TCCNN Reporter Randy Pifer
Op Ed
Updated 12/14/15 at 11:27 pm
Today I will forgo the usual fact based news article where I bring you nothing but accurate truth with no slant or bias. The reason for the switch today is the travesty that took place in Taylors, SC tonight. In all my years of covering Church league sports never have I witnessed what unfolded before me this evening. Art Modell moving the Browns to Baltimore, the '72 US Olympic Basketball team's silver medal, Irv Blitzer hiding weights in the front of the bobsled in the '74 games, and Tom Brady's tuck rule fumble are some of the most significant events that come to mind, but these will all now take a back seat to the TCC Fightin' Reformers 30 and over men's basketball league basketball debacle.
With just under 2 minutes to go and TCC trailing by 3, Malcolm Burgess hits a huge 3 to tie the game. This is significant in and of itself because TCC had been playing 5 on 7 all night. Earle Street Baptist must have slipped the 2 referees some bribes before the game because it was the most one-sided game I have ever seen. TCC showed tremendous moxie in the fact they were even in the game. With the game tied at 36, Earle Street missed a shot and their big guy, number 50 shoved Daniel Brown to the ground to get the ball and lay it back in with 2.5 seconds left on the clock. The ref allowed the clock to keep running down to .9 seconds left and decided they would not put any more time back on the clock because Earle Street told them not to. At this time, allow me to say that the guys at Earle Street we complaining and talking all night long. TCC held their composure and showed true class and sportsmanship. If not for the Fruits of the Spirit, I fear that some of the TCC players would have wanted to attack the referees. Here is a look at what I am sure some of the players were thinking about: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BdHArJflXD4
With .9 seconds left on the clock and TCC down by 2, Randy Pifer threw a beautiful pass to Hugh Carson who turned towards the basket and went up for the shot. At this time, he was completely tackled from his left side. The referee blew his whistle and everyone assumed it was for the foul that had just blatantly taken place. "That's the end of the game" the referee said as he waved his hands in the air. Shocked is the only emotion that I could muster. I questioned the referee closest to me and his explanation was "it was the other ref's call to make, I was out of position and couldn't see the play" to which I responded, "you were 2 feet away from me and I saw him get tackled". He shrugged his shoulders and ran to the Earle Street huddle to join in the celebration.
It was most disappointing for the fans. The TCC faithful packed the stands and could be heard lowly talking amongst themselves at dead balls. Attendance was up 300% with the attendance of Tina Smerdon, Aaron Markham and Stephen Rutland. Rutland was heard saying "I don't know how you all kept your composure out there!" Tina Smerdon told me as she left the gym that she feared for her husband, Tim Smerdons, safety after he was knocked ankle over earlobe and called for a foul in the process. Markham just calmly said "just wait 7 years till I'm 30 and we will take them out!"
Donny Mathis was on fire early and scored 10 points, Carson paced the team once again with 15. Johnroy Joseph scored his first 2 points of the season and Pifer had 2 as well. TCC is now on Christmas break for 2 weeks and will have to figure out a way to get over this loss and prepare for the second half of the season. I, for one, won't get over it that easily.
Monday, December 14, 2015
Monday, December 7, 2015
TCC Wins Overtime Thriller
by TCCNN Reporter Randy Pifer
Updated on 12/7/15 at 11:32 PM
The TCC Fightin' Reformers finally got into the win column, but it was not without some serious drama as it took overtime to finally secure that elusive first win. The Reformers jumped out to a quick 12-0 lead led by 5 points by Randy Pifer to start the game, and it looked like smooth sailing for TCC. Edwards Road Baptist Church started to chip away at the lead when TCC went cold and they were able to close the gap to just 4 at halftime, 16-12. Edwards Road was playing a zone defense and leaving TCC shooters open on the perimeter. "We were hitting early, but kinda cooled off at the end of the first half" said Hugh Carson as they walked into the locker rooms at half time. Carson finished with 8 points and hit a few big shots down the stretch.
The second half started out much like the first half ended. Edwards Road continued to shave into the lead. They took what seemed to be an insurmountable lead at 24-20 with just under 3 minutes left in the game. Then it turned into the Donny Mathis show. Mathis drove into the lane and was double teamed but was somehow able to get the shovel pass into the lane to a cutting Pifer who layed the ball in trimming the deficit to 2. Then on the next possession, Mathis, who was being heavily guarded above the three point line, splashed home a bomb from close to half court to take the lead back for TCC. The crowd of no one erupted! Edwards Road had to call a timeout to recompose themselves. Mathis finished with 5 points but the importance of those 5 points can not be overstated.
