There is no question that umpire Joe West is the best at what he does. There is also no question that he should be seriously punished for his behavior last week in a Chicago White Sox game. He made the greatest sin of any sports official, he got himself noticed.
West called a balk and was challenged by White Sox Manager Ozzie Guillen. He retaliated with a balk call on the very next pitch.
The number one rule of umpiring is to act behind the scenes. The crowd should never notice the official. When West called what I will call a retaliation balk call he became the most noticed part of the game.
West is not the only one at fault. Ozzie Guillen had no business on the field and he certainly had no right using profanity in his references to West. West should not have reacted by calling a balk on the next pitch, but Guillen got what he earned which was a trip to the showers.
I don't know how you punish umpires but the major leagues need to find a way. Joe West is one of the best but he needs to realize he is there to call the game not be a part of it.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Friday, May 21, 2010
Lessons from recent days
WOERNER’S CORNER
Things I’ve Learned
I’ve once again come to the point where I’m reflecting on some of the things I have learned about current trends in the sports world in recent days.
For example, I have learned it may be time for Ken Griffey Jr. to have a little talk with Muhamad Ali about hanging on too long. Like Ali in the days when he was getting the face he bragged on so much mashed in by opponents, Griffey is starting to embarrass himself. He has now crossed the 40-year-old barrier. That seems to be the beginning of the end for most players.
Griffey has four hits in his last ten games. He has a .212 average and has yet to hit one of his famous, towering homeruns. The Mariners recognized this as they are paying him “only” $2 million this season. That is a pretty big slap in the face when he made $12 million in 2002. Griffey is far from the player who may well be in the Hall of Fame someday.
I have learned that the only thing Dale Earnhardt Jr. has in common with his father is his name. When his car had the No. 8, at least he looked a little like the No. 3 his dad ran. Now with 88 on his Chevrolet he just blends in with the pack. For the most part it has been with most of the other drivers in the field in front of him. “Little E,” as fans like to call him, was winless last year.
Fans got some hope this year with a near-miss second place at Daytona to start the season. Since then the best finish was a seventh place. There was also an eighthplace finish but he came in at No. 32 in another event and had a No. 16 finish. Daddy would not exactly be proud.
I have learned Tiger Woods must have something awful big to hide from his time off the course. He wants his wife to sign a contract saying she will not comment about their private lives in public. The two are reportedly filing for divorce in Sweden in an attempt to keep details of the split secret from the American press.
That is too bad, Elin should let the world know what she is doing to the man who humiliated her and her two beautiful children in front of the world.
I learned I need to pay more attention to baseball this season, particularly in the National League. When the Cincinnati Reds are in first place it is time to take a second look at the standings. It is even more intriguing to see the Pirates in the middle of the pack, still with hope for the fans of Pittsburgh for something interesting before the Steelers take the field.
The American League is still difficult to get into as it has been as long as I can remember because it is the same old thing. The Royals and Orioles are in last place. The Yankees and Red Sox are still fighting hard with each other and a bunch of other teams are fighting to get their name recognized.
The Rays may be the best team in the league this year so that does give American League fans something to cheer for. I will keep watching the National League pulling for the Braves and Cubs thank you very much.
Things I’ve Learned
I’ve once again come to the point where I’m reflecting on some of the things I have learned about current trends in the sports world in recent days.
For example, I have learned it may be time for Ken Griffey Jr. to have a little talk with Muhamad Ali about hanging on too long. Like Ali in the days when he was getting the face he bragged on so much mashed in by opponents, Griffey is starting to embarrass himself. He has now crossed the 40-year-old barrier. That seems to be the beginning of the end for most players.
Griffey has four hits in his last ten games. He has a .212 average and has yet to hit one of his famous, towering homeruns. The Mariners recognized this as they are paying him “only” $2 million this season. That is a pretty big slap in the face when he made $12 million in 2002. Griffey is far from the player who may well be in the Hall of Fame someday.
I have learned that the only thing Dale Earnhardt Jr. has in common with his father is his name. When his car had the No. 8, at least he looked a little like the No. 3 his dad ran. Now with 88 on his Chevrolet he just blends in with the pack. For the most part it has been with most of the other drivers in the field in front of him. “Little E,” as fans like to call him, was winless last year.
Fans got some hope this year with a near-miss second place at Daytona to start the season. Since then the best finish was a seventh place. There was also an eighthplace finish but he came in at No. 32 in another event and had a No. 16 finish. Daddy would not exactly be proud.
I have learned Tiger Woods must have something awful big to hide from his time off the course. He wants his wife to sign a contract saying she will not comment about their private lives in public. The two are reportedly filing for divorce in Sweden in an attempt to keep details of the split secret from the American press.
That is too bad, Elin should let the world know what she is doing to the man who humiliated her and her two beautiful children in front of the world.
I learned I need to pay more attention to baseball this season, particularly in the National League. When the Cincinnati Reds are in first place it is time to take a second look at the standings. It is even more intriguing to see the Pirates in the middle of the pack, still with hope for the fans of Pittsburgh for something interesting before the Steelers take the field.
The American League is still difficult to get into as it has been as long as I can remember because it is the same old thing. The Royals and Orioles are in last place. The Yankees and Red Sox are still fighting hard with each other and a bunch of other teams are fighting to get their name recognized.
The Rays may be the best team in the league this year so that does give American League fans something to cheer for. I will keep watching the National League pulling for the Braves and Cubs thank you very much.
Friday, May 14, 2010
News from The Corner
For all you sports fans who have missed me, The Corner is back open for business.
Here are a few observations from the week.
I think I saw one of the weirdest things in a long time recently. That was the case of a 22 year old who posed as a 17 year old basketball player. The little ploy cost the team he was playing for a state championship. I have to believe there is something wrong with a grown man who still wants to be a teenager. None of us like getting older, as I am this month, but you have to draw the line somewhere, maybe where you think about literally going back to high school!
Just one of those things you have to chalk up as really weird I suppose.
I have never been a big fan of the National Basketball Association but I couldn’t help but notice all the press and uproar over Lebron James. Because he is going through a slump he is being blamed for his team’s playoff problems.
Even though he is one of the best players in NBA history not named Michael Jordan, believe or not James is a human. He is going to make mistakes. He is not the problem if his team loses. Until the Cavaliers put four other quality players on the court they will still fall short.
Even Jordan had Scottie s to take some of the defensive pressure of him. I am not sure James has that kind of player to join him on the court. That means the Cavaliers will continue to lose until they get him some support. The press should get off James’s back about it.
James is going to ask for big money this summer and he should get it. He is the best , despite his playoff performance this year, and he deserves to be paid for.
And, Lawrence Taylor, let it speak for itself. The details are disgusting but the story is sad. The fact he did anything sexual in nature with a teenager should put him in jail.
Chalk it up to another athlete who fame went to his head and destroyed his image.
Here are a few observations from the week.
I think I saw one of the weirdest things in a long time recently. That was the case of a 22 year old who posed as a 17 year old basketball player. The little ploy cost the team he was playing for a state championship. I have to believe there is something wrong with a grown man who still wants to be a teenager. None of us like getting older, as I am this month, but you have to draw the line somewhere, maybe where you think about literally going back to high school!
Just one of those things you have to chalk up as really weird I suppose.
I have never been a big fan of the National Basketball Association but I couldn’t help but notice all the press and uproar over Lebron James. Because he is going through a slump he is being blamed for his team’s playoff problems.
Even though he is one of the best players in NBA history not named Michael Jordan, believe or not James is a human. He is going to make mistakes. He is not the problem if his team loses. Until the Cavaliers put four other quality players on the court they will still fall short.
Even Jordan had Scottie s to take some of the defensive pressure of him. I am not sure James has that kind of player to join him on the court. That means the Cavaliers will continue to lose until they get him some support. The press should get off James’s back about it.
James is going to ask for big money this summer and he should get it. He is the best , despite his playoff performance this year, and he deserves to be paid for.
And, Lawrence Taylor, let it speak for itself. The details are disgusting but the story is sad. The fact he did anything sexual in nature with a teenager should put him in jail.
Chalk it up to another athlete who fame went to his head and destroyed his image.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Master still close to perfect
Masters does it again
By Tom Woerner
For the Record
I am the first to admit that perfection is almost impossible to achieve but I think the folks at Augusta National Golf course came pretty close last weekend. I can’t imagine a better sports experience from beginning to end.
The week began with the two greatest golfers of this generation, Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer, teeing off in the ceremonial first stroke that marks the start of The Masters each year. It ended with winner Phil Mickelson in an emotional embrace with his wife who is in the middle of a battle with cancer.
There was a lot of good golf in between all the emotion of the weekend. My pick of Tiger Woods to win the event didn’t quite come true but he was in the hunt on Sunday and finished tied for fourth. That is a lot better than most predicted. Some said he wouldn’t make the cut in his first tournament back after the sex scandal that rocked his world.
Fred Couples almost made history by becoming the oldest golfer in history to win the event. He faded on Sunday but the fact he was even in the competition shows something about older competitors. Tom Watson is even older and led on parts of Thursday and Friday. He could have easily won the British Open last year. Both show modern equipment and better fitness regimens are allowing older golfers to compete longer.
When this year’s Masters was over I think Mickelson showed he may be stalking Tiger in the battle to become the world’s best on the course. He hit shots Sunday that only a few in the world could pull off. He is beginning to put his history of falling apart on Sunday afternoon in the past. There were no hook shots into the gallery like the one that cost him the U.S. Open several years ago. This time he and his caddy made all the right club selections, which has not always been the case in the past.
Once again the underlying star of the tournament was the course itself. It could well have been my imagination, but the grass seemed a little greener this year. The azaleas were as beautiful as ever. Golfers were challenged as much as they are every year. Augusta is the one of the hardest courses in the world and I can’t imagine a course anywhere that is more beautiful.
The bottom line of the whole weekend is that once again Augusta National put on the best sports event in the world. There is no venue in the world that is better prepared for its event.
When one walks down Magnolia Lane they are walking into the pages of history. Unique features such as the Nelson and Sarazen bridges, Amen Corner. Eisenhower Tree and the Crow’s Nest add to the mystique. There truly is no place like it in the sports world.
This year was even better than usual thanks to a little luck and good fortune. The tournament lived up to its reputation and the 2010 version is another chapter in a great legacy. The wait is on for Jack and Arnie to tee us off again next April.
