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Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

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National ice skating showcase comes to Wesley Chapel

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It was figure skating’s time in the spotlight.

Literally.

AdventHealth Center Ice — known widely for its hockey teams and tournaments — hosted an entirely different kind of event, when more than 500 performers laced up their skates for the U.S. Figure Skating 2022 National Showcase.

Megan Siemp, of the Ice House Skating Academy in Michigan, performs her Junior Character Performance Showcase during the U.S. Figure Skating 2022 National Showcase at AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel. More than 500 performers came to the weeklong competition, and put on varying showcases with costumes and musical numbers. (Mike Camunas)

The competition ran from Aug. 1 to Aug. 6.

The performers donned impressive costumes and used various props to perform to memorable songs, to demonstrate their impressive skills.

“We do have a lot of hockey events, so it was really nice for figure skating to take over the rink for a whole week,” said Jenna Dispenza, who, with her husband, Vinny, are the skating directors at Center Ice. “Hockey is great — Go Lightning! — but it’s nice for figure skating to get its turn here to shine.

“And it’s pretty incredible,” she added. “(The showcase) is the biggest national-type of competition U.S. Figure Skating hosts. Plus, the elite level of the theatrical side is just a huge bonus, because it’s comparable to Broadway (shows).

Traverse City (Michigan) Figure Skating Club’s Anna Rossiter goes full ‘greased lightning’ for her Junior Character Performance Showcase.

“Once the showcases get going, it’s really ‘Lights, camera, action!’”

Skaters flooded the common areas and halls of Center Ice, wearing elaborate costumes and makeup. They worked with props to come up with theatrical performance showcases, fusing figure skating with artistic creativity.

Showcase events were open to single skaters, duets, small ensembles and production numbers.

Skaters performed in the categories such as Emotional Performance, Choreographic Artistry, Lyrical Pop, Character Performance, Comedic Impressions and Interpretive.

Remington Bennett, of the Ice House Skating Academy in Michigan, was one of more than 500 performers at the recent U.S. Figure Skating 2022 National Showcase, at AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel.

“The incredible entertainment this event, its skaters are bringing is so different in our sport where it’s not just the technical part,” Dispenza said. “It’s not just jumps and spins — it’s the costumes, the props, the music, the theatrical side of skating, some of which you don’t typically see.”

Dispenza said the community came out in large numbers, not just to see the showcases, but also to volunteer.

“A lot of people really wanted to see a different side of skating,” Dispenza added.

“And they weren’t disappointed. They saw some incredible showcases.”

The Dispenzas also coach Champion’s Edge, the figure skating club at Center Ice. The club was well represented in the National Showcase, with the skaters performing their own showcases, as well as a team performance.

Figure skater performers from Michigan, Paige Bartholomew, left, and Lexi Lafata, help each other apply makeup for their performances at the U.S. Figure Skating 2022 National Showcase, at AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel.

The team — featuring eight girls, ages 11 to 16 — offered their take on Florida by transforming themselves into “The Beach Girls” for the performance on Aug. 6.

“It’s incredible to get a big group of skaters like that working toward one big showcase,” Dispenza said. “We have local skaters who want to get out there and just take complete advantage of this opportunity to put on a showcase here.”

Jessica Romonosky, a 14-year-old Land O’ Lakes resident with Champion’s Edge, was proud of the way Center Ice hosted the event.

“This is the biggest thing to ever happen (to figure skating) at the rink,” Romonosky said. “It’s really great to see how our rink is being fully represented with such a huge event. It’s so awesome to be a part of this entire showcase.”

Fellow Land O’ Lakes resident Mackenzie Toews, 11, said she wasn’t used to so many additional figure skaters beyond her Champion’s Edge club.

“But it was so cool and awesome to see everyone’s different routine and what they ended up doing for a performance,” she added.

That was the whole point: figure skaters had a whole week to spotlight their talents.

Just like Olivia Bosley, a 13-year-old Dade City resident, who performed her showcase to ‘When I Am Older,’ a song sung by Olaf (Josh Gad) in ‘Frozen 2.’

“I’m really proud of my work, considering it’s at a national showcase,” Bosley said. The event, she said, “is pretty exciting because you get to see what everyone else comes up with and puts together in different categories. I think we’re all excited to perform, but we’re also very excited to watch other performances, too.”

Published August 10, 2022

Kasey Breul, dressed as Marty McFly from ‘Back To The Future,’ views a television screen to watch other skaters performing at the U.S. Figure Skating 2022 National Showcase, in Wesley Chapel.
Alexandra Nelson, dressed as Doc Brown from ‘Back To The Future,’ awaits in full costume to perform her showcase with her partner, Kasey Breul, dressed as Marty McFly.
Gemma Soles, of the Traverse City (Michigan) Figure Skating Club, dons a yellow costume and soulful song for her Junior Character Performance Showcase during the U.S. Figure Skating 2022 National Showcase, at AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel.
Kate Mullen, of All Year Figure Skating Club in Los Angeles, was one of more than 500 performers from across the nation at the figure skating showcase.

 

This kid is revved up and ready to go

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Just like that, the training wheels came off.

It took no time at all for Elijah Sumner to be riding a pint-sized dirt bike.

By himself.

Elijah Sumner, 10, of Zephyrhills, races around the track at Dade City Motocross during a recent practice session. Sumner won the 65CC championship in 2021. (Mike Camunas)

That led to racing around the track at Dade City Motocross.

And, eventually, that led to winning the 65CC Championship for 7- to 9-year-olds in 2021.

