#USC Spring Game

[lafbnetwork]

USC Trojans Cancel Spring Game, Will Other Schools Follow Suit?

The USC Trojans have canceled their traditional spring game, following the likes of Nebraska, Ohio State, and others. Is this the new trend and will other schools jump on board? Why is this happening and is the transfer portal the root cause?  The Coach and Ryan discuss.  Tune in and subscribe to the USC LAFB YouTube Channel!  USC Trojans Podcast Listen to our USC Football Trojans…

[whatcha-reading-today]

Favorite Books of 2025 so far (Jan-March)

I've read 71 books so between January and March 30th, which averages out to 23.6 books a month. My thoughts on some of my favorites so far appear below the cut:

Horror

Stephen Graham Jones: The Buffalo Hunter Hunter. I read this as an ARC and feel like it might be Jones' best book since The Only Good Indians. This is an epistolatory on the murder of 200+ Blackfeet Indians in the late 1800s. The writing here is so bleak and consistently cold that I could easily envision this (or maybe I just want it) as a Mike Flanagan movie/tv show.

Bauder: My Father's Name is War. A series of interconnected stories all on the brutality of war. Our author is a veteran and has a lot to say. This is so beautifully and viciously written. My copy is annotated to hell.

Fantasy & Mysteries

Madeline Miller: Galatea. I've read every Miller story, and while The Song of Achilles is my favorite, I can never get over how artfully constructed Galatea is, even at 30 pages. My biggest complaint is that I was able to find a copy of this book in a free little library that retails for $12.

Alexandra Rowland: Yield Under Great Persuasion. Look, I just loved this low stakes romance fantasy. It's funny and moving and doesn't overstay its welcome. It's easily one of the sweetest books I've read this year.

Holly Stars: Murder in the Dressing Room. Misty Divine has to solve the murder of her drag mother. This is British Murder She Wrote with drag queens. I'm so ready to read 50 of these as each of Misty's friends bring her somewhere and someone gets bumped off.

A. K. Caggiano: Villains and Virtues series. This should be referred to as sidequesting the fantasy series. While we have our A plot of Damien trying to free his father, our two leads, Damien and Amma get distracted in increasingly silly ways that make every minute ridiculous and fun. Major kudos to the narrators who use a filthy East Coast accent for the associated evil characters. I recently read Bound & Tied, which is Xander's story, which is pretty good, if a little light on stakes. I still have one more in this series on Celeste, and I don't know if I'm ready to let go!

Nora Sakavic's The All for the Game series

I read both The Sunshine Court and The Golden Raven once they were added to Hoopla this spring. No I had no idea these were coming out. Yes I want to reread the original trilogy. If you're looking for absolutely unhinged boys playing sports this is so much fun. The latest set of books follow Jean, who has been freed from the Ravens and has joined the USC Trojans. Jean's recovery is so heartbreaking to follow and I love the dual perspective from Jean and Jeremy.

Manga

Takeru Hokazono: Kagurabachi Vol 1-3. This is easily my favorite shonen series I've read in a long time. This follows Chihiro who is trying to reclaim his father's swords, all of each possess mystic powers. Chihiro is such a fun character--even though he plays as aloof, it's obvious from page 1 that he loves deeply and affectionately. The art is also incredibly well done, especially during any of the fight scenes.

Nonfiction

Tia Levings: A Well-Trained Wife. This memoir is a nightmare as Levings describes her indoctrination into Christian patriarchy and the abuse she and her children suffered. While there is so pain packed in here, I do think there's also a tremendous amount of hope and love extended towards those still trapped under religious oppression.

What's next?

I just read an absolute dud so I'm looking to reread some favorite series, probably The Captive Prince trilogy and the first three All for the Game books. I've previously listened to the audiobooks for AFTG and cannot wait for the TSC and TGR (in the previews, Jean's accent have been Lumiere quality). I'd also like to read a solid horror and picked up a copy of Clive Barker's Imajica and a collection of Harlan Ellison's stories.

Two authors I love both have books coming out in fall 2025--Hiron Ennes' The Works of Vermin, and Andrew Joseph White's first adult horror, You Weren't Meant to Be Human. I loved Ennes' Leech when I first read in back in 2022 and I'm kind of terrified by the idea of an adult horror from White. I mean look at what he does for YA??

What's your favorite book so far and what books are you looking forward to in 2025?

[thisuserdead]

The Minyard-Josten rivalry as seen through the media ~ part 1 of ???

----

*A Foxes vs Trojans game is playing on a wall screen in a TV studio. Two commentators are sat on bar stools in front of a desk. A buzzer signaling the end of the game echoes through the speakers*

Commentator 1: And there you have it people! The Foxes win the last game of the spring championship, yet again. This time with a 4 point margin against the USC Trojans.

