Sacks & Give Backs- The NFL Gives Back to the Community

We all watched the ESPY’s, am I right?

Let’s talk about the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. The Walter Payton Man of the Year Award is an award based on humanitarianism while being an extraordinary individual on and off the field.

Congratulations to all the nominees, Anquan Boldin from the 49ers, Aaron Rodgers from the Packers and lastly, a huge congrats to the winner, Thomas Davis from the Panthers.

Anquan Boldin, one of the most trustworthy wide receivers in the game plays for the San Francisco 49ers and was runner up for the award. He was nominated for the award due to his mission to give back to the underprivileged youth.

The Anquan Boldin Foundation started in 2004, and just last year, Boldin and his wife gave a staggering $1 million donation to the foundation to expand their impact.

Throughout Boldin’s career, 11 students have accepted four-year scholarships. Alone in 2014, four students received $10,000 scholarships to start their college careers. Boldin travels to third-world countries to lend personal aid and fight for political issues. Seriously? That’s how he spends his off season? What. A. Guy.

Now I don’t care if you’re a Bears fan or a what, here’s another player you have to show some respect for: Aaron Rodgers.

Photo: NFL

Rodgers the star quarterback for the Green Bay Packers was also a runner up for the award. He was nominated due to his constant and ever-giving attitude to children and young adults.

Rodgers has worked directly with Midwest Athletes Against Childhood Cancer and Make-A-Wish. Just recently he surpassed giving back $1.5 million of his personal efforts such as events and campaigns. He also has co-created an organization called www.itsaaron.com that works directly with charities and builds support in making a difference nationwide. Literally so presh. Shout out: Aaron, we love you!

Thomas Davis, linebacker for the Carolina Panthers received the Walter Payton Man of the Year award at the ESPY’s this year. And he deserved it.

Photo: Panthers

Davis and his wife founded the Thomas Davis Defending Dreams Foundation, a non-profit that was established to enrich the lives of underprivileged children and families. This organization provides mentoring programs and community outreach programs that include holiday activities and meals for children and women in Charlotte, North Carolina.Not only has Davis found his niche in giving back to the community, the Panthers have proved as well that they are fit for task as well by donating $100,000 to victims of the Charleston shooting victims.

Respect.

Not only do individuals of the National Football League give back, but full on NFL teams participate within the community as well, and contrary to popular belief, not because they’re forced to.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers put on “Bucs Cut for a Cure” where players such as the No.1 draft pick Jameis Winston sat in a chair and let children with cancer shave their heads in an effort to fight pediatric cancer.

Photo: WFLA

The Carolina Panthers put on a “Moms’ Safety” clinic designed to help women who have children who play football. They teach them the safety of proper gear, hydration and how to make it a family and team effort to make sure that safety is a priority on the field.

The Houston Texans hosted the world’s largest kids triathlon that was present by Texas Children’s Hospital in an effort to educate children about staying active and healthy.

The Kansas City Chiefs hosted a Play 60 celebration for local elementary school students which honored children for their commitment to exercise, sports and a healthy lifestyle.The Indianapolis Colts teamed up with country music star Garth Brooks in celebrating the opening of the Child Life Zone at Riley Hospital for Children.

Photo: NY Daily News

Country music and charity? Game on.

These are just a few small examples of how much the NFL does in fact, give back to their surrounding communities. So maybe it’s time we take a page out of their book and do a little help ourselves?!

Not going to lie, I’d love to watch a little guy shave off Tom Brady’s luscious locks just to see the look on his face once they were gone. What? That was only for Tampa Bay? Whatever, a girl can dream can’t she.

– Carly

Yeah, They’re a Dynasty- Blackhawks Win Third Stanley Cup

Monday night the Chicago Blackhawks won their third Stanley Cup since 2010 beating the Tampa Bay Lightning 2-0 and winning the series 4-2.

