In Play! Magazine

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June, 2009 Issue

Special Olympics Windsor, 2009

Marketing Research Questionnaire

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In-Play! Blogs

DETROIT LIONS DIRECTOR OF SECURITY RICKY SANDOVAL DIES AT AGE 49

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-07-02

Allen Park, Mich.—Ricky Sandoval, the team’s beloved director of security, died Thursday morning at Harper University Hospital in Detroit after a courageous and extended battle with pancreatic cancer that lasted more than three years. He turned 49 on June 30 and is survived by his loving wife, Gael.

Read more
http://inplaymaglions.blogspot.com/

APBA GOLD CUP HYDROPLANE RACES

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-06-29

OUR VIP SAVINGS CLUB CARD WILL SAVE YOU 20% OFF THE PRICE OF ALL TICKETS TO THE UPCOMING APBA GOLD HYDRO PLANE RACES.

CLICK ON THE VIP SAVINGS CLUB CARD LOGO IN THE TOP RIGHT CORNER OF THE HOME PAGE AND FOLLOW THE LINKS.

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BYLSMA, HOLLAND NAMED COACH, GM OF THE YEAR

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-06-23

TORONTO – Dan Bylsma’s incredible and improbable run to a Stanley Cup has earned him the NHL coach of the year award as selected by The Hockey News.

From the moment he stepped behind the Penguins bench in mid-February, Bylsma encouraged an aggressive approach that meshed perfectly with the mentality of the team’s young core.

The 38-year-old from Grand Haven, Mich., led Pittsburgh to an 18-2-4 regular season finish, before repeating as Eastern Conference playoff champions and winning the Cup in a thrilling seven-game final over the Detroit Red Wings.

Read more in our Red Wings Blog
http://inplaymagazine.blogspot.com/2009/06/bylsma-holland-named-coach-gm-of-year.html

TIGERS HOST CHICAGO CUBS

Posted By: Denny McLain
Date: 2009-06-22

DETROIT June 22 – The Detroit Tigers host the Chicago Cubs for three games beginning Tuesday, June 23. Tuesday and Wednesday’s games start at 7:05 p.m. while Thursday’s game is at 1:05 p.m. The Cubs make their second trip to Comerica Park, last visiting in 2001. This marks the fifth year the two organizations have met during interleague play, with the Tigers posting an 8-3 record.

Interleague play doesn’t quite tell the entire history between the two century-old franchises. The Tigers made three consecutive World Series appearances from 1907-09, but came up short in all three series. The first two at the hands of the Chicago Cubs, who won the 1907 series in a four-game sweep (Game 1 ended in a tie) and the 1908 series in five games.

The Tigers would have their revenge, defeating the Cubs in six games in the 1935 World Series, giving Detroit the franchise’s first world championship. Detroit won game six at Navin Field in front of 48,420 faithful Tigers fans.

Ten years later, in 1945, the two historical franchises met for the last time in postseason play. In Game 7 of the World Series, the Tigers defeated the Cubs, 9-3, in front of 41,590 fans at Wrigley Field. It marked the last time the Chicago Cubs appeared in a World Series, while the Tigers have gone on to appear in the 1968, 1984 and 2006 World Series, last being crowned world champions 25 years ago in 1984.

GAME 7 TICKETS WE GOT EM!

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-06-10

STANLEY CUP GAME GAME 7 TICKETS!
WE GOT EM!

CLICK ON THE BIG RED TICKET BUTTON NEAR THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE.

DON'T MISS OUT ON THE ONCE IN A LIFETIME CHANCE TO BE GUARANTEED TO SEE THE STANLEY CUP HOISTED!!!

IT IS GOING TO BE A ZOO!

Sid the Kid, Just That...

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-06-07

Well the Pittsburg Penguins goon squad was out in full force last night as the pesky Pens failed to tally a marker against the high flying Red Wings.

Sidney Crosby must grow up and do it fast or his team will be on the outside looking in for a second year in a row. Another Stanley Cup lose could prove detrimental to the Pens’ team during the off-season.

Last night’s game five was more of a circus side show from the defending Eastern conference champs than a match up.

The box score reads more like a laundry list of tips on “How to be a goon squad”.

Three 10-minute misconducts, three slashing penalties, elbowing, high sticking, interference with the goal keeper...12 penalties in all. It was reminiscent of game four in Chicago where the Black Hawks were in a constant parade to the sin bin with 16 penalties.

This is where “Sid the Kid” must stop being a kid and become a leader. The big “C” means leading by example and letting the wheels come off like last night’s train wreck is not the way to do it.

The most despicable act from last night’s game was Maxime Talbot’s slash on Pavel Datsyuk’s injured foot.

When asked about the slash in the post game press conference Crosby says “I didn't see it. I mean, this is the playoffs. And there's lots of stuff going on out there. I'm sure that's not the only slash. It's the playoffs”.

I’m not sure if condoning goonification is leadership material there kid.

Maybe the better answer would have been “it was in the heat of battle”, or “or it was an accident”, but “it’s the playoffs” just seems like a poor answer.

Keep your head up Talbot, because if you get “Kronwalled” that’s because “It’s the playoffs”.

If you DO want to be known as a goon squad that’s fine just don’t deny it kid.

Key Notes from NHL Comish Gary Bettman

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-05-31

(Detroit, May 20) Here are some key notes from NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman's press conference yesterday at the Detroit Marriott.

According to Bettman, the reason for the seemingly accelerated start to the finals was not by his hand. Bettman says " We have four (TV) networks that worked with us...not the other way around." Saturday's start was prime time on NBC, and Hockey Night In Canada got its traditional Saturday night game.

The Commissioner goes on to say that over the past several years the average delay from conference finals to the beginning of the Stanley Cup Finals has averaged four days.

This year was a three day delay to accommodate all four TV networks so he does not see this as being a factor.

The topic switched to the Phoenix Coyotes and the debacle going on down in the sunbelt.

It does not look like the move from Phoenix to Hamilton is going to take place. At least not by the words of Bettman.
"We don't run out on cities," was Bettman's response when asked about the possibility of the team moving.

Bettman cited attendance records of past NHL Canadian teams being worse than that of the current Phoenix Coyotes.

Although upon investigation it seems the Quebec Nordiques attendance (last three years) was right in line with NHL averages at the time.

So it begs to wonder why the team was able to move to Colorado?

Bettman also alludes to having the backing of the team owners on the Phoenix issue as well.

Game two takes place tonight at Joe Louis Arena at 8PM

STANLEY CUP FINAL GAME 2 START TIME SET FOR 8 P.M. ET

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-05-30

DETROIT (May 30, 2009) – The National Hockey League announced today that
Game 2 of the 2009 Stanley Cup Final on May 31, 2009, has been assigned an 8 p.m. ET
start time .
The game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings at Joe Louis
Arena in Detroit will be broadcast on NBC in the United States and on CBC and RDS in
Canada.

STANLEY CUP TICKETS. WE GOT EM!

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-05-28

STANLEY CUP FINALS.
HOME AND AWAY TICKETS.
CLICK ON THE BIG RED BUTTON NEAR THE BOTTOM LEFT OF THIS PAGE.
TICKETS FROM $134

Chicago Black Hawks Fans Complete Animals!

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-05-26

I just got back from games three and four of the NHL Western Conference Finals at the United Center in Chicago.

First let me say I love the city of Chicago, what a great place to visit, but in all honesty 80% of the Black Hawks fans we saw or ran into were just complete animals!

I understand good ol fashioned ribbing and trash talking but fans in the stands at game three and four would never make it through a game at the Joe. They would be escorted out the building and be watching the game from the bar.

And walking around the city was not much better. Hawks fans were so angry after game four they were rolling down their car windows as they were driving by to yell obscenities at our group.

We also ran into (albeit drunk) fans walking down the street that we almost got into a fight with!

You don't (I don't) see Wings fans behaving like the degenerates I witnessed this past weekend. I am sure there is one in every crowd but it seemed like there was 8 out of 10 in every crowd in Chicago.

Cobo Joe's is a good example. You will see the opposition's fans in there every game, they get booed when they walk in but that's it. Afterwards you will see Wings fans and Black Hawk fans discussing the game over a cold one.

As I said, I understand some good trash talking and being a fan but I was disappointed in what I saw this past weekend in Chicago.

I love the city of Chicago but, Black Hawks fans...well we won't have to deal with them anymore until next year in about 24 hours.

Maybe winning breeds a better fan.

Great Interviews with Red Wings Kronwall, Osgood and Zets

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-05-26

Find out why Ozzie was pulled in the 3rd period of game four.
See what Kronwall says about "The Hit."
And what Zetterberg thinks about closing out the series on Wednesday.

Take a look in our Red Wings section in our Fan Forums on the main menu to get all the answers and many more.

WCF Game One Press Conference Interview With MIKE BABCOCK

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-05-18

Press Conference Quotes-May 18, 2009--Detroit
An interview with: MIKE BABCOCK

Q. After watching the video, is there anything you saw that you guys could do better defensively against a guy like Kane who had no shots yesterday?
MIKE BABCOCK: We turned the puck over way too often yesterday. Turnovers just fuel the fires of a transition team. We can't be doing that for sure, so we got to do that a lot better. We never had enough O zone time. Didn't hang onto the puck and grind like we'd like to.
But we'll focus on trying to get better in that area as well. Just things when you haven't played a team in the playoffs that you try to adjust to, tidy up, that's what we have to do.
Ideally our legs will be better. And our emotional engagement in the first 10 minutes wasn't good enough. Ideally we'll be better at that tomorrow.

M0RE Q&A WITH BABCOCK IN OUR RED WINGS FAN FORUM CHECK OUR MAIN MENU

PIZZA KING NEWEST VIP PARTNER

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-05-12

We would like to welcome PIZZA KING both locations as our newest VIP Partner.

PIZZA KING is offering 10% OFF deliveries over $25 with your VIP SAVINGS CLUB CARD.

GET YOUR CARD TODAY ONLINE BY CLICKING THE VIP ICON AT THE TOP OF THIS PAGE AND FOLLOWING THE LINKS.

BECOME A MEMBER OF THE COOLEST CLUB IN TOWN!

