Cowboys started training camp with no depth at defensive end and it just got worse, Redskins got Stephen Bowen for 5-years, $27.5M with $12.5M guaranteed.
Cowboys did sign 1st-round draft pick, OT Tyron Smith to a 4-year, $12.5M contract.
Smoaky
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Cowboys Training Camp
Paul Catalina and I arrived in San Antonio on Wednesday night, went straight to the Alamodome this morning and already have secured audio from the first practice with Demarcus Ware, Dez Bryant, Tony Romo, Bradie James and DC Rob Ryan.
We'll have bits and pieces of reaction and working on a player interview for today's show.
Excited to be here in San Antonio and ready for some more football.
It's a great time with HS workouts starting on Monday and Baylor's workouts starting late next week.
Smoaky
We'll have bits and pieces of reaction and working on a player interview for today's show.
Excited to be here in San Antonio and ready for some more football.
It's a great time with HS workouts starting on Monday and Baylor's workouts starting late next week.
Smoaky
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Thank you Baylor Nation and Central Texas!!!
A year ago this weekend, I began packing some of my things for my trip to Central Texas to begin work at what was AM1660 ESPN (KRZI).
A year later, we're ESPN Radio-Central Texas with four frequencies, AM1660, 106.9FM, 101.3FM, and 100.9FM.
I want to thank everyone for such a wonderful year. "Most" everyone has accepted me with open arms and I will always remember the hospitality.
I've had a blast and I love it here. While I do have some options in front of me, I plan on signing a contract extension with M&M Broadcasters this week.
I want to thank each of you for your support and it's truly blown me away. As I mentioned during my first appearance a year ago, the foundation was built, I just wanted to build on that and perhaps change the culture and personality of the radio station.
I hope we've done that to your satisfaction.
As I look back on our last 52-weeks, I hope you don't mind me listing some of our accomplishments, knowing we cannot and will not settle and we will only do everything possible to get better.
When I arrived, I told our staff, "We need to get bigger, better, faster and stronger." I hope you think we've done that, so far.
I know not everyone likes the faster paced talk show and some don't like me, but I'm okay with that too.
I don't expect to please everyone. But, for those who don't like the faster paced show or me, I ask that you give me another chance and know that I hear, listen and read everything and take it to heart.
If I offended anyone since my arrival or just flat angered you for whatever reason, programming decisions, coverage, or opinions, I sincerely apologize. But, please understand that I go full throttle because I am a workaholic, a Type-A, driven person and then there's the A-D-D or A-D-H-D thing that sometimes is a positive or negative :)
I have fallen in love with Central Texas and I'm very fortunate to be in the broadcast business, I absolutely love my job. And, it's been an absolute blast covering a Division I athletic program.
As I've said from the beginning, you can email me anytime to smoaky@1660espn.com and I will always, ALWAYS respond. We have a link on the homepage, "The Good, The Bad and The Ugly" which is here http://www.1660espn.com/includes/news_items/1/news_items_more.php?id=691§ion_id=1.
As we approach my first year in Central Texas, here's a list of what we've done or tried to accomplish:
We've added the following broadcasts:
*2011 Midway Panther Football
*Dallas Cowboys Broadcasts
*Dallas Mavericks Broadcasts
*And, we actually host our talk show on Friday afternoon during football season. We that wasn't done before is beyond me, but we went 3pm-5pm last season, we're committed to 3pm-6pm this football season.
Interviews, Segments and Analysts:
*We interviewed 75 different Baylor athletes during the 2010-2011 school year.
*We interviewed 33 former Baylor athletes over the past twelve months.
*We also interviewed 18 current Baylor coaches during the 2010-2011 school year.
*We deleted the former website and added 1660espn.com. We added podcast links and streaming. Yes, I know we still haven't locked-in iTunes, but that will be available by the first week in August.
Our podcast link on 1660espn.com is here http://www.1660espn.com/podcasts/.
*I've tried to remain in touch with all of you on this website and three others who cover or discuss Baylor athletics.
*I've tried to promote each and every segment we do involving Baylor on Twitter and our guest lineup is always updated on the 1660espn.com homepage. http://www.1660espn.com/includes/news_items/1/news_items_more.php?id=585§ion_id=1
Special Events and Appearances:
*Texas Bowl in Houston and Cotton Bowl in Arlington.
*American Football Coaches Association Convention in Dallas.
*Super Bowl XLV in Dallas/Arlington.
*Cowboys Training Camp in San Antonio.
*Rangers Training Camp in Surprise, Arizona.
*Big 12 Men's and Women's Basketball Tournament in Kansas City, Missouri.
*We broadcast live from outside of the Ferrell Center and then spent the night in an RV in the parking lot to promote ESPN College Game-Day.
*NCAA Women's Regional Tournament in Dallas.
*NBA Finals, Games 3, 4, 5.
Segments and Analysis:
We've added the following analysts since June, 2010:
*Jennifer Floyd-Engel, Columnist, F.W. Star-Telegram (Monday, 3:25pm)
*Brad Sham, "Voice of the Cowboys" (Monday, 5:25pm during football season only)
*Tim MacMahon, ESPNDallas.com (Tuesday, 3:25pm)
*Ian McCaw, Baylor Director of Athletics (Tuesday, 4:10pm)
*Jay Ratliff, Cowboys Nose Tackle (Tuesday, 4:30pm during football season only)
*John McClain, Columnist, Houston Chronicle (Tuesday, 5:25pm)
*Central Texas Writer's Roundtable (Wednesday, 4:10pm). This went from one columnist from only the Waco Tribune-Herald to columnists and sportswriter's from the newspapers in Waco, Temple, and Killeen.
*"Where are they Now?" (Wednesday, 5:25pm during football season only)
*Mickey Spagnola, DallasCowboys.com (Thursday, 3:25pm)
*The Big 12 Hour (Thursday, 5:10pm during football season only)
*Art Briles, Baylor Football Coach (Monday, 4:10pm during football season only)
*We had almost weekly interviews with Scott Drew and Kim Mulkey and a handful with Steve Smith during their respective seasons.
*And, we plan on adding a Phil Bennett segment at a day and time to be announced sometime soon.
What's next for ESPN-Central Texas?
There are some plans I can't discuss at this time, but we are making more changes this coming football season, some subtle, some more obvious.
An example is completely renovating the 15-17 back-to-back high school football coaches segments on Friday afternoon. We'll not only have the 15-17 coaches interviews each week, but we're adding several coaches segments around Temple, Belton and Killeen. But, the biggest difference is spreading those segments throughout the week, not just one after another like they once did on Friday.
We're spreading those out throughout the week, probably 4-5 each day (Monday-Friday), much shorter interviews with Central Texas HS Football Coaches, but we hope more informative.
And, we're working on adding a brand-new Central Texas HS Football section on 1660espn.com. This section will include coaching staff information, program history (year-by-year results), and even all-time playoff appearances and state championship game appearances.
I mentioned the interest in adding a Phil Bennett segment this season, and we're also working a national college football writer or analyst sometime on Monday.
And, we began this last football season and we're going to do more Central Texas HS football player interviews this season.
We'll tighten things up a little bit during the show, but try and continue to keep you informed, entertained and involved.
Sponsorships or Sales:
Because of our great sponsors and our sales staff, ESPN Radio-Central Texas is up 69% in sales since July, 2010. But, we can always add new sponsors.
If you're interested in becoming involved as a sponsor with any our programming, segments or broadcasts, I will email you information upon request.
And, I'm still looking for a sponsor for our audio-streaming and podcast link.
We can customize a schedule to get you involved in our segments with Baylor coaches and athletes, our analyst segments, straight-up commercials, or "You Make The Call."
Thank you again for your time, interest and support and I hope to hear from you very soon, whether by email, in-person or by a call-in during our show.
David Smoak
Program Director
smoaky@1660espn.com
Happy Father's Day...
I am so fortunate to have the best father any man could ever want. My father, who is in his 80's and lives in Largo, Florida with our mother---has been the absolute best role model any son could ever hope for in his lifetime.
I've said this many times, but my father, not Richard Gere, should have starred in the movie, "An Officer and a Gentleman."
And, as a father of two, I'm blessed that my son (Craig) and daughter (Jennifer) are healthy and successful. I spoke with both of them today, and my wife of 29-years, Cindy and I'm very blessed.
I also called my father, mom and my oldest brother Robert, and I sure hope we can get down to Florida to see my side of the family very soon.
I called my father-in-law, Jim Jolly, who is up in Plano. He's been a great role model too and it was great to hear his voice. We used to spend Father's Day playing golf somewhere each year, but he's not quite able to get around like he used too. He keeps asking me for strokes when we play---I'm not that naive, he can still hit it well.
Two years ago, my Father's Day was not very good, in fact as I was trying to search for a few things in life, it was a miserable memory. Last year on Father's Day, I started packing up a U-Haul to bring a lot of my things to Waco to begin work here at ESPN Radio-Central Texas.
This year, I'm as happy as I've been as a husband, father, person and professional as I've been in a long, long time.
Life can take all of us through some difficult times, sometimes brutal times, and a lot of adversity, but in the end---you must fight through it and live and learn.
And, based on a conversation with our owner last week---we've truly only just begun at ESPN Radio-Central Texas.
Thank you to anyone and everyone who listens, even if for a second or two, or 5-10 minutes or all three hours (I wish), and send me your feedback, opinion(s), and suggestions.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
I've said this many times, but my father, not Richard Gere, should have starred in the movie, "An Officer and a Gentleman."
And, as a father of two, I'm blessed that my son (Craig) and daughter (Jennifer) are healthy and successful. I spoke with both of them today, and my wife of 29-years, Cindy and I'm very blessed.
I also called my father, mom and my oldest brother Robert, and I sure hope we can get down to Florida to see my side of the family very soon.
I called my father-in-law, Jim Jolly, who is up in Plano. He's been a great role model too and it was great to hear his voice. We used to spend Father's Day playing golf somewhere each year, but he's not quite able to get around like he used too. He keeps asking me for strokes when we play---I'm not that naive, he can still hit it well.
Two years ago, my Father's Day was not very good, in fact as I was trying to search for a few things in life, it was a miserable memory. Last year on Father's Day, I started packing up a U-Haul to bring a lot of my things to Waco to begin work here at ESPN Radio-Central Texas.
This year, I'm as happy as I've been as a husband, father, person and professional as I've been in a long, long time.
Life can take all of us through some difficult times, sometimes brutal times, and a lot of adversity, but in the end---you must fight through it and live and learn.
And, based on a conversation with our owner last week---we've truly only just begun at ESPN Radio-Central Texas.
Thank you to anyone and everyone who listens, even if for a second or two, or 5-10 minutes or all three hours (I wish), and send me your feedback, opinion(s), and suggestions.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Finishing up my first year in Central Texas
Wow, I just can't believe my first year in the Central Texas market is almost done. It was one year ago this week when I was offered a job as program director at AM1660 ESPN-Radio. I walked thru the doors at M&M Broadcasters in Waco on Tuesday, June 22nd.
So, next Wednesday, June 22nd will be one full year.
I have some decisions to make with over the next 2-3 months, but I have absolutely loved my time here in the Central Texas area.
I look back at what we've tried to accomplish from re-establishing audio-streaming to our website to attending and covering special events, most recently the NBA Finals (Games 3, 4, and 5).
We've been able to do a lot, but as I mentioned to my staff this morning, we've set a higher bar into the future. And, that includes programming, coverage and sales.
Our owner, Gary Moss of M&M Broadcasters, has set the table for us with all the bells and whistles, frequencies, translators, equipment and new building and studio(s).
And, based on what I know from my talks with Mr. Moss, we have more coming up and I can't wait to see it through.
Thank you to anyone who has listened to our show, thank you to anyone who has given me feedback on our show or what we're trying to do.
I hope we can meet our own expectations, but especially yours.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
So, next Wednesday, June 22nd will be one full year.
I have some decisions to make with over the next 2-3 months, but I have absolutely loved my time here in the Central Texas area.
I look back at what we've tried to accomplish from re-establishing audio-streaming to our website to attending and covering special events, most recently the NBA Finals (Games 3, 4, and 5).
We've been able to do a lot, but as I mentioned to my staff this morning, we've set a higher bar into the future. And, that includes programming, coverage and sales.
Our owner, Gary Moss of M&M Broadcasters, has set the table for us with all the bells and whistles, frequencies, translators, equipment and new building and studio(s).
And, based on what I know from my talks with Mr. Moss, we have more coming up and I can't wait to see it through.
Thank you to anyone who has listened to our show, thank you to anyone who has given me feedback on our show or what we're trying to do.
I hope we can meet our own expectations, but especially yours.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
NBA Finals and Summertime...
Paul Catalina and I are at Game 4 tonight in American Airlines Center in Dallas, we also had the chance to cover Game 3 on Sunday and we'll be here on Thursday for Game 5.
Mavericks entered tonight down 2-games to one, and trail by four after 3-quarters tonight.
We'll see if they can close it out and even the series.
But, being here reminds me of something I was told about Central Texas that I didn't believe for one minute, "Central Texas doesn't care about the NBA."
Really?
We've had as many calls the past month about the NBA Finals than anything else, including the Rangers, NFL Lockout or anything-Baylor.
I hope our mixture of covering events and appearances is what you want---and believe me, as I've mentioned before, we're only getting started.
Thank you for listening when you do and our great sponsors for supporting our product.
David Smoak
Mavericks entered tonight down 2-games to one, and trail by four after 3-quarters tonight.
We'll see if they can close it out and even the series.
But, being here reminds me of something I was told about Central Texas that I didn't believe for one minute, "Central Texas doesn't care about the NBA."
Really?
We've had as many calls the past month about the NBA Finals than anything else, including the Rangers, NFL Lockout or anything-Baylor.
I hope our mixture of covering events and appearances is what you want---and believe me, as I've mentioned before, we're only getting started.
Thank you for listening when you do and our great sponsors for supporting our product.
David Smoak
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
A night away...
from our first-ever Academic All-Stars banquet.
I've entered the names and sponsors on 1-2 occasions, but here are the numbers that blow me away.
Of the twenty Academic All-Stars, four of them are Valedictorians, six of them are Salutatorians.
The overall grade-point-average of all twenty All-Stars is 99.996 and the overall class ranking of all twenty All-Stars is fourth.
We have everything ready to go, just a matter of getting to 7:00pm on Wednesday night.
David Smoak
I've entered the names and sponsors on 1-2 occasions, but here are the numbers that blow me away.
Of the twenty Academic All-Stars, four of them are Valedictorians, six of them are Salutatorians.
The overall grade-point-average of all twenty All-Stars is 99.996 and the overall class ranking of all twenty All-Stars is fourth.
We have everything ready to go, just a matter of getting to 7:00pm on Wednesday night.
David Smoak
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Academic All-Stars Banquet is less than two weeks away...
Our promotions director, Casey Hartmann, is really doing a great job running our 1st-ever Academic All-Stars program.
