Afternoon all
Well, that was interesting. Another win for Sporting KC, this time over Chivas USA, see's them 3 points clear at the top of MLS and 6 points clear of nearest challengers New York Red Bulls in the Eastern conference. The 1-0 win meant Sporting KC would finish the day 4-0-0 for the first time in the teams history. However, despite another solid win, the technical difficulties that we had on our broadcast over shadowed events at The Home Depot Center for every single 1 of us involved with TV. We've explained what happened on Twitter and as much as we'd like to move past this, I do feel as though we owe you an explanation. So here we go......
For those who don't know how we do our broadcasts on the road, we basically rent a small truck and use our main piece of rather expensive equipment called a 'tricaster' to run the show. Now i'm probably not the best person to explain how it works as my knowledge of it is extremely limited. I just know as soon as I found out it wasn't working at around 3pm PT, my heart sank. Almost everything on the road is run of this piece of machinery. Now we expect equipment to get a bit of wear and tear on the road as we carry it all (14/15 bags and cases) through the airport between the 5 of us, but it was only week 4!! Our only guess is that someone from a certain airline decided to throw it rather then place it. If thats the case, i'm impressed! That thing is exceptionally heavy! We scoured through contacts through out California to find out if there was 1 we could rent for the day. Unfortunately, nobody had 1 within California and the stress began to take place. Not having the tricaster would mean we would have to abandon ALL graphics (as most of you saw with the score bug), which also meant the transitions to most other things in the broadcast were extremely sharp and nowhere near as smooth as per usual. On top of all this, we then appeared to have internal audio issues, which meant both Jake (@jakeyadrich) and I couldn't hear our director Chris (@ctwyche) for the most part of the first 2 segments. However, the 1 incident which did make me laugh more then anything was during the highlights of the FC Dallas game (which Jake pre produced). You guys must remember viewing the highlights, right? Must be nice...... our monitor cut out so Jake and I were doing it completely blind! Oh the joys of technical difficulties. Either way, it was an absolute miracle that was even had a show on Sunday. Chris, Craig, Eric and Abner (@abnerha) were absolutely brilliant. The highlights we showed at the end of the game....... we took Chivas USA's TV feed for a few moments, brilliant thinking from the production boys. I remember Chris saying in my ear "we have highlights, when you get it back, go to highlights" and I paused for a brief second whilst Jake was talking and thought to myself 'how...... just how have you managed that'!! That day made me realize that even with 1 of the smallest TV crew's on the road, we have one of the best groups within MLS. Any questions you have about that broadcast, please post them at the bottom of this blog and i'll see if I can answer them for you. Sincere apologies, it'll be fixed by the time we head up to Vancouver.
Right, on a more positive note I think the next 2 games are huge for Sporting KC. LA Galaxy and Real Salt Lake, arguably amongst the top 3 sides in MLS and we have them at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park. ESPN are in town for the Galaxy game, but keep your eyes pealed, we have an announcement coming this week.
So despite the chaos and madness of LA, being home in Kansas City for 2 weeks is very much on my mind. Its funny, doing what we do can be very stressful and chaotic, but we wouldn't have it any other way. Certain things have fallen into place for me over recent weeks and I think things could get even better! I have to say, life is fantastic! I spoke to my Mom today and remember uttering the words "I think this is the happiest i've ever been in my life". We go to so many great cities on our travels, but KC is certainly the most friendliest and has that homely feeling about it. I love it here!
So, sorry Kansas City, you're stuck with me for a while yet. Talk to you all on Thursday evening from 6PM on 610 Sports Radio.
Cheers
Cal
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Monday, March 26, 2012
Exciting times
Morning all
Sporting KC find themselves 3-0-0 for the first time for 6 years and top of the MLS pile with 9 points. Such a solid start for Sporting and again a deserved victory over FC Dallas yesterday evening. We'll get to that in a second....
During the week, it was much of the same pre producing of the radio show, voice overs and research for me during the week as well as giving an interview or 2. Switching from both the front office downtown and LIVESTRONG Sporting Park for working duties once again which to be honest I really don't mind. Lots of fun characters in both buildings.
It was quite nice to see Kansas City on a Friday night this week also. Can't recall the last time that happened or indeed if it ever had before! It was lovely to head downtown for a night out with some of the sales guys and the usual characters such as Justin and Dan (@the_doubledown) and meet some new people, kind of. We even had an appearance from Mr. Stylish himself, Josh Whisenhunt (@joshwhisenhunt)! Really enjoyed that night out. Saturday was possibly the most laziest day i've had since I got back to KC. I lay in bed listening to BBC Radio 5Live's coverage of the EPL and managed to catch Columbus Crew - Montreal Impact a bits of Toronto FC - San Jose Earthquakes on MLS Live. Another excellent call by Luke Wileman (@lukewileman) up in Toronto by the way, give him a follow, 1 of the best announcers in MLS.
So, to our game on Sunday, I thought FC Dallas did very well defensively but also in spurts looked very dangerous going forward. George John marked CJ Sapong superbly, I think John had 1 of the better defensive displays i've seen in a while yesterday. Ricardo Villar I find very easy on the eye when he's in the kind of form he is at the moment. I think I described his goal as 'vintage' as he hit the net and its safe to say it really was a wonderful strike. For me the timing of Sportings equalizer was key. Jake (@jakeyadrich) mentioned the word momentum on the call and I think if any team gets a goal on the stroke of half time, they go in at the half way point full of momentum. In the first half Sporting seemed to struggle to find a way through the FC Dallas back line, but in the 2nd half, with momentum behind them, they looked a lot more confident and seemed more adventurous as well. Kamara was denied a 2nd of the season thank to a fantastic save from Hartman from the penalty spot, but he got his just rewards in the end and I think Kevin Hartman may want to look at his positioning for that goal.
