Memphis Sport January/February 2008 by Mike Bullard

The Rudy Gay Interview by Kyle Lowry

JAN/FEB 2008

CONTENTS Publisher’s Note page 2

VOL 2 NUM 4

Chatter page 3

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STARTING FIVE

BRING IT ON

10 COMMON SENSE

Pull the Trigger

22 ]Z

12 THE GREAT DEBATE 15 ALL IN 16 LAP IT UP 18 SAND TRAP 19 UNDER REVIEW

The Rudy Gay Interview by Kyle Lowry

20 XPRESSIONS 22 ALL-STARS 36 MEMPHIS MADE 38 CHIC IN THE FIELD 34 GIVE AND GO

CDR: The Leader

44 GET FIT

51 PRO TIPS 54 TAILGATING 56 JACK’S BACK

BONUS ONLINE CONTENT

What If ?

The Great Debate

The Rudy Gay Interview by Kyle Lowry

Chic in the Field

expanded

View the entire magazine along with all the BONUS ONLINE CONTENT at www.memphissport.net.

Get Fit: Personal Training

Hot Shots

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Predictions for 2008 • Pau Gasol will be traded away for a pick and a boatload of cash. He will then help lead his new team the NBA finals. • Derrick Rose will enter the NBA draft and return to Chicago to play for the Bulls.

Publishers Mike Bullard 901.229.4749 mike@memphissport.net Kim Bullard kim@memphissport.net Co-Publisher Ed Land, Jr. ed@memphissport.net Managing Editor Kevin Cerrito kevin@memphissport.net

• I will buy a Derrick Rose Bulls jersey. I might buy two.

Editorial Directors Jan Michael Hartelust Chris Przybyszewski

• With the sixth pick in the draft, the Grizzlies will draft Roy Hibbert from Georgetown.

Contributing Editor Laura Blanton

• Coach Cal will talk with a number of teams about coaching vacancies and will swear he is not leaving. He will not leave. • Tommy West will revamp many aspects of the Tiger football program. Most notably being the non-conference schedule which will be much more competetive and will only include one Division II opponent and one Sun Belt opponent. • The Tigers will not lose to any SEC team. • The Xplorers will change their name to the Midsouth Mafia and will welcome back Danton Barto as coach. • In the 2008 Memphis Sport Fantasy Football Challenge, I will not lose eight games in a row like I did in the 2007 Challenge. • I will not draft Marc Bulger as my starting QB. • The RiverKings will win another championship. • They will then change their name from the Mississippi Riverkings to “THE” Mississippi RiverKings. • Andy Roddick will make another good run at the Regions Morgan Keegan Championships, but Tommy Haas will three-peat. It will mark the first threepeat in the history of the tournament. • Phillip Fulmer’s last season at Tennessee will end without a bowl appearance. (OK, this is a hope more than a prediction.)

Contributing Writers Dr. Dale Armstrong Kelly Armstrong Eric Bleier Mindy Bush Jack Eaton Keith Evans Jenny Koltnow Kyle Lowry Maggie Louie Mandy Polk Jimmy Young Contributing Photographers Sean Davis Joe Murphy Account Executives Tara Wilson tara@memphissport.net Matt Owens matt@memphissport.net Graphic Design A Bull in a China Shop www.abullinachinashop.com Contributions Memphis Sport will consider, but assumes no responsibility for, unsolicited proposals, photos, and illustrations. Memphis Sport retains all reprint rights.

• Houston Nutt will beat Arkansas in his debut season with Ole Miss, although they will not win another game. • Memphis Sport will surpass Sports Illustrated and ESPN, The Magazine as the sports publication of choice among Mid-Southerners.

Mike Bullard, publisher

2 | Memphis Sport

CHATTER ABSOLUTE GARBAGE Just wanted to comment on an article I saw in the last issue of Memphis Sport. First off I love what you’re doing and I think 99% of what I see in your publication is fun, interesting, and informative. However, the piece by Maggie Louie this month was absolute garbage. Not only does it set women’s reporting back twenty years but the condescending and arrogant nature of the article was appalling. She obviously has never been around professional athletes before (as a journalist, taking pictures is an absolute no-no) and for her to make snap judgments about them was completely unfair. I found the part about Darko especially disturbing. To label Darko a stalker and imply that he would follow a women home (and frankly she insinuated more) was disrespectful and irresponsible. I love your magazine but this was way beneath it. With all that being said, I’m looking forward to the next issue, I’ll just be sure to skip anything she writes until I hear of an apology. - Tod S. PUBLISHER: Thanks, Tod. Not only for your comments, but for being a reader. We certainly apologize for publishing anything that might have offended you and we regret the article’s sarcasm wasn’t more clear to you. We encourage you to look at our magazine, the Chic in the Field section especially, as an exception to the rule. Had we done everything in this magazine the way everyone else does from the beginning, we wouldn’t be in business right now. There is a reason that no other media outlet handled things the way we did at Grizzlies Media Day. We respect their tradition, but we certainly don’t want the declining ratings... We did apologize, though. So Tod, if you are reading, skip right ahead to page 32 and read the latest installment of the Chic in the Field as Maggie visits the RiverKings. Enjoy. And to everyone else out there, do you love Memphis Sport or hate it? Send me an email at mike@memphissport.net and let me know what is on your mind.

www.memphissport.net | 3

STARTING FIVE

John Calipari 5 Questions With...

photo courtesy UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS

1. Is chemistry the main reason this Tiger team is having so much success? Yeah, they like each other. They’re now telling me they love each other. 2. Does the depth of this team really tie in with the “love” they have for each other now? Absolutely. They know that everyone on this team can play and they respect each other’s game. They know if they’re not giving it to me I’ll put someone else in who can. 3. So no loyalties? Whoever’s got it going is going to stay in the game. Whoever can help us win is who’s staying in the game. 4. Do you have any New Year’s resolutions? (Laughing) Ah, just, you know…no. Not that I’m going to say. 5. We saw you over at Parmasters the other day. What part of your game were you working on? Oh no, that was for my son Andrew. I was over there with him, but just observing.

4 | Memphis Sport

5 Grizzlies Players Younger Than Joey Dorsey, Born 12.16.83 1. Rudy Gay, 08.17.86 2. Kyle Lowry, 03.25.86 3. Mike Conley, 10.11.87 4. Darko Milicic, 06.25.85 5. Jeremy Richardson, 03.01.84

5 Grizz Players Past or Present We Would Like To See Wear Their First Names On The Back Of Their Jerseys (Like Yao) 1. Darko 2. Rudy 3. Bonzi 4. Chucky 5. Pau

5 New Year’s Resolutions for the Memphis Sports Fan 1. If the guy in front of me stands up, I won’t yell at him to sit down... I will stand up too. 2. I will go to Tiger football games– win, lose or draw. 3. I will read Memphis Sport to the blind. 4. I will not call into sports talk radio unless I can make more sense than Jeff Weinberger. 5. I will see at least one game each season of every team in town.

5 Movies Every Grizzlies Fan Should Own 1. Donnie Darko Darko Milicic is plagued by visions of a large bunny rabbit that manipulates him to commit a series of turnovers. 2. Rudy Rudy Gay has always been told that he was too old to play college football. But he is determined to overcome the odds and fulfill his dream of playing for Tommy West. 3. La Bomba Biographical story of the rise from nowhere of singer Juan Carlos Navarro. 4. Wallace & Gromit-The Curse of the Were-Rabbit Chris Wallace and his loyal dog, Gromit, set out to discover the mystery behind the sabotage at the FedExForum that plagues their Grizzlies and threatens the Playoffs. 5. National Lampoon’s Vacation The Grizz(walds) cross-country drive to play on the west coast proves to be much more arduous than they ever anticipated. They do, however stop to see the world’s largest ball of twine.

www.memphissport.net | 5

BRING IT ON

Christy by KEVIN CERRITO photo by SEAN DAVIS

University of Memphis Cheerleader Where are you from? Collierville.

What is your major? Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Health Studies and Behavioral Science. I want to do pharmaceutical sales. What is your favorite cheer? The Tigers Spell Out. It is when we spell out T-I-G-E-R-S. That is the only one the crowd really does with us. Who has the better hair, the cheerleaders or the basketball team? Cheerleaders

Are the cheerleaders banned from going to clubs like the basketball team? We are not. We can go. Can you think of anything good that happens at a club after midnight? I don’t know… maybe a good band or something. Favorite food? Anything spicy. Tacos. Favorite Movie? Wedding Crashers. Central parking lot or Southern? Southern. How many times have you been on ESPN? A lot because ESPN covers nationals. I’ve been to nationals a ton. What is the last book you read? Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin Did you buy or borrow it? Borrowed. What do you think about an on-campus football stadium? I think it is a great idea. I think it would help the football program out a ton and get the students more involved. Ever run through the fountain on campus? Yes, I have. Once on sorority bid day.

6 | Memphis Sport

Southwest Tennessee Community College offers over 100 different Associate degrees and certificate programs. With Southwest you can afford to be a little choosey; after all, it is Your College, Your Career and Your Choice. COME OUT AND SUPPORT THE SOUTHWEST SALUQIS IN 2007-2008!!! Upcoming games for the Lady Saluqis *

Upcoming games for the Saluqis * JANUARY 3 Kennedy-King 8 at Arkansas Baptist 11 Genesis One Prep 15 Arkansas Baptist 16 at Arkansas Tech JV 23 at Volunteer State 26 Jackson State 30 Columbia State FEBRUARY 2 at Saint Catharine 6 Dyersburg State 9 at Jackson State 13 at Columbia State 16 Volunteer State 20 at Dyersburg State 23 Saint Catharine

JANUARY 8 at Arkansas Baptist 15 Arkansas Baptist 23 at Volunteer State 26 Jackson State 30 Columbia State

7 p.m. 8 p.m. 7 p.m. 8 p.m. 7 p.m. 8 p.m. 4 p.m. 8 p.m. 4 p.m. EST 8 p.m. 4 p.m. 8 p.m. 4 p.m. 8 p.m. 4 p.m.

FEBRUARY 2 at Saint Catharine 6 Dyersburg State 9 at Jackson State 13 at Columbia State 16 Volunteer State 20 at Dyersburg State 23 Saint Catharine

6 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 2 p.m. 6 p.m. 2 p.m. EST 6 p.m. 2 p.m. 6 p.m. 2 p.m. 6 p.m. 2 p.m.

* Partial schedule only. Entire schedule available at www.southwest.tn.edu

Call (901) 333-5000 for more information All home games for the Lady Saluqis and Saluqis are played at the Verties Sails Gymnasium on the Union Avenue Campus. Southwest is a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association, the governing body for all two-year colleges across the country. The Saluqis also compete in the Tennessee Junior and Community College Athletic Association, which comprises all two-year colleges in the state of Tennessee.