HALL OF FAME COACH CHUCK DALY PASSES AWAY AT 78

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-05-09

DETROIT PISTONS AND PALACE SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT MOURN THE PASSING HALL OF FAME COACH CHUCK DALY

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The Detroit Pistons and Palace Sports and Entertainment mourn the passing of Hall of Fame Coach Chuck Daly. The 78-year-old, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in February, passed away this morning in Jupiter, Florida on May 9 with his family by his side. Funeral arrangements are pending, but services will take place next week in Jupiter/Tequesta, Florida.

READ THE COMPLETE STATEMENT FROM THE PISTONS AND PALACE ENTERTAINMENT IN OUR PISTON FAN FORUM ON THE MAIN MENU.

VIP Savings Club

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-05-07

We had dinner with some friends last night at Chanosos in downtown Windsor and presented my VIP Savings Club card to Damian the waiter.
It wound up knocking $11 dollars off the bill.

I used it one time and I got back $11 of the $25 it cost for the card and I still have an entire year left on my membership!

Click on the VIP Card graphic above to learn how to become a member of this fantastic and valuable club.

Send us an email to info@bizxmagazine.com describing where you used your card, how much you saved and we will publish it.

LIONS SIGN FREE AGENT LB LARRY FOOTE

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-05-06

Allen Park, Mich.- The Detroit Lions announced today that they have signed free agent LB Larry Foote to a one-year deal. Additional contract terms were not disclosed.

Foote (6-1, 239) comes to Detroit after spending his first seven NFL seasons in Pittsburgh, including the past five as a starting inside linebacker. His best season came in 2005 when he led the Steelers with a career-high 123 tackles (96 solo) en route to winning Super Bowl XL at Ford Field in Detroit.

Spitfire Mania Hosted by WMHA

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-05-03

Don't have a ticket to te game? Not a Problem!

Join the the Windsor Minor Hockey Association for all up coming Windsor Spitfire games.
Let’s Cheer the Spit’s ON!!!!!!!!!!
All the way to a Memorial Cup Championship!!!!!!!

Free Entry (No charge to get in)
Two Huge 8 foot by 8 foot screens
With other small screens!!!!

50/50 draw & Cash bar with proceeds
Benefiting “WMHA and the Jr. Spitfires”

ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET for $8.00
Buffet available from the drop of the puck to the end of the 2nd period. Prepaid group Reservations call Fogolar 519-966-2230

Windsor Spitfires Photos

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-04-30

Windsor Spitfire fans...be sure to check out our great photos from the Conference Finals and from the Game One blowout against the Brampton Battalion. Photos are available in the photo gallery on our main menu.

Spitfires Ask Fans For White Out Tonight.

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-04-22

"Hey Everyone, just reminding everyone to wear white to tonight's game and bring a white towel to wave. Let's make a true white out and GO SPITS GO!"

The Windsor Spitfires look to wrap up the Western Conference Championship tonight against the London Knights at the WFCU Centre.

My Thoughts On This Year's Tigers

Posted By: Denny McLain
Date: 2009-04-07

My Thoughts On This Year's Tigers
By Denny McLain

Please someone please tell me where this "front office" of the Tigers was this past winter...again, where the hell is the pitching?

Do they not know what we know, or on the other hand, is the issue perspective players don't want what the Tigers are offering?

Did no one see what we all saw last year? Relying on the same ole, same ole guys wont get it done folks, I know one game does not make a season and I am underlining that but folks, did you see anything good in last nights season opener?

A few new names stood out but no players who will make a difference and that spells some bad baseball coming up again this year.

Justin Verlander? He has mechanic issues, Justin has to learn and I am sure he will sooner or later that you don’t have to throw 97 MPH fastballs all the time, big league hitters have the ability to whack those, as demonstrated again last night’s season opener in Toronto.

Justin needs to think positioning of his pitches, keeping the ball down and strikes, getting behind the hitters is a disaster and one line of advice, Justin, your mechanics are all messed up.

Remember all pitching starts with the head, in more ways than one: in other words, just like a golfer, if you move that head you'll hit a lot of ugly shots, as a pitcher, if you move that head, you have not got a chance to throw good strikes, throwing good strikes would be only be by chance, not be design.

Stop the nonsense of throwing change-ups when you are ahead of the hitters, why give a guy a chance to hit your "not best pitch" when you're ahead of that hitter?

Concentrate on that head, you will be surprised how many strikes you can throw and sooner than later with your stuff, it will make ya start pitching smarter, you will be using fewer pitches.

Food for bad thought:
If Justin does not win 15-18 games...who will? OH OH?

Tickets Remain for Tonights Game.

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-04-02

April 2, 5:12 pm
There are a limited amount of seats still remaining for game One of the Semi Finals tonight against the Plymouth Whalers.
Click on the Spitfires link at the top of this page for more details.

RED WINGS CAPTURE EIGHTH CONSECUTIVE CENTRAL DIVISION TITLE

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-03-30

RED WINGS CAPTURE EIGHTH CONSECUTIVE CENTRAL DIVISION TITLE

Detroit, MI… The Detroit Red Wings have clinched the 2008-09 Central Division title.

Detroit has now captured eight consecutive Central Division crowns dating back to the 2000-01 season. The Red Wings have also claimed 12 of the last 15. Two times during that span in which they failed to win the division, the Red Wings went on to win the Stanley Cup (1996-97 and 1997-98).

Detroit (49-18-9, 107 points) has six games remaining in the 2008-09 regular season. The Chicago Blackhawks (40-23-11, 91 points), currently in second place in the Central, have eight games remaining. Detroit holds the edge over Chicago in a tie-break situation (wins). All five teams in the Central Division currently hold one of the eight playoff spots in the Western Conference.

The Red Wings have now won 15 division titles since Mike and Marian Ilitch purchased the franchise in 1982.

APRIL 5 RED WINGS GAME MOVED TO 12:30 PM

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-03-29

APRIL 5 RED WINGS GAME MOVED TO 12:30 PM

… Fans Reminded of Change as Tickets List 5:00 PM …

Detroit, MI…The Detroit Red Wings home game on April 5, 2009 vs. the Minnesota Wild has been moved to a 12:30 PM start to accommodate a national television broadcast by NBC (WDIV, Ch. 4). Fans are reminded of the change as the move was made just one week ago and all tickets list the original incorrect time of 5:00 pm.

Tigers Update

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-03-29

The Tigers today (March 29) placed righthanded pitcher Joel Zumaya on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to March 27 with a sore right shoulder and lefthanded pitcher Dontrelle Willis on the 15-day disabled list with an anxiety disorder.

Additionally, the Tigers today returned the contract of lefthanded pitcher Kyle Bloom to the Pittsburgh Pirates organization.

Following today’s roster moves, 35 players remain in major league camp with the Tigers.

2009 Special Olympics Summer Games

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-03-21

In Play! magazine is proud to be an Official Sponsor of the 2009 Special Olympics Summer Games in Windsor this July 23-25.
Click on the link to the right for complete details.

COREY SMITH MEMORIAL SERVICE AND SCHOLARSHIP FUND INFORMATION

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-03-19

The family of Corey Smith will hold a memorial service on Saturday, March 21 at Saint Paul’s Baptist Church in Richmond, Va., beginning at Noon. The family has also established the Corey D. Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund. Details regarding the memorial service and scholarship fund are provided below.

Corey D. Smith Memorial Service
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Noon
Saint Paul's Baptist Church
4247 Creighton Road
Richmond, Virginia 23223
804-643-4000

Corey D. Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund
PO Box 27692
Richmond, Virginia 23261

More info in our Lions Fan Forum in the main menu.

24 Hour Hockey Game for the Assist Program

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-03-10

24 Hour Hockey Game for the Assist Program
On March 21, The Assist Program will be hosting a 24-hour hockey game at South Windsor Arena to raise money for the ASSIST program. This promises to be a fun family-oriented event for anyone who wants to help others enjoy the great game of hockey.

The format for the game is simple. Each team will face off for one hour in a refereed three-on-three game. Players will be provided with bibs upon their arrival. Scores will be kept for each game as well as a final tally for each side throughout the 24-hour period.

For more details go to our WMHA Fan Forum on the main menu bar.

The Stanley Cup is Coming to the WFCU Centre on Thursday!

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-03-10

(Windsor) The Windsor Spitfires are proud to announce that the Stanley Cup will be on display for fans at this Thursday’s home game versus the Plymouth Whalers.

Game time is set for 7:05 p.m at the WFCU Centre.

Fans will have the opportunity to take pictures with the cup during the pre-game and first intermission from the Spitfires fan photo area in the arena’s concourse.

RED WINGS MOURN THE PASSING OF COLLEEN HOWE

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-03-06

Detroit, MI…The Detroit Red Wings mourn the passing of Colleen Howe, Mrs. Hockey, wife of Red Wings great, Gordie Howe. Colleen passed today at the Howe’s home in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan following a courageous battle with Pick’s disease, an incurable neurological form of dementia. She was 76.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Gordie, Mark, Marty, Cathy, Murray and the entire Howe family,” said Red Wings owners Mike and Marian Ilitch. “Colleen was a pioneer hockey wife and hockey mom and devoted her entire life to the betterment of the game. She will be sincerely missed by us and all who knew her.”

Funeral arrangements are to be announced.

More on Mrs. Hockey in our Red Wings Fan Forum.

Windsor Spitfire Engelage Chases Most Wins in a Season

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-03-06

March 6, 2009
Andrew Engelage of the Windsor Spitfires is one win away from tying the single season record for most wins by a goaltender.

The current record of 45 was set by Steve Mason in the 2006-07 season with the London Knights. On March 5, in a win over Sault Ste. Marie, Engelage won game number 44 on the season which ties Adam Dennis who accomplished the same mark in 2005-06 with the London Knights.

Engelage, a 20-year-old from Oshawa, ON, has an outstanding record of 44-4-0-1 this season with five shutouts. The Spitfires have five games remaining in the regular season.

For more OHL action check out our Fan forum in the main menu

ALLEN IVERSON TO MISS TWO WEEKS WITH SORE BACK

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-03-04

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The Detroit Pistons announced today that guard Allen Iverson will miss the next two weeks due to a sore back at the request of doctors at Georgetown University.

Iverson’s condition was evaluated at Georgetown today and it was recommended that he suspend basketball related activities for two weeks. He will not travel with the team to prevent stress on his back and will be re-evaluated again by the doctors at Georgetown following the conclusion of the two-week period.

