On the Tunney Side of the Street - #192 - September 1, 2008
“If we didn’t have great character, we would not have been able to beat another team that does,” said U.S. Olympic Basketball Coach Mike Krzyzewski (http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080827/ap_on_sp_co_ne/bkc_coach_k_back_from_beijing). Great character? Are we talking about the U.S. Pro Basketball players (most of them anyway) who lost the “Gold” in Athens in 2004 and the “Dream Team” who did so poorly in Barcelona in 2000?
With many of those “Dream Team” players on the 2008 U.S. Olympic Basketball team playing in China, how in the world did CHARACTER get involved? Let me suggest the name “Coach K.” Yes, the Duke University Basketball Coach (http://www.coachk.com/). You mean a college coach pulled this T.E.A.M. of professional players together by infusing character into their lineup? Precisely!
Coach K took Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Jason Kidd and the other NBA stars and redeemed U.S. Olympic Basketball to Gold status. Thus the sobriquet - Redeem T.E.A.M (http://voices.washingtonpost.com/olympics/2008/08/mens_basketball_redeem_team_re.html). Team Captain Jason Kidd, of the Dallas Mavericks (http://www.jasonkidd.com/), said it best, “It’s all about each other.” In fact, as the Redeem Team players stood on the podium with Gold medals hanging from each one’s neck, and our national anthem being played, Captain Kidd reminded them to “put your hand over your heart, because in the emotion of the ceremony, it’s easy to forget about our country and what it means.”
What a turnaround. Critics talk about the very rich NBA players being selfish, arrogant and the like. What we saw in Beijing was a team becoming a united force to overcome adversity, as it did in the Gold game against Spain (a team with character), who came close to an upset. Further, those NBA All-Stars went throughout the Olympic Village signing autographs ad nauseam, attending Women’s Basketball games, Swimming, Soccer, Beach Volleyball, Track and Field and other events in support of their fellow athletes.
Since these players were many of the same NBA All-Stars who embarrassed the U.S.A. in Barcelona and Athens, the turnaround MUST be attributed to Coach K and his staff who brought character and respect - traits that every athlete must possess - to each player.
Speaking of respect, overlooked appreciation is due for Olympian Decathlete Bryan Clay. While all remember his noteworthy predecessors - Bob Mathias, Rafer Johnson, Bruce Jenner -to name just a few, Clay, who won the Decathlon Silver in 2004, led after EVERY event in 2008. The Decathlon is a grueling competition of 10 track and field events contested in just 2 days. This event recognizes the best of athleticism. Well done, Bryan! (http://www.bryanclay.com/clay/index)
Will you keep character and respect first and foremost in everything you do?
For more information about Jim Tunney, please visit his website:
www.JimTunney.com, or if you would like to respond to this message,
please send your email to Jim@JimTunney.com
You can also visit Jim’s blog at: http://jimtunney.blogspot.com
A new book, “The Encore Effect,” by author/speaker Mark Sanborn, now available
For more information, visit: www.MarkSanborn.com/moreencores
Friday, August 29, 2008
Monday, August 25, 2008
On The Tunney Side of the Street #191, August 25, 2008 (www.JimTunney.com)
After Further Review ... A potpourri of observations from the 2008 Olympic Games:
The Government of China pulled out all the 'stops' to impress the television world of how important the Olympic Games meant to them. I'm not sure it meant that much to the "man on the street," but the country has to be proud, especially with all the Gold medals won by the Chinese athletes(http://en.beijing2008.cn/).
Michael Phelps' 8 Gold medals did himself, his mother Debbie, and the U.S.A. proud as well (http://www.michaelphelps.com/)! I hope young athletes appreciated the dedication and commitment of Phelps. When a competitor openly announces goals, then competes at the highest level to achieve them, the remarkableness of that feat can only be applauded. Further, Phelps' humility during the plethora of interviews that followed demonstrated his appreciation of his teammates, as well as respect for his competitors. One has to admire that.
However, in events that called for subjective judgment, politics always seem to "pop up." Questionable subjective judgment is not new, but certainly was evident in Women's Gymnastics, especially the Uneven Bars, where China's He Kexin and Nastia Liukin tied (the same score of 16.727) for the top mark, yet Kexin received the Gold and Liukin the Silver on the Olympic "tie-breaker system." Why not both getting Gold medals? Such was the case in the 1988 Olympics when Valeri Liukin, Nastia's father, tied for first in the Men's Horizontal Bar with both competitors being awarded Gold medals. The judges didn't knock Nastia out of the Gold - the tie-breaker system did (http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/hotstories/5952127.html). What if Milorad Cavic and Phelps simultaneously touched the timing pads in the 100 meter 'fly'? Wouldn't have both been awarded Gold medals?
Usain Bolt's (http://www.nbcolympics.com/athletes/athlete=271/bio/) pounding of his chest before crossing the finish line in his 100 meter heat in track might have drawn a 15-yard penalty in the NFL for taunting. It's no disgrace to get beat by someone of Bolt's talent, but his tasteless behavior is discomforting to his competitors, as well as the audience.
It was a sad day when the International Olympic Committee (http://www.olympic.org/uk/index_uk.asp)decided to eliminate Women's Softball and Men's Baseball. Was it because of the USA's dominance? If so, politics, again, rears its ugly head. At one time USA's Men's Basketball was dominant, even embarrassing, to other countries. Since we sent our U.S. coaches to other countries, the competition has (somewhat) leveled itself out.
Olympic competition was designed to have athlete compete against athlete or T.E.A.M. against T.E.A.M. The counting of medals by countries only exacerbates the "I'm better than you attitude" between nations that are already at odds. (http://results.beijing2008.cn/WRM/ENG/INF/GL/95A/GL0000000.shtml)
Will you look at Olympic competition as an individual vs. individual basis?
For more information about Jim Tunney, please visit his website:www.JimTunney.com, or if you would like to respond to this message, please send your email to Jim@JimTunney.comYou can also visit Jim's blog at: http://jimtunney.blogspot.comA new book "The Encore Effect" by Mark Sanborn, speaker/authorVisit www.MarkSanborn.com/moreencores for more information.