“I couldn’t believe it (that I had won) because we had been working toward it ever since I was 6 or 7 (years old), and then I finally won it and all the emotions broke loose,” the 10-year-old said. “I was just so happy. It was a lot of work.”

The work paid off for the soon-to-be fifth-grader at Chester Taylor Elementary. The championship earned him a 4 ½-foot trophy, a $500 helmet, various other prizes, and a poster of him on the track, riding in his championship run.

Elijah Sumner catches some air, at Dade City Motocross.

“I like to compete with my friends, just trying to win, plus just being on the track,” Sumner added. “I remember being out here when I was little (at age 4) and it was fun, and it’s where I learned the competitiveness.”

Competitiveness comes with the territory in motocross. So does the drive. Because as Andy Sumner, Elijah’s dad, remembers it, he couldn’t hold back his son from motocross racing.

“Back in 2015, when he was still somewhat of a baby, one of my good friends, his son, was racing,” Andy said. “So, I’d just put him on a little dirt bike, and I’d get on and ride it with him. Then I bought a dirt bike and put training wheels on it, and at about 4 ½, he was riding by himself.

Elijah Sumner preps with his dad, Andy, before making rounds on the track at Dade City Motocross.

“It’s all about the love of racing, with me and my son,” Andy added. “Just that father-and-son bond, just having fun out here racing. He’s got his friends out here, too, ones he’s been riding with for years and growing up together at this track since he was 4 or 5 years old.

Elijah Sumner

“Motocross is a moto-family all the way.”

Elijah’s performance has earned him a handful of sponsorships, because, as Andy puts it, “They say you got to spend $2 million to make a million in this sport.”

Local businesses — such as Dad’s Powder Coating in Zephyrhills, Sunrise Eatery in Zephyrhills, Bullfrog Performances in Zephyrhills and Southern Savage Photography — are taking notice of the young dirt biker and supporting him in his fun endeavor.

“He loves it and has fun with it — that’s the biggest thing,” Andy said. “We’re lucky to have those sponsors and he’s earned it. He cried when he won the championship — was just full of emotion getting his biggest win to date.”

So Elijah is now onto the next challenge, or class, that is. He moves up to the 85CC class, which runs for ages 10 to 15, and features a larger bike and bigger motor.

Elijah knows it’ll be hard work, but hopes another championship will come in no time at all.

“That’s the goal,” said a sweaty, out-of-breath Elijah, as he pulled off his helmet after practice laps at Dade City Motocross. “I’m going to try to win my age group on the 85(CC) now. It’s time for a bigger bike and a harder class — and more of a challenge.”

Dade City Motocross
Where: 36722 State Road 52, Dade City
When: Practices are Thursdays and Saturdays, with races held Saturday nights.
Info: Visit DadeCityMx.com, call 813-781-9569, or email .

Published August 03, 2022

A few ‘sticking’ points, in the art of self-defense

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This is definitely one way to stick it to the opposition.

Kali Filipino Stick Fighting. This martial arts form is gaining popularity, as it becomes more and more prevalent in media — from movies and TV shows.

Noah Hioario works with a stick and a rubber knife instrument during a Kali Filipino Stick Fighting class at the Wesley Chapel Recreation Complex. This beautiful, but deadly, art form instills awareness of self-defense, and of its Filipino heritage and culture. (Mike Camunas)

At the Wesley Chapel Recreation Complex, Grandmaster James Berdal is teaching this form of self-defense that came to the mainstream during the 1970s, taking its place next to other major martial arts.

“From Day One, a stick, or two, will be in your hand,” said Berdal, who was trained in stick fighting by Supreme Grandmaster Floro Villabrille and Grandmaster Ben Largusa. “Unlike other systems, the weapons training is not until after a certain level. With the use of the sticks, the hands develop and become ambidextrous with (all the) drilling.

Kali Filipino Stick Fighting students learn techniques and moves through smooth rhythm and flow, which leads to self-defense that can be used with other martial arts forms.

“The main purpose, for me, is to perpetuate this very beautiful and deadly art form, and its cultures, and to instill awareness of self-defense to my students.”

Berdal, originally from the Philippines, teaches the Kali form, which is what he learned from Villabrille-Largusa teachings. It emphasizes weapon-based fighting with sticks, knives, bladed weapons and various improvised weapons, as well as “open hand” techniques without weapons. The method can be used in any fighting system, defensively or offensively, through the use of angles and zone concepts by rhythm and flow.

“Why stick fighting?” Berdal asks. “It gives individuals a well-rounded application of weapons and a strong base core to multiple weapons with simplicity.”

Kali Filipino Stick Fighting Grandmaster James Berdal runs this self-defense class at the Wesley Chapel Recreation Complex, teaching students a method that one can adapt to any fighting system, especially with rhythm and flow.

Students of the twice-weekly class work with long sticks that resemble bamboo poles, but they also work with actual deadly weapons.

For the most part though, and for safety reasons, participants — who must be 13 or older — will use a rubber-knife weapon with their stick to practice moves and flow.

“In a nutshell,” Berdal adds, “it’s a cultural art that is just now getting recognized — no one knew it was a part of the Philippines. Most everyone thought it was part taekwondo or judo or just karate.

Kyle Lacanlale works his sticks in defense doing drills with a partner, during a Kali Filipino Stick Fighting class at the Wesley Chapel Recreation Complex.

“Stick fighting is coming out and it’s in demand. It’s in the movies, it’s on TV, and now it’s requested by many stunt operators and military-combat training advisors.”

Kali Filipino Stick Fighting is very controlled. While the students do pick up weapons very quickly, they are taught discipline, which is evidenced by Berdal’s use of a drum to instruct and coordinate precise moves, both with weapons and empty hands.

