Summer Has Come to a Close

If you were up and on the road before gas stations open on the weekdays this summer and happened to be driving down the interstate from Atlanta to northeast Georgia, there is a good chance that blue and silver bullet you saw on the highway was Ole Blue. Those who know me realize that calling my truck a bullet would suggest that my truck and me may travel even somewhat fast. That is a loosely-worded suggestion.

This summer I completed my first of two fieldworks (or an internships for you non-OT people) towards my occupational therapy degree and was lucky enough to be at Peachtree Orthopaedic Physical Therapy (POC) in Dunwoody, an outpatient clinic.

POC is the official orthopeadic company for the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Hawks, which all is good and fun to say but to those of you about to ask, do you think Braves General Manager Frank Wren would let a student rehab his players? You know better. The Hawks and Braves have their own therapists that go to the players anyway, but it was a tremendous learning experience nonetheless.

My fieldwork educator was Missy Thurlow, a well-respected hand therapist in Georgia and throughout the Southeast. Not only was she able to guide me through the summer and provide instructions from how to fill out charts to dealing with problem patients, but she will hopefully serve as a huge resource as I set out on the hunt for a job this time next year. She deserves all my thanks for taking me under her caring wing for the past three months.

Missy and one of her more famous patients,
 the world's No. 1 golfer Rory McIlroy.

While at POC, I was able to see everything I could have possibly wanted to. I followed a doctor around in the office to see what an initial visit looks like before we OTs will ever see them. I saw multiple days of surgery, which was much more interesting than I could have ever imagined. So much so that I have talked to some of the new first year students about joining in on some of their cadaver labs so I might can perform my own surgeries.

By the end of the summer, I had my own case load and was acting as a full-fledged therapist, except for having to have my documentation co-signed by a licensed occupational therapist. I even  joined a hand therapist professional group, the Georgia Hand and Upper Extremity Special Interest Group. 

I can also say that I have been one of those miserable rush hour commuters in the Atlanta area. Never again. Not saying I would never live there, but I will not commute in-and-out everyday. You know how I know Georgia Tech's Engineering School isn't all it is cracked up to be? Atlanta traffic.

As busy as I was I still had time to go and vacation a couple of weeks, to Passport with the youth from FBC Gainesville, a beach trip with the family, moving across town, and a trip to Arkansas. The summer was busy, but undoubtedly better than school.

Now that I am not waking up before the sun every day and commuting to Atlanta, much of my effort will be focused on school and my thesis. Only one more year -- and passing grades-- remains between me and a Master's of Science in Occupational Therapy from Brenau University.

On top of conducting research and eventually writing a 200-page paper with three of my new best friends, I continue to find things around the Poultry Capital of the Word (Gainesville) to keep me out of too much trouble. As some of you have seen or read, I have joined the staff at ArkansasExpats.com, a website devoted to the Razorbacks, and will produce a weekly column, which will run on Fridays previewing the upcoming weekend.

On Friday nights, you can come watch high school football with me as, different from last year when I was in the newsroom, I will actually go to games, sit in the press box, and write a story for the local newspaper The Times in Gainesville.

Then Sunday mornings will be filled with the inappropriateness of seventh and eighth grade boys in my Sunday School class. Big weekends in store for this fall.

When I was in Arkansas, my grandmother asked, "So your writing a weekly column, covering football, and writing for your own blog, and you're going to be a therapist?" My response, "Yep." It is a way for me to scratch a new found itch that I love, but I know could never make a career out of it.

I also learned that my grandfather was a paperboy when he was young, my old man was a copy editor for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, and now I am just keeping the family tradition going.

With that being said, I have to go to class. It's my last first day of school.

The four of us in Gulf Shores

The Best of London 2012

I believe that everyone has a talent for doing something. Is that vague enough for you?

Each person owns a gift or ability to demonstrate a skill to an extraordinary degree, though maybe not up to Olympic standards. The sad part about this theory is that most people never realize their talent, whether by choice or lack of exposure, so they will never be able to show it off. Still lost?

