My final article is on Deidre Freeman, a diver at the University of Iowa. Deidre's dream is to become an Olympic diver. She's already making waves in her sport (excuse the pun). Her freshman year at Iowa she led the team in one-meter and three-meter dives and recorded eight top-five finishes. As a sophomore she ranked eighth all-time at Iowa in one-meter diving and fifth all-time in three-meter diving. She was also an academic all-Big Ten letterwinner. Needless to say, she's holding her own in her family.
Although her dream to become an Olympian is an amazing feat, it only seems natural to her because both her parents went to the Olympic trials. Her mom competed in the high jump at the Canadian Olympic trials before the 1972 and 1976 Olympics. Her dad competed in U.S. pole vaulting trials in those years as well.
In celebration of this sporting family phenomenon I'm doing my blog component on famous kids of famous athlete parents. First I'll name off some famous father-son duos, next father-daughter and last, kids of famous athlete parents.
I also added on a few athete couples who are looking to have kids in the near future.
Like father like son-
1. Felipe Alou and Moises Alou (Baseball - MLB)
2. Bobby Bonds and Barry Bonds (Baseball - MLB)
3. Ralph Earnhardt, Dale Earnhardt and Dale Earnhardt Jr. (Racing - NASCAR)
4. Ken Griffey and Ken Griffey Jr. (Baseball - MLB)
5. Gordie Howe and Mark Howe (Hoceky - NHL & WHA)
6. Archie Manning, Peyton Manning and Eli Manning (Football - NFL)
7. Ken Norton and Ken Norton Jr. (Boxing)
8. Gilles Villeneuve and Jacques Villeneuve (Racing - F1)
9. Boby Hull and (Hockey - NHL)
10. Al Unser and (Racing - Indy Car)
11. Calvin Hill and Grant Hill (Football - NFL)
12. Yannick Noah and Joakim Noah (Tennis)
13. In Wright, Bradley Wright-Phillips and Shaun Wright (Soccer - PREM)
14. Yogi Berra, Dale Berra and Tim Berra (Baseball - MLB, Football - NFL)
15. Bill Walton and Luke Walton(Basketball - NBA)
16. Mario Andretti, Michael Andretti and Marco Andretti (Racing - Indy Car)
17. Lee Petty and Richard Petty (Racing - NASCAR)
18. Man o' War and War Admiral (Horse Racing)
19. Jimmy Walker and Jalen Rose (Basketball - NBA)
20. Bob Greise and Brian Greise (Football - NFL)
21. Joe Bryant and Kobe Bryant (Basketball)
Like father like daughter-
1. Muhammad Ali and Laila Ali (Boxing)
2. Nate Williams and Natalie Williams (Basketball - NBA & WNBA)
3. Valeri Liukin and Anna Kotchneva Liukin - Nastia Liukin (Gymnastics)
4. Michael Carter and Michelle Carter (Shot put)
5. Robbie Nay and Meagen Nay (Swimming)
Children of famous athletes -
1. Nancy Chaffee (Tennis) and Ralph Kiner (Baseball) - had three children before divorcing
2. Nadia Comaneci and Bart Conner (Gymnastics) - had a baby boy in 2006
3. Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi (Tennis) - have two children, Jaden Gil and Jaz
4. Mia Hamm (Soccer) and Nomar Garciaparra (Baseball) - gave birth to twin girls in 2007
5. Julianne McNamara (Gymnastics) and Todd Zeile (Baseball) - have four children
6. Ann Meyers (Basketball) and Don Drysdale (Baseball)- had three children
7. Kristi Yamaguchi (Ice Skating) and Bret Hedican (Hockey) - have two daughters
8. Sara Renner (Cross Country Skiing) and Thomas Grandi (Technical Skiing) - have a baby daughter named Aria
9. Gabrielle Reece (Volleyball) and Laird Hamilton (Surfing) - have a daughter named Reece
10. Jennie Finch (Softball) and Casey Daigle (Baseball) - have a young son called Ace
Kids soon...maybe -
1. Misty May (Volleyball) and Matt Treanor (Baseball)
2. Kerri Walsh and Casey Jennings (Volleyball)
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
December 16th, 2008 - Famous Sporting Families
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Deceber 12th, 2008 - That Time of Year Again
And the nominees are...
Goalkeepers: René Adler (Bayer 04 Leverkusen), Igor Akinfeev (PFC CSKA Moskva), Iker Casillas (Real Madrid CF), Petr Čech (Chelsea FC), Edwin van der Sar (Manchester United FC)
Right backs: Aleksandr Anyukov (FC Zenit St. Petersburg), José Boswingwa (Chelsea FC), Maicon (FC Internazionale Milano), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid CF), Bacary Sagna (Arsenal FC)
Left Backs: Joan Capdevila (Villarreal CF), Patrice Evra (Manchester United FC), Philipp Lahm (FC Bayern München), Giovanni van Bronckhorst (Feyenoord), Yuri Zhirkov (PFC CSKA Moskva)
Central Defenders: Jamie Carragher (Liverpool FC), Ricardo Carvalho (Chelsea FC), Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus), Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United FC), Carlos Marchena (Valencia CF), Pepe (Real Madrid CF), Carles Puyol (FC Barcelona), John Terry (Chelsea), Tomáš Ujfaluši (Club Atlético de Madrid), Nemanja Vidić (Manchester United FC)
Central Midfielders: Mehmet Aurélio (Real Betis Balompié), Xavi Hernández (FC Barcelona), Marcos Senna (Villarreal CF), Anatoliy Tymoshchuk (FC Zenit St. Petersburg), Konstantin Zyryanov (FC Zenit St. Petersburg)
Right Midfielders: Hamit Altıntop (FC Bayern München), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool FC), Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United FC), Bastian Schweinsteiger (FC Bayern München), Javier Zanetti (FC Internazionale Milano)
Left Midfielders: Andrés Iniesta (FC Barcelona), Franck Ribéry (FC Bayern München), Arjen Robben (Real Madrid CF), David Silva (Valencia CF), Wesley Sneijder (Real Madrid CF)
Attacking Midfielders: Andrei Arshavin (FC Zenit St. Petersburg), Michael Ballack (Chelsea FC), Cesc Fàbregas (Arsenal FC), Frank Lampard (Chelsea FC), Luka Modrić (Tottenham Hotspur FC)
Forwards: Emmanuel Adebayor (Arsenal FC), Sergio Agüero (Club Atlético de Madrid), Karim Benzema (Olympique Lyonnais), Alessandro Del Piero (Juventus), Daniel Güiza (Fenerbahçe SK), Zlatan Ibrahimović (FC Internazionale Milano), Lionel Messi (FC Barcelona), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United FC), Fernando Torres (Liverpool FC), David Villa (Valencia CF)
Coaches: Dick Advocaat (FC Zenit St. Petersburg), Luis Aragonés (Spain/ Fenerbahçe SK), Sir Alex Ferguson (Manchester United FC), Temuri Ketsbaia (Anorthosis Famagusta FC), Fatih Terim (Turkey)
Manchester United FC, the European champions, have the most nominees with seven and the Champions League runners-up Chelsea have six. UEFA Cup winners FC Zenit St. Petersburg earned five nominations along with Spanish champions Real Madrid CF. There are 20 clubs have players or coaches involved, while 14 members of Spain's UEFA EURO 2008™-winning squad, including coach Luis Aragonés, have been nominated.
