Exactly one year ago today, I uploaded this entry, thereby launching the site you’re now reading. At the time, I had two primary concerns: (1) Would anyone notice? (2) What the hell would I write about the next day, and the day after that, and the day after that? (Confession: I intentionally launched the site on a Wednesday, so I’d only have to come up with three entries for that first week.)
A year later, the site has been a much bigger success than I ever could have imagined. Except for that little server hiccup back in February, we’ve had fresh content every single non-holiday weekday, and on a few weekends to boot. I’m proud of that, and you should be too, because so much of the material comes from, or is inspired by, you. I’ve also had invaluable assistance from webmaster John Ekdahl (who, aside from all the technical help he’s provided, is the one who came up with the idea for this site in the first place), design director Scott M.X. Turner, and intern Vince Grzegorek. In addition to all their behind-the-scenes help, John and Vince have also given me occasional days off by writing blog entries, as has Todd Krevanchi. I’m super-grateful to all of them.
So what’s on tap for Year Two? In my fantasy world, I’d like the site to become less of a blog and more of a magazine, with separate sections devoted to various sports and uniform elements, additional writers (I would love to have a regular column written by someone at Nike or Reebok — a “voice from the corporate side,” as it were, to counter my relentlessly anti-corporate stance), a message board, and so on. That isn’t going to happen without a major sugar daddy, something I’ve so far been unable to attract. A more realistic fantasy, or so I’d like to think, is for Uni Watch to become self-supporting, meaning that I’d be able to focus on it exclusively, without devoting time to non-uni-related writing.
And that leads me to a big announcement: We’re are about to start offering (read: selling) multiple levels of Uni Watch memberships, the most immediate benefit of which will be a super-cool plastic-laminated membership card, designed by our own Scott M.X. Turner. The front will look like this, and the back will be styled like the back of a jersey — you’ll be able to pick a uniform number and your last name will appear in your choice of typography: vertically arched, radially arched, straight, or, for you old-schoolers, no name at all. I’ll add an “Active Roster” page to the site, listing all current members by uniform number and membership level. (Sorry, no duplicate membership uni numbers — if someone else already has the number you want, you’ll have to choose another number, just like on a real team. Update: There’s already been such a scramble by people trying to call dibs on certain numbers that I’ve decided to make the numbers non-exclusive, so you can have whatever number you want, even if someone else already has it.)
So what does membership cost, and what do you get in return? Here’s the breakdown of the various one-year membership levels and their respective benefits:
Level One: Wool Flannel ($25): Benefits are as follows:
- Official Uni Watch Membership Card
- Uni Watch fridge magnet
- Three bonus entries in all Uni Watch raffles
- Your name featured on the Uni Watch “Active Roster” membership listing
Level Two: Vertically Arched ($50): All of the benefits listed above, plus a special Uni Watch T-shirt, available only to members. This design is still in development and should be ready in about a week, but trust me — it’s gonna look great.
Level Three: Chain-Stitched ($100): All the benefits listed above, plus a CD containing the digital art files for three rare, hard-to-find uniform style guides: NFL 1972, XFL 2001, and MLB’s 1999 “Turn Ahead the Clock” series.
Level Four: Leather Helmet ($250): All the benefits listed above, plus Uni Watch design director Scott M.X. Turner will create a logo for your team, fantasy league, company, civic association, church group, or just for you.
Level Five: Satin Piping ($500): All the benefits listed above, plus I will conduct a “Uni Watch Profiles” interview with you, a transcript of which will be posted on the blog. During the interview we will discuss your favorite uniforms, your uni-related pet peeves, your cap collection, or anything else uni-related that you want to talk about. You will be uni-king for a day!
Level Six: Striped Stirrups ($1000): All of the benefits listed above, plus I will fly to your town (or to the nearest city with an airport) and host a Uni Watch party at the local venue of your choosing. Probably your best chance at attending a Uni Watch party if you live in, say, Wichita. Continental U.S. only. If you live within a 100-mile radius of New York City, I will take you and a guest out to dinner either before or after the party. If you and some friends pool your resources to come up with the fee, you will all receive membership cards.
I may come up with other benefits, and I’m also hoping to get some e-merchants to offer some discounts to Uni Watch members, but that’s all still in the “We’re working on it” phase.
So you’re probably thinking, “Is this just a money-making scheme, or a glorified donation program?” To a certain extent, yes. But I’ll be frank with you: I need some more money from this project. The site now eats up a significant amount of my time (easily 25 hours a week, often a lot more), and it’s starting to cut into the time I’d ordinarily devote to “real” work. Obviously, nobody’s forcing me to do this, and I can stop anytime I want. But I don’t want to stop — I love working on the site. I just need to be able to justify the increasing bite it’s taking from my schedule.
That said, I also think the membership program is a fun little sub-project. The benefits ain’t bad, and I’m pretty stoked about the membership card myself. All in all, I think membership at any level is a fair deal.
That said, I’m fully aware that some of you are students, and/or have families to support, loans to pay off, ad bankruptum. I also realize that many of you have already donated and/or bought raffle tickets in the past. Believe me, I know. I’m not trying to put the squeeze on anyone, I’m not trying to lay a guilt trip on you, and I can assure you that access to the site will always be free. I’m just asking for a little help, from those of you who are able to give it, so I can keep doing this thing we all enjoy — a thing that is rapidly approaching the status of a full-time job.
I won’t even accept any membership purchases until the Level Two T-shirt design is finalized. While we’re waiting, I’ll get the ball rolling by raffling off a membership — send a note to uniraffle at earthlink dot net (one per person, please) and I’ll pick a winner when the T-shirt design is ready.
Okay, enough of that. Thanks for a great first year, people — looking forward to more.
Uni Watch News Ticker: Nice note from Greg Evans, who writes: “Anderson, South Carolina, has a new Class A independent team called the Joes, after Shoeless Joe Jackson. Shoeless Joe was an upstate South Carolina native, and supposedly got his nickname while playing semipro ball in Anderson. The team logo is pretty cool, especially compared with the cartoonish logos of most other minor league teams. Also, the inclusion of a pair of spikes on the cap is a nice touch.” … Tuesday’s post mentioned the troubles that the Red Bulls have had fitting Dave van den Bergh’s name on his jersey, but I didn’t have a photo. Now, thanks to Kenn Tomasch, I do. … The Broncos’ memorial helmet decal for Darrent Williams and Damien Nash will look like this (with thanks to Andrew Mason). … Jeff Scott (who has a pretty sharp Cardinals blog) notes that the Majestic logo has been missing from David Eckstein’s road jersey for several days now. … In a related logo-anti-creep item, Kevin Gee reports that the MLB logo has been missing from the back of Carlos Lee’s batting helmet, and “it just doesn’t look right.” … “Hey Paul, a while back you linked to one of my pictures of the Oregon Marching Band, in our numbered, helmet-attired glory,” writes Matt Takimoto. “The helmets have since been retired — apparently we looked like Nazis to some of the older, donor set here in Eugene — and we are now selling them to raise money for the band.” Takimoto said he’d even try to arrange a raffle for us — stay tuned. … A confused and outraged Brandon Hall wonders why Lindy Ruff was wearing a Senators-colored necktie the other day. … Lots of great old West Virginia high school football uniforms on display in this gallery (kudos to Brad DiCola). … You know how a book’s index will have listings formatted like “Stirrups, Uni Watch’s obsession with” and “Purple, utter loathsomeness of”? Check out the jersey insignia for D3 school St. Thomas University (great find by Mike Miller). … According to a small note contained in this article Ted Lilly and Lou Piniella “enjoyed a novel bonding moment recently when Lilly informed Piniella that his fly was unzipped during a conference at the mound” (with thanks to sharp-eyed David Chisholm). … So this horse and this Mexican wrestler walk into a bar… (as spotted by Jeremy Brahm). … Bill Pinsak notes that Ben Roethlisberger was wearing Nike tri-bolt shorts the other day, instead of standard-issue NFL Equipment shorts made by Reebok. … Photos of Miami’s new football jerseys (first discussed here) are starting to circulate — look here, here, and here.
Happy Birthday, Uni Watch! You share one with Sugar Ray Leonard. Here’s to another great year…
Heres to many more.
Thanks Paul.
This is an excellent site. Glad to hear you’ve had so much success with it.
Oh man, I forgot to buy a gift. =/
I’m guessing the BP hats aren’t exactly manditory for pre-game warmup. I was at the Sox game last night (well, before it was rained out), and noticed most of the team with the red BP hats, and a few others wearing 5950s. Hmm.
Many happy returns.
If possible, please get T-shirts at least up to XXL. Some of us out here are built like offensive linemen. Another idea for a member perk (don’t know if it’s practical or not): Uniwatch jerseys – baseball, football, hockey, whatever – for sale to members only.
The St. Olaf jerseys in the St. Thomas picture are outstanding.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY !!!!!!!!!!!!
This is a fantastic site, sadly I dont post that often….but I do read about 5 times a day.
Good luck in year number 2 and beyond
billy
Happy birthday Paul! I go back to the Village Voice days with you & it’s great to see this thing grow.
Thanks for all the work you do Paul! I cannot stop talking about your page to everyone I know!
Happy Birthday Uniwatch!
Congratulations and thanks, Paul, for many more years of material to keep my straying mind away from useful productivity.
:)
You mean the blog’s been here for only a year? Seems like it’s been here forever. Dayum.
Happy birthday!
Oh, is it intentional that the birthdate has a 7 in it (today being May 17th)?
Well, a birthday is a great reason to stop lurking. Ive enjoyed the site for quite a while now, and love reading/looking at all of the great and horrible uni’s. Thanks Paul and everyone.
[quote comment=”87464″]Oh, is it intentional that the birthdate has a 7 in it (today being May 17th)?[/quote]
No. But it IS intentional that I programmed the software to upload today’s entry at 5:17am (i.e., 5:17 on 5/17). I was going to upload it at the same time as last year’s May 17th entry, so it would be exactly one year, but it turns out that the first entry last year went up at 10:05am, and I know you people can’t wait that long for your daily dose, so…..
I’ve read your entries here and on ESPN enthusiastically for quite a while. I waste 10 minutes at work every day checking out the new entry.
I’ll definitely sign up for membership once that starts. Sadly I fall into the Wichita-esque meet-up status!
The lettering on the Oles jersey is outstanding.
Congrats, Paul. Keep up the great work (“real” or otherwise).
(Confession: I intentionally launched the site on a Wednesday, so I’d only have to come up with three entries for that first week.)
Hilarious.
[quote comment=”87470″]I’ve read your entries here and on ESPN enthusiastically for quite a while. I waste SPEND 10 minutes at work every day checking out the new entry.
I’ll definitely sign up for membership once that starts. Sadly I fall into the Wichita-esque meet-up status![/quote]
fixed.
You could set up multiple “rosters” of numbers in one of a few ways:
1. by membership level, though there are reasons not to do that (not least of which, let’s say I start at level three but come into more cash a few months later and upgrade to level six, only to find my number already taken in the skybox);
2. by favorite sport so you’d have a football roster, a baseball roster, a hockey roster, etc.; or
3. by combining color (could be on either background or foreground of card) and number so you’d have a green roster, a blue roster, etc.
Just a thought.
BTW, thanks for early post today. It’s great to get the chance to read Uniwatch before leaving for work.
Happy Birthday, congratulations and thanks.
Happy Birthday, UniWatch! I am surprised to hear that the blog has been around for one year. I thought I had missed more of the life of the blog. Good news for me. UniWatch Membership sounds like fun.
Thanks for all the work that you do on this site. I think it is hard for those of us who are not writers to quantify the amount of time and energy that it takes to come up with something original and interesting on a daily basis. And being immediately responsible for response to comments and email adds yet another layer. So, consider yourself and your work appreciated.
Happy Birthday Uni Watch!
Paul,
I echo the sentiment of the posters above, thanks for your great work. The blog is the perfect compliment to my morning coffee to get the work day started.
Cheers!
Congratulations on year 1!
Pats on the back to PL, Ek, Vince the Intern, and M.X for their work to provide daily content, IT support, and visual design.
And high fives to everyone who reads this blog, who has pestered PL with an email and a picture about “this” or “that”, and those who contribute content for the betterment of the blog whether in the ticker or in the comments (i guess im guilty of all!).
link
Happy Birthday!!
Happy Anniversary! This is also Cool Papa Bell’s 104th birthday. A fitting match for a cool site. Please remember that there are also petite people reading this blog, so how about member’s T-shirts in youth XL, or women’s cut?
Happy Birthday Uni Watch!