Those who take stick fighting classes are surprised by its good, low-impact workout and that it teaches how to use weapons in a controlled manner.

“I thought it was just like, you know, swinging sticks, especially after listening to them talk about it,” said student Marley Galan. “But then I actually tried it, and I’ve been really enjoying it. … At first, it was really hard, and they just taught me the basics. Even to this day, I still get a whole bunch of stuff wrong, but I’ve seen progress.

“For me, I like the idea of learning a new skill, and this skill seems like it’s pretty useful, and I know it’s a good way to keep active.”

As for Berdal, it is important to teach the culture behind Kali Filipino Stick Fighting. That’s definitely what one might call, a “sticking” point, for him.

In his classes, he shares stories about his teachers to honor their legacy and to teach the Kali system to the community.

“The movements can be like a dance,” Berdal added. “This is a very controlled, very slow martial art that’s not as aggressive as some others. There’s balance that comes with the movements, but then also the points of finesse and accuracy. Very Ying to the Yang.”

Kali Filipino Stick Fighting Classes
Where: Wesley Chapel Recreation Complex, 7727 Boyette Road
When: Mondays and Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Cost: $60 per month
Details: Learn the finer points of Kali Filipino Stick Fighting from Grandmaster James Berdal. This class includes weapons and is for participants ages 13 and older. Register online at secure.rec1.com/fl/pasco-county-fl.
Info: Call 813-345-3145.

Published July 27, 2022

instructing his students when to move, teaching them balance and coordination both with empty-hand moves and with a variety of weapons.
Marley Galan works on form with his sticks during a Kali Filipino Stick Fighting class at the Wesley Chapel Recreation Complex.
Kali Filipino Stick Fighting student Imaini Thompson works on a pose with form during a class at the Wesley Chapel Recreation Complex.
Domarchiné Thompson, a student of Kali Filipino Stick Fighting, practices moves during a class at the Wesley Chapel Recreation Complex.

From Lutz to Ole Miss, Tim Elko becomes a legend

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A statue will be erected for Tim Elko.

That’s the rumor as big as the legend is of this Lutz native.

“That would be really cool, but I think they could build one for a lot of guys — our pitchers, Coach (Mike) B(ianco), a lot of deserving people,” Elko said.

Ole Miss baseball captain and Lutz native, Tim Elko, holds up the NCAA National Championship trophy on June 26 at Charles Schwab Field Omaha. The Rebels defeated Oklahoma in two games. Elko homered in the first game. (Courtesy of Josh McCoy, Ole Miss Athletics)

“Heck, there could be a statue of all of us holding the trophy!”

The trophy that Elko, and his Ole Miss Baseball teammates, would be holding is the one they brought back to Oxford, Mississippi, after winning the 2022 College World Series (CWS).

Playing in their first CWS Finals, this is the Rebels’ first title in program history.

On June 26, the Rebels defeated Oklahoma at Charles Schwab Field Omaha, etching the Rebels, and Elko, in the history books.

“It’s a dream come true,” said Elko, who hit a homer in the first of two CWS games the Rebels played. “You just couldn’t ask for a cooler final season. Some people counted us out, but the rest is history. This was just a great team that never gave up and believed in our abilities. Really, a dream come true.”

Becoming a national champion caps off an amazing collegiate career for Elko, who arrived in Oxford in 2017, after graduating through Hillsborough High School’s International Baccalaureate Program.

He played sparingly, as a freshman.

He played in 32 games as a sophomore in 2019. He had two homers and nine RBI.

Heading into his junior year, he was poised for a breakout. Instead, COVID broke out, shuttering the 2020 season.

Ole Miss baseball captain and Lutz native Tim Elko carries the NCAA National Championship trophy through a throng of celebratory Rebels fans after the team won the College World Series on June 26.

He returned in 2021, technically as a senior, and put in a remarkable season: a .325 average, 16 homers and 55 RBI that helped lead the Rebels to a Super Regional appearance.

The legendary part of that 2021 season? Elko played most of it on a torn ACL.

Adding to his folklore status, Elko made the decision to return for a fifth season (a special exemption because of COVID) since having knee surgery following his best season ended any draft hopes that year.

His fifth season added to the legend: He batted .300, with 24 homers and 75 RBI.

Plus, a national championship.

“I’m sure (scouts) were afraid of my knee, so it just really didn’t work out that way,” Elko said. “But I made the decision through prayer and just decided that God was calling me to come back.

“Now, I see why.”

As a four-year starter for Hillsborough, Elko batted .394 with 93 RBI, 71 runs and 115 hits. And from the start, it was obvious Elko was going places.

As a senior at Hillsborough High in 2017, Tim Elko batted .400, with 21 RBI and two homers. During his four years as a starter, Elko drove in 93 RBI for the Terriers. (Courtesy of Jarrett Guthrie)

“Just from Day One, there was something special about him,” said Bryan Burgess, who was one of his coaches at Hillsborough. “He just stood out with everything he did. Tim didn’t get caught up with what should be cool. He worried about grades and the team, and doing what was right.

“It’s not every day that someone shows up and changes (a high school) program, but he did. Now, he’s at Oxford living the dream, and it’s been great to ride it with him this year.”

Growing up playing at Lutz Little League, it’s surprising that Elko didn’t change the Gaither baseball team, the school in his zone.

But Elko took school seriously, choosing Hillsborough’s IB program, and then completing his master’s in sports analytics and bachelor’s degree in exercise science at Ole Miss.

