The Conclusion to SM 221

"You should really get to know your players. Michael scored in the 98th percentile in protective instincts." -Blind Side

As the semester comes to a close, I look back on all the history of sports this class has taught me. Breaking down various sports and eras was something new to me. There was more to learning about the history of sports than who did what and how the sport was formed. Some chapters became explanations for why a sport or athlete achieved great success or shame. There were reasons for why a sport changed or grew popular. The same could be said for athletes. Overall, it is because of the history of sports that I have chosen to pursue my career in sport management.

Throughout the semester, the class touched on many subjects regarding sports and sports figures. These subjects included the past and present, racial, and political topics. For example, The Miracle On Ice is a political issue even though this was a hockey game played in the Olympics. During this time (1980s), a Cold War was taking place and the USSR had invaded Afghanistan. The USSR was expected to easily win the Gold medal. However, with the help of a miracle, the U.S. hockey team pulled off the greatest upset by beating the Soviets and advancing to the Gold medal game. The U.S. eventually won the Gold medal and reenergized a struggling nation. Personally, the HBO movie about this historical moment is truly motivating. This game was no ordinary hockey game but a political statement.

The one topic I thought could have been talked about more was the commissioners in professional sports. Obviously, these commissioners have been involved with many decision-making processes for their respective leagues. Some decisions have boated well for them, while other decisions have sunken their reputation. Bud Selig’s call during the 2002 All-Star Game was an example of a reputation gone down the drain. Selig eventually called the All-Star Game when it was tied 7-7 after the 11^th inning due to a shortage in pitchers. I feel as though commissioners dictate the outcome of how well their sport does. For instance, lockouts have been a prime subject in sports. I believe how a commissioner recovers from a lockout predicts the future of the sport. The NHL, once thought to be near dead sport for attendance due to its 2004 lockout, has nearly recaptured fans by making rule changes and introducing the annual outdoor hockey game, The Winter Classic.

In addition, I would have like to gone into more discussion on which commissioner people preferred. I know I commented on Brad Frank’s post about David Stern. In my opinion, I feel that all the commissioners need to be removed from their positions. There needs to be fresh blood and new faces in all these sports. A younger commissioner can relate to the younger generations and markets. These new rule changes hurt the way the game was once known for. Football and hockey are prime examples. Both football and hockey have seen rule changes to protect players and take away the physical play.

This class taught me a lot about the true history behind sports. The creation and beginning of certain sports is an incredible story to hear. The way African-Americans and Native Americans created sports that we now play today is simply amazing. I feel the book gave the credit they deserve for attributing to sports. There were many historical events that will not be forgotten. Yes, even the great ESPN helped out with the movie clips the class viewed. To end my conclusion, here is a quote by Vince Lombardi…

“We didn’t lose the game; we just ran out of time.”

Congrations Dan Sexton!

On a personal note, congratulations to Dan Sexton on making his NHL debut in Minnesota for the Anaheim Ducks. Dan also scored his first two NHL goals tonight against the Dallas Stars. Dan played two years at Bowling Green State University. In two seasons with the Falcons, Sexton finished with 24 goals, 36 assists (60 points) and 18 multiple-point games in his collegiate career. He left after his sophomore year when he signed a professional contract with the Anaheim Ducks.

Dan, you have represented Bowling Green State University very well. There could not be a better person to show how the Falcons Hockey program is growing. This is a tremendous story and one to remember. Best of luck to you and a successful career!

http://bgsufalcons.com/news/2009/12/5/HOCKEY_1205093517.aspx

Elin Woods Good With The 3-Iron

"He's on his final hole. He's about 455 yards away, he's gonna hit about a 2 iron I think.." -Caddyshack

And the Tiger Woods saga continues. I wanted to comment on the article relating to the Tiger Woods incident that occurred this past week.(http://www.examiner.com/x-17547-Financial-Fraud-Examiner~y2009m12d3-Tiger-Woods-scandal-and-details-emerging-about-Elin-Woods-prenuptial-agreement). You know in my opinion, here is another athlete that disappointed the world. People thought Alex Rodriguez was going to break Barry Bonds homerun record steroid-free. Well it turns out that Mr. A-Rod is a steroid user. The same can be said about Michael Jordan. Everyone saw his record-breaking numbers with the Bulls; however, did anyone see the gambling issues he had? I also forgot to mention the cheating on his wife, as well. Even The Great One, Wayne Gretzky has problems. I remember hearing his wife was in gambling ring with her husband’s Assistant Coach on the Phoenix Coyotes. Oh, Janet.

