By Jason Klein
Originally Written For IN New York Magazine – August 2011 Issue
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No “Cap” on Pondexter’s Abilities On or Off The Court
By Jason Klein
Originally Written For IN New York Magazine – 7/25/11
Cappie Pondexter is a dominating force in the WNBA. In just her sixth season in the league, the scrappy New York Liberty Guard has one of the most lethal jump shots in the league, and is among the leaders in most statistical categories. The superstar baller has already won two championships (2007, 2009) and one Finals MVP Award (2007), and was recently nominated by ESPN for the 2011 ESPY Award honoring the best player in the WNBA.
At 28 years old, the former Rutgers University standout is in the prime of her professional career and showing no signs of slowing down. As a celebrity athlete in New York City, she seemingly has the world at her fingertips. However, that doesn’t stop her from looking forward and thinking about what’s next.
“I’m preparing for my future after basketball,” says Pondexter. While I’m playing in the WNBA, I can use that platform to help build awareness for my company.
The company she speaks of is 4Season Style Management, a full-service consulting firm that specializes in helping clients develop their public image. Pondexter started the company in 2010, acting on a lifelong fascination with fashion trends and personal style development.
According to Pondexter, 4Season Style Management helps clients with everything from wardrobe selection, hair and makeup to website and logo design, ultimately creating a personal brand.
It all starts with a simple 30-minute introductory phone consultation and the creation of a “Style Profile” to nail down specific shopping habits, personal sizing and existing wardrobe trends. Each individual client enjoys the same personal attention to ensure a custom evaluation and plan of attack.
Although such detailed care can be rather time consuming, Pondexter takes great pride in her ability to find a balance with her busy schedule on the court.
“I am very involved in the day-to-day operations,” says Pondexter. “Whether it’s researching new designers, assisting with customer service, or reaching out to our clients, I make sure I take a hands on approach.”
Perhaps, running a company is a natural fit for such a competitive person like Pondexter, used to performing in front of thousands under the scorching lights of Madison Square Garden.
“There are a lot of similarities between the two,” admits Pondexter. “In basketball, and in business, you have to have a game plan. In both situations, I want to win and I strive to be the best. I push my team, and my clients, to be the best they can be.”
With that sort of passion and preparation, Pondexter will continue to succeed, and always stay ready for what’s next.
For a complete look at some of New York’s most successful athlete/entrepreneurs, check out Jason Klein’s full article in the August 2011 Issue of IN New York Magazine.
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4,000 Career Hits Within Reach for Jeter
By Jason Klein
Originally Written For Ed Randall’s Talking Baseball – 7/9/11
One thousand hits to go.
Derek Jeter will get to 4,000 hits. Guaranteed. No joke.
Sure, his much celebrated 3,000thhit, a home run off David Price of the Tampa Rays, was only written into the record books earlier today, but there’s no need to let the ink dry before looking ahead. There are still plenty of base-knocks left in his clutch bat – at least one thousand more to be exact.
That’s how the Captain of the New York Yankees has always operated – good or bad, the past is the past and he will reflect back when his career is over.
Mr. 3,000 now. DJ4K then.
There will be skeptics. Many will claim he is slowing down, his skills are diminishing, and that the end is near. Go ask Yogi, he’ll tell you when it’s over. Despite what critics say, Jeter will continue to push forward. That’s all he knows how to do.
He’ll celebrate number 3,000, as he should. It’s a remarkable achievement – one that only 27 other men in the history of the game can share with him. He is also the first Yankee to ever reach the milestone. But Derek Jeter has made a career out of achieving greatness without losing focus. This will be no different.
When it happens, Jeter will join the only other two players in baseball history to reach the 4,000 hit mark: Pete Rose (4,256) and Ty Cobb (4,189). It’s easier to compare Jeter with Rose than it is with Cobb. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all-time, Cobb had a 3-year head start on both Jeter and Rose, breaking into the big leagues at age 18. As a result, he collected his 3,000th hit as a youthful 34 year-old in 1921.
By contrast, both Jeter and Rose broke in as 22 year-old rookies (at age 21, Jeter did play 15 games in 1995, but didn’t qualify as a rookie until 1996). Also, both players reached career hit number 3,000 at age 37 – Rose got his on May 5, 1978. Rose went on to play another 8 years, but it only took him 6 more seasons to eclipse 4,000, turning the trick on April 13, 1984 – one day before his 43rd birthday.
