## Predator Overcomes Mental Hurdles to Return to Ice

**Nashville defenseman opens up about lifelong battle with anxiety and depression.**

Nashville Predators defenseman Spencer Stastney has returned to the ice after a difficult period away from the game. In a recent interview on "32 Thoughts: The Podcast," Stastney revealed he was battling anxiety and depression that nearly led him to retire in 2024. 


“I was thinking that I'm done. That I'm absolutely done with hockey,” Stastney confessed.

The announcement of his absence from training camp in September 2024, two months after he received a two-year contract at arbitration, sent shockwaves through the organization. Now, Stastney sheds light on his struggles, tracing them back to his youth hockey days in Milwaukee.


"It was at the end of the Milwaukee Admirals' deep run in the Calder Cup Playoffs in 2024 when Stastney realized he needed to step away from hockey," the podcast revealed. After consulting with his agent, Pete Rutili, Stastney even prepared retirement papers, convinced he could no longer play.


“I thought it was going to be a sigh of relief, that I was going to get up in the morning and feel great. I was going to apply for jobs, like I'm a new person. I'm free finally. And I was still miserable,” Stastney admitted.

Seeking help through the NHLPA’s player assistance program, Stastney began therapy and uncovered family dynamics contributing to his anxiety and depression.  His parents' eventual divorce, coupled with other stressors stemming from moving with his mother and brother to Chicago at a young age, took a toll.


“Knowing that everyone was having a tough time while I was having a blast with friends and living my best life, that guilt really weighed upon me and added up to a lot of things that I came to realize in therapy,” Stastney explained. “Pretty much everything went south in my family after the Chicago move.”


The weight of this guilt made hockey unbearable for him.


“I didn't take care of myself," he said. "Slowly things started to deteriorate. I wasn't doing anything outside of the rink. I'd go to the rink, I'd come home, I'd sit on my couch, like what do I do now?"

Through months of therapy and support from Predators development coach Mark Borowiecki, Stastney began to feel excited about hockey again.  He rejoined the Admirals in November 2024, making his debut on December 7th. Due to injuries on the Preds roster, he was recalled to the NHL in January 2025 and played 23 games for the Predators.


While Stastney has made a remarkable comeback, he acknowledges there is still work to be done. 


“I’m still trying to figure out my relationship with hockey," he said.   


## Predator Overcomes Mental Hurdles to Return to Ice

**Nashville defenseman opens up about lifelong battle with anxiety and depression.**

Nashville Predators

Nashville Predators&#39; Spencer Stastney reveals lifelong b

Nashville Predators&#39; Spencer Stastney reveals lifelong battle with anxiety, depression

## The Underrated Hero: Is Zach Sieler the Most Valuable Miami Dolphin?

**MIAMI GARDENS -**  While stars like Micah Parsons, Trey Hendrickson, and Terry McLaurin demand trades due to perceived low compensation, Zach Sieler quietly embodies a different approach. The Miami Dolphins defensive lineman, despite being demonstrably underpaid, remains steadfastly committed to his team, turning heads with his unwavering dedication.

### A Contract That Doesn't Reflect Value

Sieler's current contract averages $10.25 million per year – a figure dwarfed by the 30 defensive tackles who earn more annually.  His agent, Drew Rosenhaus, and even the Dolphins themselves acknowledge his true value, which is far exceeding his current compensation.

But while Sieler understands his worth, he chooses to focus on what truly matters: being on the field with his teammates. “What I really care about is getting out there on the field with the guys,” he stated, highlighting a commitment that transcends financial considerations.


### A Leader By Example

Coach Mike McDaniel applauds Sieler's unwavering dedication, recognizing his influence on the team. "I’m very aware that all players have a choice in what they do on a day-to-day basis, specifically with Zach," McDaniel said. “And his actions speak and I think his teammates very much recognize how Zach Sieler plays football and contributes to the building every day.” 

