BY SCOTT MORGANROTH
What are you doing with your forced free time?
As the owner of an online publication and a broadcasting network, I find this to be a time to scout other networks as they try to find content.
Since we do a lot of sports shows on The South Florida Tribune Broadcasting Network, Golic & Wingo, Get Up and First Take have provided ideas how to proceed with how I approach things.
At www.southfloridatribune.com, we’re fortunate to have 29 Media Distribution Partners along with regular writers to provide content.
As we continue to increase numbers, the model for any business is to make sure that they’re active on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
The only way these Social Media outlets don’t work is if you don’t aggressively work them. For many of us old school guys, the transition has been quite the learning curve. I miss the newspaper, television and radio days when these outlets took care of the promotion and production.
Welcome to 2020.
Who would have thought that the NFL would hold a Virtual Draft?
Did anyone expect a record 55 Million people to watch it on ABC, ESPN and ESPN 2?
Will the NFL will adopt some sort of Virtual Draft format in the future?
Time will tell.
Before the Pandemic started, I’ve never heard of Zoom. Now it’s going to be a wave of the future. I’ve used them for networking meetings and now it’s neat to catch up with family.
During this time, it seems like in the sports world, you wonder what sport will be cancelled or postponed.
How much money will be lost due to the pandemic?
While everyone has taken a hit in the pocketbook, have lost love ones because of COVID-19, plus the sad stories we hear on Social Media, the only thing we have to do is stick together. I’m currently dealing with a very seriously ill mother in Michigan that I can’t see because of the Stay Home Orders. I have a feeling that I may never see her alive. But I’m sure many of this are in the same boat.
Nonetheless, we have to challenge ourselves to make the best out of a tough situation. I know it’s easier said than done.
But let us hope that we can get back to our regular routines in the near future.
We can only hope that we never face this type of situation again and if we do, we’re better prepared to handle this in the future.
Meanwhile, Stay Safe. Stay Home. Do Social Distancing and Kudos to our first responders. These first responders are our heroes.
Showing posts with label Facebook. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Facebook. Show all posts
Thursday, April 30, 2020
Friday, August 23, 2019
What City Deserves MLB?
BY SCOTT MORGANROTH
PHOTO BY CANDICE EBLING
During the course of the baseball season, former Sports Exchange Contributor Rick Curti has been making a strong case on our show, and in Social Media, as to why his home area Charlotte, NC., deserves a Major League Baseball franchise.
My Co-Host Peter Wein and I have enjoyed giving Curti the platform to make his case.
Curti has been an excellent contributor to the show, plus has done a nice job writing stories for the South Florida Tribune.
Curti has been on this crusade for a long time.
He’s generated attention in the Carolinas by creating A Facebook Page, talking to local officials to promoting the Charlotte Bats. He's also been interviewed by the local media.
I came in contact with him last year on LinkedIn and Facebook.
We finally met in person in June in Charlotte, NC as I was on my way to the National Sports Media Association Convention in Winston Salem, NC.
I have admired Curti’s efforts to try to pull this off.
He’s made himself visible working for an Arena Football League lower level team called the Carolina Energy working in the PR Department.
His energy has been contagious as his enthusiasm is felt amongst those he’s around. You can never have enough visibility.
It’s no secret that the Tampa Bay Rays should be in the news for their impressive 75-54 record. If the playoffs started tomorrow, the franchise which is based out of St. Petersburg, FL., would reach them via the Wildcard.
This organization continues to remain competitive because of their emphasis on player development and keeping salaries down to a minimal.
They supplement the roster with affordable veteran castoffs from other teams. They have an outstanding young skipper in Kevin Cash, who has to pilot one of the lowest payrolls in baseball.
Yet, what impresses me the most, the Rays play in the toughest division in baseball with the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox thus have. Even the Toronto Blue Jays and Baltimore Orioles have the ability to spend lots of money on players.
Cash’s predecessor Joe Maddon won a World Championship with The Chicago Cubs with great young talent and had the resources to pay for star players a few years ago.
Yet, there is a chance by the end of this season, the question remains, will Maddon be retained as skipper at the end of the season if the Cubs fail to go deep into the postseason?
We’ll find out in a few short months.
But back to the Rays.
Here is a team which is trapped into a bad lease at Tropicana Field which runs through the 2027 season. No progress has been made on getting a new stadium in either Pinellas or Hillsborough Counties.
Ownership has even discussed the possibility about playing some games in the future in Montreal. Time will tell if this is even legally possible.
The Rays have reduced the capacity to 25,000 to avoid embarrassment of empty seats, thus Tropicana Field is the smallest MLB Ballpark.
The team is drawing fewer than 12,000 fans.
The team is being ridiculed in the National Media and the Tampa Bay Area has become a laughing stock that it can't support MLB.
When a club can't sell out in the post-season, there are problems.
But as we look ahead, what cities would be logical candidates to get a team either through expansion or relocation?
Sorry to burst your bubble Rick, but Charlotte wouldn't make my list!
Your best bet to watch MLB Baseball is to drive down I-85-South and travel four hours to see the Atlanta Braves.
As you know Mr. Curti, the AAA Charlotte Knights, a Chicago White Sox affiliate, have a beautiful stadium downtown and it's a hot ticket. Is the stadium expandable to house an MLB team or will another venue have to be built?
Speaking of the Rays, Durham, NC., is their AAA affiliate and there is an excellent baseball history in the area.
Montreal is at top of my list because this is one of Canada's largest cities and before the 1994 Baseball Strike doomed the area, the Expos were a sound franchise. As long as there is a new ballpark, I see the Expos rebirth.
Moreover, if the Rays move there, they'll be in the American League East which would be huge.
With the Yankees and Red Sox and rival Blue Jays, we have an NHL Division on the diamond. Need I say much about those cities rivals on frozen pond.
Las Vegas seems to be slowly shaking it's gambling reputation and is turning into a sports town.
The NHL's Vegas Golden Knights are entering their third season and have a great following.
The Oakland Raiders are arriving in 2020.
The Oakland A's have a AAA team in Las Vegas.
I see the market always being used as leverage if a team can't get a stadium build. It might be far fetched, but if the Oakland A's don't get a new stadium built, they could follow the Raiders. But don't hold your breath.
It appears that the City Of Oakland is working on a deal to get the A's a new stadium built and MLB wouldn't be excited to lose a Bay Area Market, though Las Vegas area is one of the fastest growing cites in the USA.
I could see Portland, OR., as a possibility because this would be a great rivalry for the Seattle Mariners. It's a small market, but because of the rain the area gets, a domed stadium or retractable roof would be necessary.
Finally, Nashville, TN., is a consideration.
The state has an NBA team in Memphis.
Nashville has the NHL's Predators and the NFL's Titans.
The only question is if their AAA Stadium could be expandable to accommodate an MLB team.
The area has a great history with the Nashville Sounds.
Despite a small media market, the Nashville area is growing in leaps and bounds.
