2011 World Championships - Istanbul, Turkey - September 13, 2011
The women's freestyle team begins wrestling tomorrow. We have two wrestlers competing in what will be the first of three consecutive days of our women being on the mat. Clarissa Chun and Whitney Conder, 48 KG and 51 KG, respectively, are the first to go; they weighed-in today. Helen Maroulis, Kelsey Campbell and Elena Pirozkhova weigh-in tomorrow at 3:30 PM and compete on Thursday. My task for tomorrow is to make sure these three get down to weight and make it over to the venue in the afternoon. I have a good feeling about our women's team this year. They're ready to compete.
I had few more travel adventures today. In the morning, I went to the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) and the Grand Bazaar. The mosque was beautiful and much larger than I expected. It was facing the Hagia Sophia, which was equally as stunning. There is a storied history behind each landmark and both have Christian roots dating all the way back to the time of Constantine and Constantinople. There were a lot of tourists in the area because the Blue Mosque is Istanbul's most well-known attraction. The Grand Bazaar is also of great interest to those visiting the city. I wasn't all too impressed, though. It was a huge indoor maze of counterfeits and knock-offs. The vendors weren't extremely pleasant, either. Areas of it did smell fantastic because of the soaps and spices.
The part that became adventurous for me was when I decided to take a taxi (taksi) to the fitness center to meet Helen for a workout. I wanted to write my entire blog about this single event, but there were other important things from today. It lasted approximately 40 minutes. Let's just say, driving in reverse down a busy street, going the wrong way down a one way, "bumping" into pedestrians, making an unscheduled stop so the driver could settle an issue with a previous payment, going over 160 km/hr (~100 mph) and arriving 20 minutes late is about all I have space for tonight. It was crazy and very enjoyable. The driver, Ghengis, and I talked to each other the entire time despite not understanding each others' language. He was like my own tour guide and pointed out some of local's favorite places to be in Instanbul. It cost me $20, but I think I paid for the experience, not the transportation.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Monday, September 12, 2011
Mmm, Turkish street food
2011 World Championships - Istanbul, Turkey - September 12, 2011
I went to the arena today. Finally. Now, it feels like a wrestling trip. We had our first practice this morning before the first session of Greco-Roman. The Sinan Erdem (name of the venue) is quite spectacular. It's as large as any arena I've seen in the US and it had a great feel today. Those Turkish fans are excited!
Every trip/tour I'm a part of has its own unique feel. However, once we become aware of the culture and settle in, it quickly becomes business as usual. One of my favorite parts about tours is when we get on the mat for the first time. It's familiar territory and suddenly everything becomes clear. The wrestling circle is the same size everywhere in the world and the mats almost feel like a "sanctuary." Once the first workout is finished, we feel very comfortable. Even the city seems easier to navigate.
I'm very impressed with the locals here in Istanbul. They are extremely helpful and surprisingly nice. I was expecting a cold feeling from them, especially being American. It's been the exact opposite. Apparently, I look Turkish, but that's not why they're friendly. It's genuine. People make eye contact and smile and some even walk us to our destination - not all by our choice. I bought two bottles of counterfeit cologne/perfume today from a guy who insisted on walking with us. I bartered the guy down to the price of a Coke Light, so I figured they would be good gifts (don't tell anyone they're fakes). It happened on our way to the Grand Bazaar, which happened to be closed tonight. That's on the itinerary for tomorrow morning before a day full of practice, watching wrestling and making weight.
Dinner was an exciting time of the day for me. I ate dinner at a very hopping street vendor. The food was above average, but not out of this world. I had to experience it, though. Kabobs and a gyro-type thing that consisted of shaved lamb meat, fries and veggies all rolled into something that resembled a burrito. Stands like this one are literally on every street corner.
Something else that was interesting today was how an Iranian wrestler forfeited to an Israeli wrestler in the first round of competition. This happens frequently at international competitions. Since Iran doesn't recognize Israel as a country, they choose not to compete based on drastic political and religious difference. It was a little shocking that it actually happened today, though. This tournament has serious qualifying implications for the Olympic Games. In order to compete in the Olympics, countries are required to qualify each weight class in each style. The top 6 in this event earn a spot for the their country in the 2012 Games. The Iranian wrestler was almost a shoe-in to finish in the top 6, but he chose not to compete and did not place. The country will now have to qualify the weight through a difficult qualifying procedure. There are certainly bigger things in life than wrestling, but come on, this is the World Championships and there were plenty of "outs" before you got to the biggest stage on Earth.
