, 9 a.m., 19300 Ridge Rd., North Royalton. Targets $3 per shot. Breakfast is $3 from 7-9 a.m.

March 23: Captain's License Training Class, Lorain Yacht Club, Lorain. To register call Capt. Joseph Poplstein, 440-289-3647.

March 24: Advanced Warm Water Fly Tying Patterns with Jerry Darkes, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Backpackers Shop, 5128 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village. Learn to tie patterns that involve spinning and stacking deer hair and tying bucktail. Fee $40, includes materials. Students need vise and basic tools. Limited to eight students. Call 440-934-5345 or visit backpackersshop.com.

March 25: Fly Tying Sessions with the Firelands Fly Fishers, 6-9 p.m., Gus's Village Grill, 4343 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village. Open to the public. For information visit firelandsflyfishers.org.

March 27: 2015 Awards Banquet & Dinner, North Coast Black Bass Anglers Association, 7 p.m., Croatian Lodge and Party Center, 34900 Lakeshore Blvd., Eastlake. Tickets $30. Contact dennis.knowles@ideastream.org or call 216-337-8891.

March 27-29: Coyote Hunt 2015, Leetonia Sportsman's Club, 311 East High St., Leetonia. Two-hunter teams, entry $30 before March 26 at 8 p.m. Hunt begins March 27 at 12:01 a.m. and runs through March 29 at 6 p.m. Contact Bill Harding, 330-822-0100, or Rich Oxley, 330-427-6431.

March 27: Whitetails Unlimited Big Buckeye Deer Camp Tour 2015, Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center, 7033 Glenn Highway, Cambridge. Hunting exhibits, raffles, games, buffet dinner featuring Travis "T-Bone" Turner of the Bone Collector television show. Tickets $30. Doors open at 5 p.m., buffet at 7 p.m. For information, tickets visit whitetailsunlimited.com.

March 28: 47th annual Invitational Winner's Trial of the All-Breed Hunter's Trial circuit, 8 a.m., Pine Crest Shooting Preserve, 1035 Derussey Rd., New London. Entries closed. For information call Tom Reznik, 440-236-9131.

March 28: 35th annual banquet of the Wayne County Chapter of Ducks Unlimited, 5:30 p.m., Memoria party and Conference Center, 2437B Orrville Rd., Wooster. Tickets $50, $80 couples, $35 greenwings. Call John, 330-317-6814, or Jeff, 330-845-0139.

March 28: 2nd annual Barbie Rod Derby, 6:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Picnic Area at Emerald Necklace Marina, 1500 Scenic Park, Lakewood. Sign-up on Facebook at 2nd Annual Barbie Rod Derby. Visit facebook.com/events/580907695370135/?ref=6&ref_notif_type=plan_edited

March 28-29: 3-D Archery Shoot at Lake Milton Fish & Game Club, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Open to the public, crossbows permitted. Registration on Saturday (8 a.m.-3 p.m.) and Sunday (8 a.m.-1 p.m.) Adults $10, kids $5. Breakfast 8-10 a.m., lunch after 10 a.m. For information visit lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or contact Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

March 28-29: Hunter Education Training Class, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Ohio Division of Wildlife, District Three Headquarters, 912 Portage Lakes Dr., Akron. Classes needed to become a hunter education instructor. No fee, but must be 18 years old, register by Feb. 27, and are required to complete a background check. Applications and background check forms at wildohio.gov. To pre-register contact Ken Fry, 330-245-3030 or kenneth.fry@dnr.state.oh.us

March 29: Turkey Shoots

  • South Cuyahoga Sportsmen's Meat Shoot, 9 a.m., 19300 Ridge Rd., North Royalton. Targets $3 per shot. Breakfast is $3 from 7-9 a.m.

March 29: Electric Elite Invitational Spring Open Bass Tournament, Mogadore Reservoir. Two-angler teams. Visit Franks Bass fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

April 4: KSU Mosquito Thaw Open Bass Tournament, state park ramp, Mosquito Reservoir. A highest finishing collegiate angler wins $1,000 in addition to standard payout. For information visit dobass.com.

April 4: Tying Warmwater Flies with Jerry Darkes, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., The Rodmaker's Shoppe, 20884 Royalton Rd., Strongsville. Learn basic techniques for tying, rigging and fishing bass and panfish flies. Fee $60, includes materials. Students need vise and basic tools. Limited to eight students.

April 8: Ohio Wildlife Council monthly meeting, 6:30 p.m., Ohio Division of Wildlife District One Headquarters, 1500 Dublin Rd., Columbus. Vote by OWC on 2015-2016 hunting dates, regulations. Call 1-800-WILDLIFE or visit wildlife.ohiodnr.gov.

April 8: Cleveland Metroparks Aquatic Biologist Mike Durkalec presentation of "Arctic Char and Brook Trout," Firelands Fly Fishers, French Creek Nature Center, 4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village. Club meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. Open to the public. For information visit firelandsflyfishers.org.

April 11: Castapalooza 2015, free fly fishing seminars, demonstrations, games and prizes, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Lake Metroparks Hidden Valley Reservation, 4872 Klasen Rd., Madison.

April 11: Lake Erie Walleye Trail hosted by the Western Basin Anglers Association. Two-angler teams, Lake Erie at Magee East Marina and Campground, Port Clinton. For information visit wbsa.us or contact Tournament Director Jeff Lash, jlash3@gmail.com.

April 11: Electric Elite Invitational Bass Tournament, Mogadore Reservoir. Two-angler teams. Visit Franks Bass fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

April 11: Killbuck Valley Chapter Hunters Night Out, Whitetails Unlimited, Buckeye Event Center, 624 Henry St., Dalton. Dinner, raffles, door prizes. Tickets $35. Featuring Travis "T-Bone" Turner and Nick Mundt, hosts of the Bone Collector and Realtree Roadtrips television shows. For information, tickets visit whitetailsunlimited.com.

April 11-12: 3-D Archery Turkey Shoot, Geauga Bowmen Archery, 12575 Sperry Rd. Chesterland. Registration from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Public welcome, youth equipment available. Entry $10, kids $5. For information call Mike Ballash, 440-227-6756, or visitwww.geaugabowmen.com.

April 12: The X-Series Bass Tournaments presented by Vic's Sports Center, Kick-Off at the Lakes, new state park ramp, Portage Lakes. For information visit thex-series.com or call George Byers, 330-559-6454 (evenings).

April 12: 3-D Archery Shoot, Lone Eagle Bowmen, 2276 Seeman St. SW (off Battlesburg Rd.) Canton. Registration 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Visit LoneEagleBowmen.com or call Matt Williams (330-575-0744) or Gary Williams (330-484-6535).

April 12: Ohio Walleye Federation/Inland Lake Circuit, two-angler teams, Mosquito Reservoir. For information visit fishowf.com.