I have a suggestion for potential Uni-Watch members. Perhaps each member of the site can choose their desired color scheme of the website. Maybe have 3 or 4 pre-determined color scheme’s or let them pick their own combination (but no purple, haha). I’m a web developer so I could probably make that happen if you wanted.
The two notable coaches in the St. Thomas and St. Olaf picture should be mentioned.
Shaking hands near home plate are legendary St. Thomas coach Dennis Denning and the soon-to-be legendary St. Olaf coach Matt McDonald.
Great coaches, great leaders, great people.
Happy Birthday!
Sign me up for a $50 membership (pending t-shirt design, number availability etc.)
This was a great idea, I can’t believe it’s only been a year.
Next up a syndicated radio show that turns into a proprietary magazine, a segment on HBO’s Inside Sports, a university class (The history of sports uniforms and it’s impact on popular culture 101) which turns into a sports consultation firm specializing in Professional sports uniforms.
You will be the Scott Boras/Bryant Gumbal/Dr. Robert Langdon of the sports uniform world!
This is a great site and part of my daily ritual. Thanks for the highly informative and entertaining content.
I worked at the print shop that did the printing for St. Thomas. It was quite interesting when they mad the change from “College of” to “University of”. We had to print tons of various letterhead, business cards, forms… We had to be on the alert in all of the jobs for them to ferret out any old logos or marks.
Those Oregon band helmets are quite silly. Who was the idiot who thought it was a good idea to put them in helmets in the first place? It seems like that place trys to be quirky for just for the sake of being quirky.
Would numbers go back into the pool after the year subscription expires? (assuming of course you do not renew).
Perhaps a high level membership could earn you a “retired” number, that’s yours for the life of the site…and beyond.
that beer can in the headline picture reminds me of a tecate/lone star combination…
It’s been semi-officially confirmed that the Baltimore Orioles will be returning “BALTIMORE” to the road jerseys next season!
It won’t win any more games, but it’s a step in the right direction.
Now if they’d return the link to the hat and link, the trifecta would be complete. (The 1966 uniform is my favorite, personally)
link
Drat. Here’s the link for those who are unfamiliar.
[quote comment=”87503″]It’s been semi-officially confirmed that the Baltimore Orioles will be returning “BALTIMORE” to the road jerseys next season!
It won’t win any more games, but it’s a step in the right direction.
Now if they’d return the link to the hat and link, the trifecta would be complete. (The 1966 uniform is my favorite, personally)
link[/quote]
WHOA!
When you say “semi-officially”, can you quote a source?
[quote comment=”87501″]Would numbers go back into the pool after the year subscription expires? (assuming of course you do not renew).[/quote]
Yes.
[quote comment=”87501″]Perhaps a high level membership could earn you a “retired” number, that’s yours for the life of the site…and beyond.[/quote]
Not a bad idea — I like!
[quote comment=”87506″][quote comment=”87503″]It’s been semi-officially confirmed that the Baltimore Orioles will be returning “BALTIMORE” to the road jerseys next season!
It won’t win any more games, but it’s a step in the right direction.
Now if they’d return the link to the hat and link, the trifecta would be complete. (The 1966 uniform is my favorite, personally)
link[/quote]
WHOA!
When you say “semi-officially”, can you quote a source?[/quote]
Whoops, got too exiced and I guess didn’t read the whole thing…sorry, nevermind.
Happy Birthday, Uni Watch!
Paul, your Page 2 stories are the only thing I look at ESPN.com for, and after finding this blog, I don’t know what my mornings would be like if I didn’t get my daily dose of Uni info! As a former college football equipment manager, and a huge Houston Astros fan, I love the history and designs of sports equipment and uniforms so this is my happy place. My wife gets tired of me talking about the stuff from here…and rolls her eyes at the fact that you are a Mets fan (she is born and raised Long Island Yankee fan).
So, here’s to a kick ass 1st year, and to many more to come!
Oops…Link to the striped stirrups and 1966 Orioles uniform was a bust.
But link works!
does the cross-handed grip in the Joe’s logo bother anyone else?
Oh, and as a native of Miami, I can say that the pictures of the “new” ‘Canes jerseys aren’t a big change in the grand scheme. The overall design elements haven’t changed in a while, and they retain what has become an easily identifiable look for UM.
[quote comment=”87442″]If possible, please get T-shirts at least up to XXL. Some of us out here are built like offensive linemen.[/quote]
And, Paul, some of us (me) are built like out-of-shape offensive lineman. :P 3XL gonna be a T-shirt option, too?
I am proud to say that this Uni Watch community is the first such experience in my life where I feel as though I am actually part of a meaningful, thoughful, and productive Internet community. Kudos to everyone that has made this site what it is and everyone working to make it what it will one day be. (That is, I guess, hats off to all of us…kinda like Time’s Person of the Year last year.)
[quote comment=”87513″]does the cross-handed grip in the Joe’s logo bother anyone else?
[/quote]
Yup–that’s just lack of attention to detail.
Happy anniversary, Paul! As you know, I’ve been a UW fan since at least the Slate days (and I went back and read all the Voice columns once I found this), and this is a regular destination for me.
Sign me up for a membership when it’s time, likely the $50 level. I call dibs on #30!
Thank you Paul. And everybody behind the scenes. This blog is such a delight to visit for me everyday. To have an entire site devoted to something you’ve loved, something that the ‘main-stream’ sports outlets always ignored (instead to focus on player profiles or whatever the hell they like to do), is just fantastic.
Thank you again, and everybody that helps behind the scenes. I plan on buying a membership for sure. (really really hope my number will be available when the time comes!)
Idea – adding on to what somebody said about retiring numbers – when a number does get retired, have a “throw back” Uni Watch logo/jersey to go with it, because we always see the classic jerseys get brought out whenever an older athlete’s number get retired. I’ll probably think of more things during the day to do instead of working.
[quote comment=”87480″]You could set up multiple “rosters” of numbers in one of a few ways:
1. by membership level, though there are reasons not to do that (not least of which, let’s say I start at level three but come into more cash a few months later and upgrade to level six, only to find my number already taken in the skybox);
2. by favorite sport so you’d have a football roster, a baseball roster, a hockey roster, etc.; or
3. by combining color (could be on either background or foreground of card) and number so you’d have a green roster, a blue roster, etc.
Just a thought.
BTW, thanks for early post today. It’s great to get the chance to read Uniwatch before leaving for work.[/quote]
Make a soccer roster with official Premiership numbers, and I’ll totally get it. Make them miniature and rendered in Lextra, and I’ll go striped-stirrups (okay, that’s a lie, but you get the point).
[quote comment=”87503″]It’s been semi-officially confirmed that the Baltimore Orioles will be returning “BALTIMORE” to the road jerseys next season!
It won’t win any more games, but it’s a step in the right direction.
Now if they’d return the link to the hat and link, the trifecta would be complete. (The 1966 uniform is my favorite, personally)
link[/quote]
Not to press my luck i’d be happy with any stirrups right now.
[quote comment=”87513″]does the cross-handed grip in the Joe’s logo bother anyone else?
[/quote]
joe jackson was a left handed batter… although i can remember reading somewhere that in the early to mid part of the century, a cross handed grip was sometimes used. if im not mistaken, henry aaron learned to hit cross handed.
I was watching 61, the Movie about Maris’s 61 homer season, the other day and the Orioles were in the movie quite a bit. I noticed almost immediately how great those stirrups are. The Baltimore on the jersey is also pretty cool.
Minus the cross handedness, I love everything about the Joe’s logo and hat. Great idea for a team mascot and unis.
Congrats on the successful year
I hope that t-shirt is like the membership card…you know, with the name and number on the back as well!!
Also anyone notice the logo creep on the cover of link??
[quote comment=”87515″][quote comment=”87513″]does the cross-handed grip in the Joe’s logo bother anyone else?
[/quote]
Yup–that’s just lack of attention to detail.[/quote]
Actually it’s correct. Joe Jackson batted lefty so his hands are in the proper position.
After looking through my dresser drawers, it turns out I was a Uni-geek as a small child. For a Christmas present back in… gosh… it would be between 1987 and 1989, I received a child-size Cornwall Royals hockey jersey (local team), who at the time played in the Ontario Hockey League and spawned such NHL greats as Billy Smith, Dale Hawerchuk, Doug Gilmour and coach Marc Crawford. Bob Kilger, who coached the team to the Memorial Cup Championship in 1981 is currently the Mayor of the city. Sadly the team left town in 1992 and are now known as the Sarnia Sting.
Well… it turns out I still have this jersey. It doesn’t fit any more since I’m now 23 and have grown a bit since those days, but I can gladly take some pictures if you’re interested.
link
What if the back of the card could be styled like your favorite uniform?
Congrats to Paul and many thanks to John, Scott, Vince and Todd. Happy Birthday Uni-Watch!
[quote comment=”87515″][quote comment=”87513″]does the cross-handed grip in the Joe’s logo bother anyone else?
[/quote]
Yup–that’s just lack of attention to detail.[/quote]
I think he’s already swung, he’s left handed.
Congrats to Paul and many thanks to John, Scott, Vince and Todd. Happy Birthday Uni-Watch!
Sign me up! Dibs on #9 ;)
An link today about women’s hoops in Russia on ESPN.com – Uni Watch reader favorite Sue Bird (and Diana Taurasi) are featured.
I actually like the Russian version uniform better than the new WNBA ones. Though, that’s not really saying a lot.
[quote comment=”87531″][quote comment=”87515″][quote comment=”87513″]does the cross-handed grip in the Joe’s logo bother anyone else?
[/quote]
Yup–that’s just lack of attention to detail.[/quote]
I think he’s already swung, he’s left handed.[/quote]
If he’s left handed, then yes, the hands are correct, but in that case he’s facing the wrong way. There’s just something not quite right about it to me…
trying link again.
Congratulations to the entire Uni Watch staff. On a side note, has anyone else noticed on DirecTV’s commercial with Charlie Sheen reprising his role as Ricky Vaughn, he wears two different styles of Indians’ uniforms? The uniform worn by Sheen in the new footage from the commercial doesn’t match the uniform from the old footage in Major League. I don’t have any pictures to prove it, maybe someone could help me out.
Thank you to Paul and everyone who put in hours of work to feed our obsessions for uniforms. I try to educate others into viewing this website, but most of them don’t “get it” like we all do here. Uni Watch readers are the best people in the land.
P.S. Those new ‘Canes jerseys…woof
Happy Birthday Uni Watch!! Hope there is many more to come!
Longtime reader, first time commenter…love the idea for memberships and consider me signed up when it’s available.
Thanks for all the hard work Paul and congrats again!
[quote comment=”87539″]trying link again.[/quote]
dpnation, my inbox loaded up when that article was posted yesterday!!!
as the (self proclaimed) biggest sue bird fan, i was all over it… thank god she’s back. i was jonesing all winter!!!
Found link in an aritcle about the Syracuse Chiefs of the IL:
9. Tell the players to wear the uniforms correctly. If you’re going to make the stadium more pleasing to the eye, where better to begin than with the athletes, who are so fashion-challenged that they’ve chosen to play their games while wearing pajama bottoms rather than baseball pants? Is this the International League or a sleepover…and if it’s the latter, fine. Go ahead and place a pillow on each seat.
[quote comment=”87543″]Congratulations to the entire Uni Watch staff. On a side note, has anyone else noticed on DirecTV’s commercial with Charlie Sheen reprising his role as Ricky Vaughn, he wears two different styles of Indians’ uniforms? The uniform worn by Sheen in the new footage from the commercial doesn’t match the uniform from the old footage in Major League. I don’t have any pictures to prove it, maybe someone could help me out.[/quote]
I know it’s been mentioned before… I just can’t find it in the search…
Also congrats Uni Watch…. I love the site and check it out numerous times a day… I’ll be signing up for a membership too hopefully…
Hooray for Uni Watch! I like the idea of different sections for different sports. Sorry, I can stand only so much baseball. I know its in season and I have a few months of mainly baseball related entries, but still. Also, the membership idea is a good one, I just feel bad that I wouldn’t be able to contribute at this point in time(read: I’m in school and can’t afford anything).
I think I may be coming down with a uni-related illness because the Sabres jerseys are kind of growing on me. Some one help!
Can we have the shirt with our number on it too?
I’d like the world to know what number I am. :o)
Happy Birthday, UniWatch!
I’m a St. Olaf student, so I love that you used that picture. I also love those Olaf jerseys. Pretty nice.
Over the weekend, I went to a couple Twins games against the Tigers and sat behind the Tigers dugout. I didn’t have a good enough camera with me, but I noticed that the backup catcher for Detroit, Mike Rabelo, has a hockey-style catcher’s helmet that’s orange with black tiger-like stripes on it. I couldn’t find a picture, but I thought it was interesting.
