When you think of legendary athletes born here in Texas there are a few names that may come to mind. Babe Didrikson Zaharias...wait...who? Sorry, I saw a documentary on her one time and she had some legendary accomplishments including winning two gold medals in the 1932 Olympics. She then went on to win 31 Professional Golf titles. Very impressive! Ok I'll mention some a little more obvious like Nolan Ryan and Earl Campbell. Ryan threw 7 no hitters and amassed 5,714 strikeouts in 27 seasons. That in and of itself is amazing! Campbell affectionately known as "The Tyler Rose" won the Heisman Trophy in 1977 while wearing the Burnt Orange for the University of Texas. Campbell then went on to lead the NFL in rushing 3 times with the Houston Oilers and twice was named the NFL MVP.
If you have played cornhole the past few years with The Texas Cornhole League, you undoubtedly are aware of the legendary Daniel Vinson. Daniel has quite the impressive resume with TCL winning a State Title in Singles, Doubles and being the Player of the Year. Only one other player has matched that feat in the Open Division and that is Brandon Gregor, a TCL Legend as well. Vinson started his cornhole career at a tournament at O'Sheas and basically hit the floor running. In his very first time to play, O'Sheas had a bonus for making a Big Tex and maybe that bucket of beers was just the motivation Vinson needed! Daniel indeed won a bucket or two and the rest is history as he has been draining 12's ever since.
Before Vinson took up cornhole, he was an accomplished Horseshoe player being ranked as high as 3rd in the state. Daniel pitched shoes for about 15-20 years before changing his arsenal to bags. The 44 year old Kaufman resident has been playing for about 7 years and says one of his favorite memories was playing in his first Ryder Cup. Vinson who was a fairly new player at this time, hit a huge Big Tex to win a critical game to help his team grab second place behind a tough Roanoke squad. The first Ryder Cup that I attended Daniel was on the East Dallas team that won that event and would also add another Cup win this past January.
One of the things that Daniel said he had to overcome early on was his ability to throw airmails with confidence. In watching Vinson the past few years I've noticed he is very methodical in his approach and strategy. He will rarely rush a meaningful shot as he puts a lot of thought and analysis into his process. A calm looking player during the game Daniel doesn't often show emotion but don't let that fool you. He is super competitive and will throw out an occasional fist pump.
Like many of us, Daniel enjoys the camaraderie and hanging with friends during and away from events. He is a fun loving guy that is well liked and respected by his peers. I've seen him helping new players many times including myself when I was a new player. That's just how he is and TCL is very fortunate to have him around.
Best of luck to you Daniel as you continue to etch your name in the TCL history books as a true legend.
Sunday, August 4, 2019
Thursday, July 18, 2019
Player Spotlight - Stuart Foster
I've been trying to remember the first time I saw or met Stuart Foster and I really can't nail down the exact moment. I'm pretty sure I heard him at my first Signature Event in Mesquite back in late Summer or early Fall of 2015 and I suppose my very first time to actually be around him was that same year when I joined the Forney League at the River Club. I eventually got to know him and man, what a player. Foster, who doesn't lack confidence is one of the top players in TCL and somewhat jokingly proclaims himself as "Number 1 in the world". Stuart is a fun loving guy when off the boards and when playing he would step on your throat in a heartbeat, demonstrating a massive competitive spirit. A year or so ago several of us went to Las Vegas to play in one of the ACL National Events and all he did was walk through several really good players to make the Main Stage for a live feed. He was smack dab in the middle of his element as Foster lives for the big moments and thrives on playing against top players. Speaking of top players, did I mention that Foster finished this most recent season as TCL's Player of the Year, a feat he has pulled off 2 previous seasons. Next time you see him just call him "Three Time"!
The 42 year old has been playing for 7 years and the fact that he has won Player of the Year 3 of those 7 seasons is pretty awesome. Stuart told me recently that initially the hardest thing for him to overcome playing cornhole was the slide shot. I was a little confused and then he told me he used to throw only airmails which explains how he can be pretty deadly with his airmail game. He added that the Las Vegas experience making it to the Main Stage was probably his favorite cornhole memory. At this event he had been throwing TCL 450's throughout the tournament and had to change when he made the broadcast because both sides weren't the same color. I'm not saying he would've won his match against Ryan Windsor if he had those 450's but I would've loved to have seen him use them.
The Forney, Tx resident says he'd like to improve on his ability to maintain his focus and deal with fatigue better when making late runs in tournaments. I'm not so sure I would want to be someone who has to deal with the wrath of a focused Stuart Foster as he can get hot and when he does, look out. His spirited and animated displays of enthusiasm are sometimes fun to watch. A healthy Foster fist pump after a great shot is a fairly common occurrence when he gets fired up.
Congratulations Stuart on a great season.
Until next time, y'all throw 'em straight!
