tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61983683477054930812024-03-12T23:08:08.611-07:00BrockTalkObservations on sports, from the perspective of "BrockTalk" JacksonBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.comBlogger62125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-45809419196092885172010-03-17T13:56:00.000-07:002010-03-17T14:06:54.746-07:00St. Patrick's Day Massacre<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOZmFLuUuMqIEziQWT_viRrh8l9s9dAsY77Dn7kqDOc_YyWhN-WtfImpPuXokv4FpZWLcFee3ut-Ucc6KZpn7uy9oUPvWOSrJodYel2YgcxqhHGZgs6nMdvbi8ETSOCTlyjvt2zG5FPar/s1600-h/229007084v5_225x225_Front.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 225px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOZmFLuUuMqIEziQWT_viRrh8l9s9dAsY77Dn7kqDOc_YyWhN-WtfImpPuXokv4FpZWLcFee3ut-Ucc6KZpn7uy9oUPvWOSrJodYel2YgcxqhHGZgs6nMdvbi8ETSOCTlyjvt2zG5FPar/s320/229007084v5_225x225_Front.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449711277460687698" /></a><br /><br />March 17, 1991...what a sight in the old Chicago Stadium.<br /><br />I think on this night, the Chicago River was dyed red, instead of green.<br /><br />Happy St. Patty's Day!!<br /><br />What a lineup of goonery!<br /><br />Garth Butcher<br />Glen Featherstone<br />Mike Peluso<br />Scott Stevens<br />Dave Manson<br />Stu Grimson<br />Kelly Chase<br />Darin Kimble (rocking an INCREDIBLE mullet!)<br />Even old Harold Snepts!<br /><br />Plus Iron Mike Keenan and Brian Sutter looked like they wanted to get at it.<br /><br />Fight fans...enjoy:<br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/JS1lQvJarVA&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/JS1lQvJarVA&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZY4q4S0_AlE&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZY4q4S0_AlE&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-5984104863135817712010-02-25T09:53:00.000-08:002010-02-25T10:06:53.904-08:00Shock and Awe<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbitOviuG-KUiI4pbgDCq4VxFv1tLCdbCSOEp6splGFGuQd7ijCKz3LHJAwqU7yQlYxpHjA7fk3ZbEew58U3HbNtvYMLOT_9o2K0OX20k1dp_6eJQkqK2lNYB6HrAkRi8lrK1xyeWuFqrJ/s1600-h/team-canada-hockey-2010-logo.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 290px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbitOviuG-KUiI4pbgDCq4VxFv1tLCdbCSOEp6splGFGuQd7ijCKz3LHJAwqU7yQlYxpHjA7fk3ZbEew58U3HbNtvYMLOT_9o2K0OX20k1dp_6eJQkqK2lNYB6HrAkRi8lrK1xyeWuFqrJ/s320/team-canada-hockey-2010-logo.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442244125035634130" /></a><br />If you predicted that the Canadian men's hockey team would come out and absolutely manhandle the Russian squad in their quater-final matchup yesterday...please stand up.<br /><br />Okay, now that EVERYONE is still sitting, let's discuss.<br /><br />If you were like me, you were in your chair at the end of the first period and you were thinking "my God...we're up 4-1? I can't believe it. What year is this?"<br /><br />No one believed it.<br /><br />Not Mike Babcock. Not Stephen Harper. Not Billy the Bartender at your local pub. Geez, I bet that even Donald S. Cherry wouldn't have believed you if you said we'd be up 4-1 after a period versus Russia.<br /><br />But after 20 minutes, for all intents and purposes, this game was finished.<br /><br />Throw in 2 goals early in the second by Canada, and Rita McNeil was already into her final verse...'she' was singing.<br /><br />Ohhhhhhhhhh Caaaaaaaaanadaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!<br /><br />The semis bring us a matchup with Slovakia. They won't be a pushover, but it's hard not to look past that game and determine that there's a pretty good shot that if Canada beats the Slovaks...they'll meet the Amarrrricans in the gold medal game. (If the Yankees beat Finland)<br /><br />Hmmmmmmmmm...I wonder if that would be exciting at all?<br /><br />On with the games... I AM CANADIAN!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/MWkZ-rNQrdc&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/MWkZ-rNQrdc&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-37666086426776103512010-01-25T12:11:00.000-08:002010-01-25T12:25:33.138-08:00Flame On!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNvURxQefF5hd-Ot9xBQZXZihTHaXMJQGoSx9eFtwGCrw1Wi3eIr4sknmev4hO-bUCSMYO7mV_7fT76yBlX6kAg23J0ALcvPUiXtuSTwFnN-r07liu8J-weY021D2OLWbeYAwGjQ9ZwVTo/s1600-h/img214039833.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 185px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNvURxQefF5hd-Ot9xBQZXZihTHaXMJQGoSx9eFtwGCrw1Wi3eIr4sknmev4hO-bUCSMYO7mV_7fT76yBlX6kAg23J0ALcvPUiXtuSTwFnN-r07liu8J-weY021D2OLWbeYAwGjQ9ZwVTo/s320/img214039833.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430775420014586002" /></a><br /><br />Just a quick note on a day when the "Winter Games" (garsh...sure can't use that O word) torch rolls through Osoyoos, Oliver and Penticton.<br /><br />I must say it's pretty cool to see the exitement in the towns when the runners carry it through...and I am somewhat jealous of NOT being chosen as a runner (thanks RBC...yer never getting MY business!!!!)<br /><br />The crowd last night in Osoyoos for the cauldron lighting was massive, and so far the crowds lining the streets in Oliver, OK Falls, Kaleden and Penticton have been super enthusiastic and in great spirits. I'm sure the crowd at the South Okanagan Events Centre in Penticton will be a lively bunch...as well as the people in Summerland (who can boast TWO Olympians...freestyle skiier Kristi Richards and bobsledder Justin Kripps!)<br /><br />On side note, the standard all white torch runner outfits aren't what I would call 'flattering'...but I suppose if one runner has to look fat and frumpy then they ALL do.<br /><br />Anyhow...onwards and upwards with the march to the games! In celebration of our nation...I bring you a little love from South Park!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/D7UKllR0Edo&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/D7UKllR0Edo&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-31801852925545851222010-01-20T10:57:00.001-08:002010-01-20T11:37:06.855-08:00BrockTalk Bites 2.0<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-deF5C8nl7KrEtxSaWXdy_LTaJtX_1iHdMyTIPJZG8N8JsEA7gHMz77pNUie-uNXG7ydl2QtCGzaWoPND9wOcsNt8g3cA8hqDe0WnXZTX1DmCwU9jco-JGKZd2lg60fp2VQsiMLPvsyBE/s1600-h/sc00151694.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 262px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-deF5C8nl7KrEtxSaWXdy_LTaJtX_1iHdMyTIPJZG8N8JsEA7gHMz77pNUie-uNXG7ydl2QtCGzaWoPND9wOcsNt8g3cA8hqDe0WnXZTX1DmCwU9jco-JGKZd2lg60fp2VQsiMLPvsyBE/s320/sc00151694.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428907780239364770" /></a><br />It's been several months since the last installment of my cyber-clip show...BrockTalk Bites. So here we go with a variety of observations from the past few months in sports:<br /><br />Starting with my most painful observation...this hurts...San Diego Chargers lose to the New York Jets in the NFL Playoffs. Simply, the Bolts played their worst game of the year, got awful performances from QB Philip Rivers and kicker Nate Kaeding and took stupid penalties. Add it all up and that means yer done!<br /><br />Footnote...I'm pretty sure LaDanian Tomlinson has played his last game as a Charger...he's been an amazing player and person for the organization. I hope he leaves/retires on good terms with the team.<br /><br />Seems that the Tiger Talk has subsided (other than his trips to the sex addiction clinics)...I can hear the golf fans now, getting antsy for his return. I don't think it will be too long.<br /><br />Ron MacLean should be reprimanded for his one-sided attack on Alex Burrows on HNIC. It wasn't the clips of Burrows' "transgressions" that angered me...it was MacLean putting all the words in Burrows' mouth...very amateur.<br /><br />I really like what the Seattle Mariners have done in the offseason...adding the likes of Chone Figgins, Cliff Lee and extending their ace Felix Hernandez...things are looking up in the Emerald City.<br /><br />I wasn't overy excited about the Olympics, but after the men's hockey team was announced, and I spent 3 days in Vancouver, I'm pumped. The Olympic flame rolls through the South Okanagan Jan. 24/25 too!<br /><br />Rex Ryan annoys me to no end (and that was before his Jets beat my Chargers.) Just when I thought Bill Belicheck was the most arrogant coach in pro sports...along comes Rexy. But I'll give him this, he is always good for a quote.<br /><br />Nice to see Andre Dawson get into the MLB Hall of Fame. As much as I'd like to see him enshrined in an Expos hat, my money says he goes in wearing a Cubs one.<br /><br />Good to hear that Brock Lesnar will be back in the UFC soon. Crazy illness that he had to suffer through.<br /><br />Doubly good to hear that Vancouver City Council approved MMA in the city...the 604 will be going bonkers when the UFC rolls into town in the summer.<br /><br />Three leading scrappers in the NHL are Zenon Konopka, Brandon Prust and Matt Carkner (who, who and who?)...the kids are bringin' the bombs!