https://www.sportscardforum.com/blogs/36394-rainman67ko SportsCardForum is your source for everything related to sports cards for collectors and non-collectors alike! en Tue, 09 Jun 2026 03:25:14 GMT vBulletin 60 https://www.sportscardforum.com/images/misc/rss.jpg https://www.sportscardforum.com/blogs/36394-rainman67ko https://www.sportscardforum.com/entries/1218-Our-Baltimore-National-Convention-Thread-2010 Thu, 04 Aug 2011 11:05:07 GMT http://www.sportscardforum.com/showthread.php?t=1180515 *Our Baltimore National Convention Thread* ... http://www.sportscardforum.com/showthread.php?t=1180515

Our Baltimore National Convention Thread
Brandon and I are starting our vacation just ahead of the rest of the clan. If you don't know me, I have 5 boys, ages 16,17,19, and 21 and then Brandon who is almost 8. He is the collector (along with me and my money) ...so we decide to live it up at the Nationals in Baltimore this year for a couple of days before heading to the Jersey Shore (no not Seaside Heights fist pumpers) LBI as we do every year. We left the house this morning for a dentist appointment for Brandon that turned from Routine to Root Canal in 30 minutes. He was pretty uncomfortable when we started the 4 hour drive to Baltimore but the antibiotics started to kick in and he slept for about 1/2 of it. He busted his front teeth out (looking like Matt Cooke) in March and its been a saga ever since.

After checking in we went to the convention center and entered the pre show session. Wow!!! Name it and it was probably there. I have been collecting for 35+ years and this was the biggest show I have ever been to. The regional at Robert Morris in Pittsburgh is about 1/10th the scale of what we saw here. That's no knock on J.Paul Sports just an observation of shear magnitude. This show is huge.

We started to look for the SCF and Cards by the box booths. We where checking things out along the way. Very VERY cool stuff.

Panini has some samples they are giving out with purchases. Garth (Postman) was buying some basketball and gave a sample Crosby to Brandon. Being a cute kid Brandon suckered another pack out of the rep before long and pulled another Sid! It's a pretty nice card. Lots of shiny silver area...




Not to be outdone Brandon was treated to an nice one from the Upper Deck guys today. He was asked who his favorite player was (he was wearing his Pens hat - go figure) and he said "Sidney Crosby". When asked "Crosby or Malkin?" he replied "Crosby" again. The rep disappeared into a locker and came out with this nice 1/1 Crosby Magenta Printing Plate from the 2009 UD 20th anniversary set.



No freebies for me. I did pull an H&P Angelo Esposito Auto out of 2007-08 ITG.








Brandon also pulled these out of a WWE box... he loves WWE Raw!





Having fun, enjoying the time with Brandon and some SCF friends old and new. We had dinner with Garth (Postman - visiting here from Australia) and what a great guy he is. We met Tony and Don along with Dan -(Gladdyontherise) and Rich - (dcfdfireman) and they have a nice spot for sure. We did not rip or buy a lot here yet, just taking it in and enjoying the start to our vacation. We sent Mom a bunch of pics of the jacuzzi suite and the harbor LOL! Just like Zack and Cody ha ha... Tomorrow it's the pool, the National Aquarium and then lunch and the show! Maybe the O's game later on.

Thanks for the read...

Kevin

q

So day 2 started off well enough. We met Garth at the show and headed over to the Aquarium at around 10:30. He was knee deep in Jermaine O'Neal cards and searching bargain boxes for more hits for his PC.

We toured the aquarium, saw the sharks and rays among the other aquatic life, and headed for a quick lunch at the Spanish Tapas on the harbor.



You can see Brandon is feeling great and showing off the reconstructed choppers!


Then Back to the show where we picked up a few boxes, a couple of baseball jerseys, some Press Pass T-shirts, and then hunted for the singles. Afterwards we grabbed a burrito by Camden Yards, debated going to the game but since it was not the Yanks or Bucco's we opted for a nap and then hit the pool.
Brandon was pretty smoked with all the walking and admittedly I wanted the nap

Here are our pulls and picks and photos from our last day of the show.



Brandon's Wrestling collection got a huge lift today with a Kurt Angle Event Worn card and a couple more autos. I must say Miss Lacey von Erich is very pretty. He also pulled this blue printing plate (still sticky with ink!) from the TNA box.




The Two Headed Monster in silver and gold...




The 2 Penguins RC's we pulled among others from our box of 2010-11 Victory. Nice product and we'll tackle this set this fall.

Now for the Steeler's -



Rocky Bleier and Franco Harris Auto's


And in hopes of another WS Championship we picked up our first auto of the captain. It is a very clean card...



This was such a great getaway. We enjoyed the city, the food, and the people we met here. And we definitely got to see some of the best this hobby has to offer displayed at this convention. We just missed a nice Patrick Kane Hot Prospects Auto Patch RC at Don and Tony's SCF table but the owner is a member here and I'll try to hunt it down with a trade in the coming months. There is so much to take in at this event I will tell you that 2 days is not enough. And by all means bring your traders as we saw a lot of this going on. We will return to Pittsburgh tomorrow and then head to the beach for the week on Saturday. We are already considering our next National Convention trip for next year or the year after.

Thanks for the comments and the read -

Kevin and Brandon

]]> rainman67ko https://www.sportscardforum.com/entries/1218-Our-Baltimore-National-Convention-Thread-2010 https://www.sportscardforum.com/entries/1094-The-Quest-for-the-Winter-Classic-2011 Sun, 30 Jan 2011 04:49:46 GMT The Quest for the Winter Classic 2011
By Kevin O'Connor
(aka rainman67ko)
January 2011

What started as a statement of fact in “I’m so there…” back when the 2011 Winter Classic was announced for Pittsburgh last May, sounded all but lost come New Years day. I had entered in the NHL draft lottery to win a chance to buy some tickets but to no avail. Ticket prices on the internet where all over the place. They were listing anywhere from $350 up to $1350 depending on the seat. I knew a few Pens season ticket holders had some but they where all going to attend. It had been a good year for me, but not great, and after getting through some expensive home improvement projects, my budget for the Winter Classic was fixed at just below what tickets where generally listing for.

My son Blair is 18. He is the third son of five. He was out visiting for the Christmas holiday. He is an intense Penguins fan ever since I took him to a game a few years before. While we’ve always been close, both by proximity and by relationship, but when boys get older, and Dad moves to the other side of the state, quality time is harder to come by. His older brothers had returned to NJ for New Years to celebrate with girlfriends, etc. Blair and I saw this opportunity to grab the once in a life time experience and find 2 Winter Classic Tickets.

It started as a joke… then slowly, we began to plot. It was New Years Eve and we had nothing else in the world going on except to find tickets on eBay or Stubhub, or whatever outlet had them. The intensity grew with each mouse click, every page scroll, all the while our brains justifying, tricking, and trying to understand how much we would need to spend. We set a limit. Adjusted it and searched again. We rang in the New Year no closer to having tickets in hand. But this was in fact a New Year and we where resolute in our quest for the Classic. We retired to fight another day.

