Although I am fully immersed in the NCAA Tourney (almost perfect in my picks...or not) and Kentucky's play in the NIT (not to mention the coaching situation), I have been forced to acknowledge the characters that are grabbing headlines in sports this past week or so. Several players in the NCAA Tourney acted like characters themselves. The amount of stare downs and glares in the Duke/Texas game by both teams was enough to make me sick, but I was actually watching Duke and that may be my real issue.
MANNY was being Manny. He had to retire from his first action in the field due to tightness in the leg region, hamstring I believe. This guy is an absolute monster at the plate and a jack-in-the-box in the field. You never know where he's going to jump out and he seems to have no purpose to his movement at times. Does he lay low while he is recovering or take it easy for a bit? Nope. There he is all over Sports Center, working in some cricket...really? I am chuckling a bit, because I would love for him to be on the Reds or the Pirates. He's good when it counts. Well, as long as he's happy.
OVECHKIN was being blasted by Mike Milbury during an intermission on NBC's coverage of the NHL on Sunday for his on ice celebrations. Alex is known for his youthful exuberance during games and especially after goals. This is what the NHL needs, life! The NHL is full of great players and even better people, but there aren't enough people caring to move the needle. People want to see this guy play hockey and they should. He goes all out all the time, like every shift might be his last, and he obviously enjoys it. However, he crossed the line with his celebration of his 50th goal. Ovechkin acted like a certain someone in football and scripted his celebration of treating his stick as if it were just too hot. This is an embarrassment to his team, himself, and more importantly, it was disrespectful of the opposition. He made an error in judgement this time, but I hope he continues to celebrate his goals with unrehearsed celebrations. If it weren't for Malkin, he'd be the best player in the NHL right now. Regardless, he is the most passionate.
SCHILLING made it back into the news cycle, right where he likes it. The borderline Hall of Fame pitcher decided to officially retire. This guy drove me nuts. I'll admit that I never really liked the guy anyway, but he always seemed like such a jackass, especially while claiming to be a christian. When you are a better person than others, you don't tend to point that out. I'm sure he has several fans, especially in Boston. I hope he is tormented with a long wait for the hall, if he makes it at all.
TO...do I really need to list this? This time, he starts off his tenure with his new team on the wrong foot. Yes, the workouts that he skipped are voluntary. You'd think he would want to start helping Trent Edwards with his throws to the proper routes right away. I really don't get this guy.
OCHO CINCO makes my list for two reasons. One, the NFL decided to officially accept his name change for league purposes. The record books must be rewritten. Second, who else did you think I was talking about in the Ovechkin reference?
CUTLER is about to drive me crazy. Jay Cutler was discussed in trade talks, who cares? He is paid an extraordinary amount of money due to his incredible ability as a QB. I believe it was last year that he was talking about this being a business to Brandon Marshall and trying to get him back in camp. He is upset that his new coach was trying to land a QB that already knows his system. Regardless of how he feels about how this was handled, and it was a train wreck conducted by McDaniels, he needs to man up and report to camp.
They are all characters, like them or not. We all seem to be drawn to them or at least enjoy watching their stories...repeatedly in some cases.
March 24, 2009
March 18, 2009
Why just 2? How about 8?
Congrats to the NCAA Selection Committee for doing two things I thought they would not do. UConn over Memphis as a #1 Seed and Arizona in over St. Mary's. I agreed with both.
The NCAA Tourney started Tuesday night with Morehead State beating Alabama State at UD Arena. Both teams seemed to enjoy the great atmosphere and the experience of being in the NCAAs. Why not do this a few more times? I know that if you add a few more teams, the next few would claim they were snubbed on into perpetuity. The General says to add another round. That's a bit much. I originally thought that we should add 3 more teams and let them all be 16a versus 16b, winner gets to play the #1 Seeds. This is a good idea for small conference tourney winners to gain exposure for playing on the Tuesday or Wednesday before their game versus #1. I have a better idea now.
The New Weller Plan still includes the addition of 3 more teams, but they all are slotted into 11a and 11b. They still play two days before the winner matches up against the 6 Seed. The teams on the bubble usually end up on the 11 line, so their penalty for barely making it in is the extra game. The smaller conference champions played their tails off to get the crown of champion and regardless of what the NCAA says, their game seems like a play-in game. They also only have 1 or 2 days to rest and prepare for the #1 Seed. That doesn't seem right for a champion. Make these late arriving teams that are begging for the second chance work more for their right to get a partner in the Big Dance!
