Why America Loves Phil

As he stormed back into the picture with a final round of 65, Phil Mickelson captured the crown at the Tour Championship on Sunday, and continued to capture the hearts of America. He entered the round four shots out of the lead, and finished three shots ahead of the pack- we all cheered.

What is it about “Lefty” that makes him the constant underdog, though his FedEx ranking suggests otherwise? Maybe it was the string of runner-up finishes that seemed to act as a dark cloud following him from major to major, or the fact that Tiger Woods always seems to have the secret recipe for his defeat.

I believe we all want to root for Mickelson because we all see a little bit of ourselves, our family, and our neighbors in Phil. He seems like the guy next door you could baby-sit for, borrow some milk from, or just chat in the front yard. He doesn’t seem affected by his millions, nor has he basked in the bright lights of fame.

This past year has also added an element of humanity to Phil, as he’s struggled with the breast cancer diagnosis of both his wife and mother. It seems as if we can all relate, as countless individuals are affected by cancer day in and day out—whether you’re a world class golfer or not. We have cheered for Phil on and off the golf course, cheered for Amy, and cheered for the quick recovery of his mother.

What a great win for Phil this Sunday to mark the conclusion of an undeniably roller coaster year. Our hearts are continually sending our words of support and comfort, while our voices are persistently encouraging and rooting for the guy and golfer next door that everyone seems to love—Phil Mickelson.

A New Crib for the Cowboys

If anyone watched the opening game of the Cowboys Stadium, I’m sure you saw the lovely introduction piece to Jerry Jones’s money pit. The segment highlighted the Egyptian Pyramids, Taj Mahal, Roman Coliseum, the Parthenon, and other fascinating historical structures… ending with the unveiling of the new stadium. If you ask me, how grotesquely over the top!

The Egyptian Pyramids date back to before Christ—structures built to honor gods and leaders. The Taj Mahal, an Indian masterpiece honoring the life of an emperor’s wife, dates back to the 1600s. You get the idea… A football stadium honoring the pocket book of Jerry Jones and crazed, delusional Cowboys fans shouldn’t even be muttered in the same sentence as these fascinating, historical relics.

This $1.3 billion dollar monstrosity is completely despicable. Yes, it incorporates incredible opportunities of viewing the players through glass walkways. Yes, it has a 600-ton video board lingering above the field. Yes, it can fit over 100,000, but is this really necessary? Last time I checked, despite all the new technology, structures, and amenities- the Cowboys still lost the game.

Most Americans are struggling right now to pay bills, feed their families, and cover everyday living expenses. Does Jerry Jones really believe these average Americans will blow $159 for a single ticket, $75 for parking, and who knows how much on mediocre stadium snacks to help Jerry Jones pay for the outlandish architecture, video screens, and other outrageous features? I don’t think so.

Sports are about having passion for your team, and wanting them to score the touchdown, kick the field goal, and win the game. You want to love your team, love what they represent, love how they carry themselves and symbolize your community. You don’t just love them for their fat wallets. Sure, the stadium may have ignited attention and awe, but that’s not what the game is all about. Money can buy you pretty, shiny “things” but in the end they’re all worthless if you don’t have the human interest, excitement, class, and winning spirit of the players and fans behind the glitz and glamour.

Give 'em a Break

During last Saturday's UH vs. Texas Tech match-up on ESPN2, I heard an interesting fact about a hand full of the UH football players... The broadcasters were discussing the fact that a few weeks ago when the Cougars traveled to Stillwater, Oklahoma to face the Cowboys it was many of the player's first time on an airplane. They joked about the players being frightened and apprehensive, not about their upcoming game, but merely their method of transportation. WOW- I couldn't believe it, this just amazed me.

With the constant media attention, hype, and pressure placed on college athletes, mostly football players, you forget that these boys range from 18-22 (unless it's BYU, then change that 22 to 25). They're still very young, maturing individuals who are treated like men, with the weight of the hopes and expectations of their team, school, alumni, and community resting on their shoulders. When they may not win every big game, it seems that the world crashes down solely on their heads.