“When Tim went to Hillsborough, I was pissed!” Gaither baseball coach Nelson North said, with a laugh. “He was very good at Hillsborough. You don’t walk him, but don’t give him anything either because he was a very dangerous hitter in high school.”

Despite always coaching against him, North has followed Elko’s college career closely; North also is a former Rebels ballplayer.

“When he left (Hillsborough County), I was glad,” North said, sarcastically.

But he said he was thrilled Elko was heading to Oxford.

“That’s one of those SEC towns, where they love their college teams. I’m glad he got to experience that because the fans there are absolutely amazing.

“Of course, there is no ill will. I’m a very big fan of Tim Elko,” North added. “Not just because he went to Ole Miss, but because he’s a Hillsborough County boy doing it in the SEC. I’m so thrilled at how well he did and I watched every minute of the Rebels in the postseason. I was cheering him on the whole way.”

Now that the season is over and Elko is a champion, he awaits to see if professional baseball is his future.

He will remain in Oxford as the Major League Baseball draft runs through July 19, but he expects to come back to his hometown eventually.

As a national champion.

“I think I’ll be back in the Fall, but it’ll probably be a minute,” Elko said. “Heck, if they let me bring the trophy down there, I will. I think there’s a lot of people in Lutz who would like to see it.”

Published June 20, 2022

Always so controlling

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These racers are always, even remotely, in control.

Lake Park in Lutz has always had an R/C, or remote control, race car track. It’s a little slice of clay dirt tucked toward the back of the park, providing an outlet for R/C enthusiasts to get outside and do a little racing.

Racers expertly maneuver their cars on the R/C race track at Lake Park in Lutz. (Mike Camunas)

“I would say it’s video game people — definitely hobby enthusiasts,” said Ryan Eckert, a Lutz resident who has been R/C car racing at Lake Park since 1997 and runs monthly weekend races at the track.

“Instead of playing video games, you’re out for a couple of hours, having a little fun and it’s kind of, techy, but it’s not a toy,” he said.

He continued: “Back in the day, you couldn’t buy R/C cars just anywhere like you can now. You can get an R/C car at Pep Boys, actually. It had to be specialty stores, but now that you can buy them anywhere, it’s a much easier hobby to get into.”

Lake Park R/C hosts races once a month except for during the summer because of the rain; however, the race track is open and available for use whenever Lake Park is open. Anyone can use the track at any time, but Eckert and the group maintain it when they can. It’s a dedication to a hobby, and sport, that starts at a young age.

Kurt Stephan, left, and Mitch Zeck, right, examine an R/C car following a race at Lake Park in Lutz.

“I think what got me into it was I wanted to race real cars, but my family couldn’t afford it,” Eckert said. “For sure, it is a lot safer to race remote control cars than real cars.

“Everyone has a blast, I think,” he added, “or I hope they do. I’ve always enjoyed this hobby and I’d like to see more kids, fathers and sons, and even novice drivers come out. All you need is a personal transponder to race.”

That personal transponder hooks into the car and allows Eckert to track lap times, provide stats and, of course, announce the winner. At the races, there are meets for both electric and nitro, or gas-powered, R/Cs. The latter requires actual pit stops to be fueled, which the length of the race also factors in.

Lake Park R/C already sees its fair share of families camp out for the day and make it an outing. Tampa resident Michael Abrahams does this with his son, Nixon, who just got an R/C kit for his birthday after showing an interest in racing.

A remote-controlled car makes a big jump on a hill obstacle at the R/C race track at Lake Park in Lutz.

“He’s into a lot of engineering, so he gets to work on the car, tinker with it and get his hands dirty,” Abrahams said. “It’s a great experience for him and he’s even learning a little something. … But the father/son bonding aspect? For sure. I’ll take that every weekend.”

Odessa resident, 13-year-old driver and the aptly named Ember Dirt, grew up around the R/C track, being “dragged” there by her father. So eventually, she wanted to get her hands on a controller.

“Since my dad has always done it, I wanted to get into it as well — it’s fun,” she said. “It’s not just out here playing with toys. It takes practice and some strategy. My friends think that it’s just toys, but I try to get them to come down and see it’s more than that — I bet they will one day.”

Even if R/C racing is more than toys, it is, indeed, still fun for the drivers.

And that’s all Eckert wants, too.

“I think some people can be a little scared to race — hesitant about those who are too competitive,” he said. “I wish that wasn’t the case because I think people want to come out, race and just have fun. Yes, it’s a race, but it shouldn’t scare people away. I want it to be fun — that’s the whole thing about R/C racing.”

Lake Park R/C
Where: 17314 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Lutz
Details: The organization hosts races monthly, except during the rainy summer months. Most races are on the weekends, but the R/C track at Lake Park is available for visitors, as long as the park is open.
Info: Visit Lake Park R/C on Facebook.

Published July 13, 2022

The aptly named Ember Dirt, 13, of Odessa, expertly works her R/C race car around the track at Lake Park in Lutz.
Racers expertly maneuver their cars on the R/C race track at Lake Park in Lutz.
The R/C race track at Lake Park in Lutz is available for anyone to use at any time the park is open, but is primarily used and maintained by Lake Park R/C, which hosts monthly races on the weekends.
R/C car ‘crashes’ are just as common as their life-sized counterparts and that’s why several helpers will man the track, to straighten out the cars and put them back on track to race.
A remote-controlled car makes a big jump on a hill obstacle at the R/C race track at Lake Park in Lutz.
Ashton Offutt, left, and Mateo Amaya, both of Lutz, work on their remote-control race cars in the ‘garage,’ or tent situated near a pickup truck and table, during a weekend race at Lake Park in Lutz.

