Gc102

F EBRUARY / MARCH 2014 ISSUE • 1.02

GC

KRIS MARTIN PROFESSIONAL BULL RIDING GOALS FOR GIRLS JIM TUNNEY

GAME CHANGER MAGAZINE

&

Super Bowl XVIII

Sochi 2014 LUI PAN TO BARTON NICK BUCKLAND JEN LEE ANGIE MALONE JOSH PAULS

HE AND HIS TEAMMATES INSPIRED THE WORLD

devon harris TALKS ABOUT BEING ON THE JAMAICAN BOBSLED TEAM

GAME CHANGER 1

II

join the team

BLOGGERS-WRITERS-PHOTOGRAPHERS-EDITORS-BLOGGERS-WRITE PHERS-EDITORS-BLOGGERS-WRITERS-PHOTOGRAPHERS-EDITORS-B PHOTOGRAPHERS-EDITORS-BLOGGERS-WRITERS-PHOTOGRAPHERS GERS-WRITERS-PHOTOGRAPHERS-EDITORS-BLOGGERS-WRITERS-PH 2 GAME CHANGER

e n i z a g a M r e g n a h C Game

m

ERS-PHOTOGRAPHERS-EDITORS-BLOGGERS-WRITERS-PHOTOGRABLOGGERS-WRITERS-PHOTOGRAPHERS-EDITORS-BLOGGERS-WRIT S-EMAIL US AT: GCMAGEDITOR@GMAIL.COM-EDITORS-BLOG HOTOGRAPHERS-EDITORS-BLOGGERS-WRITERS-PHOTOGRAPHERS GAME CHANGER 3

GC GAME CHANGER MAGAZINE

Editor-in-Chief Gary Shackleford Copy Editor Mark O’Hara Design Consultant Ryan Brinson Cover: Devon Harris

Contributors: Caleb Bollenbacher Matthew Johnson Harris Laura Vansickle Featured Photographers: Ryan Brinson All articles and photos are the property of the writers and photographers.

All rights reserved.

FOR BEANIE “Challenges are just stepping stones for the future.” - Angie Malone 4 GAME CHANGER

CLICK HERE TO

FOLLOW US

GAME CHANGER 5

24

66

The MVP

Goals for Girls is a new nonprofit that is changing the lives of young women across the globe. Using soccer as a medium for change, Goals for Girls is making huge strides in women’s rights for young ladies in disadvantaged nations.

6 GAME CHANGER

ON THE COVER Devon Harris talks about the historic moments at the 1988 Calgary games. He and his teammates paved the way for non-traditional athletes in the Olympics and we get an inside look at the original Jamaican Bobsled team before the new team makes another run at a medal in Sochi.

12 18

HIIT ME

Matthew takes at look at the newest sensation, High Intensity Interval Training, and it’s changing the way we workout.

TURNING LEFT

Kris Martin opens up about being deaf and his dream of becoming a NASCAR Superstar.

THE WINTER OLYMPICS 30...

34...

38...

42...

46...

50...

54 62

BARTON BUCKLAND MALONE SLED HOCKEY OLYMPIC FASHION MASCOTS

SUPER BOWL XLVIII

The world’s biggest game hits The Big Apple and we’re on the scene at events all over the city that are perfect for any football fan.

JIM TUNNEY

Back-to-Back Super Bowl rings, the Rose Bowl, and a Principal? Life behind the NFL’s greatest referee.

72

PBR

78

SOCHI SNACKS

Professional Bull Riding hits Manhattan for the first stop of the season. We got the inside look on the year ahead.

Our resident party planner takes some traditional Russian favorites and brings them across the pond and into your kitchen.

GAME CHANGER 7

Letter from the Editor It’s hard. Every two months there’s so much that happens in the sports world, and to put it all into an issue that spans that time frame.. hard. So I began a list.

PBR, NASCAR, the Olympics, the Super Bowl...there are so many pieces to the start of 2014. I dug, looking at each sport to find stories that fit what we stand for at Game Changer Magazine. Slowly, one by one, I started to see that this issue was bigger than I thought it could be, and this issue began to change me.

Then, I met the athletes. Each and every person in this issue is a role model. They aren’t your everyday run of the mill NFL or NBA players with endorsements and television commercials. These people are dreamers.

Impossible isn’t a word you’ll find in our pages. Each story, each moment is something that was made possible by a dream. You start to look at the world around and wonder, what’s that guy’s story, or how did she end up in this spot? You don’t have to make millions of dollars to be a role model or hero, they’re found all around us and it’s something we take for granted everyday.

Heroes show us that all you need is heart, some quite literally, to give you hope to persevere and heal through sport. This issue is packed full of heroes, people changing lives and bringing hope, whether it is physically like our MVP Goals for Girls, or the athletes featured that show us no goal is too high when you believe. Their stories are destined to change the way you look at sports. Not a single one of these people let anything stop them, from accidents, to injury, or even disease. I can only hope that when you turn these pages, you realize that there’s a hero somewhere in each of us.

Change your Game, Change your Life.

Gary Shackleford Jr. Editor-in-Chief

8 GAME CHANGER

GAME CHANGER 9

The Comeback

by Caleb Bollenbacher

Hockey is making a comeback.

I was delighted to find a recent article from CSN Chicago detailing the fact that the NHL is outselling the NBA this season. Fifteen of the thirty NHL franchises are averaging 100% attendance or higher, compared to eight for the NBA. Regardless of whatever tired rhetoric you might be hearing from the obnoxious co-worker one cubicle over (or the LeBron James fan club over at ESPN), people care about hockey, and it’s starting to show now more than ever. There’s plenty of reasons why people are finally catching on, but at the end of the day it all comes down to simple exposure.

It’s a beautiful game, just waiting to be discovered, and when people get a chance to see it in the proper light there is going to be an increase in attention.

Very little has done more for the league’s exposure the last few years than the outdoor games. First conceived as a good opportunity for an exhibition game in the early 90’s, outdoor hockey has made a resurgence in the last decade, and if 2014 is any indicator it won’t be going anywhere soon. Since the roaring success of the first Heritage Classic, between Edmonton and Montreal back in 2003, games in non-traditional venues (specifically baseball or football stadiums) have become tradition in the NHL, with consecutive games being played in every season since 2008. The most recent Winter Classic, which saw Detroit fall to Toronto in a shootout, drew a crowd of more than 105,000, the largest ever audience for a hockey game in North America. But the league is far from done. Perhaps to make up for the postponement of the 2013 Winter Classic due to the lockout, the league is expanding the event with the creation of the Stadium Series.

Long story short, this is going to be big. Four games, stretched between January 25th and March 1st, will 10 GAME CHANGER

feature NHL teams in iconic settings. Dodger Stadium, Yankee Stadium, and Chicago’s Soldier Field will all play host to rivalry matchups that will see some of the league’s top talent in the national spotlight.

So why is this such a big deal?

Maybe it’s because for the first time in years the NHL is allowing itself to be a spectacle. Don’t get me wrong, one of the things I love most about hockey is the way the top league conducts itself with a professionalism and gravity that is absent from most of the other sports. Though they make millions of dollars, NHL players seem less like celebrities and more like people you might run into at dinner. With a few exceptions it’s not a league of divas. The outdoor games, on the other hand, are all about the limelight.

Attendance is exponentially higher, prices are increased, and the coverage is intensified. Teams that play in the outdoor games break out one-time-use jerseys that are usually stylized in tribute to the glory years of decades past. It’s limited, it’s historic, and fans are dying to get the chance to say they’ve been there. It’s like the Christmas of the hockey world.

The league isn’t doing this all by itself either. Leading up to the last several Winter Classics, HBO has followed the participating teams around and aired episodes detailing the days in the lives of the players. The city of Detroit turned the 2014 Classic into a full-scale holiday, with several days of competition featuring college teams, minor league teams, and collections of retired legends. The sport is finally starting to celebrate itself, and the spirit is catching. Hockey is such a gripping sport, and now that people are tuning in to see it, the numbers show that they can’t look away.

Here’s hoping that the trend continues. Let ‘em play outside.

A week before the NHL Stadium Series in NYC, celebrities and hockey greats hit the Ice in an exhibition game against a New Jersey youth team. The event was held in Bryant Park on a beautiful, snow covered day for hockey.

Left: NFL great Boomer Esiason protects his goal. Bottom: Eric Cairns weaves through the opposing team.

GAME CHANGER 11

THE CHANGE-UP

by Matthew Johnson Harris

HIIT takes the crown in Popularity

The American College of Sports Medicine has released If you’re in New York and the top trending exercises want to join in on one of of 2013. HIIT (High Intensity Matthew’s classes, go to www.matthewjohnsonharris.com Interval Training) ranked #1 taking the top spot from ZUMBA who held the crown in 2012. Considering taking a HIIT class? What is HIIT? I will break it down in the simplest terms possible. There is no specific format for a HIIT class, but I will give you a basic idea of how a HIIT class works and make it as simple as possible.

An interval is a period of time. Intervals in HIIT are usually 30-60 seconds in time. Instead of performing a set number of reps or counting the amount of distance ran, the participant does as many reps as possible or runs as fast as they can within the timed interval. When the interval is complete the person then goes directly into another exercise without a break.

There are usually 8-10 exercises in a set. It may sound challenging but each exercise targets a different area of the body; giving the muscles you just worked a rest while you work another muscle group. The exercises also alternate between a high intensity exercise and a medium intensity exercise so the participant gets a mild break while still working out.

If that doesn’t sound challenging enough, there is usually a short burst of anaerobic intensity in between the high intensity work out and the medium intensity work out. What the hell is an anaerobic exercise you ask? These exercises are done at 100 % effort for 15 to 20 seconds. As the kids say, the participant would get “TURNT” up or go “HAM” for that short burst. By alternating parts of the body the participant gives a group of muscles a break without stopping the flow 12 GAME CHANGER

of the total exercise. After the participant finishes the circuit they are usually given a minute or two to catch their breaths and then they repeat the group of exercises or do a new group of exercises. Peter Coe regimen, Tabata regimen, Gibala regimen, and Timmons regimen are all recognized as HIIT classes and are all different in style.

30/60/90 is a favorite in the HIIT world and has what has been called a cult following. The class has also been mentioned in Glamour, Details, and other publications. Kristi Molinaro is the creator of the program. This mother of 2 understands the need to get a good effective workout in a short period of time.

Kristi is a ball of energy and her classes are as electric as her smile. She answered a few of our questions.

WHAT MAKES 30/60/90 DIFFERENT THAN MOST HIIT WORKOUTS? When I created 30/60/90 way back in 2007, I was trying to get the maximum results in the least amount of time - the same way I was training my private clients. Because most of the people I worked with were looking for fat loss, I decided to make the cardio intervals much longer than the strength or active recovery. Most HIIT workouts have much longer weight lifting sets and quick bursts of aerobic intervals. We also use a small amount of equipment which facilitates a much smoother workout with very minimal downtime, if any!

WHY DO YOU THINK HIIT WAS THE #1 TRENDING EXERCISE IN 2013?

I actually chuckled when I read that it was number one, because it has been my religion for over a decade!

I think the reason it is still growing in popularity, is

because it works! You can accomplish in 45 minutes, the same calories burn-off you get in classes that are two to three times as long.

WHY IS HIIT EFFECTIVE? Plenty of studies have shown that High Intensity Interval Training is super effective because it shocks the body with its short bursts of intense activity (you can do something for 30 seconds that you cannot do for 30 minutes which is why people are able to work out much more intensely when they train in intervals).