We'll honor the 20 Academic All-Stars on Wednesday, May 25th, and we have a lot of work to do.
*Gathering all the information, logos and pictures for a Full-Page, Full-Color Ad
*Ordering the Plaques for the recipients
*Ordering roses for the female recipients and all the mothers
*Getting the checks from the Waco Foundation
*Finalizing all details for our guest speaker, Grant Teaff
*Producing our banquet program
*Seating chart for head table, All-Stars, sponsors, media, additional guests, and potential new sponsors
And, I'm sure there's something else I haven't thought about.
David Smoak
We'll honor the 20 Academic All-Stars on Wednesday, May 25th, and we have a lot of work to do.
*Gathering all the information, logos and pictures for a Full-Page, Full-Color Ad
*Ordering the Plaques for the recipients
*Ordering roses for the female recipients and all the mothers
*Getting the checks from the Waco Foundation
*Finalizing all details for our guest speaker, Grant Teaff
*Producing our banquet program
*Seating chart for head table, All-Stars, sponsors, media, additional guests, and potential new sponsors
And, I'm sure there's something else I haven't thought about.
David Smoak
An enjoyable Saturday...
I'm finishing up a very enjoyable weekend, 18-holes at Twin Rivers, grilled some shrimp and a rib-eye, Scalloped potatoes, and the weather has been really unbelievable.
I was playing really well, felt like everything was clicking, birdied 14, the long, downhill par 3 and was +5 thru 14. But, on a short, tight, par 4, 15th, I somehow just completely shanked a 3-iron off the tee box and my round only got worse.
I was so stunned by the shot, I lost complete concentration and finished, triple-bogey, par (sand save), triple-bogey and triple-bogey. I haven't had a triple-bogey in my previous 5-6 rounds this year.
I can understand hitting a poor shot, even a shank, that's why I'm only a 6-handicap, bad shots happen, but I haven't had a meltdown like this in some time. I was still fine after 15, had a nice up and down 16 for a par out of the sand, but damned if I didn't top my tee shot on the easy par 5 17th hole. Ridiculous.
Oh well, there's another 1:30pm tee-time on Sunday. I have really been peaking over the past 3-4 rounds, but still not quite able to finish a round. Hopefully, I can do that on Sunday afternoon at Twin Rivers.
David Smoak
I was playing really well, felt like everything was clicking, birdied 14, the long, downhill par 3 and was +5 thru 14. But, on a short, tight, par 4, 15th, I somehow just completely shanked a 3-iron off the tee box and my round only got worse.
I was so stunned by the shot, I lost complete concentration and finished, triple-bogey, par (sand save), triple-bogey and triple-bogey. I haven't had a triple-bogey in my previous 5-6 rounds this year.
I can understand hitting a poor shot, even a shank, that's why I'm only a 6-handicap, bad shots happen, but I haven't had a meltdown like this in some time. I was still fine after 15, had a nice up and down 16 for a par out of the sand, but damned if I didn't top my tee shot on the easy par 5 17th hole. Ridiculous.
Oh well, there's another 1:30pm tee-time on Sunday. I have really been peaking over the past 3-4 rounds, but still not quite able to finish a round. Hopefully, I can do that on Sunday afternoon at Twin Rivers.
David Smoak
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Here is our 2011 Academic All-Stars Team
2011 ACADEMIC ALL-STARS
WE ARE PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE 1ST-EVER ESPN RADIO-CENTRAL TEXAS “ACADEMIC ALL-STARS” TEAM.
TWENTY OF THE VERY BEST SENIOR STUDENT-ATHLETES WHO EXCEL IN ATHLETICS, BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY, ACADEMICS.
WE RECEIVED 100 NOMINATIONS FROM HIGH SCHOOLS THROUGHOUT CENTRAL TEXAS. AND WE’LL HONOR OUR ACADEMIC ALL-STARS AT A BANQUET ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 25TH AT THE TEXAS SPORTS HALL OF FAME.
FORMER BAYLOR HEAD FOOTBALL COACH AND THE EXECUTUVE DIRECTOR OF THE AMERICAN FOOTBALL COACHES ASSOCIATION GRANT TEAFF WILL BE OUR GUEST SPEAKER.
THERE ARE SO MANY GREAT STUDENT-ATHLETES THROUGHOUT CENTRAL TEXAS, AND HERE ARE SOME OF THE VERY BEST.
FEMALE ACADEMIC ALL-STARS:
BROOK BRASHEAR, CAMERON YOE H.S.
ALLISON SMITH, CRAWFORD H.S.
MARYAM KHAN, HARKER HEIGHTS H.S.
EMILY NEUBERT, MIDWAY H.S.
BRITTNEY FRAZIER, SALADO H.S.
KATE HARRISON, REICHER CATHOLIC H.S.
CALLIE CLUGSTON, RIESEL H.S.
LINDSAY FLOYD, GLEN ROSE H.S.
KAYLA HINES, ROBINSON H.S.
BRITTNY SCHWERTNER, JARRELL H.S.
MALE ACADEMIC ALL-STARS:
JAKE TALBERT, CRAWFORD H.S.
ARNOLD MARTINEZ, UNIVERSITY H.S.
TAYLOR BARNES, BOSQUEVILLE H.S.
ZACH TIMMONS, ROBINSON H.S.
NEIL RABROKER, ROSEBUD-LOTT H.S.
RYAN REKIETA, BREMOND H.S.
TYLER UNDERWOOD, LORENA H.S.
MICHAEL MARTIN, CHINA SPRING H.S.
GABE WAPLES, MART H.S.
JA’QUAIL HASKINS, KILLEEN H.S.
THE 1ST-EVER ESPN CENTRAL TEXAS ACADEMIC ALL-STARS TEAM IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
ALLEN SAMUELS, DODGE, CHRYSLER, JEEP, RAM
SOUTHWEST SPORTS MEDICINE
HILLCREST BABPTIST MEDICAL CENTER
FUDDRUCKERS
FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CENTRAL TEXAS
TARGET RESTORATION
COCA-COLA
LOCHRIDGE-PRIEST
AND ESPN RADIO-CENTRAL TEXAS
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN BECOMING A SPONSOR, DONOR OR CONTRIBUTOR TO THIS PROGRAM. PLEASE CONTACT DAVID SMOAK, PAUL CATALINA OR BUTCH HENRY.
DAVID SMOAK (smoaky@1660espn.com)
PAUL CATALINA (paul@1660espn.com)
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Academic All-Stars Team Selected
Our selection committee has spoken, and we'll announce the 1st-Annual Central Texas Academic All-Stars Team on Tuesday, May 3rd.
Special thanks to Casey Hartmann for her commitment and passion for this program. She's handled a lot of the tedious work in preparing the nomination process, contacting counselors, and working with our selection committee on the criteria and process.
We'll announce the twenty (20) member team during You Make The Call on Tuesday.
This program honors the elite student-athletes in Central Texas, student-athletes involved in extra-curricular activities, heavily involved in on-campus and community events and charitable organizations.
We'll honor these student-athletes on Wednesday, May 25th at 7:00pm at the Texas Sports Hall of Fame.
If you're interested in becoming a sponsor, donor or want tickets to attend the banquet, email me at your convenience.
David Smoak
Program Director
ESPN-Central Texas
Special thanks to Casey Hartmann for her commitment and passion for this program. She's handled a lot of the tedious work in preparing the nomination process, contacting counselors, and working with our selection committee on the criteria and process.
We'll announce the twenty (20) member team during You Make The Call on Tuesday.
This program honors the elite student-athletes in Central Texas, student-athletes involved in extra-curricular activities, heavily involved in on-campus and community events and charitable organizations.
We'll honor these student-athletes on Wednesday, May 25th at 7:00pm at the Texas Sports Hall of Fame.
If you're interested in becoming a sponsor, donor or want tickets to attend the banquet, email me at your convenience.
David Smoak
Program Director
ESPN-Central Texas
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Happy Easter, Family Love, Our gifted son Craig...
My wife of 29-years, Cindy, and our son, Craig, just left to drive back to Tyler. Our daughter, Jennifer, just left for her drive back to Plano.
Cindy and Craig have Monday off and will chill out and get some rest, Jennifer has to work first thing on Monday morning, as do I.
The four of us just had a memorable Easter Weekend, and I can't count the tears when they had to leave.
I miss all of them so much and we're as tight as a family as we've ever been. Although a person may be fortunate to have an endless number of friends, it's family that is everything. My family has been incredibly loyal through thick and thin, and I want to share a poem our son wrote on my Easter card.
You've heard me mention how incredibly talented and gifted he is---and even more so, what a caring young man he has always been.
Dad,
Pain comes with love,
Love comes with pain,
Things happen in life that we never can change,
We're better in forgiveness than we are estranged,
But, always having you here makes me know things will be okay,
I love you as a fighter, a father, a friend,
I'll stand toe to toe with you and battle til the end,
Sometimes in life things just aren't fair,
But the love our family shares can never be compared,
What happens will happen and their will be deal after deal,
Just know I truly love you forever and for real.
Happy Easter Dad.
Craig
Well, that says it all. I'm a very lucky husband and father.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
Cindy and Craig have Monday off and will chill out and get some rest, Jennifer has to work first thing on Monday morning, as do I.
The four of us just had a memorable Easter Weekend, and I can't count the tears when they had to leave.
I miss all of them so much and we're as tight as a family as we've ever been. Although a person may be fortunate to have an endless number of friends, it's family that is everything. My family has been incredibly loyal through thick and thin, and I want to share a poem our son wrote on my Easter card.
You've heard me mention how incredibly talented and gifted he is---and even more so, what a caring young man he has always been.
Dad,
Pain comes with love,
Love comes with pain,
Things happen in life that we never can change,
We're better in forgiveness than we are estranged,
But, always having you here makes me know things will be okay,
I love you as a fighter, a father, a friend,
I'll stand toe to toe with you and battle til the end,
Sometimes in life things just aren't fair,
But the love our family shares can never be compared,
What happens will happen and their will be deal after deal,
Just know I truly love you forever and for real.
Happy Easter Dad.
Craig
Well, that says it all. I'm a very lucky husband and father.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Rangers, Texas Open, Melissa Jones, Perry Jones III
Let's start with the Rangers, currently 9-3 after losing their last two in Detroit, both in the bottom of the ninth-inning. Still a nice start and you get everything you can because who knows when Josh Hamilton might be out again? Well, he is, injuring his shoulder sliding home on a tag on a foul pop. Hamilton threw 3B coach Dave Anderson under the bus, horrible timing and just not sure what he was thinking, but frustration from the injury influenced an otherwise a pretty smart kid.
I was watching the first-round highlights from the Valero Texas Open and noticed Kevin Na got an unthinkable "16" on the Par 4, 9th-Hole. I wondered how that was possible until two things, one---I watched the highlights and his meltdown, and then I recalled a round I played at the very same course last summer covering Cowboys Training Camp. I came away from that round thinking I'd just played the most difficult course I've ever been on.
Kim Mulkey announced on Thursday night senior Melissa Jones will have an award named after her and no one will ever again wear Jersey #5, nice touch.
And, speaking of nice touch, the Perry Jones III Retribution Tour began on Monday afternoon when the freshman from Duncanville announced he'll return for his sophomore season at Baylor. Everyone immediately starting thinking about his impact on the men's basketball team in 2011-2012, I immediately thought his decision was a big middle finger to the NCAA. That's "MY" opinion, not Perry's, at least I don't think :)
David Smoak
I was watching the first-round highlights from the Valero Texas Open and noticed Kevin Na got an unthinkable "16" on the Par 4, 9th-Hole. I wondered how that was possible until two things, one---I watched the highlights and his meltdown, and then I recalled a round I played at the very same course last summer covering Cowboys Training Camp. I came away from that round thinking I'd just played the most difficult course I've ever been on.
Kim Mulkey announced on Thursday night senior Melissa Jones will have an award named after her and no one will ever again wear Jersey #5, nice touch.
And, speaking of nice touch, the Perry Jones III Retribution Tour began on Monday afternoon when the freshman from Duncanville announced he'll return for his sophomore season at Baylor. Everyone immediately starting thinking about his impact on the men's basketball team in 2011-2012, I immediately thought his decision was a big middle finger to the NCAA. That's "MY" opinion, not Perry's, at least I don't think :)
David Smoak
Thursday, April 7, 2011
The Masters @ Augusta National
Just watched extended coverage of The Masters on ESPN. Alviro Quiros and Rory McIlroy are two young studs, and they grabbed the first-round lead with -7 65.
Phil Mickelson's short game was tremendous and he pulled out a -2 70, Tiger Woods shot -1, 71, still amazed he has "NEVER" broken 70 in an opening round at Augusta National.
I just love watching The Masters, and maybe, if the weather holds up, I'll finally get a chance to play a round on Saturday morning, get home, relax, sit back and watch the third-round on TV.
David Smoak
Phil Mickelson's short game was tremendous and he pulled out a -2 70, Tiger Woods shot -1, 71, still amazed he has "NEVER" broken 70 in an opening round at Augusta National.
I just love watching The Masters, and maybe, if the weather holds up, I'll finally get a chance to play a round on Saturday morning, get home, relax, sit back and watch the third-round on TV.
David Smoak
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
A wonderful experience on Fort lHood
Paul Catalina, Terry Tacker, Casey Hartmann and I woke up bright-and-early on Tuesday and drove to Fort Hood for an appearance at their Equipment and Technological Expo.
We interview vendors who he design, build and produce material and equipment that will help our great soldiers become bigger, better, faster, lighter, stronger and smarter.
God Bless Our Troops and everyone who has ever served or is serving to protect our freedom.
We finished up the remote at noon and Sgt. Joe Radcliffe took us to lunch a short tour of the base.
Paul, Terry and Casey stayed in Killeen for another appearance at Fuddruckers in Killeen, while I drove up I-35 to attend the NCAA Women's Regional Final between Texas A&M and Baylor at the American Airlines Center.
It's Round IV between these two really good teams, with Baylor winning the first three.
David Smoak
We interview vendors who he design, build and produce material and equipment that will help our great soldiers become bigger, better, faster, lighter, stronger and smarter.
God Bless Our Troops and everyone who has ever served or is serving to protect our freedom.
We finished up the remote at noon and Sgt. Joe Radcliffe took us to lunch a short tour of the base.
Paul, Terry and Casey stayed in Killeen for another appearance at Fuddruckers in Killeen, while I drove up I-35 to attend the NCAA Women's Regional Final between Texas A&M and Baylor at the American Airlines Center.
It's Round IV between these two really good teams, with Baylor winning the first three.
David Smoak
Sunday, March 27, 2011
NCAA Women's Regional Semifinals in Dallas
Paul Catalina and I landed in Austin just after midnight on Sunday morning following our trip to Rangers Training Camp in Arizona.
I got just enough sleep to be dangerous, cooked a nice breakfast for a change and headed up I-35 for the NCAA Women's Regional Semifinals at the American Airlines Arena.