Download a class schedule, course descriptions and your enrollment form at www.southwest.tn.edu Southwest sports ad 3.indd 1

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WHAT IF?

8 | Memphis Sport

www.memphissport.net | 9

COMMON SENSE

A Visit from St. Nick Because he had nothing better to do in January. by KELLY ARMSTRONG, a.k.a. the GODFATHER OF FOOTBALL

‘T

was the month after Christmas, and all through the South Radios were tuned in to ESPN’s house. The predictions were made by The Godfather and Jock, In hopes that big winnings would fill all our socks.

hen into the studios who should appear, But a big old fat man with a long white beard. The Godfather shouted, “Hey, what do you know? Santa is visiting The Common Man Show!”

he Tigers were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of Buckeyes danced in their heads. And Vili the Warrior just can’t understand, What’s a Hawaiian gotta do to win in this land?

hen over the airways there arose such a clatter, That The Godfather said, “Hey, what’s the matter? Is it Mike Vick abusing the dogs? Or Pac Man Jones abusing the law?”

as Belichick got a new surveillance device, Or has he decided just to play nice? Or maybe it’s just Armageddon we seek, From The Jock’s White Trash Report every week?”

ell, The Jock and The Godfather got ready to go, While the security guys just said “Ho, ho, ho.” Ron in his Air Jordans and the predator, Rick, Said, “Who are you expecting, good old St. Nick?”

anta was merry, Santa was gay From the Two-Buck Chuck he had on the way. Santa said, “Godfather, you’ve been pretty good I hear, You only said ‘bet’ on the air 70 times last year.

n honor of this, since you’ve been a good boy, I promise to fill 2008 with joy. All your predictions are going to come true. Even Chris Vernon will listen to you.

he Tigers will win lots of basketball games. Tommy West will garner much fortune and fame. And, as usual, you’ll make lots of cash, While the world will still be filled with white trash.”

aying a finger to the side of his nose, He gave a great sneeze and said, “There she blows!” He jumped out the window and sprang to his sleigh, And as the medics took him away,

e heard him exclaim from the ground way below: “Have a great 2008 from The Common Man Show!”

Kelly Armstrong, better known as the Godfather, hosts The Common Man Show on 730ESPN.

10 | Memphis Sport

n a n o M m Com SHOW THE

RDAYS U T A S 10 AM SDAYS E N D E W 10 PM

PN S E 0 3 7

The Common Man Show is a sports talk show dedicated to the every day, 9-5 working man that needs to relax and let loose. The Godfather and The Jock are going to share their insight into sports and have a little fun by making jokes at those players that cross their paths. Keep in mind that these players have long forgotten the reason they started playing a sport as a kid and now must have multimillion dollar contracts to play a game. Sure they are good at what they do and the majority of us could not do it but honestly, could they do our jobs? If they want to whine about not getting the ball enough or that they would play better with a few more dollars in their pocket, why can't we make fun of them? Especially when we all know that they are really saying, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Give me the ball more so I can get my stats up. That way when I am ready I can leave this team high and dry for a better contract (that my pit bull of an agent got me).â&#x20AC;? As the Godfather says, "This ain't our first prom dance!"

A Midsouth MAFIA production

www.memphissport.net | 11

THE GREAT DEBATE

Fantasy Football is Ruining the NFL by ED LAND, JR and MIKE BULLARD

Mike: Fantasy football is reaching new heights of

popularity the past few years with stats for players popping up after every play and shows on the NFL network and on ESPN dedicated to the game. But what everyone is failing to notice is that it is quickly killing the NFL. Yes, I might have watched the Rams play the Cardinals in the last week of the season, but only to see how Kurt Warner would perform, not because I actually cared about the outcome of the game. And isn’t the game supposed to be what is important here?

Ed: Stat pop-up boxes don’t prevent me from

enjoying the game. They’re displayed professionally and unobtrusively. Plus, in many ways, humans (especially men) are wired with genuine interest in determining “who’s the best” on the field of play. Technical analytics and game commentators providing related information to me on a real-time basis lessens my post-game research responsibilities. Nothin’ wrong with a little free time. Plus, many people actually love the stats BECAUSE of their care and passion for the game. When fans root for, say, the Titans, does it not add value to their experience to be updated with Vince Young’s up-to-date passing yardage? These two topics are not mutually exclusive.

Mike: Its not about the stats on the filed of the game

I care about, though... I have to pour through stats of all the teams. Teams I could care less about. Who cares about the stats of teh Miami Dolphins? Fantasy Football is ruining the NFL.

Ed: That’s impossible. If it weren’t for fantasy football, NFL merchandising would suffer tremendously. The corresponding revenue drop could hurt the league to the extent that the few annual player contract holdouts actually become league-wide strikes.

Specifically, without fantasy football fans only would buy jerseys worn by players on their favorite team, i.e. the Titans. As it is, fantasy team managers root for players performing throughout the NFL and across the country. All the while, their passion for the home team never wanes. Tennessee fans can buy Vince Young and Brett Favre jerseys on the same day and feel absolutely great about it.

Mike: No they can’t. If Brett Favre is playing against the Titans, I want him to have twelve interceptions. More if that’s possible. And who buys a jersey just

12 | Memphis Sport

because a guy is on their fantasy team? Did you see my team? I don’t want those jerseys.

Ed: What about the other 15 weeks when the Packers and

Titans aren’t playing? Further, in the event your stud (Favre) is playing against the Titans, his performance and Tennessee’s effectiveness are not mutually exclusive. Favre can have a big day and the Titans can still win. If that doesn’t resonate with you, draft Vince Young, LenDale White and Rob Bironas onto your fantasy team (good luck on their bye-week). Of course, no matter who is on any fantasy roster, Titans fans aren’t prevented from buying season tickets at LP Field. Lastly, would buying an Isaac Bruce jersey or drafting him onto your fantasy team compromise your integrity? He went to school right here at Memphis, but he plays against your favorite NFL team.

Mike: I do buy Titans season tickets because I am a Tennessee

fan. There is a big difference here. Just because someone drafted Marc Bulger doesn’t make him a Marc Bulger fan. As a Titans fan and a Memphis fan, I will stick with my Tony Brown jersey. I’ll buy Isaac Bruce’s jersey when he plays for the Titans. For the record, I absolutely was rooting against Big Ike when he played in the Super Bowl vs. the Titans.

Ed: But you didn’t have to. Ike had a very big fantasy day and

the Titans still only lost by 1 yard. Isaac didn’t play defense for the Rams, so he was not on the field for that critical tackle on the 1 yard-line. Further, fantasy football playoffs end before the NFL playoffs begin, so this is irrelevant. More to the point, NFL ratings continue to grow despite no growth in number of teams. Those ratings partially can be credited to fantasy footballers purchasing NFL Sunday Ticket! Think about it, would any Memphian (besides CDR) watch the Detroit Lions play if he didn’t have Calvin Johnson on his squad? No. Now think of the impact that has on the incoming advertising revenue for NFL game-airing stations across the country.

Mike: You hit on my point exactly. The NFL loves this whole

fantasy thing because it will force people to watch more games. But it is diluting the love that fans have for their teams. It is hard to love one team when your favorite players are all on other teams.

Ed: We each have endless love to go around, reaching players on our hometown NFL teams as well as those players on our fantasy team. Love has no limits. Also, teams are made up of individuals, so it’s perfectly acceptable to root for both individual and team success. Clearly, you’re allowing your hatred for Peyton Manning to surface, despite his positive impact in both sports and society

overall.

Mike: I hate Peyton Manning on the

field. I only dislike him off the field. And I do root for individual Titans as well as the team overall. I’m happy when Vince Young throws for 300 yards, but more happy when he does so in a win. I like my fantasy players, but too many pros value their own stats over team wins and losses.

Ed: How is it to the Cincinnati Bengals’

disadvantage for Carson Palmer to have yardage and touchdown goals as part of his contract incentives? Are the Bengals more likely to win if he produces less from a statistical standpoint? The fact is that if a player’s character is flawed, fantasy football isn’t the reason.

Mike: There is a problem if the stats

become more important than the win itself. Was there any reason for Peyton Manning to start two series’ against the Titans in the last game of the season other than getting Reggie Wayne his precious catches and to extend his consecutive starts? If he had gotten injured, would it have been worth it to pad the stats?

Ed: Surely you don’t think selfish

player behavior and stat-padding arrived with the birth of fantasy football. And regarding week 17, playing two series is obviously important for momentum and rhythm purposes, at least according to NFL head coaches. If stat-padding was the aim, why did Peyton ever come out? My final question: Has fantasy football been bad enough that you won’t play in the Second Annual Memphis Sport Fantasy Challenge?

Mike: There is no doubt I fielded a

team in our first season that couldn’t beat a Mississippi girls squad, but I swear the aforementioned criticisms had nothing to do with that.

Ed: As you said, “The NFL loves this

whole fantasy thing.” Go Titans! Go Isaac Bruce! Go Peyton Manning!

Mike: You’re a sell-out. Go Titans and only Titans!

www.memphissport.net | 13

14 | Memphis Sport

ALL IN

FUN MONEY MUST DO’S by JIMMY “CARD SHAH” YOUNG

Gambling SHOULD be fun. A few weeks back an old friend of mine came to visit me and she was distraught. She claimed she had fallen out of love with cards, she was miserable, and she had come to the “Card Shah” for advice. We got to business by the buffet and three apple juices and a plate of Tunica mashed potatoes later I had her answer. I could make gambling fun again. She simply had to follow three easy FUN MONEY MUST DO’s. By that very Friday she had the biggest smile and the biggest gold necklace you’d ever seen. Looks like she had a GREAT week. A bad run of hands notwithstanding it is “The Shah’s” belief that gambling like most things in life can

be wonderful. If there is money on the line and you want to have a good time follow these FUN MONEY MUST DO’s. FUN MONEY MUST DO #1: Bet with your head. Bet only what you can afford to lose. I’m not saying you’re going to lose. With the Card Shah’s help by gosh you’re going to win! But at the very least you’re going to feel like a winner by leaving the casino with your shirt. Nothing ruins a good night out like losing more than you wanted. Budget, plan, and stick to it. I promise I will never tell you to limit your wins! Sky is the limit with Jimmy Young. FUN MONEY MUST DO #2: Know your games. Figure out the games you like the best and then figure out how to beat them. You will make more money and

have more fun as you learn more about the games you love. Never stop learning. FUN MONEY MUST DO #3: Do what feels good. This one is basically a reminder to have fun out there. If you are tired take your lady or fella and call it a night. Have a nice dinner, see a show. You will not make money or have fun over time if you are not feeling your best. The casino is Entertainment City, USA. Crack jokes, meet people. You won’t regret it. Follow these three FUN MONEY MUST DO’s and I’ll Raise Ya Next Time. In his many years of live casino experience Jimmy “Card Shah” Young has won slightly more money than he’s lost.

www.memphissport.net | 15

LAP IT UP

Helmets That Help

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by ED LAND, JR. photo by SEAN DAVIS

Memphians know NASCAR standout Denny Hamlin. Hamlin first endeared himself to Memphis motorsports fans in 2005 and 2006 with two consecutive top ten finishes in the Busch Seriesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Samâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Town 250 (seventh and sixth respectively.)

