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 BDFFL News |
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Friday, June 27
2009 Agenda
AUGUST
30 MEETING (FEE and REGISTRATION DUE)
SEPTEMBER
6 SCRIMMAGE WEEK
13 WEEK 1
20 WEEK 2
27 WEEK 3
OCTOBER
4 WEEK 4
11 WEEK 5
18 WEEK 6
25 WEEK 7
NOVEMBER
1 WEEK 8
8 WEEK 9
15 WEEK 10
21 & 22 STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS
29 REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
DECEMBER
6 PRACTICE
13 PRACTICE
20 & 21 BULLDOG NIT ROCKY ASSARO MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT XV
27 BYE
JANUARY
3 PRACTICE
10 PRACTICE
15, 16, 17 NATIONALS
*SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
(log on weekly for changes, especially the day before your game in case a change has occured)
Wednesday, April 8
2009 FALL SEASON
The Season will start SEPTEMBER 6th and conclude on DECEMBER 20th including the post season. Our base playing site is Waterloo Park, one of the best fields around, which has an open bathroom, a pavillion and and playing area for kids. It is also within a 20 minute drive from Baltimore and A.A.C. Glen Burnie area.
9-man & 8-man IE is $650 and 5-man is $350 for 10 games at Waterloo Park or other grass field or Rockburn Park/Western Regional Park or other synthetic grass turf field in the Howard or Baltimore County area.
We will be having a 10 game Regular Season with Playoff and Championship format that plays around USFTL/AFTFL Tournaments.
Game lengths are Four 15 minute quarters which will be officiated under regulation clock, thus longer game time than other any other leagues.(Click on "Officials and Rules" on the website for more information)
AGENDA AND RULES: It is imperative before you sign up that you make yourself familiar with the USFTL and USFTL Agenda and Rules. Your fee covers regular season only and any tournaments you want your team to participate in must be known to the Commissioner prior to initial scheduling.
TEAMS: If you put a team in the league, you are considered to be an Owner of that franchise and must appoint a Head Coach/Coaches/Captains/Team Representative/Manager (you can also have more than the Ownership position);who will have the responsibility to inform his players of team/league Rules and information. Owners must pay the registration fee which includes a field usage fee and the U.S.F.T.L. sanctioning & certification fee which then they will obtain a U.S.F.T.L. rulebook from USFTL HEADQUARTERS. Owners can aquire funds for their team by sponsorships (businesses or community patrons or by collectively gathering funds from players that they aquire on their team after creating a budget for uniforms, officials, equipment, etc. then dividing the costs amongst the players.
Owners are given a team website on the league website page where they can drop players and add new players during the season. Add-ons can be done at any point of the season as long as they meet player eligibility defined in the USFTL rulebook constitution and BDFFL rules. Players that move from one team to another by trade or release and aquired must do so before the 6th game of the season and cannot return to the Team they left.
INDIVIDUALS: If you want to participate as a player in the league, you are considered a "Free Agent". Free Agent players are REQUIRED to fill out a registration form and email it to the Commissioner. Please read ALL the rules on the website carefully as you will be held accountable. It is also recommended that you purchase a rulebook from the USFTL. Players are then placed on a team and contact information will be made available to you. It is then the responsibility of each player to abide by his teams rules and regulations in order to remain an active participant within the league.
This league was formed for your competitiveness, fair play and to have serious fun. We've had very entertaining games over the past 20 seasons with teams that featured players from all around the area.
Feel free to contact:
Dave Mitchell, BDFFL Commissioner
Email: 4BullDogFlagFootball@msn.com
Phone: (410) 719-2153 TEAMS/INDIVIDUALS
Sunday, November 16
USFTL BULLDOG "ROCKY ASSARO" MEMORIAL NIT XV
USFTL BULLDOG "ROCKY ASSARO" MEMORIAL NIT XV
Who: 9-man,8-man,5-man
*(cut off is first 8 teams in each division)
Where: Catonsville High School
When: December 19th & 20th 2009
Entry Cost: $275 (pay refs $45 a team each game)
Due: Sunday, December 13th, Meeting Loafers Lounge 3-5pm in Catonsville
Award: USFTL BID and POINTS, GIANT TROPHY
REGISTRATION FORM
****CUT AND PASTE THIS REGISTRATION FORM FILL OUT AND EMAIL TO ME****
My signature signifies my participation in the BullDog Flag-Football League. I understand that I will play at my own risk and that any injury sustained while playing is the sole responsibility of myself, as I wave any claim against the League and its affiliates. I also understand that any ?unsportsmanlike conduct? towards any player, official, coach, captain, commissioner, spectator, etc. (as defined in the U.S.F.T. L. rule book) can result in my immediate suspension or termination WITHOUT refund, I will also display a mature attitude and abide by all U.S.F.T.L. and BullDog rules and regulations.
TEAMS
Name of Team:
City/Town representing:
Sponsor:
Head Coach/Chief Captain:
Address:
Phone:
Email:
Other coaches/captains/team reps:
Teams orgin and prior leagues,levels played in:
INDIVIDUAL PLAYERS
Full Name:
Date:
Address:
Phone:
Email:
Ht.
Wt.