The morning began with a scan of the ticketing sites for price shifts, mostly up, then a fresh search on eBay. Again nothing firm within reach. Then I began to dive into the mess that is Craigslist. To my surprise it was a hive of ticketing activity. Prices were reasonable. At first all inquiries were ignored or replied with “sorry bud… sold” or some variation. A lot of jockeying could be seen taking place. The tickets that were listing for $500 OBO each were disappearing rapidly. Too rich for me I thought. Then I saw a posting “Free Ticket – Come to the Westin and wait outside between 9 and 9:15 and I’ll hand them to the first 4 people I see.” We thought it was too good but we thought this as we raced downtown. When we got outside the Westin there were 2 other people who saw the same add. Apparently a staffer or sponsor had the tickets but was not permitted to sell them and could only gift them. A few moments later we learned from another that he had actually done so inside just before 9.

It was too good to be true and now we were desperately intent on finding tickets. We went to the stadium area and spoke with some of the regular scalpers, to get a feel for the market, and gauge their confidence. You see, the weather report was ominous, and the fact that the game had been pushed to prime time was cause for concern for some. Apparently some folks couldn’t adjust plans and that is why the tickets were starting to pop up at close to reasonable prices. We missed out on no less than 3 other Craigslist deals on the way back home. These tickets where going as soon as they were listing.

We had moved our budget up one notch but I was done. The tickets in our price range were mostly gone by the time they posted. I had exhaled, accepted that I would be watching from home, and grabbed a bite to eat. Time to regroup. After I ate and looked on Craigslist one last time. There it was, like a neon sign, a new post just after hitting refresh - “Two tickets $400 OBO” and a phone number!!!

I called the out of market number as quickly as I could. The man on the other end started to tell me he had another offer and I shot him mine that was well over what he had been getting, but still under my newly adjusted, modified, broken, and modified again, final budget. That was my strategy all along, you see, I had to convince my self I was fine with not going and then it would happen. The hockey gods were good to us at that moment. He said he would hold them and to meet him on the North Shore by PNC park in 25 minutes. We drove, giddy like kids at Christmas, but still apprehensive as they were not in hand. When we pulled into his Hotel parking lot the seller said “Oh your Penguins fans…” to which I replied “yes we are” and very quickly “are you having fun here today boy this is a great event eh?” Apparently the Caps season ticket holders got the opportunity to purchase many of the Winter Classic tickets. The Capitals were well represented at the event I later observed. We exchanged the money and the tickets and wished each other well. Driving away to fist pounds and high fives with Blair, we had reached our goal, our New Years Resolution, our Winter Classic was going to be a reality in Prime Time!

The game has been chronicled by many professional sports writers, telecasters, and even HBO 24/7. This epic journey from the mustard seed idea to the realization of the goal, the journey, the experience, this was ours. Blair commented on my facebook photo again just the other night “we were crazy!” and “Thanks Dad”. That is one in the win column for me. ]]> rainman67ko https://www.sportscardforum.com/entries/1094-The-Quest-for-the-Winter-Classic-2011 https://www.sportscardforum.com/entries/888-Notre-Dame-Football-wants Sat, 08 May 2010 04:35:49 GMT Updated 5/14/2011


Looking for Notre Dame players in the ND Uniform. I'll take a look at other RC's in their NFL uni's but prefer the Gold and Blue of Notre Dame!!!

• New stuff from Panini, UD, Press Pass, Sage, Legends, etc.

• Older issues with players in ND uniform - Score, Proset, Topps, Pacific, UD, Classic, etc.

• True Rookie Cards of ND players in any uniform any issue any year.

• Any vintage of ND players (pre 1980) in NFL uniform.