I went to the arena today. Finally. Now, it feels like a wrestling trip. We had our first practice this morning before the first session of Greco-Roman. The Sinan Erdem (name of the venue) is quite spectacular. It's as large as any arena I've seen in the US and it had a great feel today. Those Turkish fans are excited!
Every trip/tour I'm a part of has its own unique feel. However, once we become aware of the culture and settle in, it quickly becomes business as usual. One of my favorite parts about tours is when we get on the mat for the first time. It's familiar territory and suddenly everything becomes clear. The wrestling circle is the same size everywhere in the world and the mats almost feel like a "sanctuary." Once the first workout is finished, we feel very comfortable. Even the city seems easier to navigate.
I'm very impressed with the locals here in Istanbul. They are extremely helpful and surprisingly nice. I was expecting a cold feeling from them, especially being American. It's been the exact opposite. Apparently, I look Turkish, but that's not why they're friendly. It's genuine. People make eye contact and smile and some even walk us to our destination - not all by our choice. I bought two bottles of counterfeit cologne/perfume today from a guy who insisted on walking with us. I bartered the guy down to the price of a Coke Light, so I figured they would be good gifts (don't tell anyone they're fakes). It happened on our way to the Grand Bazaar, which happened to be closed tonight. That's on the itinerary for tomorrow morning before a day full of practice, watching wrestling and making weight.
Dinner was an exciting time of the day for me. I ate dinner at a very hopping street vendor. The food was above average, but not out of this world. I had to experience it, though. Kabobs and a gyro-type thing that consisted of shaved lamb meat, fries and veggies all rolled into something that resembled a burrito. Stands like this one are literally on every street corner.
Something else that was interesting today was how an Iranian wrestler forfeited to an Israeli wrestler in the first round of competition. This happens frequently at international competitions. Since Iran doesn't recognize Israel as a country, they choose not to compete based on drastic political and religious difference. It was a little shocking that it actually happened today, though. This tournament has serious qualifying implications for the Olympic Games. In order to compete in the Olympics, countries are required to qualify each weight class in each style. The top 6 in this event earn a spot for the their country in the 2012 Games. The Iranian wrestler was almost a shoe-in to finish in the top 6, but he chose not to compete and did not place. The country will now have to qualify the weight through a difficult qualifying procedure. There are certainly bigger things in life than wrestling, but come on, this is the World Championships and there were plenty of "outs" before you got to the biggest stage on Earth.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Istanbul, we have arrived!
2011 World Championships - Istanbul, Turkey - September 10-11, 2011
My first entire day in Istanbul is in the books and I'm ready for some much needed sleep. I caught a short nap on the plane ride, but that's been all I've had since I left my house at 6:00 AM on Saturday morning. I did have a great flight followed by an eventful day, so I'm glad I've stayed awake.
The flight from New York to Istanbul took close to 10 hours. Over half of my time was spent talking to my extraordinary 81-year old neighbor. She's the epitome of a world traveler and is on her way to the Holy Land by way of Istanbul on a cruise ship. She was a fascinating woman who was full knowledge and life. In addition to her wonderful traveling stories around the entire world, her first husband was a B-17 navigator. My grandfather was a B-17 pilot so we had a lot to talk about. We shared many similar interests when it came to American history, especially WWII, and politics. It was a very enriching experience for me and I reveled in the moment. It's not too often that I get uninterrupted conversations of the kind. It inspired me to make more time for conversations like this with my grandma. This woman is indeed a superstar traveler.
My own travels went without a hitch this time, which is uncharacteristic of my trips. Well, I guess it went without a hitch today...not so much yesterday. I arrived in Istanbul, found a ride to the hotel immediately and spent the day exploring our routes to and from the airport, venue, mall and other hotel. There were some unforeseen adventures, but that just gives more substance to the experience. In a way, it becomes a journey. I was very happy when I finally saw the rest of the team, coaches and team leaders. We have an amazing delegation. Our team leader, chiropractor, athletic trainer and coaches are like a family. It makes everything a lot more fun, that's for sure.
I have accepted that I'm going to be comedic relief for many others on this trip because of my passport debacle from yesterday. They even found humor in my Mighty Thor t-shirt (which is absolutely awesome!). I'm secure enough in who I am to be able to take this kind or ridicule for a week. Because we are like a family, we poke fun at each other a lot. It's somewhat amusing to all how interested local men seem to be in me and not the 15 women I'm traveling with. Oh, there's only so much that words in a blog can explain.
