Riding the Pine

A new sport? Politics

2012-01-19T21:16:00.001-08:00

By definition it is not a sport, but Politics, especially this year, has the excitement and similar elements of great sporting event

First: The blows. Like a great boxing match, this year's GOP nomination has been like watching jab after jab with an occasional uppercut. At the beginning Romney was dishing out the blows. Now Gingrich is landing some dandies.

Second: The Excitement. I love watching box scores and for some reason watching poll numbers has the same affect on me. It tugs at your heart but you enjoy watching inning after inning.

Third: It breaks your heart. Rarely does your team win. In watching this battle for the Republican nomination my heart is pulling for Mitt Romney. Sure it is probably partly because he is a mormon and I think that he would do a great job. As a sports fan you always think your team is going to win but never want to admit it for fear of the whiplash that comes from investing too much. Like sports, I've probably invested too much into this.

Fourth: Great names. When you can call a guy by their first name then you have solidified all-star status. Greats such as "Babe" "Lebron" "Kobe" "Magic" "Dr. J" "Cal" needed no further introduction. "Mitt" and "Newt" aren't exactly magical names you would name your next child, but they are fun to say and recognition is immediate.

Fifth: Timing. Baseball is known for "October baseball", the bowl games are on New Years, the Super Bowl (until recently) was always the final week of January. You could mark it on the calendar. It is surprising that some of these events aren't marked as holidays on the calendar. The election is the same way. November means election just as Reggie Jackson means October.

Now, it is still early and the fun is just beginning but amidst all of these things there is one distinct difference that separates sports from politics. Sports, when the whistle blows or the last pitch is thrown, don't matter. Sure they may boost the ego and score you some in-law bragging rights but in the end, life goes on. There will be another game. Excitement will build and once again hopes will raise to cheer your team on. Winning though doesn't change someone's life. It creates great memories but reality is not altered. Politics on the other hand, matter. Power in a man's hand can affect the lives of a nation. Winning does matter. And for this reason not only am I cheering for my team but that we will have a leader who is one who will make decisions and lead in a way that will influence my family for good.

Heaven Intervention

2012-01-08T22:20:00.000-08:00

Are there sports in heaven?

I don't know, but I sure hope so and something happened today that leads me to believe that in the event that there is, I know somebody who is cheering and celebrating!

My Grandma Esplin was a big Denver Bronco's fan. I remember going over to her house on Sunday evenings and she would be watching the game. She especially liked John Elway. I always enjoyed those visits but never became a Broncos fan.

In memory of Grandma I turned on to watch her team play the final quarter of the playoffs game tonight between her Broncos and the Steelers. Feeling nostalgic I deep down was cheering for the Broncos as proxy for my Grandma. When the Broncos won in dramatic fashion behind the play of Tim Tebow I couldn't help but think that there was divine intervention and that surely Grandma was watching her beloved Broncos.

It was as if I was with Grandma in her living room cheering for her team.

Best Baseball Game - Game 6 Rangers v. Cardinals - October 27, 2011

2011-10-27T21:56:00.000-07:00

I know that I am in the emotion of the moment but I dare say that tonight I just watched the best baseball game I have ever seen! It had every bit of drama you could imagine. The following plays in the game make this a convincing argument:

1) Blunders. Despite 5 blunders in the game, their was brilliance with the glove. The throw by Napoli to get Holliday out at third was game changing.

2) Heroics. The Rangers struck first going up 3 going into the bottom of the 7th. It seemed as though Texas was destined for their first world series title in the history of the franchise. This changed as Pujois doubled in the ninth (quite possibly his final atbat as a Cardinal). Even at this the Rangers were able to get two outs and were down to their final strike when hometown hero Freese triples to tie the game (this erased a blunder he made earlier). There is nothing like the hometown kid coming up clutch.

Going into extras the Rangers seemed to have a little life left as Hamilton homered to put the Rangers up 2 once again. This seemed fitting with all that Hamilton has been through to be the hero (this of course was my desired outcome).

Once again the Cards rallied in the bottom of the 10th with a single by Berkman (who interestingly enough almost ended up with the Rangers earlier in the season) to tie the game. Oh, and by the way, there were two outs and two strikes on Berkman. Unbelievable.

3) After the Rangers seemed to have run out of gas and went down quickly in the 11th, the Cardinals came back and capped off this historic night with a walkoff homerun by the hometown hero once again - David Freese. Can anybody say "The Natural"?

I must admit that I probably was glued to the tv tonight. But what made it worth it was to have Parker and Melissa watching it together for the last few innings. True, Parker was all over the place and would get easily distracted but nonetheless this fact is what for me made this the best baseball game ever (Brock was soundly sleeping in the bull"pen").

History made

2011-10-22T22:22:00.000-07:00

Rarely do you witness historic moments in the moment.

Fortunately I had one of those moments tonight.

For the third time in the history of baseball a player hit three home runs in a game during the world series. Albert Pujos became that player.

Though not able to watch the full game, fortunately I turned the tv on at the right moment. Having witnessed history I wanted Parker to have a taste of it. I brought him out of bed to see the interview with Pujos after the game.

History made.

Running

2011-10-11T20:47:00.000-07:00

I thought I swore off running. I had convinced myself that I had reached the pinnacle of running when I ran the St. George Marathon in 1999. After all I had won some gold medals in the Utah Summer Games and ran a few years of Cross Country at Cedar High School. I had run my fair share of 5 and 10K's and had tastedevery variation of gatorade that there was. With such a resume I was content to live the lazy life.

Then I married a runner. Somehow I thought that by marrying a sprinter that surely this wouldn't trickle into long distance running.

Then the runner I married had a baby. Then she had another baby.

As part of running off her non-existent "baby fat" she convinced me to run with her. She concluded that this would be a good way to do something "together". I fell for it and we signed up for the Cedar City Half Marathon. Running was once again staring me in the face.

The married wife trained diligently and patiently waited for me to catch up. I never did but nonetheless ran the Cedar City Half Marathon (mostly a pride thing. I would later pay for that pride).

Having now ran "my last run?!!?" I am haunted by what I see when I look out my window. I see a rising generation going out for a morning run! The very thing I swore I would never do.

I guessI shouldn't be surprised. After all I did marry a runner!

*Note: Melissa is running a marathon this weekend. Who knows what is next?

It will break your heart

2011-09-28T21:31:00.000-07:00

Baseball is a love affair. And when you involve the heart, it is bound to get broken.

The heart is broken.

The heart was hanging on as I witnessed the Boston collapse. The Red Sox went from being a game up in the AL East to fighting for their Wild Card lives. Tonight the heart was on life support as the Red Sox needed a win and the Yankees needed to beat the Rays. (Yes, I was cheering for the Yankees, also hard on the heart!)

The heart seemed like it was in good condition as the Yankees led the Rays by 7 going into the bottom of the 8th. The Red Sox, waiting through a rain delay, were up 3 to 2 in the 7th.

Then came the heart attack.

Within a few minutes I witnessed the Rays tie it up in the 9th at 7 with the Yankees and a few minutes later I thought I would go into cardiac arrest as I saw Paplebon give up two runs after he was down to his final strike to win the ball game. Shortly after the Red Sox lost I was hoping for a heart donor in the form of a Yankees win. Minutes later I lost hope as the Rays won in extra innings on a home run by Longoria.

You couldn't have scripted the heart break any worse than what I witnessed. My heart went from healthy to completely ripped out of my chest. This can't be healthy.

But thanks to a good wife, I was reminded of where my heart really should be anyway. After expressing my frustration to her (part of my therapy!) I asked her, "So what am I going to do this October?" Her response was perfect, "Maybe spend the time with your family?"

Sure go right for the heart.

Then again, that is where my heart should be anyway!

RISE and SHOUT!

2011-09-25T00:13:00.000-07:00

A historic moment has transpired.

Where? Lavell Edwards Stadium

When? September 23, 2011

Who? Me and my son Parker, and 50,000 plus fans.

In true football fashion, here is the play by play

PREGAME:

2:00 PM - Parker can't sleep. Too excited for the game. Parker wins and doesn't get a nap.

2:11 PM - Dad is trying to teach his seminaryclass. Tells them that he would rather be at the football game.

3:02 PM - Dad is in his cougar gear.

