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Derek Schooley, RMU Hockey Coach

Derek Schooley, RMU Hockey Coach:

First, can you let readers know a bit about your coaching career – how you got started in coaching?

When I was playing my coach in junior hockey, Frank Serratore always mentioned to me that I would be a good coach as I had a good amount of hockey sense, so I started coaching in the NAHL junior hockey league in Chicago right after my playing career.

Later that year, I had an opportunity to go to Cornell as a third assistant coach and then the following year we moved to Colorado Springs where I worked at the Air Force Academy, where I was then able to work for my former junior coach in Frank Serratore. After five years there as the top assistant, I was fortunate to get the Head Coaching job at RMU.

What coaches and coaching lessons have influenced you most in your career so far, and how so?

As I mentioned before, the Head Coach at Air Force, Frank Serratore has been a major influence in my coaching career. I learned so much from him about how to treat your assistant coaches, how to be yourself and numerous life lessons that can be applied daily.

I was working with future leaders in our military and they also taught me so much about work ethic, sacrifice and how to conduct yourself as people away from the ice.

The program has continued to improve over the past few seasons – what do you attribute this to and where do you see the hockey program in the next few years?

We have very good people in our program and they have a tremendous work ethic. They have a desire to continue to improve this program and they have a vested interest in making the program better every year. We graduate ten seniors this year so our goal will be to continue getting better every year even with a young team.

We don’t ever want to rebuild. We want to reload.

You have have 10 seniors graduating this year. How difficult was the last-minute loss to Niagara in the playoffs for you and them especially?

This class is the all time winningest class in program over a four-year period. They are a great group that have experienced numerous highs and lows. They are great friends and get along so well. We will miss this group for what they bring in work ethic, determination and character.

We are very proud to call these ten alumni of the program and I know they will be successful in whatever they choose to do.

How do you replace that senior leadership and play next season?

It will be a challenge. We will need the returning players to step up and take over this team as leaders. The returners have been a group that has been behind a great group of leaders. We will be excited to see some of the younger guys step out of their shadow and embrace a leadership role.

We are expecting numerous players to take on the leadership of this team that haven’t had the opportunity to be “leaders.” Everyone who returns has leadership qualities and it is time for them to step up.

How difficult has it been recruiting players to play in the Pittsburgh area and how do you overcome those obstacles?

It isn’t that difficult to recruit players to Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh is a wonderful city and a great area to live in. The city is growing in reputation, and there is so much to do. It is becoming a “Hockey Town” and Pittsburgh is a major selling point of our recruiting. It has the feel of a small town with numerous big city attractions.

We have had numerous Pittsburgh natives play for our program, and we would like to keep this “best” local players at home in Pittsburgh. The sport is growing here and Robert Morris lets good players have a Division I opportunity (only DI program in Pittsburgh area) while still staying close enough to home that family and supporters can continue to cheer for them.

Do the Pittsburgh Penguins get involved at all in the program? Either way, how has their success helped your program?

The Penguins have been great to our program. We play games at Consol Energy Center with their support. We are co-hosting the Frozen Four in 2013, and the staff has been great in dealing with this large event.

The Penguins are about growing hockey and having them on board with our program is a big benefit. I can’t thank the Pens enough for everything they have done for us and hockey in the area. The Lemieux and Crosby eras have had a big effect on local hockey and hopefully someday, we will have the first born and raised RMU alum playing for the Penguins or in the NHL.

Tell readers how important nationally-ranked goalie Brooks Ostergard has been to the program?

Brooks has been very good for our program. He came in as a third goalie walk on and took the starting job as freshman. He was national player of the week when we swept #1 Miami and has been an all-league goalie.

He leaves here as the best goalie in program history not only through his stats but through his accomplishments.

What’s the key to taking the next big step for the program?

Our goal every year is to get to the NCAA Tournament and we will not rest until we achieve that goal. We have been close twice (losing in overtime twice in our league championship game).

We have to continue to work to get then best players here. We have to get them bigger, stronger and faster. We have to improve every year. That goal drives our program, and we will continue to work until we get there.

What have been some of your best memories to date as Robert Morris’ head coach, and what makes them so?

We have had many big wins against ranked opponents. We beat #2 Notre Dame, #8 Boston University and swept #1 Miami. Those are all great memories and they are all signature program wins but my favorite memory was winning our first game as a program in 2004. We were a group of freshman and a first-year head coach that went on the road to beat an established program. Nobody was expecting us to win any games that year but to win our first was exciting and put us on the map in our first game.

Any last thoughts for readers?

