As this class comes to an end, I have really learned a lot. I have never taken an english class like this one and I guess I'm used to the traditional writing on certain topics and having no choice but to write about stuff that doesn't interest me. This class turned out being in a way kind of fun. (Not that school is fun in any way, but you get my point.) I got to write about stuff that interested me, my favorite sports teams, what was on my mind, letting my emotions come through in my pieces.
I have never written more then three pages for a paper so when i read how we would be working on a 5,000 word essay I didn't know if I could even do it. When we wrote the two other shorter pieces that were about 2,000 words each it actually was pretty easy. I just sat down and would just write until I couldn't think of what else to put it in because it is your own writing and ideas. You're telling the audience your perspective on the topic and how you feel about it. When it came to the final paper, I knew exactly what I wanted to write about and had a good feeling about it. I wrote about an athlete who had caught my interest, so i tried to portray that for other people to read, and I wound up getting a good grade on it.
This was one of the more interesting english classes I have taken in my college career. I enjoyed reading different sports articles and writing my own like I was writing in a journal or a newspaper. It was never a hassle or hard work because it was all on what I wanted to talk about. Some of the articles we read in class I did actually like reading such as the article on Bill Parcells and Jon Cheney. They were both very interesting and I did connect with both of those pieces. Overall, I think this class made me a better writer and I wish more english classes were like this one.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Are the Bills serious?
This question has been going on for years. Are the Buffalo Bills a respectable team or have they just got on a hot streak for a few games just to sizzle out and fade away. For a team that has not won anything, not even come in first place in one of the NFL's hardest division it is hard to see them being contenders for a long time. They have good young players such as Trent Edwards and Lynch,. and some good defensive players but they just seem to never put it together.
At the start of the season it looked as though the Bills would run away with this division. They started off going 5-1! AS the Jets and Pats were still adjusting to their new quarterbacks and the Dolphins just getting used to a new team altogether, their was a part of me that really wondered that the Bills might just win out this year. That all changed, however, when the Jets defeated them and started this downfall spiral effect that has gotten to the point of this past Sunday, losing to the miserable 49ers.
This wraps up the Bills season pretty much, they can drop 50 points on the drop of a hat like they did against the Kansas City Chiefs, or struggle on offense like they did against San Francisco. you never know what Bills offense is going to show up and this coming weekend might be their final chance to salvage the season. For the long run, yes I do see the Bills becoming a good up and coming team, to be honest they might just need a new coach because the team has talent. In the end they just really need to put something together, a legit season and beat divisional opponents to really give me a scare in the AFC East.
At the start of the season it looked as though the Bills would run away with this division. They started off going 5-1! AS the Jets and Pats were still adjusting to their new quarterbacks and the Dolphins just getting used to a new team altogether, their was a part of me that really wondered that the Bills might just win out this year. That all changed, however, when the Jets defeated them and started this downfall spiral effect that has gotten to the point of this past Sunday, losing to the miserable 49ers.
This wraps up the Bills season pretty much, they can drop 50 points on the drop of a hat like they did against the Kansas City Chiefs, or struggle on offense like they did against San Francisco. you never know what Bills offense is going to show up and this coming weekend might be their final chance to salvage the season. For the long run, yes I do see the Bills becoming a good up and coming team, to be honest they might just need a new coach because the team has talent. In the end they just really need to put something together, a legit season and beat divisional opponents to really give me a scare in the AFC East.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Ooo how I saw this coming
I was not surprised as I watched my Jets crumble before the Broncos this Sunday like a piece of paper is crumbled under some one's foot. As soon as those announcers jumped on the Jets bandwagon like everyone else these days, these phony Jet fans, I was wondering to myself I don't have a good feeling about this game. Rich Gannon a one time wonder in the NFL with the Raiders, O the Raiders how far they have fallen. Anyway, Gannon went on and on O the Jets have an advantage in the run game, Brett Farve has the advantage in the passing game, the Jets overall have the advantage because of the weather conditions. I'm sorry but last time I checked these are all professional football players. I am pretty sure that they have all played in the rain at some point in their career or have been cold. Sorry Rich, you don't make a very strong argument as Jake Cutler who I was very impressed with, picked apart the Jets defense like he knew exactly what play was coming.
Now being on the positive side, the Jets are still in first place. They didn't really lose that much ground because the Patriots lost. This means the Jets still remain one game ahead of both the Pats and the Dolphins. To be honest, I'm more scared of the Dolphins just coming out of nowhere and taking the playoffs right out of the Jets hands. New York has a pretty easy schedule coming up and should win out for the remainder of the season. They got Seattle and San Francisco which are two very beatable teams and then you got the Bills and the last game of the season which I shall be attending against the Dolphins. Those last two games are important because they are within the division.
All in all I really couldn't ask for a better season by the Jets. I have been very positive, very upbeat. If the Jets win and still don't make the playoffs because other teams just had better records I really can't complain. They can really determine their own destiny now, and they are really going to have to step it up.
Now being on the positive side, the Jets are still in first place. They didn't really lose that much ground because the Patriots lost. This means the Jets still remain one game ahead of both the Pats and the Dolphins. To be honest, I'm more scared of the Dolphins just coming out of nowhere and taking the playoffs right out of the Jets hands. New York has a pretty easy schedule coming up and should win out for the remainder of the season. They got Seattle and San Francisco which are two very beatable teams and then you got the Bills and the last game of the season which I shall be attending against the Dolphins. Those last two games are important because they are within the division.
All in all I really couldn't ask for a better season by the Jets. I have been very positive, very upbeat. If the Jets win and still don't make the playoffs because other teams just had better records I really can't complain. They can really determine their own destiny now, and they are really going to have to step it up.
What is with these "athletes?"
OK let me get this straight. You get paid millions upon millions of dollars to play a sport. A game that you love. you have fans, people wearing your jersey everywhere, signing autographs. You are living every child's dream. And then, you go and shot yourself in the leg, or beat up your body guard, or get busted for drugs or whatever is is that these people do. I don't understand I really don't and I've given up trying to figure it out. Why are some athletes just straight up idiots. First with Pacman Jones. Can this guy please just leave. Just leave and never come back "Adam" as you would like to be called. Which by the way he wanted to use his real name because he thought "Pacman" was filled with a bad image, yea their you go good job. How many chances is this clown going to get? First off, to be honest he's really not even all that good so I don't know why teams are begging to get him. Secondly, he's had numerous off the field altercations with the law, and was thrown out for an entire year. You would think that would be enough to maybe get it through his head that I shouldn't screw up again. Yet goes about it and gets himself another suspension.
In recent news, Plaxico Burress has shot HIMSELF in the leg. I repeat, HIMSELFin the leg. This just made me laugh when I first heard it. Not only was he stupid enough to carry around a weapon into a night club, but to then have then gun go off in his pants is behind me. Why in the first place are you going places where you needed a loaded gun? Don't you have body guards and security surrounding you? I guess everyone needs to be a thug once in a while. He needed protection is what I'm sure hell testify in court and hell probably get off free of charges which is what usually happens to these athletes. Their not athletes at all, their above the law who have money, fame to their advantage.
I guess my point is why do players do these things. Just why? You have everything you want in life and have been blessed with unfair talent that Me and millions of other ordinary people wish we had. Why can't you just put the team before yourself for once and stop being selfish. You have a job, a carer in sports and I suggest to these athletes if they want to continue they better get their heads out of their ass.
In recent news, Plaxico Burress has shot HIMSELF in the leg. I repeat, HIMSELFin the leg. This just made me laugh when I first heard it. Not only was he stupid enough to carry around a weapon into a night club, but to then have then gun go off in his pants is behind me. Why in the first place are you going places where you needed a loaded gun? Don't you have body guards and security surrounding you? I guess everyone needs to be a thug once in a while. He needed protection is what I'm sure hell testify in court and hell probably get off free of charges which is what usually happens to these athletes. Their not athletes at all, their above the law who have money, fame to their advantage.