All in all, another busy week in MLS. Don't forget we have the Olympic qualifiers on Saturday March 31st and Monday 2nd April at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park, hopefully the USA will be competing! We're on MLS duties once again this coming weekend, looking forward to our trip to the Home Depot Center, I always feel like i'm on a movie set strutting through the streets of Los Angeles. I think Sporting KC have a good chance of snatching all 3 points at Chivas USA, but remember, they did just beat Real Salt Lake at 'fortress' Rio Tinto stadium. Also as an Aston Villa fan it always nice to see Juan Pablo Angel playing also. Could be a good contest, I wonder if our old friend Ryan Smith will make an appearance? Who knows!
Jake and I will have the call on KSMO - TV. We get underway at 7.30pm CT for the pre game show. We also have the regular slot on 610 Sports Radio on Thursday evening from 7-8pm CT, hoping to have a Chivas USA guest confirmed later today.
Tune in on Thursday and see you all on Sunday from LA.
Cheers
Cal
Sporting KC find themselves 3-0-0 for the first time for 6 years and top of the MLS pile with 9 points. Such a solid start for Sporting and again a deserved victory over FC Dallas yesterday evening. We'll get to that in a second....
During the week, it was much of the same pre producing of the radio show, voice overs and research for me during the week as well as giving an interview or 2. Switching from both the front office downtown and LIVESTRONG Sporting Park for working duties once again which to be honest I really don't mind. Lots of fun characters in both buildings.
It was quite nice to see Kansas City on a Friday night this week also. Can't recall the last time that happened or indeed if it ever had before! It was lovely to head downtown for a night out with some of the sales guys and the usual characters such as Justin and Dan (@the_doubledown) and meet some new people, kind of. We even had an appearance from Mr. Stylish himself, Josh Whisenhunt (@joshwhisenhunt)! Really enjoyed that night out. Saturday was possibly the most laziest day i've had since I got back to KC. I lay in bed listening to BBC Radio 5Live's coverage of the EPL and managed to catch Columbus Crew - Montreal Impact a bits of Toronto FC - San Jose Earthquakes on MLS Live. Another excellent call by Luke Wileman (@lukewileman) up in Toronto by the way, give him a follow, 1 of the best announcers in MLS.
So, to our game on Sunday, I thought FC Dallas did very well defensively but also in spurts looked very dangerous going forward. George John marked CJ Sapong superbly, I think John had 1 of the better defensive displays i've seen in a while yesterday. Ricardo Villar I find very easy on the eye when he's in the kind of form he is at the moment. I think I described his goal as 'vintage' as he hit the net and its safe to say it really was a wonderful strike. For me the timing of Sportings equalizer was key. Jake (@jakeyadrich) mentioned the word momentum on the call and I think if any team gets a goal on the stroke of half time, they go in at the half way point full of momentum. In the first half Sporting seemed to struggle to find a way through the FC Dallas back line, but in the 2nd half, with momentum behind them, they looked a lot more confident and seemed more adventurous as well. Kamara was denied a 2nd of the season thank to a fantastic save from Hartman from the penalty spot, but he got his just rewards in the end and I think Kevin Hartman may want to look at his positioning for that goal.
All in all, another busy week in MLS. Don't forget we have the Olympic qualifiers on Saturday March 31st and Monday 2nd April at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park, hopefully the USA will be competing! We're on MLS duties once again this coming weekend, looking forward to our trip to the Home Depot Center, I always feel like i'm on a movie set strutting through the streets of Los Angeles. I think Sporting KC have a good chance of snatching all 3 points at Chivas USA, but remember, they did just beat Real Salt Lake at 'fortress' Rio Tinto stadium. Also as an Aston Villa fan it always nice to see Juan Pablo Angel playing also. Could be a good contest, I wonder if our old friend Ryan Smith will make an appearance? Who knows!
Jake and I will have the call on KSMO - TV. We get underway at 7.30pm CT for the pre game show. We also have the regular slot on 610 Sports Radio on Thursday evening from 7-8pm CT, hoping to have a Chivas USA guest confirmed later today.
Tune in on Thursday and see you all on Sunday from LA.
Cheers
Cal
Monday, March 19, 2012
Home comings
Hello everybody
Hope all is well
What a first few weeks this has been in MLS for Sporting KC. 2 wins from 2, both arguably as impressive as each other. The DC United game was a great result. I've said before, I don't think many teams will go to RFK Stadium and get all 3 points this season. Jake and I spoke about it on the 610 radio show, but I was extremely impressed with Roger Espinoza and once again on Saturday he really looked in the mood.
So let me take you back a few weeks (sorry i've not done 1 of these for a while) to when we arrived at RFK stadium. After a brief but yet exciting tour of the White House, I met to boys in the TV truck outside the stadium. We had a lot to discuss with it being our first show of the year, but once again Jake's (@jakeyadrich) pre production of the show was impeccable and made things a lot easier. I think its clear that Sporting dominated the game and many of us would have been disappointed had we not have taken all 3 points, despite saying before the game we'd of been happy with 1 point. As most of you may have heard, I lost it a little when the ball hit the net, but what a moment that was! However, I was a little frustrated with myself after the call. It was a decent call, but I missed the chance to make it a GREAT call, by not inserting the appropriate information. By the time i'd realized that, it was to late, but either way, it was a fantastic moment for Sporting KC. I could certainly get used to last minute winners! Also, with all due respect, we were happy we don't have to go back to RFK again this season. DC United are in desperate need of a new stadium. I hope they get it.
