Are you Djoking?

Quick, sports fans, who is currently the most dominant athlete in sports?  If you guessed anyone but Novak Djokovic you are wrong.  The Serb has an astonishing 2011 record.

Serbia: produces better tennis players than the America

Take a guess at how many matches he's lost.  If you guessed zero, you'd be correct.  now, guess how many sets...well I mean it's 9, but that's out of 99 possible.  This means Djokovic wins 91% of sets he plays.  His record in 2011?  40-0.  Djokovic has always had the talent.  He beat Roger Federer back when Federer was the most dominant player on the planet.  It made Djokovic my hero back then, and his personality made him my favorite tennis player in the world.  Now, Novak is really letting his talent go.  Perhaps his greatest feat is defeating Rafael (currently World #1 and renowned clay fiend) in Madrid...on clay.

Another contender for his greatest feat.

Djokovic then added another clay court victory over Rafa at the ATP Internazionali BNL d'Italia.  Oh, and I'm sure none of you knew that both those victories were in straight sets.  This season, Novak has already surpassed his career high for singles victories in a year (7, previously 5) and will transcend his record for earnings in a year when the French Open finishes.  He only had one Grand Slam title (2008 Aussie Open) coming into 2011, but Novak looks primed to become a contender at every single Slam.  His biggest struggles have been on grass courts.  He'll have to be in his best form when the England Club comes calling for Wimbledon.  His 2011 could not have started better (obviously).  With Roger Federer as a non-entity in 2011 (so it appears) Djokovic-Nadal is about to become the greatest rivalry in the world and perhaps one of the greatest of all time.  Both players are relatively young.  Their feud could last for half a decade, unless another surprising caller comes and steps in the way Djokovic has for Federer just when it seemed Nadal was about to take the sport over entirely.  So in conclusion: Novak Djokovic has been the world's most dominating athlete in 2011 so far, and after straight set victories in rounds 1 & 2 at Roland Garros, he is striving to keep the title for a while longer.

Sport, thy name is Lacrosse!

Some people don't seem to understand the beauty that is the sport of lacrosse.  Many deem it nonsensical and declare it a spring sport for those who cannot play baseball.  However, the sport of lacrosse is one which requires skill and stamina beyond the call of any other.  The sport is beautiful.  Watching as the goalie makes a save, swinging his stick around to the weak side.  He clears it to a defender who passes it to a mid-fielder.  The galloping middies dash down the field, find an open attackman who finishes, bouncing the ball in front and it skyrockets to the top left corner, the goalie not knowing what happened.

Pictured: not knowing what happened

Many will disagree, but until you see the sport in action there is no understanding it.  Truthfully, until you pick up a stick yourself and throw for a couple of minutes and then try to get out and play does one understand.  The game can take months to develop and is never mastered.  The best players make mistakes which it appears a neophyte could avoid,  Why is lacrosse so hated?  Why do so many people vitriolically brutalize the sport as being that of losers?  I think the first wave of people to play lacrosse were the outcasts.  Immediately drawn to a new sport, the jocks decided it was below them.  Now, as the east coast is in a lax frenzy, people see the beauty of lacrosse.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3bZvJ8RT74 (a video also helps)


Lacrosse is truly something to marvel.  Soccer is called the beautiful game, but now imagine soccer where everything is faster, more physical, and basically more American.  I find it truly incredible that lacrosse still manages to garner little success around the nation.  Perhaps another video?


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-h8vtpTdw4I&feature=related

Whatever your taste, beauty or aggression, lacrosse has it.  I find the sport to be up there with the other popular sports in America in terms of entertainment value, if not above.  The sport is truly a team sport, where one great player can make little to no difference.

Pictured: One great player making a difference

So if you can give me your attention, I find it is time to give lacrosse it...so in other words, stop giving me your attention and give it to lacrosse.  Lacrosse is the most up and coming sport in the nation.  It has all the attributes to be a great American sport (despite being French).  Lacrosse is cool...watch it and give it a chance.

15 Songs You Need to Hear

Oh, ho hum, as we continue to avoid the humdrum world of athletic, the world of music offers me the opportunity to give spread the sweet symphonies of a few bands to you.  There are songs which are well known and songs that hopefully aren't so well known.  Take a gander:


15.  Modern Day Mountain Man by Bryan Ragsdale
Genre: Country
A very positive song.  This song relates to just being yourself.  Ragsdale has a fantastic country voice.  It's extremely probable that you haven't heard of him nor heard him, but take a listen.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HzXGBFB8ysU

14. Feel Good Inc. by Gorillaz
Genre: Rock
A song which features an interesting rap insert from De La Soulm "Feel Good Inc" is a song which everyone can enjoy.  The slow, mezmerizing chorus will leave you happy.  Try it out for yourself.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=plvpV9p0ywg

