The daily prompt asks – What Olympic sports do you enjoy watching the most?
Basketball, boxing, track and field, beach volleyball and swimming/diving are the ones I watch the most of.
Opinion – I know big money has reached into every area of sports there is and the Olympics are no exception. But in my opinion, it’s still where you are going to find the truest athletes who train and love the games, they compete in more than the money.
The daily prompt asks – What are your favorite sports to watch and play?
Basketball and Baseball are still my favorite sports. College Basketball is my favorite sport. I loved playing basketball and the excitement of watching college games live.
Major league baseball has made some significant changes and is much easier to watch and enjoy now the game has quickened. I also enjoyed playing as a youth. Even made a few all-star teams. Still have my favorite bat.
Sports are a great teaching tool. Lots of things about sportsmanship are important in life also. Working as a team. Having dedicated your mind and body to something. It tests your mental and physical toughness. It can teach respect, admiration, compassion, leadership, and honesty. Sports are GREAT.
I’m depressed to see what they have become at times though. Even down to little league ball. Parents and coaches treating it like life and death. Poor behavior by parents. Kids with attitudes that obviously came from home.
But despite that, the true nature of sports and its benefits are still present in our society despite commercialization and gambling and making it a business that goes down to kids way too young, which is disgusting.
Kids are still learning important values from competition. People are still enjoying the games.
The most recent issue with sports I can think of is sports becoming a class thing. In the last few years, I’ve missed games I could always see because they are moving some to streaming services. Ticket prices for professional sports and some college sports are out of range now for a lot of people. Even middle class. Salaries of players and greed of owners are making the distance between the ones who watch and buy the merchandise to a point where it will break.
Even the cost for the kids to join leagues now is tough for a lot of people to afford.
That’s my little girl about to drive that softball DEEP. I enjoyed participating in both my children’s various sports for some years. Coaching kids is a lot of fun.
Gambling and major sports have been bitten. Not the first time and certainly not the last. Players, officials, managers/coaches, trainers and owners are all suspects. They are in bed with some very dangerous people and it’s already out of control. They got greedy and the piper is coming to collect.
I bet news of this hasn’t even slowed NBA or other betting much. People will say that’s the mob and a couple guys who got caught up in it. The rest of it must be legit, right?
It’s out of control and many people don’t know they have an addiction to it and will only realize it when everything is gone.
The backboard might still be there, but the goal of it being a game is GONE.
And gamblers, if you don’t think others are working on fixing things for you to lose, you’re deluding yourself. If I were a betting man, I’d lay money that there are already problems in all sports, even college that were just not aware of yet.
Maybe I’m overly cautious, luckily, I realized I couldn’t gamble early, before it became a problem a long time ago.
Best of luck you all who are still willing to play. I hope you win big and retire before it’s all gone again.
Asking myself about my sports fandom.
Sometimes you’re a fan for life. For instance, my love of the Yankees and Maryland basketball teams. That won’t change. Sometimes things change and change a committed fan a distant one. My example would be the Washington Redskins; we followed them in the 70s and 80s but through a series of bad ownerships loyalty to that team faded. But I’m interested in them again with new ownership and an exciting QB.
I’m a fan of tennis but of no one in particular. I used to be a NASCAR fan but when Senior was killed and Junior retired, I lost all interest. Which was strange because I was a fan before them also.
I’m a fan of the Olympics, but only every 4 years.
I’ve always followed and liked the Green Bay Packers but I’m not a rabid fan.
I’m a fan of kids playing sports. Watching joy and excitement and love of a game is nice.
March Madness has always had a strong grip on me. It’s probably the biggest sporting event between my group of friends and my son.
I was losing interest in baseball till the rule changes which are great and has revitalized my interest in the game.
The NBA has a lot of ego problems. Great basketball but too many head cases. But I’ve always followed the league and have been a longtime Laker fan.
I’ve gotten into Formula 1 and Drag racing recently. I used to watch a ton of Indy car racing when I was younger.
I was a big fan of Thurmond Munson, Len Bias and Dale Earnhardt. All those sudden deaths affected me.
What Olympic sports do you enjoy watching the most? – A simple one from the daily writing prompt.
I find the track and field events and swimming to be the most exciting to watch. They usually have the closest finishes and most drama. Some of the gymnastic events are pretty entertaining, like the uneven parallel bars or vault.
This last Olympics, I watched a lot of beach volleyball.
The Maryland Terps are going to the SWEET 16 and I’m dancing around my basement tonight. I believe they said it was the first buzzer beater of the tournament. Fitting given we have been beaten 4 times this year by that.
I’ve been a fan of this team since 1967 when I went to my first game. That was kind of strange, but it did break the ice a bit. And by that mean I had just lost my father at 9 years old and a year later my mother went to the Big Brother organization. An alumni of Maryland reached out and took me to a game, and I was hooked.
Cole Field House was a GIANT Stadium (for a 10 year old) about 15K seats. But the energy, excitement and game hooked me from that point. I started playing ball every day I had a chance. My friends did also and played for decades after. And we all follow Maryland passionately to this day.
But the sweetest thing about this now, my son is also a big fan. I so enjoy being able to go to games and talk basketball with him. And I see him developing that passion that will carry him throughout life. I can’t wait to take his son also.
I might have to break down and buy some merch for us now, to remember this special year.
For the first time in a few days I was inspired to come to the computer and write. I also plugged the camera batteries in because I need to get back to work this week. I lost some production time for sure. The clarity of thought is returning, I’m looking forward to leaving the house again Monday and a positive mindset is returning.
I’ve got 4 sick days on my calendar where I keep track of my treadmill miles and I’m looking forward to putting numbers on there again.
I’m missing a family event today. Few things frustrate me more. Actually, nothing frustrates me more than that. I’m on the mend but this persistent cough I’m sure would have made others uncomfortable and my energy reserves would have been severely tested. I get winded and coughing going up the stairs.
I’ll make it up to my daughter and take her and her daughter out to dinner soon.
Sports
The Maryland Terps play tonight and if they win they make the Sweet 16, something nobody predicted. At the beginning of the season and they weren’t even picked to make the tournament this year. Picked to finish 10-11th in their own conference (finished 2nd).
Our group lives for these games. Some of my friends, became quickly spoiled this year when the early games showed a lot of promise. Forgetting the complete unknown they were before the season started. No idea how 4 new starters would jell with the senior fixture in the center.
It’s a credit to these young men and the coaching staff that they made the round of 32 and if they win tonight, the round of 16 which before the season would have been unheard of. There is something special about this group and I hope they go further. But I thank them for the excitement, promise, and opportunity to really enjoy the March Madness.
I was able to attend 5 home games this year. And what fun they were with friends and my son. I have one wish for that program and they really need to fix this. The good seats are sold out but rarely completely full. Sometime embarrassing partially full. There has to be a way to get those seats that aren’t being used to kids and families that someday might be inspired to play for their home state. Get my drift. It solve two issues. It helps with recruiting and it keeps the stadium packed.
Oh, retaining this coach would be a good first step before anything else.
Some seasons ended last evening. Some in very disappointing fashion being close to the Dance but not getting that invite. The team I follow has been on the outside looking in a few years. Sometimes in extremely tough fashion.
From the NCAA history section – The NCAA tournament field grew to 16 teams in 1951, doubled to 32 in 1975 and expanded to its current size of 64 teams in 1985. An opening-round game was introduced in 2001. Three more games were added to that round in 2011 for the inaugural First Four to take the tournament to its current size of 68 teams.
The 1975 expansion was partially due to one of The University of Maryland’s best teams ever, being denied entry to the tournament despite being the #3 rated team in the country. Back then only the ACC Champion from the ACC Tournament went. And that year it was NC State who eventually became the National Champion.
While I feel bad for the schools that were left off, but let the games begin. There were a few this year who shouldn’t be in (North Carolina), but fate is what it is.
As a basketball junkie this is the fix season. One and done. Drama every game. Emotions on display. Great basketball.
Pools are nice but the real excitement is in the game.
I’m sorry if I created a misunderstanding. I said I’d be watching the 5 on 5 on the court for March.
It’s that wonderful time of year. The sound of basketballs going through the net, the crowd jumping in unison, people moved to tears of joy or sorrow. Ah, March Madness is under way with it’s preliminary tune up – the conference tournaments, which conclude with the Selection Show on Sunday evening for the seedings and matchups for the BIG DANCE next week.
The home team The University of Maryland has had a wonderful year and I wish them great success in the coming days. GO TERPS
My son and I attended the final game of the regular season for the Maryland Terps men’s hoop team yesterday and relished the victory. It’s been a special season. One that was unexpectedly very successful. It appears Maryland will finish in 2nd or 3rd in the Conference when they were picked to finish 11th on average.
It’s also been a rarity of a season in many ways. I’ll start with the coach. After last season he was already on the hot seat, despite not having much talent. An entirely new starting lineup this year with the exception of one player. That one player is a senior. What? A senior still playing for the same team for 4 years. And not a bad player at that. He could have transferred when a coaching change was made in his time. He stayed. He is Maryland Pride.
Julian Reese and his teammates have come together as a unit in a unique way very quickly. The success the entire starting unit dubbed the “CRAB FIVE“, a takeoff of the old Michigan teams “Fab Five” has had together is special.
