Boston Sports Icons
FREE Sports Icons Series Sports Comic Book
Copyright 2015 | 2nd Edition 2017 By Jim Sweeney – The MIKE Maker Over 200 years ago, Boston boasted its place as the cradle of American liberty.
But today, the city is celebrated as an American sports capitol.
To many sports fans – especially those in New England - Boston is considered the greatest sports town in the United States. It has earned the enviable moniker by emerging as a sports mecca that produces Hall of Fame athletes and championship professional teams.
Once renowned for the revolutionary site of the Boston Tea Party and the courageous midnight ride of Paul Revere, Boston’s current popularity is rivaled by its retinue of noteworthy athletic accomplishments.
Boston sports fans proudly rave about their title winning home town teams the Celtics, the Bruins, the Red Sox and the Patriots.
Also rich in academia, this vibrant New England city lays claim to some of the most prestigious halls of higher learning. These schools have fathered Heads of State, Nobel Laureates and Captains of Industry. Despite its historic, academic, political and business laurels, today’s Boston may still be better loved for its sports-centric culture.
The Hub City cherishes not only historic Faneuil Hall and the legendary Old North Church.
With a regional pride that runs deep in athletics, it also venerates the hallowed sports venues of Fenway Park and the old Boston Garden.
To honor its rich sports heritage, I’ve penned this FREE sports comic book to acknowledge my top Boston Sports Icons.
The FREE book recognizes Boston’s most famous jocks as well as its most revered sports landmarks.
As a Boston sports lover, you will:
Remember the championship banners hanging from the rafters at the old Boston Garden and never forget the amazingly preserved environs of fabulous Fenway Park.
Read about the quick, diminutive Heisman Trophy winning quarterback and the big, beefy Dominican slugger who corned the market on DH awards in baseball.
Reminisce about the Beanpot, the most storied college hockey tournament of all-time, and ruminate over Heartbreak Hill, the running world’s most daunting and rarified piece of real estate.
Recite the incredible football feats of a brilliant Ugg wearing QB named Brady who sports movie star looks and a supermodel wife.
Relive the glory days of the Celtics’ beloved basketball playing Bird.
Revel in the extraordinary feats of Red Sox immortal Carl Yastrzemski.
And, remember the Bruins’ incomparable Bobby Orr - the best professional hockey player Boston has ever produced. Lastly, as a bonus, you’ll recall the self-serving antics of Boston’s most famous fictional athlete, Sam Malone, who surprisingly transformed into a national television celebrity.
Populated with clever comics and informative commentary, Boston Sports Icons is a wicked good read for every Boston sports lover.
Enjoy the FREE book, then, pass it along to a friend.
MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports! Why read this book?
Favorite #10: Heartbreak Hill
Favorite #9: Doug Flutie
Favorite #8: Big Papi
Favorite #7: Yaz
Favorite #6: The Beanpot
Favorite #5: Bobby Orr
Favorite #4: Tom Brady
Favorite #3: Bird
Favorite #2: The Old Boston Garden
Favorite #1: Fenway Park
Bonus Chapter on Sam Malone
Thank You & Affiliate Disclosure FREE Books
Podcast – MIKE on Sports!
Meet the MIKE Makers
Acknowledgements As highlighted on the cover, this book is fun, informative and witty.
The light hearted stories in each chapter are told by me - a Trademarked cartoon character named MIKE – aka Mike Raffone.
Boston sports fans will love my colorful stories, candid comments and informative content about the Hub City’s most popular sports icons.
Plus, the sports comics that accompany each chapter capture the essence of the featured Boston player, place, team, coach or venue.
As an added bonus, I always offer more FREE stuff in each of my sports comic books. See the back of this book for details.
In addition to featuring Boston’s most iconic fictional sports character, I offer several other FREE sports comic books for safe downloading.
Check out my author profile on Amazon.com, follow me on Twitter, fan me on Facebook and subscribe to my podcast – MIKE on Sports! MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!
Since 1897, the Boston Marathon has been recognized as the world’s oldest and most revered long distance running race.
Sprinting in as my #10 choice in Boston Sports Icons may be viewed as an unexpected entry because it doesn’t qualify as a player, team or momentous moment in sports.
However, whenever iconic Boston sports games, moments or sights are discussed, Heartbreak Hill inevitably surfaces in conversation.
