NFL Goodell says league didn’t see video before this week Sports 3B B SECTION | THE COURIER | WEDNESDAY , SEPTEMBER 10 , 2014 | WWW.HOUMATODAY.COM

NFL Saints’ pass rush ‘ate humble pie’ THE SIDELINES TEDDY RENOIS Lyons Yellin ate that humble pie (on Sunday),” he 448 yards passing, a new Atlanta had 23 plays of 10 yards or more WWL-TV.com Sports Reporter said. “But I feel like it’s good it hap- record. while averaging 8.2 yards per snap. METAIRIE — Really the only pened early. That’s the only good I “The guy’s an elite quarterback, Because of Atlanta’s plethora of Colonels thing that had changed from Sunday can take out of that it happened the and elite quarterbacks, you have playmaking wide receivers — Julio afternoon to Monday morning for fi rst game of the season, let’s get this to get to them,” he said. “Any of the Jones, Rodey White, Harry Douglas Junior Galette was the location of the out the way and just never have this Tom Bradys, Drew Breeses once and Devin Hester, all of whom aver- locker he was sitting in front of. feeling again that I have right now.” you start making them feel uncom- aged more than 11.5 yards per re- in need of The always affable and normally Galette has every reason to be fortable in the pocket they become ception Sunday — the Saints hoped upbeat New Orleans Saints line- peeved after the Saints defense human again.” they could disrupt Ryan with a four- backer was still reeling after his nearly set a futility record, allow- The Saints pass rush was largely man rush, allowing the back seven hope team’s stunning 37-34 overtime road ing 568 yards, the second-most in ineffective against Ryan, who re- loss to Atlanta (1-0). franchise history. Equally as both- peatedly escaped pressure only to Galette “Defi nitely humbling; defi nitely ersome, quarterback Matt Ryan’s make the Saints pay. The Falcons | See Saints, 3B | Nicholls State University wasn’t overmatched in its 73-7 loss to Arkansas on Saturday. The Colonels were overwhelmed. HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREP VOLLEYBALL When Arkansas wide receiver Keon Hatcher completed his 82-yard touch- down run for a 7-0 lead, the Late touchdown started a celebra- tion Razorback fans have waited for since the start of a 10-game losing streak. rally lifts I knew the celebration was in full swing midway in the second quarter with the jovial mood in the press box Lady among the Arkansas beat writers. They were relieved to ask questions and write stories on a much-needed Warriors victory. Whether Nicholls’ run de- Wil Touchet fense is improved, it was hard Sports Correspondent to tell as the Razorbacks’ Down two sets and trailing offensive line completely in the third, it appeared the wiped the Colonels’ defense Houma Christian volleyball off the line of scrimmage. team was looking at a certain That dominance led to loss. Arkansas scoring on a single But the Lady Warriors play on fi ve possessions ,and kept fi ghting and rallied to every time the Razorbacks take the third set along with ran a play in fi rst half, it could the fourth and fi fth sets to have potentially ended with a comeback and top Central touchdown. Lafourche, 19-25, 21-25, 25- Arkansas’ 56-0 halftime 16, 25-14, 15-10, in nondistrict lead prompted someone action on Tuesday. associated with the game After gaining the lead in the to ask Nicholls head coach third set, Houma Christian Charlie Stubbs if he wanted ran off 10 straight points as to reduce the time in the the Lady Trojans had trouble second half. breaking the serve of Amy Stubbs said he didn’t take Bonvillain (four digs, nine it as demeaning, but I do kills, fi ve aces). think it is a bit embarrassing. Benjamin Oliver Hicks/Staff “We started off pretty slop- It may have been someone H.L. Bourgeois’ Tevyn Johnson tackles South Terrebonne running back Cristian Wallis during a Sept. 5 game at Tom B. Smith py, which is something we from the SEC Network want- Stadium in Houma. Some in the area have voiced concerns over the condition of the fi eld. never do,” Houma Christian ing to move the game along coach Samantha Ordoyne to save the ratings. said. “We usually start off Anyway, we knew it was good. I just decided to sub going to be a tough road with people in and see if they were games against Air Force and willing to step it up. I think Arkansas to begin the sea- it got our starters ready and son. The Colonels’ 0-2 record willing to step it up and play was expected but getting hard. After that, they seemed outscored 117-23 and giving Muddy Situation to all push through and come up 1,034 rushing yards does out on top. I’m very proud that make it diffi cult in accepting they picked it up and came those expectations. out with the victory.” Here is a history lesson Concerns arise over football-field conditions Houma Christian (6-2 over- about Nicholls football, all) got down early in the fi rst which started in 1972. In its game but rallied back to take history, the football program Chris Singleton “Worst fi eld conditions I have been on in ball like you want to. It put us out of our com- the lead. With the set tied at has produced 14 non-losing Staff Writer 30 years,” South Terrebonne coach Richard fort zone. We had trouble getting the snaps. 15, the Lady Trojans scored seasons, so its supporters Football teams in Terrebonne Parish are Curlin said. “I have never seen a fi eld like We would love to play on a better fi eld every eight of the next of the 10 are well adapted to disap- dealing with a messy — and muddy — situ- this. When it gets to this point it is about the week, but there is nothing that we as play- points behind the serve of se- pointment. But those same ation after the fi rst week of the high school safety of the kids. We very easily could have ers can do about it.” nior middle hitter Kourtney supporters are loyal and will football regular season. had kids injured playing on this stuff. This Although they fi nished with no turn- Leblanc (10 digs, seven kills, lend their undying support if Heavy rains right before the regular sea- was only Game 1. What is it going to be like overs, South Terrebonne senior running three blocks, ace) to pull they see hope and potential, son opener between South Terrebonne later on? I don’t see them having anything back Cristian Wallis, who rushed for 134 away for the win. and Saturday’s game against High and H.L. Bourgeois High on Friday left after this.” yards and two touchdowns in the horrid Central Lafourche (3-3) Henderson State could pro- turned the majority of grass playing surface Athletes who played on the fi eld Friday conditions, said he took home a lot of mud jumped out to an early lead in vide the spark the loyalists at Tom B. Smith Stadium into a wet, muddy said it was hard to keep their footing on the after the game. the second game as well, only need. mix by the opening kickoff. extra sloppy fi eld. “After the fi rst period, you couldn’t even to see the Lady Warriors rally Last season, the Colonels South Terrebonne won the game 43-14, “When you run an offense like we run, see my jersey number anymore,” Wallis again to tie it at 11. The Lady gave us hope with a win over but most of the talk after was about the con- which is a spread, we rely on passing the said. “By the time the end of the game came Trojans regained the lead and Western Michigan and a ditions both teams endured for four quar- ball,” H.L. Bourgeois senior quarterback around, I had mud in my eyes, mouth and all never looked back, including stellar performance against ters, which coaches say could have caused Todd Adkins said. “When you have those Northwestern State, but that major injury for anyone on the fi eld. conditions, you really can’t throw the foot- hope faded quickly in a six- | See Field, 3B | | See Warriors, 3B | game losing streak. Nicholls’ losing streak is now eight games, and while the goal is to win, Nicholls also wants to survive the nonconference HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL slate with enough healthy bodies for conference com- petition. Lady Braves win for their coach With three FBS teams on the schedule, winning one of those games would prove Jordon Legendre serve-receive, working as a win three straight points to and has proved to be dif- Sports Correspondent team, be prepared for (Tues- get the score to 20-13, but H.L. fi cult. That is why Saturday’s GRAY — Playing without your day), and they really come out Bourgeois fi nished with a 5-0 game against Henderson head coach on the bench can be here and just did exactly what run to win the game 25-13. State is so important. diffi cult, but the H.L. Bourgeois they needed to do.” The Lady Gators also lost se- If we are to believe Nicholls Lady Braves handled it well in H.L. Bourgeois (6-2 overall) nior captain Dariane Dardar to (picked to fi nish ninth in the Tuesday’s nondistrict volleyball jumped out to an early 4-1 lead, an injury during the fi rst game. Southland Conference) will match against the South Terre- but kills from Stephanie LeB- “We had to move some people prove the preseason polls bonne Lady Gators. eouf and Claire LeBlanc (nine around,” South Terrebonne wrong, defeating Henderson With head coach Peter Verret kills) helped the Lady Gators tie coach Richard Sasser said. “Our State would give some cre- out ill, assistant coach Brook the game at 6. With the score at libero had to move to the out- dence to that being possible. Porche took the reigns as the , the Lady Braves would go on side, we had to put another girl Henderson State is a Divi- Lady Braves defeated South a 10-0 run, featuring kills from in there, we had to leave one of sion II power and a serious Terrebonne, 25-13, 25-8, 25-22. Chloe’ Ryder (10 kills), Madi- our middles in to play back row. contender for a national “Even though we don’t have son Percle (three aces, eight Not our optimal combination of Coach Peter here, they really digs), and Madison Touchard Chris Heller/Staff focused on practice (Monday),” (10 kills) to take control of the H.L. Bourgeois’ Chloe’ Ryder (13) hits the ball over the net | See Renois, 3B | Porche said. “All we did was game. South Terrebonne would | See HLB, 3B | during Tuesday’s match against South Terrebonne in Gray. THE COURIER | WEDNESDAY , SEPTEMBER 10 , 2 0 1 4 3 B

