NEW MODEL FOR BASEBALL SEASON SIMULATION

While many computer and statistical models are used to simulate season schedules, one of the draw backs of those simulations is the fact that fans cannot really watch or participate in the same way.

As we all sit at home through this COVID-19 crisis, many sports fans would love to have the distraction of watching games that were part of an actual season of competition. So, in the spirit of fun and enjoy the progress of a season, let us unveil the plan:

1. The regularly scheduled MLB season would be played according to the existing schedule.
2. No new physical games would be played, in the interests of social distancing and safety.
   • Yes, we understand that everyone would prefer games and I do believe all professional leagues will try to reinstate competition without fans. Unfortunately, I also believe that will be suspended again upon another outbreak or multiple players catching the virus.
3. Each game on the schedule would “take place” at the location on the original schedule.
4. All the innings played between the two teams in games played in the same host city would be put into a computer simulation.
   • For example, let us estimate that the Cubs and Cardinals have played approximately 15 times per season over the last 30 years.  That totals 450 games. The computer would select one half of one inning of the approximately 225 games from the home site.
   • The TV networks would have inventory and could televise all of the games. 
   • Nobody would be able to know the outcome of any game by looking it up online since you would only know which half inning was being televised at that point.
   • As the TV broadcast comes on the air, you might get an inning from a 1995 game from the Astroturf at the old Busch Stadium, or rainy 2018 game from the grass at new Busch Stadium.  You may get the chance to watch some of the strong Cardinals teams from 2006 or 2011, or you could see the World Series Cubs team from 2016.
   • You would see some really interesting matchups, as one Mark McGuire or Albert Pujols could be batting in one inning, while the dominant Cubs World Series winners would hit in the next (or maybe one of the less stellar Cubs entries).
   • As the season progressed, you would have no way to know which games/innings were going to be selected nor in what order.
   • It would add an interesting twist to watching and following the progress the season as fans sit at home.
   • It would give fans something to talk about and a season to follow.

To me, the attraction of this model, is that we would be watching actual competition, instead of seeing the results of a computer simulation.  You would see real pitches, real swings and the energy of real fans.  But instead of just watching the re-run of a classic game, mixing up the innings would keep viewers’ attention, thereby giving sponsors and TV networks, more value.

So, should we start the bidding for the media rights?

It was a busy week spending a few days in Washington, D.C. with members of the Sports Philanthropy Network and attending the Aspen Institute’s Future of Sports event.

Aspen Institute—The Aspen Institute held another forum in their series entitled “The Future of Sports.”  You can read my full write titled “NCAA Under Attack” which goes into a lot more detail.  Bottom line, changes are coming.  The only remaining question is how quickly the process will move and what the final result will be.  As you will see in my earlier article, the choice is either a level playing field or a completely open market. Stopping some place in the middle will not work well and attempts to do so will only create more problems by virtue of the additional regulations that would be required.

Washington, DC Holiday Party—We had such overwhelming interest for the Sports Philanthropy Network’s DC holiday party, that the Washington, DC, market is likely to be one of the initial Chapters the Sports Philanthropy Network will launch in 2020.  Despite many conflicts, even the people who were not able to attend last week reached out and specifically asked how to get involved with the network and were especially interested in our Membership Levels.

Chicago Holiday Party—We hosted this event in the Top Golf Swing Suites in 900 N. Michigan (Bloomingdales).  It is a terrific venue and a fun place to eat, drink and network.  I love getting the opportunity to meet people who are just learning about the Sports Philanthropy Network and telling us how they would like to get involved and joining as members of our network.

Meeting Great People and Organizations—One of the best parts of launching the Sports Philanthropy Network 11 months ago, has been the opportunity to meet and engage with so many people who are finding innovative ways to use sports to create stronger, healthier and more inclusive communities.  The caliber of people and their efforts is truly amazing.  I feel fortunate to be a part of this process, learn as much as I can about their work and hopefully be a part of the solution.  As there people join the Sports Philanthropy Network through our Membership Program, we learn more about their needs and their abilities. Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to speak to me, meet with me, record a podcast, speak at the Sports Philanthropy World Conference and participate in any of our other events.  We accomplished so much in 2019.  We have set our sights even higher for 2020.  Thank you for your support and encouragement.