The Government of China pulled out all the 'stops' to impress the television world of how important the Olympic Games meant to them. I'm not sure it meant that much to the "man on the street," but the country has to be proud, especially with all the Gold medals won by the Chinese athletes(http://en.beijing2008.cn/).
Michael Phelps' 8 Gold medals did himself, his mother Debbie, and the U.S.A. proud as well (http://www.michaelphelps.com/)! I hope young athletes appreciated the dedication and commitment of Phelps. When a competitor openly announces goals, then competes at the highest level to achieve them, the remarkableness of that feat can only be applauded. Further, Phelps' humility during the plethora of interviews that followed demonstrated his appreciation of his teammates, as well as respect for his competitors. One has to admire that.
However, in events that called for subjective judgment, politics always seem to "pop up." Questionable subjective judgment is not new, but certainly was evident in Women's Gymnastics, especially the Uneven Bars, where China's He Kexin and Nastia Liukin tied (the same score of 16.727) for the top mark, yet Kexin received the Gold and Liukin the Silver on the Olympic "tie-breaker system." Why not both getting Gold medals? Such was the case in the 1988 Olympics when Valeri Liukin, Nastia's father, tied for first in the Men's Horizontal Bar with both competitors being awarded Gold medals. The judges didn't knock Nastia out of the Gold - the tie-breaker system did (http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/hotstories/5952127.html). What if Milorad Cavic and Phelps simultaneously touched the timing pads in the 100 meter 'fly'? Wouldn't have both been awarded Gold medals?
Usain Bolt's (http://www.nbcolympics.com/athletes/athlete=271/bio/) pounding of his chest before crossing the finish line in his 100 meter heat in track might have drawn a 15-yard penalty in the NFL for taunting. It's no disgrace to get beat by someone of Bolt's talent, but his tasteless behavior is discomforting to his competitors, as well as the audience.
It was a sad day when the International Olympic Committee (http://www.olympic.org/uk/index_uk.asp)decided to eliminate Women's Softball and Men's Baseball. Was it because of the USA's dominance? If so, politics, again, rears its ugly head. At one time USA's Men's Basketball was dominant, even embarrassing, to other countries. Since we sent our U.S. coaches to other countries, the competition has (somewhat) leveled itself out.
Olympic competition was designed to have athlete compete against athlete or T.E.A.M. against T.E.A.M. The counting of medals by countries only exacerbates the "I'm better than you attitude" between nations that are already at odds. (http://results.beijing2008.cn/WRM/ENG/INF/GL/95A/GL0000000.shtml)
Will you look at Olympic competition as an individual vs. individual basis?
For more information about Jim Tunney, please visit his website:www.JimTunney.com, or if you would like to respond to this message, please send your email to Jim@JimTunney.comYou can also visit Jim's blog at: http://jimtunney.blogspot.comA new book "The Encore Effect" by Mark Sanborn, speaker/authorVisit www.MarkSanborn.com/moreencores for more information.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
On The Tunney Side of the Street #190, August 18, 2008 (www.JimTunney.com)
On the Tunney Side of the Street #190, August 18, 2008 http://www.jimtunney.com
After Further Review … “’Cause I’m the hall monitor,” said 9-year old Lin Hao, the Chinese schoolboy who marched in the 2008 Opening Ceremonies of the 29th Olympic Games in Beijing, as the co-leader with China’s Flag Bearer, 7”6’ Yao Ming. Yao Ming, of course, you know as the Houston Rockets NBA star, who was playing in the Olympic Games for his native country China.
Lin Hao, perhaps, is a name you don’t know – yet. When the earthquake that hit Chengdu’s Sichuan Province, China, on May 12, 2008, killing 69,000+ people, Lin Hao was among those buried beneath the rubble, yet survived. Lin Hao had pulled a classmate out of the rubble, then ran back in to rescue another, when he was caught in the tumbling walls. Alive when the rescuers got to him, Lin Hao was asked “Why did you go back into that building that was crumbling?” Here is 9-year old Lin Hao’s response: “’CAUSE I’M THE HALL MONITOR!” You may call it responsibility, or leadership or determination. Whatever you call it, please put “HERO” next to Lin Hao’s name! Extraordinary!
There is no question that the spectacular opening of these 29th Olympic Games was the finest I have ever witnessed (http://en.beijing2008.cn/). The precision and splendor of that opening was exceeded only by the people who directed and performed in it. It was easy to be convinced that the light show, the drumming sequence and especially the ‘cube’ happening was controlled solely by electronics. I was delightfully surprised when the performers beneath those cubes popped their heads up at the conclusion. Extraordinary!
During an NBC interview with Zhang Yimou, (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0955443/) who directed the opening ceremonies, Yimou said “We (meaning every ‘cube’ performer) worked for 4 months - 8 hours a day - and we never got it perfect – until that opening night performance.” Determination and a “never-give-up” attitude, coupled with TEAMWORK, gave the world China’s extraordinary best.
Some critics (you don’t see many statues erected in honor of critics) knocked the Chinese performers as “sterile” and lacking passion (I guess they missed the fact that there are 1.3 billion Chinese!). I disagree. When you witness perfection, it may appear “sterile” and “passionless,” but what is often missed is the extraordinary effort to achieve perfection. Although understandable, not everyone needs to display the exuberance of a Michael Phelps, as shown when his T.E.A.M. won the 4x100 Relay, to proclaim their extraordinary feat. Extraordinary performances given by ordinary people giving extra effort to perform the extraordinary!
Will you give your extra effort to every task you have in order to achieve the extraordinary?
For more information about Jim Tunney or to request his speaking services, please visit http://www.jimtunney.com
After Further Review … “’Cause I’m the hall monitor,” said 9-year old Lin Hao, the Chinese schoolboy who marched in the 2008 Opening Ceremonies of the 29th Olympic Games in Beijing, as the co-leader with China’s Flag Bearer, 7”6’ Yao Ming. Yao Ming, of course, you know as the Houston Rockets NBA star, who was playing in the Olympic Games for his native country China.