And the winners are...(at least what I think they should be)
Goalkeeper: Igor Akinfeev - Youngest first-choice goalkeeper at UEFA EURO 2008 and UEFA European Championship semi-finalist with Russia.
Right back: José Boswingwa - Selected for Team of the Tournament at UEFA EURO 2008.
Left back: Philipp Lahm - Had a huge leadership presence for Germany as they reach final of UEFA EURO 2008. He scored late winning goal in his first at international level since 2006 FIFA World Cup opening match. In the semi-finals he wins Man of the Match award. Selected for UEFA Team of the Tournament.
Central defender: Tomáš Ujfaluši - Captain of Czech Republic at UEFA EURO 2008™ and made his UEFA Champions League debut at 30.
Central midfielder: Anatoliy Tymoshchuk - Led FC Zenit St. Petersburg to UEFA Cup win, UEFA Super Cup winner, and reached 80 international caps for Ukraine.
Right midfielder: Cristiano Ronaldo - His awards speak for themselves. UEFA Champions League winner and top scorer, Premier League champion and top scorer and England's Footballer of the Year.
Left midfielder: Wesley Sneijder - Two-time Man of the Match winner at UEFA EURO 2008. He always come up big when his team needs him. Example clincher wins: Villarreal CF and France. Amazingly returned earlier than expected from injury to win 49th and 50th caps for Netherlands in FIFA World Cup qualifying wins against Iceland and Norway.
Attacking midfielder: Andrei Arshavin - He was the Man of the Match in UEFA Cup final and led Russia to UEFA EURO 2008 semi-finals. Was also a finalist for the Ballon d'Or and FIFA World Player of the Year.
Forward: Lionel Messi - He's the best in the world.
Coach: Fatih Terim Takes - He took Turkey to UEFA EURO 2008™ semi-finals and inspired Turkey to three comeback victories. He has coached this team to be unbeaten in it's quest to the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Click here to actually vote for your favorite players at uefa.com. You have until January 12th to cast your real vote.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
December 6, 2008 - Inspirational Indeed
I needed a little inspiration to get me through this hell week of papers and final projects. This is what I found. Needless to say I got my butt in gear after I watched this.
Monday, November 17, 2008
November 17th, 2008 - Thanksgiving
In honor of the Thanksgiving holiday, I'm rating the traditional food 1 to 10. I'm an extremely picky eater, so my eating habits are a bit unconventional.
10. Yams. sick.
9. Cranberry sauce. It is a strong belief of mine that all berry's should be left in-tacked. No jams. No sauces. Especially when it comes from a can.
8. Turkey. I hate turkey. Come to think of it I'm not a fan of eating any type of bird. Chicken, turkey, duck, and pheasant are all unappetizing. It's to dry and only once in a great while does it taste even remotely good.
7. Gravy. Gravy's only one step up from turkey because I only eat the two together and I only do this when I have to. Just like turkey, gravy can be made very well or it can turn out like a totally disaster.
6. Rolls. Does this really need to be explained? Who doesn't like rolls?
5. Vegetables. Corn, green beans, carrots, or squash, whatever tickles your fantasy, they're all good.
4. Pecan pie. This was my Thanksgiving desert of choice until I warmed up to #3.
3. Pumpkin pie. The one task my dad has on Thanksgiving is to make the pies. He's the "pie man." Since I was the oldest out of my sisters I always helped him out. I always helped him but I never actually ate what we made. It looked gross. After 21 years of having a piece set in front of me by him I finally started to like it. Now, I'm obsessed.
2. Stuffing. The only downside to this food is that it was in #8.
1. Mashed potatoes. 100% hands down this is my favorite Thanksgiving food. I love carbs, so its no surprise that this is my top choice. I like mine with a dollop of butter and some salt and pepper. Mashed is my favorite style of potato, proceeding baked and French fried.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
November 12, 2008 - Flip-flops and bikinis…the basketball essentials
Everyday for three months I played basketball. It wasn't in a gym or in the park or even on a court for that matter. It was in my backyard.
It was the summer after everyone had got their drivers licenses. I'd already totaled my car, so I always had to call up my best friend Megan to come over and hang out. 
We'd grown up together; first grade school, then middle school and finally high school. In the summers we played on the same club basketball team.
She'd pull up in her mom's purple minivan with Nelly blasting from the open windows. I had a pool in my backyard, so the first thing we'd do is get in our bikinis and hop in. We'd get cool and do all those dumb water games like Marco polo and handstand contests.
After awhile we'd get out, slip on our flip-flops and head for my cul-de-sac. My dad had put a basketball hoop at one end of it just barely touching the grass. The only line we used was stick we'd taped down to the ground about where the free-throw line should be.
Meg and I would play for hours. One-on-one. Horse. Round the world. When we'd get hot we'd jump in the pool for a few minutes, get back out and play again. It was a blast. We did it everyday.
She plays in college now at a small D-3 school in Wisconsin. When I called her up to ask her what her favorite memory of the sport was, her answer surprised me. It wasn’t winning the only conference championship ever in our high school's history. It wasn’t becoming a captain as a junior. It wasn’t even getting a scholarship to play ball. Her best memory was our summer one-on-one's. Our flip-flops and bikinis.
