Brian Dawkins will never forget the Jacksonville, Fla., neighborhood where he was raised. What drives him, though, is how far he’s come from there.
When Dawkins threw a Christmas party Tuesday for 75 foster children from Arapahoe and Jefferson Counties, he shared with them a message of hope and empowerment.
“Don’t let where you are affect your future,” Dawkins told the kids from the Arapahoe-Jefferson Counties Collaborative Program for Foster Care and Adoption. “It’s about where you’re going to finish.”
With the help of Mile High United Way and ProLink Sports, Dawkins brought this group of children together to share some of his blessings this holiday season. The Denver Broncos’ all-pro safety welcomed them to the place where he does his work, the Broncos’ training facility, and gave them a meal, gifts, a photo with Santa Claus and him, and a personal message.
“This is something I truly live by,” Dawkins said. “I never let someone’s opinion of me define me. They don’t control the pencil in my hand. There have been some bad circumstances in my life. When I was younger I lost two of my best friends to violence. But other people don’t have the last say-so. You have the last say-so. Always remember that.”
Feeling the passion behind the words Dawkins spoke was truly inspirational. He held the kids’ attention with his personal testimony.
“Surround yourself with the right people,” Dawkins continued. “Believe me when I say you are cared about. You always hear about how there are stars up there and you have to reach for them. Put your own star up there and reach for that. Don’t reach for the stars that are already up there. You put a star up there and say, ‘I want to be such-and-such.’ That’s your star, and then you reach for that. On a daily basis, you reach for THAT star. Decide along the way on the decisions that you have to make in order for that star to be reached, that goal to be achieved.”
Through his program, Dawkins generously blessed children in need with Christmas presents they would not have otherwise received. From Lego sets and books, to dolls, clothing and remote-control cars, the gifts brought smiles to their faces as they opened them before the party concluded. But they also left with a message of hope on their hearts, and a game plan for how to fulfill that hope.
“When you leave here,” Dawkins concluded, “make sure you have your star that you reach for. Don’t let anybody define you, and it’s not where you start, it’s where you end.”
Brian Dawkins and ProLink Sports would like to thank Mile High United Way for coordinating with Arapahoe County to arrange for this group of children to receive these blessings. The efforts of Mark Taylor, Director of Donor Relations for Mile High United Way, and Kippi Clausen, Director of Policy and Population Based Strategies, were instrumental in making this possible.
The Arapahoe-Jefferson Counties Collaborative Program for Foster Care and Adoption recruits, trains and supports foster and kinship families throughout the metro-Denver area to provide temporary care for children who cannot safely remain in their homes. They are always seeking individuals and couples in the community who can care for foster children until they can return home, be adopted or live independently.
There are presently more than 900 children in the foster care program in Arapahoe and Jefferson counties. To learn more about how you can help these children, visit http://www.collaborativefostercare.com/
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
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Friday, December 17, 2010
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Decker and Thomas Bring Holiday Cheer to Kids
The holiday spirit was alive and well on Monday night, Dec. 6, as Denver Broncos players Eric Decker and Demaryius Thomas helped 25 members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver enjoy the gift of giving. The rookie wide receivers gave their time and personal attention to the kids to help them purchase Christmas gifts for members of their family at SuperTarget in Lone Tree, Colo.The children were selected by the Boys & Girls Clubs for their outstanding participation in their after-school program. They had prepared detailed shopping lists of items to purchase, and were allowed a generous budget to find gifts to bring cheer to as many family members as possible this holiday season.
Lists in hand and smiles on their faces, the kids lined up their carts and set out with Decker, Thomas, volunteers and store associates to find just the right gifts for the special people in their lives.Decker and two young shoppers made their first stop in the toy department, looking over the array of Nerf guns and Lego sets, very popular for the boys on their lists. He helped the boys sort out which items fit together before it was time to move onto taking care of other family members.
Thomas and his troops covered a lot of ground throughout the store and assessed the scene before their carts began to fill up. First up was a plush, pink bathrobe and centerpiece with candles for mom, followed by a collection of Hot Wheels cars for a nephew.
“I’m happy that I can actually buy my family presents,” remarked one young shopper. “My Mom is going to be happy and my brother, he usually doesn’t get anything for Christmas from me. It’s just heartwarming…there’s no way to explain it.”Offensive lineman Zane Beadles joined his fellow rookie teammates on this night and shared his wisdom on everything from clothing to toys for the kids.
As the children reached their budget limit and made sure they had covered everyone on their list, they moved to the gift-wrapping stage. Decker, Thomas and Beadles also proved to be quite capable in that arena. They stayed until the last packages were wrapped and then bid farewell to their new friends and fellow shoppers.
Each was extremely generous with his time and helped make a special night even more meaningful for the children, who spoke of their appreciation.
“It’s really nice of them,” said one child. “They’re helping you and walking you all around the store, helping you find things for your family, just having fun.”
Several others spoke of the joy it gave them to be able to have gifts for the other members of their families, who often might not receive a gift at all. These are lasting impressions that will make an impact not only on the children, but on their new football-playing friends as well.The evening was made possible by a generous grant from Doug Morton and Marilyn Brown.
Special thanks to Sandi Loveland and the team at the SuperTarget store in Lone Tree, Colo., store for being such a terrific partner in this program.
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
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Friday, December 3, 2010
Denver Broncos Rookie WRs Eric Decker and Demaryius Thomas To Bring Cheer to Kids
MEDIA ADVISORY: Friday, Dec. 3, 2010
CONTACT: ProLink Sports
Paul Kirk, 303-929-4686 / pkirk@prolinksports.net
Judianne Atencio, 303-886-3950 / jatencio@prolinksports.net
DENVER BRONCOS WRs ERIC DECKER AND DEMARYIUS THOMAS LEND A HAND TO CHILDREN WITH HOLIDAY SHOPPING TRIP
Rookie wide receivers will be joined by teammates Monday, Dec. 6 to shop with children from Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver
WHO:
Denver Broncos wide receivers Eric Decker and Demaryius Thomas reach out to help children in their community by hosting a holiday shopping trip. They will be joined by a number of their teammates for this festive evening to bring cheer to children in need this holiday season.
WHAT:
Twenty-five children, ranging in age from 8 to 14, are being rewarded for their outstanding participation in their after-school program with a trip to buy holiday presents. They have been encouraged to write up their “Holiday Wish Lists” in preparation for this exciting evening. Each child will be given a budget to shop for gifts for other members of his or her family.
The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver is to inspire and enable young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.
WHEN:
Monday, December 6, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
WHERE:
SuperTarget – 10001 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO, 80124 (Yosemite & Lincoln, just west of I-25 & Lincoln).
**GREAT VISUALS; MEDIA WELCOME TO ATTEND**
# # #
CONTACT: ProLink Sports
Paul Kirk, 303-929-4686 / pkirk@prolinksports.net
Judianne Atencio, 303-886-3950 / jatencio@prolinksports.net
DENVER BRONCOS WRs ERIC DECKER AND DEMARYIUS THOMAS LEND A HAND TO CHILDREN WITH HOLIDAY SHOPPING TRIP
Rookie wide receivers will be joined by teammates Monday, Dec. 6 to shop with children from Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver
WHO:
Denver Broncos wide receivers Eric Decker and Demaryius Thomas reach out to help children in their community by hosting a holiday shopping trip. They will be joined by a number of their teammates for this festive evening to bring cheer to children in need this holiday season.
WHAT:
Twenty-five children, ranging in age from 8 to 14, are being rewarded for their outstanding participation in their after-school program with a trip to buy holiday presents. They have been encouraged to write up their “Holiday Wish Lists” in preparation for this exciting evening. Each child will be given a budget to shop for gifts for other members of his or her family.
The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver is to inspire and enable young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.
WHEN:
Monday, December 6, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
WHERE:
SuperTarget – 10001 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO, 80124 (Yosemite & Lincoln, just west of I-25 & Lincoln).
**GREAT VISUALS; MEDIA WELCOME TO ATTEND**
# # #
Brian Dawkins Continues Tradition of Giving
For the second year in a row, Denver Broncos All Pro safety Brian Dawkins teamed up with King Soopers and Meadow Gold Dairies to provide complete Thanksgiving dinners to families throughout Colorado served by The Salvation Army.
The meals were distributed through The Salvation Army to families in need in Denver, Fort Collins, Greeley, Colorado Springs, Pueblo and Grand Junction.
Dawkins understands the great need that exists for families to receive assistance in these tough economic times, and embraces his role as a leader who can improve the lives of people in his community. He reached out to partners King Soopers and Meadow Gold Dairies to ensure families the opportunity to gather in their own homes to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal.
“The Lord has blessed me and I know how important it is to give a hand up to our neighbors who may need it during these tough times,” said Dawkins. “I am grateful that the folks at King Soopers and Meadow Gold Dairies joined me in providing these meals, once again.”
“King Soopers is pleased to once again partner with Brian Dawkins, Meadow Gold and The Salvation Army to provide a Thanksgiving dinner to Colorado families in need,” said Kelli McGannon, King Soopers Marketing and Community Relations Director.
“We salute Brian’s leadership and we are proud to partner with him to support The Salvation Army’s great work in our communities,” said Scott Barnard, General Sales Manager, Meadow Gold Dairies.
“Thanksgiving is a time for family. We really appreciate this partnership in helping us to help others,” said Major Victor Doughty, Intermountain Divisional Commander. “This statewide initiative with our Corps will aid hundreds of families that have come to us for help this holiday season.”
The meals were distributed through The Salvation Army to families in need in Denver, Fort Collins, Greeley, Colorado Springs, Pueblo and Grand Junction.
Dawkins understands the great need that exists for families to receive assistance in these tough economic times, and embraces his role as a leader who can improve the lives of people in his community. He reached out to partners King Soopers and Meadow Gold Dairies to ensure families the opportunity to gather in their own homes to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal.“The Lord has blessed me and I know how important it is to give a hand up to our neighbors who may need it during these tough times,” said Dawkins. “I am grateful that the folks at King Soopers and Meadow Gold Dairies joined me in providing these meals, once again.”
“King Soopers is pleased to once again partner with Brian Dawkins, Meadow Gold and The Salvation Army to provide a Thanksgiving dinner to Colorado families in need,” said Kelli McGannon, King Soopers Marketing and Community Relations Director.“We salute Brian’s leadership and we are proud to partner with him to support The Salvation Army’s great work in our communities,” said Scott Barnard, General Sales Manager, Meadow Gold Dairies.
“Thanksgiving is a time for family. We really appreciate this partnership in helping us to help others,” said Major Victor Doughty, Intermountain Divisional Commander. “This statewide initiative with our Corps will aid hundreds of families that have come to us for help this holiday season.”
Monday, October 11, 2010
Paxton Serves Up Best Shot with Active Force Foundation Fundraiser
The Active Force Foundation is rapidly expanding its reach and impact in Colorado, a year-and-a-half after vice president Lonie Paxton’s signing with the Denver Broncos. After the success of April’s NFL Draft Party and Bowling Bash, AFF took another huge step forward on Sept. 28, 2010 with the inaugural Lonie Paxton Celebrity Sporting Clays Challenge at Kiowa Creek Sporting Club near Bennett, Colo.
Different from the usual golf events, it was Paxton’s vision to bring to Colorado a unique and different form of fundraiser that gave people the chance to come out and compete with one another on Kiowa Creek’s professionally-designed clays course. The day included a pre-event barbecue lunch, courtesy of Leevers Supermarkets, the 12-station clays competition, post-event awards ceremony, dinner courtesy of Angie’s Restaurant, and both silent and live auctions.Clear blue Colorado skies and a record temperature of 92 degrees greeted the nearly 120 participants in this inaugural event. For AFF’s first sporting clays event, those who signed up and came out to compete in the event came away incredibly impressed. The show put on by AFF and the effort by Paxton to welcome everyone and ensure they enjoyed their day made a tremendous impact.
Active Force Foundation president/founder Brook Duquesnel, mechanic/engineer Brandon Duquesnel and operations assistant Boyd Livesey were on hand to display AFF’s unique four-wheel mountain bikes, and “fly the flag” of the foundation to give participants a better idea of how their support of this event impacts the lives of disabled athletes through the foundation’s programs.
Paxton’s Denver Broncos teammates showed their support of AFF by coming out and shooting alongside the competitors, while waging their own battle for top score among the players. Quarterbacks Kyle Orton and Brady Quinn; offensive linemen Russ Hochstein, Zane Beadles and J.D. Walton; defensive tackle Justin Bannan and punter Britton Colquitt were joined by Denver Broncos VP of Security Dave Abrams on the course and showed there is a wide range of ability on that Broncos roster.
