Here are 25 players to watch during the 2026 CIAC boys soccer season:
Jonathan Adadjo, Tolland, Sr., F: Was the 2024 Class M championship MVP, and followed that up with a 2025 season in which he scored 17 goals with five ******* ists, helping to lead Tolland to a second straight state ******* le.
Tyson Brenes, Wolcott, Sr., F: Was CSCA All-State and an All-NVL first-team selection last year after scoring 29 goals with 12 ******* ists as a junior. His 55 career goals are five away from the Wolcott record.
Brendan Burney, Tolland, Sr., M:
A two-time Class M champion, Burney scored five goals and ******* isted on four more last year, but head coach Michael Caccomo said the four-year starter is expected to step into a larger role this year and could be a game-changer.

#scored

The London Company, an investment management company, released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter for its "Small-Mid Cap Strategy." The letter can be downloaded here. U.S. equities rebounded sharply in Q2, with the Russell 3000 gaining 15.4%, supported by AI infrastructure spending, strong earnings, and easing Middle East tensions. Technology led the rally as semiconductors recovered, while Energy and defensive sectors lagged. The portfolio returned 12.1% gross and 11.8% net compared with a 20.3% gain in the Russell 2500 Index. Stock selection weighed on relative performance, as high-beta and high-volatility stocks dominated returns while Quality remained weak, although results improved in June as market participation broadened. Looking ahead, resilient earnings and AI productivity support a constructive outlook, but negative hyperscaler cash flow, sticky inflation, geopolitical risks, index concentration, and elevated valuations warrant caution. The strategy continues to emphasize quality, downside protection, and active management. Additionally, reviewing the Fund's top five holdings could also highlight its best ideas for 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, London Company SMID Cap Strategy highlighted Churchill Downs Incorporated (NASDAQ:CHDN). Churchill Downs Incorporated (NASDAQ:CHDN) operates live and historical racing entertainment venues, online wagering businesses, and regional casino gaming properties in the United States. On August 26, 2026, Churchill Downs Incorporated (NASDAQ:CHDN) closed at $87.57 per share. Over the past month, Credit Acceptance Corporation (NASDAQ:CACC) returned 4.40%, while its shares have declined 16.08% in the last 52 weeks. Credit Acceptance Corporation (NASDAQ:CACC) has a market capitalization of $6.10 billion.
London Company SMID Cap Strategy stated the following regarding Churchill Downs Incorporated (NASDAQ:CHDN) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Churchill Downs Incorporated (NASDAQ:CHDN) declined despite solid operating results as Derby Week growth fell slightly short of elevated investor expectations. The business continues to execute well, supported by strong Historical Racing Machine growth, improving leverage, and healthy cash flow generation. We believe the recent weakness is disconnected from the underlying fundamentals and remain confident in the company's ability to compound earnings through disciplined capital allocation, pricing power, and continued investment in its differentiated gaming and racing **** ets."

#strategy

The London Company, an investment management company, released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter for its "Small-Mid Cap Strategy." The letter can be downloaded here. U.S. equities rebounded sharply in Q2, with the Russell 3000 gaining 15.4%, supported by AI infrastructure spending, strong earnings, and easing Middle East tensions. Technology led the rally as semiconductors recovered, while Energy and defensive sectors lagged. The portfolio returned 12.1% gross and 11.8% net compared with a 20.3% gain in the Russell 2500 Index. Stock selection weighed on relative performance, as high-beta and high-volatility stocks dominated returns while Quality remained weak, although results improved in June as market participation broadened. Looking ahead, resilient earnings and AI productivity support a constructive outlook, but negative hyperscaler cash flow, sticky inflation, geopolitical risks, index concentration, and elevated valuations warrant caution. The strategy continues to emphasize quality, downside protection, and active management. Additionally, reviewing the Fund's top five holdings could also highlight its best ideas for 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, London Company SMID Cap Strategy highlighted Credit Acceptance Corporation (NASDAQ:CACC). Credit Acceptance Corporation (NASDAQ:CACC) engages in the provision of financing programs and related products and services in the United States. On August 26, 2026, Credit Acceptance Corporation (NASDAQ:CACC) closed at $593.64 per share. Over the past month, Credit Acceptance Corporation (NASDAQ:CACC) returned 8.39%, while its shares have gained 18.09% in the last 52 weeks. Credit Acceptance Corporation (NASDAQ:CACC) has a market capitalization of $6.16 billion.
London Company SMID Cap Strategy stated the following regarding Credit Acceptance Corporation (NASDAQ:CACC) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"Credit Acceptance Corporation (NASDAQ:CACC) outperformed following signs of improving credit performance, while lower fuel prices eased concerns surrounding subprime borrowers. Credit trends continue to improve, and the company remains disciplined in repurchasing shares. We believe the investment thesis remains on track as fundamentals continue to strengthen."
Credit Acceptance Corporation (NASDAQ:CACC) is not on our list of the 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. As per our database, 28 hedge fund portfolios held Credit Acceptance Corporation (NASDAQ:CACC) at the end of the second quarter which was 31 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Credit Acceptance Corporation (NASDAQ:CACC) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