College hockey is a great game. It is fast, exciting and competitive. The players “sell out” every game and nothing is left in their tank. Our sport is growing in popularity and attendance wise every year, but I am not sure everyone out there knows that future NHL players are playing at the Island Sports Center daily.

We have had numerous NHL players play on opposing teams and we have a few alumni that are close to making it on the big stage. Come out and watch us play–you will be hooked on college hockey and our product. Go Colonials!

E. Lee North, Author, Battling the Indians, Panthers & Nittany Lions: Washington & Jefferson College’s Century of Football, 1890-1990

E. Lee North:

First, can you tell readers a bit about your writing career and how you got started as an author? What about your time at Washington & Jefferson influenced your writing career, and how?

Well, I have said it was W & J that got me into writing, as I was editor of The Red and Black for a couple of years and did a lot of work on our old Alumni Bulletin. But not too long ago I found my diary for the year 1941; I was a senior at Bay Shore, LI, NY High School.

Why, I do not know, but I recorded just about everything from January 1st into September, 1941. That was one of the most critical years in US history — along with 1776, 1861, 1929, and 2001. Author House published the diary a few months ago as “The 1941 Diary of a Deaf Long Island Teenager.” But there is no question that the work at W & J propelled me ahead into the literary world.

Your new book “Battling the Indians, Panthers & Nittany Lions: Washington & Jefferson College’s Century of Football, 1890-1990” covers W&J’s football history – what inspired you to write this book and what are some lessons/stories about the program you were most anxious to get across to readers?

I was lucky to enroll at W & J, particularly since I was brought up in New York. My Dad, Lt. Col. Edward L. North, fought in both world wars but moved from civil engineering to management at Wheeling Steel in 1942–before he re-joined the Army for WW II..

W & J was close by, so I visited, and was accepted. I not only learned of some of the Presidents’ athletic and educational super-stars, I met some, particularly Wilbur F. “Pete” Henry, our athletic director. Although he was an all-time All-American football player, at W & J and in the pros, he was one of the most unassuming gentlemen I ever met. I had to put a whole chapter on Pete in “Battling” to tell his story.

Many may not realize how many modern day connections there are between this small school and today’s NFL. Roger Goodell, Dan Rooney, Dan Rooney Jr. all attended W&J, as did Green Bay’s former offensive coordinator Joe Philbin. How did W&J end up having such an impact?

Going back to W & J’s early football years, despite an enrollment of under 500 students (and we were all-men til 1970), the Presidents competed with Pitt, Penn State, West Virginia, and many other top gridiron elevens. I think Coach Bob Folwell (1912 to 1915) was one of the finest football coaches ever, anywhere.

After graduating from Penn, where he was a star and football captain, he started coaching at Lafayette in 1908. As did W & J, Lafayette took on the grid powers. Coach Folwell led them (1908-11) to a 22-4-1 record and they were ranked with the top teams. Enter W & J’s great Graduate Manager Robert Murphy: he heard the rumors that Coach Folwell was not happy with the situation at Lafayette.

Somehow Manager Murphy convinced Folwell to switch to W & J. In his four years at Jay (1912 through 1915) , Folwell’s teams won 35, lost four, and tied three. But did they play anybody good? Well as examples, they beat Pitt three times in four games, and won two and tied one in three games with West Virginia.

Folwell went on to coach at Penn and Navy, and coached the NY Giants first football team in 1925. Health problems forced him out of football in the 1920s. Noted football statistician Tex Noel lists Folwell as one of the top five college coaches.

How did you go about researching this book – who helped and were you able to work with any of the people you wrote about in the book?

I received help from dozens of people in doing the Hundred-Year history… since we contacted every team W & J ever played (still extant), we managed to include inside information on many of the stars W & J played against.

From the W & J side, I have to salute then-Pres. Howard Burnett, Athletic Director Paul Reardon, and publicists Ed Marotta and Susan Isola. And Coack John Luckhardt provided tremendous help (see Ch. 17 and 18. I did list more than one hundred helpers in Appendix I (“Acknowledgments.”) BTW, I searched through many athletic histories in libraries, and believe ours has the most comprehensive index of all.

What were some of the biggest surprises you came across as you researched the book?

To be honest, it was one surprise after another, all the way from W & J’s season of 1890 thru most of the 1930s. How could this little college compete — and beat — so many great football teams? I think it was a combination of western Pennsylvania athletes; people who dedicated themselves to the Red and Black; and especially – Grad Manager Robert Murphy, so dedicated he mortgaged his house to get the funds to take his family to his own Rose Bowl game.

How can readers purchase the book?

