Sports is and always has played a significant role in my life. I have found that most all of life's lessons are learned between the lines. Discipline, individual responsibility, teamwork and sportsmanship are among many opportunities presented within the games that offer guidance to prosper in life.
Over the years, there have been many individuals associated with sports that I have looked up to, been a fan of, owned a jersey of or just pulled for. These are my guys, and although it has not always been a road without bumps for many, these are my guys. In an effort to recognize these folks, I have formed The Hall of BAHL. Individuals making this list may or may not be the greatest ever players, coaches or ambassadors, but they are my favorites.
Each year, I will induct a new class members into The Hall of BAHL. In honor of my good buddy and sportsman Big Ole BudFeiser, who we lost in 2011 and who I grew up playing sports with, each class will annually be announced on his birthday, June 13.
The inductees for the 2023 Hall of BAHL class are listed in no particular order below:
BO JACKSON
There may have never been an athlete with the skills possessed by Bo Jackson, a two sport superstar who was eventually sidelined from a devastating on the field injury. But the mark left by Jackson on both the gridiron and the diamond will spawn tales for decades forth.
I am no Auburn Tiger fan, but I did appreciate his place in college football while on the plains. With Jackson, the Tigers ended a long losing streak to Alabama in the Iron Bowl, and he sent shockwaves around the country in winning the 1985 Heisman Trophy.
In the college game, I saw Jackson play live four times. The first opportunity came when he was a freshman, and he scored the only touchdown as Nebraska routed the Tigers on the plains 41-7. I was at the 1982 Tangerine Bowl in Orlando to see Jackson and Auburn beat Doug Flutie and Boston College 33-26. Three Florida State losses I also witnessed with Jackson and Tigers, a 42-41 barn burner in Tallahassee, a close 27-24 Tiger comeback and a 59-27 late Tiger blowout, both on the plains. Jackson killed my Seminoles in that 1985 game, with a couple of long touchdown runs.
Of course, Bo knows the NFL as well, as Jackson played for the LA Raiders from 1987 until his injury in 1990. I am certainly not a member of Raider Nation, but boy was he gifted and fun to watch. I watched live on Monday Night along with much of the nation as he taught a lesson to Seattle and former OU standout linebacker Brian Bosworth.
Where I really became a personal fan of Bo was during his Major League Baseball career, which began as a member of my beloved Kansas City Royals. Bo got offended by the Tampa Bay Buccaneer leadership, so rather than being the first pick in the NFL Draft and being a Buc, he went full MLB. What fun!
At the time, Kansas City spent spring training in Baseball City, just 30 minutes (at the time) south of Orlando. We went to 75% of the games down there, and it was just a thrill to interact with Bo and all the Royals, inclusive of inaugural Hall of BAHL entrant George Brett. At Baseball City, they had a replica crown out in center field. Bo blasted one over that one time, and we really have no idea where that smash landed.
Jackson starred with the Royals from 1986 to 1990, but the football injury played a role in his departure from Kansas City. After his time with the Royals, Jackson did continue his MLB career, most notably with the Chicago White Sox.
Bo Jackson was perhaps the best athlete I have ever seen, especially in person. He is a superstar, and I am thrilled to welcome Bo to The Hall of BAHL.
IRVING FRYAR
As a young, Nebraska Football was what is all about, and in 1983, the Huskers were set to roll with the Scoring Explosion, a group of skill position players seemingly not rival in the nation. There was superstar option quarterback Turner Gill, Heisman Trophy running back Mike Rozier, and All America wide receiver Irving Fryar. With a defense that was not dominant, the Huskers fell short of winning the National Championship against Miami in a humid night in Miami’s Orange Bowl (I was there). But Fryar, know as “The Fly Man,” was sensational as a Husker, earning consensus All America honors as a senior, but he did have a meaningful drop on a perfectly throw touchdown pass in that game that has been cemented for the wrong reasons in Husker lore. I always loved his game, and he was a personable dude as well so I always appreciated The Fly Man. The display he put on at Minnesota was one for ages! As Pete Najarian!
Fryar went on to be the first player selected in the NFL Draft by the New England Patriots. Fryar was a strong player, but he had several off the field missteps, which were well documented in the media. Fryar not only flashed on the field, but there was that smile! Well, he seemingly wore out his welcome with the Patriots but then he moved to the Miami Dolphins where we was excellent. He then went to the Eagles for some other extremely productive season before closing his career out with the Washington Redskins.
