The role of defense in the NBA

NBA games tend to be high scoring. Teams routinely score over 100 points. The players are so athletic and talented that they are difficult to stop from scoring. Some wonder if the players are too talented to defend or if NBA players give lackluster effort on defense.

Playing defense involves pride and effort. A good defensive player takes pride in stopping another player from scoring. A good defensive player denies the inbounds pass and tries to prevent another player from getting open for a pass. A good defensive player tries to shut down the man he is covering.

Playing offense seems more exciting. It can be exciting to score or make a great pass. It can be exciting to make a good pass that leads to a basket. Offense seems more natural, whereas playing defense seems more unnatural. Playing defense seems to require more work and dedication. The crowd roars when a player scores, but the crowd does not necessarily show appreciation for a stellar defensive effort.

The offense sets the tone for the game. The point guard knows what he wants to do with the basketball. He knows whether he wants to pass, dribble or shoot. He knows what play he wants to call. So, the defense must respond to the offense. The defense cannot set the tone for the play unless the defense presses or tries to trap the offense. The offense's ability to set the tone puts the defense in a tough position.

However, a good defense can lead to a good offense. A steal or a blocked shot can lead to a fast break opportunity. A steal or a blocked shot can lead to a numerical advantage during transition. A 3 on 2 or a 2 on 1 fast break should lead to a basket. So, a good defense leads to points in transition. Therefore, offense and defense can work together.

Often times a defensive player has to keep their hands up and keep their feet moving. A good defensive player needs quick lateral movement and balance. Sometimes a defensive player has to distract the offensive player and create a turnover or a steal. Then when the shot is up, a player needs to box someone out and grab a rebound. A good defense limits second chance opportunities for the opposition.

Danny Chau, of the ringer.com, says "Defense is inherently reactive. Players can influence where an offense takes a shot, but ultimately, a defense can guard only what is in front of it. If a high screen is set 30 feet away from the basket, that creates a ripple effect for the rest of personnel on the floor." So, the defensive players respond to what the offensive players are doing. They must respond to the decisions that the offensive players make or the plan that the offensive players inact.

Playing defense requires maturity, focus and effort. The defensive player needs to concentrate on what the offensive players are doing. Chau says "It requires so much discipline, pattern recognition, and preparation that something as foolish as the youthful Suns offense forgetting how to run a set and just winging it can throw an elite defense for a loop." So, even when the offense makes a mistake, the defense may be caught off guard.

Offenses also have an advantage because they can be more creative. Defensive players must cover their assigned player or cover an area in a zone. Chau says "While an offense like the Warriors can occasionally survive in a free-flowing, unorganized environment over the course of a game, defenses cannot." Defenses cannot be unorganized and effective at the same time. An unorganized defense where players miss their assignments results in the offense scoring easy baskets. Defense requires mental toughness and hard work. Defenses must be efficient and consistent in their approach.

A good defensive player can make a big difference in the outcome of a game. Chau refers to Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs to make this point. Chau says "No other defensive player exudes the air of inevitability that Kawhi does- the shot clock becomes a countdown to how quickly he can force the ball out of his counterparts hands, one way or another." Chau adds that "Leonard's ability to make an offensive player disappear (and his cross-platform Peanut Punch) makes him one of the most visually compelling defenders ever." Leonard can neutralize a good offensive player. Leonard can take away an offensive player's ability to impact the game. Such defensive ability is rare and valuable.

So Leonard has the rare ability to be a shut down defensive player. He has the ability to limit what the offensive player can do. He can take away an offensive player's options. This kind of player is very valuable. One wonders how NBA teams can train more players to be like this. Leonard serves as an example of what NBA players could become on defense.

Chau also cites Draymond Green and Rudy Gobert as excellent defensive players. Chau says that Green helps the Warriors' defense in a couple of ways. Chau says Green is "the chief communications officer of the Warriors backline while also covering for his teammates all over the court." So, Green is a defensive leader who excels at helping his teammates. Chau says "And while his self confidence is brimming, Draymond really does give off a sense that he's internalized not only the Warriors' unique defensive principles, but the entire league's." Green understands the different elements of sound defense, and he applies himself on the defensive end.

Gobert's defensive ability comes from his height and his ability to move quickly in a lateral manner. Chau says "Gobert's wingspan, which stretches close to 7 foot 9, and suprising lateral mobility allow him to patrol the paint in ways that his monolithic predecessors couldn't." His wingspan allows him to block shots and his quickness allows him to play help defense. His quickness allows him to get around screens or switch with another defender on a pick and roll play. Height and speed are good attributes for an NBA player. These two attributes help Gobert to be a premiere defender.

Chau points out that the pick and roll creates a two on one advantage for the offense because it forces the inside defender to choose which player to defend, which can leave the other player open. However, Gobert's ability on defense neutralizes the effectiveness of the pick and roll. Chau says "But Gobert, by simply unfurling his arms, can track both the handler and roller, giving his teammates time to recover without leaving their individual assignments." Gobert's ability may force the offense to abandon the pick and roll or use it less. Gobert's ability on defense may force the other team to game plan differently when they play Gobert's team- the Jazz. Additionally, Gobert's ability to neutralize the pick and roll helps his teammates on defense. Like Green and Leonard, Gobert has the ability to have a defensive impact upon the outcome of the game.

How can more NBA players experience similar success on defense that Leonard, Green and Gobert have experienced? How can more NBA players be known for their stellar defensive play? There is no shortcut to success. Each player has to work on developing stronger defensive skills.

Each player has to remember the fundamentals of strong defense. Every NBA player has to stay between his man and the basketball. Each player has to know who has the basketball and know where his man is. Some NBA players have better peripheral vision than other players. Nevertheless, it is necessary that each player knows where his man is and where the ball is. Plays happen quickly in basketball, and if a defender loses sight of the basketball or the man he is covering, the opponent can score quickly. Defenses have to guard against the quick basket.

The player guarding the point guard has to make sure the point guard does not go past him and penetrate into the lane. The defender has to force the point guard into a long shot or an off balanced shot. The player guarding the point guard has to fight through screens or switch quickly on defense. One must guard against the hesitation dribble, which can lull the defender to sleep and allow the point guard to move quickly past a deceived defender. The person guarding the point guard also has to be aware of the passing lanes that the point guard is looking at. The defender has to guard against these passing lanes.

When a player gets the basketball in the corner,the defender has to decide whether to guard against the baseline or guard against the interior. If the defender takes away the baseline, the player may dribble to the inside or pass to an open player. Perhaps, the player may shoot a long jump shot from the corner. If the inside is taken away, the player may try to dribble along the baseline and try and score. Either way, the defender has to guard against the easy basket. It's better to force the player towards the double team or a teammate that is playing help defense. In some cases, it's better to take away every option except the long range jump shot. However, in today's NBA many players can make three point shots or long range shots. Still, it may be preferable to prevent the player from getting closer to the basket.

Defense always requires great effort. It always involves determination and resolve. Max Streng of "Fansided" says "Defense is hard at any level. It takes commitment from all five players, knowledge of personnel and scheme, communication, effort and often times in the NBA the shot still goes in....These are the best players in the world." As Streng says, there are many elements of sound defense. Good defense requires consistent effort and determination. The defensive players have to communicate with each other and anticipate what the offensive players are going to do next. They have to understand what play the offense is running and they have to know how to defend it. No matter how hard they try, the offense is still often successfull. Players must not become discouraged when they play defense. They have to realize that eventually their efforts will be rewarded.

In addition to effort, physical talent is also an important part of good defensive play. Jonathan Tjarks, writing for sbnation.com, emphasizes the importance of foot-speed and wingspan. Tjarks says "Elite NBA defenders all have the same profiles: great athletes with long arms." So, while the effort is important, the physical ability is also necessary.

Foot speed and wing span help a defender to contest a jump shot as well. Tjarks says "In the NBA, where the vast majority of players can knock down an open jumper being unable to contest a player's release point is essentially giving away a basket." If a player cannot reach the height of the jump shooter's hands, then it is very difficult for that defender to stop the offensive player from scoring. Foot speed enables a defender to stay in front of the jump shooter, while a good wing span helps a defender to block or contest the shot.

Team defense is also very important. Individual players need to commit themselves to playing defense, but players need to communicate with each other and help each other on the court in order to play good team defense. Players need to fight through screens, communicate when they are switching players and help a teammate to guard a talented offensive player. Teammates have to be willing to sacrifice for the good of the team. Teams that play good defense have a better chance of going deep into the playoffs and winning a championship.

