Donnie Webb of syracuse.com, who does a great job by the way. has the odds of the Las Vegas odds makers for the season opener August 30th against Northwestern and I doubt Orange fans will be thrilled with this news. After that awful season last year and the low expectations coming into this season, Northwestern is a 12-point favorite to win the game, according to vegasinsider.com. So just how confident are we as Orange nation to start this season with a win? Enough to call up Vegas odds makers and place some money on that point spread? Don't look at me, I am laid off and every dollar counts plus until they can prove something to me, I am not betting one cent on this team and trust me, I would love nothing better then to see them win and give us confidence again in this program. Good luck Orange but just so you know, Vegas doesn't think you have a chance to even be competitive. Post it on your walls or whatever you need to get you up for the challenge but here is to hoping you can pull it out.
Also if you interested, check out The Orange Squeeze for other odds in Big east football action for their openers. AEM has the odds for you to read and I am not going to steal his work so go into my bloggin links and check it out yourself.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Best Week Of Baseball, Maybe Ever
For those of you who haven't read my Costas rant and even those who have, I have to admit that it was simply icing on the topping of a great week of baseball for me(despite the Phillies trading for Blanton from Oakland). The Mets are up to 10 in a row now, the Costas special was a classic, the all star weekend was very entertaining and tonight I got to go to an Intimidators game, sometimes life is just too good. As I also wrote earlier this week, going out to support minor league baseball is such an enjoyable experience that I think many don't understand how much they are missing out on.
Tonight was Guys Night Out/Thirsty Thursday/Favorite Jersey Night(and yes,I broke out the SU #44 football jersey). I went with my father in law and we enjoyed every inning we saw, despite having to leave at the end of the 10th because he has to wake up and leave for work about 4am but hey, he stuck it out until well after 10pm so I can't get mad at that. Minor league baseball is the best value for your dollar and the one thing I wish I had season tickets for because I would go to every game possible. The Intimidators can cost as little as $4 a ticket and sometimes even less then that for certain promotions like Friday games that you present your Time Warner bill, you get a dollar off EACH ticket. I hear often how expensive it is taking a family out for a fun time can be but to me, this is the one event that you can afford it. Sure, sometimes the food costs are a bit high but eat some dinner before hand and then maybe all you need are some peanuts or something(I usually get a Dew and a Dog which is about $5). People knock it by saying it's not major league talent but these guys mostly play hard for little money and you can still have fun tracking these players, especially when one makes it to the show and you can brag about when you saw him play. I highly encourage you to check out a minor league game in your area soon before the season is over.
As far as the major league all star weekend, whether your talking about the marathon game itself or the spectacular home run derby showing of Josh Hamilton,that say what you want about his personal background, the guy put on a home run clinic, was enjoyable to all. Would I make some minor changes? Sure such as making it on the weekend for the workers who can't stay up until 1am waiting for it to finish or using all star pitchers in the derby and finding ways to emphasize how important it is that the top stars represent the league in all games possible such as the derby itself. I remember back to when I was a kid and ESPN would show episodes of the classic television show "Home Run Derby" and how awesome it was seeing Mickey Mantle and Herman Killabrew just crush them and return the next episode to defend their title. But regardless of that, it was still a great weekend to be a baseball fan, especially since we didn't have to see J.D. Drew and David Wright pitching in the 16Th inning. Anytime you can see a showcase of the best pitchers in the league facing legitimately the best lineup possible in the league, the purists have to be excited at the anticipation of what can possibly happen.
And yes, as I started to doubt the Mets, Coach Manuel then gets this team into what is now a 10 game winning streak and tied for 1st in the NL East. Sure, as I mentioned above, the Phillies are loading up fearing the Mets won't just collapse this time around. What this means is an epic second half to see who can thrive and hopefully not repeat one of the worst falls from grace in baseball history that the Mets made last year. Just knowing that they are not still playing under .500 ball has to make a fan at least somewhat optimistic that maybe this will be the year we advance in the playoffs, or at least make it there. Of course, that Cubs team scares me but I also should not be admitting that just in case my Uncle Nick reads this and that ego of his busts out of his head(hey, he did name his kid after Ryne Sandberg, middle name anyway).
Again, its just a good time to be a baseball fan period, especially if your favorite major league team is in the playoff hunt. If not, try out minor league baseball and support the future superstars of MLB. I admit that when I can't make it to the park,I love to stream the games into my headphones and follow along. I also have the Mets box score nearby if they are playing so I can see what they are doing as well(I am too broke to pay for the mlb.com feed but that's OK,Dan Bumpus does an excellent job for the Intimidators anyway). Usually, I am only this excited when spring training has finished and opening day is approaching but what can I say, it's been a great week. Ignore the steroid issue that some idiots(executives who turned a blind eye are included as well in the idiot category) and think about the fun you can have rooting for a team and hey, how many basketball games do you get a chance to catch a ball that goes out of bounce, baseball there is always a chance for a souvenir. You can take me out to the ball game every day and yes, the peanuts and cracker jacks are always waiting for you there. Have I mentioned how much I love this game?
Tonight was Guys Night Out/Thirsty Thursday/Favorite Jersey Night(and yes,I broke out the SU #44 football jersey). I went with my father in law and we enjoyed every inning we saw, despite having to leave at the end of the 10th because he has to wake up and leave for work about 4am but hey, he stuck it out until well after 10pm so I can't get mad at that. Minor league baseball is the best value for your dollar and the one thing I wish I had season tickets for because I would go to every game possible. The Intimidators can cost as little as $4 a ticket and sometimes even less then that for certain promotions like Friday games that you present your Time Warner bill, you get a dollar off EACH ticket. I hear often how expensive it is taking a family out for a fun time can be but to me, this is the one event that you can afford it. Sure, sometimes the food costs are a bit high but eat some dinner before hand and then maybe all you need are some peanuts or something(I usually get a Dew and a Dog which is about $5). People knock it by saying it's not major league talent but these guys mostly play hard for little money and you can still have fun tracking these players, especially when one makes it to the show and you can brag about when you saw him play. I highly encourage you to check out a minor league game in your area soon before the season is over.
As far as the major league all star weekend, whether your talking about the marathon game itself or the spectacular home run derby showing of Josh Hamilton,that say what you want about his personal background, the guy put on a home run clinic, was enjoyable to all. Would I make some minor changes? Sure such as making it on the weekend for the workers who can't stay up until 1am waiting for it to finish or using all star pitchers in the derby and finding ways to emphasize how important it is that the top stars represent the league in all games possible such as the derby itself. I remember back to when I was a kid and ESPN would show episodes of the classic television show "Home Run Derby" and how awesome it was seeing Mickey Mantle and Herman Killabrew just crush them and return the next episode to defend their title. But regardless of that, it was still a great weekend to be a baseball fan, especially since we didn't have to see J.D. Drew and David Wright pitching in the 16Th inning. Anytime you can see a showcase of the best pitchers in the league facing legitimately the best lineup possible in the league, the purists have to be excited at the anticipation of what can possibly happen.
And yes, as I started to doubt the Mets, Coach Manuel then gets this team into what is now a 10 game winning streak and tied for 1st in the NL East. Sure, as I mentioned above, the Phillies are loading up fearing the Mets won't just collapse this time around. What this means is an epic second half to see who can thrive and hopefully not repeat one of the worst falls from grace in baseball history that the Mets made last year. Just knowing that they are not still playing under .500 ball has to make a fan at least somewhat optimistic that maybe this will be the year we advance in the playoffs, or at least make it there. Of course, that Cubs team scares me but I also should not be admitting that just in case my Uncle Nick reads this and that ego of his busts out of his head(hey, he did name his kid after Ryne Sandberg, middle name anyway).
Again, its just a good time to be a baseball fan period, especially if your favorite major league team is in the playoff hunt. If not, try out minor league baseball and support the future superstars of MLB. I admit that when I can't make it to the park,I love to stream the games into my headphones and follow along. I also have the Mets box score nearby if they are playing so I can see what they are doing as well(I am too broke to pay for the mlb.com feed but that's OK,Dan Bumpus does an excellent job for the Intimidators anyway). Usually, I am only this excited when spring training has finished and opening day is approaching but what can I say, it's been a great week. Ignore the steroid issue that some idiots(executives who turned a blind eye are included as well in the idiot category) and think about the fun you can have rooting for a team and hey, how many basketball games do you get a chance to catch a ball that goes out of bounce, baseball there is always a chance for a souvenir. You can take me out to the ball game every day and yes, the peanuts and cracker jacks are always waiting for you there. Have I mentioned how much I love this game?
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Costas Now Hits Home Run
I will admit up front that I missed most of the show but I have it scheduled to DVR on the west coast replay feed of HBO but the Willie Mays/Hank Aaron portion of tonight's Costas Now reminds me of why I love baseball. Seeing these two guys and the players in the audience and their banter makes me feel like a 10 year old kid again who found a sport he loved and played for the enjoyment of the game. It also reminded me of a time when personalities shined and you loved the big names in the sport. Bare with me as I tell you why when you finish reading this, you should check your local listings for the next showing.
I am typing this as I listen to the overtime session online and honestly, I don't want it to end. I am sitting here and I love hearing these stories and remembering them as someone other then their ties to Barry Bonds, but the great players and people they were on the field. Hearing their love of the game and the camaraderie they had verses who someone slept with off the field or stories of how little innings one can possibly manage leaves me awestruck. Willie's mention of playing 9 innings in 11 all star games alone is a stat I think many in the major leagues today need to remember,players and executives and appreciate that. There weren't 30 teams with the top player of each team representing or ESPN showing highlights every night of the top plays, it was the pureness of the game when people played with heart and passion and showed it and you heard the plays or heard about the players from forklore. I am not knocking all current players because I know many have these same strong emotions toward the game but anymore it has become more of a business then the kid's game we all loved playing and watching the greatest excel at.
I must say also that I LOVE the new Costas Now format and I hope they maintain this for years to come with the town hall format and numerous, informative views on the topic in question. Going an hour and a half and then some on major topics that need to be discussed is more crucial then trying to fit in as many as he can into one hour. I know and anyone who knows Bob Costas by listening to him knows he has a great passion for sports and whether you agree with him or not, he can get top name guests and get to the point in discussion that sometimes need no holds barred comments. Axe discussed how important to the discussion of blogs and sports talk that episode of Costas Now was and I have to say that for those who love the game, this show as well may prove to be just as monumental. Again, this is having not watched all of it but I was supposed to meet the wife in bed an hour ago and right now, I want to stay away another hour or so and watch it from the beginning, despite having it programmed on the DVR already.
Baseball is this, its as its best when its at its simplest and purest. Hank Aaron and Willie Mays(and yes, if you want him on your baseball Mount Rushmore and I left him off, I will not argue that one bit and can understand taking Cal off for him but him only) are great examples of not only great players but ambassadors of the game. They didn't trash current athletes, they didn't act as though they were bigger then the game and they didn't blame the owners for all the wrongs in the game. These two men discussed at length how much they loved playing against each other, against others and that competitive drive that made them thrive. I am 35 years old with bad knees and right now, I want so bad to pick up my glove and go play baseball somewhere again because it made me realize what I miss about the game I love. Confident in their abilities but humbled to the game and its history and those who played it as well.
If you like baseball casually or love it, someone you know loves it or you just simply want to see why people care so much about the game many once considered the past time and not say it's time has past, watch this current episode of Costas Now on HBO. Watch these guys speak from their heart and realize these are not only guys who pioneered the game of baseball but changed culture as many saw it at the time. Listen to them speak about a time when many wished for their demise not just on a professional level but were filled with hatred racially that these men persevered through with dignity and class that maybe some of our current players and fans should recognize and consider when they had a bad day. Thank you Bob Costas for an outstanding program and thank you Willie and Hank for the memories tonight of a time in my life when as a kid, I dreamt to be like you and had fun trying, though obviously I didn't have a tenth of the ability, grace and desire you possessed. Anyone care to join me for a game of catch?
I am typing this as I listen to the overtime session online and honestly, I don't want it to end. I am sitting here and I love hearing these stories and remembering them as someone other then their ties to Barry Bonds, but the great players and people they were on the field. Hearing their love of the game and the camaraderie they had verses who someone slept with off the field or stories of how little innings one can possibly manage leaves me awestruck. Willie's mention of playing 9 innings in 11 all star games alone is a stat I think many in the major leagues today need to remember,players and executives and appreciate that. There weren't 30 teams with the top player of each team representing or ESPN showing highlights every night of the top plays, it was the pureness of the game when people played with heart and passion and showed it and you heard the plays or heard about the players from forklore. I am not knocking all current players because I know many have these same strong emotions toward the game but anymore it has become more of a business then the kid's game we all loved playing and watching the greatest excel at.
I must say also that I LOVE the new Costas Now format and I hope they maintain this for years to come with the town hall format and numerous, informative views on the topic in question. Going an hour and a half and then some on major topics that need to be discussed is more crucial then trying to fit in as many as he can into one hour. I know and anyone who knows Bob Costas by listening to him knows he has a great passion for sports and whether you agree with him or not, he can get top name guests and get to the point in discussion that sometimes need no holds barred comments. Axe discussed how important to the discussion of blogs and sports talk that episode of Costas Now was and I have to say that for those who love the game, this show as well may prove to be just as monumental. Again, this is having not watched all of it but I was supposed to meet the wife in bed an hour ago and right now, I want to stay away another hour or so and watch it from the beginning, despite having it programmed on the DVR already.
Baseball is this, its as its best when its at its simplest and purest. Hank Aaron and Willie Mays(and yes, if you want him on your baseball Mount Rushmore and I left him off, I will not argue that one bit and can understand taking Cal off for him but him only) are great examples of not only great players but ambassadors of the game. They didn't trash current athletes, they didn't act as though they were bigger then the game and they didn't blame the owners for all the wrongs in the game. These two men discussed at length how much they loved playing against each other, against others and that competitive drive that made them thrive. I am 35 years old with bad knees and right now, I want so bad to pick up my glove and go play baseball somewhere again because it made me realize what I miss about the game I love. Confident in their abilities but humbled to the game and its history and those who played it as well.
