A Flagrant Crime
March 10, 2007
I did not see it live, but I watched the replays and there is no question that it was a crime. Chris Simon was sent against the boards during a hockey game and therefore he felt compelled to slash the offender's throat with his hockey stick. There is no question that it was deliberate act of violence. Watch the video closely and you can tell that Simon is cozignant of what he is doing and he is taking aim. This was not a wild slash of retaliation. This was a precise slash. He took aim and fired.
I don't think there should be any talk about suspension, it should all be about prosecuting a crime. This act cannot be tolerated under any circumstances and he should be prosecuted for assault and battery.
Hockey may like its fights, but this cannot be accepted.
Another Collapse
February 19, 2007
Why do people still believe in Phil the choke Mickleson? He collapses eaiser than a sack of potatoes.
I know people want someone to challenge Tiger Woods, but why root for "I'm a nice guy Phil"? It is better to root for someone who intends on winning like Vijay or Ernie or even Padriag. Sergio would be fun to root for but I think he acts too much like Phil and less like Tiger. The killer instinct is not in Phil and I doubt he will ever have it. The entire weekend I thought he could lose only because he has done that before. I wasn't considering that he was at the top of the leaderboard the entire weekend, so he was going to win.
Mickleson is the most over hyped golfer of this era. Yes, he may have great ability and some good shot selections. However, he doesn't know how to win. He only knows how to play. So jump off his bandwagon and find another golfer who knows how to win, if you don't want to root for Tiger. And I would suggest Vijay, Ernie, Padriag and any other non American golfer who isn't Sergio.
Will anyone beat Roger?
January 26, 2007
Roger Federer destroyed Andy Roddick in the Australian Open semis. Andy had no answers and now has more questions. Even with Jimmy in his corner Andy can't get past this great tennis player. Why?
When I heard Roddick was in the semis, I wasn't too surprised and expected to see a competitive match. Boy that didn't happen. Roddick looked worse than the last time Roger beat him. And Roger always beats Andy.
Will Andy ever beat Roger? Will Roger have to retire before anyone will challenge him? I don't know but this year may be Roger's best.
Tiger returns
January 25, 2007
I have been looking forward to this weekend, because I want to see Tiger roar through the year. I want to see Tiger finally dispel all the nay sayers who are in love with Phil.
Tiger will come in with a roar and he will never take his foot off the pedal. Looking forward to an enjoyable golf year.
Beckham will save MLS?
January 12, 2007
David Beckham is coming to MLS. Will soccer become as big as the NFL? No, but it will become more fun to watch.
David is past his prime. He is not in the top 25 players in the world. But that doesn't matter to why LA signed him to play for him.
Beckham has been signed so that people might think about going to see soccer. Now the biggest obstacle for MLS is to put on quality games. If people see good games they are more likely to come back and watch another game. But if the games suck, don't expect to see any more fannies in the seat by the end of the year.
I am rooting that MLS starts putting on quality games. And quit flopping.
Wait till next year
October 30, 2006
Tiger is tired and won't play the Tour Championship this coming week. That is too bad for the tournament, but it will probably be best for golf. Tiger's streak is intack and there will be at least another three months wait, until it either extends or stops.
In the preview to next year everyone will reference the streak and wonder in awe if Tiger could win all four majors. Or maybe he could pull off another Tiger slam and win the Masters and then the US Open. Previews and forecasting will be fun because anything seems possible. Tiger has improved as a competitor and it is a wonder what 2007 will bring.
He did it again
October 2, 2006
Tiger won his sixth straight PGA event for the second time in his career. Can Tiger win seven this time? Can he possibly get even more?
I have no idea if Tiger can win a seventh time, but I would not bet against it. I also would not bet against him to win twelve in a row. Presently Tiger is playing competitive golf at a level that comes once in a lifetime. I would love to see him win for an entire year.
Is Tiger for Real?
September 29, 2006
When will Tiger have an average day on the golf course? Or is 2 strokes better than the rest of the field his normal day? Tiger is playing as though he is possessed. Will he come down to earth?
I really didn't expect Tiger to lead by five shots going into the weekend. I did think he would give it the old college try and be at the top of the leaderboard this weekend. But the way he is playing right now is unbelievable.
Bryon was a Gentleman
September 27, 2006
Bryon Nelson was a gentleman and great golfer. I never got to watch Nelson on tour, but the stories indicate that he was a good guy. Read the stories about him and you will find that he loved golf and had his ego in check. He taught young Tom Watson and had a great swing. The best story I heard was that when he got to the first tee of any new course, he would ask what was the course record and who held it. If he was told the club's pro held the record, he would say, "that is nice, we will keep it that way". Now, that is a guy who knows his own worth.
Tiger is not the only one on the Team
September 25, 2006
Tiger gets alot of flak for the US not winning the Ryder's Cup. He should get some since he has not played his best, however please remember this is a team tournament. Even if Tiger wins that doesn't guarantee that the US wins.
Yes, Tiger is the greatest golfer of this age. And yes he loves to play match play. But in a team event everyone has to contribute for the team to win. And unfortunately the US team of golfers have not played their best in the Ryder's Cup. So, don't blame Tiger for all the loses. Tiger is only a part of the lose, he is not the whole lose.
You have to laugh
September 21, 2006
I have always considered Bobby Knight one of the biggest cry baby coaches. He cries when there is a call against his team. He cries when there is no call on the other team. He cries just to see himself cry on the replays. So I would consider him an expert on cry babies.
Now Bobby Knight, the cry baby expert, has spoken up about Oklahoma's crying about the bad calls in the Oregon game this past weekend. Bobby cried three years ago about a Oklahoma/Texas Tech game where he thought Oklahoma's officiating had given the victory to Oklahoma. He now thinks that maybe the Oklahoma fans and officials understand what bad officiating means. Bobby doesn't feel too sorry for Oklahoma because three years back they told Texas Tech there wasn't anything that could be done.
I just smirk when bad calls happen to everybody else.
Talking Trash
September 20, 2006
Golf is suppose to be the polite sport. The sport where the player calls a foul on themself. Well I guess it is now the trash talking sport, at least in Europe.
An Irish magazine thought it would be funny to talk trash about the American Ryder Cup teams' wives. Huh? What do you think a bunch of guys are going to do when someone insults their wives?
Say oh that was funny. I don't think so.
They will be upset and hopefully not get too mad. But if they smashed a few things, no one could blame them. Of course, in today's world they will sue, and go out and smash the European team.
I expect to see the Americans demolish the Europeans this weekend.
The Race is on
September 18, 2006
Nascar does alot of things that make their sport extremely exciting. It is not just winning the race, there are other things that need to be considered. There is alot of money out there to collect if you can just race as hard as you can and get a little lucky. Yes, racing is luck mixed with skill.