Texas A&M crushed Georgia in the first game and we're just under 9-minutes into the second half and Baylor leads Wisconsin-Green Bay, 57-49.
If Baylor wins, we'll have a fourth Texas A&M-Baylor showdown.
Baylor won the first three in knockdown drag-out fashion. #4 won't be any different.
David Smoak
I got just enough sleep to be dangerous, cooked a nice breakfast for a change and headed up I-35 for the NCAA Women's Regional Semifinals at the American Airlines Arena.
Texas A&M crushed Georgia in the first game and we're just under 9-minutes into the second half and Baylor leads Wisconsin-Green Bay, 57-49.
If Baylor wins, we'll have a fourth Texas A&M-Baylor showdown.
Baylor won the first three in knockdown drag-out fashion. #4 won't be any different.
David Smoak
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Surprise, Surprise...Arizona
Paul Catalina and I in our second day at Rangers Training Camp in Surprise, Arizona.
Now. This. Is. Work.
MLB Training Camp.
We're currently watching the Padres vs. Rangers at Surprise Stadium, been a long, but productive day.
We basically got through Wednesday on fumes and adrenalin after literally NO SLEEP following the Lady Bears win against West Virginia on Tuesday night. But, hey--someone has to do this job, right?
Wouldn't want it any other way.
We were so tired after the show on Wednesday, we left the stadium, checked into our hotel, went to PF Chang's (where else did you think we were going?) and then crashed before the sun was down in Arizona.
We didn't wake up until 6:30am on Thursday.
But, we were rested thank goodness and went straight to the Rangers Clubhouse for interviews.
We secured a recorded interview with Ian Kinsler and Derek Holland. We spoke with Holland before the Rangers actually announced their starting rotation and he didn't even know at the time he was included.
Problem is---Tommy Hunter strained his groin pitching against the Reds and now the Rangers are searching for a short-term solution until Hunter is back.
Meanwhile, we also had veteran lefty Darren Oliver drop by the booth and come on live with us this afternoon.
We're LOADED for Friday's show (our last here in Surprise) with the following guests that we know of and working on others.
*Ron Washington, Rangers Manager
*Jon Daniels, Rangers General Manager
*Ian Kinsler, Rangers Second Baseman
*Jamey Newberg, The Newberg Report
Paul and I are also working on getting Melissa Jones or a Lady Bears player for Friday's show before they leave for the Dallas Regional. We normally would have been at their Media Session today, but couldn't make it due to our coverage here in Arizona.
Rangers and Padres are 4-4 into the top of the 7th, we'll wait around for the conclusion and then head to the Clubhouse and get another piece of audio or so.
We'll be right back in the Clubhouse first thing on Friday morning around 8:00am. I brought my golf clubs, might try and hit the links after Friday's show.
You turn around and can run into a golf course. There's one right down the street, well--there are a couple of dozen shows right down the street from the ballpark.
It might be time to hit the little white ball on Friday afternoon.
Thanks for listening when and if you do!
David Smoak
Now. This. Is. Work.
MLB Training Camp.
We're currently watching the Padres vs. Rangers at Surprise Stadium, been a long, but productive day.
We basically got through Wednesday on fumes and adrenalin after literally NO SLEEP following the Lady Bears win against West Virginia on Tuesday night. But, hey--someone has to do this job, right?
Wouldn't want it any other way.
We were so tired after the show on Wednesday, we left the stadium, checked into our hotel, went to PF Chang's (where else did you think we were going?) and then crashed before the sun was down in Arizona.
We didn't wake up until 6:30am on Thursday.
But, we were rested thank goodness and went straight to the Rangers Clubhouse for interviews.
We secured a recorded interview with Ian Kinsler and Derek Holland. We spoke with Holland before the Rangers actually announced their starting rotation and he didn't even know at the time he was included.
Problem is---Tommy Hunter strained his groin pitching against the Reds and now the Rangers are searching for a short-term solution until Hunter is back.
Meanwhile, we also had veteran lefty Darren Oliver drop by the booth and come on live with us this afternoon.
We're LOADED for Friday's show (our last here in Surprise) with the following guests that we know of and working on others.
*Ron Washington, Rangers Manager
*Jon Daniels, Rangers General Manager
*Ian Kinsler, Rangers Second Baseman
*Jamey Newberg, The Newberg Report
Paul and I are also working on getting Melissa Jones or a Lady Bears player for Friday's show before they leave for the Dallas Regional. We normally would have been at their Media Session today, but couldn't make it due to our coverage here in Arizona.
Rangers and Padres are 4-4 into the top of the 7th, we'll wait around for the conclusion and then head to the Clubhouse and get another piece of audio or so.
We'll be right back in the Clubhouse first thing on Friday morning around 8:00am. I brought my golf clubs, might try and hit the links after Friday's show.
You turn around and can run into a golf course. There's one right down the street, well--there are a couple of dozen shows right down the street from the ballpark.
It might be time to hit the little white ball on Friday afternoon.
Thanks for listening when and if you do!
David Smoak
Monday, March 21, 2011
H.S. Football Broadcast Programming Announcement
We added Midway High School football to our group for the 2011 season. We also acquired the rights to broadcast additional Midway sporting events based on our programming schedule.
We're excited about the acquisition of Midway football and I want to thank AD Randy Weisinger and head football coach Terry Gambill for their professionalism throughout the negotiating process.
We also have the rights to Robinson, China Spring and Copperas Cove, and we're looking at adding more between now and late-August.
A lot of what we do in placing a program on any frequency is what frequencies and signals we have available.
We do plan on broadcasting high school football on AM1660, 101.3FM, 100.9FM, 106.9FM, Mix929 and eventually, AM1590.
David Smoak
We're excited about the acquisition of Midway football and I want to thank AD Randy Weisinger and head football coach Terry Gambill for their professionalism throughout the negotiating process.
We also have the rights to Robinson, China Spring and Copperas Cove, and we're looking at adding more between now and late-August.
A lot of what we do in placing a program on any frequency is what frequencies and signals we have available.
We do plan on broadcasting high school football on AM1660, 101.3FM, 100.9FM, 106.9FM, Mix929 and eventually, AM1590.
David Smoak
Sunday, March 20, 2011
What a nice weekend...
I'm sitting at court-side at the NCAA Women's National Tournament, 1st-Round game about to tip between Baylor and Prairie View A&M. West Virginia just advanced past Houston and will play the winner on Tuesday night here at the Ferrell Center.
It's been a great weekend, Cindy came in from Tyler, we relaxed and then went out a little bit on Saturday night.
But, we just enjoyed some time together, and of course with Jennifer's dog, "Oreo," who is always the star of the show.
Oreo is so fun to be with--never stops, always wants some loving and I'm always willing to give it to her. Cindy left mid-afternoon to go back to Tyler, Jennifer is on her way back from the coast and I'm at the Ferrell Center. Craig is in Tyler, enjoyed a quiet weekend himself.
I got a little antsy with wanting to play a round of golf, but not yet time--I will try and sneak out and play a round while in Arizona later this week.
Paul Catalina and I leave for Rangers Training Camp bright-and-early on Wednesday morning and will return on Sunday, March 27th.
David Smoak
It's been a great weekend, Cindy came in from Tyler, we relaxed and then went out a little bit on Saturday night.
But, we just enjoyed some time together, and of course with Jennifer's dog, "Oreo," who is always the star of the show.
Oreo is so fun to be with--never stops, always wants some loving and I'm always willing to give it to her. Cindy left mid-afternoon to go back to Tyler, Jennifer is on her way back from the coast and I'm at the Ferrell Center. Craig is in Tyler, enjoyed a quiet weekend himself.
I got a little antsy with wanting to play a round of golf, but not yet time--I will try and sneak out and play a round while in Arizona later this week.
Paul Catalina and I leave for Rangers Training Camp bright-and-early on Wednesday morning and will return on Sunday, March 27th.
David Smoak
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Playing catch-up again...
You'd think something so simple at updating a daily or weekly blog would be easy. Well, it should be and I apologize for not updating much of late.
It's late on Thursday night, the first night of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament and I went 6-2 in the first 8-games, not sure about tonight's results, but not bad...but like every year, my bracket will be a mess by this time Friday night (if not earlier).
I love the NCAA Tournament...obviously, it's one of the great single-day's in sports each year. I'll take the opening day of the Masters golf tournament. I used to think the same thing for the opening day of MLB when so many games were played during the afternoon on a Monday---but that's changed with so many opening games being spread out with television coverage.
Well, Paul Catalina and I returned from our week covering the Big 12 Basketball Tournament's in Kansas City, and throughout the entire trip...and even now, I'm still fighting this cough.
I saw my doctor on Monday, he prescribed Z-Pac and steroids and Codeine cough syrup. Everything has worked by the Codeine-laced cough syrup. I couldn't wait to try it the first night back (Monday), but I've been wired after taking it every night. I haven't had more than 2-3 hours sleep in any one night for 2-weeks, and I'm not whining, just updating my blog.
I'm taking straight-up NyQuil in about 20-minutes. But, I have a 6:15am wake-up call for our special show on Friday morning in Temple. We're on 8:00am-11:00am tomorrow morning (like we were today) because our regular hours are blown out with the NCAA tournament games.
I didn't want us to lose the daily revenue during our show and we not only saved the revenue with the special morning shows, we added sponsorship dollars from Automax Hyundai-Temple.
I think we beat everyone to the dealership this morning, but we took a ton of calls and Paul and I had a great time with some topics and discussion. Also, had a nice chunk of people come by and register to win a nice group of prizes.
We're back at it in the morning. I hope, after the NyQuil that I hear my alarm clock. If I don't, that's okay--means I actually got some good sleep.
Our amazingly talented son, Craig, turned 27 this week, continues to co-host his sports talk show in Tyler. So proud of him.
Our fiercely committed daughter, Jennifer turns 24 in early-April, she dropped by my place on Tuesday evening, brought her (my) dog, Oreo, a black and white border collie and Oreo and I are "running buddies." She's so damn smart it's hilarious.
We had dogs when I was younger, our family had everything, dogs, cats, birds, ducks, fish, you name it, we had it. Sometimes the cats enjoyed some of the "pets" as treats, but we just replaced them. But, after getting married to Cindy, we just never had a dog...always cats...cats are cool, they complain on occasion but would rather you not bother them, unless they're hungry or just sucked on catnip.
Thinking back at it, we did have a dog for less than a week back in the mid-80's, but it didn't last long, it was a black lab and we gave it to a friend who had a big ranch...good decision for the dog.
Okay, I'm watching the end of the UCLA-Michigan State game, UCLA was rolling, but not trying to hang-on, up just one with :04.4 left. UCLA at the free throw line. I didn't realize this until the tip, but these proud basketball programs have never met during the NCAA Tournament, hard to believe.
Cindy is driving to town on Friday night to spend a couple of days, looking forward to that...although I think she wants to see Oreo more than me (and Jennifer when she comes back through on Sunday) :)
I think Craig and his girl, Mandee might even drive down, and that would be awesome.
Baylor Lady Bears start their march towards an possible NCAA Championship on Sunday at home, I'll be there for the coverage on Sunday evening. If they win, and they should, they'll also host a game on Tuesday in Waco.
Paul Catalina and I are headed to Rangers Training Camp on Wednesday morning for 5-6 days covering baseball spring training. That's about as relaxed as it gets. Looking forward to getting some fresh air--hope my cough is over by then, might take the sticks and play a round of three of golf. At least, I hope so.
We're trying to keep March busy with basketball and so much more. It's been a great month for us and so many people at our station have contributed.
I continue to be amazed by our camaraderie and so proud of the effort, commitment and professionalism.
We're finishing up the 1st-Quarter of 2011 with a lot of momentum, now we need to sustain it through April-June. If we can somehow sustain the momentum in April, May, and June...I can't wait for what we can do during the football season.
Oh, we're about to make a major announcement involving our 2011 high school football coverage on Monday of next week.
Stay tuned and thank you for listening when and if you do.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
It's late on Thursday night, the first night of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament and I went 6-2 in the first 8-games, not sure about tonight's results, but not bad...but like every year, my bracket will be a mess by this time Friday night (if not earlier).
I love the NCAA Tournament...obviously, it's one of the great single-day's in sports each year. I'll take the opening day of the Masters golf tournament. I used to think the same thing for the opening day of MLB when so many games were played during the afternoon on a Monday---but that's changed with so many opening games being spread out with television coverage.
Well, Paul Catalina and I returned from our week covering the Big 12 Basketball Tournament's in Kansas City, and throughout the entire trip...and even now, I'm still fighting this cough.
I saw my doctor on Monday, he prescribed Z-Pac and steroids and Codeine cough syrup. Everything has worked by the Codeine-laced cough syrup. I couldn't wait to try it the first night back (Monday), but I've been wired after taking it every night. I haven't had more than 2-3 hours sleep in any one night for 2-weeks, and I'm not whining, just updating my blog.
I'm taking straight-up NyQuil in about 20-minutes. But, I have a 6:15am wake-up call for our special show on Friday morning in Temple. We're on 8:00am-11:00am tomorrow morning (like we were today) because our regular hours are blown out with the NCAA tournament games.
I didn't want us to lose the daily revenue during our show and we not only saved the revenue with the special morning shows, we added sponsorship dollars from Automax Hyundai-Temple.
I think we beat everyone to the dealership this morning, but we took a ton of calls and Paul and I had a great time with some topics and discussion. Also, had a nice chunk of people come by and register to win a nice group of prizes.
We're back at it in the morning. I hope, after the NyQuil that I hear my alarm clock. If I don't, that's okay--means I actually got some good sleep.
Our amazingly talented son, Craig, turned 27 this week, continues to co-host his sports talk show in Tyler. So proud of him.
Our fiercely committed daughter, Jennifer turns 24 in early-April, she dropped by my place on Tuesday evening, brought her (my) dog, Oreo, a black and white border collie and Oreo and I are "running buddies." She's so damn smart it's hilarious.
We had dogs when I was younger, our family had everything, dogs, cats, birds, ducks, fish, you name it, we had it. Sometimes the cats enjoyed some of the "pets" as treats, but we just replaced them. But, after getting married to Cindy, we just never had a dog...always cats...cats are cool, they complain on occasion but would rather you not bother them, unless they're hungry or just sucked on catnip.
Thinking back at it, we did have a dog for less than a week back in the mid-80's, but it didn't last long, it was a black lab and we gave it to a friend who had a big ranch...good decision for the dog.
Okay, I'm watching the end of the UCLA-Michigan State game, UCLA was rolling, but not trying to hang-on, up just one with :04.4 left. UCLA at the free throw line. I didn't realize this until the tip, but these proud basketball programs have never met during the NCAA Tournament, hard to believe.
Cindy is driving to town on Friday night to spend a couple of days, looking forward to that...although I think she wants to see Oreo more than me (and Jennifer when she comes back through on Sunday) :)
I think Craig and his girl, Mandee might even drive down, and that would be awesome.