If you like baseball casually or love it, someone you know loves it or you just simply want to see why people care so much about the game many once considered the past time and not say it's time has past, watch this current episode of Costas Now on HBO. Watch these guys speak from their heart and realize these are not only guys who pioneered the game of baseball but changed culture as many saw it at the time. Listen to them speak about a time when many wished for their demise not just on a professional level but were filled with hatred racially that these men persevered through with dignity and class that maybe some of our current players and fans should recognize and consider when they had a bad day. Thank you Bob Costas for an outstanding program and thank you Willie and Hank for the memories tonight of a time in my life when as a kid, I dreamt to be like you and had fun trying, though obviously I didn't have a tenth of the ability, grace and desire you possessed. Anyone care to join me for a game of catch?
Orange Trivia Answer is....
Kubota tractors. I was researching them since my son loves tractors so much and I think they are also a sponsor of either Syracuse University or at least the SUAthletics website. I tend to lean towards John Deere but the orange of it all is too spectacular to pass on. I was going to wait until later in the day but anyone wanting to still guess, sorry, I just wanted to put it up before I forget or get busy. See you next week with another edition of Orange Trivia, and yes, you would be shocked at how many things orange I can find. Go Orange.
Pictures Of Smackdown/ECW, Spoilers Included
Click below if you want to see Charlotte.com's pictures from the taping in Charlotte last night which appears, though I have yet to read the results and did not attend last night, to reveal a couple results and I am sure WWE will love that.
http://www.charlotte.com/multimedia/galleries/gallery/714941-a714977-t3.html
http://www.charlotte.com/multimedia/galleries/gallery/714941-a714977-t3.html
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Former Orange QB Donovan McNabb Update
This may have been reported elsewhere since he posted it two days ago and I missed it, sorry if I did, but I found this blog entry from Donovan McNabb himself on http://www.yardbarker.com/ . His entry titled, "A View of Philly Sports", discusses just that, his take on the Sixers signing Elton Brand, the Phillies recent play, Arena league entry Philadephia Soul as well as former Eagle Vai Sikahema's beating of "Mr. Juice" Jose Canseco.
He finishes the entry letting the reader know he is in Arizona training with Brian Dawkins preparing for training camp with more teammates expected soon. He also leaves us with this quote which hopefully gives Eagles fans some hope, "I'm felling great, the shoulder is fine and I can't wait to get started this season." As a man who always takes Steve Smith and McNabb as my two top draft picks in fantasy football (running backs are for wimps with no risking bone in their body), I am hoping he will be healthy even though as of right now, I am not signed up for any fantasy leagues. Here is the link below if you wish to read the entry for myself whether you don't trust me or want to see what he thinks about the Philly sports scene.
http://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/A_View_of_Philly_Sports/289765
He finishes the entry letting the reader know he is in Arizona training with Brian Dawkins preparing for training camp with more teammates expected soon. He also leaves us with this quote which hopefully gives Eagles fans some hope, "I'm felling great, the shoulder is fine and I can't wait to get started this season." As a man who always takes Steve Smith and McNabb as my two top draft picks in fantasy football (running backs are for wimps with no risking bone in their body), I am hoping he will be healthy even though as of right now, I am not signed up for any fantasy leagues. Here is the link below if you wish to read the entry for myself whether you don't trust me or want to see what he thinks about the Philly sports scene.
http://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/A_View_of_Philly_Sports/289765
Big Show Interview
For my wrestling fans, Big Show was in Charlotte promoting the ECW/Smackdown tapings tonight and you can listen to one of the interviews at http://www.wfnz.com/ by scrolling down to the Mac Attack show podcast either on the main page or clicking on podcasts in general. T-Bone, yes the guy who was my first interview, actually surprise show host Mac with 10 minutes noticed before Show walked in for a taped interview that I think lasted about 20 minutes(I heard it as it was aired and no positive on the time limit, sorry). I think its a fun interview to listen to that whether your a wrestling fan or not is light hearted and every one who knows him, knows Big Show is a very entertaining interview. Check it out.
Also, just found this interview checking local radio stations as Big Show also appeared on the morning show for 96.1 The Beat. Some similarities to the http://www.wfnz.com/ interview except this one includes Big Show's take on the Hogan family issues. You can check it out at http://www.charlottesbeat.com/main.html and its listed on the main page.
Also, just found this interview checking local radio stations as Big Show also appeared on the morning show for 96.1 The Beat. Some similarities to the http://www.wfnz.com/ interview except this one includes Big Show's take on the Hogan family issues. You can check it out at http://www.charlottesbeat.com/main.html and its listed on the main page.
Another Edition Of Orange Trivia
Welcome back to another round of Orange Trivia which those of you who have read this before know its not a Syracuse Orange question but about something else orange. This one is for my son Mick as I know he loves these. So here is the question and again, if you have any guesses, feel free to add them to the comment section and if the computer doesn't crash again, I will post the answer tomorrow.
This item was first introduced to the United States in 1969 but the company was actually first established in Osaka, Japan in 1890. They do have a North American based manufacturing plant in Gainesville, Georgia and because, according to their website, it was an overnight success in this market. What orange item am I refering to and my redneck friends, you better know this one because some of you probably own one of their products?
This item was first introduced to the United States in 1969 but the company was actually first established in Osaka, Japan in 1890. They do have a North American based manufacturing plant in Gainesville, Georgia and because, according to their website, it was an overnight success in this market. What orange item am I refering to and my redneck friends, you better know this one because some of you probably own one of their products?
Donte Signs and Scores Big
Trish Lamonte at syracuse.com is reporting that Donte Greene scored 40 points in his summer league game last night to help the Houston Rockets win 100-97 over the Phoenix Suns. She is also confirming a report from Jonathan Feigen on the Houston Chronicle website that states that 5 minute prior to the game, Donte signed a multi year contract though no terms were specificied other then it being a standard rookie deal. I am sure he is disappointed his stock dropped at the draft but if he can perform at a high level, he will earn more later down the line. I hope Donte takes this development as a sort of chip on his shoulder to prove to those GM's who passed on him why his potential could be now with the right coach and system and works hard and contributes when asked to. I wish him the best of luck in the NBA and congrats on the 40 points which if I remember correctly, I think Trish stated was only 2 short of a summer league record. Go Orange!
Here is the link for those interested in seeing the original report from Trish and links to the Chronicle article as well.
http://www.syracuse.com/today/index.ssf/2008/07/greene_scores_40_in_nba_summer.html
Here is the link for those interested in seeing the original report from Trish and links to the Chronicle article as well.
http://www.syracuse.com/today/index.ssf/2008/07/greene_scores_40_in_nba_summer.html
Monday, July 14, 2008
Orange Lacrosse Gets New Commitment
Click the link below to read this article that Trish Lamonte from Syracuse.com reports which states that Joe Lombardi with the Journal News says former Ohio State University recruit has changed his verbal commitment from them to the Syracuse Orange as OSU's head coach left their program to coach at UNC. This is exactly why national championships and the rich history of this program benefit recruiting because instead of following the coach he wanted to play for, he instead opted out for the Orange. Go Orange!
http://www.syracuse.com/today/index.ssf/2008/07/allamerican_attackman_picks_su.html
http://www.syracuse.com/today/index.ssf/2008/07/allamerican_attackman_picks_su.html
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Sports Mount Rushmore
I was reading today where David Poole of the Charlotte Observer said that Richard Petty's face is, "stock-car's Rushmore". That gave me a thought and if you stuck around this long, may as well bare with me long enough to see where I am going with this. So just who is each sport's face for Mount Rushmore? I know things like this are subjective pending your viewpoint and statistics but I made a list of who I would choose in 9 different sports and so here is who I would pick for the top 4 faces for each of their sports. These are not in any particular order, just who I think best represents the sport. Not everything is statistically based but some will be while others are just people who have contributed greatly to the sport. Some were pioneers of the sport while others just excelled. If you disagree with my choices, feel free to prove me wrong and not only state who you think belongs but who I should remove and why.
- NASCAR: Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt Sr., Bobby Allison, Darrell Waltrip.
- MLB: Jackie Robinson, Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, Cal Ripken Jr.
- NFL: Walter Payton, Joe Namath, Bart Starr, Jim Brown
- NBA: Wilt Chamberlain, Oscar Robertson, Jerry West, Michael Jordan
- Golf: Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Babe Didrikson Zaharias, Bobby Jones
- Lacrosse: Jim Brown, Gary Gait, Paul Gait, Roy D. Simmons Jr.
- Pro Wrestling: Ric Flair, Lou Thesz, Antonio Inoki, Vince McMahon Jr.
- Tennis: Billy Jean King, John McEnroe, Martina Navratilova, Pete Sampras
- Hockey: Bobby Orr, Gordie Howe, Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux
These are not picked to stimulate conversation, these are the people I would honestly choose and I will break down a couple picks below that some may not agree with.
- Jim Brown made both NFL and lacrosse because he was one of the best to ever play both sports and had lacrosse been as popular as the NFL, I believe he may have played that. In fact, he was the top scorer when he played and is in both Hall Of Fames as well.
- Vince McMahon Jr is one that people will ask why he was picked instead of Hulk Hogan but I think if Vince doesn't expand and have the vision he had, Hulk Hogan would not be the name he is now. Sure, Hogan's character was great and transcended into pop culture but Vince saw his potential and gave him that chance. Plus, when you consider not only his ideas to expand beyond territories but explore pay per view and his ability to make stars, sorry but he has more in his favor then Hogan. Plus, if I put Hogan on here, do we then debate whether Steve Austin should be as well since he pioneered the "Attitude" era?
- Bobby Jones was picked because he was essentially what many consider Tiger to be today, a common man's player. He was the guy from a small town who people related to and rooted for. Do I think Tiger Woods could be a face of golf one day? Sure but his career is not over and it will take years to know if his legacy is still as strong as we believe it to be while Bobby Jones played many years ago and to this day is a top influence in the game.
- Roy D. Simmons Jr. was not only a top player in the sport who was second only to Jim Brown in scoring in 1957 but is the only coach who won 4 national lacrosse titles and only the second to do 3 of them consecutively during his tenure at Syracuse University. Sure, my lacrosse heads resemble all Orange but to me, all four belong and Roy's stats as a player and a coach to me speak volumes of his contributions to the sport.
- Cal Ripken Jr. may contradict what I said about Tiger and waiting for some years to test the true legacy but Cal's here because he is one of the greatest embassadors of the game of baseball, on and off the field. He played hard and wanted to play everyday and played at a level that allowed him this chance. He has records and a championship but he also is an example of what hard work can get you and he went to the park everyday with the mentality that he was going to play hard and earn his position. Again, Tiger resembles many of these attributes as well but putting an active person in here when we have yet to see how their legacy will be remembered in my opinion is too premature.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Kannapolis Intimidators Update
Hey baseball fans, I have realized that my other favorite baseball team has not seen any love in my blog yet. So how about updating people as to why you should continue to show your support for this team? You can check them out at their website http://www.kannapolisintimidators.com/ as well for more updates and listen to the games live with Orange grad Dan Bumpus providing the excellent play by play for us fans to enjoy as though we are there at the game.
I have some facts to show why this team needs your support, especially at the Cannon if your in Kannapolis, North Carolina or want to listen to the feed live on their website. For those of you unaware, the South Atlantic League playoff format is set up so that the winner of the first half of the season plays the winner of the second half. Needless to say, the Intimidators were still finding their groove and failed to win the first half so they will have to win the second to make the postseason. Right now, your Kannapolis Intimidators are in third place but only one game out of first place with Columbus leading and Augusta 1/2 back from Columbus. They are in Rome, Georgia in the midst of a four game series there and will return home on the 16th of July to start a four game set with Charleston and then four more with Savannah. If your considering attending those games, the promotions include Guys Night Out as well as Thirsty Thursday on July 17th, Baseball Cards and Baseball Giveaway Night(baseballs for the first 100 fans and cards for the first 1000 fans) on July 18th, Fireworks at the Cannon on the 19th and on the 21st for those of you on a tight budget or just like cheap food, how about .50 hot dogs all night long on the 21st. So see, good competitive baseball and some great promotions, can't beat that so go on out to the stadium and show some love for your Intimidators.
From a personal perspective, I will add that I have attended several games there and I always enjoy myself when I go. For anyone who stuck with this who doesn't live in Kannapolis or the surrounding area, support your local minor league team and I bet what you will find is that you enjoyed yourself and may become addicted to it like I am or check out Bumpus online at http://www.kannapolisintimidators.com/. I have sat in general admission and reserved seating all around the stadium and I loved both sides of the field, especially general admission so I can move around based on where the sun is at the time. Tickets are as low as $4 and as high as $7, except the suites but even those are not highly priced for what they normally would be if you got suites for some other sporting event. I will usually be there either sporting my Orange or my Intimidators gear when I can chugging a Dew and dog and probably as soon as the gates open so I can get my food before the lines and have time to check out the store as well. So come on, show some Intimidating love and support this team and the organization. Go Intimidators!
I have some facts to show why this team needs your support, especially at the Cannon if your in Kannapolis, North Carolina or want to listen to the feed live on their website. For those of you unaware, the South Atlantic League playoff format is set up so that the winner of the first half of the season plays the winner of the second half. Needless to say, the Intimidators were still finding their groove and failed to win the first half so they will have to win the second to make the postseason. Right now, your Kannapolis Intimidators are in third place but only one game out of first place with Columbus leading and Augusta 1/2 back from Columbus. They are in Rome, Georgia in the midst of a four game series there and will return home on the 16th of July to start a four game set with Charleston and then four more with Savannah. If your considering attending those games, the promotions include Guys Night Out as well as Thirsty Thursday on July 17th, Baseball Cards and Baseball Giveaway Night(baseballs for the first 100 fans and cards for the first 1000 fans) on July 18th, Fireworks at the Cannon on the 19th and on the 21st for those of you on a tight budget or just like cheap food, how about .50 hot dogs all night long on the 21st. So see, good competitive baseball and some great promotions, can't beat that so go on out to the stadium and show some love for your Intimidators.