Fryar made 5 Pro Bowls, and ranks high in NFL history in several categories, including touchdowns and total yards. Fryar was the first player to record a touchdown catch in 17 consecutive seasons and is the oldest player to have four touchdown catches in a game.
Fryar’s problems with the law have sadly continued after his playing days, including serving a prison sentence after being convicted, along with his mother, for mortgage fraud. This has been a lifetime issue, and had Fryar stayed out of trouble quite likely would be wearing a gold jacket. It seems under it all Fryar is a good dude, but he can’t seem to elude trouble.
Eluding defenders is something he excelled at on the gridiron, and I am always cheering him on. Wish he would turn up in Lincoln from time to time, where he could find support to hit it straight and narrow with his extended Husker family. The troubles are not optimal, but I have always been a fan I welcome Fryar to The Hall of BAHL.
Rush Limbaugh, the Doctor of Democracy, passed away today the age of 70 due to lung cancer.
Rush began his career working with the Kansas City Royals, and remained close friends with Royal Hall of Famer George Brett. As a life long Royals whose favorite all time player is George Brett, I felt I had a sort of kinship with the both of them.
I started listening to Rush in 1989 and have always been proud to be a dittohead. Rush saved talk radio, and paved the way for many people who are stalwarts in the industry today, inclusive of Mark Levin, Sean Hannity and Glenn Beck. We all owe a debt gratitude to Rush for that alone.
The left despised Rush, considering him the most dangerous man in America. As far as identifying their hideous objectives, they had good reason to be alarmed. Nobody understood the political landscape like El Rushbo. He had a keen ability to ascertain the political objectives and avenues of pursuit of those trying to transform our beloved United States of America.
Rush provided political theatre which was entertaining and astonishingly accurate. He treated his audience with respect and kindness, and made us all welcome to be a party to it all.
President Donald Trump recently awarded Rush Limbaugh the Presidential Medal of Freedom. It was an honor which floored Limbaugh, but it was very well deserved.
Rush Limbaugh cannot be replaced. I will miss him dearly. RIP Rush!
Rush employed many guest hosts over the years, but perhaps the favorite of the legion of Limbaugh followers was Mark Steyn, whose employed with elegance outstanding knowledge and wit. Steyn is fantastic.
Today, on Steynonline, Mark Steyn penned a post about Rush that says it all. Please read the piece, linked below, which closes in the best possible way: Talent Returned to God!
Sports is and always has played a significant role in my life. I have found that most all of life's lessons are learned between the lines. Discipline, individual responsibility, teamwork and sportsmanship are among many opportunities presented within the games that offer guidance to prosper in life.
Over the years, there have been many individuals associated with sports that I have looked up to, been a fan of, owned a jersey of or just pulled for. These are my guys, and although it has not always been a road without bumps for many, these are my guys.
In an effort to recognize these folks, I have formed The Hall of BAHL.
Individuals making this list may or may not be the greatest ever players, coaches or ambassadors, but they are my favorites.
Each year, I will induct five members into The Hall of BAHL. In honor of my good buddy and Sportsman Big Ole BudFeiser, who we lost in 2011 and who I grew up playing sports with, each class will annually be announced on his birthday, June 13.
The inductees for the 2016 Hall of BAHL class are listed in no particular order below:
TOM RATHMAN
The Pride of Grand Island, Tom Rathman burst on he scene in Lincoln as a hard nosed fullback and catalyst of the the 'Huskers powerful rushing attack. The position was mainly a blocking position at that time for the Big Red, but Rathman possessed skills that allowed him, and the position, to elevate to become more of a weapon in the triple option attack.
While Rathman has strong footing in 'Husker lore, it is time professionally with the San Francisco 49ers that got Rathman the high level of accolades he deserves.The 49ers employed a version of offense he had previously learned, which was labeled the west coast offense, as Walsh won several Super Bowls while at San Francisco. Rathman emerged as a serious threat as a receiver out of the backfield, presenting coverage mismatches for linebackers trying to cover him When they did get hold of Rathman, they were punished by his bruising running style.
Until the NFL banned the activity, both Rathman and fellow 49ers teammate Roger Craig, both 'Huskers, wore the a tribute to the 'Huskers on their helmets. Man, did I appreciate that gesture.
Rathman left the 49ers to play for the LA Raiders for a short while, but post playing days Rathman joined the 49ers as an assistant. In fact, despite several coaching changes, Rathman remains running backs coach for the stories franchise.