The shock to the body causes the metabolism to elevate slightly for up to 36 hours AFTER the workout.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A PERSON ON THEIR FIRST 30/60/90 CLASS? I always tell new people to work at their own pace; the class is not a race. What it takes for an experienced, super fit person to get their heart rate high is going to be much more intense than it will be for a new person.

It does not matter if you do a squat thrust (burpee) with twenty pounds of weight in your hands or a low impact squat thrust with no weight - as long as you are pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, you will reap the benefits of HIIT!

another HIIT class, you can ensure that you will have a workout that will push you to your limits. I have yet to take a 30/60/90 class where I didn’t feel like I was about to collapse. Sometimes you have to hit the wall and push through and I have never passed out in class. You will be surprised what you can do if you get past that mental threshold. Check out your gym’s schedule and get in a HIIT class today.

For more information on 30/60/90 check out w w w. 3 0 6 0 9 0 f i t n e s s. com. Next month we will return to our “From Built to Fit Challenge” and I will share my personal experiences in our journey to be as fit as possible in 2014.

Mark Otto, a former college athlete took the class after years of not doing intense physical training due to a form of muscular dystrophy.

“It was really hard aerobically and physically. I had to learn to pace myself and not try to keep up with the rest of the class.” When asked if he were looking forward to returning to the class he jokingly stated, “Looking forward to it may not be the best way to describe my feelings, but I will be back.”

Whether you take 30/60/90 or GAME CHANGER 13

14 GAME CHANGER

CLICK HERE TO

FOLLOW US

GAME CHANGER 15

NEW SEASON: NEW THE SCOOP ON WHAT’S CHANGING IN NASCAR

NASCAR HAS COME ACROSS SOME RULE CHANGES FOR THE 2014 SEASON. LUCKILY FOR YOU, GAME CHANGER MAGAZINE HELPS TO BREAK IT DOWN. The first change has to do with qualifying.

BEFORE: Drivers took turns taking solo laps around the track. The fastest of your qualifying laps determined your starting position.

Now: Drivers will compete in different heats. Depending on track size, that determines how many heats the drivers take the track for. The fastest drivers after each heat will advance to the next round. Each round, the slowest drivers will start in the back of their heat pack for the race. Confusing? We know, that’s why we’ve included the chart to help.

16 GAME CHANGER

CHANGES The other big change is in “The Chase.”

Before: The top 12 drivers, unless there was a tie or other extenuating circumstance, would all start with a certain amount of points and continue to accrue points. The last race was basically pointless as drivers rarely had to place high to win the Championship.

At the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, NC. Photo by Megan Clark.

Now: It’s basically like March Madness. The top 16 drivers at the cut off date are advanced to round one of ‘The Chase.’

Similar to a bracket system, each set of rounds drivers will be knocked out of the running based on their finishes in those rounds. The championship will come down to the last race where the top four drivers will compete for the Sprint Cup. Game Changer was at the “Shine and Sign” event at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. What’s better than a night to celebrate the greatest drivers on the track and the delicious treat that gave birth to this great sport. BOOGITY BOOGITY BOOGITY!!

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to find out how to join our NASCAR FANTASY LEAGUE.

GAME CHANGER 17

WINNING RACES IS JUST THE START. KRIS MARTIN IS ON THE SEARCH FOR A SPONSOR, BUT HAS “HIT A WALL.” THIS YOUNG MAN HAS BECOME AN INSPIRATION FOR SO MANY ON HIS SEARCH FOR A DREAM.

18 GAME CHANGER

S I R K GAME CHANGER 19

The Intimidator, Dale Earnhardt, once said, “The winner ain’t the one with the fastest car; It’s the one who refuses to lose.” Those words describe 26 yearold Kris Martin perfectly, a young man who has spent years dreaming of becoming a NASCAR driver and continues to fight his way into the circuit.

Martin’s fight isn’t unlike other aspiring drivers, and time and time again, he’s proved himself on the track. Yet sponsorship has been elusive, not because he isn’t talented and not because he doesn’t know his way around the race track. It’s because Martin is profoundly deaf.

Racing is in his blood. Both Martin’s uncle and grandfather are members of the Canadian Racing Hall of Fame. In 1996, Martin received a go-kart for Christmas and his passion for racing took off. He began racing in the Waterloo Kart Club on weekends, spending all day at the track and learning as much as he could.

“I started racing when I was 10 and I got better at kart racing every weekend,” he said.

Martin’s abilities in racing showed, when in 1997, he began to decorate his room with trophies.

By 2005, he had racked up a total of six championships in kart racing, and had made the transitions to stock cars. He began in the Cuplite stock car series, won the Rookie of the Year award and has been racing strong since.

Lee Faulk racing gave Martin the opportunity to visit Hickory Speedway in 2009 with a chance to race in the ARCA Super Late Model event. Upon arrival, Martin was not greeted with cheers, but instead he found a wall of racers and officials with a fear of the unknown.

“They all thought I was going to wreck them because I was hearing impaired.” Martin explains.

“They were concerned because being able to hear and communicate with your spotter is important.”

What the other drivers didn’t know, is that Martin was working with Phonak Hearing Systems to create a device that would allow him to communicate freely.

“It’s basically an FM device that connects to my cochlear implant. It allows me to only hear my spotters while I’m racing.”

There are two problems with hearing loss: not being able to hear and the inability to cancel out any background noise in your cochlear implant if you have one. The device that’s in Martin’s helmet transmits to his cochlear and allows him to hear and

communicate with his spotters like any other driver.

Even with this information, the other drivers and officials were still hesitant to let him race, for fear of wrecking others. The fear of the unknown is a constant barrier for Martin, whether it’s sponsors or other competitors on the track.

“I have my FM system, it doesn’t shut down. People are afraid and that makes them uncomfortable, I understand their concerns. I just ask for them to watch, let me show you what I can do and that is how I prove myself.”

And that he did, after showing he is capable of racing like everyone else in practice, Martin went on to finish 7th out of 30 drivers.

“I raced clean, I raced well. After the race, everyone came to my trailer and were very impressed with how well I raced. I knew I would be fine. When I was racing in Karts, I didn’t have the device and I still won. Now with the device, I’m even better.”

In late 2013, Martin was able to test at Daytona International Raceway and get a taste of the life he’s so passionately trying to earn. Martin’s support system is strong. His family knows how much this means to Martin and is praying for him to find the sponsorship he so desperately needs.

“My grandfather knows how bad I want to be a driver. We want it together, but he also knows that the only thing holding me back is money. I can’t get sponsors to settle because they are unsure of my abilities to perform because of my hearing issue.”

Martin has become a stronger driver having to rely on his other senses when it comes to being on the track.

“Not being able to hear makes my other senses stronger. I can sit in a car [non-stock car] and tell the tire pressure is less on one tire. My dad always told me, ‘you have to listen to a racecar.’ I can’t hear it, but I can feel if there’s something wrong and I tell my spotter immediately. That’s what makes me a strong driver, even when they can’t see a problem, I can feel it happening.”

Martin assures us that he’s ready for the challenge of being behind the wheel in NASCAR. “Honestly, what makes me a great driver is that I don’t just talk, I prove myself. I’m very passionate and I work and practice every day.”

Although he’s not big on talk around the track, Martin has secured himself as a hero for hearing impaired children.

“Let me drive, I won’t make a fool out of you.”

- Cole Trickle “Days of Thunder”

20 GAME CHANGER

“Also, what makes me a better driver is my public speaking. I help people who are struggling and I help them understand, they can do it.”

Martin tries to make sure kids know they don’t have to stop doing what they love because of a disability.

He’s not on the track just competing for himself, but he’s out there competing for every child to have a chance to follow their dreams.

“This guy called me and had a son that was into racing. The father didn’t have a clue about the sport and his son was hearing impaired. He called me so I could help his son learn how to drive, so I went and spent time with his family. I taught him about mechanics, the set up and a couple of weeks later, he won his first trophy.”

Martin has a strong heart and a great set of skills behind the wheel. He touches people every day, whether it’s through personal training, public speaking or being a role model on the race track.

“I remember, I took a picture with a kid, about 6 or 7 years old. He was hearing impaired as well and when he saw my cochlear implant, and said ‘He’s like me. Now I know what I want to be when I grow up.’

I began to get tears in my eyes, because I knew at that moment I helped that kid believe he could do anything.”

To support Kris Martin, and find out more information, please visit www.krismartinracing.com

GAME CHANGER 21

22 GAME CHANGER

GC GOES TO THE OLYMPICS

GAME CHANGER 23

24 GAME CHANGER

GAME CHANGER 25

Almost 30 years ago, the world watched as four men attempted to defy all odds and do something that a small island nation had never done before. The Jamaican Bobsled team made their way to Calgary in 1988 with the hopes to be competitors in the four man bobsled event. What they did not expect is to become one of the greatest moments in sports history.

Devon Harris grew up in a small impoverished neighborhood just outside of Kingston, Jamaica. The small village, known as “Olympic Gardens,” was one of the toughest ghettos to live in at the time. Jamaica was going through a rough era of political instability during Harris’ youth, which lead to protests that were not only violent but birthed many gangs.

Harris reflects, “I played soccer while I was growing up, living in my neighborhood, soccer kept me grounded. Although it was really rough, living in a place called ‘Olympic Gardens’ was future foretelling.”

Harris knew two things growing up, that he wanted to join the army and he wanted to compete in the Olympics.

“I remember watching the ‘ABC Wide World of Sports: Road to Moscow.’ It was ’79 and they spoke about different athletes, I was surprised by how ordinary the athletes were.” Harris added, “They had extraordinary dreams and an equal desire, it was at that moment that I realized anyone could be an Olympic athlete and I developed the courage to go.”

Harris’ Olympic dream was centered on running track. He planned to train and go to the 1984 Olympics as a middle distance runner.

“I was aiming for the ’84 games, but realized I would still be in high school. Looking back now, it wasn’t beyond reason.”

It was that year Harris started to fulfill his other dream, and he began his training in the Jamaica Defense Wars at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. While at the Military Academy, Harris didn’t give up on his dream of being an Olympic athlete.

“It was the summer of ’87, I knew the Olympics were coming up and I thought maybe if I trained hard 26 GAME CHANGER

enough, I could qualify,” he said. “So I began running 5 miles a day as fast as I could.”

This was when the summer and winter games were held in the same year, so the Summer Olympics were actually in September of 1988, leaving Harris almost a full year of hard training ahead.

During this same time, two Americans George Finch and William Maloney, had been to Jamaica and saw what Harris describes as “two of our crazy guys racing pushcarts.” They got the idea to start a Jamaican Bobsled team for the 1988 Winter Olympics.

“When they began to look at building the team, they went for the sprinters from our Summer Olympic team, but they (the sprinters) didn’t want to do it.”

Harris was not prepared for what came next.

“During a cross country race in the army, I was recovering from a broken ankle. I placed 14th out of 40 runners, not a great finish healthy, but with a broken ankle it wasn’t that bad.”

His Colonel was impressed with his athleticism and passion, so Harris was then sent to the bobsled trials.

By the end of October ’87, the final selections had been made for the team and Harris’ dream of being an Olympian began.

The team began basic ‘push training’ in Jamaica before they started their crash course in New York and Austria in preparation for the winter games (90 percent of the bobsled race is the start, known as ‘the push’).

