Recently, the US government has been sticking its nose into professional sports way to often, and coming up with nothing. There have been multiple hearing on steroids, which have produced nothing we hadn't already known.
They have wasted time and money and yet have not let up the attack as they continue to adamantly pursue Barry Bonds. It is common knowledge that Bonds did not achieve all of his accomplishments within the rules of either baseball or the law. The argument here isn't that Bonds should get away with breaking the law, but there are so many more important issues around the country for any branch of the government to focus any more time on this subject.
The NFL was investigated for Commissioner Roger Goodell's handling of the Patriot's video tape scandal. Again, throughout all of the hearings and meetings with those who had "inside information", the only thing Congress was able to determine was that everyone was sick and tired of hearing about Spygate. Chalk that whole episode up to another big waste of time and money.
The NBA was also involved in a recent episode where government officials were involved, but in this case the league reached out to a former federal prosecutor to help with an internal investigation. The Tim Donaghy referee scandal is one instance where the government is needed to step in, look around, and possibly clean up any of the skeletons lurking in the closet.
And today, the House of Representatives found another issue in sports that is worth pursuing. They will seek a presidential pardon for Jack Johnson, 46 years after his death.
Johnson's only offense is that he was offensive. He lived a life no different than any current professional athlete, and probably a little more modest than today's stars. Johnson, however, lived in a very different time and because he was a black man who did not lay down and follow the exceptionally misguided ethos of the time, he was labeled as a threat and, eventually, a criminal. He beat up white men and married a white woman, and for that the government conjured up a bogus federal charges which forced Johnson to flee the country, serve a year in federal prison, and ultimately loose his boxing career.
Seeking this posthumous presidential pardon won't do much for Johnson, but this decision is not just for Johnson. Through this pardon, the government is recognizing, admitting to, and attempting to rectify some serious wrongs they have committed against the black community and other minorities ever since the founding of this country. And although it might seem small and inconsequential, merely acknowledging some of the mistakes of the past will lead to positive change in the future. No matter your political affiliation, this is one House resolution we can all get behind.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Thursday, September 25, 2008
The Best of Both Worlds
Tonight, USC will be traveling to play Oregon State in a "big time" PAC-10 conference match- up. Unfortunately, this prime-time contest lacks any sort of luster that the networks are trying to maintain the game will feature; almost everyone knows that this game was over as soon as USC stepped off the plane.The Trojans are head-and-shoulders above their Pac-10 counterparts, they should not only run the conference table but should do so in convincing fashion. The more interesting game would be if USC got the courage to go play a team like BYU, now that would be must-see TV.
This is shaping up to be a really interesting year in college football. Most of the major conferences are down, letting mid-major teams shine through. Come bowl season there will be more than one small conference team making a valid argument for a BCS birth over a team from one of the six major conferences. Of course, though, teams from the larger conferences will get preference over arguably better teams because of conference affiliations. That will undoubtedly lead to a compelling debate for a playoff system throughout the country, but inevitably won't lead to much change, if any. So if there is still going to be this God-awful BCS/bowl system, at least make it fair and more competitive. If they are going to keep the bowl system and ignore any and all reasonable logic for a playoff system, then some serious changes have to be made.
The major conferences - ACC, SEC, Pac-10, Big Ten, Big XII, and Big East - should adopt some of the stronger teams from smaller conferences like the WAC, Mountain West, MAC, and others, in order to create a more balanced and competitive system. This would essentially combine some of the mid-majors with the BCS conferences to make larger, super-conferences. Utah, BYU, Fresno State, ECU, Boise State, Bowling Green, Ball State, and some others, are all teams that can compete with the big boys, and some of them have proven it this season already. At the same time, teams like Syracuse, Baylor, Washington, and Duke have proven through this year and in the past that perhaps they don't belong.
Three of the BCS conferences, the Big East, ACC, and Pac-9 (Pac-10 minus USC), are beyond weak; they are abysmal. The Big 12 has a few strong, big-game teams - Texas, Missouri, Oklahoma - but aside from these teams, the conference is down and bordering on the line of mediocrity. The Big East's traditional big names have been tarnished by big losses. The Big Ten has shown a recent tenancy of not showing up in the big game; Ohio State's big loss to USC two weeks ago cemented that idea. Without USC, the Pac-10 the rest of the conference is weaker than either the WAC or MWC. When the strongest teams from these conferences run into any reasonable competition, they loose. Teams from the Big East, ACC, and PAC-10 have fallen to the likes of East Carolina (twice), Fresno State, Bowling Green, and others. And when teams like UCLA run into BYU, then they get embarrassed.
If the major conferences combined with some of the stronger mid-majors, it would take care of many of the issues that surrounds the conference bowl system. First, it would assure that every conference would have a conference championship game. Many have complained that Big Ten and Pac-10 gets a break because they don't have a championship game, and therefore have one less opportunity for a loss at the hands of a quality opponent. Second, it would ensure that teams that are outside the six "major" conferences get their shot at a BCS game.
It would also maintain the whole "every game means something" argument that many cling to when discussing a playoff format. It would also eliminate some of the computer factor in determining the BCS rankings. The strength of schedule and quality of wins argument would be less important because most of a team's game would be played against their own division, and since there will only be 6-major conferences, when teams play teams from the TCU, Houston, Akron, Troy, etc., they would not be penalized for playing a weaker opponent since these teams will all be in the same conference.
Also, this will force the big boys to step up. USC should be commended for scheduling BCS opponents for their early non-conference schedule, not like Ohio State who battled lowly Youngstown State and Ohio University. Teams would HAVE to step up and play big time schedules. The emphasis for judgment and rankings would be more focus on wins rather than how many points they could rack up against FCS schools.
Admittedly, the idea is a bit exotic, perhaps even crazy. But in principal it would account for some of the BCS's shortcomings and at the same time feature the best aspects of the bowl system. In essence, it is the best of both worlds.
Editors note: So I guess I was wrong about Oregon State, as many people were. The Beavers must be commended for their win more than USC should be condemned for their loss. But while the result of this game did not play out to how this story was originally written, it does contribute to the argument that this is shaping up to be a really interesting year in college football. This season is going to be ripe with upsets, resulting in many 1-loss and 2-loss teams without two stone cold locks for the BCS championship; this will ultimately result in a bit of controversy come bowl time when certain teams are left out of big bowls.
This is shaping up to be a really interesting year in college football. Most of the major conferences are down, letting mid-major teams shine through. Come bowl season there will be more than one small conference team making a valid argument for a BCS birth over a team from one of the six major conferences. Of course, though, teams from the larger conferences will get preference over arguably better teams because of conference affiliations. That will undoubtedly lead to a compelling debate for a playoff system throughout the country, but inevitably won't lead to much change, if any. So if there is still going to be this God-awful BCS/bowl system, at least make it fair and more competitive. If they are going to keep the bowl system and ignore any and all reasonable logic for a playoff system, then some serious changes have to be made.
The major conferences - ACC, SEC, Pac-10, Big Ten, Big XII, and Big East - should adopt some of the stronger teams from smaller conferences like the WAC, Mountain West, MAC, and others, in order to create a more balanced and competitive system. This would essentially combine some of the mid-majors with the BCS conferences to make larger, super-conferences. Utah, BYU, Fresno State, ECU, Boise State, Bowling Green, Ball State, and some others, are all teams that can compete with the big boys, and some of them have proven it this season already. At the same time, teams like Syracuse, Baylor, Washington, and Duke have proven through this year and in the past that perhaps they don't belong.
Three of the BCS conferences, the Big East, ACC, and Pac-9 (Pac-10 minus USC), are beyond weak; they are abysmal. The Big 12 has a few strong, big-game teams - Texas, Missouri, Oklahoma - but aside from these teams, the conference is down and bordering on the line of mediocrity. The Big East's traditional big names have been tarnished by big losses. The Big Ten has shown a recent tenancy of not showing up in the big game; Ohio State's big loss to USC two weeks ago cemented that idea. Without USC, the Pac-10 the rest of the conference is weaker than either the WAC or MWC. When the strongest teams from these conferences run into any reasonable competition, they loose. Teams from the Big East, ACC, and PAC-10 have fallen to the likes of East Carolina (twice), Fresno State, Bowling Green, and others. And when teams like UCLA run into BYU, then they get embarrassed.