My first entire day in Istanbul is in the books and I'm ready for some much needed sleep. I caught a short nap on the plane ride, but that's been all I've had since I left my house at 6:00 AM on Saturday morning. I did have a great flight followed by an eventful day, so I'm glad I've stayed awake.
The flight from New York to Istanbul took close to 10 hours. Over half of my time was spent talking to my extraordinary 81-year old neighbor. She's the epitome of a world traveler and is on her way to the Holy Land by way of Istanbul on a cruise ship. She was a fascinating woman who was full knowledge and life. In addition to her wonderful traveling stories around the entire world, her first husband was a B-17 navigator. My grandfather was a B-17 pilot so we had a lot to talk about. We shared many similar interests when it came to American history, especially WWII, and politics. It was a very enriching experience for me and I reveled in the moment. It's not too often that I get uninterrupted conversations of the kind. It inspired me to make more time for conversations like this with my grandma. This woman is indeed a superstar traveler.
My own travels went without a hitch this time, which is uncharacteristic of my trips. Well, I guess it went without a hitch today...not so much yesterday. I arrived in Istanbul, found a ride to the hotel immediately and spent the day exploring our routes to and from the airport, venue, mall and other hotel. There were some unforeseen adventures, but that just gives more substance to the experience. In a way, it becomes a journey. I was very happy when I finally saw the rest of the team, coaches and team leaders. We have an amazing delegation. Our team leader, chiropractor, athletic trainer and coaches are like a family. It makes everything a lot more fun, that's for sure.
I have accepted that I'm going to be comedic relief for many others on this trip because of my passport debacle from yesterday. They even found humor in my Mighty Thor t-shirt (which is absolutely awesome!). I'm secure enough in who I am to be able to take this kind or ridicule for a week. Because we are like a family, we poke fun at each other a lot. It's somewhat amusing to all how interested local men seem to be in me and not the 15 women I'm traveling with. Oh, there's only so much that words in a blog can explain.
Friday, September 9, 2011
What a Turkey I am...
2011 World Championships - Istanbul, Turkey - September 9, 2011
I went to the airport this morning to get on a plane to Istanbul, Turkey and found out that my passport was expired. Apparently, they don't let people fly to other countries without a valid passport...who knew? Well, after hours and hours of deliberating, I got a new passport and a new flight to Istanbul for tomorrow morning.
I can tell you this as a matter of fact: your attitude is a choice. Last night at practice we talked about it and a good attitude has been my biggest contributing factor to the world team this year. It can be difficult to stay positive, but I assure you it is easier to keep a good attitude than it is to regain it.
I was supposed to be on an airplane en route to Turkey, instead, I spent the morning and most of the afternoon in Minneapolis at the passport renewal office, re-booking my flight, doing some damage control with the responsibilities I missed out on in Istanbul, and getting some quality time with Liz and the boys. It's actually quite amazing how well it went and how helpful everyone was. It's refreshing to see others reach out. I'm going to lie, I was overly optimistic and determined so I had a very positive attitude the entire day. I brown-nosed my way up the chain of commands and got everything expedited and had numerous fees waves. This undoubtedly made it easier for me to stay positive because, even though I made a mistake, I felt like I was in the middle of a move a God. Of course it was "bad luck," but my "good luck" far outweighed the bad.
I did miss my flight today so I'll be in Turkey one day later than originally planned, however I got a surprise free day with my family; it all became a bonus. I ended up getting to have a nice meal at home, chat with some friends and watch Lemonade Mouth with my beautiful bride. Tomorrow, I'll be in Turkey.
******************************************************************
Follow the World Championships at TheMat.com's Special Event Coverage. This section will include matches, brackets, photos, video interviews, blogs and chats.
I went to the airport this morning to get on a plane to Istanbul, Turkey and found out that my passport was expired. Apparently, they don't let people fly to other countries without a valid passport...who knew? Well, after hours and hours of deliberating, I got a new passport and a new flight to Istanbul for tomorrow morning.
I can tell you this as a matter of fact: your attitude is a choice. Last night at practice we talked about it and a good attitude has been my biggest contributing factor to the world team this year. It can be difficult to stay positive, but I assure you it is easier to keep a good attitude than it is to regain it.