“During training, we had some frustrating moments.

We weren’t progressing as fast as we wanted.” Harris recalls, “We wanted to be really great at the push, we were learning the technique, working really hard but not seeing the results.”

Having nothing to compare to, the team was struggling against themselves. They hadn’t been able to compete on this level before.

“It’s like you’ve been practicing how to play basketball for a few months, then you have to go out and compete against Kobe, Jordan or Lebron,” Harris

said. “We were going to compete against the best athletes in the world, the biggest challenge, for me, was believing that we could actually be competitive.”

As the competition arrived, Harris remembered those moments walking into Olympic Stadium.

“Imagine you grow up watching the opening ceremonies, and think ‘wow those are the best athletes in the world.’ Then one day, there are 60,000 people erupting with applause, and more television cameras than you can count. In that single instant, your image is all over the world, kids are looking at you as one of the best athletes in the world.”

Something the Jamaican bobsled team faced going into the games is a feeling of not being wanted.

Naysayers made it clear they thought the team was outside of their element and did not belong competing at this level in Calgary, but that didn’t phase Harris.

“It’s quite difficult to put into words, but there’s this sense of pride and accomplishment,” he said. “I got the feeling like we finally belonged at the games.”

The team was focused and ready to take on the task at hand in Calgary.

The days prior to their event, the team was able to see the impact they had on the games start to build.

“The first time we were on our way to Olympic Park, one person stopped us, all of a sudden there was a crowd. You just try to get as many as you can, and as soon as the crowd was gone, we couldn’t go another 10 steps without someone else asking for an autograph and they cycle started over again,” Harris jokes.

Beyond the fans at the games, they had press globally that was interested in the first competitors from Jamaica to participate in the Winter Olympics.

“There was always something else to do [photoshoots, interviews, etc.], we had to take time out of training. The amount of interviews was distracting, I prefer to just go about my business instead of telling people what wonderful things I intend to do.”

Harris admits that through all of this, his biggest challenge going into the games was fought by these interviews.

“We constantly repeated [in interviews] that we wanted to be competitive. This became implanted in our minds and I started to believe we would do it.”

Since this was their first time on the international stage, the team took every opportunity to learn about the sport from guys that have been training for years.

“The other teams sat in the warm house relaxing and concentrating on their ride, we were out on the course watching each team push off, picking up any information we could, so that we can give our absolute best for our country,” Harris added. Before they knew it, their turn to push off had come and Jamaica was going to make their statement to the world.

“Whenever I compete, I am a nervous wreck, even when I was in high school,” Harris explains. “You get 60 seconds to push off, so the announcer comes on and says ‘track is clear for Jamaica 1,’ somehow that nervousness gets channeled into aggression and you PUSH.” As the world watched the team known as Jamaica 1, the people of the Caribbean screamed with pride as the brave men fought for the Olympic dream.

“We are a proud culture,” Harris states. “Not just Jamaica, but the whole Caribbean was watching us and rooting for us.

We weren’t just racing for Jamaica, but for the dreams of all Caribbean countries.”

The runs for the team weren’t wildly successful, they seemed to struggle each time down the hill. Yet, fan didn’t really care. Fans all over the world wanted them to succeed and to find a place on the podium.

They didn’t.

In what will go down in history as the most powerful crash of all time, the Jamaican Bobsled Team’s sled flipped over and the team pinned against the wall.

“Just before we crashed, I expected to hit the wall and come out. We didn’t. Next thing I knew, we were over. We had failed.”

GAME CHANGER 27

Top: The team practices with an iron “sled” in Jamaica in 1987.

Above: The cast of “Cool Runnings,” the film based on the original Jamaican Bobsled team.

For more information on Harris’ Keep On Pushing Foundation, head over to www.keeponpushing.org 28 GAME CHANGER

Harris and the team had no idea what was about to happen, nor did they realize that they were going to be immortalized in sports history.

“We come from Jamaica, we have a high level of performance in Olympic games. Crashing, failing in front of the entire world, we let down our country and validated the naysayers.”

With their heads down, the team began to walk off of the track.

“We didn’t want to walk down the track, if we could have, we would have just jumped over the barrier and got out of there as quickly and gracefully as possible,” he said.

Then they heard cheering, and began to see people rushing to the track to shake their hands.

“It [people cheering] wasn’t what we expected. It really epitomizes what the Olympics are all about, the records are awesome but sports are really about going out there and giving your very best. Our team really encapsulated the Olympic Spirit.”

He gets reminded of the impact that ’88 team to this day.

“I was at the Vancouver Olympics and met a lady who didn’t speak very good English. She began to express how grateful she was for us and the impact we had on her life. I see the impact we had, that someone so far away from Jamaica could be affected by us.” Harris adds, “even those not old enough to remember those Olympics saw the movie [“Cool Runnings”] and that inspires them. One thing that movie got right is depicting the spirit of our team.”

Harris now resides in the United States and is a motivational speaker, author of a children’s book “Yes, I Can!”, and founder of a non-profit.

“The Keep On Pushing Foundation, provides practical solutions to challenges that keeps kids from being educated in disadvantaged communities.” Harris’ goals for the foundation are to “work beyond Olympic Gardens and into the rest of the Caribbean, as well as South and Central America to create hope and opportunity in their lives.”

As Harris now is working on inspiring people and changing lives every day. That trip down the hill in ’88 is where he and three other men made an impact on the lives of many. The images and video from that crash are not only frightening, but still, almost 30 years later, are powerful and uplifting. The Jamaican bobsled team was and will always be one of the most moving and important teams in sports history.

GAME CHANGER 29

30 GAME CHANGER

the

new

from

hong kong For the first time in the history of the Winter Olympics, Hong Kong will send a male athlete to compete. 20-year-old Speed Skating sensation, Lui Pan To Barton is about to take his place in sports history when he steps onto the ice in Sochi. This young man will have the weight of a nation on his shoulders when he sets out to compete against the world’s best athletes. His story is not unlike other young athletes, but Barton has nothing to lose and everything to gain when he races in Russia.

Born in Hong Kong, Barton spent his early years like any other child.

He went to school and enjoyed playing on roller skates. By the age of 10, he found a passion for skating on ice and ditched the roller skates for blades and in 2006, he moved to Canada to start his studies in Vancouver.

“My first competition was when I was 16-years-old. It was the short track World Cup in Canada.” Barton adds, “I didn’t start thinking about the Olympics in the beginning, I was a kid enjoying the fun I had on the ice.”

That all changed during his time studying in Vancouver when he was able to witness the Olympic Games firsthand.

“I saw the Olympic Games and I thought, ‘Wow, I actually have a chance.’” Barton being the only one of his classmates that kept up with skating realized his window, “I had a great chance to go, so I discussed it with my coach, suspended my studies and started my training.”

Barton saw an opening and his chance to chase a dream. Having only been seriously training for 4 years, he’s young in the sport, but his GAME CHANGER 31

passion and determination have driven him.

Barton has spent much of his young life away from his family and continues to do so for something greater.

“I had a target and I didn’t give up. It’s very hard and tiring but I am not just racing for the Olympics, this is building something for my future.”

Barton’s training regimen is much different than many other teams: he’s alone. Not just away from family and friends, but from his fellow countrymen as well. Barton’s “training family” isn’t one that speaks the same language or bears the same flag. Barton has trained all over the world. From Canada to China and now, he’s spent the past two years in Korea training with the Korean short track team.

“When I first came [to Korea], we didn’t know each other.

There was a huge gap and language barrier, but through the sport we overcame it quickly.” Since then, they have grown close as a team and Barton gets helpful training advice from them, “Even their coach accepted me and helped me a lot with my Olympic qualification,” Barton adds.

Short track speed skating isn’t all about a physical presence, there’s a mental aspect to the sport as well. There’s strategy and timing, not to mention one lapse in concentration can send one speeding towards someone’s blade.

“I look at my competitors and think smartly. Before the race, I clear my mind and only think about technique.” But Barton’s biggest mental game is with himself. “My coach and I discuss my strategy, I pick my weakness and we spend the day practicing that. Physically, I am building up each week, but I have to remember not to think too much because if you think too hard, you can’t perform well.”

This isn’t Barton’s first time on the International circuit but it’s going to be his biggest competition yet.

“My best moment on the track,” Barton recalls, “was at the Asia Junior Games. I got a bronze medal in the 500m and that was my first international medal. It gave me power to push forward and stay on the track because I love this sport and I won’t give up easily.”

The Olympics have such importance on a global scene but many people don’t realize how many competitions these athletes actually compete in internationally both before and after the games. This will be Barton’s first time experiencing the Olympics.

“I assume that the environment is very intense. You can tell when you look at the coaches and athletes faces that everyone is concentrating very hard, compared to other competitions.”

The Olympics aren’t all serious though, there’s the Opening and Closing Ceremonies that bring joy and relaxation to the athletes.

“The most exciting thing is the Opening Ceremony,” Barton states, “There’s going to be gold medalists there, and you 32 GAME CHANGER

know when the [Closing] Ceremony ends that they are going to have new gold medalists. It’s so meaningful and interesting, I can’t wait to feel the environment and the crowd during the countdown to the start of the games.”

At such a young age, the Olympics will have a bigger meaning not just for Barton but for the people of Hong Kong. Barton will be the only athlete from Hong Kong at the Winter Games in Sochi, the 4th athlete ever to compete from Hong Kong and the very first male athlete to represent the nation.

“I feel special, I have a responsibility here to perform better for all my family, friends and for all of the people in Hong Kong. I am bearing the flag for the Olympics and I need to do better than I have, not for me but for them.”

Barton isn’t just any athlete, he’ll be making history at these games, something that is often taken for granted. There are athletes who win many medals, who even win back-to-back golds, but we rarely get to see a country make their first steps into a games where they have never or rarely been before. Barton, not unlike the Jamaican bobsled team, is a role model for more than just Hong Kong, he’s a picture of a dream that any young man or woman can relate to.

“If there’s no stress, there’s no pressure,” Barton refers

to being the first male, “I don’t think I’ll perform better than I will in these Olympics. I won’t be overwhelmed with the pressure, I will handle it. I am honored and feel extra special because I am history.”

After the games, Barton plans to compete in the World Championships in March, then he’ll go back to his studies in Vancouver, where he will major in Kinesiology and sports science. “Education is the most important thing to me, I will finish my studies and then start training for 2018.”

This won’t be the last time we hear from Barton, No matter how he finishes, Barton will be history, a hero and at the age of 20 he’ll definitely have another Olympic Games or two in his future. As young as he is, Barton is well beyond his years as a person.

“My goal is to do my best. I know I started late and this is my first time at the Olympics, I don’t want to be bad or nervous.” Barton adds, “I have already accomplished my little dream as an athlete, I get to represent my country and bear the flag. It’s already been such a big step forward, I just want to look cool on T.V.” Any athlete that carries their country’s flag is cool, rest assured this young man will definitely be the coolest of them all.

GAME CHANGER 33

the

heart team

great britain Nick Buckland felt a racing in his chest.

It felt like something was wrong with his heart. In July of 2013, he was diagnosed with Tachycardia, or “quick heart,” a condition where a rapid heart rate is accentuated by the stress and adrenaline of competition.

Not exactly the makings of an Olympic story.

But it is.

For Buckland, born and raised in Nottingham, just north of London, he feels he was almost born to skate.