One such player, who clearly felt the pressure, and fell victim to it, was Miami's QB, Jacory Harris. In fact, I almost devoted an entire post to profiling this prolific quarterback impressing the masses, but am sure glad I procrastinated! This sophomore has been so impressive, but I'm afraid the media coverage, exposure, and interviews depicting his winning attitude were a little premature, intimidating, and shook the nerves of young Harris in the Hurricanes beat down by the Virginia Tech Hokies.

I don't mean to sound like Oklahoma State football coach, Mike Gundy, but we should remember these football players are still very young, maturing boys, not men in the NFL. I remember the frightening, looming feelings when I knew a score was close, or understood the importance of a single race, and my sport of swimming didn't have a fraction of the publicity or pressure of football.

I wish the media and public would remember this before blasting hateful messages on websites and in newspapers, or putting the weight of the world on one individual player. Sure, the focus and scrutiny comes with the territory, but we all could use a little dose of understanding and cut them some slack when sometimes these boys, at a formative time in life, may not flawlessly meet all expectations.

Realizing Retirement

Justine Henin recently announced her plans to return to the game of tennis at the age of 27, following a year of “recharging the batteries.” Kim Clijsters left tennis to become a wife and mother, only to return to the game two years later and win the 2009 US Open. Quarterback Brett Favre retired, returned, retired, returned… well- you know the saga. Also, who can forget the roller coaster that was Michael Jordan- two retirements, two returns? Why can’t athletes, like business professionals, just make one retirement decision and stick with it?

Well, I believe I happen to know the answer to this one. For many, sports are to be enjoyed on the couch, sideline, or luxury box. For the lucky, sports are enjoyed on the field, court, ice, pool, or any other arena. For those lucky few, your sport is part of your DNA- it’s in your blood, it's part of who you are, it makes you tick, and you depend on your teammates and the feelings you get from your sport for your very survival.

Sure- sometimes returning to athletic competition after a break from rigorous training shows in lackluster performances, but sometimes talent can mask this time off. Unfortunately, though, sometimes all the talent in the world can help old age or waning ability.

However, sometimes a break is just what an athlete needs; time to get away from the stress of the day to day, a prolonged timeout-if you will. The break often reinvigorates the athlete’s desire, and reminds them what they truly love about the sport itself.

I believe if an athlete needs one more season, a few more tournaments, or whatever it may be to come to terms with being done with their sport- I completely understand. Sometimes age is just a number people use to label an athlete, but they still have the agility and ability to run with the best of them. Brett Favre, anyone? In two weeks he will celebrate his 40th birthday, and through two games this season he’s statistically the third ranked QB in the NFL in completions and yardage… not too shabby, I'd say!

In your opinion, are fickle, indecisive retirements understandable or irritating?

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

Australian Ian Thorpe and Serbian Milorad Cavic… What do these two male swimmers have in common? Just ask Michael Phelps….

Ian Thorpe said Phelps had no shot at the 8 gold medals in Beijing. Cavic claimed he beat Phelps in the 100 fly at the Beijing Olympics and would beat him again at the World Championships in Rome. Notice the words in the previous sentence? They both said these things, but were they right or backed up… no way.

Phelps took these words and channeled them into fuel and fire that turned into gold medals across the board. He used the loose talk; posted the quotes on anything he could, and used them as inspiration for some of the greatest swimming performances of all time at the Olympic and World Championship level. In fact, he should probably send Thorpe and Cavic a thank you note for the little extra boost of motivation.

Tom Brady once said “Well done is always better than well said.” Oops- someone should have told that to University of Tennessee Head Coach, Lane Kiffin. In a press conference Kiffin ignited the Volunteer masses by boasting that he “couldn’t wait to sing [theme song] ‘Rocky Top’ all night long after beating the Florida Gators.” Well, Lane… better luck next time. Word to the wise… if you’re going up against the #1 team in the country in THEIR stadium, I wouldn’t be so bold.

However, there is one case where talking is warranted- when you can back it up. You know who did just that this weekend… the New York Jets. Behind rookie QB, Matt Sanchez, the vastly improved Jets took down the Super Bowl hopeful and legendary New England Patriots. This is a Jets team who had lost eight straight games at home to Tom Brady and company.