There’s no question Lonie Paxton is appreciated and respected in that Broncos locker room. He not only gets his teammates out to his events, but he designs fundraisers with competitions that appeal to his teammates. It’s worth noting that when Orton attended AFF’s Bowling Bash he brought his own ball, and Quinn arrived Tuesday at the sporting clays competition with his own shotgun. These guys are serious about making their support count!Our most special guests were the U.S. Army wounded warriors from the Warrior Transition Battalion at Fort Carson, Colo. It was our honor to have a group of soldiers attend the event and enjoy the company of so many who appreciate their valiant service to our country.
“When service men and women return from war or duty, AFF strives to create an experience that temporarily releases them from the constant mental and physical stresses they’re eduring,” Paxton said. “For AFF to have an impact on soldiers’ lives when they come back is the entire reason we do what we do. Our camps really show what the fundraising and our team can accomplish, but the events themselves are a way to involve teammates, the community, sponsors, servicemen and women, and the Active Force team in a fun environment that reiterates the purpose, but also have a fun time doing it.”
AFF’s programs are designed to give those wounded soldiers a physical outlet to enhance both their physical and mental recovery, and events like today’s allow us to expand that reach and show our appreciation by giving them a day out to enjoy a good time and some quality competition (please see below for comments by soldiers about how they enjoyed their time at the event).
The players’ and soldiers’ attendance added to what was already a festive atmosphere. Following the competition everybody gathered back at the main tent to listen to the Fabulous Parker Brothers Band, bid on the outstanding silent auction items and enjoy a delicious dinner provided by Angie’s Restaurant while they awaited the final scores to be tallied.
The team from Ultra Petroleum took home the top prize with a collective score of 339, followed by Bank of Colorado (266) and Sturgeon Electric (254). The Broncos competition was hotly contested, with Abrams scoring a 56, and among players Quinn led the way with a score of 51, narrowly edging Colquitt (48).
The event closed with an outstanding live auction, which included a cow elk hunt, dinner with Paxton & Bannan at The Union restaurant, a suite at the Pepsi Center for a Denver Nuggets game and a “Broncos Experience” including tickets, and pre- and postgame passes.
ProLink Sports would like to thank all those who came together to make this event happen, including Kiowa Creek Sporting Club and their phenomenal staff for providing a first-class venue for this inaugural event. We would also like to thank Keith Dailey & Jim Mundle of Douglas County Living magazine; James Kelly and Red Bull; our MC Sam Adams; Leevers Supermarkets, Angie’s Restaurant and event sponsors Steve Evans and the Elk Ranch, Fred Aesquival, Bank of Colorado, The E Company, Billy Halax, Innovative Interiors, Intermountain Rural Electric Association, Phil Long Ford, Retirement Strategies, Speed Raceway, StarTek, Sturgeon Electric, Ultra Petroleum and Water Extraction Team.
It was an honor to have the soldiers from the WTU at Fort Carson as Active Force Foundation's guests at the event, and an additional honor to receive such kind comments afterwards:
"Today I was like anyone else. I was part of society. I wasn't an Army misfit. I had the freedom to do things here today just like everyone else. My mind was totally off what's going on in my life. I wasn't thinking about the pain. I wasn't thinking about the next doctor's appointment. I was back to being a person. Not a WT.”
"I know it's going to hurt. But some things are just worth it. Today was one of those days. I probably won't be able to walk tomorrow, but for today, I enjoyed it and it was worth it."
Links to media coverage of the event:
Denver Post (Wed., Sept. 29, 2010) "Broncos' Paxton takes best shot at helping disabled"
DenverBroncos.com (Fri., Oct. 1, 2010) "Paxton's Sporting Clays Challenge for a Cause"
CBS4 Denver, Countdown to Kickoff (Sun., Oct. 3, 2010) "Get to Know: Broncos' Paxton and Active Force Foundation"
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
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Saturday, September 18, 2010
"Savor the Grape 2010" Just Two Days Away
The visibility of high-profile athletes always lends star power to charitable fundraising events.
When those high-profile athletes are raising money for a well-known entity in the name of a teammate who was gunned down by gang violence, the combination touches everybody in an emotional and powerful way.
Denver Broncos all-pro cornerback Champ Bailey and retired all-pro safety John Lynch, now an NFL game analyst for FOX, were teammates with Darrent Williams in 2005-06 after the young Oklahoma State product was drafted by the Denver Broncos. Williams became a starter at cornerback in his rookie season, and made enough big plays to serve notice he had a bright future ahead of him on the gridiron.
Williams also made an impact on teammates with his perpetually positive attitude, permanent smile and his patented phrase "All Ready," which personified his eagerness to give his all in any situation--practice, games, you name it, he was ready.
When that bright future was snuffed out by a gangster's bullet in the early hours of New Year's Day 2007 in downtown Denver, it stunned the Denver community and the Broncos family, and left a void they knew they would never fill. As media relations director for that Broncos team, I can affirm that Darrent Williams was special. I had the good fortune to work with a great collection of first-class guys and team players in my 13 years with the team, and "D-Will" was unique in his ability to pick guys up with that extra spark he provided. Small in stature but big in spirit, he played the game with confidence, desire and talent that overcame his measurables.
Three-plus years after Darrent's death, some measure of closure was achieved with the March 2010 trial and conviction of Willie Clark. Nothing will bring Darrent back, but I can still remember in those solemn, painful days after the murder, the biggest questions on players' minds were "do they have any leads," and "do they have a suspect." Finally, justice was served.
Against that backdrop, Bailey and Lynch were steadfast in their desire to "get back to talking about how Darrent lived, not how he died." The 2010 Savor the Grape fundraiser was the product of that desire, and they both were certain--as they were for the first such event in 2008--that raising money for Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver was the right way to honor their friend and former teammate. Providing a positive place for kids was the way to work to prevent the very type of gang violence that claimed their friend's life.
Particular meaningful was the fact that Darrent grew up attending Boys & Girls Clubs in Fort Worth, Texas, and was a regular visitor to mentor kids at three different branches of the Clubs in metro Denver: Owens, Johnson and the Denver Broncos branch. In addition, Lynch was a participant in Boys & Girls Clubs programs in the San Diego area in his youth.
This is a cause and an event that is special not only to those players who were fortunate to be teammates of Darrent Williams, but Broncos players past and present. From those 2005-06 teams, Rod Smith, Al Wilson, Ebenezer Ekuban and Charlie Adams are among those expected to attend Monday night's event. A number of current players, as well as some from previous Broncos teams--Alfred Williams and Mark Schlereth--are expected to attend.
Far and away the most special guest of the night will be Darrent's mother, Rosalind Williams, who we are honored to have attend, as we were in 2008.
The event will feature live and silent auctions with a wide array of special sports memorabilia, including some one-of-a-kind auction items and experiences from the Colorado Avalanche, Denver Broncos, Denver Nuggets and Colorado Rockies.
More than anything, this event is the living example of Darrent Williams' friends and teammates staying true to the vow they made in those dark days of early 2007 to make sure Darrent Williams' name is not forgotten, and to make an impact on children in his name.
This story is bigger than a sports story, but it's a positive sports story in 2010 that fans, media and the community should embrace to restore their faith in professional athletes amidst the litany of negative stories we are bombarded with each day.
Here's a big salute to Champ Bailey, John Lynch, their teammates who support their effort, and the community that has supported this event through their sponsorships and tickets purchased.
The stage is set, the stars are aligned. Now it's time to get back to celebrating the way Darrent lived, not how he died. Bring a smile to someone's face today in his honor.
Here are some links to recent media stories about the event:
Sept. 17, 2010--9News 6 a.m.: Champ Bailey Remembers Darrent Williams
Sept. 16, 2010--Champ Bailey on FM 104.3 The Fan w/Alfred Williams, Mark Schlereth & D-Mac
Sept. 15, 2010--Denver Post column by Dave Krieger
Below is an assortment of recent quotes from Champ Bailey & John Lynch illustrating why this cause and this event are so meaningful to them:
JOHN LYNCH, 9/15/10, courtesy of 87.7 FM The Ticket with Vic Lombardi & Gary Miller:
"It's only right to continue to do something that we all vowed to do when our good friend passed away, and that’s to remember his life."
"People who knew Darrent Williams know he cared a lot about this community. He spent a lot of time at the Boys & Girls Club. Now, down at the Broncos Boys & Girls Club there’s a teen center in his name."
"We lost a good friend and teammate, Darrent Williams, but we can do something positive in his memory, and that’s to help these kids have a positive place. We want to carry on what he started and keep that message alive."
CHAMP BAILEY, 9/17/10, courtesy of 9News:
"At this point, I still can't believe it happened (Darrent's death). It's pretty simple: We had a guy here, Darrent Williams, that we all kind of fell in love with as far as what he did for us and the type of person he was, and to lose him like that at a young age, it's real senseless."
"Darrent was really involved in the Boys & Girls Club, so this is kind of a way of honoring his name, keeping his name and memory alive and making people realize that we can make a difference (helping) these young kids and teenagers."
(regarding the March 2010 trial of Willie Clark, and his conviction)
"That was probably the toughest part of it, because you're looking at another young kid who did what he did. And now, going forward, it's like, 'How can we prevent that? How can we prevent kids from being like the way this guys is.' Definitely justice was served by getting the conviction but we can't bring D-Will back, so obviously the best thing for us to do is try to build better characters in the community."
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
Follow us on Twitter
"Like" us on Facebook
When those high-profile athletes are raising money for a well-known entity in the name of a teammate who was gunned down by gang violence, the combination touches everybody in an emotional and powerful way.
Denver Broncos all-pro cornerback Champ Bailey and retired all-pro safety John Lynch, now an NFL game analyst for FOX, were teammates with Darrent Williams in 2005-06 after the young Oklahoma State product was drafted by the Denver Broncos. Williams became a starter at cornerback in his rookie season, and made enough big plays to serve notice he had a bright future ahead of him on the gridiron.
Williams also made an impact on teammates with his perpetually positive attitude, permanent smile and his patented phrase "All Ready," which personified his eagerness to give his all in any situation--practice, games, you name it, he was ready.
When that bright future was snuffed out by a gangster's bullet in the early hours of New Year's Day 2007 in downtown Denver, it stunned the Denver community and the Broncos family, and left a void they knew they would never fill. As media relations director for that Broncos team, I can affirm that Darrent Williams was special. I had the good fortune to work with a great collection of first-class guys and team players in my 13 years with the team, and "D-Will" was unique in his ability to pick guys up with that extra spark he provided. Small in stature but big in spirit, he played the game with confidence, desire and talent that overcame his measurables.
Three-plus years after Darrent's death, some measure of closure was achieved with the March 2010 trial and conviction of Willie Clark. Nothing will bring Darrent back, but I can still remember in those solemn, painful days after the murder, the biggest questions on players' minds were "do they have any leads," and "do they have a suspect." Finally, justice was served.
Against that backdrop, Bailey and Lynch were steadfast in their desire to "get back to talking about how Darrent lived, not how he died." The 2010 Savor the Grape fundraiser was the product of that desire, and they both were certain--as they were for the first such event in 2008--that raising money for Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver was the right way to honor their friend and former teammate. Providing a positive place for kids was the way to work to prevent the very type of gang violence that claimed their friend's life.
Particular meaningful was the fact that Darrent grew up attending Boys & Girls Clubs in Fort Worth, Texas, and was a regular visitor to mentor kids at three different branches of the Clubs in metro Denver: Owens, Johnson and the Denver Broncos branch. In addition, Lynch was a participant in Boys & Girls Clubs programs in the San Diego area in his youth.
This is a cause and an event that is special not only to those players who were fortunate to be teammates of Darrent Williams, but Broncos players past and present. From those 2005-06 teams, Rod Smith, Al Wilson, Ebenezer Ekuban and Charlie Adams are among those expected to attend Monday night's event. A number of current players, as well as some from previous Broncos teams--Alfred Williams and Mark Schlereth--are expected to attend.
Far and away the most special guest of the night will be Darrent's mother, Rosalind Williams, who we are honored to have attend, as we were in 2008.
The event will feature live and silent auctions with a wide array of special sports memorabilia, including some one-of-a-kind auction items and experiences from the Colorado Avalanche, Denver Broncos, Denver Nuggets and Colorado Rockies.
More than anything, this event is the living example of Darrent Williams' friends and teammates staying true to the vow they made in those dark days of early 2007 to make sure Darrent Williams' name is not forgotten, and to make an impact on children in his name.
This story is bigger than a sports story, but it's a positive sports story in 2010 that fans, media and the community should embrace to restore their faith in professional athletes amidst the litany of negative stories we are bombarded with each day.
Here's a big salute to Champ Bailey, John Lynch, their teammates who support their effort, and the community that has supported this event through their sponsorships and tickets purchased.
The stage is set, the stars are aligned. Now it's time to get back to celebrating the way Darrent lived, not how he died. Bring a smile to someone's face today in his honor.