The doctors at Georgetown University have been in contact with the Pistons’ medical staff and Iverson will begin treatment for his sore back upon his return to Detroit on Thursday.

For more Pistons blogs check our Pistons Fan Forum.

TICKET GIVEAWAY

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-03-03

In Play! magazine is giving away FIVE pair of tickets for this Thursday's (March 5) X-Treme International Ice Racing Championships at the Palace of Auburn Hills.

These bikes have over 2000 metal studs added to the tires and there are NO BRAKES!

0-60 MPH in 3 seconds...ON ICE!

For more info visit www.xiir.com

The first FIVE readers to email info@michiganinplay.com with "X-TREME TICKETS" in the subject line will win a pair of tickets.

Must be 19 or older, able to pick up tickets at will call at the Palace of Auburn Hills. One pair per winner.

"IT PAYS TO READ IN PLAY! MAGAZINE"

STATEMENT FROM THE DETROIT LIONS

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-03-01

“We are closely monitoring the Coast Guard reports involving a missing fishing boat off the Gulf Coast of Florida.

“We have been informed by the Coast Guard that one of the passengers is Corey Smith, who played for the Lions the past three seasons.

“We will continue to gather more information, while maintaining constant communication with the Coast Guard and local Florida authorities.

“First and foremost, however, is that our thoughts and prayers are with all the passengers, their families and all those involved in the search efforts.

“We will provide further updates when more information becomes available.”
---------------------------------------

As a courtesy, we are also providing the following press release that was distributed by the United States Coast Guard earlier today.

Coast Guard continues search for 4 missing boaters

CLEARWATER, Fla. - The Coast Guard continues its search for four missing boaters about 50 miles west of Clearwater Pass Sunday.

Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg, Fla., received a call at about 1: 30 a.m., Sunday, reporting that four friends, Victor "Marquis" Cooper, Nick Skyler, Corey Smith and William Bleakley did not return from their fishing trip as expected. The four boaters left at about 6:30 a.m., Saturday, from the Seminole Boat Ramp in Clearwater Pass, in a 21-foot center console boat.

A Coast Guard 47-foot motor-life boat crew from Station Sand Key, Fla., HH-60 Jayhawk helicopter and C-130 Hercules fixed-wing aircrews from Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater, and the Coast Guard Cutter Crocodile are searching a 750-square mile area west of Clearwater Pass for the missing boaters. An Urgent Mariner Information Broadcast (UMIB) is also being transmitted on marine VHF radio channel 16.

If anyone has any information regarding this case they are asked to call Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg at or by marine VHF radio channel 16.

Wings To Open 09/10 Season in Stockholm, Sweden

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-02-19

FOUR NHL TEAMS TO OPEN THE 2009-10 REGULAR SEASON IN EUROPE OCT. 2-3

“NHL Premiere 2009” Features Detroit Red Wings And St. Louis Blues Playing Two Games In Stockholm; Chicago Blackhawks And Florida Panthers Playing Twice In Helsinki
Third Consecutive Year NHL Starts Regular Season Overseas

New York/Toronto/Stockholm/Helsinki (February 19, 2008) – The National Hockey League (NHL) and the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA), in cooperation with Live Nation Sweden, IMG Sweden and Harry Harkimo/Jokerit HC Oy in Finland, announced today that the Detroit Red Wings, St. Louis Blues, Chicago Blackhawks and Florida Panthers will open the 2009-2010 NHL regular season in Europe. The Blackhawks and Panthers will play home-and-home games Friday, Oct. 2, and Saturday, Oct. 3, in Helsinki, Finland, at Hartwall Areena. On those same dates, the Red Wings and Blues will play a home-and-home series at Ericsson Globe Arena in Stockholm, Sweden. Finland and Sweden are the top ranked countries in terms of overseas visitors to NHL.com.

You can read the entire story in our Red Wings Fan Forum located in the main menu bar.

OHL to Present Annual Award in Honour of Mickey Renaud

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-02-05

“The Ontario Hockey League is very proud to take this opportunity to honour the memory of a young man that meant a great deal to the league, the Spitfires and his community,” said OHL Commissioner David Branch. “Mickey set a very high standard for the commitment, character and community spirit that is necessary for a team captain and provides a great example for his peers.”

Read the complete story in our OHL fan forum in the main menu

Red Bull Air Races Returns...To WIndsor This Time!

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-02-03

Red Bull Air Races Returns...To WIndsor This Time!

2009 RED BULL AIR RACE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP READY FOR TAKE OFF
World’s fastest motorsport announces pilots, locations and new race format
for 2009

Salzburg, Austria – February 3, 2009 – Fifteen of the world’s top race
pilots, including four rookies from four corners of the globe, will compete
in the Red Bull Air Race World Championship in 2009, which will touch down
in six spectacular locations beginning with the traditional season opener
in Abu Dhabi on April 17 and 18.

The world’s most exciting motorsport will then move to North America for
races in San Diego, USA and Windsor in Ontario, Canada, before returning
back across the Atlantic to Europe for stops in Budapest, Porto and
Barcelona, marking a much-anticipated return to the enchanting Spanish city
on the Mediterranean.

2009 Red Bull Air Race World Championship – RACE CALENDAR

Abu Dhabi (UAE) April 17 & 18
San Diego (USA) May 9 & 10
Windsor, Ontario (Canada) June 13 & 14
Budapest (Hungary) August 19 & 20
Porto (Portugal) September 12 & 13
Barcelona (Spain) October 3 & 4

RED WINGS RECALL LEINO AND DOWNEY PLACE STUART ON INJURED RESERVE

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-01-29

… Veteran Defenseman Still Suffering From Injury To Ribs…

Detroit, MI…The Detroit Red Wings today recalled forwards Ville Leino and Aaron Downey from the Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League. The club also placed defenseman Brad Stuart on Injured Reserve.

Leino, 25, is currently second on the Griffins roster in scoring with 37 points in 44 games (11-26—37). He appeared in eight preseason game for Detroit finishing with six points (3-3—6) and a +3 rating. He was signed by the Red Wings as a free agent on May 10, 2008.

Downey, 34, has six points (2-4—6) and 71 PIM in 44 games for Grand Rapids this season. He appeared in 56 games for the Red Wings during the 2007-08 season, finishing with three points (0-3—3) and a team high 116 PIM. He was re-signed to a one-year, two-way contract on August 20, 2008.

Check out our Red Wings fan forum in the main menu for all your up to date news.

RED WINGS SIGN HENRIK ZETTERBERG TO MONSTER TWELVE-YEAR DEAL!

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-01-28

RED WINGS SIGN HENRIK ZETTERBERG TO TWELVE-YEAR DEAL
…Star Forward To Stay In Hockeytown Through 2020-21…

Detroit, MI… Detroit Red Wings General Manager Ken Holland announced today that the club has signed forward Henrik Zetterberg to a twelve-year contract. In keeping with team policy, additional terms of the deal were not disclosed. The twelve-year pact represents the longest deal in club history.

Zetterberg, 28, is currently in his sixth season in the National Hockey League. He has played all 400 games of his career in a Red Wings uniform. In 45 games this season, the star forward has collected 17 goals and 26 assists for 43 points. He has developed into one of the most dynamic two-way players in the National Hockey League. Last season, Zetterberg set new career-highs with 43 goals (5th NHL), 49 assists (21st NHL), 92 points (6th NHL) and 358 shots on goal (2nd NHL). He was also a finalist for the Selke Trophy as the NHL’s best defensive forward and won the 2008 Conn Smythe Trophy as playoffs MVP.

“Henrik is one of the world’s premier players at both ends of the ice” said Holland. “This is a tremendous commitment on the part of the organization as well as by Henrik. We feel he is moving into the prime of his career and is another key to ensuring the long-term success of this franchise. We are thrilled that a player we drafted and developed will play out his career in Detroit with this lifetime contract.”

Originally a seventh round selection (210th overall) of the Red Wings in the 1999 NHL Entry Draft, Zetterberg led all rookies in 2002-03 with 22 goals and 44 points, and was named to the NHL’s All-Rookie Team. He was also the runner-up for the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s Rookie of the Year (Barrett Jackman, St. Louis).

CONGRATULATIONS HANK FROM IN PLAY! MAGAZINE!!!!

For more detials on the MONSTER signing check our Red Wings fans forUms in the main menu!

SPARTANS BATTLE WOLVERINES TOMORROW AT THE JOE

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-01-22

SPARTANS BATTLE WOLVERINES TOMORROW AT THE JOE
…Shoot For A Cure Silent Auction Will Help Fight Children’s Cancer…

Detroit… Only one day remains before college hockey’s fiercest rivalry takes the ice when the Michigan State Spartans host the Michigan Wolverines at 7:30 p.m. Friday, January 23 at Joe Louis Arena (FSN-Plus).

The Spartans currently hold a 7-14-3 record (4-10-2-2 CCHA) and the No.8-ranked Wolverines are 16-8-0 (10-6-0-0 CCHA). Michigan looks to continue their winning streak having won their last seven games overall at “The Joe”. Michigan State will fight to close the gap in the teams’ all-time series at Joe Louis Arena with the maize and blue posting a 17-20-5 record over the green and white.

Fans attending Friday night’s match-up will have the opportunity to bid on an array of sports memorabilia through a silent auction to benefit “Shoot for a Cure”. Items include memorabilia autographed by former Spartans and Wolverines now playing professional hockey and other hockey items from teams throughout the NHL. The silent auction, sponsored by Michigan State, will take place on the Joe Louis Arena concourse through the end of the second intermission.

“Shoot for a Cure” was started by former Spartan and Detroit Red Wings draft pick Justin Abdelkader and current Michigan State senior Daniel Sturges and is currently in its second season. Every dollar collected through “Shoot for a Cure” goes directly to Cure Kids Cancer at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing.

Be sure to always check out our fan fourms for your up to date sports news from around Windsor and Detroit.

LIONS HIRE GUNTHER CUNNINGHAM AS DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-01-21

LIONS HIRE GUNTHER CUNNINGHAM AS DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR

Allen Park, Mich.— Detroit Lions Head Coach Jim Schwartz has announced the hiring of Gunther Cunningham as the Lions’ defensive coordinator. Terms of his contract were not disclosed.

