Sunday, November 29, 2009

The Autistic Sports Nerd's Blog Week 27

Hey guys, the Autistic Sports Nerd here and I had a unique Thanksgiving! Let'sget right to it.

Thanksgiving

I couldn't go home and see my family because we have three hockey games in a span of four days starting the day after Thanksgiving so I would have to spend Thanksgiving away from my family for the first time in my life.

It was a fun experience. I joined UC Hockey players Aaron Jeffrey and Matt Jimenez as we went to a Youth Hockey house. We met a UC Professor, his wife,a bunch of their relatives, and three young youth hockey players.

Let's just say tradition changed. Thanksgiving is usually about the three F's: Family, food, and Football. This time, it was about New friends, teammates, food,and HOCKEY!! That's right. The youth kids, Jeffrey, Jimenez,and I played hockey in their driveway.The game got so intense, we moved it to the middle of the street. I was the net-keeper for our team which was good practice because I'm the goalie for the Team Autism Floor Hockey Team at Utica College.

Those kids were really good.They handled the puck well and took great shots. *cough* I stopped two Aaron Jeffrey wrist shots. *cough*

Unfortunately he, and the youth hockey players lit me up after that. Jimenez played for our team. We lost 11-9. Those kids play with a lot of energy.

A great meal and a great dessert. We exchanged e-mails then left to go to a friend of Jimenez's place. We had another meal, another dessert, and ANOTHER HOCKEY GAME! This time it was knee hockey in the basement.

There's Ice Hockey, Roller Hockey, Floor Hockey, Field Hockey, Scooter Hockey, Street Hockey, but now KNEE HOCKEY!!?? Goalies had to play on their knees due to the small net size while forwards play on their feet. It was the three UC Hockey member vs. two more youth kids. The net of the Youth team was extremely tiny so it was even competition. I was once again in net, and it was a nightmare. The kids kept scoring on me. My two hockey teammates were chirping me. The kids kept winning one on three battles in front of our net. Coach Heenan would be ashamed of us. The second group of Youth Hockey kids won the game.

We had a great time. It was fun playing with the youth hockey kids and meeting new families. With the exception of the Packers and Cowboys winning, the Giants getting crushed in Denver, and March of the Wooden Soldiers not being on TV, this was a great Thanksgiving. It was really unique. I'm doing this agin next year.

UC Hockey:

On Friday Night, the UC Hockey team lost to Potsdam 6-3 at the Aud. I reunited with both sets of families since they always go to the games. The kids were sad when they couldn't go in the locker-room after the game. Usually no one is allowed in after a tough loss. I promised the kids that UC will beat Potsdam the next night and that they would be able to go in the locker rooms to see the players. It sounds silly since I'm just a video coordinator, I have no control over the outcome of the game.

The next night came and we had our rematch with Potsdam. A goal by Scott Birnstill gave us a 1-0 lead in the second but Potsdam came back and ties us up by the second intermission. Then, late in the third, Eric Peterson scored a Power-Play goal to give us the lead and we hung on to win 2-1. I saw both families once again and they were delighted to be in the locker room after the game. The locker-room was crowded with kids, adults, and players. Everyone was happy and relieved. This was a bounce-back and a feel-good win. Gary Heenan, Mike Levine, Wieman, and Noyes were all proud of their players.

Locker room Dialogue:

Fan: Hey, are you Aaron Jeffrey?
AJ: Oh no, he's over there.
Fan: Thanks!
AJ: No Problem!
*Fan goes to Jeffrey*
AJ: *fist pumps* Yes!!

I'm the Autistic Sports Nerd, Happy Thanksgiving everybody!!

An Autistic Sports Nerd Thanksgiving Special-Top 13 things to be Thankful for

An Autistic Sports Nerd Thanksgiving Special-Top 13 things to be Thankful for
Hey guys! The Autistic Sports Nerd here, and I am counting down the top 13 things I am most thankful for. Some are not sports related,but more about my personal life.Let's get right to it. Why top 13 instead of top 10? Because top 13 is more unique.

