Worst Person in Sports #10, 11, and 12-Wait and see

backinphillyLeave a comment

For our 10th installment in the series of just straight up bad sports figures, I’m coming to you with not one, not two, (starting to sound like LeBron) but THREE athletes/coaches/owners that I just can’t STAND. First I’m going to tell you about a player I can’t stand, then a coach and then owner.

So first, let me introduce you to Michigan State running back and most devoted person in the world Nick Hill.

Yup. That’s him. You can tell by the incredibly unnecessary tattoo. Looks like something right out of “300”, huh? The mascot of Michigan State is indeed a Spartan, so he got that part right. It’s ominous and threatening, as a Spartan should be, so that’s good. So why, readers, do I have a problem with that? I don’t hate him for it. But personally, I’m not a big fan of tattoos. Friends of mine have asked me about ideas for tattoos and I always respond, “How about you don’t get one?” But, what really bugs me about this particular batch of ink is that so many things could happen that could render that tat POINTLESS! For example, let’s say he gets kicked out of Michigan State for whatever happens. What then, Mr. Hill? Gotta go to a surgeon to get it removed or risk looking like an idiot. That’s an unnecessary cost and a painful one at that.

“Backinphilly, leave him alone, he’s just showing school pride.”

I’m sure there are other ways to display pride other than permanently turning yourself into a billboard.

The crappy coach today is new Washington Redskins defensive backs coach…Raheem Morris.

WHAT?!?!?!

Talk about dropping to a new low. About a week ago, former Coach of the Year Raheem Morris was fired by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after a very disappointing season, where the team was originally slated to make the playoffs. However, thanks to injuries and poor defensive play, the team faltered and failed miserably.

Really Tampa? You fire a guy that has been a solid coach since Day 1 because of things that he couldn’t control?

Ya, Tampa was dumb, but not nearly as dumb as the one they fired. Morris left a head coaching job to become a defensive ASSISTANT! There are so many vacant head coaching positions in the NFL right now, and he only applies for the defensive ASSISTANT? NOT EVEN A COORDINATOR?

Lookin’ good, Raheem. You might be one of the only employed people in the country looking to go DOWN in rank. And seriously? The Redskins? If you couldn’t win in Tampa, what makes you think that Washington gives you a better chance? At least Tampa has a quarterback.

Alright, one more. How ’bout Jets owner Woody Johnson?

This week, Johnson stated that his quarterback, Mark Sanchez is NOT lazy as many analysts have accused him of being. He stated that Mark is in the building first and leaves last everyday, always putting in extra work. He apparently does more work than any other quarterback.

Really?

Then why, might I ask, is he such a terrible quarterback?

The man can’t throw to his own team. I watched the Giants-Jets game. Is he color-blind? Maybe. His throws came closer to blue jerseys than they ever did to green. And what about the fumbles? I mean, dude, taking a snap isn’t as easy as it looks. But, it’s not as hard as you make it look. He’s afraid of pressure from defense, he throws into double and triple coverage far too often, and this franchise and its owner thinks they can build a team around this guy? What is wrong with you, Woody?

I’d make that face and hand motion too if my quarterback didn’t know who his teammates were. Why defend a man when his own offensive line won’t? Something tells me Mark Sanchez won’t be playing for the New York Jets for too much longer. I give him one more year and then he’s finished. Woody, don’t say a player is working hard unless he’s proving it on the field. People either think you’re lying, or crazy.

Alright, guys. That’s three for the price of absolutely nothing ’cause you don’t have to pay to read this. Next week, we go back to one person per article. This was just for the special 10th release. See you next week!

Happy Birthday Nan.

Yourcupatea1 Comment

My Nan is one of the most loving, generous, compassionate women ever known to mankind. She is a woman who will always put others interests before her own, and will always make the time listen to anyone’s woes and counsel them in her own way.

Although she has all these talents and more it is the way that she treats her family that makes her a shining jewel amongst the rubble of society. The time she invests in each and every one of our work and our personal growth. The time she spends reading her sons poetry proudly or reminiscing over the great dance or musical performances starring her grandchildren. The light that glimmers in my Nans eyes as she proudly speaks about her family’s achievements and the wide smile that spreads over her face as she laughs over their stupidity is a sight that will brighten anyone’s day.

Nan you mean the world to me and that is why I dedicate this blog to you.

