Sports

Get the latest sports news on BanerClub, including live scores, match updates, and news about athletes and teams from around the world.

Latest Sports
Family-Owned Soda Company Keeps Returnable Glass Bottle Tradition Alive In the US, about 127 billion plastic bottles are bought every year. Yet one Midwestern soft drink company is holding on to the old-school way of selling soda in returnable glass bottles. A Tradition Almost Lost Until the 1960s, most soda bottles in the US were designed to be returned. Customers paid a deposit for sturdy glass bottles, which they returned to stores for a refund. The bottles were then washed and refilled repeatedly. The rise of plastic bottles phased out this system, but Twig's Beverage, a family-owned company in Shawano County, Wisconsin, has kept it alive. Customers pay a $20 deposit for a case of 24 bottles. They can even visit Twig's factory in Shawano to refill bottles, some of which are over 60 years old. Nostalgia and Community Ben Hartwig, Twig's vice-president, says families have been bringing back the same bottles for generations. "Cases get passed down, and the next family member brings them in," he says. "Long-time customers love the nostalgic feel and treat these cases like gold." Some 16oz bottles still date back to the 1960s and 70s, and they continue to go through Twig's washing process today. Sun Drop and Real Sugar Established in 1951 by Floyd Hartwig, Twig's signature soda is Sun Drop, a citrus-flavored drink first developed in Missouri in the 1940s. Although US drinks giant Keurig Dr Pepper owns the brand, Twig's makes Sun Drop under license for sale in its Wisconsin territory. It is the last Sun Drop producer to use returnable glass bottles instead of plastic and one of the few still using real sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup. Twig's also produces its own line of fruit sodas, including root beer, black cherry, orange, and lime. While Sun Drop can only be sold in Wisconsin, Twig's is expanding its own soda brand across the Midwest. These new bottles will not be returnable due to distance, so customers outside the state are encouraged to recycle them. Family Business and Local Culture Twig's story began when Floyd Hartwig, recovering from wounds in the Korean War, conceived the soda business idea. Post-World War Two economic growth and a rise in take-home drinks helped the business flourish. In 1986, Floyd’s son Dan took over to keep the company in the family. Today, Ben Hartwig runs Twig's with his wife Annelies and brothers Jake and Luke. The company employs 20 people and earns around $6.5 million annually. Sun Drop Dayz, a local fundraiser with live music and activities, has been celebrated every June since 2017. Visitors can also tour Twig's museum to see the soda-making process firsthand. Looking Ahead Twig's continues to honor its tradition of returnable glass bottles while expanding its own soda brand in the Midwest. With a focus on nostalgia, real sugar, and community, the company blends heritage with growth.
Sports

Family-Owned Soda Company Keeps Returnable Glass Bottle Tradition Alive

In the US, about 127 billion plastic bottles are bought every year. Yet one Midwestern soft drink company is holding on to the old-school way of selling soda in returnable…

South Africa is still unbeaten at the T20 World Cup after a convincing win against West Indies in 2026 Aiden Markram leads Proteas To Victory South Africa maintained its unbeaten record at the T20 World Cup in 2026 with a nine-wicket win over West Indies. Aiden Markram was the star of the show with 82 runs unbeaten from just 46 deliveries. Markram hit seven fours, and sixes. South Africa comfortably won by 23 balls. Markram's fifty-seven came in just 27 deliveries and he formed a 95 run partnership with Quinton de Kock. Quinton scored 47 runs from 24 balls before being dismissed by Roston Chase in the eighth over. Ryan Rickelton at number three contributed 45 runs to Quinton's partnership. South Africa has now moved two points in front of Super 8s Group 1 leader and is one step closer towards the semi-finals. Should India beat Zimbabwe on Thursday the Proteas will be assured a spot in the semis. West Indies Struggle Back, but Fail South Africa reduced West Indies to 83-7 from 83-7 following a strong start. Kagiso Naidi, Rovman and Matthew Forde were unable to stabilize the innings. Holder, Romario Shepherd and the West Indies resurrected their innings with an 89-run partnership. Holder scored 49 runs from only 31 deliveries. Shepherd scored 52 off 37 balls, finishing unbeaten. They added 58 runs in the final five overs but it wasn't enough to meet their target. South Africa's bowling dominates South Africa's bowlers made the match impossible to win by taking 4 wickets in the first 4 balls. Keshav Maharaj and Marco Jansen from India both delivered tight bowling that limited the West Indies’ late rally. Proteas nearing semi-finals South Africa is now one step closer towards the semifinals. West Indies' consistency in the Super 8 phase shows its strength. West Indies needs to win to stay competitive.
Sports

