editor’s note
PUBLISHING CEO & PUBLISHER Carnell Moore
EDITORIAL
MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Dufek CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Matthew Burk Ben Delanoy Monique Davis Dotson Jennifer Dufek Brandi Maxson Gettert Robert Hogerheide C. Douglas McIntire PHOTOGRAPHY Scott D. Conklin Jonathan Downing Luke Golden Andrew Patron
ADVERTISING / MARKETING ADVERTISING & MARKETING DIRECTOR Ben Delanoy Shana Daniels Tracey Sullivan For advertising info contact: advertise@premierplayers.com To submit editorial & ideas contact: editor@premierplayers.com PO Box 341064 Tampa, FL 33694 800.470.0250
Growing up as a child in Cleveland, I was never really an avid sports fan. I remember fondly my first game experience. It was one of the first few games played at the new stadium, Jacob’s Field in Cleveland, Ohio. Looking back, I never thought sports would influence my life as much as they have...and never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be pursuing a career with a sports magazine. Whether it’s the smell of popcorn and hot dogs, while listening to fans cheer or the rush from after playing a softball or soccer game to meeting new people at the bar as I anxiously follow my favorite college football team. I think so many people under estimate the influence that sports have in our lives. They can teach us everything from goal setting, business, courage, determination and persistence and teamwork to honesty, forgiveness and desire. Today I am very excited to share our first issue with you and bring fans and athletes together to discover the athlete in each of us, share stories and see what it takes to become a Premier Player.
www.premierplayers.com AP Photos:
Pg 4 - Tony Dejak, Pg 5 - Alberto Raggio, Mark Humphrey, Pg 7 - Elise Amendola, Andy King, Dave Kennedy, Pg 9 - Themba Hadebe, Pg 10 - Michel Spingler, Pg 12 - Charles Rex Arbogast, Pg 13 - Jon Super, Pg 14 - Winslow Townson, Pg 15 - David Ramos, Pg 19 - David Zalubowski, Pg 20 - Andy King, Pg 21 - Andy King, Pg 23 - Marcio Jose Sanchez.
Cover shot of Tyrone Williams, taken by Jonathan Downing.
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PREMIER PLAYERS
Jennifer Dufek Managing Editor
features & departments
20 13
features
6 Becoming a
Premier Player
9 Rugby...It’s Not Just a Sport
departments
15 12 Product Review 18 Rivalry 19 Bloodline
Where Are They Now? Watch List
11 Cappie Pondexter 13 Cricket Anyone? 15 World Cup Tear Out 20 Gettin’ Off-Season With
26 Music 28 Player’s Ink
22 Athletes & Yoga
29 Community
Adrian Peterson
Best/Worst Official Take PREMIER PLAYERS
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Becoming a
Premier Player by Matthew Burk
Wouldn’t you like to be a Premier Player? Want to know what it takes to make it all the way? What better way than actually ask a few Premier Players how they do it. We talked to a few top athletes to see how they stay on top of their game and to see what they had to say to inspire the rest of us. Some would think that being a Premier Player is all about the skill, but many would be willing to dispute that myth. So who are a few Premier Players? Well, why not start with Tyrone Williams...who played for the Green Bay Packers (37), Atlanta Falcons and Dallas Cowboys, and has an amazing collection of Championship and Superbowl rings. To add to the list we have, LeBron, Adrian Peterson and Bill Romanowski to give you their take on being a Premier Player. It’s not all about the game, but making sure your head is in the game as well. 6
PREMIER PLAYERS
In Photo: Tyrone Williams
“It’s about staying focused,
determined and being an unselfish player. There is a lot of pressure put on me, but I don’t put pressure on myself. You can’t let it get to you.” - LeBron James
“It takes extreme dedication, hardwork,
a little bit of luck and more hardwork and focus. All I ever wanted to do was be on the field and play football.”
- Bill Romanowski
“Takes a lot of drive and hard work. You
have to keep working harder than the next guy and can’t let anything stand in your way.” - Adrian Peterson PREMIER PLAYERS
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good sports Stories of how sports have changed the lives of so many
NFL Cheerleader to Vet Nancy Moore was adopted at a very early age and sports were a very big part of her life. She was part of a swim team and loved playing shortstop for a fast-pitched softball team in Lincoln, NE. However, it was her skills in gymnastics and dance that helped her become a cheerleader for the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League. Faced with joining the National Basketball Association’s Phoenix Suns’ dance squad or following her academic dream, Dr. Moore decided to take on the extra work to complete a doctorate degree in veterinarian medicine at the University of Florida by age 25. However, still in the health & fitness mode when she got to Gainesville, she won the first University of Florida Women’s Bodybuilding Contest. Today, Dr. Moore enjoys reading and spending time with her husband and kids. Two years ago, she founded the Good Night Club where they spend evening time reading to children at orphanages before bedtime. she also enjoys working with other families to establish the F.A.C.E.S. (For A Child’s Eternal Salvation) ministry at Idlewild Baptist Church to assist those who want to mentor, foster or adopt children. To find out more about the Good Night Club, you can visit www.idlewild.org/goodnightclub Visit www.premierplayers.com to learn more about the Premier Players Sports Foundation and to upload stories to us about how sports have changed and touched your lives.
‘fan’atic Fan Mail
m
If you have something you would like to ask or share with Premier Players feel free to drop us a line at: editor@premierplayers.com We look forward to hearing from you! 8
PREMIER PLAYERS
Heart of a Student Athlete...
Some All-Pro Advice Worth Reading by Matthew Burk
No one person alone can accomplish what a team can. During a time when professional athletes seem to make headlines often for things that they shouldn’t, Karl Mecklenburg is a beacon of light. Former captain of the Denver Broncos with appearances in six Pro Bowls and three Super Bowls, Mecklenburg has built a life beyond football and motivates thousands of people of all ages. This book is funny, easily read and has lots of insider stories on and off the field.