No rest for the wicket

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Like many recreational sport leagues, they just needed a place to play.

Unlike many recreational sport leagues, the demand unexpectedly bowled its way right onto the pitch.

The Tampa Falcons pick up a hit in a match against Tampa Shaheen during a weekend match at their pitch, located at Wesley Chapel District Park. The two teams are part of the Tampa Premier League, a cricket organization that hosts several matches and series throughout the year. (Mike Camunas)

“I was playing American College Cricket with USF’s (the University of South Florida’s cricket) Club Team, and we won two championships,” Wesley Chapel resident Nagesh Nayak said.

“When I graduated from USF, there was nowhere I could still play. When I was looking for a place to play, I drove by the empty land on Wesley Chapel District Park and proposed (playing there) to the county — (Parks and Recreation Manager) Brian Taylor and (Pasco County Commissioner) Mike Moore — and they said if you want to play, go ahead.

“So we built a pitch, and then (cricket), all of sudden, was in high demand. People kept coming out and it just kept spreading, so more people wanted in.

“It was like a gradual cult,” he said.

Back in 2016, after Nayak built the pitch at the district park, he started Tampa Premier League, which has cricket teams mostly locally, including places such as Wesley Chapel, Tampa and several near USF, but also as far as St. Petersburg.

Tampa Avengers bowler Gaurav Samant goes sideways with his delivery over the pitch to the St. Pete Shields during a cricket match at Wesley Chapel District Park.

Initially, there were eight teams.

But demand was so high, more teams were added. The league now has 21 teams.

“I don’t always remember names, but I remember faces,” Nayak said. “I think that everyone remembers everyone else out here. So, they just keep telling more and more people about where they can play cricket.

“Free agents are a big thing with us (at this league), especially someone moving to the area, who might not know anymore,” he said. “So, through the Facebook page and social media and messaging, we help get him on a team in the right area or one that might need him.”

Tampa Premier League founder and manager Nagesh Nayak

Nayak says about 80% of the league is USF students, however, there are several teams that come from varying workplaces that have formed a team. For instance, one team is made up of Citibank employees; another, of pediatricians and doctors from New Tampa.

The league hosts six games to 10 games per weekend, and each team is guaranteed per season, or series.

Each series can have a different champion, such as Nayak’s team, the Wesley Chapel Legends, which won the Titan Cup V T20 series in November. Another team — the Tampa Avengers — is looking to defend its Tampa Bay Summer 2021 Super 16 Bash by winning this summer’s Wesley Chapel Summer Blazing 16 series.

The Avengers are off to a good start, defeating the St. Pete Shields on June 18 at the district park.

Cricket is the main sport for India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, said Gaurav Samant, an Avengers all-arounder. He bowls (pitches), bats and plays the field.

“Each of those (countries) has some guys out here because it’s something we all share the love of to play. It’s incredible that so many of us love cricket this much.

“And also still great competition.”

Samant is a great bowler, but admits that “everyone wants to bat — everyone.”

“Bowling — people do it, but batting is what everyone looks at — (it’s) where you can entertain the audience,” he said.

Through all the entertainment, the real reason is obvious why all these players brave the heat and play matches throughout the year.

“This is for the love of the game,” Avengers’ coach Balaramraju Kalidindi said. “This is like a hangout for us. It’s pretty serious, but we still enjoy the game. It’s fun hanging out with friends.

“Cricket is one thing that brings us together.”

Tampa Premier League
Info: A cricket league that plays its games at Wesley Chapel District Park on the weekends. The league has varying series all year long and teams are consistently being added. To learn more about the league, visit tampa-cricket.com/TampaCricket.

The Basics of Cricket
During normal cricket play, 13 players and two umpires are on the field. Two of the players are batters and the rest are 11 members of the fielding team. The other nine players in the batting team are off the field in the pavilion.

The bowler, or pitcher, intends to hit the wicket (a set of three wooden stumps and two bails) at the end of the pitch — a 22-yard center part of the field — with the ball or, at least, to prevent the striker, or batter, from scoring runs. The striker, by using his bat, looks to defend his wicket and, if possible, hit the ball away from the pitch in order to score runs. Once the ball is put into play, the striker and the other batter, or non-striker, attempt to score runs by swapping places on the pitch. The fielding team then tries to prevent run scoring by “dismissing” the batters, so they are “out” and are said to have “lost their wicket.”

Means of dismissal include being bowled, when the bowled ball hits the stumps and dislodges the bails, and by the fielding side either catching a hit ball before it touches the ground, or hitting a wicket with the ball before a batter can cross the crease line in front of the wicket to complete a run.

Published July 06, 2022

Tampa Avengers fine leg fielder Saurav Sharma makes a catch of a cricket ball during a match at Wesley Chapel District Park, securing an out.
St. Pete Shields’ Mohammad Raz connects with his cricket bat during a match hosted by Tampa Premier League at Wesley Chapel District Park.
Tampa Avengers bowler Aneel Mohammad delivers a ball over the pitch during a match at Wesley Chapel District Park.

 

It’s all in the bag

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As long as the bags are flying, this league will continue to grow.

Chapel’s Baggers Cornhole League founder Jarrett Scheer. (Mike Camunas)

Because for Chapel’s Baggers Cornhole League, it’s all about giving players in Central Pasco a place to play.

“I mean, we only started about six months ago,” league founder and manager Jarrett Scheer, a Wesley Chapel resident, said. “We started with 32 players and now we have more than 60 at a tournament. Weekend tournaments do better, obviously, but the weekday tournaments — people are looking for something to do and go out — and those have great turnouts, as well.”

