## Moroccan Football Federation Implements Sweeping Reforms

**New Rules Aim to Enhance Performance Ahead of Major Events**

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) announced sweeping reforms on Wednesday, August 6, following an executive board meeting chaired by President Fouzi Lekjaa. The meeting focused on Morocco's recent success in hosting continental competitions and outlined preparations for upcoming events, including the 2025 U-17 Women’s World Cup and the 2030 men's FIFA World Cup bid.

**Disciplinary Action & Regulatory Changes**


The reforms include stricter disciplinary rules and regulations aimed at promoting fair play and accountability within the Moroccan football landscape.  Details of these changes were not immediately disclosed.

**Focus on Youth Development & Future Success**

"The FRMF is committed to nurturing young talent and building a strong foundation for the future," said President Lekjaa during the meeting. The federation’s focus on youth development programs will be instrumental in preparing for the 2025 U-17 Women's World Cup bid and beyond. 


## Moroccan Football Federation Implements Sweeping Reforms

**New Rules Aim to Enhance Performance Ahead of Major Events**

The Royal Moroccan Football Federat

Moroccan football federation enacts new rules ahead of 2025,

Moroccan football federation enacts new rules ahead of 2025, 2030 tournaments

## Shelton Stuns De Minaur, Eyes Fritz in Cincinnati Showdown

**American Rallies to Semifinal After Crushing Win Streak**

Ben Shelton reached his first Masters 1000 semifinal Tuesday, dismantling Alex de Minaur 6-3, 6-4. The victory marked Shelton's 101st ATP Tour win and came after a grueling three-set battle against Flavio Cobolli in the previous round.  Shelton dominated on serve, firing 11 aces and eight forehand winners while de Minaur struggled with 28 unforced errors, ending his seven-game winning streak.

"De Minaur is known as one of the best returners out there," Shelton said after the match. "If there's a game designed to slow me down, it's his. But today, I felt in control."

The American secured the crucial break battle 2-1, showcasing his attacking prowess against the typically solid de Minaur.  Shelton will now face World No. 4 Taylor Fritz, the only American ranked higher than him. The semifinal showdown follows a match between Alexander Zverev and Karen Khachanov, scheduled for not before 7 p.m. ET.

**Ranking Climb Within Reach: Can Shelton Crack the Top 5?**

Shelton's victory against de Minaur solidifies his grip on the No. 7 spot in the ATP rankings. He currently sits at 3,720 points with a chance to add another 250 with a win over Fritz Wednesday night. A tournament win would propel him to 4,320 points, enough to surpass legend Novak Djokovic and claim the No. 6 spot.

While the top three of Jack Draper (4,650), Fritz (5,525), and Alexander Zverev (6,380) are seemingly out of reach for now, Shelton is starting to plot his ascent towards the elite.  Beating both Fritz and Zverev in this tournament would be a significant step in that direction.


**A Look Ahead: Toronto & US Open Opportunities**

The Cincinnati Masters begins Thursday, but Shelton enjoys a first-round bye, allowing him extra rest between back-to-back 1,000-point Majors. He reached the quarterfinals in Cincinnati last year before losing to Zverev in three sets.

Shelton will skip the Winston-Salem 250, ensuring at least a week off before the US Open, where he's expected to be a home-court favorite as one of America's top contenders. The tournament kicks off on August 24th and runs through September 7th.




## Shelton Stuns De Minaur, Eyes Fritz in Cincinnati Showdown

**American Rallies to Semifinal After Crushing Win Streak**

Ben Shelton reached his first Master

Ben Shelton reaches first career Masters 1000 semifinals at 

Ben Shelton reaches first career Masters 1000 semifinals at National Bank Open

##  Allen Returns to Bolt Up: Wide Receiver Rejoins Chargers After Chicago Stint


Keenan Allen is back in Los Angeles. The Chargers announced the return of their veteran wide receiver after a single season with the Chicago Bears. 