Monday, November 10, 2008
November 11, 2008 - Glog - Iowa vs. Penn State
Penn State vs. Iowa
I’m currently in Green Bay for the Wisconsin State volleyball tournament, so unfortunately I can’t make the Penn State vs. Iowa game. It’s been the most talked about event for the past couple weeks and frankly it sucks that I’m missing it.
I DVR’d the game, so I can watch it on Monday when I get back.
So without further ado here is: Penn State vs. Iowa.
-----
It’s almost like a fairy tale that Joe Pa is finally getting an underdog season after so long.
According the announcer “the fur and feathers [are] set to fly.”
On second thought. I’m kind of glad I’m not there. To cold.
Bob Griese and Brad Nessler are the announcers. Both are looking snazzy in black trenches. They look like FBI agents.
Joe Pa is coaching from the box for the fifth week in a row.
The Sling Box commercial is hilariously funny. The Dr. Pepper one, not so much.
------
First Quarter
15:00 – Kickoff. It’s so windy that they have to hold the ball on the tee.
14:56 – Clark get’s leveled on the first play and then again on the second. Both passes are incomplete. It’s a good start for the Hawks.
14:42 – The third play of the game and Penn State fumbles...maybe. It’s being reviewed.
After review: 4th down Penn State. Punting out of the end zone. This should be interesting.
14:29 –Mitch King needs to cut his hair. It makes me want to grow my hair out again.
14:05 – Touchdown Iowa!!!! It only took three plays to shut down Penn State and then only two Greene running downs for Iowa to score.
Hold on. The fire alarm is going off. Be right back.
Sorry. To many candles.
13:03 – Evan Royster runs for Penn State’s first first down. They should take a cue from Iowa and run it more often. The wind is too strong (gusts up to 30 miles per hour) to throw.
12:14 – “Iowa is home cookin’ with Shawn Greene.”
11:12 – Penn State gets another first down. Once again it was done by Royster‘s running.
10:10 – Second and 2. Derrick Williams makes a reception for the first down. Penn State’s on the 38 yard line in Iowa territory.
They’re showing King getting his team pumped up before the game.
8:19 – Second and 10. Royster runs it again to the 19. He’s now rushed for 1,000 yards this season.
8:05 - Third and 4 Penn State. This is big. First down Penn State. They ran it again. Penn State is now in the red zone where they’re 44/47.
6:33 – Clayborn hits the runner in the backfield. It’s now Third and goal Penn State.
5:40 – The pass into the end zone is incomplete but there’s a flag on the pay. Pass interference Iowa. The ball is now on Iowa’s 2-yard line.
4:47 – Third and goal. Royster is hit in the backfield again. The most important three plays yet for Iowa and they come up big on all of them. Penn State will kick the field goal.
4:11 - Iowa 7 Penn State 3
Who would have thought that Ronald Reagan ate at the Hamburg Inn? Not me. I guess I shouldn’t be surprised though. President Bush came to my hometown in Wisconsin and went to the small candy shop there. It was a huge deal. Tons of secret service everywhere.
4:06 - O’Meara takes the kickoff out to the Iowa 39.
3:27 – Greene runs the ball on Second and 2. He didn’t gain anything.
2:40 – Stanzi throws the ball out of bounds after some pressure from the Penn State defense. Iowa’s forced to punt
Commercial time – I like Michael Phelps but he’s getting a bit old. How many advertisements is he doing?
2:38 – Donahue just kicked it into the crowd. It’s spotted at the 25-yard line of Penn State.
2:04 – Penn State has 7 first downs to Iowa’s 2 today. William’s has really become the work horse for Penn State’s running game.
1:23 – Second and 4. Royster runs for another first down.
00:12 – Williams runs for a Penn State first down to end the quarter. Iowa is still leading 7 to 3.
If I see this Dr. Pepper commercial one more time I’m going to scream.
Second Quarter
14:57 – Clark ran it for the first down. Nice start for Penn State.
It seems a bit unfair that Iowa gets little sideline heaters and Penn State doesn’t. The advantage of being the home team.
13:45 – Clark completes a pass to Butler for a Penn State first down. The ball’s now on Iowa’s 15-yard line.
13:12 – Incomplete pass but there’s a holding penalty on Fletcher. First down for Penn State again.
12:36 – Touchdown Penn State!!! Royster ran it in for the score to take the lead. They kick the extra point for the lead.
Penn State 10 Iowa 7
12:27 – Hampton runs the kick back to the 31-yard line of Iowa territory.
12:15 – I suck at the Aflac Trivia questions. I never get them. Never even close.
11:29 – Nice blocking by the Iowa line. Greene has huge holes to run through. The running game is going to need to stay as good as it has been all season to win this game.
10:00 - Greene runs it out to the 39-yard line to make it third and 2.
9:45 – A defensive lineman for Penn State slaps the ball out of Stanzi’s hands. The quarterback jumps on top of it, but it’s now fourth and 4 for Iowa. They’ll have to kick.
9:06 – Penn State works it to their 10-yard line.
8:26 – Royster makes picks up another first down.
7:05 – Clark competes a pass to Williams. He’s all over the place. Running. Catching. The guy seems like he’s almost unstoppable.
Nile Kinnick is the answer to the Aflac trivia question. Who would’ve known?
5:51 – Clark scrambles yet again. He’s had a lot of pressure on him today. Iowa is doing a really nice job of keeping him on his toes and disrupting the passing plays.
4:45 – Clark throws it away again to make it second and 10.
4:09 – Penn State has ran 30 rushing plays and only 11 passing. The play calling is paying off for them.
3:27 – Clark completes a first down pass. Another long drive by Penn State has again ended up deep in Iowa territory.
3:00 - Clark completes another pass. He had all day. Happy feet. Happy feet.
1:42 – Royster is tackled by Edds short of the first down. Holding on the Nittany Lions. It’s now second and 19.
1:13 – Clark has immense pressure and is force to through it away. King is all up in Clark’s grill.
1:00 – It’s fourth and 10. Penn State will attempt a field goal from the 31-yard line. It’s good.
Penn State 13 Iowa 7
00:51 – Timeout Iowa. Great more commericals.