On we went to week 2 of MLS 2012 and the attentions were turned to LIVESTRONG Sporting Park and the 2012 home opener. Once again, lots of pre production was needed with it being our first home broadcast, but for me, I concentrated on the radio pre production as we were told we'd have 2 shows this week. I have to say I enjoyed the reserve game on Tuesday evening at the stadium. So many fans turned out for the reserve game and to see the players signing autographs after, it was a really good event.
However, on Saturday evening, the main event arrived. The first MLS game at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park for 132 days!! Jake and I were set up in our new pre game area (on the half way line, by the tunnel) and despite a few problems, I think it worked quite nicely. The 1 thing that did make me laugh was the fact that it was so loud in the stadium thanks to the fans, there were moments when Jake and I struggled to hear our producer, Rudy. We've got a couple more ideas in terms of pre game this year, so keep your eyes pealed. The atmosphere, the occasion, the score line, just everything was perfect about the game on Saturday night. The fans once again were exceptional. I really do get a sense of pride when I see the Cauldron on a game day doing what they do, they're the most committed fans in MLS and I do feel very very lucky to be their announcer; we're very lucky to have the Cauldron. Amongst all the madness, its all about them and the fans of Sporting KC. For Jake and I, we thought the broadcast went well, although we still have to discuss several things for next week's home game vs FC Dallas. After the 3-0 win over a very poor New England Revolution side, it was lovely to go and join in the celebrations with the fans at the members club and then head on out to enjoy the remainder of St. Patrick day.
Sunday was lovely. Nice and chilled out, the boys and I got the fire pit going and we decided to go local and cook a HUGE steak. We smoked it and pasted it in BBQ sauce and I have to say, it was absolutely gorgeous!! So much so, we may even do it again this week. Can't wait for Sunday evening, see you all there.
Until next time guys....
Cheers
Cal
Hope all is well
What a first few weeks this has been in MLS for Sporting KC. 2 wins from 2, both arguably as impressive as each other. The DC United game was a great result. I've said before, I don't think many teams will go to RFK Stadium and get all 3 points this season. Jake and I spoke about it on the 610 radio show, but I was extremely impressed with Roger Espinoza and once again on Saturday he really looked in the mood.
So let me take you back a few weeks (sorry i've not done 1 of these for a while) to when we arrived at RFK stadium. After a brief but yet exciting tour of the White House, I met to boys in the TV truck outside the stadium. We had a lot to discuss with it being our first show of the year, but once again Jake's (@jakeyadrich) pre production of the show was impeccable and made things a lot easier. I think its clear that Sporting dominated the game and many of us would have been disappointed had we not have taken all 3 points, despite saying before the game we'd of been happy with 1 point. As most of you may have heard, I lost it a little when the ball hit the net, but what a moment that was! However, I was a little frustrated with myself after the call. It was a decent call, but I missed the chance to make it a GREAT call, by not inserting the appropriate information. By the time i'd realized that, it was to late, but either way, it was a fantastic moment for Sporting KC. I could certainly get used to last minute winners! Also, with all due respect, we were happy we don't have to go back to RFK again this season. DC United are in desperate need of a new stadium. I hope they get it.
On we went to week 2 of MLS 2012 and the attentions were turned to LIVESTRONG Sporting Park and the 2012 home opener. Once again, lots of pre production was needed with it being our first home broadcast, but for me, I concentrated on the radio pre production as we were told we'd have 2 shows this week. I have to say I enjoyed the reserve game on Tuesday evening at the stadium. So many fans turned out for the reserve game and to see the players signing autographs after, it was a really good event.
However, on Saturday evening, the main event arrived. The first MLS game at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park for 132 days!! Jake and I were set up in our new pre game area (on the half way line, by the tunnel) and despite a few problems, I think it worked quite nicely. The 1 thing that did make me laugh was the fact that it was so loud in the stadium thanks to the fans, there were moments when Jake and I struggled to hear our producer, Rudy. We've got a couple more ideas in terms of pre game this year, so keep your eyes pealed. The atmosphere, the occasion, the score line, just everything was perfect about the game on Saturday night. The fans once again were exceptional. I really do get a sense of pride when I see the Cauldron on a game day doing what they do, they're the most committed fans in MLS and I do feel very very lucky to be their announcer; we're very lucky to have the Cauldron. Amongst all the madness, its all about them and the fans of Sporting KC. For Jake and I, we thought the broadcast went well, although we still have to discuss several things for next week's home game vs FC Dallas. After the 3-0 win over a very poor New England Revolution side, it was lovely to go and join in the celebrations with the fans at the members club and then head on out to enjoy the remainder of St. Patrick day.
Sunday was lovely. Nice and chilled out, the boys and I got the fire pit going and we decided to go local and cook a HUGE steak. We smoked it and pasted it in BBQ sauce and I have to say, it was absolutely gorgeous!! So much so, we may even do it again this week. Can't wait for Sunday evening, see you all there.
Until next time guys....
Cheers
Cal
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Things are about to get a little more exciting
Evening all
So, my first blog post of 2012....... here it goes.
I sit here writing this in my room of the house i'll be staying in for the rest of the year. The same place I spent last year (when we weren't slogging it in a hotel half way across the country). I also sit here with lots of thoughts going round and round in my head. I remember this time last year, i'd not long got my work visa sorted out after a trip down to the Embassy in London. Kansas City was completely alien to me at that time, i'd always travelled to cover games in England, but this was something else! I remember being slightly nervous, but very exited as I was about to embark on the biggest adventure of my life thus far. I remember speak with my best friend, Carl, on my final day in England and it hitting us both. He said 'this is really happening isn't it?' in a confused manor. After a tearful goodbye to my loved ones at the airport I felt an over sensing feeling of excitement but nervs as well. I had no idea about Kansas City, I had no idea how friendly people were going to be, had no real idea of how good the TV broadcasts would be, I had no idea i'd make some of the best friends i've ever made. At the time, it was a huge risk and many questioned why I would leave everything i'd ever worked for and knew all behind. It just so happened that the risk was well worth taking and my love for this country, this city, its people and soccer in the USA has grown day by day. Last year was an amazing year and according to most, this year is going to be even better!