I guess my point is why do players do these things. Just why? You have everything you want in life and have been blessed with unfair talent that Me and millions of other ordinary people wish we had. Why can't you just put the team before yourself for once and stop being selfish. You have a job, a carer in sports and I suggest to these athletes if they want to continue they better get their heads out of their ass.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Getting back to what they Used to be
I like the Yankees most recent move. Last week they acquired outfielder Nick Swisher from the Chicago White Sox. This move was good for a variety of reasons. They need a center fielder, Melky Cabrera just wasn't cutting it, even though he was a great defensive player, he couldn't hit if they'reaying with a beach ball. I always defended him saying they don't need his offense because they have so much fire power around him, he doesn't need to hit .300 and hit 20 home runs. He has good speed and a great arm out in center field. This also solves the problem of Johnny Damon playing center. Now, I have always liked Damon. He is a hard nosed player who will; do anything to win, anything to get the job done. If it means crashing into the wall, or bunting in a crucial situation, he is a player who is team first, then himself. They can now put him in left field/DH him.
I like the move of Nick Swisher because he is a player that is similar to the old Yankee tradition. Back when they won all those titles, from 1996-2000. They didn't have many star players, but they played great as a team, had great chemistry in the club house, and just looked like they just gelled well together. Swisher can help that, because that's what kind of player he is. HE may not be an all star, or put up Alex Rodriguez type numbers, but he is a player who wants to win, and will do it at any way possible.
This is a big year for the Yankees coming up. They recently just had Mike Mussina retire, which if it wasn't for him they might have had a just barely .500 record. The past few years have been dominated by the Red Sox and most recently, the Tampa Bay Rays. They need to start contending and beating these teams out in close games. They have to much talent not to in, I just don't understand. The front office needs tostart getting players who are not going to the hall of fame because of their own stats, but because of players that put the team first. I'm glad they got rid of Jason Giambi, He didn't really do much, and ever since he was accused of steroids he was never the same player. I'm just hoping that the 2009 season will not be a faliure, and the playoffs can be brought back to New York.
I like the move of Nick Swisher because he is a player that is similar to the old Yankee tradition. Back when they won all those titles, from 1996-2000. They didn't have many star players, but they played great as a team, had great chemistry in the club house, and just looked like they just gelled well together. Swisher can help that, because that's what kind of player he is. HE may not be an all star, or put up Alex Rodriguez type numbers, but he is a player who wants to win, and will do it at any way possible.
This is a big year for the Yankees coming up. They recently just had Mike Mussina retire, which if it wasn't for him they might have had a just barely .500 record. The past few years have been dominated by the Red Sox and most recently, the Tampa Bay Rays. They need to start contending and beating these teams out in close games. They have to much talent not to in, I just don't understand. The front office needs tostart getting players who are not going to the hall of fame because of their own stats, but because of players that put the team first. I'm glad they got rid of Jason Giambi, He didn't really do much, and ever since he was accused of steroids he was never the same player. I'm just hoping that the 2009 season will not be a faliure, and the playoffs can be brought back to New York.
Monday, November 17, 2008
1st placeee
Well the Jets have finally done it. They have beaten the evil Patriots and have a 1 game lead in the division. Even though I couldn't watch the game on TV because the NFL network and NFL in general needs more money, I listened to it on the radio and watched a play by play on NFL.com. The Jets first half was almost perfect but I knew they would let the Pats back in it, just because well, I'm a Jets fan its expected. I knew the Patriots were really going to get back into it when Matt Cassell who I have been very impressed with as of late, took his team down the field with ease and scored a touchdown before the half. At that point I knew this was going to be a game.
After the first half this game did look like a blow out. The defense has improved, The offensive line, and Brett Farve was just the missing piece of the puzzle to this scheme. Farve has really calmed it down and followed the Jets orders in just getting what needs to be down, getting first downs, moving the chains, and when they need it using his big time arm picking up gains of 40-50 yards, something Chad Pennington couldn't ever do.
All in all I am happy with this season as of now (despite the fact they should be 8-2 that loss to the Raiders killed me). The defense is really coming together making huge stops and is led by nose guard Chris Jenkins who is just a plug in the middle stopping the run game. The running game has been surprising as well as Thomas Jones has really stepped it up to what I thought after last season was a bad signing, has come out and proven himself. He had 3 touchdowns all of last years, and now has 10 putting him into the top three in the league for rushing touchdowns. Now the next game will be tough when the face the Titans who are undefeated. This will be a great game and who knows maybe the Jets have what it takes.
After the first half this game did look like a blow out. The defense has improved, The offensive line, and Brett Farve was just the missing piece of the puzzle to this scheme. Farve has really calmed it down and followed the Jets orders in just getting what needs to be down, getting first downs, moving the chains, and when they need it using his big time arm picking up gains of 40-50 yards, something Chad Pennington couldn't ever do.
All in all I am happy with this season as of now (despite the fact they should be 8-2 that loss to the Raiders killed me). The defense is really coming together making huge stops and is led by nose guard Chris Jenkins who is just a plug in the middle stopping the run game. The running game has been surprising as well as Thomas Jones has really stepped it up to what I thought after last season was a bad signing, has come out and proven himself. He had 3 touchdowns all of last years, and now has 10 putting him into the top three in the league for rushing touchdowns. Now the next game will be tough when the face the Titans who are undefeated. This will be a great game and who knows maybe the Jets have what it takes.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
The Main Event...TN!
Tonight is a night I haven been looking forward to all week. The Patriots will host the J-E-T-S in New England. I have been waiting for this game because in their first meeting, the Jets lost 19-10. however, this time around they have a better shot because Brett Farve is getting used to the offense, the defense seems to be clicking, and the Jets just seem to have some momentum going into this game. Leon Washington is looked at as a big part in the Jets offense and should be a player to watch tonight.
In the past the Patriots have owned the Jets. Kerry Rhodes, the Jets safety has even gone on record saying, " The Patriots are like a bully for us, they push us down, we push back but they always find a way to win." This statement is so true and it feels like the Jets are always one step behind the Pats. No matter how bad or good the Patriots are, they always seem to find a way to beat the Jets. Now with Tom Brady out, they Jets need to capitalize on this opportunity. They need to pull this game out and capture first place in the AFC East, which is heating up with competition as of late.
Even the the coaches have some history. Eric Mangini, defensive coordinator for New England for a number of years, is now head coach of the Jets. He has come so close, but Bill Bellicheck just always finds a way to win, even if it means cheating as the Jets caught them doing last season. I will give them credit where credit is due, the Patriots are a great team, but CHEATING has definitely helped them.
In the past the Patriots have owned the Jets. Kerry Rhodes, the Jets safety has even gone on record saying, " The Patriots are like a bully for us, they push us down, we push back but they always find a way to win." This statement is so true and it feels like the Jets are always one step behind the Pats. No matter how bad or good the Patriots are, they always seem to find a way to beat the Jets. Now with Tom Brady out, they Jets need to capitalize on this opportunity. They need to pull this game out and capture first place in the AFC East, which is heating up with competition as of late.
Even the the coaches have some history. Eric Mangini, defensive coordinator for New England for a number of years, is now head coach of the Jets. He has come so close, but Bill Bellicheck just always finds a way to win, even if it means cheating as the Jets caught them doing last season. I will give them credit where credit is due, the Patriots are a great team, but CHEATING has definitely helped them.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
I guess everyone is a Dolphins fan
Apparently the Miami Dolphins are winning the AFC East. They are the best team in the division coming off a one win season. Are these guys on ESPN stupid or what. I can't stand watching these idiots sit there and give their opinions that are usually wrong. Or how when they "predict" who the winner will be for each division they pick the Dolphins every single time. My question is why?