Here are some links to recent media stories about the event:
Sept. 17, 2010--9News 6 a.m.: Champ Bailey Remembers Darrent Williams
Sept. 16, 2010--Champ Bailey on FM 104.3 The Fan w/Alfred Williams, Mark Schlereth & D-Mac
Sept. 15, 2010--Denver Post column by Dave Krieger
Below is an assortment of recent quotes from Champ Bailey & John Lynch illustrating why this cause and this event are so meaningful to them:
JOHN LYNCH, 9/15/10, courtesy of 87.7 FM The Ticket with Vic Lombardi & Gary Miller:
"It's only right to continue to do something that we all vowed to do when our good friend passed away, and that’s to remember his life."
"People who knew Darrent Williams know he cared a lot about this community. He spent a lot of time at the Boys & Girls Club. Now, down at the Broncos Boys & Girls Club there’s a teen center in his name."
"We lost a good friend and teammate, Darrent Williams, but we can do something positive in his memory, and that’s to help these kids have a positive place. We want to carry on what he started and keep that message alive."
CHAMP BAILEY, 9/17/10, courtesy of 9News:
"At this point, I still can't believe it happened (Darrent's death). It's pretty simple: We had a guy here, Darrent Williams, that we all kind of fell in love with as far as what he did for us and the type of person he was, and to lose him like that at a young age, it's real senseless."
"Darrent was really involved in the Boys & Girls Club, so this is kind of a way of honoring his name, keeping his name and memory alive and making people realize that we can make a difference (helping) these young kids and teenagers."
(regarding the March 2010 trial of Willie Clark, and his conviction)
"That was probably the toughest part of it, because you're looking at another young kid who did what he did. And now, going forward, it's like, 'How can we prevent that? How can we prevent kids from being like the way this guys is.' Definitely justice was served by getting the conviction but we can't bring D-Will back, so obviously the best thing for us to do is try to build better characters in the community."
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
Follow us on Twitter
"Like" us on Facebook
Thursday, August 5, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, Aug. 5, 2010
CONTACT—ProLink Sports
Paul Kirk, 303-929-4686 / pkirk@prolinksports.net
“TUESDAYS WITH EDDIE MAC” RETURNS ON 87.7 FM “THE TICKET”
Former Denver Bronco Back for Second Year of Popular Show Sponsored by Red Robin Gourmet Burgers
DENVER—Former Denver Broncos great Ed McCaffrey returns to the Denver airwaves on Tuesday, Aug. 17 for the second year of his popular show “Tuesdays with Eddie Mac” sponsored by Red Robin Gourmet Burgers.
McCaffrey’s show will air each Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. on 87.7 FM “The Ticket” on the Vic and Gary show, co-hosted by Vic Lombardi and Gary Miller of CBS4 Sports. The trio will break down all the action in the NFL and with the hometown Denver Broncos, and provide fans Ed’s unique take from the players’ perspective.
McCaffrey was widely respected for his toughness and team-first attitude throughout his 13-year NFL career, as well as his ability to dissect for fans what they are seeing on the field and articulate the story behind it.
A fan favorite during his nine seasons in Denver (1995-2003), McCaffrey has maintained an active presence in the Colorado community as company pitchman, corporate and event speaker and host of The Ed McCaffrey Football Camps. He remains extremely popular with the region’s sports fans and has continued to support the community through The McCaffrey Family Foundation.
“Vic and Gary” airs Monday through Friday from 7-9 a.m. on 87.7 “The Ticket” and features two of the most recognizable authorities on sports in Colorado. CBS4’s Lombardi and Miller have earned the respect of players, coaches, fans and fellow members of the media for their straightforward, intelligent and entertaining approach to their reporting and commentary.
Ed McCaffrey is represented by ProLink Sports, LLC, a full-service athlete representation firm specializing in image management, public relations, community outreach, media training and media placement for professional athletes.
# # #
About Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (NASDAQ: RRGB): Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (www.redrobin.com), a casual dining restaurant chain founded in 1969 that operates through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Red Robin International, Inc., has been serving up wholesome, fun dining experiences in a family-friendly environment for more than 40 years. Red Robin, the “Smiling Burger®” expert, is famous for serving more than two dozen high-quality, Honest to Goodness® gourmet burgers with Bottomless Steak Fries®, as well as a wide variety of salads, sandwiches, wraps, soups, appetizers, entrees and signature Bottomless Beverages™. There are more than 430 Red Robin® restaurants located across the United States and Canada, including corporate-owned locations and those operating under franchise agreements. Red Robin… YUMMM™!
About 87.7 The Ticket: 87.7 FM “The Ticket” is Denver’s “Live and Local” sports talk radio station. Award-winning CBS4 television sports personalities Vic Lombardi and Gary Miller present “Vic and Gary” each weekday morning from 7-9 a.m. The lineup also includes Chad Andrus & Patrick Watkins (9 a.m.-Noon), Charles Johnson & Joel Klatt (Noon-3 p.m.), Les Shapiro, G-Man & JoJo (3-7 p.m.) and Nate Kreckman (7-10 p.m.).
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
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Thursday, Aug. 5, 2010
CONTACT—ProLink Sports
Paul Kirk, 303-929-4686 / pkirk@prolinksports.net
“TUESDAYS WITH EDDIE MAC” RETURNS ON 87.7 FM “THE TICKET”
Former Denver Bronco Back for Second Year of Popular Show Sponsored by Red Robin Gourmet Burgers
DENVER—Former Denver Broncos great Ed McCaffrey returns to the Denver airwaves on Tuesday, Aug. 17 for the second year of his popular show “Tuesdays with Eddie Mac” sponsored by Red Robin Gourmet Burgers.
McCaffrey’s show will air each Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. on 87.7 FM “The Ticket” on the Vic and Gary show, co-hosted by Vic Lombardi and Gary Miller of CBS4 Sports. The trio will break down all the action in the NFL and with the hometown Denver Broncos, and provide fans Ed’s unique take from the players’ perspective.
McCaffrey was widely respected for his toughness and team-first attitude throughout his 13-year NFL career, as well as his ability to dissect for fans what they are seeing on the field and articulate the story behind it.
A fan favorite during his nine seasons in Denver (1995-2003), McCaffrey has maintained an active presence in the Colorado community as company pitchman, corporate and event speaker and host of The Ed McCaffrey Football Camps. He remains extremely popular with the region’s sports fans and has continued to support the community through The McCaffrey Family Foundation.
“Vic and Gary” airs Monday through Friday from 7-9 a.m. on 87.7 “The Ticket” and features two of the most recognizable authorities on sports in Colorado. CBS4’s Lombardi and Miller have earned the respect of players, coaches, fans and fellow members of the media for their straightforward, intelligent and entertaining approach to their reporting and commentary.
Ed McCaffrey is represented by ProLink Sports, LLC, a full-service athlete representation firm specializing in image management, public relations, community outreach, media training and media placement for professional athletes.
# # #
About Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (NASDAQ: RRGB): Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (www.redrobin.com), a casual dining restaurant chain founded in 1969 that operates through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Red Robin International, Inc., has been serving up wholesome, fun dining experiences in a family-friendly environment for more than 40 years. Red Robin, the “Smiling Burger®” expert, is famous for serving more than two dozen high-quality, Honest to Goodness® gourmet burgers with Bottomless Steak Fries®, as well as a wide variety of salads, sandwiches, wraps, soups, appetizers, entrees and signature Bottomless Beverages™. There are more than 430 Red Robin® restaurants located across the United States and Canada, including corporate-owned locations and those operating under franchise agreements. Red Robin… YUMMM™!
About 87.7 The Ticket: 87.7 FM “The Ticket” is Denver’s “Live and Local” sports talk radio station. Award-winning CBS4 television sports personalities Vic Lombardi and Gary Miller present “Vic and Gary” each weekday morning from 7-9 a.m. The lineup also includes Chad Andrus & Patrick Watkins (9 a.m.-Noon), Charles Johnson & Joel Klatt (Noon-3 p.m.), Les Shapiro, G-Man & JoJo (3-7 p.m.) and Nate Kreckman (7-10 p.m.).
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
Follow us on Twitter
"Like" us on Facebook
Monday, July 19, 2010
Colorado Springs Gazette Drops Broncos Beat
The decision by The Gazette of Colorado Springs last week to stop covering the Denver Broncos with a dedicated beat reporter has caused a stir not only in Colorado sports media circles, but also among NFL reporters in other cities.
It is a tribute to the respect within the industry for the Gazette's (now former) Broncos beat reporter Frank Schwab. It is also a reaction to the curious decision made by a newspaper that while not originating in Denver proper, does represent a large community in the Broncos "secondary market," where there is a strong Denver Broncos fan-base and a large number of season-ticket holders.
Schwab, who did an outstanding job and consistently got better during his seven years on the beat, will now cover the Air Force Falcons. Air Force football is huge in its home city of Colorado Springs, so putting Schwab on that beat is a wise move journalistically. The team deserves great local coverage and Schwab will provide that.
Schwab also gets a gift in the form of a reunion with Falcons head coach Troy Calhoun--not only an extremely talented and successful coach, but a true gentleman and first-class guy. I had the pleasure of working with Coach Calhoun when he was on the Broncos staff (2003-05) and have enjoyed seeing his ascension from quality-control coach to coordinator to collegiate head coach. A true example of good things happening to good people.
The timing of the Gazette's decision to drop the Broncos beat is odd too, because Schwab had gained even more of a foothold on the Broncos beat with last year's shuttering of the Rocky Mountain News and the relationships he had established through his longevity in that spot. Competing against the Denver Post and Rocky Mountain News was not always easy, but Schwab made his mark and made those papers' coverage better in the process.
Schwab was also the most active reporter I've seen engaging readers/fans on Twitter. He worked hard to inform them and generate debate, but always maintained an even keel, took criticism in stride and never made it personal. Those who followed him as @fs3142 can now do so as @GazetteAirForce.
What remains to be seen is whether the Gazette experiences any drop-off in readership by replacing beat reporting on the most popular sports team in the region with what will presumably be a mix of AP stories and Gazette columns. The assumption is that the paper believes the work of its fine columnist David Ramsey will provide the personalized local touch on the Broncos beat.
Viewed through that lens, it could prove to be a financially savvy way for a newspaper to confront the economic challenges of its business by deploying its best people in places where they can make the most impact, while trusting they won't experience a drop-off in the process. But it does seem like a questionable decision given the immense popularity of the Denver Broncos in the state of Colorado and beyond. My suspicion is that it is a gamble on the habits of readers, not a statement that they believe that popularity has waned.
Time will tell, but what is certain is that it is time to salute Frank for his excellent work on the Broncos beat, and for being a true professional to work with (except when he kept my VHS copy of Super Bowl XXXII for more than a year for a piece he was researching; he did return it in proper working condition, though maybe not rewound). He appears to be the last in a line of outstanding reporters with whom I enjoyed working in that role, preceded by Kamon Simpson, John Branch, the late Jim Lassiter and Mike Burrows since 1995.
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
Follow us on Twitter
"Like" us on Facebook
It is a tribute to the respect within the industry for the Gazette's (now former) Broncos beat reporter Frank Schwab. It is also a reaction to the curious decision made by a newspaper that while not originating in Denver proper, does represent a large community in the Broncos "secondary market," where there is a strong Denver Broncos fan-base and a large number of season-ticket holders.
Schwab, who did an outstanding job and consistently got better during his seven years on the beat, will now cover the Air Force Falcons. Air Force football is huge in its home city of Colorado Springs, so putting Schwab on that beat is a wise move journalistically. The team deserves great local coverage and Schwab will provide that.
Schwab also gets a gift in the form of a reunion with Falcons head coach Troy Calhoun--not only an extremely talented and successful coach, but a true gentleman and first-class guy. I had the pleasure of working with Coach Calhoun when he was on the Broncos staff (2003-05) and have enjoyed seeing his ascension from quality-control coach to coordinator to collegiate head coach. A true example of good things happening to good people.
The timing of the Gazette's decision to drop the Broncos beat is odd too, because Schwab had gained even more of a foothold on the Broncos beat with last year's shuttering of the Rocky Mountain News and the relationships he had established through his longevity in that spot. Competing against the Denver Post and Rocky Mountain News was not always easy, but Schwab made his mark and made those papers' coverage better in the process.
Schwab was also the most active reporter I've seen engaging readers/fans on Twitter. He worked hard to inform them and generate debate, but always maintained an even keel, took criticism in stride and never made it personal. Those who followed him as @fs3142 can now do so as @GazetteAirForce.
What remains to be seen is whether the Gazette experiences any drop-off in readership by replacing beat reporting on the most popular sports team in the region with what will presumably be a mix of AP stories and Gazette columns. The assumption is that the paper believes the work of its fine columnist David Ramsey will provide the personalized local touch on the Broncos beat.