PM me if you have anything for me or questions - rainman67ko

UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME
All Draftees

Year Rnd Pick Tm Name Pos



2011 2 11 MIN Kyle Rudolph TE
2011 N/A UD Armando Allen RB
2011 N/A UD Ian Williams DT
2010 2 16 CAR Jimmy Clausen QB
2010 6 14 DEN Eric Olsen C
2010 2 28 SEA Golden Tate WR
2010 6 10 DAL Sam Young OT
2010 N/A UD DEN Kyle McCarthy SS
2009 4 114 DEN David Bruton DB
2009 N/A UD HOU Darius Walker RB
2008 2 38 SEA John Carlson TE
2008 2 47 PHI Trevor Laws DT
2008 3 86 BAL Tom Zbikowski DB
2008 6 187 MIN John Sullivan C
2007 1 22 CLE Brady Quinn QB
2007 2 57 PHI Victor Abiamiri DE
2007 3 70 DEN Ryan Harris T
2007 5 166 JAX Derek Landri DT
2007 6 202 NWE Mike Richardson DB
2007 7 230 CIN Dan Santucci G
2007 7 253 CIN Nedu Ndukwe DB
2007 N/A UD NOR Rhema Mcknight WR
2006 2 53 DAL Anthony Fasano TE
2006 3 90 TAM Maurice Stovall WR
2006 6 205 NWE Dan Stevenson G
2005 3 74 NYG Justin Tuck DE
2005 5 144 STL Jerome Collins TE
2004 2 43 DAL Julius Jones RB
2004 2 60 NOR Courtney Watson LB
2004 4 122 HOU Glenn Earl DB
2004 6 170 HOU Vontez Duff DB
2004 6 180 WAS Jim Molinaro T
2003 1 21 CLE Jeff Faine C
2003 5 153 KAN Jordan Black T
2003 5 168 TAM Sean Mahan G
2003 5 170 STL Shane Walton DB
2003 6 182 BAL Gerome Sapp DB
2003 6 197 SFO Arnaz Battle WR
2003 6 212 GNB Brennan Curtin T
2002 2 52 BAL Anthony Weaver DE
2002 4 133 TEN Rocky Boiman LB
2002 5 138 DET John Owens TE
2002 6 198 PHI Tyreo Harrison LB
2002 6 206 BAL Javin Hunter WR
2002 7 253 NWE David Givens WR
2001 3 68 CHI Mike Gandy T
2001 3 86 NWE Brock Williams DB
2001 4 119 NWE Jabari Holloway TE
2001 6 178 BUF Tony Driver DB
2001 6 195 BUF Dan O'Leary TE
2001 7 213 JAX Anthony Denman LB
2000 7 214 DEN Jarious Jackson QB
1999 1 19 NYG Luke Petitgout T
1999 5 143 CHI Jerry Wisne T
1999 5 149 NYG Mike Rosenthal T
1999 5 166 PIT Malcolm Johnson WR
1999 7 210 IND Hunter Smith P
1999 7 233 TAM Autry Denson RB
1999 7 234 SFO Kory Minor LB
1998 3 85 PHI Allen Rossum DB
1997 1 21 JAX Renaldo Wynn DE
1997 2 55 SFO Marc Edwards FB
1997 3 86 IND Bertrand Berry DE
1997 3 87 CAR Kinnon Tatum LB
1997 5 135 DET Pete Chryplewicz TE
1996 2 56 GNB Derrick Mayes WR
1996 4 116 CHI Paul Grasmanis DT
1996 6 189 MIA Shawn Wooden DB
1996 6 202 BUF Dusty Zeigler C
1995 2 44 NOR Ray Zellars RB
1995 2 50 PHI Bobby Taylor DB
1995 4 120 PIT Oliver Gibson DT
1995 5 147 CLE Mike Miller WR
1995 7 242 NOR Travis Davis DB
1994 1 7 SFO Bryant Young DT
1994 1 16 GNB Aaron Taylor G
1994 1 27 BUF Jeff Burris DB
1994 2 65 MIA Tim Ruddy C
1994 3 74 CHI Jim Flanigan DT
1994 3 82 SDG Willie Clark DB
1994 3 92 KAN Lake Dawson WR
1994 5 133 IND John Covington DB
1994 5 153 SFO Tony Peterson LB
1994 7 211 MIN Pete Bercich LB
1993 1 2 SEA Rick Mirer QB
1993 1 10 RAM Jerome Bettis RB
1993 1 17 WAS Tom Carter DB
1993 1 20 NOR Irv Smith TE
1993 2 34 TAM Demetrious DuBose LB
1993 2 45 WAS Reggie Brooks RB
1993 4 107 IND Devon McDonald LB
1993 5 130 KAN Lindsay Knapp G
1993 8 200 NYJ Craig Hentrich P
1992 1 14 NYG Derek V. Brown TE
1992 2 35 NWE Rod M. Smith DB
1992 4 85 IND Rodney Culver RB
1992 4 92 PHI Tony Brooks RB
1992 4 95 NOR Gene McGuire C
1992 6 159 KAN Tony Smith WR
1992 6 163 CLE George Williams DT
1992 9 246 CHI Mirko Jurkovic G
1991 1 5 RAM Todd Lyght DB
1991 2 45 SFO Ricky Watters RB
1991 2 49 CHI Chris Zorich DT
1991 3 72 CIN Bob Dahl G
1991 4 100 RAI Rocket Ismail WR
1991 5 136 TAM Tim T. Ryan G
1991 7 185 PIT Andre Jones LB
1991 8 216 PHI Scott Kowalkowski LB
1991 9 245 CHI Mike Stonebreaker LB
1991 10 257 SDG Mike Heldt C
1990 2 36 IND Anthony Johnson RB
1990 2 40 KAN Tim Grunhard C
1990 2 41 HOU Jeff Alm DT
1990 2 49 RAM Pat Terrell DB
1990 4 91 CIN Mike Brennan T
1990 5 123 DAL Stan Smagala DB
1990 6 146 SEA Ned Bolcar LB
1990 10 262 WAS D'Juan Francisco DB
1990 12 316 IND Dean Brown G
1989 1 15 SEA Andy Heck T
1989 2 45 RAM Frank Stams LB
1989 5 130 CHI Mark Green RB
1989 6 147 MIA Wes Pritchett LB
1989 11 304 CHI George Streeter DB
1988 1 6 RAI Tim Brown WR
1988 3 69 NWE Tom Rehder T
1988 3 70 PIT Chuck Lanza C
1988 6 152 SDG Cedric Figaro LB
1988 9 226 CIN Brandy Wells DB
1987 2 48 WAS Wally Kleine T
1987 4 110 RAI Steve Beuerlein QB
1987 7 176 HOU Robert Banks DE
1987 8 210 MIA Joel D. Williams TE
1986 1 19 NYG Eric Dorsey DE
1986 3 61 HOU Allen Pinkett RB
1986 8 202 BUF Tony Furjanic LB
1986 8 209 SDG Mike Perrino T
1985 2 45 ATL Mike Gann DE
1985 3 82 HOU Mike P. Kelley C
1985 4 100 NYG Mark Bavaro TE
1985 10 255 HOU Mike Golic DT
1985 10 259 CLE Larry Williams G
1984 1 26 BUF Greg Bell RB
1984 6 164 PIT Chris D. Brown DB
1984 6 168 RAI Stacey Toran DB
1984 9 249 DAL Neil Maune G
1984 11 281 TAM Blair Kiel QB
1983 1 12 BUF Tony Hunter TE
1983 3 64 CHI Dave Duerson DB
1983 4 91 CHI Tom Thayer G
1983 5 114 HOU Larry Moriarty RB
1983 9 235 CHI Mark Zavagnin LB
1983 9 236 SEA Bob Clasby DT
1982 1 23 NYJ Bob Crable LB
1982 3 76 NOR John Krimm DB
1982 5 137 DAL Phil Pozderac T
1981 4 109 ATL John Scully G
1981 7 189 SDG Pete Holohan TE
1981 8 205 CHI Scott Zettek DT
1981 9 223 SEA Jim Stone RB
1981 9 227 GNB Tim Huffman G
1981 12 317 DEN John Hankerd LB
1980 1 25 NWE Vagas Ferguson RB
1980 2 41 NOR Dave Waymer DB