Could this have been me? We will never know.

For example, and to keep with the Olympic theme, I might be the greatest fencer the world would have ever seen, but I will never be able to show off my sword-fighting skills because where I come from, we stop playing with plastic swords from the dollar store after the age of five. We move on to tee-ball and pee-wee football. Thus my talents for wielding a sword in a fancy USA mask have gone untapped.

Not everyone is deprived of an opportunity to realize their talent. Instead many, by accident or grand design, find their destined activity, but do not possess the drive to continue on with it.

Another example, which also helps exhibit that these skills are not limited to the realm of sports. For the  better part of eight years, I played trumpet. During some parts of high school, I was playing more than five hours a day in several different groups. Not to "toot my own horn'' -- yeah, I just did that -- but I was a decent musician.

Based upon my theory, I had found a skill in which I was better than most at doing. However, I had different interests which I wanted to pursue as a professional, meaning my trumpet playing would have to take a back seat to them.

Had I stuck with playing the trumpet would I be in the Boston Pops? My grandparents might think so, but more than likely not. Those performers, like Olympians, are geniuses at their craft, a level only few attain. Had I stuck with playing trumpet could I have played "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" solo on a Saturday in the fall at UGA in the South corner? I like to think I could have.

All this is a roundabout way of getting to the people who found their niche and thrived to a level few only few will ever reach. In fact, the odds against a newborn child of becoming an Olympic athlete are 2,500 to 1, 5,000 to 1 to medal ,and 10,000 to 1 to become a gold medalist.

The undisputed greatest swimmer ever, Michael Phelps started off slow but finished his alleged final Olympic swim in gold medal fashion.

How many of you actually believe this? I give it two years.

The 27-year-old will become antsy, see all of his peers still fighting to get better, and join them after some time out of the pool. I am putting my money on seeing Phelps in Rio de Janeiro and not as a commentator.

Sure he is cocky, but Bolt has every reason to be. He is a legend.

Usain Bolt joined Michael Phelps in the legendary category at the 2012 Games. While Phelps finished as the Olympics' all-time winningest athlete 22 total medals, Bolt owned the track, winning every race he competed in with ease (100-meter, 200-meter and 4x400-meter).

Bolt left little doubt that he had earned legendary status with his winning margins alone, but he made sure in every post race interview and press conference to tell the world that he indeed is a "legend" because of his performances at the last two Olympic Games. Luckily for us all, Bolt admits he will be back for 2016.

The Americans also had tremendous results on the track, especially the women. However, one of the most compelling stories was in the Men's 4x400-meter relay preliminaries. Not only had Bryshon Nellum come back from not being able to walk after sustaining gunshot wounds two years ago, to running in the Olympics, but there was Manteo Mitchell.

Mitchell finishing his broken 'leg' of the 4x400M relay.

Mitchell broke a bone in his leg during his run and still finished the final 200 meters of his 'leg' -- of course the pun is intended. He told reporters that he knew he could not stop because it would not only be a disappointment to him, but to his entire team and country. USA's 4x400-meter relay team can fly home proudly with silver medals around their necks.

Then of course there are those American teams which proved dominance over the world, causing all of us as Americans to walk a with our chests out a little bit further: Gabby Douglas and the Fab Five, Missy Franklin, the Women's basketball and soccer teams, Serena Williams, Allyson Felix, Sanya Richards-Ross, and David Boudia to name a few.

It is hard to believe that the London Olympic Games are over and we are four years away from another edition of the Summer Games. In the mean time, a 24-year-old male's greatest chance of becoming an Olympic athlete is in Equestrian at 1 in 62.

Anyone have a horse?

Honey Badger Didn't Care, Saban too Tough, Howard Happy, My New Home

Matthieu will have to look elsewhere to play this season.

