This document provides a first-person account of the author's experience playing catcher for the Tucson Federal Savings little league baseball team in the summer of 1962. Some key details:
- The author (Ritchie Jackson) was assigned to play catcher due to lacking skills for other positions. Catchers have special protective equipment like chest protectors, shin guards, and most notably, a plastic cup inserted into an athletic supporter.
- An embarrassing shopping trip with his mother results in Ritchie purchasing his first jock strap and cup.
- Their team, Tucson Federal Savings, struggles against the dominant team Dave's Towing, known for their unusually large 12-year-old pitcher.
- In
- The document is a speech given by First Lieutenant Francis Q. Hoang, the youngest graduate, at the Kansas City Area Founder's Day Dinner on March 27, 1999 at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
- In the speech, Hoang humorously references his experience previously giving a youngest graduate speech and provides tongue-in-cheek advice and guidelines for future youngest graduates in a fictional "A Youngest Grad's Guide to Giving Founder's Day Speeches."
- Hoang then shares his personal journey from being airlifted out of Vietnam in 1975 to attending West Point and graduating, expressing pride in being part of the "Long Gray Line" of West Point graduates.
Violet is likely shy and introverted based on her stated dislike of being around many people and wish to hide. Sally Ann chose the small, older dog that was accustomed to being home alone and using a doggy door rather than the younger, larger dog used to more space. Julio and his father did not take much food because they were planning to eat the fish they caught. Ruri's family is moving to another place based on her empty room and house. As time passes, more gamers are becoming hooked on video games despite pressures to make them less violent. Michael is afraid of going into battle in Iraq based on his worries about bombs, death, and carnage.
Spider Jerusalem's Completely Hypothetical Bachelor Challenge, Day 4Doc Nerd
De has been eliminated from the Utterly Hallucinatory Spider Jerusalem Vetinari Bachelor Challenge on Day 4. While she made it further than expected, reaching the final four contestants, she did not receive the three bolts of chemistry that Styx and Kaiyah earned with Spider Jerusalem. As a result, De leaves the competition without any Spider Jerusalem babies.
The first article provides a tip for recovering from body aches without serious injury by applying an astonishing paste. It does not provide details on the paste.
The second article discusses youth basketball leagues in Houston that emphasize teamwork, fun, and ensuring all children play.
The third article is about a patient who visited the author with an old prescription for chronic depression, tension, anxiety and high blood pressure that was successfully treated without allopathic medicine.
College Application Essays that WorkedCaroleTrone2
This is an excerpt from Fair Opportunity Project's award-winning college application and financial aid guide. You can download the full guide at fairopportunityproject.org.
The book is a memoir by Mark Kappes about his life as an aging athlete and the lessons he has learned about adversity, competition, and what truly matters. It describes how he had a mid-life crisis at age 46 despite success in his career and family. The first chapter discusses his childhood as a small, rebellious kid who was often bullied but found wrestling in third grade, which started to build his confidence and desire to stand up for himself.
John F Kennedy Essay. President John F. Kennedys speechs - Free Essay Example...Jennifer Johnson
President John F. Kennedy's speechs - Free Essay Example | PapersOwl.com. John F. Kennedy's Legacy - Free Essay Example | PapersOwl.com. The Inaugural Address of John F. Kennedy Essay Example | Topics and .... John F Kennedy | John F. Kennedy | Presidents Of The United States.
The Way to Rainy Mountain1. In many ways, Momaday is writing .docxssusera34210
The Way to Rainy Mountain
1. In many ways, Momaday is writing a memoir of a people, the Kiowas, not just himself or his grandmother. How does he use events from his own life and his grandmother’s life as a lens through which he can talk about the Kiowas?
2. This memoir is filled with visual imagery. Find five places where Momaday uses detail, to heighten the reader’s experience with the text. Then find one place each in which he uses sound, touch, smell, and taste to describe the world he is remembering.
3. Nature itself is a character in this memoir. Where in this memoir does nature seem to be taking on a living role? In what ways does Momaday use nature to move the story in this memoir forward?
The College Hazing That Changed My Life
1. An effective memoir usually starts fast with a “lead” that draws the reader in and hints at the memoir’s overall meaning or “theme.” Sometimes, as in this case, it takes the reader right into heart of the main action before backing up and providing background. How effectively does this strategy work in this memoir?
2. Rogers sets the scene with rich and vivid details. He moves from various scenes, painting brief but compelling portraits of key people, from family members to his athletic team members. He also fills scenes with sensory details (sight, touch, sound, and smell). Find specific places where this variety and richness in detail make the memoir more powerful.
3. At the heart of any memoir (or story) is a complication that the author grapples with and needs to resolve. In this memoir, what is the conflict that draws readers in and makes this more than just a personal story? How does he resolve that conflict, and how would you describe his new understanding?
4. Memoirs usually conclude with a point or “implied thesis.” How would you describe the author’s new understanding? What general point (or points) does the author make?
The College Hazing That Changed My Life
I had no idea college was going to be so much like a gay porn movie. That’s what I kept thinking as I stood in the middle of a sun-dappled backyard, dressed in nothing but a spandex unitard and running shoes, preparing to have oil poured over my body. For the last two hours, 10 other young rowers and I had been undergoing “initiation” to my university’s varsity crew team. After two weeks of tryouts, we had finally made the grade, and this was our reward: An afternoon of embarrassing hazing activities, followed by a homoerotic climax that seemed to have come straight out of my 17-year-old gay subconscious.
Our team captain, a 200-pound hulk of a man, was walking from freshman to freshman with a large vat of vegetable oil, and letting it cascade all over them one by one. “Be prepared to have the worst acne of your lives over the next week,” he warned us. A tarp nearby had also been covered in oil, and other members of the team were streaming into the backyard with bottles of beer to watch what was about to happen. When my turn ...
- The document is a speech given by First Lieutenant Francis Q. Hoang, the youngest graduate, at the Kansas City Area Founder's Day Dinner on March 27, 1999 at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
- In the speech, Hoang humorously references his experience previously giving a youngest graduate speech and provides tongue-in-cheek advice and guidelines for future youngest graduates in a fictional "A Youngest Grad's Guide to Giving Founder's Day Speeches."
- Hoang then shares his personal journey from being airlifted out of Vietnam in 1975 to attending West Point and graduating, expressing pride in being part of the "Long Gray Line" of West Point graduates.
Violet is likely shy and introverted based on her stated dislike of being around many people and wish to hide. Sally Ann chose the small, older dog that was accustomed to being home alone and using a doggy door rather than the younger, larger dog used to more space. Julio and his father did not take much food because they were planning to eat the fish they caught. Ruri's family is moving to another place based on her empty room and house. As time passes, more gamers are becoming hooked on video games despite pressures to make them less violent. Michael is afraid of going into battle in Iraq based on his worries about bombs, death, and carnage.
Spider Jerusalem's Completely Hypothetical Bachelor Challenge, Day 4Doc Nerd
De has been eliminated from the Utterly Hallucinatory Spider Jerusalem Vetinari Bachelor Challenge on Day 4. While she made it further than expected, reaching the final four contestants, she did not receive the three bolts of chemistry that Styx and Kaiyah earned with Spider Jerusalem. As a result, De leaves the competition without any Spider Jerusalem babies.
The first article provides a tip for recovering from body aches without serious injury by applying an astonishing paste. It does not provide details on the paste.
