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Uni Watch DIY Project: Helmet Hunt

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[Editor’s Note: Great DIY story today from Mark Kluczynski, who wanted to get his favorite NFL team’s helmet juuuuusssst right. — PL]

By Mark Kluczynski

Back around 2001 or 2002, I wanted a “real” Bills helmet to display but was frustrated that the helmets for sale had little details on them that you wouldn’t see on the field. They were always quarterback-style but the facemask wasn’t like any that a Bills player ever wore. Also, the warning decal on the back was usually the wrong color, and they had a Riddell decal on the back that wasn’t on the helmets they wore on the field.

It seemed foolish to drop upwards of $150 and end up with something I wasn’t satisfied with. So I decided to make my own.

I stared with an old red helmet that I purchased on eBay for about $35. It was advertised as a Bills helmet but obviously the decals were too small and were peeling and there was nothing authentic about it. Nevertheless, it looked to have a red shell that was in decent shape, so I placed the only bid. It arrived looking and smelling like something that had sat around in the living room of a chain smoker for 20 years. I removed the facemask (not authentic-looking), clips (yellowing, needed to be replaced), padding (OK to re-use after some soap and water), and decals, leaving me with just a blank shell.

In the meantime, I studied photographs from Sports Illustrated issues I’d saved from the late ’80s and ’90s. I bid on eBay for a Bills decal kit, choosing one that came with a “free NFL sticker” for the helmet. It also had the “Bills” neck bumper decal, which I decided I needed since the players all seemed to have those. I think the decals cost me around 15 bucks. I also purchased the warning decal with white letters on a clear backing, to match the on-field helmets (there were a couple of eBay sellers that printed these in a variety of colors). That was maybe 10 bucks, which seemed like a lot but I couldn’t find it any cheaper at the time.

I purchased a linebacker-style facemask from an online retailer, which came with plastic clips to replace the ones I’d discarded. On many photos I noticed there was a larger white clip that was often fastened near the ear hole. Research revealed this was a “shock blocker” clip and I decided I needed to purchase those to be authentic.

I also purchased a hard-cup four-point chinstrap from the Riddell website, which I believe was just coming online about that time.

I cleaned the helmet shell and then buffed it with synthetic steel wool, leaving a dull finish. I carefully applied the decals based on photos, with the nose of the buffalo just above the front padding clip, the front toe just above the bulge for the ear hole, and the back toe coming down at about the same height as the rear neck bumper. The center blue stripe was easily applied on the raised area of the shell and the white stripes are applied to leave red stripes of the same width. Back in those days they had white numbers that were incorporated into the base of the white stripe in the rear, but I decided to go with no number and keep it generic. Based on a tip I found online, I then coated the entire helmet with Future brand floor polish, which brushes on like water but leaves a great durable shine.

Then I carefully reinstalled all the padding, facemask, and snaps for the chinstrap. It probably took me four months of research, purchasing, and actual assembly (a process that would be much faster with all of the online resources these days). I’m sure it’s not 100% authentic, but I’m completely satisfied with what I ended up with. And the whole thing cost me about $100.

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And you know what happens now: Paul here, with our regularly scheduled dose of bonus DIY coverage:

• From Steve Johnston: “I recently took my son to a DePaul basketball game and wanted to have a Blue Demons T-shirt for him to wear. But I’m not a fan of the current DePaul logo, so I made a shirt with the old logo. I started with a pennant that has the old logo and scanned it into my computer. Then I used Photoshop to remove the background color, so the logo was on a plain white background. I had some Avery inkjet T-shirt iron-on transfers here at the house (from another project) and printed the logo on one of them. Then I went to Wal-Mart and got lucky, because they were selling their kids’ long-sleeve tees for $3. Long story short. It worked great. No, it’s not as nice as a silk-screened shirt, but not bad nonetheless. I’ll likely be making a few others down the road.”

• From Larry Bodnovich: “I made myself Ohio State throwbacks from 1917 (based on this), 1928 (based on this), 1931 (here’s the back view; it’s based on this), and 1942 (based on these). Now, I did these before learning about some of the talented Uni Watch DIYers, and I have little artistic ability and no sewing skills, so I just went for the look of the Buckeyes’ old jerseys. I used fabric paint for the 1931 design and had the #42 printed for the 1942 jersey (I had to tweak the 2 to get it to look just right). But after reading the Bryan Justman DIY entry and the Facebook DIY page, I have now learned how to find an old-fashioned font, size it, and print it on cardstock to use for tracing old fonts that I would not have been able to do. So I recently made a simple 1929 Buckeye throwback and a 1934 design with old-style fonts (no photos of my versions yet). For now, I have just painted the numbers on using fabric paint, but in the future I may try to use material to sew the numbers on. I’m not as skilled as many of the DIYers, but I made my jerseys for myself and am pleased.”

• As some of you may have seen in last Wednesday’s comments, Matt Powers has completed his latest sweatshirt project — a mashup of Virginia Tech graphics (additional pics here, here, and here). And yes, he misspelled Druckenmiller, so he went back and fixed it.

Resarch Project: Got an interesting note yesterday from Derek Weidl, who’s a TV producer at Red Canoe Productions in Canada. He’s working on a project that I wanted to share with you:

We’re working with Canada’s CBC Documentary channel on our quest to find a Hamilton Tigers NHL sweater, which was listed as one of the top 25 lost sports treasures in a 2005 Sports Illustrated article. We know that at least one sweater exists — a local Hamiltonian collector had a sweater in the early ’90s but sold it for a mere $500 to an unknown American when his life was threatened. The collector doesn’t have a record of the guy’s name or location. We estimate that the jersey would now fetch upwards of $60,000.

We’ve immersed ourselves into the collector’s world and are hunting down descendants. As our leads begin to dry up on those fronts, we are looking to open up our search to a broader audience. We just had an article in the Hamilton Spectator, and we’re also getting the word out via several TV and radio outlets. Since your audience is interested in sports uniforms, I was hoping we might be able to work together.

If you have any leads for Derek, contact him here.

Raffle Reminder: Remember, I’m currently raffling off a copy of that new book about football uniforms. Raffle details here.

Uni Watch News Ticker: Last year’s Chivas jersey had relatively restrained logo creep — especially when compared to this year’s model (with thanks to Randy Williams). ”¦ Two teams are adding memorial patches: the Angels, for Preston Gomez, and Virginia Tech basketball, for Allen Calloway. ”¦ And Spectacular photo gallery of Umbro soccer jerseys here (with thanks to Tim O’Malley). ”¦ Yesterday’s entry on cycling jerseys prompted Zach Laughrey to direct me to this site, which sells lots of cool cycling gear, including some wool jerseys. ”¦ And then there are these guys, who offer custom-designed wool cycling jerseys (with thanks to Kevin Corcoran), and these guys, who make some great wool throwbacks, including several designs that were featured in yesterday’s book review. ”¦ Remember my recent entry about the Cheney Studs? Austin Cohoon used to work at Cheney Stadium back when he was in high school and passed along this tidbit: “There were all kinds of murals around the stadium. My favorite was this one, showing all of the teams that called Cheney Staduim home since it opened in 1960. From left to right: Giants, Cubs, Twins, Yankees, Tugs, Tigers, and Rainiers. The name Tigers for the A’s affilate in the ’80s and ’90s was a homage to the old Tacoma Tigers of the PCL, which was sold to the San Diego and later became the Padres.” ”¦ Also from Austin: “The University School (a private school run by Nova Southest Univ.) has copied Oregon’s uniforms.” Wow. Additional pics here. ”¦ “Every year the Idaho Steelheads (ECHL) wear special jerseys for charity auctions,” says Mike Kingery. “In past years they’ve done a Boise State football theme. This year they wore an American flag-themed jersey to honor the World Special Olympic Winter Games, which just wrapped up in Boise.” ”¦ Paul Bielewicz is working to document the uniform and graphic history of the Rochester Red Wings (the nation’s oldest minor league franchise, don’tcha know). “One detail that’s proven difficult to document is a one-year style that the Wings wore in 1932,” he says. “Until a few days ago, all I had to go by was a team photo and a few questionable illustrations. But I recently stumbled across a link to an old home movie taken at the Wings’ 1932 home opener. Among the interesting tidbits I gleaned from the video are much better views of the pennant-shaped ‘wings’ on the sleeves, which were unique to this one-year style. In addition to this, the video shows their two-tone hats (which were colored on the front panels and white in the back — the opposite of the modern convention), colored belt tunnels and pocket flaps, and some decent views of the beautiful outfield scoreboard and advertisements.” ”¦ Yesterday’s Ticker item about Andy Chalifour turning his battered old caps into fridge magnets struck a chord with Dan Wagner, who writes: “I too get very attached to my old hats. Until recently, I had an old University of Michigan hat that I’d for over 10 years. This past fall, a coaching buddy and I took a trip up to Ann Arbor to take in the UM/MSU game in the Big House. After the game, I paid my last respects by placing the hat on one of the rails at the edge of the field, took a few pics, then left. Even though I know my hat probably ended up in some dumpster somewhere, the last time I saw it was in the Big House. My original plan was to get onto the field or throw the hat onto the field, but the police officers standing nearby didn’t seem too happy that UM lost to those guys from East Lansing for the first time in like 1,200 years.” ”¦ I’ve previously run photos of motocross rider Chad Reed wearing Chargers gear, and now another motocross guy is doing the same thing: Ryan Villopoto. “And Josh Grant, another racer, reportedly wore a Chargers jersey during practice laps,” reports Sean Clancy. ”¦ I really need to do more research on Congressional baseball games (great find by Bob Andrews). ”¦ A while back we had some chatter about how frat guys at Hamilton College would dress up in bizarro outfits while working the chain gang during Hamilton football games. There’s some photographic documentation of that phenomenon here (with thanks to Mark Kluczynski). ”¦ The new Women’s Professional Soccer league will be unveiling its uniforms next Tuesday evening. ”¦ If you’ve been dying to own some Marshall uniforms, here’s your big chance (thanks, Phil). ”¦ The Lions, after stoking lots of logo and uni rumors, are now playing coy. You heard it here 17th: They’re making small changes but nothing radical. ”¦ The 49ers will unveil their long-rumored new uni set on April 25th. ”¦ Nike has struck a deal to provide footwear for all SWAC teams, in all sports, forever and ever amen (with thanks to James Prentice). ”¦ Ryan Hossner sent along this video clip, which he accurately describes as “a veritable treasure trove of mid-’80s European basketball jerseys. From 0:30-0:40 or so, you can see Fernando Martin and at least one of his teammates wearing sleeved basketball jerseys — but the rest of the team did not! Sleeved basketball jerseys are rare enough, but an OPTIONALLY sleeved jersey is pretty crazy.” ”¦ Last weekend I mentioned that I’d seen a red-topped mailbox in an overrated 1971 movie about junkies. Now it turns out that there’s a red-topped mailbox — or, even better, an old-school red-topped letterbox — still in service in Manhattan (best news of the day, courtesy of Kirsten). ”¦ The Hurricanes retired Glen Wesley’s number last night. Photos of the ceremony are here, and game photos showing the two commemorative patches (one on the chest, one on the shoulder) are here. ”¦ Here’s a real prize: a vintage salesman sample jockstrap (which I might actually have to bid on, simply because of that “Duribilknit” tag). ”¦ Cool find by Brendan Tarpey: Hiroshima Carp manhole covers. ”¦ Good info here about the Titans’ AFL anniversary plans (with thanks to Adam Loving). ”¦ A Colorado county is letting its residents vote on whether to adopt a new country logo design (as forwarded by Stan Bush). ”¦ More about Frankie Rodriguez’s tinted contact lenses in the “Not Fashion, Just Function” section of this report. ”¦ Not uni-related, but several of you have asked for my take on yesterday’s A-Rod-athon, so here it is: Aside from the obvious (i.e., he’s not a very good liar, which we already knew), the main thing that kept going through my head was, “What a thoroughly boring person.” Now, most pro athletes are boring — that’s what happens when you spend so much of your time on airplanes, in hotels, and in gyms. It’s not exactly a stimulating environment. But even by the relatively low socio-dynamic standards of people who get paid to hit a ball of twine with a stick, A-Rod strikes me as a particularly uncompelling character. I don’t mean he’s stupid — I mean he’s dull. Can you imagine talking with him about books, movies, design, or any other creative enterprise? Can you imagine him trying to tell a good joke? A good story? Yes, he’s a gifted athlete, duh, but take him off the field and there’s no there there. He’s got zero charisma, zero spark, zero curiosity, zero anything. And I’m baffled by the frequent references to him being handsome, good-looking, and so on — to my mind, he doesn’t even have that going for him (I don’t mean that as a potshot; I’m just using it as another measure of how uncharismatic I find him). All he has is some money. Okay, a lot of money, but that’s boring too, because it’s too big for us to wrap our heads around, so it becomes cartoon money. He’s a cipher at best, a construct at worst. I’m rooting for his story to go away, and fast, mainly because I’m tired of devoting time and thought to such an uninteresting person. And you can say what you want about Barry Bonds, but there’s no denying that most of what I’ve just written here wouldn’t apply to him.