Commentator 2: Very exciting, very exciting indeed! Palmetto has had a series of exceptional seasons these past few years. I think everyone has forgotten what they used to be like before the start of their winning streak.

Comm. 1: Indeed! People were a bit apprehensive at the start of this season however. As a reminder to our audience, this was the first season in the last five years that the Foxes have played with only one of the players from the "original" lineup from the Foxes' golden year.

Comm. 2: Fans weren't sure if the team was going to pull through. But, it seems like their captain - starting striker Neil Josten - was able to push the team to its full potential this season.

Comm. 1: It's also Josten's very last season with the Foxes. Rumor has it, he's already gotten several offers from pro teams all over the country. We'll have to wait and see who he decides to sign off with.

Comm. 2: It looks like the team is just as excited about the win as we are. Let's replay the moment right after the buzzer while the players shake hands.

*A split wall screen shows the players of both teams lining up for the final handshake on the right side while the left side shows the Foxes huddling around a very tired but happy looking Neil. It almost looks like he's being raised off the ground with the force of their joy.*

Comm. 2: Well, that's it for now folks! Stick around for the after game interviews. We'll be back in just a couple of minutes.

*Transmission is interrupted by clips and highlights from the game.*

-----

*Youtube video buffers before the noise of a crowded make-shift conference room starts. The camera is pointed at a long table with two orange clad athletes and their coach seated behind it.*

Wymack: Alright everyone, on with the questions!

Reporter 1: To Neil Josten, with you leaving there will be an open spot for captain, has it already been decided who is going to fill it?

Neil: Our current fourth-year-senior vice captain has already been selected to step up into the captain position.

Robin: As for the newly-opened vice captain position, that one will be filled by yours truly!

Neil: *nods, visibly proud*

Reporter 2: Neil, how did you manage to keep the team together now that there's a whole new generation of foxes?

Neil: Well, I have Dan to thank for lending me her infinite wisdom...and Kevin for his very public monday morning calls where he tells the team everything they did wrong during friday's game.

Robin: He is very motivational. Makes you want to do the exact opposite of what he says.

Wymack: *undefined grumbling*

*The reporters go through some more questions about the future of the Foxes. Most are answered by Robin or Wymack. For once Neil looks like he's content to just sit back and listen.

The last question of the night however is veered back to Neil.*

Reporter n: Neil, what was it like playing a whole season without Andrew Minyard? You two seemed close by all accounts.

Neil: *after a moment, a mischievious grin on his face* Who?

Robin: HAH

Reporter n: *caught off guard* uhh, your former teammate-

Neil: Hmm, does not ring any bells. Well- *cuts the reporters off from further prying* looks like out time is up.

*The three people sitting behind the table get up and walk towards their respective locker rooms and to the lounge in Wymack's case.

Video stops.*

Video Description: Neil Josten, Robin Cross and Coach David Wymack answer burning questions at the post-game conference

Date: XX/XX/XXXX

358 493 views

Comments:

@ exyneilno1fanxxx: great game! And even better interview. Can't wait to see who Neil signs with!!! xx <3

@ wildinwithdan: Always great to see my fave get mentioned!

@ kevsqueen22: is this the start of a minyard-josten rivalry? *thinking face on* See other 3k replies @ jostyard103: @ kevsqueen22 I'm calling it now, they're in a super secret relationship

-----

Note: Thanks for reading! TBC when I can, I'm thinking of possibly making this multimedial.

[lboogie1906]

Eric Aldwin Bellinger Jr. (March 27, 1984) is a singer and songwriter. He began songwriting in 2010, and his co-writing credits include “Lemme See” by Usher, “New Flame” by Chris Brown, “You Don’t Know” by Tank, “Right Here” by Justin Bieber, and “Disrespectful” by Trey Songz. He won a Grammy in the category of Best R&B Album for his contribution to Chris Brown’s album F.A.M.E. He renewed focus on his recording career and released his debut album, The Rebirth in February of that year. He released two extended plays with 300 Entertainment, Eric B for President: Term 1in 2016, and Eric B for President: Term 2 in 2017.

He grew up in Los Angeles but attended schools in the Norwalk/Santa Fe Springs area, where he met his future manager Nieman Johnson. He is the grandson of Jackson 5 songwriter Bobby Day.

He had earned a football scholarship to USC but rejected the offer to record and tour with R&B group AKNU. He first co-wrote for pop acts such as Selena Gomez and the Scene, Jacob Latimore, and Big Time Rush. He contributed to the song “Death Penalty” on The Game’s mixtape California Republic. His connection with The Game led to him writing and featuring on several songs off The Game’s album The Documentary 2, for which he received greater recognition and signed a publishing deal with Sony ATV.

