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Monica McGee

About Monica McGee

Monica “Magnificent” McGee -Host, Strategic Marketing Analyst, and Columnist
Monica “Magnificent” McGee is a Strategic Marketing Analyst and a Television Personality for the All Things Marketing Show in Dayton, OH. Monica is looking to spice up the Industry with her innovative, outside of the box, cutting edge ideas and approaches to the field. Under the mentorship of many of Monica’s personal heroes and helpers, she has been able to build up her Social Media skills and receive guidance on being an independent female business owner in both the Marketing and Media field. Monica is currently shooting her second season of the All Things Marketing Show, which she is the Host and Show Creator, writes a column for DaytonMostMetro called the 3M Zone, and has launched her own Marketing Consulting Company called The Marketing D.I.N.E.R. under her parent company ACINOM CORP.

Former University of Dayton Flyer, Mickey Perry – “Making it Happen On and Off the Court”

September 26, 2011 By Monica McGee Leave a Comment

What embodies a well-rounded basketball player? Is it their dashing moves on the basketball court? Their ability to read the defense and create plays on the offense? Or could it be what they do off the court and in the classroom that makes all the difference in the intense game of life?

Mickey Perry, The former University of Dayton [UD, Flyers] basketball player, is a great example of what hard work on and off the court can bring if one applies themselves.

Perry was recently picked up by the Quebec Kebs, a professional Canadian team in the National Basketball League. The news comes just one year after Perry successfully completed his undergraduate degree in Marketing from the University of Dayton.

However impressive, Perry’s scholastic and basketball superstardom did not come easy by any stretch of the imagination.

Perry came from the hard streets of Maywood, IL, just outside of Chicago, where he grew up with his two younger siblings, mother and stepfather; however, he chose not to become a statistic and fall victim to the street life.

Perry’s road to the pros began at Proviso East, a high school that has produced NBA greats such as Boston Celtics Head Coach, Doc Rivers [played for Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Clippers, New York Knicks, and San Antonio Spurs] and Michael Finley of the Dallas Mavericks [also played for Phoenix Suns, San Antonio Spurs, and Boston Celtics].

During Perry’s sophomore year at Proviso East he played alongside Shannon Brown, two-time NBA champion of the Los Angeles Lakers.

As one could envision, Perry had large basketball shoes to fill hailing from such an accomplished high school; however, Mickey never detoured from his dreams of obtaining a higher education and an opportunity to pursue a professional basketball career.

Perry was afforded an opportunity to attend college right out of high school, which was a dream come true for him and his mother. Perry said, “My mother always said if you pray and work hard enough, there is nothing you can’t achieve.”

Perry attended the University of Wisconsin [Badgers] in 2005-2007, which is a Big Ten conference school. During Mickey’s 2007 basketball season as a Badger, Wisconsin was ranked #2 in the nation.

Although Wisconsin was having an outstanding 2007 season, Perry saw little action on the hardwood. Perry played only half a season of basketball his sophomore year and red shirted during his freshman year.

Mickey left the Badgers to better his basketball opportunities and transferred to the University of Dayton, where he played the point and shooting guard position.

In 2010, during Perry’s senior year at the University of Dayton, the Flyers were able to clinch the National Invitation Tournament [NIT] championship game over the North Carolina Tar Heels, finishing out their season with a 25-12 record.

Even though that was Dayton’s first NIT title in more than 40 years, Perry said his biggest victory in 2010 came a few weeks later when he received his degree from his Alma Mater. Monica Magnificent McGee“I’m a student-athlete, not an athletic student. There is a difference,” he said.

Right after college, Perry played professional minor league basketball for the Dayton Air Strikers in the Premiere Basketball League [PBL] during the 2010 season. In Mickey’s brief time with the Strikers, he was able to become the 7th overall scorer in the league and made the All PBL 2nd Team.

Mickey mentioned that even if he had not had opportunity to advance in the professional realm of basketball that he would use his education to build a solid career in and around sports.

Perry said, “You have to have an A, B and sometimes even a C plan if things don’t exactly work out with the pro’s. If the pro’s don’t work out for me, I know I will definitely do something in the basketball arena like coach or teach at some level between high school and college. All I know is I am working hard for each and every opportunity I’ve received and if for some reason I don’t make it, I know I gave it my best shot. I am fortunate I have my education to fall back on.”