The one constant throughout this story in the growth in potential markets.
Do these have sufficient stadiums to land a team? I doubt any city would spend any more money to build another stadium.
In the end Rick, lobby all you want for Charlotte and get all the publicity you can handle for your efforts. But in the end, the Carolinas aren't getting MLB!
You still have the NHL's Hurricanes in Raleigh, a sport you don't follow.
There is always NASCAR which is another sport you don't care about.
And of course, you have the NFL's Carolina Panthers and NBA's Hornets who are tight-fisted under NBA Hall Of Famer Michael Jordan.
But keep trying Rick. In life there is nothing wrong with dreaming.
I've been wrong before and if they get an MLB team, I would welcome the opportunity to do play-by-play broadcasting for your Charlotte Bats.
Scott Morganroth can be reached at www.scottsports33.com and is the CEO and Founder of The South Florida Tribune.
PHOTO BY CANDICE EBLING
During the course of the baseball season, former Sports Exchange Contributor Rick Curti has been making a strong case on our show, and in Social Media, as to why his home area Charlotte, NC., deserves a Major League Baseball franchise.
My Co-Host Peter Wein and I have enjoyed giving Curti the platform to make his case.
Curti has been an excellent contributor to the show, plus has done a nice job writing stories for the South Florida Tribune.
Curti has been on this crusade for a long time.
He’s generated attention in the Carolinas by creating A Facebook Page, talking to local officials to promoting the Charlotte Bats. He's also been interviewed by the local media.
I came in contact with him last year on LinkedIn and Facebook.
We finally met in person in June in Charlotte, NC as I was on my way to the National Sports Media Association Convention in Winston Salem, NC.
I have admired Curti’s efforts to try to pull this off.
He’s made himself visible working for an Arena Football League lower level team called the Carolina Energy working in the PR Department.
His energy has been contagious as his enthusiasm is felt amongst those he’s around. You can never have enough visibility.
It’s no secret that the Tampa Bay Rays should be in the news for their impressive 75-54 record. If the playoffs started tomorrow, the franchise which is based out of St. Petersburg, FL., would reach them via the Wildcard.
This organization continues to remain competitive because of their emphasis on player development and keeping salaries down to a minimal.They supplement the roster with affordable veteran castoffs from other teams. They have an outstanding young skipper in Kevin Cash, who has to pilot one of the lowest payrolls in baseball.
Yet, what impresses me the most, the Rays play in the toughest division in baseball with the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox thus have. Even the Toronto Blue Jays and Baltimore Orioles have the ability to spend lots of money on players.
Cash’s predecessor Joe Maddon won a World Championship with The Chicago Cubs with great young talent and had the resources to pay for star players a few years ago.
Yet, there is a chance by the end of this season, the question remains, will Maddon be retained as skipper at the end of the season if the Cubs fail to go deep into the postseason?
We’ll find out in a few short months.
But back to the Rays.
Here is a team which is trapped into a bad lease at Tropicana Field which runs through the 2027 season. No progress has been made on getting a new stadium in either Pinellas or Hillsborough Counties.
Ownership has even discussed the possibility about playing some games in the future in Montreal. Time will tell if this is even legally possible.
The Rays have reduced the capacity to 25,000 to avoid embarrassment of empty seats, thus Tropicana Field is the smallest MLB Ballpark.
The team is drawing fewer than 12,000 fans.
The team is being ridiculed in the National Media and the Tampa Bay Area has become a laughing stock that it can't support MLB.
When a club can't sell out in the post-season, there are problems.
But as we look ahead, what cities would be logical candidates to get a team either through expansion or relocation?
Sorry to burst your bubble Rick, but Charlotte wouldn't make my list!
Your best bet to watch MLB Baseball is to drive down I-85-South and travel four hours to see the Atlanta Braves.
As you know Mr. Curti, the AAA Charlotte Knights, a Chicago White Sox affiliate, have a beautiful stadium downtown and it's a hot ticket. Is the stadium expandable to house an MLB team or will another venue have to be built?
Speaking of the Rays, Durham, NC., is their AAA affiliate and there is an excellent baseball history in the area.
Montreal is at top of my list because this is one of Canada's largest cities and before the 1994 Baseball Strike doomed the area, the Expos were a sound franchise. As long as there is a new ballpark, I see the Expos rebirth.
Moreover, if the Rays move there, they'll be in the American League East which would be huge.
With the Yankees and Red Sox and rival Blue Jays, we have an NHL Division on the diamond. Need I say much about those cities rivals on frozen pond.
Las Vegas seems to be slowly shaking it's gambling reputation and is turning into a sports town.
The NHL's Vegas Golden Knights are entering their third season and have a great following.
The Oakland Raiders are arriving in 2020.
The Oakland A's have a AAA team in Las Vegas.
I see the market always being used as leverage if a team can't get a stadium build. It might be far fetched, but if the Oakland A's don't get a new stadium built, they could follow the Raiders. But don't hold your breath.
It appears that the City Of Oakland is working on a deal to get the A's a new stadium built and MLB wouldn't be excited to lose a Bay Area Market, though Las Vegas area is one of the fastest growing cites in the USA.
I could see Portland, OR., as a possibility because this would be a great rivalry for the Seattle Mariners. It's a small market, but because of the rain the area gets, a domed stadium or retractable roof would be necessary.
Finally, Nashville, TN., is a consideration.
The state has an NBA team in Memphis.
Nashville has the NHL's Predators and the NFL's Titans.
The only question is if their AAA Stadium could be expandable to accommodate an MLB team.
The area has a great history with the Nashville Sounds.
Despite a small media market, the Nashville area is growing in leaps and bounds.
The one constant throughout this story in the growth in potential markets.
Do these have sufficient stadiums to land a team? I doubt any city would spend any more money to build another stadium.
In the end Rick, lobby all you want for Charlotte and get all the publicity you can handle for your efforts. But in the end, the Carolinas aren't getting MLB!
You still have the NHL's Hurricanes in Raleigh, a sport you don't follow.
There is always NASCAR which is another sport you don't care about.
And of course, you have the NFL's Carolina Panthers and NBA's Hornets who are tight-fisted under NBA Hall Of Famer Michael Jordan.
But keep trying Rick. In life there is nothing wrong with dreaming.
I've been wrong before and if they get an MLB team, I would welcome the opportunity to do play-by-play broadcasting for your Charlotte Bats.
Scott Morganroth can be reached at www.scottsports33.com and is the CEO and Founder of The South Florida Tribune.
Saturday, May 4, 2019
Wild Bill Winters-Tribune Profile
BY SCOTT MORGANROTH
Sometimes fate works in mysterious ways.
This time it worked well in landing one of The Sports Exchange's Best Guests.
I got a Facebook Friend Request from Bill Winters and accepted it.
We started chatting and then we started talking on the phone.
I practically burned out my battery on the first conversation and enjoyed every minute of it.