I'll post them on here but will give you the link to my blog too. I will have a new blog post up later tonight about my Thanksgiving experience and have a new Autism Blog post up too. I'll let you guys know when they are up via status and note comment. I'll insert the links in here when they are up so I won't tag the same people four times.

#13

YouTube. I am thankful to YouTube because I can listen to my favorite music by putting the Youtube music videos in my favorite list. That's why I never need to waste money on an IPod. Also, I get to watch a lot of episodes from my favorite childhood shows and view highlights of sporting events. Thanks YouTube!

#12

New York Knicks 1999 Playoff Run. Wow! What an incredible run that was. The Knicks were the #8 seed in lockout-shortened season. In the first round, the Knicks beat the Heat in the deciding Game 5 thanks to Allan Houston nailing a bucket to put the Knicks up by one with less than a second to go in the game. I was jumping up and down in my grandfather's house when he hit that shot. After sweeping the Hawks in the Second Round, there was Game three at the Garden against the Pacers when Larry Johnson hit that four point play. When that happened, I was going nuts and literally screaming in my room. That was stunning. The Knicks fell short in the NBA Finals in five games out of a best of Seven series to the Spurs. It was still an incredible run. Thanks Knicks!!

#11

Whiffleball games. Whiffleball is a huge sport in the O'Hagan family. During our BBQ's in Long Island, we always have a game consisting of my dad, brother, uncles, and cousins. We usually play our games late in the afternoon after we eat. The games are always exciting. Our dads have played this game since they were teenagers in the 70's so this tradition has lasted more than a generation. Thanks guys!!

#10

New York Giants 2007 Super Bowl run. It was so shocking. The Giants dropped their first two games of the season but then they buckled down. They played an epic game against the Patriots the last game of the season at the Meadowlands despite it not being a meaningful game in the standings. It helped them in the playoffs as they got past the Bucs, upset the Cowboys, and won an epic overtime game over the Packers at Lambeau Field. All road victories. The Giants got their rematch with the Patriots in the Super Bowl at Arizona. I remember screaming for joy when Eli got out of that sack. "That's a catch, that's a catch!!" Eli lobbed it to Plaxico in the end-zone and the Giants pulled off an epic upset to win the Super Bowl. Thanks Giants!!

#9

New York Yankees. Just the New York Yankees and their history in general. It has been a joy watching this team be consistently competitive, only missing the playoffs one single season out of the 15 years of being a Yankee fan. It was a magical October watching the Yankees bring #27 home. I also had the honor of watching a Yankee game from the Press Box and meeting with Yankee management. I am thrilled that I have seen so many Yankee games in person including one in Baltimore. Thanks Yankees!

#8

New York Rangers 1994. I wasn't a hardcore Ranger fan at the time but the Rangers winning the cup in 1994 met so much for my mom, dad, uncles, aunts, cousins, etc. because they waited so long for the Rangers to win the Cup. The Rangers are the one team that everybody from both sides of my family cheer for. I have seen highlights and watched the taped version of those playoff games, and let me tell you, it wasn't easy. Thanks Rangers!

#7

Jon Starr. Jon Starr was a goalie for the Utica College Hockey team who graduated last year. It was he who suggested I write a blog and that's how not only my sports blog, but how my Autism blog came to be. Thanks Jon Starr!

#6

Utica College.I have had ups and downs since I set foot on campus, but Utica College has been a great experience for me.I have made plenty of friends, got to know new people from other cultures, and had friend hangouts for the first time. This is a very friendly campus. Thank you Utica College!

#5

Pool Pals. Working with Autistic and Down Syndrome kids has been a huge honor. I met kids like me and even got to know kids of another disability and realize they act no different than any non-disabled type people. Swimming with those kids is arguably the most fun I had on campus. I hope to do this as a career. Thanks Pool Pals!!

#4

Living in America. I am thankful that I live in a free country where we have freedom to choose our leaders, and since I am a Journalism Major, the freedom of speech and freedom to write what you want. Thank you America!