Although this was their third Stanley Cup in the last six seasons, it was the first time since 1938 the Blackhawks were able to win the cup on their home ice in the windy city. Duncan Keith raised the Conn Smythe Trophy for playoff MVP recording 21 points and a playoff high 18 assists.

It was revealed that Ben Bishop, the goalie for the Tampa Bay Lightning had a torn groin, which he suffered in Game 2. Bishop was able to play through the injury for Game 3, sat Game 4 and then came back for the remainder of the series. Tyler Johnson, the centerpiece of the Lightning’s “triplet” line also revealed that he was playing with a broken wrist.

Blackhawks Captain Jonathan Toews, Photo: USA Today

The series between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Tampa Bay Lightning was extremely close. During the first five games of the series no team went ahead by more than one goal, until Patrick Kane scored his first goal of the series with a 5:14 left to play in the third period.

The Blackhawks became the first team since the 2002 Detroit Red Wings to win three Stanley Cups in six years. The Red Wings won in 1997, 1998 and 2002. With this Stanley Cup victory, the Blackhawks were able to solidify themselves as a dynasty in the NHL for the better part of a decade.

What’s scary about this Blackhawks team is that they are still young and have the potential to dominate the league for years to come. Their roster only contains four players over the age of 35 and both star players Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews are both under 30 years old. It should be interesting to see how the Blackhawks shape their team for next season following salary cap negotiations this off-season.

– Morgan

Exclusive! MCM: Chris Conte

 

Ayeeee, it’s Monday and we got a crush for you.

Meet Chris Conte, Tampa Bay Buccaneers Safety.

Conte played ball at CAL where he was then drafted in the third round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears. Conte spent his past four seasons playing for the Bears, where he played in 57 of a possible 64 games, starting 52 of them. Conte tallied 180 tackles, nine interceptions, 21 passes defensed, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery during his time with the Bears. Not too shabby!

Standing at 6’2 and 203 lbs, Conte’s got a rockin’ bod and he’s fast too- Runs a 4.5secs 40.

We got the scoop from Conte about who he admired as a child (you’ll recognize this former pro’s name) and where he likes to spend the off season.

Catch him if you can ladies- TCD’s #MCM…

CHRIS CONTE !

Thanks for giving us all the dirty deets Conte and being this week’s MCM for The Coach’s Daughters!

Until next time,

Remember the Name- MLB Players Who Are Killing it

Article published June 10, 2015- all stats up to date as of then

Yes. My favorite thing to talk about.

Baseball is a team sport, but let’s be real, every team has that one player that every fan knows of. With the season rolling along and the all-star game (half-way through the season) approaching, I figured we’d take a look at the big names putting the team on their back, Greg Jennings style.

Adrian Gonzalez, Los Angeles Dodgers

Gonzalez is all over the stats board for the Dodgers. He is in the top of all offensive categories with a .324 batting average, 11 HR, 39 RBIs and has an OPS of .985. He is an extra-base hitting machine, delivering doubles left and right in clutch situations. The Dodgers are first in the NL West and can thank their all-star game bound first baseman for his contributions to the team.

Brian Dozier, Minnesota Twins

The Twins are in second place in the AL Central with a record of 33-26, just trailing the Kansas City Royals. Brian Dozier has stepped up big time and can be thought of as the best second baseman in the AL. He is batting .265, has 11 HR, 28 RBIs and an OPS of .863. He also leads the MLB with 47 runs. Not only can he perform at the plate, he is great in the field.

Bryce Harper, Washington Nationals

The question is what can’t Harper do? Not only can he chase down baseballs in the outfield and throw runners out, Harper is a threat at the plate. He is batting .330 and leading the MLB with 20 HR (yes, I said TWENTY) and OPS of 1.187. OW, OW! Harper has also knocked in 47 RBIs helping his team move to first place in the NL East at 31-28. With the numbers to show, Harper has proved this season he can hit any pitch from any pitcher. Harper is playing “put your money where your mouth is” kind of ball.