 
  
 
Comments (174)

    that helmet turned out beautiful! great work! great work to the rest of the DIYers as well! i love DIY posts!

    I’d like to appluad The University School in Austin, Texas for taking a uniform that was pretty bad in its own right and backing over it with the ugly bus creating a monstrosity the likes I hope we never see again.

    Looking at those atrocities, almost makes me thankful that Oregon went to the highlighter yellow instead of the drab yellow they used to have

    [quote comment=”315334″]I’d like to appluad The University School in Austin, Texas for taking a uniform that was pretty bad in its own right and backing over it with the ugly bus creating a monstrosity the likes I hope we never see again.

    Looking at those atrocities, almost makes me thankful that Oregon went to the highlighter yellow instead of the drab yellow they used to have[/quote]

    yes, but the kids love it

    HAMILTON COLLEGE

    The Hamilton College chain crew photos are probably the funniest thing EVER seen on Uniwatch !!!

    I’m just glad that I wasn’t driving when I saw it as I would easily have wrecked my car.

    What a HOOT !!!

    The University School is actually in Sunrise, FL. My name is Austin. The school also has the green over yellow version and yellow over white…or should I say “lightning”. This link of the all-county team shows the other uniforms.
    link

    The Hamilton chain crew was dressed up as “transvestite witches” for that game. They left their brooms against the fence while working the sticks.

    I’m still doing some research on the history of the whole costume thing- hoping to get something more to Paul soon.

    [quote comment=”315338″]The University School is actually in Sunrise, FL. My name is Austin. The school also has the green over yellow version and yellow over white…or should I say “lightning”. This link of the all-county team shows the other uniforms.
    link
    My bad…

    And that really isn’t the lightning yellow as it is more of Oregon’s original yellow…

    Trust me, if it was lightning, there wouldn’t be any doubting it…

    [quote comment=”315336″]HAMILTON COLLEGE

    The Hamilton College chain crew photos are probably the funniest thing EVER seen on Uniwatch !!![/quote]

    ah yes…good to know the ol’ alma mater is known for the chain gangs, laughing at syracuse’s old (like…REALLY old) pink unis…and guy hebert

    Man… Beardface is responsible for 2 ticker items today, but isn’t cited for either… darn!

    Yes, I would love to see ‘Beardface’ in bold in the ticker oneday… would make me literally LOL at work…

    [quote comment=”315344″]I would love to see ‘Beardface’ in bold in the ticker…[/quote]

    Don’t hold your breath. With very, very few exceptions, I don’t print nicknames or pseudonyms in the Ticker. Why? Because I believe the use of real names makes for better accountability.

    I don’t care much for most of the DIY projects we get here, but that helmet is crazy impressive. It takes an obsessive eye to really show how much detail there is on one of those helmets. Kudos.

    I love those manhole covers. I kind of wish towns would do something similar here in the U.S., but I suspect a lot of the charm would be lost in an American attempt at the idea.

    Also, I hope Eagle County adapts the new logo, but only because I get tired of picking out anatomical innaccuracies in “realistic” paintings of Bald Eagles. Don’t get me started about the intro to the Colbert Report!

    [quote comment=”315335″][quote comment=”315334″]I’d like to appluad The University School in Austin, Texas for taking a uniform that was pretty bad in its own right and backing over it with the ugly bus creating a monstrosity the likes I hope we never see again.

    Looking at those atrocities, almost makes me thankful that Oregon went to the highlighter yellow instead of the drab yellow they used to have[/quote]

    yes, but the kids love it[/quote]

    As a member of the ‘younger’ generation (I’m 24) I will say that I grew up loving modern uniforms. I was a huge Favre fan back in the mid 90’s and I had a ‘future’ jersey from Starter that was the shit. I need to find a pic. But it was a very modern jersey compared to what they had then and have now and I thought it was amazing. If I saw it today I would probably hate it.

    In the Martin video, his one of his teammates is also wearing sleeves. It just at the :30-:31 mark, you can barely see it, but it is there.

    I would bet that this during a practice session because there was no one in the crowd.

    I love that Bills helmet, even though i am a Chiefs fan. I would love to do the same to a Chiefs helmet, since the “authentic” ones are soo damn pricey.

    Paul Bielewicz,

    Let me know if you need any help with the Red Wings project. I live in Rochester and have always been proud of our city’s team. I’m not sure what I could do research wise, but if you are looking to put together a website or anything I could help.

    -Chris

    Did anyone catch the Purdue game last night? They finally broke out the new uniforms. The design itself was not too bad,but the shorts most of them were wearing were ridiculous. The shorts that #23 wore looked like they would have been way too big for Shaq.. Sorry…i don’t have a picture to link.

    [quote comment=”315353″]Did anyone catch the Purdue game last night?

    They finally broke out the new uniforms. The design itself was not too bad,but the shorts most of them were wearing were ridiculous. The shorts that #23 wore looked like they would have been way too big for Shaq.. Sorry…i don’t have a picture to link.[/quote]

    here ya go

    gallery

    [quote comment=”315354″][quote comment=”315353″]Did anyone catch the Purdue game last night?

    They finally broke out the new uniforms. The design itself was not too bad,but the shorts most of them were wearing were ridiculous. The shorts that #23 wore looked like they would have been way too big for Shaq.. Sorry…i don’t have a picture to link.[/quote]

    link

    link[/quote]

    Has anyone seen Iowa Uniforms yet? I wonder if the reason for the mid season debut is that the uniforms werent ready for the start of the season.

    I, too, am impressed with the Bills helmet. Despite the appeal of the original Bills helmet on this site, I liked the Jim Kelly-era helmet and jersey best. That stuff they have on there today is just ridiculous, almost as bad as the jersey and pants.

    While I’m nowhere near as industrious as Mr.Kluczynski, and have no desire to decorate my home with football hardware, my hat goes off to him. Well done.

    [quote comment=”315345″][quote comment=”315344″]I would love to see ‘Beardface’ in bold in the ticker…[/quote]

    Don’t hold your breath. With very, very few exceptions, I don’t print nicknames or pseudonyms in the Ticker. Why? Because I believe the use of real names makes for better accountability.[/quote]

    Teebz is a lucky one :o)

    [quote comment=”315355″][quote comment=”315354″][quote comment=”315353″]Did anyone catch the Purdue game last night?

    They finally broke out the new uniforms. The design itself was not too bad,but the shorts most of them were wearing were ridiculous. The shorts that #23 wore looked like they would have been way too big for Shaq.. Sorry…i don’t have a picture to link.[/quote]

    link

    link[/quote]

    Has anyone seen Iowa Uniforms yet? I wonder if the reason for the mid season debut is that the uniforms werent ready for the start of the season.[/quote]

    I bet the real reason for the delayed introduction is shipment from China. Since the olympics a lot of product has been delayed because of the factory shutdowns.

    [quote comment=”315357″][quote comment=”315345″][quote comment=”315344″]I would love to see ‘Beardface’ in bold in the ticker…[/quote]

    Don’t hold your breath. With very, very few exceptions, I don’t print nicknames or pseudonyms in the Ticker. Why? Because I believe the use of real names makes for better accountability.[/quote]

    Teebz is a lucky one :o)[/quote]

    One reason I make an exception for Teebz is that he has his own blog, which he links to every time he posts, which creates its own kind of accountability. (Also, I like his nickname.)

    I used to make an exception for Mike from Queens, because I had met him personally, which was yet another kind of accountability. (He never posts anymore, so it doesn’t matter.)

    Basically, I try to maintain a standard of accountability and at least semi-transparency in most cases. It’s not an iron-clad rule, but it’s my strong, strong preference.

    “…And Spectacular photo gallery of Umbro soccer jerseys here (with thanks to Tim O’Malley)…”

    [quote comment=”315351″]And to think those Umbro jerseys are now property of Nike.[/quote]

    Lord, what a great collection. Screw Nike. Thanks to Brother O’Malley. Props to Phil for digging the international scene a little more, without even prompting from Jeremy. And those cycling woolies from yesterday were splendid.

    Does anyone have any pics of the Rangers wearing those new fugly helmets at spring training. I found this pic of Elvis Andrus, taken yesterday, but he’s wearing the old helmet.

    link

    I posted this last night, but it was late, so I’m reposting it-

    I just got back from a documentary class where we watched “Ashes to Glory,” a documentary about the Marshall football team plane crash and subsequent rebuilding of the team (I go to Marshall, so it’s a big subject here), and in it they said the the year after the crash, ‘71, they played with basically all freshman and sophomores, so they had their name officially changed from the Thundering Herd to the Young Thundering Herd. Pretty cool that they’d think of it, and actually got permission to do it.

    OKC Thunder unveiled their new mascot last night:

    a Bison named Rumble. Here is his story:

    They could have done much worse I think.

    link

    sorry I still don’t know how to send an HTML link on this message board…if anyone can quickly explain it to me, it would be appreciated.

    [quote comment=”315366″]Arod, the Patrick Bateman of baseball.[/quote]

    But the huge difference is that Bateman made it all up in his head…and nobody liked him…wait…maybe you are right…do you think A-Rod has fantasies of actually trying to kill a baseball for once?

    [quote comment=”315368″]http://thunder-nba.com/rumble/story.php

    sorry I still don’t know how to send an HTML link on this message board…if anyone can quickly explain it to me, it would be appreciated.[/quote]

    ha! rumble is kinda cool as far as mascots go… NBA teams have a thing about making mascots look tough, huh? i like the “cartoony” mascots myself. still, rumble works.

    i always wished 1 of 2 things for the steelers 1) they bring back that little round guy with a big helmet (please, no jokes about fat steelers, that’s just a layup), or 2) i always though it would be cool if they dressed the parrot and iceburg up in steelers gear and let them walk around during the games. kinda fun…

    [quote comment=”315370″][quote comment=”315366″]Arod, the Patrick Bateman of baseball.[/quote]

    But the huge difference is that Bateman made it all up in his head…and nobody liked him…wait…maybe you are right…do you think A-Rod has fantasies of actually trying to kill a baseball for once?[/quote]

    a-roid has all the characteristics of a human being: blood, flesh, skin, hair…but not a single, clear, identifiable emotion, except for greed and disgust

    I just have to say: all this stuff in ONE blog post is…remarkable.

    The DIY’s are charming. And that DePaul logo takes the cake.

    No doubt about it, A-Rod’s a dull one. But then, there have been very few superstar athletes in my memory with much to offer in the way of charisma or truly compelling personalities. There’s Muhammed Ali. Who else?

    “a local Hamiltonian collector had a sweater in the early ’90s but sold it for a mere $500 to an unknown American when his life was threatened”

    WAT!?

    [quote comment=”315363″]Does anyone have any pics of the Rangers wearing those new fugly helmets at spring training. I found this pic of Elvis Andrus, taken yesterday, but he’s wearing the old helmet.

    link

    Horrible bunting form…..

    [quote comment=”315361″][quote comment=”315357″][quote comment=”315345″][quote comment=”315344″]I would love to see ‘Beardface’ in bold in the ticker…[/quote]

    Don’t hold your breath. With very, very few exceptions, I don’t print nicknames or pseudonyms in the Ticker. Why? Because I believe the use of real names makes for better accountability.[/quote]

    Teebz is a lucky one :o)[/quote]

    One reason I make an exception for Teebz is that he has his own blog, which he links to every time he posts, which creates its own kind of accountability. (Also, I like his nickname.)

    I used to make an exception for Mike from Queens, because I had met him personally, which was yet another kind of accountability. (He never posts anymore, so it doesn’t matter.)

    Basically, I try to maintain a standard of accountability and at least semi-transparency in most cases. It’s not an iron-clad rule, but it’s my strong, strong preference.[/quote]

    I’m very open to people knowing my real name. No problems with people using it whatsoever. With Paul continually using Teebz when referencing me, I’ve stuck with it purely out of uniformity (isn’t that what this site is about?).

    However, when someone sends me an email, I always sign it with my real name just so that I’m not some enigma. Anyone who has sent me an email on my blog gets my real name back on the first response. I feel it makes me a real person, and, thus, accountable to what I write.

    All in all, Teebz works for me, and is pretty common ’round these parts. :o)

    [quote comment=”315372″][quote comment=”315370″][quote comment=”315366″]Arod, the Patrick Bateman of baseball.[/quote]

    But the huge difference is that Bateman made it all up in his head…and nobody liked him…wait…maybe you are right…do you think A-Rod has fantasies of actually trying to kill a baseball for once?[/quote]

    a-roid has all the characteristics of a human being: blood, flesh, skin, hair…but not a single, clear, identifiable emotion, except for greed and disgust[/quote]

    Prehaps he’s a Cylon?

    [quote comment=”315373″]I just have to say: all this stuff in ONE blog post is…remarkable.

    The DIY’s are charming. And that DePaul logo takes the cake.