I was supposed to be on an airplane en route to Turkey, instead, I spent the morning and most of the afternoon in Minneapolis at the passport renewal office, re-booking my flight, doing some damage control with the responsibilities I missed out on in Istanbul, and getting some quality time with Liz and the boys. It's actually quite amazing how well it went and how helpful everyone was. It's refreshing to see others reach out. I'm going to lie, I was overly optimistic and determined so I had a very positive attitude the entire day. I brown-nosed my way up the chain of commands and got everything expedited and had numerous fees waves. This undoubtedly made it easier for me to stay positive because, even though I made a mistake, I felt like I was in the middle of a move a God. Of course it was "bad luck," but my "good luck" far outweighed the bad.
I did miss my flight today so I'll be in Turkey one day later than originally planned, however I got a surprise free day with my family; it all became a bonus. I ended up getting to have a nice meal at home, chat with some friends and watch Lemonade Mouth with my beautiful bride. Tomorrow, I'll be in Turkey.
******************************************************************
Follow the World Championships at TheMat.com's Special Event Coverage. This section will include matches, brackets, photos, video interviews, blogs and chats.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Let's remember history
I graduated in 2003 from the University of Wisconsin with a Bachelor of Arts in History. I guess this means I'm a real "historian." However, I really didn't develop a deep sense of appreciation for history until I was already done with my studies. I always enjoyed historical facts, but I'm becoming increasingly more aware of historical lessons. Many great and not-so-great moments in history reveal important trends and principles that should not be ignored. We would do well to remember history.
Okay, I'll get to my point here this morning and I'll keep all of the political jargon out of this blog because I'm sure that's where you thought it was going. Right now, I'm talking about "Sports Entertainment," also known as professional wrestling/WWE/All-Star wrestling. Seriously, stay with me on this one though because there is a specific point I want to make.
Last night I watched WWE's 50 Greatest Superstars of All Time and woke up this morning with a very unsettled feeling because our culture and society completely disregard history and the impact it has had on today. The host of the program said it would be a controversial list and he was correct. Hulk Hogan #23? Seriously? 23? Ridiculous. In exactly what universe does Hulk Hogan rank as the 23rd-greatest superstar in WWE history? Apparently, it's the same universe in which Rey Mysterio is in the top 10. Even Edge was ranked ahead of Hulk Hogan. Unacceptable. Consider this quote from Hogan: "God created the heavens and the earth. Then He created us. Then He created these 24-inch pythons!" Sounds about right to me. I would put him at #1, but could see legitimate claims for others, but he is definitely greater than Jerry "The King" Lawler.
In all seriousness, though, here's what I discovered: as a culture, we have absolutely no appreciation for the things that happened before the technological boom. Things before cable television, the internet and social media aren't even on our radar anymore (Hulk Hogan helped make cable television popular, by the way). If it hasn't been discussed on a forum it's irrelevant. If people haven't made a Google Image of you their profile picture, you miss out on being included in the category of "great." If you're not self-gloating and promoting your accomplishments, apparently, they never happened.
I see this in the confined [amateur] wrestling world all too often. People don't understand that wrestling has been around since the time Jacob wrestled the angel (Genesis 32). This story embodied the mental and physical toughness that young wrestlers only dream about. Yet, still they dare to think they've crossed into uncharted territories in the categories of commitment, dedication and work ethic. Jacob wrestled the true "grind match" and wrestled through serious injuries and fatigue. Read the story. Just in case you weren't aware, wrestling wasn't invented when your son decided to be a part of it.
There is a long and storied history that went before you and if you choose to recognize it, you have the privilege to be connected to the all time greats that went before you. In wrestling and in life. Please, let's remember history.
Okay, I'll get to my point here this morning and I'll keep all of the political jargon out of this blog because I'm sure that's where you thought it was going. Right now, I'm talking about "Sports Entertainment," also known as professional wrestling/WWE/All-Star wrestling. Seriously, stay with me on this one though because there is a specific point I want to make.
Last night I watched WWE's 50 Greatest Superstars of All Time and woke up this morning with a very unsettled feeling because our culture and society completely disregard history and the impact it has had on today. The host of the program said it would be a controversial list and he was correct. Hulk Hogan #23? Seriously? 23? Ridiculous. In exactly what universe does Hulk Hogan rank as the 23rd-greatest superstar in WWE history? Apparently, it's the same universe in which Rey Mysterio is in the top 10. Even Edge was ranked ahead of Hulk Hogan. Unacceptable. Consider this quote from Hogan: "God created the heavens and the earth. Then He created us. Then He created these 24-inch pythons!" Sounds about right to me. I would put him at #1, but could see legitimate claims for others, but he is definitely greater than Jerry "The King" Lawler.
