Tuesday, May 22, 2012

A League of Their Own

1. At the end of the movie I truly believe that Kit outplayed her sister Dadi at home plate. Dadi wanted to win the game, but her sister was determined to finally better her sister and did by knocking her over and scoring the winning run.

2. Women were discriminated among the people in the stands because men laughed at thought that women were not ballplayers. The women did not have to worry about wearing helmets or fast pitching because they are not as strong as men.

3. My favorite part of the movie is when Tom Hanks walks into the locker room and take a pee in front of all the women. He completely disregards their position as ballplayers and is drunk coaching them.

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Gender

Only in some sports do women have equality compared to men. In soccer, women are appreciated, at least in the United States, because our country has produced great players like Mia Hamm and our women's national team made their final of the World Cup. However, in basketball women are never heard of and the same goes for baseball.

What do Bryant, Duncan Have Left?

http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/7927917/nba-expect-higher-duncan-bryant-usage-rates-lower-results

5/15/12

Summary: Kobe Bryant and Tim Duncan are two of the elite players of NBA history and are currently still involved in their careers. People are beginning to question what these two superstars have left to give because their age is starting to slow them down. However, Bryant almost lead the league in scoring this year and Duncan ended the regular season in first place in the West.

Significance: These two players may be old, but they are still very significant to their teams and the NBA. Kobe still has a few years left in his career to catch Jordan for six rings, while Duncan can remain being a role player on the Spurs if they continue to succeed. Why would either players return when they are still achieving greatness?

question: Can Kobe or Duncan win another ring?

Alternate Heading: All Time Greats

Monday, May 14, 2012

Miracle

1.) The Soviets were known world-wide as the best team in hockey for 15 years running. The fact that a bunch of college hockey players from the United States trained for 7 months and defeated them in the Olympics is a "miracle."

2.) Herb Brooks was a great coach because he pushed all of his players to their limits. By making them skate suicides for hours after they tied a game, he made his players learn that they always had to play their hardest in order to achieve greatness.

3.) My favorite part of the movie was that the scene of the USA vs. The Soviets was the longest part of the movie.

Monday, May 7, 2012

Wayne Rooney's Goal Voted Best

http://espn.go.com/sports/soccer/story/_/id/7887893/wayne-rooney-2011-winning-goal-vs-man-city-voted-best-premier-league-history

5/7/12

Summary: Over the weekend, Rooney's bicycle kick last year was voted the best goal in the history of the English Premiere League. Rooney not only made this incredible goal that went into the upper 90, but it was also against United's rivals, Manchester City. The Premiere League was close at the time, but Rooney gave United the edge after scoring that goal and ending the game at 1-0.

Significance: Seeing a pretty goal usually makes headlines, but Rooney's goal is inspirational for anyone whether you like soccer or not. The bicycle kick is not only the hardest way to score a goal in the sport, but Rooney's was pure perfection in form an placement.

Alternate Heading: The Best Goal of All Time'

question: Is it the best goal in soccer's history?


Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Racism in Sports

I believe there is racism in sports exists, but only in basketball and football. People believe that hispanics are the majority of the MLB, but blacks, whites, and even asians play baseball as well. In basketball, all the best players are black players because they are extremely tall, fast, and strong. Examples of the best players in basketball are Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, and Kevin Durant. In football, black players are the majority of the NFL. Running backs, wide receivers, linebackers, and lineman are usually all black, but the quarterback for the most part is a white guy. However, there are also even black quarterbacks like Michael Vick and Cam Newton.

Monday, April 30, 2012

Barca Players Urge Coach To Stay

http://espn.go.com/sports/soccer/story/_/id/7865908/barcelona-captain-carles-puyol-says-all-wanted-pep-guardiola-stay

4/30/12

Summary:

Carlos Puyol, captain of FC Barcelona, spoke out to the public saying him and other players "urged coach Guardolia to stay." Guardolia played for Barca in the past and had a career of coaching the club for five years, winning two Champions League titles and three La Liga titles. Barcelona fans cannot seem to understand why he would part from the club, as they are considered arguably the best squad ever.

Significance:

Barcelona has always been known for their success, but in the past month they have lost in the Champions League semi-final and the La Liga title to a loss from Real Madrid. Messi, the greatest player on Earth, will now have a new coach. It will be interesting to see next season if Barcelona can rebound not only from their rare losses, but with a new coach as well.