Being a Jet fan I guess I am a little biased wanted to see my team by at the top of the list. But even I know that the Patriots and Bills have just a good of chance to be that team. But the Dolphins? Give me a break please. They have improved a lot I will give them that but to be the division champs I really don't know where they get this information from. For years Chad Pennington was the Jets quarterback, and for years he was never even considered in the top 10 quarterbacks in the league. Now they are making him out to be this John Elway, Troy Aikman like QB. Guys, take it easy half the time he doesn't even get the snap because their doing that wildcat offense which coaches after a while will figure out. NFL players and head coaches will catch on to it soon enough and will put a stop to it. The only good team the Dolphins have even beaten so far is the Partiots, which was pretty convincing. However, they have lost to teams who are competitive.
I'm just so sick of everyone jumping on this team's bandwagons just because they "like their style" of play. That is the worst excuse an ESPN analyst can have. How bout the Jets and Bilsl winning games against good teams or the Patriots currently in first place even after losing both Tom Brady and their running back. It's time for these guys to wake up and actually pay attention to what is going on. If the Dolphins really do come in first place or make the playoffs, I guess I will be the idiot.
Being a Jet fan I guess I am a little biased wanted to see my team by at the top of the list. But even I know that the Patriots and Bills have just a good of chance to be that team. But the Dolphins? Give me a break please. They have improved a lot I will give them that but to be the division champs I really don't know where they get this information from. For years Chad Pennington was the Jets quarterback, and for years he was never even considered in the top 10 quarterbacks in the league. Now they are making him out to be this John Elway, Troy Aikman like QB. Guys, take it easy half the time he doesn't even get the snap because their doing that wildcat offense which coaches after a while will figure out. NFL players and head coaches will catch on to it soon enough and will put a stop to it. The only good team the Dolphins have even beaten so far is the Partiots, which was pretty convincing. However, they have lost to teams who are competitive.
I'm just so sick of everyone jumping on this team's bandwagons just because they "like their style" of play. That is the worst excuse an ESPN analyst can have. How bout the Jets and Bilsl winning games against good teams or the Patriots currently in first place even after losing both Tom Brady and their running back. It's time for these guys to wake up and actually pay attention to what is going on. If the Dolphins really do come in first place or make the playoffs, I guess I will be the idiot.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Cortaca
So Cortaca is right around the corner. I can't wait for it. This will be my first Cortaca experience and from just hearing stories from everyone in the past it sounds like an absolute blast. Starting from Thursday and ending on Sunday, I've heard that the whole weekend is really amazing and its only 5 days away! This year should be even better, considering its at Cortland, both Cortland and Ithaca have great records in 8-0 and 7-1, and it is the 50 year anniversary of the whole event. I will finally get to see what the rivalry is all about, and I will get a first hand experience as to what everyone has been talking about for the 3 years I have been in college. I have even helped design and make a t-shirt for one of my friends which is another part of the whole event. Some of the t-shirts I have seen are really creative and its all part of the weekend to, making the rivalry more personal.
One thing though that I am mad about is that we only have this event once a year. We have a gorgeous brand new stadium and the only time really the whole school shows up is for this Cortaca game. When I say really show up i mean its impossible to find a seat. The other thing is, I have friends that go to division one schools such as Penn State, Florida State, etc. This is like a every weekend thing for them, tailgating, the drinking, the wearing everything you can for your team. Plus the stadium holds up 50,000 people which I dont even want to start thinking about how these places get on game day.
I am truly jealous of my friends who do get to experience their "Cortaca" every weekend. But for now, I will enjoy my own weekend of excitement and partying for that this is the biggest D3 game in the nation. Should be a great game to watch this year.
One thing though that I am mad about is that we only have this event once a year. We have a gorgeous brand new stadium and the only time really the whole school shows up is for this Cortaca game. When I say really show up i mean its impossible to find a seat. The other thing is, I have friends that go to division one schools such as Penn State, Florida State, etc. This is like a every weekend thing for them, tailgating, the drinking, the wearing everything you can for your team. Plus the stadium holds up 50,000 people which I dont even want to start thinking about how these places get on game day.
I am truly jealous of my friends who do get to experience their "Cortaca" every weekend. But for now, I will enjoy my own weekend of excitement and partying for that this is the biggest D3 game in the nation. Should be a great game to watch this year.
Monday, November 3, 2008
The Knicks...
Basketball used to be a great sport. I could actually watch the games and enjoy them. I even would get into it and used to be a Knicks fan and would follow the schedule along with individual stats and standings. Now, I cant even watch a full quarter anymore. Basketball to me has just turned into these superstars who are just playing for the paycheck, chucking up shots whenever possible. The Knicks, our New York Knicks playing in one of the best sports arenas in the country in Madison Square Garden are absolutely horrendous and have been that way for a number of years.
It started when Isiah Thomas took over the team. Who then became the head coach which was the worst decision ever. He was also accused on a sexual harassment charge but that's besides the point. The draft selections after all these losing seasons haven't produced shit and have all pretty much been duds. You would think as a fan after finishing in last place for so many seasons in a row, they would at least get a decent player in all these years of losing. Not the Knicks, they managed to mess that up as well which is pretty embarrassing that they can't even get a superstar that us as New York fans actually care about.
It's not just the Knicks however, the NBA in my opinion is just focused around a bunch of superstars and the word "team" doesn't even exist anymore. You hear of Kobe Bryant and Lebron James two players with enormous talent. If you can name the other starting 4 players besides James on the court I would be amazed because all you hear about is him. I just hope one day basketball can resort to what it used to be, and be a game I can someday watch again.
It started when Isiah Thomas took over the team. Who then became the head coach which was the worst decision ever. He was also accused on a sexual harassment charge but that's besides the point. The draft selections after all these losing seasons haven't produced shit and have all pretty much been duds. You would think as a fan after finishing in last place for so many seasons in a row, they would at least get a decent player in all these years of losing. Not the Knicks, they managed to mess that up as well which is pretty embarrassing that they can't even get a superstar that us as New York fans actually care about.
It's not just the Knicks however, the NBA in my opinion is just focused around a bunch of superstars and the word "team" doesn't even exist anymore. You hear of Kobe Bryant and Lebron James two players with enormous talent. If you can name the other starting 4 players besides James on the court I would be amazed because all you hear about is him. I just hope one day basketball can resort to what it used to be, and be a game I can someday watch again.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Blahh the Phillies
Last night, The Philadelphia Phillies clinched their World Series title beating the Tampa Bay Rays. The game was started in the sixth inning last night because of the weather conditions two nights ago. This raised a lot of eyebrows because the game was stopped and not continued until two days later, meaning their had to be a layoff. The Phillies, who were thought to lose the momentum, got off with a great start from pinch hitter Geoff Jenkins who led off the inning with a double. Jimmy Rollins then bunted him over to third, and Jason Werth hit an "excuse me" pop fly single to center then just fell in off the second basemen. This was Philadelphia's first world title since 1983.
The momentum was to have thought to be shifted to the Rays. They had just tied the game, Cole Hamels, Philly's best pitcher was out of the game, and their three-four hitters were just starting to warm up. The Phillies however, stayed confident and shut the door as Brad Lidge got his 48 save in 48 chances, which is astonishing. A guy who had been questioned if you could come up in the big spot, showed everyone what he was made of.
This year's World Series was the least watched series in a number of years. Their ratings were horrible and people, to be honest didn't really care all that much. The past year's we've watched two major cities who love their baseball go at it in New York and Boston. Tampa Bay couldn't even get their own fans to fill the ball park let alone get the rest of the country to watch. I thought it was exciting at least seeing a team come from last to first in just a year, showing what a true team is about, coming together and winning as a whole. The Phillies were just a better team at this and executed.