The second article discusses youth basketball leagues in Houston that emphasize teamwork, fun, and ensuring all children play.
The third article is about a patient who visited the author with an old prescription for chronic depression, tension, anxiety and high blood pressure that was successfully treated without allopathic medicine.
College Application Essays that WorkedCaroleTrone2
This is an excerpt from Fair Opportunity Project's award-winning college application and financial aid guide. You can download the full guide at fairopportunityproject.org.
The book is a memoir by Mark Kappes about his life as an aging athlete and the lessons he has learned about adversity, competition, and what truly matters. It describes how he had a mid-life crisis at age 46 despite success in his career and family. The first chapter discusses his childhood as a small, rebellious kid who was often bullied but found wrestling in third grade, which started to build his confidence and desire to stand up for himself.
John F Kennedy Essay. President John F. Kennedys speechs - Free Essay Example...Jennifer Johnson
President John F. Kennedy's speechs - Free Essay Example | PapersOwl.com. John F. Kennedy's Legacy - Free Essay Example | PapersOwl.com. The Inaugural Address of John F. Kennedy Essay Example | Topics and .... John F Kennedy | John F. Kennedy | Presidents Of The United States.
The Way to Rainy Mountain1. In many ways, Momaday is writing .docxssusera34210
The Way to Rainy Mountain
1. In many ways, Momaday is writing a memoir of a people, the Kiowas, not just himself or his grandmother. How does he use events from his own life and his grandmother’s life as a lens through which he can talk about the Kiowas?
2. This memoir is filled with visual imagery. Find five places where Momaday uses detail, to heighten the reader’s experience with the text. Then find one place each in which he uses sound, touch, smell, and taste to describe the world he is remembering.
3. Nature itself is a character in this memoir. Where in this memoir does nature seem to be taking on a living role? In what ways does Momaday use nature to move the story in this memoir forward?
The College Hazing That Changed My Life
1. An effective memoir usually starts fast with a “lead” that draws the reader in and hints at the memoir’s overall meaning or “theme.” Sometimes, as in this case, it takes the reader right into heart of the main action before backing up and providing background. How effectively does this strategy work in this memoir?
2. Rogers sets the scene with rich and vivid details. He moves from various scenes, painting brief but compelling portraits of key people, from family members to his athletic team members. He also fills scenes with sensory details (sight, touch, sound, and smell). Find specific places where this variety and richness in detail make the memoir more powerful.
3. At the heart of any memoir (or story) is a complication that the author grapples with and needs to resolve. In this memoir, what is the conflict that draws readers in and makes this more than just a personal story? How does he resolve that conflict, and how would you describe his new understanding?
4. Memoirs usually conclude with a point or “implied thesis.” How would you describe the author’s new understanding? What general point (or points) does the author make?
The College Hazing That Changed My Life
I had no idea college was going to be so much like a gay porn movie. That’s what I kept thinking as I stood in the middle of a sun-dappled backyard, dressed in nothing but a spandex unitard and running shoes, preparing to have oil poured over my body. For the last two hours, 10 other young rowers and I had been undergoing “initiation” to my university’s varsity crew team. After two weeks of tryouts, we had finally made the grade, and this was our reward: An afternoon of embarrassing hazing activities, followed by a homoerotic climax that seemed to have come straight out of my 17-year-old gay subconscious.
Our team captain, a 200-pound hulk of a man, was walking from freshman to freshman with a large vat of vegetable oil, and letting it cascade all over them one by one. “Be prepared to have the worst acne of your lives over the next week,” he warned us. A tarp nearby had also been covered in oil, and other members of the team were streaming into the backyard with bottles of beer to watch what was about to happen. When my turn ...
Serbia vs England Tickets: Serbia's Historic Euro 2024 Journey, A Blend of Ex...Eticketing.co
Eticketing.co offers UEFA Euro 2024 Tickets to admirers who can get Serbia vs England Tickets through our trusted online ticketing marketplace. Eticketing.co is the most reliable source for booking Euro Cup Final Tickets. Sign up for the latest Euro Cup Germany Ticket alert.
Here are our Euro 2024 predictions for the group stages
Will England make it through the group stages?, Will Germany use the home advantage to full effect?
Follow our progress, see how many we get right
If you want to join in let us know before the first game kick off and we can invite you to our private league
or join in with our friends at DeeperThanBlue
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/activity-7204868572995538944-qejG
https://www.selectdistinct.co.uk/2024/06/13/euro-2024-match-predictions/
#EURO2024 #Germany2024 #England #EURO2024predictions
Turkey vs Georgia Tickets: Turkey's Redemption Quest in Euro 2024, A PreviewEticketing.co
Euro Cup Germany fans worldwide can book Euro 2024 Tickets from our online platform www.eticketing.co.Fans can book Euro Cup 2024 Tickets on our website at discounted prices.
Georgia vs Portugal Euro Cup 2024 Clash Unites a Nation Amid Turmoil.pdfEticketing.co
Euro 2024 fans worldwide can book Georgia vs Portugal Tickets from our online platform www.eticketing.co. Fans can book Euro Cup Germany Tickets on our website at discounted prices.
Euro 2024 Key Tactics and Strategies of the Netherlands.docxEticketing.co
We offer Euro Cup Tickets to admirers who can get Netherlands vs Austria Tickets through our trusted online ticketing marketplace. Eticketing.co is the most reliable source for booking Euro Cup Final Tickets. Sign up for the latest Euro Cup Germany Ticket alert.
Poland vs Netherlands UEFA Euro 2024 Poland Battles Injuries Without Lewandow...Eticketing.co
UEFA Euro 2024 fans worldwide can book Poland vs Netherlands Tickets from our online platform www.eticketing.co. Fans can book Euro Cup Germany Tickets on our website at discounted prices.
Euro 2024 Belgium's Rebirth the New Generation Match the Golden Era.docxEticketing.co
The Golden Group is over. Can a new group step up? Two years ago, Kevin De Bruyne plunged Belgium’s Euro 2024 plans into disorder when he claimed the team was “too old” to win in an interview with The Protector. That Belgian squad had 10 players over 30 and the maximum average age of any Euro Cup 2024 team at the competition. A group-stage exit and just one goal at the World Cup put Belgium on course for a restructure.
We offer Euro Cup Tickets to admirers who can get Belgium vs Romania Tickets through our trusted online ticketing marketplace. Eticketing.co is the most reliable source for booking Euro Cup Final Tickets. Sign up for the latest Euro Cup Germany Ticket alert.
Belgium vs Romania Tickets | Euro Cup Tickets | Euro Cup Final Tickets
Coach Domenico Tedesco has managed a tactical shakeup and a regular exit for some of the oldest players. Experienced bests remain, not least the 37-year-old Jan Vertonghen in defense, the 32-year-old De Bruyne himself in midfield, and 31-year-old Romelu Lukaku up visible.
Still, younger actors like De Bruyne’s Manchester City partner Jeremy Doku bring fresh vitality to the team. Euro Cup Germany Qualifying unbeaten with just four goals allowed from eight games was a welcome sign of accomplishment back on track under Tedesco.
The only other squad in Group E besides Belgium to UEFA Euro 2024 qualify unbeaten, Romania was awestruck by winning a group that also checked Switzerland and Israel. Still, Euro 2024 will test a squad sorely lacking in top-level skill.