From a personal perspective, I will add that I have attended several games there and I always enjoy myself when I go. For anyone who stuck with this who doesn't live in Kannapolis or the surrounding area, support your local minor league team and I bet what you will find is that you enjoyed yourself and may become addicted to it like I am or check out Bumpus online at http://www.kannapolisintimidators.com/. I have sat in general admission and reserved seating all around the stadium and I loved both sides of the field, especially general admission so I can move around based on where the sun is at the time. Tickets are as low as $4 and as high as $7, except the suites but even those are not highly priced for what they normally would be if you got suites for some other sporting event. I will usually be there either sporting my Orange or my Intimidators gear when I can chugging a Dew and dog and probably as soon as the gates open so I can get my food before the lines and have time to check out the store as well. So come on, show some Intimidating love and support this team and the organization. Go Intimidators!
Friday, July 11, 2008
Orange Trivia Answer is....
OK so while I figure this new computer out and why AOL won't load properly, here is the answer of the trivia question from the other day that Poncho has half of but I am sure this is exactly what he meant, the Nerf basketball which if you read below will tell you the history of it. Sorry about making you wait but when a hard drive crashes, it's a bit hard to get on and answer. And for the record, those new Nerfs are not my style, I love them old school where you can rip pieces of it for gripping and your own home court advantage haha.
Parker Brothers originally developed NERF, beginning with a four-inch (102 mm) polyurethane foam ball. In 1969, Reyn Guyer, a games inventor also responsible for Twister, came to the company with a volleyball game that was safe for indoor play. After studying the game carefully, Parker Brothers decided to eliminate everything but the foam ball. In 1970, the NERF ball was introduced as the "world's first official indoor ball". Marketed that one can "Throw it indoors; you can't damage lamps or break windows. You can't hurt babies or old people."[4] The ball filled a strong consumer need and by the year's end more than four million NERF balls had been sold.[5] The four-inch (102 mm) ball was followed closely by a large version called "Super NERF Ball". Shortly after, in 1972, a basketball game called "NERFoop" and the NERF football joined the family. The football quickly became the most popular NERF ball.
Parker Brothers originally developed NERF, beginning with a four-inch (102 mm) polyurethane foam ball. In 1969, Reyn Guyer, a games inventor also responsible for Twister, came to the company with a volleyball game that was safe for indoor play. After studying the game carefully, Parker Brothers decided to eliminate everything but the foam ball. In 1970, the NERF ball was introduced as the "world's first official indoor ball". Marketed that one can "Throw it indoors; you can't damage lamps or break windows. You can't hurt babies or old people."[4] The ball filled a strong consumer need and by the year's end more than four million NERF balls had been sold.[5] The four-inch (102 mm) ball was followed closely by a large version called "Super NERF Ball". Shortly after, in 1972, a basketball game called "NERFoop" and the NERF football joined the family. The football quickly became the most popular NERF ball.
Harddrive Crashed
For those of you not aware, my computer crashed the other day and I am trying to set up stuff on my new one. Please bare with me as I figure out how to do this stuff because some things are still being set up. I snuck on here for a bit just to get an update but it may take a day or two to post something new but I will post something when I am ready to get going again. Take care and thank you for your patience.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Orange Trivia But Not What You Think
OK so you probably think I am going to sit here and ask some trivia question about Syracuse that only the hardcore Orange fans would possibly know, am I correct? Umm, you know what, uh uh (loved Mad TV back in the day, sorry). Instead, Orange trivia will be a trivia question about something else orange for instance, tonight question pertains to a major childhood item from my past that I could not have lived without. So lets start, Orange Trivia.
According to Wikipedia, what orange item was first released in 1970 and said to be so soft, it would not hurt babies or old people? Hint, the classic version is no longer around or at least rare to find but the name is still popular in pop culture and the material has changed over the years though I miss that classic one more.
I will post the answer tomorrow for those of you who don't know but feel free to place your guess in the comment section if you want.
According to Wikipedia, what orange item was first released in 1970 and said to be so soft, it would not hurt babies or old people? Hint, the classic version is no longer around or at least rare to find but the name is still popular in pop culture and the material has changed over the years though I miss that classic one more.
I will post the answer tomorrow for those of you who don't know but feel free to place your guess in the comment section if you want.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
One More Orange Topic, Finally A Bright Spot Too
http://syracusesportsblog.blogspot.com/2008/07/jonny-flynn-dominating-wherever-he-goes.html
This is from the newest addition to my blog roster, Rockin The Loud House aka Syracuse Sports Blog about Orange guard Jonny Flynn at a Lebron James camp where he was excelling not only against top notch high school and other college players but also against NBA all stars Lebron and Chris Paul. If you read the piece, you will see that he not only is making a name for himself but was Paul's choice for most impressive at the camp. Finally, some optimistic news for the Syracuse program not associated with the lacrosse program. Those of you also looking for good news, I recommend you check this out.
This is from the newest addition to my blog roster, Rockin The Loud House aka Syracuse Sports Blog about Orange guard Jonny Flynn at a Lebron James camp where he was excelling not only against top notch high school and other college players but also against NBA all stars Lebron and Chris Paul. If you read the piece, you will see that he not only is making a name for himself but was Paul's choice for most impressive at the camp. Finally, some optimistic news for the Syracuse program not associated with the lacrosse program. Those of you also looking for good news, I recommend you check this out.
No Church For Mets Anytime Soon(Come On, You Know You Love Titles Like That)
http://sports.aol.com/fanhouse/2008/07/08/ryan-church-cannot-shake-his-concussion-heads-back-to-dl/
This news comes to us from AOL Fanhouse blogs about New York Mets outfielder Ryan Church who has been recovering from a concussion. According to this blog, there was a report on the granddaddy of sports talk radio WFAN stating Church is going back to the disabled list. I can tell you as someone who has suffered his share of them, when it comes to a concussion, you don't play around with it and sometimes the effects last a while. As a Panther fan, one only has to ask Dan Morgan or as a wrestling fan, well pick one of many who had their careers altered or cut short due to them, the brain is not something that bounces right back with therapy. I know some people like former WWE talent Chris Nowinski and others are trying to do research on the effects of them and I hope they can help us figure things out one day. Until then, I hope Ryan takes it easy and comes back when he is healthy and fully ready to play. Even though Alou is injured as well and I am sure the Mets would love to have him there, rushing it could cost this young man his career. However, the blog above lists possible options the Mets could consider in trading for to help fill the void out there. Honestly, I like all 4 names they listed, especially Matt Holliday who I thought had a great season last year with Colorado during their World Series run. Anyway Mets fans, this is how this season is playing out already anyway so are any of you genuinely surprised at this news? Thanks to Josh Alper for the article since I don't listen to WFAN much unless I am back in NY visiting family.
This news comes to us from AOL Fanhouse blogs about New York Mets outfielder Ryan Church who has been recovering from a concussion. According to this blog, there was a report on the granddaddy of sports talk radio WFAN stating Church is going back to the disabled list. I can tell you as someone who has suffered his share of them, when it comes to a concussion, you don't play around with it and sometimes the effects last a while. As a Panther fan, one only has to ask Dan Morgan or as a wrestling fan, well pick one of many who had their careers altered or cut short due to them, the brain is not something that bounces right back with therapy. I know some people like former WWE talent Chris Nowinski and others are trying to do research on the effects of them and I hope they can help us figure things out one day. Until then, I hope Ryan takes it easy and comes back when he is healthy and fully ready to play. Even though Alou is injured as well and I am sure the Mets would love to have him there, rushing it could cost this young man his career. However, the blog above lists possible options the Mets could consider in trading for to help fill the void out there. Honestly, I like all 4 names they listed, especially Matt Holliday who I thought had a great season last year with Colorado during their World Series run. Anyway Mets fans, this is how this season is playing out already anyway so are any of you genuinely surprised at this news? Thanks to Josh Alper for the article since I don't listen to WFAN much unless I am back in NY visiting family.
Other Orange Bloggin Stories
For those of you out there looking for some updates on former Orange Donte Greene, my buddy Troy Nunes Is An Absolute Magician has coverage of this article from the Houston Chronicle on whether he could be trade bait yet again this season.
http://nunesmagician.blogspot.com/2008/07/sorry-houston-hes-your-questionable.html
Also, for those of you looking for more negative setbacks for the Orange football team, The Daily Orange has an update on Mike Williams NOT being enrolled at OCC (Onondaga Community College) for this upcoming semester in the hopes of being academically eligible for next season using a very credible source, the school itself.
http://sports.dailyorange.com/?p=1073
http://nunesmagician.blogspot.com/2008/07/sorry-houston-hes-your-questionable.html
Also, for those of you looking for more negative setbacks for the Orange football team, The Daily Orange has an update on Mike Williams NOT being enrolled at OCC (Onondaga Community College) for this upcoming semester in the hopes of being academically eligible for next season using a very credible source, the school itself.
http://sports.dailyorange.com/?p=1073
Monday, July 7, 2008
12 Reasons Why......Matt Dagostino Is A Name To Remember
Normally, I would not post two interviews in back to back days, I prefer to space them out some. However, I just received this one and honestly, I think its not only interesting but makes a good read whether your an Orange fan, loves baseball or considering a job in sports broadcasting. As you will see, this 12 questions is with a man I personally met, like, and have a great amount of respect for his work as well. Last year, on my birthday, I was fortunate enough to call 3 innings of Intimidators action alongside him and witnessed first hand not only his passion for his job but all the hard work he puts into it. I asked Matt if he would do this knowing this is a busy time of year for him but also knew much like everything he does, he would put his best into it and provide some great responses, which he did. Take heed to my title and remember the name. Ladies and gentlemen, children of all ages, I present to you Matt Dagostino.
12 Reasons Why......Matt Dagostino Is A Name To Remember
1. For those who may not be familiar with you Matt as I am, give them a little insight into who you are and what you do?
I am a 2005 graduate of Syracuse University and have been a sports broadcaster since graduating. I spent three years doing play-by-play in minor league baseball, first with the Auburn Doubledays (Toronto Blue Jays) of the New York-Penn League, then with the Wilson Tobs (NC) of the Coastal Plain League (college summer league), then with the Kannapolis Intimidators (Chicago White Sox) of the South Atlantic League in 2007. After my year in Kannapolis, I took a job as a host on TBS Hot Corner, a live internet show affiliated with TBS and MLB.com during the 2007 MLB playoffs. I am currently a freelance broadcaster/production assistant with TBS/TNT.
2. Where did you go to school and how did you get your start in this business?
...always good to read all the questions before you dive into this sort of thing...ha ha.
As I prematurely mentioned above, I graduated from Syracuse University in 2005 with a major in broadcast journalism and a minor in coaching (yes, that actually is a minor). I grew up in upstate NY and rooted for SU sports teams. When it got time to decide where I wanted to go to school, I always liked playing/watching sports, but thought being a sports broadcaster was a pipe dream that was more a joke than anything else. But, my parents were the ones who convinced me to actually pursue it. Come to find out, SU has one of the top broadcasting programs in the country. Syracuse seemed like a perfect fit...and it was.
I got started in sports broadcasting with the Auburn Doubledays. Auburn is located about a half hour from Syracuse and has always been a "feeder team" for aspiring SU sports broadcasters. They routinely take SU students to be their broadcasters every year. One of my friends held the position the year before me, put in a good word for me, and I got the job in 2005.
3. What advice would you give someone looking to follow in your footsteps? Recommend any particular school or courses? Maybe something in an Orange? ha ha
For anyone looking to get into sports broadcasting, I hope you don't like money...
No, seriously...I love talking about sports. I can't imagine myself doing anything else (believe me, I've tried imagining what else I could do to earn a few extra bucks). If you love what you do, keep doing it. The pay in sports broadcasting is lousy in the beginning (I can attest to that) and the hours are ridiculous. But, at the end of the day my job was to show up to a baseball park and talk baseball for three hours a day. Not bad. Now, I get to work for a great company in TBS and get my feet wet with them as I hope to get more involved with them in the near future.
As for a school, I might have a slight bias towards the Orange. I would recommend Syracuse for anyone interested in the broadcast business, either in front of the camera or behind it. If you're interested in sports broadcasting, take the play-by-play elective (taught by SU play-by-play man, Matt Park) and the sports reporting class (taught by ESPN's Dave Ryan, an SU alum).
4. I know first hand you put a lot of prep work into your job so give us a sample of a work day for you for those who have not witnessed some of it first hand?
Yeah, like I said, the hours are ridiculous in minor league baseball. If we were at home, I'd usually stroll into the park between 8 am and 10 am. Usually, if you're the broadcaster, you're also involved in media relations. So, right away, I'd get started on putting together stat packs for the coaching staffs, the media, and the broadcasters. Then, I'd work on game notes for that day's game, which are used by the broadcasters and media and contain more stats and information than one person probably would ever need. After that, take care of any roster updates, make sure any box score corrections from last night are taken care of, etc.
After lunch, I usually took care of any odds and ends, like sales calls (minor league baseball is big on sales, even from broadcasters), any phone calls I had to return/make, and tie up loose ends.
Batting practice would start around 4:00, at which point I'd go down to the field and talk to the guys and watch BP, get lineups and distribute those to the teams and the press box, and then start prepping for the game. My score book is basically a bunch of barely legible numbers that only make sense to me. Without those numbers, though, I'd be lost during the game. Once my book is set to go with lineups, stats, story lines, etc., I'd go down to the clubhouse and do an interview. Then, game time rolls around and I get to do the one thing I love to do: talk baseball. When the post-game show is wrapped up, I print out box scores, deliver them to the clubhouses, write a press release, send it to the media and post it on the Internet. And, finally...I could call it a day. Usually, the day ends around 11 pm or midnight.
Wake up and do it all over again the next day.
When on the road, there wasn't quite as much responsibility, at which point I would gladly get a little more shut-eye in the morning.
5. I saw your online studio work for http://www.mlb.com/ on the TBS Hot Corner segments last postseason and was wondering, did you enjoy the experience or do you prefer more of a play by play at the stadium?
Both experiences are great. I wouldn't say I like one more than the other, but there are definitely certain aspects that I like more in one job than the other.