April 16-19: Holy Mackerel Fishing Tackle Flea Market, New Russian Township Hall, 46300 Butternut Ridge Rd., Oberlin (north of Oberlin and west of Ohio 58). Free admission and parking. Show hours: Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For information call Mike Wohlever, 440-988-9264 or 440-213-6396.

April 18: Grand River Canoe & Kayak Race, Harpersfield Dam in Ashtabula County to Hidden Valley Park in Madison on the wild and scenic Grand River. Races begin at 8 a.m. Featured is the annual Mad Hatter Contest. Pre-registration required. Call 440-358-7275 or 1-800-669-9226.

April 18: Northern Open Anglers Association bass tournament trail, Mosquito Reservoir. Two-angler teams. Visit Franks Bass fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

April 24: 2nd Amendment Freedom Dinner, Tinker's Creek Chapter of Whitetails Unlimited, The Venue South, Days Inn, 4742 Brecksville Rd., Richfield. Featuring dinner, raffles, game and Travis "T-Bone" Turner of the Bone Collectors television show. Call Matt McCann, 330-467-1729 or visit whitetailsunlimited.com. Tickets $50, spouse or child $30.

April 25: 36th annual Trout Club Banquet and Auction, Cleveland Museum of Natural History, 1 Wade Oval, Cleveland. Fishing exhibits, raffles and auction. For information contact Karen Menn, 216-231-4600 (Ext. 3278) or go to cmnh.org.

April 25: Lake Erie Walleye Trail hosted by the Western Basin Anglers Association. Two-angler teams, Lake Erie at Lakevue Marina, Marblehead. For information visit wbsa.us or contact Tournament Director Jeff Lash, jlash3@gmail.com.

April 25: Electric Elite Invitational Bass Tournament, lake TBA. Two-angler teams. Visit Franks Bass fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

April 25-26: 3-D Archery Shoot at Lake Milton Fish & Game Club, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Open to the public, crossbows permitted. Registration on Saturday (8 a.m.-3 p.m.) and Sunday (8 a.m.-1 p.m.) Adults $10, kids $5. Breakfast 8-10 a.m., lunch after 10 a.m. For information visit lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or contact Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

April 26: Walleye Madness Tournament, Mosquito Reservoir. Two-anglers teams, $150 entry. Visit walleyemadness.net to enter, or call WMT Director Greg Bentz, 440-390-8054.

May 1-3: Lake and Trails Youth Fishing Camp hosted by the Lake and Trails Organization, FFA Camp Muskingum, Carrollton. For kids 9-17 years old and accompanied by an adult. Fee for weekend, room and board is $75 per youth, $85 for adults. Registrations open Feb. 15. Visit lakeandtrails.org or contact President Karen Metzker, Karen @lakeandtrails.org.

May 2-3: Mosquito Madness X Bass Tournament, Mosquito Reservoir. Field of 100 teams is full. Waiting list available. Visit Franks Bass fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

May 3: Lake Erie Fish Crazy Walleye Derby, Lake Erie. Derby runs through June 27. Entry $50, $55 online. Derby registration deadline is April 30. All competing anglers on a boat must be registered for the derby. One-day registration is $25. For rules, information visit lakeeriewalleyederby.com. Weekly, monthly, overall winners.

May 3: Ohio Walleye Federation/Inland Lake Circuit, two-angler teams, Pymatuning Reservoir. For information visit fishowf.com.

May 3: Veterans Memorial 3-D Archery Shoot, Lone Eagle Bowmen, 2276 Seeman St. SW (off Battlesburg Rd.) Canton. All veterans shoot free. Registration 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Visit LoneEagleBowmen.com or call Matt Williams (330-575-0744) or Gary Williams (330-484-6535).

May 9: Electric Elite Invitational Bass Tournament, Walborn Reservoir. Two-angler teams. Visit Franks Bass Fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

May 9-10: 3-D Archery Swap & Shoot, Geauga Bowmen Archery, 12575 Sperry Rd. Chesterland. Registration from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Public welcome, youth equipment available. Entry $10, kids $5. For information call Mike Ballash, 440-227-6756, or visitwww.geaugabowmen.com.

May 16: KSU LaDO Bass Series, LaDue Reservoir. Two-angler teams, electric motors only. Gas boats now permitted. Visit Franks Bass Fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

May 16: Lake Erie Walleye Trail hosted by the Western Basin Anglers Association. Two-angler teams, Lake Erie at Shelby Street Boat Launch, Sandusky. For information visit wbsa.us or contact Tournament Director Jeff Lash, jlash3@gmail.com.

May 16: FLW Bass Fishing League/Buckeye Division Pro-Am Bass Tournament, Grand Lake St. Marys, West Bank Ramp, Celina. For information visit flwoutdoors.com.

May 16: Ohio Walleye Federation/Inland Lake Circuit, two-angler teams, Berlin Reservoir. For information visit fishowf.com.

May 17: The X-Series Bass Tournaments presented by Vic's Sports Center, The Spring Sting, state park ramp, Mosquito Reservoir. For information visit thex-series.com or call George Byers, 330-559-6454 (evenings).

May 17: Walleye Madness Tournament, Berlin Reservoir. Two-anglers teams, $150 entry. Visit walleyemadness.net to enter, or call WMT Director Greg Bentz, 440-390-8054.

May 23-24: 3-D Archery Shoot at Lake Milton Fish & Game Club, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Open to the public, crossbows permitted. Registration on Saturday (8 a.m.-3 p.m.) and Sunday (8 a.m.-1 p.m.) Adults $10, kids $5. Breakfast 8-10 a.m., lunch after 10 a.m. For information visit lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or contact Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

May 30: Mahoning Valley United Way Bass Classic, Evans Lake and Pine Lake. Pro-Am two-angler teams. Hosted by Muransky Companies. Visit ymvunitedway.org/bass-classic or call Jack Wollitz, 330-716-0731.

May 30: Electric Elite Invitational Bass Tournament, Deer Creek Lake. Two-angler teams. Visit Franks Bass fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

May 30-31: 3-D Archery Camp Out Shoot, Geauga Bowmen Archery, 12575 Sperry Rd. Chesterland. Registration from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Public welcome, youth equipment available. Entry $10, kids $5. For information call Mike Ballash, 440-227-6756, or visitwww.geaugabowmen.com.

May 30-31: 3-D Archery Shoot at Lake Milton Fish & Game Club, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Open to the public, crossbows permitted. Registration on Saturday (8 a.m.-3 p.m.) and Sunday (8 a.m.-1 p.m.) Adults $10, kids $5. Breakfast 8-10 a.m., lunch after 10 a.m. For information visit lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or contact Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

June 6: Walleye Madness Tournament, Lake Erie at Cleveland Metroparks Wildwood Launch Ramp. Two-anglers teams, $150 entry. Visit walleyemadness.net to enter, or call WMT Director Greg Bentz, 440-390-8054.

