1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:03,164 (female announcer) This is a production of WKNO-Memphis. 2 00:00:03,164 --> 00:00:06,498 Production funding for 'Sports Files' is made possible in part 3 00:00:06,498 --> 00:00:12,498 by.. 4 00:00:15,131 --> 00:00:17,698 My guest today on 'Sports Files' is the General Manager of the 5 00:00:17,698 --> 00:00:20,264 Memphis Redbirds, Ben Weiss. 6 00:00:20,264 --> 00:00:37,764 ♪♪♪ 7 00:00:37,764 --> 00:00:38,464 Play Ball! 8 00:00:38,464 --> 00:00:41,664 Two words that bring pleasure to the ears of baseball fans young 9 00:00:41,664 --> 00:00:42,664 and old. 10 00:00:42,664 --> 00:00:45,898 The 2013 Major League Baseball season opened up earlier this 11 00:00:45,898 --> 00:00:48,664 week, while tonight the Memphis Redbirds began play in the 12 00:00:48,664 --> 00:00:50,231 Pacific Coast League. 13 00:00:50,231 --> 00:00:53,664 The Birds, the AAA affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals are part 14 00:00:53,664 --> 00:00:56,131 of the fabric of the Bluff City, and while the numbers may 15 00:00:56,131 --> 00:00:59,431 indicate a bit of a downward trend in baseball's popularity, 16 00:00:59,431 --> 00:01:02,431 America's pasttime continues to be one of the most fan friendly 17 00:01:02,431 --> 00:01:04,398 sports we have in this country. 18 00:01:04,398 --> 00:01:07,131 Nearly a half million fans of the game walked through the 19 00:01:07,131 --> 00:01:09,864 Autozone Park turnstiles in 2012, 20 00:01:09,864 --> 00:01:13,231 an average of just under seven thousand per game. 21 00:01:13,231 --> 00:01:15,698 The Redbirds remain a very afforable ticket for sports 22 00:01:15,698 --> 00:01:18,031 fans, and with one of Minor League Baseball's most 23 00:01:18,031 --> 00:01:21,298 attractive stadiums, they continue to be a draw for people 24 00:01:21,298 --> 00:01:22,898 from all walks of life. 25 00:01:22,898 --> 00:01:25,031 Last season the Redbirds organization unveiled the 26 00:01:25,031 --> 00:01:27,698 largest scoreboard in Minor league baseball, 27 00:01:27,698 --> 00:01:30,398 adding to the already popular baseball "Shrine" at 3rd and 28 00:01:30,398 --> 00:01:31,398 Union. 29 00:01:31,398 --> 00:01:33,964 The man instrumental in helping bring the new jumbotron to 30 00:01:33,964 --> 00:01:37,164 Autozone Park, and adding other popular immenities, 31 00:01:37,164 --> 00:01:39,164 is General Manager Ben Weiss. 32 00:01:39,164 --> 00:01:41,298 Weiss took over the daily business operations of the 33 00:01:41,298 --> 00:01:44,764 Redbirds in August of 2009, and hasn't looked back. 34 00:01:44,764 --> 00:01:47,631 Today, the Redbirds young, talented GM joins me to talk 35 00:01:47,631 --> 00:01:50,664 about the upcoming season and what fans can expect to see from 36 00:01:50,664 --> 00:01:51,664 the team. 37 00:01:51,664 --> 00:01:53,564 A squad that will begin the season with some of the most 38 00:01:53,564 --> 00:01:57,131 promising young talent in the Cardinals organization such as 39 00:01:57,131 --> 00:02:01,031 outfielder Oscar Tavarez and second baseman Kolten Wong. 40 00:02:01,031 --> 00:02:03,564 We swing for the fences with the Redbirds front office head 41 00:02:03,564 --> 00:02:07,131 honcho, Ben Weiss, next on 'Sports Files'. 42 00:02:07,131 --> 00:02:21,931 ♪♪♪ 43 00:02:21,931 --> 00:02:23,164 Ben, thank you so much for being with us. 44 00:02:23,164 --> 00:02:24,164 Appreciate it, Greg. 45 00:02:24,164 --> 00:02:25,164 Thank you for having me. 46 00:02:25,164 --> 00:02:26,164 Always good to talk baseball. 47 00:02:26,164 --> 00:02:28,631 I know the weather may not be cooperating like we want it to 48 00:02:28,631 --> 00:02:30,664 be but anytime you can talk baseball, 49 00:02:30,664 --> 00:02:31,664 it's a good thing. 50 00:02:31,664 --> 00:02:33,098 Anytime we talk baseball it's a good thing. 51 00:02:33,098 --> 00:02:34,098 You're right. 52 00:02:34,098 --> 00:02:35,698 The weather seems to be reverting a little bit, 53 00:02:35,698 --> 00:02:37,531 you know, back to the cooler temps. 54 00:02:37,531 --> 00:02:40,498 But obviously, this weekend, temperatures supposed to be just 55 00:02:40,498 --> 00:02:41,498 perfect. 56 00:02:41,498 --> 00:02:43,598 Perfect for the first fireworks game of the season. 57 00:02:43,598 --> 00:02:44,598 So, we're looking forward to that. 58 00:02:44,598 --> 00:02:46,898 We'll talk about all the promotions and everything that 59 00:02:46,898 --> 00:02:50,064 we can expect to see from the Redbirds this upcoming season as 60 00:02:50,064 --> 00:02:51,064 we move along. 61 00:02:51,064 --> 00:02:52,598 But timing is everything. 62 00:02:52,598 --> 00:02:55,564 And yesterday a story was circulating around the Memphis 63 00:02:55,564 --> 00:02:58,731 area and maybe even out of Saint Louis about the Saint Louis 64 00:02:58,731 --> 00:03:01,998 Cardinals and that they were on the verge of purchasing the 65 00:03:01,998 --> 00:03:03,864 Redbirds and Autozone Park. 66 00:03:03,864 --> 00:03:06,964 Ben, what can you tell us about those rumors and that story that 67 00:03:06,964 --> 00:03:08,164 circulated yesterday? 68 00:03:08,164 --> 00:03:11,864 We obviously, you know, saw the Twitter chatter. 69 00:03:11,864 --> 00:03:14,331 And you know, as far as I'm concerned, 70 00:03:14,331 --> 00:03:16,964 I still work for the Memphis Redbirds Baseball Foundation. 71 00:03:16,964 --> 00:03:18,631 They're still the owner of the ballpark, 72 00:03:18,631 --> 00:03:21,164 still the owner of the franchise. 73 00:03:21,164 --> 00:03:25,998 And until, you know, there's a change directly communicated by 74 00:03:25,998 --> 00:03:30,698 them, that's the way it is and that's the way it stands. 75 00:03:30,698 --> 00:03:34,198 If there is dialogue between the two and some would say there has 76 00:03:34,198 --> 00:03:37,864 been because I know this has been a rumor for a long time 77 00:03:37,864 --> 00:03:40,831 that they would love to see the Cardinals purchase the 78 00:03:40,831 --> 00:03:41,964 organization. 