Alternate Heading: Barcelona Down The Tubes

question: Why did Pep leave?

Brown's Vision, Bynum's Execution

http://espn.go.com/nba/playoffs/2012/story/_/page/Adande-120429/nba-playoffs-mike-brown-defensive-priorities-were-all-first-playoff-win-lakers-coach

4/30/12

Summary:

Not only did Kobe drop 31 points in Game 1 of the Lakers vs. Nuggets series, but Bynum put up historical numbers. Bynum finished the game with 11 points, 10 rebounds, and an incredible 10 blocks. Bynum is now tied with Kareem for holding an NBA playoff record for most blocks in a game. The Lakers are now up in the series 1-0 and look healthy as ever.

Significance:

The Lakers are playing their best basketball as they enter the postseason, a good sign that the Lakers will return to the Finals again. Kobe sat out the final two weeks of the season to get his bench players ready for the playoffs and each bench player played a key role in the Lakers victory of game 1. If Kobe can score over 25 points each game, Bynum can dominate, and bench players support, the Lakers will win the Finals.

Alternate Heading: Lakers Look Poised

question: Can the Lakers beat the Thunder

Monday, April 16, 2012

Kobe-less Lakers hold off Mavs in overtime 112-108

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/kobe-less-lakers-hold-off-223524759--nba.html;_ylt=AhQq5tRG4FxTnM3qNsRLoUe8vLYF

4/16/12

Summary:

Kobe always plays his hardest when it comes to Dallas considering they knocked him out of the playoffs last year, but he did not have to put any effort into this victory. Last night, the Lakers defeated the Mavs without Kobe and Bynum shined. Bynum had 23 points and 16 boards, while Gasol hit multiple 3's in overtime to help the Lakers win.

Significance:

The season is coming to a close and the Lakers have won their fourth straight game without their league leading scorer. This is a good sign for the Lakers not only for their spot in the playoffs, but because they are proving they can win without Kobe. If the Lakers are going into the playoffs winning without their best player then they are a legit contender for the title this year.

Alternate Heading: Lakers a legit contender?

question: Can the Lakers win the Finals?

Man U beats Villa 4-0 to restore 5-point lead

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/man-united-beats-villa-4-185455765--sow.html;_ylt=Ap48MnxM.pUTqkg.akpuG.wmw7YF

4/16/12

Summary:
Wayne Rooney scored a pair of goals Sunday as United beat Villa 4-0. Danny Welbeck scored United's second goal in the 43rd minute, while Nani scored the last goal in extra time. United dominated the whole game and needed to in order to keep their first place lead above two games. Although United won by four, they had received two penalties.

Significance:

Last week United has an 8 point lead atop the Premier League table, but they were upset by Wigan and had their lead reduced to 5 points. However, this week their victory retained their 5 point lead for another week. As the season is closing this win was huge for United because they are closer to winning the title.

Alternate Heading: United Closer to the Title

question: What are the odds of United winning the title?

Friday, April 13, 2012

Murderball Post

1.) My favorite part was watching the handicapped men showing how they deal with their everyday lives. Despite the fact that they have a disability, they have learned to overcome their problems and now play a sport with competition.

2.) Joe was the most inspirational character because he is handicapped and has a son who he cares for as best he can. He also suffered a heart attack, but lived and got back to being a father and a coach.

3.) The message this documentary was trying to convey was that anyone can do great things, even if some individuals have more of a disadvantage than others.

4.) I would recommend this documentary to anyone that has a loved one who is handicapped because it is a heart-warming film that instills inspiration to its viewers.

Monday, April 9, 2012

Balotelli sees red as City loses 1-0 at Arsenal

http://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/news;_ylt=As5Cp.XefnH2EG9XkufbvUYmw7YF?slug=ap-arsenal-mancity

4/8/12

Summary:

As of yesterday Manchester City seem to have fallen out of the race for the Barclay's Premier League crown. Although City was decreased to 10 men after Mario Balotelli received a red card in the 90th minute, but it did not make a difference to the scoreline. Mikel Arteta scored in the 72nd minute to give Arsenal the lead and from their on it was the Gunners game.

