Bleacher Report - Articles by Alice Meikle

The Tragic Departure Of a Hometown Hero

Alice Meikle — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 09:46:13 -0400

Several years ago, when I was first doing my research and weighing my options to become a sports agent, someone made a big impact on my life. I guess he had seen the fire in my eyes, and saw what I wanted to do to help his fellow pro football colleagues.

That someone was Steve McNair.

I met Steve and his brother at an Arena Football game here in Florida, where his brother was the quarterback, for the Florida Bobcats. A friend who has just retired from baseball was giving me a look behind the scenes on my quest to become a sports agent, and introduced me to him.

I can tell you that Mr. McNair was very warm, seemingly kind-hearted and extremely encouraging. He told me to do my best and keep my nose clean. And even after that, I could hear his words and other such kind words echoing inside my head as I conducted business as an agent.

As the tragic news hit me on Saturday, it quickly came to pass that the pro football player that I had met and watched on TV was taken away from his family in tragic fashion. The speculation is mounting and frankly, none of that is my business right now.

As always, I will rise above the fray and commend the man who donated his time and efforts to the community. I will lift up his efforts to his hometown during the time of Hurricane Katrina, and celebrate with all the players and fans who got to meet him, or people whose lives he toughed.

At the end of the day, Steve McNair suffered a tragic death, leaving behind a wife and mother of his two children. I am not condoning his shortcomings and the public disgrace Mechelle McNair must face, but will willingly admit that we are all human.

We have to remember that life gives the greatest opportunity to shine and the biggest temptations to fail. It is upon us to choose, how we are remembered. So today as a sports fan, mother, former wife, sports agent, volunteer and mentor, lets pick the opportunities of success and always second-guess the people we let into our live.

To Mechelle McNair, our prayers are with you on this difficult journey, and please do not look back.

RIP, Steve McNair.

Breakfast At Wimbledon Williams Style

Alice Meikle — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 17:05:10 -0400

If I were a betting woman, I would have been raking in cash an hour ago, as my two favorite tennis divas finished their semifinals in winning form, heading into a sister-sister matchup on Center Court of Wimbledon in the women’s final on the Fourth of July. As a tennis fan and one who especially cheer for the sons and daughters from our soil. I am truly happy for Venus and Serena who have on many occasions held that flag way up high for American Tennis.

Serena and Venus matchups are my favorites, but I am always very torn, as I have a problem deciding which sister I will cheer for. I normally just go with the flow, cheering for Serena because she is the little sister and rooting for Venus when she has no mercy as a big sister.

But all in all, I will be watching the finals with a lot of pride for these two legends in their own rights. Serena, a two-time Wimbledon champion, was pushed to the limit by the fourth-seeded Dementieva but raised her game when she needed in one of the most compelling women's matches at the All England Club in years.

She saved match point and overcame Elena Dementieva 6-7 (4), 7-5, 8-6 in an overwhelming fashion, setting up another championship match against sister Venus. The 2-hour, 49-minute epic of a match ended when Dementieva sailed a backhand wide. And in true Serena signature style, she threw her head back, pumped her arms and hopped up and down in celebration.

It was Serena's eighth straight win in a Grand Slam semifinal going back to the 2003 French Open. She is now 14-2 overall in Grand Slam semifinals. The results set up a second straight and fourth overall women's final here between the Williams siblings. One Williams or the other has won seven of the past nine championships at the All England Club.

Venus and Serena Williams won in contrasting fashion Thursday to set up their fourth all-sister Wimbledon Five-time winner Venus needed only 51 minutes to overwhelm Dinara Safina 6-1, 6-0 and reach her eighth Wimbledon final.

Venus is bidding to become the first woman since Steffi Graf in 1991-93 to win Wimbledon three years in a row and is trying for No. 6 overall. Serena beat Venus in the 2002 and 2003 finals at the All England Club

There have been seven all-Williams championship matches at majors, with Serena holding a 5-2 lead. Overall, the sisters are tied 10-10.

"Oh my God, this is my eighth final, and it's a dream come to true to be here again and have the opportunity to hold the plate up," Venus said. The sisters—with 17 Grand Slam titles between them—will face each other Saturday in a Fourth of July final.

"A fourth final—it's so exciting. It was so hard before my match to watch all that drama," Venus said, referring to Serena's semifinal. "It was so difficult. But the hardest part is next to come, to play Serena Williams."

My most perfect sports moment: breakfast at Wimbledon, all-Williams final on Fourth of July—priceless.

Rush Limbaugh's NFL Ambition Needs a Full Time Out

Alice Meikle — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 11:24:03 -0400

Sports over the years have long been a safe heaven for me to hide from the everyday stress of life, whether it be the failing economy or the disappearing dividends in my financial portfolio.

I have turned to sports for a good laugh, and when I come home to unwind, frankly speaking, I would rather watch sports with friends than have a glass of my favorite wine.

It's simply because I get the same satisfaction from a great competition, be it golf with Tiger in the lead on Sunday or LeBron James firing the two-second buzzer beater to win the game.

My friendship with sports and other sports fans resides deep in the core of me ,and I have scored some lifetime friendships with lovers of all things sports. Sports have given me the chance to be friends with the most right-winged Republican, to the guy or girl who votes Democrat or independent.

I have never mixed sports and politics, as I have long thought that it could be bad for my golf swing. I sometimes think Republicans make for better golfers., but I have never held that little voting right or opinion against any of my fellow golfing friends or even another sports fan.

So today when as I found out that there is a slight possibility that Rush Limbaugh could become a contender in the ownership of the St. Louis Rams, I was so disappointed.

I am disappointed that the NFL Owners would even consider such a proposal, regardless of how desperate they might get. In an era where race relations are said to be improving here at home, why would we make a hundred steps backwards to give Rush a say in something that we sports fan enjoy without seeing color?

As sports fan, I see talent, skill set, determination, drive and ambition, and it does not matter if it's Phil Mickelson punching a difficult shot from behind a tree and sticking it close to the pin or it's Rashard Lewis hitting one from way downtown to eliminate my Cleveland Cavaliers from the Eastern Conference Finals. Something tells me that all sports fans are equally charged in that regard.

To bring Rush Limbaugh into this pure sporting environment, it would be a sad day in history. After all, a large majority of the NFL players are black and Rush Limbaugh has for years disrespected a player or two, using some very colorful and demeaning undertones.

How would we be guaranteed that he would keep his mouth shut on his radio show after the Rams has suffered a loss? How can we be sure he would not chant his inner Imus when a player on his team commits the unthinkable, or gets in trouble with the law? Will he then treat it as a problem plaguing the NFL or just a color problem?

Will he bash other NFL players who sport braids, tattoos and dreadlocks, in his quest to clean up the NFL’s image? Or will he be offensive and call out Donovan McNabb again, telling him that he is washed up or overrated as a black quarterback.

I do not like this threat of Rush dragging politics and his off-colored remarks into my Sunday or Monday NFL game. Sports is an entertainment outlet for all fans, and so many NFL fans play Monday Morning Quarterback, simply because all NFL fans strongly believe they have the answers for all the errors committed during the game, but tell me, would Rush Limbaugh know to how handle his opinion in the “Red Zone?”

I think we sport fans would like to either pass on or throw that idea up for an interception.

Brett Favre, Take a Chill Pill

Alice Meikle — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 22:04:21 -0400

Okay, in the words of my 17-year-old, "I am not a hater," but for god sakes, Brett Favre, grow up.

I am normally a level-headed professional, but you are making me question the meaning of tears and good-byes. I have stuck in there with you, Brett, through all of the wins and losses with the Packers, through the painkillers allegations, through the tearful goodbyes, and yes, the shameless returns.

I stood up for you all the way in Florida, dude. If I wore tattoos, I would have the number four inked on my arm—or maybe not. But I hope that helps you figure out why I am calling for you to grow up.

Your on and off again relationship with the Packers is like the boy meets girl, boy sleeps with girl, boy dumps girl number on Broadway, and the last time I checked your name is not "Joe."

Brett, I do not know if you are scared, but if you are, I can understand. As an agent, you and I know there is life after football, so there is no need to keep going back to the NFL to redeem your ego.

You are name brand and endorsement material. Please go out like Mike.

If it's revenge you are seeking, why did you leave GBP to go to the Jets? Are you that bitter, Brett? I want to give you the benefit of the doubt, but I am running out of excuses for you, and you simply don't have any excuses I could use.

You asked for your release from the Jets after knowing your season-ending numbers were not up to par. You even told many sports reporters that you would not play next season.

Brett, you kept the status of your shoulder hush-hush, and have been playing games with the Vikings. One minute you are on, the other you are going to stay retired. Your agent is an even bigger liar, and you are both playing games with the current Vikings QB.

I guess you will step on, pass over, and throw any incomplete pass just to prove to the GBPs that you had your way. My dear, take it from a former polo player: I still like horses, but that does not mean I should try to play polo at age 43.

If you do come back next season to stick out your chest at the Packers, please leave me out of it. I do not want any part of your tears and goodbyes.

Don't make any appeal for "fans" to support you, because I speak for fans, near and far, who are tired of your Kate Perry tune. Yes, Brett, you hot, then you are cold...in and then out, you kiss and make up, now you fail to show up.

Realize this Brett: No one is losing sleep if you don't come back, and no one is dreaming that you are. Call me a "hater" if you wish, but I do not get paid to be your enabler.

So You Want To Play In the NFL

Alice Meikle — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 08:31:24 -0400

If you should ask every college athlete who is getting ready to enter the draft if he had a childhood dream of playing professional football, his answer would be yes. And after all, a college athlete getting ready to enter the NFL Draft has partially realized half of his childhood dreams.

Whether he is a Heisman Trophy candidate or slated to go in the seventh round, every draft prospect has his idea of how it will be after the draft and during the season.