June 6: Northern Open Anglers Association bass tournament trail, Berlin Reservoir. Two-angler teams. Visit Franks Bass Fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

June 6-7: Lake Erie Walleye Trail Championship hosted by the Western Basin Anglers Association. Two-angler teams, Lake Erie at Huron City Boat Launch, Huron. For information visit wbsa.us or contact Tournament Director Jeff Lash, jlash3@gmail.com.

June 7: 3-D Archery Shoot, Lone Eagle Bowmen, 2276 Seeman St. SW (off Battlesburg Rd.) Canton. Registration 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Visit LoneEagleBowmen.com or call Matt Williams (330-575-0744) or Gary Williams (330-484-6535).

June 7: Electric Elite Invitational Summer Open Bass Tournament, Mogadore Reservoir. Two-angler teams. Visit Franks Bass Fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

June 13: KSU LaDO Bass Series, LaDue Reservoir. Two-angler teams, electric motors only. Gas boats now permitted. Visit Franks Bass Fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

June 13-14: Ohio Walleye Federation/Inland Lake Circuit Championship, two-angler teams. Day One at Lake Milton; Day Two at Mosquito Reservoir. For information visit fishowf.com.

June 13-14: 3-D Native American Archery Shoot, Geauga Bowmen Archery, 12575 Sperry Rd. Chesterland. Registration from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Public welcome, youth equipment available. Entry $10, kids $5. For information call Mike Ballash, 440-227-6756, or visitwww.geaugabowmen.com.

June 27: Warm Water Conclave of the Ohio Council of the Federation of Fly Fishers, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., American Legion Pavilion, Clear Fork River, Bellville. Fly fishing seminars, raffles and displays. Admission $5, families $10. Visit ohiofff.org.

June 27: Walleye Madness Tournament, Lake Erie at Geneva State Park Ramp. Two-anglers teams, $150 entry. Visit walleyemadness.net to enter, or call WMT Director Greg Bentz, 440-390-8054.

June 27: FLW Bass Fishing League/Buckeye Division Pro-Am Bass Tournament, Ohio River at Maysville River Park, Maysville, Kentucky. For information visit flwoutdoors.com.

June 27-28: 3-D Archery Shoot at Lake Milton Fish & Game Club, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Open to the public, crossbows permitted. Registration on Saturday (8 a.m.-3 p.m.) and Sunday (8 a.m.-1 p.m.) Adults $10, kids $5. Breakfast 8-10 a.m., lunch after 10 a.m. For information visit lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or contact Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

June 28: The X-Series Bass Tournaments presented by Vic's Sports Center, The Smallmouth Slam, Chautauqua Lake, N.Y. For information visit thex-series.com or call George Byers, 330-559-6454 (evenings).

July 5: Four-Man Team 3-D Archery Shoot, Blind Draw, Lone Eagle Bowmen, 2276 Seeman St. SW (off Battlesburg Rd.) Canton. Registration 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Visit LoneEagleBowmen.com or call Matt Williams (330-575-0744) or Gary Williams (330-484-6535).

July 11: Ohio Walleye Federation Open Tournament, Lake Erie at Geneva. OWF membership not needed. For information visit fishowf.com.

July 11: KSU LaDO Bass Series, LaDue Reservoir. Two-angler teams, electric motors only. Gas boats now permitted. Visit Franks Bass Fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

July 11: FLW College Fishing - Northern Division, Indian Lake at Indian Lake State park, Lakeview, Ohio. For information visit collegefishing.com.

July 11-12: 3-D Archery Cook Out-Shoot Out Shoot, Geauga Bowmen Archery, 12575 Sperry Rd. Chesterland. Registration from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Public welcome, youth equipment available. Entry $10, kids $5. For information call Mike Ballash, 440-227-6756, or visitwww.geaugabowmen.com.

July 18: Northern Open Anglers Association bass tournament trail, Mosquito Reservoir. Two-angler teams. Visit Franks Bass fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

July 18: FLW Bass Fishing League/Buckeye Division Pro-Am Bass Tournament, Ohio River at Tanners Creek Ramp, Lawrenceburg, Indiana. For information visit flwoutdoors.com.

July 19: The X-Series Bass Tournaments presented by Vic's Sports Center, The Rumble on the River, Black River Ramp, Lorain. For information visit thex-series.com or call George Byers, 330-559-6454 (evenings).

July 25: Electric Elite Invitational Bass Tournament, LaDue Reservoir. Two-angler teams. Visit Franks Bass Fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

July 25-26: 3-D Archery Shoot at Lake Milton Fish & Game Club, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Open to the public, crossbows permitted. Registration on Saturday (8 a.m.-3 p.m.) and Sunday (8 a.m.-1 p.m.) Adults $10, kids $5. Breakfast 8-10 a.m., lunch after 10 a.m. For information visit lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or contact Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

Aug. 2: 3-D Archery Shoot, Lone Eagle Bowmen, 2276 Seeman St. SW (off Battlesburg Rd.) Canton. Registration 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Visit LoneEagleBowmen.com or call Matt Williams (330-575-0744) or Gary Williams (330-484-6535).

Aug. 2: Northern Open Anglers Association Super NOAA bass tournament, Chautauqua Lake, N.Y. Two-angler teams. Visit Franks Bass Fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

Aug. 8: Ohio Walleye Cup points tournament, Ohio Walleye Federation, two-angler teams, Lake Erie at Ashtabula. For information visit fishowf.com.

Aug. 8-9: 3-D African Safari Archery Shoot, Geauga Bowmen Archery, 12575 Sperry Rd. Chesterland. Registration from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Public welcome, youth equipment available. Entry $10, kids $5. For information call Mike Ballash, 440-227-6756, or visitwww.geaugabowmen.com.

Aug. 9: The X-Series Bass Tournaments presented by Vic's Sports Center, The Cortland Lake Challenge, state park ramp, Mosquito Reservoir. For information visit thex-series.com or call George Byers, 330-559-6454 (evenings).

Aug. 15: KSU LaDO Bass Series, LaDue Reservoir. Two-angler teams, electric motors only. Gas boats now permitted. Visit Franks Bass Fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

Aug. 15: FLW Bass Fishing League/Buckeye Division Pro-Am Bass Tournament, Ohio River at Maysville River Park, Maysville, Kentucky. For information visit flwoutdoors.com.

Aug. 22: Ohio Walleye Cup points tournament, Ohio Walleye Federation, two-angler teams, Lake Erie at Ashtabula. For information visit fishowf.com.

