Monthly Contest Winners
December 2009
We were so inspired by your December entries that we had to select 2 winners. Here they are...
WINNERS BIO: Kyle Jones is a senior at Mariner High School in Everett, Washington. He plays offensive lineman and defensive lineman for the Marauders. Kyle was voted one of the team captains for his senior season by his teammates, an honor that he holds near and dear to his heart. Kyle's favorite sports team is the Linfield Wildcats of Linfield College (located in Oregon) because he plans to attend Linfield next fall, after graduating from high school. In his free time, Kyle enjoys listening to music, playing video games, and hanging out with friends and family.
For his winning response, Kyle has won a Home & Away Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters Cap. For his surprise gift, he has won the 017XT 'The Gamer' football glove to help him block and tackle along the line. Congratulations, Kyle!
QUESTION: It's hard to believe, but we are about to begin a new year!
What do you think was the most inspiring sports story of 2009? Why? …And, let us know why this story had an impact on you.
WINNING RESPONSE: The most inspiring story of 2009 is the story of Jake Olson. Jake was diagnosed with cancer in his eyes when he was only one year old. At that time, doctors had to remove his left eye but were able to save his right eye. Jake's cancer returned eight times during the first 12 years of his life, the most recent time returning so strong that doctors told Jake his right eye would soon need to be removed as well.
An avid USC fan, Jake's last wish before his eye surgery was to see the USC football team one more time. USC coach Pete Carroll invited Jake to one of their practices, and he was able to bond with all of the Trojan players and coaches. Jake got the attend USC practices and games, and he was invited into the Trojans locker room following their victory over Oregon State.
After Jake's surgery, he returned to Trojan practice where the players showed nothing but love and support for their newest family member, who could no longer see them but could definitely hear them.
This story is so inspirational because of how well Jake handled his tough situation. He did not (and does not) feel sorry for himself during his battle. He knew that he would never be able to see again, but he took this news in stride and considered it just another chapter in his life. When I heard this story it made me think about my own life, and the fact that nothing can be taken for granted. I must live life to the fullest because I never know when I may be struck with a challenge similar to the one Jake has faced.
December 2009
WINNERS BIO: Aaron Johnston is a junior at Darby High School in Darby, Montana. He plays football for the Tigers and is all over the field, playing Quarterback, Wide Receiver, Safety, Punt Returner/Kick Returner, and Punter. And, in the spring, Aaron runs track for the Tigers. When not on the football field or track, he enjoys watching the Texas Longhorns and spends his spare time hunting, fishing, and four-wheeling.For his winning response, Aaron has won a Home & Away Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters Cap. For his surprise gift, he has won the Cutters Naked Glove. Congratulations, Aaron!
QUESTION: It's hard to believe, but we are about to begin a new year!
What do you think was the most inspiring sports story of 2009? Why? …And, let us know why this story had an impact on you.
WINNING RESPONSE: In July 2009, a month before the 2009 Montana Class B Volleyball season, Miriam Bender went into surgery to take out a growth she had. The next day she was told that she had been diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer. A month later she started her senior volleyball season. Roughly every other week during the season, she would have to go through chemo-therapy treatments. The third game of the season (the first game after her second chemo treatment) she began wearing a bandana to cover up her hair loss. This caused constant staring, which was almost too much for her to handle. Every game she played in she had to fight to make it through the physical pain and also the emotional pain, knowing that everyone in the stands was wondering why she was wearing a bandana. Towards the end of the season, to make her feel more comfortable, the whole student body began wearing bandanas. She was able to finish out the season, playing in most games, and she was able to play in her team's last game of the season in the district tournament. At that final game, Miriam was acknowledged as an inspiration to many people that no matter how bad things get, it is important to continue to fight and move forward.
This is a story that is rare for people to witness. These stories are often shown on television or through different types of media, but most people are never personally affected by these stories. Being from a small town of 700 people, no one ever thought that something like this would happen. When Miriam was diagnosed with cancer, everyone assumed that she would not be able to play volleyball. However, she overcame many obstacles and was able to play in some matches during her senior year. Truly an inspiring story.
November 2009
WINNERS BIO: Brian Havrilla is from Willowick, Ohio and is a sophomore at Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin High School. He plays wide receiver on the football team for the Lions, and is considering playing baseball or running track in the spring. Brian likes watching the Cleveland Browns and Ohio State Buckeyes, and also enjoys watching the Arizona Cardinals and his favorite player, Larry Fitzgerald. For his winning response, Brian has won a Home & Away Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters Cap. For his surprise gift, he has received the Power Sleeve Trainer to help him train for all of the different sports he plays. Congratulations, Brian!
QUESTION: November is here...which means Thanksgiving!
When you celebrate the holiday, what athlete do you most wish could join you at your family's Thanksgiving meal? Why? ...And, as you go around the table expressing thanks, tell us what that athlete should be thankful for this season and why.
Happy Turkey Day!
WINNING RESPONSE: As the holidays come around each year, I naturally think about the past year and all that has happened in my life. I have been blessed with good health and a good family. To have an athlete join me at Thanksgiving would be a dream come true. If I had to choose an athlete, it would be Larry Fitzgerald of the Arizona Cardinals.
Fitzgerald is an athlete that has shown tremendous character throughout his career. He has used a sorrowful time in his life and turned it into a positive thing for many families. In 2003, Fitzgerald's mother passed away from breast cancer. Fitzgerald has become a community activist for Breast Cancer Awareness and is actively involved in fundraising. He has set a high standard of how athletes should use their celebrity status to promote good causes. I would like to emulate this behavior in my life so that people may look up to me the way that I look up to him. When asked what he is most thankful for, I believe Larry would say his family and I think he would be especially thankful for the time he was able to spend with his mother. Larry would likely also be grateful for the athletic ability he has been blessed with.
Larry Fitzgerald is a positive role model and would be the perfect athlete to join my family at Thanksgiving Dinner.
October 2009
WINNERS BIO: Marcus Smith is an 8th grader in Menomonie, Wisconsin. He stays very busy, participating in four sports! He plays 3rd base in baseball, guard in basketball, tailback in football, and runs track as a sprinter. During his free time, Marcus enjoys watching the Tennessee Titans - especially his favorite player, Chris Johnson. He also likes going to the track with his dad to improve his speed.For his winning response, Marcus has won a Home & Away Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters Cap. For his surprise gift, he has won a pair of Cutters' newest batting gloves, the 018E Endurance. Of course, Coach Joe Labuda is getting a prize, too: a GreatCatch Coach's Pack, Coach's Gloves, and a Cutters Cap...Congratulations, Marcus!
QUESTION: It's time again for you to nominate your coach.
Do you have a great coach? What separates your coach from the rest? How has your coach been a positive influence on you and your teammates, both on and off the field? Tell us a story that shows why your coach is the BEST.
WINNING RESPONSE: Hands down, no questions asked, Coach Joe Labuda is the most inspirational and passionate coach. Coach Labuda is the Head Coach at Menomonie High School in Menomonie, Wisconsin. Not only does he push us to become the best football players we can ever be every single moment, day in and day out, but Coach also helps mold us into the most genuinely caring individuals the world could ever hope for.
Possessing a fiery passion unmatched by any other, and an intensity and ferocity that can only be duplicated by his players, Joe truly loves the game of football with all his heart. Without Coach Labuda's guidance, it would not have been possible for the Menomonie Indians to bring home as many state championships as they have throughout the years.
As an example of the type of person Coach Labuda is, here is a story: One game, the Menomonie Indians were thrashing a state rival in our conference. Our team had the ball and was just running the ball to try to run out the clock, but our stud fullback took a handoff and got into the secondary with room to take it to the house. The upstanding human being that Labuda is, he marched intensely onto the field, clipboard broken at the maddening thought that his team would run up the score and embarrass an opponent. He sprinted out into the center of the field, and once our fullback had scored, he chewed him out and gave him a lesson on sportsmanship he will never forget. The whole team had to perform up-downs the next day in practice for a half an hour.
Joe loves to win. But, undoubtedly, he cares far more about the kind of people, citizens, and individuals his players become.
September 2009
WINNERS BIO: Tyler Laird is a junior at Arcadia High School in Arcadia, California. He plays cornerback and receiver for his high school team, the Apaches. Tyler enjoys rooting for LaDanian Tomlinson and the San Diego Chargers on Sunday afternoons, and he also likes to spend time with his family and play videogames.For his winning response, Tyler has won a Home & Away Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters Cap. For his surprise gift, he has won a GreatCatch so he can continually work on his hands. Congratulations, Tyler!
QUESTION: Of course you love your 'Madden NFL', 'MLB 09', 'FIFA Soccer', and other incredible video games. Now's your chance to create your own. What sport (or sports) would it feature? What games, rules, athletes, commentators, etc. would be included? Ocho Cinco instead of Madden as a commentator? The Dallas Cowboys play at your high school stadium? You get the point. Show us your creativity!
WINNING RESPONSE: I would create a video game that features the sport Slamball, which is a high-contact basketball game using trampolines. It is a very exciting sport that I think would be a great video game, featuring high-flying trampoline dunks and plenty of action.
The rules would be just as they are in the actual game, and the video-game player would be able to choose a commentator from a list of professional athletes, depending on what type of personality they want to call the action. The main feature of the game would be a mode in which you create a team and match up against other teams. At first, you would play easy "street games," eventually moving up the ranks to play professional Slamball teams that would feature professional athletes from every sport. As the team's ranking got higher, you would have the option to draft professional athletes to your team. In the end, you would battle it out for the Slamball championship. The game would also feature an exhibition mode, practice mode, dunk contest, and various mini-games.
August 2009
WINNERS BIO: George Kittle is a sophomore at Iowa City West High School in Iowa City, Iowa. He plays wide receiver and safety on the varsity football team, and also plays basketball during the winter. When not playing football or basketball, George loves watching the Oklahoma Sooners football team.For his winning response, George has won a pair of Cutters All-White receiver gloves, a Cutters Cap, and a Cutters T-Shirt. As his surprise gift, he will be able to build his own pair of gloves using the BYOG section of the Cutters website.Congratulations, George!
QUESTION: You may have heard about the Twitter controversy at football training camp. Should players be allowed to Twitter during practice? During games? Give us at least one reason why they should, and one why they shouldn't.
If teams came up with a tweeting or texting policy, what should the rules be?
And, if Twitter was allowed on the sidelines, which players or coaches would you most want to hear from?
WINNING RESPONSE: I have no problem with players using Twitter, but I think using it during practices and games is a bit excessive. Tweeting before and after practices and games is fine, but not during water breaks or halftime. I don't think taking a minute or two to write a sentence is that big of a distraction, but if half the team is busy tweeting during halftime, that takes away a couple of minutes of preparation time for the second half. In the NFL, every minute of preparation is critical.
With that being said, Twitter is great for fans to feel like part of the team, so it is a good way for players to connect with their followers. As long as there is no Tweeting during practices or games, they should be free to use it as much as they want. Some might worry about players giving away team secrets such as injuries or trick plays, but I don't think that would be a problem as long as players understand that giving away secrets would hurt the team. A simple threat of a $10,000 fine should take care of that problem.
It Twitter was allowed on the sideline, here are four people that I would love to hear from:
Peyton Manning - Very insightful with football jargon; also very entertaining.
Carson Palmer - If there was a rule that only one player per team could Tweet, then picking Palmer over Chad Ochocinco would create even more drama in Cincinnati.
Rex Ryan - He is becoming one of the more entertaining coaches to listen to. Very intense; defensive genius. It would be great to get inside his head on a Sunday.
Anquan Boldin - You gotta have "Q" Tweeting about how great Cutters Gloves are as he comes off the field after his latest TD catch.
July 2009
WINNERS BIO: William Barry is entering his junior year at Ascension Episcopal School in Youngsville, Louisiana. He will be part of the schools' first-ever varsity football team this fall; the team only has 19 players! Because there are so few players on the team, William will play both offense and defense -- cornerback AND wide receiver. In addition to football, William stays busy playing basketball and baseball for the Blue Gators. When not on the field or court himself, he likes watching the New Orleans Saints and the Carolina Panthers.For his winning response, William has won a Home & Away package, a Cutters Cap, and a Cutters T-Shirt. As his surprise gift, he has received a $25 iTunes Gift Card so he can make his own playlist for the season...Congratulations, William!
