This One Time, At Band Camp

The Man in the Band, Greg Scruggs (photo via Greg Scruggs)

The famous line from American Pie will live on forever in our minds. But instead of picturing that squeaky little redhead (played by Alyson Hannigan), picture for a moment a 6-foot-3, 284lb guy padded up in a Seahawks uniform. Doesn’t conjure up quite the same image now, does it?

Meet Greg Scruggs, Defensive End for the Seattle Seahawks and former band nerd. Or band geek. Or breakout star athlete who just so happened to be in the band? Yeah, that’s it.

Together we decided to debunk the myth of band geeks once and for all. Sure, there are geeks who play instruments for fun, even on the weekends when there’s a raging house party next door. But there are also nerdy athletes, even Olympians.

“My ‘band thing’ is really my only hidden talent. The big myth that everybody in the band is a geek – that’s kind of a socially created myth,” says Scruggs. “People fail to realize that someone might play the flute, clarinet or the drums, but that doesn’t change who they are. I knew early on if I was going to be in the band, I was going to bring ‘cool’ to the band,” Scruggs laughs.

“I was unique and different because being in the band was something I did to have fun, to release stress and create emotion. I still played basketball, got recruited in college [for football] and was still considered ‘cool’ by others. My band director and I singlehandedly changed the direction of our program – we were strictly a competition band when I started, but then we decided we wanted to hype and entertain the crowd. My high school band to this day is a show band – people don’t look at them as nerds or geeks. I wasn’t the brightest – to this day I can’t read music. I went out there and made it fun. I was the only black kid in my band – there were only 37 minorities out of 1500 in my school, and that made me stick out even more. It gave me a determination to dispel that rumor about band geeks. I think it’s ridiculous. If people stepped away from this socially perceived myth, they’d realize people in the band are actually pretty cool,” Scruggs says.

But surely you can understand why some folks draw the parallel between bands and geeks, I asked?

Seattle Seahawks DE, Greg Scruggs (photo via Greg Scruggs)

“Take Dan Lewis, class president of my high school for example,” Scruggs explains. “He was the biggest comedian in school and he was in the marching band. You don’t become class president if you’re not cool or popular, do you?” Scruggs counters. “He made everybody crack up and they always wanted to be around him, and he was in the band.”

Point taken. What about a nerdy athlete, surely you know a few?

“Luke Kuechly,” Scruggs says laughing.

“People see him on the field and he’s this dominant football player, but in school he walked around with his pants a little too high. He was always studying, all he cared about was school – he was a dork – he didn’t go out, didn’t party, but people see him on the football field and assume he’s got this cool factor,” Scruggs says.

Did you just call Kuechly, the ninth overall pick and linebacker for the Carolina Panthers, a dork? “He’s younger than me so I can talk about him like that,” Scruggs laughs. “He’s cool but sports don’t make you cool just like an instrument doesn’t make you a nerd, you know?”

Speaking of cool dudes that play instruments, it seems the drummer from John Mayer’s band, Steve Jordan, is at the top of Scruggs’ list.

“I listen to all kinds of music. To say I have a favorite drummer is tough. I listen to everything from Marilyn Manson, which is like the south pole of music, to Waka Flocka [Flame], the north pole. I guess if you go east, I really like Zac Brown Band and Jason Aldean, and west I’d go with Darius Rucker or pop like John Mayer,” Scruggs says of his musical compass. Scruggs admits he’s also big into classical music like Stevie Wonder and just downloaded James Brown #1 hits on his iPod a few days ago.

Scruggs, born in 1990 and barely of drinking age, admits he likes musical talent that’s “been around for a while.”

The 6-foot-3 defensive end didn’t play football until his senior year in high school (Xavier High School in Cincinnati), but somehow found his way onto a Division 1 football team (Louisville) after graduating high school. People train their whole lives just for the chance to play football at a big level, how on earth were you even on anyone’s radar, I asked him? “It was a process. My high school coach played a huge role and luckily the scouts came. I blossomed my junior year [college] thanks to my coach. Coach Hurtt molded me into this player and set me out to go train, working on my explosiveness and things like that. I worked hard, let it all go and it was out of my hands. That doesn’t take away from those that have trained their whole lives – it was mostly a blessing, but it was hard work, training, and coaching,” Scruggs admits.

If band members aren’t cool, then why are they wearing sunglasses? Answer THAT, America!

I’ve talked to a lot of players that say their skill is a blessing, I told him. Do you really think it is?

“Well, my oldest brother isn’t nearly as athletic as I am,” he laughs. “I think it’s an ability I was blessed with since it doesn’t necessarily run in the family.”

So you were a late bloomer in high school as far as getting on the football field, and you were the Seahawks final selection in the 2012 draft. Is the motto it’s better late than never part of your everyday mantra, I asked him?