79 00:03:41,964 --> 00:03:44,564 Are you pretty to that information as the general 80 00:03:44,564 --> 00:03:45,564 manager? 81 00:03:45,564 --> 00:03:46,731 It's at a different level, Greg. 82 00:03:46,731 --> 00:03:49,664 You know, the foundation members are, 83 00:03:49,664 --> 00:03:53,498 you know, they handle discussions as it results or as 84 00:03:53,498 --> 00:03:57,398 it pertains to any potential transaction. 85 00:03:57,398 --> 00:04:00,398 So you move on as if it's day-to-day operations and what 86 00:04:00,398 --> 00:04:02,064 happens above you happens. 87 00:04:02,064 --> 00:04:04,498 Our staff, we come in everyday. 88 00:04:04,498 --> 00:04:08,064 Now we're coming in seven days a week working our tails off and, 89 00:04:08,064 --> 00:04:09,631 you know, making sure that ball park is clean, 90 00:04:09,631 --> 00:04:12,598 our promotions are great and everybody has a great time. 91 00:04:12,598 --> 00:04:13,664 That's what were there to do. 92 00:04:13,664 --> 00:04:16,398 What does opening day mean to you? 93 00:04:16,398 --> 00:04:19,231 To me, it's opening day is like Christmas day. 94 00:04:19,231 --> 00:04:20,864 I'm fortunate. 95 00:04:20,864 --> 00:04:24,364 I work in a business where I get two Christmas days in one year. 96 00:04:24,364 --> 00:04:26,898 But you know, it brings back. 97 00:04:26,898 --> 00:04:29,631 It's a ton of excitment. 98 00:04:29,631 --> 00:04:33,131 All the work, the culimation of the six or seven months of off 99 00:04:33,131 --> 00:04:34,131 season. 100 00:04:34,131 --> 00:04:37,331 It's just great to see all that come to fruition. 101 00:04:37,331 --> 00:04:39,698 And it's just very, very exciting. 102 00:04:39,698 --> 00:04:43,531 You're a younger guy than me but I still remember growing up and 103 00:04:43,531 --> 00:04:46,264 opening day and when I went to see the Phillies was the team I 104 00:04:46,264 --> 00:04:47,264 grew up with. 105 00:04:47,264 --> 00:04:49,464 You could smell the grass. 106 00:04:49,464 --> 00:04:51,364 I'm going back to Connie Mack when there was real grass. 107 00:04:51,364 --> 00:04:53,464 And of course we had the astroturf at stadium. 108 00:04:53,464 --> 00:04:58,664 But to me, although the game has changed in some regards, 109 00:04:58,664 --> 00:05:00,864 it's still the same as when I was a little kid. 110 00:05:00,864 --> 00:05:03,898 Do you feel the same way opening day and the excitment like you 111 00:05:03,898 --> 00:05:05,531 just talked about with Christmas? 112 00:05:05,531 --> 00:05:06,798 Yeah, without a doubt. 113 00:05:06,798 --> 00:05:09,064 You know, I grew up playing baseball. 114 00:05:09,064 --> 00:05:12,931 You know, and getting on that field and smelling the grass and 115 00:05:12,931 --> 00:05:15,198 being around the smell of the leather, 116 00:05:15,198 --> 00:05:16,831 the smell of the baseball. 117 00:05:16,831 --> 00:05:19,398 Those smells and those senses that only happen, 118 00:05:19,398 --> 00:05:21,031 you know, inside that ballpark. 119 00:05:21,031 --> 00:05:24,264 It's special and it brings me back to my childhood, 120 00:05:24,264 --> 00:05:25,264 as well. 121 00:05:25,264 --> 00:05:26,264 It's engrained in you. 122 00:05:26,264 --> 00:05:28,464 That's why you don't forget the smells. 123 00:05:28,464 --> 00:05:29,464 It's in you. 124 00:05:29,464 --> 00:05:30,464 Yeah, for sure. 125 00:05:30,464 --> 00:05:33,964 What is a typical day for Ben Weiss with the Redbirds? 126 00:05:33,964 --> 00:05:38,164 Well, the best part about my job is there is no typical day. 127 00:05:38,164 --> 00:05:40,731 You know, everyday is absolutely very, very different. 128 00:05:40,731 --> 00:05:43,331 You know, especially now that we're in season. 129 00:05:43,331 --> 00:05:46,231 Everything from, you know, promoting the ball club to 130 00:05:46,231 --> 00:05:48,798 working with our corporate sponsors to selling season 131 00:05:48,798 --> 00:05:49,798 tickets. 132 00:05:49,798 --> 00:05:51,998 In fact, just the other day I was pulling tarp with the crew. 133 00:05:51,998 --> 00:05:55,364 So I'm down on the field and I'm there for the early tarp calls 134 00:05:55,364 --> 00:05:56,398 and for the late tarp calls. 135 00:05:56,398 --> 00:05:57,464 So, you know, we do it all. 136 00:05:57,464 --> 00:06:00,531 Minor League Baseball, we're kind of all hands on deck and 137 00:06:00,531 --> 00:06:01,531 jack of all trades. 138 00:06:01,531 --> 00:06:04,498 There are so many things you do from a business standpoint which 139 00:06:04,498 --> 00:06:05,498 we'll get in to. 140 00:06:05,498 --> 00:06:08,231 But from a player personnel standpoint, 141 00:06:08,231 --> 00:06:11,898 obviously it's dependant upon what happens with the big league 142 00:06:11,898 --> 00:06:14,464 team shaping your roster. 143 00:06:14,464 --> 00:06:18,031 But are you asked by people within the cardinals 144 00:06:18,031 --> 00:06:21,531 organization for your input on certain players? 145 00:06:21,531 --> 00:06:27,564 No, no, at our level, you know especially within the Cardinals 146 00:06:27,564 --> 00:06:33,731 organization, the Cardinals just got a fantastic farm system. 147 00:06:33,731 --> 00:06:35,064 A tremendous farm director named John Vuch who's quite a bit more 148 00:06:35,064 --> 00:06:37,731 qualified than I am to make those decisions. 149 00:06:37,731 --> 00:06:41,098 Of course, John, those guys are making the player personnel 150 00:06:41,098 --> 00:06:42,264 decisions. 151 00:06:42,264 --> 00:06:45,298 They advise us when a players going up or coming down. 152 00:06:45,298 --> 00:06:48,831 And then at that point, we take over and make sure that player 153 00:06:48,831 --> 00:06:52,031 is taken care of and is comfortable and enjoys his time 154 00:06:52,031 --> 00:06:53,031 in Memphis. 