Euro 2024: Belgium's Transition from Golden Generation to New Hope
Tottenham guardian Vlad Dragusin is the only Euro Cup 2024 squad member singing regularly for one of Europe’s top clubs this flavor. He even played only nine Premier League games since adoption in January. Goalkeeper Horatiu Moldovan is a stoppage at Atletico Madrid.
There’s a link to the beauty days of Romanian soccer with midfielder Ianis Hagi, son of Gheorghe Hagi, who assisted the team to the rounds of the 1994 World Cup and Euro 2000.
We are only a combine of days away from the UEFA Euro 2024 curtain raiser. The 24 squads are winding up their provisions and getting ready to give it their all to life the wanted Euro Cup Final trophy on July 14. Spread across six clusters, the first hurdle in the knockout phase will be the plump of 16.
Euro fans worldwide can book Euro 2024 Tickets from our online platform, www.eticketing.co. Fans can book Euro Cup 2024 Tickets on our website at discounted prices.
Germany and Scotland will take things off before we get into overdrive in two weeks. Meanwhile, Belgium will be longing to bounce back after a horrendous 2022 FIFA World Cup movement, which ended in the group stage.
Belgium vs Romania Tickets | Euro Cup 2024 Tickets | Euro Cup Tickets | Euro Cup Final Tickets
Roberto Martinez completed the way for Domenico Tedesco, who has overseen a compact start to his tenure. The 38-year-old will be assured heading into the group stage
Indian Premier League (IPL) ---2024.pptxrathinikunj60
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the most prominent and lucrative Twenty20 (T20) cricket leagues in the world. Since its inception in 2008, the IPL has revolutionized the landscape of cricket by blending sports, entertainment, and commerce. This summary provides an overview of the IPL's history, structure, notable performances, controversies, and its impact on cricket and beyond.
History and Formation
The IPL was launched by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in 2008, inspired by the success of domestic T20 leagues like the English T20 Cup and the now-defunct Indian Cricket League (ICL). Lalit Modi, the then Vice-President of BCCI, played a crucial role in conceptualizing and launching the league. The inaugural season kicked off in April 2008 with eight franchises representing different cities in India.
Structure and Format
The IPL follows a franchise-based model, where teams are owned by a mix of corporations, Bollywood stars, and other high-profile individuals. The league originally started with eight teams, although the number has fluctuated over the years due to various reasons including expansions and terminations. As of the latest seasons, the IPL features ten teams.
The tournament format includes a double round-robin stage, where each team plays the others twice, followed by playoffs. The top four teams from the round-robin stage qualify for the playoffs, which consist of two qualifiers, an eliminator, and the final. This format ensures a highly competitive and engaging tournament, culminating in a grand finale to crown the champion.
Teams and Their Evolution
The founding teams of the IPL were:
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals)
Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings)
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
Mumbai Indians (MI)
Rajasthan Royals (RR)
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
Deccan Chargers (now defunct, replaced by Sunrisers Hyderabad)
Over the years, the league has seen new teams such as Pune Warriors India, Kochi Tuskers Kerala, Gujarat Lions, and Rising Pune Supergiant. The most recent additions are the Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants, introduced in the 2022 season.
Iconic Players and Performances
The IPL has attracted the best talent from around the world, with numerous iconic players making significant contributions. Some of the standout performers include:
Sachin Tendulkar (MI): The "Little Master" brought his legendary status to the IPL, winning the Orange Cap (top run-scorer) in 2010.
Chris Gayle (RCB, KXIP): Known for his explosive batting, Gayle holds the record for the highest individual score in an IPL match (175*).
MS Dhoni (CSK): Dhoni's leadership has been instrumental in CSK's success, leading them to multiple titles.
AB de Villiers (RCB): Renowned for his innovative stroke play, de Villiers has been a consistent match-winner.
Virat Kohli (RCB): The highest run-scorer in IPL history, Kohli's batting prowess is unmatched.
La
❽❽❻❼❼❻❻❸❾❻ Matka BOSS Result | Satta Matka Tips | Kalyan Matka 143dpbossdpboss69
Satta BOSS Matka | DpBoss Matka | Matka BOSS Result | Satta Matka Tips | Kalyan Matka 143 · SATTA KING · ➥ SATTA MATKA TIME TEBAL · SATTA KING · ➥ Weekly ...
Playing this fast-paced game, you control a small cube that has to get through stages that get harder by avoiding spikes, obstacles, and dangerous gaps while keeping up a fast pace. Though, it's important to remember that Geometry Dash isn't a simple game to get good at. No matter what mistake you make, you will face a tough position and have to start at the beginning.
The sounds and sights in Geometry Dash are very interesting. Your attention will be drawn to the simple style and catchy melodies. While the game looks good, it's not just visually challenging; getting through the tricky rounds requires quick thinking and reflexes.
The stages get harder over time, testing your skills and forcing you to find new ways to get past problems that other people have found impossible. Your experience with Geometry Dash will be remembered for a long time because of how satisfying it is to beat a difficult level or find a secret route. Join the many people who love Geometry Dash and are fascinated by this exciting and fun game. Get ready, because things will move quickly!
Georgia vs Portugal Historic Euro Cup 2024 Journey, Key Players, and Betting ...Eticketing.co
Euro Cup 2024 fans worldwide can book Georgia vs Portugal Tickets from our online platform www.eticketing.co. Fans can book Euro Cup Germany Tickets on our website at discounted prices.
Turkey UEFA Euro 2024 Journey A Quest for Redemption and Success.docxEticketing.co
We offer Euro Cup Tickets to admirers who can get Turkiye vs Georgia Tickets through our trusted online ticketing marketplace. Eticketing.co is the most reliable source for booking Euro Cup Final Tickets. Sign up for the latest Euro Cup Germany Ticket alert.
2024 State of Marketing Report – by HubspotMarius Sescu
https://www.hubspot.com/state-of-marketing
· Scaling relationships and proving ROI
· Social media is the place for search, sales, and service
· Authentic influencer partnerships fuel brand growth
· The strongest connections happen via call, click, chat, and camera.
· Time saved with AI leads to more creative work
· Seeking: A single source of truth
· TLDR; Get on social, try AI, and align your systems.
· More human marketing, powered by robots
ChatGPT is a revolutionary addition to the world since its introduction in 2022. A big shift in the sector of information gathering and processing happened because of this chatbot. What is the story of ChatGPT? How is the bot responding to prompts and generating contents? Swipe through these slides prepared by Expeed Software, a web development company regarding the development and technical intricacies of ChatGPT!
Serbia vs England Tickets: Serbia's Historic Euro 2024 Journey, A Blend of Ex...Eticketing.co
Eticketing.co offers UEFA Euro 2024 Tickets to admirers who can get Serbia vs England Tickets through our trusted online ticketing marketplace. Eticketing.co is the most reliable source for booking Euro Cup Final Tickets. Sign up for the latest Euro Cup Germany Ticket alert.
Here are our Euro 2024 predictions for the group stages
Will England make it through the group stages?, Will Germany use the home advantage to full effect?
Follow our progress, see how many we get right
If you want to join in let us know before the first game kick off and we can invite you to our private league
or join in with our friends at DeeperThanBlue
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/activity-7204868572995538944-qejG
https://www.selectdistinct.co.uk/2024/06/13/euro-2024-match-predictions/
#EURO2024 #Germany2024 #England #EURO2024predictions
Turkey vs Georgia Tickets: Turkey's Redemption Quest in Euro 2024, A PreviewEticketing.co
Euro Cup Germany fans worldwide can book Euro 2024 Tickets from our online platform www.eticketing.co.Fans can book Euro Cup 2024 Tickets on our website at discounted prices.