[quote comment=”87538″][quote comment=”87531″][quote comment=”87515″][quote comment=”87513″]does the cross-handed grip in the Joe’s logo bother anyone else?
[/quote]
Yup–that’s just lack of attention to detail.[/quote]
I think he’s already swung, he’s left handed.[/quote]
If he’s left handed, then yes, the hands are correct, but in that case he’s facing the wrong way. There’s just something not quite right about it to me…[/quote]
It looks like the logo was copied from the middle photo of Jackson on link. It looks like the follow-through from a swing (or at least posing after a swing).
Happy Birthday!!
I’ve looked on for several months, but rarely post. Because of you, my two Little Leaguers are Uni-Watchers in-the-making. This is where they got their first peeks at the Pirates red get-up and this is were they learned to spot and use the term “logo creep.” That by itself is priceless. Hopefully, this site will be here as they grow.
I think this photo shows that Shoeless Joe did not bat cross-handed:
link
I just want to add my congratulations to Paul and the Uni Watch team, and my thanks to the entire community.
How about structuring the different levels of membership the way baseball is structured with Single A through the Majors? Then each level could have its own numbers and for those of us incapable of initially making it to the big time but later able to, we would have to suffer the indignity of choosing a new number if ours was already spoken for.
Longtime reader, infrequent commenter.
Like everyone else, I would like to say Thanks! Paul.
This site is an important part of each and every work day, and I, like others cannot watch sporting events now without noticing something in regards to the uniforms and equipment.
Hope you accept Canadian dollars, as I will definately be signing up for a membership!!
Thanks again and heres to many years to come.
Happy Birthday, Uni Watch! You’ve very quickly become indispensable. Thanks, Paul, for all the time and effort — it’s appreciated.
I have a feeling that the uniform numbers are going to well exceed 100 people. You might need to create regional rosters or something, like all-star teams.
One other question – if we’re cash-poor at the moment, can we start out with a $25 membership and upgrade later?
Congratulations on one year.
This sight is a real treat.
Thanks.
Happy Birthday and thanks Paul!
Looking forward to becoming a member.
Happy Birthday to what I consider the most enjoyable blog, yeah I don’t care much for that word either, published on the vast expanse of the internet.
Now I just have to figure out what number I want for my membership, 1, 4, 10, 14, 35, 66 and 87 are my early favorites.
[quote comment=”87525″]Congrats on the successful year
I hope that t-shirt is like the membership card…you know, with the name and number on the back as well!!
Also anyone notice the logo creep on the cover of link??[/quote]
If I can figure out how to find it, I can comment…
and yes, congrats on the birthday, Uni Watch Blog!
As far as the Miami uniforms are concerned, I think the white one is my least favorite, but the Green and Orange ones are growing on me.
What strikes me about all of today’s comments is the lack of negativity about the new membership levels. I think we all recognize the value of this site, so kicking in a few bucks is certainly worth it. Happy b-day to the site, and many thanks to Paul and the fellas for all their hard work.
Here is the Shoeless Joe Virtual Hall of Fame
link It is pretty neat.
[quote comment=”87538″][quote comment=”87531″][quote comment=”87515″][quote comment=”87513″]does the cross-handed grip in the Joe’s logo bother anyone else?
[/quote]
Yup–that’s just lack of attention to detail.[/quote]
I think he’s already swung, he’s left handed.[/quote]
If he’s left handed, then yes, the hands are correct, but in that case he’s facing the wrong way. There’s just something not quite right about it to me…[/quote]
He’s lefthanded and has just finished his swing, so he’s facing where the ball is going. It was probably the most common pose in posed still photos in Jackson’s era, you see it all the time. I’m sure the logo was taken from a photo. Check this out, for example:
link
Or this:
link
[quote comment=”87576″][quote comment=”87538″][quote comment=”87531″][quote comment=”87515″][quote comment=”87513″]does the cross-handed grip in the Joe’s logo bother anyone else?
[/quote]
Yup–that’s just lack of attention to detail.[/quote]
I think he’s already swung, he’s left handed.[/quote]
If he’s left handed, then yes, the hands are correct, but in that case he’s facing the wrong way. There’s just something not quite right about it to me…[/quote]
He’s lefthanded and has just finished his swing, so he’s facing where the ball is going. It was probably the most common pose in posed still photos in Jackson’s era, you see it all the time. I’m sure the logo was taken from a photo. Check this out, for example:
link
Or this:
link
Or even batter, this, which is almost exactly like the logo:
link
[quote comment=”87552″]Found link in an aritcle about the Syracuse Chiefs of the IL:
9. Tell the players to wear the uniforms correctly. If you’re going to make the stadium more pleasing to the eye, where better to begin than with the athletes, who are so fashion-challenged that they’ve chosen to play their games while wearing pajama bottoms rather than baseball pants? Is this the International League or a sleepover…and if it’s the latter, fine. Go ahead and place a pillow on each seat.[/quote]
Poliquin is right on all of the points he made. It’s unfathomable to me how the Chiefs made such an ugly stadium when all they had to do was drive 70 miles down the Thruway to Rochester to see how it’s supposed to be done. One of the many reasons I prefer my new hometown of Rochester to my old hometown of Syracuse.
And the membership idea is a great idea. I’d tape my membership card to the window in my office that all the students can see while they’re getting their mail. Maybe I could convert a few that way.
Congrats, Paul.
I will now commence donating the hell out of my link and link in my quest for “Striped Stirrups” status.
[quote comment=”87555″]Can we have the shirt with our number on it too?[/quote]
I don’t think that’s gonna be possible — customized cards are one thing, but customized shirts would get too expensive.
[quote comment=”87567″]if we’re cash-poor at the moment, can we start out with a $25 membership and upgrade later?[/quote]
Of course.
By the way, does it seem wrong to anyone else that a pro baseball team is named after a guy who DUMPED A FREAKING WORLD SERIES??? I blame Field of Dreams. I also blame FOD for casting an Italian guy from Newark NJ as Jackson, and letting him bat righthanded in the movie.
[quote comment=”87525″]Congrats on the successful year
I hope that t-shirt is like the membership card…you know, with the name and number on the back as well!!
Also anyone notice the logo creep on the cover of link??[/quote]
At least they took the time to make sure the tattoo was represented correctly on what looks like a computer generated image of Zabransky.
Paul,
Happy B-Day!!! This Site Rocks!!! No, you ROCK!!!
Sign me up for ole number 8.
Paul,
I imagine some of the more popular numbers will be highly sought after in the membership registration process. At very least there would be some conflict. I would think that the most fair way to assign these numbers would be a stratified first come first serve. That would mean in the official submission or application or whatever for a number, top 3 or top 5 choices of number would be needed. I like the opprotunity to have multiple color scheme choices as was once mentioned, and perhaps different teams.
[quote comment=”87573″]What strikes me about all of today’s comments is the lack of negativity about the new membership levels.[/quote]
I’m sure noticing that too! I was frankly a little nervous about the membership thing (and still am), because I don’t want it to look like I’m just trying to milk you all for $$$. I thought long and hard about the merits of this but was still apprehensive about how it might be received. It’s a relief to see that the reaction appears to be positive, at least so far. Thank you SO MUCH, everyone, for the kind words of support. Between last weekend’s parties and today’s anniversary well-wishing, I’m feeling pretty lucky and special these days.
Incidentally, May 26th marks the 8th anniversary of the very first Uni Watch column being published in The Village Voice. Another nice milestone.
First off, congrats to Paul and everyone on the UW staff. It’s been great interacting with so many other people that get it.
Second, in reading the article about WNBA players in Russia, they mentioned two Moscow teams, Spartak and Dynamo. There are also two pro hockey teams in Moscow named Spartak and Dynamo. Does anyone know if there’s lots of this name sharing over there, and if there’s a connection between all the teams that share a name?
[quote comment=”87589″][quote comment=”87573″]What strikes me about all of today’s comments is the lack of negativity about the new membership levels.[/quote]
I’m sure noticing that too! I was frankly a little nervous about the membership thing (and still am), because I don’t want it to look like I’m just trying to milk you all for $$$. I thought long and hard about the merits of this but was still apprehensive about how it might be received. It’s a relief to see that the reaction appears to be positive, at least so far. Thank you SO MUCH, everyone, for the kind words of support. Between last weekend’s parties and today’s anniversary well-wishing, I’m feeling pretty lucky and special these days.
Incidentally, May 26th marks the 8th anniversary of the very first Uni Watch column being published in The Village Voice. Another nice milestone.[/quote]
As far as the membership pricing… Between food and tix, I blew $40 on Spider-Man 3 last week (which stunk). I’d rather skip a bad movie once a year and invest in a worthy cause.
[/quote]
Or even batter, this, which is almost exactly like the logo:
link
Another Perry? Now I’m confused. But link must be the photo that the logo was copied from.
BTW I dont know what anyone thinks about this, but shouldn’t there be an increase in entries to raffles with the increase in membership level? If the $25 membership gets 3 extra entries, shouldn’t the $50 membership get 6?
The Joes logo is sweet stylistically, but the way it’s presented does bother the trained eye. Then again, this sort of sums up why we have a successful site like this–a bunch of us, presented with said logo, immediately looked at it quizzically and thought, “hmm, that doesn’t look right.” That’s why we’re a good community here. The other thing that bothers me about it is the helmeted head; Joe didn’t wear one of those.
Paul, I know this could be either good or perhaps a headache for you, but have you considered letting UniWatchers of a certain stripe (team) or locale (all following an area’s teams, ie: Chicago, the Twin Cities, etc.) collaborate on posting a UniCompendium of their area’s teams as sort of a mini-critique/history lesson/dossier for others to use?
I think it would be fun for several people, say, all Twins fans (please, anything to draw our attention away from what’s quickly becoming a painful season!), to get a deadline, go out and research a bunch of uni-related items, and report back by a deadline? Then, if you feel the info is worthy, it could run on one of those days when you need to concentrate on other matters. After all, we’re all a bunch of praise-deprived zealots…
Perhaps the process would go something like this: Paul puts out an RFP-like proposal for a certain city/team. Readers e-mail to say they’d like to dig in and then those who show interest connect via e-mail. The team breaks the project into pieces, goes forth to research, and eventually compiles a document with lots of links, tidbits, and other info. Paul reads it and, if it passes muster, is posted on one of his break days.
Some cities could brag about their consistency in presenting a tasteful tableau for generations; others (like my fellow Vikings fans) would have to show skill in explaining their team’s purple perdition. Houston fans, I feel sorry for you on this assignment already. Between the striped-Popsicle ‘Stros jerseys and those video-game explosion Rockets unis of the mid-’90s, you’ve got a lot of ‘splainin’ to do.
Happy Birthday to Uni Watch, and here’s to much more in the year to come.
Louisiana Tech is the newest school to be sponsored by Nike. Good news is the football uniforms will reportedly remain the link we’ve had since the link days.
I think the membership idea is wonderful. My only question is what will happen after a year and let’s say that you’re looking to renew at the same level…you already the “perks” (ie t-shirt, membership card, etc.) of that level. Is there really any motivation for a person to continue their membership?
I know that any renewing is over a year away, but just something that I thought should be mulled over by the powers-that-be to keep interest in the membership idea down the road.
HAPPY Birthday!! I’m in for a membership for sure. This site is my daily entertainment!!! You do a great job, Paul.
How many folks in the Pittsburgh Area would be willing to go in on the $1,000 membership in Order to get the party?
Its unfortunate that the ideas of numbers on the backs of shirts would be too expensive… I would really think about upgrading to the $50 if we got one with our number… That would just be too cool! There is a website called custom Ink that can make them for about 8 bucks a pop… 42 bucks out of 50 is still a nice chunk of change to keep…
Keep up the awesome work Paul and co.
-clink-clink-
cheers!
[quote comment=”87603″]I think the membership idea is wonderful. My only question is what will happen after a year and let’s say that you’re looking to renew at the same level…you already the “perks” (ie t-shirt, membership card, etc.) of that level. Is there really any motivation for a person to continue their membership?[/quote]
Yeah, that has occurred to me. We’ll come up with a new membership T-shirt each year, for sure, and I’ll try to come up with “renewal benefits” for each level as well. But for now, let’s just get the membership program off the ground.
For Perry here is a site about the Black Sox- I am not sure how accurate it is or how much of an apologist the author is but here you go- link
Wes I don’t think that it is in fact a helmet but rather a representation of how Shoeless Joe wore his cap when he batted; it looks pretty similar to the photo I already linked to: link
Thanks for a great year of great info, Paul! Your ESPN column and this blog make me feel like less of a freak every day, ha ha.