Anyone on that starting unit can score 20-30 points a game. All 5 starters average in double figures. The team averages 81.5 points a game. But the strongest part of the team is their defense. They are stifling. Defense has kept them in every game this season.
And while the bench hasn’t been the scoring machine they have provided some pressure defense and a few key plays this season to keep victories alive.
I so hope they do well in the Big 10 Tournament and the Big Dance NCAA Tourney. It would be nice to send the seniors off with a championship and keep this train rolling. Because when this team is playing well, they can play with anyone in the country. Go TERPS.
I hope to attend a lot more games next year.
Almost time to report to the diamond and Play Ball. The major leaguers are at it and I’m guessing the kids are out soon. I’ll have to drive down to Wallace Park and see if I can catch the kids practicing this week. As I said, I need to practice my sports photography.
Random Thought of the Afternoon
Attending Maryland basketball games has always been a load of fun for me. And tonight was no different. A victory over USC 88-71 and a tie for 4th place in the conference. CBS and Sports Illustrated had them predicted to finish 11th in the conference.
I went through several other newspaper publications around conference schools and found that 11th ranking about the norm, there were a few 10s and 12s. The nice thing is there are games left and we could win the conference title. That would be a nice way to announce ” We’re BACK”
The college game has an excitement about it that few other sport events do. Maybe Olympics but that’s national instead of local. While it feels like the same spirit, there isn’t the local connection with the athletes that the university and its alumni and regular fans develop with those institutions.
The shot below was from before a game a few years ago. Tonight, the place was rocking, but I’d still like to see a few more of those season ticket holders in the good seat show up. Or maybe donate your seats if you can’t use them.
Random Thoughts of the wee hours of the Morning
A rather uncomfortable day physically, yesterday. Starting off a little better today so life is good. And a busy day ahead it is, full of opportunities.
Sports
Between NBA, MLB, NFL and Colleges, it’s extremely hard to keep track of WHERE THE HELL ANYONE IS PLAYING, from day to day, month to month and year to year. Before when I wrote about this it was from the relationship of the fan and the players.
This week I saw a different side. All these guys know it’s a business. But they develop friendships and when those go for a few years and more sometimes, it’s hard to split ways. And that has to take an emotional toll and affect locker rooms. Most people could see and feel it with the AD for Luka trade.
I know they work hard on building the new chemistry immediately because of the constant pressure to win especially after big trades or free agent moves or portal transfers or whatever colleges call their teleportation method.
It’s just like what has happened to the workplace. The first 3 decades I worked with people that had worked for their companies for multiple decades. The last 2 decades I worked with people who rarely made it to their first decade at a single employer.
It used to be such a treat to see a college coach get player for 4 years and develop and mold them both individually and as a team over a period of time. Now its year to year with new players all the time. If they are real good they move pro immediately.
If they are good but not with a big enough program the move universities and bigger conferences with more exposure. If they are average in a big program and not getting playing time they transfer to a smaller university to play.
It drives me friggin INSANE. Because I saw how it once was and seemed to work for both the players and the game. No it wasn’t perfect then either but I just can’t see this sustaining itself.
And the most important thing both player and athletes are missing, is that long term relationship. One’s that yield an intense bond with people. That turn into decades long friendships that last beyond the job or team.
Random Thoughts of the Morning
I woke this morning with the thought of my grandchildren. They are a lot of fun and a source of many smiles. Be it a picture from their parents, or Facetime call. And best of all, the times we get to watch them ourselves, or be together as a family.
We just had a great stretch of time with them this past week. I think, I only have one opportunity this coming week, so I’ll have to stay in touch other ways. I’ve been sending my granddaughter cards every so often, so I’ll get one ready in the mail to send off tomorrow.
My grandson loves my tractor and wants to get on it or see it each time he comes over. I’ll have to make that a priority this month on the first warm day and get a battery and see if it will fire up for it’s 27th year, I believe.
I wonder how much of an opportunity I’ll have with the grandkids as they grow up. I’ll have to find ways to stay connected. I’ve got to lower that basketball hoop in my driveway because the granddaughter is old enough to shoot at it.
I’m just thankful they live close enough to be in contact and help out when needed.
Sports
Another day of exciting college basketball. But the blockbuster I woke to this morning, was the Lakers and Mavericks swapping star players. AD for Luka. Amazing what happens behind closed doors. It kind of makes sense for both teams. Just that nobody saw it coming.
It it my belief that online gambling will not only destroy many lives but it will destroy some sports. Every address in this country has part of Vegas in their yard or home. And if it’s easier than walking into a casino with cash and I believe it’s also easier to continue betting longer than you would at a table or machine.
The stats I read on it are staggering to me. These online services have appealed to a huge group of people who use them actively. It is my goal to never download one of those. I’ve gambled on sports. A friendly bet with my son each week during football season so we can stay in touch more. Or one on our rivalry with the Orioles and Yankees. I might play an office pool for March Madness. And if I lose money its to family and friends, no Casino taking their cut or the winnings.
6 Days and 17 hours till Spring Training.
Chiefs and Eagles – Going with Andy Reid’s experience.
Random Thoughts of the Morning
I’m looking for that spark this morning. I’ve managed to knock out a few tasks already, made some prints for my granddaughter and did some writing. I’ll be heading outside this morning to capture some fresh images on the camera.
The Terps are playing Wisconsin tonight so I’ll be watching that and “engineering them on to victory” as our group says. The students are back so the Xfinity Center should be rocking. That red you see in this photo will be replace by the Gold Rush tonight.
That Gold crowd shot always looks good on tv. I’ll be attending a game later this season with my son.
Food Thoughts
I’m looking forward to grilling season again. I didn’t do well on my goal to cook a lot more last year but the opportunity is here again for me to take advantage of. And each time I grill, I’m going to try to incorporate onions, peppers, zucchini, squash, mushrooms and corn. Or at least a few of those depending on the meat or seafood.
I’d like to try some some grilled grouper this year. I’ve never tried lobster on the grill either. Maybe some mahi mahi, for some tacos. And of course from the great state of Maryland, the fresh rockfish from the Chesapeake Bay.
Now I’m hungry. Too early to think about lunch so I’ll go get some exercise till it’s time. Have a good morning all.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I’m feeling overbooked today. But, better busy than not. I’ll be back out today trying to find some color in this drab season of winter. It felt good to shoot a bit yesterday, so I’ll keep that motivation rolling.
We also have a packed family weekend ahead so shooting time will be limited. Maybe I’ll head out in the early mornings.
Here it is mid-afternoon and I’m feeling behind. Appointments made for tomorrow. Shopped at Costco this morning and came out much lighter in the wallet.
Sports Thoughts
Cold Thoughts
Random Thoughts of the Day
I was longing for some warmer weather, or at least warmer thoughts. This is a long way off from the frozen tundra outside now. But one can wish.
What’s wrong with the NBA
The NBA has more talent in it each year.
My first thought is what about the game of the past did I like? That isn’t part of it now. The amount of mobility of all players including stars. And the movement is so frequent getting attached to a team and people you like is only a one-year deal between the fan and team. That is not sustainable.
Another thing that came to mind is the intensity. Regular season games had meaning at one time. Either players were having fun competing to show who was best or they were almost at blows. But both were intensity driven. I don’t see that intensity, almost like they are going through the motions during the regular season.
Go to a college game and then a pro game. People sit on their asses at a pro game. In college you’re standing a lot. That is a tough one. There could be just too many regular season games but that wasn’t a problem decades ago.
Connections between fans and players don’t exist. I’ll speak on that one personally. Neither my son or I who both love basketball are not following players and teams anywhere like we used to. The connection between player and team isn’t there anymore so how can it be between a fan and a team or player. What incentive do I have to buy a jersey when the player is wearing different colors the next season.
Or the team you followed for decades is just a collection of miscellaneous pieces that change several times even during the same season. It’s impossible to develop a relationship with those factors.
Oh, and the two factors that keep me from attending any game from the pros. The ticket price and on top of that you aren’t guaranteed to see the players you’re paying TOP DOLLAR to see play. At one time I could accept that due to injuries. Now players rest during the season. And if you live in a area with a mediocre team, the chance of seeing the best play isn’t good.
And the elephant in the room. The 3-point shot. I know it’s a copycat league, but jeez, could someone just try big men again. Actually, two or 3 big men would be a nice try by a GM. Think about it, if you find a Shaq and two other big guys and just pound the ball in the paint to those three and let them dunk or get fouled and foul out the other big guys.
Figuring you score like 75% of the time to offset the other team shooting 35% from 3. Teams average about 90 shots per game. Taking all 2 points and hitting 75% would equal 136 points per game. Teams average about 14 3-point shots made per game. That’s 42 points a game. A team shooting 36% from the field has taken 40 attempts. So that leave 50 shots and lets say you average 60% from the field that is only another 60 points. Which is 102 per game.
I’ll give the fact that the small team will get some fast break points and I’d give them a few more points a game for that but the big team should own the boards. I’ll even give the 3-point shooting team a 50% average from 3 because they won’t be defended as well. So instead of 42 a game off 3’s it would be 19 made and 57 points but you add that to 60 and maybe another 10 for fast breaks, that’s still only 127 a game.
Just a thought for an up and coming GM. Then again I was never a math major so there could be mistakes above. And I’m sure they have run so many statistical models that this isn’t possible. But the fact that nobody it trying it and therefore nobody has come up with a defensive model for it might be worth a shot.