QUESTION: The right tunes can motivate your training and pump you up for a game. This month's challenge: Create a Playlist of the Top 5 songs for a specific player or team. For example, Brett Farve might have "Should I Stay or Should I Go" by The Clash as one of his songs, the Yankees could have "Mo' Money Mo Problems" by The Notorious B.I.G., the Raiders might have "Sunday Bloody Sunday" by U2 -- you get the idea. Unless it's obvious, make sure to briefly explain why each song fits for that player or team. ...Good luck!
WINNING RESPONSE: These songs represent the Detroit Lions and the season they went through in 2008, going 0-16:
* The Climb -- Miley Cyrus: I chose this song because it is about hard work, which is what the Lions need to put in if they want to win a game this year.
* Bad Day -- Daniel Powter: I chose this song because the Lions had a horrible season in 2008 but they cannot do any worse in 2009, so things are already looking up.
* Stronger -- Kanye West: This song represents the saying, "Whatever does not kill you makes you stronger." The Lions should be stronger in 2009 after going through a rough 2008.
* It's Not Over -- Daughtry: For the Lions, it is not over; they get to play another season.
* Tomorrow -- From the musical Annie: For the Lions, 2009 will be better than 2008.
June 2009
WINNERS BIO: Justin Saldana is heading into his Junior year at Damien High School in La Verne, California. He plays wide receiver on the Spartan football team, and also runs track -- competing in the 800 meters and the long jump. Justin also likes hanging out with friends and going to concerts. His favorite sports teams are the LA Angels of Anaheim and the San Francisco 49ers. Justin's favorite athlete of all time is former 49ers receiver Jerry Rice.For his winning response, Justin has won a Home & Away package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters Cap. For his surprise gift, Justin has won Cutters' NEW Power Sleeve Trainer™ to help him get ready for the upcoming football and track seasons. ... Congratulations, Justin!
QUESTION: ...Overpaid? ...Underpaid? ...What two professional athletes should have their salaries swapped? Why should he/she get more? Why should he/she get less? BONUS POINTS: Let us know how you'd break the news to them...Good luck!
WINNING RESPONSE: In my opinion, the most overpaid athlete is Steve Francis, formerly of the Houston Rockets and New York Knicks, among others. Francis was paid over $19 million this past season, and did not play in a single game. During the 2007-2008 season, he played in only ten games.
The athlete that he should swap salaries with is San Francisco Giants pitcher Tim Lincecum. Lincecum won the 2008 NL Cy Young Award, given to the best pitcher in the league. He currently is 12-3 with a 2.19 ERA and his 2009 salary is $650,000.
I would break the news to Steve Francis by hiring an airplane pulling a banner, simply saying, "Sorry, we switched your salaries."
May 2009
WINNERS BIO: Matt Talavera will be a senior at Iolani School in Honolulu, HI in the fall. He plays both football and basketball for the Raiders, and says that basketball is his favorite because of its up-tempo nature and because it is the sport he has been playing the longest. On the court, Matt plays Guard, and on the football field he is a Receiver. In his free time, he enjoys shooting hoops and throwing the football around, and also loves playing sports games on Xbox.For his winning response, Matt has won a Home & Away Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters Cap. For his surprise gift, Matt has won a pair of Training Gloves to help him with his summer training! Congratulations, Matt!
QUESTION: A Texas congressman recently said that the current football college Bowl Championship Series "is like communism -- you can't fix it", and has introduced a bill (The College Football Playoff Act of 2009) to change the process. Even President Obama prefers a playoff system. What league's playoff system do you think works the best? MLB's 8 teams, NFL's 12 teams, or NBA's and NHL's 16 teams? Why?
WINNING RESPONSE: The NFL's playoff system is one that rewards teams for their achievements in the regular season and should be implemented in the NCAA. This system would still place great significance on the regular season without condemning one-loss teams to futile bowl games.
The NFL provides the top two seeds in each conference (the AFC and the NFC) a bye in the first round, while teams finishing in places three through six must battle each other to play on. In order to be effective at the college level, the NFL's 12-team system would need to be expanded to an 18-team system. The expanded field would allow for the top six overall seeds to receive a bye in the first round, similar to what happens in the NFL.
The 18 teams in the playoff would consist of the regular-season champions from each of the 11 Football Bowl Subdivision (formerly Division I-A) conferences. The remaining seven spots would be given as "at-large bids," given to the best remaining teams regardless of conference affiliation.
This playoff system would allow the smaller conferences to prove that they can play with the bigger boys. In addition to these playoff games, schools that have not qualified for this tournament could still participate in other outside bowl games similar to the system that is in place today.
This system would allow teams that are peaking at the right time to possibly make an improbable run and perhaps take down an undefeated team. A tournament of this impartial nature would allow the National Championship to be decided on the field by the players, rather than in a room by a computer.
April 2009
WINNERS BIO: Josh Holecek is a junior at Klein Collins High School in Spring, TX and plays fullback for the Tigers. Football is by far his favorite sport because of the intensity.When not on the football field, Josh enjoys going to church, fishing, and playing sports with his friends. He also enjoys rooting for his hometown football team -- the Houston Texans.
For his winning response, Josh has won a Cutters Home & Away Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters Cap. For his surprise gift, Josh has won a pair of Cutters Training Gloves to use during summer weight-lifting! Congratulations, Josh!
QUESTION: Stadiums have become hotspots for dining. Pick a stadium, team, or even a specific player and create a dish in their honor. Name your dish, and let us know why that particular item suits the team/player, as well as why fans would like it. Extra points for including the recipe!
WINNING RESPONSE: The dish I would create would be a pasta dish, called Noodles de LeBron. This dish is named after Cleveland Cavalier LeBron James. The dish would be a spaghetti and meatball dish with the round meatballs sitting inside circles of pasta, simulating a basketball inside a hoop.
The element that would make this dish special is in how it would be served. The person serving the dish would put parmesan cheese in his or her hands and throw it up in the air, imitating LeBron's signature pre-game "chalk toss."
This dish would suit LeBron and the Cavaliers because it is a tribute to his awesomeness and pasta is a good carbo-load dish. The fans would think this dish is creative and fun because it represents the pre-game ritual of their star player.
February 2009
WINNERS BIO: Billy Leonard is a Junior at Bergen Catholic High School in Oradell, New Jersey. He plays wide receiver and safety on the football team and also runs indoor and outdoor track. During spring break, Billy visited some colleges where he may be on the track team.When Billy is not on the field or the track, he likes to play basketball, play video games, and practice the guitar. He also enjoys watching the Notre Dame Fighting Irish compete in football, basketball, baseball, and lacrosse.
For his winning response, Billy has won a Cutters Home & Away Package, a Cutters Cap, and a Cutters T-Shirt. For his surprise gift, Billy has won a Cutters 019X Pro-FitTM Golf Glove. Congratulations, Billy ....and Go Crusaders!
QUESTION: Football can be about a lot more than scoring touchdowns. Baseball can be about much more than hitting homeruns. Soccer can be about more than scoring goals. ...You get the point! Tell us about one specific sports experience that you participated in or observed that taught you an important life lesson. And, of course, tell us the lesson learned.
WINNING REPONSE: My high school, Bergen Catholic, has a proud tradition of successful sports teams. One of the most successful teams has been the golf team. They almost always go undefeated and are always favorites to win the league, county, and state championships. Coach Jim Jacobson was featured in Sports Illustrated's "Faces in the Crowd" and is one of the most successful coaches in all of high school sports.
In a non-league match against Glen Rock High School, a golfer for Bergen violated a rule which in league play would have cost him two strokes. However, because this was not league play, there was no rule saying that the two-stroke penalty had to be enforced. There are no officials in high school golf, and each golfer must keep track of his or her own score on the honor system.
At the end of the round, Coach Jacobson decided it was right to add the two strokes to the team's score, even though no one would have enforced it had he not added the strokes. Bergen Catholic lost the match by one stroke; the penalty turned out to be the difference between a win and a loss.
Coach Jacobson said that despite the numerous championships that he had won, he had never received more praise than he did for adding the strokes that day and taking the loss.
This experience taught me that it is more important to do the right thing than it is to win, even when no one is looking.
January 2009
WINNERS BIO: Neng Vang is a sophomore at Tartan High School in Oakdale, Minnesota. He likes to play pickup football, and is usually the wide receiver or cornerback. Neng surely enjoyed the Super Bowl, as the Pittsburgh Steelers are his favorite team.In his free time, Neng enjoys watching TV and hanging out with friends. He is involved with Boy Scouts and likes going on the troop camping trips because it typically involves a lot of time playing sports. As the winner, Neng has won a Cutters Home & Away Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters Cap. For his surprise gift, he has won a pair of Cutters "The QTM" football gloves... Congratulations, Neng!
QUESTION: The Super Bowl is here! What two teams will be in the Super Bowl, and what will the final score be? Tie-breaker: Who will be named the game's MVP?
WINNING REPONSE: Neng's entry was received on January 13th, well before the Super Bowl. He correctly guessed the two teams, the winner, and the MVP. Amazingly, he was only one point away from guessing the final score!
His winning entry:
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Arizona Cardinals.
Pittsburgh Steelers will win 27 to 24.
Santonio Holmes will win the MVP.
November 2008
WINNERS BIO: Nathan Miller is a sophomore at Garnet Valley High School in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania. He plays defensive back on the football team, and also plays baseball for the Jaguars. In his free time, Nathan likes to play sports, watch TV, and play video games. His favorite professional sports team is the Boston Red Sox, but he likes rooting for the Penn State football team on Saturdays. In fact, during the upcoming Winter Break, Nathan will travel to Pasadena, CA to watch Penn State play in the Rose Bowl!For being selected as the winner, Nathan has won a Cutters Home & Away Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters Cap. For his surprise gift, he has received a pair of Cutters 018R The ResponseTM batting gloves. We also awarded Coach Ricci for doing such a fine job by sending him a T-Shirt, a pair of Coach's Gloves, and Cutters GreatCatch. Congratulations, Nathan!
QUESTION: It's that time of year again to nominate your coach! ...Do you have a GREAT coach? Tell us how your coach has been a positive influence on you and your team...Good luck!
WINNING ANSWER: I currently attend Garnet Valley High School in Glen Mills, PA and play for head football coach Mike Ricci, who is also an English teacher at the high school. Coach Ricci has been the coach for more than 20 years, and the program has done nothing but improve during his time at the school.
Coach Ricci is an excellent coach, leading Garnet Valley to the state championship in 2007 and a league title this past season. Not only is Coach Ricci a great coach, teacher, and person, but he is also a phenomenal motivator and influencer. He teaches his players and students how to be good people, and the motto for the football team is Hard Work -- Selflessness -- Character. If one player commits an act against this motto, the entire team pays for it as a show of solidarity and the oneness of a team.
Coach Ricci has a coaching staff of over ten coaches that are at practice every day of the week, most of whom are volunteers with other full-time jobs. Each week, Coach Ricci picks one coach to make daily speeches on character themes. Some of these themes are hard work, selflessness, trust, character, toughness, and respect. There are also quotes written around the locker room such as, "If it is to be, it's up to me," and, "Do what you are supposed to do."
Without Coach Ricci, the Garnet Valley Football team would not be as good of a team, or as well respected, as we currently are.
October 2008
WINNERS BIO: Joe Glennon is a freshman at Westmont Hilltop High School in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. He plays football and basketball for the Hilltoppers, and is the leader of both teams as the quarterback for the football team and the point guard for the basketball team.Joe's favorite sports teams are the hometown Steelers and Penguins, and he also enjoys rooting for the University of Pittsburgh Panthers. In his free time, he enjoys hanging out with his friends and playing basketball.
For his winning response, Joe has won a Cutters Home & Away Package, a Cutters Cap, and a Cutters T-Shirt. For his surprise gift, he has won a pair of Cutters Training Gloves! Congratulations, Joe!
QUESTION: In case you haven't noticed, election time is here! If you could nominate any pro athlete for President, who would it be? Why?... Good luck!
WINNING ANSWER: If I could vote for any professional athlete to become the President of the United States, I would say that Hines Ward of the Pittsburgh Steelers should be the man. He treats everybody with respect, both on and off the field. Although I do not know him personally, he seems like he has great character and personality. He seems to always be smiling; even after he gets laid out by a defender or drops a pass, he still has a smile on his face.
It is tough to have success when you have always been on the losing end of things. Hines Ward has done the opposite; he's always been a winner. He was an All-State performer in high school in Georgia. Following high school, he was an All-American his senior year at the University of Georgia, and now he has been to the Pro Bowl four times as a member of the Steelers. America needs a winner.