South Africa is still unbeaten at the T20 World Cup after a convincing win against West Indies in 2026

Aiden Markram leads Proteas To Victory South Africa maintained its unbeaten record at the T20 World Cup in 2026 with a nine-wicket win over West Indies. Aiden Markram was the…

Cristiano Ronaldo takes a 25% stake in Spanish club UD Almeria, expanding his football and business ventures while supporting the club’s growth.
Sports

Cristiano Cristiano, co-owner of Almeria in Spain

Cristiano Ronaldo has officially become a co-owner of Spanish football club UD Almeria, acquiring a 25% stake through his company, CR7 Sports Investments. This move adds a new chapter to…

The US Women's Olympic Ice Hockey Victory is Overshadowed by a Trump Joke Donald Trump's comment has caused controversy after it diverted attention from Team USA’s historical success in the Winter Olympics. The United States took home gold medals in men's hockey and women's hockey at the Winter Games of Milan-Cortina. This was the first time that the United States won both gold medals at the same Games. The public instead of celebrating the rare win turned their attention to an impromptu comment made by the team's coach during a call congratulating them. Donald Trump's Comments Trump invited the team to Washington for his State of the Union Address. He congratulated the hockey players and wished them well. He said that the men's team would need to be invited, or else he could "probably" face impeachment. The comment was laughed at by several players. Online, critics quickly responded to the joke by claiming that it reduced women's achievements to an amusing punchline. Social media exploded with the joke, which became a hot political and sporting topic. Women's team declines invitation The women's team declined the invitation to the speech. Hilary Knight, the USA captain, addressed this controversy later in an ESPN interview. Knight called the comments "disgusting" and claimed that they distracted attention from the hard work of the athletes. She said that women should have been the focus of attention, as they were responsible for Team USA's Olympic success. She defended both the women's and men's teams. Knight said that the players were in a difficult position when the decision was made. Knight believes that there's genuine respect between the two teams. She believes that the online reaction exaggerated and diverted attention from the unity and support among US hockey. Hilary Knight’s Historic Record Knight ended her Olympic career by scoring 15 goals. This makes Knight the most prolific goal-scorer in US Olympic Hockey history. She leaves the Games at 36 as one of sport's leading voices and a five-time Olympic medalist. She wants this moment to serve as an example of how institutions and leaders speak about women in all industries, including sports. Knight stated that women are not less than men. Knight said that women's achievements must stand alone.
Sports

Trump Olympic joke sparks debate after women’s ice hockey gold

The Trump Olympic joke has sparked controversy after Team USA achieved historic gold medals in both men’s and women’s ice hockey at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. Critics say the remark…