Off. Position(s):
Def. Position(s):
Football experience:
How would you rate yourself as a team/player:
A=Great athlete with division I or II college level who is at the top of his given position at this level, which displays coached technique, mechanics and studies the game having knowledge inside and out of offensive sets and defensive schemes and knows technical football jargon
B=Good athlete who has athletic skill and moderate knowledge of the game
C=Average backyard ballplayer who has played some football in the past and has heart to play and willing to learn
D=Don't quite possess the muscle or coordination to compete with better athletes but willing to be a 2nd or 3rd string player and/or find a role with a team while working to raise their game a level
Now email this to 4bulldogflagfootball@msn.com
USFTL BULLDOG "ROCKY ASSARO" MEMORIAL NIT XIV
DECEMBER 15th & 16th
B.D.F.F.L. 'ROCKY ASSARO' MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT XIV RESULTS
*(In honor of my 5 month old nephew that died due to SBS)
Catonsville Community Park & Catonsville High School Turf Field
9/8-man IE CHAMPION
BLAZE (Star Fitness Inc. Baltimore, MD.) 5-0
2. PACKERS (Baltimore, MD.) 3-1
T3. BELTWAY BRUINS (PG County, MD.) 1-3
T3. HOTEL BELMAR (Altoona, PA.) 2-2
5. DESTALLIONS (Baltimore, MD.) 1-2
6. GOLD'S GYM (Martinsburg, WV.) 1-2
7. NE TROJANS (Harold T. Stafford Inc. Baltimore, MD.) 0-3
M.V.P. Derek Dixon, Blaze LB/WR 2 Td's/3 Int. including 70y pass rec. to beat Trojans, 104 int. ret. to beat Beltway Bruins and 80 int. ret. to defeat the Packers
5-man CHAMPION
MAYHEM (Parkville, MD.) 2-0
COLTS (Catonsville, MD.) 1-1
DESTALLIONS (Baltimore, MD.) 0-2
M.V.P. Mike Aring, Mayhem WR for directing and organizing his team to key plays that won both games for his team
SATURDAY Scores (Round Robin for seeding)
Packers 14 Trojans 7 (OT)
Blaze 12 Beltway Bruins 8
Hotel Belmar 20 Gold's Gym 0
Blaze 7 Trojans 0
DeStallions 12 Hotel Belmar 6
Packers 13 Beltway Bruins 7
Gold's Gym 14 DeStallions 8
5-man
Mayhem 18 DeStallions 7
SUNDAY scores
Quarter-Finals
(5)Hotel Belmar 12 (4)Trojans 6 (OT)
(3)Beltway Bruins 20 (6)DeStallions 0
(2)Blaze 29 (7)Gold's Gym 0
(1)Packers Bye
Semi-Finals
Packers 6 Hotel Belmar 0
Blaze 21 Beltway Bruins 6
CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES
Blaze 20 Packers 12
5-man
Mayhem 10 Colts 2
Friday, January 11
Shaken Baby/ Shaken impact syndrome
Shaken baby/shaken impact syndrome (SBS) is a form of inflicted head trauma. Head injury, as a form of child abuse, can be caused by direct blows to the head, dropping or throwing the child, or shaking the child. Head trauma is the leading cause of death in child abuse cases in the United States.
How Does SBS Happen?
Unlike other forms of inflicted head trauma, SBS results from injuries caused by someone vigorously shaking an infant. Because of the anatomy of infants, they're at particular risk for injury from this kind of action. Therefore, the vast majority of incidents occur in infants who are younger than 1 year old. The average age of victims is between 3 and 8 months, although SBS is occasionally seen in children up to 4 years old.
The perpetrators in SBS cases are almost always parents or caregivers, who shake the baby out of frustration or stress when the little one is crying inconsolably. Sadly, the shaking has the desired effect: although at first the baby cries more out of fear, it eventually stops crying as the brain is damaged.
Approximately 60% of shaken babies are male, and children of families who live at or below the poverty level are at an increased risk for SBS as well as any type of child abuse. And it's estimated that the perpetrators in 65% to 90% of cases are males — usually either the baby's father or the mother's boyfriend, often someone in his early 20s.
When someone forcefully shakes a baby, the child's head rotates about uncontrollably because infants' neck muscles aren't well developed and provide little support for their heads. The violent movement pitches the infant's brain back and forth within the skull, rupturing blood vessels and nerves throughout the brain and tearing the brain tissue. The brain strikes the inside of the skull, causing bruising and bleeding to the brain.
The damage is even greater when the shaking ends with an impact (hitting a wall or a crib mattress, for example), because the forces of acceleration and deceleration associated with an impact are so strong. After the shaking, swelling in the brain can cause enormous pressure within the skull, compressing blood vessels and increasing overall injury to its delicate structure.
Normal interaction with a child, like bouncing the baby on a knee, will not cause SBS, although it's important to never shake a baby under any circumstances because gentle shaking can rapidly escalate.
Saturday, March 24
NEED FLAG FOOTBALL SUPPLIES? ORDER HERE...
The B.D.F.F.L. is "an Affiliate of FootballAmerica.com."
http://www.FootballAmerica.com/?file=shopaff&fext=asp&affid=26643
Football America has ALL uniform jersey and pants and other Football accesories right in stock at its local store warehouse. Click this Link and tell them Bulldog Flag Football sent you.
Wednesday, May 30
SPORTSMANSHIP IN THE NFL (EXPOSITORY ENGLISH 121 ESSAY) by Dave Mitchell
There have been emerging issues in the National Football League over the past few seasons, regarding the aspects of both positive and negative sportsmanship. Unfortunately, from the media, we hear more about bad sportsmanship than good, with the most difficult situations arising these days, creating many gray areas in which there is much controversy. Sportsmanship can be defined as "The fact or practice of participating in sports or a sport. Conduct and attitude considered as befitting participants in sports, especially fair play, courtesy, striving spirit, and grace in losing." ("sportsmanship"). More NFL players need to be aware that their actions effect the youth and recreational players across the country. There must be more focus on the positive acts and players that are role models, while holding those accountable who break the rules, as we clarify the ethos of open issues.
The face of sportsmanship has changed severally since the NFL came into play in 1920. In past decades, antics such as trash talking and fighting were status quo, where leg whippings, head slapping and roughing were not even penalties. The NFL competition committee since the late 80's has taken measures to deter players from such actions that would be considered detrimental to the leagues image. Former 49ers Head Coach, Bill Walsh sent a tape to the committee after being appalled by players who participated in pre game fights (Lynch, 2001). The NFL Players Association over this time has developed a strict Code of Conduct policy and has cracked down on players that violate these rules (NFL Players Association). Still, it has not been enough for some players that have let their emotions control them. Former league Commissioner, Paul Tagliabue (1989-2006) as well co-chairman and current Arizona Cardinals Head Coach, Dennis Green have taken several measures to institute rules and regulations that will help advocate fair play, as well as promote a cleaner league image, including the banning of wearing bandanas, which was thought to influence unnecessary violence because it represented gang paraphernalia (Pierson, 2001).