#credit #cacc #company #letter

It's been reported that Celtic look to be shifting their signing policy in the wake of the disastrous and humiliating defeat in Linz, a loss which seen the club miss out on a big money bonanza. The current Celtic Board has now cost the club around £80m due to their failures in adequately strengthening the squad for the last two Champions League playoffs.
Gvidas Gineitis of Torino FC is challenged by Luca Lipani of US Sassuolo during the Serie A match between Torino FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on May 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
It's now believed that bids for long term target Gvidas Gineitis of Torino is now in the balance, due to the catastrophic failure to overcome LASK despite at one point leading 4-0 on aggregate.
Arne Engels of West Ham United is challenged by Conor Coventry of Charlton Athletic during the Sky Bet Championship 2026/27 match between West Ham United and Charlton Athletic at London Stadium on August 22, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by James Fearn/Getty Images)
The 22 year old Lithuanian international was said to be a top target of Martin O'Neill, as the veteran Irishman looks to fill the void left by Arne Engels departure to West Ham, who was under contract at Celtic yet was allowed to leave as those in the boardroom eyed the £££s on offer.

#west #sassuolo #engels

After the first matchday of Serie A, the talking points we've seen are the usual ones: refereeing decisions, the transfer market still being open, the post-match reactions where some vent by criticizing and others take little digs as a strategy.
The routine we waited for all summer, however, mustn't put us on autopilot, because something different happened: young Italians actually played. It seems unbelievable, but it's true: Mattia Liberali, Simone Lontani, Alessandro Romano (Swiss with dual citizenship), Emanuele Lulli, Alphadjo Cisse and Alessio Cacciamani took the field.
Some did so as starters, others came off the bench: for not all of them was it their absolute Serie A debut, but the wider public really discovered them just a few days ago. The comparison with the other top European leagues is still a long way off (to put it kindly), but at least we're trying: "Better something than nothing," as Gianni Brera would have said.
After an excellent pre-season with Milan and Ruben Amorim's imprimatur in a press conference, Alphadjo Cisse (without the accent, as he himself wanted to point out) made his debut at San Siro and scored the first Serie A goal of his career. He handled the ball well in traffic, pressed constantly and, above all, scored at the decisive moment.
During the summer he trained on his own in Montesilvano (Abruzzo) to get back into shape after tearing his adductor tendon, an injury that had cut short an excellent season with Aquilani's Catanzaro. Throughout July, Sassuolo and Torino wanted him on loan, but Amorim chose to keep him and throw him in. He is already repaying that faith.