“My grandparents skated,” he said. “My grandfather was a British champion in speed skating and my grandma skated in London shows. I skated my first routine at the age of five, to ‘Superman’.”

Buckland can’t remember wanting to be anything else besides a figure skater.

“I love the sport, it’s my life. It’s physically demanding and you need to be incredibly athletic to take part at a high level, as well as artistic.”

Buckland met Penny Coomes when she moved with her step-father, who was becoming the skating coach at the National Ice Centre in Nottingham.

“We teamed up soon after she moved here, we went to the same school all through University.” Buckland adds, “We have known 34 GAME CHANGER

each other for ten years and have skated together for eight and a half.”

The couple began Ice Dancing and working their way to the top of the circuit. Although similar to Pairs Skating, Buckland describes the difference as pairs skating involves side-by-side jumps, overhead throws and mirrored elements. It’s two singles skaters coming together. Ice Dance involves more transitional movements, complex holds and lifts that are not allowed above the head.

“The focus is on interpretation of music and soft skating skills,” he said.

Coomes and Buckland finished in 20th place at the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver but have slowly made their way to the top of the pack.

In July, Buckland had a ‘Reveal Device’ placed under his skin to monitor his heart.

The device, which resembles a USB drive, recorded any unusual rhythms that were coming from his heart. This device found Buckland’s heart was beating over 270 beats a minute. To put this into perspective, an average 25-year-old athlete should record 40-60 beats resting with a maximum of 195 during a highly intense workout.

Not knowing how to deal with the condition, his doctors in Nottingham

GAME CHANGER 35

36 GAME CHANGER

advised Nick to stay off the ice until he spoke with Professor Sanjay Sharma at St. Georges Hospital in London.

Professor Sharma and his team are known for being experts in sports cardiology and have worked with elite athletes.

Sharma knew how to deal with the condition, but also knew he would have to act quickly to not interrupt the pairs Olympic training. Buckland was about to hear an athletes most feared words in an Olympic year: surgery.

Just three months before the European championships, and barely four to Sochi, Buckland was about to have surgery on his heart.

“Even though I was in the hands of one of the leading specialists in the world, I was worried that my Olympic dream may be gone.” Buckland recalls.

“They didn’t operate under a general anesthetic, so they could see my heart react normally. They made an incision into my groin and took some tubes to the top left atrium close to the heart.

They stimulated my heart with an electric charge, as well as administering adrenaline to bring on palpitations.” Buckland was surprised how quickly the problem was found, “I don’t know how they saw which nerve was malfunctioning, but they quickly went in with some tube to cauterise the offending nerve. After they went back to administer the tests again, they couldn’t bring it [palpitations] on again and had solved the problem.”

Buckland reunited with his partner in the US where they train.

“I was amazed at how soon I was able to get back on the ice.” Buckland said. “We are moving in the right direction and I feel I’m in great form.”

He proved that to be true. The couple had their best finish ever at the European Championships in 2014.

“Competing in sport has it’s highs and lows, but what sets athletes apart is how they bounce back from those lows. Resilience is the most important trait needed by an athlete. You never know what is around the corner. Life constantly tests your character and the only thing you can control is how you bounce back from it.”

Looking ahead to Sochi, it has a much different

tone for the team compared to Vancouver in 2010.

“Being a part of team Great Britain again is a true honor. Competing for my country in Vancouver was one of the best experiences in my life, and to do it again is amazing.” Buckland explains, “Your first Olympics is often about the experience, but we’ve got high hopes for Sochi, as we want to prove ourselves as medal contenders for the future.”

That future competition will be the world championships in March, but Buckland is remaining focused on the Winter games.

“Team Great Britain is expected to have 50 athletes going to Sochi. I think that is what makes it even more special than the world championships.

Team Great Britain comes together to support each other, no matter what sport you take part in. Team spirit is something special.”

That spirit is something Buckland and Coomes will, like many others, be a part of for the first time on the ice. The new Figure Skating team competition, which is modeled similarly to the gymnastics team medal, will feature one competitor from each division.

“We are really looking forward to competing in the new team event. We plan to skate clean programs and we will perform to the best of our abilities, if we do that, the placements will take care of themselves.”

Buckland and Coomes hope to be mentioned in the same sentence as Torvil and Dean and Robin Cousins.

“I could never imagine not competing,” he said.

“My love for skating and the support we receive make us two of the luckiest people in the world. To be able to do something we love so much, we don’t take it for granted.”

Nick Buckland luckily, will not have to worry about his heart beating irregularly again. The doctors didn’t just fix what was there, but they gave him a deeper appreciation that shows on the ice. They may not be sitting next to Torvil and Dean yet, but if this pair continues to skate as beautifully as they did in January, they will be making their mark very soon.

Buckland believes, “Never let anybody tell you that you can’t do something.”

GAME CHANGER 37

push

the

to

At 48 years old, Angie Malone is not about to let another Olympic Medal slip past her reach. As a Wheelchair Curling competitor on the Great Britain Paralympic Team, Malone competed in two past Olympic Games, her team winning the Silver medal in 2006, and finishing in 6th in 2010. This year in Sochi, Malone is back and stronger than ever.

Malone grew up in Glasgow, Scotland, and enjoyed staying active and playing sports in her community. When she was 16-years-old, she was involved in a road traffic accident that left her spinally injured and unable to walk.

But the inability to walk didn’t keep Malone from enjoying what she loved. As soon as she left the hospital, Malone began taking every opportunity to get involved with various sports.

“I picked up water skiing, sailing, swimming and skiing,” she said. Her involvement in sports was never focused on playing at a competitive level, as she focused on raising her two daughters.

In 2003, Malone was invited to watch the international qualifiers of a new sport, ‘Wheelchair Curling,’ in Glasgow. She met up with her friend who she had met in the hospital after her accident. (He eventually 38 GAME CHANGER

became her squad mate) Malone recalls, “After watching the competition, I was able to try and curl some stones myself. From that day, I was hooked.”

Wheelchair Curling is a sport that is similar to Figure Skating, it’s a beautiful blend of power and finesse. In Curling, there are separate male and female teams that play 10 ends (“rounds”), and have sweepers that glide down the ice and sweep the stones into position. Wheelchair Curling, is a mixed team event that plays 8 ends, the biggest difference, there are no sweepers.

The athletes must push the stones from the end and have the technical skills and ease to glide the stone perfectly in place with no help from sweepers.

At 38-years-old, most athletes would be at the end of their careers and making their final stand at the Olympics. Malone was different. Her daughters had grown up and she had a chance to follow her passion for sports at an international level.

In 2006, Malone was chosen to represent Great Britain at the Olympic Games in Turin, Italy. Angie and her team fought their way to a second place finish.

“The final went down to the last end and the final stone. To represent Great Britain

GAME CHANGER 39

40 GAME CHANGER

and bring home the Silver Medal was a massive honor.”

Although there are no sweepers, the team dynamic is incredibly important.

“The dynamic is crucial for the performance of each player. We work on ice and have a very tight knit team, the dynamics of a team are important to our buddy system. We work hard, support and communicate well with each other and that allows us to perform our best.”

Malone was well on her way to securing a spot for the Vancouver games, when, in October 2008, she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

“I discussed the situation with my doctor, Scotland Institute of Sport medical team and my coach. We came up with a plan and I set it out in my diary. My diary and planner became crucial to my training, rest and recovery.”

Malone set out over the next few months with a very strategic and specific goal: lose the least amount of training time as possible while making a speedy and full recovery. Having a training pause for the Christmas holiday, she planned her treatments around that break. In December 2008, she had a double mastectomy and began her 5 week recovery.

In February 2009, her precise scheduling became crucial to making sure she got to Vancouver.

“I started my chemotherapy, a six month process, where I would need to have four weekly treatments.

I knew I needed three days to recover after a treatment, and I knew exactly when each treatment would be. So I was able to balance my training, weekly strength and conditioning sessions twice a week, as well as five ice sessions a week.”

Malone attributes much of her recovery from cancer to being very fit and healthy, alongside the support of friends, family, her team and the Scotland Institute of Sport. The team went on to place sixth in the Vancouver games.

As the Paralympic movement has continued to grow over the past few years, the sport of Wheelchair Curling has become far more competitive.

“There is a far greater emphasis on strength and conditioning, nutrition, physiotherapy and

sport psychology. Our coaches are the best. Their forward thinking and coaching techniques, along with the support from so many organizations (Scotland Institute of Sport, British Curling, Royal Calendonian Curling Club and UK Sport and the British Paralympic Assoc.) has enabled us to be the best prepared we have ever been for an Olympic competition.”

Looking ahead to Sochi, Malone, like many others, hopes to bring the Gold Medal home for her country and make them proud.

“Every Paralympic Games has constants: the roar of the spectators, exceptional volunteers, the ethos, positive attitude and friendship between athletes.”

Malone hopes to bring her experience, knowledge and skills to Sochi to help her team come out on top.

Beyond Sochi, Malone hopes to continue to compete at the highest level she can, as well as

teach developing wheelchair curlers. Her advice for those young athletes is to “Be focused on what you are aiming for and keep that focus. Train and prepare meticulously to achieve your goal. Always remember to have fun and that challenges are stepping stones to success and the greater the challenge, the greater the success.”

How does Malone define success?

“Giving your all.”

GAME CHANGER 41

42 GAME CHANGER

Very rarely do we see a sport in the Olympic games that has a team roster that doesn’t include the heroes we see on the television.

We’re used to seeing the “Kobes, Vonns and Whites,” but in March, we’ll see an Olympic team comprised of heroes you probably don’t know.

But you should.

The United States Paralympic Sled Hockey Team has set their roster for Sochi and it is deep with talent, experience and youth. Since their Gold Medal turn in Vancouver, the US Sled Hockey team has only become stronger in their international presence. And, for the first time in history, they could be the new “miracle on ice” story as they are poised to take back-to-back hockey gold.

So, what is sled hockey? Sled hockey was started in europe in the 70’s, two men from Sweden had a passion for hockey and wished to play despite being physically disabled. They built a sled with two blades on the back and before they knew it, sled hockey was born. It wasn’t until the early 90’s before the United States had a team and sled hockey began to take shape as a competitive sport in the US. 2014 will be the 10 year anniversary of sled hockey in the Olympics, over the past 10 years, the sport has grown and now allows both men and women to compete on the same team.

This US team is probably the strongest team assembled at the Winter Games this year. This is the only sport where you can find three Purple Hearts, one active duty Sergeant in the Military, high school friends and an age range of almost 20 years. All of the men on the 2014 Olympic team have a story.

Tyler Carron and Nikko Landeros were best friends in High School, as well as top-rated wrestlers on their team. One night, that all changed when Nikko and Tyler were looking for tools to change a flat tire and a car came out of nowhere and pinned them between the two vehicles. Both men found they had been severely injured and were facing amputation.

Now, seven years later, these two men find themselves back at the top, and this time as

Olympians.

In 2002, Taylor Chace was headed on a path to an Olympic dream. He was one of the top young players in the United States and was focused on following his dream. In October of that year, Chace was checked into the boards and broke his L1 vertebrae. This resulted in partial paralysis, and Chace was not able to skate. In 2005, he found himself on a sled and with his knowledge of the game, was able to learn how to maneuver and is now a top player in sled hockey.