It has well been documented that the road to the NFL draft is one filled with hope and expectations. And most times, what happens in between the draft and the season is what we have never really addressed with athletes looking to us as their agents for advice.

First of all many dreams sometimes come up short, while others are fulfilled. First round draft prospects fall to the sixth rounds and fifth round athletes get drafted in the second round. So how does an athlete overcome the obstacles and continue towards their childhood dream, if the draft does not measure up to their expectation? One word—PREPARATION.

They say when preparation meets opportunity success is realized, but I would go even further to encourage any prospective client to put these five Ps to work – “Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance”.

These five words should be the basis by which every athlete should exist. From the moment the athlete decides to enter the draft, he should have decided upon a reputable agent, who will advice him on his options going into the draft.

The athlete should also decide how he will prepare for the combines and his college pro day. The agent can be very instrumental and resourceful with pre-draft preparation and should be available to the athlete during this process. Of course, every athlete wants the best agent, but having the best agent who is not available to you can be the difference between success and failure.

The agent you choose sometimes is the foundation for your success, as the relationship between the pro team and your prospective agent can also make the difference. Since your reputation and your skills are the two biggest selling points, your agent is expected to have the same.

So you are equipped with your agent, your training for the combines and prop day is in progress. Your next matter of business should be discussing your draft options with your agent…what if you did not get drafted? What would be your next move? You should always be exploring your other options, if for some unforeseen reason draft day passes by.

The job of a professional athlete is a professional one and should be treated like a nine-five. You have to spend time as an athlete researching about the general managers and coaching staff of the teams that are showing interest in you. Do not leave everything up to your agent, as some of these teams might fly you in for a visit and interact with you without your agent being present.

Your reputation on and off the field can be critical to where you are positioned on draft day, so it would be in your best interest as a draft prospect to keep your nose clean. You still have to show that you have more than just playing skills and great physical talent.

Be careful of the advice you listen as some might be good and some could prove detrimental. Work with your family and your agent to see what is right for you and what best fits your situation.

Professional football is hard work and should not be taken as a walk in the park. Athlete should employ patience in all their everyday activities, because you always one pick away from being number, one pick away from the last, one pick away from being an undrafted free agent and the next guy who has to take the long way in through the CFL or AFL.

Whichever way you go, make and leave a lasting impression. Be Patient, be punctual, be humble, choose the right people in your corner, create and maintain a great relationship with your agent and make sure that agent does the same for you.

My Letter to Kobe Bryant and the Lakers

Alice Meikle — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 17:01:50 -0400

Dear Kobe:

I know I have not showed you any love during the regular season and less so in the playoffs, simply because I have been cheering for the other puppet in the now famous Nike ad.

However, please do not take it personally—it's nothing about you.

It's more about me, why I chose LeBron over you. Simply put, it had to do with that Bob Marley shirt he sported one day and that helped me to look into his soul.

But please, let bygones be bygones. It's time to look ahead. I know you heard about LeBron's surgery, so please do not text him, twitter or call him to tell him, that I am rooting for you. Kobe, please tell your teammates to be on board, because I want revenge against the Magic.

Yeah, yeah, I am from South Florida and need to be loyal—come on, loyal to the guys that ticked off my classy LeBron at the end of the series? Oops, don't worry, I think you are classy too.

I want pain and suffering for the Magic, and since the referees were not kind to the Cavs and not even Congress wanted to introduce a bill for fairness, maybe you and Phil can take a shot at it. I want totally lock down, foul out Howard, send Lewis to school, as to Alson and Pietrus tell Fisher, I know he already knows what to do.

Oh, and what is this nonsense with Pietrus and your shoe? Its' not like he has a shoe deal, it's either he wears the best or goes shoeless. As to Nelson, with due respect, he wants to come back? Tell him to take a chill pill, after all he projected his comeback to be preseason. What is he anointed by ying and yang?

Kobe, I have to go because LeBron gave me a word limit on this blog post. So I am chanting my inner Phil Jackson, Pat Riley, Magic Johnson, Kareem—and if that's not enough, here is some Vince Lombardi: "Winning is not everything, its the only thing."

Peace out, but remember the numbers 4, 15, and 10: 4 so you can silence Shaq, 15 for the Lakers' total number of Championships , and 10 for the Zen Master Phil.

Yours Truly,

As Obsessed Sports Fan

A Sports Fan's Lament

Alice Meikle — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 14:16:38 -0400

I must confess that my years as a high school athlete have left me with an obsession for sports, so much so, I became a sport agent, and to be a sports agent is no easy task. Of course I have been managing talent and egos for the last three years, but it’s a job I will never exchange. However, the sports agent is separate from the sports fan, and as the fan I must tell you I am a big lover of all things sports. Ask my mailman, he can tell you a few stories, about the stock pile of magazines that comes to my house. Trust me, when I say, I read them cover to cover.

I believe that the stress relief I get from watching sports is second to nothing else and maybe tied with my love for playing golf. You do not have to ask, if my golf game suffers during the NBA and NFL seasons. My golfing buddies will tell you that during the NBA season there are early tee times on Saturdays and Sundays and during the NFL season I play early or none at all.

With the NBA season getting ready to shut down for this season, hello golf game until NFL training camp. I am officially going through the NBA withdrawal already, as I have polished my clubs twice in one week and is able, to hold an entire conversation on the phone with my golf buddies, without the usual silence on the other line. Give them a few weeks and I will be back to fan-mode as usual, when the NFL gets off.

Not to mention the others sports I follow, there is international cricket, by the way I am mad at West Indies Cricket Captain, Chris Gayle – another blog post for that one. There is Rugby, Premier League Soccer – oh Manchester United, how I love thee. There is European Tour Golf and PGA Golf here state side. There is polo, boxing, Formula 1 racing – Girl Power to Sarah Fisher, Milka Duno and Danica Patrick.

What can I say, I am that all round sports fan, who has the occasional panic, when one season is finish, and I might have a week or two of no sporting events to watch or go to. I am a huge fan of twitter and have made friends with some sports buddies, who make up a little “network of rants and raves”. We give our two cents on the play calling, officiating, players, coaches and anything relevant during the games. We exchange sports articles, support each others’ blogs and have a great old time.

At the end of the day, sports help me to block life’s little distractions. It provides humor, suspense and intrigue, it creates friends, it makes those same friends your enemies in a good way and it helps me to bond with my children.

So as we wave goodbye to the NBA in a week, the NFL is right around the corner, PGA Tour is still in full swing, World Cup Qualifiers are in progress, and when all fails, there is my handicap index that needs to be shaved, think about it, my life is beautiful. Of course there is always my blog, where I express myself about what else – sports. Happy trails fellow sports fans, this sports fan is going to see what the postman brought in today.

Spike Lee Is Not in a New York State of Mind

Alice Meikle — Thu, 21 May 2009 15:53:35 -0400

Spike Lee has long been one of my favorite filmmakers, simply because I feel that he totally gets it from start to finish. He is a no-nonsense guy, who takes on issues from race relations to global warming.

And if you ever need to find Spike during basketball season, he would be affixed to a courtside seat watching the New York Knick. I thought of Spike as such a loyal fan, that nothing could convince me otherwise.

But convince me no more, I have witnessed it with my own eyes, as Spike made a switcharoo, and took his loyalty to the LA Lakers and the likes of Kobe Bryant.

I recently watched the “Kobe Doing Work documentary which Spike so eagerly produced and is now wondering why Spike dumped on the New York Knick, setting sights on the glitz and glamour of LA. Yes, Kobe is the next coming of MJ, but Spike has to separate business from pleasure.

Now is not the time to bail out on the Knicks, Spike. I know you don’t care, and this is a free country, but do you care about the disabled team you are leaving behind?

I remembered the days when Spike had words for Reggie Miller when his Pacers were beating upon the Knick, making it a memorable moment with Miller’s triple three-pointers in eight seconds to close out Spike’s Knick. That Reggie/Spike drama could made a good docu-drama.

The recent struggles of the Knicks and their embattled former Head Coach Isaiah Thomas might have ruffled a few feathers, but no one could ever convince me that, there was life after the Knick for Spike.

So as we get ready to watch another game in the Lakers versus Denver series. Close your eyes when the television camera draws a spotlight on Spike because he is just trying to complete his Kobe project and forgot that the team he loves dearly is in NY.

Roger Goodell, the Chosen One

Alice Meikle — Thu, 21 May 2009 12:34:38 -0400

After reading this blog post, you might think that I am being hard on the NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell. These days, the Commish seems to be always in the line of my fire. His latest contribution for my target practice is the Mike Vick issue. The esteemed Commish has every right to meet with Mike Vick and determine whether or not to let him back into the No Fun League.

But his latest sound-bite from the owners meeting in my revered hometown is turning my stomach. Commissioner Roger Goodell, who suspended Vick indefinitely in August 2007, reiterated Wednesday he will review Vick's status after his criminal case is concluded. He has said Vick will have to persuade him and the public that he is genuinely sorry for his crime, has been changed by his experience and that he's committed to leading a different life.

Excuse me, Commissioner, as a member of the public at large, I thought Vick offered an apology of the sorts before he went to jail. I saw it for myself, and I was convinced that he seemed remorseful.

Commissioner Goodell said that Vick will have to meet with him and prove to him that he is reformed enough to play football and be reinstated, and that he, the Commish, will have to then make a judgment to reinstate the embattled star QB. Come on Commissioner Goodell, do you think you are to make further judgment on Mike Vick?

Don’t get me wrong, Vick is deserving of full punishment for breaking the law and for the cruelty which resulted to those poor helpless animals. But he has also served his time behind bars. While football might be the furthest from his mind, the commissioner should focus more on programs to help the players reform themselves as good standings citizens. Mike Vick should not be held as the poster boy for all the other players in the league who knowingly and unknowingly committed or harbored criminal intents.