By Tom Woerner
For the Record
I am the first to admit that perfection is almost impossible to achieve but I think the folks at Augusta National Golf course came pretty close last weekend. I can’t imagine a better sports experience from beginning to end.
The week began with the two greatest golfers of this generation, Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer, teeing off in the ceremonial first stroke that marks the start of The Masters each year. It ended with winner Phil Mickelson in an emotional embrace with his wife who is in the middle of a battle with cancer.
There was a lot of good golf in between all the emotion of the weekend. My pick of Tiger Woods to win the event didn’t quite come true but he was in the hunt on Sunday and finished tied for fourth. That is a lot better than most predicted. Some said he wouldn’t make the cut in his first tournament back after the sex scandal that rocked his world.
Fred Couples almost made history by becoming the oldest golfer in history to win the event. He faded on Sunday but the fact he was even in the competition shows something about older competitors. Tom Watson is even older and led on parts of Thursday and Friday. He could have easily won the British Open last year. Both show modern equipment and better fitness regimens are allowing older golfers to compete longer.
When this year’s Masters was over I think Mickelson showed he may be stalking Tiger in the battle to become the world’s best on the course. He hit shots Sunday that only a few in the world could pull off. He is beginning to put his history of falling apart on Sunday afternoon in the past. There were no hook shots into the gallery like the one that cost him the U.S. Open several years ago. This time he and his caddy made all the right club selections, which has not always been the case in the past.
Once again the underlying star of the tournament was the course itself. It could well have been my imagination, but the grass seemed a little greener this year. The azaleas were as beautiful as ever. Golfers were challenged as much as they are every year. Augusta is the one of the hardest courses in the world and I can’t imagine a course anywhere that is more beautiful.
The bottom line of the whole weekend is that once again Augusta National put on the best sports event in the world. There is no venue in the world that is better prepared for its event.
When one walks down Magnolia Lane they are walking into the pages of history. Unique features such as the Nelson and Sarazen bridges, Amen Corner. Eisenhower Tree and the Crow’s Nest add to the mystique. There truly is no place like it in the sports world.
This year was even better than usual thanks to a little luck and good fortune. The tournament lived up to its reputation and the 2010 version is another chapter in a great legacy. The wait is on for Jack and Arnie to tee us off again next April.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Final Four picks a little off
Final Four Picks Come Up Short
I thought it was broken with some recent picks, but the jinx of the Corner lives on. Apparently, it spread itself throughout the duration of the NCAA tournament with teams I picked falling like incumbents in this fall’s congressional elections.
I guess I should apologize to West Virginia if my prognostications brought them any bad luck. I underestimated Duke coach Mike Kryzewski and his ability to motivate a team in March and April.
In the case of Michigan State, I would probably pick them again if they played Butler again next week. I think the Spartans became the victim of one of the legendary tournaments for which the NCAA is famous.
The Butler Bulldogs were a fairytale that almost ended with everyone, with the exception of anyone living in Durham, living happily ever after. Literally, a few bounces of the ball on a last minute shot kept them from winning the whole thing. If they had won in front of their hometown crowd it would have been one of the greatest stories in tournament history. It would have been almost as dramatic as the 1983 North Carolina State ride to the national championship.
It may be good they lost in one way, I am not sure how Indianapolis would have handled the victory celebration. Fans in Durham are used to the celebrations but it would have been chaos and mania after a Bulldog win. Fans may get another chance because I believe the team has a taste of the tournament in its mouth. They’re already likely getting ready, in their mind, for next year’s run at the title.
Duke is the one who was determined to leave me with an egg on my face. They put down a West Virginia team I really thought was rolling towards the title. Coach K did one of the greatest coaching jobs of his legendary career. His team beat the Mountaineers soundly and managed to hold off Butler, an accomplishment in this tournament.
That is probably why billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov, the new owner of the New Jersey Nets, will reportedly offer him at least $12 million to lead his team. I am a little leery of making predictions now but I don’t think Coach K will go anywhere at this point. That kind of money will get his attention, but his heart is at Duke. 20 years ago it might have been a different story. Now he has the perfect job in a more than stable financial situation. I think he will retire in North Carolina.
I can’t put a column out this week without one more word about Tiger Woods. Two words, three might be more appropriate, if directed towards the rest of the Masters field. Watch out.
Don’t be surprised if he wins big. The incident when he played with a broken bone in his leg and won the U.S. Open shows he can put things out of his head when he hits the golf course.
Just because the public hasn’t seen it doesn’t mean Tiger hasn’t been hitting balls. When he steps up to the first tee between the azaleas — affairs, Thanksgiving wrecks, crude text messages and a difficult home situation will temporarily go out of his mind. I will go out on a limb to say Master’s officials better find out what size Tiger wears in a green jacket.
I thought it was broken with some recent picks, but the jinx of the Corner lives on. Apparently, it spread itself throughout the duration of the NCAA tournament with teams I picked falling like incumbents in this fall’s congressional elections.
I guess I should apologize to West Virginia if my prognostications brought them any bad luck. I underestimated Duke coach Mike Kryzewski and his ability to motivate a team in March and April.
In the case of Michigan State, I would probably pick them again if they played Butler again next week. I think the Spartans became the victim of one of the legendary tournaments for which the NCAA is famous.
The Butler Bulldogs were a fairytale that almost ended with everyone, with the exception of anyone living in Durham, living happily ever after. Literally, a few bounces of the ball on a last minute shot kept them from winning the whole thing. If they had won in front of their hometown crowd it would have been one of the greatest stories in tournament history. It would have been almost as dramatic as the 1983 North Carolina State ride to the national championship.
It may be good they lost in one way, I am not sure how Indianapolis would have handled the victory celebration. Fans in Durham are used to the celebrations but it would have been chaos and mania after a Bulldog win. Fans may get another chance because I believe the team has a taste of the tournament in its mouth. They’re already likely getting ready, in their mind, for next year’s run at the title.
Duke is the one who was determined to leave me with an egg on my face. They put down a West Virginia team I really thought was rolling towards the title. Coach K did one of the greatest coaching jobs of his legendary career. His team beat the Mountaineers soundly and managed to hold off Butler, an accomplishment in this tournament.
That is probably why billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov, the new owner of the New Jersey Nets, will reportedly offer him at least $12 million to lead his team. I am a little leery of making predictions now but I don’t think Coach K will go anywhere at this point. That kind of money will get his attention, but his heart is at Duke. 20 years ago it might have been a different story. Now he has the perfect job in a more than stable financial situation. I think he will retire in North Carolina.
I can’t put a column out this week without one more word about Tiger Woods. Two words, three might be more appropriate, if directed towards the rest of the Masters field. Watch out.
Don’t be surprised if he wins big. The incident when he played with a broken bone in his leg and won the U.S. Open shows he can put things out of his head when he hits the golf course.
Just because the public hasn’t seen it doesn’t mean Tiger hasn’t been hitting balls. When he steps up to the first tee between the azaleas — affairs, Thanksgiving wrecks, crude text messages and a difficult home situation will temporarily go out of his mind. I will go out on a limb to say Master’s officials better find out what size Tiger wears in a green jacket.
Monday, March 15, 2010
There are a lot of things wrong with Carolina basketball this year, but the one thing that is right about it is the reason there is at least some hope left in this season. What happens for the Tar Heels in the National Invitational Tournament, remains to be seen but observers of post season basketball can be sure of one thing. There is going to be some fight left in the men in light blue and white as long as Roy Williams is behind the bench.
Coach Williams said several things recently that tell the tale of this season. He first said he hasn’t been able to find all the answers as a coach. A little piece of news, if Coach Williams can’t find them, I am not sure the answers are out there.
The second thing he said speaks more of the season from my perspective. He said this year’s team hasn’t played with the intensity almost every other North Carolina team has. No kidding.
I had to do a double take while watching the Duke game last week. The last time I have seen that many mistakes at one time on a court I was a coach of ten-yearold girls! That is only a slight exaggeration. It was that bad on the court against the Blue Devils and it has been most times out for the Heels this year.
The number of loose balls, unexplained actions and just plain careless plays was incredible. It must have been a frustrating end to an incredibly frustrating year for one of the top five coaches in the country.
Coach Williams also said he refuses to “go through the motions” in practice, accepting that it’s just been a bad year. That is the mark of a good coach, already getting ready for next season. He is quickly showing that winning on the big stage in college basketball is a year-long process.
Funny thing but of all the things you have heard in media reports this year there likely hasn’t been much mention of replacing Coach Williams. The only thing less likely than that would be talk of replacing Coach “K” at Duke. Those guys will coach kids wearing blue uniforms, of one shade or another, just as long as they want to or until something natural causes them to stop.
Fans of N.C. State should learn a lesson. One only has to say the words Herb Sendek to make that point.
Hopefully they will remember the past and let Sidney Lowe at least have a chance to turn his boat around. If State fans would have had patience, the Pack would be enjoying the success of Arizona State, where Sendek now coaches and won coach of the year this year.
Don’t be surprised if there is something good left in the season for the Tar Heels. Don’t be surprised at a positive showing in the National Invitational Tournament. Whatever happens, one thing is for sure, and that is any team coached by Roy Williams will always have at least a chance to win. If Coach Williams can come up with the motivational tool that has eluded him, there could still be some joy in Mudville this year.
Coach Williams said several things recently that tell the tale of this season. He first said he hasn’t been able to find all the answers as a coach. A little piece of news, if Coach Williams can’t find them, I am not sure the answers are out there.
The second thing he said speaks more of the season from my perspective. He said this year’s team hasn’t played with the intensity almost every other North Carolina team has. No kidding.
I had to do a double take while watching the Duke game last week. The last time I have seen that many mistakes at one time on a court I was a coach of ten-yearold girls! That is only a slight exaggeration. It was that bad on the court against the Blue Devils and it has been most times out for the Heels this year.
The number of loose balls, unexplained actions and just plain careless plays was incredible. It must have been a frustrating end to an incredibly frustrating year for one of the top five coaches in the country.
Coach Williams also said he refuses to “go through the motions” in practice, accepting that it’s just been a bad year. That is the mark of a good coach, already getting ready for next season. He is quickly showing that winning on the big stage in college basketball is a year-long process.
