On ESPN I found the article, “Pour on the Pressure, but you’re not going to get to Eli” by Gene Wojciechowski. The article talks about Eli Manning and his influence on teams throughout his career and where he is now and how he got there. I like the style of this writer and I feel that he could reach a lot of people by his tone and what the article is about.
Lately we see a lot of news that finds the faults of people, especially sport icons. We see cheating, individual social choices, law-breaking and other bad images. Writers know that dirt on popular players often make for a good sports story. This story is different. This is an uplifting personal story about Eli Manning and although it isn’t all happy go lucky, it is the type of story that interests me, and helps me realize that these people are human and even good traits and qualities can be recognized.
This article makes some great references to the legendary Manning name and what we have expected in the past and what we do expect from Eli Manning. I think the author has made some great points into the personality of Eli. In the article it explains, “It’s hard to get a rise out of the guy. Barber came close (he questioned Manning’s leadership abilities), but otherwise Manning generally keeps his emotions to himself. When he was in high school, Manning came home from playing in a basketball game and his parents asked, ‘Well, how’d it go?’ ‘It went fine’, Manning said. ‘We won.’ Except that they won because Manning scored 30 points, including the game winner. Cooper had to tell them, Eli wouldn’t.”
By this we can tell that the author did a lot of personal research of Eli Manning and I think this creates depth to the story. This article also has great flow and great references. Obviously if you write for ESPN, you have some great sources and he has had a lot of experience and can relate to his readers and public. The quotes were reported clearly and understandable in the right places in this article.
This story is newsworthy because of the relevance of the Super Bowl coming up this weekend, which is always the biggest football game of the year for most people. The article is fair to any audience and is overall positively written. There are specific main points all throughout the body to keep attention on the overall topic and idea the writer is conveying.
This article also paints a pretty good picture of the personality of Eli. You don’t get to know a lot of in depth personal stories from spotlight players-at least good uplifting insights. He has come a long way from his high school, and college career and this article proves that with facts. This next excerpt from the article I am including because I think it is great writing. It is the lead into the article. “The text message was sent to Eli Manning before the NFC wild-card game at Tampa Bay, before the divisional playoff fame at Dallas, before the NFC Championship Game at Green Bay. Slow and steady wins the race, it read. No unforced errors.”
One thing I don’t like about this article is that I don’t know many of the sources. I am definitely not as much of a sports enthusiast as a lot of people I know so I am not familiar with the less popular group of successful sports participants. I am at fault for that, not so much the writer. I wonder though, as such a high profile writer, does he find his own sources and facts or does he have someone finding these things for him? I don’t know much about writing for a company specifically and the job details, but I would hope that if you get the facts, you get the credit.
Overall I clearly like this article. I like the tone, I like the idea and I like the overall style of the writing. It was easy to comprehend and read smoothly. It caught my attention with the lead and title and it kept my attention throughout the article making me read it all the way to the end.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
the book of life (article critique 1)
Jason Enes
MC 299
January 31, 2008
Article Critique 1
The Book of Life
In the January 28th issue of ESPN the magazine David Fleming wrote an article about the NFL play book and why each team is so protective of them.
The article explains that most NFL playbooks are 500-700 pages long and color-coded by offense and defense. It also goes on to explain that each page in the book has 8 to 12 plays on it. It also mentions how each individual player has his own personal feelings about his play book and some of the veterans may not use it for it’s intended purpose. Jacksonville Jaguar linebacker Clint Ingram summed it up best when he said “If you master that book, you play, you get paid.”
The article then goes into describing where the playbook came from and how Coach Paul Brown made it popular in the 1940’s. It then leads into how Tony Dungy and Bill Belichick have evolved their playbooks and what they expect their players to know from those books.
The article caught my attention because I’m a football fan and I am also curious about the playbook. I was hoping to get a little more on the back-story of the book not just a one-paragraph intro. Unfortunately I did not find out anything that surprised me or that I did not already know. It did mention that the books are prized possessions and that coaches and organizations will let you take anything you want when you leave the team except for the playbook. A former NFL quarterback Karl Sweetan was even arrested for trying to sell a Rams playbook to the Saints.
The article I chose was intended to be read by football fans and the pictures that were used aimed it at Patriots fans. I don’t think that the article was balanced because most of the story mentioned two coaches’ playbooks Tony Dungy and Bill Belichick. I do think that the questions in the article were answered the best way they could be especially considering the little information that was given by the Patriots. All of the information collected about the playoff teams was collected from an outside source.
Finally I think that the story was written just as it should have been. It had perfect flow and if I were writing it the only thing I would change would be to find a couple of other coaches to interview and get their perspectives. I loved the quotes the writer used because it gave an outsider an idea of how important playbooks are to the teams and players and how the coaches use the books to install the gameplan every week.
If I were an editor the follow up would be to find out during the off season how many of the plays that were installed for a particular game actually were used. It would be interesting to see how much time they spent studying plays that were never used.
MC 299
January 31, 2008
Article Critique 1
The Book of Life
In the January 28th issue of ESPN the magazine David Fleming wrote an article about the NFL play book and why each team is so protective of them.
The article explains that most NFL playbooks are 500-700 pages long and color-coded by offense and defense. It also goes on to explain that each page in the book has 8 to 12 plays on it. It also mentions how each individual player has his own personal feelings about his play book and some of the veterans may not use it for it’s intended purpose. Jacksonville Jaguar linebacker Clint Ingram summed it up best when he said “If you master that book, you play, you get paid.”
The article then goes into describing where the playbook came from and how Coach Paul Brown made it popular in the 1940’s. It then leads into how Tony Dungy and Bill Belichick have evolved their playbooks and what they expect their players to know from those books.
The article caught my attention because I’m a football fan and I am also curious about the playbook. I was hoping to get a little more on the back-story of the book not just a one-paragraph intro. Unfortunately I did not find out anything that surprised me or that I did not already know. It did mention that the books are prized possessions and that coaches and organizations will let you take anything you want when you leave the team except for the playbook. A former NFL quarterback Karl Sweetan was even arrested for trying to sell a Rams playbook to the Saints.
The article I chose was intended to be read by football fans and the pictures that were used aimed it at Patriots fans. I don’t think that the article was balanced because most of the story mentioned two coaches’ playbooks Tony Dungy and Bill Belichick. I do think that the questions in the article were answered the best way they could be especially considering the little information that was given by the Patriots. All of the information collected about the playoff teams was collected from an outside source.
Finally I think that the story was written just as it should have been. It had perfect flow and if I were writing it the only thing I would change would be to find a couple of other coaches to interview and get their perspectives. I loved the quotes the writer used because it gave an outsider an idea of how important playbooks are to the teams and players and how the coaches use the books to install the gameplan every week.
If I were an editor the follow up would be to find out during the off season how many of the plays that were installed for a particular game actually were used. It would be interesting to see how much time they spent studying plays that were never used.
Article Critique #1
ESPN the Magazine – The Book of Life
The article “The Book of Life” immediately stood out to me when I was reading through the ESPN magazine. It is an article that features the ever elusive playbook that NFL teams plan from. It speaks of the importance of this book to the levels of players sleeping with it next to them in bed or locking the playbook in a safe. It also talks about how a coach will take information from a playbook when they leave a team and include it in the playbook of the coach’s new team. This means that each team’s playbook isn’t as original as initially perceived. Each coach does have their own system for calls, signals and formations that make their playbooks unique.
This article is well written and easily understood making it a good read for the general audience. It also gives a sneak peek into NFL life that the fans don’t normally get to see. The sneak peek effect gives off a curiosity that makes it difficult for fans to want to turn away from. All of these factors make it a good read. Also, in the lead the writer does a good job of pulling the audience in by painting a picture of what it would be like to sneak in on the patriots eating breakfast at their stadium and includes some irresistible humor. Then the first paragraph knocks that idea out of the reader’s head by painting the actual picture of the Patriots studying their playbooks. The readers’ attention is already grabbed by the lead, and the story continues with an insight that fans don’t get unless they read or listen to it.
The audience is obviously fans of the NFL. However, the manner in which this story is written could grab the attention of anyone who might be curious about insight that those who get to go behind the scenes gain. The entire story does not follow the Patriots necessarily and I think that the story could have been just as powerful without the mention of them. However, the mention of the Patriots brings in thoughts of the upcoming Super Bowl and adds to the interest by making it relevant to the readers. I would say that this article is newsworthy, but without that tie into the Super Bowl I wouldn’t say that it is timely. What makes this article newsworthy is its ability to connect with its audience in a unique way. I would call this article unique because I haven’t seen many articles that go into dept on the idea of NFL playbooks before.