Viewed through that lens, it could prove to be a financially savvy way for a newspaper to confront the economic challenges of its business by deploying its best people in places where they can make the most impact, while trusting they won't experience a drop-off in the process. But it does seem like a questionable decision given the immense popularity of the Denver Broncos in the state of Colorado and beyond. My suspicion is that it is a gamble on the habits of readers, not a statement that they believe that popularity has waned.
Time will tell, but what is certain is that it is time to salute Frank for his excellent work on the Broncos beat, and for being a true professional to work with (except when he kept my VHS copy of Super Bowl XXXII for more than a year for a piece he was researching; he did return it in proper working condition, though maybe not rewound). He appears to be the last in a line of outstanding reporters with whom I enjoyed working in that role, preceded by Kamon Simpson, John Branch, the late Jim Lassiter and Mike Burrows since 1995.
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
Follow us on Twitter
"Like" us on Facebook
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Lonie Paxton's Celebrity Sporting Clays Challenge Set For Sept. 28, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
CONTACTS:
Paul Kirk, ProLink Sports: (303) 929-4686 / pkirk@prolinksports.net
Judianne Atencio, ProLink Sports: (303) 886-3950 / jatencio@prolinksports.net
LONIE PAXTON’S CELEBRITY SPORTING CLAYS CHALLENGE SET FOR SEPT. 28, 2010
Event Features NFL Stars Teaming Up to Support Active Force Foundation
DENVER—The First Annual Lonie Paxton Celebrity Sporting Clays Challenge is coming to Colorado Tuesday, Sept. 28, 2010. Join Denver Broncos long-snapper Lonie Paxton and a number of his teammates and sports figures for this one-of-a-kind event at the Kiowa Creek Sporting Club in Bennett, Colo. (46700 E. County Rd. 30).
This event benefits Paxton’s Active Force Foundation and its mission to provide opportunity for physically challenged individuals to engage in a healthy lifestyle through sports experience and education. Active Force Foundation provides camps for disabled athletes to experience the unique four-wheel mountain bikes they have designed and built.
“I’m excited to have an event of this kind in Colorado,” Paxton said. “The people here have been terrific in supporting Active Force Foundation, and we’re looking to build up our programs to reach even more disabled athletes and give them outdoor experiences they’ve never had before.”
The 2010 Celebrity Sporting Clays Challenge is an event you don’t want to miss. Participants enjoy the opportunity to test their skills on Kiowa Creek’s professionally designed sporting clays course. You don’t need to be an expert marksman—this event caters to all experience levels, even those who have never shot before. Lunch and dinner are provided, as well as entertainment and a special opportunity to mingle with some of Colorado’s most recognizable athletes.
“Come out and enjoy a great time with my teammates and me in support of a great cause,” Paxton said. If you’ve never shot before, don’t let that stop you. There’s something for everyone, and you might just like shooting clays more than you expected.”
Sponsorship and ticket information are available by visiting www.prolinksports.net or calling Judianne Atencio of ProLink Sports at (303) 886-3950. There are several levels of sponsorship packages available, and they can be tailored to meet a company or organization’s unique interests.
To learn more about Active Force Foundation please visit www.activeforcefoundation.org.
# # #
ABOUT ACTIVE FORCE FOUNDATION
NFL player Lonie Paxton launched Active Force Foundation in 2003. Its mission is to implement its downhill four-wheel mountain bikes into adaptive sports camps and programs throughout the world in order to better serve the disabled sports community. Paxton is in his second year with the Denver Broncos in 2010 after playing eight years with the New England Patriots, where he won three Super Bowls.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
CONTACTS:
Paul Kirk, ProLink Sports: (303) 929-4686 / pkirk@prolinksports.net
Judianne Atencio, ProLink Sports: (303) 886-3950 / jatencio@prolinksports.net
LONIE PAXTON’S CELEBRITY SPORTING CLAYS CHALLENGE SET FOR SEPT. 28, 2010
Event Features NFL Stars Teaming Up to Support Active Force Foundation
DENVER—The First Annual Lonie Paxton Celebrity Sporting Clays Challenge is coming to Colorado Tuesday, Sept. 28, 2010. Join Denver Broncos long-snapper Lonie Paxton and a number of his teammates and sports figures for this one-of-a-kind event at the Kiowa Creek Sporting Club in Bennett, Colo. (46700 E. County Rd. 30).
This event benefits Paxton’s Active Force Foundation and its mission to provide opportunity for physically challenged individuals to engage in a healthy lifestyle through sports experience and education. Active Force Foundation provides camps for disabled athletes to experience the unique four-wheel mountain bikes they have designed and built.
“I’m excited to have an event of this kind in Colorado,” Paxton said. “The people here have been terrific in supporting Active Force Foundation, and we’re looking to build up our programs to reach even more disabled athletes and give them outdoor experiences they’ve never had before.”
The 2010 Celebrity Sporting Clays Challenge is an event you don’t want to miss. Participants enjoy the opportunity to test their skills on Kiowa Creek’s professionally designed sporting clays course. You don’t need to be an expert marksman—this event caters to all experience levels, even those who have never shot before. Lunch and dinner are provided, as well as entertainment and a special opportunity to mingle with some of Colorado’s most recognizable athletes.
“Come out and enjoy a great time with my teammates and me in support of a great cause,” Paxton said. If you’ve never shot before, don’t let that stop you. There’s something for everyone, and you might just like shooting clays more than you expected.”
Sponsorship and ticket information are available by visiting www.prolinksports.net or calling Judianne Atencio of ProLink Sports at (303) 886-3950. There are several levels of sponsorship packages available, and they can be tailored to meet a company or organization’s unique interests.
To learn more about Active Force Foundation please visit www.activeforcefoundation.org.
# # #
ABOUT ACTIVE FORCE FOUNDATION
NFL player Lonie Paxton launched Active Force Foundation in 2003. Its mission is to implement its downhill four-wheel mountain bikes into adaptive sports camps and programs throughout the world in order to better serve the disabled sports community. Paxton is in his second year with the Denver Broncos in 2010 after playing eight years with the New England Patriots, where he won three Super Bowls.
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
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Friday, July 9, 2010
On LeBron James, ESPN--and Dan Gilbert
Much criticism has been lobbed toward LeBron James and ESPN in the wake of last night’s one-hour “Decision” special to reveal which NBA team James would choose in free agency.
Much of it has been deserved, but when you analyze the motives and the desired outcomes of each, I think ESPN probably deserves the least, James a moderate amount, and a late entry into the spectacle, Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert, probably the most. He may have been late to the party but he made his presence felt in spectacular fashion.
ESPN and James achieved what most brands ultimately want: Everybody is talking about them.
Overall, it was a good business decision by ESPN to participate. Above all, ESPN is in the entertainment business and the goal is to attract viewers. That they did, with a 7.3 rating according to early Nielsen overnight figures.
Journalistically, however, ESPN created an awkward situation for its NBA reporters and analysts by creating a special for James to announce his decision. Even if no actual edict was issued to them to preserve the suspense for the show, they created the appearance of a compromise among most logical folks who were certain ESPN reporters would not scoop an ESPN special.
While that concern is valid, it’s debatable whether the perception of journalistic compromise by a TV network even matters to anybody besides those in the industry. It is viewers that ESPN cares about, and the perception of a such compromise is unlikely to hurt viewership to any degree.
James has been called everything from narcissistic to an out-of-control egomaniac for dragging out his decision and then choosing to place even more attention on himself with the special. Understandably so.
I don’t fault him for exercising his right to play anywhere he wants. It is the manner in which he went about it that did the most damage to his image. Choosing to deliver a figurative punch to the solar plexus of long-suffering Cleveland sports fans on national television was a choice that lacked sensitivity and heart.
It was evident in James body language and facial expressions that he felt as much pain for leaving his home and fans behind as he felt excitement for going to Miami. There was a somber tone to the whole debacle. So why did he choose this method to make his announcement?
Some have said he deserves praise, not criticism, because he used the opportunity to provide funding and awareness for Boys & Girls Clubs of America. That’s nice, but then why wasn’t there any mention of that dynamic or the specifics involved with it in the special? Unless I missed it, James was simply sitting in a Boys & Girls Club branch in Greenwich, CT, with kids around him, who in the end were more out-of-place props than named beneficiaries of James’ self-indulgence.
If James wanted to be sensitive to those in his home state he could have orchestrated this much differently. Once he made a decision, he simply could have planned the signing and press conference with his new team and then called the Cavaliers (and his other suitors) to deliver the news personally. The press conference takes place in Miami, giving time for Cleveland media to travel there, allowing opportunity for Cavaliers fans to hear his answers to questions being asked by their hometown media.
While I think it would have been a nice story for James to stay in Cleveland, I’ve seen enough in professional sports to lose most notions of idealism I had while following sports growing up. But I don’t believe James deserves, as some have said, to be the “most hated man in the NBA.” Outside of Cleveland, what beef do other NBA fans and sports fans in general have with James choosing after seven years in Cleveland to sign a free-agent contract to play elsewhere?
I defend those Cleveland fans because as a Seattle native I felt the pain of watching both Ken Griffey, Jr., and Alex Rodriguez bolt from the Emerald City. Neither was even a true hometown hero, though we felt like they were, having seen each grow from 18-year-old signees to major superstars. Griffey’s departure was easier to take because he actually went home with his move to the Cincinnati Reds. Rodriguez is another story. At least I can understand the vitriol that accompanies the feelings of betrayal when a long-time star leaves a city by his own choice.
Surprisingly, the one deserving the most criticism for his actions relative to his role and the expectations that go with it, is Gilbert. His unhinged written rant—in the font Comic Sans, no less—came out of nowhere just as the aftermath of this spectacle was winding down, and AFTER the Cavaliers organization had issued a very professional, well-reasoned statement to the media.
It is understandable Gilbert would feel betrayed and want to rally his team’s fans when things seem to crumbling around them. That’s what leaders do. But his approach was so bizarre for a team owner that it probably did him more harm than good.
Sure, it’s refreshing for media and fans to receive such candor from an owner of a professional sports franchise. And for his part, while Gilbert wants to win, he also wants to sell as many tickets and cash in on as much devotion as possible from the team’s fans and potential fans.
A big part of that, however, is built on signing players to deliver those wins and championships he’s promising, and if there’s one thing professional athletes are most loyal to—besides themselves and their families—it is their fellow players. After witnessing Gilbert’s epic blast at James’ back as he walks out the door, what player is motivated to come play for him? And it is those players who will determine whether the Cavaliers win even that first championship Gilbert is promising his fans.
Among PR directors’ worst nightmares is dealing with an owner or executive who is ruled by his emotions when speaking publicly (perhaps only topped by working with one who comes in the next day—or calls at 5 a.m.—with complaints about the negative stories you’ve allowed to be printed, or failed to prevent).
Either way, this whole LeBron James free-agent spectacle has given sports fans and media much to talk about during one of the slowest sports periods on the calendar (and don’t tell me about the World Cup, because while it’s huge globally, most sports fans in the United States truly don’t care beyond hoping the USA wins).
For all the criticism lobbed in his direction, LeBron James will be fine. He will make boat-loads of money, live in a great city and win a lot of games. He could have handled the whole process with a greater degree of humility, but his overall brand will not suffer, and clearly that is what is most important to him.
Those championships, however, will not come easily, no matter how much talent is around him.
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
Follow us on Twitter
Become a Fan on Facebook
Much of it has been deserved, but when you analyze the motives and the desired outcomes of each, I think ESPN probably deserves the least, James a moderate amount, and a late entry into the spectacle, Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert, probably the most. He may have been late to the party but he made his presence felt in spectacular fashion.
ESPN and James achieved what most brands ultimately want: Everybody is talking about them.
Overall, it was a good business decision by ESPN to participate. Above all, ESPN is in the entertainment business and the goal is to attract viewers. That they did, with a 7.3 rating according to early Nielsen overnight figures.
Journalistically, however, ESPN created an awkward situation for its NBA reporters and analysts by creating a special for James to announce his decision. Even if no actual edict was issued to them to preserve the suspense for the show, they created the appearance of a compromise among most logical folks who were certain ESPN reporters would not scoop an ESPN special.
While that concern is valid, it’s debatable whether the perception of journalistic compromise by a TV network even matters to anybody besides those in the industry. It is viewers that ESPN cares about, and the perception of a such compromise is unlikely to hurt viewership to any degree.
James has been called everything from narcissistic to an out-of-control egomaniac for dragging out his decision and then choosing to place even more attention on himself with the special. Understandably so.
I don’t fault him for exercising his right to play anywhere he wants. It is the manner in which he went about it that did the most damage to his image. Choosing to deliver a figurative punch to the solar plexus of long-suffering Cleveland sports fans on national television was a choice that lacked sensitivity and heart.