Funny thing but of all the things you have heard in media reports this year there likely hasn’t been much mention of replacing Coach Williams. The only thing less likely than that would be talk of replacing Coach “K” at Duke. Those guys will coach kids wearing blue uniforms, of one shade or another, just as long as they want to or until something natural causes them to stop.
Fans of N.C. State should learn a lesson. One only has to say the words Herb Sendek to make that point.
Hopefully they will remember the past and let Sidney Lowe at least have a chance to turn his boat around. If State fans would have had patience, the Pack would be enjoying the success of Arizona State, where Sendek now coaches and won coach of the year this year.
Don’t be surprised if there is something good left in the season for the Tar Heels. Don’t be surprised at a positive showing in the National Invitational Tournament. Whatever happens, one thing is for sure, and that is any team coached by Roy Williams will always have at least a chance to win. If Coach Williams can come up with the motivational tool that has eluded him, there could still be some joy in Mudville this year.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Nicklaus on the money
Jack Nicklaus was right about a few things when discussing the issue of Tiger Woods. Primarily he is right in that Tiger is getting ready for Augusta, whether or not he or anyone else wants to admit it. The best golfer in the world will not let the most prestigious tournament in the world go by without being part of it. Augusta will be the perfect place for his comeback because there the media is limited. The Augusta people are going to protect their event whether or not Tiger is there. They will not let it become a spectacle. Tiger knows that which is why the clubs are out of the bag and he is practicing again.
When he does step up to the number one tee box I will only say one thing, watch out. The man is going to prove to the world that his problems off the course can be put behind him while chasing the little white ball. He is going to prove what golf fans already know, he has one of the most powerful and most focused game day minds in history.
A call from The Corner, Tiger wins the green jacket going away.
Nicklaus is right about one other thing and that is Tiger's situation is no one's business but Tiger's and his families. We can focus on what goes on between the ropes. What goes on away from the course is irrelevant. Sports journalism should be about reporting scores and highlights, not the personal details of a player's life.
When he does step up to the number one tee box I will only say one thing, watch out. The man is going to prove to the world that his problems off the course can be put behind him while chasing the little white ball. He is going to prove what golf fans already know, he has one of the most powerful and most focused game day minds in history.
A call from The Corner, Tiger wins the green jacket going away.
Nicklaus is right about one other thing and that is Tiger's situation is no one's business but Tiger's and his families. We can focus on what goes on between the ropes. What goes on away from the course is irrelevant. Sports journalism should be about reporting scores and highlights, not the personal details of a player's life.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Camels getting my attention
WOERNER’S CORNER
Camels Welcome In The Corner
I have to admit something right off the top this week and that is I am guilty of animal neglect. Now that I have gotten the attention of the PETA types of the world, let me note that it is not dogs, cats or horses but Camels about which I have seem to forgotten.
I was sorry to read a release this week that the Fighting Camels of Campbell University played their last men’s home game. That means I wrote a column every week during the basketball season without mentioning a team doing something neither the Tarheels nor Wolfpack have thought about, winning their conference regular season title. It means I didn’t get a chance to see the Atlantic Sun’s fourth leading scorer, Jonathan Rodriguez.
It means I didn’t do something I have wanted to do for a long time, join the 3,000-plus people who have flocked to the Gore Arena to watch Camels games at differenttimes this year. There is one saving grace and that is the season’s not over yet. Campbell is in the middle of a sixgame winning streak and recently won four games in eight days. Those numbers are impressive in any arena, at any level.
It is time for me to do better. Coach Robbie Laing has my commitment. The Camels have the full attention of The Corner for the rest of the year.
I will give the Atlantic Sun Conference my attention as the post season comes upon us. I will pull hard for the Camels in their conference tournament as that is likely the only way they will make the NCAA tournament. I don’t have to worry about them playing my usual favorites. The story of the Wolfpack is obvious. When it comes to basketball, East Carolina has trouble competing with some high schools in some years.
This could be the year Campbell makes a statement on the national scene. The Camels lost in the first round several years ago when they were seeded last and played a top-seeded team.
This year they will likely be higher ranked because of their record. That is why the final games and the conference tournament are so important. Simply translated, a better record means an easier game in the first round. Teams seeded in the last place position have never won a first round game but those in the positions only slightly higher on the ladder have pulled off upsets throughout the tournament’s history.
There is an argument to made that Campbell has the best team of the three when putting them in the same boat with Roy Williams or Sidney Lowe’s squads in Chapel Hill and Raleigh.
Folks in Buies Creek would probably pay big bucks to see their team take on either one of those two this year. I admit I would love to be on press row for one of those games.
I am ashamed to say this is the first time I have mentioned the Camels in my writings this year but I look forward to more coverage in the near future. Let’s get out the orange and black and pull hard for the boys from the Creek.
Camels Welcome In The Corner
I have to admit something right off the top this week and that is I am guilty of animal neglect. Now that I have gotten the attention of the PETA types of the world, let me note that it is not dogs, cats or horses but Camels about which I have seem to forgotten.
I was sorry to read a release this week that the Fighting Camels of Campbell University played their last men’s home game. That means I wrote a column every week during the basketball season without mentioning a team doing something neither the Tarheels nor Wolfpack have thought about, winning their conference regular season title. It means I didn’t get a chance to see the Atlantic Sun’s fourth leading scorer, Jonathan Rodriguez.
It means I didn’t do something I have wanted to do for a long time, join the 3,000-plus people who have flocked to the Gore Arena to watch Camels games at differenttimes this year. There is one saving grace and that is the season’s not over yet. Campbell is in the middle of a sixgame winning streak and recently won four games in eight days. Those numbers are impressive in any arena, at any level.
It is time for me to do better. Coach Robbie Laing has my commitment. The Camels have the full attention of The Corner for the rest of the year.
I will give the Atlantic Sun Conference my attention as the post season comes upon us. I will pull hard for the Camels in their conference tournament as that is likely the only way they will make the NCAA tournament. I don’t have to worry about them playing my usual favorites. The story of the Wolfpack is obvious. When it comes to basketball, East Carolina has trouble competing with some high schools in some years.
This could be the year Campbell makes a statement on the national scene. The Camels lost in the first round several years ago when they were seeded last and played a top-seeded team.
This year they will likely be higher ranked because of their record. That is why the final games and the conference tournament are so important. Simply translated, a better record means an easier game in the first round. Teams seeded in the last place position have never won a first round game but those in the positions only slightly higher on the ladder have pulled off upsets throughout the tournament’s history.
There is an argument to made that Campbell has the best team of the three when putting them in the same boat with Roy Williams or Sidney Lowe’s squads in Chapel Hill and Raleigh.
Folks in Buies Creek would probably pay big bucks to see their team take on either one of those two this year. I admit I would love to be on press row for one of those games.
I am ashamed to say this is the first time I have mentioned the Camels in my writings this year but I look forward to more coverage in the near future. Let’s get out the orange and black and pull hard for the boys from the Creek.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Facilities part of the game
WOERNER’S CORNER
Facilities Are Part Of The Games
From Harnett County to Daytona and Vancouver, sports facilities have made the news in recent days. Throughout history where games have been played have always important, but it is particularly true when something goes wrong, which seems to be the case in recent days. It is a toss up as to who deserves more criticism between the ground crews at Daytona International Speedway or those in charge at the Winter Olympics.
The race in Daytona this year became a spectacle with cars forced to veer around potholes on the track. It was a disappointment to fans who paid big money to watch the race or those sitting in front of their television sets for what turned into a marathon session. More importantly, it was a real safety issue.
Small holes become big problems when cars traveling 190 miles per hour are involved. It is difficult to understand why after hundreds of races that problem shouldn’t have been preventable. Why, after hundreds of races did asphalt suddenly become a problem at one of the world’s best known race tracks?
It is not exactly a great way for NASCAR to kick off its 2010 season. Maybe the road crews will head back to Daytona before the fast cars do.
The facility issue is much more tragic in the case of the Olympics because it resulted in a death. There have been changes made to the Whistler luge track after the death of a Georgian luger. Those changes should have been made long before anyone went down the track in the first place.
Nodar Kumaritashvili, who died, told his parents he was scared of the track, and the turn where the accident occurred, shortly before his death. If he was aware of the problem, those maintaining the track should have been also. It was a severe lack of planning on a $100 million project that resulted in death.
Hopefully the changes that were made will work to prevent it from happening again.
It seems the entire Vancouver Olympics is full of logistical issues. In the opening ceremony, the four-pronged torch only had three prongs which rose from the ground in the three dimensional opening ceremony. It was still impressive but the world was left wondering what the full effect would have been.
Trucks have been forced to bring in snow because warm temperatures and snow have not mixed well.
Understandably, they can’t control the weather, but it seems based on prior weather patterns officials should have thought carefully about their choice for an Olympic venue.
Facilities Are Part Of The Games
From Harnett County to Daytona and Vancouver, sports facilities have made the news in recent days. Throughout history where games have been played have always important, but it is particularly true when something goes wrong, which seems to be the case in recent days. It is a toss up as to who deserves more criticism between the ground crews at Daytona International Speedway or those in charge at the Winter Olympics.
The race in Daytona this year became a spectacle with cars forced to veer around potholes on the track. It was a disappointment to fans who paid big money to watch the race or those sitting in front of their television sets for what turned into a marathon session. More importantly, it was a real safety issue.
Small holes become big problems when cars traveling 190 miles per hour are involved. It is difficult to understand why after hundreds of races that problem shouldn’t have been preventable. Why, after hundreds of races did asphalt suddenly become a problem at one of the world’s best known race tracks?
It is not exactly a great way for NASCAR to kick off its 2010 season. Maybe the road crews will head back to Daytona before the fast cars do.
The facility issue is much more tragic in the case of the Olympics because it resulted in a death. There have been changes made to the Whistler luge track after the death of a Georgian luger. Those changes should have been made long before anyone went down the track in the first place.
Nodar Kumaritashvili, who died, told his parents he was scared of the track, and the turn where the accident occurred, shortly before his death. If he was aware of the problem, those maintaining the track should have been also. It was a severe lack of planning on a $100 million project that resulted in death.
Hopefully the changes that were made will work to prevent it from happening again.
It seems the entire Vancouver Olympics is full of logistical issues. In the opening ceremony, the four-pronged torch only had three prongs which rose from the ground in the three dimensional opening ceremony. It was still impressive but the world was left wondering what the full effect would have been.
