CA Lax Breakdown: The First Few Games
Not too shabby of a start for the Lady Braves, 3 games, 3 wins. Given favorable match ups to start the season, the girls really look confident following last night’s win against Gates-Chili. Tomorrow they will square off against a solid Penfield who have won their first two games (Brockport, HF-L).
Slightly Sloppy Start:
Hilton was a great team for CA to face in the opener, a middle of the road team that they should beat. They were able to come out strong and assert some dominance but almost fell apart at the end.
When a team has a 9-4 lead with 4 minutes to go, you need to close out that game. The Lady Braves had trouble working the ball out of their defensive zone allow some quality rushes from the Lady Cadets, led by Briana Kimble (3G), and trimmed the lead to two. Though once the Braves could control the ball, they were able to force Hilton to play more aggressive allowing CA to preserve the lead.
Saturday:
Different story on Saturday against the offensive juggernaut Corning Hawks. This team was just scoring at will. Canandaigua found a way to stop that.
There were a few keys to that game:
Draws:
Anytime a team can jump right back into the offensive mix off the draw, it will help push the momentum for that team. The Braves were able to rebound from a 3-2 deficit midway through the first and went on a scoring spree just on controlling the draw.
D’Amore girls:
Sisters Kendall and Lauren D’Amore were crucial in setting up many of those goals. Both were able to penetrate the inexperienced Hawks defense, drawing a double team and setting up easy dump off passes in front of the net.
Dakotah Savitcheff:
Her four goals made the biggest impacts. She was able to cut from everyplace imaginable to the goal, allowing open feeds from her teammates. Jordan Johnson, setting up from behind the net, pushed the defense over to the goalies right side, allowing Savitcheff to slide in unprotected for a goal, Caitlin Cavallaro had no chance of catching.
Defensive Positioning:
Mallory Frysinger and Haley Lukefahr were the two top scorers for the Hawks last year, in route to their sectional title. They were already picking up where the left off in the first two games. The Lady Braves held them to only 3 goals. By using sound defensive positioning they were able to eliminate passing and shooting lanes for Corning. Even when Corning tried to mount a comeback the Braves stepped it up.
The Confidence Game:
Last night was an easy victory for the Braves. Utilizing the new 10-Goal rule, the Braves were able to jump out to a huge, insurmountable lead. By taking advantage of a very green Gates-Chili team, Coach Sue Ellis was able to make a lot of substitutions and incorporate everyone into the ballgame. It’s always hard to get some of your bench players time on the field, especially in Section V, but there was plenty of time doled out last night.
For the starters, they were able to continue to build confidence and chemistry. As I mention on-air, Kendall D’Amore really stole the show. Whether it was winning a draw, forcing a turnover, setting up a goal or even scoring one, she set the tempo for CA.
The Braves forced a 3-2 rush in the neutral zone, D’Amore was pushing as Heather Groot was positioning herself on the left side of the goal. D’Amore charged, forcing the defender to force a double team on D’Amore, leaving Groot wide open. Groot received the pass and had an easy shot for a goal on the Spartans.
For CA they need to take that confidence and come into tomorrow’s game, focused and knowing they have a solid squad and rotation to base their attack on.
TDCD: The Office and how my buddy Bill should write for them.
So follow up on my post about how The Office needs to end. Well, my friend and fellow media critic, Bill, made a joke concerning The Hunger Games. I guess he is funny enough to write for The Office. Too bad he is not funny enough to write for CBS comedies.
Lazy Sunday Lisetnings: 4/2
Sunday’s are great for staying at home and getting some work done. I love using it as a way to get my prep work ready for my game broadcasts and set up my week. Of course, I love working on something while listening to some music. As of right now, I’m listening to a Moody Blues track, enjoying the rainy Sunday here in the Roc.
Being the audiophile I am, I always have a song or two stuck in my head. Rather than just let it sit there, I want to celebrate the tracks of my life. Well, maybe the just the tracks of this past week.
High and Dry – Radiohead
The Bends (1995)
Having dug The Bends out of my pile of CD’s, nothing says All-American, than a British band honoring Evil Knievel. It’s amazing how insane he was to do all those jumps and how we Americans grew a huge fascination out of his attempts. The interesting thing is that Radiohead were not really pleased how the song turned out, especially compared to their more noted later work.
I Can’t Escape Myself – The Sound
Jeopardy (1980)
This was discovered on a mission to find new music. While talking about quality music in a bar last week, someone suggested a band called The Sounds. Having terrible hearing in enclosed, crowded spaces, I inadvertently found the new wave band The Sound. Either way I’m happy with both discoveries.