3:13 PM - Leave Castle Dale and headedfor Lavell Edwards Stadium in Provo, UT

3:16 PM - Parker gives in to a pre-game nap

5:07 PM - Parker wakes up. Not quite sure where we are headed and where Brock and mom went. Has to listen to the pre-game show on the radio with dad

5:32 PM - Sister in Law Janice delivers the tickets and gives directions to the game.

6:00 PM - Kickoff. Still outside thestadium. Had to walk a ways to the game. Parking near the Provo temple. Hoping this will be a good omen or perhaps an easy way to find the car on our way out of the stadium

6:05 PM - Game underway and most likely UCF is driving and perhaps getting the games first points. We start to hear the band. Parker says, "Where is the parade?" We keep walking to the gate thinking that Parker is going to see aparade at the football game.

6:11 PM - Go through security.They search through Parker's batman back pack and find apples. "Either put them somewhere else or toss them." I play the Parker card. Can't I just bring them for him? The seas part and we are in the game with our apples.

6:15 PM - Finally get to our seats. Portal NN, section 132, row 6, seats 16 and 17. Have to pass seated cougar fans.

6:17 PM - Man next to us says, "How long is he going to last? When we brought our kids they wouldbe done by halftime."

6:17 PM - Not thinking kind thingsabout the man next to us. Don't underestimate these Cougar fans.

6:22 PM - First request for foodmade, "I'mhungary"

6:23 PM - Dad realizes that money is in his wallet, in the car. Need for an audible.

6:30 PM - BYU scores, perfect timing and a reason for Parker to sing the "Cougar song". BYU 3 UCF 3

6:40 PM - Audible works as Parker is playing with the Ipod. Oh and by the way, UCF scored. BYU 3 UCF 10

6:51 PM - Requests for food more insistent. Another audible called. Call the Olsens for some money.

7:17 PM - Meet up with Olsens, make money exchange. Stand in line. Parker wants a "Cougar dog".

7:25 PM - Order "Cougar Dog". "Cougar dogs" allgone but making more. Willing to wait this one out.

7:30 PM- Watch disgruntled fans at the news that "cougar dogs" are not ready. Parker is patiently waiting on the counter.

7:44 PM - "Cougar dog" safely in the paws of Parker, head back to the seats.

7:50 PM - Arrive back at the seats and begin eating.

7:58 PM - Hands stained with ketchup and mustard being licked off as BYU ties it up. Parker rises and shouts the "cougar song". BYU 10 UCF 10

8:09 PM - Previous excitement gone asUCF scores. Nachos more enjoyable than Cougar dog. Fan above us impressed if Parker throws downall of the food. BYU 10 UCF 17

8:12 PM - Another excuse for "cougar song" as BYU returns kickoff for touchdown! Now we are really rolling.

8:14 - Parker, "I'm thirsty". Wouldn't you know it? Water is in the car! "Just keep eating the nachos kid". Silently praying that there are more "cougar songs" to keep my boys thirst quenched.

8:22 - Prayer answered. BYU punches one in. "Cougar song" quenches the thirst. BYU 24 UCF 17

8:53 - Cougars holding on forthe victory. After some standing on dad's lap and playing some Ipod, Parker also was holding on for a victory.

9:14 - Victory is ours. Cougs win. Parker's first football game. BYU 24 UCF 17

POSTGAME:

9:30 PM - Victory lap begins as we go down to the Cougar in front of the stadium.

9:32 PM - Sit on the Cougar.

9:35 PM - Head back towards car.

9:38 PM - Get distracted by wanting to see the field up close.

9:40 PM - See the field up close. Headback to the car.

9:51 PM - Are we lost? Pull over on sidewalk and say a prayer.

9:54 PM - Temple in sight, mountains in front of me. Prayer answered.

9:59 PM - Change Parker into football pajamas

10:04 PM - Give Parker high five on our first victory. Head home while listening to the postgame.

10:09 PM - Parker is out. Great game buddy!

GRID PICKS

2011-08-19T21:31:00.000-07:00

The first Saturday in October 1994 provided a historic moment in my life. With the help of my best friend Mark Corry we won the Deseret News Grid Picks. The headline read:

"Cedar City Man Stands Alone In Picking Em" All Correctly (Deseret News, Oct 4, 1994)

The article continued:

"Devin Esplin of Cedar City was the only entry out of 1,278 recieved to predict all 12 games correctly"

With the winning came the spoils. We split $100, a dominos pizza and a sweet Grid Picks T-Shirt that provided bragging rights. As 13 year old kids we were on cloud nine and were ready for a spot on ESPN as an expert analyst.

17 years later I continue to pursue excellence once again. In that span I have seen Mark win a runner up T-Shirt (combined efforts of course) and my brother Ryan also claiming a runner up t-shirt. With high school games starting today I couldn't help but think of my glory days winning with my buddy Mark Corry. And what did I do? I called him, hoping that it would provide some good luck to claim the prize of Grid Picks champion once again!

Keep your eye on the papers!

Is this heaven?

2011-08-19T21:11:00.001-07:00

There are some sacred places and there are some hallowed places. But there is only one heaven. Iowa? Sorry Kevin Kostner, its not the cornfields of Iowa.

Heaven is Cooperstown. That is of course if you are a baseball fanatic andyou don't mind getting struck by lightning by making such comparisons.

I can make such a claim because I went there.

Like all good things, and heaven is one of them, reaching sucha place isn't always bliss. After taking the trolly downtown to the gates ofCooperstown and entering the hall, a tired Parker unleashed not so angelic chaos in the hall of fame. Of course I don't blame the kid. He is three years old andnot accustomed to "my heaven". After a few screaming fits and a warning from security along with a baseball card, Parker quickly fell asleep.

And that is when heaven arrived. Melissa was gracious to take Brock and allow me to roam the hall. I pushed Parker and walked aroundlike a kid in a candy store.

After a few hours of walking in the clouds and having bought our souveniers (it is nice to have evidence that you have been to heaven) we left this quaint heavenly town and were back on the road.

And so I ask again, as did Ray Kinsella's dad did in Field of Dreams, "Is this heaven?"

And withouthesitation I would respond, "Yes, yes it is." And yes that means even when things aren't so heavenly. For that is the irony of heaven. What I thought would make this such a heavenly place wasn't what made it so. It was thosebrief moments of being with my family, watching Parker sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" in the little theatre and having him point at Babe Ruth and say "Baby Ruth". It was seeing him hold his baseball card in hand as he had his own version of "field of dreams". It was seeing how my wife knew me and cared for me enough to allow me to be a kid again.

This is heaven, and I don't think that lightning will strike! (unless of course we are talking about the Natural!)

A Hockey Fan Is Born

2011-06-15T20:54:00.000-07:00

It didn't happen when I played "Blades of Steel" on the old school Nintendo.

It didn't happen when the FOX network tried to spice the game up with a "glowing" puck.

It almost happened watching the US Team play hockey in the Salt Lake 2002 Olympics.

But tonight it happened.

After watching the Boston Bruins win game 7 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs it happened.

I am a Hockey Fan.

Why the birth of a Hockey fan? Here are a few reasons.

1) The Stanley Cup Trophy is huge and historic. By far the best looking trophy in major league sports.

2) The beards. Makes it the manliest sport out there. It is as if you are watching lumberjacks on ice.

3) It's intense. There doesn't seem to be a dull moment. Soccer is a good comparison when it comes to the idea of the game. Where it differs is the pace. Hockey by far takes the cake on this one.

4) It's like watching WWF at times but it is real.

5) It's fun when you have to get a dictionary and an atlas out when you read the back of the jerseys.

Seriously though. I'm a fan. I can't explain it. My brother Ryan has tried for the past few years to get me on board but tonight it clicked. The best way to describe is that feeling of being anxious when you want to watch the game and "be there" for the moment. It's the feeling that you want a certain team to win. These feelings come only when you are a fan. And I guess that makes me a fan.

Shoeless Parker

2011-05-30T20:31:00.000-07:00

The legend of Shoeless Joe began when he would take off his shoes in the outfield because his shoes were not comfortable. The nickname "shoeless" stuck with him forever.