It was evident in James body language and facial expressions that he felt as much pain for leaving his home and fans behind as he felt excitement for going to Miami. There was a somber tone to the whole debacle. So why did he choose this method to make his announcement?
Some have said he deserves praise, not criticism, because he used the opportunity to provide funding and awareness for Boys & Girls Clubs of America. That’s nice, but then why wasn’t there any mention of that dynamic or the specifics involved with it in the special? Unless I missed it, James was simply sitting in a Boys & Girls Club branch in Greenwich, CT, with kids around him, who in the end were more out-of-place props than named beneficiaries of James’ self-indulgence.
If James wanted to be sensitive to those in his home state he could have orchestrated this much differently. Once he made a decision, he simply could have planned the signing and press conference with his new team and then called the Cavaliers (and his other suitors) to deliver the news personally. The press conference takes place in Miami, giving time for Cleveland media to travel there, allowing opportunity for Cavaliers fans to hear his answers to questions being asked by their hometown media.
While I think it would have been a nice story for James to stay in Cleveland, I’ve seen enough in professional sports to lose most notions of idealism I had while following sports growing up. But I don’t believe James deserves, as some have said, to be the “most hated man in the NBA.” Outside of Cleveland, what beef do other NBA fans and sports fans in general have with James choosing after seven years in Cleveland to sign a free-agent contract to play elsewhere?
I defend those Cleveland fans because as a Seattle native I felt the pain of watching both Ken Griffey, Jr., and Alex Rodriguez bolt from the Emerald City. Neither was even a true hometown hero, though we felt like they were, having seen each grow from 18-year-old signees to major superstars. Griffey’s departure was easier to take because he actually went home with his move to the Cincinnati Reds. Rodriguez is another story. At least I can understand the vitriol that accompanies the feelings of betrayal when a long-time star leaves a city by his own choice.
Surprisingly, the one deserving the most criticism for his actions relative to his role and the expectations that go with it, is Gilbert. His unhinged written rant—in the font Comic Sans, no less—came out of nowhere just as the aftermath of this spectacle was winding down, and AFTER the Cavaliers organization had issued a very professional, well-reasoned statement to the media.
It is understandable Gilbert would feel betrayed and want to rally his team’s fans when things seem to crumbling around them. That’s what leaders do. But his approach was so bizarre for a team owner that it probably did him more harm than good.
Sure, it’s refreshing for media and fans to receive such candor from an owner of a professional sports franchise. And for his part, while Gilbert wants to win, he also wants to sell as many tickets and cash in on as much devotion as possible from the team’s fans and potential fans.
A big part of that, however, is built on signing players to deliver those wins and championships he’s promising, and if there’s one thing professional athletes are most loyal to—besides themselves and their families—it is their fellow players. After witnessing Gilbert’s epic blast at James’ back as he walks out the door, what player is motivated to come play for him? And it is those players who will determine whether the Cavaliers win even that first championship Gilbert is promising his fans.
Among PR directors’ worst nightmares is dealing with an owner or executive who is ruled by his emotions when speaking publicly (perhaps only topped by working with one who comes in the next day—or calls at 5 a.m.—with complaints about the negative stories you’ve allowed to be printed, or failed to prevent).
Either way, this whole LeBron James free-agent spectacle has given sports fans and media much to talk about during one of the slowest sports periods on the calendar (and don’t tell me about the World Cup, because while it’s huge globally, most sports fans in the United States truly don’t care beyond hoping the USA wins).
For all the criticism lobbed in his direction, LeBron James will be fine. He will make boat-loads of money, live in a great city and win a lot of games. He could have handled the whole process with a greater degree of humility, but his overall brand will not suffer, and clearly that is what is most important to him.
Those championships, however, will not come easily, no matter how much talent is around him.
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
Follow us on Twitter
Become a Fan on Facebook
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Champ Bailey & John Lynch Team Up to Benefit Youth
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Contacts:
Paul Kirk, 303-929-4686 / pkirk@prolinksports.net
Judianne Atencio, 303-886-3950 / jatencio@prolinksports.net
Denver Broncos’ Champ Bailey, John Lynch and Morton’s DTC Team Up for Kids
ENGLEWOOD, Colo.—Denver Broncos all-pro cornerback Champ Bailey and retired Broncos all-pro safety John Lynch are teaming up with Morton’s The Steakhouse in the Denver Tech Center on Monday, Sept. 20, for an exceptional evening of fine wine and great food to benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver, home to the Darrent Williams Memorial Teen Center.
This indoor-outdoor event is open to the public and provides a special opportunity for everyone to remember and celebrate the life of “D-Will” with members of the Denver Broncos. A VIP reception will be held from 6-7 p.m., and the event opens to all ticketholders at 7 p.m.
Event co-chairmen Bailey and Lynch were teammates of Williams’ during his two seasons as a Bronco (2005-06).
"Earlier this year we all had to relive the events surrounding Darrent's death, with the trial and sentencing,” Lynch said. “Supporting Boys & Girls Clubs and the Darrent Williams Memorial Teen Center is a way for us to get back to remembering the positive way ‘D-Will’ lived his life."
"Rosalind said after the trial she hoped something could be learned from Darrent's death,” Bailey said of Darrent Williams’ mother. “Giving our young people a positive place like the Boys & Girls Clubs is a way to keep them safe and away from the violence that took our friend Darrent from us. We want to raise needed funds for the Clubs and the Darrent Williams Memorial Teen Center, and we ask the people of Colorado to join us.”
In 2008, the Darrent Williams Memorial Teen Center opened at the Denver Broncos Boys & Girls Club, located at 4397 Crown Boulevard in Denver's Montbello neighborhood. The teen center provides a gathering place for youth ages 13–18 where they can socialize, work on homework, plan and implement service projects, participate in college and career preparatory programs, and avoid unsafe activities and influences.
Guests of the Morton’s event will enjoy a fine selection of vintage wines from some of the world’s most prestigious wineries including: Cambria, La Crema, Dutton-Goldfield, Duckhorn, Merryvale, Rodney Strong, ZD, Taittinger, Jordan, Franciscan, Robert Mondavi, Inniskillin and Mt Veeder. A Van Gogh Blue Vodka Martini Bar will also be served. Republic National Distributing Company will provide all the wines for the evening.
A strolling dinner buffet will be served including such Morton’s favorites as bluepoint oysters, Shrimp Alexander, sliced filet mignon, Chicken Christopher, and poached chilled salmon.
KCNC-TV sports anchor Vic Lombardi will kick off a live auction featuring one-of-a-kind items. All of the proceeds from the live and silent auctions will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver.
Tickets for the VIP reception, wine-tasting and dinner go on sale today for $250 per person. Tickets for the wine-tasting and dinner only are $150 per person. A limited number of Young Professional tickets (ages 21 – 35) are $75 per person. Reservations may be made online at www.prolinksports.net.
For more information, or for sponsorship opportunities, please contact Judianne Atencio at ProLink Sports at 303-886-3950.
# # #
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver
The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver is to inspire and enable young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. Since 1961, Boys & Girls Club of Metro Denver has been helping kids from tough neighborhoods stay out of trouble, stay in school, and succeed in life. Not just after school hangouts, the Clubs are places where young people come to learn, do homework, develop social skills, express themselves creatively, and participate in sports. Learn more at www.BeGreatDenver.org.
Morton’s, The Steakhouse
Morton's Restaurant Group, Inc. is the world's largest operator of company-owned upscale steakhouses. Morton's steakhouses have remained true to their founders' original vision of combining generous portions of high quality food prepared to exacting standards with exceptional service in an enjoyable dining environment.
The company owns and operates 80 Morton's steakhouses located in 68 cities in 28 states and Puerto Rico and five international locations (Toronto, Vancouver, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Macau), as well as three Italian restaurants.
Morton’s The Steakhouse DTC is located at 8480 East Belleview Avenue in Greenwood Village. For reservations, call 303.409.1177.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Contacts:
Paul Kirk, 303-929-4686 / pkirk@prolinksports.net
Judianne Atencio, 303-886-3950 / jatencio@prolinksports.net
Denver Broncos’ Champ Bailey, John Lynch and Morton’s DTC Team Up for Kids
ENGLEWOOD, Colo.—Denver Broncos all-pro cornerback Champ Bailey and retired Broncos all-pro safety John Lynch are teaming up with Morton’s The Steakhouse in the Denver Tech Center on Monday, Sept. 20, for an exceptional evening of fine wine and great food to benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver, home to the Darrent Williams Memorial Teen Center.
This indoor-outdoor event is open to the public and provides a special opportunity for everyone to remember and celebrate the life of “D-Will” with members of the Denver Broncos. A VIP reception will be held from 6-7 p.m., and the event opens to all ticketholders at 7 p.m.
Event co-chairmen Bailey and Lynch were teammates of Williams’ during his two seasons as a Bronco (2005-06).
"Earlier this year we all had to relive the events surrounding Darrent's death, with the trial and sentencing,” Lynch said. “Supporting Boys & Girls Clubs and the Darrent Williams Memorial Teen Center is a way for us to get back to remembering the positive way ‘D-Will’ lived his life."
"Rosalind said after the trial she hoped something could be learned from Darrent's death,” Bailey said of Darrent Williams’ mother. “Giving our young people a positive place like the Boys & Girls Clubs is a way to keep them safe and away from the violence that took our friend Darrent from us. We want to raise needed funds for the Clubs and the Darrent Williams Memorial Teen Center, and we ask the people of Colorado to join us.”
In 2008, the Darrent Williams Memorial Teen Center opened at the Denver Broncos Boys & Girls Club, located at 4397 Crown Boulevard in Denver's Montbello neighborhood. The teen center provides a gathering place for youth ages 13–18 where they can socialize, work on homework, plan and implement service projects, participate in college and career preparatory programs, and avoid unsafe activities and influences.
Guests of the Morton’s event will enjoy a fine selection of vintage wines from some of the world’s most prestigious wineries including: Cambria, La Crema, Dutton-Goldfield, Duckhorn, Merryvale, Rodney Strong, ZD, Taittinger, Jordan, Franciscan, Robert Mondavi, Inniskillin and Mt Veeder. A Van Gogh Blue Vodka Martini Bar will also be served. Republic National Distributing Company will provide all the wines for the evening.
A strolling dinner buffet will be served including such Morton’s favorites as bluepoint oysters, Shrimp Alexander, sliced filet mignon, Chicken Christopher, and poached chilled salmon.
KCNC-TV sports anchor Vic Lombardi will kick off a live auction featuring one-of-a-kind items. All of the proceeds from the live and silent auctions will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver.
Tickets for the VIP reception, wine-tasting and dinner go on sale today for $250 per person. Tickets for the wine-tasting and dinner only are $150 per person. A limited number of Young Professional tickets (ages 21 – 35) are $75 per person. Reservations may be made online at www.prolinksports.net.
For more information, or for sponsorship opportunities, please contact Judianne Atencio at ProLink Sports at 303-886-3950.
# # #
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver
The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver is to inspire and enable young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. Since 1961, Boys & Girls Club of Metro Denver has been helping kids from tough neighborhoods stay out of trouble, stay in school, and succeed in life. Not just after school hangouts, the Clubs are places where young people come to learn, do homework, develop social skills, express themselves creatively, and participate in sports. Learn more at www.BeGreatDenver.org.
Morton’s, The Steakhouse
Morton's Restaurant Group, Inc. is the world's largest operator of company-owned upscale steakhouses. Morton's steakhouses have remained true to their founders' original vision of combining generous portions of high quality food prepared to exacting standards with exceptional service in an enjoyable dining environment.
The company owns and operates 80 Morton's steakhouses located in 68 cities in 28 states and Puerto Rico and five international locations (Toronto, Vancouver, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Macau), as well as three Italian restaurants.
Morton’s The Steakhouse DTC is located at 8480 East Belleview Avenue in Greenwood Village. For reservations, call 303.409.1177.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Lonie Paxton's Active Force Foundation Bowls Perfect Strike with NFL Draft Party/Bowling Bash
Lonie Paxton put his Active Force Foundation on the map in Colorado in a big way last Thursday when his 2010 NFL Draft Party and Bowling Bash brought out stars and heroes to share in a perfect strike of fundraising excitement at Brunswick Zone in Lone Tree.The stars came in the form of Paxton, the Denver Broncos’ long-snapper, and 15 of his teammates, including All-Pro cornerback Champ Bailey, quarterbacks Kyle Orton and Brady Quinn, starting tight end Daniel Graham and run-stoppers Darrell Reid, Ronald Fields and Mario Haggan.
But the real stars of the night were heroes from the U.S. Army’s Warrior Transition Battalion at Fort Carson, Colo. A group of 54 soldiers and family members from that unit were the honored guests of Active Force Foundation, invited to share in the fun of the night and have a good time bowling and watching the draft with guests, sponsors and NFL players.