The momentum was to have thought to be shifted to the Rays. They had just tied the game, Cole Hamels, Philly's best pitcher was out of the game, and their three-four hitters were just starting to warm up. The Phillies however, stayed confident and shut the door as Brad Lidge got his 48 save in 48 chances, which is astonishing. A guy who had been questioned if you could come up in the big spot, showed everyone what he was made of.
This year's World Series was the least watched series in a number of years. Their ratings were horrible and people, to be honest didn't really care all that much. The past year's we've watched two major cities who love their baseball go at it in New York and Boston. Tampa Bay couldn't even get their own fans to fill the ball park let alone get the rest of the country to watch. I thought it was exciting at least seeing a team come from last to first in just a year, showing what a true team is about, coming together and winning as a whole. The Phillies were just a better team at this and executed.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Construction
Yes. when I came to this school I knew that they were making some improvements. Building a new education building, re-doing Fitz, and just making the overall campus better. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think it was going to get this bad. I thought at least I could sleep at night, or walk to my class without taking a detour. In my opinion its disgusting to see this campus under construction and to just see this campus that can really be beautiful, just be torn apart.
The worst I guess in my opinion has been the work done outside of Randall, and my building, Clarke. What the he;ll are they doing out their, they're just a giant gap in the street and it looks the same every single day, the hole size, the bulldozer, the workers. The worst part is it wakes me up every morning at 7 when my earliest class starts at 930. to make all of this worse to top it off, Clarke hall had no water for two days from about 9-4. What? So I pay all this money to go here and i cant even wash my hands or take a shower when i need to. It's embarrassing to this college and to my other friends who go here to say I didn't have water in my building today as my friends look at me in disbelief.
My point is really, that some of these changes are not needed. What is the matter with the front of Randall? Unless there is a pipe ready to blow the building up and needs to be fixed I'm fine with that, but if its just to make it look "prettier" that's horrible.
The worst I guess in my opinion has been the work done outside of Randall, and my building, Clarke. What the he;ll are they doing out their, they're just a giant gap in the street and it looks the same every single day, the hole size, the bulldozer, the workers. The worst part is it wakes me up every morning at 7 when my earliest class starts at 930. to make all of this worse to top it off, Clarke hall had no water for two days from about 9-4. What? So I pay all this money to go here and i cant even wash my hands or take a shower when i need to. It's embarrassing to this college and to my other friends who go here to say I didn't have water in my building today as my friends look at me in disbelief.
My point is really, that some of these changes are not needed. What is the matter with the front of Randall? Unless there is a pipe ready to blow the building up and needs to be fixed I'm fine with that, but if its just to make it look "prettier" that's horrible.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
What a Surprise
Well that's great. A game where the Jets should have won easily, lost in an embarrassing defeat. The Raiders. I laugh when I hear that team's name because they are so miserable. They win what like 2 games a year if their lucky. Somehow the Jets managed to lose to them this past Sunday making their playoff chances slimmer and slimmer.
It is one thing to lose a game, and another to lose it doing stupid things. Brett Farve throwing interceptions, even though you knew he does this when he came here. Just stupid passes inside the 10 yard line, forcing throws just giving the ball away. Yes, I have been happy with Farve and his arm throwing deep balls like it is nothing, but why are we forcing touchdowns when we can just take the three points? He's a veteran who I thought knew better then this, actually using his head on the field.
The way the Jets lost was also a disgrace. Down by three, they got the ball on about the 2 yard line and actually made it into pretty decent field position. Enough where it was a long shot for a field goal, but still a shot. The first attempt was missed off the upright, but a time out was called thank god. The second attempt was actually made! Jay Feely of all people making a 52 yard field goal, I thought to myself this is it this is the motivation we need. No, no it isn't as I watch the Jets pitiful defense try to stop the Raiders but can't even do that as they kick a game winning field goal. It's tough being a Jet fan.
It is one thing to lose a game, and another to lose it doing stupid things. Brett Farve throwing interceptions, even though you knew he does this when he came here. Just stupid passes inside the 10 yard line, forcing throws just giving the ball away. Yes, I have been happy with Farve and his arm throwing deep balls like it is nothing, but why are we forcing touchdowns when we can just take the three points? He's a veteran who I thought knew better then this, actually using his head on the field.
The way the Jets lost was also a disgrace. Down by three, they got the ball on about the 2 yard line and actually made it into pretty decent field position. Enough where it was a long shot for a field goal, but still a shot. The first attempt was missed off the upright, but a time out was called thank god. The second attempt was actually made! Jay Feely of all people making a 52 yard field goal, I thought to myself this is it this is the motivation we need. No, no it isn't as I watch the Jets pitiful defense try to stop the Raiders but can't even do that as they kick a game winning field goal. It's tough being a Jet fan.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
World Series
So this year's fall classic is featuring two teams that probably nobody cares about. The Tampa Bay Rays and the Philadelphia Phillies. Even though my beloved Yankees didn't make the playoffs this year which was heart breaking, I don't mind these two teams all that much. The Phillies, beat the Mets out once again for another first place finish eliminating them from the post season, and the Rays beat the Red Sox from making another appearance in the World Series thank god.
It is actually a really good match-up with Philadelphia's power hitting lineup against the Rays pitching and defense, but the Rays have shown some pop coming into the playoffs. Players like Evan Longaria and BJ Upton were disgusting hitting home runs like they were on Que. The amazing thing is though, is that these players are only 24 years old and only going to get better. Their is even the new "closer" in Price who is younger then these two players and just dominating hitters. The Rays are a team to be reckoned with and the Phillies should not take them lightly.
Overall, I guess I cant be to down on this year's World Series. It should be an interesting match-up with lots of ups and downs. Both teams do the little and fundamental things right and that's what wins games. We are about to see some great baseball be played in the next week or so.
It is actually a really good match-up with Philadelphia's power hitting lineup against the Rays pitching and defense, but the Rays have shown some pop coming into the playoffs. Players like Evan Longaria and BJ Upton were disgusting hitting home runs like they were on Que. The amazing thing is though, is that these players are only 24 years old and only going to get better. Their is even the new "closer" in Price who is younger then these two players and just dominating hitters. The Rays are a team to be reckoned with and the Phillies should not take them lightly.
Overall, I guess I cant be to down on this year's World Series. It should be an interesting match-up with lots of ups and downs. Both teams do the little and fundamental things right and that's what wins games. We are about to see some great baseball be played in the next week or so.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
The Down Fall of ESPN
I know Eric wrote about this a few weeks ago but I have really started to notice it lately. ESPN is really getting out of control. I mean it is getting obnoxious at times. I put it on for an hour, and hear the same story about 2,000 times. I don't need to know every little tedious detail about the sport or team, just give me the facts and highlights and that's all i need.
Two examples that really stick out in my mind are actually both on the Cowboys. How many times has anyone heard this story: Pacman Jones is suspended for allegedly beating up his body guard, and " Tony Romo broke his pinkie finger and will try to play." OK. Thank you ESPN we got that now on to the next thing. In the next scene however, their is an interview on how Romo will deal with this near death experience apprently and then the commissioner talks about how hes dealing with Pacman Jones which in my opnion, this guy must have something mentally wrong with him after being suspended a year and then comes back after being reinstated and does this. How many chances are we going too give this guy? Your getting paid millions to play a game, yet he cant get his behavior under control. I just don't understand it but that's besides the point.
All in all ESPN used to be one of my favorite channels. When I was a little kid I would watch the same Sportscenter maybe up to 5 times just because I loved watching the highlights and who won the game because it was to late for me to stay up at night. It has just turned ridiculous in that they are becoming obsessed with the sport and concentrating on one topic. Take it down a notch ESPN.