Aug. 22-23: 3-D Archery Shoot at Lake Milton Fish & Game Club, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Open to the public, crossbows permitted. Registration on Saturday (8 a.m.-3 p.m.) and Sunday (8 a.m.-1 p.m.) Adults $10, kids $5. Breakfast 8-10 a.m., lunch after 10 a.m. For information visit lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or contact Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

Aug. 27-29: Rayovac FLW Series Pro-Am Bass Tournament, Northern Division, Lake Erie at Shelby Street Boat Launch, Sandusky. For information visit flwfishing.com.

Aug. 29: Northern Open Anglers Association bass tournament trail, West Branch Reservoir. Two-angler teams. Visit Franks Bass Fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

Aug. 29-30: 3-D Dog Days Archery Shoot, Geauga Bowmen Archery, 12575 Sperry Rd. Chesterland. Registration from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Public welcome, youth equipment available. Entry $10, kids $5. For information call Mike Ballash, 440-227-6756, or visitwww.geaugabowmen.com.

Aug. 29-30: 3-D Archery Shoot at Lake Milton Fish & Game Club, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Open to the public, crossbows permitted. Registration on Saturday (8 a.m.-3 p.m.) and Sunday (8 a.m.-1 p.m.) Adults $10, kids $5. Breakfast 8-10 a.m., lunch after 10 a.m. For information visit lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or contact Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

Sept. 6: 3-D Archery Shoot, Lone Eagle Bowmen, 2276 Seeman St. SW (off Battlesburg Rd.) Canton. Registration 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Visit LoneEagleBowmen.com or call Matt Williams (330-575-0744) or Gary Williams (330-484-6535).

Sept. 12: KSU LaDO Bass Series, LaDue Reservoir. Two-angler teams, electric motors only. Gas boats now permitted. Visit Franks Bass Fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

Sept. 12-13: 3-D Deer Archery Shoot and Corn Roast, Geauga Bowmen Archery, 12575 Sperry Rd. Chesterland. Registration from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Public welcome, youth equipment available. Entry $10, kids $5. For information call Mike Ballash, 440-227-6756, or visitwww.geaugabowmen.com.

Sept. 19-20: 3-D Archery Shoot at Lake Milton Fish & Game Club, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Open to the public, crossbows permitted. Registration on Saturday (8 a.m.-3 p.m.) and Sunday (8 a.m.-1 p.m.) Adults $10, kids $5. Breakfast 8-10 a.m., lunch after 10 a.m. For information visit lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or contact Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

Sept. 19-20: FLW Bass Fishing League/Buckeye Division Pro-Am Bass Tournament, Indian Lake, Indian Lake State Park, Lakeview. For information visit flwoutdoors.com.

Sept. 19-20: The X-Series Bass Tournaments Championship presented by Vic's Sports Center, The Long Point Shootout, Chautauqua Lake, N.Y. For information visit thex-series.com or call George Byers, 330-559-6454 (evenings).

Sept. 20: Bowhunter Warmup 3-D Archery Shoot, Lone Eagle Bowmen, 2276 Seeman St. SW (off Battlesburg Rd.) Canton. Registration 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Visit LoneEagleBowmen.com or call Matt Williams (330-575-0744) or Gary Williams (330-484-6535).

Sept. 24-26: Bassmaster Northern Open, Lake Erie at Sandusky. Weigh-ins on first two days at Shelby Street Public Boat Launch in Sandusky at 3 p.m. Final-day weigh-in at 4:15 p.m. at Bass Pro Shop, Rossford, Ohio. For information visit the Bass anglers Sportsman Society at bassmaster.com.

Sept. 26: Electric Elite Invitational Bass Tournament, Mogadore Reservoir. Two-angler teams. Visit Franks Bass fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

Sept. 27: KSU LaDO Bass Series Championship, LaDue Reservoir. Visit Franks Bass Fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

Oct. 1-4: Lake and Trails Youth Outdoor Camp hosted by the Lake and Trails Organization, FFA Camp Muskingum, Carrollton. Registration opens July 15. Visit lakeandtrails.org or contact President Karen Metzker, Karen @lakeandtrails.org.

Oct. 11: Electric Elite Invitational Fall Open Bass Tournament, Mogadore Reservoir. Two-angler teams. Visit Franks Bass Fishing Promotions at dobass.com.

Oct. 22-24: Cabela's MWC World Walleye Championship, Masters Walleye Circuit, Huron City Ramp, Huron. For information visit masterswalleyecircuit.com.

2014-2015 HUNTING SEASONS

Coyote and wild boar: No closed season

Groundhog: Closed only during deer gun season.

Cottontail Rabbit: Nov. 7-Feb. 28

Fox, Raccoon: Nov. 10-Jan. 31

Crow: June 6, 2014-March 7, 2015 (Friday, Saturday and Sunday only)

2015-2016 HUNTING SEASONS

(Proposed opening dats)

Mourning Dove: Sept. 1

Squirrel: Sept. 1

Cottontail rabbit, ring-necked pheasant, bobwhite quail: Nov. 7

Fox, raccoon: Nov. 10

Fall wild turkey: Oct. 12-Nov. 29

2014-2015 TRAPPING SEASONS

Mink, Muskrat: Nov. 10-Feb. 28

Lake Erie Marsh (mink, muskrat, skink, raccoon, opossum, weasel): Nov. 10-March 15

Beaver, Otter: Dec. 26-Feb. 28

SPRING 2015 SEASONS

Youth Turkey: April 18-19, 2015

Spring Turkey: April 20-May 17, 2015

SPRING 2016 SEASONS

Youth Turkey: April 16-17, 2016

Spring Turkey: April 18-May 15, 2016

Indigo Shoot celebrates 65 years of trap competition -- Outdoors Notes

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Many of Northeast Ohio's top hands with a shotgun will begin breaking clay targets this weekend in the 65th edition of the Indigo Shoot.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Many of Northeast Ohio's top hands with a shotgun will begin breaking clay targets this weekend in the 65th edition of the Indigo Shoot, an elite string of trap-shooting competitions at a handful of private shotgun ranges.

"I began shooting trap and competing in the Indigo Shoot with my dad, Paul Sr.," said Paul Taylor, who started the Arborwear company in Geauga County. "Dad won it in 1993. I've been runner-up a couple of times, and it's my goal to finally win it some day."

The Indigo Shoot is a 50-target trap competition for members of four exclusive clubs. It will kick off at The Country Club in Pepper Pike and the Youngstown Country Club on Saturday and Sunday. The shoot heads to the Hunting Valley Gun Club in Middlefield on Feb. 28 and Mentor Harbor Yacht Club on March 1.

"All the clubs have some fine shooters, so you'll need your 'A' game to win," said Taylor. "I'm a member of the Hunting Valley Gun Club that has won it the last couple of years, but it should be a real horse race this time around."

The shoot was designed to get people interested in trap shooting, Taylor said, and to break up the long local winters. Photos of long ago shoots show shooters with venerable Winchester Model 12 and Browning Auto 5 shotguns.