If the major conferences combined with some of the stronger mid-majors, it would take care of many of the issues that surrounds the conference bowl system. First, it would assure that every conference would have a conference championship game. Many have complained that Big Ten and Pac-10 gets a break because they don't have a championship game, and therefore have one less opportunity for a loss at the hands of a quality opponent. Second, it would ensure that teams that are outside the six "major" conferences get their shot at a BCS game.
It would also maintain the whole "every game means something" argument that many cling to when discussing a playoff format. It would also eliminate some of the computer factor in determining the BCS rankings. The strength of schedule and quality of wins argument would be less important because most of a team's game would be played against their own division, and since there will only be 6-major conferences, when teams play teams from the TCU, Houston, Akron, Troy, etc., they would not be penalized for playing a weaker opponent since these teams will all be in the same conference.
Also, this will force the big boys to step up. USC should be commended for scheduling BCS opponents for their early non-conference schedule, not like Ohio State who battled lowly Youngstown State and Ohio University. Teams would HAVE to step up and play big time schedules. The emphasis for judgment and rankings would be more focus on wins rather than how many points they could rack up against FCS schools.
Admittedly, the idea is a bit exotic, perhaps even crazy. But in principal it would account for some of the BCS's shortcomings and at the same time feature the best aspects of the bowl system. In essence, it is the best of both worlds.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Ya gotta earn it
Earlier today, the Florida Marlins announced that they are going to play their regulars against the New York Mets in their season-ending series this weekend. While this might be a shock to some, the most shocking aspect of this story is that it is a story at all. The fact that this was even a question to begin with is the product of the media's preference for only the playoff contenders; in their minds, the other teams do not even breach the realm of consciousness.
Granted, there are some instances where a regular starter would need to sit out or shut it down for the rest of the season, but aside from nagging injuries and trying to get some game experience for young prospects, the regulars should be in there in the games that matter. In fact, teams should revel in the fact that they get to play spoiler and for the teams still in it. The public loves a fall from grace almost as much as they enjoyed watching the ascent, and for a team to be a part of another team's demise could be a satisfying end to what had until that point been a disappointing season. Case in point, the Yankees and their devoted following would like nothing more - now that they are out of the playoff race - than to deny the Red Sox an opportunity to win the division, if it is still a possibility at that point. Sending Boston into postseason play with a sound, crushing defeat would salvage a sliver of the team's dignity.
Teams that are in divisional and wild card races should not feel as if they are entitled to victories over the weaker teams. And those teams and their fans that hope or expect for their opponents to not offer amble resistance or competition should be ashamed that they are satisfied with a cheap win that comes against the second-tier players. Limping listlessly into the playoffs is not nearly as satisfying as rightfully earning a spot through hard fought games and hard earned wins. And taking on and defeating tough competition down the stretch is better preparation for what lies ahead in the postseason.
A baseball season is 162 games long, and teams should be able to field a competitive set of players for every one of them, no matter their postseason outlook. And teams that are destined for something more should earn their way into the playoffs by playing the full slate of games necessary to clinch a spot. Relying on the idea that teams will just roll over for them is the antithesis of what the baseball season and the playoff system is supposed to be.
So, now, a message to all of the playoff-hopeful teams and their fans: You can't just expect to be handed a playoff spot.
Ya gotta earn it.
Granted, there are some instances where a regular starter would need to sit out or shut it down for the rest of the season, but aside from nagging injuries and trying to get some game experience for young prospects, the regulars should be in there in the games that matter. In fact, teams should revel in the fact that they get to play spoiler and for the teams still in it. The public loves a fall from grace almost as much as they enjoyed watching the ascent, and for a team to be a part of another team's demise could be a satisfying end to what had until that point been a disappointing season. Case in point, the Yankees and their devoted following would like nothing more - now that they are out of the playoff race - than to deny the Red Sox an opportunity to win the division, if it is still a possibility at that point. Sending Boston into postseason play with a sound, crushing defeat would salvage a sliver of the team's dignity.
Teams that are in divisional and wild card races should not feel as if they are entitled to victories over the weaker teams. And those teams and their fans that hope or expect for their opponents to not offer amble resistance or competition should be ashamed that they are satisfied with a cheap win that comes against the second-tier players. Limping listlessly into the playoffs is not nearly as satisfying as rightfully earning a spot through hard fought games and hard earned wins. And taking on and defeating tough competition down the stretch is better preparation for what lies ahead in the postseason.
A baseball season is 162 games long, and teams should be able to field a competitive set of players for every one of them, no matter their postseason outlook. And teams that are destined for something more should earn their way into the playoffs by playing the full slate of games necessary to clinch a spot. Relying on the idea that teams will just roll over for them is the antithesis of what the baseball season and the playoff system is supposed to be.
So, now, a message to all of the playoff-hopeful teams and their fans: You can't just expect to be handed a playoff spot.
Ya gotta earn it.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Yankee Stadium: Only the visable smybol of the end of an era
Those who watched the final game at Yankee Stadium on Sunday night - despite your personal allegiances - have to admit that it was a combination of emotion and nostalgia. From a purely baseball perspective, seeing all of the Yankee greats of the past sharing the field with the current players was a sight to behold. Even members of the Orioles saw the importance of the evening, and were out on the field collecting dirt right along with everyone else.
But what was missing from all of the festivities and Hall of Fame players was the one person most responsible for restoring the aura and glory to the Yankees and that ball park as any one of those players were: George Steinbrenner.
George was in his home in Tampa, FL accompanied by his son Hank, who enjoyed the game on the television.
The demolition of Yankee Stadium will be a sad day for the baseball world, but sadder still has been the Yankees performance without the original Mr. Steinbrenner. As feisty as Hank is, he can't hold a candle to his father. While many have provided ample commentary and criticism of George over the many years as head of one of the most profitable and recognizable teams in all of the world, no one can dispute his passion for fielding a winning team and his willingness to do whatever he can to make the Yankees a success. It is more than symbolic that the first year that George stepped down and handed the reigns over to his two sons is the same year that the Yankees will miss the playoffs for the first time in over a decade.
Now the Yankee's shortcomings this year stem from more than George stepping down, they are in fact the culmination of his deteriorating health over the years. But the symbolism is still apparent: without George, the Yankees will never be the same. With New Yankee Stadium set to open next year and Hank and Hal in the second year of their tenure, the transformation of what the Yankees have been for the 35 years under George's careful watch into what they will be under this new generation of ownership will begin to round into shape. Yankee Stadium is only the last, visible symbol that times have changed not only in the Bronx, but in baseball.
It is truly the end of an era.
But what was missing from all of the festivities and Hall of Fame players was the one person most responsible for restoring the aura and glory to the Yankees and that ball park as any one of those players were: George Steinbrenner.
George was in his home in Tampa, FL accompanied by his son Hank, who enjoyed the game on the television.
The demolition of Yankee Stadium will be a sad day for the baseball world, but sadder still has been the Yankees performance without the original Mr. Steinbrenner. As feisty as Hank is, he can't hold a candle to his father. While many have provided ample commentary and criticism of George over the many years as head of one of the most profitable and recognizable teams in all of the world, no one can dispute his passion for fielding a winning team and his willingness to do whatever he can to make the Yankees a success. It is more than symbolic that the first year that George stepped down and handed the reigns over to his two sons is the same year that the Yankees will miss the playoffs for the first time in over a decade.
Now the Yankee's shortcomings this year stem from more than George stepping down, they are in fact the culmination of his deteriorating health over the years. But the symbolism is still apparent: without George, the Yankees will never be the same. With New Yankee Stadium set to open next year and Hank and Hal in the second year of their tenure, the transformation of what the Yankees have been for the 35 years under George's careful watch into what they will be under this new generation of ownership will begin to round into shape. Yankee Stadium is only the last, visible symbol that times have changed not only in the Bronx, but in baseball.
It is truly the end of an era.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Kiffin shouldn't have to put up with Raiders
According to multiple sources, Oakland Raiders head coach Lane Kiffin could be fired by the time you finish reading this post. And while this is "business as usual" out in Oakland, especially with AL Davis still running the show, its something that neither Kiffin nor anyone else should have to put up with.
These rumors have been swirling around for almost the entirety of Kiffin's tenure, and its unfortunate because Kiffin has not had a fair chance to turn this team around. The problems the Raiders are experiencing are not a matter of X's and O's. The culture of the team - the defeatist attitude, the nonchalant approach to practice and meetings, and a number of other variables - contribute more to the Raider's woes than anything that Kiffin has or hasn't done.
