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On Saturday, November 26, the tradition continued for the 47th consecutive year. Weather for the game was less than ideal, with temperatures in the low 50’s and rain that never stopped; the field was muddy and people were sliding all over. The rain may not have stopped, but that didn’t keep over 20 participants from all over the country from participating in a game of football.

It’s normal for people to travel from as far east as Pittsburgh and as far west as California to play in the annual game. The game no longer matches up the brothers’ friends; for many years now the old guys face off against the young guys. This year the cut was 34 years old, which actually put me on the “young guys” team with the opportunity to play the line and face-off with one of the originals, John Mohan, who still plays at the age of 64. John has hinted of retiring after the 50th game, but we will see! This year’s game brought about a number of firsts in Toilet Bowl history: two safeties and a two-point conversion. The rules committee is not sure how a two-point conversion was possible but it allowed the old guys to score the final point of the game and tie the young guys.

As younger people continue to get involved in the game, usually someone asks how the game got its name as the “Toilet Bowl”.  Bob Mohan is always happy to say “we named it for the way we play.”  The game features a toilet and a trophy on the sidelines.  The toilet has been signed by most participants and the trophy was fittingly named “The Brass Ball Award”, which honors the players who have been hurt during past games. Only seven names appear on the award and it appears no new names will be added after this years game. The trophy is also decorated with pictures and two hats – one that includes a quote from long-time participant, the late Randy Spiers. The quote reads, “I just want to be able to know that the Saturday after Thanksgiving, I am going to be playing in the Toilet Bowl for the rest of my life.”

Following the game, participants head to the Broadway Tap in Streator for a post-game celebration and to catch up. Memories from past Toilet Bowls are frequently discussed and laughs can be heard throughout the entire building. The group also decides who will get to hold onto the toilet until the next year. Usually the winner is an original member who did not show up and the toilet is then delivered to their front yard.

As is always the case, this years game was a success. More than a game, it’s an opportunity for family and friends to reunite one day each year in the same place. The best way I can describe it is special.

Do you participate in similar events and traditions?  Let us know, we want to hear your stories.

The Good in Sports salutes all Toilet Bowl participants and wishes all of them the best of luck in 2012!

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All good things must come to an end: Texas-Texas A&M

COLLEGE STATION, Texas – It has been said that all good things must come to an end, and that reigned especially true Thursday night in Texas – a place where football is considered a religion by many. The long-standing Texas (Longhorns)-Texas A&M (Aggies) rivalry came to end with a thrilling, last-second field goal by the Longhorns to seal the deal on bragging rights for many years to come with a 27-25 win over the Aggies in College Station.

One of the oldest rivalries in college football, the two teams met for the 118^th time on Thanksgiving; the rivalry dates back to 1894, with Texas holding the winning record at 76-37-5.

The end of the era comes as the Aggies sought out and accepted an invitation to join the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 2012, after the Longhorns landed a $300 million deal from ESPN to launch the Longhorn Network.

Though the very essence of rivalry is one of hatred and angst, a rare, but beautiful moment was had between the two teams during the 1999 season when the two teams became brothers, if only for a short time. On November 18, 1999, 59-foot logs that were set up in College Station for the annual bonfire held before each Texas-Texas A&M game, collapsed, killing 12 A&M students.

On the A&M campus, a bonfire memorial service was held both at the site of the collapse, and at the A&M Reed Arena. Meanwhile, 100 miles west, the Longhorns canceled their annual Aggie Hex Rally and instead held a tribute to the fallen Aggies at the Texas State Capitol. The bells on the school tower rang out in tribute, and the Longhorn band played The Spirit of Aggieland.

Eight days after the tragedy, the two schools met in College Station to play ball. Before the game, 12 white doves were released and four F-16 jets, piloted by A&M graduates, did a flyover in the missing-man formation. The Longhorn band played Amazing Grace at halftime, allowing a time of remembrance. A&M flags flew high, alongside UT’s – a moment of semblance rarely seen between the two schools. The Aggies would go on to win 20-16 in incredible, last-minute fashion.

So while many fans across the state, and the country, are saddened by the end of the most storied rivalry in Texas’ history, we can look back at a time when the two teams joined together and remember the brotherhood that only sports can bring.

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Copyright © 2011 The Good in Sports, Inc. All rights reserved.

On Sunday, November 20, the 17^th Annual Toy Drive was held prior to the Lions home game against the Carolina Panthers. Fans who attended the game were asked to help United States Marine Corps soldiers who sponsored the drive for Toys for Tots. WXYZ-Channel 7, 97.1 The Ticket, and Central Michigan Movers also helped sponsor the event. Once again, the Lions were a part of the Thanksgiving tradition.

Additionally, in 1991 former Lions equipment manager Dan Jaroshewich, now of Ford Field, started a coat drive to help those needing help to stay warm. Twenty-one years later, with thousands of coats donated, the annual drive is still going strong. The Lions’ Annual Coat Drive was held at Ford Field prior to the November 24 Thanksgiving match-up against The Green Bay Packers.

The Lions asked fans who are attended the game to donate clean, gently used coats or blankets to help those who are less fortunate in the metro Detroit area stay warm this winter.

The Good in Sports proudly salutes The Detroit Lions and their efforts to make sure everyone enjoys and stays warm during the holiday season and presents them with a Gold Star!

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Copyright © 2011 The Good in Sports, Inc. All rights reserved.

One of the oldest rivalries in college football, the two teams met for the 118^th time on Thanksgiving; the rivalry dates back to 1894, with Texas holding the winning record at 76-37-5.

The end of the era comes as the Aggies sought out and accepted an invitation to join the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 2012, after the Longhorns landed a $300 million deal from ESPN to launch the Longhorn Network.