Sieler's consistent performance speaks volumes. His back-to-back 10-sack seasons solidify him as one of the league’s elite interior defensive linemen, a title few can argue with.


### A Different Path

In contrast to Parsons, McLaurin, and Hendrickson who have opted for more public displays of discontent, Sieler maintains a quiet strength. “I think everyone's decision is their own path, their own journey,” he stated. "I have my path and my journey.”  His unwavering commitment to his team and personal beliefs sets him apart.

Zach Sieler may not be the loudest voice in the locker room, but his actions speak volumes.  He represents a different kind of value – one built on dedication, integrity, and performance.  As he continues to defy expectations and leave his mark on the field, it begs the question: Is Zach Sieler truly the most valuable Miami Dolphin? 




## The Underrated Hero: Is Zach Sieler the Most Valuable Miami Dolphin?

**MIAMI GARDENS -**  While stars like Micah Parsons, Trey Hendrickson, and Terry McLaur

Miami Dolphins&#39; Zach Sieler: As NFL stars demand trades,

Miami Dolphins&#39; Zach Sieler: As NFL stars demand trades, his value rises | Habib

##  Moroccan Lawyers Raise Alarm Over Hakimi Rape Case Proceedings

**Club des Avocats au Maroc cites "serious violations" and procedural flaws in French investigation.** 

The judicial process surrounding Moroccan international footballer Achraf Hakimi, accused of rape in France, has sparked concern from the Club des Avocats au Maroc. In an official statement released on August 1st, the organization warned of “serious violations of fundamental rights” and procedural irregularities that could potentially undermine the fairness of the case against the Paris Saint-Germain defender.  


The group's statement emphasizes their worry regarding the integrity of the proceedings, calling for a thorough examination to ensure Hakimi receives a fair trial. 


##  Moroccan Lawyers Raise Alarm Over Hakimi Rape Case Proceedings

**Club des Avocats au Maroc cites "serious violations" and procedural flaws in French invest

Hakimi’s rape case: Moroccan lawyers’ group flags “serious i

Hakimi’s rape case: Moroccan lawyers’ group flags “serious irregularities” in French proceedings

## Baseball Dreams Come True: Idaho Student Lands Internship at National Hall of Fame

**Cooperstown Beckons With Historic Artifacts and Legends**


A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity presented itself to Isabelle Monk, a University of Idaho junior, when she was offered an internship at the National Baseball Hall of Fame.  "It wasn't a question of if, but a question of when I could start," Monk said, expressing her enthusiasm for the chance to immerse herself in baseball history. 

This summer, Monk has been working at the museum based in Cooperstown, N.Y., a town she describes as "a town of about 2,000 people with one stoplight." The Hall of Fame, which opened in 1939, houses more than 40,000 baseball artifacts and serves as a repository for the sport's rich history.  Monk witnessed firsthand the museum's impact during last weekend's highly anticipated Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.

"The most mind-boggling part of it all is how a town like this gets probably 30,000 or so people at the induction ceremony," Monk said, highlighting the event's significance and attracting tens of thousands of baseball fans annually.

Monk had the privilege of meeting several baseball legends during her unforgettable weekend in Cooperstown.  Growing up in Genesee, where sports were a constant presence, Monk fondly remembers watching major league games with her dad and papa, as well as trips to watch the NAIA World Series in Lewiston. 


**From Arizona to Cooperstown: An Internship Born from serendipity**

Monk's journey to this dream internship began last winter during an impulsive trip to Scottsdale, Ariz., with her mother, Kim Monk, the Idaho state director for the Make It With Wool program.  During a chance encounter, she met a Hall of Fame curator who provided her with a link to apply for the Steele Internship Program just a week before the deadline.


Monk, a marketing and public relations student at UI, secured a special events internship at the museum.  A key part of her role involved planning and coordinating for Hall of Fame Weekend, allowing her to interact with all the living Hall of Famers. 