Parker may have just began his very own legacy. While playing baseball out back I decided it was time to teach Parker to run the bases. Looking around me I found paver stones to mark as bases. Parker quickly got the hang of it and would run over the pavers with his bare feet. On occasion he would scrape himself on the pavers. One time in particular it caused "blood" to which he began to cry "my blood owwee". Not wanting to stop playing baseball he told me to just "put a sock on it". We went inside, had a bath, put some socks on of his choice (blue socks), and the legend of shoeless Parker has begun as he is spreading his tale to all who will listen (mom was the first of course as he recounted the story over the phone to her).

Let's hope that Shoeless Parker is as good a ballplayer as Shoeless Joe. We've got the base-running down so that is a step in the right direction!

How to watch a baseball game

2011-05-29T17:56:00.000-07:00

In the "beginning" of baseball, early in the 1920's, fans would crowd around a giant scoreboard in a public square and watch a scoreboard to catch up on their team. It was updated regularly by someone who was listening to the radio. Fans would stand outside for hours following the game like this cheering for their team.

Now there are many ways to watch a game. On Sunday you can catch the game of the week on ESPN, on Saturday you watch an afternoon game on FOX and if you buy the right package, you can watch every single game in the big leagues (DVR needed of course). In case you miss the games, catch the highlights 24-7 on ESPNews. For the more traditional fan, listen to any game on line (for a price of course) and imagine the game unfold before your imagination. Of course there is always the option to go to the gamewith 30 options a night in the big cities.

My preference of course is to be at the ballpark. There is just something magical about it. The smells and the soundsare unbeatable andcannot be passed through modern technology. Living in rural Utah of course prevents me from such experiences. I would resort to the television option but we have ditched the dish, so it comes down to watching the game online. No sound, just watching the little dots and runners go around the bases followed by their name. I get the stats and everything. I know it doesn't sound appealing, but in a way it keeps me on the edge of my seat. The not knowing what is happening is exciting and if I have to leave, it is exciting to see the change inscore as I periodically check on the game.

This is just another reason why I love this game and I can't get away from it, no matter HOW I watch it.

Today is a new day

2011-05-23T22:50:00.000-07:00

Having a son request dad to "play baseball" pulls at the heartstrings of this Father.

What happened during that moment made it all the more memorable.

While pitching to Parker in the front yard I overheard Parker talking to himself as he got in his batting stance. As I listened closely I heard these words, "Today is a new day. Today is a new day." He was quoting Chicken Little when he redeems himself for his dad.

It wasn't exactly Babe Ruth calling his shot, but this one goes in the record books as a classic.

Buy Me Some Peanuts and Cracker Jacks

2011-04-10T23:11:00.002-07:00

I heeded the request of the song, "Buy me some peanuts and cracker jacks" and bought Parker and Brock peanuts, cracker jacks, and some baseball cards for opening day. Perhaps this is the beginning of what has been so good to me. Whether it be the baseball or the prize that is inside I hope my boys learn to love life and how good it has been to me.

Trash Talk

2011-03-30T20:16:00.000-07:00

You can't play sports without there being a little trash talk. In our case, you can't talk sports without sprinkling in a little trash talk. Triggered by Jimmer Fredette's older brother TJ's influence on Jimmer, the following conversation took place through email as evidence that trash talking has its place and is alive and well:

My older brother Ryan began the trash talk:

Family:

Check out this article about great BYU basketball players having older brothers to motivate and push their young siblings to heralded success. http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700121221/Jimmer-Fredette-other-Cougar-stars-aided-by-older-brothers.html?pg=1

I hate to bring up the subject again, but I wonder: where did we go wrong? Like Ainge, Durrant, and Fredette, I too was subjected to assaults, fights, bruises, and battle scars at the hands of three older brothers. And where did it get me? A glorious bench career on the Cedar High School baseball team, and a mediocre running career for the Redman.

I should sue you for failing to get me to the NBA or MLB.

Ryan E.

P.S. Remember some of the home-made games we had? Hot-box, the Bunt game, Annie-I-Over? Classic stuff. I remember throwing tennis balls at opposing side when we caught the ball enough times in Annie-I-Over...

It continued with my brother Nate's response:

I can’t believe you don’t remember us closing the sewer lid on you after you would go down there to get the tennis balls thrown at you. What about having to sit on the sewer in the rain until a car passed by. I still remember the football games in the street with Dad as all time quarterback, always seeming to throw an interception that allowed the losing team to come back and tie the score just as we were finishing up for dinner. We had more ties in our lives growing up. Guess it was a good thing we never had a sister or we would have spent a lot of time kissing her.

Nothing better than a good bunt game in the backyard, trying to keep from killing the raspberries while trying to hit each other as hard as possible with a tennis ball.

I hold Jason and Scott accountable since they needed to lead the way. I too had a glorious career, not even making it past my sophomore year in basketball and not even being able to finish a 400M race in track. Oh well—my kids think I was a nerd in high school and I probably was.

Nate

Next to weigh in was Ryan once again:

Good times, good times. And I like Nate’s theory—put all the blame on Scott and Jason!

Ryan

My oldest brother Jason was then on the defensive:

Hey, don't blame me. I clearly recall drafting contracts for you losers to sign that would have put you in the NBA had you done everything in the contract. And, I was more than willing to "motivate" you along the way. Take some personal responsibility!

Then Nate once again:

Your only motivation that I remember is bringing home pizza late at night after your Pizza Hut shift. Nothing better than meat lovers late at night. Don’t know how that helped us make it to the NBA.

Jason back on the defensive:

I was tempting you, and clearly you failed that test. Again, not my fault...

Ryan chimes in with:

I remember the extra-helping pepperoni pizzas he brought him. Something like three layers of pepperoni on the pizza?

Pepperoni isn’t tempting enough, you could have given us more...

Ryan

My brother Scott offers his older brother perspective:

Jason went for the carrot approach in motivation. I was more in favor of the stick. I think the conflicting messages if the reason you never rose above mediocrity.

I think you are also forgetting my efforts to facilitate a PGA career. I don't know how many times I hauled the lawnmower over to the NCAA fields to create a better "tee box." You just picked the wrong sport.

Ryan:

I tried the golf route, but I remember Dad becoming angry because of all the divots we made in the grass. A small price to pay for stardom, but dad missed his chance.

Ryan

Finally I put my two bits in, though the discussion by now was mute (having thoroughly enjoyed the bantor though)

I remember the pizza, the sewer, the bunt game, all classic's no doubt. I was thinking that Scott was going to ride on the tour de France but I guess parked cars got in the way of that dream. And then there was Ryan's rise to stardom as a skater that didn't seem to pan out. My gripe is that you gave me the name of a great but what good did that do me? A stellar career in Church ball? And I also blame Nate for him and "Colonel Sanders" coaching in Jr. Jazz. I was so moldable and yet was in the wrong hands. I do have a State Championship in my back pocket even though it came before I ever knew how to spit sunflower seeds like the real pro's.

Sweet

2011-03-19T23:12:00.000-07:00

BYU is dancing! For the first time in 30 years to the day, BYU is going to the Sweet 16! Why is it so sweet? Here are 16 "sweet" reasons:

1) I love how BYU did it this year. When everything was rollin and it looked as if a number one seed might come calling, the Cougs lost their second leading scorer and rebounder Brandon Davies. This required the Cougs to adjust and play with more heart when critics had all but written them off. This is sweet because it's like watching the right person become Prom Queen for once instead of most popular person.

2) BYU represents the Church and the Church is getting a lot of recognition from this. What a great stage for the Church to be on.

3) Mom is on a mission. My heart goes out to my mom who has probably waited the longest for this as a fan and when it happens, she is on the mission. Not to worry though, she follows them "faithfully" on the Internet. Can't help but think that her being on the mission is helping matters!?!

4) Parker is a BYU fan. Through this all he has been wearing his #32 shirt and has learned the BYU fight song. Sure it would have been nice to have been to a game with him but the best seats are at home anyway!

5) I did get to go to agame and see the "Jimmer Show". I witnessed Jimmer put up 42 in a win over San Diego State. The atmosphere was "electric".

6) This is the final year for the Cougs in the Mountain West Conference. What a way to say goodbye!

7) Dave Rose. I met the man once and have his autograph and a picture with him. I can't claim to know the man but his story is great and seeing a Coach of his charactersucceed is refreshing when compared to his counterparts.

8) It has given me excitement in a "sports famine" known as January through March. Following the stats on-line and talking about it around the dinner table, at work, and on the phone has filled this sports "void".