155 00:06:53,031 --> 00:06:55,898 I think most people would agree that it's really nice to have a 156 00:06:55,898 --> 00:06:57,464 team that's competing. 157 00:06:57,464 --> 00:07:00,431 But even if the team is not competing, 158 00:07:00,431 --> 00:07:03,531 it's an event to go to a ball park and it's an event to go to 159 00:07:03,531 --> 00:07:06,864 Autozone Park because it is such a tremendous ball park. 160 00:07:06,864 --> 00:07:10,564 And you always look at ways to better it and last year bringing 161 00:07:10,564 --> 00:07:12,998 in this jumbotron was a tremendous cou, 162 00:07:12,998 --> 00:07:15,464 Ben, by you and the staff. 163 00:07:15,464 --> 00:07:16,464 Talk about that. 164 00:07:16,464 --> 00:07:19,264 Talk about continually trying to improve the product. 165 00:07:19,264 --> 00:07:21,298 And that, you hit the nail on the head there. 166 00:07:21,298 --> 00:07:23,231 Continually trying to raise the bar, 167 00:07:23,231 --> 00:07:26,031 improve the product, improve the fan experience. 168 00:07:26,031 --> 00:07:27,064 You know, that's our mission. 169 00:07:27,064 --> 00:07:29,664 That's our day-to-day mission is to continue to make the 170 00:07:29,664 --> 00:07:31,798 experience just that much better. 171 00:07:31,798 --> 00:07:34,131 And like you said, that video board and, 172 00:07:34,131 --> 00:07:36,264 you know, 60 by 60. 173 00:07:36,264 --> 00:07:38,631 Biggest video board in minor league baseball. 174 00:07:38,631 --> 00:07:43,498 Bigger than a handful of the big league park video boards. 175 00:07:43,498 --> 00:07:44,464 We're very proud of that. 176 00:07:44,464 --> 00:07:48,231 That just enhances our fan experience. 177 00:07:48,231 --> 00:07:49,931 The little kids come in to our ball park and their eyes light 178 00:07:49,931 --> 00:07:51,031 up. 179 00:07:51,031 --> 00:07:54,164 And then they see that video board and then they see Rocky. 180 00:07:54,164 --> 00:08:03,498 You know, we get to do that 72 home games a year and it's 181 00:08:03,498 --> 00:08:04,498 pretty special. 182 00:08:04,498 --> 00:08:05,498 You have the bluff over left field. 183 00:08:05,498 --> 00:08:07,831 You have the boardwalk where the kids go and play games because 184 00:08:07,831 --> 00:08:09,898 their interest kind of wains after a couple of innings. 185 00:08:09,898 --> 00:08:11,098 You have this beautiful jumbotron. 186 00:08:11,098 --> 00:08:12,231 What else can you do? 187 00:08:12,231 --> 00:08:13,764 What have you added for this year? 188 00:08:13,764 --> 00:08:14,764 Now, promotions. 189 00:08:14,764 --> 00:08:16,164 You're always looking to better yourself. 190 00:08:16,164 --> 00:08:17,631 Always looking to add promotions. 191 00:08:17,631 --> 00:08:19,331 You know, we listen to our fans. 192 00:08:19,331 --> 00:08:20,898 That's first and foremost. 193 00:08:20,898 --> 00:08:23,431 You know, we love our fans and, you know, 194 00:08:23,431 --> 00:08:24,531 that's who we need to listen to. 195 00:08:24,531 --> 00:08:27,831 So, we're constantly doing focus groups. 196 00:08:27,831 --> 00:08:30,064 We're listening to what our fans have to say, 197 00:08:30,064 --> 00:08:32,131 getting their feedback, adding promotions. 198 00:08:32,131 --> 00:08:34,498 They loved our promotion calendar last year. 199 00:08:34,498 --> 00:08:37,064 So we're taking that to another level having 17, 200 00:08:37,064 --> 00:08:41,031 18 giveaways each and every Friday night coupled with our 201 00:08:41,031 --> 00:08:46,264 Friday night block parties, band and beer specials pre game on 202 00:08:46,264 --> 00:08:47,264 Friday nights. 203 00:08:47,264 --> 00:08:49,598 And of course, our Saturday night fireworks, 204 00:08:49,598 --> 00:08:51,698 in my opinion, the best fireworks display in all of 205 00:08:51,698 --> 00:08:52,731 minor league baseball. 206 00:08:52,731 --> 00:08:55,998 In all 160 teams, no body beats the Memphis fireworks show. 207 00:08:55,998 --> 00:08:58,864 You know, we're proud to put that on. 208 00:08:58,864 --> 00:09:02,364 In the years you've been here in Memphis, 209 00:09:02,364 --> 00:09:07,264 do you feel that the popularity of the sport and of the product 210 00:09:07,264 --> 00:09:11,131 is growing, is stable, has decreased? 211 00:09:11,131 --> 00:09:12,264 Well, our numbers prove it. 212 00:09:12,264 --> 00:09:15,231 I think, you know, there's incremental growth. 213 00:09:15,231 --> 00:09:17,064 It's slow and steady. 214 00:09:17,064 --> 00:09:20,298 I think people appreciate the product and, 215 00:09:20,298 --> 00:09:24,398 you know, we're certainly an entertainment option in Memphis. 216 00:09:24,398 --> 00:09:30,064 And I think that's the way a lot of families view us. 217 00:09:30,064 --> 00:09:31,098 You know, who are we competing with? 218 00:09:31,098 --> 00:09:33,331 Yeah, we're competing with that Friday night movie, 219 00:09:33,331 --> 00:09:35,764 that saturday night movie, you know, 220 00:09:35,764 --> 00:09:38,631 some of the other attractions in Memphis. 221 00:09:38,631 --> 00:09:41,064 That's who we're going up against, 222 00:09:41,064 --> 00:09:45,564 you know, when the family is deciding where to spend their 223 00:09:45,564 --> 00:09:46,564 dollars. 224 00:09:46,564 --> 00:09:50,231 So friend of mine, constatnly raising the bar adding value. 225 00:09:50,231 --> 00:09:52,098 You know, when a fan comes in to the ball park, 226 00:09:52,098 --> 00:09:53,498 they know they're going to get a neat giveaway. 227 00:09:53,498 --> 00:09:55,298 They know they're going to get a tremendous firework show. 228 00:09:55,298 --> 00:09:57,698 They know they're going to get their picture with Rocky the 229 00:09:57,698 --> 00:09:58,698 Redbird. 230 00:09:58,698 --> 00:10:00,464 All those little things, you know, 231 00:10:00,464 --> 00:10:03,231 they really add up and I think that's why we've seen, 232 00:10:03,231 --> 00:10:05,498 you know, steady growth, you know, 233 00:10:05,498 --> 00:10:07,464 in the last two or three years. 