13. Laughing With by Regina Spektor
Genre: Soft Rock
This song makes me tear up everytime.  It is a song which I cannot supply an explanation to you.  This selection demands your own interpredation.  So, please, listen.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pxRXP3w-sQ

12. American Pie by Don McLean
Genre: Rock
Probably the most famous of the songs on this list, this classic is perhaps the best song as well.  Despite coming in at #12, this 8 and 1/2 minute long masterpiece makes me happy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAsV5-Hv-7U

11. Float On by Modest Mouse
Genre: Alternative Rock
Modest Mouse delivers a true inspirational piece.  Speaking that we can fight through any trouble, "Float On" can pick one up as well as any other song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CTAud5O7Qqk

10. Don't Dream it's Over by Sixpence None the Richer
Genre: Inspirational
Another inspirational piece, this anti-war craft by Sixpence None the Richer provides the listen with a soothing tone.  The vocals are outstanding, it's nice.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bdOefF_tyU

9. Voices by Chris Young
Genre: Country
The second country song on my list, "Voices" by Chris Young is a beautiful song.  It dispenses the message of how important people are in life.  Plus it is a good song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bdOefF_tyU

8.Thrill of It by Robert Randolph
Genre: Rock
This feel good song is just fun to listen to.  The flowing lyrics and such make it an anthem for someone just needing some good music.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_tFOiF1oZOw 


7. Prospekt's March/Poppyfields by Coldplay
Genre: Alternative
This mellifluous melody by the famous band Coldplay comes off their Prospekt's March EP.  It is a slow moving, heart rendering song.  It will make you think, which is always a good thing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUoh0n7os_E 


6. Cat People (Putting out Fires) by David Bowie
Genre: Rock
David Bowie comes full force in this song.  It is an odd song, but it challenges the usual type of song.  It has great lyricism, as Bowie really gets into it with meaningful and deep lyrics.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z7pc3_TAi7c


The Top 5 songs:

5. Collapse (Post-Amerika)
Genre: Rock
Political band Rise Against unleashes this song on its album Appeal to Reason.  There is no real meaning behind this song for me, but it is an amazing song.  Listen to it, please.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCq-x5RHsJA



4. Alive with the Glory of Love by Say Anything
Genre: Rock
Say Anything unleashes this anthem about love, love so strong it can survive through the Holocausts of World War II.  Despite being a song about love, it has a very alternative sound and isn't sappy at all.  Give it a listen and it will become one of your favorite love songs.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7rYZjv3wNg  

3. Sinners Like Me by Eric Church
Genre: Country
y third country song is the most outstanding of the three, naturally.  The #3 song on the list of songs you need to hear now is just an incredible song.  Eric Church will bring memories of your loved ones flowing to the front of your mind.  Prepare to be wowed.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8S-o7sjXspA  


2. Flight of Apollo by Angels & Airwaves
Genre: Alternative
My favorite song at the moment, "The Flight of Apollo" is a booming performance.  It talks deeply about living life, and how important the people and things in our lives are.  The confusing verses are up to your own interpretation.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ypnOnVwg8sc

1. The Prayer by Kid Cudi
Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
This is a song that no one can deny is completely badass.  Kid Cudi turns prayer into song and delivers a mind blowing performance.  Listen to the lyrics and you cannot help but think of your own life, and how you've been living.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grPfVlj7Go4


The world of music more than any other gives us the opportunity to reflect.  There is a song appropriate for any situation.  Music can make us think or it can make us forget to think.  If we are feeling down, there is an inspirational song somewhere. There is a song for every mood, just find it and you'll never feel the same.
  

How Americans Became Terrorists:

Maybe the biggest story of 2011 so far (debatable, but isn't everything?) is the capture and death of Osama bin Laden.  The renowned leader of the terrorist al-Qaeda has been public enemy #1 in the glorious USA since the horrific morning of September 11th, 2001, and rightfully so.  He successfully hid in the mountains of Pakistan for 10 years, attempting to beat the record of Jimmy Hoffa  Suddenly, on the evening of May 1st, 2011 it was announced bin Laden had been captured and killed, which was cool.  American people let out shouts of joy and even paraded outside the White House in victory...but isn't it a little hypocritical and oxymoronic we would celebrate in such a way?  Don't we despise the terrorists because they take pride in the destruction of others?  Do we not see them dancing at the death of our soldiers and vomit?  What happened to class?  I know it was the biggest bad guy on earth, but it does not mean it is right to take pride in his death, especially to such an extreme.  We became the exact people we have been despising for 10 years and all it took was the death of one man.  We should feel content that Osama has been handled, but there is absolutely no need to parade around as if all the world's problems have been solved.  We need to remember there could be backlash and the terrorists probably won't be too excited about their leader dying, only to followed by our excessive celebration, unsportsmanlike conduct, and ridiculousness.  We should be more worried about bringing the dammed war to an end rather than celebrating the death of one man with such lavishness.  It was not American and we should be ashamed to act so much like the uncivilized terrorists of the Middle East.  We became the enemy, and that is indeed, a shame.