Since then all NFL teams have also adapted their own strict policies of proper ethical conduct to ensure better discipline from all players. Most organizations use this as a guide to what kind of players they would like to have on their team as far as personality and character are concerned.
Indianapolis Colts general manager, Bill Polian, in the 1998 draft must have seen these attributes in Tennessee quarterback, Peyton Manning as he chose to draft him over an apparent bigger and stronger, quarterback from Washington State named Ryan Leaf, who has since been ousted from the NFL for blatant immaturity and an overall disposition of arrogance. Manning has since become one of the poster children of the NFL regarding sportsmanship. He carries himself with confidence, yet with humbleness and humility as he has become one of the most prolific quarterbacks of all time after 9 years in league. He always addresses reporters candidly and congenially while taking a "politically correct" approach when handling the media's barrage of questions in post game interviews. He is the example of integrity that more players should follow. Even after beating his brother Eli, who quarterbacks the New York Giants on opening day earlier this 2006 season, the first time in NFL history where two brothers who were both quarterbacks of their respected teams faced one another, he refused to feed into the hype of how the older brother taught the younger brother a lesson after the Colts prevailed in the game. Instead of razzing his brother and stating bragging rights, that some players might have done, he told national television how proud he was of his brother and how much he was impressed with his play, never once displaying a condescending attitude.
Perhaps Manning's best show of class was back in 2004, with just two games remaining in the season, he was one touchdown shy of the all time record for passing touchdowns in a single season. With his team winning with less than 2 minutes to go in the game where the Colts had the ball on the 5 yard line of a depleted Baltimore Ravens team, it would have been easy for him to go for the record, while such momentum and advantage was on his side. However, Manning opted to take a knee and let the clock run out, showing the league the way the game should be played (The Sun, 2004) . Tom Brady, quarterback of the New England Patriots, an equal counter part and rival, doesn't have the prolific stats that Manning does, but does have 3 super bowl titles to his credit. Like Manning, Brady has the reputation of a true professional, a class act that only few champions possess. It's important to recognize that it would be either easy to fall into complacency after all that success or even worse, develop a cocky unbecoming attitude. But Brady has stayed the course through his 6 year career, maintaining a strong work ethic, staying motivated with a serious demeanor. Manning and Brady are much alike in how they display proper sportsmanship and it should be noted that despite the contrast of one having many championships and the other having most of the NFL records, strong character and ethics bond the two as primary examples of how better sportsmanship can be witnessed in the NFL. Sportsmanship is what makes the great ones set apart from the rest. Take the all time leading receiver, Jerry Rice and running back extraordinaire, Barry Sanders, most of the time after scoring, they would just hand the ball to the official, unlike many others who would gloat towards the defense, while spiking the ball. There are a lot of good players, but these are the kind of men, that are some of the true role models of sportsmanship, that we need to take lessons from.
Handshakes and prayers before and after the game are positive actions that everyone needs to pay more attention too. Even rivalries can come together after the game and share a moment in prayer, as they realize its only a game and see the bigger picture of what really matters, such as the case of Cincinnati Bengal's wide receiver, Chad Johnson and Atlanta Falcon's cornerback DeAngelo Hall, who both are one of the best at their positions. Despite the hype and intense play by them against one another, afterwards they meet in the middle of the field, knelt down in prayer and then gave a small shoulder hug while clasping hands together, as they shared brief regards and respect to one another. If only these gestures were more common, it may make other players see that this kind of sportsmanship is what matters. Many players do have off the field as well as on the field relationships with one another. This camaraderie is what keeps the NFL fortified as a strong organization (Brown, 2000).
It does make sense that the most superior players in the sport should have the strongest and the most intelligent sense of having good character. No matter what age we are, many of us look at these athletes as heroes, not just because they can play a game that we love, but for what they mean to the community. Although bound by their contracts to have certain expectations to give back to the community, it?s the players that go above and beyond those requirements that should be most admired. Much money was given by NFL players to aid in the relief of hurricane Katrina victims. The New Orlean Saints organization was affected the most as their entire facilities were literally wiped out. The NFL and numerous amounts players made contributions, including actually going down to Louisiana and actively participating in the clean up efforts. This kind of volunteering shows the pure heart of sportsmanship outside of the sport which carries over into the game. The United Way campaigns and commercializes several of the leagues top players which are involved in helping with these types of causes, in hopes that we will contribute too. Arizona Cardinals safety, Pat Tillman choose to forego his prominent NFL career and fulfill his obligations to servicing his country in the Iraq war. It was not until his death in the war, that others recognized what honor and courage really exemplified.
There are awards in the NFL that recognize players achievements, most popular amongst fans is the MVP, which is given to the player that was the most valuable player to his team that season. Also, the players that are nominated to the Pro-Bowl are so nominated by the fans by being voted the best in their positions. An award that should be more notable is the Ed Block courage award, which is given to the player who shows the most commitment to sportsmanship and courage. By making this the most prominent award, more would try and achieve it.
Unfortunately, too many players are going the opposite direction, as evident by all the negative actions and issues that have been created. Instead of playing a clean game, players often resort to manipulating the rules by finding ways to get away with what they can so they can have an advantage to win. It often starts with trash talking, escalates into subtle to flagrant cheap shots and late hits.
Although most of these unsportsmanlike conduct penalties are called, it still takes away from the integrity of the game. Players should be more aware of their on the field responsibilities. While aggressive and smart play are often within the scheme of things, it would be a serious violation of the leagues ethics if players were coached to inflict ill will in any way. So anything that a player does wrong, he should be held solely accountable, as they are with fines and suspensions.
Players need to compose their frustrations and stop blaming teammates and coaches when the team loses. Such despicable behavior is unbelievable to comprehend at times, because you can't believe that a grown man of this caliber is actually able to be that way. These type of players don't even understand the repercussions of their deeds sometimes. One of the most hideous displays of recent on the field incidents is when Tennessee Titan offensive, lineman Albert Haynesworth intentionally stomped on Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman, Andre Gurode's head when his helmet came off during a play. Haynesworth was fined and suspended an unprecedented 5 games, but due to the nature of such a horrible action, the general public thought it was lenient (ESPN, 2006). Haynesworth in his defense sincerely apologized, but also digressed to saying that it was out of character for him. Two days later ESPN aired a tape that was taken 2 years ago at a Titans practiced, which showed an incident where Haynesworth, while going through drills, unjustifiably kicked one of his fellow teammates. This showed it was certainly in Haynesworth character, to do bodily harm without provocation.
