You can be sure what you’re about to read is biased—big time. Growing up in Massachusetts, I’m a fan of Boston sports teams. But in any event, I think you’ll appreciate two very different yet equally important sports stars here in New England and what they’ve done recently.Both are heroes in my mind and provide lessons any kid could use to be better at what they do. We can all relate to having teammates like them and what they bring to a team.
Boston Celtics center Kevin Garnett had a monster first-round series against the Atlanta Hawks. He’s been playing like someone 10 years younger. You’ll want to watch his post-game interview after closing them out in six. Here’s a professional athlete who takes pride in his trade. He works at it and he’s good at it. That’s not hype. It’s refreshing to hear when too often we’re stuck with spoiled stars complaining.
Then we have New England Patriots’ wide receiver, Chad Ochocinco, whom I love. He still may not have learned last year’s playbook, but in terms of value added to the team, he’s money. What is it that he brings? He lightens up the mood. He makes players forget about the game and laugh at what he’s doing. In such a high-pressure job, he’s the balm that puts everyone at ease. That’s a gift you can’t teach.
In a letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, Chad begins with “Dear Dad”. It’s classic Ocho—keeping it light when it’s needed. For that reason alone I’d keep him around. It appears Coach Belichik feels the same way.
Many of you know I have a father–son relationship with Roger Goodell. I love him and just had to reach out to him with all that is going on. We are at a crucial point in the history of football. The foundation of the game is in jeopardy based on all these factors and the future of the game is going to be shaped by him.
Dear Dad,
I know it has been a rough week, so I wanted to reach out. Players dying, players suing and on top of that my peers are just going off on you in the media. It does not help that ESPN has all of a sudden become Medical TV with damn near every brain expert on the planet. This has got to be the worst week ever. Since no one is showing any support, I figured I would be the first. You are in one big-ass catch 22 and quite frankly, I am not sure there is any solution. One thing I think can help is killing the NFL PR machine.
Y’all do a darn near perfect job at portraying this game as one played by heroes. But let’s be real dad. This is a nasty, dirty and violent game with consequences. Sign up or go get a regular job. Watch it or turn off the TV and go fishing with your kids. It is really that simple. I know there are probably legal and financial implications that prevent this blunt depiction, but am not sure if you have a choice. If you don’t say it now, the mounting evidence being revealed publicly will say it for you very soon. In all, I love you and if anyone can lead us out of this mess, it will be you. Oh by the way, I have a deal for you. Am having a rebound year and plan to do a lot of celebrating in the end zone. Can my fine money go to supporting ex-players suffering?
Sincerely,
Chad