Two examples that really stick out in my mind are actually both on the Cowboys. How many times has anyone heard this story: Pacman Jones is suspended for allegedly beating up his body guard, and " Tony Romo broke his pinkie finger and will try to play." OK. Thank you ESPN we got that now on to the next thing. In the next scene however, their is an interview on how Romo will deal with this near death experience apprently and then the commissioner talks about how hes dealing with Pacman Jones which in my opnion, this guy must have something mentally wrong with him after being suspended a year and then comes back after being reinstated and does this. How many chances are we going too give this guy? Your getting paid millions to play a game, yet he cant get his behavior under control. I just don't understand it but that's besides the point.
All in all ESPN used to be one of my favorite channels. When I was a little kid I would watch the same Sportscenter maybe up to 5 times just because I loved watching the highlights and who won the game because it was to late for me to stay up at night. It has just turned ridiculous in that they are becoming obsessed with the sport and concentrating on one topic. Take it down a notch ESPN.
The Rays!
Wow. Who would have ever thought that the Tampa Bay Rays would come not only in first place, but possibly be going to the World Series, depending on the game tonight. Just think. A team that came in last place for ten consecutive years. TEN YEARS! Including last season having the worst record in all of baseball. It is really mind blowing and some what confusing seeing this team just pummel the baseball with a bunch of no names.
Now don't get me wrong I am a die hard Yankee fan through it all. I know that the Rays are in the same division I know that. The only difference is and the reason why I'm rooting for them is so that Boston can't make another appearance in the World Series. I like these kind of stories the "no names" of baseball bond together and make a run. To see players who played on those 10 losing seasons actually get a taste of post season play.
I think I have the answer to all of these questions. Over the last ten years of losing, the Rays get a top notch first round pick every season. They develop and flourish to be the team they are now, which seems to be a bunch of all-stars the way they're hitting the ball. Along with a few great trades, (A thank you to the Mets for trading Scott Kazmir, really Steve Phillips tremendous job) it all has just fit the pieces of the puzzle to form a great team with great chemistry.
Overall, I am happy for this team, to see them make a run like this. My hope for this year's World Series is to see them play the Dodgers just because of my love for Joe Torre, and how I can now enjoy Manny Ramirez play baseball. My only fear is that I do not want to see this Rays team come in first place the next 10 years. Every player is in their mid- 20's early 30's and that would really suck watching the Yankees come in second or even possibly third for a bunch of years.
Now don't get me wrong I am a die hard Yankee fan through it all. I know that the Rays are in the same division I know that. The only difference is and the reason why I'm rooting for them is so that Boston can't make another appearance in the World Series. I like these kind of stories the "no names" of baseball bond together and make a run. To see players who played on those 10 losing seasons actually get a taste of post season play.
I think I have the answer to all of these questions. Over the last ten years of losing, the Rays get a top notch first round pick every season. They develop and flourish to be the team they are now, which seems to be a bunch of all-stars the way they're hitting the ball. Along with a few great trades, (A thank you to the Mets for trading Scott Kazmir, really Steve Phillips tremendous job) it all has just fit the pieces of the puzzle to form a great team with great chemistry.
Overall, I am happy for this team, to see them make a run like this. My hope for this year's World Series is to see them play the Dodgers just because of my love for Joe Torre, and how I can now enjoy Manny Ramirez play baseball. My only fear is that I do not want to see this Rays team come in first place the next 10 years. Every player is in their mid- 20's early 30's and that would really suck watching the Yankees come in second or even possibly third for a bunch of years.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
street hockey
I'm not the biggest fan of hockey, but I do enjoy playing. My friend signed me u p for the street hockey league in the field house and I was pretty psyched to play. Only problem was...we had 4 guys against 7. We got our ass kicked pretty good but it was fun at least just moving, passing, shooting. i even threw on the pads for a big and played goal, which is really hard since all those pads are so shitty and give you no equipment. Or how the helmets were just worn by the team before us and still had sweat in them, or the ball felt like it was made of Plato and you couldn't even move it. It was still i guess in a way "fun" to fool around. I would make a lot of improvements to the game to make it better so that the games would be a lot more enjoyable.
First off, can we please clean the helmets. I know I know theirs nothing like putting on a helmet fresh with someone else's body sweat all over it. ( I wore a bandanna i don't care how foolish i looked i was not about to put on of those things on without it.) Its just personal hygiene and how in the middle of the game i could just feel how dirty they were and how disgusted I was. Or maybe change to wearing goggles instead of a helmet. How many times does a person actually get hit in the face? and if you do, your wearing goggles to protect your eyes.
The other thing was, the ball would be shot or cleared to the complete opposite side of the court, and it would just disappear going under the net that came down from the ceiling. I know theirs not a lot you can do about that but place mats under it, but maybe you can switch the arrangement of the court meaning turn the court the long way instead of short with lots of space under neath. This would limit the possibilities of losing the ball every five minutes.
All and all hockey is a pretty fun game to watch and play. I have never really been a hard core fan, or grew up on it but I always enjoyed it no matter what kind of hockey I played. Street, roller, or ice. I will say one thing though it is one hell of a workout because I couldn't catch my breath for a good 5 minutes after the quarter was over.
First off, can we please clean the helmets. I know I know theirs nothing like putting on a helmet fresh with someone else's body sweat all over it. ( I wore a bandanna i don't care how foolish i looked i was not about to put on of those things on without it.) Its just personal hygiene and how in the middle of the game i could just feel how dirty they were and how disgusted I was. Or maybe change to wearing goggles instead of a helmet. How many times does a person actually get hit in the face? and if you do, your wearing goggles to protect your eyes.
The other thing was, the ball would be shot or cleared to the complete opposite side of the court, and it would just disappear going under the net that came down from the ceiling. I know theirs not a lot you can do about that but place mats under it, but maybe you can switch the arrangement of the court meaning turn the court the long way instead of short with lots of space under neath. This would limit the possibilities of losing the ball every five minutes.
All and all hockey is a pretty fun game to watch and play. I have never really been a hard core fan, or grew up on it but I always enjoyed it no matter what kind of hockey I played. Street, roller, or ice. I will say one thing though it is one hell of a workout because I couldn't catch my breath for a good 5 minutes after the quarter was over.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
the highs and lows of football
The NFL, is always is full of surprises. Every year a new team comes out of no where to lead the division and in some cases like the Patriots, go undefeated. The Giants, who are the defending champions of football, are undefeated despite the retirement of Michael Strahan and the injury to Osi. Still they have a dominant defense and a well balanced offense. The surprises are the teams like the Titans, who are without their starting quarterback Vince Young and throw out the ageless wonder Kerry Collins who still gets the job done. Even the Bills! Where did the Buffalo Bills come from suffering their first loss this past weekend. With players I have never heard winning football games and giving their fans something to finally cheer about.
Their are also the teams that no one even thought would win more then two games this season. The Miami Dolphins and the Atlanta Falcons. The Miami Dolphins sometimes looked like a middle school team at times, but with the addition of ex- Jet Chad Pennington and Bill Parcells running the team it is obvious they were going to be improved. I just didn't think that this year they would be better already. That just shows you how much coaching and management can do to a team that was absolutely miserable last season and has the possibility to win maybe 8 games this season in my opinion.
The team that has made me look twice is the Atlanta Falcons. Last season their quarterback, Michael Vick is sent to jail. The leader, the engineer of that whole offense gone for about two years for jail time. Just when they are picking themselves up and getting back on their feet they suffer another loss. Their head coach quits in the middle of the season! That is just embarrassing seeing how football is never about quitting and never giving up yet a coach can just walk out on a locker room full of players. The self esteem of that team must have been lower then dirt and it is great to watch them with a new rookie quarterback in Matt Ryan and see them succeed.