Iowa’s fans look just as I suspected. They’re a weird mix of green and black. This would be the result of two unsuccessful attempts to get everyone to dress in the same color. Green representing Iowa running back Shawn Greene. Black to rival Penn State’s famed white out. Neither one worked to well.
0028: Iowa’s going for it. Stanzi completes a pass to make it a first down near the Iowa 50-yard line. Now there’s a timeout.
00:15 – Stanzi’s pass is tipped away from the Iowa receiver. It’s now second and 10.
00:11 – Koulianos catches Stanzi’s pass to put the ball in Penn State territory.
00:04 – Instead of Murray kicking the field goal, Iowa opts for a passing play. The quarter ends in a Stanzi sack.
At the end of the first half it’s: Penn State 13 Iowa 7
I’m going to get some pizza from the kitchen. Yumm. Maybe I’ll run down to the gas station and get a diet coke. Diet Coke’s the only think in this world that I truly need. It’s an addiction and it’s been going on for some year now.
Fast-forward to the second half. Here we go:
Third Quarter
15:00 – Hampton is brought down around the 20-yard line of Iowa.
14:51 – Brodell makes the catch at the 24-yard line to make it second and 4.
13:51 - Penn State has completely dominated the time of possession so far. 23:30 minutes to 6:30 minutes. Wow. This has allowed for 47 Penn State plays and only 15 Iowa ones. You’d think we’d see more of difference in the score looking at those stats.
13:30 – Iowa picks up a first down.
13:05 – Stanzi just though an interception. He was aiming for a one black jersey in a sea of white. It’s Penn State ball on the 30 of Penn State.
12: 59 – 17-yard pickup by Penn State. It looks like they’re going to drive it down just like they did in the first half.
11:58 – Second and 9. Royster is hit in the backfield yet again by Mitch King. He’s small but quick.
11:11 – Clark gets a pass off, but it’s short of the first down. It’s forth and 6.
10:35 – Penn State kick’s the field goal to make it 16 to 7.
I wonder who invented DVR. I mean it’s really quite amazing. My parents just got it for their tv. They love it. My mom would marry the guy who invented it.
They just showed the kicker hiding between a bunch of tv equipment trying to get out of the wind. He’s all wrapped up in a blanket and parka looking thing. Haha. I’d be right there next to him.
10:16 – The kick return gets out to about the 30-yard line of Iowa.
9:34 – Greene’s run’s get a few yards, but not enough for a first down. Penn State has really done a nice job of containing him today. He hasn’t been as big of a presence as he normally is.
8:47 – Stanzi throws for another first down. It’s a pick up of 9. Stanzi had a lot of open room to throw due to the rush.
8:31 – Stanzi makes a big throw to Stross to move it to the 39 yard line of Penn State.
7:47 – Greene runs it for 7 yards. Iowa’s gaining a lot of momentum. This is Iowa’s longest drive with 6 plays.
7:14 - Maybin comes in for Penn State to stop Greene in the backfield.
6:28 - Koulianos catches for another first down.
5:41 – Stanzi’s throw is almost intercepted by Sargent. That would have been an absolute heartbreaker for Iowa.
Josh Gaines for Penn State rolled his ankle a couple plays ago and is now trying to loosen it up on the sidelines.
4:55 – Third down and long. Stanzi goes deep to Koulainos for the….TOUCHDOWN!!! He was wide open. He just walked right into the end zone. The extra point is good. The gap is now narrowed to make it Penn State 16, Iowa 14.
That touchdown was huge. This drive was a huge momentum switch from Penn State to Iowa.
4:39 – Clark’s throw is dropped to make it second and 10.
4:02 – Third and 6 on the Penn State 40. Clark is almost sacked, but he throws it as he’s going down and Iowa’s King almost gets an interception.
3:37 – The Penn State punt ends up at the Iowa 16.
3:33 – Greene picks up 5 yards.
2:57 – Iowa rushes Greene again, who gets a first down. The momentum has really changed to Iowa. The fans are all pumped up. It’s so loud in there.
2:27 – Iowa fumbles it and Penn State recovers. There’s a flag on the play. It’s on Iowa. That’s a huge blow to Iowa. Now Penn State has it in Iowa territory.
2:19 – Royster runs it within the 20-yard line. He run’s it again for the first down.
1:16 – Royster again. Penn State’s now on the 9-yard line.
00:35 – TOUCHDOWN by Williams. He had a huge hole to run through and it’s all because both Williams and Royster have been running so well today. Either one could have gotten the ball. It’s now 23 to 14 Penn State.
Bathroom break.
00:29 – After the kick Greene gets the handoff to make it second and 7.
It’s freezing in my apartment. I feel like I’m actually at the game. I’m wearing two pairs of socks, sweatpants and a sweatshirt. On top of that I’m wrapped in a blanket like the Penn State kicker. Apparently my roommates don’t believe in turning the heat on. To expensive. I mean once it drops blow 30 it’s gotta stop. I’m pretty sure that’s when hypothermia sets in.
Fourth quarter
14:51 – Moeaki runs it for Iowa. That’s a name I haven’t heard tonight. He got a first down.
14:20 – Back to Greene. He gets a gain of 3.
13:34 – It’s now fourth and 7. Iowa will be punting after two incomplete passes.
13:23 – The punt takes a nice Iowa roll deep into Penn State territory.
OMG this thing is long. If you are saintly enough to get though this I’ll bring you a cookie on Thursday. ☺
13:17 – Royster is stopped for little game.
Some Iowa student is wearing a Gang Greene t-shirt. That’s attractive.
12:35 – Clark goes deep to Norwood but it’s tipped up and incomplete.
12:27 – Penn State kicker Boone doesn’t get off a very good kick. It ends up at the Penn State 45-yard line.
11:42 – Greene gets nowhere once again. Godric from Penn State has been on him like white on rice all day.
10:56 – Stanzi completes it to tight end Brandon Myers for the first down. The tight ends have been virtually non-existent today.
9:49 – Greene has a great run to make it first and goal for Iowa.
9:48 – Greene runs it again and gets in for the touchdown!!! He doesn’t look like he’s in the best shape though after the points. He’s a little shaken up.
It’s now Penn State 23 Iowa 21. It’s a ballgame folks.
9:20 – Iowa’s kick is returned to the 26-yard line of Penn State.
