He picked a very, very good time to be hot -- right now. He was just glad to make it because all he was trying to do was qualify with the team.

He's out there to listen, out there to throw the ball and do what he needs to do. When he speaks up it's a surprise.

I suddenly realized I knew next to nothing about them.

I hooked up with the junior team and that is where the Brahmas saw me. I was more interested in playing pro than going to college, so that is what led me to Fort Worth.

I know that the Bucks have established a winning tradition. I wanted to come here because the team is in the playoffs every year and has a chance to win.

Every now and then there will be little glimmers of revelation about an old family legend that gets confirmed, or you find out the truth.

There's definitely a lot of anticipation for this year. There's a lot of expectations and excitement around the team. We're just ready to get going.

A lot of people have a lot of ideas. But a lot of people never do anything. That's frustrating. The hardest part is just getting into it and stepping up and doing it.

That's huge, just having him in the lineup and that fear factor in the other dugout. His presence is big for us. It will be a confidence booster to have him back in the lineup.

These days you'll find a surf scene just about anyplace there are waves. Even on beaches once considered off the beaten path, you'll often find surf shops offering lessons and board rentals.