Archive for October, 2008
Top 10 Dumbest Things Pro Athletes Do
Jason Oconnor asked:
There seems to be an endless stream of idiotic things professional athletes do. I guess if you put a bunch of young men together, give them a boat-load of money and lots of free time, what can you expect? When beautiful women, the media and the luxuries of life are thrown at them, their cockiness and stupidity are only amplified. Here are my top ten, but of course there are lots more. However, we must always remember, they are only human too.
1. Me Make Good Play! Ever see NFL players beat their chest like a gorilla after they just made a good play? I guess it’s a Tarzan thing or something, but they look kinda ridiculous. Maybe if I was out there on the field and I was a 170-pound kicker watching a defensive lineman beating his chest after a sack, I may be a little intimidated, but overall, they look really silly doing it. (I attended a professional all-women’s football game this year and saw a 350-pound woman do this, which was particularly scary.)
2. The God Factor, Part I I hate it when players point up to Heaven and thank God after a good play too. Bear in mind however, that I am not criticizing religion or anyone for having faith in God. But this just looks lame. It happens a lot in MLB for some reason. A strikeout will cause Pedro Martinez to do the chest-touch and double-index-finger-point to God as if he and God were chatting earlier about possible pitching strategies in the locker room, and the strategy they chose together worked, so he had to personally thank God using his direct line.
3. The God Factor, Part II Locker rooms, sidelines, dugouts, bullpens, and court sides are often full of praying men. One question: “If you are praying to win, and your opponent is praying to win, who does God choose?
4. Bad Boys, Bad Boys, Whatcha Gonna Do When They Come For You? Why do pro jocks get arrested for drug and/or gun possession so much? Of course, lots of people do this one unfortunately, we just happen to hear about the famous athletes who do. C’mon guys, keep the drugs at home, stop driving while high, and for crying out loud, stop packin’! You don’t need a gun. Who’s going to harm you? You’re six six and weigh 275 pounds!
5. It Wasn’t Me! Telling Congress you don’t do steroids, then getting caught doing steroids is pretty dumb. I loved watching the clips where Rafael Palmero sat pointing a finger at the Congressional hearing stating with disgust and confidence, “I do not take steroids.” And then the next clip showing him apologizing profusely for taking steroids.
6. I Love You To Death Murdering ex-lovers doesn’t happen very often fortunately, but my list wouldn’t be complete without at least mentioning O.J.
7. Rabbits It seems that there are a lot of NBA players out there who use the phrase, “My baby’s mom” a little too often. And there’s too many pro athletes’ offspring introducing their buddies as “My brother from another mother.” Ever hear of a condom?
8. How Much Bling Bling Do You Need!? It’s fascinating to watch professional athletes blow through all their millions in their first year or two and then have nothing left at retirement, which is usually only a few years later. How many fifty-year-olds are still playing pro sports? Not many (minus golfers of course, who will drag their canes and oxygen tanks with them on the fairway). So why don’t pro athletes save a couple of bucks?
9. Love My Hog It’s not too smart to get injured off the job when you’re a pro athlete. Cleveland Browns Kellen Winslow Jr. crashed his motorcycle recently and will now miss the 2005 NFL season. Jay Williams, a number one draft pick of the Chicago Bulls, also got into a motorcycle accident and has not played since. What’s with motorcycles anyhow? Talk about killing the goose that lays the golden eggs.
10. “When You Come To a Fork in the Road, Take It” – Yogi Berra Saying really dumb things in the media seems to be a particularly easy thing to do if you’re a professional athlete. I looked in a lot of places online to come up with a good list here. My problem was that there were so many good ones, I wasn’t sure which ones to pick. But here are a few gems: a. Paul Hamm, Gymnast: “I owe a lot to my parents, especially my mother and father.” b. Baseball player Tito Fuentes, after getting hit by a pitch: “They shouldn’t throw at me. I’m the father of five or six kids.” c. Football coach Ray Malavasi: “I don’t care what the tape says. I didn’t say it.” d. Baseball player Dizzy Dean, after a 1-0 game: “The game was closer than the score indicated.” e. Boxing Analyst: “Sure there have been injuries, and even some deaths in boxing, but none of them really that serious.” f. Soccer commentator: “Julian Dicks is everywhere. It’s like they’ve got eleven Dicks on the field.” g. Bill Cowher, Pittsburgh Steelers coach: “We’re not attempting to circumcise rules.” h. Jim Wohford: “Ninety percent of the game is half mental.” i. Joe Theismann: “Nobody in football should be called a genius. A genius is a guy like Norman Einstein.” j. Charles Shackleford of the NCSU basketball team: “Left hand, right hand, it doesn’t matter. I’m amphibious.” k. Shaquille O’Neal, on his lack of championships: “I’ve won at every level, except college and pro.”
As I already asked before, what can we expect from professional athletes? They often reflect society as a whole. Too much time, money and fame at a really young age can augment stupidity, simple as that. We all say and do dumb things, but thankfully, we don’t have microphones and video cameras pointed at us all the time. As Norman Einstein used to say, “Really smart athletes stay away from problems because they can predict the future with their ESPN.”
There seems to be an endless stream of idiotic things professional athletes do. I guess if you put a bunch of young men together, give them a boat-load of money and lots of free time, what can you expect? When beautiful women, the media and the luxuries of life are thrown at them, their cockiness and stupidity are only amplified. Here are my top ten, but of course there are lots more. However, we must always remember, they are only human too.
1. Me Make Good Play! Ever see NFL players beat their chest like a gorilla after they just made a good play? I guess it’s a Tarzan thing or something, but they look kinda ridiculous. Maybe if I was out there on the field and I was a 170-pound kicker watching a defensive lineman beating his chest after a sack, I may be a little intimidated, but overall, they look really silly doing it. (I attended a professional all-women’s football game this year and saw a 350-pound woman do this, which was particularly scary.)
2. The God Factor, Part I I hate it when players point up to Heaven and thank God after a good play too. Bear in mind however, that I am not criticizing religion or anyone for having faith in God. But this just looks lame. It happens a lot in MLB for some reason. A strikeout will cause Pedro Martinez to do the chest-touch and double-index-finger-point to God as if he and God were chatting earlier about possible pitching strategies in the locker room, and the strategy they chose together worked, so he had to personally thank God using his direct line.
3. The God Factor, Part II Locker rooms, sidelines, dugouts, bullpens, and court sides are often full of praying men. One question: “If you are praying to win, and your opponent is praying to win, who does God choose?