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16 | Memphis Sport

But the local connection doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop there. FedEx, started and headquartered right here in Memphis, is the primary sponsor for Joe Gibbs Racing and Dennyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s #11 car. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Called upâ&#x20AC;? to the Nextel Cup series in 2006, Denny placed third in the final standings and won Rookie of the Year honors. He made it two for two in 2007 when he qualified for the Chase for the Cup, for a second consecutive time. You can see Denny whiz around the oval every Sunday in his black, orange, purple and white FedEx #11. FedEx has a lot to do with Hamlinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important visit to Memphis at the end of 2007. Hamlin and FedEx Racing joined together to host a media event at Memphis Motorsports Park to announce the auction of eleven of Hamlinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s raceworn helmets. Each helmet was designed

by a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hospital patient or a MakeA-Wish participant. Hamllin wore the helmets in a 2007 NASCAR Nextel Cup race. These â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wear Your Heart on Your Helmetâ&#x20AC;? auction proceeds later benefited the Victory Junction Gang Camp, a camp open year-round for terminally and chronically ill children. The VJGC, started in 2000 by one of NASCARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more well known families, the Pettyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, is located in Randleman, North Carolina. As part of the media event, Hamlin drove a few FedEx and media personnel around the track for three or four laps each. Any NASCAR skeptics out there thinking â&#x20AC;&#x153;all those guys do is drive around in a circle for 3 hoursâ&#x20AC;? need seriously reevaluate their views on the sport. For more information on Denny Hamlin or FedEx Racing, visit www.fedexracing.com. To keep informed on upcoming race events in Memphis, go to www.memphismotorsportspark.com.

Not that long ago, a man looking somewhat ragged and having what appeared to be

asked his doctor where the foremost orthopaedic specialists in the world could be found. Without hesitation, the doctor recommended Campbell

his family in tow, walked through the

Clinic. So the man immediately boarded his private jet,

doors of Campbell Clinic and made his

flew non-stop to Memphis, and proceeded directly to

way directly to the nurse’s station. Raising

Campbell Clinic.

his heavily bandaged hand high in the air, he declared

So of all the medical resources available in the

in a thick South American accent that he had just

world, why did the doctor recommend Campbell

arrived in Memphis that morning after flying 3,000

Clinic? It’s simple — we wrote the book on

miles and would like to see Dr. Campbell immediately.

orthopaedics. Literally, the textbook used by

Having been deceased nearly 30 years, Dr. Campbell

nearly all medical students and referenced by

was unfortunately not available. But the nurse assured

all orthopaedic physicians was first written by Dr.

him that the physicians who were in the office that day

Willis Campbell in 1939. It has since been

were more than qualified to treat him.

revised 10 times, expanded to four volumes by

When asked about his insurance, the man laughed incredulously. When asked about his prior medical history, the man gave the nurse a phone number of an

the experts on our staff, and been translated into six languages. It is, for the lack of a better word, the Bible of orthopaedics.

It follows then that all orthopaedists in one way

office in Peru.

A little background check seemed to be in order. It turned out that the phone number was for the man’s personal physician. And the man turned out to be the

or another learn their craft from Campbell Clinic. And whom would you rather have as your doctor, the teacher or the pupil?

largest exporter of bananas in the entire world.

Frustrated with the fact that his injured hand was not healing properly, the Peruvian Banana King had

CAMPBELL CLINIC Ort h opa ed i c s

w w w. ca m p b e l lc l i n i c . co m

www.memphissport.net | 17

SAND TRAP

Par for the course? by ED LAND, JR.

What are golfers supposed to do during the winter months to enjoy their sport and keep their skills fresh? Playing 18 holes in 30 degree temperatures on courses that renovate during the offseason certainly doesn’t sound appealing. What about during the spring and summer months? Perhaps you’ve had more than one golf outing cancelled due to rain. Not only that, but no matter how nice the course or how perfect the elements, swinging the sticks with your buddies every weekend doesn’t necessarily improve your game. Finally, ever played golf in the dark? Parmasters Memphis, owned and operated by Mike Allen and Mario Bertagna, is an indoor semi-private golf

specific training equipment and individual lockers.

training and practice center providing members of all skill-levels the following services and amenities:

1. Full short game practice area, including undulating putting greens and green-side bunkers. For the record, Mike Miller has one of these on his very own property. 2. Spacious practice bays, each complete with instant ball return and state of the art digital analysis/feedback (swing speed, club angle, ball trajectory and distance). 3.Over 25 simulated golf courses (including Pebble Beach), played using radar technologies with results displayed on huge wall-size wide screen panels. 4. Full fitness center, including golf

5. Full delicatessen. 6. Business meeting and corporate party rooms. 7. Flatscreens showing ESPN and The Golf Channel throughout! There are varying types of monthly membership plans available at Parmasters, so you don’t have to worry about long term contracts. As a matter of fact, results at Parmasters are guaranteed, so you’re certain never to regret jumping on-board. If training at Parmasters wasn’t enjoyable or didn’t achieve results, would John Calipari still be a member?

Building Boys, Making Men. In an era when boys are underperforming and disengaging from schools around the country, the boys of PDS are excited about learning, developing critical and creative thinking skills, and gaining a vision of what it means to be a man.

Presbyterian Day School ˜ SINCE 1949 ˜

PDS is an elementary school for boys in grades PreK to 6. Financial aid available. PDS maintains a nondiscriminatory policy with regard to race, color, and national or ethnic origin.

18 | Memphis Sport

4025 Poplar Avenue t Memphis, Tennessee 38111-6622 901-842-4600 t pdsmemphis.net.

UNDER REVIEW

FREE ROAST BEEF* *strings attached

by KEVIN CERRITO photo by SEAN DAVIS

When Memphis beat Georgetown (or Georgetwn as the scoreboard said) 85-71 back in December, it was the first time ever that two top five teams in the country met on a basketball court in the city of Memphis. Not to mention, the game was only the sixth time in history that every fan in attendance won a free Danver’s roast beef sandwich with the purchase of a drink.

drink and roast beef sandwich for $1.63 including tax ($3.19 plus tax is the regular price for the sandwich alone). Sure, the best deals are the ones that involve you not having to buy anything, but most game giveaways these days are starting to involve spending a little cash. Plus, Danver’s may have the most versatile fountain drink line-up of any restaurant in town. Along with the usual Coke products, there is the option of Pibb Xtra, Caffeine Free Diet Coke, Lemon Lime Powerade, root beer, sweet tea, and lemonade. And, the sandwich is more filling than the crunchy taco.

Besides Derrick Rose being the team’s new starting point guard, the most noticeable change this year at Tiger games is the new “75 points or more” promotion which switched from Taco Bell to locally based Danver’s.

For those who have not been to Danver’s in awhile, they have remodeled most their restaurants with a nicer stone décor and plants. And even though salad bars are on the fast food restaurant endangered species list, Danver’s still has one at every location. If you like roast beef sandwiches, a variety of beverage choices, and the Memphis Tigers, the new Danver’s promotion is worth a try.

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Generally, a player doesn’t dramatically ost basketball fans are well increase his shooting percentage during aware of the “hot hand” the course of a single game. So if the phenomena. One basketball player, Purvis player is not improving, if he really has a Short, describes the effect: “You’re in a hot hand, perhaps the fact that he makes world all your own. It’s hard to describe. one shot makes him more likely to sink But the basket seems to be so wide. No the next shot. This is possible, and yet the matter what you do, you know that ball facts don’t bear it out. is going to go in.” Hardly a game goes by that some sports announcer doesn’t note Such a dynamic would change the face of that a player is particularly “hot.” Many the sport forever. Wouldn’t it be a coach’s coaches and players design game strategies dream to find a player that could continue to feed the hot hand if a player has hit a to make basket after basket after he sank number of shots in a row. Most coaches, his first shot? Unfortunately, such a players, and fans can recognize the hot player has yet to be found. hand, however, no hard evidence has ever been able to prove beyond a reasonable Don’t worry though, there may actually doubt that any basketball player has ever be an explanation that will not require truly had a “hot hand.” Statisticians claim basketball fans to see psychiatrists to the belief in the hot hand is just another cure their mass example of the hysteria. Recent fundamental Wouldn’t it be a coach’s studies have misconception dream to find a player that identified certain o f th e l aw s o f players that indeed chance. Cognitive could continue to make streak psychologists basket after basket after he exhibit shooting. These have even gone sank his first shot? streaks may not so far as to blame mean the player the obser vance is getting better, but since such streaks on mass hysteria fed by the media and are improbable, they are also more superstitious fans. memorable. For example, a streak of three pointers might be more memorable than But are fans and coaches really wrong a streak of layups, and fans might credit to believe that some basketball players the three-point shooter with the hot hand occasionally get hot in their shooting? before the inside shooter. So relax and Well, it depends on what we truly mean enjoy watching the game—you’re not by the hot hand. Is the player’s shot delusional, you are simply possessed with percentage actually going up before extraordinary powers of observation! your very eyes? In other words, is the Shoot on, oh hot hand, shoot on. hot-handed player really getting better during the game? This is pretty unlikely.

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In what is now not new news, Houston Nutt, previously of Arkansas, is the head coach at the University of Mississippi. The sound you heard was Ole Miss AD Pete Boone pulling a trigger, ending the tenure of now-ex-Ole Miss coach Ed Orgeron.

