RIO DE JANEIRO — A fire tore through the sprawling training complex of one of Brazil’s biggest soccer clubs Friday, killing 10 people and leaving three teenagers injured, firefighters said.
Firefighters were called in just after 5 a.m. to battle a blaze at the Ninho de Urubu training ground of the Flamengo soccer club in Rio de Janeiro’s western region, a fire official told The Associated Press.
There was no word yet on the cause of the fire.
“Flamengo is in mourning” the team posted on its Twitter account.
The ages and identities of those killed were not released but the three injured were 14, 15 and 16 years old, the fire official said. The injured were taken to local hospitals and their conditions were not immediately known, said the official, who asked his name not be used due to his agency’s rules.
Local media reported that the fire started in a dorm where youth soccer players sleep. The fire official said that could not be confirmed.
Messages to Flamengo officials were not immediately answered.
Aerial images from Globo TV showed firefighters walking through a charred area with smoke emerging.
Outside the complex, an Associated Press reporter saw two ambulances and a fire truck enter. The facility was closed, and no officials had come out to address media.
Family members, friends and neighbours were gathering outside in hopes of getting information.
Jefferson Rodrigues, who runs a small inn near the club, said he had reached a 15-year-old player he had befriended.
“I am very happy. I just spoke to Caix Suarez and he is alive,” said Rodrigues, adding that the youth told him he ran when he saw the flames in the morning. “He lost his phone, and all of his things, but the important thing is he is alive.”
Joao Pedro da Cruz, a 16-year-old player in the Flamengo youth league, told G1 news portal that he decided not to stay the night at the facility Thursday because the team wasn’t going to train on Friday. Instead, he went to a friend’s house.
“The majority of them (the team) stayed, my friends stayed (at the facility),” he said. “Today I woke up and heard this terrible news.”
Like many professional clubs in soccer-crazed Brazil, Flamengo has a youth development program for promising young players in their early teens. Many players, particularly those who live outside of Rio de Janeiro, stay at the facilities while training.
The dream of many youths in Latin America’s largest nation, winner of five World Cup titles, is to make it into the ranks of professional soccer. The development leagues identify promising players at a young age, working with them as they grow through their teenage years.
The best of those eventually play for Flamengo and several other teams across Brazil.
As news of the fire broke, several teams and players expressed their condolences on Twitter.
“We are extremely sad and shaken by the news of the fire,” tweeted Chapeco, a team in southern Brazil that lost 22 players in a plane crash in 2016.
Peter Prengaman And Marcelo Sousa Da Silva, The Associated Press
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The Toronto Maple Leafs made the “what colour is that green light?” decision to fire their head coach Sheldon Keefe last week. The removal of Keefe after five years followed a dispiriting first-round playoff series loss to a very ordinary Boston Bruins team. Coaching may or may not have been the root cause of that loss. (Keefe himself admitted “teams are waiting for the Leafs to beat themselves”.)
The real reason for the firing is 1967, and we don’t think we need add more than that.
In essence, the management of MLSE— the owner of the Maple Leafs and a lot of other sports stuff in Toronto— needed to throw a body to the baying hounds of disappointment. Also known as Leafs Nation. Newly minted CEO Keith Pelley, fresh from the PGA Tour/ LIV psychodrama, was certainly not going to pay the price.
Nor was GM Brad Treliving who has only been on the job for two seasons. The key decisions on Toronto’s lopsided salary cap were decided long before Treliving occupied his desk. That left two people in vulnerable positions. 1) Maple Leafs president Brendan Shanahan, who has been drawing an MLSE cheque for a decade. 2) Keefe.
When was the last time you saw a coach fire a team president? Precisely. Keefe joins the list of (briefly) unemployed coaches who circulate in the NHL like McKinsey consultants. Shanahan gets a lukewarm mulligan from Pelley. But after the failure of the Kyle Dubas experiment— “who needs experience?”— and now just a single playoff series win in a decade Shanny’s best-before date has arrived.
Toronto Maple Leafs president Brendan Shanahan attends a news conference in Toronto on April 14, 2014. Toronto Maple Leafs president Brendan Shanahan said Peter Horachek will remain the team’s interim head coach until the end of the season. Shanahan met the media Friday for the first time since coach Randy Carlyle was fired on Tuesday. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young
Depending on who he and Treliving enlist to coach— remember, Mike Babcock was too tough and Keefe was probably too player friendly— it had better produce instant results. Because Shanny, the pride of Mimico, is out of chances. The coach choice will also be affected by whichever player or players that management decides are superfluous to ending the Leafs’ ridiculous run of misery.
The Leafs brass’ press conference last Thursday did little to shed light on what happens after Keefe’s expulsion. Just a lot of MBA determinism on a bed of baffle gab. A crabby Steve Simmons question/rant briefly threatened the harmony of the moment, but order was restored. And the media bitching switched from the press box to social media and podcasts.
Speaking of the fourth estate, the other unmentioned aspect of this story— indeed every story in the NHL these days— is just how it was revealed to the public. When people sipped their morning Tim’s or Starbucks the (almost) coincident bulletins came down the social media pike about Keefe’s dismissal.