4. Bad Boys, Bad Boys, Whatcha Gonna Do When They Come For You? Why do pro jocks get arrested for drug and/or gun possession so much? Of course, lots of people do this one unfortunately, we just happen to hear about the famous athletes who do. C’mon guys, keep the drugs at home, stop driving while high, and for crying out loud, stop packin’! You don’t need a gun. Who’s going to harm you? You’re six six and weigh 275 pounds!
5. It Wasn’t Me! Telling Congress you don’t do steroids, then getting caught doing steroids is pretty dumb. I loved watching the clips where Rafael Palmero sat pointing a finger at the Congressional hearing stating with disgust and confidence, “I do not take steroids.” And then the next clip showing him apologizing profusely for taking steroids.
6. I Love You To Death Murdering ex-lovers doesn’t happen very often fortunately, but my list wouldn’t be complete without at least mentioning O.J.
7. Rabbits It seems that there are a lot of NBA players out there who use the phrase, “My baby’s mom” a little too often. And there’s too many pro athletes’ offspring introducing their buddies as “My brother from another mother.” Ever hear of a condom?
8. How Much Bling Bling Do You Need!? It’s fascinating to watch professional athletes blow through all their millions in their first year or two and then have nothing left at retirement, which is usually only a few years later. How many fifty-year-olds are still playing pro sports? Not many (minus golfers of course, who will drag their canes and oxygen tanks with them on the fairway). So why don’t pro athletes save a couple of bucks?
9. Love My Hog It’s not too smart to get injured off the job when you’re a pro athlete. Cleveland Browns Kellen Winslow Jr. crashed his motorcycle recently and will now miss the 2005 NFL season. Jay Williams, a number one draft pick of the Chicago Bulls, also got into a motorcycle accident and has not played since. What’s with motorcycles anyhow? Talk about killing the goose that lays the golden eggs.
10. “When You Come To a Fork in the Road, Take It” – Yogi Berra Saying really dumb things in the media seems to be a particularly easy thing to do if you’re a professional athlete. I looked in a lot of places online to come up with a good list here. My problem was that there were so many good ones, I wasn’t sure which ones to pick. But here are a few gems: a. Paul Hamm, Gymnast: “I owe a lot to my parents, especially my mother and father.” b. Baseball player Tito Fuentes, after getting hit by a pitch: “They shouldn’t throw at me. I’m the father of five or six kids.” c. Football coach Ray Malavasi: “I don’t care what the tape says. I didn’t say it.” d. Baseball player Dizzy Dean, after a 1-0 game: “The game was closer than the score indicated.” e. Boxing Analyst: “Sure there have been injuries, and even some deaths in boxing, but none of them really that serious.” f. Soccer commentator: “Julian Dicks is everywhere. It’s like they’ve got eleven Dicks on the field.” g. Bill Cowher, Pittsburgh Steelers coach: “We’re not attempting to circumcise rules.” h. Jim Wohford: “Ninety percent of the game is half mental.” i. Joe Theismann: “Nobody in football should be called a genius. A genius is a guy like Norman Einstein.” j. Charles Shackleford of the NCSU basketball team: “Left hand, right hand, it doesn’t matter. I’m amphibious.” k. Shaquille O’Neal, on his lack of championships: “I’ve won at every level, except college and pro.”
As I already asked before, what can we expect from professional athletes? They often reflect society as a whole. Too much time, money and fame at a really young age can augment stupidity, simple as that. We all say and do dumb things, but thankfully, we don’t have microphones and video cameras pointed at us all the time. As Norman Einstein used to say, “Really smart athletes stay away from problems because they can predict the future with their ESPN.”
Common Errors When Attempting to Develop Maximum Speed in Team Sports
Dick Moss asked:
Although speed is a major determinant of success in team sports, there are a number of errors that team sport coaches make when attempting to develop maximum speed in their athletes.
These errors include performing the sprints at the end of practice, sprint distances that are longer than that performed in games, and a total volume of work that is excessive.
SCHEDULING SPEED SESSIONS AT THE END OF PRACTICE
It’s common for team sport players to perform their speed work at the end of practice – for example, basketball players running lines before heading to the locker room.
This might be good for developing endurance and fitness, but it does little to improve leg speed. That’s because maximal speed is best developed when the nervous system is fresh and able to incorporate faster-than-normal patterns of movement.
Unfortunately, by the end of practice, the nervous system is already fatigued and the ability to run at maximum speed is impaired. Maximum speed will not be improved by practicing at a sub-maximal pace.
EXCESSIVE SPRINT DISTANCE
Speed work is often performed over distances that don’t reflect game situations – for example, football players performing 100 yard repeats even though they seldom sprint farther than 20 to 30 yards during a game. In fact, for most players, acceleration over the first five strides is most important.
Aside from lack of specificity, longer sprint repetitions produce early neuromuscular fatigue (see above). The fact is, most world-class sprinters reach their top speed before they hit 60 yards. Maximum speed work that goes beyond that is developing speed endurance not maximum speed.
And if your football linemen never sprint more than 30 yards, it is speed over 30 yards that is most important for them.
TOO MANY REPETITIONS
Some teams perform volume (i.e. number of reps) that cause so much fatigue that speed and technique suffer and the nervous system trains incorrect firing and technique patterns. Again, fatigued athletes will not improve their maximum speed.
RECOMMENDATIONS
There is definitely a role for large volumes of longer sprint intervals at the end of practice. Just be aware that it is speed endurance, not maximum speed that you are developing pure speed with such training.
Increasing maximum speed requires a non-fatigued nervous system employing full-out sprints over distances of less than 60 yards, with plenty of recovery.
This is best performed early in the practice, or as a separate session. In terms of volume, a good rule of thumb is, when athletes’ speed or technique declines (sprint times go up), stop the high-intensity training for that day.
REFERENCE:
Joseph Warpeha. “Principles of Speed Training.” NSCA’s Performance Training Journal, June 2007.
Although speed is a major determinant of success in team sports, there are a number of errors that team sport coaches make when attempting to develop maximum speed in their athletes.
These errors include performing the sprints at the end of practice, sprint distances that are longer than that performed in games, and a total volume of work that is excessive.
SCHEDULING SPEED SESSIONS AT THE END OF PRACTICE
It’s common for team sport players to perform their speed work at the end of practice – for example, basketball players running lines before heading to the locker room.