In all seriousness, though, here's what I discovered: as a culture, we have absolutely no appreciation for the things that happened before the technological boom. Things before cable television, the internet and social media aren't even on our radar anymore (Hulk Hogan helped make cable television popular, by the way). If it hasn't been discussed on a forum it's irrelevant. If people haven't made a Google Image of you their profile picture, you miss out on being included in the category of "great." If you're not self-gloating and promoting your accomplishments, apparently, they never happened.
I see this in the confined [amateur] wrestling world all too often. People don't understand that wrestling has been around since the time Jacob wrestled the angel (Genesis 32). This story embodied the mental and physical toughness that young wrestlers only dream about. Yet, still they dare to think they've crossed into uncharted territories in the categories of commitment, dedication and work ethic. Jacob wrestled the true "grind match" and wrestled through serious injuries and fatigue. Read the story. Just in case you weren't aware, wrestling wasn't invented when your son decided to be a part of it.
There is a long and storied history that went before you and if you choose to recognize it, you have the privilege to be connected to the all time greats that went before you. In wrestling and in life. Please, let's remember history.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
PROM
I just watched "Prom" and I loved it! It's the most recent DVD release by Disney. I exceedingly enjoy teenage drama flicks from the John Hughes days with the Brat Pack to the recreation of Shakespeare with "10 Things I Hate About You" and even "Mean Girls" or "Easy A." I love them all. I give each new one a try in hopes of one of them making me feel the same things I do when I watch Lloyd Dabler in "Say Anything." So, of course I was excited to rent "Prom."
I'm not interested in writing a review of the movie (if you're interested, it's worth the rent). Instead, I want to share what it is that I like about prom because that's the type of impact the movie had on me.
I loved my junior prom at River Falls High School. It is one of my most memorable moments. So, as a student teacher at Waunakee High School, I jumped at the opportunity to chaperone prom. Of course, I reveled in the opportunity to dress up and take my new bride out for a fancy date, however, I was most interested in being a part of something special in the lives of my students. It was wonderful. Prom provides a place where everyone can "shine." Each individual gets his/her share of the spotlight and moment of recognition. As a teacher, I saw extreme value in this. I believe educators should be seeking for ways to set-up everyone for success. Too often, students, athletes and individuals are set-up to fail...and they do. Sometimes, it's expected. I felt prom was a time for me to see my students in a different light and in an entirely new perspective. It was 7 years ago and I still recall how many of them glowed. Everyone goes to prom and does their best to represent the best of themselves. I like that.
Prom is a microcosm representative of that little boy or girl inside each of us that wants to shine and stand out. We all want to step out of our shell and be someone and do something great. Prom is the only place where everyone wins and everyone gets to experience that euphoric moment of standing on top of the mountain, publicly recognized and praised. It's a time to show the world an expression of who you are. Prom is some teenagers only chance to do this and that's important to me.
I'm not interested in writing a review of the movie (if you're interested, it's worth the rent). Instead, I want to share what it is that I like about prom because that's the type of impact the movie had on me.
I loved my junior prom at River Falls High School. It is one of my most memorable moments. So, as a student teacher at Waunakee High School, I jumped at the opportunity to chaperone prom. Of course, I reveled in the opportunity to dress up and take my new bride out for a fancy date, however, I was most interested in being a part of something special in the lives of my students. It was wonderful. Prom provides a place where everyone can "shine." Each individual gets his/her share of the spotlight and moment of recognition. As a teacher, I saw extreme value in this. I believe educators should be seeking for ways to set-up everyone for success. Too often, students, athletes and individuals are set-up to fail...and they do. Sometimes, it's expected. I felt prom was a time for me to see my students in a different light and in an entirely new perspective. It was 7 years ago and I still recall how many of them glowed. Everyone goes to prom and does their best to represent the best of themselves. I like that.