Chanukah Party—Earlier today Kayla and I hosted a Chanukah Open House and it was fantastic to celebrate with Julia, Brett and many friends.  I am appreciative to have these people in my life and enjoy having the time and ability to host people to share these special occasions.

Holiday Time—As we head into the final 10 days of the year, I am thankful for the great people in my life. I am very fortunate to have two living parents who have been incredibly supportive to me during difficult times.  My sister, Sharon, is an amazing bundle of energy who has taught me many things despite her disabilities.  Julia had a great first semester at college in Madison and Brett is doing well in his Junior year at Stevenson HS.  Kayla has been an incredible addition to my world these last 17 months and I cannot imagine life without her.  While life gets hectic and we rush around a lot.  I feel fortunate to have a great network of friends, a warm home, plenty of food and clothes.  Perhaps most importantly, I have my health, something which I do not take for granted as I see so many other struggling.  I also recognize that many people are alone during this holiday period.  I encourage you to reach out and include them.  Having company is much more important than the food, drink or venue. They will appreciate your kindness!

If you didn’t have a chance to see some of the other things I have been involved with or written recently, take a look here:

• Sports Philanthropy Newsstand, December 20, 2019
• NCAA Under Full Attack at Aspen Institute’s “Future of Sports”
• Sports Philanthropy Newsstand, December 13, 2019
• PODCAST: Fred Mitchell, Chicago Blackhawks
• Sports Philanthropy Newsstand, December 6, 2019
• Roy’s Ramble, December 1, 2019
• PODCAST: Tony Giarla, AVP First
• Why an 8 Team Playoff Will Save College Football
• FIRE SABAN!! Be Careful What You Wish For ‘Bama Fans
• Why Second Guessing Playcalling is Like Second Guessing Rock, Paper, Scissors
• 25 Life Lessons that I learned from Sharon

HUMOR FOR THE WEEK

MOTIVATION FOR THE WEEK

Wishing all of my loyal readers a Happy Chanukah, Merry Christmas and positive vibes for 2020.

This past week I had the opportunity to attend the Aspen Institute’s forum entitled: “The Future of College Sports: The Government’s Role in Athlete’s Pay.”

NCAA President Mark Emmert and a wide variety of stakeholders were present. The challenge for Emmert is the rapidly decreasing strength of the NCAA and the speed at which the NCAA’s credibility is evaporating.

You can read the full coverage that I wrote for the Sports Philanthropy Network here:

NCAA Under Full Attack at Aspen Institute Forum

I rarely review or suggest movies but I saw Dark Waters this past weekend with Kayla J Bradham. I highly recommend the film, though it was very disturbing.

The movie focuses on the history of the DuPont corporation polluting waters with dangerous chemicals that remain in your body (Teflon). Many products and chemicals that we develop for legitimate and useful purposes are dangerous. Ultimately, we have to balance the issues that are involve to determine whether the cost to society is acceptable.

For the corporate entity, Teflon was extremely profitable which is why DuPont covered up the dangers. What I found most disturbing was the way DuPont fought against attempts to hold them accountable or help the victims.

The film also illustrates the multitude of failures in our societal systems that are supposed to serve as checks and balances. Throughout the movie you see significant problems with the EPA, Government and court system.

Many of you know and understand the growing dangers arising from contamination of our food and water supply. Sadly, Teflon is only one of many chemicals which cause this type of damage.

Some very interesting stories to follow over these last couple of week. 

This coming week I am excited about the Sports Philanthropy Network holiday events in DC (December 17th) and Chicago (December 19th), as well as the Aspen Institute’s event on the State of College Sports which is being held in DC on December 17th. Should be a a very interesting week ahead with lots to report next week.

NFL CELEBRATIONS—for so many years the NFL fought against allowing players to celebrate.  The moniker of the “No Fun League” seemed to fit very well.  I think one of the best things to come along in sports in a long time is the permission the NFL has given players to have fun planning, executing and enjoying the pleasure that comes along with a TD or a turnover.  Though the games are long enough, I would much rather watch the players celebrating than seeing a commercial for the 100^th time, 500^th time.  Let’s hope that they find other ways to encourage these positive spirited enhancements of the game!