The Chase is a good example of what Nascar does right. I know that golf is trying to immulate this type of championship race. Golf may be able to get a little more fan involvement, but it would take alot to do what Nascar has done.
Even casual fans can be caught up with watching the end of the Nascar year. Can Harvick win?
Match Play
September 15, 2006
Match play is not the way professional golf tournaments are played any more. Stroke play is the standard. This weekend one match play tournament is going on and it illustrates why match play has fallen from the chosen standard.
One of the hardest elements of match play is that the competitors must be paired. For a tournament to be played in four days that forces the tournament to reduce the number of entrees. Then there is the pairing which is subjective and arbitrary. Of course, this adds to the match play drama but also distracts from it. Most tournaments in today's climate need large crowds on the weekends. Fans come out to watch players not necessarily great golf. Therefore, if the biggest draws are eliminated from the tournament before the weekend, the tournament will have a problem drawing fans.
Match Play might be fun for the players, but it is rough on a tournament, that wants to get as many fans as possible.
Wie, Why?
September 14, 2006
I really don't care if Michelle Wie plays in men's tournaments or women's. What I can't stand is that it is supposedly news if she just plays. No, not anymore. The first time it was news, but now it is more than the first, so it is old, not new.
Wie's biggest problem is that at 16 she is physically not ready to challenge a 25 year old male, let alone a 30 year old who is ready to dominate the entire golf world for the next decade. Michelle Wie would be a more interesting story to follow, if she would actually win a couple of tournaments. She has won nothing and seems more interested in making headlines than actually competing.
Golf is not tennis or gymnastics, where the young kids prevail and the old ones go on to motherhood. Golf takes many years to learn to play, and then many years to learn how to win. If Wie is to be a golf pro she will need to hone her skills on winning tournaments, not just turning heads.
Federer another Open Title
September 11, 2006
Roger Federer beat Andy Roddick to capture his third straight US Open Title. Is he the best, today? It would be hard to argue that. Federer has dominated all of his competition, but Nadal. However, Nadal didn't get to the finals this tournament.
Roger's domination of Roddick is a little embarrassing for Andy, eleven losses in twelve meetings. Oh well, Roger beats everyone, not just Andy. Maybe Andy is rising, but I am not sure that Roddick will overcome Federer.
Congrats to Roger who plays good tennis.
Sharapova more than a model
September 9, 2006
Maria Sharapova has some great commericials. She also has a great smile. She could be a top model, if she wanted that more than to be a top tennis player. She can play tennis.
Maria destroyed Amelie Mauresmo yesterday 6-0, 4-6, 6-0. The first and third sets were barely competitive. Amelie looked tenative and out of sync. Maria smacked the ball back and forth with the number one ranked player in the world, but most of the contest Maria was in control. That is a little unusual for her.
Maria is not yet twenty but in 2004 she broke to the top when she won Wimbeldon. However, not until yesterday had she advanced to the finals in one of the majors in to 2005 and 2006. Because of her lack of another title, people were thinking she was just another model who was using tennis to advance her career. That is untrue. Maria is a young and up and coming star. Her biggest foe is the crowd.
In the past there has usually been one or two stars and then the rest. But in the past couple of years and in the years to come there are numerous top flight female tennis players: Sharapova, Mauresmo, Henin-Hardenne, Kim Clijster, Nicole Vaidisova and more.
The final tonight should be exciting with the height difference at least a foot. So, do we call this the battle of the Giant and the muchkin? Or the bigger they are the harder they fall?
Can Henin-Hardenne and Federer win again?
September 8, 2006
Justine and Roger are in the semis again this weekend. Is anyone surprised? No one should be.
The best tennis this year has been played by those two and Nadal. Nadal has already been beaten which was quite a shock, so don't expect too many more. Roger had no problem with Blake, which was a shame. And Henin-Hardenne has proven for a little person she can play with the big girls.
I wouldn't be surprised to see the two in the finals.
Can I root for Roddick?
September 7, 2006
I have always wanted to root for Andy Roddick and believe he will be one of the next great men tennis stars. However, ARod has disappointed me time and again. This past year his horific French defeat in the first round, made me think that this guy is all hype. Of course, he played a little longer in Wimbeldon, but didn't get past the third round. I don't consider anything that he has done this year as an indication of becoming great.
James Blake, who was never hyped like Andy, has shown more indication of breaking out and possibly challenging Federer or Nadal, than Roddick has. Now, that was all true until this week at the US Open. Is Roddick ready to step to the next level? Has Jimbo made him focus on tennis and becoming great?
No matter what Andy has done so far in the Open, I still have the little voice saying, "he is going to blow it." Remember the only championship Roddick has is the US Open, so his play should not be seen as unusual. And he is very capable of losing, he has done alot of that.
But he does have Jimbo as a coach, and he did alot of winning. Maybe that winning will rub off and eventually I will be able to root for the rising US Men's tennis champ.
5 in a Row
September 5, 2006
Can Tiger win 6 more in a row? Most sane people would say no. However, considering what he has been doing the answer is probably. The guy has been unbelievable and please remember how he started the year.
Most people are in awe at the five straight wins Tiger has posted since he came back from his hiatus in May. What they need to remember is what Tiger did to start the year. He won two straight tournaments plus he went on to win the Dubai Desert Classic before he shut down to mourn the loss of his father.
If Tiger hadn't been distracted at the beginning of the year or hadn't shut down for six weeks, could he already have eleven straight wins? There is always that chance. But at this time Tiger is just gearing up and all records will fall in his path.
Classy in Defeat
September 4, 2006
Andre was all class when he lost yesterday, it was a Kodak moment. Most fans did not want to see him lose, however, it was hard to watch him move around the court. He couldn't sit down, he was in so much pain. But he played and gave the fans a memorable match.
Agassi did go a little further than I expected, since I thought that Marcos would beat him. But Andre played hard and won more than he should have. Anyone who watched yesterday's match could tell that it would have taken a miracle for Agassi to advance, he was in pain before he played the first points.
It was classy just to go out and play the match. And tennis fans got something to cheer about. Thank you Andre.
Oops another Win
September 1, 2006
Andre did it again. Actually it was alot tougher at the end than the beginning.
At one point last night, I thought that maybe Marcos Baghdatis had decided that he didn't want to be the one to beat Agassi at his last tournament. But then Baghdatis seemed to pounce on the old man and show that youth would prevail. When Andre was up two sets to none and cruising through the third set, I thought it was going to be an earlier evening than anticipated. And then cam Marcos winning the third set with ease after being down 3-0.
When Baghdatis won the third set and then the fourth, it did seem that maybe Andre had lost something. No one in the crowd seemed to be rooting for Marcos and I know I didn't want Agassi to lose. The victory gives the crowds another day of Andre. This is more than the Open could have hoped for, however, everyone knows they want Andre to play ARod. I am wondering if Roddick can get to that match.