Goodell says NFL didn’t game having the lead for most sistant coach Whitney Prejean Hannah Naquin with 19 assists, Warriors of it and scoring ten of the last said. “Unfortunately, we kind seven digs, and three kills and 12 points to close it out. of self-destructed a little bit. Alicia Johnson with 13 kills, see video before this week CONTINUED FROM 1B The fi nal game went back- We have a couple of injuries and fi ve digs, and four aces. Faith

and-forth until the Lady War- we’re dealing with those. I threw Pierce had three aces and Cam- Rob Maaddi by TMZ Sports and another a run of seven straight points riors took the lead 6-4 after a new lineup at them today. They eron Beal had nine digs. AP Pro Football Writer shown later to The Associated down the stretch. back-to-back kills from Di- adjusted well and we played well. Leading the way for Central ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — As Press by a law enforcement offi - Trailing 8-7 in the third onhjae Thomas (11 kills, two We just have to learn how to Lafourche was Hope Breaux questions arose about how the cial, show Rice punching Janay game, Houma Christian went blocks). Houma Christian held push past disappointment, push with 14 digs, 11 assists and four NFL investigated domestic Palmer — who is now his wife on a six-point run along with on to the lead the rest of the way past mistakes, and self-correct. kills. Trudy Adams had six kills violence allegations against — at an Atlantic City casino in the 10-point run to take the set for the victory. We’re still a young team. We just and six digs, while Tabithia Ray Rice, Commissioner Roger February. and switch the momentum of “I’m really proud of the way have to look forward to the best Conrad had six kills, Carrie Goodell said Tuesday the league They are graphic, and show the match. Houma Christian they came out here in the be- from them.” Falgout had eight digs, and Em- asked for, but was not given, vid- more detail than an initial video took command of the fourth ginning,” Central Lafourche as- Houma Christian was led by ily Ratley had seven assists. eo showing the ex-Ravens run- released by TMZ in July that ning back punching his then- showed him dragging her from fi ancee on an elevator. an elevator. was canceled due to no available watering it with its sprinkler but he believes it would be in Goodell told CBS that “no one After the latest TMZ video lights at Southdown Stadium. system. As of Tuesday, Cur- the best interest to fi nd ways to in the NFL, to my knowledge” made its way around the Inter- Field Also, Ellender will host H.L. lin said the grass fi eld at South fund both. He said the best situ- had seen a new video of what net, the Ravens cut Rice and the CONTINUED FROM 1B Bourgeois in a freshman foot- Terrebonne Memorial Sta- ation for all would be to have happened on the elevator until it league barred him indefi nitely. ball game at 4:30 p.m. Wednes- dium was in good shape, even turf fi elds at both stadiums at was posted online. But the video renewed criticism over. Even in my hair. Football day at Ellender’s practice fi eld, after hosting a game between Terrebonne and South Terre- “We assumed that there was about the NFL’s decision to ini- is played in bad conditions, but and junior-varsity game will Madison Prep and Ellender bonne, along with smaller 50- a video. We asked for video. But tially suspend Rice for just two it was nasty (Friday).” follow. last week. yard turf fi elds at Ellender and we were never granted that op- games, and raised questions The state of the football fi elds Douglas said the moves are Curlin said he doesn’t believe H.L. Bourgeois. portunity,” Goodell said. about how strenuously the case in Terrebonne Parish have designed to give the School the work Terrebonne fi eld was “I think if we put our mind Two videos, one released was investigated. been an issue for years. There Board more time to repair any handled properly. together and really be serious are only two football stadiums issues with the playing fi eld be- “What they got left on that about doing it, I think there is a shared by four public high fore the next scheduled football field at Terrebonne, I don’t strong possibility we can make ent is equal to some Southland schools and three junior high game at Tom B. Smith Stadium know if I would put my kid out it happen,” Harding said. “I Renois Conference teams, and they teams in the parish. between Ellender High and there to play a game,” Curlin think it is time. It’s 2014. I just should be a tough test for the Terrebonne High and H.L. Terrebonne High on Sept. 19. said. “It’s too dangerous.” think building turf fi elds is go- CONTINUED FROM 1B Colonels. Bourgeois High share Tom B. With no games held at the fi eld Cameron Clement, a senior ing to uplift the programs.” But it is a test Nicholls needs Smith Stadium on Terrebonne’s for 14 days, he hopes the condi- defensive lineman at Terre- With more public and private championship and won their to pass to provide the hope campus in Houma with its feeder tions will improve. bonne High, said he has seen high schools across the state season-opener over Southern there are potentially better schools in Houma Junior High “The main thing is that many injuries happen due to installing turf fi elds, Curlin Narazene, 72-7. things to come in conference and Evergreen Junior High. you would like to have a nice unsafe fi eld conditions. said it is a matter of time before I’m guessing the Reddies’ tal- competition. South Terrebonne High and El- green fi eld,” Douglas said. “Of “When a fi eld gets like that, Terrebonne gets on board with lender High Schools both play course, we don’t have that right it’s diffi cult to play on,” Cam the movement. at South Terrebonne Memorial now. We’ve had strong rains Clement said. “I think it’s more Curlin said the turf could not loss, the defense should assume Stadium in Bourg with Oaklawn lately. You need rains to make injury prone too. I can recall only be used for football pur- the brunt of it, Galette said. Junior High and other feeder the grass grow, but sometimes sometimes when I’m just run- poses, but also soccer matches Saints “Just watching the fi lm, how schools. After football season, too much of it is not good. We’re ning down the fi eld, and I’ve and other school functions. CONTINUED FROM 1B much more can our offense do soccer teams use the facilities. going to make sure that before rolled my ankle. I often worry Field Turf is known for lasting to help us out in an away game?” With so many teams sharing anybody steps foot on that fi eld about our running backs or re- up to 10 years. to drop into coverage. he said. “They play phenomenal, the two football stadiums, it has and play a football game, that ceivers trying to make a play “I think eventually there is “That was the main game they ran the ball well, passed led to poor fi eld conditions dur- the fi eld is safe.” on the fi eld and then trying to going to be turf fi elds in this plan,” Galette said. “(Defensive the ball well. We got to get take- ing sporting events, especially In February, Douglas said cut and they are slipping every parish,” Curlin said. “It’s the coordinator Rob Ryan) believed aways, we got to stop the run, we with frequent rainy weather the school district designated where.” perfect situation for us when in Cam (Jordan) and I and the can’t let them throw for over 400 this time of year. $20,000 to go toward refur- Schexnayder said there you have four schools that play other guys, Akiem (Hicks), and yards. It’s ridiculous We have to Players, coaches and fans are bishing the grass fi eld at Tom are other hazards at Tom B. on two fi elds then all their feed- we just didn’t get it done. It was do a way better job, especially wondering if anything can be B. Smith Stadium. The project Smith Stadium being ignored, er schools. You can even have a nightmare; it was terrible and if Rob’s going to trust our four done to fi x the fi eld conditions included removing all existing including holes and cracks on (Terrebonne Parish Recre- I know we’ll never rush like that man rush to get there. It’s not with at least nine more weeks “dead” grass, putting down the track and runways around ation) games on the weekends. again — that’s just a fact.” going to happen again.” left in the football season. new dirt and replanting new the fi eld that makes it unable It’s just too much of an advan- The Saints (0-1 overall) only With Galette and his team- “I’ve played on that field grass seeds. to host track and fi eld meets, tage to not have it.” sack came courtesy of Tyrunn mates so clearly irked by their when I was in high school at Douglas said the project got lighting issues with the stadi- In the last two years, two lo- Walker in the fourth quarter. inability to contain Ryan, does Terrebonne. I’ve coached on off to a late start and didn’t be- um lights and scoreboard and cal high schools stadiums at Still, they were close on several Payton worry about them put- that fi eld. Sometimes it got wet gin until summer. He said it was unclean environments in the E.D. White Catholic and St. occasions. ting too much pressure on from rain, but I’ve never seen delayed because the School press box and restrooms. James have installed turf. “When you rush four, you themselves against Cleveland anything as bad as that on Fri- Board was still in the process of Schexnayder said Tom B. E.D. White coach Chris hope to have some disruption at (0-1) this week? day,” said H.L. Bourgeois foot- seeking bids from contractors Smith Stadium is in dire need Bergeron, who is a Terrebonne times,” Saints head coach Sean “I like the fact that we have got ball public address announcer to complete the work. of repair. graduate, said the school has Payton said. “You hope to have players that — all of us, coaches Steven Schexnayder, who has Because of the late start, “We have two Class 5A experienced many benefi ts of a little bit more pressure. He’s the same way — are willing to worked as a teacher and coach Douglas said the fi eld didn’t schools that use the stadium. having turf, which along with (Ryan) someone who gets the look at it and say, ‘We have got to at H.L. Bourgeois and Vandebilt have enough time to grow We just need to get something adding light structures cost ball out in the shotgun; credit be better in these areas.’” Catholic for 32 