In today's NBA teams are allowed to play zone defense. For many years, the zone was outlawed. Players had to guard a man. They were not allowed to guard an area, which the zone defense allows a player to do. If a player was guarding an area instead of a man, the offensive team was given a technical foul shot.

However, Chris Parker of "The Guardian" points out that in the 1990's coaches implemented offenses that worked against the man to man defense. Parker says "Teams would isolate their best scorer in the post with his teammates as far away on the other side of the court as possible, to make it hard to double." This allowed the player in the post to work against one defender. If it was a mismatch, then the offensive player could score. If it was not a mismatch, then the post player had four other players he could pass the ball to. He could pass the ball to the player who was most open. Or he could pass the ball to the best scorer.

Parker says that this change "has allowed the best defensive minds to develop tough double team schemes, where players rotate their assignments. Led by coaches like Tim Thibideau, teams have developed hybrid man-zones that flood the ball-side and leave two weak -side defenders covering three guys. It bets the defenders can rotate faster than the offense can move the ball." The zone defense fosters creativity and flexibility. It allows players another way to match up with a good team. It gives defenses the opportunity to confuse the offense and upset the rythym of the other team.

In the 2017-18 season, the Boston Celtics have been the best defensive team. Their strong defense has helped them to establish the best record in the NBA. John Schumann of NBA.com points out "The Celtics' No. 1 ranking on defense starts with having the lowest opponent effective field goal percentage. And the key has been on the perimeter. The Celtics rank second in opponent field goal percentage from mid range and fourth in opponent 3 point percentage." So, good perimeter defense has helped the Celtics have a good start to the season.

The Celtics' ability to contest shots and put pressure on opposing guards has helped the, hold opponents to a league low 95.4 points per game. Portland, San Antonio and Oklahoma City are the only other teams to hold opponents to under 100 points per game.

Defense will always be an important part of basketball. Playing good defense requires effort and determination. Wing span and foot speed also help a defensive player to be effective. Teams that play good defense have a better chance of advancing deep into the playoffs and contending for a championship.

Reflecting upon the history of the Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears are one of the NFL's original francises. The Bears have won 9 NFL championships, including one Super Bowl since 1920. Their history parallels the history of the NFL. It's impossible to appreciate the history of the NFL without appreciating the history of the Bears. Their fans are understandably proud of their team's history.

The Bears were originally known as the Decatur Staley's. George Halas, who would eventually become the team's owner in 1922, was originally a player/coach for the team. In addition to being a good football player and coach, Halas was also a minor league player for the New York Yankees baseball team. In fact, a baseball with Halas' autograph on it resides in a display with other Yankee autographs in Yankee stadium. Despite being a good baseball player, football would be the sport that Halas would make his mark in.Halas was synonymous with the beginning of the Bears and the NFL.

In 1922, Halas moved the team to Chicago. In 1925, Halas signed Red Grange, a star player from the University of Illinois, to a contract worth $100,000.No player had ever been paid that kind of money. The public was stunned that an athlete would be paid such a large sum of money.

Grange was nicknamed the "galloping ghost" by sports writer Warren Brown. Grant land Rice, one of the premier sports writers of the time famously wrote the following of Grange:

"Eluding all who reach and clutch;
A gray ghost thrown into the game
That rival hands may never touch
A rubber bounding, blasting soul
Whose destination is the goal - Red Grange of Illinois."

Grange was one of the first football players who fans clamored to see. In fact, his popularity helped to save the New York Giants organization. 1925 was the inaugural season for the Giants. Despite great hopes, the Giants had struggled financially during their first season. The team had lost a lot of money as they prepared to face the visiting Chicago Bears at the Polo Geounds on December 6th, 1925. The game had been billed "Red Grange day", as Red Grange dolls, sweaters and caps were sold at the game. 70,000 fans came to the game, and The Giants were able to make $40,000 that day. It was enough money to pay their debts and to convince the Mara family to bring the Giants back for a second season. Without the success of that day, the Giants may have folded as an organization.


The Bears won their first NFL championship game in 1921 when they were known as the Chicago Staley's. They beat the Buffalo All Americans 10-7. Halas played wide receiver in the game. While it was billed as a championship game, it was also considered an exhibition game. Back then the regular season was considered more important than a championship game. Buffalo was under the impression that the game would not count in the standings. This loss became known in Buffalo , NY as the "curse of the Staley's." It is considered one of the first curses in sports.

John Leo "Paddy" Driscoll quarter backed the Bears from 1926-29. He led the NFL in scoring twice in his career. Driscoll was good at throwing, running and kicking. Driscoll was one of the most versatile players of the early years of the NFL.

The Bears had winning seasons from 1920-1928. In 1929, they stumbled to a 4-9-2 record. They lost the NFL championship to the Giants in 1934 and to the Washington Redskins in 1937 and 1942. Their losses in 1934 and 1942 were proceeded by undefeated seasons. They would then proceed to have 15 straight winning seasons. They won the NFL championship in 1932, 1933, 1940, 1941 and 1947.

In 1932, the The Bears defeated the Portsmouth Spartans 9-0. The game was moved to Wrigley Field to the indoor Chicago Stadium because of the inclement weather. Today, games are rarely moved indoors or postponed because of the weather. The field for this game was only 80 yards as opposed to the normal 100 yards.

In 1933, the Bears defeated the Giants 23-21 in Wrigley Field. The Bears scored the winning touchdown with under two minutes left in regulation. The Giants would gain a measure of revenge the following year as they defeated the Bears 30-13 in the 1934 NFL championship game.

During the 1930's, Bronko Nagurski was the best player that the Bears had. He was one of the best players in The NFL. He was the biggest and probably the strongest running back of the 1930's. He was bigger than some of the lineman of this era. He was a member of the first hall of fame class of 1963. Nagurski was a skilled runner, blocker and tackler. He even threw two touchdown passes in the 1933 championship game. Nagurski not only symbolized the toughness of the Bears during this period, he also represented the ruggedness of the NFL during the 1930's.

The 1940 NFL championship game was memorable for its lopsided score. The Bears defeated the Redskins 73-0 in the most lopsided game in NFL history. Ironically, entering the game the Redskins had the better record: The Redskins were 9-2, while the Bears were 8-3. The game was broadcast on the Mutual Broadcasing System, which existed between 1934-1999. It was the first ever NFL game to be broadcast throughout the nation.

The Bears dominated the game from the beginning to the end. The Redskins were unable to stop the Bears use of the "T formation." In this formation 3 running backs line up in back of the quarterback in the shape of a "T". The Bears rushed for 381 yards and 7 rushing touchdowns. 6 different players had rushing touchdowns, and 12 players had at least one rushing attempt. The "T" formation probably made it difficult to know which of the three running backs would get the ball. In any event, the Bears implementation of the "T" formation paves the way for their championship win.

In the 1941 NFL championship game, the Bears defeated the Giants 37-9. The game took place two weeks after Pearl Harbor and featured the smallest crowd ever at an NFL championship game. Unfortunately, two players, Young Bussey of the Bears and Jack Lummus of the Giants died in WW II in 1945.

In 1943, the Bears once again defeated the Redskins in the championship game. Though the score was much closer than the 1940 championship game, the Bears won 41-21. The Bears held the Redskins to 45 rushing yards and 182 passing yards.

In 1946, the Bears would once again defeat the Giants. At the Polo Grounds, before a record breaking crowd of 58,346 the Bears defeated the Giants 24-14. The game was tied at 14 entering the 4th quarter. However, Bears' quarterback Sid Luckman scored on a 19 yard run and the Bears added a field goal later. The Bears outscored the Giants in the decisive 4th quarter.

In addition to winning four championships in the 1940's, the Bears also added the orange "C" to their helmets. They were also given the nickname "The Monsters of the Midway" during this decade. That nickname had previously belonged to the Universiy of Chicago football team.

Luckman was a skilled quarterback for the Bears. He guided the Bears from 1939-1950. He guided the Bears to 4 NFL championships and he was a three time NFL all star. He was the MVP in 1943. Luckman once threw 7 touchdowns in one game. Only 7 other quarterbacks in NFL history have thrown that many touchdowns in a game.

The 1950s were difficult years for the Bears. The did not win a championship during that decade.