We all know that Andre will work his hardest to beat another young kid.
Davenport dispatches second foe easily
August 31, 2006
Lindsey Davenport played flawlessly as she quickly defeated her second round opponent. Either Davenport is playing remarkable or Jelena Kostanic was overmatched. I think it was just one of those days.
Davenport was in so much pain last Saturday that she couldn't finish her match, of course it was with Justine Henin-Hardenne. Today she looked invincible, but she only played for forty minutes. Hopefully, her next match will be a little more of a struggle. We will see.
Rain, rain go away
August 30, 2006
It rained most of yesterday in NY. That is not unusual for this time of the year. The US Open is played at the end of August and first week of September in NY and it always rain, so why shouldn't it be raining this year. I almost think that if they changed the dates it would still rain.
So my question why aren't there more indoor tennis tournaments? That may help the tournaments keep on schedule. Just a suggestion.
But of course then we couldn't hear the song, "Rain, rain go away, come again another tournament."
This was a good win
August 29, 2006
Andre Agassi won his first round match last night after 4 sets and 3 and a half hours of grueling tennis. This means we get to see him play another match, that is good.
I have never been a big Andre fan, but as he has gotten older I have found him easier to cheer for. I always thought that Agassi was a spoiled, talented tennis player. I thought he wasted his great talent and gave up too easily. He may have been that when he was younger but he has matured and grown into his talent. Now on the verge of his last match he is making a great show.
I would love to see Agassi have a great run at the US Open. This would be great TV and great tennis.
Another Win
August 28, 2006
Tiger won his 52nd tournament in pouring rain and a playoff. This story is getting better every week. He just tied with Byron Nelson for number of wins. Yes, that was Byron's career wins and this is only Tiger's first decade of wins. Tiger has at least two more decades to collect career wins and there is a shot that when he is 50, he could steal a victory from the kids. Just remember that Tiger is coming to his prime. History has shown that the thirties and forties are the best years for professional golfers.
This coming year of golf should be quite exciting with the changes in the schedules and with Tiger playing his best golf ever. I am rooting for a real Grand Slam.
Ooops he did it again
August 21, 2006
Tiger won his twelfth major, yesterday. There was little drama, however it was enjoyable to watch. He did not play a perfect round, however, his good rounds are better than anybody elses' good rounds.
The best thing about this win is that alot of experts have shut up about how great Phil is. I am always offended when people lump good with great. It is not difficult to determine great. Great is unnatural and rare. Good is fun and plentiful. Tiger is great. Phil is good.
Tiger should be on a tear for the next five years. When he does all records will have been broken and all doubt will be erased. I will keep watching.
Federer loses, say it ain't so
August 17, 2006
Andy Murray a 19 year old beat Roger in straight sets yesterday. That means that Federer won't be in the finals at the Western and Southern Financial Group Masters. Is this a sign that Roger is not great anymore?
Don't take much from this loss. This may actually give Roger an advantage in the US Open which is the next tournament. It is not good to lose, however Roger hasn't lost in 55 matches in North America. This will Roger some time to rest and think about the Open.
I figure he will start another winning streak.
The PGA Championship
August 15, 2006
I am looking forward to the PGA Championship this weekend and yes it is because of Tiger. I have watched the past two tournaments that Tiger has played and it has been amazing. And yes I am a Tiger fan, but don't put your head in the sand because you will miss some historic golf.
Before Tiger ever turned pro experts were touting him as the next Nicklaus. Most hype never materializes, but those experts could never dream about how great Eldred would be. Tiger has passed the hype and it is now time to go into the stratsophere.
Will Tiger win the PGA? There is a high possiblity. Of course there are a few other guys who will show up to challenge him.
Stableford scoring
August 10, 2006
The modified Stableford scoring system is used in the PGA event this weekend. Why? This is the only event that uses it.
Is it a gimmick? Is it an advertising ploy? Is it just a break from the routine?
It is probably a little of all three. The PGA needs to figure out ways for people to keep watching golf. When the stories have been told over and over each weekend, the commentators can focus on the unusual scoring instead.
The course is not the opponent in this format. Instead the object is to get as many birdies and eagles as possible. Par is not good enough and bogeys aren't that bad. Sounds like a gimmick.
Gimmick or not it gives the viewer something different to watch.
Another Win for Tiger
August 7, 2006
I followed the Buick Open this past week because Tiger was going to play. On Thursday when I saw he was up on the leaderboard, I thought that he had a chance. This was not just a chance, this was a show of why he is the greatest golfer to date. Tiger for his second straight tournament dominated without prejudice. At present Tiger looks unbeatable.
At the beginning of this year Tiger started off strong with two straight wins, it looked like he was back in form. Then as his father's health got worse Tiger lost a little edge. He then disappeared for nine weeks and came back for the US Open and looked lost.
That was then this is now. At the British Open Tiger played his golf game and won, impressively. Yesterday Tiger shot another 6 under and won the Buick Open by 3 strokes. The question on everyone's mind should be, can he keep this up?
He has won 4 times so far this year in only 11 tournaments. He has enough in the tank to win probably 2 to 3 more times this year. If he does that he will move to 52 or 53 professional career wins, tying or surpassing Byron Nelson. And he won't be 31 until the end of the year.
I don't think the question is will Tiger pass Jack in most majors. Or will he pass Snead's 82 victories. I think the question is when will he pass Jack's and Snead's records. Tiger is a great golfer and we should enjoy watching him in our lifetime.
Nice to honor Billie Jean
August 4, 2006
It was very nice to see that the US Tennis is honoring Billie Jean by putting her name on one of the courts at the National Center in New York. Billie Jean King helped bring women's tennis into the public's eye. She was one of the first tennis players I remember watching. I rooted for her at times and rooted against her also. She had personality and brought her heart to every game. A spectator always felt she giving her best and never disappointed.
Nice honor.
Cycling is in a Freefall
July 28, 2006
Landis has too much testosterone in his system. How is that? There are many reasons and possibilities.
My problem with this story is not that Landis possibly cheated. My problem is why is the story being leaked before both samples have been tested. Cycling seems to try all of their riders in the public without all of the facts. That is how they handled the supposed violations prior to the start of the Tour de France this year. This is too coincidental.
Yes, there is alot of doping in professional cycling. Everyone is trying to figure out something that will give them enough power to finish the races in first place. Some of the things being done are questionably legal and some are just science fiction.
Cycling needs to get its act together and figure out what they will allow and get reliable tests that can enforce those rules. This only fuels my speculation about Lance and drugs.
What is the fuss about Tiger?