Chris Archer, Tampa Bay Rays

Talk about an ace! Archer seems pretty much untouchable. He is 7-4 with a 1.84 ERA and leading the MLB with 108 strikeouts. He surely is doing all he can to keep his team in the race, as they trail the New York Yankees by 1.5 games. With Archer’s crazy ability to find the strike zone, you hardly ever see this guy walk a batter. It’s not even all-star break yet and he is already going down in history for what he has done this season.

Dallas Keuchel, Houston Astros

Can Keuchel pitch every night? He can be thought of as one of the best pitchers in the AL. No, I am not being biased – he has been named the AL pitcher of the month for April and May. He is 7-2 with an ERA of 1.9 and 72 strikeouts. He has been dominant all year and is a big reason why the Astros are in first place in the AL West. Keep your eyes on Keuchel to see if he will be the starting pitcher in this years all-star game.

Eric Hosmer, Kansas City Royals

Hosmer really emerged last season when he helped his team to the World Series. This season he is looking to do the same, and he is off to the best start of his career. He is hitting .301 with 7 HR and an OPS of .859. Although Hosmer is not always the long-ball hitter, he is efficient at the plate with 35 RBIs. On top of his stats, Hosmer is the backbone of the Royals composure on the field and in the clubhouse – just the type of player you would want on your team.

Jacob deGrom, New York Mets

Last year’s NL Rookie of the Year is off to a great start again. deGrom is 7-4 with an ERA of 2.42 and 81 strikeouts. This season he has taken a perfect game into the sixth-inning and although he could not pull that gem off, he showed everyone what he was capable of. He also has the ability to settle down after a rough start – something all baseball fans want their pitchers to be able to do. The Mets are second in the NL East and look to deGrom to keep pitching well.

Jhonny Peralta, St. Louis Cardinals

The best team in the MLB (39-21) has many weapons but there’s one in particular. Peralta is leading the Cardinals in almost all offensive categories. He is batting .315, has 10 HR, 35 RBIs and a .900 OPS. He also leads the team with 69 hits. Peralta is the go-to guy to get a rally going, which is what he did recently to beat the Los Angeles Dodgers. He also is great on the field making plays at shortstop look too easy.

Mark Teixeira, New York Yankees

The Yankees are in a close race with the Tampa Bay Rays, but Teixeira is doing all he can to keep them in the top spot. He is batting .238 with 17 HR and a .917 OPS. His batting average is not as high as he is capable of, but with 45 RBIs he proves that he can pull through in the right situations.

Prince Fielder, Texas Rangers

Coming back from an injury-ending season, Fielder is on a roll and proving why the Rangers paid the big bucks for him. He is hitting .354, has 10 HR, 41 RBIs and an OPS of .953. Oh, and he has 81 hits. Not too shabby. Fielder has also come up with a couple of walk off wins, helping the Rangers pull within two games behind the AL West leading Astros. Good news for the Rangers that they got this “Fielder” back.

With the first half of the season almost in the books, it’s time for teams to focus on their play-off push. It is a long season but EVERY GAME COUNTS. Look for these big names to hopefully take their team into October and win the pennant.

But let’s be real. Hopefully I will be sipping some World Series champagne – Go Astros!

XO!

– Paige

If “Darrin’s Dance Grooves” Was a Child? We Think So.

In the theme of NFL Cheerleaders… We give you this child prodigy dancing with the Tampa Bay Bucs cheerleaders.

Just wait until the beat drops around :50 seconds… Moves are so on point. Too damn good.

The 10 Hottest NFL Cheer Teams

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL?!

Because, DAMN, we are!

Just to get everyone excited for the upcoming football season, (yes, that includes you non-football folk who actually have no clue what’s going on) we present to you something everyone can enjoy about the football season: the cheerleaders.

Here are the 10 Hottest NFL Cheer Teams to let your eyes wander to for a play (or two) this upcoming season!

10. Arizona Cardinals 

They certainly provide a morale boost from their sidelines! Their unique uniform is part of what makes them so sexy and feisty. They’ve had great team spirit over the years. We got spirit, yes we do!