I’d love to help out by buying one of those Satin Piping memberships, because it would make my years of hat collecting seem less wasted if someone actually ever ASKED me about my collection! ha ha. But with a baby on the way, and a wife who doesn’t “get it” ™, I don’t think that has much chance of happening. But maybe I can ask for a Wool Flannel membership for my birthday! ha ha. Though by August, I’m guessing my beloved favorite number will be long gone.
Great job on the website i find my self lost on days with out it :-)
I love the mention of a Minnesota Interscolastic Athletic Conference (MIAC) team with the University of St. Thomas. The “of” is like The Ohio State’s “The” it’s just something they stress.
The MIAC has a lot of great basbeball uniforms. I saw most of them whil keeping stats at St. Mary’s my senior year while interning in the sports info department. Here is the run down of unis.
link I love the fact that most the team goes high socks!
link
link
link
link
link
link
link
link
link
Carleton – Sorry, couldn’t find any good pics.
Happy birthday! This seems like a good time to de-lurk and say how much I’ve enjoyed the site since I discovered it a few months ago. Keep up the good work!
Regarding Dave van den Bergh’s name, why don’t they just abbreviate it to “v.d.Bergh”? That is what Manchester United did for link.
Many salutations to you and this little venture of yours, Paul. This blog is (usually) good-natured and fun and it helps get me through an otherwise tedious day.
Here’s a thought: Include on the membership form a reason for picking the number one chose, then post it up in the “Members” section, kinda like the ESPN article about the numbers.
[quote comment=”87503″]It’s been semi-officially confirmed that the Baltimore Orioles will be returning “BALTIMORE” to the road jerseys next season!
It won’t win any more games, but it’s a step in the right direction.
Now if they’d return the link to the hat and link, the trifecta would be complete. (The 1966 uniform is my favorite, personally)
link[/quote]
Thats geat news!!!!! You’ve made my day!
Happy birthday, blog!
I’ve been reading since day 1 (I may have missed a few days while out of town and over summer or whatever), but I know I’ve read from the very beginning and I try to read every day.
I’ve even been lucky enough to be published as the main part of an entry (link), and even though it was probably one of those days when Paul is struggling to find something interesting to talk about and I happened to drop something in his lap that was at least passable for an entry, it was still very cool.
Anyway, even as a college kid I’m going to try to come up with the $50. You convinced me when you said it would be a new shirt every year…I couldn’t miss out on the first one.
Here’s to many more great birthdays for the UWB. Keep up the great work, Paul!
Damn! Already? It’s been a great year.
Thanks Paul for all the work you put into this.
Has it occurred to anyone that it would be a lot easier for Paul to attract more profitable ads if he could show them say 300 paying members and X amount of hits/comments per day? That is as opposed to the current method which, I assume is just the latter. Basically, doesn’t the immediate goal of members promote the long term goal of becoming a magazine?
Even though I disagree with everything you stand for aesthetically, it’s nice to see the site still kicking.
Happy Birthday UniWatch and all its contributors. Count me in for the Vertically Arched Membership when the time comes around. I’m already thinking of customizing my shirt with my number.
Sidenote: I was Lewis-Clark State(1) vs. Azusa Pacific(2) NAIA Super Regional game last night and my friend leans over to me not 5 minutes after arriving and says she hates it when baseball players wear their pants down to their ankles like…pants. It brought a smile to my face.
[quote comment=”87513″] the “new” ‘Canes jerseys aren’t a big change in the grand scheme. The overall design elements haven’t changed in a while, and they retain what has become an easily identifiable look for UM.[/quote]
I like how Miami uses difficult colors. Green and orange aren’t the greatest but the way they switch on and off between the two and use a ton of white they actually look pretty good.
What ever happened to the rumor the Miami Dolphins were changing their uniforms/logo?
Happy Birthday Paul, I’ve been reading since day one yet have never posted, but I thought what better day to start than today. Count me in on a 50 dollar membership. I’ll take good ole’ number 2. Unless other Houstonians would like to chip in for the $1000 dollar membership.
Thank you Paul and everyone for making this a wonderful blog.
The membership idea is a good one, this blog is too enjoyable to be free, and Paul absolutely should be compensated for his efforts. Plus the membership card may be the coolest thing I’ve ever seen.
As far as renewals go, it would be great to get a t-shirt with a new design each year, over time one could build up a nice collection. Also an excuse for the staff to design a new look each year, something I think they’ll like doing. I was planning on renewing my membership regardless.
Can we call dibs on a particular number in advance of the shirt design being finalized?
It has been a great year. Like so many of us here, I look forward each day to Paul’s entry and the comments. After suffering through so many years of Uni Solitude, it is great to be able to hear from other like-minded folk.
As for the memberships, I love the idea. In fact, I am already incredibly nervous about getting the number that I want (Paul, it was genius to assign numbers). When the time comes, I will be at my computer, mouse-clicking finger at the ready, awaiting the first possible moment to PayPal my cash.
My first thought when I read the blog today was that Paul had sold out and is doing the same kind of things he bashes Nike, etc. for doing. I’ve been a patron of this site since it began, submitted many uniform oddities I’ve seen, made it into the blog and column many times, and bought things from the sponsors. And now I have to pay more to feel like I’m a part of it?
Then I realized that paying for a membership doesn’t make me enjoy uniforms or Uni Watch any more or less. So if this it what Paul needs to do to keep the site up and fill his pocket at the same time, then more power to him. I haven’t decided if I’ll get a membership or not yet.
Maybe I’m in the minority on this, but it is how I feel.
If you purchase a “Vertically Arched” membership, shouldn’t the name on the back of the card be required to do the same?
Paul I have a suggestion for when you get over 100 members. Since we will have our choice of having a vertically arched,radially arched,straight,or no name at all number choices,why not have a # for each of those? This way you could have a vertically arched #8 (me),a radially arched #8,etc.
BTW……
thank you soooooooooooo much for this site.
How about if someboady already has a number you want, have the option of buying it from them like they do in baseball?
[quote comment=”87572″][quote comment=”87525″]Congrats on the successful year
I hope that t-shirt is like the membership card…you know, with the name and number on the back as well!!
Also anyone notice the logo creep on the cover of link??[/quote]
If I can figure out how to find it, I can comment…
and yes, congrats on the birthday, Uni Watch Blog!
As far as the Miami uniforms are concerned, I think the white one is my least favorite, but the Green and Orange ones are growing on me.[/quote]
Well considering the ball, towel, & right wristband don’t have any logos on them…and the fact that there is a swoosh front and center on the left wristband!
[quote comment=”87647″][quote comment=”87572″][quote comment=”87525″]Congrats on the successful year
I hope that t-shirt is like the membership card…you know, with the name and number on the back as well!!
Also anyone notice the logo creep on the cover of link??[/quote]
If I can figure out how to find it, I can comment…
and yes, congrats on the birthday, Uni Watch Blog!
As far as the Miami uniforms are concerned, I think the white one is my least favorite, but the Green and Orange ones are growing on me.[/quote]
Well considering the ball, towel, & right wristband don’t have any logos on them…and the fact that there is a swoosh front and center on the left wristband![/quote]
I can’t blame EA for this, considering their slogan, “If it’s in the game, it’s in the game.” And since logo creep happens in every major sport now, it transitions to the video games.
Happy Birthday.
I am from the Greenville, SC area and remembered talk that the Greenville Bombers was going to be called the Greenville Joes, but MLB wouldn’t let them because of his lifetime ban. So now we have the Drive. But what I want to know is how Anderson’s team was allowed to be called the Joes when Greenvile’s wasn’t?
Has it really been a year? Happy Birthday!
BTW, I’m headed back down to Philly for the Phils-Blue Jays game on Saturday (I go way too often for someone who moved to NYC). Not only is it yet again a rematch of the 1993 World Series (sigh), don’t forget the Phillies tried to change/changed their names to the Blue Jays.
link
And what will we do when we have more than 100 members? I’m still, uh, figuring that part out.
Come on, somebody’s gonna have to pick 1/8 as their number!!!
Thanks to everyone who makes this site happen. You can add me to the list of “card-carrying members” when it goes live.
I think you’ll have to consider Level 7: Purple People Eaters. At that level of sponsorship, Paul is forced to write a column praising the virtues of black and purple uniforms.
I’m not revealing what Level 8 will bring, but let’s just say it will involve indecent use of stirrups.
[quote comment=”87650″][quote comment=”87647″][quote comment=”87572″][quote comment=”87525″]Congrats on the successful year
I hope that t-shirt is like the membership card…you know, with the name and number on the back as well!!
Also anyone notice the logo creep on the cover of link??[/quote]
If I can figure out how to find it, I can comment…
and yes, congrats on the birthday, Uni Watch Blog!
As far as the Miami uniforms are concerned, I think the white one is my least favorite, but the Green and Orange ones are growing on me.[/quote]
Well considering the ball, towel, & right wristband don’t have any logos on them…and the fact that there is a swoosh front and center on the left wristband![/quote]
I can’t blame EA for this, considering their slogan, “If it’s in the game, it’s in the game.” And since logo creep happens in every major sport now, it transitions to the video games.[/quote]
The point was – why are the other items logoless?
I get the “if it’s in the game, it’s in the game” (except for the Oregon unis), I actually like that they at the little extras, just be consistent please
[quote comment=”87652″]Happy Birthday.
I am from the Greenville, SC area and remembered talk that the Greenville Bombers was going to be called the Greenville Joes, but MLB wouldn’t let them because of his lifetime ban. So now we have the Drive. But what I want to know is how Anderson’s team was allowed to be called the Joes when Greenvile’s wasn’t?[/quote]
My guess is Anderson’s team is probably playing in an independant league, therefor not under MLB rule.
Happy Birthday !!!
This site is my daily entertainment too!
Will be on the take for a Vertically Arched membership (#11)
– CK in KC
Like everyone else, Paul, congrats on the Blog making it this far. Even with as poor as I am (and that’s pretty poor), I’m going to scrape together some money for the membership. Love the blog and read it every day.
happy birthday uniwatch blog! heres to a great first year and many more to come! I’m looking forward to becoming a member.. no one take #2 !!
Maybe it’s because every time I hear “new Nike jersey” I expect to hate the jersey, but I actually kinda like the new Miami threads. But then again, compared to the other “new” Nike jerseys (Oregon, OState) Miami could wear high school practice jerseys and they’d be better. Does anybody else like them? And I like the Sabres jerseys.
[quote comment=”87654″]Has it really been a year? Happy Birthday!
BTW, I’m headed back down to Philly for the Phils-Blue Jays game on Saturday (I go way too often for someone who moved to NYC). Not only is it yet again a rematch of the 1993 World Series (sigh), don’t forget the Phillies tried to change/changed their names to the Blue Jays.
link
and after the series loss, they really wanted to be blue… wearing the blue hats and helmets for home day games… i think it lasted only 2 or 3 games…
[quote comment=”87612″]For Perry here is a site about the Black Sox- I am not sure how accurate it is or how much of an apologist the author is but here you go- link
By his own grand jury testimony and signed confession, he promised to take part and he took the money, albeit less than promised. Are we supposed to let him off the hook because he was double-crossed out of more money? As for hitting .375 in the Series with no errors, which was his major defense, well, not every game was thrown. He hit .250 with no RBI in the games the Sox lost, and also allowed an unusual number of triples to left field. I know this isn’t the place for this discussion, so I’ll stop now. There’s a ton of stuff on the web and in print for people to make up their own minds, but the Field of Dreams version that had him double-crossing the fixers is just so misleading.
[quote comment=”87502″]that beer can in the headline picture reminds me of a tecate/lone star combination…[/quote]
Ah yes, the National Beer of Texas. I’ve enjoyed many a Lone Star on a hot summer night or while floating down the Guadalupe in New Braunfels.
I was thinking the same thing about the simliar appearance: link
Ok, I put that picture up because I thought it was funny, but here’s an older can: link
Perhaps a little closer to Tecate: link
Anywho, congrats on the first year Paul and I hope there are many productive ones in your future.
Happy Birthday UniWatch and all its contributors. Count me in for the Vertically Arched Membership when the time comes around. I’m already thinking of customizing my shirt with my number.
Sidenote: I was at thelink NAIA Super Regional game last night and my friend leans over to me not 5 minutes after arriving and says she hates it when baseball players wear their pants down to their ankles like…pants. It brought a smile to my face.
Cubs at Mets just started….Mets wearing white pinstripes but the gawdawful black and blue caps.
