I’ll be the first to admit it. I’ve had some awful things to say about Mr. Phil Mickelson. I’ve questioned his golf skills. I’ve questioned his decision-making processes. I’ve commented on his testicular fortitude. I’ve even made jokes about his physique. I shouldn’t have done that.

I was wrong, and I’m sorry.

Conrad Dobler is a ten-year veteran of the NFL. He had played for the St. Louis Cardinals, N.O. Saints, and the Buff. Bills. It had been opined that he was the “Dirtiest player in football”, but no one could argue that he was a good, solid offensive lineman. He made ProBowl appearances in ‘75, ’76, and ’77. But his career had taken its toll on his body, and he is now 90% disabled. He walks with a cane, and is about to undergo his third knee replacement on the same knee. He is married to Joy. At a family cookout in 2001, she fell out of a hammock and injured her spine. She is now a quadriplegic, and hopes have stem-cell surgery outside the country, in the next 18 months.

After seeing an expose aired on ESPN, Mr. Mickelson, (not Phil, not Lefty, but Mr. Mickelson.) saw an opportunity to help. Without any fan fare, without any publicity, (His lawyer even tried to STOP an article on the subject in “Golf World”.) and having never met them, he has been paying for the Dobler’s daughter to attend college. Holli Dobler has just completed her sophomore year at the University of Miami (Ohio) and has a grade point average between 3.6 and 3.8. She appears to making the most of this gift, and considers Mr. Mickelson her “Angel without wings.”

For The Record: Next years tuition… $24,000

Mr. Mickelson is currently second on both the World Golf rankings, and the PGA money list.

He has 31 wins on the PGA Tour, and 3 Major Titles. (2 Masters, 1 PGA)

These are huge accomplishments, and should not be taken lightly. He has EARNED my respect, both on and OFF the golf course.

Mr. Mickelson,

I Pray…. that you, your wife Amy, children Amanda, Sophia, and Evan, (in fact, all your family and loved ones) are happy, healthy, and comfortable.

I Pray…. That you receive all the blessings, a man with your heart and talent deserves.

I Pray… You will forgive me…

I was Wrong, and I’m Sorry.