The Jets did take part in a lot of pre-game talking... A very risky thing to do. Coach Rex Ryan left pre-recorded voicemails to Jets faithful encouraging the fans to bring the noise on Sunday. Safety Kerry Rhodes stated he wanted to embarrass the Patriots and make them feel bad. A little harsh I do believe, but hey- they proved they were ready for this football game against the Patriots. Their proclamation of not being afraid certainly appeared through their performance, and a very impressive performance it was.

AP Poll Breakdown: Week 3

1. Florida: Garnered a win over Tennessee, but by fewer points than predicted. Definitely an outright #1, anchored by their crowned prince, Tim Tebow.
2. Texas: The Longhorns garnered their revenge against the Red Raiders, but most likely wanted a larger gap between the two scores, but hey- a win is a win.
3. Alabama: 53-7 win over North Texas… Congrats? They will have true tests in the upcoming weeks against Arkansas and Ole Miss.
4. Mississippi: A win against Southeastern Louisiana, another stop on the Rebel’s less than impressive SEC schedule.
5. Penn State
6. California
7. LSU: The first two weekends in October will introduce the Tigers to the meat of their SEC foes.
8. Boise State: If you’ve read my previous post… you know how I feel about this one. Needless to say, I was rooting hard for Fresno State on Friday! With BYU and Utah faltering, Boise is the last BCS buster in the way of the Horned Frogs!
9. Miami (FL): I’m very glad to see the eleven spot jump for the Hurricanes. Thursday night’s game was very impressive, especially infallible and prolific quarterback, Jacory Harris.
10. Oklahoma
11. Virginia Tech: Last second TD miracle saves the Hokies from being a 1-2 team…. At least they will be a 2-2 team after their showdown with Miami next weekend.
12. USC: Despite the warnings of Washington being a “trap game,” Carroll’s crew fell victim to the big victory hangover.
13. Ohio State
14. Cincinnati: A win over the Beavers of Oregon State let the Bearcats leapfrog (no pun intended) my TCU Horned Frogs in the rankings.
15. TCU: I’m still upset we have not jumped up in the rankings. I suppose we need a few more impressive games and opponents under our belts. Hopefully we can stay strong… unlike our other Mountain West counterparts.
16. Oklahoma State
17. Houston: They were idle and jumped four spots- What the heck?
18. Florida State: Unfortunately for their #19 neighbor, the Seminoles meant business in Provo.
19. Brigham Young: Poor, poor BYU… That was heart breaking… They didn’t even know what hit them.
20. Kansas
21. Georgia: Looks like Arkansas may be a lot tougher than advertised, just ask the Bulldogs- they barely survived.
22. North Carolina
23. Michigan: Keep it up, Rich Rod!
24. Washington: I tip my hat to Steve Sarkisian. For a team that went 0-12 last year, a 2-0 start is truly remarkable. QB Jake Locker has also done an amazing job for the Huskies.
25. Nebraska

As you can see, there's never a dull moment in the world of NCAA football. Were there any other games, surprises, defeats, or anything you found to be noteworthy?

Dad for a Day

We all remember what it was like to be a child- to be growing, learning, and developing into the person you are today. It's a carefree, yet formative time in life. Everything exciting, like Christmas morning, seems like it's the best day of your life while a sad, tragic event shakes you to no end. In a way, every little event seems magnified and intensified when you are young because you don't have a large number of experiences to rely on. You're constantly uneasy- looking for guidance, approval, role models, and individuals to lead you along your path.

That being said... there are some things children should not have to endure early in life, and one of them is the loss of a parent. On July 4th of this year Tyler (11) and Trenton (5) McNair lost one of their greatest role models- their father, Steve McNair, to a terrible tragedy.

