When I was a kid (heck l still am) l wanted everything under the sun for Christmas, and my beloved parents always made sure Santa was generous to me and my younger brother. As time went on I learned that giving was really a lot more fun than receiving, so I thought I’d take a stab and hand out some well-deserved gifts to those in the world of sports. At the top of my list is Indiana Pacers head coach Nate McMillian. The job he’s done to date with a team that doesn’t have a wealth of talent is truly remarkable. I’ll put a two-week vacation on a tropical island under his tree, and may he get the rest and relaxation he’s earned from a stressful occupation.
Next up would be Jacoby Brissett, who’s had an up and down season as the starting quarterback for your Indianapolis Colts. You’re a talented young man, and the microscope you’re under is unforgiving, so I’ll put some noise reducing headphones in your stocking. Wear them and don’t listen to those who want to write you off. Train hard in the offseason, and come back strong and prove the “experts” wrong.
I can’t forget Roger Penske, who swooped in and purchased my favorite racetrack recently. My gift to you is patience, as it will take some time to sort out the changes you’re bound to implement. Just use the same approach as you do in all your other successful business endeavors and everything will undoubtedly be fine at IMS.
How about some good vibes and holiday cheer for Indiana Fever coach Marianne Stanley, who was recently appointed to lead the charge next season. She’ll have her hands full, but with Tamika Catchings now serving as general manager for the team, I’m predicting she’ll have the team playing hard right out of the gate.
I must also offer season’s greetings to each and every high school athlete in this region who works hard on the field but, more importantly, in the classroom. Every weekend you entertain us as you strive to be the best in your respective sport, and I salute you.
To those who read my offerings and respond via email and sometimes by telephone, may your holidays be solid as well. I don’t mind you calling me crazy or disagreeing with me, and I hope you’ll continue to shout out as needed. Thanks for following along.
Finally, merry Christmas and happy new year to the best newsroom in the world. The people at the Indianapolis Recorder are talented (unlike yours truly) and committed to bringing you the news in our community. Their editorial and writing skills are second to none, and I’m proud of the fact that they are the only newspaper left in the state of Indiana with both integrity and a social conscience, and I deeply appreciate you good folks tolerating me for all these years.
Danny Bridges, who will spend Christmas day binge watching NBA basketball with his three dogs and a honey baked ham, can be reached at 317-370-8447 or at bridgeshd@aol.com.