Or maybe they came to the same conclusion I have. The Refs would never call it fair, guys can hang on big men all day but just lay a finger on a 3-point shooter and you have a 3 free throws and maybe the occasional technical for flagerent finger touch.
Anyway, note to NBA – you had better come up with something because the game is getting away from both of us. Plus I hate the influence its having on the college game.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I’m feeling strong, but I also feels like something is lurking. So there is no alternative but to keep moving forward. I have my work cut out for me today, more than I’ve been doing, but I can adjust.
Life
Plumbing
Sports
I think I hit a wall last night. I passed out at the kickoff of the National Championship game. That’s about how much interest it held for me last night.
Politics
I didn’t watch a minute of yesterday’s Inauguration or its coverage. I’m changing the way I handle the next 4 years. The contrast in the two men at the forefront of attention yesterday is remarkable. I don’t want to waste time and energy listening to all the babble. Just what he does and doesn’t do.
Creating
Random Thoughts of the Day
Looks like a busy Sunday evening ahead. Two more miles to go on the treadmill to meet today’s goal. Another game to watch this evening. And then outside to remove the snow and ice from the walks, driveway and vehicles.
Sports
Each year I remind myself mid-season to tempter my expectations. Especially when it comes to college basketball and the University of Maryland basketball teams. Sports, even college and high school have such high expectations of winning all the time, and when you don’t you’re bums. Well not really, but a segment of the population looks at it like that.
Don’t get me wrong, I think and hope they can win every game they play. When they play well early in the season which they often do, then expectations build. There was a win today but it wasn’t pretty and I’m sure made many more than me think we may have thought we were better than we were. No disrepect meant towards the Nebraska program which played very hard and smart today.
The wonderful thing about college sports is how well teams of young people jell and mature throughout the year or don’t. There are a dozen games left in the regular season. More than enough to make an impression and be invited to the Dance in March. I hope it’s a special one this year.
Some see these kids as pampered athletes, they still are affected like you and me when traveling, which they do a lot of. They have studying and tests to take. Most are 18-22 years old and still developing physically and mentally.
So while the mental lapses are frustrating. And the effort sometimes might seem lacking. Or that they are pushing too hard at the wrong times or being impatient. I’ll hope for the best, try to point out the positives which there are many.
This is a team that if it were to gell, has the potential to go very deep into the tournament.
Food
I love tacos. My better half makes up a good taco dinner. But we started last night at La Palapa Too Mexican Grill & Cantina off John Hopkins Road with some Shrimp Tacos which were very good. My friends had the Fritias and they looked and smelled great. Tonight some meat tacos and the spicy shells I like.
Weather
I’m not ready for that cold tonight, but I’ll power through it. And when I say power through it, not with power tools, but by hand and shovel. I just stepped outside to see what its like and it’s bitter. I’ll have to see if I have the energy in the morning to maybe get out and take some images.
Another week in the books for 2025. A productive one and fun one. A week of extremes, sadness and joy. My week of exercise was also up and down unlike the previous consistent weeks. Maybe this coming week I can work to restore a balance in life.
Social Media
Not that it affects me, but it seems to be near the top of many concerns today is the Tik Tok ban. In short if experts say it’s a risk, let’s mitigate it. Even if it comes alive again, I won’t be joining.
A good friend of mine this morning started a discussion about dropping Facebook. Boy would l like to. And I may one day but right now it provides connections to a lot of old work friends of over 5 decades through alumni groups and a few old friends no longer living in the area. And of course, the occasional posts I see from family.
That is tough to disconnect from now, but as time has moved on this past year it has become less important. I don’t find myself even checking it each day.
Weather
I haven’t seen the snow I expected. So either it’s coming later than forecasted, or isn’t going to be much of anything when it comes. Whatever does come down I’ll clean immediately because it will get frozen tonight.
The real cold weather gear is coming out. The big gloves, scarf, heaviest coat and 1 piece insulated suit. Oh, the knit hats and hoods will also be employed.
Please stay safe this coming week, dangerous cold is on its way.
Politics
Some interesting times ahead. But that is true no matter who is in power. I’ll continue to support some issues I believe in. I’ll continue to vote at every opportunity. I’ll be doing more reading than listening to the talking heads.
As always, I’ll try to find out what the truth is. A mission harder and harder as time goes on.
Sports
I picked both winners yesterday and hope for the Ravens and Rams today. Not that I’m gambling apart from the small bet I make with my son to just stay in touch each week.
It was disappointing to see a less than optimal effort by the University of Maryland men’s basketball team. Yes it’s good to get that victory but they won’t compete with the Top 20 teams playing that way. But there is always the next game, to turn it around.
One of today’s writing prompts asked “Name the professional athletes you respect most and why.”
I’ve always had the upmost respect for Derek Jeter who’s retired from the New York Yankees. His professionalism, and the way he played the game and spoke highly of teammates and coaches. How he would play through pain and injury.
All the best athletes have this unique sense of dedication to the sport. They work the hardest and that is usually what separates them. But character is a big part of the picture and that’s why he was the captain.
My current favorite athlete is Aaron Judge also of the Yankees. The first captain of the team since Jeter. Again a man a character.
The best always make people around them better.
Other responses to this question are found here.
I read an article in the USA Today on MLB players fearing for their safety, because of threats from gamblers. Well, who didn’t see that train coming? One of just a host of problems facing all major sports now that they crawled into bed with the gambling companies.
We are only seeing the tip of the iceberg. I think one player was just suspended for life for gambling. I’m sure people have lost untold fortunes already. They can’t blame themselves for doing something stupid so obviously, it’s going to be directed at the team players, owners, and front office.
As the article implies, people aren’t cheering for the team. They are yelling for their bets on anything from a team win to if a play scratches his ass or not 3x or more.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Gambling will be the death of sports. And it appears to be moving quicker than I thought towards the end.
Hell, the players should sue the leagues for creating an unsafe workspace if you want my opinion. But they are also part of the get-rich-quick mentality.
So much for the history and integrity of the game. So much for teaching kids etiquette at a game. Looks like I lived in a time of great music, muscle cars, and pre-steroid sports.
The money and greed in this country out out of control. And we certainly have enough nut cases out there with guns that something senseless could happen in time.
I must be feeling better because I’m looking forward to the day ahead again. Not that I don’t every day but the last several have lacked the normal enthusiasm I normally have due to illness. It’s hard to hear the birds singing in the morning like today when you’re blowing your nose or coughing up crap and in pain.
I’m not 100% but better than the last several days so it’s time to start flying high again.
On the passing of Bill Walton
I was reading through some tributes to Bill Walton and came across ones from people I respect, and admire and who knew Bill. I enjoyed watching him play. I enjoyed his commentary and sometimes thought he would get off track during a game but it was always fun listening because you knew you were getting a special perspective and sometimes not just on basketball, but life.
From Kareem Abdul Jabar. “On the court, Bill was a fierce player, but off the court, he wasn’t happy unless he did everything he could to make everyone around him happy. He was the best of us.”
From Steve Kerr coach of the GSW’s. “His incredible energy, passion, love, and zest for life was never turned off.”
From Jay Bilas basketball commentator and former player – “Walton was about enjoying every minute of his existence, and making your existence around him meaningful and unforgettable. He was a free spirit, with endearing eccentricity. But deep down, he was about finding joy in others. Man, was Bill Walton fun.”
What a beautiful things to say about a friend. I will say thanks for the great effort in your game. Thanks for the entertaining commentary. I think I’ll put on some Grateful Dead this morning.
Random Thoughts of the Day
What Olympic sports do you enjoy watching the most? A good question to start the day from the Daily Writing prompt.
The Summer Olympics are coming up so I’ll concentrate on that and leave the winter sports for another day.
Being basketball is my favorite overall sport I’d say Hoops. The game’s rules are different which makes it interesting. The skill of players around the world has made it much more competitive.
The Athletic events ie: track and field stuff, are very close first just because of the volume of team and individual contests and drama, because many are so close. These events will constitute a majority of my watching time.
Cycling, gymnastics, and volleyball would be next. I’ll catch some swimming and water polo events also.
I have to admit I like watching Ping-Pong a bit. I used to play a lot when younger and was fairly good. But these players are on another level.
I used to enjoy boxing when I was younger. I will catch a few rounds, but not much more.
I’m sure I’ll watch some others along the way. I love the Olympic competitions and athletes. Young and old working hard for a dream. Hopefully fairly, but not always, unfortunately.
This will be the first Olympics in about 6 decades that I won’t be working and miss many things or have to catch them on highlights. This one I can watch anything I want because I have the time and desire. I’m going to feel like that young kid who sat watching them in the 60s listening to the legendary voice of Jim McKay.
I’m hoping for a safe, exciting, and wonderful event in Paris this year. The world could use some positive energy.
I was outside doing a few things yesterday, I hadn’t done in a while. Some vigorous yard work has left me a bit tight in the legs. That steep hill in the back will tighten up the calves and hamstrings quickly. My back is also talking to me but I feel a little better after some time on the treadmill.
Thankfully the rain started early and is supposed to rain through the afternoon today. That means that 25 bags of mulch that were delivered yesterday won’t be going down this weekend. Sometimes Mother Nature comes through in the clutch.