Now, imagine what young Tyler and Trenton McNair must have felt as they knew the "Dear Dads Breakfast" was quickly approaching at their school. I'm sure they were uncertain, and knew they would be left out and ostracized due the absence of their father. In steps Tennessee Titans QB and long time friend of Steve McNair, Vince Young. Young surprised both Tyler and Trenton at school to act as their guardian for the "Dear Dads Breakfast." FOX Sports noted the reaction of relief and excitement of the McNair boys saying, "They were thrilled... the boys came to school with huge smiles on their faces." Young even brought Titans memorabilia and signed autographs for the children at the school. What a selfless and endearing act of true compassion. I guarantee McNair's sons will never forget that day as long as they both live.

This goes to show the power of a small gesture of empathy. Young even was quoted saying, "Those are my boys. I wouldn't say it was to pay anyone back; it was just out of love. Steve would do it for me. He pretty much did it for me when I was growing up. I have a history with the boys and I want to do anything I can. I am their big brother." Wow- truly touching.

In the loss of a parent it's crucial that children continue having guardians that care and mold them for the future, and it appears they will have those role models. It's so wonderful that the McNair children will continue to have the Titan community surrounding them to instill and ensure love and concern through this awful loss. A great way to add a positive touch to an otherwise very sad story.

The Team that Plays Together Stays Together

Everyone has heard the age old expression “The family that plays together stays together.” Well, I believe the same holds true for a family of athletes—a team. A team that can laugh with each other, relax and have a good time, always creates a more productive, thriving, and successful unit.

This past Saturday, College Game Day did a piece on how USC Head Coach, Pete Carroll, strives to create an atmosphere where his players are friends and enjoy the company of one another on and off the field. After all, within a team of friends, there is bound to be more teamwork, synergy, and a better athletic performance. See for yourself as the usually stoic USC Trojans let loose during a team meeting: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1T2QRpmjRmQ.

That’s the beauty of college athletics rather than professional. Granted, there are scholarships, but there isn’t all the talk of contracts, fame, signing bonuses, and who’s earning what—there’s no mention of money whatsoever—it’s all about the sport and the team. Coaches strive to foster a winning atmosphere by cultivating and creating friendships along the way.

My senior year at TCU, the Horned Frog swimming and diving team took a trip to West Texas to swim against UT-Permian Basin, practice in the fresh water spring at Balmorhea State Park, and camp overnight in the Davis Mountains. That weekend our team grew by leaps and bounds—we laughed for hours around a campfire roasting marshmallows, slept the night all piled next to each other giggling in our tents, and came back to school with stronger friendships with our teammates ready to take on our opponents together.

I wholeheartedly believe that a team who truly cares for one another through genuine friendships will perform at the elite level. When there are bonds of caring for one another you strive to perform at your peak for your teammates, and you desire for them to do the same—there are no limits for what you can do together as a true TEAM.

US Open 2009: A Wild Ride for the Women

The US Open this year could not have played out better if it had been actually scripted for television. There was a teenage firecracker, an emotionally charged threat, and a feel-good, heartwarming ending. It seems like a perfect story, right?

Unfortunately, I’ve found that the story receiving most attention from the tournament is the flared temper of Serena Williams following the calling of a foot fault at the conclusion of her semi-final match. I have heard both sides to this story—while all feel she was out of line, some say that emotion is all part of sport, while others argue her actions were completely unwarranted and unacceptable. Granted, all athletes feel surges of passion while competing, but it’s so important to keep those feelings and emotions in check, and to always exhibit calm composure. She was upset, but the situation could have, and should have been handled with a little more grace. Must we review what happened to Oregon football player LeGarrette Blount merely a week ago? Serena- you’re a role model to young tennis players and young people worldwide- you must lead by example, even if you disagree- disagree with class.

The most noteworthy story, which should be receiving the publicity, is of tournament winner, Kim Clijsters. A wild card, unranked, mother two years removed from the sport. If that’s not inspiring, I don’t know what is. This year’s US Open was only her third tournament back in the sport after returning to the sport haphazardly for an exhibition at Wimbledon. Slowly but surely, with quiet determination, she climbed back to the top. Now a wife and mother, Clijsters was able to maintain perspective, silence her nerves and add to her success by focusing on 18 month old daughter, Jada, rather than reviewing every miniscule detail of the game.