July 27, 2006
I can't figure out why everyone is shocked by the way Tiger won the Open. Or why everyone thinks that now Tiger will abandon the driver. Do these people understand anything about pro golf?
Pro golf is about winning tournaments, at least to Tiger it is. Tiger doesn't need the money or the records. All Tiger wants is wins and major wins ontop of that. So, if Tiger believes he will win by hitting his two iron or 3 wood off the tee and then a 3 or 5 iron to the hole, that is what he will do. Also, if he thinks a driver into a big fairway will produce a better result that is what he will do. For Tiger it isn't about the tool it is about the result.
I can only conclude that people are so fascinated about Tiger's driver use because it never occurred that someone would say, "I don't have to be the longest". Tiger already knows he can outdrive these other golfers, but pro golf isn't about driving. Pro Golf is about wins.
Danica Patrick says no to NASCAR
July 26,2006
Someone finally said no to NASCAR, I am surprised. NASCAR is a huge and expanding sport, but Danica thinks for her it is better to stay as an INDY driver. She maybe right.
Danica is the most visible sign for Indy racing, so for her to stay with Indy is great for them. If she would have left, Indy racing would become that obscure sport it has been for the past two decades. But she alone will not make Indy racing as big as NASCAR. Indy racing has a niche and presently that niche includes Patrick as one of its stars.
NASCAR does not need Patrick at this time, therefore they really aren't out anything. Patrick would have been a highlight, but there are big NASCAR headlines without Danica. So, for the time being it is best for Danica to stay with Indy racing and then in the future go to NASCAR.
She will go when it is right for her.
Landis did have a good Tour
July 25, 2006
Floyd Landis won the Tour de France, however, it was a very tainted win. Congrats to Landis. However, why were the top riders thrown under the bus before the Tour started?
I like the Tour de France, but this year I stopped watching when someone decided to throw out the best riders. I question why the top riders from last year, except of course Lance, were the ones disqualified. Isn't that just a little too concidental?
I am not naive and I don't think that cycling is free of drugs. However, I do think there is a pretty level playing field, because everyone is doing the same things. I find it to be detrimental to the integrity of cycling to decide to just get rid of the top riders.
I think the Tour should have been cancelled or delayed. I just don't think it is fair to say that this is a Tour winner when the best were not there.
Tiger didn't disappoint
July 24, 2006
Thank you Tiger for what was a wonderful display of great golf, this weekend. I was rooting for Tiger and I was not disappointed. He played smart and he won his 11th major.
Before the Open started everyone couldn't say enough about Phil being just as great as Tiger. That Phil had turned the corner and would be on the leaderboard with Tiger. Where was Phil this weekend?
Tiger played the course with grace and patience that show he has matured and is aiming for being the greatest golfer ever. The rest of the field are going to watch him break records that don't yet exist.
The Britsh Open will be fun
July 19, 2006
I am looking forward to the British Open this week. I have always liked Tiger and would love to see him win a few more. And since I really don't root for Phil but to choke, I think this week should be fun.
Experts want to say that Phil is Tiger's equal. I think that is what makes me root for him to fail. Phil is a nice guy, but unfortunately for all those vaunted experts that want to put him on Tiger's level, he falls short.
I wouldn't care if people compared Phil to Trevino, Player, Palmer or Watson. However, there are only 3 superior golf legends and they are Jones, Nickalus and Woods. Those are the 3 greatest and there is all the rest. There is no shame in being in the 2nd tier but just remember the top tier is very exclusive. Tiger is in the top tier and will be remembered as one of the greatest.
The Belgian Duel
July 7, 2006
Henin-Hardenne and Clisters is always a good match to watch. I like both of the players. It is a shame that Justine has won the most recent matches and people forget that Kim is her equal.
Though Clisters says she is readying for retirement, her play yesterday didn't look that way. But I guess some people leave when they can still play while others stay too long. Kim will be long gone before Justine considers retirement and their duels will be the talking points throughout her career.
It is a shame that these two don't get to play each other every tournament. But I guess that would get tiresome after a while.
The old boys win
July 6, 2006
I had no expectations for the French in the World Cup, and after their first game I figured I was right. Their second game against Korea wasn't much better. Yes, they beat Togo to get to the round of 16, but that didn't give much credence that they were going anywhere.
They went out and stomped on Spain and I figured that was their last hooray. However, they played the best game in the entire Cup against Brazil. France was great.
I thought after that game, if the old guys can play like that they could be the champs. I didn't think they would, though. But they got themselves into the final.
I didn't think Zidane would be playing this long. But he may get another World Cup before he retires.
Rooney a Savior
July 5, 2006
Rooney was to be the savior of the English, but he went off course. Wayne hot head Rooney received a red card for stomping on another player and then England promptly lost in penalty kicks. That was the worse rescue mission I have ever witnessed.
Does Rooney know a savior is suppose to win? Oh well, there is always 2010 and by then maybe Rooney will know how to control his temper. I doubt it.
I didn't expect Rooney to score all of England's goals and single handedly will them into the finals. However, I did expect that if he was going to play, that he would rally the troops and give a good fight. I just forgot that Rooney likes to fight more than play football.
Good Match
June 30, 2006
Germany against Argentina should be a great match. My nephew is a German fan but he has great respect for the Argentines. My niece says both should win. This is a good match with two quality teams. This is a great example as to why the World Cup is such a great sports event.
There are eight teams left and all but maybe one, Ukraine, have legitimate shots to win it all. That is amazing.
I am looking forward to the German match. Can the home team win in Berlin again? Or will one of the most creative scoring teams put in enough goals to advance? It will be fun.
Is Roddick ready to Win?
June 29, 2006
Andy wasn't impressive in his first round yesterday. Janko Tipsarevic played very well for three sets. It was a shame he couldn't keep it up in the fourth set.
If Andy doesn't serve better, he might find himself going home early. Is this guy really the best American?
I have my doubts.
Venus looked great
June 28, 2006
I just watched Venus destroy Bethanie. Venus looked better than she did in the French Open. In the French she was powerful and only lost to Nicole which was a very good match.
Bethanie Mattek's outfit was a little distracting, but Venus was able to dispatch the kid in very quick fashion. Bethanie looked outclassed and overpowered. And Venus was elegant.
What a Flop
June 27, 2006
The Italian was not fouled in the box yesterday. I screamed at the tv when the penalty shot was called for the Italians. It was so apparent to everyone watching that the Italian tripped over the Australian and he could have stopped himself.
This play did not merit a penalty kick. There should have been overtime and then probably penalty kicks to decide the winner. I only know that the Italians should not have won by that insipid call.
Bend it like Beckham
June 26, 2006
Yes, I saw the movie "Bend it like Beckham" and thought it was quite entertaining. However, I really didn't understand the title until watching this year's world cup. Beckham really does wonders with the ball.