years. “It was un- grass before the season. that a lot of people are going to nearly $1 million. him, he played very well. That Payton said each Monday, win believable that both teams had Tom B. Smith Stadium hosted be proud about,” said Schex- “It’s been tremendous to being said, you just want some or lose, he cautions the whole to play in it. Nobody should have two varsity football games last nayder, a 1970 Terrebonne have,” Bergeron said. “We al- disruption.” team about overreacting, which to play in that kind of mess.” week, and players, coaches and graduate. “The stadium should ways know no matter what the While there was plenty of can lead to players putting undo spectators said they noticed be in better shape than what it weather conditions are, you blame to go around after the pressure on themselves. HELP ON THE WAY? more brown-looking muddy is. It should represent Terre- have to have a place to practice. Graham Douglas, the Ter- areas than green grass, uneven bonne Parish.” There is not the extra risk of in- rebonne Secondary Education mud holes that could cause Douglas said the School jury you get with a sloppy fi eld. Manual (eight kills, fi ve blocks), Supervisor, said the School major leg injuries to athletes, Board will monitor the fi eld You don’t ever have to worry HLB Jazlin Street (four aces, three Board is aware of the fi eld is- drainage issues and scattered throughout the rest of the sea- about muddy fi eld conditions.” kills, eight digs), Caitlin Har- sues at Terrebonne’s Tom B. ant piles throughout the fi elds. son in order “to provide the Due to rainy weather and pos- CONTINUED FROM 1B ris (11 assists, two blocks and a Smith Stadium and are work- “We did make a substantial best environment possible for sibility of poor fi eld conditions, dig), Harley Bourgeois (10 digs) ing to improve conditions be- investment this summer to get all student-athletes.” the Terrebonne Parish varsity personnel, but we had to make and MaKinley Carter (fi ve kills, fore the next scheduled game the fi elds up to par,” Douglas “We will make sure the fi elds jamboree at South Terrebonne do with what we had.” two blocks). at the venue. said. “Unfortunately, the work are safe,” Douglas said. “The was canceled on Aug. 28. If the The Lady Braves continued On Tuesday, Douglas said that was done at Tom B. Smith well-being of young men is very stadium had turf, Curlin said dominating in the second game, BERWICK DEF. TERREBONNE he visited the fi eld and a deci- didn’t come out the way we important to us. We will never the jamboree would’ve went on with a Touchard kill giving them At Berwick, the Lady Tigers sion was made to move Fri- were expecting it to come out, put anyone at risk. We’re not as planned. a 7-2 lead. A 9-0 run with an ace (4-3 overall) lost to Berwick 14- day’s scheduled nondistrict especially with the extreme taking this situation lightly. Ellender High senior line- for Sam Jobson and a block for 25, 21-25, 25-13, 22-25. varsity football game between amount of rain that we’ve had Football is big in this area. It is backer/defensive end Brandon Kylie Cook extended the H. L. Roynisha James had eight Ellender and H.L. Bourgeois this summer. It wasn’t so much big for all our high school kids. Brinson said all four varsity foot- Bourgeois lead to 17-4. A kill kills and three blocks for Terre- to 2:30 p.m. Saturday at South a lack of money. I think it was We want to make sure that they ball teams missed the chance of from Macie Falgout (seven bonne, while JayLyn Jones had Terrebonne Memorial Sta- more of a lack of suffi cient time are playing at the best fi eld they getting that fi nal preparation digs) got the Lady Gators with- seven blocks and CeCe Hazard dium. H.L. Bourgeois will still to get the work done and allow- can play at so they will feel com- for the regular season. in 11, but the Lady Braves again added 22 digs. be considered the home team ing the grass to grow.” fortable with.” “I think that both (Terre- fi nished with a 6-0 run, includ- at the game. Terrebonne High athletic bonne) stadiums need turf ing a kill for Ryder, to take the ST. JOHN It will be the second varsity director Joe Clement declined TURF DREAMS because when it rains no one second game 25-8. DEF. VANDEBILT CATHOLIC football game played at South to comment on the fi eld con- The past and current fi eld is- would have to worry about play- H.L. Bourgeois looked set to At Plaquemine, the Lady Ter- Terrebonne’s fi eld this week. ditions at the stadium, but he sues have raised questions on ing in mud,” Brinson said. “It fi nish the match when a Tayler riers dropped to 0-6 overall with Terrebonne High is scheduled mentioned that the work done whether artifi cial Field Turf was very disappointing that it Buselle (12 digs) kill started a a 21-25, 9-25, 26-24, 15-25 non- to play South Terrebonne High to repair the fi eld “wasn’t what will be installed at both of Ter- was canceled. Everyone was 6-1 run, giving the Lady Braves district loss. at 7 p.m. Friday in Bourg. I expected.” rebonne’s football stadiums in fi red up to play, but we couldn’t. a 22-11 lead, but the team began Leaders for Vandebilt were Douglas said several other Other public-school head the future. We spent all week getting ready to struggle keeping the ball in Brittany Diefienderfer (nine games involving junior-varsi- varsity football coaches — Ter- School Board member Greg- for nothing.” play. South Terrebonne took ad- kills, 12 digs and an ace), Emily ty, freshman and junior high rebonne’s Gary Hill, Ellender’s ory Harding said he is a strong The players said they don’t vantage, going on an 8-0 run to Gauthreaux (eight kills) Mag- teams have changed. Terry Washington and H.L. proponent of adding turf fi elds know if anything can be done get within three at 22-19. A kill gie Hamilton (10 digs), Ally Douglas said the freshman Bourgeois’ Daron Franklin — to Terrebonne’s football sta- to fi x the current fi eld issues from Ryder gave H.L. Bourgeois Barrios (10 digs) and Gabby football game between Houma all had no comment on the state diums. He said he will put it during the current season, but match point. The Lady Gators Gauthreaux (13 assists). Junior High and South Ter- of the football fi elds. on the agenda for next week’s they still plan to go out every saved two thanks to kills from Taylor Boudreaux, Savannah rebonne has been moved to Curlin said the fi eld at South School-Board meeting, which game and give it their all. LeBlanc, but a kill from Percle Cutting and Kylie King each Southdown Stadium in Houma Terrebonne High also received he said will be the fi rst time the “It’s not as bad as it was last fi nally gave the Lady Braves the had four blocks. on 4:30 today. The eighth-grade work before the season, with the matter will be addressed. year, but if it keep raining, the game 25-22 and the match. game between Houma Junior School Board allocating $5,000 Harding said finding the fi eld won’t make it to Week 10 of “They executed the ball very ST. JOSEPH’S ACADEMY High and Evergreen has been for similar improvements at the money to pay for turf fi elds the season,” Terrebonne senior well,” Porche said. “They served DEF E.D. WHITE CATHOLIC postponed until a future date, Bourg-based stadium. have been an issue in the past, receiver Devon Madison said. well when they needed to. They At Baton Rouge, the Lady and a junior-varsity game be- Curlin said South Terre- especially with topics like “Playing on it is not the best, passed when they needed to, Cardinals (2-4) was swept by St. tween South Terrebonne and bonne’s coaches and staff main- teacher pay raises at the top but we have to work with it be- and we just moved the offense Joseph’s Academy 15-25, 21-25, Terrebonne scheduled for today tained the fi eld by constantly of the School Board’s agenda, cause it’s the best we’ve got.” the whole entire time, and that’s 19-25. what helped us in that game.” Michelle Riviere led E.D. Sasser said the performance White with 10 kills, 14 digs and was not what he was expecting eight blocks, while Sydney Bor- Your Choice of a Plastic from his team. dis had two kills, 12 digs and a “We knew Bourgeois would be block and Megan Waguespack Surgeon is Important a good team,” Sasser said. “We notched 12 assists. have to limit our mistakes in or- der to beat a team like that, and MCGEHEE DEF. ASSUMPTION What is a we made too many mistakes. At New Orleans, the Lady Cosmetic SPECIALIZING IN Bourgeois took advantage of Mustangs lost their fi rst match Surgeon? our lack of defending deep on of the season in a fi ve-game ALZHEIMER’S & the court. We played well at the thriller against McGehee 15-25, net, but they got their kills. We 25-22, 22-25, 25-22, 6-11. What is a fought hard at the end of that Kevreion Ward led Assump- DEMENTIA CARE last set, I was proud of that.” tion (7-1 overall) with 11 kills, Plastic Porche said she was also six aces and digs each, while Surgeon? COME proud of her team’s response to other leaders were Lorraine South Terrebonne’s run at the Baker (eight kills), Sunni Rae TOUR end of the third game. Blanchard (26 assists, nine There May Be TODAY “It was nice to see,” Porche digs), Caroline Gonzales (25 said. “Lately, they’ve just been digs) and Hannah Diggs (four a Difference. amazing. Any time they get in blocks). a sticky situation, they pull to- gether, do what they need to do, WEST ST. JOHN DEF. ST. JAMES and just play volleyball.” At Edgard, the Lady Wildcats were swept 10-25, 10-25, 6-25. SOUTH LAFOURCHE DEF. Leaders for St. James were COVENANT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Chardaih Joseph (24 digs, four At Gray, the Lady Tarpons kills) and Nadia Braud (15 digs, O’Neil Engeron , MD picked up a 22-25, 25-22, 25-13, seven kills, two blocks and an 615 Dunn St. 28-26 win over the Lady Lions. ace). Locally Owned & Operated Leaders for Covenant Chris- Board Certi!ed Houma, LA 70360 220 Valhi Blvd. in Houma 985.868.8400 tian were Lauren Rodrigue (10 —Staff Writer Chris Singleton Plastic Surgeon digs and an ace), Dominique contributed to this story. (985) 868-2320 www.SugarMillPoint.net NFL Goodell defends Rice’s punishment Sports 2B B SECTION | SAT URDAY, AU G UST 2, 2014 | WWW.HOU M A TODAY.COM | WWW.D A I L YCOMET.COM

COLLEGE FOOTBALL New-look Colonels begin fall camp Nicholls will hold second practice of fall camp at 9 this morning in Thibodaux.