The teams traded baskets and a few free throws down the stretch and with just over 10 seconds left and the scored tied at 27, Edwards Road had one chance left to end the game in regulation but their last second shot drew nothing and both teams began preparations for overtime. Daniel Brown, obviously exhausted from playing more defense then everyone else on the court combined, asked if the game could end in a tie. Brown set a new TCC record with 8 steals. He finished with 4 points.
Overtime began and both teams were tight, but then, Edwards Road made a huge mistake. They threw a lazy cross court pass that was easily stolen by Pifer who then hit the game winning shot with just over 1 minute remaining. TCC added 4 more points for good measure as Edwards Road was forced to start fouling. The final score was 33-27 in favor of the Fightin' Reformers. Pifer led the team in scoring for the first time this year with 11 points.
Jonathan Chasteen for the second week in a row was having trouble with getting any calls. His superstar status seems to be affecting the referees whistles and they refuse to give him any calls. Malcolm Burgess was heard pleading with the referee to "call it the same on both ends!" Burgess scored 3 points. Tim Smerdon, who was repeatedly shoved to the ground, asked "what does it take to get a foul called" to which the ref replied "no blood no foul". Smerdon was held scoreless.
TCC finishes the first half of their season on Monday night against Earle Street Baptist at 8:30 at Taylor's First Baptist Church. The whole team would love to have at least one supporter at one game this year.
Updated on 12/7/15 at 11:32 PM
The TCC Fightin' Reformers finally got into the win column, but it was not without some serious drama as it took overtime to finally secure that elusive first win. The Reformers jumped out to a quick 12-0 lead led by 5 points by Randy Pifer to start the game, and it looked like smooth sailing for TCC. Edwards Road Baptist Church started to chip away at the lead when TCC went cold and they were able to close the gap to just 4 at halftime, 16-12. Edwards Road was playing a zone defense and leaving TCC shooters open on the perimeter. "We were hitting early, but kinda cooled off at the end of the first half" said Hugh Carson as they walked into the locker rooms at half time. Carson finished with 8 points and hit a few big shots down the stretch.
The second half started out much like the first half ended. Edwards Road continued to shave into the lead. They took what seemed to be an insurmountable lead at 24-20 with just under 3 minutes left in the game. Then it turned into the Donny Mathis show. Mathis drove into the lane and was double teamed but was somehow able to get the shovel pass into the lane to a cutting Pifer who layed the ball in trimming the deficit to 2. Then on the next possession, Mathis, who was being heavily guarded above the three point line, splashed home a bomb from close to half court to take the lead back for TCC. The crowd of no one erupted! Edwards Road had to call a timeout to recompose themselves. Mathis finished with 5 points but the importance of those 5 points can not be overstated.
The teams traded baskets and a few free throws down the stretch and with just over 10 seconds left and the scored tied at 27, Edwards Road had one chance left to end the game in regulation but their last second shot drew nothing and both teams began preparations for overtime. Daniel Brown, obviously exhausted from playing more defense then everyone else on the court combined, asked if the game could end in a tie. Brown set a new TCC record with 8 steals. He finished with 4 points.
Overtime began and both teams were tight, but then, Edwards Road made a huge mistake. They threw a lazy cross court pass that was easily stolen by Pifer who then hit the game winning shot with just over 1 minute remaining. TCC added 4 more points for good measure as Edwards Road was forced to start fouling. The final score was 33-27 in favor of the Fightin' Reformers. Pifer led the team in scoring for the first time this year with 11 points.
Jonathan Chasteen for the second week in a row was having trouble with getting any calls. His superstar status seems to be affecting the referees whistles and they refuse to give him any calls. Malcolm Burgess was heard pleading with the referee to "call it the same on both ends!" Burgess scored 3 points. Tim Smerdon, who was repeatedly shoved to the ground, asked "what does it take to get a foul called" to which the ref replied "no blood no foul". Smerdon was held scoreless.
TCC finishes the first half of their season on Monday night against Earle Street Baptist at 8:30 at Taylor's First Baptist Church. The whole team would love to have at least one supporter at one game this year.