    No doubt about it, A-Rod’s a dull one. But then, there have been very few superstar athletes in my memory with much to offer in the way of charisma or truly compelling personalities. There’s Muhammed Ali. Who else?[/quote]

    Shaq
    Charles Barkley
    Lebron James
    Dwight Howard
    Dwanye Wade
    Gary Payton
    Peyton Manning (but maybe that’s just because he is in 500 commercials)
    Chad Johnson
    T.O.
    David Wells

    Hey Phil is the person who made a contribution named Mike Kingery the same Mike Kingery who played for the Mariners and Rockies in the early 90’s

    [quote comment=”315380″]Hey Phil, is the person who made a contribution named Mike Kingery the same Mike Kingery who played for the Mariners and Rockies in the early 90’s?[/quote]

    (took me a second to figure out that was a question, [i think directed to me]…added some punctuation ;))

    you’d have to ask paul that, since the ticker is compiled by him; interesting coinkidink regardless

    I feel the need to repeat my comments on the new Purdue uniforms from yesterday:

    Is it just me, or do all these newfangled basketball uniforms look terrible? The lack of trim around the arm holes makes them look unfinished.

    Also, memo to Purdue player: wearing a t-shirt under your jersey makes you look like a high-schooler. Time to wear your uni like a man.

    [quote comment=”315384″]Sorry Phil I work nights, and I am battling the flu.[/quote]

    no worries…when paul sees the question, hopefully he’ll be able to reply

    /feel better

    [quote comment=”315380″]Hey Phil is the person who made a contribution named Mike Kingery the same Mike Kingery who played for the Mariners and Rockies in the early 90’s[/quote]

    I don’t think so, no.

    [quote comment=”315378″][quote comment=”315373″]I just have to say: all this stuff in ONE blog post is…remarkable.

    The DIY’s are charming. And that DePaul logo takes the cake.

    No doubt about it, A-Rod’s a dull one. But then, there have been very few superstar athletes in my memory with much to offer in the way of charisma or truly compelling personalities. There’s Muhammed Ali. Who else?[/quote]

    Shaq
    Charles Barkley
    Lebron James
    Dwight Howard
    Dwanye Wade
    Gary Payton
    Peyton Manning (but maybe that’s just because he is in 500 commercials)
    Chad Johnson
    T.O.
    David Wells[/quote]

    It’s all subjective, of course, but I don’t find any of those particularly interesting personalities.

    [quote comment=”315376″][quote comment=”315361″][quote comment=”315357″][quote comment=”315345″][quote comment=”315344″]I would love to see ‘Beardface’ in bold in the ticker…[/quote]

    Don’t hold your breath. With very, very few exceptions, I don’t print nicknames or pseudonyms in the Ticker. Why? Because I believe the use of real names makes for better accountability.[/quote]

    Teebz is a lucky one :o)[/quote]

    One reason I make an exception for Teebz is that he has his own blog, which he links to every time he posts, which creates its own kind of accountability. (Also, I like his nickname.)

    I used to make an exception for Mike from Queens, because I had met him personally, which was yet another kind of accountability. (He never posts anymore, so it doesn’t matter.)

    Basically, I try to maintain a standard of accountability and at least semi-transparency in most cases. It’s not an iron-clad rule, but it’s my strong, strong preference.[/quote]

    I’m very open to people knowing my real name. No problems with people using it whatsoever. With Paul continually using Teebz when referencing me, I’ve stuck with it purely out of uniformity (isn’t that what this site is about?).

    However, when someone sends me an email, I always sign it with my real name just so that I’m not some enigma. Anyone who has sent me an email on my blog gets my real name back on the first response. I feel it makes me a real person, and, thus, accountable to what I write.

    All in all, Teebz works for me, and is pretty common ’round these parts. :o)[/quote]

    How is Teebz pronounced? I used to read it as TEE-biz, but recently I started thinking it may be one syllable or something else entirely.

    Great slideshow here of old Orioles spring training photos
    link

    Highlights:
    Picture #2: Boog Powell wearing #16
    Pictures #4 & 5: Boog Powell wearing #8
    Picture #6: F Robby wearing the stick bird helemt in ’66 (switched to cartoon bird in 66)
    Picture #10: Baffled by F Robby wearing the stick bird hat in ’68???
    Picture #13: I want that jacket!

    [quote comment=”315388″][quote comment=”315378″][quote comment=”315373″]I just have to say: all this stuff in ONE blog post is…remarkable.

    The DIY’s are charming. And that DePaul logo takes the cake.

    No doubt about it, A-Rod’s a dull one. But then, there have been very few superstar athletes in my memory with much to offer in the way of charisma or truly compelling personalities. There’s Muhammed Ali. Who else?[/quote]

    Shaq
    Charles Barkley
    Lebron James
    Dwight Howard
    Dwanye Wade
    Gary Payton
    Peyton Manning (but maybe that’s just because he is in 500 commercials)
    Chad Johnson
    T.O.
    David Wells[/quote]

    It’s all subjective, of course, but I don’t find any of those particularly interesting personalities.[/quote]
    To me, Ali is the rare combo of athlete at the absolute pinnacle of their game and with the personality to go with it.

    Those NBA guys, with the exception of Barkley, don’t even come close (and I would argue that Barkley’s status as a player was a tad overrated). At least not at this moment in time. But even past greats, Bird, Magic, MJ, etc weren’t really explosive personalities.

    Look at hockey, Gretzky, Mario, Sid, nothing really.

    What about Tiger Woods? He could quite possibly be the most boring personality in all of sports!

    There’s something about that next level of greatness that I guess makes one concentrate on performance and let all that other BS to the wayside.

    How about Roberto Clemente? Different kind of compelling personality than an Ali, but still interesting no?

    The 2009 Sporting News Baseball yearbook has Tim Lincecum on the cover…only he’s wearing a old baseball cap — no black under the bill:

    link

    [quote comment=”315367″]OKC Thunder unveiled their new mascot last night:

    a Bison named Rumble. Here is his story:

    They could have done much worse I think.[/quote]

    is it just me or does he look cross-eyed?[quote comment=”315371″]

    1) they bring back that little round guy with a big helmet (please, no jokes about fat steelers, that’s just a layup)[/quote]

    Casey Hampton?
    link

    [quote comment=”315389″]
    How is Teebz pronounced? I used to read it as TEE-biz, but recently I started thinking it may be one syllable or something else entirely.[/quote]

    One syllable. TEEB-zzz. Like a plural “Teeb”, only with more buzz. LOL

    At least that’s how people know me pronounce it. ;o)

    [quote comment=”315376″][quote comment=”315361″][quote comment=”315357″][quote comment=”315345″][quote comment=”315344″]I would love to see ‘Beardface’ in bold in the ticker…[/quote]

    Don’t hold your breath. With very, very few exceptions, I don’t print nicknames or pseudonyms in the Ticker. Why? Because I believe the use of real names makes for better accountability.[/quote]

    Teebz is a lucky one :o)[/quote]

    One reason I make an exception for Teebz is that he has his own blog, which he links to every time he posts, which creates its own kind of accountability. (Also, I like his nickname.)

    I used to make an exception for Mike from Queens, because I had met him personally, which was yet another kind of accountability. (He never posts anymore, so it doesn’t matter.)

    Basically, I try to maintain a standard of accountability and at least semi-transparency in most cases. It’s not an iron-clad rule, but it’s my strong, strong preference.[/quote]

    I’m very open to people knowing my real name. No problems with people using it whatsoever. With Paul continually using Teebz when referencing me, I’ve stuck with it purely out of uniformity (isn’t that what this site is about?).

    However, when someone sends me an email, I always sign it with my real name just so that I’m not some enigma. Anyone who has sent me an email on my blog gets my real name back on the first response. I feel it makes me a real person, and, thus, accountable to what I write.

    All in all, Teebz works for me, and is pretty common ’round these parts. :o)[/quote]

    no worries, i meant it as a good natured jab at teebz more than anything.

    (sorry got busy at work and couldn’t get back to follow up sooner)

    [quote comment=\”315394\”][quote comment=\”315389\”]
    How is Teebz pronounced? I used to read it as TEE-biz, but recently I started thinking it may be one syllable or something else entirely.[/quote]

    One syllable. TEEB-zzz. Like a plural \”Teeb\”, only with more buzz. LOL

    At least that\’s how people know me pronounce it. ;o)[/quote]

    I always pronounced it teebz-EH?

    [quote comment=”315388″]
    To me, Ali is the rare combo of athlete at the absolute pinnacle of their game and with the personality to go with it.

    Those NBA guys, with the exception of Barkley, don’t even come close (and I would argue that Barkley’s status as a player was a tad overrated). At least not at this moment in time. But even past greats, Bird, Magic, MJ, etc weren’t really explosive personalities.

    Look at hockey, Gretzky, Mario, Sid, nothing really.

    What about Tiger Woods? He could quite possibly be the most boring personality in all of sports!

    There’s something about that next level of greatness that I guess makes one concentrate on performance and let all that other BS to the wayside.

    How about Roberto Clemente? Different kind of compelling personality than an Ali, but still interesting no?[/quote]

    I think the big difference is that Ali participated in an individual competition, whereas the guys who play on a team rarely want to be bigger than the team. Being bigger than your teammates? Career-killer.

    Ali had to be prolific in order to intimidate.

    Wayne, Mario, Sid – all the hockey guys know that it takes a team to win. And it’s precisely why guys like Sean Avery are run out of towns by management and players.

    Shea Stadium is officially gone, as of around 11:30 am 2/18/09. The last ramps to Gate C finally came down around then.
    RIP Big Shea

    [quote comment=”315395″]
    no worries, i meant it as a good natured jab at teebz more than anything.

    (sorry got busy at work and couldn’t get back to follow up sooner)[/quote]

    It’s cool. I felt an explanation from my side might be imperative as well. :o)

    No offence taken whatsoever, Rodd.

    [quote comment=”315383″]I feel the need to repeat my comments on the new Purdue uniforms from yesterday:

    Is it just me, or do all these newfangled basketball uniforms look terrible? The lack of trim around the arm holes makes them look unfinished.

    Also, memo to Purdue player: wearing a t-shirt under your jersey makes you look like a high-schooler. Time to wear your uni like a man.[/quote]

    Arinze Onuaku disagrees!!

    link

    link

    link

    Couple of baseball notes:

    1. Has anyone come across a copy of Who’s Who in Baseball for the ’09 season yet? I’ve been hitting my local B&N and haven’t seen it yet. I thought by now last year I had my copy but I could be wrong.

    2. Tonight on the MLB Net they’re doing a season show for 1982. I’m sure lots of good Pirates and A’s mix-and-match looks (100+ SB year for Rickey), powder blues, Astros rainbows and other early 80s goodness. I’m fond of 1982 because that when I first got a pack of baseball cards and is the first season I can remember as far as thinking back to World Series.

    Sorry to interrupt the Teebz Love Session (coming from a daily HBIC reader and commenter, no less)

    But I stumbled across something interesting in link.

    I’m no big football fan, but at the 0:49 mark of this video, a 49er defensive linemen looks as though one of the bars is bent on his helmet during a play.

    Does this happen often? Have I just never noticed? You’d think that with all the helmet precautions now that it’d be illegal to play with a defective facemask!

    Helmet hunt, indeed!

    I hope these Do It Yourselfers know that they’re putting a bunch of Burmese and Thai kids out of work!

    Some very good DIY work posted. I wish that I had even a clue about this creative world, but in my 34 years on Earth I have yet to be within three feet of a sewing machine. I did make a Joe Theisman facemask out of licorice and tin foil. Only took my three days.

    Is it just me, or does the demon look like he’s dropping a deuce in the hoop in the old DePaul logo? All he needs is a copy of the Sporting News.

    [quote comment=”315391″][quote comment=”315388″][quote comment=”315378″][quote comment=”315373″]I just have to say: all this stuff in ONE blog post is…remarkable.

    The DIY’s are charming. And that DePaul logo takes the cake.

    No doubt about it, A-Rod’s a dull one. But then, there have been very few superstar athletes in my memory with much to offer in the way of charisma or truly compelling personalities. There’s Muhammed Ali. Who else?[/quote]

    Shaq
    Charles Barkley
    Lebron James
    Dwight Howard
    Dwanye Wade
    Gary Payton
    Peyton Manning (but maybe that’s just because he is in 500 commercials)
    Chad Johnson
    T.O.
    David Wells[/quote]

    It’s all subjective, of course, but I don’t find any of those particularly interesting personalities.[/quote]
    To me, Ali is the rare combo of athlete at the absolute pinnacle of their game and with the personality to go with it.

    Those NBA guys, with the exception of Barkley, don’t even come close (and I would argue that Barkley’s status as a player was a tad overrated). At least not at this moment in time. But even past greats, Bird, Magic, MJ, etc weren’t really explosive personalities.

    Look at hockey, Gretzky, Mario, Sid, nothing really.

    What about Tiger Woods? He could quite possibly be the most boring personality in all of sports!

    There’s something about that next level of greatness that I guess makes one concentrate on performance and let all that other BS to the wayside.