Happy Birthday – Altered Images
Happy Birthday (1981)
For anyone who grew up in the 90’s and watched afternoon cartoons, WUHF would play this song when announcing the birthdays of the day. Of course after further investigation, Altered Images lead singer, Clare Grogan, appeared on one of my favorite episodes of Father Ted.
“The Pope closed down a lot of the factories that were making the potatoes and turned them into prisons for children.”
The nonsense she says in that episode really hits home to the Catholic me.
Girl U Want – Devo
Freedom of Choice (1980)
This was a beauty found during the “80’s at 8” on The Cool TV. Devo really pioneered the art of the music video. Then again, as a dork, I would be drawn to their neon and chrome color schemes and terrible dance moves. What do you expect from a guy who is enamored with anything Talking Heads did during the 1980’s. This leads to…
Brian Eno – MGMT
Congratulations (2010)
Any song honoring one of music’s most brilliant producers (very Talking Heads-ian) deserves to be loved by me. It almost inspires me to want to name a kid Brian Peter George St. John le Baptiste de la Salle Eno Pohorence.
Like this:
A Little Slice of Heaven: David Lynch’s America
While American cinema finds itself still stuck in a downward spiral, capitalizing on comic book franchises and best sellers, it’s great to look back at brilliant and artistic original stories portrayed on the silver screen. Having seen Blue Velvet for the first time, it is only fitting to elaborate and celebrate the truly artistic and unique mind of David Lynch.
Over the past few months I was lured into watching Twin Peaks by a couple of friends. Most of my friends watch a fair amount of television shows and after hearing about the great diversity of characters populating the fictional small northwestern city, I needed to see it for myself. Needless to say I was hooked. While the show was not entirely a David Lynch work, having paired up with Mark Frost, his influence and brilliance are definitely noted.
Upon completing Twin Peaks (only the TV series), I had to take in more of Lynch’s work. This is what drove me to Blue Velvet. The background of the film along with the themes and types of characters portrayed were what drew me to his later work on Twin Peaks. As one would look back, as Lynch had to overcome obstacles in his way, Blue Velvet truly deserves recognition as being one of the best films of the 1980’s and modern American film.
One thing that Lynch has understood and can illustrate on the screen is Americana. He knows what looks like everyday America. Knowing his own background and being perceptive enough to look beyond the surface, Lynch incorporated the small towns and cities where he grew up into his work. Having a father working for the Department of Agriculture, he grew up in the wooded areas of this country, absorbing the ideal setting for the towns of Twin Peaks and Lumberton. With this understanding of the look, feel and people of Middle America, he added his own twists as a storyteller to elicit a feeling from his audience.
Most notably in Blue Velvet, he hits the audience with the serene backdrop of Lumberton, an every town America. A warm, sunny day hits the town made of white picket fences, cared rose bushes and manicured lawns. With its quirky radio station, parading fire engine, Lumberton is as American as apple pie or the red of Jeffrey Beaumont’s Oldsmobile. In using this visual representation, Lynch allows the audience to believe that all is well and practically boring in town… for a few moments.
Both Twin Peaks and Blue Velvet are mysteries, but drawing away from the conventional story of figuring out who done it, Lynch adds feeling. In Blue Velvet, the main characters advance the story and themes through powerful emotion and actions that make the audience react to them. Of course Lynch was able to draw a negative reaction from Roger Ebert. In Lynch’s defense, Dorothy (Isabella Rossellini) needed to be psychologically tortured that way, by Frank (Dennis Hopper) to help build up the hero quality in Jeffrey (Kyle MacLachlan). With Twin Peaks, Lynch opted with using the supernatural, rarely a police tactic, to investigate the murder of Laura Palmer. While both techniques were away from the norm, Lynch was able to gamble on the audience and developed his own unique style from its success. Of course, for him, there was more to these stories than just the main problem.
As we follow along the main story of finding out the solution, Lynch introduces us to many supporting characters, all as unique and colorful as the town they live in, but he is able to use the location as a character in its own right. America, in the eyes of David Lynch, goes back to a more innocent era. The town has their noted places, a diner, a night club (complete with lounge singers), filled with noted, quirky regulars (log lady, Double Ed). As we are temporarily acquainted with these peculiar citizens, we feel more draw to story. This was used a lot more with Twin Peaks, especially with our frequent visits to Great Northern Hotel. With these All-American towns, we see that what seems to be normal for these characters, something sinister/mysterious lies beneath. Usually Lynch uses these characters to help push the storyline, drawing out the drama. This also allows Lynch to manipulate the ending allowing for more surprises and reactions to the audience.
For Lynch, coming off the commercially and critically panned Dune adaptation, he had to fight for the finished product of Blue Velvet. From having to adjust the budget, taking a pay cut and fighting to get the rights to the Bobby Vinton tune, Lynch was able to secure to final director’s cut with Dino De Laurentiis. Pushing hard for a personal project that he had been working on for years, his risk paid off, allowing him to prove himself worthy but also get the backing for Twin Peaks. With Twin Peaks, he was able to continue the same type of “America” we fell in love with Blue Velvet.