In fact, save for a Week 1 blowout at the hands of the Broncos (who are 3-0, and looking more and more like a legitimate threat to win the AFC West), the Raiders are more competitive this year then they were last season. Their offensive line, which was very suspect last year and into their first game this season, has seemed to come together a bit in the last two weeks; allowing for them to run the ball very effectively. They have a young team, but are very skilled at the right positions and have the potential, under the right tutelage, to be a very good team in the years to come.
Whether or not Kiffin was the right man for the job when he was initially hired is still up for debate, but the game of head coach Russian roulette that Al Davis seems to play every week only weakens the power and respect that Kiffin has over his team. Kiffin may not be the coach for the long term, but for right now he appears to be doing a decent job of getting the little off-the-field things turned in the right direction. In terms of dealing with the young talent and uniting the team for the purpose of playing hard every Sunday, Kiffin appears to be establishing a right base for the organization to operate upon.
The problem in Oakland is that patience is a virtue that is in short supply; Al Davis doesn't want to wait to see his team be successful again. And the problem with that is it takes more than one year to rebuild a franchise, Kiffin needs more time to implement his system and establish himself around the locker room as the man that the Raiders look up to. And with Davis constantly sticking his nose in the middle of the team's business, rendering Kiffin's authority mute with the constant threats of his firing, Kiffin hardly has a leg to stand on or a voice to lead the team.
All said, Kiffin has done a good job in realizing that a good team, and organization, is built from the ground up and not through innovative offensive schemes or big free agent signings. But no matter what he has done it has not resulted in wins, and for that his job is in jeopardy. Davis is not looking at the whole picture and is about to put a dent into the resume of a very young coach that has the potential to have a long and successful career (see: Mike Shanahan). It's safe to assume that Kiffin wont last until the end of the season, and its sad to say because Kiffin deserves better than what he has been presented with.
These rumors have been swirling around for almost the entirety of Kiffin's tenure, and its unfortunate because Kiffin has not had a fair chance to turn this team around. The problems the Raiders are experiencing are not a matter of X's and O's. The culture of the team - the defeatist attitude, the nonchalant approach to practice and meetings, and a number of other variables - contribute more to the Raider's woes than anything that Kiffin has or hasn't done.
In fact, save for a Week 1 blowout at the hands of the Broncos (who are 3-0, and looking more and more like a legitimate threat to win the AFC West), the Raiders are more competitive this year then they were last season. Their offensive line, which was very suspect last year and into their first game this season, has seemed to come together a bit in the last two weeks; allowing for them to run the ball very effectively. They have a young team, but are very skilled at the right positions and have the potential, under the right tutelage, to be a very good team in the years to come.
Whether or not Kiffin was the right man for the job when he was initially hired is still up for debate, but the game of head coach Russian roulette that Al Davis seems to play every week only weakens the power and respect that Kiffin has over his team. Kiffin may not be the coach for the long term, but for right now he appears to be doing a decent job of getting the little off-the-field things turned in the right direction. In terms of dealing with the young talent and uniting the team for the purpose of playing hard every Sunday, Kiffin appears to be establishing a right base for the organization to operate upon.
The problem in Oakland is that patience is a virtue that is in short supply; Al Davis doesn't want to wait to see his team be successful again. And the problem with that is it takes more than one year to rebuild a franchise, Kiffin needs more time to implement his system and establish himself around the locker room as the man that the Raiders look up to. And with Davis constantly sticking his nose in the middle of the team's business, rendering Kiffin's authority mute with the constant threats of his firing, Kiffin hardly has a leg to stand on or a voice to lead the team.
All said, Kiffin has done a good job in realizing that a good team, and organization, is built from the ground up and not through innovative offensive schemes or big free agent signings. But no matter what he has done it has not resulted in wins, and for that his job is in jeopardy. Davis is not looking at the whole picture and is about to put a dent into the resume of a very young coach that has the potential to have a long and successful career (see: Mike Shanahan). It's safe to assume that Kiffin wont last until the end of the season, and its sad to say because Kiffin deserves better than what he has been presented with.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Jeter's Yankee Stadium finale not how it should have ended
Last night, Derek Jeter broke firmly established himself not only as one of the top Yankees of all time, but perhaps even the best. Jeter's rank in all-time Yankee lore will be a topic of conversation for many years to come; as he has to the tops of rankings in numerous categories in New York history, so too will his records be broken by the next great Yankee. And when that day comes, we will be able to revisit and appreciate his current accomplishments.
One record that has absolutely no chance of being broken is Jeter's hit total and the famed Cathedral of Baseball, Yankee Stadium. When those hallowed walls are torn down, so too will the chance of Jeter being surpassed in at least one category; and in the place of arguably the greatest sports stadium ever in American history - if not world history - the records of that great ballpark will forever be cemented.
There is no doubt that Jeter will one day be enshrined in Cooperstown and his retired jersey will adorn New Yankee Stadium, but in the last few days of the original stadium, Jeter's final accomplishments there will not have received the attention they rightfully deserve.
The final year of baseball in Yankee Stadium has been a complete disaster, leaving many scratching their heads and asking how this could possibly happen to a team with so much talent, potential, and payroll. Because of this Yankee collapse, everything happening at Yankee stadium in the last games ever played there has been completely overshadowed. The baseball viewing public has turned all of their attention to the other fantastic stories around baseball, and rightfully so. There is no reason to keep the Yankees as the lead in newspapers and SportsCenter when the Mets and Phillies are immersed in a playoff battle that seems destined to have an ending eerily similar to the end of the 2007 season, when Manny Ramirez is leading the up-start Dodgers to a playoff birth and quite possibly a World Series birth as well, and when the Cubs appear to be on their way to ending a 100 year championship drought.
Sadly, amongst all this fantastic baseball action, Jeter's accomplishment is but a blip on the baseball radar screen. If the Yankees were about to enter their 14th consecutive postseason, then Jeter's hits the other night would have meant more than what they did and would be in their rightful spot in the minds of everyone: the forefront. Although the Yankees are considered "The Evil Empire", no on can deny their long, illustrious history and what they have meant to baseball. This latest addition to the history books, however, will be lost in the shuffle.
Even though some predict that the Yankees will be back to their true form next season, both in on-field performance and off season spending, it will never make up for how the team said goodbye to The House That Ruth Built. Even if the Yankees never miss the playoffs again, the demolition of Yankee Stadium will forever be associated with a season of mediocrity and underachievement. The final days of Yankee Stadium deserved so much more.
Quite simply, it shouldn't have ended this way.
One record that has absolutely no chance of being broken is Jeter's hit total and the famed Cathedral of Baseball, Yankee Stadium. When those hallowed walls are torn down, so too will the chance of Jeter being surpassed in at least one category; and in the place of arguably the greatest sports stadium ever in American history - if not world history - the records of that great ballpark will forever be cemented.
There is no doubt that Jeter will one day be enshrined in Cooperstown and his retired jersey will adorn New Yankee Stadium, but in the last few days of the original stadium, Jeter's final accomplishments there will not have received the attention they rightfully deserve.
The final year of baseball in Yankee Stadium has been a complete disaster, leaving many scratching their heads and asking how this could possibly happen to a team with so much talent, potential, and payroll. Because of this Yankee collapse, everything happening at Yankee stadium in the last games ever played there has been completely overshadowed. The baseball viewing public has turned all of their attention to the other fantastic stories around baseball, and rightfully so. There is no reason to keep the Yankees as the lead in newspapers and SportsCenter when the Mets and Phillies are immersed in a playoff battle that seems destined to have an ending eerily similar to the end of the 2007 season, when Manny Ramirez is leading the up-start Dodgers to a playoff birth and quite possibly a World Series birth as well, and when the Cubs appear to be on their way to ending a 100 year championship drought.
Sadly, amongst all this fantastic baseball action, Jeter's accomplishment is but a blip on the baseball radar screen. If the Yankees were about to enter their 14th consecutive postseason, then Jeter's hits the other night would have meant more than what they did and would be in their rightful spot in the minds of everyone: the forefront. Although the Yankees are considered "The Evil Empire", no on can deny their long, illustrious history and what they have meant to baseball. This latest addition to the history books, however, will be lost in the shuffle.