Sports – Hoops
The March Madness round of 64 is done and we are down to 32 teams. I was lucky this year and so far have picked 25 of 32 games correctly. I believe I heard earlier that there are no perfect brackets left in this year’s men’s tournament.
I’ve enjoyed watching it this year. There have been a few more upsets in the first round this year vs last year. It is a bit strange this year without Greg Gumble and Jim Nance doing announcing and commentary.
Most of the best teams survived easily in the first round and dominated. No #1 or #2 seeds lost. But today and tomorrow some big names are going to get big challenges and the number of shattered dreams will be large on Monday morning.
This win-or-go-home on such a big stage, in such a condensed format brings so much drama. And on top of that, you’re dealing with the emotions of very young men who have put in a level of dedication that few their age know and in 40 minutes it suddenly is over.
I can’t wait to watch the action today and tomorrow. I will not miss a game. Even when another activity overlaps I’ll go tape delay on that game and watch it at the end of the day.
I was so tired last night the late game watched me in the recliner. Hey, it’s no easy task to watch 24 hours of basketball in 2 days.
It’s strange not to have the team I love to follow (Maryland) in the Dance. But I love this sport and will watch it with great interest.
Attention Basketball Officials: When did carrying the ball become LEGAL? One of the best players in our group said he tried to do it but couldn’t because it’s so ingrained in us that it would be called in a heartbeat when we played. To suspend the ball or put your hand under it while dribbling is ILLEGAL. Basketball at every level needs to correct this now because it isn’t right.
Sports – Baseball
Well, opening day is this coming Thursday for Major League Baseball. I’m looking forward to the season for a few reasons. I live outside Baltimore and the Orioles had a great resurgence. They even finished first in what might be the best division in baseball from top to bottom.
It’s great that it will be so competitive with the Yankees again this year and all the banter back and forth with friends will be restored where both teams are fighting for the top spot instead of only one or neither. So it will be fierce.
I loved how MLB sped the game up last year and made it much more watchable. I’m looking to follow it more closely than I have in the previous decade or two because I have the time now.
Random Thoughts of the Day
My weekend starts today. It’s packed with activities and commitments and time with family and friends. What could be better.
And after many hours of basketball watching we will be down to the Sweet 16 on Sunday night. Brackets will be busted. I will be tired as hell. I may have put on a few pounds. I probably only post 2x a day between now and Sunday and they may be shorter than my normal rants.
Hey, I got a few vices left and watching March Madness is one of them.
Like many, my brackets are filled out. It used to be people would just do one. And it was just for fun when I started doing them. Then pools started at the jobs or in families. Then some started doing more than one as gambling became more associated with it. The term “Bracket of Integrity” was born to show your friends if you were betting head to head.
The tournament is still a great thing. College sports on the other hand is in trouble. Not that the Pro’s aren’t headed for issues also. Gambling will be one of the many death blows of sports. Players, refs or team officials or owners are going to get CAUGHT. And when they do it’s going to blow the trust, like there is any in the world of gambling to begin with. The only rule is greed.
The transfer portal on top of the one and dones are killing College sports. It may have killed it in it’s first few years. And of course money. The days of a group of 18 year olds entering college together and winning a national championship 4 years later together like the 2002 Maryland Terps are HISTORY.
The days of your favorite superstars like a Cal Ripkin or Derek Jeter staying with the team they started with are pretty much in the past. Yes it still happens but its the exception now to what used to be more of a rule.
It’s BULLSHIT and it’s causing me to not enjoy what is a GAME. Well it used to be a game, now its big business. All of it. Way down deep into high schools and even middle schools I bet.
I haven’t even touched some of the other sports that are dead to me. Gold for instance. I’ll never watch another stroke on TV. I might play it once in a great while but no more. NASCAR is another. When they got away from production cars years ago I lost some interest and when Earnharts left it I was out.
Pro Football keeps doing things to lose me and the emphasis on gambling has me watching much less.
I still enjoy the game itself. But what some do to make it something else diminishes it. Sorry, I didn’t mean to do a long rant on sports. It’s just that something so beautiful has been so tarnished.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Charles “Lefty” Driesell passed away today and that has a lot of Maryland Basketball fans with heavy hearts. Lefty put Maryland Basketball on the map and made it a National Power. He was intense, exciting, animated, and a winner at many institutions.
I loved his famous foot stomp on the sidelines when things weren’t going right. Or coming out of the tunnel before the games with the double V for Victory salute with both hands to the crowd which would go wild about him.
He could get Cole Field House rocking like no other. I first attended a game the year before he became a coach and I’ve been going ever since. I watch Maryland basketball religiously because of him. I can still remember his first big victory over South Carolina.
I hope they fill the stadium today and that the moment of silence is followed with a giant roar of thanks to the legendary coach.
Articles about Lefty
This was the first Super Bowl I’ve watched from start to finish in the last decade. Working Sunday nights for those years kind of made it just another thing I was missing out on. It was a competitive game so it was fun to see from kickoff to the end of overtime.
I had just turned 9 in the photo above, we never got to watch a Super Bowl together because he passed just a month before the first one was played. I’m glad I got to watch a few with my son.
Another milestone also in the form of a holiday Monday next week. If a holiday fell on a Monday we were working. Also the Sunday night before the long holiday weekend. I was kind of giddy being off New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. And then off for MLK Day and now Presidents Day.
I find myself smiling and rested on a Monday now instead of exhausted. I look forward to holiday weekends knowing I’m available and can be at events with family and friends.
Random Thoughts of the Day
What are your favorite sports to watch and play? Asks the Bloganuary writing prompt today.
I played a lot of baseball when I was really young. In my teens though I migrated to basketball and that has been my favorite for decades and is for both watching and playing. A hoop in my driveway, the ball in the closet by the front door ready for a nice day. March Madness is like hoop heaven. The University of Maryland are the team I support.
Basketball with its constant motion, running in so many directions, jumping constantly, diving on the floor and the physical aspects. Mentally it also takes a special discipline. Soccer is the only other sport that has the motion and that doesn’t have enough scoring for me.
Major League baseball made some significant rule changes that really sped up the game which it needed and made viewing much more enjoyable. I find myself watching less and less football. I used to enjoy some of the sports talk shows but no more. Too much emphasis on the gambling/point spreads/over under and whatever else they can think of to bet on.
I enjoy watching a lot of different sports BUT, gambling is on its way to ruining sports. Not that the NCAA didn’t get a jump on the pros by screwing up college athletics first. As usual greed and power will kill a good thing.
I think I’ll check out some local little leagues or local courts where the players play for the love of the game.
With the wind blowing like crazy the last few days and more to come I thought this was the appropriate shot to use today. Hang onto your hat and bundle up. It’s no summer, spring or fall day outside.
Even though I’m tired I’m not going to waste this evening. Being I don’t have Peacock I won’t need to spend hours watching football this evening. All the better. At first I was upset but hey if pro and college sports want to move their stuff to pay per view or streaming go right ahead.
I guess they aren’t worried about things like losing fans or merchandise sales. Got to have the TV revenue though. Go for it boys.
Random Thoughts of the Day
Well, the weekend flew by and I’m figuring today will be no exception to that rule so I’m starting this early in the hope of having time to do something of substance between the chores and working for the man tonight. I’ve written some of my feelings about sports and me. And below that the countdown to retirement. And of course some Random Thoughts.
Sports and Me
Sports is losing its appeal to me. Greedy owners, gambling, and some athletes’ attitudes and choices/examples all conspire to make it a less enjoyable experience. Not to mention the very wild interpretation of officiating from time to time. Don’t get me wrong, there are a ton of quality people in sports for the right reasons. Most athletes do some wonderful things for those less fortunate and some set a great example of human beings.
But what had been standards for decades have fallen apart. My example is college sports and conferences. What once were great rivalries and regional sources of pride are all gone. Add that to college athletes moving from school to school year to year is like watching pro teams that change the pieces more than they stay the same.
Gone are the days when college kids committed to a University, developed as players and people, and stayed the 4 years. I think back to the National Championship team of Maryland in 2001-2002. 3 of the starters were seniors, 1 junior and one sophomore rounded out the starting lineup. The first 4 guys off the bench were all seniors or juniors. In other words, EXPERIENCE – 4 players from that team went to the Pro’s.
Now if you see talent they are going pro in the first year or two. A lot of them are busts in that move. And then if you stick in college for a year or two you go to a better opportunity or more visible one at another school.
But let’s move on to something that my perception of has changed greatly. Pro and College Football are modern-day gladiators, leaving pieces of themselves in arenas around the country. Strength Speed and Techniques have changed the dynamic. The game hasn’t changed, the bodies within the field have. The 6-foot 180 lb lineman has been replaced by the 6’5″ 310+ lb behemoth of a man. Most kickers are bigger than most past position players. And fast, so fast that many still stare in awe each week at bursts of speeds by various players.
I hate to say this, but it’s only a matter of time before someone isn’t revived on a nationally televised broadcast. Then there is the brain. As someone who has had several concussions, I worry greatly about my future and the mental effects of them. I understand the love of a game no matter what it is. I also know that they are smart enough to be worried about those effects and some are probably thinking about playing fewer years.
It’s not just greedy owners or players. Fans have also changed. Passion has been replaced by fanaticism. Mix in some booze and gambling and loss of a normal perspective and you have some dangerous situations when you mix two opposing teams.