As American films try to rehash hackneyed stories it is a comfort to know that every so often a risky original story can be successful like Blue Velvet was for David Lynch. This film helped secure his legacy beyond Eraserhead and The Elephant Man. More importantly, he was able to show us that there was also something lurking in our, “little piece of heaven”.
Like this:
Who is Roy Hobbs?
The Natural is my favorite baseball film. Based on the novel by Bernard Malamud, the film adaptation took a different tone and mood. While some may criticize Hollywood for selling it out or making it sappy (especially the ending) it allows a more positive view of baseball.
Malamud’s story reads more of a tale of personal failure and faults. The story takes a lot from The Fisher King and issues of the post-Black Sox baseball years. However the Barry Levinson directed picture uses the story as a mixture of parable and American folklore.
Who is Roy Hobbs?:
He is a mystery to most. Similar to a cowboy in a Clint Eastwood film, his past is unknown to most. His wants and needs are simple but yet puzzling. As much as people want to find out who he is or what he wants, he is vague.
What we know is that he grew up in the rural farms of the Midwest. While instructed by his baseball loving father, he nurtured his God given gift of ability with a strong desire to succeed. This led to his ultimate dream… To be the greatest player in the history of the game. Roy earns a tryout with the Chicago Cubs, leaving behind Iris, his childhood sweetheart and the rest of his modest life for a chance at glory.
The Legend Begins:
On his way to Chicago he encounters The Whammer (a fictional Babe Ruth), who challenges the young unknown pitcher to strike him out. The mysterious southpaw does so, capturing the attention of a sportswriter, Max Mercy and the eye of Harriet Byrd.
With Byrd, Roy fell victim to his flaw of women, as she attempts to murder him. Despite her failure to do that, the bullet ridden Roy misses his tryout and vanishes from the game.
The Rise and Fall of Roy Hobbs:
Sixteen years pass and the modest but jaded Roy Hobbs has been called up to the New York Knights. He finally makes the major leagues. Overcoming his quagmire of proving his worth to manager Pops Fisher, Roy becomes a star. He feels motivated to succeed knowing that he wants to help Pops win a pennant along with take advantage of his last shot for glory.
Along the way, he encounters Memo, the bad luck girl, who seduces and distracts Roy. She aligns with The Judge, new majority owner of the Knights and gambler Gus Sands who look to taint the middle age star. As Memo looks to cause the slumping star to help the Knights lose, Roy needs the help of Iris to help him bounce back.
Iris:
In the film, Iris is a symbol of purity. Using her modest, simple Midwest background, she is needed to help Roy succeed. Their relationship is real, true and pure. Caleb Deschanel utilized different lighting to help us associate her role. As noted in the Chicago series, the bright light on Iris gives us the impression that her positive energy drives Roy to succeed. Her angelic presence pushes Roy to his Herculean feat.
The opposite is true with Memo, having her situated in dark New York City; her character has a dark aura. Most of her scenes take place at night or in poorly lit rooms in the daytime. Her sinister motives and lustful love for Roy helps symbolize the conflict and good and evil in the film.
The Conflict:
Iris, the ultimate good, grew up with Roy and loved to see him play, because he was everything baseball needed. Roy brought out the little boy and the love of the game. On the opposite end, Memo, Gus and the Judge were motivated by greed and power associated with baseball. Gambling and control over the players were still a fear in baseball. The judge looked to control the players, allowing them to orchestrate the game.
The Final Blow:
As the Knights approach the last game of the year, pennant on the line, Roy is hospitalized. Blinded by his flaws, Memo poisons him, allowing The Judge to blackmail Roy with his past. While it seemed like darkness once again will stop Roy, his angel comes to his aid. Iris and her positive presence push Roy to glory and securing his legend.
Many viewed the final home run in The Natural as a sappy ending, ruining the drastic opposing ending from the novel. Film allows a more visual representation of the book. In doing so, the words of the novel cannot translate well in a visual language. Artistically it is damning to depress and deprive a viewing audience who invested time and emotion to see Roy fail. Roy has to succeed, the good must vanquish the evil. Let the consequences of the game be paid by Roy following his last at bat.
Who is Roy Hobbs?
We all try to be Roy Hobbs. Roy loves baseball, more than money, more than women. His love for women and the glories of playing baseball have brought him down, but he never gave up on his love. His mysterious background and guarded attitude allow him to be more appealing to the audience, pushing us to root for Roy.
