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?