234 00:10:07,464 --> 00:10:09,298 You're looking to appease the families but I would imagine 235 00:10:09,298 --> 00:10:11,631 you're also looking to go out there and get groups whether it 236 00:10:11,631 --> 00:10:18,698 be civic groups, church groups, things like that. 237 00:10:18,698 --> 00:10:19,698 Yeah, youth baseball. 238 00:10:19,698 --> 00:10:22,031 I mean, a piece of business that has really grown for us is 239 00:10:22,031 --> 00:10:24,331 allowing youth baseball teams to play on our field pre or 240 00:10:24,331 --> 00:10:25,331 postgame Redbirds games. 241 00:10:25,331 --> 00:10:29,364 So that's a neat opportunity to see those young kids, 242 00:10:29,364 --> 00:10:32,831 boys and girls, touch the grass at Autozone Park and actually be 243 00:10:32,831 --> 00:10:34,631 able to play a game. 244 00:10:34,631 --> 00:10:36,931 It's something they're going to be talking about for the rest of 245 00:10:36,931 --> 00:10:37,931 their life. 246 00:10:37,931 --> 00:10:40,298 And that's what we're doing is we're ceating lifelong baseball 247 00:10:40,298 --> 00:10:43,564 fans, lifelong Redbird fans. 248 00:10:43,564 --> 00:10:44,564 Let's go back to one of the statements I made earlier about 249 00:10:44,564 --> 00:10:45,564 having a competitive team. 250 00:10:45,564 --> 00:10:46,864 It just adds to it. 251 00:10:46,864 --> 00:10:50,464 You start off with some of the best prospects in the Cardinals 252 00:10:50,464 --> 00:10:53,864 organizations in Oscar Taveras, and Kolten Wong, 253 00:10:53,864 --> 00:10:54,864 Micheal Wacha. 254 00:10:54,864 --> 00:10:56,731 Let me make sure everybody realizes. 255 00:10:56,731 --> 00:10:58,898 Get out there and see them now because we don't know how long 256 00:10:58,898 --> 00:10:59,898 they'll be there. 257 00:10:59,898 --> 00:11:01,264 But to have this type of talent. 258 00:11:01,264 --> 00:11:04,098 Chambers is back with the Redbirds and you have other 259 00:11:04,098 --> 00:11:05,731 talent that returns. 260 00:11:05,731 --> 00:11:06,731 It's nice. 261 00:11:06,731 --> 00:11:10,431 This squad and Pop Warner has said it over the last couple of 262 00:11:10,431 --> 00:11:11,764 days, our manager. 263 00:11:11,764 --> 00:11:13,931 This squad is going to go out every night and they're going to 264 00:11:13,931 --> 00:11:14,931 compete. 265 00:11:14,931 --> 00:11:16,364 And they're going to put on a heck of a show. 266 00:11:16,364 --> 00:11:18,664 You're going to see some great ball, 267 00:11:18,664 --> 00:11:20,998 baseball down there at Third and Union. 268 00:11:20,998 --> 00:11:25,064 And you know, this is the Cardinal's future right here and 269 00:11:25,064 --> 00:11:26,631 this is something you're not going to want to miss. 270 00:11:26,631 --> 00:11:27,998 Yeah, if you look at the parent club, 271 00:11:27,998 --> 00:11:31,431 just not all of them but just about everybody went to Memphis. 272 00:11:31,431 --> 00:11:34,164 A good majority of them, you know, 273 00:11:34,164 --> 00:11:36,098 have played at Autozone Park. 274 00:11:36,098 --> 00:11:38,798 So, you know, the future is now. 275 00:11:38,798 --> 00:11:42,264 You know, this is the time to come see those future Cardinals. 276 00:11:42,264 --> 00:11:44,231 Evaluate the job Pops doing. 277 00:11:44,231 --> 00:11:45,231 Tremendous. 278 00:11:45,231 --> 00:11:46,464 Pops a tremendous competitor. 279 00:11:46,464 --> 00:11:53,531 I know he was not happy with the win-loss record last year but he 280 00:11:53,531 --> 00:11:56,631 gets those guys ready to compete every single night and he's just 281 00:11:56,631 --> 00:11:57,564 a tremendous guy. 282 00:11:57,564 --> 00:11:59,198 He's the guy that you root for and, 283 00:11:59,198 --> 00:12:01,164 you know, we love Pop. 284 00:12:01,164 --> 00:12:05,364 Something that is not good for the Cardinals but benefits the 285 00:12:05,364 --> 00:12:08,664 Redbirds and even Springfield is when a player gets hurt, 286 00:12:08,664 --> 00:12:10,531 injured and is rehabilitating. 287 00:12:10,531 --> 00:12:12,864 You have David Freese help with the team now, 288 00:12:12,864 --> 00:12:14,264 a World Series hero. 289 00:12:14,264 --> 00:12:17,031 It's always an added bonus when fans can come over, 290 00:12:17,031 --> 00:12:19,498 watch your team and then, "Oh, David Freese is there as well." 291 00:12:19,498 --> 00:12:24,564 Opening weekend David Freese, we're pretty happy about that. 292 00:12:24,564 --> 00:12:26,264 So, we'll see. 293 00:12:26,264 --> 00:12:31,731 What is the goal from you and your staff for the future with 294 00:12:31,731 --> 00:12:32,731 this organization? 295 00:12:32,731 --> 00:12:35,131 What kind of goals do you make for yourselves? 296 00:12:35,131 --> 00:12:36,998 Each year we, you know, like I said, 297 00:12:36,998 --> 00:12:39,264 we try to raise the level of customer service, 298 00:12:39,264 --> 00:12:42,698 fan experience and continue to grow that fan base, 299 00:12:42,698 --> 00:12:45,864 continue to sell, you know, additional season tickets, 300 00:12:45,864 --> 00:12:49,064 continue to reach out to the corperate community and grow our 301 00:12:49,064 --> 00:12:50,064 corperate support. 302 00:12:50,064 --> 00:12:53,464 And you know, we've been successful at that the last few 303 00:12:53,464 --> 00:12:54,464 years. 304 00:12:54,464 --> 00:12:56,964 So the goals just keep growing that business, 305 00:12:56,964 --> 00:12:59,131 keep growing Redbirds fans. 306 00:12:59,131 --> 00:13:00,264 Do you ever bend? 307 00:13:00,264 --> 00:13:03,731 Do you ever go on the road or have members of your staff go on 308 00:13:03,731 --> 00:13:06,431 the road and see what's happening at other minor league 309 00:13:06,431 --> 00:13:07,431 parks? 