Currently, Jeter has 74 hits in 2011, giving him an even 3,000 for his career. If he collects another 100 hits over the next few months, he will finish the season at 174, and 3,100 for his career – very doable for a player who has averaged 194 hits per year over the last 15 seasons. Under those very realistic pretenses, Jeter would only have to average 150 hits per year, over the next 6 years, to reach 4,000 by the age of 43 – just like Rose did.
Still don’t think Jeter can do it? Consider this: he has never failed to reach 150 hits in a single season. The closest he came was in 2003, a year he lost significant time to a shoulder injury. He only played 119 games that season, and still had 156 hits. True, those productive campaigns all came from a much younger Jeter, and he is bound to take a step back as he continues to age, but it won’t be significant enough to prevent one of the most consistent players of all-time from reaching Club 4K.
As Jeter battles both opposing pitchers, and Father Time, en route to 4,000 hits, there are four concessions he must make:
He has to change positions. Making the move to the outfield, and spending more time as the designated hitter, will make Jeter a more flexible piece within the Yankees plans. He could even see time in a third base/DH platoon with Alex Rodriguez. Sure, as a shortstop, he won his fifth Gold Glove Award in 2010 at the age of 36, and continues to prove doubters and statistical analysis wrong, but he won’t be able to keep that up as he gets into his forties.
He must take a pay cut. Prior to the 2011 season, the Yankees gave Jeter a new contract that takes him through his 40th birthday – the final year is an option year. The financial terms of the deal were very aggressive for a player of his skill level and age. However, he got paid, in large part, for his intangibles and his legacy with the franchise. When this current deal expires, he will need a new three-year deal to reach 4,000 hits. Jeter will not be able to command the same dollars then. While money is never an issue for the Yankees, they will have little interest in giving a 40-43 year-old Jeter the same $15-$17M annually that they gave him at age 37. If Jeter wants to preserve his legacy and collect his monumental 4,000th hit in pinstripes, he has to take less money.
He has to stay healthy and smart. Jeter, the definition of consistency, has only missed significant time twice in his career – the aforementioned shoulder injury in 2003, and this latest DL stint for a bum calf. Throughout his career, he has made a habit of playing through injury and shrugging off any suggestion that he might need to take a rest. For him to successfully make it through the next six seasons, he will need to avoid any major injuries and be smart about which minor ones he decides to play through. His body will heal slower as a forty-year-old. He must understand this and not push the envelope and risk further damage and missed time.
He needs to chase a personal goal for once. Forget Charlie Sheen, Derek Jeter is all about #winning. The unselfish Jeter has never been about personal statistics. Instead, he focuses all of his efforts towards the team’s mission statement: World Series championships. That has to change, slightly, during his quest for 4,000 hits. No doubt, the opportunity to add additional rings to his collection will motivate Jeter to continue playing, but his statistical contribution to the common cause will start to diminish. He must accept this, check his pride at the door, and be willing to play a few seasons below the “Jeter standard of excellence” in order to compile the necessary hits he needs.
If he can do the four things mentioned, and make 4,000 hits a priority, there is no doubt he will achieve it. After all, when has Derek Jeter not succeeded at something he set his mind to?
One thousand hits to go. No joke.
Mr. 3,000 now. DJ4K then.
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The Winner’s Circle
By Jason Klein
Originally Written For IN New York Magazine – June 2004 Issue
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Guestbook NY – Legendary Moments in Sports
By Jason Klein
Originally Written For Guestbook NY – 2008 Click each individual thumbnail below to read the feature story, exactly as it appeared in Guestbook NY 2008: 
Lockout Casts Bizarre Shadow over NFL Draft
By Jason Klein
Originally Written For IN New York Magazine – 5/2/11
This weekend’s NFL Draft was more awkward than Prince William and Kate’s Royal Kiss. Both were public spectacles with millions of viewers, and both just seemed a little weird.
With the ugly Lockout serving as a backdrop, all eyes were on New York City as the NFL kicked off its 2011 Draft on Thursday night at Radio City Music Hall. Traditionally a positive celebration of the league’s bright future, this year’s Draft was marred by greed and uncertainty.