Perry’s first season with the Kebs starts in early October and in the meanwhile he is giving back through mentoring young athletes and substitute teaching in his old neighborhood in Maywood, IL.

Perry concluded by stating, “Skills and training camps will prepare you for the game of basketball, but being armed with your education will prepare you for the game of life. Take advantage of your educational opportunities to better your life and your chances of being successful on and off the court. “

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Filed Under: The Featured Articles Tagged With: 3M Zone, Dayton Air Strikers, Doc Rivers, Maywood IL, Michael Finley, Mickey Perry, Monica Magnificent McGee, monica mcgee, NIT, North Carolina Panthers, PBL, point guard, Proviso East, Quebec Kebs, Road to the Pro's, Shannon Brown, shooting guard, University of Dayton, University of Wisconsin

Micheal “SUGAR” Ray Richardson- The Bitter and The Sweet

August 22, 2011 By Monica McGee Leave a Comment

Micheal Ray Richardson was known for many things. He was known for his quick-witted tongue, his killer defense, his controversial ban from the NBA and his incessant drug use.

No matter what you remember of Richardson’s stead in the NBA, you can’t deny he was and still is a champion, the king of comeback and arguably one of the best to ever play at his position.

Micheal was given the nickname “Sugar” for his sweet moves on the court. He was a four time NBA All Star — twice with the New York Knicks and two times with the New Jersey Nets — and made All Defensive First Team twice. His ability to burn a hole in the net with his wicked jump shot was second to none.

Micheal played in the NBA from 1978-1988 along with other legendary players such as Magic Johnson, Julius Erving, Larry Byrd, Michael Jordan and Artis Gilmore.

When critics squawked at what was considered Richardson’s unruly behavior, he simply responded with putting up undeniable stats averaging 16 points, seven assists, and five rebounds per game.  To the naked eye it may have seemed as if he was winning the battle with his impeccable talent, but he was no match for the war on drugs that the late 1970s and early 1980s brought to the community and the professional game of sports.

In spite of Richardson’s plausible career in the pros, Richards found himself caught up in the fast life and quickly spinning out of control. He began to habitually do drugs and as a result, his addiction caused him to be banned from the NBA permanently after failing three consecutive drug screenings.

For most, being banned from professional basketball, having a controversial personal brand, and a lingering drug addiction, would have destroyed more than just a career in the pros, but possibly even life itself; however, Richardson showed resiliency throughout his personal trials and battles with drugs and got his life back on track.

Richardson would eventually end up quitting drugs in 1988, had a successful 13 year career overseas after his 10 year stint in the NBA, clinching 3 championships while in Italy and another in South France, obtained a job working for the NBA in London, and would become the Community Ambassador for the Denver Nuggets in 2001 teaching children about the negative effects of drugs.

Richardson coaches a minor league basketball team called the Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry in Lawton, Oklahoma, which he led to three championships in the Premiere Basketball League and was a strong contender to clinch a fourth during the 2011 basketball post season play.

He contributes his success as a coach to his passion for the game and being able to communicate with his players.

Richardson stated, “It’s not always about the X’s and O’s, but having the players believe in me as a coach and having effective communication with my players on and off the court.”

Richardson attributes his ability to redirect the once grim forecast on his life to Jesus Christ, personal mentors, his strong belief in himself and his don’t quit mentality.

Richardson stated, “Lots of people have problems and they don’t see a way out so they quit. The difference with me was I did not give up. When you have an addiction you have to change the people, places and things that surround you to achieve the change you want to have in your life. I did just that. I believe leaving the league [NBA] and playing basketball overseas not only saved my career, but my life.”

Micheal continued by stating, “A major eye opener for me at the time was the passing of the number one draft pick, Len Bias of Landover, MD who passed away from a drug overdose. That made me further realize that I had a second chance at life and I needed to make a change.”

Richardson is a father of two, which one of his children is studying at Virginia Tech and will be a doctor in the upcoming year. Richardson also holds basketball camps nationwide teaching children basketball and life skills while empowering them to have greater self-esteem.

Richardson closed the interview by stating, “I share my story because some people want to get out [war on drugs] but cant. I’m  not talking about stuff I read in a book, but actual stuff that has happened to me. When you are doing it [drugs] you can’t tell its affecting you, but it is. I made an example of myself and I got caught. In life you have to be responsible for your own actions.”