You are the one who has taught me to pursue my passions and to follow what I believe in. From the days I first watched Holby City with you and decided to become a paramedic to now as I set out to become a journalist you have always been my driving force. In times of trouble you have helped me out and guided me through big decisions like moving to America. If it wasn’t for that chat you gave me one summer evening in 2010 on how I should give California a go and do it for my family, I can honestly say I would have struggled to leave.

It was so lovely when you visited in April 2011. You were the first to come, out of our family, and this took a lot of bravery. Your presence at Meher Mount meant so much to us and we all look forward to you visiting again in the next few years. I’m glad you had the chance to admire our new life and realize you still have a significant place in both our lives and our hearts.

You find so much joy and happiness in life and nature. You aluminate the light in our world throughout the darkness and make everything special in your own description. I love the way you seek so much pleasure in the changing colors of the leaves and the seasonal changes in your surroundings.

As I start to consider my career path and colleges I bear in mind if it would have your approval. Just as Dad said over Christmas that every house your children move to must be approved by you, I feel that often I find myself seeking your approval on big changes in my life. This is because you’re a great guide who speaks truthfully and reasonably and that is why I am going to do my best to make you proud throughout my life.

Happy 80th Birthday Nan, I am sorry I will not be there to celebrate. All my love.

Bex, Georgie and Nan at the beach

My Excellent New Years

rangerthecatLeave a comment

This year, I had no plans for New Years Eve until the day of.
I drove home with my friend from Tahoe the day before, and then on the 31st, I decided I would take a nice 7 hour drive to the Los Angeles area to visit some friends.

The drive, as always, was beautiful, despite being all lonely in the car for 7 hours. But the 101 never fails to be an amazing, comforting drive.

When I arrived in the area, I went and had an amazing sushi dinner with my friend Emma and her family, who I love dearly. It was a great start to a great night.

To end the night, I attended my good friends party, where I met so many cool new people and had an amazing time.

The next day, my friend and I decided spontaneously to take a trip to Venice Beach. He lives in the area, but I had only been there once before, and it was really great to return again. It’s such a beautiful place; there are so many different kinds of people, different shops, great beaches, and beautiful artwork.

We spent the whole day exploring the endless strip, sat in on a massive drum circle, and watched some graffiti artists at work; it was so interesting to watch them transform the art-covered walls.

And when the day was over, we ended the night with my favorite movie, Finding Nemo! Overall, I’d say it was one of the best New Years I have ever had. I only hope the next one will be as good 🙂

Strange family

thehungryrunnergirlLeave a comment

So during this winter break, I went home back in Japan. It was so great to see my family and friends and I enjoyed hanging around with them.

Some of the days, I chilled at home getting yelled by my mom for sleeping in. My mom would come into my room and wake me up at 8 in the morning, and I yelled, “Mom, it’s only 8. Let me sleep.” And she would always say, “Everyone is up and done eating breakfast and I don’t want to wait for you to do your dishes. You know what? If you don’t get up now, then you’re going to clean your dishes, wipe the table and do garbage disposal.”

Gosh, chill out. It’s only 8.

Well, my dad wakes up at 3:30 AM and gets ready to golf every single morning. My mom wakes up at 5AM to cook breakfast and get ready for the day. So basically we’re all morning people.

More surprisingly, my dad goes to bed at 7PM so the curfew he sets is 6PM for me. I want to say, Dad I’m 17. Are you kidding me? But I would never say that because he is so strict and frightening when he gets angry. I could never disobey him. Yes, a typical Asian dad.

My mom and my little brother Hosei (it is a Spanish name but we pronounce it “Housei”, which is also a Japanese name) go to bed at 8:30.

At 9PM, my house is dark except for my room. And I get so scared by myself going downstairs because we all sleep upstairs.

Well, this is my family and I know they are little strange.

And we’re back/Worst Person #9-LSU

backinphilly2 Comments

How ya been, readers? I’ve been trying to figure out how long it’s been since I’ve last expressed my extreme disappointment in the wide world of sports. So without further ado, I bring you a new installment in the worst person in Sports.

It’s not just one person. This team is a disgrace following last night’s BCS championship game between Alabama and LSU. The final score was 21-0 in favor of Alabama. Many people blame Les Miles, coach of LSU for not substituting his quarterback Jordan Jefferson for backup Jarrett Lee.