Monday, November 30, 2015
Reformers Drop Third in a Row
By TCCNN Reporter Randy Pifer
Updated 11/30 at 10:56 PM
TCC continued it's slow start with a 69-44 loss to Suber Road Baptist Church. Hugh Carson continued his strong season with 22 points, but another slow start doomed the Reformers. Randy Pifer chipped in 8 points and Tim Smerdon added 7 in his season debut. Daniel Brown, who has been the season MVP so far, struggled with his shot and was only able to finish with 3 points. "There was a lid on that basket tonight" a frustrated Brown said. Donny Mathis, also making his season debut, scored 2. Jonathan Chasteen was aggressive, but was not getting any love from the referee and was only able to muster 2 points. Malcolm Burgess and Sam Ali were held scoreless.
Suber Road jumped out to a 15-2 lead and never looked back. Suber Road was led by a guy named Brandon who scored a league high 34 points and Jim Wetterlund scored 14. TCC played their best game by far but the overall talent level of SRBC was too much for TCC to overcome. Suber Road was without one of their best players, Noah Stratton, or else it could have been even worse. These two teams do play again on January 18. "We will get better and give them a better game next time out" said Carson. Chasteen, who was obviously frustrated with the lack of calls he got from the referees, took the high road and credited Suber Road for a game well played.
TCC looks to snap their three game losing streak on Monday night 12/7 at 8:30 PM at Taylors First Baptist Church. "If we could just get some fan support I think we would play much better" said Burgess. GM Pifer echoed that sentiment when he suggested that TCC needs to step up their community game and come out and support the team.
TCC also released a press release earlier in the day reminding people that the "TCC presents the 2015 Fightin' Reformers Mens Over 30 Basketball League Fan Appreciation Night" will be held on February 8 at 6:30 PM at Taylors First Baptist Church. Please plan now to attend!
Updated 11/30 at 10:56 PM
TCC continued it's slow start with a 69-44 loss to Suber Road Baptist Church. Hugh Carson continued his strong season with 22 points, but another slow start doomed the Reformers. Randy Pifer chipped in 8 points and Tim Smerdon added 7 in his season debut. Daniel Brown, who has been the season MVP so far, struggled with his shot and was only able to finish with 3 points. "There was a lid on that basket tonight" a frustrated Brown said. Donny Mathis, also making his season debut, scored 2. Jonathan Chasteen was aggressive, but was not getting any love from the referee and was only able to muster 2 points. Malcolm Burgess and Sam Ali were held scoreless.
Suber Road jumped out to a 15-2 lead and never looked back. Suber Road was led by a guy named Brandon who scored a league high 34 points and Jim Wetterlund scored 14. TCC played their best game by far but the overall talent level of SRBC was too much for TCC to overcome. Suber Road was without one of their best players, Noah Stratton, or else it could have been even worse. These two teams do play again on January 18. "We will get better and give them a better game next time out" said Carson. Chasteen, who was obviously frustrated with the lack of calls he got from the referees, took the high road and credited Suber Road for a game well played.
TCC looks to snap their three game losing streak on Monday night 12/7 at 8:30 PM at Taylors First Baptist Church. "If we could just get some fan support I think we would play much better" said Burgess. GM Pifer echoed that sentiment when he suggested that TCC needs to step up their community game and come out and support the team.
TCC also released a press release earlier in the day reminding people that the "TCC presents the 2015 Fightin' Reformers Mens Over 30 Basketball League Fan Appreciation Night" will be held on February 8 at 6:30 PM at Taylors First Baptist Church. Please plan now to attend!
Sunday, November 29, 2015
Reformers Fightin' a New Foe, and it is Not on the Court
by TCC Investigative Reporter Randy Pifer
Updated 11/29/15 at 6:15PM
The TCC Fightin' Reformers have started their inaugural season 0-2. There are many excuses they are giving to explain this. Their inability to hit open shots, especially layups, the lack of knowledge on the defensive end to stop the other teams from getting wide open shots, and, quite possibly the most important factor, the absence of key players. Tim Smerdon has been missing due to injury and Jonathan Chasteen has been absent due to family illness. These are both legitimate excuses and wouldn't even draw so much as an eyebrow raise from the spectating public. But then we are left with the curious case of Donny Mathis. Mathis has not been present at either of the first two games. He was projected as a starter in the preseason and was being counted on to be the sharpshooting deep threat necessary to stretch the floor. This would allow Hugh Carson room to get his shots off in the middle of the floor. As you can imagine this has thrown all kinds of monkey wrenches into the plan and has TCC's offense sputtering.