Cunningham is a 40-year coaching veteran on the college and pro levels, including the past 27 seasons in the NFL. As an NFL coach, he has served 10 seasons as a defensive coordinator and two seasons as head coach, and during his time in the NFL he has worked with linebackers and defensive line in 16 of those seasons.

Complete article on our Lions Fan Forum on the main menu.

Spitfires Announce “White Out” Night

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-01-19

Spitfires Announce “White Out” Night for Thursday’s Game at the WFCU Centre!

(Windsor) The Windsor Spitfires encourage fans to wear white as part of “White Out Night” at the WFCU Centre and to also make signs in support of the team and the City of Windsor for the Thursday, January 22nd home game versus the Sudbury Wolves. The game will be televised live nationally on Rogers Sportsnet. Game time is set for 7:05 p.m.

MONSTER JAM FREE TICKETS ($40 VALUE)

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-01-15

"IT PAYS TO READ IN PLAY! MAGAZINE"

WE ARE GIVING AWAY FREE TICKETS TO THE MONSTER JAM
THIS SATURDAY JAN 17, 2009
FORD FIELD
7:30 PM.

TICKETS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PICK UP AT
COBO JOE'S BAR & GRILL
422 W CONGRESS
DOWNTOWN DETROIT

TO GET YOUR FREE TICKETS SIMPLY CLICK ON OUR CONTACT PAGE IN THE MAIN MENU AND FILL OUT OUR GENERAL INQUIRY FORM AND WRITE "REQUESTING MONSTER JAM TICKETS" AND YOU WILL BE ON YOUR WAY!

FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED-QUANTITIES ARE LIMITED

Details for 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-01-13

Details for 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic
Spitfires Announce Special Details for 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic Events!

(Windsor) At a press conference conducted earlier today, the Windsor Spitfires and OHL All-Star Committee made several exciting announcements with regards to the 2009 Subway OHL All-Star Classic, hosted at the WFCU Centre from February 2nd – 4th, 2009.

Master of Ceremonies Steve Bell from AM800’s Morning Drive kicked things off by welcoming all guests attending today’s conference. Details for the star-studded Sun Life Financial All-Star Luncheon were then announced.

The OHL All-Star Skills Competition will be held from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 3rd at the WFCU Centre and will feature events such as the hardest shot competition, fastest skater, shooting accuracy, team relay race and a breakaway shootout just to name a few. The Half-Time Show will follow the skills competition from 8:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m, featuring feature local recording sensation Jody Raffoul, a pop-rock singer and songwriter who performs over 200 shows a year and has opened for many well known musical acts including Kid Rock, Nickelback, Collective Soul and most recently Bon Jovi.

Check out our OHL Fan Forum (main menu bar) for complete story

Old Time Hockey Slowly Slipping Away.

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2009-01-10

Gone are the days of Scotty Bowman telling reporters a player has a leg injury when it's actually his shoulder or that a concussion is really a pulled groin.

A new directive from the NHL states:
"Clubs no longer are required to disclose the specific nature of player injuries. Clubs are, however, required to disclose that a player is expected to miss a game due to injury, or will not return to a game following an injury. Clubs are prohibited from providing untruthful information about the nature of a player injury or otherwise misrepresenting a player’s condition."

Next thing you know there won't be any fighting in the game...oh, wait a minute.

DETROIT LIONS COACHING STAFF FIRED!

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-12-29

WILLIAM CLAY FORD PROMOTES TOM LEWAND TO TEAM PRESIDENT AND MARTIN MAYHEW TO GENERAL MANAGER; ROD MARINELLI RELIEVED OF DUTIES AS HEAD COACH

Allen Park, Mich. - Detroit Lions Owner and Chairman William Clay Ford announced the following today:

The promotion of Tom Lewand to Team President.
The promotion of Martin Mayhew to General Manager.
Rod Marinelli has been relieved of his duties as Head Coach.
The following assistant coaches will not be retained: Joe Barry (Defensive Coordinator), Mike Barry (Assistant Offensive Line) and Jimmy Lake (Secondary). The contract of Joe Cullen (Defensive Line) will not be renewed.

The team also announced that Jim Colletto has been re-assigned to offensive line coach.

Additionally, Dave Boller (Assistant Director of Pro Personnel) will not be retained.

We look forward to your comments in our Lions Fan Forums in the main menu.

Tickets for Celine Dion at Caesars Windsor

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-12-17

Celine Dion tickets
WE'VE GOT EM!

The Colosseum At Caesars Windsor
Windsor, Canada
Sat, Feb 7 2009
9:00 PM

Click on the "TICKETS" link above.

TIGERS ACQUIRE GERALD LAIRD FROM TEXAS RANGERS

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-12-08

TIGERS ACQUIRE GERALD LAIRD FROM TEXAS RANGERS

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has acquired catcher Gerald Laird from the Texas Rangers in exchange for righthanded pitchers Carlos Melo and Guillermo Moscoso.

Laird saw action in 95 games for the Rangers in 2008, batting .276 (95x344) with 24 doubles, six home runs and 41 RBI. He hit .305 (25x82) with seven doubles, two home runs and 14 RBI in 21 games against clubs from the American League Central Division this past season.

“The Tigers organization is pleased to acquire Gerald Laird from the Texas Rangers,” Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski said. “He is a solid addition to our club offensively, defensively and with his ability to handle a pitching staff at the major league level.”

In six seasons at the major league level with Texas, Laird hit .255 (312x1225) with 72 doubles, 25 home runs and 134 RBI in 374 games. During his major league career, he has compiled a .984 fielding percentage behind the plate, while he has thrown out 36.6 percent of baserunners attempting to steal (96x262).

Melo appeared in 14 games (13 starts) with the Dominican Summer League Tigers in 2008, posting a 3-3 record and 5.14 ERA (49.0IP/28ER). Melo’s contract will be assigned to the Dominican Summer League Rangers by Texas.

Moscoso split the past season between Single A Lakeland and Double A Erie. He posted a 2-3 record and 2.42 ERA (52.0IP/14ER) in 15 appearances (six starts) with Lakeland. In six starts with Erie, Moscoso finished 3-1 with a 3.12 ERA (34.2IP/12ER).

FOR MORE GREAT TIGERS INSIDE INFO CHECK OUT OUR TIGERS FAN FORUM IN THE MAIN MENU.

Avery Out $126,000 For 15 Second Outburst!

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-12-05

In Play! Magazine took part in teleconference today with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman concerning the six game suspension of Sean Avery for his comments in Calgary this past week.

When asked about how he determined the length of the suspension Bettman says, "It was the appropriate response."

Does Avery face more punishment from his team? Bettman says, "It's up to the Dallas Stars whether or not they suspend him further"

Bettman says the NHL does not tolerate this type of behavior and was concerned that parents of small children would have to explain to them what sloppy seconds means and this is not how the NHL wants to portray itself.

According to Bettman Avery has been warned several times by the NHL within the last year including Colin Campbell and Bettman himself!

While listening to Bettman it seems Avery is skating on thin ice with the NHL brass and the next incident could prove more costly than just six games, Bettman says "Players in this league are held accountable on and off the ice."

An ESPN reporter asked if this had been Avery's first offence would he still have received the six game sit down to which Bettman replied "He (Avery) was warned by the NHL twice already."

So where does this leave Avery now that he's in the limelight?

Bettman says "Avery will be held to a higher standard as a repeat offender."

Bettman says he found out about the Avery comments almost instantly. He has two monitors on his desk that are on constantly and that bad news travels fast.
The Commissioner goes on to say, "Somebody in the office told me to punch this up (link) on my screen and that I wasn't going to like it."

Avery just signed a four year $15.5 million contract with the Stars this past summer so his current suspension (not including endorsement deals) breaks down to around $21,000 per game or $126,000 for his comment.

I wonder if it was worth it?

CHRIS CHELIOS TO GRAND RAPIDS

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-12-04

RED WINGS ASSIGN DEFENSEMAN CHRIS CHELIOS TO GRAND RAPIDS

… Veteran Sent Down On Conditioning Loan …

Detroit, MI…The Detroit Red Wings today assigned veteran defenseman Chris Chelios to the Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League on a conditioning loan. Chelios has been sidelined since suffering a broken right tibia in an exhibition game at Montreal on September 30.

Chelios, 46, is a 25-year NHL veteran and is currently in his 10th season with the Red Wings. His 1,616 games played ranks first all-time among American born players and sixth all-time in NHL history. He signed a one-year deal to return to the Red Wings in September.

FREE GRETCHEN WILSON CONCERT TICKETS

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-11-24

FREE TICKETS - GRETCHEN WILSON (Dec 4th@Palace)

WE'RE LOOKING FOR 10 BEAUTIFUL GIRLS FOR OUR "GIRLS IN PLAY!" PHOTO CONTEST.

In Play! Magazine is giving away 10 PRIZE PACKS which include 4 tickets for the Gretchen Wilson concert December 4th at the Palace of Auburn Hills.

All you need to do is sign up for our "Girls In Play!" photo contest...That's it!

There are lots of other GREAT prizes for the contest but these tickets are just for signing up.

This ticket promotion only goes until this Wednesday Nov 26th!!!!!
So don't wait sign up today!

Gentlemen...please pass this along to all the beautiful girls you know! Maybe she might take you?

Tickets will be ready for pick up at Will Call.

COPY/PASTE THIS LINK INTO YOUR BROWSER OR CLICK ON THE LINK IN THE MAIN MENU.
www.michiganinplay.com/girls_in_play_register.php

Stanley Cup Special Issue Now Available

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-11-15

Great Interviews with
Al Sobotka - JLA's Zamboni Wizard
#16 Dave Hanson of the Hanson Brotherso On Slapshot III
WRIF's Rock Girl - Cristy Lee Races Her R6 at 120 MPH
***********************
Dr. Gregory Roche on Laser Therapy
******************************
*New* UFC column by John Pollock of the Fight Network
**********************************************
And of course an in depth review of last season's Stanley Cup Victory and great photos from the banner raising ceremony.

CLICK ON THE COVER PHOTO FOR THE NEW ISSUE!!!

DETAILS ON THE 2009 OHL ALL-STAR CLASSIC IN WINDSOR

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-10-30

DETAILS ON THE 2009 OHL ALL-STAR CLASSIC IN WINDSOR

Details of the 2009 Ontario Hockey League’s
All-Star Classic in Windsor Announced!

