RIZZO: There’s More than Sports

by Michael Rizzo

We’ve become a nation too obsessed with sports. Imagine if colleges demanded the same results from their professors as their football coaches. As far I know how many fantasy football games you’ve won, is not a criteria used in determining entrance into Heaven. I don’t think there is anything wrong with sports, and certainly they’re great for young people. I’ll even say this area has a mini crisis when it comes youth participation. But in general somewhere along the line things are becoming wacky. More adults are focusing on season tickets and points spreads, then raising a family or other aspects of life. Hopefully in 2011 you keep things in perspective and have a great year, with or without a championship, Happy New Year everyone.

RIZZO: Looking Forward To 2011

by Michael Rizzo

With so many great storylines, 2010 was certainly a very exciting year in the sports world. It looks like 2011 could be an even better year, especially for Pittsburgh fans. The year starts off crazy with Winter Classic on Saturday and, followed by the big Pittsburgh at Cleveland game on Sunday. Looking ahead it’s not impossible to think that 2011 could see the Steelers in the Super Bowl, Pitt in Final Four, and the Pens in Stanley Cup Finals. The Pirate might even finish .500 — okay maybe THAT is wishful thinking, but it’s certainly seems likely at least one trophy could be in store for the Steel City.

Tomorrow is my final daily column in the Kittanning Paper, and - once again - I wanted to again thank all the readers and everyone involved with the paper.