Lin Hao, perhaps, is a name you don’t know – yet. When the earthquake that hit Chengdu’s Sichuan Province, China, on May 12, 2008, killing 69,000+ people, Lin Hao was among those buried beneath the rubble, yet survived. Lin Hao had pulled a classmate out of the rubble, then ran back in to rescue another, when he was caught in the tumbling walls. Alive when the rescuers got to him, Lin Hao was asked “Why did you go back into that building that was crumbling?” Here is 9-year old Lin Hao’s response: “’CAUSE I’M THE HALL MONITOR!” You may call it responsibility, or leadership or determination. Whatever you call it, please put “HERO” next to Lin Hao’s name! Extraordinary!
There is no question that the spectacular opening of these 29th Olympic Games was the finest I have ever witnessed (http://en.beijing2008.cn/). The precision and splendor of that opening was exceeded only by the people who directed and performed in it. It was easy to be convinced that the light show, the drumming sequence and especially the ‘cube’ happening was controlled solely by electronics. I was delightfully surprised when the performers beneath those cubes popped their heads up at the conclusion. Extraordinary!
During an NBC interview with Zhang Yimou, (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0955443/) who directed the opening ceremonies, Yimou said “We (meaning every ‘cube’ performer) worked for 4 months - 8 hours a day - and we never got it perfect – until that opening night performance.” Determination and a “never-give-up” attitude, coupled with TEAMWORK, gave the world China’s extraordinary best.
Some critics (you don’t see many statues erected in honor of critics) knocked the Chinese performers as “sterile” and lacking passion (I guess they missed the fact that there are 1.3 billion Chinese!). I disagree. When you witness perfection, it may appear “sterile” and “passionless,” but what is often missed is the extraordinary effort to achieve perfection. Although understandable, not everyone needs to display the exuberance of a Michael Phelps, as shown when his T.E.A.M. won the 4x100 Relay, to proclaim their extraordinary feat. Extraordinary performances given by ordinary people giving extra effort to perform the extraordinary!
Will you give your extra effort to every task you have in order to achieve the extraordinary?
For more information about Jim Tunney or to request his speaking services, please visit http://www.jimtunney.com
Saturday, August 16, 2008
On The Tunney Side of the Street #190, August 18, 2008 (www.JimTunney.com)
On the Tunney Side of the Street #190, August 18, 2008 http://www.jimtunney.com/
After Further Review … “’Cause I’m the hall monitor,” said 9-year old Lin Hao, the Chinese schoolboy who marched in the 2008 Opening Ceremonies of the 29th Olympic Games in Beijing, as the co-leader with China’s Flag Bearer, 7”6’ Yao Ming. Yao Ming, of course, you know as the Houston Rockets NBA star, who was playing in the Olympic Games for his native country China.
Lin Hao, perhaps, is a name you don’t know – yet. When the earthquake that hit Chengdu’s Sichuan Province, China, on May 12, 2008, killing 69,000+ people, Lin Hao was among those buried beneath the rubble, yet survived. Lin Hao had pulled a classmate out of the rubble, then ran back in to rescue another, when he was caught in the tumbling walls. Alive when the rescuers got to him, Lin Hao was asked “Why did you go back into that building that was crumbling?” Here is 9-year old Lin Hao’s response: “’CAUSE I’M THE HALL MONITOR!” You may call it responsibility, or leadership or determination. Whatever you call it, please put “HERO” next to Lin Hao’s name! Extraordinary!
There is no question that the spectacular opening of these 29th Olympic Games was the finest I have ever witnessed (http://en.beijing2008.cn/). The precision and splendor of that opening was exceeded only by the people who directed and performed in it. It was easy to be convinced that the light show, the drumming sequence and especially the ‘cube’ happening was controlled solely by electronics. I was delightfully surprised when the performers beneath those cubes popped their heads up at the conclusion. Extraordinary!
During an NBC interview with Zhang Yimou, (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0955443/) who directed the opening ceremonies, Yimou said “We (meaning every ‘cube’ performer) worked for 4 months - 8 hours a day - and we never got it perfect – until that opening night performance.” Determination and a “never-give-up” attitude, coupled with TEAMWORK, gave the world China’s extraordinary best.
Some critics (you don’t see many statues erected in honor of critics) knocked the Chinese performers as “sterile” and lacking passion (I guess they missed the fact that there are 1.3 billion Chinese!). I disagree. When you witness perfection, it may appear “sterile” and “passionless,” but what is often missed is the extraordinary effort to achieve perfection. Although understandable, not everyone needs to display the exuberance of a Michael Phelps, as shown when his T.E.A.M. won the 4x100 Relay, to proclaim their extraordinary feat. Extraordinary performances given by ordinary people giving extra effort to perform the extraordinary!
Will you give your extra effort to every task you have in order to achieve the extraordinary?
For more information about Jim Tunney or to request his speaking services, please visit http://www.jimtunney.com/
After Further Review … “’Cause I’m the hall monitor,” said 9-year old Lin Hao, the Chinese schoolboy who marched in the 2008 Opening Ceremonies of the 29th Olympic Games in Beijing, as the co-leader with China’s Flag Bearer, 7”6’ Yao Ming. Yao Ming, of course, you know as the Houston Rockets NBA star, who was playing in the Olympic Games for his native country China.
Lin Hao, perhaps, is a name you don’t know – yet. When the earthquake that hit Chengdu’s Sichuan Province, China, on May 12, 2008, killing 69,000+ people, Lin Hao was among those buried beneath the rubble, yet survived. Lin Hao had pulled a classmate out of the rubble, then ran back in to rescue another, when he was caught in the tumbling walls. Alive when the rescuers got to him, Lin Hao was asked “Why did you go back into that building that was crumbling?” Here is 9-year old Lin Hao’s response: “’CAUSE I’M THE HALL MONITOR!” You may call it responsibility, or leadership or determination. Whatever you call it, please put “HERO” next to Lin Hao’s name! Extraordinary!
There is no question that the spectacular opening of these 29th Olympic Games was the finest I have ever witnessed (http://en.beijing2008.cn/). The precision and splendor of that opening was exceeded only by the people who directed and performed in it. It was easy to be convinced that the light show, the drumming sequence and especially the ‘cube’ happening was controlled solely by electronics. I was delightfully surprised when the performers beneath those cubes popped their heads up at the conclusion. Extraordinary!