    How about Roberto Clemente? Different kind of compelling personality than an Ali, but still interesting no?[/quote]

    How does Shaq have no personality? I’m not talking about just the shenanigans he displayed on Sunday ( link )

    Arguably one of the best center’s ever to play the game and a personality the size of his waistband
    link

    [quote comment=”315406″][quote comment=”315391″][quote comment=”315388″][quote comment=”315378″][quote comment=”315373″]I just have to say: all this stuff in ONE blog post is…remarkable.

    The DIY’s are charming. And that DePaul logo takes the cake.

    No doubt about it, A-Rod’s a dull one. But then, there have been very few superstar athletes in my memory with much to offer in the way of charisma or truly compelling personalities. There’s Muhammed Ali. Who else?[/quote]

    Shaq
    Charles Barkley
    Lebron James
    Dwight Howard
    Dwanye Wade
    Gary Payton
    Peyton Manning (but maybe that’s just because he is in 500 commercials)
    Chad Johnson
    T.O.
    David Wells[/quote]

    It’s all subjective, of course, but I don’t find any of those particularly interesting personalities.[/quote]
    To me, Ali is the rare combo of athlete at the absolute pinnacle of their game and with the personality to go with it.

    Those NBA guys, with the exception of Barkley, don’t even come close (and I would argue that Barkley’s status as a player was a tad overrated). At least not at this moment in time. But even past greats, Bird, Magic, MJ, etc weren’t really explosive personalities.

    Look at hockey, Gretzky, Mario, Sid, nothing really.

    What about Tiger Woods? He could quite possibly be the most boring personality in all of sports!

    There’s something about that next level of greatness that I guess makes one concentrate on performance and let all that other BS to the wayside.

    How about Roberto Clemente? Different kind of compelling personality than an Ali, but still interesting no?[/quote]

    How does Shaq have no personality? I’m not talking about just the shenanigans he displayed on Sunday (link)

    Arguably one of the best center’s ever to play the game and a personality the size of his waistband
    link

    link

    [quote comment=”315404″]I hope these Do It Yourselfers know that they’re putting a bunch of Burmese and Thai kids out of work!

    Some very good DIY work posted. I wish that I had even a clue about this creative world, but in my 34 years on Earth I have yet to be within three feet of a sewing machine. I did make a Joe Theisman facemask out of licorice and tin foil. Only took my three days.

    Is it just me, or does the demon look like he’s dropping a deuce in the hoop in the old DePaul logo? All he needs is a copy of the Sporting News.[/quote]
    That’s a good point! His rump really should be on the opposite side of the rim from his feet if we’re too believe that he’s really sitting on it. Either that, or he’s much wider than he looks.

    Nonetheless, that’s a fantastic logo, and I suppose the toilet pose is better for the balance of the image.

    [quote comment=”315401″][quote comment=”315396″]
    I always pronounced it teebz-EH?[/quote]

    Beauty, eh? LOL[/quote]
    Slightly off-topic, but I really enjoyed your take on the firing of Therrien Teebz (post titled Changing of the Guard).

    Nice to get a fresh perspective outside of the city on this.

    I liked Therrien and feel bad for him and feel he was somewhat of a scapegoat, but the points you make clearly paint a different picture in that they question what had really done to make things positive last year, etc.

    That being said, I still think the team let him down (up to and including #87) and when that’s the case, you don’t fire the players, you fire the coach. I’m guessing GM Ray Shero’s time on the hot seat will begin very soon. The argument is being made that Shero’s “success” was with players Craig Patrick signed, developed, acquired.

    I do give props for Therrien being totally classy in interviews with the PG, KDKA and ESPN Radio 1250. Although he said he was emotional and shocked by the decision, he did not seem bitter, just disappointed.

    I’ll miss him, if for anything, some really entertaining press conferences. This one was the best!

    link

    [quote comment=”315407″]Regarding that county logo design vote. This Texas county just looked to the NFL for inspiration on their logo:

    link

    Bizarre, considering that the visual inspiration is pretty unique to the Pacific Northwest. Doesn’t really work in Texas.

    [quote comment=”315408″][quote comment=”315406″][quote comment=”315391″][quote comment=”315388″][quote comment=”315378″][quote comment=”315373″]I just have to say: all this stuff in ONE blog post is…remarkable.

    The DIY’s are charming. And that DePaul logo takes the cake.

    No doubt about it, A-Rod’s a dull one. But then, there have been very few superstar athletes in my memory with much to offer in the way of charisma or truly compelling personalities. There’s Muhammed Ali. Who else?[/quote]

    Shaq
    Charles Barkley
    Lebron James
    Dwight Howard
    Dwanye Wade
    Gary Payton
    Peyton Manning (but maybe that’s just because he is in 500 commercials)
    Chad Johnson
    T.O.
    David Wells[/quote]

    It’s all subjective, of course, but I don’t find any of those particularly interesting personalities.[/quote]
    To me, Ali is the rare combo of athlete at the absolute pinnacle of their game and with the personality to go with it.

    Those NBA guys, with the exception of Barkley, don’t even come close (and I would argue that Barkley’s status as a player was a tad overrated). At least not at this moment in time. But even past greats, Bird, Magic, MJ, etc weren’t really explosive personalities.

    Look at hockey, Gretzky, Mario, Sid, nothing really.

    What about Tiger Woods? He could quite possibly be the most boring personality in all of sports!

    There’s something about that next level of greatness that I guess makes one concentrate on performance and let all that other BS to the wayside.

    How about Roberto Clemente? Different kind of compelling personality than an Ali, but still interesting no?[/quote]

    How does Shaq have no personality? I’m not talking about just the shenanigans he displayed on Sunday (link)

    Arguably one of the best center’s ever to play the game and a personality the size of his waistband
    link

    link
    Just my opinion. Don’t get me wrong, I like Shaq a lot. However, coming up with funky nicknames for yourself isn’t the end all (I don’t see anyone naming clinton portis on their lists!).

    I actually heard Dan Patrick on his radio show back when he was on ESPN Radio break it down perfect. To paraphrase: people see Shaq and they see this seven-footer with size 22 feet and huge smile and they think he’s some engaging personality but in my experience he’s one of the worst interviews out there. He really doesn’t say anything when you want to talk about basketball, it’s all about his alteregos and these characters, like he’s a superhero. But ask him to breakdown last night’s game with Houston he doesn’t really give you anything.

    [quote comment=”315373″]No doubt about it, A-Rod’s a dull one. But then, there have been very few superstar athletes in my memory with much to offer in the way of charisma or truly compelling personalities. There’s Muhammed Ali. Who else?[/quote]
    Oh-KAY!

    Baseball “back in the day” had is share of (ahem) “colorful” characters… link, link (natch!), link, and link, all of whom are in the Hall of Fame.

    For more modern-day athletes, how ’bout link?

    Your point is well-taken, though; for all of Micheal Jordan’s charisma on the court, he’s kept his off-court personality pretty darned private. Same goes for Tiger and others.

    [quote comment=”315412″][quote comment=”315408″][quote comment=”315406″][quote comment=”315391″][quote comment=”315388″][quote comment=”315378″][quote comment=”315373″]I just have to say: all this stuff in ONE blog post is…remarkable.

    The DIY’s are charming. And that DePaul logo takes the cake.

    No doubt about it, A-Rod’s a dull one. But then, there have been very few superstar athletes in my memory with much to offer in the way of charisma or truly compelling personalities. There’s Muhammed Ali. Who else?[/quote]

    Shaq
    Charles Barkley
    Lebron James
    Dwight Howard
    Dwanye Wade
    Gary Payton
    Peyton Manning (but maybe that’s just because he is in 500 commercials)
    Chad Johnson
    T.O.
    David Wells[/quote]

    It’s all subjective, of course, but I don’t find any of those particularly interesting personalities.[/quote]
    To me, Ali is the rare combo of athlete at the absolute pinnacle of their game and with the personality to go with it.

    Those NBA guys, with the exception of Barkley, don’t even come close (and I would argue that Barkley’s status as a player was a tad overrated). At least not at this moment in time. But even past greats, Bird, Magic, MJ, etc weren’t really explosive personalities.

    Look at hockey, Gretzky, Mario, Sid, nothing really.

    What about Tiger Woods? He could quite possibly be the most boring personality in all of sports!

    There’s something about that next level of greatness that I guess makes one concentrate on performance and let all that other BS to the wayside.

    How about Roberto Clemente? Different kind of compelling personality than an Ali, but still interesting no?[/quote]

    How does Shaq have no personality? I’m not talking about just the shenanigans he displayed on Sunday (link)

    Arguably one of the best center’s ever to play the game and a personality the size of his waistband
    link

    link
    Just my opinion. Don’t get me wrong, I like Shaq a lot. However, coming up with funky nicknames for yourself isn’t the end all (I don’t see anyone naming clinton portis on their lists!).

    I actually heard Dan Patrick on his radio show back when he was on ESPN Radio break it down perfect. To paraphrase: people see Shaq and they see this seven-footer with size 22 feet and huge smile and they think he’s some engaging personality but in my experience he’s one of the worst interviews out there. He really doesn’t say anything when you want to talk about basketball, it’s all about his alteregos and these characters, like he’s a superhero. But ask him to breakdown last night’s game with Houston he doesn’t really give you anything.[/quote]

    i can see that point, however that is all part of his personality. Much like Portis, Dennis Rodman, and other athletes that appear quirky

    I did a DIY helmet once. I wanted a Seahawks helmet like they had their first year with no logo. All the ones you can buy have the logo on the sides.

    Of course, it was an easy project since I just had to match the silver and get the warning sticker, etc. just right – but I really wanted a plain silver helmet like they had that first season.

    It turned out great!

    [quote]he’s kept his off-court personality pretty darned private.[/quote]

    That’s how it should be!

    [quote comment=”315414″][quote comment=”315412″][quote comment=”315408″][quote comment=”315406″][quote comment=”315391″][quote comment=”315388″][quote comment=”315378″][quote comment=”315373″]I just have to say: all this stuff in ONE blog post is…remarkable.

    The DIY’s are charming. And that DePaul logo takes the cake.

    No doubt about it, A-Rod’s a dull one. But then, there have been very few superstar athletes in my memory with much to offer in the way of charisma or truly compelling personalities. There’s Muhammed Ali. Who else?[/quote]

    Shaq
    Charles Barkley
    Lebron James
    Dwight Howard
    Dwanye Wade
    Gary Payton
    Peyton Manning (but maybe that’s just because he is in 500 commercials)
    Chad Johnson
    T.O.
    David Wells[/quote]

    It’s all subjective, of course, but I don’t find any of those particularly interesting personalities.[/quote]
    To me, Ali is the rare combo of athlete at the absolute pinnacle of their game and with the personality to go with it.

    Those NBA guys, with the exception of Barkley, don’t even come close (and I would argue that Barkley’s status as a player was a tad overrated). At least not at this moment in time. But even past greats, Bird, Magic, MJ, etc weren’t really explosive personalities.

    Look at hockey, Gretzky, Mario, Sid, nothing really.

    What about Tiger Woods? He could quite possibly be the most boring personality in all of sports!

    There’s something about that next level of greatness that I guess makes one concentrate on performance and let all that other BS to the wayside.

    How about Roberto Clemente? Different kind of compelling personality than an Ali, but still interesting no?[/quote]

    How does Shaq have no personality? I’m not talking about just the shenanigans he displayed on Sunday (link)

    Arguably one of the best center’s ever to play the game and a personality the size of his waistband
    link

    link
    Just my opinion. Don’t get me wrong, I like Shaq a lot. However, coming up with funky nicknames for yourself isn’t the end all (I don’t see anyone naming clinton portis on their lists!).

    I actually heard Dan Patrick on his radio show back when he was on ESPN Radio break it down perfect. To paraphrase: people see Shaq and they see this seven-footer with size 22 feet and huge smile and they think he’s some engaging personality but in my experience he’s one of the worst interviews out there. He really doesn’t say anything when you want to talk about basketball, it’s all about his alteregos and these characters, like he’s a superhero. But ask him to breakdown last night’s game with Houston he doesn’t really give you anything.[/quote]

    i can see that point, however that is all part of his personality. Much like Portis, Dennis Rodman, and other athletes that appear quirky[/quote]

    His lack of personality is “all part of his personality”?

    [quote comment=”315410″][quote comment=”315401″][quote comment=”315396″]
    I always pronounced it teebz-EH?[/quote]

    Beauty, eh? LOL[/quote]
    Slightly off-topic, but I really enjoyed your take on the firing of Therrien Teebz (post titled Changing of the Guard).

    Nice to get a fresh perspective outside of the city on this.

    I liked Therrien and feel bad for him and feel he was somewhat of a scapegoat, but the points you make clearly paint a different picture in that they question what had really done to make things positive last year, etc.

    That being said, I still think the team let him down (up to and including #87) and when that’s the case, you don’t fire the players, you fire the coach. I’m guessing GM Ray Shero’s time on the hot seat will begin very soon. The argument is being made that Shero’s “success” was with players Craig Patrick signed, developed, acquired.

    I do give props for Therrien being totally classy in interviews with the PG, KDKA and ESPN Radio 1250. Although he said he was emotional and shocked by the decision, he did not seem bitter, just disappointed.