Worrying about point spreads or the over/under or parlays or whatever gambling terms I’m not familiar with, change the way fans view, act, and react at games. We have already seen several examples of fans being upset at a player who didn’t score enough for their bet. This was true for the local Washington basketball team in this article earlier this year.
Sports also changed from the common man to the elitist perk. Going to any major college or pro sporting event is something the common man has to think about the money involved. But corporations and the well-to-do buy-up seats like I pour gravy over stuffing later this week. And if you find seats in the upper areas they still want the arm, leg, and firstborn to attend.
The NCAA has been a failure. I love the change Major League Baseball made to speed up the game this past year and it has increased my viewing and interest. To me, baseball hasn’t forgotten the fans as much as other sports.
Sports is big business, just like gambling is big business. Now that they have merged it’s all money.
I will always enjoy playing any sport. I will always enjoy watching a sport be it the kids in the local little league, my Maryland Terps basketball team, the Yankees and Orioles going head to head, or maybe a Green Bay Packers game with my son someday.
I just feel bad for the youth because they don’t have my perspective on what I feel is being lost in modern sports. The true meaning of the joy of competition. I bet if people put in more time on their jumper, they would have a lot more fun instead of their faces in a smartphone making bets.
Countdown
About 3-4 years ago I started a little countdown. I had grown frustrated with the direction in our area and to keep my focus and still have a goal I could look forward to I started counting down the weeks till retirement. Little post-it notes that I would keep a countdown till what I thought would be my retirement date. Week by week I’d tick off a number. It was my little reward at the end of each week for working hard regardless of the circumstances around me.
Well, about 2 1/2 years ago I was fortunate enough to be able to work from home for the remainder of my career. I can’t tell you how that has made the last of my work time much more pleasant. Having to commute to the middle of Washington DC isn’t a good experience. And after doing that drive for over two decades of almost a hundred-mile round trip it was such a load off my personal life that the job was OK again.
I lost track of the number of weeks. That was till a few weeks ago when the company decided that date for me. A bit earlier than I thought but I’m fine with it now. Things are working out and I will be off for the New Year holiday instead of working. And I’ll be off all future holidays if all goes well and every other day for that matter.
But the weeks are down now to a single-digit number. And that is a good feeling indeed.
There are a few people I will miss. Ones I’ve shared many years, trials, and experiences with. Many have retired before me that I have missed a long time. Of course, I will miss the action. If I didn’t enjoy the chaos and pressures of working in the daily publishing business I would have left it decades ago.
I will miss the news cycle and seeing information and images come in before they are published. I will miss keeping up with technology. I will miss the smell of ink and paper when I go to the plant. I will miss the activity and electricity on election nights. I will miss being part of The Miracle on 15th Street.
Which leads me to a sudden realization. I didn’t start out with this plan. I worked hard for many opportunities and had others come along. I’ve worked in many capacities within my industry and learned many wonderful things. I’ve been blessed working with a lot of very good people along the way. Yeah, some assholes also, but luckily they were far outnumbered by good people. I like to laugh and found a great number of people who also liked humor. You had to have humor in high-stress environments.
And as I enter the final weeks I’m glad I made the decisions along the way I did. Were they always the right ones? I did pass a few management opportunities. Also some other technical ones. Only the ones I did make count and I’m very happy with the work I’ve done along the way.
I’m so glad that the relationships along the way have remained so strong and active. And that is a blessing. I hope others can feel fulfilled in their jobs when they reach the end of them. Especially my own children.
Random Thoughts of the Day
I measure success by lots of small things as I’ve gotten older. I could look at very productive days in the past and think I failed because I didn’t complete some list, for many years. Spent a lot of useless time beating myself up and in turn maybe even doing less.
Today success will be felt in many ways. From my work here to the yardwork and maybe polishing my ride. Talking to my kids and friends, maybe finishing a book.
I was looking at another example of success last night. And it got me thinking about sports and what is success in that business. For sports are no longer a game. It’s an event that is measured in bets and wagers on runs, winners, how many errors, and whatever anyone can think of to bet on. Oh, they play games, the fans like me come and cheer.
It’s an event to be seen at or do your selfies at. But for plenty of fans, it’s an out-of-reach event. Tickets, parking, and concessions will gut you quicker than a slaughterhouse. The player salaries and the owner’s wants are making this kind of thing a much more selective choice. I’ll continue to go to the University of Maryland basketball games but pro sports and the cost associated with it has gone beyond what I think is reasonable.
All this focus on the betting aspect makes me wonder what kind of lessons we are teaching our kids. Many still love the game for what it is, a game. And I’m guessing most who play it, play it for the enjoyment of the game and being a professional. To be part of a team, to do something special with and against your peers.
But the money has really altered the experience. Just look at all the arrangements between teams and betting organizations. The list at the top is by the team and the bottom by leagues and all their ties by SportsHandle and their partnership tracker.
Don’t let the above make you think I don’t still enjoy “The Game.” Because I do very much and always will because I’ll remember it as I grew up with it. I mean who sits out a 2-hour and 30-minute rain delay and then stays just about the entire game? A person who loves a good game. Remarkable efforts, drama of natural form, and the crowd getting more and more into each play as it’s 0-0 through 8 innings.
Unfortunately, my Yankees fell to the O’s again 1-0 in the bottom of the ninth. But in the rain delay before the game started, the Governor of Maryland appeared in the Orioles jersey below.
So today was a success for many reasons. The main one is a family member who really needed a boost and got a big one today. I managed to get some work done in the heat and we had a nice dinner tonight which I’ll extoll the virtues of tomorrow. I lost track of time watching the Yankees/O’s tonight which looks to be a much more favorable result for me than last night.
Random Thoughts of the Day
All things are possible. It’s just a matter of putting your mind to it. For instance, I’m a coke addict. The beverage that is. Been drinking so many of them a day for so many years if they were to plant me I’d probably sprout as a sugar cane stalk. I’m finally making a concerted effort on reducing the number of them per day to one or two.
Maybe I should just go cold turkey on them like I did when I quit smoking. Unlike cigarettes, those things won’t kill you in moderation. So I’ll stick with the plan. I’m substituting iced tea and water instead of that 16 oz Coke each time I hit the fridge.
All I know is I’m applying my mind to it and the reduction is working. It’s about making conscious decisions.
Sports Commentary
This is just the tip of the iceberg
I read a story today in the New York Post on a local player on the Wizards Bradley Beal. My guess is this kind of stuff has already been happening and this is just the first recognized incident of fans blaming gambling losses on players and cursing them out after the game because they lost money and making it personal with the player that he has cost them money and is deserving of being treated like Sh*T. I really loved Bradley Beal’s response to the fan and even if he did knock the cap off his head the fan deserved worse and should be removed from the arena for future games.
I knew this crap was coming. The next thing is it’s going to escalate to physical threats and attacks. People aren’t rooting for their team, they root for their gambling money. And when it gets into serious funds and people’s inability to control their own gambling you can be talking about life and death.
So be prepared for this and much worse in the future. Unfortunately, this frustration of gambling losses probably extends into their homes and workplaces.
Ravens and Lamar
Interesting watching the saga of the Ravens and Lamar playing out. My take – it’s the outcome that has been brewing since the start. Rookie quarterbacks who come in and set the world on fire with an organization don’t get paid what they are worth for contributions. By the time they reach the end of that contract, you have a huge gap and all that dedication to the team from a player’s perspective should be compensated. You have done everything they asked for and more. And you’re taking the risk with your own body. Owners and coaches don’t step on the field and get hit like that.
Then you have fair market value. Well, the owners made their own bed by driving up salaries and guarantees. And one guy makes a mistake in Cleveland and fairly the top players say this is the new market value.
It would be my opinion the owners said either to themselves or collectively said we can’t do this and are trying to reestablish the new value for top-tier quarterbacks. And forget that and just look at how the Ravens are run. They are not afraid to let go of established players in their primes. They keep a cycle of good young players, a mix of a few veterans and a few scattered stars they get at a bargain and sometimes pay handsomely while they are here but there is always churning. And the way the league is set up with salary caps teams decides on the balance of superstars or distributed talent.
Kansas City won last year with a ton of rookies who stepped in with established pros and a superstar quarterback. As those very talented rookies continue to develop can they afford to pay everyone in a few years? Nope.
What I can’t figure out is the Jets and Rodgers. Why wouldn’t the Jets want a QB who is over a decade younger and in the same class of talent?
As far as Lamar, I understand if he feels like he hasn’t been treated fairly. But it’s the same lesson we all learn. While the competition on the field might be fair, running those NFL businesses the goal isn’t fairness, it’s who keeps the most money and management holds a lot of the strings.
I think it’s a matter of Lamar wanting maybe just a little (and I mean little) more than his going rate and that the Ravens aren’t coming up with their best offer because they aren’t going to change their stripes in how they run the organization.
Baseball Season
I’m excited about the start of the season Thursday. I think some of these rule changes will help the game from a fan’s perspective. I’ll give baseball one thing. They get the All-Star game right. Every player is giving their best. There is a home-field advantage for the winning team in the World Series. NBA and NFL should just skip their All-Star events, they are nothing more than a poor exhibition.