“It’s definitely gratifying considering I didn’t even play football until I was a senior in high school, so I’m grateful to have been picked. There were 10,000 eligible players this year and only around 200 were picked, so I’d say I’m in pretty good company. Not only to get picked, but to play and lead the team in sacks in preseason. Am I a 7th round talent? I don’t think so. To go in the 7th made me a little angry, but I knew it was a blessing. I was just waiting around all day because I didn’t know if or when I’d get called. I could have been playing the drums or Call of Duty instead of being glued to the TV all day,” Scruggs jokes.

As for Scruggs, he’s still playing on the field, but hasn’t forgotten his drummer roots. “You never forget how to play, I still do what I can. The Seahawks have a band and I played with them once. That was pretty cool,” he says.

So next time you want to pick on someone in the band, remember the name Greg Scruggs. And then go buy yourself one of those “I’m in the band” t-shirts and wear it with pride.

Be sure to follow this band stud on Twitter: @G_Scruggs.

This post is part of The Blonde Side’s Momentum Challenge series to interview one active player from all 32 NFL Teams within the short time frame of 34 days. Greg Scruggs and his non-geek factor cross the Seattle Seahawks off the list.

To see this full article in its original format, check out CBS Man Cave Daily.

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Corey Peters Helps Kids Tackle Cancer

Corey Peters helping at The Rally Foundation (photo via The Rally Foundation)

Already named the 2012 NFC South Champs, the Atlanta Falcons are on a roll. Tied alongside the Houston Texans for the best record in the NFL (11-1), the Falcons may very well make their way to New Orleans on February 3rd for Super Bowl XLVII.

Many of these guys in the NFL realize it’s not only hard work on the field that pays off; it’s the hard work and dedication off the field that’s just as important. Corey Peters, defensive tackle for the Atlanta Falcons, takes just as much pride in his charity work with young kids as he does in his hard-hitting stats.

Peters, who signed his NFL contract on his birthday (June 8, 2010), is an avid supporter of Rally Foundation, a nonprofit, which started in a neighborhood driveway and has now found a place on the NFL stage. Rally Foundation has one mission: to raise money for childhood cancer research through grassroots initiatives.

“Signing my contract on my birthday was the realization of a dream come true. I’ve been incredibly blessed and I couldn’t be happier with this organization and the opportunities they’ve provided me. I won’t take that for granted for one second,” Peters says.

One of those opportunities is not only a starting position on the Falcons star-studded roster, but the chance to be part of organizations like Rally Foundation. You can look at Peters by the numbers and surely be impressed. He’s been in the league for three years. He’s 24 and has five tackles this season with a total of 64 in his NFL career to date. The University of Kentucky graduate wears #91, weighs 305lbs (on a good day) and has played in 37 games, most of which he’s started. Although he’s immensely proud of those numbers, there are other numbers he wanted to talk about during our interview – numbers that go well beyond tackles and touchdowns.

Click here to find out how you can help.

“The Rally Foundation is dedicated to raising money for cancer research for children – childhood cancer is the #1 killer in kids these days. I think it’s really important to help,” Peters says. According to the foundation’s website, one in every 330 Americans develop cancer before the age of twenty-one. On average, about 46 children are diagnosed with cancer every school day in the United States. On average, one in every four elementary schools has a child with cancer and the average high school has two students who are current or former cancer patients, according to the website’s FAQ’s.

“The thing that’s really important is that children’s cancer and adult cancer are two separate things – the research done for a type of cancer an adult would have is completely different than what a child would have; they don’t cross over. This particular charity only focuses on the kids,” Peters says about its personal appeal to him.

Peters, who began working with Rally back in June, currently serves as honorary chair for the spring fashion show, Rally On the Runway, which features girls that have fought or are fighting cancer. “I am a spokesperson in the Atlanta area [where the charity started]. It’s not in every city yet, but hopefully in the next few years we’ll have a spokesperson in each city and get the message out there,” Peters explains.

“These kids are just so special. They are so strong – so much stronger than they have to be at that age. They are the real heroes dealing with the hand they were dealt,” Peters says. “They are the pure of the pure and they don’t deserve any of this. Seeing their parents being strong for their kids – the foundation has done a great job and made a humongous stride to try and prevent future kids from having to go through this.”

When it comes to athletes giving back, Peters knows firsthand why it’s so important to pay it forward. “Nobody gets to where they are without help – that’s in anything you do in life, whether you’re an athlete or in a regular job. It’s always important to remember that. I’ve had my parents, teachers and coaches who have really given their time for free, just for the love of it. When you’re blessed with a platform as large as the NFL, I think it’s your responsibility to pay it forward. I believe God blesses everyone with a certain number of talents and it’s up to us to use them,” Peters says.