Micheal “Sugar” Ray Richardson is not only the king of controversy, comeback, and a man of character, but a living testament that in life, you have to sometimes take the bitter with the sweet.



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Filed Under: Community Tagged With: 3M Zone, Calvary, Denver Nuggets, Lawton Oklahoma, Michael Ray Richardson, Micheal Ray Richardson, Monica Magnificent McGee, NBA, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks, Road to the Pro's, SUGAR Ray Richardson

“Road to the Pro’s- From the Locker Room to the Main Stage.”

August 10, 2011 By Monica McGee 4 Comments

The Journey: The journey to become a professional athlete is not necessarily a straight and narrow one. Few are called and even fewer are chosen. The road less traveled is often the key to success in this game. Hard work, strong ethics, character, and charisma on the court combine for an explosive combination to rise above the competition.

The Triumphs: Test and trials in life are designed to make us stronger. We must be iron like, unable to be penetrated, standing firm and able to hold up against intense heat and pressure. Even setbacks can be the predecessor of major comebacks. One must remain as tough as steel and remember what brings us closest to our breaking point is what will be the motivation to see us through the eye of a troubling storm.

Passion: Passion is what pushes us through the hard times, reminds you of the great times, keeps you focused on making the most of your time and allows you to remain optimistic that the best times are yet to come. Passion oozes from the very guts of a champion; their potential is actualized through the blood sweat and tears it took to make it to the “Main Stage.”

For a champion, making it to the “Main Stage” is never enough. A true victor pushes past expectancy to clinch a championship title, hence making it official that all their hopes, dreams, goals, and affirmations have materialized in spite of the mayhem it took to arrive at that very moment.

The Article series, “Road to the Pro’s- From the Locker Room to the Main Stage,” is a collection of stories from pro athletes, coaches, scouts, pro hopefuls and others surrounded by the game of professional basketball, who will share stories that unveil the good, bad, ugly and the indifferent sides of what it takes to succeed on the professional level. Some of the individuals featured in the Road to the Pro’s series are Micheal Ray Richardson, former NBA New York Knick and New Jersey Net, Mickey Perry, former University of Dayton Flyer and pro hopeful, Sid Sharma, Bio Mechanical Engineer and Personal Trainer to Advanced Athletes as well as more surprise guest to come.

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Filed Under: Spectator Sports Tagged With: 3M Zone, Dayton Most Metro, DaytonMostMetro.com, Micheal Ray Richardson, Mickey Perry, Monica Magnificent McGee, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks, Road to the Pro's, Sid Sharma, University of Dayton

Silverbacks Saturday at Hara Arena

May 9, 2011 By Monica McGee Leave a Comment

The Dayton Silverbacks were off to a banging start with wide receiver Melvin Bryant scoring within the opening minutes of the game for an early 7-0 lead; however, the Indianapolis Enforcers came charging back in an attempt to even the score as both teams put up points early in the first quarter.

In spite of the Enforcers attempts to rally back, it was clear the first half belonged to the Silverbacks. Even after receiving two consecutive penalties that would cost the Silverbacks 30 yards, they were able to tack on six more points off a fumble recovery as Defensive Back Neimiah Simons galloped through the goal line.

The Silverbacks led at the half 39-6

Silverbacks started the second half strong, scoring an early safety by Defensive Lineman, Shawn Stewart. Wide Receiver Marque Jones scored the first touchdown of the half to extend the Silverbacks slaughter 47-6.

Running Back, Ronald Russell, rushed for 39 yards and scored two touchdowns, which was the total number of yards the Silverbacks held the Enforcers to for the evening.

The Enforcers proved to be no match for the Dayton Silverbacks, as they finished with a final score of 75-6.

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Filed Under: Spectator Sports Tagged With: arena football, Dayton Silverbabes Cheerleaders, Dayton Silverbacks, Indianapolis Enforcers, Marque Jones, Melvin Bryant, Monica Magnificent McGee, monica mcgee, Neimiah Simons, Ronald Russell, Shawn Stewart

The “Golden Child” Gets the Golden Ticket: Idol Dreams Becoming a Reality

April 26, 2011 By Monica McGee Leave a Comment

Could you imagine in your wildest dreams that every singing lesson you took, choir you sang in, musical you performed in, and talent show you placed in could lead up to one of the biggest moments of your life? For one local young man, his wildest dreams may be becoming a reality.