Rathman, The Pride of Grand Island, is one of my favorite players of all time, both at Nebraska and during those glory days with San Francisco. We welcome Tom Rathman to The Hall of BAHL ALEX GORDON I grew up a fan of the Kansas City Royals, but after Major League Baseball failed to play The World Series due to a strike, and coinciding with the retirement of my baseball hero George Brett, I sort of got involved with other things and only paid passing attention to my Royals, who became one of baseball's worst teams.
I continued to follow college baseball, and took note of a Lincoln Southeast product named Alex Gordon, who starred for the hometown Cornhuskers.
Gordon won the Golden Spikes award as the nations top player, and then was drafted by the Kansas City Royals.
Along with others to be sure, Alex has led the Royals back to prominence, playing in back to World Series and winning the Series last fall.
Over the last several years, in part due to Gordon, I have once again began closely following my old Royals. My family has attended games in St Petersburg when the Royals have face the Tampa Bay Rays, and even saw Gordon hit a home run to top the Texas Rangers in a game at Kauffman Stadium in 2014.
At the major league level, Gordon is a consensus All Star and Gold Glove winner displaying tremendous ability in left field. Gordon just signed a huge contract with the Royals, which will likely keep him in Kansas City for the remainder of his career, placing him in Forever Royal lore similar to George Brett.
Kansas City always has college night, welcoming nearby teams with special events and seating packages. Gordon always welcomes the Big Red when they come to town. Gordon has been very generous to the Nebraska community, donating heavily to the university. Per UN, "The Alex Gordon Training Complex was completed in the fall of 2011 at a cost of $4.75 million, renamed the Alex Gordon Training Complex following a $1 million donation from the Alex Gordon Family."
We are thrilled to welcome former 'Husker and current World Champion Kansas City Royal Alex Gordon to the 2016 Hall of BAHL.
ARNOLD PALMER
As a kid, I had the pleasure of following Arnold Palmer around as part of Arnie's Army at the Florida Citrus Open at Rio Pinar Country Club, the PGA stop in Orlando. I got his autograph several times, and he was always a complete gentleman, even with all us little kids hovering around.
Lee Trevino was my favorite, but I was also a fan of both Jack Nickluas and Arnold Palmer as well.
In 1979, Arnold Palmer got command of the local tournament, moving it from Rio Pinar to his new Bay Hill development in southwest Orlando. At the time, I did not like that at all. My Grandparents were members at Rio Pinar, and it seemed like all the fun was over.
But looking back, Rio Pinar was not the type of facility needed for Orlando to keep it's PGA stop, and the move to Bay Hill. with Palmer's association, seemed like a perfect match. So it was, the Bay Hill Classic was born in 1979 with Arnold Palmer as host. Palmer would never win his host tournament.
It was unknown at the time, but Arnold Palmer would go one to become one of Orlando's top ambassadors, from hosting his tournament to donating millions to the construction of a hospital in downtown Orlando, The Arnold & Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Children, which opened on Palmer's 60th birthday in 1989. Orlando is very proud of this wonderful addition to our community, and the hospital is one of only six hospitals nationwide to focus on the needs of women and children. The impact and generosity of Arnold Palmer to the Orlando community is immeasurable.
Arnold Palmer, Orlando's most famous resident, is welcomed into the 2016 Hall of BAHL.
ROGER CRAIG
Roger Craig came to Nebraska from Davenport, IA to play tailback for the 'Huskers, considered a sure fire Heisman candidate. Craig had a brilliant combination of power and speed and a unique running style that was certain to help bring Coach Tom Osborne his first national championship.
Craig was as advertised, and had some wonderful moments of the field. But things would soon change as future Heisman Trophy winner Mike Rozier arrived in Lincoln. Rozier was a gifted player, but Craig was much to talented to just play second team, so Osborne and his staff found was to keep Craig on the field, at times lining him up at fullback.
Craig performed strongly, even running for 94 yards and a touchdown against Florida State in Lincoln in a 34-14 win. But while Craig raced around and through the Big 8, he made the most noteworthy chapters in his career as a running back with the San Francisco 49ers.
Craig was unstoppable in he 49er offense of Coach Bill Walsh. In fact, Craig became the first player to reach 1000 yards both in rushing and receiving. Craig helped the 49ers win several Super Bowls, including a defeat of Dan Marino and the Miami Dolphins in 1984, when Craig scored 4 touchdowns.