Three members on the team have Purple Hearts for their duties on the front lines. Rico Roman, Josh Sweeney and Paul Schaus have all been members of the Armed Forces who have received this medal of bravery and honor. Jen Lee, was inspired to join the forces after 9/11. Lee was involved in a tragic motorcycle accident and is one of the few active duty Military members to compete in the Olympics. He found himself looking for a way to stay active while in rehab, and as part of the military’s Operation Comfort, Lee found his passion for sled hockey.

Many of the team’s members have been born with or have a medical condition that hinders their ability to be able-bodied. Some of the strongest members on the team have been dealing with their physical barrier their whole life. Declan Farmer has become quite famous in Tampa, as he is one of the youngest guys on the team. He’s a member of the Tampa Bay Lightning’s sled hockey team, and is not only easily recognizable by his red hair, but his talent is beyond his years. This young man has more than one Olympics in his future and we’ll be hearing his name for seasons to come.

These men are quite possibly the ‘dream team’ of Sochi. With the ability to make US hockey history by winning back-to-back golds, they would also be the first team in the Paralympics to win back-to-back gold.

The Paralympics don’t air until March, but we assure you that if you watch anything, this team is definitely the team to watch.

Photos by USA Hockey/Gregg Forwerck

GAME CHANGER 43

Jen Lee

What are you most excited to experience in Sochi?

The biggest thing is actually just once we get there, being with all the athletes. You have all these top athletes, it’s going to be fun. In the end, we’re there to bring back the gold medal.

How does the age range affect the team?

We’re ages 15 to 35. You’re talking about the young guys...they’re fearless. They have speed and quickness. The veterans, they’re leaders who take charge. We have one of the youngest teams and talent. Ever since Vancouver, we’ve been playing the champions, constantly playing exhibition games and trying to get our feet wet. We have become used to the other teams.

Some people may think they’re the intimidator, but we’ve become used to how they play. Now each guy has to go out and do their job and defend.

through the pain and re-live the experience like they do in rehab and at the hospital. Sled hockey brings us back to team bonding. We train and fight together.

Having worn your flag in battle before, what does it mean to you this time?

It means a lot because I’m still active duty and representing from my branch. I’m still wearing the same flag. I’m wearing the flag twice. I am doing my job and my part to make everyone proud, from Operation Comfort to my physical therapist and family. It means a lot, whether we get the job done

What is the importance of diversity on team?

We have the military and deployment behind us, so we have a leadership role.

For us to have that discipline, we’re trying to teach the rest of the guys there are times that, for example, it maybe isn’t the best meal and things aren’t going your way. But it’s just a meal, it’s only one moment in time and you have to get through it. For us to have that motivation and fire, we’re gonna be okay. In the end, we’re still together and playing hockey, that’s what matters and gonna get it done.

When learning sled hockey what was the hardest challenge?

The biggest challenge for me, is obviously that I was able-bodied for 22 years. I spent a lot of time using my lower body and when it’s taken away from you, it’s a different way of thinking. You have to get used to using your upper body, hands and core more.

The importance of Operation Comfort?

Its definitely one of the best non-profit organizations.

They got me involved with hand cycling and hockey.

It’s simply to take the minds off the veterans and wounded soldiers, and they don’t have to go Photos by USA Hockey/Gregg Forwerck

44 GAME CHANGER

or not, people are going to support us, and we’re going to bring the gold back for all of us.

What advice do you have for persons who face physical challenges?

The biggest thing is never give up. If you put your mind to anything whether you’re born with a disability or not, there’s nothing you can’t accomplish. A lot of people will say you can never do it, but you can’t listen. Your mind is stronger than your body, If you believe in yourself, you can do it and you will achieve your goals.

Josh Pauls

When did you first start playing hockey?

About 13 years ago, my mom saw a flyer for a fundraiser for a South Jersey sled team. I started with a youth team a year later in the Jersey area.

What kept you motivated to fight for your spot in Vancouver?

I had been on the national team the year prior, and I got to see amazing athletes. Hockey is a big part of my life. My coach told me, ‘It’s one thing to reach the top, but to stay there takes work.’ So it was more proving them [selection committee] wrong.

What are your personal goals for Sochi?

I wanna up my level of play and I want to help my team to gold. I’m really concentrating on force checking and taking advantage of power plays. I just wanna win that gold.

What team are you looking forward to playing?

I’m really looking forward to playing Italy. My grandfather is from Italy, and we don’t get to face them often. It’ll be nice to get a little change in competition and play them.

our best. We came off 2-out-of-3 wins against Canada and we’re meeting now to train. We’re the only team that could beat ourselves, all the teams are there for a reason, but we have to play our game.

How does the different backgrounds affect the team dynamic?

I mean, our military guys have that ‘never give up attitude’ and it helps with our leadership.

Guys who were born with disabilities, we have the experience working everyday life like this.

The guys who have played hockey before know the game so well. When it’s all said and done, we all gel well because we’re trying to get that gold medal.

What is the biggest challenge on the ice?

The same as any hockey games, the mental side is most of the game. If you can think and know where to be to make a play, that’ll help us.

What’s the deal with Potato Head?

I was chubbier when I was younger and looked like Mr. Potato Head. I got one as a gift and now I keep him in my locker when we play. He always faces the other teams locker room to stare them Can you go Back-to-Back gold? down, you know intimidate them even though The World Championships wasn’t necessarily they don’t know it.

GAME CHANGER 45

making

an entrance STORY BY HILTON HOLLIS

Not only will the world be watching the Olympics this February for the action, sportsmanship and talent, but they will also be watching for the fashion represented in the opening ceremonies.

Every four years the world displays the talents of homegrown designers from countries around the world. This Sochi Olympics is no different, and may even be more focused on showing the spirit and culture of each country’s talent.

Ralph Lauren is not a new name in international fashion, nor in the arena of Olympic fashion (he first started designing the Olympic uniforms in 2008). This year Ralph brought the entire process of manufacturing back to the USA. With wool from the Imperial Stock Ranch in Oregon, yarns produced in Pennsylvania and sweater manufacturing from California, he has showcased over forty of the best resources from the country. The design comes together with American flag motifs, reindeers and fair isle knitted into intricate sweaters and peacoats. The classic Olympic insignia is paired with the Ralph Lauren Polo pony prominently on each garment.

46 GAME CHANGER

France turned to a truly iconic group to manufacture and design their opening ceremony uniforms. Lacoste, founded in 1933, is the epitome of French sportswear and has translated that sportswear attitude into uniforms that are classic with a modern twist. Designed in Paris and manufactured in the companies factories in Troyes, the tailored mens jackets are quilted with down, while the women’s jackets are a little less constructed with a simple wrap design and are belted at the waist. The sweaters have a great color palette that is graphic, yet understated in white, charcoal and red.

Known for his classic tailoring and chic sophistication, Giorgio Armani encapsulates Italian fashion beyond any other designer in that country.

For this reason, the Italian team will be wearing Armani designed sportswear for the opening ceremony. The first line of the country’s national anthem is embroidered in gold lurex on to the chest next to the heart. White piping and banding on the windbreaker jackets are in sharp contrast to the navy background. This simple sophistication is trademark to Armani. Although the uniforms are among some of the cleanest in design, the thoughtful details are hallmark.

GAME CHANGER 47

Suit Supply of Amsterdam is responsible for the dapper and fashion forward looks of the Netherlands’ Olympians.

While classic in design, the combination of colors and modern approach to pairing textures is what sets this team apart. Grey flannel cargos paired with a double breasted blazer in a “new” plaid in rust and navy is worn over a sky blue shirt adorned with a dandy like bowtie. The navy jacket worn atop is classic with a breast pocket popped with a rust pocket square. For the ladies, the same plaid pattern is realized in a classic shift dress and has a zip front sport inspired jacket worn on top. The design elements are chic and sophisticated, while the pairing is whimsical and uniquely fresh.

While the US, France and The Netherlands channeled a sophisticated and conservative look for their Opening Ceremony uniforms, Germany took a different approach. Lime green, canary and aqua appliquéd in horizontal stripes bring a freshness and modern attitude to the uniforms. The color palette was inspired by the Sochi (located on the Black Sea coast) landscape with colors of the sea, palms, snow, mountains and sand. The uniforms are a departure from always sticking to the country’s flag colors. In 1936 the German winter Olympic team partnered with Bogner and since that time the company based in Munich has designed the Olympic uniforms for 17 consecutive winter Olympics. This year for Sochi the company’s head designer, Gotthardin Thylmann, has infused bright bold colors with a traditional attitude and a sportif vibe, including a unique print option in pants with shades of orange and red.

Whether you watch for the fashion, the entertainment or the actually sporting events, this year’s runway of designs are not to be missed. Each country’s uniform is a direct reflection of each country’s passion and traditions, and a sense of camaraderie and patriotism among the Olympians.

48 GAME CHANGER

AY !

DW OA BR ON W CIRCLE IN THE SQUARE THEATRE • W. 50th St. (btwn Bway & 8th Ave.)

BronxBombersPlay.com

Illustration by Mark Ulriksen.

NO

Telecharge.com or 212-239-6200

GAME CHANGER 49

Every Olympic games, we watch for the athletes, outfits, Gold Medals and infamous stumbles. During the two week event, we occasionally get glimpses of the mascots for the games. These little guys have taken on many different shapes and sizes over the years, from cuddle little bears, to abstract creatures that represent pieces and parts of the region to hope and destiny. The Olympic mascot has come to be one of the most sought after and at the same time forgotten icons of the games. Starting in 1968, an unofficial mascot made his way into the spotlight.

Schuss, a stylized version of a skier, was created as a toy to sell during the Grenoble games. Schuss lit a spark in the following years that created a notion for the Winter Games to all have mascots. Let’s take a journey down memory lane and see who paved the way for The Hare, The Polar Bear and The Leopard as they lead us to Sochi 2014.

the story behind 50 GAME CHANGER

the

ma

THE HARE, THE POLAR BEAR & THE LEOPARD -2014

SCHUSS - 1968

The first unofficial mascot of a Winter Games.

In proper ode to the current times, the Sochi mascots were chosen by a nationwide Russian text-vote on television. The first (and only) “Sochi Idol�, if you will, winners were selected to represent the three places on the Olympic podium. The animals are also representative of the three main geographic areas of Russia. The Polar Bear, comes from the Arctic Circle and represents the bobsleigh, speed skating, and curling. The Leopard, young and energetic, comes from the mountain regions of Russia and represents skiing and snowboarding. The Hare is from the forest regions of the country and is representative of the arts and culture of the land.

ascots

GAME CHANGER 51

SCHNEEMANN Innsbruck, Austria 1976 Literally means “Snowman” Created as a “lucky charm” to make sure there was snow for the games, unlike the snowless 1964 games in the same place.

RONI Lake Placid, US 1980 Iroquois for “Raccoon” Black eyes represent the goggles/glasses competitors wear. First mascot shown practicing different sports.

SUKKI, NOKKI, LEKKI AND TSUKKI Nagano, Japan 1998 Also known as “the snowlets,” these owls are representative of the 4 years that make up an Olympiad. Standing for “Fire,Air,Earth and Water,” the ‘snow’ in “snowlets” is in reference to the winter season, while ‘lets’ is short for “let’s go.” If you remove the ‘sn’ from “snowlets,” you can also see that is spells ‘owlets.’ And that’s just getting started.....

52 GAME CHANGER

VUCKO Sarajevo, Bosnia 1984 Created to break down the impression that wolves a nothing but ferocious beast. The wolf represents courage and strength in many Yugoslavian fairy tales.