Michael Anthony Disney's Hollywood American Idol Experience Winner

Hoping to follow in the footsteps of past American Idol greats such as Fantasia Barrino, Carrie Underwood, Ruben Studdard, and Jordin Sparks, is a 15-year- old Dayton prodigy Michael Anthony of Miami Valley High School.  Michael has earned himself the Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ American Idol Experience Golden Ticket that could make the ambitious teen’s vocalist dreams come true.

Michael, who is also involved in theatre and choir at his high school, began expressing his talent as an infant, when he would hum Barney tunes in front of the television. At the tender age of 8 months, Michael’s mother, Miracle Monette Troutman, knew her son had something special from the very beginning, hence the name “Golden Child.”

Miracle said, “Not even in my wildest dreams, would I have been able to imagine that my son could be an audition away, from possibly becoming the next American Idol. No matter what happens, I am so proud of him. Michael receiving the Golden Ticket was a huge accomplishment in itself.”

Michael was able to win over the judges with his R&B, Pop and Acoustic musical sound, at the American Idol Experience audition in Florida; which landed him a Golden Ticket to audition for any upcoming season of the American Idol. Michael’s mature polished sound and remarkable vocal range is what will make him a contender for a top spot on Idol.

A major incentive for Michael winning the American Idol Golden Ticket is he gets front of the line access for an audition, which will guarantee him the opportunity to sing his heart out in front of the star studded American Idol judges.

Michael jokingly stated, “I hope my audition does not end up in the blooper section!”

Michael plans on auditioning this summer for his chance at stardom and would like to audition closer to home [i.e. Chicago] for the 2012 season of American Idol.

Michael added, “There was a man from last season [2010] that had the same golden ticket as I have and he made it to the top five. This is very encouraging to me and I can’t wait to give it my all.”

Michael is motivated and believes his chances at making it to Hollywood are great.

In order for the “Golden Child” to receive the American Idol Experience Golden Ticket, he had to beat out the competition at Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ in Orlando, Florida. Michael was then voted by an audience of his peers and onlookers as the winner by interactive key pad for the chance to sing his heart out for all of America.

Michael Canada may still be a kid, but the competition was not based on his age; rather, his talent and ability to wow the judges and prove that he deserved to go on to the next round.  Michael stated, “I competed against people in their forties and was not even old enough to cash in my American Idol Golden Ticket at the time, you have to be at least fifteen to go on the show. Going up against adults and stiff competition was intimidating, but I gave it my best. I am so happy I won.”

Michael’s own personal idols are Sidney Poitier, Michael Jackson, Will Smith and his mentor Quentin Darrington [Broadway Musical Actor].

Canada is not only a singing sensation but also a scholar, obtaining a 3.8 Grade Point Average in his Honors courses at the Miami Valley School and attributes his scholastic success to super supportive mother.

Michael quoted, “Momma don’t play that!” referring to Miracle’s stern, but loving approach when it comes to his scholastic success.

Miracle stated, “The money put towards Michael’s education is well worth it, because he is such a good smart kid.”

, Mitchelle and Christian [Brothers]”]Michael is much like any other 15-year-old who likes to hang out with friends and participate in extracurricular activities at his school. When Michael is not somewhere performing or developing his musical talents, he enjoys being a big brother to his two younger siblings 11 year old Mitchell Canada, who plays quarterback for Trotwood Madison Middle School and five year old Christian Troutman, who loves playing video games.  Michael also enjoys reading, acting and spending quiet time alone when he is able to.

Michael quoted, “I am a pretty easy going guy. I like to just chill by myself at home and read.”

Michael and his mother Miracle both had strong closing statements to share with the public. Miracle stated, “Don’t give up on your kids, be active in their lives. Your children can be your destiny. What I was not able to become, I know my sons would be.”

Michael added, “Don’t underestimate yourself. Stay humble and just go for it [your dreams].”