“I’m growing everyday, trying to do the right thing and lead by example,” Peters says of his efforts with Rally Foundation.

“These kids are so sweet and have such a pure enthusiasm. This is the least I could do to spend my time doing everything I can to put a smile on their faces. They always put a smile on my face, now it’s my turn,” Peters admits. “I get a whole new perspective on life, and I realize what I’m going through is really nothing.”

Speaking of tough, I imagine keeping this season’s record-setting pace has been a task. “It’s a long season and we’re in a good place right now. We just have to finish strong and hopefully make a good run at it in the playoffs,” Peters says.As for the toughest game(s) left on the schedule? “ The defending champs [the Giants] will always be tough,” Peters says of next week’s home matchup against Eli and the gang.

Aside from getting his playoff game face ready and volunteering with some of the best kids in all of Atlanta, Peters admits to taking some time and sleeping in on his days off when he can. He also admits his guilty pleasures when it comes to reality TV are The Real World and Bad Girls Club. “It’s bad TV but it’s interesting. It’s definitely dramaful,” Peters laughs.

When it comes to reality shows, Peters can’t help but watch teammate Kroy Biermann, in his Real Housewives of Atlanta cameos on Bravo. Biermann is married to Kim, who stars on the show and the guys horse around with him from time to time in the locker room. “There’s a fair amount of jokes but he doesn’t get it too bad. It could be worse,” Peters admits. “He’s a good guy, and they seem like they really enjoy each other. I watch it every week, mainly because he’s on it, but I used to watch it before then.”

Follow Corey Peters on Twitter.

This post is part of The Blonde Side’s Momentum Challenge series to interview one active player from all 32 NFL Teams within the short time frame of 34 days. Corey Peters and his helpful heart crosses the Atlanta Falcons off the list.

To see this full article in its original format, check out CBS Man Cave Daily.

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Hello Kitty

Antonio Garay’s Hello Kitty Smart Car (photo via Garay)

Hello Kitty has been good to Antonio Garay.

Hello Kitty! Two words you’d never think would describe an NFL player. Especially one weighing more than 320lbs, but those are two fitting words that accurately describe Antonio Garay (or at least his jokester personality), defensive tackle for the San Diego Chargers.

It took everything in my power not to take the easy way out of this article and just post a photo essay on Garay because to be honest [Editor’s note — We had no such qualms. Enjoy!], I’m not sure words, even my words, can do this guy’s personality justice, but here goes.

Before our interview I was warned that Garay was a character. He even owned a Hello Kitty smart car was the word on the street, and it seemed overpoweringly appropriate to start the interview there. “I got it like that from the dealership. I’m just a guy with a good sense of humor. I don’t take life too seriously; I take it for what it’s worth. I think everyone should have a good time, and laugh a little more. I try to do my part and make everyone laugh,” Garay says.

I’m all for jokes, but an automobile just for laughs? What about a more economically savvy YouTube video instead?

“I went to the Mercedes Benz dealership here in San Diego last September, and I told them I wanted a smart car, and as a joke they brought me the Hello Kitty car. It was kind of a joke when they drove it out, but I told them it was perfect. At that point I didn’t know a whole lot about Hello Kitty, but I said, ‘I’ll take it.’ And I’ve been driving it ever since,” laughs Garay.

Before you start thinking a 6-foot-4-football player/former college wrestler is riding dirty in a pink Hello Kitty car, think again. “It’s not pink,” Garay quickly corrected me.

“None of my teammates make fun of me about it. Some were taken back, but I’m bigger than a lot of the guys, so they don’t say much. A couple thought I was a genius for getting that car,” Garay adds without confirming or denying if he’s referencing the “chick magnet” affects of the car.

“I even have a New Era baseball cap with Hello Kitty on it,” Garay adds. “Women give me random Hello Kitty gifts,” he trails off. “And I’ll just leave it at that.”

Antonio Garay’s Hello Kitty Smart Car (photo via Garay)

“I have two smart cars. The other is all black with blacked out windows, a red racing stripe, and my number on the wheels. I also have an off road jeep wrangler. All my cars are fun cars – the doors come off, the tops come off. I have a bunch of those accessories you don’t need; like a cruise ship boat horn and a PA system,” Garay says. “They are fun things to have in your vehicle when you’re driving. Everyone wants to borrow it, drive it or just sit in it. Smart cars are a lot bigger than people actually think, especially the front seat. The Hello Kitty car kind of speaks for itself, but the other one is the tougher version. Instead of the smart car emblem, it has my initial ‘G’ on front, all leather seats with red stitching, and surround sound” Garay explains adding that black and red were his high school colors.