Katie Taylor will retire after her final fight in Dublin Katie Taylor, the Irish boxing icon has announced that she will be retiring later this year following one final fight in Dublin. The 39-year-old plans to end her career in Ireland and is hoping to fight at Croke park. Taylor Taylor hasn't fought in a fight since July last year when she beat Amanda Serrano during their three-round bout in New York. She wants to make her last appearance in front of Irish supporters. In a recent conversation, she stated: "I want to fight to finish my career in Dublin." Croke Park is still her top choice. She mentioned that if it doesn't work, the 3Arena or the Aviva Stadium could be venues. The Career that Changed Irish Sport Katie Taylor started boxing when she was 12 years old. In 2001, she made her debut as an amateur and rose quickly through the ranks. She pushed herself forward at a time in Ireland when female fighters had limited opportunities. At the age of 15, she competed in Ireland's first women-only bout. She won many amateur world titles before winning Olympic gold in London 2012. Taylor has continued to push boundaries in the world of professional wrestling. The four-belt era saw Taylor become the undisputed champion of two weight classes. Few fighters have ever achieved this feat, whether they are male or female. She was able to bring women's fighting into the spotlight through her rivalry with Amanda Serrano. The fights attracted large crowds, and they were covered extensively by major media outlets. This proved that women's fighting belongs in the most prestigious arenas. A Dream Goodbye at Croke Park Taylor has one final goal. Taylor wants to compete at Croke before retiring. Croke Park, the iconic Dublin stadium that has played host to some of Ireland’s most memorable sporting moments. In the past, costs have prevented this plan from being implemented. Taylor is still hopeful. The Irish would be able to see their most famous athlete in person if he were to fight his final bout at Croke park. She will look at other locations in Dublin if the event is not possible there. She plans to finish her career in Dublin, regardless of the venue. Legacy beyond Titles Taylor's influence goes far beyond medals and belts. Taylor helped change attitudes towards women's sport in Ireland. She was humble and often thanked the fighters that paved her way, such as her inspiration Deirdre Goguety. Taylor is one of the best boxers in her generation. She is considered by many to be one of the best athletes Ireland ever produced. She prepares to make one last walk around the ring this summer. She wants this moment to be Dublin's.
Sports

Katie Taylor will retire after her final fight in Dublin

Katie Taylor, the Irish boxing icon has announced that she will be retiring later this year following one final fight in Dublin. The 39-year-old plans to end her career in Ireland…

What Should England Do About Jos Buttler? England face a big selection call ahead of the World Cup semi final. The main question is clear. What should they do about Jos Buttler? Buttler has struggled at the top of the order in recent matches. That dip in form has raised doubts about his role. Still, few doubt his class or his record in white ball cricket. Move Buttler Down the Order? One option is to move Buttler into the middle order. This could ease the pressure to attack from ball one. In one day cricket, he often plays as a finisher and handles that role well. In T20s, he has batted at five and six 45 times for England. However, he has not done that regularly since 2018. A shift now would require another player to open the innings. Tom Banton and Will Jacks are natural openers. Banton returned to the squad to strengthen the middle order, especially against spin. Jacks has impressed as a finisher in this tournament. He has scored 159 runs from just 90 balls. Harry Brook and Jacob Bethell have also opened in the IPL. Brook recently smashed a brilliant century at number three. Bethell, on the other hand, does not always start quickly. Swapping Brook and Buttler is possible, but it may disturb a settled position. Another factor is Buttler’s partnership with Phil Salt. Before the tournament, many saw that opening pair as one of England’s biggest strengths. Breaking it up would be a bold step. Should England Drop Him? Dropping Buttler looks unlikely. He signed a new two year central contract last year. He has been a key part of England’s white ball teams for more than a decade. Leaving him out of a World Cup semi final would be a massive call. The match could take place at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Buttler has an excellent IPL record at that ground. He has scored 94 not out, 89 and 116 there. Ben Duckett is the spare batter in the squad. He is also short of form. This winter, he has averaged just 18.88 across 12 matches in all formats. He even fell for a first ball duck in his most recent innings. England could also turn to Rehan Ahmed, a leg spinning all rounder. That would be a surprise move and a clear gamble. A Final Chance to Respond England’s next match against New Zealand offers a low pressure chance. They have already qualified, so the result will not change their position. This game could help Buttler find rhythm before the semi final. Former England spinner Alex Hartley backed him strongly. She said anyone writing Buttler off needs to think again. According to her, one clean shot could change everything. She believes he will deliver when it matters most. England now face a tough decision. Stick with their proven match winner, or make a bold change at the top?
Sports

What Should England Do About Jos Buttler?