"I just talked to Steve Anderson, who shoots at Youngstown Country Club and won the Indigo Shoot last year," said Anderson. "Anderson started shooting six years ago because his club was a part of the Indigo Shoot. He not only became a hard-core trapshooter, but also a very competitive guy who commonly runs 100 straight targets."

S.K. "Scrubby" Wellman created the Indigo Shoot in 1951. Wellman was a member of both the Mentor Harbor Yachting Club and the Hunting Valley Gun Club. "Indigo" was the name of Wellman's sailboat and Wellman was an inventor, sailor, skeet shooter, sportsman and, according to legend, an excellent accordion player.

Out and about: Capt. Joseph Poplstein (440-289-3647) is holding another Captain's License Training Class on March 23 at the Lorain Yacht Club ... The prestigious BASS Master Classic at South Carolina's Greenville and Lake Hartwell plans a late start for this morning's first round because of icy launch ramps ... Coyotes are the name of the game at the 6th annual Maple Country Coyote Open on Thursday through Monday ... Drew Hutzell (330-416-5727) is taking reservations for a Quality Deer Management Seminar on Feb. 28 at the South Cuyahoga Sportsmen's Association in Chatham ... For details on the events, and other activities around the area, check the Outdoor Calendar at cleveland.com/outdoors.

Rugged ice anglers: Defying the odds of a blizzard and holding the event on Valentine's Day, the Cleveland Metroparks Ice Fishing Derby attracted 142 hardy anglers on Saturday, raising $1,613 for the Metroparks Fishing Fund.

Jeremy Dotson was the champ with a 14.84-inch rainbow trout. Dotson was followed by first-time ice angler Leah Nagy (14.06 inch trout), Jon Brauer (13.94 inches) and Danny Butram (13.82 inches).

Catch a silver bullet: Fishermen can get tips on steelhead trout fishing on Thursday at the 8th annual Steelhead Workshop. The stream fishing experts from the Ohio Central Basin Steelheaders will gather at 7 p.m. for the free program at Buffalo Wild Wings, 8465 Pearl Rd., Strongsville. For information, visit ohiosteelheaders.com.

Niles Super Show: Rick and Judi Henninger of Fish and Field Report magazine are hosting more than 150 exhibitors for their 23rd annual Sportsman's Fishing & Hunting Super Show and Sale on March 6-8 at the Eastwood Expo Center. The first 100 kids through the door Saturday and Sunday get fishing reels from the Trumbull County Federation of Sportsmen.

Fishing seminars for crappie, yellow perch and walleye will compliment turkey, duck and deer clinics. Admission is $6 for adults.

Lakewood boys basketball forfeits 2 games due to ineligible player

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Lakewood's boys basketball team forfeited two games due to playing an ineligible player.


LAKEWOOD, Ohio — Lakewood's boys basketball team has forfeited its last two games due to using an ineligible player.


The Rangers' last two games were against Elyria Catholic on Feb. 13, and Westlake on Tuesday. But because the team had an ineligible player, the Rangers had to forfeit those two games and drops to 11-9 overall, 6-7 West Shore Conference.


Lakewood coach Phil Argento said he was made aware of the forfeits on Wednesday.


Messages to Lakewood athletic director Sean Jackson have not been returned.


Lakewood has games against Midview and Elyria to end the regular season before tournament play begins.


Elyria Catholic moved to a tie for first place in the West Shore Conference with Bay as a result of the forfeited game on Feb. 13. The Panthers will play at Rocky River on Friday.


Check back with cleveland.com/hssports for more updates.

On Carlos Carrasco, Ryan Raburn, 8-man bullpens, etc.: Quick hits by Terry Francona

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When Carlos Carrasco pitched his way back into the Indians starting rotation lat year in August, he went 5-3 with a 1.30 ERA in 10 starts. Carrasco's strong finish earned him a spot in this year's rotation.

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- Quick hits from manager Terry Francona's first press conference of spring training.

On curiosity about Carlos Carrasco? "I don't think he really deserves for us to be curious. I think last year we were curious. I think the way he pitched, he deserves for us to be all in.

"I mean how many times did we say over the last couple of years, 'We have to be patient.' Look what happened. That's why you're patient. The second half of last year he might have been the best pitcher in baseball except for (Corey) Kluber."

In his last 10 starts of the season, Carrasco went 5-3 with a 1.30 ERA.

"I think what happened is that for the last two years he wanted so bad for us to tell him he's a starter," said Francona. "Then he went out and earned it ... and that's a much better way."

On right-hander Gavin Floyd: "(Pitching coach) Mickey Callaway has seen two of his bullpens and says the ball is coming out of his hand really well. We'll keep an eye on him. We'll probably ease him and some of these other guys into it with an extra side day, a B game or a simulated game.

"We'll reserve the right to do whatever we think is in all their best interest. But he's looked really good."

Floyd signed a one-year, $4 million deal with the Indians. He's coming off two straight seasons of right elbow injuries.

On outfielder Ryan Raburn: "I'm so proud of him. He ought to be proud of himself. He's done a great job getting ready for the season."

Raburn had left knee surgery in late September to end a frustrating 2014. He's signed through 2015, but his job could be in danger.

"He's a veteran guy who always got ready for spring training the way he got ready," said Francona. "This year he didn't have a choice. Man, he looks great."

On second baseman Jason Kipnis trying to rebound: "Last year Kipnis told me numerous times ... he wants to be a good player on a good team. I think he found out the hard way when he's not playing too well, he's not happy.

"I think he's a really good player. He can be an offensive force.

"Defensively, he's an outfielder who is a good enough athlete to move into second base. He might not be picture perfect, but he's athletic enough where he can make all the plays."

Could the Indians open the season with an eight-man bullpen? "I'm not dead set against the eight-man bullpen. I'd actually like to have nine.

"It actually depends on how your team is built. The majority of the time last year I felt it was our best chance at winning."

Ice fishing on Lake Erie, around northern Ohio luring army of anglers -- Fishing Report for Feb. 20

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Jumbo Lake Erie walleye are stealing the spotlight again as this week's Arctic blast continues to make thick ice for anglers.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - If ice fishing isn't your game, you're out of luck in northern Ohio. If you are an ice angler, enjoy the season for the second straight year. The fishing is outstanding on all of the local ponds and lakes, although the steelhead streams are locked in most places by a solid cover of ice.

Western Lake Erie continues to shine, and there has been a noticeable expansion of the solid ice needed for anglers and their all-terrain vehicles and snowmobiles. Walleye anglers are roaming from West Sister Island to Catawba Island, and all around the Bass Islands. The ice cover has been reported as thick as 18 inches, but anglers must always be wary of cracks in the ice and white out conditions during snowstorms.