Significance:

Since City lost yesterday, Manchester United are eight points ahead in the league table and seem to have first place locked up. Also, a victory for Arsenal helps them get closer to locking 4th place and a spot in next years Champions League. City started off the year in first place and this past couple of weeks has had incredibly poor form.

Alternate Heading: Arsenal Shoot United to the Top

question: Does City have a chance of winning the league?

Monday, April 2, 2012

30 for 30 TIm Richmond

1. I learned that back in the 80's, AIDS was considered a "gay" disease. However, when other people contracted it they would be shy to reveal their condition.

2. Tim did not tell everyone about his illness because he did not want to be belittled by the fact that he had contracted a deadly sexual disease. He was most likely afraid of the media's portrayal of him if they found out he had the disease. I think he should have gone public with his condition so that his fans and friends could have known why he was not performing to his full potential.

Jet's Tebow unsure if he'll ever be starting qb

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=At1fZ80mPTJFr1GjVv9ZluZDubYF?slug=ap-jets-tebow

4/2/12

Summary:

Two days ago, Tebow told ESPN reporters that he was "not sure" if he will ever start as a quarterback again. Tebow was traded from Denver on March 21st to the Jets to play backup quarterback. Although Tebow was somewhat successful with the Broncos last season, he will most likely not be seeing the spotlight this season with the Jets.

Significance:

The fact that Tebow is now on the Jets with Sanchez is outrageous, but it is even more outrageous that he is not confident in himself to be a starter. The Jets are suppose to be stacked with options in the offense now that they have two respectable quarterbacks, but others think the Jets will be sidetracked with headlines from winning.

Alternate Heading: Tebow Confidence Down the Drain

question: Have Sanchez and Tebow been practicing together?


Rondo has triple-double as Celtics rout Heat

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/recap;_ylt=AvnJtjpgUtDBjZ8PrB7goyG8vLYF?gid=2012040102

4/2/12

Summary:

Last night, the Heat got blown out by the Celtics. Thanks to Rondo, the Celtics looked like the championship winning team they once were. Rondo had 16 points, 14 assists, and 11 rebounds on the night. Although LeBron and Wade combined to be 11-15 before halftime, the rest of the team was 3-18. The Heat seem to struggle off the bench against stronger teams.

Significance:

Although the Heat were defeated, they do not have much to worry about considering they are locked in second place. However, the Celtics realized that if they could blowout the Heat then they could make it to the finals. As long as Rondo is leading his teammates and shining as the best player on the court, the Celtics appear as the strongest team in the East.

Alternate Heading: Rondo is Boston

question: Can Rondo take Boston to the finals?

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Jimmy V Blog

Kevin Everett

Everett is a former NFL player, who played tight end for the Buffalo Bills. In 2007, he sustained a fracture in his spine and was most likely going to suffer permanent neurological damage. However, two days later he showed movement in his arms and legs and was going to be able to walk again.

Don Meyer

Meyer is a retired college basketball coach for Northern State University. He discovered cancer on his liver and intestines during a surgery following a car accident. His lower left leg was amputated soon after.

Monday, March 26, 2012

Messi Breaks Barcelona Record

http://latino.foxnews.com/latino/sports/2012/03/20/messi-breaks-la-liga-record/

3/26/12

Summary:

On March 20th, Lionel Messi broke Cesar Rodriguez's record for the most career goals out of any Barcelona player. With a hat-trick in Barcelona's 5-3 win over Granada, Messi increased his total goals to 234. Messi, three time defending champion of FIFA Player of the Year, has scored in seven straight games, collecting 17 goals. Currently, Messi leads La Liga in scoring with 35 goals and now has six hat-tricks on the season.

Significance:

Messi debuted for Barcelona in 2004, meaning he broke a long standing record of one of the best clubs in the world in 8 years. Also, he is a mere 24 years old and is on track to double this total by the end of his career. Not only is he considered the best player in soccer today, but Messi has been hailed by ESPN as the best to ever play the game. The Barcelona star has incredible talent and is history in the making every game he continues to play.

Alternate Heading: 24 Year Old Messi Breaks Barcelona Record

question: What is Messi on track to achieve?


Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Inspirational Athlete

I found J-Mac's story the most inspirational because for a kid with autism to shoot 6 for 10 from the three point line and score 20 points makes a statement: People suffering from a disability should encourage themselves to do great things. J-Mac scored more than almost any player on the court that game and has a disability, but he did not let that stop him. Anybody who has seen or heard J-Mac's story should be convinced that disadvantages can be overcome.

Monday, March 19, 2012

The Natural Essay - Avenues & Thesis

Thesis: The woman in Roy's life, that he at one point admired, ultimately lead to his failure to become a great ballplayer.

Avenues:
1. Positive to negative transition with Harriet Bird
2. Iris Lemon
3. Memo (caused Roy stress over hitting a boy, caused Roy to throw the game)


Fabrice Muamba Remains Critically Ill

http://espn.go.com/sports/soccer/story/_/id/7705008/bolton-midfielder-fabrice-muamba-remains-critically-ill

3/19/12

Summary:

Fabrice Muamba, a midfielder on Bolton Wanderers, suffered cardiac arrest two days ago on the field in an FA Cup match against Tottenham. Muamba was following up on a play in the 40th minute when he suddenly collapsed to the ground and started shaking. Immediately, players and trainers surrounded him to help and realized he had a chance of dying right then and there. Multiple players walked away in grief and could not bare to look at their teammate dying before their eyes, but Muamba was given a defibrillator and remains in critical condition.

Significance:

There is no significance to the sports world from this story, but it is the second time ever a professional soccer player has suffered cardiac arrest during a game. Unfortunately, the first case ended it immediate death. Luckily, Muamba is still alive but has 50/50 chances of survival. Muamba's story is also significant because it is a scary thought that anybody at anytime could suffer a fatal attack.

Alternate Heading: A Deadly FA Cup Match

question: Is Muamba responsive yet?

Monday, March 12, 2012

Rooney scores twice as United beats West Brom 2-0

3/12/12

http://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/news;_ylt=AkOVMMr1MXXoMsy99dKnJOQmw7YF?slug=ap-epl-westbrom-manchesterunited

Summary:

On Sunday afternoon, Manchester United reclaimed first place in the Premier League after defeating West Brom 2-0. The first goal came from a cross by Javier Hernandez which Rooney directed towards the net on a volley with his right foot in the 35th minute. In the 66th minute, Rooney scored again, this time off a penalty kick that Hernandez had drew for United. Manchester United put this game as their number one priority because the win gave them a one point lead in the league standings. United started a strong lineup, including Rooney, Hernandez, Ashley Young, and Danny Welbeck.

Significance:

Manchester City, United's rivals, have been first place in the league since the season started until now. City lost 1-0 to Swansea City the same afternoon that United beat West Brom 2-0. While United claimed first place, they also had Javier Hernandez back in the lineup, his first game played in several months. Hernandez is a key part to United's success and his link with Rooney gives them a strong offense and good chance of winning the league. Also, United are no longer in the FA Cup or the Champions League and only have the Premier League left to claim.

Alternate Heading: Hernandez Return Sparks a United Victory

question: Why didn't they focus of Hernandez's return as a major part of the win?

30 for 30: The Two Escobars

1. Soccer and the drug industry were connected because the team's performance depended on how much violence there was in society, Pablo Escobar used drug money to support soccer in the country, and people believed in soccer to be the freedom away from all the drugs/chaos.

2.Pablo Escobar is controversial because although he was the biggest drug trafficker in Colombia, he used the money he made to help his country, building homes and setting up community fields. I think Colombia was better off when Escobar was alive and dealing drugs because at least he was helping Colombia progress positively and there was significantly less violence.

3. Andres Escobar was a great soccer player and patriot of his country. However, I think he was asking to be killed the night he went out because he knew there was terror in Medellin and he tried to talk sensibly with drug cartel members who were angry with him.

4. I liked this documentary because it revealed to me what was going on behind the curtains of Colombia's national soccer team. People around the world may think that Colombia played poorly in their World Cup performance, but they do not know what kind of pressure and situation they were playing under.

Monday, March 5, 2012

Kobe Bryant's 33 powers Lakers past Dwayne Wade, Heat

3/5/12

http://sports.espn.go.com/los-angeles/nba/recap?gameId=320304013

Summary: Yesterday afternoon a star-filled NBA battle took place between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat. The Lakers played at home and defeated the Heat 93-83, with Kobe scoring a game-high 33 points. Bryant generated his 3rd straight game with 30+ points and moved the Lakers into 4th place in the West. The loss for the Heat put them into second place in the East, behind Derrick Rose and Chicago. The Lakers were able to defeat the Heat because of their edge in big men and the fact that Kobe Bryant is arguably the best player of all time; LeBron and Wade could not handle him.