**A Dip in Production, But Still a Force**


While Allen's numbers dipped from his prolific 2023 campaign with the Chargers, where he hauled in 108 receptions for 1,243 yards and seven touchdowns, he still proved to be a threat in Chicago.  He recorded 70 catches for 744 yards and seven touchdowns despite facing challenges with the Bears' struggling offense and rookie quarterback Caleb Williams at the helm.

**Red Zone Dominance Continues**


Allen’s performance wasn't just about numbers; he remained a clutch player, leading the Bears in touchdowns and scoring all seven of them in the red zone.  He finished as the team’s second-leading receiver. 


"All of his touchdowns came in the red zone," an unnamed source said. 


##  Allen Returns to Bolt Up: Wide Receiver Rejoins Chargers After Chicago Stint


Keenan Allen is back in Los Angeles. The Chargers announced the return of the

Highlights of Chargers WR Keenan Allen&#39;s season with the

Highlights of Chargers WR Keenan Allen&#39;s season with the Bears in 2024

## Caruso Crowns Himself King of Defense 

The Oklahoma City Thunder dominated the NBA season, shattering records and clinching their first-ever championship. Their success wasn’t just about offense; their suffocating defense was a key factor in their journey to the top. And leading that charge? Alex Caruso.


**Caruso Shines on the Biggest Stage**

Known for his relentless energy and commitment to defense, Caruso thrived in the playoffs. While he saw limited minutes during the regular season due to load management, he brought an all-out effort when it mattered most.  

ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins named Caruso the NBA’s best defensive player, a claim that surprised some but not those who witnessed his dominant playoff run. “The eye test doesn't lie," Perkins said. "What I saw what he did in the postseason, in a crucial Game 7, guarding Jokic... And locking him up.”


**“Caruso Won OKC The Championship”**

Perkins went on to explain how Caruso’s performance, alongside stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren, was instrumental in their championship victory. "When you talk about a defensive specialist that can go out there and cause havoc in the game with four or five steals... he was the key reason outside of SGA and J-Dub and Chet Holmgren, when you talk about franchise guys, on why OKC is set to hang a banner this upcoming season.”

While some may find Perkins’ ranking surprising, Caruso's impact on the Thunder’s success is undeniable. His tenacity and ability to disrupt opposing offenses earned him praise from all corners of the league. 


 **A Defensive Legacy**

Caruso’s performance against Nikola Jokic in a pivotal Game 7 was a highlight reel worthy of a champion. He expertly navigated the size disadvantage, showcasing his intelligence and defensive prowess.  This championship victory solidifies Caruso as one of the greatest defenders of his era, a claim backed by advanced metrics and his two NBA championships.

With multiple Thunder players deserving recognition for their defensive abilities, Caruso’s ranking is a testament to his impact on the team's success story. 


## Caruso Crowns Himself King of Defense 

The Oklahoma City Thunder dominated the NBA season, shattering records and clinching their first-ever championship. T

ESPN analyst boldly calls Alex Caruso the NBA&#39;s best def

ESPN analyst boldly calls Alex Caruso the NBA&#39;s best defensive player

## Mississippi's High School Football Phenoms: Cast Your Vote!

Who reigns supreme in the gridiron? Mississippi high school fans have their say as they vote for the top football athlete entering the 2025 season.

**The Contenders:**

* **Braylen Bedford, Vardaman**: A freshman force to be reckoned with, Bedford racked up 1,260 all-purpose yards and a staggering 15 touchdowns last year. His defensive prowess added another layer, as he amassed 67 tackles. Powerhouse programs like Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Texas A&M, and Tennessee are already vying for his talent.

* **Zialis Blackmon, Biggersville**: This three-star recruit according to 247Sports dominated the field with an impressive 2,137 all-purpose yards and a jaw-dropping 29 total touchdowns in his previous season.

* **Quentin Carter, Charleston**:  A multi-faceted threat, Carter contributed 1,486 all-purpose yards and 15 touchdowns while also leading the defense with 28 tackles and two interceptions.

* **Javarious Griffin Jr., Cleveland Central**: This dynamic athlete showcased his skills on both sides of the ball, recording 756 all-purpose yards, including seven receiving touchdowns and five rushing TDs.  His talents have caught the attention of Ole Miss, Tulane, Vanderbilt, and Mississippi State among others.