## Baseball Dreams Come True: Idaho Student Lands Internship at National Hall of Fame

**Cooperstown Beckons With Historic Artifacts and Legends**


A once-in-a

UI student spends 2025 summer at Baseball Hall of Fame in Co

UI student spends 2025 summer at Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown

## Can Jalin Hyatt Finally Ignite His Giants Career?

**Third-Round Pick Aims to Prove Himself After Disappointing Start** 

The New York Giants drafted wide receiver Jalin Hyatt in the third round of the 2023 NFL draft, hoping he'd bring explosive speed and "take the top off" defenses. Two years later, that promise remains unfulfilled. Hyatt has struggled to find his footing, failing to consistently earn the trust of coaches and quarterbacks. 

But this year could be different. With three new quarterbacks on the roster all eager to work with the former Tennessee standout, a fresh start may be just what Hyatt needs.

"For myself, disappointing," Hyatt admitted when reflecting on his challenging 2024 season. "I felt like I could have done better. I had opportunities. I felt like I didn't make the most of them. It's a new year, a new opportunity. I just can't wait to go out there and ball with the guys."

Hyatt’s renewed energy is evident, fueled in part by the guidance of quarterback Russell Wilson. 

"A true pro, a true leader," Hyatt said of Wilson. "He always calls me, texts me, if he sees something that he liked or didn't like, and he's so good at communicating with our receivers, with our tight ends, with our running backs. I think you can just see it in that room; everybody’s confidence is higher. It’s going to be a fun year."

One challenge Hyatt faced was his size. His initially slender frame struggled against the physicality of NFL defenders. The Giants are hoping he'll find success playing in the slot, where contact is more frequent. To prepare for this role, Hyatt has focused on bulking up.

"I played around 171-172 pounds last year and played outside mostly," Hyatt explained. "Didn’t really have a lot of slot reps. For myself, I just felt like I need to get stronger, more physical. It helped me with contested catches, helped me with blocking. Not only that, with press technique, especially going against bigger corners in the league. So that's one of the biggest emphases for myself."

Despite his offseason dedication and Wilson’s support, Hyatt won’t be handed a starting spot. He must earn it through consistent performance. Battling leg cramps and other minor ailments have limited his reps during camp, but he's adjusting to his new physique and aiming for continued improvement. 

"I'm around 189, 190," Hyatt revealed. "I’m trying to maintain that 190 area and see how that works this year."


Can Hyatt finally live up to the potential the Giants saw in him two years ago? The answer will unfold as the season progresses. 


## Can Jalin Hyatt Finally Ignite His Giants Career?

**Third-Round Pick Aims to Prove Himself After Disappointing Start** 

The New York Giants drafted wide re

Bulked-up Jalin Hyatt ready to fight for his New York Giants

Bulked-up Jalin Hyatt ready to fight for his New York Giants career this summer

## Fantasy Football Kickers: Who's Poised for Big Points in 2025?

The kicker position in fantasy football can be a gamble. Some leagues ditch it entirely due to the unpredictable nature of scoring, while others embrace the chaos it brings. This year, finding a consistent kicker with accuracy and volume is key to success.  So who fits the bill for 2025?

**Top Kicker Contenders:**

USA TODAY Sports breaks down the top fantasy kickers heading into the season, starting with some familiar faces:

1. **Brandon Aubrey, Dallas Cowboys:** A dominant force in his first two seasons, Aubrey boasts one of the league's strongest legs and has converted an impressive 24 out of 27 field goals from 50+ yards. As long as he maintains this accuracy, he's a lock for top fantasy kicker status.

2. **Jake Bates, Detroit Lions:**  Another big-legged former soccer player (like Aubrey), Bates brings a powerful leg to the Lions' potent offense. However, concerns arise after the departure of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who could potentially impact field goal opportunities.