When negotiations failed to reach a new collective bargaining agreement in mid-March, the NFL owners locked out its players, effectively ceasing operation of the nation’s most popular sport. Since that point, owners and players have not been allowed to communicate with each other, negotiate contracts, sign free agents, execute trades, or prepare for the upcoming season in any capacity. Players who showed up to team facilities have been turned away by security.
Yet, strangely enough, the show went on as scheduled Thursday at Radio City…sort of. As expected, NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell stepped to the podium to announce that the Carolina Panthers, owners of the first overall selection, were “on the clock.” Typically greeted with cheers, frustrated fans instead booed and bombarded him with “we want football” chants. He acknowledged the crowd’s pleas with a Tweet:
“I agree with the fans here at Radio City,” he posted on Twitter Thursday night. “We want football. I’m with you, I get it.”
Does he, though? Football fans can only hope so. The longer the NFL is doing battle in the courtroom instead of on the gridiron, the greater the possibility that the upcoming 2011 season could be in jeopardy – a disaster the owners and players should seek to avoid at all costs.
That grim possibility seemed to be ignored at the draft. Commissioner Goodell was all smiles – though it seemed like he was just going through the motions – as he ceremoniously welcomed each collegiate prospect into the same player’s union he is currently battling in court. Very odd.
Welcome to the NFL! Now you’re locked out! Go home!
Should the owners and players come to an agreement in time to salvage the 2011 season in its entirety, fans will forgive and forget. However, if this dispute lingers through the summer, cancelling games, the NFL could start to lose its loyal fan base.
It’s potentially a Royal mess.
Under the circumstances, it might seem awkward, but it’s time to kiss and make up.
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Bald Vinny Leads Roll Call, Passionate Bleacher Creatures
By Jason Klein
Originally Written ForIN New York Magazine – 4/12/11
Bald Vinny comes to play every night.
A staple within the hallowed walls of Yankee Stadium, like pinstripes and Sinatra, “Bald” Vinny Milano can be seen, and definitely heard, sitting in section 203 during every home game in the Bronx. It’s obvious that Milano is a passionate and dedicated Yankees fan. He is also the most prominent member of the Yankee Stadium Bleacher Creatures.
Although Milano is not the official leader of the Bleacher Creatures – that distinction goes to Tina “The Queen Bee” Lewis, a regular in the bleachers since 1983 – he became known as the face of the Creatures in 2005 after being featured on the YES Network’s “Ultimate Roadtrip.”
With his cult-like following comes a unique responsibility. Prior to the first pitch of every home game, Milano rallies the rest of the creatures to their feet, and works them into a pinstriped frenzy. As the first pitch crosses home plate, Milano gazes into centerfield, through his signature Oakley sunglasses, cups his hands around his mouth, and goes to work.
“Yooooooooo…Curtis!”
The Roll Call is underway.
Starting with the Centerfielder – Curtis Granderson has the honor in 2011 – Milano and the rest of the Creatures work their way around the Yankees defense, chanting the player’s name until they receive acknowledgement (typically a waive) from the player.
“Brett Gard-ner…Brett Gard-ner…”
A tradition in the Bronx since 1997, the Roll Call only takes place during home games. According to Milano, “it disrespects the other team” if done on the road. It’s also extremely difficult to rally enough troops to be heard while in enemy territory – not something the Creatures struggle with on East 161st Street and River Avenue.
“The Bleacher Creatures are the heart, soul, and passion of Yankee Stadium,” says Milano. We represent the most dedicated and passionate of Yankees fans, and we always show up in full force to do whatever we can to help the team win.”
“Swish-er…Swish-er…”
According to Milano, the Bleacher Creatures are a different breed of fan. They believe their proactive approach to cheering benefits the Yankees on the field. With the Bronx Bombers in contention for a World Series almost every year, it’s difficult to argue with the results.
“Most baseball fans around the country only cheer when something happens,” says Milano. “Yankees fans cheer in order to make something happen. In the bleachers, it’s our job to make noise when there needs to be noise. We are always the first on our feet when we need a big hit. We’ll do whatever we can to give our team an advantage.”