Having just turned 33 at the end of November, I told Garay how rare (and impressed I was) at his off the cuff and seemingly “random” personality. “What’s random about it?” he asked. I hated to admit it, but I guess I wasn’t used to so much personality, especially from one of the “older” guys. Garay, now in his 6th NFL season, is comfortable with his play on the field and the man he is off the field — a rare combo in professional sports.

“Pound for pound, I’m probably one of the bigger jokesters on the team. Contrary to what people believe, football doesn’t define the guys that play the sport. A lot of people make their judgments based on what they see and hear on ESPN or Twitter. That’s why I tell people to have fun while playing football. It is your job, but have fun doing your job. If you’re serious 24/7 it’s pretty exhausting and that shows up in your play,” Garay says from firsthand experience. “I know when I’ve gotten serious, my play isn’t necessarily the best. The more confident, laid-back and fun, allows athletes to have more to their edge, almost that x factor.”

I hate to quote Wikipedia, but I felt compelled to ask about the claim that he’s “notable for outrageous hairstyles.” “I don’t really let the media get into it, but there is always a background story to my haircuts. A couple weeks after Hurricane Sandy I did a Jersey Strong haircut. The word ‘strong’ was across the back of my head and inside the O it had the state of New Jersey. I’m from NJ, so I had to represent,” Garay explains.

Garay’s Two-Face haircut (photo via Garay)

As for crazy hairstyles, “I have one right now. It’s Two-Face – that’s the theme. The left side is normal with a beard and standard taper cut and the right is completely designed in black and turquoise and my beard is designed out. Contrary to popular belief I don’t do my hairstyles to stand out,” adds Garay.

While the Hello Kitty car was more for comedic value and proof of not taking himself too seriously, the big guy really does have a soft side to him. “I remember back when football was fun – when it was pure and we just played to play. That’s why I brought back some of the hairstyles from my high school days. I met a kid, Timmy, who was going through treatments. When I first met him he had a [hair] design in mind and I told him I would do it. He also asked me to get him a sack – that was tough, but I did it,” Garay says proudly. “After that I changed it up a bit the following week and then people expected me to do it every week. That’s kind of how that whole story played out.”

“As far as the crazy hairstyles, it’s more of a self-motivation thing. If you do something crazy, you better play good. You don’t do something like that to play lousy, or for people not to know you’re out there. It started with Timmy, but it’s brought it to a different level of play,” Garay explains.

“I have a pretty solid belief to help your community and establish relationships with teammates off the field and outside the locker room. I think everything carries over. If guys support each other in their personal charities, it creates a relationship and helps with camaraderie,” Garay says. “In my personal opinion, if guys are supporting each other, it’s easier to have that person’s back when you’re playing on the field, as minor as that might sound. I’m not really a big birthday person but guys that came up and wished me a happy birthday – something that minor goes a long way. When I play, I don’t just play for myself but I play for my teammate and kids like Timmy. Maybe that’s why I try to be funny – some people don’t think I am. My mom thinks I’m pretty great,” he adds laughing.

Be sure to follow Garay’s Hello Kitty escapades and hairstyles on Twitter. His bio says he’s located in the San Diego Zoo, if that’s any indication how much of a goofball this guy is.

See the rest of the photos in Antonio’s gallery! And for what it’s worth, Garay is not the first NFL player I’ve had smart car chats with. Perhaps they should go cruising around together sometime.This post is part of The Blonde Side’s Momentum Challenge series to interview one active player from all 32 NFL Teams within the short time frame of 34 days. Antonio Garay and his hilarious photos cross the San Diego Chargers off the list.

To see this full article in its original format, check out CBS Man Cave Daily.

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The Blonde Side Interview’s Lululemon Lead Accessory Designer

The Mat, $68 at Lululemon (photo courtesy of Lululemon)

Lululemon designer looks to Houston workouts to figure out what customers really want

I was all set to interview Katie Douglas, lead accessory designer for Lululemon, the yoga-inspired athletic apparel company. But I quickly learned that a meetingwith any Lululemon employee most certainly requires some degree of sweat. As it should.

Douglas and Lululemon accessories design assistant Kathleen Westerhout invited me to Sculpt Fitness for an early morning workout (which began with the instructor saying, “If you feel you need to throw up, please step away from the machines”), followed by coffee and breakfast at Tiny Boxwoods.

Based out of Vancouver, where the brand originated, Douglas and Westerhout came here to check out the chains’ three Houston locations (Galleria, Highland Village and most recently CityCentre), partake in a detailed and grueling fitness circuit and go on a “four-day taco bender.”

I quickly learned that a meeting with any Lululemon employee most certainly requires some degree of sweat. As it should.