Ejaa I] Z Ig^\\Zg by Chris Przybyszewski

It happened in classic college football fashion. Boone, in January of 2007, offered Orgeron a two-year extension on his four-year contract. At the time, Boone said “We are pleased with the progress Coach Orgeron has been able to make in his first two years,” adding, “We anticipated the resurrection of this program would take four to five years.” Boone’s generosity was before the 2007 campaign, which included a winless SEC season and an embarrassing three-point loss to in-state rival Mississippi State. One reason that Ole Miss lost that game was Orgeron’s decision to go for it on a fourth and one at his own 49-yard line early in the fourth quarter. Mississippi State didn’t allow the one-yard run, became revitalized, and won the Egg Bowl. The press enjoyed the decision, as it made for some nice article titles. “As usual, Coach O’s bright idea leads to a dark day for his Ole Miss squad,” announced columnist Geoff Calkins at The Commercial Appeal. The loss not only gladdened the press. Boone now had an ideal excuse, a crushing loss to a rival, to bump Orgeron. Boone’s motivations were obvious, as the so-called search for a new coach lasted all of three days and ended as soon as Nutt resigned from Arkansas, a non-coincidental coincidence. Only the most cynical would suggest that Boone had Nutt in hand before he pulled the trigger on Orgeron. At the least, Boone saw an opening. Nutt was unhappy at Arkansas, and Boone ditched the struggling Orgeron for a proven success. After all, Nutt is the guy who wins. To repeat the oft-repeated list of accomplishments: Seven bowls, including one Citrus and two Cottons; two SEC Coach of the Year honors; three SEC West Division titles; 15 victories over Top-25 teams, including five wins over Top-5 opponents, three of whom were in the Top-3. Of course, the most recent and maybe

26 | Memphis Sport

most stunning victory was Arkansas’ knock out of eventual national championship contender, LSU. That win alone was enough to make most any Ole Miss supporter forget all about a “four to five” year plan. Nutt’s win over LSU surely lit the imaginations of Rebel faithful, as they, in their mind’s eye, switched the red of the Arkansas jerseys to the Red & Blue of Ole Miss’ jerseys. The hiring also speaks of the urgency Boone must feel as the SEC transitions into a new era of football dominance. Sylvester Croom and Mississippi State are approaching respectability, and Vanderbilt continues its uppity ways. Heck, even South Carolina has the “Old Ball Coach” Steve Spurrier hunting national prominence. Boone could see the tide change (pun intended, given Nick Saban’s recent residency in Alabama), and he knew that a only breathtaking move, audacious in its timing, would leave no doubt that Ole Miss is here, and it is here to play ball. For Boone to sit on the situation because of loyalty to Orgeron could have been costly at best, reckless at worst. At the end of the day, Boone’s career and legacy depend on those university leaders and their mood come game day as they sit in a luxury box at VaughtHemingway Stadium. Those people are neither forgiving nor nostalgic, as they are the same people who have forgotten already the successes of the lesser Manning and the Tennessee offensive coordinator who led the Rebels to some national success. The big question now is whether Nutt can carry Ole Miss to glory. Nutt will have to reunite the Rebel fan base, and he is going to have to find a way to win and win soon.

A third, vital question is whether Nutt can put behind him the stink that forced him to leave Arkansas, his alma mater. Do not forget that Nutt is the guy who lost the SEC championship to Florida in 2006, and who couldn’t regain his momentum, losing in the same year his offensive coordinator, Gus Malzahn, in a move that many felt showed a crack in Nutt’s coaching staff. Worse still, Malzahn’s departure led to the departure of heralded QB Mitch Mustain. Mustain’s departure became even more sordid when a family friend of Nutt’s sent Mustain a nasty email, deriding the QB for leaving. In football terms, many questioned whether Nutt could succeed after the pair left, and Nutt didn’t do much to answer that question, going only an unremarkable (despite the LSU win) 8-4 in the 2007 regular season. There was personal ugliness as well, as Nutt was forced to defend himself against accusations of illicit affairs, prompting a public letter that condemned the allegations. However, Arkansas fans were not so placated and actually sued to see Nutt’s phone records to catch the coach doing the dirty.

...he is going to have to find a way to win and win soon.

The first half is not so hard. Nutt’s resume is one that inspires imaginations of greatness. Also, Nutt understands what Ole Miss fans want to hear. During his first press conference, Nutt was quick to point out that he had read the Ole Miss press book, citing names like Manning, Gibbs, Kinard, McAllister, and Manning again. “It’s about tradition,” he said. “That’s the reason I am here.”

These sorts of PR skills are exactly what the Ole Miss faithful need to hear, as well as Nutt’s call to arms. “I feel like this place can win,” he said. “That’s the way you spell fun is ‘W-I-N.’ That’s what it is all about.” The second part might not be so hard either. Orgeron was – as promised – a tremendous recruiter. Combining the talent Ole Miss has on the field with Nutt’s apparently superior game management acumen, the Rebels might become respectable sooner than later.

Seeing enough, Nutt left on the high note of the LSU victory, sweetened by Arkansas’ last-minute efforts to keep him, which Nutt happily denied. As a further thumb in Arkansas’ eye, Nutt moved over only a couple hundred miles to an SEC rival, ensuring that Arkansas is going to feel the brunt end of this departure for many years. Or not. If Nutt does not succeed at Ole Miss, then it would be the same story, different decade for Ole Miss. Nutt will certainly get his shot, but he is, as is any coach, just one season away from having a trigger pulled on him, as well.

www.memphissport.net | 27

I]Z GjYn <Vn >ciZgk^Zl >U GUHA HKSNU One of the most exciting plays you can see at a Grizzlies game is Rudy Gay catching a Kyle Lowry alley oop pass and finishing with an explosive dunk. Since Gay and Lowry entered the association together last season, the two have been the leading examples of why there is hope on the horizon for the struggling Grizzlies. On and off the court, the Grizzliesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; two sophomore stars work hard and have fun while embracing expectations as the future of the franchise. Following practice one day, Lowry grabbed some Memphis Sport stationery and instead of basketballs, started throwing questions to Rudy Gay.

Kyle: First off, who is the best player on the team named Kyle and why? Rudy: Ah, you freakin’ idiot! I think we have a ball boy named Kyle…and someone in the administration named Kyle too. No man, I’d pick Kyle (Lowry). He’s what keeps us goin’. He’s the motor.

Kyle: Doesn’t it make sense Kyle’s jersey number is 1? Rudy: ‘Cause he’s a point guard?

Kyle: What is it about Mr. Lowry that makes him so dominant on the court? Barry-Sanders o’kee-dokes and ankle breakers? J-Kidd vision? Rudy: I’d say it’s his skunk-like smell.

Kyle: How do you show

appreciation to your point guard for setting you up to the tune of 20 points per game? Rudy: Um. Kyle: He doesn’t folks. Rudy: No, no. I took you to eat a couple times. I got you some presents. Remember, I got you those jeans. Kyle: That’s your answer? Jeans? Rudy: Freaking right!

Kyle: I am about 5 months older than you are, so I’m like

your dad, or like big brother. What is it about my superior life experience that is most helpful to you, both on and off the court? Rudy: Oh, that’s a good one. You’ve been around the block, but there’s nothin’ you can teach me. I could teach you how to grow but it won’t work. You won’t listen, obviously.

Kyle: Which college basketball program has the longest

standing trad— Rudy: UCONN! Kyle: No, you didn’t even--I didn’t even ask you a question yet. Rudy: Does it matter? Kyle: O.K. Villanova. Next question. Who won the ‘05-‘06 battle between Villanova and UCONN? Which Villanova player

went off for 18 in that game? Who led Villanova in assists and steals in that season? Rudy: I’m gonna be honest with you guys. Kyle: At the Wachovia! In Philly! I had 16 in the first half ! Rudy: You just answered your own question. You had 16 in the first half. Ended up with 18. I wasn’t guarding you in the first half. I was like, ‘I got this guy. 16 points?’ Second half ? 2 points. Kyle: But listen. Point guard went off. I drained like 5 three’s in the first half. Rudy: Let’s talk about what happened in the first game. We won. Kyle: Alright. Let’s go to the next question. Rudy: No! When y’all won, your fans rushed the court. Kyle: You guys were the number one team in the country! Rudy: When we won, our fans were cool. I’ve never seen our fans rush the court. They expect to win. We were supposed to win. Kyle: Our fans like us. They want to be next to us. Rudy: Our fans love us!

Kyle: Other than me, who is your favorite point guard in the NBA?

Rudy: Steve Nash. Because he’s allowed to carry. Kyle: How did you learn to dunk like you do? Rudy: I’d say, you know…genes. Kyle: I wish I had this on video. Rudy: We need to start a reality show. Kyle: What is different about this year than last year? Rudy: More motivated. I’m hungrier. Kyle: You just ate I thought. Rudy: Hey grow up. These are serious questions now. Kyle: What do you miss most about Mike Fratello? Rudy: That’s a real question? Is that really the question? What’s that?

Kyle: Next question. Kyle: How much more do you think you can improve? Rudy: I think we’re just scratching the surface right now. We’re

effective, but we have more to work on. In the future, we can get a lot better.

I]Z GjYn <Vn >ciZgk^Zl

www.memphissport.net | 29 >U GUHA HKSNU

Kyle: I see your goatee growin’ in. How did this happen? Rudy: I don’t know. This is new to me. Kyle: It’s connecting too. Rudy: It’s starting to. It’s a little spotty.

Kyle: Yeah, I see…right there

(pointing). I don’t want to touch your face.

Kyle: You prefer taking the first

shot of the game or the last? Oh, let me answer this question. Rudy is soooo talented… that he wants to take every shot! No, Rudy is a big game player. It doesn’t matter. He’s a “go to” guy at the end of a game, but if he takes just the first shot or gets a game winning assist, it doesn’t matter as long as we win. That’s the kind of guy he is. Rudy: Bingo! That’s my guy. Yeah! That’s why we get along right there.

Kyle: Why do you wear the

number 22? Rudy: This is a funny story. Well, it’s not funny, but it’s a story. I wore number 21 from age ten to seventeen. Then I went to UCONN and all of the sudden Josh Boone wants to wear 21. He always used to wear numbers in the 50’s. I played with him on AAU teams and everything. I told him “Josh, I need 21.” He said no, so I hit him upside the head with my elbow and made 22 my number.

Kyle: How far is this Grizzlies team from making the playoffs? Rudy: That sounds like a crazy question, but I don’t think it is.

It’s just the little things. We’re not that far off. We can be as good as any team in the playoffs.

Kyle: What were your nicknames growing up? Rudy: Rud Boy, Big Truck, uh…what else they call me? Kyle: Mr. Gay? Rudy: Ha ha ha. Only in elementary school. Bones, Slinky…all those…Rudabaker… Kyle: That’s enough. Rudy: Randy. Kyle: OK.

30 30 | Memphis Sport

Rudy: Ronald. Kyle: OK! Rudy: Slippin’, The Kid, Young Fella’, Yo’ Daddy. Kyle: Next question. Kyle: Why do you prefer the PS3 over the XBOX and what

games do you play most? Rudy: That’s an easy question Kyle. I think we both know I play, uh…what’s the name of that game? Kyle: Uh. Duty? Rudy: Yeah. Call of Duty 3, because it’s like being in a war, without actually having to be, you know, in a war. Or I play NBA 2K8.

Kyle: What was the last video game you lost in? Who was it against?

Rudy: 2K8 against my friend Devan. That was the only time I lost ever.