Commissioner Goodell should choose his words carefully, as it does sound like he is standing way too high, judging all of the players and, in some way, the fans. The Commissioner might want to enlighten us as to the checklist he will bring to the Mike Vick meeting in his quest to render judgment on someone who has already served time for a crime.

James Harrison Steals the Spotlight

Alice Meikle — Tue, 19 May 2009 10:54:10 -0400

Of all the sound bites to make its way to the airwaves, I wouldn't have imagined to hear one from NFL Defensive Player Of The Year, James Harrison.

As far as I am concerned, Harrison's last attempt of 15 minutes of fame, was that cheap shot he took at Aaron Francisco, in the last Super Bowl.

But instead of quietly walking away from the spotlight, he decides to surface once again, with the award-winning most moronic comment of the century.

Harrison recently told a news station that if President Obama wanted to see the Pittsburgh Steelers, he should invite them to the White House down the road, when they are not the champs.

Unfortunately, for Harrison, he is insisting on shaking things up, as far as tradition is concerned.

But he failed to think about the historic moment for his team.

Mike Tomlin and the Steelers achieved a historic milestone together, and will mark another milestone meeting the first African American president.

Again, as far as I am concern, James Harrison does not get it.

Please James, give up being a moron for just one minute and be part of the team.

But if you choose to do the "White House Hold Out", the show must go on with out you.

Roger Goodell: What Was He Thinking?

Alice Meikle — Wed, 13 May 2009 12:39:19 -0400

I posted in my blog about the Super Bowl going to London in the very near future, for a one night only hit-or-miss presentation. It must have added fire to the popular amount of disgust of that idea.

I'm taking no credit for what my article did to Commissioner Goodell's conscience. Goodell has now changed his mind about the Super Bowl and, instead, said that a second regular season game will be played in Big Ben's city.

Commission Goodell, don’t you get it?

The two teams that were beaten over the head with a goal post to show up or relocate to London last season did not want to go. In fact, they hated it.

Goodell, maybe you should do some research in London. Take a double decker bus, interview the regular folks, and ask them if they care whether Ray Lewis runs down the Tunnel or breaks out his Gladiator antics. Ask them if they care about how Santonio Holmes caught that clutch TD in the last Super Bowl.

The Europe experiment failed and cost its parent company.

Roger, please give up this nonsense about worldwide fans—football will always be popular here and abroad, as there is a fan living just about anywhere around the globe. We will always find fans wearing NFL jerseys anywhere from South Africa to the moon.

But forcing American Football down the throats of Europeans and other people worldwide is a play that would have earned a fifteen yard penalty. Remember, Roger, football is called "American Football" abroad, so let's go ahead and thank our friends across the pond and beyond for reminding us in a subtle way to keep it American.

What do you plan to gain from this latest marketing push? It's still not working for the fans or players. However, my recommendation is to get Harrods Store to sponsor a stadium here, and we will decorate it as appropriately British, so the games in London could be played there.

Until then, let's change the NFL to mean "No Football London"—and I am running off to get my fish and chips.

American Super Bowl for Sale—Apply Within

Alice Meikle — Tue, 05 May 2009 17:53:50 -0400

I am not playing Monday morning Commish here, but the news I received today about the NFL, considering moving an upcoming Super Bowl to London, was rather disheartening. You see I am a football fanatic and way before I became a sports writer, I was a football fan, and not just any old fan—I am a female fan.

Years ago, I wanted to learn about football, in order to hang out with my then husband and his friends on Sundays, instead of making the drinks and asking questions about the plays. But after watching the 16 games over the 1992 season, I fell in love with the game of football and never looked back.

Yes football got me cool points with my husband and his friends, but I realized now that the game became more valuable to me.

Before long, I was like a sports analyst knowing the terminologies, reading the scheme of the 4-3-Defense, crafting my own plays for the two-minute drills. I yell at the television just like the boys do, agreed with the penalties, as long they were not being assessed against my team.

I even learned about the history of the game and knew players' stats from memory.

So fast forward ten years later, divorced and a single mom of two sports loving teenagers. Football will always be apart of our lives as a family, and is one of the ways we spend most weekends from September through January.

After the 2009 NFL Draft, I began hearing rumors and rumblings, about the possibility of the Super Bowl going to London. Like any other post draft rumor, I went in search of the truth.

I started digging deep trying to get facts from my friends in the business and even media sources. I began to weigh the pros and cons about the "novel" idea being presented by the Roger Goodell and his staff at the NFL office.

After all that deep thinking I came up with only one thought—plain and simple “the NFL must be stupid.”

The Super Bowl is an American product, an entertainment bloodline, a fan's stress relief and a serious family staple that comes once per year. So today when a little birdie told me that the rumors were confirmed, as a fan I moved the fear and disappointment “Super Bowl yellow” to red alert

This devastating news will shock mostly all football fans who have watched this memorable event year after year—from media day to the commercials.

This relocation of this American iconic event is an insult to the average football fan that can not travel to London to witness "so-called history" in the making. It stinks for the fan that marks his or her calendar for this social event.

Help me with this question Mr. Goodell, who wants to go to London to watch American football? Aren't we all suppose to learn a lesson from this current recession and "buy American"?

Well note to self Mr. Goodell—the Super Bowl is an all American.

We attend Carnival in Rio, but have you ever heard of the organizers moving this Brazilian cornerstone to America? Speaking with true Caribbean pride, carnival in Trinidad is no way close to the clone of a show held every year in London town.

The World Cup moves to different countries because it is the "World Cup". So once again, I will pose the question "What Was Goodell and the Boys Thinking?"

Football is not like soccer or cricket, where there is a great interest overseas because of successful teams stateside. A matter of fact the Toronto Raptors is popular in Canada because they are part of the NBA.

Think about this NFL shift in location, didn't the NFL try playing this tune before with the introduction of American football to the Europeans in the form of NFL Europe. NFLE as it was affectionately called was a brainchild of the former NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue.

The Euro-NFL never quite took off as it failed to pay for itself and left the NFL with a financial burden, when the league was cancelled a few years ago.

Americans are firm believers in their sports teams, and the average sports fan follows at least two or three major league teams. Most of my friends and colleagues cheer for teams on the east and west coast—AFC and NFC.

They are Eagles fans, Giants fans, Dolphins fans, Raider Nation (fans), and yes ,Jets fans. They bleed the colors of their teams all year round and especially September through January.

The National Football League has managed to establish themselves as a trendsetter in marketing, advertising and product placement. NFL games on Thanksgiving is a marquee date on most family calendar across the country, Christmas Day games have proven to be some hard fought battles, and the ESPN Documentaries recalls the great ones—hell they are great.

In fact, NFL the Product was nurtured by the Commish Paul Tagliabue. To me, Tagliabue understood what made fans tick, he knew what player development programs would be a hit, he knew about business and he cared a lot about the fan.

Tagliabue put the fun in the “No Fun League.” I am not knocking the new Commish Goodell, but I can't believe he got this stiff upper lip going about the Super Bowl. Yes I am all for branding and widening the demographics, but the Premier League would never, never have a thought of playing the Champions League in America.

Commissioner Goodell, let us set a level playing field for the American fans. Let us bring back, tailgating, media day, Super Bowl parties and not to forget the thousand of enthusiastic volunteers to our home land. Not knocking the Brits either, after all no sports fan can be compared to the soccer fans in Europe—hmmm…did I say Europe.

Randy Shannon to Receive Prestigious Keith Tribble Trailblazer Award

Alice Meikle — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 13:19:09 -0400

The Orange Bowl continues its community outreach effort in South Florida, as its reaches out to citizen’s young and old recognizing their contribution in education and sport. The ”OBC” especially placed their focus on youth academic and athletic programs says Lynn Washington, co-chair of the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida Orange Bowl Field of Dreams Committee.

The Orange Bowl Committee has been celebrating with America’s future leaders and the OBC’s legacy has been realized for some 75 years or more.

The Orange Bowl Committee will host its seventh annual Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida Field Of Dreams Scholarship Benefit on Friday May 8at the Broward County Convention Center, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida commencing with a reception at 7 p.m. followed by dinner and entertainment at 8 p.m.

The Orange Bowl Keith Tribble Trailblazer Award is annually presented to an innovator, pioneer and ground breaker, a person who has helped open doors, blazed trails and prepared a way for others to have better lives.

So it was only fitting when the OBC decided to select the 2009 recipient for this prestigious award, as University of Miami Head Football Coach Randy Shannon. The OBC feels that Randy Shannon has made an individual contribution, which has significantly impacted the South Florida community at large.

Shannon was named head football coach of the University of Miami on December 8, 2006. A native of Miami, Shannon, played at Norland High School before moving on to the University of Miami where he was a four-year letterman and starting outside linebacker on the 1987 National Championship team.

After graduation, he played for the Dallas Cowboys before moving into coaching at the University level, before joining the Dolphins staff. He returned to UM as defensive coordinator for six years, coaching top 10 defenses in five of those six seasons before being named the 20th head coach in school history.

Shannon, 43, played on or was a coach for three of the school’s five national championship teams. He is one of only seven African American head coaches from among the 119 schools in the Football Bowl Subdivision (formerly Division 1-A).

Other recognitions include Barrington Irving, the youngest and first black person to pilot a plane around the world solo, Christopher L. Smith Florida State Senator District 29 and founder of The Chris Smith All-star Football Classic, and Clarence Anthony former Mayor of South Bay and is presently the Chief Marketing Officer and Presiding Director of the Board of Directors for Post Buckley Schuh & Jernigan, Inc.

“Everything is in place for one of the more successful, star-studded and meritorious group of honorees since the Field of Dreams began. This promises to be one of the premiere events of the season.