His compliment, Iris, is the ideal companion, supporting him when he falls down. Her love for what he represents is the rally cry for fans of the game and more so the film’s plot and events. If Roy had struck out and been blamed for taking the money, the audience is cheated, being robbed of the emotion and moral of the story.
Roy Hobbs is more than you and me; he is a modern American folk hero. What Johnny Appleseed, John Henry and Paul Bunyan were years ago, Roy Hobbs, mythical outfielder, was to the 20th century. He is full of quality values and a strong work ethic. He is also flawed but from these flaws there is redemption. That is who Roy Hobbs is – the greatest player there ever was.
TDCD: The Rise and Fall of Jim, Pam and The Ensemble Cast From Scranton, PA
It finally happened. Friday morning, while getting ready to watch some NCAA March Madness I receive a text. It’s from my friend, Bill, who I talk a lot of TV with. He text me saying (and this is paraphrased), “The Office needs to end”.
His main gripe was about how terrible of a character Nellie Bertram is and how she is essentially “the shark”. I knew he was telling me this because I have written off this show for the past few years. I’m still a casual viewer but needless to say, I still watching a faded star. I know this show is well past its prime.
Much like a fading star pitcher, this show was a network darling ratings ace, but now, from a comedy standpoint, seems destined for the bullpen. This show lost its fastball years ago and it seemed like a no brainer for Steve Carell to bow out “on top”. Though Carell is not the reason this show is just tired and no longer funny, so many factors are weighing on it now.
Sam and Diane meet Jim and Pam:
Season two is without a doubt the reason this show has lasted so long. The first season numbers were not exactly great, having to rebound a flat NBC Comedy lineup and live in the shadow of a Britcom legend. Though with some patience from NBC, the writers were able to separate themselves from the British version and instill its own life and legacy. The sophomore season saw the build up of legendary cold opens between Jim and Dwight, Michael burns his foot and we see the blossoming, innocent romance of Jim and Pam.
Classic NBC comedy logic, have that budding relationship and milk that for the series run as we saw with Sam and Diane (Cheers), Ross and Rachel (Friends), Niles and Daphne (Frasier). The Office writers kept the Jim and Pam storyline seen in the UK version or the show (Tim and Dawn) to appease the NBC executives. That “will they or won’t they” story helped build a strong fan base and cliffhangers for a few season finales.
What’s My Motivation:
Another thing that drew us in every week, was the drama brewing between the office and the modern workplace. Dunder-Mifflin was something many viewers related to, an obsolete business model facing the chopping block of the modern work world. With the idea of an overextended business looking to modernize and reduce its staff and physical assets, we were treated to the perfect comedy and drama mix. With the show introducing us to a mix bag of diverse and competent characters, we, viewers drew an attachment to them. Even though they are all fictitious we feel that their job security is as important and crucial as our own. As we see Michael battle corporate to keep the Scranton branch open, Carell does convincingly as he gave the show legitimacy by striking that balance of entertainer and actor.
By the time Scranton avoided doomsday and remained open, we noticed a slight change in Michael, the lynchpin of the whole operation. The story arcs became more about getting a date and schemes rather than being the insufferable boss. Once the office was saved and we saw Jim and Pam finally date/marry/have a kid/have another kid, we lost the purpose of this show. Thus creating…
The Gong Show:
Michael Scott quits Dunder-Mifflin and opens up The Michael Scott Paper Company. Consider the shark jumped. I remember that episode left a terrible taste in my mouth. Michael would never leave Dunder-Mifflin. He loves Dunder-Mifflin. Then to take that premise and just have them become paper pirates was just too much.
We started seeing more episodes become less about working in an office and become an over glorified day care center for adults. Of course at this time, with having the show go to Florida, you have to ask why we even watch. The show is becoming a runaway train of wacky happenings that is a far, far cry from the origin of the show.
A Whole Ensemble:
Ensemble shows rely on a collective strength of the cast. The Office had a great collection or unknowns and improv specialists, with a specific purpose. Now, the cast is too bloated and with the show seeing such drastic turnover each season, it allows for confusion. Then you take that cast and make sure everyone is involved in the Dunder-Mifflin dating service and you have a poorly played soap opera. These interactions from the cast feel too forced and no long feel interesting for a TV program.
Jim and Pam are becoming the worst characters on the show. We loved them because they felt and acted like real human beings. Now, they are becoming a parody of themselves mixed with sitcom stereotypes and clichés. Point in case, Pam’s Replacement, an episode where Jim has to essentially lie to Pam saying that her replacement is not attractive. As the office tries to not only prove Jim’s lie and make Pam jealous, this reveals the story to be out of character. We dedicated a few years watching Jim and Pam find each other, a pure and true romance. Having the writers question that unrelenting love between those characters seems cheap and insulting to us. Pam and Jim are beyond such sophomoric bickering.