This might be good for developing endurance and fitness, but it does little to improve leg speed. That’s because maximal speed is best developed when the nervous system is fresh and able to incorporate faster-than-normal patterns of movement.
Unfortunately, by the end of practice, the nervous system is already fatigued and the ability to run at maximum speed is impaired. Maximum speed will not be improved by practicing at a sub-maximal pace.
EXCESSIVE SPRINT DISTANCE
Speed work is often performed over distances that don’t reflect game situations – for example, football players performing 100 yard repeats even though they seldom sprint farther than 20 to 30 yards during a game. In fact, for most players, acceleration over the first five strides is most important.
Aside from lack of specificity, longer sprint repetitions produce early neuromuscular fatigue (see above). The fact is, most world-class sprinters reach their top speed before they hit 60 yards. Maximum speed work that goes beyond that is developing speed endurance not maximum speed.
And if your football linemen never sprint more than 30 yards, it is speed over 30 yards that is most important for them.
TOO MANY REPETITIONS
Some teams perform volume (i.e. number of reps) that cause so much fatigue that speed and technique suffer and the nervous system trains incorrect firing and technique patterns. Again, fatigued athletes will not improve their maximum speed.
RECOMMENDATIONS
There is definitely a role for large volumes of longer sprint intervals at the end of practice. Just be aware that it is speed endurance, not maximum speed that you are developing pure speed with such training.
Increasing maximum speed requires a non-fatigued nervous system employing full-out sprints over distances of less than 60 yards, with plenty of recovery.
This is best performed early in the practice, or as a separate session. In terms of volume, a good rule of thumb is, when athletes’ speed or technique declines (sprint times go up), stop the high-intensity training for that day.
REFERENCE:
Joseph Warpeha. “Principles of Speed Training.” NSCA’s Performance Training Journal, June 2007.
Opportuning
B.L. Lindstrom asked:
Years ago we were running laps at the end of practice. As we started our fifth lap, Coach walked out to center court dribbling the mystical orb, as he always did. He watched for the leaders to approach the end of lap five and then, without a moment’s hesitation he would hurl the ball towards the basket behind him. The arc was so perfect in spite of the historical evidence we always believed, this time, he would make it. But the shot would always rim out or careen off the backboard, and our next five laps would begin.
During those next five laps coach would tell us about things to watch out for in the next game, about our well played scrimmage or about a former player who just became a doctor or a lawyer or a teacher. As the leaders approached the end of lap ten he would joke about some of us looking too fresh and maybe needing another ten. Then, without a moment’s hesitation he would, again, hurl the ball towards the basket behind him. And we would all stop running to watch because, this time, despite the incredible odds against it, we knew, the shot was going in. Coach would always holler “Why are you guys stopping?” To which came the obligatory unified response, “Because you never miss the same shot twice!” followed by the swish of the lesson learned.
Much to my father’s dismay, I stopped playing basketball after seventh grade, finding football more appealing to me than the sport that made my dad a legend. But I never forgot the wisdom of Coach Newsome and his unbelievable string of second-chance-basket-behind-him-midcourt shots.
A few years later, I was playing in a championship football game. We had overcome two horrendous calls made by the clearly biased refs and a much more athletic team of adversaries. With less than two minutes to go, we were in the lead and they were 80 yards from a go ahead score with no timeouts. Forty years have not been able to wipe the memory of the next play from my psyche. They lined up in the formation I had seen so many times on film and the chalk board.
I drew a bead on the halfback that would surely get the ball. But at the snap, I began to move in slow motion. I was perfectly positioned to intercept the lateral bound for my man. Yet, when it came, the ball seemed to pass right through me and end up in the hands of my opponent. I turned to tackle him, but my arms passed through him as though he were a ghost. I watched as each of my teammates tried to stop this illusion from reaching the goal line. But they were all as seemingly powerless as I. With 90 seconds to go, we drove back down field and my best friend inexplicably dropped a perfectly thrown ball in the end zone as time ran out.
Our “fans” blamed him for the loss and he took it very hard. In the locker room after the game, I announced to the team that this loss was my fault not his. If I had just made that interception or that tackle, we wouldn’t have needed another touchdown. One by one each of my teammates stepped forward and announced the mistakes that they had made throughout the contest. Soon we were all feeling as miserable as the one who made the last mistake.
Coach Newsome had come in to console his good friends on the football staff. Somebody shouted, “This ain’t basketball coach. We don’t get a second shot at this.” Coach turned and said, “Well, I’m certainly proud that after three and half years of High School, Mr. Chomski knows that he hasn’t been playing basketball.” Some of us smiled. “Boys, I’m not going to stand here and tell you that losing a game like this shouldn’t hurt. And I’m certainly not going to tell you that this wasn’t a once in a life time opportunity. It was. Now, I don’t know why you weren’t allowed to win here tonight. But I will tell you this. Just like the guys that are whooping it up over there in the other locker room. You’re going to remember this game for the rest of your life. And because you’ll remember what could have been if-you-had-just. When you’re next once-in- lifetime-opportunity comes along, and believe me, you’ll all see at a lot more of them, you will adjust and put yourself in a better position to emerge victorious. The important thing to remember is missing a shot does not make you a loser.”
Years ago we were running laps at the end of practice. As we started our fifth lap, Coach walked out to center court dribbling the mystical orb, as he always did. He watched for the leaders to approach the end of lap five and then, without a moment’s hesitation he would hurl the ball towards the basket behind him. The arc was so perfect in spite of the historical evidence we always believed, this time, he would make it. But the shot would always rim out or careen off the backboard, and our next five laps would begin.
During those next five laps coach would tell us about things to watch out for in the next game, about our well played scrimmage or about a former player who just became a doctor or a lawyer or a teacher. As the leaders approached the end of lap ten he would joke about some of us looking too fresh and maybe needing another ten. Then, without a moment’s hesitation he would, again, hurl the ball towards the basket behind him. And we would all stop running to watch because, this time, despite the incredible odds against it, we knew, the shot was going in. Coach would always holler “Why are you guys stopping?” To which came the obligatory unified response, “Because you never miss the same shot twice!” followed by the swish of the lesson learned.
Much to my father’s dismay, I stopped playing basketball after seventh grade, finding football more appealing to me than the sport that made my dad a legend. But I never forgot the wisdom of Coach Newsome and his unbelievable string of second-chance-basket-behind-him-midcourt shots.