He released a three-part series of mixtapes: Born II Sing Vol. 1, Born II Sing Vol. 2, and Born II Sing Vol. 3. He released his debut studio album, The Rebirth as a double album. The Rebirth peaked at #23 on the US R&B/Hip Hop charts, and #15 on the US R&B chart, and entered the Heatseekers Albums chart.

In May 2022, he announced his publishing deal with Roc Nation. It was announced that he performs the theme song of the Sesame Street spinoff series Mecha Builders. His album “New Light” (2021) received a nomination for Best Progressive R&B Album at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards.

He married La’Myia Good (2015). They have two sons. He is the brother-in-law of Meagan Good. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence

[gameshowquickies]

TPiR Quickcap: 🍀ST. PATRICK'S DAY 2025🍀 -- 🏫SPRING BREAK SPECIAL🏫

First Four students: Ethan Frankin (Berklee College of Music), Britney McDonald (Azusa Pacific), Neriah Braziel (Dallas), Jacob Null (USC) Switch?: Neriah (education major at Baldwin College) ($1,777) makes the right decision to switch and win two great trips (GT: $28,194) Next: Gavin Gershad (Princeton) Dice Game: Ethan (music performance major) ($2,517) makes good rolls to win the Toyota…

[redpoint-columb]

Redpoint Columbia in Columbia, SC

Redpoint Columbia has notably luxurious apartments near USC location these days. Well, it’s the reason many people find it easier to discover a perfect living space. In other words, Redpoint Columbia stands out for its luxurious apartments near the University of South Carolina, offering a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. These upscale residences are designed to cater to the needs of students and professionals alike, providing an unparalleled living experience. Lastly, the modern amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, resort-style pool, and stylish communal spaces, make it an attractive choice for those seeking both relaxation and an active lifestyle.

Columbia, SC

At the present time, looking for pre-scheduled events is essential to enjoy your next vacation. As such, there are future events in Columbia, SC area, that are posted online. First, there will be Women's task force workshop this coming Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at around 9:00 AM, at The Britt Event Center. In addition, the free event named 2025 Spring Ring Ceremony is scheduled on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at around 11:00 AM, at The Historic Horseshoe. Lastly, you can also opt to attend the South Carolina Regional Rally on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at around 9:00 AM, at Central Energy.

Soda City Market

The Soda City Market in Columbia, SC, has been popular for many years, drawing locals and tourists alike with its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings. Situated on Main Street, this bustling market transforms the area every Saturday into a lively hub of activity. Visitors can explore a wide variety of stalls featuring fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious street food from local vendors. The market also showcases live music and entertainment, creating a festive environment that celebrates the community's creativity and culture. Its commitment to supporting local businesses and artisans makes it a beloved destination, fostering connections and enriching the local economy.

Columbia Fireflies invite fans to audition to sing the National Anthem at Segra Park

There are several news reports in Columbia, SC area nowadays. In a recent news article, it was reported that the Columbia Fireflies has announced that fans are invited to audition live to perform the National Anthem in 2025. Aside from that, it was mentioned in the news that the fireflies say they are seeking singers and musicians of all ages to perform The Star-Spangled Banner before Fireflies home games this upcoming season. Furthermore, the auditions will be held on designated days in March, and soloists and groups are both encouraged to audition. Finally, the auditions are held by reservation only.

Link to map

Soda City Market 1300-1700 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201, United States Head west on Lady St toward Main St 0.1 mi Turn left onto Assembly St 1.7 mi Turn right onto Rosewood Dr 0.4 mi Turn left onto SC-48 E/Bluff Rd Pass by Bojangles (on the left in 0.6 mi) 2.2 mi Turn left onto Southern Dr 0.2 mi At the traffic circle, take the 1st exit Destination will be on the left 135 ft Redpoint Columbia 1050 Southern Dr, Columbia, SC 29201, United States

[calgymnasticsclub]

SPRING 2024 ANNOUNCEMENTS!!

Hi Flippers and Hopeful Future Flippers!

We're excited to get to know you all! Free trial will run Monday, 1/27 - Thursday, 2/6 on Mon/Wed/Thurs. You may come any number of days you’d like!

IMPORTANT NOTE: Carpool during free trial will meet at 7:45pm, by the fountain across from Caffe Strada!

PRACTICE:

DAYS: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday (you choose when/how often you come!)

TIME: 8:30pm-10:30 pm

LOCATION: Ultimate Sports Connection (1150 Concord Ave Ste 150, Concord, CA 94520)

DISCORD LINK (MAIN COMMUNICATION FOR CLUB):

*After you join, click on the pop-up “You must complete a few more steps before you can talk” Then click agree and done and you will have access to the rest of the channels!*

WHAT TO DO BEFORE COMING TO PRACTICE:

Fill out all these forms:

Vaccination form

Sign code of conduct

Create an Ultimate Sports Connection (USC) account

Link to sign up

Register yourself as a parent/guardian first, and then add yourself as a student

IF PARTICIPATING IN CARPOOL:

Use this link to sign up.