Congrats, Paul, on the best damned blog in uni-land. What a wild and crazy year it’s been, and I am looking forward to year two.
I think the membership idea is a good one, and I will thumb-wrestle anyone for #43. I like the number on the back of the jersey idea, too. That’s a jersey I would actually wear.
As an ex-Ole, I am pleased by the pic of the Ole unis. They are pretty sharp looking.
[quote comment=”87642″]My first thought when I read the blog today was that Paul had sold out and is doing the same kind of things he bashes Nike, etc. for doing.[/quote]
I was aware that some people might feel that way. Personally, I think there’s a big difference between (a) an already robust corporation padding their profit margins even further with multiple revenue streams, and (b) an entrepreneur (i.e., me) trying to make a project self-supporting.
You may see it differently, and I understand that.
Congratulations, Paul, on a wonderful first year. I discovered the blog a couple months in and, ever since, it has been one of the first sites I visit every day. I wish I had time to contribute more. Some days, I feel like less of a member of this community because I don’t post every day, or multiple times every day, but I deeply enjoy reading your thoughts (disagreeing with some) and perusing the contributions of others.
I also appreciate how kind and respectful almost everyone in the UniWatch community is. Unlike so many Web-based communities, there’s room for multiple viewpoints and a healthy debate. I credit Paul for fostering this environment and to all of you contributors for sustaining it. Thanks go to everyone.
Paul, I hope you visit Chicago (or somewhere near my northern Indiana home) soon, since I couldn’t make it to the recent Chicago gathering. You know, if you ever do some research on college football, the College Football Hall of Fame is in South Bend, Ind., about half an hour from where I live.
If I give you you $2000, will you mow the Uni Watch logo onto my lawn?
Happy Birthday!
[quote comment=”87675″][quote comment=”87612″]For Perry here is a site about the Black Sox- I am not sure how accurate it is or how much of an apologist the author is but here you go- link
By his own grand jury testimony and signed confession, he promised to take part and he took the money, albeit less than promised. Are we supposed to let him off the hook because he was double-crossed out of more money? As for hitting .375 in the Series with no errors, which was his major defense, well, not every game was thrown. He hit .250 with no RBI in the games the Sox lost, and also allowed an unusual number of triples to left field. I know this isn’t the place for this discussion, so I’ll stop now. There’s a ton of stuff on the web and in print for people to make up their own minds, but the Field of Dreams version that had him double-crossing the fixers is just so misleading.[/quote]
Can a team not honor an individual for his accomplishments in the game while looking past his mistakes? I could just as easily point out the other players on the team who were far more culpable than Shoeless Joe who did not receive lifetime bans from the game (the entire pitching staff for example).
I think the reason why there hasn’t been a backlash like Paul feared is because this membership isn’t mandatory. We can still enjoy the UniWatch blog, but if you enjoy it enough that you’d like to support it financially and get a few perks to go with, you have that option. It’s not like Paul’s holding an old sweaty, smelly stirrup to our face and saying “if you don’t buy a membership I’m going to shove this down your throat… without any ketchup or salt!”
Once again, congrats on the one year anniversary.
[quote comment=”87684″]If I give you you $2000, will you mow the Uni Watch logo onto my lawn?
Happy Birthday![/quote]
I’ll mow it for $1500!!! Just send me the address and a bank or cashiers check and you’ll see me this weekend.
PS. You provide the mower. :)
I mentioned yesterday that Ryan Zimmerman of the Washington Nationals was wearing the long pants lately. However, when I cranked on TBS this afternoon, there was plenty of bright red sock showing just below Zimmerman’s knees. Looks real good when the uniforms haven’t gotten dirty yet.
There was also a little bit of Uni-discourse from the TBS guys regarding Jeff Francouer going to the high-sock look.
It’s unfathomable to me how the Chiefs made such an ugly stadium when all they had to do was drive 70 miles down the Thruway to Rochester to see how it’s supposed to be done. One of the many reasons I prefer my new hometown of Rochester to my old hometown of Syracuse.
If Syracuse’s new stadium had grass, I would argue it’s better than Rochester’s new park. Either way, neither park is classic in the way MacArthur Stadium and Silver Stadium were. And neither team, especially Rochester, though, should be proud of its logos:
link
[quote comment=”87684″]If I give you you $2000, will you mow the Uni Watch logo onto my lawn?[/quote]
With an old non-gasoline push mower!
How about membership comes with the ability to comment with your name and number as an avitar of sorts. That would make it easier to identify commenters instead of the small printed name, and also it will identify members from nonmembers, and maybe encourage more membership. No one wants to be the loser with just their small name.
At the bottom of link from the Atlanta Constitution-Journal, it says that “All ACC teams will wear black armbands to honor [Virginia Tech] during the next academic year”. First I’ve heard it officially reported. (link might need registration)
Paul, I look at this site everyday. I always read your page 2 article. I feel like I treat you and Uni Watch like that one chick you slept with and regret doing so. To combat sleeping with your, you just never talk to her again.
We all know, we all have done it (Paul probably more than most.) So to make things right, I will gladly do a membership.
In all honesty, I just want the shirt.
Keep up the great work Paul, we all enjoy your work and they time you put into Uni Watch.
It’s unfathomable to me how the Chiefs made such an ugly stadium when all they had to do was drive 70 miles down the Thruway to Rochester to see how it’s supposed to be done. One of the many reasons I prefer my new hometown of Rochester to my old hometown of Syracuse.
Get rid of the fake turf and Syracuse has a better ballpark than Rochester. And Rochester’s logo is just too damn goofy.
Happy Bday UW! Thanks for all the time and effort put in by each of you – Paul, Ek, Vince, Scott and Todd Krevanchi.
I believe the reason that there isn’t really any negative to the membership is that most of us realize the huge amount of work that goes into the site daily. I know I’ve wondered how Paul manages to pull it off everyday. And yet it never seems like he’s just mailed it in. Congrats!
p.s. you share the Bday with my little one.
In the internet age, too many people have come to expect things for free. News, music, software, etc. I easily get $25 worth of enjoyment for reading the blog, probably more.
Without some way of generating funds, too many great artists would have to get regular 9-5s and we’d be deprived of a lot of what we’ve come to enjoy.
Keep it up, PL.
[quote comment=”87656″]And what will we do when we have more than 100 members? I’m still, uh, figuring that part out.
Come on, somebody’s gonna have to pick 1/8 as their number!!!
Thanks to everyone who makes this site happen. You can add me to the list of “card-carrying members” when it goes live.
I think you’ll have to consider Level 7: Purple People Eaters. At that level of sponsorship, Paul is forced to write a column praising the virtues of black and purple uniforms.
I’m not revealing what Level 8 will bring, but let’s just say it will involve indecent use of stirrups.[/quote]
You could also go with a backwards 7, 09 a la Benito Santiago, and 337 in honor of Spaceman Lee’s valiant attempt to wear his name backwards.
I would be interested in calling dibs on #13.
[quote comment=”87706″]In the internet age, too many people have come to expect things for free. News, music, software, etc. I easily get $25 worth of enjoyment for reading the blog, probably more.
Without some way of generating funds, too many great artists would have to get regular 9-5s and we’d be deprived of a lot of what we’ve come to enjoy.
Keep it up, PL.[/quote]
Well said. its hard to hold anything against him for wanting to make a living doing something he loves and puts a ton of hard work into. It’s nice we’re getting a chance to support something like this early on and then watch to see what it evolves into. Its pretty exciting really.
[quote comment=”87673″][quote comment=”87654″]Has it really been a year? Happy Birthday!
BTW, I’m headed back down to Philly for the Phils-Blue Jays game on Saturday (I go way too often for someone who moved to NYC). Not only is it yet again a rematch of the 1993 World Series (sigh), don’t forget the Phillies tried to change/changed their names to the Blue Jays.
link
and after the series loss, they really wanted to be blue… wearing the blue hats and helmets for home day games… i think it lasted only 2 or 3 games…[/quote]
Yes, yes. Remember Kruk shredding one of those hats on Letterman’s show?
When you are thinking about whether to become a member, and the proper level of your membership, keep this handy metric in mind: If the blog is published 250 days per year, a $25 membership is $.10 per day, or $.50 per week. ($50 is $.20/day and $1/week, etc.)
How many daily newspapers or weekly magazines do you suscribe to that are that cheap? How many of them are as entertaining as Paul’s work? How many of them sell your name and information to telemarketers and direct mailers who bother you at home (something Paul, I am sure, will not do)? What would it mean to you if Paul had to decrease the frequency or close the blog?
[quote comment=”87700″]It’s unfathomable to me how the Chiefs made such an ugly stadium when all they had to do was drive 70 miles down the Thruway to Rochester to see how it’s supposed to be done. One of the many reasons I prefer my new hometown of Rochester to my old hometown of Syracuse.
Get rid of the fake turf and Syracuse has a better ballpark than Rochester. And Rochester’s logo is just too damn goofy.[/quote]
I’m going to see the Chiefs play the Durham Bulls this weekend. Never been to Syracuse, I live in Western Mass, but I love visiting minor league parks when I have the chance, and a law school graduation has provided it. Any cool insight for a friendly visitor?
[quote comment=”87714″]When you are thinking about whether to become a member, and the proper level of your membership, keep this handy metric in mind: If the blog is published 250 days per year, a $25 membership is $.10 per day, or $.50 per week. ($50 is $.20/day and $1/week, etc.)
How many daily newspapers or weekly magazines do you suscribe to that are that cheap? How many of them are as entertaining as Paul’s work? How many of them sell your name and information to telemarketers and direct mailers who bother you at home (something Paul, I am sure, will not do)? What would it mean to you if Paul had to decrease the frequency or close the blog?[/quote]
For just pennies a day you too could help feed a starving New Yorker.
I know Paul isn’t starving, it’s simply my stab at humor without the use of tone of voice. I will be a $25 supporter as that’s about as much as I can hide on the bank statment without the wife wondering what the heck I’m doing. So place a hold on #39 for me Paul.
[quote comment=”87684″]If I give you you $2000, will you mow the Uni Watch logo onto my lawn?
Happy Birthday![/quote]
For $42.75, can you draw a big purple swoosh on the astroturf on my balcony? (Ahh, city life…)
[quote comment=”87595″]First off, congrats to Paul and everyone on the UW staff. It’s been great interacting with so many other people that get it.
Second, in reading the article about WNBA players in Russia, they mentioned two Moscow teams, Spartak and Dynamo. There are also two pro hockey teams in Moscow named Spartak and Dynamo. Does anyone know if there’s lots of this name sharing over there, and if there’s a connection between all the teams that share a name?[/quote]
there are also two soccer teams in moscow with the same names. Like most of europe, Spartak and Dynamo started out as athletic clubs, became professional in a sport, made some money, and so started making other professional teams. Take FC Barcelona for example, not only do they have three soccer teams, but basketball, hockey, and others. And they all go by the same name. hope that helps
Since we are already claiming numbers, how about we wait for Paul to work out the details first? I’d hate to see dissent among the troops over a number.
Other than that, I assume it’s $50 US? Damned Canadian currency of mine. And no, I’m not springing for $1000 US. You said it had to be in the continental US, so I’ll just drive down to Minny if one happens there again. :o)
Anyone notice Oliver Perez in the Mets dugout with glasses?
[quote comment=”87695″][quote comment=”87684″]If I give you you $2000, will you mow the Uni Watch logo onto my lawn?[/quote]
With an old non-gasoline push mower![/quote]
Nope, with a rusty pair of hedge clippers… unless Shaftman beats you to it. I’m always amazed that groundskeepers are able to mow shapes and patterns into the outfield grass. I mean, I’m lucky if I can get straight lines when I mow! I did a little searching and found link about how designs are created on grass.
test
[quote comment=”87656″]And what will we do when we have more than 100 members? I’m still, uh, figuring that part out.
Come on, somebody’s gonna have to pick 1/8 as their number!!!
Thanks to everyone who makes this site happen. You can add me to the list of “card-carrying members” when it goes live.
I think you’ll have to consider Level 7: Purple People Eaters. At that level of sponsorship, Paul is forced to write a column praising the virtues of black and purple uniforms.
I’m not revealing what Level 8 will bring, but let’s just say it will involve indecent use of stirrups.[/quote]
Don’t forget that people will want #0, #00, and #09!