The 42 year old has been playing for 7 years and the fact that he has won Player of the Year 3 of those 7 seasons is pretty awesome. Stuart told me recently that initially the hardest thing for him to overcome playing cornhole was the slide shot. I was a little confused and then he told me he used to throw only airmails which explains how he can be pretty deadly with his airmail game. He added that the Las Vegas experience making it to the Main Stage was probably his favorite cornhole memory. At this event he had been throwing TCL 450's throughout the tournament and had to change when he made the broadcast because both sides weren't the same color. I'm not saying he would've won his match against Ryan Windsor if he had those 450's but I would've loved to have seen him use them.
The Forney, Tx resident says he'd like to improve on his ability to maintain his focus and deal with fatigue better when making late runs in tournaments. I'm not so sure I would want to be someone who has to deal with the wrath of a focused Stuart Foster as he can get hot and when he does, look out. His spirited and animated displays of enthusiasm are sometimes fun to watch. A healthy Foster fist pump after a great shot is a fairly common occurrence when he gets fired up.
Congratulations Stuart on a great season.
Until next time, y'all throw 'em straight!
Tuesday, July 16, 2019
Player Spotlight - Eddie Grinderslev
When I first started playing in Texas Cornhole League events, I soon became familiar with who the top players were. Mostly by having them crush me but nevertheless, I was finding out who they were. One of the top players that I met was a slender young guy named Eddie Grinderslev. A few years ago, before each Texas Cornhole League Signature Event everyone had to throw a SCR which included 13 rounds of 4 bags. I got a glimpse of Eddie's score sheet and I was blown away. He had no rounds of less than a 10 and at that point I knew this guy was special.
The 28 year old Grinderslev grew up in Lexington, TX, a small town of around 1200 people just about 50 miles northeast of Austin. One of Lexington's claims to fame could be Snow's BBQ which was tabbed as the best BBQ in Texas by Texas Monthly. After the season that Eddie recently had, I would have to say he could be the most well known person from Lexington! This past season Eddie was named ACL's mid season Rookie of the Year and finished it off as the number 1 ranked ACL player in the nation. That's kind of a Big Deal folks considering he beat out many ACL blue bloods like Cody Henderson, James Baldwin, Frank Modlin and hotshot young guns like Noah Wooten, Matthew Sorrells and fellow Texas Stud Josh Groce.
The Hutto, Tx resident is a 3 time Texas Cornhole League State Singles Champion and says his favorite memory is winning his first title which allowed him to get "over the hump" which he added wasn't easy! By watching him play I can't help but notice how easy he makes it look!
Eddie not only is a superior cornhole player but a top notch person as well. The first time I approached him he was very courteous and took the time to visit with me briefly. The soft spoken Texan is a fierce competitor but off the boards he is as nice as they come. I can't think of anything negative to say about him and I doubt I know anyone who could either.
Congratulations Eddie, you've made Texas and all of us players associated with TCL very proud of you. Best of luck to you Champ as you continue your career!
The 28 year old Grinderslev grew up in Lexington, TX, a small town of around 1200 people just about 50 miles northeast of Austin. One of Lexington's claims to fame could be Snow's BBQ which was tabbed as the best BBQ in Texas by Texas Monthly. After the season that Eddie recently had, I would have to say he could be the most well known person from Lexington! This past season Eddie was named ACL's mid season Rookie of the Year and finished it off as the number 1 ranked ACL player in the nation. That's kind of a Big Deal folks considering he beat out many ACL blue bloods like Cody Henderson, James Baldwin, Frank Modlin and hotshot young guns like Noah Wooten, Matthew Sorrells and fellow Texas Stud Josh Groce.
The Hutto, Tx resident is a 3 time Texas Cornhole League State Singles Champion and says his favorite memory is winning his first title which allowed him to get "over the hump" which he added wasn't easy! By watching him play I can't help but notice how easy he makes it look!
Eddie not only is a superior cornhole player but a top notch person as well. The first time I approached him he was very courteous and took the time to visit with me briefly. The soft spoken Texan is a fierce competitor but off the boards he is as nice as they come. I can't think of anything negative to say about him and I doubt I know anyone who could either.
Congratulations Eddie, you've made Texas and all of us players associated with TCL very proud of you. Best of luck to you Champ as you continue your career!