310 00:13:07,431 --> 00:13:08,431 I do. 311 00:13:08,431 --> 00:13:10,831 I'm lucky enough to get out there on the road and 312 00:13:10,831 --> 00:13:12,098 occasionally go out with our team. 313 00:13:12,098 --> 00:13:14,898 But I go to these other parks for our all-star game, 314 00:13:14,898 --> 00:13:17,098 our national championship game. 315 00:13:17,098 --> 00:13:20,131 If we make the play-offs, I'll be on the road with the team for 316 00:13:20,131 --> 00:13:22,764 our potential play-off run. 317 00:13:22,764 --> 00:13:24,364 And that's when you can really, you know, 318 00:13:24,364 --> 00:13:25,664 you're kind of doing your homework out there. 319 00:13:25,664 --> 00:13:27,564 You're seeing what new promotions are out there. 320 00:13:27,564 --> 00:13:32,398 You're seeing what new ballpark attractions are out there and, 321 00:13:32,398 --> 00:13:35,298 you know, see if we can take a few ideas and bring them back 322 00:13:35,298 --> 00:13:36,264 here to Memphis. 323 00:13:36,264 --> 00:13:38,398 I would imagine some minor league teams out there, 324 00:13:38,398 --> 00:13:41,164 some organizations try to emulate what you guys are doing 325 00:13:41,164 --> 00:13:47,298 knowing that you have this amazing stadium that if they 326 00:13:47,298 --> 00:13:48,298 certainly can afford it financially, 327 00:13:48,298 --> 00:13:49,764 that they're going to want to model it after it. 328 00:13:49,764 --> 00:13:53,931 Yeah, you know, we meet as a minor league baseball community 329 00:13:53,931 --> 00:13:55,531 once or twice a year. 330 00:13:55,531 --> 00:13:57,931 And, you know, the best part about the minor league baseball 331 00:13:57,931 --> 00:14:00,431 community is we are open books. 332 00:14:00,431 --> 00:14:01,831 We share data. 333 00:14:01,831 --> 00:14:02,964 We share what's working. 334 00:14:02,964 --> 00:14:05,798 We share what's not working in each different market. 335 00:14:05,798 --> 00:14:08,464 And certainly a lot of questions get asked. 336 00:14:08,464 --> 00:14:10,331 "What are you guys doing in Memphis?" 337 00:14:10,331 --> 00:14:11,398 "What's working in Memphis?" 338 00:14:11,398 --> 00:14:14,564 And you know, that's a good thing is that people are keeping 339 00:14:14,564 --> 00:14:16,431 their eye on what we're doing here. 340 00:14:16,431 --> 00:14:18,298 Ben, how about a triple-A all-star game? 341 00:14:18,298 --> 00:14:19,998 We would love to host it. 342 00:14:19,998 --> 00:14:20,998 We would love to host it. 343 00:14:20,998 --> 00:14:21,998 How does that go? 344 00:14:21,998 --> 00:14:22,998 How do you try to? 345 00:14:22,998 --> 00:14:25,364 It alternates from International League to Pacific Coast League 346 00:14:25,364 --> 00:14:26,364 each year. 347 00:14:26,364 --> 00:14:28,764 And usually, there's a bid process. 348 00:14:28,764 --> 00:14:34,231 You need to, you know, kind of campaign and get the word out 349 00:14:34,231 --> 00:14:37,164 there that you'd be intersted in that. 350 00:14:37,164 --> 00:14:41,831 And then the two leagues, the two triple-A leagues make the 351 00:14:41,831 --> 00:14:42,831 decision. 352 00:14:42,831 --> 00:14:44,831 So, that's a possibility down the road. 353 00:14:44,831 --> 00:14:48,064 I know they're booked for the next two seasons. 354 00:14:48,064 --> 00:14:49,731 So, we'll see. 355 00:14:49,731 --> 00:14:53,164 Civic responsibilites for the Redbirds organization. 356 00:14:53,164 --> 00:14:55,531 I know it's very important to do things in the community, 357 00:14:55,531 --> 00:14:57,064 go back to the stripe programs. 358 00:14:57,064 --> 00:14:58,064 These are important. 359 00:14:58,064 --> 00:15:03,631 Yes, still active and, you know, we're proud to say that we still 360 00:15:03,631 --> 00:15:06,831 touch in our RBI program, you know, 361 00:15:06,831 --> 00:15:12,364 almost 1,000 at-risk youth every summer with our RBI program. 362 00:15:12,364 --> 00:15:14,798 You know, not only teaching baseball skills, 363 00:15:14,798 --> 00:15:16,931 softball skills but life skills. 364 00:15:16,931 --> 00:15:19,064 We provide the kids a meal everytime they come out to 365 00:15:19,064 --> 00:15:20,164 practice. 366 00:15:20,164 --> 00:15:24,264 And then of course, it culminates with a trip down to 367 00:15:24,264 --> 00:15:26,798 Autozone Park and watching the Redbirds play. 368 00:15:26,798 --> 00:15:28,598 So, it's a great program. 369 00:15:28,598 --> 00:15:30,764 We're very, very proud of it. 370 00:15:30,764 --> 00:15:33,198 And always looking for additional corporate community 371 00:15:33,198 --> 00:15:34,198 support on that. 372 00:15:34,198 --> 00:15:35,931 So, you know, if you're interested, 373 00:15:35,931 --> 00:15:37,164 please certainly help us. 374 00:15:37,164 --> 00:15:38,798 Provide a number that they can call. 375 00:15:38,798 --> 00:15:43,164 Definitely go on the website or 721-6000. 376 00:15:43,164 --> 00:15:46,298 Call that number and, you know, we're always looking for 377 00:15:46,298 --> 00:15:47,298 additional hands. 378 00:15:47,298 --> 00:15:49,498 Now will that be the number also if people are interested in 379 00:15:49,498 --> 00:15:50,498 purchsing tickets? 380 00:15:50,498 --> 00:15:51,531 Absolutely, absolutely. 381 00:15:51,531 --> 00:15:53,831 And the website I would imagine is going strong. 382 00:15:53,831 --> 00:15:55,298 Yep, Memphisredbirds-dot-com. 383 00:15:55,298 --> 00:15:57,231 In fact, a brand new look this year. 384 00:15:57,231 --> 00:15:59,931 A lot of information on there. 385 00:15:59,931 --> 00:16:03,264 You know, one thing we heard from our fans in they wanted 386 00:16:03,264 --> 00:16:04,964 more player contact information. 387 00:16:04,964 --> 00:16:08,431 We were happy to provide that. 388 00:16:08,431 --> 00:16:09,731 And check our our website. 389 00:16:09,731 --> 00:16:12,164 It's got a ton of information on it. 390 00:16:12,164 --> 00:16:15,564 Ben, very briefly, being a part of a non-profit with the 391 00:16:15,564 --> 00:16:20,331 Redbirds Foundation, how restrictive is that? 392 00:16:20,331 --> 00:16:23,264 Does that pose some issues? 