Doing play-by-play, you get to interact with the team on a day-to-day basis. You're not exactly a part of the team, but at the same time, you are. I really enjoy getting to know players/coaches on a personal level throughout the season. Also, doing play-by-play gives me a chance to be at the ballpark, smell the fresh-cut grass, get a whiff of a hot dog while I'm working, get to take in the sights and sounds in person.
In the TV studio, I'm not at the game, but I'm a part of a big production. In play-by-play, more times than not, it's just me working on everything. In working with TBS, I was amazed at how many people it takes to run everything smoothly and how hard everyone works to make it look as seamless as possible. Working for TBS Hot Corner, I was able to broaden my horizons. I had a chance to work with and watch big-time broadcasters (TBS's/TNT's Ernie Johnson, namely) as well as interview current and former players (Cal Ripken, John Smoltz, Ron Darling, etc) that you don't get a chance to pick the brains of people of that stature very often.
I'd say the four weeks of MLB playoff work with TBS has probably been the highlight of my career so far, but that doesn't mean I don't miss doing play-by-play.
6. What would be the one job that if you got would make you feel like all that hard work and schooling paid off?
My dream job has always been doing play-by-play for the New York Mets. I follow them religiously, anyways...might as well get paid to do it, right?
7. Is there anyone you met along the way who was great to see in person and maybe even left you in awe either because you looked up to them before or just was that great of a human being? Anyone you would prefer not to ever meet or see again if you have the choice?
Chuck, you trying to get me blacklisted by naming names of people I wouldn't want to talk to? Ha ha. I like my job...I'll stay away from the specifics, but yeah, it's probably fair to say there have been a few people that I didn't mix with well.
However, the much longer list is of people that I have really enjoyed talking to/working with over the past couple years. From a star-struck perspective, I really enjoyed interviewing Darryl Strawberry in 2005. I idolized Strawberry growing up...if you can picture a 6-year old with a huge leg kick in his swing, an exaggerated uppercut swing, wrist bands of assorted colors all the way up both arms, and an entire pack of Big League Chew in his mouth...that was me. But, after seeing him rise to stardom, have his personal problems take him out of baseball, it was good to talk to him on a personal level and know that he has made strides in his life so that he is at peace with his standing in life and in baseball.
Other baseball people that I've had a chance to talk with or work with that I enjoyed: Cal Ripken is a great man, a very calming presence. I had never met Curtis Granderson (Detroit Tigers center fielder) before and knew he was a good player, but after being able to talk to him, he's definitely got a great head on his shoulders and is somebody I now root for. Dennis Holmberg is the manager of the Auburn Doubledays and has been in the Blue Jays organization for 30 years. He is one of the most unique personalities you will ever meet. Chris Jones (former MLB outfielder) and manager of the Kannapolis Intimidators was a pleasure to work for...just a laid-back guy who let you do your job and was very accommodating.
But, most of the people I remember most from my different stops in baseball are the people nobody will ever hear of. The co-workers and interns, the host families, the season ticket holders, the everyday people that make a 100-hour-a-week job fun. Those are the ones I remember the most and there are far too many to name.
8. What sporting event do you plan everything around so you can watch it and where would we be likely to find you if you have the time and circumstances permitted? I joked with Axe about a certain sports bar in Syracuse we love called Tully's Good Times, would we find you there with family and friends or you like him and prefer at home in front of the television?
The one event I'd like to plan everything around is watching the Mets in the World Series, but I don't think that's on the immediate horizon. But, normally, it doesn't take too much for me to get excited about any sporting event.
I saw your interview with Axe and I'm like him...I usually like to watch the game at home. Being a broadcaster, I'm the nerd who likes to listen to the broadcast and pick up on things that they say/do during the game. So, I'm usually at the house or somebodys house watching the game. If I'm really trying to focus on the game, I'd almost prefer to watch it by myself. Don't tell my friends that, though, they may get upset. ha ha.
9. Since your a baseball man, do you play fantasy baseball and if so, who would you pick if you got the top draft pick in your league and why?
People are surprised when I tell them I don't play fantasy baseball. For me, it's just too much to keep up with. I've tried the leagues where you just set the lineup for the entire week and go that way and I just can't do it.
I have taken a liking to something I am in this year....a HR Derby pool. We've each got 7 guys for the whole season. You pick the 7 guys based on last year's HR totals and your team total can't exceed a certain number, which is calculated fairly (don't ask me how). You keep track of HR's each month, at the All-Star break, and the end of the season. I find myself paying more attention to who is hitting HR's and not who's winning games...
But, if I was going to pick a player to start my team with in fantasy baseball, my biased picks would be: David Wright or Jose Reyes - just solid all-around players. You know what you'll get every year from Wright and Reyes has the ability to lead the league in SB, R, and 3B every year and is still getting better. Outside of the Mets, you can't go wrong with A-Rod. Some guys that are starting to look like great all-around guys are Grady Sizemore, Hanley Ramirez, Chase Utley, and the David Wright clone, Evan Longoria.
10. As a fellow Mets fan, what is your view on the current team and are the Mets in general your top sports team in all of sports? If not, who is?
Yikes, don't get me started on the current team. I feel like they handled the Willie Randolph saga pretty badly. I liked Willie. I thought the things people said were his downfalls lately were the same things he was being praised for when the team was winning. But, a lot of fans wanted him out, but the same fans ended up viewing him as a sympathetic figure just because of the way management handled the whole thing.
Aside from that, they haven't really shown they're anything more than a .500 team, have they? They don't have the ability to go out and be in the market for any real big names at the deadline. Jerry Manuel's been a fresh start, but it hasn't translated in the standings. I hope I'm wrong, but we'll see...
Yes, the Mets are the team I root for the most, followed in order by: Syracuse, the New York Giants, and the Chicago Bulls. I don't really follow hockey.
11. Someone reads this and still asks to describe you to them, what is it you would like for them to say about you?
I'm a pretty laid-back, fun-loving guy. My job revolves around talking sports. I take my job very seriously, but realize that I'm in a profession that, in the grand scheme of things, is not as important as saving lives or teaching kids or many other professions.
Other than that, I'm big on family, friends, and fun.
12. Your Free Space: So Matt, do you want to say to end this thing or plug something your doing but just remember, keep them comments clean.
I appreciate talking with you, Chuck. I'll leave with this:
1. Syracuse winters really ARE as miserable as they sound.
2. "go hang a salami I'm a lasagna hog" is the longest known palindrome. Yeah.
3. I will ask for nothing more in the sports world as long as the Mets win a World Series in my lifetime and I'm able to remember it (I was 3 in 1986...that doesn't count).
4. Words that were told to me...anything worth doing is worth doing right.
Thank you so much Matt for great in depth analysis. As a Mets fan and Orange fanatic, how could I argue with most of what he said? I will also come clean with the fact that after my experience with Matt in the booth, I wrote an article about it for a local paper and it was published, which I will try to include the link to that below. If you have the chance to listen to Matt, I promise you he will be worth your time and those of us who are Intimidators fans know we lost a great person last season but know Dan Bumpus, also an Orange grad, is doing a spectacular job as well this season. Further proof that when you want the best in the broadcasting booth, there is only one way to go. Go Orange.
http://slspublish.bits.baseview.com/kc/opinion/327174887633561.php
12 Reasons Why......Matt Dagostino Is A Name To Remember
1. For those who may not be familiar with you Matt as I am, give them a little insight into who you are and what you do?
I am a 2005 graduate of Syracuse University and have been a sports broadcaster since graduating. I spent three years doing play-by-play in minor league baseball, first with the Auburn Doubledays (Toronto Blue Jays) of the New York-Penn League, then with the Wilson Tobs (NC) of the Coastal Plain League (college summer league), then with the Kannapolis Intimidators (Chicago White Sox) of the South Atlantic League in 2007. After my year in Kannapolis, I took a job as a host on TBS Hot Corner, a live internet show affiliated with TBS and MLB.com during the 2007 MLB playoffs. I am currently a freelance broadcaster/production assistant with TBS/TNT.
2. Where did you go to school and how did you get your start in this business?
...always good to read all the questions before you dive into this sort of thing...ha ha.
As I prematurely mentioned above, I graduated from Syracuse University in 2005 with a major in broadcast journalism and a minor in coaching (yes, that actually is a minor). I grew up in upstate NY and rooted for SU sports teams. When it got time to decide where I wanted to go to school, I always liked playing/watching sports, but thought being a sports broadcaster was a pipe dream that was more a joke than anything else. But, my parents were the ones who convinced me to actually pursue it. Come to find out, SU has one of the top broadcasting programs in the country. Syracuse seemed like a perfect fit...and it was.
I got started in sports broadcasting with the Auburn Doubledays. Auburn is located about a half hour from Syracuse and has always been a "feeder team" for aspiring SU sports broadcasters. They routinely take SU students to be their broadcasters every year. One of my friends held the position the year before me, put in a good word for me, and I got the job in 2005.
3. What advice would you give someone looking to follow in your footsteps? Recommend any particular school or courses? Maybe something in an Orange? ha ha
For anyone looking to get into sports broadcasting, I hope you don't like money...
No, seriously...I love talking about sports. I can't imagine myself doing anything else (believe me, I've tried imagining what else I could do to earn a few extra bucks). If you love what you do, keep doing it. The pay in sports broadcasting is lousy in the beginning (I can attest to that) and the hours are ridiculous. But, at the end of the day my job was to show up to a baseball park and talk baseball for three hours a day. Not bad. Now, I get to work for a great company in TBS and get my feet wet with them as I hope to get more involved with them in the near future.
As for a school, I might have a slight bias towards the Orange. I would recommend Syracuse for anyone interested in the broadcast business, either in front of the camera or behind it. If you're interested in sports broadcasting, take the play-by-play elective (taught by SU play-by-play man, Matt Park) and the sports reporting class (taught by ESPN's Dave Ryan, an SU alum).
4. I know first hand you put a lot of prep work into your job so give us a sample of a work day for you for those who have not witnessed some of it first hand?
Yeah, like I said, the hours are ridiculous in minor league baseball. If we were at home, I'd usually stroll into the park between 8 am and 10 am. Usually, if you're the broadcaster, you're also involved in media relations. So, right away, I'd get started on putting together stat packs for the coaching staffs, the media, and the broadcasters. Then, I'd work on game notes for that day's game, which are used by the broadcasters and media and contain more stats and information than one person probably would ever need. After that, take care of any roster updates, make sure any box score corrections from last night are taken care of, etc.
After lunch, I usually took care of any odds and ends, like sales calls (minor league baseball is big on sales, even from broadcasters), any phone calls I had to return/make, and tie up loose ends.
Batting practice would start around 4:00, at which point I'd go down to the field and talk to the guys and watch BP, get lineups and distribute those to the teams and the press box, and then start prepping for the game. My score book is basically a bunch of barely legible numbers that only make sense to me. Without those numbers, though, I'd be lost during the game. Once my book is set to go with lineups, stats, story lines, etc., I'd go down to the clubhouse and do an interview. Then, game time rolls around and I get to do the one thing I love to do: talk baseball. When the post-game show is wrapped up, I print out box scores, deliver them to the clubhouses, write a press release, send it to the media and post it on the Internet. And, finally...I could call it a day. Usually, the day ends around 11 pm or midnight.
Wake up and do it all over again the next day.
When on the road, there wasn't quite as much responsibility, at which point I would gladly get a little more shut-eye in the morning.
5. I saw your online studio work for http://www.mlb.com/ on the TBS Hot Corner segments last postseason and was wondering, did you enjoy the experience or do you prefer more of a play by play at the stadium?
Both experiences are great. I wouldn't say I like one more than the other, but there are definitely certain aspects that I like more in one job than the other.
Doing play-by-play, you get to interact with the team on a day-to-day basis. You're not exactly a part of the team, but at the same time, you are. I really enjoy getting to know players/coaches on a personal level throughout the season. Also, doing play-by-play gives me a chance to be at the ballpark, smell the fresh-cut grass, get a whiff of a hot dog while I'm working, get to take in the sights and sounds in person.
In the TV studio, I'm not at the game, but I'm a part of a big production. In play-by-play, more times than not, it's just me working on everything. In working with TBS, I was amazed at how many people it takes to run everything smoothly and how hard everyone works to make it look as seamless as possible. Working for TBS Hot Corner, I was able to broaden my horizons. I had a chance to work with and watch big-time broadcasters (TBS's/TNT's Ernie Johnson, namely) as well as interview current and former players (Cal Ripken, John Smoltz, Ron Darling, etc) that you don't get a chance to pick the brains of people of that stature very often.
I'd say the four weeks of MLB playoff work with TBS has probably been the highlight of my career so far, but that doesn't mean I don't miss doing play-by-play.
6. What would be the one job that if you got would make you feel like all that hard work and schooling paid off?
My dream job has always been doing play-by-play for the New York Mets. I follow them religiously, anyways...might as well get paid to do it, right?
7. Is there anyone you met along the way who was great to see in person and maybe even left you in awe either because you looked up to them before or just was that great of a human being? Anyone you would prefer not to ever meet or see again if you have the choice?
Chuck, you trying to get me blacklisted by naming names of people I wouldn't want to talk to? Ha ha. I like my job...I'll stay away from the specifics, but yeah, it's probably fair to say there have been a few people that I didn't mix with well.
However, the much longer list is of people that I have really enjoyed talking to/working with over the past couple years. From a star-struck perspective, I really enjoyed interviewing Darryl Strawberry in 2005. I idolized Strawberry growing up...if you can picture a 6-year old with a huge leg kick in his swing, an exaggerated uppercut swing, wrist bands of assorted colors all the way up both arms, and an entire pack of Big League Chew in his mouth...that was me. But, after seeing him rise to stardom, have his personal problems take him out of baseball, it was good to talk to him on a personal level and know that he has made strides in his life so that he is at peace with his standing in life and in baseball.
Other baseball people that I've had a chance to talk with or work with that I enjoyed: Cal Ripken is a great man, a very calming presence. I had never met Curtis Granderson (Detroit Tigers center fielder) before and knew he was a good player, but after being able to talk to him, he's definitely got a great head on his shoulders and is somebody I now root for. Dennis Holmberg is the manager of the Auburn Doubledays and has been in the Blue Jays organization for 30 years. He is one of the most unique personalities you will ever meet. Chris Jones (former MLB outfielder) and manager of the Kannapolis Intimidators was a pleasure to work for...just a laid-back guy who let you do your job and was very accommodating.