Sunday, July 14, 2019
2019 TCL Conference Tourney Observations
By now most of us have gathered our senses and caught up on some rest from the Texas Cornhole League's 9th Conference Tournament held recently in Abilene, TX. I am not so sure I can put my old self in that category as I still have lingering issues...I call it my "Cornhole Coma"! There is so much to talk about with this event I'm not so sure I know where I want to begin. I suppose I can start with Friday which had the Singles Events as well as the Women's Doubles. One thing I've noticed the past year or so is just how good everyone has become. Men, Women, it doesn't matter, everyone can flat out play it seems. If you don't throw well, there is a good chance you will be looking for your keys so you can make your way to your truck! In the Open Singles there were some early round upsets including Stuart Foster losing his 3rd round match and John Watson scoring a big 2nd round win over Johnny Seymour. In the Social Singles Chase Jackson the number 1 seed lost his 2nd round match to Sean Weatherford and Phillip Richardson the number 2 seed also lost his 2nd round match. In the Senior Singles the top 4 seeds made it to the winners bracket semis but maybe the most impressive performance may have been the run Dean Parker made. After losing his first round match to Johnny Seymour, Parker made a bag change and proceeded to win 6 straight loser bracket games to reach the finals. Christina Espinosa again won the Women's title beating Debra Odum who threw very well losing only to Espinosa. A couple of other ladies had very good runs as well including Amy Valdez and Leeann Hartline. Valdez in her first state tourney lost in the 3rd round to Debra Odum then won 4 elimination games before losing to Odum in a game that would have put her in the finals had she won. Hartline also lost to Odum early in the winners side then won 5 in a row before losing to Valdez. This was Friday folks!
Saturday was..well, Saturday. I arrived at the venue early to find the parking lot fairly full and I thought it was odd that this many players would be there this early. I soon found out that there were several...I mean several people already dressed in Renaissance type garb and others were getting dressed either in they're vehicles or putting on the final parts of their costumes outside their cars. As I walked towards the front door I saw many others in full blown musketeer outfits and medieval dresses. For a moment I thought I may have been in the wrong building but I eventually made my way to the tournament, without having any run ins with any wooden sword toting dudes or having any Knights wanting me to joust!
Saturday was mostly filled with Doubles Events along with some drop down Singles Events and ending with all the Championship matches. Mark Rubio and Eli Gonzalez had the most impressive run finishing second to Josh Groce and A J Sims in the Open Doubles. They took out several really good teams including Stuart Foster and Joe Arrington, Eddie Grinderslev and Kenneth Johnston and a hot throwing duo of Peyton Welch and Tristan Janca. In the Social Doubles Brittney Arrington and Toni Cranford made it to the winners bracket semi finals before losing to Ernest Monarca and Mitch Ryan. I'd say this would be the best finish for Arrington and Cranford in a TCL Signature Event. In the Open Singles Josh Groce beat Todd Bridgeman to get the win after losing to Bridgeman on Friday. These performances were what I'd say were the top highlights from the weekend.
Abeline provided us with many exciting moments and was once again a great host. I personally enjoyed my weekend getting to see many friends from all across the state and meeting new players as well. This was the end of the 9th TCL season and man it was a good one! Lots of new players stepping up and competing as well as all the top players who continue to get better. Have a good summer everyone and I look forward to seeing you all again soon at the next event!
Throw 'em straight y'all!
Saturday was mostly filled with Doubles Events along with some drop down Singles Events and ending with all the Championship matches. Mark Rubio and Eli Gonzalez had the most impressive run finishing second to Josh Groce and A J Sims in the Open Doubles. They took out several really good teams including Stuart Foster and Joe Arrington, Eddie Grinderslev and Kenneth Johnston and a hot throwing duo of Peyton Welch and Tristan Janca. In the Social Doubles Brittney Arrington and Toni Cranford made it to the winners bracket semi finals before losing to Ernest Monarca and Mitch Ryan. I'd say this would be the best finish for Arrington and Cranford in a TCL Signature Event. In the Open Singles Josh Groce beat Todd Bridgeman to get the win after losing to Bridgeman on Friday. These performances were what I'd say were the top highlights from the weekend.
Abeline provided us with many exciting moments and was once again a great host. I personally enjoyed my weekend getting to see many friends from all across the state and meeting new players as well. This was the end of the 9th TCL season and man it was a good one! Lots of new players stepping up and competing as well as all the top players who continue to get better. Have a good summer everyone and I look forward to seeing you all again soon at the next event!
Throw 'em straight y'all!
Sunday, June 16, 2019
State Championships
Sometimes when I write I like to start out with something informative, clever or maybe even nostalgic. I really just want it to be entertaining and interesting in hopes of having people read more than just the first paragraph! As you can tell by the title of this blog, I'm writing about State Championships. With the Texas Cornhole League's State Tournament in Abilene looming this week, I figure it would be fitting to write about some of my past State Tournament experiences, including my first TCL State Tournament.
Many of you know that for the past few years I've been a regular in the Texas Cornhole scene. I love the game, competing and maybe more than anything, seeing the group of friends that this game has introduced me to. The game provides me with the ability to satisfy my competitive urges that I have in my blood! I've been playing organized sports for around 50 years...yep, I'm not a spring chicken! I started out with little league baseball and was fortunate to be a part of a really good team that included a friend that I still talk with a few times a month. He and I played many various sports together including our first Championship team, a Shreveport City Basketball title in basketball as 6th graders at Atkins Elementary. I scored 1 point all season...and it didn't even count as my foot crossed the line on a free throw. We had a couple of real tall guys, Jimmy Blackwell and Keith Grant and some guys that could handle and shoot the ball well making our team very strong. I got to play late after those guys had built up big leads...mop up duty or whatever you want to call it, I didn't care, I was on the team and we were good!