393 00:16:23,264 --> 00:16:24,264 It does. 394 00:16:24,264 --> 00:16:26,098 it's not restrictive at all. 395 00:16:26,098 --> 00:16:30,831 I mean, we still run our business and we still run our 396 00:16:30,831 --> 00:16:34,398 minor league club in the same fashion that most of the other 397 00:16:34,398 --> 00:16:35,398 clubs do. 398 00:16:35,398 --> 00:16:39,131 You know, of course there's some financial and accounting things 399 00:16:39,131 --> 00:16:40,598 that need to take place. 400 00:16:40,598 --> 00:16:43,664 But other than that, to be honest with you.. 401 00:16:43,664 --> 00:16:44,664 No major barriers. 402 00:16:44,664 --> 00:16:46,164 No handcuffs, so we're good. 403 00:16:46,164 --> 00:16:48,264 We like to end each one of our interviews. 404 00:16:48,264 --> 00:16:52,231 Find out a little bit more about our guests with Five for the 405 00:16:52,231 --> 00:16:53,231 Road. 406 00:16:53,231 --> 00:16:54,998 So it's five questions, quick answers. 407 00:16:54,998 --> 00:16:56,631 Try not to think about it too thoroughly here. 408 00:16:56,631 --> 00:16:58,698 Just maybe the first thing that comes to mind. 409 00:16:58,698 --> 00:17:01,798 Favorite professional team in sports, 410 00:17:01,798 --> 00:17:03,031 in all of sports? 411 00:17:03,031 --> 00:17:04,031 Don't say the Cardinals. 412 00:17:04,031 --> 00:17:06,298 If I wasn't going to say the Cardinals, 413 00:17:06,298 --> 00:17:07,731 I'd say teh Philadelphia Phillies. 414 00:17:07,731 --> 00:17:08,731 How about that? 415 00:17:08,731 --> 00:17:09,731 Now where did you grow up? 416 00:17:09,731 --> 00:17:10,731 Allentown, Pennsylvania. 417 00:17:10,731 --> 00:17:11,731 Are you kidding me? 418 00:17:11,731 --> 00:17:12,731 Yeah. 419 00:17:12,731 --> 00:17:13,731 Here we go. 420 00:17:13,731 --> 00:17:14,731 So we rooted for the same team. 421 00:17:14,731 --> 00:17:15,731 I'm from south Jersey but.. 422 00:17:15,731 --> 00:17:17,098 When you said that, I said, "Now here we go." 423 00:17:17,098 --> 00:17:18,131 Absolutely, alright. 424 00:17:18,131 --> 00:17:20,831 Favorite pro athlete of all time? 425 00:17:20,831 --> 00:17:23,764 Of all time, Arnold Palmer. 426 00:17:23,764 --> 00:17:24,764 Really? 427 00:17:24,764 --> 00:17:28,898 Yep, grew up playing golf and my dad was a big Arnie fan and had 428 00:17:28,898 --> 00:17:33,064 the chance to meet him at a US Senior Open a few years ago. 429 00:17:33,064 --> 00:17:34,498 Well, not a few years ago. 430 00:17:34,498 --> 00:17:36,298 Maybe 20 years ago now. 431 00:17:36,298 --> 00:17:37,298 Time flies. 432 00:17:37,298 --> 00:17:38,298 Yeah, really. 433 00:17:38,298 --> 00:17:39,864 And just what a gentleman. 434 00:17:39,864 --> 00:17:41,264 He's a Pennsylvania guy, too. 435 00:17:41,264 --> 00:17:42,264 He is. 436 00:17:42,264 --> 00:17:43,531 Latrobe or somewhere in that area. 437 00:17:43,531 --> 00:17:46,064 Surprised you didn't go Mike Schmidt but I understand. 438 00:17:46,064 --> 00:17:47,064 I love Schmidty. 439 00:17:47,064 --> 00:17:49,364 Favorite music, musician, genre? 440 00:17:49,364 --> 00:17:50,798 What do you listen to? 441 00:17:50,798 --> 00:17:53,664 Driving around in your car, what do you listen to? 442 00:17:53,664 --> 00:17:55,764 Yeah, I love the rock music. 443 00:17:55,764 --> 00:17:58,498 You know, still one of my all-time favorite bands is 444 00:17:58,498 --> 00:17:59,498 Incubus. 445 00:17:59,498 --> 00:18:01,698 Kind of grew up in college listening to them. 446 00:18:01,698 --> 00:18:02,698 Look at you! 447 00:18:02,698 --> 00:18:03,698 I still love Incubus. 448 00:18:03,698 --> 00:18:06,064 I don't even know if they make records anymore but I still 449 00:18:06,064 --> 00:18:08,831 listen to the old stuff. 450 00:18:08,831 --> 00:18:09,831 Who knew? 451 00:18:09,831 --> 00:18:11,264 Favorite movie of all time? 452 00:18:11,264 --> 00:18:12,831 You and I both saw.. 453 00:18:12,831 --> 00:18:14,064 I'll go with that! 454 00:18:14,064 --> 00:18:15,064 42 right there. 455 00:18:15,064 --> 00:18:19,398 Wow, that was a great event you guys put on to have the premiere 456 00:18:19,398 --> 00:18:21,698 that we got to see last week. 457 00:18:21,698 --> 00:18:22,764 Wow, what a great movie! 458 00:18:22,764 --> 00:18:26,631 My wife and I were talking about for probably two days after that 459 00:18:26,631 --> 00:18:31,764 just how, what a phenomenal story and tremendous production. 460 00:18:31,764 --> 00:18:32,764 Need to go see it. 461 00:18:32,764 --> 00:18:35,798 First Lady Michelle Obama said everybody should see it. 462 00:18:35,798 --> 00:18:38,564 It should be a must see if you can get a chance to get out 463 00:18:38,564 --> 00:18:39,564 there. 464 00:18:39,564 --> 00:18:42,298 Finally we'll wrap it up with your favorite television show of 465 00:18:42,298 --> 00:18:43,298 all time. 466 00:18:43,298 --> 00:18:44,298 Of all time.. 467 00:18:44,298 --> 00:18:45,898 Is there something right now when you go home? 468 00:18:45,898 --> 00:18:46,898 You know what? 469 00:18:46,898 --> 00:18:50,164 I really like this show called Dual Survivor I think it's 470 00:18:50,164 --> 00:18:51,164 called. 471 00:18:51,164 --> 00:18:52,164 It's on Discover channel. 472 00:18:52,164 --> 00:18:55,964 It's these two guys that go out and make themselves lost in the 473 00:18:55,964 --> 00:18:56,898 wilderness. 474 00:18:56,898 --> 00:18:57,898 Oh, one of those deals. 475 00:18:57,898 --> 00:18:58,898 I'm in to that! 476 00:18:58,898 --> 00:18:59,898 It's neat! 477 00:18:59,898 --> 00:19:00,964 I watch a lot oft hat reality stuff. 478 00:19:00,964 --> 00:19:01,964 You never know what's going to happen! 479 00:19:01,964 --> 00:19:03,831 I haven't seen that one yet but I'll make sure I check it out. 480 00:19:03,831 --> 00:19:05,531 And folks, you make sure to check out the Redbirds. 481 00:19:05,531 --> 00:19:07,598 They got a eight game home stand to start the season. 