NespoKnows

Make Baseball Fun Again

2016-05-07T18:59:00.000-07:00

In a time where society is finding it difficult to “Make America Great Again” or “Feel the Bern” I find it easy to drift my thoughts towards the game of baseball. It is early May and baseball season is starting to pick up the pace. Living in Central Indiana gives me the unfortunate gift of being in the Cubs’ “blackout region”, but not having the Cubs as our primary National League team. The rumbling, bumbling, and stumbling Cincinnati Reds hold that distinction. All things considered, I deal with my geographic dilemma by focusing on other teams (thank the good Lord for MLB.tv). The second most talked about team possesses the League’s most popular and arguably most polarizing figure. I’m of course talking about Bryce Harper of the Washington Nationals.

Credit: michaelpiff.com

Harper approaches the game with fiery passion rivaled by few in today’s game. His demonstrative attitude running around the bases after a home run followed by a “helmet hair flip” has drawn the ire of a number of analysts and most notably, former players. In one corner we have Hall of Famer Goose Gossage and in the other stands Harper.

Gossage argues that players like Harper and Joey Bautista have tainted the professionalism of baseball. He claims that players should just play the game for the team and not showboat after a homerun or remain on the field for long postgame celebrations. Simply put, Gossage’s version of baseball is about hard work on the field and handshakes in the locker room after the game. In an interview with The Washington Post, Gossage stated about Harper, “what does this kid know? This kid doesn’t know squat about the game, and has no respect for it.” Strong words from one of baseball’s former greats.

L TO R: GENE J. PUSKAR/AP | JIM MCISAAC/GETTY IMAGES

For as long as Harper has been in the league I have flipped-flopped on what I think about him. At times I side with Gossage and other times I think he’s just a cranky former player who can’t handle change. What I’ve come to realize, is that Gossage and Harper are more alike than different. Both have obvious passions about their sport and are not afraid to express opinions through words and actions. I understand that Gossage might be uncomfortable seeing the change in his industry, but what sport’s league hasn’t seen change over the last 10-20 years. Sure, Gossage is probably right in saying that Harper doesn’t understand how the game was played back in his day, but are Harper’s actions damaging the game? Hardly.

Bryce Harper is the player that many young players try and emulate. He works hard and plays hard. In the 2014 season, Harper was benched after not running hard to first base. Instead of blowing up his head coach or complaining to the media, he accepted the consequences and took the field the next day. The way he plays the game is exciting to watch and it creates a necessary buzz around the game. When was the last time Major League Baseball was actively talked about over NFL training camps or NCAA football practices?

Peter Hapak for ESPN

We are lucky to have a player like Harper in the game today. He draws our attention to the diamond wherever he plays. If you are going to root against Harper, root against him because he hit 3 homers against your team. Don’t fall victim to the falsehood that Gossage is preaching. Harper respects the game and he understands it better than most young players ever will. As long as he continues to work hard and play hard, I will support Bryce Harper’s campaign to Make Baseball Fun Again!

#Harper2016

My Friday Five: November 13, 2015

2015-11-13T18:10:00.001-08:00

**As I was writing this post the news in Paris came across my screen. I struggled to finish this post. I was about halfway through the 4th point in my blog and found myself at a loss for words. The tragedy in Paris forces us to think twice about the way we live our lives. Take a moment to realize the world we are living in. It is an imperfect society. Terrorism is not linked to color of skin, homeland or religious creed. Terror impacts everyone. Just as 9/11 impacted everyone, this too will change the world we live in. Pray for the people in Paris. Pray for the innocent people who will be wrongly accused of causing this tragedy. Pray for our world.**

Wellllll, after a long hiatus from the blogging world I have decided to dip my toes back into the crazy sphere of inter-web blogs. Now that I've officially announced my return I want to introduce My Friday Five. This weekly posting will highlight the five biggest/attention-grabbing topics in my humble and unbiased (probably not) opinion.

This week has introduced the next edition of the crazy thing we call the College Football Playoff Rankings, the talking head of Jerry Jones, the Missouri football team expressing how powerful college athletes can be and another slew of MLB Awards being handed out.

1. The College Football Playoff Rankings have been announced for the second week with no shortage of outrage and confusion stemming from the committee's decisions. Clemson, Alabama, Ohio State and Notre Dame are NOT the best 4 teams in college football. How the committee makes decisions on the rankings?? I have no idea... Alabama, ranked 4th last week, beat #2 LSU by 14 points, but the game was never that close. Should we view this as a significant victory? Maybe... LSU and the "Mad Hatter" Les Miles came in with a game plan that was centered on god's gift to Baton Rouge, Leonard Fournette.

(Photo: AP)

After the first half and maybe the first quarter I think everyone watching the game knew that the running game wasn't working against the tanks on the Bama defensive front. LSU stuck with the plan of running into the brick wall and thus exposed its greatest weakness (and a weakness of the SEC in general), Brandon Harris needs a running game in order to succeed. Generally speaking, QB play in the SEC is down from what it has been in the past so it will be interesting to see how Alabama holds up against Mississippi State's Dak Prescott, arguably the best QB in the SEC.

2. I'm fine with Clemson at #1 they've faced all of their tests and come out on top. Ohio State can stay in the top 4. An undefeated defending champion deserves the benefit of the doubt until they lose. As for my Irish. I will be the first person to tell you that they should not be in the top 4. The committee has backed themselves into a corner. How can you put ND in the top 4 and make a case to remove them later in the season if the Irish win out? If ND wins out and somehow drops out of the playoff, Irish nation will be crawling from the woodwork to go burn down the committee. We will never hear the end of it, and I for one, do not want to listen to people complain for the rest of the year. At this point my top 4 would be Clemson, Alabama, Ohio State, Oklahoma State. Teams vying for spots 5 and 6 would be Notre Dame, Baylor and Iowa... at this point flip a coin. Hopefully this all works out, but I'm gathering my nonperishable foods in preparation for the football apocalypse.