Until the NFL banned the activity, both Craig and fellow 49ers teammate Tom Rathman, both 'Huskers, wore the a tribute to the 'Huskers on their helmets. Man, did I appreciate that gesture.
The Hall of BAHL is delighted to welcome Roger Craig to the Hall of BAHL as a 2016 inductee. MICKEY ANDREWS
For sure, the emergence of Florida State on the national scene was the direct result of legendary coach Bobby Bowden. But, Bowden always had a very good staff, and chief among those staff members who played a vital role in helping Bowden and Florida State gain and maintain their status among the nations elite was longtime defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach Mickey Andrews.
Coach Andrews, who played under Bear Bryant at Alabama, is a mild a speaking fellow as you will ever meet in person, but on the field, he is tough and commands the respect of all his players.
But they all love him, inclusive of famed corner Deion Sanders, pictured at left with Coach Andrews. One of the things about Andrew's coaching style that gave FSU and edge was the attacking style Andrews employed.
Many a talented corner came through town, from Sanders to Terrell Buckley, and they made life miserable for opposing wide receivers. The attacking nature of the unit was not left to the defensive backfield, it also incorporated the ends and linebackers, who were always able to run, cover the field from sideline to sideline.
Through my associations with FSU Boosters, I had the opportunity to meet and visit with Coach Andrews on many occasions, and always thoroughly enjoyed those times. Mickey went out with Bobby, which seems fitting. Coach Andrews was beloved, not only by his players, but by FSU fans throughout Seminole Nation.
Ole Mickey Andrews joins the Hall of BAHL in the 2016 class of inductees.
Sports is and always has played a significant role in my life. I have found that most all of life's lessons are learned between the lines. Discipline, individual responsibility, teamwork and sportsmanship are among many opportunities presented within the games that offer guidance to prosper in life.
Over the years, there have been many individuals associated with sports that I have looked up to, been a fan of, owned a jersey of or just pulled for. These are my guys, and although it has not always been a road without bumps for many, these are my guys. In an effort to recognize these folks, I have formed The Hall of BAHL.
Individuals making this list may or may not be the greatest ever players, coaches or ambassadors, but they are my favorites.
Each year, I will induct five members into The Hall of BAHL. In honor of my good buddy and Sportsman Big Ole BudFeiser, who we lost in 2011 and who I grew up playing sports with, each class will annually be announced on his birthday, June 13.
The inductees for the 2015 Hall of BAHL class are listed in no particular order below:
DICK HOWSER It is not often in sports when some of your favorite people get to play integral roles for your favorite college and professional teams, but for me, Dick Howser was such a man. Howser was the first All America baseball player at Florida State University, twice earning the honor as a shortstop. Howser was signed by the Kansas City Athletics, and earned rookie of the year honors.
After his playing career ended, he joined the New York Yankees as third base coach, even managing a game during the 1978 season. Howser came home to Florida State to become manager in 1979, but was hired away to become the Yankees skipper in 1981. He was then hired to manage the Kansas City Royals, who he led to many division titles which culminated in wining the 1985 World Series.
While managing the 1986 All Star Game for the American League, players and announcers noticed Howser was not himself. He stepped aside for treatment for what was diagnosed as a brain tumor. Howser tried to return to the Royals in 1987, but it was not to be due to his condition.
'No matter how you prepare for this day, when it actually happens, it's a shock,'' said George Brett, the Royals' third baseman. ''You just hate to see him go. He's going to be missed.''
In 1988, during a preseason game where the Kansas City Royals came to Tallahassee to play the Seminoles, a game I was fortunate to attend and have a commemorative bat from, FSU names the on campus baseball stadium in honor of Howser as Dick Howser Stadium was born. As reported by Seminoles.com, "As part of the stadium dedication, Kansas City all-stars George Brett and Bo Jackson helped unveil a new $150,000 matrix scoreboard and a bronze bust of Howser.
Hoswer has had his number retired by both the Florida State Seminoles and the Kansas City Royals, with bronze statues at both baseball parks. I have visited both of these personally, and they are beautiful tributes to an individual who is among the most beloved people to grace those places.
It is an honor to induct forever Royal Dick Howser, an unconquered Seminole, to the Hall of BAHL.