Prom is a microcosm representative of that little boy or girl inside each of us that wants to shine and stand out. We all want to step out of our shell and be someone and do something great. Prom is the only place where everyone wins and everyone gets to experience that euphoric moment of standing on top of the mountain, publicly recognized and praised. It's a time to show the world an expression of who you are. Prom is some teenagers only chance to do this and that's important to me.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Fantasy Football (or Fellowship Football)
"You're really into it this year." These are the words of my wonderful and supporting wife as I explain to her that I will be going to Keith's house for our Fantasy Football draft later today. This, of course, coming from the same individual who, for the first time in her life, sleep walked last night. When I asked her what she was doing, she said she was drafting players. So, who's really into it this year? Liz has been dreaming about this day. And it's finally here.
To be upfront, I'm actually no more into it this year than I was last year. The difference with this season is it's the second season with the same group of men. We now have a history and our league has an identity. This makes it much more exciting. As I promised last year, I drafted as many Packers as I could and started out 5-0. I was feeling good about myself then God humbled me. I played a different pastor in three consecutive games (6, 7 and 8) and God obviously had favor over his flock and I fell to 5-3. I set myself up for it by calling my team the Grasshoppers ("It is He who sits above the circle of the earth and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers." - Isaiah 40:22). Before I knew it, I was at .500 and watched my fellow Packers fan sneak into the playoffs on a tie breaker and win the entire league. I could almost hear God mocking me by reciting Pedro Cerano from Major League: "Look at the scoreboard now, Grasshopper!"
This year we have a trophy, so there is a $5 buy-in. It's probably not as good as 'The Sheva' from The League, but it's a trophy, nonetheless. I didn't want my fantasy football experience to be about money, instead, I do it for good, fun Christian fellowship. It's true. I do. I'm extremely competitive, but I'm in it for the friends (isn't that what everyone who doesn't win say?). Men need fantasy football because they need community, fellowship and friendship. I'm manly enough to admit this and ESPN, the NFL and many other corporations are smart enough to exploit it.
We're in a keeper league and I got to keep Aaron Rodgers and Roddy White. Without Rodgers, I'd be completely uninterested and probably wouldn't even update my weekly roster. My brother spent some quality time with White at the Olympic Training Center this summer and is working on a marketing campaign that includes former wrestlers like him. I also traded up to assure that I could pick-up Jermichael Finley (Packers tight end). I think I'll have a good team of Packers once again. I will be drafting with my heart, not with my head. I'm a complete homer. Ryan drafts with his head, not his heart. Oh, and by the way, he's the reigning champion.
If you're interested in my commentary on last year's draft, see Does Fantasy Football Really Matter? from August 28, 2010.
To be upfront, I'm actually no more into it this year than I was last year. The difference with this season is it's the second season with the same group of men. We now have a history and our league has an identity. This makes it much more exciting. As I promised last year, I drafted as many Packers as I could and started out 5-0. I was feeling good about myself then God humbled me. I played a different pastor in three consecutive games (6, 7 and 8) and God obviously had favor over his flock and I fell to 5-3. I set myself up for it by calling my team the Grasshoppers ("It is He who sits above the circle of the earth and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers." - Isaiah 40:22). Before I knew it, I was at .500 and watched my fellow Packers fan sneak into the playoffs on a tie breaker and win the entire league. I could almost hear God mocking me by reciting Pedro Cerano from Major League: "Look at the scoreboard now, Grasshopper!"
This year we have a trophy, so there is a $5 buy-in. It's probably not as good as 'The Sheva' from The League, but it's a trophy, nonetheless. I didn't want my fantasy football experience to be about money, instead, I do it for good, fun Christian fellowship. It's true. I do. I'm extremely competitive, but I'm in it for the friends (isn't that what everyone who doesn't win say?). Men need fantasy football because they need community, fellowship and friendship. I'm manly enough to admit this and ESPN, the NFL and many other corporations are smart enough to exploit it.
We're in a keeper league and I got to keep Aaron Rodgers and Roddy White. Without Rodgers, I'd be completely uninterested and probably wouldn't even update my weekly roster. My brother spent some quality time with White at the Olympic Training Center this summer and is working on a marketing campaign that includes former wrestlers like him. I also traded up to assure that I could pick-up Jermichael Finley (Packers tight end). I think I'll have a good team of Packers once again. I will be drafting with my heart, not with my head. I'm a complete homer. Ryan drafts with his head, not his heart. Oh, and by the way, he's the reigning champion.
If you're interested in my commentary on last year's draft, see Does Fantasy Football Really Matter? from August 28, 2010.
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