Hey everybody,
My name is Joanie Dodd and I am a sports fanatic. To me there is nothing greater than the classic NCAA, NBA, MLB and NFL. The days where men were men not because of their sexual orientation but because they cared greatly about anything they attached their name to. I loved the days when kids were proud to play for schools and represent the organization as an ambassador to the fans. Instead of being more concerned with what they will be getting out of their time in school. No longer is it acceptable compensation to allow these kids to become educated and trained to be a professional. Gone are the days when it was allowed for NCAA coaches to see kids in need and reach out to help them as John Wooden did. Now we have coaches making more money than the presidents of the universities. You used to have such inspired performances not just by the NCAA kids but by the pros as well. Now it feels as if all the pros are more concerned with their annual income and sponsorship opportunities instead of being stewards for mankind. Sports heroes used to not be afraid to take a stand for the right thing regardless of the consequences. The Jackie Robertsons, John Woodens, Branch Rickeys and Don Haskins of the world are simply ghosts of the past. Hank Greenberg along with several other baseball greats volunteered their services in the Armed forces when it was necessary for them to be more than just a famous face. I love these days of sports and sports heroes. Oh I miss those days.

My reflective statement is one made by John Wooden, the molder of men, "Failing to prepare is preparing to fail."