Even though some predict that the Yankees will be back to their true form next season, both in on-field performance and off season spending, it will never make up for how the team said goodbye to The House That Ruth Built. Even if the Yankees never miss the playoffs again, the demolition of Yankee Stadium will forever be associated with a season of mediocrity and underachievement. The final days of Yankee Stadium deserved so much more.
Quite simply, it shouldn't have ended this way.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Tom Brady: The Consummate Professional
While Matt Cassel was doing his best to help Patriots fans forget about the loss of their beloved Tom Brady this past Sunday, fans might be surprised to learn that Cassel's performance was directly affected by Mr. Brady himself.
In the midst of the initial stages of his rehab/surgery (the Patriots aren't really talking, but then again that's to be expected from them), Tom Brady found time to sit in with Cassel and the other Patriots quarterbacks in their position meeting on Saturday. Cassel also acknowledged that he spoke with Brady and the two of them "had many different conversations on many different aspects of the game". It may appear that these actions were small and insignificant, but to Matt Cassel it would be safe to assume that Tom Brady's words did way more than most would ever know.
Brady could have simply gone off and disappeared into oblivion while he healed his knee only to resurface when he was healthy enough appear in commercials, nightclubs, or anywhere else with his girlfriend, which is bound to attract all sorts of attention. But Brady showing up in support for not only his team but his backup speaks very highly of his character, especially his presence the first week after his injury. Most others would take some time to relax, have surgery, and go through some rehab before they rejoined their teams, and that's if they even showed their face around the facility at all.
There are a lot of high profile athletes that would not give their backups the time of day after they were injured, especially knowing the turnover rates in professional sports. Time and time again, the cruel realities and business practices of pro sports have taken local athlete-icons and because of any number of reasons - injury, age, diminished performance, money - and have replaced them with younger players with more upside and a cheaper price tag. It's safe to assume that Matt Cassel will not replace Tom Brady long term (then again, that's what they said about Brady when he replaced Drew Bledsoe), but no one would fault Brady if he chose not to aid Cassel in his attempt to replace him for this season. Brady, however, traveled the higher road and did what he could to help his team win even in his absence.
Tom Brady is widely praised for his on-field prowess as well as his off the field escapades, but his off-field professionalism definitely out shine what he has done previously. Although there might be many other examples of Brady doing the right thing, few have been able to show his dedication to the team in the face of his own personal tragedy. Its the sort of thing that separates Brady from the rest of the pack and what has surely played a part in elevating him to the level he currently occupies. It is what he is the consummate professional.
In the midst of the initial stages of his rehab/surgery (the Patriots aren't really talking, but then again that's to be expected from them), Tom Brady found time to sit in with Cassel and the other Patriots quarterbacks in their position meeting on Saturday. Cassel also acknowledged that he spoke with Brady and the two of them "had many different conversations on many different aspects of the game". It may appear that these actions were small and insignificant, but to Matt Cassel it would be safe to assume that Tom Brady's words did way more than most would ever know.
Brady could have simply gone off and disappeared into oblivion while he healed his knee only to resurface when he was healthy enough appear in commercials, nightclubs, or anywhere else with his girlfriend, which is bound to attract all sorts of attention. But Brady showing up in support for not only his team but his backup speaks very highly of his character, especially his presence the first week after his injury. Most others would take some time to relax, have surgery, and go through some rehab before they rejoined their teams, and that's if they even showed their face around the facility at all.
There are a lot of high profile athletes that would not give their backups the time of day after they were injured, especially knowing the turnover rates in professional sports. Time and time again, the cruel realities and business practices of pro sports have taken local athlete-icons and because of any number of reasons - injury, age, diminished performance, money - and have replaced them with younger players with more upside and a cheaper price tag. It's safe to assume that Matt Cassel will not replace Tom Brady long term (then again, that's what they said about Brady when he replaced Drew Bledsoe), but no one would fault Brady if he chose not to aid Cassel in his attempt to replace him for this season. Brady, however, traveled the higher road and did what he could to help his team win even in his absence.
Tom Brady is widely praised for his on-field prowess as well as his off the field escapades, but his off-field professionalism definitely out shine what he has done previously. Although there might be many other examples of Brady doing the right thing, few have been able to show his dedication to the team in the face of his own personal tragedy. Its the sort of thing that separates Brady from the rest of the pack and what has surely played a part in elevating him to the level he currently occupies. It is what he is the consummate professional.
Friday, September 12, 2008
La Celebración
Starting Monday night, when the Dallas Cowboys host the Philadelphia Eagles, the NFL will begin its annual celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, which also coincides with National Hispanic Heritage Month. While it is not an officially sanctioned NFL event for the celebration, Chad Johnson decided to pay his own tribute to those fans on Hispanic ancestry by giving himself the nickname "Ocho Cinco." He has since taken it a step further and has had his name legally changed to Chad Ocho Cinco; and while it cannot be confirmed if he did this because he loves the Hispanic community or if he just loves himself, on some small level there are some that enjoy and perhaps even appreciate his actions.
As for what the NFL has done to honor the players, past and present, who represent Spanish-speaking nations across the world, the league will have performances in stadiums throughout the month by Spanish artists and will feature Hispanic players currently in the NFL on the league's Spanish website.
But as the NFL will feature current stars like Tony Romo, Tony Gonzalez, Anthony Gonzalez, Roberto Garza, and others, it is important to pay homage to those that came before and paved the way for these players:
Now there are those that are deeply upset by the NFL's decision to promote Hispanic Heritage Month by playing commercials entirely in Spanish, seen here. This is just one of many that share this sentiment; a simple Google search will produce many more comments like this and, sadly, even worse. Cries of "learn English" can be heard all over the country, but the ignorance and bigotry of some can not stop the momentum of the Hispanic culture and language in the United States. In a country with an ever growing Hispanic population, it is very important to recognize these people and appreciate the accomplishments they have made. Although professional football may seem like a small arena for making strides for increased diversity and equality, but with the immense popularity of professional sports accomplishments in these areas can be the undertaking for further change in other areas (see: Jackie Robinson).
So as you enjoy watching the Cowboys and Eagles play another game in their long NFC East rivalry, take some time to appreciate the large Hispanic population that is contributing positively to the US in professional sports and a variety of other important areas in society.
The NFL certainly will be.
As for what the NFL has done to honor the players, past and present, who represent Spanish-speaking nations across the world, the league will have performances in stadiums throughout the month by Spanish artists and will feature Hispanic players currently in the NFL on the league's Spanish website.
But as the NFL will feature current stars like Tony Romo, Tony Gonzalez, Anthony Gonzalez, Roberto Garza, and others, it is important to pay homage to those that came before and paved the way for these players:
- Tom Flores was the first Hispanic player to be a starting quarterback in the NFL. During his career as a player and coach, he was fortunate enough to be a part of four Super Bowl winning teams.
- Jim Plunkett made history in 1971 by becoming the first ever Hispanic player to be the #1 pick in the NFL Draft. And even though he did not live up to all the hype that he received coming out of college, he did lead the Raiders to Super Bowl XV victory.
- Tom Fears was the first Hispanic player to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and was also the first Hispanic head coach in the NFL.
Now there are those that are deeply upset by the NFL's decision to promote Hispanic Heritage Month by playing commercials entirely in Spanish, seen here. This is just one of many that share this sentiment; a simple Google search will produce many more comments like this and, sadly, even worse. Cries of "learn English" can be heard all over the country, but the ignorance and bigotry of some can not stop the momentum of the Hispanic culture and language in the United States. In a country with an ever growing Hispanic population, it is very important to recognize these people and appreciate the accomplishments they have made. Although professional football may seem like a small arena for making strides for increased diversity and equality, but with the immense popularity of professional sports accomplishments in these areas can be the undertaking for further change in other areas (see: Jackie Robinson).
So as you enjoy watching the Cowboys and Eagles play another game in their long NFC East rivalry, take some time to appreciate the large Hispanic population that is contributing positively to the US in professional sports and a variety of other important areas in society.
The NFL certainly will be.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
The Real Meaning of 'Value'
There is a lot that goes into the MVP discussion for every sport. And as the Major League Baseball regular season winds down, debates will rage on not only who should be the MVP should be but what an MVP is.
There are a number of different ways to define what the criteria for an MVP should be.