Filed Under: DMM Columns, The Featured Articles Tagged With: American Idol, and Jordan Sparks, Carrie Underwood, Christian Troutman, Disney's Hollywood Idol Experience, Fantasia Barrino, Golden Child, Golden Ticket, Miami Valley High School, Michael Anthony, Michael Canada, Michael Jackson, Mike Canada, Miracle Monette, Miracle Troutman, Mitchell Canada, Monica Magnificent McGee, monica mcgee, Orlando Florida, Quentin Darrington, Ruben Studdard, Sidney Poitier, Trotwood Madison Middle School, Will Smith

Artists Dance their Way into Dayton for Cityfolks “Rise Up to Dance” Performance at Stivers

March 18, 2011 By Monica McGee 4 Comments

Ever since I was a little girl, I have always loved dance. I used to dance in front of the mirror, the kitchen floor, my front porch or on the school yard in front of my peers. I even used to dance in front of the television with my little “dance crew” while the TV was in the off position and watch my reflection as my crew and I did the Snake and the Running Man dance to the Hip Hop sounds of Big Daddy Kane, LL Cool J, MC Hammer and A Tribe Called Quest.

When I look back I can’t think of what was louder, my bright pink polka dot shirt with coordinating suspenders, or the speakers shaking the walls and shifting pictures as I grooved the night away.

I was just a kid then, but not much has changed for my love of dance and Hip Hop music. I still dance in front of my mirror, the kitchen floor, and my front porch. I even still get down and dance at school yards like I did recently with a new generation of Hip Hoppers for the upcoming City Folk “Rise Up to Dance” performance, featuring Celebrity Choreographers and Originators of Krump style dancing, Hurricane and Big Mijo of Los Angeles, California. I had a blast watching the kids perform on stage to one of the hottest hip hop dance forms of this generation, Krump dancing.

I had a nostalgic moment at one point during the rehearsal, because I was once that eager kid learning how to dance and express myself. I remember the level of confidence that I built from just getting out there and showing my moves to whoever was willing to watch. I could see that same excitement and energy I had while parading around in my living room dancing to my favorite hip hop tune.

What I loved most about the “Rise Up to Dance” kids was that they were committed. I could tell the kids were giving it their all, stepping outside of their comfort zones and were excited about participating in something positive. Dancing is what saved me at one point, and it is nice to see the youth of today doing the same.

Hurricane stated during rehearsal with the kids of the “Rise Up to Dance” project, “We love to share with them what saved us from the streets and getting into other bad things.”

Big Mijo added, “It is not about the money, but about the kids first. We love to see them doing something positive and that is why we are here in Dayton doing this project.”

Besides Hurricane and Big Mijo, Dayton is privileged to have so much artistic talent working together in the city at the same time thanks to the wonderful people over at Cityfolk. Featured artist include Kwame Ross of the Prophecy Music Project, Renee McClendon Lead Local Artist for Fairview site, and a host of others.

Julius Jenkins, who goes by the stage name “Eclipse” is a 10 year B-boy and Pop lock dancer and the lead local artist working with east end community children for the “Rise Up and Dance” performance.

Julius stated during our interview, “I Definitely see growth from the children involved. Our goal is for the kids to gain confidence and tap into their creative side. We want to show people that these kids are not just running around in the streets, even though the neighborhoods may be ran down and they are less fortunate. We want to give them the opportunity to gain confidence and do something positive for themselves. They have just as much talent and potential as anybody else.”

Marie Medina, who goes by the stage name of Pandora, is best known for her role in “Step Up 3D” as a featured dancer with moves that set the crowd on fire. Pandora is working with Dayton’s east end kids for the “Rise Up and Dance” project and is having a blast working with the children.

Pandora stated, “Dancing is what saved me from going down the wrong path. I want to help and inspire kids just like I was inspired by the dancers in my neighborhood.”

Pandora is originally from Santa Ana, California and has been a Pop Lock dancer for over 10 years traveling the world performing.

Sparrowfaith is another Lead Local Artist, who says his Krumping style of dance was inspired from the hit movie “Rize” in 2005. Sparrowfaith stated during our interview, “I watched the movie “Rise” over and over and began to practice. I am out here in Ohio and they [Krumpers] were in California so I did not have any teachers, but I just liked it so much that I latched on to the style. ”

Sparrowfaith encourages the community to come out and support the kids and artist who have put in so much hard work for a great cause.

Kelsa Rieger, Community programs manager for Cityfolk, states “I have been afforded an amazing opportunity to do what I have always dreamed of, which is to combine all my passions into one career. I am able to bring together the arts, dance, culture and my passion for community development together.”