Beckham's kick in the first game, which the Paraguay's captain put in the net, was pretty. It didn't bend as much as he probably intended but it did go in for a goal and a win for England. Yesterday's free kick was a little prettier. Considering that Beckham was not feeling up to par, you had to say that made it even better.
Of course, my nephew who didn't want to watch the losers lose ran back into the room when the rest of us started screaming. Then he yelled at the tv, "Now, will those silly announcers shut up about Beckham not being any good." We were at home, thankfully. The volume that five people make is incredible.
The whole family are rooting that "Eng a land" gets to the final. And of course, we are gladdened that they haven't played their best and are still winning. We want to see more bending, Beckham.
Ghana advances
June 23, 2006
The US played good for about the first half yesterday, then the wall came tumbling down. Why did the US not keep the pressure up, yesterday?
Yes there was a bad call. But the bad penalty kick did not cost the US the game. The US lack of intensity and speed cost them yesterday game. And it cost them the Czech game.
All the talk about a fast, creative offense from the US never showed itself in Germany. The US looked old and staid that is why they are not in the round of 16.
Can the US win?
June 22, 2006
Can the US beat Ghana? Maybe.
But remember the Czech Republic destroyed the US and Ghana beat the Czechs handily. So, if the US don't make it to the round of sixteen will everyone stop watching the cup?
I don't think so. At the beginning, I didn't give the US much hope of make the second round, even though they were ranked fifth in the world. And my interest in the World Cup are the powerhouses and a couple of surprises. So, if the US lose I will still be watching the cup and hoping that Ghana and Ecuador go a little further. And of course rooting for the English and Germans to possibly meet the Brazilians or Argentines.
There is alot of soccer to play, no matter how the US fare.
Hartford takes the Stanley Cup
June 21, 2006
When I moved to Connecticut in 1980 the Hartford Whalers were in their second year. I didn't follow them but considered it nice that Connecticut had one professional sports team. The Whalers never amounted to much, but had fans and I knew a few. Then in 1997, the Whalers moved south.
Nobody cried much. Connecticut is so close to NY that most of the hockey fans follow the Islanders or Rangers. The Rangers and Islanders have a few highlights in their history. Now the Whalers have a highlight.
The team that left Hartford became the Hurricanes and they won the Stanley Cup. There are Hartford fans that are happy their team finally won. They just wish it would have been at home.
So is Phil really a Tiger?
June 20, 2006
Yes, I do like underdogs. However, I don't and never have liked Phil Mickelson. Why? He just rubs me as someone who thinks that everyone is going to tell him how great he is. Even when he doesn't deserve it.
So, I had no interest in watching the US Open this past weekend. I only happened to see the last hole of golf on Sunday. That was fun. I have had to listen to all these wise golf experts proclaim that Phil is as good as Tiger for the past year, and I hope now some of them will shut up.
Phil is a very good golfer just like Gary Player and Tom Watson. But Gary and Tom were not Jack and for my money Phil is not Tiger.
Rooney Plays
June 15, 2006
Wayne Rooney was hurt not that long ago, but yesterday in the second half against Trinidad he returned to the soccer field. He didn't play all that great, but he did energize the crowd. It was good to see him but I still wonder if it is for the best.
England needs something, or they will not make it to the finals. Is Rooney the answer? Who knows. But it is fun to watch.
Will Germany get to the finals?
June 15, 2006
Most experts don't think that Germany has enough to win the Cup. Of course, please remember they are the host country and that is a good.
In their first game the German's defense was suspect. But yesterday against a very hated opponent, they showed that they would defend the home goal above everything else. Maybe that is why they couldn't get the ball to go in on those makeable shots.
Finally and with my niece and nephew cheering loudly, the ball finally found the net. With that lone goal they should have enough to make it to the next round. But the question remains, do they have enough to make the finals?
I will be watching.
The Cup will not just be given to Brazil
June 14, 2006
From all the publicity of the World Cup, one had to deduce that Brazil just needed to show up and they would be give the Cup. I think the games are more competive than that.
Yes, Brazil does look very good, however most of these teams look good. There are a few losers like the US and Poland, but Croatia, Switzerland and Trinidad both showed very tough defenses. The Czech Republic looked like they can score and defend against anyone.
Brazil may win the Cup but it won't be a walk in the park.
Which was it?
June 13, 2006
Did the Americans just play awful? Or was the Czech Republic awsome? Which one?
My take is the Americans played very slow and unmotivated. And after the Czechs scored the second goal, they just gave up. But the Czech are a very good team.
If this was the best effort from the Americans, go home now and don't embarrass anyone again. However, if this was just a bad game, forget and come out and attack.
This team has been hyped as speedy and creative. They better come out on Saturday running or this will be a very short World Cup.
World Cup or French Open?
June 12, 2006
Last Thursday I watched both of the women's semis in the French Open. They were both quite compelling, and I was rooting for Nicole. I had watched the early rounds during the week, but on Friday World Cup began. What should I watch?
Friday wasn't hard to choose because the French Open was tape delayed, a stupid idea. And of course neither of those matches were very interesting compared to Germany's quest for the Cup. But on Saturday it was a little hard to choose between watching Justine or England.
Though I wanted to watch Justine, the rest of the family weren't going to let that happen. England was playing and we were all watching England. I do prefer to watch soccer, but the major tennis tournaments are usually very exciting to watch.
The World Cup was the choice viewing in our household. How about yours?
NBC is silly
June 9, 2006
Why are the men's semifinals for the French Open on tape delay? Yesterday ESPN2 had the women's semis live. I watched the teenager Nicole collapse in the second set, with no delay. And I saw Justine totally dominate Kim, which was unbelievable.
Today NBC is broadcasting the French Open and it doesn't start coverage until 10 am EST. Federer's match started at 7 am EST and is already over. This is silly. I can't watch this live, I have to go to the internet to get updates.
In this day in age I think that NBC needs to get real and do live broadcasts and then they can replays later in the day to fit other people schedules.
Nicole will be a star
June 7, 2006
Yes I saw Nicole Vaidisova beat Venus yesterday and was quite impressed. I was rooting for Venus because she has always been one of my favorites. Nicole will join that group.
I had never heard of Vaidisova before the match and had no idea where she was from. But of course after her win yesterday her life history is just a click away. I think that she will surpass most of the players in todays game. She was fun to watch.
She is young and will have days when her imaturity make her do stupid things, but her strength and force will give her wins even on bad days. I am looking forward to years of watching Nicole.
Is Venus Old?
June 6, 2006
Venus Williams lost to a 17 year old. Is this a sign that Venus is just old?