Trucks have been forced to bring in snow because warm temperatures and snow have not mixed well.
Understandably, they can’t control the weather, but it seems based on prior weather patterns officials should have thought carefully about their choice for an Olympic venue.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Tiger needs to do more
There is no doubt Tiger Woods was feeling pain in his statement Friday. He looked truly sorry for his transgressions that have come to light since Thanksgiving night Unfortunately he didn't do enough to restore the faith of his fans..
Tiger did nothing to reassure the golf world he will once again carry it on his back. He quickly said he wouldn't rule out returning to the game this year. That was it golf fans. Those of us looking for a specific date left our televisions or computers with confusion on our face.
It is hard to imagine he will let Augusta pass without throwing himself into the hunt.
Tiger will not be able to resist the urge to compete on golf's biggest stage. Look for the man with the red shirt on Sunday to be in the hunt for another green jacket.
Tiger's performance Friday was just that. It was a staged event to divert attention from the Accenture match play event. It is no coincidence Accenture was the first company to drop Tiger as its spokes man.
Tiger Woods is the best golfer in the game but he has yet to prove he wants to win back the pack of fans that follow him all over golf courses around the world. He quickly disappeared behind a curtain when the show was over Friday leaving the world to wonder about the next chapter in the saga. For the sake of his family I hope it means a big reunion but it is difficult to believe that will happen any time soon.
Tiger did nothing to reassure the golf world he will once again carry it on his back. He quickly said he wouldn't rule out returning to the game this year. That was it golf fans. Those of us looking for a specific date left our televisions or computers with confusion on our face.
It is hard to imagine he will let Augusta pass without throwing himself into the hunt.
Tiger will not be able to resist the urge to compete on golf's biggest stage. Look for the man with the red shirt on Sunday to be in the hunt for another green jacket.
Tiger's performance Friday was just that. It was a staged event to divert attention from the Accenture match play event. It is no coincidence Accenture was the first company to drop Tiger as its spokes man.
Tiger Woods is the best golfer in the game but he has yet to prove he wants to win back the pack of fans that follow him all over golf courses around the world. He quickly disappeared behind a curtain when the show was over Friday leaving the world to wonder about the next chapter in the saga. For the sake of his family I hope it means a big reunion but it is difficult to believe that will happen any time soon.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
A look back on the big game
A Super Bowl review
By Tom Woerner
For the Record
I have to say this year’s Super Bowl was one of the best I remember. There was good football, great commercials and I think one of the great sports stories in recent years.
The game established for sure what was true before the kickoff. The Saints were the best team in the league this year. They played the last game like they did the rest of the season and deserved to get the win. They deserve a giant Kudos from The Corner for their efforts, even if they came up a little short.
Believe it or not there was a time back in 2005 when I wondered about the existence of the New Orleans Saints. I wondered if they would ever return to the building still burdened with the awful smell of Katrina death. I never dreamed that five years later they would be taking a Lombardi Trophy back to that building. A city where people were fleeing by the thousands now welcomes a group of brave gridiron heroes home.
The story of Katrina was quickly put into the history books for the team Sunday. Most people will remember the 2010 Super Bowl champions before they think of that American tragedy.
It took the Saints a while to get untracked Sunday but they put together a great effort. They won on a big defensive interception but they played great on both sides of the ball all night.
The Saints have Drew Brees largely to thank for their success but one thing remains clear. Though he threw an untimely interception, Peyton Manning is the best quarterback in the league
He made passes in the Super Bowl I don’t think any other quarterback, including Brees, could make. He leads his team as well as anyone else in the league. He didn’t win the big game this year but there is no doubt Manning will eventually win another Super Bowl.
There is always a so called competition for the best Super Bowl ad. I saw a lot of them but my hands on choice goes to the one for Doritos entitled Dog Gets Revenge. That is where a small dog gets revenge on his owner by fitting him with an anti-bark, electronic shock device. The commercial with Tim Tebow in his mother, sponsored by Focus on the Family, received the press, but it required to much thinking for me. The topic of abortion is way to deep for a football game.
The good commercials provided entertainment between the hot action on the field. I didn’t even hear one note of The Who’s half time show, the chili seemed more interesting.
I think this year’s Super Bowl could be a turning point for the National Football League. The Saints and their story brought in fans who have drifted in recent years. It is not unlike what happened to the New York Yankees and Mets in the days following the September 11 terrorist attacks. The country suddenly came around the teams so horribly affected by these events.
The National Football League can only hope the new fans of the Saints will stick around longer than the post Sept. 11 baseball fans of the Yankees did. I think football fans are more resilient and will be back next year. They will wait for another Super Bowl as good as this year’s but it will be hard to find one.
By Tom Woerner
For the Record
I have to say this year’s Super Bowl was one of the best I remember. There was good football, great commercials and I think one of the great sports stories in recent years.
The game established for sure what was true before the kickoff. The Saints were the best team in the league this year. They played the last game like they did the rest of the season and deserved to get the win. They deserve a giant Kudos from The Corner for their efforts, even if they came up a little short.
Believe it or not there was a time back in 2005 when I wondered about the existence of the New Orleans Saints. I wondered if they would ever return to the building still burdened with the awful smell of Katrina death. I never dreamed that five years later they would be taking a Lombardi Trophy back to that building. A city where people were fleeing by the thousands now welcomes a group of brave gridiron heroes home.
The story of Katrina was quickly put into the history books for the team Sunday. Most people will remember the 2010 Super Bowl champions before they think of that American tragedy.
It took the Saints a while to get untracked Sunday but they put together a great effort. They won on a big defensive interception but they played great on both sides of the ball all night.
The Saints have Drew Brees largely to thank for their success but one thing remains clear. Though he threw an untimely interception, Peyton Manning is the best quarterback in the league
He made passes in the Super Bowl I don’t think any other quarterback, including Brees, could make. He leads his team as well as anyone else in the league. He didn’t win the big game this year but there is no doubt Manning will eventually win another Super Bowl.
There is always a so called competition for the best Super Bowl ad. I saw a lot of them but my hands on choice goes to the one for Doritos entitled Dog Gets Revenge. That is where a small dog gets revenge on his owner by fitting him with an anti-bark, electronic shock device. The commercial with Tim Tebow in his mother, sponsored by Focus on the Family, received the press, but it required to much thinking for me. The topic of abortion is way to deep for a football game.
The good commercials provided entertainment between the hot action on the field. I didn’t even hear one note of The Who’s half time show, the chili seemed more interesting.
I think this year’s Super Bowl could be a turning point for the National Football League. The Saints and their story brought in fans who have drifted in recent years. It is not unlike what happened to the New York Yankees and Mets in the days following the September 11 terrorist attacks. The country suddenly came around the teams so horribly affected by these events.
The National Football League can only hope the new fans of the Saints will stick around longer than the post Sept. 11 baseball fans of the Yankees did. I think football fans are more resilient and will be back next year. They will wait for another Super Bowl as good as this year’s but it will be hard to find one.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
A little more Super Bowl fun
Five more things that come to mind about the Super Bowl, not necessarily people
1. Bud Bowl- Any of us who are really honest will admit cheering for either Bud or Bud Light in the greatest ad series in Super Bowl history
2. Cheese dip, guacamole and Lord knows what else- A lot of people will go home from a Super Bowl party Sunday night and not know the winner. It won't be because of alcohol but because they are still thinking of the spread. Either that or they are cleaning up from the one at their house!
3. Pre game shows that are way to long. It is Thursday and I think the "Super Bowl Today" is already on. Funny thing is it should be called Super Bowl Ads today. As with most things, money is doing the talking
4. The weather, it is always great, unless the game is inside. I know it is designed that way, for the game to be in a warm location, but wouldn't it be great to see the Super Bowl in Green Bay someday. A New England snow storm would be perfect.
5. Bill Belicheck-Ok he is number 15 and last on my Super Bowl list, the guy just rubs me the wrong way, but you can't knock the way he coaches. Right there with Jimmy Johnson, Tom Landry and Bill Walsh as the best coaches in Super Bowl history
1. Bud Bowl- Any of us who are really honest will admit cheering for either Bud or Bud Light in the greatest ad series in Super Bowl history
2. Cheese dip, guacamole and Lord knows what else- A lot of people will go home from a Super Bowl party Sunday night and not know the winner. It won't be because of alcohol but because they are still thinking of the spread. Either that or they are cleaning up from the one at their house!
3. Pre game shows that are way to long. It is Thursday and I think the "Super Bowl Today" is already on. Funny thing is it should be called Super Bowl Ads today. As with most things, money is doing the talking
4. The weather, it is always great, unless the game is inside. I know it is designed that way, for the game to be in a warm location, but wouldn't it be great to see the Super Bowl in Green Bay someday. A New England snow storm would be perfect.
5. Bill Belicheck-Ok he is number 15 and last on my Super Bowl list, the guy just rubs me the wrong way, but you can't knock the way he coaches. Right there with Jimmy Johnson, Tom Landry and Bill Walsh as the best coaches in Super Bowl history
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Super Bowl names
OK. No real rhyme or reason to it but the top ten names that come to my mind when it comes to the Super Bowl
1. Joe Montana-Mr. Super Bowl, great team leader.
2. Troy Aikman- The Ultimate Super Bowl Captain
3. Adam Vinitieri- best Super Bowl kicker, just ask the Panthers!
4. Ron Jaworski-don't know why he comes to mind but I loved number 7 throwing to number 17 (Harold Carmichael) even if their Eagles lost to the Raiders.
5. Jerry Rice-Wow! Probably the best receiver in Super Bowl, and NFL history.
6. John Madden-along with his partner Pat Summeral, best big game announcers.
7. Fran Tarkenton-the most loveable loser in Super Bowl history
8. Kurt Warner-St. Louis Rams, Arizona Cardinals quarter back-knew how to play on the big stage
9. Scott Norwood-Buffalo Bills kicker. Heartbreak Hotel.
10. Janet Jackson-who cares but most of can't forget her performance, no matter how hard we try!
1. Joe Montana-Mr. Super Bowl, great team leader.
2. Troy Aikman- The Ultimate Super Bowl Captain
3. Adam Vinitieri- best Super Bowl kicker, just ask the Panthers!
4. Ron Jaworski-don't know why he comes to mind but I loved number 7 throwing to number 17 (Harold Carmichael) even if their Eagles lost to the Raiders.