Another serious issue in the NFL today, is that players are getting into trouble with the law regarding criminal activity, namely DWI's and domestic violence. We can understand that players are exposed to difficult situations that they may not be used to, with extended pressures, but that doesn't excuse the wrong things that they do. It appears that several players have their own mixed persona and values. Baltimore Ravens linebacker, Ray Lewis fits just this particular mold as he is a contradictive character. One of the best that has ever played the game, he has often stood out among his constituents with his fired up type play as he is the outspoken leader of his team. He shows great sportsmanship, often taking in stride the shenanigans of others when their uncouth ways are thrown his way. People like him because he is personable and tells people in and outside the football world the realities of how the game is---that woofing and jawing at opponents is just part of the game. Lewis speaks of how the game is in this regard and embraces that side, to a certain extent. There may be where the problem lies. He should be telling us how it should be! He should be speaking against such behavior on and off the field. Back in 2000, he was charged with being involved with murder of two Atlanta men, after Super Bowl 34 (Gibeaut, 2000). He initially lied to police telling them he knew nothing. After all was sorted out, he was not involved directly in the murders, but did know who did it and tried to cover up evidence. He plead guilty to obstruction of justice and was placed on probation. The following season he defied the "bandana rule" and was fined several thousand dollars. Although he is regarded by many in the league as a highly respected player and adored by Baltimore fans, it just doesn't seem right he should be looked at as a role model of sportsmanship because of his shameful disgraces and the fact that he does nothing to promote sportsmanship in the game.
Other controversial figures, with flamboyant styles are Dallas Cowboy wide receiver Terrell Owens and the Bengals, Johnson. Owens started his attention getting ways while playing for the San Francisco 49ers, when after scoring a touchdown, he pulled out a sharpie pen and signed the football, a game later after another touchdown, he went up to the hometown cheerleaders and took ones pom poms and begin to partake in their celebration cheer. These seemed harmless enough and perhaps amusing, however Owens crossed the line a few games down the road in Dallas, where after scoring, he ran to the center of the field where the Dallas star is displayed and began showboating. This was simply an insult and in poor taste. Owens was suspended a game by Head Coach Steve Mariachi. At that turn, Owens has headed down a road of ill repute, often being defiant to coaches and players alike. He went so far as to write a book where he speculated one of teammates to be a homosexual. He then went to the Philadelphia Eagles, where he ostracized just about his entire team by making open and unnecessary criticisms to the media. Ironically enough, Owens has since been traded to the Dallas Cowboys where he has made virtually no progress with his bad attitude. Franchises have only tolerated his ways because he such an outstanding, dominant player at his position, but how much longer will he last with his selfish, all about me disposition? Chad Johnson, although outrageous and an attention getter himself, has never been insulting towards others. However, last year, his end zone celebrations rubbed the league authorities the wrong way as he used the ball and the pylon for small skits, that some people found excessive and inappropriate. This season, new rules were put in place, that the ball could not be used in any method when expressing celebration after a touchdown. Johnson has now resorted to short dance versions to express himself such as river dance and salsa. This is accepted much better by all as an extra form of entertainment for the fans in the stadium as well as the viewers at home and many find that more tasteful than beating on ones chest and/or pointing to the opposing crowd after a score.
Often there are moments that truly reveal ones character in how they may truly feel deep down about sportsmanship, such as their reaction to a fight between one of their teammates and a player from the other team. Often we see both benches clear, like it's almost an excuse for players to act violent and aggressive rather than trying to pacify the situation by just remaining cool and calm. If anything, trying to break up the fight or playing peacemaker before it starts or perceiving a situation that can get out of hand.
One can only wonder what makes a player act this way. Did they develop these behaviors at a young age? Were they raised this way? Several studies have been done with young children regarding sportsmanship and moral development. "Sport psychology interventions are a promising development that can enhance the well-being and psychosocial development of children. This area constitutes an exciting arena for both psychological research and intervention. There is little known about the efficacy of parent interventions. These empirical questions have yet to be addressed. Clearly, more data are needed on the effects of both coach and parent directed interventions" (VanRaalte and Brewer, 2002). This should be explored more as we analyze these athletes on why they do what they do. "Although it is frequently asserted that sports build sportsmanship and character, research on moral reasoning and behavior suggests a less optimistic view. For example, recent research indicates that the sanctioning of aggressive and competitive behavior in sport may have negative consequences on moral development (Shields, 2002). This could be why we see so many different kinds of vindictive attitudes of those who hold individual grudges, harness contrary emotions and have a thug mentality towards others as they display this image towards the media.
Talk shows have certainly had an influence as analysts on ESPN, Sports center, The Blitz, Pardon the Interruption, This week in the NFL and the NFL Network break down, probe, while objectively scrutinizing these types of issues. Although they cover the issue and imply what a player does is wrong when he is clearly out of line, seldom do you hear them stressing the importance of sportsmanship. Just last week, NFL Network host, Rich Eisen was asking players around the league, when playing their former team, don't they use revenge as a form of motivation. This was such meaningless banter. However, Real Sports with host Bryant Gumbel does have an interesting approach on how they crackdown on notorious behavior. Such magazines as Sports Illustrated and Pro Football Weekly, often sensationalize of the main stories and stir up debatable issues, while articles of fair play are often buried in smaller columns. The same with talk show radio hosts as well as commentators which call the play by play. They are quick and loud to point of something controversial and disturbing in regards to a player's actions. They all should take more time to promote what proper sportsmanship is all about, keeping in mind that millions of young children and men are out there watching and listening.