A few years later, I was playing in a championship football game. We had overcome two horrendous calls made by the clearly biased refs and a much more athletic team of adversaries. With less than two minutes to go, we were in the lead and they were 80 yards from a go ahead score with no timeouts. Forty years have not been able to wipe the memory of the next play from my psyche. They lined up in the formation I had seen so many times on film and the chalk board.
I drew a bead on the halfback that would surely get the ball. But at the snap, I began to move in slow motion. I was perfectly positioned to intercept the lateral bound for my man. Yet, when it came, the ball seemed to pass right through me and end up in the hands of my opponent. I turned to tackle him, but my arms passed through him as though he were a ghost. I watched as each of my teammates tried to stop this illusion from reaching the goal line. But they were all as seemingly powerless as I. With 90 seconds to go, we drove back down field and my best friend inexplicably dropped a perfectly thrown ball in the end zone as time ran out.
Our “fans” blamed him for the loss and he took it very hard. In the locker room after the game, I announced to the team that this loss was my fault not his. If I had just made that interception or that tackle, we wouldn’t have needed another touchdown. One by one each of my teammates stepped forward and announced the mistakes that they had made throughout the contest. Soon we were all feeling as miserable as the one who made the last mistake.
Coach Newsome had come in to console his good friends on the football staff. Somebody shouted, “This ain’t basketball coach. We don’t get a second shot at this.” Coach turned and said, “Well, I’m certainly proud that after three and half years of High School, Mr. Chomski knows that he hasn’t been playing basketball.” Some of us smiled. “Boys, I’m not going to stand here and tell you that losing a game like this shouldn’t hurt. And I’m certainly not going to tell you that this wasn’t a once in a life time opportunity. It was. Now, I don’t know why you weren’t allowed to win here tonight. But I will tell you this. Just like the guys that are whooping it up over there in the other locker room. You’re going to remember this game for the rest of your life. And because you’ll remember what could have been if-you-had-just. When you’re next once-in- lifetime-opportunity comes along, and believe me, you’ll all see at a lot more of them, you will adjust and put yourself in a better position to emerge victorious. The important thing to remember is missing a shot does not make you a loser.”
Atlanta Braves and the History of Turner Field
Cristi asked:
Commonly referred to as the ‘Home of the Braves’ in honor of it’s tenants, Turner Field hosted it’s inaugural Atlanta Braves game in April 1997. With the capability to seat more than 50,000 fans, spectators regularly pack themselves into this facility featuring a combination of vintage baseball styling and modern amenities. Speaking of amenities, Turner Field offers constant game updates via the Atlanta BravesVision video board, the PlazaVision board and more than 500 television monitors throughout. Inside the ballpark, spectators are invited to do the tomahawk chop in conjunction the 27ft. neon tomahawk, which resides atop the video board.
The playing surface at Turner Field is created with the use of prescription athletic turf, which features a drainage system and hybrid Bermuda grass. The facility features three different seating levels, which includes the Field level, Lexus level and upper level. The Lexus level offers 58 private suites and Turner Field’s exclusive membership club known as the 755 Club. The upper level features a spectacular view of downtown Atlanta and the Field level gives spectators a close view of the action on the field.
One of the most notable, and historical, events held at Turner Field include the 1996 Summer Olympics. The Atlanta Braves Museum and Hall of Fame, which is located on the grounds of Turner Field, offers additional information on the history of the facility and the ballclub. In addition, it showcases more than 500 Atlanta Braves artifacts dating back to 1871. Open yearround, the Atlanta Braves Museum and Hall of Fame is among the most popular stops for tourists and sports fans. For those who participate in the Turner Field tours, a visit to a luxury suite, the press box, broadcast booth, dugout, Scouts Alley, the clubhouse locker room and The Plaza are typically on the list of scheduled stops.
Tooner Field, which is a special children’s area of Turner Field, is presented by Cartoon Network and is a new $3.4 million project featuring cartoon-themed baseball decor. Measuring over 13,000 sq. ft., Tooner Field allows youngsters to challenge their skills in a fun way and while enjoying one of the newest additions to Turner Field.
From young and old to small and tall, Turner Field offers something for every fan. Although most come to enjoy an exciting game of baseball, touring the museum or watching the little ones enjoy an afternoon at Tooner Field is a terrific way to spend some time before the game starts. The great American game of baseball is no longer just an ordinary day at the ballpark. Today, it’s a host of activities leading up to the big event that is sure to be a fun-filled day for everyone.
Collectors who wish to request an autograph from any one of the players on the Atlanta Braves roster should send their letter and a SASE (self-addressed stamped envelope) to:
Player’s Name
c/o Atlanta Braves
755 Hank Aaron Drive
Atlanta, GA 30315
Fans requesting an autograph should limit their request to two items per letter. Popular items to have signed include photos, index or trading cards, baseballs, etc. Patience is key when requesting autographs through the mail, but the best time to reach an athlete is often during the off-season.
Commonly referred to as the ‘Home of the Braves’ in honor of it’s tenants, Turner Field hosted it’s inaugural Atlanta Braves game in April 1997. With the capability to seat more than 50,000 fans, spectators regularly pack themselves into this facility featuring a combination of vintage baseball styling and modern amenities. Speaking of amenities, Turner Field offers constant game updates via the Atlanta BravesVision video board, the PlazaVision board and more than 500 television monitors throughout. Inside the ballpark, spectators are invited to do the tomahawk chop in conjunction the 27ft. neon tomahawk, which resides atop the video board.
The playing surface at Turner Field is created with the use of prescription athletic turf, which features a drainage system and hybrid Bermuda grass. The facility features three different seating levels, which includes the Field level, Lexus level and upper level. The Lexus level offers 58 private suites and Turner Field’s exclusive membership club known as the 755 Club. The upper level features a spectacular view of downtown Atlanta and the Field level gives spectators a close view of the action on the field.
One of the most notable, and historical, events held at Turner Field include the 1996 Summer Olympics. The Atlanta Braves Museum and Hall of Fame, which is located on the grounds of Turner Field, offers additional information on the history of the facility and the ballclub. In addition, it showcases more than 500 Atlanta Braves artifacts dating back to 1871. Open yearround, the Atlanta Braves Museum and Hall of Fame is among the most popular stops for tourists and sports fans. For those who participate in the Turner Field tours, a visit to a luxury suite, the press box, broadcast booth, dugout, Scouts Alley, the clubhouse locker room and The Plaza are typically on the list of scheduled stops.