3. In today's edition of "Jerry World" the man, the myth, the legend, Jerry Jones, has once again awed the sporting world calling Greg Hardy a team leader. My problem with this situation is not with what he said, it is about what he didn't say. When Hardy's name came up as a potential signee for the Cowboys, Jones should have simply said NO. After being initially critical of Roger Goodell for his handling of early domestic violence situations, I will applaud him for trying to suspend Hardy for 10 games this season. All factions in society should take the issue of domestic violence seriously, especially in the nationalized and globalized lens of the NFL. It is a sad situation for all parties involved and an unfortunate society in which we live, where people who have athletic talent are rewarded and "forgiven" for shortcomings and faults.

(Photo: espn.com)

4. Speaking in just the realm of college athletics, what the Missouri football team accomplished truly exhibits the power of athletes. Before the Mizzou team expressed support for the protests taking place on campus the events of racists tendencies were only recognized by a small portion of the population. After head coach Gary Pinkel took to social media to share his support of his African-American players, channels like ESPN, FoxSports, and NBCSN drew their attention to the ongoing protests. College athletes have power, they always have. When they threaten to boycott a football game and cost the university millions people will listen. Should people listen without a boycott?? Of course. Racism of any kind needs to be eradicated and discussion and understand is the first step towards a solution. I applaud coach Pinkel and more importantly, I applaud the African-American players who took a stand against the silenced oppression.

(Photo: mlb.com)

5. Major League Baseball handed out its Gold Glove winners for the 2015 season and as always, I had to scratch my head and ask why. I must admit that there were fewer surprises for me than I have seen in the past. This points to a better process in handing out the award and I believe this is largely due to the increase in analytics used by teams and reporters. That being said, I still wonder why Yadier Molina won his 8th Gold Glove. Yes, I know Yadi is the equivalent of a catching god. Yes, I know Yadi has arguably been the most important Cardinal over the last 10 seasons. And yes, I know Yadi has been the best defensive catcher in the MLB over the last decade. I just think Buster Posey had a better overall year on the defensive end of things. Posey had better analytical numbers in steal prevention, blocking pitches, bunt defense, etc. (you can look it up). I admit it is difficult to not give Yadi an edge based on longevity and historical reputation, but this year, I think Buster got snubbed. My second issue is with the way OF is judged. Why can't we just group all the roaming-ball-catchers in one collective group?? How can you not give a Gold Glove to Kevin Kiermaier (did win), Kevin Pillar and Mike Trout?? All deserving candidates who dazzled defensively in center field. I understand why we have voting by position in the outfield because each position is different. I just wish we could have Oprah hand out the awards... You get a Gold Glove and you get a Gold Glove! EVERYONE GETS A GOLD GLOVE!!!

Derek Jeter Shines Beyond the Stats

2014-09-25T13:48:00.000-07:00

(Jeff Curry, USA Today Sports)

Five World Series Rings. 14-Time All-Star. Five Gold Gloves. The Captain.

Although Derek Jeter might not sit atop the statistical categories that are used to determine “all-time greats” he cannot be judged statistically. Fans will not remember his sub par WAR or his lack of range defensively. They will remember his charisma, his love of the game and his ability to play 20 seasons for a team in the heart of the media spotlight and never have a scandal associated with his name.

People can criticize his farewell tour as being overblown and unnecessary. Keith Olbermann can destroy Jeter’s statistical standing in the history books and place him on the outside of the top-10 greatest Yankees of all-time. We can sit and complain about the #2 patch on the Yankees’ hats and jerseys. But the fact is that Jeter does not thrive off the attention. If he could, I’m sure he would prefer just to step away from the game quietly when the final out is made in Fenway Park, September 28th.

It is the public who is requiring Jeter to go through this myriad of celebratory days, patches and parting gifts. We as fans, deserve this tour. We deserve the opportunity to look towards home plate and cheer for Jeter as he enters the box. We deserve the chance to say thank you to The Captain.

For 20 seasons Jeter showed up the ballpark and played the game the right way. He embodies what we all hope future baseball generations will bring. Work hard every day, be the best teammate, play the game with respect. When Jeter plays his final game he will be remembered for those things.

Kids will reenact the iconic “Jeter Jump” throw from deep in the hole at short. Fans will remember "The Flip" to the plate in the 7th inning in Game 3 of the 2001 American League Division Series. We will remember "The Dive" into the stands against Boston in 2004. We will remember his 3,000th hit as it left Yankee Stadium (and the fan giving the ball back to Jeter).

Jeter was not a statistical marvel who should be looked up to for his insane batting average or on-base percentage. He was an icon of the game. He was Mr. Clutch. He was The Captain. And he will always be Number 2 Derek Jeter, Number 2.

Sue Enquist: The Core of a Champion

2013-04-05T18:37:00.002-07:00

By Jordan Niespodziany

(Originally posted on TigerRag)

Photo courtesy of sueenquist.com

Sue Enquist was not always a champion. She was not the biggest, smartest, or strongest person in the room. Reflecting back on her youth she remembers struggling academically and having to read from the “special books.” Although she had a rough start, her determination and ability to learn allowed her to achieve success later in life. On Wednesday night Enquist took the stage in Kresge Auditorium and shared her powerful message with DePauw athletes and coaches.