Georgia vs Portugal Euro Cup 2024 Clash Unites a Nation Amid Turmoil.pdfEticketing.co
Euro 2024 fans worldwide can book Georgia vs Portugal Tickets from our online platform www.eticketing.co. Fans can book Euro Cup Germany Tickets on our website at discounted prices.
Euro 2024 Key Tactics and Strategies of the Netherlands.docxEticketing.co
We offer Euro Cup Tickets to admirers who can get Netherlands vs Austria Tickets through our trusted online ticketing marketplace. Eticketing.co is the most reliable source for booking Euro Cup Final Tickets. Sign up for the latest Euro Cup Germany Ticket alert.
Poland vs Netherlands UEFA Euro 2024 Poland Battles Injuries Without Lewandow...Eticketing.co
UEFA Euro 2024 fans worldwide can book Poland vs Netherlands Tickets from our online platform www.eticketing.co. Fans can book Euro Cup Germany Tickets on our website at discounted prices.
Euro 2024 Belgium's Rebirth the New Generation Match the Golden Era.docxEticketing.co
The Golden Group is over. Can a new group step up? Two years ago, Kevin De Bruyne plunged Belgium’s Euro 2024 plans into disorder when he claimed the team was “too old” to win in an interview with The Protector. That Belgian squad had 10 players over 30 and the maximum average age of any Euro Cup 2024 team at the competition. A group-stage exit and just one goal at the World Cup put Belgium on course for a restructure.
We offer Euro Cup Tickets to admirers who can get Belgium vs Romania Tickets through our trusted online ticketing marketplace. Eticketing.co is the most reliable source for booking Euro Cup Final Tickets. Sign up for the latest Euro Cup Germany Ticket alert.
Belgium vs Romania Tickets | Euro Cup Tickets | Euro Cup Final Tickets
Coach Domenico Tedesco has managed a tactical shakeup and a regular exit for some of the oldest players. Experienced bests remain, not least the 37-year-old Jan Vertonghen in defense, the 32-year-old De Bruyne himself in midfield, and 31-year-old Romelu Lukaku up visible.
Still, younger actors like De Bruyne’s Manchester City partner Jeremy Doku bring fresh vitality to the team. Euro Cup Germany Qualifying unbeaten with just four goals allowed from eight games was a welcome sign of accomplishment back on track under Tedesco.
The only other squad in Group E besides Belgium to UEFA Euro 2024 qualify unbeaten, Romania was awestruck by winning a group that also checked Switzerland and Israel. Still, Euro 2024 will test a squad sorely lacking in top-level skill.
Euro 2024: Belgium's Transition from Golden Generation to New Hope
Tottenham guardian Vlad Dragusin is the only Euro Cup 2024 squad member singing regularly for one of Europe’s top clubs this flavor. He even played only nine Premier League games since adoption in January. Goalkeeper Horatiu Moldovan is a stoppage at Atletico Madrid.
There’s a link to the beauty days of Romanian soccer with midfielder Ianis Hagi, son of Gheorghe Hagi, who assisted the team to the rounds of the 1994 World Cup and Euro 2000.
We are only a combine of days away from the UEFA Euro 2024 curtain raiser. The 24 squads are winding up their provisions and getting ready to give it their all to life the wanted Euro Cup Final trophy on July 14. Spread across six clusters, the first hurdle in the knockout phase will be the plump of 16.
Euro fans worldwide can book Euro 2024 Tickets from our online platform, www.eticketing.co. Fans can book Euro Cup 2024 Tickets on our website at discounted prices.
Germany and Scotland will take things off before we get into overdrive in two weeks. Meanwhile, Belgium will be longing to bounce back after a horrendous 2022 FIFA World Cup movement, which ended in the group stage.
Belgium vs Romania Tickets | Euro Cup 2024 Tickets | Euro Cup Tickets | Euro Cup Final Tickets
Roberto Martinez completed the way for Domenico Tedesco, who has overseen a compact start to his tenure. The 38-year-old will be assured heading into the group stage
Indian Premier League (IPL) ---2024.pptxrathinikunj60
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the most prominent and lucrative Twenty20 (T20) cricket leagues in the world. Since its inception in 2008, the IPL has revolutionized the landscape of cricket by blending sports, entertainment, and commerce. This summary provides an overview of the IPL's history, structure, notable performances, controversies, and its impact on cricket and beyond.
History and Formation
The IPL was launched by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in 2008, inspired by the success of domestic T20 leagues like the English T20 Cup and the now-defunct Indian Cricket League (ICL). Lalit Modi, the then Vice-President of BCCI, played a crucial role in conceptualizing and launching the league. The inaugural season kicked off in April 2008 with eight franchises representing different cities in India.
Structure and Format
The IPL follows a franchise-based model, where teams are owned by a mix of corporations, Bollywood stars, and other high-profile individuals. The league originally started with eight teams, although the number has fluctuated over the years due to various reasons including expansions and terminations. As of the latest seasons, the IPL features ten teams.
The tournament format includes a double round-robin stage, where each team plays the others twice, followed by playoffs. The top four teams from the round-robin stage qualify for the playoffs, which consist of two qualifiers, an eliminator, and the final. This format ensures a highly competitive and engaging tournament, culminating in a grand finale to crown the champion.
Teams and Their Evolution
The founding teams of the IPL were:
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals)
Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings)
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
Mumbai Indians (MI)
Rajasthan Royals (RR)
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
Deccan Chargers (now defunct, replaced by Sunrisers Hyderabad)
Over the years, the league has seen new teams such as Pune Warriors India, Kochi Tuskers Kerala, Gujarat Lions, and Rising Pune Supergiant. The most recent additions are the Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants, introduced in the 2022 season.
Iconic Players and Performances
The IPL has attracted the best talent from around the world, with numerous iconic players making significant contributions. Some of the standout performers include:
Sachin Tendulkar (MI): The "Little Master" brought his legendary status to the IPL, winning the Orange Cap (top run-scorer) in 2010.
Chris Gayle (RCB, KXIP): Known for his explosive batting, Gayle holds the record for the highest individual score in an IPL match (175*).
MS Dhoni (CSK): Dhoni's leadership has been instrumental in CSK's success, leading them to multiple titles.
AB de Villiers (RCB): Renowned for his innovative stroke play, de Villiers has been a consistent match-winner.
Virat Kohli (RCB): The highest run-scorer in IPL history, Kohli's batting prowess is unmatched.
La
❽❽❻❼❼❻❻❸❾❻ Matka BOSS Result | Satta Matka Tips | Kalyan Matka 143dpbossdpboss69
Satta BOSS Matka | DpBoss Matka | Matka BOSS Result | Satta Matka Tips | Kalyan Matka 143 · SATTA KING · ➥ SATTA MATKA TIME TEBAL · SATTA KING · ➥ Weekly ...
Playing this fast-paced game, you control a small cube that has to get through stages that get harder by avoiding spikes, obstacles, and dangerous gaps while keeping up a fast pace. Though, it's important to remember that Geometry Dash isn't a simple game to get good at. No matter what mistake you make, you will face a tough position and have to start at the beginning.
The sounds and sights in Geometry Dash are very interesting. Your attention will be drawn to the simple style and catchy melodies. While the game looks good, it's not just visually challenging; getting through the tricky rounds requires quick thinking and reflexes.