I thought that Venus would be the greatest women tennis player. Venus was strong and hit harder than most of the women/girls. So, there was no reason to doubt that she would dominate the tennis courts for years. Actually, she and her sister did, but Venus never became the player I thought she would be.
Yes, injuries and outside events have slowed down her domination but can she ever became the greatest? After watching her play against Nicole and lose, I have to think that for her to win she will have to change a little. I don't think that Venus will be able to win by being the strongest and hardest hitter anymore.
Venus should start playing a little slower and more thoughtful, if she is going to beat these fast hard hitting new stars to be. And in watching Nicole hit, she will be a star.
Why soccer is fun to watch
June 5, 2006
It is very simple why I like to watch soccer on TV; soccer is fast.
When you sit down to watch soccer you know exactly how long you are going to be on the couch. There is none of this stupid stopping the clock when a player has a hangnail. Usually it takes a broken bone to add very much time to a game. Blood may add maybe a minute or two but not much more.
The clock stopping is one of the worse parts about american football and basketball. No stopage makes the game more exciting and fun to watch. If there was stopage I would have to flip through commericials which is boring.
Speed makes soccer a great sport to watch on TV.
Can Blake Keep Winning
June 2, 2006
I just watched James Blake advance to the third round in the French Open. He is fun to root for.
The question always is can an American win a major tennis tournament. Actually, this year the question should be can anyone beat Roger Federer? If Federer is in the tournament he will be in the finals, he is just that good.
I am tired of watching Federer and would like to see a new face. James is a new face, so why not him. There is Nadal, but he isn't from Trumbull, CT and Blake is.
Okay, that is why I like Blake; he is a Connecticut native.
Will Roddick ever Win?
May 31, 2006
Okay, I believed the whole story that Andy Roddick was going to bring back the glory of Men's Tennis. I was duped.
Andy didn't get out of the first round in the French Open again, what a disappointment. ARod, as some like to call him, had alot of hype and he has not lived up to it.
Roger Federer is one year older than Andy and Roger turned pro two years before Roddick. Federer has 37 single wins while Andy has only 20. Roger needs to win the French to complete the grand slam, while Andy has only won the US Open.
Roger and Andy have faced each other eleven times and Roddick has won only one time. Of course the question is: how many more times will these two meet before Roddick hangs it up? And the second question is: will ARod win any of those matches?
Can Nadal repeat?
May 30, 2006
Rafael Nadal won his first French Open last year and won his record setting 54th clay service match in the first round of the Open yesterday. Will he ever be beat on clay?
Of course, he will and it could be this year. Roger Federer is no slouch. It would be nice to see Nadal win, since I am tired of Federer winning.
My problem is with people who want to put Nadal is the same sentence as Bjorn Borg. Did these people ever watch Borg? Borg was a machine.
There was a time when Men's tennis was a top sporting event. Borg, Connors and McEnroe were great stars. And there were even minor characters such as Vilas and Nastase. These men were icons and unbelievable sports figures. Bjorn Borg retired at the age of 25 simply because it wasn't fun anymore to beat the inferior. I was a Borg fan. But I thought that Johnny Mac was fun and Jimmy was so blue collared, I had to root for him at times.
Nadal could be a Borg, but don't put him there until he wins a few more French Opens and trounces Federer. Then we can discuss whether he is as good as Borg. But not until then.
Ronaldo fat?
May 29, 2006
People think Ronaldo is fat? Why? Makes no sense to me. Ronaldo is one of those fun guys to watch play. Of course, I am a fan of Brazil. So, that could taint my views on this subject.
I am just hoping that Ronaldo is fit enough to play and that Brazil has a good Cup.
US wins with the B team
May 27, 2006
The US World Cup team played a friendly against a very young Venezuela team. They played mostly backups, so there wouldn't be any more injuries. And they won 2-0. Nice win.
It has to make the team to feel good to get a win when they are playing with their backups. Of course, it should make everyone feel good that the backups may be able to step in for some of the starters. This may be a fun World Cup for the US.
The injuries are mounting
May 26, 2006
The US World Cup team lost another player. Cory Gibbs is out with a knee injury and Gregg Berhalter is in.
This may not be the star of the team, however, this could be just the start of injuries. But it could be the end of the injuries. One never knows.
In World Cup injuries determine the winners. Hopefully, the US can get pass these injuries.
France fighting inhouse?
May 25, 2006
The French goalkeepers are supposedly not happy with each other. If you don't want the French to go too far that may be a good sign. However, it may just be a star saying he is a star.
The story says that Gregory Coupet the reserve goalkeeper isn't happy with not being the starter. Most professional players don't want to be backup, aren't they suppose to? If a player is content to be a backup, I think that is more of a problem, than thinking they should be the starter.
It isn't easy figuring out who should be the starter, but I think I want all the players to think they are starters.
Hopefully Reyna is alright
May 24, 2006
Claudio Reyna left yesterday's game after only 15 minutes. Was that a precaution or a sign of what is to come?
This was the first national game for the US captain this year. Will it also be his last? If the US is to have any success they need Reyna to play. And he needs to play well not tentatively.
I hope it was just a little tightness and not anything else.
Can England win the Cup?
May 23, 2006
If you listen to Sven-Goran Eriksson, England's World Cup's coach, there is no mistake that England will be in the finals. Of course, there is still that little doubt coming from those who say they need Rooney. And Rooney will not play in the World Cup.
England may have enough to win if Owen is healthy. England has an interesting team and they just may have enough. Let the games begin, soon.
Can Landon Donovan be a star
May 22, 2006
Can Landon Donovan become a soccer star but play in the MSL? That would be the best thing for the MSL.
Landon has chosen to stay in the states and play MSL, which usually means the player is not going to be great. All great soccer players don't play in the MSL until they are too old for the other leagues. Donovan is the exception.
Landon will be playing hopefully an important role in the US games in the World Cup. If he has a great run he could put his picture on the "Wheaties Box" and become an American sports star. That is probably the MSL's big hope.
It would be great to see that happen.
The Oilers are winning?
May 20, 2006
The Edmonton Oilers are still winning games? How?
The goalie has played well. And they have scored just enought. But it is surprising that they are still standing in the West finals.
I was more shocked, though, when I read that the Oilers are the only team left that has won the cup. So, will there be a new cup winner this year? Or will the Oilers take it home again?
Time will tell and it should be fun.
A foregone ending
May 19, 2006
Everyone already knows that Barbaro is going to win the Preakness and then go to the Belmont and lose a chance at the triple crown.
The scene is set. Brother Derek will give Barbaro a challenge this weekend but will lose by a nose. Then there will be talk about a triple crown winner until the Belmont. At the Belmont there will be two rested horses who will beat Barbaro on the last turn and again there won't be a triple crown winner. Isn't that the way it has played out for the past few years?