Though the very essence of rivalry is one of hatred and angst, a rare, but beautiful moment was had between the two teams during the 1999 season when the two teams became brothers, if only for a short time. On November 18, 1999, 59-foot logs that were set up in College Station for the annual bonfire held before each Texas-Texas A&M game collapsed, killing 12 A&M students.

On the A&M campus, a bonfire memorial service was held both at the site of the collapse, and at the A&M Reed Arena. Meanwhile, 100 miles west, the Longhorns canceled their annual Aggie Hex Rally and instead held a tribute to the fallen Aggies at the Texas State Capitol. The bells on the school tower rang out in tribute, and the Longhorn band played The Spirit of Aggieland.

Eight days after the tragedy, the two schools met in College Station to play ball. Before the game, 12 white doves were released and four F-16 jets, piloted by A&M graduates, did a flyover in the missing-man formation. The Longhorn band played Amazing Grace at halftime, allowing a time of remembrance. A&M flags flew high, alongside UT’s – a moment of unity rarely seen between the two schools. The Aggies would go on to win 20-16 in incredible, last-minute fashion.

So while many fans across the state, and the country, are saddened by the end of the most storied rivalry in Texas’ history, we can look back at a time when the two teams joined together and remember the brotherhood that only sports can bring.

We hope you enjoy our positive, uplifting content. We would love for you to follow us on Twitter and “like” us on Facebook!

Copyright © 2011 The Good in Sports, Inc. All rights reserved.

Krzyzewski was the captain of his senior team in 1968-1969, leading them to the National Invitation Tournament (NIT). His coaching career began at Indiana University in 1974. The following year he became the head coach at Army, a position he would hold for five years while compiling a 73-59 record.

On March 18, 1980, the Duke Blue Devils hired Krzyzewski to be their head coach. Coach K has been there ever since, and his tenure has been nothing short of amazing. He has compiled a record of 830-225, led his team to 27 NCAA Tournaments and has won four NCAA Championships. In 2001, Krzyzewski was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Coach K has also been on the sidelines as a coach for the USA in the Olympics.

Off the court, Coach K has been involved in many charitable activities. He opened the Emily Krzyzewski Center, a center named after his mother, and he has helped the Duke Children’s Hospital and the V Foundation for Cancer Research.

According to their website, the mission of the Emily Krzyzweski Center “is to inspire economically disadvantaged students to dream big, act with character and purpose, strive for academic excellence, and reach their highest potential as future citizen leaders.”

The Good in Sports congratulates Mike Krzyzewski on his 903rd win and is proud to present him with our coveted Gold Star for his work on the court and off.

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Copyright © 2011 The Good in Sports, Inc. All rights reserved.

Nick Shultz's Week 3 Mo

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Each November, men across the country participate in the annual initiative known as Movember. Movember, a charity raising funds and awareness for cancers affecting men, encourages men to grow mustaches (Mo’s) to engage others in conversation about the disease. A 501(c)(3) non-profit, Movember benefits the Prostate Cancer Foundation and LIVESTRONG.

The National Hockey League’s (NHL) Minnesota Wild once again joined with Sun Country Airlines to participate in the initiative. Defenseman Nick Schultz, one of the NHL’s first players to participate in Movember, is leading the team’s fund-raising efforts. Schultz participates to honor the father of one of his closest friends, who developed prostate cancer two years ago. Wild players and staff members are growing mustaches in support of the campaign. Women, affectionately known as “Mo Sistas” also help to support Movember by spreading the word to friends and family and encouraging them to join Schultz’s Minnesota Wild Mo Bros team.

Wild fans are encouraged to join the effort by registering and donating to the Minnesota Wild Mo Bros team. Any fan that joins and raises at least $150 through their personal Movember page will receive a “Buy One Get One Free” ticket voucher to a 2011 – 2012 regular season game. Additionally, for $65, fans can purchase a lower level ticket to Wild home games on Nov. 25, 27 and 28; $10 from each ticket will be donated to Movember. Fans can also donate to Movember during any home game at the Community Relations Booth located in Section 124.

Fans are encouraged to submit photographs of their Mo’s on www.wild.com/Movember; photos will be posted on the Wild Facebook page and two finalists with the best Mo’s will be selected. The winners of the Movember contest will be invited to make the “Let’s Play Hockey” announcement during the Nov. 25 game against the Edmonton Oilers. The owner of the best Mo will travel to Minn. courtesy of Sun Country Airlines and meet Schultz after the game.

Additionally, a Barber Shop quartet will sing at Gate 1, a mustache giveaway will be distributed to all fans in attendance, a free Sun Country Airlines t-shirt will be given away to the first 1,500 men with mustaches, a Mo Cam will replace the Kiss Cam, and fleece scarves will be sold to benefit Movember during the Nov. 25 game.

For their efforts in raising funds and awareness for cancers affecting men, The Good in Sports awards the Minnesota Wild  and Nick Schultz with a Gold Star.

• To join the effort, please visit: www.wild.com/Movember
• To learn more about Movember, please visit: www.movember.com

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Copyright © 2011 The Good in Sports, Inc. All rights reserved.

Major League Baseball announced the 2011 Managers of the Year as voted on by the Baseball Writers of America on Wednesday. Joe Maddon of the Tampa Bay Rays took the American League award, while Kirk Gibson of the Arizona Diamondbacks was awarded in the National League. Both managers led their respective teams to impressive seasons that included a trip to the postseason.