5. Jerry Rice-Wow! Probably the best receiver in Super Bowl, and NFL history.
6. John Madden-along with his partner Pat Summeral, best big game announcers.
7. Fran Tarkenton-the most loveable loser in Super Bowl history
8. Kurt Warner-St. Louis Rams, Arizona Cardinals quarter back-knew how to play on the big stage
9. Scott Norwood-Buffalo Bills kicker. Heartbreak Hotel.
10. Janet Jackson-who cares but most of can't forget her performance, no matter how hard we try!
Friday, January 29, 2010
Super Bowl trivia
Super Bowl Full
Of Interesting Factoids
Like anything that has gone on for more than 40 years, the Super Bowl brings with it a variety of interesting facts, trivia and information. The heroes, great games and last minute finishes are well entrenched in the history books, but some other things which are equally as interesting have faded away with time.
For many that is the case with the name Mike Lodish. True fans of the game, as well as those of the Denver Broncos and Buffalo Bills, might know him as a 270-pound defensive lineman. Real Super Bowl experts know he has the distinction of taking part in more Super Bowl losses than any player in history. He participated in a total of six Super Bowls and lost all of them.
There is at least one player who had to issue an all points bulletin for their helmet. Apparently it took an anonymous caller with a hot tip for police in order for Emmitt Smith to find one of his Cowboy helmets worn in the Super Bowl.
It seems like Smith isn’t the only Cowboy with a rather dubious claim to Super Bowl fame. The most famous Cowboy of my generation, Roger Staubach, holds the record for most turnovers in a game after he gave the ball back five times in one game.
Even with that performance, the Buffalo Bills saved the Cowboys by fumbling seven times as a team to hold the record for most give-aways in one game.
The Cowboys as a whole hold the record for most penalties in a game, receiving a whopping 12 penalties in one four-quarter period.
The San Francisco 49ers have faltered somewhat in recent years but at the current time they hold several distinctions in Super Bowl history. The 49ers have hoisted the Lombardi Trophy five times in their history.
The 49ers’ most famous quarterback, Joe Montana, held the previous record with five touchdowns in a Super Bowl game before Steve Young, another San Francisco signal-caller, threw for six touchdowns in Super Bowl XXIX.
In one unofficial observation, I would say Montana is the best Super Bowl quarterback I have seen. Ironically, Jim Kelly, who lost four big games as a Bill, comes to my mind as the second best quarterback I have seen in the championshipgame. Washington Redskins quarterback Mark Rypien holds a record definitely not held by anyone else. He is the only Super Bowl most valuable player born in Canada.
Like players, there are dozens of coaches who have made their way into the Super Bowl record book for a variety of reasons. One of the most interesting records is one held by three coaches, Denver Broncos Coach Dan Reaves, Chicago Bears Coach Mike Ditka and Indianapolis Colts Coach Tony Dungy. They are the only three men who have won Super Bowls as a coach, assistant coach and player.
And an exercise in Super Bowl trivia wouldn’t be complete without mention of those of us who do nothing more than watch the game, stuffing our mouths the whole time. According to statistics, five percent of us will watch the game by ourselves. The average Super Bowl party size is 17 people. In one recent year, people took in more than eight million pounds of guacamole as they watched the big game.
Again, it’s just useless information, but it’s part of the Super Bowl fun. This year we have the Pro Bowl before the big game, but it won’t matter. There’s nothing like the countdown to Super Bowl kickoff and the fun it creates. Now there is just over one week left.
Of Interesting Factoids
Like anything that has gone on for more than 40 years, the Super Bowl brings with it a variety of interesting facts, trivia and information. The heroes, great games and last minute finishes are well entrenched in the history books, but some other things which are equally as interesting have faded away with time.
For many that is the case with the name Mike Lodish. True fans of the game, as well as those of the Denver Broncos and Buffalo Bills, might know him as a 270-pound defensive lineman. Real Super Bowl experts know he has the distinction of taking part in more Super Bowl losses than any player in history. He participated in a total of six Super Bowls and lost all of them.
There is at least one player who had to issue an all points bulletin for their helmet. Apparently it took an anonymous caller with a hot tip for police in order for Emmitt Smith to find one of his Cowboy helmets worn in the Super Bowl.
It seems like Smith isn’t the only Cowboy with a rather dubious claim to Super Bowl fame. The most famous Cowboy of my generation, Roger Staubach, holds the record for most turnovers in a game after he gave the ball back five times in one game.
Even with that performance, the Buffalo Bills saved the Cowboys by fumbling seven times as a team to hold the record for most give-aways in one game.
The Cowboys as a whole hold the record for most penalties in a game, receiving a whopping 12 penalties in one four-quarter period.
The San Francisco 49ers have faltered somewhat in recent years but at the current time they hold several distinctions in Super Bowl history. The 49ers have hoisted the Lombardi Trophy five times in their history.
The 49ers’ most famous quarterback, Joe Montana, held the previous record with five touchdowns in a Super Bowl game before Steve Young, another San Francisco signal-caller, threw for six touchdowns in Super Bowl XXIX.
In one unofficial observation, I would say Montana is the best Super Bowl quarterback I have seen. Ironically, Jim Kelly, who lost four big games as a Bill, comes to my mind as the second best quarterback I have seen in the championshipgame. Washington Redskins quarterback Mark Rypien holds a record definitely not held by anyone else. He is the only Super Bowl most valuable player born in Canada.
Like players, there are dozens of coaches who have made their way into the Super Bowl record book for a variety of reasons. One of the most interesting records is one held by three coaches, Denver Broncos Coach Dan Reaves, Chicago Bears Coach Mike Ditka and Indianapolis Colts Coach Tony Dungy. They are the only three men who have won Super Bowls as a coach, assistant coach and player.
And an exercise in Super Bowl trivia wouldn’t be complete without mention of those of us who do nothing more than watch the game, stuffing our mouths the whole time. According to statistics, five percent of us will watch the game by ourselves. The average Super Bowl party size is 17 people. In one recent year, people took in more than eight million pounds of guacamole as they watched the big game.
Again, it’s just useless information, but it’s part of the Super Bowl fun. This year we have the Pro Bowl before the big game, but it won’t matter. There’s nothing like the countdown to Super Bowl kickoff and the fun it creates. Now there is just over one week left.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Phil does just fine
Typically the greatest golfer in the game makes his debut for the season at Torrey Pines, and if you want to get technical about it this year is no different. As Tiger Woods at least temporarily removed himself from pro golf, Phil MIckelson is , hands down, the best out there and he is making his first appearance this week. Golf fans would be wise to take notice.
Maybe golf can make a statement about ethics in the game with its Tiger in a cage. Maybe the man known for carrying a pager around Pinehurst in 1999 to keep up with the birth of his first child, should be recognized for his family values.
Tiger's escapades sell more papers and are much funnier to late night comedians but Phil's are much more credible. The fact he is not the subject of Jay Leno, Conan O'Brien, who ever else is on NBC is a good thing for his image.
Not to many would argue he is not second to Tiger when it comes to morality. That might have been questionable a year ago but since Thanksgiving night it is laughable
On the course his skills aren't quite up to par with Tiger's but that is the case with everyone else in the world also. There is no shame in second place and Phil is first where it really matters. It would be nice to see him get some credit for it.
In the mean time it is a good chance to him to cement his legacy without anyone wearing red on Sunday afternoons threatening his place in the history books.
Maybe golf can make a statement about ethics in the game with its Tiger in a cage. Maybe the man known for carrying a pager around Pinehurst in 1999 to keep up with the birth of his first child, should be recognized for his family values.
Tiger's escapades sell more papers and are much funnier to late night comedians but Phil's are much more credible. The fact he is not the subject of Jay Leno, Conan O'Brien, who ever else is on NBC is a good thing for his image.
Not to many would argue he is not second to Tiger when it comes to morality. That might have been questionable a year ago but since Thanksgiving night it is laughable
On the course his skills aren't quite up to par with Tiger's but that is the case with everyone else in the world also. There is no shame in second place and Phil is first where it really matters. It would be nice to see him get some credit for it.
In the mean time it is a good chance to him to cement his legacy without anyone wearing red on Sunday afternoons threatening his place in the history books.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Super Bowl memories
It is that time of year again, when we await what is called the greatest football game of the year. Though other sporting events have caught more of my attention I do have special memories of the NFL championship game.
My first memories of the big day involve teams wearing black. I first remember my brother, who didn't even like football, wearing that ugly number 32 jersey of the Pittsburgh Steelers. He likely didn't know it was the number of Franco Harris, his motive was being a thorn in my side.
It worked. I countered with that deep purple number ten jersey of the Minnesota Vikings. Fran Tarkenton never won the big game but he was alway a personal favorite.
I remember crying as a small child when Philadelphia lost to the Raiders in the game. Don't ask me why but I just didn't like those black and silver colors and the players that wore them.
As a college student I used language my mother wouldn't be proud of when I lost some money as Cincinatti lost to the 49ers in the big game. I respected Joe Montana but I didn't have to like him. I am still disappointed when I hear the name Boomer Esiason.
In recent years my love to hate attitude switched to the Patriots. Tom Brady and particularly Bill Belichek continue to get under my skin.
I could make a list a mile long of Super Bowl heroes but a few stick in the mind. Tarkenton was one. The performance of Steve Smith for the Carolina Panthers comes to mind. Who could forget other greats like Bradshaw, Warner, Starr, Rice and others.
The bottom line on the Super Bowl is that it is just that Super. This year won't disappoint but you heard it in The Corner first, Indianpolis 20 New Orleans 10.
My first memories of the big day involve teams wearing black. I first remember my brother, who didn't even like football, wearing that ugly number 32 jersey of the Pittsburgh Steelers. He likely didn't know it was the number of Franco Harris, his motive was being a thorn in my side.
It worked. I countered with that deep purple number ten jersey of the Minnesota Vikings. Fran Tarkenton never won the big game but he was alway a personal favorite.
I remember crying as a small child when Philadelphia lost to the Raiders in the game. Don't ask me why but I just didn't like those black and silver colors and the players that wore them.