I don't think so. I don't think Barbaro will win the Preakness. Look for Sweetnorthernsaint or Brother Derek to pull away on the final turn.
Oilers move on?
May 17, 2006
Edmonton advances to the West Finals. Who would have thought?
Probably noone, except diehard Edmonton fans.
It is unbelievable to most fans. However, the way the Oilers have been playing, maybe it wasn't a fluke when they beat the Red Wings.
US play begins June 12
May 16, 2006
The US starts playing June 12th in the World Cup. I would love to see them get pass the first round. I am not really sure they have enough scoring to do that. However, if the games are competitive and they keep the scores low anything is possible.
I am looking forward to watching Landon Donovan and Claudio Reyna. Let's hope that they play well and there is something to watch.
The Oilers are still playing
May 15, 2006
I can't believe that the Oilers are still playing and the Devils aren't. How is it that the eighth seeded team has taken a 3-2 lead in its second series? The Oilers ousted the top team and now they have overtaken the Sharks in the only second series still playing.
I thought that the Oilers would play tough but not this tough. And I also thought that the Devils would be playing for Cup at the end. Wrong again.
Annika is human
May 13, 2006
Annika Sorenstam missed her second cut in her entire career. Actually that is good for women's golf. It is good to see that it is not a foregone conclusion that Annika will be playing on the weekends.
There are new faces appearing on the LPGA tour and maybe a couple of these will give Sorenstam a rival. Since Sorenstan emerged as the premiere woman golfer, there has been a need for some obstacles for her to beat.
This isn't the end of Annika, but it may be a wakeup call that she still needs to improve. That would be good, too.
The colorful sport
May 12, 2006
Golf is a colorful sport. The "uniforms" don't have mud on them, so they aren't dirty like football or baseball. No one has to dress like someone else, so they wear what looks best on them.
Phil may not look good in an orange pink pair of pants, however a young Colombian Camilo Villegas looks great. Tiger always looks good in that Stanford red shirt. Adam Scott can wear a yellow and black striped shirt and not look out of place.
Every color of the rainbow will be on display any Sunday on the PGA, which makes golf colorful and enjoyable to watch.
I can't believe the Devils
May 11, 2006
I thought the Devils were on a long run to the Stanley Cup. Now, it looks like they will be heading home very quickly. How did that happen so quickly?
Did the Devils just overlook the Hurricanes? Or are the Devils just not that good?
I have to think that the Devils just didn't comprehend the Hurricanes ability to beat their brains in. If not, I will have to consider that the Rangers weren't that good at all this year.
Devils please win one.
Can the Sabres Win?
May 10, 2006
Can Buffalo keep winning to upset Ottawa? That would be a little shocking. Ottawa is down 0-2 and headed for Buffalo. Ottawa did win the season's series against Buffalo, however, in April the Sabres won both games.
So in the last four games these teams have played, Buffalo has won all four. Can they keep it up? Always a chance, but don't count the Senators out.
When will Golf return?
May 9, 2006
Yes, I like to watch golf on TV. And I prefer to watch just the shots not the commentary. But I also like a little personality.
When Tiger is missing usually there isn't much to watch. I don't like Vijay or Phil, so I need someone like Padriag or Parnevik or Sergio to play well for me to watch. It looks like I may have to wait until next month to watch golf.
Bring on the Memorial.
They will play better
May 8, 2006
The Devils will play better tonight. The Devils didn't play much of Saturday's game. The Hurricanes got off to a fast start and the Devils tried to conserve their energy for a fight they can win. Once it got out of hand the devils were never going to win and they have six more games, so don't be foolish.
These Devils aren't foolish and they will play better tonight and I think they will win. Of course I think they have the inside edge on getting to the finals.
Can these Devils be beat?
May 6, 2006
The Devils begin a new series today against a worthy opponent. But will these devils have a fight?
The first series for the NJ was a sweep of the Rangers, which looked more like a romp. The Devils were never pushed, except when the Rangers made stupid mistakes. Brodeur is playing very well and in hockey playoffs, the goalkeeper wins the series. So, will these Devils have a fight or another sweep.
How about just some good hockey.
NASCAR gets it
May 5, 2006
NASCAR does it again. NASCAR knows how to promote their sport. Next year they will name a race after a fan. How great is that?
Most organizations think they understand what fans want. They think fans want prizes. Now, that may be right if the prizes are alot of money with no extra taxes. But what most fans want is recognition.
In minor league baseball the scoreboard will flash names during the game, and fans go wild. So, when NASCAR names a race "The Your Name Here 400 presented by Crown Royal" can you imagine how crazy everyone will go? This is an advertising coup.
NASCAR is always on the edge. And I guess that is why it is so popular.
What are their names?
May 4, 2006
The Kentucky Derby is Saturday and that is something I like to watch. I grew up watching harness racing at the county fairs in Illinois with my grandparents. My grandparents went to The Hambeltonian every year when it was in DuQuoin.
Harness racing was fun, but I really enjoyed the running races. They were much faster. But the fun in horse racing is trying to pick the winner. And I have a fool's proof way of picking the winner.
I like the horse by their name. A cool name is more important than their record.
Bob and John is an ucky name. Lawyer Ron and Brother Derek are just run of the mill names. Jazil reminds me of a flower. Barbaro reminds me of the Jane Fonda moive. That is just a few of the names I don't like this year.
The name I like is "Steppenwolfer". I like wolves so this is a cool name, enough said.
The roster is announced
May 3, 2006
The US announced their World Cup roster and there are not any surprises. Also, there is no surprise that the US will need good goalkeeping to stay in the games. The US doesn't have a great scorer, so of course, they need good goalkeeping.
I just hope that the US plays well. I don't expect them to go very deep in Cup play, but I do like good soccer games.
I'd hate to be a Red Wings Fan
May 2, 2006
If my team, out classed every team during the season and then went out in the first round to the 8th seeded team, I think I would cry. A top team just doesn't lose to the worse team in the first round. In football, they make sure that doesn't happen by having byes for the first round. In the NBA, the series is seven games which makes it almost impossible for a number one to lose.
The Detroit Red Wings have been very good during the season, for the last three seasons but in the postseason, they have gone out too early. This year, the best team in the NHL is going home before the end of the first round. How embarrassing is that?
I guess the only thing worse would be: not to be in the World Series, for I don't know how many centuries, like an unnamed team in Chicago. I think I know how Red Wing fans feel.
Have injuries already given England a loss?
May 1, 2006
England thought they had a real shot in the 2006 World Cup. Since, it only comes every four years, there is alot of cheering during these games, but England fans are already starting to quiet down.
Michael Owen, who he has been a star since '98, gave English fans a cheering target. However, he has been hurt most of the year and that is not good during Cup year. Fans are hoping he will quickly shine this year, but it usually takes time to recover from injury.