Active Force Foundation was created by Paxton and friend Brook Duquesnel in 2003 to build adaptive sports equipment and create programs for disabled athletes and wounded soldiers to enjoy outdoor recreational sports. Together they teamed up with engineer Jason Yim to build unique four-wheel mountain bikes that create a “level playing field” for all athletes to experience the rush of traversing a wilderness trail.The event was Active Force’s first in Colorado. Paxton started the foundation during his nine-year stint with the New England Patriots (2000-08), and sees tremendous opportunities for growth since his 2009 free-agent signing with the Broncos. The move was not only a positive one for his football career, but Colorado’s abundant mountain terrain and large military presence make it a natural home for Active Force Foundation to take its fundraising and programming to new heights.
By the nature of their position, long-snappers mostly fly under the radar—and that’s just fine with Paxton. But off the field he has big goals for the reach of AFF’s mission and the impact the Foundation can have on people’s lives.Last Thursday’s Draft Party and Bowling Bash showed the Active Force Foundation is well on its way to gathering the kind of momentum and support that make its goals fully attainable.
Congratulations to Lonie, Brook and Jason, and a special thank-you to Paul Sheehy and ProStar Sports. It was a pleasure to work with them on this event.
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
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Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Lonie Paxton of Denver Broncos to Host Draft Party & Bowling Event
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, March 9, 2010 (**updated April 7, 2010**)
CONTACT:
Paul Kirk, ProLink Sports
(303) 929-4686 / pkirk@prolinksports.net
DENVER BRONCO LONIE PAXTON TO HOST 2010 NFL DRAFT PARTY AND BOWLING BASH
DENVER—Denver Broncos long-snapper Lonie Paxton and the Active Force Foundation will host the 2010 NFL Draft and Bowling Bash party on Thursday, April 22 at Brunswick Zone in Lone Tree, Colo. The proceeds will benefit Active Force Foundation and its support of U.S. Army wounded warriors. Brunswick Zone is located at 9255 Kimmer Dr. (please note the change from the original venue, Mr. Bigg's).
Paxton will be joined by many of his Denver Broncos teammates for this special event, centered around the first round of the NFL Draft, being held for the first time on a weeknight in prime time.
The Draft Party kicks off at 4:30 p.m. and the fun continues with the Celebrity Bowling Bash at 5:30 p.m., in which sponsors will bowl with Lonie and other NFL players, as well as wounded warriors from Fort Carson, Colo.
“The causes supported by this event are very important to me,” Paxton said. “This is the perfect way to come together, have some fun and raise money for organizations I respect and support. Come join us as we salute our country's true heroes.”
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now:
Warrior Sponsorship—$500
* One bowling lane. Two sponsor guests bowl with two warriors and an NFL player
* 10 general admission Draft Party tickets
* Autographed Football to collect remembrances of the evening
* Exclusive photo opportunity experiences with America's heroes from the battlefield and football field
Hero Sponsorship—$250
* One bowling lane. Four sponsor guests bowl for one three-hour session
* 10 general admission Draft Party tickets
2010 NFL Draft Party Tickets—$20
* Watch the first round of the NFL Draft with members of the Denver Broncos and other NFL players (Does not include bowling)
Space is limited. To purchase a lane or tickets please download the event flyer and registration form found online at www.activeforcefoundation.org. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available through AFF by sending a message to PaxtonDraftParty@aol.com or by calling (303) 886-3950.
ABOUT ACTIVE FORCE FOUNDATION
NFL player Lonie Paxton launched Active Force Foundation in 2003. Its mission is to implement its downhill four-wheel mountain bikes into adaptive sports camps and programs throughout the world in order to better serve the disabled sports community. Paxton is in his second year with the Denver Broncos in 2010 after playing nine years with the New England Patriots, where he won three Super Bowls.
# # #
Friday, February 19, 2010
Woods His Own Worst Enemy
The Tiger Woods “press conference” today proved why it was roundly criticized as an inadvisable approach for a first step in re-establishing his public image.
Woods may be applauded for finally facing the media and confronting a very embarrassing personal situation. That could not have been easy. But he failed today for two reasons: He spoke in a format that perpetuated the very same elitism he claimed to have shed, and he scolded the media for a situation he created.
If you’re going to speak to the media, preventing them from asking questions and then chastising them for doing what they do is usually not a wise strategy.
To the first point, reading from a prepared script made him appear stiff and robotic, though that’s nothing new for Woods. He said all the right words (congratulations to his speech writer) but the setting and format undermined the impact of those words.
A more effective strategy would have included a brief opening statement that conveyed the same carefully chosen words of contrition and humility, followed by a limited question-and-answer session. While the Q&A format would have surrendered control to the media, with preparation and practice Woods could have fielded those questions effectively and in the process conveyed the type of human qualities he needed to win over the public. By catering to one of the media’s most fundamental demands he would have shown respect for their jobs and received far less ridicule.
Woods said his mistake was allowing himself to feel entitled and special, and giving in to temptations because he rationalized that he could. But every element of today’s rigid format conveyed entitlement, and that he didn’t have to do things the way everyone else does. Again, the issue is control, and because he was unwilling to give any to the media, they will continue to doubt him and challenge him at every opportunity.
To the latter point, it is never an effective strategy to take others to task and cast blame when claiming to take responsibility and learn from mistakes. In this case, the entire reason for the press conference is to address lifestyle choices that Tiger Woods made. He repeated several times that he knows he created this problem and he was the one responsible for it. But he is also responsible for creating the situation in which he criticized media, or “paparazzi” as he said, for following members of his family. Woods was indignant and downright perturbed in describing his daughter being followed to school.
I don’t blame Woods for wanting to protect his family. Any reasonable person would agree that the scrutiny should only fall on Tiger Woods and that his family was off-limits. But he created that demand by disappearing from public view and hiding from his responsibility.
By not addressing it sooner Woods allowed the pressure to build. He made the point several times today that he alone was responsible and thus he alone—not his family—should be scrutinized.
Absolutely. But he didn’t choose to step up and own this in a timely manner, and for that he allowed his entire family to suffer the collective scrutiny of the “Tiger Watch.”
By chastising the media Tiger Woods devalued the carefully crafted words he spoke and sabotaged the genuine effect those words were designed to achieve. It is difficult to convince people you are remorseful and take responsibility when you cast blame on others in the process.
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
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Woods may be applauded for finally facing the media and confronting a very embarrassing personal situation. That could not have been easy. But he failed today for two reasons: He spoke in a format that perpetuated the very same elitism he claimed to have shed, and he scolded the media for a situation he created.
If you’re going to speak to the media, preventing them from asking questions and then chastising them for doing what they do is usually not a wise strategy.
To the first point, reading from a prepared script made him appear stiff and robotic, though that’s nothing new for Woods. He said all the right words (congratulations to his speech writer) but the setting and format undermined the impact of those words.
A more effective strategy would have included a brief opening statement that conveyed the same carefully chosen words of contrition and humility, followed by a limited question-and-answer session. While the Q&A format would have surrendered control to the media, with preparation and practice Woods could have fielded those questions effectively and in the process conveyed the type of human qualities he needed to win over the public. By catering to one of the media’s most fundamental demands he would have shown respect for their jobs and received far less ridicule.
Woods said his mistake was allowing himself to feel entitled and special, and giving in to temptations because he rationalized that he could. But every element of today’s rigid format conveyed entitlement, and that he didn’t have to do things the way everyone else does. Again, the issue is control, and because he was unwilling to give any to the media, they will continue to doubt him and challenge him at every opportunity.
To the latter point, it is never an effective strategy to take others to task and cast blame when claiming to take responsibility and learn from mistakes. In this case, the entire reason for the press conference is to address lifestyle choices that Tiger Woods made. He repeated several times that he knows he created this problem and he was the one responsible for it. But he is also responsible for creating the situation in which he criticized media, or “paparazzi” as he said, for following members of his family. Woods was indignant and downright perturbed in describing his daughter being followed to school.
I don’t blame Woods for wanting to protect his family. Any reasonable person would agree that the scrutiny should only fall on Tiger Woods and that his family was off-limits. But he created that demand by disappearing from public view and hiding from his responsibility.
By not addressing it sooner Woods allowed the pressure to build. He made the point several times today that he alone was responsible and thus he alone—not his family—should be scrutinized.
Absolutely. But he didn’t choose to step up and own this in a timely manner, and for that he allowed his entire family to suffer the collective scrutiny of the “Tiger Watch.”
By chastising the media Tiger Woods devalued the carefully crafted words he spoke and sabotaged the genuine effect those words were designed to achieve. It is difficult to convince people you are remorseful and take responsibility when you cast blame on others in the process.
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
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Thursday, February 18, 2010
Why Tiger Woods Owes More Than a Statement
The Tiger Woods statement to the media scheduled for tomorrow has quickly become this week’s polarizing issue in the sports world.
At odds, in simplest terms, are those who believe Tiger Woods owes the public more than an apology contained in a public statement and those who believe he does not.
The latter camp generally seems comfortable with the notion that because his indiscretions involved his personal life his only obligation is to his family. In the broadest sense, I somewhat agree—if he were just a regular individual in society.
We all know that Tiger Woods is not that. He is, and has been for many years, the No. 1 golfer in the world and one of the most globally recognizable athletes. That is the reason I would advise him to make his first public appearance in a far less controlled setting and allow questions to be asked.
Like many athletes and celebrities, Tiger Woods is surrounded by sycophants whose livelihood depends on being part of “Team Tiger.” This is hardly an arrangement that invites objective thinking. What he and others need most is a “conscience coach.”
Tiger Woods has already harmed his image and reputation by the choices he has made. He harmed it further by disappearing from public view and not facing the media sooner. To truly turn the corner he needs to rip the band-aid off, so to speak, and give the media the chance to ask him questions.
Is there danger in this approach? Will the media be thirsty for lurid details about which Tiger will not, and should not, speak? Absolutely. But that’s why you practice and prepare for such a press conference. Any disciplined athlete who can be coached on the field of play also has the focus and work ethic to be coached for these situations. It is the same coaching that would be required for an in-depth sit-down TV interview if that were the route he chose, but each would be more authentic than simply reading a statement.
Allowing questions to be asked does not obligate Tiger Woods to answer every one in the way the media would like. What it does is show that he is no longer hiding. To truly emerge from the shame and doubts he has brought upon himself Woods must show humility and remorse. It’s very difficult to do that when reading a prepared statement, even if the statement includes words to that effect. Taking questions and being patient with each is the way he begins to show there is meaning behind his words.
Is Woods required to do this? No. But unlike many athletes Woods has mostly been given a free pass from the media for his behavior on the course and his robotic personality off of it. Tomorrow’s tightly-controlled arrangement perpetuates the same elitist attitude that makes Woods appear only willing to go through the most minimal exercise to announce his return to golf and offer only the briefest of apologies to those he has disappointed, as if just checking things off a list.
But Tiger Woods owes more than that. The amends he needed to make with his family are most important, and he has had plenty of time to do that. Now it is time to apologize to the fans he has let down and the sponsors whose trust he has betrayed. Each has been a partner in making Tiger Woods the richest and most famous athlete in the world—a mantle he gladly accepted along with the money that accompanied it.
His popularity has been based not only on his on-course dominance but also on the assumption that he lived as virtuous and principled a life as his image promised. To separate those and say his off-course life was not a factor in his popularity is preposterous.
There are strategic communicators and publicists who would disagree and adopt a “circle the wagons” approach. At times this is necessary. But to do so in this case only enables the same behavior that led to his current troubles, and suggests that somehow the real problem is the media and the public.
The media and the public didn’t make Tiger Woods live the lifestyle he lived. They just want to see him show humility and say he is sorry that he failed to uphold the image he portrayed. The danger that accompanies tomorrow’s hit-and-run approach is that it will satisfy only a few, and will invite a greater cloud of scrutiny and distraction to hover over him for much longer than it would otherwise.
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
Follow us on Twitter
Become a Fan on Facebook
At odds, in simplest terms, are those who believe Tiger Woods owes the public more than an apology contained in a public statement and those who believe he does not.
The latter camp generally seems comfortable with the notion that because his indiscretions involved his personal life his only obligation is to his family. In the broadest sense, I somewhat agree—if he were just a regular individual in society.
We all know that Tiger Woods is not that. He is, and has been for many years, the No. 1 golfer in the world and one of the most globally recognizable athletes. That is the reason I would advise him to make his first public appearance in a far less controlled setting and allow questions to be asked.
Like many athletes and celebrities, Tiger Woods is surrounded by sycophants whose livelihood depends on being part of “Team Tiger.” This is hardly an arrangement that invites objective thinking. What he and others need most is a “conscience coach.”