Arguably the most famous piece of running real estate in the world, Heartbreak Hill separates excellent long distance runners from the truly elite. On Patriots Day each spring, Heartbreak Hill entertains teeming crowds of New England spectators who watch 20,000+ runners courageous enough to scale it.
The series of hills that actually comprise Heartbreak Hill appears after Boston marathoners have covered their first 20 miles of the race.
Amateur and professional runners who complete the 26.2 mile course each year suffer from more than dehydration, sore knees and blistered feet. Boston Marathon runners can get their hearts broken at this spot on the hilly course where they first catch glimpse of the finish line.
Located along Commonwealth Avenue in Newton, an affluent suburb of Boston, Heartbreak Hill is the fourth in a series of shorter rolling hills, none rising more than 90 feet in elevation.
Heartbreak Hill’s peak stands at only 236 feet above sea level, but its unexpected, 800 feet gradual scale surprises participants with another late climb.
Around the 20 mile mark, marathoners typically find themselves warding off the physical challenge of “hitting the wall.”
In the case of the Boston Marathon, runners hit Heartbreak Hill.
The nickname originated in 1936 during a surprise lead change at the 21st mile mark of the race. Boston Globe’s Jerry Nason reported that eventual champion Ellison Brown streaked past the front-runner and reigning champion John Kelley.
This lead change took place after Kelley already passed him on one of the previous hills and extended an encouraging tap on his shoulder.
Brown’s sudden surge supposedly broke Kelley’s heart and the Heartbreak Hill nickname was born. It marked the exchange of fate for a former, reigning champion and the name became forever synonymous with this legendary location. Over the years, many broken-hearted runners have succumbed to Boston Marathon’s biggest obstacle.
However, serious runners from around the globe continue to prepare annually to scale and overcome this daunting and legendary challenge.
That’s why Heartbreak Hill effortlessly runs away with the #10 spot in Boston Sports Icons.
Also, if you are interested in authentic sports merchandise and collectibles, simply click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above.
On the site, you can search for Boston Strong, Bill Rodgers and other Boston Marathon merchandise.
Note that we earn a small commission in the event you purchase any product from Sports Memorabilia. So, thank you.
MIKE - thee ultimate talking head on sports!
My #9 choice in Boston Sports Icons almost never got the chance to prove what he could do on the football field with a pig skin in his hand.
Boston College was the only Division I school to recruit the 5’9” and 175 lb. Doug Flutie and offer him an athletic scholarship.
Diminutive by big time college football quarterback standards, Flutie didn’t have to wait long to prove to skeptics that he was a natural leader and an elite playmaker.
During an October 1981 game against Penn State, Flutie seized the opportunity as a fourth string freshman QB when unexpectedly called on in the fourth quarter during a blowout loss. Flutie surprisingly passed for 135 yards in less than 15 minutes and showed uncommon cool and amazing athleticism for a freshman. Following the Penn State game and for the rest of his Boston College career, Flutie started every game as QB.
Along with Matt Ryan of the Atlanta Falcons, Doug Flutie ranks as the most celebrated athlete in Boston College history.
The 1984 Heisman Trophy winner also received the two other most prestigious college football honors that same year. Flutie won the Davey O’Brien Award as the nation’s top quarterback and the Maxwell Award as the top overall college football player.
In addition to his athletic achievements on the football field, Flutie’s alma mater recognized his academic excellence in the classroom by nominating him for a Rhodes Scholarship.
Doug Flutie finished his storied career in New England as Boston College’s all-time leading passer with 10,579 yards.
Flutie is probably best remembered for his improbable pass in the old Orange Bowl in Miami in November 1984.
During a high scoring, rain-soaked game, a scrambling Flutie threw a desperation pass more than 60 yards on the game’s final possession. Flutie’s Hail Mary pass found wide receiver Gerard Phelan in the end zone to give the Eagles a thrilling 47 – 45 victory over the favored Miami Hurricanes.
Flutie’s amazing pass is often remembered as one of the most incredible plays of all-time in any sport.
Boston College may have retired Doug Flutie’s #22 jersey, but the little quarterback’s legacy still looms large on the school’s campus.
A bronze life-size Doug Flutie statue greets fans as they enter Boston College’s Alumni Stadium to remind them of the always improvising, highly elusive, under-sized quarterback. Now, a polished and extremely insightful broadcaster for NBC Sports, Doug Flutie will always be remembered for his magical days as a truly talented and poised 5’9” quarterback at Boston College.