Dwight is equally as terrible. Granted, his character was always polarizing as he was used as a foil and sometimes antagonist on the show. His storylines keep going into the realm of the unbelievable. Especially, as Rainn Wilson looks to create a spin-off (anticipated failed spin-off), it feels like Dwight is already auditioning for a lead in to “Up All Night”.
The naming of Andy as the new regional manager was a poor decision. As Ed Helms’ stock in Hollywood rises, his character on The Office seems less important. Honestly, he has too much going right now; he should be looking out of this gig. He should be cashing in on Judd Apatow films and Hangover 3, 4, 5, 6, Hangover VS Jason. From the character element, Andy would never be boss. One, he was a poor salesman (Dwight is their top seller). Two, despite his Cornell degree, how many anger management graduates become regional managers at a fledging paper supply company?
The Office is and will be secure in its legendary status. It is one of the greatest ensemble comedies in TV history, but somewhere along the line the quality took a noticeable dip. Though if you’re failing NBC, how long do you keep this show around? Where do you say, no to this show? Parks and Rec along with 30Rock are hitting their peak. You need to find a way to cash in on new properties or just find yourself looking up to CBS’s ratings kingdom.
Preparing For “Goon”
Since the late 1970’s, one film has set the benchmark for hockey films, Slap Shot. Now, Hollywood, and more recently, Sports Illustrated, attempt to replace the undisputed champ by hyping Goon. While, some hockey fans seem excited for this film, opening in select theatres March 30th, I still feel skeptical of this picture.
If there is one thing I always hate about hockey’s reputation is the generic perception sold to the American public (especially through movies) that hockey is just a brutal blood sport. Hockey players are evaluated by lost teeth and fighting majors is an abomination to such a graceful and skilled sport. I just hope this film looks to enrich the audiences’ idea of what hockey truly is as opposed to what we commonly associate.
Defending Slap Shot
Personal bias takes hold here. Slap Shot is the greatest sports film I have ever watched. To me it is better than Rocky, The Wrestler and The Natural. Nancy Dowd’s screenplay took a rather humorous but realistic look at minor league hockey in America. Following her brother, who played Ogie Ogalthorpe, for a season with the Johnstown Jets, it took a hard look at what hockey had become.
Hockey in the 1970’s was quite a turbulent time. The NHL expanded (well okay 1967, but more teams were added in the 70’s), they had to fight a new foe (the WHA) and had to defend their style of play against the emerging Russian school of thought. All of that was barely touching the surface as teams began to embrace more physical play, evoking a pugilist attitude.
The Philadelphia Flyers took claim to using their rough play to new levels by winning Stanley Cups but securing a stronger legacy in fighting. When they weren’t beating you on the scoreboard, they were beating you up in fighting majors. The rest of the league and North American hockey took notice. Slap Shot dealt with this.
While the Hanson Brothers delighted viewers with their locker room chatter and fighting majors, Dowd was attacking the hockey status quo. Hockey was turning into a mess. Old time hockey was being pushed aside in lesser hockey markets for the three ring circle of “boxing on ice”. Of course over time and over numerous incidents questioning the need for fighting, hockey is changing once again.
While Goon, written by Jay Baruchel and Evan Goldberg, look to make it light hearted and actually express the life of the enforcer, hopefully they deal with it in the same bittersweet light, Dowd addresses it.
Defending Enforcers
Look, I’m not one of those who hate fighting in hockey. In fact, I love it. Granted, the league is really trying to tone down the violence with Sidney Crosby getting banged up along with the fear of goalie running, the enforcer is still a role needed. In the 1980’s Wayne Gretzky was able to benefit from the enforcer. Hell, Mark Messier was his own enforcer as the Oilers were able to protect the talent and win cups.
With the scare of long term head trauma become a concern for hockey’s prize fighters, Goon doesn’t overlook that. Liev Schreiber’s character is the model in the film portraying the career enforcer. Hopefully, Montreal natives, Baruchel and Goldberg use him to be somewhat serious about that aspect of hockey.
Defending our own Goons
Spending my youth in Rochester allowed me the privilege of going to numerous Amerks games, featuring bloodshed and fighting majors. My high school years, many nights were spent rooting for Sean McMorrow, who barely lost a fight in my attendance. Granted that was during the coaching days of Randy Cunneyworth. Cunneyworth, though not an official “goon”, was the kind of player who was willing to win at any cost and was no stranger to fisticuffs.
Rob Ray is still a legend here in Western New York. No, he was not noted for goal scoring but as an acting enforcer, he was the reason opponents thought twice about going after a star Sabres player. Of course he was also credited with a NHL rule. So thank Rayzor for your fight straps.
