36 Sports in 36 Months

Women's Basketball - Jan. 17

2008-05-05T20:03:00.003-04:00

Men's Volleyball - Jan. 11th

2008-05-05T19:58:00.003-04:00

Men's BBall - November 28th

2008-05-05T19:52:00.003-04:00

Field Hockey

2007-11-28T17:34:00.000-05:00

It was a beautiful day to take in a field hockey game behind the WHAC. (Obviously we were a little late on posting this blog... We watched the October 14th game.) Unfortunately the rank dumpster you had to walk by to get there was quite a drawback. Maybe if the contents of the dumpster were disposed of more frequently the crowds at the field hockey games would be larger. OSU, you may want to take note of that if you are trying to increase the fan base.

The Lady Bucks played a tough game against the Iowa Hawkeyes but succumbed in the end in a 2-1 loss. The end was rowdy and rough and sticks were flying.

We must admit we were a little confused by what exactly the rules were but held great respect for the beating that a field hockey player's body must endure. Hopefully they have a full time chiropracter on retainer to account for the fact that they are basically running bent at the waist for the entire game. Good work ladies!

Pong joins OSU 36 in 36 H.M.'s

2007-11-25T17:49:00.000-05:00

We are thrilled to announce another honorary member on our sports journey. A longtime friend of M.'s joined A. and M. for women's ice hockey. He also joined us for a night out on the town to see B-rent's band after the game! Thanks P. for adding yourself to the short list of honorary members. Maybe we will see you again at another event. (Unfortunately a picture was not taken so a reinactment photo will be posted soon.)

Men's Swimming and Diving

2007-11-25T17:27:00.000-05:00

The 15th ranked men's Swimming and Diving team challenged Cleveland State on Tuesday November 20th in the McCorkle Aquatics Pavilion. They won in a 147-82 decision. Six other Big Ten teams are representing the league nationally. The swimming and diving program at Ohio State is well known nationally thanks to the leadership of coach Bill Wadley who has been heading the Buckeye paddlers for the past 18 years! He has coached 13 Olympians and has lead his team to qualifying for the NCAA Championships for 16 of those 18 years. His cohort Vince Panzano has produced two Olympic medalists and one World Champion. It sounds like the Buckeyes are in good hands.

Believe it or not we were again interviewed by waxx.tv who happened to be onsite for the swim meet that we attended. This time M. took the reigns and did the talking. Our media hopes are slowly taking place! I just know we will be on "Outside the Lines" by the end of our journey.

Women's Ice Hockey

2007-11-25T16:47:00.000-05:00

The Lady Bucks took the ice agianst the Providence Friars on Fri., Nov. 16th. The crowd was live and the Friars were well represented in spite of the distance from home. We were and excited to find the event action-packed. The game was won in a 2-1 desicion with the lady bucks coming out on top. Incidentally they had a rematch the next day with the Friars and won 4-1.

Apparently there are some very loyal fans of the Lady Buckeyes women's hockey players. There was a group of guys who attend every hockey game and dress up in matching outfits to cheer on their favorite skaters. This game they were lumberjacks (see picture) They were a rowdy crew that kept the crowd entertained with their enthusiasm and witty cheers. Cheers to you loyal fans... we would never question your "fanhood."

In our quest to promote sports enthusiasm we were thrilled to have the opportunity to be interviewed by waxx.tv A. did the honors while I modelled our lovely shirts. If we were savvy enough we would be able to link to the history files so you could see our debut. Instead you'll just have to believe us.

Lazy Bloggers, Active Fans

2007-11-25T16:29:00.000-05:00

Hello blog readers,

Sorry about the lax in postings. This in no way reflects a lack in dedication to our quest. A. and I have been busy little Buckeyes the past few weeks and after Wednesday November 28th we will be officially caught up to our goal of attending one OSU event per month. The count right now is eight months, eight events. REad on to see what we have been up tin the past month and a half.

Honorary Member

2007-10-27T22:20:00.000-04:00

We are excited to induct a new member into our exclusive club. Michelle from W. C. in the G. C. joined us after work to view the volleyball game. At an appointment I was chatting with her about the quest and she was interested in it and mentioned she would like to come to a couple events. She actually did! Thanks Michelle for validating us! Hopefully we'll see you at few more events as time goes on.