America needs a president that has been through hard times; a president that can relate to the people. Hines Ward was born in South Korea. Although he only lived there until he was one year old, he has always faced discrimination. He was born to an African-American father and a Korean mother. Racially mixed Koreans are often discriminated against, and Hines was no different. Following his Super Bowl MVP in 2006, Hines went to South Korea and donated 1 Million dollars to his foundation, which helps and supports mixed-race children in South Korea.
In my mind, Hines Ward would make a great president of the United States.
August 2008
WINNERS BIO: Jimmy Semple is a sophomore at Land O Lakes High School in Land O Lakes, Florida. He plays wide receiver on the football team, and also runs the 800 in track for the Gators. When not on the field or the track, Jimmy enjoys working out and playing pickup football with his friends. He roots for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sundays, and his favorite player is Tom Brady. Looks like Jimmy will have to choose a new favorite player to root for this year!For his winning response, Jimmy has won a Cutters Home & Away Package, a Cutters Cap, and a Cutters T-Shirt. For his surprise gift, he received a pair of Cutters Naked™ Gloves! Congratulations, Jimmy!
QUESTION: Athletes love to endorse products, and we all love to buy them. Come up with a new product that a specific pro athlete should develop. ...A 'Brett Favre Time Machine' so that he can go back and play football? ...The 'Charles Barkley Golf Academy' so that he can teach his amazing swing? ...How about 'A-Rod's Love Potion'? ...You get the point. Part 2: Include a slogan and describe the television commercial. Big points for creativity (and humor, of course!)... Good luck!
WINNING ANSWER: Product: Chad Johnson Touchdown Dance Creator (computer program)
Slogan: "Score a touchdown and get down"
To market this product, I would use the following commercial:
Scene 1: Chad Johnson is sitting at a computer, with the camera behind him so all you see is the back of his head. Chad clicks the mouse, nods his head and says "yeah."
Scene 2: Chad catches the ball in the end zone for a touchdown and begins doing his newly created dance. Teammate T.J. Houshmandzadeh comes up to him and says, "Yo ocho-cinco, where did you come up with that one?" Chad replies, "With the new Chad Johnson Touchdown Dance Creator." As Chad walks away, T.J. says, "Wow, I need one of those."
July 2008
WINNERS BIO: Loc Tran is a senior at Braintree High School in Braintree, Massachusetts. He plays both offense and defense for the Wamps football team, as a receiver and defensive tackle. In addition to football, Loc plays lacrosse and lifts weights. When not on the field or in the gym, you can find Loc hanging out with friends.For his winning response, Loc has won a Cutters Home & Away Package (in team colors, of course!), a Cutters Cap, and a Cutters T-Shirt. For his surprise gift, Loc has won a pair of Cutters Training Gloves! Congratulations, Loc!
QUESTION: Which major team sport has the highest-performing athletes? Think power, agility, speed, endurance, mental strength, etc.: all of the qualities that make amazing athletes amazing. Why that sport? ...And, what position on that team represents the best all-around athlete? Why? ...Good luck!
WINNING ANSWER: Football contains the highest-performing athletes. All 22 players on the field hold different skills and assignments in order to either score a touchdown or stop the play. Football players must have the versatility to do different things asked of them. More importantly, football requires the most team effort out of any sport. If one player blows off an assignment, then the play usually dies. All eleven athletes must have the right alignment, assignment, and technique. Alignment and assignment are the mental characteristics needed for football. It takes a week of practice in order to learn new plays for the next game. The techniques players use require power, agility, speed, endurance, and mental strength. Although some of these qualities are more important than others at specific positions, all positions need a little of each quality to be a good player.
The players that represent the best all-around athleticism are cornerbacks. Cornerbacks need power to make good tackles, agility to follow the receiver, speed to outrun the receiver, endurance to cover the receiver play after play, and mental strength involved with reading the play and making the best decision. Although I am not a cornerback myself, they often get put down during film sessions because of the many responsibilities they hold on the field.
June 2008
WINNERS BIO: Dan Zanone will be a Senior at Old Tappan High School in Norwood, New Jersey. He is a Captain on the football team at Old Tappan, and also plays small forward for the basketball team. When not on the field or court, Dan enjoys rooting for the Oregon Ducks and Florida State Seminoles. He also likes playing golf, lifting weights, and working as a caddy at a local golf course.For his winning response, Dan has won Cutters Home & Away Glove Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters Cap. As his surprise gift, Dan is getting a Cutters Golf Glove...Congratulations, Dan!
QUESTION: Aaah, summer...Time for vacation! You have two weeks, an unlimited budget, and can go anywhere. Plan the ultimate sports vacation. One catch: You have to visit at least 3 countries!
WINNING ANSWER: With an unlimited budget, I would definitely have the ultimate sports vacation. There is an outstanding number of possibilities, but I would have to start out in Merceyside, England to watch the British Open, as the greatest golfers in the world play on one of its most pristine courses. Last year, Padraig Harrington won shooting 7 under par and walked away with a prize of $1.6 million.
My second stop on my dream trip would be to Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Here, I would watch the Little League World Series. Although I don't play baseball, I envy these kids because they have the opportunity to play in a tournament that is nationally televised on ESPN. With players from all over the globe, the intensity must be ridiculous.
Speaking of intensity, the last stop on my trip would be to Pamplona, Spain for the Running of the Bulls. This may not be considered an "official" sport, but with a 1,500 pound bull chasing me, I would be forced to use every muscle in my body to escape. Running with the bulls is something that I have always wanted to do.WINNERS BIO: Dan Zanone will be a Senior at Old Tappan High School in Norwood, New Jersey. He is a Captain on the football team at Old Tappan, and also plays small forward for the basketball team. When not on the field or court, Dan enjoys rooting for the Oregon Ducks and Florida State Seminoles. He also likes playing golf, lifting weights, and working as a caddy at a local golf course.
For his winning response, Dan has won Cutters Home & Away Glove Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters Cap. As his surprise gift, Dan is getting a Cutters Golf Glove...Congratulations, Dan!
QUESTION: Aaah, summer...Time for vacation! You have two weeks, an unlimited budget, and can go anywhere. Plan the ultimate sports vacation. One catch: You have to visit at least 3 countries!
WINNING ANSWER: With an unlimited budget, I would definitely have the ultimate sports vacation. There is an outstanding number of possibilities, but I would have to start out in Merceyside, England to watch the British Open, as the greatest golfers in the world play on one of its most pristine courses. Last year, Padraig Harrington won shooting 7 under par and walked away with a prize of $1.6 million.
My second stop on my dream trip would be to Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Here, I would watch the Little League World Series. Although I don't play baseball, I envy these kids because they have the opportunity to play in a tournament that is nationally televised on ESPN. With players from all over the globe, the intensity must be ridiculous.
Speaking of intensity, the last stop on my trip would be to Pamplona, Spain for the Running of the Bulls. This may not be considered an "official" sport, but with a 1,500 pound bull chasing me, I would be forced to use every muscle in my body to escape. Running with the bulls is something that I have always wanted to do.
May 2008
WINNERS BIO: Gordon Winchester is going into his junior year at Croatan High School in Newport, North Carolina. Gordon plays cornerback and wide receiver for the Croatan football team and is also a member of the golf team. Although the Croatan football team hasn't yet had a winning season, Gordon is hopeful that they will be able to turn it around this year!Gordon is a huge fan of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and hopes to attend Notre Dame after high school. His favorite athlete is former Notre Dame wide receiver and current minor league pitcher in the Chicago Cubs organization, Jeff Samardzija.
During his free time, Gordon enjoys playing golf, kayaking, and spending time with his younger brother, Jackson.
For his winning response, Gordon has won a Cutters Home & Away Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters Cap. As his surprise gift, Gordon has won a Cutters 019T C-TACKTM Tour Golf Glove to use as he plays golf throughout the summer! ...Congratulations, Gordon!
QUESTION: If you could have dinner with any 3 sports personalities in history, who would it be? Why? What would you talk about? ...Be creative - it can be anyone from any era!
WINNING ANSWER: I would have dinner with Knute Rockne, Lou Gehrig, and Jim Abbott. Knute Rockne was one of the greatest motivators ever. He was also a very entertaining football coach to watch. He had the ability to get his athletes to give it their all each and every time out on the field. I would ask him for ideas about how to help motivate my high school football team (we have won only four conference games in four years).
My other two choices, Lou Gehrig and Jim Abbott, both flourished when faced with adversity. Gehrig loved baseball and was completely dedicated to the game. When he first started feeling weakness from his sickness, he pushed himself to work harder than ever and became an inspiration to those around him. Jim Abbott, a former major league pitcher born with only one hand, also had great perseverance and determination, both critical qualities for any athlete. He never saw himself as handicapped and went on to pitch a no-hitter in the major leagues.
At the dinner, I would ask each of these athletes to speak with my team so everyone could learn from these great men. Motivation, dedication, and perseverance are important qualities of a successful athlete and person, and these three athletes lived those qualities.
April 2008
WINNERS BIO: Austin Koeninger is a Junior at Pendleton County High School in Falmouth, Kentucky. Austin plays quarterback for the Wildcat football team and is also a member of the basketball team. When not on the football field or basketball court, Austin can generally be found mowing lawns or lifting weights to get ready for the upcoming football season. In his free time, Austin enjoys rooting for the Kentucky Wildcats! For his winning response, Austin has won a Cutters Home & Away Package, a Cutters Cap, and a Cutters T-Shirt. For his surprise gift, Austin is getting a pair of Naked Gloves! Congratulations, Austin! Go Wildcats!QUESTION: In 2000, Tom Brady was picked in the 6th round of the Draft, as the 199th overall pick. Today he is arguably the most dominant and decorated players in the NFL. Is there another Brady amongst the '08 draftees? If so, who do you think and why?
WINNING ANSWER: I think that this year's Tom Brady will be Andre Woodson. Woodson was pick #198 overall in the draft, while Brady was pick #199. There are many similarities between the two QB's. Both have very strong arms, and both are somewhat mobile but are mainly pocket passers. Woodson and Brady both started multiple years of college ball in two of the top conferences in the country (SEC and Big 10) and both put up impressive stats.
Woodson was drafted by the Giants, where he is unlikely to see playing time behind Eli Manning. However, he will have the opportunity to beat former Kentucky teammate Jared Lorenzen for the backup position. It is possible that Woodson could get his first start due to another player's injury, just as Tom Brady did when Drew Bledsoe went down with an injury. Maybe, just maybe, Andre Woodson is the next Tom Brady.
March 2008
WINNERS BIO: Tyler Anderson is a sophomore at Guilford High School in Rockford, Illinois. He stays busy for the Vikings, playing football and soccer and running track. Tyler is a kicker and receiver on the football team, and he will attend some kicking camps this summer to further hone his skills. When not on the field or track, Tyler enjoys lifting weights and is a member of the student council. For his winning response, Tyler has won a Home and Away Package, a Cutters Cap, and a Cutters T-Shirt. For his surprise gift, Tyler has won a pair of Training Gloves, along with Cutters GreatCatch to help prepare him for football season. Congratulations, Tyler, ...and Go Vikings!QUESTION: Baseball is "America's Pastime" - a great game, of course. As much as we love the game, though, the stadium is pretty important. If you could design a dream stadium, what special features would it have? Use your imagination and come up with something unique. Creativity counts... Good luck!
WINNING ANSWER: If I were to design a baseball stadium, I would do my best to provide equality to each and every fan in the stands, whether they were front-row season ticket holder or a grandfather taking his grandson to his first game sitting in the nose bleed section.
First off, the seats would no longer be stiff and plastic. You would be seated in a La-Z-Boy Recliner with two cup holders and a pop-out table for holding food. Attached to the back of the seat directly in front of you would be a 12 inch, touch screen, flat panel TV. From this TV, you could view instant replays, catch up on other games going on, and order food and drinks without having to get up. Long lines at concession stands would be virtually eliminated!
Another feature in my new stadium would be that instead of stairs leading to everywhere there would be escalators and elevators. It would eliminate that scary feeling you get when you descend down steep, crowded stadium stairs.
For the VIP's at the stadium, there would be a special area. Rather than Box Seats, they would have Box Suites. The VIP's would be located in an exclusive hotel within the baseball stadium. Included with the room would be a personal chef, a pool, a sauna, a weight room, and a personal bar. The room would look right out onto the baseball field, giving you the best view in the stadium.