As I used the hear the little league ump yell. PLAY BALL
Random Thoughts of the Day
I’m betting it’s going to be another great tournament. So much parity anyone can beat anyone. Drama, friends, food, fun, and then around 12:30 or 1 am when that last game of 16 on the first day comes to an end, I will sleep very sound and rise again for the next day’s Madness.
Also, I mean, that you bet like crazy this year on the Madness and some are going to lose their shirts. For me, it’s the time of year that I play an office pool. Maybe 10 or 20 dollars max. I see more is being bet legally this year than illegally. Or so says some news poll. How does anyone know what the illegal bet really is? I’m guessing what remains of organized crime isn’t really giving the Government its books just for comparison.
I enjoy college basketball, my favorite sport, and my favorite team in all of sports. But March is what makes it unique along with a short season. Regular season games have more importance along the way. The tournament is a win-a-game and advance, or go home, so there is a much more heightened drama and importance of each contest.
It’s played by young people roughly the same age and experience levels. Fans are more into it than pro sports. There is more parity in these contests than in pro sports. The coverage of the month of March is incredible and catches the pure emotion of the players, coaches, and fans.
It’s also a time of year my best friends gather and we put on some grand spreads together with day/night long parties. So to all those watching all the Conference Tournaments this week and getting ready for the Big Dance, it’s time to turn it up.
Go TERPS
Random Thoughts of the Day
Adrenalin pumping, the ball is thrown straight up in the air, two men/women leap and tip to a teammate. And were off.
Jump, tip, pass, pass, pass, dribble, shoot.
Retreat, lock eyes to your competitor’s torso.
Deny, prevent, deflect, remove them from paint.
Back and forth, score, turnover, rebound, assist.
You’re tired, someone fouls, substitutes.
Coaches yelling, whistles blowing, timeout, pep band plays.
The ball deflected out of bounds, the call is made, people go insane
Back and forth, fresh bodies come in and out.
Cut to a TV timeout, Dicky V is cancer-free video (you know its coming)
Action quickens, decisions rushed, tensions build, stamina tested.
Game clock ticks, shot clock ticks, cheerleaders, and fan’s emotions peak.
The crowd counts down, everyone is standing, the shot, the net flinches.
Players jump and pump fists in the air, at the same time men on all fours, head in hands.
Parents cry in joy and in sadness at the same time.
Alumni going nuts, coaches shaking hands, cheerleaders crying.
Players embrace each other in glorious victory.
Other players hugged in support of giving their all and coming up short together.
Some with long looks in their eyes knowing their college days have come to an end
Freshmen think the Dance/Madness will be every year before they know the difficulty of repeating.
Post-game interviews, highlights, and commentary by your play-by-play team.
Coaches in closed locker rooms both telling their guys how proud they are regardless of winning and losing.
Friends and family leave the stands, the next team’s supporters enter.
And it begins again. One by one they go down. Each game, every game, Till ONE.
ONE SHINING MOMENT.
Yes, I know it pales in comparison to the real-life and death taking place in the world. But when things were normal, you can’t get more drama than March Madness.
Random Thoughts of the Day
A wonderful day to get outside. I apologize in advance for today’s rant. See what happens when I don’t get enough sleep. Anyway, the first thing I see today is the news about MLB canceling what looks to be the first week of the regular season and I guess that means all of the spring training.
Support your little leagues
Instead of going to Major League Baseball games (oh you can’t anyway) why not check out your local ballfields. I bet you will find the concession stands a lot more reasonable. You will see people enjoying the game and cheering for their team much harder than at The Yard. You will see the players enjoying a GAME and respecting the GAME and playing by the RULES of the GAME. You won’t have owners treating their employees like crap and disrespecting them in order to get richer yet. You will have the best seat you ever had for a ballgame. The seat won’t be cramped (bring your own chair or blanket, we do not cover grass stains). You can easily catch a foul ball or chase one through the parking lot. Yeah, you might lose a windshield once in a lifetime at these events but you will have the souvenir of the baseball still in it as opposed to your car stolen or vandalized downtown. Plus next week you can walk up and have the kid sign the ball.
The level of play might not be the best but you will see the same effort. The same joy of victory and agony of defeat and maybe even more pronounced than you have ever seen at the major leagues. As Its players learn about life and the ups and downs for the first time.
You are less likely to get in a fight or be trampled over by others fighting. The chances of having a beer spilled on you are pretty nill. The walk to the parking lot to your seat is easy even if you are an old man. It’s likely you might see someone from your neighborhood or community or maybe better yet someone you knew when you were younger and their kids are on the field.
MLB is proof in life that a few can F it up for everyone. I’m pissed, yeah that is right because I like the game. I liked playing it. I liked coaching it. I like watching it. I like going to it. I like my team and follow it. And now I can’t, AGAIN.
And people wonder why there are unions around. It’s because greedy people do exist. Greedy people do get in power. Greedy people know no bounds. Greedy people don’t care if it collapses.
What bothers me also is how unfair this is to someone who lived and grew up next door to me. His father and he were out at a very early age with a baseball and uniform and practicing all the time. He played little league, he played high school, he played college and got drafted, he played in the minors for a few seasons and last year he caught on and played for the Baltimore Orioles his home team. He is being robbed of his lifelong passion and dream. He is missing opportunities on the field in his prime. He is missing out on the earnings he has worked hard for. He is being shown the sometimes ugly realities of how people run businesses.
Well, the only way I’m going back to a stadium is if the owners are willing to meet me at the gate and allow me to bitch slap then each without pressing charges and then be verbally abused for about an hour or so like they have never been before and not like this easy stuff above. And while I’m doing that arrange to have their spouses donate 95% of their wealth to charities because the only thing they have pain from is losing money.
So many innocent people was what I was going to say next. But maybe we all are at fault. The money we spend to allow them to get so arrogant. The false worship of humans who make the same mistakes many of us in society make. Showing our children unbalanced importance on a GAME. I remember coaching and teaching players how to deal with disappointment was always made harder by parents. Not all of them but a lot of them. Winning isn’t everything and some people believe it is. Yes, it’s the object of the game. But if you did your best, left it all on the field, your teammates did the same. Your coaches encouraged and improve your game. You experienced the excitement of playing the game. I’ve had that, I’ve felt great about it. And I’ve lost and still maintained a love and passion for the GAME. And I learned lessons from losing, that winning doesn’t teach you. And you don’t win at everything in life.
Yes, it’s that time of year for the mother load. A basketball junkie’s dream. More bounces of the ball than the eye can keep up with. One and done. You lose you go home. Tension to the max every game. Kids’ dreams being realized. And at the same time, huge fan bases crushed.
And as I rose this morning I was distressed to see the usual crap that ruins a great contest like this. Overzealous people losing complete perspective and sending these young athletes crushing messages and threats. And when I say Overzealous I mean F’ing idiots who should serve jail time for making threats like that. So, way to go Ohio State fan, you have shown what the problem is for a lot of Universities who haven’t sent the right message to their fan base that that is unacceptable behavior.
Remember people, “IT’S JUST A GAME”. Come on, I’m a huge college basketball fan. Been going to Maryland games since the mid-’60s. I live and die with this team each year. But I think we need to start standing up to these people when we see and hear them. Or report them if we see social media comments that are threatening or wrong or mean-spirited.
College sports are a wonderful thing. A fairly closely matched age group. Young men and women learning new teammates and systems and competing at the highest level of skill while getting paid NOTHING for the pleasure of doing a sport they love. Yeah I know some of you will question the “play for nothing” and you are right in some cases but it’s still the closest thing you can get to a highly competitive game with great skill in a group that isn’t professional. And the way tournaments are done the drama can’t be matched.
Like yesterday when we said this game is over, it’s going to take a miracle for Va Tech to win. Down by 3 with 7 seconds left and the other team shooting 2 free throws to ice the game. I then said it’s going to take 3 miracles for this to happen. I said he is going to have to miss both free throws and then they have to hit a game tying 3 pointer, to send it to overtime. And then they flashed what the player shot for the season at Free Throws 52% and we all had a head tilt. And then he missed the first. And then he missed the second. And Va Tech rebounds gets down the court and swisch, tie game and OT. And I was wrong also. They needed 4 miracles, because they lost in OT. But talk about your excitement.
Random Thoughts of the Day
After I saw some comments to the player that was targeted I saw a reply from a speech by former president Teddy Roosevelt, I had never read but its fitting.
“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”
Our friends had to cancel out of dinner plans this evening due to one of them being under the weather. But I’m still going to be hungry as well as my other half so a meal out sometime today is still in the plans. Not really planning on the Oysters in the photo but some type of seafood I think is going to tickle my palate.
Right time, right place. Bethany Oyster House.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Didn’t know which photo to use so I put them both here. The bloody marry and bottle of Tabasco are good but the oysters didn’t pop like the one above.
Breakfast of Champions
Photo by Mike Hartley
Never developed a taste for the raw oysters but fried or stew or Rockefeller I’m in. My best friend and his wife said these were great. We were at the Bethany Oyster House this past summer for a wonderful lunch. I’ve got to work more on my food photography this coming year. I enjoy it for some reason, oh yeah I LOVE to EAT. So maybe I’ll get a start today with some shots of our dinner if I think of it. That is the key to doing more. Thinking and acting.