My Cats looked like they should be put out of their misery last night during the first few minutes of their game against UNLV in the NIT. I yelled at the TV, asking if they realized they had the name "Kentucky" on the front of their jerseys? They ended up running away in the first half, only to collapse in the second half. I'm still not sure how they held on for the win. If you are a fan of UK, be sure to click on the link to the right...Mike Eaves got some important information that will interest you!
Dayton does not play until Friday. I will have a tough time seeing it in Pittsburgh since they both play at 3:00. Since the Flyers will not likely win it all, I will root for a Louisville/Pittsburgh Championship Game.
Quick Hits
Team USA manned up in the bottom of the 9th in the WBC to defeat Puerto Rico last night. Although fans do not seem to care about this classic, I loved the excitement US players showed in their victory. I hope they continue to show that child like exuberance.
Evgeni Malkin of the Penguins scored his 100th point of the season last night. He is the most underrated player in the NHL.
Martin Broduer claimed his 552nd win on Tuesday, most in NHL history. Congrats to him!
President Obama filled out a tourney bracket. I really like that he did, and more so that he made it public. Well, until he chose UNC to win...now I am questioning my vote!
Good luck to everyone on their brackets.
The NCAA Tourney started Tuesday night with Morehead State beating Alabama State at UD Arena. Both teams seemed to enjoy the great atmosphere and the experience of being in the NCAAs. Why not do this a few more times? I know that if you add a few more teams, the next few would claim they were snubbed on into perpetuity. The General says to add another round. That's a bit much. I originally thought that we should add 3 more teams and let them all be 16a versus 16b, winner gets to play the #1 Seeds. This is a good idea for small conference tourney winners to gain exposure for playing on the Tuesday or Wednesday before their game versus #1. I have a better idea now.
The New Weller Plan still includes the addition of 3 more teams, but they all are slotted into 11a and 11b. They still play two days before the winner matches up against the 6 Seed. The teams on the bubble usually end up on the 11 line, so their penalty for barely making it in is the extra game. The smaller conference champions played their tails off to get the crown of champion and regardless of what the NCAA says, their game seems like a play-in game. They also only have 1 or 2 days to rest and prepare for the #1 Seed. That doesn't seem right for a champion. Make these late arriving teams that are begging for the second chance work more for their right to get a partner in the Big Dance!
My Cats looked like they should be put out of their misery last night during the first few minutes of their game against UNLV in the NIT. I yelled at the TV, asking if they realized they had the name "Kentucky" on the front of their jerseys? They ended up running away in the first half, only to collapse in the second half. I'm still not sure how they held on for the win. If you are a fan of UK, be sure to click on the link to the right...Mike Eaves got some important information that will interest you!
Dayton does not play until Friday. I will have a tough time seeing it in Pittsburgh since they both play at 3:00. Since the Flyers will not likely win it all, I will root for a Louisville/Pittsburgh Championship Game.
Quick Hits
Team USA manned up in the bottom of the 9th in the WBC to defeat Puerto Rico last night. Although fans do not seem to care about this classic, I loved the excitement US players showed in their victory. I hope they continue to show that child like exuberance.
Evgeni Malkin of the Penguins scored his 100th point of the season last night. He is the most underrated player in the NHL.
Martin Broduer claimed his 552nd win on Tuesday, most in NHL history. Congrats to him!
President Obama filled out a tourney bracket. I really like that he did, and more so that he made it public. Well, until he chose UNC to win...now I am questioning my vote!
Good luck to everyone on their brackets.
March 15, 2009
Marching On...
What a great couple of weeks we are in the midst of...Conference Championship Week and then the beginning of the NCAA Tourney. I don't even like Syracuse, but give them credit for the remarkable effort they displayed this past week. (I love their sophomore guard, Jonny Flynn.) College Hoops will dominate just about every sportscast for the next week. It seems like half the US population will be participating in tournament pools. How much fun is all of this? This would be the time frame to repeat over and over again in a Groundhog Day type scenario. However, I could do without the constant reminder of that one stupid play that they all seem to continually discuss as the greatest play in college basketball history. I know many fans of UK that find it to be ridiculous that the player making the shot was even allowed to continue playing after an ejectable offense earlier that evening. I'll post about it when I have dealt with my issues.