WARRICK DUNN
Back in Baton Rouge, LA, Florida State commit Warrick Dunn was dealt a tragic blow as his mother, Betty Smothers, a Baton Rouge police officer, was shot to death in the line of duty. This tragic event, which made Warrick head of his household, could have derailed many a young man, but Smothers did not raise such a man. Dunn held steady on his commitment to Florida State, where he became one of the most gifted players ever to wear the garnet and gold.
Dunn possessed blazing speed and was member of the FSU track team, but it was his cat quickness with great vision that he was noted for. Dunn was stellar in evading would be tacklers and was brilliant catching the ball out of the backfield. More important, although soft spoken, Dunn was a team leader, a young man of great character who was a role model for his teammates and fans.
Dunn helped Florida State win the schools first National Championship in 1993, and in integral play in that season was a tough win at Florida, where Dunn took a swing pass from Charlie Ward and raced for a score late to capture the win.
Dunn closed out his FSU career as the school leader in career rushing yards, most rushing yards in a season and became the only Seminole to rush for over 1000 in three consecutive seasons. Dunn's number 28 jersey has appropriately been retired by Florida State.
Dunn played in the NFL for over a decade, beginning and ending with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a few years as an Atlanta Falcon in between. Dunn was the offensive rookie of the year with Tampa Bay, and was a three time Pro Bowl selection. Beyond the field, Dunn won several citizenship awards, including winning the prestigious Walter Peyton Man of The Year Award.
In honor of his mother, Dunn began a program to build houses through his Home for the Holidays program as part of his foundation Warrick Dunn Charities which helps single parent families attain home ownership through a partnership with Habitat for Humanity. "Warrick Dunn Charities has awarded millions in furnishings, food and other donations to single-parent families and children across the nation to combat poverty, hunger and ensure families have comfortable surroundings and basic necessities to improve their quality of life."
Warrick Dunn was a great football player, but perhaps he is even a greater individual. Seminole Nation is very proud to have Warrick as one of our best players and representatives of our beloved University. Throughout his life, Dunn has exhibited the principles and values that honor the core beliefs of the Seminoles, perhaps a live illustration of the unconquered.
It is a thrill to have FSU and Tampa Bay standout Warrick Dunn among those in the Hall of BAHL.
JIMBO FISHER
For the Florida State faithful, it was most difficult to part ways with legendary football coach Bobby Bowden, who built not only the Florida State football program, but played a significant role in the growth of the university itself. But for most, there was only one choice to follow Bowden's path, and that was Jimbo Fisher.
Fisher had a strong relationship with Terry Bowden, who Fisher played quarterback for and later coached with, ending up at Auburn together as part of the Tigers undefeated 1993 season. Fisher would continue to polish his craft before becoming offensive coordinator under Bobby Bowden at FSU. Fisher developed a keen ability to groom the quarterback position, but learned a great deal about team structure and leadership during a stint at LSU, where Fisher was offensive coordinator when the Bayou Tigers won the national title.
Fisher started strong at FSU, and while there were some growing pains, which included a couple of head scratching losses, a culture of winning was being built by Fisher. If you would ever speak to Jimbo about what he calls the organization, you would promptly recognize that Fisher has complete control and confidence in his mission in developing young men in the pursuit of excellence. Nothing is left to chance in the development of the organization, and young men are held accountable to the team and themselves. The team is a family, and this is not by coincidence.
When Fisher was introduced as head coach at FSU, he said "Empowered, confident athletes are winners. My goal is to get the structure, the staff and the support resources in place to facilitate a winning plan and get players into the structure and start effecting change. Now." The grade in accomplishing that plan is A+.
Fisher quickly set the tone, and after losing four games in each of his first four seasons, the Seminole jumped up a few levels and won the 2013 National Championship with a victory of Auburn. In addition, quarterback Jameis Winston won the Heisman Trophy. Before losing in the College Football Playoff to Oregon, the Seminoles has ran off a school record 29 game winning streak.
Fisher has returned Florida State to the national elite, with stellar recruiting as young men want to come and be a part of the working to achieve greatness. Jimbo is a favorite of the FSU faithful, and he can remain parked in Tallahassee as long as he wishes.
Florida State head football coach Jimbo Fisher is welcomed into the Hall of BAHL.
ERIC CROUCH Eric Crouch was the third Nebraska player to win the Heisman Trophy winning the coveted award in 2001 after a brilliant senior campaign which culminated in the 'Huskers losing to the Miami Hurricanes in The Orange Bowl.