Drivers: Fill out your information and availability in the Drivers tab before the afternoon on the day of practice.

Riders: Sign up for waitlist slots in the Riders tab before the afternoon on the day of practice.

Venmo any dues @CalGymAlumni, or calclubgymnastics@gmail.com via PayPal.

No dues have to be paid unless you are participating in the club’s organized carpool system.

Carpool riders: $20 for 6 practices, $12 for 3 practices, or $5 for one practice.

Carpool drivers will be compensated $5 per round trip.

All information can also be found in Info Sheets as well as the Discord.

FREE TRIAL INFORMATION:

We will be having a free trial from Monday 1/27 - Thursday 2/6 for the spring semester where you can come drop-in to practice for free!! To prepare for free trial:

Double-check the Info Sheets to make sure everything is completed before coming to practice. 

Read the rest of the email for information about upcoming free trial socials!

If participating in carpool, make sure to meet by the fountain across from Cafe Strada at 7:45 pm the day of practice.

Come to practice with comfortable workout clothes and a water bottle, and be prepared to have a good time :)

Free Trial Social Dates:

Sunday, Jan 26 at 2pm: Cal vs. Clemson Gymnastics Meet at Haas Pavilion

Friday, Jan. 31: Boba social at ShareTea at 4pm, PLUS flight buying/info meeting for nationals at 6pm (see nationals email for more information + zoom link)

Wednesday, Feb. 5: Baking/board game social, more info coming soon!

All Club Meeting

Friday, Feb. 7 at 6pm: All-Club Meeting, location tbd and zoom link to come!! Also going to the Cal vs. Stanford meet at 7pm :)

Dues:

SPIRIT OF THE FLAME MEET REQUIREMENT

We require our long-term members (whether fee or volunteer based) work one four hour shift at "Spirit of the Flame," a meet hosted by our gym every March. Drop-in members are not required to attend this meet.

*This year, this is Friday, February 28, to Sunday, March 2. 

If you are a volunteer member, the four hours will not count toward your yearly volunteer requirement. You may work up to eight additional hours, though, toward the volunteer requirement. That is twelve total, with eight max toward the requirement, and four required.

CARPOOL:

SEMESTER DUES: $90 per semester if you are a rider participating in carpool 

*if you paid carpool during free trial, it gets prorated towards the $90 for that semester

DRIVER: if you are a driver, you get compensated $5 per official carpool ride.

PICKUP LOCATION: the fountain across from Cafe Strada @ 7:45pm

DROP-OFF LOCATION: rider’s residence

Hope to see you all there :)

[dhart4214]

USC TROJAN FOOTBALL: Our 2024 Season Preview & Predictions

USC players during the 20204 Spring game at the Coliseum. Photo courtesy of trojanswire.usatoday.com UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA TROJANS – 137th SEASON 2023 Record: 8-5, 5-4 and tied for fourth place in the Pac-12 Conference Beat Louisville, 42-28, in the Holiday Bowl on December 27th Lost to UCLA, 38-20, on November 18th Lost to Notre Dame, 48-20, on October 14th Lost five of seven…

[cryptic-paw]

Walden Part 6 | Spring Fever, The End is Near!

Walden by Tracy Fullerton and the USC Game Innovation Lab 🌷

Take on the role of historical figure Henry David Thoreau as you spend a year living in Walden Woods in the 1800s. Survive and explore to gain insight into the writer's life. What will you discover? Toe Bean rating at the end!

An indie video game about exploration, meditation, American history, and Henry David Thoreau.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1011700/Walden_a_game/

🎮🕹🎮🕹🎮🕹🎮🕹🎮🕹🎮🕹🎮🕹🎮🕹🎮🕹🎮🕹🎮🕹🎮🕹🎮🕹🎮🕹

Are you an indie game dev who wants me to play and rate your game? Feel free to send me a message at crypticpaw@gmail.com or through my website! Let's help get you out there and improve your game design skills!

[lafbnetwork]

Surprising Announcement Regarding USC Trojans Spring Game

The USC Trojans will begin their Spring Practices very shortly, and typically those practices are capped off by a Spring Game at the Coliseum for fans to watch, in person or on television. LAFB is working to confirm, but according to Antonio Morales of The Athletic, “USC has decided not to host a traditional spring game this…

[losangeles-ca-living]

Pet-Friendly Apartments in Downtown LA

The pet-friendly apartments in downtown LA are probably what you need if you love your furry friend to live with you. This promotes a healthy and active lifestyle for pet owners and furry friends. Residents enjoy companionship and emotional support and connect with like-minded individuals through dog parks, pet-friendly stores, and events at Trademark Apartments. Owning pets can improve mood and health, with studies showing benefits like lowering blood pressure, reducing stress, and increasing physical activity. That's why this apartment is open for your furry friends. Whether you prefer a one-bedroom or two-bedroom apartment home, the Trademark Apartments has everything for you. For inquiries, call 833-363-5885.