I went to Woodlawn High School which had a tremendous athletic tradition. In the 60's Terry Bradshaw led the Knights to the State title game losing to Sulphur and couple of years later Joe Ferguson led them to the State Title with a perfect 14-0 season. That same year the basketball team fueled by Melvin Russell won a basketball title. The Track team won the state title that following spring and in 1972 Robert Parish led the Knights to another State basketball title. As a sophomore I watched as our team lost in the state semifinals to Covington High on a last minute interception touchdown return. My senior year I thought we had a chance for a title as our basketball team lost in the State finals and a few months earlier our football team made another run losing in the semifinals. The 70's were filled with many sports memories but most of which were sports I wasn't participating. That would soon change!
In the 80's I played softball and flag football...a lot! I was lucky enough to be a part of a few state title softball teams as well as 3 flag football championship teams. The first is probably my favorite as I finally won one as a player. I remember the long drive home back from south Louisiana and being exhausted but inside I felt so proud. Our team was a close knit bunch of rag tag guys who simply outwilled most of our opponents that weekend.
In 1990 I was a part of a National Championship flag football team that was loaded with talent. I really don't even remember how I got to be on this team but Coach John Lewis gave me a spot on the team as a defensive rusher and I took it! Fun times, fun times.
Fast forward to a few years ago with a body that wouldn't allow me to play softball much less try to run, I bowled some to satisfy my competitive cravings. The beatings my wore out body took from playing sports most of my life were taking it's toll. Everything seemed to hurt so much that I wasn't able to compete like I felt I could. That's where cornhole came into play!
In late 2014 I went to a friend's birthday party where they had some boards set up. I didn't know much about the game but I liked it. A few weeks later I built some boards and started playing some. I found a guy in the Longview area named John Towery, who allowed me to play in his weekly random draw events. After a couple of weeks he asked me if I would want to play in a big event in Dallas called the Ryder Cup. Not sure what I was getting into, I eagerly said yes! Not ever having played in any type of event like this I really didn't know what to expect. Once I was there, I realized very quick that I was outmatched...by a long shot.
That was in January and I knew I wanted to play in more of those type of events against those type of players. I also knew that I wasn't good enough at that point to compete. Mission accepted. I practiced as much as I could and played locally when I could and felt as if I was somewhat ready to give it a try against the best that Texas had to offer. Being a new player I didn't really get to play against the best and that was a good thing at that point! I did however play in the Social Division winning a State Title in Doubles and it was on baby! Now I wanted to get even better and play more which I did. Starting that next season as a "newby" I played in the Open Division at my first Signature event in Mesquite. I won a game or two until being matched up with a guy I knew was really good. I really didn't even know him or why I thought he was good other than he was wearing one of those jerseys and when I watched him throw, his bags kept going in the hole! I lost that game to Jason Andrews by 21-12 or something like that but I can remember being very nervous. The next event I attended was the Houston Signature where I felt deja vu. I won a game or two then played Adam Utz who beat me but again, I was super nervous. I came home that weekend and told my wife, Betty that I had to try to do something to get over my nerves. I figured I had to play more and against the better players. I joined the Forney League and each week I went up against guys like Stuart Foster, Daniel Vinson, Jason Andrews and Joe Arrington. I got crushed… a lot...but I was getting better at tuning out my nerves. I still couldn't beat those guys but it wasn't because I was nervous, I just wasn't good enough. I had more work to do!
Fast forward to now as the State Tournament is upon us and I still can't beat most of those guys but now I can score a few here and there!
This State Tournament is loaded...I mean loaded with talent. The field is as deep with good players as I've ever seen. Let me see...Josh Groce, Eddie Grinderslev, Stuart Foster, Daniel Vinson, Todd Bridgeman, A J Sims, Brandon Gregor, Eric Weathers, Christina Esopinosa, Jason Andrews, J C Nekuza, Adam Utz, Chad Jacobson, Justin Fowler, Joe Arrington...whew. Then we have guys like Earnest Herrera, Greg Kilmer, Mark Rubio, Mark Bitner, Nik Gemmiti, Kenneth Wright, Justin Gore, Justin Bennett, Justin Winschel, Nick Knabe, Jeremy O'Connell, Steve Stowe, Dallas Berthuime, Buddy Gotee...I mean Beaird, Frank Stockton, J D Thompson...the stinking list goes on and on with people that are really good!
That's not including the Senior's with guys like Tom Allen, Steve Wendling and Ken Wright. The Women's field will be super competitive as well with Espinosa, Betty Seymour, Jennifer Young, Trista Zonker, Veronica Vinson, Allison Appleton, Taylor De Leon, Amy Sledge, Ashley Conway...easy Rogge...Brittney Arrington, Amber Groce, Tracey Chamberlain and Caroline Johnston. This will be fun to watch!