Baylor Lady Bears start their march towards an possible NCAA Championship on Sunday at home, I'll be there for the coverage on Sunday evening. If they win, and they should, they'll also host a game on Tuesday in Waco.
Paul Catalina and I are headed to Rangers Training Camp on Wednesday morning for 5-6 days covering baseball spring training. That's about as relaxed as it gets. Looking forward to getting some fresh air--hope my cough is over by then, might take the sticks and play a round of three of golf. At least, I hope so.
We're trying to keep March busy with basketball and so much more. It's been a great month for us and so many people at our station have contributed.
I continue to be amazed by our camaraderie and so proud of the effort, commitment and professionalism.
We're finishing up the 1st-Quarter of 2011 with a lot of momentum, now we need to sustain it through April-June. If we can somehow sustain the momentum in April, May, and June...I can't wait for what we can do during the football season.
Oh, we're about to make a major announcement involving our 2011 high school football coverage on Monday of next week.
Stay tuned and thank you for listening when and if you do.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
Sunday, March 13, 2011
I can't wait to get back to Kansas City...
I'd been looking forward to our trip to cover the Big 12 Men's and Women's Basketball Tournaments, and I enjoyed the games and tournaments.
I just wish I'd felt better. I caught a pretty bad head cold following our ESPN College Game-Day weekend and here I am, nine days later and I'm still coughing constantly, battling a stuffy nose, an earache and sore throat.
I've tried everything and special thanks to folks within the Baylor athletic department for trying to help with some medicine.
I have coughed almost non-stop for 8-9 days, some days worse than others, and here I am on Sunday night and battling you guessed it, a nagging cough.
I will go and see my doctor here in Waco, Dr. Hinds, sometime on Monday. I had a throat culture done before I left and everything came back negative. But, something is strange because I've taken Advil Cold & Sinus, NyQuil, DayQuil, Advil, Lozenges, Mucinex, anything and everything and I'm right back at square one.
I actually feel better today than I have in a week, but the constant coughing has just worn down my throat and I'm not sure if I'll be on the air for another day or two. That in itself is very frustrating.
We'll have a lot to digest this week, including Baylor missing out on the NIT, man...from the Elite 8 to nothing. I know every program would want any post-season tournament but perhaps this season needs to end, "now."
The Lady Bears captured the regular season and conference championships and they'll get a #1 seed and host the first two rounds in Waco and most likely play their third and fourth round games in Dallas. They have a watch party set for 5:00pm on Monday and we'll try and get Coach Mulkey on our show sometime between 3pm-6pm.
We've launched our NCAA Bracket Madness promotion, YOU picking the NCAA Tournament and my goal is 300 entries. Right now, without any promotion, we're only at 15, but we'll pound away at this for the next 2-3 days. I "NEVER" do well at these brackets, NEVER. But, I'll fill it out like I always do and watch is disintegrate right before my very own eyes.
Baylor football resumes their spring drills and we'll dive back into that as well this week.
I need a quiet week, and we should get that with some appearances, but being back home is great.
Paul Catalina and I leave for Rangers Training Camp a week from Wednesday and we're looking forward to that, was hoping Butch would come just for the golf, but he has some family plans. I think he'd love Arizona with the baseball and golf and we'll work on him this week.
So, our week in Kansas City is over, and because I couldn't enjoy it like I wanted--I can't wait for next year.
David Smoak
I just wish I'd felt better. I caught a pretty bad head cold following our ESPN College Game-Day weekend and here I am, nine days later and I'm still coughing constantly, battling a stuffy nose, an earache and sore throat.
I've tried everything and special thanks to folks within the Baylor athletic department for trying to help with some medicine.
I have coughed almost non-stop for 8-9 days, some days worse than others, and here I am on Sunday night and battling you guessed it, a nagging cough.
I will go and see my doctor here in Waco, Dr. Hinds, sometime on Monday. I had a throat culture done before I left and everything came back negative. But, something is strange because I've taken Advil Cold & Sinus, NyQuil, DayQuil, Advil, Lozenges, Mucinex, anything and everything and I'm right back at square one.
I actually feel better today than I have in a week, but the constant coughing has just worn down my throat and I'm not sure if I'll be on the air for another day or two. That in itself is very frustrating.
We'll have a lot to digest this week, including Baylor missing out on the NIT, man...from the Elite 8 to nothing. I know every program would want any post-season tournament but perhaps this season needs to end, "now."
The Lady Bears captured the regular season and conference championships and they'll get a #1 seed and host the first two rounds in Waco and most likely play their third and fourth round games in Dallas. They have a watch party set for 5:00pm on Monday and we'll try and get Coach Mulkey on our show sometime between 3pm-6pm.
We've launched our NCAA Bracket Madness promotion, YOU picking the NCAA Tournament and my goal is 300 entries. Right now, without any promotion, we're only at 15, but we'll pound away at this for the next 2-3 days. I "NEVER" do well at these brackets, NEVER. But, I'll fill it out like I always do and watch is disintegrate right before my very own eyes.
Baylor football resumes their spring drills and we'll dive back into that as well this week.
I need a quiet week, and we should get that with some appearances, but being back home is great.
Paul Catalina and I leave for Rangers Training Camp a week from Wednesday and we're looking forward to that, was hoping Butch would come just for the golf, but he has some family plans. I think he'd love Arizona with the baseball and golf and we'll work on him this week.
So, our week in Kansas City is over, and because I couldn't enjoy it like I wanted--I can't wait for next year.
David Smoak
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Trying to summarize the past week...
I'm sitting here inside the Parsons Roofing 40' RV, otherwise known as our ESPN Radio-Central Texas Luxury Suite.
We've been broadcasting and spending the past 36-hours inside of this RV counting down the ESPN College Game Day and Saturday night's Texas @ Baylor game.
I'd like to start by thanking Baylor University for their unprecedented access to their campus and events this week. As I've said many times, I don't know what relationship our station had with Baylor before I arrived in late-June, but I do know the response we are receiving from throughout Baylor Athletics has been tremendous.
The month of March should fly by with the Big 12 Tournaments next week in Kansas City, whatever we do with the NCAA Tournaments, Rangers Training Camp in late-March in Surprise, Arizona, and perhaps the NCAA Women's Final Four the first week in April.
Our sales staff has aced the sponsorships in putting us in position to not only cover these events, but cover our expenses and add to an already record-breaking March.
We will continue to push to get better...
I received an email asking me why we decided to cover the ESPN College Game Day with an appearance in an RV outside of the Ferrell Center. I responded, "why not?"
We'd other be in the studio or another appearance on Friday, so why not start the countdown to the ESPN College Game Day show? It only made sense and now, sitting here inside the RV, mid-afternoon on Saturday, I can't think of much else we could have done. We had a couple of gremlins in the system "outside of what anyone heard on the air," and we react to both with ease.
I'll go ahead and answer another email question, "Why did you decide to broadcast live on Saturday morning leading up to College Game Day."
Again, "Why not?" Butch, Paul and I thoroughly enjoyed the setting and atmosphere.
We had ESPN's Rece Davis and Jay Bilas on Friday's show...and we were still able to cover the local high school and college post-season tournaments.
I'd like to thank a few people in particular for the past week's access at Baylor, including Ian McCaw, Nick Joos, Chris Yandle, John Garrison, Diane Jee, Jordan Barker, Kevin Huffine, Tom Hill, Drew Pittman, and Scott Drew.
There are many more who were involved, but those are the people who I had the direct contact with at some point.
One story about Friday night...Coach Drew stopped by our RV on Friday for a live interview and then I didn't think we'd see him again until perhaps Saturday morning. Well, as a pretty good group of us were enjoying the tailgating on Friday night, here comes Coach Drew---with a large aluminum pan of Crazy Wings from George's. He spoke with us for about 15-20 minutes and went home to the family and I'm sure to watch more video on Texas.
And, speaking of food, I'd like to also thank Fuddruckers, Rudy's and Hooters for their donation to helping feed about a hundred students who stayed around the Parsons Roofing RV on Friday afternoon.
Right now, there's about 50-80 people coming and going right outside of our tailgate location.
Mike Dewey did another nice job of coordinating the area with Baylor University. Mike loves to tailgate, he loves to have a good time, and he is really trying to start a tradition of great tailgating at Baylor sporting events.
I just received an email from ESPN Radio in Bristol, and they've asked me to live updates during tonight's UT-Baylor game. That sounds great and all, but because of the setup inside the Ferrell Center, I have to do the updates from inside the media room about 1-2 times and hour...so I'll have to walk away from the live action a few times.
Oh well, enough for now, Paul and I just met inside the RV to discuss our upcoming trip to Kansas City...just one of many things we're doing this month---and very excited about it all.
Thank you for reading this blog if you do, and listening to our show when and if you do.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
We've been broadcasting and spending the past 36-hours inside of this RV counting down the ESPN College Game Day and Saturday night's Texas @ Baylor game.
I'd like to start by thanking Baylor University for their unprecedented access to their campus and events this week. As I've said many times, I don't know what relationship our station had with Baylor before I arrived in late-June, but I do know the response we are receiving from throughout Baylor Athletics has been tremendous.
The month of March should fly by with the Big 12 Tournaments next week in Kansas City, whatever we do with the NCAA Tournaments, Rangers Training Camp in late-March in Surprise, Arizona, and perhaps the NCAA Women's Final Four the first week in April.
Our sales staff has aced the sponsorships in putting us in position to not only cover these events, but cover our expenses and add to an already record-breaking March.
We will continue to push to get better...
I received an email asking me why we decided to cover the ESPN College Game Day with an appearance in an RV outside of the Ferrell Center. I responded, "why not?"
We'd other be in the studio or another appearance on Friday, so why not start the countdown to the ESPN College Game Day show? It only made sense and now, sitting here inside the RV, mid-afternoon on Saturday, I can't think of much else we could have done. We had a couple of gremlins in the system "outside of what anyone heard on the air," and we react to both with ease.
I'll go ahead and answer another email question, "Why did you decide to broadcast live on Saturday morning leading up to College Game Day."
Again, "Why not?" Butch, Paul and I thoroughly enjoyed the setting and atmosphere.
We had ESPN's Rece Davis and Jay Bilas on Friday's show...and we were still able to cover the local high school and college post-season tournaments.
I'd like to thank a few people in particular for the past week's access at Baylor, including Ian McCaw, Nick Joos, Chris Yandle, John Garrison, Diane Jee, Jordan Barker, Kevin Huffine, Tom Hill, Drew Pittman, and Scott Drew.
There are many more who were involved, but those are the people who I had the direct contact with at some point.
One story about Friday night...Coach Drew stopped by our RV on Friday for a live interview and then I didn't think we'd see him again until perhaps Saturday morning. Well, as a pretty good group of us were enjoying the tailgating on Friday night, here comes Coach Drew---with a large aluminum pan of Crazy Wings from George's. He spoke with us for about 15-20 minutes and went home to the family and I'm sure to watch more video on Texas.
And, speaking of food, I'd like to also thank Fuddruckers, Rudy's and Hooters for their donation to helping feed about a hundred students who stayed around the Parsons Roofing RV on Friday afternoon.
Right now, there's about 50-80 people coming and going right outside of our tailgate location.
Mike Dewey did another nice job of coordinating the area with Baylor University. Mike loves to tailgate, he loves to have a good time, and he is really trying to start a tradition of great tailgating at Baylor sporting events.
I just received an email from ESPN Radio in Bristol, and they've asked me to live updates during tonight's UT-Baylor game. That sounds great and all, but because of the setup inside the Ferrell Center, I have to do the updates from inside the media room about 1-2 times and hour...so I'll have to walk away from the live action a few times.
Oh well, enough for now, Paul and I just met inside the RV to discuss our upcoming trip to Kansas City...just one of many things we're doing this month---and very excited about it all.
Thank you for reading this blog if you do, and listening to our show when and if you do.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
Monday, February 28, 2011
An update or ten about ESPN Radio-Central Texas
We finished February up 61% in sales and we're entering March 52% up from where we ended March, 2010. And, we're going to be awfully busy and mobile in March.
*Weekend coverage of ESPN College Game-Day.
*Big 12 Men's and Women's Basketball Tournament
*Rangers Training Camp in Surprise, Arizona
*NCAA Women's Final Four in Indianapolis, Indiana (Tentative)
And, this doesn't include covering the Baylor Bears football team and spring drills and girls and boys high school basketball state playoffs. The Fairfield girls are the lone Central Texas team at the Girls State Tournament this weekend in Austin.
A couple of local nuggets from the weekend.
*Harker Heights OT Camrhon Hughes gave a verbal commitment to Texas.
*Former Killeen Ellison star Tommie Harris was released by the Chicago Bears. He'll find a new home depending on when free agency continues, which won't be until after a new Collective Bargaining Agreement--and who knows when that will be?
We hosted our first show of the year from Hooters, great atmosphere but we had a technical issue off the top of the show and had some terrible audio for the first 2-3 minutes. That's frustrating and we'll figure out what went wrong on Tuesday morning, but special thanks to Zach Burke for somehow finding the issue(s) and working them out.
We're back at Hooters on Tuesday, Tilted Kilt in Killeen on Wednesday.
We're preparing for the College Game-Day weekend and our use of a 40' by a lot RV for our show on Friday and throughout the day on Saturday. This RV is a monster and we will be all over College Game Day this weekend. While I use the term preparing, I think "bracing" is more what Paul Catalina is doing...
I have him petrified of what to expect. He's young, he'll get over it.
Special thanks to Baylor University and Baylor Athletics for allowing us to think outside the box on how to promote and cover the event.
Well, I have to make a presentation early-Tuesday at a sales meeting so it's time to try and get a little decent sleep.
Oh, by the way, I had fallen asleep and completely out of nowhere I woke up in all but a cold sweat realizing I hadn't sent off a payment for a loan that was due last week. There's a grace period, so we'll be fine---but what made me think of this completely out of the blue, while sound asleep?
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
*Weekend coverage of ESPN College Game-Day.
*Big 12 Men's and Women's Basketball Tournament
*Rangers Training Camp in Surprise, Arizona
*NCAA Women's Final Four in Indianapolis, Indiana (Tentative)
And, this doesn't include covering the Baylor Bears football team and spring drills and girls and boys high school basketball state playoffs. The Fairfield girls are the lone Central Texas team at the Girls State Tournament this weekend in Austin.
A couple of local nuggets from the weekend.
*Harker Heights OT Camrhon Hughes gave a verbal commitment to Texas.
*Former Killeen Ellison star Tommie Harris was released by the Chicago Bears. He'll find a new home depending on when free agency continues, which won't be until after a new Collective Bargaining Agreement--and who knows when that will be?
We hosted our first show of the year from Hooters, great atmosphere but we had a technical issue off the top of the show and had some terrible audio for the first 2-3 minutes. That's frustrating and we'll figure out what went wrong on Tuesday morning, but special thanks to Zach Burke for somehow finding the issue(s) and working them out.