Football is always full of surprises and you never now what team is going to pop up at any given time or who is going to beat who. On any given Sunday a team can just explode and beat you. Maybe this is the year the Jets do that....?
Their are also the teams that no one even thought would win more then two games this season. The Miami Dolphins and the Atlanta Falcons. The Miami Dolphins sometimes looked like a middle school team at times, but with the addition of ex- Jet Chad Pennington and Bill Parcells running the team it is obvious they were going to be improved. I just didn't think that this year they would be better already. That just shows you how much coaching and management can do to a team that was absolutely miserable last season and has the possibility to win maybe 8 games this season in my opinion.
The team that has made me look twice is the Atlanta Falcons. Last season their quarterback, Michael Vick is sent to jail. The leader, the engineer of that whole offense gone for about two years for jail time. Just when they are picking themselves up and getting back on their feet they suffer another loss. Their head coach quits in the middle of the season! That is just embarrassing seeing how football is never about quitting and never giving up yet a coach can just walk out on a locker room full of players. The self esteem of that team must have been lower then dirt and it is great to watch them with a new rookie quarterback in Matt Ryan and see them succeed.
Football is always full of surprises and you never now what team is going to pop up at any given time or who is going to beat who. On any given Sunday a team can just explode and beat you. Maybe this is the year the Jets do that....?
Monday, October 6, 2008
Good to be home
I went home this past weekend and I have to say i was good to be back. I live on long island so the weather was still fairly warm and I was out with a t-shirt and shorts. I haven't been back in over a month, and yes I was sad to leave Cortland because I have been enjoying myself, but I was looking forward to seeing all my old friends. Something I didn't expect was that when I first walked into my house it was a little strange. Thing were out of place, my room was actually clean, and my parents had bought a few new things to add to the house.
I got home on Thursday night, that was a night to see my family and visit my grandfather, who hasn't been doing all that well, in the hospital. On Friday, a bunch of my friends and I played wiffle ball, a sport that is such a great pick up game. You can buy the equipment from any local drug store/ convenience store. You need a plastic bat and a plastic ball which cost about 3 dollars all together. Such a great sport to play when it is warm out, and even better when it's played at the beach or on any summer afternoon.
Yes, being home was kind of like a mini vacation for me, just getting away from my room and forgetting about school work but I am happy to be back. I do enjoy the freedom have here and not my parents telling me what my daily plans should entail, or whats going on for the day and how I should approach things. I couldn't believe it, bu the semester is about halfway over an thanksgiving I'm sure will come up quick. For now, I'm still enjoying my time at school.
I got home on Thursday night, that was a night to see my family and visit my grandfather, who hasn't been doing all that well, in the hospital. On Friday, a bunch of my friends and I played wiffle ball, a sport that is such a great pick up game. You can buy the equipment from any local drug store/ convenience store. You need a plastic bat and a plastic ball which cost about 3 dollars all together. Such a great sport to play when it is warm out, and even better when it's played at the beach or on any summer afternoon.
Yes, being home was kind of like a mini vacation for me, just getting away from my room and forgetting about school work but I am happy to be back. I do enjoy the freedom have here and not my parents telling me what my daily plans should entail, or whats going on for the day and how I should approach things. I couldn't believe it, bu the semester is about halfway over an thanksgiving I'm sure will come up quick. For now, I'm still enjoying my time at school.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Whats with Boston?
I've really had enough. Everywhere I turn here at school someone else has a Boston red sox hat on or a shirt or is a just a red sox fan. When did this happen? When did this start? Maybe it's just an upstate thing and people like the red sox but I know where I'm from if your seen with any Boston apparel you are ridiculed and for good reason. Boston is the enemy, the evil side of baseball. So why all the sudden is everyone hopping on this Boston red sox band wagon as soon as the Yankees start losing?
In Yankee Stadium, if you are seen with anything even red on you are pounced on like it's feeding time in a lion's den. People will throw food, drinks(beer mostly), just anything you have will be thrown at the opposing fan. This is how much pride a Yankee fan has and how much you should truly hate Boston and the rivalry. It is the greatest rivalry in sports with all the history and players going back and forth fighting and getting involved. Whether it be a pitch that's way to up and hits Kevin Youkulis in the head, or Pedro saying "the Yankees are my daddy's" this match-up will go on forever and that is what makes the game of baseball so fun to watch.
Yankee stadium and the city of New York is a cake walk compared to Boston fans. This is the only thing I do respect of them is that they are all behind their team 100 percent not like these poser red sox fans here in New York. If you even are in the vicinity of Boston with Yankee gear on. Forget it. Your life is over. They will make your life a living hell until the point where you need to leave. Boston is a great city to visit, but mess with their Red Sox and they go nuts.
So please if you are a Boston Red Sox fan in new york why do you all the sudden come out of the closest now with all your hats and clothing? Where were you for last 20 or so years when Boston won absolutely nothing and the Yankees owned the American League East. Stay behind your team through thick and thin just like now, where the Yankees are having some tough years. That's what being a fan is all about.
In Yankee Stadium, if you are seen with anything even red on you are pounced on like it's feeding time in a lion's den. People will throw food, drinks(beer mostly), just anything you have will be thrown at the opposing fan. This is how much pride a Yankee fan has and how much you should truly hate Boston and the rivalry. It is the greatest rivalry in sports with all the history and players going back and forth fighting and getting involved. Whether it be a pitch that's way to up and hits Kevin Youkulis in the head, or Pedro saying "the Yankees are my daddy's" this match-up will go on forever and that is what makes the game of baseball so fun to watch.
Yankee stadium and the city of New York is a cake walk compared to Boston fans. This is the only thing I do respect of them is that they are all behind their team 100 percent not like these poser red sox fans here in New York. If you even are in the vicinity of Boston with Yankee gear on. Forget it. Your life is over. They will make your life a living hell until the point where you need to leave. Boston is a great city to visit, but mess with their Red Sox and they go nuts.
So please if you are a Boston Red Sox fan in new york why do you all the sudden come out of the closest now with all your hats and clothing? Where were you for last 20 or so years when Boston won absolutely nothing and the Yankees owned the American League East. Stay behind your team through thick and thin just like now, where the Yankees are having some tough years. That's what being a fan is all about.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Yankee Stadium
Yankee Stadium. Probably the most famous sports arena in the United States. It is the home of famous sports figures, as well as players who have showed us true greatness and respect for the game. It is a place where you can walk through monument park before a game looking at the greats who made baseball the way it is today. You get goosebumps and chills because you know your standing in the same stadium as they once were as you stare at all the numbers that are retired. It is sad to see this amazing place go as the final game was played this past Sunday.
The reason I am a Yankee fan today is because the first ever baseball game I attended was in fact a Yankee game. My father, who is a Met fan, was just given tickets to a game because a friend couldn't attend. Stupid decision if he wanted me to follow in his footsteps. I stepped into the stadium at the age of 6 and was just amazed looking around at all the scenery. Walking through monument park, the bleacher creatures in right field, and just the game itself was all just so much to take in I never wanted to leave. I attended two games at Yankee Stadium this past summer, one being during All-Star weekend in the Home Run Derby. I'm so glad I still have one memory of the stadium that I can talk about that truly amazes people.
It is sad to see the Yankees not be in the playoffs in the final year of playing in the stadium. I guess as a fan, I've grown spoiled watching them make the playoffs every single year for 13 years in a row. I guess now I'll have to go check out the new stadium which does look spectacular from the outside. I can only hope that the new stadium brings about a new era of baseball for the Yankees.