Rugby
it’s not just a sport... by C. Douglas McIntire
T
hroughout your life, have you ever heard a car crash in the distance and get that far off, dreamy look in your eyes? Have you found yourself surfing channels in hope of catching a glimpse of some act of random violence? Have you ever slapped a complete stranger in public with a mild look of bemusement on your face? It’s not that you’re a bad person. You were simply born a rugby fan and had yet to be baptized in the blood and mud that makes up perhaps the roughest sport to ever shun protective gear. Now, I know what you’re saying, “It’s a foreign sport. I don’t understand it. It confuses me.” Well, knowledge is power, my friend so keep reading. Rugby has been on U.S. soil since an 1873 match between Montreal’s McGill University and Harvard where those Harvard boys readily handed McGill their posterior and sent them packing. Besides, why should being from another country matter? It’s not like they’re flashing subtitles on the jumbo-tron to distract you from the action. Let’s look at the big six from the Six Nations Rugby Tournament: Ireland, Scotland, Wales, England, France, and Italy. In four out of the six competing nations, English is spoken everywhere although, granted you may not think so listening to an announcer. With terms such as scrum, try-zone, ruck, maul, knock-on, grubber, and Gary Owen, it’s perfectly natural for an American to mute the broadcast and play a more
familiar soundtrack: “And they’re out of the huddle (scrum) and it looks like they’re going to go for it (the try-zone). Here’s the snap (pitch), and the kick (Gary Owen) received by Owens (not Gary) and in for a touch down (try). And the crowd goes wild.” When you really think of it, what’s not to love for the American audience? There are giants colliding on a field of battle that are not armor covered and stopping the action every seven seconds for commercials, time outs, getting back on line, or jock adjustments. Besides, giant people with no front teeth should cause little stir in the States; hockey has been here for years. We even share it with our neighbors to the north. The fact is that rugby was once played and somewhat popular on our shores before it was removed as an Olympic sport in 1924. Prior to that, the U.S. took gold in ’20 and ’24. There have been gains in popularity in both the ‘70s and ‘80s and a steady climb since. Under the auspices of USA Rugby the sport has become more organized and diligently governed with a seat on the United States Olympic Committee, and the International Rugby Board. USA Rugby is now about 75,000 members strong and dedicated to the growth of their sport among men, women, and youth. So come on, step outside the line of scrimmage, and check out some rugby action. National Rugby Week is May 29 through June 5. Celebrate a little gratuitous violence with the ones you love. PREMIER PLAYERS
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Sweden’s Robin Soderling returns the ball to Spain’s Albert Montanes during a third round match of the French Open tennis tournament at the Roland Garros stadium in Paris, Friday, May 28, 2010.
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PREMIER PLAYERS
PONDEXTER
cappie Makin’ Her Move by Matthew Burk
Cappie Pondexter has never shied away from taking risks. As a junior at Chicago’s John Marshall High the 5’9” guard had the WNBA logo tattooed on her right arm, along with the words THE FUTURE. In the decade since, not only has she made good on that prediction, but the three-time All-Star has also won an Olympic gold medal (2008) and two WNBA titles with the Mercury (‘07 and ‘09). Last fall Pondexter decided it was time to expand her aspirations beyond the WNBA, so she initiated her trade from Phoenix to New York to better develop her burgeoning fashion business. “I’m very ambitious,” says Pondexter, who landed with New York as part of a three-team deal on March 30. “If I believe strongly in something, I’m going to do whatever it takes to pursue it and get it done.”
Pondexter will be reunited with two former Rutgers teammates, center Kia Vaughn and guard Essence Carson. She’ll also be joined by two other offseason acquisitions who are familiar with success: forward Nicole Powell, who won a title with the Monarchs in ‘05, and center Taj McWilliams, who helped the Shock win the ‘08 championship. Pondexter, who can play both guard spots and is able to defend any position in a pinch, says leadership may be the biggest asset she brings to New York. “I really want to lead this team,” she says. “It’ll be a challenge, but I’m ready for it.” Off the court, New York’s diversity and perpetual hum are calling to Pondexter. “I’m a city girl; I love noise,” she says. “I can fall asleep with the window open.” With so many realms to conquer, who’s going to have time to sleep?
After averaging 19.2 points, 3.7 rebounds and 4.1 assists in her four years playing in the shadow of 2009 league MVP Diana Taurasi in Phoenix, PREMIER PLAYERS
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gear / reviews
TRI 3 BAR Chances are you have never heard of Gatorade’s G Series Pro. That’s because it was only available in professional locker rooms and specialized training facilities, where only the best used it to reach new heights, or at the very least, quench their thirst. Now with their alliance with GNC, you can now get your G Series Pro to improve your game. It contains protein, carbs, electrolytes, vitamins and minerals in the ratio necessary for peak performance. If you want to know how the athletes do it...this is how. A shot by Philadelphia Flyers left wing Simon Gagne, not shown, gets past Chicago Blackhawks goalie Antti Niemi (31), of Finland, in the third period of Game 2 of the Stanley Cup hockey finals on Monday, May 31, 2010, in Chicago. In front of Niemi are Blackhawks’ defenseman Duncan Keith (2) and Flyers’ center Jeff Carter (17).
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The Aline Perfomance insoles were reviewed by 3 different test subjects. 1. Long distance runner, 2. Semi-Pro football player 3. Personal trainer. All said the insoles were stiff at first and had reservations due the rigidity of the insoles, but after a short period of timeone to two hours the insole fit perfectly and all subjects experienced a noticeable increase in release from the balls of the feet. The insole arch allowed more spring in their step and all reviewed favorably and continued to use the product.