We're back at Hooters on Tuesday, Tilted Kilt in Killeen on Wednesday.
We're preparing for the College Game-Day weekend and our use of a 40' by a lot RV for our show on Friday and throughout the day on Saturday. This RV is a monster and we will be all over College Game Day this weekend. While I use the term preparing, I think "bracing" is more what Paul Catalina is doing...
I have him petrified of what to expect. He's young, he'll get over it.
Special thanks to Baylor University and Baylor Athletics for allowing us to think outside the box on how to promote and cover the event.
Well, I have to make a presentation early-Tuesday at a sales meeting so it's time to try and get a little decent sleep.
Oh, by the way, I had fallen asleep and completely out of nowhere I woke up in all but a cold sweat realizing I hadn't sent off a payment for a loan that was due last week. There's a grace period, so we'll be fine---but what made me think of this completely out of the blue, while sound asleep?
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Busy week ahead...
We're headed into a very busy week and that's the way we like it.
We'll spend all week trying to prepare and plan for our ESPN College Game-Day weekend coverage, including using an RV for a variety of reasons, hosting our show, tailgating, perhaps even spending the night outside the Ferrell Center.
We're live at Hooter's on Monday and Tuesday, live from Tilted Kilt in Killeen on Wednesday.
Hey, someone has to do this job.
I think we're in-studio on Thursday, I'm sure that will change.
Friday, it's wall-to-wall craziness with the ESPN College Game-Day coverage.
This week is busy, but next week is too...
We'll start with our show at Hooter's again (Monday) and then off to the Big 12 Men's and Women's Basketball Tournaments in Kansas City, Missouri.
David Smoak
We'll spend all week trying to prepare and plan for our ESPN College Game-Day weekend coverage, including using an RV for a variety of reasons, hosting our show, tailgating, perhaps even spending the night outside the Ferrell Center.
We're live at Hooter's on Monday and Tuesday, live from Tilted Kilt in Killeen on Wednesday.
Hey, someone has to do this job.
I think we're in-studio on Thursday, I'm sure that will change.
Friday, it's wall-to-wall craziness with the ESPN College Game-Day coverage.
This week is busy, but next week is too...
We'll start with our show at Hooter's again (Monday) and then off to the Big 12 Men's and Women's Basketball Tournaments in Kansas City, Missouri.
David Smoak
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Butch and Paul think I'm nuts, they may be right...
ESPN College Game-Day is a little over a week away and we're working on how we'll cover the event.
We'll broadcast "You Make The Call" on Friday, March 4th somewhere outside of the Ferrell Center and either inside or right outside of an RV. We'll have it all dialed-in, tailgating, the show, Smoaky, Paul and Butch, right?
Well, Paul and Butch are trying to convince ownership I've lost it, hey--I could have told them that...but we are going to broadcast on that Friday afternoon, enjoy it, and we're spending the night because we are "LIVE" the next morning at 7:00am. Yep, 7:00am, not 10:00am or Noon, 7-A-M!
Why not broadcast on the morning leading up to ESPN's College Game-Day?
Why not broadcast on the evening before ESPN's College Game-Day?
Why not spend the night because we won't be off the air long in between our Friday show and Saturday's special hours?
Butch gets a pass on our little "Slumber Party"---but Paul, he's staying with us in the RV.
Now, who is "us?" Not sure yet, Paul, me, and 1-2 others who might be as crazy as me.
Fuddruckers will give the first 50 people who drop by the show a free certificate for a 1/3rd pound hamburger...and they're supplying a little food that afternoon too. We'll have t-shirts, food, soft drinks, beverages, and of course, we'll talk a little sports too.
Butch will be involved both days, although I think he's still negotiating an extra vacation day or two---and that's okay, I've never counted hours or vacation days, he deserves them.
So, if you're bored and don't have anything else to do on Friday afternoon, March 4th. Drop by the Ferrell Center and see if I'm in a straight-jacket or a robe.
Smoaky
We'll broadcast "You Make The Call" on Friday, March 4th somewhere outside of the Ferrell Center and either inside or right outside of an RV. We'll have it all dialed-in, tailgating, the show, Smoaky, Paul and Butch, right?
Well, Paul and Butch are trying to convince ownership I've lost it, hey--I could have told them that...but we are going to broadcast on that Friday afternoon, enjoy it, and we're spending the night because we are "LIVE" the next morning at 7:00am. Yep, 7:00am, not 10:00am or Noon, 7-A-M!
Why not broadcast on the morning leading up to ESPN's College Game-Day?
Why not broadcast on the evening before ESPN's College Game-Day?
Why not spend the night because we won't be off the air long in between our Friday show and Saturday's special hours?
Butch gets a pass on our little "Slumber Party"---but Paul, he's staying with us in the RV.
Now, who is "us?" Not sure yet, Paul, me, and 1-2 others who might be as crazy as me.
Fuddruckers will give the first 50 people who drop by the show a free certificate for a 1/3rd pound hamburger...and they're supplying a little food that afternoon too. We'll have t-shirts, food, soft drinks, beverages, and of course, we'll talk a little sports too.
Butch will be involved both days, although I think he's still negotiating an extra vacation day or two---and that's okay, I've never counted hours or vacation days, he deserves them.
So, if you're bored and don't have anything else to do on Friday afternoon, March 4th. Drop by the Ferrell Center and see if I'm in a straight-jacket or a robe.
Smoaky
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Did I really hear Lace Dunn say, "They wanted it more than us tonight?"
I was in the post-game press conference following Baylor's 9-point loss to Texas Tech.
You could sense the tremendous disappointment in the voice and words of head coach Scott Drew.
Going into that game, I felt (along with probably many others) the Bears HAD to win no less than 3 of their last 5 games to become NCAA Tournament eligible. In my opinion, 9-7 in the Big 12 would get them.
Well, now the Bears are on NCAA Tourney life-support after Saturday night's loss. Now, they must win three of their last four, and those four include, @ Missouri, vs. Texas, @ Oklahoma State, vs. Texas A&M. They going to win three of those four?
Where? It's going to be difficult and losing to Tech, an under .500 team makes me wonder if they won't have to sweep the final four regular season games.
But, back to the post-game press conference.
I interviewed Lace Dunn following Tuesday's win against Wayland Baptist and asked him, "When does your team realize the clock is ticking on their chances?" He responded with, "We have to start playing better." I responded with, "But haven't you guys been saying that for over a month?"
I can answer for Dunn and his teammates, "Yes."
But, following their loss to Tech, I heard Dunn say, "They (Tech) wanted this more than we did tonight."
Huh?
How can that be possible?
How can a team knowing their NCAA Tournament lives depend on a win, allow a sub-.500 team to beat them and control the game after the first 2-3 minutes?
I think, "they wanted it more than we did," is a cop out and Dunn isn't the only player whose ever said it.
It's become an any-player or coach or media or fan cop out line.
We'll discuss this more in-depth on Monday's show.
Have a great weekend everyone!
David Smoak
You could sense the tremendous disappointment in the voice and words of head coach Scott Drew.
Going into that game, I felt (along with probably many others) the Bears HAD to win no less than 3 of their last 5 games to become NCAA Tournament eligible. In my opinion, 9-7 in the Big 12 would get them.
Well, now the Bears are on NCAA Tourney life-support after Saturday night's loss. Now, they must win three of their last four, and those four include, @ Missouri, vs. Texas, @ Oklahoma State, vs. Texas A&M. They going to win three of those four?
Where? It's going to be difficult and losing to Tech, an under .500 team makes me wonder if they won't have to sweep the final four regular season games.
But, back to the post-game press conference.
I interviewed Lace Dunn following Tuesday's win against Wayland Baptist and asked him, "When does your team realize the clock is ticking on their chances?" He responded with, "We have to start playing better." I responded with, "But haven't you guys been saying that for over a month?"
I can answer for Dunn and his teammates, "Yes."
But, following their loss to Tech, I heard Dunn say, "They (Tech) wanted this more than we did tonight."
Huh?
How can that be possible?
How can a team knowing their NCAA Tournament lives depend on a win, allow a sub-.500 team to beat them and control the game after the first 2-3 minutes?
I think, "they wanted it more than we did," is a cop out and Dunn isn't the only player whose ever said it.
It's become an any-player or coach or media or fan cop out line.
We'll discuss this more in-depth on Monday's show.
Have a great weekend everyone!
David Smoak
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Our own version of "March Mad-mania"
We are approaching one fun month with our programming and coverage.
We have tremendous plans for March, including coverage of the following events:
*ESPN College Game-Day @ Baylor University: We'll not only broadcast the Friday afternoon before at the Ferrell Center, but host a special 7:00am-9:00am "You Make The Call" the morning of College Game-Day.
*Big 12 Men's and Women's Basketball Tournaments (Kansas City, Missouri): We'll broadcast live from the Media Hotel in downtown Kansas City as we cover the Bears and Lady Bears.
*NCAA Men's and Women's Basketball Tournaments (Everywhere, USA): The Lady Bears will host the women's 1st and 2nd round games in Waco, and we'll be all over their run to the championship. ESPN Radio-Central Texas is also the home for every single game of the NCAA Men's Tournament and the Women's Final Four (along with whatever games involving the Bears and Lady Bears).
*Rangers Training Camp in Surprise, Arizona: We'll broadcast live from Rangers Camp and bring back the atmosphere with interviews and the great "crack of the bat, pop of the mitt, and fresh cut grass." We'll be there for 3-4 days to accumulate audio for our time there and the following week. The regular season opener is April 1st against the Red Sox, and unless I'm wrong (brain cells aren't what they used to be)---this is the first time ever in my lifetime that MLB has started a season at the end of the week and not on a Sunday night or Monday afternoon, or in some cases for some teams a Tuesday. There might have been one or two years when a season started somewhere early like with the NFL, but I don't remember.
*NCAA Women's Final Four (Indianapolis, Indiana): Depending on Baylor's run to a national title, ESPN Radio-Central Texas will be live mixed in with our game broadcasts of the Lady Bears if they become eligible for the Final Four.
And, this doesn't include some of our other appearances throughout Central Texas.
Our sales staff hit the streets with our sponsorship packages on Wednesday and we have some work to do, but based on the energy and pacing from the past 7-months, we'll be in good shape. I think I mentioned this in an earlier post, but our sales are up 61% in February and there's still just under two weeks remaining. But, this month is almost done so we have a lot of work to do in March and into the future.
In between all this action, I'm working on a quick trip to try and see my mom and dad and three brothers in Tampa, Florida area. My mother had the illness she fought through during the fall and she's back home and finishing up her rehab so I'm headed down there later in the month. I can't wait to see my parents and my three brothers, relax for a weekend, smoke a few cigars on my father's back porch and catch-up on some good memories.
I hope everyone is doing well, and thanks for listening or reading when and if you do.
Thank you.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
We have tremendous plans for March, including coverage of the following events:
*ESPN College Game-Day @ Baylor University: We'll not only broadcast the Friday afternoon before at the Ferrell Center, but host a special 7:00am-9:00am "You Make The Call" the morning of College Game-Day.
*Big 12 Men's and Women's Basketball Tournaments (Kansas City, Missouri): We'll broadcast live from the Media Hotel in downtown Kansas City as we cover the Bears and Lady Bears.
*NCAA Men's and Women's Basketball Tournaments (Everywhere, USA): The Lady Bears will host the women's 1st and 2nd round games in Waco, and we'll be all over their run to the championship. ESPN Radio-Central Texas is also the home for every single game of the NCAA Men's Tournament and the Women's Final Four (along with whatever games involving the Bears and Lady Bears).
*Rangers Training Camp in Surprise, Arizona: We'll broadcast live from Rangers Camp and bring back the atmosphere with interviews and the great "crack of the bat, pop of the mitt, and fresh cut grass." We'll be there for 3-4 days to accumulate audio for our time there and the following week. The regular season opener is April 1st against the Red Sox, and unless I'm wrong (brain cells aren't what they used to be)---this is the first time ever in my lifetime that MLB has started a season at the end of the week and not on a Sunday night or Monday afternoon, or in some cases for some teams a Tuesday. There might have been one or two years when a season started somewhere early like with the NFL, but I don't remember.
*NCAA Women's Final Four (Indianapolis, Indiana): Depending on Baylor's run to a national title, ESPN Radio-Central Texas will be live mixed in with our game broadcasts of the Lady Bears if they become eligible for the Final Four.
And, this doesn't include some of our other appearances throughout Central Texas.
Our sales staff hit the streets with our sponsorship packages on Wednesday and we have some work to do, but based on the energy and pacing from the past 7-months, we'll be in good shape. I think I mentioned this in an earlier post, but our sales are up 61% in February and there's still just under two weeks remaining. But, this month is almost done so we have a lot of work to do in March and into the future.
In between all this action, I'm working on a quick trip to try and see my mom and dad and three brothers in Tampa, Florida area. My mother had the illness she fought through during the fall and she's back home and finishing up her rehab so I'm headed down there later in the month. I can't wait to see my parents and my three brothers, relax for a weekend, smoke a few cigars on my father's back porch and catch-up on some good memories.
I hope everyone is doing well, and thanks for listening or reading when and if you do.
Thank you.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
Friday, February 11, 2011
The word is spreading, 1660ESPN Radio is ESPN Radio-Central Texas
I first met our owner, Gary Moss, for lunch at a restaurant in Cleburne where he owns other radio stations. We drove from Cleburne to Waco to visit 1660ESPN Radio in Waco and we talked about everything, goals, sales opportunities, and life.
He told me on that late-June day, "I want you to build a regional giant, including Waco and other places we're about to invade with new frequencies."
I asked him if he'd let me "run" and make decisions that worked in a similar duel-market like Tyler/Longview and even Lufkin/Nacogdoches.
Very simply he said, "Yes."
I will give you all the tools you need and let's take care of Waco and then move on to Killeen/Fort Hood and keep growing.
Well, that's what we're trying to do, 1660ESPN Radio is now ESPN Radio-Central Texas and we have other goals in other cities. But, we're focused on greater-Central Texas right now.
You'll always hear me say we have work to do, and we do---but we're slowly but surely finding our niche throughout the area, not just Waco.
We've constantly hosted our show or game broadcasts from Waco, Temple, Killeen, and tonight in Lorena.
We've been in Lorena before for the HS Football game between Lorena and China Spring.
But, that was football...we're continuing commitment to some high school basketball. We're blocked out from any games the week of February 14th-20th because of previous programming commitments with Baylor. But, we'll be back the week after with some playoff games.
It's been another great week, new sponsors, pretty good guests, meeting more and more of the great people in Central Texas.
Thank you for listening when and if you do, and have a great weekend.
David Smoak
He told me on that late-June day, "I want you to build a regional giant, including Waco and other places we're about to invade with new frequencies."
I asked him if he'd let me "run" and make decisions that worked in a similar duel-market like Tyler/Longview and even Lufkin/Nacogdoches.