One very popular feature for this cornhole league is that it’s indoors. Given the heat and the rain, players are liking the competition that doesn’t have them in their backyards, sweating and being attacked by bugs.

“People don’t like the elements to affect their throws, so it’s nice and climate-controlled. The better players like it inside because that’s where they play the really big tournaments: inside,” Scheer added.

Scheer and fellow organizer, Jack Piety, host a weekly tournament, where players can win monetary prizes. Every Wednesday, the league sets up at Double Branch Brewing and Bites, at the Grove at Wesley Chapel. Scheer recognized the need for a cornhole league or group because he was tired of traveling a long way just to play.

“Honestly, (I just had to) get (the) name out there — you go and play tournaments, and you just get going with word of mouth and starting a Facebook group … because there was nothing in the Wesley Chapel or Land O’ Lakes area,” Scheer said. “Driving an hour or so to play a cornhole tournament wasn’t always the most fun thing to do.

Mike Forsythe, of Lutz, left, and Scott Lofmark go head-to-head in a cornhole match, one hosted by the newly-formed Chapel’s Baggers Cornhole League based out of Wesley Chapel.

“Double Branch is just a big space, and with the area there at the Grove at Wesley Chapel, (it) is just booming right now. … And so we get all walks of life that come and play. I even have an 11-year-old kid that comes and beats everyone — he’s pretty good. There are even a few 70-80-year-old players, too. Men, women, children, all skill levels — they just show up and play.”

Scheer welcomes all kinds of competition, to those just looking for fun or those who really are out for competitive play. However, to combat ringers coming in and running a tournament, especially as a two-person team, the tournaments will be Switcholio format.

This is a blind-draw, round-robin tournament, in which players get a new partner for every game and ranked on an individual basis. The organizer can use the leaderboard to recognize and reward top finishers, or seed them into a single elimination playoff.

More so, the league uses the Scoreholio app and site, which allows for live-time scoring. Players can view the leaderboard on a monitor Scheer sets up, as well as on their phones.

Bags lie in wait to be tossed during a Chapel’s Baggers Cornhole League event, at The Groves Golf and Country Club clubhouse in Land O’ Lakes. The league hosts several tournaments monthly, with monetary payouts to the winners and attendance growing with each outing.

That app has helped garner more players for the league.

“I’ve been playing a long time and just found people on there who told me about (this league),” said Brian Robinson, a Brandon resident who traveled to Land O’ Lakes to play in a tournament. “I just play to have some fun, maybe win some money, but this was a bunch of good people — good vibes,” said Robinson.

“I found it on Facebook,” said Howard Smith, a Lakeland resident who entered a tournament because he was staying with his girlfriend in nearby Lutz. “The tournaments are real cool and a great way to win some money. I like the competition — it’s different than just playing around in your backyard.”

“And,” Robinson added, “it’s gone from 30 to 60 people, so it’s definitely popular, definitely something people are looking for here. But hey, the more people, the better the payout (laughs).”

The league is getting players from all over, too. As far as Sarasota and Sebring, to name a few. Which Scheer is all on board for.

“So, I get people from all over the place and they’re like, ‘Oh, wow. I really like this place (Double Branch).’ So they come back or they even go to the other places at the Grove — it helps all the places in Wesley Chapel,” he said. “I hope we just keep getting bigger because I want to bring business to businesses that don’t usually get as much business.

“Just by playing a little cornhole.”

Chapel’s Baggers Cornhole League
Details: A league based out of Wesley Chapel, open to all ages. There are occasional tournaments on the weekends, but the league plays every Wednesday at Double Branch Brewing and Bites, at the Grove at Wesley Chapel. Tournament winners are awarded monetary prizes, paid for by fees to compete.
Info: Visit the league’s Facebook Group, at Facebook.com/groups/4369806859780455.

Published June 29, 2022

Kristin Allen, of Auburndale, lets a bag fly during a Switchholio tournament hosted by Chapel’s Baggers Cornhole League.
Chapel’s Baggers Cornhole League players can view live scoring on the Scoreholio app, which is helpful during tournaments, to see who they are playing next or how well they are doing.
Tyler Schenfield, left, and Matt Parker compete during a Chapel’s Baggers Cornhole League tournament, at The Groves Golf and Country Club clubhouse in Land O’ Lakes.
Shane Kneep, of Sarasota, is all smiles before he tosses during a Chapel’s Baggers Cornhole League tournament.
Mike Smith, of Ellenton, whispers to his bags to fly true as he competes in a match hosted by Chapel’s Baggers Cornhole League tournament.

Richard Fernandez, of Land O’ Lakes, left, and Gary Montemurro compete during a Chapel’s Baggers Cornhole League tournament, at The Groves Golf and Country Club clubhouse in Land O’ Lakes.

The strength of a mother

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If there’s anyone who knows what it’s like to exercise as a mother, and also while pregnant, it’s going to be Land O’ Lakes trainer Barb Ladimir.

She does, after all, have five kids.

“When you’re carrying a person, literally pushing on your abdomen, moving your pelvis, that’s going to put a strain on the back,” she said. “That’s why the program has you do it right, either during the whole nine months of the pregnancy or especially after the birth.”

Local trainer Barb Ladimir works with clients during a session of her Fitness 320 boot camps she hosts at varying locations in Land O’ Lakes. Ladimir, a mother of five, works with many women to help them get back into shape after giving birth. (Mike Camunas)

That’s why her fitness program, Fitness320, has different focuses to tackle certain types of aspects women will need, and eventually want, to get and remain healthy.

For starters, Ladimir hosts boot camps — group fitness classes for women.

The locations are in Pasco, but also are available in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.

