Five Things We Learned About the NFL: Week 1

After a day of recovering from an incredibly emotional weekend, and a full day of digesting the opening weekend of the 2011 National Football League regular season, it’s amazing what took place on the field across the country. We saw some incredible plays, witnessed some brilliant performances, and learned some valuable things:

5. The Lockout Cost Some Teams. Or Did It?

Before the season began, a lot was made about what teams did or didn’t do while the labor dispute was going on. On opening Thursday night, there was no better comparison than the New Orleans Saints (which held full team workouts during the offseason dispute the lockout) and the Green Bay Packers who met just once to receive their Super Bowl rings. 

What ended up happening was a display that says team chemistry can be carried over from the previous season. The Saints were mixing in a lot of new faces, with some old, while the Pack played for longer last year and picked up right where they left off. Now, this isn’t to say that the lockout didn’t hurt teams. Because Peyton Manning couldn’t work with his team and get the help needed from Colts doctors, his consecutive games played streak ended, his season may be over and his career may be in jeopardy. 

This labor dispute affected numerous people in multiple ways, but the majority was off the field. What this lockout taught me is that the level of talent on the field can be molded quickly when there is a winning environment and the right tools are easily accessible. For those that don’t have that, the process takes a lot longer. It also showed me that these athletes may not stay in the best of shape in the offseason. So many injuries across the board this weekend can’t all be chalked up to freak incidents right? The best players stay in the best shape all of the time.

4. Cam Newton May Be the Real Deal

So, the Country Baker (my better half), has constantly joked that one of my posts should be about her. Well this is what she’s getting for now. Yes, her beloved Carolina Panthers have been a shell of their 2003 selves and their list of quarterback hopefuls range from Steve Beuerlein and Florida State great Chris Weinke to Jake Delhomme and Jimmy Heisman, but Sunday was an incredible day for that franchise. Cam Newton, Heisman winner & National Champion, threw for a rookie debut record 422 yards in a losing effort. 

Yes the defense failed the Panthers down the stretch, and maybe the rest of the year losing Jon Beason for the year, but Newton flashed his talent in a BIG way. He threw dump passes, checked off linebackers, broke down a (simple) defense, and made plays. Everyone called Cam the next Tim Tebow as in a player with loads of ability but even more hype. Cam is not Tim Tebow. I’m not anointing him the savior in Charlotte, but the future for that team is as bright as their franchise player’s smile.

3. The Patriots Are On A Mission

Last night I watched something that not only upset me, but downright freaked me out. The inability of a team to play defense was appalling, and its not like the Dolphins were the only squad convicted of that felony. But more importantly, watching a coach, a quarterback, and a team dismantle a squad like that was scary. I mean damn near horrifying! Tom Brady threw for 517 yards on 38 completions and four touchdowns. “FIVE HUNDRED AND SEVENTEEN YARDS?!?! “– as Tim Kirkjian would say. 

We’ve known that Brady is good, top-3 in the game even, but what he and his coach did to Miami was the blueprint of how championships are won. Ever since their loss to the Giants in the Super Bowl, New England almost became forgotten. A team that couldn’t make it back to the Promised Land. Relentless Bill Bellichick, Hall of Fame Great Tom Brady, and the right pieces wearing that uniform, this team will be back this year and they will be back with a vengeance. I’m not gonna say they are a mortal lock to play in The Oil Drum in February, but if they can convince on October 9 (vs. NYJ) and again on November 13 (@ NYJ) Brady will match another famous QB in Montana; and everyone will once again swoon over the one-time Michigan back-up. Which reminds me…

2. The Tom Brady Love Affair Grows

Look, I get it. The guy’s amazing looking. He’s got reassuring eyes, broad shoulders, huge hands, and powerful legs. But c’mon folks, just because Peyton Manning’s not around to dissect defenses and send opposing coaches in to mental institutes, doesn’t mean we have to place “Tommy Terrific” up on a golden pedestal. 

When all is said and done, Brady will probably be statistically and unequivocally one of the top five signal callers to ever play the game. Right up there with Unitas, Montana, Favre and yes, Peyton. That being said, the guy has everything, a gorgeous wife, good looks, great talent, and a gorgeous baby’s mama. Do we have to ogle over him on the football field and on national television? I’m lookin’ at you Jon Gruden! 

Yes, he’s awesome at his sport but what is really important to note with him is that he’s a team player. He understands that it takes 10 other guys on offense, 11 guys on defense, 11 guys on special teams and a whole coaching staff preparing every week to put together a championship team. He always finds a way to give credit at others and deflect it away from himself. I love that he does that, it’s something amazing to listen to even when I’m gazing at those wonderfully reassuring eyes. Oh God, it’s happening to me! Let’s move on…

1.       Sports Can Heal All

Ten years ago this past Sunday I was sitting in Old Mill Middle School North, going through the normal routine of a new school year. I remember walking past the teacher’s lounge and seeing this smoke coming from a building on TV. I thought it was just a movie or something. As the day went on and kids kept going home early, with no explanation, you began to wonder. Was something wrong? This many kids didn’t have doctor’s appointments. Why wasn’t I being taken out? 

