The Cleveland State Vikings hope to rebound from last year's dismal showing when they tip off the season against the Hillsdale Chargers on Saturday. After starting last year with a 4-2 record and narrowly losing to national powerhouse North Carolina, the Vikings spiraled downward. Fast. "It took us two years to produce positive results [when I was at Michigan State]," says Vikings coach Mike Garland. "And I see that same progress here."
Providing the senior leadershi is Omari Westley. "Last year is in the back of our minds," says Westley (pictured). "This year, we have more of a sense of urgency. We want to get to the NCAA Tournament." Game time is 5:30 p.m. at the CSU Convocation Center, 2000 Prospect Avenue. Tickets are $8.50 to $22.00; call 216-687-9292. -- Matt Leavitt
Ride Before the Storm
Cyclists gear up once more.
SUN 11/21
Cycling season is almost over. But don't put away your bike and those unflattering Lycra stretch pants just yet: The Lorain Wheelmen's Red Flannel Metric Century takes its 31st annual spin on Sunday. Traditionally one of the last regional rides of the season, Red Flannel is a taxing 62-mile trek through scenic Lorain County. And bring your appetite, advises spokesman Carl Panek. "Our invitational is known for its food stops," he laughs. "And we don't want to disappoint our guests this year." Because the jaunt happens so late in the year, participants have braved everything from blizzards to unseasonably warm temperatures at past outings. Biking starts at 9 a.m. at the Oberlin Community Service Center, 129 South Main Street in Oberlin. Registration is $15. For info, call 440-235-0117. -- Lucy McKernan
Snow Falls
SAT 11/20
Saturday's SkiFest includes vendors shilling everything from weekend getaways at ski resorts to snowboards and apparel. But it's the premiere of Impact -- a highlights reel of people doing crazy things in the snow -- that has us totally pumped. Warren Miller has been making winter-sports films since 1949, and his 55th flick features extreme athletes from Alaska, France, Utah, and Switzerland twisting, turning, and wiping out to Coldplay, Dandy Warhols, and Yellowcard tunes. It all starts at 7 p.m. at the Akron Civic Theatre, 182 South Main Street in Akron. Tickets are $11, available by calling 330-253-2488. -- Michael Gallucci