LAKE ERIE

The walleye are biting all around Western Lake Erie, and while the catches are not as consistent as a year ago on the big waters, they're still pretty darned good. The best fishing has been at the crack of dawn and the last couple of hours of daylight.

Fishermen have been heading out from Catawba Island State Park and from Camp Perry, the Ohio National Guard facility west of Port Clinton. If you don't arrive early, especially on the weekends, you'll be out of luck. The parking lot at Catawba fills quickly and is often jam-packed at 6 a.m. Camp Perry closes the gate on new arrivals at 7 a.m.

The ice has thickened further west, with fishermen now heading out from Metzger Marsh, Magee Marsh and Crane Creek areas. Most anglers are heading four to six miles offshore, and sometimes more, to fish around West Sister Island and the ice triangle created by Green, Rattlesnake and South Bass islands.

Finesse fishing has been the key for walleye anglers of late, downsizing spoons and jigging lures. Silver-green, gold-green and blue-silver lure colors have been best. While some anglers have found success with three minnows on the treble hook of a fat Little Cleo spoon, finesse anglers are using just minnow heads on their lures. Check Lake Erie shoreline bait shops for the availability of emerald shiner minnows before you go.

Bluegills are biting in East Harbor and West Harbor, and around the marinas closer to Cleveland, including the lower Rocky River and Spitzer Marina in Lorain.

INLAND PONDS, LAKES, RESERVOIRS

The hot spot for stocked rainbow trout is still Wallace Lake in Berea, followed by Ledge and Shadow lakes in the Cleveland Metroparks. Tiny ice jigs tipped with maggots, waxworms or PowerBait are still top choices. Surprisingly, a few largemouth bass are being caught on trout offerings at Wallace Lake.

Some fishermen are cutting holes in the river ice to catch steelhead trout on jig-maggot rigs and spawn bags. A popular spot has been the Emerald Necklace Marina on the Rocky River.

Mosquito Reservoir reports have been promising, with some walleye caught in deeper waters around the southern end of the lake. Crappies are suspended in deeper water, while bluegills are biting closer to shore, including the state park marina area on the south end.

Bluegill, yellow perch and crappie are being caught from Wingfoot Lake. Lots of small panfish are being caught around the Portage Lakes, with Turkeyfoot and Mud lakes and the channels off Turkeyfoot Lake getting the best reviews.

There have been good reports of crappie success at Wellington, Oberlin, New London and Norwalk reservoirs.

DOG TRIAL RESULTS

The All-Breed Hunter's Trial at the South Cuyahoga Sportsman's Association in Chatham Township on Sunday was canceled because of the weather.

Gilmour volleyball taps Dan Coughlin as next head coach

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Danny Coughlin was the former coach at Kenston.

GATES MILLS, Ohio – Less than a week after former Gilmour head coach Kelly Coughlin resigned, the Lancers have found a new head coach.

Coughlin's brother, Dan Coughlin, will be taking over the position.


Coughlin was formerly at Kenston, where he took the Bombers to the Division I state semifinals, but stepped down due to time constraintsCoughlin is a paramedic-firefighter and at the time, had taken a third job at MetroHealth Medical Center. 


"I am extremely pleased to have Danny take over the Lancer volleyball program," Gilmour athletic director Jeff Walrich said in a statement Thursday. "He has had great success at Kenston and was a valuable member of the staff who reached the championship game this year. He is excited to get started and I know the program will be in great hands moving forward."


This announcement comes after Friday's report that Coughlin would be stepping down to spend more time with his daughters, Brunswick volleyball players Makenzie and Kayla, a junior and a freshman, respectively.


"I've graduated 25 sets of seniors in girls volleyball and six sets in boys volleyball," Coughlin told the Northeast Ohio Media Group on Friday. "Now it's time to graduate my daughters. I don't want to miss any of their matches."



Gilmour ended the season at 26-3 and collected sectional, district and region championships en route to a second consecutive finish as state runner-up, falling to Huron 3-1


The Lancers have a solid group of starters returning next season, despite losing seniors Laura Brzozowski and Megan Polak. Polak became one of three players in Ohio history to reach a career milestone of at least 3,000 assists and set school records for total career assists and assists in one match (57).


Junior Alexa Turk, a first-team All-Ohio selection and a member of the cleveland.com volleyball All-Star team returns next season. Turk ranked 7th in the state in kills, with 474 as a junior. Turk also recorded 440 digs and a .487 hitting percentage for the season.


Coughlin finished with a record of 118-24 after five seasons with the Lancers.



Follow our new high school sports Twitter account @NEOVarsity and tag your related Tweets and score updates with the #NEOvarsity hashtag.


Contact high school sports producer Cameron Moon by email (cmoon@cleveland.com) or Twitter (@MoonCameron20). Or log in and leave a message in the comments section below.

Vikings coach pleased with Teddy Bridgewater choice, credits ex-Cleveland Browns assistant for successful QB search

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Vikings coach singles out the work of ex-Browns assistants Norv and Scott Turner for settling on Bridgewater in the draft. Watch video

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana - General manager Rick Spielman and the Vikings trusted the tape when it came to Teddy Bridgewater a year ago.

They also placed lots of faith in a pair of former Browns assistants who had been released only months prior to the 2014 NFL Draft.

Vikings coach Mike Zimmer said Thursday that former Browns offensive coordinator Norv Turner and receivers coach Scott Turner were important in helping the club zero in on Bridgewater during their quarterback search. The Vikings (7-9) selected the Louisville product with the No. 32 overall pick.

Norv and Scott Turner serve Minnesota as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, respectively. They had worked under former Browns coach Rob Chudzinski the previous season before he was fired.

"You know we worked so hard in trying to find a quarterback," said Zimmer, the Bengals former defensive coordinator. "And Norv Turner and Scott and those guys did a great job and not only Rick (Spielman) but all the scouts."

It's believed Browns general manager Ray Farmer had serious interest in taking Bridgewater, but ultimately traded up to No. 22 to select Johnny Manziel. Since last year's draft, coach Mike Pettine, has said Manziel was the top quarterback on the Browns draft board.

Bridgewater completed 64.4 percent of his attempts - third highest in NFL history for a rookie making at least 10 starts - and earned an 85.2 passer rating in 13 games. Meanwhile, Manziel endured a dreadful rookie season, making just two starts and recently checking himself into rehab.

Under former team CEO Joe Banner, the Browns had commissioned a $100,000 analytical study to determine the best quarterback in the draft. The results favored Bridgewater. The Vikings quarterback has said he did not want to play for the Browns and sources recently told cleveland.com it's because he knew some in the organization weren't in favor of drafting him.

The Vikings had a consensus opinion on Bridgewater and they weren't scared off by a poor pro-day showing, which contributed to his draft stock plummeting.

"We spent six different occasions with Teddy last year," Spielman said. "One thing we try to do with our process is we had our draft meetings before we came down here and graded them purely what we saw on tape and what we saw live as football players.