(Windsor) In conjunction with the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), the 2009 Windsor Spitfires All-Star committee announced details for this year’s 2009 OHL All-Star Classic at a press conference conducted earlier today at the Windsor Family Credit Union Centre (WFCU) in Windsor, ON. The OHL All-Star Game and related festivities will be hosted at the WFCU Centre from Monday, February 2nd to Wednesday, February 4th, 2009. Subway Restaurants will be the official presenting sponsor of the 2009 OHL All-Star Classic, with All Weather Windows and Boston Pizza serving as sponsors.

Master of Ceremonies and AM800 CKLW’s Steve Bell along with Windsor Spitfires President and Head Coach Bob Boughner, Spitfires Vice-President and General Manager Warren Rychel, Windsor Mayor Eddie Francis and the Chairman of SFAFT Chuck Roy spoke during the conference to provide members of media and specially invited guests with information on various events being offered as part of the three-day OHL All-Star event.

Read the full story in our Fan Forums under Sean Baligian's page.

GRANDERSON TO BE FIRST CURRENT MLB PLAYER TO TOUR CHINA

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-10-20

CURTIS GRANDERSON TO BE FIRST CURRENT MLB PLAYER TO TOUR CHINA AS MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL AMBASSADOR

Curtis Granderson, center fielder for the Detroit Tigers, will become the first current MLB player to tour China promoting the game of baseball when he journeys to Shanghai and Beijing from October 19th to 26th, 2008. Granderson has served as an MLB Ambassador twice over the past two years, making trips to England, the Netherlands and Italy in 2006 and South Africa in 2007.

On October 22nd, Granderson will open his third tour by making an appearance with the Shanghai Eagles of the China Baseball Association (CBA), the country’s six-team professional league. He will also lead clinics for school children who are involved in the MLB International Play Ball! Program which introduces the game of baseball as a part of the school’s physical education curriculum. On October 23rd, Granderson will join the broadcast team at Shanghai Media Group for an in-game interview during the second game of the 2008 World Series. Closing out the Shanghai portion of his MLB Ambassador Tour, in the afternoon Granderson will conduct an instructional clinic with the Fudan University baseball team.

On October 24th, Granderson will make his way to Beijing, where he will be the feature instructor at two Play Ball! clinics over his two-day stay. The American Chamber in China will hold a World Series reception in the evening where Granderson will be the featured guest...

Full story in our Tigers Fan Forum in the main tool bar.

DETROIT LIONS TRADE WR ROY WILLIAMS TO DALLAS COWBOYS

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-10-14

DETROIT LIONS TRADE WR ROY WILLIAMS TO DALLAS COWBOYS

Allen Park, Mich. -Detroit Lions General Manager Martin Mayhew announced today that the team has acquired the Dallas Cowboys' first-, third- and sixth-round 2009 draft choices in exchange for WR Roy Williams and the Lions' 2009 seventh-round draft choice.

Williams (6-3, 212) emerged as one of the NFL's elite receivers in his first four-plus seasons with Detroit. In 60 games (56 starts) for the Lions, he had 262 receptions, 3,884 receiving yards (14.5 avg) and 29 touchdowns. Williams finishes his Lions' career seventh in all-time receiving yards, 10th in receptions and seventh in receiving touchdowns...

Read the rest of the story in our Lions Fan Forum on the main menu bar

Exclusive Wings Banner Raisning Photos

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-10-10

Hey Red Wings fans!

We have exclusive photos taken by In Play! magazine on the ice last night at the Wings home opener against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Unfortunately the home team lost but check out our photos from the ice and from the locker room after the game.

Photo gallery is located on the main menu.

RED WINGS BANNER RAISING

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-10-08

In Play! magazine will be on the ice tomorrow taking pictures of the banner raising ceremony.

we also have a crew at the Def Leppard NHL ROCKS inaugural kick off at the Fox!

Check in Friday for pictures in our photo gallery.

YEAH WE GOT THAT!

BANNER RAISING CEREMONY TO HONOR 2007-08 STANLEY CUP CHAMPION DETROIT RED WINGS

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-10-06

BANNER RAISING CEREMONY TO HONOR 2007-08 STANLEY CUP CHAMPION DETROIT RED WINGS

Fan Asked To Arrive Early For 7PM Opening Night Ceremony Thursday…
Banner Replica Giveaway To All Fans In Attendance

Detroit, MI… The Detroit Red Wings will kick-off the 2008-09 regular season Thursday, October 9th at Joe Louis Arena with a special pre-game banner raising ceremony to honor the 2007-08 Stanley Cup Champion Detroit Red Wings.

Fans are asked to arrive early for the special on-ice ceremony before the puck drops against the Toronto Maple Leafs at 7:00 pm ET (VS, CBC).

Members and management of the 2008-09 Detroit Red Wings will be formally introduced during the on-ice presentation prior to the raising of the Championship banner...

Read more in our Red Wings Fan Forum in the Main Menu.

DETROIT SHOCK CELEBRATE 2008 WNBA CHAMPIONSHIP

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-10-05

DETROIT SHOCK CELEBRATE 2008 WNBA CHAMPIONSHIP
Noon Rally Scheduled For Campus Martius On Monday October 6

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – IT’S A CHAMPIONSHIP PARTY AND EVERYONE’S INVITED!

The 2008 WNBA Champion Detroit Shock are inviting everyone in the area downtown to Campus Martius at 12 noon on Monday to help them celebrate their three-game sweep of the San Antonio Silver Stars.

On Monday, October 6, starting at Noon, Mayor Kenneth Cockrell Jr. along with the Detroit Shock players, Head Coach Bill Laimbeer, assistant coaches, team administrators and other dignitaries from the City of Detroit and the State of Michigan will be in attendance to honor the three-time World Champion Detroit Shock.

Congratulations Detroit Shock!

CHELIOS OUT THREE TO SIX WEEKS WITH FRACTURED TIBIA

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-10-02

CHELIOS OUT THREE TO SIX WEEKS WITH FRACTURED TIBIA
3:30PM Thursday October 2, 2008

…Leg Injury Occurred During Tuesday Night’s Game In Montreal…

Detroit, MI…The Detroit Red Wings announced today that defenseman Chris Chelios has suffered a fractured right tibia and will be out of the Detroit lineup for three to six weeks. Chelios suffered the injury while blocking a shot during the third period of Tuesday night’s game against the Montreal Canadiens.

Chelios, 46, is entering his 25th season in the National Hockey League and his 10th as a member of the Detroit Red Wings. He signed a one-year contract to remain in Detroit on September 9th. His 1,616 career games played ranks first all-time among American born players and sixth all-time in NHL history.

Read more in our Red Wings Fan Forum in the main menu

NEW LIONS SPECIAL ISSUE OUT NOW!

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-09-30

CHECK OUR OCTOBER SPECIAL LIONS ISSUE FEATURING A 16 PAGE SECTION DEVOTED TO OUR FAVORITE FOOTBALL TEAM... THROUGH THICK AND THIN.

CLICK ON THE COVER TO THE LEFT.

OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM LIONS ON THE MATT MILLEN FIRING

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-09-24

OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM DETROIT LIONS ON THE MATT MILLEN FIRING

MATT MILLEN RELIEVED OF DUTIES AS LIONS PRESIDENT AND CEO

Allen Park, Mich.—Detroit Lions Owner and Chairman William Clay Ford announced today that Matt Millen has been relieved of his duties as President and CEO effective immediately.

Executive Vice President and COO Tom Lewand will now report directly to Mr. Ford on all business, organizational and NFL matters.

Martin Mayhew will assume the role of General Manager and report directly to Mr. Ford on all football matters. Additionally, Cedric Saunders has been named the Vice President of Football Operations.

“I have relieved Matt Millen of his duties effective immediately,” said Lions Owner and Chairman William Clay Ford. “I believe that this decision is in the best interest of this organization. I appreciate Matt’s efforts. Matt worked tirelessly during his tenure to win, and he would be the first one to tell you that you have to win in this league. It just didn’t work out...

Read full article in our Lions Fan Forum on the main menu.

DEF LEPPARD TO ROCK THE FOX FOR WINGS OPENER!

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-09-19

DEF LEPPARD TO ROCK THE FOX FOR WINGS OPENER!

(DETROIT– September 19, 2008) — The National Hockey League (NHL) will launch the 2008-09 season with NHL Face-Off Rocks™ 2008, an opening day spectacular headlined by the world’s greatest arena rock band, Def Leppard, at the Fox Theatre at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, October 9.

For all the details check out our Red Wings Fan Forum in the main menu.

New Additions To In Play! Writing Staff.

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-09-16

Att: Detroit and Windsor Sports Fans

This month was a great month for us here at In Play! and the upcoming issue is going to be a knock out Lions Special Edition.

They're only 0-2...have faith Lions fans!

Anyway we would like to welcome to our team the following...

Sean Baligian from 1130 am WDFN "The Fan" joins our Fan Forum and will blog the entire OHL season so check him out and chat him up!

Matt Dumochelle morning host of 100.7 FM "The Rock" also joins In Play! and pens a monthly column along with blogging in the Fan Forums.
Drop by and see what Windsor's popular rock jock has to say.

Last but not least Bob Bellacicco sports reporter for "A" News Windsor joins In Play! to contribute a monthly opinion piece and blog blog blog!
You can catch Bellacicco nightly at 6 and 11PM on cable 6, Windsor.

Check out In Play! magazine's All-Star writing team in the magazine and in our Fan Forums (Main Menu Bar)
Don't forget to bookmark us for easy access.

If you're into Windsor and Detroit sports. You're In Play!

Cheers
Jack Rosenberg
Publisher
In Play! Magazine

SPITFIRES “FINAL YEAR AT THE BARN” HOME OPENER PARTY

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-09-16

Spitfires “Final Year at the Barn” Home Opener Party in the
Water World Parking Lot – Sep. 25, 2008

(Windsor) The Windsor Spitfires, AM800 CKLW, McDonald’s, The Beach Sports Bar and Grill, Molson’s and Festival Tent & Party Rentals Inc. will be hosting the “Final Year at the Barn” pre-game party in the Water World parking lot located on the east side of Windsor Arena before the Spitfires home opening game on Thursday, September 25th from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

The party will feature a beer tent sponsored by Molson and the Beach Sports Bar and Grill, with 89X Radio on-site. The McDonald’s Sports Zone will also be part of the party and the Windsor Spitfires will host a family activity tent, providing complimentary tattoos to children. Steve Bell and Paul MacDonald of AM800 CKLW will also be hosting a special pre-game show from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. on-air.