Teddy Renois Friday and now the process just over. Overall, a very positive from the eye-test he likes what Staff Writer needs to build leading into the practice and we went pretty long he sees. Nicholls State University season opener at Air Force on and it was humid out here. We “The biggest thing is we got sported a new look in its first Aug. 30. tested well in conditioning and I some competition there. I know practice of fall camp on Friday. “What I do like is the way we was pleased with that.” they are chomping at the bit be- Working under the lights of look. It has taken some time but The one area with the most cause as a lineman you want to John L. Guidry Stadium, the we do have a lot of quality ath- new faces is the defensive line. put your pads on and get ready. I Colonels broke new helmets to letes out here. We feel like we Nicholls finished at the bottom know it will be a stronger group begin fall camp in hopes of hav- have more depth and it is early, of the FCS football in total de- than in the past,” Stubbs said. ing a different outcome in 2014. but we simulated some of the fense and rush defense and gen- “We know early in the season The helmets weren’t the only new kids in there,” Stubbs said. erated only 11 sacks last season with the heat we have to have new items at practice as several “I’m sure you as a reporter were leading Stubbs to do an almost a rotation and now we feel we transfers and incoming fresh- trying to catch up with the new complete overhaul of his defen- have some guys that give us the men got their first taste of play- faces and we have so many right sive line. ability to do that.” ing for the Colonels. now. The biggest thing right Stubbs said he will get a bet- What wasn’t new in the prac- Klint Landry/Correspondent Nicholls head coach Charlie now is we are building that team ter idea of how talented these Nicholls State freshman offensive tackle Chris Cockran par- Stubbs said the process of mesh- concept and that camaraderie new linemen are once the pads ticipates in a drill during the first day of fall camp on Friday. ing everyone together began on and we did have a lot of carry are put on next week, but just | See Colonels, 3B |

NFL HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL NFL HALL OF FAME Ingram Strahan ranks Leaving expects Saints emotional RBs high a Legacy ceremony

John Warow The Associated Press Brett Martel CANTON, Ohio — Michael The Associated Press Strahan is pleased to know he W H I T E SU L PH U R is scheduled to go last during SPRINGS, W.Va. — Mark the Pro Football Hall of Fame Ingram speaks boldly about induction ceremonies. the promise of New Orleans’ That means the former running game, considering New York Giants star pass- the Saints ranked near the rusher won’t be the first to bottom of the NFL in rushing break down in tears once the last season and then traded 2014 seven-member class is away Darren Sproles. inducted today. “I don’t think many teams “I am not going to be the have as deep a running back first one to crack,” Strahan corps as we do and as good pronounced with a familiar as a running corps as we do,” gap-toothed grin Friday. “But Ingram said. “I’d put our run- it’ll be interesting. I just told ning corps up with anyone the guys, ‘It’s OK. If you’re go- in the league. So I think just ing to cry, this is the opportu- the fact that we’re all working nity to cry where nobody can hard and we push each other say anything to you.’” to be better, that’s what’s go- Staff File Photo If that’s the case, Andre ing to help us have a lot of suc- Former Ellender girls basketball coach Kenneth Dixon (right) instructs his players during a 2007 practice session. Reed might not make it cess this season.” through Friday. The former Ingram is expected to be Buffalo Bills receiver was part of a mix that includes ver- having trouble keeping his satile veteran Pierre Thomas emotions in check after meet- and powerful second-year pro ing former teammate, quar- Khiry Robinson. terback Jim Kelly, who is bat- While the Saints averaged a tling cancer. 25th-ranked 92 yards rushing “I almost broke down and last season, all three running cried,” Reed said. “Three backs were effective in stints, months ago, we didn’t know leaving them confident about if (Kelly) was going to be in their potential to provide far Canton. Yeah, my heart kind more consistent production of beat a bit faster when I saw this fall. him.” “We have a lot of good run- There’ll be plenty of emo- ning backs here. We are go- tions given the varied back- ing to split the (carries),” grounds of the inductees. said Thomas, now entering It’s a group that includes his eighth season. “I want two first-time ballot selec- these guys to shine also, but I tions, Tampa Bay linebacker also told them it’s going to be Staff File Art Staff File Art Derrick Brooks and Seattle tough because I am going to Former Ellender coach Kenneth Dixon (left) receives the game Former Ellender coach Kenneth Dixon coaches during the offensive tackle Walter Jones. make sure it’s tough.” ball after winning the 2007 Class 5A state championship. Class 5A state finals against Southwood High in 2007. Then there’s Arizona/St. Sidelined five games by Louis defensive back Aeneas Williams and Oakland’s Ray Guy, the first full-time punter | See Ingram, 3B | Retired coach reflects on legendary career inducted. And don’t forget Atlanta/ Philadelphia defensive end Chris Singleton basketball instructions, as well as occasion- what he has brought to the community and Claude Humphrey, who wait- Staff Writer al jokes and motivational words, from the the school. It’s going to be hard to replace ed 28 years to hear his name Ellender High’s famed “House of Pain” sideline is no longer there. someone like that.” called. gym was busy with its usual summer activ- An inspiring leader who is known for ac- Ellender’s players are also coping with “It’s a great moment,” said ity Thursday. cepting nothing but the best from his play- the change. For the first time in their prep the 70-year-old Humphrey, School is out until Aug. 11, but the players ers both on the basketball court and in the careers, they are preparing for a school year who earned six Pro Bowl on Ellender’s girls basketball teams flocked classroom is nowhere to be found. and basketball season without Dixon. selections during a 13-year to the gym to take part in their scheduled The person missing is Kenneth Dixon, a “It’s going to be different without him career. “It came at a time in offseason summer workouts. longtime Ellender girls basketball coach, here,” senior standout Kiara Scott said. my life where there wasn’t a The scene at the beginning is somewhat who retired in June. “When you think of Ellender, you think of whole lot of other things go- laid back as players get ready, but it turns Since Dixon, 64, made the decision to Coach Dixon. He was such a good coach ing on. It gave the career I serious when it is time to get to work. step away from a career that featured four to us, and he had such as great personality worked so hard on, a little re- The Lady Patriots take turns shooting to state championships, two state runner-up too. I’m going to miss him a lot.” juvenation.” improve their jump shots and free throws. titles and 13 district championships, he has Humphrey brings the his- They work on fundamentals such as pass- left behind a big void that is noticed by El- ‘A TOUGH DECISION’ tory and Strahan the buzz, in ing, rebounding and defense. They run lender’s administration, coaches, players Dixon worked for 40 years as a basketball having become a commercial suicide drills around the court and climb up and fans. coach, spending 16 years at various schools pitchman and talk-show host. the gym’s bleachers to improve condition- “I look around at times and expect him in Texas before moving to Louisiana and And Guy is bringing a 20- Photo Credit ing. to come walking through the front doors of becoming Ellender’s girls basketball coach member punter posse to help New Orleans Saints running It is simply a typical summer workout for the gym, but he’s no longer here,” Ellender in 1992. him celebrate. back Mark Ingram (22) runs the Lady Patriots in the “House of Pain.” athletic director Terry Washington said. At Ellender, Dixon dedicated most of his “It’s bigger than me,” said during training camp prac- But this summer, for the first time in 22 “It’s going to be tough. Coach Dixon is a leg- tice on Friday. years, there is something different. end, not only for what he has done with girls A familiar voice known for shouting out basketball program, it’s his presence and | See Coach, 3B | | See Ceremony, 3B | SATURDAY, A UGUS T 2, 2014 3B

little rust, the group performed though the helmets weren’t a with a new defensive coordina- been here for a few years and it with his right hand to come Colonels well. finished product. tor in Steve Adams, practice is that know each other, the young down with the football. CONTINUED FROM 1B “I think today went better than “I love it and I can’t wait to put more of a mental challenge for guys need to get work. We just

any other first day we had in the the ‘N’ on it. We also have some the defense right now. have to get everyone on the WHAT’S ON TAP past. It was a lot more crisp and gear so I can’t wait to break it out “I think we made some really same page.” Nicholls will hold its second clean, in the past we might have and show the Southland Confer- good progress for the first day. practice in helmets starting at 9 tice was the ongoing quarter- struggled a bit, but that wasn’t ence,” Figaro said. It is still tough mentally for the PLAY OF THE DAY a.m. today. back battle between incumbent the case,” Figaro said. “I judged new guys and we are trying to Redshirt freshman tight end After taking a day off on Sun- starter Tuskani Figaro and myself well, but I still have a BLENDING TOGETHER get them going. The older guys Stephen LeBouef showed good day, the Colonels return to prac- Kalen Henderson, Beaux He- lot to work on. I have to get my Besides the defensive line, the know what to do and play off hands in 7-on-7 drill. tice at 9 a.m. on Monday as the bert and Dash Duncan. hips and feet right, but the ball Colonels have several transfers each other, so it is up to us to get LeBouef ran down the seam team will work in shells. All four quarterbacks com- is coming out better and I work and freshmen at linebacker and the younger guys going,” senior and had to reach high for a pass The first practice in full pads pleted passes in 7-on-7 drills and hard over the summer.” in the secondary. linebacker Tyler Harrington from Figaro. is at 9 a.m. on Wednesday and team drills and Figaro said once Figaro also gave the new With several new players and said. LeBouef had the ball stick into the first two-a-day is on Thurs- the quarterbacks shook off a helmets a passing grade even new defensive coaches along “We got a good group that has his left hand then he secured day.