Enquist, a California native, attended UCLA where she played softball and led the team to its first National Championship in 1978. She was UCLA’s first softball All-American and later went on to coach the Bruins where her success continued, winning 10 NCAA Championships while on staff. In 2006, she was inducted into the National Fastpitch Coaches Association Hall of Fame with a combined 1,314 wins as a player and coach. However, to Enquist, those are just numbers and numbers do not measure success.

“Don’t get caught up in the numbers of wins and losses. Let your coaches worry about that,” says Enquist. “Be your best. You are the one who knows if you are cutting corners. You are the one who has to answer to what you see in the mirror.”

Enquist compiled an overall record of
887-175-1 as the Bruin's head coach
Photo courtesy of espn.com

Enquist was privileged to have a close relationship with one of the greatest teachers of all-time, UCLA men’s basketball coaching legend, John Wooden. Wooden served as Enquist’s greatest mentor during her coaching career. She used Wooden’s pyramid of success to frame her philosophy at UCLA. The title of her talk, “Competitive Greatness,” is at the top of the pyramid. Enquist stressed that the ability to cope with struggling is a key aspect to being great.

Additionally, Enquist focused on two particular blocks of Wooden’s pyramid: industriousness and enthusiasm. She expressed the importance of being industrious in daily activities and not cutting corners. Social, academic, and athletic challenges face DePauw students almost every day. Enquist encouraged the audience to focus on getting 1% better everyday and to be disciplined in their work habits. Additionally, she believes that enthusiasm is the fuel for discipline. A good attitude encourages an enthusiastic approach that will lead to the 1% improvement.

“Each one of you has a brand that defines you. When you leave DePauw the general public will test you,” says Enquist. “I hope that I can help you crystallize your brand in every aspect of your life. With a crystallized brand, you are ready to take on the world outside of DePauw.”

Enquist with her longtime friend
and mentor, John Wooden
Photo courtesy of speakersource.com

Enquist focused a portion of her talk on what it means to be a champion and how every team can get there. She introduced her idea of CORE, which stands for compete, organize, recovery, and enthusiasm. For each element of CORE, Enquist cited a significant influence in her life. The idea of CORE can be applied to every aspect of daily life and if acted upon correctly, anyone can take the proper steps to being their own champion.

In addition to CORE, Enquist focused on the 33% Rule. This rule establishes three separate groups into which teammates, or people in general, can be placed. “You have those people in the top third who are the best of the best. Then you have the middle third, what I call the windsocks. They just go with the flow. Lastly, there is the bottom third, the people who suck the life out of you,” says Enquist. “If you are in the top third, you need to protect your excellence and rise above the other thirds.”

Enquist cited preparedness as one of the main factors that separates champions from the rest. She used the DePauw women’s basketball team as a model champion. The team was able to push through difficult situations and battle through any adversity that arose. They accepted any fear and failure that presented itself and did not let it become a burden. Enquist noted how champions have a superior ability to be great in “plan B.”

“Fear and failure are part of the ride, you just have to accept it,” says Enquist. “An unchecked ego will bury you. You need to be comfortable being uncomfortable. Show the game why you are great.”

Wooden's "Pyramid of Success"
Photo courtesy of CoachJohnWooden.com

In closing, Enquist talked about leaving behind a legacy. As student athletes, the potential to impact individuals is present in all areas. Opportunities arise in the classroom, on the field, and in social settings on the weekend. In these moments, the way that people carry themselves speaks volumes towards the legacy they are leaving behind. In comments directed to team leaders, Enquist reaffirmed the importance of being a role model for the younger players.

“If you are a leader sometimes and a follower others, you are not a leader at all,” Enquist says. “Leaders are leading all the time. Whether it is on the field, in the classroom, or Friday night at a party. The way you carry yourself should never change.”

While Enquist’s talk was primarily for DePauw student athletes, her message reigns true across the board. Every individual has opportunities to lead and to be great. Excellence is a lifestyle. We only get to live in the DePauw bubble for a short time. While you are here, challenge yourself to be great each and every day. If you prepare, love, and honor the game of life, you will truly have the core of a champion.

Basketball Diplomacy

2013-03-12T08:35:00.000-07:00

By Jordan Niespodziany

(Originally posted on TigerRag)

Former NBA star, Dennis Rodman, recently visited North Korean supreme leader, Kim Jong-un, as part of a weeklong trip to film a TV documentary. While the Obama administration chose to distance itself from the visit claiming it was simply sports, a report from the U.S. State Department has been critical of the visit. The report said that the North Korean government should allocate their funds to their starving nation and not towards celebrity visitors. During his visit, Rodman attended a basketball game with Kim and enjoyed a night filled with fine dining and plenty of drinks.

Following his trip, ABC’s George Stephanopoulos interviewed Rodman. He considered the trip a success and described the supreme leader as an “awesome guy” and a “great leader.” Stephanopoulos asked Rodman why he did not address North Korea’s terrible human rights record or discuss the supreme leader’s hatred of the United States. Rodman simply stated that his time with the North Korean leader was spent enjoying sports and avoiding political issues. Additionally, he told the leader “You have a friend for life.”

When I first read Rodman’s comments calling Kim a “great leader” I will admit that I was surprised. North Korea’s poor human rights record is not a secret to anyone. Human Rights Watch, an international non-governmental organization dedicated to protecting human rights, has described the government as one of the most repressive offering no freedom of the press or religion as well as controlling all political or social opposition. For obvious reasons, Rodman was condemned for holding such high regard for the supreme leader. U.S. State Department spokesman, Patrick Ventrell criticized the visit saying, “Clearly, you’ve got the regime spending money to wine and dine foreign visitors, when they should be feeding their own people.” Although Ventrell brings up a fair point, I wonder if his comments would be the same if President Obama had been the one visiting.