The boot camps provide a safe space for women — usually mothers looking to get back in shape — that are not a gym atmosphere and provide more one-on-one training expertise.

“When you get to a group fitness class, you’re going to see like 95% women,” Ladimir said. “Husbands sometimes show up to work out, but we don’t just have random men show up. Which is fine, because women love group fitness, and this is for women and moms who lead busy lives and to do it with a community of friends.”

As a mother, Ladimir knows that not everyone should jump right back into a boot camp, especially soon after childbirth. That’s why she also is a Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist, and certified to work with pregnant women and recent moms. That prompted her to create her Strong as a Mother program that integrates some aspects into the boot camps, but goes beyond those to target women’s cores. This is to make sure that after nine months, more damage isn’t done to the abdomen and core.

“Will I get you back to CrossFit or to running a marathon? Yes, of course,” Ladimir said. “But you can’t go from childbirth to six weeks later trying to lift too much weight or running 13 miles. Nor should you. (The) Strong as a Mother program should be given to women as like a fourth trimester.

Trainer Barb Ladimir works with Land O’ Lakes resident Cynthia Soto during a boot camp session as Kristin Sicuranza, of Trinity, right, puts in the work. Ladimir’s boot camps, which are part of her Fitness 320 program, are geared toward women and moms who lead busy lives, but are looking to get healthy and stronger with a community of friends.

“Most of the women coming to my classes, they may not be brand new moms, but they are moms, they’ve had kids and, most likely, they didn’t take care of their bodies afterward. That’s why the fitness program ensures they don’t get hurt, but still build strength in a progressive way.”

Jenny Hassenfelt, a 50-year-old mom of six, said these programs helped her get in shape, not only the right way, but in the best way.

“(Strong as a Mother and the bootcamps) really emphasize form and technique,” Hassenfelt said. “This really breaks it down and you’re really learning correctly how to work the right muscles and to stretch out any problem areas.

“My abs were pretty much shot from six kids — I never thought I would get them back or they wouldn’t stay flat. But these programs taught me how to breath and hold the core. I tend to slouch a lot, so she yells at me for that, but my stomach is a lot flatter than I ever thought it would be after six kids. I’ve done a lot of other programs and never, ever saw the results that I have seen with her.”

Hassenfelt knows being a new mother can come with the desire to get back to being and feeling healthier. And, she said, that also can be a tough road.

“I think (the boot camps are a) great place to start,” she added. “And Strong as a Mother, for people who have injuries, that’s a really good place for them to start. Boot camp gets them back into the right program, while Strong as a Mother teaches basics slowly, so they don’t get injured again,” she said.

At the boot camps, Ladimir isn’t there to be drill sergeant or a cheerleader. She’s there to be a teacher, teaching women the proper way to get back in shape and to be strong mothers.

“With Fitness320, that’s not a fitness reference, but the Bible verse (Ephesians 3:20) that says, ‘He is able to do immeasurably more than anything we can ask or imagine according to the power that is within us,’” Ladimir said. “The programs show you how you have more power within, and it’s my job, as a coach, to bring that out in these women.

“If I can empower these women with fitness, then I’ve done my job.”

Barb Ladimir

Fitness320
Details: A total encompassing workout program that can include Intentional 21 dietary programming that reduces inflammation; boot camp works out, in-person and via Zoom; and Strong as a Mother: a core-specific strengthening program for new mothers.
Info: Visit fitness320.com.

Published June 22, 2022

Hockey club hosts 22 hours of play

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It was nonstop hockey and nonstop fun, all for a great cause.

The Tampa Warriors Hockey Club (TWHC) hosted its Hockey Heals 22 event at AdventHealth Center Ice beginning on June 10 and concluding on June 11.

Tampa Warriors Hockey Club poses with the Bloomingdale High School Ice Bulls following a game during the Hockey Heals 22 event at AdventHealth Center Ice, beginning on June 10 and concluding June 11. The event featured 22 hours of continuous hockey play to raise awareness and provide support to veteran suicide prevention, and raised about $15,000. (Courtesy of Chris Scangarello)

The event entailed 22 hours of continuous hockey play to raise awareness and provide support to veteran suicide prevention.

The 22 hours of play was chosen deliberately to draw attention to the fact that since 2009, the average daily number of veteran suicides has stood at 22.

It is estimated the event raised about $15,000, more than $4,000 above last year’s inaugural event.

“It went fantastic — we’re just absolutely thrilled with how it went this year,” said Chris Scangarello, TWHC’s executive director.

“We had exponentially more media coverage, which helped get the word out … and we even made it on the Jumbotron for Game 6 (of the Eastern Conference Finals between the New York Rangers and the Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena on Saturday night).”

The event kicked off with a “grand” opening ceremony that Scangarello said “had the stands pretty packed.”

He acknowledged that the crowd did shrink in size during the early morning hours, but added there were still “plenty of loved ones out there supporting those playing hockey at 3 a.m.”

From left to right: Delio Cevera, Lora Lopez, Chris Scangarello and Erik Hautly present a $2,500 check to StopSoldierSuicide.org, during the Hockey Heals 22 event at AdventHealth Center Ice beginning on June 10 and concluding on June 11.

“The turnout was definitely fantastic,” he said.

TWHC has already donated some of the monies raised, including $2,500 to StopSoldierSuicide.org, and a couple of $500 and $300 scholarships to local students, who are dependents of servicemen and plan on working with veterans through social programs.

Scangarello said an event like this is important, not just because it raises money to help others, but also because it draws attention to the issue of  veteran suicide.