During an NBC interview with Zhang Yimou, (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0955443/) who directed the opening ceremonies, Yimou said “We (meaning every ‘cube’ performer) worked for 4 months - 8 hours a day - and we never got it perfect – until that opening night performance.” Determination and a “never-give-up” attitude, coupled with TEAMWORK, gave the world China’s extraordinary best.
Some critics (you don’t see many statues erected in honor of critics) knocked the Chinese performers as “sterile” and lacking passion (I guess they missed the fact that there are 1.3 billion Chinese!). I disagree. When you witness perfection, it may appear “sterile” and “passionless,” but what is often missed is the extraordinary effort to achieve perfection. Although understandable, not everyone needs to display the exuberance of a Michael Phelps, as shown when his T.E.A.M. won the 4x100 Relay, to proclaim their extraordinary feat. Extraordinary performances given by ordinary people giving extra effort to perform the extraordinary!
Will you give your extra effort to every task you have in order to achieve the extraordinary?
For more information about Jim Tunney or to request his speaking services, please visit http://www.jimtunney.com/
Monday, August 11, 2008
On The Tunney Side of the Street #189 - August 11, 2008
On The Tunney Side of the Street #189 – August 11, 2008
After Further Review … “You’ve got to be kiddin’ me – Donaghy ONLY got 15 MONTHS in the ‘slammer?” shouted a current sports official to me on the phone. The official, who is a member of the National Association of Sports Officials (NASO) was outraged at the light sentencing Donaghy received but, primarily incensed about the embarrassment Donaghy caused ALL sports officials.
To recap, former National Basketball Referee Tim Donaghy pleaded guilty to Federal gambling charges on games he officiated during his 13-year tenure on the NBA courts. It was never made clear how many games and/or years Donaghy provided “inside information” to others about games he worked.
“Not long enough” continued the NASO official, stating that U.S. District Court Judge Carol Amon could have enforced the maximum sentence of 20 YEARS. Judge Amon acquiesced to Donaghy’s defense attorneys, stating that “he (Donaghy) provided substantial assistance” in the cases of his co-defendants, James Battista and Thomas Martino, former high school classmates. In the neighborhood where I grew up, we called that “ratting on your buddies.”
In my years as a referee, as well as a sports fan, there has always been a suspicious nature by fans who are “convinced” officials favor one T.E.A.M. The accusation, of course, is that the official favors the “other” team, not the one that fan follows. My book, “Impartial Judgment” explains the officials’ philosophy of
“I don’t care who wins.” I didn’t -- and neither do officials today.
Donaghy lost his 1) job as an NBA referee (earning about $160,000 a year); 2) his family – his wife, Kim, has divorced him; 3) but mostly has lost his dignity as a person. The NBA has filed a suit, which is still pending, asking him to repay $1.4 million. Judge Amon ruled that along with Battista and Martino, Donaghy must repay $217,000. Judge Amon also ordered Donaghy be “treated for his gambling addiction.” Gambling addiction?
Now, I don’t want to infringe on Dr. Phil’s territory, but the idea that Donaghy’s problem was a gambling addiction is absurd! Donaghy’s “problem” was GREED, a sense of POWER and lack of INTEGRITY – not addiction! If he were a gambling addict, why wouldn’t he just go to Vegas or Atlantic City – like former NBA stars Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley, who admit to being addicted to gambling, but NEVER bet on NBA games in which they were involved. I haven’t walked in the Judge’s shoes or sat on that “bench,” but when she swallowed that “addiction baloney,” she took the easy way out!
Plea bargaining at its worst!
Will you be watchful that greed and a false sense of power are avoided in whatever you do?
After Further Review … “You’ve got to be kiddin’ me – Donaghy ONLY got 15 MONTHS in the ‘slammer?” shouted a current sports official to me on the phone. The official, who is a member of the National Association of Sports Officials (NASO) was outraged at the light sentencing Donaghy received but, primarily incensed about the embarrassment Donaghy caused ALL sports officials.
To recap, former National Basketball Referee Tim Donaghy pleaded guilty to Federal gambling charges on games he officiated during his 13-year tenure on the NBA courts. It was never made clear how many games and/or years Donaghy provided “inside information” to others about games he worked.
“Not long enough” continued the NASO official, stating that U.S. District Court Judge Carol Amon could have enforced the maximum sentence of 20 YEARS. Judge Amon acquiesced to Donaghy’s defense attorneys, stating that “he (Donaghy) provided substantial assistance” in the cases of his co-defendants, James Battista and Thomas Martino, former high school classmates. In the neighborhood where I grew up, we called that “ratting on your buddies.”
In my years as a referee, as well as a sports fan, there has always been a suspicious nature by fans who are “convinced” officials favor one T.E.A.M. The accusation, of course, is that the official favors the “other” team, not the one that fan follows. My book, “Impartial Judgment” explains the officials’ philosophy of
“I don’t care who wins.” I didn’t -- and neither do officials today.
Donaghy lost his 1) job as an NBA referee (earning about $160,000 a year); 2) his family – his wife, Kim, has divorced him; 3) but mostly has lost his dignity as a person. The NBA has filed a suit, which is still pending, asking him to repay $1.4 million. Judge Amon ruled that along with Battista and Martino, Donaghy must repay $217,000. Judge Amon also ordered Donaghy be “treated for his gambling addiction.” Gambling addiction?
Now, I don’t want to infringe on Dr. Phil’s territory, but the idea that Donaghy’s problem was a gambling addiction is absurd! Donaghy’s “problem” was GREED, a sense of POWER and lack of INTEGRITY – not addiction! If he were a gambling addict, why wouldn’t he just go to Vegas or Atlantic City – like former NBA stars Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley, who admit to being addicted to gambling, but NEVER bet on NBA games in which they were involved. I haven’t walked in the Judge’s shoes or sat on that “bench,” but when she swallowed that “addiction baloney,” she took the easy way out!