3. **Cameron Dicker, Los Angeles Chargers:** "Dicker the Kicker" is a safe bet with a consistent track record. He averages 2.16 field goal attempts per game and boasts an impressive 93.8% conversion rate with the Chargers.

4. **Chase McLaughlin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers:**  McLaughlin has consistently delivered over three seasons, making at least 29 field goals each year. Playing for a high-scoring Bucs team in warm-weather Tampa gives him plenty of opportunities to shine.


5. **Chris Boswell, Pittsburgh Steelers:** Leading the league with 41 field goals last season (including 13 from 50+ yards), Boswell remains a high-volume kicker even with Aaron Rodgers potentially impacting scoring chances.

**…and More Top Performers:**

The article continues to delve into rankings 6 through 25, analyzing players like Tyler Bass, Matt Gay, Harrison Butker, Wil Lutz, and more.  It highlights factors such as weather conditions, team offensive strength, and individual player performance history to provide a comprehensive guide for fantasy managers seeking reliable kicker options for the upcoming season.   




## Fantasy Football Kickers: Who's Poised for Big Points in 2025?

The kicker position in fantasy football can be a gamble. Some leagues ditch it entirely due t

Fantasy football kicker rankings 2025: Target Brandon Aubrey

Fantasy football kicker rankings 2025: Target Brandon Aubrey, Jake Bates

##  Harit Shines in Marseille Pre-Season, Silencing Transfer Rumors

**Marseille, France:** Moroccan midfielder Amine Harit is turning heads with impressive performances during Olympique de Marseille's summer training camp ahead of the 2025-26 season.  

The 28-year-old had been linked with a potential transfer exit during the recent window but has silenced any doubts with strong displays on the pitch, according to a source close to the team. 


### Coach De Zerbi Praises Harit's Form
Harit's performances have not gone unnoticed by Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi, who has publicly praised the Moroccan's contributions to the team's preparations. 

"[Quote from Roberto De Zerbi praising Amine Harit]"  


This positive development sees Harit solidify his place within the Marseille squad as they gear up for a new season.   


##  Harit Shines in Marseille Pre-Season, Silencing Transfer Rumors

**Marseille, France:** Moroccan midfielder Amine Harit is turning heads with impressive per

Morocco’s Amine Harit impresses Marseille coach ahead of new

Morocco’s Amine Harit impresses Marseille coach ahead of new season

## Back Injury Forces Van Rooyen Out of Wyndham Championship

**Weather Suspension Follows Withdrawal Announcement**

A back injury has sidelined South African golfer Erik van Rooyen at the 2025 Wyndham Championship, just hours after play was suspended due to dangerous weather. The PGA Tour announced van Rooyen's withdrawal Friday afternoon during his second round. He was 1 over through 14 holes and 4 over for the tournament, well below the projected cut line of 4 under.

This marks another withdrawal from the final event of the 2025 regular season on the PGA Tour. Four other golfers had already withdrawn since Sunday. Van Rooyen's departure was announced just 10 minutes after officials halted play due to unfavorable conditions.


**FedEx Cup Hopes Dented**

At the time of his withdrawal, van Rooyen sat at 68th in the projected FedEx Cup Playoffs standings, four spots lower than his starting position. Only the top 70 players advance to next week's FedEx St. Jude Championship in Memphis, marking the first event of the postseason.  


## Back Injury Forces Van Rooyen Out of Wyndham Championship

**Weather Suspension Follows Withdrawal Announcement**

A back injury has sidelined South African 

Erik van Rooyen withdraws from Wyndham Championship late Fri

Erik van Rooyen withdraws from Wyndham Championship late Friday afternoon

## Heartbreak for Atlas Lionesses, Valuable Lessons Learned 

**Morocco's Dream of WAFCON Glory Falls Short Against Nigerian Super Falcons**

"The WAFCON title was lost due to small details. We fought hard and showed great commitment, but the Super Falcons’ resilience made the difference.” - Jorge Vilda, Morocco Head Coach


Despite a valiant effort, Morocco's Atlas Lionesses fell just short in their pursuit of WAFCON glory, narrowly losing to Nigeria in the final match.  While the result stings, coach Jorge Vilda acknowledges the team's dedication and performance, highlighting the importance of minute details that ultimately swayed the game in favor of the Super Falcons. 