All the years of playing sports has allowed me to compete but it has also introduced me to many wonderful people, some who have become life long friends that I consider family. I look forward to every event as I get to see my TCL family!
If you like competition, and I do, then you will love this year's State Championship in Abeline. It's going to be a great time and like many of us, we are on a mission to grab the title and hoist the hardware proclaiming ourselves as State Champions!!
Good luck everyone and be safe in your travels.
Many of you know that for the past few years I've been a regular in the Texas Cornhole scene. I love the game, competing and maybe more than anything, seeing the group of friends that this game has introduced me to. The game provides me with the ability to satisfy my competitive urges that I have in my blood! I've been playing organized sports for around 50 years...yep, I'm not a spring chicken! I started out with little league baseball and was fortunate to be a part of a really good team that included a friend that I still talk with a few times a month. He and I played many various sports together including our first Championship team, a Shreveport City Basketball title in basketball as 6th graders at Atkins Elementary. I scored 1 point all season...and it didn't even count as my foot crossed the line on a free throw. We had a couple of real tall guys, Jimmy Blackwell and Keith Grant and some guys that could handle and shoot the ball well making our team very strong. I got to play late after those guys had built up big leads...mop up duty or whatever you want to call it, I didn't care, I was on the team and we were good!
I went to Woodlawn High School which had a tremendous athletic tradition. In the 60's Terry Bradshaw led the Knights to the State title game losing to Sulphur and couple of years later Joe Ferguson led them to the State Title with a perfect 14-0 season. That same year the basketball team fueled by Melvin Russell won a basketball title. The Track team won the state title that following spring and in 1972 Robert Parish led the Knights to another State basketball title. As a sophomore I watched as our team lost in the state semifinals to Covington High on a last minute interception touchdown return. My senior year I thought we had a chance for a title as our basketball team lost in the State finals and a few months earlier our football team made another run losing in the semifinals. The 70's were filled with many sports memories but most of which were sports I wasn't participating. That would soon change!
In the 80's I played softball and flag football...a lot! I was lucky enough to be a part of a few state title softball teams as well as 3 flag football championship teams. The first is probably my favorite as I finally won one as a player. I remember the long drive home back from south Louisiana and being exhausted but inside I felt so proud. Our team was a close knit bunch of rag tag guys who simply outwilled most of our opponents that weekend.
In 1990 I was a part of a National Championship flag football team that was loaded with talent. I really don't even remember how I got to be on this team but Coach John Lewis gave me a spot on the team as a defensive rusher and I took it! Fun times, fun times.
Fast forward to a few years ago with a body that wouldn't allow me to play softball much less try to run, I bowled some to satisfy my competitive cravings. The beatings my wore out body took from playing sports most of my life were taking it's toll. Everything seemed to hurt so much that I wasn't able to compete like I felt I could. That's where cornhole came into play!
In late 2014 I went to a friend's birthday party where they had some boards set up. I didn't know much about the game but I liked it. A few weeks later I built some boards and started playing some. I found a guy in the Longview area named John Towery, who allowed me to play in his weekly random draw events. After a couple of weeks he asked me if I would want to play in a big event in Dallas called the Ryder Cup. Not sure what I was getting into, I eagerly said yes! Not ever having played in any type of event like this I really didn't know what to expect. Once I was there, I realized very quick that I was outmatched...by a long shot.
That was in January and I knew I wanted to play in more of those type of events against those type of players. I also knew that I wasn't good enough at that point to compete. Mission accepted. I practiced as much as I could and played locally when I could and felt as if I was somewhat ready to give it a try against the best that Texas had to offer. Being a new player I didn't really get to play against the best and that was a good thing at that point! I did however play in the Social Division winning a State Title in Doubles and it was on baby! Now I wanted to get even better and play more which I did. Starting that next season as a "newby" I played in the Open Division at my first Signature event in Mesquite. I won a game or two until being matched up with a guy I knew was really good. I really didn't even know him or why I thought he was good other than he was wearing one of those jerseys and when I watched him throw, his bags kept going in the hole! I lost that game to Jason Andrews by 21-12 or something like that but I can remember being very nervous. The next event I attended was the Houston Signature where I felt deja vu. I won a game or two then played Adam Utz who beat me but again, I was super nervous. I came home that weekend and told my wife, Betty that I had to try to do something to get over my nerves. I figured I had to play more and against the better players. I joined the Forney League and each week I went up against guys like Stuart Foster, Daniel Vinson, Jason Andrews and Joe Arrington. I got crushed… a lot...but I was getting better at tuning out my nerves. I still couldn't beat those guys but it wasn't because I was nervous, I just wasn't good enough. I had more work to do!
Fast forward to now as the State Tournament is upon us and I still can't beat most of those guys but now I can score a few here and there!