Plea bargaining at its worst!
Will you be watchful that greed and a false sense of power are avoided in whatever you do?
Sunday, August 3, 2008
On The Tunney Side of the Street #188 - August 4, 2008
On the Tunney Side of the Street #188, August 4, 2008
After Further Review … All 32 National Football League teams opened their 2008 training camps the third week in July with less than one-half of those drafted in the first round signing their contracts. The others had not signed by the day the camps opened. Oh, they will … but when?
How in the world can a first round draft pick, whose salary and signing bonus -- much of it guaranteed in the multi-millions -- delay getting started? Coaches tell me that it is VITAL for rookies to begin-at-the-beginning. The transition from the college game to the NFL is enormous. Who do these Rookies think they are, anyway? Some of the first rounders will be out of the NFL in a year or two – mostly because they didn’t make it!
Veteran players in today’s NFL games are hesitant to criticize “holdouts,” nor do they even seem to want to encourage their brethren to report to training camp on time. That same thinking is also present with today’s players who fail to admonish teammates for “show boating.” Players often just look the other way, as they did in ignoring the poor behavior of the likes of Michael Vick and Pacman Jones. A teammate's leadership might have saved those two – and others – for the fate that befell them.
Holdouts are not new. Players have “held out” for many years. Jerry Kramer, All-pro Green Bay Packers Guard in the 1960’s said that when he “negotiated’ with Head Coach Vince Lombardi, he wanted $27,000 to play in his 11th season – that was his total salary; no bonuses. Lombardi would only go for $26,500. Kramer held out; Lombardi finally agreed to $27,000, but that was in June and not a day of training camp was missed.
The 2008 NFL draft was in April. Why didn’t negotiations begin in early May? Well, often players in the first round wait to see what other first rounders are getting to compare their offers. Thus, it has become “play for the money” and not for the love of the game as it was in Kramer’s day.
Agents play such a dominant role in the holdout. The agent, of course, is the player’s main negotiator and, as such, has that player’s attention. The unfortunate issue is that a determined, often truculent, agent fails to see the value of reporting on-time to training camp. The value is two-fold: 1) the conditioning and timing of each player in concert with his team and 2) the camaraderie that is necessary for the chemistry needed to build a T.E.A.M. (Together Everyone Accomplishes More).
Will you give your best to help build your T.E.A.M. chemistry?
For more information about Jim Tunney, please visit his website:
www.JimTunney.com, or if you would like to respond to this message,
please send your email to Jim@JimTunney.com
After Further Review … All 32 National Football League teams opened their 2008 training camps the third week in July with less than one-half of those drafted in the first round signing their contracts. The others had not signed by the day the camps opened. Oh, they will … but when?
How in the world can a first round draft pick, whose salary and signing bonus -- much of it guaranteed in the multi-millions -- delay getting started? Coaches tell me that it is VITAL for rookies to begin-at-the-beginning. The transition from the college game to the NFL is enormous. Who do these Rookies think they are, anyway? Some of the first rounders will be out of the NFL in a year or two – mostly because they didn’t make it!
Veteran players in today’s NFL games are hesitant to criticize “holdouts,” nor do they even seem to want to encourage their brethren to report to training camp on time. That same thinking is also present with today’s players who fail to admonish teammates for “show boating.” Players often just look the other way, as they did in ignoring the poor behavior of the likes of Michael Vick and Pacman Jones. A teammate's leadership might have saved those two – and others – for the fate that befell them.
Holdouts are not new. Players have “held out” for many years. Jerry Kramer, All-pro Green Bay Packers Guard in the 1960’s said that when he “negotiated’ with Head Coach Vince Lombardi, he wanted $27,000 to play in his 11th season – that was his total salary; no bonuses. Lombardi would only go for $26,500. Kramer held out; Lombardi finally agreed to $27,000, but that was in June and not a day of training camp was missed.
The 2008 NFL draft was in April. Why didn’t negotiations begin in early May? Well, often players in the first round wait to see what other first rounders are getting to compare their offers. Thus, it has become “play for the money” and not for the love of the game as it was in Kramer’s day.
Agents play such a dominant role in the holdout. The agent, of course, is the player’s main negotiator and, as such, has that player’s attention. The unfortunate issue is that a determined, often truculent, agent fails to see the value of reporting on-time to training camp. The value is two-fold: 1) the conditioning and timing of each player in concert with his team and 2) the camaraderie that is necessary for the chemistry needed to build a T.E.A.M. (Together Everyone Accomplishes More).
Will you give your best to help build your T.E.A.M. chemistry?
For more information about Jim Tunney, please visit his website:
www.JimTunney.com, or if you would like to respond to this message,
please send your email to Jim@JimTunney.com
Saturday, August 2, 2008
On The Tunney Side of the Street #186 - July 21, 2008
On the Tunney Side of the Street #186 July 21, 2008
After Further Review .... In "The House that Ruth Built," the American League defeated the National League 4-3 in the 15th inning of the 79th Major League All-Star Baseball game. This was the 4th All-Star game played at Yankee Stadium – and the final one! Tears fell. The current Yankee Stadium (86 years old) will be demolished after the final out on September 21, 2008. The "new" Yankee Stadium is well under construction and should be finished in time for the 2009 MLB Season.
Yankee Stadium meant a lot to me. As a kid growing up in the San Gabriel Valley (Southern California), I listened on the radio (no TV yet!) to Yankee games every chance I could. Ruth, Gehrig, DiMaggio, Rizzuto, Mize, Ruffing – the whole era of baseball for me was focused in the Bronx. The Dodgers, Angels, Giants, Padres, A’s, were not yet in California.
The Dodgers were still in Brooklyn ("Dem Bums"). The Giants played at the Polo grounds as the New York Giants, and the A’s were the Philadelphia Athletics. The Angels and Padres weren’t even born yet. Neither were Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera and the rest of the current Yankees.
I was raised not only on Yankee lore, but as a kid wanting to shape my athletic career around being: "Starting pitcher for the Yankees this afternoon, Jim Tunney!" I can still hear Bob Sheppard’s voice (Yankee’s P.A. announcer) resonating throughout that iconic stadium. The rest of that story did not develop beyond that dream. My baseball career came to an abrupt halt midway through my college days. Professionally? No chance!