CHRIS PETERSON—His retirement highlights the enormous pressure cooker college coaches are under.  NFL coaches are no different, except that very few of them are able to make it past a few years in the league.  Virtually no coach has an open ended contract, unless your name is Belichick or Tomlin.  We have seen Urban Meyer retire multiple times and there are reports he will be back. Bill Cowher took a step back and there does not appear to be much chatter connecting him to any job openings this year.   Jon Gruden stepped away for a long time before he was lured back.  Though it gets in the coach’s blood, people often underestimate the mental, physical and psychological damage it can do to the coach and his family.

49ERS ANNOUNCER—This was a very disturbing incident in which the 49ers announcer Tim Ryan stated that one of the main reasons Lamar Jackson succeeded was due to his dark skin (and uniform) being able to hide the ball on play-action and read-option plays.  The absurdity was highlighted by Jackson wearing white sleeves and white gloves and continuing to put up huge numbers.  Anyone watching his performance will tell you that his running and passing abilities have nothing to do with “hiding” the ball due to his skin color.  The announcer got the appropriate flack and hopefully this issue is put behind everyone. 

BIG TEN CHAMPIONSHIP GAME—I had the privilege to get press credentials to cover the Big Ten Championship Game in Indianapolis last Saturday night.  Indianapolis has the well-earned reputation for putting on a phenomenal show.  It was doing so for many years of NCAA tournaments, Big Ten Tournaments and other events, before the Super Bowl showcased its capabilities to a much wider audience.  The fan set up in Indy is tough to beat with the hotels and restaurants so close to the action.  The Indiana Convention Center hosted a terrific Fan Fest and pep rallies letting fans get opportunities to kick field goals, run the 40 yard dash and much more.  Some parents even let their kids get in front of them in line.   The staff at Lucas Oil Stadium does a great job hosting the media and ensuring first-class access to the field and all of the necessary resources. 

COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYOFF— Returning from the Big Ten Championship game and watching the playoff field unfold was completely anti-climactic given that there were really no strong arguments for any of the other teams, highlighting the need for an 8 team playoff to keep things interesting for more of the country and putting home field at stake!  Personally, I still hate having these games in advance of January 1^st so that the losers of the semi-finals are out of the college football talk before about half of the bowl games have even been played. 

PATRIOTS VIDEOTAPES—It is hard to believe that the Patriots are embroiled in another scandal.  You would think that they would have learned their lesson and that the specifications of working on a Patriots project would clearly articulate the need to be careful about videotaping improper areas of the field.  While it is hard to see how this would give the Patriots a competitive advantage (because anyone in the stands can videotape anything these days), there are certainly multiple troubling aspects of this issue.  First, the lack of “institutional control” in this case is surprising given the past history.  Second, the videographer’s lack of ability to articulate his purpose is somewhat troubling.  If you are filming for a particular feature, it would seem that you should be able to tell the “story” about why that film was needed.  At minimum, it is just a bad look for the Patriots, but it is also the type of incident that has seemed to galvanize the team in the past.

PRESIDENTS CUP FIGHT—Golf is typically perceived to be a game of honor and sportsmanship.  Patrick Reed’s failure to report his violation in the sand waste area created quite a storm leading into the Presidents Cup and the opposing fans at Royal Melbourne gave him an earful.  Reed’s caddy was apparently tired of it at the end of one of his rounds and got in a fans face and shoved him after the fan’s explicative filled tirade.  No matter the fan’s comments, physical assault by the caddie was unacceptable and the PGA rightfully suspended him immediately. Reed accepted that penalty.  He also responded as you would expect and came back with a dominating performance early in the singles session to help set the tone for the USA’s comeback victory.

BEARS-PACKERS—As one of the oldest rivalries in sports, this game always means a lot.  There were some very interesting plays and a finish which might have ranked up there with the famous Cal-Stanford rugby laterals (even if this one was shorter).  The Packers seemingly had no idea how to defense the play and only the failure to make the last lateral properly kept the Bears out of the end zone. It has been a difficult year for the Bears franchise and it will be interesting to watch to see how they react in the off-season.  Trubisky made a lot of very good throws in the game but still makes the critical mistakes that can turns wins into losses.

DARK WATERS—I don’t usually put much in here in terms of movie recommendations but I saw “Dark Waters” Saturday night and highly recommend it.  It depicts the highly disturbing story of DuPont and the pollution it wreaked around the disposal of the chemical compound used to make Teflon.  The compound cannot be broken down by the human body (or by most animals) and it causes all types of cancer and birth defects.  The movie traces the lawyer who fought the battle for 15 years to the detriment of his own legal career and family.  The heartbreaking elements of the story highlight the ongoing failures of the EPA, the inability of government (federal and local) to regulate chemical compounds for our food and water supplies and the challenges inherent in our legal system which allows a large well funded corporation to “bully” its own employees, cancer victims, the town hosting its plant, opposing counsel and everyone else involved in the legal process.

