Last August, my wife and I relaxed by the pool at a luxurious resort in Cancun. We were on our honeymoon, surrounded by a hundred other couples with the same wedding date as us, which was really all we had in common. That was, of course, until I noticed the guy in the Red Sox hat. While everyone else sat virtually silent with nothing relevant to say to each other, we talked for over an hour about our beloved Sox—the comeback, Schilling’s bloody sock and that painful game seven of the 2003 ALCS.
Despite the fun we had, and aside from the “you’re really talking about sports right now?” look on my wife’s face, I’ll always remember that guy, that conversation and the way that sports brought us together.
That is what sports provides us with—they create a commonality between strangers, making us feel like we all are connected in a way that distance and time make impossible. For some reason, sports are more than just a bunch of kid games played by adults. They hold an intrinsic emotional value to us, providing a medium that allows everyone to relate as if we’d known each other for years. Sports are the temperature gauge of our society.
It’s incredible but true: as a country, we argue and get more worked up about issues like steroids, the NBA MVP and the importance of U.S. soccer on the global stage than we do issues that really affect our lives like, say, rising gas prices and our need to find alternative energy sources.
If you’re reading this, then guaranteed, you know sports is the only thing that would cause a normally rational person to lose his cool in a restaurant after overhearing the conversation at another table, about Mario Williams being a better pick than Reggie Bush. After all, some things can’t go unnoticed; they just instinctively grab your attention. Never mind if your child has poured the entire bottle of ketchup onto his plate. How can anyone side with Charlie Casserly?
Think about how we interact with each other as a society—it isn’t through larger social issues, it’s through sports.
We don’t sit at a bar and talk about environmental statistics, we talk baseball statistics. We don’t have parties where we get together and watch the crop report; we get together and watch the Super Bowl. Kids don’t play “Global Investment Strategies” in their room at night, they play Nerf basketball. And I certainly don’t get together with my wife’s family to have a Social Security discussion; we go to a Triple-A baseball games and share $5 beers.
Sports have an influence on our lives that can only be pinpointed when we examine our actions. It drives us to do crazy things and shift our priorities. Take me for example: I’ve decided it’s more important for my four-year old to learn to taunt his Yankee-loving grandfather mercilessly about their pitching woes than it is for him to learn to read. He’s only got a few more years before he starts attending games with me, and he needs to be ready. You have to prepare them for it. Reading will come with time—they have schools for that.
Sports can even inject reason and logic into unrelated situations. A high-ranking government official makes a harmful and derogatory remark about a subsection of society? Fine ‘em like the NBA does Mark Cuban. That’s right, give the Supreme Court the right to levy fines on these poor representatives of the American people. Just as it’s bad for professional sports as a business when an owner, manager or player acts out in an inappropriate way, it’s bad when our elected officials do the same. But I digress.
Though our seemingly ridiculous obsession with sports comes at a price of time and emotion, there’s always a return on our investment. Maybe it’s playing golf with your dad or your brother-in-law. Perhaps it can come from watching your favorite team win a championship so you can experience a little bit of the purest form of joy in life, which is in the moments after a team or player wins a title. Or it could be getting an autographed picture of a childhood hero for Christmas, which will, under no circumstances—even the threat of bankruptcy—be sold for personal gain.
The point is that sports has crept into nearly every aspect of our lives, often manifesting itself when we least expect it—whether in a restaurant or on a honeymoon in Mexico. And even if my wife still has that look on her face, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Though I don't completely agree, I still really like this one Moore. Great job.
There are plenty of people who do care a great deal about "important social-issues" and discuss them, advocate them, etc. Plenty of those people could really care less about sports. I know several of these people. I can hold my own in both arenas, but do greatly prefer the world of sports. Its controlled, definitive, entertaining, and immensely popular.
However, the majority of the country is indeed far more interested in the Pennant Race, NBA Playoffs, MVP Award, etc. than Global Warming, Soaring Gas Prices, etc. What's really frightening is that there are people out there who care more about Tom and Katie's baby than Sports and Politics. Get a life!
I must admit that Family night at the local AAA club with $5 beers sounds like tons of fun. My family is probably more apt to get into a discussion about something political in nature than do that. Next time I go out to visit I'll have to insist on going to see the Richmond Braves play instead.
Well, how does it feel to finish off that last assignment? I didn't enjoy being eliminated but having that #### off my back was not something I was unhappy to see go.
Just wanted to congratulate you however this ends up coming out. Both you and HiPlains did a great job. In your case, what I was most impressed with was the fact that you actually kept making better posts as the contest went along. Good luck!
GbBrent: Thanks man, I appreciate your thoughts and your different perspective. I figured that most of the people who may read this post on here may enjoy it. I like political discussions; it was my minor in college, so I can hold my own there. I just find that most people relate to each other better with sports. Thanks again!