As the TCCNN began to dig deeper into this matter a scary truth reared its ugly head. There is a traitor in our midst. The entire 2015-16 TCC Men's 30 and Over Basketball team has been put on alert. More specifically, an AMBER Alert. Amber Mathis has schemed and connived her way into the middle of this team and started to Yoko Ono them one by one. Cleverly she started with her husband, but this reporter fears she won't stop there! It came to the attention of the news room that the excuse that Mathis gave for missing last game was "dinner with his wife for his birthday". Upon further investigating it was learned that his birthday was not until the next day!
This is, understandably, upsetting to say the least. Team GM Randy Pifer could not be reached for comment and calls to his office were not returned immediately. Jonathan Chasteen did remark on Sunday morning that he was "aware of what she [was] doing" and even went so far as to suggest that she may be behind Tim Smerdon's injury as well. Smerdon only shrugged his shoulders as he limped by press row when he was asked to comment. Carson vowed to bring the team back together and that we "would see an entirely different outcome on Monday night".
TCC continues their season Monday Night at 8:30 PM against Suber Road Baptist Church. The game will be played at Taylors First Baptist Church, Court #1. The Reformers are hoping for some fan support as they try to break out of their slump and break the AMBER Curse.
Updated 11/29/15 at 6:15PM
The TCC Fightin' Reformers have started their inaugural season 0-2. There are many excuses they are giving to explain this. Their inability to hit open shots, especially layups, the lack of knowledge on the defensive end to stop the other teams from getting wide open shots, and, quite possibly the most important factor, the absence of key players. Tim Smerdon has been missing due to injury and Jonathan Chasteen has been absent due to family illness. These are both legitimate excuses and wouldn't even draw so much as an eyebrow raise from the spectating public. But then we are left with the curious case of Donny Mathis. Mathis has not been present at either of the first two games. He was projected as a starter in the preseason and was being counted on to be the sharpshooting deep threat necessary to stretch the floor. This would allow Hugh Carson room to get his shots off in the middle of the floor. As you can imagine this has thrown all kinds of monkey wrenches into the plan and has TCC's offense sputtering.
As the TCCNN began to dig deeper into this matter a scary truth reared its ugly head. There is a traitor in our midst. The entire 2015-16 TCC Men's 30 and Over Basketball team has been put on alert. More specifically, an AMBER Alert. Amber Mathis has schemed and connived her way into the middle of this team and started to Yoko Ono them one by one. Cleverly she started with her husband, but this reporter fears she won't stop there! It came to the attention of the news room that the excuse that Mathis gave for missing last game was "dinner with his wife for his birthday". Upon further investigating it was learned that his birthday was not until the next day!
This is, understandably, upsetting to say the least. Team GM Randy Pifer could not be reached for comment and calls to his office were not returned immediately. Jonathan Chasteen did remark on Sunday morning that he was "aware of what she [was] doing" and even went so far as to suggest that she may be behind Tim Smerdon's injury as well. Smerdon only shrugged his shoulders as he limped by press row when he was asked to comment. Carson vowed to bring the team back together and that we "would see an entirely different outcome on Monday night".
TCC continues their season Monday Night at 8:30 PM against Suber Road Baptist Church. The game will be played at Taylors First Baptist Church, Court #1. The Reformers are hoping for some fan support as they try to break out of their slump and break the AMBER Curse.
Monday, November 23, 2015
Reformers Drop Second Game in a Row
by TCCNN Reporter Randy Pifer
Updated at 10:39 PM on 11/23
TCC fell behind early and despite a strong second half dropped a hard fought 39-31 decision to Fairview Baptist. A steal and coast to coast layup by Daniel Brown cut the lead to one with just under five minutes left in the game, but a three pointer by Fairview on the next possession pushed it to four and the Reformers never got back inside a four point deficit. Hugh Carson rebounded from his forgettable debut last week to lead the team with twenty points. Brown chipped in six, Malcolm Burgess hit a big three in the second half and Sam Ali contributed four. Randy Pifer, Brian Henderson and Johnroy Joseph were held scoreless.
TCC was without two of it's starters. Jonathan Chasteen was away from the team due to a family illness and Donny "The Doctor" Mathis was sitting his second straight game due to suspension. Mathis was told he would have to sit one more game for his disrespectful press conference in which he called out the coaching staff for their play calling and said he "deserved more than twelve shots a game".