    I’ll miss him, if for anything, some really entertaining press conferences. This one was the best!

    link

    I agree.

    As stated yesterday, he gave a really good interview on Off The Record on TSN yesterday. He really did sound disappointed that he was fired, but didn’t blame anyone for what happened. As he stated, it was a collection of things this season, and it eventually caught up to the team.

    Personally, I think he’ll get a job somewhere in hockey. He’s a different coach, but he has had a lot of success.

    As for Shero, he’s definitely on the hot seat now. This team has his fingerprints all over it, and if they don’t make the playoffs, things may change. He has too few assets to bring in a high-calibre winger, and not enough depth to weather the storm. While he’s done a good job in keeping everyone in Pittsburgh under the cap, he has a very difficult job for the rest of this season, and into next.

    [quote comment=”315412″][quote comment=”315408″][quote comment=”315406″][quote comment=”315391″][quote comment=”315388″][quote comment=”315378″][quote comment=”315373″]I just have to say: all this stuff in ONE blog post is…remarkable.

    The DIY’s are charming. And that DePaul logo takes the cake.

    No doubt about it, A-Rod’s a dull one. But then, there have been very few superstar athletes in my memory with much to offer in the way of charisma or truly compelling personalities. There’s Muhammed Ali. Who else?[/quote]

    Shaq
    Charles Barkley
    Lebron James
    Dwight Howard
    Dwanye Wade
    Gary Payton
    Peyton Manning (but maybe that’s just because he is in 500 commercials)
    Chad Johnson
    T.O.
    David Wells[/quote]

    It’s all subjective, of course, but I don’t find any of those particularly interesting personalities.[/quote]
    To me, Ali is the rare combo of athlete at the absolute pinnacle of their game and with the personality to go with it.

    Those NBA guys, with the exception of Barkley, don’t even come close (and I would argue that Barkley’s status as a player was a tad overrated). At least not at this moment in time. But even past greats, Bird, Magic, MJ, etc weren’t really explosive personalities.

    Look at hockey, Gretzky, Mario, Sid, nothing really.

    What about Tiger Woods? He could quite possibly be the most boring personality in all of sports!

    There’s something about that next level of greatness that I guess makes one concentrate on performance and let all that other BS to the wayside.

    How about Roberto Clemente? Different kind of compelling personality than an Ali, but still interesting no?[/quote]

    How does Shaq have no personality? I’m not talking about just the shenanigans he displayed on Sunday (link)

    Arguably one of the best center’s ever to play the game and a personality the size of his waistband
    link

    link
    Just my opinion. Don’t get me wrong, I like Shaq a lot. However, coming up with funky nicknames for yourself isn’t the end all (I don’t see anyone naming clinton portis on their lists!).

    I actually heard Dan Patrick on his radio show back when he was on ESPN Radio break it down perfect. To paraphrase: people see Shaq and they see this seven-footer with size 22 feet and huge smile and they think he’s some engaging personality but in my experience he’s one of the worst interviews out there. He really doesn’t say anything when you want to talk about basketball, it’s all about his alteregos and these characters, like he’s a superhero. But ask him to breakdown last night’s game with Houston he doesn’t really give you anything.[/quote]

    i love shaq, but he tries too hard to be cute. know what i mean???

    another ultra-boring personality: tom brady. look at bradshaw though. he’s interesting… probably dumb as a rock (more-so in his football days), but interesting and funny!

    lebron seems to have a good personality.

    ovechkin is fun, but like shaq, i think he tries just a tad bit too hard (not as bad as shaq though).

    I don’t understand why you don’t give credit in the Ticker to users who use screen names. Its one thing to say you won’t post anything from a screen named user because you don’t trust the source, but you do post them. If it’s viable information, than give the person credit. It’s an internet blog for gosh sake, everyone uses screen names. Who’s to say that just because someone lists a first and last name it is their actual name? I’d be more afraid someone is using someone else’s actual real name and posting it on the internet. I just think that if someone provides you with the information, you should credit them no matter what their name is. I mean, what if Madonna or Fergie have some pertinent Uni-related info to share? ;)
    Just my $0.02.

    [quote comment=”315388″][quote comment=”315378″][quote comment=”315373″]I just have to say: all this stuff in ONE blog post is…remarkable.

    The DIY’s are charming. And that DePaul logo takes the cake.

    No doubt about it, A-Rod’s a dull one. But then, there have been very few superstar athletes in my memory with much to offer in the way of charisma or truly compelling personalities. There’s Muhammed Ali. Who else?[/quote]

    Shaq
    Charles Barkley
    Lebron James
    Dwight Howard
    Dwanye Wade
    Gary Payton
    Peyton Manning (but maybe that’s just because he is in 500 commercials)
    Chad Johnson
    T.O.
    David Wells[/quote]

    It’s all subjective, of course, but I don’t find any of those particularly interesting personalities.[/quote]
    I don’t think the question is necessarily INTERESTING personalities, but the existence of a personality at all. From what I gather from Paul’s post, a personality is one thing A-rod lacks.

    despite his apparently muted personality (and no, he’s obviously not on par with cassius), tiger possesses both rapier wit and the often underappreciated and understated use of sarcasm seldom seen in a professional athlete…listen to him sometime, in a full interview and not your 2 second SC soundbyte…dude’s hilarious

    [quote comment=”315420″]It’s an internet blog for gosh sake, everyone uses screen names.[/quote]

    To my mind, that’s one of the problems with the internet. I’d never impose a rule that people had to use a real name to post a comment, but I wish more people did.

    I my Ticker rule a bit arbitrary? Arguably. But it’s my site, and I’ll set my rules.

    [quote comment=”315417″][quote comment=”315414″][quote comment=”315412″][quote comment=”315408″][quote comment=”315406″][quote comment=”315391″][quote comment=”315388″][quote comment=”315378″][quote comment=”315373″]I just have to say: all this stuff in ONE blog post is…remarkable.

    The DIY’s are charming. And that DePaul logo takes the cake.

    No doubt about it, A-Rod’s a dull one. But then, there have been very few superstar athletes in my memory with much to offer in the way of charisma or truly compelling personalities. There’s Muhammed Ali. Who else?[/quote]

    Shaq
    Charles Barkley
    Lebron James
    Dwight Howard
    Dwanye Wade
    Gary Payton
    Peyton Manning (but maybe that’s just because he is in 500 commercials)
    Chad Johnson
    T.O.
    David Wells[/quote]

    It’s all subjective, of course, but I don’t find any of those particularly interesting personalities.[/quote]
    To me, Ali is the rare combo of athlete at the absolute pinnacle of their game and with the personality to go with it.

    Those NBA guys, with the exception of Barkley, don’t even come close (and I would argue that Barkley’s status as a player was a tad overrated). At least not at this moment in time. But even past greats, Bird, Magic, MJ, etc weren’t really explosive personalities.

    Look at hockey, Gretzky, Mario, Sid, nothing really.

    What about Tiger Woods? He could quite possibly be the most boring personality in all of sports!

    There’s something about that next level of greatness that I guess makes one concentrate on performance and let all that other BS to the wayside.

    How about Roberto Clemente? Different kind of compelling personality than an Ali, but still interesting no?[/quote]

    How does Shaq have no personality? I’m not talking about just the shenanigans he displayed on Sunday (link)

    Arguably one of the best center’s ever to play the game and a personality the size of his waistband
    link

    link
    Just my opinion. Don’t get me wrong, I like Shaq a lot. However, coming up with funky nicknames for yourself isn’t the end all (I don’t see anyone naming clinton portis on their lists!).

    I actually heard Dan Patrick on his radio show back when he was on ESPN Radio break it down perfect. To paraphrase: people see Shaq and they see this seven-footer with size 22 feet and huge smile and they think he’s some engaging personality but in my experience he’s one of the worst interviews out there. He really doesn’t say anything when you want to talk about basketball, it’s all about his alteregos and these characters, like he’s a superhero. But ask him to breakdown last night’s game with Houston he doesn’t really give you anything.[/quote]

    i can see that point, however that is all part of his personality. Much like Portis, Dennis Rodman, and other athletes that appear quirky[/quote]

    His lack of personality is “all part of his personality”?[/quote]

    Sorry – his alteregos and these characters – that’s what I was referring to.

    With A-rod, I notice gum smacking arrogance. Like he’s entitled to something.

    With Shaq, I notice a playful nature. Someone who truly enjoys what he does and has fun with it. His “lack” of interview skills (according to Dan Patrick) do not correlate with a lack of personality.

    [quote comment=”315396″][quote comment=\”315394\”][quote comment=\”315389\”]
    How is Teebz pronounced? I used to read it as TEE-biz, but recently I started thinking it may be one syllable or something else entirely.[/quote]

    One syllable. TEEB-zzz. Like a plural \”Teeb\”, only with more buzz. LOL

    At least that\’s how people know me pronounce it. ;o)[/quote]

    I always pronounced it teebz-EH?[/quote]

    (Doing best Sidney Poitier impression) They call him Mr. Teebz.

    Fair enough, but I don’t consider his particular collection of quirks to be much of a personality. They appear far too studied to me, too run-through-the-marketing-mill. Practiced and focus-group tested.

    Like his supposed “feud” with Kobe, worked up to sell tickets. Too close to pro wrestling for me.

    Larry’s 1942 throwback DIY jersey is awesome!

    The number font looks a little thicker and squatter than in the old photo, but still, I love it! As a Rutgers guy who loves red, white, and black jerseys, my hat is off; these need to make a comeback!

    [quote comment=”315410″]I’m guessing GM Ray Shero’s time on the hot seat will begin very soon. The argument is being made that Shero’s “success” was with players Craig Patrick signed, developed, acquired.[/quote]
    lol…

    Shero’s success (and the success of the Penguins) came from sucking so bad for so many years with incompetent ownership, management, and such a pathetic fan following that didn’t send the message that the team needed to strive for more that they were in the position to draft Fleury, Crosby, Malkin, and Staal in the top 5 in consecutive years, not to mention the early 2nd round talent they were able to acquire…

    They were so bad they didn’t have a choice but to get better. They cherry-picked good draft picks for so many years by underachieving that they had to get really good. It had nothing to do with good management, it was the exact opposite.

    [quote comment=”315429″][quote comment=”315410″]I’m guessing GM Ray Shero’s time on the hot seat will begin very soon. The argument is being made that Shero’s “success” was with players Craig Patrick signed, developed, acquired.[/quote]
    lol…

    Shero’s success (and the success of the Penguins) came from sucking so bad for so many years with incompetent ownership, management, and such a pathetic fan following that didn’t send the message that the team needed to strive for more that they were in the position to draft Fleury, Crosby, Malkin, and Staal in the top 5 in consecutive years, not to mention the early 2nd round talent they were able to acquire…

    They were so bad they didn’t have a choice but to get better. They cherry-picked good draft picks for so many years by underachieving that they had to get really good. It had nothing to do with good management, it was the exact opposite.[/quote]

    Tell that to Islanders fans. LOL

    [quote comment=”315430″][quote comment=”315429″][quote comment=”315410″]I’m guessing GM Ray Shero’s time on the hot seat will begin very soon. The argument is being made that Shero’s “success” was with players Craig Patrick signed, developed, acquired.[/quote]
    lol…

    Shero’s success (and the success of the Penguins) came from sucking so bad for so many years with incompetent ownership, management, and such a pathetic fan following that didn’t send the message that the team needed to strive for more that they were in the position to draft Fleury, Crosby, Malkin, and Staal in the top 5 in consecutive years, not to mention the early 2nd round talent they were able to acquire…

    They were so bad they didn’t have a choice but to get better. They cherry-picked good draft picks for so many years by underachieving that they had to get really good. It had nothing to do with good management, it was the exact opposite.[/quote]

    Tell that to Islanders fans. LOL[/quote]

    For the record: The Penguins didn’t suck as long as the Islanders…

    PS: When the Ilsanders move to KC, will they become the INlanders?

    Atlanta or Phoenix will be the first franchise(s) to move, not NYI.Theres too much money in New York for that to happen.

    Kansas City Coyotes/Thrashers? ouch that sounds bad

    [quote comment=”315431″]
    For the record: The Penguins didn’t suck as long as the Islanders…

    PS: When the Ilsanders move to KC, will they become the INlanders?[/quote]

    This is the 25th year of ineptitude on Long Island, isn’t it? Shouldn’t they have a patch for that?

    If they move to Kansas City, they’ll be the 30th AHL team. KC cannot support an NHL team, especially when no one showed up to watch the Blues play there. The Islanders are worse than the Blues.

    [quote comment=”315424″][quote comment=”315420″]It’s an internet blog for gosh sake, everyone uses screen names.[/quote]

    To my mind, that’s one of the problems with the internet. I’d never impose a rule that people had to use a real name to post a comment, but I wish more people did.

    I my Ticker rule a bit arbitrary? Arguably. But it’s my site, and I’ll set my rules.[/quote]
    Yeah, but to some folks that screen name is part of their compelling personality!!! From this point forward, I am requesting to be referred to as “The Big Kek-istotle” for any ticker submissions I make.