9. Atlanta Falcons 

(David T. Foster III/Charlotte Observer/MCT) Charlotte Observer/ MCT /LANDOV

Want to find your wifey? These girls are certainly the ones. According to Yahoo Sports, these girls contracts state they, “must have full-time jobs or [be] pursuing a college degree.” In other words, these gals are the full package deal.

8. New England Patriots 

UPI/Matthew Healey /LANDOV

No wonder they are consistently one of the top teams in the NFL. They can rep that red white and blue any day of the week! Mericuh!

7. Philadelphia Eagles 

Who couldn’t throw the ball 60 yards downfield if you could play in front of these girls every day! These girls are charmers for sure, so what’s not to love?

6. Oakland Raiderettes

Their stadium may have changed, but the fans love of the Raiderette cheerleaders certainly has not.  According to Crawford-Carnegie of Yahoo Sports, “The Oakland Raiderettes’ are the hottest NFL squad this season.”

5. Tennessee Titans 

The Titans Cheerleaders annual calendar shoot explains why they earned spot number five. They are still as scorching as ever in bikinis. Look at that cover shot. Call me maybe?

4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 

 

Some people consider Tampa Bay to have some of the best strip clubs in the U.S., but have they taken a look at the girls on their NFL team? Who needs the strip club when they can just head on over to the TB games! And they are quite the distraction. Almost too much of a distraction?
(Watch below)

 

Regardless, we’ll tag along any day to see these swashbuckling pirate gals do their thing!

 

3. San Diego Chargers

Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Katy Perry got it right. Us California girls are unforgettable. Daisy dukes, bikinis on top. Sun-kissed skin, so hot, we’ll melt your popsicle! Oh oh oh oh! California gurls- We’re undeniable. Fine, fresh, fierce, we got it on lock! Maybe I’m biased, but these girls always put on a fierce show for their fans. West Coast represent!

2. Miami Dolphins 

WELCOME TO MIAMI. Someone hose these girls down because they straight FUEGO! Plus, the diversity that this team brings just proves their desirability to anyone, male or female. These girls sure keep things spicy down in Miami!

1. Dallas Cowboys 

Everything is certainly bigger in Texas! Including the Cowboys cheerleaders’ racks. I get why the Cowboys are considered “America’s Team,” just take a look at the girls who put on the costume each season. Save a horse ride a cowboy!

– Taylor

Because it’s the CUP! Stanley Cup Preview

You know how I know our editor loves me?

She asks me to write the piece for the Stanley Cup preview when my team just got brutally slain in Game 7 by the Blackhawks. But hey, we do it for the love of the game now don’t we…

The Tampa Bay Lightning are coming off a series win over the New York Rangers to clench their spot in the finals. They will face the Chicago Blackhawks in the battle for the Cup.

The trail for both teams to get to the finals has not been easy. In round one, the Lightning took down the Detroit Redwings in seven games, while the Blackhawks eliminated the Nashville Predators in six. In round two, the Lightning sent the Montreal Canadiens packing and the Hawks swept the Minnesota Wild. In round three, the Lightning shut out the Rangers in Game 7 to clench the series, while the Blackhawks came to Anaheim and sent us all home crying (and spewing expletives), while murdering us 5-2. This is the first time since 2000 that both conference finals needed a Game 7.

The goaltending will be the game changer, literally. The Blackhawks have one of the most experienced teams in the NHL and their goaltender Corey Crawford is in control. With a .919 save percentage in the playoffs, his goaltending is definitely better than adequate. He is expected to come out rested and ready after a star performance against the Ducks in Game 7. Ben Bishop, the goaltender for the Lightning is right around Crawford with a .920 save percentage in the playoffs this season. Although his save percentage practically mimics Crawford’s, Bishop has given up at least three goals or more in six playoff games. Scary, right?