There has been a celebration in the South. In small towns all over Alabama and Arkansas, chocolate fountains have been working hard, and there is a shortage of all-you-can-eat and cotton candy supplies at Golden Corrals in light of recent news out of Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

As we know, Tyrann Mathieu was dismissed from the LSU football team on Friday for an undisclosed violation of team rules, which will help the entire SEC West in their respective journeys to the SEC Championship.

Reports say that the Honey Badger could not stay away from hitting the pipe. His decision have cost selfish player playing time for the Bayou Bengals in the past, leaving coach Les Miles no other choice but to dismiss the Heisman Trophy finalist. Does this sound like someone you would want to hang out with?

On his Twitter feed, the 2011 unanimous All-American wrote, "The realist hearts have been through the most pain!! I'm out!!"

By horrifying the LSU English department, Mattieu showed again that he simply does not get it. He does not understand how actions have consequences and when you break rules -- over and over again -- you will be punished accordingly. He does not demonstrate an understanding that the game is not all about him. Now he will learn this lesson at a FCS program (reportedly McNeese State in Lake Charles, Louisiana).

As a fan of college football, it is sad to see arguably the most exciting player in the game no longer able to compete with the top talent. What is worse is when an individual with his talent, who has the chance to set an example for young people, can not get his act together though given multiple opportunities.

ALABAMA TRANSER TO TRANSFER: After four practices under Nick Saban, cornerback Travell Dixon has completed paperwork to transfer from the Crimson Tide. The junior college transfer was expected to see significant playing time, but reports from Tuscaloosa say that Dixon was experiencing, "a little overload."

Call me crazy, but isn't that what is to be expected when you commit play for Saban? Isn't that what makes playing against the Tide's defense so good and so dang difficult for opponents? Isn't that what makes Alabama players NFL ready as soon as they are drafted?

The good news is Alabama will, like LSU with Mattieu (though his back-up Tharold Simon also missed games last year because of drug related problems), fill in their new loss with another speedy monster on the depth chart.

Howard at his Laker press conference.

HOWARD APPEARS TO BE HAPPY, FINALLY : Dwight Howard was traded from the Orlando Magic to the Los Angeles Lakers this week in a four-team deal. Just go look at Y! Sports site if you want to see all of the players involved. Blogger will not let me have that long of a post.

It only took the Magic two years, a Howard agreement on an extension, and a two better offers turned down. Yes, Orlando got rid of the best defensive player in the game, and they got the fourth best player of all the teams and no one to fill Howard's void. Thirty-year-old Magic general manager Rob Hennigan has plenty of work to do. On the bright side, because of his age he has plenty of time to do it.

Keeping with the franchise tradition of big-time big men, the Lakers again stole the greatest big man in the game from Orlando as they did with Shaquille O'Neal in 1996. Other similarities include their draft position (No. 1 overall) and nickname (Superman). Remember how these two bicker about how different they are? And how Howard said he does not want to follow O'Neal professional career?

Now the Lakers are the team to beat in the Western Conference because they have the most complete starting lineup with room to add a few wiley veterans.

Some things change, but Ole Blue remains the same.

ON A PERSONAL NOTE: I would like to apologize to all three of my readers for not posting more often lately. There have been several events that I would have loved to share my opinion on, but I have been moving into a house from the south Hall County Georgia to the northern parts. The move has cut down on the time I have been able to sit down and write. However, because of the move, I now I have a beautiful new desk, a better view from my desk, and the improvements in overall quality of life that come along with moving from an apartment to a house -- like a quite night's sleep and a new pillowtop mattress, which will change your life. All are welcome.

The Five SEC Players I Would (And Would Not) Hang Out With

I recently had a conversation with a college friend of mine of a college quarterback's, now thanks to the internet  infamous tattoo. It led to the idea for this post. Without further ado, here is the list of players in the SEC, given the opportunity, I would like or would not to hang out with in no particular order.

The "Woulds":

Even Nick Saban likes Barrett Jones

Barrett Jones, Alabama center- A 2011 unanimous All-America selection and Outland Trophy winner, Jones is not only a beast on the field at 6-foot-5, 311-pounds; but he also holds a 4.0 at Alabama, while working on his masters and preparing for the CPA exam. The over-sized nerd, once finished 15th in his age division at a Scrabble competition. Oh and he has played violin continuously since age three. 

