16 minute read
Charles Shultz
History of sports: the bicycle
Rolling on
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sarah nakonechny
sports writer
As the weather slowly begins to warm up, it’s time for us to bring out our summer activities – one of those being the bikes that many of us have looked forward to riding year after year. Who came up with this machine that is a staple in many people’s lives? Grab your helmets because you are in for a bumpy ride.
The recognized father of the bicycle was a man by the name of Karl von Drais, a German baron who had made the first major development in the creation of the bicycle in 1817. It had all the components of a bicycle: it was steerable and had two wheels. It was operated by kicking against the street. However, it is not what we would consider to be similar to the modern bicycle. This evolution did not come till the 19th century and that was due to the work of several different inventors.
A handful of French inventors, including Pierre Lallement, Pierre Michaux, and Ernest Michaux, were the first to develop prototypes based off of Drais’s initial design. These were the first to have pedals attached to them to allow the riders the chance to control their speed. These were quite a rough ride and they earned the nickname “boneshaker” from
Pixabay Bicycle on the sidewalk.
those who tried them.
These models were in need of a facelift and a lift is definitely what came next. James Starley and Eugene Meyer introduced new models to the scene that sported an oversized front wheel. This also brought forth the fourfoot-high seat which made it slightly dangerous for some to ride. It was believed that these oversized wheels would provide a greater amount of stability to their riders. These were iconic in the 1870’s and 1880’s and what many people associate with the old black-and-white photos that float around of individuals on bicycles from this time period.
The Englishmen decided to alter this design when John Kemp Starley decided that enough was enough with the dangerously high seat that the previous model offered. In 1885, he featured what was known as the “safety bike.” This design featured equal sized wheels, which is the closest template to the modern bicycle that had been developed thus far. Starley’s model was also the first to introduce the use of a chain to connect the pedals and has been used since then as well.
After this point in time, the development begins to get hard to track, as many different inventors from all over the world began to come out with variations of Starley’s model. The developments focused on improving the tires, implementing and then improving brakes, and trying to manufacture ways for the product to either be practical or for speed and racing purposes.
The bicycle is something that has allowed individuals to expand their freedom, provided efficient ways for travelling, and has given people of all ages an activity that they can bond over. Although it has gone through quite the transformation in order to get to its current point, it is important to consider possibilities for future improvement as well. Of course, there are different needs based on the purpose and the terrain being driven over, but no matter the circumstance, manufacturers can continue to look into providing better tires, higher quality breaks, and improving the overall look of the equipment as well.
This spring, as you get ready to take the bikes out for the first time, take a moment to appreciate all the thought that went into developing what looks like such a simple piece of equipment. Imagine what it would be like trying to ride a bike with no pedals or one that is four feet in the air while you try and maneuver your bike around town. As the wind cools your face and you dread the look of helmet hair after you’re done, be thankful for the effort that went into making the bicycle what it is today.
Remembering Chris Schultz
A good anchor, player, and person
sarah nakonechny
sports writer
We all have our opinions on what makes a good sports anchor. Granted – whether you enjoy seeing their faces show up on the TV at halftime because you care about what they have to say, or because that means you can refill your snacks, we can all agree it is terribly saddening when a beloved anchor passes. Recently, we lost the cherished Chris Schultz at the age of 61 due to an unexpected heart attack on March 4, 2021.
Schultz was more than just an anchor. Prior to his time behind the desk as a football analyst, he also played in the National Football League (NFL) and the Canadian Football League (CFL). From 1983 to 1986, he played with the Dallas Cowboys before coming up to play with the Toronto Argonauts for nine years afterwards. He was even able to secure himself a Grey Cup win in 1991.
He was known as being the “Big Man” for many reasons throughout his life. Not only did he stand at an impressive 6’7”, but he had a personality to match his stature. From being able to make you laugh and feel at ease, to the big presence he held on The Sports Network (TSN), you always knew when he was around. His passions for his family, friends, teammates, and, of course, for football, were very noticeable, and he was known for always being willing to talk about any of them at any moment.
The passion for his work and for people did not stop with the football families or his personal relationships. Schultz also participated in work with Purolator Tackle Hunger and displayed his passion for it tirelessly. He spoke very publicly about working with this organization and what doing so meant not just to himself but also to the families in need.
Passion was something that had been used to describe Schultz for everything he did – from the work that he did on the field, the outreach work he did for food banks across Canada, and, of course, the work he did on The Sports Network. For those who are not familiar with his work, Schultz became a regular on CFL broadcasts on TSN. As well, he hosted Risky Business, made weekly NFL picks, and had the opportunity to be a part of the Grey Cup and Superbowl coverage on TSN for many years.