Better Late than Never

2007-10-27T21:52:00.000-04:00

Yes readers, if there are any of you left, we have been slacking on the blogging department of our sports journey. That does not mean we have not been vigilent in the attendance department of the journey.

On September 21st the 36 in 36 enthusiasts attended the Ohio State women's volleyball game against the Northwestern wildcats. The game was a nailbiter and went to the full five games. Unfortuntely the Buckeyes fell to the Wildcats in the fifth set.

Even before being officially sworn in as president the esteemed Gordan Gee made an appearance in the student section to support the lady ballers. (I think I saw him breakin' out the Soulja Boy dance)

Hopes and Dreams

2007-09-24T17:18:00.000-04:00

You might ask what's next after getting a picture with Jim Tressel. My answer...E. Gordon Gee, the president of THE Ohio State University. (Although we're supposed to call him Gordon Gee...it's not as fun). That's my hope and dream for the next 30 months for our 36 in 36 challenge. From what I know of the man (which is not much - just what I saw of him for 15 minutes at the volleyball game and then the football game on Saturday) he'd appreciate our quest to support all student athletes. Perhaps he'd even become an honorary member...but I get ahead of myself. I think for right now I'll stick with the goal of us getting a picture with him. B-rent...get ready to hold some purses.

October Schedule

2007-09-24T17:04:00.000-04:00

Don't be shy OSU fans...come out and join us for our newly planned October events. We'd be honored to add you to our list of honorary members. Currently our calendars are set for Field Hockey on Sunday, October 14th at 1pm. The Buckeyes take on the Iowa Hawkeyes at the North Field Turf located on Olentangy River Road. Then get ready for, what's bound to be, an action-packed day as we attempt to follow OSU's cross-country team at the Big Ten Tournament on Sunday, October 28th. Currently start time is unknown, but we'll get back to you on that. Bring your running shoes just in case.

36 in 36 stats

2007-09-15T11:28:00.000-04:00

Active months: 6

Games attended: 4

T-shirst created: 2

Games won: 4

Honorary members: 7

Posts: 32

Head Football coaches met: 1

Appearances on TV: 1

Adoring fans: I'm sure it's too many to count

calls from ESPN for a feature story: 0

TBDBITL

2007-09-15T10:47:00.000-04:00

Although it is not technically a varsity sport at OSU we must send props out to the OSU Marching Band! Although the band is steeped in tradition, it has been at the forefront of many innovations in marching band circles such as: "floating and animated formations, measured step marching, script writing, and the fast cadence with a high knee lift. Brass instruments especially designed for marching bands were also first used at Ohio State (http://tbdbitl.osu.edu/)." Some traditions have been created intentionally such as the acclaimed Script Ohio. The single-file march led by the drum major takes three and a half minutes to complete. It was first introduced and performed twice in the 1936 season. It has been a staple of the band since. Fans (and non-fans if there are any) recognize the formation. Traditions such as the pre-game skull session, Hang on Sloopy, and the Ramp Entrance are met with a deafening roar by Buckeye fans. I cannot imagine any other marching band is rewarded by adoring fans such as our 192 member high-steppers.

An example of an unintentional tradition was begun by Glen R. Johnson who dotted the "i" from 1937-1940 when he was a member. In a game in 1938, he was led by the drum major three measures early to his position at the top of the "i". To eat op the time and get back in formation he went with his instinct and did a big kick, a turn, and a deep bow to fans. It was an instant success and well received by the crowd. It has been performed that way ever since.

Thanks band members past and present for those hot summer days holding brass instruments at perfect 90 degree angles to the radiating blacktop and turf surfaces you perfect your sharp turns, steps, and formations. You are and always will be appreciated by the trained and untrained eyes and ears of Buckeye Country.

It's Confirmed

2007-09-13T19:28:00.000-04:00

T and I watched the premier of the Big 10 Network. M and I made it on during half time footage! Wohoo! 36 in 36 got some national media :).

Football - September 1

2007-09-05T21:29:00.000-04:00

The heat was manageable on Sept 1st for the much anticipated football game. The sun was out, a slight breeze blew periodically, and we were sitting in the Shoe! What more could a couple of girls wish for... ok maybe a few things, but that worked pretty well for us. Here you see A. with husband, splendidly righteous T. Thanks T. for your support in our endeavor!