The 64-year old offensive lineman was born in Asbury Park, NJ on July 22, 1954.
Winters had an interesting rise into Pro Football.
He's played in the NFL, CFL and the USFL.
His stops include the Washington Redskins, NY Giants, Montreal Alouettes, BC Lions, Tampa Bay Bandits, San Antonio Gunslingers and Portland Breakers.
With Montreal, Winters played in the 66th Grey Cup.
His Pro Football career spanned from 1976-1985
Winters was an undrafted free agent who played at Princeton in the Ivy League.
On Thursday's edition of The Sports Exchange on https://www.weinetwork.com/, I had one of my occasional rants.
I was furious that with all of the indigent announcers that are on network television,
why is Winters not on National TV?
Bill deserves to be on these broadcasts.
If I were a play-by-play announcer, Winters would be my color analyst!
My mouth when it comes to promoting makes me admire the work of Boxing Promoter Don King, who was brilliant when it came to talking about his fighters.
Nevertheless, from our standpoint, the local business guests that are in the studio rave about Winters Football knowledge.
My aspiring journalists are ecstatic when they can learn from Bill and are thrilled to be on the line with him asking questions.
In addition to his experience on the field, he has an eye when it comes to judging talent and more importantly, when he comes on the air, Winters is extremely prepared by doing his homework.
As I create the foundation for the Sports Exchange, I'm working diligently to find dependable experts in every sport.
Thus far, Winters has risen to the occasion and is willing to grow with us. He understands what he has to gain right now is exposure and I've guaranteed him, he'll get plenty of it!
When I need a guest on short notice, I generally turn to Winters. He also does his best to promote on social media.
If you're looking for an Old School Football Mind, Winters is it!
What I have created is an excellent friendship with him and I was adamant that if he's loyal to me, I expect to add him on all my media platforms.
The only thing left for Bill and I is the eventual face-to-face meeting as we'll take our fair share of photos together, talk football, future broadcasting plans and about life.
We'll continue to enjoy the ride we're going to have with each other for years to come.
Meanwhile, thanks to Social Media and in this case Facebook, this friendship is a blessing!
Scott Morganroth can be reached at Scottbm33@gmail.com.
Twitter: Scoop33333
Instagram: southfloridatribune
Sometimes fate works in mysterious ways.
This time it worked well in landing one of The Sports Exchange's Best Guests.I got a Facebook Friend Request from Bill Winters and accepted it.
We started chatting and then we started talking on the phone.
I practically burned out my battery on the first conversation and enjoyed every minute of it.
The 64-year old offensive lineman was born in Asbury Park, NJ on July 22, 1954.
Winters had an interesting rise into Pro Football.
He's played in the NFL, CFL and the USFL.
His stops include the Washington Redskins, NY Giants, Montreal Alouettes, BC Lions, Tampa Bay Bandits, San Antonio Gunslingers and Portland Breakers.
With Montreal, Winters played in the 66th Grey Cup.
His Pro Football career spanned from 1976-1985
Winters was an undrafted free agent who played at Princeton in the Ivy League.
On Thursday's edition of The Sports Exchange on https://www.weinetwork.com/, I had one of my occasional rants.
I was furious that with all of the indigent announcers that are on network television,
why is Winters not on National TV?Bill deserves to be on these broadcasts.
If I were a play-by-play announcer, Winters would be my color analyst!
My mouth when it comes to promoting makes me admire the work of Boxing Promoter Don King, who was brilliant when it came to talking about his fighters.
Nevertheless, from our standpoint, the local business guests that are in the studio rave about Winters Football knowledge.
My aspiring journalists are ecstatic when they can learn from Bill and are thrilled to be on the line with him asking questions.
In addition to his experience on the field, he has an eye when it comes to judging talent and more importantly, when he comes on the air, Winters is extremely prepared by doing his homework.
As I create the foundation for the Sports Exchange, I'm working diligently to find dependable experts in every sport.
Thus far, Winters has risen to the occasion and is willing to grow with us. He understands what he has to gain right now is exposure and I've guaranteed him, he'll get plenty of it!
When I need a guest on short notice, I generally turn to Winters. He also does his best to promote on social media.
If you're looking for an Old School Football Mind, Winters is it!
What I have created is an excellent friendship with him and I was adamant that if he's loyal to me, I expect to add him on all my media platforms.
The only thing left for Bill and I is the eventual face-to-face meeting as we'll take our fair share of photos together, talk football, future broadcasting plans and about life.
We'll continue to enjoy the ride we're going to have with each other for years to come.
Meanwhile, thanks to Social Media and in this case Facebook, this friendship is a blessing!
Scott Morganroth can be reached at Scottbm33@gmail.com.
Twitter: Scoop33333
Instagram: southfloridatribune
Friday, July 3, 2015
Views on NHL Coaching Moves
BY SCOTT MORGANROTH
Every successful coach in any sport deserves to maximize his income potential.
Therefore, I understood why former Red Wings Coach Mike Babcock took his intense personality across the border and accepted the challenge to rebuild the Toronto Maple Leafs.
It's pretty hard to turn down an eight year contract for $50 Million.
The Red Wings offered $20 Million for five years.
Can't blame a man for more than doubling his salary with another "Original Six Team."
Will money buy Babcock happiness? He's taking over a franchise which hasn't won a Stanley Cup since 1967 when there were only six teams in the NHL.
Former NHL Coach and current Hockey Night In Canada Analyst Don Cherry advised Babcock to stay in Detroit. Cherry had been through this before.
But Babcock decided to undertake this rebuilding process in his home country Canada. This week Toronto traded away its franchise player Phil Kessel to the Pittsburgh Penguins.
I do wish Babcock, 52, well except when he faces Detroit. My dealings with Babcock have been pleasant through the years. I look forward to seeing him when he visits the Florida Panthers in Sunrise.
Bobcock's regular season mark with Detroit was 458-223-105 for a .649 winning percentage. He made the playoffs in all 10 seasons with the Red Wings and won a Stanley Cup in 2007-2008. He reached the Stanley Cup Finals the following season. Detroit has made the playoffs 24-consecutive seasons.
I know this was a gut wrenching decision for Babcock to leave Detroit, but to his credit, it was classy that he had a Farewell Press Conference with the Detroit Media and left a Class Act.
The day before his Final Press Conference with the Detroit Media, Babcock called Toronto, "Canada's Team." Toronto is the wealthiest franchise in Canada.
I hope for Babcock's sake that the organization, run by former Red Wing Brendan Shanahan, gives him enough time and provides him the players to be successful. Otherwise, it will be a long eight years for a guy that hates losing.
The best example of this is former New York Yankees Manager Casey Stengel. In 12 years with the Yankees, Stengel was 1149-696 and won seven World Series titles for the Bronx Bombers.
In 1962, Stengel became the pilot of the Expansion New York Mets. In 3.5 seasons, Stengel 175-404 after the losing wore him out.