Some argue that an MVP is the best player on the best team. If that were the case, then players like Evan Longoria of the Rays and Torii Hunter of the Angels would be the top two contenders in the AL while Carlos Zambrano of the Cubs would be in the lead for the NL. These are the teams with the best records in each of the leagues, with the Rays and Angels battling for the top spot in the AL, separated by only half a game in the standings. Neither one of these teams has a clear-cut MVP candidate or even an out-right best player; the Rays, Angels, and Cubs have gotten the job done with a number of different players stepping up in different times throughout the year. This is perhaps why they are the best teams in the league, no one star, just a team of great players playing together to achieve a goal. But if this were the criteria for the MVP, then these players would have to receive more consideration than they are getting.
Another popular form of reasoning in determining the MVP is through straight-up statistics. The Cardinals' Albert Pujols has built up an impressive resume and is getting serious MVP consideration from all over the league. Pujols is in the top ten in all of the major offensive categories and is batting a ridiculous .362, a very high average for a top slugger. These numbers would almost certainly carry him all the way to the National League MVP trophy even if his team does not make the playoffs. There is a similar situation going on in the American League. Josh Hamilton of the Rangers should be the MVP if the decision was based solely on statistics. He ranks 14th in batting average, is tied for 5th in home runs, is 1st in RBIs, and ranks in the top ten in many other important offensive categories. Again, if statistics were the only criteria for MVP, the Pujols and Hamilton would most likely receive the honors.
In some instances, a year-long case for MVPs is clouded by the last few months of a very exciting season. Players who come through down the stretch for their teams and manage to get them into the playoffs all-of-a-sudden jump ahead of players who have played consistently good throughout the season. This year is no exception, Carlos Delgado of the Mets and CC Sabathia of the Brewers are being heralded for their amazing performances of late and are indeed great candidates, but Manny Ramirez is the runaway winner in the NL. Since arriving in Los Angeles, he has done it all for the Dodgers, he's compiled some ridiculous stats and has almost single-handedly turned their season around. Even though he has played in only 38 games with his new team, he is creating a lot of buzz and is getting serious consideration for the MVP award. In the American League, Jermaine Dye of the White Sox would win by default. Chicago is barely hanging in the AL central hunt, but has done enough to hold off the Twins. Carlos Quentin would have taken this award, but his recent season-ending wrist injury has almost ended any consideration of him for this award. The White Sox best player down the stretch has been Dye, he is the most consistent and has has the best numbers of anyone on the team. Some may ask why not a member of the Red Sox for this line of reasoning? There surely have been a number of players that have been hot down the stretch for their team. While this is true, Boston has not been battling for a playoff spot, merely for positioning. Year in and year out they are in the upper echelon of AL teams and this year is no exception, although they risk not winning the East, they are very comfortable making the playoffs as a Wild Card team (see: 2004).
But for the most concrete and verbatim definition of MOST VALUABLE, then the honors must go to Dustin Pedroia of the Red Sox and Ryan Braun of the Brewers. Pedroia has been everything for Boston this year; down the stretch has been awesome, hitting out of his mind and leading the charge for the Red Sox to close the gap on the Rays. He has been the best player on a playoff team for the entire season and is as consistent as they come. He also fantastic stats, holding the top spots in the AL in batting average (.328), hits (196), and runs scored (112).
For Braun, he has been the best position player on the Brewers all year and seems to have a knack for coming though late in games. His consistent play all year has kept Milwaukee in the playoff run all season and has given many a Cubs fan a heart attack ans Chicago can't seem to break away from the Brewers. As far as his offensive numbers go, he has been very solid; he is 4th in NL in home runs (34), 16th in batting average (.297), and 11th in RBIs (96).
Both Pedroia and Braun have good enough numbers, play for winning clubs, are the best position players on their teams, and, most importantly, are tremendous steals for their clubs. Of all the MVP candidates in both leagues, Pedroia and Braun are putting out the same kind of numbers for a fraction of the cost. Pedroia is making only $457,000 this season and Braun is only bringing in $455,000. And while they certainly aren't hurting for money, they are making 10 to 15 times less than other MVP candidates. Manny Ramirez alone will make $20 million this year; for that price you can have a full 25 man roster of Pedroia's and Braun's and still have some money left over to spend on decent pitching.
So now while the regular season winds down and the postseason begins, the MVP debates will begin to heat up all across the nation. And while many will make their case for the most deserving candidates, its important to really look into the meaning of "value." Although many don't make it a case to include salary in the debate, it is the one factor that can truly determine the most "valuable" players.
And in baseball, there are none more "valuable" than Pedroia or Braun.
There are a number of different ways to define what the criteria for an MVP should be.
Some argue that an MVP is the best player on the best team. If that were the case, then players like Evan Longoria of the Rays and Torii Hunter of the Angels would be the top two contenders in the AL while Carlos Zambrano of the Cubs would be in the lead for the NL. These are the teams with the best records in each of the leagues, with the Rays and Angels battling for the top spot in the AL, separated by only half a game in the standings. Neither one of these teams has a clear-cut MVP candidate or even an out-right best player; the Rays, Angels, and Cubs have gotten the job done with a number of different players stepping up in different times throughout the year. This is perhaps why they are the best teams in the league, no one star, just a team of great players playing together to achieve a goal. But if this were the criteria for the MVP, then these players would have to receive more consideration than they are getting.
Another popular form of reasoning in determining the MVP is through straight-up statistics. The Cardinals' Albert Pujols has built up an impressive resume and is getting serious MVP consideration from all over the league. Pujols is in the top ten in all of the major offensive categories and is batting a ridiculous .362, a very high average for a top slugger. These numbers would almost certainly carry him all the way to the National League MVP trophy even if his team does not make the playoffs. There is a similar situation going on in the American League. Josh Hamilton of the Rangers should be the MVP if the decision was based solely on statistics. He ranks 14th in batting average, is tied for 5th in home runs, is 1st in RBIs, and ranks in the top ten in many other important offensive categories. Again, if statistics were the only criteria for MVP, the Pujols and Hamilton would most likely receive the honors.
In some instances, a year-long case for MVPs is clouded by the last few months of a very exciting season. Players who come through down the stretch for their teams and manage to get them into the playoffs all-of-a-sudden jump ahead of players who have played consistently good throughout the season. This year is no exception, Carlos Delgado of the Mets and CC Sabathia of the Brewers are being heralded for their amazing performances of late and are indeed great candidates, but Manny Ramirez is the runaway winner in the NL. Since arriving in Los Angeles, he has done it all for the Dodgers, he's compiled some ridiculous stats and has almost single-handedly turned their season around. Even though he has played in only 38 games with his new team, he is creating a lot of buzz and is getting serious consideration for the MVP award. In the American League, Jermaine Dye of the White Sox would win by default. Chicago is barely hanging in the AL central hunt, but has done enough to hold off the Twins. Carlos Quentin would have taken this award, but his recent season-ending wrist injury has almost ended any consideration of him for this award. The White Sox best player down the stretch has been Dye, he is the most consistent and has has the best numbers of anyone on the team. Some may ask why not a member of the Red Sox for this line of reasoning? There surely have been a number of players that have been hot down the stretch for their team. While this is true, Boston has not been battling for a playoff spot, merely for positioning. Year in and year out they are in the upper echelon of AL teams and this year is no exception, although they risk not winning the East, they are very comfortable making the playoffs as a Wild Card team (see: 2004).
But for the most concrete and verbatim definition of MOST VALUABLE, then the honors must go to Dustin Pedroia of the Red Sox and Ryan Braun of the Brewers. Pedroia has been everything for Boston this year; down the stretch has been awesome, hitting out of his mind and leading the charge for the Red Sox to close the gap on the Rays. He has been the best player on a playoff team for the entire season and is as consistent as they come. He also fantastic stats, holding the top spots in the AL in batting average (.328), hits (196), and runs scored (112).
For Braun, he has been the best position player on the Brewers all year and seems to have a knack for coming though late in games. His consistent play all year has kept Milwaukee in the playoff run all season and has given many a Cubs fan a heart attack ans Chicago can't seem to break away from the Brewers. As far as his offensive numbers go, he has been very solid; he is 4th in NL in home runs (34), 16th in batting average (.297), and 11th in RBIs (96).