9) Jimmer Fredette may very well be the best college basketball player I will ever see come through BYU. I can say things like, "I have seen him play in person . . . " and "I have a picture with him" and "Parker has an autographed basketball . . . "

10) My wife is even getting into it. Perhaps sheis sick of me talking about it and has caved in to my obsession but she really is getting into it. It is no secret that she loves good basketball but to cheer for the Cougs is about as "sweet" as it gets from the "sweetheart"

11) My BYU wardrobe has increased. This will come in handy around family not of BYU traditions.

12) I've had to listen to many ofthe games on the radio. Though I prefer watching it on TV, I have learned to enjoy listening on the radio to Greg Wrubell. He is a homer, and I love it. Listening on the radio brings a different excitement.

13) I almost named Brock "Jimmer". Lets just say that the good wife isn't "that" into it!

14) It's magical. When you think the magic iswearing off, Disney waves its magic wand and a new chapter is written. From spectaculars plays to unbelievable victories, this fan is constantly left appreciate this magical season.

15) Jimmer in a Jazz uniform? OK, that would be "sweet" but we will have to wait on that one.

16) The Cougs finally get to the sweet sixteen with shorts that get to the knee. No more will we need to delve into the Danny Ainge videos to make our claim onbeing a Sweet 16 team. Though you have to admit, those shorts are pretty "sweet".

Bracket's - Pick With Your Heart

2011-03-16T22:54:00.000-07:00

I filled my bracket out. Me, my family, and the President of the United States - Barack Obama.

"The Bracket" is a universal term associated with March Madness. It has been a fixture in our home for years. I remember filling out brackets and drawing out team names from hats to see if you could pick the winning team ever since elementary. I can vividly picture my mom filling in her brackets as the games went on. She loved the madness more than anybody I knew. She would cut the bracket out of the newspaper and fill in the scores as they went, no matter what time the game got over. I loved watching my mom and dad make picks. Rarely would my dad pick the underdog choosing to stick with the experts. My mom on the other hand picked with her heart. Year in and year out she would choose the Cougs to win some games in the tournament, of course to her disappointment.

"The Bracket" is a part of my religious upbringing. I remember filling in brackets at the seminary building (something I still do) with seminary faculty and somehow equating march madness with spirituality.

And so I now approach another "bracket". Obama chose Kansas, seminary teachers are fasting and praying, mom is picking with her heart, and me, I am picking with my heart. Go Cougs!

Pick Up Games

2011-03-06T23:53:00.001-08:00

Some of the best games are pick up games, when there isn't a crowd, fouls are based on integrity, and trash talking runs rampant.

Such a game happened prior to the beginning of the 2010-11 Emery High Basketball season. Brother Doria had a brilliant idea to challenge three starting seniors on the girls Emery High Basketball team. In the spirit of competition T-Shirts with our names were printed. This turned out to be the only highlight from the game.

Let it be known that we were robbed. The first game was tight and went in behalf of the lady Spartan seniors. "The brethren" stormed back in the second game winning it to tie the series. Jessica Murray claimed to need to work so we played a decisive game three that we played to 3 (not exactly a fair game). The girls won and claimed victory.

Word soon spread throughout the school that we had been beaten. Brother Doria suffered an injury that may never heal and our egos have been forever deflated. Our only consolation is that these senior girls (Taylor Mann, Tayler Jewkes, and Jessica Murray) led the lady Spartans to a 3A state championship. And we all know why . . .

Because of "pick up games".

Proud Father

2011-01-28T22:14:00.000-08:00

Having made the trip to the game with colleagues and friends, my family was left behind in the care of Melissa's family. As the game approached I called home to check up on things and to update them on what I was doing. To my horror I learned that Uncle Christian was attempting to persuade Parker to cheer for the Aztecs. To my joy I was informed that he stood up to his favorite uncle by saying, "No, Go Cougs". Upon hearing this I wanted Parker in the arena with me but seeing as how this was impossible, did the next best thing, bought him a souvenir that I hope will encourage further Cougar cheering, despite the opposition.

Needless to say, this night this was one proud papa!

I was there

2011-01-27T15:45:00.000-08:00

I was there . . . with 27,000 other Cougar faithful to witness one of the greatest BYU basketball games in history. So great was it that it is the talk of the nation with headlines such as the follow on ESPN, CBS Sports, etc.

"You've Been Jimmered"

"Jimmer Glimmer"

"Jimmermania"

"Mountain Man, Jimmer Fredette"

"Fredette about it"

Many are "tweeting" about last nights performance of Jimmer Fredette's 43 points - even NBA super star Kevin Durrant.As I was driving to and from work today it was being talked about on the radio on the nationally popular Dan Patrick show.

And I was there! . . . . with 27,000 other cougar crazies!

And yet being there left me longing for having my family there. And so I called them. I called Melissa who put Parker on the phone and to my joy heard him say, "Go Cougars". I called my mom and dad on the mission and sure enough they were staying up for the game. And so in a small way I brought them to the game. A game that I will never forget.

The game was incredible and the atmosphere was electric. I went up with the seminary teachers in my area (Brother Doria, Walton, Rudd, Olson & son Craig, Maxfield and Bruce Yost) and we were high fiving all night long. On occasion I would glance around the arena and see who else was there. Elder D. Todd Christofferson was also there as well as Elder Rasband of the Seventy. And yes, once again, I was there!

It is not too often you get to say that. When somebody asks, where were you when . . .? Usually there is no good response. But this time, I was there!

BYU and OHIO STATE Basketball

2011-01-19T15:21:00.000-08:00

It is a good time to be a BYU fan.

It has always been good to be an Ohio St. fan.

Put both of them together and you have a fan that is witnessing something that rivals Hoosiers.

Let me explain. For the first time in my lifetime (that I know of), both BYU (#9) and Ohio St. (#1) are both ranked in the college basketball top 10. For a fan that gets emotional during Hoosiers, this too brings a tear to the eye. Ohio State has hovered in and out of the top ten for several seasons now but watching the rise of BYU to such a status is remarkable. Not since 1987 has BYU been ranked so high. What is also fun is watching how they are doing it. They seem to play the game the way it should be played. Even with a superstar in Jimmer Fredette the ball gets moved around and they pour the points on.

Now, it is only mid-season and a lot of ball needs to be played on the hardwood, but for now I will enjoy every moment of this magical season that I hope has its conclusion late March. And if this does happen, I will get emotional.

Called Shot

2010-10-31T21:22:00.000-07:00

One of the great moments in all of sports lore is when the "Babe" called his shot. Truth or Fiction? A similar experience at the Esplin home may reveal what "the Babe" was really doing.

Much to my pleasure Parker wanted to "hit" the baseball. Not wanting to miss a baseball moment with my boy I obliged and pitched to him. Then I witnessed it, Parker calling the shot.

What sparked this great historic moment? Was it the Esplin blood that bleeds baseball kicking in and revealing itself at an early age or was it the moon that was out early that night? You be the judge.

As for me, it will go down as one of the greatest baseball moments in baseball history

Still Winless on the Mat

2010-10-22T23:25:00.000-07:00

Watching Parker and grandpa wrestle surly must of brought back memories for my dad and his glory days wrestling in high school. Regrettably and yet graciously my dad admits that his wrestling career was anything but stellar (as he reveals his winless record in wrestling).

Back on the mat (our front living room) with my son, grandpa with the size advantage but a repaired neck that Parker exploited to his advantage, was grandpa and grandson. As they grappled back and forth it appeared that grandpa might get his first victory, only to collapse to the relentless blows to the head, neck, and back of Parker's fury. The result, win for Parker, and another loss for grandpa.

Somehow though, I think grandpa feels like he won this match. As a witness, he is right!

The Best Part of a Game

2010-10-10T16:14:00.000-07:00

I just returned from a BYU football game that a friend and I went to this weekend. He was able to score an extra ticket and being the bachelor for the weekend I couldn't turn down the opportunity.