<br /><br />BC Lions are getting hit hard in the offseason...losing Martell Mallett to the NFL and Philadelphia Eagles REALLY hurts. That being said, if he doesn't make the team, he could be back in orange and black soon.<br /><br />Speaking of CFL...good riddance to that idiot in Winnipeg Mike Kelly...what an embarrassment to the league. And Eric Tillman...sorry...I still don't buy the whole 'mixing medications' excuse.<br /><br />Nice to see the Memphis Grizzlies getting it together...funny how from the day they dropped Allen Iverson...things have really come together for them. They are stacked with a pretty damn fine roster...Zach Randolph, OJ Mayo, Marc Gasol, Rudy Gay...keep it going Grizz!!<br /><br />It's going to be a fine summer of footy! World Cup 2010 is on the way and I always get jacked for it...and cheering on my adopted "home country" The Netherlands. Go Oranje!<br /><br />I started with the NFL...so I'll end with it...I see Indy beating the Jets and the Saints beating the Vikes this weekend...a Colts/Saints Super Bowl would be a gooder.<br /><br />Okay...that's it for now...I think I'm up to date and have commented on almost everything that's caught my eye over the last few months.<br /><br /><br />Watch for BrockTalk Bites 3.0 down the road...in the meantime...enjoy the best of the Seinfeld clip show...nice redundancy!<br /><br /><object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/kceT132-kVo&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/kceT132-kVo&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-69097350859383517472010-01-12T21:26:00.000-08:002010-01-12T21:48:35.538-08:00Man Up, Mark<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQZJQfD4rqoy0Tf5SSTPaAN4wZxGfPAk7gfKIrq_pOnFPhx6B8vdTed0jLnREFcAtjHqodsXPPeGKh6kXSFYLw27gXWK3-1U7FJzd21yzBeH_WGve8SOLkdRPG-lMu5QANKTh6DkS1vqji/s1600-h/t1_mcgwire4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 190px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQZJQfD4rqoy0Tf5SSTPaAN4wZxGfPAk7gfKIrq_pOnFPhx6B8vdTed0jLnREFcAtjHqodsXPPeGKh6kXSFYLw27gXWK3-1U7FJzd21yzBeH_WGve8SOLkdRPG-lMu5QANKTh6DkS1vqji/s320/t1_mcgwire4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426095143086039186" /></a><br />Okay...I know this will be shocking and groundbreaking and catch the entire sporting world by surprise...but...here goes....<br /><br />Mark McGwire did 'roids.<br /><br />I'll wait for you to catch your breath.<br /><br />Yes, after many months, or years, of McGwire saying nothing about how he went from skinnyman to Superman...he has admitted that yes, he did steroids back in his playing days.<br /><br />But his admission is still registering as "off the charts" when it comes to the bullshit meter.<br /><br />Did he ever take roids to improve his long ball hitting performance?<br /><br />"No," he said. BULLSHIT.<br /><br />Does he think that if he didn't do any juice, he'd still break Roger Maris' homerun record and routinely hit over 50 a season?<br /><br />"Yes," he said. BULLSHIT.<br /><br />Did he ever inject with teammates like Jose Canseco, who for years said that they DID inject together?<br /><br />"Of course not," he said. BULLSHIT.<br /><br />McGwire is so full of crap his tears will be brown when he finally 'breaks down' in front of the the media...which I'm sure will happen when he has his first press conference.<br /><br />Sure it was good of Big Mac to admit to doing roids (of course he says he took them initially just to heal his body and continued to use them to maintain his health)...but...in the words of the Monday Night Football crew...COME ON MAN!<br /><br />McGwire, are you REALLY telling us that you never took steroids to increase your productivity?<br /><br />Dude, man up, be honest with yourself and the public and tell them you juiced so you could smash a million homers and be done with it. It's not that hard...and you'll probably feel better about the whole thing when you do.<br /><br />Oh, that's right, he also says he had "been given the gift to hit homers." <br /><br />Well that may be true, having a 'gift' will help you slam some balls out of the park. But that 'gift' didn't give you 48 inch guns and forearms bigger than Popeye...unless that 'gift' was a free cycle or two from your dealer.<br /><br />Mark McGwire's admission was pathetic at best...and he still has a LONG way to go to gain any credibility from me, and many of the doubting public.<br /><br />Chicks may dig the longball...but the only thing McGwire is digging...is a deeper hole.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/4ltD21rYWVw&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/4ltD21rYWVw&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-49330797022396215842009-12-29T10:57:00.000-08:002009-12-29T11:24:50.026-08:00Top 5 Moments Of The Decade That Didn't Happen<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkieUFlIyQH2qYsOTPw5ScCIUKVfOgR4KACyYHA6ZnO8DMy33iAJNL1renrwFJohPnJceMFeWSmeI7kz_TwSMusXp-SDgVxqwzIZ-l372JRrh2XXPBnXAQpJyOxV5RLNFZaFKNPrlAgCh6/s1600-h/grinds-my-gears1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 307px; height: 231px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkieUFlIyQH2qYsOTPw5ScCIUKVfOgR4KACyYHA6ZnO8DMy33iAJNL1renrwFJohPnJceMFeWSmeI7kz_TwSMusXp-SDgVxqwzIZ-l372JRrh2XXPBnXAQpJyOxV5RLNFZaFKNPrlAgCh6/s320/grinds-my-gears1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420740078051071026" /></a><br />One thing that really grinds my gears (thanks Peter Griffin) this time of year is the best/worst of the year lists.<br /><br />This year, it's especially grinding because there are the best/worst of the DECADE lists as well.<br /><br />Borrrrrrrrrring.<br /><br />So, instead of the best and worst...I present to your the Top Five Moments of the Decade That Didn't Happen But I Wish They Had...or to simplify...my TFMOTDTDHBIWTH list.<br /><br />5. September 29, 2004 had been just another day on the calendar - Such a sad day, when the Montreal Expos ceased to exist, and moved to Washington.<br /><br />4. Pat Dapuzzo had avoided that skate - <a href="http://brocktalkcanada.blogspot.com/2009/11/story-of-pat-dapuzzo.html">As I wrote in an earlier blog</a>, this was one of the most horrific moments in sports in the last year...all the best to Dapuzzo in his long road to recovery.<br /><br />3. Mike Weir had put his shot on the green, rather than in the drink, on the third playoff hole at the 2004 Canadian Open and beaten Vijay Singh, rather than ending up a bridesmaid - How SWEET it would have been for Weirsy to win the Canadian Open tourney on home soil at Glen Abbey...maybe one day...maybe.<br /><br />2. Brett Favre would have either A) stayed a Packer or B) stayed retired - I still get queasy when I think about how much ink and airtime was wasted covering his on again off again on again career.<br /><br />1. Steve Moore had turned around and fought Todd Bertuzzi - I know that he had already fought Matt Cooke earlier in the game and he was not obligated to fight the Canuck thug, but if he had just turned around and accepted Bertuzzi's offer to dance...all of this wouldn't have happened:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/NrV4KllxUOs&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/NrV4KllxUOs&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Who knows what the next 10 years have in store for us? Your guess is as good as mine...but thankfully...the "lists" are coming to an end!<br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-29586393354755710392009-12-24T11:33:00.002-08:002009-12-24T11:46:03.311-08:00A Broadcasting Legend Passes<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQjcVX6PMkT0VJHxHy-GwCL1jQ-xOI-IwOYZdWlf6FSKALE8soSXQ4PrH7wbA_BhhUw00mvMQyvgXBri2SoelaXUPzuyLmAyNDZcljM6A0Ug78rktTU95Odb02_zFHF7vVBEIJkij9VfPL/s1600-h/gm_44027.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 208px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQjcVX6PMkT0VJHxHy-GwCL1jQ-xOI-IwOYZdWlf6FSKALE8soSXQ4PrH7wbA_BhhUw00mvMQyvgXBri2SoelaXUPzuyLmAyNDZcljM6A0Ug78rktTU95Odb02_zFHF7vVBEIJkij9VfPL/s320/gm_44027.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418890122779139746" /></a><br />Unfortunately some sad news as I sit here on Christmas Eve day...getting word that one of my favourite sports broadcasters while growing up, has passed on.<br /><br />George Michael, who hosted the George Michael Sports Machine from 1980-2007 passed away yesterday from complications from chronic lymphocytic lukemia...he was 70.<br /><br />I remember staying up late, or taping, the GMSM Sunday nights on King TV out of Seattle. I also made a special note of when the final Sunday of each month rolled around (and ESPECIALLY the final Sunday of the year)...because that's when he used to roll out his plays of the month/year.<br /><br />I would sit with the VCR with play/record in pause...waiting for that instant moment to start taping the plays.<br /><br />The thing about George Michael was that he always had time for ALL sports...not just NFL, NBA and MLB...but he always had info on hockey, bowling, rodeo, skiing, golf, drag racing...EVERYTHING.<br /><br />He was a real broadcasting pioneer and will be missed greatly.