3BAR isn’t filled with unnecessary ingredients. In fact, it’s engineered to contain exactly what your body needs to re-fuel. So what did people have to say that tried them? Out of all the flavors, Tropical was the favorite. The women that had sampled these bars, said that they weren’t hungry afterwards and would use it as a meal replacement. 3BAR is a balanced nutrient-dense product to give you the most energy, and you will feel naturally energized from it! For more info visit www.e-fitfood.com.
CAnybody? ricket by C. Douglas McIntire
Ah, the smell of the grass, the batter has taken the field and a jubilant if not raucous crowd has gathered on another sunny afternoon. Yep, it’s cricket season again. Hey now, before your eyes glaze over and drift over to the shiny advertisement on the other page, let’s give this thing a chance. After all, it wasn’t long ago that American audiences yawned at football…I mean, soccer. Perhaps cricket is yet another sleeping giant that the international community has embraced before us. In fact, while the rest of us were following Tampa Bay or the Lakers, cricket history was being made in humble Lauderhill, Florida. Over the weekend of May 22-23, New Zealand and Sri Lanka fielded their best here in the U.S. for the first ever ICC full member competition. It was all part of the ICC Twenty 20 competition; a form of cricket formed in the U.K. in 2003. In Twenty 20, two teams compete in a match lasting 3 ½ hours with innings of 75 minutes; roughly the length of most televised sporting events. It truly is made-for-TV cricket or should I say, not your mum’s cricket? But really, T20 was developed in response to dwindling interest in traditional cricket and its longer game times. Media people were brought in to assess the situation and make it more spectator friendly. After all,audiences weren’t the only ones fleeing the fields; sponsors too, found it difficult to justify the expense. In a British version of “sexing things up”, the game was shortened to keep up with attention spans, sponsors were appeased to keep the money flowing, and an international cup was established. Sounding more American already, isn’t it?
Don Lockerbie, chief executive of USA Cricket sees this match as a golden opportunity. With an estimated 15 million cricket fans in America, he hopes a regular presence of international teams will be just the nudge his organization needs. Lockerbie’s plan is to draw the best to America to show the doubters just how exciting the new T20 format can be. Come on, guys it’s the Beckham principle. The New Zealand Black Caps are on board and have already made a commitment to return annually to the States as well as provide grassroots support for the sport. Justin Vaughn of New Zealand Cricket sees a partnership of sorts with USA Cricket to bring some of the world’s top players here. By the end of the weekend, the match ended diplomatically, lest hasty U.S. fans glom onto the first victor on American soil. New Zealand held the field on Saturday, while a relieved Sri Lankan team evened things up on Sunday by seven wickets. The details, the players, and the behind the scenes drama of each club somehow fade into the ether when discussing a sport as foreign to Americans as Peruvian Guinea Pig Tossing but how foreign is it really? While most Americans have grown up at least knowing that cricket exists, we remain reluctant to learn anything of sports beyond our own borders. Is it a collective fear of entering into an arena as a novice or simply that, in our brief history, we’ve become set in our ways? If Don Lockerbie and Justin Vaughn have any say, we’ll be opening our eyes to international cricket tournaments on ESPN in no time. PREMIER PLAYERS
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Boston Celtics forward Kevin Garnett looks to drive the lane and lead his team in the NBA Finals over Kobe Bryant and the LA Lakers as the storied rivalry continues! 14
PREMIER PLAYERS
Messiah Messi by C. Douglas McIntire
Small, irritating, and seemingly everywhere at once: la pulga, the flea. I never did get to the bottom of where he earned the nickname but no doubt, his rivals are at no loss for adjectives. Since the tender age of seventeen, Messi has continually amazed crowds and defied physics in his ascension to footballer superstardom. Born in Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina in 1987, Lionel Andres Messi turned pro at an early age earning the FIFPro Young Player of the Year Award three times from ’05-’08 and twice a runner up for the FIFA World Player of the Year Award. Messi was quickly scooped up by Barcelona, who has a lock on their star until 2014 to the tune of 9.5 million Euros a year. Now granted, that’s not an MLB or NBA top salary, but you can’t put a price on love, and football fans take that rabid kind of love to scary ex-significant other stalker proportions. Currently on loan to his homeland of Argentina, Messi faces love, and uncertainty in this summer’s World Cup in South Africa. While Argentineans are eager to cheer on their beloved La Pulga from afar, there are many who feel Messi becomes a little lackadaisical away from the bright lights of Barcelona. While conceding that everyone is entitled to their own opinions, Messi stands by his performance claiming, “I’m the first person who wants to do well with my national team and perform like I do with Barcelona. I know that this is a really good opportunity for me and I’m going to try to do it.” It isn’t going to be easy though, and although Messi thinks Argentina stands a real chance in South Africa, he remains quite candid regarding his thoughts on the frontrunners, “I think that, right now, the strongest sides going into the World Cup are Spain, England and Brazil. England had a strong, easy qualifying and are very tough.” Superstar or not, Messi has his work cut out for him; convincing the home crowd his heart isn’t still revolving around a baggage claim in Barcelona while adapting to a new team, a new coaching style, and still perform the same magic he makes appear so flawless in Barcelona.