With the study of rules, many gray areas are out there as with many other rubs and controversies. This leads to many ethical dilemmas to what is actually right and wrong in many situations. Some have the "Boys will be Boys" attitude when it comes to players getting in a scrap as it is accepted as part of the game and is bound to happen in a game of physical play, especially where millions of dollars are involved. But is money the root to this evil? Back in the mid century, players weren't paid much, if anything as the NFL was not a marketable and profitable business at the time. Still, we can witness for ourselves on NFL films, players tripping, punching, ripping and twisting other players heads when making a tackle or throwing a block. Players would stand over other players after knocking them down, creating much animosity. These players were regarded as modern day gladiators and warriors. Fans accepted if not thrived on this type of violence as it was the norm, not the exception.
Some now say, the NFL has went too far with its policies of cracking down on rough play (Bruton, 2001). The stage has changed as the culture has changed from players back in the 20's, 30's, 40's, 50's, 60's until now. There has been a major transition and overhaul, which began in the 70's as the NFL began to become big business. Former commissioner Pete Rosell and owners had to clean up a game where many star players, the fans were coming to see, mostly quarterbacks were suffering many injuries from tactics used by defensive players. The NFL had to impose more emphasis on mechanics and techniques, to reasonably protect players that were more vulnerable to injury, otherwise there would be not much quality play for fans to watch.
However, this still has not cleared up the emotional reality that players have, which can be often misconstrued by an opponent as unsportsmanlike play. The NFL in being subjective to allow other celebrations, such as spiking the ball, jumping into the stands, dunking the coach with a Gatorade bath can be perceived as cockiness and not necessarily elation. It also comes down to personality as many like Deion Sanders style of being Mr. Primetime with his showcasing and showboat displays, as he usually follows it with a big friendly smile and charismatic attitude but many despise Steve Smith as he may do the same things, but when you see him on the sideline afterwards, he is trying to come off all hard and tough.
No one is saying that a player has to be perfect. This is not to say players can't get pumped up on high emotions at times, and we should not misinterpret this as a character flaw. There is a difference between displaying high emotions in a situation that may call for it and showing poor sportsmanship. Peyton Manning, Tom Brady and Jerry Rice have had their outbursts towards players when trying to push themselves and their teammates during a contest. This is known as competitive fire.
Is it proper to celebrate good plays, scores and game winning moments? To charge the field after your kicker just nailed a 45 yarder to win it in overtime. Do we not need that monument us joy to equivalize when we fail, then have to hear patronizing words and sympathys from our fellow teammates. How much is too much and should these celebrations be at the expense of sportsmanship? Due to the emotional impact that boils over to fans and spectators alike, suggesting an even keel approach before and after the game would not be a bad idea. Mike Ditka, former NFL great would like to see more coaches play fair and not try to manipulate the rules as "its just not good sportsmanship".. He said this in regards to the advantage that an offensive team has inside the two minute warning, if needing to stop the clock, all they have to do is create a penalty. There is currently a ten second run off on the clock for the offense with some infractions, but not all of them, in which he would like to see. Former NFL great Irving Fryar understands what goes on in the NFL offers his time in speaking to all the young players in the NFL. As a former bad boy reforming to a Pentecostal minister, they hang on his every word. (Freeman 2002).
For everyone that loves professional football I would hope that there are many other programs created by the NFL to help players keep their head. Offering players more classes on sportsmanship would be a good start as there is a bigger problem and mess than many think. Most players know what the line is and not to cross it. It would be good for all to realize that the other team is not your enemy, but your opponent.
Work Citations:
Lynch, Kevin. San Francisco Chronicle March 27, 2001 pE7
NFL MEETINGS / Gragg Nearly in 49ers' Fold / Raiders get cold shoulder
during owners' meetings. (SPORTS), HCC Library Document Number:
CJ72318508
http://libproxy.howardcc.edu
NFL Players Association
NFLPA REGULATIONS GOVERNING CONTRACT ADVISORS (as amended
through November, 2003)
http://www.nflpa.org/RulesAndRegs/AgentRegulations.aspx
Pierson, Don. (Chicago Tribune)
Knight Ridder/Tribune News Service March 26, 2001 pK6033
Owners' bandana ban vote coming. HCC Library, Document Number:
A72316954
http://libproxy.howardcc.edu:
The Sun. Baltimore, Md.: Dec 21, 2004. p.4.C
Kneeling on verge of record, Manning stands tall http://libproxy.howardcc.edu:
ESPN.com-NFL-Haynesworth penalty comes in 5 games
sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2610577
Gibeaut, John. ABA Journal. Chicago:July 2000. Vol.86 p. 38, 11 pgs
When Pros Turn Cons
http://libproxy.howardcc.edu:
VanRaalte, Judy L., BrittonW. Brewer and Shields, 2002, p.363-366
Exploring Sport and Exercise Psychology
Bruton, Mike. The Philadelphia Inquirer, 2001
Has the NFL's taunting policy gone too far
Distributed by Knight Ridder/Tribune Information Services
http://libproxy.howardcc.edu:
Brown, Jim and Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen. "Chicken Soup For The Sports Fan". Teammates Are For Life (2000) p.137
Freeman, Mike. Bloody Sundays. (2002) Fryar Irving, The Anti-Violence Plan. P.199
SPORTSMANSHIP WINTER WARM UP TOURNAMENT
The United States Flag & Touch League (USFTL) will be hosting a 1 day Tournament on Sunday, December 17th for the central Maryland area teams. This will be a warm-up tourney for the USFTL Nationals on January 12-14 in Orlando, Florida.
The format will be 7-7 skeleton style play via 1 Center, 1 QB and 5 eligible Receivers. All 9-man teams, 7-man, 8-man and 5-man teams are encouraged to play.
Cost is $225 a team, double elimination format. First (8) teams enrolled by December 10th.
*Any individuals wishing to join a team, please contact me via email 4bulldogflagfootball@msn.com and you will be placed on a team as soon as possible.
BUSINESS SPONSORSHIP FORM
Dear Business Patron,
The U.S.F.T.L./B.D.F.F.L. (United States Flag & Touch League/ BullDog Flag Football League) would like you to be a sponsor for this 2006 spring season which runs April 2nd until July 19th 2005.