Now part of the Orange Bowl Committee’s 75 year legacy, our Field of Dreams offers a can’t miss night of entertainment, recognition and the generous spirit of South Florida,” comments Antonia “Toni” Williams-Gary, Co Chair of the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida Orange Bowl Field of Dreams Committee.

The Field of Dreams Scholarship Benefit is an annual Orange Bowl Committee event with a purpose of providing college scholarship funding for deserving high school seniors.

The program has awarded individual scholarships, and contributed over $300,000 for African-American scholarships to organizations such as the Tom Joyner Foundation, The Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund, Florida Memorial University’s Athletic Scholarship Fund and the UNCF.

The Orange Bowl Committee is a not-for-profit, 330-member, primarily-volunteer organization. It is a self-sustaining, independent organization that supports and produces activities and events that enhance the image, economy and culture of South Florida. The Orange Bowl Festival features a year-round schedule of events culminating with the FedEx Orange Bowl on Jan. 5, 2010.

In 2013, the OBC will again double-host both the FedEx Orange Bowl and the BCS National Championship. Other OBC core events include the MetroPCS Orange Bowl Basketball Classic, Orange Bowl Youth Football Alliance, Orange Bowl International Tennis Championships and Orange Bowl Sailing Regatta Series.

For more information on the 2009-10 Orange Bowl Festival and its events, including promotional and volunteer opportunities through the Ambassador Program.

Pistons-Cavaliers: Detroit's Dominance Has Faded Away

Alice Meikle — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 11:33:44 -0400

The Cavaliers brought their “A” game and a broom to the Palace at Auburn Hills, and the Detroit Pistons provided enough for the Cavs to sweep.

The dominance of LeBron James, Mo Williams, and company proved to be superior to the Pistons for the seven-game series, which ended on Sunday after a four-game sweep.

The Pistons’, who made it to majority of the NBA playoffs over the last seven years, stayed in the game for most of the series, but were clearly outhustled and outplayed by a young and hungry Cavaliers’ team led by the phenom LeBron James.

In one way, I was truly happy for the Cavs and the leadership of the 24-year-old James, and on the other hand I was disappointed with the Pistons for their seemingly lackluster efforts.

After all, they were the ones who played hungry and were expected to come from behind and make it happen—they have done this over and over again. But by Game Three of the series, I knew that the Pistons’ era of winning had come to a crashing halt.

There are just some things about winners, their style of play and confident demeanor, and I did not think that the Pistons exhibited such a posture. Their energy seemed low. Yes, they hacked James around, but in the end he was far too strong to succumb to such attacks.

At one point during the series, I was taken aback after seeing the Pistons players neglecting to even assist their teammates up from the floor after a tough play. I know, giving the Pistons the benefit of the doubt, that they were on the losing side of the ball, but teamwork is a team effort with each player lending a hand.

No one can point to any one thing for their loss, but I am convinced that the remaining casts of players from their championship run were missing Ben Wallace and Chancy Billups, who moved on with other teams. What was the front office thinking, you might have asked?

But losing Wallace and Billups should be not an excuse, as players have to learn to pick up the pieces, gel and move on. Instead, I saw a bench who gave into losing. I saw the cast of starting five unsure of how to stop James and the Cavs.

The Cavaliers on the, other hand, were poised, eager, and comfortable, both from a coaching and player standpoint. They were relentless on defense and stunning on offense. They created plays after play, feeding the ball to whoever was open.

LeBron drove the lane, he slammed, and he hit jump shots. He was hammered on numerous occasions, but that did not stop him. Anderson Varejao powered his way defensively, and did his best to protest James and company from the angered Pistons at times.

During his post-game interview, James emphasized the “we” in their efforts and described how they pulled away from the Pistons, who have made the second round of the playoffs each of the last seven years.

The Cavs’ Joe Smith heroism in Game Three should not be overlooked, likewise the consistent efforts from Delonte West and Mo Williams over the entire series.

Notable mention should be give to Antonio McDyess, who was able to create some offense by hitting jumpers, tying his personal playoff best with 26 points on 11-of-18 shooting. Will Bynum also provided a spark off the bench with 22 points, but the rest of the team shot just 12 of 48.

Their efforts in the fourth game were not enough to carry them to a fifth game, and sadly we have to watch them ride of into the sunset until next season.

A look at the numbers for the Cavaliers:

							REBOUNDS
Player	G	GS	MIN	FGM-A	3PM-A	FTM-A	OFF	DEF	TOT	AST	STL	BLK	TO	PF	PTS
LeBron James	4	4	162	39-77	3-17	47-59	4	41	45	30	6	3	6	5	128
Mo Williams	4	4	148	23-52	8-25	5-9	3	6	9	22	3	1	11	13	59
Delonte West	4	4	164	17-37	2-7	10-11	1	15	16	16	5	2	12	6	46
Zydrunas Ilgauskas	4	4	111	20-45	1-2	4-5	3	22	25	8	1	5	4	10	45
Joe Smith	4	0	81	13-26	2-3	15-17	8	14	22	2	3	0	1	5	43
Anderson Varejao	4	4	133	8-16	0-0	5-8	8	12	20	1	4	4	4	7	21
Daniel Gibson	4	0	60	5-16	4-11	3-3	1	0	1	2	0	2	2	9	17
Wally Szczerbiak	4	0	38	1-3	0-2	6-6	5	5	10	2	1	0	1	4	8
Aleksandar Pavlovic	3	0	4	1-1	1-1	0-0	0	2	2	0	0	0	0	0	3
Ben Wallace	4	0	45	1-2	0-0	0-2	4	4	8	1	2	1	0	2	2
Tarence Kinsey	2	0	3	0-1	0-0	2-2	1	1	2	0	0	0	0	0	2
Darnell Jackson	3	0	10	0-2	0-0	0-2	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	2	0
Team Totals	4	0	960	128-278	21-68	97-124	38	122	160	84	25	18	44	63	374
Opponents	4	0	--	126-308	12-49	48-58	30	104	134	66	17	12	45	95	312

Pistons by the numbers:

REBOUNDS

Player

MPG

FG%

Jason Terry's the Winner, but What Is an NBA Sixth Man?

Alice Meikle — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 23:53:37 -0400

In the movies, if an actor steals the show and is actually on-par with the leading man or woman in his or her film, he or she is nominated for the “Best Supporting Role” award at the Oscars.

But in the game of basketball, there are five guys in the starting lineup, so the chance of having an equally skilled player on the bench is more likely, but his chances of making an impact are more valuable.

Over the years, the NBA has celebrated some of the best players with an award for the man who does the most off the pine. In case you're unaware, the prize is called the Sixth Man of the Year Award.

In an era where egos live at large in sports, the sixth man has to believe in himself and his team. He must be willing to sacrifice ego for the playing time given to him yet still hold it together to make a difference. The ideal sixth man is a leader, playmaker, shot-caller, and baller. He is motivated and the ultimate teammate.

This year, the honor of "Most Wanted Reserve" went to the Dallas Mavericks' Jason Terry.

To be eligible for this award, a player must come off the bench in more games than he starts in the season. When it comes to tallying the count to determine the winner, guys were awarded five points for each first-place vote, three points for each second-place vote, and one point for each third-place vote.

Terry received 576 of a possible 605 points (including 111 of a possible 121 first-place votes) from a panel of 121 sportswriters and broadcasters throughout the United States and Canada. J.R. Smith of the Denver Nuggets finished second with 155 point,s and Nate Robinson of the New York Knicks finished third with 113 points.

As part of its support of the Sixth Man of the Year Award, Kia Motors America will donate either a new Borrego SUV or Sedona minivan on behalf of Terry to the Rock T. Youth Foundation in Dallas. Kia Motors will actually be presenting a brand new vehicle to the charity of choice of each of four 2008-09 season-end award winners as part of their sponsorship of the top performers.

A sixth man in 63 of 74 games played this season, Terry averaged 19.6 points, 2.4 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.3 steals in 33.6 minutes. He shot .463 from the field, .366 from beyond the three-point line, and .880 from the free-throw line. Among NBA leaders, Terry ranked 10th in three-pointers made (167), 11th in free-throw percentage, 17th in steals, and tied for 22nd in scoring average.

This tenth-year veteran of the NBA averages more points than each of the last 18 Sixth Man of the Year winners and combined with Mavs teammate Dirk Nowitzki for the third-highest scoring average (45.5 ppg) among duos. The 6'2" guard had 33 games in which he scored at least 20 points as a reserve and 26 contests in which he matched or outscored the entire opposing bench.

The 2008-09 NBA Sixth Man Award is part of a series of on-court performance awards which also include the Most Valuable Player, Defensive Player of the Year, and Most Improved Player Awards. Kia also sponsors the Eastern and Western Conference Player of the Month Awards throughout the season.

Miami Heat Packed Light for Its Trip to Atlanta

Alice Meikle — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 22:57:05 -0400

There is a new rule for the Miami Heat players, and it's nothing the Collective Bargaining Agreement stipulated. The rule for the Heat players was self-imposed as they prepared for their trip to Atlanta. D-Wade and his team decided that they would enforce the "no-go-out" policy, making party attire optional for the Heat's trip. The Heat's approach will be all business and no pleasure. The nightlife scene in ATL is very similar to the South Beach scene, making it out of bounds for the fifth-seeded Miami Heat players.

The decision to take care of business was an all-around team effort, one which was fully endorsed by team captains Wade and Haslem. Wade and Haslem are the only remaining players from the 2006 NBA championship team. The "no-go-out" policy was decided on, long before the Heat players knew where they would play, and this policy was cemented when its destination became "ATL."

Haslem said that even though there are two full off days, late nights and carousing will not be tolerated. He said violators will be fined. Well, let's see if this policy will be a factor for the team's success.