Going to a game is a lot better than watching it on tv. Yes, tv has its perks, the easy access to the microwave, and the couch that enfolds you in its grasp. But I would take the bleachers and the tight squeeze between 60,000 plus fans any day. Why? When you go to a game you see it all, maybe not the close-ups of instant replay but the walk- on linemen on the sidelines trying to pump up a crowd waving a piece of cloth, perhaps hoping that this will get them some playing time. You get to hear the non stop "expert" commentary from the guy above you who apparently has coached many a little league football team. It is difficult to have the interaction at home when the Cougs score a touchdown and 60,000 rise in unison and sing the school song concluding with what appears to be a "california raisin" dance. While at the game you get the "rush" that is impossible to describe but only can be felt. And this is not even the action on the field. Watching the patterns unfold in front of you and to be able to see the open receivers and the holes created by the line is a thing of beauty (in a manly way of course). The hard hits send shivers up your spine and being in a screaming crowd yelling for a goal line stand is exhilarating.

But amidst all of this, my eye couldn't help but see the young families with their little kids decked out in Cougar blue or waving the cougar paw purchased with a small loan under the stands. I couldn't help but watch my mom scream as only a loyal Cougar fan would yell whenever something didn't go BYU's way, "that's not fair". She loves everything about BYU. I enjoy the constant commentary made by myself, my brother, and my dad. These are the best parts of the game.

Yes, BYU won. Yes their was the crazy fans who knew everything. Mom was loyal and bleeding blue, but me? The best part for me was hoping someday that I could be with my son watching the best parts of the game.

That Hurt

2010-10-03T20:17:00.000-07:00

For once the Yankees hurt.

The Red Sox season was plagued with injuries that led to being kept out of the playoffs. As if it wasn't hurtful enough to watch the bunch of benchwarmers play a majority of the season it is more painful to have this lonely October to endure.

But the pain was eased a little this weekend as the Red Sox, having nothing to lose, dished out a little bit of hurt on the rival Yankees. Winning 2 of 3 at the final home stand put a damper on Yankees hopes of winning a division title and home field advantage in the playoffs. This last body punch and uppercut combination still didn't knock out the heavyweights, but it did send them into the playoffs with a nice shiner.

For all the hurt felt by players and Red Sox fans this year, it was nice to go down fighting.

Y Me?

2010-08-22T23:27:00.000-07:00

I'm a BYU fan. I like the "Y". But as of late I am starting to ask myself this question, "Y Me?." BYU's declaration to go Independent caused no small stir in the college football landscape. After a week after its announcement nothing still is official and BYU still is working things out. Below are question that I am asking about the Y that I hopefully get some answers to in the following weeks?

Y not make a statement by going independent and then pave their own path with the rest of the sports in another conference? Does BYU have enough pull that people will follow in their wake if they choose to go to a lesser known conference?

Y doesn't the Mountain West bow down to the mighty Cougars? Like it or not the Y is the flagship for the Mountain West when it comes to exposure and continued consistent success. BYU need not succumb to the demands of the Mountain West when it won't do them any good.

Y does it always seem that there is no obvious or easy path for BYU? Other than the religious answer, I'm still waiting to find out why BYU doesn't part the Red Sea more frequently and leave others in their path.

I love being a BYU fan. As a sports fan this last week has been discouraging and has provided a dialogue between my wife (Ute fan) and myself that has been rather informing. Through it all I am reminded of what BYU and BYU athletics are all about. I love the fact that I am a fan of a team that seems to have a "mission" or "purpose" that is bigger than it all. I love the fact that it can reach those who are not "BYU fans" because the scope is larger than Lavell Edwards stadium. I hope I never lose sight of this and ask too many Y questions when it comes to BYU and BYU athletics.

World Cup - It's a first

2010-07-09T22:40:00.000-07:00

I must be American. I like Baseball and a good old fashioned hotdog, and I don't like soccer. Say what you want about how it is gaining steam here on the fruited plains but it just isn't true. Football reigns supreme and baseball will always have America's heart.

But even as a proud baseball loving American I will actually admit that for the first time I have enjoyed watching soccer. What triggered such a crazy phenomenon I do not know. Perhaps it was the crazy horns blown by the Africans in this years World Cup but I really looked forward to watching American soccer. Though we made a run and got out of the group play and then made an early exit I still feel that soccer has made significant strides, atleast in my eyes.

I still don't understand how there can be a tie, even with the point system. It just doesn't seem right. I still don't understand what is enjoyable about watching people run around only to score one or two goals. I don't think I'll ever understand how bad of actors soccer players can be. But this thing I am starting to understand, it is fun to watch, and for me that is a first. It is too bad I'll have to wait another four years to rekindle this spark.

So as the final approaches tomorrow between the Netherlands and Spain, I just may pull up a seat, that is so not American. But hey, there is a first for everything, even soccer.

A Fallen King

2010-07-08T21:09:00.000-07:00

A Kings throne is always difficult to maintain. Once it is maintained it is ever under attack. Rarely do kings dethrone themselves, until tonight. Lebron James owns the NBA kingdom and he had all of America at its fingertips awaiting to hear his decision as to what his future would be. The King spoke, and the King fell. His choice to flee what provided his ascension to the throne is what is disheartening. He had elevated a city that was in the dumps. It was the peasants of professional sports. His arrival sparked hope and excitement only to be dashed by disloyalty to a self proclaimed throne.

I really shouldn't be surprised nor should I really care. After all this is the NBA. After all isn't it about being the best and doing what is right for the individual? That's just what bothers me. Here a man had an opportunity to really make a mark, to add a jewel to the crown, not only for himself but for those aspiring to be kings, but he abandoned it for personal pleasure and self gratification.

But then again who am I to say anything? I'm not a sports writer nor do I have a place to judge a man. My lackluster basketball career in the Church Ball arena doesn't qualify me, nor does my couch potato coaching habits entitle me to such criticism. But when I see selfishness and disloyalty, it is very hard to not recognize.

So, good for you Lebron. Bad for basketball. Bad for those who need loyalty and comittment. Bad for those yearning to understand what a hero is. Hero's don't flee the castle that has been built by his own people. Hero's defend the castle.

No more castle, no more crown, no more king. I never thought that I would say this but "Go Lakers". A better ending would have been, "Long live the King"not a King that dethroned himself.

Spring Training

2010-03-05T19:43:00.000-08:00

I had a professor going through college who loved baseball. As a result, regardless of what I did or didn't learn from him, he quickly became a favorite professor. He had written a book on the Hall of Fame and just had a passion for baseball. He loved baseball so much that he would send out emails to anyone that wanted to be notified the day that catchers reported to Spring Training. Now I love baseball but for someone to get excited in February, when there was still snow on the ground and when hands were stinging after hitting a baseball with a metal bat, was pretty much married to the game itself.

Spring Training is exciting. I know that sounds interesting because for most sports the pre season is ignored and often missed. Not baseball. For some reason Spring Training is almost as important as welcoming in Spring as the new season. I'm sure there are reasons for this. First of all Baseball seems to bring with it a newness of life, a new beginning if you will. For that reason we love seeing baseball players report to camp because we too get to start over. Another reason I am sure is that it touches something in us that we connect with. For me the sound of the crack of a bat or the pop of a mit resonates the connection between father and son.

Whatever the reason for the excitement of Spring Training I am just glad that baseball is in the air and for the next 8 months I can enjoy everything I love about baseball.

Silver Medals

2010-02-28T16:37:00.000-08:00

Having just witnessed the completion of the USA v. Canada Hockey match which concluded a wonderful and historic Olympic games hosted in Vancouver, I came to a realization of something missing in sport that only the Olympics can provide.

The first is that we should celebrate all accomplishment, no matter what color of medal. During the olympics you hear of the heroic stories of countless athletes who are just grateful to be in the Olympics. A pessimistic, competitive observer might say that this is not what excellence is and therefore should not be celebrated. I watched as the USA Hockey team accepted their medals after a thrilling overtime loss to the host country Canada. I watched as medals were placed around their necks and nations flags were hoisted as the anthem played. Though it wasn't my country's song I still found pride in seeing my flag fly high in the sky. Here I witnessed paid professionals applauded for second and first place. Sure we all would want to stand on top and have the Gold medal. But unlike professional sports such as basketball, football, and baseball, the USA hockey team was given something. Something that they earned and should be applauded for, something that can't be said of losers in other sports that like to forget those who fall just short. The Olympics celebrate excellence even if it means coming up short in overtime.

Thank goodness that every four years we are reminded of these valuable lessons that we so easily forget

On the Air

2010-02-17T22:08:00.001-08:00

Maybe it was the trips in the car listening to the pre and post games of Cougar football (thanks mom) or it was listening to Art Challis broadcast our little league games. Whatever was in those airwaves seemed to have been embedded into me.