A. and I would like to announce that we have inducted three new members to our quest. Top left you will see my F-I-L Iron Mike flanked by hubby, the fabulously reverent, B-rent and myself. We strongly suggested at least one piece of OSU attire for Iron Mike hence the hat. Below you will see A. and R. who made a two hour? trip just to be included in our quest. They have been following our sports journey from it's inception and have been chomping at the bit to become honorary members. Due to their hard work and diligence their efforts have paid of and they are now official 36 in 36 honorary members!

On to the football game. The Bucks beat the Youngstown State Penguins with a 38-6 victory! The Alumni band performed in the pre-game and halftime shows. What an amazing sight to see 4 script Ohio's being performed simultaneously. I know it seems a lot of time is being given to the marching band but it is undeniable that they are part of the OSU football experience.

OSU Men's Soccer - August 31

2007-09-05T21:24:00.000-04:00

It was a beautiful day for a soccer game on Friday, August 31st. The OSU men's team took on 13th ranked W. Va, and beat them 1-0. Unfortunately neither one of us got to see the only goal of the game. M was rushing from previous engagements and A was just being pokey. We made up for this disappointment, however, by making a TV appearance on the premier of the Big 10 network. (The camera man was flirting with M.)

We are currently 3 for 3 in our 36 in 36 challenge. Pretty soon all the teams will be clamoring for us to attend their games as a good luck charm. Let's see how long we can keep the streak going.

Fall Events Planned

2007-08-11T08:05:00.000-04:00

A and I will be returning to our grueling schedule of OSU athletic events starting August 31st by taking in a men's soccer game at the Jesse Owens Facility on campus. They will be playing West Virginia in the Wolstein Classic at 5:00 p.m.

Since there have been no official events in June and July we will need to get back on track by doubling up sports/month for two months so we are planning a couple events for September. A. B. and myself will be attending the football home opener against the Youngstown State Penguins on September 1st. A women's soccer game against San Diego is a possibility on Sunday the 9th at 1:00-weather withstanding, and a conference women's volleyball game against Northwestern on on Friday the 21st at 7:00 is also scheduled.

We'd love to have some new honorary members if anyone is free those days to join us for a sporting event. If you would like to come, let one of us know so we rendezvous.

Fall Opportunities

2007-07-21T18:11:00.001-04:00

It is getting to be the time of year when teams will be appearing on campus to begin preseason conditioning and practice. I'm glad I'm just an observer and not a participator anticipating mid August heat and extreme conditioning! In preparation for our upcoming season in our quest to attend all 36 sports in 36 months, I have done a little investigation into what events will be happening during August and September.

I hate to speak for A but I have a feeling due to her aversion to inclement weather I believe our priorities will attending outdoor events on fairly nice days and saving indoor events for rainy or cold days. Not all schedules for teams have been updated on OSU's website so I am going off the ones that seem to have been updated for the 07-08 school year. We have two months to catch up since there actually are some sporting events in August! I am not sure about with the beginning of school either A or I will be up to attending any in August though. We'll see how much energy we have by then.

Options for events are as follows:

August:
Field Hockey- 25th and 26th
Soccer(M)- 31st
Soccer(W)- 21st and 31st

September:
Cross Country(M&W)- 15th
Field Hockey- 1st, 2nd, 21st, 23rd, & 28th
Football- 1st, 8th, & 22nd
Soccer(M)- 2nd, & 23rd
Soccer(W)- 2nd, 4th, 7th, 9th, 13th, 21st, & 28th
Volleyball(W)- 4th, 14th, 15th, 21st, & 23rd

Shirts and Sharpies are ready to head respectively North or South on 315 and support our Buckeyes!

New Honorary Members

2007-06-28T06:10:00.000-04:00

Two more folks have become honorary members in our 36 in 36 journey. Although they have not been at an "event attended" with us they both participated in an "unofficial event" (the tour of RPAC on June 21)

I am excited to present to you the new 36 in 36 honorary members: Steph S. and Jil A. Congratulations ladies I know you feel as if you have reached the pinnacle of life by being included on our quest.