#3

The UC Hockey Team. Aaron Jeffrey recruited me to the team during my freshman year and it has been a great experience! Meeting new friends, hanging out with them, traveling to different parts of the Northeast with them, it has been phenomenal. A lot of non-hockey players don't get the opportunity to watch their team play so I'm glad I get to see every UC Hockey game. I remember before my first day on campus, I wanted some role with the team. (Like a beat writer) But thanks to Jeffrey, I'm actually a part of the team. It's always fun being around the guys whether it's pre-game, post-game, team-meals, cafeteria, parties etc. Thank you UC Hockey!!

#2

Discovering I was Autistic. That night during the first semester of of college, I took the news pretty hard. But there is a bright spot to it. It motivated me to start the Autism Awareness Club, and do a whole lot of volunteer work. I also now have a passion for getting to know about other disabilities and work with people who have Autism and other disabilities. I also get to relate to my youngest brother more. Since the market for sports writers is currently very thin, my career may involve working with people with disabilities. Thanks to my fellow Autistic Paul who used to work at the cafeteria, for letting me know about aspergers (high-functioning Autism) so I could do research and found out for sure.

#1

My family. Without them, there wouldn't be me. Plus, I have a lot of relatives who are strong on humor, love to play whiffleball, love sports,and love each other. It's always fun hanging out with my family whether it's immediate family, or other relatives. You guys are the only people I have known consistently throughout my lives. Thank you guys. I love you all!

Monday, November 16, 2009

The Autistic Sports Nerd's Blog Week 25

Hey guys! It's 1:06 am on a school night as I am typing this. It's just been a weird, emotional day and night. Let's get into it.

NFL

Unbelievable Colts/Patriots Game. Last time I checked, the Patriots were up 31-14 so I thought it was game over. I was stunned when I read my friend's facebook status that the Colts came back and won 35-34 to remain undefeated. Apparently Bill Belichick thought it was a smart idea to go for it on 4th and 2 on their own 28 while up by 6 late in the game. Belichick, that wasn't a smart idea. It's great that you have guts but you have to use your head at the same time. A rare mistake by an otherwise great coach.

The Saints also remain undefeated by just barely hanging on against the lowly Rams in St. Louis. I would make a weekly Rams' joke this week but they showed heart by battling New Orelans tough so I will save it.

The Lions lose to the Vikings in blowout fashion. Come on Lions, just one win in a season and a half isn't going to cut it. Win some games before the fans of Detroit riot.

The Jets continue to reel as they lose to the Jaguars 24-22 at Giants' Stadium. It's really frustrating because I am rooting for the Jets to have a great season. The Giants and Jets both got off to really hot starts but now they are both plummeting and are currently out of playoff position. Big game for the Giants next week as they play the Falcons in the battle for the #6 seed in the NFC. The Game is at Giants' Stadium but that may not be an advantage for the G-Men. Between the Giants and the Falcons, the road team has won the last 12 games. Plus, the Giants have historically been a bad team after the bye.

Luckily for the G-Men, the Packers upset the Cowboys at Lambeu Field. Big win for the Packers as they are in the thick of the NFC Playoff race as well. The Eagles also lose against the Chargers in San Diego as it came down to the final play.

The Broncos are struggling as they lose a game to the lowly Redskins in DC. The Redskins may no longer be a charity case. Redskins, if you ever change your mind again, can you jump to the NBA and give the Knicks a victory, pretty please with sugar on top? Team Autism is 0-4 in intramural basketball, perhaps you guys can play us in an intramural game? You guys would REALLY donate to a good cause.

NBA

In the past, I have made fun of the Lions, Redskins, Maple Leafs, Rams, you name it! AJ O'Hagan, I apologize but now I must make fun of the Knicks. 1-9!!!!???? Man, that is atrocious. Team Autism Basketball team, never mind the Redskins, play the Knicks! Autism may get it's first victory if that scenario happens!!