JUNE 11
[A] SOUTH AFRICA VS. MEXICO [A] URUGUAY VS. FRANCE
JUNE 12
[B] SOUTH KOREA VS. GREECE [B] ARGENTINA VS. NIGERIA [C] ENGLAND VS. USA
JUNE 13
[C] ALGERIA VS. SLOVENIA [D] SERBIA VS. GHANA [D] GERMANY VS. AUSTRALIA
JUNE 14
[E] NETHERLANDS VS. DENMARK [E] JAPAN VS. CAMEROON [F] ITALY VS. PARAGUAY
ESPN ESPN
10 AM 2:30 PM
ESPN ESPN ABC
7:30 AM 10 AM 2:30 PM
ESPN ESPN ABC
7:30 AM 10 AM 2:30 PM
ESPN ESPN ESPN
7:30 AM 10 AM 2:30 PM
ROUND OF 16
QUARTERFINAL
JUNE 26
JULY 2
JUNE 15
[F] NEW ZEALAND VS. SLOVAKIA [G] IVORY COAST VS. PORTUGAL [G] BRAZIL VS. NORTH KOREA
JUNE 16
[H] HONDURAS VS. CHILE [H] SPAIN VS. SWITZERLAND [A] SOUTH AFRICA VS. URUGUAY
JUNE 17
[B] ARGENTINA VS. SOUTH KOREA [B] GREECE VS. NIGERIA [A] FRANCE VS. MEXICO
JUNE 18
[D] GERMANY VS. SERBIA [C] SLOVENIA VS. USA [C] ENGLAND VS. ALGERIA
ESPN ESPN ESPN
7:30 AM 10 AM 2:30 PM
ESPN ESPN ESPN
7:30 AM 10 AM 2:30 PM
ESPN ESPN ESPN2
7:30 AM 10 AM 2:30 PM
ESPN ESPN ESPN2
7:30 AM 10 AM 2:30 PM
SEMIFINAL
FI
JULY 6
JUL
1A 2B
ESPN 10 AM ESPN 2:30 PM
1C 2D
ABC 2:30 AM
ESPN 2:30 PM
JUNE 28
ABC
1E 2F
ESPN 10 AM
1G 2H
THIRD-PL
ESPN 10 AM
ESPN 2:30 AM
I N R O U N D 1 6 , G R O U P W I N N E R S P L AY S E C O N D - P L A C E T E A M S F R O M O P P O S I N G G R O U P S
JU ABC
11
JUNE 19
[E] NETHERLANDS VS. JAPAN [D] GHANA VS. AUSTRALIA [E] CAMEROON VS. DENMARK
JUNE 20
[F] SLOVAKIA VS. PARAGUAY [F] ITALY VS. NEW ZEALAND [G] BRAZIL VS. IVORY COAST
JUNE 21
[G] PORTUGAL VS. NORTH KOREA [H] CHILE VS. SWITZERLAND [H] SPAIN VS. HONDURAS
JUNE 22
[A] MEXICO VS. URUGUAY [A] FRANCE VS. SOUTH AFRICA [B] NIGERIA VS. SOUTH KOREA [B] GREECE VS. ARGENTINA
ESPN ESPN ABC
7:30 AM 10 AM 2:30 PM
ESPN ESPN ABC
7:30 AM 10 AM 2:30 PM
ESPN ESPN ESPN
7:30 AM 10 AM 2:30 PM
ESPN ESPN2 ESPN2 ESPN
10 AM 10 AM 2:30 PM 2:30 PM
JUNE 23
[C] SLOVENIA VS. ENGLAND [C] USA VS. ALGERIA [D] GHANA VS. GERMANY [D] AUSTRAILIA VS. SERBIA
JUNE 24
[F] SLOVAKIA VS. ITALY [F] PARAGUAY VS. NEW ZEALAND [E] DENMARK VS. JAPAN [E] CAMEROON VS. NETHERLANDS
JUNE 25
[G] NORTH KOREA VS IVORY COAST [G] PORTUGAL VS. BRAZIL [H] SWITZERLAND VS. HONDURAS [H] CHILE VS. SPAIN
ESPN ESPN2 ESPN ESPN2
10 AM 10 AM 2:30 PM 2:30 PM
ESPN2 ESPN ESPN2 ESPN
10 AM 10 AM 2:30 PM 2:30 PM
QUARTERFINAL
ROUND OF 16
JULY 7
JULY 3
JUNE 27 1D ESPN 10 AM
ABC 10 AM
2C 1B
ABC 2:30 PM
2A
JUNE 29
ESPN 2:30 PM
1F
E GAME
0 PM
10 AM 10 AM 2:30 PM 2:30 PM
SEMIFINAL
0 PM
10
ESPN2 ESPN ESPN ESPN2
ESPN 10 AM ABC 2:30 PM
2E 1H
ESPN 2:30 PM
2G
m ’ k c e h C Out! by Brandi Maxson Gettert
Real Madrid’s Rafael Van der Vaart from The Netherlands, right, duels for the ball with Barcelona’s Gaby Milito of Argentina during their La Liga soccer match at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid.
FC Barcelona’s scores Lionel Messi of Argentina his goal against Real Madrid during a Spanish La Liga soccer match at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid.
2010 FC Barcelona MVP Juan Carlos Navarro and 2010 Real Madrid MVP Felipe Reyes will rip into each other at the FIFA World Cup tournament scheduled to take place between June 11, 2010 and July 11, 2010. With extensive media scrutiny, feverish fan focus and popular entertainmenttechnology support, Real Madrid and FC Barcelona have new fuel to add to their long-standing (100+ years!!!) rivalry fire. This Futbol rivalry came to the world scene in the 1960s when the two teams competed twice at the European cup, Real Madrid winning in 1960 and F.C. Barcelona winning in 1961. The rivalry is so well known and widely recognized as to be referred to as “el Clasico” by fans and media worldwide. With disputes of player acquisitions and defections, the lines of loyalty often blur, fueling the hardcore rivalry to near riotous proportions and is nothing short of a daytime drama played out on European soccer fields. Soccer has caught the attention of mainstream media with the help of team rivalries like Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. With Real Madrid ranked Number 1 and FC Barcelona ranked a very close Number 2, even new fans find themselves caught up in the ninja-like skills of the players and the guerilla warfare on the field. With entertainment-technology companies like EA Sports capitalizing on the overwhelming worldwide interest in soccer, even gamers can compete on FIFA World Cup South Africa ™ as Navarro or Reyes, stay on top with score updates, schedules and information in real-time streaming, and online game play. Will Real Madrid destroy FC Barcelona? Or will FC Barcelona stomp a mud-hole in Real Madrid? Stay tuned…we’ll all find out soon enough.
