A Night at the Barn

I had a great Valentines gift on Tuesday. My wife won tickets to see the Golden Gophers play the Buckeyes. It was an absolutely wonderful evening. The only thing that would have made it better would have been a Gopher win. Alas the Sullinger led Buckeyes were too much for the Gophers.

Williams Arena is a magical place to watch basketball. The atmosphere, the fans the history of the building. Despite losing the game it was a true pleasure to enjoy a game in one of the greatest college sports venues in the world.

If you have never been to a basketball game in Williams Arena (The Barn) you are missing a great experience. It takes you back to a bygone era when college basketball was king of the court. A time when life and college was simpler. Hanging from the rafters are banners listing Big Ten Championships from previous years. Also hanging from the rafters are names of some of the college greats who graced the hardwood with their sneakers.

At The Barn it is Basketball, not played for money but for pride of the school and bragging rites of the conference. It is Basketball played with passion for the game and a love for competition. Whether the Gophers win or lose being able to enjoy the venue allows an alumni like me to bleed maroon and gold.

GO GOPHERS!!

It Is Over

The NFL season has come to a dramatic end with the New York Giants defeating the New England Patriots 21 - 17 in Super Bowl XLVI. It was a very good game but in unusual fashion the Patriots receivers dropped a few easy passes late in the game that could have easily changed the outcome.

Tom Brady could not lead the Patriots on a final winning drive as he had done many times before. Instead it was Eli Manning and the Giants who scored with 1 minute left to take the lead.

Most of the recent Super Bowls have been exciting and close games. Let's hope this trend continues. Congratulations to the Giants. Good luck next year to the Patriots.

Maybe one day those Vikings can actually get back to and win the big game.

The Big Game

It is Super Bowl time again. For leaders all over the world it is an opportunity to relax and enjoy the biggest game of the season for the NFL. But it isn't just about the game it is also about the experience.

In Indianapolis they have what is called the NFL experience for the fans to enjoy some activities. You don't have to be in Indianapolis to enjoy the NFL experience. Create the atmosphere wherever you enjoy the game.

Today take some time out of your busy leadership week to enjoy the Patriots and Giants in Super Bowl XLVI. If you can't go to the big game then create the atmosphere at your home. Here are some suggestions to give yourself the the ultimate at home Super Bowl experience.

• Big screen high definition television - You have to make sure it looks like you are there.
• Decorations - Decorate your house in the colors of your favorite team.
• Food and Beverages - Make sure you have ample supply of your favorite snacks and beverages. If you are making a meal make something like sloppy joes or chili.
• Apparel - Make sure you dress in your teams colors and wear a jersey of your favorite player.
• Interruptions - Make sure once the game starts you avoid all interruptions. Don't answer the phone unless it is your friend trash talking.

Enjoy the game!