Chicago Bulls and Rose Brought Zen to the Boston Celtics

Alice Meikle — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 01:19:27 -0400

The Chicago Bulls pulled off a chilling upset over the 2008 NBA Defending Champions Boston Celtics largely in part to rookie sensation Derrick Rose. The Celtics did not intimidate Rose one bit, as he plowed his way to a record breaking 36 points, four rebounds, and 11 assists, in his 50 minutes playoff debut.

The Kevin Garnett-less Celtics did their best to pick u the slack, but Rose and Noah played excellent defense and at times presented match-up problems for the down and out Celtics. It was obvious that Boston was missing the leadership, scoring and game intensity of Garnett.

With KG missing from the lineup, the Bulls were able to dedicate all the attention and strategy "boxing in" Paul Pierce and Ray Allen. Ray Allen was definitely feeling the heat in the kitchen as he shot 1 for 12 from the field. Pierce and Rondo tried to make a run at the scoring but Rose and the boys kept them on a pivot.

Celtics managed to keep the game close, but failed show any fire in the second half. Kevin Garnett who decided to stay in the locker room after the first half said that he did not want to be a distraction.

In my humble opinion, the distraction on the field was Mr. Rose and his cool and calm demeanor. It was more than obvious that Garnett's loss was felt as Rose dissected and carved up scoring opportunities—point after point.

Boston who failed to answer their call of duty down the stretch seemed incapable of even defending the home court.

Collectively, Pierce and Allen had a total of eight points in the first half, but Rajon Rondo kept Boston in the game. Pierce who got going in the second half, missed a key free throw with 2.6 seconds left in regulation, which would have put Boston up by one.

Looking back at the game, the biggest match up was that of Rose and Dondo going down the stretch. Even though Rondo scored 29 points, seven rebounds and nine assists in 44 minutes, Rose penetrated the lane with knowing that KG was not there to challenge him.

Rose was poised and confident and did not look like he need the much talked about experience to take him over the hump.

In Rose's debut he was better than Jordan and matched Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's Record in the 105-103 overtime win. Bulls' Tyrus Thomas contributed six of the eight points scored by the Bulls in overtime. Ray Allen continued to struggle as he too missed a baseline shot to cause the second overtime. Celtics will have to regroup for the next game.

John Madden Takes His Final Time Out

Alice Meikle — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 12:40:56 -0400

To say that I am a huge sports fan would be an understatement, but to say I am a bigger fan of NFL Hall of Fame Coach John Madden would be the biggest understatement. I am not the know-all and be-all on Madden, but I can hang with the big guns on some things Madden.

So you can tell that when I got the news that the NBC’s gavel-by-gavel announcer was calling his final time out, or should I say retirement, a bunch of his famous quotes and one-word descriptions just started rolling through my mind.

It seemed like only yesterday that I became a fan of John Madden and thought Pat Summerall and Madden were joined at the hips. John and Pat were a staple in my household, just like my favorite jerk chicken and ginger wine on Sundays.

To me, Sundays were never the same without him in the offseason, and no matter which television station held him under contract, John Madden had his loyal following. After all ,this is John Madden we are talking about—he puts the “Boom” in the word boom.

John Earl Madden was born on April 10, 1936. A former player in the American Football League, Madden was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 1958 as the 244th overall pick as an offensive tackle. His career with the Eagles was short lived, as he suffered a career ending knee injury during training camp and retired the following year.

After coaching stints with Buffalo State College and Allan Hancock College in California, Madden was hired at San Diego State University as an Assistant under Don Coryell. To this day, Madden credits Coryell for his influences and mentoring.

As Madden grew through the ranks in college, the former Cal Poly alum was hired by Oakland Raiders’ owner Al Davis as a position coach. John Madden was then placed within the Sid Gillman coaching philosophy.

Madden’s hard work and dedication helped the team to reach the Super Bowl that year. Following the 1967 season, head coach John Rauch resigned from the Raiders to accept the head coaching job with the Buffalo Bills. John Madden was promoted to head coach of “Da Raiders” on Feb. 4, 1969.

His era as a head coach was one filled with success and few disappointments. Coach Madden’s winning percentage, including playoff wins, were ranked first in league’s history. He won the Super Bowl and never had a losing season as a head coach.

But even though Madden kept the Raiders in the playoffs, ownership was not content, and after five title-game losses in seven years, the Raiders were described as the team who could not win the “big one.”

Madden was determined, and after suffering losses which left him and his team coming up short, the Raiders finally won a Super Bowl in 1977 against the Minnesota Vikings. Madden went on to become the youngest coach to reach 100 career regular season victories after 10 seasons, at the age of 42.

After John Madden retired from coaching, he moved to the television booth, and that is where his career grew even bigger. He was hired by CBS, where he worked through the ranks. By 1981, John Madden and Pat Summerall became the “it” sportscast duo.

The duo of Summerall and Madden went on to call eight Super Bowls—five for CBS and three for Fox Sports. After working a number of years with Fox, Madden made the move to NBC in 2006, to become the only sportscaster to call games for the “Big Four.” He teamed up with famed sportscaster Al Michaels to call the 2009 Super Bowl.

But John Madden is more than a bio. He is more than stats. He is larger than life.

He was afraid of flying, he has a luxury tour bus, he was colorful with his words, he was creative in his work and loaned his name and voice to the EA Sports Madden video games. Oh, how he makes my teenage son happy.

A colorful sports analyst who sets the stage with one-liners and one-word interjections—that was the John Madden I love. The words “boom,” “whap,” “doink,” were only some of his trademarked interjections. In my house lives a teenage boy who did not need a “Fathead” of any of his football heroes because John Madden lives in his head on Sundays and during all of the offseason.

So as Madden bids us farewell on a stage where his Hall of Fame bust will hang with the greats—coaches and players in the NFL in Canton. Let’s close our eyes one more time and listen to any game you choose as Madden talks his way through a busted play.

OK, OK, I will share mine: “A fumble is a fumble is a fumble."

Thanks, John, for your perfect “carries” the “booms” and all your “rah-rahs.” Here is going out with a “bang.”

Fourth and long!!!

PGA: Top Five Reasons Why Geoff Ogilvy Won at CA Championship

Alice Meikle — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 10:21:34 -0400

To excel at a pro golfer, several things must come into play.

First, you have to be a great ball striker with a great short game. But that's only half of your battle, as the game of golf is indeed a mental one.

In addition, there is so much to say about course management. In the words of Kenny Rogers “know when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em.”

So, after Tiger ran out of real estate at Doral, Ogilvy continued to put up serious stats.

In the end, after rain delay forced play to continue on Monday, the CA Championship crowned a new prince.

That prince is Geoff Ogilvy.

Ogilvy, who was born on June 11, 1977 in Adelaide, Australia, turned pro in 1988 and earned his European tour card that same year. He won his first major at the 2006 US Open after Phil Mickelson faltered, giving up a two-shot lead with three holes to go.

Geoff, who claims to be related to royalty, did everything right this week in blue-blooded fashion, forcing Tiger to come from behind.

So what exactly did Geoff do this week at Doral?

Here it is:

Led the field in Greens in Regulation
Carded only one bogey in the 72 holes
Sand saves were right on target
Chipped well
Par putts were valuable

Quarterback D Bryant: AF2 Success Story

Alice Meikle — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 02:30:59 -0500

When the Kansas City Brigade announced their final roster, there was a familiar name at quarterback.

Quarterback D Bryant left Duke University five years ago seeking greener pastures in the pro league and has earned his spot.

He landed the number two position for the Brigade, after a two-day camp invite.

Although D had a record breaking year in the AF2, where he set a season record for single-season passing yards with 4,680 and also became only the third quarterback in league history to surpass the 100-touchdown plateau by tossing 102 TDs.

He had to start over after being signed and released by the Georgia Force in the off season. But D did not skip a beat, he was convinced that if he was given a shot, he would capitalize on that opportunity.

The six feet two inches, two hundred twenty pound quarterback with the one letter first name entered the 2005 NFL draft, but was left undrafted. Described as a quarterback with the prototype size, arm strength and mobility, D started as a rookie in the AF2 with the Albany Conquest. He played for Manchester Wolves in the 2006 season and joined the South Georgia Wildcats in the 2007 season.

While playing during those three years in arena football, he made the bid to move up, but his attempts proved unsuccessful. This off-season he hired a new agent, who he believed could showcase his strengths, skills and experience to the various teams.

He actually had a number of invitations, and visited to a number of teams, but he decided to choose the Georgia Force. His hopes were however short lived, as he was released by Georgia before going to camp. Bryant never gave up, even though he acknowledged that he knew it would be an up hill battle to win a spot. So he continued his off season training and worked part time waiting for his shot.

Then finally, he got a call from Coach Kevin Porter of the Kansas City Brigade offering a two-day camp invite. Bryant worked his way up impressing the coaching staff along the way. He played well in the scrimmage against the San Jose Sabercats and finished strong in the remaining days of camp.

When I spoke to Bryant recently, he was elated for the opportunity, which has presented itself and looks forward to his future with the Brigade. Once again, patience and perseverance has helped Bryant to fight against all odds. Bryant said that football is a lot like life and he is learning to handle both on a daily basis.

AFL Training Camp: Words of Wisdom

Alice Meikle — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 02:58:01 -0500

The Arena Football League’s 2008 training camp is coming to a close. Each player, rookies and veterans alike, has showcased his talents, hoping to convince the coaching staff he’s worthy of reaching the final roster.

But through this grueling process, exactly what is it that motivates the players?

After talking to a number of the hopefuls, I noticed a common source of inspiration. Most derive real encouragement from quotes, sayings passed along by family, friends, agents, and heroes. Some sayings the players composed themselves.

Below you’ll find a selection of the players’ most powerful quotes.

Georgia Force

Antwon Savage: As a player, I am a corporation trying to sell myself and keep my stocks up.

David Crocker, DB: No fear, no excuse.

Hamin Milligan, DB: Have faith through adversity.