If you didn’t have a chance to see some of the other things I have been involved with or written recently, take a look here:

• Sports Philanthropy Newsstand, December 13, 2019
• PODCAST: Fred Mitchell, Chicago Blackhawks
• Sports Philanthropy Newsstand, December 6, 2019
• Roy’s Ramble, December 1, 2019
• PODCAST: Tony Giarla, AVP First
• Why an 8 Team Playoff Will Save College Football
• Plenty of Blame to Go Around in NFL/Kaepernick Fiasco
• PODCAST: Danya Rosen, Chicago Run
• FIRE SABAN!! Be Careful What You Wish For ‘Bama Fans
• Why Second Guessing Playcalling is Like Second Guessing Rock, Paper, Scissors
• Sports Philanthropy Newsstand, November 29, 2019
• Roy’s Ramble, November 22, 2019

HUMOR FOR THE WEEK

MOTIVATION FOR THE WEEK

Thanksgiving—I was very appreciative of being able to spend the day with my parents, my sister Sharon and Kayla Bradham and her children.  It was great to host them all and be able to share a full evening together.  It was also great to have some time with my kids over the weekend and hear about my daughter’s first semester in college at Madison. We were also able to share in the celebration of the Badgers clinching a spot in the Big Ten Championship Game against Ohio State and we will be looking for a much better performance than the game in Columbus in October. 

Most importantly, I am thankful for all of the good things in my life.  A place to live, plenty of food, plenty of clothes and many friends and family to share happy occasions with.  I hope to continue to do a lot of work with the Sports Philanthropy Network to help many organizations make positive impact in their communities.

Dean Smith Letters—These are some amazing letters that I found online.  They were written from legendary North Carolina basketball coach Dean Smith to a young basketball player named Michael Jordan.  You can see the attention to detail Smith has and the eye for the game.  What I also found interesting in these letters is the fact that you can see how they impacted Michael’s game at the NBA level.  It would be very interesting to see other letters from Dean Smith or other coaches in terms of how they want to see their players improving in the off-season (and then looking back on these letters after a player becomes a star).

Nick Saban—Alabama losing 2 regular season games is almost unheard of.  The loss yesterday really had to sting because Alabama mostly controlled the game.   The first pick-6 was relatively normal, but the second one was a horrendous throw and an enormous turning point in the game.  Instead of an 8-point Alabama lead it turned into a 100 yard INT return for Auburn.  But the lasting image of the game will Nick Saban’s tirade at the extra time added at the end of the first half.  By all rights, Saban is 100% correct.  There is no way that the clock should have been stopped or that Auburn should have been given time to kick that FG (which was ultimately the difference in the game).  The second dispute at the end of the game seems different to me. Auburn pulled off a good trick play and Alabama got caught with too many players on the field allowing Auburn to run out the clock. As in any close game, there are so many individual plays that can make the difference.  Besides the two big disputes, you have a relatively short missed FG and a defense that was clearly not up to Alabama’s recent standards. Still, it is hard to see how so many Tide fans are calling for Saban’s head.  As I wrote recently, be careful what you wish for Alabama Fans.  You might not make the playoff this year, but I would not bet against Saban next season (and if I were one of his assistant coaches, I would not plan on much sleep).

The Hedges—There were some very funny images of people trying to get through the hedges at Auburn after the win.  It would seem that if you were a fan at Auburn you might have a better game plan of how to get on the field after a big win.  Surprisingly, Alabama is 0-7 at Auburn when both teams are ranked. 

Jim Harbaugh Press Conference—After becoming the first Michigan coach to be 0-5 against Ohio State, Harbaugh was obviously quite testy at his press conference.  It might not have risen to the level of contentiousness as Mike Leach does at Washington State, Harbaugh was clearly irritated by questions of what Ohio State did better.  It is going to be very interesting to see where Michigan is slotted for a bowl game and how the sentiment around Ann Arbor in the off-season will impact the Harbaugh era.  Many Michigan alums were unhappy going in to the season and Michigan lost to the three best teams they played (Ohio State, Wisconsin and Penn State).  They were not even close against Ohio State or Wisconsin and needed a huge comeback against Penn State to get within striking range, a comeback which appeared to be the turning point for Michigan to play well for the second half of the season.  While Harbaugh has made Michigan more competitive than the last two coaches (Hoke, Rodriguez), he hasn’t been able to get over the hump in the way that many expected.  This will be an interesting story to watch in the off-season.