1980 2 51 BAL Tim J. Foley T
1980 4 89 STL Rusty Lisch QB
1980 8 210 SFO Bobby Leopold LB
1980 10 261 KAN Rob Martinovich T
1979 2 43 MIN Dave Huffman G
1979 2 52 NWE Bob Golic NT
1979 3 82 SFO Joe Montana QB
1979 8 197 BAL Steve Heimkreiter LB
1979 9 230 CHI Jerome Heavens RB
1979 9 233 WAS Kris Haines WR
1979 9 244 MIA Jeff Weston T
1979 10 257 CHI Joe Restic DB
1979 10 274 DAL Mike Calhoun DT
1979 12 304 CIN Jim Browner DB
1978 1 7 SFO Ken MacAfee TE
1978 1 8 CIN Ross Browner DE
1978 1 11 DET Luther Bradley DB
1978 2 49 PIT Willie Fry DE
1978 3 79 SFO Ernie Hughes C
1978 5 111 MIA Ted Burgmeier DB
1978 9 249 SFO Steve McDaniels T
1978 10 268 PIT Doug Becker LB
1977 4 1 SEA Al Hunter RB
1976 1 2 SEA Steve Niehaus DT
1976 7 201 NOR Ed Bauer G
1975 1 9 RAM Mike Fanning DT
1975 2 35 SFO Greg Collins LB
1975 3 69 DEN Drew Mahalic LB
1975 5 111 SDG Kevin Nosbusch DT
1975 5 114 SFO Wayne Bullock RB
1975 10 259 OAK Steve Sylvester C
1975 13 320 SDG Pete Demmerle WR
1975 13 329 DEN Eric Penick RB
1975 14 345 SDG Reggie Barnett DB
1975 16 408 BUF Tom Fine TE
1974 2 45 OAK Dave Casper TE
1974 4 86 MIN Mike Townsend DB
1974 9 226 BUF Brian Doherty P
1974 11 265 BAL Tim Rudnick DB
1974 14 353 KAN Frank Pomarico G
1974 15 388 RAM Bob Thomas K
1974 17 427 PHI Cliff Brown RB
1974 17 440 RAM Willie Townsend WR
1973 2 39 ATL Greg Marx DE
1973 6 138 CHI Mike Creaney C
1973 9 224 CIN John Dampeer G
1973 12 296 DEN Jim O'Malley LB
1973 13 320 CHI John Cieszkowski RB
1973 15 367 PHI Ken Schlezes DB
1972 1 1 BUF Walt Patulski DE
1972 1 15 ATL Clarence Ellis DB
1972 1 25 MIA Mike Kadish DT
1972 3 53 BUF Fred Swendsen DE
1972 4 86 GNB Eric Patton LB
1972 5 107 NYG Tom Gatewood TE
1972 7 157 BUF Ralph Stepaniak DB
1972 7 177 NYG Mike Zikas DT
1971 4 99 MIA Joe Theismann QB
1971 5 105 NWE Tim Kelly LB
1971 7 158 NOR Larry DiNardo G
1971 15 382 NYG Jim Wright LB
1971 15 384 RAM Gary Kos G
1970 1 2 GNB Mike McCoy DT
1970 3 57 BUF Jim Reilly G
1970 5 107 BOS Bob Olson LB
1970 5 130 KAN Mike Oriard C
1970 7 158 PHI Terry Brennan T
1969 1 2 ATL George Kunz T
1969 1 10 RAM Jim Seymour WR
1969 2 30 PIT Terry Hanratty QB
1969 4 80 PHI Bob Kuechenberg G
1969 5 119 CHI Jim Winegardner TE
1969 6 141 MIA Ed Tuck G
1969 8 188 BOS Bob Gladieux RB
1969 11 269 WAS Eric Norri DT
1969 12 308 DAL Bob Belden QB
1969 12 309 KAN John Lavin LB
1969 13 325 CHI Tom Quinn DB
1968 1 7 NOR Kevin Hardy DT
1968 3 76 MIN Mike McGill LB
1968 5 116 BOS Jim Smithberger DB
1968 6 157 PHI Dave Martin LB
1968 8 195 NOR Richard Swatland G
1968 8 212 CLE Tom Schoen DB
1968 11 297 RAM John Pergine LB
1968 16 417 PIT Rocky Bleier RB
1967 1 12 NYJ Paul Seiler C
1967 1 15 MIN Alan Page DT
1967 1 23 HOU Tom Regner G
1967 2 46 CLE Larry Conjar RB
1967 2 47 KAN Jim Lynch LB
1967 3 59 DEN George Goeddeke G
1967 3 70 BUF Tom Rhoads DE
1967 16 408 RAM Allen Sack LB
1966 2 16 SDG Nick Rassas DB
1966 2 17 ATL Nick Rassas DB
1966 2 24 DET Nick Eddy RB
1966 4 30 NYJ Phil Sheridan E
1966 3 48 ATL Phil Sheridan E
1966 4 61 CLE Pete Duranko DE
1966 5 65 ATL Bill Wolski FB
1966 10 87 NYJ Bill Wolski FB
1966 8 123 CLE Tom Talaga E
1966 18 157 DEN Tom Talaga T
1966 16 234 PHI Arunas Vasys LB
1965 1 8 MIN Jack Snow WR
1965 2 12 NYJ John Huarte QB
1965 7 54 SDG Jack Snow WR
1965 6 73 CHI Tony Carey HB
1965 6 76 PHI John Huarte QB
1965 8 110 STL John Meyer LB
1965 15 120 BUF John Meyer LB
1965 12 155 NYG Jim Carroll LB
1965 14 185 CHI Dave Pivec TE
1965 14 188 PHI Tom Longo DB
1965 18 251 CLE Dick Arrington G
1964 2 13 BOS Jim Kelly TE
1964 3 23 OAK George Bednar T
1964 2 28 PIT Jim Kelly TE
1964 7 50 KAN John Simon E
1964 4 55 GNB Paul Costa TE
1964 4 56 CHI Frank Budka DB
1964 5 59 WAS Jim Snowden T
1964 10 73 KAN Clay Stephens E
1964 8 104 STL George Bednar G
1964 14 106 KAN Paul Costa TE
1964 15 114 KAN Jim Snowden T
1964 17 131 NYJ Bob Lehman G
1964 13 171 WAS Tom MacDonald B
1964 23 180 BOS Dave Humenik T
1964 17 236 NYG Dave Humenik T
1963 9 70 HOU Ed Burke T
1963 16 124 BUF Ed Hoerster LB
1963 10 137 CHI Ed Hoerster LB
1963 12 168 GNB Daryle Lamonica QB
1963 24 188 BUF Daryle Lamonica QB
1963 16 213 STL John Slafkosky T
1962 2 16 RAM Joe Carollo T
1962 2 26 NYG Bob Bill T
1962 4 31 SDG Bob Bill T
1962 5 64 SFO Mike Lind FB
1962 13 102 BOS Nick Buoniconti LB
1962 9 117 PIT John Powers TE
1962 18 139 DTX Joe Carollo T
1962 19 152 SDG Mike Lind FB
1962 13 175 CHI Joe Perkowski B
1961 2 19 PIT Myron Pottios LB
1961 3 20 OAK Myron Pottios LB
1961 9 71 SDG Bob Scarpitto FL
1961 17 130 BOS Ray Ratkowski HB
1961 10 131 PIT Red Mack TE
1961 23 179 BUF Red Mack TE
1961 20 278 GNB Ray Ratkowski HB
1960 1 2 STL George Izo QB
1960 1 11 SFO Monty Stickles TE
1960 3 27 DET Bob Scholtz C
1960 12 136 WAS Jim Crotty DB
1960 17 200 PHI Mike Graney E
1959 1 6 DET Nick Pietrosante FB
1959 5 49 WAS Bob Wetoska T
1959 5 54 SFO Frank Geremia T
1959 7 76 WAS Don Lawrence DT
1959 10 113 WAS Ron Toth B
1959 10 114 SFO Bronko Nagurski T
1959 18 214 NYG Al Ecuyer G
1959 27 316 WAS Norm Odyniec B
1959 28 332 CHI Bob Williams B
1959 29 343 PIT Dick Loncar T
1959 30 350 PHI Angelo Mosca T
1958 6 66 WAS Dick Lynch DB
1958 9 102 WAS Frank Kuchta LB
1958 10 113 CHI Aubrey Lewis B
1957 1 1 GNB Paul Hornung HB
1957 12 135 GNB Ed Sullivan C