I think that the story is objective because it doesn’t release any ideas to who might have the best playbook or the best ideas. It also features a handful of teams, although the primary focus does tend to be on the Patriots. As mentioned before, I don’t think that this would be the case without the upcoming Super Bowl. I also don’t think that it leaves any questions unanswered. Instead I think that it opens up the readers’ minds to think differently and maybe raise new questions. These new questions could maybe be answered in a follow up story. I think that a follow up assignment could be to talk about the plays used in the Super Bowl and include more information about the most valuable play with information given by Scouts Inc. Also, it would be interesting to do a follow up story about the scouting that will begin shortly and how moving one player to a different team might affect the playbooks, and if the players have any of there own suggestions in the playbooks. It would be interesting to see what could be cooked up as a follow up piece.
I am sure that I would have written this article differently, only because I have a different way of expressing myself. I do feel that this article was written in simple language and I didn’t have to look anything up to understand it. It also held my attention throughout the entirety of it. I don’t think that I would have any suggestions for this writer. If it held the attention of a girl who had little interest in sport then there isn’t much else that could be done to widen the audience understanding. I guess that perhaps more plays could have been added for those readers who have an advanced understanding of sports, but then it would not have held my attention for long.
I enjoyed the behind the scenes insight that this article offered. In addition to that I enjoyed most of the articles in the ESPN magazine and I’m considering getting a subscription for myself. I feel like I am knowledgeable about a piece of the NFL that I would probably not given a second thought to if I hadn’t read this article. Everyone knows that playbooks are used, but I guess I never thought about the sacredness of a team’s playbook before.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
I don't quite understand all the hype of Sydney Crosby. For those of you who don't know Sydney Crosby plays hockey for the NHL. He made it into the pro's when he was 18 years old. He's also the youngest team captain in NHL history. I read on article on ESPN.com and it hyped Crosby up like he was a god. I understand what a huge impact he's made on the game, but there are plenty of players who are just as good or better. It's hard for me as a hockey player to watch reporters drooling over Crosby like he's a supermodel in a mall. The article talked about how 8000 fans lined up to watch him practice. In a matter of years he has taken over and became the face of hockey. On January 1st there was the first ever NHL outdoor game in the states. From weeks before the drop of the first puck to the last shot in the shootout Crosby was treated like royalty. He had more publicity than any other player that day. The article talked about the normal life of Crosby and how he likes to fish everyday. I'll read almost any article that talks about hockey I just wish for a while the reporters would focus on somebody other than Sydney Crosby.
The Idaho State Journal does a fine job at covering local sports, especially high school sports. In yesterday’s (January 30) paper, Kellis Robinett wrote an excellent article about the opening round of the girls’ district tournament at Highland High School.
Kellis presented the facts in an orderly way. His description was spot on in describing the game. The opening paragraph, the lead, set the tone for the rest of the story with its strong opinionated language. This is how he started the article.
“From the opening tip, it was clear the Highland girls’ basketball team was going to roll.”
He backed up his bold statement with statistics that reinforced his point. He even mentioned the shooting percentage for Highland, not an easy task for Idaho girls’ basketball.
The article’s first quote came from the winning coach in paragraph four.
“That was a good start to the playoffs,” he said. “The girls were focused from the get go and came out with a mind-set that they were going to get better as the game went along.”
His quote selection was deliberate and it served as further evidence that the game went the way that he described it in the lead. Kellis didn’t settle for just interviewing one person, the coach. He interviewed two players that had a significant impact on the outcome of the game.
Kellis is a hard worker that brings a consistent level to everything that he covers. He is no stranger to big events. Kellis covered the Orange Bowl earlier this month. The Idaho State Journal is fortunate to have a writer of his caliber on their staff.
Kellis presented the facts in an orderly way. His description was spot on in describing the game. The opening paragraph, the lead, set the tone for the rest of the story with its strong opinionated language. This is how he started the article.
“From the opening tip, it was clear the Highland girls’ basketball team was going to roll.”
He backed up his bold statement with statistics that reinforced his point. He even mentioned the shooting percentage for Highland, not an easy task for Idaho girls’ basketball.
The article’s first quote came from the winning coach in paragraph four.
“That was a good start to the playoffs,” he said. “The girls were focused from the get go and came out with a mind-set that they were going to get better as the game went along.”
His quote selection was deliberate and it served as further evidence that the game went the way that he described it in the lead. Kellis didn’t settle for just interviewing one person, the coach. He interviewed two players that had a significant impact on the outcome of the game.
Kellis is a hard worker that brings a consistent level to everything that he covers. He is no stranger to big events. Kellis covered the Orange Bowl earlier this month. The Idaho State Journal is fortunate to have a writer of his caliber on their staff.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
bengal village press conference
for all those that are interested the bengal village press conference is on for tomorrow 1pm sport med building. link is included
jason
jason
Article Critique 1, Semifinal Verdict
Zach Roddy
January 29, 2008
Article Critique One
Prof. David Schreindl
About a week and a half ago (January 17) Scoop Jackson of ESPN Page 2, who is currently one of my favorite writers, wrote a column basically about the gap of legitimacy between the final four in pro football and college basketball. His ultimate question was, “Which is better.”
Being the gigantic college basketball fan that I am, it immediately reeled me in. College basketball is the essence of sports as a whole for me. It gives me feelings comparable to the romantics and the sensation they receive from their lovers. It’s Christmas minus the cold, but most of all, it is why I adore sports so much.
Scoop commenced his piece with a statement that tells of everyone having that one best friend that you can tell anything to. After his exploration of the individual’s characteristics, he introduced his “BF4L,” or best friend for life, which he called “The Encyclopedia.” The Encyclopedia is what Scoop defines as, “A sports fiend and John Madden on HGH.” The Encyclopedia is a football fanatic, but his real passion is basketball.
Scoop Jackson would eventually lead what he called, “another classic argument,” concerning what would be more of a sight; the four best teams in football playing for a Super Bowl or four division I basketball teams playing for a national title. The Encyclopedia’s main argument was that in pro football it usually pans out to what it’s supposed to be. The teams that are expected to win and have the spread to prove it do indeed pull off the victory. I was amazed at how effortlessly he put aside all of his countless aspirations for college basketball and what it meant to him to explain a point that was as so legitimate.
A couple of The Encyclopedia’s examples were Terrell Owens and Antonio Gates playing with dislocated bones in their feet and how a player in college basketball would never do that. Or a team named George Mason, who made a trip to the NCAA Final Four a couple of years ago. He admitted that the cute story of the Colonial team would never be seen deep into a playoff run in the NFL.
"People get all caught up in the pageantry and the drama leading up to the Final Four in basketball," The Encyclopedia said to Scoop. "And I agree, the first two weeks of the tournament are the best sports can give. But once you get to this stage in the NFL, all of the BS is gone and what's left standing is everything that the game represents. There are no surprises, no Cinderella stories, no more luck. Every year, the four teams that make it to this point in the NFL earned the right to be there. More than any team in any other sport."
The Encyclopedia’s points were made. After ten minutes of reading I was thoroughly convinced. The NFL’s final four was better than the NCAA’s Final Four. Am I any less enthused about the tournament of college basketball? No, of course not. In fact, The Encyclopedia’s points were all fine, but it is the uncertainty, the unpredictability, and the unforeseeable future of the Final Four that I enjoy so much. That is why I watch and that is why I will always watch.
January 29, 2008
Article Critique One
Prof. David Schreindl
About a week and a half ago (January 17) Scoop Jackson of ESPN Page 2, who is currently one of my favorite writers, wrote a column basically about the gap of legitimacy between the final four in pro football and college basketball. His ultimate question was, “Which is better.”
Being the gigantic college basketball fan that I am, it immediately reeled me in. College basketball is the essence of sports as a whole for me. It gives me feelings comparable to the romantics and the sensation they receive from their lovers. It’s Christmas minus the cold, but most of all, it is why I adore sports so much.
Scoop commenced his piece with a statement that tells of everyone having that one best friend that you can tell anything to. After his exploration of the individual’s characteristics, he introduced his “BF4L,” or best friend for life, which he called “The Encyclopedia.” The Encyclopedia is what Scoop defines as, “A sports fiend and John Madden on HGH.” The Encyclopedia is a football fanatic, but his real passion is basketball.