8-Team Playoff—I recently wrote why I think the 8-team playoff will save college football.   The enormous pressure on coaches is just another reason.  With only 4 teams making that playoff, there is virtually no margin for error for any team not named Alabama, Clemson or Ohio State.  You look at Championship Weekend and there are very few teams that can really improve their spot and only a couple (Georgia, Utah, Oklahoma and maybe Baylor) that can likely play their way in.  By contrast, an 8-team playoff would still have a lot of room for movement not only into the field but also into the matchups and into the home-field advantage.  What would be better than seeing and SEC team travel to the Midwest for a game in a snowstorm?

Coaching changes—One of the things that I hate most about this time of year (and also Black Monday after the NFL season), is seeing all of the coaches who lose their jobs. These guys gave their hearts and souls to the programs that they are working for.  Clearly it is a business and they all understand that it is part of the profession, but too many of us fans fail to recognize the impact these decisions have on all of the family members, especially the children uprooted to new schools or faced with abusive attacks on their parent in the media and on social media.   It was refreshing to see the positive press release Northwestern put out after the decision to move on from Mick McCall as offensive coordinator after a truly dreadful offensive season, one which ironically ended up with their best offensive performance of the year.

Josh Shaw betting—The NFL doesn’t play games when it finds out that one of its players has been gambling on NFL games.  Josh Shaw was a backup player on injured reserve who laid some action at a Vegas casino, supposedly due to his misinterpretation of the rules. Though he did cooperate fully, he is suspended through 2020.   According to the NFL’s own language it would appear to prohibit fantasy football but you frequently hear players referencing their fantasy teams.  Maybe they are all just playing for fun. Here are six other things you might not know about Shaw, including the fact that he fabricated a story while at USC about leaping off a balcony to save his drowning nephew.

Medical Independence—One disturbing story this past week was about the lack of medical independence on many college campuses.  According to NCAA regulations, the sport coaches are not supposed to be in charge of the hiring and firing of medical personnel for their programs.   Unfortunately, it has become apparent that there are still way too many coaches who control this aspect of their programs leading to enormous conflicts of interest and unreasonable pressure on the athletic trainers and other medical personnel. The NCAA itself has provisions for dealing with this situation but it appears that they are rarely enforced or even investigated.

Arena Football Bankruptcy—The Arena Football League filed for bankruptcy this week.  The league has had many lives and there is no reason to believe that it is gone for good.  There is always a huge appetite for football, but one important element of the league may be replaced by the XFL.  The development aspect of arena football is limited because too many NFL positions really do not have equivalent positions in arena.  The XFL will be a better developmental mode but the desire to see football is likely to create another desire to resurrect this league.  Its biggest obstacle is likely to be the concussion crisis since players are going to be increasingly reluctant to sacrifice their brains and bodies for the meager financial rewards of arena football, especially if it is not a true developmental option for the NFL.

If you didn’t have a chance to see some of the other things I have been involved with or written recently, take a look here:

• Sports Philanthropy Newsstand, November 29, 2019
• Why an 8 Team Playoff Will Save College Football
• Plenty of Blame to Go Around in NFL/Kaepernick Fiasco
• FIRE SABAN!! Be Careful What You Wish For ‘Bama Fans
• Why Second Guessing Playcalling is Like Second Guessing Rock, Paper, Scissors
• Roy’s Ramble, November 22, 2019
• Roy’s Ramble, November 15, 2019
• Roy’s Ramble, November 8, 2019

HUMOR FOR THE WEEK

MOTIVATION FOR THE WEEK

Today I am very thankful for so many peoole in my life. My parents, Sharon, Julia Kessel, Brett Kessel, Kayla J Bradham and so many great friends who have been supportive and encouraging in good times and bad. I am thankful for having enough food, clothing and a place to sleep. As I look around the world of sports philanthropy and beyond, I see so many examples of how we can all help improve the world. I am committed to helping and would love to share that journey with you. Each one of us have a lot to give. If you aren’t sure where to start, let me know and I can connect you with many outstanding organizations. HAPPY THANKSGIVING.