But, most of the people I remember most from my different stops in baseball are the people nobody will ever hear of. The co-workers and interns, the host families, the season ticket holders, the everyday people that make a 100-hour-a-week job fun. Those are the ones I remember the most and there are far too many to name.
8. What sporting event do you plan everything around so you can watch it and where would we be likely to find you if you have the time and circumstances permitted? I joked with Axe about a certain sports bar in Syracuse we love called Tully's Good Times, would we find you there with family and friends or you like him and prefer at home in front of the television?
The one event I'd like to plan everything around is watching the Mets in the World Series, but I don't think that's on the immediate horizon. But, normally, it doesn't take too much for me to get excited about any sporting event.
I saw your interview with Axe and I'm like him...I usually like to watch the game at home. Being a broadcaster, I'm the nerd who likes to listen to the broadcast and pick up on things that they say/do during the game. So, I'm usually at the house or somebodys house watching the game. If I'm really trying to focus on the game, I'd almost prefer to watch it by myself. Don't tell my friends that, though, they may get upset. ha ha.
9. Since your a baseball man, do you play fantasy baseball and if so, who would you pick if you got the top draft pick in your league and why?
People are surprised when I tell them I don't play fantasy baseball. For me, it's just too much to keep up with. I've tried the leagues where you just set the lineup for the entire week and go that way and I just can't do it.
I have taken a liking to something I am in this year....a HR Derby pool. We've each got 7 guys for the whole season. You pick the 7 guys based on last year's HR totals and your team total can't exceed a certain number, which is calculated fairly (don't ask me how). You keep track of HR's each month, at the All-Star break, and the end of the season. I find myself paying more attention to who is hitting HR's and not who's winning games...
But, if I was going to pick a player to start my team with in fantasy baseball, my biased picks would be: David Wright or Jose Reyes - just solid all-around players. You know what you'll get every year from Wright and Reyes has the ability to lead the league in SB, R, and 3B every year and is still getting better. Outside of the Mets, you can't go wrong with A-Rod. Some guys that are starting to look like great all-around guys are Grady Sizemore, Hanley Ramirez, Chase Utley, and the David Wright clone, Evan Longoria.
10. As a fellow Mets fan, what is your view on the current team and are the Mets in general your top sports team in all of sports? If not, who is?
Yikes, don't get me started on the current team. I feel like they handled the Willie Randolph saga pretty badly. I liked Willie. I thought the things people said were his downfalls lately were the same things he was being praised for when the team was winning. But, a lot of fans wanted him out, but the same fans ended up viewing him as a sympathetic figure just because of the way management handled the whole thing.
Aside from that, they haven't really shown they're anything more than a .500 team, have they? They don't have the ability to go out and be in the market for any real big names at the deadline. Jerry Manuel's been a fresh start, but it hasn't translated in the standings. I hope I'm wrong, but we'll see...
Yes, the Mets are the team I root for the most, followed in order by: Syracuse, the New York Giants, and the Chicago Bulls. I don't really follow hockey.
11. Someone reads this and still asks to describe you to them, what is it you would like for them to say about you?
I'm a pretty laid-back, fun-loving guy. My job revolves around talking sports. I take my job very seriously, but realize that I'm in a profession that, in the grand scheme of things, is not as important as saving lives or teaching kids or many other professions.
Other than that, I'm big on family, friends, and fun.
12. Your Free Space: So Matt, do you want to say to end this thing or plug something your doing but just remember, keep them comments clean.
I appreciate talking with you, Chuck. I'll leave with this:
1. Syracuse winters really ARE as miserable as they sound.
2. "go hang a salami I'm a lasagna hog" is the longest known palindrome. Yeah.
3. I will ask for nothing more in the sports world as long as the Mets win a World Series in my lifetime and I'm able to remember it (I was 3 in 1986...that doesn't count).
4. Words that were told to me...anything worth doing is worth doing right.
Thank you so much Matt for great in depth analysis. As a Mets fan and Orange fanatic, how could I argue with most of what he said? I will also come clean with the fact that after my experience with Matt in the booth, I wrote an article about it for a local paper and it was published, which I will try to include the link to that below. If you have the chance to listen to Matt, I promise you he will be worth your time and those of us who are Intimidators fans know we lost a great person last season but know Dan Bumpus, also an Orange grad, is doing a spectacular job as well this season. Further proof that when you want the best in the broadcasting booth, there is only one way to go. Go Orange.
http://slspublish.bits.baseview.com/kc/opinion/327174887633561.php
Sunday, July 6, 2008
An Interesting Blog On MMA And Bret Hart
Many of you may or may not know but I have Sirius Satellite Radio and one of the channels is called Hardcore Sports Radio, which gives us an unedited take on sports from Canada and I love it. One of their shows is Fight Network Radio which is an hour long daily broadcast that covers boxing, MMA, and professional wrestling. Well, today I was checking out their website and found this blog from the shows host and Elite XC broadcaster Mauro Ranallo that was actually posted on the first of July. For you wrestling fans, there is an interesting spot at the end of the blog where it discusses a recent Bret Hart incident and some of you may find the read, interesting to say the least. I can say beyond a shadow of a doubt that Bret Hart's in ring skills made me a huge fan of his and made him possibly my top in ring performer ever but to say I am shocked at this revelation implies that I idolize these guys for who they are, which I do not, I simply enjoy their abilities in the ring. Anyway, I will again post the link to this blog and those of you who don't like wrestling, there is also some MMA and boxing statements in this as well. Enjoy.
http://www.thefightnetwork.com/blog/post/549/the_good_the_bad_the_ugly
http://www.thefightnetwork.com/blog/post/549/the_good_the_bad_the_ugly
12 Reasons Why....Some Internet Wrestling Journalists Are Reliable
This interview is with my top source for wrestling news, which you can find the link to in my blog links area, and one of the most credible voices in professional wrestling news today, Mr. Dave Scherer. I will not sit here and tell you that me and Dave are tight friends but I have read his work for years and even did the Heat report on the old 1wrestling.com website back when he was there(and occasionally send in news items if I see them before the guys have). Along with Buck Woodward and Mike Johnson, Dave and www.pwinsider.com provide you with all the news you could ever want to know about wrestling and then more. If your a wrestling fan, I not only highly recommend this site but I also suggest shelling the cash for their paid site which will offer you more exclusives and audio that along with an ad free site, will be well worth the money. I hear many within wrestling organizations bash internet reporters but I find it odd how often these guys tend to be more right then wrong if they aren't credible. By the way, as Dave will probably tell you and I can attest, many of those other websites will use their news, basically copy and pasting it on their site without even giving these guys credit. I assure you as long as I have this blog, I will never use any one's information unless I credit them as I know they do too if reporting news items they did not find themselves. Anyway, without further ado, here is some insight in Dave.
12 Reasons Why.....Some Internet Wrestling Journalists Are Reliable
1. For Anyone Not Familiar with www.pwinsider.com , please tell us a little about Dave and the website in general?
I started covering pro wrestling in the early 1990s. I owned a weekly print newsletter called The Wrestling Lariat. From there, I went to 1Wrestling.com, wrote for WOW and ECW Magazines, The New York Daily News and finally started my own site in 2004 when my contract with 1Wrestling.com expired.
2. What type of background do you have in wrestling and how and where did you get your first break?
I guess I got my first break when I started my newsletter. My background in wrestling came from being a fan since the 7o's.
3. Do you remember the moment in your past where you were watching wrestling and knew it would be a major part of your life? I know for me it was seeing Hulk Hogan come to the aid of Bob Backlund at MSG when he was attacked by the Iron Sheik and Nikolai Volkoff.
That moment would be when I quit my sales job at Coca Cola in 1999 and started doing this full time. Before that, wrestling was a hobby and a passion but when you quit a good job to do it, that's when it really becomes a part of your life.
4. Could you walk us through a day at work for you? What's a busy day in the life of Dave Scherer like and how many hours do you work a day?
It seems like all days are busy. I start my day checking for any huge news that broke while I was sleeping that Mike or Buck didn't already post on the site. Then, I handle all of the subscriptions for Elite site. From there, I start gathering news, writing columns and posting. From Monday through Friday, I generally work 9 or 10 hours a day. On the weekends, I work 4 to 6 more a day. An average work week is about 60 hours.
5. Is this your dream job or is there something you hope to one day aspire to do? Or what would you consider your ideal situation for you and www.pwinsider.com in general?
I love my job and where I am right now. I don't have any plans to stop doing it. I love what I do and I love being my own boss. I love the team we have in the site and it's an ideal place for all of us to be. We have a new project in the works but we won't ever lower the standards that we have set on www.PWInsider.com.
6. In your opinion, what's the biggest story you broke and tell us how you felt reporting it as well as the aftermath of it?
Sadly, the biggest story would be Chris Benoit murdering his family. I hated every minute of my job during that time period.
7. Does it ever bother you when people belittle the wrestling business or wrestling news websites?
It doesn't bother me even a little bit. I have never really cared what other people think and I am sure not going to start worrying about it now. I concern myself with what I think, not what other people think.
8. Tell wrestling fans exactly why they should visit your website (www.pwinsider.com) if they have never checked it out before? What type of features do you offer the fans?
If you want the most accurate news reporting of the wrestling business, we are the place for you to come. If you like great columns, extensive coverage, tons of audio, then come on over. And, if you are going to other wrestling news sites now, they are most probably getting it from us, so you should just go to the source and eliminate the middleman.
9. What would you consider your favorite wrestling show of all time? Your favorite Pay Per View Event or special event? Favorite all time match? Favorite Wrestler?
My favorite show is too hard to say. I have been watching wrestling for about 30 years. Ditto for the match. My favorite PPV was Barely Legal because it was the culmination of a dream for a lot of people that I knew very well. My favorite wrestler would have to be Ric Flair.
10. If you could meet or interview one person you have never done that with in the wrestling business, who would it be?
I have met Chris and Nancy Benoit, so I can't say them. So, I will say Bruiser Brody because that way he wouldn't have been murdered.
11. With all this said and all the opinions you share on your website, www.pwinsider.com , if people still ask to describe Dave, what would you like for them to say?
Honestly, only they can answer that. I just throw out my body of work and let them decide what they think.
12. Your Free Space, take this time to say anything you want to share with people reading this but remember, much like the WWE finally has admitted, we don't mind attracting younger viewers as well so please keep it clean.
Thanks for taking the time to read this. If you are a wrestling fan, take a look at our site. You just may like it.
For further information on Dave and the website, you can go to any one of the following sites and check it out for yourself. Thank You Dave for your time and I hope you all enjoyed this interview.
www.PWInsiderElite.com
www.PWInsider.com
www.PWInsiderXtra.com
12 Reasons Why.....Some Internet Wrestling Journalists Are Reliable
1. For Anyone Not Familiar with www.pwinsider.com , please tell us a little about Dave and the website in general?
I started covering pro wrestling in the early 1990s. I owned a weekly print newsletter called The Wrestling Lariat. From there, I went to 1Wrestling.com, wrote for WOW and ECW Magazines, The New York Daily News and finally started my own site in 2004 when my contract with 1Wrestling.com expired.
2. What type of background do you have in wrestling and how and where did you get your first break?
I guess I got my first break when I started my newsletter. My background in wrestling came from being a fan since the 7o's.
3. Do you remember the moment in your past where you were watching wrestling and knew it would be a major part of your life? I know for me it was seeing Hulk Hogan come to the aid of Bob Backlund at MSG when he was attacked by the Iron Sheik and Nikolai Volkoff.
That moment would be when I quit my sales job at Coca Cola in 1999 and started doing this full time. Before that, wrestling was a hobby and a passion but when you quit a good job to do it, that's when it really becomes a part of your life.
4. Could you walk us through a day at work for you? What's a busy day in the life of Dave Scherer like and how many hours do you work a day?
It seems like all days are busy. I start my day checking for any huge news that broke while I was sleeping that Mike or Buck didn't already post on the site. Then, I handle all of the subscriptions for Elite site. From there, I start gathering news, writing columns and posting. From Monday through Friday, I generally work 9 or 10 hours a day. On the weekends, I work 4 to 6 more a day. An average work week is about 60 hours.
5. Is this your dream job or is there something you hope to one day aspire to do? Or what would you consider your ideal situation for you and www.pwinsider.com in general?
I love my job and where I am right now. I don't have any plans to stop doing it. I love what I do and I love being my own boss. I love the team we have in the site and it's an ideal place for all of us to be. We have a new project in the works but we won't ever lower the standards that we have set on www.PWInsider.com.
6. In your opinion, what's the biggest story you broke and tell us how you felt reporting it as well as the aftermath of it?
Sadly, the biggest story would be Chris Benoit murdering his family. I hated every minute of my job during that time period.
7. Does it ever bother you when people belittle the wrestling business or wrestling news websites?
It doesn't bother me even a little bit. I have never really cared what other people think and I am sure not going to start worrying about it now. I concern myself with what I think, not what other people think.
8. Tell wrestling fans exactly why they should visit your website (www.pwinsider.com) if they have never checked it out before? What type of features do you offer the fans?
If you want the most accurate news reporting of the wrestling business, we are the place for you to come. If you like great columns, extensive coverage, tons of audio, then come on over. And, if you are going to other wrestling news sites now, they are most probably getting it from us, so you should just go to the source and eliminate the middleman.
9. What would you consider your favorite wrestling show of all time? Your favorite Pay Per View Event or special event? Favorite all time match? Favorite Wrestler?
My favorite show is too hard to say. I have been watching wrestling for about 30 years. Ditto for the match. My favorite PPV was Barely Legal because it was the culmination of a dream for a lot of people that I knew very well. My favorite wrestler would have to be Ric Flair.
10. If you could meet or interview one person you have never done that with in the wrestling business, who would it be?
I have met Chris and Nancy Benoit, so I can't say them. So, I will say Bruiser Brody because that way he wouldn't have been murdered.