Jordan Rodgers, Vanderbilt quarterback- The community college transfer followed began the 2011 season as the No. 2 quarterback on the Commodore depth chart before taking over the starting job and topping Jay Cutler's freshmen year in total yards gained. I would hang out with Jordan on the outside shot he would bring his brother Aaron along, Super Bowl MVP and champion for the Green Bay Packers.

Knile Davis, Arkansas running back and Tyler Wilson, Arkansas quarterback- I went with a combo here for the same reason no parent wants to choose their favorite child. Davis and Wilson are arguably the top players in the SEC at their respective positions. In addition, reports came out that the duo had conversations with former Razorback coach, and poor motorcycle-driving connoisseur, Bobby Petrino over the summer. Wouldn't you like to know exactly what was said?

T.J. Moe, Missouri wide receiver- In my last post, I wrote how Moe stole the show at SEC media days with his comments of how the SEC is better than the Big 12. Other than that,  I do not know much about the No. 1 wideout on the Tiger's depth chart. However, I do know if we were to hang out there is a strong possibility I would have more one-liners to add to my arsenal, which is enough to make the list.

Johnson, stud on and off the field.

A.J. Johnson, Tennessee linebacker- Would I be a fan of his had I not moved to Gainesville, Johnson's hometown two years ago? Probably not, but after doing so and hearing some of the local lore I would like to talk to this kid and get the his full story. I have watched him on some YouTube highlights, and the more I watch the more I wish I could have seen the then Red Elephant in person. Locals here say he is a great all-around person.

Honorable Mention-

Bacarri Rambo, Georgia safety- He was called Fudge before he changed his name in grade school. I would ask for the full story.

Barkevious Mingo, LSU defensive end- The name game again. What is its origin?

Kiero Small, Arkansas fullback- The 5-foot10, 255-pound Small is a willing block seeker in the second and third level. He broke more than ten opponent's helmets and at least eight of his own in 2011.


The "Would Nots":

Tyrann Mathieu, LSU cornerback- If an explanation is necessary, just Google is name. The Honey Badger is a good ball player but has a number of character issues.

Da'Rick Rogers, Tennesee wide receiver- Yet another prima donna wide receiver, who tweets about hanging out with high school kids in hot tubs when he goes home to Calhoun, Georgia. Rogers is talented receiver who used his five-star ranking to shortchange Georgia. He switched his commitment in the last hour to the Volunteers by finagling a scholarship for his high school quarterback. A season later, he publicly announced that he was going to transfer to Georgia State after a disappointing season. These plans never worked out, and now he is still giving his all -- if that possible -- for Tennessee today.

Hard to believe the guy on the right has the art on the right inked on his chest.

A.J. McCarron, Alabama quarterback- Though he is not the reason this blog was created, he comes in a close second because of his tattoo. When one decides to go through with a terrible permanent marking on their body, they prove to me of their poor decision-making skills, which would make hanging out with him not so fun. McCarron's tattoo does just that (and he strives to be just like John Parker Wilson, Bama Bangs and all).

Brad Wing, LSU punter- Football players do not generally respect the masters of special teams (kickers and punters). Sure it was a good play, and another gutsy call by LSU coach Les Miles, but taunting the opposing team after scoring your only career touchdown (which was called back) as a punter is a quick way to find yourself on this list. Cocky punters? Nah.

Bray needs no nameplate on his jersey. He
already has a permanent one on his back.

Tyler Bray, Tennessee quarterback- The Volunteer signal caller is the proud owner of the star tattoo which brought this whole post to life. Since telling the press at SEC Media Days how proud he is of his star back-branding, Bray has thrown a temper tantrum after allegedly being told he would be evicted from his apartment complex. With his cannon-like right arm, he threw beer bottles and golf balls at a neighbor's car. Although he apologized and is paying for the damages, I am not up for a night of taking out anger through vandalism of private property.

