Football season is here and finally getting in full swing. High school football games are beginning, while college and professional football is right around the corner. It’s a very exciting time.

Vick to the Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles knew they were taking a chance when they signed Michael Vick. As soon as they signed Vick, they knew that a media frenzy would begin. In the wake of Vick’s signing, the city of Philadelphia and the entire sports world is torn on Vick present and future.

What Vick did was wrong and heinous, but he paid his debt to society and has earned the right to a second chance. I know that most of the animal lovers are outraged that he was able to get back into the NFL, but it’s time that he gets on with his life. He spent time in jail and an example was made of him. There are players in the NFL now (Leonard Little and Donte’ Stallworth) who have been responsible for taking the lives of human beings. Neither had to serve as much jail time as Vick and their suspensions weren’t as long as Vick’s.

Where were the protestors and where was the outrage? Vick has earned a second chance. He has earned the right to move on with his life and get back on the football field. What he did in the past can’t be taken back, but he can educate those involved in those activities on what not to do.

The Favre sage is not over

For several seasons now, we’ve seen Brett Favre waffle on retirement or continuing his career. His latest waffling involved the Minnesota Vikings. In Favre fashion, he waited until the last minute and then told the Vikes that he’d remain retired and ride off into the sunset. Yeah right.

On Monday, it was reported that Favre would indeed be the next Vikings starting quarterback. On Tuesday, it wasn’t a report anymore. Why does Favre continue to do this to franchises? Why lead these teams on just to let them down?

The truth is, Favre loves the game of football but doesn’t want to do everything that is required of being a professional football player anymore. He doesn’t want to attend camp and isn’t fond of the living arrangements during camp. He would rather skip camp and just come in and play. At some point, a franchise will have to put this guy in his place. He is a great player, but he’s not bigger than the game. He is a star and has earned the right to some privileges, but he should have to be present at camp in an effort to build chemistry with his team.

I hope that Favre has a great season and he is able to lead Minnesota to new heights, but I’m getting sick of his waffling. I’m sure I’m not the only one. The other quarterbacks that have put in hard work and long hours in Minnesota are now pushed down one spot on the depth chart. Favre shouldn’t be more important than the players that have been there from day one.

Bidding you farewell

It has been a joy to cover Chesterfield County and Chesterfield County sports. I have had an incredible time getting to know coaches and players, and being able to see how passionate the fans are here. This was a hard decision, but I will be moving on from The Cheraw Chronicle to begin another career in sports.

I want to thank Heartland Publications for giving me the chance to begin my career here, at home. I also thank Heartland for teaching me valuable life lessons along the way that I will take with me for the rest of my life.

For nearly three years, I had the privilege to work with some very dedicated coaches and players. I’ve said this numerous times, but Chesterfield County is the most athletic county in the state. It does take hard work and dedication and everyone involved in athletics here displays those qualities. I thank the coaches for working with me and allowing me the opportunity to cover their teams.

It has been an amazing journey. Thanks to all of you who have read The Sportsgrind and our sports coverage and giving your comments and opinions. It meant a lot to me.

Thank you all and God bless you.