“Mark Teix-eira…Mark Teix-eira…”
However, for Milano, it’s not just about peanuts and Cracker Jack at the old ballgame. Attending every single home game as a fan is a time-consuming task in itself – he’s missed only 7 games since 2004. For Milano, it’s also his livelihood.
Before and after each game, Milano is stationed on River Avenue, selling official Bleacher Creature T-Shirts, a business he developed in 2001. In essence, he’s truly just doing his job everyday at the Stadium, getting to enjoy a ball game during his lunch break
“Rob-in-son…Rob-in-son…”
He often gets the question, “how do I become a Bleacher Creature?” According to Milano, there are only three simple rules to follow. First, a fan must willingly choose to sit in the bleachers. An everlasting passion for the Yankees is the second requirement. Finally, complete dedication is necessary. Milano is quick to point out that it’s easy to sit in the bleachers for a few games each year and claim to be one of them. That just won’t cut it.
“[Bleacher Creatures] attend 40-50 home games a year,” says Milano. “It’s about being there in person and supporting your team, day in and day out.
“Der-ek Jet-er…Der-ek Jet-er…”
Perhaps no one was as consistently devoted to supporting the Yankees as Freddy Schuman, the legendary super fan, better known as “Freddy Sez.” Schuman would walk around Yankee Stadium each night with a frying pan, urging fans to hit it with a spoon for luck. Schuman passed away in October 2010, during yet another Yankees postseason run, perhaps leaving Milano as the “next generation” face of the Yankees fan.
“That’s incredibly flattering to hear,” says Milano. “Freddy was such an iconic presence. I remember him when I was a kid. His longevity is really admirable.”
“A-Rod…A-Rod…”
Rather than compare himself to someone like Schuman, Milano remains humble, just happy to be associated with a great group of fans, and the premier franchise in professional sports.
“I’m proud that I get to represent the creatures, and I appreciate all the support I’ve gotten from Yankees fans,” he says. “I’ve gotten to live out quite a few ‘Yankees fantasies’ over the years and I enjoy sharing those experiences with other fans.”
He gets to do just that, when he shows up to play, every night.
To view Bald Vinny’s Line of Bleacher Creature Apparel, visit www.baldvinny.com
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Shonn Greene & Ray Rice Meet & Greet Scheduled for March 7
By Jason Klein
Originally Written For The Official Steiner Sports Blog – 2/16/11
Are you ready for some football…in March?
Why wait until September to talk football? Pitchers and catchers may be reporting to camp this week, but Steiner Sports is preparing for an unforgettable evening featuring two of the bright, young runners in the NFL today.
On Monday, March 7, a limited group of people will be talking football and enjoying time withShonn Greene of the New York Jets, and Ray Riceof the Baltimore Ravens. The event will take place in New Rochelle, NY at the Steiner Sports Corporate Headquarters.
Greene’s tough, bruising running style and Rice’s quick, elusive feet have made these two studs invaluable parts of their respective teams, keeping them on top of the competitive AFC. These two backs figure to be among the league’s elite for the foreseeable future – this is an opportunity to pick their brains and hear their stories.
This event will be limited to just 100 people (50 total packages of 2) and each package will take home mini helmets or photos signed by each athlete. Plus, fans in attendance will have the chance to take pictures with both players, enjoy food and beverages, and tour the world famous, Steiner Sports facility.
In 2011, the Jets and Ravens will no doubt be competing for a spot in Super Bowl XLVI. Before they begin that journey, they’ll be headed to New Rochelle on March 7th for an unforgettable “chalk talk” with fans.
Are you ready?
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Mariano Rivera Meet & Greet Scheduled for February 7
By Jason Klein
Originally Written For The Official Steiner Sports Blog – 2/1/11
Metallica’s “Enter Sandman” might not be playing, but everyone will know when Mariano Rivera enters the room.
On Monday, February 7, the greatest closer in the history of baseball will be meeting and greeting fans at the Steiner Sports Corporate Headquarters in New Rochelle, NY. Rivera commands a room just as well as his cut fastball, and will have the lucky audience captivated with his pinstriped stories.
Want to Meet Mariano Rivera?