Having been with the company for a little more than three years, Douglas is the ideal person to chat with about the brand and its loyal following, who are known as “luluheads.” During our conversation, she talked about the brand that both men and women are increasingly going gaga over, her favorite things about Houston and what’s in store (literally).

CultureMap: I’m not hungry. I’m still trying not to throw up from that workout. It was intense, right?

Katie Douglas: Yes, it was great. We’ve had quite a few good workouts since we got in town.

CM: Where have you been?

KD: West End Run Club, Yoga One in Midtown, Big Yoga, Sculpt and Yoga Collective. I think that’s it.

CM:You’ve only been here four days – if my math is correct, some of those days included more than one workout?

The Blonde Side and Lululemon girls after a hard workout at Sculpt Fusion in Houston

KD: [laughing]: Working out is not only part of the job, but it’s all something we love. One of the best things about our company is that the first focus is our people – we’re all about having well-rounded lives. Plus, if I didn’t actually use my gym bag or wear scarves, I wouldn’t know how to improve on them and if I didn’t actually do the sports, I wouldn’t know how the apparel needs to function for the sport, like yoga mats.

CM: So what have you noticed about the fitness scene here in Houston?

KD: The classes offered here are great – more options than most. In Houston we see a lot of fusion exercises – Austin too. Like yoga with weights. Vancouver is a bit more pure when it comes to working out, like just run clubs or just spin classes. We (Vancouver) just got our first spin studio about a year ago and CrossFit is getting bigger, but we do a lot of outdoor running and biking – Vancouver is beautiful. We’re a bit slower on the fitness scene, but everybody’s still very active.

If I didn’t actually use my gym bag or wear scarves, I wouldn’t know how to improve on them and if I didn’t actually do the sports, I wouldn’t know how the apparel needs to function for the sport, like yoga mats.

CM: Is Houston more fast-paced than you imagined?

KD: Yes and no. It’s the city so it’s definitely got that city-vibe where everyone’s got to get from point A to point B, but at the same time it’s the South. What amazes me is that you guys get up at 4:30 to go to a 5 a.m. workout and your day keeps going — we don’t get up so early.

CM: Are there certain pieces that do better in Houston?

Sink/Shower Kit, $68 at Lululemon (photo via Lululemon)

KD: It’s all about shorts: year round. It’s so hot you don’t need to wear pants very often. It’s great for us to experience your weather – it’s sunny and 80 but chilly in the morning, whereas it’s 50 and rainy in Vancouver.

CM: Yeah, we’re definitely all about the layers here. What do you recommend?

KD: There are some great lightweight down puffy jackets that are so lightweight you can throw them on in the morning and then stuff them in your bag – they’re not super heavy – so you’re covered morning and night. Back to the whole fast-paced lifestyle, we’ve also discovered you don’t go home and change a lot so being versatile and having layers is a must.

CM: You’re an accessories designer – what all does that mean for lulu?

KD: Scarves, socks, bags, yoga mats, yoga props, water bottles and headbands.

CM: The holidays are coming up. What are some must-have items this season?

KD: Definitely bags, scarves, or anything puffy. Or socks. I believe socks should be in every stocking.

In Houston, it’s all about shorts: year round. It’s so hot you don’t need to wear pants very often.

Kathleen Westerhout: Our Toiletry Kit – I’m excited about that one. It’s a great gift because of the price point and everyone needs one.

CM: Any final words on our city or what we can look forward to in your stores?

KD: If Houston likes their color as much as I think they do, they’re going to be really excited about the next few seasons – winter is going to be amazing. As for the January, color palette – your mind is going to be blown. It’s so fun and happy. It’s really awesome.

KW: I can’t wait to plan my return – I want to come back for vacation – I want to see more of Texas.

KD: Me too.

Once upon a time (as in just a few months ago), I felt Lululemon was entirely too overpriced for apparel that I’d literally sweat in, especially someone like me who sweats like a man. The more I wear and learn about the product (i.e. the gusset, which prevents cameltoe) and become acclimated with their culture, the bigger a fan I become.

The recognizable logo not only symbolizes a commitment to living a healthy life, but also a well-rounded and happy one. That my friends, is well worth the extra pennies. And of course, plenty of motivation to get your sweat on.

This article was featured on Culture Map, Houston’s Daily Digital Magazine in the fashion/style section.

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Aldrick Robinson

Photo via Patrick Smith/Stringer/Getty Images Sports/Getty Images

Aldrick Robinson Takes Game To A Whole New Level.

For us common folk, it’s hard to imagine the everyday life of an NFL player. A $25 organic-spinach smoothie for breakfast, riding in their Bentley to practice, having paparazzi and crazed fans storm them for photos and autographs, an elaborate steak dinner with private security keeping the “trash” out, Playboy bunnies and models incessantly texting naughty pictures, and then finally heading home to one of the many variations of housing styles featured on MTV’s Cribs. That sounds accurate, right?