#alphadjo #others #something #excellent

LAS VEGAS — From a fry bread pot roast taco created for the Kansas City Chiefs' visit to A5 Wagyu tomahawks and caviar service in premium areas, Allegiant Stadium is expanding its food and beverage lineup for the 2026 Las Vegas Raiders season.
Silver & Black Hospitality, the stadium's culinary and hospitality provider, unveiled a collection of new concessions, opponent-themed dishes, specialty ***** tails, desserts and premium offerings Tuesday. The additions follow Allegiant Stadium's second-place finishes in nationwide voting for both the AFC's Best NFL Stadium and Best NFL Stadium Food in the 2026 USA TODAY 10 Best Readers' Choice Awards.
"This year we have a lot of new and kind of fun items that we're showcasing and just continuing to elevate our food and beverage program," said Dillon Schoell, senior executive chef at Allegiant Stadium.
New featured concession items include a Fry Bread Pot Roast Taco topped with lettuce, tomato, queso fresco, salsa verde and chipotle crema; a Street Dog Torta with a Sabrett hot dog, pork belly, refried beans and avocado aioli; and a Chile Relleno Burger topped with avocado and crema. The lineup also includes a Focaccia and Lox Sandwich and Really Big Chicken & Waffles served with pickles, hot honey and chives.
Other new items available throughout the season include Buffalo Chicken Wontons, Potato Tacos, an XL Chicken Club Sandwich and a Korean Philly Cheesesteak made with shaved beef, kimchi, mozzarella, provolone, green onions and gochujang aioli.

#items

Late August is typically the most interesting point of silly season—not the most exciting, mind you, but the proximity to the new season makes every rumor and update feel more consequential. By now, all of Roma's top targets are long gone, and those who have replaced them—in this instance, Malick Fofana and/or Alessio Cacciamani—are intriguing enough to keep the club (and fans) on the hook.
The problem, as we see seemingly every year, is that negotiating for these second options is incredibly difficult, especially after Roma invested heavily in other positions. With a specific need to fill (in this case, left wing), little money to spend, and even less time to pull it off, the club has virtually no leverage in negotiations.
(Sorry, did I say this was an interesting time of year?)
According to the latest rumors, Roma has abandoned its pursuit of Fofana (which I don't believe for a second) and is instead focusing its efforts on Fenerbahçe's Jayden Oosterwolde. While the 25-year-old Dutchman can't fill the void left by Fofana, he's a handy little full-back/center-back hybrid with ample top-flight experience, including nearly 90 appearances for Fenerbahçe over the past three seasons.
Earlier today, Fabrizio Romano reported that the two clubs are working on an €18 million loan deal with an option that becomes mandatory under certain conditions. Oosterwolde may not be the most exciting name we've discussed this summer, but he would provide the club with the fourth wing-back they've pursued all summer. Additionally, his ability to play centrally could make Jan Ziolkowsi expendable, which could, in turn, generate enough capital to push the Fofana deal over the finish line.

#club #back #oosterwolde

Gvidas Gineitis of Torino FC is challenged by Luca Lipani of US Sassuolo during the Serie A match between Torino FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on May 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
The Torino midfielder has remained on Celtic's radar throughout the summer, despite recent suggestions that a deal for the 22-year-old was becoming increasingly difficult.
However, a fresh report from Italy claims the Hoops have not abandoned their interest and could return with a stronger proposal if Martin O'Neill guides his side into the Champions League phase.
That possibility has moved significantly closer following Celtic's impressive 3-0 victory over LASK at Parkhead in the first leg of their play-off.
Italian journalist Giacomo Morandin reports that the financial windfall from Champions League qualification could allow Celtic to intensify their pursuit of the Lithuania international.

#league #gvidas #luca

Gvidas Gineitis of Torino FC is challenged by Luca Lipani of US Sassuolo during the Serie A match between Torino FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on May 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
The 22-year-old has emerged as one of the Hoops' main midfield targets following Arne Engels' £22million move to West Ham United over the weekend.
However, Celtic may now have to fend off Premier League interest if they are to bring the Lithuania international to Glasgow.
According to Europacalcio, Crystal Palace have set their sights on Gineitis and could soon open negotiations over a potential move.
Torino's asking price has been reported at between £8million and £12million, while Red Bull Salzburg are also actively interested, with Danny Rohl understood to be an admirer. Anderlecht have also reportedly made their interest known.