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PREMIER PLAYERS
watchlist
bloodlines
Tampa Yankees
Ray & Ryan Bourque
CORBAN JOSEPH
WALTER IBARRA
Corban, from Tennessee, is a 2nd & 3rd baseman number: 2 BIGGEST CHALLENGE: Defense In his off time: Likes to get in a little fishing quote/thoughts: Following your dreams isn’t easy, but it’s about doing what you love.
Walter, originally from NE part of Mexico, is a 3rd baseman number: 25 BIGGEST CHALLENGE: Focusing on being patient & improve hitting and leading off In his off time: Likes to make his way to the beach quote/thoughts: Stay with it and do what you really want to do in life. Don’t give up.
HECTOR NOESI
Hector, from the Dominican Republic is a pitcher number: 74 BIGGEST CHALLENGE: Controlling his zone In his off time: Like to eat at Seasons 52 quote/thoughts: You can’t predict the future, but you can stick with what you enjoy doing and keep doing that.
where are they now? Everyone remembers the name, and “the shot” beating the buzzer against Kentucky, but what happened to Christian after those on-court heroics. Christian got drafted 3rd overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 1993, and went through a myriad of NBA teams during his 12-year NBA career. So where is he is now? Christian is married with 3 children (2 daughters and a son). He co-owns “Blue Devil Ventures” with former Duke teammate Brian Davis. Blue Devil Ventures is an investment company which purchases, renovates and restores old Durham area buildings for residences and retail shops. Christian hasn’t forgot his roots in sports however, as he was part owner of the DC United soccer franchise in 2009 and is major benefactor to Duke Athletics.
A
nother great sports legacy continued when Ryan Bourque, son of NHL Hall of Famer Ray Bourque, was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2009 draft by the New York Rangers. Father, Ray, still holds the NHL record for goals, assists, and points scored by a defenseman. Big skates to fill, and standing only at 5’9”, Ryan is more than willing to do just that. “I did have games where I broke out and kind of played really well offensively,” said Bourque. “I like to be a two-way forward, but … the league in Quebec is a pretty offenseoriented league, and next year one of my focuses is to be a lot more consistent with (scoring). I want to be able to bring it offensively night in and night out. I think this year helped me to adjust, so hopefully I’ll be able to do that next year.” On the USA squad for the World Junior Championships, Ryan was a major contributor to toppling the Canadian team en route to the gold. Ryan eerily resembles Ray at 20 years of age, but only time will tell if he can emulate his father’s play during his professional career....and hopefully he won’t have to wait the 1,825 games that his proud pop did to get his hands on Lord Stanley’s Cup! PREMIER PLAYERS
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H T I W
N O N S ’ O R N I S E T A T T E E E G FF-S AN P O DRI A rt
tte
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A Premier Players Riddle:
He’s a 6’2”, 218 pound Native Texan. He was 2008 NFL Pro Bowl MVP, 2008 Offensive Rookie of the Year, 2007 NFL AP Offensive Rookie of the Year, 2007 Diet Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Year, and winner of Two 2007 Player of the Month awards. His purple, gold and white jersey is emblazoned with number 28. Who is he?
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PREMIER PLAYERS
Answer:
’ s g ! t n i i t ik o v g a t u Yo inneso The M ing back on runn n peters adria
Recently, Adrian Peterson sat down with Premier Players for a laid back interview about his offseason lifestyle. PP: Adrian, thanks for agreeing to sit down for a few minutes and speak with us so what’s been going on with you? What do you do in the off-season? AP: Just training staying in shape, ya know? Just got back from South Africa, which was an unbelievable experience. PP: Sounds amazing. What did you do down there?
PP: Looking back at any point in your career thus far, is there anything that stands out? AP: Rookie of the Year in 2008 Setting an NFL single-game rushing record with 296 yards against the San Diego Chargers in Week 9, Peterson additionally set a record for most rushing yards with 1036 yards through the first eight games. PP: That’s an honor not many achieve and you only get one shot. That drive and hard work paid off huh?
AP: We toured everywhere and went into remote AP: Yes, sir. villages and spent time with different families. It was something I will never forget! PP: Rumor has it that you have a death grip of a handshake…is that sports On a tour to promote American football, reporters being, well…. sports reporters, Peterson visited South Africa, playing soccer with or is that true? local children at schools like Mzamomhle Primary AP: (laughs) I have a firm handshake….that’s School in Phillipi on the outskirts of Cape Town. what I was raised to do. He also visited Uganda and other parts of South Africa for charity and a safari. PP: Bet you’re not as firm when you shake PP: Did any of your other teammates accompany you? AP: No teammates, but Tommie Harris (Bears). PP: Really? So you travel around the world with a DT from the same division whose job it is to drive you into the ground?