Kyle: What should I have written about you in my Slam

Magazine diary? Rudy: You never wrote about me. Kyle: Yeah, I actually did. My first entry had your name all up in it. Rudy: Yeah, but that was last year. What up now?

Kyle: What would you write about me if you kept a similar

diary for Memphis Sport Magazine? Rudy: Kyle, uh. Alright, you know. He needs to pass the ball more. Duh. Do I need to put my hands up or something?

Kyle: If I opened up a Philly cheese steak place in Memphis— Rudy: I’d be there Kyle: Would you be a paying customer or would you try to eat

for free? You know what? You don’t have to answer that one. You can eat for free when you come in. You’re my boy. Rudy: If you didn’t, I’d steal it. What, are you gonna call the cops on me? Of course.

Kyle: Could you dunk on a 12ft. goal? Rudy: You know what? I had tried to dunk on an 11’5” goal… and it was like…fingertips…so…yeah. I could.

Kyle: Which musical instrument— Rudy: Trumpet. Kyle: Can you play best? Or wish you could play?

Rudy: I can play the trumpet. Kyle: No, you can’t. Rudy: I played the trumpet when I was little. Kyle: I don’t think you could even come close to playing the trumpet. I’m gonna buy you a trumpet and we’ll see. Rudy: I can seriously play the trumpet.

Kyle: Who would you choose: Sierra, Beyonce or Halle Berry? Rudy: Ah. Crap. Beyonce is with Jay-Z who’s my favorite rapper, which although she is stunning, I’m gonna half to X her out. Kyle: Yeah, you’re right. I probably would have to also. Rudy: Beyonce’s in a whole different…um...weight class. Uh… Sierra…is… Kyle: Ding. Ding. Ding. Ding.

Kyle: What’s your golf handicap? About a thousand? Rudy: I am handicapped in golf. Kyle: Do you own the movie Rudy on DVD? Not about you.

The football kid. You should own it and frame it. It’s your name. Rudy: You can’t frame a movie. Kyle: You can like get a poster of it. Or take the paper out of the box and paste it on. Rudy: It’s an underdog story. Kyle: So, you’re saying you’re a dog that’s under? Rudy: No.

I]Z GjYn <Vn >ciZgk^Zl

www.memphissport.net | 31 >U GUHA HKSNU

Kyle: How far will the Memphis Tigers go in March? Rudy: As far as…they’ll be good as long as Joey Dorsey stays out of foul trouble…and out of the news (laughs). As far as Jerrick Rose… Kyle: Derrick Rose? You got ‘em mixed up. Rudy: I was thinking Jalen Rose and Derrick Rose. Kyle: Both of ‘em are for real. Rudy: Jalen’s my guy. Both of them are my guys. Derrick will do real well. The Tigers could go a long way, maybe all the way.

Kyle: Did you watch the U of M

vs. UCONN game this year? Who were you rooting for? HA! Rudy: It depends on who won. Kyle: Did you hear that UCONN? Rudy: If UCONN would’ve won, I’d have been like, Yes! But when Memphis won, I was like…they cheated (just kidding).

Kyle: What makes FedExForum

the best NBA arena we play in? Rudy: Uh. It’s our home arena? So, hello? Kyle: That’s true. Rudy: The floor is always clean. Kyle: It’s cold a lot, but it’s been warm the past couple of games. We have great locker rooms. You seen the 76ers locker rooms? That’s where Villanova plays. Rudy: Next question.

Kyle: What’s the best BBQ joint in town? B-B-B-Barbecue! Rudy: What’s that place where you can’t even hardly find it? In an alley? Kyle: Rendezvous.

Kyle: Poplar or Walnut Grove? Rudy: For what? Kyle: It’s just a question. Rudy: Poplar what? Kyle: I’d say Walnut Grove. It’s a nice drive.

I]Z GjYn <Vn >ciZgk^Zl

32 >U GUHA HKSNU 32 | Memphis Sport

Rudy: I’ve never been on Walnut Grove. Kyle: Yes you have. It’s Union. Rudy: Oh, crap. I’d say Walnut Grove. Kyle: Have you met Jerry the King Lawler since your arrival to Memphis? Rudy: Man, I want to. I really want to.

Kyle: The last thing, take care of your point guard and he’ll take care of you. Rudy: UCONN has more National Championships. Kyle: I’m not staying around here for this. We’re done here!

THE LEADER by JAN MICHAEL HARTELUST photos by JOE MURPHY

The kid from the streets of Detroit leads the nationally ranked Tigers with skill, leadership and a little bit of chemistry.

www.memphissport.net | 33

Just after 11:30 p.m. on a cold December night, the vast emptiness of FedExForum sits in virtual silence. The faint sound of conversations between fans and building employees has disappeared into the exit portals. Anyone who is not a University of Memphis basketball fan would be shocked to know that the decibel level of this young building reached a beautiful crescendo less than an hour ago, thanks in large part to a little chemistry. With just over eight minutes left against No. 17 Arizona, and the Tigers clinging to a seven-point lead, Chris DouglasRoberts lay motionless beneath the basket after a hard foul from Wildcat center Kirk Walters. The 18,000 fans packed into FedEx Forum sit in nervous anticipation of some positive sign from their star player. One minute later, Douglas-Roberts stands up to a gladiator’s cheer. Within seconds, the roar turns into a rousing chant of “C-D-R! C-D-R! C-D-R!” Of course, CDR limps to the line and calmly sinks both free-throw attempts.

“They showed me a lot of love,” says Douglas-Roberts of his former teammates. Maybe they could have predicted that by the end of his sophomore season, CDR would be leading the Tigers to yet another 33 wins to go along with another Elite Eight appearance. How does a kid from Detroit become the leader of a Memphis basketball team possibly on the verge of one of its greatest seasons? According to Douglas-Roberts, the leadership skills he is now showcasing for Memphis and much of the college basketball world were learned a long time ago. “I was always a leader in my neighborhood,” he says. “I grew up in a real tough neighborhood. Only the strong survive. You have to be a leader to survive in that neighborhood.” Douglas-Roberts took those leadership skills to Detroit Cass Tech and eventually to Detroit Northwestern High School, where he transferred after three seasons at Cass Tech. He was ranked the No. 30 overall player by Scouts.com and the No. 51 overall player and No. 15 shooting guard by Rivals.com. He was highly recruited by big national programs like Miami (FL), Ohio State, Oklahoma, Arizona and Georgia Tech, but ultimately wound up choosing the University of Memphis. “I picked Memphis because it was the best place for me,” Douglas-Roberts said. “When I took a visit, I just got along with everybody.”

“I want him to shoot more,” Calipari says. “If they don’t want to play him, shoot the ball. He’s a good shooter.”

In the locker room after the Tigers had dispatched their third ranked opponent of the season, a smiling DouglasRoberts, oblivious to the mark on his back from the hard foul that had fans holding their collective breath, is asked by one of the many journalists swarming around him if he wanted to show that smile after hearing chants of his popular nickname. “Oh no, I can’t smile on the court,” Douglas-Roberts said, his smile growing even larger. That certainly didn’t mean he didn’t appreciate the display of support and adoration from the fans. “It shows a lot, though. It shows that the fans are there for me.” Indeed they are. Since his freshman year, when he logged significant minutes while starting 25 of the Tigers’ 34 games, CDR has been a fan favorite for his knack for being able to score around the basket when it seems like a near impossibility. On that team, however, with veteran leaders like Rodney Carney and Darius Washington, Douglas-Roberts was merely a role player.

34 | Memphis Sport

Certainly Coach Calipari was a factor in Douglas-Roberts’ decision to join the Tigers. Calipari has also been a major influence on CDR, both on and off the court.

“He’s taught me more than just being a basketball player,” says Douglas-Roberts. “I came in here with kind of a sour attitude, you know, chip on my shoulder. He changed that. Now I look at everything from a totally different outlook.” Calipari, recognizes the development of one of his best players. “He’s really made strides,” Calipari says with an almost proud father-like tone in his voice. But Calipari, always the coach, is also quick to point out some things he wants Douglas-Roberts to improve on. “I want him to shoot more,” Calipari says. “If they don’t want to play him, shoot the ball. He’s a good shooter.” Shooting the ball was the one question many scouts had about Douglas-Roberts coming out of high school. Without a doubt, he doesn’t do much of it. And perhaps if he did, it would make his graceful slashes into the lane even easier. He is showing improvement from beyond the arc, however. Through his first two seasons, Douglas-Roberts averaged only 32 percent from behind the three point line. This season, he is hitting 48 percent through 11 games. What’s more important, and what adds to CDR’s development as a leader, is that he seems to know when his team needs him to hit a big shot – whether it’s taking a three point shot or driving hard to the basket.

Against Georgetown, Douglas-Roberts poured in 24 points and repeatedly made big shots when his team needed it most. One week later, with the Tigers facing nationally ranked Arizona, it was more of the same from CDR. He was decisive and without hesitation. He has a grasp of his team and each situation it faces that shows both on the court and off. Back in the locker room, Douglas-Roberts speaks to reporters like some of the most seasoned coaches, let alone players, in the game. Obviously, he has experience with these situations. After all, he has played in a number of big games in just over two seasons at the University of Memphis. He has been a part of 77 wins over that time span. He has dealt with the media many times before, and of course, it is always easier after a win. He speaks of his team as just that – a team. This should be a big night for DouglasRoberts. A win. The chanting. And oh yeah, he became the 43rd player in University of Memphis history to reach 1,000 points for a career. But when asked about the individual milestone, he responded the way a leader would. “To be honest with you, I didn’t even know until just now,” says Douglas-Roberts. He went on to say that all that mattered was that the team picked up another win over a good team. Whether his initial response is true or not doesn’t matter. He answered the question the way a leader would – by talking about the team and how important it was to them. It is easy to see what he thinks about his team when he talks about them and the importance of chemistry. “Chemistry is the biggest thing for a team,” says Douglas-Roberts. “The most talented teams don’t always win. But if you combine chemistry with talent and athleticism, you’re a great team. But I always say chemistry is number one.” Coach Calipari agrees. “They’ve got each others backs. They’re talking to each other. They love each other. They respect each other. That’s what makes us good.” As the reporters begin to file out of the locker room, Douglas-Roberts is asked what he thinks the overall strength of this team is. His answer is decisive and without hesitation. “Chemistry,” he says. “No question.” That is a leader. That is the leader of the nationally ranked Tigers.

www.memphissport.net | 35

MEMPHIS MADE

President Bartow by KEVIN CERRITO photo by SEAN DAVIS

“I have been one of the lucky ones in athletics. I enjoyed my 34 years as a college coach, even the two years at UCLA which were kind of bizarre.”

he easiest connection between the Tigers and Grizzlies starts right at the top with Gene Bartow.