When I asked Kelsa what people should expect from this performance she added, “People can expect to have their minds blown. They will see things they have never seen and learn things they have never known. My hope is that people gain a deeper appreciation for the art forms that they will experience during the show.”

As I covered this story, it took me back to the little dancer in me that every now and then likes to come out and groove a little bit. Oh those were the days. I can still hear the sounds of LL Cool J’s “I Need an Around the Way Girl” playing in the background while I was doing the Cabbage Patch dance.

Fortunately, there is an opportunity for everyone to step outside of their daily routine, become a kid again and experience the same feelings I did by coming to the Cityfolk “Rise to Dance” performance taking place March 19, 2011 at Stivers. Show time is 6pm and celebration reception will follow right after the show. For more information and tickets visit www.cityfolk.org or call 937-910-1005.

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Filed Under: Arts & Entertainment, The Featured Articles Tagged With: Big Mijo, Cityfolk, Dayton Club Scene, Eclipse, Hurricane, Julius Jenkins, Kelsa Rieger, Krump, Kwame Ross, Marie Medina, performance, Pop lock, Renee McClendon, Rise Up to Dance, Sparrowfaith, Stivers

Silverbacks Season Opener at Hara Arena a Smashing Success

March 8, 2011 By Monica McGee 7 Comments

Dayton SilverbacksThe Dayton Silverbacks where off to a smashing start in their season opener at Hara Arena against the Indianapolis Enforcers, Saturday March 5, 2011. This was also the Silverbacks first game at their new Hara Arena field since moving from Hobart Arena in Troy, OH after three seasons. (see opening game photos here and watch game video at the bottom of this post)

The Dayton Silverbacks are the longest running Professional Indoor Football team in the Midwest and have been a member of the Continental Indoor Football League (CIFL) for the past five years.

The fast pace, high impact, arena style football is sure to keep you on your toes and fully engaged with nonstop action from beginning to end.

Dayton Silverbacks Cheerleader - Natasha Yoho

Natasha Yoho

Natasha Yoho, thirteen year veteran cheerleader, is in her first season with the Silverbacks and could not be happier. Natasha stated, “I am very excited to cheer for the Silverbacks. It’s a new team for me and we [Silverbabes] practice seven hours a week to make sure we are bringing lots of energy and smiles to the fans. We love interacting with them and pumping up the crowd for the team.” The Silverbabes sponsored the raffle prizes, halftime games and activities for the Silverbacks for Saturday night’s game.

Jeff Kolaczkowski, President and Owner of Dayton Silverbacks stated, “The move from Troy to Dayton was a positive one, because it moved a lot of the players closer to their families and we expect to draw larger crowds since there will be less of a commute to see them play.”

Jeff added, “Tonight’s crowd turnout was a bit disappointing, but we will be increasing our marketing efforts to change that around. We are still working out some of the kinks with the move, but tonight was a great game, because whenever you win it’s a good game.” The Silverbacks led the Enforcers 50-13 at the half.

Although the Silverbacks maintained a marginal lead throughout the game, they had a quiet second half until late in the fourth quarter with six minutes and fourteen seconds to go in regulation. Wide Receiver, Marcus Fails, scored a touchdown to get the fans standing to their feet and cheering once again.

Dayton Silverbacks Wide Receiver - Daniel Stover

WR Daniel Stover

All five Wide Receivers for the Silverbacks scored at least one touchdown in the game. Kicker Jeff Hubbard opened the second half of the game with a seamless 21 yard field goal, Defensive Back, Chris Respress had two interceptions, and player of the game and Wide Receiver Daniel Stover scored three touchdowns to crush the Enforcers 69-19.

Stover stated, “We have been working hard and it’s real easy to get open with good players. Everything worked out, no one stood out, and there are no weak links in our chain. Our chain is stronger than ever. The common denominator of this team is that we all want to win.”

Silverbacks Wide Receiver, Mike Brown, who sat out in the season opener due to injury added, “This team has made a complete 180 and I can’t wait to get back out there. Our offense put up points bottom line. Our defense held their offense to less than 20 points and that was a complete team effort.”

Brown is hopeful that he will be well enough to play by next home game.

Dayton Silverbacks Coach Shepard

Coach Shepard

Coach Derrick Shepard, who is in his third season with the Silverbacks, is pleased with the win and the energy of the team; however, Shepard believes there is room for improvement from the players. Shepard commented, “Good job to all that put up points, but we all have room for improvement. A whole bunch of little ME’s makes one big team.”