<br /><br />His final show was in March 2007 so I'll leave you with his final Plays of the Year segment that he did in December 2006 (featuring his amazing voice and unbelievable music that he used for his 'plays' segments!)<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/fbg6SxbtD-I&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/fbg6SxbtD-I&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-32218933020095039352009-12-24T11:33:00.001-08:002009-12-24T11:33:24.053-08:00A BroadsBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-28701384597772113782009-12-22T16:02:00.000-08:002009-12-22T16:30:24.436-08:00Bro, is the MAN!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgemhBsfTVb1zC1f2R7801v-c-dZKij-MjeAAjpxk8qXZn6xVUR1vDvC3XrpHwbQcemimbkb5V1aG8PePWIhFEmThdB7ykoHMaqWslP_4J6daIuSgoOd2DDIXvXZQmQfwECuWCHTFKWZeNZ/s1600-h/Martin-Brodeur-001.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 192px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgemhBsfTVb1zC1f2R7801v-c-dZKij-MjeAAjpxk8qXZn6xVUR1vDvC3XrpHwbQcemimbkb5V1aG8PePWIhFEmThdB7ykoHMaqWslP_4J6daIuSgoOd2DDIXvXZQmQfwECuWCHTFKWZeNZ/s320/Martin-Brodeur-001.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418221825067559250" /></a><br />Last night Martin Brodeur of the New Jersey Devils broke one of those records that many thought would never be broken.<br /><br />When he posted a goose-egg versus Pittsburgh, and notched his 104th career shutout with a 4-0 win, he broke a record that had stood for almost 40 years!<br /> <br />Marty Bro...you are the man.<br /><br />I remember, when I was a young goalie in the West Vancouver Minor Hockey system...when I wasn't on the ice, I was busy being pretty obsessed with goalie stats. I poured over the Vancouver Sun every night (yes, the paper was delivered in the evening back then!) finding out how many shots guys had stopped the night before, who got the wins and the shutouts.<br /><br />I remember seeing a stat that said Terry Sawchuck (who played before I started following hockey...heck...before I was born) had 103 career shutouts.<br /><br />"This MUST be a misprint," I thought. "There's no way a guy could get 103 shutouts in his career." <br /><br />Buuuuuuuuut...it wasn't. Sawchuck had shut out the opponent 103 times during his career. AMAZING!<br /><br />Now along comes Martin Brodeur...who actually broke that seemingly unbreakable record. The stats say that Marty posts a shut out every 9.92 games...talk about impressive. And, Marty is only 37...how many more shutouts does he have left in his career? MANY more as far as I can see.<br /><br />When will his record be broken? The closest to him are Detroit's Chris Osgood with 50, and Vancouver's Roberto Luongo and San Jose's Evgeni Nabokov have 49.<br /><br />I'd say it's pretty safe...for a LONG while.<br /><br />It's no wonder David Puddy was such a HUGE Brodeur fan!<br /><br /><object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Fowd29dOyh0&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Fowd29dOyh0&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-91432851731466610822009-12-15T13:35:00.000-08:002009-12-15T13:59:31.076-08:00Drop the Gloves<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha10aoiXFJ7B4DLjS63jQXsMXTxZjeapmKcnwxyUgz4h89sX2sheYdGz2vlUcdPWTz6wZh94Y0yCWndx0rfoqXumStnEY-Q0jZ8qC8VXtv0Uh2RQnBpZ6SEgRzL_B0FqJ7sXY9hWZw1gSU/s1600-h/ept_sports_nhl_experts-846542965-1260895197.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 199px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha10aoiXFJ7B4DLjS63jQXsMXTxZjeapmKcnwxyUgz4h89sX2sheYdGz2vlUcdPWTz6wZh94Y0yCWndx0rfoqXumStnEY-Q0jZ8qC8VXtv0Uh2RQnBpZ6SEgRzL_B0FqJ7sXY9hWZw1gSU/s320/ept_sports_nhl_experts-846542965-1260895197.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415584958546225250" /></a><br /><br />Considering holiday decorations are everywhere around us, Santa is in the mall, and people are making plans to spend holiday time with loved ones...it's OBVIOUSLY time for a blog entry about hockey fights!<br /> <br />I'll "pull no punches"...I love em!<br /><br />Something about two guys squaring off...the crowd rising to their feet...the players on the bench banging their sticks with enthusiasm...it's a real spectacle.<br /><br />Sure, some fights are totally staged (just not spontaneous enough for my liking) and some are just hug-fests (lame)...but every once in a while there is a fight so sensational that EVERYONE that I know that's is a hockey fan, can't stop talking about it.<br /><br />The legs of a great fight, are a lot longer than those of a great game.<br /><br />For instance, people still love talking about <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhcvB99f3iI">Coxe vs. Probert</a> or <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiMJdl7k9sU">Probert vs. Domi</a>...and those fights were 23 and 18 years ago respectably!<br /><br />Do people still reminisce about great GAMES from '87 or '92? Not very likely.<br /><br />Anyhow, one of my favourite sites www.hockeyfights.com has just released their Top 10 Fights of the Decade...and I can't argue with any of the bouts that made their list. <br /><br />I especially am in awe of the Jeremy Yablonski/Jon "Nasty" Mirasty scraps...two unbelievably tough guys.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.hockeyfights.com/quickhits/qh/entry/top-10-fights-of-the-decade/">CLICK HERE</a> to see the breakdown and all the vids.<br /><br />I wonder how many Rick Rypien fights will be in the NEXT best of the decade?<br /><br />Me thinks (and me hopes)...A FEW!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/L_jASXAl8Eo&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/L_jASXAl8Eo&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/4PK_c5ig9to&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/4PK_c5ig9to&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br /><br />"Bloodthirsty" BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-88413114553877121462009-12-03T09:58:00.000-08:002009-12-03T10:21:43.357-08:00Caught a Tiger Chasing Tail<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnYaZsbNToJzOVabqLIPjhEn30pt7c1YGOGFZm387P715H0l-NF8Y45ts1D6OjeoC2dH4KMKwvaJd7PeidAYT5LbfzXoBt-AHq1IbNy9nvx_qRkdLVz8oIsPPRcIr8U29UN6zlggcFjmJO/s1600-h/spt_tigerwoods_sad,0.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 224px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnYaZsbNToJzOVabqLIPjhEn30pt7c1YGOGFZm387P715H0l-NF8Y45ts1D6OjeoC2dH4KMKwvaJd7PeidAYT5LbfzXoBt-AHq1IbNy9nvx_qRkdLVz8oIsPPRcIr8U29UN6zlggcFjmJO/s320/spt_tigerwoods_sad,0.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411076454155316066" /></a><br />By now I'm sure you heard about Tiger Woods and his admitted "transgressions" off the golf course.<br /><br />You've probably also heard the voicemail that he 'allegedly' left his little cocktail waitress friend asking her to take her name off call display because his wife found it on his phone.<br /><br />A couple of things spring to mind regarding all of this (outside of how insane it is that THIS story is the lead on not just SportsCentre and TMZ...but how it is the lead story on the major network newscasts!):<br /><br />1. How on earth did Tiger Woods ever think that he could 'get away' with something like this?<br /><br />and<br /><br />2. This won't hurt his career one bit.<br /><br />I'll tackle the first point first (what a concept!)<br /><br />Tiger Woods is probably one of, if not the most, recognizable people on the planet. People from Dubai to Denmark and Queensland to Qatar know who Tiger Woods is. In this day and age of digital cameras, YouTube, TMZ and seemingly everybody and their brother trying to get their 15 minutes of fame...the fact that Tiger thought that he could have "transgressions" (talk about the new buzz word!) without being found out, is baffling.<br /><br />Tiger strikes me as a pretty smart guy, he went to Stanford afterall. But obviously, he's just another dope who was thinking more with his little brain, than his big one.<br /><br />Now, will all this hurt his billion dollar career? <br /><br />Nope.<br /><br />Sure, he'll have to face a media frenzy like the world has never seen before when he plays in his first tournament in 2010. And yes, there will always be the comments and catcalls and innuendo. But as Bob Weekes of TSN said "he's still the best golfer in the world...and as soon as he wins his first tournament or sinks a 20 foot putt in a clutch situation" people won't be thinking about his "transgressions" anymore.<br /><br />That being said, I don't think his wife will be that quick to let it go. (Well DUH!)<br /> <br />But for now, Tiger is tail-deep in trouble. Have fun hacking your way out of THIS rough Eldrick!<br /><br />Perhaps Tiger should stop taking his own advice...the last thing he should have done is "just play."<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ogIeFzkMPkc&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ogIeFzkMPkc&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-36358700510326208022009-11-28T11:35:00.000-08:002009-11-28T12:08:25.182-08:00Carlton Gets Cut<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBFUCMz1L8ZLrEkBsYg-Gul0OxOxFAmnptgmxmlohi5GnPqJCg593KYIO4cOKDqtFV_B6xb8-1sjqKShx3k68c-cQnsA96J-WT_KzrrifhKGWwu1WDluLmhkyPHiAqpHwk8jKTTMgJSnFu/s1600/carlton_bear_leafs_381.