* **Gavin Howard, Holmes County Central**: This three-star recruit made a significant impact with nine total touchdowns and an impressive 1,599 all-purpose yards. His special teams prowess added another dimension, as he recorded 24 total returns.

* **Jeremiah Harkins, New Hope**: Committed to Middle Tennessee State, this three-star recruit and the No. 64 player in the state helped lead New Hope to an 8-3 record last season.

* **Ian Harlan, Ocean Springs**: Harlan showcased his versatility with 245 all-purpose yards, eight tackles, and three total touchdowns.


**...and More!**

The competition continues with a host of talented athletes vying for the top spot:  Jermaine Jackson, O'Mari Johnson, DJ McNair, Ja'Kayden Moore, Liam Schwartz, Khylan Sinegal, Jaiden Taylor, Justin Verner, Jordan Virgess, Landon Thompson, Xzavier Webber, and Drew Winfun.

**Cast Your Vote:**


[Poll embedded here]



_Voting closes at noon on Sunday.  Vote once per hour per device._ 


## Mississippi's High School Football Phenoms: Cast Your Vote!

Who reigns supreme in the gridiron? Mississippi high school fans have their say as they vote for

Vote for top Mississippi high school football athlete for up

Vote for top Mississippi high school football athlete for upcoming 2025 MHSAA, MAIS season

##  Freeman Rocks 'The Shirt,' Fans Rejoice

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman is known for connecting with fans, and his latest move has them buzzing. During Wednesday's practice, the 39-year-old coach sported this year's version of "The Shirt," a coveted piece of Under Armour gear worn by Freeman that often sparks a frenzy among supporters.

"One of the fan’s biggest complaints over his tenure has been the inability to purchase some of the Under Armour gear that Freeman wears,"  a recent social media post observed. 

This year, fans won't have to wait for limited releases.  The accessibility of "The Shirt" this time around adds another layer to Freeman's popularity, showcasing his understanding of Notre Dame's unique culture.


Loyal to Notre Dame ☘️#GoIrish☘️ pic.twitter.com/ywH4yIKVxg
— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) August 6, 2025  

Freeman, though not a former Irish player himself, has quickly become a beloved figure within the program.




##  Freeman Rocks 'The Shirt,' Fans Rejoice

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman is known for connecting with fans, and his latest move has them buzzing. Durin

See Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman wearing ‘The Shirt’

See Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman wearing ‘The Shirt’ during Wednesday’s practice

##  Activists Rally Behind Accused Football Star Achraf Hakimi 

**Online Petition Denounces "Smear Campaign" Against PSG Defender**

A collective of French activists has launched an online petition titled “United for Achraf Hakimi” in support of the Moroccan footballer facing rape charges stemming from a 2023 incident in Nanterre. The petition, hosted on MesOpinions.com, alleges that Hakimi is the target of a "coordinated smear campaign."  The Paris Saint-Germain defender remains eligible to play pending the outcome of legal proceedings.


"This campaign seeks to tarnish his reputation without due process," organizers state on the platform.  Hakimi has denied the accusations. 


##  Activists Rally Behind Accused Football Star Achraf Hakimi 

**Online Petition Denounces "Smear Campaign" Against PSG Defender**

A collective of French act

French activists launch petition in support of Achraf Hakimi

French activists launch petition in support of Achraf Hakimi amid rape allegations

## Moroccan Athlete Conquers the "World's Toughest Triathlon"

**Eidfjord, Norway:** Mohamed El Khalil Binebine, a Moroccan triathlete, defied grueling conditions and a challenging course to complete the 22nd edition of the Zalaris Norseman Xtreme Triathlon on Saturday.  

### A Test of Endurance and Willpower

Established in 2003, the Norseman Xtreme Triathlon is renowned for its demanding format and unpredictable weather. This long-distance event, now part of the XTRI World Championship, pushes athletes to their limits with a swim across a glacial lake, followed by a challenging bike ride through rugged mountains, culminating in a final run up a steep hill to the finish line. 

