All the time we see athletes promoting national brands like Nike, Adidas, Foot Locker, etc. It seems that inevitably these individuals either follow these huge endorsement deals with a DUI charge, sex scandal, or bar brawl. So it was refreshing when I turned on the tube the other day (for the first time in almost a week!)and saw a commercial featuring Houston Texans' wideout Andre Johnson.
I know some of you may be thinking, he's good, but who cares? That's exactly the point! A lot of people don't know of Andre Johnson's talent because he plays on a mediocre team in a tough division, and because he hasn't shot himself, driven drunk, or gotten mixed up with the wrong crowd.
Here's the skinny on Johnson: At the University of Miami, he was a two sport standout in football and track and field. He was an all-American wide receiver and MVP of the 2002 Rose Bowl where he caught 2 touchdowns and racked up 199 yards receiving. Then he went to the draft. After being picked 3rd by the Texans, he fired his agents and brought his uncle in to deal with his contract negotiations. Uh-oh! Here comes that rookie contract thing again! But wait, Johnson had his deal worked out in time for mini camp. You mean some stars actually want to play football? What a shock!
In his 6 year NFL career, Johnson has made 3 pro bowls and been chosen as all-Pro twice, including last season. Although he has battled injuries in 2005 and 2007, he has consistently been productive, last year leading the league in receptions and yards. His touchdown numbers are somewhat lacking, most likely due to playing with the Texans (although the team is quickly improving). But have you ever heard Johnson's name on Sportscenter screaming at his coaches on the sideline or in the media about how he never gets the ball? That's what I thought.
So yeah, it may just be a regular commercial for receiving gloves sold at Dick's. But it is good to see that Johnson's hard work has paid off. Here's an athlete that should get a brighter piece of the spotlight.
August 21, 2009
August 6, 2009
Do What You Love, Love What You Do
Most people are called to their profession. Many of your mentors, parents, older siblings have probably told you to find your passion and to make your profession a vocation. The simplest and most natural reason to make your profession is the mantra "Do what you love and love what you do". It doesn't take a psychologist to figure out that one is more fulfilled in a profession that they love. Many of us have guides along the way that are able to help you discover your passions. It is great to have an "adviser" to helps us develop within our profession. But for some reason it seems that the sports world has a knack for attracting bad career advisers.
This was brought to my attention by an ESPN article that quoted wide receiver Michael Crabtree's cousin and adviser David Wells saying that Crabtree was prepared to sit out the season if he was not payed more. What happened to the guys that just wanted to get out on the field? Later in the article Crabtree's agent asserted that no threats had been made from his side toward the 49ers (the team that drafted Crabtree last April). Who is this guy, Jerry Maguire? Since when has an agent seemed like the voice of reason? I'm sure I just have a bias towards agents because all I hear is Scott Boras and Drew Rosenhaus defending ridiculous contacts and sleez balls. I'm sure most agents are perfectly reasonable people, I even had a friend in high school whose dad is a big-time agent, but I just have never seen the profession as the beacon of truth in a dark world.
Anyway, what is this cousin thinking? If he wanted the best for Michael, wouldn't he want him playing? Does he not realize the history of athletes taking a year off? Maurice Clarett anyone? For those of you that haven't heard, Clarett is currently serving a prison sentence for armed robbery. Taking a year off seems to be just the right thing! Here's an idea Michael: play the game you love to play! Every time I have seen Crabtree interviewed he has seemed a decent fellow, so I hope that this is just a guy out blowing hot air. But I am more concerned about the trend that seems to be growing in sports of bad advisers.
In Kansas City, Chiefs fans had to deal with Larry Johnson getting caught up with the wrong crowd. Michael Vick can point to his old "friends" for getting him involved with the dog-fighting schemes. I am not trying in any way to take the heat off either of those two for their decisions, they have both done incredibly stupid things, but it's a lot easier not to have to say no. How many times have you heard of schools caught up in recruiting scandals because these "advisers" pop up and buy all sorts of new stuff for these athletes? The NCAA should do as much as it possibly can to avoid these moronic people from meddling in the affairs of these athletes. And it starts in high school now too! I can't imagine going under the microscope that NCAA athletes have to go through to maintain eligibility. It is time that the NCAA helped to shield athletes from people who can ruin their lives.
In closing, I will admit that I don't have the slightest idea what the NCAA should do about this, but I also think that in order for athletes to get back to playing the game that they love, it would sure help if the NCAA could help eliminate some of the outside pressure exerted upon them.