Tooner Field, which is a special children’s area of Turner Field, is presented by Cartoon Network and is a new $3.4 million project featuring cartoon-themed baseball decor. Measuring over 13,000 sq. ft., Tooner Field allows youngsters to challenge their skills in a fun way and while enjoying one of the newest additions to Turner Field.
From young and old to small and tall, Turner Field offers something for every fan. Although most come to enjoy an exciting game of baseball, touring the museum or watching the little ones enjoy an afternoon at Tooner Field is a terrific way to spend some time before the game starts. The great American game of baseball is no longer just an ordinary day at the ballpark. Today, it’s a host of activities leading up to the big event that is sure to be a fun-filled day for everyone.
Collectors who wish to request an autograph from any one of the players on the Atlanta Braves roster should send their letter and a SASE (self-addressed stamped envelope) to:
Player’s Name
c/o Atlanta Braves
755 Hank Aaron Drive
Atlanta, GA 30315
Fans requesting an autograph should limit their request to two items per letter. Popular items to have signed include photos, index or trading cards, baseballs, etc. Patience is key when requesting autographs through the mail, but the best time to reach an athlete is often during the off-season.
Gift Ideas for the Sports Fans Dads & Grads
Melody Wigdahl asked:
Father’s day is just around the corner and it seems like there’s a Graduation to attend every weekend – and if you are like most of us – your imagination is on overload trying to come up with creative gift ideas!
Unlike Mother?s Day – you can?t just run out to the nearest florist and send a nice bunch of roses, and that means that when buying gfts for Dads and Grads…..you may actually have to put some thought and effort into the decision!((
Fortunately, many of those Dads and Grads (yes, even the female variety!) are sports fans – and that opens up a whole new world of unique, logo bearing gifts!(( And we are not talking about the usual team branded T-Shirt or football jersey either – with a little creativity you can find something unique and special for every fan.((
Here’s a gift that is really unique – a personalized locker room photo, showing 4 team jerseys, one emblazoned with the RECIPIENT’s name! So far, my Dad has gotten his name on a Dodgers jersey, and my best friend and rabid Sharks (Hockey) fan, Pat, has her?s hanging in her crafts room! You can get the pic framed or unframed, the price is great, starting at just $29.95, and is sure to be something that will be treasured for years to come. Available for all pro teams, and many colleges, these are truly a great conversation piece for many years to come!
How about a quick ‘redo’ of the basement or game room for Father’s day? How about easy to install carpet tiles with Dad?s favorite team?s logo? The logoed tiles are alternated with solid color tiles so you get a team logo ?checkerboard? effect on the floor, and are easy enough to install that you can re-do the average size room while Dad spends his afternoon on the golf course! You can get the carpet tiles for all the pro teams (NFL, MBL, NHL) and most of the bigger colleges too (Great for the OSU or USC fans!)
If redoing the whole floor is more than you want to tackle right now, you can find area rugs from door mat size to a full room (just roll it out and you?re done!) with either a ?repeating? logo pattern or the more traditional single large logo.
For the grad that just got the new car – you can even get custom team logo car mats, personalized with their name! These also make terrific fundraisers for schools and great promotional items for businesses, too.((
And for the high school grad heading off to college in the fall, you can find everything from sheets and comforters to body pillows and bed slippers for just about any school you can think of (Appalachia? College of Mines? Yup!). ((
No matter what your sports fan grad or dad might want – whether it’s a rolling cooler, pool cue and balls set, a lamp or car mats – make it something they will really treasure by adding the unique touch of their favorite team logo!((
Father’s day is just around the corner and it seems like there’s a Graduation to attend every weekend – and if you are like most of us – your imagination is on overload trying to come up with creative gift ideas!
Unlike Mother?s Day – you can?t just run out to the nearest florist and send a nice bunch of roses, and that means that when buying gfts for Dads and Grads…..you may actually have to put some thought and effort into the decision!((
Fortunately, many of those Dads and Grads (yes, even the female variety!) are sports fans – and that opens up a whole new world of unique, logo bearing gifts!(( And we are not talking about the usual team branded T-Shirt or football jersey either – with a little creativity you can find something unique and special for every fan.((
Here’s a gift that is really unique – a personalized locker room photo, showing 4 team jerseys, one emblazoned with the RECIPIENT’s name! So far, my Dad has gotten his name on a Dodgers jersey, and my best friend and rabid Sharks (Hockey) fan, Pat, has her?s hanging in her crafts room! You can get the pic framed or unframed, the price is great, starting at just $29.95, and is sure to be something that will be treasured for years to come. Available for all pro teams, and many colleges, these are truly a great conversation piece for many years to come!
How about a quick ‘redo’ of the basement or game room for Father’s day? How about easy to install carpet tiles with Dad?s favorite team?s logo? The logoed tiles are alternated with solid color tiles so you get a team logo ?checkerboard? effect on the floor, and are easy enough to install that you can re-do the average size room while Dad spends his afternoon on the golf course! You can get the carpet tiles for all the pro teams (NFL, MBL, NHL) and most of the bigger colleges too (Great for the OSU or USC fans!)
If redoing the whole floor is more than you want to tackle right now, you can find area rugs from door mat size to a full room (just roll it out and you?re done!) with either a ?repeating? logo pattern or the more traditional single large logo.
For the grad that just got the new car – you can even get custom team logo car mats, personalized with their name! These also make terrific fundraisers for schools and great promotional items for businesses, too.((
And for the high school grad heading off to college in the fall, you can find everything from sheets and comforters to body pillows and bed slippers for just about any school you can think of (Appalachia? College of Mines? Yup!). ((
No matter what your sports fan grad or dad might want – whether it’s a rolling cooler, pool cue and balls set, a lamp or car mats – make it something they will really treasure by adding the unique touch of their favorite team logo!((
Top 5 Coaching Boards
KR asked:
Top 5 Coaching Boards
Pointing fingers and yelling across the field is not the easiest way to get players in line. So how can you illustrate to players where they should move on the court or field? The dry erase coaching board. I don’t know who invented them but coaching boards have saved thousands, if not millions, of coaches the frustration of trying to get athletes to share their vision.
Coaching boards started out as simple chalk boards with court diagrams drawn on them. A basic idea that has been improved over the years. Now coaches can use dry erase boards that boast color basketball courts and green fields, accurate field diagrams and even magnetic player pieces.
Whether your buying a coaching board for yourself or as a gift for your favorite coach with so many options out there it’s hard to keep track of what’s new on the scene and which models are the tried and true.