Both Pedroia and Braun have good enough numbers, play for winning clubs, are the best position players on their teams, and, most importantly, are tremendous steals for their clubs. Of all the MVP candidates in both leagues, Pedroia and Braun are putting out the same kind of numbers for a fraction of the cost. Pedroia is making only $457,000 this season and Braun is only bringing in $455,000. And while they certainly aren't hurting for money, they are making 10 to 15 times less than other MVP candidates. Manny Ramirez alone will make $20 million this year; for that price you can have a full 25 man roster of Pedroia's and Braun's and still have some money left over to spend on decent pitching.
So now while the regular season winds down and the postseason begins, the MVP debates will begin to heat up all across the nation. And while many will make their case for the most deserving candidates, its important to really look into the meaning of "value." Although many don't make it a case to include salary in the debate, it is the one factor that can truly determine the most "valuable" players.
And in baseball, there are none more "valuable" than Pedroia or Braun.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Even if it is broke, don' fix it!
It appears that they new trend in professional sports is to take all of the advancements of medical science along with the respected opinions of highly regarded doctors and medical professionals and just throw them right out the window. Torn ligaments? Who cares! Just wing it!
Kobe Bryant is the latest professional athlete to seek the advice of doctors, orthopedists, and surgeons, and then decide that they have no idea what they are talking about and go ahead and do whatever he wants to. It was announced today that Bryant will not have surgery to repair a torn ligament in his right pinkie finger. Bryant first injured himself in early February and played more than half of the games last season, including the playoffs, as well as in the Olympics with the torn ligament. In his defense, however, he preformed very well, having no significant difference in his game stats prior to and after the injury.
While it may not appear to be very significant, this could have major ramifications for Kobe and the Lakers if something goes awry. Yes, he did play with the injury for an extended period of time with no perceived ill affects, but the longer he goes without taking care of his finger - on his shooting hand mind you - the more of a chance there is for the situation to get worse.
For one thing, he will be more susceptible to injury to that finger and hand; it wont take nearly as much pressure or force to cause more damage or inflict pain due to the pre-existing damage. For arguments sake, lets say that Kobe does suffer an additional injury to his right hand. The repair and healing process will become longer because instead of simply treating the primary problem, the injured pinkie will have to be accounted for as well.
Secondly, the longer he goes without having his finger properly repaired the more likely it is the finger will become inoperable, growing to form an irregularity that could cause problems down the line. Years from now, Kobe could have reoccurring problems with that finger that alter his shot and/or his overall game. It would be very sad to see a player that dynamic be crippled because of a pinkie.
On the very same day that Kobe decided to forgo surgery, Shawne Merriman, San Diego Chargers linebacker, changed his mind about skipping out on season-ending knee surgery.
Merriman's initial decision to play the 2008 season with two torn ligaments in his knee was widely questioned and criticized. After playing just one game on that injured knee, Merriman saw that he would not be able to play to the same level that he and the rest of the league expected of him. In hindsight, perhaps he should have had the operation months ago, but better now then when it was too late.
And while many will argue that the severity of these two stars' injuries are incomparable and probably shouldn't be mentioned in the same conversation, the fact is that these two situations are indeed similar.
Merriman avoided further damage that could have ended a bright career almost as soon as it started by making a smart choice. Kobe does have more years under his belt than Merriman, he also has multiple championships and an Olympic gold medal to go along with an already impressive and lengthy career, but he also has so much more in front of him. Kobe is in the prime of his career, and within the next few years he will have the opportunity to distinguish himself as one of, if not the best to have ever played the game. But, alas, we will have to wait with our fingers crossed (pun not intended) if Kobe's pinkie will eventually be the cause of his demise.
Conventional wisdom would argue to take care of a nagging problem. But because of his success in spite of the injury, perhaps the conventional wisdom is changing. Instead of "If it aint broke, don't fix it", perhaps the new vernacular will become: "Broke or not, get that scalpel away from me!"
Kobe Bryant is the latest professional athlete to seek the advice of doctors, orthopedists, and surgeons, and then decide that they have no idea what they are talking about and go ahead and do whatever he wants to. It was announced today that Bryant will not have surgery to repair a torn ligament in his right pinkie finger. Bryant first injured himself in early February and played more than half of the games last season, including the playoffs, as well as in the Olympics with the torn ligament. In his defense, however, he preformed very well, having no significant difference in his game stats prior to and after the injury.
While it may not appear to be very significant, this could have major ramifications for Kobe and the Lakers if something goes awry. Yes, he did play with the injury for an extended period of time with no perceived ill affects, but the longer he goes without taking care of his finger - on his shooting hand mind you - the more of a chance there is for the situation to get worse.
For one thing, he will be more susceptible to injury to that finger and hand; it wont take nearly as much pressure or force to cause more damage or inflict pain due to the pre-existing damage. For arguments sake, lets say that Kobe does suffer an additional injury to his right hand. The repair and healing process will become longer because instead of simply treating the primary problem, the injured pinkie will have to be accounted for as well.
Secondly, the longer he goes without having his finger properly repaired the more likely it is the finger will become inoperable, growing to form an irregularity that could cause problems down the line. Years from now, Kobe could have reoccurring problems with that finger that alter his shot and/or his overall game. It would be very sad to see a player that dynamic be crippled because of a pinkie.
On the very same day that Kobe decided to forgo surgery, Shawne Merriman, San Diego Chargers linebacker, changed his mind about skipping out on season-ending knee surgery.
Merriman's initial decision to play the 2008 season with two torn ligaments in his knee was widely questioned and criticized. After playing just one game on that injured knee, Merriman saw that he would not be able to play to the same level that he and the rest of the league expected of him. In hindsight, perhaps he should have had the operation months ago, but better now then when it was too late.
And while many will argue that the severity of these two stars' injuries are incomparable and probably shouldn't be mentioned in the same conversation, the fact is that these two situations are indeed similar.
Merriman avoided further damage that could have ended a bright career almost as soon as it started by making a smart choice. Kobe does have more years under his belt than Merriman, he also has multiple championships and an Olympic gold medal to go along with an already impressive and lengthy career, but he also has so much more in front of him. Kobe is in the prime of his career, and within the next few years he will have the opportunity to distinguish himself as one of, if not the best to have ever played the game. But, alas, we will have to wait with our fingers crossed (pun not intended) if Kobe's pinkie will eventually be the cause of his demise.
Conventional wisdom would argue to take care of a nagging problem. But because of his success in spite of the injury, perhaps the conventional wisdom is changing. Instead of "If it aint broke, don't fix it", perhaps the new vernacular will become: "Broke or not, get that scalpel away from me!"
Monday, September 8, 2008
Tim Tebow: Looking Better Everyday
As the college football season approaches its third week, the sporting fan base waits with great anticipation for one of the most highly anticipated match-ups in a long time. But aside from this year’s proverbial "game-of-the-century" between Ohio State and USC, most fans want to know if their favorite college or university will be able to field a competitive team. Although no season is complete without student-athletes at high-profile university athletics programs getting into trouble, this year the numbers seem to be much higher.
On Friday, Ball State football coach Brady Hoke suspended his nephew for a game against Navy after he was arrested the previous week for drunken driving.
That same day Virginia quarterback Peter Lalich violated his parole, his playing status is still up in the air.
Penn State coach Joe Paterno also had a busy day; he suspended three players – two starting defensive linemen – from their Saturday contest against Oregon State, another player was dismissed from the team.
The Miami Hurricanes – perennial contenders for the for Most Suspended Team crown – held out seven players from their season opener due to various violations of team rules and/or the Florida penal code.
Florida State, another class-act program, had more than a dozen players suspended for their opening game.
And on, and on, and on. The sheer number of athletes suspended this year already is alarming enough, but there will be many more to come; to expect that there will be no more trouble for the rest of the football season and through the basketball season is more than a bit naive. You know the NCAA is praying for someone to emerge as a poster boy of good behavior, someone with high-profile talent to go along with high-profile acts of unselfish volunteerism.
Enter Tim Tebow.
When he’s not out scoring touchdowns, winning the Heisman Trophy in his sophomore season, laughing at Superman for having a weakness, sweating Gatorade, or inventing the color spectrum (the last three "facts" provided here), Tim Tebow is spending his time doing missionary work in the Philippines.
It is quite refreshing to see someone so talented to be so grounded. Instead of looking for ways his fame and status to benefit him, he looks for ways his popularity can benefit others. No matter the number or grandeur of his accomplishments, Tebow understands that there are those who are less fortunate than he is. He does not take the talents he has for granted, he works hard for them and looks outward to use his gifts to help others.