This was brought to my attention by an ESPN article that quoted wide receiver Michael Crabtree's cousin and adviser David Wells saying that Crabtree was prepared to sit out the season if he was not payed more. What happened to the guys that just wanted to get out on the field? Later in the article Crabtree's agent asserted that no threats had been made from his side toward the 49ers (the team that drafted Crabtree last April). Who is this guy, Jerry Maguire? Since when has an agent seemed like the voice of reason? I'm sure I just have a bias towards agents because all I hear is Scott Boras and Drew Rosenhaus defending ridiculous contacts and sleez balls. I'm sure most agents are perfectly reasonable people, I even had a friend in high school whose dad is a big-time agent, but I just have never seen the profession as the beacon of truth in a dark world.
Anyway, what is this cousin thinking? If he wanted the best for Michael, wouldn't he want him playing? Does he not realize the history of athletes taking a year off? Maurice Clarett anyone? For those of you that haven't heard, Clarett is currently serving a prison sentence for armed robbery. Taking a year off seems to be just the right thing! Here's an idea Michael: play the game you love to play! Every time I have seen Crabtree interviewed he has seemed a decent fellow, so I hope that this is just a guy out blowing hot air. But I am more concerned about the trend that seems to be growing in sports of bad advisers.
In Kansas City, Chiefs fans had to deal with Larry Johnson getting caught up with the wrong crowd. Michael Vick can point to his old "friends" for getting him involved with the dog-fighting schemes. I am not trying in any way to take the heat off either of those two for their decisions, they have both done incredibly stupid things, but it's a lot easier not to have to say no. How many times have you heard of schools caught up in recruiting scandals because these "advisers" pop up and buy all sorts of new stuff for these athletes? The NCAA should do as much as it possibly can to avoid these moronic people from meddling in the affairs of these athletes. And it starts in high school now too! I can't imagine going under the microscope that NCAA athletes have to go through to maintain eligibility. It is time that the NCAA helped to shield athletes from people who can ruin their lives.
In closing, I will admit that I don't have the slightest idea what the NCAA should do about this, but I also think that in order for athletes to get back to playing the game that they love, it would sure help if the NCAA could help eliminate some of the outside pressure exerted upon them.
August 4, 2009
Dream Big
It is a valuable lesson to learn to dream big. I think part of growing up is getting back to childhood. It seems like the 1st stage of most lives is a childhood of dreams and play; one of my favorite authors calls this the Beloved Son stage (he writes to a male audience). Part of the second stage is a tempering of these dreams, and we're bombarded with phrases like "yeah, but..." and "but you have to...". Realism is a very necessary thing in life, but I think that we also have to regain a little of that ambition from our childhood in order to find our place in the world, and especially our vocation. All that said, I think it is important to have great hope. And so, I want to share a little of my hope for the Chiefs' season approaching.
I was watching an AFC West preview video that I think was from a previous edition of NFL Live on ESPN. Anyway, Trey Wingo asked Cris Carter and Mark Schlereth who they thought might be able to contend with the San Diego Chargers for the AFC West title. While both agreed that the title is all but in name going to the Chargers, they pointed out why the Raiders and Broncos will do poorly this year. Specifically because JaMarcus Russell has not shown the necessary maturity and the already terrible Broncos defense is switching to a 3-4 scheme that fits their personnel even less. It brought to mind a glimmer of hope. The Chiefs are the only team that has shown marked improvement this year! Despite losing All-Pro Tony Gonzalez, the Chiefs have added a new quarterback, offensive line help, and a new defensive end projecting to be successful in a 3-4 scheme. Not to mention that the 3-4 scheme was put in place so that the Chiefs could improve on their biggest weakness of last season: defensive pressure on the quarterback.
I think that Scott Pioli and Todd Haley understand this opportunity very well. I was impressed when I went on ESPN this afternoon and found out that the Chiefs had signed veteran wide-receiver Amani Toomer. I will confess that I have always liked Toomer probably a little more than he deserves, but I still find this to be an important signing because it gives Matt Cassel another threat, and because defenses might not be able to stack the box on Larry Johnson quite as much on 1st and 2nd down. I think an improved offense could make a significant improvement in defensive performance as well. Several times last year the defense seemed to just get worn down and not be able to stop opposing teams in the 2nd half. I'm not saying that this might not happen again this year, but it would certainly help if the offense were out there giving the defensive guys a tad more rest.
I am very happy with the new regime in Kansas City, and I'm sure they understand that this year may provide a unique opportunity to rebuild the image of this franchise, and could play an instrumental role in building for the future.