Read more in our OHL Fan Forum in the main menu.

RED WINGS RE-SIGN DEFENSEMEN CHRIS CHELIOS

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-09-09

Tuesday Sept 9, 2008
5:28PM

RED WINGS RE-SIGN DEFENSEMEN CHRIS CHELIOS AND KYLE QUINCEY TO NEW DEALS

…Detroit continues to bolster an already deep blue-line…

Detroit, MI… Detroit Red Wings General Manager Ken Holland announced today that the club has re-signed two defensemen, inking Chris Chelios to a one-year deal and Kyle Quincey to a two-year deal. In keeping with team policy, additional terms of each deal were not disclosed.

Chelios is entering his 25th season in the National Hockey League and 10th with the Red Wings. In 2007-08, Chelios became the oldest U.S. born player and second oldest player in NHL history (Gordie Howe). He moved into sixth place on the all-time games played list with 1,616. During the 2008 playoffs he passed Patrick Roy to become the all-time leader in postseason games played (260). Chelios leads all active NHL defensemen in assists (763) and points (948).

More in the Red Wings fan forum pages.

DALLAS DRAKE RETIRES AFTER 15 NHL SEASONS

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-07-15

Detroit, MI… Red Wings forward Dallas Drake announced today that he will retire from the National Hockey League after 15 seasons. Drake played for the Winnipeg Jets, Phoenix Coyotes, St. Louis Blues and Detroit Red Wings during his NHL career.

The complete story is available on the Red Wings page in our Fan Forum in the main menu bar.

Detroit & Ann Arbor Are Finalists in SportsCenter's “TitleTown USA” Contest

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-07-11

Two Michigan cities – Detroit and Ann Arbor – have been named among the 20 finalists in SportsCenter’s “TitleTown USA” contest on ESPN. The “TitleTown USA” series will name the nation’s top sports town through a process that included fan-generated nominations on ESPN.com, a panel of judges who pared down the nominations, and – ultimately - online voting by fans. The winning city will be unveiled on SportsCenter on Sunday, July 27 at 11 p.m. ET.

“’TitleTown USA’ is another great opportunity for SportsCenter to interact with sports fans,” said Mark Gross, senior vice president and managing editor, studio production. “Along the way, the series will raise some topical debate, refocus attention to the unique relationships fans have with their teams, and tell great stories that connect the heartstrings of well-known, and perhaps not-so-well-known, teams to their towns.”

For the complete story and complete details on find out how to vote for Detroit or Ann Arbor check out the "General Discussions" in our Forums in the main menu bar.

Probert & Kocur Q&A This 7/10/08

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-07-06

MIP will be conducting and exclusive interview with Red Wings enforcers Bob Probert AND Joey Kocur this Thursday night July 10 and again with Bob Probert by himself on Sunday July 13.

MIP will use the questions our readers submit in the MIP Fan Forum and we will get them answered for you.

Bob and Joe are promoting their new book
"The Bruise Brothers...Hockey's Heavyweight Champions"

Simply click on the "FORUMS" button in the main menu bar go to the Red Wings page, enter the "Probert and Kocur Q&A" page and submit your questions.

This is your chance to ask your favorite tough guys...
"Who was your toughest fight?"
"Why did you guys fight each other?"
"What are you doing now?"

Don't miss this opportunity!

WINGS AND MARIAN HOSSA AGREE TO TERMS

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-07-02

BREAKING NEWS!
July 2 2008 1:54PM

Veteran Forward Agrees to One-Year Deal With Detroit Red Wings

Detroit, MI… Detroit Red Wings general manager Ken Holland announced today that the club has agreed to terms with forward Marian Hossa on a one-year contract. In keeping with team policy, additional terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Hossa, 29, was a first round draft pick of the Ottawa Senators in the 1997 NHL Entry Draft. The 10-year veteran has scored 299 goals and added 349 assists for 648 points in 701 career NHL games for the Ottawa Senators, Atlanta Thrashers and Pittsburgh Penguins. He reached the 100 point mark (43-57-100) in 2006-07 with Atlanta. Hossa scored 30 or more goals in six straight seasons from 2000-01 through 2006-07, and topped the 40 goal plateau twice (45 in 2002-03 with Ottawa and 43 in 2006-07 with Atlanta). He finished third in NHL postseason scoring in 2007-08 with Pittsburgh (12 goals, 14 assists - 26 points).

Please check out our Red Wings Fan Forum as more details become available.

Wings Free Agent Activities

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-07-01

July 1, 2008 - 12:53 PM
Detroit Red Wings general manager Ken Holland announced today that the club has agreed to terms with former Penguins backup netminder Ty Conklin on a one-year contract.

The Wings also announced today that the club has signed defenseman Brad Stuart to a four-year contract.

Get the full story in our Red Wings Fan Forum in the main menu bar.

Ordonez Placed on 15-day DL

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-06-29

June 29 12:26PM

The Tigers today placed outfielder Magglio Ordonez on the 15-day disabled list with a pulled oblique.

The club recalled the contract of outfielder Matt Joyce from Triple A Toledo to take Ordonez's spot on the 25-man roster.

Tigers Trade Pitcher For Pitcher

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-06-25

The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has acquired righthanded pitcher Kyle Pearson from the Pittsburgh Pirates, in exchange for righthanded pitcher Denny Bautista.

Pearson saw action with both Single A Lynchburg and Double A Altoona this season in the Pirates organization, appearing in 16 games. He earned four saves during his 11 outings with Lynchburg.

A fourth-round selection of the Pirates in the 2003 MLB First-Year Player Draft, Pearson has compiled a 13-27 record, 4.95 ERA (351.0IP/193ER) and 12 saves in 118 games at the minor league level. He was named to the South Atlantic League’s mid-season all-star squad in 2007.

Bautista’s contract was designated for assignment by the Tigers on June 20.

INGE PLACED ON DL, SARDINHA'S CONTRACT PURCHASED

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-06-25

June 25: 3:10 pm
The Tigers today placed catcher/third baseman Brandon Inge on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to June 23, with a pulled oblique.

To take Inge’s spot on the 25-man roster, the club today purchased the contract of catcher Dane Sardinha from Triple A Toledo.

Sardinha will wear uniform number 57.

MEECH NAMED RED WINGS’ ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-06-25

Detroit Red Wings defenseman Derek Meech has been named the 2007-08 Detroit Red Wings ‘Rookie of the Year’ by the Detroit Sports Broadcasters Association (DSBA).

Full story in the Redwings Fan Forum.

Gary Sheffield Back with Tigers

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-06-24

3:10 pm: The Tigers today announced the club has recalled the injury rehab assignment of outfielder Gary Sheffield from Single A Lakeland and reinstated him from the disabled list. Additionally, the Tigers today optioned the contract of first baseman Jeff Larish to Triple A Toledo.

TIGERS HONOR 1968 WORLD CHAMPIONS

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-06-19

Fans will have an opportunity to meet their favorite 1968 Tigers, as members of the team will be signing autographs on the main concourse behind sections 125, 140 and 151 as well as the 300 level concourse behind section 324 from 5:00-6:00 p.m. Players and coaches scheduled to attend include...

Full story and players attending available on our Tigers Fan Forum page in the main menu.

TIGER WOODS CLINIC CANCELLED

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-06-18

GRAND BLANC, Mich. -- The Buick Open Tiger Woods golf clinic scheduled for Tuesday, June 24 at Comerica Park in Detroit has been cancelled due to Tiger's knee injury.

The complete price of the ticket will be refunded and the Buick Open tickets issued as part of the clinic package remain valid for admission to Warwick Hills Golf and Country Club. The tournament is scheduled for June 23-29.

“We are disappointed that the clinic had to be cancelled, but we wish Tiger the best during his rehabilitation process,” said Larry Peck, Buick Golf Promotions Manager. “We encourage everyone who purchased the clinic package to come out and enjoy a great tournament at Warwick Hills next week.”

Tickets for the Buick Open are available at the "Tickets" link above.

2008 NHL Draft

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-06-17

The down side of winning the Stanley Cup is picking last in the NHL Draft.

The Detroit Redwings pick last in all seven rounds except Round Two where they traded that pick to Los Angels for D Brad Stuart at this years trade deadline. Detroit also forfeited their 4th round pick in the 2009 draft. Let's hope Stuart continues to pay dividends.

But then again Detroit digs deep when it comes to the draft i.e. Henrik Zetterberg 210th!

For the complete first round order check out our Redwings Forum.

Buick Open Tickets

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-06-16

Buick Open Tickets. We got em!
Click on the ticket link above.
Warwick Hills Country Club
Grand Blanc, MI

DALE EARNHARDT JR. WINS LIFELOCK 400 AT MIS

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-06-15

BROOKLYN, Mich. (June 15, 2008) – Dale Earnhardt Jr. ended a 76-race winless streak on Sunday at Michigan International Speedway after he used fuel strategy to take his first point-paying win with Hendrick Motorsports in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series LifeLock 400.

It was that kind of a bizarre, stirring, almost unbelievable finish … one that even prompted Earnhardt to say immediately afterward, “They can write what they want, but we won one. This is real special.”

Check out the fan forum page on the main menu for the complete story.

WINGS SIGN BABCOCK TO 3-YEAR EXTENSION

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-06-11

Red Wings General Manager Ken Holland today (June 11) announced the team has signed head coach Mike Babcock to a 3-year contract extension.
“Mike has been a huge part in the Red Wings’ success during his time in Detroit,” said Holland. “We are fortunate to have secured a coach with his work ethic and leadership for another three seasons.” ...

To read the full press release visit our Redwings forum in the main menu bar.

Tickets

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-06-10

PRIME TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR...
Citizens Bank 400 At MIS
Buick Open
PGA Championship At Oakland Hills
Detroit Tigers
Sold Out Concerts
"We're a sports magazine...Of course we've got tickets"

Game Six

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-06-04

Let's go Wings take it and bring it on home!
Wings 3 Pens 0

Stanley Cup Game Five Tickets

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-06-02

Stanley Cup Finals Game Five Tickets!
A very limited number of tickets are still available on our Ticket page, click on the link above and go to the Redwings logo to see our stock.
Will Call and E-Tickets
This could be the last game of the season!
GO WINGS!!!