The Omaha Millard North product compiled a 35-7 record as starting quarterback for Nebraska, and left left Nebraska in possession of 32 school records. At the time, Crouch was one of just three quarterbacks in NCAA history rush for 3000 yards and pass for 4000 yards in a career.
Crouch broke top ranked Oklahoma's back on a reverse 41 yard touchdown catch, pummeled a would be Iowa tackler on the way to paydirt and delivered a blow to Hall of Famer Ed Reed in a losing effort in The Orange Bowl. But, Crouch really dazzled the faithful with a breathtaking touchdown run at Missouri, an integral part of the highlight reel that helps secure a Heisman.
Crouch remains in Nebraska and close to the program, doing work for FOX Sports and the Big Ten Network. I had a chance to meet him in New York City on Heisman weekend one time, while he did not have the look of an elite athlete, lest there be no doubt he is one of the best players in the storied Nebraska football history.
Crouch vs. Notre Dame
Crouch vs. OU/Getty image
BAHL Revere is pleased to induct Nebraska's Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Eric Crouch into the BAHL Hall of Fame.
CHRIS WEINKE
Chris Weinke came to Florida State an unusual way. After originally signing a letter of intent to play football at Florida State out of after Cretin-Derham Hall High School in St. Paul, MN, Weinke ended up spending six seasons in the minor leagues with the Toronto Blue Jays. Coach Bobby Bowden promised his scholarship would be honored if he decided to come, Weinke retired from the Blue Jays and arrived at FSU at the age of 25.
Weinke was the starting quarterback for Florida State in 1998-99. After leading the Seminoles to a 9-1 record in 1998, Weinke was forced to sit due to a neck injury suffered late in the year. Healthy, Weinke returned to lead the Seminoles to an undefeated season culminating with FSU winning it's second National Title with a 46-29 victory over Virginia Tech in the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans.
As president of the Seminole Club of Greater Orlando in 1999, I was able to attend this game, a game in which Weinke had a stellar performance. Beyond winning the National Title and Heisman Trophy, Weinke left FSU holding records for the most passing yards and touchdowns in a career in compiling a 32-3 record as the starting quarterback.
Weinke had numerous plays which could compile a lengthy highlight reel, perhaps Weinke is best known for this backbreaking play against Clemson, deemed "The Play Fake".
Weinke played several years in the NFL most notably with the Carolina Panthers. Since his retirement, Weinke has dabbled in many arenas and is now quarterbacks coach of the St. Louis Rams after being head coach at IMG Academy in Florida.
Florida State remains special to Chris Weinke, and he is no stranger to the program, attending many events and games while cheering on our beloved Seminoles. Weinke is a very special player in the history of FSU football, and among the hearts of Seminole Nation.
Chris Weinke, Heisman Trophy winning quarterback of the Florida State Seminoles, is welcomed as part of the 2015 Hall of BAHL class.
For the first time since winning the 1985 fall classic, the Kansas City Royals are about to take the field in the The World Series, hosting the San Francisco Giants in the first of the best of seven series.
The run to get to this point has been awesome, and in attending my first home Royals game since 1978 back in September, I lay claim to bringing them good luck. But really, this collection of players and coaches exemplify everything you want in a sports team.
While I wish the best for Florida State's own Buster Posey of the Giants, it is 'Husker Alex Gordon I hope will lead the Royals to the world championship.
Husker Cheer, Alex Gordon, Darin Erstad and Herbie Husker
Good Luck to the Royals, a class organization built from within, with a great group of young players representing them. George Brett and I will be cheering them on.
For the first time since 1985, behind Eric Hosmer and former 'Husker Alex Gordon, the Kansas City Royals are playoff bound! Along with George Brett, I celebrate. #TakeTheCrown
This past Sunday was Fathers Day, a very special day across the fruited plain.
For those who no longer have the opportunity to visit with your Dad, we hope you had a day of embracing fond memories. Hopefully, for those that can, an opportunity was seized to visit and reminisce. For those who regrettably were unable to experience this gem of life, prayers are extended that in your life you will be able create a new path of love and family. Certainly, special recognition goes out to Dads whose sons and daughters are away from home fighting for the home of the free and the brave.
I had a very enjoyable day with my family at Tropicana Field in Saint Petersburg. Alex Gordon, picture below left in warmups, drove in two runs as the visiting Kansas City Royals defeated the Tampa Bay Rays 5-3. Hall of Famer George Brett, an inaugural member of The Hall of BAHL pictured at right, looked like he could pinch hit at any moment.