I am personally contacting several businesses in all counties around the area requesting sponsorship for our 15th season. Our league over the years has enabled several young to middle aged men to enjoy the fun, spirited competition of flag-football in the community. These enriching experiences have enabled the sport to grow rapidly in our area. I have always been dedicated to help run and will continue to run a sound organization with fine amateur athletes. We are a certified, sanctioned and accredited league with a nationally known set of rules (USFTL rulebook) and a league that has a uniform code to insure quality.Over 1 million people play Flag Football in the U.S. and over 5,000 of those play on some kind of level, in the Central Maryland Region.
As you know, your sponsorship will promote your business, add notoriety with people in the community as well as county wide in your area, and is "tax deductible" as a business expense. You will also be helping with an on-going growing tradition by funding players and teams who are seeking help with revenue.
If your business is interested in sponsoring it's own team with your own employees you are more than welcomed to.
In the past we've had Delta Faucet, Alex Brown and Sons, Skynet Paging, Audio Profile and Miller's Cheverolet to just name a few, along with the United States Coast Guard and Andrews Air Force Base, and most recently Estillo Shoes.
Thank you for your support,
David C. Mitchell, Commissioner B.D.F.F.L.
________________________ agrees to sponsor the U.S.F.T.L./ B.D.F.F.L.. for the ______ season for _______ with negotiable terms below.
____Conference(max 10 teams) $1300-$2500 a team($550 league fee,$750 officials,$1500 uniforms)
A conference sponsorship allows the sponsoring company to have their company name on all of the players jerseys in the league, a giant company banner to be displayed at every football game and the company's name along with the team results published in the area media including the Baltimore Sun, Howard County News, Maryland Gazette, etc.. Your companys name will also be featured on the leagues website on the front Home page. Players will also do their best to patron your business.
____Team (max 30 players) $1300-$2500 a team ($550 league fee, $750 officials, $1500 uniforms)
A team sponsorship allows the sponsoring company to have their company name on all of the players jerseys on the team, a large company banner to be displayed at every football game and the company's name along with the team results published in the area media including the Baltimore Sun, Howard County News, Maryland Gazette, etc.. Your companys name will also be on the league's website home page and also with your teams site on the league website. Players will also do their best to patron your business.
____Individual $100 ($50 league and official fees, $50 uniform)
An individual sponsorship allows the sponsoring company to have their name on that players jersey and be put on the league's website. This player will also patron your business.
*The above is intended as a guideline
PRAYER REQUESTS
LOST AND FOUND
Please email me for anything you may have left at the field during a season
Friday, April 14
2006 SPRING RELEASES/TRADES/WAIVERS/AQUISITIONS & OTHER TRANSACTIONS
SCORPIONS(30)
Add Kelvin Collins, Todd Turner
Place Kenny Pompei on IR(Knee)
BUCS (27)
Release Jacinto Abril, Kenny Horning, Chris O'Connor, Jamahl Gill, Troy Chapman, Dan Spalt
Aquire Shawn Reid, Derrick Wilson, Anthony Browner, Shaun Smith, Joel Abel
Place Argin Henry on IR(calf tear)
Trade to Outlawz: Al Jarrett, Fola Soyoye, Terry Taylor, Tony Taylor, Damon White for William Blue
DESTALLIONS (28)
Add Lewis Johnson, Brian Johnson, Keenon Byrd, Corey Sumther, Kenneth Washington, Kevin Blancher
Release Joron Harris
Activate Jason White (Coach)
OUTLAWZ(30)
Add Doug Johnson, P.J. Matthews, Tony Haynes, Nick Conway, Steve Balcer
Trade to Bucs: William Blue for Al Jarrett, Fola Soyoye, Terry Taylor, Tony Taylor, Damon White
Release James Peeker, Ben Sproles,David Daugherty, Brycen Erbe, Nick Bruns
BLAZE(30)
Place Jesse Cooper on IR (ankle ligaments)
Add Durran Roundtree
Release Terrence Roberts
TIGERS(28)
Release Judah Jones, Nuriddin Muhammaad, Kevin Moore, Jay Seymour
Aquire Bernard Adams, Terrence Roberts
Add Russell Robertson, Lensey Hamilton, Nick Peart
TROJANS(27)
Release Matt Williams
Add Noah Mornwah, Matt Trigger
Place on IR Jerod Winston, John Rose
RAMS(28)
None
2006 AGENDA
APRIL
1 Final Rosters posted on website by 12 midnight
2 WEEK 1
(Rosters of Agreement-Liability & Waiver Forms turned in)
9 WEEK 2
16 BYE (EASTER CELEBRATION of our LORD JESUS)
23 WEEK 3
30 WEEK 4
MAY
7 WEEK 5
14 WEEK 6 (MOTHERS DAY---bring mom to the game!)
21 BYE (METRO CUP in CLINTON, MD)
28 WEEK 7
JUNE
4 WEEK 8
11 WEEK 9
18 WEEK 10 (FATHERS DAY---bring dad to the game!)
25 BYE (VA BEACH TOURNEY)
JULY
2 WEEK 11
9 WEEK 12
16 WEEK 13
23 PLAYOFFS & CHAMPIONSHIP
30 New England Flag Football Classic NIT
AUGUST
6 Open date
13 Open date
20 Open date
27 Open date
SEPTEMBER
3 Idle
10 Idle
17 Idle
23/24 Idle
OCTOBER
1 Idle
8 Idle
15 Idle
22 Idle
29 Idle
NOVEMBER
5 Idle
12 Idle
19 Idle
26 Tournament
DECEMBER
3 Idle
10 Idle
17 Tournament
24 Idle
31 Idle
PHOTOS AND STATISTICAL LEADERS
Each season I take team photos. This is how they are done.
*Team Photos
We would need to take a professional like team pictures (on the bleacher or standing/kneeling, shoulder to shoulder, row to row, in numerical order against the playing background with no one in the shot behind i.e. goalposts are good in the background.
Pictures should be with no children, gatorade bottles, etc. or any other people except those in "direct association" i.e. managers to put into your Team's site. If its not done in this format, then it WILL NOT be put on the site and the Baltimore Sun and other local papers and media will not except it.