    Seriously though, the screen name versus real name debate is one of the great Internet debates of our time. My take on it is that it’s a case-by-case basis as far as the board, blog, etc.

    I think a lot of us are comfortable in the UW environment and not sound cheesy but I really do feel like I know some of you guys despite having never met in person.

    However, I know some people are more private and that’s their perrogative and I have nothing against that. I personally always use my name in one form or another because I don’t ever want to be considered saying something and “hiding behind a screen name”. Conversely, I would never accuse anyone of such.

    As to Paul’s rule in the ticker, while I don’t see the harm in crediting someone for sending an article or photo, I totally get this. This blog is electronic media and can be used by other outlets as a source. It’s a reflection of Paul and I don’t blame him for not wanting to put names like Johnny Poontang in the entry!

    Paul’s pretty good at giving credit where it’s due…and I know there have been instances where someone submits something and he says something like “someone who asked me not to give their name”, etc sent this note…so I see no harm in this arbitrary rule.

    [quote comment=”315433″][quote]Tell that to Islanders Scouts fans. LOL [/quote]

    (fixed)[/quote]
    Wait… so now we’re talking about the NJ Devils?

    [quote comment=”315429″][quote comment=”315410″]I’m guessing GM Ray Shero’s time on the hot seat will begin very soon. The argument is being made that Shero’s “success” was with players Craig Patrick signed, developed, acquired.[/quote]
    lol…

    Shero’s success (and the success of the Penguins) came from sucking so bad for so many years with incompetent ownership, management, and such a pathetic fan following that didn’t send the message that the team needed to strive for more that they were in the position to draft Fleury, Crosby, Malkin, and Staal in the top 5 in consecutive years, not to mention the early 2nd round talent they were able to acquire…

    They were so bad they didn’t have a choice but to get better. They cherry-picked good draft picks for so many years by underachieving that they had to get really good. It had nothing to do with good management, it was the exact opposite.[/quote]

    hmmm… wasn’t aware that shero drafted “Fleury, Crosby, Malkin, and Staal”

    …craig who?!?!

    and damn that shero for never making any moves at the trade deadline to help us!!! thats just bad management!

    and while i’m at it, damn that “pathetic fan following”! worst in the league if you ask me!

    [quote comment=”315432″]Atlanta or Phoenix will be the first franchise(s) to move, not NYI.Theres too much money in New York for that to happen.

    Kansas City Coyotes/Thrashers? ouch that sounds bad[/quote]
    Phoenix, Atlanta, NYI, and Florida should all relocate and/or merge… The fanbases in these locations are pretty pathetic, and they’ve all been there long enough to be labled a failure. And, in the end, the teams should all move to Canada. Merge the Yotes and Thrash and move them back to Winnipeg to become the 2nd generation Jets and merge Florida and NYI and move them to Quebec City to become the 2nd generation Nordiques, assuming they could get permission from Colorado.

    [quote comment=”315437″][quote comment=”315433″][quote]Tell that to Islanders Scouts fans. LOL [/quote]

    (fixed)[/quote]
    Wait… so now we’re talking about the NJ Devils?[/quote]

    nice…yeah…the scouts begat the rockies who begat the devils

    but, do they still “own” that name, or, when the isles move there, will they be able to “appropriate” the former franchise’s monicker a la the tennessee titans taking on the former AFL franchise of the same name?

    [quote comment=”315404″]
    Is it just me, or does the demon look like he’s dropping a deuce in the hoop in the old DePaul logo?[/quote]
    Duh. He couldn’t have dropped a trey. The logo was created before the advent of the 3-pointer in the NCAA.
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
    I always thought that logo sucked when I was a kid, but it’s gorgeous compared to the crap they’re using today. The demon head on the shorts and the horrible font on the jersey link what would link.

    [quote comment=”315438″]hmmm… wasn’t aware that shero drafted “Fleury, Crosby, Malkin, and Staal”

    …craig who?!?!

    and damn that shero for never making any moves at the trade deadline to help us!!! thats just bad management!

    and while i’m at it, damn that “pathetic fan following”! worst in the league if you ask me![/quote]
    LOL… please, I KNOW you’re not praising Craig Ramsey for allowing the team to be so bad for so long that they could draft those 4 in subsequent years…

    And as for the pathetic fan following… the Pens were bottom 2 in the league in attendance for about 5 straight years before they showed signs of life in 2006… And saying 5 straight years might be a drastic understatement… Yes, the following was pathetic, it was so bad, they were the ones being touted to move to KC, and a new arena was only a secondary reason for the move. Would have happened, too, had Bettman not intervened.

    [quote comment=”315442″][quote comment=”315438″]hmmm… wasn’t aware that shero drafted “Fleury, Crosby, Malkin, and Staal”

    …craig who?!?!

    and damn that shero for never making any moves at the trade deadline to help us!!! thats just bad management!

    and while i’m at it, damn that “pathetic fan following”! worst in the league if you ask me![/quote]
    LOL… please, I KNOW you’re not praising Craig Ramsey for allowing the team to be so bad for so long that they could draft those 4 in subsequent years…

    And as for the pathetic fan following… the Pens were bottom 2 in the league in attendance for about 5 straight years before they showed signs of life in 2006… And saying 5 straight years might be a drastic understatement… Yes, the following was pathetic, it was so bad, they were the ones being touted to move to KC, and a new arena was only a secondary reason for the move. Would have happened, too, had Bettman not intervened.[/quote]

    ha! amazing! post 109 AND 112 are EXACTLY RIGHT! nevermind then… sorry to argue with a true fan of the game!

    [quote comment=”315429″][quote comment=”315410″]I’m guessing GM Ray Shero’s time on the hot seat will begin very soon. The argument is being made that Shero’s “success” was with players Craig Patrick signed, developed, acquired.[/quote]
    lol…

    Shero’s success (and the success of the Penguins) came from sucking so bad for so many years with incompetent ownership, management, and such a pathetic fan following that didn’t send the message that the team needed to strive for more that they were in the position to draft Fleury, Crosby, Malkin, and Staal in the top 5 in consecutive years, not to mention the early 2nd round talent they were able to acquire…

    They were so bad they didn’t have a choice but to get better. They cherry-picked good draft picks for so many years by underachieving that they had to get really good. It had nothing to do with good management, it was the exact opposite.[/quote]
    Fair enough….but I did use quotes around the word success.

    I’m pretty sure I went down this road before, but I guess I’ll go again. How is the fan base pathetic, even during some lean years before the lost season the attendance was pretty stable.

    link

    Also, are you mixing up eras? I’m not going to deny that the organization sucked it hard in the early 80s and purposely lost games to take Mario, but recently I wouldn’t say that. Making the playoffs nine seasons in a row after winning back-to-back Cups doesn’t equal “sucking so bad for so many years” to me.

    Missing the playoffs leading up to the lockout and then the season hockey came back were dry spells for sure, but I’m sure a lot of frans of a lot of other teams (in all sports) would be happy with “dry spells” of that nature.

    And as for the pathetic fan following… the ISALNDERS are bottom 2 in the league in attendance for about 5 straight years and if they they showed signs of life in 2006… And saying 25 straight years might be a drastic understatement… Yes, the following is pathetic, it so bad, they are the ones being touted to move to KC, and a new arena was only a secondary reason for the move. Will happen, too, and Bettman will not intervene.[/quote]

    -Isn’t that what you really meant?

    Now I know what its like to write for the NY POST!!

    The Islanders ARE the 30th AHL team…most of their line up is Bridgeport…what will their UNI’s look like when they move?

    Will they keep the Banners in the Collesium to fade like they do in Hartford?

    [quote comment=”315442″][quote comment=”315438″]hmmm… wasn’t aware that shero drafted “Fleury, Crosby, Malkin, and Staal”

    …craig who?!?!

    and damn that shero for never making any moves at the trade deadline to help us!!! thats just bad management!

    and while i’m at it, damn that “pathetic fan following”! worst in the league if you ask me![/quote]
    LOL… please, I KNOW you’re not praising Craig Ramsey for allowing the team to be so bad for so long that they could draft those 4 in subsequent years…

    And as for the pathetic fan following… the Pens were bottom 2 in the league in attendance for about 5 straight years before they showed signs of life in 2006… And saying 5 straight years might be a drastic understatement… Yes, the following was pathetic, it was so bad, they were the ones being touted to move to KC, and a new arena was only a secondary reason for the move. Would have happened, too, had Bettman not intervened.[/quote]
    ….the f–k is Craig Ramsey? Wrong Craig.

    [quote comment=”315447″][quote comment=”315442″][quote comment=”315438″]hmmm… wasn’t aware that shero drafted “Fleury, Crosby, Malkin, and Staal”

    …craig who?!?!

    and damn that shero for never making any moves at the trade deadline to help us!!! thats just bad management!

    and while i’m at it, damn that “pathetic fan following”! worst in the league if you ask me![/quote]
    LOL… please, I KNOW you’re not praising Craig Ramsey for allowing the team to be so bad for so long that they could draft those 4 in subsequent years…

    And as for the pathetic fan following… the Pens were bottom 2 in the league in attendance for about 5 straight years before they showed signs of life in 2006… And saying 5 straight years might be a drastic understatement… Yes, the following was pathetic, it was so bad, they were the ones being touted to move to KC, and a new arena was only a secondary reason for the move. Would have happened, too, had Bettman not intervened.[/quote]
    ….the f–k is Craig Ramsey? Wrong Craig.[/quote]

    …exactly!

    [quote]Will they keep the Banners in the Collesium to fade like they do in Hartford?[/quote]

    right next the the ABA nets championship banners

    I was @ the Islanders vs Bruin in Mid-January and to be perfectly honest, I felt no energy and the Bruins fans were more loud than the Islanders…how the hell does a NY team allow Boston fans to be more loud than them? Pathetic…

    I feel more life in a Albany River Rats or Hartford Wolf Pack or hell….even the Soundtigers have more life than the Islanders and their fans…

    [quote comment=”315447″][quote comment=”315442″][quote comment=”315438″]hmmm… wasn’t aware that shero drafted “Fleury, Crosby, Malkin, and Staal”

    …craig who?!?!

    and damn that shero for never making any moves at the trade deadline to help us!!! thats just bad management!

    and while i’m at it, damn that “pathetic fan following”! worst in the league if you ask me![/quote]
    LOL… please, I KNOW you’re not praising Craig Ramsey for allowing the team to be so bad for so long that they could draft those 4 in subsequent years…

    And as for the pathetic fan following… the Pens were bottom 2 in the league in attendance for about 5 straight years before they showed signs of life in 2006… And saying 5 straight years might be a drastic understatement… Yes, the following was pathetic, it was so bad, they were the ones being touted to move to KC, and a new arena was only a secondary reason for the move. Would have happened, too, had Bettman not intervened.[/quote]
    ….the f–k is Craig Ramsey? Wrong Craig.[/quote]

    Former NHL left winger. Decent player – 252G + 420A over 1070 games. Won the Selke in 1985. Currently an assitant coach with the Bruins (and a darn fine coach, too). LOL

    [quote comment=”315427″]Fair enough, but I don’t consider his particular collection of quirks to be much of a personality. They appear far too studied to me, too run-through-the-marketing-mill. Practiced and focus-group tested.

    Like his supposed “feud” with Kobe, worked up to sell tickets. Too close to pro wrestling for me.[/quote]

    That’s a very real possibility. However, I would rather listen to Shaq or Rodman than Arod, who has always come off arrogant…he just reeks of it. No reactions when on camera and just acts bored

    link

    I believe one of the most genuine examples of this (from someone who comes from a team sport) is Griffey Jr.

    So which would you rather have, Shaq from your example or A-rod?

    [quote comment=”315439″][quote comment=”315432″]Atlanta or Phoenix will be the first franchise(s) to move, not NYI.Theres too much money in New York for that to happen.

    Kansas City Coyotes/Thrashers? ouch that sounds bad[/quote]
    Phoenix, Atlanta, NYI, and Florida should all relocate and/or merge… [/quote]

    My idea for the florida teams is to merge them into one and play their home games throughout the state with the majority played in miami and tampa, with fewer dates played in jacksonville, orlando, a game or two in tallahassee and ft myers, etc. Then it would become a true florida team, and you could probably guarantee sellouts throughout the season.

    [quote comment=”315455″][quote comment=”315439″][quote comment=”315432″]Atlanta or Phoenix will be the first franchise(s) to move, not NYI.Theres too much money in New York for that to happen.

    Kansas City Coyotes/Thrashers? ouch that sounds bad[/quote]
    Phoenix, Atlanta, NYI, and Florida should all relocate and/or merge… [/quote]

    My idea for the florida teams is to merge them into one and play their home games throughout the state with the majority played in miami and tampa, with fewer dates played in jacksonville, orlando, a game or two in tallahassee and ft myers, etc. Then it would become a true florida team, and you could probably guarantee sellouts throughout the season.[/quote]

    Logistically, that is a nightmare for arenas. Will never happen.

    Has their ever been proto-types for Franchises that were threatening to move but didn’t?

    and I found this…. link

    Why can’t we just contract 3-4 teams and make everyone happier?

