Sports briefs: Vondrak makes MLB umpiring debut

Clinton Vondrak, a 2007 Carson High alum, made his MLB umpiring debut Tuesday night at second base in Houston as the Astros took on the Giants.

Vondrak, 31, resides in Reno after graduating from the University of Nevada and got the promotion after three season umpiring in Triple-A.

The former Senator also got a shout out in the top of the fifth inning from the Giants commentary crew of Duane Kuiper and Mike Krukow.

“Kid from Reno made it to the big leagues, congratulations. Way to go, Clint, ” said Krukow. “You think he’s fired up?”

“COVID is crushing his chance to show off that handsome face to all the folks back in Reno,” said Kuiper as the camera cut to Vondrak, who was wearing a mask while standing behind second base.

Vondrak was at first base for Tuesday’s contest and then behind the plate Wednesday, calling balls and strikes.

Reno 1868 FC picks up win in home opener

It’s been a hot start for the USL team up north as Reno 1868 picked up a 2-1 win over the Tacoma Defiance on Saturday.

In their first contest at Greater Nevada Field, after having their initial home opener postponed due to a positive COVID test, the boys in blue took care of business.

Benji Kikanovic deposited his first professional goal in the 20^th minute before Corey Hertzog scored the game-winning goal in the 31^st minute on a penalty kick.

Saturday’s win puts Reno in firm control of Group A in the USL restart.

Though spectators aren’t allowed for any Reno 1868 home games this season, Wednesday’s contest in Reno against Sacramento Republic will be live on Nevada Sports Net as well as ESPN+.