Contact the Book Store, W & J College, 60 So. Lincoln St., Washington, PA 15301. Also, the publisher, Daring Books, Canton, OH. And it’s listed on the internet outlets.

There were dozens of NFL players from this small school that played in the 20’s and 30’s – why was this the case and who were some of the most notable players from that era?

Again, I think it was dedicated people— the coaches and administrators, who sought out and trained W & J’s football players. And the fact that western PA has always been a fertile ground for football talent.

Our most noted gridders would include Pete Henry, Clark Shrontz, John Spiegel (led nation in scoring in 1913), Britt Patterson, Bill Inglis, Forrest “Jap” Douds (blocked THREE punts in a West Virginia game), Burlieigh Cruikshank, Bill Amos, Russ Goodwin, Scrubby McCreight, Charles “Pruner” West, and — maybe the best of them all — Hal “Swede” Ericksen, played 1919-22 including the Rose Bowl.

Alas, there are really a hundred W & J players who could be added to the list, please see our Chapter 19, wherein we list the best players by position and list our top opponent players.

You were the Publicity Director at Washington & Jefferson for a while as well. What are some of the interesting experiences you had in that role?

There were many, but I’ll just mention four—

1/ that trip to Forbes Field and the press box with Pete Henry;

2/ W & J put forth plans for perhaps the first “green” study in the country. Our office got a lot of publicity out of it. It was to be an environmental program and would be funded mostly by the state. Plans were approved by the state legislature… BUT our Board of Trustees turned it down! I was a bit disappointed, but in retrospect, believe the Board did the right thing, they did not want the state to start running our school.

3/ President Jim Case asked me one day if I’d go to Pittsburgh with him to a Board meeting. Of course I agreed. It was in a nice old hotel as I recall, with one of those long oval tables. Purpose of the meeting was I believe for President Case to defend his “overspending.” Case was adamant in explaining “G D it, we have to go ahead, we cannot go back,” and more words to that effect. I was a bit of a 24-year-old neophyte, but I worried that Case would be gone. He soon was.

4/ Invited to speak at a youth affair, I walked up stairs to the meeting behind Honus Wagner, the Pirates’ Hall Of Fame shortstop. I’d heard that he was quite bow-legged. It was true, I could see people up ahead while looking up through Honus’s legs. What an honor!

Are you a Yankees fan as a New Yorker now? I know you are a big Pirates fan after living in Western PA for a while.What are your thoughts on the Pirates today – do you see real progress being made?

No, no, I am not a Yank fan, that was only in my teen years. Since I went to W & J and Pennsylvania, I’ve been for the Pirates. Loved those “Lumber Company” (Stargell and all) signs we used to see by the airport. Recent years have been terrible for the Bucs, but there’s always a next year. I do think they’ll improve a lot this year.

Any new books on the horizon?

Mentioned the new 1941 Diary above. In addition, I’m working on a wolf book. My “EYES THAT HAUNT” novel was published a few years ago, It’s a story of a man saving a wolf from a trap, and the wolf later returning the favor. We’ve gotten some nice reviews, but the best was from W & J President Tori Haring-Smith: “Thanks for your wonderful book, Eyes That Haunt.

As you may know, I am an animal lover, and the relationship between Trapper and Kai-No [our wolf] is beautifully drawn.”

In response to your question, I’m working on a sequel to “”EYES”… they’re shooting the wolves from airplanes and helicopters in Alaska, and I’m hoping my Trapper and his little wolf pack can put an end to it.

Any last thoughts for readers?

I hope they can find a copy of “Battling” — it’s in some libraries and last I knew, the College has more for sale.

Thanks, Pittsburgh Sports Daily, for having me.

Pat Cavanaugh, Pitt Basketball

Pat Cavanaugh:

First, can you let readers know about Crons – how the idea got started and how the business has grown over the past few years?

The Crons Brand is a mentality performance brand that focuses on the mentality part of performance. Crons stands for “Come Ready or Never Start” and it’s about outworking the competition, proving people wrong, practice and preparation.

We have four divisions of the brand: Team Sports, Retail, Nutritional Products and our Goal Setting programs.

What lessons and experiences as a player helped influence the way you approach your business?

Most importantly, defining roles of each person on the team and making sure everyone knows how each role contributes to the success of the team. Dealing with the ups and downs of sports clearly has allowed me the experience to be more even keeled through the success and adversity opportunities in the business world.

You received scholarships to play for mid-major colleges to play for them, but turned them all down to play for Pitt as a walk-on. What drove that decision and were you at all concerned about it not working out?

