Fair Weather Fans

Cincinnati is known for their fair weather fans, whether its the Bengals, Reds, Cyclones, UC, or XU. It seems to me that we find better things to do when our favorite teams are in a slump and we want nothing to do with them. I know not many of the local teams in recent years have had that great of a record, but now that the Cyclones are in the playoffs for the second year in a row, there are dramatically higher numbers in attendance at US Bank Arena. This weekend, the Reds are coming home with above a .500 record, and with the weather in the 80s, the fairweatherers are sure to come out to support the team. Just wait until September, when the only thing that's scorching is the weather and they have to pay people to come out to the Reds games, when the team is in second last place. I'm not trying to be pessimistic, I really am an optomist when it comes to the Reds, and would be proud to call myself a Reds fan at all times during the season. I just know that history has a record of repeating itself, and this is what has happened the past 5+ years.

Sweet Summertime

There is nothing like the crack of the bat, the warm summer sun on your face (in my case, frying my face off), and the explosive atmosphere at a Reds game. Baseball season is finally back in gear, and there is no greater season in the world. I look forward to Opening Day every year and know that summer is near. It also helps that my dad works down at the stadium and he is always coming home with goodies or stories to tell about his experience in the bullpen with the boys. So far, the Reds are off to a good start in the season, and I just hope they can continue to contend in their division. I feel like Dusty Baker has a good grip on the team and knows where his priorities should be. I can't wait to go down to a game, enjoy a few beers on a warm summer night, and go home craving a Skyline coney, which never fails to happen.

Mumbling Mess

This has really nothing to do with sports, but...
So this week I was awarded the St. Catherine Medal at the Honors Convocation during the Celebration of Teaching and Learning. This award is given to a junior at school who shows a commitment and selflessness to their school, church, and community. I was shocked I was even chosen by Judi Heile and the board, and I still don't know how they figured I was best for the honor. I don't feel as though I am deserving enough for this prestigious award, that there are so many other people at the Mount that do much more than I do, and how there is always room for me to fit more service into my life. When I gave my speech to accept the award, I was nervous that I wasn't supposed to be speaking, for no other award winners had said anything yet. I stumbled over every word and was caught up with emotion when I came to all of my thank you's. Apparently, I was successful, as I got a lot of feedback about what I said, and everyone liked my shout out to Coach Newman. Coach Murray told my brother that I brought a tear to his eye (which I find funny). At the baseball game at Midland Wednesday night, AD Steve Radcliffe tracked my brother down to find out if we were related and to talk about me. Hopefully this is a good sign and he is able to teach me a thing or two about Athletic Directing and the sports industry. Thanks to all those that came out to show their support and especially Dr. Schoenstedt for the recommendation!

Opening Day

Reds season is officially underway with the traditional Findlay Market Opening Day Parade, followed by a close loss by the home team. Unfortunately, I was not able to get tickets to the game, but I enjoyed the game from the warmth of my dry house. Although I would have enjoyed seeing the game in person, the rain and cold were not something I wanted to have any part of. I figured there are 80 more games I can go to that everyone else seemingly forget about. Although the atmosphere is not the same, a Reds game is a Reds game to me. There is so much talk about moving the openers back in date or switching cities due to the weather conditions. I think the weather in Cincinnati is so unpredictable that a week really wouldn't do much. Places like Chicago, Milwaukee, and New York would be miserable to attend games. How ridiculous would it be if the Reds opened their season up in another city other than Cincinnati? Would the fans really travel to be there and would those that want to go and how will those that have made it such a tradition here with their families and friends react? With all of the new stadiums being built, how haven't they caught on to adapt to the weather trends over the years? Even as far north as Minnesota, they just built a stadium without a roof! But, the Reds were the first team in professional baseball and should always have the home opener. I can't imagine it being anywhere else.

So Long Sarasota

My parents just got back from their two week voyage to St. Pete Beach and Venice. In a way, I'm relieved to have them back, but I would have liked a few more days to myself. I never realized how much goes into taking care of the daily responsibilities like caring for the pets and keeping up with the housework. One of many unexpected situations that came up while they were gone was the kitchen ceiling having water damage from the leaking roof that has yet to be fixed from the wind storms in the fall. I had the duties of contacting the insurance adjusters, dealing with repair men, and trying to relay the information back to my parents as to what was taking place. This went on for all but the first few days they were gone, so I didn't have much time free of stress.
One thing my parents did get to experience was the second last game the Reds would play at Ed Smith Stadium. My mom said it was so scorching hot they only made it through the 6th inning. For purchasing them on game day, they had great seats down the first base line, only two rows behind the dug out. She said how sociable the players were and how former Reds such as Eric Davis stood along the stands and signed autographs until everyone that wanted one had been taken care of. Although I never got to make it down to Sarasota for Spring Training like my life goal had been, I feel as though I was there through the stories brought back by my parents. If you have any stories or thoughts about Spring Training or the Reds' final year at Ed Smith Stadium, check out my Facebook group at: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/group.php?gid=51327557062&ref=ts