That's How I See It

Seems like just last month sports' fans were gearing up for the most watched televised sporting event as the Patriots and Rams squared off for the Super Bowl; well excluding New Orleans Saints' fans who felt terribly cheated on an obvious blown call by an official much like the Auburn basketball fans who bemoan the fact that two referees missed a double-dribble call in closing seconds costing the War Eagles big time in NCAA Final Four action.

Through the eyes and sport experiences of this 80-year old man, I dare offer an opinion, but you knew I would. Here goes with some random thoughts about the State Of Sports:

  1. Today's athletes are stronger and better prepared than previous athletes. They come from stronger women who benefit from greater prenatal care. These athletes also benefit from scientific based training techniques. That said, I would caution against a conclusion suggesting today's athletes are therefore more proficient.

  2.  Examining three sports (football-basketball & baseball) I notice significant offense changes over the years. Football is no longer 'student body right' with powerhouse running games. Instead rules changes seem to meet the fans' appetite for higher scoring contest as we note quarterbacks protected  and multiple passing schemes. Basketball has abandoned the 'post' centered  offense. Awarding three points for proficiency beyond the arc now finds teams constantly dribble penetrating and pitching the ball out to shooters beyond that arc. I also note that it is becoming more difficult for one defense player to stop today's skilled dribblers. When we examine baseball, I have noticed the demise in 'contact hitters' as big contracts are offered to hitters who hit 25-30 home runs in spite of striking out 200 times and sporting a season end batting average around .255.

  3.  Here is a legitimate question: Are college and professional athletes role models for youngsters?
Once upon a time the culture held in high regard the proficient athlete whose demeanor was unassuming and modest. Ernie Banks, Stan Musial, Bob Pettit, Jerry West, Bill Russell, Dick Butkus and Barry Sanders. Today it is commonplace and socially acceptable to bring attention to yourself for any momentary 'in-game' success. The basketball player that 'slam dunks' or blocks a shot screams, taunts and struts. The baseball player who hits successfully must either point to the heavens ( as if God favored him over the hurler) or do some preconceived hand gestures for teammates. Of course, the modern day football player rivals any choreographed dance troop. Sorry Barry Sanders.

   4.   When it comes to game management, the officials have not changed much over the years. Some really good ones, mostly bad ones and then there's Angel Hernandez who believes everybody came to see him.

   5. Most of today's coaches and mangers are better especially better at tolerating  prima donnas.

I said these are random thoughts and opinions from an old guy who no doubt is out-of-touch.