A 5-Time World Series Champion and 10-Time All-Star, Rivera’s legendary career with the Yankees is mind-blowing. At age 41, he has shown no signs of slowing down, and has remained at the top of his craft for over 15 years. He is currently just 42 saves behind Trevor Hoffman on the all-time saves list, a number he could potentially pass in 2011.
During the hour-long event, Rivera plans to recount his past successes and entertain questions from fans. After posing for photos with those in attendance, fans will receive a special limited edition photograph, signed and inscribed specifically for the event. Restricted to just one hundred total people, this unique opportunity to spend time with the future Hall of Famer is not to be missed.
Among the most intimidating pitchers of all-time, Rivera is warm and respectful in person, reinforcing his place in the hearts of Yankees fans.
Raucous crowds welcome him nightly in the Bronx. When the Sandman enters the room on February 7, he will have the audience silent, in awe, hanging on his every word.
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Hard Knock Jets Get Knocked Out in AFC Title Game…Again.
By Jason Klein
Originally Written For The Official Steiner Sports Blog – 1/25/11
His eyes were bleary. His voice was filled with uncertainty. The New York Jets had just fallen to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC Championship Game and Jason Taylor was addressing the media.
Taylor and his Jets teammates had the rug pulled out from under their magic carpet ride towards a Super Bowl appearance, and he was discussing the harsh reality that awaited them in the offseason.
“This team as you see it tonight will never be together again,” he said. “Whether Jason Taylor’s back, or anybody else is back, it will not be the same football team again. It just can’t be. It’s sad in its own right.”
It’s sad, but that’s life in today’s National Football League. Teams looking to maintain a certain level of success each year must contend with factors like expiring contracts, salary caps, injuries, and age – all of which play a role in shaping a roster.
The 2010 Jets were built to win now. They acquired veterans entering the final year of their contract, and although their hand was stacked, they folded in Pittsburgh. Now they must deal with the ramifications after pushing all their chips to the center of the table.
Tough decisions will have to be made on key free agents like Braylon Edwards, Santonio Holmes, Antonio Cromartie, Brad Smith, Shaun Ellis, and David Harris, among others. Both kicker Nick Folk and punter Steve Weatherford are free agents too. Gang Green will also have to reach a verdict on the futures of aging superstars Ladainian Tomlinson and the aforementioned Taylor.
The Jets were presented with an opportunity in 2010, a once-in-a-lifetime shot to play for a Lombardi trophy. So what will it take for the Jets to get this chance again? It starts with another draft, mini camp, and grueling training camp two-a-days. They must endure another four-game pre-season and sixteen-game regular season. Along the way, they have to avoid potential pitfalls like key injuries, treacherous weather conditions, and any off-the-field issues that could prevent a player from performing.
If they manage to surface with a playoff-worthy record in January 2012, they’ll have to win at least one postseason game (at most two) just to get back to the same exact position they already had on Sunday morning.
It’s possible. After all, they’ve now done it two years in a row. They have a young, and now experienced quarterback in Mark Sanchez, and a passionate Head Coach in Ryan. One would have to believe they are set up well in those two key areas for years to come. As long as Ryan is leading the Jets, the mission statement won’t change either. He expects the Jets to be chasing a Super Bowl every season, starting with 2011.
In truth though, chances like the one the Jets just had are rare. Just ask Taylor. It took him fourteen seasons to get to this point, and he had to join the hated rival of his former Dolphins to do so. Taylor gave it everything he had, invested in Rex Ryan’s scheme, and believed his career would come to an end with him hoisting the Lombardi trophy in a green and white uniform.
Long-time suffering Jets fans also had dreams of green and white confetti raining from above. It will be 43 years and counting since Joe Namath led the Jets to glory in Super Bowl III, the franchise’s only appearance on the big stage. After all the hype, the free agent additions, Hard Knocks, Ryan’s bluster, the 11-5 record, and road playoff victories over Peyton Manning and Tom Brady, the fans believed this 2010 Jets team would be the one special enough to end the drought.
The Steelers had other ideas. The sobering reality left Taylor, his teammates, his head coach, and all fans bleary-eyed, filled with uncertainty, and forced to accept that this team, as constituted, will never be together again. It just can’t be.
A missed opportunity. It’s sad, in its own right.
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