RPAC

2007-06-25T15:28:00.000-04:00

A., M., and friend Steph were treated to a thorough tour of OSU's new Recreational and Physical Activity Center(RPAC) by soccer star Jil Anderson(Thanks Jil for taking time out of your busy schedule to show us around).

For those of you who attended OSU in earlier years, the new rec center is located on the site of the former Larkins Hall. Some express nostalgia to the old facility but fond memories encased in cobwebs would be promptly dusted away on entering the current facility. It is an amazing opportunity for students recreational needs to be met. All students enrolled in over four hours of classes are automatically charged a approximately $75 fee and are considered members of the facility and allowed access to all of it's recreational options.

I didn't realize how much was involved until I came home and tried to explain to hubby, Brent, exactly what we had seen on the tour. Hours later I was still remembering portions of the tour I had neglected to include in my description. It's difficult to describe over 25,000 square ft. of space accurately.

Some of the highlights of the tour:

*The company

*The moveable floor in the pool which aquatic aerobics are offered

*"Cardio Canyon"

*The natatorium ( new word learned meaning: an indoor swimming pool)

*The Lobby/Welcome Center area

Check this out - TBDRITL

2007-06-21T14:01:00.000-04:00

This youtube clip is about the Horseshoe, but it got me pumped for the fall sports in general.

Click here to view.

(Someone needs to show me how to put it in my blog)

OSU revisited

2007-06-10T13:27:00.000-04:00

After a long hiatus, we are back in the saddle, metaphorically speaking. Because there are no summer sports available to qualify as eligble to fufill the quest, we have booked some other summer events to keep the 36 in 36 girls active. June 21st J. A. will be taking A. and I on a tour of RPAC- the new rec center at The esteemed Ohio State University. A few of my soccer pals will be joining us. I can't wait until we have new pics to upload on the blog. If you would like to come please contact one of us.

BIG TEN CHAMPS!

2007-05-13T14:37:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to the 2007 OSU Softball team and the 2007 OSU Men's Tennis team. Both are the 2007 Big Ten Champions of their respective sport.

GO BUCKS!

Summer Events

2007-05-01T22:48:00.000-04:00

Although we will not be able to officially check off sporting events during the summer months, we have decided we would like to have a monthly event throughout the summers of our 36 in 36 challenge. The agenda is as follows: a tour of the RPAC in June - the new State of the Art Rec Center on the OSU campus from a close friend J. A. who works in the facility, Dinner out at the Buckeye Hall of Fame Cafe in July, Picnic with the Pops on Aug 2nd or 3rd with a guest appearance by TBDBITL ( also known as The Best Damn Band In The Land).

Softball

2007-05-01T22:44:00.000-04:00

What a great day for a softball game! A balmy breeze was blowingout to left, the sun was shining, and the crowd was in their shirt-sleeves. At our second official event we were pleased to watch the Lady Buckeyes win their second game of a double header against the Wright State Rowdy Raiders in a shut-out game. Pitcher Jamee Juarez broke two OSU records this evening by having the most career strike-outs and shut-out games!!! She now owns four OSU career records: strike outs, shut-outs, wins, and innings pitched. 36 in 36 now has a 2-0 win loss record. It's too early to say but we just might be good luck charms!

Curses, Foiled Again

2007-04-25T19:41:00.000-04:00

Because of the lovely Ohio weather we have all come to know and love, our plans have are subject to change at the drop of a ... raindrop. Tonight we were to attend the OSU softball game against Miami University in the hopes of seeing a rousing Ohio rivalry and achieve 2/36. Here I am, in my living room, typing on my laptop, watching an occasional drizzle out my picture window. We are not discouraged! (Mr. S that's for you) We will try again next Tuesday, May 1st for the second game of a double header against Wright State. We welcome Buckeyes and Rowdy Raiders alike to come out and share your support.

Panic Subsides...

2007-04-22T08:01:00.000-04:00

After scouring the spring sport schedules and our OEA calenders (those of you who are also teachers in this great state that is round on the ends and HI in the middle know exactly which ones I am talking about) we have found an opening! I can rest easy now knowing that we will be going into the summer months with 2 out of 36 checked off my shirt.