Overall, my dreams of a better stadium are possible, but pretty farfetched. Maybe in the future these dreams will become a reality!
February 2008
WINNERS BIO: Josh Daughtry is currently a sophomore majoring in Pre-Pharmacy at Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Georgia. When not studying pharmacy, Josh spends his time participating in nearly every intramural sport that Valdosta State has to offer. Josh's favorite intramural sport is football, but he also participates in softball, soccer, basketball, and water polo! For his winning response, Josh has won a Home & Away Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters Cap. For his surprise gift, Josh received a pair of 018R The Response batting gloves to help him during intramural softball season. Congratulations, Josh!QUESTION: 'Pimp My Ride?'... How about 'Pimp My Team'? What professional team is in greatest need of a makeover? We mean players, uniforms, stadiums, mascots, whatever -- you get it. Tell us why, and tell us the changes you would make. Good luck!
WINNING ANSWER: I would choose to pimp the Tampa Bay Devil Rays! The Devil Rays are the worst team in baseball, and when people go watch them, they have to sit in one of the worst parks in the Major Leagues. It's almost like sitting in a warehouse watching a high school team.
I would change the name of the mascot. Although Tampa Bay is associated with the ocean, facing the Devil Rays doesn't exactly strike fear in to the opponent. I would rename the team the Tampa Bay Barracudas. This still keeps with the ocean theme, yet this is a little more vicious name than the Devil Rays.
With personnel changes, I would basically just say to keep young talent instead of letting good young players get traded for past prime veterans. I would also like to bring in a solid pitching coach. I might even bring in a big name like Johan Santana for pitching and maybe a Jorge Posada to add experience and offense.
The stadium should be completely torn down and built somewhere else. It is Tampa Bay! I want to see palm trees and water in the background. I want to have an open air environment, not a warehouse. That way, if the team stinks you can still enjoy the game.
I would keep the uniforms the same color, because that is one of the few things the Devil Rays have done correctly.
January 2008
WINNERS BIO: Angela Thompson lives in Mabelvale, Arkansas, and works at the Arkansas State Hospital, where she has worked for 28 years! She enjoys watching NFL games, especially the Indianapolis Colts and she believes that no one thinks better on the field than Peyton Manning. Angela has written and published a book, and when not working she loves writing, doing crossword puzzles, and spending time with her family. For her winning response, Angela has won a Home & Away Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters Cap. As her surprise gift, Angela received a Cutters Polo Shirt along with a Cutters Beanie to help keep her warm during the rest of the winter. Congratulations, Angela!QUESTION: The Super Bowl is coming up! What two teams will be in the Super Bowl, and what will the final score be? As a tie-breaker, who will be named the game's MVP?
WINNING ANSWER: The Super Bowl will be the New England Patriots vs. the New York Giants, and the Giants will win 28 to 24. Eli Manning will be the game's MVP.
December 2007
WINNERS BIO: Ryan Fuller is a sophomore at Okeene High School in Okeene, Oklahoma. Ryan stays busy as a three-sport athlete for the Whippets. Ryan plays quarterback and safety on the football team, guard in basketball, and shortstop in baseball. When not on the field or court, Ryan enjoys playing Xbox, designing things using Photoshop, and hanging out with friends. For his winning response, Ryan has won a Home and Away Package in Columbia Blue, a T-Shirt, and a cap. As his surprise gift, Ryan has won a pair of Cutters GreatCatch and a pair of Cutters' exclusive Naked Glove, so he can begin preparing for next season! Congratulations, Ryan!QUESTION: Let's get into the holiday spirit! Choose any well-known holiday song and rewrite the lyrics with a sports theme. Let's see your creativity! (And, please remember to include the name of the tune so that we can sing along.) Good luck!
WINNING ANSWER:
Dashing through the season
On our way to the big game
O'er the teams we go
We're going all the way!
Gotta get that ring
Run all of our plays right
What fun it is to play and win
And hear the song tonight!
Oh! Cutters Gloves, Cutters Gloves, we wear them every game!
Oh what fun it is to win,
It's a blow out once again, hey!
Cutters Gloves, Cutters Gloves, we wear them every game!
Oh what fun it is to win,
We have to win this game!
November 2007
WINNERS BIO: Joey Zamberlan is a senior at Catholic Central High School in Steubenville, OH. He has played football throughout all four years of high school as an offensive and defensive tackle. Although Joey missed six games this season because of an injury, he was able to get healthy and play in the final two games of the season. Off the field, Joey is a member of the National Honor Society and participates in many community service projects. For his winning response, Joey has won a Home and Away Package, a Cutters Cap, and a Cutters T-Shirt. For his surprise gift, Joey has won a pair of 017LC Full-Finger Lineman Gloves and a Handwarmer so that he can continue to practice this winter! Congratulations, Joey!QUESTION: If you could be coached by anyone, and we mean anyone, who would you choose and why?
WINNING ANSWER: If I had the chance to be coached by any coach, I would have to choose my high school football coach, Coach Bahen. From the day I first walked into the weight room as an eighth grader preparing for my freshman season to the last time I walked out of the locker room after my final game, I always had the feeling of security in knowing that this man would look after me, educate me in the game and ways of life, and instill in me the characteristic gifts of determination, dedication, perseverance, and an overall hard-working attitude. On those hot August double sessions my weaknesses were weeded out and new morals were formed. Those gifts and morals that were taught to me through blood, sweat, and tears on that field will help guide me in any dilemma I may face in my years to come. For that, I am greatly indebted to Coach Bahen.
October 2007
WINNERS BIO: Levi Parker is a freshman at El Dorado High School in El Dorado, Kansas. He stays very busy as a three-sport athlete for the Wildcats. Levi participates in football as a cornerback, basketball as point guard, and baseball as a shortstop. When not on the field or court, Levi enjoys watching the LSU Tigers and the Kansas Jayhawks on TV. He also enjoys hunting, fishing, and hanging out with friends. For his winning response, Levi has won a Home & Away Package in his team colors, a Cutters Cap, and a Cutters T-Shirt! For his surprise gift, Levi has won a pair of Cutters "The Response" batting gloves and a roll of C-TACK Grip Tape for his bat! Congratulations, Levi!QUESTION: Your favorite team (high school, college, or pro) is in the championship game ...and they're on the verge of defeat. You are given 5 minutes to address the team. What would you say? This isn't just any pep talk, you can use music and/or video to make your point or inspire, and even bring in one guest...anyone. Let's hear your speech - turn the players' mindsets so that they can get out there and WIN!
WINNING ANSWER: Gentlemen, I have never met a winner that didn't expect to win. There are two things that you can always control; your effort and your attitude. Play with great effort and play with a positive attitude, and know that good things will happen if we make them happen.
You cannot be concerned about the outcome of this game; you cannot think about losing. You need to think about playing football and that the most important play is the next play, so let's execute that play and win on that play and we will gain momentum. Momentum is execution. Then and only then will we think about the next play.
We have been given this wonderful opportunity tonight to play football, so let's make the best of it. Always remember that you're not just playing for yourself. You are playing for your moms and dads, you are playing for your school, and you are playing for each other, as a football family.
Right now in this game we are behind, but that is the past and we are not playing for the past or for the future; we are playing for right now. We've got to stay in the now! Things are going to happen in the time remaining, both good and bad. The important thing is how we respond to what happens.
It is amazing how much a team can accomplish when nobody cares who gets the credit, when everybody just goes out and does their job. We know what to do, we know how to do it. It all comes down to who wants it the most. If you believe in your heart that we deserve to win, then let's get back out on the field and prove to those guys on the other side of the ball that we are better than they are, we're tougher than they are, and that we're willing to battle on every play. It starts with each and every one of us right now!
Let's go win this football game! Leave everything you have out there on that field!
September 2007
WINNERS BIO: Chuck Lamb is in his third year at Alfred University in Alfred, NY. He plays tight end for the Saxons, during his limited free time, Chuck enjoys playing NCAA 08 on XBox 360. Other than playing XBox, most of Chuck's time is consumed with class, football practice, lifting weights, and studying. For his winning response, Chuck has won a Home & Away Package (in college gray, of course), a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters Cap. For his surprise gift, Chuck has won a pair of 017X Pro-Fit Receiver Gloves in his team colors of Purple & Gold so that he can show his pride during practice. Congratulations, Chuck!!QUESTION: If you could change one rule in a sport, what would you change and why?
WINNING ANSWER: If I could change any rule in college football, it would have to be the rule that NCAA football players can only wear gray gloves. College football is all about pride. Being able to wear gear that matches your team colors is a great way to show your pride. However, the NCAA gray glove rule has made it nearly impossible to wear the gloves of your choice in a game. On another note, some people are extremely picky on the type of equipment they wear, especially gloves. Not only is it hard enough to find a pair of gloves you absolutely love, finding it in the color of gray makes this task even more daunting. Being a Division III football player, I'm solely playing for the love of the game, no scholarships involved or any type of perks except being able to extend my football career. At least let me express my pride for my team in my final four years of organized football! I know this rule is crucial for the refs to see things such as holding, but at least let us wear our team color, that way you can still see the glove contrast against the other teams' jerseys.
August 2007
WINNER BIO #1: Evan Kolasinski is in his freshman year at Mukwonago High School in Mukwonago, Wisconsin. He plays football for the Indians, where he plays on both sides of the ball, staying busy as runningback and defensive back. When football season is over, Evan will continue to stay busy as a part of the wrestling team and baseball team for the Indians. For his winning response, Evan has won a Home &Away Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cap. For his surprise gift, Evan was awarded 018P Cutters Pro Batting Gloves. Congratulations, Evan!QUESTION: We need a good laugh. Give us your best sports joke!
WINNING ANSWER: A first grade teacher explains to her class that she is a Cubs fan. She asks her students to raise their hands if they're Cubs fans, too. Not really knowing what a Cubs fan is but wanting to be just like their teacher, the students launch their hands into the air like fleshy fireworks. There is, however, one exception: A girl named Lucy who doesn't go along with the crowd.
The teacher asks her why she's decided to be different. "Because I'm not a Cubs fan," Lucy says.
"Then what are you?" asks the teacher.
"Why, I'm proud to be a Sox fan," boasts the little girl. The teacher is a little perturbed now, her face slightly red. She asks Lucy why she's a Sox fan. "Well, my mom and dad are Sox fans, so I'm a Sox fan, too."
The teacher is now very angry. "That's no reason!" she says loudly. "What if your mom was a moron and your dad was a moron? What would you be then?"
Lucy pauses, then smiles. "Why, then," Lucy says, "I'd be a Cubs fan."
WINNER BIO #2: Tyler McCasky is in his sophomore year at Ralston Valley High School in Arvada, Colorado. He plays tight end for the Mustangs, but unfortunately he is sidelined because of a knee injury that required surgery. Tyler is busy rehabbing his knee and hopes to be back in time for baseball season in the spring. In addition to playing football and baseball, Tyler enjoys snowboarding during the winter. For his winning response, Tyler was awarded a Home &Away Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cap. His surprise gift is Cutters GreatCatch, Cutters Training Gloves, and Cutters Grip Tape for his bat. Congratulations, Tyler!
WINNER BIO #3: Robert Keller is a stay-at-home dad in Park Forest, IL. He is married and has a 4 year old daughter along with two sons who are 3 and 1. Robert roots for the Bears on Sunday afternoons during the fall, and is optimistic about their chances this season. For his winning response, Robert has won a pair of batting gloves along with a Cutters T-Shirt and a cap. For his surprise gift, Robert has won a Cutters 019T C-Tack Tour Golf Glove! Congratulations, Robert!
July 2007
WINNERS BIO: Nate Dvorak is beginning his senior year at West High School in Iowa City, Iowa. He has been playing football for five years and plays wide receiver and defensive back for the Trojans. Nate participated in football camp this summer in order to prepare for the upcoming season. When not on the football field, Nate enjoys playing other sports and cooking. For his winning response, Nate was awarded a Home &Away Package, a Cutters T-Shirt, and a Cutters cap. His surprise gift is the Cutters GreatCatch, as well as the GreatCatch Coach's Pack so his entire team can benefit from the training device. In addition, Nate has won Cutters caps for the team! Congratulations, Nate!QUESTION: We love our sports movies. What athlete's life or story should be turned into a movie? Why? Who should play the main roles? If you were to create a role for yourself in the film, who would you play? Why?