11. With all this said and all the opinions you share on your website, www.pwinsider.com , if people still ask to describe Dave, what would you like for them to say?
Honestly, only they can answer that. I just throw out my body of work and let them decide what they think.
12. Your Free Space, take this time to say anything you want to share with people reading this but remember, much like the WWE finally has admitted, we don't mind attracting younger viewers as well so please keep it clean.
Thanks for taking the time to read this. If you are a wrestling fan, take a look at our site. You just may like it.
For further information on Dave and the website, you can go to any one of the following sites and check it out for yourself. Thank You Dave for your time and I hope you all enjoyed this interview.
www.PWInsiderElite.com
www.PWInsider.com
www.PWInsiderXtra.com
Recent Revelations And Ideas
So as most of you know, I am still new to this thing so please bare with me as I try out and sample ideas as they come along. For instance, I liked adding links to other blogs so since I doubt corporate sponsors will be lining up, I figured why not add links also to Orange friendly places. If you go there now under Big Orange Bloggin Chucks Extras, you will find links to where I prefer to purchase my Orange gear as well as my favorite place to eat when I go back to Syracuse (although Sami's Pizza in Bridgeport is right there with them too, that man makes the best garlic pizza and knots ever). But hey, if someone happens to read this and want to negotiate a price for a banner on my site(and I can figure out how), I will be more then happy to assist, especially if its supporting something I love like some good old Mountain Dew or one of the two places mentioned above. Anyway, I thank those of you who come here for your patience, understanding and the time you spend here. I love writing and it is my hope that you enjoy what I put out whether you agree with me or not. Also, in the future, I plan to experiment with some other ideas such as letters to the editor type format where if someone want to submit a topic that is clean and not too negative, I will post it here as well as a couple ideas I will keep in my mind until I work out the kinks. Thank you again for your support and I wish you all nothing but the best.
Orange Chuck
P.S. If anyone is interested, you can Google "Jake's Fate" which was a book I had published where I learned the hard way that editing and proofreading at times, may not be my strongest asset to my writing.
Orange Chuck
P.S. If anyone is interested, you can Google "Jake's Fate" which was a book I had published where I learned the hard way that editing and proofreading at times, may not be my strongest asset to my writing.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Has The Steroid Probe Gone Too Far?
Recently, an ESPN columnist made an accusation about Dara Torres and her spectacular showing, pointing to his view that steroids must have been involved due to her age and obstacles she had to overcome before her recent Olympic trials showing. I will not include a link to this column nor give this person's name because I have to wonder if he is doing it for sensational journalism or truly is that skeptical of everything in sports. And also wonder, just when did we get to the point when anything someone does well in sports has to be steroid related, especially if they are above the age of 30?
He points not only to her age but injuries and child birth as reasons to support such accusations. He does not offer information on her supplier, used needles or any witnesses. I guess that would actually prove something. What's worse is that he takes his opinions and attempts to actually coat them as flattery, stating that if she is clean, being superhuman and linked to steroids is a compliment. Is this a built in lean towards an apology if he is forced to do such or attempting to say, well maybe she is, maybe she isn't?
Speculating on team records or performances is one thing but when it involves possibly immoral and illegal activity, then in my opinion, you have crossed the line. I hear varying opinions on future hall of fame assessments because we are in the "steroid era" but to me, unless confronted with proof on that individual, it is an ignorant blanket statement and I think some people should be very careful when making such statements. I could make such statements on ESPN employees as well since I have little or no respect for a few there but the truth is, I like and respect the work of some within that company so I won't. Even though articles like this support that idea in my mind, I am still content not judging everyone because a few bad apples rise up. Maybe others should wait before they make their assumptions as well and not just assume that because some people needed steroids to succeed, everyone does. There are people who worked hard to get where they are and you are short changing that for your baseless theories and how long before one of them proves you wrong or better yet, asks you for your proof.
He points not only to her age but injuries and child birth as reasons to support such accusations. He does not offer information on her supplier, used needles or any witnesses. I guess that would actually prove something. What's worse is that he takes his opinions and attempts to actually coat them as flattery, stating that if she is clean, being superhuman and linked to steroids is a compliment. Is this a built in lean towards an apology if he is forced to do such or attempting to say, well maybe she is, maybe she isn't?
Speculating on team records or performances is one thing but when it involves possibly immoral and illegal activity, then in my opinion, you have crossed the line. I hear varying opinions on future hall of fame assessments because we are in the "steroid era" but to me, unless confronted with proof on that individual, it is an ignorant blanket statement and I think some people should be very careful when making such statements. I could make such statements on ESPN employees as well since I have little or no respect for a few there but the truth is, I like and respect the work of some within that company so I won't. Even though articles like this support that idea in my mind, I am still content not judging everyone because a few bad apples rise up. Maybe others should wait before they make their assumptions as well and not just assume that because some people needed steroids to succeed, everyone does. There are people who worked hard to get where they are and you are short changing that for your baseless theories and how long before one of them proves you wrong or better yet, asks you for your proof.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Former Orange Coaches Get Press
http://www.syracuse.com/today/index.ssf/2008/07/macpherson_pasqualoni_on_defen.html
Searching my top source for Syracuse sports besides maybe my boy Troy Nunes Is A Magician, on www.syracuse.com is a note about an article pertaining to my two favorite SU football coaches. Coach Mac is interviewed being fully supportive of Coach P being in charge of the Miami Dolphins defense. Included in the article is a link to the full article that also has quotes from Orange great Rob Conrad(debate me on the great issue and you will lose) as well as Joey Porter who is very optimistic about his role in the defense and even the history of Coach P and Coach Sparano. I would highly recommend reading both pieces but then again, I am a huge fan of Coach P, the man and the coach. As a Panther fan, I wish Coach P the best of luck as long as they are not playing the Panthers which if it happens this season would mean both teams made it to the Super Bowl so that wouldn't be so bad either. OK, back to trying to hear my TV over fireworks but seriously Orange fans, you should check this out.
Searching my top source for Syracuse sports besides maybe my boy Troy Nunes Is A Magician, on www.syracuse.com is a note about an article pertaining to my two favorite SU football coaches. Coach Mac is interviewed being fully supportive of Coach P being in charge of the Miami Dolphins defense. Included in the article is a link to the full article that also has quotes from Orange great Rob Conrad(debate me on the great issue and you will lose) as well as Joey Porter who is very optimistic about his role in the defense and even the history of Coach P and Coach Sparano. I would highly recommend reading both pieces but then again, I am a huge fan of Coach P, the man and the coach. As a Panther fan, I wish Coach P the best of luck as long as they are not playing the Panthers which if it happens this season would mean both teams made it to the Super Bowl so that wouldn't be so bad either. OK, back to trying to hear my TV over fireworks but seriously Orange fans, you should check this out.
Couple Quick Pens Notes
First off, it is being reported over the last 24 hours or so that not only have the New York Rangers given up on waiting for Jaromir Jagr to decide his future but he may already have a contract in place. Apparently, he has decided to not play for the Penguins or the NHL period and is ready to sign with Russian team Avangard Omsk, according to their own website, though no contract details are being reported. Penguin fans know it was rumored that Malkin was ready to do this as well but Penguins have him signed now so it looks like their first big name contract will be with Jagr. Question is, how much longer before more players, especially European based players who may want to at least spend their last few years closer to home and can still make millions of dollars (or Euros if you will)?
My other topic is for those of you who like me think hearing a Penguins game is not the same unless you got Mike Lange. I still remember working at Foodland in Plum and when the assistant manager was in charge during that Stanley Cup run of 1991, he would play the radio broadcast over the PA system and Mike made it so much more enjoyable. Not only was he knowledgable but his calls after a goal were legendary and Pens fans love it when Elvis leaves the building as well. What I just found out not long ago is that there are actually shirts with some of these slogans on it so you should check them out by clicking the link below. My only problem is deciding which one I want because I like them all.
http://www.penguinsvault.com/
My other topic is for those of you who like me think hearing a Penguins game is not the same unless you got Mike Lange. I still remember working at Foodland in Plum and when the assistant manager was in charge during that Stanley Cup run of 1991, he would play the radio broadcast over the PA system and Mike made it so much more enjoyable. Not only was he knowledgable but his calls after a goal were legendary and Pens fans love it when Elvis leaves the building as well. What I just found out not long ago is that there are actually shirts with some of these slogans on it so you should check them out by clicking the link below. My only problem is deciding which one I want because I like them all.
http://www.penguinsvault.com/
Happy 4th Of July To All And To All...Well A Happy 4th Of July
I hope you and your friends and family have a great 4th of July weekend and do something fun. This holiday is about celebrating our independence and freedoms so do that but just do it carefully. We love to emphasize these topics though sometimes we forget that with them comes responsibilities and too often people use those freedoms as an excuse for their actions. Be responsible but have fun. God bless you all and see you later and don't be shocked if this blog still gets posted over the weekend since I am dedicated to this thing....OK actually I just spend a lot of time on the computer when I have down time so get used to it and enjoy. :)
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Favre A Panther? Done Laughing Too? Now Check This Out!
http://sports.aol.com/fanhouse/2008/07/03/if-you-havent-heard-the-favre-to-carolina-rumors-dont-worry/
I have to admit, my first instinct was to laugh too after reading the link above since I have taken all this Favre playing stuff with a grain of salt anyway. But what if I ignored this and the Richardson's woke up tomorrow and did whatever it took to appease Bret and the Packers organization? I still think its a longer shot then the Mets winning the World Series this year but anything is possible. Well that is unless you want to read the story below which would be a link to Darin Gant's blog where he says this is not happening and references another one of my all time favorite comedies (as well as my daughter and father's favorites), Monty Python and The Holy Grail. I would say if your a Panther fan, check out both articles and wonder, if Jake does get hurt, who do you think will be the next starter?
http://community.heraldonline.com/that_would_be_a_no
I have to admit, my first instinct was to laugh too after reading the link above since I have taken all this Favre playing stuff with a grain of salt anyway. But what if I ignored this and the Richardson's woke up tomorrow and did whatever it took to appease Bret and the Packers organization? I still think its a longer shot then the Mets winning the World Series this year but anything is possible. Well that is unless you want to read the story below which would be a link to Darin Gant's blog where he says this is not happening and references another one of my all time favorite comedies (as well as my daughter and father's favorites), Monty Python and The Holy Grail. I would say if your a Panther fan, check out both articles and wonder, if Jake does get hurt, who do you think will be the next starter?
http://community.heraldonline.com/that_would_be_a_no
Penguins Updates As The Signing Spree Continues
Thank you to my Pittsburgh source Silly Jenie for the following information:
The Pittsburgh Penguins signed goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury to a seven-year, $35 million dollar contract, the third long-term deal inked with one of their younger players in two days. Penguins GM Ray Shero is holding a news conference at 4:30 p.m. today. To me, this is the biggest signing as Fleury has proven he is a top goalie in this leave and for $5 million a year averaged out, Penguins fan are thanking God everywhere.
Also,The Penguins have signed forward Ruslan Fedotenko to a one-year contract and forward Eric Godard to a three-year contract, it was announced Thursday by Executive Vice President and General Manager Ray Shero.
One question that Silly Jenie posed and has been reported that I think all Pens fan would love to hear, is Jagr seriously considering a return to the team who drafted him? After watching how well he played for the Rangers/Penguins series, that would be a huge addition for this team not to mention it was only a month or so ago that Jagr was stating it was either the Rangers or retirement. I would think even if its a one or two year deal, if the Pens have the cap space, this is the guy who would make Pens fans have confidence after losing Hossa, Malone and Rutuu.
The Pittsburgh Penguins signed goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury to a seven-year, $35 million dollar contract, the third long-term deal inked with one of their younger players in two days. Penguins GM Ray Shero is holding a news conference at 4:30 p.m. today. To me, this is the biggest signing as Fleury has proven he is a top goalie in this leave and for $5 million a year averaged out, Penguins fan are thanking God everywhere.
Also,The Penguins have signed forward Ruslan Fedotenko to a one-year contract and forward Eric Godard to a three-year contract, it was announced Thursday by Executive Vice President and General Manager Ray Shero.
One question that Silly Jenie posed and has been reported that I think all Pens fan would love to hear, is Jagr seriously considering a return to the team who drafted him? After watching how well he played for the Rangers/Penguins series, that would be a huge addition for this team not to mention it was only a month or so ago that Jagr was stating it was either the Rangers or retirement. I would think even if its a one or two year deal, if the Pens have the cap space, this is the guy who would make Pens fans have confidence after losing Hossa, Malone and Rutuu.
Sonics Stay in Seattle But Team Goes To Oklahoma City
Every once in a while, I may express some opinions more then just one or two lines here and there and this is one of those times. It's been reported that the Seattle SuperSonics team will move to Oklahoma City in exchange for Seattle to retain the rights to their name and colors along with cash payments and the NBA agrees to help them find a replacement. Sounds like a fair deal huh? No because Seattle still loses out in the long run and let me explain why David Stern got his way yet again.
In his statement, Commisioner Stern stated that if Seattle builds a state of the art arena, the NBA will be glad to help them with either a relocation if a team is considering such options or possibly expansion if that's something the NBA wants later down the line. That's right Seattle, not only did you lose your team but now they want you to build a top of the line arena in exchange for maybe getting a team back someday. And who will pay for this new, multi million dollar arena more then likely? Of course, it will probably be the tax payers in one form or another. Is it just me or am I getting sick and tired of hearing this line about building new arenas and stadiums and you will be rewarded.
Yes, I understand corporate money for boxes and suites help fund a team and with the cost of rising salaries, they need all the money they can get. But what about your average fan who maybe is still sporting a Shawn Kemp jersey because money is tight but loves his team, think he will be able to afford seeing his favorite team in this new arena. Or maybe they can take one of the countless $8 an hour probably with no or limited benefits jobs that will be available because I am sure with the funding of such an arena, they will emphasize how many jobs will be available now. If your lucky, maybe they will only do a luxury type tax similar to what we have in Charlotte where it comes from visitors to our city taxed onto tourism dollars, which I am sure gives many incentive to visit. In the end though, it is still the people in the area who will pay one way or another.