Some good news did happen to land in Reformer camp today when injured Tim Smerdon was seen on the bench during the game. After the game he was being interviewed by the TCCNN and he dropped some hints that his rehab is going much better than the doctors thought and there is a chance he could be suiting up next week! This is the breath of fresh air that TCC desperately needed. With the entire roster in tact there is no question they will be much more dangerous and will start to turn around this slow start.
The Fan Appreciation night is scheduled for February 8 at 6:30 PM at Taylors First Baptist Church on court #2. TCC will be taking on Berea First Baptist Church. Make plans now too attend. Fans are encouraged to make signs, bring noise makers, and cheer as loudly as possible. Make sure you are there in time to receive your collectible game day program.
Updated at 10:39 PM on 11/23
TCC fell behind early and despite a strong second half dropped a hard fought 39-31 decision to Fairview Baptist. A steal and coast to coast layup by Daniel Brown cut the lead to one with just under five minutes left in the game, but a three pointer by Fairview on the next possession pushed it to four and the Reformers never got back inside a four point deficit. Hugh Carson rebounded from his forgettable debut last week to lead the team with twenty points. Brown chipped in six, Malcolm Burgess hit a big three in the second half and Sam Ali contributed four. Randy Pifer, Brian Henderson and Johnroy Joseph were held scoreless.
TCC was without two of it's starters. Jonathan Chasteen was away from the team due to a family illness and Donny "The Doctor" Mathis was sitting his second straight game due to suspension. Mathis was told he would have to sit one more game for his disrespectful press conference in which he called out the coaching staff for their play calling and said he "deserved more than twelve shots a game".
Some good news did happen to land in Reformer camp today when injured Tim Smerdon was seen on the bench during the game. After the game he was being interviewed by the TCCNN and he dropped some hints that his rehab is going much better than the doctors thought and there is a chance he could be suiting up next week! This is the breath of fresh air that TCC desperately needed. With the entire roster in tact there is no question they will be much more dangerous and will start to turn around this slow start.
The Fan Appreciation night is scheduled for February 8 at 6:30 PM at Taylors First Baptist Church on court #2. TCC will be taking on Berea First Baptist Church. Make plans now too attend. Fans are encouraged to make signs, bring noise makers, and cheer as loudly as possible. Make sure you are there in time to receive your collectible game day program.
Monday, November 16, 2015
Rough Start to 2015-16 Season for The Reformers
TCCNN Reporter Randy Pifer
Updated 11:34pm 11/16/15
The 2015-16 season got off to a rocky start Monday night as TCC dropped a sloppy game to The Taylors First Baptist Big Orange. Star forward Hugh Carson struggled with his shot and was only able to muster 4 points. Daniel Brown was the lone offensive bright spot as his hustle and gritty determination was able to keep his team in the game for most of the night. He set a TCC record for steals and hard fouls drawn and was making his living at the free throw line for most of the night. He finished with a team high 9 points. Jonathan Chasteen was able to hits a few shots as well and chipped in 8 points. Sam Ali and Randy Pifer each scored 2 points apiece to round out the scoring. The final score was 34-25.
"These sixteen minute halves go by very quickly! You can't start off struggling and still have a shot to win the game" said guard Malcolm Burgess. TCC seemed to be suffering from early season jitters and will most assuredly rebound in a big way against their bitter rival, Fairview Baptist. The rivalry with Fairview started during the summer when Fairview's starting point guard Stephen Donovan had joined The Fightin' Reformers only to switch to Fairview at the last moment. "He knows what he did was unethical and he will pay on the court next Monday night" said Pifer. Pifer played for Fairview last season.
TCC was without starting guard Donny Mathis who was serving a one game suspension for a violation of team rules. Mathis is expected to return to the team this week and coach Jonathan Chasteen has said he will start against Fairview next Monday night. When Mathis was contacted for a statement he only offered the following; "I am sorry for what I did and will take every recourse mandated by the coaching staff to rectify the situation." (There is a rumor that his violation was missing a mandatory practice, but this reporters source is unreliable at best.)
Forward Brian Henderson, who will play a big role as an enforcer this season, was quoted as saying "they are gonna have to earn their points against me". There was an almost maniacal look in his eyes as he grinned creepily. Johnroy Joseph played some solid minutes in relief and should be proud of his all out effort on the court. "He has showed some marked improvement over the course of preseason training and it showed tonight" said Ali.