[quote comment=”87578″][quote comment=”87552″]Found link in an aritcle about the Syracuse Chiefs of the IL:
9. Tell the players to wear the uniforms correctly. If you’re going to make the stadium more pleasing to the eye, where better to begin than with the athletes, who are so fashion-challenged that they’ve chosen to play their games while wearing pajama bottoms rather than baseball pants? Is this the International League or a sleepover…and if it’s the latter, fine. Go ahead and place a pillow on each seat.[/quote]
Poliquin is right on all of the points he made. It’s unfathomable to me how the Chiefs made such an ugly stadium when all they had to do was drive 70 miles down the Thruway to Rochester to see how it’s supposed to be done. One of the many reasons I prefer my new hometown of Rochester to my old hometown of Syracuse.
And the membership idea is a great idea. I’d tape my membership card to the window in my office that all the students can see while they’re getting their mail. Maybe I could convert a few that way.[/quote]
Lake, I take it your a professor from your stints in syracuse and rochester?
[quote comment=”87690″]… It’s not like Paul’s holding an old sweaty, smelly stirrup to our face and saying “if you don’t buy a membership I’m going to shove this down your throat… without any ketchup or salt!”…[/quote]
The visual of that is just too funny. I laughed a little too loud in the office. One day this great blog is going to cost me my job! Paul, thanks for all your work on uniwatch and it is good to see I am not the only one obsessed with athletic aesthetic. If there ever is a Uniwatch party in Montreal I will have to sport my Anaheim Angels Turn the Clocks Ahead jersey, it is hideous!!
Keep up the good work and thanks again! Count me in as a single digit member. The lower the number, the better has been my philosophy for picking numbers.
In defense of Lindy Ruff, the Sabres wore red and black for a good chunk of his coaching tenure.
It’s possible that the tie was a carry-over from the Sabres’ old color scheme, something he pulled out of the back of the closet.
On the other hand, it could be some subtle cry for help, like the captive sailors of the USS Pueblo blinking SOS messages during their press conferences. Maybe Lindy is saying, “The league is forcing us to lose these games, because Bettman hates Buffalo. Everybody hates Buffalo! They’re all against us! Scotty Norwood was a pawn! Brett Hull was in the crease! Thurman Thomas’s helmet was stolen! WIDE RIGHT!!! WIDE RIGHT!! WIDE RIGHT!! WILLIAM McKINLEY IS ALIVE AND LIVING ON AN ISLAND IN GREECE! BUFFALO RUUUULES!!!!”
Or maybe not.
I don’t know that it will count for anything, but I’d like to call dibs on #21.
One suggestion, Paul…instead of requiring a $1,000 membership to warrant a trip to a city (which could create one membership for multiple people trying to get a visit), you could reward a region with a visit if they collectively raise enough in memberships. I mean I’d love to have a $1,000 membership and have you come to Seattle, but my wife would kill me. I could try to round up enough people to buy one membership to achieve that goal…but if 20 people from the greater Seattle area all bought $100 memberships, that’s $2,000…shouldn’t that be enough to reward the area? ….just a thought.
Anywho, thanks for a great blog!
When will we be able to purchase memberships and claim our numbers?? I just want to know so I can get a head start on that morning.
Happy first birthday to one of my best guilty pleasures on the net. Here’s to many more!
[quote comment=”87728″]I assume it’s $50 US?[/quote]
’Fraid so, yeah.
And given the overwhelming response both here and in the e-mails I’m getting, I’m inclined to make the membership/uni numbers non-exclusive after all. That way nobody has to claim dibs, nobody has to be disappointed by being stuck with a number they don’t like. Everyone cool with that?
[quote comment=”87659″][quote comment=”87650″][quote comment=”87647″][quote comment=”87572″][quote comment=”87525″]Congrats on the successful year
I hope that t-shirt is like the membership card…you know, with the name and number on the back as well!!
Also anyone notice the logo creep on the cover of link??[/quote]
If I can figure out how to find it, I can comment…
and yes, congrats on the birthday, Uni Watch Blog!
As far as the Miami uniforms are concerned, I think the white one is my least favorite, but the Green and Orange ones are growing on me.[/quote]
Well considering the ball, towel, & right wristband don’t have any logos on them…and the fact that there is a swoosh front and center on the left wristband![/quote]
I can’t blame EA for this, considering their slogan, “If it’s in the game, it’s in the game.” And since logo creep happens in every major sport now, it transitions to the video games.[/quote]
The point was – why are the other items logoless?
I get the “if it’s in the game, it’s in the game” (except for the Oregon unis), I actually like that they at the little extras, just be consistent please[/quote]
Actually, if you look closely, the right wristband DOES have a nike swoosh on it, its just positioned on the inside of the wrist, so its a little difficult to make out, but you can see that there is SOMETHING there.
I call dibs on #25. I will pay this very second if I need to, all I need are directions on how to pay with a credit card.
I rarely post, but I love this site.
I hope that I will be the first to call #21.
[quote comment=”87555″]Can we have the shirt with our number on it too?
I’d like the world to know what number I am. :o)[/quote]
Too bad this isn’t possible – if you spotted a UniWatcher from afar, you could come back to the blog and know who they are. Numbered jerseys would also be useful for the pond hockey game that the UniWatch Hockey Wing will surely put on some lovely day.
Teebz, what about a Hockey Wing patch for our new UniWatch shirts? :P
Happy Anniversary Paul et al. I wish I had time today, of all days, to gush about this site and the wonderful community of fellow uni-watchers.
Here’s hoping this site continues for many years (I’ll do my part; maybe request a membership for Father’s Day). I don’t think we’ll ever run out of things to discuss.
[quote comment=”87728″]Other than that, I assume it’s $50 US? Damned Canadian currency of mine.[/quote]
Bah, it’s at 91¢ a buck right now, it’s not that bad. Let just hope it doesn’t drop to .60¢ before membership payment opens. ;)
Btw, i had forgot about that Anson Carter link. :)
^Great idea!
[quote comment=”87753″]
Teebz, what about a Hockey Wing patch for our new UniWatch shirts? :P[/quote]
Not a bad idea. Let me investigate. This could be the best thing since the dawn of the Uni Watch Blog… ok, well, within reason.
Oh, and put me down for a membership, too. I have been wanting to donate to the cause for a while, and I am finally in a place where I can do it! (note to the poor college students of the board – it “only” took five years post graduation – hang in there!)
The exclusive numbers had a pretty cool ring to it, but I understand not going with that idea if it would cause a rupture in the community.
[quote comment=”87757″][quote comment=”87728″]Other than that, I assume it’s $50 US? Damned Canadian currency of mine.[/quote]
Bah, it’s at 91¢ a buck right now, it’s not that bad. Let just hope it doesn’t drop to .60¢ before membership payment opens. ;)
Btw, i had forgot about that Anson Carter link. :)[/quote]
No, it’s not that bad. But I could have paid Paul when I saw him in Minneapolis. ;o)
That Anson Carter goal was a distant memory for me when I started looking for goals, but I had forgotten about how much of a big deal it was when Team Canada rushed the ice. It’s like that college football play where the marching band is on the field because they think the game is over.
Odd happenings on ESPN’s gamecast option for the WEB. The background color for the Cubs logo today is black, I’m assumiong it’s because both teams (they’re playing the Mets) have blue backgrounds. If they’re going to split the two up so you can recognize the differences quickly, why not make the team who wears way too much black have the black background? May it was thought of, but the one who runs the gamecast site is a Uni Watch reader and is trying to ditch the black for the Mets.
[quote comment=”87749″][quote comment=”87728″]I assume it’s $50 US?[/quote]
’Fraid so, yeah.
And given the overwhelming response both here and in the e-mails I’m getting, I’m inclined to make the membership/uni numbers non-exclusive after all. That way nobody has to claim dibs, nobody has to be disappointed by being stuck with a number they don’t like. Everyone cool with that?[/quote]
I kind of like the individual numbers thing. However, I understand your point. There will probably be lots of dissapointment and possible conflict (Although I would hope everyone would be civilized about it). I do think that this would only be a problem at first. Once the initial rush is over, everyone will just have to deal with the fact that some numbers are gone. During the initial rush there will be alot of duplicate requests which can only lead to dissapointment. It would have to be first come first serve, which I think everyone would understand.
It appears I can’t put all of my thoughts into one post today – sorry for the unintentional blog monologue.
Paul, do you think it is possible to put “UniWatch Membership” as a category over on the right? There are some weeks where I am without Internet access, and it takes me a while to catch up with UniWatch. I want to be sure to keep up with the Membership news, and it would be easier to click on the category.
Of all the days to be out of office/away from computer all morning…
CONGRATS Paul and crew on the first year! Like everyone here, I am hitting reload on the page each morning for the new day’s read (except for today, of course!). It makes my day if something I send in makes it up in the blog, especially as readership has surely grown over the past year and I’m sure your inbox is full every day. We just overhauled my buddy’s Indians’ blog (link), and linked here so I hope that gets you at least another few readers.
And since Vince is here too, I hope that means there’ll be a Cleveland gathering soon! Maybe before September so you can see the Baseball as America exhibit?
Well, in any case, keep up the GREAT work! You’ve definitely got a candidate for membership here!
I assume it’s $50 US?
’Fraid so, yeah.
And given the overwhelming response both here and in the e-mails I’m getting, I’m inclined to make the membership/uni numbers non-exclusive after all. That way nobody has to claim dibs, nobody has to be disappointed by being stuck with a number they don’t like. Everyone cool with that?
Yeah Paul, we’re down with that – it’s not like these are security/I.D badges or anything. So what if there are thousands of cards out there with Ruth #3 on them?
Congratulations, Paul. The column and the blog are both pleasures. Keep up the good work, and I look forward to the next Chicago Uniwatch gathering.
[quote comment=”87753″][quote comment=”87555″]Can we have the shirt with our number on it too?
I’d like the world to know what number I am. :o)[/quote]
Too bad this isn’t possible – if you spotted a UniWatcher from afar, you could come back to the blog and know who they are. Numbered jerseys would also be useful for the pond hockey game that the UniWatch Hockey Wing will surely put on some lovely day.
Teebz, what about a Hockey Wing patch for our new UniWatch shirts? :P[/quote]
Count me in on the the UniWatch pond hockey club!
Now that we’re celebrating the site’s one-year anniversary, I’m just waiting for some professional athletes to admit that they’re readers as well–that will be fun. Imagine if Tom Glavine, Sidney Crosby, or Derek Fisher casually mentioned that he is part of the community or if one of them wore a UniWatch-branded hat in a postgame interview? That would be tremendous. You know it’s only a matter of time…
One more idea on multiplying the chances at popular numbers and rewarding early adopters:
First claimant on a number is on the “major league†roster;
Second claimant gets the AAA roster;
Third claimant is AA;
Fourth is class A;
Fifth is Rookie;
Sixth is Varsity;
Seventh is JV;
Eighth is Club;
Ninth is Intramural; and
Tenth is Rec League.
However, I really like the multi-sport or multi-color ideas better. Numbers have different connotations depending on the sport. A baseball jersey with 5 might be Pujols, DiMaggio, Holliday, or many others, but a football jersey with 5 is McNabb. Similarly, 13 in aqua usually means Marino, but in navy it’s likely A-Rod.
I was at a meeting this morning with state government officials and lobbyists, jotting notes like crazy, but the notes were the 27 different numbers I’d consider as my UniWatch number – each with various pros and cons.
[quote comment=”87766″][quote comment=”87749″][quote comment=”87728″]I assume it’s $50 US?[/quote]
’Fraid so, yeah.
And given the overwhelming response both here and in the e-mails I’m getting, I’m inclined to make the membership/uni numbers non-exclusive after all. That way nobody has to claim dibs, nobody has to be disappointed by being stuck with a number they don’t like. Everyone cool with that?[/quote]
I kind of like the individual numbers thing. However, I understand your point. There will probably be lots of dissapointment and possible conflict (Although I would hope everyone would be civilized about it). I do think that this would only be a problem at first. Once the initial rush is over, everyone will just have to deal with the fact that some numbers are gone. During the initial rush there will be alot of duplicate requests which can only lead to dissapointment. It would have to be first come first serve, which I think everyone would understand.[/quote]
But here’s the thing: Once we get past 100 members, there’s gonna be duplicate numbers anyway. So maybe it’s better to just give in to that inevitability right from the start. Otherwise, some people might wait to join, thinking, “Hmmmm, I can’t get #17 now, because John Doe has it. But if I wait until 100 people join, maybe I can get #17 then.” And I wouldn’t want to set up a system that makes people wait.
I’m still kinda thinking out loud about this — feel free to do likewise.
[quote comment=”87749″][quote comment=”87728″]I assume it’s $50 US?[/quote]
’Fraid so, yeah.
And given the overwhelming response both here and in the e-mails I’m getting, I’m inclined to make the membership/uni numbers non-exclusive after all. That way nobody has to claim dibs, nobody has to be disappointed by being stuck with a number they don’t like. Everyone cool with that?[/quote]
That sounds like the best way to avoid controversy, hurt feelings and the like.