Former Tigers coach turned Grizzlies advisor, Bartow is in his first season as president of Hoops, LP, the company that runs the Grizzlies and FedExForum “One day last summer Michael Heisley (Grizzlies owner) called and said I’d like to give you the title of president of the organization,” Bartow remembers. It is the latest chapter in the life of a legend who will always be adored locally for what happened in 1973. He coached the Tigers as far as they have ever been in the NCAA tournament, bringing a

36 | Memphis Sport

divided city together. “I’ll never get tired talking about that,” he says. “I had a lot of good teams in my years, but that ‘73 team that played for the national championship was my favorite team. Larry Finch was my favorite player… still is.” The Tigers lost to UCLA, but won over the city. “My four years as the Tigers head coach was a great experience,” Bartow remembers. “Several reasons” including the Tigers departure from the Missouri Valley Conference led to Bartow leaving then

Memphis State University to coach at Illinois. He later spent two years at UCLA before leaving to build UAB’s athletic program from scratch as the head basketball coach and athletic director. “Billy Murphy offered me a chance to come back [to Memphis], after I had moved to UAB,” Bartow says. He called and invited me to come back as the head coach. I verbally agreed to do it on the phone.” But, Bartow would have to retract because his daughter wanted to finish school in Birmingham and the president of UAB would not let him out of his 10 year contract.

“I have been one of the lucky ones in athletics,” he says. “I enjoyed my 34 years as a college coach, even the two years at UCLA which were kind of bizarre. I enjoyed walking into that office everyday. I enjoyed everything… except the games. The games are stressful.” Following his retirement from UAB, Bartow found his way back to the Bluff City as a special advisor to the newly relocated Memphis Grizzlies. After tallying 647 wins as a coach, the Grizzlies’ new president is enjoying his role in the front office.

FOOD, FUN & FRIENDS

“At a game, if I get tired or mad at a referee, I just go and get a hot dog,” Bartow jokes. “I couldn’t do that when I was on the bench.”

OOKHAVEN

~ ~

game, if I get Pub “At & aGrill

tired or mad at a referee, I just go and get a hot dog. I couldn’t do that when I was on the bench.” He may work for the Grizzlies now, but he keeps an eye on the Tigers and Coach John Calipari. “I see John from time to time,” Bartow says. “I consider him a good friend. He has been really kind to Larry Finch. He is a generous person, a good coach, very deserving. I hope he can win a national championship this year.”

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Every year when the Tigers play in Birmingham, they have to compete in the hostile environment of Bartow Arena. Though, FedExForum is the arena Bartow is most concerned about these days. “I think Mike Conley is going to be a really good player, ” he says. “Rudy Gay may be our next superstar. We have got good guys here. We have got a lot of good things going.”

www.memphissport.net | 37

Chic in the Field

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30 YEAR ANNIVERSARY s FIFTEEN MINUTES FROM EVERYWHERE s

Some Like it Rough By MAGGIE LOUIE

When I think of Hockey I think angry Canadians, orthodontics and Wayne Gretzky. After my trip to Southavenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Desoto Civic Center, home of the RiverKings, my impression has been drastically altered. It turns out many hockey players come from Boston as well.

Me- â&#x20AC;&#x153;Um actually they are a 70â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s band that started in the very late 60â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s but are best known for their 70â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work!â&#x20AC;?

So there I am, wandering around the DCC looking for my story, when I stumble into the locker room. It seemed, after all, a likely place to find hockey players. I was busily clicking pictures, when I saw this cute, half-dressed guy. I racked my brain for a deep probing hockey question. I wanted to get inside his head, inside his strategy, inside the game. Finally, I walked up and introduced myself to the young stud, who turned out to be Rick Kozak, #61, forward.

He â&#x20AC;&#x153;blah-blahedâ&#x20AC;? on and on about sports and whatever, for a few minutes, but he wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t that hot, and honestly, I totally stopped listening after the Zep thing.

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38 | Memphis Sport

Next I talked to Louis Dumont #16, C, AKA Old Man RiverKings. Me- â&#x20AC;&#x153;How old are you anyway?â&#x20AC;? Louis - â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m the oldest guy on the team. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m 34.â&#x20AC;? He hung his head as if ashamed to say it.

Me- â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not old! Heck, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m 37!â&#x20AC;? Just Me- â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hi there Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Maggie Louie. Do you then one of his teammates mind if I ask you a him (Darrell few questions?â&#x20AC;? I felt it, the sporty ragged Stoddard, #87, F). fan DNA finally He stared at me as Stoddard - â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ask him if if I were some sort kicking in! I was heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gonna dye his gray of acid trip residual cuz itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s old andâ&#x20AC;Ś rooting for a player! hair hallucination he was gray!â&#x20AC;? Wow, the poor guy having. struggled so hard to come with that pitiful slice, I almost thought to Me- â&#x20AC;&#x153;Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your favorite band?â&#x20AC;? At that leave him alone. I mean, clearly he suffers he tilted his head and looked around the from one too many pucks to the head, but room awaiting the hidden camera crew to then I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t resist: pop out, and responded: Rick Kozak- â&#x20AC;&#x153;Metallica?â&#x20AC;? Me- â&#x20AC;&#x153;Are you serious?â&#x20AC;?

Me- â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wow - I thought the writers were on strike.â&#x20AC;?

Rick- â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know, Nickelback?â&#x20AC;?

Stoddard- â&#x20AC;&#x153;Huh? What- no I just made that up.â&#x20AC;?

Me- â&#x20AC;&#x153;What, havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t you ever heard of Zepplin?â&#x20AC;?

Me- â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yeah, but youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always got hockey.â&#x20AC;?

Rick- â&#x20AC;&#x153;Led Zeppelin? Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like an oldies band from the 80â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s?â&#x20AC;? He cut this bewildered look at me.

#ATES &AMILY -EAT #O

A wave of nausea washed over me. Poor kid, he probably thinks Zappa is some sort of Mexican cola.

His vacant orbs peered at me as if his brain were caught in some far away blizzard. Really, this was a complete waste of smart ass, cuz he had no idea what I was talking about. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not saying the guy was a mental midget, but the expression â&#x20AC;&#x153;battle of wits with an unarmed manâ&#x20AC;? certainly came to mind.

The locker room was beginning to look like a male strip club, when my guide to cart me off for my zamboni ride! This was pretty boring, truth be told. I mean, I’ve watched “Happy Gilmore” half-a-dozen times and had envisioned a whole love ballad serenade to “Endless Love,” or some other such. My zamboni guy didn’t even hum to me, much less offer to do any Ice Capades. It was cold, and loud, and aside from the fans thinking I was kind of a rock star ice-princess, it was on par with doing the yard on a riding lawnmower in the snow. It was still really awesome they asked me to do it, but not so much. With the game just starting, I was still at a loss for how to get all my interviews and inside scoop. The locker room hadn’t worked out so well, and I asked about sitting in the “dugout,” but it turns out they don’t keep it at the DCC. It’s all the way back in Memphis at the Redbird’s stadium. I finally had the brilliant idea to do interviews in the penalty box! I mean, what better place to catch the players one on one - no distractions! So, I’m sitting in the box waiting for the first player to “strike out” or whatever. Less than 10 minutes or so into the game # 5 Steve Slonina came brooding in. I sat at the opposite end of the box, snapping pictures. He glared at me, no doubt shocked that anyone would be in the box, much less a chick with a camera! Me- “So is this a good time to get an interview?” He slowly turned to face me, sweat glistening from the deep creases of his brow. He said nothing. Me- “So what’d you get penalized for?” He didn’t answer, just made some grunting sounds. Me- Are you angry? I mean, what do you feel like?”

www.memphissport.net | 39

Chic in the Field He took a swig from a water bottle and spit it out onto the floor, turned to me and made a surly face. I perked up Me- “Hey, will ya do that again? That was great! Could you make that face a bit bigger though, for the camera, you know, maybe growl at me?” He blinked his eyes hard and nearly choked on the water. Before he could thwack me to death with his stick, they opened the glass door and let him back in the game. The next guy entered the box in a flurry of obscenities. Evidently he didn’t like the ref ’s call. He was even less amused at the idea of “penalty box interviews.” My hockey version of “Penalty Box True Confessions” was beginning to look more like the famed documentary “Grizzly Man.” You know the one about the guy who gets eaten alive trying to cuddle the sweet looking bears. By the third quarter, I was ready to go home and go to bed. Who knew hockey was so long? The score was 4 to 4 and just seconds left on the clock. I was already fluffing my pillow when it occurred to me that they were probably going to head into overtime. Not only did they go into overtime, but they were still tied at the end of that and had to go into a “shootout.” This seemed to go on forever. I sat waiting for my pic of the winning score. Old Man RiverKings got out there, and as I watched

40 | Memphis Sport

through my camera lens, I felt it, the sporty fan DNA finally kicking in! I was rooting for a player! I wanted Old Man RiverKings to win the game! Not just win, I wanted him to smack the snot out of the other team’s goalie! I wanted him to puck him right in the teeth and then have the whole team take victory shots at him! I was caught in a blood thirsty fan rage, and I liked it! The seconds slowed and the clamor of the stadium narrowed into a pinpoint spotlight. The puck spun across the ice, cut past the goalie and made a slight sizzle as it blistered into the back of the net. The sound of cheering swelled like a wave, crushing, final; ending. RiverKings win!! Adrenalin pumped through my veins. I wanted to punch somebody, throw rocks at cars, go home and fight with a boyfriend! It was like liquid mean! So - What did I learn on my outing? Hockey isn’t about the puck, or making goals, or even teamsmanship. It’s about fighting. It’s about the thunderous rage of fans beating on the protective plexy till it buckles, rootless shin hacking, highsticking, cross-checking, and slew-footing. Good times for the whole family! It’s about love, no wait, I mean hate, and most importantly, mindless violence. Thank you Riverkings for a memorable night of unfocused rage and hostility that I will never forget.

GIVE AND GO

Charitable Vision Since 2001, the Memphis Grizzlies Charitable Foundation has invested over $20 million in the Greater Memphis community to serve Memphis youth. by JENNY KOLTNOW and ERIC BLEIER

he generosity of the Memphis Grizzlies Charitable Foundation has resulted in the development of Grizzlies Academy, a Memphis City School that gives kids at risk for dropping out a “second chance” to finish high school and go on to college. They also helped to provide exponential growth of Memphis Athletic Ministries, whose leagues and after-school programs have soared to over 13,000 participants and Stax Music Academy, whose after-school and summer programs have introduced hundreds of young people to extraordinary music and academic opportunities.

The Boys & Girls Clubs’ partnership with the Grizzlies and other corporate partners allows them to increase awareness as well as recruit mentors from these partners’ staff. Unique to Memphis, the Lifeline program will expand this year from four to six club sites across Memphis and aims to match adult mentors with 100 youth.