Favre’s hand huh? AP: He’s a tough guy….he can take it. PP: Not disputing that, he’s broken many a finger himself with those missiles he fires. So what’s up with Brett….any inside info?
committed to the 2010 season. PP: Well what do you think he will do? AP: I don’t know. We all hope he’ll return to camp. He’s our leader. PP: Think you guys will go all the way if he returns? AP: Yes, sir. PP: If he doesn’t what are your chances? AP: (laughs) PP: Ok, I’m not trying to goad you into anything. What is it like knowing that you are playing with possibly the greatest QB of all time? AP: Incredible….it’s amazing how guys hang on his every word and step up his play for him. I heard it before and he is a field general. PP: Do you have any personal goals for next season?
AP: Only Brett knows what he wants to do, I can’t speak for him.
AP: Same as everyone I think….to win the Super Bowl.
With constant media attention, Favre lead the Vikings to an NFC championship game before losing to the New Orleans Saints. In a recent AP: Takes a lot of drive and hard work. You have pep-talk at the Target Center, Favre stated 2009 to keep working harder than the next guy and “the best season I’ve ever had”. Unfortunately can’t let anything stand in your way. with a recent ankle surgery, Favre still hasn’t
PP: Well I appreciate your time, I know you have to run. Can we get you back when you guys win the Super Bowl next year?
AP: (laughs) Yeah man, Tommie’s a good guy. PP: What do you think it takes to become a Premier Player?
AP: Definitely. PP: Thanks man, look forward to it! PREMIER PLAYERS
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fitness
thletes
A
& yoga by Monique Davis Dotson
Y
oga is the practice of physical postures performed in a sequence connecting breath and movement. The word yoga means union; each posture or asana unifies the mind-body connection. Yoga focuses on proper alignment, posture, flexibility, stamina and strength. Yoga is sometimes thought of as a gentle relaxation exercise; however yoga has many components. It is a physical practice that detoxifies the body and mind while adding flexibility, stamina, and strength. Athletes like Le Bron James (Cleveland Cavaliers), Phil Jackson (Los Angeles Lakers), Kareem Abdul Jabar (HOF-Los Angeles Lakers), Kevin Garnett (Boston Celtics), Eddie George (Former NFL All Pro), Jon Kitna (Dallas Cowboys), Pete Sampras (tennis), and Serena Williams (tennis) incorporate yoga into their sports training. Yoga improves your athletic performance & it is the perfect way to ensure overall health and physical fitness. Here are a several benefits yoga can bring to your sport, no matter what it is: 1
Improves Flexibility
Increasing your flexibility with yoga leads to a greater range of motion while relieving muscle tension. Yoga increases flexibility and reduces the risk of injury because it increases lubrication of joints, ligaments, and tendons of the body. Your body has freedom to move into the necessary positions for your sport. Therefore the athlete can compete at their optimal level of performance.
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Improves Balance & Posture
An athlete moves in quick movements which causes improper balance in the body. Yoga helps to improve posture with poses that naturally align the spine. A flexible and aligned body is one of the main principles of yoga. Proper alignment creates balance, which benefits the athlete with a quicker reaction to their sport. Balance impacts every aspect of how you move, especially in
sports where you are expected and challenged to be the best.
“Yoga improves your athletic performance...�
3
Increases Strength
Yoga uses your own body as lifted weight. Traditional weight lifting focuses on strengthening one or two muscles at a time, yoga postures use every muscle in the body simultaneously. Your overall sense of strength is improved and your body moves without effort. Yoga increases core strength by strengthening the mid-section, which is needed for proper balance. 4
Improves Your Awareness
In yoga you create a union of the mind & body. You become aware of your body as you connect breath and movement. The athlete uses this same awareness of their mind, body connection to make a successful play. 5
Reduces Stress
A significant benefit of yoga is the effect it has on reducing stress. An athlete’s level of stress can affect their athletic performance. Our bodies hold stress in the hips, neck, back, hamstrings, and almost every area of our body. This causes muscles tensions, which decreases flexibility and energy. Muscles stress increases the risk of injury
to an athlete. Yoga helps release stress in your body and mind so the body has more freedom to perform efficiently. 6
Proper Breath Control
Pranayama is the breath control performed in yoga. It is a breath that brings awareness and focus to the conscious mind and body. Proper breath control for an athlete is crucial in reducing performance anxiety and improving concentration in their sport. Yoga is appealing to the competitive athlete because it challenges them to relax, focus, and breathe. This is an added benefit of how well they will perform in their sport. Athletes are expected to perform at their optimal level, which cause stress on the physical and mental body. Yoga increases flexibility, reduces the risk of injury, reduce stress, increase proper alignment, and many other benefits. Yoga is the perfect way to ensure overall health, wellness, and performance.
“...benefit of yoga is the effect it has on reducing stress.”
e tim ed v o r imp ad nt ir h the 72% ageme ed iently g a n n ma ma e effic ad h or d r an 74% load m e p r k sha wor ere ed w s 79% e focu r o m
Everyday Perks of Working Out
Think you don’t have the time to work out? Think again. What about squeezing in a lunch-hour routine? Studies have shown that there are many benefits to exercising before or during your workday. Check out that stats above, to see what the experts had to say about it. - M.B.