I remember departing KC to head home and it was funny, because I had recognizable feelings. I had to have a giggle to myself about it. I thought of all the people i'd miss, all the people I care about in KC and thought for a second 'hold up, i recognize this feeling'. Never the less it was great to head back home for the off season. I got to spend a lot of time with the people I care about back in England and have a good old catch up. It was very rewarding to be able to recharge to batteries and spend some quality time with family and friends over Christmas and New Year. Can I share a secret with you though......... if i'm honest, I could have come back a month earlier! When I saw the wonderful coverage on mlssoccer.com (which our Sporting KC TV crew produced) of the Combine and the Superdraft, I really wanted to be there. I suppose being back in England I always felt as though there was something missing, I think that thing was a mixture of Kansas City and Sporting KC, because I wasn't involved in the day to day TV stuff. I only worked once when I was back in England for ITV's FA Cup coverage. I could have done more but I didn't want to miss out on opportunities to see people who I knew I probably won't see until December this year. Either way, I had a great time back in England, I really look forward to going back, but right now, there's work to be done :)
I can not express how excited is was to come back to Kansas City and get our season underway. It meant I got to see some people I deeply care about once again, but it also meant the season wasn't to far away from starting up again.
I have to admit, pre season in England is completely different to pre season in the USA. Not saying I didn't enjoy it back home, but I really did enjoy being surrounded and speaking to so many people involved with Major League Soccer. I spoke to so many players, coaches, fans, scouts and fellow broadcasters. It certainly further backed up many people's view that MLS is one big family. The set up was very good down in Orlando, we had mixed weather but mostly glorious sunshine throughout. Our production set up was once again very very good for a live stream (once again produced by the Sporting KC TV team, @abnerha, @the_doubledown, @ctwyche and Craig who isn't on twitter!!). The boys from MLSsoccer.com were also helping out with the camera's whilst Jon Yardley (@jtyardley), Simon Borg (@simonborg), Jake Yadrich (@jakeyadrich) and I would handle play by play duties. It was great to speak with so many people and get that first hand opinion on players..... "no chance, he's still 2 weeks away from being fit", "he is a bit of a loose cannon, but a great player", "ye we took a good luck at him before they took him". I love being involved in that sort of conversation with the coaches and scouts and get it first hand from them. Not going to lie, I love soccer gossip!! Another lad who loves a bit of gossip and is always good company, Mr big time himself Arlo White. I remember going through my notes an hour or so before the 2nd evening and heard a shout of "oi, oi" (typical English greeting). I had a good chat with Arlo that night about the whole NBC broadcasts and their set up for MLS this year, all i'll say is, its going to blow you away!! Spoke several times with Arlo throughout the trip in Orlando and also had a good chat with some of the lads from Toronto FC and Vancouver Whitecaps. The voice of MLS on TSN, Luke Wileman and I get on quite well and once again, both being ex BBC boys we often have plenty to talk about, this trip was no different. Also did an interview with Pete Schaad, the voice of Vancouver Whitecaps for his radio show and in return he came on mine for a chat as well (1 big family).
For those of you worried about Sporting KC's performances/results down in Orlando, its simple, don't. Its only pre season and the players looked fit and even though they didn't win, to my knowledge the coaching staff got what they wanted from that trip. Evaluation and fitness were the keys, mission accomplished.
So I write this to you on the eve of the first week of 'First Kick 2012' and i'm chomping at the bit to get going (i recognize this feeling). Last year was incredible, anybody fancy doing it all again?
See you on Saturday from RFK Stadium ;-)
Cal
(@calwilliamsskc)
So, my first blog post of 2012....... here it goes.
I sit here writing this in my room of the house i'll be staying in for the rest of the year. The same place I spent last year (when we weren't slogging it in a hotel half way across the country). I also sit here with lots of thoughts going round and round in my head. I remember this time last year, i'd not long got my work visa sorted out after a trip down to the Embassy in London. Kansas City was completely alien to me at that time, i'd always travelled to cover games in England, but this was something else! I remember being slightly nervous, but very exited as I was about to embark on the biggest adventure of my life thus far. I remember speak with my best friend, Carl, on my final day in England and it hitting us both. He said 'this is really happening isn't it?' in a confused manor. After a tearful goodbye to my loved ones at the airport I felt an over sensing feeling of excitement but nervs as well. I had no idea about Kansas City, I had no idea how friendly people were going to be, had no real idea of how good the TV broadcasts would be, I had no idea i'd make some of the best friends i've ever made. At the time, it was a huge risk and many questioned why I would leave everything i'd ever worked for and knew all behind. It just so happened that the risk was well worth taking and my love for this country, this city, its people and soccer in the USA has grown day by day. Last year was an amazing year and according to most, this year is going to be even better!
I remember departing KC to head home and it was funny, because I had recognizable feelings. I had to have a giggle to myself about it. I thought of all the people i'd miss, all the people I care about in KC and thought for a second 'hold up, i recognize this feeling'. Never the less it was great to head back home for the off season. I got to spend a lot of time with the people I care about back in England and have a good old catch up. It was very rewarding to be able to recharge to batteries and spend some quality time with family and friends over Christmas and New Year. Can I share a secret with you though......... if i'm honest, I could have come back a month earlier! When I saw the wonderful coverage on mlssoccer.com (which our Sporting KC TV crew produced) of the Combine and the Superdraft, I really wanted to be there. I suppose being back in England I always felt as though there was something missing, I think that thing was a mixture of Kansas City and Sporting KC, because I wasn't involved in the day to day TV stuff. I only worked once when I was back in England for ITV's FA Cup coverage. I could have done more but I didn't want to miss out on opportunities to see people who I knew I probably won't see until December this year. Either way, I had a great time back in England, I really look forward to going back, but right now, there's work to be done :)
I can not express how excited is was to come back to Kansas City and get our season underway. It meant I got to see some people I deeply care about once again, but it also meant the season wasn't to far away from starting up again.