Come with me as we take a quick look at the Top 5 Coaching Boards for 2008 according to sales at Morley Athletic. We’ll start with the 5th most popular model and work our way to the #1 most popular coaching board.
#5 – Playmaker Wall Units
While not your average sized coaching boards Playmaker Wall Units offer an oversized dry erase surface. Measuring in at a whopping 24″ wide x 36″ high this model is usually reserved for the team bus or locker room but has grown to be very popular. This specially designed dry erase board easily wipes clean so drawing plays is quick and easy. Dry erase pen and eraser attaches to the board with Velcro fasteners for safe keeping. The Playmaker Wall Unit features a heavy duty aluminum frame.
Available in the following sports: Basketball, Football Field, Soccer, Volleyball, Ice Hockey, Football Single Play, Football Three Stage, Plain White.
#4 – Aluminum Portfolio Coaching Boards
Aluminum Portfolio Coaching Boards are made of a durable aluminum that provides a rigid and smooth writing surface. Use a dry erase marker (included) to draw plays. Aluminum portfolio coaching boards also feature a spring hinged cover so you can keep papers inside of them safely. Lightweight and extremely durable it’s no wonder this lightweight portable desk is #4 in our countdown. Each clipboard measures 9″ x 12-13/16″.
Available in the following sports: Basketball, Football Field, Soccer, Volleyball, Ice Hockey, Women’s Lacrosse, Men’s Lacrosse or Field Hockey
#3 – Magnetic Playmaker
Sliding in at number three is the Magnetic Playmaker. The fact that this coaching board is in the countdown is truly astounding when you consider that the majority sold are for one sport, basketball. While all of the other models in the countdown are popular with all sports this little wonder of coaching splendor is so popular with one sport it rocks the charts.
Magnetic Playmakers offer a dry erase surface that wipes clean with ease. As the name implies they also offer the advantage of magnets to illustrate player movement. Magnetic Playmakers feature a pen/eraser combo for versatility. The player magnets store under the partial lid when closed. This model boasts a impact resistant styrene plastic frame for long lasting use. The plastic case actually offers a wider gripping area and is easier on your hands. When the hinged cover is closed it doubles as a carry handle. Add to all of those features a full 10″ x 15″ size and you can’t go wrong.
Available in the following sports: Basketball, Volleyball or Soccer.
#2 – Sport Write Coaching Boards
Sick of plain old white dry erase boards. Need some color to spice of the sidelines and get your players attention. Your in luck! Relatively new on the scene are the Sport Write Coaching Boards. New, maybe, innovative, definitely. These oversized boards offer the best detail of any coaching board on the market.
Sport Write boards are actually a double whammy because not only do you get the most graphic field and court diagrams available but on the reverse side you get a huge white dry erase surface for additional plays or notes. You could even use this side to post messages in the locker room or on the field.
Sport Write coaching boards are lightweight and durable. The measure up against the competition at a full 23-1/4″ x 18-5/8″. You can get an idea of exactly how big that is by looking at the pictures and video by clicking this link… Sport Write Coaching Boards.
This board is currently sweeping the market and it’s easy to see why.
Available in the following sports: Baseball Diamond, Basketball, Football Field, Soccer, Ice Hockey, Women’s Lacrosse, Men’s Lacrosse or Field Hockey
#1 – Dry Erase Clip Boards
No real shock here is it. The standard 9.5″ x 15.5″ dry erase clip board with field diagram is still the #1 most popular coaching board. It’s easy to understand why. They offer the least expensive price, they have clear court and field diagrams and the clip at the top can hold papers. It’s hard to beat the original right?
There are many manufacturers of this style board and prices range for under $10 to over $20 based on manufacturer.
Most manufacturers include a dry erase marker and the boards can be wiped clean with a cloth or paper towel with ease.
You’ll find a quality model at www. MorleyAthletic .com that’s available in the following sports: Baseball Field, Baseball Line Up, Tennis, Basketball, Football Field, Soccer, Volleyball, Ice Hockey, Women’s Lacrosse, Men’s Lacrosse, Field Hockey or Plain.
You’ll also find the same model in a large 12.5″ x 18.5″ size in all of the above listed sports at www. MorleyAthletic .com.
Whatever your sport, whichever style you prefer you’ll find your coaching board a very valuable tool in coaching. Verbal explanation of plays can lead to players running in different directions. Everyone deciphers things differently and players listening to a coaches instruction may all hear things a little differently. Keep all your players on the same page and pick up your coaching board next time you want to illustrate a play.
To view all of the above boards and more shop the largest selection of coaching boards online at the ”Coaching Board Store”.
Top 5 Coaching Boards
Pointing fingers and yelling across the field is not the easiest way to get players in line. So how can you illustrate to players where they should move on the court or field? The dry erase coaching board. I don’t know who invented them but coaching boards have saved thousands, if not millions, of coaches the frustration of trying to get athletes to share their vision.
Coaching boards started out as simple chalk boards with court diagrams drawn on them. A basic idea that has been improved over the years. Now coaches can use dry erase boards that boast color basketball courts and green fields, accurate field diagrams and even magnetic player pieces.
Whether your buying a coaching board for yourself or as a gift for your favorite coach with so many options out there it’s hard to keep track of what’s new on the scene and which models are the tried and true.
Come with me as we take a quick look at the Top 5 Coaching Boards for 2008 according to sales at Morley Athletic. We’ll start with the 5th most popular model and work our way to the #1 most popular coaching board.
#5 – Playmaker Wall Units
While not your average sized coaching boards Playmaker Wall Units offer an oversized dry erase surface. Measuring in at a whopping 24″ wide x 36″ high this model is usually reserved for the team bus or locker room but has grown to be very popular. This specially designed dry erase board easily wipes clean so drawing plays is quick and easy. Dry erase pen and eraser attaches to the board with Velcro fasteners for safe keeping. The Playmaker Wall Unit features a heavy duty aluminum frame.
Available in the following sports: Basketball, Football Field, Soccer, Volleyball, Ice Hockey, Football Single Play, Football Three Stage, Plain White.
#4 – Aluminum Portfolio Coaching Boards
Aluminum Portfolio Coaching Boards are made of a durable aluminum that provides a rigid and smooth writing surface. Use a dry erase marker (included) to draw plays. Aluminum portfolio coaching boards also feature a spring hinged cover so you can keep papers inside of them safely. Lightweight and extremely durable it’s no wonder this lightweight portable desk is #4 in our countdown. Each clipboard measures 9″ x 12-13/16″.