"All of the other stuff we accumulate here and over the next couple of months we'll add into it but it's not something where you see a guy go from the sixth or seventh round goes all the way up to the first round because the way he runs in shorts . . . And just because a guy has a bad pro day we're not going to forget the 47 games he was productive on tape."

While the Browns are back at the combine looking for a quarterback, Minnesota is excited to be heading into the second year of the Bridgewater era.

Zimmer sent Bridgewater a congratulatory text after the quarterback won the Pepsi Rookie of the Year award.  "I (wrote), 'Hey, Teddy, congratulations . . . now let's go win a championship unless you just want to be a celebrity quarterback. He texted me back and he said, 'Thanks coach . . . I've never been about individual awards. All I care about is winning as a team and getting better every day and that's all I want to do.''

Cleveland Browns have their eyes on Ohio State WR Devin Smith (video)

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Ohio State's Devin Smith is enjoying the process to become an NFL receiver. Watch video

INDIANAPOLIS -- Devin Smith possesses one of the best attributes for a wide receiver, but he may have more to prove than many of his contemporaries in preparation of the 2015 NFL Draft.

Smith is one of the fastest players invited to the 2015 NFL combine. Smith, who plans to run a low 4.3 or 4.4 40 this weekend, built a reputation at Ohio State as a player so quick that if a team dared to cover him man to man, the cornerback was forced to line up across from him at least five yards deep.

It often didn't matter.

Smith averaged 28.2 yards per catch last season. He made 33 catches for 931 yards and four touchdowns.

Those numbers, along with a solid week during the Senior Bowl, makes Smith a prime first-round candidate in the draft. But questions remain about his ability to catch passes across the middle or in the flat.

In other words, is he only comfortable on go and post routes?

"I have to show everyone that I can run all of the routes," Smith said. "I ran all of the routes in college. The offense we were in, we were pretty good at going deep, so we did that a lot. It's just a matter of me showing everyone."

Smith was more than just a speed guy in several games this past season, especially in some big games against Michigan State and in the Big Ten Championship against Wisconsin. He ran several different routes and caught six passes for 129 yards and a TD against Michigan State. Smith had four catches for 137 yards and three TDs in that blowout victory over Wisconsin.

Not only did Smith utilize his speed but he filled the highlight reels with outstanding jumping ability on display. The former Ohio high school state champion brought his track and field prowess to the football field.

"That's just pure concentration [on leaping catches]," Smith said. "It's the small details. You just make sure your steps are right with the high jump and carry it over to the football field. It's pure concentration, and make sure your eyes follow the ball."

The Cleveland Browns have their eyes on Smith. He met with the brass during the Senior Bowl and this week at the NFL Combine. Smith's reputation grew during the Senior Bowl. His stock has risen.

"I'm hoping I go in the first round, but to be in this position, being at the combine and getting your named picked is all a blessing to me," Smith said. "So wherever I get picked in whatever round, I'll make the best of it."

Participating in the Senior Bowl was not only a great experience for Smith during the game, but the competitive level of the practices was even more beneficial. He spent hours going head-to-head against some of the best college cornerbacks in the country.

"It helped a lot, especially going against guys with different talents," Smith said. "It makes you work a little harder and makes you try different things that may not work or may work against different defenses."

The Browns desperately need a go-to receiver because of Josh Gordon most recent suspension. The Browns have 10 selections in the draft and with two picks in the first round (No. 12 and 19), that means the Browns could fill a gaping hole with Smith.

"Teams need guys that can go and get it and I have that ability," said Smith, an Akron native who played his high school ball in Massillon. "I've shown that plenty of times in college. I'm just going to translate that to the next level."

The next level for Smith could also mean a position on special teams. OSU coach Urban Meyer is not afraid to use starters on special teams. He utilized Smith's speed as a gunner. Smith could fill that role in the NFL.

"I'm a guy that can run and is willing to learn," Smith said. "I'm a guy who'll do whatever he can to help my team win, on offense or on special teams."

Live game video Saturday: No. 1 St. Vincent-St. Mary vs. No. 2 Villa Angela-St. Joseph boys basketball on cleveland.com

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Go to cleveland.com on Saturday at 7:15 p.m. to watch live video of sold out No. 1 St. Vincent-St. Mary vs. No. 2 Villa Angela-St. Joseph boys basketball game.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Watch a live video broadcast on cleveland.com of Saturday’s sold out boys basketball game between national Top 10 powers St. Vincent-St. Mary and Villa Angela-St. Joseph.

The video stream from VASJ will start around 7:15 p.m. with a short pregame show. (Exact time depends on what time the JV game ends). The varsity game is slated to start at 7:30 p.m.


You can watch the game live on cleveland.com with the broadcast team of Dan Labbe, Mark Kern and David Petkiewicz.


If you can’t watch the game live, there will be an archived video of the game online later.


The nonleague game features two teams ranked in the Top 10 in the nation, as well as Nos. 1-2 in the cleveland.com Top 25.


SVSM (19-0) is ranked third in the country in the MaxPreps Xcellent 25, while VASJ (17-2) is slotted at No. 9.


St. Vincent-St. Mary is ranked No. 1 by cleveland.com and VASJ is No. 2.


Future college players fans may be interested in watching are:


Villa Angela-St. Joseph’s Carlton Bragg (Kansas), Dererk Pardon (Northwestern) and Brian Parker (Marist), as well as St. Vincent-St. Mary’s Jibri Blount (Cleveland State) and Josh Williams (Akron).


You can also come back to this story and watch the live video in this player below on Saturday night:



Live streaming video by Ustream

Albert Belle talks Corey Kluber, dance and Cinderella on visit to Cleveland Indians

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Former Indians home-run hitter Albert Belle stopped by the team's spring training site in Goodyear, Ariz. on Thursday to see some old friends. He's still not sure if he'll be able to attend the Indians celebration of the 20th anniversary of the 1995 team that Belle led to the World Series.

GOODYEAR, Ariz. - The right-handed power hitter that the Indians need for the upcoming season walked through the front door of their Goodyear spring training complex Thursday morning. One problem - he was about 20 years too late.

Albert Belle, at one time the most feared slugger in the most feared lineup in the American League, made the drive from his home in Paradise Valley to see some old friends. Belle's teammates from the great Indians teams of the 1990s have long since retired, but he still knew plenty of people with the team.

Belle spent a lot of time talking the clubhouse staff - Tony Amato, Marty Bokovitz and Frank Mancini. Mike Seghi, the veteran director of team travel, stopped by to say hello. Ditto for Bart Swain, director of media relations.

Old teammates Sandy Alomar and Charles Nagy were on hand to chat as well. Alomar is the Indians first base coach. Nagy is a special assistant to baseball operations. Nagy and Belle played golf on Wednesday.