We'll see how much this wears on Babcock and see his his red hair turns grey. The guy is only four months younger than myself, having been born on April 29, 1963, and is eligible for AARP.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Red Wings GM Ken Holland is not only the smartest person an organization can have, but the most loyal. He's already made a couple solid moves in free agency.
When Babcock departed, Holland knew his successor was a two hour drive on I-96 in Grand Rapids.
Ken obviously felt Jeff Blashill could transition well to Detroit, otherwise he wouldn't have torn up his old contract then doubled so Blashill wouldn't talk to other teams.
In six seasons as a head coach, Blashill has never had a losing record. He won a Calder Cup with the Grand Rapids Griffins 2012-2013.
In his six-year coaching career, Blashill is 225-127-10-28.
He's shown loyalty to Holland and deserves this opportunity. Plus, he's worked and developed many of the current Red Wings. Needless to say it should be a seamless transition.
It was interesting that as I watched Holland's press conference of Blashill's hiring that Ken indicated this was the worst kept secret.
We'll see if this leads Detroit to the post-season for a 25th straight year.
Before the Blashill hiring, I posted a comment on Facebook that Detroit should consider hiring Dan Bylsma, a Grand Haven, MI native. Bylsma's Pittsburgh Penguins defeated Mike Babcock's Red Wings to win the 2008-2009 Stanley Cup.
But the Buffalo Sabres, who made an aggressive attempt to hire Babcock, snapped up Bylsma, thus there were no other candidates that made sense to me.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
There seems to be a New Trend in hiring a head coach in the NHL that I've noticed.
Instead of hiring recycled-experienced coaches, teams are starting to give younger coaches an opportunity.
The Tampa Bay Lightning hit a home run with Jon Cooper. The 47-year old Prince George, BC, CA native has compiled a 101-59-20 mark in three seasons. Cooper defeated three "Original Six Teams" to reach the Stanley Cup Finals, only to fall to the Chicago Blackhawks.
Prior to coming to the Lightning, Cooper won championships with the St. Louis Bandits, Green Bay Gamblers and won a 2011-2012 Calder Cup for Tampa's AHL affiliate, the Norfolk Admirals.
The Philadelphia Flyers went to college and found their new coach, Dave Hakstol, 46, from the University of North Dakota. In 11 seasons with North Dakota, Hakstol was 289-141-43 and his team reached the Frozen Four seven times. Hakstol is photographed.
Hakstol is the first head coach to go directly from the NCAA to the NHL since 1982 (Bob Johnson from the University of Wisconsin to the Calgary Flames).
On June 2, 2015, the New Jersey Devils hired John Hynes, 40, to be their next head coach.
Hynes is the youngest coach in the NHL.
Prior to joining the Devils, Hynes coached for the Pittsburgh Penguins AHL affiliate the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins for the past five seasons, making the playoffs each year. He reached the conference finals twice.
Hynes was the AHL's Coach Of The Year in 2010-2011.
I'll be curious to see how all of these coaches due in the 2015-2016 Season.
Scott Morganroth can be reached at www.scottsports33.com and is a long-time member of The Detroit Sports Broadcasters Association.
Every successful coach in any sport deserves to maximize his income potential.
Therefore, I understood why former Red Wings Coach Mike Babcock took his intense personality across the border and accepted the challenge to rebuild the Toronto Maple Leafs.
It's pretty hard to turn down an eight year contract for $50 Million.
The Red Wings offered $20 Million for five years.
Can't blame a man for more than doubling his salary with another "Original Six Team."
Will money buy Babcock happiness? He's taking over a franchise which hasn't won a Stanley Cup since 1967 when there were only six teams in the NHL.
Former NHL Coach and current Hockey Night In Canada Analyst Don Cherry advised Babcock to stay in Detroit. Cherry had been through this before.
But Babcock decided to undertake this rebuilding process in his home country Canada. This week Toronto traded away its franchise player Phil Kessel to the Pittsburgh Penguins.
I do wish Babcock, 52, well except when he faces Detroit. My dealings with Babcock have been pleasant through the years. I look forward to seeing him when he visits the Florida Panthers in Sunrise.Bobcock's regular season mark with Detroit was 458-223-105 for a .649 winning percentage. He made the playoffs in all 10 seasons with the Red Wings and won a Stanley Cup in 2007-2008. He reached the Stanley Cup Finals the following season. Detroit has made the playoffs 24-consecutive seasons.
I know this was a gut wrenching decision for Babcock to leave Detroit, but to his credit, it was classy that he had a Farewell Press Conference with the Detroit Media and left a Class Act.
The day before his Final Press Conference with the Detroit Media, Babcock called Toronto, "Canada's Team." Toronto is the wealthiest franchise in Canada.
I hope for Babcock's sake that the organization, run by former Red Wing Brendan Shanahan, gives him enough time and provides him the players to be successful. Otherwise, it will be a long eight years for a guy that hates losing.
The best example of this is former New York Yankees Manager Casey Stengel. In 12 years with the Yankees, Stengel was 1149-696 and won seven World Series titles for the Bronx Bombers.
In 1962, Stengel became the pilot of the Expansion New York Mets. In 3.5 seasons, Stengel 175-404 after the losing wore him out.
We'll see how much this wears on Babcock and see his his red hair turns grey. The guy is only four months younger than myself, having been born on April 29, 1963, and is eligible for AARP.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Red Wings GM Ken Holland is not only the smartest person an organization can have, but the most loyal. He's already made a couple solid moves in free agency.
When Babcock departed, Holland knew his successor was a two hour drive on I-96 in Grand Rapids.
Ken obviously felt Jeff Blashill could transition well to Detroit, otherwise he wouldn't have torn up his old contract then doubled so Blashill wouldn't talk to other teams.
In six seasons as a head coach, Blashill has never had a losing record. He won a Calder Cup with the Grand Rapids Griffins 2012-2013.
In his six-year coaching career, Blashill is 225-127-10-28.
He's shown loyalty to Holland and deserves this opportunity. Plus, he's worked and developed many of the current Red Wings. Needless to say it should be a seamless transition.
It was interesting that as I watched Holland's press conference of Blashill's hiring that Ken indicated this was the worst kept secret.
We'll see if this leads Detroit to the post-season for a 25th straight year.
Before the Blashill hiring, I posted a comment on Facebook that Detroit should consider hiring Dan Bylsma, a Grand Haven, MI native. Bylsma's Pittsburgh Penguins defeated Mike Babcock's Red Wings to win the 2008-2009 Stanley Cup.
But the Buffalo Sabres, who made an aggressive attempt to hire Babcock, snapped up Bylsma, thus there were no other candidates that made sense to me.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
There seems to be a New Trend in hiring a head coach in the NHL that I've noticed.
Instead of hiring recycled-experienced coaches, teams are starting to give younger coaches an opportunity.
The Tampa Bay Lightning hit a home run with Jon Cooper. The 47-year old Prince George, BC, CA native has compiled a 101-59-20 mark in three seasons. Cooper defeated three "Original Six Teams" to reach the Stanley Cup Finals, only to fall to the Chicago Blackhawks.