I was watching an AFC West preview video that I think was from a previous edition of NFL Live on ESPN. Anyway, Trey Wingo asked Cris Carter and Mark Schlereth who they thought might be able to contend with the San Diego Chargers for the AFC West title. While both agreed that the title is all but in name going to the Chargers, they pointed out why the Raiders and Broncos will do poorly this year. Specifically because JaMarcus Russell has not shown the necessary maturity and the already terrible Broncos defense is switching to a 3-4 scheme that fits their personnel even less. It brought to mind a glimmer of hope. The Chiefs are the only team that has shown marked improvement this year! Despite losing All-Pro Tony Gonzalez, the Chiefs have added a new quarterback, offensive line help, and a new defensive end projecting to be successful in a 3-4 scheme. Not to mention that the 3-4 scheme was put in place so that the Chiefs could improve on their biggest weakness of last season: defensive pressure on the quarterback.
I think that Scott Pioli and Todd Haley understand this opportunity very well. I was impressed when I went on ESPN this afternoon and found out that the Chiefs had signed veteran wide-receiver Amani Toomer. I will confess that I have always liked Toomer probably a little more than he deserves, but I still find this to be an important signing because it gives Matt Cassel another threat, and because defenses might not be able to stack the box on Larry Johnson quite as much on 1st and 2nd down. I think an improved offense could make a significant improvement in defensive performance as well. Several times last year the defense seemed to just get worn down and not be able to stop opposing teams in the 2nd half. I'm not saying that this might not happen again this year, but it would certainly help if the offense were out there giving the defensive guys a tad more rest.
I am very happy with the new regime in Kansas City, and I'm sure they understand that this year may provide a unique opportunity to rebuild the image of this franchise, and could play an instrumental role in building for the future.
August 2, 2009
That's Just About Right
I am writing this post after watching baseball most of today as I was trying to recuperate from a 12 hour security shift. I am currently sitting down to watch "The Shawshank Redemption." Aside from having to work for the first twelve hours of this lovely day, I would call this a perfect Sabbath. I had good fish for dinner, Foo's custard for dessert, and one of the greatest movies ever. There is something beautiful about Morgan Freeman's voice now. Something that is bringing today to a perfect end. Even with the intolerable cruelty of that prison, there is something comforting about this movie right now. Watching baseball today was my release, I had just tested myself by going a week without television.
That week was needed, it brought me back to where I should be. I got back to focusing on my relationship with the One who wants a relationship with me, instead of watching my life float away with all of the filth TV I would occupy the days with. Baseball is unlike any other sport in that sense. Even on TV, you feel it. A few weeks ago I was reading a Sports Illustrated article celebrating the 20th anniversary of Field of Dreams. In it the director of the film made sense of the film. Said it wasn't about religion or faith, it was about baseball. It's about time with fathers and friends playing a game that gets in your bones, all the way down to the marrow.
Kind of like this movie. It sinks in. You believe in Andy Dufresne. He's your friend too. And in an odd way, his journey is a tiny glimpse of our own. We feel free too. Isn't that what the Sabbath is? Freedom? Yeah, free to be me; free to be His.
That week was needed, it brought me back to where I should be. I got back to focusing on my relationship with the One who wants a relationship with me, instead of watching my life float away with all of the filth TV I would occupy the days with. Baseball is unlike any other sport in that sense. Even on TV, you feel it. A few weeks ago I was reading a Sports Illustrated article celebrating the 20th anniversary of Field of Dreams. In it the director of the film made sense of the film. Said it wasn't about religion or faith, it was about baseball. It's about time with fathers and friends playing a game that gets in your bones, all the way down to the marrow.
Kind of like this movie. It sinks in. You believe in Andy Dufresne. He's your friend too. And in an odd way, his journey is a tiny glimpse of our own. We feel free too. Isn't that what the Sabbath is? Freedom? Yeah, free to be me; free to be His.
Vision
Since I haven't done a purely scout related post in a little while, here is one. I was reading a terrific book recently, called Wild Goose Chase, and toward the tail end of the book he raised the point of having a vision for yourself and your vocation. Not sure why this got me started on how important I feel a long-term plan for a sports franchise is, but that's what I connected. I also thought about that phrase I and so many other scouts have heard countless times, our motto: Be Prepared. Especially as a Chiefs fan, these ideas seem particularly important as the franchise puts together a new front office and coaching staff.
One certainly has to be impressed by Scott Pioli's organizational pedigree with the New England Patriots. That said, many experts give Bill Belichick and the Kraft family most of the credit for resurrecting the Patriots franchise. Especially in later years, the Patriots have been able to let go of star players and replace them with new (and cheaper) talent. While the Patriots' model is commendable and has shown extraordinary results, a 2-14 franchise has a much taller mountain to climb to return to prominence. I hope that Pioli has a vision for the Chiefs organization, and is prepared to keep to that plan despite minor setbacks.