WINNING ANSWER: This is an easy answer for me. It has to be the story of Ian Johnson and the 2006 Boise State football team. The way that game (The Fiesta Bowl) unfolded was something that is usually only seen in a movie, but it actually happened. Not only the last couple minutes of the game, but also the entire season leading up to that game (going undefeated, a WAC team making the BCS) and how the town of Boise rallied around the Broncos.
Then, what seemed like the meltdown of Boise State as Jared Zabransky threw an interception which went back for what seemed like Oklahoma's clinching touchdown. The movie would then have the trick plays, the proposal, and it would end at the wedding of Ian Johnson and his cheerleader girlfriend Chrissy. Here are some of the characters and the actors who will portray them:
Ian Johnson - Cuba Gooding, Jr.
Jared Zabransky - Carson Daly
Coach Chris Peterson (Boise State) - Richard Gere
Chrissy (cheerleader) - Brittany Murphy
Adrian Peterson - Kanye West
Coach Bob Stoops (Oklahoma) - Topher Grace
I am by no means an actor, but if I could play a role in the movie, I would choose the role of Vinny Perretta, the back-up wide receiver who threw an important two-point conversion pass in the fourth quarter.
I think this would be a great movie because the problem with a lot of sports movies is that the plays run in the movies are so unrealistic, but the things that actually happened in this game would fit right into a Hollywood script.
June 2007
WINNERS BIO: Logan Henderson will be a Senior at Pocatello High School in Pocatello, Idaho. He is a DB who has been playing football since 4th Grade (!), and Logan is also in Track &Field. We know what he's doing this summer: TRAINING. For his winning response, Logan was awarded a Home &Away Package, a Cutters t-shirt, and a Cutters cap. His surprise gift is Cutters Training Gloves, Cutters GreatCatch, and Cutters Bicep Bands....Congratulations, Logan!QUESTION: Hit the gym, or sit by the pool. Go for a run, or hang out with friends. Summer is approaching and it may be tempting to chill rather than train. Let us know the top 5 things you can tell yourself to get motivated! How do you balance free time and disciplined training? Share your tips.
WINNING ANSWER: 1st - I always think of my goals, and what I want to achieve, like a state championship.
2nd - I can lift with my friends who work hard and will push me to become better.
3rd - I think of all the friends and family that support me and cheer me on.
4th - I reward myself after working hard.
and 5th - Learn to enjoy your training.
Think of the time you have this summer as a glass jar; you can only fill it so much. Then, think of your priorities as rocks and the things you'd rather be doing as a cup of sand. When you pour the sand in the jar, first there is no room to fit all of the rocks. But when you put the rocks in first, the sand will fill in the cracks and fits in the jar. If you live by this principle, your time will go far.
May 2007
WINNERS BIO: David Hitchman will be entering his junior year at Bear River High School in Grass Valley, California. A wide receiver and safety, David has been playing football for seven years, and is at the University of Nevada's football camp this summer. For his winning response, David was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters t-shirt, and a Cutters cap. His surprise gift is Cutters GreatCatch to use in summer training, and David's varsity team will get a full GreatCatch Coach's Pack so that they can benefit from this top football training device. We're also throwing in Cutters caps for his entire team... Goooooo Bruins! And, congratulations, David!QUESTION: In case you haven't noticed, Reality TV is bigger than ever. If you could create the ultimate sports reality show, what would it be? Tell us in detail. If there was a winner on your show, what would the grand prize be? If there was a host on your show, who would it be? ...You get the picture; you can do anything. Don't forget: big points for creativity!
WINNING ANSWER: Reality TV with a sports twist would have to consist of the ultimate game...... FOOTBALL!! A huge percent of the population plays and loves football and to combine it with a fun reality show on TV would be awesome. The show would have to be located at the amazing Aloha Stadium in beautiful Hawaii, USA. The setting is awesome: beach, sun, and a sweet stadium played in by only the best.
The contestants would be high school football players from around the country (10 contestants), selected through a mail- in interview process. Each selected contestant would get an NFL player of their choosing as their teammate. The contestant would then get a matching jersey of the NFL player's team with his/(maybe her) name and number on the back.
Next, the games would begin: Each contestant and NFL star would compete against the other pairs. They would start with a game of three '"fly's up" against a randomly selected other pair. Win three times, and move on, if not, you're out. After, they would have to compete in a football related obstacle course consisting of throwing at targets, catching balls, and doing various hurdles and sprints. This event would be timed and ran at the same time as another pair. The two slowest times would be eliminated. The final three teams would be quizzed on NFL events and history. The first two teams to get five questions right move on to the finale. The last event to crown the champion would be a game of two on two (flag), first team to three, wins and is grand champion.
At the conclusion of the show, the winner is awarded three tickets to the upcoming Pro Bowl and their new jersey is autographed by their NFL teammate. Their final prize would be, of course, a Cutters Home &Away package of gloves.
Lastly, the hosts of the show. The first and main host of the show would have to be the great Deion "Prime Time" Sanders, who is the best shutdown, speed corner of all time. A cocky, fun, and football-smart guy who would bring life to the show. The second and last host of the show is none other than my favorite player of all time, Jerry Rice. Jerry and Deion on one show would be awesome; they've been matched up throughout both of their careers, fighting it out on the gridiron and it would be fun to have them both part of the show. Most of all, Sanders and Rice are both pro bowl guys who would fit perfectly into the environment and atmosphere of one amazing show.
April 2007
WINNERS BIO: An 8th grader at Aurora Middle School in Ohio, Alex Arnold plays football and lacrosse. When not playing or watching sports, Alex likes to hang out with his friends. For his winning response, Alex was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The "surprise" gift? Well, given that he's a wide receiver, we just had to equip him with Cutters GreatCatch and a pair of Naked™ Gloves. Congratulations!QUESTION: What is the biggest sports achievement in history? Why? ...And, tell us what inspires you about this achievement.
WINNING ANSWER: Even though I am not a baseball player myself, the greatest sports achievement of all time is no contest. I believe the greatest sports achievement in history was Jackie Robinson being the first African American to play in Major League Baseball. This alone is an enormous feat; a person would have to be both extremely mentally and physically strong to be able to play through all of the racial ideas going around at the time. Whenever he would come onto the field, he would have to endure people yelling and taunting him, even people spitting at him. Jackie Robinson has also had countless achievements and awards in his career, winner of the Sporting News Rookie of the Year and the first MLB Rookie of the Year Award. He was also inducted into the MLB Hall of Fame in 1962 and was a member of six World Series teams.
Jackie Robinson's achievements have inspired me in many aspects of my life. Robinson's determination and courage in competing in a previously all white major league sport is unbelievable. He has shown me that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. Most people in 1947 would never have thought that an African American person would ever become an extraordinary baseball player. Robinson proved all of them wrong and has inspired me greatly to keep trying at everything I do. Even if someone does not believe in you, or if people say it can't be done, you can still accomplish it no matter what other people say.Robinson being the first African American to play in Major League Baseball. This alone is an enormous feat; a person would have to be both extremely mentally and physically strong to be able to play through all of the racial ideas going around at the time. Whenever he would come onto the field, he would have to endure people yelling and taunting him, even people spitting at him. Jackie Robinson has also had countless achievements and awards in his career, winner of the Sporting News Rookie of the Year and the first MLB Rookie of the Year Award. He was also inducted into the MLB Hall of Fame in 1962 and was a member of six World Series teams.
March 2007
WINNERS BIO: Kennedy Tillman of Raleigh, North Carolina is a junior at Wigsfield High School. This past season was his second as wide receiver for the Wolverines, and when not playing football, Kennedy also likes to play basketball. For his winning response, Kennedy was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The "surprise" gift? Two of Cutters' newest innovative products: The Naked Glove™, and Cutters GreatCatch -- the ultimate set for a receiver... Congratulations!QUESTION: Aren't you ready for Spring Break? If you could create the ultimate sports vacation, where would you go? What would you do? It can be anywhere, but here's the catch: you need to take your mother, and you need to make sure that she has a great time, to
WINNING ANSWER: The ultimate sports vacation would be in Miami Beach, Florida to attend a football camp. But it wouldn't just be any camp -- it would allow Mom to design the colors and logos for a professional football team. She would also get to enjoy all of the pampering a pro player would get through massages and bone soothing body rubs. She would also get time in the hot tub to help rejuvenate her body.
Now that mom is taken care of, those who attended the camp will receive the best football experience ever know to man. They will start by getting an authentic jersey and cap based on their favorite team and player. They will get to try on uniforms and helmets, and get to go one-on-one with the player of their choice. After that, they will go on tour through Dolphin Stadium and the University of Miami Hurricanes stadium, and get the chance to run the field. While you're doing that, your mom will be sitting in the luxury box seats enjoying the lean cuisine of her choice and style. After all of these activities, the attendees will be able to pig out in Miami's best "all you can eat" buffet.
To end the trip, parting gifts will be $100 gift cards to NFL shop.com and a lifetime supply of Gatorade or Powerade -- your choice of flavor. Your Mom will get an exact NFL jersey of the one she created, helmet included. She will also get a signed team game ball from the team of her choice.
February 2007
WINNERS BIO: Tim Koenig is a sophomore at St. Xavier High School in Cincinnati, Ohio. He has played on the O-Line for 2 years, and when not playing football he likes to work out, bowl and is a civil war reenactor. How cool is that?! For his winning response, Tim was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The "surprise" gift? Cutters 017LC Full-Finger Lineman Gloves, AND Cutters 017LH Half-Finger Lineman Gloves! Congratulations, Tim ...and Go, Bombers!QUESTION: Tiki Barber is retiring and will next show his talents as a broadcaster. Who would you like to see as a sportscaster, who isn't one already? Why? What sport(s) would they cover? Would he/she have a co-anchor? If not just an individual, who would be the u
WINNING ANSWER: I think when Peyton Manning retires, he would be a great sportscaster. This is a man who knows everything about the sport of football. He's able to read and dissect a defense in the 30 seconds he has to snap the ball, with all kinds of pressure bearing down on him, mental and physical fatigue, and out of the few inches he can see out of his visor, so think of what he'd be able to point out when he's sitting in a comfortable chair high up above the field with no pressure what so ever. His career might be limited to football, but being such a natural athlete, I'm sure he'd be able to catch on to any sport in no time at all. And just like Peyton works with his center, Saturday, on reading a defense, he would not need but could do good with the help of one of his good friends, Tom Brady. Both Super Bowl quarterbacks with many years in the world's top sports league the two of them would be able to educate the occasional fan or intrigue the super fan. These may seem like typical choices, but you have to give credit where credit is due, and who better than Peyton and Tom.
January 2007
WINNERS BIO: Caleb Dodge of Callaway, Nebraska is in 6th Grade at Arnold Public School. Being an active guy, he plays football, basketball, and baseball, and also likes riding his dirt bike. For his winning response, Caleb was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The "surprise" gift? A pair of Cutters newly designed 018P Batting Gloves and C-TACK™ Grip Tape. GREAT prediction, Caleb... Congratulations!QUESTION: The Super Bowl is in the air.
* (1) What two teams will be in it?
* (2) Predict the final score.
* (3) Tie-Breaker: Who will be the MVP?
WINNING ANSWER:
* (1) Bears vs. Colts
* (2) Colts 27, Bears 17
* (3) MVP: Peyton Manning
December 2006
WINNERS BIO: Phil Lombardo is in 9th Grade at Cleveland St. Ignatius High School in Ohio. A busy guy, he plays football and runs track. Phil also values doing community service with his school, like working with the homeless and helping underprivileged children. For his winning response, Phil was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The "surprise" gift? Well, to keep him warm on the sideline he's getting a Cutters Hand Warmer, and to help him prepare for track season, we're outfitting Phil with Cutters Training Gloves. Congratulations!QUESTION: It's Bowl season... college football fever! What do you think is the ultimate college sports town? Why? The most spirit? The greatest stadium? Die-hard fans? The best team? Anything else? Let us know why your choice should win!