The Athlete-Students

You hear it every year, most often during the NCAA Tournament which just ended...well a while ago.  The term "Student-athletes"...also known as the world's most overused and frustrating misnomer.  Welcome to the United States world of universities in the 21st century.  You listen to some of the "student-athletes" speak and you wonder "where have our priorities gone?".  Or well, I do.  The world has been marred by the obsession of athletes and sports.  They make more money than almost everyone, and often they spend it faster too, wasting millions of dollars and going bankrupt...making you wonder, "student-athletes" or "athlete-students"?.  It is embarrassing, honestly.  At a parochial school in Cincinnati, Ohio called Elder there was a valedictorian who dreamed of going to Notre Dame.  He took Advanced Placement classes, graduated with above a 4.0 GPA, scored highly on the SAT and ACT tests, was an all-district offensive lineman, and a beyond solid character.  He was put on the waiting list and eventually rejected.  One year later, a student from the same school has a dream, to go to Notre Dame.  He is 6'6", a top 10 Tight End in football, has solid hands, an impressive 40 yard dash, and a 3.6 GPA...but that is in level 3 and 4 classes.  He graduated in the middle of the pack of his high class, somewhere in the sixties.  He was given a full ride scholarship to Notre Dame.  Apparently, the world needs high quality Tight Ends with nearly zero hope of ever making it to the NFL to go to one of the premiere colleges in the country whilst someone who has slaved away to earn every honor academically a high school can offer is rejected.  These are the priorities of colleges in the 2000's.  An old cliche goes, nothing is more valuable than the mind of a child...except for the athleticism of another child.  Granted, sports bring in the big bucks...which is why sportsmen earn them as well.  This article on a blog 10 people read won't change the way the world turns, but I can blog what I want.  I'd like to offer a toast, to the athlete-students.  Without you, I would have nothing to complain about this evening.  Good luck in your acade....athletic ventures.  I will saunter off to community college, where my 1520 SAT score will be appreciated.

Macier's NFL Mock Draft:

The world of the NFL is in shambles, but the draft is quickly approaching.  This year is a year of the Quarterback as 6 or 7 high level players at the position are on the board.  Aside from the strength at the QB position, the Running Back position is weak as there may be zero first round picks at the RB spot.  Here are the top five players at each "position":

QB:
(1) Cameron Newton: he is an athletic specimen who has shown he can throw with the big boys during his pro day and at the combine.  He looks special, like a bigger, slower, better throwing Mike Vick.
(2) Blane Gabbert: some think he is the best "NFL" Quarterback in the draft and by far the most NFL ready.  He is a pure thrower with talent.
(3) Jake Locker: He was a possible #1 overall selection last year.  A stronger class and a spotty senior year slipped his stock, but he is still has great tools and potentially is the best QB in the class.
(4) Ryan Mallet: he has the physical tools, but some question his character.  He played at the highest level for a pure QB in the toughest conference...he could be special.
(5) Christian Ponder: Some like Andy Dalton as the 3rd or even 2nd best QB this year, but I don't...I put Ponder here.

RB/WR/TE:
(1) Julio Jones (WR): Many like AJ Green, but Jones is a big, physical receiver who will block masterfully downfield and make differences at each level in the passing game.
(2) A.J. Green (WR): another WR as the running backs are weak.  Green is the best deep threat in the class.  He has great hands and is very dangerous.
(3) Mark Ingram (RB): Ingram is a strong and fast runner.  The running backs are weak, but Ingram could be a good if not great tailback in the NFL.
(4) Kyle Rudolph (TE): The Elder High School grade is a physical monster (6'7", 270, 4.6 speed) with outstanding hands.  He is an archetypal NFL TE and could be a Tony Gonzalez.
(5) Ryan Williams (RB): he is probably the most dangerous back in the draft, but injury could temper his vaule.

Offensive Line: 
(1) Anthony Castonzo (T): experienced, big, strong, quick feet...everything you want in a OT
(2) Tyson Smith (T): a raw talent with all the physical tools.  Only inexperience drops him to #2.
(3) Danny Watkins (G): The Baylor Bear is a solid guard, a tough guy who has strong legs.
(4) Mike Pouncey (G or C): he struggled at center at Florida, could be a top guard in the League.
(5) Gabe Carimi (T): the Badger from Wisconsin is a solid tackle, much like Castonzo and Smith.