Scoop Jackson would eventually lead what he called, “another classic argument,” concerning what would be more of a sight; the four best teams in football playing for a Super Bowl or four division I basketball teams playing for a national title. The Encyclopedia’s main argument was that in pro football it usually pans out to what it’s supposed to be. The teams that are expected to win and have the spread to prove it do indeed pull off the victory. I was amazed at how effortlessly he put aside all of his countless aspirations for college basketball and what it meant to him to explain a point that was as so legitimate.
A couple of The Encyclopedia’s examples were Terrell Owens and Antonio Gates playing with dislocated bones in their feet and how a player in college basketball would never do that. Or a team named George Mason, who made a trip to the NCAA Final Four a couple of years ago. He admitted that the cute story of the Colonial team would never be seen deep into a playoff run in the NFL.
"People get all caught up in the pageantry and the drama leading up to the Final Four in basketball," The Encyclopedia said to Scoop. "And I agree, the first two weeks of the tournament are the best sports can give. But once you get to this stage in the NFL, all of the BS is gone and what's left standing is everything that the game represents. There are no surprises, no Cinderella stories, no more luck. Every year, the four teams that make it to this point in the NFL earned the right to be there. More than any team in any other sport."
The Encyclopedia’s points were made. After ten minutes of reading I was thoroughly convinced. The NFL’s final four was better than the NCAA’s Final Four. Am I any less enthused about the tournament of college basketball? No, of course not. In fact, The Encyclopedia’s points were all fine, but it is the uncertainty, the unpredictability, and the unforeseeable future of the Final Four that I enjoy so much. That is why I watch and that is why I will always watch.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Forty years in the making
Sex, drugs, rock-n-roll, and rioting the 60's had it all, right?
Not really, the 60's in California were desperately lacking. Until 1968, when Oakland fans obtained the Athletics, and the A's first winning season in 16 years. On May 8, 1968, Jim "Catfish" Hunter took to the mound and threw the first regular season perfect game in 46 years.
A strong start which didn't go unnoticed by sports enthusiasts. The following year, Reggie Jackson continued to impress A's fans hitting 39 homeruns during the first half of the season. The early season glory, however, faded quickly for both Jackson and the A's. Jackson hit only 8 homeruns during the second half of the season, and the A's struggled to overcome youth and inexperience. Despite a dismal second half, the A's managed to secure second place with an 88-74 record.
If the game play and headlining names weren't enough to seize national attention for the team, owner Charles O. Finley was certain to. For the A's home opener, in 1970, Finley employed a sensational tactic on par with Joseph Pulitzer. Creating a stir in Major League Baseball, Finley had the traditional white bases exchanged for yellow. While the bases received only one game of use, the stunt continues to earn recognition.
The following year, Finley continued to shuffle along the path of yellow journalism and offered his players bonuses for growing mustaches. The mustache quickly became a trademark for the team, with Rollie Fingers reviving the classic handlebar. Whether it was the new facial sprouts or the addition of Vida Blue, the A's won 101 games and the Western Division Title in 1971.
Beyond the legendary players, experimental hair, and a stuntman owner there are many reasons to adore the A's which go far beyond baseball. First off, it's highly unlikely the monster catfish featured in both "Grumpy Old Men" and "Grumpier Old Men" would have been called "Catfish Hunter" without the famed A's, Jim "Catfish" Hunter. Secondly, Mark McGwire.
And thirdly, MC Hammer may never have made it as a best selling rap artist without the aid and encouragement of Finley and the A's. In 1979, Stanley Burrell (AKA MC Hammer) was the bat boy for the A's, and Finley's major source of contact with the team during the troubled years. Without the A's springboard for the aspiring star, the 90's may have lacked parachute pants, women in second-skin lycra, and the running man. Let's face it, you just can't touch that for garnering laughs.
Back to the baseball, the A's have played some incredible seasons, produced Hall of Famers, and won numerous World Championships. But sadly, have failed to secure a World Series. I hope this is the year for the A's- The year that's been forty in the making.
Not really, the 60's in California were desperately lacking. Until 1968, when Oakland fans obtained the Athletics, and the A's first winning season in 16 years. On May 8, 1968, Jim "Catfish" Hunter took to the mound and threw the first regular season perfect game in 46 years.
A strong start which didn't go unnoticed by sports enthusiasts. The following year, Reggie Jackson continued to impress A's fans hitting 39 homeruns during the first half of the season. The early season glory, however, faded quickly for both Jackson and the A's. Jackson hit only 8 homeruns during the second half of the season, and the A's struggled to overcome youth and inexperience. Despite a dismal second half, the A's managed to secure second place with an 88-74 record.
If the game play and headlining names weren't enough to seize national attention for the team, owner Charles O. Finley was certain to. For the A's home opener, in 1970, Finley employed a sensational tactic on par with Joseph Pulitzer. Creating a stir in Major League Baseball, Finley had the traditional white bases exchanged for yellow. While the bases received only one game of use, the stunt continues to earn recognition.
The following year, Finley continued to shuffle along the path of yellow journalism and offered his players bonuses for growing mustaches. The mustache quickly became a trademark for the team, with Rollie Fingers reviving the classic handlebar. Whether it was the new facial sprouts or the addition of Vida Blue, the A's won 101 games and the Western Division Title in 1971.
Beyond the legendary players, experimental hair, and a stuntman owner there are many reasons to adore the A's which go far beyond baseball. First off, it's highly unlikely the monster catfish featured in both "Grumpy Old Men" and "Grumpier Old Men" would have been called "Catfish Hunter" without the famed A's, Jim "Catfish" Hunter. Secondly, Mark McGwire.
And thirdly, MC Hammer may never have made it as a best selling rap artist without the aid and encouragement of Finley and the A's. In 1979, Stanley Burrell (AKA MC Hammer) was the bat boy for the A's, and Finley's major source of contact with the team during the troubled years. Without the A's springboard for the aspiring star, the 90's may have lacked parachute pants, women in second-skin lycra, and the running man. Let's face it, you just can't touch that for garnering laughs.
Back to the baseball, the A's have played some incredible seasons, produced Hall of Famers, and won numerous World Championships. But sadly, have failed to secure a World Series. I hope this is the year for the A's- The year that's been forty in the making.
The Greatest ISU Sporting Event I Have Ever Seen
For those of you who were not at Holt Arena Sunday afternoon let me tell you one thing. You may have missed one of the best basketball games played on this campus and it was by far the best game of this season. I know I am one of the harshest critics of ISU athletics but with performances like that I and the other 2327 in attendance may have a change of heart. Things in Holt seemed different when I walked through the door maybe it was the sound of the band actually at a game (at least one I have been to) or maybe because the game was televised something seemed different. As for what happenend on the court it was fantastic the Bengals were in it from the begining and so was the crowd. That was the loudest I have ever heard the arena for a basketball game in the three years I have been on campus. NAU started the second half on fire and built an 11 point lead but then the big momentum changer happenend Coach O'Brien was ejected for picking up his second technical foul. After he was ejected the play on the court and the sound in side holt could rival any of the best teams in the country. All the excitement continued for the rest of the second half especially when the game winning basket went through with 7.5 seconds left. I have seen a bunch of great sporting events in my lifetime but of all the games I have been to at ISU this was no doubt the best I have ever seen and I could only hope there more events like this to come.
GO BRONCOS!!
Ok, I know that their season is over and that they didn't make it to the playoffs, but that didn't keep them from going out with a bang.
I got the opportunity to go to the last Bronco game of the season with my younger cousin Kyle. They played the Minnesota Vikings (My husband's team - but my husband was already back in Idaho so he couldn't go with me). The Vikings had a shot at making the playoffs IF they won the game. The Broncos were kicking their butts in the first three quarters, the Vikings were playing like crap and the Broncos were doing well on defense. It was looking like the Broncos had it in the bag.
In the fourth quarter, the Vikings came back and the Broncos turf had becomed threatened. The game ended up in overtime and the Vikings had the ball. Then, the Broncos made an amazing interception and won the game with a field goal!
I can't remember all of the exact details. As most of you know, I have a basic knowledge of most sports but I am lost on all of the technical language. I am still learning all of that. I will tell you that it was thrilling to be at the game (even though I was freezing - it was well worth it). This was my first time at invesco field and I loved it! The attendance was around 70,000, which blew me away since that is more than the amount of people that live in Idaho Falls.