The world does not want to see these superstar athletes act this way. Kids growing up look to these role models as a guide to follow. Tiger Woods now is the latest victim to join the bad imaged athletes. The question remains why did he do it? Tiger, don’t you live the life? If I remember correctly aren’t you the first billion-dollar athlete? Some athletes lose so much respect when instances, like Tiger’s, occur.

Overall, Tiger Woods lives the dream any person in the world would love to live. He is married to a Swedish model, who is absolutely gorgeous. The man is sponsored by Nike, Gatorade, Gillette, and many more brand name sponsors. Did I mention he has a yacht? Tiger, you are 33 years old and have two kids. There is no need to be prancing around looking for other young women to fool around with. Whether or not these allegations are true, your image will be forever tarnished outside of golf. As far as your golf play, no one will notice a bit, but you now join the same category as the athletes mentioned above (A-Rod, Gretzky, Bonds, Jordan).

Tiger, you got what you deserved. Next time do not underestimate your own skills, swing a golf club, cause the club finally backfired on you. The one thing that hurts the most is the fact that Tiger will not come out to the public and speak the truth. He is too afraid he will lose sponsorships, in my opinion. What is the worst that can happen, going from a billion dollars to half a billion in total earnings? The world is such a cruel place, Tiger. It’s time to grow up and act like a true role model. Then again, not only are you a role model for young kids and teenagers, but how about being a good role model for your own kids?

LeBron, Kissing Up Or Genuinely Nice Guy?

"In America, we have laws. Laws against killing, laws against stealing. And it is just accepted that as a member of American society, you will live by these laws. In West Canaan, Texas, there is another society which has it's own laws. Football is a way of life." -Varsity Blues

LeBron James may have a heart after all. Recently, James came out to the public about retiring Michael Jordan's number throughout the entire NBA. Jordan, who was recently inducted into the Hall of Fame, has his number 23 retired in Chicago. During his career with the Bulls, Jordan won 6 NBA titles. He retired in 1993 for a brief stint in order to pursue his other career dream playing professional baseball. Jordan briefly switched to No. 45 when he returned to the Chicago Bulls after retiring the first time before going back to No. 23 (2009).

"I just think what Michael Jordan has done for the game has to be recognized some way soon," said James, who has worn 23 since he was a high school sophomore. "There would be no LeBron James, no Kobe Bryant, no Dwyane Wade if there wasn't Michael Jordan first" (2009).

According to ESPN, There are 13 No. 23s in the NBA. Oklahoma City rookie Byron Mullens, who ended up with the number after finding his preferred No. 32 was retired by the organization for Seattle SuperSonics great Fred Brown, is open to a switch.

"I don't have a problem," Mullens said. "I'm a rookie so I don't have no say-so. It's Jordan, man. His number should be retired from the NBA. If it is, then congratulations and good for him. If it's not, then I guess I'll stick to it. I was kidding around with my teammates, though. I told them, 'Jordan's going to have to pay me out' " (2009).

I think this is a great example of the respect around the league for Michael Jordan. The NHL and MLB have done this across their prospective leagues, why not the NBA do it? We have athletes who perform at the high expectations day-in and day-out, why not respect them? Granite, sometimes these athletes are not the best role models, they perform at great levels in their sports. Truth be told, if I am the NBA, I would mind letting the number 23 be the face of the NBA. I mean look how popular his brand has become.

(2009, November 14). Lebron wants all players to surrender 23. Retrieved from http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=4650907

Veteran's Day Tribute

"Just remember, football is 80% mental and 40% physical." - Little Giants

Today, we celebrate Veteran’s Day. This is a day to remember all of our country’s soldiers for all they have done in keeping our freedom alive. Over the past several days I was watching television looking at the commercials or events that will be occurring for Veteran’s Day. On ESPN, certain shows will be shown on military bases throughout the country. ESPN, also, had commercials with star athletes thanking every troop, current or veteran, for helping keep freedom in America. In Chicago, the Blackhawks will be wearing camouflage jerseys in warm ups. Much more will be going on today throughout the sports world to honor our soldiers.