Very simply he said, "Yes."
I will give you all the tools you need and let's take care of Waco and then move on to Killeen/Fort Hood and keep growing.
Well, that's what we're trying to do, 1660ESPN Radio is now ESPN Radio-Central Texas and we have other goals in other cities. But, we're focused on greater-Central Texas right now.
You'll always hear me say we have work to do, and we do---but we're slowly but surely finding our niche throughout the area, not just Waco.
We've constantly hosted our show or game broadcasts from Waco, Temple, Killeen, and tonight in Lorena.
We've been in Lorena before for the HS Football game between Lorena and China Spring.
But, that was football...we're continuing commitment to some high school basketball. We're blocked out from any games the week of February 14th-20th because of previous programming commitments with Baylor. But, we'll be back the week after with some playoff games.
It's been another great week, new sponsors, pretty good guests, meeting more and more of the great people in Central Texas.
Thank you for listening when and if you do, and have a great weekend.
David Smoak
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Decompressing from our trip to cover Super Bowl XLV
This week has absolutely flown by, which is unusual following a week at the Super Bowl.
I returned from my 18th trip to the Super Bowl and the following week has always "dragged on" like a bad hangover.
Not this week, we came back on Monday and went straight to covering the Texas Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, there was our high school basketball game on Tuesday night between Midway and University High....and tonight, I'm at the Nebraska @ Baylor men's basketball game at the Ferrell Center.
Thursday is the day I release the All-Smoaky.com H.S. Football Team so I'll be up pretty late tonight getting that done.
We have an appearance in Temple at Automax Hyundai on Friday and then our broadcast of La Vega @ Lorena for the District Championship in 19-3A.
And, the momentum continues with our sales as we added a couple of brand-new clients this week.
I appreciate those of you who have responded to our Super Bowl coverage from a week ago. It's a special week for us to cover it, but also fun to try and bring back the atmosphere from Radio Row.
We're already working on how to improve our coverage of Super Bowl XLVI in Indianapolis next year.
Smoaky
I returned from my 18th trip to the Super Bowl and the following week has always "dragged on" like a bad hangover.
Not this week, we came back on Monday and went straight to covering the Texas Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, there was our high school basketball game on Tuesday night between Midway and University High....and tonight, I'm at the Nebraska @ Baylor men's basketball game at the Ferrell Center.
Thursday is the day I release the All-Smoaky.com H.S. Football Team so I'll be up pretty late tonight getting that done.
We have an appearance in Temple at Automax Hyundai on Friday and then our broadcast of La Vega @ Lorena for the District Championship in 19-3A.
And, the momentum continues with our sales as we added a couple of brand-new clients this week.
I appreciate those of you who have responded to our Super Bowl coverage from a week ago. It's a special week for us to cover it, but also fun to try and bring back the atmosphere from Radio Row.
We're already working on how to improve our coverage of Super Bowl XLVI in Indianapolis next year.
Smoaky
Sunday, February 6, 2011
In the end, "Jerry's World" shines...
Despite the issues with the wintry weather and Seat-Gate, "Jerry's World" put on a show.
Congratulations to the Packers, their fourth Super Bowl Championship, aptly named "Lombardi Trophy" to Titletown, USA.
I thoroughly enjoyed our week in Dallas/Fort Worth, had an incredible week at Radio Row and a tremendous game.
David Smoak
Congratulations to the Packers, their fourth Super Bowl Championship, aptly named "Lombardi Trophy" to Titletown, USA.
I thoroughly enjoyed our week in Dallas/Fort Worth, had an incredible week at Radio Row and a tremendous game.
David Smoak
Super Bowl XLV Sunday
Paul, Zach and I are here at the Media Compound inside Cowboys Stadium, several hours before kickoff.
We have our own little talk show going to David Wilkinson from KCEN and Ricardo LeCompt and Dan Ingham from KWTX, just talking pregame and even Baylor basketball.
Hey, we need to talk about something to kill 3-4 hours.
My prediction, Packers 24 Steelers 20.
David Smoak
We have our own little talk show going to David Wilkinson from KCEN and Ricardo LeCompt and Dan Ingham from KWTX, just talking pregame and even Baylor basketball.
Hey, we need to talk about something to kill 3-4 hours.
My prediction, Packers 24 Steelers 20.
David Smoak
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Super Bowl XLV (Saturday)
Cindy and I just returned from the first phase of the Leigh Steinberg Party a few blocks away.
They raise a tremendous amount of money for charities, including Wounded Warriors.
We saw a lot of celebrities in attendance, but heck, we've seen those all week on Radio Row. Serena Williams, the tennis star made a brief appearance.
We're headed to the Pro Football Hall of Fame announcement for the Class of 2011 at 6:00pm, and then headed to a couple of parties later tonight.
I've learned a valuable lesson over the years covering the Super Bowl. Despite the temptations of all the parties on Saturday night, DON'T OVERDO IT. Because, the shuttles start taking us to the stadium by mid-morning and the earlier you get there the better because of security. And, it's a long day from pregame, game and then reaction in postgame---and shuttle back to hotel.
Not complaining, just a little sense of learning curve.
David Smoak
They raise a tremendous amount of money for charities, including Wounded Warriors.
We saw a lot of celebrities in attendance, but heck, we've seen those all week on Radio Row. Serena Williams, the tennis star made a brief appearance.
We're headed to the Pro Football Hall of Fame announcement for the Class of 2011 at 6:00pm, and then headed to a couple of parties later tonight.
I've learned a valuable lesson over the years covering the Super Bowl. Despite the temptations of all the parties on Saturday night, DON'T OVERDO IT. Because, the shuttles start taking us to the stadium by mid-morning and the earlier you get there the better because of security. And, it's a long day from pregame, game and then reaction in postgame---and shuttle back to hotel.
Not complaining, just a little sense of learning curve.
David Smoak
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Super Bowl XLV Day V
We just wrapped-up our Thursday show, and another day of success.
Mike Ditka, Drew Pearson, Deacon Jones, Jay Ratliff, Terence Newman, Thomas Everett, Rick Gosselin, and Mean Joe Greene.
My staff busted their butts for our station today and they have been all week.
But, despite the great day we had---and the day we're set to have on Friday---office politics took center stage. I'm amazed at how selfish some people can be...
We've had people busting their tails all week for the radio station--as they should be--and being at NFL Media Headquarters and Radio Row and covering the Super Bowl isn't a cocktail party, it's not a frat or sorority party---it's hard work.
But, I love it, I'll always love it and I am fortunate to be involved in the business.
As I've said many times, I get paid to talk about something I love, sports, athletics, games, scores, teams, players, fans, and I will always appreciate it.
I have never-ever complained about not being invited to an event in my 30-years in the business.
David Smoak I would've responded in so many ways that would be destructive.
David Smoak II took a deep breath and didn't send the compulsive email response or make that phone call and rip someone's head off.
We're here at NFL Media Headquarters and Radio Row and covering the Super Bowl and we've given the radio station more coverage and exposure---perhaps EVER.
And, yet--there's always someone who doesn't appreciate the work, doesn't understand what we're doing and has just basically ruined it for everyone else.
I've done everything possible to give those who most deserve it "this year" a chance to experience Super Bowl week. But, after today...well, I'll just bite my tongue.
David Smoak
P.S. Since some of you have asked, Butch Henry has been wonderful to work with and he was invited but couldn't make it up because of two reasons, Wednesday's Lady Bears game against OU (he's the shot clock operator), and the weather conditions. We're bringing him back a bunch of souvenirs and love. Butch doesn't travel much, but Paul and I have set a goal to get him out of state before the end of the year. I think Rangers Training Camp in Arizona is going to be tough for him to turn down. Baseball, GOLF, GOLF, and GOLF!!!
Mike Ditka, Drew Pearson, Deacon Jones, Jay Ratliff, Terence Newman, Thomas Everett, Rick Gosselin, and Mean Joe Greene.
My staff busted their butts for our station today and they have been all week.
But, despite the great day we had---and the day we're set to have on Friday---office politics took center stage. I'm amazed at how selfish some people can be...
We've had people busting their tails all week for the radio station--as they should be--and being at NFL Media Headquarters and Radio Row and covering the Super Bowl isn't a cocktail party, it's not a frat or sorority party---it's hard work.
But, I love it, I'll always love it and I am fortunate to be involved in the business.
As I've said many times, I get paid to talk about something I love, sports, athletics, games, scores, teams, players, fans, and I will always appreciate it.
I have never-ever complained about not being invited to an event in my 30-years in the business.
David Smoak I would've responded in so many ways that would be destructive.
David Smoak II took a deep breath and didn't send the compulsive email response or make that phone call and rip someone's head off.
We're here at NFL Media Headquarters and Radio Row and covering the Super Bowl and we've given the radio station more coverage and exposure---perhaps EVER.
And, yet--there's always someone who doesn't appreciate the work, doesn't understand what we're doing and has just basically ruined it for everyone else.
I've done everything possible to give those who most deserve it "this year" a chance to experience Super Bowl week. But, after today...well, I'll just bite my tongue.
David Smoak
P.S. Since some of you have asked, Butch Henry has been wonderful to work with and he was invited but couldn't make it up because of two reasons, Wednesday's Lady Bears game against OU (he's the shot clock operator), and the weather conditions. We're bringing him back a bunch of souvenirs and love. Butch doesn't travel much, but Paul and I have set a goal to get him out of state before the end of the year. I think Rangers Training Camp in Arizona is going to be tough for him to turn down. Baseball, GOLF, GOLF, and GOLF!!!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Super Bowl XLV Day IV
Well, it's been the busiest day at NFL Media Headquarters and Radio Row. We've already recorded interviews with Leon Lett, Erik Williams, Actor/Comedian Jay Mohr, Jerry Kramer, Christian Okoye, and the Miller High Life man, Windell Middlebrooks--and we're working the room for Sam Bradford and John Elway. We'll win a few, lose a few and do it again tomorrow.
My young Cubs, Zach and Paul went roaming last night, but they deserved to release a little energy after a busy day.
More ESPN Radio-Central Texas folks coming in today, webmaster-Beth Richards and photographer Marcel van Es.
David Smoak
My young Cubs, Zach and Paul went roaming last night, but they deserved to release a little energy after a busy day.
More ESPN Radio-Central Texas folks coming in today, webmaster-Beth Richards and photographer Marcel van Es.
David Smoak
Monday, January 31, 2011
NFL Media Headquarters, Radio Row, Day #2
We arrived in Dallas to get checked into our hotel, get our credentials and get setup at NFL Media Headquarters and Radio Row.
Paul, Zach, Terry and Graham were here in full force. Our promotions director, Casey Hartmann came up from Waco this morning to spend the day.
We're about an hour away from our first show which will include Roger Staubach, Former Baylor All-American OL Randy Grimes who has battled an addiction to pain killers from his days in the NFL with the Tampa Bay Bucs. We'll also have Baylor commit Spencer Drango, ESPN's Trey Wingo (Baylor Alum), Author Jim Dent, who wrote books---Twelve Mighty Orphans, King of the Cowboys, Junction Boys and his newest book, "Super Bowl, Texas Style." And, our regular Monday analyst, Jennifer Floyd-Engel.
Smoaky
Paul, Zach, Terry and Graham were here in full force. Our promotions director, Casey Hartmann came up from Waco this morning to spend the day.
We're about an hour away from our first show which will include Roger Staubach, Former Baylor All-American OL Randy Grimes who has battled an addiction to pain killers from his days in the NFL with the Tampa Bay Bucs. We'll also have Baylor commit Spencer Drango, ESPN's Trey Wingo (Baylor Alum), Author Jim Dent, who wrote books---Twelve Mighty Orphans, King of the Cowboys, Junction Boys and his newest book, "Super Bowl, Texas Style." And, our regular Monday analyst, Jennifer Floyd-Engel.
Smoaky
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Super Bowl XLV
Paul, Zach, and I will leave for our coverage of Super Bowl XLV on Sunday morning. We'll check into our hotel, check in for our credentials and begin setting up our spot inside NFL Media Headquarters and Radio Row.
My first visit to Radio Row came in January, 1993, Cowboys vs. Bills in L.A.. Media Headquarters and Radio Row was inside the Century Plaza Hotel in Beverly Hills. I've been to every Super Bowl but once since that first visit and I have to say, it's been nearly impossible to match that first trip.
Super Bowl, L.A., Century Plaza Hotel, it was like my first trip to The Masters in Augusta, Georgia, "just take me now."
Radio Row is amazing, personalities, celebrities, current, former and future NFL stars, and a hundred plus radio stations broadcasting from Hawaii to Boston, from Seattle to Miami.
And, we'll be there for the entire show...
I'm more excited about watching Paul and Zach's reaction to the week than anything else.
I've pretty much seen it all, I think.
Another exciting part about this year is watching how my son, Craig, and his radio station out of Tyler react to their coverage. Craig's been to a pretty good chunk of Super Bowl's but no one else at his station has been involved, so their reaction will be interesting to watch too.
We'll have video, pictures, interviews, and blogs on 1660espn.com.
David Smoak
My first visit to Radio Row came in January, 1993, Cowboys vs. Bills in L.A.. Media Headquarters and Radio Row was inside the Century Plaza Hotel in Beverly Hills. I've been to every Super Bowl but once since that first visit and I have to say, it's been nearly impossible to match that first trip.
Super Bowl, L.A., Century Plaza Hotel, it was like my first trip to The Masters in Augusta, Georgia, "just take me now."
Radio Row is amazing, personalities, celebrities, current, former and future NFL stars, and a hundred plus radio stations broadcasting from Hawaii to Boston, from Seattle to Miami.
And, we'll be there for the entire show...
I'm more excited about watching Paul and Zach's reaction to the week than anything else.
I've pretty much seen it all, I think.
Another exciting part about this year is watching how my son, Craig, and his radio station out of Tyler react to their coverage. Craig's been to a pretty good chunk of Super Bowl's but no one else at his station has been involved, so their reaction will be interesting to watch too.
We'll have video, pictures, interviews, and blogs on 1660espn.com.
David Smoak
Monday, January 24, 2011
What a huge week this could/will be...?
This week is going to fly by and when it does we'll have added new sponsors, created more energy and added more promotions for our station.
We're serious about infiltrating Central Texas to the south, Killeen, Fort Hood, Copperas Cove, Temple and Belton.
Why wouldn't we be serious?
We've added the frequencies to cover that area...and now we're spending more and more time in the southern part of our region.
Paul Catalina and I were live from Automax Hyundai in Temple again on Friday and then stayed around to broadcast the Belton @ Harker Heights boys basketball game. It turned out to be a pretty good one, Harker Heights remained unbeaten in 12-5A with a 71-67 victory.
Paul and I will be right back in Killeen on Tuesday, live at Fuddrucker's in Killeen, and then it's Copperas Cove @ Ellison right afterward.
We'll also broadcast Midway @ Killeen on Friday night.
We have two crucial meetings this week, one with a sponsor, another with an administration that could set us up for some huge revenue increase and exposure.