This State Tournament is loaded...I mean loaded with talent. The field is as deep with good players as I've ever seen. Let me see...Josh Groce, Eddie Grinderslev, Stuart Foster, Daniel Vinson, Todd Bridgeman, A J Sims, Brandon Gregor, Eric Weathers, Christina Esopinosa, Jason Andrews, J C Nekuza, Adam Utz, Chad Jacobson, Justin Fowler, Joe Arrington...whew. Then we have guys like Earnest Herrera, Greg Kilmer, Mark Rubio, Mark Bitner, Nik Gemmiti, Kenneth Wright, Justin Gore, Justin Bennett, Justin Winschel, Nick Knabe, Jeremy O'Connell, Steve Stowe, Dallas Berthuime, Buddy Gotee...I mean Beaird, Frank Stockton, J D Thompson...the stinking list goes on and on with people that are really good!
That's not including the Senior's with guys like Tom Allen, Steve Wendling and Ken Wright. The Women's field will be super competitive as well with Espinosa, Betty Seymour, Jennifer Young, Trista Zonker, Veronica Vinson, Allison Appleton, Taylor De Leon, Amy Sledge, Ashley Conway...easy Rogge...Brittney Arrington, Amber Groce, Tracey Chamberlain and Caroline Johnston. This will be fun to watch!
All the years of playing sports has allowed me to compete but it has also introduced me to many wonderful people, some who have become life long friends that I consider family. I look forward to every event as I get to see my TCL family!
If you like competition, and I do, then you will love this year's State Championship in Abeline. It's going to be a great time and like many of us, we are on a mission to grab the title and hoist the hardware proclaiming ourselves as State Champions!!
Good luck everyone and be safe in your travels.
Sunday, June 9, 2019
Credit
A few short years ago I attended my first TCL event which was the Ryder Cup. I was blown away by not only how good everyone was at playing the game but also at how smooth the event was being ran. People behind the score table were super busy calling out matches, tending to people who were reporting results and various other things that I really didn't understand. Organized chaos was a thought that came to mind and I realized that it must take great effort to run these things and especially large events like the Signature Series and State Events. Someone was responsible for coordinating it all including setting up all the boards and score towers and all the electrical equipment. Then there was the registration process which took time and effort keeping up with who all had signed up and paid. Entering all the names of the players and getting the brackets ready was another daunting task. The easy part, if any, may have been calling out the matches and after I had the opportunity to run some events, I realized that wasn't a cake walk either! What I'm getting at folks is the Texas Cornhole League has a lot of people who do a ton of work to allow us the chance to play this game. They do it so well it seems as if it magically just... happens! These people are what TCL calls Regional Directors and they are the backbone along with Chad Jacobson, Jason Andrews, Justin Fowler, Adam Utz and J D Thompson. They are simply put, awesome. Id like to mention them and hopefully I won't leave any of them out.
When I initially considered doing a blog about all the directors I intended to write a sentence or two about all of them, however, I got a list and realized it may be a short book! Instead I will mention as many as I can and may share a brief story on a few.
Out in West Texas we have Anthony Elliott leading the growth in the Abilene area. Southeast Oklahoma is led by Jason Gambill and Allison Appleton is the Director for the Midwest Oklahoma Baggers while Adam Acton runs the Oklahoma City Region. Anthony is a new Director and I look forward to seeing him in a week or so! Adam, Allison and Jason have done a great job growing the sport in Oklahoma and I hope to be able to attend some of their events soon, also.
Rob Mikalonis heads up the Alamo City Region, Eric Weathers is the 979 Director and in Austin Chase Hunter runs the Austin Airmail Region. These guys have done great work in these Regions and I've enjoyed playing in their events.
Jeff Robinson heads up the Midlothian Region and James Sledge is the 35/45 Director. I've played in several of their events and they do a great job.
J D Thompson when he isn't helping TCL with the Signature Events and keeping up with points and leagues and...man this guy is amazing, he also runs C4C in the Mansfield area. J D has ran several events at Mansfield's Field of Dreams and as a veteran of TCL, he simply is one of the best!
Fort Worth is ran by Chad Jacobson including a massive league at the Mule Barn. Chad. Does. A. Lot. Chad gets help from Adam Utz and these guys are huge with all the things they do for us regarding leagues, Tournaments, equipment sales and basically all things TCL!
Rolando Rios and John Henderson lead RoRo's Cornhole Express out of Johnson County and Ray Roberts Region respectively. I haven't had the privilege of playing in any of their events but both of these guys are top notch men and I'm certain they do great work.
Nick Knabe is the Denton Region Director and Nick is always helping out and a seemingly tireless worker who not only creates awesome barn doors and such, but has put on a couple of awesome Big Money events. North Texas Region is run by Taylor Stone and I've enjoy playing in his events which are always well ran.
Rob Ochoa leads the Dallas Region while veteran Jason Andrews heads up the East Dallas Region. Jason is highly involved in everything regarding TCL including running the Forney League and tournaments in the East Dallas area.
East Texas Region is led by Holly Saxon and Craig Conser runs Rose City Cornhole. In their first year of being Directors, these two have done fantastic work growing cornhole here in East Texas. They ran several events including multiple leagues this year and are always doing what they can to provide a fun, successful experience for everyone.