That aside, enforcers are a necessity in hockey, especially minor league hockey. Interviewing former Amerk and Ray linemate, Scott Metcalfe, on whether teams need protection, he said that for guys to score forty goals, “you need someone to go to the butcher.” In layman’s terms, you need someone willing to take one for the team.
There is plenty of truth there. Hockey teams need a power forward willing to drop the mitts and try to win that emotional and momentum favor you get from fighting victory. Ask Milan Lucic, no one dare mess with him because his past earned him respect. Even after his run in with Ryan Miller, he demanded his respect.
Respect is easily lost as it can be gained. Todd Bertuzzi is the most chilling of examples along with Dale Hunter. Though I don’t think anyone has earned the derogatory term of goon better than Marty McSorley. But there are always exceptions.
I want to see Goon. While I believe it cannot eclipse Slap Shot for being such a complete film, I expect it to have some things going for it. I ask that viewers who watch it try to take it with a grain of salt and try to not take it for a serious look at what hockey; especially minor hockey is all about. We need to defend a great game.
Preparing For “Goon”
Since the late 1970’s, one film has set the benchmark for hockey films, Slap Shot. Now, Hollywood, and more recently, Sports Illustrated, attempt to replace the undisputed champ by hyping Goon. While, some hockey fans seem excited for this film, opening in select theatres March 30th, I still feel skeptical of this picture.
If there is one thing I always hate about hockey’s reputation is the generic perception sold to the American public (especially through movies) that hockey is just a brutal blood sport. Hockey players are evaluated by lost teeth and fighting majors is an abomination to such a graceful and skilled sport. I just hope this film looks to enrich the audiences’ idea of what hockey truly is as opposed to what we commonly associate.
Defending Slap Shot
Personal bias takes hold here. Slap Shot is the greatest sports film I have ever watched. To me it is better than Rocky, The Wrestler and The Natural. Nancy Dowd’s screenplay took a rather humorous but realistic look at minor league hockey in America. Following her brother, who played Ogie Ogalthorpe, for a season with the Johnstown Jets, it took a hard look at what hockey had become.
Hockey in the 1970’s was quite a turbulent time. The NHL expanded (well okay 1967, but more teams were added in the 70’s), they had to fight a new foe (the WHA) and had to defend their style of play against the emerging Russian school of thought. All of that was barely touching the surface as teams began to embrace more physical play, evoking a pugilist attitude.
The Philadelphia Flyers took claim to using their rough play to new levels by winning Stanley Cups but securing a stronger legacy in fighting. When they weren’t beating you on the scoreboard, they were beating you up in fighting majors. The rest of the league and North American hockey took notice. Slap Shot dealt with this.
While the Hanson Brothers delighted viewers with their locker room chatter and fighting majors, Dowd was attacking the hockey status quo. Hockey was turning into a mess. Old time hockey was being pushed aside in lesser hockey markets for the three ring circle of “boxing on ice”. Of course over time and over numerous incidents questioning the need for fighting, hockey is changing once again.
While Goon, written by Jay Baruchel and Evan Goldberg, look to make it light hearted and actually express the life of the enforcer, hopefully they deal with it in the same bittersweet light, Dowd addresses it.
Defending Enforcers
Look, I’m not one of those who hate fighting in hockey. In fact, I love it. Granted, the league is really trying to tone down the violence with Sidney Crosby getting banged up along with the fear of goalie running, the enforcer is still a role needed. In the 1980’s Wayne Gretzky was able to benefit from the enforcer. Hell, Mark Messier was his own enforcer as the Oilers were able to protect the talent and win cups.
With the scare of long term head trauma become a concern for hockey’s prize fighters, Goon doesn’t overlook that. Liev Schreiber’s character is the model in the film portraying the career enforcer. Hopefully, Montreal natives, Baruchel and Goldberg use him to be somewhat serious about that aspect of hockey.
Defending our own Goons
Spending my youth in Rochester allowed me the privilege of going to numerous Amerks games, featuring bloodshed and fighting majors. My high school years, many nights were spent rooting for Sean McMorrow, who barely lost a fight in my attendance. Granted that was during the coaching days of Randy Cunneyworth. Cunneyworth, though not an official “goon”, was the kind of player who was willing to win at any cost and was no stranger to fisticuffs.
Rob Ray is still a legend here in Western New York. No, he was not noted for goal scoring but as an acting enforcer, he was the reason opponents thought twice about going after a star Sabres player. Of course he was also credited with a NHL rule. So thank Rayzor for your fight straps.
That aside, enforcers are a necessity in hockey, especially minor league hockey. Interviewing former Amerk and Ray linemate, Scott Metcalfe, on whether teams need protection, he said that for guys to score forty goals, “you need someone to go to the butcher.” In layman’s terms, you need someone willing to take one for the team.