International diplomacy has to start somewhere and if that means using basketball as a vehicle for conversation then I am all for it. Sports offer people of all types an opportunity to come together and share a common interest. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of television and radio shows dedicated to discussing sports. The meeting between North Korean supreme leader, Kim Jong-un, and Rodman was simply that. Two men sat down to watch a game they both shared an interest in.

Although Rodman’s bad boy image has caused the public to write him off as a “weirdo,” his interactions with Kim Jong-un should serve as an example for others to follow. If Rodman was able to have such a meaningful experience with Kim while observing a basketball game, why cant other influential figures, political or not, use sports as a means of developing friendly foreign relations?

The unstable political climate of North Korea is a cause of concern for the United States. They have announced their intentions to actively pursue nuclear development with the intent to target the U.S. In times of hostility, a motion for diplomacy must be made. The eccentric Rodman might have done the U.S. a favor by visiting with Kim. Maybe, just maybe, U.S. officials should consider lacing up their sneakers and follow in his footsteps.

You can view Rodman’s interview here.

LeBron James, Undeniably Great

2013-02-17T20:38:00.002-08:00

What LeBron James has been able to do the last 7 games is undeniably incredible. Scoring 30+ points and shooting 69% (80-116) from the floor during the stretch. He is having one of the best single season performances I have ever seen. One of the most amazing things about his current stretch is that he has managed to score 30+ points while Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh are also scoring 20 or more points. James is making the most of his opportunities and is the leading candidate for MVP.

With great success comes great comparison and in this case, James has big shoes to fill; Air Jordan’s to be exact. We call him King James, The Akron Hammer and The L-Train. Why do sports fans feel the need to call him the next MJ? Better yet, why even try?

Why is every up and coming basketball player on any level immediately deemed "The Next Jordan"? We need to move past the notion that there will be another MJ. What Michael Jordan accomplished for the game of basketball will never be matched by another player for as long as the game exists. He was not only responsible for creating the current sports marketing landscape that NBA players currently thrive in, but he also inspired generations to "Be Like Mike". If there was no MJ there might not have been a Kobe or an LJ.

So when I think about LeBron James I don't think about MJ, I think about LJ. James will leave his own legacy. He is in his prime and pending a serious injury he will take his place among the NBA greats. James has been the most scrutinized player in the NBA. Through it all he has managed to win 3 MVP's, make 9 straight All-Star games, and win an NBA Championship. I can almost promise you his trophy case will need to grow before his time is up.

When Kobe Bryant retires we are going to remember him as The Black Mamba, one of the greatest ever. When Tim Duncan retires we will remember him as one of the best big men to ever grace the hardwood. I only hope that when James retires we will remember him as LJ and not the MJ who never was. Great athletes deserve a chance to create and leave their own legacy. Jordan had to follow Bird and Magic, but nobody ever called him the next Bird or Magic. He was allowed to leave his own mark on the game. James said it best himself on Twitter.

I'm not MJ, I'm LJ
— LeBron James (@KingJames) February 13, 2013

On the 50th birthday of the greatest player ever I hope that we realize how truly great MJ was. It isn't fair to hold every great player after Jordan to the same standard. Every great player has left an impact on the NBA. Each generation latched on to the stars of their time and will remember how the game changed under their lead. I will be the first person to tell you that I cannot stand James, but emotional biases aside, there is no better player in the game today.

Lance Will Always Livestrong

2012-10-25T16:54:00.000-07:00

Cheater. Liar. Doper. Hero?

Lance Armstrong will go down as one of the greatest athletes to ever be knocked off the mountain. His ride from deathbed to "champion" was marked and marred by yellow jackets, court cases and drug tests. Armstrong became a household name in no time at all. His 7 consecutive Tour de France titles ranked among the top individual achievements in the sporting world.

Recent decisions made by USADA and the UCI have cemented Armstrong's place in cycling infamy. With the removal of his 7 tour victories and his lifetime ban, he now ranks #1 on a new list. Armstrong is now the most famous name to grace the doping circus that is professional cycling. He cheated and won in a sport full of cheaters. Granted this may speak to just how sophisticated of an operation he was running, but when it comes down to it the facts are simple. Lance Armstrong cheated better than his competitors and his continued successes both on and off the bike created animosity between his fellow riders. Jealousy was the motivating factor leading to Armstrong's downfall. Almost every individual who testified against him had been caught doing the exact same thing.

Imagine what it feels like when you cheat to win and still get beat... There was only one man who was able to successfully "CheatStrong", Lance Armstrong.

Although he and his lawyer have maintained his innocence, the governing bodies have sided against him, but why is this career implosion taking place now and at what cost? Armstrong has been the focus of numerous doping investigations all ending the same way. He was able to maintain his innocence. However, after beating the system for over 10 years Armstrong's "luck" ran out. It appeared as though the stars aligned against him and the powers at be felt strong enough to obliterate him from the face of cycling and multiple sponsorships.

He is no longer the 7-time champion of the Tour de France; he just happens to be the one who crossed the line first. He is no longer the face of Livestrong; he is just the reason that over $400 million has been raised for cancer research. The majority of society will remember him as that one guy who cheated. His contributions will be overlooked by his shortcomings.

I urge you to look at Lance Armstrong the man and not the cyclist. What has he given to society? There are people living today who had little to no intention of supporting cancer research, but Armstrong provided the nation and the world an outlet to support a humanitarian cause.