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 174px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBFUCMz1L8ZLrEkBsYg-Gul0OxOxFAmnptgmxmlohi5GnPqJCg593KYIO4cOKDqtFV_B6xb8-1sjqKShx3k68c-cQnsA96J-WT_KzrrifhKGWwu1WDluLmhkyPHiAqpHwk8jKTTMgJSnFu/s320/carlton_bear_leafs_381.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409246898155144530" /></a><br />The Toronto Maple Leafs can wait no longer and they've decided that a change has to be made.<br /><br />Despite their somewhat inspired play of late, the braintrust (?) at MLSE has had enough, and made a drastic move to try to turn around the fourtunes of their sad-sack hockey team.<br /><br />They've fired...Carlton the Bear.<br /><br />While MLSE says that Carlton will be "retired" mid-December, we all know what's really going on...this is definitely a FIRING! <br /><br />Rather than point the fingers at players like Blake, Schenn or head coach Ron Wilson, they've made Carlton the Bear, the scapegoat..or...scapebear!<br /><br />For 20 years, Carlton has poured his heart and soul into the Leafs, and THIS is how they repay him???<br /><br />In light of Carlton's dismissal, I thought I'd bring you my top 5 mascots...based on a highly scientific formula where e=laughs and x=giggles while y=head shaking disapproval.<br /><br />5. <a href="http://www.boardoftrade.com/Images2/Events/cyp_cancuks300w_01oct08.jpg">Fin</a> - come on, I have to slide a Canucks reference in here. And it's pretty cool when the smoke comes out of his blowhole!<br />4. <a href="http://tofupunk.com/all_photos/stanford_tree.jpg">The Stanford Tree</a> - how can you not love a freakin' TREE that's a mascot?<br />3. <a href="http://frtim.files.wordpress.com/2008/04/phillie-phanatic1.jpg">The Philly Phanatic</a> - Long serving and instantly recognizeable...does a great "fat umpire" imitation<br />2. <a href="http://blogues.cyberpresse.ca/baseball/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/youppi.jpg">Youppi!</a> - Very VERY cool that the Habs adopted Youppi! after the Expos moved to DC<br />1. <a href="http://media.adn.com/smedia/2009/07/20/22/17-4569523.22526.original.standalone.prod_affiliate.7.jpg">The Famous Chicken</a> - Who else could it be? He is truly the best in the business!!<br /><br />Who are your faves? Post a comment and let me know.<br /><br />How can you not love The Chicken???<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/F5il7RAz5lA&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/F5il7RAz5lA&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-10856566641811950242009-11-25T10:28:00.000-08:002009-11-25T10:49:24.749-08:00Great American Traditions<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXj1Y3OjDPpM-0HbUcKYr3CZs4uqioqim61xdP2_kJB9H4A6_elvTZzZMyqoVlaFlU-moRS04-Bu2et1UMlo5PJPq2P3wEh8kF1AazuH7L7l-XPnOTS5Ijc0kWix41MLYFTg5wlOU0TsVB/s1600/thanks-giving-day.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 152px; height: 172px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXj1Y3OjDPpM-0HbUcKYr3CZs4uqioqim61xdP2_kJB9H4A6_elvTZzZMyqoVlaFlU-moRS04-Bu2et1UMlo5PJPq2P3wEh8kF1AazuH7L7l-XPnOTS5Ijc0kWix41MLYFTg5wlOU0TsVB/s320/thanks-giving-day.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408115256468886354" /></a><br />There aren't many things that make me say, "Boy, I wish I was American"...but there are a few.<br /><br />Being able to pick up 24 cans of Bud for 9.99 at the grocery store is one, and the other, Thanksgiving football!<br /><br />Sure we can enjoy the traditional slate of 3 Turkey Day games here in Canada on the tube (being a freelance writer I'm preeeetty sure I'll find some time to watch), but from what I can gather, I would REALLY enjoy kickin' it USA style on Thanksgiving. <br /><br />You know...spending an entire day sitting around with the family and friends, eating turkey, drinking that cheap Bud and watching a full day of NFL football!<br /><br />In between games, we could all gather on the lawn for a little game of two hand touch and throw the ball around while wearing our cords and oversized fall themed sweaters (does that really happen?)<br /><br />The beauty of this day is that the games don't even have to be the best matchups. In fact, this years games feature some pretty lousy teams...ahem...Detroit, Oakland and the 5 game losing streak Broncos. But, WHO CARES?<br /><br />While I still think that the Canadian Thanksgiving falls at the perfect time (mid-October gives you enough time to digest all that turkey before downing another bird at Christmas), it's tomorrow's Thursday football frenzy that makes me envious of the US version of Thanksgiving Day. <br /><br />Hmmm...Thanksgiving Day...TD...touchdown! It's all starting to make sense to me!<br /><br />Oh ya, that Black Friday shopping spree isn't such a bad thing either.<br /><br />Happy Thanksgiving to my American readers. Bring on the games, and I hope your turkey doesn't turn out like this:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/RDzVjBhebu4&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/RDzVjBhebu4&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-45913168998154084152009-11-19T10:09:00.000-08:002009-11-19T10:41:35.483-08:00Getting A Grip On Handles<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCVSGnlWZ9B_-q-UUgNcAF3_ixDQVpHmMVr1tVlQ_rojLBR0N3lKrn2TSTGCwbdTTtB2zxKVEfVDvVMjwBrp6vkfcot9UwzlGPXDTacXPNo2zv4tNnFYUR8Uu_O_ZnaMc14YRWv6-WKtcs/s1600/shredderman_nicknames_L.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 251px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCVSGnlWZ9B_-q-UUgNcAF3_ixDQVpHmMVr1tVlQ_rojLBR0N3lKrn2TSTGCwbdTTtB2zxKVEfVDvVMjwBrp6vkfcot9UwzlGPXDTacXPNo2zv4tNnFYUR8Uu_O_ZnaMc14YRWv6-WKtcs/s320/shredderman_nicknames_L.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405886006438983090" /></a><br />Saturday night, Milwaukee Bucks rookie Brandon Jennings dropped 55 spectacular points on the Golden State Warriors (the second highest single game point total for a rook in NBA history).<br /><br />Immediately and deservedly, Jennings was thrust into the sporting spotlight.<br /><br />In the ensuing days, the thing that has impressed me most about Jennings wasn't his skill, his background (having played a season in Rome because he wasn't eligble for the NBA draft, and his grades were too low to get into college), or his projected totals for the 2009/10 season.<br /><br />What impressed me most, was his nickname. He was given it in Grade 12 and has it tattooed across the back of his back: YOUNG MONEY.<br /><br />I love it!<br /><br />It's short, it's catchy, it epitomizes a guy who is money on the court, with money in the bank! <br /><br />Unfortunately, too many nicknames these days are terribly uncreative.<br /><br />Smith becomes Smitty. Johnson becomes Johnny. Kane becomes Kaner. Stone becomes Stoner (actually that one is pretty good!)<br /><br />That being said, there are some GOOD nicknames out there...but very few GREAT ones.<br /><br />These are some of the GREAT ones that come to mind from today and days gone by:<br /><br />NFL - <a href="http://product.images.fansedge.com/33-89/33-89675-F.jpg">Christian "The Nigerian Nightmare" Okoye</a> - for an NFL linebacker to see this guy, who was likely larger than most of the LB's, running at them...it definitely was a nightmare.<br /><br />NHL -<a href="http://i.ebayimg.com/08/!BcB6-qQCGk~$(KGrHqIH-CYEqtnnGH49BKysn(K9RQ~~_3.JPG"> Ken "The Rat" Linseman</a> - The nickname that perfectly described a guy that would stick you in the groin, and while you were down, take the puck and put it in the back of the net.<br /><br />MLB - <a href="http://www.midwestsportsfans.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/frank-thomas-white-sox.jpg">Frank "The Big Hurt" Thomas</a> - I could sit here for a year and fail to come up with a better nickname for a guy this huge.<br /><br />NBA - <a href="http://beat.bodoglife.com/wp-content/uploads/charles-barkley.jpg">Charles "The Round Mound of Rebound" Barkley</a> - he never won an NBA championship, but he is the champion of sound bites as a broadcaster for TNT and his girth brought us his wonderful nickname. <br /><br />Those are just the ones that come to mind...what about you? Leave me a comment on what nicknames are the GREAT ones in sports!<br /><br />Oh, and although it's not sports related, there is one more great nickname that should be recognized:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/JC4C_Gcp_dM&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/JC4C_Gcp_dM&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-71476363457186058662009-11-17T08:26:00.000-08:002009-11-17T08:45:48.115-08:00(Fortunately) The Peter Forsberg Saga Comes To A Close<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH9YBD-cebzKIhUzN3_U5r-3q41EhMjV4CLpQ-qN-jw9I9ljTXsl0saNEQOF2H3jhhn5rgMVOn_OugehyphenhypheniGd59lw6KuxWF4j_M_gdojQHniY9gMGDO62ZDXRwJqyKJE1uBtF5ElhtoM61_/s1600/forsberg.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 283px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH9YBD-cebzKIhUzN3_U5r-3q41EhMjV4CLpQ-qN-jw9I9ljTXsl0saNEQOF2H3jhhn5rgMVOn_OugehyphenhypheniGd59lw6KuxWF4j_M_gdojQHniY9gMGDO62ZDXRwJqyKJE1uBtF5ElhtoM61_/s320/forsberg.