The reason I am a Yankee fan today is because the first ever baseball game I attended was in fact a Yankee game. My father, who is a Met fan, was just given tickets to a game because a friend couldn't attend. Stupid decision if he wanted me to follow in his footsteps. I stepped into the stadium at the age of 6 and was just amazed looking around at all the scenery. Walking through monument park, the bleacher creatures in right field, and just the game itself was all just so much to take in I never wanted to leave. I attended two games at Yankee Stadium this past summer, one being during All-Star weekend in the Home Run Derby. I'm so glad I still have one memory of the stadium that I can talk about that truly amazes people.
It is sad to see the Yankees not be in the playoffs in the final year of playing in the stadium. I guess as a fan, I've grown spoiled watching them make the playoffs every single year for 13 years in a row. I guess now I'll have to go check out the new stadium which does look spectacular from the outside. I can only hope that the new stadium brings about a new era of baseball for the Yankees.
Monday, September 22, 2008
volleyball/wallyball
This past weekend I visited my girlfriend at her school where she plays on the volleyball team. Although the matches, games and sets are sometimes very very long to watch it does get excited at some points. When the score is tied 2 games to 2 and the next match wins, it can get pretty intense. Volleyball is a great sport to watch especially in this year's past Olympics. Watching the men and women's team play indoor/beach volleyball was very interesting. It is truly amazing to watch how high some of the players jump to spike the ball right at someone, and even more amazing to watch that person return it.
A game that I play back home with a lot of my friends is called wallyball. Not a lot of people have heard of it, and I had no idea what it was until about two years ago. It is a sport played on a racquetball court but with a net in the middle like volleyball. The rules and object of the game are still the same as volleyball: serving, volleying, setting, spiking. The only thing different is you can hit the ball as hard or as soft as you want off the walls on the court. If the ball hits three of the walls and touches the ground without anyone returning it, that counts as a point. You can play this game if you do or don't know how to play volleyball and it is really easy to pick up.
If volleyball wasn't the same season in high school as baseball I would have definitely joined and played. I find it to be a lot of fun and challenging. Being a physical education major, I took a class in volleyball and enjoyed playing and still continue to play anywhere. It is a good game to have fun with, or actually want to be serious and keep score.
A game that I play back home with a lot of my friends is called wallyball. Not a lot of people have heard of it, and I had no idea what it was until about two years ago. It is a sport played on a racquetball court but with a net in the middle like volleyball. The rules and object of the game are still the same as volleyball: serving, volleying, setting, spiking. The only thing different is you can hit the ball as hard or as soft as you want off the walls on the court. If the ball hits three of the walls and touches the ground without anyone returning it, that counts as a point. You can play this game if you do or don't know how to play volleyball and it is really easy to pick up.
If volleyball wasn't the same season in high school as baseball I would have definitely joined and played. I find it to be a lot of fun and challenging. Being a physical education major, I took a class in volleyball and enjoyed playing and still continue to play anywhere. It is a good game to have fun with, or actually want to be serious and keep score.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
snowboarding
I've been skiing once or twice my whole life. Being from Long Island there aren't many mountains i guess to go. Now that I'm upstate I would love to go try snowboarding. I've done it once, but the one time i went i was so frustrated in the process I just gave up and went back to skiing. The thing with skiing is that its a lot easier to go down the mountain by going to side to side rather then straight down. I learned that my first time as i just went flying down the mountain while no one told me how to stop. Once you get the hang of it though, skiing is a lot of fun.
On the few trips we went to in PA for skiing/snowboarding, my parents would always go cross country skiing which i found very boring. Just going on flat ground using every muscle in your body not even to go at a decent speed wasn't all that much fun. This is when I tried skiing down the mountain and found out that it was a fun sport to do. Snowboarding was the next step that I tried and the standing up part wasn't all that tough it was the turning and stopping. Stopping to me, just felt impossible and I would just fall down every time.
This is why I'm so determined to get back on the board and try snowboarding again, but taking it slow. I want to learn all the basics then just hopping on a hill or mountain and going all out like my first time. It seems like a really fun sport to do, and as long as I'm up here I want to experience it.
On the few trips we went to in PA for skiing/snowboarding, my parents would always go cross country skiing which i found very boring. Just going on flat ground using every muscle in your body not even to go at a decent speed wasn't all that much fun. This is when I tried skiing down the mountain and found out that it was a fun sport to do. Snowboarding was the next step that I tried and the standing up part wasn't all that tough it was the turning and stopping. Stopping to me, just felt impossible and I would just fall down every time.
This is why I'm so determined to get back on the board and try snowboarding again, but taking it slow. I want to learn all the basics then just hopping on a hill or mountain and going all out like my first time. It seems like a really fun sport to do, and as long as I'm up here I want to experience it.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
The Gym
The gym here at Suny Cortland is something that I have never seen before at a college. I have been to a few other different colleges and I have never seen anything like it. It is one of the biggest gym's I have ever seen and I'm so glad that we have it here at our school. I attend a gym at home that is probably half the size of the gym here, but still does the job. I love working out so having such an amazing gym on campus just makes it that much better.
One of the greatest things about the gym that I think anyway, is the fact that it is free. I know some of my friends at other Suny schools have to pay an extra fee just to use their gym on campus which i find ridiculous , considering you are already paying for school as it is. It just has any machine you can ask for from treadmills to free weights, to punch bags how can anyone not be motivated to go there and work out.
To be honest one of the reasons that I came to this school was because of how amazing the gym was. In a college environment where food isn't always the healthiest, it is good to know in the back of my mind that I can go and work off all that greasy food and getting shape. I think more people should take advantage of it since it is such a great facility.
One of the greatest things about the gym that I think anyway, is the fact that it is free. I know some of my friends at other Suny schools have to pay an extra fee just to use their gym on campus which i find ridiculous , considering you are already paying for school as it is. It just has any machine you can ask for from treadmills to free weights, to punch bags how can anyone not be motivated to go there and work out.
To be honest one of the reasons that I came to this school was because of how amazing the gym was. In a college environment where food isn't always the healthiest, it is good to know in the back of my mind that I can go and work off all that greasy food and getting shape. I think more people should take advantage of it since it is such a great facility.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Flag football
Flag football might just be the most fun you can have playing any sport. Just you and a bunch of your friends making up a team name, making t-shirts/jerseys, and making up plays. I just had my first game tonight which was a lot of fun. it's a good way to meet a lot of new people and bong as a team through games by getting to know each other. I played football in high school which was also a lot of fun but this is just fooling around just having fun at a sport that you love.
I always played flag football as a kid in elementary school through a P.A.L league. It was always fun then the league was flag football up until you were in 6th grade then it was made into tackle which till this day i still play with my friends back home. It was a good way to learn the ins and outs of the game and how it should be played the right way.
In playing flag football even though it can get confusing with all the receivers on the field it still feels good to catch the touchdown pass and have your whole team go crazy. That's what makes the game and being on a team so much fun is having team unity. Not just in flag football but in all sports bonding with one another and building relationships with your teammates.
I always played flag football as a kid in elementary school through a P.A.L league. It was always fun then the league was flag football up until you were in 6th grade then it was made into tackle which till this day i still play with my friends back home. It was a good way to learn the ins and outs of the game and how it should be played the right way.
In playing flag football even though it can get confusing with all the receivers on the field it still feels good to catch the touchdown pass and have your whole team go crazy. That's what makes the game and being on a team so much fun is having team unity. Not just in flag football but in all sports bonding with one another and building relationships with your teammates.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Club Baseball
I've played baseball for my whole life as far back as I can remember. I played in P.A.L league on Long Island to little league, to middle school, till high school, to my community college and now on the Cortland club team that i made this weekend. Baseball has been such a huge part of life and it really is something i love doing. It is a passion of mine and when i need a break in my day from class or just to get my mind off things in my life. I've always found it to be such a relaxing sport that you can just fool around with friends and meet up with to play a game or very intense where one game means everything.