*Individual Photos (Top 4 players on each team)
*Action Photos (submit to me to be put on the web site)
also taken are...
*TD Leaders
*Interception Leaders
*Sack Leaders
2005 AGENDA
MARCH
6 Practices
13 Practices
20 Practices and Registation Meeting for Spring Season
27 BYE (EASTER celebration of the Lord's resurection!)
APRIL
3 Clinton Spring NIT
10 Scrimmage Week
17 Week 1
24 Week 2
MAY
1 Week 3
8 Week 4
15 Week 5
21&22 USFTL METRO CUP NIT (Clinton, MD.)
29 BYE (Memorial Day w/e)
JUNE
5 Week 6
12 Week 7
19 Week 8
25&26 AFTFL NIT (Virginia Beach, VA)
JULY
3 BYE (Independence Day w/e)
10 Week 9
17 Week 10
23&24 Clinton Summer NIT
31 B.D.F.F.L.(BullDOG)Playoffs 4v1/3v2
AUGUST
7 BullDOG CHAMPIONSHIP and All BullDOG Game
13&14 Cleveland NIT
21 Registration Meeting for Fall Season
27&28 Clinton Pre-season Tune-up NIT
SEPTEMBER
4 Scrimmage Week
11 Week 1
18 Week 2
25 Washington,DC Fall NIT
OCTOBER
2 Week 3
9 Rain out
16 Week 5
23 Rain out
30 Week 7
NOVEMBER
6 Week 8
13 Week 9
20 Make up games (see Schedule)
27 Make up games (see Schedule)
DECEMBER
3&4 State Championship Tournament (Clinton, MD.)
10&11 Regional Championship Tournaments
18 BYE
25 BYE (Christmas celebration of the birth of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!)
JANUARY 2006
1 12:00pm Rockburn Branch Park-Practice/mergers for Colts/DeStallions/Hitmen/Bombers/Outlawz
8 B.D.F.F.L. (BullDOG) Playoffs 4v1/3v2 and CHAMPIONSHIP!!!
13, 14, 15 USFTL 2005 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS (ORLANDO, FLORIDA)
BIG DOG BOWL XIV
Playoff and championship scores are as follows:
Hitmen 6 Stallions 0
Blaze 21 Tigers 0
Scorpions 44 Hitmen 0
Championship Game
Scorpions 32 Blaze 20
Games went very well with little to no problems. We enjoyed the work all Season, particularly working on the artificial turf. See you in April.
Paul Sneeringer, Chief Official
ALL BULLDOG GAME
Bite Division (Blaze,Tigers,Hitmen) 32
Bark Division (Scorpions,Colts,Outlawz) 12
RELEASES/TRADES/WAIVERS/AQUISITIONS
SCORPIONS
Release TE Carlton Wheeler,DE Donald Straughn
BLAZE
Release Darren Sleazy, Andre Rodgers, Mike Rodgers, Don Stockton, Darren Mosley, Mike Greene, Allen Autry, Ronnie Barnes.
IR Seth Haskins-reconstructive hand surgery,Mo Lezcano-torn ligaments in ankle,Jesse Cooper- torn ligaments in ankle,Brian Adkins-bulging discs in neck,(will stay on as a defensive coach but not a player),Tony Oakley-broken jaw
Aquire FA CB Troy Chapman
COLTS
Release TE Rob Elliott, CB Troy Chapman, OL Xavier Stukes
HITMEN
Release Delroy Cromer, Sherman Barcksdale, David Higgins, Shelton Colby,Piere Pope,Kenny Garnett,Barry Unger and Ken Martin.
Head Coach Taj Hutchinson, resigns to form new team in spring'06 (RAMS)
TIGERS
Aquire FA TE Carlton Wheeler
OUTLAWZ
Release WR George Hairsine, OL Cedric Dyer, OL/DL John Hirschman, NG Andre Williams
BOMBERS
Aquire FA WR George Hairsine
DE STALLIONS
Release OL Stanley Newsome, RB/LB James Houston
2005 SPRING ALL BULLDOG NOMINATIONS
The following players have been nominated for the All Bulldog Team at these given positions by majority decision. Players were chosen by skill and overall good attitude via sportsmanship for this season. If there is anyone on this list you feel should not be on it because of any type of ill-will, please send me an e-mail, stating the specific incident and when. If not, then forever hold your peace. Players were also, best chosen in these positions as listed on their teams website, thus if a player was not nominated, for a position, he might have not been listed in that position. Thats why it is important for Coaches/Captains, Team Reps or Managers to update their teams website and be specific. For example if a player is a FS, then don't list him as a DB or especially a SS. It is understood that at the beginning of the season, C/C may not have known where this player was specifically going to be, but they should by now. They can still list that player at DB if he played all positions, but his main position should still be listed. Otherwise it is difficult for C/C to make the nominations and final vote. All nominated will be allowed to participate in the All Bulldog Game.