I was motivated to play against the best and to strive toward my ultimate athletic goal of playing professional sports. I felt and was confident that if I had the opportunity at Pitt, I would be able to hold my own and be successful.

It proved to be the right decision for me. Pitt’s a great institution with a strong athletic heritage.

You were named team captain for two straight years. How was the decision made to do so and what do you think drove that decision?

Team captains were selected by the players which was even more rewarding. Players don’t need coaches or anyone else to know who they can count on to come through especially in crunch time…players know that on every team.

Who were some of the biggest characters on those Pitt teams you played for and what made them so? Any examples?

There were many. Jerome Lane was probably the most athletic guy I played with. He once blocked Brian Shorter’s shot and Brian against the backboard in a scrimmage one summer. It was unbelievable…not as much as Jerome breaking the backboard but it has always stuck with me.

Demetreus Gore, Curtis Aiken, Charles Smith, they all are great guys…characters but great guys. I always said that Charles Smith is so tight with his money I think he still has his First Communion money.

Who helped you most as a player – both on and off the court?

My Dad – he was outstanding in identifying areas to improve and then developing drills to make those strengths. His mental insight was invaluable with my time at Pitt.

Both of those Pitt teams you captained were top 10 teams. What made those teams so special?

Each year I was at Pitt was special. My freshman year Pitt had not won big in a while so it was the year the expectations met the results in terms of wins and losses…and from that point we developed such a high standard for Pitt Basketball it really helped take the program to the next level.

Despite the high rankings – the team did struggled in the NCAA Tournament to realize the expectations some had for it. What do you think was behind those struggles?

At the end of the day, we did not take care of the little things and in tournament time, those things will eventually catch up with you.

So many times you see in the tournament, talent doesn’t always win but who executes better.

Do you see your squads as having laid the foundation for the success Pitt has had since? How so?

Well, there were numerous previous Pitt teams who had won 20+ games over the years. I always felt a sense of responsibility to get Pitt back to its best years and then take it to a new level. I think all the guys on the teams I played with were so competitive they hated to lose and that helped carry us for the most part to many more wins than losses.

Tell us about your experiences in professional basketball. Who did you try out with and what were the takeaways from your experience with NBA teams?

After Pitt, Doug Moe with the Nuggets gave me an opportunity to workout as a free agent. Jerome Lane helped get that set-up because he believed I could play and he really went to bat for me with the coaches. I’ll always be thankful for Jerome for that.

Then, I went to Calgary in the world league for a spring. After that, the 76er’s picked me up to play with them in the NBA summer league and I played a game against the Timberwolves and then the Orlando Magic gave me a chance to join their team during pre-camp workouts when Brian Hill was the coach.

Again, Scott Skiles was another guy who went to the coaches for me but they ended up going with a guard who had been in the league. Although, I had a handful of offers to play overseas, I turned them down.

What do you make of the job Dixon has done as coach – and what do you think have been the causes of the struggles this season?

I said from the beginning when people weren’t sure of Jamie I had a good feeling about him and he’s done a remarkable job…not just int wins and losses but in his approach to the program, players and the university. He’s a model coach and even though I joke he took Orlando Antigua from me, I still like him.

I haven’t seen enough of the team to really comment on this year’s challenges but I’m confident Jamie will get it turned around next season.

What are your best memories of your time at Pitt, and why?

One of my favorite memories is winning our first Big East Tournament game my freshman year…it helped open up the door to set higher expectations in New York. I always look back and smile my sophomore year going into Syracuse the last game of the season for winner take all where we won the Big East Championship in front of 32,000+ people. It was a great team effort.

Any last thoughts for readers?

Look for our Crons uniforms on UNC-Asheville as they play at 3:10 PM Thursday vs. Syracuse.

Teresa Conn, Owner/Coach, Pittsburgh Passion

Teresa Conn, Owner/Coach, Pittsburgh Passion:

First, can you let readers know what’s new with the Passion this season?

The Passion has an exciting 2012 season lined up! We have many returning players that always offer excitement on both the offense and defensive side of the ball! Our big hitters, our play makers are all hungry to kick off the new season!

We also have returning MVP quarter back Lisa Horton back on our roster this season as well! I believe the fans are in for some great football!

You’ve had such a great string of success as a team – what do you attribute that to and how has it affected you as an organization moving forward?

We have a team full of solution people. There are no excuses, there is no blaming. We recognize a challenge and we find solutions together and we make them happen.

Can you tell us what impact Franco Harris has had on the team as a co-owner? How has his presence and professional playing experience helped you and the players?