This year, I may be watching the NIT games as much or more than the NCAA games. My favorite teams, Kentucky and Dayton, may be participating in the NIT this year. Kentucky, who struggled early and really struggled late, will be playing in the secondary tournament unless there are a few members of the NCAA selection committee on the take. Despite having a couple of terrific players in Patterson and Meeks, the Wildcats were only able to dominate the beginning of their SEC schedule. Their 20 wins should not allow them into the NCAA's. Dayton has a shot to get in with 26 wins, but they actually struggled down the stretch in the Atlantic-10. Any time they joined the Top 25 rankings, they would lose as if they had a phobia of the honor. Although many have them as a lock now, I will be crossing my fingers during the selection show
Before the field of 65 is announced later tonight, here are my thoughts on a couple of spots...
#1 Seeds
Louisville - Big East Champs in the regular and post season, Pitino continues magic in the Bluegrass.
North Carolina - Solid team that ran over most of the over rated ACC, including Duke
Pittsburgh - If this team were not the Dayton phobia of the #1 spot in the rankings, they'd only have 2 losses all year.
Memphis - by default, since UConn nor Michigan State wanted it. Join a conference already!
#2 Seeds
UConn, Michigan State, Duke, Kansas
Oklahoma is as over rated as that Blake Griffin character, so they get snubbed at 2 by me, but they will get it over Kansas from the committee. I'd put Villanova or Wake in as a 2 over Oklahoma. Maybe I shouldn't be so tough on them, but I really think they are nowhere near as good as they get credit for from national press. I see them losing by their 3rd game if not sooner...
I like the Cinderella story, really I do. Dayton has been that story a few times (God bless you Roosevelt Chapman and Negel Knight). However, some of this gets ridiculous. St. Mary's is an example of a good team, but you have to be better than the West Coast Conference to compete in the NCAAs. They do not have the resume that Arizona has, but they will get the bid over Arizona to be fair to mid major conferences. I don't agree with that. Arizona played a tougher non-conference schedule. The Pac-10 is better than the West Coast this year, even if not as much as usual.
I think we should take a look at some of these top ranked teams in mid majors that lose in their conference tournaments. If they have a bid locked up, they lose and make themselves and their conference more money by giving up the automatic bid. I'm starting to get suspicious with how many of them seem to "slip" in their tournaments.
I am anxious for 6pm tonight! Let's get the teams revealed, fill out the brackets, get teams 64 and 65 to UD Arena in Dayton for their Tuesday night date, and get this thing under way. I'll look for the Kentucky games in the NIT and their pursuit of #66 too!
This year, I may be watching the NIT games as much or more than the NCAA games. My favorite teams, Kentucky and Dayton, may be participating in the NIT this year. Kentucky, who struggled early and really struggled late, will be playing in the secondary tournament unless there are a few members of the NCAA selection committee on the take. Despite having a couple of terrific players in Patterson and Meeks, the Wildcats were only able to dominate the beginning of their SEC schedule. Their 20 wins should not allow them into the NCAA's. Dayton has a shot to get in with 26 wins, but they actually struggled down the stretch in the Atlantic-10. Any time they joined the Top 25 rankings, they would lose as if they had a phobia of the honor. Although many have them as a lock now, I will be crossing my fingers during the selection show
Before the field of 65 is announced later tonight, here are my thoughts on a couple of spots...
#1 Seeds
Louisville - Big East Champs in the regular and post season, Pitino continues magic in the Bluegrass.
North Carolina - Solid team that ran over most of the over rated ACC, including Duke
Pittsburgh - If this team were not the Dayton phobia of the #1 spot in the rankings, they'd only have 2 losses all year.
Memphis - by default, since UConn nor Michigan State wanted it. Join a conference already!
#2 Seeds
UConn, Michigan State, Duke, Kansas
Oklahoma is as over rated as that Blake Griffin character, so they get snubbed at 2 by me, but they will get it over Kansas from the committee. I'd put Villanova or Wake in as a 2 over Oklahoma. Maybe I shouldn't be so tough on them, but I really think they are nowhere near as good as they get credit for from national press. I see them losing by their 3rd game if not sooner...
I like the Cinderella story, really I do. Dayton has been that story a few times (God bless you Roosevelt Chapman and Negel Knight). However, some of this gets ridiculous. St. Mary's is an example of a good team, but you have to be better than the West Coast Conference to compete in the NCAAs. They do not have the resume that Arizona has, but they will get the bid over Arizona to be fair to mid major conferences. I don't agree with that. Arizona played a tougher non-conference schedule. The Pac-10 is better than the West Coast this year, even if not as much as usual.