    … A Colorado county is letting its residents vote on whether to adopt a new country logo design (as forwarded by Stan Bush). …

    -SARCASM- I don’t know that I would want one COUNTY deciding what a whole COUNTRY’S logo might be???-/SARCASM-

    Just a proofreading note.

    [quote comment=”315454″][quote comment=”315452″] Currently an assitant coach[/quote]

    ASSISTANT. Hukd en fonix werkd fer me.[/quote]
    Ha! I thought the name sounded familiar, just knew it wasn’t the right name in the context of the post.

    [quote comment=”315453″][quote comment=”315427″]Fair enough, but I don’t consider his particular collection of quirks to be much of a personality. They appear far too studied to me, too run-through-the-marketing-mill. Practiced and focus-group tested.

    Like his supposed “feud” with Kobe, worked up to sell tickets. Too close to pro wrestling for me.[/quote]

    That’s a very real possibility. However, I would rather listen to Shaq or Rodman than Arod, who has always come off arrogant…he just reeks of it. No reactions when on camera and just acts bored

    link

    I believe one of the most genuine examples of this (from someone who comes from a team sport) is Griffey Jr.

    So which would you rather have, Shaq from your example or A-rod?[/quote]
    Those are the only two choices?

    [quote comment=”315359″][quote comment=”315355″][quote comment=”315354″][quote comment=”315353″]Did anyone catch the Purdue game last night?

    They finally broke out the new uniforms. The design itself was not too bad,but the shorts most of them were wearing were ridiculous. The shorts that #23 wore looked like they would have been way too big for Shaq.. Sorry…i don’t have a picture to link.[/quote]

    link

    link[/quote]

    Has anyone seen Iowa Uniforms yet? I wonder if the reason for the mid season debut is that the uniforms werent ready for the start of the season.[/quote]

    I bet the real reason for the delayed introduction is shipment from China. Since the olympics a lot of product has been delayed because of the factory shutdowns.[/quote]

    I would venture to guess that the Olympics did create a back log but the real reason they were delayed likely has more to do with Chinese New Year which just recently passed…believe me, from a manufacturing side it is a nightmare getting anything done this time of year which is really tough when you realize that the College Baseball/Softball and MLB seasons are just ramping up

    All this talk about Shaq’s personality is funny because I am actually going to a Boy’s and Girl’s club charity dinner honoring Shaq on Saturday night. Hopefully I’ll get some first hand experience on how he acts in those situations.

    [quote comment=”315452″][quote comment=”315447″][quote comment=”315442″][quote comment=”315438″]hmmm… wasn’t aware that shero drafted “Fleury, Crosby, Malkin, and Staal”

    …craig who?!?!

    and damn that shero for never making any moves at the trade deadline to help us!!! thats just bad management!

    and while i’m at it, damn that “pathetic fan following”! worst in the league if you ask me![/quote]
    LOL… please, I KNOW you’re not praising Craig Ramsey for allowing the team to be so bad for so long that they could draft those 4 in subsequent years…

    And as for the pathetic fan following… the Pens were bottom 2 in the league in attendance for about 5 straight years before they showed signs of life in 2006… And saying 5 straight years might be a drastic understatement… Yes, the following was pathetic, it was so bad, they were the ones being touted to move to KC, and a new arena was only a secondary reason for the move. Would have happened, too, had Bettman not intervened.[/quote]
    ….the f–k is Craig Ramsey? Wrong Craig.[/quote]

    Former NHL left winger. Decent player – 252G + 420A over 1070 games. Won the Selke in 1985. Currently an assitant coach with the Bruins (and a darn fine coach, too). LOL[/quote]
    lol… I knew I had that screwed up after I wrote it, but I don’t care…

    [quote comment=”315463″][quote comment=”315453″][quote comment=”315427″]Fair enough, but I don’t consider his particular collection of quirks to be much of a personality. They appear far too studied to me, too run-through-the-marketing-mill. Practiced and focus-group tested.

    Like his supposed “feud” with Kobe, worked up to sell tickets. Too close to pro wrestling for me.[/quote]

    That’s a very real possibility. However, I would rather listen to Shaq or Rodman than Arod, who has always come off arrogant…he just reeks of it. No reactions when on camera and just acts bored

    link

    I believe one of the most genuine examples of this (from someone who comes from a team sport) is Griffey Jr.

    So which would you rather have, Shaq from your example or A-rod?[/quote]
    Those are the only two choices?[/quote]

    Of course not…

    One of my biggest football pet peeves is the number of decals on the back of your average helmet. Jersey number, league logo, deceased player tributes, warning sticker, etc. I’ve also never understood why the warning sticker is on the outside of the helmet instead of the inside – it looks awful on the outside.

    to go along with the SWAC bit, I go to MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe, Kansas, and we just signed a D-1 style deal with Adidas. From what I know, we are the first NAIA school with such a deal.

    [quote comment=”315471″]Anybody know why the Lightning wore white at home last night and let the Blackhawks wear black?

    link
    They did that so Uni Watch readers could see that there are also link, of course (there are two decent pictures in that gallery).

    Seriously, it’s a good question. This game’s been on the Hawks’ official link since they put it out, so it’s been planned for quite some time. Plus, they’re wearing them for this entire road trip (tomorrow in Miami and Saturday in Dallas).

    [quote comment=”315469″]I’ve also never understood why the warning sticker is on the outside of the helmet instead of the inside – it looks awful on the outside.[/quote]

    The answer to that is easy. If the sticker was not on the outside, the first player to suffer a major head injury would sue the manufacturer, claiming that the warning was not in an open and obvious location on the helmet.

    Of course, said player would sue the manufacturer no matter where the warning is, but at least the presence of the warning sticker on the exterior provides the manufacturer with another defense to assert.

    Nice work by Mark and Steve, I am the one who did the Ohio State throwbacks.

    I am also a helmet collector from gumballs to some full sized. Before I knew there were other helmet collectors and before I had computers. I would cut out pictures from old Athlons or SI’s of helmet logos and put those on gumball helmets I painted for about 30 colleges and pro teams.

    I enjoyed the recent pennant DIY column and may give that a try. Making some mini pennants. I just enjoy the Uniwatch and seeing what the many talented people can do.

    And now a really old picture of me as a kid with my Pirate tshirt. Now this was an iron on. I have no idea where I got it.Maybe with a fill up of gas. I also had my mom put it on a red sweatshirt but that was harder to see in a color pic I had.

    link

    Absolutely nothing to do with unis, but here are some more athletes with personalities, mostly from the olden days:

    Dock Ellis
    Joe Namath
    Bill Lee
    Bill Walton
    that receiver from the Bengals (’70s era) who played classical piano
    Jayson Williams
    Duane Thomas
    Art Donovan
    Mark Fidrych
    Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
    Reggie Jackson

    …which is just scratching the surface, I imagine. Granted, sometimes “has personality” is a euphemism for “is a kook.”

    Does anyone know why mlbshop.com is selling authentic Milwaukee Brewers BP caps that have gold as the color on that weird panel by the ears…but the players are wearing a different version with dark blue blending in on that weird panel? Personally, I like the change. I just wish they went back to the Wisconsin outline behind the “M” for their BP hat logo instead of just the “M”. Here is an example of the old BP hats:
    link

    Current Brewers BP cap for sale at MLB Shop:
    link

    Pics from Spring Training 2009:
    link

    link

    [quote comment=”315474″][quote comment=”315469″]I’ve also never understood why the warning sticker is on the outside of the helmet instead of the inside – it looks awful on the outside.[/quote]

    The answer to that is easy. If the sticker was not on the outside, the first player to suffer a major head injury would sue the manufacturer, claiming that the warning was not in an open and obvious location on the helmet.

    Of course, said player would sue the manufacturer no matter where the warning is, but at least the presence of the warning sticker on the exterior provides the manufacturer with another defense to assert.[/quote]
    I understand a warning sticker on anything sold to the public – no way to control who uses the product, so you need to spread a wide net.

    But we’re talking about a limited and controlled group of people. Certainly they could circulate a warning to players, or have the team do so, that doesn’t involve a sticker cluttering up every single helmet.

    [quote comment=”315425″][quote comment=”315417″][quote comment=”315414″][quote comment=”315412″][quote comment=”315408″][quote comment=”315406″][quote comment=”315391″][quote comment=”315388″][quote comment=”315378″][quote comment=”315373″]I just have to say: all this stuff in ONE blog post is…remarkable.

    The DIY’s are charming. And that DePaul logo takes the cake.

    No doubt about it, A-Rod’s a dull one. But then, there have been very few superstar athletes in my memory with much to offer in the way of charisma or truly compelling personalities. There’s Muhammed Ali. Who else?[/quote]

    Shaq
    Charles Barkley
    Lebron James
    Dwight Howard
    Dwanye Wade
    Gary Payton
    Peyton Manning (but maybe that’s just because he is in 500 commercials)
    Chad Johnson
    T.O.
    David Wells[/quote]

    It’s all subjective, of course, but I don’t find any of those particularly interesting personalities.[/quote]
    To me, Ali is the rare combo of athlete at the absolute pinnacle of their game and with the personality to go with it.

    Those NBA guys, with the exception of Barkley, don’t even come close (and I would argue that Barkley’s status as a player was a tad overrated). At least not at this moment in time. But even past greats, Bird, Magic, MJ, etc weren’t really explosive personalities.

    Look at hockey, Gretzky, Mario, Sid, nothing really.

    What about Tiger Woods? He could quite possibly be the most boring personality in all of sports!

    There’s something about that next level of greatness that I guess makes one concentrate on performance and let all that other BS to the wayside.

    How about Roberto Clemente? Different kind of compelling personality than an Ali, but still interesting no?[/quote]

    How does Shaq have no personality? I’m not talking about just the shenanigans he displayed on Sunday (link)

    Arguably one of the best center’s ever to play the game and a personality the size of his waistband
    link

    link
    Just my opinion. Don’t get me wrong, I like Shaq a lot. However, coming up with funky nicknames for yourself isn’t the end all (I don’t see anyone naming clinton portis on their lists!).

    I actually heard Dan Patrick on his radio show back when he was on ESPN Radio break it down perfect. To paraphrase: people see Shaq and they see this seven-footer with size 22 feet and huge smile and they think he’s some engaging personality but in my experience he’s one of the worst interviews out there. He really doesn’t say anything when you want to talk about basketball, it’s all about his alteregos and these characters, like he’s a superhero. But ask him to breakdown last night’s game with Houston he doesn’t really give you anything.[/quote]

    i can see that point, however that is all part of his personality. Much like Portis, Dennis Rodman, and other athletes that appear quirky[/quote]

    His lack of personality is “all part of his personality”?[/quote]

    Sorry – his alteregos and these characters – that’s what I was referring to.

    With A-rod, I notice gum smacking arrogance. Like he’s entitled to something.

    With Shaq, I notice a playful nature. Someone who truly enjoys what he does and has fun with it. His “lack” of interview skills (according to Dan Patrick) do not correlate with a lack of personality.[/quote]

    Agreed. I thought the original question was to think of players with either “charisma” or a “truly compelling personality.”

    Regardless of how un-insightful he may be when discussing the actual game, there is no denying Shaq has a TON of charisma. That was the basis for the entire list I mentioned, I thought of players who I thought had charisma.

    Great job on the Bills helmet! I can appreciate the amount of work that went into it. About two years ago I did the same thing with a Cowboys helmet. I, too, was fed up with the ridiculous prices demanded for an “authentic” helmet. I decided to buy a silver helmet, Cowboys decals, and my favorite facemask (all online) and put the thing together myself. It took me about three weeks of work, but the finished product brought me a great sense of satisfaction. BTW, I also had to get the correct safety decal because the white one irked me to no end.

    To all the haters of the Islanders:

    They’re not going anywhere, until 2015 at the earliest. They have the worst arena lease in the NHL and it’s ironclad against the team moving before then.

    This talk about the warning label reminds me that when I purchased the helmet originally, it had a large white warning label with black letters. It was a major pain to take off.

    Also interesting is that the Bills logo always hides part of the warning- not sure if any other teams would.

    Thanks for all the compliments today, folks- I wish I had “before” pictures but that was long before Uni Watch.

    [quote comment=”315479″][quote comment=”315425″][quote comment=”315417″][quote comment=”315414″][quote comment=”315412″][quote comment=”315408″][quote comment=”315406″][quote comment=”315391″][quote comment=”315388″][quote comment=”315378″][quote comment=”315373″]I just have to say: all this stuff in ONE blog post is…remarkable.

    The DIY’s are charming. And that DePaul logo takes the cake.

    No doubt about it, A-Rod’s a dull one. But then, there have been very few superstar athletes in my memory with much to offer in the way of charisma or truly compelling personalities. There’s Muhammed Ali. Who else?[/quote]

    Shaq
    Charles Barkley
    Lebron James
    Dwight Howard
    Dwanye Wade
    Gary Payton
    Peyton Manning (but maybe that’s just because he is in 500 commercials)
    Chad Johnson
    T.O.
    David Wells[/quote]

    It’s all subjective, of course, but I don’t find any of those particularly interesting personalities.[/quote]
    To me, Ali is the rare combo of athlete at the absolute pinnacle of their game and with the personality to go with it.