Predictably, Chris Johnston of Sportsnet and Daren Dreger of TSN announced the breaking news within heart beats of each other. While there had been speculation on Keefe’s fate for days, the announcement coming from the networks duo confirmed the story in the minds of the industry. That allowed everyone else drawing a cheque as a hockey journalist to pile in and swarm the dead body.
In today’s sports journalism, where social media has replaced newspapers, scoops are governed by a protocol. There are the heralds— in the NHL it’s currently Johnston and Dreger— and then there are the disseminators. The days of a rabble of reporters all scrambling to get a story bigger than who-will-play-in-tonight’s-game are gone. Today, it’s a very narrow funnel for scoops.
It’s the same in the NFL where Ian Rappaport (NFL Network) and Adam Schefter (ESPN) monopolize the tasty scoops on behalf of their employers, who also happen to be NFL rights holders. In the NBA, Brian Windhorst (ESPN) has the inside rail when it comes to the LeBron James/ Steph Curry scoops. In MLB… it’s probably Ken Rosenthal (The Athletic) but no one cares about baseball anymore, do they?
The leagues like it this way, doling out stories to guys they can trust. None of this is criticism of Johnston or Dreger, who have deftly maneuvered themselves into the coveted “from their lips to your ears” spots. From our own experience we can remember the exhilaration of having the best source or sources on the really big stories. Like Johnston/ Dreger, we worked hard for a long time to develop those sources and only very reluctantly let anyone else horn in on our stories.
It was also our observation that this order of things journalistic suited a lot of reporters who either couldn’t get good sources or didn’t want the stress of being first on stuff. It was enough that, like the Keefe story, they’d get the goods eventually and most fans would not care who was first. So long as you had a take. So be it.
Some resentful types took potshots at our work if it upset their pals in the dressing room or the management suite. On the Stephen Ames/ Tiger Woods story in 2001, we had the late Pat Marsden tell us on air that we’d done a great job on Ames’ criticisms of Tiger. Only to hear him lambaste us— again on FAN 590— only minutes later as we listened driving home from the studio. But we digress.
Many reporters are complacent in playing the game, so long as their bosses didn’t enquire why they are getting scooped all the time by the same few rivals. With the death of daily newspapers that doesn’t happen much any longer. (Many editors today may only see stories when publication brings a libel notice.) For them a salty take is good enough.
The scoop business is also affected by the multiple roles now demanded of sports media types. In addition to their “day job” on a beat they also have to supply digital content and talk-back hits to the Mother Ship. Most also are feeding a weekly podcast, dictating time on air rather than time working the phone. There are only so many hours in a day to chase a story.
Better to play the Breaking News waiting game.
Bruce Dowbiggin @dowbboy is the publisher of Not The Public Broadcaster A two-time winner of the Gemini Award as Canada’s top television sports broadcaster, he’s a regular contributor to Sirius XM Canada Talks Ch. 167. Now for pre-order, new from the team of Evan & Bruce Dowbiggin . Deal With It: The Trades That Stunned The NHL & Changed Hockey. From Espo to Boston in 1967 to Gretz in L.A. in 1988 to Patrick Roy leaving Montreal in 1995, the stories behind the story. Launching in paperback and Kindle on #Amazon this week. Destined to be a hockey best seller. https://www.amazon.ca/Deal-Trades-Stunned-Changed-Hockey-ebook/dp/B0D236NB35/
Win Our Wine Tree!Toast to champions by purchasing tickets for the Wine Tree Raffle and support the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame. Every ticket not only brings you closer to winning an exquisite selection of wines and liquor, but also contributes to honouring Alberta’s sporting heroes. Your support helps preserve their legacies and inspires future generations of athletes. Tickets are $20 and only 300 tickets available, call us today at 403-341-8614 with a credit card number or sending an e-transfer to [email protected].
Celebrating with Lethbridge Sports Hall of FamersOn Friday, May 3rd, Tracey Kinsella, our Executive Director, made the journey to Lethbridge for their Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. The Lethbridge Sports Hall of Fame, a non-profit organization led by dedicated community members, commemorates the accomplishments of athletes and contributors from Lethbridge and its surroundings.
During her visit, Tracey met with Cor Ouwerkerk, an esteemed member inducted in 2005 for his contributions to Volleyball. Cor initiated his Legacy donation process last year, a charitable gesture wherein individuals designate gifts in their wills to support causes close to their hearts. If you would like to discuss your Legacy donation to the Hall of Fame, please reach out to Tracey.
Tracey also connected with other distinguished members, including George Gemer, Dr. Gary Bowie, Max Gibb, and Rick Duff. George Gemer, recognized in 1994 as a Track & Field Builder, Dr. Gary Bowie, honored twice in 2014 and 2022 for his multifaceted contributions and ACAC Founders’ Pioneer Award, Max Gibb, acknowledged in 1998 as a Multisport Builder, and Rick Duff, inducted in 2017 as a Boxing Athlete.
We were privileged to receive an invitation to the Lethbridge Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. To invite us to your upcoming event, please call 403-341-8614.
Meet the Class of 2024!