I think we should take a look at some of these top ranked teams in mid majors that lose in their conference tournaments. If they have a bid locked up, they lose and make themselves and their conference more money by giving up the automatic bid. I'm starting to get suspicious with how many of them seem to "slip" in their tournaments.
I am anxious for 6pm tonight! Let's get the teams revealed, fill out the brackets, get teams 64 and 65 to UD Arena in Dayton for their Tuesday night date, and get this thing under way. I'll look for the Kentucky games in the NIT and their pursuit of #66 too!
March 10, 2009
JUST CLASSIC
As mentioned before, I love baseball. I am getting ready to leave Florida after just 3 days here, more like 2 days and 3 nights, but I'm not complaining. I worked the two games here in Bradenton, the Pirates versus the Astros on Sunday and then the Red Sox on Monday. I kept busy for both games (10 innings and 4 1/2 hours on Monday), but I managed to catch a few outs as I worked. A variety of people from all over North America, foreign lands, even some local; young, old, and some really old; they all come to watch baseball. I want to do this. I'm jealous. However, I would not be wearing a coat in the 80 degree temps, or at least I hope I'm not one of those guys. I am disappointed that I have not attended more spring training games throughout my life. I attended one game in Kissimmee about 12 years ago, but I have been around spring training facilities on many occasions. I will not get to see the Reds play in Sarasota since they leave after this year.
I sense there is a basic joy that baseball exudes at spring training. The games don't really count, so the pressure to win at all cost doesn't seem to be there. They get to play games during the day. The night is for enjoying life and being with family and friends. Most of the players seem to leave their fancier cars, lifestyles, and attitudes of summer for a more relaxed atmosphere. They seem to enjoy the game more during spring training, almost as if they are playing for the fun of the game. I know it isn't that simple. I know that there are players fighting for jobs, and some that couldn't have fun or change their attitude if their lives depended on it. I like my thoughts of spring training, so don't rain on my parade.
The other baseball item I wanted to write about is the World Baseball Classic. I like the event, but I am just not sure of its timing. It is fun to watch the games on tv, and see how excited and passionate the fans are for their players, their teams, and their countries. Well, most of the fans are that way, but I am still waiting for the USA songs and chants. Although I enjoy this event, can we tighten up the rules on who can play for what countries? Teams have guys playing for them that have never set foot in that country. Alex Rodriguez had played for the USA 3 years ago and was planning on playing for the Dominican Republic for this classic. I do have an issue with the big advertisements on the jerseys. If they are a requirement, can they at least be more tasteful. That is one big ugly and intrusive Best Buy patch. I'm sure they are happy with the result...I noticed it! I won't let any of that discourage me from watching or enjoying the games.
One last comment for now. Thank you to every person that has served or is serving our country. A good friend of mine was called back to duty from the reserves. He has been taken from his young family to help protect our freedom, and assist others to attain freedom. We never understand their sacrifice fully, but we do recognize more when it gets close to us. Thank you!
I sense there is a basic joy that baseball exudes at spring training. The games don't really count, so the pressure to win at all cost doesn't seem to be there. They get to play games during the day. The night is for enjoying life and being with family and friends. Most of the players seem to leave their fancier cars, lifestyles, and attitudes of summer for a more relaxed atmosphere. They seem to enjoy the game more during spring training, almost as if they are playing for the fun of the game. I know it isn't that simple. I know that there are players fighting for jobs, and some that couldn't have fun or change their attitude if their lives depended on it. I like my thoughts of spring training, so don't rain on my parade.
The other baseball item I wanted to write about is the World Baseball Classic. I like the event, but I am just not sure of its timing. It is fun to watch the games on tv, and see how excited and passionate the fans are for their players, their teams, and their countries. Well, most of the fans are that way, but I am still waiting for the USA songs and chants. Although I enjoy this event, can we tighten up the rules on who can play for what countries? Teams have guys playing for them that have never set foot in that country. Alex Rodriguez had played for the USA 3 years ago and was planning on playing for the Dominican Republic for this classic. I do have an issue with the big advertisements on the jerseys. If they are a requirement, can they at least be more tasteful. That is one big ugly and intrusive Best Buy patch. I'm sure they are happy with the result...I noticed it! I won't let any of that discourage me from watching or enjoying the games.
One last comment for now. Thank you to every person that has served or is serving our country. A good friend of mine was called back to duty from the reserves. He has been taken from his young family to help protect our freedom, and assist others to attain freedom. We never understand their sacrifice fully, but we do recognize more when it gets close to us. Thank you!