Their best player during the 1950s was middle line backer Bill George. George played for the Bears from 1952-1965.The middle line backer position developed during the 1950's , and George was one of the first to play that position. Prior to this, defenses had 5 defensive lineman and two line backers. However, George would often leave his middle defensive guard position to drift back into pass coverage. He would often cover the running back who was going out for a pass. George's transition from defensive guard to linebacker is part of what lead to the development of the 4-3 defense.

The Bears won the 1963 championship over the Giants. They defeated the Giants 14-10. It was their 8th NFL championship.

Dick Butkus was one of the best players of the 1960's. Butkus grew up in Chicago and was happy that his home town team drafted him in 1965. If George helped invent the middle linebacker position, then Butkus helped define the position more precisely. In a way, Butkus is synonymous with the position. Butkus is considered one of the greatest middle linebackers in NFL history. He was a hard nosed player and an excellent tackler. He helped set the tone for the Bears defense from 1965-1972. Butkus was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979.

Gale Sayers, like Butkus, was drafted in the 1965 draft. Sayers had one of the greatest rookie seasons in NFL history. Sayers had 22 touchdowns his rookie season. He scored running, receiving and returning punts and kicks. He was truly an all purpose performer as a rookie. He had 2,272 all purpose yards - the most ever by a rookie. Additionally, he won the rushing title in 1966. Sayers retired before the 1972 season because of injuries to his knees.

From 1969 to 1982, the Bears struggled. The Bears had losing records for 7 conseutive seasons( 1969-1975) From 1964 to 1983, the Bears made the playoffs only twice. They did not win a playoff game during those years.

However, in 1985, the Bears finally broke through and won their first ever Super Bowl. They defeated the New England Patriots 45-10 in Super Bowl XX. The Bears dominated the game much like they dominated the season. They finished the season with a 15-1 record. Their only loss was on Monday night to a good Miami Dolphins team. The Bears outscored their opponents 456-198. While the defense gets a lot of credit for that season, it was also the most prolific offensive season in Bears' history.

The Bears were coached by Ditka from 1982-1992. Ditka's tough, hard nosed personality personified the Bears during this period. A hall of fame tight end, Ditka's personality helped to give the Bears an identity during these 10 years.

Buddy Ryan, father of coaches Rex and Rob, was the defensive coordinator for the Bears from 1978-1985. Ryan pioneered the 46 defense during that period. The 46 defense helped the Bears to become one of the best defenses in NFL history. This defense moved 6 players ( 4 defensive lineman and 4 linebackers) close to the line of scrimmage.This defense featured 3 defensive backs. The other two players played linebackers, but tdhey were further away from the line of scrimmage.

Hardy Evans, writing for bleacherreport, says that Ryan "designed the 46 defense when he arrived in Chicago in 1978. Ryan inherited a team that was atrocious at stopping the run and rushing the passer. He designed the 46 to essentially be an ultra-aggressive version of the 4-3 defense." So, Ryan tried to make the Bears stronger and more assertive on defense.

Hardy explains that "The 46 essentially put a steel wall of defenders in front of opposing offenses, forcing them to throw the football." The 46 tried to take away the options of the opposing team. Ryan and the Bears tried to make the opposing offense one dimensional and more predictable.

Bears running back Walter Payton was one of the most talented football players in the NFL during this period. Payton epitomized the Chicago Bears from 1975 to 1987. During his stellar career, the reliable Payton missed only one game. He missed this one game because of a coach's decision, not because of injury. Payton played in a remarkable 170 consecutive games.

Payton was the most talented running back that I ever saw play. He possessed a rare combination of speed, power and agility. He ran with acceleration and purpose. He ran with courage and toughness. He embodied the spirit of the Bears during his outstanding playing career.

Payton rushed for 16,726 yards. He retired as the all time leading rusher. He scored a total of 133 touchdowns (110 rushing, 15 receiving and 8 passing). Payton averaged 4.4 yards a carry.

After Ditka left the Bears, the team hired Dallas Cowboy defensive coordinator Dave Wannstedt. Hiring Wannstedt made sense for the Bears - a team that had always prioritized defense. Wannstedt coached the Bears from 1993-1998. Despite Wannstedt's effort and dedication, his tenure with the Bears was unsuccessful. The team finished 9-7 twice, and had four losing seasons. After finished 4-12 for the second time in his Bears' tenure, Wannstedt was fired.

Dick Jauron coached the Bears from 1999-2003. Despite Jauron's knowledge of football and his extensive experience, he had four losing seasons with Chicago. However, he lead the Bears to a 13-3 record in 2001, which earned him Coach of the Year honors. The Bears lost to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Divisional game. The Bears had losing seasons in 2002 and 2003, which lead to Jauron's firing.

Lovie Smith replaced Dick Jauron. Smith would become the most successfull coach since Mike Ditka. Smith went 81-63 in 9 seasons with the Bears. They made the playoffs three times and made it all the way to Super Bowl XLI- their first Super Bowl appearance since 1985. They lost to the Colts 29-17. Additionally, they made it to the NFC championship game in 2010 when they lost to the Green Bay Packers. Overall, Smith 5 winning seasons in Chicago.

Marc Trestman was hired to replace Smith. Trestman had a well deserved reputation as a good quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator. He had been quarterbacks coach for Steve Young when he was with Tampa Bay and San Francisco. Trestman has a good understanding of the offensive side of football. However,his tenure has head coach of the Bears would only last two seasons.

In 2013, his first season, Trestman lead the Bears to an 8-8 record. The team's mediocrity was due to their inability to play defense at a high level. The Bears gave up a lot of points and finished 30th in defense that season. Conversely, they had a good offensive season. The Bears gained 6,109 yards- the most ever for a Bears team. They scored 445 yards, which was the second best in the NFL that season.

In 2014, the Bears finished 5-11. Defense wa once again the culprit as the Bears once again missed the playoffs. The Bears gave up 478 points- the most in team history. They also gave up a team record 6,313 yards. Historically, a good defense had always been the Bears' trademark. However, for the second straight year, poor defensive play had ruined their season. At the end of the season, both Trestman and general manager Phil Emery were fired.

After Trestman's dismissal, the Bears hired the well traveled John Fox, who had previously served as an assistant coach for eight college teams, a USFL team and four NFL teams. His current job with the Bears is his third head coaching position. As head coach, he has lead the Carolina Panthers and the Denver Broncos to Super Bowl appearances. He will attempt to do the same for the Bears.

The Chicago Bears are a part of the history of the NFL. As one of the original franchises, the Bears' history has paralleled the NFL's history.

NFL observers will never forget the tough defensive play of Bill George, Dick Butkus, Bronco Nagurski, Mike Singletary, Richard Dent and Brian Urlacher.

People familiar with the NFL will always remember the talent of Walter Payton, the speed of Willie Gault, the toughness of Mike Ditka and the colorful personality of Jim McMahon.

If Yankee stadium is the house that Ruth built, then the Chicago Bears are the team that George Halas built. That team has seen a rich and memorable history. What began in 1920 continues today. The NFL is different today than it was in 1920. However, the Chicago Bears remain part of the league. They continue to be one of the signature franchises of the NFL. The team that Halas built continues to endure.

The Yankees' calculation

By firing Joe Girardi, The Yankees are making a calculation: They are betting that they can hire a manager more suited to managing this particualr team. They are betting that someone other than Girardi is more suited to taking this talented team to a World Series championship.

Brian Cashman, Hal Steinbrenner and the Yankee brass acknowledge that Gerardi is an excellent manager. He has 10 straight winning seasons in New York. He has lead the Yankees to the playoffs most of those seasons. They Yankees won a World Series in 2009 under Girardi's leadership. No team in Major League Baseball has won as many games as the Yankees have in the past 10 years.

It has been said that Girardi is ready for a 7:00 game at 2:00. In other words, few managers are has competent or as prepared as Girardi. The Yankees have acknowledged that he has an excellent work ethic and a true understanding of the game.

Cashman and the organization believe that The Yankees need a more personable manager who is less intense. One former player said that Girardi is too intense , and that this intensity wears on a team after a 162 game season. The Yankees are hoping a less intense manager will make the team more relaxed.

Perhaps the Yankees are also concerned that after 10 years that Girardi is burned out. Maybe the Yankees believe that the team needs a fresh voice and a new approach.

The Yankees' calculation is understandable, but it is also questionable. There is no obvious replacement for Gerardi. There is no obvious choice in house or outside of the Yankee organization. Few, if any candidates , will be as competent or as prepared as Girardi is. Few, if any candidates, will be harder working or more dedicated than Girardi has been.