TCC's next game is at 8:30 at Taylor's First Baptist Church Court #1 vs. Fairview Baptist Church. Fans are encouraged to attend and cheer on their Fightin' Reformers against their bitter crosstown rival.
Updated 11:34pm 11/16/15
The 2015-16 season got off to a rocky start Monday night as TCC dropped a sloppy game to The Taylors First Baptist Big Orange. Star forward Hugh Carson struggled with his shot and was only able to muster 4 points. Daniel Brown was the lone offensive bright spot as his hustle and gritty determination was able to keep his team in the game for most of the night. He set a TCC record for steals and hard fouls drawn and was making his living at the free throw line for most of the night. He finished with a team high 9 points. Jonathan Chasteen was able to hits a few shots as well and chipped in 8 points. Sam Ali and Randy Pifer each scored 2 points apiece to round out the scoring. The final score was 34-25.
"These sixteen minute halves go by very quickly! You can't start off struggling and still have a shot to win the game" said guard Malcolm Burgess. TCC seemed to be suffering from early season jitters and will most assuredly rebound in a big way against their bitter rival, Fairview Baptist. The rivalry with Fairview started during the summer when Fairview's starting point guard Stephen Donovan had joined The Fightin' Reformers only to switch to Fairview at the last moment. "He knows what he did was unethical and he will pay on the court next Monday night" said Pifer. Pifer played for Fairview last season.
TCC was without starting guard Donny Mathis who was serving a one game suspension for a violation of team rules. Mathis is expected to return to the team this week and coach Jonathan Chasteen has said he will start against Fairview next Monday night. When Mathis was contacted for a statement he only offered the following; "I am sorry for what I did and will take every recourse mandated by the coaching staff to rectify the situation." (There is a rumor that his violation was missing a mandatory practice, but this reporters source is unreliable at best.)
Forward Brian Henderson, who will play a big role as an enforcer this season, was quoted as saying "they are gonna have to earn their points against me". There was an almost maniacal look in his eyes as he grinned creepily. Johnroy Joseph played some solid minutes in relief and should be proud of his all out effort on the court. "He has showed some marked improvement over the course of preseason training and it showed tonight" said Ali.
TCC's next game is at 8:30 at Taylor's First Baptist Church Court #1 vs. Fairview Baptist Church. Fans are encouraged to attend and cheer on their Fightin' Reformers against their bitter crosstown rival.
Thursday, November 12, 2015
2015-16 TCC Fightin' Reformers Basketball Season Preview
TCCNN Reporter Randy Pifer
Updated 9:25 PM 11/12/15
The TCC Fightin' Reformers are about to take the court for the first time. The inaugural basketball season will begin on 11/16 on Monday night against Taylor's First Baptist Church. TCC will travel to Taylors, SC to play in the main event of the evening with the tip-off scheduled for 8:30 pm. Team captain Hugh Carson addressed the media Monday night after practice. "We are eager to get out there and see how we stack up against the best 30 and over teams in the league" he said. Guard Donny Mathis, who most recently played for the now defunct CGBC Fightin' Reformers, said he was "tired of playing against each other" and "looking forward to a new challenge"
TCC was delivered a significant blow before the season even began when the news of potential starting center Tim Smerdon's injury spread throughout the locker room. Smerdon suffered a season ending knee injury and was quoted as saying "I'd rather feel good and be able to walk then play in a 30 and over Church basketball league." Guard Sam Ali was clearly devastated by the news and bemoaned the thought by saying "we have no inside presence now!" This means the only healthy inside players available on the roster are Carson, oft-injured Brian Henderson and European style big man Randy Pifer. TCC may struggle with bigger more physical teams if they can't solve this problem.
One area the team is loaded is in the backcourt. Probable starters are the sharpshooting Mathis, the speedy and athletic Daniel Brown and the a-typical game manager Jonathan Chasteen. Ali, Malcolm Burgess, Johnroy Joseph and possibly Matt Rogers will provide the much needed respite for these aging veterans.
The TCCNN encourages all the fans to make their way to TFBC on Monday evening to watch some entertaining basketball. If you are interested in volunteering to be the team statistician or team videographer please contact the GM Randy Pifer as soon as possible! The annual Fan Appreciation Night is being planned and will be announced in the next couple of days. Please stay tuned to the TCCNN for developing stories and news.