March 3, 2009
Two Weeks Equals Many Thoughts...
It's been almost two weeks, so I'm disappointed in myself. It's been a hectic week or so at work and I've been doing taxes for me and my family. Thanks to the move last year, I'm doing our taxes for a couple of states. I've done this before, but Ohio and Pennsylvania make it a bit more difficult than previous states. I love them for it...and I said nothing under my breath. Seriously though, shouldn't there be an easier way for a person to do their own taxes? Funny thing is, I like to do them. I usually do them utilizing various forms and to see which way is best. Anyways, thanks to my absence, I have several things to cover in sports and life in general.
I was ticked at the national media and many others reporting that Ken Griffey Jr. was getting to go home again. This was aggravating to me on several levels. To me, his home is Cincinnati. He did get to go home in 2000. The city and most Reds' fans expected him to carry them to a World Series title. He played hard, but he was oft injured. His injuries never allowed him to fulfill this promise of hope. Reds' fans everywhere blame him for the team's pitiful performance during his tenure. They are wrong, but don't ask about the rest of the team at that time. I don't think he was ever treated like the home town hero, but I think he should have been. He left it all on the field...bits and pieces all over the field. I then decided that he should be in Pittsburgh, it is the closest MLB city to his birthplace of Donora, PA. It would definitely make my job easier if he came here. I decided to let it go when I thought about where he has really called home for the last couple of decades...Florida, near Orlando, and I don't want him to be a Tampa Bay Ray.
What's the big deal with the Grammy's? Do that many people still go to the movies? Yes, I know they do. I still haven't figured out what it takes to win these awards. It seems to be the most popular person at the moment, the most unique story, or the longest running loser or also-ran that gets the nod. They have the Red Carpet Event on the way into the awards show. They make sure to inform all of the viewers of the designers clothing, loosely translated, they are wearing. Who among us can actually even hope to buy the items they wear? The ladies turn every which way, hoping they are showing their best side...sometimes literally, sometimes their lack of a side or any other ounce of meat. Don't get me wrong, there are many photos that I look at twice. These are some beautiful people...
Michel Therrien was fired by the Penguins less than 9 months after taking them to the Stanley Cup Finals. They were said to be a year or two away last year, but there they were in the finals against the Red Wings. They were playing well despite many new players and several injuries to start the season, but they fell apart for a two week span. I thought the Pens were reacting too quickly and this change was going to hurt more than help. The Pens replaced Therrien with Dan Bylsma and the Penguins have been on fire...shows how much I know. I might have written much more to criticize the move, but the delayed post allowed me to withhold too quick a judgement.
Quick Hits...
What the heck is going on in the world when people take an 18 month old to a drug deal? Doing drugs is crazy on its own merits, but to bring an innocent into harm's way???
Was there really a chance that Texas Tech was going to let Mike Leach get away? I hope to post about Leach at some point. He is a very interesting character.
Manny and the Dodgers should be announcing a deal soon. Thankfully, the saga is over...for now!
The Columbus Blue Jackets are firmly in the NHL playoff picture at the moment. Really???
The economy will be turning it around and head in a positive direction beginning next Friday. Be patient this next week and don't be left behind!
The NHL Trade Deadline is tomorrow. The NHL's website is the best of any league and they cover the sport incredibly well. Check it out on the link.
Some Grizzly married Adriana Lima within the last 2 weeks. God bless the guy!
I will be posting at least 2 times per week, otherwise I shouldn't be doing it at all. Some of you may be saying that already, but I plan to work through it.
I was ticked at the national media and many others reporting that Ken Griffey Jr. was getting to go home again. This was aggravating to me on several levels. To me, his home is Cincinnati. He did get to go home in 2000. The city and most Reds' fans expected him to carry them to a World Series title. He played hard, but he was oft injured. His injuries never allowed him to fulfill this promise of hope. Reds' fans everywhere blame him for the team's pitiful performance during his tenure. They are wrong, but don't ask about the rest of the team at that time. I don't think he was ever treated like the home town hero, but I think he should have been. He left it all on the field...bits and pieces all over the field. I then decided that he should be in Pittsburgh, it is the closest MLB city to his birthplace of Donora, PA. It would definitely make my job easier if he came here. I decided to let it go when I thought about where he has really called home for the last couple of decades...Florida, near Orlando, and I don't want him to be a Tampa Bay Ray.