#million #gineitis #sassuolo #interest

It's safe to say Paul Hollywood grew up on staple English foods like sticky toffee pudding, Scotch eggs, jam roly-poly, and beans on toast. And while Americans may think barbecue-less beans with a light tomato-based sauce piled on toast sounds just plain weird, many Brits are similarly perplexed by the idea of a peanut ****** er and jelly sandwich. Hollywood is one such Brit who used to think PB&J seemed like an unusual pairing — until he tried it, that is.
The renowned baker and television personality told Mashed that, while he had been curious about peanut ****** er and jelly sandwiches, having heard about them in movies, he didn't grow up with them and remained skeptical. "I was always like, 'What are you crazy? That doesn't go together,'" he said. He'd had both spreads separately before but only had them together when someone on "The Great British Bake Off" made him a peanut ****** er and jelly sandwich. Hollywood didn't fall in love with the sandwich but dubbed it "all right." At least he can now see the appeal of the beloved sweet-and-savory combination. Perhaps he'd be more fond of Ina Garten's elevated PB&J.
Read more: 10 Nostalgic Sandwich Chains That Are Slowly Being Forgotten
Matthew Ashmore/Shutterstock
So, peanut ****** er and jelly didn't wow Paul Hollywood. But one sandwich the "Bake Off" judge does love is an egg and cress, another traditional British favorite often served with afternoon tea. The simple sando features creamy egg salad and peppery watercress nestled between slices of soft bread. But there's one thing he thinks his favorite sandwich should have in common with the average American first-grader's PB&J. In a short video shared on Facebook, Hollywood declared that he prefers to upgrade tea sandwiches by cutting the crusts of his bread off. The celebrity chef also mentioned that he enjoys a ham and cheese sandwich on a crusty baguette as well as a steak sandwich with rocket (aka arugula) on focaccia bread.

#sandwich #jelly #paul

Juventus have released a few videos of their latest summer signing, Jhon Lucumi, showing his first meeting with Luciano Spalletti and his new teammates, as well as his first training session at Continassa.
The Old Lady confirmed the signing of Lucumi from Bologna on Monday morning.
The Colombia international has moved to the Allianz Stadium in a €19.5m deal plus add-ons and has signed a contract until June 2030.
The 28-year-old has already started preparations for the Old Lady's 2026-27 Serie A debut against Frosinone next Sunday.
MONZA, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 22: Jhon Lucumi of Bologna FC in action during the Serie A match between Monza and Bologna at U-Power Stadium on September 22, 2024 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)

#serie #september

While teenage sensation Rodrigo Mora continues to twist in the wind as Roma and Porto struggle to agree on the finer points of a €50 million transfer, the Giallorossi remain active on other fronts, particularly the wing-back position. In addition to bringing Champions League experience from his days with Atlético Madrid, newly signed right-back Nahuel Molina gives the club a dependable trio of wing-backs, joining Devyne Rensch and our top-rated U-23 player, Wesley França.
There's just one small problem: they're all nominally right wing-backs. Granted, Wesley's success on the left last season gives Gian Piero Gasperini more options at the position, but Roma still lacks a bona fide left wing-back. Earlier this summer, we discussed the possibility of signing Alessio Cacciamani, Torino's über-talented teenage winger, only to remember what a pain in the ***** it is dealing with Urban Cairo.
There have been intermittent whispers that Roma remains interested in Cacciamani, but over the past week, the club has become increasingly linked with Destiny Udogie. The 23-year-old Verona native officially joined Spurs in 2023 after a successful two-year stint with Udinese, where he scored eight goals and provided seven ***** ists in 68 league appearances.
While he hasn't quite matched those counting stats with Spurs, he's been a key piece of the puzzle at Tottenham, making 94 appearances across all competitions over the past three seasons. When silly season began, it seemed Roberto De Zerbi was keen to keep Udogie in North London, but the transfer pendulum has swung the other way.
According to multiple sources in Italy, including Nicolò Schira and Alfredo Pedullà, Spurs are reportedly warming to the idea of life without Udogie.

#wing #back #league

ROCKTON, Ill. (WTVO/WQRF) — A slew of injuries derailed Hononegah's football season last year before it even had a chance to get going. The Indians still made the playoffs. A healthy roster this year could find the Indians challenging for the NIC-10 championship.
Hononegah head coach Brian Zimmerman would just as soon forget about last season and all the injuries this team endured.

"It's something that we're going to put in the rearview mirror, and so far, so good, we're healthy this season."