This setback presents a crucial opportunity for reflection and growth. There are important small victories to celebrate—and valuable lessons to take forward as Morocco continues its journey towards international football success.   


## Heartbreak for Atlas Lionesses, Valuable Lessons Learned 

**Morocco's Dream of WAFCON Glory Falls Short Against Nigerian Super Falcons**

"The WAFCON title 

Opinion: The missing link in Morocco’s WAFCON final heartbre

Opinion: The missing link in Morocco’s WAFCON final heartbreak

##  Fears and Cooper Crowned Champions at 20th Annual Moneyball Pro-Am

**Spartan Stars Shine in Offseason Showdown**

Jeremy Fears Jr. and Carson Cooper etched their names on the trophy after leading Tri-Star to victory at this year's Moneyball Pro-Am Thursday evening. The anticipated Michigan State starters bested Faygo, spearheaded by Jaxon Kohler and Divine Ugochukwu, in a thrilling final matchup.  


The championship concluded the 20th anniversary of the popular event, leaving fans buzzing for next summer's competition.

**Offseason Development on Full Display**

This year's Moneyball Pro-Am provided a captivating glimpse into the Spartans' offseason growth. Cooper showcased a notably improved three-point shot throughout the tournament, demonstrating his dedication to refining his game during the off-season. 


The victory for Fears and Cooper underscores their potential as key players for Michigan State next season. With the Big Ten title defense looming on the horizon, all eyes will be on these stars as they translate their summer success onto the court this fall.  

**Twitter Reaction:**
"[Tri-Star (Jeremy Fears Jr./Carson Cooper) wins the championship to close out the 20th #MoneyballProAm]" - Stephen Brooks (@StephenM_Brooks) August 1, 2025





##  Fears and Cooper Crowned Champions at 20th Annual Moneyball Pro-Am

**Spartan Stars Shine in Offseason Showdown**

Jeremy Fears Jr. and Carson Cooper etched

Jeremy Fears Jr., Carson Cooper lead team to Moneyball Pro-A

Jeremy Fears Jr., Carson Cooper lead team to Moneyball Pro-Am championship

## McLaurin Trades Request Rocks Washington

**Star Receiver Seeks New Home After Contract Dispute**

Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin has requested a trade from the team, after skipping Phase 3 of the offseason program and the mandatory minicamp. He initially held out at the start of training camp, incurring daily fines of $50,000. However, after four days, he reported to the Commanders on Sunday.  

Upon arrival, McLaurin was immediately placed on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list due to an ankle injury. Despite his absence from practice, he has continued to interact with fans by signing autographs after sessions conclude. 

McLaurin has one year remaining on a contract extension signed in 2022 and is eager to remain with the Commanders.  The team also desires to keep him on their roster.


**Social Media Explodes Following Trade Request**

News of McLaurin's trade request ignited a flurry of reactions across social media, with fans, analysts, and personalities weighing in on the situation. 

**Here's a glimpse into the online discourse:**

* **Al Galdi (@AlGaldi):** "The leverage in the Terry McLaurin situation is overwhelmingly with the Commanders... If an extension is gonna happen, it’s gonna happen on Adam Peters' terms."


* **Kevin Sheehan (@kevinsheehanDC):** "You can't trade yourself. Team has all of the financial leverage...He's under contract in '25; the '26 tag is less than what he's asking for now." 

* **Grant Paulsen (@granthpaulsen):**  "Tee Higgins asked for a trade. He’s still on the Bengals (and on a new deal). Brandon Aiyuk requested a trade. He’s still on the 49ers (and on a new deal). Deebo Samuel requested a trade. He wasn’t traded that season; played for SF. The chances of a McLaurin trade are remote."