What a wonderful tournament the US Open evolved into this year. Some may shy away from watching the sport of tennis with its usual cast of characters and lack of drama, but those same people, I guarantee, tuned in to the this year’s tournament… and what a wild ride it was.

Weekend Bloopers: Mascots and Band Members

Just when you thought being in the band or a mascot wasn't a threatening job- take a look at these two videos from the weekend of college football! It seems like the luck of these two rubbed off on their football teams, as both ended the day with a loss.

University of Virginia mascot has a tough time wrangling his horse before their loss to the TCU Horned Frogs. Take a look: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DB5apLY3go

During the pregame of the Ohio State vs. USC game, the camera got a little too close to the over zealous band member dotting the "i" on the field. See for yourself: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwGxDBaNSik

Overtime: NFL vs. NCAA

Two games. Two ties at the end of regulation. Two leagues. Two different sets of rules. The Pittsburgh Steelers vs. the Tennessee Titans, and the Wisconsin Badgers vs. the Fresno State Bulldogs. One game won by the flip of a coin. One game won by a team physically triumphing over the other.

In an NFL overtime situation, it seems as if too much rests with the flip of a coin, not with equal opportunity on the field. On Thursday evening the Steelers won the coin toss, granting them first possession, eventually leading them to victory. This type of overtime system is typically called “Sudden Death” but I just don’t buy it. Whoever wins the silly flip of a token ultimately has the upper hand, how ridiculous! Often, a team may kick a distant field goal, and the game is decided. What an anti-climatic ending to what was most likely a thrilling game in regulation.
Yes, whoever scores first, wins- but if the game is a defensive showdown for fifteen minutes, the game could end in a tie. A tie? What an uninspiring, meaningless ending. A tie is the antithesis of sport.

In my opinion, the supreme of the two overtime systems lies with the NCAA. True, collegiate athletics strive to create equal opportunity, but that’s how it should be. Each team lines up at their opponent’s 25 yard line, if one scores first- the other must do so and vice versa until there is a clear cut, triumphant team. Equal chance, just as exciting, more pressure packed for the players, more nerve racking for the fans, and there is always an undisputed winner.

Why is it that the NFL does not use this system? It seems like the obviously superior of the two. The decision is not determined or given advantage from merely the flip of a coin, but by equal opportunity to score. It provides exhilaration, fairness, and always produces a single champion. In your opinion, which league provides the best method to decide a tie at the end of regulation- the NFL or NCAA?

The Best Ever?

Last night the Basketball Hall of Fame opened its doors to some of the most revered names in the sport— David Robinson, John Stockton, Jerry Sloan, and C. Vivian Stringer. However, the most notable name of the night was of legendary inductee, Michael Jordan. Jordan has countless accolades to his name including six NBA championships, five NBA MVP titles, fourteen All-Star appearances, two Olympic gold medals, and many others.

From these statistics it isn’t far fetched to believe that Michael Jordan is the best to have ever played the game. But... in a perfect world, don’t you wish you could see all the greats play against one another? Turn back the clocks and have each individual at the prime of their career to see what they could do against one another. That would be amazing…. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Charles Barkley, Larry Bird, Wilt Chamberlain, Patrick Ewing, Scottie Pippen, Magic Johnson, John Stockton, Karl Malone, David Robinson, Clyde Drexler, Hakeen Olajuwon, and of course—Michael Jordan. I would even love to throw in today’s greats like Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Shaquille O’ Neal, Tim Duncan, Dirk Nowitzki, Jason Kidd, Dwyane Wade, Dwight Howard, Steve Nash, and Chris Paul.

Think of the competition, the games, the scoring, the defense— the whole package— if all the greats were placed on the same playing field and the same point in time. Wow...

If everyone were to be on the same playing field, would Jordan still be proclaimed as the best ever? I’m not so sure…

College Game Day Preview: USC @ Ohio State

The mighty men of Troy from #3 USC will travel to the home of the #8 Buckeyes this Saturday as the centerpiece of College Game Day. While this will be a much publicized and discussed game, I fear it won't live up to its excitement. True, these are two storied football programs, but they merely aren't an even match at this point in time.