In all seriousness, I am a huge fan of Team Autism because I am the Autistic Sports Nerd, and I am Autistic. I'll never make fun of you guys. Team Autism will get at least one victory before the academic year is over. I just know it. Congrats on winning the Whiffleball Championship last SPring and good luck in the Volleyball and Wallyball tournaments. It's going to be a huge honor writing the Sports and Autism Cross Over blog in a Couple of Weeks.

Utica College:

Utica College Men's and Woman's basketball both win their season openers at home against Potsdam as part of a double header last Saturday. UC Men's Hockey beat Western New England 12-1 at the AUD last Friday but lost the next night on the road to #2 ranked Oswego Lakers 3-2.

I would like to dedicate this blog post to my great-grandmother, Nanny. Rest in Peace Nanny. Without you, none of this would be possible. Thank you so much! I love you Nanny.....

Monday, November 9, 2009

The Autistic Sports Nerd's Blog Week 24

Hey guys, this is the Autistic Sports Nerd and we are in the 24th edition of this blog! Let's get right into it.

World Series:

The Yankees are WORLD CHAMPIONS!! As I predicted, the Yankees defeated the Phillies in six games to win their 27th World Series Championship and their first since 2000. What a way to open up the new Stadium.

We can FINALLY say that Alex Rodriguez is a true Yankee. No one can ever doubt him anymore. I'm really glad the Yankees won it at home, in the Bronx, in front of their fans. It felt like the late 1990's all over again with Pettitte getting the win, pitching to Posada as well as Mariano Rivera getting the save and Derek Jeter providing the clutch hits.

Congratulations to Hideki Matsui for being named the World Series' Most Valuable Player. Matsui has been on this team for seven seasons. This may be his final year in the Bronx. Same goes for Damon.

It would be great if the Yankees could keep both Damon and Matsui but the Yankees can't afford too many DH type guys. They need outfielders. Realistically, I think only one of them can stay. Damon could at least still play in the outfield so Matsui's career with the Yankees may be over unfortunately. If it does end, what a great way to end it. Matsui has always been one of the most dependable hitters with runners in scoring position. Thank you Matsui!!

Thank you Yankees!! #27 is here after a nine year wait. I heard the parade went great and I can't wait to get the DVD. Congratulations to the New York Yankees and my fellow Yankees' fans.

NFL

Tough, gut-wrenching game for the Giants. Giving up the last second Touchdown to the Chargers and now they are on a four game losing streak and currently out of a playoff spot. The Giants have a bye week next week so hopefully they use this time to regroup. The Giants have historically never been a good team playing after a bye week.

The Colts remain undefeated after winning a close one against the Texans. The Patriots reclaim their spot in first place in the AFC East. It's safe to say that the Patriots are back!! The Cowboys defeated the Eagles so now they are in sole possession of first place in the NFC East.

The Saints pull off another big comeback at home against the Panthers so they are still undefeated.

The Chiefs release Larry Johnson.

NBA

The Lakers, Nuggets, and Celtics are rolling.

The Knicks.........are 1-7. I don't know what to say. It looks like March has come early this year. When does Baseball Season start?

UC Hockey:

WOW!! The Utica College Hockey team defeats the Number 2 ranked Defending National Champion Neumann University. This is argumentatively the biggest win this program has had in years. The Pioneers start off the season 1-0-1. This should be an exciting year for the Pioneers. It was also Pink the Rink night as the Pioneers wore pink Jerseys and the fans wore pink shirts. 3,700 + came to the game. It was a great night!!

The UC Women's Hockey team played their Pink the Rink game just before ours and they also won so it was a great night for the Pioneers. The Theta Phi Alpha Sorority helped make Pink the Rink Night possible.

Oh Yeah, The Utica College Men's Hockey team has received 18 votes in the latest polls.

I'm the Autistic Sports Nerd, have a good night guys!!