Joe Maddon: Maddon received 26 of the possible 28 first places votes; this is the second time in the past four years Maddon has been honored with this award. The Rays seemed unlikely to take a spot in the postseason in September, but somehow came back from a nine game defecit to earn the Wild Card spot over the Boston Red Sox. Their place in the postseason wasn’t decided upon until the last day of the regular season. Many thought it would be tough for the Rays to compete in 2011 considering they lost Carl Crawford to free agency, and a large portion of their bullpen. The Rays made the playoffs with a $42 million payroll. Maddon defeated Jim Leyland of the Detroit Tigers and Ron Washington of the Texas Rangers to win the award.

Kirk Gibson: Gibson received 28 of the possible 32 first place votes. This is an impressive win for Gibson who just finished in first full season as manager of the Arizona Diamondbacks. Gibson took a 2010 team that finished with a 65-97 and turned them into a team in 2011 that finished 94-68, and won the NL West Division. It was a “worst to first” scenario from one year to the next that rarely happens. Gibson defeated Ron Roenicke of the Milwaukee Brewers and Tony LaRussa of the St. Louis Cardinals to win the award.

The Good in Sports congratulates both Joe Maddon and Kirk Gibson for their much deserved awards and wishes them the best of luck in 2012.

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Copyright © 2011 The Good in Sports, Inc. All rights reserved.

There are about 20 players committed, including Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and Rashard Lewis. Houston Texans’ Andre Johnson and Matt Schaub will also participate, though Lucas would not say if they were going to play. Former NBA players Moses Malone and Robert Horry will coach the teams. “It’s a nice mixture of young players,” Lucas said. “I wanted the young, the old and a little bit of the new, so our fans could see who’s coming and who’s already established.” For more information visit Coach Lucas’ website: http://johnlucasenterprises.com/The_Foundation.html

In the Jacksonville area, there are plenty of high schools and youth programs using football as a way to keep students out of trouble. With crimes rates across the nation continuing to decline, USA Football and the Jags want to give back the youth for a job well done.

Since 2006, USA Football and the NFL have collaborated to give equipment grants to youth programs across the nation. During that five year stretch, the duo have raised an impressive $4 million in grants. Essentially, each selected youth program or high school is given $1000 in a package of equipment and jerseys to choose from.

While USA Football and the respective state’s NFL Franchise have their names associated with the equipment grants, it is actually manufacturers Riddell (equipment) and Rawlings (uniforms) that are providing the programs and high schools with the merchandise.

“The Jaguars are very thankful for the relationship we have with USA Football and Riddell. This partnership allows us to assist area football programs by providing quality equipment and continue to promote player safety at the youth level,” said Jaguars Equipment Manager Drew Hampton.

For those unfamiliar with USA Football, not only are they the main governing body of American football programs across the nation, but they are also the main youth partner with the NFL and its 32 franchises. The league and its players association, to allow over 800 programs across the country the opportunity to qualify for a USA Football grant, have set up the NFL Youth Football Fund.

“Even with multiple fundraisers and strict attention to budgets, many well-run youth and high school football programs need help to properly equip their teams,” USA Football Executive Director Scott Hallenbeck said. “We are proud to be a partner in the Jaguars’ continued commitment to ensuring great football experiences for the kids, families and volunteers who power this sport in the Jacksonville area.”

• For more information on USA Football and their partnership with the NFL, please visit: https://www.nflyff.org/grant_programs/summit

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Copyright © 2011 The Good in Sports, Inc. All rights reserved.

In March of 2011, the Arizona Cardinals awarded Matt with the Ed Block Courage Award. The award, which honors those who exemplify commitments to the principles of sportsmanship and courage, was voted on by his teammates. But Matt’s not just courageous on the field; off the field, he actively engages in numerous activities that give back to the community. Fortunately for us, we had the honor of interviewing Matt regarding the ways he gives back.

TGiS: Matt, thanks for taking the time discuss your off the field work in the community with us. It truly is an honor. When you were growing up, who was your role-model and why?

Matt Ware: When I was growing up, my role model was my dad and he still is. My dad has always been the same guy. He never allowed circumstances to change the way that he treated his family and I always loved and admired my dad for that, even at a young age. Just a caring compassionate person, day in and out.

TGiS: As an adult, when you think of a role model in professional sports, who is the first name that comes to mind?

Matt Ware: When I look at a role model, I look directly at Brian Dawkins. You’re talking about a man of great faith and practices what he preaches everyday. I feel blessed to have played with him and to have learned from him, not only as a player, but more importantly as a man.

TGiS: I know you’re very active off the gridiron. Off the field, what are you most passionate about?

Matt Ware: I’m most passionate about helping people and more importantly, our youth in any way possible. I help out in as many different facets as possible, whether it’s a reading program, speaking engagements or helping raise money or awareness for JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation). Those are my passions.

• For more information on Matt, visit his website at http://www.mattware22.com/.
• Special thanks to Matt and his team at Arkay for setting up this interview.

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Unfortunately, it’s been one of those weeks in sports. It’s been a week where the sports headlines have been front page fodder and for none of the right reasons. It’s been a week where man’s failures have left man’s accomplishments like a Ferrari Enzo against a minivan on a flat stretch of empty road. No matter where you turn, whether it’s the big dogs on ESPN, or the everyday Joe with a sports blog, you just can’t shake it. It’s disturbing, depressing and downright bad for the psyche.

But, don’t let it get to you. Don’t let it influence your perception. It sounds trite, but good people do exist. For every negative story in the sports world, we can share with you five stories that will ground you, warm your heart and have you believing that all that once was good, can be good again. From teens giving up medal dreams to help capsized foes, to the Orlando Magic hosting fitness clinics and donating athletic wear and school supplies to the students who attended. From NASCAR’s Ray Evernham pledging 1 million dollars to the Ronald McDonald House, to the Calgary Flames and their charitable arm touching the lives of thousands. From teams visiting kids in the hospital ( Patriots and Royals), to USF’s baseball coach donating his kidney. The stories go on and on.