[quote comment=”87767″]Paul, do you think it is possible to put “UniWatch Membership” as a category over on the right?[/quote]
Yes, that’s part of my plan. Once the T-shirt design is ready, the membership raffle winner has been announced, and I’m ready to accept $$$, we will add a “Membership” tab up there. Clicking on it will take you to a page with full details on how to join, as well as the “Active Roster” listing.
If we can have repeat numbers in All-Star games, I’m sure the UniWatch roster can handle repeats as well.
I’ll bet our fearless leaders never expected initial interest to be so high that duplicate numbers would be a concern!!!
(Just in case, pencil in a 99 for me.)
I think that whoever wins the membership raffle should have #1 retired in their honor for being the first ever licensed member of Uni Watch.
[quote comment=”87775″][quote comment=”87766″][quote comment=”87749″][quote comment=”87728″]I assume it’s $50 US?[/quote]
’Fraid so, yeah.
And given the overwhelming response both here and in the e-mails I’m getting, I’m inclined to make the membership/uni numbers non-exclusive after all. That way nobody has to claim dibs, nobody has to be disappointed by being stuck with a number they don’t like. Everyone cool with that?[/quote]
I kind of like the individual numbers thing. However, I understand your point. There will probably be lots of dissapointment and possible conflict (Although I would hope everyone would be civilized about it). I do think that this would only be a problem at first. Once the initial rush is over, everyone will just have to deal with the fact that some numbers are gone. During the initial rush there will be alot of duplicate requests which can only lead to dissapointment. It would have to be first come first serve, which I think everyone would understand.[/quote]
But here’s the thing: Once we get past 100 members, there’s gonna be duplicate numbers anyway. So maybe it’s better to just give in to that inevitability right from the start. Otherwise, some people might wait to join, thinking, “Hmmmm, I can’t get #17 now, because John Doe has it. But if I wait until 100 people join, maybe I can get #17 then.” And I wouldn’t want to set up a system that makes people wait.
I’m still kinda thinking out loud about this — feel free to do likewise.[/quote]
I like the idea of having the rosters broken down the type of membership, so that you can have Six Active Rosters with Each with it’s own numbers.
[quote comment=”87749″][quote comment=”87728″]I assume it’s $50 US?[/quote]
’Fraid so, yeah.
And given the overwhelming response both here and in the e-mails I’m getting, I’m inclined to make the membership/uni numbers non-exclusive after all. That way nobody has to claim dibs, nobody has to be disappointed by being stuck with a number they don’t like. Everyone cool with that?[/quote]
I think that is a swell idea, since most numbers will have the various person’s name above the number making it unique(plus I really want 1 of 3 numbers).
Happy Birthday by the way…I usually post as Brian D J on here but when i get my card I want it to proudly say SIMONSDADDY
Here is a thought. I’m convinced that Don Zimmer will never die, therefore, what will he do when he is in the game for his 100th year. Will MLB give him a special exemtion? I know it’ll never happen, but it’s something to mull over on the bus ride home tonight as I’ve finished my book and have yet to buy a new one.
[quote comment=”87775″][quote comment=”87766″][quote comment=”87749″][quote comment=”87728″]I assume it’s $50 US?[/quote]
’Fraid so, yeah.
And given the overwhelming response both here and in the e-mails I’m getting, I’m inclined to make the membership/uni numbers non-exclusive after all. That way nobody has to claim dibs, nobody has to be disappointed by being stuck with a number they don’t like. Everyone cool with that?[/quote]
I kind of like the individual numbers thing. However, I understand your point. There will probably be lots of dissapointment and possible conflict (Although I would hope everyone would be civilized about it). I do think that this would only be a problem at first. Once the initial rush is over, everyone will just have to deal with the fact that some numbers are gone. During the initial rush there will be alot of duplicate requests which can only lead to dissapointment. It would have to be first come first serve, which I think everyone would understand.[/quote]
But here’s the thing: Once we get past 100 members, there’s gonna be duplicate numbers anyway. So maybe it’s better to just give in to that inevitability right from the start. Otherwise, some people might wait to join, thinking, “Hmmmm, I can’t get #17 now, because John Doe has it. But if I wait until 100 people join, maybe I can get #17 then.” And I wouldn’t want to set up a system that makes people wait.
I’m still kinda thinking out loud about this — feel free to do likewise.[/quote]
I’d say your right on this. Duplicates are inevitable, so why not just do it from the start. I think the individuality of it has a lot of appeal though, so there should be some way to distinguish between all the the same numbers.
Paul…………so now anyone can get any number?
[quote comment=”87749″][quote comment=”87728″]I assume it’s $50 US?[/quote]
’Fraid so, yeah.
And given the overwhelming response both here and in the e-mails I’m getting, I’m inclined to make the membership/uni numbers non-exclusive after all. That way nobody has to claim dibs, nobody has to be disappointed by being stuck with a number they don’t like. Everyone cool with that?[/quote]
whew… good. because i dont have a “secondary” or “tertiary” choice.
[quote comment=”87791″][quote comment=”87775″][quote comment=”87766″][quote comment=”87749″][quote comment=”87728″]I assume it’s $50 US?[/quote]
’Fraid so, yeah.
And given the overwhelming response both here and in the e-mails I’m getting, I’m inclined to make the membership/uni numbers non-exclusive after all. That way nobody has to claim dibs, nobody has to be disappointed by being stuck with a number they don’t like. Everyone cool with that?[/quote]
I kind of like the individual numbers thing. However, I understand your point. There will probably be lots of dissapointment and possible conflict (Although I would hope everyone would be civilized about it). I do think that this would only be a problem at first. Once the initial rush is over, everyone will just have to deal with the fact that some numbers are gone. During the initial rush there will be alot of duplicate requests which can only lead to dissapointment. It would have to be first come first serve, which I think everyone would understand.[/quote]
But here’s the thing: Once we get past 100 members, there’s gonna be duplicate numbers anyway. So maybe it’s better to just give in to that inevitability right from the start. Otherwise, some people might wait to join, thinking, “Hmmmm, I can’t get #17 now, because John Doe has it. But if I wait until 100 people join, maybe I can get #17 then.” And I wouldn’t want to set up a system that makes people wait.
I’m still kinda thinking out loud about this — feel free to do likewise.[/quote]
I’d say your right on this. Duplicates are inevitable, so why not just do it from the start. I think the individuality of it has a lot of appeal though, so there should be some way to distinguish between all the the same numbers.[/quote]
Hmmm…Well the japanese (I believe) already use 3-digit uni numbers, or what about alpha-numberic designations.
(kidding of course!)
[quote comment=”87749″][quote comment=”87728″]I assume it’s $50 US?[/quote]
’Fraid so, yeah.
And given the overwhelming response both here and in the e-mails I’m getting, I’m inclined to make the membership/uni numbers non-exclusive after all. That way nobody has to claim dibs, nobody has to be disappointed by being stuck with a number they don’t like. Everyone cool with that?[/quote]
Other than coming up with regional or membership-based numbers, I think you’re going to have to settle for duplicates. You could conceivably have the members break themselves into teams divided by uniform preferences (i.e. “The Coll-Flos” or “The Striped Stirrups”).
BTW, in case duplicate numbers are eventually voted down, I call dibs on #21.
Okay, I meant the “Cool-Flos.” I better get these things right, being a writing teacher…
Just my 2 cents, but I would much rather repeat numbers in varying colors, designs, fonts, etc instead of having 15 maroon and green 2’s. I’m sure someone could design many suitable stylistic designs in a matter of minutes. Even a template with different colors would work fine. If the different designs could organize or coordinate members all the better.
Although, if they will not be used to idntify members as they comment or really identify members at all, it won’t matter.
[quote comment=”87796″][quote comment=”87749″][quote comment=”87728″]I assume it’s $50 US?[/quote]
’Fraid so, yeah.
And given the overwhelming response both here and in the e-mails I’m getting, I’m inclined to make the membership/uni numbers non-exclusive after all. That way nobody has to claim dibs, nobody has to be disappointed by being stuck with a number they don’t like. Everyone cool with that?[/quote]
whew… good. because i dont have a “secondary” or “tertiary” choice.[/quote]
Actually I don’t–and I’ve been trying to decide what number I would choose. Back in the day, when I used to have make these decisions, I would always take whatever number was available, given that the number was A) at least 2 digits, and B) a prime number. (Don’t ask me why–I’m not even sure).
[quote comment=”87804″][quote comment=”87796″][quote comment=”87749″][quote comment=”87728″]I assume it’s $50 US?[/quote]
’Fraid so, yeah.
And given the overwhelming response both here and in the e-mails I’m getting, I’m inclined to make the membership/uni numbers non-exclusive after all. That way nobody has to claim dibs, nobody has to be disappointed by being stuck with a number they don’t like. Everyone cool with that?[/quote]
whew… good. because i dont have a “secondary” or “tertiary” choice.[/quote]
Actually I do–and I’ve been trying to decide what number I would choose. Back in the day, when I used to have make these decisions, I would always take whatever number was available, given that the number was A) at least 2 digits, and B) a prime number. (Don’t ask me why–I’m not even sure).[/quote]
Ugh, I can’t type today, supposed to read “I do”
I like the idea of teams of some sort, that way no one has your number in the same color, and on the ‘active roster’ page it won’t look so unorganized. However, seeing as Paul has claimed 7, and that is the number I wish to have… I think we establish a Jackie Robinson rule where there are no repeat numbers, except for 7, in which we would honor the founder of UniWatch.
I also think that there should be different color schemes or associations for the cards and numbers. I like the thought of individuality amongst the members, even if some end up with the same number. I don’t know what would work best for this, but I think it’s a good idea. Just throwing my opinion out there.
[quote comment=”87800″]Okay, I meant the “Cool-Flos.” I better get these things right, being a writing teacher…[/quote]
Or the ‘Cool-link‘
[quote comment=”87807″]I like the idea of teams of some sort, that way no one has your number in the same color, and on the ‘active roster’ page it won’t look so unorganized. However, seeing as Paul has claimed 7, and that is the number I wish to have… I think we establish a Jackie Robinson rule where there are no repeat numbers, except for 7, in which we would honor the founder of UniWatch.[/quote]
We could just do it by region. NE, SE, Mid-West, West…or something along those lines.
I still think “retired” numbers is a cool idea.
Obviously this is up to Paul, but I would do something where anyone willing to donate in the level 5 or 6 catagory would get their number “locked” in special status (and it won’t be me–I’m definately in, but that’s a little out of my price range). So repeating or mulitiple numbers are OK, but if you let your wallet do the talking, you can claim the number as your own.
Whoever requests #25 should have an asterisk next to their number! haha Bonds AND McGwire!
I like hte idea of not restricting numbers right off the bat. Maybe the card can also mention the member’s favorite team as well, just thinking out loud is all.
[quote comment=”87815″]Whoever requests #25 should have an asterisk next to their number!
haha
Bonds AND McGwire![/quote]
And Giambi. And Palmiero. And, earlier in his career, Sosa. It’s definitely the steroid number.
a. uniwatch colors are green, burgundy, and yellow (gold) and until the colors change, then i dont see any reason why these membership cards should have varying color schemes. our state drivers licenses have uniform colors. just because i prefer UNC colors, doesnt mean i can adjust my license to reflect that.
b. remember, these membership cards are for fun, for show. they offer us no legal right or privelege to do anything else than say we donated money to uniwatchblog.com. i dont see why exclusive numbers would cause “all sorts of havoc”.
c. the membership tab is a good idea. i’d like to see what numbers people chose. but nobody is going to start referring to a poster by their number instead of their uniwatchblog name. (as an addendum to the recent dot com article on jersey numbers and the reason behind them, id like to see a reason why each member chose the number they did)
d. just like colleges and universities do, id like to see the occasional athlete or sports personality get awarded honorary memberships. this would be based on uni-merit of course.
just some thoughts…
I hate that #25 has become so tarnished. That was my youngest son’s T-ball number and he’s requested it in each of his sports … until two years ago. It also doesn’t help that he’s a big kid and some idiot spectator is always screaming from the bleachers, “Let’s see his birth certificate.”
Hard to pick a number that works in both football and baseball. Great baseball numbers tend to end up on qbs, kickers and punters. Great football numbers end up on batboys and scrubs.
Congratulations on the anniversary, and thanks to Paul, John, Scott and Vince for all their hard work.
@220 – Todd, I’m holding out for these membership cards to give us some special legal right or privilege. Trying to think of what an appropriate one would be . . . .