Secretly I have always wanted to test the airwaves by calling a basketball game on the radio. There is no greater stage than a rural high school basketball game and such an opportunity came calling. Thanks to my bishop (who calls the games), with whom I also shared my hope, he provided me with an opportunity to call the game. It required a trip over to Delta High School and I jumped at the chance.

It was a great game to call. Emery came into the game undefeated and had already earned the Region Champs title but hoped to finish region undefeated. Delta was playing for a playoff berth so a lot was on the line. Prior to the game I was asked to offer a prayer for the team which was great experience. With headset on I called the play by play as Bishop Labrum did the color commentary. The game went back and forth and Emery had to come back from behind to make it a game. It went down to the final shot which was missed by Emery guard Nevin Jensen.

Though we lost it was a great experience that I will never forget. Though I don't think I will be the next Paul James, I can chalk one up for a once in a life time experience.

You are an athlete - "Courtesy Athlete"

2009-12-23T20:37:00.001-08:00

"You are an athlete" was the informative phrase used by Melissa to describe me as an athlete. By so saying she was really trying to say that "You are not much of an athlete. You like sports and you have played them but you are better off letting me teach the kids how to play sports and you can watch ESPN." At first I tried to defend myself but the more that I do the more I realize that I am not much of an athlete, atleast when you are talking to someone who has coached high school volleyball, ran track on scholarship at a university known for its track program, won individual state champion medals in track and a team state title in basketball. Put this against an athlete that has won a state championship (Little League) and played the ever popular fan favorite sports such as Cross country, golf, tennis, and baseball (JV). This athlete did run a marathon but all that involves is stupidity and moving legs forward for 4 hours. I did have some sportscenter worthy games if only they had had camera's at church ball games.

Yes I think Melissa was right in her statement. I am an athlete, but I think I will let the real athlete teach my kids the sport. I don't mind being a fan, I am pretty good at that!

Heroes

2009-12-20T14:08:00.001-08:00

Where to turn for heroes? I am often asking that question as a new father hoping that my son can have people to look up to and be like. Here were some of the potential candidates that seem to be dropping like flies these days:

Barry Bonds? Never have been a big fan of his but can respect a 30/30 guy. When he started doing things that can't be done I started to wonder. This is a sad case of a future hall of famer losing status.

Alex Rodriquez? The man is a monster and can do anything with a baseball. Wearing the pinstripes didn't help him much in my book but his use of steroids sealed the deal for me.

Michael Phelps? I loved watching him transform from human to dolphin as he made history in the Bejjing Games in 2008 only to be disappointed in his "college life" behavior.

Tiger Woods? Just named the athlete of the decade there is no question that he just may be the best golfer I will ever watch. His latest fall is tragic because it seemed as though he had it all.

Solution? Perhaps we need to look elsewhere for heroes. Perhaps we need to have a new stage and redirect our attention, our applause, and our admiration in a new direction. In visiting with my dad on various occasions, usually after the news of another fallen athlete "hero", I have come to the conclusion that true heroes are Prophets.

A perfect example of this was the 2008 football season where Utah went undefeated. In the midst of the excitement, alumnus and avid fan, Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, passed away. In respect for him the team put a decal with the initials JBW on their helmets. It was clear to me, though not a Ute fan, that these young men knew who true heroes are. They are men who love the Savior. They are men (and women) who quietly serve others. They are men such as Joseph B. Wirthlin.

It gives me great hope to know that the Lord will always have 15 heroes for my children to look up to and admire because we can be assured that these men will never let us down, never.

Oh and By the Way

2009-11-23T15:24:00.000-08:00

Of all the things that seemed to go wrong with baseball this year I finally have something to be pleased about. Though the Evil empire won the world series, and Albert Pujois run at the triple crowned disapated, and watching the Red Sox sputter, today the AL MVP was announced which brought soothing to this aching baseball fan. One might wonder how Joe Mauer might do just that. Well, no I am not a Minnesota fan, although I do like the small market, underdog feel, but it is more about who Joe Mauer is and what he represents that brings gratitude to this yearning Turkey man. Joe Mauer plays the toughest position to win such an award which says something of his mentality and toughness. He also seems to be a genuine nice guy, which is hard to come about these days of steroids. My heart can now rest until next season.

Oh, and a side note, and this by the way is a sad note and a reflection of the sad status of MLS soccer, REAL won the MLS cup. What does that mean for somebody who actually lives here in Utah? Nothing really, I am more interested in knowing who won the AL MVP!

Let's see, how many more days until baseball gets going again???????!!!!!

Go Bucks

2009-11-21T08:58:00.000-08:00

There are many things I love about Ohio State football but this just might be the best! Enjoy and Go Bucks!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPNnIFH6_RU

It's That Time of Year Again!

2009-11-21T08:56:00.000-08:00

With the World Series over and the baseballers hibernating there isn't much that fills the void for this fan - except for what is going to be happening the next few weekends in college football. Rivalries are resurrected and fans all over the nation come to life as they sport "their" teams colors. My colors? Scarlet and Grey and Blue and White. Here is a little history and thoughts on the big games.

Ohio St. v. Michigan.

This is by far the best rivalry in sports. I got to be a part of this rivalry when my dad taught at Ohio State in the 1980's. The whole state would shut down on this weekend. I remember in elementary school singing the fight song during this rivalry week as it was sung over the PA system. These early roots still continue as we moved to Utah.

It doesn't seem to matter how good Ohio St. is when it comes to playing Michigan. If Ohio St. doesn't beat Michigan, the coach seems to be looking for a new job. Luckily for this fan Tressell has dominated the Wolverines in his tenure as Buckeyes coach. I'm looking for more of the same this Saturday!

BYU v. Utah

This is I believe the most underrated rivalry in college football. My participation in this rivalry is credited to my mom's passion for Cougar sports. I don't know if it was her raising 5 boys or growing up in Utah valley that did it for her but her love for BYU has passed on through the family.

Unique to this rivalry for me is my wife and her family's bleeding red. Their cheers as of late have made life as a BYU fan difficult to bear.

BYU usually has the best team coming into the game (this coming from a Coug fan of course, again I got this from my mom!) but this doesn't seem to matter as is the case in most rivalries. Utah comes better prepared and seems to be play tougher. This year the game is at Lavell Edwards Stadium which typically is a good thing for Coug fans but this years disasters have occurred on this field which leaves this game totally up in the air. All that I know is that somebody in this family will be happy!

And Now for Your Emery Spartans

2009-11-12T20:37:00.001-08:00

I have this bucket list of sorts of things that I want to do in my life. One of those has been crossed off now for three years running. I have been the PA announcer for the Emery High Volleyball team. When Melissa began coaching in 2007 I requested the opportunity to do something that wasn't being done anyway. This was a new adventure for me and has been a delight to do. Here is a taste of what comes from the speakers at the Spartan Center at Emery High School:

"Kay (last name of a player) with a KILL (volleyball terminology, boy am I good!)"

"And now for your Emery Spartannnnnnnns" (imagine listening to the music that is played at the beginning of the Chicago Bulls games and you will get the full affect)

"Point Emery" (or vice versa for the other team)

So far I don't know if it makes a difference but they do get me a Wingers gift card out of it! Hopefully someday I will make the big time and announce the basketball games. In the meantime - "Point Emery"

A Part of History - Emery High Swimming

2009-11-12T20:27:00.000-08:00

After watching Michael Phelps historic conquest in the 2008 Bejing Olympics it was fitting that the following summer Castle Dale City opened the new Emery Aquatic Center which I am sure will be the birthplace of many minnows turned Olympians.

After the community spent the summer testing the waters and enjoying the new facility the Emery High Swim Team made history yesterday as it had its first Swim meet in the history of Emery High School. Results will be ignored out of respect for its infancy but to witness history in the making is noteworthy and the fact that nobody drowned is newsworthy.

Will this ever be on the front cover of a Sports Illustrated? No but it was history and I got to be here when it happened!