As a college student I used language my mother wouldn't be proud of when I lost some money as Cincinatti lost to the 49ers in the big game. I respected Joe Montana but I didn't have to like him. I am still disappointed when I hear the name Boomer Esiason.
In recent years my love to hate attitude switched to the Patriots. Tom Brady and particularly Bill Belichek continue to get under my skin.
I could make a list a mile long of Super Bowl heroes but a few stick in the mind. Tarkenton was one. The performance of Steve Smith for the Carolina Panthers comes to mind. Who could forget other greats like Bradshaw, Warner, Starr, Rice and others.
The bottom line on the Super Bowl is that it is just that Super. This year won't disappoint but you heard it in The Corner first, Indianpolis 20 New Orleans 10.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
There are four teams in the big four
For years my older brother has complained about the treatment of his alma mater in the Triangle area press. His argument has been that N.C. State is not treated equally in the media compared to UNC and Duke. I realized in the past week he is right. Sidney Lowe is making it clear there are four teams in what has always been known as "The Big Four" and the local press need to realize and report on it.
A prime example is that there hasn't been much press about a rare statistic this season. There are only two teams in the ACC without a road win as of Saturday night, and both of them wear blue.
Duke and Carolina may be the higest ranked teams in the area but State is showing signs of improving an image that has been on the downswing in different years.
State fans need to be patient. Lowe is only now playing with all of his own recruits. There are a lot of reasons why that is important.
Highest on that list is that until this year some of the players had a part of them dedicated to Herb Sendek. Coaches begin a relationship during the recruiting effort that is difficult to change when a new coach comes in. The players now on the team have that kind of relationship with Lowe. They are naturally going to play harder for him.
There are already rumblings about Lowe's future in west Raleigh but they will soon be quieted. If not this season, next year the Pack will begin an annual pilgramage to the NCAA tournament. The local media needs to realize that the fourth team in the big four is on the way back up.
A prime example is that there hasn't been much press about a rare statistic this season. There are only two teams in the ACC without a road win as of Saturday night, and both of them wear blue.
Duke and Carolina may be the higest ranked teams in the area but State is showing signs of improving an image that has been on the downswing in different years.
State fans need to be patient. Lowe is only now playing with all of his own recruits. There are a lot of reasons why that is important.
Highest on that list is that until this year some of the players had a part of them dedicated to Herb Sendek. Coaches begin a relationship during the recruiting effort that is difficult to change when a new coach comes in. The players now on the team have that kind of relationship with Lowe. They are naturally going to play harder for him.
There are already rumblings about Lowe's future in west Raleigh but they will soon be quieted. If not this season, next year the Pack will begin an annual pilgramage to the NCAA tournament. The local media needs to realize that the fourth team in the big four is on the way back up.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Favre's loyalties run deep
Laugh of the day, a headline I read that stated “Favre is still a Saint’s fan.”
Favre, from nearby Mississippi, was a fan of the team often called the Aint’s in the 1980s. His Vikings will face off against the Saints, notice the S is back, this weekend so I am not thinking he is a fan, for the moment
The teams of Favre's childhood disappointed a lot of people in the Mississippi delta region but the Saints of 2010 are a different story.
Here’s a prediction, Favre won’t be a Saint’s fan this weekend but he will pull hard for his favorite team once again in the Super Bowl. He has had a great season but his Vikings will run into a New Orleans machine. This time next week Favre will be deciding whether or not he going to retire, again, or, or again or which team he will return to next year.
He is going to become a Saint’s fan once again when he hangs up his jersey for good but for one day this weekend he won't be disappointed if they go back to the Big Easy with their hands hanging.
Favre, from nearby Mississippi, was a fan of the team often called the Aint’s in the 1980s. His Vikings will face off against the Saints, notice the S is back, this weekend so I am not thinking he is a fan, for the moment
The teams of Favre's childhood disappointed a lot of people in the Mississippi delta region but the Saints of 2010 are a different story.
Here’s a prediction, Favre won’t be a Saint’s fan this weekend but he will pull hard for his favorite team once again in the Super Bowl. He has had a great season but his Vikings will run into a New Orleans machine. This time next week Favre will be deciding whether or not he going to retire, again, or, or again or which team he will return to next year.
He is going to become a Saint’s fan once again when he hangs up his jersey for good but for one day this weekend he won't be disappointed if they go back to the Big Easy with their hands hanging.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Hall of Fame difficult this year
Hall of fame choices hard to make
Baseball writers have once again chosen their inductee, in this case it is one player, into the hall of fame and once again their choice is questionable in the minds of some. Andre Dawson was this year’s selection. He is a borderline pick. He is lucky because at least 75 percent of this year’s voters thought his record was good enough to give him a pass to Cooperstown.
Dawson, who starred in right field first with the Montreal Expos and then the Cubs carried a .279 batting average over the course of his career with 1,591 runs batted in and 314 stolen bases.
It may be that last number that pushed the man known as “The Hawk,” through the doors of the hall of fame.
It was that number that separates Dawson from the perennial black ball of sports writers, Dale Murphy. The man we loved to call Murph batted .265 and had 1,266 runs batted in but stole only 161 bases in his career. His 398 home runs should give him serious consideration but he gets only a handful of votes each year.
There is once again a long list of players who joined Murphy on the thanks but no thanks list. Bert Blyleven fell five votes short. Roberto Alomar received the highest amount of votes ever for a player appearing on the ballot for the first time.
Many don’t agree with different votes but one must remember five percent of writers didn’t vote for Babe Ruth his first time on the ballot, seven percent ignored Willie Mays and 13 percent voted against Sandy Koufax.
Those who cast ballots have the right to do so for who ever they want. The ones who turned in blank ballots should have their rights taken away. Sports writers across the country, including this one, would love the opportunity that a group of writers through away.
There were quality names that were overlooked. Some of those they overlooked, in addition to the ones listed above, included Lee Smith, Jack Morris, Mark McGuire and Don Mattingly. Considering the events of this month the third of those four listed should be removed.
Smith would get my vote. He made more of an impact than any other player on the list. He is one of the top two or three closers of all time.
I still say Murphy needs some consideration. He put together his numbers on some of the worst teams in the last 30 years of baseball.
Outside of those two I don’t see hall of fame material. I see great players, just not ones who should have their plaque on that sacred wall.
Hats off to all those who voted, regardless of who they voted for. It is fun to debate the merits of individual players, and disgraceful not to choose anyone.
Baseball writers have once again chosen their inductee, in this case it is one player, into the hall of fame and once again their choice is questionable in the minds of some. Andre Dawson was this year’s selection. He is a borderline pick. He is lucky because at least 75 percent of this year’s voters thought his record was good enough to give him a pass to Cooperstown.
Dawson, who starred in right field first with the Montreal Expos and then the Cubs carried a .279 batting average over the course of his career with 1,591 runs batted in and 314 stolen bases.
It may be that last number that pushed the man known as “The Hawk,” through the doors of the hall of fame.
It was that number that separates Dawson from the perennial black ball of sports writers, Dale Murphy. The man we loved to call Murph batted .265 and had 1,266 runs batted in but stole only 161 bases in his career. His 398 home runs should give him serious consideration but he gets only a handful of votes each year.
There is once again a long list of players who joined Murphy on the thanks but no thanks list. Bert Blyleven fell five votes short. Roberto Alomar received the highest amount of votes ever for a player appearing on the ballot for the first time.
Many don’t agree with different votes but one must remember five percent of writers didn’t vote for Babe Ruth his first time on the ballot, seven percent ignored Willie Mays and 13 percent voted against Sandy Koufax.
Those who cast ballots have the right to do so for who ever they want. The ones who turned in blank ballots should have their rights taken away. Sports writers across the country, including this one, would love the opportunity that a group of writers through away.
There were quality names that were overlooked. Some of those they overlooked, in addition to the ones listed above, included Lee Smith, Jack Morris, Mark McGuire and Don Mattingly. Considering the events of this month the third of those four listed should be removed.
Smith would get my vote. He made more of an impact than any other player on the list. He is one of the top two or three closers of all time.
I still say Murphy needs some consideration. He put together his numbers on some of the worst teams in the last 30 years of baseball.
Outside of those two I don’t see hall of fame material. I see great players, just not ones who should have their plaque on that sacred wall.
Hats off to all those who voted, regardless of who they voted for. It is fun to debate the merits of individual players, and disgraceful not to choose anyone.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Indianapolis wins
The Colts were the pick of the Corner last week to win it all. Vote again to see if opinions have changed after the weekend.
Brett showing age is not a factor
The Old man is still getting it done
OK. I heard a good one yesterday during the Vikings and Cowboys game. Somebody said forty year old Brett Favre is proving 40 is the new 30. Not sure what that means but I am sure of one thing and that is that age doesn’t matter when it comes to NFL quarterbacks this year. The oldest one in the league is also one of the best. One that is about to join him in whatever quarterbacks do in retirement, may well have been the second best
It wasn’t very many years ago, about 20 now, that Jeff Charles, voice of the East Carolina Pirates, proclaimed in a game against Southern Mississippi that Brett Favre had the potential to be one of the great ones. He showed that much talent leading a team that lacked the talent overall to make a statement on the national level.
Soon there after Favre walked the sidelines as a backup for the Atlanta Falcons. That is what players drafted late in the second round usually do. His first year in the league he played in two games. It wasn’t until he went to Green Bay he began a career that included eleven trips to the pro bowl, so far. No one said he is done yet.
Favre isn’t the only “senior citizen” who made an impact this year. Kurt Warner, leader of the Cardinals, is 38. To bad the two couldn’t make it to the Super Bowl. It now looks like Warner, who has the best name in the league, may retire but there is no official word yet.
Bottom line is age is literally in the mind for both of these two and a handful of others. Throughout his career Favre has been pounded by three hundred pound lineman and made every start. Many of those games were in unthinkable conditions of Green Bay winters. His mind got him past many injuries. When it is 20 below there is automatically a certain element of mind over matter to get ready to lead a football team.
It is that same mind that is leading the Minnesota Vikings to the Super Bowl this year. It is also the same one that will bring him back next year, if that is what he wants. One thing for sure is nothing is going to stop him from making his best effort as long as the Vikings stay in the playoff hunt. It should be fun to watch. Here’s to the old man holding up the Lombardi trophy in a few weeks.
Friday, January 15, 2010
To late
By the time yesterday's post got up and running the announcement about Skip Holtz leaving ECU was public. Gods speed and good health.