1957 13 148 GNB Jim Morse B
1957 20 232 RAM Byron Beams T
1956 3 28 PHI Don Schaefer FB
1956 9 100 PIT Wayne Edmonds G
1956 13 152 GNB Jim Mense C
1956 14 165 NYG John McMullan G
1956 15 178 CHI Dick Fitzgerald B
1956 19 227 WAS Ray Lemek T
1956 21 244 PIT Gene Martell T
1956 21 253 CLE Gene Kapish E
1956 22 262 WAS George Nicula T
1956 29 347 WAS Pat Bisceglia G
1955 1 4 WAS Ralph Guglielmi QB
1955 1 6 PIT Frank Varrichione T
1955 1 8 NYG Joe Heap HB
1955 2 16 BAL Dick Szymanski C
1955 3 32 CRD Tony Pasquesi DT
1955 4 41 CLE Paul Reynolds B
1955 4 49 CLE Sam Palumbo LB
1955 6 63 CHI Dan Shannon E
1955 24 279 WAS Bob Ready T
1954 1 3 GNB Art Hunter C
1954 1 7 PIT Johnny Lattner HB
1954 1 9 PHI Neil Worden FB
1954 2 20 WAS Jim Schrader C
1954 4 42 CHI Fran Paterra B
1954 4 45 PHI Menil Mavraides G
1954 6 62 CRD Tom McHugh B
1954 10 118 RAM Joe Katchik DT
1954 15 179 SFO Sam Palumbo G
1954 18 211 PIT Don Penza E
1954 27 322 RAM Entee Shine E
1954 28 331 PIT Joe Bush G
1953 15 173 PIT Bob O'Neil G
1953 29 338 BAL Jack Alessandrini G
1953 30 351 CRD Bill Gaudreau B
1952 2 22 SFO Bob Toneff DT
1952 7 74 DTX Johnny Petitbon DB
1952 10 115 WAS Chet Ostrowski DE
1952 12 134 DTX Jim Mutscheller E
1952 13 150 PIT Dave Flood B
1952 16 191 NYG Paul Burns G
1952 28 327 GNB Billy Barrett B
1951 1 2 CHI Bob Williams QB
1951 1 6 CRD Jerry Groom MG
1951 12 139 CRD Jack Landry B
1951 20 235 CRD Fred Wallner LB
1950 1 1 DET Leon Hart E
1950 2 26 CLE Jim Martin G
1950 4 43 GNB Larry Coutre HB
1950 5 55 NYY Mike Swistowicz HB
1950 5 58 WAS Frank Spaniel HB
1950 5 62 CHI Ernie Zalejski DB
1950 7 85 CRD Billy Gay DB
1950 10 125 CRD Walt Grothaus C
1950 11 140 CHI John Helwig LB
1950 18 229 CRD Ray Espenan E
1950 19 239 DET Gus Cifelli T
1950 30 386 PIT Ed Hudak T
1949 1 9 PHI Frank Tripucka QB
1949 1 10 CRD Bill Fischer T
1949 2 12 DET John Panelli LB
1949 3 26 PIT Bill Walsh C
1949 5 51 PHI Terry Brennan B
1949 8 79 CHI Bill Wightkin T
1949 20 193 NYY Frank Gaul T
1949 24 235 NYG Don McAuliffe B
1948 6 43 PIT Joe Gasparella BB
1948 8 63 PHI Martin Wendell G
1948 16 139 BOS George Ratterman QB
1948 17 152 CHI John Fallon G
1948 18 160 RAM Bill O'Connor E
1948 24 223 PIT Floyd Simmons B
1948 25 227 DET Coy McGee B
1948 29 271 GNB John (Pep) Panelli B
1948 31 292 PHI Art Statuto C
1948 32 300 CRD Bill Fischer G
1947 3 16 PIT John Mastrangelo T
1947 6 37 BOS George Sullivan E
1947 13 111 GNB Bob Skoglund DE
1947 15 134 NYG John Fallon T
1947 27 250 GNB Bob Palladino B
1946 1 1 BOS Boley Dancewicz QB
1946 1 4 CHI Johnny Lujack QB
1946 1 5 NYG George Connor T
1946 1 10 RAM Emil Sitko HB
1946 3 16 CRD Elmer Angsman HB
1946 7 52 BOS Ed Mieszkowski T
1946 7 58 DET Pete Berezney T
1946 9 79 WAS Bob Skoglund E
1946 10 90 RAM Joe Signaigo G
1946 13 120 RAM George Strohmeyer C
1946 14 130 RAM Bob Palladino B
1946 15 131 CRD Fred Rovai G
1946 17 160 RAM Gasper Urban G
1946 19 180 RAM Jerry Ford E
1946 20 181 CRD Bill Heywood B
1946 20 182 BOS Frank Ruggerio B
1945 1 6 DET Frank Szymanski C
1945 1 9 PHI John Yonakor E
1945 3 23 WAS John Adams T
1945 4 32 RAM Jack Zilly DE
1945 6 45 CRD Corwin Clatt FB
1945 6 47 BOS Jim Mello DB
1945 6 48 RAM Gerry Cowhig LB
1945 7 55 CRD Ziggy Czarobski T
1945 10 88 CRD Bill Huber E
1945 12 113 BOS Herb Coleman C
1945 15 145 PIT George Connor T
1945 16 159 CHI John Creevey B
1945 22 225 CHI Bob Livingstone B
1945 23 235 RAM Luke Higgins G
1945 30 313 DET Paul Limont E
1944 1 1 BOS Angelo Bertelli QB
1944 1 3 BKN Creighton Miller B
1944 7 58 PHI Vic Kulbitski FB
1944 9 79 DET Matthew Bolger E
1944 10 96 PHI John F. Perko G
1944 12 119 RAM Pat Filley G
1944 19 196 RAM Bob McBride G
1944 20 198 CRD Ray Kuffel E
1944 21 218 RAM John Creevey B
1944 25 253 CRD John McGinnis E
1944 27 275 CRD Bill Earley B
1944 27 283 CHP Russ Ashbaugh B
1944 32 329 RAM Stan Kudlacz C
1943 3 24 CHI Fred Evans HB
1943 5 40 WAS Bob Dove DE
1943 6 50 WAS Wally Ziemba C
1943 7 60 WAS Lou Rymkus T
1943 13 118 GNB Tom Brock C
1943 13 120 WAS Harry Wright G
1943 26 242 PHI Bob Neff T
1943 30 289 CHI Dick Creevy B
1942 13 116 WAS John Kovatch E
1942 21 191 WAS Steve Juzwik HB
1941 11 95 DET Milt Piepul FB
1941 16 148 CHI Bob Osterman C
1941 17 157 GNB Bob Saggau B
1940 14 129 GNB Bill Kerr E
1940 19 173 PIT Thad Harvey T
1940 22 198 WAS Steve Sitko B
1939 6 46 BKN Ed Beinor T
1939 8 69 GNB Paul Kell T
1939 9 71 CRD Earl Brown E
1939 17 152 PIT Ed Longhi C
1939 19 176 CHI Ed Simonich B
1939 21 194 GNB Willard Hofer B
1939 21 195 NYG Mario Tonelli FB
1938 5 37 GNB Chuck Sweeney E
1938 10 84 PIT Pat McCarty C
1938 12 104 PIT Joe Kuharich G
1936 1 3 PIT Bill Shakespeare B
1936 3 26 DET Andy Pilney B
1936 7 57 PIT Marty Peters E
1936 7 61 GNB Wally Fromhart B
1936 8 65 BOS Wayne Millner E ]]> rainman67ko https://www.sportscardforum.com/entries/888-Notre-Dame-Football-wants https://www.sportscardforum.com/entries/488-Hey-Albert-got-a-minute-How-a-ten-minute-delay-of-game-changed-my-opinion-of-Pujols Sat, 08 Aug 2009 06:57:52 GMT *Hey Albert, got a minute? How a ten minute delay of game changed my opinion of Pujols* ... Hey Albert, got a minute? How a ten minute delay of game changed my opinion of Pujols
Writing team trial 3/5