Softball it is folks! A and I will be attending the softball game against Miami of Ohio Wednesday. They are playing a double header starting at 5:00. We would be proud to induct any new Honorary Members who feel so inclined to tune themselves into the 36 in 36 sports family.

Panic Strikes!

2007-04-20T11:32:00.000-04:00

I must admit I feel quite harried at the end of this spring sports season. Both A and I have fairly busy schedules (yes I know some of you are thinking, "They obviously have enough time to think up, blog about, and try to follow through with this ridiculous scheme of theirs"). I'm beginning to panic because we may not be able to attend any more sporting events before summer quarter, which incidentally there are no sporting events scheduled for the summer months so this means we have to double up in other seasons to achieve our 36 in 36. M/W Lacrosse, M/W Tennis, M/W Golf, M/W Track and Field, Baseball, Softball, and M Volleyball are spring sports for those of you wondering. Yikes!

Jeni's

2007-04-16T20:28:00.000-04:00

We planned to spend last Sunday watching tennis, but it didn't happen. Instead Brent, M and I decided to spend our time touring our great city. Fortunately for us, the tour began with a trip to Jeni's ice cream. Magnificent! I had Thai Chili ice cream where I experienced for the first time in my life spicy ice cream. I know sounds weird...but it was good. Next time we have the good fortunate to visit Jeni's I will be having the Strawberry and Rose Petal...not quite as exotic as Thai chili but it tasted oh-so-good. Thanks for a fun day M and Brent!

If any of you fans out there know of any other uniquely Columbus eateries that we should try in the event of another sporting snaffoo (sp?) please comment and let us know. If we can't attend events we will be happy to spend time indulging ourselves instead!

#42

2007-04-15T20:17:00.000-04:00

For those of you 36 in 36 readers not plugged in to the sports world, today marks the 60th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier in professional baseball. In 1947, before public education or the army were integrated, before the Civil Rights movement, and before guaranteed voting rights for all citizens, #42 Jackie Robinson stepped on to Ebbet's field as a Brooklyn Dodger. Even though he remained hitless in his debut, he was awarded the Rookie of the Year trophy that season.

Today Dodger players take the field donning #42 on their jerseys honoring one of the most influential Americans of the 20th century. The number was retired ten years ago for the 50th anniversary not only for the Dodgers franchise but throughout the entire league. (In fact any player playing this evening throughout the major leagues was given the go ahead to wear the number if they so chose.)

As I was watching the ceremonies preceding this evenings game I am reminded why I am a sports enthusiast. Sport (and by "sport" I mean games, competition, and play from board games to professional athletics) offers us the opportunity to reveal character as participants or observers. Whether taking turns swinging bats at an annual picinic, discussing strategy, or intense competition, sport allows us to share laughter, thought, and struggle on fairly neutral ground. In the long run we know that it is not truely the game that matters but what we learned of the participants that does.

It was through this neutral venue that a young man was able to bear his heart in the face of criticism and death threats.

You Live you Learn

2007-04-15T20:00:00.000-04:00

Life lesson for Sunday April 15th, 2007:
If you want to attend an indoor tennis match you must arrive early! Seating is limited.

A, M, and Brent were excited to induct a new Honorary Member, "Trophy Life," today at the men's tennis match. Unfortunately because seating already was filled we were unable to attend our second event. Fret not faithful readers and hopeful honorary members, we will persevere.

Imus, Shame, Shame: Stringer, Standing O

2007-04-12T17:45:00.000-04:00

Glad this man is gone. Thanks CBS. He will DEFINITELY NOT be receiving an invitation to join us for our 36 in 36 tour. -A

M has secretly liked IMUS in the past. She is now sitting on the fence about him, because she is mildly incensed by his comments. Question #1: Which word do you think was more inflammatory 36 in 36 fans- the word referring to unkempt hair or the word referring to the young ladies personal character? (Remember, students may be reading so answer with tact.)

Mostly, I feel for C. Vivian Stringer, coach of the Rutger's women's team. In my viewing of women's basketball over time, she truly stands out as a woman of character who wants to develop character (click to listen to interview with PBS Tavis Smiley) in her players. This past season she took a team that started with a 5-5 record at the beginning of the year to a competitor in the national championship game.