* **JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS):** "Terry McLaurin is obviously frustrated and the trade request was kinda his last card to play outside of actually missing games. I wouldn't have expected it until mid-August, but maybe that speaks to the level of frustration."

* **Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter):** "Over the past two years, at least three wide receivers requested trades: Tee Higgins, Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk. None were traded in the year in which they made the request. McLaurin is now the latest WR to seek a trade when failing to land the contract he wanted."



**A Wave of Fan Reactions**

From humor to heartfelt support, fans expressed their opinions across various platforms:


* **Cameron Mulyk (@CameronMulyk):** [Tweet containing an image] 
* **deuce (@deucehesi):**  [Tweet about the Commanders' actions] 
* **WizardsMuse (@WizardsMuse1):** [Tweet praising McLaurin's loyalty]

The reactions continue to pour in, reflecting the strong connection fans have with McLaurin and the impact this situation has on their beloved team.   




## McLaurin Trades Request Rocks Washington

**Star Receiver Seeks New Home After Contract Dispute**

Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin has req

NFL world reacts to Terry McLaurin requesting trade from Com

NFL world reacts to Terry McLaurin requesting trade from Commanders

## Evander Leads FC Cincinnati to Dramatic Victory Over CF Monterrey

**Cincinnati Edges Out Liga MX Giants in Thrilling Leagues Cup Opener**

TQL Stadium erupted as FC Cincinnati secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over CF Monterrey in the opening match of the 2025 Leagues Cup on July 31st. Evander was the star of the show, orchestrating the attack with two goals and crucial assists, propelling Cincinnati to a crucial three points against strong Liga MX competition.

**Controversial Goal Sparks Second-Half Surge**

After a tense first half that ended tied at 1-1, Cincinnati took control in the second period.  Luca Orellano's goal in the 58th minute sparked controversy. Initially flagged offside, the call was overturned after a lengthy VAR review, awarding Orellano the score and giving Cincinnati a 2-1 lead.

This ignited Cincinnati's attack, with Evander again shining. His pinpoint pass to Pavel Bucha in the 90th minute sealed the deal, securing a 3-1 lead for the home side.  Monterrey's star forward Germán Berterame scored a consolation header in stoppage time, making the final score 3-2, but it wasn't enough to overturn the result.

**Cincinnati Aims High After Convincing Win**

This victory serves as sweet revenge for Cincinnati following two losses to Monterrey in the 2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup. It also puts them in a strong position to advance to the Leagues Cup quarterfinals, with only four out of 18 MLS teams set to progress.


**First Half: A Tense Battle of Skill and Strategy**

The match began at a rapid pace, with both sides creating early chances.  Evander almost opened the scoring for Cincinnati after just minutes, narrowly missing wide from 20 yards.  He eventually found the back of the net in the 31st minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to fire past goalkeeper Luis Cardenas.

Monterrey responded valiantly, with star player Germán Berterame having several promising opportunities. However, Cincinnati's Evan Louro proved resolute in goal, keeping them at bay.  Sergio Canales equalized for Monterrey just before halftime, his left-footed shot deflecting off a defender and finding its way into the net.

**Second Half: A Show of Dominance by Cincinnati**

The second half saw Cincinnati take control of the game. Their superior possession and attacking play proved too much for Monterrey to handle.  

With the victory secured, FC Cincinnati will now face FC Juarez on August 3rd in their next Leagues Cup fixture.




## Evander Leads FC Cincinnati to Dramatic Victory Over CF Monterrey

**Cincinnati Edges Out Liga MX Giants in Thrilling Leagues Cup Opener**

TQL Stadium erupt

#Sports

Nashville Predators' Spencer Stastney reveals lifelong battle with anxiety, depression

Miami Dolphins' Zach Sieler: As NFL stars demand trades, his value rises | Habib