Tim Tebow is an example not just for other student-athletes, but for all people. Despite your particular allegiances, you can’t overlook Tim Tebow and his greatness on and off the field. And as the days and weeks of the college football season go by and the arrests and suspensions pile up, the appreciation for Tebow and all he does will only grow.
On Friday, Ball State football coach Brady Hoke suspended his nephew for a game against Navy after he was arrested the previous week for drunken driving.
That same day Virginia quarterback Peter Lalich violated his parole, his playing status is still up in the air.
Penn State coach Joe Paterno also had a busy day; he suspended three players – two starting defensive linemen – from their Saturday contest against Oregon State, another player was dismissed from the team.
The Miami Hurricanes – perennial contenders for the for Most Suspended Team crown – held out seven players from their season opener due to various violations of team rules and/or the Florida penal code.
Florida State, another class-act program, had more than a dozen players suspended for their opening game.
And on, and on, and on. The sheer number of athletes suspended this year already is alarming enough, but there will be many more to come; to expect that there will be no more trouble for the rest of the football season and through the basketball season is more than a bit naive. You know the NCAA is praying for someone to emerge as a poster boy of good behavior, someone with high-profile talent to go along with high-profile acts of unselfish volunteerism.
Enter Tim Tebow.
When he’s not out scoring touchdowns, winning the Heisman Trophy in his sophomore season, laughing at Superman for having a weakness, sweating Gatorade, or inventing the color spectrum (the last three "facts" provided here), Tim Tebow is spending his time doing missionary work in the Philippines.
It is quite refreshing to see someone so talented to be so grounded. Instead of looking for ways his fame and status to benefit him, he looks for ways his popularity can benefit others. No matter the number or grandeur of his accomplishments, Tebow understands that there are those who are less fortunate than he is. He does not take the talents he has for granted, he works hard for them and looks outward to use his gifts to help others.
Tim Tebow is an example not just for other student-athletes, but for all people. Despite your particular allegiances, you can’t overlook Tim Tebow and his greatness on and off the field. And as the days and weeks of the college football season go by and the arrests and suspensions pile up, the appreciation for Tebow and all he does will only grow.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Rough skies ahead
The new Oklahoma City franchise officially revealed their new name today, and will from here on out be known as the Thunder. Many people have voiced their opinions on what the name should be, even giving their opinions of what the uniforms should look like. From all accounts it seems that Thunder is not wildly popular around the league, but the bigger problem with OKC "revealing" the new name today is that it wasn't really much of a surprise.
The NBA experienced numerous mishaps in trying to heighten the suspense for their kinda-new team. The name was leaked on multiple occasions when other teams listed Thunder on their upcoming schedules instead of OKC. Apparently they also used the word "Thunder" in the team's URL but quickly tried to remedy the situation. The logo was not safe either; yesterday it was confirmed that the name would be thanks to it being emblazoned on some fancy new merchandise that someone got a sneak peak of.
The name of the team is irrelevant at this point; the most pressing matter is that this team has been doomed from the beginning. Dating back to last season when they were still in Seattle and referred to as the Sonics, all of the rumors about relocation were soon leaked and the story of the whole season was whether or not the team would leave. Even after they moved half-way across the country and tried to revamp their whole image the same problems seem to follow: management has secrets and they don't know how to keep them under wraps.
The name and logo information might not seem like a big deal, but the fact that nothing can remain a secret within the organization is a bit concerning about the future of this franchise under this ownership. It's not being suggested that NBA teams should be keeping secrets from the league and their fans, but when it comes to confidentiality and trust within the organization, being able to keep information in-house until the proper time is especially important.
The ability to assess and properly address a situation - any situation, both positive and negative - is crucial to the functionality of any company. In doing so, a company can present a well-thought out solution and present themselves as poised and in control of the situation. Failure to do so has the potential of causing panic amongst the fan base and by being reactive instead of proactive it makes the organization seem like they don't know whats going on within their own building. Also, the inability to execute a seemingly simple task of keeping the name and logo secret until a designated reveal date doesn't bode well for a company that will undoubtedly be running into much tougher situations in the not-so-distant future.
As of right now, signs point to trouble for the Thunder. Hopefully, however, management will be able to address what needs to be corrected for the future and OKC will be able to weather the real storm lurking in the distance.
The NBA experienced numerous mishaps in trying to heighten the suspense for their kinda-new team. The name was leaked on multiple occasions when other teams listed Thunder on their upcoming schedules instead of OKC. Apparently they also used the word "Thunder" in the team's URL but quickly tried to remedy the situation. The logo was not safe either; yesterday it was confirmed that the name would be thanks to it being emblazoned on some fancy new merchandise that someone got a sneak peak of.
The name of the team is irrelevant at this point; the most pressing matter is that this team has been doomed from the beginning. Dating back to last season when they were still in Seattle and referred to as the Sonics, all of the rumors about relocation were soon leaked and the story of the whole season was whether or not the team would leave. Even after they moved half-way across the country and tried to revamp their whole image the same problems seem to follow: management has secrets and they don't know how to keep them under wraps.
The name and logo information might not seem like a big deal, but the fact that nothing can remain a secret within the organization is a bit concerning about the future of this franchise under this ownership. It's not being suggested that NBA teams should be keeping secrets from the league and their fans, but when it comes to confidentiality and trust within the organization, being able to keep information in-house until the proper time is especially important.
The ability to assess and properly address a situation - any situation, both positive and negative - is crucial to the functionality of any company. In doing so, a company can present a well-thought out solution and present themselves as poised and in control of the situation. Failure to do so has the potential of causing panic amongst the fan base and by being reactive instead of proactive it makes the organization seem like they don't know whats going on within their own building. Also, the inability to execute a seemingly simple task of keeping the name and logo secret until a designated reveal date doesn't bode well for a company that will undoubtedly be running into much tougher situations in the not-so-distant future.
As of right now, signs point to trouble for the Thunder. Hopefully, however, management will be able to address what needs to be corrected for the future and OKC will be able to weather the real storm lurking in the distance.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
The ESPN Intervention
This Major League Baseball season has been one of many pleasant surprises and will be remembered for years to come.
The Cubs are poised to end their 100-year championship drought, at the very least their 63-year World Series appearance drought. The Rays are on the verge of accomplishing what everyone deemed impossible: going from the worst record to the best record on the strength of pitching, defense, and a whole lot of youth. There is a phenomenal race for the NL Cy Young and neither league has an absolute, bonafide number one contender for the MVP. There are fantastic divisional races in the NL East, West, and Wild Card as well as the AL Central and Wild Card (the other divisions have their winners seemingly locked up). All of this makes for must-see TV as the season wraps up its last month and heads towards what can be expected to be one of the better October's the game has had in a while. With all of this splendor going on, one powerful entity keeps dragging another one along and continuously places them in conversations they have no business being in.
It seems that ESPN just can't let go of the Yankees.
The Yankees have been nothing short of a major disappointment this year. Yes they have had their share of injuries, but for all intents and purposes the team has not lived up to their expectations because they have grossly underachieved. Phil Hughes and Ian Kennedy, two pitchers billed to be fixtures in the Yankee pitching rotation for this season and for years to come have combined to win a grand total of 0 games. Robinson Cano got off to an abysmal start of the season and no matter how many times he looked poised to break out never really got to that point. Melky Cabrera played way below his usual level and was eventually sent back to the minors mid-season, mainly due to his poor hitting. The reigning AL MVP, Alex Rodriguez, has looked no where near the part and after earning some respect and admiration from the Bronx faithful has begun to hear an all-too-familiar chorus of booo's in the recent weeks. Even the beloved Derek Jeter, the Yankee captain, is currently hitting only .296, well below his career average of .316. Aside from a few bright spots in Mike Mussina and Joba Chamberlain, there has been little to root for in the Bronx in 2008.
Despite all of this, ESPN has held on for dear life for any shot that the Yankees would be relevant again. Each and every series they dub as a "must-win" and bring up their chances as a topic for debate in SportsCenter, Baseball Tonight, Around the Horn, and PTI. Today, which marks the start of the Yankees three game series with the Rays in Tampa, FL, the question was brought up if this was "the Yankee's last stand?" The answer to that, of course, is a resounding "NO." The Yankees have been done for a good month now, and have made no real attempts to uplift themselves out of this season-long funk they seem to be in. As sad as it is to know that there will be no playoff baseball in the final year of Yankee Stadium's existence, everyone knows that's what's going to happen, and its time for ESPN to come around.