Binebine joined over [Number] participants who braved the demanding course in this year's edition.  The race continues to attract elite athletes from around the globe seeking to conquer one of the world’s toughest triathlons.




## Moroccan Athlete Conquers the "World's Toughest Triathlon"

**Eidfjord, Norway:** Mohamed El Khalil Binebine, a Moroccan triathlete, defied grueling conditio

Morocco&#039;s Mohamed El Khalil Binebine among 2025 Norsema

Morocco&#039;s Mohamed El Khalil Binebine among 2025 Norseman Xtreme Triathlon Finishers

## Packers Cornerback Hobbs Undergoes Minor Knee Surgery

**Green Bay Faces Brief Setback as Starter Prepares for Season Opener**

With just one month until the NFL regular season kicks off, the Green Bay Packers' cornerback room has experienced a minor setback. Nate Hobbs underwent knee surgery described by sources as "minor," effectively sidelining him for approximately three weeks. 

Despite this, Hobbs is expected to be ready in time for the Packers' season opener against the defending NFC North champion Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field.  The surgery is believed to be preventative, addressing a potential issue that could have been managed throughout the season. The Packers opted for a cautious approach, prioritizing Hobbs' long-term health over immediate playing time.

Hobbs missed Green Bay's last two practices, including Family Night, where general manager Brian Gutekunst shed light on the severity of the injury. "We won’t see him tonight, he’s gonna be working through some things over the next couple of weeks," Gutekunst stated at the annual open practice.

This likely means Hobbs will sit out all preseason games. Although not a guaranteed starter, his absence could impact valuable joint practices with the Colts and Seahawks.


**Packers Bring Back Ballentine to Address Cornerback Depth**

To address the potential void left by Hobbs, Green Bay made a strategic move Monday. Corey Ballentine was re-signed for a second stint with the Packers after being released by the Colts last week. The team simultaneously released cornerback Gregory Junior in a corresponding move.

Ballentine, 29, brings valuable experience as a core special teamer and solid cornerback play. In his previous time with Green Bay, he demonstrated his capabilities, particularly in the 11 games where he played 15 or more coverage snaps between 2023 and 2024. During those appearances, he maintained an average PFF coverage grade of 61.7, just above average.


**Hobbs: A Promising Addition Despite Early Mishaps**

Hobbs signed with Green Bay on a four-year, $48 million contract in March. He has quickly made waves with his aggressive and assertive playing style during training camp.

While his intensity has drawn praise from coaches, it has also resulted in some disciplinary actions.  He was cautioned for a hard hit on Dontayvion Wicks in a non-padded practice and again for a low tackle on MarShawn Lloyd during a session where players were instructed not to go to ground. 

Despite these hiccups, Gutekunst highlighted Hobbs' versatility and physicality at Family Night. “He has all the aggressiveness and physicality we were looking for when we brought him in here,” he stated.


The Packers will now navigate the next few weeks without Hobbs' energetic presence but remain optimistic about his return for the season opener. 


## Packers Cornerback Hobbs Undergoes Minor Knee Surgery

**Green Bay Faces Brief Setback as Starter Prepares for Season Opener**

With just one month until the

Packers CB Nate Hobbs has knee surgery, hopes to return for 

Packers CB Nate Hobbs has knee surgery, hopes to return for regular season opener

##  Wilson's Impact: New QB Sparks Young Star's Growth 

**Giants Head Coach Praises Veteran's Influence on Rising Receiver**


The New York Giants enter the season with a new face at quarterback, 10-time Pro Bowler Russell Wilson. This move comes after an offseason of major changes to the team's signal caller position. As Malik Nabers embarks on his second year, he follows a rookie season marked by quarterback instability.  However, training camp has seen a clear connection blossoming between Wilson and Nabers.

Head Coach Brian Daboll lauded the impact Wilson has had on Nabers during Monday's post-camp press conference. 

“I think he’s had a very positive impact on Malik,” Daboll said. "They have a good relationship, they spend a lot of time in the meeting room, and then they spend time outside just in terms of body maintenance, how Russ takes care of his body, the things he's done to have a long career. He’s kind of grabbed hold of that, asks a lot of questions, he’s very involved."