England face a big selection call ahead of the World Cup semi final. The main question is clear. What should they do about Jos Buttler? Buttler has struggled at the…

UEFA rejects Benfica appeal as Prestianni set to miss Real Madrid clash UEFA rejected Benfica’s appeal of the provisional suspension against Argentine winger Gianluca Prestianni. Prestianni, 20, will miss Benfica’s second-leg Champions League play off match against Real Madrid. This ban is the result of allegations made by Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior during their 1 to 0 win in last week’s first leg. Prestianni was suspended UEFA issued a provisional one-match ban to Prestianni after Vinicius Jr claimed that he used discriminatory language in the Lisbon match. According to the governing body, there were enough preliminary evidences for a prima-facie case. The officials were able to temporarily suspend the case while they conducted a thorough investigation. Benfica appealed the decision. The club did admit that, even if it went ahead, there was little chance of the decision affecting Wednesday's game in Madrid. Benfica’s Appeal is Rejected UEFA’s Appeals Body examined Benfica’s request, but rejected it. Prestianni is therefore suspended from the next European match. In the hope that the ruling would be changed, he trained at the Real Madrid stadium with his squad on Tuesday. The decision was not changed. The suspension is only temporary. The UEFA ethics and disciplinary inspection will complete a thorough review. Further sanctions may be imposed based on the results. Benfica: What this means Prestianni could have played while the investigation continued if UEFA hadn't imposed the temporary ban. Benfica will have to prepare without their young winger for the crucial Champions League match. Portuguese team is under even greater pressure as they trail Real Madrid 1 to 0 in the aggregate. UEFA is yet to announce a date for the ruling. Prestianni is still suspended until then and his immediate future in Europe remains unclear.
Sports

Prestianni Suspension Confirmed as UEFA Rejects Benfica Appeal

The Prestianni suspension will stand after UEFA rejected Benfica’s appeal ahead of their crucial Champions League clash with Real Madrid. The Argentine winger will miss the second leg at the…

UK shops are locking chocolate bars and using CCTV and AI security as thefts rise. Find out how retailers are tackling chocolate crime.
Sports

UK Shops Lock Chocolate as Theft Becomes a Big Problem

Chocolate theft is on the rise in the UK. Some shops are now locking chocolate bars in special boxes after thieves began stealing them to sell illegally. Sainsbury’s has started…

Eddie Jones Sees Echoes of His Own Exit in England’s Loss to Ireland Former England head coach Eddie Jones says Saturday’s defeat to Ireland brought back memories of the bitter end of his own time in charge. The atmosphere at Allianz Stadium reminded him of Twickenham after his last game. England came into the Six Nations hoping to win their first title since 2020, but back-to-back heavy defeats, including a loss to Scotland in round two, have put their campaign in jeopardy. Some home fans left the stadium early against Ireland, and fly-half George Ford was ironically cheered for finding touch after earlier mistakes. Feeling the Weight of the Loss “I felt sick at the end of the game,” Jones said on his Rugby Unity podcast. “The stadium felt half-empty, the sky grey, and the fans who stayed seemed ready to vent. It was an eerie feeling.” Jones left England after a 27-13 loss to South Africa in November 2022, and he was sacked ten days later after winning just five of 12 matches that year. Looking Too Far Ahead Jones also suggested that England head coach Steve Borthwick made a mistake before the tournament by publicly talking about aiming for the title. “Steve made comments about the France game that were unusual for him,” Jones said. “Looking too far ahead can be dangerous. Players, their partners, even families read it. Suddenly they start thinking about hotels, dinners, tickets for Paris, instead of the game in front of them. That small shift in focus can affect a team.” France currently leads the Six Nations with maximum points, while England faces a crucial match against Italy on March 7. A loss there could leave them at the bottom of the table. Leadership and Emotional Control Jones believes England’s main issue is emotional control, which affects preparation and leadership on the field. “Sometimes it’s one player not fully committed, or a leadership gap. Any of these can cause a drop in performance.” He stressed that team leaders need to pull everyone together, both on and off the field. He also questioned Borthwick’s decision to start Henry Pollock, a Northampton back row player. Pollock’s Best Role Pollock impressed by beating defenders, winning a turnover, and making the most tackles, but Jones thinks he’s more effective coming off the bench. “He’s like Bobby Skinstad—strong and athletic, but more suited to 20-minute bursts. Playing a full 80 minutes in the back row requires a grind, and that might not be his game.”
Sports

Eddie Jones Sees Echoes of His Own Exit in England’s Loss to Ireland

Former England head coach Eddie Jones says Saturday’s defeat to Ireland brought back memories of the bitter end of his own time in charge. The atmosphere at Allianz Stadium reminded…