I have to admit, pre season in England is completely different to pre season in the USA. Not saying I didn't enjoy it back home, but I really did enjoy being surrounded and speaking to so many people involved with Major League Soccer. I spoke to so many players, coaches, fans, scouts and fellow broadcasters. It certainly further backed up many people's view that MLS is one big family. The set up was very good down in Orlando, we had mixed weather but mostly glorious sunshine throughout. Our production set up was once again very very good for a live stream (once again produced by the Sporting KC TV team, @abnerha, @the_doubledown, @ctwyche and Craig who isn't on twitter!!). The boys from MLSsoccer.com were also helping out with the camera's whilst Jon Yardley (@jtyardley), Simon Borg (@simonborg), Jake Yadrich (@jakeyadrich) and I would handle play by play duties. It was great to speak with so many people and get that first hand opinion on players..... "no chance, he's still 2 weeks away from being fit", "he is a bit of a loose cannon, but a great player", "ye we took a good luck at him before they took him". I love being involved in that sort of conversation with the coaches and scouts and get it first hand from them. Not going to lie, I love soccer gossip!! Another lad who loves a bit of gossip and is always good company, Mr big time himself Arlo White. I remember going through my notes an hour or so before the 2nd evening and heard a shout of "oi, oi" (typical English greeting). I had a good chat with Arlo that night about the whole NBC broadcasts and their set up for MLS this year, all i'll say is, its going to blow you away!! Spoke several times with Arlo throughout the trip in Orlando and also had a good chat with some of the lads from Toronto FC and Vancouver Whitecaps. The voice of MLS on TSN, Luke Wileman and I get on quite well and once again, both being ex BBC boys we often have plenty to talk about, this trip was no different. Also did an interview with Pete Schaad, the voice of Vancouver Whitecaps for his radio show and in return he came on mine for a chat as well (1 big family).
For those of you worried about Sporting KC's performances/results down in Orlando, its simple, don't. Its only pre season and the players looked fit and even though they didn't win, to my knowledge the coaching staff got what they wanted from that trip. Evaluation and fitness were the keys, mission accomplished.
So I write this to you on the eve of the first week of 'First Kick 2012' and i'm chomping at the bit to get going (i recognize this feeling). Last year was incredible, anybody fancy doing it all again?
See you on Saturday from RFK Stadium ;-)
Cal
(@calwilliamsskc)
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Rock and Roll Star
Afternoon all
Well, I think its about time we all stood back and took a deep breath.......................... What a season that was. The wins over New York and DC seem so far away. I hope you all enjoyed the raffle in the members club after the New York win. Thank you all so much for being good sports and letting me lead the 'I believe that we will win' chant (even though I got it wrong!!).
I must admit heading into the play offs was a strange but exciting feeling. I'd been involved in play offs/promotion battles before whilst covering the lower reaches of football back in England. But this time it obviously had a much more different feel to it.
We got to Colorado full of hope and excitement. Chris (@ctwyche), Jake (@jakeyadrich), Dan (the_doubledown) and I flew into Denver as per usual, but the rest of the boys who came to help set up the studio for 'Off the Pitch' drove the full 7/8 hours from Kansas City! We'd obviously travelled all season together but it put a smile on my face to have some of the lads come to a road game who hadn't all season. It was good to see them as they pulled up in front of the hotel. Chad (@thechad_kc) seemed fine, Justin to, Abner (@abnerha) had that big old excited smile on his face as he usually does and then there was Spencer (@spencebott), who quite frankly looked like death and seemed to squirm and slide out of the opened door like a man with no muscles, actually very similar to a snake! I think it was obvious......... altitude sickness!
We had a couple of beers and enjoyed the halloween themed downtown Denver. Game day came and after a couple of technical problems which Chad helped sort out, Jake and I were underway and on the call on 810 Sports Radio. The 2-0 win was exactly what we needed. I'm sure i'm not the only 1 who didn't expect a 2-0 win away at the current MLS champions, infact i'd have taken a draw! Either way, what a win and then to do the exact same at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park in the home leg was just fantastic! Its safe to say the celebrations went on into the night. However, I was also left feeling down after Brennan (@brennancass) and Corey left to return to Minnesota. 2 really good friends and i'm looking forward to seeing them both at some stage next year.
Amongst all this madness I signed a new 2 year contract to remain here (which was a bit of madness on its own par). Without blabbing on, i'd just once again like to say thanks to everyone at the club, all my friends and family back home, Mom and Dad for supporting me every single step of the way, my girlfriend Lauren for putting up with me and you the fans, for making me feel so welcome in my first year.
Approaching the Houston game, I think we were all slightly guilty of thinking 'we have already won this'. We'd beaten Houston comprehensively earlier in the year at LSP and I think many people thought it'd be the same. In actual fact, Houston were very well organized, kept tight and produced possibly 1 of the best defensively displays of the year to beat us 2-0 and advance on to the MLS Cup Final. I remember the sinking feeling that i'm sure many of you also felt when Carlo Costly's shot ripped the back of Jimmy's net so late in the game. We had to push forward though, we were desperate for that equalizer. In the end those gaps that were left open as we pushed forward were exploited and we fell in the Eastern Conference Final.