Franco elevates everyone around him! He is an incredible man with a huge heart! All of us want to make him proud and to play and live with the class and courage that he leads by example.

Can you describe your coaching style – who has influenced you most as a coach and why?

My parents, my entire family, have had the biggest impact on the way I live my life. They look for the good in everything and they roll up their sleeves and work for results. Whatever you focus on in life will grow. We focus on the good and we focus on solutions and we care about one another. You will have a successful family, company, sports team .. Any team if you have loyalty, respect, honesty, sacrifice, courage, faith and fun! My family taught me that through their living examples.

As a coach and owner, are there any potential conflicts you find in holding those two roles. How does being an owner affect you as a coach, and vice versa?

I believe having both of those roles has been beneficial for the team. There is one message and one mission.. Teaching life lessons through sport.. Many coaches these days have contracts that depend upon their win-loss record.

Our team members from coaches to players have only one condition to keep their place on this team. Respect of self and others at all times. Holding the two titles has helped keep and enforce our focus on training for more than just football. We train for life.

How do you go about recruiting players – and where do most of your players come from?

We don’t really go out recruiting players.. Most of them find us. Most of our players are from Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas, but many have moved to Pittsburgh because of our team.

Tell us about the documentary on the Passion – how it came about, what it covers and where readers can find it now?

The Passion documentary was created by Jennifer Yee. She is a top class producer that has given countless hours of her life to our team to help promote our mission. She is amazing in the work she does here and around the world in helping others. She saw a story within our team and wanted to share it and we have been blessed that she did! You can order the documentary through Amazon. Pittsburgh Passion

Can you describe what your partnership with the NFL and USA Football consist of and how they help your organization and league?

USA Football and NFL have been great partners in they are responsible for getting Team USA to the world championship in Sweeden last year. It was the first ever and USA took home the gold! Their organizations give people amazing opportunities that they would never have! They truly make dreams come true!

Who are your biggest rivals this season for the championship?

There are several great teams across the country.. Boston, DC, Chicago, Dallas, Seattle.. And many others. We always have a great rival with Cleveland too..

Humor plays such a big part in keeping teams loose. Who have been some of the biggest characters on the teams you’ve coached and what made them so – any examples?

Lyndsi Hughes would prefer to make up games for our team warm ups than to go through a routine, she keeps things fun.. Lisa Horton decided we needed “crazy pants Tuesdays” so our uniforms have gone from sharp football uniforms to wild stretchy pants over pads.. And for some reason many of our girls have a contest with theme socks as well. We look like a ragity bunch at times, but it is worth the smiles!

We have several jokesters on the team and I believe humor adds so much fun to any team you belong on that we welcome it!

What are your best memories as both a coach and owner of the Passion, and what makes them so?

My best memories are the moments at practice at 1AM laying on the 50 yard line with the snow flakes covering our faces.. Reminding ourselves that probably all our opponents were sleeping and warm.

We have won exciting overtime games, National championship, and dedicated games to loved ones.. But the thing I believe I love the most is the lifetime friendships made at the daily being together in highs and lows , always knowing we would never let each other fail. I love this team! Everyone brings such different and needed gifts to each others lives!

Any last thoughts for readers?

We know we are blessed to live in the city of Pittsburgh! Our grandparents lived here, our kids go to school here, we are your teachers, nurses, police officers, your neighbors and your friends! The support of this city is incredible and heartfelt!

David Rosen, Rose Klein & Marias Law Firm, on Joel Steed Lawsuit Against NFL

David Rosen,

First, can you give readers a quick synopsis of the reason for Joel Steed’s and other players’ lawsuit with the NFL?

An issue is that the NFL had actual knowledge of the extent in which mild head trauma could lead to permanent dementia and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). It’s important to make the distinction that we’re not suing the NFL because players got hurt from regular game injuries. We’re suing the NFL because they knew that repeated mild – not necessarily concussive – head trauma can lead to those issues.

And it’s not just hits to the head. It can come from hits t0 the body and shoulder-to-shoulder hits, like when an offensive lineman blocks a defensive lineman.

First, how do you know the NFL had awareness of these issues?

The NFL was aware that mild brain trauma occurs. We know that because of the doctors they had used to consult with them over the years. Those same doctors were writing articles about mild brain trauma causing dementia and CTE at the same time they were consulting with the NFL. So the NFL knew

Additional evidence also exists in the documents and testimonies of the people involved as well.

Not everyone suffers from dementia and CTEs though. Does that matter?

Take the analogy of the car company that looks at their cars every day then says they didn’t know that when a car crashes people get hurt. No, not everyone does get CTE from mild brain trauma. Most don;t get dementia or CTE. No one can predict who gets it, but we know some will end up that way.