This is how my scout leaders have always explained the motto as being prepared for an activity or plan, so that if all goes well, it will succeed. But they have also expressed that it NEVER happens as you planned, but a prepared person has not only thought about the potential pitfalls, but is better able to react to the ones that are not foreseeable. For example, no one could see Michael Vick getting thrown out of the league for a fighting pitbull ring that he ran under the table for years. As the star player for the Falcons franchise, the loss of Vick was devestating to the team. But it was made all the more devestating because the front office was not prepared to handle a PR nightmare.
I feel bad singling out the Falcons, especially since they seem to have righted the ship since then, but I sincerely believe that their plan of action after the scandal broke was horrific. They hired an inexperienced coach from the college ranks, knowing that college coaches typically do not adjust well to the NFL, and then were surprised when that coach bailed for more money at the University of Arkansas. Don't get me wrong, I think Bobby Petrino is lower than dirt, but I could of told them that before they hired him! It's why I wouldn't hire Nick Saban either. Both coaches only care about enhancing their own reputation. That's where being prepared starts: putting trust into trustworthy people. I truly believe that Todd Haley is a talented coach, especially on the offense, but I hope that Pioli has developed enough of a character sketch of Haley to trust his judgment fully.
Pioli has a great city with one of the most loyal fan bases in the league behind him. If he shows early on that his and Haley's vision will turn around this disoriented franchise, I'm sure he will be well on his way to fulfilling his own goals in life. And hey, who said making thousands of Midwesterners proud of a once-great franchise again isn't a meaninful enterprise? I'm pretty sure I would sign up for that job if I had the talent.
One certainly has to be impressed by Scott Pioli's organizational pedigree with the New England Patriots. That said, many experts give Bill Belichick and the Kraft family most of the credit for resurrecting the Patriots franchise. Especially in later years, the Patriots have been able to let go of star players and replace them with new (and cheaper) talent. While the Patriots' model is commendable and has shown extraordinary results, a 2-14 franchise has a much taller mountain to climb to return to prominence. I hope that Pioli has a vision for the Chiefs organization, and is prepared to keep to that plan despite minor setbacks.
This is how my scout leaders have always explained the motto as being prepared for an activity or plan, so that if all goes well, it will succeed. But they have also expressed that it NEVER happens as you planned, but a prepared person has not only thought about the potential pitfalls, but is better able to react to the ones that are not foreseeable. For example, no one could see Michael Vick getting thrown out of the league for a fighting pitbull ring that he ran under the table for years. As the star player for the Falcons franchise, the loss of Vick was devestating to the team. But it was made all the more devestating because the front office was not prepared to handle a PR nightmare.
I feel bad singling out the Falcons, especially since they seem to have righted the ship since then, but I sincerely believe that their plan of action after the scandal broke was horrific. They hired an inexperienced coach from the college ranks, knowing that college coaches typically do not adjust well to the NFL, and then were surprised when that coach bailed for more money at the University of Arkansas. Don't get me wrong, I think Bobby Petrino is lower than dirt, but I could of told them that before they hired him! It's why I wouldn't hire Nick Saban either. Both coaches only care about enhancing their own reputation. That's where being prepared starts: putting trust into trustworthy people. I truly believe that Todd Haley is a talented coach, especially on the offense, but I hope that Pioli has developed enough of a character sketch of Haley to trust his judgment fully.
Pioli has a great city with one of the most loyal fan bases in the league behind him. If he shows early on that his and Haley's vision will turn around this disoriented franchise, I'm sure he will be well on his way to fulfilling his own goals in life. And hey, who said making thousands of Midwesterners proud of a once-great franchise again isn't a meaninful enterprise? I'm pretty sure I would sign up for that job if I had the talent.
July 31, 2009
The Best Race After the Trade Deadline
If Royals fans are looking for something to brag about, since we clearly can't about our team anymore, and it seems that even Zack Greinke gets robbed of a win every time he goes to the mound (He's still having a Cy Young type year by the way, just doesn't have the wins to prove it), they can now boast one of the greatest divisional races heading toward the playoffs. The Central divisions in both leagues are pretty tight, but you can tell from today's activity that the AL Central's 3 contenders aren't going to go down without a fight.
I must say that I was almost going to write a post about how boring today was for baseball fans, and how overhyped today usually is. But after returning from some errands, it turned out to be a pretty exciting day, especially in the AL Central. The day started with the division leading Tigers acquiring lefty Jarrod Washburn from the Seattle Mariners for two left-handed pitching prospects. Washburn will provide a much needed lefty option for the Tigers' starting rotation, and though his 8-6 record doesn't wow you, his 3rd place ERA of 2.64 (3rd in the AL) should turn people's heads. Even more promising for the Tigers is that in his last 5 starts, opponents have only scored 3 runs against him. With Verlander seemingly back to his old form and the addition of a lefty, the Tigers rotation is certainly a force to be reckoned with and it would not be a surprise if they were able to pull away from the division's competition.
Not to be outdone the Chicago White Sox added depth to their starting rotation as well. Although they gave up 4 pitchers to finalize the trade (Only 1 has played in the Majors thus far), the White Sox were able to get Jake Peavy out of his no-trade clause. With Mark Buerhle throwing well right now, and number 2 and 3 starters John Danks and Gavin Floyd pitching a little better than their career ERAs this year, the White Sox rotation was already decent, but the addition of Peavy makes it way above average. More importantly, the 1-2 of Buerhle and Peavy (or the other way I guess) will be quite formidable if the White Sox do end up making the playoffs. If you're a White Sox fan, I would think that you would consider Jake Peavy worth trading 4 players, especially if some of the prospects are not impressing the organization, but it still seems like a lot to give up for a 6-6 pitcher with a 3.97 ERA. We'll see how that gamble pays off, I just don't know if Peavy closes the gap as the White Sox are currently in 3rd place.
Finally, the Twins made an uncharacteristic deadline move (this is their first big deadline trade since 2003), and actually brought in a fairly big name in Orlando Cabrera. Cabrera could be a classic Twins good-not-special player that just works hard for the team and gets things done. Although only an average fielder, most would not consider him a liability defensively, and he is a solid hitter at .280/.318 (BA/OBP). Although this is probably the least glitzy of the trades, I think it could prove to be quite valuable. The Twins are simply plugging a hole here and only gave up one player and got cash for Cabrera. With Joe Mauer second in average in the league, and Justin Morneau leading in homers, the Twins can look forward to being in the race for the long haul.
So as we Royals fans lament our disappointing season, and for all of you general baseball fans, look out for the race for the AL Central lead as only one team will probably make the postseason. My bet is on the Tigers with the addition of Washburn. Feel free to comment with your bets.
I must say that I was almost going to write a post about how boring today was for baseball fans, and how overhyped today usually is. But after returning from some errands, it turned out to be a pretty exciting day, especially in the AL Central. The day started with the division leading Tigers acquiring lefty Jarrod Washburn from the Seattle Mariners for two left-handed pitching prospects. Washburn will provide a much needed lefty option for the Tigers' starting rotation, and though his 8-6 record doesn't wow you, his 3rd place ERA of 2.64 (3rd in the AL) should turn people's heads. Even more promising for the Tigers is that in his last 5 starts, opponents have only scored 3 runs against him. With Verlander seemingly back to his old form and the addition of a lefty, the Tigers rotation is certainly a force to be reckoned with and it would not be a surprise if they were able to pull away from the division's competition.
Not to be outdone the Chicago White Sox added depth to their starting rotation as well. Although they gave up 4 pitchers to finalize the trade (Only 1 has played in the Majors thus far), the White Sox were able to get Jake Peavy out of his no-trade clause. With Mark Buerhle throwing well right now, and number 2 and 3 starters John Danks and Gavin Floyd pitching a little better than their career ERAs this year, the White Sox rotation was already decent, but the addition of Peavy makes it way above average. More importantly, the 1-2 of Buerhle and Peavy (or the other way I guess) will be quite formidable if the White Sox do end up making the playoffs. If you're a White Sox fan, I would think that you would consider Jake Peavy worth trading 4 players, especially if some of the prospects are not impressing the organization, but it still seems like a lot to give up for a 6-6 pitcher with a 3.97 ERA. We'll see how that gamble pays off, I just don't know if Peavy closes the gap as the White Sox are currently in 3rd place.
Finally, the Twins made an uncharacteristic deadline move (this is their first big deadline trade since 2003), and actually brought in a fairly big name in Orlando Cabrera. Cabrera could be a classic Twins good-not-special player that just works hard for the team and gets things done. Although only an average fielder, most would not consider him a liability defensively, and he is a solid hitter at .280/.318 (BA/OBP). Although this is probably the least glitzy of the trades, I think it could prove to be quite valuable. The Twins are simply plugging a hole here and only gave up one player and got cash for Cabrera. With Joe Mauer second in average in the league, and Justin Morneau leading in homers, the Twins can look forward to being in the race for the long haul.