When I got home I could see on my mother’s face that something was wrong. 50 miles south of our house, the building that my Dad had recent trips to on a daily basis was hit by a plane in a terrorist attack. We didn’t hear from him until he walked in the door that night. I’ve known kids who lost family and friends on that day, I was fortunate. The effects however, have had tolls on me. I’ve lost friends in these conflicts, seen family members leave for unknown amounts of time, and witnessed the destruction of war on the frontlines here at home. 

This past weekend, I felt it proper to return to the DC area to pay my respects to all those who lost their lives that day and in the subsequent wars. While there, I went to FedEx Field and watch the Giants-Redskins game. Now, these aren’t the two bitterest of rivals in the NFC East, but they aren’t best friends either. Prior to the game, there was no trash talk. No vulgar outbursts or physical confrontations, because everyone understood that until kickoff, that day was about one thing. 

Before the national anthem was sang, Taps was played. A somber song that signifies the honor of life and those that have given it. I felt myself welling up. As I looked around, I saw others doing the same. When life attempted to return to a sense of normalcy after the attacks of 9/11, it was sports that allowed us to get there. Allowed us to forget the hardships and terror we had all seen. 

Ten years later, we remembered, we cried, and we united once again. Then, after the coin flip and first snap, we returned to normal. With sports rightly at the front.

The Ironman's Legacy: Untarnished, Undisputed, and Unbreakable

Meant to post this yesterday, on the actual anniversary, but better late than never, right?


Sixteen years ago, I sat in my living room glued to my television. I was only six years old, and had never been to a baseball game before. Long before I saw the mystique of the Green Monster, knew of the talent of Mo Vaughn and Pedro Martinez, or even prior to the hatred of those in pinstripes, I witnessed the greatest baseball record fall, and, in turn, fell in love with the sport.

There I was, sitting on my living room floor, with my father and brothers (four and two at the time) watching this guy walk around this field I had never seen before, being applauded by thousands upon thousands of screaming people, and a silent sportscaster. For twenty minutes, Baltimore reached out gave it’s prodigal son the ovation he never wanted, but fully deserved. Cal Ripken Jr. had just become the “Ironman”. I didn’t fully understand what it meant then, but I knew it was special.

In the decade and a half since September 7th, 1995 we have seen the revelation of the steroid era, the emergence of the “Core Four”, and the destruction of the Curse of the Bambino. All of that, as amazing a spectacle as they were, fail in comparison to what that late summer’s eve meant to a city, and to a sport.

Cal was an icon, played every game of his career in one uniform, never wanted to leave, and still doesn’t. He never was a lightning rod for the media, and very rarely complained. When I eventually moved to Baltimore in the fall of 1998, my biggest goal was to see him play in person. And I did, more than 20 times. As the streak continued, it was iconic to watch him play and be amazed that someone could go out and do that every day, without skipping a beat.

When Barry Bonds was on the cusp of surpassing Hammerin’ Hank on the All-Time Homeruns list*, I remember sitting in my freshman orientation at Hofstra University boasting about how I wanted to be a sports expert to all the other newcomers. One night a few guys were sitting around the TV watching ESPN when someone mentioned that Bonds was about to break the greatest record in sports. I couldn’t control my laughter.

Let’s get real, the “greatest record in sports” is quite a title to give something that will be in dispute for the remainder of time, number one. Number two, how many games did the members of the 700 club miss in their careers? The 600 club? I’m willing to bet their total number of “off days” would equal that the streak Ripken put together.

Ripken’s streak is remarkable, unfathomable, and almost God-like. He showed up to work, every day, and excelled, for 2, 632 straight days. How many people, not in baseball, do that? That’s 16 MLB seasons, 7 plus years (with weekends), and just over 10 years with Saturday & Sunday off. No sick days, no injuries, no “mental health” days. Just wake up, go to work, and go home after.

Now, this streak is not without dispute, of course everyone will talk about the night the lights went out in Camden. But whether that is true or not, the fact of the matter is the man represented the right way to do things. You didn’t complain, and you didn’t whine. You showed up and you did what was asked of you. In this day and age of multi-million dollar contracts, obligated off-days, and super agents, not a single athlete, in any sport, (not named Peyton Manning) would even attempt that.

What I found more incredible about his streak, was that it helped to keep a city alive when the Yankees and Red Sox were finding ways to knock Baltimore back down. Everybody talks about having athletes as role models. Big strong guys like Bonds, McGwire, Sosa, Griffey, and A-Rod. When I was kid, I wanted to be like Cal. I wanted to wake up and play baseball everyday. I didn’t care if I was sick, hurt, or tired. I just wanted to go play. And that’s what he did.

When the streak ended, at 2, 632 on his own accord, Ripken placed his name among Cy Young, Joe DiMaggio, and maybe Pete Rose, as owning a record that will never be broken. He was amazing, his career was awe-inspiring, and I just wish today’s athletes would look back at the Ironman and try to be like him, instead of guys like Jose Canseco.