It is now up to Terry Holland and his staff to bring in a coach who is going to move the program forward based on the foundation that is in place. Going backwards is not an option (remember the Chris Thompson experiment!)
South Florida will now be one of the up and coming programs in the country under Skip's leadership.
It is unfortunate for the Pirates but there is no need to be bitter. No one can be blamed for doing what is best for their family. We may not like it but have no right to place blame on the Holtz family.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Say it Ain't so Skip
Pirates on Skip Watch
There are a lot of East Carolina football fans sitting on pins and needles this week. Once again Coach Skip Holtz is the target of schools with coaching openings. The difference is this time he has expressed interest in a job at South Florida. It appears he may be packing up his moving van.
If Skip was a visitor to The Corner I would get down on bended knees, begging him to stay For the first time in the nearly 20 years I have watched East Carolina gridiron action there is a program in Greenville. Before there were just teams who came together on Saturdays.
It is no wonder Skip draws interest every year. He has built a team that now has national recognition at a school that has difficulty establishing an identity.
He likely realizes his growth potential is limited because East Carolina has never gotten what it has so obviously deserved. When the Atlantic Coast Conference expanded they ignored the most obvious candidate and chose teams requiring long travel trips to Miami and Boston, with a very limited fan base. They ignored a team that would bring thousands of purple and gold clad fans out each time there was a game.
The Pirates have long been the "red headed step child" of college football in North Carolina. That may well be what costs them one of the best coaches in the country. We can only hope the draw of Greenville keeps him around a little longer. Losing him will be a major step back for the Pirate program. It will happen sooner or later, the later the better.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
McGuire used steroids?
Sports quote of the Day. 91 year old pitching legend Bob Feller, " Mark McGuire will not get in the hall of fame in my life time."
Anyone who claims to be a baseball fan should hope not, and not in the life span of anyone else living today. It is bad enough and not surprising, that McGuire used steroids. In the minds of most he, and his former Oakland A's teammate Jose Canseco, and of course the other Bay area Bomber Barry Bonds were the poster children of what McGuire termed the "era of steroids."
What is even worse is the way McGuire came clean, with a speech of more excuses than substance.
McGuire insisted in his remarks that he took steroids for his health, not to hit more home runs. He said he would have still hit the same number of home runs without them.
He is right about one thing, hitting home runs takes a certain amount of natural ability. Most normal men couldn't do it with all the steroids in the world
He is wrong about another, and that has to do with the way he remembers his high school physics lesson.
Stronger arms make bats move faster. A faster moving bat obviously makes the smaller baseball travel further when hit squarely. To even suggest some of his home runs were not due to abnormal strength is absurd.
McGuire said he wished he had never played baseball during the era of the steroid. Fans of the 1980s would agree. We would also agree Nolan Ryan did OK replacing steroids with workouts and sweat.
Dale Murphy was known to hit opposite field home runs, a feat that takes strength. He didn't need injections or pills to do it. The list could go on. Dozens of players played at the same time as McGuire, they were just more concerned with the integrity of the game than getting an illegal edge.
In a statement the day after his admission McGuire said his steroid use was a secret to his wife and his parents. Funny thing, because it wasn't to the rest of the world.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Bowden Shot Pretty Straight
When Florida State football Coach Bobby Bowden retired last week he closed a big door behind him. It is unfortunate he went out the way he did but it may have been the right time. College football will never be the same.
Coach Bowden made the comment that he wished his teams had kicked a few more of them a little straighter along the way. It was his way of lamenting a poor performance this year. His teams kicked them as straight as any in modern history.
He nor anyone else should judge his career based on this last year, or the last five. Coach Bowden’s career is simply best summarized by looking at the numbers.
The most glaring number is the 75 percent of total games coached that were wins. When only including his time at Florida State that number goes up to 77 percent. Bowden won a total of 773 games in his career.
One of the greatest indicators of Bowden’s success may never be officially documented. That is the number of former players who showed up at his last game. They showed they carried the lessons of Florida State with them throughout their lives.
For many the passage of decades has occurred since they wore the burgundy and gold. They still took time to remember their coach. There is no doubt Coach Bowden will go down as one of the greatest coaches, if not the greatest, in the history of the Atlantic Coast Conference. When his team entered the conference they were almost unbeatable. Forecasters spent most of their time predicting who was going to finish in second most years before the latest round of expansions. When Florida State finally lost a conference game it made national sports newscasts.
It became a given that the Seminoles would win the conference until the likes of Virginia Tech, Miami and Boston College found their way into the conference.
Coach Bowden coached one of the best teams I have seen in person, back in the era of Deion Sanders in the 1980s. I actually saw the Seminoles fall behind East Carolina 3-0. For a brief moment there was bedlam in Greenville with the prospect of a momentous upset on the horizon. The 44-3 final score, in favor of Coach Bowden’s squad, took that hope away and kept his reputation in place. I have seen many Florida State games over the years on television and in almost all of those the outcome was never in doubt. When Florida State played under Coach Bowden, fans expected them to win.
Penn State’s Joe Paterno now gets the spotlight of the college football world. Fans now wait to see if and when he is going to hang up his coaches whistle for the last time. He can only hope he is treated better than Bowden was in his final days. Florida State did not give Coach Bowden the respect he deserves. He will always be remembered as one of the greats, regardless of the way he was treated in the school he helped so much.
When Florida State football Coach Bobby Bowden retired last week he closed a big door behind him. It is unfortunate he went out the way he did but it may have been the right time. College football will never be the same.
Coach Bowden made the comment that he wished his teams had kicked a few more of them a little straighter along the way. It was his way of lamenting a poor performance this year. His teams kicked them as straight as any in modern history.
He nor anyone else should judge his career based on this last year, or the last five. Coach Bowden’s career is simply best summarized by looking at the numbers.
The most glaring number is the 75 percent of total games coached that were wins. When only including his time at Florida State that number goes up to 77 percent. Bowden won a total of 773 games in his career.
One of the greatest indicators of Bowden’s success may never be officially documented. That is the number of former players who showed up at his last game. They showed they carried the lessons of Florida State with them throughout their lives.
For many the passage of decades has occurred since they wore the burgundy and gold. They still took time to remember their coach. There is no doubt Coach Bowden will go down as one of the greatest coaches, if not the greatest, in the history of the Atlantic Coast Conference. When his team entered the conference they were almost unbeatable. Forecasters spent most of their time predicting who was going to finish in second most years before the latest round of expansions. When Florida State finally lost a conference game it made national sports newscasts.
It became a given that the Seminoles would win the conference until the likes of Virginia Tech, Miami and Boston College found their way into the conference.
Coach Bowden coached one of the best teams I have seen in person, back in the era of Deion Sanders in the 1980s. I actually saw the Seminoles fall behind East Carolina 3-0. For a brief moment there was bedlam in Greenville with the prospect of a momentous upset on the horizon. The 44-3 final score, in favor of Coach Bowden’s squad, took that hope away and kept his reputation in place. I have seen many Florida State games over the years on television and in almost all of those the outcome was never in doubt. When Florida State played under Coach Bowden, fans expected them to win.
Penn State’s Joe Paterno now gets the spotlight of the college football world. Fans now wait to see if and when he is going to hang up his coaches whistle for the last time. He can only hope he is treated better than Bowden was in his final days. Florida State did not give Coach Bowden the respect he deserves. He will always be remembered as one of the greats, regardless of the way he was treated in the school he helped so much.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Stern does it again
I have to give it to NBA Commissioner David Stern. In dealing with the unbelievable situation of players bringing guns into the locker room he is showing why he is the best leader in sports.
It just adds to a legacy of which he should be very proud. It shows why he has hung around so long in a very difficult job.
When athletes were found with guns in the locker room Stern suspended them indefinitely. Anything else would have been unacceptable. Permanent removal from the game should even be considered.
Once again I am reminded why I watch almost no NBA games. More than any other sports, the overpaid athletes of the NBA seem to let celebrity status get to their heads. The league is more known for the thugs that lace up their shoes each night than their playing skills.
Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, Kareen Abdul Jabaar, Magic Johnson should be disappointed. The league they put on the map is not what it was when they left the game.
Today's stars, mostly Kobe and Shaq, seem more interested in their personal careers than the teams they play for. Jordan, Bird and Johnson played for only one team in their careers. Shaq is now on at least his third. That alone is a statement about the game.
David Stern has a difficult job managing the thugs that seem to arise in the NBA. When guns showed up in the locker room he once again adjusted. He should be commended for his efforts.
It just adds to a legacy of which he should be very proud. It shows why he has hung around so long in a very difficult job.
When athletes were found with guns in the locker room Stern suspended them indefinitely. Anything else would have been unacceptable. Permanent removal from the game should even be considered.
Once again I am reminded why I watch almost no NBA games. More than any other sports, the overpaid athletes of the NBA seem to let celebrity status get to their heads. The league is more known for the thugs that lace up their shoes each night than their playing skills.
Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, Kareen Abdul Jabaar, Magic Johnson should be disappointed. The league they put on the map is not what it was when they left the game.
Today's stars, mostly Kobe and Shaq, seem more interested in their personal careers than the teams they play for. Jordan, Bird and Johnson played for only one team in their careers. Shaq is now on at least his third. That alone is a statement about the game.
David Stern has a difficult job managing the thugs that seem to arise in the NBA. When guns showed up in the locker room he once again adjusted. He should be commended for his efforts.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Should Twitter be banned during sports games
Welcome Tyler Lambert as the first guest writer in The Corner. Tyler is a high school senior, aspiring sports writer, and unashamed Duke Blue Devil fan
Bleep Tweet: Should Twitter Be Banned In Pro Sports During Games?
by Tyler Lambert
The Lakers-Cavs game has two seconds left until halftime: Shaq gets hurt and is escorted off the court while they're down by 20.
Cavalier fans everywhere are upset because their team is down big and Shaq could be out for awhile.
But if you want to know how serious the injury is, don't look to the sideline report or team trainer for an answer; just check out Shaq's latest Tweet:
"Guys, I'm down and out four the rest of this game n maybe longer. Hurt my foot, pain is killing me. Likely sprained my ankle, but could be worse. Oh yeah, you better watch out Bynum, no one messes with the Big Diesel."