We're awaiting decisions from two additional administrations on some programming contracts that we've already discussed, either offered or countered and awaiting final counter. It's a fun part of the business as I continue my goal of understanding the administration end of running a radio station.
I received our sales figures for January and we're up 40% from this time a year ago. I'm so proud of our sales staff, Terry, Rich, Becky, Bill, Linda, Andee and Casey. Some of them have been in radio sales quite some time, some are learning the ropes.
We've also all but sold out our Academic All-Stars program honoring the elite student-athletes in Central Texas later this spring.
We'll send out the nomination packets to 65-70 Central Texas high schools this week, give them until March to return the nominations, sift through the nominees throughout April, announce the final team on Monday, May 2nd...which just so happens to be my birthday (50-something)!
We'll host our banquet in late-May, guest speaker, honor the winners and hopefully get some good media coverage as well.
We're working towards what we need with our Super Bowl XLV coverage in Dallas. I've told Paul, Jason, Zach and others who will be involved that I'll be pushing them all week to make sure we're ready, set, locked-and-loaded.
None of them have ever been to a Super Bowl or covered the "Week of Events" so they're in for a tweet, well---it's high-energy, intense and a media meat market.
David Smoak
We're serious about infiltrating Central Texas to the south, Killeen, Fort Hood, Copperas Cove, Temple and Belton.
Why wouldn't we be serious?
We've added the frequencies to cover that area...and now we're spending more and more time in the southern part of our region.
Paul Catalina and I were live from Automax Hyundai in Temple again on Friday and then stayed around to broadcast the Belton @ Harker Heights boys basketball game. It turned out to be a pretty good one, Harker Heights remained unbeaten in 12-5A with a 71-67 victory.
Paul and I will be right back in Killeen on Tuesday, live at Fuddrucker's in Killeen, and then it's Copperas Cove @ Ellison right afterward.
We'll also broadcast Midway @ Killeen on Friday night.
We have two crucial meetings this week, one with a sponsor, another with an administration that could set us up for some huge revenue increase and exposure.
We're awaiting decisions from two additional administrations on some programming contracts that we've already discussed, either offered or countered and awaiting final counter. It's a fun part of the business as I continue my goal of understanding the administration end of running a radio station.
I received our sales figures for January and we're up 40% from this time a year ago. I'm so proud of our sales staff, Terry, Rich, Becky, Bill, Linda, Andee and Casey. Some of them have been in radio sales quite some time, some are learning the ropes.
We've also all but sold out our Academic All-Stars program honoring the elite student-athletes in Central Texas later this spring.
We'll send out the nomination packets to 65-70 Central Texas high schools this week, give them until March to return the nominations, sift through the nominees throughout April, announce the final team on Monday, May 2nd...which just so happens to be my birthday (50-something)!
We'll host our banquet in late-May, guest speaker, honor the winners and hopefully get some good media coverage as well.
We're working towards what we need with our Super Bowl XLV coverage in Dallas. I've told Paul, Jason, Zach and others who will be involved that I'll be pushing them all week to make sure we're ready, set, locked-and-loaded.
None of them have ever been to a Super Bowl or covered the "Week of Events" so they're in for a tweet, well---it's high-energy, intense and a media meat market.
David Smoak
2010 ESPN Radio-Central Texas "All-Central Texas"
2010 Central Texas All-Smoaky.com Nominations:
(All-Smoaky.com East Texas Polls will be up later this week)
Coach of the Year:
Rusty Nail, Mart (Class 1-A, Division I State Champions)
Offensive Player of the Year:
Jack Rhoades, QB, Cameron Yoe, Sr. (239-357 passing for 3,553-yards. 48-TD, 215-yards rushing, 6-TD)
Defensive Player of the Year:
D'Shun Kinsey, LB, Mart, Sr. (188-Tackles, 24-TFL, 4-Caused Fumbles, 8-QB Pressures, 3-PBU,
1-Interception)
Lineman of the Year:
Beau Blackshear, DT, Midway, Sr. (77-Tackles, 3-Caused Fumbles, 2-Fumble Recoveries, 7-Sacks, 20-TFL, 14-QB Pressures, 6-PBU)
Game of the Year:
Class 2-A, Division I State Championship, Daingerfield 33, Cameron Yoe 27 (Cameron Yoe rallies to tie the game in the final minute, but Daingerfield QB Tyler Boyd hit WR Keyarris Garrett for a 69-yard TD pass with 26-seconds remaining in the game to win it).
1st-Team Offense:
Center: Michael Mooneyham, Sr., Fairfield
Guard: Gabe Waples, Sr., Mart
Guard: Cody Elenz, Sr., Copperas Cove
Tackle: Christian Barry, Sr., Midway
Tackle: Michael Starts, Jr., La Vega
Tight End: Dillon Dumas, Sr., China Spring
Wide Receiver: Heath Harris, Sr., West
Wide Receiver: Stephen Ruen, Sr., Groesbeck
Wide Receiver: Kevin Thomas, Sr., Midway
Quarterback: Jack Rhoades, Sr., Cameron Yoe
Fullback: Michael Martin, Sr., China Spring
Running Back: Damyon Kelley, Sr., Cameron Yoe
Running Back: B.J. Kelly, Soph., Midway
Utility: Devin McGowan, Sr., La Vega
1st-Team Defense:
Defensive Tackle: Beau Blackshear, Sr., Midway
Defensive Tackle: Trevor Valdez, Sr., Copperas Cove
Defensive End: Jairo Campa, Sr., Cameron Yoe
Defensive End: Jordan Taylor, Sr., La Vega
Linebacker: D’Shun Kinsey, Sr., Mart
Linebacker: Trey McGowan, Sr., Kerens
Linebacker: O’Neil Spells, Sr., Cameron Yoe
Linebacker: Lee Bristow, Sr., Midway
Cornerback: Trevion Sims, Sr., Cameron Yoe
Cornerback: Gene Gilbert, Sr., Copperas Cove
Safety: Chandler Snodgrass, Sr., Lorena
Safety: Jake Talbert, Sr., Crawford
1st-Team Special Teams:
XP/FG/Kicker: Collin Cranfill, Jr., China Spring
Punter: David Ash, Sr., Belton
KR/PR: Decrick Westbrook, Jr., Cameron Yoe
KR/PR: T.Q. Echols, Soph., Whitney
2nd-Team Offense:
Center: Justin Ingram, Sr. China Spring,
Guard: Dylan Brown, Soph., McGregor
Guard: Camrhon Hughes, Jr., Harker Heights
Tackle: Devin Threat, Sr., Mexia
Tackle: Sergio Vasquez, Jr., Goldthwaite
Tight End: Nick Renfro, Sr., Dawson
Wide Receiver: Tyree Jackson, Sr., La Vega
Wide Receiver: Adonis Haven, Jr., University
Wide Receiver: Adrian Henderson, Sr., Belton
Quarterback: David Ash, Sr., Belton
Fullback: Aurelio Rodriguez, Sr., Buffalo
Running Back: Brandon Bordovsky, Sr., Axtell
Running Back: Alex Shaw, Sr., Dawson
Utility: Bradly Krall, Jr., Lorena
2nd-Team Defense:
Defensive Tackle: Anthony Martin, Sr., Mart
Defensive Tackle: Dylan Brown, Soph., McGregor
Defensive End: D.J. Woods, Jr., Kerens
Defensive End: Cagan Smith, Sr., Goldthwaite
Linebacker: Colby Gordon, Sr., Lorena
Linebacker: Tristan Eche, Sr., Waco High
Linebacker: Christian Santulan, Sr., Gatesville
Linebacker: Johnathan White, Sr., Bremond
Defensive Back: Daniel Donoho, Jr., Corsicana Mildred
Defensive Back: Daniel Post, Sr., Crawford
Defensive Back: Kieran Wilson, Sr., McGregor
Defensive Back: Shakiel Randolph, Jr., Midway
2nd-Team Special Teams:
XP/FG/Kicker: Kevin Potts, Midway
Punter: Joseph Pickett, Sr., Temple
KR/PR: Will Randolph, Sr., Copperas Cove
KR/PR: Logan Simpson, Sr., Midway
(All-Smoaky.com East Texas Polls will be up later this week)
Coach of the Year:
Rusty Nail, Mart (Class 1-A, Division I State Champions)
Offensive Player of the Year:
Jack Rhoades, QB, Cameron Yoe, Sr. (239-357 passing for 3,553-yards. 48-TD, 215-yards rushing, 6-TD)
Defensive Player of the Year:
D'Shun Kinsey, LB, Mart, Sr. (188-Tackles, 24-TFL, 4-Caused Fumbles, 8-QB Pressures, 3-PBU,
1-Interception)
Lineman of the Year:
Beau Blackshear, DT, Midway, Sr. (77-Tackles, 3-Caused Fumbles, 2-Fumble Recoveries, 7-Sacks, 20-TFL, 14-QB Pressures, 6-PBU)
Game of the Year:
Class 2-A, Division I State Championship, Daingerfield 33, Cameron Yoe 27 (Cameron Yoe rallies to tie the game in the final minute, but Daingerfield QB Tyler Boyd hit WR Keyarris Garrett for a 69-yard TD pass with 26-seconds remaining in the game to win it).
1st-Team Offense:
Center: Michael Mooneyham, Sr., Fairfield
Guard: Gabe Waples, Sr., Mart
Guard: Cody Elenz, Sr., Copperas Cove
Tackle: Christian Barry, Sr., Midway
Tackle: Michael Starts, Jr., La Vega
Tight End: Dillon Dumas, Sr., China Spring
Wide Receiver: Heath Harris, Sr., West
Wide Receiver: Stephen Ruen, Sr., Groesbeck
Wide Receiver: Kevin Thomas, Sr., Midway
Quarterback: Jack Rhoades, Sr., Cameron Yoe
Fullback: Michael Martin, Sr., China Spring
Running Back: Damyon Kelley, Sr., Cameron Yoe
Running Back: B.J. Kelly, Soph., Midway
Utility: Devin McGowan, Sr., La Vega
1st-Team Defense:
Defensive Tackle: Beau Blackshear, Sr., Midway
Defensive Tackle: Trevor Valdez, Sr., Copperas Cove
Defensive End: Jairo Campa, Sr., Cameron Yoe
Defensive End: Jordan Taylor, Sr., La Vega
Linebacker: D’Shun Kinsey, Sr., Mart
Linebacker: Trey McGowan, Sr., Kerens
Linebacker: O’Neil Spells, Sr., Cameron Yoe
Linebacker: Lee Bristow, Sr., Midway
Cornerback: Trevion Sims, Sr., Cameron Yoe
Cornerback: Gene Gilbert, Sr., Copperas Cove
Safety: Chandler Snodgrass, Sr., Lorena
Safety: Jake Talbert, Sr., Crawford
1st-Team Special Teams:
XP/FG/Kicker: Collin Cranfill, Jr., China Spring
Punter: David Ash, Sr., Belton
KR/PR: Decrick Westbrook, Jr., Cameron Yoe
KR/PR: T.Q. Echols, Soph., Whitney
2nd-Team Offense:
Center: Justin Ingram, Sr. China Spring,
Guard: Dylan Brown, Soph., McGregor
Guard: Camrhon Hughes, Jr., Harker Heights
Tackle: Devin Threat, Sr., Mexia
Tackle: Sergio Vasquez, Jr., Goldthwaite
Tight End: Nick Renfro, Sr., Dawson
Wide Receiver: Tyree Jackson, Sr., La Vega
Wide Receiver: Adonis Haven, Jr., University
Wide Receiver: Adrian Henderson, Sr., Belton
Quarterback: David Ash, Sr., Belton
Fullback: Aurelio Rodriguez, Sr., Buffalo
Running Back: Brandon Bordovsky, Sr., Axtell
Running Back: Alex Shaw, Sr., Dawson
Utility: Bradly Krall, Jr., Lorena
2nd-Team Defense:
Defensive Tackle: Anthony Martin, Sr., Mart
Defensive Tackle: Dylan Brown, Soph., McGregor
Defensive End: D.J. Woods, Jr., Kerens
Defensive End: Cagan Smith, Sr., Goldthwaite
Linebacker: Colby Gordon, Sr., Lorena
Linebacker: Tristan Eche, Sr., Waco High
Linebacker: Christian Santulan, Sr., Gatesville
Linebacker: Johnathan White, Sr., Bremond
Defensive Back: Daniel Donoho, Jr., Corsicana Mildred
Defensive Back: Daniel Post, Sr., Crawford
Defensive Back: Kieran Wilson, Sr., McGregor
Defensive Back: Shakiel Randolph, Jr., Midway
2nd-Team Special Teams:
XP/FG/Kicker: Kevin Potts, Midway
Punter: Joseph Pickett, Sr., Temple
KR/PR: Will Randolph, Sr., Copperas Cove
KR/PR: Logan Simpson, Sr., Midway
Saturday, January 22, 2011
The first "Phil Bennett" recruiting switch...
There was no doubt Baylor's new defensive coordinator, Phil Bennett, would make a dent or two before national signing day, and chalk one up with Mesquite Horn LB Kyle Boyd, switching from Iowa State to Baylor on Saturday.
Also, word I'm getting is this Herschel Sims (Abilene High RB) visit is more than serious. A pretty good source tells me OSU has contacted the coach of a running back in East Texas who has just committed to a Big East school, and they did it because they're expecting one of their RB recruits to change his mind.
Sims is currently committed to Oklahoma State.
David Smoak
Also, word I'm getting is this Herschel Sims (Abilene High RB) visit is more than serious. A pretty good source tells me OSU has contacted the coach of a running back in East Texas who has just committed to a Big East school, and they did it because they're expecting one of their RB recruits to change his mind.
Sims is currently committed to Oklahoma State.
David Smoak
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
NFL Playoffs, HS Basketball and "Spanning the Globe"
Despite all the wide-open, high-flying offensive teams and styles in all levels of football, I've always remained an old-school guy.
I love a good running game, solid defense, and fundamentally sound special teams.
Who wouldn't, right?
Well, based on the spread offenses, I'm not so sure.
I like a good 20-17 game rather than 50-45. Don't get me wrong, I'm not against a good shootout every once in a while, but not week-in and week-out.
Look the NFL's "Final 4."
Bears, Packers, Steelers and NY Jets have one thing in common, DEFENSE.
Yes, some of them can score more than others, but they win with defense.
Maybe Jerry Jones can learn from this lesson, especially with the Super Bowl in his stadium.
Jerry and Cowboys have committed a lot of their draft picks to defense, but most of their bigger contracts and especially free agent acquisitions are on offense. And, even worse, most of their bad contracts have been spent on offensive players (Barber, UT-Roy), you get the picture.
-----
We're committed to broadcasting a handful of high school basketball games over the next month or two, starting with Belton @ Harker Heights this Friday. Belton is trying to get into the playoffs, Harker Heights is unbeaten in 12-5A.