More importantly, his streak represented the greatest achievement in sports to man who revolutionized it. He turned the shortstop into a power hitting position. It wasn’t about being fast and having a solid glove. Now, tall guys, with big powerful swings could man the middle infield. Ripken hit homeruns in both the game that tied the streak and the one that broke it; something I think brings his career full circle. He won the World Series in his third year, and then went on to break the greatest record in sports. And he didn’t need a needle to help him get there, just a nice cup of coffee and a lunch pail.

Top Five Things to Watch in the 2011 College Football Season

With so much attention drawn to the campus gridiron since Auburn defeated Oregon for the National Championship, the pigskin is finally ready to fly. Thursday night saw a total of 15 FBS games played across the country as the majority of the nation returned to the desired American pastime of screaming at college kids while drunkenly ogling at the girls in the stands and on the sidelines (America, the beautiful). So without further ado, here are the five things I will be looking at between the beers and the girls:

5. Conference Changes

The Big 12 is now the Big 10 while the Big Ten has become the Big Twelve with Nebraska and Colorado both jumping ship. This creates a very interesting, and complex, divisional discourse within the Big Ten conference as the Huskers now join the likes of Ohio State, Minnesota and Michigan in a very smash mouth, run-the-football-down-your-throat style of football. I love this change because it also pits Bo Pellini (who led Nebraska to prominence in the 90’s) against the ever immortal Joe Paterno. Also, the Husker-Badger rivalry will be fun. Coaching changes across the scene also make for an interesting season. However, these two aren’t the only adjustments that have to be made in the conference media guides as the newly christened Pac-12 begins play with the additions of Colorado and Utah. Now, I don’t realistically see either of these teams competing for a bid to the Rose Bowl immediately, but Utah was once a BCS buster and has set the trend for teams like Boise State and TCU, who will move to the Big East shortly. Make no mistake, Andrew Luck and Stanford will compete with Oregon State and maybe UCLA and USC but this change could be very fun to watch in years to come.

4. Is This the Last Shot for Boise State?

The Broncos have been the darlings of FCS football ever since shocking Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl in 2007, and watching Ian Johnson propose to his cheerleader girlfriend on national TV. However, that class was led by a group of veterans who were able to put it all together in their senior season and shock the world. This time around, another group of veterans who have become accustomed to the lifestyle their predecessors built for them will try and make another BCS Bowl Game and continue to lead the fight for a playoff system as the best non-AQ school in the country. Kellen Moore is back, along with the majority of his offensive weapons and one of the best defenses in the country. Boise is also ranked #5 in the preseason polls and will realistically have to drop two games to be “out” of the running for the national title. That feat, by the way, would double the amount of losses for the Class of 2012 who is 38-2 in their career. My answer, this is NOT the last shot Boise State will have at truly busting the BCS and playing for a national title. Coach Chris Peterson has developed a great program and he will have more guys wanting to go play “underdog” for years to come. However, this is their last BEST shot for the next few years. After this, you lose 14 players including soon to be two-time Heisman finalist Kellen Moore, and two top tier talents in lineman Nate Potter and running back Doug Martin. This will be a great season for the Broncos, and of course, all playoff dreamers will be rooting for them.

3. Effects of Off-Field Scandals on Play

First it was Terrelle Pryor at Ohio State, then (and still) it’s Miami (again) and now, even Boise State will lose three players due to eligibility review. This is becoming a scary trend in college football. It seems as though recruiting isn’t pure anymore. I mean, between boosters paying for sex for players, players signing memorabilia in exchange for free tattoos and the likes, and coaches violating recruiting standards, who can tell which players made their decisions without bribes? But, ya know what, they play football really good and that makes the boosters happy and brings in more money so I guess we’ll put Nick Shapiro on a pedestal at the U and let Jim Tressel become the AD for the Buckeyes in three years. Look, players will play the game at a high level if they have the ability to do it. The way this takes away from on the field accomplishments is if it disrupts the everyday flow of preparation. What I mean is if it forces a coach, or player, to leave mid-season. Cam Newton’s scandal didn’t bother Auburn because they didn’t lose Newton. I would be worried if I was a fan of the ‘Canes or a resident of the Horseshoe because you have lost things, or could potentially lose them. But it doesn’t matter because neither of those schools will really challenge for a title this year anyway.

2. Can the Big 12 Be Saved?

As mentioned earlier, both Nebraska and Colorado have jumped ship, leaving a once proud conference pondering what their future will be. Now, before you go screaming that I’m over-sensationalizing this, I’m not suggesting that the Big 12 will fold ever, it’s “too big to fail”. What I am saying is that they need to find a way to turn this conference around. Former Big 8 power Nebraska use to be the savior when Oklahoma and Texas continuously dominated. And for the last three years, it looked as though the Blackshirts were back to take on the two big boys. But with them leaving, Texas A&M wanting out, and the Longhorns starting their own TV Network, what’s next for Commissioner Dan Beebe? Well, you need to figure out a new marketing plan. Find a way to get the majority of your remaining team’s national exposure. Who wouldn’t want to see Baylor play Iowa State? Also, understand that the Big 12 has “niche” schools in “niche” sports. In football, it’s Boomer Sooner and Hook ‘em Horns. For basketball, you have Rock Chalk and the occasional EMAW. In baseball (which is NOT a revenue sport nationwide) it’s back to the horns. There has to be better recruiting for all schools in those other sports so you can have a shot at becoming a Florida, USC or Maryland that can compete in a multitude of sports. Finally, get SMU in to the conference. A storied school that had a rich history of very good football players deserves to be in a BCS conference. If the Pac-12 can have every California team, why can’t you have every Texas team? Besides, if you can’t get the Mustangs to play, what’s your other option? BYU?