When Shepard was asked what he expected from the Silverbacks this season he stated, “I expect to go all the way. Every coach would love to go all the way. Realistically, I would like them to walk away being a better player. If they become better players, then it was a successful season and I would be happy with that.”

Kevin Bukvik, Marketing and Community Representative for the Silverbacks, speaks to their community outreach efforts off the field by stating, “When I first came on board with the Silverbacks, I did not know if the guy’s egos would be a problem. But when I was first asked by the players when would we be going out to the schools to read to the kids, I realized there was not a whole lot of convincing I had to do. I guess they just get it. They are an awesome group of guys and are so down to earth. I love working with them.”

You can catch the Dayton Silverbacks in action at their next home game at Hara Arena as they square off against the Cincinnati Commandos Saturday April 2nd at 7:30 pm. For more information on how to obtain tickets visit www.silverbacksfootball.com or call 937-425-8050.

Filed Under: Spectator Sports, The Featured Articles Tagged With: arena football, Chris Respress, CIFL, Cincinnati Commandos, Coach Derrick Shepard, Continental Indoor Football League, Daniel Stover, Dayton Silverbacks, Hara Arena, Hobart Arena, Indianapolis Enforcers, Jeff Hubbard, Jeff Kolaczkowski, Kevin Bukvik, Marcus Fails, Mike Brown, Natasha Yoho, Professional Indoor Football, season opener, Silverbabes, sports team, Troy OH

New Minor League Basketball Team Looking to Shoot Down Competition

February 21, 2011 By Monica McGee 2 Comments

There may not be a new sheriff in town, but there is definitely a new professional basketball team in our midst, the Dayton Air Strikers, a Premier Basketball League (PBL) team.  The Air Strikers may be new to the Dayton-area and the PBL, but are looking to fly high in their first season.

The Air Strikers have been in existence for about three months and despite a 2-9 start the team is optimistic it can turn its season around.

Don Allen Sellers, Head Coach and General Manager for the Air Strikers, believes that he has a great group of talented men and makes it clear that he will not make any excuses for their slow start this season.

Don Allen Sellers

Sellers stated, “I want people to know the Premier Basketball League that we [Dayton Air Strikers] are a part of is not a semi-pro basketball league, it’s a professional basketball league. If you compared it to baseball it would be the Double-A of the Minor Leagues. These men are professionals and they get paid to play and I expect them to play as such. In spite of personnel changes and being a new team I won’t make any excuses for our guys. We have the talent. We just need to play like we have it.”

Sellers is a former NBA scout for the Memphis Grizzles and has coached overseas in developmental leagues, including ones in China, Dubai and Lebanon. Don brings tenure and tenacity to the Dayton Air Striker team.

Phillip "Mickey" Perry

University of Dayton graduate and 2010 NIT Championship winner Mickey Perry is among the talent Sellers speaks so passionately about. Perry, a guard for the Air Strikers, averages 11.5 points per game, shooting 41.3 percent from behind the arc and 71.4 percent from behind the free throw line according to the most recent PBL statistics.

Mickey added, “Even though we have lost some tough games, we are getting better every day. We just have to make sure we show up to play every night. It’s been hard with the constant shuffling of players and it makes it kind of hard to come together as a team, but I still won’t make any excuses. We just have to get out there and go hard.”

The PBL was formed in 2008 as a developmental basketball league and gained momentum in its first season, while TV Basketball Analyst Kenny Smith was Commissioner. The PBL is presently comprised of nine teams from Canada and the United States.

Air Striker games take place at Fairmont High School’s James S. Trent Arena in Kettering, Ohio. Be sure to support the Air Strikers as they take on Kentucky’s Bluegrass Stallions on Tuesday, February 22, 2011 at 7pm at Trent Arena.

For ticket information, schedule, team appearances, game stats and more, visit their website www.daytonairstrikers.com or contact them 937-410-4694.

Filed Under: Spectator Sports Tagged With: Basketball, Blue Grass Stallions, Dayton Air Strikers, developmental basketball league, Don Sellers, Fairmont High School, Kenny Smith, Memphis Grizzles, Mickey Perry, Minor League Basketball, PBL, Premier Basketball League, Trent Arena

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