Induction Ceremony Tickets AvailableThe annual Induction Ceremony serves as the focal point for commemorating extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication that illuminates the vibrant sports landscape of Alberta. Join us in honouring the outstanding individuals of the Class of 2024 on May 24 at the Red Deer Polytechnic Cenovus Centre.
The festivities will kick off with a reception at 5:30 pm, followed by the commencement of the ceremony at 6:30 pm. It promises to be an evening filled with recognition, celebration, and the joyous spirit of Alberta’s sports community.
Click on the link below to purchase your tickets. If you need help or want more information, please call the office at 403-341-8614.
Alberta Government Announces Support for FacilitiesThe Government of Alberta recently announced that they would be investing in Alberta’s sport and recreational facilities.
Read more about this story by clicking on the link below.
Silent Auction Items Needed!We’re gearing up for this year’s Induction Ceremony and we need your help to make it extraordinary. Do you have a unique item, an unforgettable experience, or a coveted service you’re willing to donate? Whether it’s a handmade masterpiece, a gift certificate for a local hotspot, or a behind-the-scenes tour, every contribution makes a difference.
Your donation will not only support the Hall but also showcase your generosity to Alberta’s sporting community. Contact us today to contribute to our silent auction. Call 403-341-8614 or send an email to [email protected].
Preserving History and Saving LivesThe Alberta Sports Hall of Fame staff and our friends at Tourism Red Deer recently dedicated time to renew and enhance their First Aid certifications. With a commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of visitors and colleagues alike, they invested in the latest training to handle any emergencies with confidence and competence. This proactive approach reflects the organization’s unwavering dedication to maintaining a secure environment for all patrons, underscoring their commitment to professionalism and preparedness in every aspect of their operations.
This newsletter is sponsored by Tourism Red Deer.
Honoured Member Profile- U of L Pronghorns
Rugby Team-Inducted 2015
The University of Lethbridge Pronghorns Women’s Rugby Team, led by head coach Neil Langevin, clinched three consecutive CIS Championships in 2007, 2008, and 2009. Dominating their conference and national tournaments, standout performances from players like Brittany Orr and Ashley Patzer propelled the team to victory, leaving a lasting legacy with the establishment of the Rugby Academy in Lethbridge, fostering talent for Canada’s national rugby teams.
Learn more about the 2007-2009 Pronghorns by clicking on their Honoured Member Profile.
Rugby Alberta is a dynamic organization dedicated to promoting and developing the sport of rugby across the province. With a focus on fostering growth at all levels, from grassroots to elite competition, Rugby Alberta provides opportunities for players, coaches, and officials to thrive in this exhilarating sport.
2024 Wheelchair Rugby National Championships Coming Up!
Wheelchair Sports Alberta is hosting the Championships in Calgary from May 17-19.
Wheelchair Sports Alberta is a beacon of inclusion and empowerment, providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage in various sports and recreational activities. Through their programs and events, they champion accessibility, resilience, and community spirit, enriching lives and fostering a culture of athleticism for all abilities across Alberta.
Learn more about this event by clicking on the link below.
2024 Inductee Highlight-Julius Fodor
We’re only have a few more inductees left to highlight. Today we are highlighting Julius Fodor and Chris McGregor.
Julius Fodor played a pivotal role in advancing team handball in Alberta from 1963 onwards. Initially coaching at several Edmonton high schools, he founded the “Edmonton Canucks,” which significantly contributed to the sport’s future success in the province. Over the following years, Fodor played a vital role in introducing handball to prominent events such as the Alberta Winter Games and the Western Canada Games, and in developing the Canadian Team Handball Federation. Starting in 1968, he both played and coached teams at the international level, actively participating in organizing the 1978 North American Championships. Fodor’s extensive involvement in handball, spanning local, provincial, national, and international levels from the 1960s to the early 2000s, defines his lasting legacy in the sport. Anyone who has played handball in western Canada owes a debt of gratitude to Julius, acknowledging him as a pioneering force in introducing and fostering the sport in the region.
Julius is being inducted as a Handball Builder. He will be the first inductee for the sport of Handball.
2024 Inductee Highlight-Chris McGregor
Chris is a legendary figure in the world of horse racing. From 1979 to 2006 he participated in nearly 14,000 races and won 2,248 of them. A career high point came in 2000 when he won the Canadian Derby aboard Scotman, boasting an impressive 46% winning rate. McGregor’s excellence was recognized with nominations for the Sovereign Award in 1990 and 1992, along with notable wins such as Jockey of the Year in Saskatchewan in 1987 and Outstanding Jockey of the Year in 1988. He continued to be recognized for his winning talents by earning the Lou Davis Memorial Trophy for the top jockey in Alberta with 229 wins in 1990, as well as receiving the Joe Perlove Award for the most wins.
Chris will be inducted as a Horse Racing Athlete (Jockey).
Let’s Champion Our Local Sports Heroes and Inspire the Champions of Tomorrow
Your donation will ensure your Hall can continue to champion our Alberta sports heroes. Donate through our website, attend our events, and be a part of our Sports Hall of Fame’s legacy. Thank you for your support!