A wonderful video turned up over the weekend, expressing in eloquence the sentiments many of us have for Dads. Many are small memories of a special day, or maybe that summer trip, but recognizing the many sacrifices made on our behalf. Please take a listen:
A real tear jerker indeed. Make you appreciate life and the fragility associated with it.
Weighing heavily on the minds of many of us takes to a place of some other Fathers; our Founding Fathers.
In recent years, our government has been acting in violation of the founding principle set forth by our Founding Fathers. These are simple principles, focused on freedom and liberty and the right to pursue happiness for all. These principles placed the power in the people, recognizing the incentives and dreams of the individual can produce great things which can benefit society in a ripple effect of ways.
Our current government leaders think government can dictate your affairs much more efficiently than you can, and aim to place you in a box by controlling your educational and health care opportunities, all while regulating and taxing success in effort to help those on the low end of the spectrum through wealth transformation.
This is not the place of the government to dictate, rather the market. While most everyone welcomes a safety net for those who fall on hard times, having 47% of the population on government assistance is a marker of failure.
Our Founding Fathers would not be at all pleased. In all his brilliance, Michael Ramirez of Investors Business Daily has again captured the minds of those who recognize what is happening in America.
I hope everyone had a wonderful Fathers Day. With the day of recognition in the rear view mirror, it is time for all of us, Fathers of the great experiment of America, to honor not only our Fathers, but our Founding Fathers, in working to defeat on the battlefield of ideas those that wish to trample on those divinely inspired founding principles our Founding Fathers gave us.
Major League Baseball opens today. The sport is making strong gains in recent years gaining back many of the fans lost after failing to play the World Series in 1994. Even I am paying more attention, which is saying a lot.
Back when I was a big time fan, my team was the Kansas City Royals, led by Hall of Famer third baseman George Brett. Brett had a storied career and remains the only player to win batting titles in three different decades. In his career, Brett played in over a dozen All Star games, but never one in which the city of Kansas City hosted.
This season, Kansas City will honored to host the All Star game. Appropriately, George Brett has been named city ambassador. Brett discussed the honor and the excitement in Kansas City. Take a listen.
Certainly, there can be no better ambassador for the Royals and Kansas City than George Brett. Be sure to give everyone the Royal treatment and you guys have a damn good time!
Many young men are coming face to face with the decision of a lifetime, one which will no doubt play a very significant role in their future. Although I don't usually like the decision, more often than not, the young men are making the right call.
Although I am a casual Major League Baseball fan, college football is my sport, a sport losing several potential All America type players to the hardball. In fact, it seems my teams, Florida State and Nebraska, were sent on a MLB caused coordinated slide.
It appears it all began when Nebraska signed a player from Houston Jefferson Davis to a national letter of intent, who was a first round MLB selection. Carl Crawford is now among the top players in Major League Baseball, moving this past year from the Tampa Bay Rays over to the Boston Red Sox. Heisman Trophy winner Chris Weinke, signed by Florida State out of Cretin-Derham Hall High School in St. Paul, MN, spent six years with the Toronto Blue Jays before returning to Florida State and winning the national championship and playing half a decade in the NFL. The Seminoles were stung again when three sport superstar Joe Mauer, remarkably out the same high school as Weinke, never enrolled at FSU, rather becoming the top player on the MLB diamond as a catcher with the hometown Minnesota Twins. While Weinke was never close to achieving the success of Crawford or Mauer on the diamond or in terms of financial compensation, he earned a nice financial foundation playing minor league ball, and post FSU in the NFL.
This year, another decision had to be made. Enter Bubba Starling, a top rated signal caller, who signed with Nebraska although he was certain to be a top draft pick in baseball. Starling was highlighted in a piece by Sports Illustrated earlier this spring. Take a look:
Like Mauer, Starling was selected by his hometown team, the Kansas City Royals, as the fifth pick in the draft. Football at the University of Nebraska or a big paycheck and a chance to play for years with the Royals, significantly lessening the chance of a career ending injury.
As you may suspect, although I think Starling really wanted to play pigskin with the Big Red, he signed on with the Kansas City Royals, reportedly signing a deal worth a guaranteed $7.5 million. Starling made the right decision no doubt. Most 'Huskers are also Royals fans, myself included, and the Royals future is bright as they have a fine young team that will no doubt be enhanced by the skills Starling possess. Starling will be joining Alex Gordon, the NCAA National Player of the Year as a senior baseballer at Nebraska in the Royals outfield.