Last week I had the good fortune to attend an event called MegaSuccess. Operated by the JT Foxx Organization, MegaSuccess is often billed as the Super Bowl of Business Conferences.

This is the second year that I have attended the conference which featured approximately 2500 people from over 80 countries around the world. JT Foxx bills himself as the “World’s #1 Wealth and Business Coach.” While many people might quibble with that moniker, it is apparent that JT has an extremely loyal following and that he works very hard on behalf of his clients.

If you are able to look past some of his shtick, you will see that JT spends countless hours and many dollars traveling the world and help business owners get to the next level. He encourages them, pushes them and breaks them down, getting them to recognize their own self-imposed limitations. Though many people want to compare him to Tony Robbins, I believe that you will find them quite different in approach and in focus. While Tony focuses on getting you to look into yourself and get yourself to a better place, JT tends to put more emphasis on making you successful at your business and teaching you how to monetize your strengths and opportunities.

One common complaint that I have seen and heard online, is that people question the value of his courses or his coaching. I will tell you that if you spend the time participating in his events and following his coaching sessions, you will certainly gain value. If you look at anyone who is successful, they likely have multiple coaches for different parts of their life. I can imagine someone hiring a hitting coach for baseball or a golf instructor and proclaiming them a fraud if you can’t hit HRs or break 80 on the course…without the dedicated time and effort you need to succeed.

As an overall experience, MegaSuccess is a true bargain. If you don’t want some of the add-ons which are offered, you can attend for only $99.00 for over 5 days of the conference. There are speakers from around the world telling their stories, some more effectively than others. The key element is the people you have a chance to meet and the celebrities you get to learn from. A partial list of the celebrities who participated in this year’s event included (in no particular order):

• Dr. Phil
• Gabriel Macht (Harvey Spector from Suits)
• Vanilla Ice
• Vince Vaughn
• Gary Kasparov (Chess Champion)
• Hugh Hilton
• George Ross (President Trump’s former right hand man)
• Moira Forbes
• Jillian Michaels
• Omarosa
• Kimora
• Jay Abraham
• Fred Dunn
• Andrea Navedo
• Frank McKinney (Real Estate investor)
• Dolph Lungren (Russian from Rocky movie series)
• Steadman Graham
• Russell Peters (Comedian)
• Gilbert Godfried (Comedian)
• Steve Mandell (JT’s agent and media personality)
• Andre Phillip Gagnon

When you get an opportunity to hear from all of these people, what you realize is that there is an abundance of information delivered in a short amount of time. Last year I failed to take any notes at all and just absorbed the comments. This year I made a more concerted effort to get down some of the highlights. Next year, I feel that I will make a better effort to really get proper notes from more of the sessions.

Another element that makes this conference unique, is that JT Foxx does not attempt to sell programs from the stage or the back of the room. Sure, there is a whole Foxx Shop with his signature ties, bobbleheads and apparel, but you can truly capture the benefit without spending additional money unless YOU feel that there is enough value for you.

I would highly encourage you to attend in 2020. If you want more info, please feel free to reach me to discuss.

It has been an interesting week. Last weekend I was out in Buffalo for Project Play Western New York.  This week I have been out in California for meetings with more sports youth organizations, promoting Sports Philanthropy WORLD 2020 and meeting with speakers and sponsors for that event coming up June 25-26, 2020. If you would like to register, you can get our SUPER EARLY BIRD rate through December 31, 2019.

For much of the week I have been attending MEGASUCCESS, a conference run by JT Foxx. It has been an amazing experience.  I have also had an opportunity to reconnect with some good friends and have a chance to sit down for meaningful conversations with people who are trying to change the world.

Amidst all of the travel and activity, I am feeling very thankful for the people that I have in my life and recognize how fortunate I am to have many supportive people in my life.  While I am involved with sports philanthropy all year round, especially at this holiday time, I encourage people to think about their good fortune and donate to causes that help with food insecurity.  Blessing in a Backpack is great organization my daughter Julia is raising money for through her sorority. Blessings helps feed children in need and is something that runs across all races and geographic locations.