Dudski: Thanks for the comment, I do feel a LOT better now that it's over with. This week wasn't really as bad as the past, I felt a lot better about my topics and my writing. We'll see what happens, but it has been a blast. Thanks for the kind words about my posts getting better. I really enjoyed your "Happiness is a warm monitor" piece the other day!
Last edited by MooreSports on June 23rd at 5:37 PM.
And maybe learn to throw an accolade to your wife while having that memorable conversation...
One night in Zihuatenejo my wife and I had a unforgettable (to me) conversation, mostly about their love for the Vikings (2000). I also paid about 5 bucks for two romantic guitar melodies from a traveling troupe a the same table, overheard by the Minnesotans...
edclinch: Thanks Ed! I really appreciate it. I had to ask my wife for permission before quoting her expression on our honeymoon. Obviously, she's a great sport! That's why I married her.
norcal: Dang it! That Super Bowl stat would have fit in great here. Nice point! Thanks for the comment bud, I hope it cools down for you.
Wow, this is honestly one of the best posts I've ever read on my 5 months on this website. Sports aren't just a game. It brings people together, and against each other. And its a great way to get away from stress. Great post Moore, if you don't win this competition, then I might have to jump on the "Conspiracy" bandwagon.
MrNFL: Wow. That is honestly one of the best compliments I've ever recieved in my six months on here. I really appreciate your kind words. It's been a lot of fun and very challenging, for both myself and the other contestants I'm sure. As always, thanks for your comment and your support!
One point "bucko". You have a lot of nerve teaching your kid to poke fun at the Yankees pitching rotation considering the state of affairs of Boston's starters. I mean really, you guys pick up Johnson with his 7+ ERA or whatever it is and everyone at the bottom of your staff is the walking wounded. Where's Bronson when you need him?
Just kidding of course but I had to get that dig in. It's fitting to see the Yanks and Sox battling it out again even though neither squad is as good as they have been. If either team was, they would have run away with the division by now.
Two things stuck with me: 1) Talking with strangers about sports on a honeymoon. The guy I met was an Oriole's fan and I got married in 1997 which is the last time someone other than the Yanks won the division, and yes it was the Orioles. We had some great talks and obviously he loved Cal Jr. 2) Teaching my son to root against Boston. His three catch phrases are "Boo Red Sox", Yankees rule Red Sox drool" and "Boo-ston". God I love that impressionable little guy.
Sports really can bring people together. You and I sit on either side of the fence in our rivalry and I like you just fine. =) Best of luck with the judges and regardless of what happens (good or bad) you have plenty to feel great about.
Wow, great piece here! Although, I am sure some people would disagree with your opinions, but those same people are probably not your target audience. I have enjoyed reading much of your material. Best of luck!
rivjo: And that's the beauty of it--you're teaching your child "Boo-ston" and I'm doing this with mine...in ten years they'll be brawling on Yawkey Way. I love this country!
Seriously, thanks for the comments and I enjoyed your story about your honeymoon in '97 and the O's. I appreciate the kind words.
Siddhartha: Thanks man, I really appreciate it and I'm glad you liked it.
Last edited by MooreSports on June 24th at 4:14 AM.
I couldn't agree more- well except for the fact that I'm a Yankee fan.
However, I live deep in the #### Backyard of Red Sox Nation. Historians and National Geographic refer to it as the state of Maine. BUt being a Yankee fan in the witness protection program in Maine isn't that bad. At least not from November to March. Then it is the gates to Hell.
Whenever I spy another fool, stupid enough as myself to where a Yankee hat in these unchartered, nasty waters-
Oue eyes will lock, and there's always the nod and the half smile.
He's saying "I read you, loud and clear- they've had 1/10, we've taken 4 of the last 10. Screw 'em".
Without words, me and this nameless Yankee fan have a whole conversation.
And, it's because of the wonderful world of Sports !
Well done Mr. Moore. I was once vacationing/camping in the Catskills and my pager (tells you that it was several years ago) could not get the updates. I would make excuses to drive 40 mintues into town so I could get my sports fix and update all socres.
Sports is the perfect example of "6 degrees of separation"
ChinMusic: Thanks for the comment. I like where this whole thing is going. I love all these stories, keep them coming everyone. Nameless fans, having entire conversations without speaking a word.
FlyingPig: Thanks for the compliment. I just really enjoy hearing all these personal stories from everyone relating to the piece, please keep 'em coming. I love the 6 degrees of seperation. Almost like 6 degrees of Kevin Bacon...
Last edited by MooreSports on June 24th at 6:22 AM.