POWDER, COAL AND COPPER Salt Lake City, US 2002 The names are in relation to Utah’s natural resources (Coal and Copper) as well as the abundant snow (Powder).

The quick hare, the coyotes climbing skills and bear’s sheer

HIDY AND HOWDY Calgary, Canada 1988 Short for “Hi, How do you do?” These cute polar bears were chosen to represent the #1 selling stuffed animal. As, brown bears are hibernating, the committee chose polar bears, since they are active in the season.

MAGIQUE Albertville, France 1992 A blend of a star and a cube, “magic,” is representative of dreams and imagination.

Magique was the first “nonanimal” mascot since the Innsbruck games in 1976.

NEVE AND GLIZ Turin, Italy 2006 Short for the Italian words, “ghiaccio and neve,” which mean literally “snow and ice.” Gliz’s sharp, bold lines equate to the power and strength of the athletes.

While Neve’s softened, curved edges are representative of the grace, elegance and harmony of movement.

HAAKON AND KRISTIN Lillehammer, Norway 1994 Based on historical figures that brought peace to the region during the 13th century, they were the first mascots to feature actual people. There were 16 children selected, out of 10,000 to portray the mascots during the games.

QUATCHI AND MIGA Vancouver 2010 Quatchi is a sasquatch that hails from the forests of western Canada. The sasquatch is a popular character in fables from the area. Miga is a killer whale/Kermode bear, or “bear spirit,” hybrid. If you’re lucky, you can find some Mukmuk merchandise, an unofficial third mascot of the games.

For more information on the winter mascots, or summer mascots, you can visit:www.olympic.org

GAME CHANGER 53

54 GAME CHANGER

GAME CHANGER 55

STADIUM: Sports Authority Field at Mile High • 76,000 capacity • Stunning views of the Rockies TOUCHDOWN CELEBRATION Mile High Salute • Began between 95-02 • Started by Terrell Davis • The phrase “Mile High Salute” is Trademarked BIGGEST MUSICAL FAN The Fray • American Rock Band • New Artist Year - 2007 • 341K Twitter Followers • 4 Grammy Noms, 0 Wins MASCOT Miles • Founded 1999 • ”Read Like a Pro” Reading Program • 7,000 Twitter Followers LIVING MASCOT Thunder • Arabian Stallion • Founded 1993 • Leads the team out of the Tunnel and Gallops down the field every touchdown 56 GAME CHANGER

V

VS

STADIUM: CenturyLink Field • 67,000 capacity • Spectacular view of downtown Seattle • Loudest of all Stadiums, Home of the 12th Man TOUCHDOWN CELEBRATION Skittles Toss • 2011 TV Cameras caught a trainer feeding Marshawn Lynch “Power Pellets” • Skittles has made “Seattle Mix” for Super Bowl BIGGEST MUSICAL FAN Macklemore • American Rapper • New Artist Year - 2014 • 2.1M Twitter Followers • 7 Grammy Noms, 4 Wins MASCOT Blitz • Founded 1998 • ”Ready, Set, Goals!”

Reading Program • 6,400 Twitter Followers LIVING MASCOT Taima (name means “Thunder”) • Augur Hawk • Founded 2007 • Leads the team out of the Tunnel GAME CHANGER 57

“ ” Y A D A I MED

Media Day is a chance for the players and coaches to answer the press’ burning questions. Reporters have fun, dress in wild outfits to get noticed in the sea of people, and it all plays out for the fans to witness.

Can you find Waldo below?

“I want to be like Peyton one day.” “I’m terrified of puking on Sunday.”

- Russell Wilson - Wesley Woodyard “Complacency ends careers” - Champ Bailey

58 GAME CHANGER

“Cold weather is great for the D, because the offense always feels it.”

- Kameron Chancellor

L A M I N A

X L W O PPY B

U P S ’ T E PLANT

So, it’s not as exciting as it seems on TV. They’re really cute puppies and the event is SOLD OUT. There are even games and a gift shop. But what they don’t tell you is that puppies are babies.... and babies love to sleep.. A LOT. But the free stuff and photo ops with the dogs are pretty awesome.

“ ”

L E P S O G

N O I T A R CELEB

“This is important because we have a platform to show that you don’t have to be soft to go to church. Gospel Celebration is about rising above and being role models, not just for the public but for other players as well.”

- Jason Avant

“We had both given up on singing competitions. Now we’re performing at Madison Square Garden for 6,000 people with Grammy Award Winning Artists.”

- Kristen Jameson & Valaree Draine

(Winners of the American Family Insurance Singing Competition) *pictured at left

GAME CHANGER 59

GRIDIRON GREATS: VINTAGE FOOTBALL CARDS IN THE COLLECTION OF JEFFERSON R. BURDICK First the first time ever, the Met will display vintage football cards. Known for having the largest collection of baseball cards, care of Jefferson R. Burdick, the Met celebrates the old pig skin. The collection contains cards from 1894-1948, the era before the NFL when we celebrated college athletes as pros. The exhibit not only includes Jim Thorpe and Knute Rockne, but it features an early 1900’s collegiate football sweater and stunning sports photography. Hurry in before this piece of Americana is placed back in the vault.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York More info at www.metmuseum.org Through February 10, 2014 These cards from Goudey Gum Company, Sport Kings, from 1933, are just three of the featured cards on display at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Knute Rockne

Jim Thorpe

Red Grange

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Jefferson R. Burdick Collection, Gift of Jefferson R. Burdick (Burdick 326, R338) Digital Image: © The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Jefferson R. Burdick Collection, Gift of Jefferson R. Burdick (Burdick 326, R338) Digital Image: © The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Jefferson R. Burdick Collection, Gift of Jefferson R. Burdick (Burdick 326, R338) Digital Image: © The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

60 GAME CHANGER

25 YEARS OF MADDEN NFL The Museum of the Moving Image will have a one-ofa-kind exhibit that is sure to get sports gamers off the couch. The exhibit will celebrate the classic video game, not only through displays but 5 playable versions of the game, including the original Apple II. The best part is, you can take the kids to a museum, set them loose and sit down to re-live your own childhood. Two birds. One Stone.

Credit: Images courtesy EA Sports.

Museum of the Moving Image, New York For more info: www.movingimage.us Through February 23, 2014

The first Madden vs. Madden 2014.

GAME CHANGER 61

jim tu 62 GAME CHANGER

The history of the National Football League revolves around players and coaches, names on jerseys, and the guys calling all the shots and winning the games. But on that same field, there are some men who never get their name on a jersey and are sometimes on the receiving end of a 60,000 person ‘Boo.’ The referees are always there, making close calls, and doing their best to make sure the game is played fair on all sides. Some of them even have more Super Bowl rings than even Robert Griffin III would ever imaging receiving. Jim Tunney is one of those men.

Actually he’s the best of them all, nicknamed “the Dean of NFL Referees,” and has been on the job for more 31 years.

Very rarely does a game become so memorable it gets a nickname, “the Ice, Snow, Fog Bowls,” “The Catch,” “The Field Goal,” and possibly the most famous: “The Fumble.”

We remember these games because there was something special about each one. The common denominator in all of those games: Jim Tunney. Tunney never guessed he’d be on hand at each and every turning moment in NFL history.

“I grew up in San Gabriel in a much simpler, beautiful time. We lived about nine houses from the playground, and I only remember three seasons, football, baseball and basketball.”

Tunney grew up playing every sport and was always outside with a bat, or a ball in his hand. He began to have a passion for football and dreamed of one day being that superstar player who scored a touchdown in the Super Bowl. Unfortunately for Tunney, he dislocated his shoulder and had to stop playing. His sports life wasn’t about to rest, and he continued to play basketball at the collegiate level.

While he was playing, he was offered a chance to referee a kids league Saturday mornings.

Tunney graduated from college and began to work as a teacher in the public school system. That love he had for being a referee stayed with him.

“I was teaching and coaching and the pay was limited.

unney GAME CHANGER 63

So I began to referee high school and junior college games, but what I really wanted was Division 1 and to work at the collegiate level.”

Luckily for Tunney, he made friends and was known around sports for his ability to referee games. In 1960, at 31 years of age, Tunney received a phone call from the NFL, asking him to come on as a field judge. What Tunney didn’t know is that his position on the west coast was going to make him a valuable player in the league.

“The Pro Bowl was held in L.A. and it was the biggest game. During that time, there were two of us based in L.A. and the league didn’t want to fly out referees from the east coast. I was able to work six Pro Bowl’s in a row.”

Through the week, Tunney worked as a high school Principal, but on the weekends, he was on the football field.

“You get evaluated each week,” he said. “Every Sunday, they judge your performance and there’s a grading system. In 1965, I had been selected, based on my performance, to referee my first playoff game, between the Baltimore Colts and the Green Bay Packers.”

The process for getting to the big games, was just to do your job to the best of your ability. The hardest part of any referees job is to study and know all of the rules. They don’t get to carry a booklet around to make sure they know which penalty is correct. They have to remember every last detail. That hard work paid off in 1972 as Tunney got a phone call he’ll never forget.

“You got it,” the voice on the other end of the phone said.

“What?” Tunney asked.

“You got IT.” “Got what?” Tunney asked again.

“The Super Bowl.”

The guys in stripes are always the “visitor,” as Tunney points out. The officials never have a home game and it’s always ‘7 vs. 70,000.’ The key to being a referee is making split-second calls that are consistent with the rules.

“No call is controversial at the time. When a referee sees something, they call it. It isn’t until they replay the call four or five times that you get to see what the official called in a quick moment.”

These words are so true. The third team on the field is the referees and it’s their job to make the game as fair as they possibly can. Sometimes there are mistakes and missed calls, but in the moment, they have to make a decision.

“I remember a call. It was in the Superdome, Super Bowl XII. There was no instant replay, but I remember seeing a foot go out of bounds when the quarterback rolled right to throw. I threw my flag. I know I saw it. It seemed as if I was the only one. The crowd wasn’t happy and the team was upset. It wasn’t until about 4 days later, I received a picture from a photographer. I was right, he stepped out of bounds.”

Tunney appreciates the hard work his fellow members of the ‘referee team’ put in these days.

“I’ve had a chance to see almost every crew.

The referees this past year have been the most dedicated and well informed, conscious men on the field. They watch their films on the flights home and they have meetings with their supervisors to talk about each game. These guys today are so concerned about every call they make each game, they are the best quality officials we’ve ever had.”

Now Tunney spends a lot of his time writing his weekly column (“The Tunney Side of Sports”), he’s been involved with many publications (“Chicken Soup for the Sport’s Fans Soul,” “Impartial Judgment: “The Dean of NFL Referees” Calls Pro Football As He Sees It”) and public speaking.

“I remember watching my father referee the Rose “I bring my experiences to these people. My job has Bowl game in January of 1940,” Tunney said. “He said been visible and they can relate to my stories. I try to to me ‘that Jackie Robinson is going to be one of the make sure I inspire people to go to the next level [and greatest athletes that ever played.’ I was able to watch ask] ‘did I leave this audience better than when they my dad referee a game that the great Jackie Robinson arrived?’” played in.”

Tunney’s passion for the game translates to his role 30 years later, Tunney was chosen to take part in as a public speaker for audiences around the nation.

Super Bowl XI, a moment which became the most He shows no signs of stopping as he continues to memorable moment in his career. work with the league, write his columns and connect “I walked onto that field in Pasadena, and I with the public. Tunney lives his life in the same way remembered that day I watched my dad and Jackie he always has: “Just keep the music playing.”