Girardi took a team that was supposed to be rebuilding to game seven of the ALCS. The Yankees finished one game shy of the World Series. Rebuilding usually involves taking one step backwards, so that you can take two steps forward . However, the Yankees did not step backwards. They simply took two steps forward. Girardi had a role in the Yankees' unexpected success this year. He deserves some of the credit for the Yankees ability to circumvent the rebuilding process.

However, Cashman, the Steinbrenner family and Yankee executives know the mood of the clubhouse. They know if players are happy with Girardi as a manger. There is universal respect for Girardi as a person, but perhaps the Yankees think that a manger with a different style and approach is needed.

The Yankees have been through similar decisions in the past. In the last 27 years the Yankees have replaced Bucky Showalter, Joe Torre and now Joe Girardi.

Showalter, along with the late Gene Michael, helped build the Yankee dynasty of the 1990s. When the late George Steinbrenner fired Showalter, he had initial misgivings. Showalter was told that he must fire one of his coaches or he would be fired. Showalter refused , and was fired. However, after Torre was hired, Steinbrenner called and offered Showalter his job back. Steinbrenner said that Torre would be promoted to general manager, and Showalter would be the manager of the team. However, Showalter felt it was wrong to get his job back after Torre had been hired as a replacement. So, Showalter declined the offer.

Showalter had guided the Yankees to the playoffs under the new wild card format. The Yankees lost to the Seattle Mariners in the only playoff series that Don Mattingly ever played in. The Yankees were headed in the right direction, so firing Showalter seemed questionable at the time. However, Torre would go on to have great success. Torre would lead the Yankees to 6 World Series appearances and 4 World Series titles.

Torre managed the Yankees for 13 years. After 13 years, the Yankees offered Torre an incentive laden contract. The contract had a base salary along with financial incentives that would kick in if the Yankees made the playoffs, won a playoff series, made the World Series or won the World Series. Torre tried to explain that he did not need incentives to do his best as manager. Torre felt offended by the incentive laden deal, and refused to accept the Yankees' contract offer. It's possible the Yankees' organization knew that Torre would reject the pact. So, it may have been a way for the Yankees to facilitate a change. Moving on from Torre was another calculation that the organization made.

10 years ago the Yankees believed that Girardi was the best manager for the team. Replacing Torre with Girardi offered the organization no gaurantees, but the Yankees felt comfortable enough to make the change. Girardi did not have the same level of post season success as Torre, however the Yankees did win the 2009 World Series under Girardi's leadership.

For the last 27 years, the Yankees have had three managers. All three have done a good job. The Yankees, a team known for its dysfunction in the 1980's, has become a model of managerial consistency and organizational patience, for the last 27 years. Now, the Yankees will attempt to continue that record with a new manager.

There is no obvious choice for Girardi's replacement. There are candidates who have managerial experience like Tony Pena, Willie Randolph, Pete Mackanin and Clint Hurdle. There are coaches like Rob Thomson, Jay Bell and Raul Ibanez who may be brought in for an interview. There are outside the box candidates like David Cone and John Flaherty who have also been mentioned. It's uncertain if the Yankees have a leading candidate in mind. It's more likely that many candidates will be looked at and someone may impress the Yankee executives during an interview.

The Yankees will probably look for a manager who can develop a rapport with their younger players who figured so prominently in their success this season. They will look for someone who can continue the development of Luis Severino, Aaron Judge, Gary Sanchez, Clint Frazier and other younger players. Al Pedrique, the manager for the Yankees' Triple A affiliate, may be a candidate for the job because of his rapport with those players. Raul Ibanez, Hensley Muelens and Reggie Willits have also been mentioned as coaches who could manage a young team.

In any event, it will be interesting to see who the Yankees hire. As Girardi leaves the Yankees, he has a lot to be proud of. The new manager will have a difficult act to follow. However, he should be given time to prove that the Yankees made the right calculation.

Overcoming challenges and adjusting to change: A perspective on Troy Aikman's career

Troy Aikman was born with club feet. He spent his first three years wearing leg braces. Eventually, thanks to good medical treatment, Aikman grew out of the condition. According to medical research, 1 in 1000 newborns are born with club feet. It's an ironic way for a gifted athlete to begin his life. However, it symbolized the need to overcome challenges in life and in sports. Aikman, like all people, has experienced changes and challenges. He has overcome these challenges throughout his life. His life, like all lives, has been marked by change and transition. In the midst of these changes and challenges, Aikman developed his character and personality.

Aikman was born on November 21st, 1966 in West Covina, California. He liked living in California. He liked riding his bike and developed a strong interest in baseball. In fact, his first dream was to become a professional baseball player. He was a pitcher and a shortstop. Initially, he showed little interest in football.

When he was 12, his parents informed him that the family would be moving to Henryetta, Oklahoma. The family would move to a farm and make their living as farmers. After dealing with leg braces as a child, this became the second major challenge of Aikman's life. He did not want to move away from his friends or from the comfortable California lifestyle that he and his family were used to. However, moving to Henryetta, Oklahoma and working on a farm, would be instrumental in developing Aikman's work ethic and character. As a youth, Aikman did not like his daily farm chores. Milking cows and feeding the pigs did not appeal to a young middle school student. However, Aikman respected his parents and learned about responsibility through these daily chores. It's a lesson that would ultimately serve him well throughout his life.

Growing up in Henryetta, Oklahoma helped him to develop as a person. While speaking to a group of high school students in Henryetta in 2012, Aikman told them "The person that I ultimately have become, things that helped me do some things that helped me do some things athletically were really shaped here in this town...I learned about hard work. I learned about integrity. I learned about character. I learned about your word meaning something...In the process of all that it was supported by this wonderful community... There are a lot of good people here." Aikman clearly was appreciative of the role the Henryetta community played in his development as a person. The people in the community helped him to become a good and responsible person - traits that would serve him well in life and athletics.

Aikman's father got his son his first paying job at 13. When he was 13, Aikman's father told him he was going to learn how to weld. He and his father were taught how to weld by a man who had his own welding company. After being trained, both Aikman and his father worked welding jobs for this company. This job was another opportunity for Aikman to develop his character and learn more about life. Eric Celeste, from "D Magazine" says "So began Troy Kenneth Aikman's first paid job. The pattern of early responsibility had been set." Aikman's father introduced his son to a job and another challenge. It was another challenge that Aikman was given. Through hard work and the guidance of his father, Aikman overcame the challenge and learned from the experience.

Aikman decided to play football because it was his father's favorite sport. Aikman did not consider football until the 8th grade when his father told him that tryouts were approaching. Aikman told Skip Hollandsworth of "TexasMonthly.com" that "Deep down inside I wanted to prove that I was as tough as he was." So, his participation in football began. He created and accepted yet another challenge.

Aikman also experienced success off of the field. In 1983, as a 17 year old, Aikman became Oklahoma's high school typing champion. Cheryl Hall, a business columnist for the Dallas Morning News, says Aikman was inspired to take typing class because of a teacher named Jean Froman. According to Hall, "His year older sister, Tammy, was supposed to be their high school's contender. She was the better typist, but she balked at the thought of competitive pressure." So, Troy Aikman went to the competition instead as the school's representative. After the competition was over, Aikman was announced as the state champion.

After high school, Aikman was offered a chance to join the New York Mets as a baseball player. Despite his love of baseball, Aikman decided to accept a scholarship at the University of Oklahoma. Coach Barry Switzer offered Aikman a scholarship the first time they met.

Aikman played for the Sooners during the 1984 and 1985 season. However, the offensive style of the team did not suit Aikman. According to Tom Coyne, AP Sports Writer, "Aikman ended up working out of a modified wishbone and never felt comfortable. In his first start as a freshman when the starter was injured, the 17 year old Aikman went 2 of 14 passing for 8 yards with three interceptions as the second ranked Sooners lost 28-11 to a Kansas team that entered the game with a 2-5 record." This must of been a challenging experience for Aikman and the Sooners. It was a rude welcome to college football for Aikman and it all but ended the Sooners national championship hopes.

Despite this initial setback, Aikman began the following season as the team's starter. He guided the Sooners to a 3-0 record before experiencing a season ending ankle injury. The following year, the Sooners were fully committed to the wishbone offense. So, Aikman decided to transfer to UCLA, which implemented a more traditional passing game.