In December she told her players that if they weren't playing like Rutgers athletes, they would no get the rewards of Rutgers athletes and took away their locker-room privileges, laundry services, and any other perks they received until she began seeing them play with drive and desire. She doesn't seem to be the kind of woman who puts up with anything other than her athletes best.

I must admit that I myself have referred to specific athletes in uncomplimentary ways. I do not know these players personally, only through their actions on the court. It is probably unfair for me to use any uncomplimentary language referring to the character of a person unless I have had specific dealings with the person. So for all of you out there waiting for apologies from me, here it goes: I will no longer make character judgements based solely on a persons athletic endeavors (I do reserve the right to comment on unfair play or underhanded actions viewed on the court).

Imus, I am down with freedom of speech and press and disappointed that you chose to insult a the players in a program that has been built by such a classy woman when there are so many other worthy candidates for your scorn out there.

Quote from Stringer's statement to the press after said incident: "Should we not, as adults, send a message of encouragement to young people to aspire to the highest levels as my team did this season?" M and A say yes! Men's tennis here we come with our message of encouragement.

Men's Tennis

2007-04-12T17:40:00.000-04:00

It's a big match. NO.3 OSU versus No. 9 Illinois. Here are some specifics if you'd like to join us for the Men's Tennis event on Sunday, April 15th. The match starts at noon and we have reliable information that tells us it could last anywhere between 2-3 hours. As I understand it the indoor tennis facilities are on Kenny close to west campus. Check out Ohio State's website listed on the right.

Hope to see you there!

Go Bucks!

SNOW BYRDS

2007-04-12T14:06:00.000-04:00

Paul Byrd (Cleveland Indians pitcher) may have wanted to tough out the snow in order to get another tally in the win column. It didn't work for him in the home opener against the Mariners and it's not going to work for us either. Although I think we look mighty cute in our OSU stocking caps. (See pic)

If the baseball game Sunday is postponed or cancelled due to snow or inclement weather, don't expect to see our two darling faces at the game. We will save that enthusiasm for month 24-36 of our 36 in 36. Instead we will most likely be found watching men's tennis indoors (hopefully). In these early stages we are still able to pick and choose sporting events based on climate. Trust me we are still committed to our quest but, are you kidding me, wouldn't you rather sit in the warmth than in the cold/wet/snowy weather of mid-April in Ohio?

Fret not future major leaguers, we will definitely bring out T-shirt clad selves to see a full 9 innings soon.

Honorary Members

2007-04-06T09:52:00.000-04:00

One of the things I am most excited about during our sports adventure is sharing the experience with any willing, or non-willing but easily coerced participants, friends, and family. Not that I am expecting this to become a state-wide, national, or even international initiative, but the potential is there.

The following is a list of Honorary 36 in 36 members:

April 1st-

MIKE and MARY- (although they didn't take in the lacrosse game that was our official event, they decided to watch a softball game that was being played concurrently)

BYRON- ( officially at the sports complex to take in a tennis match but due to a rain delay, we ran into him in the parking lot and he was easily convinced to watch women's lacrosse until the tennis match began)

Upcoming Baseball Outing

2007-04-04T17:49:00.000-04:00

We are currently planning a 36 in 36 outing to the OSU Men's Baseball game at 1:05 pm on April 14th. We'd love to have you join us! Look for the shirts, they will identify us! Plans are subject to change (we're busy women) so please check back to the blog frequently for possible schedule alterations.
Until then...

GO BUCKS!

Taxdollars at work

2007-04-04T16:51:00.000-04:00

M- my cousin A is a pro at this blogging thing, me... not so much. She is the brains behind the blog. For all of you 36 in 36 fans out there I have posted the philosophy behind this madness under "philosophy." I would also like to give a hoot and holler to my colleagues students at the Glen. (Since I met Jim Tressel I had to show all my older students this blog.) Don't worry all you taxpayers out there, I am not wasting academic time on this, I have turned this into a lesson about showing appreciation to those who go unappreciated. This is Character Education at it's finest (with a little bit of the WOW factor). It's the week before spring break, I need something to grab their attention!

38th National Collegiate Volleyball Championship

2007-04-03T17:09:00.000-04:00

THE Ohio State University is hosting the 38th annual NCAA Volleyball Championship at St. John Arena on May 3rd - May 5th. Click here for ticket information.