I sound like a Idaho girl when I talk like that. I was born in Denver and most of my family lives there so we go back at least once a year. The Broncos are in my blood, I don't even know what other NFL team I would possibly root for, but I am proud to be a Denver Broncos fan!
Here are some pictures from the game:
This is to show how close we were, I didn't zoom in - but these guy's heads are in the way.
For the guys...
I got the opportunity to go to the last Bronco game of the season with my younger cousin Kyle. They played the Minnesota Vikings (My husband's team - but my husband was already back in Idaho so he couldn't go with me). The Vikings had a shot at making the playoffs IF they won the game. The Broncos were kicking their butts in the first three quarters, the Vikings were playing like crap and the Broncos were doing well on defense. It was looking like the Broncos had it in the bag.
In the fourth quarter, the Vikings came back and the Broncos turf had becomed threatened. The game ended up in overtime and the Vikings had the ball. Then, the Broncos made an amazing interception and won the game with a field goal!
I can't remember all of the exact details. As most of you know, I have a basic knowledge of most sports but I am lost on all of the technical language. I am still learning all of that. I will tell you that it was thrilling to be at the game (even though I was freezing - it was well worth it). This was my first time at invesco field and I loved it! The attendance was around 70,000, which blew me away since that is more than the amount of people that live in Idaho Falls.
I sound like a Idaho girl when I talk like that. I was born in Denver and most of my family lives there so we go back at least once a year. The Broncos are in my blood, I don't even know what other NFL team I would possibly root for, but I am proud to be a Denver Broncos fan!
Here are some pictures from the game:
This is my cousin and I....I know that you probably don't care - but I'm sharing anyway.
This is to show how close we were, I didn't zoom in - but these guy's heads are in the way.For the guys...Saturday, January 26, 2008
Favorite Team
It's hard to say who my favorite team is. I love hockey more than any other sport. We have a tournament today against some teams from Elko and I'm hoping to just kill them so they go home embarrassed. The all star game is tomorrow and the skills competition is tonight and I can't be more excited. As far as favorite teams go I would have to say my team is the Montreal Canadians. I'm half canadian and most of my family lives in Quebec. I really like Pittsburg, but you have to represent your home team. They're doing good this year as they lead the Eastern Conference with 66 points and are first in their division. It's hard rooting for one team when you enjoy the sport so much. Every team has amazing players that would kill me in a game. One thing thats cool is Francois Beauchemin, a defensemen for the Anaheim Ducks is related to me. He's my great uncle or something. I'm going to the world championchips this May to watch Canada vs usa in Nova Scotia and it would be sweet to hang him and get some free stuff.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
I wont lie, I am not that interested in Pro Football. I do have to admit though that I have, on occasion, watched a few games and each year around the end of January I find myself at some sort of party watching the Super Bowl. Each year I find myself not caring at who is playing or what kind of season they had but I seem to watch that final game of the season year after year. I think I pay more attention when it comes to the commercials and grab a snack during a play instead of at the break. Halftime is always interesting to me too, except in the past few years. The recent performers have been on the "safe side" but of no entertainment value to me. I understand the scrutiny that the networks are under from previous things that have happened, but I would still like to enjoy the show-or at least have any interest in it at all. Although I barely know anything about the two teams playing this year, why am I going to find myself at another Super Bowl party? Maybe it's for the good food that I find there...
Can Boston Really Go 70?
Since the Chicago Bull's magical season in 1995-1996, there has yet to be a team to match their remarkable odyssey of 72 wins. Well, tonight's home game against the Toronto Raptors will mark the Boston Celtics of 2007-2008 40th game of the season. Boston currently holds the association's best record at 33-6. To no dismay of their success this far, the Celtics have lost three of four (two of those against Washington) after beating Detroit at the Palace in Michigan. Their current three game win streak put an end to that, but one would begin to wonder if this team has what it takes to potentially win a NBA championship.
Paul Pierce (20.4 ppg), Kevin Garnett (19.3 ppg) and Ray Allen (18.2 ppg), or "The Big Three" have all displayed their exceptional abilities in sharing and distributing the ball, while contributing individually at the same time. Many would validly anticipate those three caliber players getting the job done, but I would insist on diverging. With the exception of "The Big Three," Boston has no player on their roster who is avereaging above 10 ppg. Role players Rajon Rondo, Tony Allen, Kendrick Perkins and James Posey have yet to step into a more significant role. When playoff time arrives and two of your three stars go cold (or go injured), who will be that x-factor to assist in the offensive game? On the other hand, I don't think play at the defensive end will be an issue with the Celtics just giving up over 87 points a contest.
Beginning tonight, the Celtics would have to win 43 of their last 49 games to reach the 70 game milestone. They have already produced nine more wins than they put together last season and are on a sensational pace to partake in 45 more victories. This team holds three scoring superstars, two consistent role players in Rajon Rondo and Eddie House and one eventual hall-of-famer who could potentially take his team the distance.
Can they go 70? I say yes.
Paul Pierce (20.4 ppg), Kevin Garnett (19.3 ppg) and Ray Allen (18.2 ppg), or "The Big Three" have all displayed their exceptional abilities in sharing and distributing the ball, while contributing individually at the same time. Many would validly anticipate those three caliber players getting the job done, but I would insist on diverging. With the exception of "The Big Three," Boston has no player on their roster who is avereaging above 10 ppg. Role players Rajon Rondo, Tony Allen, Kendrick Perkins and James Posey have yet to step into a more significant role. When playoff time arrives and two of your three stars go cold (or go injured), who will be that x-factor to assist in the offensive game? On the other hand, I don't think play at the defensive end will be an issue with the Celtics just giving up over 87 points a contest.
Beginning tonight, the Celtics would have to win 43 of their last 49 games to reach the 70 game milestone. They have already produced nine more wins than they put together last season and are on a sensational pace to partake in 45 more victories. This team holds three scoring superstars, two consistent role players in Rajon Rondo and Eddie House and one eventual hall-of-famer who could potentially take his team the distance.
Can they go 70? I say yes.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Super Bowl
What are some of the alternatives to watching the Super Bowl? I really don't think I can watch the game this year. I hate the giants and patriots almost equally. Does anyone know if the theater runs movies on super bowl Sunday? Is the bowling alley even open? I have never been in this situation before.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
An expectation of play
This is my hometown. As a chubby cheeked, girl I sat in the stands at Reed Gym with my family. I was four-years-old, the first time I attended an ISU volleyball game. I remember blushing at the art lining the walls at the entrance before shuffling inside, the faint sweet scent of the aged gym mixed with the warm salty aroma of popcorn, the squeak of sneakers on the floor, and squirming with excitement as t-shirts were lobbed into the crowd. I remember the fluid emotions of the crowd, cheering as the ball soared over the blockers and fell on the opposition and a desolate silence as the ball toppled in our court. I admired the women as they jumped to spike the ball and as they crashed to their knees unable to contact the ball. I remember begging to return, but I can't recall the wins or losses.
Nor do I recall any expectation of failure from the crowd, however, the expectation of failure seems unavoidable to me now. I hear remarks on campus, such as, "I'd go to a game, if they'd win." I can't imagine that such comments and attitudes go unnoticed by our athletes. It must be disheartening to embrace an athletic career with a foreshadowing of doom lurking over. Moreover, I'm not sure all the cynicism is warranted.
I believe the ISU football team has fallen victim to numerous, consecutive poorly played seasons, as well as some landslide defeats. The ISU men's basketball also seem to have suffered some historically poor seasons. I believe this has been discouraging to both the fans and athletes. Moreover, I believe some poor behavior from the male athletes further disheartened the community. The community, however, just seems to be waiting and hoping for a turn around.
It also seems that some defeats in the more publicized sports are preventing the campus community from realizing the strengths of other athletic programs. As a campus, we seem quick to forget some of our successes- winning the 2006 Governor's Cup, producing an Olympic Gold Medalist, and numerous impressive athletic careers. For instance, Natalie Doma who is currently posting some attention-grabbing stats.
For me the thrill of the game isn't in the end result, but in the play of the game. I enjoy watching the mental and physical prowess athletes display. I also have an immense respect for any person brave enough to step into the public realm and compete.
Nor do I recall any expectation of failure from the crowd, however, the expectation of failure seems unavoidable to me now. I hear remarks on campus, such as, "I'd go to a game, if they'd win." I can't imagine that such comments and attitudes go unnoticed by our athletes. It must be disheartening to embrace an athletic career with a foreshadowing of doom lurking over. Moreover, I'm not sure all the cynicism is warranted.