The one leg Ohio State has to stand on is quarterback Terrelle Pryor, who will undoubtedly be tested on Saturday. While the Buckeyes do have experience at the QB position, USC must put their faith in true freshman, Matt Barkley. This trip to Columbus will be a huge test for the young starter, but I believe he will keep his composure and prevail. In fact, if Barkley gets a little rattled he has twelve returning starters to back him up.

What's my prediction? If the Buckeyes allowed the Midshipmen of Navy to rack up over 300 yards of offense, imagine what the prolific offense of the Trojans will do. I don't predict a blowout like last year's 35-3, but regardless, the Trojans will end up on top. Neither the fans at the Horseshoe, nor the dot of the "i" will be able to save the lackluster Buckeyes. Pete Carroll, the keeper of the highest winning percentage in college football will trump Jim Tressel and his... vest?

Final verdict: Lee Corso's headgear selection will definitely be in favor of the Trojans.

Final score... USC 31, Ohio State 10.

Boise State: 1 win = BCS talks already?

Last Thursday during the Boise State vs. Oregon game the infamous AFLAC Trivia Question popped onto the screen. The question was, “In the past ten years how many ranked opponents has Boise State faced at home?” Answer: ONE (The Oregon team they were playing that very night). One ranked team at home in ten years? My goodness, show that to a team with the likes of any SEC, Big 12, Big 10, even Pac 10 school and they would find it laughable. Most of their teams must face at least three to four ranked teams per season.

So… why is it that every year Boise State sails through their push-over schedule, and slides right into the BCS picture? I think it’s downright ridiculous. Okay, they played and beat a very poor performing Oregon team, and now everyone automatically places them in talks for a BCS bid? Next up for the Broncos: Miami (Ohio), Fresno State, Bowling Green, UC Davis, Tulsa, Hawaii, San Jose State, Louisiana Tech, Idaho, Utah State, Nevada, then finally, New Mexico State.

Yes, they are a decently solid team, no doubt about that, but let’s see them step up the toughness of their out of conference schedule. Let’s see them play in the Big 10 or even the Mountain West, I guarantee they wouldn’t and couldn’t go 12-0.

What do you think?

Multi-Sport Athletes

As I watched Chad Jones (and his "dreadlocks of doom") play football for the LSU Tigers this weekend, I had a flashback to his stunning performance as a relief pitcher in Game 3 of the College World Series. Then, I saw Trindon Holliday returning kick-offs, and saw a clip of his NCAA winning performance in the 100 meter dash. In fact, many current athletes and those from the past made their mark by competing in multiple sports:

· Hakeem Olajuwon (soccer & basketball)
· John Elway (football & baseball)
· Michael Jordan (basketball & baseball)
· Marion Jones (track and field & basketball)
· Deion Sanders (football & baseball)
· Jared Mitchell, LSU (football & baseball)

I think it is truly remarkable if an athlete possesses so much talent and ability that they can excel in multiple arenas. In fact, it can even help develop and refine skills for their other sport. For example, a football and baseball multi-sport athlete gains strength and quickness from football, while acute mental ability is molded through baseball. Also, competing in two sports with off-setting seasons could keep an athlete in top shape, avoiding the off-season slump.

On the other hand, trying to compete in multiple sports could spread an athlete too thin, foster injury, and create fatigue. Trying to do too much could hurt the body’s development and health, slow the mental prowess, and lead to the end of an athlete’s career.

I believe if an athlete has the ability and talent to compete on several playing fields- more power to them. It's nothing short of amazing, unique, exceptional ability. What do you think… Does multi-sport competition help or hinder the progress and development of an athlete?