However, the question I have is do people think there is too much public relations going into these Veteran’s Day events? In other words, are these events specially designed for the good image of the organization or do these organizations really appreciate the American soldiers? In ESPN’s case, the commercials have some of America’s top athletes. I wonder how much each athlete was paid for the commercial. Why wouldn’t ESPN make a tribute to all the soldiers with top athletes wishing them thanks for all they do? This network is one of the most popular on television. The tribute is a great public relations move on their part.

In my opinion, what happened to the small, feel good stories the media shared. I feel like those stories represent what Veteran’s Day is about. Pat Tillman remains and always will remain a feel good story about how sometimes there are things more important in the world than sports. Even though Tillman’s death is a very tragic loss, people need to remember him for the good he did for our country. If ESPN wants to thank all of the soldiers, bring out a feel good story that is from the heart. Especially, tell stories of athletes who have had family members in the military. I know my grandpa and uncle, who have given military service, always get a chuckle out of the commercials on Veteran’s Day from athletes. My grandpa wonders how much each athlete gets paid to thank the soldiers.

Now here is my thanks for to all the soldiers…

To all soldiers, current or veteran, thank for all you do to keep our country safe. There is no bigger fan than the American people. You are truly all heroes. Please stay safe and come home soon.

The Big Mac Back in St. Louis?

“Would you rather spread manure, or play hockey in Madison Square Garden in front of 20,000 people?”- Youngblood

Anyone remember back in 1998, the great homerun race between Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa? Who would of thought baseball’s comeback was because of these two great sluggers? Well little would anyone know about 10 years later, steroids would be baseball’s new topic of discussion. As I recall McGwire and Sosa were the topic of a baseball investigation, The Mitchell Report. Both denied taking steroids and McGwire said he did not want to talk about the past but focus on the present. All in all, both were one time first ballot Hall of Famers. Now, they are both lucky if they get into the Hall at all.

Interestingly enough, the Big Mac is back in St. Louis. This time, McGwire will become the hitting coach for the St. Louis Cardinals. Surprisingly move? I would love to hear what Cardinals fans think. Who knows maybe a public relations move to clear up McGwire’s image? Then again, if the whole team starts to smash homeruns, people are going to start thinking steroids. In my opinion, McGwire may actually be a smart, hitting coach for the Cardinals. I am sure there are plenty of St. Louis fans who still appreciate all McGwire did.

Still I wonder what this move does for the St. Louis Cardinals and McGwire. If somehow McGwire proves he was steroid free, is baseball’s legacy changed forever? Think about Pete Rose and his situation. He was banned from baseball because of betting. Why is baseball allowing McGwire back in the game after he refused to talk about “the past?” I understand McGwire was never found guilty of steroids but the man disappeared from the game. Anyone else see that as a sign?

Well best of luck to you, Mark McGwire. I hope you prove baseball wrong. Honestly, since this hiring has occurred, I think it is time baseball looked at Pete Rose.

However, as a Cubs fan, I hope McGwire ruins Albert Pujols’ swing.

Friday Night (No Money to Spend On) Lights

“You know what Coxy let me ask you a question. Why'd you wanna play college hockey? Isn't it obvious? For the girls.” -Miracle

This past Monday, Megan and Morgan talked about sports being cut out from high school budgets. Megan gave an example of her high school near home. Megan was telling the class about how the high school completely cut sports from their budget and effects this decision had on the community. I personally went through this situation and it is not a fun one. The community really becomes too paranoid. My parents were looking into other private schools for me. Then they would fight over whether paying for school was in their budget. Luckily, in my case, I played hockey and Illinois High Schools Association did not support my sport due to insurance reasons. In other words, I did not have to go to a private school. However, there may be teacher and class cuts at my high school. This situation quickly became a mess.

Interestingly enough, there was one solution to stop this problem that my high school district did not consider. Sometime after 2000, Pepsi had come to our school district with an offer. My teacher, who taught my business law class, was telling our class Pepsi Co. wanted to end the Coke line products in our district area. Pepsi was willing to offer around $7 million dollars to the district under certain circumstances. One of the requirements for this deal was each high school within the district had to put in special field turf with Pepsi logos in each endzone. Another requirement was Pepsi Co. products are the only products allowed in the school.