Significance: After the All-Star weekend, Kobe suffered a broken nose and concussion from an accidental play by Wade. While never clearing the NBA concussion test and having to wear a plastic mask for protection, Kobe has had three 30+ games in a row. Not only does he constantly prove his toughness, but he defeated Lebron and Wade while injured. This win is signicant for Kobe in his legacy over Lebron and for the Lakers because they showed they could beat the Heat if it came down to it in the NBA finals. Also, the game was significant because Kobe is 33 years old, injured, and clearly showing why he is the best player in the NBA.

Question: Why did the author fail to mention that LeBron did not guard Kobe?

Alternate Heading: The Legend of Kobe Continues

Sunday, March 4, 2012

Steroid Answers

1. Phil Taylor is not in favor of athletes taking PED's, but he thinks that if they were allowed to absorb these substances it would help the crime rate among athletes. Also, watching the sport would become more entertaining with stronger and faster athletes.

2. All those athletes are great at their sport and have been investigated for using steroids. However, they are all similar because their repercussions for being found guilty of using PED's were very minimal.

3. The point of Phil Taylor's editorial is that PED's are barely illegal. Taylor believes that since many players get away with using them and become an admired spectacle that they might as well be legal. Although they are illegal, players who have used them in the past and been caught have suffered minor punishments.

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Michael Vick Answers

1. After Michael Vick was found guilty of holding dog fights on his property, the media and public voiced opinions. The media went as far as calling him a fascist and the majority of citizens drew disgust at the thought of the quarterback. However, some African American citizens believed that racism was being shown towards Vick in his treatment by the media and public.

2. The author says that Vick was addicted to gambling, an addiction that many cannot give up easily. He also stated that if it were a more understanding society, Vick could have been treated with rehabilitation and education instead of punishment.

3. The author claims that when black athletes are guilty of foul play they dominate the media as opposed to white athletes who's stories are easily forgotten.

4. The author brings up a good point by asking why Vick should be demonized and sent to jail when the New Orleans police officers were not investigated for slaughtering animals after Hurricane Katrina.

5. The author wonders why Bush and Cheney are not sentenced to time in prison for their crime of indirectly killing many people in the Middle East.

6. I do not agree with this statement because Michael Vick was caught conducting these dog fights and could have chosen to stop this disgusting scene whenever he pleased. Vick could have made money off endorsements or regular gambling, but instead chose to take the lives of innocent animals for money he did not need.



Monday, February 27, 2012

Possible NBA Finals Preview On Display

2/27/12

http://espn.go.com/nba/allstar2012/story/_/id/7619510/nba-possible-nba-finals-preview-display

Summary:

Last night, the NBA All Star game ran through the records books. The first half was the highest scoring half of any All Star Game, Kobe Bryant became the number one All Star Game scorer of all time, and the final score was also highest in history. However, the main point of interest was the battle between Kevin Durant and Lebron James. While both superstars finished the game with 36 points, the West won the game and Durant earned MVP. Although James had better stats all around than Durant, the award was given to the man on the winning team.

Significance:

Both men are basically considered the two best small forwards in the league, even though their games are quite different. Lebron averages better all around stats than Durant, but Durant has the edge on him in scoring. Also, Lebron has Miami atop the East Conference while Durant has the Thunder atop the West Conference. As spectators nationwide watched the game, they saw what could very well be the battle during this next NBA Finals.

Alternate heading: A Preview of the NBA Finals

Question: What is the Heat's record against the Thunder this season?

Possible NBA Finals Previewon Display

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Comeback Athletes

1. Tiger Woods

Tiger Woods, arguably the best golfer to ever live, was caught cheating on his wife with 121 different woman over a span of multiple years. This put a major blemish on Woods career and caused him to lose many fans, along with sponsors. However, after a divorce, sexual rehabilitation, and time away from the game, Tiger finally recuperated and got back to being a great golfer. He has only won one tournament since then.