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405114722350144002" /></a><br />Peter Forsberg has told Vancouver Canucks General Manager Mike Gillis that he is committing to play this hockey season in Sweden and that he won't be coming to the NHL.<br /><br />Thank God!<br /><br />I know Forsberg has a very impressive track record (249 G, 636 A, 885 PTS in just 706 NHL games) but the Canucks, and the NHL for that matter, do not need another Sundin-esque will-he-or-won't-he drama overshadowing the season.<br /><br />If you recall, and who can forget it, last year Mats Sundin took the majority of the season to decide if he was interested in actually playing in the NHL. Eventually he signed with the Vancouver Canucks and played out the last quarter of the season with mixed results.<br /><br />But the entire season the media, fans, and likely NHL players too, spent WAY too much time talking about a guy who couldn't decide if he was in or out.<br /><br />The Sundin talk made news about NHL labour struggles seem breathtaking by comparison. Yawwwwwwwwwwn.<br /><br />So as we headed into this season, rumblings came out of Sweden that maybe Forsberg would entertain an offer from the Canucks to join the team. In turn, the Forsberg Files began to get more and more coverage...until he quashed all the rumours the other day saying he's staying in Sweden.<br /><br />It's reported today that his old buddy Markus Naslund may join him to play together on MoDo as well.<br /><br />Anyhow, to make a long (and boring) story short, Forsberg ain't comin' to the NHL so drop the puck and we can all move on.<br /><br />At least, until NEXT off season!<br /><br />Until then, let's all remember what kind of skill and grace Peter "Nut Punch" Forsberg brings to the game:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/JKrXiOR8fBY&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/JKrXiOR8fBY&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-10694374725572045512009-11-11T10:28:00.000-08:002009-11-11T11:45:51.173-08:00A Day To Remember...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh60OXNUvET20LRCDCyGFfF_k9s7S53S7JYi9p3UKAHsL7zy7fLP4NECVAlbKSXnkOs-ebljefiOvZSY_EAfr8d3RGnvfpzG1SLFBzQ8kjT3NCeDUgQ7SBCOQGDtVMuZ6bn7hlxHpQDufxp/s1600-h/pat_tillman_1_.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 207px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh60OXNUvET20LRCDCyGFfF_k9s7S53S7JYi9p3UKAHsL7zy7fLP4NECVAlbKSXnkOs-ebljefiOvZSY_EAfr8d3RGnvfpzG1SLFBzQ8kjT3NCeDUgQ7SBCOQGDtVMuZ6bn7hlxHpQDufxp/s320/pat_tillman_1_.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402922133079150882" /></a><br />Being November 11th, Remembrance Day in Canada, Veterans Day in the States, it's a time to remember everyone who has given their time, their spirit and in far too many cases, their lives, for our freedom.<br /><br />It's a day to remember people like Pat Tillman.<br /><br />For those who are unaware, Tillman was a starting safety with the Arizona Cardinals of the NFL.<br /><br />He had dedicated his life to football and the Cardinals, even turning down a multi-year contract offer from the St. Louis Rams so he could remain loyal to the Cards.<br /><br />But more than anything, Tillman was loyal to his country.<br /><br />In May 2002, eight months after the September 11 terrorist attacks, Tillman gave up his football career to serve his country in the Army.<br /><br />After going through all the usual levels of training and participation in the field, Tillman was eventually redeployed to Afghanistan.<br /><br />On April 2004, nearly two years after Tillman left football behind for a life as a soldier, Pat Tillman was killed. <br /><br />Initially the Army told his family that Tillman had been killed by enemy fire...and subsquently he was awarded a Silver Star for his selfless actions in trying to protect his fellow soldiers.<br /><br />But it wasn't a simple open and shut case...far from it.<br /><br />As the details emerged, it turned out that no hostile forces were involved in the firefight. It was reported that the two Allied Forces groups fired upon each other in confusion, after a explosive device detonated nearby.<br /><br />There were more accusations that Tillman may have been killed by shots fired at short range...perhaps by his fellow soldiers. The coroner even refused to sign the autopsy because he said the gunshot wounds were not consistent with the Army's original story.<br /><br />But what DID really happen?<br /><br />Finally July 14, 2008 the investigation committee stated that its "investigation was frustrated by a near universal lack of recall" among "senior officials at the White House" and the military. It concluded:<br /><br />"The pervasive lack of recollection and absence of specific information makes it impossible for the Committee to assign responsibility for the misinformation in Corporal Tillman’s and Private Lynch’s (another soldier) cases. It is clear, however, that the Defense Department did not meet its most basic obligations in sharing accurate information with the families and with the American public."<br /><br />To date, the REAL truth about what happened to Pat Tillman has not been determined. A very sad and tragic ending to Pat Tillman's time on this planet. <br /><br />Can you think of another pro athlete that would give up EVERYTHING to join the military? Without knowing any of them personally, I highly doubt that there is anyone who would make the choice and sacrifice that Pat Tillman did.<br /><br />Please take time today to remember EVERYONE who has, and continues, to serve our (or your) country and fight for the freedom that we currently enjoy.<br /><br />For more check out the 60 Minutes piece from May 4, 2008:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/C8PVkTJY7_Q&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/C8PVkTJY7_Q&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/im9G8y0PS5c&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/im9G8y0PS5c&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-29434715363758535132009-11-07T11:11:00.000-08:002009-11-07T11:27:47.208-08:00The Story of Pat Dapuzzo<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk5mrjb0IxDGOHeRQEaCgVI5MOQLVtEnM7IM3wQkE4yYinq_vsqnQB4MggWxylWbTedavbcpsqZwiaC4_HHDoHeRP9tsUWS4Mo-LqyAZOMsJ2pDkTqTRCc2svFuhFU5Wm_oA0B4fjPex1o/s1600-h/2007+NHL+Headshots+v1mh9fo0NJul.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk5mrjb0IxDGOHeRQEaCgVI5MOQLVtEnM7IM3wQkE4yYinq_vsqnQB4MggWxylWbTedavbcpsqZwiaC4_HHDoHeRP9tsUWS4Mo-LqyAZOMsJ2pDkTqTRCc2svFuhFU5Wm_oA0B4fjPex1o/s320/2007+NHL+Headshots+v1mh9fo0NJul.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401445040339808642" /></a><br />I've been meaning to get this story out to the masses for a while but I've just been a little busy moving to do so.<br /><br />But now that I'm settled, I'll pass it on.<br /><br />It's the story of NHL linesman Pat Dapuzzo. It's a story of suffering, not only a horrendous career ending injury, but also with the struggles with physical and mental pain, multiple surgeries, and of course the long, long road to recovery.<br /><br />When I first saw the incident back in February, I was sickened by what I saw. <br /><br />I had patrolled the lines in junior hockey for many years and had had a couple of close calls with sticks and pucks, but never with any skate blades. I couldn't begin to comprehend what was going through Dapuzzo's mind when the accident took place.<br /><br />Rather than me tell you the story, I'll let Dapuzzo tell the story to you in his own words.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.thestar.com/sports/hockey/nhl/article/718502--how-the-slash-of-a-skate-severed-a-nose-altered-a-life?bn=1">CLICK HERE</a> for Dapuzzo's story as told to Fanhouse.com and re-printed in the October 30, 2009 edition of the Toronto Star (thanks to my brother Todd for passing it on to me.)<br /><br />The video of the incident is below. As you can tell by the urgency in his voice and delivery, the rinkside reporter Steve Coates, knows that the injury Dapuzzo suffered was more than just a bad cut.<br /><br />All the best to Pat Dapuzzo and his ongoing recovery.<br /><br />CAUTION - this video does contain some graphic images<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/CPEOPBrXOpk&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/CPEOPBrXOpk&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-62658663523597870232009-11-01T09:02:00.000-08:002009-11-01T10:18:40.993-08:00It Was 50 Years Ago Today...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg361iVPtAYMITjmxcAaFqh2a8xjfHYFJe6ilI_7laBOgfiIyVOPuz_a75TCeA31-Wjmm05jdpnCVPFyyp9vdBVKC-naN3iVJ_JSjfUcFwvI0fuOmi3IzmxCOBCEayAKVhADjg-X4oONGZd/s1600-h/jacquesplante1866830.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 318px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg361iVPtAYMITjmxcAaFqh2a8xjfHYFJe6ilI_7laBOgfiIyVOPuz_a75TCeA31-Wjmm05jdpnCVPFyyp9vdBVKC-naN3iVJ_JSjfUcFwvI0fuOmi3IzmxCOBCEayAKVhADjg-X4oONGZd/s320/jacquesplante1866830.