Now I am sure there were other details. According to my teacher, she was saying the district was afraid the community would not like the Pepsi logo around the school. In fact, our vote did pass and taxes were raised around the area. Then again, last year, the high school changed their field to the special field turf even though money was tight. The district simply could have considered the offer and had a couple of Pepsi logos. Plus, the community would not have to raise taxes and elderly people would not have to complain. There would have been enough money for improvement in both sports and education. Our district would have been put on the map, as well.

Maybe its time high school districts should look into sponsorships!

Athletes Deserve the Same Jail Time as Everyone Else

“Hey... Goldberg! I bet if that puck was a cheeseburger, you'd stop it! Hahaha!” –Mighty Ducks 2

First of all, I thought Josh’s presentation was a good topic to talk about with all the upcoming “jail time” events for professional athletes. I, personally, would have added Lance Briggs slamming his $250,000 Lambo into the side of the Edens Expressway in Chicago and leaving the scene in the presentation. Now only if I was smart enough to be driving with someone in Chicago on the Edens at 3:00am, I probably could have had myself a nice car. Then again, I guess that’s how we do it in Chicago. First Lance Briggs and then this summer we had Chicago Blackhawks star, Patrick Kane, punch a cab driver over a near $.20 in change. Come on buddy, did you forget you had to tip him? Kids these days!
Overall I thought Josh made a good point about Donte Stallworth. The man (Stallworth) was drunk and driving. He killed other drunk man walking across the street and was only sentenced to 24 days in jail. Now, how does that work? I mean I completely understand he is under house arrest for the next two years (I believe) but really, that’s all? Anyone else would not be this lucky in their jail sentence. I do believe part of the reasoning is Stallworth’s money and lawyer. However, I do not think the court systems want people to know the more money you have, the better sentencing you will get.
Even Plaxico Burress is another unacceptable case. As matter of fact, I think he is an embarrassment to the NFL. Again I am not biased because I play hockey, but when was the last time you heard of a NHL or MLB player getting into a jail type situation with the exception of the steroid users? The NBA and NFL seem to have countless problems. Maybe the problem for these two leagues is the time in between the next games. NHL and MLB players seem to be always traveling with not a lot of down time during the season. In addition, NHL players, this year, have to play a regular season, playoffs, and compete in the 2010 Vancouver games for the Olympics. The MLB players have 162-game season to play each year.
Still, I do not really believe down time between games in the reason. In my opinion, I do believe everyone deserves a second chance in life. However, when a professional athlete is getting paid millions of dollars and are role models to society, they do not need a second chance because they have millions of reasons not to screw up. If I worked for a high paying job and well-known company and got arrested for shooting myself, do you actually think the company would rehire me after spending two years in jail? I don’t think so. We are all fans of the game and smart people, is it really fair?

Why soccer will not survive in the U.S.?

“You know what Gordie Howe got for a signing bonus? A team jacket!” -Youngblood

In class last Wednesday, Dr. Spencer talked about the popularity of soccer/futbol in Europe compared to the U.S. In Europe, futbol games are jammed packed with fans supporting their team. Futbol games have been known to even cause riots because the fans are so passionate. The U.S. has a different outlook. In the past, the U.S. has tried to establish a soccer league but has failed miserable. The latest league, Major League Soccer, has become a pleasant surprise. However, the league’s new all-star, David Beckham, has not worked out so well. Recently, Beckham has been booed by fans from the L.A. Galaxy. Beckham was signed to a five-year contract. The deal went south when Beckham wanted to be loaned to AC Milan. Beckham’s loan brought displeasure to American fans.

In Europe, the teams have sponsorships that pay a lot of money to be worn by the teams. A lot of money is spent on some of the top futbol players in the World. Their games are on European channels just as much as basketball, baseball, and football in America. For the most part, futbol seems to be played all year long unlike soccer in America. Soccer in America will not survive because a lack of sponsorships and how long the season lasts. The MLS cannot afford to pay the same top dollar that European futbol players are paid.