Please, spare me the whole we must pay salaries to maintain a winning team environment for our fans speech. Owners helped create the escalating salaries and can't blame anyone but themselves. But to be competitive, we had to offer more is what they will sell you and can defend that with what I am sure is actual logic. I am here to tell you that paying a guy $25 million a year is excessive and asking fans who are scraping by to help fund it is ridiculous. When did a couple hundred thousand or even $1 million a season become so unreasonable? Hey, offer me $1 million to play sports and even with bad knees, my butt is there in a heartbeat. No I don't blame a person for doing what they can to make as much money as they can to provide for them and their family but where does it end when we pay for it with rising taxes, ticket and concession prices?
And we come back to the two headed horse as the owners say they have to do it to provide the best team possible and players do whatever they can to make as much as they can. And yes, if it is me and my family and I have a chance for a raise, I would probably do it as well but I also know that sometimes you have to also look at the whole situation and decide what is best for everyone in this situation. If I can make a decent living for my family and still be able to keep the company profitable that is paying my wages, they I can be content with that because one day, that well may run dry and I will have nobody to blame but myself.
Seattle, build the arena if you want but the message I would send the NBA is simply, give us an owner who will build it or help fund the majority of it or stay where you are now. Seattle is a great franchise and anyone who follows the NBA can spot the uniforms from a mile away with all that green and I think Sonic fans should be proud of what your team accomplished. I would also consider what is in it for you before going forward with anything. Yeah, build it with your funds and maybe you get an expansion team or one who burned bridges in another city and the NBA will award you an all star game in return. So then what? What happens in 10-15 years when they realize that arena is outdated again? Are you ready to lose another team or spend millions of tax payer dollars to retain them this time? Welcome to the endless cycle of business in our current sports markets but truly who pays for it all in the end? I say its the fans who lose teams they have a heartfelt bond with and many times is placed highly in their life or millions of dollars a year to help fund all of this. Maybe its just me but I think the title of the Seattle newspaper this morning should have been "Seattle Screwed."
In his statement, Commisioner Stern stated that if Seattle builds a state of the art arena, the NBA will be glad to help them with either a relocation if a team is considering such options or possibly expansion if that's something the NBA wants later down the line. That's right Seattle, not only did you lose your team but now they want you to build a top of the line arena in exchange for maybe getting a team back someday. And who will pay for this new, multi million dollar arena more then likely? Of course, it will probably be the tax payers in one form or another. Is it just me or am I getting sick and tired of hearing this line about building new arenas and stadiums and you will be rewarded.
Yes, I understand corporate money for boxes and suites help fund a team and with the cost of rising salaries, they need all the money they can get. But what about your average fan who maybe is still sporting a Shawn Kemp jersey because money is tight but loves his team, think he will be able to afford seeing his favorite team in this new arena. Or maybe they can take one of the countless $8 an hour probably with no or limited benefits jobs that will be available because I am sure with the funding of such an arena, they will emphasize how many jobs will be available now. If your lucky, maybe they will only do a luxury type tax similar to what we have in Charlotte where it comes from visitors to our city taxed onto tourism dollars, which I am sure gives many incentive to visit. In the end though, it is still the people in the area who will pay one way or another.
Please, spare me the whole we must pay salaries to maintain a winning team environment for our fans speech. Owners helped create the escalating salaries and can't blame anyone but themselves. But to be competitive, we had to offer more is what they will sell you and can defend that with what I am sure is actual logic. I am here to tell you that paying a guy $25 million a year is excessive and asking fans who are scraping by to help fund it is ridiculous. When did a couple hundred thousand or even $1 million a season become so unreasonable? Hey, offer me $1 million to play sports and even with bad knees, my butt is there in a heartbeat. No I don't blame a person for doing what they can to make as much money as they can to provide for them and their family but where does it end when we pay for it with rising taxes, ticket and concession prices?
And we come back to the two headed horse as the owners say they have to do it to provide the best team possible and players do whatever they can to make as much as they can. And yes, if it is me and my family and I have a chance for a raise, I would probably do it as well but I also know that sometimes you have to also look at the whole situation and decide what is best for everyone in this situation. If I can make a decent living for my family and still be able to keep the company profitable that is paying my wages, they I can be content with that because one day, that well may run dry and I will have nobody to blame but myself.
Seattle, build the arena if you want but the message I would send the NBA is simply, give us an owner who will build it or help fund the majority of it or stay where you are now. Seattle is a great franchise and anyone who follows the NBA can spot the uniforms from a mile away with all that green and I think Sonic fans should be proud of what your team accomplished. I would also consider what is in it for you before going forward with anything. Yeah, build it with your funds and maybe you get an expansion team or one who burned bridges in another city and the NBA will award you an all star game in return. So then what? What happens in 10-15 years when they realize that arena is outdated again? Are you ready to lose another team or spend millions of tax payer dollars to retain them this time? Welcome to the endless cycle of business in our current sports markets but truly who pays for it all in the end? I say its the fans who lose teams they have a heartfelt bond with and many times is placed highly in their life or millions of dollars a year to help fund all of this. Maybe its just me but I think the title of the Seattle newspaper this morning should have been "Seattle Screwed."
Another Pen Bites The Dust But...
So I wake up this morning and see the Pittsburgh Penguins lost another player of this 08 Stanley Cup finals team as Jarkko Ruutu accepted a three-year, $3.9 million offer from Ottawa yesterday, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Also in this article though is some optimistic news that not only are they pursuing possible replacements, especially at forward and right wing but according to Dave Molinari, who wrote the article, they have a deal in place but need to work out more details to keep goalie Marc-Andre Fleury in Pittsburgh for years to come. Included in the article is a quote from Pens GM Ray Shero states, "I'm hopeful that in the next couple of days, something will work out there," said Shero, the Penguins' general manager." Those are the basics of the article but I will include the link below as it goes into great details about everything going on right now and he explains it better then I can along with other news from Shero, including his attempt to be optimistic about losing Hossa. Click below to check out the article.
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08185/894519-61.stm
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08185/894519-61.stm
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Orpik Re-Signs
Defensemen Brooks Orpik has officially signed a 6 year contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins according to my source, which of course would be the same text messaging service any Penguins fan could get if they signed up for it. No details on the contract but the fact that they have him signed for 6 years is good enough for me. Can't complain too much, they at least retained two top players from the Stanley Cup finals team. I hate that Malone, Hossa and Roberts are gone but that's free agency people, love it or leave it.
Finally.....The Deal Is Done
I just received a text message and its official, center Evgeni Malkin has signed a deal to remain with the Pens for 5 years. After speculation about playing in Russia and so forth, it's great to finally have this deal inked. And yes I trust the source of the text, it was the official Penguins text updating service.
As Soon As I Speak....
I just received a message from a Pens fan in who lives in Pittsburgh that Marian Hossa has signed with Detroit and sure enough, he did. This story is breaking as we speak but it looks like he has turned down long term deals to do one year in Detroit. I will link you to the article and thanks to my friend Jenie for her help on this one.
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08184/894245-100.stm
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08184/894245-100.stm
Penguins Update
Darren Dreger from TSN is reporting that Evgeni Malkin is ready to agree to a contract extension with the Pittsburgh Penguins that will be similar to Crosby's deal. The deal is reported to be a five year deal averaging $8.5 million. Defenseman Mark Eaton(two years, $2 million) and forward Pascal Dupuis(three years, $4.2 million) have also signed deals to remain with the team. I hope Orpik and Hossa can also come to terms soon as I think both men are important members of this roster and hopefully won't cost too much on the cap to help fill holes in free agency left by Roberts and Malone. Click below for the full story from them including even more information on the Malkin deal as well as more on Eaton and Dupuis.
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242152&lid=headline&lpos=secStory_main
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=242152&lid=headline&lpos=secStory_main
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Quick Carolina Panther Notes
For those of you who are Panther fans and interested in their training camp schedule, http://www.panthers.com/ says players are to report on July 25th and start practice the next morning, approximately 9:10 am. For those of you planning to make the trip to Wofford College in South Carolina, these practices are free and with the potential this team has, it should make for a fun atmosphere. The website is also reporting that training camp will end one week earlier then Coach Fox normally ends it, which will be August 13th. Panther fans will be praying in unison that this week off hopefully helps to eliminate injuries and the players take this as a sign to bust their butts on the field for Coach Fox and prove he deserves to remain head coach of this organization for years to come.
Also, July 26th at 10:00am is when single game tickets will go on sale so while the players are getting off to their start at training camp, you may want to get your tickets to any of the 10 home games they have schedules this year. Those home games are: 2 preseason games against Indianapolis (8-9) and Washington (8-23) as well as 8 regular season games that include Chicago (9-14), Atlanta (9-28), Kansas City (10-5), New Orleans (10-19), Arizona (10-26), Detroit (11-16), Tampa Bay (12-8), and Denver (12-14).
Also, July 26th at 10:00am is when single game tickets will go on sale so while the players are getting off to their start at training camp, you may want to get your tickets to any of the 10 home games they have schedules this year. Those home games are: 2 preseason games against Indianapolis (8-9) and Washington (8-23) as well as 8 regular season games that include Chicago (9-14), Atlanta (9-28), Kansas City (10-5), New Orleans (10-19), Arizona (10-26), Detroit (11-16), Tampa Bay (12-8), and Denver (12-14).
12 Reasons Why....Axe Is The Man For 'Cuse Action
In my second interview, I went with the man who first introduced me to blogging. At the time, he was a former talk show host and now has another show at WNSS ESPN Radio 1260 from 3pm to 6pm every weekday, please welcome to the blog, Brent Axe aka The Axeman. You can also find a link to Axe's blog on Syracuse.com to the left of the page and enjoy his writing style there. He does a great balance of Syracuse sports, big topics in sports world period and occasionally his Bills or Red Sox opinions can be noted well in his writing as well. I hope you enjoy this insight into the mind of a man who will pull no punches and keep you entertained as well. I personally would like to thank Axe who as you will see took a lot of time to answer these and I think answered my questions and many more not asked as well. Here is the one, the only Axeman.
12 Reasons Why.....Axe Is The Man For 'Cuse Action
1. For those who have never heard of Brent Axe, please give them some insight into that evil mind of yours and who you are?
Always the hardest question to answer. I could give you the answer that Dr.Evil gave in "Austin Powers", but I will go with this instead. I'll quote another movie here. As the priest in "Spaceballs" said, here is the short, short version. I was born and raised in Syracuse. My father took me to an SU game when I was five and I was hooked on sports from that moment on. I played all kinds of sports in school, but Lacrosse was my game. The highlight of my career was when Ryan Powell and I shared MVP honors at the 1996 All-Star Game. He went on to a lucrative lacrosse career. Let's just say I did not.I went on to college at Herkimer County Community College. I was determined to be the next Dan Patrick when I got there, but soon fell in love with talk radio when I got an internship with Brad Davies at WIBX Radio in Utica. That internship turned into a part-time job as a producer, that turned into a co-host role, that turned into my own show eventually. I'm leaving out the details of how pathetic my salary was and other radio horror stories. I went on to work for Sportsradio 620 WHEN in Syracuse from 2002-2006, highlights being when I was on the air until 4 a.m. the night SU won the national title in basketball and the grief I still get to this day that "you got Coach P fired". I did a good show there, and had a lot of fun, but then one day Clear Channel had a "let's lay some people off" party and I was unfortunately invited. Since then, I have been blogging for Syracuse.com and recently returned to the talk radio world on ESPN Radio 1260 in Syracuse. Outside of sports, cooking is my other passion. If I am not watching ESPN, then chances are I am watching the Food Network. My wife thinks I watch it to stare at Giada's cleavage. She may be right.
2. What is your educational background and what courses did you take that helped get you where you are today?
I have what I like to call a "half-and-half" degree. I earned a communications degree at Herkimer County Community College and will be forever grateful for all that I learned there. But it was the life experience of internships and working part-time in radio that taught me what I needed to know about the business.
3. What made you decide to go this path and what advice would you give those also considering any part of it?
It was kind of an accident how it happened. I was always passionate about sports. While other kids were doing last minute homework assignments or gossiping in homeroom, I was the geek reading the sports page. Sister Nancy at Bishop Ludden High School, where I went, noticed that I used to blab in the hallways a lot (but never in class of course!) about sports so she challenged me to do the morning announcements over the PA system at school. This was junior year in high school. I loved it. That summer, I got the chance to intern at Z89 in Syracuse and had a blast doing that as well. When it came time to go to college, I noticed "Radio/TV Communications" as a major. "Hey, I can do that" I thought and off I went.Advice? Have a backup plan. Seriously. This is a great industry if you can get into it, but it will test your passion to its limits and contrary to popular belief IT DOES NOT PAY WELL. It is a lot like baseball. When you are in the minors, you have to scrape by. If you make to to the big leagues, you can do well for yourself. But be prepared to get a second job to pay the bills.
4. If you weren't doing this, what do you think you would be doing, besides playing pro lacrosse?
LOL. You read my mind on the lacrosse thing. Good question. I would probably be a middle school social studies teacher. I had a passion for history and government when I was younger before sports took over my life.
5. Please give us a glimpse into a day in the life of Axe, what is your day like between your blog The Axeman on www.syracuse.com and your radio show on ESPN Radio 1260 AM in Syracuse from 3-6 PM every weekday at www.espnradio1260.com ?
The great thing about my life is no two days are the same. For Dot Com, the good thing is during SU Football and Basketball season, the schedule pretty much sets itself. I write wrap-ups after every game and opinion pieces in between them. I go to the game, take notes during it, go to the post game press conferences to get reaction, and come home and start banging the keyboard. That is where it gets interesting. Some nights it takes me less than an hour to write my thoughts, transcribe the quotes I get from players and coaches, and insert a few pictures. Some nights I am there for hours staring at the screen. It all depends on what kind of creative flow you get into. I have written posts that required very little editing. Some posts it takes me longer to edit it than it took to write it. And if I miss anything, boy do the people in the comments section let me know about it! The radio show is more of a grind and takes more work than people think. You don't just show up and blab for three hours. Anyone can do that. The challenge we face everyday is can we entertain you for three hours everyday?I am always prepping for that show. I call it "the disease". You never, ever watch sports the same again when you do a radio show. You can't simply relax and watch a game or read something about sports. Two thoughts are constantly running through your head while watching a game, reading an article, etc.