There is plenty of truth there. Hockey teams need a power forward willing to drop the mitts and try to win that emotional and momentum favor you get from fighting victory. Ask Milan Lucic, no one dare mess with him because his past earned him respect. Even after his run in with Ryan Miller, he demanded his respect.
Respect is easily lost as it can be gained. Todd Bertuzzi is the most chilling of examples along with Mike Gartner. Though I don’t think anyone has earned the derogatory term of goon better than Marty McSorley. But there are always exceptions.
I want to see Goon. While I believe it cannot eclipse Slap Shot for being such a complete film, I expect it to have some things going for it. I ask that viewers who watch it try to take it with a grain of salt and try to not take it for a serious look at what hockey; especially minor hockey is all about. We need to defend a great game.
Mediaphile: Bud Bowl
As a media obsessed journalist, I love to take time and reflect on great pieces of popular culture. In honor of Super Bowl weekend, I’m taking a look at the brilliance of… BUD BOWL!
The Bud Bowl, in my eyes felt more like a real competition than the actual big game. Of course with advertising juggernaut, Budweiser, it’s not too hard to imagine the meticulous detail put into these series of ads for each Super Bowl. Please note this was still a time when beer companies could do this stuff, along with this and this and people didn’t think it was influencing kids to become alcoholics by their sweet sixteen.
Bud Bowl allowed fans to see a tongue-in-cheek look on the ever-changing landscape of pro football so let’s go to tape.
Simple set up. Bud playing Bud Light as we watch this tightly contested match up. A key turnover sets up a crucial field goal attempt to decide this one. No wait!!! Suspense as the Bud Bowl is held up by thirsty partygoers.
Note: Players saying, “Hello Mom!” and clipboard throwing.
Hype, lots of hype. Seems like a bowl game to me.
Love the “Bud Announcers” decked out in the cold weather jackets. Also, I like the Bear Bryant/Tom Landry fused Bud Light coach, looking to play some “foo’ball”. Houndstooth works for Bud Light.
Key to this match up is Budweiser looking to stop Bud-way Joe. All he needs is a mink coat. Maybe some jockey ads.
Is it legal in the BFL rulebook for Billy Bud and Bobby Bud to wear none-league marked bandanas?
I like Budweiser with their beast… The Freezer. I anticipate big things from him.
With the low temps and chance of snow and ice, watch the running game.
I love the slight reference to “tear away” jerseys.
Can The Freezer beat the Washer, the Dryer and Kitchen Sink?
What… a…finish!
We’re really hyping this up with Chris Berman, Don Meredith and Keith Jackson. Bud Bowl is here to stay.
I’m worried about Bud-way Joe’s injury. Do this mean he will have to stalk sideline reporters asking for kisses?
Nice idea, the helmet cam, what comes off as a joke became a reality for FOX’s MLB telecasts to bring us closer to a ball game. Of course the NFL brought in the elevated tracking camera as did the NHL.
Hopefully, Bud Dry is represented by Drew Rosenhaus… or Jerry Maguire and got that huge signing bonus.
Did the “Bud Bowl Boogie” hit #41 on the Billboard Chart?
Wait? Ads in an ad? Sea World blimp?
“Keith, these bottle came to play.” – Dandy Don Meredith
Wait? Eagle’s nuts too?
Is that opener legal?
Bobby Bud seems a bit distracted.
Oh no! THE BAND IS ON THE FIELD. Poor John Elway.
That marriage is ending in divorce. I’m calling it.
Apart from this stupid set up, no bottles playing, no Keith, no Don, no fun!
Bud Light led by… WAIT!!! ROGER DORN!?! Dorn’s oh-for-the century against this guy! With plenty of foul tips.
Team Bud is all about showmanship. Led by Joe Willie Namath, sans sideburns.
Who the hell is Karen Duffy?
Bud “Neon” Light. I wonder if he had a Nike shoe deal?
Now, come on, the Budweiser rocket has to be illegal!
Kudos for Corbin to argue on the side of state bottle return policies.
The Illumimator has to be on steroids. What is the BFL guideline on wheat and barley supplements?
Thank God Marv Albert is calling it. I love his work on SNL or NBA videos from the late 80′s.
I like Coach Ditka leading Budweiser. His defensive mind should give his offense some confidence.
Bum Phillips just doesn’t have enough experience to take down Coach.
Bum can’t stop those fakes.
That Basher is one tall boy.
You can’t throw the Basher out, we’re getting robbed!
We have had the Fog Bowl, the Ice Bowl but now the wind bowl? This game being played in Chicago?
Coach Ditka better filed a complaint for the replay of the last-minute of action.