Now, Wayne Rooney is hurt, the young 20 year old star. Before he broke his foot English fans had visions of a dominating cup performance. Now, fans are startled awake to find that he may not even play.
It is a shame when an injury weakens a team. As a soccer fan I prefer to watch the best and of course, when they are fast and flashy, it is more fun.
Here's hoping that Rooney plays in the cup this year.
A disappointing season
April 30, 2006
I thought the Rangers were having a pretty good year. In February they won every game. At the break, they were 35-15-8. For a team that hadn't made the playoffs in the last decade, that was impressive. Fans started to think they could make a stab at the cup again.
This build up came to a screaching fall off the cliff yesterday, when the Devils swept the Rangers out of the playoffs. Not winning one game in the first round is the worse thing that could have happened all year. Do Ranger fans have to wait another decade for a run at the cup?
Can the Rangers win one?
April 29, 2006
I can't believe the Rangers haven't won in the playoffs, yet. During most of the season the Rangers played good hockey. What has happened?
The Devils are a better team. Everyone picked the Devils to win this series. But I never considered that this would be the sweep series.
Rangers please win: one. Thank you.
The Stars are Buried alive???
April 28, 2006
No one gave the Avalanche a glimmer of hope to beat the Stars. If the Avalanche can win one more game, they will oust the favored Stars in the first round. Now, that is why playoffs are fun.
The Stars have clearly been a better team during the season. The Avalanche have been inconsistent. But when the playoffs start none of that matters.
I am rooting for one more win from the Avalanche.
Is Golf a feel good sport?
April 27, 2006
This weekend golf has two feel good stories. The LPGA has a teenager playing her first tournament, so her dying mother can watch her and spread the word about breast cancer. And the PGA is playing in New Orleans and trying to put money back into the city.
How can Golf put out two feel good stories in the same weekend? The top three pro sports barely put out one feel good story a season.
Pro sports are all about the players and their egos, which is why fans watch. Baseball's image is the steroid driven players who smack incredible homeruns. Football's image is the overweight driven players who smack quarterbacks around. Basketball's image is the crazed driven players who smack each other to the floor. So, how did golf get the image of the driving golfer smacking a golf ball for charities?
Are golfers really more social conscious? Or are they better at image making?
Here we go again
April 26, 2006
Are the Red Wings going to be the biggest bust in the playoffs, again?
In the NBA playoffs the top teams don't get beat in the first round. Usually, they don't get beat in the second round either.
The NHL playoffs don't always seem to hold form. And in the past, it seems that the Red Wings don't come out on top when they should.
Is it better to be in the playoffs? Or is it better not to make the playoffs, if your fate is to go out in the first round?
Soccer will be here soon
April 25, 2006
World Cup will begin play on June 9th. I only hope that the US is competitive.
When I began to pay attention to World Cup it was embarrassing to watch the USA team. I preferred to watch the South American teams. Brazil and Argentinia always play good games and they aren't overmatched.
As the years have passed I can now watch the USA games without hiding my eyes. But I still prefer to watch Brazil with their precision passing. I think they play pretty soccer which is so different than the Germans who almost play tackle football.
I look forward to the World Cup this summer, it will be fun.
All tied up
April 24, 2006
The four hockey series that have played two games are all tied up one apiece. Does that mean there is parity in the NHL? Or does it mean there are alot of novice goalies?
Will this mean that there will be drama throughout the playoffs? Or that someone is going to get lucky and upset a good team?
We will see. That is why they play the games.
What were they thinking?
April 23, 2006
I thought that the Rangers and Devils would be an interesting playoff series. The devils have been a professional, but not always an exciting team, for the last few years. The Rangers are a polarizing team that has enjoyed success in the past. Therefore, I had concluded that it would be fun to watch the professionals play the feisty wannabees of yesterday.
If yesterday's game is any hint at what the series is going to be, then I was deadwrong. These Rangers are just a bunch of school boys who are entirely over matched by the pros.
Please Rangers try to play hockey. I always thought the devils were better, but I didn't think the Rangers were babies.
Playoffs off to a great start
April 22, 2006
Overtime and then a double overtime, what could be more exciting. Why are playoffs more fun? Are teams really more evenly matched? Or is it the win or go home mindset?
Whatever it is, just keep it up. Playoff hockey brings upsets which then brings drama. That is a fan's dream.
Watching Golf
April 21, 2006
Watching golf makes me think it is spring. I think that is because the grass is green, the sky is blue and no one is wearing a wintercoat.
Golf may actually improve tv watching next year with all the changes they are making. Especially if the coverage on the golf channel has more shots and less commericials. I don't want to watch commercials or interviews. I want to see golf shots and less talk.
This fan wants to see the players play. I don't want to hear somebody tell me that it is a tough shot.
Lacrosse is a deadly sport
April 20, 2006
My nephew went to a lacrosse summer camp a couple of years ago. His parents told him he had to do something during the summer besides play video games.
He signed up for a lacrosse camp and of course, he had to have equipment to play. His parents purchased this "armour" that all young players must wear. The indians created this game as a learning tool for war. When I saw his outfit, I thought he did look like a warrior.
The thing that struck me was the warning on the paddings. It went something like this: "Warning these pads will not prevent death."
My sister didn't find that a very comforting thought.
Hockey season has finally arrived
April 19, 2006
I am not a huge hockey fan, however the hockey playoffs are fun. I am not one that says there are too many teams getting into the playoffs, actually it is just about right. I think that the season is too long and there should only be playoffs, in hockey.
The excitement to see if Detroit can actually advance past the first round. They can win the most games, but they seem to have problems in the playoffs. Why is that?
Devils against Rangers hopefully will be exciting. Now, is the time to follow hockey. Great.
Phil is not Tiger
April 17, 2006
I can't believe all these "jump on the wagon" golf fans who want to proclaim that Phil is Tiger. How far off can you be? Phil is not Tiger and he has no chance of being Tiger.
Phil is a nice good golfer. Who likes to hit the ball and wants to be good.
Tiger is a great golfer and will be greater in his thirties. Tiger doesn't just want to be great. Tiger intends on being great. His intensity to make a perfect shot each time is what makes him great. Phil's desire not to make mistakes is what makes him just a good golfer.
Tiger has not yet reached his height of success. Most golfers get better in their 30's, so we will see in the next ten years just how high Tiger will go. It should be fun.
Watch some Rugby it is fun
April 16, 2006
Last week I watched some rugby matches, and it was an extremely pleasant experience. I don't understand all the rules, yet, but from what I gather there are not as many rules as in "American football". I did love the speed of the game.
The ball moved around all over the field from player to player. There was no lull in the action. There was constant action. The only time play stopped was when the referee was knocked out. That is what I call a relaxing afternoon.