Brent Holmes: A set back is a set up for a comeback.

Aqua Etefia: Hungry and humble, a winning combination.

Kansas City Brigade

D. Alvin Bryant, QB/KCB: We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence therefore is not an act, but a habit.

James Robinson, WR: Proper planning prevents poor performance.

Antonio Ficklin, FB/LB: Success is achieved when preparation meets opportunity.

Colorado Crush

Jeff Hughley, WR: Live and play today like it’s your last.

Arizona Rattlers

Tolifili Liufau, DL: Winning is not everything, it’s the only thing.

New Orleans Voodoo

Umar Muhammad, LB: Getting ahead in a difficult profession requires avid faith in yourself. That is why some people with mediocre talent, but with great inner drive, go much further than people with vastly superior talent.

Delanio Taylor, OC: The grand essentials of happiness are: something to do, something to love, and something to hope for.

Ricky Hall, OL/DL: Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all.

Cleveland Gladiators

Elex Reed, DE: Pain is for a short time, fame is forever.

Gus Tyson, LB: We cannot change the inevitable, the only thing we can do is play on the one thing we have, and that is our attitude. Life is 10 percent what happens to us and 90 percent how we react to it. We are in charge of our attitudes and the life we lead.

Grand Rapids Rampage

Will Haith, DB: We do what we have to do, to be able to do what we want to do.

Mike Shack: Make it happen, every down every play.

Anthony Hines: Mark the perfect man and behold the upright for the end of that man is peace. (Biblical)

Deon Deboise, OL/DL: Teamwork is when an individual gives of himself for a cause.

Terrell Browden, FB: When my human efforts have failed, I rely on God to do the rest.

Dallas Desperados

Peter Lazare: A coward dies one thousand times, but a man dies once.

Danarius Watson, OC: Believe in yourself or no one else will.

Johnnie Harris: Leadership and hard work is the secret to success.

Josh Bush, WR: Life is a journey not a destination.

Chicago Rush

Ben, McCombs, DE: No sacrifice is too big for something you love.

Orlando Predators

Joe Johnson, OL: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Chaz Murphy, LB: Our lives are not determined by what happens to us, but how we react to what happens; not by what life brings, but the attitude we bring to life.

Columbus Destroyers

Robert Freeman: The success that great ones have earned and kept, was achieved while their opponents slept.

Prentice Purnell: Only the strong survive, because resilience is a virtue.

New York Dragons

Idris Price, LB: For the good of mankind, do something special for someone in need: give of yourself.

Farouk Adeleman, DE: When God cooks, there is no smoke.

San Jose Sabercats

Josh Richey, WR: It’s not how many times you fall, it’s the way you get up.

Utah Blaze

Alvertis Gatlin, FB: You've got to be very careful if you don't know where you're going, because you might not get there.

Devin Wyman, OL: In God all things are possible.

Reggie Doster, DB: There is good in everyone. You need to look to always see it.

Maurice Fountain, DE: The other teams could make trouble for us if they win.

Speaking to these players, I was impressed by their deep and engaging thoughts. As the week winds down, we’ll see if these words of wisdom are instrumental in success, on and off the field.

The 2008 AFL season opens on February 29th, with the Los Angeles Avengers hosting the New Orleans Voodoo.

Will The Arena Football League Cure My NFL Blues?

Alice Meikle — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 15:32:47 -0500

As a fan of the NFL, when February comes around I am found scrambling to get up to speed with the NBA season already in progress. But in the recent years, I have fallen in love with another kind of football, known by its adoring fans nationwide as the AFL or the Arena Football League.

This offense driven game is played on an arena turf field which is half the size of the NFL field. The rules and makeup of this game is very intriguing and fans are always excited to attend the games. After all they get rewarded if a ball gets into the stands.

For me it’s hard to pick just one team as a favorite, because each team brings something to the table. Teams like Philadelphia Soul which is owned by John Bonjovi, the Colorado Crush owned by John Elway, Chicago Rush owned by Mike Ditka and Dallas Desperados own by Jerry Jones have all been playing at a higher level and are famous for their quarterbacks. The New York Dragons are famous for landing defensive backs and wide receivers in the NFL, while Orlando has had former Super Bowl Championship players on their team, as well having the 2007 Defensive Lineman of the Year promoted to NFL this year. To create even more excitement to the league.

Last season the Competition and Rules Committee voted on the most significant change, which was the introduction of free substitution, the so-called "Elway Rule". Previously, AFL coaches were limited to one substitution per position per quarter. Beginning with the 2007 season, coaches will be permitted to substitute players at will.

The reasoning behind the free substitution was to improve the overall quality of football in the league by giving coaches the freedom to put their best players on the field for every play of the game, and that teams will be able to select from a wider player talent pool when building their rosters. Traditional fans and players, however, believe the rule changes are the beginning of the removal of the "Ironman" (two-way offense and defense) style of play of Arena Football that the league has actively promoted for 20 seasons, and that removing the Ironman style of play takes away a key component of what makes Arena Football a distinctive sport over other versions of football.

To simplify the rules of the game, here is a breakdown: Four offensive players must be on the line of scrimmage at the snap. One offensive player may be moving forward at the time of the snap. Three defensive players must be in a three- or four-point stance at the start of the snap. Two defenders serve as linebackers called the mac and the jack. The mac may blitz from the side of the line opposite the offensive tight end. The jack's role has changed after new rules set in place by the league in 2008. The jack cannot blitz but under new, more defense-friendly rules, the jack linebacker may roam sideline to sideline within five yards of the line of scrimmage and drop into coverage once the quarterback pump-fakes. (Before this rule, the jack could not drop back into coverage until the ball is thrown or the quarterback is no longer in the pocket and the jack had to stay within the box designated by the outside shoulders of the offensive line, the line of scrimmage, and 5 yards back from the line of scrimmage).

So this year as we sort through the new faces on each team and rules changes, we will be left with one question, who will be this season's stars. Of course since the AFL training camps are finalizing their rosters, no one, except the coaches will know who will make the final cut. Since the games are played Thursday through Monday, it’s definitely a cure for those Monday mornings blues. So get your pop corn ready to watch players do their thing in turf, because I definitely feel that the AFL is a good enough replacement for the NFL.

Former Auburn Tiger Tony McClain: AFL Rookie with a Lot of Roar

Alice Meikle — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 02:19:09 -0500

Former Auburn Tiger Tony McClain is ready to make splash on to the scene in the Arena Football League.

A product of the Arena Football development league (AF2), Tony has cultivated the skills and professionalism to play at another level.

Don’t get this twisted, but McClain is also the product a well establish football institution, Auburn University.

Famous for his agility and excellent pass rushing abilities, Tony was an easy sell to the Kansas City Brigade. McClain, who previously played for the Rio Grande Dorados, is one of four players who got promoted to the AFL. His other defensive line teammates, Tolifili Liafau and Quinton Staton, were offered contracts with the Arizona Rattlers and Orlando Predators.

McClain, 25, is a San Marcos, Texas, native, who appeared in seven games for the Dorados and made a quick impact, posting 10.5 tackles and 4.5 sacks, while adding 5.5 tackles for loss and four fumble recoveries.

His second=quarter sack on July 7 at Laredo pushed the Dorados season total to 53, setting a single-season AF2 record for sacks. The team finished with 66.

McClain (6-foot-4, 275 pounds) attended Coffeyville Community College and Auburn University. He studied physical education and minored in sociology at Auburn.

Where do you call home?

Houston, Texas.

What is the name of your hometown newspaper?

Houston Chronicle.

Your favorite hang out?

Sharpstown Mall, in Houston.

NFL Network or ESPN? ESPN Classic, ESPN News, ESPN SportsCenter—all day, ESPN.

Favorite Local Gym?

Bally's.

Favorite song of all time?

All Eyes On Me, by Tupac Shukur.

Who do you admire in the NFL at your position?

Michael Strahan.

Which coach made a lasting impression on you while growing?

[High school basketball] Coach Bennett Hatton.

If you weren't playing football, what would you be doing?

Coaching football, because I have a lot to give back to the game.

Famous Family Member?

My brother Ira McClain died in a car accident. He's the most famous, because of the memories he left behind.

Best quote you have ever heard?

“Pain is temporary, pride is forever”.

Pet Peeve?

People eating with their mouth open.

Who is the person that you admire the most?

Martin Luther King

Who is in your entourage?

Rob May, Troy Graham, Mike Togfal and Pat Horn

Alone on an island for 30 days with no food, what four things would you need to survive?

Music, a fishing pole, and pen and paper.

I am sure there is an AFL player out there that you will like to play against, if so, who is he?

Former AF2 teammate ToliFili Liafau, Arizona Rattlers.

Kickboxing or yoga?

Kickboxing.

What would be the title of a book that tells your life story?

Perseverance.

What did you do in the off season?

Teaching high school.

Last Movie You Saw? American Gangster

What is your biggest challenge as a defensive end?

Staying low.

Pregame routine?

Praying and listening to Tupac’s greatest hits on my iPod.

Who is your biggest fan?

Tatum Faith McClain, my two-year-old daughter.

Farouk Adelekan: This Rookie Is A Contender

Alice Meikle — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 04:27:32 -0500

Farouk Adelekan (6-2, 275, University of Houston), who recently completed his second AF2 season with Tennessee, was a major force on the Vipers’ defense.

The former University of Houston standout tormented the Green Bay Blizzard in his best game last season, with five total tackles (all solo), three tackles for a loss, three sacks for 23 yards, and three forced fumbles.

Adelekan also recovered two of the three fumbles he forced, and had five quarterback hurries in that same game.

His style of play is aggressive and punishing.

The Chicago native is a product of Nigerian parents, and moved back to Lagos, Nigeria after birth until the age of seven. Adelekan holds a baccalaureate degree in Psychology, and is a rather blunt and outspoken guy.