WINNING ANSWER: Imagine 110,000 screaming Ohioans packed into just 101,568 seats. They're taunting you, even scaring you, all to support their beloved Buckeyes. Not a thing in the world could be more important at the time. Then all of a sudden, the clock strikes zero and the game's over. Defeat rushes over the opposition, and victory rushes over the home team. After the game, a family unites. It's the Columbus family. A close-knit family whose parents are Buckeye's Sports. It's not a great stadium that makes Columbus the Heaven of college sports. Nor is it the die-hard fans, great traditions, or even the absolute on-field dominance. What makes Ohio's capital so great is a blend of all four.The formal name is Ohio Stadium, but most refer to it as "The Shoe". It was completed in 1922, which makes it one of the oldest stadiums in the country. Its 101,568 seats make it the fourth largest in Division 1-A college sports, but the noise levels always seem to rank number one.Whenever an Ohio State fan gets a cut, they bleed scarlet, like everyone else. The difference is that a true Buckeyes fan's blood also has a touch a gray. Nowhere else is the devotion so true. An Ohio State fan thinks of nothing else except their Bucks. Every game is sold out. Every parking lot is filled as well. All lots are filled with hard core fans who tailgate up until game time, many of whom don't even go to the game, but watch it in their RV. The loyalty is truly unparalleled.I agree that other places have traditions that are older and bigger than those of Ohio State University's, but none are more recognized. The ones I'm talking about all link back to the Best Damn Band In The Land. The Buckeye faithful always cheer, but no cheer is better than Hang On Sloopy. No matter where a Buckeye fan is, or what they're doing they always can find time to hum the tune. This song though, might just have to take a backseat to the one and only script OHIO. There really is no greater joy than to see, in person, the four cursive letters sprawled across the field. And to top it all off, one lucky tuba player gets to do the sacred "dotting of the I".Though the Buckeyes men's and women's basketball teams are starting to improve, they will never match the dominance of Ohio State football. Over the years, the Buckeyes have accumulated seven national titles, and are hoping to make it eight on January eighth. Columbus is the Mecca of college athletics. The Buckeyes call it home sweet home. The visitors call it Hell, and Ohioans call it the heart of O-H-I-O!
November 2006
WINNERS BIO: Max Grimard is a freshman at the University of Florida, where he plays intramural flag football. He was a wide receiver in high school, and - when not tossing the rock - Max likes to hang out with friends, play video games, and go to movies. For his winning response, Max was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The "surprise" gift? Cutters' newly introduced, redesigned 019T C-TACK Tour Edition Golf Glove. Just think about playing a round in that beautiful Florida sunshine. Congratulations!QUESTION: Who has been the biggest breakout football star so far this year? Who has surprised and impressed you the most in the first half of the season? Why?
WINNING ANSWER: For me, New Orleans Saints rookie wide receiver Marques Colston has to be one of the NFL's premier breakthrough players. Picked 250 spots behind Reggie Bush, Colston nevertheless has solidified himself as the team's impact rookie, and at a position where veterans like Joe Horn have held for several seasons. Moreover, Colston does not name a large Division 1-A powerhouse like Nebraska, Michigan, or Florida State his alma mater, but Hofstra. Colston's ascendance as a big time playmaker in the NFL is not only remarkable, but also spectacular to watch.
October 2006
WINNERS BIO: John Michael Mayo is a senior at Pikeville High School in Pikeville, Kentucky. Having played football for 8 years, he is a Quarterback and Middle Linebacker. John's hobbies include baseball, weight lifting, and running. For his excellent winning response, he was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The "surprise" gift? Well, since the Panthers have such an outstanding coach, we are outfitting Coach Mike Jackson in Cutters Coaches Gloves, a Cutters polo shirt, and a Cutters briefcase. Congratulations, John! And, .Go Panthers!QUESTION: Do you have a GREAT coach? Tell us how your coach has been a positive influence on you and your team.
WINNING ANSWER: A team is often defined by their coach, for he is the face of the entire group. If a team has a reputation for being classless and unsportsmanlike, it is most always a direct result of the team's coach. Likewise, if a team is known for its discipline, hustle, and overall prestige, the team's coach is the one who deserves the credit. I have been on teams throughout my career that have been coached by great men, but none of those men compare to my high school football coach, Mike Jackson.
Coach Jackson came to Pikeville High School to coach my football team from Oldham County High School in 2005. From the moment he introduced himself to the team, all of us could tell things were going to be different. Under our former coach, we had a great deal of success; we had just won a regional championship the year before. However, our former coaching staff allowed us to take the "easy way out" of most things. We weren't pushed like we should have been, and we didn't reach our full potential as a result. Coach Jackson changed all of that. We began a rigorous weight training program that not only made us stronger and more explosive, but it also instilled in us a sense of self-motivation and toughness. We began to come together as a team, and are now one of the strongest teams in school history.
Coach Jackson's influence didn't end once practice ended. When some of our players began having problems in the classroom, he started the study program FACTS (Football And Classroom To Success). Players with normally poor grades began to develop proper study habits, and their report cards began to drastically improve.
Mike Jackson is a great family man who has served as an unmatchable role model for the young men he has coached. He not only strives to make his players great football players, but great young men.
September 2006
WINNERS BIO: Myles Potter plays wide receiver at Davidson College in Davidson, North Carolina. When in high school, Myles was a 3-sport athlete, playing football, basketball, and baseball -- as well as being his class valedictorian! Now a college sophomore and chemistry major, Myles remains a busy guy who thrives on being active with school, football, running, and working out.QUESTION: If you could have any one professional added to your team (player, coach, whomever), who would it be? Why? What would you say to them to get them to come?
WINNING ANSWER: If I could have one professional athlete added to my team it would be Brett Farve. Now, critics would wonder why in the world anyone would want a player who is on the downside of his career, soon to be in retirement. And my response to them would be that it is not about how good one is, it's about their dedication and love for the game.
I play wide receiver for the Davidson College football program, a Division 1-AA non-scholarship team in the Pioneer Football League. To play at a college such as this, in which no money is given towards your tuition and the history is not always a winning season, one is not necessarily a top athlete across the nation. However, it takes -- more than anything -- a true love for the game.
With Farve soon to be entering retirement, we all know and honor his dedication to the great game of football. After remaining in the League for an extensive amount of years, Farve has shown a great deal of commitment towards football. For his love for the game, I could not pick a better candidate to play here at Davidson College. To convince Farve to join my team I would tell him it is a wonderful opportunity to continue playing the game he so passionately loves with a wonderful group of athletes who share the same love for football.
Farve would not only be a perfect teammate, but he would also add loads of talent to our squad. With his great arm and on-field vision, I would hopefully touch the ball numerous times at the receiver position (Of course, I would not drop any balls because I play with nothing but Cutters receiver gloves!).
Many athletes these days are too concerned with the economics involved in playing sports. Although it takes much time and dedication to reach a professional level for pay, too many are concerned primarily with how much money they make. I feel Farve is one of the few still dedicated to football for the game itself. For this, I would love to have Brett Farve on my football team.
August 2006
WINNERS BIO: Drew McGeary is in 6th Grade at Ahern Middle School, in Foxborough, Mass. He plays running back for the Foxborough Warriors, and also likes baseball and basketball. An avid sports fan, Drew's favorite teams to watch are the Texas Longhorns, and the New England Patriots, of course! For his excellent winning response, he was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The "surprise" gift? Drew's entire football team will be outfitted with Cutters Bicep Bands and Cutters Caps. Congratulations!QUESTION: It's time for the X Games. Don't you think football and baseball should be represented? Create and describe an Extreme Sport version of football or baseball -- the rules, the gear, the place, the players, ...whatever you imagine.
WINNING ANSWER: My X-Games version of baseball would be Rollerball. You play on a baseball field shaped half-pipe and the players used rollerblades for fielding batting and base running. Same rules as baseball but; there are no foul balls, a homerun is out of the half-pipe but the fielders can skate up the side and rob it in mid-air, lastly instead of the winner being the team with the most runs in the end, its the team that gets 20 people all the way around the bases wins which means there is no inning limit and a game can be over in a couple of minutes. That is the game of Rollerball.
July 2006
WINNERS BIO: Chris Englade is entering his sophomore year at Redemptorist High School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. A serious baseball player since age 6, he is a pitcher and plays 3rd, 2nd, and short. As well as playing for his school team and a national travel team, Chris is on the Louisiana Elite during the summer. When not playing ball, Chris likes to work out, fish, and hunt. For his excellent winning response, he was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The "surprise" gift? Chris will be amongst the first to get Cutters' soon-to-be released 'The Response' and newly designed 'Cutters Pro' batting gloves. Congratulations!QUESTION: Want to hear something funny? ...We do. Submit your favorite sports joke.
WINNING ANSWER: There once were two best friends named Bob and Earl. They were two of the biggest baseball fans in America. Their entire adult lives revolved around baseball. Bob and Earl discussed baseball history in the winter, and they examined every box score during the season. They went to over 60 games a year. They even agreed that whoever died first would try to come back and tell the other if there was baseball in heaven.
One summer night, Bob passed away in his sleep after watching a Yankee victory earlier in the evening. He died a happy man.
A few nights later, his buddy Earl awoke to the sound of Bob's voice from beyond.
"Bob is that you?" Earl asked.
"Of course it me," Bob replied.
"This is unbelievable!" Earl exclaimed, "So tell me, is there baseball in heaven?"
"Well, I have some good news and some bad news for you. Which do you want to hear first?"
"Tell me the good news first."
"Well, the good news is that there is baseball in heaven, Earl."
"Oh, that is wonderful! So what could possibly be the bad news?"
"You're pitching tomorrow night."
June 2006
WINNERS BIO: Elias Grant from Salina, Kansas is entering 8th Grade at Lakewood Middle School. A true athlete, Elias is into football, baseball, golf, tennis, and wrestling. Future NFL star? Well, he's on his way by playing running back and safety, and being a very knowledgeable sports fan! For his winning response, Elias was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The "surprise" gift? We had to make sure that Elias has the best gear for all of his activities, so he also got Cutters 018C Combo Batting Gloves, 020 Weight Lifting Gloves, and our newly designed, soon-to-be-released 019T Tour Edition C-TACK ™ Golf Glove. Congratulations, Elias!QUESTION: Summer is here! You have one week, no budget, and can go anywhere. Plan the ultimate sports vacation.
WINNING ANSWER: This trip is going to be the sweetest trip taken by any sports fan ever! On my first day, I would go to the Louisville Slugger bat museum and factory. Then, the next day, I would travel to Canton, Ohio and go to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. I would see all my favorite players' stuff. On the third day, I would get a private jet and sweet cars that went really fast and I would go shopping for one day at the biggest sports stores across the nation. On the fourth day, I would travel to South Bend, Indiana and see the College Football Hall of Fame. I would spend the night at the nicest hotel and then get up and have a huge tail-gating party with old famous football players, and then go see Notre Dame play Michigan. I would be on the sideline to watch the Fighting Irish win! Then, I would travel to Denver, Colorado and see the Chiefs beat the Broncos. I would sit in the Chiefs' owner's box. And that is my ultimate sports fan vacation!
May 2006
WINNERS BIO: Matthew Sopiars is a recent grad from Wesclin High School in Trenton, Illinois. A football player, Matthew is headed to Illinois College to play receiver and d-back. When not on the gridiron, he works out, runs track, and hangs out with his girlfriend. For his winning response, Matthew was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The "surprise" gift? Well, because he?s so serious about training, Matthew is getting a pair of Cutters Weight Lifting Gloves. And, to gain some points with his new teammates at Illinois College, we?re sending caps and bicep bands for the entire team! Congratulations, Matthew!QUESTION: If you could sit down with any sports personality in history and have him/her answer any one question, or tell you any one story, what would it be? Why?
WINNING ANSWER: If I could sit down with any sports personality and ask about a story, then I could choose from many great athletes and hear a great response. One athlete that came to mind was John Elway.
Now, most people would probably ask John Elway about all of his records, his great high school career, or his 5 super bowls. But, when I think of John Elway, "the play" always comes to mind.
With the University of Cal leading 19-17 late in the fourth quarter, John Elway led Stanford down the field, converting a 4th-and-17, setting his team up for the go-ahead field goal. The kicker put the Cardinals up 20-19 with only a few seconds left in the game, setting up Elway to be the hero and the Stanford Cardinals to continue their outstanding season.
The Cal bears received the kick, in need of a miracle to win the game. The Bears used 5 laterals (some who argue were illegal forward passes) to weave past Stanford defenders, putting the Bears in the end zone with no time left. What caused even more dispute was that the Stanford band rushed the field, thinking the game was over, causing a hysterical ending to the game. The Cal weaved through the band and into the end zone, sending the place into a frenzy. In the end, the Cal Bears won the game 25-20.