Hey Albert, got a minute? - How a ten minute delay of game changed my opinion of Pujols.

By Kevin O’Connor aka koconnor67
8/7/09

The dog days of summer are upon us. Major League Baseball has passed its notional half way point, with the All Star game and the trade deadline behind it, and is squarely focused on the grind of August games with few teams competing for divisional supremacy or a wild card position and a shot to play in October. The race is on for some teams. For others, like the Pittsburgh Pirates, each game provides these "also ran's" a chance to find their team identity, and attempt to define their season. There is no real race for position within the division. These games allow the rookies and newly acquired young "Buc's" a chance to showcase their talents and abilities, develop their skills at the major league level, and provide some baseball highs and lows for fans as the players strive to cement themselves as starters for the following season. I watch with hopeful anticipation as Garret Jones, Andrew McCutchen, Lastings Milledge, and others play with the kind of spirit and competitive drive expected of young ballplayers who want to succeed at the Big League level.

As I watch these August games, win or lose, I am generally pleased with the individual efforts, and occasionally surprised with the exceptional 4-6-3 double play, or some clutch hitting to knock in some runs, but not always. Tonight I watched as the NL Central leading Cardinals were tied at 4 runs a piece in the bottom of the 7th inning, with a young Pirates team that needs to learn how to put together a win. Garrett Jones was at the plate with 1 out and the count at 1-1. While I hoped he would put the ball in play, and move the runners at first and second, I was struck by something altogether different.

Jones fouled the next pitch sharply up the first base line and out of play. A fan leapt from his first row seat, leaned over the barricade in an attempt to shag the errant ball, and his momentum carried him like a pendulum slamming him face first onto the dirt surface of the track that surrounds the field in foul territory. As the middle aged man struggled to gain his feet, wearing his St. Louis red t-shirt, he stumbled and was caught by Albert Pujols. The power hitting first baseman was the first responder to the scene and helped the man to carefully lay back down as more help arrived. One could see the man was disoriented, the dirt of the track mixing with blood on his forehead now trickling down his nose amplified an already disconcerting sight, and the charge for his well being was being lead and managed by Pujols. Immediately Pujols had the man lie down to stabilize his back and neckline as trainers from both teams began to examine him. Within minutes the crowd grew from one, to fifty, as the EMT’s arrived and began to work on the fan turned accident victim. Even Pirates President Frank Coonely came down to see if the man was alright. At first it seemed the victim may have been struck by the ball but replays clearly showed the ferocity with which his forehead buried itself into the dirt and the stress transferred to his neck. The triage continued for several minutes and Albert Pujols never left his position, at the top of the victims head, continuing to immobilize his neck.

I have never been a Pujols fan. It’s far too easy to dislike him when you see him take apart your team several times a year. I respect his talent but look for reasons not to root for his success on the field. He’s not a Pirate, not a Yankee, and not someone I follow. I figured he was another Barry Bonds or Manny Ramirez, to be noticed but not revered, at least not by me. I’m disinterested with the vanity and elitism displayed by some of the superstars of this modern era. Tonight I saw something of Albert Pujols character that I could identify with and found a new respect for him as a human being. The leadership and compassion Pujols displayed during these urgent moments changed my opinion of him.

The EMT’s were nearly finished with their work. The victim was placed on a stretcher. Albert Pujols could stop being the first responder and go back to being the first baseman. Almost ten minutes had elapsed since the last pitch. During this time the PNC Park security officers brought the victims son onto the field. He appeared to be in his mid twenties, dressed in Cardinal red, and also concerned for his father. One look at his face and it was obvious this young man had Downs Syndrome. I was immediately concerned for his well being while not knowing his fathers condition or the potential extent of the injury. Again Albert Pujols impressed me with his genuine consideration by spending a few moments with the victims’ son. Pujols appeared to provide a reassuring word as he touched the sons arm and smiled. This lasted for a long moment until the John Deere cart and the medical team drove off the field, with the man and his son, to the applause of the fans. The man gave the obligatory thumbs up as his stretcher rolled along the base line.

When play resumed I couldn’t help but wonder about Albert Pujols. I wanted to know more about him as a person. In searching out some basic information on Pujols I found, that together with his wife Deidre, he founded the Pujols Family Foundation who’s mission is to benefit people with Downs Syndrome here in the States and help impoverished children in his native Dominican Republic. What a wonderful coincidence.

Garrett Jones proceeded to hit a grounder up the line that Pujols fielded for the second out. Ryan Doumit popped up to the third baseman DeRosa for the final out of the inning. The Cardinals took advantage of an infield error and scored a few runs putting the game out of reach for the home team. Word followed that the victim of the 7th inning foul ball was in stable condition at Allegheny General Hospital.

The Bucco's lost their fifth straight but all I could think about was how Albert Pujols aided that stranger, that fan, and the benevolence he displayed in that moment towards the victims son. I’ve identified some Albert Pujols cards on eBay. I’ll be following his career a little closer and getting something to add to my collection. He doesn’t ever have to hit another home run and I’ll be rooting for Albert Pujols for what he did outside of the lines. ]]> rainman67ko https://www.sportscardforum.com/entries/488-Hey-Albert-got-a-minute-How-a-ten-minute-delay-of-game-changed-my-opinion-of-Pujols https://www.sportscardforum.com/entries/449-My-Dad-a-ball-some-snow-and-Joe-Torre Wed, 08 Jul 2009 04:18:19 GMT By Kevin O’Connor aka koconnor67 7-7-2009 *_My Dad, a ball, some snow, and Joe Torre _* This is the kind of story that subtly illuminates some of the reasons behind our persona and... By Kevin O’Connor aka koconnor67
7-7-2009

My Dad, a ball, some snow, and Joe Torre

This is the kind of story that subtly illuminates some of the reasons behind our persona and our make up. It hints to how we become who we are and describes why our hero’s and champions earn their place in our hearts and minds, all the while performing consistent, ordinary, and average, only to be revered as extraordinary. I believe everyone has a story like this if they slow down long enough to experience it.