Dishonorable Mention- 

Philip Lutzenkirchen, Auburn tight end- He added to the myth that white men can't dance with The Lutzie against Alabama in 2010.

Thoughts and opinions of my list? Or others you would want to add? Comment below.

SEC Media Days, Cam Newton Street, Hold the Joe But More Kobe Please

We find ourselves in the middle of the beginning of the unofficial kickoff of college football. A little wordy, huh? It is easier to call them the Southeastern Conference Media Days, where coaches begin to make excuses for why their team will not live up to expectations (Steve Spurrier and Joker Phillips), respond with numerous wild card answers (John L. Smith and Les Miles), or simply fulfill an obligation to their conference (Nick Saban). 

No matter how your coach answers, the SEC Media Days are the biggest of their kind for the most competitive league in any sport so enjoy the make-believe camaraderie and hopefully we get a coach to drop gems like Missouri's T.J. Moe, "They say girls are prettier here, air's fresher, and the toilet paper is thicker."

Couldn't agree 'Moe', T.J.

This lonely student's sign reads: Protect the Paterno statue.

Some Students Ask for More Joe Please:
In more Joe Paterno news, students -- a population of two -- are camping out in order to protect the statue, which remains erect outside Beaver Stadium.

An anonymous flight from Ohio read "Take down the statue, or we'll take it down for you" (a hopeful me desires for this news to be true).

I wish I would have made note of this in my last post, but the chances of the statue being vandalized is somewhere around 100%. This is all the more reason to take the thing down from its current location and follow my instructions. Students from Penn State have tweeted that "these few students do not represent the entire campus population."

All the more reason for the "protesting" students to take advantage of their parent's investment -- because it does not last forever -- in room and board, and go back to their dorm and hold their own Paterno-crazed pity party.

Cam Newton Way Should be a toll road if plan comes to fruition:
He has NFL records. He was named the NFL Rookie of the Year. He has a statue at his alma mater (Can you even call it that when he only spent eight months there and did not receive a degree from there? Or Blynn Junior College? Or Florida? I digress.). But getting a road named after him? You must be out of your mind.

He is a 23-year-old admittedly "very immature" quarterback. And while -- speaking from experience-- this is to be expected for a man of his age, let's give him some time before we Georgians give him such an honor. For one, it would cost the residents of Scarborough Road in South Atlanta money, time and effort to change their address. Residents also report to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that they are not ready to name a street after a person with a scandaled past.


A second hearing is still on the agenda where the proposition will likely be shot down. If the road does pass a second vote, can we all agree it should at least be a toll road?

Give me more Kobe
NBA Commissioner David Stern has come forward saying that at the next olympics it is possible we see the 23-and-under rule enforced. Within these parameters, USA basketball would still be able to use NBA professionals with onlythree players over the age of 23. This would help protect players in the NBA from participating in the Olympics and coming home injured a la Blake Griffin and Kyrie Irving.

If Stern gets his way, you won't see Kobe or LeBron in USA unis anymore.

Thirty-three-year-old Kobe Bryant thinks the same way I do about the Commissioner's proposal, "It's a stupid idea," Bryant said. I could not agree more with the Olympic gold medalist.

Whether or not to play should remain up to the players, who risk injury and fatigue in the next 82-game season. Some argue that NBAers in international play makes for a competitive disadvantage for the rest of the world.

Um... is that not the point of competition? To be the best? In addition to winning another gold this summer clips such as these will be recorded for all Americans to "Ohh" and "Ahh" over.

Kobe also told a Y! reporter earlier this week that it is "possible" he retires at age 35. Say it ain't so. Sure Bryant is made fun of for the number of shots he takes, but a 1 1/2 years ago he ranked as the ninth best player of all time (and his stock is only rising). Of course, he may be modeling his career even more so like his idol Michael Jordan by testing retirement and coming back as a player-manager down the road.