My solution is when the MLS plays there games, the teams should play in stadiums with a retractable roof. While games are played in summer, the roofs will stay open. Then the season can continue into early fall as the roof can be closed and the field is still in good condition. Major League Baseball has looked into new stadiums having retractable roofs so there are not a lot of make-up games due to bad weather. My other suggestion to this solution is to have primetime games like the NBA has for Christmas and NFL has for Sundays.

The True Meaning of Fighting in Hockey

With the start of the October month, I felt it was necessary to begin a new set of famous movie quotes from hockey movies.

“Did you really Quack at the Principal?

Yeah! Are we Ducks or what?” –The Mighty Ducks

Last week in class, Rei gave a presentation about fighting in hockey. His presentation was very interesting because he talked about how National Hockey League (NHL) players’ fights affect younger children. Rei showed a YouTube clip of an eight year-old hockey fight that occurred during the game. He explained how kids want to fight because their favorite NHL players fight. This issue has lead to many NHL officials trying to cut down on the fighting that takes place during a game. However, I feel there is one problem with that.

Hockey is a physical game. Yet, the fighting still sends the wrong message to kids. In my opinion, kids do not understand the meaning behind fighting. When it comes to fighting, most of the fighting is done because there is need to stick up for a teammate or trying to get your energy back into your team. Shaun Buynack wrote on his blog, “Even though fighting seems cruel, it is needed to keep order on the ice. It helps players from taking cheap shots and liberties towards the opposing players.” I agree completely with Shaun’s statement. Hockey is a fast, intense game where momentum can switch from one team to the other in an instant.

Now, think of this issue with a couple of other issues in mind. Shaun and I both agree fighting is necessary and not as big of an issue as people make it. I believe I would rather see fighting in hockey than steroids in baseball. I would also rather see fighting in hockey than performance-enhancing drugs in baseball and football. The same could be said for basketball players. I would rather witness a hockey fight than NBA players running into the crowd and starting a fight. I think before people get all raddled about fighting in hockey, people need to understand the reasoning behind fighting. I am not saying all this because I play hockey. I truly believe I would watch a fight, which is meant for momentum or sticking up for a teammate, rather than someone cheating in professional sports. When is the last time you heard a hockey player taking steroids or performance-enhancing drugs? Hockey players play the game for their passion and love of the sport.

Do not believe me? Check out this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkr1yHOpoeg

The Rise of America's National Game

“And you know Steve you get the feeling that Billy Chapel isn't pitching against left handers, he isn't pitching against pinch hitters, he isn't pitching against the Yankees. He's pitching against time. He's pitching against the future, against age, and even when you think about his career, against ending. And tonight I think he might be able to use that aching old arm one more time to push the sun back up in the sky and give us one more day of summer.” –Vin Scully For the Love of the Game

Baseball has become “America’s pastime.” I found chapter four to be very interesting. Baseball went from a bat-and-ball game to “base ball” to a “base ball fraternity.” The change this sport has made is incredible. There is deep history in baseball and I am not talking about the Cubs not winning in 101 years. Who would have thought this backyard pick up game would involve into the sport viewed today? The Knickerbockers proved this game had a great pastime. I feel the amazing part of the story behind the game is how the game, itself, was developed. I was sorry to hear gambling and thrown games became apart of baseball. Then again, the Chicago White Sox thrown World Series does not surprise me. The state of New York and local media did a very nice job of spreading the word about baseball. Most of the credit goes to Henry Chadwick. Also, I was very impressed when the chapter talked about an “all-star” game. The overall setup of game made an easy decision to be called “a Native American Sport.”

One of the more exciting stories to read about was the visit to the White House. Sadly, Cincinnati actually had a really good ball club. At the time, President Ulysses S. Grant had the Cincinnati Red Stockings over to the White House to congratulate them. This success quickly got Chicago into the picture. So here is my appreciation, thank you Cincy!

Another part I liked in the chapter was the post-game dinner for the away team. Now there is the classy characteristic baseball is known for. This part really may not excite any readers but who would actually have thought there was a post-game meal? The parties even included live music and sometimes held a local tavern. Now, how come after my hockey games, I never received a team dinner?

Lastly, I leave my blog readers and Chicago Cubs fans with this…

Dear Milton Bradley,

You say the greatest fans in baseball, Cub fans, are racist? Then, how come Derek Lee, who is African-American, has never complained about us? Last time I checked, D-Lee is having a career year for an underachieving team. Milty, stop with the excuses. You are making $10 million a year.