I join Nebraska Coach Bo Pelini and Cornhuskers nationwide in wishing Bubba Starling all the best. Say Hi to George and Go Big Red!
Sports is and always has played a significant role in my life. I have found that most all of life's lessons are learned between the lines. Discipline, individual responsibility, teamwork and sportsmanship are among many opportunities presented within the games that offer guidance to prosper in life.
Over the years, there have been many individuals associated with sports that I have looked up to, been a fan of, owned a jersey of or just pulled for. These are my guys, and although it has not always been a road without bumps for many, these are my guys.
In an effort to recognize these folks, I announce The Hall of BAHL. Individuals making this list may or may not be the greatest ever players, coaches or ambassadors, but they are my favorites.
Each year, I will induct five members into The Hall of BAHL.
In honor of my good buddy and Sportsman Big Ole BudFeiser, who we lost earlier this year and who I grew up playing sports with, each class henceforth will be announced on his birthday, June 13.
The inductees for the inaugural Hall of BAHL class are listed below:
BOBBY BOWDEN
Former Florida State football coach Bobby Bowden, who built Florida State from nothing into a national power, is a man I have held in the highest admiration from the moment he came to FSU.
Coach Bowden is no doubt one of the best coaches to ever blow a whistle, but his faith, attitude, competitiveness, perseverance and integrity helped mold most of the young men he came in contact with to be better men.
All of us who have been around Coach Bowden just love him, and we will all be forever grateful to him for what he has meant to our beloved Florida State University.
TOM OSBORNE
Dr. Tom Osborne, who guided The University of Nebraska to three national championships in his 25 year head coaching career, is another I hold in the highest regard. Plain spoken, Osborne is a Nebraskan who jumped from assistant under Bob Devaney to guide the Cornhuskers from 1973 to 1997.
Osborne, who holds a doctorate in educational psychology from UNL, served 6 years in the US House of Representatives before coming back to UNL to become Althletic Director and program losing the identity he developed during his tenure.
Even though he was winning big, Dr. Tom was almost run out of town in the early going, but through his discipline approach relying on the principles that Nebraska is known for, faith, hard work and personal accountability, Osborne walked away from the game on a five year run of three national titles and a 60-3 record, dominating the game.
RICHARD PETTY
Richard Petty has won more NASCAR races than anyone, driving his famed Petty blue stock car for five decades. Petty won his final race, his 200th, on Independence Day in 1984, with President Ronald Reagan in attendance.
"The King", Petty helped bring NASCAR from a truly regional sport to the multi-billion dollar operation it is today through not only his winning races, but his transcending smile and personality.
I grew up a fan of Petty, and was in Daytona as he guided his #43 STP Pontiac Grand Prix around the high banks on his farewell tour for the last time. Petty remains a car owner and continues to do promotional appearances, ever so high in stature as NASCAR's King Richard.
GEORGE BRETT
I became a Kansas City Royals fan when I had occasion to catch some games in Kansas City in the mid '70s, and as a young aspiring third basemen, became a fan of George Brett.
When the Royals held spring training down in Haines City at Baseball City, I got a chance to visit with him frequently.
Brett was stellar player, and ranks among the best hitters ever to play the game. In fact, Brett is the only player to win the batting title in three different decades (76, 80, 90). Although a jokester with a charming smile, Brett was a fiery competitor. His run at Ted Williams record .406 batting average in 1980 was one for the ages.
George remains a consultant with Royals to this day.
KEITH JACKSON
By far, college football is my favorite sport. I rarely missed televised games as a child, and calling the play by play describing the color and pageantry of NCAA College Football was ABC's Keith Jackson.
Mr. College Football, Jackson had a unique way of bringing the game to viewers who watched from couches across the fruited plain. Jackson respected and promoted the traditions, coaches and players and rivalries which make the game special.
Terms of endearment to the game such as "Whoa Nelly", "The Big Uglies" and "Fumble" will never be forgotten, nor will Jackson. Keith Jackson, a big man at 6'4 275, is a bigger man in the annuals of America's greatest game, NCAA College Football.
BAHL is a REALTOR, Real Estate Investor and Residential Real Estate Appraiser in Orlando. He holds a BS degree in Economics from Florida State University.