So as we Royals fans lament our disappointing season, and for all of you general baseball fans, look out for the race for the AL Central lead as only one team will probably make the postseason. My bet is on the Tigers with the addition of Washburn. Feel free to comment with your bets.
July 30, 2009
You Really Let Us Down
I'm sure many of you have already heard the news that David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez reportedly tested positive for performance enhancing drugs (PEDs) in 2003. Yes, it was technically not banned back then, but the hurt is not gone. I could honestly care less about Manny testing positive, because we already knew he did them, but I am awfully disappointed in Big Papi. Beyond the fact that he ruins the game by taking PEDs, I am more dismayed by the fact that he repeatedly said publicly that he was one of the good guys, that he was one of the ones you could look up to if you were a little leaguer. Big Papi is not even one of my favorite Red Sox players, but everyone likes to believe that their team does it right.
Finding out that your team's legacy may or even should be tainted is a very disappointing discovery. Honestly, I haven't reached any decisions about how I feel about the Red Sox 2004 Championship and what this news will do to that legacy. It hurts too much to even think about right now. But it certainly ruins my opinion of Big Papi.
Finally, I want to talk about our responsibility as fans of the game. Especially in cases like this, the league will not retroactively punish Ortiz, so I think it is our job to let him know how disappointing his actions were. If public disgrace is the only punishment Ortiz and other PED users will face, then it is our duty to at least make them pay for their crimes. Every time I hear about another player caught up in the news, it gets easier and easier for people to rag on baseball, and it wears on us. Baseball is a beautiful game. It would be great to see more players treat it as such.
Finding out that your team's legacy may or even should be tainted is a very disappointing discovery. Honestly, I haven't reached any decisions about how I feel about the Red Sox 2004 Championship and what this news will do to that legacy. It hurts too much to even think about right now. But it certainly ruins my opinion of Big Papi.
Finally, I want to talk about our responsibility as fans of the game. Especially in cases like this, the league will not retroactively punish Ortiz, so I think it is our job to let him know how disappointing his actions were. If public disgrace is the only punishment Ortiz and other PED users will face, then it is our duty to at least make them pay for their crimes. Every time I hear about another player caught up in the news, it gets easier and easier for people to rag on baseball, and it wears on us. Baseball is a beautiful game. It would be great to see more players treat it as such.
July 29, 2009
Superman
So, most people have known for a long time how long I have liked Tim Tebow. I am happy to know that aspiring athletes actually have someone to look up to and that he does it all the right way. It has kind of become a running joke among some of my friends that eventually Tebow will get busted on something and his image will be ruined. And that's exactly why I like him. He knows that a lot of people are looking for that flaw, that chink in the armor, but he still doesn't show it. Am I saying Tebow is a perfect guy? No. Nobody is. But he knows that because he is a role model he has to monitor his behavior.
Growing up, I had a ton of great role models. From friend's dads to scoutmasters, ski trip chaperones to teachers, when I met someone that could make a difference in my life, I tried as hard as I could to foster that relationship. And so, now that I am getting older, I guess it is sort of natural that I would want to be a mentor to the younger generation as well. Because of this, I never grow tired of stories of athletes being great role models. Even more, I am not looking for them to fail. It is easy to grow cynical about the greatness of sports when baseball is infected by steroids, and every college football champion seems to be questioned by BCS haters. So it never gets old to me when Albert Pujols, a guy who plays baseball the right way all the time, gets an MVP, or when Tebow's Gators win the National Title. Fan or not, I would rather people just be happy for people who have shown extraordinary ability and even more colossal effort.
I truly believe that Tebow will turn out to be the real deal. I'd put money on that. And I know that Tebow can handle all of this pressure because he is able to hand it off to someone a lot more powerful than he is. So, sure you can question whether Tebow has the strength and character to stay on the right track. But I know that every once in awhile, God sends these great people down to touch the lives of those that still dream, and I think that a few more of us need to help those dreams come true.
Growing up, I had a ton of great role models. From friend's dads to scoutmasters, ski trip chaperones to teachers, when I met someone that could make a difference in my life, I tried as hard as I could to foster that relationship. And so, now that I am getting older, I guess it is sort of natural that I would want to be a mentor to the younger generation as well. Because of this, I never grow tired of stories of athletes being great role models. Even more, I am not looking for them to fail. It is easy to grow cynical about the greatness of sports when baseball is infected by steroids, and every college football champion seems to be questioned by BCS haters. So it never gets old to me when Albert Pujols, a guy who plays baseball the right way all the time, gets an MVP, or when Tebow's Gators win the National Title. Fan or not, I would rather people just be happy for people who have shown extraordinary ability and even more colossal effort.