However, when you dream about something long enough and often enough, it can happen. After officiating in high school and college football games, the NFL invited me to join their officiating ranks in 1960. Then in November 1960, I was assigned to Referee (field judge actually) the Pittsburgh Steelers at the New York Giants in (are you ready for some football!) YANKEE STADIUM!
I had never been to New York, and of course, never set foot on the field at Yankee Stadium. As soon as I arrived, I put my officiating bag in our locker room, walked down the tunnel, up the first base dugout steps … and … and, YES! Walked right to where the mound would have been (it was removed to make the football field level). I just stood there for a few minutes (seemed like an hour) and with tears streaming down my cheeks, and threw a perfect strike (albeit imaginative) as plate umpire Doug Harvey called out "Steeeeee-rike!" I was home!
Will you follow your dream, never giving up until it comes true?
After Further Review .... In "The House that Ruth Built," the American League defeated the National League 4-3 in the 15th inning of the 79th Major League All-Star Baseball game. This was the 4th All-Star game played at Yankee Stadium – and the final one! Tears fell. The current Yankee Stadium (86 years old) will be demolished after the final out on September 21, 2008. The "new" Yankee Stadium is well under construction and should be finished in time for the 2009 MLB Season.
Yankee Stadium meant a lot to me. As a kid growing up in the San Gabriel Valley (Southern California), I listened on the radio (no TV yet!) to Yankee games every chance I could. Ruth, Gehrig, DiMaggio, Rizzuto, Mize, Ruffing – the whole era of baseball for me was focused in the Bronx. The Dodgers, Angels, Giants, Padres, A’s, were not yet in California.
The Dodgers were still in Brooklyn ("Dem Bums"). The Giants played at the Polo grounds as the New York Giants, and the A’s were the Philadelphia Athletics. The Angels and Padres weren’t even born yet. Neither were Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera and the rest of the current Yankees.
I was raised not only on Yankee lore, but as a kid wanting to shape my athletic career around being: "Starting pitcher for the Yankees this afternoon, Jim Tunney!" I can still hear Bob Sheppard’s voice (Yankee’s P.A. announcer) resonating throughout that iconic stadium. The rest of that story did not develop beyond that dream. My baseball career came to an abrupt halt midway through my college days. Professionally? No chance!
However, when you dream about something long enough and often enough, it can happen. After officiating in high school and college football games, the NFL invited me to join their officiating ranks in 1960. Then in November 1960, I was assigned to Referee (field judge actually) the Pittsburgh Steelers at the New York Giants in (are you ready for some football!) YANKEE STADIUM!
I had never been to New York, and of course, never set foot on the field at Yankee Stadium. As soon as I arrived, I put my officiating bag in our locker room, walked down the tunnel, up the first base dugout steps … and … and, YES! Walked right to where the mound would have been (it was removed to make the football field level). I just stood there for a few minutes (seemed like an hour) and with tears streaming down my cheeks, and threw a perfect strike (albeit imaginative) as plate umpire Doug Harvey called out "Steeeeee-rike!" I was home!
Will you follow your dream, never giving up until it comes true?
For more information about Jim Tunney, please visit his website:
www.JimTunney.com, or if you would like to respond to this message,
please send your email to Jim@JimTunney.com
On The Tunney Side of the Street #184 - July 7, 2008
On the Tunney Side of the Street #184 - July 7, 2008
After Further Review .... The 2008 Olympic Games open one month from tomorrow, 08-08-08 in Beijing, China, with a lot of excitement and anticipation that the USA will be triumphant over our competitive countries. While I fully support our athletes and want them to do well, it appears to me – it has for many Olympic Games now – that we have let the “Spirit” of the Olympics get away from us.
“Citius, Altius, Fortius” -- interpreted to mean swifter, higher, stronger -- has always been the Olympic motto. The games were designed to compare INDIVIDUAL ATHLETICISM – not country competition. Most countries (not just the USA) want to “stack up” their country’s scores against other countries (i.e. country vs. country, not athlete vs. athlete). The Olympic Creed of “The essential thing is not to have conquered, but to have fought well” has been lost.
Enter the US Olympic Mens Basketball T.E.A.M. Being a team sport in itself takes away from the individual competition. Now, don’t get ahead of me here – I like the T.E.A.M. concept and countries should put their best team forward. But the US Olympic Mens Basketball T.E.A.M. is made up of NBA players – professionals!
You may recall that the great athlete Jim Thorpe had his Olympic Gold medals in the Decathlon and Pentathlon 1912 Olympics taken away because it was later discovered that Thorpe had played on, and received money from, a professional baseball team. In today’s Olympic competition, most of the players from every country are paid. USA began playing professionals in the Olympics when it was discovered we were sending our best amateur players, but facing professionals from other countries.
We should send our best athletes, but why not our best amateurs to maintain the “Spirit” of the games. Sixteen years ago, the first “DREAM TEAM” comprised of NBA players wanted 5-star treatment by living in luxurious hotels and not in the Olympic Village. Granted the Olympic Village was “spartan” compared to what these professional athletes were used to, but the value of being together in an Olympic environment was lost – and so did the Dream Team.
Further, the selection of Denver Nugget’s star Carmelo Anthony to the Olympic basketball team is suspect. Anthony certainly is one of the more talented players. However, the Nugget’s suspended “Melo” for 2 games, starting the 2008-2009 NBA season, when he was recently arrested after “pleading guilty to driving while impaired” (DUI). If the Nugget’s felt it necessary to take this aggressive action, why didn’t the Olympic Team do likewise? In sending our “Best Athletes,” it is important to incorporate character along with athleticism.
Will you support the Olympic Games that comprise the best amateurs strong in character as well as athleticism?
For more information about Jim Tunney, please visit his website:
www.JimTunney.com, or if you would like to respond to this message, please send your email to Jim@JimTunney.com
After Further Review .... The 2008 Olympic Games open one month from tomorrow, 08-08-08 in Beijing, China, with a lot of excitement and anticipation that the USA will be triumphant over our competitive countries. While I fully support our athletes and want them to do well, it appears to me – it has for many Olympic Games now – that we have let the “Spirit” of the Olympics get away from us.