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399201266736820194" /></a><br />...that Jacques Plante, of the Montreal Canadiens, donned a hockey mask for the first time.<br /><br />And with that, the look of hockey changed in an instant.<br /><br />When JP first put on the mask, he was mocked, ridiculed and made fun of to no end.<br /><br />"A goalie wearing a mask," John Q. Hockey player would say. "That's like a forward wearing a helmet! Or using a curved hockey stick!"<br /><br />Ah, how the times have changed.<br /><br />Being a former goalie (who will one day don the pads again...I swear!) I have been fascinated with masks forever.<br /><br />There have been thousands of masks that have been worn in the NHL since November 1, 1959 and each one has had it's own unique look.<br /><br />Unfortunately, all of todays masks are vitually the same, just with different paint jobs. While the images are very well done, they tend make the mask too busy and impossible to identify and understand without a close-up view. Check out Rick DiPietro's...<a href="http://i.cnn.net/si/multimedia/photo_gallery/0707/gallery.nhl.goalie.masks/images/dipietro.jpg">CLICK HERE</a>.<br /><br />The GREAT masks were the ones that were worn in the 70's and 80's. They were fibreglass masks made out of a mould of the goalies face. They offered very little protection, but it was better than going out on the ice barefaced! They came in all sorts of different shapes and sizes and weren't "overdone" like contemporary ones.<br /><br />To commemmerate the 50th anniversary of the hockey mask, I wanted to give you my top five masks of all time. Simply click on the name, to see the mask.<br /><br />5. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_USas31iurdgXlZuM8Cqy7q1gXZuJ74LWJqT5fmDI_wDvvw8iS18QGnOvqIYKnCm2Veue-ikxK5Iy72Tr4NCifxK5Yo8MvrKBel1-5ykx7zWrfUaKN-rUwnSbkoC2FrGb3I6lpOmIEN0/s400/Goalie+Mask.jpg">Brian Hayward, San Jose Sharks</a><br />Okay, I will give credit to one of the "new" style masks. This beauty was probably the mask that inspired all of todays goalies to get intricately detailed paint jobs. While far too many current masks are too "busy" for my liking, the simplicity and fierceness of Hayward's makes it a must for my top five.<br /><br />4. <a href="http://www.clearwater-publishing.com/Masks/Ron%20Low.htm">Ron Low, Washington Capitals</a><br />Low used this mask to honour the USA's bicentennial in 1975. It's very difficult to find a good picture of Low wearing it in action (really, who would bother taking pictures of the 1975 Washington Capitals?), but it's certainly better than this <a href="http://www.goaliestore.com/board/attachments/hockey-talk/18448d1244748297-needle-haystack-nearly-new-kenesky-pads-ron-low-oilers-john-brown-blocker.jpg">ugly helmet/cage combo</a> he wore later in his career. <br /><br />3. <a href="http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/multimedia/photo_gallery/0907/nhl.goalie.masks.expansion.era.1967to82/images/gilles-gratton.jpg">Gilles Gratton, New York Rangers</a><br />A brilliant mask...what an amazing paint job. It could easily be number one on the list...it's just that most people would say "Who the hell is Gilles Gratton?"<br /><br />2. <a href="http://www.classicmask.com/themaskmakers/higgins/eh1.JPG">Gerry Cheevers, Boston Bruins</a><br />With each stitch representing a place on the mask where a puck, stick or skate would have cut him, if not wearing the mask, Cheevers would have been a very disfigured man today.<br /><br />1. <a href="http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/multimedia/photo_gallery/0907/nhl.goalie.masks.expansion.era.1967to82/images/gary-bromley.jpg">Gary Bromley, Vancouver Canucks</a><br />With a nickname like "Bones" it was appropriate that Bromley wore this amazing skull mask. Intimidating, cool, unique. It's ironic that he wore such a cool mask, while at the same time wearing what's been called the ugliest uniform of all time!<br /><br />What would be really great, but I seriously doubt anyone would do it, would be for a goalie in one of tonight's games wear an "old style" mask for a period to honour the day. They could even wear one just for the warm up! <br /><br />But with the speed of the shots and the lack of protection a crappy 70's/80's mask has, I don't think there'd be any way a goalie would step out on the ice wearing one...as cool as it might look.<br /><br />And just to think, there was a day where NO ONE wore one!<br /><br />Leave me your comments on what masks YOU love...maybe it's the mask of <a href="http://bp0.blogger.com/_TwAbZhMGVEw/RnCQ_67z1DI/AAAAAAAABgE/YSTG0Y1LjgQ/s1600-h/mikeliut.jpg">Mike Liut</a>, <a href="http://www.canadiandesignresource.ca/officialgallery/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/mike-palmateer.jpg">Mike Palmateer</a>, <a href="http://www.canadiandesignresource.ca/officialgallery/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/canucks.jpg">Curt Ridley</a>, or <a href="http://www.canadiandesignresource.ca/officialgallery/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/ken_dryden.jpg">Ken Dryden</a>. I'd love to get your feedback.<br /><br />Happy Mask Day!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/6B9gAdKGDsI&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/6B9gAdKGDsI&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-2890448278860060422009-10-28T13:46:00.000-07:002009-10-29T13:24:44.898-07:001994 World Series Champion Montreal Expos<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzCFYPzwz5FeYjXY15A5xbAjpnC7V8gMa4sSgQzH2cBzO08XLWUNkpnEjKe9nGoxnIAgFJKWDtrk1sTfop_lTlKBIn6uxNcIpH1PlN7B4s4RvXjmUMqp8JaD8R1eht5QEpEnjTW9SD2sdW/s1600-h/1210.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 238px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzCFYPzwz5FeYjXY15A5xbAjpnC7V8gMa4sSgQzH2cBzO08XLWUNkpnEjKe9nGoxnIAgFJKWDtrk1sTfop_lTlKBIn6uxNcIpH1PlN7B4s4RvXjmUMqp8JaD8R1eht5QEpEnjTW9SD2sdW/s320/1210.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397763027806591010" /></a><br />With the start of the 2009 World Series tonight, let's take a trip back in time...to the 1994 World Series.<br /><br />Ah, what a series it was. The powerful New York Yankees versus the lesser know, but more powerful, Montreal Expos.<br /><br />Experts worldwide gave the Yankees far more, and the Expos far less, credit than they deserved.<br /><br />While many called for a Yankees white-wash of the 'Spos...in the words of ESPN's Chris Berman...that's why they play the games.<br /><br />GAME 1 New York @ Montreal - After a blistering rendition of O Canada by Celine Dion, the series kicks off with a bang. Bernie Williams homers off Expos starter Pedro Martinez to lead off the game and the rout is on...not quite. Martinez settles down and proceeds to limit the Yankees to 3 more hits while striking out 12 over 8 innings. Moises Alou and Larry Walker go back to back in the 6th off Jimmy Key and the Expos take game one 2-1.<br /><br />GAME 2 New York @ Montreal - Yankees pinch hitter Jim Leyritz steps to the plate with the bases loaded in the top of the 7th and rips a curveball from Jeff Shaw for a double down the left field line. Alou boots the ball letting all 3 runs score. Alou somewhat redeems himself with a 2 run homer in the bottom of the 7th but the damage is done. Yankees win 5-4.<br /><br />GAME 3 Montreal @ New York - Rain delays the start of the game for 1 hour but that time apparently gives Yankee pitcher Jim Abbott time to figure out each Expo hitter. He baffles the Spos for 6 innings, yielding one hit. Fighting a blister on his left index finger, he yeilds to Paul Gibson. Bad move. Gibson hits Mike Lansing with his first pitch and things just get worse from there. The Expos bat around in the 7th, hilighted by an upper deck homer by Larry Walker and the Expos win going away 7-1.<br /><br />GAME 4 Montreal @ New York - With no stolen bases in the first three games, both teams go nutty on the basepaths. The Expos swipe four (Grissom, Walker, Lou Frazier with two) while the Yankees take six off of a bewildered Darin Fletcher (Williams and Luis Polonia 2 each, Mike Gallego, Randy Velarde). The Yankees play some "NL small ball," get a monstorous homerun from Danny Tartabull and teriffic pitching from Jimmy Key to take game four, 4-0.<br /><br />GAME 5 Montreal @ New York - The series is tied two games a piece and tensions run high. In the 6th inning, after Cliff Floyd launches a 3 run bomb, surprise game five starter Scott Kamineicki throws behind Wil Cordero and both benches empty. No punches are thrown but both sides are warned. In the bottom of the inning, Expos starter Ken Hill drills Bernie Williams and is ejected. The Expos bullpen can't get it done and gives up four runs in the inning. Yankees win 6-4.<br /><br />GAME 6 New York @ Montreal - The series returns to La Belle Province and no one is happier than Youppi! The Expos mascot has to be carted off the field on a stretcher in the top of the first after he falls off the Yankees dugout while dancing with excitement. Despite the bad omen, the Expos bring their A game and crush 4 home runs (Alou, Grissom, Rondell White, Sean Berry) while Jeff Fassero, Mel Rojas and John Wetteland silence the Yankees bats. Expos win 9-0.