Regardless of his past transgressions, the Lance Armstrong I will remember is the one off the bike who wore civilian clothing. I am not going to say what he did was acceptable, but I'm not going to forget everything he did outside of cycling.

Armstrong was a hero for millions and regardless of what society pins him as, in my book he will always Livestrong...

The Meltdown at Medinah

2012-10-01T12:42:00.001-07:00

Let me give you a scenario.

You are the American Ryder Cup captain. It is Saturday night, end of day 2. You lead the European team 10-6 and Tiger Woods and his playing partner Steve Stricker have gone 0-3. Most of you would probably think I'm crazy and say it's impossible.

For Davis Love III this was a reality.

Entering Sunday leading by 4 the majority of American sports fans and analysts, myself included, thought the US had all but won the Ryder Cup. Only one time in the history of the Ryder Cup has a side came back from a 4-point deficit.

Maybe the American side should have seen this coming. European captain Jose Maria Olazabal was playing for the Euros when the American side erased a 4-point deficit in the 1999 Ryder Cup. Even more significant, it was Olazabal who had to watch his opponent, Justin Leonard, sink a 45-foot putt on the 17th hole putting the Americans on the edge of victory. Olazabal was then forced to wait through a premature celebration by the US team, refocus, and try to sink a putt to halve the hole. As we know, he missed the putt, securing victory for the US.

Saturday night you know that the European team was reminded of the 1999 cup. They knew it could be done. Olazabal prepared his team to make a comeback for the ages, and come back they did.

Now the blame game will be played and analysts will argue about what went wrong. As captain, Davis Love III will face the brunt of the criticism targeting his poor captain's picks too his decision to sit Keegan Bradley and Phil Mickelson in the Saturday afternoon matches. But there is one thing that should not be overlooked. What were the American boys up against? No, I'm not talking about Rory McIlroy, Luke Donald or Lee Westwood, all who have been ranked #1 post-Tiger. I'm talking about the heart and soul of the European team, Ian Poulter.

My one lasting image from the 2012 Ryder Cup will not be Jim Furyk's look of disgust as he missed his putt on 18, but rather, it will be the face of Ian Poulter after sinking his putt on 18 to close Saturday's action. Poulter lives for the Ryder Cup. He has gone 8-3-0 in his 3 Ryder Cups and in 2012 embodied the European spirit. He was the 'X-Factor' pulling the Euros from the jaws of defeat. When trying to find an American equivalent nobody comes close. Sure Keegan Bradley was fired up and played some of the best golf this weekend, but he is only a rookie. He had no prior experience of losing the cup. Poulter did.

Ian Poulter's passion and perseverance carried the Europeans into the winner’s circle. He has never been ranked #1, never won a major and has only 6 top 10 finishes in majors. But this weekend, none of that mattered. For Poulter, the Ryder Cup is bigger than a major or a top 10 finish. The Ryder Cup gave him an opportunity to represent his country on the highest level and he didn't disappoint.

The Sunday evening celebration was marked with chants of "Ole, ole, ole!" and the waving of European flags. However, it could have been celebrated with chants of "USA, USA, USA" and the joyous return of the cup to America.

The 2012 American Ryder Cup Team had its fair share of 'Bubba Golf' and 'Woods' Woes'.

If only Team USA had one Ian Poulter...

The Most Relevant, Irrelevance

2012-09-23T13:03:00.000-07:00

January 2, 1989
Sunkist Fiesta Bowl, National Championship Game
Notre Dame 34 West Virginia 21

It was so long ago that most people who attend the University of Notre Dame weren't even born the last time the Irish stood atop the college football world. Since Dr. Lou, 6 different coaches (Yea I counted George O'Leary and Kent Baer) have called South Bend home. There has been an onslaught of criticism about the relevance of Notre Dame when it comes to college football powerhouses. I'll be the first person to admit that going to the Hawaii Bowl sounds more like a vacation than a postseason honor.

There have been blowouts, letdowns, "Bush Pushes" and Clausen punches, but through all the disappointments and controversies relevance has never left. How many schools have a national television station knocking on their door every home game? How many schools can control their own destiny and remain football independent through the current conference realignment?

Every time Notre Dame gets off to a promising start the questions about, are they back or is this the 'Return to Glory' start peppering the sporting news world. These questions are coupled with the constant stream of analysts who say that ND is no longer relevant. If ND isn't relevant, why do these questions persist year after year?

As long as Notre Dame has a TV contract, they will be relevant. As long as Notre Dame's athletic director is allowed to sit on the BCS committee, they will be relevant. As long as Notre Dame can put a football team on the field every Saturday, they will be relevant. Regardless of what analysts say, as long as they keep complaining about Notre Dame, they will be relevant.

Expectations can be high, often too high, coaches can get hired and fired, players will come and players will go, but relevance will never die.

Hate us or love us, nevertheless We are Notre Dame...

Top 10 Moments of London 2012

2012-08-20T16:28:00.000-07:00

London 2012 provided the world an opportunity to step away from the toils of everyday life and enjoy a little bit of international competition. We waved goodbye to Michael Phelps, Misty May and Kerri Walsh; and welcomed Missy Franklin and Katie Ledecky to the scene. Regardless of the fact that we got caught up in the scandalous play of traditional powerhouse, China, badminton became relevant in America. Oscar Pistorius embodied what it means to be an Olympian. Although he did not make the medal stand, his strong will and determination had a greater impact on the games than gold, silver or bronze.

That being said, here are my top 10 moments from the 30th Olympiad.