2. Eric Abidal

Eric Abidal is one of the best soccer players to ever play for Barcelona. He plays defense for Barca as a right back and plays internationally for France. Last year he was diagnosed with a tumor and missed six months of action with his club. However, he miraculously recovered from his battle with cancer and came back in time to win the Champions League Final as part of the starting 11.

3. Ben Rothelisberger

Big Ben has not only comeback once, but twice. Early in Ben's career, he was riding his motorcycle in Pennsylvania and fell off at a high speed, suffering severe head injuries. It took Ben a couple of months to recover, but amazingly he got back to quarterback for the Steelers and won two championships.

4. Michael Vick

Michael Vick was convicted of holding illegal dog fights for money while playing for the Atlanta Falcons and in result was sentenced to time in jail. After he served his time, he came back to play for the Philadelphia Eagles and had one of the best seasons of his career. Also, he was an MVP candidate his first season back in the NFL.

5. Plaxico Burress

Plaxico played the best years of his career as a receiver for the Steelers and the Giants; he won one Superbowl with the Giants. After shooting himself in the leg in a bar, he was sentenced to time in jail. After serving time behind bars, Plaxico returned to the NFL to play for the NY Jets.

Monday, February 13, 2012

Lakers Survive Road Trip Finale as Kobe Bryant Seals It In Final Seconds

2/13/12

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/recap?gameId=320212028

Summary:

In the latest of NBA action, the Lakers defeated the Raptors in a close game by 2 points on Saturday night. Kobe lead the Lakers with 27 points, while Jose Calderon lead the Raptors with 30 points. As the game came down to the wire, the Lakers were winning 91-90 with 30 seconds left. Jose Calderon made an inside jumper to put the Raptors ahead with 10 seconds left, but the game was far from over. The Lakers started the play and gave it to who else but Kobe Bryant, who took a dribble baseline and made a fadeaway jumper to put the Lakers up by 1 with less than 5 seconds left. Kobe ended up shooting another free throw before the game was over and the Lakers won another game.

Significance:

Although it is only a regular season game for the Lakers, they currently find themselves sitting 7th place in the West. The Lakers are one of the older teams in the league and need to keep winning consistently to make the playoffs. This win was essential for the Lakers because out of all the teams in the league they cannot afford to a loss by a team as bad as the Toronto Raptors. Also, Kobe added another game winning shot to his repertoire.

Alternate Heading: Kobe Does It Once Again

Question: Were the Lakers prone to losing due to their age?

Zambia Stuns Ivory Coast on Penalties

2/13/12

http://espn.go.com/sports/soccer/story/_/id/7568767/zambia-wins-african-cup-nations-dramatic-finale

Summary:

As of February 12th 2012, Zambia won its first African Cup of Nations. The African Cup of Nations is the main international football competition in Africa. Each nation is represented in the Cup, but only the top six teams will advance to play in the next World Cup. Zambia went into the game as underdogs, but came up victorious after 120 minutes had gone by and a penalty shootout decided the fate of the game. The shootout came down to 7-7 when Kolo Toure of Ivory Coast had his shot saved, the first of the shootout.

Significance:

Although the six best teams of the cup advance to the World Cup to represent the continent of Africa, Zambia has ensured that they will be playing in Brazil in 2014. Nineteen years ago, a plane crash killed 18 members of the Zambia football squad. The significance of winning this cup means more than anything to the players because they finally have brought some positive light to the club and to their poverty stricken country.

Alternate Heading: Zambia Finally Shines

Question: Has Zambia ever made it to a World Cup before?

Thursday, February 9, 2012

The Story of Marcus Dupree

1.) Although Dupree was an extremely talented athlete, he had multiple factors that contributed to his downfall. First, Dupree was treated like a king in his hometown since he brought attention to the small community and became known nationwide. When he moved out of his home state and into a much larger football program, playing for the University of Oklahoma, Dupree was under much more pressure. He was pushed further and harder than he had ever been pushed before; he was not used to being professionally taught rather than being adored. Also, Dupree was large for a running back and began to gain injuries due to his size, the amount he ran, and the amount he got hit. On top of the injuries, the stress from the media got into Dupree's head.