Seasonal Thought
Shopping, not my bag but out I go. Should be fairly easy, got a plan and list. And my better half takes care of most of the family stuff. I do some things also but she gets credit for the success of our holidays. We both decorate but she really makes it look great. I do some lights and the tree’s, but the rest she does. And she does a good bit. Kind of reminds me of how special my parents would make the home with seasonal items and decorations.
So as the preparations come to a head for the holiday weekends, I hope you all are able to appreciate the company of family and friends. Only one more week to get through and then I’m on vacation. HELL YEAH.
Thoughts on Craig Sager passing
Traits I admire. Courage and perseverance. So it left me with a heavy heart Thursday evening to learn of Craig Sager passing. I’m a big basketball junkie and TNT really does the best work in the pro’s so I saw a lot of him. Genuine person is what you would feel through the camera.
In watching the tributes this past evening it was touching in many ways. It was fitting and ironic that he passed on a Thursday night with TNT having a double-header. Because you could see how far and many friendships he had fostered. You kind of thought this person would be the sharing type but then you hear the specific stories of him helping and sharing all his experience and knowledge is a special trait. One of the main things wrong with business now is that people don’t share, its to competitive. But I’ve tried to do the same in my career. I don’t use knowledge as power, I give away freely of what I know. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not blowing my own horn, it doesn’t take all that long to share the experience I have professionally. But I’m also always learning so the well never runs dry.
But that was just one things he seemed to bring to his work family. It sounded like he also gave very wise career advice to some of the successful people who worked with him. Craig sounded like the whole package because was the person always glad to see you and greet you with a smile. And it was genuine because you see it in the people talking about it, that felt it. Another behavior I admire.
The quality of the people he impressed as a person is impressive indeed. But that fight to the end was something to behold. And his speech at the ESPY’s getting the Jimmy V award was something impressive. A quote from him follows:
“Time is something that cannot be bought, it cannot be wagered with God, and it is not in endless supply. Time is simply how you live your life.”
And that for some reason has stuck with me and made me a better person. Because no matter what, I’m glad of the gift of another day, another chance to love and be loved. To create and converse. To smile, laugh and cry. To live.
Only those over 55 can really appreciate the times and meanings of The Greatest. For his actions both in and out of the ring during the 60’s and 70’s and beyond were something to behold. Far from popular with a lot of people. But loved by many. And as time went on loved by all. For he embodied the athlete many would aspire to become but also became a man who changed the world.
Back when the sport of Boxing was more popular than Football. Well for those of you not from the US (NFL Football). Ali was the KING. You could sense many special things about this man.
He was someone you had to watch and listen to even if you didn’t like him. I did like him for the most part and respected his beliefs but he could still say things that would rub me wrong. But when looking back after time you understand. I was looking at some of his famous quotes in a USA Today article with his 30 famous quotes.
Things like “It’s hard to be humble when you’re as great as I am.” said when a man is young are hard to understand. But if you take his history and legacy now it’s within context. And it probably was true in his day. He saw no equal in the ring and few outside it.
He would get into people’s heads with words and sometimes you could see other fighters already doubting before the first punch was thrown. How can Ali saying “If you even dream of beating me you’d better wake up and apologize.” not get into someone mind? Or another one of my favorites “How tall are you? So I can know in advance how far to step back when you fall down!” And yet another one that would scare most mortals. “I’m so mean, I make medicine sick.”
He had worldly insights and said things to make everyone think. “Hating people because of their color is wrong. And it doesn’t matter which color does the hating. It’s just plain wrong.”
He had wise advice for all humans. “Live everyday as if it were your last because someday you’re going to be right.” Or this one, “Don’t count the days; make the days count.” And maybe the best one of all for each of us. “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.” And one of my favorites, “Friendship is the hardest thing in the world to explain. It’s not something you learn in school. But if you haven’t learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven’t learned anything.”
Controversial things like the following quote which in retrospect is probably accurate. “I’m the most recognized and loved man who ever lived cuz there weren’t no satellites when Jesus and Moses were around, so people far away in the villages didn’t know about them.”
Then things like this that you kind of always suspected about the man behind the mouth. “At home I am a nice guy: but I don’t want the world to know. Humble people, I’ve found, don’t get very far.”
So a wish for his final journey that he float like a butterfly to a comfortable place. “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. His hands can’t hit what his eyes can’t see. Now you see me, now you don’t. George thinks he will, but I know he won’t.” Well we all saw you Ali and it was magical.
For he was da Greatest who said – “I am the greatest, I said that even before I knew I was.”
He carried the sport of boxing to great heights, not seen in many decades. He was a unifying figure late in life when so much had been stripped from him. Recognized the world over. For if you live like this, your being true to yourself. And his last quote about being stripped of his title and license to fight over refusing the draft into the Vietnam war, “They did what they thought was right, and I did what I thought was right.”
Ali seemed to always be speaking the truth.
A few years back a best friend took up golf. As is his way he focused, attacked, learned, shared, practiced, refined, adjusted for age, practiced, upgraded, practiced, learned, upgraded and practiced some more till he became a fairly good golfer in short order. But to me and to most people I see playing the game its a love hate relationship thing. Much more so, than other individual sports I see.
It’s Eyeballing me. It’s challenging me.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Nothing like getting out in nature on some wonderful course without phones and the chores and work though. The first time or two he took me to play it was a wonderfully relaxing experience. One that I could see being very attractive. That was for every second I wasn’t swinging a club. Yeah I can hit a good shot or two. This body and mind (hand/eye) coordination isn’t completely without skill.
But talk about an exercise in frustration. You can hit a nice drive and be on top of the world in the middle of the fairway, and then in the woods 25 yards behind the green and your cursing the day you were born. Then you just about chip one in from the sand trap. Your up again and you step up to the tee. Pay no attention to that water hazard. You have a serious talk with the ball that is about to go swimming that your going to hit it straight and sound. But the lord of the underworld has the key medical knowledge that your back is subject to shooting pains. And he knows just how to encourage you to hit it just a little harder than you planned and there it goes, it’s looking, NOOOOOOOO go RIGHT. NOOOOOO. SPLASH. Then the back spasm hits you as you twist in pain. But your oblivious to it except for having difficulty teeing up the next ball because you know you didn’t just hit the first one in the water.
So you figure the ball and club didn’t hear your orders for avoiding the water hazard so you turn up the volume as you hear your friend laughing in the background and yelling “Lay up”. What the hell does lay up mean? Am I supposed to swing from my hammock? Actually that isn’t true at all. He helps me every step of the way from body position, club selection, course and hole details and of course swing. I bet if I played with him half as much as he actually plays, I’d get half decent at the game.
He has been encouraging myself and two other best friends to get out this spring and we all go for it. I’m hoping it happens actually, just for the fun and laughs it will provide. A pretty good way to spend 4-5 hours of a day with your best friends. Actually gives you time to actually talk. In between the cursing of losing the first box of balls you just purchased at the Pro Shop.
So I’m going to try to hit the driving range and see if this body can make it through a bucket of balls and maybe a little putting green and if I come home and can make it through the night I’m going to scheduled a round with the “Master.” And that is fitting being its Masters weekend in Augusta Georgia.
Don’t worry, I don’t have the money to be a true golf nut. But I will enjoy the game and some friendships it helps enhance. Here’s to best friends.
Addictions can be an interesting thing. I can’t tear myself away from these games. I’ve gone through 4 sets of batteries in the remote the last 4 days flipping around to catch every second possible. The team is plotting to have more TV’s in one area so we don’t have to flip around next year. Checks for your brackets only take place about as often as a second-hand on a clock does one rotation. Ops, showed my age there. Anyway about every 60 seconds for our younger readers.
I turn the TV up loud while I’m in the shower. Meals are planned around finishes and starts of certain games. Watching the scorecard at the top of the screen to make sure your not missing a closer game. Waiting for the next comical thing Sir Charles does or says. Feeling the tension increase as every second of the clock ticks off.
Teams never seem to be out of the game. Well most of them. And then there is the case of the GIANT Slayers. They are many, they are feeling that high, they are playing to the best of their abilities and winning. They step in the ring as lightweights and throw heavyweight punches.
The shots of the fans celebrating and crying through victory and defeat. The parents hugging or dancing in their children’s success or pain. The coaches with the emotion of really developing relationships and respecting their players individual dedication and effort as well as how they jell as a team to reach even higher.
Buzzer beaters and buzzer denied. Young men collapsing on the floor. And if you just saw a photo only you might not know if they had won or lost because the emotion can be so great either way. Cheerleaders, team colors throughout the stands, assistant coaches excited as head coaches on the sidelines.
Spending 12 hours straight with close friends after spending hundreds of $$ in Wegmans for supplies so we don’t have to move till its time we have to sleep. Well there is the grilling also and the local beverage store is always glad to see some of the crew park and enter that Thursday morning.
So many more games Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The tension grows and spreads quickly. The Sweet 16 is on the line. For if you make it through the weekend your team is in special company. The media will have days to scrutinize you and your dance partner and follow-up contestants. Celebrity status will be cast on many. People will speak of who wants to wear a slipper.