Throughout my life baseball has always been so competitive. Even since middle school I just remember our coach getting so mad if we made the littlest mistake because we had to be perfect and we were, almost, going 9-1 when i was in 7th grade. When I finally reached the High School in became almost tradition in that my high school was always competing for that conference championship and to move on to the state title which we unfortunately couldn't do.
Baseball will forever be the sport that I love more then the rest just because of how it has gotten me through so many different experiences in life. Being on a sports team in school just makes your school career much more fun. You begin to create a bond that you normally wouldn't make with your regular classmates. I have friends here at Suny Cortland, but being it my first semester I haven't really branched out and met as many people as I should. This should be my opportunity to finally start enjoying my time here and having a great time.
Throughout my life baseball has always been so competitive. Even since middle school I just remember our coach getting so mad if we made the littlest mistake because we had to be perfect and we were, almost, going 9-1 when i was in 7th grade. When I finally reached the High School in became almost tradition in that my high school was always competing for that conference championship and to move on to the state title which we unfortunately couldn't do.
Baseball will forever be the sport that I love more then the rest just because of how it has gotten me through so many different experiences in life. Being on a sports team in school just makes your school career much more fun. You begin to create a bond that you normally wouldn't make with your regular classmates. I have friends here at Suny Cortland, but being it my first semester I haven't really branched out and met as many people as I should. This should be my opportunity to finally start enjoying my time here and having a great time.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
how you can benefit from swimming
Swimming in my opinion is maybe the greatest workout a person can do. It stetches and builds up every muscle in your body along with stamina. To me it is way better then running or sometimes a better workout then lifiting weights because in running your just using your legs and no upper body, and each stroke you take is like dragging a 10 pound weight. Their are so many different strokes one can do to make it difficult so then you can work on every part of your body and make an amazing workout for yourself.
In high school I was on the swim team and at first i hated it. Every lap I took i swallowed a gallon of water and i would go abolsutly nowhere. But now, after 2 years of the swim team I almost cant get enough of it. I love just going down to the pool and knowing that i can do something fun yet workout at the same time. The pool here at Cortland is up at night so you can usualy find me down there just swimming a few laps, nothing crazy or fast but just doing it to keep in shape.
I was so excited to see that Michael Phelps did such an amazing job at the olympics and how he just completely dominated. He really showed the world the work ethic it takes to become such a great swimmer becuase it is a difficult sport to master. He made everything just look so easy and simple it was almost like you knew he was going ot win even if he was losing a race by a couple of seconds. you knew nothing stood in his way and he was going to do whatever it took to win that race. Michael Phelps has almost re-invented swimming and has put it back on the map.
In high school I was on the swim team and at first i hated it. Every lap I took i swallowed a gallon of water and i would go abolsutly nowhere. But now, after 2 years of the swim team I almost cant get enough of it. I love just going down to the pool and knowing that i can do something fun yet workout at the same time. The pool here at Cortland is up at night so you can usualy find me down there just swimming a few laps, nothing crazy or fast but just doing it to keep in shape.
I was so excited to see that Michael Phelps did such an amazing job at the olympics and how he just completely dominated. He really showed the world the work ethic it takes to become such a great swimmer becuase it is a difficult sport to master. He made everything just look so easy and simple it was almost like you knew he was going ot win even if he was losing a race by a couple of seconds. you knew nothing stood in his way and he was going to do whatever it took to win that race. Michael Phelps has almost re-invented swimming and has put it back on the map.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
finally a possible winning year
As a Jet fan i have witnessed the worst that a team has to offer. Coming off a 4-12 season I can only be optimistic about this season coming up. With all the off season signings and now with Brett Farve how can a team have a bad year. Well, i will tell you how.
In past years the Jets have had some great teams. As a fan you get so excited to watch and see how the season will turn out only to have your heart ripped out by a season ending injury or players not playing up to their expectations. An example of this is in 1998 the Jets had everything going for them: everyone healthy, the right coach in Bill Parcells, an accomplished quaterback in Vinny Testaverde. But in the home opener and Jets fans have gotten used to this Vinny Testaverde goes down and out for the year and all hopes are lost for the season as they turned in a losing year, in a year where they had everything going for them.
This year will be a tough year regardless of who the Jets have because of competition like the Patriots, Colts, and Chargers. They have such a great opportunity to go forward as a team and make a run at the Super Bowl in 2008/2009. The only thing I can hope for is that all the new players can make a push that the average Jet fan like me hasn't seen in a very long time.
In past years the Jets have had some great teams. As a fan you get so excited to watch and see how the season will turn out only to have your heart ripped out by a season ending injury or players not playing up to their expectations. An example of this is in 1998 the Jets had everything going for them: everyone healthy, the right coach in Bill Parcells, an accomplished quaterback in Vinny Testaverde. But in the home opener and Jets fans have gotten used to this Vinny Testaverde goes down and out for the year and all hopes are lost for the season as they turned in a losing year, in a year where they had everything going for them.
This year will be a tough year regardless of who the Jets have because of competition like the Patriots, Colts, and Chargers. They have such a great opportunity to go forward as a team and make a run at the Super Bowl in 2008/2009. The only thing I can hope for is that all the new players can make a push that the average Jet fan like me hasn't seen in a very long time.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
The Yankees
This year is the final season at Yankees stadium, which is one of the greatest sports arenas in the United States. It's home to 27 World Championships and just filled with baseball history and is such a major part of our countries past time. This past summer I attended the Home Run Derby at the stadium as part of All-Star week. Yankee Stadium is a great place to be any time of the year but during this week the greatest players in the game today come together and play an All-star game. The home run derby in my opinion is the greatest part of this All Star break.
I feel that it is the best event of All-Star week just because you really get to see how amazing and difficult the sport of baseball is. It is one thing to see on TV but you get a totally different perspective when you are there in person. You get to see the power as to how far some guys can hit the ball. In my opinion baseball is the hardest sport to play because iv been playing all my life. Just to see someone hit a ball 500 feet with one swing with ease is a feat that i cant even imagine doing and that only these super athletes can achieve.
It is sad to see Yankee stadium being torn down after everything that has happened there and the kind of records that have been conquered. As of right now the Yankees are 6 games behind the Red Sox in the American league wild card. This angers the average Yankee fan to see the last season being played here and not even to make the playoffs to a team like the Boston Red Sox the mortal enemy. I can only hope for the best and continue to root for the New York Yankees in their final season.
I feel that it is the best event of All-Star week just because you really get to see how amazing and difficult the sport of baseball is. It is one thing to see on TV but you get a totally different perspective when you are there in person. You get to see the power as to how far some guys can hit the ball. In my opinion baseball is the hardest sport to play because iv been playing all my life. Just to see someone hit a ball 500 feet with one swing with ease is a feat that i cant even imagine doing and that only these super athletes can achieve.
It is sad to see Yankee stadium being torn down after everything that has happened there and the kind of records that have been conquered. As of right now the Yankees are 6 games behind the Red Sox in the American league wild card. This angers the average Yankee fan to see the last season being played here and not even to make the playoffs to a team like the Boston Red Sox the mortal enemy. I can only hope for the best and continue to root for the New York Yankees in their final season.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
About Me
My name is Joe Gerner i'm a junior transfer student from Long Island. I transferred from Nassau Community College where I played on the baseball team and will try to continue playing baseball here at Suny Cortland on the Club baseball team. This is my first time away from home so this is a new experience for me which I'm enjoying so far. My sister, who is a freshmen, also attends Suny Cortland and is a math major. I myself am a Physical Education major which is what i studied at my Community College. My father is the one who told me about Suny Cortland since he graduated from here. He raved about how great the physical education program was here and I can see why he was enthustiastic about it. I'm looking forward to a great semester and having a lot of fun while being away
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
