Black Sport Water

PEMBROKE - The players trickle out of the locker room, gliding across the milky surface of Hobomock Arena. As they cavort with teammates, their coaches gather at center ice to discuss the morning's practice.The scene is played out at dozens of other rinks on a frigid Saturday morning: Kids with boundless energy, watched by proud parents, up at dawn to indulge a passion for hockey.But what is unique about the Boston Bear Cubs is that this team is composed of special needs children. While their needs are special, their dreams are common: play a little hockey and have a lot of fun. Starting outJohn Quill lives and breathes the sport. The 37-year-old Norwell resident played at North Quincy High, still plays in a men's league, and coaches his 11-year-old daughter Megan's South Shore Seahawks team.Like other hockey parents, John and his wife, Julie, wanted to pass their love of the game to their three children.But there was a hurdle: John's son Sean, 10, is autistic.

Sports Briefs: Michael Vick starting prison time early

RICHMOND, Va. — Michael Vick got a head start on a possible long prison stretch, surrendering three weeks before he was to be sentenced for his involvement in a bloody dogfighting ring.The disgraced Atlanta Falcons quarterback surrendered to U.S. marshals in what his lawyer said was another step in his public repentance."From the beginning, Mr. Vick has accepted responsibility for his actions, and his self-surrender further demonstrates that acceptance," Billy Martin said in a statement. "Michael wants to again apologize to everyone who has been hurt in this matter, and he thanks all of the people who have offered him and his family prayers and support during this time."Vick pleaded guilty in August to a federal dogfighting conspiracy charge after his three co-defendants pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with authorities.Federal sentencing guidelines suggest he could expect to serve a year to 18 months, but Vick, who has admitted bankrolling the Bad Newz Kennels, faces a maximum of five years in prison.He’s scheduled to be sentenced Dec.

Vitale, McNeely lead Huskies' resurgence

Northeastern is nearly two months ahead of last season's pace in the wins column. The No. 16 Huskies have won six games, a feat they didn't accomplish last season until Jan. 26.

The Huskies (6-4-1, 6-3-1 Hockey East) beat No. 19 Boston College (3-4-5, 2-3-4 Hockey East) in overtime Friday night, padding their conference lead to three points. Senior Jimmy Russo scored his first goal of the season with four seconds remaining in the extra period. It was the second overtime goal of his career.

So far in the season, however, Russo's younger teammates are outplaying him. Standout junior forward Joe Vitale has a team-leading 13 points on the season (five goals, eight assists), all of which came in Hockey East play.

Along with Vitale, freshman forward Tyler McNeely has a share of the team lead with five goals.

FC Thun soccer players charged of having sex with minor

Six current and three former FC Thun soccer players accused of having sexual relations with a minor.

Grass-roots program for a blossoming sport

LOWELL -- Up until two decades ago, Peter Pinto was a hockey referee who didn't know very much about lacrosse.

But that changed in a hurry once Pinto had an opportunity to officiate a few lacrosse games.

"I found lacrosse through hockey," said Pinto, 52, who grew up in Somerville. "I started officiating lacrosse about 20 years ago and the sport became an instant addiction. I no longer officiate hockey.

"Lacrosse is such a great game to watch. It's quick. It's a tough sport. The most impressive thing about the sport is the ball movement. Watching the way players pass the ball. To be running as fast as you can and zip the ball while on the move to a teammate like it's a laser is really something to see."

Eventually, officiating lacrosse games turned into a labor love, one that Pinto wanted to share with as many young players as possible.

Owls football has local flavor

Three Berkshire County athletes were members of the Westfield State football team this fall. They are junior Shane Parrott of Pittsfield (Taconic), junior Joe Salvatore of Dalton (Wahconah) and freshman Nick Panetti of Pittsfield (Pittsfield).

Parrott is a 6-foot-3, 305 pound lineman.

"Shane was our starting offensive tackle who showed great improvement over the last two years," coach Steve Marino said. "He will be a three-year starter next year and anchor a very experienced offensive line."

Salvatore, a 6-foot, 270-pounder, is also a member of that offensive line.

"Joe won the starting guard job this year because of his toughness and enthusiasm," Marino said. "He also played in the backfield in our goal line package."

Panetti, a 6-foot, 256-pound lineman, saw action as a backup.