“Citius, Altius, Fortius” -- interpreted to mean swifter, higher, stronger -- has always been the Olympic motto. The games were designed to compare INDIVIDUAL ATHLETICISM – not country competition. Most countries (not just the USA) want to “stack up” their country’s scores against other countries (i.e. country vs. country, not athlete vs. athlete). The Olympic Creed of “The essential thing is not to have conquered, but to have fought well” has been lost.
Enter the US Olympic Mens Basketball T.E.A.M. Being a team sport in itself takes away from the individual competition. Now, don’t get ahead of me here – I like the T.E.A.M. concept and countries should put their best team forward. But the US Olympic Mens Basketball T.E.A.M. is made up of NBA players – professionals!
You may recall that the great athlete Jim Thorpe had his Olympic Gold medals in the Decathlon and Pentathlon 1912 Olympics taken away because it was later discovered that Thorpe had played on, and received money from, a professional baseball team. In today’s Olympic competition, most of the players from every country are paid. USA began playing professionals in the Olympics when it was discovered we were sending our best amateur players, but facing professionals from other countries.
We should send our best athletes, but why not our best amateurs to maintain the “Spirit” of the games. Sixteen years ago, the first “DREAM TEAM” comprised of NBA players wanted 5-star treatment by living in luxurious hotels and not in the Olympic Village. Granted the Olympic Village was “spartan” compared to what these professional athletes were used to, but the value of being together in an Olympic environment was lost – and so did the Dream Team.
Further, the selection of Denver Nugget’s star Carmelo Anthony to the Olympic basketball team is suspect. Anthony certainly is one of the more talented players. However, the Nugget’s suspended “Melo” for 2 games, starting the 2008-2009 NBA season, when he was recently arrested after “pleading guilty to driving while impaired” (DUI). If the Nugget’s felt it necessary to take this aggressive action, why didn’t the Olympic Team do likewise? In sending our “Best Athletes,” it is important to incorporate character along with athleticism.
Will you support the Olympic Games that comprise the best amateurs strong in character as well as athleticism?
For more information about Jim Tunney, please visit his website:
www.JimTunney.com, or if you would like to respond to this message, please send your email to Jim@JimTunney.com
On The Tunney Side of the Street #185, July 14, 2008
On the Tunney Side of the Street #185 - July 14, 2008
After Further Review .... “His Grace never ends,” said NBC announcer Ted Robinson about Roger Federer as Federer accepted his defeat and congratulated Rafael Nadal on Nadal’s victory in the 2008 Wimbledon All England Club Championship. Federer, who had won this tennis championship 5 straight times, now had to sit back and accept the role of runner-up.
“Probably my hardest loss – doesn’t get much harder than this right now,” said Federer as he graciously answered post-match interview questions. Roger was 2 points from victory in this 4 hours and 48 minutes “test of wills” (Remember: “It’s the Will, not the Skill”) centre court historic event. Yet, through all of his frustration, tremendous disappointment, and weariness, Federer ‘stepped up’ – as the champion he is – to say “Rafa’s a deserving champion – he played fantastically.”
The humility and grace of both Federer and Nadal cannot – and should not – take second place to that victory. As Nadal, the champion said, “I’m sorry for him, because he deserved this title, too.” Nadal, a Spaniard whose name is now engraved on the Wimbledon Cup just below 5 consecutive engravings of Federer’s, is the first player to win both the French Open and Wimbledon in 28 years (since Bjorn Borg in 1980). Too often at that level of supremacy in a sport, an athlete becomes somewhat jaded and/or pompous. Not Nadal. Not Federer. And finally, Nadal said of Federer, “He’s still the best.”
All those who saw it live – either sitting at centre court or on television, have proclaimed this Wimbledon “the best ever.” What is more impressive is that these two competitors fought – to physical exhaustion – and gave everything they had. No trash talking, no screaming at the chair umpire, no vile language. And at the end, they were composed, albeit teary eyed, and down right nice to each other! True champions!
Perhaps, when each time they left their locker room, they read the sign over the doorway: “If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster, and treat those two imposters just the same” (Rudyard Kipling’s “If” circa 1910). Triumph and Disaster? Imposters? Of course! While we must always “play to win the game” (Herm Edwards 2004), the end result is our full-out effort. Then walk away knowing you gave all you could.
To all parents, teachers and coaches – can we make ‘winning’ a goal and not the end-all? Life does and will go on for Federer, as it will for each of us – IF, we can treat those two imposters just the same.
Will you give your best performance each time whatever the result?
For more information about Jim Tunney, please visit his website:
www.JimTunney.com, or if you would like to respond to this message, please send your email to Jim@JimTunney.com
After Further Review .... “His Grace never ends,” said NBC announcer Ted Robinson about Roger Federer as Federer accepted his defeat and congratulated Rafael Nadal on Nadal’s victory in the 2008 Wimbledon All England Club Championship. Federer, who had won this tennis championship 5 straight times, now had to sit back and accept the role of runner-up.
“Probably my hardest loss – doesn’t get much harder than this right now,” said Federer as he graciously answered post-match interview questions. Roger was 2 points from victory in this 4 hours and 48 minutes “test of wills” (Remember: “It’s the Will, not the Skill”) centre court historic event. Yet, through all of his frustration, tremendous disappointment, and weariness, Federer ‘stepped up’ – as the champion he is – to say “Rafa’s a deserving champion – he played fantastically.”
The humility and grace of both Federer and Nadal cannot – and should not – take second place to that victory. As Nadal, the champion said, “I’m sorry for him, because he deserved this title, too.” Nadal, a Spaniard whose name is now engraved on the Wimbledon Cup just below 5 consecutive engravings of Federer’s, is the first player to win both the French Open and Wimbledon in 28 years (since Bjorn Borg in 1980). Too often at that level of supremacy in a sport, an athlete becomes somewhat jaded and/or pompous. Not Nadal. Not Federer. And finally, Nadal said of Federer, “He’s still the best.”