In the end, the Bud Bowl did get progressively stupider, as Budweiser need to give people a reason to watch and hopelessly win some cash. Not to mention promote different sizes of their product.
Auburn Maroon Report: The Last 2 Weeks
It seems like yesterday the 2011-12 basketball season was just starting. The Maroons held off Rush-Henrietta on a last second drive for their first win, in their first game (at home) of the season. From there it felt like Auburn was going to be able to recapture the same kind of run they had last year.
Too bad it did not last. The Maroons followed up that dramatic win with some heartbreaking losses Fayetteville-Manlius (59-53) and Corcoran (77-74 OT) that very same week. Then it felt like every single game was going to be decided in the last minute of play. In all actuality it was. Apart from the losses to West Genesee, Utica Proctor and Friday’s loss to Cicero-North Syracuse, every single game has been a battle to the end.
It seems so odd that would occur in one year for one team. For Coach Tim Darnell it has to be nerve racking for him. This year’s squad has had to overcome many obstacles and yet through it all he always seems to have his team ready to play. As the regular season comes to a close and the Maroons on the bubble of making the playoffs will they have enough left in them to get in?
The Hardest Part:
One thing hurting the Maroons is depth. Not that this is a newsflash, this has been the story all year. Especially with the loss of so many seniors last year and a JV program with too many green players, Darnell had to use what was at his disposal.
With the Maroons losing Dan DeFranco this past week, it hurts their depth at guard. Granted for sophomore Trent Ward, he’ll see his minutes increase, it means the Maroons have only 8 players to work with.
James Feocco will finally be healthy to play this week and yes, while that moves the roster total to 9 players, it will be tough to see if he is healthy enough to be effective from the bench. Having missed essentially the whole season, it is so hard to go from being at the games as a cheerleader to be suited up ready to play down low against some tough opponents. The Maroons will have plenty of work ahead of them as they have to face off against four winning teams: Henninger, Nottingham, Fayetteville-Manlius and Oswego.
With such a limited bench, Darnell has been able to use that small number of bodies to his advantage. In the last few weeks he has been able to establish a rotation of players who have been very effective against larger rosters. I felt his coaching really worked well in Oswego on Tuesday, utilizing center Luke Boedicker, whose length was able to deter Buccaneers from driving to the hoop when teamed up with Joe Wilson.
The Unlikely Scenario:
Now, some might ask, “why doesn’t Darnell call up some JV players to fill out the bench?”
Granted the JV team is much larger this year with the elimination of the freshman team, but there is the key. That roster is loaded with lots of potential but to much inexperience. A majority of that team is not ready for the primetime. Talking with people during the last couple of weeks the only play who has any semblance of size and skill to even be worthy of a varsity spot is Mike Charles.
The freshman guard has the length, the speed and shooting touch to play varsity but it’s too early. With the way Coach Darnell has that team situated with his rotation and with so many guards as it is, Charles would be wasted in a varsity uniform this year. Give him time during the off season and have him work with the varsity squad. Come next November I would expect him to have the same role Trent Ward has this year, coming off the bench as an offensive substitution.
I do want to add that this years freshman class does have lots of skilled players there can be quite a few guards/forwards who can be effective in a few years.
Where Do We Go From Here?:
On the plus side for these last four games, the Maroons have already played three of them this season. Henninger is by far the toughest test. This team is easily the best team in AA in Central New York. If they can beat Proctor, they can beat anyone (and have).
Coach Darnell is going to have his scouting report on this team and he will break it down for the boys. The key for Auburn is that they cannot afford to start off flat like they did on Friday night. Henninger will not allow teams to catch up to them. And for this Auburn team that seemed emotionally exhausted, they cannot afford to play that kind of game. The Maroons have to come out strong and smart on Tuesday.
Friday, Auburn is at Nottingham, who are looking very good this year. Though the Maroons did have them where they wanted them in the last two minutes. However, Auburn could not execute imbounding plays and took themselves out of the game. They cannot repeat that.
From there they face off against Fayetteville-Manlius. The Hornets started off strong, getting lots of help from freshman, but have cooled off. They have lost 3 of their last 6 games. Auburn did have plenty of chances of beating them in December but their shooting went cold.
The Maroons close out the season against Oswego. This is a team they were able to shut down defensively. The only thing that hurt Auburn’s chances in that game was losing Kareef Rufus to fouls in the fourth. While subbing in Matt Nolan and Boedicker were effective, Kareef is more explosive of a threat and that turned them into a one dimensional team.
The Final Thought:
Auburn has to win. Simple as that. They need to find a way to hold onto victories. Many of their losses were decided in the last two minutes. Darnell even mentioned this, that while these games are competitve they need to close them out. At this point of the year, can they do it? We’ll find out starting Tuesday on WAUB.