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travel
Top ATTrAcTions Busch Gardens
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Lowry Park Zoo
1101 West Sligh Ave Tampa, FL. 33604 813.935.8552 www.lowryparkzoo.com
FLorida aquarium
701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602 813.273.4000 www.flaquarium.org
channeLside yBor
Visitor Info 813.241.8838
st. Pete times Forum 401 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602 www.sptimesforum.com
BiG cat rescue
12802 Easy St, Tampa, FL 33625 813.920.4130 www.bigcatrescue.org
raymond James stadium 4201 North Dale Mabry Highway Tampa, FL 33607 www.raymondjames.com
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eSPn Cold Pizza has ranked Hattrick’s in the “top ten Sports Bars in the Country
GeorGe M. SteinBrenner FieLd 3802 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd. Tampa, FL 33614 www.steinbrennerfield.com
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Hattricks features a state of the art entertainment system complete Big Screen TVs in High Definition with all major sports packages PREMIER PLAYERS
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music STEMM
We got a behind the scenes interview with STEMM’s lead singer, Joe Cafarella to find out what they have been up to, where they got their start and they got their music picked up for the UFC. PP: Thanks Joe for taking the time to talk to us on the behalf of Stemm. The best place to start is at the beginning, so tell us a little about Stemm….did you guys all grow up together? How did you meet? JC: No problem, basically it started with friendship and we have had the name for 11 years. There has been a few lineup changes along the way, but we are all good friends. PP: So Stemm really came into the mainstream when the UFC picked up Face The Pain for their PPV…..how did that come about….how did they approach you guys? JC: Another band that wasn’t heavy enough for them, passed on our CD and it was used in test shows…it was ‘As Real As It Gets’, they were looking for a certain song to set the tone for the big fight, Tito Ortiz against Ken Shamrock…and about two months later ‘Face The Pain’ became the official song…it was a very fast and great lasting relationship that was built. PP: Do you guys watch the UFC? PPV’s? JC: Yes, although we haven’t been able to keep up as much lately, but Danny (Drummer) watches every fight PP: Who is your favorite MMA fighter? JC: Speaking just for myself, Chuck Liddell and Randy Couture. PP: The PPV leads in with Optimus Bellum Domitor , then Face The Pain kicks in; do you guys ever wish you sampled Optimus first? JC: They do! They use it in their live shows. PP: We hear about some of the odd things artists put in their contract riders, so what’s the one thing you really need in your backstage area? JC: We don’t get that crazy about it. We like to keep it simple with some beer (Bud Light or Corona) and water. If we got that, we’re happy. PP: What’s the craziest thing that ever happened to you onstage? JC: back in 2004, we shared the stage with Damageplan’s Vinnie Paul and Dimebag Darrell (both from Pantera) in Buffalo, New York. They were such stand up guys. The venue we were playing in had lost their liquor license and they were throwing beer out to the 26
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crowd. The day after that concert, Dimebag Darrell was murdered onstage in Columbus, Ohio during a concert. That has to be the craziest thing...we were shocked.
JC: Hmmm, now that is one that I would need to think about. I would say Wayne Gretzkey or Michael Jordan…actually scratch that (laughs)…Derek Jeter!
PP: Wow, that had of been so surreal…on a lighter note…what would you say is the most embarrassing? JC: Well there really hasn’t been anything too embarrassing (laughs)…hmmm, there was this one time when we played Rockstar Mayhem and were on the Jager Stage and baby powder was put on Danny’s drums and snares by a member of another one of the groups as a joke and when he started playing there was this huge cloud of powder (laughs). Other than that, one time our bass player, Steve, fell through the stage when we were playing.
PP: So what’s next for Stemm? JC: Well we have played over 130 shows. Playing at a few festivals over the summer and writing for the next CD. Our main focus is expanding and working on our own label, Catch 22 Records. I also would like to throw in there that we have a song on the new Iron Man 2 video game.
PP: Really? That’s crazy! So tell me, what are some of your favorite bands? JC: Pantera, Korn, Pearl Jam, Pink Floyd, Tool are a few, but there are so many.
PP: That’s great, sounds very exciting…well Joe, thank you very much once again for taking time to speak with us. We would love to stay in touch with you and keep on top of the latest with you guys. JC: Definitely…it’s been a pleasure, anytime!
opening act
PP: What is the worst song you’ve ever heard? JC: It’s funny you asked that, just the other day I was in the car and thought, “this is the worst song I ever heard”, but I don’t remember the song (laughs). I would have to say anything by System of a Down. Nothing against them, but that is probably what I would have to go with. PP: What’s in your DVD collection? JC: Any kind of comedy, horror…I love all of Rob Zombie’s movies including Halloween I & II, Dumb & Dumber, Spiderman, I like Country Western movies …my favorite movie is probably Wyatt Earp, I was actually watching that on tv about 3am last night. PP: Sabres or Bills? JC: Sabres! PP: If you could be any athlete, who would you be and why?
Very rarely do we get a message on MySpace that doesn’t result in hitting the Delete Friend link. It’s usually a wannabe Eminem under the pseudonym of “J Toker” or guys my Dad’s age striving to become the next Steel Dragon cover band. So imagine our surprise when we hit play on the Park Lane media player and not only enjoyed it...but left us listening to the entire playlist, and wanting more. Better yet, Park Lane’s founder and guitarist, Mike Keller is former NFL QB Jeff Garcia’s cousin. Guess the talent pool runs deep in the Keller/Garcia family. Check out our interview with Park Lane only at www.premierplayersmagazine.com
fired up!