Aikman remained undaunted after his struggles at Oklahoma. Aikman persevered and experienced a lot of success at UCLA. Robby Kalland of CBSSports.com says "Over two seasons at UCLA, Aikman completed 64.8 percent of his passes and threw for 5,298 yards, 41 touchdowns and 17 interceptions. In 1987, Aikman was named the PAC-10 offensive player of the year as the Bruins went 10-2 with a win in the Aloha Bowl over Florida. In 1988, Aikman won the Davey O'Brien Award as the top quarterback in the nation and was named a consensus All-American while finishing third in the Heisman Trophy voting. The Bruins went 10-2 again in 1988, winning the Cotton Bowl against Arkansas to end the season." Aikman led the Bruins to back to back double digit winning seasons. He led them to back to back bowl victories and established himself as the consensus number one draft pick in the 1989 NFL draft. After, a slow start to his collegiate career, Aikman finished strong.

Aikman was drafted first by the Dallas Cowboys. This was a new beginning for the Cowboys. Their legendary coach, Tom Landry, had been fired after 29 seasons. Jimmy Johnson, formally of the University of Miami, was taking over the Cowboys. They were a rebuilding team. Aikman completed his first season 0-11 and was injured for 5 games. It was a difficult season for both Aikman and the Cowboys. Leading a rebuilding team was another challenge for Aikman.

The second season was better for Aikman and the Cowboys. The team was a much more competitive team. Aikman threw for 295 yards against the Los Angeles Rams and 354 yards against the Phoenix Cardinals. Both were victories for the Cowboys. The Cowboys were 7-7 after 14 games and had a chance at the playoffs. A big improvement from the previous season. However, in game 15, Aikman separated his shoulder in a loss against the Philadelphia Eagles. Without Aikman the following week, the Cowboys lost to the Atlanta Falcons 26-7. The loss against Atlanta knocked the upstart Cowboys out of the playoffs. Aikman finished with 11 touchdown passes and 18 interceptions. He also had 2,579 passing yards. The numbers were not great, but it was clear that Aikman was adjusting to the pro game. He was developing his professional abilities and the Cowboys seemed poised to take the next step towards the playoffs.

In his third season, Aikman and the Cowboys would indeed make the playoffs. The Cowboys finished 11-5. Aikman finished with 11 touchdown passes and 10 interceptions. It was the first season that he had more touchdown passes than interceptions. He also completed 65.3% of his passes and threw for 2,754 yards. His completion percentage went up each of the first three seasons. Additionally, he threw for more yards each season. Clearly, Aikman was improving as an NFL quarterback. The Cowboys were also improving. However, for the third straight season, Aikman had been injured. He missed four games in 1991. He was ready to return for the Wild Card game against the Chicago Bears. However, coach Jimmy Johnson opted to go with back up quarterback Steve Buerlein, who guided the Cowboys to a 17-14 win at Chicago.

Buerlein started the following week against the Detroit Lions with less success. When the Cowboys were trailing 14-3, Johnson decided to replace Buerlein with Aikman who did not experience any more success than Buerlein. The Lions beat the Cowboys 38-6. The Cowboys could not score a touchdown against the strong Lion defense. Despite the injuries and the playoff loss, it was clear that both Aikman and the Cowboys were improving. The team seemed ready to go deep into the playoffs the next season.

The 1992 season would be a memorable one for both Aikman and the Cowboys. Dallas finished first in the NFC East with a 13-3 record. In 1992, Aikman threw 23 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. He completed 63.8% of his passes and threw for 3,445 yards. He had a quarterback rating of 89.5. It was the most touchdowns and yards of his career.

In 1992, the Cowboys beat the Philadelphia Eagles 34-10 at home in the playoffs. The following week, the Cowboys upset the San Francisco 49ers 30-20. In the fourth quarter of the game against San Francisco, the Cowboys lead 23-20. On the first down play, with everyone expecting a run, Aikman hit wide receive Alvin Harper on a slant route for a 70 yard pass play. It set up a 6 yard touch down pass to Kelvin Martin. The Cowboys advanced to the Super Bowl against the Buffalo Bills.

The Cowboys would beat the Bills 52-17 in Pasadena, California. The Cowboys' defense harassed the Bills into committing a Super Bowl record 9 turnovers. Aikman finished the game with 273 yards and four touchdown passes. He completed 73.4% of his passes and finished with an astounding quarterback rating of 140.7.

In his fourth season, Aikman had lead the Cowboys to a Super Bowl championship. Additionally, Aikman was named the game's MVP. His career seemed far removed from the challenges of his rookie season or the disappointment of his time at the University of Oklahoma. Perseverance had been rewarded for both the Cowboys and Aikman.

The Cowboys began the next season with two straight losses. Running back Emmitt Smith was holding out for an increase in salary and the Cowboys could not replace Smith's contribution. Repeating as champions seemed to be a difficult task for the Cowboys. However, after Smith returned, the Cowboys improved their overall play. The Cowboys won 7 straight before they lost two games in a row - including a loss to the Miami Dolphins on Thanksgiving Day. However, the Cowboys rebounded by winning their final five games. Despite a slow start, Dallas finished the season 12-4.

In his fourth season, Aikman had one of his best campaigns. He finished with 15 touchdown passes and only 6 interceptions. It was the least number of interceptions for a season that he would throw in his career. He completed 69.1% of his passes and he threw for 3,100 yards. His quarterback rating was a career best of 99.

The Cowboys beat Green Bay 27-17 in the divisional championship game and defeated San Francisco 38-21 in the NFC championship game. Aikman completed 28 of 37 passes and threw for 302 yards against Green Bay. He had three touchdown passes and two interceptions against the Packers. He completed 14 of 18 passes for 177 yards against San Francisco. He had two touchdown passes and no interceptions against the 49ers. He left the game against San Francisco with a concussion. It was uncertain if he would play in the Super Bowl, where the Cowboys would once again play against the Bills.

Concussions are dangerous for anyone. They can do permanent damage to the brain and make a person more susceptible to future concussions. To this day, Aikman has said that he cannot recall playing in this game against the 49ers. When he was talking to his agent, Leigh Steinberg, in the hospital, he did not know why he was there. Steinberg explained to him what had happened. Five minutes later, Aikman asked Steinberg the same question.

The NFL is more aware of it's responsibilities towards player safety than it was in the early to mid 1990's. The league is trying to reduce hits to the head and do it's best to protect the players. Additionally, players today are more aware of the dangers of playing football. It is a tough situation that the league and players are going through. The league is trying to be more respectful of the players, as the players weigh the pros and cons of playing football.

Aikman would play two weeks later against the Bills in the Georgia Dome in Atlanta. The Cowboys won 30-13. Emmitt Smith was named the game's MVP. The Cowboys trailed 13-7 at half time, but their defense shut out the Bills in the second half. The Cowboys became the first team to win the Super Bowl after losing their first two games. Aikman finished with pedestrian statistics. He was 19 of 27 for 207 yards. He had no touchdown passes and one interception. This game belonged to the running of Emmitt Smith and the defense of the Cowboys. However, Aikman had an efficient game and provided leadership on the field. The Cowboys had won back to back Super Bowls. Aikman and the Cowboys were both at the top of their profession.

Despite winning two Super Bowls in a row, the owner and head coach of the Cowboys could not get along. Jerry Jones and Jimmy Johnson parted ways after Super Bowl 28. Both are headstrong people and they were not able to get along any longer. Johnson had built a strong team that could endure the change. However, it was not a change that Aikman favored. Aikman felt that Johnson gave the team a lot of needed discipline. He did not believe that the discipline was as strong under Barry Switzer, the team's new coach.

The Cowboys finished the 1994 season with a 12-4 record and another NFC East title. Aikman had 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He threw for 2,676 yards and completed 64.5% of his passes. He finished with a quarterback rating of 84.9. Once again, Aikman had an efficient year for the Cowboys. Once again, he provided stable and consistent leadership for the talented team. Yet again, the Cowboys were Super Bowl contenders who were expected to go deep into the playoffs.

The Cowboys defeated the Packers 38-9 in the divisional championship game. The Cowboys' defense shut out the Packers in the second half. Aikman finished with 23 completions in 30 attempts. He threw for 337 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. Once again, the Cowboys were going to the NFC championship game. For the third time in a row, the 49ers would be their opponent.

The beginning of the 1995 NFC championship game was a disaster for the Cowboys. Due to various mistakes, the team found themselves trailing the 49ers 21-0 after only 7 minutes and 27 seconds of play. San Francisco defensive back Eric Davis intercepted Aikman's pass on the opening drive and returned it for a touchdown. On the next possession, the 49ers recovered a fumble by Michael Irvin which lead to a touchdown pass from Steve Young to Ricky Watters. Finally, Kevin Williams fumbled the ensuing kick off, which lead to a rushing touchdown by William Floyd.