What's the big deal with the Grammy's? Do that many people still go to the movies? Yes, I know they do. I still haven't figured out what it takes to win these awards. It seems to be the most popular person at the moment, the most unique story, or the longest running loser or also-ran that gets the nod. They have the Red Carpet Event on the way into the awards show. They make sure to inform all of the viewers of the designers clothing, loosely translated, they are wearing. Who among us can actually even hope to buy the items they wear? The ladies turn every which way, hoping they are showing their best side...sometimes literally, sometimes their lack of a side or any other ounce of meat. Don't get me wrong, there are many photos that I look at twice. These are some beautiful people...
Michel Therrien was fired by the Penguins less than 9 months after taking them to the Stanley Cup Finals. They were said to be a year or two away last year, but there they were in the finals against the Red Wings. They were playing well despite many new players and several injuries to start the season, but they fell apart for a two week span. I thought the Pens were reacting too quickly and this change was going to hurt more than help. The Pens replaced Therrien with Dan Bylsma and the Penguins have been on fire...shows how much I know. I might have written much more to criticize the move, but the delayed post allowed me to withhold too quick a judgement.
Quick Hits...
What the heck is going on in the world when people take an 18 month old to a drug deal? Doing drugs is crazy on its own merits, but to bring an innocent into harm's way???
Was there really a chance that Texas Tech was going to let Mike Leach get away? I hope to post about Leach at some point. He is a very interesting character.
Manny and the Dodgers should be announcing a deal soon. Thankfully, the saga is over...for now!
The Columbus Blue Jackets are firmly in the NHL playoff picture at the moment. Really???
The economy will be turning it around and head in a positive direction beginning next Friday. Be patient this next week and don't be left behind!
The NHL Trade Deadline is tomorrow. The NHL's website is the best of any league and they cover the sport incredibly well. Check it out on the link.
Some Grizzly married Adriana Lima within the last 2 weeks. God bless the guy!
I will be posting at least 2 times per week, otherwise I shouldn't be doing it at all. Some of you may be saying that already, but I plan to work through it.
February 20, 2009
Guilt and Regret or a Bigger Mess? Two Tales...
First, thanks for the encouraging notes. I am enjoying this so far. I only wish I knew a little more about the site and how to create things within it. I am learning. I found out how to link to a blog that I've read for quite some time (Hal's Blog is causing some trouble with the address right now) and one that I just discovered a couple of days ago. These guys have some good info and provide enjoyable reads.
Darin asked that I write about Alex Rodriguez. I wanted to write something, but it seemed too easy a subject and it already had too much media play. What could I add? It may not be unique, but here is my take.
Although I wish all sports were clean and played on even ground, you can't expect ALL athletes to ignore opportunities that might enable them to get an edge on the competition...an opportunity to maximize earnings. I had hoped A-Rod was clean, and I expected him to have an excuse or reason for the failed test. That's the norm, right? I was disappointed when he admitted using steroids, but I was relieved that he was owning up to his disregard of the law and our idea of fair play.
I'm glad I waited to comment. Like many people, I was ready to give Rodriguez his props for "admitting" what he had done. I thought there were many loose ends in the initial interview and admittance of guilt, but he'd clear that up when he collected himself. He did all of that and more when he decided to tell all...oops! I learned as a child that it would require many additional lies to cover up one lie. Rodriguez may need a math degree to figure the total he'll need. His stories continue to reveal more holes than a water-filled calender. Why didn't he just admit guilt and move on??? We did not need the cousin. We did not need a specific type of steroid. Honest and simple would have sufficed for most, and the rest could spin their wheels trying to dig deeper on their own.
Another super star in the sports world admitted to wrong doing this week. Charles Barkley returned to TNT's coverage of the NBA on Thursday. He took some time off after being caught driving under the influence in early January. His blood alcohol level was almost twice the legal limit. In his return, he issued an apology and admitted HIS error. He did not blame anyone else for his misconduct. Was he sincere or was this just the right way to play it? I believe he was sincere, but I want to believe him.
Any good PR person would have you choose the latter approach to public apology. People will accept Barkley's apology quicker than the multitude of excuses and reasons provided by A-Rod during his press conference. No matter the excuses, reasons, amount of details, or how liked the individual may be; not a single one of us know what is truly in the heart of either man. Only they know; and only they have to live with their conscience. Good luck to both of them.
Darin asked that I write about Alex Rodriguez. I wanted to write something, but it seemed too easy a subject and it already had too much media play. What could I add? It may not be unique, but here is my take.