9:14 – Royster only picks up three. Penn State is going to need to pick up some more points to seal the deal.
8:32 – Royster’s run is just short of the first down. It’s third and 1.
7:49 – Royster tries to run it again, but he’s stuffed at the line. With the clock running down and the crowd as loud as it can get, everything was going against Penn State.
6:58 – On the punt, Sandeman from Iowa got a piece for the kicker. It’s a roughing the passer foul to give the ball back to Penn State.
6:45 – Green for Penn State runs for the next first down.
6:19 – Williams throws the ball to link up with the tight end, Shuler to get yet another first down. That’s big. Penn State is now at the Iowa 25-yard line.
5:07 – Penn State is stuffed on the next two consecutive plays. It’s third and 14.
4:31 – Clark completes a pass, but there’s a flag down. Holding on the offense. Third and 24.
4:00 – Clark down the middle and it’s intercepted by Iowa. The wind really got under that one. It’s Iowa ball on the 30-yard line in Iowa territory.
3:11 – Greene drops the pass from Stanzi to make it third and 15.
2:59 – Stanzi’s throw is incomplete but it’s going to be pass interference on the defense. Automatic first down. That’s a big mistake. There was no way that Iowa was going to pick up that play. Penn State just handed the first down to them.
2:22 – Stanzi’s throw to Myer is a first down. Sorry this is so play by play, but it’s so crazy. Everything keeps happening.
1:43 – The crowd goes quite as the pass by Stanzi is almost intercepted.
1:40 – Greene just dropped his second pass in the quarter. It’s third and 10. Iowa needs a first down now.
1:37 – Myer’s comes up big again on another pass from Stanzi. He fought for that first down, dragging his tacklers a bit.
1:06 – My hands are cramping up from typing so fast. Stanzi completes another pass to Koulianos. It’s first and 10 Iowa.
1:01 –Greene gets a couple yards. Iowa timeout. It’s under a minute now.
I’m stuffing my face trying to eat my cold food for a second. Usually it’s more calm so I can take a couple bite now and then.
00:18 – Stanzi throws to Koulianos for the first down and Koulianos’ 7th catch of the day.
00:11 – Greene tries to rush the ball but he’s stopped in the backfield. Iowa takes a timeout. It looks like Iowa City native Daniel Murry is going to get his ten seconds of fame and try to kick a field goal for Iowa.
00:06 – Green picks up three more yards and puts the ball more in the center of the field.
It’s third and 9. Daniel Murry will kick the field goal. Penn State calls a timeout in an attempt to ice him. We’ll see if it works.
Murry is one of 7 players on the Iowa roster from Iowa City. He’s a sophomore.
Here’s the 31 yard kick….. it’s goooooooood!!!!!!
Iowa’s going to win 24 to 23. The fans are going crazy and running onto the field but there is still 01 seconds left. Now everyone scatters to get off the field.
There’s a kickoff from the 15-yard line. It’s a squib. Iowa recovers and wins.
Everyone’s storming the field while the band plays “In heaven there is no beer.” This is Iowa’s first top ten upset since 1990. It’s a stunner.
Final score:
Iowa 24
Penn State 23
Friday, November 7, 2008
November 7th, 2008 - David Beckham
Fifth player review - David Beckham
He's arguably the most known player in soccer. He has always been a good scorer and a fan favorite. Among his many accomplishments he has been captain of England's national team, scored goals in three different FIFA World Cups and played in England, Spain and America.
After finishing up at Real Madrid Beckham did the unthinkable. He went to America to play soccer. Of course there was some money involved. He signed a contract with the LA Galaxy where he could make an approximately $250 million within his 5 year contract.
Even though he's playing in the U.S., Beckham still misses Europe. On October 30th Beckham confirmed that he will be playing for AC Milan on loan from his U.S. club.
Does this mean that Beckham wishes he was back in Europe? Does he regret selling his soul to the Americans? I think he does. He's seen the style of MLS soccer and it doesn't compare to the European. The money's great, but if the competition sucks it's not worth it.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
November 6th, 2008 - UEFA Championship league
The group stages of the UEFA Championship league has been going on since mid September but has been settled yet. This tournament is the ultimate clashing of titans. The group stage ends in on the 10th of December, so this is a perfect midway point to scout out what's happening in the groups. Below is a tidbit about the leaders of the groups and what to look for.
Group A
Group B
Internazionale- Although Internazionale is the current top club in group B (and rightfully so), it may not last for long. Any one of the clubs could ultimately win the group. The matchups have ended in multiple ties, and wins and losses for all clubs. Internazionale's tie with Anorthosis this past Tuesday shows that even though Internazionale is the leader right now, the winning position could ultimately go to anyone.
Group C
Barcelona- Throughout group play so far two teams have dominated,
Group D
Atletico and
Group
Man.
Group F
Lyon and Bayern - Like many other groups there is a tie for the lead. I have to say I'm a bit surprised that Bayern has done as well as they are, but I'm glad
Group G
Arsenal - Arsenal is leading but the group is in a tight race for the lead. I'd expected Arsenal to do better than they have, but their big players haven't delivered as much as they should have. They've made good opportunities for themselves, however they haven't been able to capitalize. I think they'll inevitably win the group, but they need to pull their team together.
Group H
Juventus - The standings in this group are really surprising to me. I expected Real Madrid to be closer in points to Juventus or even flip flopped, but not 4 points down. The fact that Real Madrid lost twice to Juventus shows just how overrated they really are. In the end Del Piero is just too good. I'm surprised that things played out how they did, but I can't say I'm not pleased.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
October 28th, 2008 - Top 10 Soccer Commericals
I have major issues with procrastination. Homework and housework are always put off until the last possible minute, while I bide my time doing more important things...like surfing youtube. I've seriously got a disease. I look at one video and I can't stop myself. It's like chocolate. So as a tribute to my problem, I decided to grace you all with my top 10 favorite soccer commercials. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.
10. Kung fu Soccer - 2003 FIFA Women's World Cup
The top 10 list was supposed to be a list of just men's soccer videos, but I couldn't resist.
9. It's a whole new ballgame - Gatorade
I've always liked this one because of the cool footage that goes along with it. Whenever you typically see soccer advertisements they're full of fast pace moves. This one takes a step away from that and it really works.