Los Angeles, CA, is vibrant and diverse

Los Angeles is a bustling metropolis famous for its rich cultural diversity and vibrant community. The city is a hub of innovation and creativity, with a well-designed sustainability plan that ensures its continued growth and influence for many years. Housing some of the world's top-ranked universities, such as Cal Tech, UCLA, and USC, Los Angeles has a reputation for producing some of the world's most successful and highly skilled graduates. Also, this city offers a lot of job opportunities in various industries, including entertainment, technology, finance, and healthcare, making it an ideal place to explore new career paths. With its world-class attractions and amenities, including stunning beaches, renowned museums, and top-rated restaurants, Los Angeles is a top destination for people worldwide.

Griffith Park

Griffith Park offers diverse activities for all ages and interests, catering to various types of park adventurers. Nature lovers can enjoy over 53 miles of hiking trails; the Griffith Observatory offers telescopes, exhibits, and planetarium shows, while picnics provide a serene spot to enjoy nature's sounds. For thrill-seekers, the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round offers classic amusement park experiences with hand-painted animals and lively music. Pony Rides and bikes can be rented for leisurely exploration. Culture enthusiasts can explore the Autry Museum of the American West, Bronson Caves, and Shakespeare Garden. For relaxation seekers, the Fern Dell offers tranquility in a lush canyon, while the Griffith Park Rose Garden offers a serene garden with over 5,000 rose bushes. Sunbathe in the meadows offers fresh air and panoramic views. There is a lot to do. 

Top Sports Bars in Los Angeles for the Big Game on Feb. 11

Los Angeles is gearing up for the big game on Feb. 11, with several sports bars offering various options to watch the game. Elbow Room in Hollywood, which opened in 2018, offers New York-style pies and begins at 10 a.m. on Sundays for football. 33 Taps in Silver Lake offers 30 beers on tap and big-screen TVs, with a menu featuring pub-grub standbys like buffalo wings in both meaty and vegan forms. Barney's Beanery, a WeHo staple for over 100 years, has a roadhouse decor and classic menus. Sonny McLean's, a Boston-centric bar, is known for its big sports showdowns. The Rustic Inn in Los Feliz has overstuffed red booths, dim lighting, and generous pours, with owners claiming they have the best wings in LA. 

Link to maps

Griffith Park 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States Get on US-101 S/Hollywood Fwy from N Western Ave, Franklin Ave and N Van Ness Ave 4 min (1.2 mi) Take the 6th St exit from CA-110 12 min (5.4 mi) Continue on 4th St. Drive to S Hill St 2 min (0.6 mi) Trademark Apartments 437 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

[lboogie1906]

Eric Aldwin Bellinger Jr. (born March 27, 1984) is a singer and songwriter. He began songwriting in 2010, and his co-writing credits include “Lemme See” by Usher, “New Flame” by Chris Brown, “You Don’t Know” by Tank, “Right Here” by Justin Bieber, and “Disrespectful” by Trey Songz. He won a Grammy in the category of Best R&B Album for his contribution to Chris Brown’s album F.A.M.E. He renewed focus on his recording career and released his debut album, The Rebirth in February of that year. He released two extended plays with 300 Entertainment, Eric B for President: Term 1in 2016, and Eric B for President: Term 2 in 2017.

He grew up in Los Angeles but attended schools in the Norwalk/Santa Fe Springs area, where he met his future manager Nieman Johnson. He is the grandson of Jackson 5 songwriter Bobby Day.

He had earned a football scholarship to USC but rejected the offer to record and tour with R&B group AKNU. He first co-wrote for pop acts such as Selena Gomez and the Scene, Jacob Latimore, and Big Time Rush. He contributed to the song “Death Penalty” on The Game’s mixtape California Republic. His connection with The Game led to him writing and featuring on several songs off The Game’s album The Documentary 2, for which he received greater recognition and signed a publishing deal with Sony ATV.

He released a three-part series of mixtapes: Born II Sing Vol. 1, Born II Sing Vol. 2, and Born II Sing Vol. 3. He released his debut studio album, The Rebirth as a double album. The Rebirth peaked at #23 on the US R&B/Hip Hop charts, and #15 on the US R&B chart, and entered the Heatseekers Albums chart.

In May 2022, he announced his publishing deal with Roc Nation. It was announced that he performs the theme song of the Sesame Street spinoff series Mecha Builders. His album “New Light” (2021) received a nomination for Best Progressive R&B Album at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards.