1. Is Notre Dame Truly Back?

Ok, so maybe it’s number one ranking is a bit biased due to my (and the entire medias) love affair with the Irish, but think about it. Every season one of the biggest questions is can the Irish get back to glory? Ever since Ty Willingham was run out of his exorbitant deal, many Notre Dame boosters have lost faith in Touchdown Jesus.  A failed experiment with one of the great offensive minds in the NFL and the terrible disappointment of both Brady Quinn and Jimmy “Heisman” Clausen brought even the most doubting Catholics to church on Friday’s in prayer for the Blue and Gold. This year, you have Brian Kelly, a good ol’ Irish Catholic boy back after going 8-5 and getting a victory over both rival USC and a Sun Bowl victory. With a schedule that boasts key matchups at home (Michigan State, USC, Navy, BC) and a veteran team led by quarterback Dayne Crist, it’s not inconceivable to think the top-20 Irish can make a bid for the a BCS bowl. Besides, with a last name like Crist (I know it’s not pronounced Christ, but the headlines are awesome), how can you not think they have a legitimate shot? Just like Barry Pepper is credited with saying in Saving Private Ryan, “If God’s on our side, who could be on theirs?”

The Rest Is The Easy Part

"The hardest part of leaving is picking up the keys and finding the nerve to start that car." - The Easy Part by Chuck Wicks


So I know I promised that I would post this yesterday but, as is my life, there's a delay. People have given me crap (even in my own family) as to being a Cowboy. No I never lived on a ranch or owned a horse. Yes, I graduated from a high school south of Baltimore, Maryland. But the Cowboy identity is a mindset. A mindset of never being satisfied and always moving on. Never being tied down but always finding a reason to return. Being honorable and charitable, working with what the Good Lord gave me and never complaining when things don't go my way. Anyway, I've finally figured out why there's been a delay in this. It's because I've been subconsciously putting this off. You see, as a military brat you learn how to say goodbye and leave things behind. Over my first 18 years of my life I became immune to the idea of severing ties. However, in the last 4 years I have found something that I'm actually afraid to leave. Since the fall of freshman year in 2007 I have been a part of 88.7 FM, Radio Hofstra University. This past Sunday I hosted my final Locker Room, the symbolic end to my career here. Unfortunately, I didn't have enough time to thank all the people that I wanted to or to the extent that they deserved so here it is:

To the administrators of WRHU: Bruce Avery, John Mullen, & Ed Ingles. The three of you have been the cornerstone of my ability. Ed, when I came here as a senior in high school I looked at you and said "I want to be a sportscaster," and you replied to me with "If you bust your ass, you'll be on air your freshman year." That was all I needed to hear, I was sold. Since then you have continued to mentor me and helped groom to where I am today. John, you are always there to get some legitimate advice in this industry and if I ever need anything you'll be one of the first ones I call. Bruce, I can't thank you for everything you've done for me. After the unspeakable acts of October 2009, I asked you if that would alter my potential to move into a managers role at this station. You told me it wouldn't and two months later you gave me a vote of confidence to be the first "sports department" member to become Station Manager. Since then, I've learned how to be a manager, and a leader, and for that I thank you tremendously.

To the WRHU Sports Department: Everything I said at my final meeting is true. Everyone of you has the potential to be the best person at this station and make our department the best in the country. I implore all of you to continue competing with each other to continue growing and don't ever get complacent. To the seniors of this department; Mitch Merman, Gabe Diamond, Kyle Geesaman, Alex Santiago, Jeff Mills, Ray Rotella, and Pat O'Brien, there isn't a group I'd rather leave with. We've made such an indelible mark on this department that it will forever be remembered. More specifically to Mitch, you know how much I owe to you and ever award I've ever garnered, any job I ever get and any compliment I ever receive is one to you as well. Without you forcing me to join this station and do what it takes to be better than you, none of this would happen. Just know that I would much rather both of us get the accolades than just me. Also, to Ryan. Dude, you've been one of my best friends in such a short amount of time. I know you're going through some tough times but if I can ever be of help to you, personally, or professionally, I will always be there. I can't imagine ending my broadcasting career in any other way than with you on the broadcast with me.

To the Alums of WRHU Sports: You all, from Todd Ant and Marc Ernay to Mike Leslie and Jon Lauder, have paved a road for all of us not only here but in the real world. Thank you so much for doing everything you have that allows us to be what we want to for the rest of our lives. Specifically to Matt Shortis, thank you for taking the interest in me as a senior in high school and seeing it that I get here to do this. To Jon, you've been like a brother to me and our friendship is something that I will value more than any job or award I ever receive. To Mike Leslie, what you said to me on Sunday night was the first sign of tears. I am truly honored that someone is making their path in the professional world would think that I am going to surpass you and all the others. Thank you for setting a bar for me to reach and I hope I do that. To Siddique Farooqi, you are my mentor, my big brother, and my icon. When I was a senior in high school you took an interest in me and when I arrived at WRHU you convinced me to stick to you like glue. Without your guidance I would not be the well-rounded broadcaster I like to think I am. Thank you for everything, I'm going to miss you the most.