the restroom, get some food, Strahan said. “Plain and simple, Kelly-quarterbacked team that ished with 55 interceptions, plus being part of history,” said Ceremony and the ball would still be in the you’ve got to humble yourself made and lost four consecutive six in the postseason. Brooks who then listed the ac- CONTINUED FROM 1B air. That’s what Ray Guy means because everybody here has Super Bowl appearances in the Jones is regarded as one of complishments of each and ev- in terms of his influence on the had their moment.” early 1990s. He ranked fourth the game’s best tackles during a ery one of his fellow inductees. Guy, who is being inducted 28 game of football.” Strahan had plenty in estab- in the NFL with 13,198 yards 12-season career in Seattle. He ended with Guy, by not- years after he retired. “It is a There are plenty of eye-pop- lishing himself as one of the receiving at the time he retired And then there’s Brooks, an ing the punter’s long wait to be part of them, too, because I am ping stats among a class that NFL’s top pass-rushers over a after the 2000 season. 11-time Pro Bowl selection. inducted. now representing every one of has a combined 55 Pro Bowl se- 15-year career that ended after Guy was selected to the NFL’s Though comparably undersized “To hear Ray talk about him them.” lections. helping the Giants beat New 75th anniversary team, and at 6 feet and 232 pounds, he going in, he doesn’t talk about At 64, Guy also holds a special And they are all considered England in the 2008 Super helped change the punter posi- helped anchor the Buccaneers’ the wait. He talks about the fact place among members of his in- equals, no matter their posi- Bowl. He set the league’s single- tion by introducing terms such defense that keyed a Super Bowl that he’s here,” Brooks said. duction class. tions. season record with 22 1/2 sacks as “hang time” into the vernacu- run in 2002 and ranked among “And that’s what I’m going to “I remember watching games, “This is the Hall of Fame. in 2001, and ranks fifth on the lar. the NFL’s best for more than a talk about, not 20 years ago, but and he had this hang time,” Wil- It’s not about one player or one all-time list with 141 1/2. Williams was an eight-time decade. talking about what we’re doing liams said. “I was able to go to person and what they’ve done,” Reed was a member of the Pro Bowl selection, who fin- “I’m excited about our class, now.”

for more increases the likeli- the postseason. He played a piv- “It’s like day and night from to him the Saints are recom- since Thursday afternoon’s Ingram hood of going backward. otal part in New Orleans’ game- last year,” Robinson said. “I feel mitted to bringing that type of walk-through, saying only that He also hasn’t allowed his winning drive at Philadelphia, like I’m picking it up a lot more ground game back. his policy of not discussing inju- CONTINUED FROM 1B confidence to slip in the face of gaining 22 yards on three car- and understanding the defens- “We are putting more time in ries during training camp hasn’t his failure so far to live up to the ries to help the Saints consume es, the blitzes and all that more, on the running game than I have changed. ... The Saints are hold- an early season toe injury, In- hype that came with entering the final 4:54 and set up the win- along with the protections.” ever seen,” Thomas said. “It is a ing an intrasquad scrimmage gram rushed for only 386 yards the NFL as a first-round draft ning field goal. Thomas had 549 yards rush- real focus point on what we are at The Greenbrier Resort on during the 2013 regular season, choice and Heisman Trophy “He is a guy that we felt played ing to go with 513 yards receiv- trying to do this year. Saturday morning. “That’s like but then gained 146 in just two winner out of Alabama. very well in the last half of the ing in 2013 before a chest injury “We have an outstanding line really the first stage of people playoff games against Philadel- “I want to be the best back to season,” coach Sean Payton in the regular season finale kept that gets the job done. We just seriously getting evaluated. So phia and Seattle. ever play the freakin’ game of said. “He is smart. He is tough.” him out of the playoffs. have to go out there and put it it’s a big day for everybody,” Now in the final year of his football,” Ingram said. “So that’s The 6-foot Robinson has lost He is healthy again and em- together,” Thomas continued. Ingram said. “People are going contract, Ingram said he is where I’m at with it.” a few pounds — down to about bracing his role as a veteran “Our run game this year is go- to be getting tackled — there’s working tirelessly to improve Robinson, who was inactive 212 — since last season and leader of the running backs. ing to be solid and something going to be some big hits, big every aspect of his game, be it for six games as a rookie, gained said he’s focused on improving Thomas was part of the Saints that we are going to be happy collisions.” pass blocking, receiving out of 224 yards in the regular season his ability to read defenses and 2009 Saints squad, which boast- about.” ——— the backfield, reading defenses, before gaining an additional 102 block on passing plays so coach- ed a sixth-ranked running game Notes: Payton declined on AP NFL website: www.pro32. or learning the patience to ac- yards on 21 playoff carries, aver- es will have the confidence to (132 yards per game) en route to Friday to discuss S Champ Bai- ap.org and www.twitter.com/ cept modest gains when trying aging nearly 5 yards per run in play him in more situations. a Super Bowl title. It seems clear ley’s absences from practice AP—NFL

of Louisiana Tech and Deana Al- years of his life. Coach len of the University of Florida. “He was a father first, men- CONTINUED FROM 1B It also will include many of his tor and a coach,” Katrell Dixon