It was clear to many that Schultz was worthy of being placed in the Hall of Fame, and that is exactly what happened. In 2016, he was inducted into the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame where his legacy will continue to live on.
Whether or not you knew the man personally, he was able to use his joy for life and the platform he was presented to touch the lives of so many individuals and to make a difference in the lives of many families. His big heart, passion for everything he did, insight into various topics, and joy for life were all infectious. If you cheered for him as a player or enjoyed listening to him on the panel, there are many impressive moments that he will be remembered for. Next time you tune in to listen to the hot takes of next season, take a moment to appreciate the life that was loved and lost.
Looking at developments in the NFL
ethan butterfield
sports editor
The offseason for the NFL has been really heating up as of late, with some of the trades and events that have taken place recently really turning the heads of football fanatics (such as myself) everywhere. So, in the spirit of the Butterfield Breakdown, I’ll be doing a rundown of the NFL free agency and all of the developments that have occurred. So, without further ado, you can find the news just below:
So, the biggest event which took place was the retirement of more-or-less guaranteed future Hall of Famer, Drew Brees. Brees, Famed QB Phillip Rivers (who also retired this year) would replace Brees in San Diego and go on to really accomplish nothing of any relevance (to be fair, he did set a bunch of Charger franchise records).
Brees retirement not only comes about because he felt he gave all he could give, but also (according to an Instagram post on his account) to spend more time with his family.
Chicago Bears offensive tackle Kyle Long was also supposed to retire in 2020, but is now officially returning for another year.
From Brees’ retirement to another legends extension, we reach that of Tom Brady. Tom Brady,
Moving away from the legacy players, we move to the bigger re-signings that are occurring around the league. A notable one being a one-year contract extension for Cam Newton to continue his QB position in the New England Patriots organization. Despite Newton’s lacklustre performance with the Patriots, the extension gives the impression that Newton will have (at the very least) one more season to make things work. Another couple of major re-signings took place in the Buffalo Bills with main defender Matt Milano and tackle Daryl Williams coming back to the franchise with four-year and three-year extensions, respectiveknown) is now officially a member of the Washington Football Team! Signing a one-year deal with the team, he will suit up with the organization next season. Another of the bigger ones that had occurred (and a bit under the radar) is that of veteran running back (RB) Mark Ingram. Formerly part of the Baltimore Ravens, Ingram was signed as a part of the Houston Texans in an effort to add more depth to the position. The Detroit Lions also brought in some offensive depth with two veteran signings of tight end (TE) Josh Hill and wide-receiver (WR) Tyrell Williams. Of course, all these signings pale in comparison to the mega-signing that was million in cap space for the organization. Lastly, veteran defensive lineman Carlos Dunlap was released by the Seattle Seahawks. So, that should be it, right? There’s a ton of updates about what’s going on around the league and plenty of information to keep any NFL fan excited. Well, there are a couple of interesting rumours worth addressing, such as Ryan Fitzpatrick’s retirement and the Philadelphia Eagles trading Zach Ertz. As well, the landing spot of QB’s DeShaun Watson and Russell Wilson is also a big hot topic going on in the league right now. Of course, these are all just rumours at the end of the day, and the end result will be
whatever it ends up being.
So, there you have it! All of the retirements, comebacks, signings, re-signings, and extensions that you can handle. I hope there was enough useful information in this article for you to get caught up on the goings-on of the NFL free agency and where things currently stand for numerous franchises. Here’s hoping for a busy week of NFL trades and signings so that I can bring this edition of the Butterfield Breakdown for one more week.
– Ethan Butterfield
who was well known as the starting quarterback (QB) for the New Orleans Saints, hung up his number nine jersey after 20 seasons in the NFL. Interestingly enough, despite Brees’ association with the New Orleans Saints, they were not always his team. Brees spent the early years of his career as a part of the then San Diego Chargers (now Los Angeles Chargers) before suffering an injury and being put onto the free agency. From there, he would sign with the Saints and spend the next 15 years of his career setting records and winning a Super Bowl title. QB for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and winner of Super Bowl 55, has officially signed on for a four-year contract with a lockedin first year. Like me just say this to Mr. Brady personally (‘cause I know he’s reading University of Regina articles in his spare time): what more do you have to prove?! I say again: what more do you have to prove?! You have won the Super Bowl 7 times! You have almost every QB record out there! You can stop, you’re the best – go home and enjoy Netflix and eat chips or something! But anywho, yes, expect more Tom Brady moving forward. ly. The return of both players will keep that all-important depth in the Bills organization.
As well, Dak Prescott was also solidified as the starting QB for the Dallas Cowboys with a huge four-year, $160 million contract. This does leave backup Andy Dalton in a bit of a tricky spot with his place moving forward after having been the main playmaker last season. However, those developments are still yet to come.