Their unprecedented level of giving and vision earned them national recognition with the 2007 Steve Patterson Award for Excellence and Leadership in Sports Philanthropy, awarded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and Sports Philanthropy Project.

“These children are being bounced around from one placement to another and have many disrupted relationships,” said Tangina Sanders, Mentor Coordinator with Youth Villages. “A mentor can serve as the one consistent person in their life who can follow them from placement to placement and help them through each of these transitions.”

After establishing strategic programs and fortifying existing organizations to reach youth most in need of help, the Grizzlies Foundation has turned its focus to youth mentoring– the facilitation of healthy relationships between kids and caring adults. “Fortunately, most kids have ‘natural mentors,’ such as a parent, a teacher or a coach. However, some do not. Kids may face tremendous odds, but when a caring, dependable adult is present, the likelihood of overcoming those odds is greatly increased,” says Jenny Koltnow, Executive Director of the Grizzlies Foundation. To see through this vision and provide more youth with mentors, the Grizzlies Foundation has developed partnerships with numerous local organizations, including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis. “The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis bring stability to children whose lives are interrupted with chaos,” said Lifeline Mentor Coordinator at Boys and Girls Clubs, Constance Tucker. “Our board members and organizations like the Grizzlies challenged the community to take mentoring on as an effective service to youth. We wanted to stand up and champion the cause.”

42 | Memphis Sport

The Grizzlies Foundation has also partnered with Youth Villages, an organization dedicated to helping youth in state foster care and those with emotional challenges caused by abuse.

The Grizzlies Foundation is also pursuing the support of the business community. As part of their National Mentoring Month festivities this January, they’ve invited NBA legend and national mentoring advocate Bill Russell to Memphis to serve as the keynote speaker for the TEAM UP Leadership Luncheon on January 30 to engage more employers in the youth mentoring movement. “We are asking individuals and businesses to devote their time. Just one hour a week can help kids develop the wherewithal they need to stay in school, stand up to peer pressure, and develop a healthy self-esteem,” says Koltnow. For more information on the Grizzlies Foundation, mentoring opportunities with Youth Villages, Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis, or other area organizations, or to receive an invitation to the Mentoring Luncheon on January 30, visit the Grizzlies Foundation’s website at www.grizzlies.com or email foundation@grizzlies.com for more information.

www.memphissport.net | 43

GET FIT

Get Fit With... The UofM’s Super Trainer

Richard Hogans pictured from left to right are Joey Dorsey, Chance McGrady, Chris Douglas-Roberts, Richard Hogans, and Antonio Anderson by ED LAND, JR. photo by SEAN DAVIS Gone are the days when college basketball programs could win on talent alone. No longer can coaches create winning streaks solely by installing great “X’s and O’s” game-plans. With the growth of NCAA basketball, there are more quality teams now than ever before. But to achieve or maintain elite status in college basketball, programs must find a competitive advantage in addition to but apart from inspirational recruiting and excellent coaching. Richard Hogans (a.k.a. “Big Rich”), Director of Performance Enhancement for U of M basketball, has played an integral role in that regard for the Tigers. A former Tiger football player and NFL standout with the Bears, Chargers and Jaguars, Hogans prepares his players to be stronger, faster, more explosive, healthier and in better condition than those against whom they will compete. He prepares the Tiger “ballers” for the physical demands and stresses they endure in striving for a

44 | Memphis Sport

National Championship. A Certified Personal Trainer through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, Hogans combines knowledge gained from professional strength coaches and team doctors with his own personal experience to design both individual and group training programs for all his players. These “Speed and Strength” programs (see next page) run year round, but are administered through off-season and in-season phases specifically with “March Madness” in mind. “I’ve been through so much in my career. I pushed myself so hard, and I suffered injuries time and again. I know how hard it is to compete at the highest levels. But I also now know how to stay healthy while doing it.” When it comes to the team, Hogans’ sincerity continues to shine. “I’m all about family. Before, football was my family. Now, these guys are family to me. They’re like my little brothers. I want to

give them the resources and knowledge I didn’t have, and I want to push them and encourage them as individuals. Each one of them is his own person.” It is clear why John Calipari trusts Hogans with the health and condition of his players. Given the Tigers’ successes since he came on board just a few seasons ago, it’s clear his program works quite well. As CDR exclaimed during our conversation with Hogans, “That’s the best trainer in the business right there!” We should think so CDR. You helped propel Memphis over Texas A&M and through to the Elite 8 less than a week after suffering a moderate ankle sprain. Now it all makes sense! For specific information on the Tigers’ “Speed and Strength” workout regimen, contact Richard Hogans at 901-678-5277.

Get Fit with Richard Hogans page 34 “Home Run” Clinic page 36 Nutrition: Eat More! page 38

Jump Like a Tiger page 35 Bodybuilding: Supplements page 38 Personal Training page 40

The Tigers Speed and Strength Programs GOALS 1. Reduce the chance of injury from strenuous activities. 2. Increase strength, muscular endurance and aerobic capacity. 3. Make positive changes in body composition. PRINICIPLES 1. Train all muscles, including abdomen, lower back, hips, legs, neck and “traps.” 2. Temporary muscular failure in each set of each exercise will increase strength. 3. All exercises should be completed in a controlled manner and using the full range of motion. 4. Difficulty must increase when short term goals are met. 5. Proper rest is required in between sets and in between workouts. No muscle should be trained twice in a 48 hour period. 6. Create variety in your exercise routine for maximum benefit and enjoyment. 7. Inconsistent effort will produce less than satisfactory results. 8. Nutrition is critical. Treat your body as your vessel. 9. Keep record of your progress. 10. You get out of it what you put into it! INDIVIDUAL FOCUS 1. Individuals possesses different strengths, weaknesses, goals and roles. 2. Individuals have unique personalities and varying levels of energy or motivation. 3. Individuals suffer from an assortment of injuries and maladies. NUTRITION 1. Eat frequently and consistently to gain strength, improve health and prevent fatigue. 2. To gain muscle strength, eat foods rich in protein. 3. To replenish energy sources, eat enough carbohydrates. This includes your everyday fruits and vegetables. 4. Supplements, including certain protein shakes and energy drinks, can be very beneficial.

Jump Like a Tiger by Michael Abshire PT, DPT

ith the approach of what could be one of the greatest seasons of Memphis Tiger basketball, you might be wondering, “how can I improve my game?” With the right training program, you too can become a power player like the boys in blue. One area you might want to focus on is improving your vertical jump. Athletes who are able to perform the vertical jump well often excel at their sport. The vertical jump is directly involved in many sporting activities, not just basketball. In order to train effectively for an athletic activity, training should closely resemble the activity itself. Explosive power in the lower extremities is essential for successful performance of the vertical jump. Therefore, to better train for athletic activity in which explosive power is important, training should incorporate some degree of plyometric exercise.

In plyometric exercises, the muscles that produce the force for the activity undergo a quick stretch to increase the power output, as in the landing phase of the vertical jump. Given the dynamics and intensity of plyometric exercises, athletes should be in generally good conditioning before incorporating them into their workouts. Plyometric training can be dangerous and lead to injury if the proper techniques and training regimens are not followed. If you are uncertain if plyometric exercise is appropriate for you, consult a physician and licensed physical therapist for assessment of your physical health and fitness. Here are some helpful tips for beginning a plyometric program: • Start with low intensity exercises. For example, master jumps over low objects before progressing to jumps (continued on page 37)

www.memphissport.net | 45

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Home Runâ&#x20AC;?

Clinic by ED LAND, JR

Â&#x2026;Ă&#x2026; Â Ă&#x2026;wĂ&#x2026;Ă&#x2026; Â Ă&#x2026; Ă&#x2026;

Many of you are aware Memphis typically hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fared well in nationwide health, fitness and nutritional testing. But did you know that 1 in 4 children ages 6-17 are at risk for obesity, hypertension, Type II diabetes, depression, heart disease, asthma and even some cancers? Did you realize the percentage of overweight children has doubled in the past 20 years?

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The Gameday Healthy Kids Foundation was designed by the late Mark H. Neel to educate and empower children to make wise choices, eat healthy and be involved in athletic activities on a regular basis. Now led by President Leigh Fox, its objectives are to instill a desire in children to be healthy, to make physical activity fun, to educate our youth on the benefits of being healthy and involved in sports, and provide an environment that promotes health and wellness for life.

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On October 20th, children from ages 6-12 gathered in Cordova at the Healthy Kids Clinic hosted by Gameday Baseball at First Tennessee Fields. This clinic provided the opportunity to present as many as 250 kids with nutritional, fitness and sports instruction in a high energy and fun atmosphere. A â&#x20AC;&#x153;Healthy Lifestyle Screeningâ&#x20AC;? was offered to participants and family members as was printed material focusing on obesity prevention and wellness. Fresh produce and healthy food and beverage options were available to all participants. M For more information on Gameday Baseball, First Tennessee Fields or the Healthy Kids Clinic, please visit www.gamedaybaseball.com.

46 | Memphis Sport

Jump (continued from page 35)

over higher objects, or master maximal double leg jumps before moving on to single leg jumps. • Perform plyometric training only two or three times per week. • Do not train when fatigued, such as after weight training or aerobic conditioning. • Limit your sets and repetitions appropriately (i.e. start with 3 or 4 sets with 10 reps each) • Rest between sets.

Ubee’s

To perform and measure the vertical jump: • Warm up properly. Complete several easy jumps and take rest breaks. • Stand with the side of your body toward a wall. Reach up as high as you can while keeping your feet flat on the floor. Record your reach height. • Move away from the wall slightly and jump as high as you can, using your arms and legs to help project your body upward. Touch the wall at the highest point of the jump. Record the height reached. • Repeat this multiple times, making sure to rest in between attempts. Stop when you notice a plateau or decrease in performance. • Calculate the “net height” by subtracting reach height from jump height. Remember plyometric activities are not appropriate for all individuals, so be safe, and ensure that your fitness level is adequate before adding plyometrics to your program. For more information on vertical jump performance, visit www.exrx.net/Lists/PowerExercises.html. Michael Abshire is a physical therapist who currently works in outpatient orthopedics at The Smith Clinic for Physical Therapy in Cordova, Tennessee.

DID YOU GET SOFT IN ’07? LOSE THE PUFF AND SHAPE UP THIS YEAR. When we round out the year, many of us tend to be a little rounder. Get a fresh start in the New Year at a DAC or DAC Fitness center near you. We’re personally invested in your health and betterment. From DAC personal training and specialized classes to DAC Fitness 24-hour facilities with state-of-the-art equipment, there’s a DAC that fits your life.