recent players. Amari Banks, said. “Those three words prob- time toward coaching bas- who graduated this year, signed ably sum up what he has meant ketball, traveling to and from with Baton Rouge Community to me in my life. It’s a blessing games on the road and working College in May and Kiara Scott, for a male to have his father in as a teacher. who is entering her senior sea- their life. He’s always been there It was something Dixon loved son, recently committed to play for us. He was a father figure to to do, but at the end of the 2013- at the University of Arkansas- many kids in Terrebonne Par- 14 school year, he was forced to Little Rock. ish, not just Ellender. He loves step away and shift his priorities Ellender boys basketball people, and he loves what he to more personal matters. coach Cornell Scott, who is Ki- did. I guess at the end of the day, Dixon said his 80-year-old ara’s father, said Dixon played a basketball was the tool he was mother, Roma Jean Baker-Dix- major role in his daughter’s de- able to use to share that love.” on, became ill and could no lon- velopment. ger take care of herself. “He was instrumental in THE FUTURE He said it led to his decision to guiding her along in her high Dixon said he will miss coach- retire as Ellender’s coach, which school career,” Cornell Scott ing and teaching, and if the right will give him more free time to said. “We’re very thankful. He situation comes up, he would travel to his mother’s home in put her in a good situation and consider returning to the pro- Bunkie to help take care of her. taught her a lot. My daughter fession one day. “I wasn’t comfortable let- idolized Coach Dixon growing In the meantime, he is happy ting her stay by herself. I didn’t up and always wanted to play for giving back to his family and want her to be alone, so I had to him. He was big mentor to me. enjoying his free time, which make that decision,” Dixon said We’re going to miss him.” includes playing tennis. during a phone interview with Submitted Photo Dixon said he was hard on With the upcoming school The Courier and Daily Comet Former Ellender coach Kenneth Dixon poses with players (from left) Kiara Scott, Kelcie Scott his players because he wanted season getting ready to start, on Wednesday, which was his and Sky Jasper after the school’s athletic banquet on May 7. them to strive for excellence Dixon said it will take some first since retiring in June. “I on the basketball court, in the time to get used to not waking could’ve coached another three, classroom and in every phase of up early in the morning and go- four or five more years, but this relationships he created with important early influence on his It was a great experience work- their lives. He didn’t let up until ing to work. was something I had to do to be former players, school faculty, career. He later moved to the ing with him. I enjoyed it so they came back and showed him “It’s going to take me a while comfortable. I just had to do it.” parents, fans and community Houston area, where he held much.” their college degrees. to adjust, but God will get me Dixon said it was “a tough leaders, who he praised for step- several coaching jobs mainly on Washington, who is beginning “I was just proud of all my play- through it,” Dixon said. “I feel decision” to step down from ping up and contributing to his the high school level. his fourth year as Ellender’s ers,” Dixon said. “I knew they better knowing that I can keep Ellender. Over the past year, program’s success. In 1992, Ellender High was football coach and his second were capable. I knew they were an eye on my mom. My mom is he said he constantly thought Four of the workers he took looking for a new girls basket- as the school’s athletic director, smart enough. That’s why I al- my priority right now. I feel good about whether he was ready to time to thank were contributors ball coach. Dixon’s father-in-law, said he was inspired by the way ways took them to college cam- about my decision.” go through with it. He said it Carolyn Robinson, Terri Lyons, Augustus G. Brown Sr., a former Dixon ran his program. puses during the offseason and Dixon said he was proud to was difficult to leave after suc- Cheryl Dark and Cloris Verdin, Ellender principal, encouraged “When I worked with Coach the summer. I wanted them to leave the Ellender girls basket- cessful season this year from who all stepped up and worked him to move to Houma and take Dixon, I saw his work ethic,” see that normal people walked ball program in good shape for the Lady Patriots. the concession stands at El- over the job. Washington said. “It was just around college campus, and you the new coaching staff. The Ellender had a 23-6 overall lender home games. Dixon said Dixon said it took some time the way he did things and the are normal, so put that in your school has hired former Capitol record in Dixon’s final season, they and many others did a lot to get on board, but he eventu- way his young ladies brought dreams and goals to be a college High of Baton Rouge player and which included a perfect 8-0 re- of work behind the scenes and ally decided to take the job. into it. The way they worked. student. I wanted them to be coach Adrian Blake as Dixon’s cord in District 7-4A play and a didn’t get a lot of recognition for Dixon said it ended up being It’s infectious. When I came in highly educated, and I wanted replacement. No. 8 seed in the Class 4A play- it, but he was always grateful for the best decision of his life. He here, I saw what he was doing, to influence them to be the best Dixon said he will keep in offs. Ellender won two playoff their work. molded the Lady Patriots pro- and I said, ‘I want my program that they could be.” touch with the team, and he games last season, moving on “That’s what made me proud. gram into one of the top girls to be like that.’ So you pick up on Allison Betts, a 2001 Ellender wants to see the program con- in postseason play for the first There were so many people in- basketball teams in the state. things.” graduate who went on to play tinue to grow. time since 2008. The Lady Pa- volved in the program,” Dixon He guided Ellender to seven Dixon said Ellender’s success at Xavier University of Loui- “If (the new coaches) listen triots fell in the quarterfinals to said. “I had people come in and appearances in the Girls’ Top went far and beyond his contri- siana, said Dixon was a father and do what they are supposed No. 1-seeded and eventual state volunteer their time and work 28 state tournament, which butions. He said the faculty and figure for all the players in his to do, they’ll be OK because champion Salmen. with the program even when af- includes six trips to the state staff was equally important, and program. She said Dixon did ev- the kids are good at Ellender,” Dixon said he was expecting ter their kids graduated 10 years championship game. he took pride in saying that El- erything from teach basketball Dixon said. “You have to put in to make another run at the Girls’ ago. They still supported us and Ellender has won four state lender’s girls basketball team fundamentals to offer advice on the time to work. You can’t do it Top 28 state tournament this did anything to help. Those are championships (1999, 2000, never had any major infractions any life-related problem. part-time. It’s a full-time job. It’s season, which made it more dif- the people who kept me going 2003 and 2007), two state run- or violations of Louisiana High “He always told us to focus 12 months a year, even during ficult to walk away. through everything.” ner-up titles (2001 and 2008) School Athletic Association on basketball and school and the offseason with training and “It was hard to leave,” Dixon Robinson, a retired coach and and one state semifinalist ap- rules during his tenure. to ‘leave those boys alone,’” preparing. If you do that, you’ll said. “Ellender was such a teacher who still works with and pearance (2002) under Dixon. “I didn’t do anything by my- Betts said. “During my time, be OK.” good school. The people in the supports Ellender’s sports pro- Dixon said he couldn’t have self,” Dixon said. “I had good that’s why we were so success- As time goes on, Betts said community supported us, but gram, said it was easy to help done it without the dedication athletic directors and princi- ful because he was always on Ellender will start to get used it’s a decision I had to make. I Dixon and his teams. and sacrifice of his players and pals. They kept an eye on me us. We all have memories. Even to life without Dixon, but she couldn’t go back and coach in “He expected us to be here, their families. and made sure I did things the today, we still laugh. Everybody added that it will take some time peace knowing that my mom and we knew we had to be “I knew they were capable,” right way. That’s the thing I ap- knows Coach Dixon was a hi- before that happens. was by herself and alone. I had here,” Robinson said. “We came Dixon said. “It was just their preciate. How much they gave larious person, so we have some Since he had to tend for his to do this for my mom.” because we knew he had the commitment. That made my job up their own personal time stories, but in the long run, we mother, Dixon didn’t get the Dixon’s decision to retire sent program going on. He created a lot easier.” and advice to make sure we knew his vision was to also help chance to clean out his office shock waves not only through- an environment that everyone Joseph said Dixon brought a did things the right way for our us grow and be successful.” at the end of the past school out the area, but through the wanted to be a part of. We see winning attitude that made El- young kids.” Dixon’s efforts not only served year, but Betts said everything entire state. Even people who the work he has done with the lender a state powerhouse in his players, but his own children will stay the same in honor of were close to him for years at El- girls, and how hard he pushed basketball. The success of the FATHER FIGURE — three boys: Katrell, Kendrick a man they refer to as a “living lender said they were surprised them. We wanted to come back girls program also helped influ- While winning state cham- and Karderro. legend.” when it happened. and be here to help them out.” ence the boys team, which has a pionships were fun, Dixon said Katrell, a former Vandebilt “This will always be his gym, “It really shocked me that he one state championship (1998) his proudest accomplishment Catholic girls basketball coach so there is no rush,” said Betts, retired when he did,” said for- CREATING A LEGACY and two state runner-up titles was serving as a mentor and fa- who matched up against his fa- who will work as a volunteer as- mer Ellender athletic director Before he became a state (1997 and 2007). ther figure to all of his athletes ther’s teams twice last season, sistant coach this season with and close friend Cleve Joseph, championship winning coach, “He elevated the girls, and he and students. said Dixon has always provided the Lady Patriots. “It is weird who retired last year. “He talked Dixon was a college basketball elevated the boys,” Joseph said. Academically, Dixon has for his sons and his wife Kather- just going in the gym and not about it a lot of times, but I never player at Southern University in “The boys saw how hard the helped nearly 30 of his players ine. seeing Coach Dixon, but he’ll thought that he would retire. Baton Rouge in the early 1970s. girls worked, so the boys had receive scholarships to play col- Although he lost both meet- definitely be greatly missed. He did a lot for Ellender High His first coaching job came in to work twice as hard. I learned lege basketball. That long list ings against his dad, Katrell said We appreciate everything he School.” 1974 as an assistant at Bunkie so much about basketball being includes past standouts such it was a blessing to stand along has done for the program. His After retiring, Dixon said High School under coach Frank around coach Dixon. He was a as D’Aundra Henry and Sasha the sidelines and coach against legacy will live on. We wish him he reflected on all the great Snyder, who Dixon said had an tremendous coach and person. Staidum of Tulane, Sierra Nixon a man he has admired for all 40 well in everything.” BAYOU.COM WWW.BIGFUNONTHE 28, 2014 WEEK OF FEBRUARY 22, 2014 - FEBRUARY Larose Civic HighH school Tips to help Mardi Gras Center Survival you organize basketballb o for ways to make the most of Carnival PAGE 6 dishes out LadyL Patriots 5 your Mardi exotic cuisine topt Eunice for first Gras 3A roundr win merriment 1B1 Inside today Good Afternoon, Mes Amis

FEBRUARY 21 , 2014 | 50¢ DAILY FRIDAY HOUMA, LOUISIANA | WWW.HOUMATODAY.COM ‘Mr. Mardi GOP drafting Gras’ blends bill to ease business, rate hikes