Available in the following sports: Basketball, Football Field, Soccer, Volleyball, Ice Hockey, Women’s Lacrosse, Men’s Lacrosse or Field Hockey
#3 – Magnetic Playmaker
Sliding in at number three is the Magnetic Playmaker. The fact that this coaching board is in the countdown is truly astounding when you consider that the majority sold are for one sport, basketball. While all of the other models in the countdown are popular with all sports this little wonder of coaching splendor is so popular with one sport it rocks the charts.
Magnetic Playmakers offer a dry erase surface that wipes clean with ease. As the name implies they also offer the advantage of magnets to illustrate player movement. Magnetic Playmakers feature a pen/eraser combo for versatility. The player magnets store under the partial lid when closed. This model boasts a impact resistant styrene plastic frame for long lasting use. The plastic case actually offers a wider gripping area and is easier on your hands. When the hinged cover is closed it doubles as a carry handle. Add to all of those features a full 10″ x 15″ size and you can’t go wrong.
Available in the following sports: Basketball, Volleyball or Soccer.
#2 – Sport Write Coaching Boards
Sick of plain old white dry erase boards. Need some color to spice of the sidelines and get your players attention. Your in luck! Relatively new on the scene are the Sport Write Coaching Boards. New, maybe, innovative, definitely. These oversized boards offer the best detail of any coaching board on the market.
Sport Write boards are actually a double whammy because not only do you get the most graphic field and court diagrams available but on the reverse side you get a huge white dry erase surface for additional plays or notes. You could even use this side to post messages in the locker room or on the field.
Sport Write coaching boards are lightweight and durable. The measure up against the competition at a full 23-1/4″ x 18-5/8″. You can get an idea of exactly how big that is by looking at the pictures and video by clicking this link… Sport Write Coaching Boards.
This board is currently sweeping the market and it’s easy to see why.
Available in the following sports: Baseball Diamond, Basketball, Football Field, Soccer, Ice Hockey, Women’s Lacrosse, Men’s Lacrosse or Field Hockey
#1 – Dry Erase Clip Boards
No real shock here is it. The standard 9.5″ x 15.5″ dry erase clip board with field diagram is still the #1 most popular coaching board. It’s easy to understand why. They offer the least expensive price, they have clear court and field diagrams and the clip at the top can hold papers. It’s hard to beat the original right?
There are many manufacturers of this style board and prices range for under $10 to over $20 based on manufacturer.
Most manufacturers include a dry erase marker and the boards can be wiped clean with a cloth or paper towel with ease.
You’ll find a quality model at www. MorleyAthletic .com that’s available in the following sports: Baseball Field, Baseball Line Up, Tennis, Basketball, Football Field, Soccer, Volleyball, Ice Hockey, Women’s Lacrosse, Men’s Lacrosse, Field Hockey or Plain.
You’ll also find the same model in a large 12.5″ x 18.5″ size in all of the above listed sports at www. MorleyAthletic .com.
Whatever your sport, whichever style you prefer you’ll find your coaching board a very valuable tool in coaching. Verbal explanation of plays can lead to players running in different directions. Everyone deciphers things differently and players listening to a coaches instruction may all hear things a little differently. Keep all your players on the same page and pick up your coaching board next time you want to illustrate a play.
To view all of the above boards and more shop the largest selection of coaching boards online at the ”Coaching Board Store”.
Why is everyone wearing jockstraps instead of compression shorts?
John M asked:
I went to the sports store the other day looking for compression shorts and couldn’t find any. I asked a sales guy and he said they only carried sliding shorts and thats for baseball and more guys buy jocks instead of compression shorts anymore. He said that compression shorts are kind of over with. I went to the gym that weekend and all the guys from 15-40 were wearing jocks when i walked into the locker room. Does anyone over 14 wear compression shorts anymore, or are they gone? And if they still sell them where in the heck do i get them?
I went to the sports store the other day looking for compression shorts and couldn’t find any. I asked a sales guy and he said they only carried sliding shorts and thats for baseball and more guys buy jocks instead of compression shorts anymore. He said that compression shorts are kind of over with. I went to the gym that weekend and all the guys from 15-40 were wearing jocks when i walked into the locker room. Does anyone over 14 wear compression shorts anymore, or are they gone? And if they still sell them where in the heck do i get them?
Rarely Seen Sports Apparel
Jim Brown asked:
In every sporting event players are equipped with all types of sports apparel. Some of these are very vivid and colorful and can be easily picked out on a playing field. There are other parts to sports apparel that are rarely seen except perhaps in the locker room or dressing rooms rather than at a sports arena. Some sportsmen might don these types at home and remove it after the game.
Runners are sportsmen that might choose sports apparel such as sports bras to give them additional support to the chest muscles. The designers of this types have taken into account the need for an increase in support to the shoulders and back and have provided wide straps that curve to fit between the shoulder blades without shifting an inch.
Some sports teams have selected sports apparel such as sport shorts as part of the official uniform. These are stylish sports gear that will give an athlete more support to the lower back muscles and help them avoid damages to such muscles as the hamstring and the groin. These choices are both stylish and comfortable because they are typically engineered with material that stretches in four different directions at once.
Male athletes have used many types of supportive sports apparel since they were very young. The support structure varies on many of the cup supporters that many sports require as part of the regular uniform. The typical form that men prefer most is a cup supporter that incorporates a plastic cup that is held securely in place by a fabric pouch.
Some of these sports apparel designs can be worn without a plastic cup and this styling would be a choice that is left up to the athlete. While still a part of the team uniform, any athlete will have to determine the level of protection that they want to give to their reproductive organs. These are usually made of cotton polyester knit which makes them very comfortable and cool to wear.
Many athletes that play contact sports appreciate the sports apparel that serves as protection to the pelvic region. There are many underwear briefs that are designed for male and female athletes that are made to repel a significant amount of force that can occur during the course of a game. These briefs are also designed to absorb perspiration and help athletes from chafing the skin from physical contact.
In every sporting event players are equipped with all types of sports apparel. Some of these are very vivid and colorful and can be easily picked out on a playing field. There are other parts to sports apparel that are rarely seen except perhaps in the locker room or dressing rooms rather than at a sports arena. Some sportsmen might don these types at home and remove it after the game.