Bri, I think it's a great post, esp for the next great SPORTSwriter II. Plus, I think we can all agree that talking about sports is a hell of a lot more FUN than arguing about gas prices, the war, #### marriage, enron, etc.
I also found it funny and ironic that you're from Indy and love the Red Sox and your competition is from Boston and he loves the Cubs. And that, right there, pretty much sums up the power of sports!
JonnyT: Thanks for those comments and your kinds words. It is ironic that we can all live around the country, but have our favorite teams be thousands of miles away. Good point about me and Drifter liking teams that are closer to the other. Thanks again for reading!
Great job. Excellent post. I was shopping at the grocery store early one Sunday morning last football season when I saw a guy wearing a Packers hat and a green-and-gold tee shirt that said on the front, "Shut up. I'm watching the game." Of course I told my girlfriend about as soon as I got home. I must have left something out. She just didn't seem to get the effect. Go figure. She did tell me that Kohl's was having a huge sale, though. Good luck in finals.
I can't think of a more appropriate way to conclude your run in NGS. This post seemed to bring it all together. Fantastic job! Not just with this one, but with the whole thing.
Wish you all the best with the voting, but more importantly...with all of your future endeavors. During this contest, you displayed an abundance of character, talent, and writing ability.
One question: How in the world did you get away with discussing sports on that vacation?
ricko: Thanks for the comment. Where can I get that shirt. That's just a fantastic story. Thanks for sharing.
ShooterB: Thanks bud, I appreciate it. To answer your question, I had a lot of making up to do. Surprisingly, she doesn't care...and I don't have to keep calling her the "MVP" of our team before she says enough. See ya later...
edclinch: People get busy or lose interest sometimes, the important thing is that everyone stays busy writing. Thanks for the comment, you've got some good insight there.
Moore, Personally I loved the piece. Living in Cali, you defintely share those looks with fellow Dodger fans. And the guy who told the Packers story about the t-shirt is right. Everyone who's commented thus far is right...sports transcends everything when it comes to how we interact with each other. This was a home-run, really drew the reader in with your lead. Nice job and good luck dude.
Moore - Couldn't agree more about the power of sports. Everybody's throwin' their stories out there, so I'll throw mine. I just recently moved from Pittsburgh to South Florida. I can't even count how many times I've run into Steelers, Penn State, Philly Eagles fans since I moved here. Season before last, I was driving down the road the week before the Steelers-Eagles game. I had my Steelers stickers on my truck and I noticed a guy next to me with Eagles stickers on his truck. He noticed me, too, and we just gave each other that nod, saying "Good luck on Sunday." That's the power of sports, you hit it right on the head.
Last week, I stated this woman was the ugliest woman I had
ever seen. I have since been visited by her sister, and now
wish to withdraw that statement.....
sorry, i just got that quote in an email, and had to share it with someone....i believe mark twain said that. even back then, guys didnt like ugly chicks...lol
i've never been on vacation where i could talk alot of sports....i need to put that on my list of things to do. where is this year's Women's Sports Fanatics convention? that's where i want to be.
drakewilmont: Thanks for the high praise, I really appreciate it. And thanks for your relation to the piece from the L.A. standpoint.
CarolynT Thanks for the comments. If you're talking about the Mets, then I'll bite. :)
jgrace12: Isn't it amazing how many times you walk through a mall, or down the street or drive in your car and you pass either a fellow fan of your team or a rival and we give each other the "Sports Nod". It's a secret code; a different language. Thanks for the story and the comment.
cuziffer: Thanks for stopping by and for your comment. LOL, good stuff from you as always. I'll have my wife look up where that convention is and get back to you...
Last edited by MooreSports on June 25th at 1:32 PM.
Nice Work, spoken from the heart. Man, I am so with you on this. Its one of the reasons I get out of bed and go to work every day. I work to live, I don't live to work. But to live is to be able to cheer for your favorite team, fly clear across the country to watch them win a champioship, and boys it ain't cheap but its all worth every penny.
harleynutz2003: Thanks for the comments. It certainly isn't cheap to go around the country following your team, but you do what you have to. See, it's all about priorities...and sports fans always have them in line.
Congratulations on making it to the final round of Two. You have been a joy to read in this regard.
To your credit, you have taken our criticisms in stride. Second, you've had the class to not only address them, but to actually incorporate those ideas you felt warranted further action. As a growing writer, continuing along this path will make you even better. A scary thought.
I am proud of you, as you've produced a solid body of work throughout this competition. Most important, you fought like the true warrior you are.
As this is your big moment, it is not my place to offer further speculation on the end result. It's up to the judges now. All the best ...
You've done a great job capturing the essence of the sports fan here. I know that watching the Seahawks, not only win a playoff game, but qualify for the Super Bowl this year is one of the five greatest moments in my life.