The stages get harder over time, testing your skills and forcing you to find new ways to get past problems that other people have found impossible. Your experience with Geometry Dash will be remembered for a long time because of how satisfying it is to beat a difficult level or find a secret route. Join the many people who love Geometry Dash and are fascinated by this exciting and fun game. Get ready, because things will move quickly!
Georgia vs Portugal Historic Euro Cup 2024 Journey, Key Players, and Betting ...Eticketing.co
Euro Cup 2024 fans worldwide can book Georgia vs Portugal Tickets from our online platform www.eticketing.co. Fans can book Euro Cup Germany Tickets on our website at discounted prices.
Turkey UEFA Euro 2024 Journey A Quest for Redemption and Success.docxEticketing.co
We offer Euro Cup Tickets to admirers who can get Turkiye vs Georgia Tickets through our trusted online ticketing marketplace. Eticketing.co is the most reliable source for booking Euro Cup Final Tickets. Sign up for the latest Euro Cup Germany Ticket alert.
2024 State of Marketing Report – by HubspotMarius Sescu
https://www.hubspot.com/state-of-marketing
· Scaling relationships and proving ROI
· Social media is the place for search, sales, and service
· Authentic influencer partnerships fuel brand growth
· The strongest connections happen via call, click, chat, and camera.
· Time saved with AI leads to more creative work
· Seeking: A single source of truth
· TLDR; Get on social, try AI, and align your systems.
· More human marketing, powered by robots
ChatGPT is a revolutionary addition to the world since its introduction in 2022. A big shift in the sector of information gathering and processing happened because of this chatbot. What is the story of ChatGPT? How is the bot responding to prompts and generating contents? Swipe through these slides prepared by Expeed Software, a web development company regarding the development and technical intricacies of ChatGPT!
Product Design Trends in 2024 | Teenage EngineeringsPixeldarts
The realm of product design is a constantly changing environment where technology and style intersect. Every year introduces fresh challenges and exciting trends that mold the future of this captivating art form. In this piece, we delve into the significant trends set to influence the look and functionality of product design in the year 2024.
How Race, Age and Gender Shape Attitudes Towards Mental HealthThinkNow
Mental health has been in the news quite a bit lately. Dozens of U.S. states are currently suing Meta for contributing to the youth mental health crisis by inserting addictive features into their products, while the U.S. Surgeon General is touring the nation to bring awareness to the growing epidemic of loneliness and isolation. The country has endured periods of low national morale, such as in the 1970s when high inflation and the energy crisis worsened public sentiment following the Vietnam War. The current mood, however, feels different. Gallup recently reported that national mental health is at an all-time low, with few bright spots to lift spirits.
To better understand how Americans are feeling and their attitudes towards mental health in general, ThinkNow conducted a nationally representative quantitative survey of 1,500 respondents and found some interesting differences among ethnic, age and gender groups.
Technology
For example, 52% agree that technology and social media have a negative impact on mental health, but when broken out by race, 61% of Whites felt technology had a negative effect, and only 48% of Hispanics thought it did.
While technology has helped us keep in touch with friends and family in faraway places, it appears to have degraded our ability to connect in person. Staying connected online is a double-edged sword since the same news feed that brings us pictures of the grandkids and fluffy kittens also feeds us news about the wars in Israel and Ukraine, the dysfunction in Washington, the latest mass shooting and the climate crisis.
Hispanics may have a built-in defense against the isolation technology breeds, owing to their large, multigenerational households, strong social support systems, and tendency to use social media to stay connected with relatives abroad.
Age and Gender
When asked how individuals rate their mental health, men rate it higher than women by 11 percentage points, and Baby Boomers rank it highest at 83%, saying it’s good or excellent vs. 57% of Gen Z saying the same.
Gen Z spends the most amount of time on social media, so the notion that social media negatively affects mental health appears to be correlated. Unfortunately, Gen Z is also the generation that’s least comfortable discussing mental health concerns with healthcare professionals. Only 40% of them state they’re comfortable discussing their issues with a professional compared to 60% of Millennials and 65% of Boomers.
Race Affects Attitudes
As seen in previous research conducted by ThinkNow, Asian Americans lag other groups when it comes to awareness of mental health issues. Twenty-four percent of Asian Americans believe that having a mental health issue is a sign of weakness compared to the 16% average for all groups. Asians are also considerably less likely to be aware of mental health services in their communities (42% vs. 55%) and most likely to seek out information on social media (51% vs. 35%).
AI Trends in Creative Operations 2024 by Artwork Flow.pdfmarketingartwork
Creative operations teams expect increased AI use in 2024. Currently, over half of tasks are not AI-enabled, but this is expected to decrease in the coming year. ChatGPT is the most popular AI tool currently. Business leaders are more actively exploring AI benefits than individual contributors. Most respondents do not believe AI will impact workforce size in 2024. However, some inhibitions still exist around AI accuracy and lack of understanding. Creatives primarily want to use AI to save time on mundane tasks and boost productivity.
Organizational culture includes values, norms, systems, symbols, language, assumptions, beliefs, and habits that influence employee behaviors and how people interpret those behaviors. It is important because culture can help or hinder a company's success. Some key aspects of Netflix's culture that help it achieve results include hiring smartly so every position has stars, focusing on attitude over just aptitude, and having a strict policy against peacocks, whiners, and jerks.
PEPSICO Presentation to CAGNY Conference Feb 2024Neil Kimberley
PepsiCo provided a safe harbor statement noting that any forward-looking statements are based on currently available information and are subject to risks and uncertainties. It also provided information on non-GAAP measures and directing readers to its website for disclosure and reconciliation. The document then discussed PepsiCo's business overview, including that it is a global beverage and convenient food company with iconic brands, $91 billion in net revenue in 2023, and nearly $14 billion in core operating profit. It operates through a divisional structure with a focus on local consumers.
Content Methodology: A Best Practices Report (Webinar)contently
This document provides an overview of content methodology best practices. It defines content methodology as establishing objectives, KPIs, and a culture of continuous learning and iteration. An effective methodology focuses on connecting with audiences, creating optimal content, and optimizing processes. It also discusses why a methodology is needed due to the competitive landscape, proliferation of channels, and opportunities for improvement. Components of an effective methodology include defining objectives and KPIs, audience analysis, identifying opportunities, and evaluating resources. The document concludes with recommendations around creating a content plan, testing and optimizing content over 90 days.
How to Prepare For a Successful Job Search for 2024Albert Qian
The document provides guidance on preparing a job search for 2024. It discusses the state of the job market, focusing on growth in AI and healthcare but also continued layoffs. It recommends figuring out what you want to do by researching interests and skills, then conducting informational interviews. The job search should involve building a personal brand on LinkedIn, actively applying to jobs, tailoring resumes and interviews, maintaining job hunting as a habit, and continuing self-improvement. Once hired, the document advises setting new goals and keeping skills and networking active in case of future opportunities.
A report by thenetworkone and Kurio.
The contributing experts and agencies are (in an alphabetical order): Sylwia Rytel, Social Media Supervisor, 180heartbeats + JUNG v MATT (PL), Sharlene Jenner, Vice President - Director of Engagement Strategy, Abelson Taylor (USA), Alex Casanovas, Digital Director, Atrevia (ES), Dora Beilin, Senior Social Strategist, Barrett Hoffher (USA), Min Seo, Campaign Director, Brand New Agency (KR), Deshé M. Gully, Associate Strategist, Day One Agency (USA), Francesca Trevisan, Strategist, Different (IT), Trevor Crossman, CX and Digital Transformation Director; Olivia Hussey, Strategic Planner; Simi Srinarula, Social Media Manager, The Hallway (AUS), James Hebbert, Managing Director, Hylink (CN / UK), Mundy Álvarez, Planning Director; Pedro Rojas, Social Media Manager; Pancho González, CCO, Inbrax (CH), Oana Oprea, Head of Digital Planning, Jam Session Agency (RO), Amy Bottrill, Social Account Director, Launch (UK), Gaby Arriaga, Founder, Leonardo1452 (MX), Shantesh S Row, Creative Director, Liwa (UAE), Rajesh Mehta, Chief Strategy Officer; Dhruv Gaur, Digital Planning Lead; Leonie Mergulhao, Account Supervisor - Social Media & PR, Medulla (IN), Aurelija Plioplytė, Head of Digital & Social, Not Perfect (LI), Daiana Khaidargaliyeva, Account Manager, Osaka Labs (UK / USA), Stefanie Söhnchen, Vice President Digital, PIABO Communications (DE), Elisabeth Winiartati, Managing Consultant, Head of Global Integrated Communications; Lydia Aprina, Account Manager, Integrated Marketing and Communications; Nita Prabowo, Account Manager, Integrated Marketing and Communications; Okhi, Web Developer, PNTR Group (ID), Kei Obusan, Insights Director; Daffi Ranandi, Insights Manager, Radarr (SG), Gautam Reghunath, Co-founder & CEO, Talented (IN), Donagh Humphreys, Head of Social and Digital Innovation, THINKHOUSE (IRE), Sarah Yim, Strategy Director, Zulu Alpha Kilo (CA).
Trends In Paid Search: Navigating The Digital Landscape In 2024Search Engine Journal
The search marketing landscape is evolving rapidly with new technologies, and professionals, like you, rely on innovative paid search strategies to meet changing demands.
It’s important that you’re ready to implement new strategies in 2024.
Check this out and learn the top trends in paid search advertising that are expected to gain traction, so you can drive higher ROI more efficiently in 2024.
You’ll learn:
- The latest trends in AI and automation, and what this means for an evolving paid search ecosystem.
- New developments in privacy and data regulation.
- Emerging ad formats that are expected to make an impact next year.
Watch Sreekant Lanka from iQuanti and Irina Klein from OneMain Financial as they dive into the future of paid search and explore the trends, strategies, and technologies that will shape the search marketing landscape.
If you’re looking to assess your paid search strategy and design an industry-aligned plan for 2024, then this webinar is for you.
5 Public speaking tips from TED - Visualized summarySpeakerHub
From their humble beginnings in 1984, TED has grown into the world’s most powerful amplifier for speakers and thought-leaders to share their ideas. They have over 2,400 filmed talks (not including the 30,000+ TEDx videos) freely available online, and have hosted over 17,500 events around the world.
With over one billion views in a year, it’s no wonder that so many speakers are looking to TED for ideas on how to share their message more effectively.
The article “5 Public-Speaking Tips TED Gives Its Speakers”, by Carmine Gallo for Forbes, gives speakers five practical ways to connect with their audience, and effectively share their ideas on stage.
Whether you are gearing up to get on a TED stage yourself, or just want to master the skills that so many of their speakers possess, these tips and quotes from Chris Anderson, the TED Talks Curator, will encourage you to make the most impactful impression on your audience.
See the full article and more summaries like this on SpeakerHub here: https://speakerhub.com/blog/5-presentation-tips-ted-gives-its-speakers
See the original article on Forbes here:
http://www.forbes.com/forbes/welcome/?toURL=http://www.forbes.com/sites/carminegallo/2016/05/06/5-public-speaking-tips-ted-gives-its-speakers/&refURL=&referrer=#5c07a8221d9b
ChatGPT and the Future of Work - Clark Boyd Clark Boyd
Everyone is in agreement that ChatGPT (and other generative AI tools) will shape the future of work. Yet there is little consensus on exactly how, when, and to what extent this technology will change our world.
Businesses that extract maximum value from ChatGPT will use it as a collaborative tool for everything from brainstorming to technical maintenance.
For individuals, now is the time to pinpoint the skills the future professional will need to thrive in the AI age.
Check out this presentation to understand what ChatGPT is, how it will shape the future of work, and how you can prepare to take advantage.
The document provides career advice for getting into the tech field, including:
- Doing projects and internships in college to build a portfolio.
- Learning about different roles and technologies through industry research.
- Contributing to open source projects to build experience and network.
- Developing a personal brand through a website and social media presence.
- Networking through events, communities, and finding a mentor.
- Practicing interviews through mock interviews and whiteboarding coding questions.
Google's Just Not That Into You: Understanding Core Updates & Search IntentLily Ray
1. Core updates from Google periodically change how its algorithms assess and rank websites and pages. This can impact rankings through shifts in user intent, site quality issues being caught up to, world events influencing queries, and overhauls to search like the E-A-T framework.
2. There are many possible user intents beyond just transactional, navigational and informational. Identifying intent shifts is important during core updates. Sites may need to optimize for new intents through different content types and sections.
3. Responding effectively to core updates requires analyzing "before and after" data to understand changes, identifying new intents or page types, and ensuring content matches appropriate intents across video, images, knowledge graphs and more.
A brief introduction to DataScience with explaining of the concepts, algorithms, machine learning, supervised and unsupervised learning, clustering, statistics, data preprocessing, real-world applications etc.
It's part of a Data Science Corner Campaign where I will be discussing the fundamentals of DataScience, AIML, Statistics etc.
Time Management & Productivity - Best PracticesVit Horky
Here's my presentation on by proven best practices how to manage your work time effectively and how to improve your productivity. It includes practical tips and how to use tools such as Slack, Google Apps, Hubspot, Google Calendar, Gmail and others.
The six step guide to practical project managementMindGenius
The six step guide to practical project management
If you think managing projects is too difficult, think again.
We’ve stripped back project management processes to the
basics – to make it quicker and easier, without sacrificing
the vital ingredients for success.
“If you’re looking for some real-world guidance, then The Six Step Guide to Practical Project Management will help.”
Dr Andrew Makar, Tactical Project Management
Beginners Guide to TikTok for Search - Rachel Pearson - We are Tilt __ Bright...
Oh and two
1. “No one wants to go down to Tuc-
son in the summer. . .” It’s the opening
salvo in Mel Tellis’ song “Send Me Down
1
Oh and Two
by D. R. Jenkins
2. To Tucson.” The song is based on a
truth though it is a country fable
memorialized. It is Hotter-than-Hades
in Tucson in the summertime. Surely,
on that fact, consensus prevails.
I can feel the sun beating on the back
of my neck for each summer I’ve lived
here; like an amalgamation of
sunburns. In modern times, most Tuc-
son folks avoid the heat of day. They
live in air conditioned homes, work in
air conditioned offices, and migrate
from one to the other in air conditioned
cars.
This proposition does not hold true
for youngsters. Girls and boys, once re-
leased for the summer from school yard
2
3. prisons find beauty in heat; a freedom
quenching thirsts. I proved to be no dif-
ferent in summer 1962. It was one of
the two summers I played little league.