Prior to coming to the Lightning, Cooper won championships with the St. Louis Bandits, Green Bay Gamblers and won a 2011-2012 Calder Cup for Tampa's AHL affiliate, the Norfolk Admirals.The Philadelphia Flyers went to college and found their new coach, Dave Hakstol, 46, from the University of North Dakota. In 11 seasons with North Dakota, Hakstol was 289-141-43 and his team reached the Frozen Four seven times. Hakstol is photographed.
Hakstol is the first head coach to go directly from the NCAA to the NHL since 1982 (Bob Johnson from the University of Wisconsin to the Calgary Flames).
On June 2, 2015, the New Jersey Devils hired John Hynes, 40, to be their next head coach.
Hynes is the youngest coach in the NHL.
Prior to joining the Devils, Hynes coached for the Pittsburgh Penguins AHL affiliate the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins for the past five seasons, making the playoffs each year. He reached the conference finals twice.
Hynes was the AHL's Coach Of The Year in 2010-2011.
I'll be curious to see how all of these coaches due in the 2015-2016 Season.
Scott Morganroth can be reached at www.scottsports33.com and is a long-time member of The Detroit Sports Broadcasters Association.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
A Tremendous Ride!
BY SCOTT MORGANROTH
There is only one reason why I am covering FAU Football.
To have the opportunity to be reunited from our Miami Hurricanes days in 1982 and 1983 with Howard Schnellenberger was something I couldn't pass up when former Deerfield Beach Observer Editor Ric Green gave me this opportunity in August of 2007.
Green made the commitment for me to write once a week and at the beginning there were weekly coaches conference calls on Sunday Nights.
Due to the economy, unfortunately, my column appears once a month, but I'm still thankful that the newspaper never gave up on the vision of Green and Myself. I wish I could do more but this ride has lasted a GREAT four years.
I've met some incredible people and have enjoyed my association with Sports Information Director Katrina McCormack, her assistant Justin Johnson along with Athletic Director Craig Angelos and former President Frank T Brogan.
During the past two weeks, it's been tough to watch Schnellenberger's Owls lose consecutive home Sun Belt Conference Games and not be competitive in opening their new on-campus stadium. Western Kentucky blanked FAU 20-0 in the opener on Oct 15 and a week later Middle Tennessee hammered FAU 38-14.
Before the Western Kentucky contest, a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Statue Unveiling of Schnellenberger commemorated the culmination of events that led to shirts which read "The House That Howard Built."
We all know that without Schnellenberger, nobody would know about Florida Atlantic University nationally. He put the university on the map. The new on-campus stadium has led to an increase of admissions plus the national television exposure has been priceless.
I'm so proud of Schnellenberger that on My Facebook Page, My main photo is with the two of us together in his office. It will remain there for as long as I am a member of Facebook.
When Schnellenberger announced that his 52-year coaching career would end at the completion of the 2011, I was happy for a three reasons.
1) He was leaving on his own terms and while he knew he wouldn't win a National Championship with FAU, what better way to go out on top than coach in the stadium that your efforts, visions and dreams made a reality!
The statue of Schnellenberger was just the beginning of more honors that he'll receive in the future. I predict that a road will be named after him as well as the field at the new stadium.
2) He should be able to enjoy everything he's accomplished with his wife Beverlee and the rest of his family.
3) I'm happy for myself because I was able to stay on the beat until he retired. I've learned so much from coach the past four years and he's been a father figure to me as well. Despite my serious back injuries, he made sure I was comfortable while I was doing my job. He always gave me advice when I needed it. He's the most accessible coach I've ever worked with in 32-years in Sports Media.
As I watch Schnellenberger go through a tough season just trying to get a win, he still does a nice job trying to find solutions to his teams struggles.
These days, I can relate to the adversity he's facing.
During the past two months, I've had to take a hiatus from writing. I am facing some major decisions about My future in South Florida after 10 years in the area. I plan to seek a professional opinion within 60 days.
While I've enjoyed my time in the area and moved here from Chandler, AZ., to be closer to my parents, a fresh start is inevitable. My time here in town has been rough for many reasons as I realize that there is more to South Florida than it's Sunshine and Beautiful Beaches.
I hope to make a final decision at the end of 2011 or the beginning of 2012.
My goal now is to enjoy the Final three home games at FAU Stadium, cover another Shula Bowl in Miami against FIU in November as well as an All-Star Game at FAU Stadium in January with My Favorite Coach of All-Time.
So for Coach Schnellenberger and I, there are at least five games left in "Our Reunion."
His Final FAU Home Game will be on Dec 3rd against Louisiana Monroe at 4 PM.
I know by then, Angelos will have his successor in place. That successor will inherit a program that has a New Orleans and Motor City Bowl victory along with a beautiful stadium that's expandable to 65,000.
But what a ride it's going to be until December 3rd. The All-Star Game in January will see Schnellenberger against former Florida State Coach Bobby Bowden, who was forced out by the Seminoles, and replaced by Jimbo Fisher a year ahead of schedule. This game will be icing on the cake.
While I haven't written my final swan song covering FAU Football yet, at least I know that I have fulfilled a prophecy, and like Schnellenberger, I'm going to cherish every moment until the end.
To be a part of the Opening of a New Stadium after working at Lockhart Stadium in Fort Lauderdale was real special.
There is no statistic or number that describes how much fun I've had the past four years. It's been A Tremendous Ride!
Should I see FAU Stadium on TV in the future, it will be an extremely proud feeling to know I was there when it opened after all the hard work it took to make it happen.
More importantly, Coach and I can look forward to fresh starts in 2012.
Hopefully, a season finale win on Dec 3rd will be a great way to end 2011.
Even if FAU were to finish 0-12, the record doesn't matter because the foundation is in place for great things to come in future years to come. The new coach will continue the next era of FAU Football That The Father of the Program Schnellenberger built from scratch.
I've always lived by the philosophy "To live everyday as if it were your last."
When my days are over, those special family members who have died will definitely be informed of my great memories with Coach Schnellenberger culminating in his Mini Palace of Boca Raton.
I will be very proud when I mention the great memories, in addition to opening up this new stadium, to go along with past sports highlights that include that include covering four Super Bowls and the closing of Detroit Tiger Stadium in 1999.
Scott Morganroth can be reached at scottsports33@aol.com and his blog can be seen at www.scottsports33.com.
There is only one reason why I am covering FAU Football.
To have the opportunity to be reunited from our Miami Hurricanes days in 1982 and 1983 with Howard Schnellenberger was something I couldn't pass up when former Deerfield Beach Observer Editor Ric Green gave me this opportunity in August of 2007.
Green made the commitment for me to write once a week and at the beginning there were weekly coaches conference calls on Sunday Nights.