Red Bull Test Run Photos

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-05-29

Detroit: Thursday, 1:20 PM
Brand new photos of the Red Bull Air Race World Series test runs from the Detroit/Windsor Riverfront are up on our photo gallery right now!
Additional pictures available as test run progresses throughout the day
Photos by MIP.

Welcome henrikzetterberg.com

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-05-29

Redwings fans! MIP has partnered with henrikzetterberg.com to bring you some great new events and help promote Hank's site and new clothing line. Be sure to check out Hank's ad in the current edition of MIP to your left. Visit his site for all the latest from the Wings Star Forward!

New MIS Scoreboard

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-05-28

Race Fans!
For a sneak peek at the new Michigan International Speedway scoreboard jump into the MIP Fan Forums on the main menu.

Red Bull - Wings - Pistons- Tigers

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-05-27

Sports fans be sure to check out the MIP Fan Forums for all the latest interviews and up to date coverage on all your favorite Detroit teams. go to the main menu on the left and click on forums.

Be sure to check out the events page in the Forums for all your up to date Red Bull Air Race events including the first ever legal BASE jump from the Ren Cen and four surrounding buildings!

Take a look around our photo gallery for great behind the scenes photos from the Stanley Cup Finals. We've got Kid Rock, Don Cherry, Sidney Crosby and whole lot more!

STANLEY CUP TICKETS

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-05-20

STANLEY CUP FINALS HERE IN DETROIT AND IN PITTSBURGH.
THESE TICKETS WILL NOT LAST LONG AND GET MORE EXPENSIVE AS THEY BECOME MORE SCARCE SO GRAB TODAY WHILE YOU CAN!
"WE'RE A SPORTS MAGAZINE OF COURSE WE'VE GOT TICKETS!!
GO WINGS!!!! BRING IT ON HOME!!!!

WINGS PISTONS PLAYOFF TICKETS

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-05-05

You want em? We've got em!
NHL Western Conference Finals...Detroit vs. Dallas.
NBA Eastern Conference Semi Finals...Detroit vs. Orlando
Click on the ticket icon above to check our stock.

NEW FAN FORUMS

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-05-02

Do you want to chime in on the Wings or Pistons playoff run.
Do the Lions got you down and you want to yell at somebody?
Does the Tiger's pitching got you pitching a fit?

Well now you have a place where you and your buddies can go where all your Detroit Sports

At the far right in the main menu is the FORUMS button.
CLICK ON - SIGN UP AND CHIME IN!

All the MIP writers are in there giving you up to date and extended coverage.

It's free and a great place to see what everyone is saying about the Detroit sports scene.

MIP is the only place where you can go for all your Detroit Sports needs.

One more way we're working for you!

ON THIS DATE IN NHL PLAYOFF HISTORY

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-04-28

April 28, 1996 - A sold-out crowd at the Winnipeg Arena said good-bye to the Winnipeg Jets following a 4-1 loss to the Detroit Red Wings in Game Six of their Western Conference Quarter-final series. It marked the final game for the Jets before moving to Phoenix and becoming the Coyotes.

Draft Observations, Day One:

Posted By: Michael Niziolek
Date: 2008-04-27

Lions:

- Getting an extra three and a five by trading down two spots was a smart move by the Lions, the players they thought might slip to them at 15 were long gone and squeezing extra value out of picks is what you need to do when you are rebuilding

- I have no problem with the Lions drafting a lineman at 17, but I thought the player they picked, Gosder Cherilus from Boston College, was a little curious. First, he played Guard at B.C. and the Lions will want him at right tackle. Second, he wasn’t the highest lineman on the board. The Lions could of drafted a higher rated tackle and slotted him into his natural position, instead of overdrafting (Mel Kiper had Cherilus at 32 on his board) they thought had good character.

- The Lions stayed away from taking a running back in the first two rounds, which surprised me a little bit, especially when Rashard Mendenhall slipped into the twenties. I thought the Lions might use that extra three they got earlier in the day and a two to move up and grab him. They’ll probably draft a running back on day two, but I don’t think it will be someone that will be able to step in and compete against Tatum Bell. Mendenhall didn’t make much sense at 15 because they needed to improve the offensive line so badly.

- No Roy Williams trade, not surprising, but if they don’t even talk about an extension this year and the Lions improve – will they have the guts to franchise him? And what will his reaction be?

Other Observations:

- The Lions were pretty conservative on day one, but so was everybody else in the NFC North. The Vikings traded three out of their top four picks for Jared Allen earlier in the week, and the Bears/Packers played it safe (like they normally do).

- Henne to the Dolphins was interesting for University of Michigan fans, since there is chance at some point during the year they will see Henne and Jake Long together again.

- With all the disgruntled receivers across the league you wonder if that played into General Managers thinking since no receivers went in the first round….

Detroit Red Wings-Pistons Playoff Tickets

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-04-24

Detroit Red Wings and Pistons Playoff Tickets..We've got em

Click on the ticket icon above.

WINGS ARE DONE!

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-04-19

Oh my...stick a fork in the Wings cause they suck!!!!
Detroit sucks! Wings suck! Michigan sucks!

Reading national coverage really makes me throw up in my mouth a bit!

Everyone who doesn't know hockey is looking for the Wings to falter and puke out at the first opportunity!

Fortunately they are not the Toronto Maple Leaves!

Imagine being a fan of that team! Yikes! !

I'm not even old enough to remember the last time they were crowned the best team in the NHL and I'm 40!
I have to talk to my dad to hear about those good ol days.

Anyway..mark my words the Wings will triumph!

No other team has the depth, fortitude or experience to overcome two months of the playoff grind.
That's what determiners a true Champion!

Mark my words!

Pistons Honor All-Time Team

Posted By: Steve St. Pierre
Date: 2008-04-09

In honor of their 50th anniversary in the city of Detroit, the Pistons celebrated by introducing their All-Time Team last night before their game at The Palace against the New York Knicks.

Among those featured on the "roster" includes Dennis Rodman. Fans were told that "The Worm" would be in attendance for the event, but it was reported that he missed his flight and could not make it. During his speech to the crowd, Isiah Thomas, Knicks Head Coach and former Pistons legend, said that Rodman should have been there to join in the fun.

The event came a day after the NBA announced the members of the Hall of Fame's class of 2008. Of the seven total members, three of them have ties to Detroit: Bill Davidson, Pistons Franchise Owner; Adrian Dantley, former Pistons player and member of the All-Time Team; and Dick Vitale, Former Pistons Head Coach and current ESPN commentator.

Current Pistons players Chauncey Billups and Rasheed Wallace addressed the media following the Pistons' loss to the Knicks, saying that they were honored to be a part of the festivities and included on the official list of Pistons legends.

RED WINGS CLAIM SIXTH PRESIDENTS’ TROPHY IN 13 YEARS

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-04-03

No Other Club Has Won More Than Twice In Trophy’s 22-Year History …

Detroit…With a 3-2 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets tonight, the Detroit Red Wings captured the 2008 Presidents’ Trophy as the National Hockey League’s regular season champion with a league-best 53-21-7 record (113 points). The 2008 title marks the Red Wings’ sixth Presidents’ Trophy in the 22-year history of the award.

The Presidents’ Trophy was introduced at the start of the 1985-86 NHL season by the league’s Board of Governors as an annual award to the club finishing the regular season with the best overall record.

Detroit has captured the Presidents’ Trophy with the NHL’s best regular-season record six times in the last 13 years. The last time an NHL team finished first in the league six times in a shorter span was when the Montreal Canadiens’ dynasty finished in first place six times in just 11 seasons from 1967-68 through 1977-78. During that stretch, the NHL was made up of between 12 and 18 teams. Detroit’s streak has been accomplished with the league consisting of 26 to 30 teams.

Pistons Victory History In The Making

Posted By: Steve St. Pierre
Date: 2008-04-02

The Pistons beat the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night playing on the road without their three best players. It was a meaningless game in terms of standings, yet it may have been a glimpse into the team's promising future.

Playing without Chauncey Billups, Rip Hamilton and Rasheed Wallace, Detroit started off slow and had a 20-point deficit in the first half before cutting the lead to 5 by halftime. The Pistons started center Theo Ratliff in place of Wallace and went with a guard combination of Jarvis Hayes and rookie Rodney Stuckey to fill in for Billups and Hamilton.

The big story of the game, however, came at the end when Detroit featured a lineup of rookies Stuckey and Arron Afflalo in the backcourt with Tayshaun Prince, Jason Maxiell and Amir Johnson up front. It was this group that finished the game in which the Pistons came away with the win by a score of 94-90.

Before Prince returned to the game at the end, his spot was filled admirably by reserve Walter Herrmann. With the rest of the aforementioned closers, Herrmann was instrumental in the team's comeback, providing energy and production at both ends of the floor. Also making positive contributions off the bench were guard Juan Dixon and rookie center Cheikh Samb, who recently rejoined the team after a second stint in the NBDL.

Stuckey carried the Pistons down the stretch, finishing with a career-high 27 points and sealing the victory with clutch free-throws in the closing minute. Afflalo, who has made recent starts for Hamilton, was brought off the bench in order to match-up with the Wolves' high-scoring sixth man Rashad McCants. Together, the two proved that, for an entire game, they could fill in for their All-Star teammates.

The Pistons decided to sit Billups, Hamilton and Wallace now so that they could have five days of game rest and focus more on practice time. It is likely that Billups and Wallace will sit at least one more game between now and the end of the regular season. Though the team was without their marquee players, the Pistons and their fans have to be extremely impressed with the way their young guns competed and demonstrated a developing bond within the group.

OPENING DAY TICKETS!!!

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-03-27

"WE'RE A SPORTS MAGAZINE...OF COURSE WE'VE GOT TICKETS!"

STARTING AT $60, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST!

EMAIL DELIVERY AND WILL CALL PICK UP...NOT A PROBLEM.
DON'T MISS OUT ON WHAT IS SURE TO BE A GREAT TIME DOWN AT THE BALLPARK.

TEMPS IN THE 50'S

THIS YEAR MARKS THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE '68 WORLD SERIES CHAMPION DETROIT TIGERS.