Radio v. Television

2009-11-11T22:07:00.000-08:00

This year we went back in time as we dumped dish and went to the old fashioned TV with all of its glory in television excellence. Such a decision resulted in a reduction in sports viewing pleasure. Other methods came in handy as I still got my sport fix. One of those methods was the good old radio. I had never experienced what my dad had experienced as he would listen to the likes of Vin Scully and other hall of fame radio voices. My flash back to those days was a real joy. It caused me to look at the battle of television v. radio:

Television Pro's

You can actually be there without being there
Seeing is believing. You can't miss the details
Instant replay allowing the fan to criticize the umps for missing calls

Radio Pro's

The listener hangs on every word and anxiously awaits the response of the crowd
You actually feel like you are getting smarter by listening because it takes more focus and more words are used to describe details
The game comes to life like it never has before and the mind actually has a visual
You can listen to it anywhere

Television cons

The announcers are boring
The sound seems pumped in and fake
Too much show, not enough game

Radio cons

Sometimes you are left hangin
It really stinks when you can't find the station the game is on or it is out of range
It doesn't have the style points that television has

The Victor

In this clash of Radio v. Television I am going to have to give the nod to radio. Yes I probably will still spend more of my time watching rather than listening but this is more of a reflection on my laziness rather than what I prefer. I want to experience listening to a World Series on the radio with my son because that just seems American. I know that every home in America now has atleast two televisions but to me Radio seems more American and if that means that I can spend more time with my family listening to a baseball game then I am going to have to go with the Radio.

Respect "That Team"

2009-11-11T22:01:00.000-08:00

This is a tough one to swallow but I will say it anyway. I am a fan of the game (baseball) and know when I have been beaten. This year's World Series was a sad reminder of that. So with all of the pride that I can muster, here goes:

Congrats to that team that wears the pinstripes!

Congrats to that team that has now won 26 World Series'.

Congrats to that team that has legendary and future hall of famers Jeter, Rodriguez, Posada, and Texiera.

Congrats to that team that spent millions and paid off.

Congrats to that team and my faithful family fans of that team

Congrats to that team for winning in the new stadium

Though that team may have won and beat out my team don't expect this fan to start cheering for that team!

Underdogs

2009-03-22T18:53:00.000-07:00

March madness is all about the underdog. Why do I like the underdog so much? Perhaps it runs in the family. My mom who is miss March Madness is always about being fair and "fair" typifies the typical underdog team. My mom faithfully stands by her BYU Cougars and despite year after year of losing in the first round continues to pencil them in as victors in the brackets, why?, because she is a fan of the underdog.

As I have thought about the idea of the underdog I have discovered some reasons why I like to cheer for the underdog:

- They typically have a better mascot. Take for instance the Dayton game against Gonzaga. It was the Zips versus the Zags. Also the IVY League schools typically have non traditional mascots and typically are the underdogs because they spend more time in the library than on the court.

- Underdogs can't and won't let you down. In fact if they even make it a close game they have overachieved because they hung with a team that is full of scholarship players. All that they have to do is show up on the court and play the full 40 minutes. Utah State is a classic example of this as they took Marquette to the wire.

- Everybody likes a good Cinderella story, something that has all but disappeared.

- They play hard like their lives depend on it. They leave it all on the court knowing that it is just a game and that their occupations will one day occupy their time. Underdogs have character.

- Underdogs love to play the game instead of the game loving them.

- They play the game the way it was meant and intended to be played. It is a team game.

- There is something to be said when a team from a rural Southern Utah can have their moment on the national stage.

- Underdogs fill their seats with hometown heroes so that their not only playing for an NBA lottery ticket but for pride of the high school teacher that is in the stands cheering you on.

Will it ever pay off in my brackets to choose the underdogs? Odds are, probably not, but it sure is enjoyable to cheer for them even if I don't choose them.

Red Sox v. Yankees

2009-01-17T10:52:00.000-08:00

As a Red Sox fan I often cross paths with the pinstripe faithful and I am often reminded of how much better they are then my beloved Red Sox. This is tough to compete with. When I contend that they haven't won a World Series in over 5 years I am reminded of the total quantity of rings that they have sparkling in the double digits. At this point I can't dismiss. Neither can I dismiss the fact that the Yankee's organization is "classier" in their appearance and strict regulations. Nor can I escape the fact that as big and nationwide as Red Sox nation is, it can't overshadow the Yankee pride that sweeps globally. I want to say that the Red Sox have more history and Hall of Famers but am daunted by the fact of the Ghosts in centerfield at Yankee Stadium that remind me of the greats. How about off season signings? Yes the Red Sox can be commended for how they have put pieces of the puzzle together but they have also let the likes of Rodriguez (thankfully), Texaira, Sabbathia, and others slip through their fingers only to respond with ancient Smoltz and banged up Penny. Fenway Park!? Yeah that poses a great argument until you put it up against the Yankee Cathedral which is nationally sacred.

At these points it may see tempting and even appealing to be a Yankee fan. I will not yield nor will I pull a Johnny Damon for there is one thing that the Yankees don't have . . . . Wally the Monster! If there is one thing that reins supreme when it comes to Yankee's versus Red Sox it is this, WE HAVE A BETTER MASCOT! And so it is, not only do they have a decent mascot to duel with the Red Sox but they don't have this fan though beat down and embarrassed as he may be. Go Red Sox

The Rivalry Begins

2008-11-15T19:11:00.000-08:00

Do you bleed blue or do you bleed Red? As far as I am concerned the "Holy War" has officially begun now that BYU took care of business and the Utes just had to snap the ball to beat the Aztecs tonight. I'm looking forward to this years game. It looked like for awhile that Utah would be the underdog but now the Cougs come in as the underdog on the road to try and win a share of the conference championship. This game is intriguing to me for many reasons.

It's for a share of the conference title that BYU has held for the past three years
Despite the Cougars winning the 3 conference championships Kyle Whittingham might beat Bronco to a BCS bowl game
It is a time when I hold my breath and wonder if I will be invited to Thanksgiving with my Ute in-laws
It should give the Mountain West some national recognition
It's Parkers first rivalry game for which he will be cheering for the blue team
It for once will be more watched than the Ohio State v. Michigan game

It's till too early for me to make an analysis on this game and make any predictions, but this Cougar fan is hopeful after today's big win against the Falcons.

The fun has officially begun!

My Teams

2008-11-15T18:39:00.000-08:00

I love being a fan of sports because it allows you to have a team. We refer to it as "My team". I don't know what qualifies us to possess a team but nevertheless got me to thinking about who "My teams" are and why I root for them

Living in rural Eastern Utah and growing up in Southern Utah doesn't exactly provide exposure to professional sports teams. I was left to the influence of brothers and friends and whatever game was on the television. Here are my favorite teams.

BASEBALL: Growing up I was an Atlanta Braves fan because it was always on TBS and we faithfully watched "Brother Murphy". I too was a San Francisco Giants fan because my favorite player Will "The Thrill" Clark played for them. As he bounced around the league, so did my favorite teams, from the Giants to the Rangers till he retired and now find myself a Boston Red Sox fan (prior to the winning of both World Series mind you). When I jumped on the Red Sox bandwagon it was because they were the underdog and they weren't the Yankees, that was good enough for me. It sticks because of the tradition and because still I hate the Yankees.

COLLEGE SPORTS: Ohio State, BYU, and SUU. Ohio State because I think it is great that you can have a team mascot that is as ferocious as a Buckeye and I lived in Columbus for 7 years while my dad taught at Ohio St. I went to one football game and sat behind a big pole. The Buckeyes won though! BYU because they do this great imitation of the California rasins when they score a touchdown and sing the school song. Mom has always bled blue and I'm a mama's boy! I even remember watching BYU on the church satellite in Ohio! SUU because that is where I went to school. They are the ultimate underdog but I enjoy watching the locals play and I can go to a game and sit wherever I want to sit.

HIGH SCHOOL: Cedar Redmen, Emery Spartans. Cedar Redmen because I'm a mighty Redmen and because they have the greatest school song in the state that I was required to memorize in the 9th grade by Mrs. Weaver. I also loved being a Wigwam Wacko! Emery Spartans because this is where I currently teach. Before each game they play "Back in Black" by ACDC which gets me fired up! I also love that we have a mini Delta Center for our basketball arena (No it wasn't funded by Shaun Bradley).

Souveniers

2008-11-09T17:45:00.001-08:00

I cringe at the story my dad tells of his mom throwing away baseball cards that had the likes of Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, and Sandy Koufax. I would cringe because I would look in the latest Beckett and see how much that they are worth. I now cringe for a different reason. What is behind those baseball cards carefully collected and traded with friends?