I truly believe that Tebow will turn out to be the real deal. I'd put money on that. And I know that Tebow can handle all of this pressure because he is able to hand it off to someone a lot more powerful than he is. So, sure you can question whether Tebow has the strength and character to stay on the right track. But I know that every once in awhile, God sends these great people down to touch the lives of those that still dream, and I think that a few more of us need to help those dreams come true.
July 28, 2009
Mixed Martial Arts
Many of my closest friends are not fans of Mixed Martial Arts (from here MMA), and in particular the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship). My mom outspokenly hates it. But I think that it is one of the most misunderstood sports. So without further ado, this is my defense of the sport.
MMA is more than just blood and guts all over the place. Was early MMA simply a brutal bloodsport? Sort of. But as the UFC has come under new ownership the sport as a whole has cleaned up considerably, thanks in part to seeking unified regulations. I'm not saying that there aren't huge cuts still being opened up, but if you take the time to watch the fighters, you can tell the intentions of the strikes are much cleaner now. There is a weight range similar to boxing which prevents unfair fights between a giant and a 155lb ninja from happening. No matter what people say the giant pretty much always crushes that small of a person. I think it is important to take in a fight and just see how skilled these fighters are.
I have always believed that sports point to something greater within us. I suppose that could be a brief synopsis of yesterday's post. And so that's where I started my debate with MMA. I thought that if I could feel inspired in some way by MMA, then I would indeed count it as a sport. And to me it points to one of the most basic and pure facets of humanity: Great things are worth fighting for. Maybe this doesn't do it for some people, but even if all these guys are fighting for is a gold belt and fame, it still captures my attention. One of my favorite fighters, the current welterweight champion, Georges St. Pierre, always says that he is currently fighting for his legacy, that he wants to be known as the greatest champion ever. Shouldn't that be our goal? To be the greatest champion ever, yeah, that sounds good to me.
Not to mention the shape that these guys have to be in to cut and make weight before a fight, and then turn around and knock each other senseless. There is something beautiful to me about the simplicity and rawness of being in a cage. No, I don't see the UFC as a gladiatoral sport for blood-thirsty fans to go crazy over. I truly believe that the early fans of the bloody free-for-alls would be disappointed by today's matches that are beautiful displays of technique, power, and speed. What I love is the instinctive nature of MMA. Perfect example: when I was watching UFC 100 a couple weeks ago, I was watching Dan Henderson (another favorite, known for his powerful right hand) stalk his opponenet Michael Bisping around the ring like a wolf on the hunt. It was majestic! He was looking for a right hand to throw...knew that Bisping's punches weren't hurting him. And midway through the second round it came...Boom! Like a thunder clap, Henderson's right hand belted Bisping right in the jaw. Out before he hit the mat. To this day, probably the greatest single punch I have ever seen.
This sport gets your blood flowing, pumps you up, makes you want to be dangerous. And that's a good thing! So, give it a try, maybe you will see that this new sport is not so different from the others that you love so much.
MMA is more than just blood and guts all over the place. Was early MMA simply a brutal bloodsport? Sort of. But as the UFC has come under new ownership the sport as a whole has cleaned up considerably, thanks in part to seeking unified regulations. I'm not saying that there aren't huge cuts still being opened up, but if you take the time to watch the fighters, you can tell the intentions of the strikes are much cleaner now. There is a weight range similar to boxing which prevents unfair fights between a giant and a 155lb ninja from happening. No matter what people say the giant pretty much always crushes that small of a person. I think it is important to take in a fight and just see how skilled these fighters are.
I have always believed that sports point to something greater within us. I suppose that could be a brief synopsis of yesterday's post. And so that's where I started my debate with MMA. I thought that if I could feel inspired in some way by MMA, then I would indeed count it as a sport. And to me it points to one of the most basic and pure facets of humanity: Great things are worth fighting for. Maybe this doesn't do it for some people, but even if all these guys are fighting for is a gold belt and fame, it still captures my attention. One of my favorite fighters, the current welterweight champion, Georges St. Pierre, always says that he is currently fighting for his legacy, that he wants to be known as the greatest champion ever. Shouldn't that be our goal? To be the greatest champion ever, yeah, that sounds good to me.
