Soul still can’t find trust in quarterback

By SHAY RODDY

Managing Editor — sroddy@highhopesblog.com

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QB Ryan Vena and head coach Mike Hohensee at the Soul's practice on Market St. last Thursday.

There was no mistaking Philadelphia Soul head coach Mike Hohensee Wednesday when he said he has no trust in either of his quarterbacks.

Sitting at 6-2 and coming off an ugly 58-42 loss in which the Soul was simply unable to slow the attack of the Jacksonville Sharks, QB Ryan Vena got the nod when the Georgia Force came to town Friday night.

Special plaques help sick youngsters’ dreams come true

By SHAY RODDY

Managing Editor — sroddy@highhopesblog.com

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These plaques, available for $99, can help youngsters living with life-threatening illnesses' dreams come true.

There is no denying the potential for greatness each night at Citizens Bank Park. In a city where little matters more than its sports teams, we can’t contain the excitement of seeing four of baseball’s best pitchers go on back-to-back-to-back-to-back nights.

But now and then, we are all reminded that we spend our time and energy in the fun and games department of life.

Roddy: Let them play! Officials too prevalent in Game 2

By SHAY RODDY

Managing Editor — sroddy@highhopesblog.com

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Peter Laviolette was not happy with the tight game called by official Dan O'Rourke. (Shay Roddy/High Hopes)

When the Flyers win, all harm is forgotten. Most of the time anyway.

In a sloppy, shootout of a Game 2 in the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals, which the Flyers won by a score of 5-4, there was a stat that jumped off the sheet. And it wasn’t any of the 9 goals.

Soul finally home to raise banner

By SHAY RODDY

Managing Editor — sroddy@highhopesblog.com

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Only in Philadelphia would a team win a championship and then have to wait almost two years to raise their banner.

But due to lockouts and financial troubles, which have become increasingly prevalent in even the smallest of professional sports these days, the Philadelphia Soul, once headlined by their rockstar owner and legendary president, sat idle for an entire season, perhaps wondering if Friday night would ever come.

Flyers beginning to panic as another one slips away

By SHAY RODDY

Managing Editor — sroddy@highhopesblog.com

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Peter Laviolette, when you least expect it, is staying positive. But will his energy be enough to turn a room of baffled and discouraged Flyers around?

The Flyers have spent a lot of time lately talking about their level of play. Chris Pronger, Mike Richards, Peter Laviolette and whoever else may have emerged from the woodworking as a behind the scenes leader have been purposefully attempting to covey a message — it takes more than talent to win it all.

Blanton shouldn’t be overlooked in rotation

By SHAY RODDY

Managing Editor — sroddy@highhopesblog.com

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Joe Blanton may not belong at the same table as four aces, but let's not forget what Big Joe brings to the table. (Courtesy AP)

All of the hype out of Clearwater today was understandably about the Phillies four ace starters. The Phantastic Four, Mount Rushmore, R2C2 — whatever they’re being called — dominated the headlines.

 

Overlooked in all the hype surrounding the incredible return of Cliff Lee and the desperate stabs at putting such an overwhelming ensemble of talent into perspective is their number five guy.

Flyers improve lineup, land Versteeg in trade

By SHAY RODDY

Managing Editor — sroddy@highhopesblog.com

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The Flyers hope Kris Versteeg's championship experience will help them win a cup of their own. FILE

Just when you thought the league-leading Flyers couldn’t get much better, general manager Paul Holmgren pulled another surprise out of his sleeve.

Flyers not rushing to name number one goalie

By SHAY RODDY

Managing Editor — sroddy@highhopesblog.com

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The Flyers don't seem to be in any rush to break their platoon system and name a number one goalie. But as the playoffs loom, they're going to have to start making up their mind. (Courtesy AP)

VORHEES, N.J. — Things have been running smoothly on all fronts for the playoff bound Philadelphia Flyers. They’ve remained fairly healthy, proven to be the deepest team in the league, and continue to dominate both ends of the ice.

It’s safe to say the future is looking bright as the playoffs begin to creep closer.

Photo Gallery: WIP’s Wing Bowl 19

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Wingettes, eaters, entourages and more from SportsRadio 610 WIP’s Wing Bowl 19 at the Wells Fargo Center February 4, 2011.

All images copyright Shay Roddy/ High Hopes.

Interview: El Wingador back in it Friday at Wing Bowl

By SHAY RODDY

Managing Editor — sroddy@highhopesblog.com

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Commonly dubbed the greatest chicken wing eater in the world, El Wingador will jump back into the game this Friday at WIP's Wing Bowl 19.

This Friday marks what’s become, for better or worse, a landmark day in Philadelphia culture. 610 WIP will be hosting their annual Wing Bowl which is somewhat of a cross between a chicken wing eating contest, the Mummers parade and a stripper competition.