It was arguably the most deflating beginning to a Cowboy game in their history. The dream of an unprecedented third consecutive Super Bowl championship had seemingly been shattered in just over 7 minutes. The Cowboys outplayed the 49ers the rest of the way. However, the damage had been done. Despite playing well the rest of the game, the Cowboys lost to the 49ers 38-27. The 49ers would go onto win Super Bowl 29 against the San Diego Chargers.

Entering the 1995 season, the Cowboys faced the challenge of getting back to the Super Bowl. They had won two Super Bowls in a row and made it to three consecutive NFC championship games. They were hoping to have a fourth good year in a row and a return to the Super Bowl.

In 1995, the Cowboys finished 12-4 and won the NFC East. Aikman threw 16 touchdowns and only 7 interceptions. He completed 64.8% of his passes and threw for 3,304 yards. His quarterback rating was 93.6. The Cowboys defeated the Eagles 30-11 in the Divisional Championship game and defeated the Packers 38-27 in the NFC Championship Game. Aikman played well in both games.

The Cowboys defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 27-17 in Super Bowl 30. Aikman completed 15 of 23 passes for 198 yards. He had one touchdown pass with no interceptions. He played an efficient game and helped the Cowboys' offense to remain steady throughout the game. However, the Cowboys intercepted three of Pittsburgh passes. Larry Brown was named the game's MVP. Brown intercepted Neil O'Donnell, the Steeler quarterback, twice in the second half. Both interceptions lead to touchdowns for the Cowboys.

The Cowboys are the only NFL team to win three Super Bowls in four seasons. However, the Cowboys have not made it back to the Super Bowl since their victory in Super Bowl 30. The Cowboys would win only one more playoff game with Aikman as their quarterback. 5 years after the victory in Super Bowl 30, Aikman retired at age 34 because of persistent back problems.

Aikman now works as a commentator for football games on Fox Sports. He provides insightful commentary on the game and gives a balanced review of both teams playing in the game. He shows respect for the game and the players, but also points out mistakes that are made by either a specific player or a coach. Aikman brings an understanding of the game to the telecasts.

In 1995, Aikman wrote a children's book entitled "Things Change." It attempts to help young people deal with the changes and challenges that they face. It is an attempt to help young people to overcome adversity.

Aikman's life has faced challenges both on and off the field. Aikman has done his best to overcome those challenges. He has done his best to deal with change and difficulty. Aikman has done his best to consistently persevere through struggles and change. Adjustments and struggles are never easy. However, with perseverance and steadfastness , anyone can overcome challenges.
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The Rock's father and grandfather helped pave the way for his successfull wrestling career

Dwayne Johnson, aka "The Rock" is a third generation wrestler. His father, Rocky Johnson, and his grandfather, Chief Peter Maiva were professional wrestlers. "The Rock" continued the family tradition and became the most successful wrestler in his family. However, his father and grandfather were arguably just as talented.

Rocky Johnson, the Rock's father, had many skills has a wrestler. He could beat his opponent in different ways. He was a fan favorite, and was considered a scientific wrestler. However, he could brawl with his opponent if he needed to. Johnson was a body builder who possessed outstanding strength and agility.

Johnson had a repertoire of effective wrestling moves. Johnson could implement an arm drag take down or use a high toss to escape a lock. At times, he beat his opponent with a hip toss, a drop kick or a body slam. Other times, he won with a back body drop or a sunset flip. Drop kicks or the full Boston crab were often his finishing moves.

Johnson and Tony Atlas won the World Wrestling championship over the Wild Somoan brothers. The match went back and forth between the two teams. The Somoan brothers, Afa and Sikka, were managed by Captain Lou Albano, who consented to the match under the condition that neither side could be disqualified. Albano tried numerous times to interfere with the match. While one of the Wild Somoan brothers held Atlas, Albano tried to hit Atlas with a chair. At the last minute, Atlas maneuvered out of the hold, and Albano inadvertently hit the Somoan brother with the chair, which knocked him to the canvas. Atlas proceeded to pin the Somoan brother, which gave Atlas and Johnson the tag team championship. This is one of the highlights of Atlas and Johnson's career.

Rocky Johnson said that he knew that his son would be a good wrestler. Johnson said "It was in his blood. I was a wrestler. His grandfather was a wrestler and he played football, and he said "My love is wrestling.'I said ok, I'll train you." Johnson said he knew his son would be a star because when he came home from breaks in college, he always wanted to train.


Chief Peter Maivia is sometimes overlooked. Since he wrestled in the 1970s and early 1980's many wrestling observers do not know much about him. However, he had a very successful and interesting career. maivia's bio on the WWE website states that "while the third generation of that family-The Rock- is the most well known, it all started with his grandfather, the legendary High Chief Peter Maivia." His bio states that Maivia "quickly took to his profession, winning numerous championships in the South Pacific and Hawaii before finally coming to the Unites States in 1970." Maivia experienced success as a tag team wrestler and as an individual wrestler.

After experiencing great success in San Francisco and Los Angeles,Maivia wrestled in Texas before he joined the WWE in the late 1970's. His WWE bio states that in the WWE Maivia wrestled (Superstar) Billy Graham for the WWE championship while he formed "a successful tandem with Bob Backlund." Maivia also helped train Graham, Wild Somoan Afa and Rocky Johnson- his future son in law.

In 2008 Chief Peter Maivia and Rocky Johnson were inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. Both inductions began with a speech from The Rock. Maivia was inducted posthumously because he died in 1982. Rocky Johnson received his induction and gave an acceptance speech.

The Rock spoke about his grandfather with sincerity. Regarding Maivia, the Rock said "He was many things to many people, but to my family he was everything." During the induction a brief clip of Maivia was shown to the audience. Several wrestlers discussed Maivia's contribution to professional wrestling. During the clip, the Rock said "My grandfather was the first Somoan wrestler to become known on a world wide basis." The Rock continued by saying that Maivia had a "magnetic personality that inspired me to be part of this business, inspired me to be a professional wrestler. My dad and my grandfather are the cornerstone of my career." The Rock continued by saying that he wanted to make his family proud through his wrestling.

Atta Johnson, Peter Maivia's daughter and the Rock's mother, formally inducted her father into the hall of fame. She said " My father was a soft spoken, gentle giant of a Somoan man with a loving generous heart and a beautiful, beautiful voice.He always had a uekele handy , and with a smile and a song that man lived his life to the fullest." Johnson went on to recognize the dedication of all of the professional wrestlers to their chosen profession. Regarding her family, she said "We have loved this wrestling business all of our lives. Here we are. The Hall of Fame. I love you."

The Rock began his speech about his father by saying "What the "soul man", my dad, was able to accomplish during his career was no small feat. At a time of tremendous racial disparity, he was able to cross all lines and become one of the most dynamic and formidable performers of his generation."

Then The Rock discussed some of his personal memories of his father's career . He said "I remember night after night watching him perform all over the country , being awed by his quickness, by his agility. He was an amazing performer. He moved like no one else. And I remember watching him when I was a kid. He used to throw these amazing drop kicks and I used to say to myself when I become a professional wrestler I want to throw a drop kick just like that." The Rock joked that when he first tried to drop kick an opponent, he only reaches his knees. He soon realized that he could not incorporate drop kicks into his wresting repertoire.

The Rock ended his speech by discussing how proud he was of his dad. The Rock said ""My dad was a hero to me. And I thought like all professional wrestlers he was larger than life." Then The Rock remembered some of the famous matches that his father was involved in. Finally, before he introduced his father, he said "There was nothing like watching a Rocky Johnson comeback."The Rock's speech was sincere and genuine.

Rocky Johnson walked onto the stage accompanied by a great applause. Johnson said "I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would ever be standing here accepting this award." Johnson went on to describe how he grew up in a small town in Canada. He described his experience in the National Wrestling Alliance and his eventual move to the WWE in 1983. He talked about how proud he was of himself and Tony Atlas for becoming the "first black tag team champions of the world."

During the speech the fans shouted "Thank you Rocky!" Rocky Johnson responded by saying "Without you, I would not be standing here." Rocky Johnson proceeeded to say that he believed his father in law was watching down on them from heaven. Johnson said "I know he is looking down on all of us with a smile on his face."Johnson then expressed gratitude for becoming the first non-Somoan high chief. He thanked his son for all he had done for him and thanked him for continuing the family's wrestling legacy.