Over the years I have collected some sports memorabilia, from pennants to bobble heads. I have had walls covered with Sports Illustrated covers and signed baseballs nicely on display. I remember as a kid going to Newman Duncan's Card Shop and spending my allowance money on baseball cards. I remember trading baseball cards with my brothers and neighbors. . I have on my shelf home run balls hit during batting practice. Each souvenir seems to tell a story or bring back a memory for me. Here are some of my favorite souvenirs on display

"Big Papi" Batting Practice Home Run ball. I wish I could claim this one as mine but I got this souvenir by default. I had camped under the ball thinking I was the only one in the area when a friend of mine from above me snagged it out of the air at the same time. Recognizing my disappointment and knowing I was a Red Sox fan, he graciously gave me the souvenier. This reminds me of the good that is in people.
My picture of Cal Ripken Jr. breaking the consecutive game streak held by Lou Gehrig. I took a picture with my camera hoping to catch the moment. What resulted is a picture of a TV with a glare on it! But hey, I witnessed history!
My baseball signed by my Little League all-star team the year we went to California. Not one of us ever made it big, but for a moment we were on the big stage for a 12 year old!
A carved baseball bat carved by my dad one day up the mountain. This is a reminder of how he taught me this great game and how it brings us together.
My Lions hat that I got when I coached little league with my buddies from High School. They are purple with an "L" on the front. Our team always complained, "Why do we have to have an "L" on our forheads?
My collection of baseball cards, from Dale Murphy to Will "The Thrill" Clark. I could immitate their stances you know!
Miniature baseball helmets that track the pennant race
a baseball bat crudely made in wood shop in hopes of recreating the "natural"
chip hilton series that reminds me of the way sports should be played

I have often wondered the value of these things but have found that they are worth dusting off and remembering. I just can't fathom those Cubbie fans throwing back a home run ball. They are missing out on a great souvenir .

Why I Love this Game - the batting stance

2008-11-09T17:45:00.000-08:00

When was the last time you heard a football fan talk about how T.O. lined up at the line of scrimmage or a basketball fan that raved over how Chris Paul shot his foul shots? Yes you have your heisman pose and you have your occasional Michael Jordan with the tongue and Karl Malone praying at the foul line but in Baseball you notice the stances and the approaches. This is why I love this game so much.

I love baseball because each player has a unique batting stance. Over the years I learned to love watching how the players entered the batting box. I loved how they tried to intimidate or challenge a pitcher by crowding the plate not realizing that a 95 mile an hour heater could be coming at their head. Growing up I would try to immitate those batting stances that I enjoyed the most. For some, that was the only highlight of their career.

Here are what I consider some of the top batting stances

Julio Franco. Not only does he like to show off his armpit but how he gets that bat throw the zone at the age of 90 is beyond me!

Eric Davis. It was like watching a balancing act with the bat before it exploded at a fastball.

Dale Murphy. His was my personal favorite with his little swaggle with the bat movingbelow his waist a few times in repetition. If only this could have helped him hit the low curveball.

Will "The Thrill" Clark. The sweetest swing in baseball as he casually and relaxed in the box peered over that shoulder.

Kevin Youkilis. His stance is quickly emerging as one of the most annoying but he seems to get the job done.

Ken Griffey Jr. It doesn't get much more perfect than that!

Mark Lemke, Sid Bream, and Otis Nixon. I thought I would throw these guys in because they never ever would be mentioned otherwise.

Alfonso Soriano. The high leg kick is sweet!

Albert Pujols. His light hands and compact stance is powerful.

SPORT OF THE WEEK - Speed Stacks - Don't blink!

2008-11-03T16:36:00.000-08:00

Speed stacking? That is what I thought when I stumbled upon this sport, and yes it is a sport. I learned of this sport when some neighbor friends of ours came over and did a demonstration. It is a sport of great hand to eye coordination and speed. It seems to be a hit for all ages, something that not every sport can claim. There are a lot of different games you can do within this sport and their are even competitions on the national level. I love this sport because of its simplicity in theory yet difficulty and challenge in performance. I haven't purchased my own set of cups for myself but could see it coming in handy for vacations because of the ease of use with this sport. I don't know if this sport will ever make it on ESPN but if Food eating competitions can do it, then Cup Stacking reigns!

To view how to play this sport and to see some demonstrations, check out these websites

www.speedstacks.com

World Record http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNG3sgk02Lc&feature=related

After watching this, let me know what you think! Who thought that all of those times of loading and unloading dishes didn't make a difference!

Sports Supremacy

2008-11-03T16:01:00.000-08:00

I took a Sports History class while attending SUU (now that is "higher education") and surprisingly we spent a lot of time not discussing the 3 powerhouses in Sports, Baseball, Football, and Basketball. Too my amazement and delight I actually enjoyed learning about the beginnings and development of tennis, boxing, and golf. Here is how I would rank the popularity of sport from my point of view

Here is the food chain when it comes to Sports popularity

Majors

Baseball - It's hard to look past the "National Pastime". It's had its ups and downs but despite the steroid controversy finds its way in the top.
Football - Have you seen the grocery stores during the Super Bowl, I never knew they could stock pop that high, not to mention the decline in Sunday observance indicates supremacy for this sports Giant
Basketball - This is on the decline for me. From tatoos to the thug culture it is hard for me even to watch the Slam Dunk contest during the All-Star break. Regardless of my preferences they still fill the seats.

Mid Majors

Soccer. This may rile up a few (a majority of the world) fans of this high intensity, non stop, yellow card giving, thrill of running up and down a field only to end in a tie sport. I refuse to put a sport in the category of Major when it can end in a tie and that a referee can be killed after a game.
Hockey. I've never really enjoyed this sport unless its been made into a movie like "The Miracle" or the "Mighty Ducks". It was rather enjoyable watching it on FOX when they would highlight the puck so that amateurs like myself could atleast follow along. Perhaps if I were Canadian then I would like it. My respects though to those who can play this sport and live to not have dentures in their mid thirties.
Golf. This to me is on the verge of a Major sport in light of the difficulty that this sport requires. This sport seems though to lack the thrill factor for the average fan. I personally enjoy the Ryder Cup and the intensity of every shot but would suggest to the PGA that minature golf might have more success.
Nascar. I don't get it, but a lot of people watch it, and so they tell me.

Minors

Tennis. A sport that has the word "love" doesn't attract the barbarious Ultimate Fighting culture that we live in. It is also hard for me to get into Tennis when they can't decide what kind of court to play on, grass, or dirt, make up your mind!
Ping Pong. This is a step up for my Chinese friend ping pong players. Every church or seminary has a ping pong table so they get my vote to be in this category! Go Chinese
Volleyball. This is a very misunderstood sport. After announcing this sport for two years I have gained a respect for this sport. It's all about good hands and agility. It is also played at family reunions and church functions.

On the bubble: Horseshoes, Fishing, Shuffleboard, Darts, Bocci Ball, Croquet, Geo Caching, Pickle Ball, and Racquet Ball

To all benchwarmers

2008-10-30T20:29:00.000-07:00

When I was 12 years old I was in the prime of my little league baseball career. I had had my growth spurt and I had just enough to take one out of the park. I made the all-star team which gave me a free ride on a fire truck when taking state and trips to Orem and California. Visions of becoming a major league ballplayer were promising. I was the lead off batter for the mighty Elks (thanks to Ryan's birthday piggybacking me onto his team) and things were great. Years went by as I made my way through high school baseball but visions soon faded as I found that collecting splinters on the bench was soon becoming my past time. My growth spurt had long since faded and I longed for those little league days. Despite my decline in playing time my love for the game of baseball has never faded. I love everything about it and love it so much that I've wanted to change my birthday to October so that it could be during the World Series.

I also have a love for football, basketball, golf, and any other sport that doesn't end in a tie. For this purpose I have come up with this blog. I must admit that this is a mere reflection of what my brother Ryan has created.

I figured that for much of my illustrious sports career I had a pretty good seat on the bench and that I would put those observations to use. I might venture to High School sports to college sports and touch on professional sports until I get disgusted with the arrogance of it. Feel free to grab some sunflower seeds, pull up a bench, toss a ball in the air, hold a ball acting like you know how to throw a knuckle ball, balance a bat on your finger and put on a rally cap, and enjoy the game as seen from the pine.