8. Airport scene - Nike
Typical soccer ad, but it's amazing just the same.
7. Never Grow Up - Joga TV
For some weird reason I like the creepy old narrator. I don't know if it's his accent or the message that he's sending, but I enjoy it. There's actually a series of Joga TV videos with him as the narrator and they're pretty good to.
6. Beckham's Bad Day - Pepsi
There are a couple of ads with this kid knocking Beckham, but this is my favorite. You think the kid is going to give Beckham this huge compliment, and instead he plays dirty.
5. Henry's House - Nike
Henry is one of those quiet, humble guys that you don't see in a ton of commercials, which is why I like this one so much. He's one of my favorite players. I just go into a daze watching this.
4. Touch of Gold - Nike
I've put this ad up on my blog before, but it's in my top 10 none-the-less. He's amazing, period.
3. Take it to the Next Level - Nike
The way this ad is shot is my favorite part. It puts you in this person's spot and makes you live their life. You smile with "you" do something good and frown when "you" do something bad. Nice work Nike. I clearly like you the best.
2. One Game Changes Everything - 2006 FIFA World Cup
A really good feel good promo for the games and soccer in general. It truly is the world's sport.
1. Jose +10 - Adidas
My favorite soccer commercial of all time. Hands down.
Which one's your favorite?
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Friday, October 24, 2008
October 24th, 2008 - Wayne Rooney
Fourth player review - Wayne Rooney
Wayne Rooney has always been one of my favorite players. He's young, extremely talented and has slowly worked his way up to the top of one of Europe's most known clubs, Manchester United.
Rooney was signed by Everton on schoolboy terms at the age of ten (he was on the Youth team and playing for 80 Euro a week). After moving up to the professional league, Rooney was celebrated as the stand out star of his team. Although Everton didn't want to give him up, over time Rooney wanted to move on to clubs that were more competitive. At age 19, he debuted for his current club Manchester United, scoring a hat trick and an assist.
With his explosive talent also came his immense immaturity. Rooney is famous for his sarcastic comments to coaches, referees and players, making him both hated and loved. His cocky attitude has quitted down in the last couple of years, which is necessary if he wants to gain the respect that his talent deserves. No one likes a player who thinks he never makes a mistake. It's good that he's finally manning up.
Most recently Rooney has really stepped up into the leader position for both club and country. His goal against Celtic FC on Wednesday was his ninth in his last seven appearances for both teams. If Rooney keeps playing well up top with teammate Dimitar Berbatov, Man U will be a sure competitor in the Championship League.
October 24th, 2008 - International Blind Sports Federation
While browsing uefa.com an unusual soccer headline caught my eye.
Blind futsal seminars a success
First thing I did after reading the article was look up what the heck futsal was. Futsal is basically indoor soccer with a different setup and rules than American indoor soccer. It does not have walls or boards, has limited lines, and uses a smaller, less bouncy ball.
The article was about recent seminars for coaches and referees in futsal for the blind and the partially sighted. The seminars were part of the UEFA-funded International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) Futsal Development Project Europe. 
The conferences were composed of hypothetical and realistic sessions in blind futsal. The seminar was the biggest IBSA blind futsal conference in history.
The article triggered an interest in blind and partially sighted soccer and other athletics. I've never heard of it before, and to be frank, I've never even thought of it before.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
December 16th, 2008 - Famous Sporting Families
My final article is on Deidre Freeman, a diver at the University of Iowa. Deidre's dream is to become an Olympic diver. She's already making waves in her sport (excuse the pun). Her freshman year at Iowa she led the team in one-meter and three-meter dives and recorded eight top-five finishes. As a sophomore she ranked eighth all-time at Iowa in one-meter diving and fifth all-time in three-meter diving. She was also an academic all-Big Ten letterwinner. Needless to say, she's holding her own in her family.
Although her dream to become an Olympian is an amazing feat, it only seems natural to her because both her parents went to the Olympic trials. Her mom competed in the high jump at the Canadian Olympic trials before the 1972 and 1976 Olympics. Her dad competed in U.S. pole vaulting trials in those years as well.
In celebration of this sporting family phenomenon I'm doing my blog component on famous kids of famous athlete parents. First I'll name off some famous father-son duos, next father-daughter and last, kids of famous athlete parents.
I also added on a few athete couples who are looking to have kids in the near future.
Like father like son-
1. Felipe Alou and Moises Alou (Baseball - MLB)
2. Bobby Bonds and Barry Bonds (Baseball - MLB)
3. Ralph Earnhardt, Dale Earnhardt and Dale Earnhardt Jr. (Racing - NASCAR)
4. Ken Griffey and Ken Griffey Jr. (Baseball - MLB)
5. Gordie Howe and Mark Howe (Hoceky - NHL & WHA)
6. Archie Manning, Peyton Manning and Eli Manning (Football - NFL)
7. Ken Norton and Ken Norton Jr. (Boxing)
8. Gilles Villeneuve and Jacques Villeneuve (Racing - F1)
9. Boby Hull and (Hockey - NHL)
10. Al Unser and (Racing - Indy Car)
11. Calvin Hill and Grant Hill (Football - NFL)
12. Yannick Noah and Joakim Noah (Tennis)
13. In Wright, Bradley Wright-Phillips and Shaun Wright (Soccer - PREM)
14. Yogi Berra, Dale Berra and Tim Berra (Baseball - MLB, Football - NFL)
15. Bill Walton and Luke Walton(Basketball - NBA)
16. Mario Andretti, Michael Andretti and Marco Andretti (Racing - Indy Car)
17. Lee Petty and Richard Petty (Racing - NASCAR)
18. Man o' War and War Admiral (Horse Racing)
19. Jimmy Walker and Jalen Rose (Basketball - NBA)
20. Bob Greise and Brian Greise (Football - NFL)
21. Joe Bryant and Kobe Bryant (Basketball)
Like father like daughter-
1. Muhammad Ali and Laila Ali (Boxing)
2. Nate Williams and Natalie Williams (Basketball - NBA & WNBA)
3. Valeri Liukin and Anna Kotchneva Liukin - Nastia Liukin (Gymnastics)
4. Michael Carter and Michelle Carter (Shot put)
5. Robbie Nay and Meagen Nay (Swimming)
Children of famous athletes -
1. Nancy Chaffee (Tennis) and Ralph Kiner (Baseball) - had three children before divorcing
2. Nadia Comaneci and Bart Conner (Gymnastics) - had a baby boy in 2006
3. Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi (Tennis) - have two children, Jaden Gil and Jaz
4. Mia Hamm (Soccer) and Nomar Garciaparra (Baseball) - gave birth to twin girls in 2007
5. Julianne McNamara (Gymnastics) and Todd Zeile (Baseball) - have four children
6. Ann Meyers (Basketball) and Don Drysdale (Baseball)- had three children
7. Kristi Yamaguchi (Ice Skating) and Bret Hedican (Hockey) - have two daughters
8. Sara Renner (Cross Country Skiing) and Thomas Grandi (Technical Skiing) - have a baby daughter named Aria
9. Gabrielle Reece (Volleyball) and Laird Hamilton (Surfing) - have a daughter named Reece
10. Jennie Finch (Softball) and Casey Daigle (Baseball) - have a young son called Ace
Kids soon...maybe -
1. Misty May (Volleyball) and Matt Treanor (Baseball)
2. Kerri Walsh and Casey Jennings (Volleyball)
Saturday, October 18, 2008
October 18th, 2008 - Mascot Anyone?