The Rock benefitted from the wrestling legacies of his father and grandfather. Both inspired him to develop his wrestling skills. His father trained him to be the best wrestler that he could become. The Rock would not have been as successful without the examples of his father and his grandfather. Additionally, The Rock continued the legacies of his father and grandfather.

Building a successful baseball team

Building a baseball team is not easy. Many good and hard working people contribute to the process of building a successful team. A franchise needs a supportive owner, an insightful general manager, a team of good scouts and talent evaluators and an encouraging fan base. When teams are successful, there is enough credit to go around to make everybody happy. Egos must be left at the door. Everyone involved must be dedicated to a common cause.

An owner needs to empower the general manager to make baseball decisions. A good owner gives the franchise financial support. A good owner needs to hire the right general manager and empower that person to make baseball decisions.

A general manager needs to provide the vision for the franchise. He or she needs to create a blue print for improving the organization. Once the plan is created, the organization needs to implement it. Developing minor league players is probably the best way to rebuild a team. They are paid lower salaries than free agents. A team can have control of a minor league player for 6 years at a reasonable salary. After the rookie contract is over, a team needs to decide whether or not to re sign the player. Drafting the right players and developing them well is the best way to build a team. Once a core is in place, then a team can supplement the core with free agent signings.

Free agents can fill in the gaps that a team has. Free agent signings can shore up weaknesses. However, they are not a substitute for developing players from within. Many have observed that free agency is not an efficient way to build a team because free agents often demand long term lucrative contracts. Also, free agents are paid for past performance. They often do not play as well in the future. Teams try and sign players who are under the age of 30 because players over 30 are more susceptible to injuries.

During the 2008 offseason, the New York Yankees made three free agent signings and made one trade that illustrate how the right moves can supplement a team's core. They signed pitchers CC Sabathia and A.J Burnett and signed first baseman Mark Teixeira. Additionally, the team traded for outfielder Nick Swisher. All four players were still in their prime with presumably good years ahead of them. Sabathia was a true ace that season and Teixeira was an MVP candidate. Burnett also pitched well and helped them win the World Series. Swisher added more offense to a core that included Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, Johnny Damon, Jorge Pasadena, Robinson Cano and the newly acquired Teixeira. Burnett, who did not pitch well for the Yankees after the 2009 season, helped them win the World Series by winning game two after the Yankees had lost game one. These additions helped solidify an already strong team. They show how free agent signings and trades can supplement a core and help a team win a championship.

David Kaplan wrote about how the Chicago Cubs were rebuilt the last few years. His book "The Plan" chronicles the path that the Cubs took to rebuild their team and eventually win a World Series. Kaplan points out that the Cubs hired an experienced and accomplished team president in Theo Epstein, who helped guide the Red Sox to two World Series championships. Additionally, the Cubs hired Jed Hoyer to be their general manager and Jason McLeod to be their Senior Vice President. Kaplan points out that the Cubs build a strong front office. This helped the organization sign the right free agents and draft good players.

In addition to having the right people in front office positions, the Cubs hired the right manager. Joe Madddon had guided the Tampa Bay Rays to their only World Series appearance in 2008. They lost to the Philadelphia Phillies. However, making the World Series was a landmark achievement for a small market team like the Rays. The role that Maddon played in helping the Rays become successful did not go unnoticed throughout baseball. Maddon was hired by the Cubs to help them make their first World Series since 2008

Epstein told Kaplan that the Cubs benefitted a lot of from Maddon's managerial style. Epstein told Kaplan that the payers respected and admired Maddon. He created a relaxed environment that worked for new players and veterans. The Cubs needed this approach at this time. Maddon was uniquely suited to this team at this time. His approach worked for the Cubs.

The Cubs also made key trades and free agent signings. They traded for pitcher Jake Arrieta in 2013, two years before they hired Maddon. Arrieta struggled with Baltimore but the Cubs believed that he would benefit from a change of scenery. The Cubs believed that he was a better pitcher than what he had shown in Baltimore. The insight shown by the professional scouts and the Cubs' front office paid off. They were right. Arrieta started in the minor leagues for the Cubs in order to work in a pressure free environment. Also, according to Kaplan, the Cubs' pitching coach Chris Bowie helped Arrieta alter his pre game routine.

Signing free agent Jon Lester was also important for the Cubs. Kaplan says "Lester believed in the Cubs brain trust and he was confident that in time the Cubs would be winners. His big question though, was just how soon they would be contending. He had won two World Series rings with the Red Sox and he wanted more." However, Lester believed that the Cubs' leadership would help them become a top notch team. According to Kaplan, Lester also believed that the Cubs were assembling players of good character who were good teammates.

Both Arrieta and Lester helped the Cubs win the World Series in 2016. Both are good examples of how trades and free agent signings can help a team to win. Both show the importance of an organization making sound and good decisions.

The Cubs' organization also drafted good players and developed them well. Anthony Rizzo, Kyle Schwarber, Kriss Bryant, Addison Russell and Javier Baez were all developed within the Cubs' minor league system. They all contributed to the Cubs' 2016 World Series championship. They added youth and enthusiasm to the lineup. They added energy and talent to a Cubs team that had veteran leadership with Lester, Arrieta, Dexter Fowler and Ben Zobrist. The Cubs were a good blend of veterans and young players. The roster reflected a combination of good trades, wise free agent signings and good player development.

Scouting is an inexact science. It is difficult to project how high school or college players will play at the professional level. It's hard to measure how dedicated each player is and whether their skills will translate to the next level. Amateur scouts travel to watch high school and college players. Then the scouts fill out reports to give people within the organization. There is no substitute for seeing a player in person or talking to the player. However, even after seeing a player and meeting them, it is difficult to project how they will do in minor league baseball. All scouts and organizations can do is make an educated assessment of the player's abilities.

Teams look for offensive players who can hit for power and average, run well, field their position well and throw well. These are commonly referred to as "5 tool players." Players that can do many things well are sought after. Players that are versatile and multi talented are appreciated by major league organizations. Mike Trout, of the Anaheim Angels, is the best example today of a "5 tool player." He can hit home runs, steal bases, get on base often and field his position well. Bryce Harper and Manny Machada are also multi talented players.

Likewise, it is difficult to project how well a minor league player will adjust to the major league level. A pitcher may be able to get minor league hitters out, but may struggle against the major league hitters. Or a hitter may hit minor league pitching, but struggle against major league pitching. A hitter at the major league level will face pitchers who throw better breaking balls. Also,
pitchers at the major league level may have a better assortment of pitches.

After a player makes it to the major league, a team has to decide how patient it will be with the player. If a hitter struggles, should the team demote him to the minor leagues? Or should the team be patient with him and help him work through his struggles? If a pitcher is giving up too many runs, should the team continue to have him pitch at the major league level? Or should the team demote him to the minor leagues and ask him to develop another pitch? Player development is an ongoing issue for any organization. A player's development never ends completely. No matter how much money a player makes, he can still develop his skills.

Deciding when to bring a player up from the minor leagues is also important. A team has 6 years to work with a player that the team has drafted. So, an organization has time to develop the player. Some wonder if bringing up a player too early would ruin a player's confidence. If a player struggles, will the player lose confidence in his abilities? If so, can a player regain his confidence?

However, sometimes a young player can inject enthusiasm into a big league team. A young and talented player may be able t help a team immediately and inspire the team's veteran core. These are some of the considerations that an organization has when dealing with minor league players. During the month of September, major legue teams expand their rosters to 40 players. So, this can often be a good time to bring up minor league players.

A team also needs an overall strategy. An organization tries to answer these questions: How are we going to win games? Will we win with an emphasis on power? Will we try and play for the 3 run homerun? Or will we try to advance the runner through bunting, sacrifice flies, hitting runners over and stealing bases? What basic offensive approach will we have? The approach on offensive is dictated by the talent on the team. If a team has a decent number of power hitters, then playing for the three run home run may work. However, if the team is build around speed, then another approach will probably be better.

Organizations have to decide how they will develop pitchers as well. Will they limit the number of innings a pitcher can pitch when he is developing? Will organizations put young pitchers on a pitch count in order to preserve their arms? Or will organizations encourage young pitchers to pitch many innings in order to strengthen their arms? Experts disagree on what works best. Some believe that a pitcher should gradually build up arm strength. While other experts believe that pitchers would be stronger if they threw more innings at the minor league level. Both approaches seek to avoid injury. However, no matter what approach is taken, injuries may be impossible to avoid because pitchers throw so fast today. The speed that pitchers throw at may cause injuries no matter how a pitcher is developed. Former pitching coach Rick Peterson and former pitcher Ron Darling are among those who believe that overthrowing and pitching so fast are what is leading to injuries of pitchers.