482 00:19:07,598 --> 00:19:08,764 Ben Weiss, always a pleasure. 483 00:19:08,764 --> 00:19:09,764 Thank you. 484 00:19:09,764 --> 00:19:10,764 Thank you so much. 485 00:19:10,764 --> 00:19:12,631 We'll take a short break, come back with Overtime right after 486 00:19:12,631 --> 00:19:14,664 this. 487 00:19:14,664 --> 00:19:48,598 ♪♪♪ 488 00:19:48,598 --> 00:19:50,998 As many of you know, the University of Memphis Men's 489 00:19:50,998 --> 00:19:53,264 Basketball program has put together one of the nation's top 490 00:19:53,264 --> 00:19:55,898 recruiting classes for 2013. 491 00:19:55,898 --> 00:19:58,731 Five top level players signed scholarships, 492 00:19:58,731 --> 00:20:02,264 and if all qualify, Memphis has it's version of the Fab Five. 493 00:20:02,264 --> 00:20:04,331 But here's a little secret. 494 00:20:04,331 --> 00:20:06,298 It's actually a Fab Six. 495 00:20:06,298 --> 00:20:09,198 Olive Branch High School product Sam Craft will also be a part of 496 00:20:09,198 --> 00:20:10,198 that class. 497 00:20:10,198 --> 00:20:12,964 But priority one for Sam is football. 498 00:20:12,964 --> 00:20:15,364 Craft signed with Justin Fuente and the Tigers, 499 00:20:15,364 --> 00:20:17,398 but expects to play both sports. 500 00:20:17,398 --> 00:20:19,831 As a senior Quarterback for the Conquistadors, 501 00:20:19,831 --> 00:20:23,364 Craft threw for nearly 1800 yards and 14 touchdowns. 502 00:20:23,364 --> 00:20:26,531 But he also rushed for nearly a thousand with 16 scores, 503 00:20:26,531 --> 00:20:28,664 and caught four more touchdowns. 504 00:20:28,664 --> 00:20:31,964 At Memphis, he will likely be used as a slot receiver. 505 00:20:31,964 --> 00:20:35,431 In hoops, Craft averaged 23 points and four blocks per game 506 00:20:35,431 --> 00:20:36,598 with Olive Branch. 507 00:20:36,598 --> 00:20:39,464 He is also a star on the track and field team. 508 00:20:39,464 --> 00:20:41,531 But three sports at Memphis? 509 00:20:41,531 --> 00:20:44,064 Not even a great athlete like Sam Craft will attempt to do 510 00:20:44,064 --> 00:20:45,664 that. 511 00:20:45,664 --> 00:20:47,998 Scott, you've had a number of talented players walk through 512 00:20:47,998 --> 00:20:49,331 the doors here at Olive Branch. 513 00:20:49,331 --> 00:20:50,364 Tell me about Sam Craft. 514 00:20:50,364 --> 00:20:58,764 Sam is probably the most fast twitch guy I've ever coached. 515 00:20:58,764 --> 00:21:01,964 That may not mean a whole lot to the lay person but to somebody 516 00:21:01,964 --> 00:21:05,198 that's in the business will understand what I'm saying. 517 00:21:05,198 --> 00:21:09,364 He's real, real quick, got real good balance, 518 00:21:09,364 --> 00:21:10,864 great eye-hand coordination. 519 00:21:10,864 --> 00:21:15,564 But you know, the most important thing to me about Sam Craft is 520 00:21:15,564 --> 00:21:18,164 the type of person that he is. 521 00:21:18,164 --> 00:21:21,564 And you know, Sam Craft the athlete is going to get old and 522 00:21:21,564 --> 00:21:23,831 fat just like me one of these days. 523 00:21:23,831 --> 00:21:26,698 But Sam Craft the person is going to live for a long time 524 00:21:26,698 --> 00:21:30,064 and going to be a solid citizen and a good person to be a 525 00:21:30,064 --> 00:21:31,964 neighbor and that sort of stuff. 526 00:21:31,964 --> 00:21:34,364 And that's the thing that really matter to me about Sam. 527 00:21:34,364 --> 00:21:36,264 Well, Sam, you just heard Coach describe you. 528 00:21:36,264 --> 00:21:37,831 Describe yourself to everyone. 529 00:21:37,831 --> 00:21:40,964 As a person, I just describe myself as being humble, 530 00:21:40,964 --> 00:21:44,398 just thanking God for all the talent that he's gtiven me. 531 00:21:44,398 --> 00:21:48,164 I describe myself as a football player where I can make plays 532 00:21:48,164 --> 00:21:49,164 for my team. 533 00:21:49,164 --> 00:21:50,664 I try to play together. 534 00:21:50,664 --> 00:21:52,231 I do everything by myself. 535 00:21:52,231 --> 00:21:56,298 So, I just work hard and get better everyday when I go to 536 00:21:56,298 --> 00:21:58,131 practice and stay humble as a person, 537 00:21:58,131 --> 00:21:59,131 too. 538 00:21:59,131 --> 00:22:00,764 Sam, you spent three years at Craigmont then transferred to 539 00:22:00,764 --> 00:22:01,764 Olive Branch. 540 00:22:01,764 --> 00:22:03,798 What was it like to have this year with the Conquistadors? 541 00:22:03,798 --> 00:22:05,331 Oh, it was great. 542 00:22:05,331 --> 00:22:08,831 Coach, well, he let me in with open arms. 543 00:22:08,831 --> 00:22:09,998 I felt wanted. 544 00:22:09,998 --> 00:22:13,598 He helped me become a better football player and also a 545 00:22:13,598 --> 00:22:14,798 better person. 546 00:22:14,798 --> 00:22:17,464 My teammates, none of this would be possible without them. 547 00:22:17,464 --> 00:22:20,131 They made me look just as good on the field. 548 00:22:20,131 --> 00:22:21,798 Sam, why the University of Memphis? 549 00:22:21,798 --> 00:22:23,298 I'm a Memphis boy. 550 00:22:23,298 --> 00:22:26,264 I've been a fan since I was born. 551 00:22:26,264 --> 00:22:28,131 My father played at Memphis. 552 00:22:28,131 --> 00:22:30,731 Other schools recruited me, real good schools. 553 00:22:30,731 --> 00:22:34,364 And I thought about going but I looked back on it and Memphis is 554 00:22:34,364 --> 00:22:35,364 the best. 555 00:22:35,364 --> 00:22:36,864 It's the best fit for me. 556 00:22:36,864 --> 00:22:38,831 Sam, you play quarterback at Olive Branch. 557 00:22:38,831 --> 00:22:40,964 Where do you expect to play at Memphis? 558 00:22:40,964 --> 00:22:45,198 I expect to come to Memphis one because Fuente let me make the 559 00:22:45,198 --> 00:22:46,198 plays. 560 00:22:46,198 --> 00:22:49,098 I'll be more than welcome to play there from quarterback to 561 00:22:49,098 --> 00:22:52,031 me playing defensive back, side reciever or kick returner, 562 00:22:52,031 --> 00:22:53,031 punt returner. 