Although I wish all sports were clean and played on even ground, you can't expect ALL athletes to ignore opportunities that might enable them to get an edge on the competition...an opportunity to maximize earnings. I had hoped A-Rod was clean, and I expected him to have an excuse or reason for the failed test. That's the norm, right? I was disappointed when he admitted using steroids, but I was relieved that he was owning up to his disregard of the law and our idea of fair play.
I'm glad I waited to comment. Like many people, I was ready to give Rodriguez his props for "admitting" what he had done. I thought there were many loose ends in the initial interview and admittance of guilt, but he'd clear that up when he collected himself. He did all of that and more when he decided to tell all...oops! I learned as a child that it would require many additional lies to cover up one lie. Rodriguez may need a math degree to figure the total he'll need. His stories continue to reveal more holes than a water-filled calender. Why didn't he just admit guilt and move on??? We did not need the cousin. We did not need a specific type of steroid. Honest and simple would have sufficed for most, and the rest could spin their wheels trying to dig deeper on their own.
Another super star in the sports world admitted to wrong doing this week. Charles Barkley returned to TNT's coverage of the NBA on Thursday. He took some time off after being caught driving under the influence in early January. His blood alcohol level was almost twice the legal limit. In his return, he issued an apology and admitted HIS error. He did not blame anyone else for his misconduct. Was he sincere or was this just the right way to play it? I believe he was sincere, but I want to believe him.
Any good PR person would have you choose the latter approach to public apology. People will accept Barkley's apology quicker than the multitude of excuses and reasons provided by A-Rod during his press conference. No matter the excuses, reasons, amount of details, or how liked the individual may be; not a single one of us know what is truly in the heart of either man. Only they know; and only they have to live with their conscience. Good luck to both of them.
February 15, 2009
Loaded Weekend
This weekend has been somewhat eventful. The NBA is enjoying their All-Star break with all sorts of activities. NASCAR's Daytona 500 begins the second longest season for any sport. The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am is now delaying the final round until Monday (golf has the longest season if my calculations are correct). I think I mentioned that spring training started yesterday for pitchers and catchers, and shame on any of you that figured baseball had the longest season of sports.
I usually watch the events put together by the Association for their all-star break. They are enjoyable and translate well to television on most accounts. Although Daequan Cook won the 3-Point Shooting Contest, can we get someone to score over 20 points again? As entertaining as most of the Slam Dunk Contest was, we need to fix the scoring. Although he would have been no match in the finals, Rudy Fernandez' first dunk was better than many that received 50's later in the event. Seriously, he threw the ball behind his back...off the backboard to the opposite side of the rim...and threw it down with authority. I have issues with all competitions that are decided by random scores provided by a judge's opinion. We'll talk about gymnastics, diving, cheerleading, and a few other so-called sports another day.
I enjoyed the theatrics provided by both Nate Robinson, the champion, and Dwight Howard. Is there a nicer or more likable guy in the NBA than Dwight Howard? Maybe D-Wade? I am a bit disgruntled with a lot of people that are paid to announce sports, but the crew of Kevin Harlan, Kenny Smith and Reggie Miller were great during their TNT coverage last night. I don't agree with everything they said, but I was informed and entertained. I hope the actual game is not overwhelmed by Craig Sager's traditionally ugly suits. By the way, I miss the dominant throw-downs of Dominique Wilkins.
Rain eliminated the last quarter of the Daytona 500, but a very deserving driver was the beneficiary. Matt Kenseth was pushed to the lead just before the rains came and caused the race to be called after 152 of 200 laps were completed. NASCAR on FOX is an entertaining watch, but keep that Digger Critter off the screen every couple of minutes. Can he be smaller than the cars driving behind him or get out of my way? My kids enjoyed him though, so maybe I should lighten up on Digger. I still wonder about car racing being categorized as a sport, but there is definitely some athletic ability and strategy involved in this competition. I hate to drive for more than an hour with changing scenery and much less to worry about, unless you count state police and what the heck the kids are doing in the backseat. I'll still watch 'em run around in circles for most of their races. I'm hooked on this stuff...
I usually watch the events put together by the Association for their all-star break. They are enjoyable and translate well to television on most accounts. Although Daequan Cook won the 3-Point Shooting Contest, can we get someone to score over 20 points again? As entertaining as most of the Slam Dunk Contest was, we need to fix the scoring. Although he would have been no match in the finals, Rudy Fernandez' first dunk was better than many that received 50's later in the event. Seriously, he threw the ball behind his back...off the backboard to the opposite side of the rim...and threw it down with authority. I have issues with all competitions that are decided by random scores provided by a judge's opinion. We'll talk about gymnastics, diving, cheerleading, and a few other so-called sports another day.