According to Aldrick Robinson, Wide Receiver for the Washington Redskins, my depiction isn’t even close. Apparently Lindsey Lohan’s sobriety is closer to the truth than my original thoughts. Robinson basically plays his video game, NBA 2k, a lot.

I gave the NFL rookie the green light to talk about anything he wanted. Thrilled with this open-forum interview, Robinson immediately wanted to talk about NBA 2k. According to Robinson, a typical day for him looks something like this: “I get out of practice around 4:30, I eat, then I play it [NBA 2k] for about four hours,” he says.

The 2011 sixth-rounder (178th overall) explains that because he actually “lives the NFL everyday,” playing that on a video game would be “boring.”

“NBA is kind of fun because I don’t actually play that sport anymore. I played basketball in my high school days – I was a guard. And I was good,” he humbly adds. “I play it on PS3 and Xbox 360 but mainly PS3 – there’s more competition on PS3. It’s easy because anybody can play with a PS3 and an Internet connection – you can play people from all across the world.”

No stranger to competition and certainly not afraid of a challenge, the confident 5-foot-10 gamer issued a nationwide challenge back in 2011 for NBA 2K11. He’s quoted in an article on the Redskins blog saying, “I’m probably the best person in the nation at that game. If you play PS3, I’m under CallMeLilA . Look me up and you will get beat down.”

I asked if it was OK for the sake of this article and facilitating harder video game challenges for him in the future if I could post his name (or handle, or hashtag, or whatever it is you call it in video game jargon). “No doubt, because a lot of people don’t believe the hype about how good I am. You tell whoever to look me up under CallMeLilA,” he urges. “Here, let me spell it so you get it right,” he adds.

Robinson playing his “other” game (photo via Robinson)

His favorite basketball team in “real life” is the Lakers, but to be fair to the lesser competition, Robinson plays with the Brooklyn Nets on the game. “They [the Brooklyn Nets] are a good team but they are underrated on the game. I would play with the Lakers but everyone thinks the Lakers are a cheat team on the game because of their stacked players in real life, so I try to make it even. I’m still winning. If I play with the Lakers everyone will say I’m just winning because I’m playing with the best team. The Nets are a middle of the road team and I still dominate with them,” Robinson explains.

There’s got to be some competition left out there for you, I asked?

“I play some of my teammates. I guess as far as competition goes, I think right now it’s my fellow receiver Leonard Hankerson.  He gives me a good game every time. We’re about 90/10 because I let him win sometimes just to keep the rivalry alive. I don’t want to beat him dead all the time because then he won’t play me anymore,” Robinson jokes. (To clarify, Hankerson is the 10%.)

If Hankerson’s your toughest competitor, you’ve got to be on the hunt for something better, right?

“Well, yeah. Brian Orakpo [Redskins linebacker] was better than me last year, I gave him the edge, but I haven’t been playing him a lot this year. I hope he’s practicing (or whatever), but I want to play him. Will you get him to play me?” Robinson laughs.

Reports have surfaced for years claiming video games are bad for your health, citing issues such as finger deformities in young children due to the intricate and rapid finger movement (hello, TYPING), strained eyes and neck muscles and more. I asked Robinson if he could speak to any of these claims and provide further insight. “Well actually I have a couple dislocated fingers [from football] and they start to bother me sometimes but I play through it. I’m a warrior you know,” he says.

Given his love for the game, I began to wonder if Robinson traveled with his game console or there was a computer/iPad version to help tweak his intermittent fixes on the road. “No, I don’t travel with games. I stopped doing that in college. I’ve brought it to the hotel once for a home game, but my mind is only on the football game at hand,” he says.

Robinson made his NFL debut earlier this season in the Redskins home opener beating the New Orleans Saints.  The rookie subbed in for an injured Pierre Garcon, where he set off to score his first career touchdown and recorded four receptions and 52 yards for the Redskins.

You may remember earlier this season the SMU grad suffered quite a hit in the end zone, before the game even started. Teammate Brandon Meriweather ran a route that landed him straight into Aldrick, sans helmet, which knocked both the guys out and put them out of at least one game. “I got knocked out and was slightly concussed and missed the one game. I was out of video games too,” Aldrick added.

I’m sure Coach Shanahan was happy to hear that his injury was enough to warrant putting down the controllers for a few days.

[Man Cave Fact: Four hours of video games counts as exercise if you stand while you play.]

Note: This post is part of The Blonde Side’s Momentum Challenge series to interview one active player from all 32 NFL Teams within the short time frame of 34 days. Aldrick Robinson and his love for NBA 2K cross the Washington Redskins off the list.