Daboll continued, "Talking about Malik in the meetings, communicative. I know you see a lot of the plays that he makes out on the field. But the thing I'm most proud of is the growth he’s made as an individual in the meeting rooms, outside the building. And I think Russ has had a big impact on that as well. He’s one of our best players, in terms of Malik."

"And I think he's made strides from year one to year two in a lot of areas. And I'm very proud of how he's approached really the whole offseason and then into training camp. But I do think that the relationship he has with Russ has been impactful.”

**Can Wilson-Nabers Ignite Giants Offense?**


The success of this budding connection could translate to a fruitful season for both Wilson and Nabers.  The presence of Wilson under center opens up opportunities for downfield passing, benefiting not only Nabers but also veterans like Darius Slayton. The speedster Jalin Hyatt could also see increased involvement in the offense, providing another target for the veteran quarterback.

With a challenging schedule ahead and Wilson's contract expiring at the end of the season, motivation runs high for the seasoned QB to propel the Giants' offense from the start. 


Nabers was a key factor in luring Wilson to New York. Expect Wilson to prioritize connecting with his star receiver early and often throughout the season.  


##  Wilson's Impact: New QB Sparks Young Star's Growth 

**Giants Head Coach Praises Veteran's Influence on Rising Receiver**


The New York Giants enter the se

Giants&#39; Brian Daboll praises Russell Wilson for &#39;pos

Giants&#39; Brian Daboll praises Russell Wilson for &#39;positive impact&#39; on Malik Nabers

## High School Football Kicks Off: Players to Watch in the Gaylord Area

**Season Opener Set For August 28th**

GAYLORD — Summer is winding down, which means one thing: high school football season is just around the corner! With kickoff scheduled for Thursday, August 28th, teams across Michigan are gearing up for another exciting year.  All three Gaylord-area squads will be playing at home to start the season. Gaylord takes on North Branch, Johannesburg-Lewiston hosts Burton-Bendle and Gaylord St. Mary welcomes Rudyard.

This new season brings fresh faces and emerging talent. Fans will see all three teams sporting new quarterbacks, alongside playmakers looking to make their mark alongside returning starters. 


**Gaylord Blue Devils:**

* **Jaron Bensinger, Linebacker:** The name "Bensinger" is synonymous with Gaylord athletic success. Jaron follows in his older brother Ty's footsteps, who was a state champion wrestler and All-State football player. After winning the D2, 144-pound wrestling state title at Ford Field this past March, Jaron now aims to conquer the gridiron. A second-team All-Big North linebacker last season, he will likely lead the Blue Devils' defense, which allowed just 16.2 points per game in 2024 despite a 3-6 overall record.

* **Kaven Cole, Receiver/Linebacker:** Gaylord found its offensive rhythm late last season, especially in the passing game, thanks in part to sophomore Andrew Szymoniak at quarterback. Cole emerged as a key target for Szymoniak and will likely be the new QB's favorite option in 2025.  He capped off the season with a breakout performance against Escanaba, helping Gaylord come back from a fourth-quarter deficit to win 19-15 on a last-second touchdown pass from Szymoniak to Cole. He finished the game with 5 receptions for 65 yards and 2 touchdowns. Cole also earned honorable mention All-BNC at linebacker.

**Johannesburg-Lewiston Cardinals:**

* **Joey Smokevitch, Running Back/Fullback/Defensive Back:**  After years of watching his father's teams in the Northern Michigan Football Conference, junior Joey Smokevitch is poised to become a key player and leader for the Cardinals seeking success. Smokevitch returns as the team's leading rusher with 282 total yards and 175 yards in NMFC-Legacy games, earning All-NMFC Legacy Honorable Mention in 2024. He will step up to fill the void left by graduating seniors Nate Hummel and Kyler Nowak. Smokevitch is also a first-team All-NMFC Legacy defensive back and an MHSAA Advisory Council selection, bringing both talent and experience to the Cardinals.