I just have always wanted to ask John Elway what it was like to sit there and watch the ending to this game unfold. The ending was so controversial, so unexpected, like it was out of a movie or something. Elway had just pulled off one of the greatest comeback drives in football history ? just to be spoiled by one of the craziest, luckiest plays in football history.
I just can't imagine the feeling Elway had. I'm sure he felt let-down, angry, exhausted, and sad. Although John moved on to accomplish many things in his great career, I am sure he probably won't forget about that game for the rest of his life, and neither will I.
April 2006
WINNERS BIO: E. Spencer Hays of Marietta, Georgia has been playing football for one year, as a running back and safety for The Walker School. He is also into soccer, having played for the past 10 years and recently making it to the state finals. When not involved in sports, Spencer plays guitar in a garage band with four of his buddies. For his winning response, Spencer was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The "surprise" gift? A pair of Cutters' newest Arm Sleeves, made with C-TACK for a secure hold on the ball?Wait ?til you try them! ? GO WOLVERINES!QUESTION: We all love our sports teams. Do we really love their mascots? What team is in greatest need of a new mascot? What would you name it? What would it be? Why?
WINNING ANSWER: The team that is in the greatest need of a new mascot is the University Of Hawaii's Rainbow Warriors. It seems to me that when The University of Hawaii was deciding on what was to be their mascot; they had two committees, one to decide on the most fearsome mascot, and one to pick the most uninspiring name possible. They then combined the two committees? decisions with the resulting mascot, The Rainbow Warriors.
With this, the question of what to do about it emerges. If I were to make the decision, I would change the mascot to something significant to the area, yet at the same time fearsome and honorable.
After researching Hawaiian history, the most suitable mascot, in my opinion, would be the Night Marchers. The Night Marchers are, according to Hawaiian legend, ghosts of ancient warriors that travel in large groups around battlefields of old. I chose this as the prospective new mascot, because it is relevant to the area, and incorporates the region's past/lore in it. The mascot also, due to its warrior background, has fierce implications.
Now that the mascot has been named, it needs to be properly depicted. I would design the mascot as being in traditional Hawaiian garb most notably wearing an Ikaika, or traditional Polynesian war helmet, (the Polynesians were the indigenous people of Hawaii) complete with a torch.
March 2006
WINNERS BIO: Charlie Benandi is a sophomore at Northside Prep in Chicago. He is one busy guy: Charlie is a centerfielder in baseball, a quarterback in football, and plays basketball and golf as well. For his excellent winning response, he was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The "surprise" gift? We?re taking care of all of his glove needs: A Cutters Golf Glove, Cutters Pro Batting Gloves, and Cutters Grip Tape. Congratulations!QUESTION: Now's your chance to build the ultimate athlete. You can join individuals' talents and strengths to come up with the ideal combination.
WINNING ANSWER: I am going to build a pitcher for baseball, but who also would be a very good hitter.
The head of this person would have to be Greg Maddux. Every time I have seen the guy pitch, whether it was for the Cubs or the Braves, he always seems to keep his cool and not let anything in the game bother him. He has been very effective most of the time, and a lot of pitchers that I have seen falter has been because they did not focus well on the game.
The heart of this pitcher would have to be none other than Frank Thomas. A career haunted by injury this man would have probably topped the charts with homers and hits had he not gotten hurt so much. He, unlike many other MLB players, never used steroids and as I heard it was always determined to come back and play, and still today will not quit, no matter how he feels or what he is getting paid.
For the throwing arm of the pitcher I would have to pick Chad Cordero. I went to a Nationals game in the 2005 season and watched this guy come in and just sweep guys away. Being that he is a closer he may not pitch as much as starters, but he has great form and just kills on the mound.
For the fielding I would have to pick Jim Edmonds. Though he is an outfielder, the man has probably one of the best gloves I have seen. He has won numerous gold gloves and every time I have watched a Cardinals game the past few years I have seen the guys make spectacular play after another.
The bat, hitting part of this player could be none other than Albert Pujols. The story of this man is exceptional. He today resides playing professional baseball, after being cut from various teams he has made his way to the pros and proved himself as an awesome hitter. That jack he had in the NLCS in Houston to bring the Cardinals back home in the ninth inning was one of the greatest hits I think I have ever seen. Not only can he hit for power though, he gets lots of regular hits, and can hit for average as well. The man is truly talented, and even though the player I am creating is a pitcher, I believe he should be able to hit and would say Pujols is the man to be.
For the speed/quickness of the pitcher, for both running and fielding I would say needs to be like Ichiro. Ichiro is a fabulous hitter, but a lot of the hits he gets are beat out by his speed, from what I have seen. Last season he had 33 stolen bases, pretty impressive at the professional level might I add. I have seen him play live before and let me tell you he was moving everywhere he went, from running around the bases to getting out to his position.
I believe that a player that had the skills of all these men combined would be very successful in the major leagues and this is because all the people named would make him not only a five tool player, but a great teammate as well.
February 2006
WINNERS BIO: A sophomore at Rainier High School in Oregon, Casey Bodenhamer plays football, basketball, and golf. His true passion is football and he is a receiver and corner for the Rainier High Columbians ? a close second, however, is basketball where he plays guard. Casey also enjoys X-Box, and recently broke the Top 100 on the X-Box Live football league. For his winning response, Casey was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. For his ?surprise? gift, Casey will be one of the first people to own the Cutters? Naked Glove. It is one of our newest innovations, yet to be revealed to the public. Keep your eye out on the Cutters site for the introduction of this groundbreaking product! Congratulations, Casey!QUESTION: Do you think that including professional athletes has been good or bad for the Olympics? Is the impact equal across all events? What would you decide, and how would you defend your position if you were on the Olympic Committee?
WINNING ANSWER: There are probably many outlooks on how professional athletes have affected the Olympics. Good or bad, I think that it's changed the way things are done. In my opinion, it's a good thing that professional athletes are allowed to partake in the Olympic events.
My first reason for athletes being a good thing for the Olympics is that now we can have the BEST of the sports competing against each other rather than just the sub-par athletes. I'm not taking anything away from them, but if we want someone representing our country, why not have the best? Another thing is that if professional athletes weren't allowed to join in, then it wouldn't even be fair to them. As long as both professional athletes and amateur athletes get to try out, why not just let the best go at it with each other?
I don't think that the impact is equal across all events. You can take a look at certain sports. In hockey, for example, there are many professional athletes who would love to represent their country but weren't allowed to in the past, now look, that's pretty much what the teams are. But then you can look at bobsledding. Now come on, honestly, there's not too much of difference between a "professional" bobsledder and an amateur. I haven't seen too many pro bobsledders around recently. So again, I'd have to say that the advantage goes to the professional athletes.
If I were on the Olympic Committee, I would just defend myself by saying that we need to have the best available athletes from every country competing or no one will be interested. Every country wants to see the best of the best duke it out against another country?s best, no one really wants to see people they don't even know, or have even heard of representing their country.
So in the end, all I would really want to see happening is what is going on now and just hope it continues this way. If I'm going to watch the Olympics, I want to see the best athletes in the world trying to prove that they?re them and their country is the best in the world.
February 2006
WINNERS BIO: Wesley Jackson is a Junior at South Broward High School in Hollywood, Florida. A linebacker for the Bulldogs, he has been playing football since 9th Grade, and enjoys lifting weights when he is not on the field. For his winning response, Wesley was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The ?surprise? gift? Wesley will be one of the first people to own one of Cutters? newest innovations: The Gauntlet. Congratulations!QUESTION: Do you think that including professional athletes has been good or bad for the Olympics? Is the impact equal across all events? What would you decide, and how would you defend your position if you were on the Olympic Committee?
WINNING ANSWER: Professional athletes? being allowed to compete in the Olympics has been bad for the games. The Olympics are supposed to be a thing of glory, and to show that through all of the trials that athletes go through their hard work was not in vain. The impact that allowing professional athletes has is not the same across all events. For example, in the Torino winter games, professional snowboarders have more resources such as money and endorsements than professional curlers because of snowboarding?s mass popularity with the general population of the world. If I were on the Olympic committee I would decide against allowing professional athletes to compete in the Olympic games. The basic principle of the Olympic games is to allow countries and athletes around the world to show what they are made of; professional athletes are "made" of more stuff because of the resources that they have. Amateur athletes, however, are pushed with the drive to be the best - not the drive for money or fame. That makes watching amateur athletes compete more intriguing and more exciting. These are the reasons why only amateur athletes should be allowed to compete in the Olympic games.
December 2005
WINNERS BIO: Cody Sharpless is an 8th grader at The Covenant School in Dallas, Texas. His fifth year playing football, he is a running back on offense, and a defensive tackle on defense for the Covenant Knights. An avid Texas Longhorn fan, Cody also likes basketball, reading, hanging out with his brothers, and playing with his cat, Bevo. For his winning response, he was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The ?surprise? gift? Cutters Weight Lifting Gloves for his entire team?.Go Knights! Congratulations, Cody!QUESTION: Holiday time is here again! All of us at Cutters wish you a happy holiday season. It's easy to imagine all of the gifts that you might want, but here's a twist: If you were to buy a gift for any athlete or team, what would you get for them? Why? What woul
WINNING ANSWER: If I could give all of my teammates a gift, I would get them all weight lifting gloves. The reason for this is that it is the off-season, and our season does not start until August 1st. I want my teammates and myself to be physically and mentally prepared for next season. Weight lifting gloves would be a great gift for a number of reasons. One is that it would create a spark for strength, success, and personal goals. Another is that my team and myself could use these gloves for off-season workouts, and eventually in-season workouts. If I sent a card along with this gift, I would write in it:
"I purchased these gloves for the whole team. They are for weight lifting. As a team, we will have voluntary workouts, in which these gloves may assist us. If we all use these gloves as an inspiration, we will excel next season and make a run for state."
November 2005
WINNERS BIO: Chris Moloney is a sophomore at Colby-Sawyer College in New London, New Hampshire. He plays linebacker and running back, and has been playing football since his freshman year in high school. When he?s not on the field, Chris likes to hang out with friends, and is an avid reader. For his excellent winning response, he was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The ?surprise? gift? Cutters Arm Sleeves and Weight-Lifting Gloves ? contributing to his performance on and off the field!QUESTION: If a school or team is sponsored by a sporting goods company, should the individual athletes be required to wear their gear? If so, why? If not, why not?
WINNING ANSWER: A player should wear what makes him or her most comfortable. In some cases, individual brands do not fit each player the same, nor do they necessarily feel comfortable for all players. I think the best way for a team and sponsor to coexist, is to have the sponsored apparel be something like a jersey or pant/short. These items, in my opinion, are the easiest for all players to use with ease and comfort, and require relatively little individualization. For instance, shoes and cleats, are very position and person specific, and therefore don't always make the best items to sponsor. I feel that if a team can come to an agreement like this with their sponsor, things will work out best for both player and team.
October 2005
WINNERS BIO: Ryan Robinson is a Junior at Santa Fe Christian School, playing Center and D-Line on their football team since his freshman year. Living in sunny Carlsbad, California, Ryan also likes swimming and he has been playing the trumpet for seven years. After high school, he plans to go to the Air Force Academy and study aeronautics. For his excellent winning response, he was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The "surprise" gift? Cutters is throwing an end-of-season pizza party for his team...Go, Eagles!QUESTION: You're in the thick of the season: You win some, you lose some. What have you (or your team) experienced in a loss that has helped you prepare for your next win?
WINNING ANSWER: I play for a team that doesn't lose much. We have won 3 out of the last 4 CIF championships played in Qualcomm Stadium where the Chargers play. But just 2 weeks ago, we came up against one of our biggest rivals believing that we would walk all over them, because of the film we had watched on them just a few days before. We knew that the quarterback was their whole team. Their linemen averaged about 5'11" and weighed in at about 180 pounds ? small linemen compared to us. We came into that game expecting to win.
Our coach Brian Sipe (old Cleveland Brown's quarterback) had talked it up and expected a win just as all of the players did. The game was a little different though. We came out ready to play, but the other team came out fired up. We were their whole season. They even warmed up in old jerseys, then busted out new ones in the locker room, just before game time. They were ready to play football. We just didn't execute. The final score came to be 34 to 20. As I reflect on this game, I speak for my whole team, "We played horrible."