10. Bryan Brothers Strike Gold
An epic final point gave the Bryan Bros. the perfect ending to their 2012 Olympics. By adding a gold medal to their collection, the Bros. have completed the career Golden Slam. To make things even sweeter they defeated Frenchies Jo-Wilfried and Michael Llodra to take the gold.

9. Serena Williams is Golden
To say Serena is in the zone is an understatement. Lately she has been on fire. She has dominated the hallowed grounds of Wimbledon, winning both the singles and doubles titles partnered with her sister, Venus. A few weeks later she came back to London and won double gold. It has truly been a great summer for Serena.

8. Gabby Douglas Shines
Jordyn Wieber vs Gabby Douglas. That was the match up gymnastics fans expected to see in London. However, following the individual all-around qualification it was just Douglas who qualified along with teammate Aly Raisman leaving Wieber on the outside looking in. With her biggest competitor out of the way, Douglas wasted no time in pursuing her goal. She captured our hearts becoming the first African American woman to win the all-around gold. She later went on to help Team USA and the Fab 5 grab gold in the team competition.

7. The Female Phelps... Missy Franklin
Franklin became the new face of USA Swimming by taking home 4 golds and 1 bronze as well as breaking World and Olympic records. At just 17, Franklin has an opportunity to excel in at least 2 more Summer Olympics. If she continues to improve her medal count could rival the great Michael Phelps, but for now she has to finish high school.

6. Misty May and Kerri Walsh Dominate
Beach volleyball has arguably become one of the quickest growing Olympic sports. The increased popularity of the sport is due largely to the combination of Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh Jennings. The dynamic duo have never lost a match in Olympic competition and have dropped just one set. Their dominance in the sport has been golden, winning gold in the past 3 Olympics. Although they will no longer be playing together, their legacy has been left in the sand as the most dominant pair in history.

5. UK's Golden Moment
It truly was a 'Super Saturday' for the UK pulling in 6 gold medals on the day. 2 golds in rowing and 1 in cycling led the day off for the hometown team. The excitement only grew at Olympic Stadium where Mo Farah, Jessica Ennis and Greg Rutherford brought home golds in the 10,000m, decathlon and long jump respectively. To top things off, the following day Andy Murray finally broke through at Wimbledon defeating Roger Federer to grab gold. London's golden moment has been called the greatest day in British sports in the last 100 years.

4. Oscar Pistorious
Pistorious was arguably the most memorable athlete of the 2012 games and he didn't even win a race. The double amputee made his mark on these games by competing with able bodied athletes. His running blades were part of pre-Olympic controversy, but after winning his appeal, London 2012 became a reality. Pistorious may not have finished first, but he definitely took home a gold medal for his courage and perseverance displayed in London.

3. USA Women's Soccer Redemption
Down 3-2 vs Canada in the semifinal match I had my doubts about the USA's ability to find a way into the gold medal match. Following a swing of good luck (and a few questionable calls) the ladies were carried into the finals by a beautiful header by Alex Morgan (both the goal and Morgan are beautiful). The gold medal match vs Japan had all the makings of a thriller. With the help of 2 goals from Carli Lloyd and clutch saves by Hope Solo the USA avenged their World Cup loss and secured a 3rd consecutive gold medal.

2. Insane Usain
Words cannot describe the dominance Bolt lays down on the track. Completing the trifecta for a second straight Olympics vaults Bolt towards the top of the all time great Olympians. Can he repeat in Rio? Who knows, but if he does it can be argued that he is the greatest Olympian ever. Only time will tell.

1. Phelps Cements His Place in History
18 gold, 2 silver, 2 bronze, 1 Phelps. Entering the 2012 Olympics Ryan Lochte was the man to beat. Exiting the London Games Lochte was just another man. Phelps reigns supreme and always has. Following his loss in the 400 IM people thought that Phelps was finished. Dan Hicks and Rowdy Gaines declared Lochte King of the Pool after just one race against Phelps... Then Michael woke up. He shut up Hicks and Gaines, set the all time medal count record, and made Lochte (and his mom) the jokers of London. At 22 total medals, Phelps has more medals than 82 countries! Step aside boys, it is Phelps time to swim off into the sunset as the greatest Olympian ever.

Chasing A Dream

2012-04-06T19:18:00.000-07:00

Tiger Woods, LeBron James, Jack Nickalus, Adrian Gonzalez

Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg, Oprah

What do all of these people have in common?

Yes, they are all famous and they make millions (if not billions), but more importantly they all skipped a portion of their college experience in order to pursue a greater goal. Each of these individuals made the decision to skip out on college, but nobody seems to be suffering from their decisions.

Why then, does the entire sports world (and beyond) feel the need to comment on the status of the University of Kentucky's basketball program?

We live in a country that at one time supported the idea of an "American Dream." So why now are we trying to define what is and is not an acceptable dream? Anthony Davis has had one of the most impressive college basketball seasons in the history of the sport. Why can't he leave school early and pursue his dream of playing in the NBA? What are people so worked up about?

I cannot stand watching announcers say that the "kids should stay in school." People like Doug Gottlieb make it seem like there will be such a negative impact on the sporting world if these kids go pro. I firmly believe that he is wrong. Such a small percentage of athletes have an opportunity to go pro in their sport. Why when the opportunity arises, are we telling them to not achieve their dream?

I am a college athlete, playing D3 baseball. I think I am correct in saying that most of my teammates have an understanding that we will not make the MLB. But if one of my teammates had an opportunity to skip their senior seasons for an opportunity to play at the highest level, I would support him 100% to chase that dream.

Some people argue that allowing kids to leave school early and enter the pros is setting a standard that academics don't matter.