Earlier this week I began to think about mascots. More specifically mascots and soccer. The majority of professional sports teams have these creepy oversized emblems, who's sole purpose is to annoy fans with stupid cheers and weird antics. 
The West Virginia Power Pack (above), from Minor League Baseball is exactly why I cringe every time a mascot comes around (http://xrl.us/oucf6).
I think they're strange and unnecessary elements of the games. My roommate Sam agrees.
"They freak me out! They can see through their mouths!" Besides the fact that they apparently "eat people", they're seemingly synonymous with sports.
The NBA, MLB and even the NHL have them. So why doesn't soccer?
The massive amounts of fans make their own fun without the need of any unnatural looking creatures. These soccer fans entertain themselves with flags, drums and non-stop chants. There's never a dull moment, so there's no need for a mascot to pump up the crowd.
Can you imagine a red speckled dinosaur dancing around on the sidelines of an AC Milan game? I daresay they would get no attention from both the fans and the camera.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
October 16th, 2008 - Cristiano Ronaldo
Third player review - Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the best current players on the field. He has won both the Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year awards. The Manchester United wing is the star of his team and a huge leader on offense.
Ronaldo is also slowly becoming just as famous outside the pitch. During his trip to Los Angeles in July, he was immediately swarmed by paparazzi. Every move was continuously catalogued and scrutinized. Since then Ronaldo's new found celebrity has only grown. He has even been compared to David Beckham, who has become almost more famous off the field than on it. So will Ronaldo follow suit?
His coach doesn't seem to think so and neither do I. Ronaldo is to smart to let it all the fame go to his head. He has always been known on the field as a superstar. Why should it go to his head now?
Monday, October 13, 2008
October 13th, 2008 - America's new pasttime?
Everyone knows that the popularity of soccer in the U.S. is nothing compared to football, basketball, baseball, and even hockey. I don't expect soccer to become as celebrated as some of these sports, however I do think that with some improvements, it could really catch on in the States. Here is my list of "things-to-do" to make soccer more popular in the U.S.:
First thing - Make it more entertaining
To do this the MLS has to pump more talent into the league. Getting players from overseas, like Figo and Del Piero would draw a lot more fans to the game. Take David Beckham for example. It took the LA Galaxy $250 million dollars to get him over here, but it lead to an increase in fan base for both the MLS and LA. With these players comes respectability, which in my opinion the MLS doesn't have. Sure they've turned out players like Donovan and Beasley, who have got their start in the U.S., but it's still nothing compared to the European leagues. These players will bring an excitement to the game that has never been seen in U.S. soccer.
Second thing - $$$
In order to keep luring players to the MLS, the teams are going to need more money. It’s that cut and dry. Football, basketball and baseball backers constantly plug more money into their teams. I think that MLS needs some sugar daddy’s go really get the ball rolling. Especially with today’s economy, I know that this will not be an easy task, however it’s necessary for soccer’s popularity to improve. People like to be entertained when they come to a game. This includes an atmosphere that includes more bells and whistles. And they aren’t cheap.
Third thing - Building up the teams
The European and South American leagues have lower level clubs that allow players to move up through the ranks and improve their skills. The U.S. doesn't have this...until now? The Official site of U.S. Soccer reports that the Development Academy is adding more 12 more clubs to the U.S. soccer scene to allow more players the opportunity to develop their skills. The Academy started in 2007 with 72 teams nationwide. The organization is not only adding more clubs, but also more scouts. This is a HUGE boost for the popularity of soccer in the U.S. The Academy is similar to European set-ups because it casts a wider net to catch more potential players and coaches. Players don't have to rely as much on their accomplishments in small club and school teams, which only lasts a few years. Now they can join a younger club and work their way up to a higher skill and age level.
For more information about the Development Academy click here.
Fourth thing - More mainstream media attention
I’m not expecting this to change anytime soon, however I do think that if mainstream media, like ESPN, would cover more soccer the popularity would increase. I know that they do play soccer, but it’s usually at really weird times during the day when no one is going to watch it. If they played a few more MLS, international and Euro league games, people would get more interested. Maybe the media could even replay some famous games, like the World Cup finals or the U.S. women winning the World Cup. That’s what ESPN classic is for.
Friday, October 10, 2008
October 10th, 2008 - Kaka
Second player review - Kaka
Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite, better known by his nickname Kaka, is one of the best players to ever come out of Brazil. He came onto the club scene in 2001 and moved from São Paulo to AC Milan. He still plays on AC Milan, as well as on the Brizilian National team. 
Kaka shows his amazing skill for the game time and time again, constantly coming up big for his team. By playing the attacking midfielder position he is a very strong threat on offense. His play complients his other teammates up top by steping up and scoring goals when he needs to, but fading into the background and playing the supporting roll as well.
Even though he's 27-years-old, I see him playing for a much longer time. He's in good shape and a hardworker, which will enable him to stay on top of his game. Soccer audiences will be seeing him for a very long time.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
October 9th, 2008 - The David of the World Cup?
