“Which active (NFL) player is the best role model on and off the field?” Sports Illustrated (December 7 issue) asked that question in its NFL players poll. Kurt Warner of the Cardinals with 18 percent of the vote and Peyton Manning of the Colts at 17 percent finished one-two.
Don’t be surprised if the Vikings choose Gophers wide receiver Eric Decker in the later rounds of next year’s NFL draft. Decker’s chances of being drafted by the home town team might be enhanced by the trust between Vikings coach Brad Childress and Gophers coach Tim Brewster.
The Wild remains interested in hosting a New Year’s Day outdoor hockey game, with TCF Bank Stadium and Target Field both being considered. A franchise source said planning is still in the “infancy stages” and that other NHL franchises are interested in hosting New Year’s Day outdoor games. The NHL office makes those decisions as it does the annual site for the June entry draft, another attraction that interests the Wild.
The Wolves Kevin Love, 2-19 on three point field goal attempts last season, is 4-6 in two games this season. He’s averaging 14.5 points and 10.5 rebounds since returning to the active roster following his hand injury.
The Wolves had a ticket promotion last week offering $10 lower level and $5 upper level tickets for a game against Utah. The club has a regular Wednesday night $5 ticket promotion for college students.
Author Jim Holden has a special $30 holiday offer on his book, Tennis in the Northland. The former Northfield tennis coach has written a comprehensive history of boys’ high school tennis in Minnesota. More information including how to contact Holden at https://www.jim-holden.com/.