Farouk has signed with the New York Dragons, and says while he misses Chicago’s rich culture and his many friends, he understands that he has to take care of business in New York.

Let see if I can get into the head of this Psychology major.

Do you have a nickname?

No, but the name “Farouk” means king.

Where have you traveled to other than within the United States?

Lagos, Nigeria.

Born in United States?

Yes.

Where were you raised?

Raised in Lagos, Nigeria and Chicago, Illinois.

Where do you call home?

Chicago.

What is the name of your hometown newspaper?

Chicago Tribune.

Your favorite hometown hang-out?

Bi-Level Club in Chicago.

Where did you go to high school?

Thornton Fraction North High School.

CSI, NYPD Blue, or ESPN SportsCenter?

ESPN, all day all the time.

Tell me about living in Chicago?

I love the culture and people in the Chicago community. I have close ties with the Nigerian community there.

What do you for fun outside of football?

I love music and enjoy listening to a variety of music in my spare time, especially rap and hip hop.

Which NFL defensive end do you admire?

Dwight Freeney.

Which coach made lasting impression on you while growing up?

Coach Lemon, strength and conditioning coach.

Favorite Quote?

“The first and best victory is to conquer self.”

Proudest Achievement?

Earning my degree.

Are you always being accused of psycho-analyzing people?

I've been accused of playing Dr. Phil once or twice. But I'm innocent!

Pet Peeve?

Needy people.

Who is the rock in your life?

My older brother Tunde and mom Sherifat are key to my success.

Who is in your entourage?

Rich Childress, Lee Robinson, Victor Malone, and Jackie Battle.

What would you like fans to know about you?

Fans should not confuse my punishing demeanor on the field to anything off the field.

I am sure there is an AFL player out there that you will like to play against, if so who is he?

I want to take on the entire Chicago, Columbus and San Jose teams.

Have you ever done kickboxing or yoga?

Kickboxing.

Do you trash talk?

I speak with my actions on the field.

Who is the best trash talker you ever heard?

[Boxer] Roy Jones, Jr.

Have you ever been pancaked?

I've eaten a few pancakes on and off the field.

Jersey Number?

No. 93

Look for Farouk to take New York by storm—he is definitely a contender.

AFL Rookies: Josh Richey Is on a Mission in 2008

Alice Meikle — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 17:11:40 -0500

Northeastern State University alumni wide receiver Joshua “Josh” Richey was a thorn in the side of any defensive back playing in the AF2 last season.

Josh grabbed 148 catches for 1968 yards and 44 touchdowns, averaging 122.4 receiving yards per game. This 6’3", 195 gamer was the most sought-after wide receiver prospect from the AF2 league during the AFL off-season.

A native of Oklahoma, Josh is said to be a leader on and off the field. He is considered to be a threat in the red zone and overall a very exciting player. During his season with the Everett Hawks, Josh earned several league honors and actually broke team records in receptions, total yards and touch downs.

Josh has earned respect from his teammates and even opponents league-wide. This off season, he was offered a contract with the Arena Bowl Champions San Jose Sabercats. After a successful mini-camp with the Sabercats, Josh is looking forward to the scrimmages most of all.

He was just named by the AFL Writers as a “Rookie to Watch in 2008." When I caught up with “Cha-Chee” as he is affectionately called, Josh was upbeat and excited and was minutes away from his very first meeting for the 2008 AFL Season with the Sabercats.

Where did you get that nickname from? Josh said that he got his nickname from neighborhood friend named Jesus about 15 years ago. He said that Jesus told him that he “Josh” is Cha-Chee in Spanish. The name has stuck ever since.

How did you like living and playing in Everett, Washington? He said living in Washington was quite different. Josh enjoyed the diverse culture and the warmth of the people.

Where do you call home? El Reno, OK

What is the name of your hometown newspaper? El Reno Tribune

Your favorite hangout spot: The Lot is Josh’s favorite. This is where he goes to hang out with the older guys in his community. He said that he enjoys playing dominoes and talking to these “old school cats” who are always trying to instill some knowledge.

Where did you go to high school? El Reno High School

What did you do this off season? This off season, Josh traveled to several AFL cities for workouts and meets and greets. He was also the wide receiver coach for his former high school team. Too bad Josh could not clone the wide receivers at El Reno High School to possess his talent and abilities. They finished 4-6, but Josh insisted that they had a better season this year.

CSI Miami or ESPN Sports Center? Both

Junior college teammates who have made it to the NFL? Antonio Smith, Arizona Cardinals and Romby Bryant, NFL Free Agent

What do you for fun outside of football? Josh enjoys a good game of pick-up basketball, says that he also loves to play dominoes. He said that he once beat the neighborhood domino kingpin.

Which NFL wide receiver do you admire? Marvin Harrison and Michael Irvin

Which coach made lasting impression on you while growing up? Josh said that it took a village of coaches to groom him for this stage in his life. Pap Warner, Coach Lloyd Leeds, Jr. High Coach Rich Little, high school coach Rocky Carter, and Everett Hawk’s coaches Cedric Walker and Steve Papin.

Favorite Quote Ever Heard? "I have a dream" speech by Martin Luther King

Pet Peeve? Women who smoke

Who is the rock in your life? Josh says that his Mother is his strength.

Who is in your Entourage? Shannon Carter, my brother Donyell Hunter, Deedee Carter, D’Angelo Hayes, Desire Hayes, Desie Hayes, Anthony Evans, Chris Johnson and Edward Prim

What would you like fans to know about you? Josh is looking forward to entertain the fans in San Jose and hopes that the excitement he will bring to the field will be worth seeing.

Which AFL player would you like to play against? Chris Royal, Philadelphia Soul

Have you ever tried yoga? Yes

Do you trash talk? Josh says that he does not really like trash talking, but if his opponent starts yapping...it’s on.

What special skills do you have? Josh is a master of the “Po-Co” route. That’s post or corner.

This San Jose Rookie is enjoying life in California. He likes playing football and hopes to play on Sundays in the other league. It’s a dream that will happen with hard work.

Inside The Lines with Rookie Elex Reed of the Cleveland Gladiators

Alice Meikle — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 02:05:09 -0500

Elex Reed (6-5, 295, Mary Hardin-Baylor) earned several team and league honors/awards for the 2007 AF2 regular and postseason.

Elex received the coveted 2007 AF2 Defensive Lineman Of The Year, and was a huge part of his team's success this season. In one of his career high games, Reed collected 2.5 tackles, including one tackle for a loss, blocked two extra point attempts, and had an interception, which he returned for 18 yards.

In the first round of the AF2 playoffs, Reed set a new AF2 playoff game record by sacking the quarterback 3.5 times against Arkansas. He also forced two fumbles and recovered another during the first playoff game in franchise history.

During the regular season, in Week 3, Reed set the AF2 record for most sacks in a single game, bringing down the Texas Copperheads' quarterback six times. In 2007, his first AF2 season, Reed led the league in tackles for loss during the regular season with 25, and finished second in the league in sacks with 17.5.

During the AFL Free Agency period, Elex was interviewed and evaluated by about ten AFL teams and in a difficult decision, chose the Cleveland Gladiators. Elex recently moved to his new home in Cleveland, and will be a rookie to watch during the 2008 season.

As usual, I got into his head to find out the things that makes him tick. Here goes…

What is the name of your hometown?

Mexia, Texas

What is the name of your hometown newspaper?

Mexia Daily News

Your favorite hometown hang-out?

The Lake, where I go fishing.

NFL Network or ESPN?

ESPN.

Hometown Gym?

Moe's Gym.

Something most people do not know about you? I have won several medals as a amateur boxer and my brother Max is training for a national title fight and is thinking about the competing in the Olympics.

Favorite song?

Dreaming by Young Jeezy.

Who do you admire in the NFL at your position?

Michael Strahan of the New York Giants.

Which coach made a lasting impression on you as a young player?

[High School] Coach Clay Ard.

Favorite Quote Ever Heard? Courage under pressure.

Pet Peeve?

Pretentious people.

Who do you admire?

My mom, Clarissa Reed.

Who is in your Entourage?

Terrance Martin (Cleveland Gladiators), cousin Cody Batterall and brother Max.

Alone on an island for 30 days with no food, what three things would you need to have?

Good book, fishing pole, and some bait.

What were you doing last year this time?

Attending school. [Elex will graduate this fall with his MBA.]

I am sure there is an AFL player out there that you will love to play against, if so, who is he?

[Former Bossier City Battle Wings teammate] Jason Schule of the Tampa Bay Storm

Boxing or yoga? Yoga.

Most memorable moment in the off season?

Visiting with the various AFL Teams, meeting the coaches, front office staff and interacting with other players.

Where is the Defensive Player of the Year Trophy you won last season in the AF2?

Safely packed away in storage. I'll bring it out after the final roster cuts are made, to remind myself of what brought me to this point.

Turf or grass?

Grass.

Your interpretation pancake?

Being "laid out" by the Offensive Lineman.

Your one signature move?

My quick slide

Fourth of July or Valentine Day?

Valentine's Day.

Look for this Gladiator on a television screen near you come March 2008.

AFL Rookies to Watch: Maurice Fountain, Utah Blaze

Alice Meikle — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 16:52:18 -0500

Gregory Maurice Fountain is the lone player from his Manchester Wolves team to be promoted to the AFL this season. The Clemson alumnus is an aggressive pass rusher who is said to be brutal on the quarterback.

“Moe,” as he is affectionately called by his teammates and friends racked up 13 sacks this past season and was one of the most sought-after defensive ends during the AFL free agency period.

Fountain earned several team and league honors and has his sight set on the Utah Blaze where he will compete for a roster spot. He will have great veteran leadership on the defensive line from players like Dwayne Missouri and EJ Burt.