And so, we as sports fans will come together and ask that ESPN to just let them go. The Yankees are finished and they have been for a while now. Why do you still hang on for hope? We understand that there have been many great years together, but its time now to focus on the more important matters: the rest of baseball.
This is in no way a break-up, more like just a break. Give some of that attention you reserve for the Yankees to some other deserving teams. The Yankees will not be gone forever; they will be back next year in full force, but for now its time to let them go. We know it's difficult, but doing this would make for a better end to the MLB season and would benefit you and all of your adoring fans around the country and the world.
ESPN, we beg of you, don't continue to make yourself look pathetic. Don't keep dragging the Yankees into the conversation. Don't focus your attention on the Bronx. Don't predict, expect, or hope for a late-season surge that would put the Yankees back in the playoffs.
Just let them go.
The Cubs are poised to end their 100-year championship drought, at the very least their 63-year World Series appearance drought. The Rays are on the verge of accomplishing what everyone deemed impossible: going from the worst record to the best record on the strength of pitching, defense, and a whole lot of youth. There is a phenomenal race for the NL Cy Young and neither league has an absolute, bonafide number one contender for the MVP. There are fantastic divisional races in the NL East, West, and Wild Card as well as the AL Central and Wild Card (the other divisions have their winners seemingly locked up). All of this makes for must-see TV as the season wraps up its last month and heads towards what can be expected to be one of the better October's the game has had in a while. With all of this splendor going on, one powerful entity keeps dragging another one along and continuously places them in conversations they have no business being in.
It seems that ESPN just can't let go of the Yankees.
The Yankees have been nothing short of a major disappointment this year. Yes they have had their share of injuries, but for all intents and purposes the team has not lived up to their expectations because they have grossly underachieved. Phil Hughes and Ian Kennedy, two pitchers billed to be fixtures in the Yankee pitching rotation for this season and for years to come have combined to win a grand total of 0 games. Robinson Cano got off to an abysmal start of the season and no matter how many times he looked poised to break out never really got to that point. Melky Cabrera played way below his usual level and was eventually sent back to the minors mid-season, mainly due to his poor hitting. The reigning AL MVP, Alex Rodriguez, has looked no where near the part and after earning some respect and admiration from the Bronx faithful has begun to hear an all-too-familiar chorus of booo's in the recent weeks. Even the beloved Derek Jeter, the Yankee captain, is currently hitting only .296, well below his career average of .316. Aside from a few bright spots in Mike Mussina and Joba Chamberlain, there has been little to root for in the Bronx in 2008.
Despite all of this, ESPN has held on for dear life for any shot that the Yankees would be relevant again. Each and every series they dub as a "must-win" and bring up their chances as a topic for debate in SportsCenter, Baseball Tonight, Around the Horn, and PTI. Today, which marks the start of the Yankees three game series with the Rays in Tampa, FL, the question was brought up if this was "the Yankee's last stand?" The answer to that, of course, is a resounding "NO." The Yankees have been done for a good month now, and have made no real attempts to uplift themselves out of this season-long funk they seem to be in. As sad as it is to know that there will be no playoff baseball in the final year of Yankee Stadium's existence, everyone knows that's what's going to happen, and its time for ESPN to come around.
And so, we as sports fans will come together and ask that ESPN to just let them go. The Yankees are finished and they have been for a while now. Why do you still hang on for hope? We understand that there have been many great years together, but its time now to focus on the more important matters: the rest of baseball.
This is in no way a break-up, more like just a break. Give some of that attention you reserve for the Yankees to some other deserving teams. The Yankees will not be gone forever; they will be back next year in full force, but for now its time to let them go. We know it's difficult, but doing this would make for a better end to the MLB season and would benefit you and all of your adoring fans around the country and the world.
ESPN, we beg of you, don't continue to make yourself look pathetic. Don't keep dragging the Yankees into the conversation. Don't focus your attention on the Bronx. Don't predict, expect, or hope for a late-season surge that would put the Yankees back in the playoffs.
Just let them go.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Just when you thought they were over...
It's been more than a week since the closing ceremony at the Bird's Nest in Beijing, but the Olympic games are by far not over. As eluded to earlier, they may be only beginning:
In equestrian (which is hardly a sport in the first place), a horse named Rufus tested positive for a banned substance, one of six horses to be caught doping during these games. What's sad is the alarming number of horses that have been caught with illegal substances in their systems during these games, even sadder to know Rufus probably didn't inject himself with the drug either. He was set up, his good name sullied. If you asked him, Rufus might say that he never wanted to be injected in the first place, he also might say that equestrian is bogus and he never wanted to compete in the stupid sport in the first place, but that depends on what questions you ask him. Rufus could not be reached for comment and is not expected to speak anytime soon.
As unsettling this news is for the equestrian community, it is equally troubling for the Olympics in general. While this news is tragic in itself, it is not the end of the doping story. In the coming days, weeks, months, and years more and more athletes will be found to have cheated their way to the medal stand. And unfortunately, there will be a high-profile athlete or two thrown in the mix (even human ones).
It has become a part of the Olympic custom to doubt any performance seen in the Olympics until drug tests prove they were indeed legit. Anyone with an above average performance will be pegged - both fairly and unfairly - as a potential cheater. Even during the broadcasts of the events themselves, commentators would speak of the amazing feats just preformed but would end on the all-important phrase: "let's just hope he/she turns out to be clean."
While it seems cynical, the fact of the matter is that athletes can not just be let off without suspicion. Time and time again they are granted the benefit of the doubt and time and time again they disappoint. Rumors have already begun to swirl about Usian Bolt and other athletes from Jamaica and the Caribbean, and as blasphemes as it may sound only time will tell if Michael Phelps's claims of being clean stand up to the microscope.
So for now the world sits and plays the waiting game to see who will emerge as the next Olympic athlete to be found guilty of cheating. No longer is it a matter of "if", only "when."
For the most part, all of these medals were won fair and square, however these totals can be amended at any time when (and hopefully this does not occur) athletes are proven to have cheated through illegal steroids or banned substances (or even, perhaps, age). There is no time-table of when these discoveries can be made, Marion Jones has already taught us that Olympic medals can be stripped at any time...Now begins the discovery stage of the Olympics, were science will begin to alter the history and try to correct the mistakes that had previously gone unpunished. Today, one of those discoveries was made, and it wasn't even the athlete's fault.
In equestrian (which is hardly a sport in the first place), a horse named Rufus tested positive for a banned substance, one of six horses to be caught doping during these games. What's sad is the alarming number of horses that have been caught with illegal substances in their systems during these games, even sadder to know Rufus probably didn't inject himself with the drug either. He was set up, his good name sullied. If you asked him, Rufus might say that he never wanted to be injected in the first place, he also might say that equestrian is bogus and he never wanted to compete in the stupid sport in the first place, but that depends on what questions you ask him. Rufus could not be reached for comment and is not expected to speak anytime soon.
As unsettling this news is for the equestrian community, it is equally troubling for the Olympics in general. While this news is tragic in itself, it is not the end of the doping story. In the coming days, weeks, months, and years more and more athletes will be found to have cheated their way to the medal stand. And unfortunately, there will be a high-profile athlete or two thrown in the mix (even human ones).
It has become a part of the Olympic custom to doubt any performance seen in the Olympics until drug tests prove they were indeed legit. Anyone with an above average performance will be pegged - both fairly and unfairly - as a potential cheater. Even during the broadcasts of the events themselves, commentators would speak of the amazing feats just preformed but would end on the all-important phrase: "let's just hope he/she turns out to be clean."
While it seems cynical, the fact of the matter is that athletes can not just be let off without suspicion. Time and time again they are granted the benefit of the doubt and time and time again they disappoint. Rumors have already begun to swirl about Usian Bolt and other athletes from Jamaica and the Caribbean, and as blasphemes as it may sound only time will tell if Michael Phelps's claims of being clean stand up to the microscope.
So for now the world sits and plays the waiting game to see who will emerge as the next Olympic athlete to be found guilty of cheating. No longer is it a matter of "if", only "when."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