No matter what negative things you see on TV, read in the paper, or run across while surfing the web, just know that positive things are happening much more often. After all, John Wooden once said, “Sports don’t build character. They reveal it.”

You just have to look.

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Copyright © 2011 The Good in Sports, Inc. All rights reserved.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft said in a press release announcing this event that we “owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to all the veterans and active duty soldiers who volunteer their lives to protect us and keep our country safe.”

The events from Sunday’s game were the beginning of a week-long focus on veteran and military volunteering.  Throughout the 2011 season, the Patriots have followed a “Celebrate Volunteerism” campaign, and it was only appropriate that during the week of Veteran’s Day that the Patriots would take this week to focus on the military and veterans.  This week the Patriots will focus their efforts and work with the Raytheon Organization, which focuses their attention to support community outreach for veterans and members of the armed forces, and Carepacks, which is a non-profit organization committed to sending care packages to members of the military overseas.

For all of their efforts this season to focus on volunteerism, and especially this week’s focus on the military and armed forces, The Good In Sports would like to award the New England Patriots franchise with a Gold Star and congratulate them for all of their success both on and off the field during this season.  The franchise has gone above and beyond this season to promote their off-field exploits, and it is appropriate that during the week of Veteran’s Day that the Patriots would honor our own Patriots for their work protecting our country.

Dodgers General Manager, Ned Colletti, said, “This is a very special day not just for Sue, but for the Dodgers and Major League Baseball. The Dodgers have always been an organization of firsts and this promotion for Sue continues in that tradition.”

Falsone is also an integral part of an organization called “Athletes’ Performance” (AP) in Phoenix, Ariz. She holds the role of Vice President of Performance Physical Therapy and Team Sports. There is a new partnership between the Dodgers and AP, which Falsone will head up.

Falsone earned her Master’s degree in Human Movement Science concentrating on Sports Medicine at the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill. Since then, she has spent 10 years with AP and is also a Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Sports Physical Therapy (SCS), a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS).

Falsone had this to say following the announcement of her new position, “It is a true honor to be given this opportunity with such a progressive and historic organization. My work with the Dodgers over the past few years as well as my time with AP will serve me well in taking this next step.  I look forward to helping develop innovative and creative programs to reduce injuries and keep our players on the field so that they can achieve their potential.”

The Good In Sports congratulates Sue Falsone for her recent historic promotion that sets a precedent and wish her the best of luck with the Dodgers.

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Copyright © 2011 The Good in Sports, Inc. All rights reserved.

Tim Tebow with 16-year-old Adam Hubbs

DENVER, Colo. — Being in the media spotlight comes hand-in-hand with being a professional athlete – something that Denver Broncos quarterback, Tim Tebow, has become accustomed to since being drafted by the Broncos in the 2010 NFL Draft. Tebow, who entered the game against the Miami Dolphins two weeks ago in the final minutes trying to overcome a 15-0 deficit, rallied his team to an improbable 18-15 win in overtime, earning him a spot in the starting lineup against the Detroit Lions last week. Hoping to lead his team to their first consecutive and third overall win of the season, Tebow struggled and the Broncos suffered a 45-10 loss in Denver. This forgettable loss, along with Tebow’s unique in-game celebration, have brought him an enormous amount of scrutiny in the media.

Now known to many as “Tebowing,” Tebow will celebrate during a game by taking a knee, putting his head down, and praying. Similar to “planking” or “owling,” the “Tebowing” craze has inspired millions around the world to take a knee, snap a photo, and upload it to the web. Though many consider the new craze to be a blatant mockery of Tebow, he addressed the new fad on his Twitter saying,

“#Tebowing – to get down on a knee and start praying, even if everyone else around you is doing something completely different. Love it!”

An avid and outspoken Christian, Tebow has always strived to give back to his community and help those in need. As an undergraduate at The University of Florida (UF), Tebow, along with other students on campus, began “First and 15.” First and 15 was Tebow’s brainchild after NCAA regulations for student athletes prohibited him from launching his own foundation. First and 15 was run under the umbrella of the UF Office of Student Government, and allowed Tebow to rally hundreds of students and UF boosters to raise funds for various charities. Immediately following his four years as an athlete at UF, Tebow launched the Tim Tebow Foundation in January of 2010. According to the website, “The Foundation utilizes the public platform that God has blessed Tim Tebow with to inspire and make a difference in peoples lives throughout the world.”

While The Foundation supports causes other than these, the main four initiatives supported are:

The W15H Program – a partnership with Jacksonville, Fla., based Dreams Come True, was created to grant wishes for children who have life-threatening illnesses whose wish is to meet Tebow; CURE International – an organization helping children in developing countries who suffer from treatable physical
 disabilities; Timmy’s Playrooms – UF and First and 15′s program which creates playrooms in hospitals across the country that will, “serve as a place of Faith, Hope and Love to these very strong and
 courageous children,” according to the website, and finally, The Foundation supports Uncle Dick’s Orphanage in the Philippines.

Through the W15H Program, Tebow helped make 16-year-old Adam Hubbs’ dream come true. Hubbs, an avid sports fan who is known for his speed on his pee wee football team, dreamt of one day stepping out on a professional football field in front of thousands of fans. However, Hubbs was diagnosed with a rare life-threatening blood disorder in 2008, which shattered any hope that he would one day play in the NFL. Since Hubbs’ diagnosis, he has faced many struggles, including a coma that lasted five weeks and a stroke that paralyzed the left side of his body.