Top Rock & Rap Songs to get fired up to
m ’ k c e h C Out! 1. Metallica - Damage, Inc. 2. The Refused - New Noise 3. AC/DC - Thunderstruck 4. Korn - Blind 5. Hatebreed - I Will Be Heard 6. Fort Minor - Remember The Name 7. Drowning Pool - Bodies 8. Mudvayne - Not Falling 9. Jay-Z - Dirt Off Your Shoulder 10. Pantera - Walk 11. Stemm - Face The Pain 12. Static-X - Push It 13. Powerman 5000 - When Worlds Collide 14. Trapt - Headstrong 15. Ministry - N.W.O. 16. Rage Against The Machine - Freedom 17. Prong - Snap Your Fingers 18. Slipknot - Duality 19. Trust Company - Down 20. Linkin Park - Faint 21. Sick Puppies - You’re Going Down 22. Motorhead - Ace of Spades 23. Slayer - Raining Blood 24. Eminem - Lose Yourself
gaming Average User Score: 9.1 Release Date: 5/25/2010 Platforms: ps3xb360 Publisher: THQ Developer: THQ Gamesite: www.ufcundisputed.com Genres: Fighter ESRB: T
rides
25. Offspring - Gotta Get Away Visit us online to check out our entire list of the top rock & rap songs to get you fired up and make sure to take a look at our next issue to see what other great heart racing, adreneline pumping music we found to get you fired up! PREMIER PLAYERS
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player’s ink
official take
Mario Yamasaki
David Beckham
Mario Yamasaki is a Mixed Martial Arts referee, most widely known from his duties with the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Born in 1986, Mario was studying to become a classical piano player, but his father had convinced him to become a fighter. Recently, we had a chance to talk to Mario, and here is just a bit of what he had to say to Premier Players.
Soccer star David Beckham is known as much for his tattoos as he is for is abilities on the playing field. The majority of Beckham’s tattoos have been done by Manchester tattooist Louis Malloy, one of the most prominent in the UK. Some of his tattoos include: a winged cross, names of his children (Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz), a guardian angel, Chinese characters and Jesus on the way to the cross, which was revealed in January 2010.
Best/Worst
PP: How long have you been ref’ing with the UFC? MY: Since UFC 20
Top 5 - Soccer Flicks
Best
1. Victory - Don’t let the miscasting of Stallone sway you from this inspirational classic. 2. Kicking It - Hard not to be moved by homeless men from around the world on their journey to the Homeless World Cup in Cape Town. 3. Mean Machine - Euro-Badasses Vinnie Jones and Jason Statham allow you to keep your girl placated while you enjoy this remake. 4. Green Street Hooligans - C’mon, you gotta love the fanaticism of soccer hooligans! 5. Gracie - This one appeals to the underdog in all of us.... even “those” craving a Jersey Shore fix!
PP: What other organizations do you ref for? MY: Washington Combat, EliteXC, Strikeforce, The IFL (when they were around), UCC PP: What was the most exciting fight you ever officiated and why? MY: Chuck Liddell/Tito Ortiz because of the fight itself and the fans….they were crazy! PP: Does fan backlash over a controversial decision or stoppage ever get to you? MY: It is part of the game. We can’t make it right for all the fans….the have their favorite fighter who they want to see win. Sometimes we make mistakes just like everyone. PP: What fight do you want to see happen and be a part of? MY: Fedor Emelianko/Brock Lesnar or Anderson Silva/Shogun
Worst
1. Ladybugs - Premier Players does not codone crossdressing at any level, even for sports! Sorry Hogettes... 2. Air Bud World Pup - We shook Air Bud off our leg during football season with Golden Receiver. 3. Shaolin Soccer - Even if you’re RZA if Wu-Tang Fame, title alone should denote that won’t even search for this in Walmart’s $5 Abyss of DVDs. 4. Kicking and Screaming - We prefer to remember Will Ferrell as “Frank the Tank” rather than an overzealous son and coach...even with the Ditka cameo. 5. Bend it Like Beckham - One glimpse of Beckham per issue is all you guys get! 28
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PP: How did you get started in officiating? MY: My father was an international Judo Referee so I follow him all over the world when I was younger. He refereed the 92 Olympics. I began ref’ing Jiu Jitsu matches until I met John McCarthy in 1998 at the UFC in Brazil. I asked him how many other refs they had and he said he he was it. So I began Right after that.
PP: If you could officiate any other sport, what would it be? MY: World Cup Soccer PP: So you’ll be watching? MY: Of course PP: Who do you want to see win it all? MY: Brazil PP: Who some of your favorite players? MY: Ronaldinho…..Kaka PP: If you could be any athlete for a day who would it be? MY: Tiger Woods PP: I don’t think I want to know why…. MY: (laughs)
To find out more about our Official of the issue, you can check out his site at www.grappling.com.
community
Warrick Dunn Family Foundation by Matthew Burk
Sports fans everywhere know Warrick Dunn as the great running back for the Atlanta Falcons, but for this two time Pro Bowler, nothing is as rewarding as his work off the field. Through his program, Home for the Holidays, Dunn helps single mothers become first time home buyers. The program has a milestone to reach, which is to move the 100th single-parent family into a new house by later this year. Over the years, he has raised more than $5 million through the Warrick Dunn Family Foundation. He plans to assist another six families later this fall, providing the down payment and furniture. Right after his first-round draft selection by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1997, Dunn established the program in honor of his own mother’s dream to one day own a home. He is now assisting single mothers in four areas: Baton Rouge, where he grew up, Tallahassee, where he went to college and in Atlanta and Tampa, where he has played professional football. The Foundation does its best by keeping administrative cost very low to help reserve as much money as possible for the foundation. It’s really the volunteers that help keep the organization going and they appreciate everyone wanting to get involved and couldn’t do it without all of them. So what’s next for the foundation? Well, besides the unveiling of their new branding that will take place at the beginning of June, changing the foundation name to the Warrick Dunn Family Foundation, they will continue to assist single mother’s, fundraising and hoping that one day will come where they run out of holidays and reach even more markets. If you would like to find out how you can get involved or to get more info on the Warrick Dunn Family Foundation, visit www.wd-ff.org. PREMIER PLAYERS
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on deck
Check out our July “All-Star” Issue, where we will be following up on the NBA finals, the World Cup, French Open and a feature spread on the MMA. In addition, you can catch all of our regular features such as Bloodlines, Rivalries, Where Are They Now product reviews and top picks. You won’t want to miss it! 30
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