In 1999, my Christmas gift from my parents was my father taking me and my brother (who I brainwashed as a Seahawks fan upon his birth) across the country to see the final regular season game in the Kingdome. When the P.A. announcer introduced the 'Hawks in the pregame as, "YOUR Seattle Seahawks" and they came running out, I cried like a little baby.
There is no substitute in life for passion. It's what makes life what it is. It provides the highes and lows that are the good times and make us appreciate the good times. Passion is what being a fanatic is all about. I really appreciate this piece.
MeanD: Thanks for the nice comments here. There's nothing special about the way HiPlains and I have responded, because feedback is what this is all about. Dissenting sports opinions are what it's all about. I appreciate the comments and just feel lucky to have had this opportunity in the Final 2. Thanks for your kind words, MeanD, I really appreciate them and your support.
xea76: Thanks for the comment and for sharing your story. You are dead right, passion is exactly what makes sports so meaningful for the individual and the collective group of fans cheering for a team. I hear you on feeling that moment when you enter a game of your favorite team(s). I want to go to L.A. to see the Lakers, Boston to see the Sox...its like I'm drawn there--and that's what the passion is all about. You invest this time and energy and emotion into these games, how can they not become a part of you? Thanks again for dropping a few lines and for your support.
A fantastic final post Moore. Sports truly does provide a commonality between strangers. Living in the middle of Cubs/Reds territory...I am never more at ease than those few times a yr. I attend Cards games in St. Louis. Being raised a Cardinals fan (in Central Indiana)...my Father is about the only person I can share my thoughts with who I feel 'gets it.' I suppose that is why I was most comfortable proposing marriage to my wife at Busch Stadium w/ Fredbird delivering the ring. I was surrounded by 'family.' I feel you saved your best post for the last submission. As MeanD stated...you took the criticism in stride and managed to apply the advice in each post thereafter. You improved from post to post on a consistent basis. In my opion...you deserve to win the competition. Even if you are a fan of American League baseball (ugh!) in the heart of National League Country.
cardinalsbaseball: We've all got our nasty habits, like me rooting for an AL team in NL country, as you mentioned....
Thanks for the comment, really appreciate it. You proposed at Busch Stadium? That's great! Like you said, you were certainly surrounded by "family". Thanks for sharing your story...and for the support.
Moore, great job. Really liked the article. It was a great topic to end with too. Kinda sums up why we are all here on this blog site too. Good luck to you.
Moore - This was fantastic. Sports do bring us together and they are a large part of many of our lives. Whether we live them through blogging, through coaching, or through competing (as I do in the huff and puff hockey league I play in) we take part in a community, an athletic/sports related community. And you are also correct about the return on the investment. As a coach I get some good and some bad but this is my world, a sports world, and next to my family, it is where I am happiest. Great job here and I wish you all the best. You deserve good things out of this contest. I know it is out of anyones hands but the judges but you did some quality stuff during this contest. Good luck to you.
My pleasure Moore. Glad to be the first one to leave you comments on your final NGS II entry. As I told HiPlains, both of you have done such a great job this final week, it is too hard for me to pick the winner. Best of luck to you.
By the way. I did finally manage to get a new post up after nearly a three week layoff in terms of posting.
gcoach: Thank you for the kind comment. You nailed it on the head, we are a part of this larger sports community and we get back from the sports we watch and play, but there are also many out there who give back by coaching and teaching to young kids. It's the circle of sports life, in a way. Thanks for sharing and your support, I really appreciate it!
GBrent: Thanks again for dropping by. I'm headed over to check out your piece, but I wanted to thank you for the kind words, really appreciate that!
This was a great read moore -- especially liked the yankee taunting kid -- he'll be able to read better than the young yankee fan that's for sure -- I've noticed one thing -- there's a guy with a boston cap in every city everywhere -- I've seen one on a taxi driver in amsterdam -- they're almost or maybe more global than the yankees -- good luck, man!
Hey Bri, even though I've been incommunicado for a while, I've been thinking about you and following the contest. I'm not surprised in the least to see you in the finals, I expected it all along. My pick would have been you and Dudski, although that's not to take anything away from HiPlains, who does a great job.
Good luck today, and don't forget us little guys when you hit the big time....
Outstanding job this finals Brian. Sorry to see you come up just short of taking the whole thing. It was truly a close finale between you HiPlains. Job well done.
I agree with Mean -- This ain't over for you by any means -- keep blogging -- but I think you know that anyway -- I think you've got a true talent and a keen eye for sports -- good luck with everything and stick with it!
Hey man, great effort. I'm proud of you. Keep the blogs coming although I'm sure a little time to relax and enjoy the family is definitely in order. Keep posting or one of us bloggers will hunt you down.