To see this full article in its original format, check out CBS Man Cave Daily.

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Devon Still’s Sneakers

Devon Still’s Sneaker Collection (photo via Still)

More Than Just a Pretty Penny.

An avid collector or sneakers, Devon Still, defensive tackle for the Cincinnati Bengals, seemed more than eager to put down his Call of Duty video game, the same game he considers himself “one of the best” at, to chat with me about his outrageous sneaker collection.

The 23-year-old NFL star claims he has more than 50 pairs of sneakers, many of which he loves equally and rotates throughout his wardrobe. “The first thing I decide when getting dressed is what shoe I’m going to wear and then I go from there,” Still says.

Still’s affinity for shoes comes from a rather sentimental story, believe it or not. “When I was a kid, my family didn’t have a lot of money. We had just enough to get by, so we didn’t get to have that many different shoes. As a kid I used to see kids with a bunch of shoes and I only had one pair. When I made it to the NFL, I started buying all those things I wanted as a kid that we couldn’t afford and shoes were definitely one of them,” he admits. “I guess you could say it’s one of my most expensive hobbies, I probably buy two or three pairs a month.”

No matter how much I love sports, as a chick, shoes are definitely something I too can get behind. Here’s a little look at  our interview:

JL: First off, should I call them tennis shoes or sneakers?

Still: Sneakers. For sure.

JL: Ok, well what kind of sneakers do you like the best?

Still: Majority of the ones I have are Nike. Definitely a lot of Jordans, and a lot of Foamposites.

JL: Ok, I know all about Jordans, but Foamposites?

Still: Yeah, Penny Hardway’s shoes. They’re real big right now. You’ve never heard of them?

[Interview Break: Foamposites debuted in 1997 with a hefty price tag of $180 and were a signature shoe of the former All-Star Penny Hardaway. Websites such as Nice Kicks show upcoming release dates and custom models like the Mountain Dew release, clearly indicating Still isn’t alone with his obsession, er collection.]

JL: What’s Hardaway doing these days?

Still: I have no idea. I know he’s making a lot of money off his shoes.

JL: Clearly. What’s the most expensive pair you own?

Still: My Galaxy [foamposites] that go for around $1500-$2000.

JL: Those are about the same price as the red-soled Louboutins! Do you ever wear them or do they sit in your closet like a glassed-in autographed Babe Ruth baseball?

Still: Oh no, I wear them. I’ve had them for maybe six months and probably wore them twice.

JL: For special occasions?

Still: Yeah I guess.

JL: What about clubs and bars that have strict dress codes with sneakers. Can you still get in?

Still: They don’t have a choice. These are expensive sneakers; they gotta let you in.

JL: What are your newest pair?

Still: My Air Jordan 4 Retro, they were about $150

JL: Which ones are your favorites?

Still: Probably those Galaxies I mentioned. Those are my favorite. I also have a pair of foamposites in my team colors. They are silver, orange and black.

JL: Where do you buy most of your sneakers?

Still: Sometimes my Nike rep hooks me up, but also from a local place in Cincinnati called Corporate. It’s personally owned and he sells to a lot of the Bengals players.

JL: I heard last year that some people were killing over some Jordans around Christmas? That makes me sad.

Still: Yeah, people were killing over those Galaxies I was telling you about – they are so limited and sell out so fast and you never know if they’re coming out again and people go crazy. I definitely have to watch some of my shoes and where I wear them.

Still keeps his sneakers organized (photo via Still)

JL: Speaking of Christmas, are there any sneakers on your list this year?

Still: Air Jordan 11 “Bred” [Scheduled to be released this month.]

JL: Who do you give your Christmas list to? Santa?

Still: Nah, I’ll probably ask my parents for them. I’ll put that in somebody’s ear in my family to get me those Jordans. [hint, hint]

JL: Are you afraid your daughter [she’s two] is going to grow up and love shoes half as much as you? Girls’ shoes are expensive too, you know?

Still: I think all women have a love for shoes so I’m sure she’ll love them that much more because I’m a sneaker fanatic. I buy her Jordans from time to time. She likes them, so we’ll see.

JL: What about one day when you make it even bigger, making your own line of shoes?

Still: Nah, I’m good. I don’t have the imagination for creating my own, I’ll just buy them.

JL: I’ll let you get back to playing Call of Duty. That’s a pretty bold statement to say you’re one of the best.

Still: I know.

Note: This post is part of The Blonde Side’s Momentum Challenge series to interview one active player from all 32 NFL Teams within the short time frame of 34 days. Devon Still’s sneakers cross the Cincinnati Bengals off the list.

To see this full article in its original format, check out CBS Man Cave Daily.