To my other RHU'ers: You all work at the greatest college radio station in America, bar none. I've enjoyed every second of every hour I've put into this place. You all have a special place in my heart and I will never forget you. Mainly to Veronica Kennedy and Lindsay Clark. The two have you have been rocks in my time here. Lindsay, we haven't always had the best light shed on our relationship but I've loved being able to call you a friend and am honored to keep doing that. Veronica, we've known each other for all four years here at Hofstra and I'm so happy you finally joined this station. I'm confident that you are going to have a great life, both personally and professionally.

To the other RHU alums: Joe Kuczynski, thanks for being one of the more fun people I met here. You were the first guy I tracked with and I'm proud I was able to take the reigns of country music on Long Island and run with it. To Sam Manning and Jen Joas, some of my favorite times here were anchoring Newsline with you. You two loved goofing off just as much as I did and we always were able to have a great time on the air and off. To Kathleen Shortis, my wonderful teacher and SM, thanks for being wonderful. I hope I performed the job to same level you did.

To my two Training Classes: I hope that you all learned one thing from me in your class more than anything else: passionate fun. Please, be passionate in what you do and have fun while doing it. Without that you won't be able to stand yourself or the jobs you end up with. You all have an incredible amount of talent and potential, and know I'll be watching when you finally reach it.

To my other College Friends: My roommate of three years Matt Landis. You were the force that kept me grounded for three years and I don't know where I would be if you weren't there for me. I love you so much and I missed you more than you will ever know this past year. You were one of my best friends and I can't wait to see you again. To Kelly Glista, Sarah Ciopyk, Jill Andrews, Caroline Kirkwood and Erin Carr, you five were always a way to brighten up the room and escape from the troubles of WRHU. Kelly, Erin and Sarah, I love you all and I'm so happy our friendship has continued as strongly as it has past your graduation. To the girls of Lib/Rep, mainly Katie Metz, Jaime Hoerbelt, Alana Glaubiger and Jennie Brill. Katie, you are the only person at Hofstra who truly knows me and I can't thank you enough for being there when I needed you and being one of my dearest friends ever. Jaime, you and I were just as close as Katie and I and I thank you for putting up with everything and staying with me. Alana, you are (and always will be) my sister. You could always put a smile on my face and make me realize what was needed even when I didn't want to. Jennie, I know we haven't had the strongest of relationships, but I hope you know that I cherished every moment we had together. I'm sorry that I couldn't be the better person I know you saw in me, but you stuck with me as long as you could and I don't blame you for what happened between us.

To my High School Friends: Old Mill High School was a place I couldn't stand and couldn't wait to leave. That being said, Forrest Corry and Patrick Benjamin, you two will always be my two best friends and I'm so happy I have a place to return to if I ever want to. Lorinda Lukenbach and Nora Ellenes, you two are the happiest people I have ever met and I'm so happy I will always have you there by my side if I need you. To Don and Ashley White, thank you for letting me be a part of your son's life. The thought of being some form of importance to a child is incredibly rewarding. I hope I can be to Joey what you two are. To AshLee Rempfer and Jen Berry, you two were my rocks my senior year and the summer that followed. AshLee, you're still one of my best friends and JJ, just know that I will always love you.

To my Housemates: Guys, this past year was LEGEND.....wait for it...wait for it!.....DARY! Seriously, I couldn't imagine living with a better group of guys. Whether it was just hanging out watching football on Sundays, drinking on any given night, watching "Whose Line?" or the many parties we had, I can't imagine a better ending to my college career. George, we've known each other since freshman year and having you in the house makes life so much better. Gabe, something about you just makes things funnier and helps to put everything in perspective. Butters, when you actually come out of your room the conversation always becomes more lively. Matt, dude, this has been awesome mainly because of the stupid things you have done and the free-living lifestyle you have. Kyle, for the second straight summer (and even longer) I got to live with you. I'll be honest, this year wasn't as awesome as that summer, but the school year ruins that. Thanks for being who you are though and don't change that. Pat, man, all I can say is without you, I never would have had the greatest night of my life and I'm honored to be a part of how your birthday began. Thank you all so much for making this what it was.

To the Hofstra Athletic Department: Athletic Director Jack Hayes, thank you for allowing us at WRHU to do what we love doing. You could easily sign a professional broadcast but you don't and I think I speak for all of us at WRHU Sports, past present and future when I say thank you. In the athletic communication office, Jim Sheehan, Jeremy Kniffin, Len Skoros, Brian Bohl and Stephen Gorchov. I have gotten to know you all very well over the last four years and I am so happy that I got that chance. Stephen, I can't count the memories you and I have had on road trips and I truly thank you for helping me grow more than you realize. Len, it's a been a blast this past season working on baseball and I hope you give every guy after me the same hard time you gave me.