As we all know, Twitter is one of the fastest-growing websites on the planet and has become even more popular in the sports world.
Follow your favorite player, check your profile every so often, and see what's going on in that athlete's life. It's too bad, however, that some athletes have abused the privilege of sending feedback out to fans by sending "Tweets" during games.
This selfish action takes away from the game itself, distracting players and giving them less time to prepare for the challenges that lie ahead. Thus, I say that Twitter should be banned during games.
Why?
Because sports are not all about the athletes; they are also about the game itself.
Tell me, would you rather read Kobe Bryant's Twitter feed or watch the final minutes of a Lakers' game?
How about check up on Serena Williams' "Tweets" during a changeover instead of watching the entire match itself?
The answer is simple: "The athletes don't make the sport; the sport makes the athlete."
Would Tiger Woods have ever been successful in golf had he never picked up a golf club? What about Alex Rodriguez—would he be able to hit a home run without ever lifting a baseball bat? Probably not.
What I am trying to say is that each athletes respected sport is sacred—it has history and the athletes have its honor to uphold. If an athlete uses Twitter during a game, do you think that would uphold the standards of that respected sport? I think not.
Could you ever see Michael Jordan "Tweet" during games?
"Haha, I dropped 50 on tha Celtics tonight. Someone needs to teach them boys how two play defense. I'm unstoppable baby, UNSTOPPABLE!"
Don't get me wrong, Twitter is an outstanding site for athletes to interact with fans, express their true feelings, and let their voice be heard outside of the interviews and press conferences.
The time and place, however, are two crucial thoughts to keep in mind when you decide to "tweet."
Twitter is not made for expressing thoughts during games, but after.
Remember that piece of advice and I'm sure you won't be fined by David Stern for using Twitter to criticize the referees during a Mavericks' game (cough-cough—Mark Cuban).
Bleep Tweet: Should Twitter Be Banned In Pro Sports During Games?
by Tyler Lambert
The Lakers-Cavs game has two seconds left until halftime: Shaq gets hurt and is escorted off the court while they're down by 20.
Cavalier fans everywhere are upset because their team is down big and Shaq could be out for awhile.
But if you want to know how serious the injury is, don't look to the sideline report or team trainer for an answer; just check out Shaq's latest Tweet:
"Guys, I'm down and out four the rest of this game n maybe longer. Hurt my foot, pain is killing me. Likely sprained my ankle, but could be worse. Oh yeah, you better watch out Bynum, no one messes with the Big Diesel."
As we all know, Twitter is one of the fastest-growing websites on the planet and has become even more popular in the sports world.
Follow your favorite player, check your profile every so often, and see what's going on in that athlete's life. It's too bad, however, that some athletes have abused the privilege of sending feedback out to fans by sending "Tweets" during games.
This selfish action takes away from the game itself, distracting players and giving them less time to prepare for the challenges that lie ahead. Thus, I say that Twitter should be banned during games.
Why?
Because sports are not all about the athletes; they are also about the game itself.
Tell me, would you rather read Kobe Bryant's Twitter feed or watch the final minutes of a Lakers' game?
How about check up on Serena Williams' "Tweets" during a changeover instead of watching the entire match itself?
The answer is simple: "The athletes don't make the sport; the sport makes the athlete."
Would Tiger Woods have ever been successful in golf had he never picked up a golf club? What about Alex Rodriguez—would he be able to hit a home run without ever lifting a baseball bat? Probably not.
What I am trying to say is that each athletes respected sport is sacred—it has history and the athletes have its honor to uphold. If an athlete uses Twitter during a game, do you think that would uphold the standards of that respected sport? I think not.
Could you ever see Michael Jordan "Tweet" during games?
"Haha, I dropped 50 on tha Celtics tonight. Someone needs to teach them boys how two play defense. I'm unstoppable baby, UNSTOPPABLE!"
Don't get me wrong, Twitter is an outstanding site for athletes to interact with fans, express their true feelings, and let their voice be heard outside of the interviews and press conferences.
The time and place, however, are two crucial thoughts to keep in mind when you decide to "tweet."
Twitter is not made for expressing thoughts during games, but after.
Remember that piece of advice and I'm sure you won't be fined by David Stern for using Twitter to criticize the referees during a Mavericks' game (cough-cough—Mark Cuban).
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
NFL should let coaches coach
Apparently the powers that be in the National Football League don't think they have enough powers. If they did they wouldn't be trying to turn into coaches by influencing decisions made on the field. There is enough for league officials to do without trying to force feed strategy decisions.
League officials want to initiate changes based on the Indianapolis Colts recent decision to bench starters during a regular season that had no impact on their post season. Though perhaps not directly, league officials want to tell head coaches when and how to make decisions about who they put on the playing field and it is just wrong.
The irony is that the Colts were willing to give up their perfect season by putting in their second teamers. The coaching staff realized winning the Super Bowl is a bigger goal than simply taking home one victory.
It was a matter of simple strategy. Peyton Manning and his fellow starters weren't likely to get hurt watching the game from the sidelines. If Manning was dodging 300 pound lineman all day there was a chance he wouldn't be available for the games that really matter. Any of the other players who didn't play are of equal value and would be missed nearly as much if they were injured. A playoff team without its starters will likely not be a playoff team very long.
It is wrong of the league to try to force coaches to play their stars in situations where they might otherwise sit them, trying to save them for when they are really needed.
The cries calling for such league action are likely from those who aren't in the playoff hunt or others who would have benefited from a Colts win. The league needs to let coaches do what is best for their own team, not the rest of the league. It is part of what makes coaching in the NFL so challenging. If more useless regulation is put in place it is only going to make the difficult job of managing professional athletes even harder.
League officials want to initiate changes based on the Indianapolis Colts recent decision to bench starters during a regular season that had no impact on their post season. Though perhaps not directly, league officials want to tell head coaches when and how to make decisions about who they put on the playing field and it is just wrong.
The irony is that the Colts were willing to give up their perfect season by putting in their second teamers. The coaching staff realized winning the Super Bowl is a bigger goal than simply taking home one victory.
It was a matter of simple strategy. Peyton Manning and his fellow starters weren't likely to get hurt watching the game from the sidelines. If Manning was dodging 300 pound lineman all day there was a chance he wouldn't be available for the games that really matter. Any of the other players who didn't play are of equal value and would be missed nearly as much if they were injured. A playoff team without its starters will likely not be a playoff team very long.
It is wrong of the league to try to force coaches to play their stars in situations where they might otherwise sit them, trying to save them for when they are really needed.
The cries calling for such league action are likely from those who aren't in the playoff hunt or others who would have benefited from a Colts win. The league needs to let coaches do what is best for their own team, not the rest of the league. It is part of what makes coaching in the NFL so challenging. If more useless regulation is put in place it is only going to make the difficult job of managing professional athletes even harder.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Miracle finish
Did I just see, what I just saw?
I just watched about three seconds of the North Carolina State and Florida basketball game. That was more than enough. A missed foul shot followed by a 70 foot shot sent the Pack faithful home disappointed and shocked. I have watched a lot of basketball in my day but I don't know if I have ever seen anything quite like that.
N.C. State Coach Sidney Lowe looked like he had seen a ghost as the ball stripped through the net. Seeing that ghost is almost as likely as one of those shots going in. It is a worthwhile venture to look up the end of the game on You Tube or somewhere else.
Today is another example that things are not well in Wolfpack land. The football bowl season has come and gone with no appearance of the Pack. Basketball appears to be another year of being sandwiched between better teams in Durham and Chapel Hill. Another tiresome appearance in the NIT may be on the horizon.
So now we have hockey at Fenway, ECU missing three field goals in a matter of minutes to lose the Liberty Bowl and this miraculous finish, and 2010 is only three days old. Makes you want to get up tommorow to see what is next. This is the best place on the web to get the next headline.
I just watched about three seconds of the North Carolina State and Florida basketball game. That was more than enough. A missed foul shot followed by a 70 foot shot sent the Pack faithful home disappointed and shocked. I have watched a lot of basketball in my day but I don't know if I have ever seen anything quite like that.
N.C. State Coach Sidney Lowe looked like he had seen a ghost as the ball stripped through the net. Seeing that ghost is almost as likely as one of those shots going in. It is a worthwhile venture to look up the end of the game on You Tube or somewhere else.
Today is another example that things are not well in Wolfpack land. The football bowl season has come and gone with no appearance of the Pack. Basketball appears to be another year of being sandwiched between better teams in Durham and Chapel Hill. Another tiresome appearance in the NIT may be on the horizon.
So now we have hockey at Fenway, ECU missing three field goals in a matter of minutes to lose the Liberty Bowl and this miraculous finish, and 2010 is only three days old. Makes you want to get up tommorow to see what is next. This is the best place on the web to get the next headline.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Hockey at Fenway?
If the first day of the new year is an indication what is to come, 2010 will be a great show, and a blogger's paradise. If the 364 days left in the year are anything like the first one, watch out. There is going to be plenty to write about.
A public relations genious in Boston held a hockey game at Fenway yesterday.
Thats right, sports fans, center ice was almost exactly where second base usually is. The words Bruins and Flyers were on the classic manual scoreboard on the Green Monster. There was a whole different view from the bleacher seats. Bobby Orr threw out the first pitch, or puck, or something.
It just seems weird. What is next? Are they going to play football at Wrigley? It has likely happened in the past but it is still odd. Are they going to play baseball in the Superdome? One can only imagine the power alleys in that old building.
Kudos from the Corner for creativity in the world of sports public relations. Ice on the outfield grass was a brilliant way to use one of most of the storied venues in all of history during the off season.
Can't wait to see what day number three brings tomorrow
A public relations genious in Boston held a hockey game at Fenway yesterday.
Thats right, sports fans, center ice was almost exactly where second base usually is. The words Bruins and Flyers were on the classic manual scoreboard on the Green Monster. There was a whole different view from the bleacher seats. Bobby Orr threw out the first pitch, or puck, or something.
It just seems weird. What is next? Are they going to play football at Wrigley? It has likely happened in the past but it is still odd. Are they going to play baseball in the Superdome? One can only imagine the power alleys in that old building.
Kudos from the Corner for creativity in the world of sports public relations. Ice on the outfield grass was a brilliant way to use one of most of the storied venues in all of history during the off season.
Can't wait to see what day number three brings tomorrow
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