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DLE DEFENDING ATHLETES
AUGUST 2016 -- As the 2016 Rio Olympics began to draw to a close--and the gas station situation involving Lochte and three other U.S. swimmers drew increased coverage--DLE MP Doug Eldridge was contacted by CNN, FOX Business, and other national news outlets to provide insight and analysis on the impact this P.R. black-eye might have on the athlete's sponsorship portfolio. True to form, Eldridge objectively discussed--but ultimately defended--the accused athletes in a series of animated exchanges with national anchors and prominent journalists. "I disagree. I think you must be careful here in distinguishing between your demand for accountability versus simply demanding your pound of flesh," Eldridge said while challenging a popular network anchor. "Objectively speaking, the actions are indefensible, but the actors themselves deserve every opportunity to make this right moving forward."
THE MAGNIFICENT 7
AUGUST 2016 -- We were honored to represent seven members of Team USA at the 2016 Rio Olympics: Casey Eichfeld (Slalom Canoe), Bruce Gemmell (Coach, Swimming), Courtney Hurley (Fencing), Kelley Hurley (Fencing), Ashley Nee (Kayak), Howard Shu (Badminton), Dagmara Wozniak (Fencing). They represented the best of the United States of America, in their character, their composure, their humility in victory and their dignity and defeat. The Magnificent 7 are not only great athletes; they are great people and shining examples of the power of faith, fortitude, and an unwavering commitment to achieving your goals. Team USA is comprised of 550 athletes, representing a nation of 300 million proud, flag-waving Americans. At DLE, we are truly honored to be part of the Team Behind The Team.
DAGA WINS BRONZE
AUGUST 2016 -- With her purple hair swinging from beneath her fencing mask, Dagmara Wozniak lead the U.S. Women's Sabre Team to a dominant victory against Italy, in the Bronze Medal round, in Rio. After a disappointing (and controversial) loss to Russia in the previous round, Dagmara and Team USA came out fierce and focused against the Italians. Daga won her matches 5-1, 5-2, 5-2 and the American Sabre Team claimed a hard-fought Bronze. When asked about her purple hair, Wozniak said, "As young girls, we often try to blend in instead of standing out for our achievements. I hope my purple hair will encourage the next generation of student athletes to stand up and stand out in order to achieve their true potential."
HALAPIO BACK IN BOSTON
JULY 2016 -- OG Jon Halapio signed with the New England Patriots just before the start of 2016 Training Camp. In 2014, the Patriots selected Halapio in the 6th Rd of the NFL Draft. He went on to spend time with the Broncos and Cardinals, as well. "It's an honor and a privilege to come back to New England," said Halapio. "I know how fortunate I am to be here and I am going to make the most of this opportunity." Coach Belechik noted Halapio's strength, weight and conditioning, in an early pre-season press conference. The Tongan OG came into camp 9lbs lighter than 2014 and with a renewed focus on the task at hand.
AD TO KC
JULY 2016 -- Soon after completed the 2nd Annual AD47 Football Leadership Academy, Akeem Davis signed with the Kansas City Chiefs. The third year Safety played his rookie season with the Washington Redskins and his second season across a myriad of NFL teams, including the Redskins, Saints, Bucs, Seahawks, and Colts. AD is fit, focused, and ready to make an impact in KC.
SIGNING: ASHLEY NEE
JULY 2016 -- We are honored to welcome Slalom Kayaker Ashley Nee to the DLE Family. Ashley's story is nothing if not inspiring. In 2008, she was primed to make her Olympic debut, only to lose her slot due to injury. Four years later--after earning America's lone slot in London--she lost a points tie-breaker to her teammate and again missed out on representing Team USA at the Games. In the four years between London and Rio, Nee--who is one of the few openly gay members of Team USA--quit the sport, married her partner, and somewhere along the way, found her focus and her love of the sport. Her fortitude paid off, and next month, Ashley will make her Olympic debut for the United States. If at first you don't succeed...