However, as James Starritt (@sporting_times) and I said on the final 610 Sports Radio show of the year. I think we need to simply celebrate the fact that its been such a fantastic year for Sporting Kansas City. Who would have thought we would have even been competing in the play offs at 1 stage. There is a real positive feeling and vibe amongst the front office staff. Everyone is talking about us in the city. Even now, i've just been introduced to another new employee who is so excited to be apart of this organization. Everything is so positive about this organization.
I'm heading back to England next week for the off season and already have a few things in the pipeline including a week in Spain to relax, friends birthdays, London (on more then 1 occasion), Christmas and New Year all to come. I simply can't wait to see my best friends, Mom, Dad, my Nan, family and of course Lauren. I'm coming home to you all....... and I can't wait :-)
In the meantime Kansas City, keep your eyes and ears pealed, you may be hearing me sooner then you think ;-)
I know 1 thing for sure.......... I'm incredibly excited about the future of Sporting KC and I can't wait for next year.
See you all in 2012!
Cheers
Cal
Well, I think its about time we all stood back and took a deep breath.......................... What a season that was. The wins over New York and DC seem so far away. I hope you all enjoyed the raffle in the members club after the New York win. Thank you all so much for being good sports and letting me lead the 'I believe that we will win' chant (even though I got it wrong!!).
I must admit heading into the play offs was a strange but exciting feeling. I'd been involved in play offs/promotion battles before whilst covering the lower reaches of football back in England. But this time it obviously had a much more different feel to it.
We got to Colorado full of hope and excitement. Chris (@ctwyche), Jake (@jakeyadrich), Dan (the_doubledown) and I flew into Denver as per usual, but the rest of the boys who came to help set up the studio for 'Off the Pitch' drove the full 7/8 hours from Kansas City! We'd obviously travelled all season together but it put a smile on my face to have some of the lads come to a road game who hadn't all season. It was good to see them as they pulled up in front of the hotel. Chad (@thechad_kc) seemed fine, Justin to, Abner (@abnerha) had that big old excited smile on his face as he usually does and then there was Spencer (@spencebott), who quite frankly looked like death and seemed to squirm and slide out of the opened door like a man with no muscles, actually very similar to a snake! I think it was obvious......... altitude sickness!
We had a couple of beers and enjoyed the halloween themed downtown Denver. Game day came and after a couple of technical problems which Chad helped sort out, Jake and I were underway and on the call on 810 Sports Radio. The 2-0 win was exactly what we needed. I'm sure i'm not the only 1 who didn't expect a 2-0 win away at the current MLS champions, infact i'd have taken a draw! Either way, what a win and then to do the exact same at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park in the home leg was just fantastic! Its safe to say the celebrations went on into the night. However, I was also left feeling down after Brennan (@brennancass) and Corey left to return to Minnesota. 2 really good friends and i'm looking forward to seeing them both at some stage next year.
Amongst all this madness I signed a new 2 year contract to remain here (which was a bit of madness on its own par). Without blabbing on, i'd just once again like to say thanks to everyone at the club, all my friends and family back home, Mom and Dad for supporting me every single step of the way, my girlfriend Lauren for putting up with me and you the fans, for making me feel so welcome in my first year.
Approaching the Houston game, I think we were all slightly guilty of thinking 'we have already won this'. We'd beaten Houston comprehensively earlier in the year at LSP and I think many people thought it'd be the same. In actual fact, Houston were very well organized, kept tight and produced possibly 1 of the best defensively displays of the year to beat us 2-0 and advance on to the MLS Cup Final. I remember the sinking feeling that i'm sure many of you also felt when Carlo Costly's shot ripped the back of Jimmy's net so late in the game. We had to push forward though, we were desperate for that equalizer. In the end those gaps that were left open as we pushed forward were exploited and we fell in the Eastern Conference Final.
However, as James Starritt (@sporting_times) and I said on the final 610 Sports Radio show of the year. I think we need to simply celebrate the fact that its been such a fantastic year for Sporting Kansas City. Who would have thought we would have even been competing in the play offs at 1 stage. There is a real positive feeling and vibe amongst the front office staff. Everyone is talking about us in the city. Even now, i've just been introduced to another new employee who is so excited to be apart of this organization. Everything is so positive about this organization.
I'm heading back to England next week for the off season and already have a few things in the pipeline including a week in Spain to relax, friends birthdays, London (on more then 1 occasion), Christmas and New Year all to come. I simply can't wait to see my best friends, Mom, Dad, my Nan, family and of course Lauren. I'm coming home to you all....... and I can't wait :-)
In the meantime Kansas City, keep your eyes and ears pealed, you may be hearing me sooner then you think ;-)
I know 1 thing for sure.......... I'm incredibly excited about the future of Sporting KC and I can't wait for next year.
See you all in 2012!
Cheers
Cal
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
All your dreams are made with strawberry lemonade
Hello everyone
Hope this blog finds you in good health.
So the last time we spoke, we were on the eve of the most important stage of Sporting KC's season so far. A 1-1 tie with Philadelphia Union, a huge win over Columbus Crew, both at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park were enough to convince most that we are play off bound this season. However a rather muggy 1-1 tie away at San Jose Earthquakes would once again make people realize, this is anything but over.