Robinson. That game was so special because I was able to referee on the same field I saw my dad referee WWW.TUNNEYSIDEOFSPORTS.COM 30 years before.”

64 GAME CHANGER

GAME CHANGER 65

the gc

MVP

66 GAME CHANGER

In 2007, Ian Oliver brought a team of 16-year-old girls to South Africa.

Their mission was to use soccer as a vehicle to create a cross-cultural exploration and education about HIV and AIDS. What emerged was a program which has conquered cultural issues globally, using soccer as a medium for young women in the United States to connect with their international peers.

Goals for Girls, is a non-profit organization that was created to “provide important lessons on and off the field that help young people develop including discipline, commitment, healthy behaviors and GAME CHANGER 67

communication,” Oliver explains. “The game sets the stage for effective learning because it breaks down cultural barriers, creates opportunities to teach from the game and brings communities together around important issues.”

These are some of the same things Jackie Skinner saw in the game while she was working with HELP International in Uganda. During the week, she worked with the organization, but on weekends, Skinner was able to do as she pleased. She found “The Kids League,” an organization that uses sport as a way to reintegrate children into lives of normalcy.

“They’re kids affected by war, child soldiers, sex slaves, children who have lost parents,” Skinner describes. “They use sport to give them a support system, hope and a way to re-socialize.”

The impact this organization had on its society really struck a chord with Skinner.

“One day I went to see a game with the director and he said to me, ‘I want these girls to see their potential.’”

68 GAME CHANGER

Skinner remember those words because that was the moment that led her to Goals for Girls.

“I wanted that for my girls. They were white, upper middle class and all the same religion, but I wanted that for them. I wanted them to see their potential.”

That’s when Skinner went back to the States and searched for a way to bring her girls to Uganda to help both sets of young ladies grow.

At this point, Oliver had no intention of continuing Goals for Girls, until he received a call from Skinner.

She had come across his trip to South Africa and knew that if anyone could help get her girls to Northern Uganda, Oliver was the guy. When he picked up the phone, Skinner explained what she was hoping to do and Oliver asked Skinner to join him. Goals for Girls was officially taking their second trip and the organization had truly begun.

Recently, the organization has found support from soccer celebrities and one of their biggest supporters is Cindy Parlow. Many of us may remember her from

the “glory days” of women’s soccer, the two-time Olympic Gold Medalist team, and the FIFA World Cup Champions.

Parlow was drawn to the program because, “I truly believe that the greatest gift you can give the world is to change the life of a child.”

Parlow having a soccer background and being well known in the industry allows the girls to see that someone they have idolized in “history books” supports the work they are doing.

Skinner and the girls don’t look at Parlow for her celebrity or skills, but as a vital member of the core values of the program.

“Cindy rarely talks about her achievements, instead she talks to the girls about life, and goals not just for the trip, but in life and lessons learned. Every night during the India trip, Cindy asked the girls ‘What did you see today that was beautiful?’” Skinner adds, “She told them to look for it always, it’s always there.”

This is what Goals for Girls is about, not just soccer but empowering young women to keep their eyes open and dreams large so they can achieve anything they set their mind to.

When they go on these trips, they have no idea what they are heading into, but both Parlow and Skinner plan as much as they can.

Parlow stated “It is difficult to predict what the outcomes will be because every trip is so different due to different countries, organizations, and young girls we will be working with.”

Skinner agrees. “We tend to brace ourselves for the worst and hope for the best. Working in developing countries can be tricky with different perceptions of time, people getting sick with the change in diet, dealing with different cultural norms which lead to miscommunications left and right.” She adds, “Miraculously, minor things have come up, but overall we have been blown away by what unfolds.

It is really amazing how sport can connect girls from completely different backgrounds and be a tool for empowerment.”

So why soccer? According to their website, “Soccer provides important lessons both on and off the field, including discipline, commitment, healthy behaviors and peer communication.” Parlow also believes, “learning to work as a team, goal setting, self-confidence, resilience and building positive relationships.”

“And to never give up,” Skinner adds.

The program is built so that the adults merely act as chaperones and facilitators of discussions. Part of the success of Goals for Girls is that peers are able to GAME CHANGER 69

interact with each other.

“The girls feel more comfortable sharing things about their lives with each other, they tend to ‘sensor’ less and be open to what they are really thinking and feeling.” Skinner adds, “Our girls get to see that they are able to be leaders at a young age. When a girl believes that she is capable of impacting and changing lives at such a young age, there’s no limit to the amount of impact she will have in her life.”

The effect the program has globally is beyond what any of these volunteers could have imagined.

“It is important globally because it not only teaches girls soccer,” Parlow said, “but it teaches them that in many cultures around the world, girls and women are discriminated against. If we can teach them that they can play sports, that they can be entrepreneurs and leaders, they’ll gain confidence and slowly can change the way women are viewed.”

Skinner adds, “in some of these countries, there are no ‘soccer role models,’ native player or a bar set that shows what one can achieve. Our girls enter these countries, where there is gender discrepancy and soccer is just beginning, and our young girls become the role models for women and soccer for the host country girls.”

Soccer allows dialogue to open about disease and social issues that affect the girls in each country they visit. On their most recent trip to India, they worked with girls affected by leprosy. They worked to help

70 GAME CHANGER

break down the stigma associated with the disease, as well as the social inequalities that women face in the country.

“We broke up into small teams to visit leprosy colonies,” Skinner explains, “many of which were homes to the young girls we were teaching soccer to.

Our girls helped them remove old bandages, wash their feet, give them eye drops and more. It was one of those moments I was so proud that our girls got out of their comfort zones to care and love for these strangers.” These beautiful moments are the ones that the coaches remember and validate the purpose of Goals for Girls.

These trips aren’t over as soon as the girls arrive back in the United States. Parlow explains, “On every trip, we make sure each girl has a pen pal. They keep in touch via letter writing, email or Facebook. This program helps the girls in the long run, we not only leave them with necessary life skills, but also a grant to continue the program after we have gone.”

“For some (American girls), Goals for Girls has impacted the path they chose in college.” Skinner recalls, “Some have gone on to study International Development, and Public Health based on their experiences in the group. Others have funded girls they visited to continue through secondary school, started non-profits that we have partnered with, as well as starting smaller Goals for Girls units in their own communities.”

This young organization is creating big strides in communities all across the United States and Internationally. Goals for Girls is continuing their hard work globally and hopes to continue to increase their immediate and long-term impact young girls.

The trip to India was not only successful for the group, but it allowed Skinner to expand her ability to reach young minds. She was able meet with YUWA, a Indian based soccer organization for disadvantaged girls, and join with them to continue to help in India when the rest of her team had come back home.

Looking back on the trip, Parlow remembered one girl told her “Cindy, I never knew that I could set a goal and then do it before today.”

This moment stuck out to Parlow for a few reasons.

“First, her life was changed just by simply empowering her and helping her realize that she is special and has a say in what she does with her life,” she said. “Second, her passion for soccer was incredible, it reminded me how I felt as a kid and renewed my passion for the game. Last, it confirmed what I knew: soccer is a beautiful game that has a way of bringing people together and helping us learn about ourselves and others.”

For more information go to www.goalsforgirls.org

GAME CHANGER 71

72 GAME CHANGER

PROFESSIONAL BULL RIDING

THE RIDERS. THE BULLS. THE CLOWNS. WE HAVE AN INSIDE LOOK AT THE START OF THE 2014 SEASON. PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYAN BRINSON GAME CHANGER 73 STORY BY GARY SHACKLEFORD

When Alicia Keys belted out “Concrete jungle where dreams are made of, there’s nothing you can’t do, now you’re in New York,” one can only assume she didn’t have the intention for her lyrics to resonate with the Professional Bull Riding (PBR) Built Ford Tough Series.

But, on January 3, 2014, 35 men drove into Madison Square Garden and literally took the competition by the horns.

The series, which began in 1992 by 20 bull riders willing to invest in an event for their fans, is nothing short of any other spectacle you see on Broadway.

As the time creeps closer to 8pm, you can feel the audience, riders and even the bulls in the pens start to get anxious for the event. Then the lights go down and BAM, huge explosions set off the night, lighting ‘PBR’ on fire in the dirt. The fans immediately jump to their feet as the fireworks continue to go off. One by one, the riders make their entrance into Madison Square Garden, fans cheering for all, but a little extra for their favorites.

74 GAME CHANGER

But right before the announcer says the name of last year’s World Champion, the crowd erupts. At this moment, the entire arena become fans of JB Mauney. The roar rivals the cheers The Knicks or Rangers may hear on another night at the Garden.

At $750 per minute, there is so much energy, passion and excitement that is poured out over that first 15 minutes of the night, the amount of money spent by the PBR is worth every cent.

Last year, the PBR saw records broken, dreams smashed and the best fight to the finish the World Bull Riding Championships has ever seen in Las Vegas.

2014 was not about to start off any less exciting.

Going into Friday night, reigning champion JB Mauney let the world know he was going to fight for the championship last year when he took on Bushwacker. Just as popular as the riders, the bulls are some of the meanest, strongest and toughest athletes out there. Bushwacker made headlines and became a fan favorite as he started throwing off man-after-

GAME CHANGER 75

man, 42 in a row to be exact. Mauney stepped up to the challenge and refused to become the 43rd man to get bucked off, watching the video of Mauney’s ride, you can see the excitement on the fans faces when the clock ran to 8. From here on out, Mauney made a push for the championship, and he rode 11 bulls in a row, including all 6 bulls at the championships, to take the World Title. Mauney was the first of many riders to make a mark during his weekend in NYC. He rode all 4 of his bulls and tied the all-time record for consecutive bull rides in PBR history at 15.

Injuries seemed to plague many of the riders, not that riding a bull wouldn’t have risks, 2014 was the year of the ‘comebacks.’ Robson Palermo won the 2013 Buck Off at the Garden here in NYC with an amazing 90 point ride on Whitewater Trouble. After that first weekend, he was plagued by injuries in both shoulders. What most people don’t realize, these athletes don’t make a living off of the circuit alone.

“I spend all week at the ranch, then on Friday I fly to the event. We ride all weekend then on Sunday I fly back home,” Palermo said.

They don’t have the recovery time that most other athletes have, they take their bumps and bruises home and spend the week doing rigorous physical labor. Palermo took most of last season off to have surgery on his shoulder, rehabilitate and come back with a bang in 2014. That he did, as Palmero took to the ring and rode his way into the championship round at the Garden.

PBR, more than any other sport, is a family. Every rider, clown, wrangler and fan.

76 GAME CHANGER

“IT’S YOU AGAINST THE BULL. EVERY GUY WANTS TO WIN, BUT IF YOU CAN’T WIN, YOU GO OUT THERE AND ROOT FOR YOUR FRIEND.” -ROBSON PALMERO “It’s you against the bull. Every guy wants to win, but if you can’t win, you go out there and root for your friend,” Palermo added.

Two years ago, Pistol Robinson was at the Garden and had ridden his first two bulls well and keeping him in the top 10. On Sunday, Pistol went out on Carrillo Cartel hoping to cement his spot in the championships. What happened next was one of the most intense moments caught on tape, Pistol was bucked off and the bull came down on top of him.

Both his left tibia and right femur were broken, his season was over.