Crowds will go nuts. Technical fouls will fly. Boo’s of officials and endless conversations about calls will go on for months for some fans and teams. Replays are all over the internet and sport talk shows for days. Campus’s will take on new life and excitement. Talk of where to put the trophy will start
So now were down to 16. And Maryland is one of them. I see they are given little chance against Kansas. No problem, I will be watching every second with my heart in my throat, yelling at every call and hopefully jumping in joy at the upset and making plans for the next game on Saturday with the boys. I’ve watched this team for 5 decades now with great interest and support. It is the one common thread all of my friends have. We are all Terps fans. Some of us follow different baseball or football or pro basketball teams. But college its TERPS and TERPS only. And when we get on a roll its good times and celebrations like non other. Plus I’ll get a bonus this year, for I only did one pool this year and I’ve got the Terps to win it all.
It seems like it just gets better year after year. What a game, what a tournament.
Nothing like having time to pursue ones interest. And my interest this month is College Basketball, my favorite sport. Yeah the money and TV and the one and done’s have changed the game dramatically. The number of guys who play their whole college career is a rarity these days. But it’s still the most exciting and even and real sport, set up in a playoff format that just breads tension and drama.
The cold of winter is about to be scorched by March Madness.
Photo by Mike Hartley
So as I looked up at my frozen net the other day I knew the warm temps were only a short time away. As well as the conference tourneys and then Selection Sunday and let the Madness begin. And so this week with the temps hitting the 60’s and 70’s in the northeast, I’ll look for my basketball and hope the air pressure is good because I can’t remember where I put the needle for the air pump last.
Every dribble I take, I feel young again. Well not when I try to do some of the moves I might have had in the day, but you know what I mean. I love basketball but the pro game while exciting and performed at a higher skill level than college, doesn’t have the emotion. That is youth. That is young guys the same age focused on a goal while going to school and hopefully not being highly paid yet.
They haven’t had to endure the grind of a 82 game regular season. They haven’t had 6-7 weeks of playoffs. They are in a zone they will never experience again. It’s a chance for small schools with the same age kids to upset the powers and elite of the sport. And a decent chance at that. For its one and done time.
Just like the street, you lose, you sit. But unlike the street you don’t get the second chance till next year, if you lucky. All I know is I love watching the game. And this spring and summer I’m going to try to rediscover the love of playing the game. I think it will do both my physical self good but also mentally it might be the biggest gift.
And now with the last regular season game only about 8 hours away, the troops gathering for the victory and sendoff to the conference and then the Big Dance, I hope it’s a great March again on the tube. Oh yeah, the finals are actually in April. What the hell. Maybe next year I’ll do some traveling and catch a Big Dance game live.
But in the mean time — GO TERPS —
Go TERPS
Photo by Mike Hartley
OK, my favorite sport is College Basketball hands down. And my favorite team always has been the Maryland Terrapins or just TERPS. Started out going to a few games when I was 11 or 12 years old. My first memory is a player called Will Hetzel and the way he could score. I believe Lefty (Charles Driesell) came the next year and proclaimed he was going to make the University of Maryland the UCLA of the East.
The left-hander
Photo by Mike Hartley
I loved it, bravado right out of the gate. And why not set your goals high. I was addicted right from the start. That win in 1971 (the slow down game) that was televised and went into overtime and Maryland had upset the #2 school in the country. I watched on a small B&W set. I was so pumped after that game I couldn’t sleep. The excitement the basketball program generates is a special thing.
Cole Field House was a special place. I enjoyed many a game there and continue to go to a few games a year at the Comcast Center and religiously watch every televised game even if I have to record them. I got my son and his fiance tickets to the Indiana game this year and they loved it. So I hope the family tradition I started carries on for years with my family following Da TERPS.
This year has been a special one. After a missing the NCAA’s the last 4-5 years, we are in and in a big way with a nice mix of a key senior and junior and some exceptional freshman. I believe 4-5 players transferred after last year and I’m glad they did because the chemistry this group has is kind of special and it has come from the start. The only thing I’ve seen close to it is Kentucky and its abundance of talent blend together for the good of the team.
One thing for sure. This coming Monday will either be a day where my friends and I are very upbeat and looking forward to the coming weekend with a spring in our step and another party in the planning or one where a half hearted effort will be made to watch a few more games and the finals but it won’t be near the same excitement or interest.
I love all basketball but College is special. That time where young men develop and learn some great lessons. Most are taught tough lessons of how to handle defeat. Most are taught how to perform under pressure. Most are marking the end of a career and leaving something dear to them. It’s where you see family in the stands living and dying with every possession. And even the most stoic fathers have a lean or teeth clench or small expression that can be seen. And then there are the things that can’t be duplicated in any other time. A father coaching a son like with Georgia St. And even though their run is over, you can see and feel the happiness of that family.
So many thanks to a special team and a special year for all the fans who follow this team year after year.
Oh, and before I get negligent here, lets not forget the Maryland Women. They have a legit chance at a title themselves for a National Championship being a #1 seed this year. It’s a big day for the University of Maryland athletics.
Go TERPS
So on the coldest day in ages I share the following warm weather Post. In honor of the new class for the Baseball Hall of Fame, images that long for the words PLAY BALL!
I think its only 40 days till spring training. At least so says “THE CLOCK“. But before I go on, I have to say that a trip to Cooperstown in my youth was a great day. I suggest it for any baseball geek. The induction weekend must be a real event. I might have to add that to the bucket list. Maybe when Jeter goes in. Of course that will be a mob scene.
The University of Maryland basketball season will kick off with Midnight Madness on Oct 17, 2014 at 8pm. This being the first season in the Big 10 means some old games won’t be on the calendar. Some tee shirts with specific team references like my bright read “Beat DUKE” won’t be needed.
It’s very hard for me to accept this move. I loved the traditions and rivals in the ACC. Even though the deck seemed stacked for anyone to win but us from time to time over the history, we still overcame and were one of the top schools in the conference. Not to mention a original member of the ACC. While I understand the move for financial reasons, it just struck me as sad. And really the ACC was no longer the old ACC anyway, given all the changes, it is still hard to change to another conference and start over.
Just like it was hard to change, when they closed Cole Field house and opened the Comcast Center. You know the students come and go. Allot faster than they used to but that is part of the cycle. This isn’t a cycle. This is taking the train off the track and putting it on a boat. Not really worried that we can’t compete in the Big 10 or that we won’t be one of the top schools at all levels. It’s that tradition is broken.
But as I think about it even the tradition of Midnight Madness is broken. For when I went to the first one and many that followed they used to be say what time??? Maybe MIDNIGHT. Yeah I know most older people didn’t like that time. But that is what it was for, the kids. Now it’s another marketing gig and entertainment extravaganza.
I will stick with College Basketball as my favorite sport though. I love the crowds energy. I like that the players still look at it as a game (even though that is changing also). I like that its a wonderfully exciting playoff system. And while the pro’s play the game at another level, there is something special about watching young adults start to come into their own with abilities and leadership and courage. And strength when faced with adversity.
Good bye ACC, hello Big10
So for the last time for a while I echo the sentiment on this SUV’s license plate….. “DOOKSUX”
MD vs Duke no more
Photo by Mike Hartley
I was invited to a Aberdeen Ironbirds game at Ripkin Stadium this past weekend. It was a family thing, my Son in-law had gotten my Son tickets for his birthday. 6 of them so they invited the family and it was a wonderful event and more importantly a wonderful family time.
Scoreboard at night
Photo by Mike Hartley
For some reason there is something special about these small ballparks. This was my first visit to this ballpark (Ripken Stadium) and it didn’t disappoint at all. The concessions were OK, the facilities were real nice and the baseball was baseball. Not your major league cal-abler but I enjoy the game at all levels. In some ways it’s more exciting to see some prospect at this level then it is at the higher ones. And a good play or home run at any level is exciting as hell. I’ve been out to see the Frederick Keys a few times and that is a great spot to catch a game also. I hear Bowie also does it up right with the Baysox. I’ll have to spring for that one next year.
Pre-game stretch
Photo by Mike Hartley
When you go to these games you are at a game. Not at an elevation that makes your nose bleed. Your basically in box seats no mater where you site unless your in a box which is closer also. You also have a few dollars in your pocket as you walk in the front gate because it doesn’t cost to PARK. I think they said attendance was 5,300 for the 6,300 seat stadium.
It’s not the size of the fan its the size of the spirit in the fan.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Baseball is a game to be enjoyed at every level. I recall many fond days watching my kids play and even helping manage some teams. I remember covering ballgames for my local paper. I’ve made many reproductions of peoples sons and daughters. I loved playing the game when I was young.I love the human spirit that comes out.
Now there is a creative way to get a child to use a toothbrush.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Now there is an interesting date.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Rita’s satisfies.
Photo by Mike Hartley
I can’t believe your going to eat that DAD.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Catching a ballgame is like sitting on the boardwalk watching people go but but everyone is seated. It’s where kids are allowed to be kids. It’s where adults sometimes turn into kids. But one that that I have noticed at these small ballparks is that you don’t have adults turning into assholes because too much beer is consumed. To me that has been one of the reasons I’ve enjoyed the professional level less in recent years.
It was MEANS to an end because the Ironbirds won 5-2.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Oh yeah, just to make it special they had a very good fireworks display after the game. I would estimate it lasted a good 20+ minutes. Very cool indeed.
Fireworks over center field.
Photo by Mike Hartley
Seems like a lot of guys on the field.
Photo by Mike Hartley
So get off the couch and go visit a real game that doesn’t cost you and arm and a leg to attend. I think you’ll be a happy camper after the experience.