Updated 9:25 PM 11/12/15
The TCC Fightin' Reformers are about to take the court for the first time. The inaugural basketball season will begin on 11/16 on Monday night against Taylor's First Baptist Church. TCC will travel to Taylors, SC to play in the main event of the evening with the tip-off scheduled for 8:30 pm. Team captain Hugh Carson addressed the media Monday night after practice. "We are eager to get out there and see how we stack up against the best 30 and over teams in the league" he said. Guard Donny Mathis, who most recently played for the now defunct CGBC Fightin' Reformers, said he was "tired of playing against each other" and "looking forward to a new challenge"
TCC was delivered a significant blow before the season even began when the news of potential starting center Tim Smerdon's injury spread throughout the locker room. Smerdon suffered a season ending knee injury and was quoted as saying "I'd rather feel good and be able to walk then play in a 30 and over Church basketball league." Guard Sam Ali was clearly devastated by the news and bemoaned the thought by saying "we have no inside presence now!" This means the only healthy inside players available on the roster are Carson, oft-injured Brian Henderson and European style big man Randy Pifer. TCC may struggle with bigger more physical teams if they can't solve this problem.
One area the team is loaded is in the backcourt. Probable starters are the sharpshooting Mathis, the speedy and athletic Daniel Brown and the a-typical game manager Jonathan Chasteen. Ali, Malcolm Burgess, Johnroy Joseph and possibly Matt Rogers will provide the much needed respite for these aging veterans.
The TCCNN encourages all the fans to make their way to TFBC on Monday evening to watch some entertaining basketball. If you are interested in volunteering to be the team statistician or team videographer please contact the GM Randy Pifer as soon as possible! The annual Fan Appreciation Night is being planned and will be announced in the next couple of days. Please stay tuned to the TCCNN for developing stories and news.
Monday, November 9, 2015
TCC Fightin' Reformers Inaugural Basketball Schedule Released!
| Schedule | |||||
| Week | Dates | Time.... | Location | Home | Away |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 11-16 | 8:30 PM | TAYLORS FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH COURT # 2 | TAYLORS "ORANGE" | CHURCH at CHERRYDALE |
| 2 | 11-23 | 8:30 PM | TAYLORS FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH COURT #1 | CHURCH at CHERRYDALE | FAIRVIEW |
| 3 | 11-30 | 8:30 PM | TAYLORS FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH COURT #1 | SUBER ROAD | CHURCH at CHERRYDALE |
| 4 | 12-7 | 8:30 PM | TAYLORS FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH COURT # 2 | CHURCH at CHERRYDALE | EDWARDS ROAD |
| 5 | 12-14 | 8:30 PM | TAYLORS FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH COURT # 2 | EARLE STREET | CHURCH at CHERRYDALE |
| CHRISTMAS/NEW YEARS BREAK | |||||
| 6 | 1-4 | 8:30 PM | TAYLORS FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH COURT #1 | CHURCH at CHERRYDALE | BEREA |
| 7 | 1-11 | CHURCH at CHERRYDALE | BYE WEEK | ||
| 8 | 1-18 | 8:30 PM | TAYLORS FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH COURT # 2 | CHURCH at CHERRYDALE | SUBER ROAD |
| 9 | 1-25 | 8:30 PM | TAYLORS FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH COURT # 2 | EDWARDS ROAD | CHURCH at CHERRYDALE |
| 10 | 2-1 | 8:30 PM | EARLE STREET BAPTIST CHURCH | CHURCH at CHERRYDALE | EARLE STREET |
| 11 | 2-8 | 6:30 PM | TAYLORS FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH COURT # 2 | BEREA | CHURCH at CHERRYDALE |
Sunday, September 6, 2015
Available Positions for the 2015-16 Reformers
by Randy Pifer
You are probably wondering, "How can I be apart of the Reformers upcoming season?" There are still 1-2 spots available for 30-and-over men. If you are interested in playing, please see Hugh Carson or Randy Pifer. The deadline to sign up will be October 1st. Once the roster is finalized the cost per player will be announced. If you want a jersey, please let Randy Pifer know. If we order more than 6 we get a significant discount. They will be around 25 dollars each. These are nice, reversible basketball jerseys. If you don't want to purchase one, you can use the softball jerseys or a navy blue shirt but it will have to have a number. We can always put tape on a navy t-shirt if you don't have a numbered shirt.