Tiger Woods has already harmed his image and reputation by the choices he has made. He harmed it further by disappearing from public view and not facing the media sooner. To truly turn the corner he needs to rip the band-aid off, so to speak, and give the media the chance to ask him questions.
Is there danger in this approach? Will the media be thirsty for lurid details about which Tiger will not, and should not, speak? Absolutely. But that’s why you practice and prepare for such a press conference. Any disciplined athlete who can be coached on the field of play also has the focus and work ethic to be coached for these situations. It is the same coaching that would be required for an in-depth sit-down TV interview if that were the route he chose, but each would be more authentic than simply reading a statement.
Allowing questions to be asked does not obligate Tiger Woods to answer every one in the way the media would like. What it does is show that he is no longer hiding. To truly emerge from the shame and doubts he has brought upon himself Woods must show humility and remorse. It’s very difficult to do that when reading a prepared statement, even if the statement includes words to that effect. Taking questions and being patient with each is the way he begins to show there is meaning behind his words.
Is Woods required to do this? No. But unlike many athletes Woods has mostly been given a free pass from the media for his behavior on the course and his robotic personality off of it. Tomorrow’s tightly-controlled arrangement perpetuates the same elitist attitude that makes Woods appear only willing to go through the most minimal exercise to announce his return to golf and offer only the briefest of apologies to those he has disappointed, as if just checking things off a list.
But Tiger Woods owes more than that. The amends he needed to make with his family are most important, and he has had plenty of time to do that. Now it is time to apologize to the fans he has let down and the sponsors whose trust he has betrayed. Each has been a partner in making Tiger Woods the richest and most famous athlete in the world—a mantle he gladly accepted along with the money that accompanied it.
His popularity has been based not only on his on-course dominance but also on the assumption that he lived as virtuous and principled a life as his image promised. To separate those and say his off-course life was not a factor in his popularity is preposterous.
There are strategic communicators and publicists who would disagree and adopt a “circle the wagons” approach. At times this is necessary. But to do so in this case only enables the same behavior that led to his current troubles, and suggests that somehow the real problem is the media and the public.
The media and the public didn’t make Tiger Woods live the lifestyle he lived. They just want to see him show humility and say he is sorry that he failed to uphold the image he portrayed. The danger that accompanies tomorrow’s hit-and-run approach is that it will satisfy only a few, and will invite a greater cloud of scrutiny and distraction to hover over him for much longer than it would otherwise.
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
Follow us on Twitter
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Saturday, February 6, 2010
Quotes from Ed McCaffrey and Rod Smith on Floyd Little & Shannon Sharpe
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Floyd Little—Pro Football Hall of Fame, Class of 2010
Former Denver Broncos wide receivers Ed McCaffrey and Rod Smith provided the following quotes to recognize today’s election of former Bronco Floyd Little into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2010, and the exclusion of their former teammate Shannon Sharpe.
Rod Smith on Shannon Sharpe and Floyd Little:
“I’m very disappointed about Shannon not getting in because there’s not a more deserving person for his position. I know it’s inevitable that he will be enshrined in Canton one day, because that’s the class of player he was, but I don’t think he should have to wait long.”
“At the same time I take my hat off to Floyd Little because he’s a great guy and was the face of the Denver Broncos franchise for so long. He kept the organization in the national spotlight all by himself with the way he played. Today he is still an ambassador for the NFL and how you’re supposed to go about doing things as a person. It makes me proud to have him be the third Denver Bronco enshrined in Canton because he definitely deserves that.”
“Now we just need to get more Denver Broncos in there.”
Quote from Ed McCaffrey on Floyd Little:
“Floyd Little helped build the Denver Broncos in the early years, and created the opportunity for myself and others to come to Denver and play for a great franchise with the best fans in the world. I’m thankful for that and thrilled to see him finally recognized by the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Floyd was not only a special player, but is a man of great character and integrity. We are all proud to have him represent our Denver Broncos in Canton.”
McCaffrey on Shannon Sharpe:
“Shannon was one of the hardest-working guys I ever played with, and is unquestionably one of the greatest tight ends to play this game. I’m sorry to see he did not make this year’s class. He is very deserving, and belongs among the game’s very best.”
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
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Floyd Little—Pro Football Hall of Fame, Class of 2010
Former Denver Broncos wide receivers Ed McCaffrey and Rod Smith provided the following quotes to recognize today’s election of former Bronco Floyd Little into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2010, and the exclusion of their former teammate Shannon Sharpe.
Rod Smith on Shannon Sharpe and Floyd Little:
“I’m very disappointed about Shannon not getting in because there’s not a more deserving person for his position. I know it’s inevitable that he will be enshrined in Canton one day, because that’s the class of player he was, but I don’t think he should have to wait long.”
“At the same time I take my hat off to Floyd Little because he’s a great guy and was the face of the Denver Broncos franchise for so long. He kept the organization in the national spotlight all by himself with the way he played. Today he is still an ambassador for the NFL and how you’re supposed to go about doing things as a person. It makes me proud to have him be the third Denver Bronco enshrined in Canton because he definitely deserves that.”
“Now we just need to get more Denver Broncos in there.”
Quote from Ed McCaffrey on Floyd Little:
“Floyd Little helped build the Denver Broncos in the early years, and created the opportunity for myself and others to come to Denver and play for a great franchise with the best fans in the world. I’m thankful for that and thrilled to see him finally recognized by the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Floyd was not only a special player, but is a man of great character and integrity. We are all proud to have him represent our Denver Broncos in Canton.”
McCaffrey on Shannon Sharpe:
“Shannon was one of the hardest-working guys I ever played with, and is unquestionably one of the greatest tight ends to play this game. I’m sorry to see he did not make this year’s class. He is very deserving, and belongs among the game’s very best.”
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
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Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Pro Bowl is Latest Media Punching Bag
It’s fashionable this week among the media to criticize the NFL’s Pro Bowl arrangement, playing the game in the same location as the Super Bowl, one week before the NFL’s championship game.
I know, I’ve heard plenty about how the Pro Bowl is a joke, and nobody wants to play in it, and how nobody cares about it, nobody watches it and so forth.
We know this because each time it is announced that a player will not participate due to injury, the same smug choir snickers the same tired mantra: “Pretty soon, I’ll be playing in the Pro Bowl instead of covering it!”
Save it.
There are several things to keep in mind:
1) It’s an imperfect event to begin with. Football is a physical sport, and that’s why they play the games once a week, which eliminates a midseason all-star game such as the one played in the romanticized sport of baseball (“the Mid-Summer Classic”). The only time to play it is some time after the regular season.
2) There have always been players selected who don’t play in the game. Yes, even in Hawaii. That’s why alternates are selected. Again, it’s a physical sport.
3) The NFL is so big and so successful, sometimes people just need to find something—anything—they can criticize.
With that established, it’s important to remember that players do consider it an honor, and people do watch.
If players did not consider it an honor—as some suggest because of the big names who won’t be playing—then why are we deluged every year when the teams are announced by a wave of media stories citing players who were snubbed or overlooked? They seem to care then, and I’ll bet they care when they see those who are chosen practicing and playing in the game, some even citing it as motivation throughout offseason training.
And to the notion that “nobody cares” about the game, I suppose they mean that nobody goes to the game or watches. Attendance figures and TV ratings would beg to differ.
It’s always been amusing to read those opinions when the game was played in Hawaii. Every year we hear how lame the Pro Bowl is, and then ratings come out, and they reflect that not only did some people watch, but (gasp!) more people watched the Pro Bowl than even playoff and championship contests in the other major sports.
Yes, ratings for a supposedly irrelevant exhibition in one sport, dwarfing the ratings for playoff contests in another. Advantage: NFL.
If I had to guess why we hear this same chant every year and why it’s even more pronounced this year, I would have to settle on two conclusions:
1) When something is as big and successful as the NFL, people have to find some perceived weak link to pick on;
2) There are just that many more forums to discuss sports—websites, social media—than ever before, and with no news to come out of the camps of Super Bowl participants Indianapolis and New Orleans for a few more days, there has to be SOMETHING to talk about. And what’s next? The Pro Bowl. Unleash the torrent of snickers and witticisms. Snappy one-liners perfect for a 140-character tweet!
What does this mean? Not much. The Pro Bowl will be played, and despite all the complaints about the imperfection of the arrangement (Colts & Saints players not participating, it’s not in Hawaii, it’s an all-star game without the stars, etc.), I expect that attendance and ratings will be as good as, or better than, ever.
The reason is that we’re a nation starved for football, and nobody delivers like the NFL. Detractors, deal with it. And with two weeks to wait for the Super Bowl (oh, yeah, I can hear the drumbeat now about what a bad idea that is too), I’m willing to guess the Pro Bowl will actually be a welcome treat for sports fans, and they will watch.
The Pro Bowl in Miami will continue to be the media’s punching bag for four more days, and probably beyond, but it’s really much ado about nothing.
It calls to mind a tired phrase, but one that became tired because it fits so many situations: “It is what it is.” For something allegedly so irrelevant, it sure has garnered a lot of attention.
Reminds me a little of the famous Yogi Berra line about a particular restaurant: “Nobody goes there anymore because it’s too crowded.”
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
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I know, I’ve heard plenty about how the Pro Bowl is a joke, and nobody wants to play in it, and how nobody cares about it, nobody watches it and so forth.
We know this because each time it is announced that a player will not participate due to injury, the same smug choir snickers the same tired mantra: “Pretty soon, I’ll be playing in the Pro Bowl instead of covering it!”
Save it.
There are several things to keep in mind:
1) It’s an imperfect event to begin with. Football is a physical sport, and that’s why they play the games once a week, which eliminates a midseason all-star game such as the one played in the romanticized sport of baseball (“the Mid-Summer Classic”). The only time to play it is some time after the regular season.
2) There have always been players selected who don’t play in the game. Yes, even in Hawaii. That’s why alternates are selected. Again, it’s a physical sport.
3) The NFL is so big and so successful, sometimes people just need to find something—anything—they can criticize.
With that established, it’s important to remember that players do consider it an honor, and people do watch.
If players did not consider it an honor—as some suggest because of the big names who won’t be playing—then why are we deluged every year when the teams are announced by a wave of media stories citing players who were snubbed or overlooked? They seem to care then, and I’ll bet they care when they see those who are chosen practicing and playing in the game, some even citing it as motivation throughout offseason training.
And to the notion that “nobody cares” about the game, I suppose they mean that nobody goes to the game or watches. Attendance figures and TV ratings would beg to differ.
It’s always been amusing to read those opinions when the game was played in Hawaii. Every year we hear how lame the Pro Bowl is, and then ratings come out, and they reflect that not only did some people watch, but (gasp!) more people watched the Pro Bowl than even playoff and championship contests in the other major sports.
Yes, ratings for a supposedly irrelevant exhibition in one sport, dwarfing the ratings for playoff contests in another. Advantage: NFL.
If I had to guess why we hear this same chant every year and why it’s even more pronounced this year, I would have to settle on two conclusions:
1) When something is as big and successful as the NFL, people have to find some perceived weak link to pick on;
2) There are just that many more forums to discuss sports—websites, social media—than ever before, and with no news to come out of the camps of Super Bowl participants Indianapolis and New Orleans for a few more days, there has to be SOMETHING to talk about. And what’s next? The Pro Bowl. Unleash the torrent of snickers and witticisms. Snappy one-liners perfect for a 140-character tweet!
What does this mean? Not much. The Pro Bowl will be played, and despite all the complaints about the imperfection of the arrangement (Colts & Saints players not participating, it’s not in Hawaii, it’s an all-star game without the stars, etc.), I expect that attendance and ratings will be as good as, or better than, ever.
The reason is that we’re a nation starved for football, and nobody delivers like the NFL. Detractors, deal with it. And with two weeks to wait for the Super Bowl (oh, yeah, I can hear the drumbeat now about what a bad idea that is too), I’m willing to guess the Pro Bowl will actually be a welcome treat for sports fans, and they will watch.
The Pro Bowl in Miami will continue to be the media’s punching bag for four more days, and probably beyond, but it’s really much ado about nothing.
It calls to mind a tired phrase, but one that became tired because it fits so many situations: “It is what it is.” For something allegedly so irrelevant, it sure has garnered a lot of attention.
Reminds me a little of the famous Yogi Berra line about a particular restaurant: “Nobody goes there anymore because it’s too crowded.”
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook
Thursday, January 14, 2010
2010 Ed McCaffrey Football Camp: June 28-July 1
FOR USE AS DESIRED
Thursday, Jan. 14, 2010
CONTACT:
Paul Kirk, ProLink Sports
303.929.4686 / pkirk@prolinksports.net
NINTH ANNUAL ED McCAFFREY FOOTBALL CAMP SET FOR JUNE 28-JULY 1, 2010
Registration Now Open at www.EdMcCaffrey.com For Annual Football Camp at Valor Christian High School
CASTLE ROCK, Colo.—Former All-Pro wide receiver and three-time Super Bowl champion Ed McCaffrey today announced the dates for the Ninth Annual Ed McCaffrey Football Camp at Valor Christian High School in Highlands Ranch, Colo. The camp, for kids between the ages of 8 and 15, is scheduled for June 28th-July 1, from 8:30-11:30 a.m. each day. Participants may register by visiting www.edmccaffrey.com.