Defensive Line:
(1) Marcell Darius (DT): A pure run stopper.  He can't get to the QB like Suh, but he's a big body.
(2) Robert Quinn (DE): some thought he could be a top 5 pick and even a Heisman candidate, but Quinn had a below expected senior year, but that doesn't mean the talent is gone.
(3) Da'Quan Bowers (DE): another player who has fallen off the map.  Bowers used to be #1 overall potential.
(4) Nick Fairly (DT): a risky pick, was a one year phenom at Auburn.
(5) J.J. Watts (DE): A top-10 talent...may fall far due to lack of need at DE for most teams.

Linebackers:
(1) Von Miller: A no doubt best LB, he is pure talent.  He could be very special in the NFL.
(2) Akeem Ayers: another outside rushing type like Miller, but not quite the talent.  A well-rounded backer.
(3) Greg Jones: A small middle linebacker, but Jones is a two-time All-American and a tenacious player.  He can feel where the ball is going and get there.
(4) Justin Houston: A pass rushing mold, but a big guy who can stop the run as well as Von.
(5) Kelvin Sheppard: the LSU Tiger loves to cover the run, but he is athletic enough to cover passing as well.

Secondary:
(1) Patrick Peterson (CB): the Eric Berry of this draft simply in terms of being the most NFL ready player.  He could cover NFL receivers right now, and had to a lot this year in Green and Jones.
(2) Jimmy Smith (CB): The second of a good Cornerback class.  Smith has talent rivaling Peterson, but his off the field issues have teams shying away.
(3) Prince Amukamara (CB): Another sure corner.  He may not be ready to step into a starting role the way Peterson is, but Prince will be a good fill-in for the nickel package.
(4) Brandon Harris (CB): He is a good bet to be a good cover corner.  Great speed and decent IQ.
(5) Jaiquawn Jarrett (S): the most complete safety that will be available in the draft.  He’s an explosive run defender who quickly makes his way up the field to engage ball carriers.

2011 NFL Mock Draft:
#1 Carolina Panthers: QB Cameron Newton (Auburn)
#2 Denver Broncos: DT Marcel Darius (Alabama)
#3 Buffalo Bills: LB Von Miller (Texas A&M)
#4 Houston Texans [from Cincinnati Bengals]: CB Patrick Peterson (LSU)
#5 Arizona Cardinals: WR A.J. Green (Georgia)
#6 Cleveland Browns: WR Julio Jones (Alabama)
#7 San Francisco 49ners: QB Blane Gabbert (Missouri)
#8 Tennessee Titans: DT Nick Fairly (Auburn)
#9 Dallas Cowboys: OT Anthony Castonzo (Boston College)
#10 Washington Redskins: G/C Mike Pouncey (Florida)
#11 Cincinnati Bengals [from Texans]: QB Ryan Mallet (Arkansas)
#12 Minnesota Vikings: QB Jake Locker (Washington)
#13 Detroit Lions: DE Da'Quan Bowers (Clemson)
#14 St. Louis Rams: DT Corey Liuget (Illinois)
#15 Miami Dolphins: QB Andy Dalton (TCU)
#16 Jacksonville Jaguars: DE J.J. Watts (Wisconsin)
#17 New England Patriots: DE Cameron Jordan (California)
#18 San Diego Chargers: DE Ryan Kerrigan (Purdue)
#19 New York Giants: OT Tyson Smith (USC)
#20 Tampa Bay Buccaneers: DE Adrian Clayborn (Iowa)
#21 Kansas City Chiefs: OT Gabe Carimi (Wisconsin)
#22 Indianapolis Colts: OT Nate Soldier (Colorado)
#23 Philadelphia Eagles: OG Danny Watkins (Baylor)
#24 New Orleans Saints: DE Aldon Smith (Missouri)
#25 Seattle Seahawks: DT Marvin Austin (North Carolina)
#26 Baltimore Ravens: Jimmy Smith (Colorado)
#27 Atlanta Falcons: OLB/DE Jimmy Houston (Georgia)
#28 Tennessee Titans [from Patriots]: QB Christian Ponder (Florida State)
#29 Chicago Bears: OT Derek Sherrod (Mississippi State)
#30 New York Jets: DL Muhammad Wilkerson (Temple)
#31 Pittsburgh Steelers: CB Brandon Harris (Miami Florida)
#32 Green Bay Packers: RB Mark Ingram (Alabama)

There isn't much to do

I've been slacking a little and I'd like to apologize.  Thank you to the people who have kept up reading even now when all hope appears lost.  You are troopers!