Hubbs had always looked to Tebow as his hero and inspiration, and in June of 2011, he was able to meet Tebow at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Fla. The pair spent the afternoon playing catch, arcade games and exploring the complex. Tebow also invited Hubbs to be his guest this past Sunday at the Broncos home game.

Hubbs would finally get to take the field as he had always dreamed – this time alongside his hero.

Through the W15H Program, not only did Hubbs get to be on the field with Tebow during warm-ups, but he and his family also enjoyed the game from fantastic seats donated by the Broncos. Their arrival in Denver on Friday began with dinner and arcade games courtesy of Dave & Busters; dinner on Saturday was provided by Denver’s Hard Rock Cafe. Hubbs also enjoyed gifts from the W15H Program that included W15H travel luggage, a copy of Through My Eyes – Tebow’s book, a duffel bag provided by Nike, a gift card from Jockey and much more.

“It was so great to spend time with Adam again,” said Tebow. “I am amazed by his strength, determination and positive attitude.”

So while media continues to scrutinize Tebow as he grows into his role as Denver’s quarterback, we at The Good in Sports applaud him for making a difference not only in the life of Adam Hubbs, but also in the lives of the thousands he will reach through the Tim Tebow Foundation. We are proud to award Tim Tebow with a Gold Star and look forward to his successful career.

• To learn more about the Tim Tebow Foundation, please visit: http://www.timtebowfoundation.org/
• To view a video of Adam and Tim’s day together, please visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HZkpPsn2IKc

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Copyright © 2011 The Good in Sports, Inc. All rights reserved.

SAN FRANCISCO — Any sports fan knows that to win a championship, you have to give it everything you’ve got. University of San Francisco (USF) baseball coach of 13 years, Nino Giarratano, helped coach his team to do exactly that, leading them to just their second ever NCAA tournament berth in the school’s history. What Giarratano’s players and family didn’t know, was at the end of the season, he would give more than just his knowledge and expertise on the field.

Giarratano’s 80-year-old father, Mickey, had gallbladder surgery at the end of last fall. What was supposed to be a short recovery ended up being a 45 day stay in the hospital. “My doctor said, ‘…your kidneys have shut down, and [we] have no answer why they shut down,’” Mickey says. He was then told he would need three four-hour dialysis treatments a week for the rest of his life. After asking what his options were besides dialysis, the doctor informed Mickey he could either attempt to get a transplant, or die. At 80-years-old, Mickey would not be on the top of any transplant lists. This was when Nino began to consider donating his kidney to his father.

Certain of his decision, Nino called his mother and told her that he wanted to give his dad a kidney. Nino had not consulted with his wife, or anyone for that matter, and asked that his mother keep it a secret until he was ready to tell everyone. Then, during a visit to Colorado that Christmas, Nino told his father of his decision saying, “All these years you and mom have given me everything – the least I could do is give you a kidney.” So, Mickey accepted.

Medical tests confirmed that Nino was a good match as a donor, but one obstacle still laid before the Giarratano’s: The 2011 USF baseball season was just getting underway and the surgery would have to wait until the end of the season. After a long season that included a West Coast Conference (WCC) Championship Title, a trip to the playoffs, and a third WCC Coach of the Year honor for Nino, the season finally ended on June 15. A gift eight months in planning, Nino would now be able to travel to Denver and give his father a kidney.

The surgery, which took place on July 11, lasted about five and a half hours. After the surgery, Nino was visibly sick, so much so, that his mother could only bear to be in his room for a short time. A nurse asked if there was anywhere he would like to go and Nino jokingly responded, “If you could get me to Yankee Stadium from this bed right here, I’d sure be happy.” Nino then asked to see his father. After working for about two hours to gain enough strength to walk, he was able to visit his father, who was doing well in recovery.

It has been over three and half months since the surgery, and both Nino and Mickey are in great health. Nino is back to work and was recently given a six-year contract extension by the USF Dons. Mickey is now able to enjoy his life and play golf again.

In a courageous and selfless act, Nino gave one of his kidneys to prolong his father’s life. “I don’t feel any different. I don’t feel superhuman like sometimes people look at me. I just feel the same. I think it was something I was faced with and hopefully somewhere down the road if this makes the world a better place, then good for it,” Nino said. “It’s out of character for me to want to be in the spotlight like this, but I want to become an advocate and speak for organ donors. The goal is to use my story to help find the world more good organ donors and more people willing to give life.”

Mickey raves, “A lot of people have come up to me over the years and said, ‘Nino is a special coach.’ You know what I tell them? I tell them, ‘Nino is a special son.’”

A special son and a special man, indeed. We are honored to present Coach Giarratano with a Gold Star for his incredible gift of himself both on, and off the field.

• A special thanks to our friends at Top Prospect Alert for the tip on this story!

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Copyright © 2011 The Good in Sports, Inc. All rights reserved.

Heroes Hockey Challenge is a series of national hockey charitable events which raise funds to benefit wounded Canadian soldiers and their families, with particular emphasis on amputees.

Franklin, a well-known Canadian solider, lost both of his legs in his second tour of duty in Afghanistan when a suicide bomber attacked his convoy.

In each city, Heroes Hockey Challenge will hold a charity Gala Dinner with the formality and ceremony of traditional military dinners. Participants will dine with serving members of the Canadian Forces (Afghanistan veterans, where possible) and NHL stars at each table. The Gala Dinner event will also include celebrity appearances, VIPs from the Canadian Forces (serving and retired), celebrity MC and guest speakers, special entertainment, military bands, and pipes and drums. Fundraising activities will include live and silent auctions.

