I never really believed in Santa Claus as a kid, partly because the neighborhood bully told me he was bogus, and also due to the fact that I once actually saw my dear late mother placing some gifts under the tree in the wee hours of the morning on Christmas Day.
Those scars aside, I truly have no marker to call in with the man in red, but I am hoping he will take pity upon me as he reads this column. Unlike those asking him for things they want, I am forgoing my wants and needs and asking Santa to consider bestowing some gifts to those who play the games I love to watch and critique.
For starters, there is Jim Caldwell. Perhaps Santa can deliver a well-deserved contract extension to this classy and resilient man for all he has endured both on and off the field this year. He deserves that and then some for keeping a positive outlook throughout a very tough season. His body of work speaks for itself.
While you’re at it St. Nick, you can leave a dose of humility and a dash of ego reduction in Bill Polian’s stocking. Also, if you have any extra time while on West 56th Street, drop in for a second at Jim Irsay’s office and leave a copy of the guide “How to be forthright with season ticket holders.”
That will come in handy for him as he decides on whether or not he will disclose the fact that Peyton Manning is no longer able to play football BEFORE he sends out those pesky renewal notices.
While in town, do not forget to stop by Conseco Fieldhouse and leave Frank Vogel a large bottle of Tylenol for the headaches his new job will undoubtedly provide. Feel free to deliver Roy Hibbert a hook shot and the ability to utilize his left hand as well.
If you should see Larry Bird working late in his office, perhaps a new set of golf clubs for him, as he surely has had enough of the madness that is the NBA and will seriously contemplate riding off into the sunset after the season.
Give Tamika Catchings and all the women of the Fever something nice and thank them for leaving it all on the court once again.
If you could, please head a bit West to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and make some adjustments to the new 2012 car, that by early reports has no more balance than your sleigh. Leave a note for Tony George and tell him all is forgiven and to get back to work this season.
Before you leave town, do not overlook our friends at Victory Field.
The Indians gave us yet another great summer and once again distinguished themselves as the most fan friendly and successful sports franchise in town.
Also, please don’t forget all the talented athletes laboring in obscurity in the IPS system. Give them the equipment and facilities they need and deserve.
Head South to Bloomington and make sure the expectations of all basketball fans are realistic. Tell them to give Tom Crean at least two more years to make it happen. Give IU football coach Kevin Wilson a badge of courage for having the guts to tell some of his better players to leave if they are not willing to work hard on the field and in the classroom, while being responsible young adults. It is hard to change a culture, so help him.
In closing, please try and deliver as many footballs, basketballs, and baseballs to as many children as you possibly can. Hopefully it will light a spark and encourage them to participate in sports. Remind their parents that it does not matter if a child has any ability, as long as they have fun participating. Forget the scoreboard and the trophies, and help prepare them for the game of life. That is what truly matters.
I know I have asked for a lot Santa, but it is the season and you do have some serious street credibility when it comes to being generous. That being said, please leave something special for those who tolerate me regularly at the Recorder as well. Travel safe and don’t forget my Dad’s NASCAR calendar.
Danny Bridges, who would like to ask Santa for just one more opportunity to see Dan Wheldon’s infectious smile in person, can be reached at (317) 578-1780 or at Bridgeshd@aol.com.