Just to restart the griping about MLB’s pandering to causes from earlier in the week… I want the #42 retired and in pink! Otherwise uni-watch is insensitive to both Civil Rights and breast cancer.
happy anniversary! I have been with you since the Village Voice days, and I have just cracked open a cold Brooklyn Pilsner, and I give you a toast: CHEERS!!!!!!!!
That way nobody has to claim dibs, nobody has to be disappointed by being stuck with a number they don’t like. Everyone cool with that?
I agree – only other thing would be to have numbers within memberships but that would only work if people spread their memberships over the whole span. I have a feeling most will end up in 1 or 2 groups. Glad you have to make the decision!
Thanks Paul – love the site! Keeps me entertained everyday!
[quote comment=”87606″]How many folks in the Pittsburgh Area would be willing to go in on the $1,000 membership in Order to get the party?[/quote]
I’m game for about $30-$50, but I’m certain that if I was dedicated to it, I could raise a lot more money.
As long as people are tossing in their own ideas. I think we can have duplicate numbers no problem. We all have a common bond in the site but we are not all on the same team. We would have our name on the front anyway and I think the stories associated with them would be interesting.
I would choose #19 because that was my football number in college. Who knows, you may meet someone else who has the same number as you at a UniWatch gathering.
SI.com’s 10 Spot Blog is covering ye olde Spurs-Bullets photo today.
link
[quote comment=”87840″]happy anniversary! I have been with you since the Village Voice days, and I have just cracked open a cold Brooklyn Pilsner, and I give you a toast: CHEERS!!!!!!!![/quote]
Brooklyn Brewery beers are. . . weak.
*ducks for cover*
Maybe we can do numbers in hex? or binary?
I want to be #1101 or D
gods I am a dork. Why do they let me out of the house in the morning???
[quote comment=”87858″]Maybe we can do numbers in hex? or binary?
I want to be #1101 or D
gods I am a dork. Why do they let me out of the house in the morning???[/quote]
roman numerals?
I agree that the duplication of numbers is a good thing to do. They way this board sounds, I think there should be no problem getting 100 members anyways.
I think there should some sort of recognition to members when they post…like a star next to their name or something along those lines. I don’t know if that can be done or anything. Maybe once you become a member you have to log in, and like someone mentioned before your Uni Watch screen can resemble your favorite teams colors or something like that.
P.S. I am dying to see these t-shirts. Can you imagine how cool this shirt is going to be coming from a guy who obsesses over uniforms/logos/colors??? they are going to be sharp… and probably green
How about international membership? I assume that the vertically arched rate is still $50 for us international challenged people in the UK?
Proud to say a reader since day 1, I’ve been hooked since reading the ESPN articles a while back. Happy Birthday, and thanks for giving me something to read everyday between studying at school! I also am part of the “my friends think i’m weird for reading a daily blog about uniforms” club, but darn proud of it!
Long live the watch!
i don’t know how but does anyone who does want to create a uni watch/ paul lukas article on wikipedia. Either or works and i would be fine working on it just i need someone to start it.
Great Job Paul and keep up the good work.
Same to everyone in the comments but on a little smaller scale :-)
[quote comment=”87865″]I agree that the duplication of numbers is a good thing to do. They way this board sounds, I think there should be no problem getting 100 members anyways.
I think there should some sort of recognition to members when they post…like a star next to their name or something along those lines. I don’t know if that can be done or anything. Maybe once you become a member you have to log in, and like someone mentioned before your Uni Watch screen can resemble your favorite teams colors or something like that.
[/quote]
Or just have the members’ flag of their country of origin next to their name. It would be like a World Cup of Soccer or World Cup of Hockey with all the nations meeting in one place with one common goal.
The Uni Watch Olympic Games? :o)
[quote comment=”87858″]Maybe we can do numbers in hex? or binary?
I want to be #1101 or D
gods I am a dork. Why do they let me out of the house in the morning???[/quote]
You think you’re a dork? I just did the work to figure out that 1101 is binary for 13.
[quote comment=”87582″]By the way, does it seem wrong to anyone else that a pro baseball team is named after a guy who DUMPED A FREAKING WORLD SERIES??? I blame Field of Dreams. I also blame FOD for casting an Italian guy from Newark NJ as Jackson, and letting him bat righthanded in the movie.[/quote]
FYI – regarding Ray Liotta, on the Adam Carolla radio show a week or so ago, Ray Liotta stated that he is adopted, and has no knowledge of his actual ethnic background. The topic of the conversation GoodFellas movie, Mob movies, Italian americans, etc. . . .
Congrats on the first year. It’s been spectacular. Thanks for all the hard work.
[quote comment=”87874″][quote comment=”87865″]I agree that the duplication of numbers is a good thing to do. They way this board sounds, I think there should be no problem getting 100 members anyways.
I think there should some sort of recognition to members when they post…like a star next to their name or something along those lines. I don’t know if that can be done or anything. Maybe once you become a member you have to log in, and like someone mentioned before your Uni Watch screen can resemble your favorite teams colors or something like that.
[/quote]
Or just have the members’ flag of their country of origin next to their name. It would be like a World Cup of Soccer or World Cup of Hockey with all the nations meeting in one place with one common goal.
The Uni Watch Olympic Games? :o)[/quote]
Probably don’t have enough countries to get much variety, but if you’d include state, province and/or city flags, it could be pretty cool.
[quote comment=”87878″][quote comment=”87858″]Maybe we can do numbers in hex? or binary?
I want to be #1101 or D
gods I am a dork. Why do they let me out of the house in the morning???[/quote]
You think you’re a dork? I just did the work to figure out that 1101 is binary for 13.[/quote]
You think you’re a dork? You don’t just KNOW that? ;-)
Say, wasn’t there some athlete born on 17 May, last name MAY, uniform number 17? I want to think that was a trivia question in the Uni Quiz a while back. And today, 17 May, is the birthday of the Uni Watch Blog? This is NOT a coincidence. It would be too good to be true.
i actually like the way Miami’s new jerseys look…the stripe across the chest and around the back seems to nicely echo design cues from Miami’s “U” logo…
great blog Paul
[quote comment=”87896″]Say, wasn’t there some athlete born on 17 May, last name MAY, uniform number 17? I want to think that was a trivia question in the Uni Quiz a while back. And today, 17 May, is the birthday of the Uni Watch Blog? This is NOT a coincidence. It would be too good to be true.[/quote]
I hadn’t even thought of that! You’re referring to Carlos May, who was indeed born on May 17th and wore uni No. 17. Good call!
Uniwatch is great. I don’t know how I would have made it through law school without it. Thanks to Paul and all the rest for their hard work. I look forward to being a uniwatch member.
Love the membership idea. I’ll definitely be signing up. I also liked the idea of multiple roster based on color or sport, or possibly even based on a particular uni related styles.
You could retire the yearly t-shirt and later offer a “throwback” as a perk for upper-level membership.
Cheers, Paul. It’s great to see the overwhelmingly positive responses to this new “product launch.” I’ll definitely be signing up when the time comes.
Happy B-Day, Uni Watch! I haven’t been around since day 1, but … well, week 2 or 3 or something like that. The membership idea is kickass. I’m still mulling over which level I’m going to be, but can’t wait to show off my card (I know we can have whatever number we want, but I’m still calling dibs on #24 anyway!).
Thanks, Paul, for all the hard work and for changing the way I watch sports forever.
I think I’ll wear my royal blue with orange striped stirrups tonight to commemorate this occasion!
yeah for not being the only dork on the blog! i agree with duplicate numbers, especially since the three main ones i’ve worn were already spoken for.
paul- if you got the memberships up and running before the end of august i’ll probably be able to pitch in something.
for the cards – what if you just put the name you post under on it, its personalized then.
and if someone starts designing patches some people might start looking like european hockey players. there’d be so many groups (black, hockey, soccer, cleveland, CWRU, etc)
I would love to have #63, and despite my name, I’m only in high school and have no $$$. I wear 63 for my high school football team, even with our terrible unis.
Working on Pix
[quote comment=”87695″][quote comment=”87684″]If I give you you $2000, will you mow the Uni Watch logo onto my lawn?[/quote]
With an old non-gasoline push mower![/quote]
I actually own one, so if you swing by Milwaukee, you can use it for the logo inscribing!
Congrats Paul. Here’s to many more
[quote comment=”87751″]I call dibs on #25. I will pay this very second if I need to, all I need are directions on how to pay with a credit card.[/quote]
[quote comment=”87820″][quote comment=”87815″]Whoever requests #25 should have an asterisk next to their number!
haha
Bonds AND McGwire![/quote]
And Giambi. And Palmiero. And, earlier in his career, Sosa. It’s definitely the steroid number.[/quote]
Dang, that’s me. But I like 25 for a totally link link.
Congrats on the terrific first year Paul! I dont know what I would do without this site!
btw check out this use of link
let’s try this again
Couple questions comments…
Good Idea first of all. I love your site and it’s become a daily check for me.
I liked the idea of one of the commenters on doing different “Sports” numbers. That way there is some doubling up (hockey #25, football#25, etc), but the number still is unique.
Is it possible to have odd numbers, like 1/8. My ultimate uni goal is to see a pro player wearing À. I would want that number, cause not only would it be combine the nerdiness of my uniwatch (that’s a good thing by the way) with the nerdyness of my science/math work.
I’ll add to the love fest! Thanks Paul for the year of the blog. I can’t remember how i stumbled across the espn column, but was extatic when you launched the blog. It’s great to read everyone’s opinions and spend this time learning things i didn’t know.
Anyway, what i was surprised nobody bothered to mention was the inclusion of shoes on a team named after SHOELESS joe jackson. Don’t get me wron, I think the hat is fantastic but that was the first thing that came to my mind when i saw it.
Does Rasheed Wallace ever velcro those straps on his shoes or does he always wear them undone? Not a huge bball fan and I just caught that.
With all these number dibs flying around, I’d better call 78. Even if there are multiples issued, I want to be first. :-)
Congrats on hitting the one-year mark. Uniwatch is the first website I hit everyday and I wouldn’t have any other way.
An aside…Kenny Rogers is still coloring in the batting practice hat…it looks even more ridiculous with this year’s bp hats.
I’ll join the $250 or above level to get a customized logo for my upcoming wedding. An interlaced “G” and a “B” in the wedding colors that get chosen. I think I convinced the fiance to include them in the invitations. Try not to steal my idea.
On Antonio McDyess’ jersey, his name has a space in between Mc and Dyess so it looks like Mc Dyess. However, this is not how is name is spelt. link
Even though I just graduated from 8th grade, and i get made fun of by my family everytime they see me on this site, I’m still gonna work hard and try to get those 50$, just to get a badass T-shirt. By the way, #20 in football, #21 in basketball, #16 in baseball, and I’m torn between them all. HELP!
[quote comment=”88003″]Even though I just graduated from 8th grade, and i get made fun of by my family everytime they see me on this site, I’m still gonna work hard and try to get those 50$, just to get a badass T-shirt. By the way, #20 in football, #21 in basketball, #16 in baseball, and I’m torn between them all. HELP![/quote]
Well, #19 is the average of all 3, or #57 is the total of all 3…….(I hope my math was right)
Can I be the 4th person so far to call dibs on #21?
Just kidding.
paul…for the 8th anniv. of your first village voice column, are you going to re-post that original column? just a thought. it’d be kind of cool to see what you wrote about…and how you’re style might have changed over the years.
todd k., if we are handing out honorary memberships, then Jose Cruz Jr. should receive the first one.
I am fine with repeating numbers, but I think Paul should be the only number seven.
I think this membership thing is going to be fun.
[quote comment=”88025″]Can I be the 4th person so far to call dibs on #21?
Just kidding.[/quote]
I noticed that, too. Very popular number, that #21.
Happy Birthday to UniWatch!
Thanks for all the hard work, Paul and the rest of the crew!
I’m excited about getting a membership! (and I think duplicate numbers are perfectly acceptable, just to add my two cents.)
Congrats on the Uniwatch Anniversary. My first post from the city of the Mets Sally League affiliate. It’s become a “must see” site for me every day.
Paul, I haven’t seen anyone mention this yet, but technically you have another twelve distinct numbers for the membership cards so it’s not just 100 numbers for the folks to fight over:
0
00 (think Robert Parrish and Ken Burroughs)
01
02
..
09 (Think Benito Santiago!)
The helmeted Oregon Ducks marching band doesn’t remind so much of Nazis as of something best not discussed on a family website. I’ll just thank God the helmets weren’t purple.
Belated Happy Birthday to the site and the man who indulges some of my most intimate sports loves. God bless Pauly!