The strategy used for the bullpen is also important. During the 1980s pitchers became more specialized. Tony Larussa and other managers used relief pitchers in specialized roles. Some were closers, while others were set up men. Still others were long relievers. Then later on, some left handed pitchers would only pitch to left handed batters. They became known as "left handed specialists."Closers pitch one inning to end a game. They try to "save" the game. Set up men try and hold the lead. Long relievers pitch when the closer is out of the game early.

Some observers have even suggested that teams go to a 6 man rotation in order to give starting pitchers more rest. Some think this approach would preserve the arms of the starting pitchers. Some believe this would help prevent injuries or at least make injuries less likely. For the most part,teams go with a 5 man rotation. No team has tried to go with a 6 man rotation for the whole season. Since teams make extensive use of their bullpens, starting pitchers are not taxed too much. A 5 man rotation probably makes the most sense

When building a team, an organization has to consider it's home stadium as well. The Yankees have a short right field porch, s they look for left handed power hitters who can take advantage of the dimensions of Yankee stadium. Additionally, Yankee stadium yields many home runs, so it makes sense for the Yankees to acquire and develop pitchers who keep the ball low I order to induce ground ball outs. If a pitcher gives up a lot of fly balls, he would not be a good fit for Yankee stadium. This was the problem with Phil Hughes- a fly ball pitcher. Hughes gave up too many fly balls to be a successful pitcher in Yankee stadium. Conversely, Masihiro Tanaka is successful, in part, because he keeps his pitches low.

Building a successful baseball team is difficult. The Cubs went 108 years before they won another World Series in 2016. Their opponent, the Cleveland Indians, last won a World Series in 1948. Teams need to hire the right people and draft the right players. Additionally, signing the right free agents and making timely trades can help strengthen the team's core. Even with everything in place, it is difficult to win the World Series. Injuries can derail a team's chances, and other teams can have excellent seasons. When a team is in the World Series, a team needs to win because it may not get back for many years. Every other team in Major League Baseball is also trying to improve. The league will always be competitive.

Trying to improve a baseball team is a year long task. Organizations scout amateur players throughout the year. Additionally, organizations continually evaluate and develop their own players. They are looking at other teams for potential trades. Organizations are always trying to stockpile talent and improve their team.

Win or lose, organizations take pride in their team's accomplishments. They are proud of the players they develop. They are proud of their successful free agent signings and timely trades. It's especially rewarding when all of the hard work results in a World Series championship.

Thankfully, 38 Special continues to rock into the night

After 38 Special performed at Tioga Downs Casino on July 28th, lead singer Don Barnes held up his guitar and spoke to the audience. In the midst of applause, he said "You guys are awesome. Thank you for being a part of our lives all of these years." The audience felt similar gratitude towards the band. Thankfully, 38 Special continues to perform and tour.

Tioga Downs donated all of the proceeds to local veterans groups. Every year Tioga Downs donates the proceeds from one concert to local veterans groups. The concert was originally scheduled for July 1st, but it was rained out. It was good that 38 Special came back to play for the local area. They performed with enthusiasm and genuine respect for the crowd.

38 Special began the show with "Rockin' into the Night," which is usually how they begin their concerts. The concert also featured their hits "Second Chance", "What if I'd been the one", "Wild Eyed Southern Boys", "Like No Other Night", "Back Where You Belong", "You Keep Running Away", "Teacher, Teacher" and other songs. The concert concluded with "Hold on Loosely" and "Caught Up in You." The band sounded good and the venue had good acoustics.

Their repertoire is a strong combination of classic rock songs and commercially successful ballads. Some prefer the rock songs, while others like the ballads. Some people like both. They have created a unique and distinctive sound. The presence of Barnes has helped the band maintain continuity. Many fans associate the band's songs with his voice.

Barnes is the only original member still with the band. Founding members Jeff Carlisi, Donnie Van Zant, Ken Lyons, Jack Grondin and Steve Brooklins are no longer with the band. Originally, the band had two drummers- Grondin and Brooklins. Van Zant is the younger brother of Johnny Van Zant and Ronnie Van Zant- two of the founding members of Lynrd Skynyrd.

38 Special started recording albums in the late 1970's. Their first two albums were not commercially successful. The band tried too hard to be like Lynyrd Skynyrd and Allman Brothers - two southern rock bands that they respected. However, the band soon realized that no one could perform southern rock like those two bands. So, the band stopped trying to imitate those two bands.

Barnes told Melissa Parker of smashinginterviews.com that 38 Special purposely tried to change and expand their sound. Barnes said "In the 70's we started out as Southern rock with country tones. But it has been done by the best- Skynyrd, the Allman Brothers and Charlie Daniels." Barnes said that Ronnie Van Zant told the band to stop trying to be like other bands. Van Zant encouraged them to create their own sound. When 38 Special created their own niche, they became more successful.

Barnes left 38 Special in 1987 and returned in 1992. He left to pursue music that was less commercial. He favored a more traditional rock and roll sound. He told Greg Kretschmar that 38 Special had discovered "album oriented rock" and was moving in a more commercial direction. The band was recording more ballads, and Barnes favored a stronger rock and roll sound. As Barnes says, "I wanted to amp it up."

Barnes says that when he was growing up, he was influenced by Eric Clapton's music. He told Kretschmar "If you're going to pick someone, you picked a good one there." Barnes told Kretschmar "We came from the day of Hendrix, Clapton and Mountain, Leslie West, ZZ Top and Bad Company. That was more what I wanted to do. Great big guitars. Muscles and melody." Some of 38 Special's songs reflect Barnes' respect for strong guitar riffs and strong melodies. The guitar is a focal point of the band's sound as well as Barnes' solo efforts.

In 1989, Barnes recorded a solo album entitled "Riding the Storm." The band featured the Pocora brothers from the band "Toto". The band also featured other good studio musicians. Barnes recorded the album through A & M Records. However, during the recording and producing of the album, the record label was sold to Polygram records.

Unfortunately, the master copies of the recordings were destroyed. Only Barnes had a copy of the recordings. His son moved and kept the recordings. Eventually, Barnes found the copy at his son's house and was able to have the copy re mastered and sold this year. The band does 3 of the songs from the album on their set list.

The band has always taken pride in their live performances. In 2011, they recorded a cd entitled
"Live from Texas." The cd featured some of their best recordings from concerts in Texas. The cds were sold at live performances.

The current membership of 38 Special are very talented musicians. They include Barnes; guitarist Danny Chauncey; drummer Garry Moffatt; keyboardist Bobby Capps; and bassist Barry Dunaway.

Chauncey has been with 38 Special since 1987. Chauncey said that joining 38 Special was natural for him. He told Scott Greene that he got along with the other members of the band from the beginning. Chauncey had co-written the song "I Wanna Go Back", which had been a big hit for Eddie Money. So, he had a good reputation as a song writer. He told Greene "I was allowed to contribute (to the ) songwriting from the beginning as "I Wanna Go Back" was a hit on the charts for Eddie Money around the same time that I joined, so the guys knew I was a capable song writer." Chauncey has been with the band for 30 years.

Before he joined 38 Special, Moffatt was considered the best drummer in the state of Florida. Previously, Moffatt was in a band called Sons of Doctors in the Orlando, Florida area. Everyone in the band was the son of a doctor. Barnes told WNCX radio in Cleveland that when Moffatt joined the band he was very sarcastic, which was something the band had to get used to. Barnes said the other band members had less sarcastic personalities. However, after Moffatt joined, the other members learned to give the sarcasm right back to him. He has been with the band for 25 years.

Capps started working with 38 Special in 1988, and formally joined the band in 1991. Capps is from Nashville, Tennessee, where he is a co owner of a recording studio with Chris Henderson from 3 Doors Down. When he is not touring with 38 Special, he helps to produce and record albums by other artists.

Dunaway has played music with multiple artists throughout his career. He is the latest edition to the band. He joined in 2014.

38 Special give concerts in 100 cities each year. Their enthusiasm for their music has not wavered. They like what they do. They appreciate the opportunity to play rock music before appreciative and enthusiastic crowds. Thankfully, they continue to rock into the night.