563 00:22:53,031 --> 00:22:55,964 What position are you most comfortable with? 564 00:22:55,964 --> 00:22:57,698 With the ball in my hands. 565 00:22:57,698 --> 00:22:58,698 So offensively? 566 00:22:58,698 --> 00:22:59,698 Yes, sir. 567 00:22:59,698 --> 00:23:02,498 There are a lot of young men who decide they want to leave the 568 00:23:02,498 --> 00:23:03,498 area. 569 00:23:03,498 --> 00:23:05,531 They don't want to stay and play at Memphis. 570 00:23:05,531 --> 00:23:09,298 You're a Memphis area kid who decided to stay. 571 00:23:09,298 --> 00:23:12,231 Do you like the pressure that's going to come with it? 572 00:23:12,231 --> 00:23:14,031 It's pressure but at the same time, 573 00:23:14,031 --> 00:23:15,964 that's what you want as a player. 574 00:23:15,964 --> 00:23:18,998 Yeah, you want your family and friends to be able to come and 575 00:23:18,998 --> 00:23:20,164 watch you every home game. 576 00:23:20,164 --> 00:23:23,131 That's a lot of love that's going to be showed in the city 577 00:23:23,131 --> 00:23:24,131 of Memphis. 578 00:23:24,131 --> 00:23:27,864 And some of the players, they leave out of the state to go 579 00:23:27,864 --> 00:23:28,864 play other places. 580 00:23:28,864 --> 00:23:31,698 They get forgotten and I just want to be remembered and to 581 00:23:31,698 --> 00:23:34,531 change the football program around would be a real good way 582 00:23:34,531 --> 00:23:35,531 to be remembered. 583 00:23:35,531 --> 00:23:36,664 So which sport are you better at, 584 00:23:36,664 --> 00:23:37,664 football or basketball? 585 00:23:37,664 --> 00:23:41,998 It's crazy because I have the question asked to me for so 586 00:23:41,998 --> 00:23:42,998 long. 587 00:23:42,998 --> 00:23:45,931 I really can't say because I love both sports dearly. 588 00:23:45,931 --> 00:23:50,098 And I just play so hard so I really can't say which one I'm 589 00:23:50,098 --> 00:23:51,098 better at. 590 00:23:51,098 --> 00:23:52,731 So, you're also running track at Olive Branch. 591 00:23:52,731 --> 00:23:54,164 Basketball, football and track. 592 00:23:54,164 --> 00:23:56,564 Are you going to try to play three sports at Memphis? 593 00:23:56,564 --> 00:23:59,198 I try to be a star at whatever sport I play. 594 00:23:59,198 --> 00:24:02,298 Sam, is there any doubt you'll play both sports at Memphis? 595 00:24:02,298 --> 00:24:03,298 There's no doubt. 596 00:24:03,298 --> 00:24:04,698 My freshman year, I'm going to play both sports. 597 00:24:04,698 --> 00:24:07,231 If it doesn't work out as I want it to be, 598 00:24:07,231 --> 00:24:08,831 I will just stick to football. 599 00:24:08,831 --> 00:24:10,164 Footballs where you have your scholarship. 600 00:24:10,164 --> 00:24:11,164 Yes, sir. 601 00:24:11,164 --> 00:24:12,364 What do you know about your college coach, 602 00:24:12,364 --> 00:24:13,898 Justin Fuente? 603 00:24:13,898 --> 00:24:15,798 Coach Fuente, he's a great guy. 604 00:24:15,798 --> 00:24:20,331 He asked me did I want to come to Memphis and I told him, 605 00:24:20,331 --> 00:24:23,864 "Oh, yes sir,' so I think he's changed this program around in 606 00:24:23,864 --> 00:24:25,598 one year like very fast. 607 00:24:25,598 --> 00:24:27,498 And I think in a couple more years, 608 00:24:27,498 --> 00:24:30,831 it'll be one of the top football schools in the country. 609 00:24:30,831 --> 00:24:33,498 Sam, what is the one thing you'll take away from playing 610 00:24:33,498 --> 00:24:35,264 for Coach Samsel here at Olive Branch? 611 00:24:35,264 --> 00:24:38,531 Just being dedicated in the classroom. 612 00:24:38,531 --> 00:24:41,998 I've came a long way in doing my school work. 613 00:24:41,998 --> 00:24:44,231 but Coach Samsel, he know I can play. 614 00:24:44,231 --> 00:24:47,931 I can play ball but he was always on me about making sure I 615 00:24:47,931 --> 00:24:49,364 had my classwork done. 616 00:24:49,364 --> 00:24:50,664 Well Sam, best of luck in Memphis. 617 00:24:50,664 --> 00:24:52,098 We're looking forward to watching you play there. 618 00:24:52,098 --> 00:24:53,231 Thank you so much for your time. 619 00:24:53,231 --> 00:24:54,231 Thank you. 620 00:24:54,231 --> 00:24:55,231 Scott, always a pleasure. 621 00:24:55,231 --> 00:24:56,698 Thank you. 622 00:24:56,698 --> 00:24:59,498 As we say goodnight, we do so with heavy hearts after the news 623 00:24:59,498 --> 00:25:02,231 of the recent passing of former Memphis Tigers hoop star Bobby 624 00:25:02,231 --> 00:25:03,231 Parks. 625 00:25:03,231 --> 00:25:05,464 Parks died of cancer at the age of 51, 626 00:25:05,464 --> 00:25:08,331 in his home away from home, the Phillipines. 627 00:25:08,331 --> 00:25:11,064 Parks was the consumate hard worker who made his teammates, 628 00:25:11,064 --> 00:25:12,564 and thus his team, better. 629 00:25:12,564 --> 00:25:15,364 He was part of the recruiting class of 1980 and helped the 630 00:25:15,364 --> 00:25:19,464 Tigers to three straight sweet 16 appearances in the NCAA 631 00:25:19,464 --> 00:25:20,464 tournament. 632 00:25:20,464 --> 00:25:23,598 He is the school's 19th all time leading scorer. 633 00:25:23,598 --> 00:25:25,798 His pro career took him to the Phillipines, 634 00:25:25,798 --> 00:25:28,931 where he became a legendary figure both on and off the 635 00:25:28,931 --> 00:25:29,931 court. 636 00:25:29,931 --> 00:25:31,998 Our thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and family of 637 00:25:31,998 --> 00:25:34,498 Bobby and the entire Tiger nation. 638 00:25:34,498 --> 00:25:36,164 And that will do it for this week. 639 00:25:36,164 --> 00:25:39,064 Remember you can see any of our previous shows by heading to our 640 00:25:39,064 --> 00:25:43,364 website at WKNO-dot-org and clicking on KNO Tonite. 641 00:25:43,364 --> 00:25:45,364 And we'll see you next time. 642 00:25:45,864 --> 00:25:49,864 ♪♪♪