<br /><br />GAME 7 New York @ Montreal - Nothing like a game seven! The Big O is jammed to the rafters and Pedro Martinez and Jimmy Key each take to the mound for the third time in the series. Both pitchers struggle with command early, but stellar defence (including an sensational rug-burn inducing sliding catch by Marquis Grissom) keep the score close. They both turn things over to the bullpen. As has been the case all year, Mel Rojas and John Wetteland are unhittable, while the Yankees bullpen can't get it done. Expos backup catcher Tim Spehr pulls a line drive homer down the right field line in the bottom of the 8th of Bob Wickman. Then, soon to be named World Series MVP Moises Alou follows with his third home of the series to ice it. Expos win the game 4-3, the series 4-3, and their first, and only, World Series.<br /><br />*Editors note: The preceding games actually did take place, in BrockTalk's mind only. DREAM ON BUDDY!<br /><br />Speaking of DREAM ON...if you've never seen this piece by ESPN...you can thank me now. Simply amazing.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/mHg0XKDAdxs&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/mHg0XKDAdxs&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-51717170142570031022009-10-27T09:23:00.001-07:002009-10-27T09:46:11.695-07:00Double Dribble<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUirfk_FcPyORejSijAqz6uvFuPFTTqKA3wMiLhse1GRHc8G1BXa5bsq8CyacbTBOiTSDqlQUSekJxpIbi8S-bRgHtAel_PJ1Ot5pGdAPa977nuFOfziTAtn-_h7sLvuhrunBjst-YuyB/s1600-h/nba_g_kobe_lebron1_576.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 179px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUirfk_FcPyORejSijAqz6uvFuPFTTqKA3wMiLhse1GRHc8G1BXa5bsq8CyacbTBOiTSDqlQUSekJxpIbi8S-bRgHtAel_PJ1Ot5pGdAPa977nuFOfziTAtn-_h7sLvuhrunBjst-YuyB/s320/nba_g_kobe_lebron1_576.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397321915510952722" /></a><br />First off, let me state that I am not a hardcore hoop-head. I watch it now and then, cheer for the Memphis (Vancouver) Grizzlies and can pretty much live off the highlights. But with the new season starting tonight, I thought I should at least give it a little acknowledgment. <br /><br />So, tonight's the tip-off of the latest edition of the Kobe vs. Lebron League...aka...the NBA.<br /><br />No matter how much the NBA wants to talk about the bevvy of stars that run their courts, for the casual fan, it always comes back to Kobe and Lebron.<br /><br />Again, from the casual fan's perspective, will you tune in to see players like Dwight Howard, Chris Paul, Kevin Garnett or Chris Bosh? Unless you have a vested interest in the teams that they play on, not likely.<br /><br />Will casual "court surfers" tune into an NBA game if Kobe or Lebron are on the floor? It's a helluva lot more likely.<br /><br />I know there are millions of fans who are absolutely bursting at the seams with excitement because of the start of the season. And don't want to take anything away from the rest of the NBA players, but unless 24 or 23 is on the court, I'm not terribly interested.<br /><br />Further, when it comes to basketball, is there really any reason to watch anything but the final two minutes of a tight game? (which, admittedly, can be incredible viewing, especially in the playoffs)<br /><br />Anyhow, four games tonight, with Cleveland (Lebron and Shaq) taking on Boston (Garnett and Rasheed Wallace) as the marquee event. Should be a good tilt, but I'll just wait for the highlights.<br /><br />Now if you want some REAL basketball action...<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ed59WhzXlkk&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ed59WhzXlkk&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Or a great track to get you pumped for the b-ball season...<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/fqj1Q1a2mzU&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/fqj1Q1a2mzU&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-16560068148179715832009-10-25T09:01:00.000-07:002009-10-25T09:23:39.285-07:00October 25th and Baseball<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP3HSQo5_zsu0Kpl-18CQkhcrKpZ5WertLwt5dLqeW2aP1NG3agasyDj9hqSBh_gjHh3nPINDYn0WmGg5oqOJYjNzh_QAWG8QIzEdwqu9VaAtRrZ3ZS_XQYVBlMSIZ-1MuVxWe8IoAqgps/s1600-h/This%2520Day%2520In%2520History.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP3HSQo5_zsu0Kpl-18CQkhcrKpZ5WertLwt5dLqeW2aP1NG3agasyDj9hqSBh_gjHh3nPINDYn0WmGg5oqOJYjNzh_QAWG8QIzEdwqu9VaAtRrZ3ZS_XQYVBlMSIZ-1MuVxWe8IoAqgps/s320/This%2520Day%2520In%2520History.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396572829932056242" /></a><br />As tempted as I am to talk about the continues woes of the Toronto Maple Laffs, I can't do it because I'm enjoying their slide so much and I don't want to jinx anything (cue the Laffs winning their next game because I wrote this!)<br /><br />So I'll turn my attention to baseball again. <br /><br />Game six of the ALCS goes tonight in the Bronx (weather permitting). <br /><br />By the end of the evening, it's possible that the Yankees could be off to the World Series, or, the Angels could have forced a game 7 (my personal choice).<br /><br />The way October 25th has shaped up in the past, I expect something magical to happen tonight for a few different reasons.<br /><br />October 25, 1923, Bobby Thompson was born. Ever heard of him?<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/rMa5eZE5ilE&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/rMa5eZE5ilE&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />October 25, 1971, Pedro Martinez was born. Ever heard of him? (Showing love for the Expos!)<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/RUXq7ZVXgvU&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/RUXq7ZVXgvU&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />And oh ya, October 25, 1986, Mookie Wilson hit a little roller hit up along first...<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/aN-2i_ZUwjM&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/aN-2i_ZUwjM&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />A couple of pretty significant birthdays, and one of the most memorable moments in sports history...October 25 has been a pretty big day in baseball history. <br /><br />Will the Yankees and Phillies add to the legend of the day? We'll find out tonight.<br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-70725126816289097022009-10-23T10:18:00.000-07:002009-10-23T11:06:23.229-07:00Cause It's 1, 2, 3 Blow Calls Yer Out<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilAyny4wWDtdR8cW2S2VM3ZmZffUyR5shFRqQ9MhS1vg5SQ1t-3lBJcTnDoQz8k43IvW7N3M8rzNOJJWpAywTjjH_1SIuFs_tZImBmFgLTAICxt2BEc5jmn08ICIqG_uHxTGESY9TDr-4T/s1600-h/ept_sports_mlb_experts-29693741-1256091512.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilAyny4wWDtdR8cW2S2VM3ZmZffUyR5shFRqQ9MhS1vg5SQ1t-3lBJcTnDoQz8k43IvW7N3M8rzNOJJWpAywTjjH_1SIuFs_tZImBmFgLTAICxt2BEc5jmn08ICIqG_uHxTGESY9TDr-4T/s320/ept_sports_mlb_experts-29693741-1256091512.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395855300761660530" /></a><br />As a former official, I tend to be a bit lenient when it comes to the guys and gals who wear the stripes, carry the whistles and don the mask.<br /><br />But the more I watch the MLB playoffs, the more comical the officiating has become. I can't defend them anymore!<br /><br />This post season, it's been blown call after blown call after blown call. And these aren't just "close calls"...they are blatant screw ups. Errors that are so bad that you honestly, truly wonder, if the umps really do need glasses.<br /><br />How else can you explain Phil Cuzzi's foul call on a drive by Joe Mauer that was not only touched in fair territory, but it landed in fair territory. And Cuzzi was RIGHT THERE! <br /><br />It's not like he was 200 feet away, look how close to the play he actually was.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/1ClQ1H8eJ0w&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/1ClQ1H8eJ0w&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />And how about Tim McClelland? Talk about wearing some large goat-horns!<br /><br />First he calls Nick Swisher out for leaving the bag early on a sac fly (while not even looking at Swisher during the play) and then the grand-daddy of all blown calls (currently being referred to as the "worst call of all time")...missing the obvious double play at 3rd by Angels catcher Mike Napoli. <br /><br />Again, the ump was standing RIGHT THERE.<br /><br />For a great video breakdown on the game 4 umpiring madness <a href="http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20091020&content_id=7508476&vkey=news_nyy&fext=.jsp&c_id=nyy">CLICK HERE.</a><br /><br />At least McClelland manned up and admitted his mistake after the game, and was obviously upset and embarrassed...but guys...come on! <br /><br />So MLB has now decided to break with tradition and use only experienced umpires during the World Series. In the past at least one ump in the six man crew, would be doing the Classic for the first time.<br /><br />"Good," you may say. "They should have the most experienced umps doing the playoffs!"