He married La’Myia Good (2015). They have two sons. He is the brother-in-law of Meagan Good. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence

[my-smial]

Okay! In my extremely thorough research (<-searching the books for keywords), I think every team that is mentioned facing Palmetto in the fall season is from a fake university. This means we have very little information, and frankly it would make sense to just make a new, fictional conference for all of these new universities if that's how you want to do it. The only snafu is that they're repeatedly referred to as "the southeast," which makes sense given that the South Eastern Conference is a real conference.

tl;dr: I'm inclined to put the Foxes in the SEC, Edgar Allen in AmEast pre-transfer, and the Trojans in the PAC-10 (this one is unquestionable, because USC is a real university)

The only clue we have is when Wymack reads off the playoffs, in which he claims that the first round is "southeast versus southwest," and puts University of Texas in southwest. At the time UT was in the Big 12, so we know that Palmetto is not. Interestingly, the Big 12 also has West Virginia University, so maybe that's where Edgar Allen was before they transferred.

(this same segment also claims they're facing Arkansas and writes the acronym as SUA; Southern Arkansas University is SAU, and also they're DII, a lower rank than the Foxes, and wouldn't be facing them anyway. So we're gonna ignore that and assume it's another fake university)

We can also assume that the Foxes and the Binghamton Bearcats are not in the same conference, so that rules out AmEast. This one could potentially also hold Edgar Allen pre-transfer though; that would be reasonable geographically and would be most likely to justify the "Ravens are coming south" comment.

It seems like Penn State, the Trojans, and the Ravens are all different conferences, because it was possible for them to "play each other in odds" during the spring matches. Penn State is Big 10, so this rules out the Big 10 for Edgar Allen. This puts the big 3 in Big 10, Pac-12, and AmEast or Big 12, which would fairly sensible for three massive teams that dominate their conferences and then play each other in playoffs.

Finally, in 2007, PAC-12 was actually PAC-10. It did theoretically contain USC, Arizona, and Oregon, but the timeline is slightly wrong - Utah wouldn't join until 2011, when PAC-10 grew to PAC-12, and thus it would be slightly odd for the Trojans to be playing them in a normal season game. Boise was in the PAC-10 at the time but left when Utah joined, in 2011. The White Ridge Bobcats are fake, so they give no information on the western conferences.

Some notes:

Because Football is the dominant sport bar none, a lot of this information is specific to football. I kinda tend to assume that in AFTG, football is smaller and Exy has replaced it as the dominant American sport, but if you don't make that assumption the conferences could change around a little. It's probably more fair to fit exy with collegiate basketball, honestly - big, but not football.

This is all specific to collegiate sports - professional teams have a totally different system that is less subdivided. Football, for instance, is just split into two big non-regional conferences that are then subdivided into north, east, south, and west fairly simply. Pro exy teams, which are mentioned a handful of times, wouldn't follow the NCAA system.

It does seem common for universities to have specific sports in a random alternative conference; a university like Edgar Allen could conceivably have everything else in a different conference than their one powerhouse exy team.

Ignore all the numbers. The Big 10 hasn't had 10 members in decades, and the Pac 12 currently has 2 members. The numbers are not useful in calculating which teams are there.

There you go!

Hi, the person "who is writing down and locating all the teams for a fanfiction they have in mind but can't continue cause they love worldbuilding too much and refuses to move on until she gets every team" is here.

I'm still fighting for my life with the Exy Teams and their locations. Was able to locate and relocate different teams thanks to a couple peoples help. I've also realized that I accidentally put Columbia Dragons in Colorado when it should've either been in Washington DC or South Carolina (which isn't possible unless USC Columbia and Columbia Dragons are the same team since USC Columbia was noted to be the only other team in South Carolina, so I put Columbia Dragons as a Washington DC team)

Found out through a map which I would've found useful yesterday that Virginia and West Virginia should've technically been part of the Southeastern (or technically, South) District but were somehow put in Northeast. Which, fair, Northeast is really small.

Don't know if there will be a Midwest District, but I'm adding states to there anyways.

And also, successfully got my 14 Southeastern Teams that is including the Ravens.

And then I remember this line:

And I started thinking. Wtf does that have to do with transferring to another district?

At first I thought, oh, they're the only D1 Exy Team there but then the it's mentioned that they're the only team in Western Virginia, not the Northeast (Penn State is there, duh me) and like... wtf does that have to do with their transfer????

Sports fans help me, Americans, also help me.

Map I used for the Sport Districts:

[bongaboi]

Washington: 2022 Alamo Bowl Champions

No. 12 Washington knocked off No. 20 Texas 27-20 in the Alamo Bowl to get its first 11-win season since 2016.

The Huskies weren’t troubled by the Longhorns for much of the game. UW took a 17-point lead early in the fourth quarter thanks to a TD pass from Michael Penix Jr. to Jalen McMillan. Texas cut the lead to seven with 1:40 to go, and got the ball back with a chance for a potential game-winning TD and two-point conversion with 31 seconds left. But the last-ditch drive with no timeouts remaining didn't get a first down.