The prevailing theory, Scangarello said, is that soldiers and veterans are meant to be strong, not show weakness. However, organizations, and even teams like TWHC, want to help change that perception and to support the notion that it’s OK to ask for help.

“We want to reduce that number from 22 a day. We want veterans to know they have a support network — to end that false stigma that (someone in the military) can’t be weak and can reach out for help,” he said.

He said he also hopes to attract more local charities and nonprofits that are dedicated to veterans and suicide prevention to get involved in next year’s Hockey Heals 22.

For more information on or how to donate to TWHC, visit TampaWarriors.com.

If you or a loved one are having suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-273-8255.

Published June 22, 2022

A hearty comeback

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Zephyrhills resident JohnE McCray has won on the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) Tour 13 times, including the 2016 Masters and 2018 U.S. Masters, both major wins, similar to professional golf. (MIKE CAMUNAS)

JohnE McCray was dead for 4 minutes.

This Zephyrhills resident and professional disc golf champion was out on the course on Feb. 5, even doing well at the Barnett Park Championships, in Orlando, but was in pain.

“I was warming up and just got this intense pain in my left arm,” the 50-year-old said. “Which I thought was weird because I throw with my right arm. … Through 10 holes, a local player came up to me and said,‘You’re already winning,’ and I was like, ‘Well, I feel like I’m dying!’”

McCray wasn’t too far off. The pain kept getting worse and after 11 holes, he sought out a doctor player in the group ahead of him. The doctor took one look at him and called an ambulance. Less than an hour later, he was at hospital and those attending him were getting a crash cart. He needed surgery right away and the medical staff told his wife, Jennifer McCray, this is your last chance to speak with him before surgery to put in three stents.

“The last thing I told him was, ‘You better fight. It’s time to fight,’” said his wife, who is also his disc golf caddie. “There I am, by myself, waiting for him at the hospital, not knowing if he could die. It was very traumatic.

“The whole (incident) was definitely on God’s timing.The doctor on the course, as well as a registered nurse, to get an ambulance there, with me running red lights following it — it all could’ve all gone differently.”

JohnE also had an automated internal cardiac defibrillator (AICD) inserted into his upper left chest. The state-of-the-art device is essentially a pacemaker with the ability to recognize abnormally fast cardiac rhythm and provide an immediate shock treatment. Once installed, JohnE was restricted in what he could do, as the device needed to set for 90 days.

He has been medically cleared to resume disc golf activities, which include throwing and building up his endurance through evening walks.

“I definitely feel better than I did months ago,” JohnE said recently. “Getting stronger and stronger every day, and working on getting back on the course.”

It definitely won’t be much longer before JohnE’s back out there. He’s already set to play in early July, as he trains on equipment from his sponsors in his backyard.

“(This is) absolutely a comeback. My husband is a fighter,” Jennifer said. “We’re a disc golf family, and his fans are always asking for updates and very supportive. I want him back (on the course). It’s his passion, it’s our passion, and I’m not sure what we’d do without disc golf.”

This wasn’t even the first time JohnE almost died.

JohnE McCray has several baskets, or disc golf holes, in his backyard, including a few from his main sponsor, Latitude 64, a massive disc golf store based in Sweden. (MIKE CAMUNAS)

He used to lay ceramic tile for a living, playing disc golf on the side. But about eight years ago, he contracted Lyme Disease, which burst into his blood stream and nearly killed him.

“I was in the hospital for two weeks,” he recalled.“I was in there longer for Lyme than I was for a heart attack!”

Not much later, JohnE went on the Professional Disc Golf Association Tour (PDGA) full time. In fact, he, Jennifer, their daughter and four cats decided to travel on tour, jumping in a RV and going from event to event. That’s when his play caught the eye of his major sponsor, Latitude 64, a disc golf manufacturer and store based out of Sweden.

“That was an amazing time,” Jennifer said.“ We met on the disc golf course, so I’ve always played, too, but just traveling around from course to course was amazing.”

JohnE picked up disc golf when he was a soccer player attending Saint Leo University, during the mid-1990s.

He’s had incredible success on the PDGA, where he’s won 13 times, including two majors, his first in 2016 and another, a Masters title, in 2018.

In fact, he kicked off this season in January by winning the 2021 Florida Disc Golf Championship, which was held at the course on Picnic Island Park in South Tampa. JohnE shot a course record 15 under, with a prize of $345.

So after months of being basically immobile and feeling weak, JohnE is ready for his prizefighter- style comeback.

“Definitely got some big plans (to get back on tour),” he added. “When (the heart attack happened), it was Saturday afternoon, and I woke up on Monday, but thought it was still Saturday. I’m like,‘Am I still going to be able to play tomorrow?’ and Jen was like, ‘Um, I don’t think so!’

“So, yeah, I’m really ready to get back out there on the course.”

Professional Disc Golf Association

Golf discs and a basket. (MIKE CAMUNAS)

The Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) is the governing body of professional disc golfers. Disc golf is played much like golf, though players use a flying disc instead of clubs or a ball. The sport was formalized in the 1970s and, like golf, players complete each hole in the fewest strokes or, in this case, throws. A golf disc is thrown from a tee area to a target, which is the “hole,” i.e., an elevated metal basket. Players must make consecutive throws from the spot where the previous throw landed. Once the “putt” lands in the bas- ket, the hole is completed.

INFO: Visit PDGA.com, and to learn more about JohnE McCray, visit JohnEMcCrayTour.com/johne or his Facebook page at Facebook.com/johnemccraytour.

To join the group to follow along on JohnE’s heart health and professional comeback, visit Facebook.com/groups/5001282929963039.

Published on June 8, 2022.