I think this is all of them! Big respect to all of them and all they do and the next time you see them, give them a handshake or a hug and tell them thanks, they deserve it!
Till next time, throw em' straight y'all!
When I initially considered doing a blog about all the directors I intended to write a sentence or two about all of them, however, I got a list and realized it may be a short book! Instead I will mention as many as I can and may share a brief story on a few.
Out in West Texas we have Anthony Elliott leading the growth in the Abilene area. Southeast Oklahoma is led by Jason Gambill and Allison Appleton is the Director for the Midwest Oklahoma Baggers while Adam Acton runs the Oklahoma City Region. Anthony is a new Director and I look forward to seeing him in a week or so! Adam, Allison and Jason have done a great job growing the sport in Oklahoma and I hope to be able to attend some of their events soon, also.
Rob Mikalonis heads up the Alamo City Region, Eric Weathers is the 979 Director and in Austin Chase Hunter runs the Austin Airmail Region. These guys have done great work in these Regions and I've enjoyed playing in their events.
Jeff Robinson heads up the Midlothian Region and James Sledge is the 35/45 Director. I've played in several of their events and they do a great job.
J D Thompson when he isn't helping TCL with the Signature Events and keeping up with points and leagues and...man this guy is amazing, he also runs C4C in the Mansfield area. J D has ran several events at Mansfield's Field of Dreams and as a veteran of TCL, he simply is one of the best!
Fort Worth is ran by Chad Jacobson including a massive league at the Mule Barn. Chad. Does. A. Lot. Chad gets help from Adam Utz and these guys are huge with all the things they do for us regarding leagues, Tournaments, equipment sales and basically all things TCL!
Rolando Rios and John Henderson lead RoRo's Cornhole Express out of Johnson County and Ray Roberts Region respectively. I haven't had the privilege of playing in any of their events but both of these guys are top notch men and I'm certain they do great work.
Nick Knabe is the Denton Region Director and Nick is always helping out and a seemingly tireless worker who not only creates awesome barn doors and such, but has put on a couple of awesome Big Money events. North Texas Region is run by Taylor Stone and I've enjoy playing in his events which are always well ran.
Rob Ochoa leads the Dallas Region while veteran Jason Andrews heads up the East Dallas Region. Jason is highly involved in everything regarding TCL including running the Forney League and tournaments in the East Dallas area.
East Texas Region is led by Holly Saxon and Craig Conser runs Rose City Cornhole. In their first year of being Directors, these two have done fantastic work growing cornhole here in East Texas. They ran several events including multiple leagues this year and are always doing what they can to provide a fun, successful experience for everyone.
I think this is all of them! Big respect to all of them and all they do and the next time you see them, give them a handshake or a hug and tell them thanks, they deserve it!
Till next time, throw em' straight y'all!
Tuesday, May 21, 2019
Denton Signature Series Recap
Each year the Texas Cornhole League puts on 6 major events. The Ryder Cup, the State/Conference Tournament and 4 Signature Series Events. This past Friday and Saturday TCL hosted the seasons forth and final Signature Series Event in Denton, Tx at the Denton Convention Center. I feel safe in saying that everyone thought highly of this venue. I mean, free beer during happy hour, who does that!! The food that I ate was good and affordable and the beer must have been good as I heard they sold out of Coors Light!
Things got rolling Friday with the Singles Events highlighted by the Open division. Veteran Steve Vanderver who has played many big events showed his worth as he got past Mark Bitner to claim the win. Bitner won his first 7 games to gain a seat in the finals and was throwing darts all night. Vandever lost in the winners bracket semis to a white hot Tom Allen before rattling off several wins to get back to the finals. Vandever wouldn't be denied as he double-dipped Bitner in a couple of well played games. Chad Jacobson threw well all night and was able to nab a 3rd place finish while Johnny Seymour placed 4th.
In the Tier 1 drop down Singles Greg Kilmer defeated Justin Winschel for the win while Earnest Herrera and Grant Upchurch finished 3rd and 4th respectively.
The Tier 2 Singles had Casey Young delivering more than bread as he defeated Ryan Littlejohn to grab some 1st place hardware. Jonathon Perez came in 3rd and Matt Martinez came in 4th.
In the Social Singles Josh Heilman went undefeated beating Earnest Monarca to grab the win. Monarca lost in the 3rd round of the winners bracket then reeled off an impressive 9 straight wins to get back to the finals. Chase Jackson finished 3rd while Jason Newport came in 4th. Randy Fowler defeated Cory Clower to win the Backyard Singles with Troy Slover and Dakota King finishing 3rd and 4th.
Open Doubles gave us more Vanderver...well ya see, Steve teamed up with his wife Jenn and came away with the win defeating Chad Jacobson and Daniel Vinson to complete a weekend sweep for Steve. Jason Andrews teamed up with JC Nekuza to finish 3rd and Stuart Foster and Joe Arrington ended up in 4th.