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

The Autistic Sports Nerd' Blog Week 23

Hey guys! This is the Autistic Sports Nerd and this is the 23rd time I have posted a blog. I decided to sneak this in while doing research for my Reporting Multi-Media Project. It's really quiet here on the second floor in the library so this gives me an advantage. Let's get to it:

World Series:

Cliff Lee is the reason why the Yankees haven't earned their 27th World Series title, at least not yet. He was dominating in Game 1, only giving up one run which was unearned, as he went the distance to pitch a complete game and got the win. He wasn't as sharp in Game 5 but he pitched well enough to earn the victory and send the series back to the Bronx where the Yankees have a 3-2 lead.

I had a fun time watching Game 3 because I was at a Halloween party with my friends as we watched the Yankees rally and win. A-Rod's bat is starting to heat up which is a good sign for the Yankees.

This is going to be a huge challenge for the Yankees to get this one win in two opportunities. Although the remainder of the series will be played in the Bronx, they are sending Andy Pettitte to the mound on three days rest. CC may be able to pull them off because of his experience and size but this is new for Pettitte. We'll see how he responds.

Ryan Howard is slumping. If he heats up, it will be a huge boost for the Phillies. Pedro is most likely going for the Phils in Game 6. The Yankees have not been this close to bringing #27 home since they were one win away from doing it back in 2001.

The Bronx is now burning. The drama continues.

NFL

I promise, no Oakland Raiders Bye Week jokes this week. Man, the Giants got destroyed in Philly. The Giants are reeling. They have not gotten their running game going at all.

The Saints are still undefeated as well as the Colts. The Rams finally get a win by beating the Lions. The Cowboys dominated the Seahawks.

Brett Favre, returned to his old stomping grounds, Lambeu Field. He was showered with boos as he ran onto the field. Packer fans booed him since they felt he betrayed Green Bay and went to the Vikings. I boo him because I can't let go of the way he invaded my television during the summer of 2008. Unfortunately for Green Bay, Favre picked Green Bay apart as the Vikings sweep the season series over the Packers. The Vikings are looking really dangerous.

NBA

Come on Knicks! I always have high hopes for you guys that you will turn it around. Every October it's, "The Knicks will be better this year, we'll make the playoffs." Every March it's, "Oh man, we are fading. We are out of the playoff picture, at least baseball season is coming soon!" The Knicks finally get a win by defeating the New Orleans Hornets after dropping their first three games, two of them in overtime sessions. Come on Knicks, make my dream come true and be relevant this season.

NHL

Congratulations to New York Rangers' defenseman, Michael Del Zotto for being named the NHL Rookie of the Month. The Rangers have great young talent so the future looks bright.

Coach Heenan, since I'm being jolly this week, no Toronto Maple Leafs jokes this week.

UC Hockey:

What an epic game that took place on Friday against Neumann University at the AUD. Eric Peterson scores his first collegiate goal to put us up 1-0. Mat Fitzgibbons scored the second goal to put us up 2-0. Neumann scored 4 unanswered goals in the third period to take a 4-2 lead. with under 8 minutes left, Brian Gibbons scored a power play goal to cut the deficit to 4-3.

Under one minute left, the goalie is pulled. Trailing by a goal, the crowd started to file out. 3 seconds to go, the face-off in Neumann's zone. The face-off won by the Pioneers and Tim Coffman's wrist shot goes into the net with less than one second remaining. The game was tied. The crowd exploded. The place went nuts! "Where are you going, get back in your fucking seats!" I screamed. Very unprofessional behavior in the Press Box but no one heard me since the place was so loud. After killing off a five minute major in overtime, the game ended in a 4-4 tie. The Pioneers forced a tie against the second ranked team in the nation coming off of a National Championship year.

This was Mike Levine's first game back with the Pioneers since his playing days. He is now our Assistant Coach. Alex Dawes, younger brother of Neumann Head Coach and our former Assistant Coach Dominick Dawes, is now my partner in the Video department for the team. The season has finally begun.

Well, I better get back to doing research. I'm the Autistic Sports Nerd, have a good night guys!!