Following the Gala Dinner, in each city, Heroes Hockey Challenge will schedule a hockey game between the NHL Alumni and soldiers from the Canadian Forces. All games will be in the main venues used by the NHL. NHL alumni will be in the traditional old style jerseys and the military teams will be in specially designed “desert cam” based jerseys.

The Challenge will be featured in six cities: Calgary, Vancouver, Montreal, Halifax, Quebec City, and Toronto. The cities were chosen given their size and proximity to major military bases or strong connections to the Canadian Forces and the NHL.

• A complete list of dates is available at http://en.heroeshockeychallenge.com/event

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LaRussa leaves the game as a champion, innovator and the third winningest manager in MLB history. LaRussa’s managerial career began in 1979 when he was hired to manage the Chicago White Sox, a position he would hold until 1986.  In Chicago, LaRussa’s biggest accomplishment was winning the American League West Division in 1983.  He was let go after a 26-38 start in the 1986 season; this move is one White Sox Owner, Jerry Reinsdorf, has regretted for a long time.  LaRussa and Reinsdorf are still good friends to this day.  He posted a 522-510 record while on the south side.

Three weeks after being let go in Chicago, the Oakland Athletics hired LaRussa to take over as their skipper.  It was here LaRussa took his managerial career to a whole new level.  LaRussa took the A’s to three consecutive World Series in 1988-1990, winning it all in 1989 against the San Francisco Giants.  LaRussa is probably best known in Oakland for what he did with his bullpen, by converting starter Dennis Eckersley to the closer.  At the time, this was fairly new to MLB, and even Eckersley was not thrilled at first. LaRussa also started to really look at lefty-lefty and righty-righty match-ups.  Once LaRussa took his starter out, there was no telling how many relievers might appear in a game.  Many MLB managers took note and moves like these are common-place in the game today.  Eckersley later followed LaRussa to St. Louis and is number three on the all-time saves list with 390.  Following the sale of the A’s in 1995, LaRussa left the organization and headed for St. Louis.  LaRussa compiled a 798-673 record in Oakland.

LaRussa’s arrival in 1996 was welcomed by Cardinals fans everywhere. LaRussa would replace Joe Torre. During his 16 years as manager, LaRussa won seven division titles, took the Cardinals to three World Series and won two championships.  He managed the likes of Mark McGwire (also played for LaRussa in Oakland), Dennis Eckersley, Ozzie Smith and most recently, Albert Pujols.  His players always respected him and would always give 110%.  LaRussa also had the privilege of having the same pitching coach in St. Louis as he did in Oakland, Dave Duncan.  Duncan is known for how he deals with pitchers to get the most out of them.  I can’t imagine a LaRussa managed team without Duncan standing next to him in the bullpen.  Together, the two got more out their pitchers than most.  Following the recent World Series victory against the Texas Rangers, LaRussa announced he was retiring.  A shock to everyone in the baseball world.  Before the World Series ended, I heard a report from a Chicago radio station that he was reportedly coming back for a 17th year – that was a week ago.  He compiled a record of 1,408-1,182 at the helm in St. Louis.

Mr. LaRussa is known as a legend on the field but his off the field work should not be overlooked.  Tony and wife, Elaine, founded Tony LaRussa’s Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) in Walnut Creek, Calif. years ago.  The foundation runs programs allowing cats and dogs to visit abused children, hospital patients and seniors.  It also works to save abandoned and injured animals.  The goal is to save helpless animals and make others smile who are going through tough times.

Tony LaRussa will be elected to the the Hall-of-Fame in five years.  His statistics as manager speak for themselves:

• LaRussa won 2,728 games in his career and is number three on the all-time list (John McGraw won 2,763 games and Connie Mack won 3,731 games).
• He won three AL Pennants and three NL Pennants.
• Three World Series titles, one in Oakland and two in St. Louis.
• LaRussa in the winningest manager in St. Louis Cardinals history with 1,408 wins.
• He earned three AL Manager of the Year Awards (1983, 1988 and 1992) and one NL Manager of the Year Award (2002).

We likely will not see a manager that had as much impact as LaRussa did in the game for a very long-time.  He changed the way managers use their bullpens, he frequently batted the pitcher in the eight hole, and he never cared how anyone viewed him.  Like him or not, he will go down as one of the best ever and he revolutionized baseball.

There is one question that remains: Does Tony LaRussa still have one game to manage?  His team won the National League Pennant, earning him the right to coach the National League in the 2012 All-Star Game in Kansas City.  Only time will tell.

The Good In Sports salutes Tony LaRussa for his accomplishments on and off the field and is proud to present him with a Gold Star in Baseball.  Thank you for the memories, Tony.

• If you would like more information about Tony LaRussa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, please visit:  http://www.arf.net

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The Orlando Magic have decided to make good use of that time.

In one of many volunteer and charity efforts to take place for the team this fall, the Magic’s general manager and coaching staff participated in the President’s Challenge Program at Nap Ford Community School, where they hosted physical fitness clinics and donated athletic wear and school supplies to the students who attended.

Magic GM Otis Smith said that despite his league enduring a labor stoppage, it’s important that teams don’t forget to give back to their community.

“We’re fortunate to be working for an ownership group that gets it and truly cares about the community,” Smith said of the Magic’s owner, Rich DeVos. “We’d prefer to be playing basketball right now, but because we’re not this gives us time to spend time with some of the people who need to see us the most. So getting out in the community and spending time with the kids like this is a plus-plus-plus for us.”

This isn’t the only volunteer effort the Magic are undertaking this week. Last week, the coaching staff did cleanup work at an Orlando recreation center.