To the Hofstra Coaches: Every single one of you is so generous with your time to us at WRHU and I can't thank you enough for that. To Pat Anderson, Skip, this has been one of the greatest joys of my life and I hope I made it fun for you. My biggest goal when I came here was to call Hofstra Pride baseball and I'm so happy to see you have the program going in the right direction. To Richard Nuttal, it was so much fun working with you in the fall and the previous three years of my career. You've been very gracious with everything and I truly do thank you. To Simon Riddiough, you are one of the best people to talk to off the field and off the mic because you have a personality that is just infectious. Finally, to John Russo. Coach, as a graduating senior I can't thank you enough for relieving the primal fear of being unemployed. My life's dream is call baseball games and this summer you have taken a chance and given me the opportunity to do that. Thank you, so much.

To Hofstra Men's Basketball: Coach Mo Cassara and the rest of the staff, thank you so much for making covering Men's Basketball enjoyable. That isn't to say it wasn't before, but you guys made it that much more fun. Coach, you're a great guy to talk with and always willing to have a good time and that certainly makes me more comfortable. To the players I've had the opportunity to know, namely Charles Jenkins, Greg Washington, Brad Kelleher, Antoine Agudio, Miklos Szabo, Mike Moore and David Imes; you guys have been awesome. You were always willing to talk to us and gave us some great insight. Charles, I'm honored to be able to call a soon to be NBA player a friend. Greg and Brad, I'm beyond honored to walk out the door with you guys as seniors. Mike and David, you guys have this program ready to rock next year and it was fun covering you this year. Thanks.


To Hofstra Women's Basketball: Anyone who knows me knows I can't leave this program out. Coach Krista Kilburn-Steveskey, you are beyond incredible. The last three years of covering this team made me enjoy this industry more than I ever could have imagined. You enjoy our coverage more than any coach I had the pleasure of working with. You always loved seeing us there and you always gave me information that made my broadcasts better. I will forever remember the trip to Texas last December, our trip to the WNIT and beating Penn State and getting ice cream and of course the incredible win at Drexel. Your staff has always been amazing as well. From Shalon Pillow and Danielle Santos to Faisal Kahn, Jess Manetti, Bill Ferrara and Tanika Price. You all follow the mold that I've come to know and love of the Hofstra Pride coaching staff. I wish I could stay here and cover this team forever. To the players, all the way from Natty Fripp and Nikki Williams to Kate Loper and Annie Payton. Y'all are my favorite group of people I've ever been around. Your personalities are tremendous and your love for the game is even higher. I have made three great friends within this team: Sam Brigham, Nicole Capurso, and Candice Bellochio. The three of you are hilarious, talented and amazing. Sam, last year was awesome. From sitting in the Houston airport watching Boondock Saints to discovering your mom's cookies, I'm glad I got the chance to know you. Nicole and Candice, I can't believe the level to which you two have helped bring this program to. Candice, I remember watching you in Richmond with a broken arm trying to match Chuck in his trick shots and thinking this was the attitude of the team and I love it. Nicole, we got to be closer friends this semester in class and yes, that post-game after Drexel was intense. To anyone reading this, please go support this team and this program. They deserve so much fan support that it's almost criminal they don't. In my opinion they have the last two Rookies of the Year in the CAA in Shante Evans and Kate Loper. Not to mention an incredible group of veterans and coaches. Please go watch them, they deserve more than anyone. I can truly say the only greater joy I had than being a fan of this team, was being a reporter covering them.

To my Second Family: Victoria Rossi. Sweetheart, I remember telling you as you drove me to the ER to get my dislocated finger that I have a conundrum with relationships that sometimes ends them. You looked passed that and 2 1/2 years later, I couldn't be happier you did. I'm so proud of you and what you have accomplished and I love you more than I could ever admit, just because that's who I am. To Bill and Deborah Rossi, thank you for letting her be a part of my life and giving me another spot to call "home". Bill, sir, I truly do mean what I said on Sunday night. I wish I could have met her mother and I know that I can never love Victoria more than you do, but I hope that I can at least make you and her mother proud of the fact that she is with me. Tina, you're a crazy one, but I love you all the same. I'm sorry I couldn't be around more with your sister gone but know that every night I came over and got to be a part of your life, I truly enjoyed it.

To my Extended Family: On my mother's side, thank you all for understanding why I wanted to break the chain of our family going to Norwich University and supporting me in what I've accomplished here. On my father's side, thank you for being a place I can go to whenever I need to get back to family or just away from the stresses of college. I hope I make you all proud one day.

To my Family: My younger brother Brandon. I said this Sunday night, but seriously kid, please get your head together. You have all the potential in the world to be someone great and once you realize that you'll reach that potential quicker than you could ever imagine. To my youngest brother Mikey, you have the best parts of Brandon and I. You have his raw talent and my work ethic. These two qualities will make you the most successful of the three of us. I wish you would have stayed with baseball because those five years as your coach were the best five years of my life. To my mother, who is the strongest woman I know, thank you. Thank you for letting me leave home and be the man you want me to be. I miss you every day and I'm sorry I can't be there more when the boys give you fits or you need a hug from your son. I'm a true Momma's boy (I'm actually tearing up as I write this part), and you always be my first love. To my father, since I can remember, everyday of my life has been a pursuit to make you proud. Whether it was being more involved in Church, wrestling in high school or whatever, I just wanted to live up to the level of respect and admiration others have for you. We've come a long way since that recruiter was sitting in our living room talking about the nice office in Kuwait City I was going to sit in. Hearing you say you're proud of me is one of the greatest accomplishments I've ever had and I hope I continue to do that. I love you all very much.