Honestly, who cares?

If you can’t throw the ball, then run the ball. This team was ranked number 1 in the country and couldn’t score against a team that they beat earlier in the season 9-6. Once again, the defense for both sides was stellar. But, only one offense really came to play, and only one touchdown was scored throughout the whole contest.

That’s right, 5 field goals and one touchdown and a missed extra point.

LSU could not stop Alabama from getting into field goal range. To be honest, as a player, I have no sympathy for their deplorable offensive attack, or lack there of. The team needs to really re-evaluate. But, maybe it’s time to re-recruit. Both Jefferson and Lee are leaving the school because they’re seniors. This might be it until LSU can find a new starting quarterback.

Also, for my next worst person, I’m adding a special surprise for the readers. Enjoy!

Damian McGinty

kirbyfullyloaded1 Comment

Look out New Directions, there’s a show stealer star in your midst.

Rory Flanagan, portrayed by Damian McGinty, is an Irish foreign exchange student attending William McKinley High School.

McGinty was born in Derry, Northern Ireland on September 9, 1992 and is a former member of the band Celtic Thunder.

Some 40,000 singers entered the Glee Project for a shot at stardom and McGinty was one of 12 finalists who participated in the summer filler between Glee seasons.  For his final performance he sang “Somewhere Beyond the Sea.”

With his Frank Sinatra-esque voice and captivating stage presence, he co-won the Glee Project and earned himself a 7-episode arc (later extended because of his popularity) on Glee.

I’m not here to talk about how amazing Glee is, how hilarious the plots are blah blah blah.  In this third season, I don’t really think much is going on.  But I will tell you exactly what I think of this new Irish addition.

With clear blue eyes, smooth skin and lots of dark brown hair, he certainly stands out.  McGinty looks quite young for 19, but personally, I think he’s just about the cutest thing I’ve ever seen.

And that accent is killer.

In his debut episode, Pot O’ Gold, he sings Kermit the Frog’s “Bein’ Green.”  I was (very) pleasantly surprised by his silky baritone.

In the latest episode he sang “Blue Christmas,” a tribute to the King.

But I think his best performance so far was at the very end of Pot O’ Gold.  It says a lot about him that they gave a brand new character two solos in one episode.  He dedicated the song “Take Care of Yourself” to his family back in Ireland.

Wow.  That second half where he hits his falsetto is absolutely incredible.  But his voice is just sexy in general, really fabulous.

Back when he was still with Celtic Thunder, he sang a spectacular section of “Amazing Grace.”  I think he did the best job out of all of them.  To view his part, go to 2:10.

STILL think he’s the best.  WHAT.  A.  VOICE!!!

Needless to say I love his voice and stage/screen persona.  If the writers/producers/directors of Glee are smart, they’ll hang on to this Irish supernova of adorable talent with both hands and not let him go till he refuses to stay.

I love you Damian McGinty!

Claddagh Rings

kirbyfullyloaded1 Comment

Claddagh rings originated in Ireland during the reign of William and Mary in the 17th Century.  The first ring was created in the small fishing village of Claddagh.  “Claddagh” comes from the Irish term an Cladach, meaning “flat stony shore.”

Made up of three parts, the components of the ring stand for the necessities of a relationship.

The heart represents love.

The hands symbolize friendship.

And the crown means loyalty.

They can be given in love or in friendship.  Or you can just buy one because they’re pretty.

Claddagh rings can be worn four ways.

If worn on the right ring finger with the heart facing out toward the fingertip, it means the person is not romantically involved; hence the “open” heart

If worn on the right ring finger with the heart facing in toward the wrist, it means the person is in a relationship and their heart is “closed.”

They can also serve as wedding/engagement rings.

If worn on the left ring finger with the heart facing out, it means the person is engaged.

If worn on the left ring finger with the heart facing in, it means they are married.

However, this is all assuming the person knows how to wear a Claddagh ring and is aware of its meaning and symbolic significance.

Claddagh rings are often embellished with Celtic trinity knots (as pictured above).

The information below is courtesy of  What’sYourSign.com

The trinity knot or triquetra (Latin for “three cornered”) can have a number of meanings.

The corners can represent:

Past, Present, Future.

Mind, Body, Spirit.

Thought, Feeling, Emotion.

Power, Intellect, Love.