Andrew Taylor pleasure The Associated Press WASHINGTON — House GOP leaders are putting the fi nal touches on legislation that John Harper would signifi cantly weaken a recently enacted Staff Writer overhaul of the much criticized federal fl ood A stretch limousine glided insurance program, easing many premium in- down Barrow Street in a mo- creases and allowing below-market rates to be torcade and slid Thursday passed on to people buying homes with taxpay- afternoon into the portico at er-subsidized policies. the Courtyard by Marriott in The new law was enacted in 2012 and was Houma. aimed at weaning hundreds of thousands of ho- Consider the party started: meowners off of subsidized rates and required 87-year- extensive updating of the fl ood maps used to set old Blaine premiums, but its implementation has stirred Kern erupt- anxiety among many homeowners along the At- ed from the Benjamin Oliver Hicks/Staff lantic and Gulf coasts and in fl ood plains, many back seat Hercules Pa-Tu-La Float Captain Clay Naquin is ready to roll this morning at the Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center. of whom are threatened with unaffordable rate with a shout increases. and a grin. GOP aides say the measure would also re- Kern is in peal a provision that threatens hundreds of Houma to thousands of homeowners with huge premium serve as the 30th grand marshal | See Hikes, 8A | of Friday Blaine Kern night’s pa- Ready to Roll rade of the Krewe of Hercules, which Kern himself helped to found Parade forecast is bright in 1984. Mother upset over Known to many as “Mr. Mardi Gras,” Kern, who will Mary Kilpatrick I PARADE SCHEDULE & be presented with a key to the Staff Writer View online school’s reaction city Friday morning, was ac- Forget the umbrella: This Carni- KREWE INFO | 4A companied by S.P. LaRussa, val weekend will be cool and dry. parade captain of the Krewe When the Krewe of Hercules pa- Watch Houma or Thibodaux fun theme. to postgame attack of Hercules, and his wife, rade rolls at 6 p.m. today through parades via live webcam There is a 30 percent chance of Holly Kern. downtown Houma, temperatures at houmatoday.com/ showers Sunday, when several pa- Between a slew of meet- will be the in the mid-60s, National mardigras or dailycomet. rades are scheduled to roll. Chris Singleton ings and gatherings leading Weather Service meteorologist Bob com/mardigras. “We might run into some prob- Staff Writer up to the Hercules parade, Wagner said. As the night draws to lems,” Wagner said. The parent of an Ellender High School boys Kern sat down to discuss his a close, the temperature could drop At 11 a.m. Sunday, the Krewe basketball player involved in a postgame fi ght legacy and career that took to the mid-40s. roll at 5:30 p.m. in Thibodaux. of Hyacinthians’ 17 fl oats will roll with a South Terrebonne High him from a Depression-era “Friday doesn’t seem to be much “Ambrosia Rocks Through the though Houma with a “Viva Las Ve- player said she is upset at the sign painter to the captain of a problem weather-wise,” Wagner Night 2014” is the theme for the gas” theme. The Krewe of Titans will handling of the altercation by of an entertainment enter- said. “It should be fairly comfort- 20-float parade. follow with 19 fl oats. school offi cials. prise responsible for build- able.” Saturday is also a big Carnival day In Larose, the Versailles parade Lateacha Johnson, the ing nearly every fl oat used The good weather will continue in Terrebonne Parish with Bayou starts at noon, and in Thibodaux, mother of Ellender player Jus- in New Orleans’ Carnival into Saturday with sunny skies and Petit Caillou set to roll at noon in Shaka rolls at 1:30 p.m. tin Johnson, said she is still season. temperatures in the 70s. Chauvin. New Orleans is the theme To keep up with where the parades looking for answers as to why Kern’s work and infl uence That’s good news for the Le of the 12 fl oats. are along the route, check out The her son was allegedly attacked Krewe Des T-Cajun Children’s Then at 6:30 p.m., the Krewe of Courier and Daily Comet’s parade by South Terrebonne player Parade in Larose, which rolls at Aquarius will take center stage in trackers at houmatoday.com and Jermaine Washington follow- | See Mardi, 8A | noon. The Krewe of Ambrosia will Houma with 20 fl oats and a magical dailycomet.com. ing Friday’s game, which El- Jermaine lender won 95-45. Washington Washington, 17, was charged with second-degree battery for knocking Justin Johnson, 19, un- Conservation groups to feds: conscious while both teams were doing their Speed up sea turtle analysis | See Fight, 4A | Ellender Janet McConnaughey enforce federal rules requiring turtle High School The Associated Press escape hatches in shrimp nets, which basketball NEW ORLEANS — Four conserva- shrimpers say let much of their catch player tion groups say they’ll sue the National escape as well. State law now bars agen- Justin Marine Fisheries Service because it’s cies from doing so. Johnson taking too long to analyze shrimping’s The letter sent Wednesday began a suffered a lip effects on threatened and endangered 60-day settlement period required be- injury during sea turtles. fore suing under the Endangered Spe- an alleged The groups contend that shrimp nets cies Act. postgame in the Gulf of Mexico kill more than The division of the National Oce- attack by 45,000 sea turtles a year and want the anic and Atmospheric Administration Keith Srakocic/AP File a South agency to bar shrimp trawling there un- Terrebonne Peter Pan, a green sea turtle, is seen July 13, 2011, as he til it completes its analysis. player. swims by at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium in Pittsburgh. They also want to make Louisiana | See Turtles, 4A |

INDEXCORRECTION INSIDE IN BRIEF

CALENDAR ...... 4B HOROSCOPE ...... 4B CLASSIFIED ...... 8B LOTTERY ...... 2A Sunday’s Courier 4A 3A COMICS...... 4B POLICE REPORT . . . 10A contained an error. CROSSWORD ...... 4B SPORTS...... 1B Sharon Alford is the Student of Search DEATHS...... 8A SUDOKU ...... 4B executive director of EDITORIALS...... 9A WEATHER ...... 2A the Houma Area Con- the Year yields meth vention and Visitors plans career arrest of Bureau. in politics Pierre Part man