I argue that if we tell kids that they have to stay in school we are setting a standard that dreams don't matter. Some of the best and brightest in entertainment, technology, and athletics all pursued their dreams and things have turned out ok.

It's a personal choice as to how you chase your dreams. I am not going to stand in the way of someones dream.

I was once told, "Sometimes when you reach for the stars, you only grab a piece of the sky."

Let's not limit the ability of athletes to reach, by cutting off their arm.

Robbie Hummel: Passion on and off the court

2012-03-19T12:46:00.000-07:00

It's March and for many college basketball fans that means it's Christmas. 68 team started on the road to the final four and just 16 remain. Oh, how sweet it is. Millions of brackets were filled out and just about all of them were busted (thank you Missouri and Duke). People have their hopes dashed as they watch their team bow out of the tourney while other fans celebrate joyously as their team moved on. As a Notre Dame fan, March feels like the Bubonic Plague. Having a dark cloud loom over the head of your beloved Irish isn't easy to deal with. For the first time in my life, I cried following their loss to Xavier on Friday night.

This leads me to the point I want to make. While fans can live and die with their team (or teams), players face the reality that their dreams may come to an end. Case in point, Robbie Hummel.

The Purdue University "super senior" has had his ups and downs throughout his time in West Lafayette. He has battled through multiple injuries, but has never given up on his dream, basketball. Now I cannot say whether or not he will get drafted or even be a average NBA player, but what I can say is that he should be used as a model for what college basketball is all about. The man had passion. Plain and simple.

He could have taken the easy road and quit after his first knee injury, but he saw the potential in his team to do bigger things. So, he had surgery and came back with the hopes of making a magical run through the NCAA tournament. However, Hummel tore his ACL again before the 2010-11 season and was forced to sit out once more. Now after missing the 2010 postseason and the entire 2010-11 season can you imagine the drive Hummel had to get back on the court? If the man had no passion, no intensity, or no will to play the game he would've quit.

It was difficult for me to watch the career of the great Robbie Hummel come to an end on Sunday night. Although I am not a Purdue fan, I am from Indiana and I can recognize when a team has a special basketball player. Hummel was not only special to that team, but to the entire landscape of college basketball. He embodied what it meant to be passionate about basketball. His attitude and love of the game was spread throughout his teammates, coaches, fellow students, and the entire Purdue basketball fan base.

It's not every day that you run into a player like Hummel. College basketball has become too much of a stepping stone to the NBA for any player to stay and have an impact like Hummel. Sure, Kentucky is great, but what will they have next year? Who will make a lasting impact? If everyone jumps ship, then there is no impact. There is no Hummel.

The raw emotion shown by players, like Hummel, is what makes college basketball great. I can appreciate any individual who puts so much effort into something that does not even offer a kickback. The greatest athletes in sport are the ones who can have the same passion regardless if they are getting paid or not. The tears streaming down Hummel's face on Sunday night were his farewell and thank you to Purdue. Not only for his time playing basketball, but his time spent with the community and the time they shared together as one fan base.

Hummel brought so much to the Purdue community and he gave everything he had to be the best for Purdue. I only hope that in the coming season Purdue gives something back to him and hangs #4 in the rafters for all to remember.

MLB Wild Wild Card

2011-09-30T21:42:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, September 28th, a day that I will remember as a rejuvenation for baseball.

1 night, 6 teams, 2 wild card spots...

By the time August rolls around and September is on its way, most sports fans have turned their attention to NCAAF or the NFL. The small minority of fans who keep an eye on the MLB are the fans that have a rooting interest in a potential playoff candidate. Being a Cub fan, I knew our season was over the minute we let Ryne Sandberg get away... last November. So my interest in the playoff picture was, at best, remote. I was aware of the contenders and as far as I could see, the playoff picture was pretty clear to me at the end of August.

NL: Phillies, Braves, Brewers, D-Backs
AL: Red Sox, Yankees, Tigers, Rangers (The Angels were still relevant)

Then September hit.

While the only divisional leader who dropped was Boston to the Yankees, all the other division leaders held strong through the month. The wild card was a whole different story. Three teams in both leagues vying for one final spot. At the start of September the Red Sox held a nine game lead while the Braves were up eight and a half games. Most people signed off from the MLB waiting for the playoffs to start. Besides, who doesn't love watching the Colts go 0-3 to start the season...

However, as the MLB season was wrapping up it was as if the "baseball gods" wanted our attention to be refocused to the national pastime. Suddenly Boston and Atlanta were taking hits like Jay Cutler, and St. Louis and the Rays were coming up hot.

It came down to game 162 in both leagues. One game to decide the fate of the playoffs. Would we be granted not one, but two 163rd games?? As I sat and watched the Cardinals whomp the Triple-A Astros I wondered who they would throw against the Braves in game 163. What I failed to realize was the significance of this night regardless of the result. This night would save the game of baseball.

The Patriots, Falcons, Rams and Buccaneers all took a backseat on Wednesday night. Nobody cared how or why the Patriots got beat by the Bills. People weren't focused on how bad the Buccaneers are gonna beat the Colts on Monday Night Football (or why those teams are playing MNF). The sporting world was focused on baseball.

Rain delays, close calls, plays at the plate, and walk-off homers made this night the best night. In a matter of 4 minutes the entire playoff picture was decided. Atlanta failed to close the door and fell to the Phillies leaving Brave Nation in peril and empty handed. The "never say die" Baltimore Orioles came back and stunned the Red Sox capping off Boston's horrid fall from grace. Dan Johnson and Evan Longoria followed the Orioles lead and provided the dramatics to a partially empty, yet still buzzing Tropicana Field.