With re-signings looked at, let’s take a look at some actual signings. First and foremost, Ryan Fitzpatrick (FitzMagic as he’s defensive all-star J.J. Watt, who joined the Arizona Cardinals during the offseason. Watt will be spending two years as a Cardinal and earning $31 million overall.
Re-signings and signings aside, there comes the unfortunate reality that players must face with regards to the cut. Notable cuts during the offseason include that of Malcolm Butler, who the Tennessee Titans released. The Miami Dolphins released line-backer Van Noy after failing to find a landing place for him. The New Orleans Saints also ended up cutting veteran WR Emmanuel Sanders, saving $6.5
Ethan Butterfield
Laptop displaying the NFL free agency.
Looking into the world of independent sports games
ethan butterfield
sports editor
If your reaction to the title of this article was like that of a dog that turns its head when it hears the word “walkies”, then congratulations, you’ve just recreated my first encounter with Maximum Football when I initially saw it in the dim light of the game store on Xbox.
For those curious (and I hope you would be if you’re reading the article), Maximum Football is a simulated American-style football experience that does away with the American aspects of the
game and, instead, makes the Canadian Football League (CFL) the centre focus. That’s right – for the low, low price of still more money than it should be, Maximum Football brings Canadian teams to the virtual world of videogame football.
The only thing is is that, because of the small development team behind this title and the lack of backing from the CFL, the actual official CFL teams are nowhere to be seen. Instead, we are greeted to the legendary Saskatchewan Knights, yaaaaaaaa? Honestly, I’m being harder than I should be on this type of game considering the size of the development team behind it, but it’s still a strange product to put out there into the world when something like Madden exists.
That being said, I get it. Not everyone wants the big virtual football experience – some want a more homegrown style of game that actually comes from a developer with heart rather than the soulless hollowed-out money creature that EA is. Of course, to great. The arena presentation left a lot to be desired, teams were very bland looking, there was no background commentary, and trying to do anything other than throw the ball was a mistake. Not that you couldn’t run the ball, but there are certain plays where if you throw you score all the time. So yeah, throw the ball.
Moving on to Maximum Football 2018 (and more or less 2019), there just wasn’t enough there to warrant this franchise needing a sequel – which is interestingly
Lycconf Games
An Xbox game controller against a green backdrop.
is where the franchise should’ve been from the start. Not AAA in quality, but something that has a decent independent feel to it, something that has a lot of charm and makes me want to show it to my friends. Yes, it is still a bit disappointing that you can’t play as any of your favourite CFL teams, and instead have to settle for weird alternatives, but it is what it is.
Again, I can appreciate the work that it takes to deliver on a project with the amount of limit-
ed funding that must be available. As someone that used to review games, the difficulties for a smaller developer to create a unique product that has to measure up to other more funded games of the same genre are one hell of a mountain to climb.
However, here’s the difference: you can always tell as a gamer when there’s a lack of heart in your product. Yes, the actual franchise of Maximum Football has advanced far from its initial 2017 release, but the time that the developers could have taken to develop a polished and refined game would have made a world of difference to their success. I’m happy for Canuck Games that things have improved to the point of quality that is presented in Maximum Football 2020, but it really should’ve been there from the get-go.
All in all, Maximum Football is an interesting development in the genre that is simulated sports and continues the argument for smaller developers being able to create something of substance despite a
– Ethan Butterfield
backpedal on the backpedal, the price that Canuck Games asks for their games does not get you the same level of product (for reference, Maximum Football 2020 is $30 dollars new on Xbox and $40 dollars on PS4).
Going back to the team’s first entry, Maximum Football 2017, the first time I actually got the chance to play that title, I was convinced that somehow, someway, my console had magically changed to a PS2 … and the disc inside was scratched … and PS2 was on fire. Joking aside though, it wasn’t also the problem that Madden has now. Actually, in all honesty, Madden is taking more features out of its franchise as opposed to adding them, so Maximum Football at least has that going for it. It’s doing what a franchise should be doing: growing rather than just relying on nostalgia to sell copies. Anywho, Maximum Football 2018 was more or less a case of “second verse same the first”, and proceeded to be another forgettable entry into the franchise.
And so comes around Maximum Football 2020, which I believe smaller budget. That being said, supporting independent developers is great, but (as mentioned above) when the pricing is high above what the quality of the actual product is, then there needs to be a point where you meet in the middle of recouping funds and understanding your market. Gamers will pay for what they’re interested in at the end of the day though, so if there are any issues in regards to the price range or the quality, Canuck Games will feel it through a lack of interest.