“We were just outside of this building on Friday doing a cleanup thing. This is a lot more fun because I’m not a yard work guy,” head coach Stan Van Gundy said. “This is more fun, seeing the kids and playing with them.”

“The Magic have always been very committed to the community and I’m proud to be in an organization like that. They’re not somebody who just does it because it feels it has to. There’s a genuine feeling here that the Magic want to help the central Florida community any way possible.”

And that’s not all the Magic will continue to do. Van Gundy and the rest of his coaching staff, which includes Hall-of-Famer Patrick Ewing, will teach a basketball fundamentals clinic for 40 kids aged 8-14.

“It’s just so good to see their smiles,” Smith said of the volunteer work. “A lot of these kids just need somebody to come out and show them some attention and we’ve done that. It’s just good for everybody to spend some time with these kids who are growing up in our neighborhoods and try to make a difference in their lives.”

We at The Good in Sports thank the Magic for their great work in their community and present them with a Gold Star!

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In addition to the player’s individual donations and partnerships, the Flames Foundation for Life matches each player’s donations up to $25,000. The Calgary Flames Hockey Club and their charitable arm the Flames Foundation for Life continues to touch the lives of thousands of people through its commitment to education, medical research, health, amateur sports and recreation.

Many of the Flames’ players are involved in various ways:

Jay Bouwmeester is working with H.E.R.O.S (Hockey Education Reaching Out Society) program for a second season. Bouwmeester donates tickets to program participants and visits events with program youth.

Mark Giordano plays defense on the ice but is an avid spokesman for Habitat for Humanity. Habitat for Humanity builds affordable for houses for families in need. Giordano plays a heavy role in Habitat. He and his wife Lauren chair the Habitat for Humanity “5 for 5″ initiative. This initiative raises funds for the construction of five homes in five different countries. Giordano donated $25,000 to this program last year.

Giordano, Lee Stempniak and David Moss visit schools to reinforce the positive effects of literacy this season. Together they are the faces of the Flames’ and Calgary Educational Partnership Foundation’s “Reading…Give it a Shot!” Program. The Flames’ players have been a part of this program for 13 seasons. They visit grade 4, 5 and 6 students to encourage reading. For every 100 minutes read, students are rewarded with a bookmark promoting Flames players.

Cory Sarich plays a large role in raising money for the Flames Foundation for Life and Children’s Link Society. Sarich is the Honorary Chair of the Country Hills Classic that is presented by the Mavericks Chuckwagon Society. This year’s event raised over $225,000 for children’s charities.

Brendan Morrison hosted the second annual Tofino Saltwater Classic Fishing Derby at the end of July 2011. This event raised over $25,000 to benefit Tofino, BC community initiatives. This money went right back into the community, Wickaninnish Elementary School and the Tofino Salmon Enhancement Society to name a few. The funds were also directed to the Tofino Hospital Foundation and the District of Tofino’s Parks and Recreation Department.

Mikael Baklund has partnered with the Kids Cancer Care Foundation and Sunshine Foundation of Alberta. His efforts will last all season long. He will donate $100 per goal during the regular season to the Sunshine Foundation of Canada. For every assist during the regular season he is donating $100 to the Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta. In addition Backlund has donated tickets to both organizations for program youth to attend a Flames game and they get the opportunity to meet him afterwards.

Jarome Iginla has been a supporter of KidSport Calgary and Canada. KidSport gives children the opportunity to experience the positive benefits of organized sports and provides support to children in order to remove financial barriers that prevent them from playing organized sport.  For every goal Iginla scores during the regular season he is donating $2,000 towards the cause. To date the Flames captain has raised over $550,000 for the organization.

Olli Jokinen initiated his own program names Olli’s All-Stars for grades 7 through 12 students. His program rewards positive behavior in a school setting. Renee Bourque developed a similar program Bourque’s Buddies last season through the Piitoayis Family School. The school is culturally based from an Aboriginal perspective. Both programs ask students to send a letter about an act of kindness or heroism at school. Both Jokinen and Bourque read letters and select students to attend a Flames game and they get the opportunity to meet the respective players.  In September, Bourque, with the NHLPA, distributed 50 full sets of equipment to youth in Lac La Biche in Northern Alberta.

Tom Kostopoulos is a spokesman for the Calgary Chapter of the Canadian Celiac Association. Kostopoulos donates $100 per goal during the regular season and tickets to youth involved in the program. After these games, he meets the ticket recipients in the locker room.

David Moss will donate $100 per goal to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Matt Stajan is a spokesperson for the Alberta Children’s Hospital where he donated a set of seasons ticket  to children who were receiving care at the hospital. Stajan will continue to participate in the Hospital’s fundraising activities and events.

Curtis Glencross has been committed to helping with the Special Olympics Calgary. He has made appearances at their athlete programs. He has also partnered with the Gord Bamford Foundation. The Foundation offers under privileged youth and single parent families in Canada money to support education, health care and music.

Miikka Kiprusoff will donate $10 to the Children’s Cottage Society, a program that prevents harm and neglect to all children and strengthens families through crisis, respite and support services, for every save during the regular season. The Flames goal tender has also donated over $55,000 to the Rainbow Society of Alberta in the last three seasons.

Alex Tanguay has partnered for a second season with the Canadian Cancer Society. He has directed his monies towards stomach cancer research. Tanguay donates $200 per assist during the regular season or a minimum donation of $10,000 to the national cancer organization’s Alberta/NWT division. Last season Tanguay donated $10,000 towards his cause.