Natives and Mascots Plus Sports in the Revolutionary America

“If I owned the Twins, I wouldn't even show up here. I'd just hire a bunch of scientists to do my homework. I mean, if you're rich you don't have to be smart. That's the whole beauty of this country”- Little Big Leagues

This week’s class was very interesting. The Native American and Mascot issue is more compelling than people really know. The most interesting talk was from Miami University. The SI article was talking about how alumni were willing to give more money to the school if they changed their name, Redskins. The name was changed and Miami is now known as the Redhawks. Soon after the name change, the school received $25 million in donations from the alumni. The other issue is the Washington Redskins. Native Americans do not appreciate the logo and name the Washington football franchise carries. Native Americans feel the term “Redskin” is cruel and hurtful.

My opinion, Native Americans need to back off this issue. Now, I have nothing against Native American’s and their history, which is probably because I know little about them. In history books, its was saving pilgrims and creating a holiday called “Thanksgiving.” Americans took your land and now taking Native American history right out of the books. Wouldn’t Native Americans be happy some history was kept around in America? Look at the Atlanta Braves for example. This team won 14 straight consecutive division titles. The Native Americans should be proud of the team and support the team has. The Chicago Blackhawks have one of the greatest logos in sports. They even made it to the Western Conference Finals. No respect? I think there is plenty of history representation here, Native American complainers.

The other topic is Sports in Revolutionary America. Ledbetter describes the sports participated during the war. Soldiers had to keep in shape and stay conditioned. Swimming was a big part of this conditioning. Other sports were boxing, fives, and nine-pin. Each sport was popular by the soldiers demand.

I have to say the soldiers playing sports during the war is not a bad idea. I wasn’t so sure why Washington restricted it, especially swimming. I thought swimming was good for the body because it worked all the muscles in the body. Then again, there were times soldiers were shot do to swimming. I think I understand why sports became popular in America. I can see the change in sports is being a change away from the British. Well maybe, it was just a thought.

Special thanks to Serena Williams, Roger Federer, Michael Jordan, and Kanye West for their big, glorious moments this past week!

Sports and History-Native Americans and Slaves

“Hey, kid! How'd you like to play for the Chicago Cubs?

Great! But I gotta ask my mom first.”- Rookie of the Year

Last week, we had two online journals about Native Americans and slaves. The Native American journal was about the history behind sport and how Native Americans played sports socially and as a culture. The games played by the natives have evolved into sports still played in the 21^st century. The article mentions how Native Americans have formed all-Native sports. Also, there is a section on Native American athletes who have made it to the professional level, which is something we talked about last week in class.

The other article was about slaves’ entertainment while on their plantations. Usually, slaves had dance parties on Saturday’s as a day to relax and forget about work. Slaves from other plantations would sneak out and go to where the party was located. The article also talks about how slaves went hunting, fishing, boxing, and wrestling. These physical activities help keep them in shape while still being able to have competition amongst others.

After reading each article, I had a question running through my mind about history. How come history books left out detailed information about Native Americans and slaves? Throughout all my history classes, a lesson on Native Americans and/or slaves seems short each time. There is a certain amount of information given and that is it. For example, I learned only about slaves as workers for white slave owners. They made dinner and did chores. For Native Americans, I learned about them through Thanksgiving and how they saved European settlers. However, I recently learned about slaves having Saturday night dance parties. Native Americans playing their own organized sports, which are still played today. I even learned about the famous athletes who have a Native Americans background. To me, that’s the history I want to learn about. These articles are the missing information left out of the history books. I actually feel like I know more about Native American and slaves then I did beforehand.