2.) I only feel bad for Dupree because he had so much talent and let that all go to waste by not sticking with Oklahoma. I do not believe that he was mistreated enough that he concluded it was not enjoyable to play for one of the best college teams in the nation. A large reason why I also don't feel bad for Dupree is because I think he is a quitter for leaving his teammates and fans midway through the season.

3.) The only connection I can make for Marcus Dupree and Roy Hobbs is that they both were in some ways "cheated" out of the glory and fame they potentially could have had.

Monday, February 6, 2012

Man U earns point with furious rally

ESPN
http://espn.go.com/sports/soccer/story/_/id/7543189/manchester-united-storms-3-0-tie-chelsea
2/5/12

Summary:

On Sunday morning, a new chapter was added to the rivalry of Barclay's Premiere League Clubs Manchester United and Chelsea. Going into halftime, Chelsea had the lead at 1-0. Soon after the second half had commenced, Chelsea proceeded to score two more goals. With 40 minutes left to go, Wayne Rooney netted a penalty kick to put United on the scoresheet. After another ten minutes Rooney netted a second penalty shot and United had 20 minutes to come back. In the 84th minute, Javier Hernandez scored United's third goal and earned his team a point on the league table with a tie.

Significance:

Although the match was a major rivalry, Manchester United's comeback was extremely significant because instead of getting no points they received one. United currently sits second in the league, two points behind Manchester City. With a tie, United put themselves within one game of the league leaders.

Tom Brady's Wife Blames Husband's Teammates For Loss

The Post Game
http://www.thepostgame.com/blog/dish/201202/tom-bradys-wife-blames-patriots-teammates
2/6/12

Summary:

An hour after the Superbowl concluded, Gisele Bundchen threw her husband's teammates under the bus for the Patriots loss. Tom Brady was mentally drained after losing to the Giants for a second time in the Superbowl, but his wife's reaction added to the chaos. Gisele was recorded on video saying, "You have to catch the ball when you're suppose to catch the ball. My husband cannot throw the ball and catch the ball at the same time"

Significance:

With a bunch of tired and upset men, the last thing the New England Patriots wanted to hear was a supermodel telling them they did not live up to their leader's standards. Also, Gisele being husband of Brady affects his image by slandering the captain's teammates.

Friday, February 3, 2012

Five Superstar Athletes

5 Superstar Athletes
- Tom Brady
- Cristiano Ronaldo
- Kobe Bryant
- Derrick Rose
- Ray Lewis

5 Qualities of Superstars
- Leader of the team
- Daily hours of practice
- Motivator
- Performs in the clutch
- League leader in statistics

Final Exam Topic: The Scandal at Penn State

On November 5th 2011, Jerry Sandusky was arrested on accusation of 40 counts of sexual assault. Sandusky was assistant coach at Penn State to legendary Joe Paterno from 1966-1999. The Pennsylvania State University sexual abuse scandal is a colossal societal problem within the college itself for the entire student body, fan base, football program, and school administration. On top of the damaged reputation to the university, Paterno was fired from his position. Paterno was not only the head football coach at Penn State, but had made himself an icon of the school over a 46 year span. Apart from Paterno losing his job, the athletic director and senior vice president of the university were fired as well. Students or athletes who were planning on attending Penn State next year as a freshman might reconsider their decision based off this scandal. The scandal at Penn State is a colossal mess that has to be cleaned to re-establish the schools highly regarded reputation and football program.

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Knicks Defeat Bobcats: Melo Has One Point

New York Post
http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/knicks/point_for_melo_f78f0NvW1SJwvOt6Y1fYcI
1/31/12

Summary:

On January 25th 2011, the New York Knicks defeated the Charlotte Bobcats by a score of 111-78. However, the Knicks continue to show struggles in their team chemistry whether they win or lose. The Knicks star forward, Carmelo Anthony, scored only one point off a free throw during the entire game. This game was Anthony's career low in points scored in a game, the lowest it was since a game in 2008. The article is appealing to people who follow the NBA because it is very rare to watch a player such as Carmelo Anthony struggle so much.

Significance:

The win was important for the New York club because they were coming off a six game losing streak, but currently the Knicks still find themselves with a record under .500. While Anthony claims it was good to see his team win without him scoring, he also saw a problem in the large amount of shots he takes. The Knicks seem to struggle with Anthony as their leader, so only the future will tell if that will be fixed or not.