Due to the economy, unfortunately, my column appears once a month, but I'm still thankful that the newspaper never gave up on the vision of Green and Myself. I wish I could do more but this ride has lasted a GREAT four years.
I've met some incredible people and have enjoyed my association with Sports Information Director Katrina McCormack, her assistant Justin Johnson along with Athletic Director Craig Angelos and former President Frank T Brogan.
During the past two weeks, it's been tough to watch Schnellenberger's Owls lose consecutive home Sun Belt Conference Games and not be competitive in opening their new on-campus stadium. Western Kentucky blanked FAU 20-0 in the opener on Oct 15 and a week later Middle Tennessee hammered FAU 38-14.
Before the Western Kentucky contest, a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Statue Unveiling of Schnellenberger commemorated the culmination of events that led to shirts which read "The House That Howard Built."
We all know that without Schnellenberger, nobody would know about Florida Atlantic University nationally. He put the university on the map. The new on-campus stadium has led to an increase of admissions plus the national television exposure has been priceless.
I'm so proud of Schnellenberger that on My Facebook Page, My main photo is with the two of us together in his office. It will remain there for as long as I am a member of Facebook.
When Schnellenberger announced that his 52-year coaching career would end at the completion of the 2011, I was happy for a three reasons.
1) He was leaving on his own terms and while he knew he wouldn't win a National Championship with FAU, what better way to go out on top than coach in the stadium that your efforts, visions and dreams made a reality!
The statue of Schnellenberger was just the beginning of more honors that he'll receive in the future. I predict that a road will be named after him as well as the field at the new stadium.
2) He should be able to enjoy everything he's accomplished with his wife Beverlee and the rest of his family.
3) I'm happy for myself because I was able to stay on the beat until he retired. I've learned so much from coach the past four years and he's been a father figure to me as well. Despite my serious back injuries, he made sure I was comfortable while I was doing my job. He always gave me advice when I needed it. He's the most accessible coach I've ever worked with in 32-years in Sports Media.
As I watch Schnellenberger go through a tough season just trying to get a win, he still does a nice job trying to find solutions to his teams struggles.
These days, I can relate to the adversity he's facing.
During the past two months, I've had to take a hiatus from writing. I am facing some major decisions about My future in South Florida after 10 years in the area. I plan to seek a professional opinion within 60 days.
While I've enjoyed my time in the area and moved here from Chandler, AZ., to be closer to my parents, a fresh start is inevitable. My time here in town has been rough for many reasons as I realize that there is more to South Florida than it's Sunshine and Beautiful Beaches.
I hope to make a final decision at the end of 2011 or the beginning of 2012.
My goal now is to enjoy the Final three home games at FAU Stadium, cover another Shula Bowl in Miami against FIU in November as well as an All-Star Game at FAU Stadium in January with My Favorite Coach of All-Time.
So for Coach Schnellenberger and I, there are at least five games left in "Our Reunion."
His Final FAU Home Game will be on Dec 3rd against Louisiana Monroe at 4 PM.
I know by then, Angelos will have his successor in place. That successor will inherit a program that has a New Orleans and Motor City Bowl victory along with a beautiful stadium that's expandable to 65,000.
But what a ride it's going to be until December 3rd. The All-Star Game in January will see Schnellenberger against former Florida State Coach Bobby Bowden, who was forced out by the Seminoles, and replaced by Jimbo Fisher a year ahead of schedule. This game will be icing on the cake.
While I haven't written my final swan song covering FAU Football yet, at least I know that I have fulfilled a prophecy, and like Schnellenberger, I'm going to cherish every moment until the end.
To be a part of the Opening of a New Stadium after working at Lockhart Stadium in Fort Lauderdale was real special.
There is no statistic or number that describes how much fun I've had the past four years. It's been A Tremendous Ride!
Should I see FAU Stadium on TV in the future, it will be an extremely proud feeling to know I was there when it opened after all the hard work it took to make it happen.
More importantly, Coach and I can look forward to fresh starts in 2012.
Hopefully, a season finale win on Dec 3rd will be a great way to end 2011.
Even if FAU were to finish 0-12, the record doesn't matter because the foundation is in place for great things to come in future years to come. The new coach will continue the next era of FAU Football That The Father of the Program Schnellenberger built from scratch.
I've always lived by the philosophy "To live everyday as if it were your last."
When my days are over, those special family members who have died will definitely be informed of my great memories with Coach Schnellenberger culminating in his Mini Palace of Boca Raton.
I will be very proud when I mention the great memories, in addition to opening up this new stadium, to go along with past sports highlights that include that include covering four Super Bowls and the closing of Detroit Tiger Stadium in 1999.
Scott Morganroth can be reached at scottsports33@aol.com and his blog can be seen at www.scottsports33.com.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
NHL Border Wars
BY SCOTT MORGANROTH
The Borders Wars in hockey are getting hot and heavy as Canada has a chance to jam it to the United States twice in the month of June.
Should the Vancouver Canucks defeat the Boston Bruins in the Stanley Cup Finals, it will be the first championship for a Canadian based team since the Montreal Canadiens defeated the Los Angeles Kings in 1993.
The City of Winnipeg, Manitoba., failed in its efforts to get back the Phoenix Coyotes, who were formerly the Jets, but NHL Hockey will be played in their new MTS Arena (15,015) and I'll bet this will be an Expensive Ticket.
While NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has fought hard to keep teams from moving out of Major USA Cities, there was no way he could stop this one from happening.
The Atlanta Spirit claimed that they have lost $130 million and the team ranked 28th in attendance drawing less than 14,000 fans a game. There was no serious local owner that came forward to keep the team in Georgia.
So who are the winners in this decision and will Winnipeg see a Stanley Cup Championship anytime soon?
Now that Bettman has seen his league lose the Atlanta Metro Area of more than 5 Million, plus a large TV Market, to a city with a population of less than 700,000, the only gain is the $60 Million relocation fee which gets split for the rest of the teams.
The Thrashers were sold for $110 Million and the only time you'll see them on NBC is during the Stanley Cup Finals.
But I have to admit that history works well for the new Winnipeg team. Five of the last six teams that relocated did eventually win Stanley Cup Championships in their new homes.
Ironically, the first team that won a title was when the Atlanta Flames moved to Calgary in 1980-81 and celebrated their title in Canada. You can bet after two failed attempts at NHL Hockey, Atlanta won't ever get a third chance!
In 1981-82, the Colorado Rockies became the New Jersey Devils and this franchise has won multiple titles.
In 1993-94, the Minnesota North Stars moved to Dallas and the Stars won the championship. The Stars were the second major sports team to win a championship in what is known as Dallas Cowboys territory.
In 1995-96, the Quebec Nordiques moved to Colorado and Denver made the most of its second chance as the Avalanche took over a football town and led by goaltender Patrick Roy, then won two Stanley Cup titles. The Avalanche won their first in 1996 before legendary Broncos Quarterback John Elway won his first Super Bowl.