Pistol spent a total of six months in a wheelchair, and most of last year continuing to rehab for his return to a full Series in 2014. On Friday night, the whole arena was on the edge of their seat cheering

for Pistol and his first ride in NYC since he broke his legs. Even though he didn’t quite make it on Friday, the fans still cheered for him as we walked off the dirt.

Saturday night, his chance to get back at the Garden was up again and this time, he went to battle against Kujo. Once again, we watched Pistol lose his grip and hit the dirt.

In what could be only the most fitting of all situations, Sunday arrived and Pistol faced his last attempt to ride a bull. Sunday was the two year anniversary of his incident, the bulls on Sunday are a little tougher to ride than the past two nights, and the muscles are sore. Extreme was the name of the bull Pistol drew, and extreme was also the best way to describe the emotions that were about to pour out. The crowd grew with anticipation as the chute got ready to open. Cheers permeated the tense air and this time, he not only walked off the dirt, Pistol walked off after successfully riding Extreme for the full 8 seconds. The arena erupted into a standing ovation. The riders, clowns, announcers, everyone was Pistol’s biggest fan.

high and the outcome whether good or bad is always dramatic. PBR is the sport to watch in 2014, the year of the comeback kids, Mauney’s chase to win back-toback Championships, Palermo’s year to hold tight and Pistol’s first shot at a championship in two years.

The PBR is probably something most people don’t watch. Let’s be honest, they get the less-than-coveted 10pm time slot Saturday nights on the CBS Sports Network, but everyone should. These men, these group of elite athletes, are out there competing for the fans. They spend their weeks working hard and waking up early to take care of their livestock, farms and family. Each weekend, they choose to risk serious injury to give their fans the best show they can. The elements are always changing, the risks are always

GAME CHANGER 77

HOT. COOL. YOURS.

(Yeah it doesn’t make any sense to us either but it’s the motto of the Sochi Olympic Games and it’s tangentially food related so we put it here. Aren’t we thorough at Game Changer?)

78 GAME CHANGER

THE OLYMPICS MAY BE IN SOCHI, BUT WE’VE GOT A BATCH OF RECIPES READY SO YOU CAN BRING A LITTLE RUSSIA INTO YOUR VIEWING PARTY. GAME CHANGER 79

RECIPES BY LAURA VANSICKLE PHOTOS BY RYAN BRINSON

Stuffed Peppers 7-8 Bell peppers 1 lb lean ground beef 2/3 C cooked rice 1 onion 1 carrot 1 T oil 1 t salt ½ t pepper ½ C heavy cream 14 oz can tomato sauce 1 T Paprika 2 Bay leaves

80 GAME CHANGER

Core and seed peppers.

Dice onion, peel and grate carrot, and sauté in 1 T oil until browned. Drain on paper towel. In a large bowl, combine beef, rice, onion-carrot mixture, and salt & pepper.

In saucepan mix tomato sauce, cream, paprika, and 2 C water. Add stuffed peppers, making sure they don’t fall over.

Heat pot on high until sauce is boiling, then turn down to medium, cover and simmer for 45 minutes.

Pelmeni (Russian dumplings) •

• • • • • • •

Bag of Frozen Pelmeni (If you can’t find pre-made Pelmeni, here’s a great recipe for homemade: www. natashaskitchen.com/2011/05/09/russianpelmeni-recipe-new-dough-recipe/) 2 T butter 2 T flour 1 ½ C half and half 4 oz shredded mozzarella 4 oz shredded parmesan 1 T salt ½ T pepper

In large sauté pan, heat 2 T oil over medium-high heat, and add uncooked Pelmeni. Saute Pelmeni until golden brown on both sides. Set aside.

In large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, then add flour and whisk together to make a paste.

While whisking, slowly add half and half. Add salt and pepper. Continue whisking until combined and thickened into a sauce. Remove from heat, and stir in mozzarella and parmesan. Add browned Pelmini, mix together, and put in casserole dish. Bake in 400F oven until browned on top and bubbly, about 40 minutes.

Chicken Kiev • • • • •

4 Skinless, boneless chicken breasts 2 eggs, beaten with 1 T water ¾ C Flour 1 ½ C Bread crumbs Salt & Pepper

Kiev Butter: • 8 T butter, softened • 2 Garlic cloves • 1 T lemon juice • 2 T chopped parsley • ½ t salt • ½ t pepper

In small mixing bowl, combine all Kiev butter ingredients and place in freezer to set.

Butterfly each chicken breast. Cover each butterflied piece of chicken with a piece of plastic wrap or parchment, and pound

with mallet until roughly 1/8 inch thickness. Season each piece of chicken with salt and pepper. Place ¼ of the butter mixture in the center of the chicken, and fold all edges in, completely covering the butter. Place the chicken in the fridge for 2 hours, or overnight. Take 2 pie plates, and place the beaten eggs in one, and the breadcrumbs and flour in the other. Heat ½ inch oil in sauté pan over medium-high heat until temperature reaches 375F. Dip each breast in egg mixture, then roll in breadcrumb mixture. Place seam side down in heated sauté pan, and cook until golden brown on each side. When the internal temperature reaches 165F and all sides are golden brown, remove and place on cooling rack for 5-10 minutes to drain.

GAME CHANGER 81

Garlic Dip: • 1 C olive oil • 6 garlic cloves • 1 T salt • 3 T lemon juice

In blender, put garlic, salt, and lemon juice, and blend until garlic is finely minced. With blender on low, slowly pour in olive oil and keep blending until sauce is thickened.

Potato Pirozhki with Garlic dip Filling: • 7-8 Medium potatoes, peeled and cut into ½” chunks • 3 T butter • ½ medium onion • 1 T butter for onions Bring large pot of salted water to a boil, and add potatoes.

When water is boiling again, cover and reduce heat. Boil 18-20 minutes. Drain potatoes and mash with 3T butter, 2 T salt and 1 T pepper. In a frying pan, sauté diced onion in 1 T butter until browned. Mix onion with potatoes with onion and set aside to cool.

Dough: • 1 ½ T Vegetable oil • 15oz Lukewarm water • 4 C + 2T Flour (divided) • 1 t salt • 1 T Active dry yeast In large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast, and let sit for 2 minutes until yeast starts to activate. Add 4 C flour, salt, and oil. Mix until combined. Cover and set aside in a warm place and let rise. Put the finished dough on a floured surface and roll into a log shape. Slice the log into ¾ “ slices. Place a slice over your well-floured hand and shape into a 4” circle. Scoop a heaping tablespoon of filling into the dough, fold dough over to cover potato, and seal the edges to make a pocket. Heat oil to 330 degrees in a large pan. Use enough oil to go halfway up the side of the Pirozhki. Place them in the hot oil and cook until golden brown on each side. Place on paper towels to drain.

82 GAME CHANGER

Honey Cake

Trubochki (Cream Horns)

• • • • • •

• • • • • •

1 C sugar 2 eggs, beaten ¼ C butter 2 T honey 2 t powder 3 C flour

Preheat oven to 375. In large mixing bowl, whisk sugar and eggs.

In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add honey, egg & sugar mixture, and powder. Stir constantly until well blended and foamy.

Take off of heat and stir in flour. Separate dough into 6 equal balls.

Roll each ball into ¼ inch circles on parchment rounds. Bake each round on cookie sheet for 3-5 minutes and let cool.

Filling: • 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk • 3 eggs, beaten • 2 T honey • ¼ C butter In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine all ingredients, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil, and let boil until thickened.

Remove from heat and let cool.

Starting with a cake layer, alternate cake and filling, and finish with a layer of filling on top. Let cake sit for 6-8 hours before serving.

Puff Pastry 4oz Cream Cheese 2 C Confectioners sugar 2 T Lemon juice 8oz cream cheese, softened 8 T butter, softened

Roll puff pastry onto floured surface and cut into ½ “ wide strips. Wrap pastry strips around cream horn molds, starting at the bottom, and overlapping slightly as you go. Place in fridge to cool. Preheat oven to 400F, and cook cones for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Once cooled, pull pastry cones from molds.

In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese, butter, lemon juice, and confectioners sugar with hand mixer.

Once light and fluffy, put filling into a piping bag. Pipe filling into cooled horn shells, and dust with powdered sugar.

Gold Medal

White Russian

• • • • •

• • •

¾oz Cointreau 2oz Silver Rum 1oz Peach Nectar ¾oz Lemon juice 3 Mint leaves, muddled

2oz Vodka 1oz Kahlua Heavy cream

GAME CHANGER 83

THE

QUIZ JIM TUNNEY:

Nachos or Hot Dogs?

Every halftime, hot dog with mustard and relish.

Outdoor Stadium or Dome?

Outside, there’s no better place to be.

Print-At-Home or Will Call?

Got to have the Official Ticket from the window.

LUI PAN TO BARTON:

Favorite Athlete?

Charles Hamelin, that man is a short track god. He’s just the man *fist pump* If you could race anyone, who would it be?

The President of the United States. I’m probably faster than him, so I could win and then offer to him lessons. It would be an honor.

If you’re weren’t a speed skater, what would you be?

I’d be a normal asian and do math. But really, I’d like to have my own coffee shop.

CINDY PARLOW:

If you could go 1-on-1 with any soccer player who would it be?

Zinadine Zidane. He has always been my favorite and I try to emulate him.

Best snack to eat at a soccer game?

Cotton Candy.

What is the best weather to play in?

Warm rain. Freezing rain is the worst.

Favorite moment in soccer history?

Winning the 1999 FIFA World Cup.

ANGIE MALONE:

What is your favorite activity other than curling?

I love sea kayaking during the summer off the Isle of Cumbrae.

If you could have dinner with any athlete, who would it be?

Nadia Comaneci. When I was 4 I watched her compete.

I was enthralled by her, then by her story and challenging life, I would be so interested in speaking to her.

What is your favorite Olympic Moment?

I have three. Tourvil and Dean winning in Sarajevo.

Rhona Martin & Team GB winning in Salt Lake City. The London Olympics.

84 GAME CHANGER

KRIS MARTIN:

Who do you want to face on the track?

Dale Earnhardt, Jr. He’s my favorite.

Favorite Track?

Watkins Glen. I love road courses, the shifting and turns are challenging.

Favorite snack at the track?

Funnel Cake and Beer. One time I went to a race, got excited and jumped up to cheer, I spilled my funnel cake all over a man’s back. Luckily, he didn’t notice.

Key moment in racing history?

Watching Greg Moore’s crash in ‘99. I remember watching it all and it really touched me. Also, Dale Sr.’s crash. It’s going to be weird seeing his number on the track again.

NICK BUCKLAND:

What other sport would you compete in?

It would have to be something where you could be the first across the line, like speed skating or cycling.

What is your favorite moment?

Vancouver Opening. It was so amazing to be a part of something so special. The opening defines what the Olympics are all about.

If you could compete against anyone in history who would it be?

Tourvil and Dean, they would improv Penny and my performance just by being in their presence it would be an honor.

DEVON HARRIS:

Opening or Closing Ceremonies?

Opening Ceremony. At the closing, when they extinguish that flame, theres this ‘woosh’ sound.

When you hear it, you can feel all of the energy of the past few days just get sucked out of the stadium.

Favorite NBA team?

Miami Heat. I root for them because I wanted Lebron to prove himself the way we did. I felt like people wanted to see him fail on his new team.

Nobody should feel like that, like we did. That’s why I root for him.

GAME CHANGER 85

GC GAME CHANGER MAGAZINE

86 GAME CHANGER

WWW.THEGCMAG.COM