Creation, Preservation, Destruction.

Other World, Mortal World, Celestial World.

Anyway, I think they’re awesome.  So if you get a chance, check them out.

Samson

kirbyfullyloaded2 Comments

I’m not religious, but I consider the Bible to be one of the greatest stories ever told.

Rather, a collection of the great stories, I am particularly fond of the Old Testament and the story of Samson and Delilah.

God gave Samson the gift of super strength, but in return, he could never cut his hair.  His strength allowed him to tear a lion apart with his bare hands, slay an entire army and destroy a temple.  He fell in love with a woman named Delilah.  The Philistines offered her silver coins in exchange for  finding the secret to Samson’s strength.

When Delilah asked him how to drain his strength, Samson deceived her twice but finally told her that if his hair was cut, he would lose his gift.  While Samson slept, she called her manservant in their chambers and he cut Samson’s seven locks.  The Philistines captured him and put out his eyes, then forced him into hard labor, grinding grain.

His hair had grown long again and the Philistines went to temple to sacrifice to one of their most important deities.  Samson was brought forth but asked if he could lean against the pillars.

He cried out, praying to God, “Remember me, I pray thee, and strengthen me, I pray thee, only this once, O God, that I may be at once avenged of the Philistines for my two eyes.  Let me die with the Philistines!”

God restored his strength and Samson pulled down the pillars, killing many before the temple collapsed.  The Philistines perished, along with Samson.

Fellow blogger Yrreskrap and our ASB President sang “Samson” by Regina Spektor.  Personally I think she’s a lot better than Regina.

Anacapa Island

kirbyfullyloadedLeave a comment

I love the Channel Islands.  Just off the coast of California, these 5 little land masses are some of the most incredible spots on Earth.  Made up of  Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel and Santa Barbara, this archipelago is home to 145 species of animals found nowhere else in the world.

I went on a trip to Anacapa with my Ojai Valley School biology class and took a few pictures and chilled in some tide pools.  It was a lot of fun and very beautiful.  Lucky for me, the sun was out and it was warm.

The pools are deep and clear and kinda freezing. At least in early spring.  But the water sparkled and the waves were great.

The tide rushed in and out quickly, churning foam swirled between the rocks and obscured the pools.

Waves began building and crashing over the rocks in great greenish-white masses, soaking everyone in their vicinity . Including moi.

Me, (and my camera) getting hammered.  Good thing Olympus makes good waterproof gear.

How it looks when I’m not getting hit in the face ^^^  Nice huh?

He braved the splash zone

And got that as a prize.

I guess he was just asking for it that day…

I happen to be immensely fond of sea anemones.  They’re cute and squishy and occasionally colorful.  The green ones are the best and I’ve only ever seen three in my life.  Fortunately, that day was my third sighting:

Pretty isn’t he?  I only call it a he because I named him Zar.

Have you ever looked at obsidian (volcanic glass)?  Sometimes I think the water looks just like it.

I love the way it looks when the water streams off the rocks.

Not paying attention, here I am getting smacked in the face with my own camera.  Gotta love the waves.

White water!

I quite enjoy tide pools…

A purple sea star in the middle of early lunch.

Sea stars push their stomachs out through their mouths and envelop their food, pulling it back inside their bodies.  These echinoderms have no table manners.

As you can see, the tube feet have suctioned on to the mussel and arm bends around the shellfish to better maintain its grip.

All it all it was a good field trip, the best I’ve ever had.  If you ever get the chance, head on out to the Islands, it’ll be well worth your while.

The Road

thehungryrunnergirlLeave a comment

Last night, I watched the movie “The Road” in my English class. It shows the human nature in a cruel way.

The movie is about the survival of one father and his son in a destroyed world. The reason why the world is demolished is not mentioned in the book or in the movie, but all the people are dead, the world is full of gray ashes, and buildings and trees are all non-existent.

The father and his son walk on the road for many days starving, sleeping outside.

During their journey, they face cannibals. People start to eat other people in order to survive, which show the human nature (“eat or be eaten”) and the desperate lifestyle. The father and his son see a lot of dead bodies chopped up from being eaten, which was very gruesome and dehumanizing.

The fascination of the movie is the relationship between the father and his son. His son was only the purpose for the father to live.

This movie makes me realize how happy we are to eat and have a warm place to sleep, and living in a normal world.