Finally, the Hartford Whalers departed Connecticut in 1997-98 and the Carolina Hurricanes would give their region their first major league sports championship by hoisting the Stanley Cup in 2006 when they defeated the tradition rich Edmonton Oilers.
While there will be no realignment next season, there is talk that Winnipeg is headed to the Western Conference in two years. The likely teams that could headed to the Eastern Conference are the Nashville Predators, Columbus Blue Jackets or the Detroit Red Wings.
The Detroit Red Wings want to join their Original Six rivals the Boston Bruins, Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs and New York Rangers because it would be less demanding with their travel schedule in the regular and post-seasons.
For some reason, I have a feeling they will get shafted because there are too many Red and White Winged Wheel Jersey's in California, Arizona, Texas and Tennessee. The NHL will want to keep one Original Six rivalry intact when these two I-94 squads meet.
While I'm glad that the folks in Phoenix won't have Winnipeg hanging over their heads, unless the Coyotes solidify their ownership situation, markets like Kansas City which has a new arena without a winter tenant, Las Vegas and if Seattle ever builds a first class facility could be future NHL homes.
Bettman has worked diligently to keep NHL Hockey in Phoenix but even Morris only had Nine Lives.
As I wished My Friend Bettman a Happy Birthday on Facebook, I wonder if his cake had a sour taste to it because of the failed Atlanta debacle.
Losing Big Markets is a tough pill to swallow but he knows his hands were tied.
But for future Canadian markets like Hamilton, Ontario, Quebec City and others that may emerge, he won't be an easy sell the next time North of the Border.
The only way I could see Canada adding another team is if Toronto gets a second one.
I wouldn't be surprised if he's watching other cities struggle so he can find a reason to move them to the USA to make up for Atlanta's loss.
But for now, the fans of Winnipeg can be pleased that the past moves have turned out to be Greener Pastures.
According to an ESPN SportsNation Poll that had 18,606 voters, there were 79% that said the move was going to be a success while 21% said it wasn't going to work out. You can rest assure that the diehard Atlanta Thrashers fans contrubuted to that 21%.
As for Atlanta, I've never thought highly of that area as a SportsTown and now that it has been reduced to three major sports teams, the Hawks now own the winter sports market. Good Riddance to Atlanta on the Frozen Pond.
Scott Morganroth can be reached at scottsports33@aol.com and his blog can be seen at http://www.scottsports33.com/.
The Borders Wars in hockey are getting hot and heavy as Canada has a chance to jam it to the United States twice in the month of June.
Should the Vancouver Canucks defeat the Boston Bruins in the Stanley Cup Finals, it will be the first championship for a Canadian based team since the Montreal Canadiens defeated the Los Angeles Kings in 1993.
The City of Winnipeg, Manitoba., failed in its efforts to get back the Phoenix Coyotes, who were formerly the Jets, but NHL Hockey will be played in their new MTS Arena (15,015) and I'll bet this will be an Expensive Ticket.
While NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has fought hard to keep teams from moving out of Major USA Cities, there was no way he could stop this one from happening.
The Atlanta Spirit claimed that they have lost $130 million and the team ranked 28th in attendance drawing less than 14,000 fans a game. There was no serious local owner that came forward to keep the team in Georgia.
So who are the winners in this decision and will Winnipeg see a Stanley Cup Championship anytime soon?
Now that Bettman has seen his league lose the Atlanta Metro Area of more than 5 Million, plus a large TV Market, to a city with a population of less than 700,000, the only gain is the $60 Million relocation fee which gets split for the rest of the teams.
The Thrashers were sold for $110 Million and the only time you'll see them on NBC is during the Stanley Cup Finals.
But I have to admit that history works well for the new Winnipeg team. Five of the last six teams that relocated did eventually win Stanley Cup Championships in their new homes.
Ironically, the first team that won a title was when the Atlanta Flames moved to Calgary in 1980-81 and celebrated their title in Canada. You can bet after two failed attempts at NHL Hockey, Atlanta won't ever get a third chance!
In 1981-82, the Colorado Rockies became the New Jersey Devils and this franchise has won multiple titles.
In 1993-94, the Minnesota North Stars moved to Dallas and the Stars won the championship. The Stars were the second major sports team to win a championship in what is known as Dallas Cowboys territory.
In 1995-96, the Quebec Nordiques moved to Colorado and Denver made the most of its second chance as the Avalanche took over a football town and led by goaltender Patrick Roy, then won two Stanley Cup titles. The Avalanche won their first in 1996 before legendary Broncos Quarterback John Elway won his first Super Bowl.
Finally, the Hartford Whalers departed Connecticut in 1997-98 and the Carolina Hurricanes would give their region their first major league sports championship by hoisting the Stanley Cup in 2006 when they defeated the tradition rich Edmonton Oilers.
While there will be no realignment next season, there is talk that Winnipeg is headed to the Western Conference in two years. The likely teams that could headed to the Eastern Conference are the Nashville Predators, Columbus Blue Jackets or the Detroit Red Wings.
The Detroit Red Wings want to join their Original Six rivals the Boston Bruins, Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs and New York Rangers because it would be less demanding with their travel schedule in the regular and post-seasons.
For some reason, I have a feeling they will get shafted because there are too many Red and White Winged Wheel Jersey's in California, Arizona, Texas and Tennessee. The NHL will want to keep one Original Six rivalry intact when these two I-94 squads meet.
While I'm glad that the folks in Phoenix won't have Winnipeg hanging over their heads, unless the Coyotes solidify their ownership situation, markets like Kansas City which has a new arena without a winter tenant, Las Vegas and if Seattle ever builds a first class facility could be future NHL homes.
Bettman has worked diligently to keep NHL Hockey in Phoenix but even Morris only had Nine Lives.
As I wished My Friend Bettman a Happy Birthday on Facebook, I wonder if his cake had a sour taste to it because of the failed Atlanta debacle.
Losing Big Markets is a tough pill to swallow but he knows his hands were tied.
But for future Canadian markets like Hamilton, Ontario, Quebec City and others that may emerge, he won't be an easy sell the next time North of the Border.
The only way I could see Canada adding another team is if Toronto gets a second one.
I wouldn't be surprised if he's watching other cities struggle so he can find a reason to move them to the USA to make up for Atlanta's loss.
But for now, the fans of Winnipeg can be pleased that the past moves have turned out to be Greener Pastures.
According to an ESPN SportsNation Poll that had 18,606 voters, there were 79% that said the move was going to be a success while 21% said it wasn't going to work out. You can rest assure that the diehard Atlanta Thrashers fans contrubuted to that 21%.
As for Atlanta, I've never thought highly of that area as a SportsTown and now that it has been reduced to three major sports teams, the Hawks now own the winter sports market. Good Riddance to Atlanta on the Frozen Pond.
Scott Morganroth can be reached at scottsports33@aol.com and his blog can be seen at http://www.scottsports33.com/.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Auto Racing VS NFL Football
BY SCOTT MORGANROTH
How many of these NASCAR drivers were alive when I went to McIntyre Elementary School in 1975? I doubt very many.