The win means Washington finishes the season at 11-2 in Kalen DeBoer’s first season as head coach. Washington fired Jimmy Lake nine games into a tumultuous 2021 season and finished the season at 4-8. It hired DeBoer from Fresno State and the former Indiana offensive coordinator quickly landed the former Indiana QB Penix as a transfer.

That move paid off as Penix was one of the nation’s most productive passers in 2022 and the Huskies won seven more games than they did a season ago. Washington made one of the biggest improvements of any team at the top level of college football in 2022 and is well-positioned to be a contender in the Pac-12 again next season.

Penix will be back in 2023 as the Pac-12 will boast one of the strongest quarterback groups in college football. Heisman winner Caleb Williams is returning for USC while Oregon’s Bo Nix is coming back along with Washington State’s Cam Ward. Oregon State landed Clemson QB D.J. Uiagalelei, former Notre Dame QB Drew Pyne is transferring to Arizona State and Kent State QB Collin Schlee is transferring to UCLA.

Texas, meanwhile, finishes the season 8-5. The Longhorns entered the game without running backs Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson among other transfers and NFL draft opt outs. That allowed players like freshman Jonathan Brooks to get playing time and Brooks scored two TDs.

The Alamo Bowl might have also been the last game of the pre-Arch Manning era at Texas. QB Quinn Ewers didn’t have a terrible game by any means — his stats would look a lot better if it wasn’t for drops on back-to-back plays in the third quarter by star receiver Xavier Worthy — but the Longhorns will have the highest-profile QB competition in college football over the spring and summer thanks to Manning’s presence.

Manning signed with Texas earlier in December and plans to be an early enrollee. That will allow him to practice this spring and potentially get the chance to start as a true freshman. Or if Ewers plays well like he has flashed at times in 2022, it’s very possible that he could keep the starting job for his second season with the Longhorns.

[valentinax]

[ VALENTINA ALVAREZ.   30.   CIS WOMAN.   SHE / HER ]  is here!   They’ve lived in Silver Lake for  [ 12 YEARS ]  and are originally from  [ PASADENA,  CA ].   They are a  [ BARTENDER AT DUNGEON & YOGA INSTRUCTOR AT 24/7 FITNESS ]  and in their downtime love  [ PLAYING VIDEO GAMES ]  and  [ UPCYCLING CLOTHING ].   They look a lot like  [ EMERAUDE TOUBIA ]  and live  [ IN OASIS APTS ].

content warnings:  mentions of alcohol and underage drinking,  pregnancy and labor,  allusions to nsfw content.

timeline.

december 10, 1990  --  valentina elena maroun is born.   half-sister to four older brothers,  her biological father misses her birth and is almost entirely absent throughout valentina’s youth.

1990 to 2008  --  valentina spends her formative years in pasadena,  ca with her family.   during this period,  her mother gets back with her previously separated husband  ( valentina’s brothers’ father )  for good.   valentina considers this man to be her real dad,  and at the age of 9 valentina’s surname is changed to his:  alvarez,  matching the rest of their family.   upon her high school graduation at 17 years old,  she prepares to move to silver lake with two of her friends:  they’re both to attend usc,  while valentina attends ucla on a partial athletic scholarship for softball.

2008 to 2010  --  spends her first two years of college doing exactly what most expect:  going out with friends,  experimenting,  drinking whatever she can get her hands on,  and so on and so forth.   she still takes her studies and softball seriously,  and works part-time at paco’s tacos in silver lake during this time.

2010 to 2011  --  falls pregnant at 19 and gives birth to her daughter,  rosa torres,  shortly after turning 20.   has taken the fall and spring semesters of this school year off to prepare for her daughter’s birth,  as well as to be home during rosa’s infancy.   has a strenuous,  lengthy and difficult labor.   it’s under pressure from her parents that valentina pursues a romantic relationship with rosa’s father,  lucas torres,  for rosa’s sake.  by 2012 however,  they come to agree a platonic relationship coparenting works best for everyone involved.

2011 to 2014  --  moves in with her brother in santa monica,  bringing rosa along with her,  to return to school and cut her commute in half.   has lost her athletic scholarship,  yet earns a partial academic one.   valentina relies heavily on family to help out with rosa during this period and has reached out to her biological father for financial aid.   their relationship is strained,  but on the mend.   upon her graduation,  valentina gets a job as a server at maria sol on the santa monica pier.

2015 to 2016  --  though valentina doesn’t want to,  she relents to moving back home so rosa can be closer to her father.   valentina reluctantly moves back in with her parents and enters a job tending bar at dungeon.