The camp includes football skills and speed training from some of the very best NFL, collegiate and high school coaches in the country. Former coaches and celebrity speakers include NFL greats Rod Smith, John Lynch, Mark Schlereth, Karl Mecklenburg, Chad Brown, Steve Beuerlein, Gus Frerotte and Trevor Pryce among others.
“We have assembled another all-star cast of coaches to teach our young campers about the great game of football,” McCaffrey says. “The skills we teach have been used by Pro Bowlers, Super Bowl champions and Hall of Famers.”
The Ed McCaffrey Football Camp offers far more than mere Xs and Os. Guest speakers are a big part of each day’s agenda, covering topics such as The Mental Edge, Making Good Choices and Healthy Living. McCaffrey describes the camp’s goals as follows: “While we pride ourselves on the success of our campers, as coaches our aim is to motivate and inspire every camper at every level to make the most of their unique talents and abilities on the field and in life.”
Campers will receive football skills training from NFL professionals, and speed and agility training from “trainer to the pros” Loren Landow, who has worked with more than 100 professional athletes, including several All-Pros and Super Bowl Champions. Participants will also enjoy 7-on-7 competition throughout the week and the opportunity to gauge their skills during the “Youth Combine,” modeled after the NFL’s pre-draft Scouting Combine.
The camp culminates with an autograph session by Ed and his fellow NFL and college players and coaches, who thoroughly enjoy sharing with future generations of youth football players what they know about the great game of football.
To view pictures from last year’s camp, schedule an interview with Ed McCaffrey, or for more information, please visit www.edmccaffrey.com, or call (303) 675-8787.
# # #
Thursday, Jan. 14, 2010
CONTACT:
Paul Kirk, ProLink Sports
303.929.4686 / pkirk@prolinksports.net
NINTH ANNUAL ED McCAFFREY FOOTBALL CAMP SET FOR JUNE 28-JULY 1, 2010
Registration Now Open at www.EdMcCaffrey.com For Annual Football Camp at Valor Christian High School
CASTLE ROCK, Colo.—Former All-Pro wide receiver and three-time Super Bowl champion Ed McCaffrey today announced the dates for the Ninth Annual Ed McCaffrey Football Camp at Valor Christian High School in Highlands Ranch, Colo. The camp, for kids between the ages of 8 and 15, is scheduled for June 28th-July 1, from 8:30-11:30 a.m. each day. Participants may register by visiting www.edmccaffrey.com.
The camp includes football skills and speed training from some of the very best NFL, collegiate and high school coaches in the country. Former coaches and celebrity speakers include NFL greats Rod Smith, John Lynch, Mark Schlereth, Karl Mecklenburg, Chad Brown, Steve Beuerlein, Gus Frerotte and Trevor Pryce among others.
“We have assembled another all-star cast of coaches to teach our young campers about the great game of football,” McCaffrey says. “The skills we teach have been used by Pro Bowlers, Super Bowl champions and Hall of Famers.”
The Ed McCaffrey Football Camp offers far more than mere Xs and Os. Guest speakers are a big part of each day’s agenda, covering topics such as The Mental Edge, Making Good Choices and Healthy Living. McCaffrey describes the camp’s goals as follows: “While we pride ourselves on the success of our campers, as coaches our aim is to motivate and inspire every camper at every level to make the most of their unique talents and abilities on the field and in life.”
Campers will receive football skills training from NFL professionals, and speed and agility training from “trainer to the pros” Loren Landow, who has worked with more than 100 professional athletes, including several All-Pros and Super Bowl Champions. Participants will also enjoy 7-on-7 competition throughout the week and the opportunity to gauge their skills during the “Youth Combine,” modeled after the NFL’s pre-draft Scouting Combine.
The camp culminates with an autograph session by Ed and his fellow NFL and college players and coaches, who thoroughly enjoy sharing with future generations of youth football players what they know about the great game of football.
To view pictures from last year’s camp, schedule an interview with Ed McCaffrey, or for more information, please visit www.edmccaffrey.com, or call (303) 675-8787.
# # #
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Steroids in Sports: The Mark McGwire Admission
When former major league baseball slugger Mark McGwire admitted this week that he had, indeed, taken steroids during his playing career, it was not a surprise.
Suspicion had surrounded McGwire for years, heightened by his record 1998 season in which he hit 70 home runs, and unalleviated by his evasive March 2005 testimony before a congressional committee.
McGwire’s announcement Monday was met with widespread derision for two reasons: 1) It came more than five years too late, and 2) It was incomplete.
It provided yet another example of how NOT to handle a crisis. The tried-and-true PR adage was proven once again: Tell it yourself first, and tell it all, or someone else will. In McGwire’s case, it’s more like “or let Jose Canseco tell it for you.”
Not that a complete public confession and apology will make everybody forget the transgressions, but it does go a long way toward restoring faith and resurrecting one’s image. Failing to do so—McGwire, Tiger Woods, Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds—only leads to more suspicion and negative image.
One who got it right was Andy Pettite. He dealt with his steroids admission head-on and people largely moved on. The impression it leaves is, “Hey, I don’t like what he did, but he was upfront and he seems to be remorseful. I’m good with that.”
Typically when scandal surrounds an athlete, other athletes subtly invoke the “players’ code,” which refers to an unwillingness to criticize fellow athletes. That’s what made former NFL wide receiver Ed McCaffrey’s comments yesterday on his weekly radio show all the more impactful. Speaking with Denver’s ESPN 1600 AM’s “Sports Insiders,” McCaffrey challenged the scope of McGwire’s admission, and talked about the larger issue of Performance-Enhancing Drugs in sports.
“You have to be a little suspicious,” McCaffrey said. “Everybody knew that (McGwire) was juicing when he was playing. Everybody knew he was juicing after he retired. He never admitted it; swore up and down he didn’t do it. Honestly, I think that now he knows he’s probably not going to get voted into the Hall of Fame if he doesn’t admit it. He tried to do a ‘pseudo-admission’ of guilt, but the suggestion that it was only for health reasons is preposterous.”
McCaffrey has respect for what McGwire accomplished on the field, but little tolerance for those who break the rules. “There are probably guys in the Hall of Fame—or there will be—who have used Performance-Enhancing Drugs, and in my opinion you treat them all equally. If that’s something you want to not allow, then nobody who got caught using them should be in the Hall of Fame.”
McCaffrey was asked about his long-time Denver Broncos teammate Bill Romanowski, who very publicly acknowledged his past steroid use in his 2005 autobiography and “60 Minutes” interview.
“Bill came out and admitted it,” McCaffrey said Tuesday. “You’d see Bill leave to go back to California, the Bay Area, and train out there for awhile, and come back 25 pounds of muscle heavier and you’re thinking…just doing the math, ‘that’s impossible’ to get that strong that quick. I would suspect it myself. I never did see him use anything illegal and he never offered it to me, and I was a teammate. But when someone leaves for a month and comes back 25 pounds of muscle heavier it just doesn’t make any sense. People that train every day as hard as they possibly can the right way know that that’s not possible.”
What matters most to McCaffrey when evaluating the impact steroids have on sports is the integrity of the game.
“Every athlete has the ability to make the right choice or to make the wrong choice. I never made any effort to go looking for (Performance-Enhancing Drugs) nor would I ever use them. I made that choice early in my career. But it does upset me because there are players (who use PEDs), not just who will go to the Hall of Fame or to the Pro Bowl or earn a starting spot, but even make a team over another guy. The reason guys like Mark McGwire are singled out is because they’re the ones who have had unbelievable success, but imagine the guy who uses them and gets to play 5 or 6 years in the league as opposed to not making a team. It affects everybody and cheating is cheating, and it ought to be penalized when it’s discovered.”
McCaffrey is quick to draw a distinction between his disdain for the decisions one makes to cheat, and not the person who makes them.
“There are some really nice guys who are great teammates who played hard, (but) break a rule. They should be penalized for breaking the rule. It doesn’t mean you have to hate them or that they’re a bad guy all the way around. They may be a good family guy, they may be a good Dad or husband, they may do a lot in the community. But when it comes to breaking the rules in your sport you have to be penalized appropriately.”
McCaffrey’s weekly radio show airs every Tuesday at 8:25 a.m. MT on Denver’s ESPN Radio 1600 AM.
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook
Suspicion had surrounded McGwire for years, heightened by his record 1998 season in which he hit 70 home runs, and unalleviated by his evasive March 2005 testimony before a congressional committee.
McGwire’s announcement Monday was met with widespread derision for two reasons: 1) It came more than five years too late, and 2) It was incomplete.
It provided yet another example of how NOT to handle a crisis. The tried-and-true PR adage was proven once again: Tell it yourself first, and tell it all, or someone else will. In McGwire’s case, it’s more like “or let Jose Canseco tell it for you.”
Not that a complete public confession and apology will make everybody forget the transgressions, but it does go a long way toward restoring faith and resurrecting one’s image. Failing to do so—McGwire, Tiger Woods, Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds—only leads to more suspicion and negative image.
One who got it right was Andy Pettite. He dealt with his steroids admission head-on and people largely moved on. The impression it leaves is, “Hey, I don’t like what he did, but he was upfront and he seems to be remorseful. I’m good with that.”
Typically when scandal surrounds an athlete, other athletes subtly invoke the “players’ code,” which refers to an unwillingness to criticize fellow athletes. That’s what made former NFL wide receiver Ed McCaffrey’s comments yesterday on his weekly radio show all the more impactful. Speaking with Denver’s ESPN 1600 AM’s “Sports Insiders,” McCaffrey challenged the scope of McGwire’s admission, and talked about the larger issue of Performance-Enhancing Drugs in sports.
“You have to be a little suspicious,” McCaffrey said. “Everybody knew that (McGwire) was juicing when he was playing. Everybody knew he was juicing after he retired. He never admitted it; swore up and down he didn’t do it. Honestly, I think that now he knows he’s probably not going to get voted into the Hall of Fame if he doesn’t admit it. He tried to do a ‘pseudo-admission’ of guilt, but the suggestion that it was only for health reasons is preposterous.”
McCaffrey has respect for what McGwire accomplished on the field, but little tolerance for those who break the rules. “There are probably guys in the Hall of Fame—or there will be—who have used Performance-Enhancing Drugs, and in my opinion you treat them all equally. If that’s something you want to not allow, then nobody who got caught using them should be in the Hall of Fame.”
McCaffrey was asked about his long-time Denver Broncos teammate Bill Romanowski, who very publicly acknowledged his past steroid use in his 2005 autobiography and “60 Minutes” interview.
“Bill came out and admitted it,” McCaffrey said Tuesday. “You’d see Bill leave to go back to California, the Bay Area, and train out there for awhile, and come back 25 pounds of muscle heavier and you’re thinking…just doing the math, ‘that’s impossible’ to get that strong that quick. I would suspect it myself. I never did see him use anything illegal and he never offered it to me, and I was a teammate. But when someone leaves for a month and comes back 25 pounds of muscle heavier it just doesn’t make any sense. People that train every day as hard as they possibly can the right way know that that’s not possible.”
What matters most to McCaffrey when evaluating the impact steroids have on sports is the integrity of the game.
“Every athlete has the ability to make the right choice or to make the wrong choice. I never made any effort to go looking for (Performance-Enhancing Drugs) nor would I ever use them. I made that choice early in my career. But it does upset me because there are players (who use PEDs), not just who will go to the Hall of Fame or to the Pro Bowl or earn a starting spot, but even make a team over another guy. The reason guys like Mark McGwire are singled out is because they’re the ones who have had unbelievable success, but imagine the guy who uses them and gets to play 5 or 6 years in the league as opposed to not making a team. It affects everybody and cheating is cheating, and it ought to be penalized when it’s discovered.”
McCaffrey is quick to draw a distinction between his disdain for the decisions one makes to cheat, and not the person who makes them.
“There are some really nice guys who are great teammates who played hard, (but) break a rule. They should be penalized for breaking the rule. It doesn’t mean you have to hate them or that they’re a bad guy all the way around. They may be a good family guy, they may be a good Dad or husband, they may do a lot in the community. But when it comes to breaking the rules in your sport you have to be penalized appropriately.”
McCaffrey’s weekly radio show airs every Tuesday at 8:25 a.m. MT on Denver’s ESPN Radio 1600 AM.
--Paul Kirk/ProLink Sports
www.prolinksports.net
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook
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