I've never been more amazed at a Social Network site as I have been with Facebook because it has indeed allowed me to track many old friends, baseball buddy's and reflect on those formative days in grade school. Indeed time flies especially when these people and I were adding each other to our friend's list. Seeing what profession they landed in, whose married and who relocated out of Michigan has made the process that much more incredible. I won't get into the ladies that I had a crush on in those days because that will be for another day.
Nevertheless, during a recent blog, I voiced my displeasure about NASCAR having its Super Bowl as it's opening race.
As for other subjects, if I had the choice to win the Indianapolis 500 or Daytona 500, that would be a no-brainer and I would drink the Milk at Indy. As we've seen so far, young Danica Patrick is getting humbled now by the learning curve of NASCAR but in the end by racing in this circuit, the challenge of competing with the best drivers will keep her interested for a long time. As for what sport is more demanding, I'd give the slight edge to the NFL because of the physical toll the sport takes on a player. But believe me, this is a slight edge because the drivers could be killed with one slight mishap. Finally, while it would be too easy to predict Jimmy Johnson to win his fifth straight championship, I'll step out of the box and add Tony Stewart & Jeff Gordon to the discussion. They're past champions that simply know how to race.
When I attended McIntyre Elementary School, it had a Green Roof. Now it's Tan. But I recently caught up with Matt Maylen thanks to Facebook after the Super Bowl and he also had thoughts about NASCAR & the NFL.
1) What are your thoughts of NASCAR Holding it's Super Bowl the first week of the season?
1) What are your thoughts of NASCAR Holding it's Super Bowl the first week of the season?
I think that the Daytona 500 is so special because everyone is tied with zero points. Unlike most team sports, in NASCAR, 43 teams square off each week against each other, not just two. The race teams have worked hard all winter and expectations are high for each one of them. By the time the last race of the season comes around, the championship has often been decided.
2 )If you had the choice to win at Indianapolis or Daytona Beach, which checkered flag would mean more?
I'm quite certain that if you asked that question to any driver in the sport, the answer would be Daytona without a doubt.
3) How well do you think Danica Patrick will do during her 13 races in NASCAR and eventually if she joins the circuit full-time?
As is the case with most rookie drivers, I think she just needs to log in as many laps as she can, gain some experience and keep expectations realistic. From what I've gathered so far, she seems to know her way around a race car pretty well. Getting around some of the Cup circuit tracks may prove to be a different story altogether. She has some great sponsorship in GoDaddy.com and scoring a top ten or two could certainly help her land a full time ride in 2011. All and all, I think she could be a good thing for a sport that has been slumping for the past 2 or 3 years.
4) What sport is more demanding, the NFL or NASCAR?
With training camp, the pre-season and a grueling 16 game schedule, I think the NFL is by far more physically demanding. Having said that, I think that NASCAR is more mentally demanding. I've driven these cars, it's not easy, there are no time outs, no half time breaks and no play clock . When they take the Green Flag, they must focus 100 % on the task at hand, and that can be very demanding .
5) Finally, who do you think will win the NASCAR Points Championship in November? Give me your top two drivers.
Scott Morganroth's blog can be seen at www.scottsports33.com and he can be reached at scottsports33@aol.com.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Joe Robbie Stadium
BY SCOTT MORGANROTH
When a fan on Facebook suggested that the Miami Dolphins current home of Land Shark Stadium return to its old name "Joe Robbie Stadium," I quickly posted my comments and definitely agreed. I accepted two friend requests for taking such a stance.
The former late owner of the Dolphins privately financed the stadium on what was called the Lake LuCerne site by using a lot of his own money to get his team out of the aging Orange Bowl.
When I was working for the now defunct Hallandale Digest, Robbie and I talked about the subject regularly when he owned the Ft. Lauderdale Strikers. He was so shrewd that at the time, NFL Commissioner Pete Rozelle prohibited cross sports ownership therefore he put the North American Soccer League's team in his wife Elizabeth's name, but Mr. Robbie was calling the shots. Now cross ownership is common in all sports.
Robbie told me that he didn't care if he went in debt because in life we're always going to be in debt. In this current economy, he's totally correct.
But more importantly, Robbie told me that he despised the Orange Bowl and called it a "Museum" and even had offers to move the team to Orlando where it would play in the Tangerine Bowl. He turned them down because he was determined to keep the team in South Florida.
He chose not to take the Art Modell route and move the Cleveland Browns to Baltimore, or Tennessee Titans Owner Bud Adams, who relocated the Houston Oilers to Nashville. Holding a city hostage like other owners have to build a new stadium and threatening to move the team was not Robbie's style.
The stadium Robbie built has had different names.
It's been called Joe Robbie Stadium, Pro-Player Stadium, Dolphin Stadium and now Land Shark Stadium. I didn't mind the Pro-Player Stadium because it had an athletic identity. Dolphin Stadium was a natural fit.
In this day where commercialism does pay revenue for sponsorships and enhance a team's revenue, it's still gratifying to see some teams pass on that additional revenue and maintain the integrity of attending the venue.
I'd find it hard to watch a baseball game in Los Angeles with Dodger Stadium being called something else. Dodger Stadium was one of the first stadiums to ever be privately financed.
I'm glad that when I attend a Detroit Red Wings game that this facility remains Joe Louis Arena.
Louis was a proud sports hero in Detroit and the former heavyweight champion made this city proud with his success by giving Americans a reason to watch Boxing during his era.
The Red Wings four recent Stanley Cup championships have only added to the luster of a proud "Original Six Franchise" playing under the roof of Louis, giving this a major championship feeling.
A few years ago, I had a chance to pay tribute to Louis when I visited Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.
Approximately 45 minutes north depending on traffic and weather on I-75, late Detroit Pistons Owner Bill Davidson probably had many offers to rename "The Palace of Auburn Hills." But his privately financed venue's name remains the same.
Ironically, Davidson once told me at a Pistons game that he used Joe Robbie's model with luxury suites and amenities as a guideline to build his own arena. Now all new sports stadiums around the country have followed the lead of these two shrewd pioneers who were way ahead of their time.
Could you imagine Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, Lambeau Field, Arrowhead Stadium, The Rose Bowl, Rupp Arena, Michigan Stadium, Madison Square Garden, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Ralph Wilson Stadium in Buffalo and the New Orleans Superdome being named anything else?
The Detroit Lions find themselves in an unusual situation because Ford Motor Company is commercial, yet the name of the corporation is still a family name with the venue being called Ford Field.
So as a tribute to my friends at Facebook and to a pair of owners that I enjoyed working with, referring to Robbie and Davidson, I won't use a commercial reference to promote these corporations and refer to these traditional private stadiums with their original given names in all my media outlets from this moment on.
Scott Morganroth's blog can be seen on www.scottsports33.com and can be reached at scottsports33@aol.com
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