Runners are sportsmen that might choose sports apparel such as sports bras to give them additional support to the chest muscles. The designers of this types have taken into account the need for an increase in support to the shoulders and back and have provided wide straps that curve to fit between the shoulder blades without shifting an inch.
Some sports teams have selected sports apparel such as sport shorts as part of the official uniform. These are stylish sports gear that will give an athlete more support to the lower back muscles and help them avoid damages to such muscles as the hamstring and the groin. These choices are both stylish and comfortable because they are typically engineered with material that stretches in four different directions at once.
Male athletes have used many types of supportive sports apparel since they were very young. The support structure varies on many of the cup supporters that many sports require as part of the regular uniform. The typical form that men prefer most is a cup supporter that incorporates a plastic cup that is held securely in place by a fabric pouch.
Some of these sports apparel designs can be worn without a plastic cup and this styling would be a choice that is left up to the athlete. While still a part of the team uniform, any athlete will have to determine the level of protection that they want to give to their reproductive organs. These are usually made of cotton polyester knit which makes them very comfortable and cool to wear.
Many athletes that play contact sports appreciate the sports apparel that serves as protection to the pelvic region. There are many underwear briefs that are designed for male and female athletes that are made to repel a significant amount of force that can occur during the course of a game. These briefs are also designed to absorb perspiration and help athletes from chafing the skin from physical contact.
Why are female reporters allowed in male athletes locker rooms but not vicee versa?
Mike asked:
Many women rights and sports group claim they promote equality but why are female reporters allowed in male athletes locker rooms and not the other way around. Shouldnt there be equal access for another party if one party is allowed. Also why is it that no one sees this as invasion of privacy for male athletes when some of them complain about having to take off their clothes in front of female reporters when they are dressing after games.
Many women rights and sports group claim they promote equality but why are female reporters allowed in male athletes locker rooms and not the other way around. Shouldnt there be equal access for another party if one party is allowed. Also why is it that no one sees this as invasion of privacy for male athletes when some of them complain about having to take off their clothes in front of female reporters when they are dressing after games.
Canadian Hockey League Formations
Jim Brown asked:
Following the action on the ice when the Canadians are battling it out will depend on which league peaks the interest of hockey fans around the world. The action that people view on television could be from the Western Hockey League hockey players or those that play in the Ontario Hockey League. The mix of hockey players on the ice could change up some weeks when members of the Quebec Major Junior take charge. It does not matter which league is playing during the week because all hockey fans know that the action they view will be thrilling either way.
The Canadian Hockey League serves as host to hockey teams that play the game of hockey just as passionately as their counterparts do in the United States. On any given week, however, it is quite possible for teams to be fined because their coach overstepped the boundaries of decorum and expressed feelings that were later deemed to be very inappropriate by officials or those higher up. Canadian hockey teams are resilient enough to find the courage to step back out on the ice the next week and win their team another victory that is far less controversial.
Before the Commissioner of a certain league imposes such penalties, all parties are consulted to ensure that all transgressions are made a matter of record and there are no grey areas on what was said, or what occurred by all parties involved. Once the air has cleared around the two teams, and the appropriate penalties have been assigned, the Canadian hockey players can in clear conscience return to the ice for another battle.
While they continue play, they will probably continue to hope that their coaches will remain silent on the sidelines and continue to be just as devoted to guiding them like they are supposed to instead of letting their passions get the best of them during a game. Some hockey players might carry out their aggressions while on the ice over something that happened weeks ago. It is hard to tell how hockey players will play week to week because fans are not privy to some of the behind the scene actions that occur in the locker room between two teams.
The road to Kitchener begins with the Canadian Hockey League on 2 October each year, and the Canadian hockey team head in certain directions to complete the games that are on their schedules. Some hockey teams might head to Saint John and others might return to Quebec City. The pace that hockey players keep in making the games on the individual schedules is almost as brisk as the speed at which they skate on the ice during each hockey game they play in.
Every week, the Canadian Hockey League will select a Player of the Week and the ADT Canadian Hockey League Goaltender of the Week. The player that is selected for either of these awards can come from Western Hockey League, Ontario Hockey League, or the Quebec Major Junior league. Fans will be thoroughly entertained with the background information that is provided about the winner and will be surely inspired after reading the play-by-play reports of the hockey ice action that earned them such an honor.
Following the action on the ice when the Canadians are battling it out will depend on which league peaks the interest of hockey fans around the world. The action that people view on television could be from the Western Hockey League hockey players or those that play in the Ontario Hockey League. The mix of hockey players on the ice could change up some weeks when members of the Quebec Major Junior take charge. It does not matter which league is playing during the week because all hockey fans know that the action they view will be thrilling either way.
The Canadian Hockey League serves as host to hockey teams that play the game of hockey just as passionately as their counterparts do in the United States. On any given week, however, it is quite possible for teams to be fined because their coach overstepped the boundaries of decorum and expressed feelings that were later deemed to be very inappropriate by officials or those higher up. Canadian hockey teams are resilient enough to find the courage to step back out on the ice the next week and win their team another victory that is far less controversial.
Before the Commissioner of a certain league imposes such penalties, all parties are consulted to ensure that all transgressions are made a matter of record and there are no grey areas on what was said, or what occurred by all parties involved. Once the air has cleared around the two teams, and the appropriate penalties have been assigned, the Canadian hockey players can in clear conscience return to the ice for another battle.
While they continue play, they will probably continue to hope that their coaches will remain silent on the sidelines and continue to be just as devoted to guiding them like they are supposed to instead of letting their passions get the best of them during a game. Some hockey players might carry out their aggressions while on the ice over something that happened weeks ago. It is hard to tell how hockey players will play week to week because fans are not privy to some of the behind the scene actions that occur in the locker room between two teams.
The road to Kitchener begins with the Canadian Hockey League on 2 October each year, and the Canadian hockey team head in certain directions to complete the games that are on their schedules. Some hockey teams might head to Saint John and others might return to Quebec City. The pace that hockey players keep in making the games on the individual schedules is almost as brisk as the speed at which they skate on the ice during each hockey game they play in.
Every week, the Canadian Hockey League will select a Player of the Week and the ADT Canadian Hockey League Goaltender of the Week. The player that is selected for either of these awards can come from Western Hockey League, Ontario Hockey League, or the Quebec Major Junior league. Fans will be thoroughly entertained with the background information that is provided about the winner and will be surely inspired after reading the play-by-play reports of the hockey ice action that earned them such an honor.