JOIN DAC NOW! GET A FREE 14-DAY TRIAL MEMBERSHIP TODAY! Find the DAC in your neighborhood at www.daclife.com.

www.memphissport.net | 47

PERSONAL TRAINING:

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The New Year’s Resolution by MANDY POLK Question: My New Year’s resolution for 2008 is not much different than it has been in years past. I want to shed pounds, add definition, and change my eating habits for good. How do I ensure that this year is different?

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Answer: Many times people will set out to make these changes for themselves with the best of intentions. You will head into your quest for physical perfection with the gusto and determination of Keri Strug performing her final vault in the 1996 Olympics. You are full-speed ahead, no holds barred, “go hard or go home” committed. You may purchase the South Beach Diet book, schedule exercise classes, promise yourself you will go to the gym every morning at 6 AM no matter what, and replace your Soprano’s DVD collection with Denise Austin’s “Yogalates” and “Power Aerobic Moves.” You say “This is the year, no matter what, I’m making it happen!!!” Then, the inevitable happens. It’s January 10th. You have an office dinner that you’re committed to, even though you don’t want to go because you seriously doubt that they’re serving South Beach approved cuisine. You begrudgingly appear, and decide since your diet’s gone and your plans to hit the gym are foiled, you might as well enjoy a cocktail to dull the edginess you’re experiencing as a result of having your plans ruined. One cocktail leads to socializing with Rick whose office is across the hall, who actually turns out to be a pretty cool guy, and his wife Lisa who loves this crab dip they’re serving, wouldn’t you like to try some? So two hours and three cocktails later, you actually find yourself laughing with your coworkers over the bananas foster, and this is after you’ve already thrown back some chicken parmesan and fettucini with a meat sauce marinara. Not to mention all the hors d’oeuvres you killed while you and Lisa were planning a much-needed shopping trip, which definitely cuts into your budget for your personal trainer. But hey, it’s the New Year, you’ve approached

48 | Memphis Sport

Mandy Polk is a professional fitness competitor and personal trainer. For more information contact Mandy Polk at fitmandy2000@yahoo.com.

your training with Rudy-like intensity for a whole ten days, you gotta live a little, right? Right?? Fast forward to the next morning. You slept through the alarm and the seven snoozes that followed. Gym is definitely not an option, and neither is your South Beach breakfast. Not only do you not have time to cook a three egg white omelette with spinach, mushrooms, and salsa with a side of oatbran and fresh squeezed apple juice, you couldn’t even stomach it if it was there for you. Considering you decided to stay out later and have a couple (okay a few) more drinks, breakfast consists of a few aspirin and a stop at Starbucks. Even if you wanted to plan to hit the gym AFTER work, you don’t even have time to pack your gym bag before you rush out the door to fight the crowd at the coffee shop so you can get your double mocha frapa-whipa-caramel latte. “Yogalates” is overrated anyway. You avoid Rick’s glance when you rush into work ten minutes late, because even though you don’t remember everything, you do remember that your rendition of Garth Brooks’ “Friends in Low Places” is better left to the shower-only collection. Any plans you made for gym or class or Denise Austin or South Beach are but a distant memory. This mistake is all too common in new trainees. They overschedule themselves while willpower and determination are at their highest, and neglect to acknowledge that the changes they’re making may not necessarily fit in their day-to-day living. Also, their plans lack specific direction and accountability. Follow this step-by-step procedure in order to experience success in your New Years transformation endeavors. Make sure you are truly ready for change. Willpower will only last for a few days,

maybe two weeks at most. This is the time that you join a gym, hire a trainer and/or find a training partner. If you opt for a training partner, try to find someone who’s been into it for a while. You want to know that someone will be waiting for you at the gym/park/etc. at a designated time no matter what. Accountability is key here. If you needed to overhaul your kitchen ASAP would you do it? Are you willing to spend time away from other parts of your life, get away from people who do not offer encouragement and support toward your vision, and devote at least five hours per week in your pursuit of fitness? These are important questions to ask yourself before you commit yourself to change. Implement some serious changes to your kitchen. There’s a fundamental law of human nature that I teach to my own personal clients and it goes like this: If a food is in your possession or located in your residence, you will eventually eat it. Regardless of what dietary strategy you decide to adopt, I suggest you use those guidelines to construct your shopping list and keep only those things in the house. Do not allow your family to convince you to keep other things in the house. They should be eating healthy as well. Be the leader and set the example. Perhaps develop a teamwork system, which leads us to step #3. Establish social support needed to achieve your goals. You need to surround yourself with some people who have common interests and goals in order to keep you motivated and accountable. Some examples could be:

a group exercise class, a training partner or group, a personal trainer, a family member on a similar program, etc. Most importantly, do not do not do not allow people to undermine you in your own house. Make it clear from the beginning that those who truly care about you will support your vision and the steps it takes to achieve it. Have specific goals. Goal setting is both a science and an art. While most people think that setting goals means just picking something you don’t have right now and going for it, there’s more to it than that. • Set goals that are specific and measurable. • Set goals that are challenging but realistic. Don’t get so ahead of yourself that you are overwhelmed at the measures required to achieve your next milestone. • Set short and long term goals. • Frame goals around behaviors, not outcomes. Make certain that your goals require certain objectives are met. Examples are: • I will eat approved foods 90% of the time and control my portion sizes. • I will perform three resistance training sessions a week. • I will perform two cardiovascular training sessions a week. • I will eat vegetables three times a day. • I will avoid alcohol. Knock down all of the barriers you may experience once willpower and excitement fade, because they will. You will renew your initial burst of enthusiasm, however, when you see results based on the steps you take in the very beginning of your journey. 2007 will be different because you will set it up to be different from the start. Remember to take it one day and one step at a time. Good luck!

www.memphissport.net | 49

50 | Memphis Sport

PRO TIPS

Learn the Four B’s For a More Powerful Serve

by KEITH EVANS photos courtesy of TUNICA NATIONAL

BASE: To get a good base before you ser ve, your feet and shoulders should be shoulder width apart with your left foot at an angle towards the target box and your right foot parallel to the baseline.

BALL TOSS: The ball tos s for a powerful flat ser ve should be about three fee and tossed at the one o’cloc t in front of you k position. This position allows the natura l movement of your right arm to swing fast thr ough the ball.

RIGHT

WRONG

RIGHT

WRONG

RIGHT

WRONG BACK: I call this the bac k position because it’s like a back scratching positi on. tennis balls and standing on Try taking some the baseline like you are going to ser ve. Take each ball and throw it in the box with your han d as Pay attention to the movem hard as you can. ent. It’s the same one you’ll want to feel wh en you’re ser ving.

RIGHT

WRONG

BALANCE: When hittin g any shot, not just a ser ve, your body has to feel relaxed and smooth. When you feel lik e you are uptight and awkward, you do not have balance. If you keep a good base, have a strong ball toss, and have the right stance for your back position, the feeling of being relaxed should com e naturally.

Finally, the number one thi ng to master for a powerfu l ser ve is racket speed! You and swing fast and freely to have to be relaxed have a gun for a ser ve. If you me at Tunica National for need help mastering these a lesson. skills, come see Keith Evans is the Director of Tennis at the Tunica Na tional Tennis Center and is ATP Tour. a former pro

on the

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HOT SHOTS Send your photos to hotshots@memphissport.net We just may print them in our next issue.

52 | Memphis Sport

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TAILGATING

49th Autozone Liberty Bowl December 29, 2007 photos by SEAN DAVIS

1. Adam Silas and Marlana Patton 2. Janie, Ricky and Amy Schappacher 3. Jordan Frazier, Shelby Tuttle and Abbey Goodman 4. Reid Stone, Ben Bachman and Jon Rousseau 5. Nicole and Heather Caplinger 6. Paige Roper, Ben Burkett and Sarah Smyly 7. Chad Grosscup and Mark Seymour 8. Keifer, Rob and Cooper Byrd 9. Dana Viox, Dale Viox and Julie Wall 10. Kristin Peekstock and Scott Vogel 11. Gary and Jenny White

54 | Memphis Sport

www.memphissport.net | 55

JACK’S BACK

the game of

breaking

news (plus, a little Jarvis Greer)

JACK EATON

ack in the days when I was the sports anchor on WMC-TV5 and did the play-by-play for Memphis State football and basketball games, I used my good offices to help out on recruiting. My favorite story concerns the recruiting of Mackie Don Smith. Mackie Don was a 6’8” forward from Booneville, Mississippi. He shot the ball like very few 6’8” players could do, so as you might suspect, he was on everyone’s list. Dean Ehlers was the Tigers’ coach, and he did a heck of a job recruiting Mackie Don. The idea was that we would sign the kid on Saturday and then try to keep it a secret until Monday night, as we wanted to break the story on TV, complete with interviews and “B” roll of Mackie Don at home. So we piled in the Channel 5 news car and took off for Booneville. We arrived and set to work getting film of Mackie Don shooting hoops at home. After the usual “signing the scholarship” shot, we swore everyone to secrecy and came home. What we didn’t know was that a newspaper reporter from some Mississippi town got wind of our plan and broke the story early. So by 10 p.m. Monday night it was old news—but boy how we tried.

56 | Memphis Sport

The next thing Dean and I tried worked a lot better. Mike Butler, an all-star guard from Kingsbury, agreed to become a Tiger but no one told anyone about it. Dean and I were determined to make it a big deal—after all, Butler was the top prospect in the state. So here is how it went: when we came back from a

Everyone

wanted to know where Butler was going, and we answered the question live and in black and white on Channel 5. commercial, there I was live with Mike, his mother and father, and Coach Ehlers. Everyone wanted to know where Butler was going, and we answered the question live and in black and white on Channel 5. It was a blockbuster—we were back in the game of breaking news. My other favorite recruiting memory is of when Keith Lee put out the word that he was going to Arkansas State. Dana Kirk was our coach at the time, and he didn’t let Keith’s focus on Arkansas State stop his

efforts to sign him. So Coach Kirk asked if I would go over to West Memphis, interview Keith, and get in a little sales pitch while I was there. When I called the Lee house, his mother answered and told me he was going to Arkansas State. I told her I just wanted to interview him. She said she would think about it and that I should call back in a few days. So I called back as instructed, and she said I could come over at eight that night but he was going to Arkansas State. That Monday night, Jarvis Greer and my son Todd piled into the van with me and we set out for West Memphis. I knocked on the front door, and Mrs. Lee opened it and said, “Keith is going to Arkansas State.” When I interviewed him, he said the same thing. It was tough to even get a sound byte without him saying some thing about Arkansas State. I didn’t get much of a chance to plug the Tigers, but I did what I could. Of course, Keith eventually did sign with the Tigers and had a great career. I’m not sure how much difference that visit made, but I like to think I helped a little bit anyway.

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