Lessons Learned

As I was driving home from Baton Rouge yesterday, ESPN Radio started a segment talking about what college football fans could take from the opening weekend. We all know our brains and eyes were over-used and exhausted from sitting in front of the TV for consecutive hours this weekend, but there’s really nothing better. Here are the lessons I learned from kick off weekend:

1. The Mountain West is indeed a force to be reckoned with. Just ask Okalahoma and Colorado…
2. Win or lose- Don’t taunt your opponent or you will get flat knocked out… and someone’s career will end.
3. Ole Miss did well, but Jevan Sneed wasn’t quite up to par with his hype.
4. Ohio State is once again, VASTLY overrated. They escaped by a thread against a scrappy Navy team.
5. Oklahoma State showed Georgia they mean business this season—a very impressive win.
6. Florida, Texas, and USC blew out their opponents, but let’s wait until they actually play a legitimate one.
7. No one team really looked like a stand out—everyone looked on somewhat the same level. Clear deviations and front-runners will likely develop as the season unfolds.
8. Alabama once again proved to Virginia Tech that they just can’t hang, no matter what they think.
9. LSU has some work to do when they return from their 2,000 mile trek. They won’t get by tough SEC opponents playing the way they did against Washington.

However, the most exciting game of the weekend was last night, as Miami survived a late drive by Florida State- winning 38-34. There was drama, excitement, a plethora of offense and defense- BOTH teams looked very tough. Oklahoma better watch out... they have Miami (at Miami) on October 3rd... I would hate for the Sooners to kick things off, and within the first month have 2 recorded losses...

What lessons did you learn this weekend?

Melanie Oudin: Heart of a Champion

Lance Armstrong once said "I think it's better we downplay our chances. I think we should cherish this role as the underdog, because it's the perfect way to [win] this race." Melanie Oudin knows the role of an underdog, and she obviously understands how to capitalize upon it. The spunky 17 year old from Georgia has now upset #4 Elena Dementieva, #29 Maria Sharapova, and #13 Nadia Petrova to make a mark and pave her way into the quarterfinals of the U.S. Open. (Oh yeah... She's #70) Clearly, being the underdog doesn't seem to face this young competitor. In fact, it just might drive her to do more.

Melanie's success story is one of sheer determination and unshakable confidence. Oudin, who has competed with shoes marked with the word "BELIEVE" has done just that. After today's match Melanie said, "Today, there were no tears because I believed I can do it. Now I know I do belong here. This is what I want to do. I can compete with these girls no matter who I'm playing. I have a chance against anyone." She has showed competitors worldwide that rankings are merely a number, and that if you have the right mind-set and a heart full of poise and self-assurance- you're unstoppable.

Keep up the good work, Melanie. All athletes, and in fact, all humans, could use a little more of the courageous valor you have demonstrated over the past week.

"We talkin' about PRACTICE!"

In the wake of claims against Rich Rodriguez that state he forced an NCAA violating extra hours of practice against his players; it’s been raising eyebrows and raising questions. Speaking from experience, being a collegiate athlete is more than a hobby, more than a sport, it’s your job and responsibility to devote your time, effort, and energy towards being the best you can be for your university. Most of the time, you’re even being paid in the form of scholarship to do so.

While the NCAA rules and regulations do implement a 20-hour practice limit, I’m sure it is treated merely as a suggestion by collegiate coaches nationwide—regardless of sport. In fact, according to the Associated Press, “Football players in major college programs estimated they spent 44.8 hours per week on athletic activities.” These hours could be a combination of mandatory practice hours, voluntary film watching, time in the weight room, or any other type of activity devoted to improving their mental or physical sharpness.

Many collegiate football programs are so highly regarded that they somewhat resemble an NFL style program, with school on top of the athletic load. For instance, take schools such as Florida, Texas, Oklahoma, LSU, and others that generate millions, even billions, in revenue through their football program alone. That is a responsibility, a commitment, and a business—that is a job.

I understand limiting practice hours so students have time for their studies; it is a crucial and valid argument. Limits help ensure passing grades and maintaining healthy bodies and balance. But… these college athletes are adults who have a passion for perfection and victory, and must simultaneously accept responsibility for their studies and their athletics.

To the NCAA- your limits are vastly ignored, but coaches are not taking practice to the extreme. Let each coach determine their own practice schedule and demands, for the performance of their players and their team will be reflective of the time spent.

In your opinion, are these types of practice limitations best kept to developing young adults through high school athletics or should they be more obeyed by collegiate coaches? Does “over-practicing” really even exist at the college level?