Christmas was almost 7 months ago yet I am reminded of a phone call I received from my dad right before the holiday. My dad is 63 years old. He has retired from the trades a couple of years back, has quit smoking (finally), and keeps a very part time job delivering vehicles for a large dealership in New Jersey. My dad’s name is Roy, or Roy Boy, or Leroy, but just don’t call him Francis or he’ll want to fight! That’s his little joke, or one of them, that sticks in my head whenever I tell someone his name. Roy is a baseball fan from another era. From a time before steroids, before multi million dollar contracts, and before his beloved Mets ever won anything more than his unlimited devotion, Roy is a fan of the game.

Roy took me to my first game back in 1976. It was a nice, warm, mid September evening at Shea Stadium and the Pirates were in town. We sat up kind of high and had a great view of the field. I remember Dave Kingman jacking a huge home run that seemed to climb forever. I was 9 years old. Roy taught me a few things since then about the game. He taught me how to score a play by the numbers, how to pull the ball, how to keep a hot grounder in front of me, and most importantly he taught me how to watch the game. I can go to any ball park, at almost any level of competition, and regardless of the teams I can enjoy a baseball game.

My dad gave me these things and I, in turn, have tried to pass them on to my 5 sons. I have coached the 4 older boys throughout little league, into there early teens, and will do the same with my youngest when he is ready. In my garage there is almost enough equipment to outfit an entire team short of catcher’s kneepads and a chest protector. I have taken them to games and attempted to share the experience in the same way Roy had done with me.

Remarkably I am not a Mets fan. I fell in love with Reggie Jackson and the ’77 Yankee’s and rekindled the affair when Joe Torre was named the Yankee’s Skipper in ’96. This makes for some good natured ribbing between us. Roy will call to tease me about a bad losing streak, or the Red Sox record, or the Yankee payroll, but in the end we talk about the game. My dad love’s the game. When he visits us here in Pittsburgh we schedule time to get to PNC Park to see the Pirates and whomever they are facing. Roy love’s the National League’s small ball, or little ball. He understands the squeeze, the hit and run, when to bunt, and when to bring the infield in. I’ll never forget watching the ’86 World Series with my dad when his Mets strung together a rally to beat the Red Sox in Game 6 and went on to win the Championship.

On a cold and snowy Saturday morning, just before Christmas ’08, Roy was hired to deliver a Luxury SUV to a high profile client in Southern New York. Initially he was reticent to drive the distance with the snow falling, but the dealer’s agent said he had called on Roy because he knew he could count on him, and it was for an important client. That client turned out to be Joe Torre. Through the snow Roy drove, to the address he was given, arriving just in time to help the Torre’s with their groceries. He was then invited in for a cup of coffee. Over refreshments they spoke of baseball- the game, the business, and its personalities. Joe was extremely courteous and genuine. After a short while Roy was looking to head for home. Joe asked him to wait a minute and brought out some balls to sign for some of the other guy’s back at the dealership. When Joe was done he turned to my dad and asked “Now what’s your name?” Roy replied that he was a Mets fan and appreciated it but quickly offered “My kid’s a big Yankee fan. Make it out to him would‘ya?”

Last month I drove the 6 hours to New Jersey and spent a few days with my dad. We watched a ball game on T.V., ate cheese steak sandwiches, kicked around a flea market, and spent some quality time together. When my dad handed me the “Torre ball” I couldn’t believe it. He had told me the story over the phone several months before but now it was in my hand. I realized I held something that would forever link my hero’s and champions together in one dramatic yet inanimate orb. Roy beamed as he read out the inscription in our familiar “Jersey” dialect - “Kevin – a true Yankee – Joe Torre” I was thrilled as he laughed. Joe Torre is a champion I admire. Roy, my dad, is my hero.

]]> rainman67ko https://www.sportscardforum.com/entries/449-My-Dad-a-ball-some-snow-and-Joe-Torre https://www.sportscardforum.com/entries/426-Pittsburgh-XXXI-Spring-Classic-National-Sports-Card-amp-Memorabilia-Show-5-17-09 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 04:46:35 GMT Pittsburgh XXXI Spring Classic National Sports Card & Memorabilia Show 5/17/09
I went to a show today at Robert Morris University outside of Pittsburgh. I was not planning to attend but at the last minute I saw the opportunity to get out of the house, so I grabbed some stuff, and made my way out to see what was there. I picked up a few things for my PC (see scans). Over all the show looked like it had a good turn out and all the dealers where in a good mood.

I got in line for Duffy Dyer signing for $10 plus the ROMLB for $12. (see scan) Duffy Dyer was my favorite player when I was a little kid. My dad is a huge Met's fan. We named our Irish Setter Duffy. The first game I went to in 1976 was the Met's vs. Pirates at Shea Stadium and Duffy Dyer was now catching for the Pirates. He wasn’t the every day catcher and not an all star but it was great to meet him and talk with him a little bit.

I was able to pick up a couple of things for my hockey PC - I bought the 84-85 OPC #67 Steve Yzerman RC for $50 down from the $80 asking price ($100 BV). I needed this card for my set and was impressed with the overall condition compared to what I've seen on eBay or what is generally available with OPC of that era. The vintage Penguins cards I picked up where just plain cheap. I put together the Pens, the Brodeur RC, the mini pennant, the 1998 U.S.A. Olympic puck, and the 1977 OPC Pens logo for $17. The Bill Guerin BAP Auto and the 1971-72 Topps #50 Bobby Hull I paid $23 for both. I also got a box of 2008-09 UD Series 1 for $50. I will probably break that box after the game Monday or Tuesday. Or tonight if I can't sleep ha ha!

Showing up for the last few hours of a show can be really great. The dealers have either made out really well, or not, but either way they are eager to deal and pretty open to negotiating. I was able to trade if I wanted and also sold a nice 200+ card lot of VG-EX 1960 Topps baseball that included High numbers and listed cards to a dealer that had a need for them in his inventory. In years past I used to always go to shows on the first night and it seemed as if the dealers where a little uptight because they had lots of inventory, not much cash, and where anxious as to what sort of turnout the show would receive. First night is great if you’re buying wax or looking for something super rare.