I enjoyed the theatrics provided by both Nate Robinson, the champion, and Dwight Howard. Is there a nicer or more likable guy in the NBA than Dwight Howard? Maybe D-Wade? I am a bit disgruntled with a lot of people that are paid to announce sports, but the crew of Kevin Harlan, Kenny Smith and Reggie Miller were great during their TNT coverage last night. I don't agree with everything they said, but I was informed and entertained. I hope the actual game is not overwhelmed by Craig Sager's traditionally ugly suits. By the way, I miss the dominant throw-downs of Dominique Wilkins.
Rain eliminated the last quarter of the Daytona 500, but a very deserving driver was the beneficiary. Matt Kenseth was pushed to the lead just before the rains came and caused the race to be called after 152 of 200 laps were completed. NASCAR on FOX is an entertaining watch, but keep that Digger Critter off the screen every couple of minutes. Can he be smaller than the cars driving behind him or get out of my way? My kids enjoyed him though, so maybe I should lighten up on Digger. I still wonder about car racing being categorized as a sport, but there is definitely some athletic ability and strategy involved in this competition. I hate to drive for more than an hour with changing scenery and much less to worry about, unless you count state police and what the heck the kids are doing in the backseat. I'll still watch 'em run around in circles for most of their races. I'm hooked on this stuff...
February 13, 2009
13...The Beginning
So I am finally going to write something. I have a lot to learn on the publishing side, but you can probably see that in the note about me. I'm sure I'll figure out paragraphs and such soon.
I LOVE BASEBALL! Although the NFL has taken over the country and seems to dominate the sports scene in the U.S., baseball is our national sport and still tops my list. The Canadians had this issue with lacrosse and hockey, although several years ago, hockey was added as a national sport there in an act of parliament.
Back to my initial thought... Pitchers and catchers report tomorrow, which happens to be Valentines Day. With all due respect to Gretchen French and Melinda Wallace from gradeschool in Augusta, BASEBALL was my first love. I remember playing in blue jeans and t-shirts on an old field at the end of second street. I had to convince my friend Tony that I needed to play shortstop in the "real games." I needed to be Dave Concepcion. We also played 2 against 2 in the back yard of an old church. Left Field was closed to make the game somewhat competitive and it may have taught us to hit the other way. We were about 6 years old, so this game wasn't that hard. I never felt more at home or more at peace than I did back in those days. As I grew up and moved back to the Dayton area, things continued to get more difficult at home, in school, in life. Baseball was always there, even if it was not as pure as those days in Augusta.
As you could guess, my favorite number is 13. Today is a Friday the 13th and baseball starts fresh tomorrow. I started blogging tonight because it seemed like the right time to do something new, something fresh. I will not post every day, but I hope to post a few times a week. Here's to the Reds having a successful season and for everyone to remember their own baseball or your own first love.
I LOVE BASEBALL! Although the NFL has taken over the country and seems to dominate the sports scene in the U.S., baseball is our national sport and still tops my list. The Canadians had this issue with lacrosse and hockey, although several years ago, hockey was added as a national sport there in an act of parliament.
Back to my initial thought... Pitchers and catchers report tomorrow, which happens to be Valentines Day. With all due respect to Gretchen French and Melinda Wallace from gradeschool in Augusta, BASEBALL was my first love. I remember playing in blue jeans and t-shirts on an old field at the end of second street. I had to convince my friend Tony that I needed to play shortstop in the "real games." I needed to be Dave Concepcion. We also played 2 against 2 in the back yard of an old church. Left Field was closed to make the game somewhat competitive and it may have taught us to hit the other way. We were about 6 years old, so this game wasn't that hard. I never felt more at home or more at peace than I did back in those days. As I grew up and moved back to the Dayton area, things continued to get more difficult at home, in school, in life. Baseball was always there, even if it was not as pure as those days in Augusta.
As you could guess, my favorite number is 13. Today is a Friday the 13th and baseball starts fresh tomorrow. I started blogging tonight because it seemed like the right time to do something new, something fresh. I will not post every day, but I hope to post a few times a week. Here's to the Reds having a successful season and for everyone to remember their own baseball or your own first love.
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