What I was following this week:

• Colin Kaepernick—This situation got out of control quick.  You can see what I wrote about “Plenty of Blame to Go Around in NFL/Kaepernick Fiasco.”  Ultimately, even many of those who have spoken out in support of Kaepernick’s right to protest, like Stephen A. Smith, have come down harshly on him agreeing with what I wrote about him trying to dictate terms of a job interview.  Stephen A’s comments this morning focused on the fact that the NFL was even allowing him an opportunity after he sued them, took a huge settlement and more. I will be surprised if he ends up on an NFL roster this season.

• Tua Tagovailoa injury—People heaped blame on Saban, but the injury occurred in the first half so that is clearly absurd. No team sits starters in the first half, regardless of the score.  The bigger concern might be the issue raised when it became apparent that Tua did not have the proper insurance to protect him in the event of an injury.  That is a place where they are rightfully angry at the school because he should have had coverage to protect a drop in value, not just the total permanent disability. This is why athletes need representation to help them negotiate and ensure the proper steps are taken.

• Athlete violence—In the wake of the Myles Garrett fiasco, there were many calls for the NFL to take a stronger stance against domestic violence or other violence against women. Some expressed disappointment that there was more outrage from Garrett’s conduct than some of the recent examples of violence directed to women.  It becomes interesting to watch some of the double standards that exist where players and many members of the media seem to be more willing to give players a second chance or benefit of the doubt for a domestic violence incident than they do for Myles Garrett’s helmet swing, with some calling for a permanent ban.

• The NCPA (National College Players Association) held an event at UCLA which was primarily focused on two issues:  1) health and safety of college athletes; 2) whether players should be paid or allowed to capitalize on their name image and likeness.   The stories from the women on the first panel were heartbreaking.  Listening to the abuse they suffered and hearing about the number of failures in the administration, you have to wonder how so many people could turn a blind eye to their pleas.  Yet it has happened frequently.  (You can read my more detailed summary of each panel coming soon if you check back on this site). The second panel focused on the issue of payments to players, either in the form of direct payments from the schools or allowing athletes to capitalize on their name image and likeness.  Here are a few articles that I have previously written about the topic.
  • NCAA Statement on Name, Image, Likeness Leaves Gaping Holes
  • Only Two Choices Left for College Sports: Level Playing Field or Free Market

• MEGASUCCESS by JT Foxx—Each year JT Foxx puts together an incredible lineup of celebrities for his MegaSuccess event.  So far, the event has featured: Hugh Hilton, Steadman Graham, Gabriel Macht (Harvey Spector from Suits), Omarosa, Dr. Phil, Vince Vaughn, Dolph Lundgren, Jillian Michaels and many others.  The celebrity aspect is truly just one part of the environment because the event draws over 2500 entrepreneurs from over 80 countries around the world.  It is an incredible opportunity to engage with business leaders from around the world, learn about different cultures and network with successful business people trying to help each other improve their businesses.

• California Organizations—Great trip out to California to have the chance to meet with several organizations.  Met with LA Scores (Spotlight), AVP First (Spotlight) and GOALS (Spotlight coming soon).  Each of them perform incredible work in their community and I especially enjoy the opportunity to take a site visit and see the way each group works. If you want to support our efforts to help organization’s like these, you can become a member of the Sports Philanthropy Network by joining here!

• Project Play Western New York— Last weekend I had the honor to present to Project Play of Western New York in Buffalo.  There were over 75 people leading youth sports organizations about how to improve their organizations and build their capacity. There was amazing energy in the room and people that are very passionate about helping kids in their community remain active, learn through sports and develop needed life skills and relationship building through their sports activities. A special treat to end the trip was the hospitality of the Buffalo Sabres who gave me my peek into the Key Bank Center as they hosted “Hockey Fights Cancer” night. I managed to be a good luck charm to help the Sabres end their 7-game losing streak (with a 4-goal game from Jack Eichel).

If you didn’t have a chance to see some of the other things I have been involved with or written recently, take a look here:

• Sports Philanthropy Newsstand, November 22, 2019
• Why an 8 Team Playoff Will Save College Football
• Plenty of Blame to Go Around in NFL/Kaepernick Fiasco
• FIRE SABAN!! Be Careful What You Wish For ‘Bama Fans
• Why Second Guessing Playcalling is Like Second Guessing Rock, Paper, Scissors
• Roy’s Ramble November 15, 2019
• Roy’s Ramble November 8, 2019

Wishing you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving!