Few things in our lives unite people the way sports can. Ninety-five percent of the time, sports unite the communities and regions which make up specific fan bases. Whether it’s Racer Nation, Hockey Town or Cardinal Country, sports have a way of bringing together people of all different demographics, careers and life stages. Every now Read More
I have decided to postpone the final column in The Murray State Tradition series to discuss a topic of far greater importance this week. Over the last several days, an incredibly disturbing and disappointing story has emerged out of the Miami Dolphins’ locker room. Jonathan Martin, a second-year tackle, left the team last week after Read More
When we look at the success of Murray State athletics today, there are a few key individuals to whom much credit is owed. Bennie Purcell is certainly near the top of the list. Purcell left his hometown of Mount Vernon, Ill., in 1948 to become a part of the then “Thoroughbred” basketball team. Purcell was Read More
It’s almost that time of year again, Racer basketball fans. Last January, I used my columns for a four-part Murray State Tradition series highlighting some key figures in our basketball history. It all started with an assignment for which I had to examine the question of why basketball is so popular in Murray. As I Read More
I don’t think I’ve ever enjoyed covering a Murray State football game more than I did last Saturday night at Jacksonville State. I have to admit, I wasn’t all that excited when my editor asked me to give up a precious day of Fall Break to make the long drive to the backwoods of Alabama Read More
When September rolls around each year, a peculiar phenomenon occurs in America. From Saturday morning to Monday night, American sports fans seem to have only one thing on their minds. Football. College, professional, it doesn’t matter to me. Once the temperatures cool down and the days start getting shorter, all is forsaken for the obsession Read More
This time last year, Racer football was back. The 2012 team was supposed to be the one to finally make a run at an Ohio Valley Conference title. Unfortunately, the team fell short. A shaky defense and some bad luck left it with a 5-6 record. Entering 2013, Head Coach Chris Hatcher and his staff Read More
As I sit here in my lifeguard bathing suit, finishing the final shift of the summer job, I can’t help but get a little giddy when I think about packing up my car, hugging the parents goodbye and speeding up I-24 back to “America’s Friendliest Small Town.” As much as I’ve enjoyed scolding teenage boys Read More