Cruising Columbus

Matt and I are getting familiar with our surroundings here in Columbus. Today we were able to tour Ohio Stadium, or “The Shoe” at Ohio State University. Matt ran the stairs to the top of the stadium, and we were even able to play a little catch in the south end zone. Even though the stadium was empty, it was still impressive. I can only imagine what it must be like playing in front of 100,000 fans. For two players on Team USA, they won’t have to imagine it, they will experience it this fall.

The Team USA Road Tour will be at the Ohio State Spring Game this Saturday, and Team USA head coach Chuck Kyle and future Buckeye players Storm Klein and Jack Mewhort will be honored at halftime. The game should be interesting, as students are encouraged to wear beach gear and attend a  “Beach Party” in the south endzone. We will be located just outside the southwest entrance, so make sure to stop by and pick up some great prizes or just say hello.

As I stood in the south end zone, I immediately thought of  the Ohio State University marching band dotting of the “I” in the script Ohio. For those that don’t know, the script Ohio is the most identifiable trademark associated with Ohio State football and the Ohio State Marching Band  (often called The Best Damn Band in the Land or TBDBITL by fans). Each time the formation drill is performed, a different fourth- or fifth-year sousaphone player has the privilege of standing as the dot in the “I” of “Ohio.” It is one of the best college football tradition.

Following our visit, Matt and I headed to downtown Columbus to spread the word about Team USA. We talked with several people who were hanging out on their lunch break at the Capitol. We had fun interacting with fans, playing catch on the Capitol and making new friends. We met a father and son, who enjoyed playing football together. We talked with football moms Rebecca and Sharon, as well as a business man who completed a pass to Matt.

We are looking forward to a great weekend and continue to spread the word about the Junior World Championship.

Till next time
-MICK