That’s why he didn’t need to scramble out of the pocket for the #9 place in Boston Sports Icons.
Also, if you are interested in authentic Boston College or Doug Flutie sports memorabilia, simply click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above.
On its site, you can find plenty of autographed Doug Flutie jerseys, footballs, photographs and more.
Note that we earn a small commission in the event you purchase any of the Boston College or Doug Flutie sports collectibles.
MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!
The nickname “Papi” translates in multiple ways within the Hispanic community. Several recognized G-rated definitions are: father, daddy, attractive man, affectionate pet name for a young boy, leading member of a gang and alpha male.
In Major League Baseball circles however, there exists only one instantly recognizable reference to “Papi.” The endearing name belongs to Boston Red Sox slugger David Ortiz.
Respectfully known as Big Papi, Ortiz easily swings his big bat into the #8 spot in Boston Sports Icons.
This extra-large Dominican embodies many of the positive and multi- faceted attributes of the “Papi” nickname. With a 6’5” and generous 275 lb. frame, Ortiz originally earned the “Papi” moniker for leading his “gang” of baseball teammates to three World Series championships in 2004, 2007 and 2013.
The handsome nine-time Major League Baseball All-Star is more than just a “father figure” in the clubhouse, as the “papi” name suggests. Brash, confident and skilled as a hitter, David Ortiz is a highly successful “alpha male” on the playing field as his impressive hitting statistics have proven.
Ortiz’s career numbers at the plate are worthy of Hall of Fame consideration. Big Papi’s impressive career batting average enabled him to sign a whopping $13 million per year contract with the Red Sox. He also set a Red Sox team record by belting 54 home runs during the 2006 season.
Ortiz is also widely regarded as the most highly specialized performer in a highly specialized position. The Sporting News and Sports Illustrated both named him Designated Hitter of the Decade.
A seven-time winner of the Edgar Martinez Award as the American League’s top DH, Ortiz remains the all-time leader among designated hitters in hits, home runs and runs batted in.
Big Papi has been so proficient at the plate in a Boston uniform that Red Sox legend Carl Yastrzemski surprisingly referred to #34 as the second best hitter in franchise history behind Ted Williams.
Ortiz’s imposing physique and colorful personality combine to make him a Boston Sports Nation favorite. Kids mimic his well-known histrionics in the batter’s box. They also wear Big Papi inspired sunglasses and batting gloves. And, rabid adult fans replicate Ortiz’s pointing to heaven while crossing home plate after belting a home run. The heavenward gesture originated as a tribute to Big Papi’s late mother who died tragically in a 2002 car wreck.
Big Papi’s watershed moment in which he emerged as a true Boston Sports Icon arrived when he addressed a hurting Fenway crowd in April, 2013. It occurred shortly after the insidious and shocking Boston marathon bombings. Despite Big Papi’s profanity punctuated pre-game speech, he encouraged a confused and reeling Boston community. Moreover, his powerful speech cemented the likeable large Ortiz’s lore in Bean Town sports history as a Boston sports hero who unquestionably embodies the city’s Boston Strong spirit.
That’s why the alpha male Big Papi boisterously barrels into the #8 pick in Boston Sports Icons.
Also, if you are interested in authentic Boston Red Sox or David Ortiz sports memorabilia, simply click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above.
On its site, you can find plenty of autographed Boston Red Sox bats, jerseys, photographs and more.
Note that we earn a small commission in the event you purchase any of the Boston Red Sox or David Ortiz sports collectibles.
MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!
My #7 Boston Sports Icon proves the best way to follow an icon on the same team while playing the same position is to become a Major League Baseball Hall of Fame legend, too.
That’s exactly what Carl Yastrzemski accomplished in 1961 when, as a 20 year-old rookie left fielder for the Boston Red Sox, he replaced the brilliant “Splendid Splinter” Ted Williams.
Yaz’s strong work ethic, marvelous athleticism and unparalleled commitment to the game equipped him to escape the looming shadow of the beloved Williams’ incredible career. He, too, would become one of Major League Baseball’s best players ever.
After 23 years in the same Red Sox organization, Boston’s iconic #8 etched the following impressive numbers in Major League Baseball history books upon retirement. Yaz finished 1st in total games played with one team, 2nd in total games played in MLB history, 3rd in total at bats, 6th in bases on balls, 8th in hits, total bases and doubles and 13th in career RBI’s.