The Flames score goals on and off the ice with their partnerships and dedication to their charities.  The Flames continue to reach out even further within the community by being actively involved in team fundraisers and community programs. Some examples are the Pond Hockey by Enmax Energy, Flames Ambassador Celebrity Chair Poker Tournament, Alberta Children Hospital wheelchair hockey and various appearances through the Flames Foundation for Life and Community Relations programming. Not only does the team provide a winning attitude on the ice they promote the type of hard work and dedication off the ice to develop a winning attitude for all programs in need. The community partnerships that the players work hard to build provide the foundation of a healthy, winning roster.

For their overwhelming support and community involvement, we proudly award the Calgary Flames with a Gold Star!

• To learn more about the Calgary Flames Charitable Foundation, please visit: http://flames.nhl.com/club/microhome.htm?location=/flames_foundation

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Based out of Woonsocket, R.I., CVS has been giving back to the community for nearly a decade. As part of the new partnership with the Patriots, CVS will be donating money to the NEPCF every time the Patriots kick a successful field goal. Furthermore, CVS and the Patriots will be collaborating to allow youth from the Easter Seals Massachusetts the opportunity to test their field goal kicking skills this weekend at their training facility. This is the third year of their partnership with the Easter Seals Massachusetts. As a result of the partnership and aforementioned field goal kicking camp, more then 100 youth in the area have had the opportunity to test their skills.

“Each year, we are excited to partner with the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation and support organizations that are helping kids realize their full potential,” said Eileen Howard Boone, Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications & Community Relations for CVS Caremark. “The ‘Kicks for Community’ campaign and annual football skills camp reflect our shared commitment to create inclusive opportunities for children of all abilities across New England.”

The partnership between R.I.’s best pharmacy, CVS, and one of the NFL’s top franchises, the New England Patriots, is a branch of the CVS Caremark All Kids Can campaign, which gives children of different levels and backgrounds the opportunity to test out their skills.

“The continued support we’ve received from CVS/pharmacy has helped enable us to make a positive impact on the lives of youth throughout New England,” said Andre Tippett, Executive Director of Community Affairs for the New England Patriots. “Sports are a great way for children to have fun and experience what it’s like to be on a team and we’re thrilled to work with CVS/pharmacy to give children of all abilities the unique opportunity to play football at Patriot Place.”

On Sept. 18th, the New England Patriots and owners the Kraft family, launched the “Celebrate Volunteerism” campaign, to honor the late Myra Kraft. Myra, wife of Robert Kraft, was a staple with the New England Patriots and the local community. Unfortunately during the lockout, she passed away, but to honor her, the Patriots are giving back more then ever before to the community.

We at The Good in Sports applaud the New England Patriots for their partnership with CVS and the Easter Seals Massachusetts and award them with a well-deserved Gold Star!

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“It is remarkable to have this many influential, powerful and strong women in one room – there is really no other event that compares to the Women’s Sports Foundation’s Annual Salute,” Women’s Sports Foundation (WSF) founder Billie Jean King said at Wednesday’s gala. Honorees and special presenters included sports broadcaster Bonnie Bernstein, the emcee for the evening, Maya Moore, Michelle Kwan, Joe Torre, WSF president, Laila Ali and others.

Five distinct awards were presented at the event.

The Visa Women’s ski jumping team was awarded the Wilma Rudolph Courage Award. Women’s ski jumping was added by the International Olympic Committee this past April and will be part of the competition at the 2014 Winter Games in Russia. The award is given to a female athlete – or in this case athletes – who demonstrate the ability to overcome adversity, make significant contributions to the sports and serve as an inspiration and role model for others. The award’s first recipient was Jackie Joyner-Kersee in 1996.

Tseng was named the WSF sportswoman of the year for an individual sport. Tseng, currently the top-ranked female golfer in the world, became the youngest player ever, male or female, to win five LPGA titles, at the age of 22.

Wambach won the team sport sportswoman of the year award. It joins a multitude of honors the Western New York native brought home over the past 12 months, winning US Soccer Female Athlete of the Year (for the fourth time) and the Women’s Professional Soccer Best XI last October.

Winter Vinecki, a triathlete, won the 2011 ANNIKA Inspiration award, a collaboration effort by WSF and golf legend Annika Sorenstam, who presented the award to the 12-year-old. Vineck, who has participated in triathlons since the age of five, founded Team Winter, a non-profit organization dedicated to funding prostrate cancer research, in honor of her late father, who died from a rare, aggressive form of the cancer. She has raised more than $300,000 for Team Winter.

Visa was awarded the Billie Jean King Contribution award, honoring the company for its sponsorship of women’s sports at all levels.

Along with awards, the WSF also unveiled work it is doing to highlight and celebrate the upcoming 40th anniversary of Title IX, including imploring the female athletes in attendance to participate in the ”Get Your Game On, Girls!” program, which keeps the promise of Title XI alive.

A commemorative bracelet was also announced. Partnering with Maui Divers, the internationally recognized designer, the WSF created a limited-edition, handcrafted, custom piece whose proceeds will help provide programs that ensure girls have the opportunities in sports and careers that they aspire to attain.  The bracelet is a 7mm sterling silver cuff featuring the recessed Roman numeral “IX.” The inside of the bracelet is engraved with “Women’s Sports Foundation.” Maui Divers Jewelry will donate $40 of each sale to WSF’s mission in support of our grant and outreach programs.

The WSF, founded in 1974, is the leader in promoting sports, health and education for girls and women.  With King as its founder and ongoing visionary, the WSF continues to have a profound impact on female athletics, from its vigorous advocacy of Title IX legislation to providing grants and scholarships, grassroots programs for underserved girls, and groundbreaking research.  An agent for change, the foundation has relationships with more than 1,000 of the world’s elite female athletes and is recognized globally for its leadership, vision, strength, expertise and influence.

• For more information, please visit: www.WomensSportsFoundation.org

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