I believe the ISU football team has fallen victim to numerous, consecutive poorly played seasons, as well as some landslide defeats. The ISU men's basketball also seem to have suffered some historically poor seasons. I believe this has been discouraging to both the fans and athletes. Moreover, I believe some poor behavior from the male athletes further disheartened the community. The community, however, just seems to be waiting and hoping for a turn around.
It also seems that some defeats in the more publicized sports are preventing the campus community from realizing the strengths of other athletic programs. As a campus, we seem quick to forget some of our successes- winning the 2006 Governor's Cup, producing an Olympic Gold Medalist, and numerous impressive athletic careers. For instance, Natalie Doma who is currently posting some attention-grabbing stats.
For me the thrill of the game isn't in the end result, but in the play of the game. I enjoy watching the mental and physical prowess athletes display. I also have an immense respect for any person brave enough to step into the public realm and compete.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Fans
I have to agree with Phil about the fan base ( as much as it hurts) ISU would be able to fill Holt if any of the teams could put together a couple of winning seasons. As you look around the arena you can see that the local business do support the Bengals. (even KPVI the home of the Broncos )
How do you create that " Field of Dreams" so the many will come? Would even a break even season bring them, I bet it would.
The Pocatello area, needs a place where the "WHOLE" family can go to and enjoy themselves. A college football, basketball could be a social event for adults and kids alike. Meeting friends, family creates a bond whether you enjoy the game or not.
All we need is a break even season to bring the fans and then continue to improve on the win/lost record to see them stay.
How do you create that " Field of Dreams" so the many will come? Would even a break even season bring them, I bet it would.
The Pocatello area, needs a place where the "WHOLE" family can go to and enjoy themselves. A college football, basketball could be a social event for adults and kids alike. Meeting friends, family creates a bond whether you enjoy the game or not.
All we need is a break even season to bring the fans and then continue to improve on the win/lost record to see them stay.
ISU Athletics
Among the bubbly feelings that brewed in my mind before attending Idaho State, like thoughts of anxiety, nervousness, and uncertainty to name a few, one of the most intriguing things I thought about before attending a decent sized division I school was the opportunities to see the athletic events. A couple of months ago I got my hands on the 2007-08 schedule for our men's and women's basketball teams. You could easily compare my excitement to those kids you see walking out of Albertsons grocery with a sugary substance in hand, I was beside myself! The men put together a powerhouse non-conference schedule with games vs Washington State, at Washington, at UCLA, at Iowa, and at Utah. Those are some prime-time programs! Despite not having beat any of them, it didn't fail to give me a prelude jolt to March Maddness.
The lady Bengals are 10-5 (2-1) and have a couple of key wins over Pac-10 teams in UCLA and Oregon State. I have never enjoyed watching women's basketball, but to be honest, our ladies have given me a whole new perspective that I will definitely want to look into.
Let the games begin, or actually, continue.
The lady Bengals are 10-5 (2-1) and have a couple of key wins over Pac-10 teams in UCLA and Oregon State. I have never enjoyed watching women's basketball, but to be honest, our ladies have given me a whole new perspective that I will definitely want to look into.
Let the games begin, or actually, continue.
Monday, January 14, 2008
ISU athletics
ISU has struggled to produce wins on a consistent basis for the past twenty years. Occasionally one of their teams will rise to the top of the league but it is often short lived. In 2002 the football team tied for first in the conference and a few years later they were forced to fire the coach for losing.
The fan base in Pocatello is often criticised for not supporting the sports programs enough. The reality is that the fans are some of the most loyal supporters around. There is a solid base of fans that have helped ISU stay in the middle of the pack for attendance for schools of their level across the nation. The remarkable thing is that these fans continue to come back despite the obvious lack of progress on the playing field.
The bottom line is ISU is doing fine. They have a solid base and they are located in an area full of band wagon jumpers who are itching at the chance to jump on the ISU band wagon. The key is getting the wagon rolling with a few good seasons in the dome.
The fan base in Pocatello is often criticised for not supporting the sports programs enough. The reality is that the fans are some of the most loyal supporters around. There is a solid base of fans that have helped ISU stay in the middle of the pack for attendance for schools of their level across the nation. The remarkable thing is that these fans continue to come back despite the obvious lack of progress on the playing field.
The bottom line is ISU is doing fine. They have a solid base and they are located in an area full of band wagon jumpers who are itching at the chance to jump on the ISU band wagon. The key is getting the wagon rolling with a few good seasons in the dome.
Bengal Fans
Blakely's post got me thinking about the fan support for the Bengals. I have noticed that a lot of people on campus are busy, or at least good at pretending to be so. I know that juggling work and school is tough, but it is nice to have a chance to stop and enjoy college life as well. It seems that at ISU, we have less students that are wanting to do this. I know that it is most likely because there are a lot of non-traditional students, but it makes me wonder what we can do to change this. I myself am a married, working, commuting student at ISU. I know that there are many more students like me and a lot with even more on their plate. There aren't any big leagues in Idaho and the cost of going to Bengal games is low, it seems like it would be a nice adventure for any student and their family.
In response to prof. S's reply on Blakely's post, I would say that it is our job as reporters to boost fan support through written words of motivation. I think that it is best to remain impartial. We are Bengals though and I think that it is ok for us to root for our team as long as we remain focused on the important details, as with any article.
In response to prof. S's reply on Blakely's post, I would say that it is our job as reporters to boost fan support through written words of motivation. I think that it is best to remain impartial. We are Bengals though and I think that it is ok for us to root for our team as long as we remain focused on the important details, as with any article.
ISU athletics
Pocatello is an ideal town for a college. A loyal consistant fan base is easily aquired in a town such as this. There have been some great teams in ISU's history, as well as some that have not been so good. Living in a small town, a college such as this can have great support from the community in each of the athletic events. The attendance at games is far below what it is capable of.
Seeing larger schools and other athletic teams and the support they receive, we need to realize we are a Division 1 college athletic school also. ISU has the potential to be great with good teams and a loyal fan base. The community and the students have the opportunity to make our school known. With more attendance at games, teams are more likely to compete better. As students and as a community we can take pride in our school and support the student athletes in their talents.
These aspects can only improve the atmosphere of Idaho State Athletics and create a better image.
Seeing larger schools and other athletic teams and the support they receive, we need to realize we are a Division 1 college athletic school also. ISU has the potential to be great with good teams and a loyal fan base. The community and the students have the opportunity to make our school known. With more attendance at games, teams are more likely to compete better. As students and as a community we can take pride in our school and support the student athletes in their talents.
These aspects can only improve the atmosphere of Idaho State Athletics and create a better image.
Syllabus
Idaho State University
MC 299 -- Introduction to Sports Writing
Spring Semester 2008
T-Th 1-2:15 p.m. LA 161
Class Instructor: David Schreindl
James E. Rogers; Dept. of Mass Communication Room 128
Office hours: by appointment or T-Th 3-5
Office Phone: 282-4572
E-mail: schrdave@isu.edu Please use this e-mail address for all assignments and communication about the course.
Course Purpose
If anything is central to the study of and practice of communications it is writing. In its professional application, good, clear writing, with active verbs and a crisp style, is the stock in trade for print, electronic, and broadcast journalists and professionals in public relations, marketing, and advertising. While this course is slanted toward the journalistic approach to sports writing, most of the skills learned are easily transferred to all areas of sports communications. This course is also designed to require you to gather, analyze, and organize information for presentation to a general sports audience in a timely manner. The goal by the end of the semester is ultimately to give you real world experience and gives you help to understand the challenges faced as a sports reporter.
Course Format
Writing and reporting are skills that can be improved only through constant practice. It is this knowledge that has led this course to be designed in a manner that will give you multiple opportunities to gain skills through writing.
Required Texts: The Associated Press Sports Writing Handbook by Steve Wilstein / Paperback / Aug 2001 / ISBN 0071372180
The Associated Press Stylebook and Briefing on Media Law, Norm Goldstein, editor, Cambridge, Mass.: Perseus Publishing, 2004, 5, 6.
Sports Journalism: A Practical Introduction by Phil Andrews / Paperback / Apr 2005 ISBN 1412902711
Sports Journalism: Context and Issues by Raymond Boyle / paperback/ 2006/ ISBN 1-4129-0798-5
USA Today (newspaper)/Online Version
Backing up work: It is suggested that all students back up their work.