Critics may say the MLB season is too long, but I say if you have 162 games you might as well try to win them all...

Irish Eyes Aren't Smiling

2011-09-12T19:01:00.000-07:00

Two weeks through the college football season, two painful losses for my Fighting Irish. For the sake of my own health, mental and physical, I'm not even gonna discuss the South Florida meltdown. Instead I'm turning my full attention to the delightful and historical Michigan game.

114,000 people + The Big House + Night Game = Rocking Atmosphere

By far one of the most exciting crowds I have ever seen. The energy in the stadium appeared to challenge the likes of an SEC rivalry game. Watching on television was awesome, I can only imagine what it was like in the stadium.

Looking past all the buildup, the game itself was rather disappointing. Yes everyone is still blabbing about how it is, and will be, an "Instant Classic." But seriously look at the stat lines... Denard "Shoelace" Robinson completed 11 passes for 338 yards!! Where was the Notre Dame secondary!?!? The last 2 mins answered that question... ND's secondary does not exist.

Being a diehard Irish fan it was hard for me to see the team lose another heartbreaker. The season can be summed up in one word thus far... Turnovers. Nine in two games. How is any team supposed to win with that glaring number? Simple. You can't. Another thought. If you are a ND defensive back (or coach) why not commit pass interference and force them to kick a FG and head to overtime. The attitude should be no matter what happens, Michigan cannot catch the ball in the end zone. Do whatever is necessary to prevent that. Commit the foul, play for overtime, see what happens. Instead, Gary Gray got spun around like a merry-go-round, committed the foul, but, Roy Roundtree still made the catch. Losing while looking like a fool... classic

A NCAA DI football coach has multiple responsibilities. Some defensively, some offensively, and sometimes legally (but lets not discuss Brian Kelly's fumble with Michael Floyd's criminal record). But the most important job of a head coach is to mentally prepare his football team for battle. Thus far, ND has for the most part looked scared. There have been a few bright lights (Tommy Rees and Cierre Wood to name a couple). However, when the majority of the team doesn't have the look of confidence in their eyes, you aren't gonna win.

Even Brian Kelly looked flustered. At one point in the fourth quarter ESPN showed both Kelly and new Michigan coach Brady Hoke on a split screen. Kelly, the more "experienced" coach looked like he was losing control and didn't know how to carry himself. While on the other hand, Hoke looked clam, cool, and collected. Like he had done this before. His face said he was gonna win this game.

Two minutes, two comebacks and another Michigan victory. Michigan is now 2-0, filled with confidence led by a star athlete in "Shoelace" Robinson and "Michigan Man" Brady Hoke. Notre Dame is in a downward spiral of doubt. The nation doubting their mentality, the team doubting themselves. It doesn't get any easier next week when #15 Michigan St. comes to town.

This isn't the time to look for pity. This is the time to pick up the ashes, gain some mental toughness, and play a complete game like the Irish are capable of doing. The talent is there, the performance is just lacking...

Brining The Salt (and hopefully pepper) to Wrigley

2011-08-26T21:00:00.000-07:00

Jim Hendry, thank you for the time you spent with the Cubs organization. You were a very likable person and always brought a positive demeanor with you to the ballpark. I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors.

Now that I have maxed out my emotional potential it's time to address Hendry's replacement. As everyone who exists on God's green Earth knows, the Chicago Cubs have been "lovable losers" for 103 years (soon to be 104). Being a faithful Cubbie for my entire baseball fandom I have a vested interest in the future of the organization. The firing of Hendry is a prime opportunity for the Cubs to make a turn in the right direction.

Go big or go home... Don't settle with an average guy. We settled with Mike Quade and that was unacceptable. If you wanna win games you have to bring in the right guys. That starts from the top down. As much as I hate the Yankees, I admire them for their fearlessness in spending money on players and taking chances with guys. Along with that, they, as well as, the Red Sox can develop young talent. Not only in the minors, but on a professional level. Starlin Castro is great, no doubt. However, he needs to be developed at a professional level. Looking back through past Cub talent, Mark Prior was our last fully developed, MLB ready player... and look where he is now.

The Ricketts need to go out there and pull in a big name, big success, down to business GM. No more "lets just give this guy a chance" mentality. We already know how the College of Coaches worked out for the Cubs in the 60's. Lets not try the College of General Mangers.

A good GM will develop good talent. Good talent will result in good teams and good teams will win games. Maybe we can win a World Series in my lifetime.

Cubs fans... Win Big or Die Trying and lets ditch the damn goat

The NCAA

2011-08-18T06:39:00.000-07:00

Everywhere I turn I can't seem to get away from the constant University of Miami scandal. Boats, booze, and babes... Obviously punishment will follow the "extensive" investigations by the almighty NCAA governing body. While "The U" is about to be pushed to the brink of the death penalty, my issue is with the NCAA.

Following the recent Ohio State scandal, recruiting rules have been changed. Official visits have been constricted. Phone calls have been limited. Breakfast has been destroyed... Wait, what?!

Yes, it's true the NCAA has imposed breakfast regulations. Recruits are now limited to fruit, nuts, and a bagel for breakfast. Want some cream cheese? Violation. Can I have jelly instead? Violation. What kind of country are we living in if we can't even get some cream cheese with our bagel?!

The NCAA is a joke. When you can't keep an eye on schools that have had a past history in questionable recruiting practices, how can you expect to gain respect from athletes? The monster that is illegal recruiting has been created by the NCAA. Turning a blind eye to make a quick buck.

It's time for a change and a new governing body in college sports. Take a stance and make a change. Worry about compliance and not about breakfast.