When I caught up with Moe, he was on the way to the gym to get in his last off-season workout before leaving for camp in Salt Lake City with the Blaze.

Here is a peek into this rookie’s soul:

Where do you call home? Camden, South Carolina

What is the name of your hometown newspaper? Camden Chronicle

Favorite hometown hang out: Club Rio’s famous for their house music

NFL Network or ESPN: ESPN, Sports Center

Favorite local gym: La Fitness, Atlanta Georgia

Favorite artist and CD: Jay-Z’s Blueprint

What is your pre-game routine? Listening to music and visualization of the game plan based on film, stretching and jogging; praying before game with thoughts of his grandma and aunt.

Who do you admire in the NFL at your position? Shawn Merriman, Demarcus Ware and Julius Peppers

Which coach has made a lasting impression on you? Defensive Line Coach Thielen Smith, Clemson University

Which NFL Team do you follow? Philadelphia Eagles

Pet peeve: Being ignored

Fourth of July or Valentine’s Day: Valentine’s Day

Turf or grass: Grass

Who's in your entourage? Leroy Hill (Seattle Seahawks), Justin Miller (New York Jets), Kyle Browning, Travis Pugh (Clemson teammate), Vonnie Holiday (Miami Dolphins/Clemson teammate), Charlie Miller, Gerald McCloud, Vontrell Jamison (former Dallas Cowboys/Clemson teammate), Brian Mance (Philadelphia Soul/Clemson teammate), JJ McKelvy (Utah Blaze/Clemson teammate), and Kelvin Morris (Utah Blaze/Clemson teammate).

Alone on an island for 30 days with no food, what three things would you need to have? A machete for protection and hunting, camouflage for hunting, canoe with paddles to go sailing and to search for water.

AFL player you'd like to play against: Beau Elliot of the Chicago Rush.

Have you ever tried yoga? No, but I'd like to.

Who is your toughest critic? Myself.

Do you trash talk? Yes, but keeps it within the line of scrimmage, no personal attacks.

What is a “pancake”? Offensive lineman engaging with a defender and drive him into the ground.

What are the three most important things in your life? Jesus, family/friends and self motivation

Words to live by: Every day you choose to slack off, your opponent gets better.

Maurice and the Utah Blaze start training camp on Wednesday, February 5, 2008.

Chad Ruffin: Mild-Mannered Punisher and Chicago Rush Rookie

Alice Meikle — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 01:45:51 -0500

Nose Guard Chad Ruffin joined the Tulsa Talons for the 2006 season as a rookie from Southern Mississippi University. While attending Southern Miss., he was named one of the strongest players on the team. He earned the team’s Most Improved Defensive Player honors in the spring of 2002 and 2004, and was named Second-Team All-Conference USA as a Golden Eagle, serving as a captain during his senior year.

In 2005 Ruffin spent time with the New Orleans Saints at Rookie Camp. (He graduated from Edna Karr Magnet High School in New Orleans, where he participated not only in football but also track and field.) And in 2007 Ruffin played with the Arena Cup Champions—the Tulsa Talons—of the AF2, recording 17.5 tackles, 8.0 TFLs, 5 sacks, 1 PBU, 4 QBHs, and 2 FF over 13 games.

Famous for his bull rushing skills, Chad has punished every quarterback he’s ever faced. After meeting this mild-mannered giant, I was taken aback as we spoke of his passion for football and of his determination to be the best at his position.

When we sat down to talk, he was adamant about the substance of this piece. So here goes.

What was his experience playing in the 2007 Arena Cup Championship?

The entire 2007 season was one he will remember for a long time. He said that the entire team came together for a common good…winning.

Has he ever tried yoga?

Chad takes yoga twice a week.

Which movies has he seen lately?

He just saw Alvin and the Chipmunks with his daughter before he left for camp.

Who does he most admire?

Chad says he is a big fan of his mother and his wife.

Who is in his entourage?

Mike Shack (Tulsa Talons/Grand Rapids Rampage), Terrence Ford (So. Miss.), Jamar Ransom (Tulsa Talons/Chicago Rush), Terrell Browden (So. Miss./Grand Rapids Rampage), Roderick Green (Tulsa Talons), and Donavan Morgan (Tulsa Talons/Chicago Rush).

If he were alone on an island for 30 days with no food, what three things would he need in order to survive?

A football, a grassy field, and an opponent.

What is his hometown?

New Orleans.

What is his favorite hang out at home?

Chuck E. Cheese, with daughter.

NFL Network or ESPN?

ESPN.

Who is his biggest fan?

His daughter, Samya.

Who would he most like to play against in the AFL?

He would love to play against the Grand Rapid Rampage—his best friends Browden and Shack are on that team. And most of all, he would love to silence the league’s biggest trash talker (Shack).

Which coach made the biggest impression on him while growing up?

High school coach Frank Wilson.

What is his favorite quote?

"We must learn to live as brothers or perish together as fools."

What is his pet peeve?

Loud-mouth offensive linemen.

What is his favorite AF2 moment?

A Tackle For Loss on a third down, where it stops the clock with seconds to go, and then being able to come up with a win. (By the way, he did that, the Tackle For Loss. And his team did come up with a win.)

What NFL player does he admire most?

Warren Sap.

What is his favorite vacation spot?

Mexico.

What is his favorite number?

No. 99, that’s his jersey number.

What CD has he recently loaded on his MP3?

Watch My Shoes by Trill Sam.

Chad Ruffin, who is currently in camp with the Chicago Rush, is looking forward to play in a city near you.

Rookie Jamar Ransom Moves up to the AFL

Alice Meikle — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 15:38:38 -0500

Oklahoma State University alum Jamar Ransom is a hard-hitting linebacker famous for punishing his opponents sideline to sideline.

Ransom spent the 2007 season with the Tulsa Talons of Arena Football 2, winning the Arena Cup Championship, and he was one of six players to make their way up to the AFL.

After speaking with Jamar, I discovered that he his no walk-in-the-park football player. He spoke in depth about what he stood for.

Where does he call home?

El Paso, Texas

What is the name of his hometown newspaper?

El Paso Times

What is his favorite hometown hang out?

Carmike Cinemas

NFL Network or ESPN?

ESPN–NFL Prime Time

Where does he keep in shape?

Sky Fitness & Wellness

What is his favorite CD?

Lil Wayne's The Leak

What is his favorite television show?

CSI Miami

Which coach made an impression on him while growing?

All Pop Warner Coaches of the NE Raiders, El Paso, Texas

Who is in his corner?

The entire Ransom clan, along with his agent.

Which song would tell his story best?

50 Cent's Hustler’s Ambition; Jamar says this song speaks to the rags to riches story.

Which linebacker does he most admire, and what would he like to ask to him?

Jamar says he keeps his eye on Ray. He’d like to ask Lewis about what helps him to shine, even in his darkest hour. Jamar says Lewis is a very compelling and inspiring player.

What is his favorite quote?

“I can do all things through God.”

What is his pet peeve?

Quitting

Who does he most admire and why?

Jamar admires his mother and father (who grew up in Oakland, CA) for their resilience.

Who is in his entourage?

All Q-Dogs, Chad Ruffin, Jermaine Hope, Jermaine Landrum, Joe Johnson and childhood friends Ryan Thornton and Daniel Haywood.

If he were alone on an island for 30 days with no food, what three things would he need in order to survive?

His Bible, a family picture, and a lighter to start a fire.

Who in the AFL would you most like to play against?

Jeff Hughley of the Colorado Crush because he has the ability to really open up the game and he is a challenger on special team. Also Mike Shack of the Grand Rapids Rampage (who is a big trash talker), Steve Watson of the San Jose Sabercats, and Sonnie Cumbie of the LA Avengers.

Has he ever tried yoga?

Yes…he practices yoga twice a week.

Who has made the biggest impression on you?

The coaching staff at Andress High School in El Paso, Texas.

Orlando Predators: Rookie Joe Johnson

Alice Meikle — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 16:57:00 -0500

Orlando Predators rookie, center Joe Johnson stands at 6 feet 5 inches and weighs in at 320 pounds. He is an intimidating force to be reckoned with on the offensive line. Joe, who spent time in NFLE and the CFL, is set to make his mark on the Arena League.

Another Tulsa Talon alumni from the 2007 Arena Cup Championship; I spoke with this high-energy player. He was relaxing at home, but come Saturday, he leaves for camp with his new team. Joe said that he is trying to win over new fans in the AFL, and here's what Joe shared with me:

Where do you call home? Houston, Texas

Name of your hometown newspaper? Houston Chronicle

Your favorite hang-out spot in Houston: Pool hall "Slick Willie's"

NFL Network or ESPN: ESPN

Your local gym: 24-Hour Fitness

Favorite CD: “Made” by Scarface

Who do you admire in the NFL at your position and what question would you like for that player to answer for you? Orlando Pace and Kevin Malloy. He would like to know what gave these players longevity to compete at their level.

Which coach made an impression on you growing up? North Shore High School OL Coach Brizey

Favorite Quote: “If you give a man a fish, he will eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, he eats for life”.

Pet Peeve: Defensive linemen who complain about holding calls

Who do you admire? Joe admires his mom, Rhonda Johnson.

Who's in your entourage? Brother Chris Johnson, Ray Brady, and Tracy Cain

Alone on an island for 30 days with no food, what three things would you need? Swiss Army Knife, his Zoom media player, and the Orlando Predator playbook

Which AFL player do you look forward to playing against? Colston Weatherington

Have you ever tried yoga? Yes

Last Movie Seen: I am Legend

Have you ever gone out to eat by yourself: Yes

Do you trash talk? Yes, when there is need. His motto: “Don’t start nothing, there will be nothing."

Who is the best trash talker? Michael Shack

Family: Married to Cynthia and daughter Katelynn

Look for Joe as the Orlando Predators roll into to your town.