NOT JUST FOOTBALL COUNTRY

2007-04-02T21:22:00.000-04:00

GO BUCKS

Moral Behind the Madness

2007-04-02T18:18:00.000-04:00

As the co-creator of "36 in 36" I feel compelled to explain how the idea began. My husband Brent and I are fairly dedicated supporters of girls's high school and women's college basketball. In the course of our own lifespan, women's athletics are also experiencing their own "coming of age." I appreciate and anticipate the growing pains that come along with the maturation of women's athletics. Women's athletics as novelty has come and gone, Title IX has assurred equality, some athletes have become household names (Mia Hamm, the Williams sisters, Katie Smith-maybe that's just because I am a Bucknut), and now women's athletics are in the stages of acheiving legitamacy in the eyes of the American public (ESPN carries all 63 women's March Madness games on their family of networks).

To dedicate oneself and strive for excellence in anything that receives little but intrinsic value, in my opinion, has and always will be worthy cause. As A alluded to on 4/1; as a culture we have lost the beauty and importance of allowing ourselves to experience intrinsic value.

Brent and I have often wondered what the experience of athletes who remain unreconized is like? What about the "practice players," the benchwarmers, the obscure sport participants? Why do they volunteer for the rigors of academia, hectic travel schedules, and gruelling practices especially in the midst of the fervor surrounding particular athletes and athletic events? I'm sure that most of you have seen the commercials being aired during March Madness that say something like "there are 300,000 NCAA athletes, most of which go pro in something other than sports." These ads makes me glad to think that there are people who I will encounter throughout my life who, as young people, had the drive to acheive their personal bests just for the sake of pushing themselves, rather than for the attention they get for doing so. If only we all could dedicate and persue personal bests in regards to those endeavors which are most important to us whether publicly recognized or not.

So, as a tribute to those who strive for excellence regardless of the the outcomes (athletic or non), A and myself (and Brent for as many as possible) will attend events with excitement and gusto. We are unsure of where this journey will take us and how it will effect our psyche but we do know that as fans of sport we are excited to venture into some new venues!

April 1, 2007 Women's Lacrosse

2007-04-01T19:12:00.000-04:00

The weather was awesome for April 1 in Ohio. It was 70 degrees and partly sunny. The Buckeyes pulled off a 9-8 win over University of California Berkley in overtime. M, B, and A where joined by M and B's friend, Byron. We are were impressed with the athleticism demonstrated by these women. They run and run and run. And when they are not running they are avoiding the lacrosse sticks that are being swung at their heads. Oh yea, B thought the uniforms were pretty cool.

Pictures

Top: Lacrosse athletes in action

Middle: A and B at the lacrosse game during time out.

Bottom: M celebrates our first victory. We think we are definitely good luck charms.

Shirts

2007-04-01T18:39:00.000-04:00

M designed our shirts and did most of the ironing. Give her a hand, folks! She did an AWESOME job!

In the Begining

2007-04-01T18:01:00.000-04:00

The idea was for M to watch all 36 Buckeye varsity sports. Once her cousin A heard the idea, she decided to join in the fun. As the main idea was discussed amongst various people more ideas emerged...make a shirt, make a deadline, record scores, make a scrapbook, and, yes, also a blog. M designed a shirt (see blog); the deadline was 36 months; and the blog was officially started today.
Coincidentally, our 36 sports in 36 months challenge started today, April 1, 2007. We have until March 31, 2010 to attend all 36 varsity sporting events. Jim Tressel joined us for the inaugural event...ok, M actually flagged him down in the middle of the parking lot of the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. B, M's husband and co-creator of the idea, snapped our picture (while holding purses...hee hee). It was a great way to start our festivities.
We cannot take all the credit for making our dream come to fruition, there are people to thank in the infant stages of our journey. 1) Our husbands. B is our manager and will handle all fan mail :) as well as join us for most of the events. T is part of OSU's athletics department and has provided valuable information such as locations, directions and general admission tickets. Many thanks to both of them. 2) Any one who will join us in future activities. We look forward to spending time with you and rooting on our Buckeyes together. Keep posted on events we plan on attending.

GO BUCKS!