The offenses of these two teams are immensely skilled while showing off their fancy footwork. In
other words, these guys are freaky fast on the ice. Captain Steven Stamkos one of the Lightning’s elite, has proven his strength leading the last 20 games with seven goals and 10 assists. Although his stats are impressive, he lacks in experience. This will be his first cup final.

Duncan Keith has been a standout for Blackhawks with two goals and 16 assists and he works hand in hand with captain Jonathan Toews who has nine goals and nine assists in the playoffs this season. Are you pucking serious, Toews? You’re a beast.

This series for the cup is stacked with talent, speed and sheer athleticism. Personally, due to experience, I’m putting my money on the Hawks and they’ll take it in six games. I don’t like you Chicago, but I have to respect your dynasty.

Here’s a schedule of the series:

Game 1: Wednesday 6/3 Chicago @ Tampa Bay 8 PM EST

Game 2: Saturday 6/6 Chicago @ Tampa Bay 7:15 PM EST

Game 3: Monday 6/8 Tampa Bay @ Chicago 8 PM EST

Game 4: Wednesday 6/10 Tampa Bay @ Chicago 8 PM EST

Game 5: Saturday 6/13 Chicago @ Tampa Bay 8 PM EST

Game 6: Monday 6/15 Tampa Bay @ Chicago 8 PM EST

Game 7: Wednesday 6/17 Chicago at Tampa Bay 8 PM EST

So fly Hawks fly?! Wait no, I just can’t. Looks like I’ll be drinking a lot of beers if I plan on rooting anybody on here. Cheers!

– Carly 

TB Lightning Shocks in Win over NY Rangers

That’s right ladies and gentlemen, we are one step closer to the STANLEY CUP. The outstanding New York Rangers have been knocked out in a 2-0 shutout by who other than the, Tampa Bay Lightning….?

I don’t know about you guys, but at the beginning of the season it seemed like these guys came out of nowhere. Because, well, they did.

Tampa Bay has only been to the playoffs eight times (five of those times being 10 years ago) and have won the Stanley Cup just once over ten years ago, but since the start of the season all they have done is prove to the world why they deserve to go.

In Game 2 against the Rangers, the Lightning was just that, LIGHTNING. Honestly, in the third period it started looking more like a rowdy baseball inning than a hockey game.

For Tampa Bay, Captain Steven Stamkos leads the way this season, with 43 goals. Keep in mind Stamkos tied the franchise record with his eighth hat trick against the Canadiens earlier this season as well.

However when it comes to clutch game time performance, Ondrej Palat takes the cake. I mean, the guy did score the final goal in the third period past Hendrik Lundqvist to secure their spot in the cup, which is not something easily done against the multi-cup winning team. The Rangers were 7-0 playing at home in a Game 7. Better make that 7-1. Ouch.

Now the Lightning may have secured their precious golden ticket to our beloved Stanley Cup, but either opponent they face in the cup is no stranger to the playoffs or winning the cup.

The explosive Chicago Blackhawks and the hard-hitting Anaheim Ducks face off in Game 7 Saturday night and whoever comes out hot will have to face the Cinderella team for the cup and we couldn’t be more excited. Either way, this Florida team is on a heater (no pun intended) and is about to face off with one of the best teams in hockey. Who knows, if this Cinderella team can knock out the elite NY Rangers, they just might be able to get the glass slipper over the Hawks or the Ducks.

But before that all takes place, all eyes will be on the sacred last game of playoffs leading up to the cup: Game 7, Blackhawks at Ducks.

The series has been neck in neck with these guys, but as long as Anaheim stays solid on their power play kill, they could be heading to the cup.

Imagine that: A sunny Southern California team and a sunny Southern Florida team facing off for the icy Stanley Cup?

This might be one of the first times the Stanley Cup rink will be full of fans in flip flops and t-shirts.

Western Conference Final Game Info:
Series tied 3-3, Game 7
Blackhawks vs. Ducks- Saturday May 30th @ 5:00 PM on NBC, CBC, TVA

– Courtney