The last time Belle, 48, visited the Indians in spring training was 2012.

"I just wanted to see some of the guys," Belle told reporters.

Asked what he's been doing, Belle said, "Soccer and dance."

Belle has three young daughters.

"I tell them to use their elbows in soccer when somebody gets close to them," said Belle. "No, I don't get mad. You can't get through a soccer game without somebody crying."

Belle, who led the Indians to their first World Series appearance in 41 years in 1995, watches a lot of baseball on TV. That includes the Indians.

"I kind of watch whatever games are on," said Belle. "Otherwise, I'm watching Disney. Now, they've got the new Cinderella coming out."

Belle gave his scouting report on the Tribe, "Well, Corey Kluber should win 20 games. There are four or five question marks after that. There are a lot of question marks. The guy that closed last year, Cody Allen, I like him. I like Nick Hagadone, too. The bullpen was pretty decent."

The Indians are honoring the 20th anniversary of the 1995 Indians on June 19 and June 20 at Progressive Field. Former players have been invited to attend the ceremonies, but Belle isn't sure he'll be able to make it.

"I've got to look and see when all that stuff is," said Belle.

Belle, known as much for his temper as his power during his playing days, hit .317 with 52 doubles, 50 homers and 126 RBI in 1995. He is the only player in history to hit 50 doubles and 50 homers in the same season.

Told it wouldn't be a proper celebration of the 1995 Indians without him, Belle said, "I was just one of many characters on that team. Has anyone located Manny (Ramirez) yet?"

Belle, who career was cut short by a hip injury, finished his career with 381 homers. He hit 242 of them with the Indians.

Can starting rotation excel for full season? Cleveland Indians key questions for 2015: No.1

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For the Indians to suceed in 2015, they need the starting rotation to pitch well over the course of the whole season.

GOODYEAR, Ariz. --Indians pitchers and catchers reported to Goodyear, Ariz., on Wednesday for the start of spring training. Like every team headed for Arizona or Florida, the Indians brought questions with them.

We've addressed the top nine questions, now all that's left is the most important question of the spring.

No.1: Is the starting rotation as good as it looked last year after the All-Star break?

It would be hard for the rotation to be as good as they were after the All-Star break and that's not a knock. It's just being realistic.

Here's what the Tribe starters did over the last 68 games in 2014:

Corey Kluber: 9-3, 1.73, 14 starts, 104 innings, 127 strikeouts, 19 walks.

Carlos Carrasco: 5-3, 1.30, 10 starts, 69 innings, 78 strikeouts, one walk.

T.J. House: 4-1, 2.53, 10 starts, 57 innings, 50 strikeouts, 11 walks.

Trevor Bauer: 2-4, 4.48, 14 starts, 80 1/3 innings, 73 strikeouts, 33 walks.

Danny Salazar: 5-4, 3.50, 12 starts, 69 1/3 innings, 73 strikeouts, 18 walks.

Zach McAllister: 0-2, 5.30 ERA, four starts, 18.2 innings, 15 strikeouts, five walks.

Josh Tomlin: 0-2, 5.59 ERA, four starts, 19.2 innings, 17 strikeouts, four walks.

In the second half, the rotation posted a 2.95 ERA, the second lowest ERA in the big leagues next to the Washington's 2.74. The work of the rotation, along with a strong bullpen, allowed the Indians to go 38-30 after the All-Star break despite an offense that averaged 3.7 runs per game.

So can the rotation stretch that level of proficiency across a full season? As Cy Young winner Kluber reminded everyone in January at TribeFest, "We play a full season, not a half season."

The Indians have added veteran starters Gavin Floyd and Bruce Chen to the spring-training mix. If Floyd is healthy - his last two seasons have been interrupted by serious right elbow injuries - he's been guaranteed a spot in the rotation along with Kluber, Bauer and Carrasco.

All of which will bring intensity to the competition for the fifth spot among Salazar, Tomlin, House, McAllister and Chen.

Kluber showed he could handle a full big-league season last year as he made 34 starts and pitched 235 2/3 innings. Carrasco has never spent a full season in a big-league rotation. Bauer made 26 starts last year and pitched 199 innings including his time at Class AAA Columbus. Floyd took a regular turn in the White Sox's rotation from 2008 through 2012, but has made just 14 starts in the last two years.

Regarding the fifth spot in the rotation, Chen is the only candidate who has made 30 plus starts in a season. Salazar made 20 starts last year, while House made 18. Tomlin made 26 starts for the Tribe in 2011 and 16 last year. McAllister made 24 starts in 2014 and 11 last year.

A lot of good things have been written and said this offseason about the Indians rotation based on what they did in the second half of last season.

"We don't have a lot of age on that staff," said manager Terry Francona. "We have some guys who are learning how to pitch on a pretty high level early in their careers. In our industry, not just with the Indians, that's really valued.

"The flip side of that is we need to see these guys do it year after year, but the only reason they haven't is because they haven't been exposed to it. We're kind of looking forward to it."

Here are the first nine questions:

No. 3: What about the defense?

No. 4: Can the bullpen carry the weight?

No. 5: Who is going to start in right field?

No. 6: How many injured Indians will bounce back?

No.7: Where will manager Terry Francona bat Yan Gomes?

No. 8: Do Indians need Michael Brantley to have another MVP-type season?

No.9: When will prospect Francisco Lindor make his big league debut?

No. 10: Does Corey Kluber need to repeat Cy-Young winning season for the Indians to contend?

Jibri Blount in pictures: Action, feature photos of St. Vincent-St. Mary senior, Akron basketball recruit

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Check out action and feature photos of St. Vincent-St. Mary senior Jibri Blount.

AKRON, Ohio -- St. Vincent-St. Mary senior forward Jibri Blount decided last September he would commit to Cleveland State to play basketball for the Vikings.

The 6-foot-6 senior is averaging 10.3 points per game and 8.5 rebounds while shooting 61 percent from the floor for the undefeated Irish.


But it is Blount's leadership that appealed to Cleveland State coaches during his recruiting process.


"They like the fact that I play hard and that I'm a good teammate," Blount said. "If I'm down, I don't let the rest of my team get down."


Blount came to St. Vincent-St. Mary as a junior after transferring from Linsly, a high school in West Virginia. This season, he has taken on more of a leadership role after the graduation of Jalen Hudson and transfer of VJ King -- the team's two leading scorers last season.


"That's something that I've prepared myself mentally and physically for since they left," Blount said.


Watch a live video broadcast on cleveland.com of Saturday’s sold out boys basketball game between national Top 10 powers St. Vincent-St. Mary and Villa Angela-St. Joseph.


Throughout the remainder of the season, keep an eye out for more special cleveland.com player action/photo galleries featuring some of Northeast Ohio's top high school basketball stars.


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