by, Mr. Kuiper
...........
In response to a Dylan Colussi inquiry about why I hate the Walverines
CrossFit teaches us to work toward a constant state of readiness. That effort is rewarded by growth. That sacrifice, commitment, and consistency result in becoming something new and better. In short, as our mothers and fathers told us, we get what we deserve.
Life is clearly not so simple. Injuries happen. We have limitations. Other priorities intervene.
But look around The Champions Club. The Steinwaschers. Mrs. Tara. Mrs. Nevarez. Dillon. Dylan. Chase. A-aron. The Careys. Sleepy Josh Van and his parents. Mr. Bennis. Wes. The Krzxtxches. Something like 200 Banets. Lulu (and her sidekick Gjon). Jaylee. And on, and on, and on.
In truth, there’s not one person at the box who I don’t admire and respect for something. Many of the moms in particular (dads (minus Mr. B) are lazy, let’s be honest) and athletes of the season are people I respect so much because of their sacrifice for improvement. Diet. The ability to breathe. Flexibility. Outwitting your own freaking mind to get one more rep.
They. Get. What. They. Deserve.
Which brings us to Michigan. My alma mater. Some great years, and the best of my friends to this day.
And today, defensive end Aidan Hutchinson of Michigan was invited to the Heisman ceremony. Deservedly so. Freak athlete. Plays with a high motor. Hates the ball. I hated the ball. All good defensive football players hate the ball and those in whose hands it rests.
Running back Kenneth Walker of Michigan State was not invited. Unbelievable season. Likely the highest-rated running back on NFL boards. Performed at or above the level of other Heisman winning running backs in recent years, and with a sub-par offensive line to boot. Scored five touchdowns against Michigan in the MSU win (remember that?).
So, we see recency bias. Brand bias. And “tradition” bias.
Here’s the thing. U of M hasn’t really done that much with the pigskin since the 1950s. Made their mark beating up on Albion School for the Blind and Slightly Stupid. That’s your leaders and best.
And I love it. Keep getting your fake accolades on signing day. Keep getting bullshit invitations to better bowls and better awards.
I’d always rather win on the field. Every time. Just like Coach Casey, Mr. Andrew, Mr. Malak or Mrs. Burton fighting through an injury to hit a PR (or just complete a workout) is better than me checking the box.
Here’s what I believe. Results matter. Effort matters. Getting the most out of what you earn is better than what you are given. Media (and voters) suck. The voices outside of the building are always worse than those in it. That The Champions Club will find you where you are and help you lift yourself up. Michigan will always get more accolades than they deserve.
And I wouldn’t have it any other way. Because, to paraphrase Emperor Palpatine, my hate makes me strong.
Tuck Comin’.