Grading: Your grade will be based on the number of points you earn throughout the term. There are 700 points possible. Please record all of your grades on the attached grade record sheet. Save hard copies of all returned assignments in a personal file until final grades have been posted at the end of the semester. This protects you against possible grade loss.
Other requirements: Read The Bengal, Idaho State Journal and other online or hard copy newspapers. Watch or listen to sportscasts such as those on ABC, NBC, CBS, and ESPN and Fox Sports.
Attendance: I will follow the departmental guidelines on attending class, which means that you can miss no more than three lectures before I will lower your final grade one letter and five missed classes will result in a zero for the course.
THERE ARE NO MAKEUPS for those who miss class without proper notification.
You must speak with me and make arrangements at least TWO HOURS BEFORE missing a class period. Notification by e-mail or voice mail is not sufficient unless it is time stamped 2 hours prior to the start of class. I have the discretion to dock points for students who arrive late to class frequently.
Participation: There are points (50) associated with attendance and participation. With only a maximum of 15 students, you won’t be able to hide and sports journalism, like other forms of journalism, is not for the shy. It is expected that you provide your opinion and speak up in class. As the sportscaster Jim Rome likes to say “Have a take and don’t suck.” While I’m not as grating as he can be I expect you to have a take every class period. That’s the beauty of sports journalism is that you are expected to have an opinion and you have an outlet to share it. Coming to class unprepared to participate will result in lost points and is up to the instructors discretion how to handle the situation.
Late assignments: Late assignments will not be accepted and there will be no makeups, no exceptions. You are adults preparing for employment in the journalism field where late or missed assignments are not tolerated and often result in termination of employment. Please see “Deadlines” policy statement policy. Problems will arise so do not wait until the assignment is due to ask for help.
Sources: Please only use only original interviewed sources for assignments that require evaluation of news reporting. Do not lift quotes or information from any other media source. Do not use roommates or family members as sources in reporting assignments. *For all sources please provide names and phone numbers for verification purposes at the end of the assignment.*
Deadlines
The Mass Communication Journalism faculty have identified meeting deadlines as a significant learning outcome for this class. This learning outcome reflects the fact that the communications industries are deadline-driven and that meeting deadlines is an essential component of this program. The content of this class is intended to help you be prepared for this demand of the work world. The ISU faculty have determined that in classes teaching to this learning outcome, such as this one, the ability to meet deadlines is essential and will not be waived, modified or accommodated, except in rare cases to be determined by the instructor. In deciding whether extra time will be given for an assignment in this class, the instructor will apply a professional standard such as whether an extension would be reasonable in a professional setting.
Course courtesy
Please turn off cell phones during lectures and labs. Please do not check e-mail, do outside work, play games or surf the Web during labs unless directed as part of an assignment. Please avoid conversations and excessive talking during lectures other than as part of the class discussion. However, please feel free to bring up topics of interest from your reading, assignments and homework during the course for discussion. Please avoid leaving lectures early and arriving late.
Other Course policies:
You are expected to participate in class. Inappropriate behavior such as reading non-course materials, checking email, instant or text messaging, studying for other classes, sleeping, or surfing the web will result in dismissal from the day’s class and count as an unexcused absence and any points for the day will be subtracted.
Grading scale
Percent Letter grade
93.3 A
90 A-
86.3 B+
83.3 B
80 B-
76.3 C+
73.3 C
70 C-
66.3 D+
63.3 D
60 D-
MC 299 ASSIGNMENT CALENDAR
When due Points Possible Score
Assignments
Weekly Blog Every Week 10 X 15 weeks = 150
Weekly Blog response Every Week 10 X 15 weeks = 150
In-class Blog Presentations (three) As called upon 30 (10 each)
Professional Interest Paper Thursday Jan 17 10
Article critique 1 Jan 31 50
Television critique Feb 7 50
Article critique 2 Feb 21 50
Online Journalism Critique Feb 28 30
Game Story 1 Mar 6 20
Movie Review Mar 13 15
Sports Column Mar 20 15
Feature Story April 10 15
Game Story 2 April 23 15
Final project Book Review May 8 5 p.m. 50
Attendance and Participation 30
Book Review presentations April 17, 22, 24 20
Total 700
Explanation of Assignments
All assignments are to be typed in 12 point Times Roman and double spaced. The audience for your assignments are the students and fans of Idaho State University athletics.
Weekly Blog – I have set up a blog for this class that you will all become members of in order to complete this assignment. Your task is to write an opinion piece (surf the web to get ideas from other blogs) or blog about any topic of your choosing regarding Idaho State University Athletics. Now if you want to use this site to also comment on national sporting events and happenings you are more than welcome to do so. However, I will only be counting the blog entries on ISU sports for grading purposes. Your blog should be well thought out before it is written. The entry should be from 150-300 words but can be more. Remember anyone and not just members of this class can read this blog. The desired goal of this blog can develop into a forum for the campus and allow students and alumni and faculty to get involved. This blog can also be used as resume material when looking for a job.
Weekly Blog Response – In the same vein, you are required to respond to at least one entry from one of your classmates once a week. Remember to be respectful and try not to write or take anything personal. You are also more than welcome to respond to more than one entry each week.
In Class Blog Presentation – Thrice throughout the semester you will be called upon to lead a brief class discussion on one of you blog entries.
Professional Interest Paper – In a page or two outline several of your goals and aspirations surrounding sports journalism. Outline what you think sports journalism as well as tell me what you expect to learn from this class.
Online Journalism Critique – I want a two to three page review of a blog or story or sports package found on the web such as on the sites of ESPN or Yahoo. I want you to tell me the good and bad, what you learned from it, and what you might do differently.
Television critique – I want a two to three page review of a sports cast on television as seen on ESPN, Fox Sports or a local news channel. I want you to tell me the good and bad, what you learned from it, and what you might do differently.
Article critique 1 & 2 -- I want a two to three page review of a newspaper or magazine sports story. I want you to tell me the good and bad, what you learned from it, and what you might do differently. For all four critiques you need to summarize the article and answer the following: why did it grab your attention, why is it newsworthy, who’s the audience, is it fair and balanced, were the main topic questions answered, were there holes in the story, would you write it differently, were the quotes used effectively, stats used properly or at all, and as an editor what would be your follow-up assignment.
Feature/Enterprise Story – You will be required to write a feature article on a sporting event or sports figure or sporting trend. You will be required to conduct interviews with at least two or more sources. The story should be at least 600 words (about two pages 12 pt Times Roman double spaced). You are encouraged to seek publication of your article or post it to the class blog. (This one may be done broadcast style)
Game Story 1 & 2 – You will need to attend two sporting events of your choosing but will need to sign up which event you will attend so that we avoid having more than two students at the same sporting event. Each story needs to be at least 500 words and have interviews from at least two sources including coaches and athletes. You are encouraged to seek publication of your article and must post it to the class blog. (One of these may be done broadcast style with my permission) One of these stories may also be a high school sporting event.
Sports Column – You will write a sports column of no less than 400 words on any topic of your choosing. You are encouraged to seek publication of your article and must post it to the class blog.
Movie Review -- I want you to watch a movie or a television program (example: Bronx is Burning or Sports Night) that looks at both sports and journalism. I want a minimum 300-word review (1 page) looking at how sports journalists are portrayed and how the general public’s opinions might be changed or reinforced as a result of watching the program. This also must be posted to the blog.
Class Presentation – You will need to present a 5-10 minute outline of the book you read and what you learned. You can also talk about what you have learned overall from this class.
Book Review – I want a 4 to 10 page review of a book of your choice. But you need to ok the book with me before starting. I’m not looking for anything fancy just a run of the mill book review. However, you do need to include your thoughts and opinions on how you feel the reading experience changed your perception of sports reporting. Below are some suggestions:
• Stop the Presses (So I Can Get Off): Tales from Forty Years of Sportswriting by Clyde Bolton / Oct 2005
• The Brushback Report All the Sports News That's Unfit to Print by Dave Saraiva / Aug 2006
• Real Sports Reporting by Abraham Aamidor / Paperback / Oct 2003
• Sports Journalism A Multimedia Primer by Rob Steen / Paperback / Oct 2007
• Inside the Sports Pages by Mark Douglas Lowes; Robert A. Stebbins / Paperback / Mar 1999
• Anything by Rick Reilly
• No Time Outs: What its really like to be a Sports Writer Today by Christopher Walsh
• The Best American Sports Writing of the Century by David Halberstam
• Now I can Die in Peace by Bill Simmons
• Sports Writing: The Lively Game by Conrad Fink
• Sports Illustrated Reality by Leonard Koppett
Course overview
The following is a tentative overview including topics, assignments and deadlines. This syllabus is a good-faith effort to describe the quarter’s plans, but the instructor reserves the right to change the schedule or modify the content to enhance learning. The instructor will notify students in advance of any changes. Any updates will be announced in lectures and through the Blackboard Web site. Absent students must find out about changes and comply with the new deadlines.