There are a lot of teams that are always expected to compete in the World Cup. Italy, Brazil, France, and Germany. These are usually the some of these favorites. But what about the smaller countries? The ones that overlooked by the untrained eye? Countries like...Cyprus.
The country of only 754,064 people is much different than these other counties not only in size and population, but also in the fact that their national team has never been to a World Cup. They've been attempting to qualify since 1962, however not until this year have their chances been so high. At least their head coach Angelos Anastasiadis thinks so.
Although they loss their first qualifying match to Italy 2-1, they made a very strong showing. The fans and players are optimistic even after the loss, comforted by the fact that earlier this year, the Anorthosis Club team became the first team from Cyprus to qualify for the group stages of the UEFA Champions League.
Cyprus played exceptionally well earlier this year in their push to make UEFA Euro 2008, winning four matches and coming to a draw against Germany (Germany later when on to play in the final). These games may be a glimmer of what is to come later in the World Cup qualifying matches against Georgia and Republic of Ireland. Cyprus really needs to win these two upcoming games in order to make it. They need to look past their recent injuries and unsuccessful World Cup history and focus at the task at hand.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
October 7th, 2008 - Moving to the MLS?
Over the years well known European and South American players have come to the MLS after their careers have gone south. The most notable of these players is David Beckham whose fame and fortune has both grown extensively. It's only a matter of time before more famous Europeans follow his lead. Here are some players that I think will move over to the MLS in the upcoming years:
Luis Figo (35 yrs.)
Figo was one of Italy's most talented and famous players. He was named FIFA World Player of the Year in 2001 and has played on the national team numerous times. Although Figo is still one of Italy's biggest names, all stars fade with time. Figo is currently playing with Inter Milan as of June 2008, however he only has a one year contract with them. I think that after this season is done there is a strong possibility he's going to the MLS. He isn't playing at as high a level as he once was and I think he'd still be a very strong contender in the US.
Alessandro Del Piero (33 yrs.)
Del Piero fought hard to make the 2008 Italian National team, but the hard work seems like it was all for nothing. The striker has been left off the Italian squad for the next two upcoming international games. With his growing age and faltering fatigue Del Piero is a prime candidate for the MLS. He has a lot of experience playing the game and I think that he would be a real leader on one of the the teams in the US. His career in Italy is on a downslope, so if he wants to keep playing he needs to look for different outlets for his famous talent.
Joe Cole (26 yrs.) Since Cole was a teen he has played for professional soccer teams in England. He knows the sport as good or better than many of his collegues, however he has not always been able to deliver the best results. Over the years he has bounced between being an outstanding and hardworking leader of his team and being a lazy benchwarmer. Although Cole has really picked up his game in recent months, I think his career would really benifit from going overseas. He is a known player, so the recognition would earn him a starting spot and some decent cash. If he keeps up the hard work we've seen recently he can really shine in the MLS.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
October 2nd, 2008 - Joe Cole
Like many other soccer players, Joe Cole was discovered at an early age. He was the product of the West Ham United youth soccer program and quickly rose to West Ham’s first team. His style is similar to that of Ronaldinho, incorporating flashy aggressive moves into his game.
While on West Ham’s first team he also made eight appearances for the English under-21 national team. Even though he had a strong offensive game, Cole struggled at getting back on defense. Because of this, he frequently came in off the bench.
Cole eventually moved even farther up the West Ham and English national team ladder, becoming the captain of the West Ham Club 2003 and a substitute on the National team. The midfielder continued to struggle to make the starting team against other players, failing to work as hard as them.
After moving to
His aggressive offensive and defensive play really keeps his opponents on their toes, always making them wonder what he will do next. In recent games Cole has become a real leader on
Cole has really come into his element in the past couple years and he can only go up from here. As he becomes more comfortable with his new role on the team he will have more of a presence on the field. In the future I see him as a formidable force to be reckoned with, however only if he stays fit and on the top of his offensive and defensive game.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
September 27th, 2008 - The Big Four
While Manchester United, Chelsea FC and Liverpool FC came out on top on Saturday, the other top ranked English team vying for the UEFA Champions League title fell. Arsenal FC lost 2-1 to Hull City AFC yesterday, making it their first home game loss since April 2007.
Arsenal couldn’t handle Hull’s physical play or their aggressive attacking offense. Although Arsenal had more time of possession in the first half, they couldn’t pull it together and beat the strong Hull defense. The loss is a big blow to Arsenal, dropping them from first to fourth standings in the league.
Arsenal is not out of the championship race by any means, however they really need some big wins to keep them up on top. Man U, Chelsea and Liverpool are playing very good soccer and with the lost to Hull, Arsenal needs to keep their confidence up.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
September 25, 2008 - New Addition
Today marks the first Thursday that I will bring a new feature into my blog. Every Thursday I will be reviewing a player from one of the European leagues, including their past, present and future accomplishments and pitfalls.
First player review - Sotiris Ninis
This youngster (shown on the left in image from www.extra-football.com) is making headlines this week by becoming the highest paid 18-year-old in Greek football. Yesterday Ninis extended his contract with Panathinaikos FC by four years.
Ninis came on the scene in 2003 when he started playing for one of the younger teams within PAO (Panathinaikos FC). The Albanian born player always had an intense passion for futbol and was the star of his school team.
Even at his young age, Ninis already has numerous records to his name. In January 2007 he first etched his name into the record books by becoming the second youngest player to play in the Greek Superliga. He was just 16 years old.
Only 20 days later, Ninis broke another record, becoming the youngest player in history to score in a Greek championship.
Since these early record moments Ninis has become a fan favorite in Greece, captivating fans with his speed and skill. In Greece his moves have been compared to Messi, however at his young age he still has a lot learning to do.
Even though he's inexperienced, he has shown that he can handle the pressure of the big games. He's scored in major games in both the Greek Superliga, as well as the Euro Cup. Unlike other adolescent players like Freddie Adu, Ninis has constantly lived up to his hype.
Other big name teams like Arsenal, Real Madrid and Manchester United have expressed interest in the Greek player, however after his recent contract extension with PAO, I don't think he's going anywhere to soon. The fact that he did resign with his original club is huge for both PAO and it's fans, and gives them all hopes of a sucessful future.
For more information about Ninis' contract, click here.