We’re saying the NFL should have reacted quicker and earlier. We’re seeing the NFL reacting now.

Do you see that almost as an admission of guilt?

As an observer of the NFL, you can see it’s doing more now than it did even a year ago. But no, I can’t make a judgement as to why. It’s just a fact.

What should the NFL have done earlier, from your viewpoint?

The medical literature showed that repeated mild brain trauma/concussions were much worse when they occurred while a player was still recovering from a brain trauma. It’s much more dangerous. They should not have allowed injured players to return so quickly.

We see the return to play rules have changed now too. While there’s not an exhaustive list in front of me on what the NFL should have done, the return to play rule is a good example. That alone would have changed a lot. As soon as they knew there was a problem they should have not allowed any strenuous activities until the symptoms were gone – that’s what the return to play rule is now starting to consider.

The NFL is being sued…but not the teams themselves, correct?

The team is not in the suit – just the NFL. Each team as an employer cannot be sued – it’s a principle of civil law. Take for example a worker injured in a machine shop. They get worker’s comp. The Exclusive Remedy Doctrine forbids them from suing their employer because they get workers comp.

But, you can have third parties at fault. For example, if there was a faulty machine that caused the injury. You can then claim workers comp and sue the manufacturer of the machinery, That’s how we can sue the NFL – we sue them as a third party.

And you are suing Riddell, the helmet manufacturer, as well?

A few of us are suing Riddell for defective design, lack of warnings and possibly being in cahoots with the NFL.

How do you draw the line between “defective design” versus just not strong enough?

As the product designers and manufacturers, they are held to be experts about their products. Riddell had the responsibility based on their knowledge of the issues of head trauma to design a safer helmet

It’s important to note, by the way, that workers comp is no fault. No matter who’s fault it was, the law prevents double-recovery.

Did the NFL share their findings with players?

They didn’t share their information and did not act on it.

What do you say to those that say that “Players knew the risks”?

They didn’t know the risks of permanent dementia going in. They knew they could get headaches and broken bones. But they didn’t know they could permanently lose the ability to think.

A good example is with hazardous jobs like construction – they knew they could fall or get hit. But they didn’t know fifty years ago that if they breathed the ventilation dust it could kill you.

Can you speak on Joel Steed’s case in particular – does it differ in any way from the others? How is his health?

His case was filed later that our firm’s first filings because he retained us after the original filings… I’m not going to address his personal health now.

Where do the cases stand now?

Some players filed workers comp versus their teams beginning over two years ago. Afterwards, a few lawsuits were filed against the NFL and Riddell. By the end of 2011 – probably about eight to ten different suits. Some against the NFL, some against both the NFL and Riddell.

The suits got filed – some in state courts, some in federal. All the state suits were legally removed to the federal courts by the NFL and Riddell – the legal term for them being moved to the federal courts. By December of 2011, all the cases were in different federal courts.

The NFL then petitioned for the creation of one Multi-District Litigation (MDL). The league wanted all of the cases in one place. A joint panel on the MDL decided on whether the MDL should be created, and where it should be held.

In Florida in January, no one opposed the league’s request for the MDL. The panel was told by the NFL that they wanted it in Philadelphia – I can’t speak as to why, but all parties agreed to that, with few exceptions. Now, since February, nearly all of the cases are in one MDL in Philadelphia.

What do you say about those who feel now all of your eggs are in one basket, so to speak?

For the purposes of trial, all the eggs aren’t in one basket. This isn’t a class-action lawsuit or consolidation. All the cases are in front of one judge for pre-trial purposes only – issues like discovery. That all goes in front of one judge.

But, the cases are still tried separately in court once the trials start. The MDL is for pre-trial stuff only. Player one’s brain trauma is different from player two’s, etc…

That’s an important distinction for those unfamiliar with the process.

It is I know and something not everyone realizes. Some cases by the way are not in the MDL. They were filed in state court after the MDL was created and ont taken to the MDL for one reason or another. The Duerson wrongful death case, for example.

Has the NFL been in touch with you yet about the MDL?

Nothing pro or con from the NFL -more procedural stuff. It’s early – that’s not unusual. The first hearing is on April 25th – and that’s entirely procedural.

How would you ultimately like to see this all end- what’s a “win”?

We’re suing for damages for the injured players and, for those who passed away, their families. For those with no diagnosed injury, they may still get dementia or CTE. They are entitled to medical monitoring to stave off dementia for as long as possible.