One player they missed last year because of a shoulder injury was running back and linebacker Brody Sendele. He was able to wrestle last winter after football season. He won a state championship. Now he's back on the football field.

"I really missed football. I enjoy football a lot, hanging out with my buddies. Wrestling is really a one-person sport, all about yourself. I love football."

"He gets after it, said Zimmerman. "Anytime we can get wrestlers in the football program, I love it."

The Indians have also welcomed aboard a pair of transfers from Boylan, huge lineman Caleb Collins and quarterback Dominic Cacciatore.

Zimmerman says Cacciatore has had a smooth transition. "He's done a really nice job of adapting to our offense, what we like to run. He's got a good rapport with his teammates."

Hononegah offensive lineman Richard Gambini has been impressed with Cacciatore's dedication to grasping Hononegah's offense. "His dad (John) was obviously the Boylan head coach. He (John) had him (Dominic) have all the flashcards out for our plays studying them all, and he knew them all before we even got to training camp. I think he looks great."

Cacciatore should have one of the most reliable and productive receivers in the NIC-10 to throw to in 6-4 Caleb Parker-Lones. He showed flashes of what he can do last season.

"Last season Caleb did a great job of getting his first downs," said Zimmerman. "Any time we need a first down, it seemed like the ball went to him."

Ryan Fritsch was one of the top sprinters in the conference in track last spring. He'll play the slot receiver. Giovanni Zepeda and tight end Logan Wilson are also proven pass catchers.

Sendele will play some running back along with Emerson Tuula.

Up front the Indians return starting center Tim Caver, starting right tackle Richard Gambini and starting right guard Wyatt Kinney.

Some of the defensive stalwarts will be Logan Wilson off the edge at end, Tristen Ginn at tackle, and Chase Timmerman at defensive end. Sendele and Tuula at linebacker, and Fritsch and Jacob Duval in the defensive secondary.

"I think the defense is pretty strong right now from what I've seen in practice," said Sendele. "I think we're going to be a pretty good defense."

Keep up with Hononegah and all high school football in the 815 this season with 'Overtime' Friday nights on FOX 39 in Rockford and also available on all of our digital media.
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights re

Roma's transfer market will see a dramatic acceleration in the coming days.
Following Gasperini's rebuke following the 3-0 defeat to Brighton in England, Sporting Director Tony D'Amico is working hard to finalize deals for a winger and striker.
In addition to Cacciamani and Mora, the Giallorossi are also moving forward with negotiations for Real Madrid's Endrick.
After loaning Franco Mastantuono to Fiorentina, the Blancos are reportedly considering leaving the Brazilian talent as well.
In this sense, as reported by Matteo Moretto, the player's will will be decisive.

#brighton

Multiple sources confirm Roma have asked Torino for the availability of 19-year-old winger Alessio Cacciamani, who spent last season on loan at Juve Stabia.
The Giallorossi are seeking an attacking figure for the left flank and went through several alternatives, but were always out-bid.
LEIPZIG, GERMANY – MAY 17: Antonio Nusa of RB Leipzig runs during the Bundesliga match between RB Leipzig and VfB Stuttgart at Red Bull Arena on May 17, 2025 in Leipzig, Germany. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
Antonio Nusa is also a very costly idea from RB Leipzig, so Sportitalia and Sky Sport Italia note they are turning towards a more local option.
Cacciamani is a product of the Ancona and Torino youth academies, working his way up the ranks and impressing last season on loan in Serie B with Juve Stabia, scoring two goals with two ******* ists in 36 games.

#cacciamani #last

Rafael Leao was proposed to Tottenham Hotspur, claims transfer pundit Fabrizio Romano, but Roberto De Zerbi's club are so far not interested in making an offer to Milan.
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 01: Rafael Leao of AC Milan looks dejected during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and AC Milan at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
The Portugal international put himself on the market this summer when giving several interviews ***** uring that he had given his all to the Rossoneri, so was ready for the next adventure.
He stated that the Premier League and LaLiga might be more suited to his style of football, but getting clubs ready to pay even the reduced asking price of €60m is proving very difficult indeed.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Rafael Leao of AC Milan warms up prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)