The Reformers are also in search of a statistician. If you would be willing to come to our games and keep stats for us it would be much appreciated. If you have never done that, but are still interested you can be taught. We also need a videographer. If you would be willing to come to the games and record them please let Randy Pifer know. For both of these jobs please know, games will be held at on Monday nights. Games could be at 6:30, 7:30 or 8:30 and most of the games are played in the Greer/Taylors area. These jobs would be perfect for a wife of a current team member.
You are probably wondering, "How can I be apart of the Reformers upcoming season?" There are still 1-2 spots available for 30-and-over men. If you are interested in playing, please see Hugh Carson or Randy Pifer. The deadline to sign up will be October 1st. Once the roster is finalized the cost per player will be announced. If you want a jersey, please let Randy Pifer know. If we order more than 6 we get a significant discount. They will be around 25 dollars each. These are nice, reversible basketball jerseys. If you don't want to purchase one, you can use the softball jerseys or a navy blue shirt but it will have to have a number. We can always put tape on a navy t-shirt if you don't have a numbered shirt.
The Reformers are also in search of a statistician. If you would be willing to come to our games and keep stats for us it would be much appreciated. If you have never done that, but are still interested you can be taught. We also need a videographer. If you would be willing to come to the games and record them please let Randy Pifer know. For both of these jobs please know, games will be held at on Monday nights. Games could be at 6:30, 7:30 or 8:30 and most of the games are played in the Greer/Taylors area. These jobs would be perfect for a wife of a current team member.
Friday, September 4, 2015
TCC Men's Basketball 2015-16 Preview
Written by Randy Pifer
Updated 9/6/15 at 8:36 AM
The 2015-16 TCC Fightin' Reformers basketball season is fast approaching. The league is for 30 and over men and will be played from November through January. Here is a brief glance at this years roster. There are still available spots open for unsigned free agents. If you want to join the team or have questions, please contact Hugh Carson or Randy Pifer.
The central focus of the team will be Hugh Carson. His ability to get his own shot will be vital to the success of this years team. Donny Mathis has proven to be a streaky shooter and is always looking for his shot. He has often been described at the JR Smith of the Reformers. Brian Henderson likes to get down low and draw contact. It just remains to be seen if he can stay healthy. Jonathan Chasteen is a defensive stalwart. He likes to get in the heads of his opponents with gritty play and all out hustle. Matt Rogers is a natural born leader and will lead the team in more ways then just on the court. Sam Ali and Malcolm Burgess are unknown commodities at this point. Once preseason camp gets in full swing we will have more to report on the newest Reformers. Randy Pifer will play center for the Reformers, and despite his size advantage routinely likes to fade away even against shorter defenders and will often miss wide open layups.
Make plans now to join the Reformers on Monday nights this winter. The annual Fan Appreciation Night will be announced once the schedule has been released.
Updated 9/6/15 at 8:36 AM
The 2015-16 TCC Fightin' Reformers basketball season is fast approaching. The league is for 30 and over men and will be played from November through January. Here is a brief glance at this years roster. There are still available spots open for unsigned free agents. If you want to join the team or have questions, please contact Hugh Carson or Randy Pifer.
The central focus of the team will be Hugh Carson. His ability to get his own shot will be vital to the success of this years team. Donny Mathis has proven to be a streaky shooter and is always looking for his shot. He has often been described at the JR Smith of the Reformers. Brian Henderson likes to get down low and draw contact. It just remains to be seen if he can stay healthy. Jonathan Chasteen is a defensive stalwart. He likes to get in the heads of his opponents with gritty play and all out hustle. Matt Rogers is a natural born leader and will lead the team in more ways then just on the court. Sam Ali and Malcolm Burgess are unknown commodities at this point. Once preseason camp gets in full swing we will have more to report on the newest Reformers. Randy Pifer will play center for the Reformers, and despite his size advantage routinely likes to fade away even against shorter defenders and will often miss wide open layups.
Make plans now to join the Reformers on Monday nights this winter. The annual Fan Appreciation Night will be announced once the schedule has been released.
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Guard/Forward - Sam Ali
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| Forward - Hugh Carson |
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| Guard/Forward - Jonathan Chasteen |
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| Forward - Brian Henderson |
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| Guard - Donny Mathis |
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| Forward/Center - Randy Pifer |
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| Guard - Matt Rogers |
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