ROUSES KING CAKES AM
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itio KING CAKE HOTLINE 1-800-688-5998 ORDER ONLINE www.rouses.com 4 A THE COURIER | FRIDAY , FEBRUARY 21 , 2 0 1 4 Lafourche’s High School Student Krewe of Hercules West Krewe of Hercules START Parades will When: 6 p.m. today. begin at Southland Houma Mardi Gras Route: of the Year plans career in politics Mall on Park Avenue West Hou- parade ma. route Royalty: I Last in a three-part series. King Hercu- les XXX Ron Aline Carambat Ward. Staff Writer Grand Mar- Thibodaux High School se- Thibodaux shal: Blaine Kern Sr. nior Kalin Larousse said he High School Hollywood Rd. didn’t always know he wanted to senior Theme: be a politician . “Hercu- Kalin Park Avenue les Sails The winner of Lafourche’s Larousse High School Student of the Parades cross t the Seven received Main Stree Ron Ward Year award has big dreams of Bayou Terrebonne St. Barrow Seas.” Lafourche END following in the footsteps of at Hollywood Road Floats: Parish’s High state Rep. Dee Richard, a Thi- and proceed down 32. bodaux independent, after he School Main Street Members: Men’s krewe of tackles college. Student of more than 700 members. “People say it’s not much of a the Year dream to be a politician, but it is award. Weekend parade schedule mine,” Kalin said. “When I was a little kid, I wanted to be a race TERREBONNE PARADES Sunday: Hyacinthians, 11 T-Cajun Children’s Parade, car driver. But once I got over Today: Hercules, 6 p.m., a.m.; Titans, after Hyacinthi- noon, Larose; Ambrosia, 5:30 that I decided I ought to go for a Abby Tabor/Staff West Houma. ans; both in West Houma. p.m., Thibodaux. real career.” Saturday: Bayou Petit Cail- Sunday: Versailles, noon, That starts with college. lou, noon, Chauvin; Aquarius, LAFOURCHE PARADES Larose; Shaka, 1:30 p.m.; “I’m going to major in political David said. “He’s intelligent, whelmed. 6:30 p.m., West Houma. Saturday: Le Krewe Des Thibodaux. economics at Tulane. It’s going very mature, very caring, and “My mom and dad both cried to be a shock because over here this kind of student only comes actually. My grandma and nan- I have a 4.0 (grade point aver- along once in a lifetime.” ny were both there too, and they age), but when I go to Tulane Kalin has also served as co- brought me a basket of candy I’m going to be just an average chairman of Louisiana’s Tuition after,” he said. Groundbreaking set for complex student,” he said. Task Force Access and Afford- Kalin plans to continue to Kalin’s teachers and peers see ability Committee and was make his parents proud while him as anything but average. on the Governor’s Legislative at Tulane by becoming involved Xerxes Wilson about 37 percent, compared The center will be located Throughout his academic Youth Advisory Council. in the Student Ambassador’s Staff Writer with a national rate of 27 per- across Bowie Road from the career he has been involved At Thibodaux High, he was Program and campus religious Thibodaux Regional Medi- cent, Thibodaux Regional’s Thibodaux Regional Cancer in Student Council, serving as vice president and executive organizations in honor of his cal Center is moving forward CEO Greg Stock said. Center. president and vice president, board member of the Key Club, Catholic beliefs. He said he is with plans to build a $63 mil- The 200,000-square-foot Last summer, the Thibodaux and becoming chairman of parliamentarian of the National also trying to enroll in honors lion wellness center that will wellness center will be an- City Council annexed about 22 the National Association of Honor Society and captain of classes. focus on preventative health chored by medically directed acres along Bowie Road to ac- Student Councils . the varsity tennis team. Then he hopes to change the care with an education and fi t- wellness and fi tness ameni- commodate the center. Student Council Adviser Beth Being named student of the public’s view of politicians. ness focus. ties. This is the latest project in a David expressed her pride in year was a big surprise. “I would like people to realize The hospital will break That center will feature two years-long expansion by Thi- Larousse’s accomplishments “I was a little shocked when I that not all politicians are cor- ground Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. pools, including a therapeu- bodaux Regional. and said she expects more good found out. I saw that big trophy rupt, and I plan on proving that at 602 N. Acadia Road. Comple- tic pool for rehabilitation pa- In 2010, the hospital com- things to come from the ambi- sitting there, but I didn’t know by just being a real person,” he tion is expected by summer tients and a competition pool pleted a fi ve-year, $100 mil- tious senior. that’s what it was for. I didn’t said. 2015. that will be open to local swim lion expansion that included a “He’s an excellent student, see the name on it because it T h e h o s p i t a l ’ s a d m i n i s t r a - teams. medical offi ce building, Heart straight A’s since he started was covered up. But it came as a Staff Writer Aline Carambat can tion said the center’s need is There also will be a state- and Vascular Center, Women’s school. He’s the kind of person shock to me,” Kalin said. be reached at 850-1148 or aline. evident in light of emerging of-the-art imaging center, an Center and upgrades to the that you like to be around,” His family was also over- [email protected]. health care crises such as obe- orthopedic and sports medi- emergency room, cafeteria, sity, heart disease and diabe- cine center, neurosciences kitchens and gift shop. tes. The goal is to prevent such center, cardiac rehabilitation, The wellness center will illnesses through a lifestyle of and physical, occupational and not only benefi t the patients director and other coaches are feel the same way.” fi tness and health education. speech therapy. and families, but the area will always present to provide su- Neal, a longtime Terrebonne Louisiana fares especially An education center will fo- also benefi t from an economic Fight pervision. The only time they Parish basketball coach, de- poorly in these areas, rank- cus on diabetes, nutrition and standpoint, Thibodaux Region- CONTINUED FROM 1A have police on hand is at large clined to comment. ing fourth in the nation for the weight management. al spokeswoman Toni Martinez sporting events such as football Justin Johnson said he doesn’t prevalence of diabetes , has the There will also be a confer- said. game handshakes at the Bourg games . remember everything that hap- second-highest obesity rate in ence center open to health and Thibodaux Regional is a campus, authorities and school Terrebonne Sheriff Jerry Lar- pened after the fi ght, and he is the country and ranks fourth in wellness events as well as com- 185-bed hospital that employs offi cials said. penter confi rmed there were no still trying to fi gure out why he the nation for deaths caused by munity needs. about 1,100 people, including If convicted, Washington offi cers at the game. was attacked. heart disease. The center will employee 100 225 doctors. The hospital sees could face up to fi ve years in “If the school’s policy says that “I didn’t talk back or mention The Houma-Thibodaux people and have an annual pay- about 100,000 people annually prison. He was freed after post- they don’t have to have an offi cer anything to him,” Justin John- region has an obesity rate of roll of about $4 million. on an outpatient basis. ing bond, authorities said. there, they don’t have to have son said. “He got a technical Lateacha Johnson and El- one,” Larpenter said. “It’s up to foul during the game for saying lender school offi cials claimed the school to request an offi cer.” he was going to beat me up after the alleged attack on Justin Ellender High Athletic Direc- the game. I didn’t even see him PLAN YOUR WEEKEND Johnson, a senior football and tor Terry Washington said there coming after the game.” basketball player, was unpro- should’ve been police at the Justin Johnson, who also suf- WITH OUR FREE voked because he didn’t do or game, which he said is usually fered a knee injury while play- say anything to start the fi ght. a common practice at sporting ing in the game, said he is still ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE. He was sent to Terrebonne Gen- events to protect the players, recovering from his injuries. eral Medical Center for treat- coaches and fans. He didn’t play in two regular ment of a lip injury and concus- “For a game of that magni- season games against Vandebilt sion, his mother said. tude with two rival teams, there Catholic and Assumption this Lateacha Johnson said she should have been some security week, and Ellender coach Cor- is upset about South Terre- there,” Terry Washington said. nell Scott said his status is uncer- bonne’s initial reaction to the “We make certain to have se- tain for the upcoming LHSAA fi ght, and she questioned why curity at all times at our home playoffs, which start next week. there were no Terrebonne games. Safety comes fi rst and Justin Johnson, who recently Parish sheriff’s deputies at foremost for the kids.” signed a scholarship to play foot- the game to provide security. Voisin said South Terrebonne ball at Arkansas Baptist Universi- She said she will pursue legal had to report the details of the ty next year, attended South Ter- charges against Washington fi ght to Louisiana High School rebonne before transferring to and South Terrebonne. Athletic Association. Ellender during his junior year. Because the two teams are Contacted Thursday, Kenny Since transferring, Lateacha rivals, Lateacha Johnson said, Henderson, Louisiana High Johnson said there has been ris- 8 she doesn’t understand why the School Athletic Association ing confl icts between her son school didn’t have police offi - commissioner, said the group and his former school. cers at the game. investigated and doesn’t plan on “They’ve been feuding with “If there were police there, my making a ruling since South Ter- Justin ever since he left South child probably wouldn’t have got rebonne handled the situation Terrebonne,” Lateacha John- beat like he got beat,” Lateacha “in an appropriate manner.” son said. “If I would’ve known Friday,The evening March will feature 21, 2014 WWL-TV ~ 6:30 morning pm ~ H-T news co-anchors, Civic Center Johnson said. “South Terre- Justin Johnson’s grandmoth- that South Terrebonne would’ve bonne coaches never came out er, Diane Singleton, said she treated my child the way they Sally-Ann Roberts as our guest speaker and emcee, Eric Paulsen. to check on my child; ... it was saw Washington tackle and did (Friday) night, I would’ve Guests will enjoy a cocktail buffet, live music by The Soul Survivors very unprofessional.” throw punches at her grand- never let him (go) to the game. Washington couldn’t be son’s face. After seeing the ex- It just makes me think this was and a large silent auction display. reached for comment. tent of the injuries, she said an- something South Terrebonne South Terrebonne Principal other Ellender parent called for planned against my child. I’m go- Dane Voisin said he isn’t allowed an ambulance to take the player ing to investigate everything.” ~ Tickets are $50 each or $400 for a table of eight. to comment on the school’s dis- to the hospital. She said the am- Washington said he was disap- ciplinary action against Wash- bulance never arrived. After a pointed about the fi ght, and he ~ Tickets can be purchased in the TGMC Main Gift Shop ington, but he mentioned that 45-minute wait, they drove the hopes it doesn’t happen again. words exchanged between the injured player to the hospital. “It’s unfortunate,” Washing- or by calling (985) 873-4002. two players during and after the Diane Singleton said her ton said. “There is no room game led to the fi ght. grandson’s injuries were so bad in the game or in sports for “It had nothing to do with the that “he didn’t remember any- something like that. Rivals are All proceeds from this event will remain in our local community to two schools,” Voisin said. “It thing or know where he was.” rivals, but at the end of the day, support the fight against cancer. was an incident between two “Justin was knocked out,” you don’t take that and go that students. It was an unfortunate Singleton said. “He hit his head route. I don’t understand it. We situation. I’m disappointed and on the court, and he bled all talk about the rivalry, but we *Tickets are going fast! Get yours today!* upset that it happened, and I over the court. He was covered want to keep it clean. That part hope everyone moves on.” in blood for no reason, and the of it, we’ve got to clean up.” For additional information, please call (985) 873-4616. Voisin said there is no policy South Terrebonne coach (Da- requiring police attendance at vid Neal) never came back out Staff writer Chris Singleton any school function like sport- to check on him. I think that can be reached at 857-2213 or ing events, but he said school was wrong. If that happened to 448-1200 ext. 2213 or chris. administrators, the athletic somebody else’s child, I would [email protected].

going to get done and we need tion Network and the Sea Turtle Presented by: it done soon. And we need the Conservancy joined the letter of Turtles analysis not just to be an analy- intent sent Wednesday to Com- CONTINUED FROM 1A Special thank you to our sponsors: Cardiovascular Institute of the South sis; we need to know what spe- merce Secretary Penny Pritzker Gulf Island Fabrication cifi c steps NOAA is going to take and three NOAA offi cials. Oil States Skagit Smatco doesn’t comment about pend- to make sure that sea turtles are Clint Guidry, president of Peoples Health ing or active litigation, spokes- not getting killed anymore.” the Louisiana Shrimp Associa- Stephanie Hebert Insurance Agency Synergy Bank woman Allison Garrett said in Reports of turtle strandings in- tion, responded by email: “Two The Bayou Catholic an email. She said the analysis creased from fewer than 100 a year words ... ‘NOT GUILTY.’ “ Watkins, Walker & Eroche, APLC is underway. from 2002 through 2009 to about He said shrimpers do all they Whitney Bank “NOAA has known there is a 600 in 2010 and hundreds a year can to protect sea turtles with- Bayou Sign Company problem with the number of sea since. Last year 545 were reported out killing their own business. Deveney Communications Chauvin Brothers turtles stranding and being killed through Aug. 25, according to the In a telephone interview, Dr. Charon Gentile in the Gulf since the spring of NOAA Fisheries website. How- Guidry cited a June 2013 report Houma OB-GYN Clinic Krewe of Aprhrodite 2010,” said Eric Bilsky, an attorney ever, because a closer watch has for the Gulf States Marine Fish- Krewe of Hercules with Oceana, one of the groups in- been kept since the Deepwater eries Commission — which reg- Krewe of Hyacinthians Morgan Stanley Smith Barney volved. “And so, when we are com- Horizon oil spill in 2010, the signif- ulates fi shing in the Gulf — about Premier OBGYN Specialists ing on the spring of 2014, ‘We’re icance of the numbers is unclear. Kemp’s ridley sea turtles, the Rushing Media working on it’ is not enough. The Center for Biological Di- bulk of those found dead in shal- Sam’s Club Trinity Catering, Inc. “We need to know when it’s versity, the Turtle Island Restora- low waters since the 2010 spill.