BARK DIVISION
QB Dmitrious Dickerson (7)
QB Dave Mitchell, Colts (4)
QB Paul Councill, Outlawz (8)
RB Maurice Williams, Scorpions (14)
WR Gene McGill, Colts (88)
WR Tavon Davis, Scorpions (2)
WR Odell Torrence, Colts (84)
WR Noel Duhanley, Scorpions (2)
WR Brandon Scarborough, Scorpions (12)
TE Kelvin Collins, Scorpions (31)
TE Rob Elliott, Colts (44)
TE Matt Wells, Outlawz (34)
G Ricky Dixon, Scorpions (00)
G Ricky Mason, Colts (65)
C Kenny Monk, Scorpions (66)
C Cedric Dyer, Outlawz (64)
DL Bernard Adams, Colts (93)
DL Ken Billings, Outlawz (69)
DE Gene McGill, Colts (88)
DE Dave Royal, Scorpions (29)
LB Dominic Dinisio. Colts (40)
LB Javon Purviance, Scorpions (19)
SS Kenney Pompei, Scorpions(5)
SS Fola Soyoye, Colts (31)
SS Victor Lara, Outlawz (10)
CB Anthony Workman, Colts (21)
CB Stacey Shrophire, Colts (25)
CB/FS Alvin Booze, Scorpions (3)
FS Bob Hammer, Outlawz (42)
P Brandon Scarborough, Scorpions (12)
K Jeremy Palguta, Colts (13)
BITE DIVISION
QB Greg Proctor, Blaze (21)
QB Corey Goodwin, Hitmen (3)
QB Mike Connors, Tigers (3)
RB Kevin Moore, Tigers (23)
WR Dre Rodgers, Blaze (7)
WR Dane Campbell, Hitmen (2)
WR Robert Dennis, Tigers (18)
WR Zay Delly, Blaze (4)
WR Jordan Boyd, Hitmen (11)
TE Jason Pitts, Hitmen (88)
TE Ryan Bowman, Blaze (13)
G Steve Craddock, Blaze (66)
G Kwame Hammonds, Hitmen (56)
C Michael Eaton, Hitmen (51)
C Mark Lichaa, Blaze (3)
DL Chad Birenbaum, Blaze (37)
DL Clement Morton (78)
DE Jamal Gaines, Tigers (93)
DE Mo Lezcano, Blaze (32)
LB Chris Grant, Blaze (47)
LB Lyndon Johnson,Tigers (15)
SS Seth Haskins, Blaze (8)
SS Ray Roman, Tigers (54)
CB Corey Shaw, Blaze (23)
CB Dwight Tillman, Tigers (8)
CB/FS Mike Greene, Blaze (20)
FS Tyran Sykes, Tigers (12)
P/K Deter Munz, Tigers (7)
1st Team Overall Selections
Coach of the season: Maurice McKenzie, Tigers
M.V.P.: Maurice Williams, RB, Scorpions
QB Greg Proctor, Blaze
RB Maurice Williams, Scorpions
WR Dre Rogers, Blaze
WR Robert Dennis, Tigers
WR Gene McGill, Colts
TE Rob Elliott, Colts
G Ricky Dixon, Scorpions
G Steve Craddock, Blaze
C Kenny Monk, Scorpions
DL Chad Birenbaum, Blaze
DL Clement Morton, Tigers
DE Gene McGill, Colts
DE Dave Royal, Scorpions
MLB Dominic Dinisio, Colts
SS Seth Haskins, Blaze
CB Mike Green, Blaze
CB Alvin Booze, Scorpions
FS Kenny Pompei, Scorpions
K Jeremy Palguta, Colts
P Brandon Scarborough, Scorpions
KR Maurice Williams, Scorpions
PR Maurice Williams, Scorpions
CHALLENGE COMPETITION
*ALL PLAYERS THAT ARE INVOLVED SHOULD ARRIVE NO LATER THAN 10:30am!
-1 PLAYER REP PER TEAM, PER POSITION FOR EACH CHALLENGE
- Each competition will cost $3 per player to be paid to the officials for judging the contests or we can just have Coaches/Captains do this. Its up to you and the officials. Let me know.
- Players will go in order of how their team finished
11:00am Best QB competition (arm and legs)
*Distance throw- starting at 20y line, QB's will rotate as they will have 3 throws in which their fartest thrown ball is the one that counts. The QB who throws the farthest will receive *6 points.
*Scramble and Speed run- timed 80y obstacle course-starting at 20y line, QB's, while carrying the ball, will weave between cones spaced apart on field as they must manuever back and forth and then cross the goal line between the final 2 cones (knocking over or a cone loses 1 second, not going around a cone and player is disqualified). The QB with the best time will receive *6 points.
*Accuracy throw- starting at 50y line, each QB will have his own WR's (at least 2 with a maximum of 5), and 30 seconds as cones will be placed at the 40, 30, 20, 10 and GL for WR's to run straight across the lines and make the catch. QB's must throw in order of 40-30-20-10-GL or it will not count. The QB completing the most passes will receive *6 points.
*Best WR
Hands and Speed-cones will be set up on the field where each WR, has 30 seconds to run to that point and make the catch as his QB throws to him. The WR with the most catches will receive *6 points.
Concentration- WR stands in the middle with cones placed 10y away all around him. A ball will be beside each cone as his QB must go from cone to cone picking up each ball and throwing to him in the middle. The WR with the most catches will receive *6 points.
*Fastest man per position (100y sprint) RB, OL,TE and *WR. Winner will receive *6 points.
2005 CHALLENGE COMPETITION COMPETITORS
QB WR RB OL TE
Colts D. Mitchell G.McGill D. McDowell R.Mason R. Elliott
Scorpions D. Dickerson T. Davis M. Williams R. Dixon R. Cornish
Blaze G. Proctor A. Autry T. Oakley D. Stockton R. Bowman
Tigers M. Connor R. Dennis K. Moore C. Morton R. Williams
Hitmen C. Goodwin D. Campbell D. Johnson M. Eaton J. Pitts
Outlawz P. Councill G. Hairsine D. Williams D. Grim M. Wells
 | | Rocky Assaro July 10-December 22, 2002 |  |
Rocky Salvatore Assaro
Prayers, sympathy and love to say the least was felt by so many this weekend in the sorrow of the passing of my nephew (brothers 6 month old son, Rocky Salvatore Assaro).
Your support and understanding measured what things are about in the fragile life all of us have. Those who know my brother Sal, know he was a friendly, benevolent man whose play on the field often represented what the character of the league and football should be about. Sal as many know, has been an outstanding player over the years. His upbeat spirit, on and off the field has touched many people. During an unimaginable time such as this, theres not much you anyone can say, but I really appreciate the many consolling heartfelt gestures in giving me support over this time where life is put into perspective. If anyone has ever lost anyone close, especially one of there children you can only imagine what him and his babys mother, Tiffany Raymond are going through.
Anyone wanting to send Sal a message can at sassaro@hotmail.com
or you are certainly welcome to call at 610-521-0979(H), 215-651-5606(C) or 410-409-7004. You can also send cards to 202A Chester Pike, Ridley, Pennsylvania.
 | | Bucs sympathy card |
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