All those who saw it live – either sitting at centre court or on television, have proclaimed this Wimbledon “the best ever.” What is more impressive is that these two competitors fought – to physical exhaustion – and gave everything they had. No trash talking, no screaming at the chair umpire, no vile language. And at the end, they were composed, albeit teary eyed, and down right nice to each other! True champions!
Perhaps, when each time they left their locker room, they read the sign over the doorway: “If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster, and treat those two imposters just the same” (Rudyard Kipling’s “If” circa 1910). Triumph and Disaster? Imposters? Of course! While we must always “play to win the game” (Herm Edwards 2004), the end result is our full-out effort. Then walk away knowing you gave all you could.
To all parents, teachers and coaches – can we make ‘winning’ a goal and not the end-all? Life does and will go on for Federer, as it will for each of us – IF, we can treat those two imposters just the same.
Will you give your best performance each time whatever the result?
For more information about Jim Tunney, please visit his website:
www.JimTunney.com, or if you would like to respond to this message, please send your email to Jim@JimTunney.com
On The Tunney Side of the Street #187, July 28, 2008
On the Tunney Side of the Street #187 July 28, 2008
After Further Review .... “When are these idiots going to learn? They continue to think they can beat the system. They’re wrong,” said Pat McQuaid, International Cycling Union Leader. McQuaid was referring to cyclist racer Manuel Beltran, who tested positive for EPO – the performance enhancement drug. Beltran was instantly kicked out of the Tour de France and suspended by his T.E.A.M.
Beltran, who rode alongside Lance Armstrong as one of the U.S. Postal Cyclists for 3 years, is not alone. Three of his teammates, all former Postal riders during Armstrong’s seven Tour victories, also failed doping tests. Italy’s Riccardo Ricco, winner of two stages in the 2008 Tour, tested positive after the fourth stage and was busted. What part of the word T.E.A.M. don’t these “idiots” understand? How can they believe they can “beat the system?”
Michael Rasmussen, Iban Mayo, and Floyd Landis, have either been “kicked out,” stripped of their racing titles, and/or tested positive. Moises Deunas Nevado, a 27 year old Spaniard who was 19th overall after the 4th stage, was ousted when the “lure of glory” seemed to be stronger than just doing the right thing. But let’s not focus solely on Tour de France racing.
For “beating the system,” let’s start with former NBA Referee, Tim Donaghy, who pleaded guilty to a scandal involving betting on NBA games he officiated. Where does loyalty to your T.E.A.M. come into play? Plenty has been said about the NFL’s Michael Vick and Adam (Pacman) Jones trying to beat the system. And let’s not leave out former Olympic sprinter Marion Jones, now serving a 6-month prison sentence for using EPO, then lying about it to the Feds. The question is: if you think you can “beat the system,” but run the risk of NOT, would it ever occur to you that you not only put yourself in harm’s way, but also your colleagues, friends - and your family!
On a personal note, I was always concerned (“afraid” is a more apt word) that stepping over that line would embarrass my family and the good name they had established. In my book, “It’s the Will, Not the Skill” dedicated to Coach Herm Edwards’ parents, Herman Sr., cautioned Herm by saying “Son, I can’t give you lots of money or a fancy home, but I can give you a good name. Use it wisely.” Herm has.
“Use it wisely” – can we tell them that -- not just athletes who make, or stand to make, a lot of money, but especially kids – either ones in our family or the ones we coach?
Will you live up to the Edwards’ code that says “Just do the right thing?”
For more information about Jim Tunney, please visit his website:
www.JimTunney.com, or if you would like to respond to this message,
please send your email to Jim@JimTunney.com
After Further Review .... “When are these idiots going to learn? They continue to think they can beat the system. They’re wrong,” said Pat McQuaid, International Cycling Union Leader. McQuaid was referring to cyclist racer Manuel Beltran, who tested positive for EPO – the performance enhancement drug. Beltran was instantly kicked out of the Tour de France and suspended by his T.E.A.M.
Beltran, who rode alongside Lance Armstrong as one of the U.S. Postal Cyclists for 3 years, is not alone. Three of his teammates, all former Postal riders during Armstrong’s seven Tour victories, also failed doping tests. Italy’s Riccardo Ricco, winner of two stages in the 2008 Tour, tested positive after the fourth stage and was busted. What part of the word T.E.A.M. don’t these “idiots” understand? How can they believe they can “beat the system?”
Michael Rasmussen, Iban Mayo, and Floyd Landis, have either been “kicked out,” stripped of their racing titles, and/or tested positive. Moises Deunas Nevado, a 27 year old Spaniard who was 19th overall after the 4th stage, was ousted when the “lure of glory” seemed to be stronger than just doing the right thing. But let’s not focus solely on Tour de France racing.
For “beating the system,” let’s start with former NBA Referee, Tim Donaghy, who pleaded guilty to a scandal involving betting on NBA games he officiated. Where does loyalty to your T.E.A.M. come into play? Plenty has been said about the NFL’s Michael Vick and Adam (Pacman) Jones trying to beat the system. And let’s not leave out former Olympic sprinter Marion Jones, now serving a 6-month prison sentence for using EPO, then lying about it to the Feds. The question is: if you think you can “beat the system,” but run the risk of NOT, would it ever occur to you that you not only put yourself in harm’s way, but also your colleagues, friends - and your family!
On a personal note, I was always concerned (“afraid” is a more apt word) that stepping over that line would embarrass my family and the good name they had established. In my book, “It’s the Will, Not the Skill” dedicated to Coach Herm Edwards’ parents, Herman Sr., cautioned Herm by saying “Son, I can’t give you lots of money or a fancy home, but I can give you a good name. Use it wisely.” Herm has.
“Use it wisely” – can we tell them that -- not just athletes who make, or stand to make, a lot of money, but especially kids – either ones in our family or the ones we coach?
Will you live up to the Edwards’ code that says “Just do the right thing?”
For more information about Jim Tunney, please visit his website:
www.JimTunney.com, or if you would like to respond to this message,
please send your email to Jim@JimTunney.com
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