1. Will I talk about this on the air?
2. How will I talk about this on the air.
6. Bob Costas recently did an hour and half long special on HBO discussing blogging and sports talk radio, both of which you have some expertise, well experience at least(just kidding). What was your opinion of that show and the opinions expressed on both issues and do you think they serve a valuable asset to our society?
That show was epic and should be required viewing for anyone that wants to go into the sports media business. On sports talk radio, I STRONGLY reject the notion that it is just a bunch of guys yelling at each other. There are certainly shows that do that, but there are plenty of sports talk hosts out there that actually do a lot of research, have some intelligent things to say, and don't just want to fire coaches. Something Costas said on that show really stuck with me. He questioned how sports talk hosts could be so strongly opinionated on so many things everyday.That couldn't be more right and because of that I try not to force things on my show if I'm not that passionate about them. On blogs, Buzz Bissinger did more favors for blogs on that show than they could ever do for themselves. How a great writer like that could not tell the difference between a blog post itself and the comments section below it is beyond me. Blogs and Sports Talk Radio serve a great purpose. At the end of the day, they both give the fan an outlet to express their opinion and to call B.S. on the things the "MSM", a coach, a team, a player, etc, feeds them. Blogs and sports talk radio are by and large reaction mediums. We watch a sport or news story, we react to it. Why the "MSM" is so threatened by that puzzles me. They are still delivering a majority of the content. There are simply more avenues for people to react to it now in a public forum. It is not like people weren't this opinionated before. Only now, instead of telling a few people about it at the water cooler at work, they blog it, call a radio show , or get on a message board.That is really it. The sooner the "MSM" realizes that, they faster we can move on. I will agree that some blogs take it way too far and some people just love the fact they can use bad words a little too much. But the great thing about this society is we have the freedom and ability to decide what it crap and what is legit.
7. You wake up tomorrow and someone calls to say your wish came true, what dream job or interview did you just get?
CO-Host of "The View"!!No, I'm living it baby. Seriously, I grew up in Syracuse and always wanted to be that guy on the radio talking SU sports. To be able to do that in my hometown, talking about the teams I grew up rooting for and to have my family be able to hear it everyday, how does it get better than that?
8. In your opinion, is the most over rated sport out there? Most under rated? And what is your top source for news information or sports media outlet?
Overrated sport=SOCCER
Underrated sport=Lacrosse
ESPN.com and Syracuse.com are my top two sources
9. There is a big sporting event coming up and you can't be there in person, where are you mostly likely to be when the game starts? And if its enjoying chicken tenders at Tully's, is there a seat near you left for me too?
Boring answer, but I'm on my couch. I'm a homebody. I don't really like to watch sports out that much because I like to hear what the announcers are saying. At a loud sports bar, that isn't always possible. That said, I love watching Red Sox games on a lazy summer night with a cold Sam Adams in hand at the Beginning II in Syracuse.
10. What one sports team or sport period could you not live without if for some reason it gets nixed like the women's softball team did in the Olympics?
Fall=Football. Without football, I am convinced I would shrivel up and die.
11. If someone were to ask about you, what would you hope they would say in your regards?
Hmmm. Good question. That I was real. That I was genuine. It always bothers me when I meet someone who is phony. I would hope I don't come across that way to people I meet.
12. Your Free Space, spill your beans but keep it clean. What ya got Axeman?
Oh goodie. A few things.
1. I just want people to know that 100% of what I write and what I say on the radio is real. I don't say things just for the sake of getting a reaction out of people. If my opinion happens to get a reaction out of you, than great. But any opinion I give online and on the air is the exact same one you would get if you were on the bar stool next me to.
2. May we see the Buffalo Bills win a Super Bowl in my lifetime.
3. I think things are going to get real interesting around here this fall with a certain football coach and I would be surprised if he made it through the season.
4. Why do we only get two presidential candidates to choose from?
5. No one will ever replace Tim Russert, but I have faith there is someone out there that can take the torch from Tim Russert and give the politicians hell.
I will simply leave you with the great words of my father, Douglas Axe. "Remember son, you only get out of life what you put into it".That is darn right.
So what did we learn from this interview besides he has great taste in movies quoting Spaceballs but as a Mets and Carolina Panther fans, not so sure about his tastes in teams (just picking with you Axe, I got much love for Bill Buckner to this day). I will note that I have been enjoying Axe for over a year now back when he was just a blogger and did his weekly live blog stream and chat sessions and if there is one thing about Axe other then his great sense of humor, it's that he is not shy on his opinions and stands by them. If you get the chance, you should check out his stuff whether its on his blog, which again, the link is on the left of the page or his radio gig, which has streaming audio from 3pm until 6pm every weekday at www.espnradio1260.com . Thank you again for your time Axe and for those of you who took the time to read this, let me know what you think or go to his sites and tell him yourself. I am Orange Chuck and this has been the biography of the man they call Axe.
12 Reasons Why.....Axe Is The Man For 'Cuse Action
1. For those who have never heard of Brent Axe, please give them some insight into that evil mind of yours and who you are?
Always the hardest question to answer. I could give you the answer that Dr.Evil gave in "Austin Powers", but I will go with this instead. I'll quote another movie here. As the priest in "Spaceballs" said, here is the short, short version. I was born and raised in Syracuse. My father took me to an SU game when I was five and I was hooked on sports from that moment on. I played all kinds of sports in school, but Lacrosse was my game. The highlight of my career was when Ryan Powell and I shared MVP honors at the 1996 All-Star Game. He went on to a lucrative lacrosse career. Let's just say I did not.I went on to college at Herkimer County Community College. I was determined to be the next Dan Patrick when I got there, but soon fell in love with talk radio when I got an internship with Brad Davies at WIBX Radio in Utica. That internship turned into a part-time job as a producer, that turned into a co-host role, that turned into my own show eventually. I'm leaving out the details of how pathetic my salary was and other radio horror stories. I went on to work for Sportsradio 620 WHEN in Syracuse from 2002-2006, highlights being when I was on the air until 4 a.m. the night SU won the national title in basketball and the grief I still get to this day that "you got Coach P fired". I did a good show there, and had a lot of fun, but then one day Clear Channel had a "let's lay some people off" party and I was unfortunately invited. Since then, I have been blogging for Syracuse.com and recently returned to the talk radio world on ESPN Radio 1260 in Syracuse. Outside of sports, cooking is my other passion. If I am not watching ESPN, then chances are I am watching the Food Network. My wife thinks I watch it to stare at Giada's cleavage. She may be right.
2. What is your educational background and what courses did you take that helped get you where you are today?
I have what I like to call a "half-and-half" degree. I earned a communications degree at Herkimer County Community College and will be forever grateful for all that I learned there. But it was the life experience of internships and working part-time in radio that taught me what I needed to know about the business.
3. What made you decide to go this path and what advice would you give those also considering any part of it?
It was kind of an accident how it happened. I was always passionate about sports. While other kids were doing last minute homework assignments or gossiping in homeroom, I was the geek reading the sports page. Sister Nancy at Bishop Ludden High School, where I went, noticed that I used to blab in the hallways a lot (but never in class of course!) about sports so she challenged me to do the morning announcements over the PA system at school. This was junior year in high school. I loved it. That summer, I got the chance to intern at Z89 in Syracuse and had a blast doing that as well. When it came time to go to college, I noticed "Radio/TV Communications" as a major. "Hey, I can do that" I thought and off I went.Advice? Have a backup plan. Seriously. This is a great industry if you can get into it, but it will test your passion to its limits and contrary to popular belief IT DOES NOT PAY WELL. It is a lot like baseball. When you are in the minors, you have to scrape by. If you make to to the big leagues, you can do well for yourself. But be prepared to get a second job to pay the bills.
4. If you weren't doing this, what do you think you would be doing, besides playing pro lacrosse?
LOL. You read my mind on the lacrosse thing. Good question. I would probably be a middle school social studies teacher. I had a passion for history and government when I was younger before sports took over my life.
5. Please give us a glimpse into a day in the life of Axe, what is your day like between your blog The Axeman on www.syracuse.com and your radio show on ESPN Radio 1260 AM in Syracuse from 3-6 PM every weekday at www.espnradio1260.com ?
The great thing about my life is no two days are the same. For Dot Com, the good thing is during SU Football and Basketball season, the schedule pretty much sets itself. I write wrap-ups after every game and opinion pieces in between them. I go to the game, take notes during it, go to the post game press conferences to get reaction, and come home and start banging the keyboard. That is where it gets interesting. Some nights it takes me less than an hour to write my thoughts, transcribe the quotes I get from players and coaches, and insert a few pictures. Some nights I am there for hours staring at the screen. It all depends on what kind of creative flow you get into. I have written posts that required very little editing. Some posts it takes me longer to edit it than it took to write it. And if I miss anything, boy do the people in the comments section let me know about it! The radio show is more of a grind and takes more work than people think. You don't just show up and blab for three hours. Anyone can do that. The challenge we face everyday is can we entertain you for three hours everyday?I am always prepping for that show. I call it "the disease". You never, ever watch sports the same again when you do a radio show. You can't simply relax and watch a game or read something about sports. Two thoughts are constantly running through your head while watching a game, reading an article, etc.
1. Will I talk about this on the air?
2. How will I talk about this on the air.
6. Bob Costas recently did an hour and half long special on HBO discussing blogging and sports talk radio, both of which you have some expertise, well experience at least(just kidding). What was your opinion of that show and the opinions expressed on both issues and do you think they serve a valuable asset to our society?
That show was epic and should be required viewing for anyone that wants to go into the sports media business. On sports talk radio, I STRONGLY reject the notion that it is just a bunch of guys yelling at each other. There are certainly shows that do that, but there are plenty of sports talk hosts out there that actually do a lot of research, have some intelligent things to say, and don't just want to fire coaches. Something Costas said on that show really stuck with me. He questioned how sports talk hosts could be so strongly opinionated on so many things everyday.That couldn't be more right and because of that I try not to force things on my show if I'm not that passionate about them. On blogs, Buzz Bissinger did more favors for blogs on that show than they could ever do for themselves. How a great writer like that could not tell the difference between a blog post itself and the comments section below it is beyond me. Blogs and Sports Talk Radio serve a great purpose. At the end of the day, they both give the fan an outlet to express their opinion and to call B.S. on the things the "MSM", a coach, a team, a player, etc, feeds them. Blogs and sports talk radio are by and large reaction mediums. We watch a sport or news story, we react to it. Why the "MSM" is so threatened by that puzzles me. They are still delivering a majority of the content. There are simply more avenues for people to react to it now in a public forum. It is not like people weren't this opinionated before. Only now, instead of telling a few people about it at the water cooler at work, they blog it, call a radio show , or get on a message board.That is really it. The sooner the "MSM" realizes that, they faster we can move on. I will agree that some blogs take it way too far and some people just love the fact they can use bad words a little too much. But the great thing about this society is we have the freedom and ability to decide what it crap and what is legit.
7. You wake up tomorrow and someone calls to say your wish came true, what dream job or interview did you just get?
CO-Host of "The View"!!No, I'm living it baby. Seriously, I grew up in Syracuse and always wanted to be that guy on the radio talking SU sports. To be able to do that in my hometown, talking about the teams I grew up rooting for and to have my family be able to hear it everyday, how does it get better than that?
8. In your opinion, is the most over rated sport out there? Most under rated? And what is your top source for news information or sports media outlet?
Overrated sport=SOCCER
Underrated sport=Lacrosse
ESPN.com and Syracuse.com are my top two sources
9. There is a big sporting event coming up and you can't be there in person, where are you mostly likely to be when the game starts? And if its enjoying chicken tenders at Tully's, is there a seat near you left for me too?
Boring answer, but I'm on my couch. I'm a homebody. I don't really like to watch sports out that much because I like to hear what the announcers are saying. At a loud sports bar, that isn't always possible. That said, I love watching Red Sox games on a lazy summer night with a cold Sam Adams in hand at the Beginning II in Syracuse.
10. What one sports team or sport period could you not live without if for some reason it gets nixed like the women's softball team did in the Olympics?
Fall=Football. Without football, I am convinced I would shrivel up and die.
11. If someone were to ask about you, what would you hope they would say in your regards?
Hmmm. Good question. That I was real. That I was genuine. It always bothers me when I meet someone who is phony. I would hope I don't come across that way to people I meet.
12. Your Free Space, spill your beans but keep it clean. What ya got Axeman?
Oh goodie. A few things.
1. I just want people to know that 100% of what I write and what I say on the radio is real. I don't say things just for the sake of getting a reaction out of people. If my opinion happens to get a reaction out of you, than great. But any opinion I give online and on the air is the exact same one you would get if you were on the bar stool next me to.
2. May we see the Buffalo Bills win a Super Bowl in my lifetime.
3. I think things are going to get real interesting around here this fall with a certain football coach and I would be surprised if he made it through the season.
4. Why do we only get two presidential candidates to choose from?
5. No one will ever replace Tim Russert, but I have faith there is someone out there that can take the torch from Tim Russert and give the politicians hell.
I will simply leave you with the great words of my father, Douglas Axe. "Remember son, you only get out of life what you put into it".That is darn right.
So what did we learn from this interview besides he has great taste in movies quoting Spaceballs but as a Mets and Carolina Panther fans, not so sure about his tastes in teams (just picking with you Axe, I got much love for Bill Buckner to this day). I will note that I have been enjoying Axe for over a year now back when he was just a blogger and did his weekly live blog stream and chat sessions and if there is one thing about Axe other then his great sense of humor, it's that he is not shy on his opinions and stands by them. If you get the chance, you should check out his stuff whether its on his blog, which again, the link is on the left of the page or his radio gig, which has streaming audio from 3pm until 6pm every weekday at www.espnradio1260.com . Thank you again for your time Axe and for those of you who took the time to read this, let me know what you think or go to his sites and tell him yourself. I am Orange Chuck and this has been the biography of the man they call Axe.
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