-----
I made it very clear that what "was" 1660ESPN Radio-Waco will become ESPN Radio-Central Texas...and we will realize there's a southern area in our listening area, Temple, Killeen, Fort Hood, Belton, and wherever else.
The added FM frequencies in Temple, Killeen and Waco only enhance our commitment and passion for the entire market, not only Waco.
We've built our foundation in Waco, but our future is Waco, Temple, Killeen and greater-Central Texas.
With that being said, I've reached out to some of the other Central Texas sports editors and asked them to be involved in our show, once or twice a week, short, sweet, energetic, but informative.
We're going to do it, we've started to change the mentality, and we will.
Thank you for listening when and if you do.
David Smoak
I love a good running game, solid defense, and fundamentally sound special teams.
Who wouldn't, right?
Well, based on the spread offenses, I'm not so sure.
I like a good 20-17 game rather than 50-45. Don't get me wrong, I'm not against a good shootout every once in a while, but not week-in and week-out.
Look the NFL's "Final 4."
Bears, Packers, Steelers and NY Jets have one thing in common, DEFENSE.
Yes, some of them can score more than others, but they win with defense.
Maybe Jerry Jones can learn from this lesson, especially with the Super Bowl in his stadium.
Jerry and Cowboys have committed a lot of their draft picks to defense, but most of their bigger contracts and especially free agent acquisitions are on offense. And, even worse, most of their bad contracts have been spent on offensive players (Barber, UT-Roy), you get the picture.
-----
We're committed to broadcasting a handful of high school basketball games over the next month or two, starting with Belton @ Harker Heights this Friday. Belton is trying to get into the playoffs, Harker Heights is unbeaten in 12-5A.
-----
I made it very clear that what "was" 1660ESPN Radio-Waco will become ESPN Radio-Central Texas...and we will realize there's a southern area in our listening area, Temple, Killeen, Fort Hood, Belton, and wherever else.
The added FM frequencies in Temple, Killeen and Waco only enhance our commitment and passion for the entire market, not only Waco.
We've built our foundation in Waco, but our future is Waco, Temple, Killeen and greater-Central Texas.
With that being said, I've reached out to some of the other Central Texas sports editors and asked them to be involved in our show, once or twice a week, short, sweet, energetic, but informative.
We're going to do it, we've started to change the mentality, and we will.
Thank you for listening when and if you do.
David Smoak
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Another great week, with the weekend to come...
I'm very excited about what we've accomplished this week.
We've tried to stay ahead of the curve on the various coaching staff changes within the Baylor football program.
We had the nugget during Thursday's show the day before it was announced Phil Bennett would be the defensive coordinator. We had the note on Twitter very early on Friday morning before that release as well.
And, we were able to get a lengthy one-on-one with Phil Bennett on Monday afternoon and the response was nuclear in a good way on the various message boards and on our talk show. Bennett has given Baylor Nation a little "kick in the pants" with his various quotes.
Paul Catalina and I were live from the American Football Coaches Association Convention on Tuesday at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas and grabbed Art Briles to talk about the Bennett hiring and the pending changes on the defensive staff.
And, on Wednesday, we continued to stay ahead of the curve with the nugget about Jim Gush as linebackers coach and Carlton Buckels as cornerbacks coach. Sicemsports.com had a note about Gush on Tuesday evening and I had three sources give me confirmation on his eventual hiring on Tuesday night.
We were able to line-up Coach Buckels on Wednesday's show, and Coach Gush today (Thursday).
We've also had a nice run this week involving segments with former Astros All-Star OF Jimmy Wynn and Cowboys Hall of Fame DB Mel Renfro.
I'm headed to the Killeen/Fort Hood/Copperas Cove market on Friday morning to meet with a school or two about the football season and to dig around on some potential sponsors.
We're hosting You Make The Call at Automax Hyundai in Temple.
It's been another really good week, and our sales for this month have surpassed a number that was once the threshold during a good month. And, for it to come during January, normally a very slow month in radio sales, makes it even more special.
David Smoak
We've tried to stay ahead of the curve on the various coaching staff changes within the Baylor football program.
We had the nugget during Thursday's show the day before it was announced Phil Bennett would be the defensive coordinator. We had the note on Twitter very early on Friday morning before that release as well.
And, we were able to get a lengthy one-on-one with Phil Bennett on Monday afternoon and the response was nuclear in a good way on the various message boards and on our talk show. Bennett has given Baylor Nation a little "kick in the pants" with his various quotes.
Paul Catalina and I were live from the American Football Coaches Association Convention on Tuesday at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas and grabbed Art Briles to talk about the Bennett hiring and the pending changes on the defensive staff.
And, on Wednesday, we continued to stay ahead of the curve with the nugget about Jim Gush as linebackers coach and Carlton Buckels as cornerbacks coach. Sicemsports.com had a note about Gush on Tuesday evening and I had three sources give me confirmation on his eventual hiring on Tuesday night.
We were able to line-up Coach Buckels on Wednesday's show, and Coach Gush today (Thursday).
We've also had a nice run this week involving segments with former Astros All-Star OF Jimmy Wynn and Cowboys Hall of Fame DB Mel Renfro.
I'm headed to the Killeen/Fort Hood/Copperas Cove market on Friday morning to meet with a school or two about the football season and to dig around on some potential sponsors.
We're hosting You Make The Call at Automax Hyundai in Temple.
It's been another really good week, and our sales for this month have surpassed a number that was once the threshold during a good month. And, for it to come during January, normally a very slow month in radio sales, makes it even more special.
David Smoak
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Cotton Bowl, Phil Bennett, NFL playoffs, busy week ahead...
Paul Catalina and I enjoyed our trip to broadcast "You Make The Call" from Cowboys Stadium and the Cotton Bowl.
It is still very strange for me to say we're at the Cotton Bowl, knowing it's at Jerry's World. Like, when I opened one segment with, "We're live from the Cotton Bowl."
Well, were we?
Yes and no. There's still this 75,000+ stadium in south Dallas that calls itself the Cotton Bowl, but it's becoming more and more irrelevant each year.
I wonder how long before the Texas-OU game is moved to Arlington.
I spent a lot of time with family again this weekend, this time a ton of relatives celebrating a "late" Christmas in Plano with Cindy's parents and family. They put on a show, but as we all get older, it's so much fun to watch the grand kids enjoying "Santa Claus."
I've been nursing a little nagging cough and it's made me a little nervous coming off the double-pneumonia from back in early-October. I can't take anything for granted so I might go and get a checkup on Monday or Tuesday.
I'll just suck down a dose of NyQuil tonight to get some decent sleep and avoid the ticklish cough that drove me crazy last night.
I went 3-1 during the opening weekend of the NFL playoffs, missed the 7-9 Seahawks thumping the defending champion Saints. I never felt like the 2010 Saints got their Mojo going and so another year goes by and another defending champion bites the dust without the opportunity to defend their title.
Round 2 is loaded with intriguing games including a GREAT Final Four in the AFC, how can it get much better than NY Jets-Patriots, Ravens-Steelers...NFC not bad, interesting, last time Chicago went to the Super Bowl, they had to beat Seattle on their way---they'll host the Seahawks this weekend. I look forward to the Green Bay @ Atlanta game.
Will be interesting to monitor the positive feedback from the Phil Bennett hiring and his arrival to Waco this week. I'm looking forward to talking with him on our show this week. The response from all angles has been very positive.
And, busy week for us at 1660ESPN Radio, we'll be at the Phil Bennett announcement on campus whenever that happens---although that might happen up in Dallas where we'll be at the American Football Coaches Convention. Tuesday night it's OU vs. Baylor Bears, who opened Big 12 play with a nice win in Lubbock.
I've been invited to speak at the Kiwani's Club meeting on Tuesday, first invite to speak at one of those local groups since my arrival in late-June and I hope there's more to come. I enjoyed my trip to speak to students at University of Mary Hardin-Baylor back during the fall.
We have the Lady Bears at home on Saturday night, and an appearance at Automax Hyundai on Friday, Click's on Thursday and working on launching our Academic All-Stars program.
David Smoak
It is still very strange for me to say we're at the Cotton Bowl, knowing it's at Jerry's World. Like, when I opened one segment with, "We're live from the Cotton Bowl."
Well, were we?
Yes and no. There's still this 75,000+ stadium in south Dallas that calls itself the Cotton Bowl, but it's becoming more and more irrelevant each year.
I wonder how long before the Texas-OU game is moved to Arlington.
I spent a lot of time with family again this weekend, this time a ton of relatives celebrating a "late" Christmas in Plano with Cindy's parents and family. They put on a show, but as we all get older, it's so much fun to watch the grand kids enjoying "Santa Claus."
I've been nursing a little nagging cough and it's made me a little nervous coming off the double-pneumonia from back in early-October. I can't take anything for granted so I might go and get a checkup on Monday or Tuesday.
I'll just suck down a dose of NyQuil tonight to get some decent sleep and avoid the ticklish cough that drove me crazy last night.
I went 3-1 during the opening weekend of the NFL playoffs, missed the 7-9 Seahawks thumping the defending champion Saints. I never felt like the 2010 Saints got their Mojo going and so another year goes by and another defending champion bites the dust without the opportunity to defend their title.
Round 2 is loaded with intriguing games including a GREAT Final Four in the AFC, how can it get much better than NY Jets-Patriots, Ravens-Steelers...NFC not bad, interesting, last time Chicago went to the Super Bowl, they had to beat Seattle on their way---they'll host the Seahawks this weekend. I look forward to the Green Bay @ Atlanta game.
Will be interesting to monitor the positive feedback from the Phil Bennett hiring and his arrival to Waco this week. I'm looking forward to talking with him on our show this week. The response from all angles has been very positive.
And, busy week for us at 1660ESPN Radio, we'll be at the Phil Bennett announcement on campus whenever that happens---although that might happen up in Dallas where we'll be at the American Football Coaches Convention. Tuesday night it's OU vs. Baylor Bears, who opened Big 12 play with a nice win in Lubbock.
I've been invited to speak at the Kiwani's Club meeting on Tuesday, first invite to speak at one of those local groups since my arrival in late-June and I hope there's more to come. I enjoyed my trip to speak to students at University of Mary Hardin-Baylor back during the fall.
We have the Lady Bears at home on Saturday night, and an appearance at Automax Hyundai on Friday, Click's on Thursday and working on launching our Academic All-Stars program.
David Smoak
Friday, January 7, 2011
Luck is when preparation meets opportunity...
I will never forget the words of KLTV-TV sports director in the fall of 1984.
I had just moved to work with KLTV a couple of months earlier from KTRE-TV in Lufkin/Nacogdoches...and here I was a couple of months later breaking a story on a coaching change in the East Texas area.
After the 10pm news one night and after we broke the story, Jerry came up to me and said, "Smoaky, great job---we got them tonight."
Back then, there wasn't much competition in the TV market in Tyler/Longview, there was KLTV and the new CBS affiliate, KLMG in Longview.
Our main competitor was the Tyler Morning Telegraph, they had a great staff of writers...
They beat us a few times and visa-versa.
So, after Jerry's comment, I said, "I got a little lucky."
He immediately responded, "Luck is when preparation meets opportunity."
I've never forgotten that phrase, and today's Tweet on Twitter early this morning, "It's a done deal, he's coming to Baylor," was all about preparation meeting an opportunity.
"It's a done deal, he's coming to Baylor" was about Phil Bennett taking the defensive coordinator position under Art Briles. I've known the Bennett family since the mid-1980's from their connection to Marshall, Texas where they were born and raised and other stops in the high school coaching tree, including Jerry Bennett at Jefferson and now at Linden-Kildare HS in deep northeast Texas.
I called Jerry earlier this week working a completely different story on Baylor recruiting, and before you know it our conversation turned to his brother Phil and one thing led to another, and...."It's a done deal, he's coming to Baylor."
Had I not made the phone call to Jerry Bennett earlier this week, I don't think we have the conversation about his brother Phil. But, we did, and I was able to Tweet this morning and give our radio station a little exposure.
The story isn't over, more changes could be on the way and we hope to be on top of all of them.
David Smoak
I had just moved to work with KLTV a couple of months earlier from KTRE-TV in Lufkin/Nacogdoches...and here I was a couple of months later breaking a story on a coaching change in the East Texas area.
After the 10pm news one night and after we broke the story, Jerry came up to me and said, "Smoaky, great job---we got them tonight."
Back then, there wasn't much competition in the TV market in Tyler/Longview, there was KLTV and the new CBS affiliate, KLMG in Longview.
Our main competitor was the Tyler Morning Telegraph, they had a great staff of writers...
They beat us a few times and visa-versa.
So, after Jerry's comment, I said, "I got a little lucky."
He immediately responded, "Luck is when preparation meets opportunity."
I've never forgotten that phrase, and today's Tweet on Twitter early this morning, "It's a done deal, he's coming to Baylor," was all about preparation meeting an opportunity.
"It's a done deal, he's coming to Baylor" was about Phil Bennett taking the defensive coordinator position under Art Briles. I've known the Bennett family since the mid-1980's from their connection to Marshall, Texas where they were born and raised and other stops in the high school coaching tree, including Jerry Bennett at Jefferson and now at Linden-Kildare HS in deep northeast Texas.
I called Jerry earlier this week working a completely different story on Baylor recruiting, and before you know it our conversation turned to his brother Phil and one thing led to another, and...."It's a done deal, he's coming to Baylor."
Had I not made the phone call to Jerry Bennett earlier this week, I don't think we have the conversation about his brother Phil. But, we did, and I was able to Tweet this morning and give our radio station a little exposure.
The story isn't over, more changes could be on the way and we hope to be on top of all of them.
David Smoak
Thursday, January 6, 2011
1660ESPN continues to grow by the frequency...
When I arrived at 1660ESPN Radio in Waco, we were on AM1660 and that was it.
In November, we started to simulcast our station on 106.9FM in Killeen, Fort Hood, Kempner, and Copperas Cove.
And, tonight, we've added two new FM frequencies to our "ESPN-CENTRAL TEXAS" family.
Welcome to 101.3FM in Waco, and 100.9FM in Temple.
These additions won't change what we do because we've been covering greater-Central Texas for many years.
These new frequencies will just add a little "umph" to what we do with our signal, especially at night but also in some cases during the day.
Of course, along the way, we added "Live Streaming" on 1660espn.com.
Thank you for listening when you do...
David Smoak
In November, we started to simulcast our station on 106.9FM in Killeen, Fort Hood, Kempner, and Copperas Cove.
And, tonight, we've added two new FM frequencies to our "ESPN-CENTRAL TEXAS" family.
Welcome to 101.3FM in Waco, and 100.9FM in Temple.
These additions won't change what we do because we've been covering greater-Central Texas for many years.
These new frequencies will just add a little "umph" to what we do with our signal, especially at night but also in some cases during the day.
Of course, along the way, we added "Live Streaming" on 1660espn.com.
Thank you for listening when you do...
David Smoak
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