I saw some great memorabilia that you don’t see every local show like these big 24"x36" box matted Sports Illustrated covers of the Steelers, thousands of auto baseballs and photos, tons of cool oddball items, programs, warehouse wax dealers, and regional/national dealers with some real quality stuff. I met some local people and made some contacts for buying, selling, and trading. Well worth the trip. The show is billed as a National show but I would say it was pretty much a regional.

After only 2 hours I was back in time to catch the second period on TV and get back to work on the "Honey Do" list. Looking forward to the National but that will be a game time decision too.

Thanks – Kevin


Original posts here -
http://www.sportscardforum.com/showt...05#post5661605
http://www.sportscardforum.com/showthread.php?t=797573 ]]> rainman67ko https://www.sportscardforum.com/entries/426-Pittsburgh-XXXI-Spring-Classic-National-Sports-Card-amp-Memorabilia-Show-5-17-09 https://www.sportscardforum.com/entries/425-Congrats-Pens-But-Crosby-Why-do-you-have-the-quot-C-quot Mon, 15 Jun 2009 03:53:07 GMT (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P9I41yMiOPQ) ...But...]]> Like the title says "Congrats Pens...but..."

A Fans response to the criticism of Crosby's late handshake spawned by Drapers comment.

">

...But it was 30 seconds. People are saying he has no class over 30 seconds? 20 seconds after Draper pulled out of the line Crosby got there. And that can be seen on the video.

...But Draper(A) led the way to the locker room after waiting only 10 seconds. Crosby got there about 20 seconds later and shook hands with Franzen and Zetterberg.

...But did anyone notice the Con Smythe was announced as Malkin was still in the line?

...But Mike Babcock clearly said to Sidney Crosby "...great leadership by you".

...But the Pens battled back from 10th place in February to 4th place for the playoffs on the final day of the regular season taking the position lost by the Flyers.

...But the Pens beat a healthy Flyers team in 6 on the road. The turning point in that series could be Talbots fight with Carcillo.

...But the Pens beat the "O-Show" on the road in 7. The Crosby and Ovechkin hat tricks in one night where fantastic! I wonder if Mr. Semin is still wondering what's so special now that he's had a few weeks off to think about it.

...But the Pens beat Carolina on the road to end a 4 game sweep and punch their ticket for the final. Carolina was on a roll and had pulled 2 upsets to get to the conference finals.

...But the Pens fought to get back to the finals against the team that beat them convincingly the year before in the cup finals. The Ominous and Powerful Detroit Red Wings.

...But the Pens came from a 0-2 game deficit to tie the series 2-2.

...But the Pens recovered from a horrible undisciplined game 5 to win game 6 and force the game 7.

...But the Pens took it from Detroit on their ice in their house.

...But we'll have the Stanley Cup Victory Parade downtown Monday.

...But we'll have all summer with the Stanley Cup.

...But Sidney Crosby will always be despised by someone. Lemieux and Gretzky where not always loved by all either. A good leader does not let the critics direct his next move. A good leader will continue to prepare for whatever is next. Crosby is growing into a good leader.

...But thanks for nothing to everyone bashing Crosby and blowing this ridiculous happenstance into Don Cherry like proportions of critical minutia and a dead end sideshow. There is no story here. Just bitterness and jealousy.

Thanks to everyone who gave unconditional congratulations to the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Pens Fans.

...But to the haters and bashers - Kiss my ...but.

Original post in this thread - http://www.sportscardforum.com/showthread.php?t=820242 ]]> rainman67ko https://www.sportscardforum.com/entries/425-Congrats-Pens-But-Crosby-Why-do-you-have-the-quot-C-quot https://www.sportscardforum.com/entries/424-2009-09-Stanley-Cup-Final-Series-Penguins-Highs-and-Lows Sat, 13 Jun 2009 14:37:02 GMT *Stanley Cup Final Series* What an incredible series it has been, appropriately capping off a tremendous playoff season... Stanley Cup Final Series
What an incredible series it has been, appropriately capping off a tremendous playoff season for the NHL. Ratings records, new fans exposed to the game, and great story lines help make this culmination special.

I wondered after the Chicago/Detroit series if Detroit was running on fumes entering the final. They proved that to be at least questionable by winning the first to games of the series at home. Pittsburgh closed out every series on the road this post season. That is something that defies the odds and defines the character of this Penguins team.

Series High - During game 4 Jordan Staal got a breakaway and scored a shorthanded goal halfway through the 2nd period. At this time I thought "This could be the definitive momentum shifting play of the series if the Pens win." This was nearly the half way point through a 7 game series. Now that they have won, I still think that play was huge.

Series Low - Stinking up the Joe in game 5 with the Pens undisciplined play was the all time low of the series for me.

What plays where your highs and lows of the series?

Some comments on the rich storyline for this final series-

Detroit Red Wings- Congratulations to the Red Wings on another incredible season and for playing their hearts out in this final series. The Red Wings set the example for the rest of the league from drafting to organization to execution. They are a "Best in Class" organization with a real classy coach in Mike Babcock. You may have heard what Babcock said to Sidney Crosby in the handshake line - "Great leadership by you".

Sidney Crosby - If your a Crosby hater, you have your reasons, but as a hockey fan you have to respect his play this playoff season and his leadership regardless of the numbers he was or was not able to put up this series. He faces adversity every game with the opposing teams keying on him, fans on the road chanting "Crosby sucks!", and with a camera or microphone in his face every day he has handled himself well. As a young player and a young man he may not always appeal to all as the NHL continues to limelight him. Perhaps he has a few gaffs along the way (when complaining about Ovechkin's hat trick raining a plethora of hats on the ice and asking the refs to restart the game comes to mind), but he will grow and mature, and no one can honestly question his character and his love for the game. He's 21. The youngest captain to hoist the cup and you can't take that away. Crosby always always gives credit to the team and organization. As a leader in my own professional and military life I know this is attribute to be among the best tools of effective leadership.

Marion Hossa- Deserved of the boo's in Pittsburgh? I think so. But truly sweet as a Pens fan to see him not get the cup. He made a self centered decision leaving Pittsburgh. Some will say it was former Coach Therrien that was the reason he would not stay and that may be true but as these teams have shown in recent years, and in these playoffs, it takes an entire team effort to achieve the goal of a Stanley Cup Champion team. Perhaps he returns to Slovakia, contemplates his next move, and either plays in Europe or in the NHL. I dont think there are any short cuts in the quest for the cup. Humbly, Marion Hossa may be a living example of this.

Bill Guerin - What a great story he is. One of my all time favorites and a well respected player in the league. At the trade deadline he was probably not thinking he would be hoisting the cup in a few months but rather where to vacation this spring. Guerin has a lot to give and Pittsburgh will do well to sign him for next year.

I can't wait for the Stanley Cup Parade in downtown Pittsburgh. It will be awesome. My kid's and I will remember this forever.

-Kevin ]]> rainman67ko https://www.sportscardforum.com/entries/424-2009-09-Stanley-Cup-Final-Series-Penguins-Highs-and-Lows