Rum Bunter Blog

Rum Bunter Blog:

First, can you let readers know about RumBunter – what inspired the idea (and the name) and how you developed your unique approach in your coverage of the Pirates?

We wanted an original name. Nobody has ever guessed what it means which I think is really cool. We’ve had a bunch of people ask about it, and some have even ridiculed it a bit, cough John Perotto, but that just adds to the fun of the blog. The Pirates are our team and we wanted to create something that fans could stop in and maybe laugh a bit and at the same time learn something too.

What should readers expect in 2012 from RumBunter?

It’s an election year, so more moaning and groaning than ever before. Seriously, we have no idea, however we do have a much more talented roster than ever before.

We were lucky enough to land two great writers recently. Both come from well established blogs within the Pittsburgh sports scene. Jon Anderson from mceffect.com and Jeff Snedden from steelworldorder.com. Kurt Evans will be cranking a record number of photoshops when the regular season starts. C. Fortwo and A. Pendl have been tremendous in getting the highest level of guests for the RumBunter Podcast Show.

There seem to be an inordinate number of Pirates blogs compared to other Pittsburgh sports teams. How have you been able to differentiate yourself from other Pirates/baseball blogs – what do you think makes your blog a “destination site” for fans?

If RumBunter were a newspaper, we are the comics section. That is always the best part, so that is what we want to be. Sure there are somewhat serious posts, but baseball is still a game. Let’s have some fun.

What have been your favorite and most interesting stories you’ve covered so far, and why?

When the Pirates were winning ballgames in the first four months of the 2011 season, it was by far the best story imaginable. Hands down. It was a blast.

Have you had the opportunity to meet any of the players? if so, who and how did that go – and if not, who would you most like to meet and have a beer with, and why?

Yes, we’ve met most of the players and it has been enjoyable. We’ve been fortunate in that regard. We still haven’t met AJ Burnett. Having a beer with him would seem like a really good time. It might need to be a few beers, actually.

How important was the McCutchen signing for your perspective – and do you think this plus the Burnett trade starts to finally make this team more attractive to other free agents?

Signing McCutchen was absolutely a must for the organization. It makes the organization legit. AJ Burnett having success will make the team attractive for free agents a little bit, but Erik Bedard, a lefty in PNC Park performing well could open the door even further.

Who do you think will be the biggest surprise/breakout players in 2012 for the Pirates?

I have been on a jinx stretch during the first part of spring training, so I must be very careful in my selections. I mentioned a lefty in the question above, that is one and on offense El Toro will surprise.

Do you get the sense of a renewed optimism on the team for 2012? What should fans realistically expect from the Pirates in 2012? And is that enough of a jump from 2011?

I worry about the insanely challenging schedule in April. It appears that Clint Hurdle is pushing the team to focus early on which will be very important, but I am not sure it will be enough.

I believe fans can expect a more sound defensive team which will keep them in more games. The team will be more competitive, without a doubt.

The question I have is will the offense be enough? The pitching was very strong in the beginning of 2011, if the offense could have been better the team would have won even more games, so the balance will be key.

Who are the Pirates prospects you are most excited about seeing in the next couple of years in the majors?

In the immediate future: Kyle McPherson. Starling Marte. Justin Wilson. Rudy Owens. Tony Sanchez.

In the distant future: Josh Bell. Jameson Taillon. Gerrit Cole. Josh Poytress. Robbie Grossman.

The talent is in the system. We are really looking for some big years from the 2009 draft class. The pitching talent in that 2009 class should really take a step forward this year. When that happens the entire Pirates organization makes a big shift inside the top ten farm systems in baseball. A move like that can open up some serious trade partners to fill some offensive holes the Pirates have.

If you had one day to take over as GM of the Pirates, what do you do, and why?

Kick a few kids in the ass from some of our more recent draft classes. Especially a few from the 2009 class. The team is starting to look better and perform better, but it really needs quite a few more prospects to turn the corner to be a solid team.

I would want a copy of the internal valuation system and how it was developed. Great question.

Any last thoughts for readers?

Thank you for reading the blog. God bless all of you. This losing has to end sooner or later. (Right??)

Pensblog

Pensblog:

First, can you let readers know about The PensBlog – what inspired the idea and how you developed your unique approach in your coverage of the penguins?

Honestly, we started blogging because there was basically no coverage of the Penguins back in 2006. We wanted to get info out there. Our approach is just how we and all of our friends have always watched games.

What should readers expect in 2012 from The PensBlog?

Nothing really. We just try to provide info, links, live streams, and whatever else. And we just try to be honest. Expecting anything from us would be a huge mistake.