Not just for any little league team, but
for Tucson Federal Savings. I know, it
sounds like we were little league champi-
ons of the universe. We were not. We
were just one of several teams in the
Frontier Little League; a collection of
neighborhood boys of no significance.
Allow me to introduce myself before
we migrate too far down an anonymous
road. My name is Ritchie Jackson.
While not known as such in 1962, my
high school and college chums crowned
me “Itchie Ritchie Jackson.” They
3
4. claimed I was always “itchin’” for
trouble. I still wear that moniker these
days, now transcending the year 2011.
Today, I am an educated sort; Doctor
of Philosophy in something or another.
Exactly what matters not for purposes of
telling this story; just know I’m a philoso-
phizing sort. I always like to recount sto-
ries in my life endowed with a certain
sense of ethics. That’s what I am about
to do now. But, here’s the catch: You,
the reader, have to figure out the ethics
underpinning this story. However, I will
send you on your way with a clue in
hand.
If you knew Itchie Ritchie like I know
Itchie Ritchie, you’d probably conclude
4
5. the ethics lesson has something to do
with a woman. You’d be right. How-
ever, the lesson in loving this woman
comes by recounting a little league story
occurring in my youth some fifteen years
before she was born. What a little
league story has to do with loving her is
an odyssey in the mythological tradition
of the Great Greek Philosophers. With
clue in hand, enjoy the story and argue
about its metaphorical implications.
Now, for the record, let’s return to
summer 1962, the Tucson-based Fron-
tier Little League, and my team, Tucson
Federal Savings. Remember, it’s hotter
than hell in Tucson in the summertime;
easy to get sunburnt.
5
6. Miraculously, I graduated sixth
grade from John B. Wright Elementary
School somewhere between end of May
and beginning of June 1962. As a result,
I was on my way to seventh grade at
Doolen Junior High. The summer inter-
vened and that meant little league. All
boys my age in the neighborhood were
signing up to play little league that
summer. I wasn’t about to be left be-
hind, so I enlisted as well.
It seemed to be a huge operation.
The entire Frontier Little League played
at Catalina High School, not too far from
the Jackson family headquarters oper-
ated by my then single mother. The first
day of the season, the entire league con-
6
7. gregated on one of the school’s athletic
fields. It seemed there was an ocean of
guys between 8 and 12 years old, all
ready to play ball.
The little league gods found it their
province to ordain my presence on the
Tucson Federal Savings team. Our uni-
forms were light gray with yellow letter-
ing spelling out Tucson Federal Savings
across the chest. We donned yellow
baseball caps. I was awarded mine with
the advisory I could keep the ball cap.
But, at season’s end, I would have to re-
turn the uniform.
We broke out into our teams and gath-
ered around our head coach. He was a
know-it-all (my present day reflective
7
8. characterization) by the name of Monty
Carlson. Monty went through various ex-
ercises to determine everyone’s relevant
skill set.
My teammates tried out for pitcher
or outfielder; or aspired to play first
base, second base, third base, or short
stop. But, no one in particular wanted
to be the catcher. As fate would have it
and since my skill set failed to qualify
me for any other position, the odd job of
being the team catcher befell my yet-to-
be-developed philosophical ass. That is,
I was cast by fate to play behind the
plate as the Tucson Federal Savings little
league catcher during summer 1962.
8
9. There are a few unique aspects in be-
ing the team catcher. First, your gear is
different than every other position.
Sure, the first base guy had a different
fielding glove than other infield and out-
field positions; but that’s not as special
as all the stuff I had to wear to get the
job done. Like the first baseman, my
glove was also different than all the
other infielders and outfielders. It was
round with a wide catching area in the
middle.
The catcher is the only player on the
field to wear protective equipment.
Back in those days, the catcher’s mask
was simply a padded steel grate attached
to your face with two or three nylon
9
10. straps. To be appropriately cool, the
reigning fashion statement handed
down from the Big Leagues involved the
catcher wearing his ball cap backwards
with its bill pointing more down than
back.
Of course, an important part of a
catcher’s style is determined by his pa-
nache in offing that mask, either to
throw out a devious base runner or to
call off all on-comers to catch the peri-
odic pop-fly. The fling of the mask is
critical. The aspiring catcher’s declara-
tion he will someday be celebrated at
Cooperstown is measured by the author-
ity by which that mask hits the dirt and
raises a cloud of dust.
10
11. Catchers wear shin guards. Shin
guards are not worn just behind the
plate. When standing in the next-at-bat
circle along the baseline, the prepared
catcher will have already donned his
shin guards—just in case two outs be-
come three. After all, fastening those
shin guards takes an inordinate amount
of time and the catcher does not want to
become persona non grata out of hold-
ing up the game’s progress.
The last visible form of protection
worn by the catcher is his chest
protector. The ribbed cover protects
shoulders, chest and abdomen. The pro-
tector does allow the catcher’s arms to
wield freely; enabling that rocket throw
11
12. to second base. The key word is “ena-
bling.”
But, I would be remiss in this tale of
ethics if I didn’t share the catcher’s hid-
den secrets. On the first day our team
met, Coach Carlson said, “All right ‘fel-
las,’ gather round. The league has pro-
vided your uniform and ball cap. How-
ever, league regulations require each
player to wear a jock strap; an athletic
supporter. You have to buy it.” Giggles
could be heard everywhere.
“What’s a jock strap?” I wondered to
nobody but yours truly. It’s one of those
things defining an emerging manhood I
came to find out.
12
13. Then coach turned to me and broad-
casted for my teammates’ benefit, “Jack-
son, league rules require catchers wear a
cup, too.”
“What’s a cup? And, how does it re-
late to a jock strap?” My quiet investiga-
tion ensued.
In the next day or so, my Mother
took me to a sporting goods store. If you
think shopping for a jock strap and a cup
with your Mother was a 1962 rage,
you’re wrong! So, into the store Mother
and I ventured.
This story now accounts for my first
encounter with an athletic supporter.
Sure, I was like any other soon-to-be 12
year old. I was becoming increasingly cu-
13
14. rious about my manhood and all its at-
tendant apparatuses. But, it was during
this shopping excursion I discovered
just how important my manhood and its
buddies must be. This wasn’t an option;
the goddamned Frontier Little League
declared by regulation that my package
was so important it had to be protected.
It got worse. My Mother wasn’t
really all that familiar with a cup. She
was just informed concerning the incre-
mental requirement catcher’s be pro-
tected by the unknown device. I could
hear coach’s voice again, “Jackson,
league rules require catches wear a cup,
too.”
14
15. Mother said, “Let’s get an assistant,
Honey.”
That’s all I needed: assistance from
someone to help me with protecting my
manhood and friends. Mother’s prefer-
ence prevailed. The assistant arrived.
He was probably 5 to 7 years older than
me. He looked me over and turned to
my Mother enquiring, “Yes Ma’am, may
I help you?”
“Yes, please. My son is a little league
catcher and is required to wear a cup
while playing baseball.” Mother said
without a clue as to my crushing embar-
rassment.
Then the asshole started looking at
the location of my manhood. “I think I
15
16. know what size he needs,” the brilliant
clerk replied.
He walked a few feet down the aisle
and reached up and pulled down a small-
ish box. Of all things, he opened the box
and pulled this grey hard plastic thing
out; it had a ring of white rubber tracing
its edges. I started looking around the
store to make sure no one else was
watching this debacle.
“You want to try this on little fel-
low?” He asked.