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One of the things I've always preached is that college is $40,000 a year to learn time management. My best times were managed in the walls of WRHU. While my diploma may say "Hofstra University" my education came in a studio, on a team bus, in the field reporting, or just in the main office goofing around. This place is the hardest place to leave. But, as a man who truly has been all over the place, this is one of the few places I will always call home. Thank you everyone so much. It has been a fabulous ride and I can't imagine changing anything.

The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same

I wrote this back in February on a piece of paper and just stumbled across it. Found it amusing, hope you do too.


It's weird, ya know, I was watching the movie "3:10 to Yuma" the other day. It's a Western movie with Russell Crowe and Christian Bale. Crowe plays this renegade outlaw who gets caught because of Bale's character. But Bale plays this rancher who is crippled from the Civil War and is in dire financial needs due to a drought.

Anyway, it got me thinking. Our society really hasn't changed much since the pioneer days. Aside from inflation and technology bringing different kinds of jobs there are basically three types of people in the world. You have your middle class people who get the mildly glamorous high paying jobs; the blue-collar workers who rely on the good gracious of whats been given to them to earn a living. And then there is Ben Wade.

While the idea of Ben Wade is an outlaw who kills and steals to make his way through life, I find a different meaning to his role. Wade is a guy who does what he has to to survive. He could easily be a banker, or a lawyer, or an artist (Wade is a brilliant artist in the film.) Or, he could rely on what Bale's character does, the land to provide for his family. Instead, Wade is a criminal. He bends, and breaks, the rules of society constantly traveling to country wreaking havoc on those who stand in his way.

While the movie depicts him as a criminal and an outlaw, I like to consider the idea of Ben Wade as something more beneficial: a hero.

Think about it. Here is a guy who is hell bent on staying alive, staying on his own path, simply so that he can continue on the life he has. Isn't that the American Dream?

I get that he steals and kills and makes the lives of others absolute hell, but consider this: haven't we always been told that we can be whatever we want to be as long as we do whatever it takes, and not to let anyone tell you you can't and don't let any sonuvabitch stand in your way? Isn't that what Ben Wade does?

And yes, Bale's character is the "good guy" of the film, but he and Crowe's screenplays are the same person, just on different spectrum's of the law. Bale does whatever it takes, including abandoning his wife and deathly ill son, just to make sure a hardened criminal is locked away.

While that is the righteous thing to do, consider the final fifteen minutes of the picture. Wade constantly is trying to persuade Bale to set him free, double the reward, and Bale refuses simply because the story he told his sons about losing his leg in the war is not as heroic as it seems. In fact, it's embarrassing. He wants to do something that will make his family proud of him.

Upon hearing the actual tale, Wade decides to help Bale's character get him on the train to Yuma prison. He even kills every member of his own gang after they (SPOILER ALERT!!!!) after they kill Bale's character. He then jumps on the train to Yuma, completing Bale's heroic quest, but not before admitting that he has escaped the prison before. Twice.

I guess the conclusion is that there are two types of heroes. The one who does what he can until an extraordinary chance comes along to do something right. And the one who blazes his own path so the ends justify the means. My question to you then, is this: in this "dog-eat-dog" world, which one would you rather be?

Halloween Reflections

Apparently I wrote this after a party we had at our house Halloween weekend, why I didn't post it then I have no clue.

It’s funny how when you’re all alone you feel the most crowded. We had a party tonight at the house to celebrate All Hallow’s Eve (hence why I’m writing this at 4:30 a.m. Anyways, as the party dies down I begin to notice a couple of things: 1) that many people should never be in that tight a space and (probably the more significant to this piece) 2) who is staying in with me? The answer is no one. You see, my better half is currently in Boston. And that’s great. I’m proud of her for where she is and what she is doing. The problem is I’m the kind of guy who is just that. A guy. I began recognizing the strange phenomenon about men early into my senior year of high school. It’s what made me who I am currently.


Guys have this incredible conniption. We all feel need to be wanted but we don’t want to be needed. Let me explain. Every guy wants to be the best athlete, the one who with the game on the line is relied upon the most: a need to be wanted. Not all of us want to be the guy who is depended upon day in and day out to make everything ok: the want to be needed. Ladies, ever wonder why your man seems distant at random points? Or acts as if he doesn’t care? It’s not because he doesn’t care, it’s because he doesn’t want to be depended upon as the knight in shining armor every single day. And that really is a shame because men were put on this earth to provide for and cherish the woman we are placed with.

In a more simple way, I remember this girl I had in high school. She was incredible. We didn’t really start dating until my freshman year in college, when all the stupid high school bullshit went away and we both finally figured out what we thought we wanted. When we started dating I was back visiting my old high school pals for New Years. While I was out with her and our mutual friend at Target, she had her arms wrapped around me. In a moment of sheer “who the hell knows” she looked at me, buried her head into my chest, and sighed. I melted. I thought in that moment, “Wow. This girl is actually happy that she’s mine and I’m hers.” There is no better feeling in the world than recognizing that.