You have a cult-like following among some Penguins fans. How do you differentiate yourself from other Penguins/hockey blogs – what do you think makes the blog a “destination site” for fans?

We have no clue. We’ve been Penguins fans in good times and bad. And there are a lot of people that are the same. It is amazing how similar Penguin fans are.

What’s been your favorite and most interesting stories you’ve covered so far. and why?

There are so many. The two runs to the Stanley Cup were great to be a part of, and we are lucky to have been running the blog during all of that. Going through all of the stages from the Penguins possibly moving, to them getting a new arena, and then seeing the new arena built has been amazing, too.

You sometimes have to sit back and realize how close the Pens were to leaving the city.

Have you had the opportunity to meet any of the players? if so, who and how did that go – and if not, who would you most like to meet and have a beer with, and why?

We really haven’t met any of the players, and that is for the better we feel. I am not sure we’d even like to have a beer with any of
them, either. They’re just guys playing sports for a living.

The Penguins organization puts out quite a bit of it’s own content on a daily basis. What are your thoughts on this – is this a good thing,from your perspective?

It definitely is a good thing. People are always looking for news. But sometimes you have to question the content because there is no chance of ever hearing anything negative. Not that there is anything negative, but sometimes it’s hard to trust the content when it comes from a biased source.

People on the Internet aren’t dumb. Collectively, they can see through any and all smoke and mirrors.

Have you noticed the Penguins loosening up at all in their policy of not working with blogs. If so, how?

Yes. The Pens handle bloggers very well. They’ve given us press passes several times, although we no longer partake in it.

Fighting in the NHL. Yes…or no? And why?

Yes. Because it wouldn’t be hockey without it. The frustrations have to come to a head like that. If not, you’d see horrific injuries from
slashes and whatnot.

If the guys at The PensBlog had one day to take over as GM of the Penguins, what do you do, and why?

We’d probably go on message boards and plant rumors and watch the Internet destroy itself.

Who are the Penguins prospects you are most excited about seeing in the next couple of years in the NHL?

Simon Despres is going to be a monster. Really excited about what he can do.

Any last thoughts for readers?

Just a big thank-you to anyone who has visited the blog at one time or another. We think of anyone that reads our blog as our friends. We’ve met some great people because of the blog, too. Even after five years of keeping up with the blog, it’s still a lot of fun.

Chris Fuamatu-Maʻafala, Steelers Running Back, 1998-2002

You’ve been heavily involved in youth sports since the NFL – especially in Hawaii. What brought that interest on and what do you enjoy most about this work?

I love working with the kids. In my line of work, I’m in charge of overseeing everything from the rooms to making sure they all have a safe environment. I make sure they all have fair playing time – I can make all of those decisions and make the adjustments to make sure they get playing time.

I know what it feels like to be the kid who had to wait because the game was too tight and the coaches kept the stars in.

Continue reading “Chris Fuamatu-Maʻafala, Steelers Running Back, 1998-2002”

Pete Rostosky, Steelers Offensive Lineman, 1983-1986

First, can you let readers know what you have been doing with yourself since your time in the NFL, and why you decided to enter this line of work?

I am currently self-employed and own Rostosky Coal , LLC – a surface mining and reclamation company. I am second generation in this company as my dad started it in 1954.

Ever since I was a child, my dad took me to work and I learned the business from the bottom up; actually running large equipment since I was eleven years old. My dad passed away seven years ago, but I am sure he would be pleased to know the business still carries on.

Continue reading “Pete Rostosky, Steelers Offensive Lineman, 1983-1986”

Mike Taylor, Steelers Offensive Lineman, 1968-1969

First, can you let readers know what you have been doing with yourself since your NFL days and how your time in the NFL helped influence your post-NFL careers?

In 1972 while I was playing for the St. Louis Cardinals, I decided to buy an 18-wheeler and start an independent trucking business named for myself. Shortly thereafter, my wife and I started a small woman’s clothing apparel boutique that she managed near our home in Alta Dena, CA. About 1980

I set my independent trucking interests aside and became a supervisor for a fairly new privately held California trucking company called Viking Freight Systems that was later acquired by Fed-Ex. I stayed there until my retirement as the Operations Manager in 2006. While working for Fed-Ex, my passion and zest for Southern cuisine – specifically BBQ Ribs, Tri-Tip, Chicken, Cajun Sausage and those great culinary delights I’d experienced from my youth – led me to begin a restaurant in Folsom, CA that I named BBQ-Express.

Continue reading “Mike Taylor, Steelers Offensive Lineman, 1968-1969”