Introduction

"Hello everybody. Harry Doyle here, welcoming all you Wahoo maniacs to the year's first session of Tribe Talk. As you know, the Indians had a Cinderella season last year. Despite the fact that 'toxic' owner Rachel Phelps wanted the team to lose so she could move it to Florida, the Indians won the American League East for the first time since divisional play began. Rachel's gone now, thank God, having sold the team to retired Indian third baseman Roger Dorn, after a long, hard fought series of negotiations." -Major League II

My name is Nick DeSalvo. I am entering my third year at Bowling Green State University. My major is Sport Management with a minor in Marketing. This year I will be working my practicum through the Division I Men’s Hockey team. I will be working with Head Coach Dennis Williams and his staff throughout the year. Otherwise, I spend time working as the Vice President for the Club Hockey team I play for. Hockey has become a huge part of my life and to be able to continue playing in college has been more than I could ask for. I am also a big fan of baseball. The dream job I would want is to become a sports agent, like Scott Boras or Drew Rosenhaus. Lastly, I am going to admit I do not have any blogging experience. Read my blog for what it is worth and constructive criticism is always welcomed.

Being from the Windy City, I am big supporter of Chicago sports teams. I do, however, tend to favor the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Blackhawks over all the other Chicago teams. In large part, I am a Cubs fan. Yes, I am another depressed Cubs fan, who only prays this team will win the World Series before I leave earth. Now, some Cub fans may ask my opinion to why they have not won. My solution is not to blame Dusty Baker, Steve Bartman, Jim Hendry, or even Lou Pinella. What I am trying to say is look at the Chicago Blackhawks. Now here is franchise once at the top of the city and then hit rock bottom during the Bill Wirtz era. Suddenly a new owner change (Bill’s son, Rocky, took over), the Blackhawks became a franchise with new faces. After hiring former Cubs President, John McDonough, and developing their draft picks, Chicago became a team three wins away from a Stanley Cup appearance. On the other hand, the Cubs continue to pay top dollar for overpriced players when they should develop their prospects and team chemistry. Jim Hendry, a little advice, Milton Bradley is probably not your best offseason pick up. Attention Cub fans, there is a new owner coming after this dreadful year. Mr. Tom Ricketts, I beg you to pay close attention to what Rocky Wirtz and John McDonough have done with the Blackhawks. As an owner, improve Wrigley Field but bring in fresh, new faces. Most all of, Mr. Ricketts develop young prospects and get rid of your overpaid, big babies.

Honestly, the start of the 2009 year has been a life experience I will never forget. In fact, my experience began January 1^st at Wrigley Field in Chicago. From a sports fan’s perspective, one of the most spectacular sights my eyes have laid on is the 2009 NHL Winter Classic. To see an outdoor hockey rink on historic Wrigley Field is something I will never forget. No matter the outcome of the game, any true sports fan would appreciate the atmosphere inside Wrigley Field on a cold, winter morning. The other eye opening experience I had this year was with Chicago Blackhawks President John McDonough. Talk about one of the most respected men in the front office. Mr. McDonough was very straight forward man and yet, a pure genius in the marketing department. I was able to pick his brain apart to understand his thought process in the marketing of sports. The biggest advice I received from him was to be very humble and do everything with “professional class.”

The one historic event I would go back to is the 2003 National League Championship Series between the Florida Marlins and Chicago Cubs. This game is better known for the “Steve Bartman” incident. I want to go back to the whole incident with Moises Alou and Steve Bartman. It’s hard to believe fan interference can cause the chaos, which took place during the inning. The next play was an easy ground ball double-play when the ball went right threw the legs of the shortstop, Alex Gonzalez. A complete mental breakdown for a team poised for success. However, there were a lot of situations that did not take place during the inning. How come Dusty Baker did not go out for a meeting on the mound to calm everyone down? Why was Mark Prior still in the game so late? No matter what situation went wrong that night, the Cubs could have prevented their ugly mess. Then again, maybe there truly is a curse after all.

I look forward to the History and Philosophy of Sport class this semester. Unlike grade school and high school history classes, I know this history class is one I will enjoy and can co-exist with. Learning about the beginning of sport compares to the beginning of America. Again, only in my world would I say that. I found the online readings to be very interesting, especially about how sports were competed for honor and strength. Today, sports can be seen as doing everything possible to win the game. I find it remarkable how there is history behind any historical event in sports. For example, there is history behind the first Super Bowl game. In my opinion, understanding the history of sport is a big role in earning a degree in sport management.

My concern going into this class is keeping up with blog entries. This blog is my first time going public with my opinions. I will have to learn to take constructive criticism from other viewers and not take those comments to heart. Being able to improve on my writing will help throughout this semester. Otherwise, I am very interested in the learning about the history and philosophy of sport.