CLICK ON THE LINK ABOVE EASY, FAST, SAFE!

TIGERS PLACE GRANDERSON ON 15-DAY DISABLED LIST

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-03-23

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today (March 23) placed outfielder Curtis Granderson on the 15-day disabled list with a non-displaced fracture of the third metacarpal in his right hand.

Granderson suffered the injury after being hit by a pitch in the fourth inning of yesterday’s game against the Phillies in Clearwater.

In 15 games this spring, Granderson hit .306 (15x49) with three doubles, three triples, four home runs and eight RBI.

Pistons Preparing For Playoff Push

Posted By: Steve St. Pierre
Date: 2008-03-18

The Pistons are coming off of two impressive wins against the San Antonio Spurs and New Orleans Hornets. Still, they know they have more work to do preparing for the postseason.

Detroit has some big games coming up this month, including tonight's game at The Palace against the Denver Nuggets and tomorrow in Cleveland against the Cavaliers. The team is reportedly set to activate backup guard Lindsey Hunter for the final 15 games of the regular season, beginning tomorrow night against the Cavs.

The team recently has left forward Walter Herrmann inactive, and it's likely Hunter could take the roster spot of rookie guard Arron Afflalo, who has seen his minutes dip in favor of recently-acquired veteran guard Juan Dixon. Though the Pistons were happy to play their rookies on a regular basis this season, they now want to begin setting the rotation for the playoffs.

Theo Ratliff, the veteran center who signed with the Pistons last month as a free agent after beginning his career in Detroit in 1995, has been fitting in nicely. He started his first couple games in place of injured starting center Rasheed Wallace and has since played an integral role off the bench, taking the spot of Herrmann.

Last week, Ratliff spoke with MIP. He says he's extremely happy to be back in the Motor City and finally competing for an NBA Championship. Ratliff says he stayed in touch with Joe Dumars, Pistons President since the two were teammates during Ratliff's first stint with the team. The veteran shot-blocker has always thought of the possibility of retiring as a Piston, and the team has already said he is welcome to return next season if he elects not to retire.

Dixon was apparently late to practice yesterday after being involved in a minor car accident. Flip Saunders, Pistons Head Coach, says Dixon is fine and had no problems in practice, staying late to focus more on shooting.

STANLEY CUP PLAYOFF TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY!

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-03-17

The Detroit Red Wings are in the Stanley Cup Playoffs for a record 17th consecutive season and you can join them for all the exciting action as single-game tickets for the first two rounds of the 2008 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Joe Louis Arena as they go on sale this Friday, March 21st at 10:00 am.

Individual playoff tickets have been reduced between 17% and 37% over 2007 playoff prices for the first round alone, depending upon seat location.

If you miss your chance at tickets don't worry Michigan In Play! has great seats available at the ticket link above.

Don't forget great seats for Tigers Opening Day are also waiting for you here as well!

"We're a sports magazine of course we've got tickets!"

Pistons Ink Ratliff

Posted By: Steve St. Pierre
Date: 2008-03-05

As we reported, the Pistons waived Flip Murray in order to sign a replacement center for Primoz Brezec, who was traded to Toronto for Juan Dixon. The team finally found their backup center on Tuesday, officially signing former Detroit draft pick Theo Ratliff.

"The Rattler," as he's known around the league, should give the Pistons an extra veteran defender in the paint who can provide energy and shot-blocking. He'll likely be used sparingly behind starters Rasheed Wallace and Antonio McDyess along with reserves Jason Maxiell, Amir Johnson and Walter Herrmann. The rumor is that he could be activated as early as tonight for Detroit's big match-up with the infamous Boston Celtics, who remain two games ahead of the Pistons in the Eastern Conference.

MIP recently spoke with Dixon following his debut in a Pistons uniform. Dixon tells MIP that he's extremely happy to be a part of a true championship contender and hopes to blend in nicely with the other reserve guards on the team's roster. He knows he'll be used behind rookies Rodney Stuckey and Arron Afflalo but plans on staying ready in case he is called on more towards the end of the regular season heading into the playoffs.

RED WINGS ACQUIRE BRAD STUART FROM LA

Posted By: Jack Rosenberg
Date: 2008-02-26

Detroit Red Wings General Manager Ken Holland today announced that the club has acquired defenseman Brad Stuart from the Los Angeles Kings in exchange for the Wings’ 2nd Round Pick in 2008 and 4th Round Pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.

“Brad adds depth and a level of abrasiveness to our blue line heading into the playoffs,” said Holland. “He’s a veteran player with playoff experience that will fit in well to our lineup.”

Stuart, 28, is currently in his eighth NHL season

Stuart comes in at 6'2, 210 pounds.

Pistons Waive Murray, Looking at Centers

Posted By: Steve St. Pierre
Date: 2008-02-22

As expected, the Pistons have waived Flip Murray. The team tried desperately to trade him this week but could not find any takers.

After trading Primoz Brezec to Toronto for Juan Dixon, the Pistons hope to sign a veteran center to backup Rasheed Wallace and give the team insurance against the bigger teams in the East like Cleveland, who now boasts a frontline of LeBron James, Ben Wallace and Zydrunas Ilgauskas.

The team is reportedly contemplating re-signing free agent Dale Davis, who has spent the past two seasons with the Pistons but has sat out this season deciding between retirement or returning for a 17th year in the NBA. Detroit could also choose to wait on a player like the New Jersey Nets' Jamaal Magloire, who could also be bought out of his contract and made available to a playoff contender.

Pistons Acquire Juan Dixon

Posted By: Steve St. Pierre
Date: 2008-02-21

The Pistons pulled off a trade before the deadline today, acquiring reserve guard Juan Dixon from the Toronto Raptors in exchange for the recently-acquired center Primoz Brezec.

The deal is considered a minor one as the Pistons already have a number of guards on their bench backing up starters Chauncey Billups and Rip Hamilton. The team was rumored to be shopping reserve Flip Murray for about the entire season but found no takers. There's still a chance the team could waive Murray and sign a backup center.

Brezec joined the Pistons two months ago after coming to Detroit with Walter Herrmann in exchange for Nazr Mohammed. He didn't play much but was vocal on the bench and showed a great deal of hustle when given court time. Dixon gives the Pistons a veteran shooter who can play either guard position and could take time away from the rookie duo of Rodney Stuckey and Arron Afflalo.

Both players are in the final year of their contracts, so neither team benefits financially from the trade.

Pistons Update

Posted By: Steve St. Pierre
Date: 2008-02-19

The Pistons are back from All-Star Weekend and feeling refreshed and ready for tonight's big game at The Palace against the Orlando Magic. Chauncey Billups and Rip Hamilton were both voted in as Eastern Conference All-Star reserves, while Rasheed Wallace was handpicked by David Stern, NBA Commissioner, to replace the injured Kevin Garnett. All three Pistons played well off the East bench and helped their team defeat the West 134-128.

Don't expect any major moves involving Detroit's roster for Friday's NBA trade deadline. The team is shopping reserve Flip Murray in exchange for draft picks but haven't found any suitors. If they cannot complete a deal, the team will either buy the veteran guard out of his contract or keep him on the roster until the contract expires at the end of the season. Murray would be vital insurance in case an injury occurs to the backcourt.

We should see Lindsey Hunter back on the active roster in about a month or so. Hunter has been inactive while the Pistons allow more playing time for rookies Rodney Stuckey and Arron Afflalo. The team knows they'll need Hunter's pressure defense in the playoffs, so the rookies will probably take a backseat once Hunter returns to the rotation.

LIONS OFF-SEASON RECOMMENDATIONS: OL and TE

Posted By: Michael Niziolek
Date: 2008-02-18

Free Agency starts in one week, and I continue my look at how I think the Lions' off-season should go, today we take a look at the team's Offensive Line and Tight Ends.

LIONS OFF-SEASON RECOMMENDATIONS: OL and TE

The Lions started the year with Dan Campbell as their starting Tight End, but an elbow injury he sustained Week 2 against the Vikings forced him out for the season. The previous year Campbell was decent in the pass game with 21 receptions for over 300 yards and four touchdowns, but his numbers are secondary to his blocking ability. When he is healthy he is one of the better blocking tight ends in the NFC.

He signed a five-year deal with Detroit in 2006, so it's highly unlikely the team will make any changes. Focusing on the run will give Campbell added value as a blocker, and the Lions will hope that he continues to improve in the passing game like he did before his elbow injury.

The offensive line is a completely different story.

Jon Kitna was under fire all year and was sacked 51 times, but that was the least of it. Offsides calls, holding penalities, injuries, age... it was like playing musical chairs only the chairs only had three legs. It will be impossible to overhaul properly in one season, but with a good offensive line free agent and draft class it's definitely a spot that should get some attention.

Left-tackle Jeff Backus is the Lions' best lineman by far. He's been dependable by starting all 112 games since the Lions drafted him out of Michigan in 2001, and his six-year $40 million extension signed in 2006 (with over $16 million in guarnteed bonuses) means he is a sure starter next year. Center Dominic Rajola has also been quite reliable, and with a reasonable cap number (five-year deal worth $17.5 million, $4.6 signing bonus) he is a good piece to build around along with Backus.

I would argue that the Lions should explore upgrading the rest of the line, and while it's unrealistic to expect Detroit to bring in proven blockers at three separate spots, they should at least bring in players to compete.

What I think they should do is take a look at a couple of young free agent guards that have shown an ability to truly excel in the passing game (while not losing anything in the run game) - Ryan Lilja and Jake Scott. Both are from the Indianapolis Colts, are young (26) and have Super Bowl rings. The Colts have done a great job signing lineman they build, but both guards should get lots of offers and it would be tough to retain both. If the Lions don't bring back Damien Woody, bringing in moderate-to-high price lineman to replace him wouldn't add that much salary to the cap next season. Plug either one on the left side with Jeff Backus and you shored up at least half the line.

Then I would use the draft, like they did last year with Manuel Ramirez, and get an offensive lineman in the mid-rounds, but this time draft a tackle. Have that pick, Jonathan Scott and George Foster compete for the right tackle spot.

In all likely hood what I think the Lions will do is bring Stephen Peterman and Edwin Mulitalo back as starting guards, and go with a cheap veteran free agent option at RT. I think they will draf