So let me take you back to the beginning of last week. We were all very nervous about the upcoming game against Columbus Crew, who themselves had (and still have) play off ambitions. I was very excited to call the game and found myself bouncing around the office wishing Wednesday night was hurry up and be upon us. So to take our minds of things, after a couple of beers at Brennan (@BrennanCass) and Corey's (@cGodel86) place, we all went to the Sprint center for a the pre season NHL game that was in town. I was quite excited about watching my first ever hockey game. If I was going to get into any other sport in the USA I had a feeling this would be it; mainly due to the pace of the play. As far as i'm aware it was a decent game which was won on penalties (I think thats what they're called). Dan (@the_doubledown) got well into it. He's a big Phily Flyers fan and loves his hockey. Spencer (@spencebott), Abner (@abnerha) and I spent most of the evening trying to figure out what was going on, but either way it was an experience that I enjoyed. I've not done hockey and baseball here in the USA and i'd like to get to an NFL game before I go back to England in November. Whilst we're on that subject, i'm very very excited to see my family and friends in November. Really looking forward to spending christmas and new year in England.
So, anyway, the next day came as did kick off and finally lady luck shone on Sporting KC! A looping header from Columbus defender Julius James was directed into his own net and in the end it proved to be the winning goal. A HUGE win for Sporting KC at the top of the Eastern Conference. After speaking with a few fans after the game and stopping for a photo or 2, its clear everybody is Kansas City is desperate for a championship winning team and Sporting are the closest to that at the moment.
The week passed by and we had a lot of work to do in preparation for our trip to California. I had the relatively small matter of my 22nd birthday on the Thursday and to be honest, I just wanted to watch Phily - DC United with a few beers; but the others had plans................................. The reason for the line of nothing in the sentence above it because thats what my memory of the night consists of; nothing. Its safe to say the flight to San Jose was both painful and brutal, but either way we got there in the end. Thanks to everyone who came out for my birthday, really appreciate it.
San Jose was a nice little californian town, pretty much what I expected to be honest. The stadium itself, Buck Shaw stadium, was interesting. It kind of reminded me of an old school League 2 ground in England, but either way, it got the job done. Even if it meant Dan and Spence had to run cable through the scaffolding with Brian.
So we left San Jose with a point and still without any real answers. I still think we'll qualify for the play offs but I think we need 6 points from the last 2 games against New York Red Bulls and away at DC United. Very exciting end to the season in Major League Soccer and i'm very excited to call the action for the people of Kansas City.
See you all soon!
Cheers
Cal
Hope this blog finds you in good health.
So the last time we spoke, we were on the eve of the most important stage of Sporting KC's season so far. A 1-1 tie with Philadelphia Union, a huge win over Columbus Crew, both at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park were enough to convince most that we are play off bound this season. However a rather muggy 1-1 tie away at San Jose Earthquakes would once again make people realize, this is anything but over.
So let me take you back to the beginning of last week. We were all very nervous about the upcoming game against Columbus Crew, who themselves had (and still have) play off ambitions. I was very excited to call the game and found myself bouncing around the office wishing Wednesday night was hurry up and be upon us. So to take our minds of things, after a couple of beers at Brennan (@BrennanCass) and Corey's (@cGodel86) place, we all went to the Sprint center for a the pre season NHL game that was in town. I was quite excited about watching my first ever hockey game. If I was going to get into any other sport in the USA I had a feeling this would be it; mainly due to the pace of the play. As far as i'm aware it was a decent game which was won on penalties (I think thats what they're called). Dan (@the_doubledown) got well into it. He's a big Phily Flyers fan and loves his hockey. Spencer (@spencebott), Abner (@abnerha) and I spent most of the evening trying to figure out what was going on, but either way it was an experience that I enjoyed. I've not done hockey and baseball here in the USA and i'd like to get to an NFL game before I go back to England in November. Whilst we're on that subject, i'm very very excited to see my family and friends in November. Really looking forward to spending christmas and new year in England.
So, anyway, the next day came as did kick off and finally lady luck shone on Sporting KC! A looping header from Columbus defender Julius James was directed into his own net and in the end it proved to be the winning goal. A HUGE win for Sporting KC at the top of the Eastern Conference. After speaking with a few fans after the game and stopping for a photo or 2, its clear everybody is Kansas City is desperate for a championship winning team and Sporting are the closest to that at the moment.
The week passed by and we had a lot of work to do in preparation for our trip to California. I had the relatively small matter of my 22nd birthday on the Thursday and to be honest, I just wanted to watch Phily - DC United with a few beers; but the others had plans................................. The reason for the line of nothing in the sentence above it because thats what my memory of the night consists of; nothing. Its safe to say the flight to San Jose was both painful and brutal, but either way we got there in the end. Thanks to everyone who came out for my birthday, really appreciate it.
San Jose was a nice little californian town, pretty much what I expected to be honest. The stadium itself, Buck Shaw stadium, was interesting. It kind of reminded me of an old school League 2 ground in England, but either way, it got the job done. Even if it meant Dan and Spence had to run cable through the scaffolding with Brian.
So we left San Jose with a point and still without any real answers. I still think we'll qualify for the play offs but I think we need 6 points from the last 2 games against New York Red Bulls and away at DC United. Very exciting end to the season in Major League Soccer and i'm very excited to call the action for the people of Kansas City.
See you all soon!
Cheers
Cal
Monday, September 19, 2011
Come on feel the noise
Afternoon all
Once again, sorry for the delay in doing this, its been a busy few weeks.
So, lots has happened since we last spoke. Jake (@jakeyadrich) and I did our first radio call together when we hosted LA Galaxy. I completely forgot how much different a radio call is to a TV commentary. It had obviously been a while since i'd done a radio call and after 10 minutes or so I remembered I wasn't doing TV. I learnt a lot whilst I was back in England, working in radio. Paul Walker, George Andrews and Stu Haycock are just some of the names I need to thank for that and it all came back during the call. I think people assume that its the same, but actually with radio you have to be a lot more descriptive (for obvious reasons). Its almost as if you're painting a picture and unlike TV, you need to let to audience know where the ball is. For example, if Espinoza is on the ball in the center circle and plays it out to Sinovic, I can literally just say 'Espinoza....... Sinovic' or 'Espinoza for Sporting' but with radio it'd bensomething like 'Espinoza in the center circle, over to Seth Sinovic on the left hand side, just short of the half way line'. It was Jake's first time on radio and I know he enjoyed it as well, plus, it helped that it was an entertaining game with lots of action and a last minute penalty in the 2-2 tie.
