Added a field goal to my autograph a day quest today. For the second day in a row I received three successes, one from a former football player, another from an administrator and the third from an Olympian.
The first was Bobby Humphrey, the brilliant running back from the University of Alabama who was a two-time All-American.
As an NFL rookie he rushed for more than 1,100 yards in 1989 and played in Super Bowl XXIV for the Denver Broncos. He played in the Pro Bowl in 1990 when he rushed for more than 1,200 yards.
Paul Tagliabue, the former NFL Commissioner who presided over the league from 1989-2005, also responded to my request. Football fans will remember Tagliabue for a number of reasons -- the expansion of the league, revenue sharing and no lockouts or strikes during his tenure and a strict substance abuse policy are all parts of his legacy. He made an indelible impact on the game so many Americans enjoy today.
Time will tell how Roger Goodell will be viewed as Tagliabue's successor.
The third autograph obtained today is from Brandi Chastain. She probably has the most memorable Sports Illustrated cover (not to mention Time and Newsweek) of the last few decades, appearing sans shirt and in her sports bra after shedding the shirt in the 1999 Women's World
Cup following her winning goal.
Chastain has also won two Olympic Gold medals to date for her soccer play, first at the 1996 Games in Atlanta and then at the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece. In addition to signing her name, she also added several inscriptions, which can be seen here.
Great successes today!
Day of the Year: 8
Number of Autographs This Year: 7
Rory Sabbatini has achieved success at every level in which he has played. Whether it was growing up in South Africa, playing collegiately at the University of Arizona or on the PGA Tour, Sabbatini always has enjoyed hoisting trophies.