AP=Wilstein; B=Boyle; A=Andrews book in regards to reading assignments
Week Lecture/Reading
(Readings due before lecture) Lecture/Reading
(Readings due before lecture) Homework
Week 1
1/14-19 Tue Jan 15
Course intro-syllabus Thu Jan 17
Blogging
A-1,10; B-6; AP-1 Blog; Blog Response Professional Interst Paper
Week 2
21-25 Tue Jan 22
Organizing a story/Leads Thu Jan 24
Organizations/relationships
AP-5; Sports and Society-12 Blog; Blog Response
Week 3
1/28-2/1 Tue Jan 29
Interviewing
A-8, AP-6 Thu Jan 31
Interviewing/Sources
A-4 Blog; Blog Response
Article One Critique
Week 4
2/4-8 Tue Feb 5
Beats
AP 2,3 Thu Feb 7
Print reporting
A-5 Blog; Blog Response
Television Critique
Week 5
11-15 Tue Feb 12
AP Style
AP style sports section Thu Feb 14
Broadcast reporting Blog; Blog Response
Week 6
18-22 Tue Feb 19
Sports Photography
A-6 Thu Feb 21
Columns
AP-4 Blog; Blog Response
Article two Critique
Week 7
2/25-29 Tue Feb 26
Features Thu Feb 28
Critiques Blog; Blog Response
Online Journalism Critique
Week 8
3/3-7 Tue Mar 4
Advanced Reporting
AP-7 Thu Mar 6
Sports Public Relations Blog; Blog Response
Game Story #1
Week 9
10-14 Tue Mar 11
Sports Marketing Thu Mar 13
Issues in sports Blog; Blog Response
Movie Review
Week 10
17-21 Tue Mar 18
Issues in Sports Thu Mar 20
Trends Blog; Blog Response
Sports Column
Week 11
24-28 Tue Mar 25
Spring break Thu Mar 27
Spring break Blog; Blog Response
Week 12
3/31-4/4 Tue April 1
Ethics Thu Apr 3
Ethics Blog; Blog Response
Week 13
7-11 Tue Apr 8
Gender Thu Apr 10
Books/Movies Blog; Blog Response
Feature Story
Week 14
14-18 Tue Apr 15
Getting a job
Ap-Chapter 8 Thu Apr 17
Class Presentations Blog; Blog Response
Week 15
21-25 Tue Apr 22
Class Presentations Thu Apr 24
Evals and Presentations Blog; Blog Response
Game Story #2
Week 16
4/28-5/2 Tue April 29
No class closed week Thu May 1
No class closed week
Week 17
5/3-9 finals May 8
Final Project Book Review due by 5 p.m. to my email (if you want a hard copy returned to you please provided one to my mailbox prior to 5 p.m. There is no penalty for turning it in early
MC 299 -- Introduction to Sports Writing
Spring Semester 2008
T-Th 1-2:15 p.m. LA 161
Class Instructor: David Schreindl
James E. Rogers; Dept. of Mass Communication Room 128
Office hours: by appointment or T-Th 3-5
Office Phone: 282-4572
E-mail: schrdave@isu.edu Please use this e-mail address for all assignments and communication about the course.
Course Purpose
If anything is central to the study of and practice of communications it is writing. In its professional application, good, clear writing, with active verbs and a crisp style, is the stock in trade for print, electronic, and broadcast journalists and professionals in public relations, marketing, and advertising. While this course is slanted toward the journalistic approach to sports writing, most of the skills learned are easily transferred to all areas of sports communications. This course is also designed to require you to gather, analyze, and organize information for presentation to a general sports audience in a timely manner. The goal by the end of the semester is ultimately to give you real world experience and gives you help to understand the challenges faced as a sports reporter.
Course Format
Writing and reporting are skills that can be improved only through constant practice. It is this knowledge that has led this course to be designed in a manner that will give you multiple opportunities to gain skills through writing.
Required Texts: The Associated Press Sports Writing Handbook by Steve Wilstein / Paperback / Aug 2001 / ISBN 0071372180
The Associated Press Stylebook and Briefing on Media Law, Norm Goldstein, editor, Cambridge, Mass.: Perseus Publishing, 2004, 5, 6.
Sports Journalism: A Practical Introduction by Phil Andrews / Paperback / Apr 2005 ISBN 1412902711
Sports Journalism: Context and Issues by Raymond Boyle / paperback/ 2006/ ISBN 1-4129-0798-5
USA Today (newspaper)/Online Version
Backing up work: It is suggested that all students back up their work.
Grading: Your grade will be based on the number of points you earn throughout the term. There are 700 points possible. Please record all of your grades on the attached grade record sheet. Save hard copies of all returned assignments in a personal file until final grades have been posted at the end of the semester. This protects you against possible grade loss.
Other requirements: Read The Bengal, Idaho State Journal and other online or hard copy newspapers. Watch or listen to sportscasts such as those on ABC, NBC, CBS, and ESPN and Fox Sports.
Attendance: I will follow the departmental guidelines on attending class, which means that you can miss no more than three lectures before I will lower your final grade one letter and five missed classes will result in a zero for the course.
THERE ARE NO MAKEUPS for those who miss class without proper notification.
You must speak with me and make arrangements at least TWO HOURS BEFORE missing a class period. Notification by e-mail or voice mail is not sufficient unless it is time stamped 2 hours prior to the start of class. I have the discretion to dock points for students who arrive late to class frequently.
Participation: There are points (50) associated with attendance and participation. With only a maximum of 15 students, you won’t be able to hide and sports journalism, like other forms of journalism, is not for the shy. It is expected that you provide your opinion and speak up in class. As the sportscaster Jim Rome likes to say “Have a take and don’t suck.” While I’m not as grating as he can be I expect you to have a take every class period. That’s the beauty of sports journalism is that you are expected to have an opinion and you have an outlet to share it. Coming to class unprepared to participate will result in lost points and is up to the instructors discretion how to handle the situation.
Late assignments: Late assignments will not be accepted and there will be no makeups, no exceptions. You are adults preparing for employment in the journalism field where late or missed assignments are not tolerated and often result in termination of employment. Please see “Deadlines” policy statement policy. Problems will arise so do not wait until the assignment is due to ask for help.
Sources: Please only use only original interviewed sources for assignments that require evaluation of news reporting. Do not lift quotes or information from any other media source. Do not use roommates or family members as sources in reporting assignments. *For all sources please provide names and phone numbers for verification purposes at the end of the assignment.*
Deadlines
The Mass Communication Journalism faculty have identified meeting deadlines as a significant learning outcome for this class. This learning outcome reflects the fact that the communications industries are deadline-driven and that meeting deadlines is an essential component of this program. The content of this class is intended to help you be prepared for this demand of the work world. The ISU faculty have determined that in classes teaching to this learning outcome, such as this one, the ability to meet deadlines is essential and will not be waived, modified or accommodated, except in rare cases to be determined by the instructor. In deciding whether extra time will be given for an assignment in this class, the instructor will apply a professional standard such as whether an extension would be reasonable in a professional setting.
Course courtesy
Please turn off cell phones during lectures and labs. Please do not check e-mail, do outside work, play games or surf the Web during labs unless directed as part of an assignment. Please avoid conversations and excessive talking during lectures other than as part of the class discussion. However, please feel free to bring up topics of interest from your reading, assignments and homework during the course for discussion. Please avoid leaving lectures early and arriving late.
Other Course policies:
You are expected to participate in class. Inappropriate behavior such as reading non-course materials, checking email, instant or text messaging, studying for other classes, sleeping, or surfing the web will result in dismissal from the day’s class and count as an unexcused absence and any points for the day will be subtracted.