After that we obviously had a wonderful result over Houston Dynamo which I thoroughly believe sent a message out to the rest of Major League Soccer. I have to say, it was one of my favorite shows we did, everything ran smoothly and of course we got a great result.
Last week was different and after playing rock, paper, scissors with Seth Sinovic it seemed as though it was my turn for the brilliantly put together stadium feature 'Across the Endline'. So there I was, set in the hot seat with Brad Mertell (@bmertell22) and Adam Zdroik (@rotozdroik) behind the camera, my room mate of course. I've seen many of the features these boys had done with the players and how they consistently made fun of them; so I expected the worst. However, they went easy on me and i'm told the finished product will be on the video board at half time on Friday night vs Philly. Those boys up in the production room really do a fantastic job and even Abner who you'll see wandering around LSP with a camera is absolutely brilliant. There's a real positive vibe about this place at the moment, the stadium is getting great crowds, we have the highest TV ratings in the history of the franchise and with Sporting KC flying high in the east and the Royals and Cheifs not doing very well i'm told. Its possible that Sporting KC could potentially be the most successful sports team in Kansas City. I think next year is a huge year for the club. We've gained a lot of new fans due to the stadium who came on board from June 9th. Next season we'll have them for the full season and that'll be the true test.
On we go to the most recent few days, the ones that are fresh in the memory.
I was very jealous of CJ Sapong after he got a kiss from Hope Solo! Watching the USWNT train was an honor and they were very very good after training, signing autographs and doing interviews. Even though some of the journalists there held on to them for to long in my opinion, they were very good to do the interviews either way.
Salt Lake City was an interesting place. The stadium itself was fantastic. The Rio Tinto stadium is another clear piece of evidence that MLS is on the up. The facilities were great, fans gave it a good atmosphere and it was a good game; despite the loss. Nick Rimando had a superb game to keep Sporting KC at bay, but I think there are plenty of positives to take from the game and now the game against Philadelphia Union on friday night is astonishingly big. Not sure what my duties for the evening will be as of yet. We're working on a few things, so i'll update you on twitter. I'm absolutely desperate to call the game!
Speak soon
Cheers
Cal
Once again, sorry for the delay in doing this, its been a busy few weeks.
So, lots has happened since we last spoke. Jake (@jakeyadrich) and I did our first radio call together when we hosted LA Galaxy. I completely forgot how much different a radio call is to a TV commentary. It had obviously been a while since i'd done a radio call and after 10 minutes or so I remembered I wasn't doing TV. I learnt a lot whilst I was back in England, working in radio. Paul Walker, George Andrews and Stu Haycock are just some of the names I need to thank for that and it all came back during the call. I think people assume that its the same, but actually with radio you have to be a lot more descriptive (for obvious reasons). Its almost as if you're painting a picture and unlike TV, you need to let to audience know where the ball is. For example, if Espinoza is on the ball in the center circle and plays it out to Sinovic, I can literally just say 'Espinoza....... Sinovic' or 'Espinoza for Sporting' but with radio it'd bensomething like 'Espinoza in the center circle, over to Seth Sinovic on the left hand side, just short of the half way line'. It was Jake's first time on radio and I know he enjoyed it as well, plus, it helped that it was an entertaining game with lots of action and a last minute penalty in the 2-2 tie.
After that we obviously had a wonderful result over Houston Dynamo which I thoroughly believe sent a message out to the rest of Major League Soccer. I have to say, it was one of my favorite shows we did, everything ran smoothly and of course we got a great result.
Last week was different and after playing rock, paper, scissors with Seth Sinovic it seemed as though it was my turn for the brilliantly put together stadium feature 'Across the Endline'. So there I was, set in the hot seat with Brad Mertell (@bmertell22) and Adam Zdroik (@rotozdroik) behind the camera, my room mate of course. I've seen many of the features these boys had done with the players and how they consistently made fun of them; so I expected the worst. However, they went easy on me and i'm told the finished product will be on the video board at half time on Friday night vs Philly. Those boys up in the production room really do a fantastic job and even Abner who you'll see wandering around LSP with a camera is absolutely brilliant. There's a real positive vibe about this place at the moment, the stadium is getting great crowds, we have the highest TV ratings in the history of the franchise and with Sporting KC flying high in the east and the Royals and Cheifs not doing very well i'm told. Its possible that Sporting KC could potentially be the most successful sports team in Kansas City. I think next year is a huge year for the club. We've gained a lot of new fans due to the stadium who came on board from June 9th. Next season we'll have them for the full season and that'll be the true test.
On we go to the most recent few days, the ones that are fresh in the memory.
I was very jealous of CJ Sapong after he got a kiss from Hope Solo! Watching the USWNT train was an honor and they were very very good after training, signing autographs and doing interviews. Even though some of the journalists there held on to them for to long in my opinion, they were very good to do the interviews either way.
Salt Lake City was an interesting place. The stadium itself was fantastic. The Rio Tinto stadium is another clear piece of evidence that MLS is on the up. The facilities were great, fans gave it a good atmosphere and it was a good game; despite the loss. Nick Rimando had a superb game to keep Sporting KC at bay, but I think there are plenty of positives to take from the game and now the game against Philadelphia Union on friday night is astonishingly big. Not sure what my duties for the evening will be as of yet. We're working on a few things, so i'll update you on twitter. I'm absolutely desperate to call the game!
Speak soon
Cheers
Cal
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