* **Wyatt Konkle, Offensive/Defensive Line:** To run Coach Joe Smokevitch's Wing-T, run-heavy offense effectively, you need big bodies up front who are also athletic enough to move in space. Senior Wyatt Konkle provides that for JoBurg. He was JoBurg’s lone first-team All-NMFC Legacy selection on both sides of the ball in 2024, earning a spot among the first-team offensive and defensive linemen.  He will be relied upon even more as he enters his senior season, hoping to lead JoBurg back to its pre-2021 success.

**Gaylord St. Mary Snowbirds:**

* **Nathan O'Connell, Quarterback/Defensive Back:** After a few years of established upperclassmen at key positions, Gaylord St. Mary is ushering in a youth movement. Sophomore Nathan O'Connell is set to take over as the starting quarterback for his dad, Kevin O’Connell. "Chummy," as he's known around GSM, was thrust into action late last season when seniors Daniel Jacobson and Hogan McKinley went down with injuries during their 7-2 regular season. After earning first-team All-Ski Valley honors as a freshman, O'Connell looks to become one of the go-to players for the Snowbirds in 2025.

* **Logan Greenier, Charlie Cameron, David Wahl, Jackson Vernier, Offensive/Defensive Line:**  Standing out as a lineman in 8-player football can be tough. Last season, GSM’s line was among the best in the entire Ski Valley. All four of their regular offensive and defensive linemen earned either first-team or honorable mention honors, led by sophomore Logan Greenier as a first-team defender and Charlie Cameron as a first-team on the O-line. With all four returning, GSM’s new backfield should feel protected and secure.






## High School Football Kicks Off: Players to Watch in the Gaylord Area

**Season Opener Set For August 28th**

GAYLORD — Summer is winding down, which means on

Here are the Gaylord-area football players we are looking fo

Here are the Gaylord-area football players we are looking for this fall

##  Who Will Rule the Gridiron? Vote for Section V's Top Class A Football Star!

The countdown to the 2025 high school football season is on, and a new generation of stars is ready to shine in Section V.  Faber Builders presents your chance to predict who will emerge as the top player in Class A.

**A Battle for Division Dominance:**

Class A will be divided into Class A1 and Class A2. 

* **Class A1:** Brighton, Churchville-Chili, Greece Olympia/Odyssey, Hilton, Irondequoit, Spencerport, Webster Schroeder, Webster Thomas, Victor.
* **Class A2:** Brockport, Canandaigua, East/World of Inquiry, Eastridge, Gates Chili, Greece Arcadia, Greece Athena, Wilson/Early College.

**The Contenders:**

Nominees were carefully selected based on their outstanding performances as returning All-Greater Rochester football players or members of the 2024 Section V All-Stars first team.


**Cast Your Vote!**

Help decide who will claim the title of best Class A player in 2025 by voting now! The poll closes at 8 p.m. on Friday, August 8th.  You can vote multiple times for your favorite.  The winner will be announced on Monday, August 11th.

[Poll]


**Vote Now and Stay Tuned!** 


##  Who Will Rule the Gridiron? Vote for Section V's Top Class A Football Star!

The countdown to the 2025 high school football season is on, and a new generati

#Sports

Moroccan football federation enacts new rules ahead of 2025, 2030 tournaments

Ben Shelton reaches first career Masters 1000 semifinals at National Bank Open

Highlights of Chargers WR Keenan Allen's season with the Bears in 2024

ESPN analyst boldly calls Alex Caruso the NBA's best defensive player

Vote for top Mississippi high school football athlete for upcoming 2025 MHSAA, MAIS season

See Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman wearing ‘The Shirt’ during Wednesday’s practice

French activists launch petition in support of Achraf Hakimi amid rape allegations

Morocco's Mohamed El Khalil Binebine among 2025 Norseman Xtreme Triathlon Finishers

Packers CB Nate Hobbs has knee surgery, hopes to return for regular season opener

Giants' Brian Daboll praises Russell Wilson for 'positive impact' on Malik Nabers

Here are the Gaylord-area football players we are looking for this fall

Vote: Who will be the best Section V football player in Class A in 2025?