“No. It looks all right to me. It
‘ought ta’ fit.” I desperately proclaimed
in my hurry to get to the checkout and
the hell out of there.
16
17. However, the store clerk had nothing
to do with my desperation. He turned to
Mother and advised, “This requires a
special athletic supporter, Ma’am.” I
glanced down at my clothed manhood as
if to cuss out its now well known
importance. The ordeal wasn’t about to
get over with any time soon.
Fortunately, the clerk took only an-
other step forward and looked at an ar-
ray of different boxes. He again looked
at me; but, not so much at the location
of my manhood this time. “This looks
like it will work,” he said as he took a par-
ticular box off the shelf. Again, against
all my embarrassment, he opened the
box and this dangling conflagration of
17
18. white material made its appearance; one
for anyone up and down the aisle to
witness.
I could immediately understand the
appropriateness of the term “strap” in la-
beling the contraption; there were two
dancing in symmetry around a mound of
material with snaps on it. Announcing
this particular form of athletic supporter
was uniquely fashioned for holding the
cup; the clerk then took the rubber
rimmed plastic device and inserted it
into the mound of white material and fas-
tened the snaps while announcing in too
loud a voice toward my direction, “See,
you put the cup in here and fasten these
snaps. Then you put it on.” The bastard
18
19. looked toward my manhood again. If I
was just a wee bit bigger I would’ve
punched the nosy asshole.
Mother then took both items and
said, “Let’s go.” She paid the bill and we
left.
The next time the Tucson Federal
Savings team met for practice, Coach
Carlson asked, “Everyone get their jock
straps? Got ‘em on? Jackson, you
wearin’ that cup?” Fortunately, the
crowded affirmative declaration
drowned out the shaking of my head in
the same direction.
From that day on, Ritchie Jackson,
the Tucson Federal Savings 1962
catcher, had his manhood and friends
19
20. protected by some inventor’s license. I
never came to a practice or game with-
out it.
In between such events, Mother
made me wash the cupholder myself;
saying, “Ritchie, you have to learn to
take care of your own things.” We’ll just
assume she was referring to keeping the
strap clean.
Summer 1962 seemed unending
both in duration and heat. On those
rare game days where the outcome was
in our favor, Coach Carlson took the en-
tire team to the local Tastee Freeze for
an ice cream cone. Anyone hitting a
home run got a double. But, as I say, it
didn’t seem to be fated by the little
20
21. league gods and goddesses that 1962
would be my team’s banner year.
The best team in the league was
Dave’s Towing. Everyone knew the rea-
son for their unrivaled success. The
team’s star pitcher was a purported 12
year old who looked like he was 18.
We’d played Dave’s Towing a couple of
times before the season wound down to
a merciful finish. Each time, Tucson
Federal Savings got trounced.
No one could hit that pitcher. He
was so big; he dwarfed the size of the
baseball diamond. His reached closed
the distance to the plate. I’d swear there
was only a three foot distance between
his hand releasing the speeding fastball
21
22. and home plate. “Who could swing fast
enough to hit it?” was the team’s collec-
tive lament. This pitching behemoth
was an annoyance. He seemed to unilat-
erally ruin everyone’s summer.
Unfortunately for Tucson Federal
Savings, the last game of the season had
us playing Dave’s Towing. Once again
we were doomed to face the behemoth
and his three foot fastball.
You have to understand one thing
about Ritchie Jackson’s little league
career: It was completely lackluster. I
was the worst hitter on the team and al-
ways batted in the ninth position. The
last game of the season brokered no
22
23. surprise: “Jackson,” Coach Carlson an-
nounced, “Catcher, batting ninth.”
As fate would have it, Tucson Fed-
eral Savings was losing handily to Dave’s
Towing in its last little league game of
the season. Mercifully, the last inning ar-
rived with two outs already registered
for completion. Not so mercifully, yours
truly, Ritchie Jackson, the Tucson Fed-
eral Savings 1962 catcher had to come to
the plate for what was sure to be the last
at-bat of the season. You guessed it; my
manhood protector naturally came
along.
The world closed in; mostly due to
the behemoth’s size. It was the behe-
moth, his brother, Dave’s Towing’s
23
24. catcher, the umpire, and me. The bat-
ter’s box was already well worn for the
day. I had my head protecting batter’s
helmet on and, for once, I was glad that
damned plastic thing with its rimmed
rubber padding was secure between my
legs.
It seemed the 29 inch baseball bat
shrunk to the size of a matchstick com-
pared to the behemoth’s stature. Every-
one assumed a readiness I did not. It’s
like a train wreck coming at you in slow
motion: You can’t stop it, you can only
endure it.
The behemoth affected his incom-
plete wind-up and threw his right hand
at me like he intended to punch me in
24
25. the jaw. All of a sudden, a little white
sphere appeared and instantly made a
loud snapping sound as it met the
brother’s mitt. The result was obvious,
“Steeeeeerike One!” bellowed the um-
pire for the crowd’s uproarious
pleasure.
I was glad the first strike was over; re-
lief began to sink in as I realized the sum-
mer and this ordeal were both just about
over. The behemoth was relentless. The
asshole even sported a heavy beard.
“Twelve years old my ass,” the empirical
evidence concluded.
The half wind-up ensued. The same
procedure followed. The fist heading to-
ward my face let go the little sphere at
25
26. the last. I blinked. Pow! “Steeeeeeerike
Two! The count is now ‘Oh and Two’,”
announced the umpire for the crowd’s
spirituous participation.
“Only one more of those to go,” I
relieved. The behemoth’s catching
brother then got into the act. Ordinar-
ily, all cup-wearing catchers would ex-
hibit informal support for similarly clad
brethren. However, the behemoth’s
brother had a mouth that rivaled his
pitching brother’s stature. I turned to
look him in the eye when he said, “Hey,
buddy!” He condescended to me, “he
puts it in the same place every time. You
still can’t hit it.”
26
27. I looked at the contrails still linger-
ing from the last two fastballs and sized
up the spot. I took my 29 inch
matchstick and swirled those contrails
to practice the location. My muscle
memory satisfied, I perched the bat up
toward my right shoulder ready for the
behemoth’s final assault.
By now, the half wind-up was sure to
be a registered trademark. The behe-
moth accordingly forecasted hell’s fury
arriving. His right fist hurling toward
my face opened once again; the blurring
baseball appeared a split second before
my swing began. Damn it all, Ritchie
Jackson wasn’t going down without a
27
28. fight. I swung through those contrails
preceding.
There was a different noise this
time: Whack! I felt a surging thud in
my hands as my arms swung through
the devil’s mandate. I watched the little
white sphere take off for the
stratosphere. All right, maybe some-
thing short of that. Concomitantly, my
peripheral vision caught the entire Tuc-
son Federal Savings team come flying off
their collective asses as the baseball
cleared the outfield fence by two feet.
I knew I hit a home run as my
catcher required manhood protector and
I made the horns of the three bases and
headed toward home plate. My team-
28
29. mates crowded my arrival. Though we
lost the game, there was much to cele-
brate as the worst hitter on the team was
the only player to hit a home run off the
behemoth the entire season.
That’s it my friends. That’s the entire
story. I will leave the interpretation of
Wisdom’s truth your decipherment as
we part company. I’m sure some of you
are scratching your heads wondering,
“What does buying a cup protector and
hitting the team’s only home run off the
behemoth pitcher have to do with the
beauty of loving a woman?” God, I love
those Greek Philosophers.
29