Hakimi Accused of Rape Paris St-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi will go on trial after a woman accused him of raping her at his home in Paris in 2023. She was 24 at the time. Hakimi denies the allegations. The public prosecutor’s office in Nanterre, a suburb of western Paris, started an investigation in March 2023. Hakimi wrote on X, "Today, a rape accusation is enough to justify a trial. This is as unfair to the innocent as it is to genuine victims. I calmly await this trial so the truth can come out." Lawyer Confirms Trial Hakimi’s lawyer confirmed that a trial has been officially ordered. He said, "We await this trial with determination so that justice may be served." No date has been set yet. The Nanterre prosecutor’s office has not commented further. Hakimi’s Career Highlights Born in Spain but playing for Morocco, Hakimi has made 194 appearances for Paris St-Germain. He helped PSG win Ligue 1 and the Champions League last season. Despite the ongoing case, he is included in PSG’s squad for their upcoming Champions League second-leg match against Monaco. Hakimi was recently named in the FIFPro Men’s World Team of the Year at the Best FIFA Football Awards in Paris. Looking Ahead to the World Cup Hakimi will also represent Morocco at the World Cup this summer. Morocco will play Scotland, Haiti, and Brazil in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
Sports

Hakimi Accused of Rape

Paris St-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi will go on trial after a woman accused him of raping her at his home in Paris in 2023. She was 24 at the time.…

Stay Connected

- Advertisement -

Latest News

Meta Description: Over 100 killed in a Pakistani air strike on a Kabul drug rehabilitation centre. UN calls for investigation and de-escalation amid rising Afghanistan-Pakistan tensions.
Pakistan Air Strike Destroys Kabul Rehab Centre, Over 100 Dead
Pakistan War
Top US Counterterrorism Official Resigns, Urges Trump to End Iran War
Top US Counterterrorism Official Resigns, Urges Trump to End Iran War
United States War
The Global Reaction to Trump’s Strait of Hormuz Plan is Cautious Donald Trump continues to raise tensions in the Strait of Hormuz as he calls upon allies to secure this vital shipping route. Major countries, however, aren't rushing into action. The majority of countries are using a controlled and careful approach. They focus more on diplomatic action than military. UK still weighing its options Keir starmer is the leader of the UK government. The UK hasn't made any final decisions yet. The US, European countries, and Gulf Partners are all in discussions to come up with a plan that works. Ed Miliband has confirmed that every possible step is being reviewed. The UK still believes the best way to open the Strait is by ending the war. Germany rejects military role Germany is clearly pulling back. The leaders of the world have said that this conflict has nothing to do with NATO, and shouldn't involve European troops. Boris Pistorius, the Defence Minister of South Africa, questioned whether European vessels were needed when America already had a strong navy. Germany is taking a firm stance. Germany does not consider this to be its own war. France Signals Delay France under Emmanuel Macron has proposed a future naval coalition. This would not happen until the war's most intensive phase is over. France does not plan to send any ships in the Strait. The French military remains on the defensive in this region. China Tries to Calm Things Down China called for an end to all military action immediately. The officials warn that the rising tensions may harm global economic growth. China maintains contact with the key players in order to lower tensions. South Korea Monitoring Situation South Korea closely monitors the situation. Government has yet to make a decision. The government is examining different options for protecting citizens and energy lines. Parliament must approve any military action. Japan Legal Options Japan hasn't received any formal requests to send ships. The government, according to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, is examining possible measures. Japan is focused on protecting both its crew and vessels while remaining within legal limits. EU Prefers Diplomacy No plans exist for the European Union to increase its naval missions. Kaja Kallas, the head of foreign policy at the European Union's Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFA), said that there was little public support to put troops in danger. EU pushes for diplomatic solutions in order to maintain the openness of the Strait. The Global Mood is Still Careful In general, no international coalition is forming. The majority of countries are trying to avoid a direct confrontation with Iran. The focus is on securing trade routes and preventing further conflict.
The Global Reaction to Trump’s Strait of Hormuz Plan is Cautious
Business United States War
All six crew members killed after US refuelling plane crashes in Iraq
Six US crew members killed in a crash in Iraq while refuelling a plane
United States War
Register Lost your password?