<br /><br />Sad thing is, Cuzzi has been an MLB umpire for 19 years and McClelland 26 years.<br /><br />Maybe it's time for MLB with younger eyes, not older.<br /><br />I can only imagine how ole Earl Weaver would have reacted if he was managing during this year's playoffs...probably a lot like this (caution...BAD language! And why aren't officials and coaches mic'ed up every game? This stuff is priceless!!!)<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/kl-4FSRYagc&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/kl-4FSRYagc&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-27335566353595884482009-10-18T08:52:00.000-07:002009-10-18T09:39:42.610-07:00Toughen Up<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiptTyQK4zVpo6sRe4SQ5AJ0MJHJpzgOCS3JQRPq8Xv-FnneAFoZBAXf9j23BZzjzeoiDWDOPQcMd7n1vwf2bXeyvAFqtP0Lic6bgKa8CYXsSpTK2Qgv_mpLX9SniE8SlXmUWUzoU0lCME9/s1600-h/911814609.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 257px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiptTyQK4zVpo6sRe4SQ5AJ0MJHJpzgOCS3JQRPq8Xv-FnneAFoZBAXf9j23BZzjzeoiDWDOPQcMd7n1vwf2bXeyvAFqtP0Lic6bgKa8CYXsSpTK2Qgv_mpLX9SniE8SlXmUWUzoU0lCME9/s320/911814609.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5393979701053157202" /></a><br />Just a short observation about the ALCS...this just really bothered me.<br /><br />The game one temperature was around 7C with 17 MPH winds. Game two was around the same, with a little more rain.<br /><br />I'll give it to the players, it was chilly. But was there REALLY a need for the ski masks and ear warmers that some of the players were wearing?<br /><br />I mean, grow a pair, and toughen up. I'm talking to you Chone Figgins, Erick Aybar Robinson Cano and Mark Texiera. The way the were dressed you would have thought the temp was about -20C.<br /><br />Dudes, have some pride! Man up!<br /><br />I didn't see Derek Jeter wearing something ridiculous on his head. Vladdy Guererro didn't need anything. CC Sabathia and John Lackey seemed to be fine. <br /><br />Gee, I can't understand why baseball players get a bad rap for being soft. I really can't (dripping with sarcasm).<br /><br />Lets hope the Dodgers and Phillies don't feel the need to rock the ridiculous gear we saw in New York. But baseball being baseball, I'm sure we'll see someone wimping out.<br /><br />The only thing worse than ball players in those goofy getups, is the soccer players that wear gloves!! ARGH!<br /><br />I'm sure all the players that were part of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NFL_Championship_Game,_1967">Ice Bowl in Green Bay </a>(-25C, windchill -44C), <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freezer_Bowl">the Freezer Bowl in Cincinatti</a> (-23C, windchill -51C) and the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heritage_Classic">Heritage Classic in Edmonton</a> (-18C, windchill -30C) are mocking those MLB players today.<br /><br />Now those temps will cause some significant shrinkage!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/pm3F9piwnTU&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/pm3F9piwnTU&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-29545401170166570442009-10-15T11:38:00.000-07:002009-10-15T11:58:43.385-07:00Time To 'Grab' The Opportunity<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWNcHwMkrGsapi3RFfHOV1VZ_Lg3Z7tvTwRFImBow6x0RX8rHFGl61998gQfdc_5AkWOWwbro8p9IdiEVihIfP5erjWJg22TlRiE2xqrLOGcWuH8EOxdZsWFxf6KWYl-pEmm5hrn2NAT61/s1600-h/1331907.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 206px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWNcHwMkrGsapi3RFfHOV1VZ_Lg3Z7tvTwRFImBow6x0RX8rHFGl61998gQfdc_5AkWOWwbro8p9IdiEVihIfP5erjWJg22TlRiE2xqrLOGcWuH8EOxdZsWFxf6KWYl-pEmm5hrn2NAT61/s320/1331907.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392902472317207378" /></a><br />You're a former first round draft pick.<br /><br />You've been a scorer in junior and in the minors.<br /><br />You're parent team has just lost their leading goal scorer for 4-6 weeks.<br /><br />You're being called up and immediately being placed on the first line.<br /><br />You're Michael Grabner.<br /><br />It's the opportunity that every young hockey player waits for. You play your game, put up some numbers, and wait for your chance to play on the big squad to make a name for yourself.<br /><br />Most young players would make their debut with the third or fourth line. MAYBE, you get to play on the second line.<br /><br />But Michael Grabner gets to make his NHL debut playing on the Vancouver Canucks first line...talk about an opportunity.<br /><br />That's like a 16-year-old being handed the keys to a new BMW. <br /><br />"Have fun, just don't wreck it kid."<br /><br />He was terrible in the pre-season...management and fans were both disappointed in Grabner's production (or lack thereof)...but now thanks to an injury to Daniel Sedin, Grabner gets his 'big break.'<br /><br />It's not a 'produce or you're done' situation. If he plays five games and gets zero points, it won't be the end of the world. But, he sure won't endear himself to Mike Gillis and Alain Vignault, and his next chance, may be a long time coming.<br /><br />It's time for Michael Grabner to make some hay and get it done. <br /><br />Right now. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=79fMGoXiSq0">(CLICK HERE)</a><br /><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6198368347705493081.post-6895838199668695912009-10-13T19:02:00.001-07:002009-10-13T20:09:09.206-07:00BrockTalk Bites<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCfFtIQt_ySFuL5B_WefyPytoB_KiMtWmFWEolPi8HtHzKmB5ykaX84KkCCd4h-xq2Ek41Sl-rLAjj95FUeLPMdTlKJfEYBzV4nSOMR_oF0qSn91cqYRfi3mTUPaHvaZfTw2K6eAJLY4Oh/s1600-h/Bite-sized.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCfFtIQt_ySFuL5B_WefyPytoB_KiMtWmFWEolPi8HtHzKmB5ykaX84KkCCd4h-xq2Ek41Sl-rLAjj95FUeLPMdTlKJfEYBzV4nSOMR_oF0qSn91cqYRfi3mTUPaHvaZfTw2K6eAJLY4Oh/s320/Bite-sized.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392286640534325234" /></a><br />For years people have found a way to do just a little bit of work and pass it off as a fully thought out and complete piece.<br /><br />Television writers have the clip show.<br /><br />Musicians have the greatest hits cd.<br /><br />Heck, even retailers have the clearance rack.<br /><br />So I present to you, my first edition of BrockTalk Bites...a collection of a whole bunch of things happening in sports, and I'm just too lazy to write full articles about them! Must be the tryptophan.<br /><br />-If you missed the Monday Nighter between the Dolphins and the Jets...you missed a doozy! I was incredibly impressed with the 'Fins wildcat offence...how do you stop it?? The two headed monster of Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams (I'll call him BROLLIAMS!) was uber-impressive. Also Chad Henne looked great. And that Tony Sporano sure does sweat a lot! <br /><br />-ESPN's "C'Mon Man!" feature before the Monday Night Game is brilliant!<br /><br />-Vancouver Canucks Sami Salo, out 4-6 weeks with a knee injury. Salo is injured? Oh yes, and this just in, the world is round.<br /><br />-Those were some serious meltdowns in the MLB playoffs by the guys who are supposed to come through in the clutch...the closers. I'm talking Raiders of the Lost Ark 'melt your face off' meltdowns. Nathan, Papelbon, Street...GAG!<br /><br />-I've entered 3 hockey pools...I have no idea who I have anymore.<br /><br />-Denver Broncos are 5-0. WFT? I thought the Chargers were supposed to run away with the AFC West...it's now a must win for the Bolts vs. the Broncos on Monday Night. A 'must win' in October? It's true.<br /><br />-Derek Anderson goes 2 for 17 passing for the Browns versus the Bills, and he's KEEPING his job this week! Speaks volumes about what the Browns think of Brady Quinn.<br /><br />-Toronto Maple Leafs start the season 0-5-1. Everyone outside of the GTA (non-Leaf Nation members) is loving this.<br /><br />-Calgary Flames blow a 5-0 lead and lose to Chicago Monday night. If Kipprusoff can't get it done in net...they always have Curtis McIlhanney (yikes!)<br /><br />-From the 'well, DUH!' category...Tiger Woods, he's pretty clutch.<br /><br />-JaMarcus Russell's play is making a lot of people compare him to Ryan Leaf. Ugh. Not exactly what the Raiders envisioned when they drafted him #1 in 2007. It's time to put that experiment to bed. Paging Jeff Garcia...Jeff Garcia...please report to Oakland immediately.<br /><br />-Still can't believe that Allen Iverson will be in Memphis this year.<br /><br />-Sportsnet's new website is terrible. Horrendous actually.<br /><br />-Great to see Paul Kariya back and playing with the skill we're used to!<br /><br />-We should do all that we can to ensure Betty Fox lights the Olympic torch.<br /><br />-Happy Thanksgiving...and Bob Dylan has just released a Christmas album.<br /><br />-Bob...C'MON MAN!!!!!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/gundu1yLjWY&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/gundu1yLjWY&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />BrockTalkBrockTalkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17628458271650946049noreply@blogger.com0