Not to mention the shape that these guys have to be in to cut and make weight before a fight, and then turn around and knock each other senseless. There is something beautiful to me about the simplicity and rawness of being in a cage. No, I don't see the UFC as a gladiatoral sport for blood-thirsty fans to go crazy over. I truly believe that the early fans of the bloody free-for-alls would be disappointed by today's matches that are beautiful displays of technique, power, and speed. What I love is the instinctive nature of MMA. Perfect example: when I was watching UFC 100 a couple weeks ago, I was watching Dan Henderson (another favorite, known for his powerful right hand) stalk his opponenet Michael Bisping around the ring like a wolf on the hunt. It was majestic! He was looking for a right hand to throw...knew that Bisping's punches weren't hurting him. And midway through the second round it came...Boom! Like a thunder clap, Henderson's right hand belted Bisping right in the jaw. Out before he hit the mat. To this day, probably the greatest single punch I have ever seen.
This sport gets your blood flowing, pumps you up, makes you want to be dangerous. And that's a good thing! So, give it a try, maybe you will see that this new sport is not so different from the others that you love so much.
July 27, 2009
Whisked Away
A couple days ago I read Joe Posnanski's blog post about watching Tom Watson's run at the British Open this year (you can find it at joeposnanski.com/JoeBlog)and completely agreed with his statement about sports taking us to another world. So I just wanted to say a few words of my own about it.
I was at a wedding on Friday night when a friend turned to me, and said "Guess where I was last night?" Knowing we both share a love for baseball I guessed Fenway. Nope. Hmm?...The Royals game? Nope. (Side thought...Who would be bragging about that right now). "I was at U.S. Cellular", he said. It hit me like a ton of bricks how cool that was. For those of you who don't know, my friend watched Mark Buerhle pitch a perfect game. Lucky! And apparently he's seen two no-hitters in person. What I wouldn't give to have that kind of luck!
But that's what happens in sports. This British Open was no different than any other year, except that Tom Watson decided to give every sports fan a dream weekend of what golf used to be: a gentleman's game (and he did it to the very end). Mark Buerhle went out on his normal rest, just wanting to win one for the team; just doing his job. Well, he did it alright. And to the delight of all sports fans he achieved perfection.
It got me thinking about what is majestic about sports. I love how everyone has a favorite play. Sports gives us an adventure, and even better an adventure to live. So yeah, watching the Red Sox finally win in 2004 was amazing, and no, I will never forget the joy that Luis Gonzalez's bloop single on Mariano Rivera in 2001 still brings me, but I love my own sports stories even more. I was just talking with a former teacher about how all of my friends and I would play football at Loose Park on Sundays. I'll never forget how pumped I was, and how some new guys came and dubbed me "Superman". Anyone who has spent 30 minutes playing catch with me has heard the story of the Cigar Catch. Yeah, it is that legendary. It deserves a name like that.
Sports gives joy incomparable to many things in this technology driven world. Sometimes it's nice to get away from being in touch with everybody and take a buddy or two and enjoy a little struggle, a little competition. Believe me, it will make life a little more full.
I was at a wedding on Friday night when a friend turned to me, and said "Guess where I was last night?" Knowing we both share a love for baseball I guessed Fenway. Nope. Hmm?...The Royals game? Nope. (Side thought...Who would be bragging about that right now). "I was at U.S. Cellular", he said. It hit me like a ton of bricks how cool that was. For those of you who don't know, my friend watched Mark Buerhle pitch a perfect game. Lucky! And apparently he's seen two no-hitters in person. What I wouldn't give to have that kind of luck!
But that's what happens in sports. This British Open was no different than any other year, except that Tom Watson decided to give every sports fan a dream weekend of what golf used to be: a gentleman's game (and he did it to the very end). Mark Buerhle went out on his normal rest, just wanting to win one for the team; just doing his job. Well, he did it alright. And to the delight of all sports fans he achieved perfection.
It got me thinking about what is majestic about sports. I love how everyone has a favorite play. Sports gives us an adventure, and even better an adventure to live. So yeah, watching the Red Sox finally win in 2004 was amazing, and no, I will never forget the joy that Luis Gonzalez's bloop single on Mariano Rivera in 2001 still brings me, but I love my own sports stories even more. I was just talking with a former teacher about how all of my friends and I would play football at Loose Park on Sundays. I'll never forget how pumped I was, and how some new guys came and dubbed me "Superman". Anyone who has spent 30 minutes playing catch with me has heard the story of the Cigar Catch. Yeah, it is that legendary. It deserves a name like that.
Sports gives joy incomparable to many things in this technology driven world. Sometimes it's nice to get away from being in touch with everybody and take a buddy or two and enjoy a little struggle, a little competition. Believe me, it will make life a little more full.
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