    Those NBA guys, with the exception of Barkley, don’t even come close (and I would argue that Barkley’s status as a player was a tad overrated). At least not at this moment in time. But even past greats, Bird, Magic, MJ, etc weren’t really explosive personalities.

    Look at hockey, Gretzky, Mario, Sid, nothing really.

    What about Tiger Woods? He could quite possibly be the most boring personality in all of sports!

    There’s something about that next level of greatness that I guess makes one concentrate on performance and let all that other BS to the wayside.

    How about Roberto Clemente? Different kind of compelling personality than an Ali, but still interesting no?[/quote]

    How does Shaq have no personality? I’m not talking about just the shenanigans he displayed on Sunday (link)

    Arguably one of the best center’s ever to play the game and a personality the size of his waistband
    link

    link
    Just my opinion. Don’t get me wrong, I like Shaq a lot. However, coming up with funky nicknames for yourself isn’t the end all (I don’t see anyone naming clinton portis on their lists!).

    I actually heard Dan Patrick on his radio show back when he was on ESPN Radio break it down perfect. To paraphrase: people see Shaq and they see this seven-footer with size 22 feet and huge smile and they think he’s some engaging personality but in my experience he’s one of the worst interviews out there. He really doesn’t say anything when you want to talk about basketball, it’s all about his alteregos and these characters, like he’s a superhero. But ask him to breakdown last night’s game with Houston he doesn’t really give you anything.[/quote]

    i can see that point, however that is all part of his personality. Much like Portis, Dennis Rodman, and other athletes that appear quirky[/quote]

    His lack of personality is “all part of his personality”?[/quote]

    Sorry – his alteregos and these characters – that’s what I was referring to.

    With A-rod, I notice gum smacking arrogance. Like he’s entitled to something.

    With Shaq, I notice a playful nature. Someone who truly enjoys what he does and has fun with it. His “lack” of interview skills (according to Dan Patrick) do not correlate with a lack of personality.[/quote]

    Agreed. I thought the original question was to think of players with either “charisma” or a “truly compelling personality.”

    Regardless of how un-insightful he may be when discussing the actual game, there is no denying Shaq has a TON of charisma. That was the basis for the entire list I mentioned, I thought of players who I thought had charisma.[/quote]

    How many athletes have gone to make multiple movies and have link?

    This guy, to quote Greg Oden, is a chameleon.

    My apologies for breaking the forum:

    To continue my point, Shaq also has put out records… he’s done everything anyone born in the 1990’s has ever wanted to do.

    Also, check this out:

    link

    Oregon may have some bad uniforms, but they have one awesome freelance reporter.

    (I really need to quit, as one person once told me, “pimpin’ my shit” on every blog I see… hahaha)

    [quote comment=”315485″]kenny, please try not to break the comment function again

    ;)[/quote]

    It’s all part of my divine plan. I’m going to break Uni Watch and then create a blog named “Moon-i Watch”, and post nothing but the video of Joe Buck getting pissed at Randy Moss.

    [quote comment=”315487″][quote comment=”315485″]kenny, please try not to break the comment function again

    ;)[/quote]

    It’s all part of my divine plan. I’m going to break Uni Watch and then create a blog named “Moon-i Watch”, and post nothing but the video of Joe Buck getting pissed at Randy Moss.[/quote]
    Hey, anything that keeps Beardface quiet for 10 minutes works for me.

    I just had to say that these latest DIY projects are all fantastic, and it really warms my hear tto know that there are folks as anal-retentive as I am out there. And the 27-extra miles taken to get that helmet right? Beautiful!

    Well done, everyone.

    i always wished 1 of 2 things for the steelers 1) they bring back that little round guy with a big helmet (please, no jokes about fat steelers, that’s just a layup), or 2) i always though it would be cool if they dressed the parrot and iceburg up in steelers gear and let them walk around during the games. kinda fun…

    Why? One of the great things about going to Steeler games over the years was always the idea that people were there to watch a football game, not cheerleaders or mascots. It always bothered me that I’d have to yell at the Parrot to duck or get out of the way so I could see at Pirate games.

    They were so bad they didn’t have a choice but to get better. They cherry-picked good draft picks for so many years by underachieving that they had to get really good. It had nothing to do with good management, it was the exact opposite.

    Tell that to the Pirates.

    [quote comment=”315442″][quote comment=”315438″]hmmm… wasn’t aware that shero drafted “Fleury, Crosby, Malkin, and Staal”

    …craig who?!?!

    and damn that shero for never making any moves at the trade deadline to help us!!! thats just bad management!

    and while i’m at it, damn that “pathetic fan following”! worst in the league if you ask me![/quote]
    LOL… please, I KNOW you’re not praising Craig Ramsey for allowing the team to be so bad for so long that they could draft those 4 in subsequent years…

    And as for the pathetic fan following… the Pens were bottom 2 in the league in attendance for about 5 straight years before they showed signs of life in 2006… And saying 5 straight years might be a drastic understatement… Yes, the following was pathetic, it was so bad, they were the ones being touted to move to KC, and a new arena was only a secondary reason for the move. Would have happened, too, had Bettman not intervened.[/quote]

    Dude, where you pull your facts and figures out of. You better get your facts straight before you mouth off.

    It reminds me of the great line from Billy Madison, “what you’ve just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it.”

    First off the attendance. In 2001 Pittsburgh ranked 16th in attendance out of 30. Last, the Islanders. Sorry Phil. 2002, 22nd. 2003, 25th. 2004, they were indeed last. That was the last year before the strike. It was also the year Mario and his investors threatened to move the team. Not because of lack of fan interest, but because of the lack of a new arena! Period! So where’s the 5 consecutive years of being last in attendance? Not only that, take a look at which city consistently gets the highest market share of their broadcast games. You will find that Pittsburgh consistently is in the top 5.

    As far as performance, 2001-2006 were not a great years on the ice for the Pens. They frankly stunk. Mainly because the debt that the team inherited didn’t allow much left for Craig PATRICK to aquire talent. They had to build through the draft. 2001, Colby Armstrong. 2002, Ryan Whitney. In 2003 Craig PATRICK traded up to get Marc Andre Fluery. In 2004, despite the worst record in the league, the Capitals won the Ovechkin Lottery. The Penguins had to settle for Evgeni Malkin. We got a huge break when after the strike we hit the Crosby lottery. Yeah even Craig PATRICK couldn’t screw that one up. Even with Sid, they weren’t very good. So we were lucky to get Jordan Staal in 2006 (although I’d have preferred Jonathan Toews).

    Yeah the team suffered through some bad times and bad teams, mainly because of the horrible financial dealings of Howard Baldwin. They have been the solid #2 team for fan interest since the early 90’s. Well before the Pirates sucked.

    As a life long Penguins fan, yes I can say that. Even though it pains me, the Pirates fan in me. My father took me to the very first Penguins game as a birthday present for my 6th birthday. I’ve been hooked ever since.

    Sorry to ramble on, but that post really got into my craw.

    On a side bar Dee’s is a good choice. My dad actually played softball for them back in the 60’s. I wish I had some of those jerseys left, wore them to death though. Chiodo’s would have been great R.I.P. Max’s is okay. The Bloomfield Bridge Tavern might be a good choice. It was even better before Stush the original owner passed on. If you go there, look in the basement ceiling for a blow up doll we hid up there after a bachelor party.

    And now back to our regularly scheduled uni obsessions.

    [quote comment=”315490″]i always wished 1 of 2 things for the steelers 1) they bring back that little round guy with a big helmet (please, no jokes about fat steelers, that’s just a layup), or 2) i always though it would be cool if they dressed the parrot and iceburg up in steelers gear and let them walk around during the games. kinda fun…

    Why? One of the great things about going to Steeler games over the years was always the idea that people were there to watch a football game, not cheerleaders or mascots. It always bothered me that I’d have to yell at the Parrot to duck or get out of the way so I could see at Pirate games.[/quote]

    no… i mean just around the outside of the stadium and maybe walk around the field a little. no biggie at all. no obstructed views. i mean, if they’re gonna have a disaster like steely mcbeam, they might as well have mascots that people ACTUALLY like! know what i mean?

    [quote comment=”315488″][quote comment=”315487″][quote comment=”315485″]kenny, please try not to break the comment function again

    ;)[/quote]

    It’s all part of my divine plan. I’m going to break Uni Watch and then create a blog named “Moon-i Watch”, and post nothing but the video of Joe Buck getting pissed at Randy Moss.[/quote]
    Hey, anything that keeps Beardface quiet for 10 minutes works for me.[/quote]

    I’m waiting for the “block user” function.

    *didn’t just say that*

    [quote] Last, the Islanders. Sorry Phil. [/quote]

    heh…don’t apologize to me, i was frequently dressed as one of those empty seats; the mausoleum is a dump SHITHOLE, so you combine that with a bad product on the ice and what you get (and deservedly so) is an empty arena…to paraphrase what yogi (supposedly) said..”if the fans don’t want to come, no one’s gonna stop them”…

    i think i’ve been to ONE game in the past five seasons, and that’s cuz the seat was free…no glory days anymore…75-84 is but a very distant memory now

    [quote comment=”315407″]Regarding that county logo design vote. This Texas county just looked to the NFL for inspiration on their logo:

    link

    On the contrary my dear Watson, the county looked to the high school football team who looked to the NFL for inspiration… Meet the Wall Hawks!

    link
    link
    link

    [quote comment=”315496″][quote comment=”315407″]Regarding that county logo design vote. This Texas county just looked to the NFL for inspiration on their logo:

    link

    On the contrary my dear Watson, the county looked to the high school football team who looked to the NFL for inspiration… Meet the Wall Hawks!

    link
    link
    link

    Oy vey… I didn’t notice that sign says “Hawk Country”

    Greeting all,
    Passing along this info I read in the newspaper. A high school hear in town had to borrow a neighbor schools uniforms for its boys’ basketball playoff game due to a mercury spill. Can’t find any pics yet. –Jason

    link

    [quote comment=”315486″]To continue my point, Shaq also has put out records… he’s done everything anyone born in the 1990’s has ever wanted to do.
    [/quote]

    I’ve never doubted that he’s a genius at marketing himself. I just don’t think there’s anything to him that wasn’t first run by a focus group.

    He’s pro wrestling. All scripted and pre-packaged. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, lots of people like pro wrestling. I’m just not one of them.

    Re: Warning labels.

    I too had a incident with warning labels on the back of a helmet.

    When I was in high school we were black and vegas gold with black helmets. My senior year we decided to go with all black helmets with vegas gold stripes (stripes exactly like the carolina panthers) and no logos. We always thought the dings on the helmet looked much better.

    Anyways: my teammate and I decided we wanted more room for merit decals so we innocently took the warning labels off with a razor blade before the game, walked out for the coin toss, turned around, walked back to the side lines when a ref noticed our labels were missing. So we were flagged for not being ‘properly equipped’ or something like that. It was years ago but we were penalized on the kickoff because our coaches apparently signed off on something before the game saying everyone was dressed and PIAA regulated. Needless to say we ran the next morning while the team watched game film and we learned never to pull the warning labels off ever again.

    Note: We were able to play again because our coaches took off the labels of some freshmen who dressed varsity but never played and they went warning-lableless while we stayed on the field.

    Funny story I think.

    Which brings me to my next question:

    why no warning label on link

    and that is not the small warning label as noted link as Rob Montoya and Joe Skiba quickly informed all of us

    [quote comment=”315367″]“OKC Thunder unveiled their new mascot last night:

    A Bison named Rumble.[/quote]

    From all reports, even those at the Cramer boards, the original name was “FAIL!”

    [quote comment=”315500″]Re: Warning labels.

    I too had a incident with warning labels on the back of a helmet.

    When I was in high school we were black and vegas gold with black helmets. My senior year we decided to go with all black helmets with vegas gold stripes (stripes exactly like the carolina panthers) and no logos. We always thought the dings on the helmet looked much better.

    Anyways: my teammate and I decided we wanted more room for merit decals so we innocently took the warning labels off with a razor blade before the game, walked out for the coin toss, turned around, walked back to the side lines when a ref noticed our labels were missing. So we were flagged for not being ‘properly equipped’ or something like that. It was years ago but we were penalized on the kickoff because our coaches apparently signed off on something before the game saying everyone was dressed and PIAA regulated. Needless to say we ran the next morning while the team watched game film and we learned never to pull the warning labels off ever again.

    Note: We were able to play again because our coaches took off the labels of some freshmen who dressed varsity but never played and they went warning-lableless while we stayed on the field.

    Funny story I think.

    Which brings me to my next question:

    why no warning label on link

    and that is not the small warning label as noted link as Rob Montoya and Joe Skiba quickly informed all of us[/quote]

    If a helmet is without a warning label then perhaps it has not passed inspection by the reconditioner thus making it unsafe.

    The officials are not trying to be pains in the ass…their primary concern is the welfare of the athletes…not to mention if they let it go and someone gets hurt…it’s their asses!

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