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Sam Acho Had Me At Hello

The Acho Family at the Living Hope Ministries Event Nov. 26, 2012. (Yeung Photography)

Sam Acho Had Me At Hello

It seems once you make it to the NFL level, there are a few things that quickly follow suit. You join Twitter, you get groupies, you get haters, you learn to juggle all these new responsibilities (and bank accounts) and you start or participate in a charity.

To my knowledge, the NFL doesn’t mandate that players partake in charity or non-profit activities, though I’m sure it’s highly encouraged (like when your doctor suggests you lose weight or you shouldn’t park your oversized SUV where it clearly says “compact cars only”).

Living in Houston, I’ve heard a number of good things about Sam Acho over the years, from his time at The University of Texas. Not a bad word has been said about the guy and after his friendly hello, I quickly understood why. I too had experienced that awkwardly intimate Jerry Maguire moment – Sam Acho had me at hello. I was a fan. For about a billion reasons.

The Arizona Cardinals linebacker, was eager to talk about his foundation, Living Hope Ministries. Most of the NFL guys I chat with are monotone, with answers more rehearsed than an episode of The Hills.

Acho, who says his charity is where his heart is, took time out of his busy day of practice, working out, planning a huge charity event and attempting to build a hospital in Nigeria (that’s busy!), to talk about why his heart is so invested. “Twenty years ago my parents started this [foundation] and we go to Nigeria every year and do missions work where we basically give them free medical care,” Acho says.

Acho’s father’s leadership and guidance instilled a spirit of giving not only in Sam, but the rest of his siblings as well. “My dad is a physician – both my parents were born and raised in Nigeria – Dr. Acho has his PhD in psychology and my mom’s a nurse practitioner. They have a heart for helping people, something I learned to value early on,” Acho says.

Acho explains that about 2/3 of the Nigerian population lives under $1 a day. To put it in perspective, I don’t think you can make a call from a payphone or order anything off the Taco Bell menu for under a dollar anymore.

RBs William Powell and Beanie Wells at the Living Hope Ministries event Nov 26, 2012.

“They don’t have the simple medicine we have. They get sick and die, from a little illness that a trip to the doctor would easily cure. Now we are trying to build a hospital in Nigeria,” Acho adds.

A quick search of NFL athletes on Twitter will show that a large majority (I’m not good with numbers) include the word “humble” in their bios. I’d have to disagree with quite a few of them. I think T.O. had that in his bio at one time or another. Point taken. But Acho’s (@TheSamAcho) was refreshingly accurate and truly humble. And anything else warm and fuzzy imaginable. It simply reads:

“I believe that God sent His Son Jesus to die on the cross for our sins. I’m pumped because I know that God will use my failures to glorify Himself. I fail a lot.”

As a fellow believer in God, I value his bio for many reasons, but it’s the last part that’s particularly interesting. You fail a lot? Sporting News named you one of the 20 smartest athletes back in 2010 – only three college players made that list! You’re good looking and have a heart of gold. Oh, you’re also in the NFL. But you fail a lot?

“Yes. It’s something I’ve been dealing with recently. A lot of times we think we’re supposed to be perfect, and when I mess up, I feel I’m not good enough. I beat myself up when I mess up, it’s frustrating because when I’m beating myself up, I’m out of commission – both on and off the field,” Acho admits.

Speaking of Twitter, a few weeks ago Acho tweeted, “Proverbs 18:16 ‘A man’s gift makes room for him, And brings him before great men.’ What’s your gift?? #MyGiftIs” Hundreds of his followers responded with their own individual answers using the hashtag, but Acho failed to include what he thinks his gift is.

“I think my gift is the ability to connect with people and inspire them to do great things. I want to say something to someone that will stick with them for a long time and inspire them to take action,” he explains.

WR Larry Fitzgerald at the Living Hope Ministries Event Nov. 26, 2012

If the Dallas native is so busy inspiring others, who inspires and motivates him? “My dad. He’s been married for 30 years, and still takes my mom on dates every Friday. He works hard to take care of his family. If it weren’t for him I wouldn’t be going to Nigeria every year – he put that in my heart. Along with Scripture, he showed me that failure isn’t the end of the world. You’ll always be able to recover from whatever it is and there’s always still hope,” Acho says.

It’s refreshing to see a guy get excited about something other than an endzone dance. Don’t get me wrong, I love endzone dances, but this is nice too.

Intermittent failure is a part of life – thanks to Sam Acho for the reminder to “keep on keepin’ on.”

This post is part of The Blonde Side’s Momentum Challenge series to interview one active player from all 32 NFL Teams within the short time frame of 34 days. Sam Acho crosses the Arizona Cardinals off the list.

To see this full article in its original format, check out CBS Man Cave Daily.

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