For a good laugh (and in case you don't understand my title), watch this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frsId3goYYE

2009: The year of the Horned Frog?

September 12, @ Virginia
September 19, Texas State
September 26, @ Clemson
October 3, SMU
October 10, @ Air Force
October 17, Colorado State
October 24, @ BYU
October 31, UNLV
November 7, @ San Diego State
November 14, Utah
November 21, @ Wyoming
November 28, New Mexico

After an impressive, #7 finish in last year's AP ranking, TCU is thrilled, but still disappointed and hungry for more. What stood between TCU and a BCS berth... Do you remember? Ask any current or former TCU student and they will tell you (all the while moaning, groaning, with a sickening feeling in their stomach) the calamity of missed field goals against Utah in Salt Lake City. As Horned Frogs watched the ball constantly miss the uprights, it was a dagger through the hearts and hopes for a BCS bid.

Nonetheless, TCU is out for blood this year. They are returning from having the #1 defense in the country with a seasoned quarterback in Andy Dalton and an incredibly noteworthy defensive end, Jerry Hughes. In addition, 10 returning starters come back for the Horned Frogs- 6 on offense and 4 on defense. This season comes poised with an uphill battle, with two notably large away games- Virginia and Clemson. Excellent for exposure, but hopefully not too ambitious. Two critical MWC road games will come at Air Force (remember the 2007 game in Colorado Springs?) as well as at BYU. The showdown with the Cougars will prove to be key. However, nothing will be as noteworthy as the November 14 game on TCU's home turf. The Utah game will be an emotional one, with TCU looking for redemption, respect, and revenge.

Coach Patterson recently answered a few questions for me, noting his excitement to kick off the season to see what the Horned Frogs have this year. He's eager coming off the impressive #7 finish, yet understands the road to victory is never an easy one.

To brush up on the 2008 season and get energized for the return of Horned Frog football, check out this video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y8OuXa_xd0Y

GO FROGS!

The Fightin’ Tigers of 2009

September 5, @ Washington
September 12, Vanderbilt
September 19, UL-Lafayette
September 26, @ Mississippi State
October 3, @ Georgia
October 10, Florida
October 24, Auburn
October 31, Tulane
November 7, @ Alabama
November 14, Louisiana Tech
November 21, @ Ole Miss
November 28, Arkansas

If you’re a fan of college football you understand that nothing rivals the intensity, passion, exhilaration, and insanity of an LSU Tiger football fan. Tiger Stadium is somewhat of a mythical venue, something indescribable to those who have been, unimaginable to those who have not. What other stadium besides the famed Death Valley can register on the Richter scale as an actual earthquake following a touchdown? What other stadium can produce a deafening roar, or suffocating silence? Not even attending LSU, I still have those feelings of awe when it comes to their football program- there’s really nothing like it.

Tiger fans hope this year will be a rebound year, coming off a somewhat disappointing season marred by injury, interceptions, and heartbreak. The shining beacon of hope for the Tigers was the 38-3 rout of Georgia Tech in last year’s Chik-fil-A Bowl. The game was led by Jordan Jefferson, and the Tigers will look to him this year to step up and lead the offense. LSU also has Russell Shepard, Trindon Holliday, Charles Scott, Chad Jones, and dozens of other standout, talented boys.

The schedule is once again a tough road, full of stout SEC opponents and many challenging road games including those at Georgia, Alabama, and Ole Miss. They must watch out for a constantly improving Vanderbilt and Mississippi State programs, and take each match up and opponent as a serious threat (does anyone remember the game vs. Troy last year?). October 10 will undeniably be a fierce match up as Death Valley sets the scene for another potentially classic SEC match up.

The 2009 season will be an example of how LSU players respond to controversy and difficult times, but with the leadership, knowledge, and steady guidance of Les Miles, as well as the enthusiasm and steadfast nature of Tiger fans nationwide—this sets up to be a memorable year for the Tiger Nation.

To really feel the excitement for the Tigers season, check out the video below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EnePQm4KgM&feature=related