What made it even better was that was the moment that I realized she “wanted” me but I knew that she didn’t “need” me. She had the ability to provide for herself; to make herself happy, and maybe that is what made her so attractive in the first place. I knew that she didn’t need me to make her happy, but the fact that she wanted me to, and that I did, was a sense of fulfillment you can’t find anywhere else. Unfortunately, or fortunately depending how you look at it (yeah, fortunately), that didn’t last long and we ended up no more.

I don’t where she is, or who she’s with, all I know is that she is happy and that is what matters the most. I, myself, am with Mrs. Boston. And I couldn’t be happier with that. I know that she wants me in her life and wants me to make her happy. But I also know that she is strong willed enough to not need me. That sense of fulfillment again. I felt in for the first time on that winter’s day at 18. I know understand it at age 21, it’s awesome.

What makes it even more astounding is what it will subconsciously do to you. Look back at the first question I asked at the top of this: who is staying with me? No one. And that’s awesome. I know that I’m going to post this, shut down my computer, roll over and fall asleep alone. Not by my own doing, but because the sense of fulfillment I enjoy keeps me from being the stereotypical asshole that is untrue to the one he is with. Amazing what being wanted will do to you. Even if the one that wants you isn’t there at the end of the night.

Puerto Rico Proof and Purpose

Hello world. Been a while, hasn't it? First, let me say that I am writing this while I am sitting in my hotel room on my final night in San Juan, Puerto Rico the Sunday before Thanksgiving. Why am I in Puerto Rico? Why am I on a blog when in tropical paradise? First, I was broadcasting my college's Men's Basketball team as they were in a tournament here (perks of radio, I know). Secondly, we have a 9 a.m. flight tomorrow and have to be on the bus by 6 a.m. at the latest so it is an early night for me.

On to the reason why I am actually writing this. Amidst the sun-bathing, game-calling, rum-drinking and overal relaxation of the week, I read a book. For those who know me, take a moment to let that settle in. No this was not a coloring book nor was it a sports book. This book was entitled "I Hope They Serve Beer In Hell" by Tucker Max. Some of you have heard of this book and know what it is. The few who don't, this guy Tucker Max chronicles his own "escapades" involving massive alcohol consumption and fornicating with random women.

Again, the people who know me are now not surprised I read this book. Many would consider me a small version of Mr. Max (my girlfriend claims I look a bit like him. "You two have the same smirk" she tells me.) What may be surprising is I read the entire 300+ pages in only 5 days. I DON'T READ! After I finished the book, I actually stood aghast at what I had just accomplished. Having said that, I took a moment to reflect on what I just digested.

I have come to four main conclusions after reading what I can only describe as a piece of self-gratifying musings:

1) I am NOT Tucker Max. Let me say that again: I AM NOT TUCKER MAX! Yes, I'm a bit of a jerk, maybe even a dick at some point; but the manner in which he treats women and strangers in general is appalling. Momma raised me better. In public I may come off a little harsh and as an asshole (and I accept that) but ask anyone who truly knows me, and I'm not that type of person. Not to mention, the man glorifies his sexual promiscuity. Every guy does this, but the man treats it like it is his job to degrade and sleep with as many women as possible. It's deplorable, bordering on criminal.

2) Some women truly are sluts. The stories read in IHTSBIH really show that. Some women will sleep with anyone once they get alcohol in them, some will sleep with any guy who is mildly famous and some truly do love assholes. That last one probably has some of you going "DUH!" And guys, if you want a quick one-nighter, check your local excuse for a "college bar" (unless you live in like NC or TN or a school with a legit football program; yes legit football program = legit college bar) and pick up anything that looks like it has a pulse by being a complete and total ass. If you actually want a girlfriend (a 3-star on the Tucker Max Female Rating Scale, by the way) then be respectful and meet a girl in a casual way, at a small party, through a friend, etc. Basically, what you want is what you get in relationships (same for you, ladies.)

3) Tucker Max is AWESOME! The guy is hilarious. His writing is very graphic and detailed which enthralls any reader and no matter if you like him or his methods, you can't put the book down. Obviously the stories are not every day occurrences, and he explicitly says that, but damn does the dude know how to party. Not to mention if I were a single man (which I am happily not. Love you, sweetheart) I would kill to hang out with Tucker and pick off what the vulture leaves as scraps. If you ever come across this post Tucker, email me and let's do it up country style!

4) The guy is not a writer. He is a blogger. His only creativity comes in the various ways he is able to destroy and insult people as mercilissly as Hades would if he were spawned on Earth. The fact that this was a New York Times Bestseller shows what power the internet has (it also could be proven by the amount of women he has been with due to his site.) Honestly, people purposely using a sound recorder to have a copy of the previous night's debauchery in hopes of gaining an audience is kinda ridiculous.

Wait, then what am I doing here? Maybe....oh, God. Maybe I am a bit of Tucker Max. Oh well, dude is pretty effin awesome.