2016 to 2018  --  unable to stand living at home,  valentina convinces another one of her brothers to let her move in with him in silver lake.   gets a second job as a yoga instructor at 24/7 fitness.   she cuts back her hours at the club when in 2018,  she manages to land yet another job:  as a project-based writer for buzzfeed reviewing and researching sex toys.   this quickly leads to her brother encouraging  ( read:  telling )  her to move out when he’s put in the uncomfortable position of,  to put it as cleanly as possible,  hearing her working.

2018 to 2021  --  valentina finally moves out into a three bedroom apartment at the oasis with long-time friend,  helena,  for a roommate.   still works part-time at dungeon with hopes to quit soon,  and continues to teach yoga and contribute to buzzfeed.

personality traits.

alluring,  assertive,  vehement  --  valentina is a very passionate person and this translates into her sensuality.   she’s never really been afraid to go after the things she wants,  whether it’s in her personal or professional life.  in personal relationships,  valentina isn’t ashamed to make the first move and can be quite flirty at times.   unfortunately,  valentina has yet to be in a relationship that’s lasted longer than a year or two.   while she does want to settle down,  she can be fickle and unsure of what  ( or who )  she wants.

candid,  effervescent,  resilient  --  in general,  valentina is a person who values honesty and respects people who tell the truth when it’s most difficult.   her keen attitude on brutal honesty doesn’t,  however,  get in the way of her easygoing nature:  it’s not hard to get along with her and she’s incredibly outspoken and outgoing.   of course,  this may rub people the wrong way at times.

egocentric,  erratic,  frivolous  --  it may or may not be obvious that valentina has a penchant for changing her mind.   she does her best to think of others first,  especially so when it comes to her daughter,  but she’s entirely susceptible to her own whims.   she’s impulsive and seems to lack purpose.   and,  ultimately,  it scares her to consider that she’s never known what she wants to do with her life:  so she doesn’t stop to think.

recalcitrant,  resentful,  rigid  --  valentina is a fan of grudges.   she tends to hers like pets.   she’s often stubborn and unwavering and entirely unwilling to admit when she’s in the wrong.   fully the type to never forgive,  never forget,  but just move on.   and perhaps it comes from being the youngest,  but she’s also known for being pouty and upset when things don’t go her way.

miscellaneous headcanons.

for about 2 years beginning when she was 25,  valentina was apart of a roller derby team in los angeles.   given that the pronunciation of her nickname valé sounds so close to valley,  she quickly adopted valley hurl as her derby name.   she eventually quit due to no longer having the time to attend practices.

she still roller skates to this day and,  a year ago,  blew up on tiktok  ( along with her roommate,  the one who initially put her on to skating )  when she posted a video of herself skating and dancing down the street.   she’s since deleted previous videos and curated her entire tiktok feed to focus solely on her roller skating.

her social media totals:  1.8m tiktok followers,  178k instagram followers,  2k twitter followers.   most of these were gained within the past year and she’s certainly not famous by any means,  though she has been able to make money off sponsored ads on her instagram.

she’s very into fitness!   she played soccer growing up and still loves a good game of softball,  she loves running,  taking various fitness classes,  etc.   and on the mention of sports,  she also loves going to dodger games and watching sunday night football.

has considered streaming on twitch but ultimately decided she doesn’t have the time to commit to that sort of endeavor.   also has considered starting a podcast.   sort of a jack of all trades,  master of none.

case in point:  got into upcycling clothes a few years ago.   as a result,  got into sewing and began to go thrifting more frequently.   briefly sold stuff on depop before quitting that endeavor a month or so into it  --  now she mainly upcycles pieces for herself and her friends,  as gifts for people,  etc.

has a few tattoos  ( tbd )  that are easy to cover up and generally only visible when she’s wearing certain clothing.   her mother and grandparents were disappointed when they found out but are okay with them now.

is actually a pretty damn good singer!   her entire family is.   at family parties,  you’ll often catch them getting into karaoke or clearing out room somewhere for a dance floor.   it’s not unusual for them to egg you on to join in.

on that note,  a big part of valentina’s enjoyment comes from this type of fun.   even since having a child she’s never necessarily cut back on going out  --  whether it’s to nightclubs,  dive bars,  karaoke nights,  concerts,  anything  --  and has made some technically irresponsible choices.   still makes them to this day.   she’s not perfect by any means.   she’s learned to be more conscientious over the past decade,  however.

ultimately,  valentina struggles with motherhood:  she does the best she can and although her parents are great people,  she wants to make different choices than them.   there’s a lot to be said about how she dealt with parenthood at first and how she still struggles with it now,  but the short version literally is this:  she’s trying.

is afraid of the dark...   like very.   checks under the bed and in the closet at night to this day.   likely stems from the various pranks her brothers played on her as a kid.

currently does not eat noodles.   after a conversation with her daughter about how noodles look like worms,  valentina agreed to abstain from eating them out of solidarity.   is hoping her daughter will get over this aversion soon because valentina loves noodles.