One thing we noticed that following Monday watching film was that between quarters, Horizon would walk to the other end of the field as a team, talking with their coach. We all walked down as if we had never known each other. None of us said a word to each other. Then, we tried to continue playing a team that had it all together. Reflecting, we all saw that we needed to be more of a team. We needed to motivate each other and get serious.
In conclusion, we have played another game since then, and played as a team. It definitely showed and we came out with a 40 to 7 victory. We have alllearned to never take even our easiest opponents lightly, because it is sure to come back and haunt you. Playing as a team is definitely the way to win. When you play as a team, you play with heart, knowing that the guy next to you is trying just as hard as you are. So my recommendation to all of those teams losing out there: next week, try to fire each other up and play as a team. See what it will do for you. It worked for us!! GO EAGLES!!!!
September 2005
WINNERS BIO: Eric Golay plays Tight End and Linebacker at Perry High School in Perry, Iowa. Having played football his whole life, Eric is a big fan of the game, especially rooting for the Iowa Hawkeyes. When he's not playing football, Eric likes to hang out with friends and go to movies. For his winning response, he was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The "surprise" gift? Well, his teammates have lucked out: Cutters is outfitting his entire team with gloves... Congratulations, Tyler! And, go Perry High!QUESTION: If Cutters Gloves were a car, what kind of car would it be? Why?
WINNING ANSWER: I think that if Cutters Gloves were a car it would be a Land Rover. They are extremely rugged vehicles just like the gloves. I have a pair that has lasted me a really long time. I'll take a beating at football practice and just go home and wash them, and they'll be even better than they were before. It doesn't matter how dirty a Land Rover gets - it still looks good. It's the same way with Cutters Gloves: They keep on going when the rest of the competition has quit and gone to lunch. Land Rovers last for many years and so do Cutters. You could put a Land Rover in any kind of climate in the world, and you know it'll be coming back in the same great shape it left in. You could do the same thing with Cutters Gloves, and they would just be fine. After a Land Rover hits something - and, believe me, they hit stuff - it just backs up and keeps on driving. That's like when I make a tackle. It might rub a little stick off the gloves, but in a few plays they're back to tip-top shape. Land Rovers are really comfortable to be in, and so are Cutters Gloves. I love the feel of the gloves on my hands as I'm making a play.
Land Rovers are some of the roughest vehicles out there, and Cutters are the toughest gloves ever!
August 2005
WINNERS BIO: Phil Orzechowski is a Junior at St. Cloud Cathedral High School in St. Cloud, Minnesota. He is a linebacker, and has been playing football for 7 years. When he isn?t on the field, Phil likes lifting weights, hanging out with friends, and watching sports. For his excellent winning response, he was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The ?surprise? gift? Cutters t-shirts for his entire team!QUESTION: Boston was once again chosen as the top sports city. What city do you think should be rated #1? Why?
WINNING ANSWER: Green Bay, Wisconsin boasts one of the richest and greatest football teams in the NFL, the Green Bay Packers. The Packers have been in Green Bay for well over 86 years, and is the only publicly owned sports corporation in the NFL. Nearly 112,000 stockholders own the Green Bay Packers, making them not only just a team, but a team that belongs to and is owned by the Green Bay community. In fact, most people in Green Bay, whether or not they own a piece of the Green Bay Packers, feel they do. During the winter months of the NFL season, many local Green Bay residents will go to Lambeau Field to help shovel out the field and stands. One may ask why Green Bay residents love their Packers, when of the nearly 112,000 stockholders not one of them makes a dime. Well, because they are the Green Bay Packers; they own the Packers, and the community is the biggest aspect of this sports franchise. The Green Bay Packers and the Green Bay area have seen many fantastic players and events. Vince Lombardi, Curly Lambeau, Don Hutson, the late Reggie White, Bart Starr, and Brett Favre to name a few. Or how about the Ice Bowl, one of the greatest games the Frozen Tundra of Lambeau Field or any other gridiron in the NFL has ever seen. How about the 3 Super Bowl Championships, or the 12 NFL Championships that the Green Bay Packers have won? The Packers are not just a small-town, publicly-owned team, but they are a highly successful sports franchise. I believe that to have a great sports city, you don't need to have three or four professional teams. You need a good community that is rich in history and a community that has a special bond to its team(s). What the Green Bay residents have accomplished, not many other sports cities have been able to do. The small town of Green Bay, Wisconsin with a population of no more than 102,313 people has sustained one of the greatest NFL teams for more than 86 years. Not many other cities can say that about their teams. The community is invested in the Packers, and the Packers, invested in the community.
May 2005
WINNERS BIO: David Lopez plays safety and cornerback at Central High School in Fresno, California. David will spend the summer training for football and says that he may not be the biggest or the toughest, but has dedication. David also spends time working out, running, wrestling, skateboarding, and hanging out with friends. For his winning response, he was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The "surprise" gift? A $100 donation was made in David's name to the John Lynch Foundation, whose mission is to develop young leaders and support youth programs for student-athletes. David also received a pair Cutters Fitness Gloves. Congratulations!QUESTION: If you could have anyone (and we mean ANYONE) help you prepare for your next, big game, who would it be? What would they train you on? Why?...Mind, body, or soul....
WINNING ANSWER: If I could have anyone train me it would have to be John Lynch. He is truly my inspiration at safety/corner. He's not flashy and he's not a big talker because he does all his talking on the field. He knows his job and he executes it extremely well. His hitting techniques are unbelievable. He is a hard hitter and a great athlete. I would love to do his work outs and train with him. I would love to concentrate the way he does and just learn how to focus like him. It would be amazing knowing his secret in preparing his mind for the next game. It's as if when he steps on the field everything disappears and the only thing left is him and his opponent. Mr. Lynch can read the run and pass so well, it's as if he knows where the ball's going before it's even snapped, and to be helped by Lynch would be not only an honor but also a gift. John Lynch is truly an amazing athlete as well as an amazing man. He is my mentor for life.
April 2005
WINNERS BIO: Tyler Meade plays wide receiver for the Iowa City West High School football team. He loves playing sports and also enjoys watching TV with his family. For his winning response, he was awarded a Home & Away Package, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The ?surprise? gift? A Cutters jacket and Coaches Gloves for when he?s off the field. Congratulations, Tyler!QUESTION: Spring fever means baseball fever. Come up with your own version of lyrics for 'Take Me Out to the Ball Game.' Geared toward your team, geared toward the times...anything goes!
WINNING ANSWER:
Take me out to the ball game,
Take me out on the field.
Give me my Cutters and other gear,
I don't care if I wait for a year,
So it's root, root, root for the Cutters,
With C-TACK I get all the fame,
So it's 1, 2, 3 pairs I need
To get through, the game!!!!!!!!!!
April 2005
WINNERS BIO: Jeff Holley has been coaching high school football for 15 years, and is currently the lineman coach for freshmen and sophomores. He will be busy next season as three schools are merging to form West Carroll High School in next year?Good luck! We don?t usually award two prizes, but Jeff?s entry was just too good to pass up. For his response, Jeff was awarded a pair of Cutters Original Receiver Gloves and a Cutters cap. Congratulations! As a winner, you will receive a pair of Cutters Original Receiver Gloves and a Cutters cap.QUESTION: Spring fever means baseball fever. Come up with your own version of lyrics for 'Take Me Out to the Ball Game.' Geared toward your team, geared toward the times...anything goes!
WINNING ANSWER:
Make me an Offensive Lineman
Make me an Offensive Guard
Let me get Mean & Nasty
I'll make sure the QB don?t ever get sacked
And it's grunt, grunt, grunt
In the trenches
I'll work the hardest, each game
Cause it's always one, two, three downs you're out
At the old (football) ball game.
November 2004
WINNERS BIO: Tommy Burk is a senior at De La Salle High School in California, home of a great high school football dynasty coached by the highly respected Bob LaDouceur. Tommy plays defensive back for the Spartans, and has been playing football since his freshman year. He plans to go to college next year, and is interested in studying business or medicine. For his excellent response, Tommy was awarded a Cutters cap, t-shirt, and Home & Away Package, and his team was surprised with Winterized Receiver Gloves for each player! Congratulations!QUESTION: Should players be penalized for celebrating touchdowns?? Tell us your opinion.? Describe a memorable celebration that you have seen or participated in.
WINNING ANSWER: Players should not be penalized for celebrating touchdowns. They work hard throughout the week, and when they perform well in a game, they get excited. Some of the most memorable dances I have seen have been the Dirty Bird by Jamal Andersen and the Atlanta Falcons, the Funky Chicken by Merton Hanks, the Mile-High Salute, the Zack Crockett touchdown dance, the AK 47 machine gun mow down, and many others. The most memorable, however, has to be the bomb squad where members gather into a circle, and then throw the ball into the air. When it hits the ground, everyone falls down backwards, like a bomb has exploded. I am definitely in favor of the touchdown dance, especially if it is a defensive or special teams touchdown. In my opinion, those are the best to watch (mostly because I play defense and special teams). The touchdown dance adds a new dimension to the game, and only makes getting to the end zone that much better.
October 2004
WINNERS BIO: Adam Matichak plays Quarterback and Linebacker for Moreau Catholic High School. A sophomore, he has played football for two years, and also likes lifting weights and graphic design. Congratulations, Adam! For his winning response, he will be awarded a Home & Away Package in his team?s green and white, a Cutters cap, and a Cutters t-shirt. The ?surprise? gift? We?re taking care of all of Adam?s glove needs: He?ll also receive Cutters Fitness Gloves, Cutters Quarterback Gloves, and Cutters Linebacker Gloves!QUESTION: Sports & politics. If you could nominate any pro athlete for President, who would it be? Why?
WINNING ANSWER: I would probably nominate Tom Brady. He is a great leader on and off the field, leading the New England Patriots to two Super Bowls and 21 straight wins. He is not only a leader, but a great team player ? never getting down on another player because they made a bad play. He is always listening to other players, coaches, and advisors about how he can do better not only for himself, but for his team. How does he manage to keep his cool under this enormous pressure? Simple. He is a born leader, and that is what this country needs right now: someone who is not made into a leader, but someone who has the natural instinct to make the right decision. Tom Brady is not only a choice, but the choice for an athlete as President.
September 2004
WINNERS BIO: Hunter Housley is a Receiver with the Pine View High School Panthers in St. George, Utah. He has been playing football for 3-4 years, and is also an avid tennis player. Hunter is an Eagle Scout and a 4.0 student, and just helped his family brick their new house every Saturday for six months. Now we call that discipline! As the Cutters Gloves September Contest Winner, his surprise gift is?Receiver Gloves for his entire team. Way to go, Hunter!QUESTION: How do you prepare for a game? Tell us about your personal and/or team pre-game rituals.
WINNING ANSWER: Before every game, I feel pretty nervous, just like nearly every other kid who has ever played the sport of football. However, the way a person handles these emotions is crucial to the outcome of the game. Before I snap on the gear and get ready to roll, I make sure I tell myself that it's just a game and to relax. Once you tense up, all sorts of bad things can happen. I also try to remember that whatever happens, my teammates are behind me 100%. At our school, our football team has a saying called "Circle Black". This basically just reminds us that we need to play as a team and boost each other up. A circle with a missing link obviously isn?t a circle anymore and everything falls apart. We try to help each other out as much as possible to pull off the big ?W? and make it one step closer to a state championship.
August 2004
WINNERS BIO: Dakota La Tier is a receiver with the Park Hill Trojans in Kansas City, Missouri. Dakota has been playing football since 3rd Grade, and is about to start his senior year with the Trojans ? 2003 State Champs! He hopes to play college ball in MO, and is interested in studying computer programming and designing video games. Congratulations, Dakota! For his winning response, he was awarded a Home & Away Package, Cutters visor, and Cutters t-shirt. The ?surprise? gift? Cutters t-shirts for his ENTIRE team?Go Trojans!QUESTION: If you could trade places with any athlete for a day, who would it be and why?
WINNING ANSWER: Kansas City Chiefs receiver and return man Dante Hall ? hands down. Dante has 4.4 speed and excellent hands. Being a receiver myself, I look up to Dante because he is only 5?8?, 187 lbs., and he shows that even if you are short/small you can still bring the best to the game. He tied the record for 4 returns in one season, and he made it look so easy. I?ve learned a lot of technique from him in his receiving and running style that I know have made me a better player, aside from what wearing Cutters has done for me. He is a great guy to be around and talk to because he is so energetic and unexpected. To be that kind of a person and an athlete for just one day would be an amazing experience.