Tier 1 Doubles was won by Dallas Berthiaume and Grant Upchurch as they defeated Nick Knabe and Dan Rogge. The Cornhole Killaz also known as Jason Robertson and Roel Salinas came in 3rd and Tristan Janca and Peyton Welch finished in 4th.
Tier 2 had Donnie Marshall and Mark Cordes winning as they beat Tyler Weaver and Steve Sheffield for the win. Rolando Rios and John Brady won 3rd and David Robinson and Brian Cranford slid in to finish 4th.
Social Doubles was won by Sean McManus and Anthony Long as they got past Sean Weatherford and Jeff Hughes. Finishing 3rd was Steven Youngblood and Troy Slover while 4th place was won by Randy Fowler and David Cavins.
The Backyard Doubles had Clayton Brewer and Brittney Arrington taking home the win as they beat Lane McManus and Travis Sutton. Zach Williams and Brad Hughes came in 3rd and Anthony Hudson and Jim Hughes finished 4th.
Overall I'd have to say this was a great weekend of cornhole. Great venue, great games and great people. Speaking of great people, the folks that put this event on need to be mentioned. Chad Jacobson, Jason Andrews, Justin Fowler, Adam Utz and J D Thompson...you guys are amazing. Most people don't realize what all it takes to put on an event like this but I do. I know there are gazillions of hours that go into planning and organizing a tournament this size and for it go off without a hitch is a testament to your value. It is appreciated tremendously. Also, we thank your wives and families who allow you guys to put forth the time and effort to make these events happen for all of us.
Next up will be the State/Conference Event next month. See Y'all in Abeline!!
Things got rolling Friday with the Singles Events highlighted by the Open division. Veteran Steve Vanderver who has played many big events showed his worth as he got past Mark Bitner to claim the win. Bitner won his first 7 games to gain a seat in the finals and was throwing darts all night. Vandever lost in the winners bracket semis to a white hot Tom Allen before rattling off several wins to get back to the finals. Vandever wouldn't be denied as he double-dipped Bitner in a couple of well played games. Chad Jacobson threw well all night and was able to nab a 3rd place finish while Johnny Seymour placed 4th.
In the Tier 1 drop down Singles Greg Kilmer defeated Justin Winschel for the win while Earnest Herrera and Grant Upchurch finished 3rd and 4th respectively.
The Tier 2 Singles had Casey Young delivering more than bread as he defeated Ryan Littlejohn to grab some 1st place hardware. Jonathon Perez came in 3rd and Matt Martinez came in 4th.
In the Social Singles Josh Heilman went undefeated beating Earnest Monarca to grab the win. Monarca lost in the 3rd round of the winners bracket then reeled off an impressive 9 straight wins to get back to the finals. Chase Jackson finished 3rd while Jason Newport came in 4th. Randy Fowler defeated Cory Clower to win the Backyard Singles with Troy Slover and Dakota King finishing 3rd and 4th.
Open Doubles gave us more Vanderver...well ya see, Steve teamed up with his wife Jenn and came away with the win defeating Chad Jacobson and Daniel Vinson to complete a weekend sweep for Steve. Jason Andrews teamed up with JC Nekuza to finish 3rd and Stuart Foster and Joe Arrington ended up in 4th.
Tier 1 Doubles was won by Dallas Berthiaume and Grant Upchurch as they defeated Nick Knabe and Dan Rogge. The Cornhole Killaz also known as Jason Robertson and Roel Salinas came in 3rd and Tristan Janca and Peyton Welch finished in 4th.
Tier 2 had Donnie Marshall and Mark Cordes winning as they beat Tyler Weaver and Steve Sheffield for the win. Rolando Rios and John Brady won 3rd and David Robinson and Brian Cranford slid in to finish 4th.
Social Doubles was won by Sean McManus and Anthony Long as they got past Sean Weatherford and Jeff Hughes. Finishing 3rd was Steven Youngblood and Troy Slover while 4th place was won by Randy Fowler and David Cavins.
The Backyard Doubles had Clayton Brewer and Brittney Arrington taking home the win as they beat Lane McManus and Travis Sutton. Zach Williams and Brad Hughes came in 3rd and Anthony Hudson and Jim Hughes finished 4th.
Overall I'd have to say this was a great weekend of cornhole. Great venue, great games and great people. Speaking of great people, the folks that put this event on need to be mentioned. Chad Jacobson, Jason Andrews, Justin Fowler, Adam Utz and J D Thompson...you guys are amazing. Most people don't realize what all it takes to put on an event like this but I do. I know there are gazillions of hours that go into planning and organizing a tournament this size and for it go off without a hitch is a testament to your value. It is appreciated tremendously. Also, we thank your wives and families who allow you guys to put forth the time and effort to make these events happen for all of us.
Next up will be the State/Conference Event next month. See Y'all in Abeline!!
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