Grading scale
Percent Letter grade
93.3 A
90 A-
86.3 B+
83.3 B
80 B-
76.3 C+
73.3 C
70 C-
66.3 D+
63.3 D
60 D-
MC 299 ASSIGNMENT CALENDAR
When due Points Possible Score
Assignments
Weekly Blog Every Week 10 X 15 weeks = 150
Weekly Blog response Every Week 10 X 15 weeks = 150
In-class Blog Presentations (three) As called upon 30 (10 each)
Professional Interest Paper Thursday Jan 17 10
Article critique 1 Jan 31 50
Television critique Feb 7 50
Article critique 2 Feb 21 50
Online Journalism Critique Feb 28 30
Game Story 1 Mar 6 20
Movie Review Mar 13 15
Sports Column Mar 20 15
Feature Story April 10 15
Game Story 2 April 23 15
Final project Book Review May 8 5 p.m. 50
Attendance and Participation 30
Book Review presentations April 17, 22, 24 20
Total 700
Explanation of Assignments
All assignments are to be typed in 12 point Times Roman and double spaced. The audience for your assignments are the students and fans of Idaho State University athletics.
Weekly Blog – I have set up a blog for this class that you will all become members of in order to complete this assignment. Your task is to write an opinion piece (surf the web to get ideas from other blogs) or blog about any topic of your choosing regarding Idaho State University Athletics. Now if you want to use this site to also comment on national sporting events and happenings you are more than welcome to do so. However, I will only be counting the blog entries on ISU sports for grading purposes. Your blog should be well thought out before it is written. The entry should be from 150-300 words but can be more. Remember anyone and not just members of this class can read this blog. The desired goal of this blog can develop into a forum for the campus and allow students and alumni and faculty to get involved. This blog can also be used as resume material when looking for a job.
Weekly Blog Response – In the same vein, you are required to respond to at least one entry from one of your classmates once a week. Remember to be respectful and try not to write or take anything personal. You are also more than welcome to respond to more than one entry each week.
In Class Blog Presentation – Thrice throughout the semester you will be called upon to lead a brief class discussion on one of you blog entries.
Professional Interest Paper – In a page or two outline several of your goals and aspirations surrounding sports journalism. Outline what you think sports journalism as well as tell me what you expect to learn from this class.
Online Journalism Critique – I want a two to three page review of a blog or story or sports package found on the web such as on the sites of ESPN or Yahoo. I want you to tell me the good and bad, what you learned from it, and what you might do differently.
Television critique – I want a two to three page review of a sports cast on television as seen on ESPN, Fox Sports or a local news channel. I want you to tell me the good and bad, what you learned from it, and what you might do differently.
Article critique 1 & 2 -- I want a two to three page review of a newspaper or magazine sports story. I want you to tell me the good and bad, what you learned from it, and what you might do differently. For all four critiques you need to summarize the article and answer the following: why did it grab your attention, why is it newsworthy, who’s the audience, is it fair and balanced, were the main topic questions answered, were there holes in the story, would you write it differently, were the quotes used effectively, stats used properly or at all, and as an editor what would be your follow-up assignment.
Feature/Enterprise Story – You will be required to write a feature article on a sporting event or sports figure or sporting trend. You will be required to conduct interviews with at least two or more sources. The story should be at least 600 words (about two pages 12 pt Times Roman double spaced). You are encouraged to seek publication of your article or post it to the class blog. (This one may be done broadcast style)
Game Story 1 & 2 – You will need to attend two sporting events of your choosing but will need to sign up which event you will attend so that we avoid having more than two students at the same sporting event. Each story needs to be at least 500 words and have interviews from at least two sources including coaches and athletes. You are encouraged to seek publication of your article and must post it to the class blog. (One of these may be done broadcast style with my permission) One of these stories may also be a high school sporting event.
Sports Column – You will write a sports column of no less than 400 words on any topic of your choosing. You are encouraged to seek publication of your article and must post it to the class blog.
Movie Review -- I want you to watch a movie or a television program (example: Bronx is Burning or Sports Night) that looks at both sports and journalism. I want a minimum 300-word review (1 page) looking at how sports journalists are portrayed and how the general public’s opinions might be changed or reinforced as a result of watching the program. This also must be posted to the blog.
Class Presentation – You will need to present a 5-10 minute outline of the book you read and what you learned. You can also talk about what you have learned overall from this class.
Book Review – I want a 4 to 10 page review of a book of your choice. But you need to ok the book with me before starting. I’m not looking for anything fancy just a run of the mill book review. However, you do need to include your thoughts and opinions on how you feel the reading experience changed your perception of sports reporting. Below are some suggestions:
• Stop the Presses (So I Can Get Off): Tales from Forty Years of Sportswriting by Clyde Bolton / Oct 2005
• The Brushback Report All the Sports News That's Unfit to Print by Dave Saraiva / Aug 2006
• Real Sports Reporting by Abraham Aamidor / Paperback / Oct 2003
• Sports Journalism A Multimedia Primer by Rob Steen / Paperback / Oct 2007
• Inside the Sports Pages by Mark Douglas Lowes; Robert A. Stebbins / Paperback / Mar 1999
• Anything by Rick Reilly
• No Time Outs: What its really like to be a Sports Writer Today by Christopher Walsh
• The Best American Sports Writing of the Century by David Halberstam
• Now I can Die in Peace by Bill Simmons
• Sports Writing: The Lively Game by Conrad Fink
• Sports Illustrated Reality by Leonard Koppett
Course overview
The following is a tentative overview including topics, assignments and deadlines. This syllabus is a good-faith effort to describe the quarter’s plans, but the instructor reserves the right to change the schedule or modify the content to enhance learning. The instructor will notify students in advance of any changes. Any updates will be announced in lectures and through the Blackboard Web site. Absent students must find out about changes and comply with the new deadlines.
AP=Wilstein; B=Boyle; A=Andrews book in regards to reading assignments
Week Lecture/Reading
(Readings due before lecture) Lecture/Reading
(Readings due before lecture) Homework
Week 1
1/14-19 Tue Jan 15
Course intro-syllabus Thu Jan 17
Blogging
A-1,10; B-6; AP-1 Blog; Blog Response Professional Interst Paper
Week 2
21-25 Tue Jan 22
Organizing a story/Leads Thu Jan 24
Organizations/relationships
AP-5; Sports and Society-12 Blog; Blog Response
Week 3
1/28-2/1 Tue Jan 29
Interviewing
A-8, AP-6 Thu Jan 31
Interviewing/Sources
A-4 Blog; Blog Response
Article One Critique
Week 4
2/4-8 Tue Feb 5
Beats
AP 2,3 Thu Feb 7
Print reporting
A-5 Blog; Blog Response
Television Critique
Week 5
11-15 Tue Feb 12
AP Style
AP style sports section Thu Feb 14
Broadcast reporting Blog; Blog Response
Week 6
18-22 Tue Feb 19
Sports Photography
A-6 Thu Feb 21
Columns
AP-4 Blog; Blog Response
Article two Critique
Week 7
2/25-29 Tue Feb 26
Features Thu Feb 28
Critiques Blog; Blog Response
Online Journalism Critique
Week 8
3/3-7 Tue Mar 4
Advanced Reporting
AP-7 Thu Mar 6
Sports Public Relations Blog; Blog Response
Game Story #1
Week 9
10-14 Tue Mar 11
Sports Marketing Thu Mar 13
Issues in sports Blog; Blog Response
Movie Review
Week 10
17-21 Tue Mar 18
Issues in Sports Thu Mar 20
Trends Blog; Blog Response
Sports Column
Week 11
24-28 Tue Mar 25
Spring break Thu Mar 27
Spring break Blog; Blog Response
Week 12
3/31-4/4 Tue April 1
Ethics Thu Apr 3
Ethics Blog; Blog Response
Week 13
7-11 Tue Apr 8
Gender Thu Apr 10
Books/Movies Blog; Blog Response
Feature Story
Week 14
14-18 Tue Apr 15
Getting a job
Ap-Chapter 8 Thu Apr 17
Class Presentations Blog; Blog Response
Week 15
21-25 Tue Apr 22
Class Presentations Thu Apr 24
Evals and Presentations Blog; Blog Response
Game Story #2
Week 16
4/28-5/2 Tue April 29
No class closed week Thu May 1
No class closed week
Week 17
5/3-9 finals May 8
Final Project Book Review due by 5 p.m. to my email (if you want a hard copy returned to you please provided one to my mailbox prior to 5 p.m. There is no penalty for turning it in early
ISU Sports
I play catcher for the ISU Baseball Club. I feel baseball should be a school sport. We are ranked 32 in the nation in the NCBA polls. We took second in the Northern Pacific Conference last Spring and look to have another good season this Spring. The team raises money every fall and winter for new uniforms, travel expenses, gas, etc. The baseball team should be part of ISU athletics.
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