It’s no wonder he became a first ballot Cooperstown inductee.
Carl Yastzremski was the son of Polish potato farmers living in Long Island, NY. Yaz never forgot the promise he made to his parents to graduate from college. Few fans know that Yaz originally attended the University of Notre Dame, playing for the Irish on a basketball scholarship. Additionally, he had once broken NFL Hall of Fame RB Jim Brown’s Long Island high school basketball scoring record.
However, like Jim Brown, Carl Yastrzemski chose another sport in which to excel. Yaz left college in order to join the Red Sox franchise as a second baseman. The club quickly changed his position from infielder to outfielder, but fortunately failed to convince Yaz to change his unusual swing.
As soon as he got his start in the big leagues in 1961, Yastrzemski became known for his unorthodox batting stance. The young left- handed hitter held his bat high over his head. This odd approach led to a dramatic arced swing in which fans almost expected to hear an audible swoosh.
Immediately, baseball players of all ages copied Yaz’s batting stance, but none experienced the same success as the young Boston Red Sox left fielder.
Yaz dominated pitchers at the plate. He compiled a .285 career average, belted 452 dingers, collected 3,419 hits in 3,308 games and hit for the elusive Triple Crown as the American League MVP in 1967.
Yastrzemski also excelled in the daunting environs of Fenway Park. He won seven Gold Gloves for being the best at his craft in spite of dealing with the dastardly 37’ wall, the intimidating and unpredictable Green Monster, in Boston’s left field. An 18 time MLB All-Star, Yaz may be best remembered for more than his athletic excellence. He was an amazingly committed and loyal guy who did more than just play his entire 23-year career with one organization.
Carl Yastrzemski kept the promise he made to his parents after skipping out on his basketball scholarship at Notre Dame. Yaz made his family proud in 1966 when he graduated from Merrimac College in North Andover, Massachusetts.
With a big bat and a bigger heart, it’s easy to understand why this son of Polish potato farmers swings in at #7 in Boston Sports Icons.
And, even while reading this book, you can almost hear the audible swoosh of Yaz’s swing! Also, if you are interested in authentic Boston Red Sox or Carl Yastrzemski sports memorabilia, simply click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above.
On its site, you can find plenty of autographed Boston Red Sox and Yaz jerseys, baseballs, photographs and more.
Note that we earn a small commission in the event you purchase any Carl Yastrzemski or Boston Red Sox sports collectibles. So, thank you.
MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!
This hallowed hockey tournament finds the back of the net in the #6 spot of my FREE sports comic book covering Boston Sports Icons.
The Beanpot Hockey Tournament may not be universally known outside the Boston area. However, its storied tradition makes it one of the premier athletic events during the New England winter.
The Beanpot burst onto the Boston sports scene in December 1952 like a bone jarring check into the boards. It was years before facemasks appeared on goalies and ESPN television coverage became ubiquitous. The Beanpot became an instant draw by pitting Boston’s four best collegiate hockey programs for bragging rights among the area’s passionate hockey fans.
Now in its seventh decade, the Beanpot brings Harvard, Northeastern, Boston College and Boston University to an annual battle at the Boston Garden as players vie for Hub City’s college hockey supremacy. The former ECAC, now Hockey East, hockey programs originally faced off in the prestigious tournament over 60 years ago. They have been integral participants in this intensely localized, two day event.
With its debut, Beanpot fever emerged in the Boston area. The sports event capitalized on all four schools. They were comparable in student enrollment and located only short trolley rides away from each others’ urban campuses.
Four highly motivated hockey teams enthusiastically descended upon the bad ice of the old Boston Garden each year.
And, one school skated away with a coveted trophy from one of college sports’ best overall experiences.
Surprisingly, the Beanpot began with small expectations in December, 1952. “It was designed as a filler,” said Northeastern coach Jack Grinold, the unofficial historian of all things Beanpot. “I mean, it was originally the first two nights after Christmas of 1952. It was to help the arena on off nights. It’s way, way beyond that now.”
However, a brilliant marketing ploy moved the event to the quieter month of February. This bold move greatly boosted attendance. A few years later, the annual tournament transformed from popular to iconic.
Legendary stories have always accompanied Beanpot references. None is better than the 1978 Beanpot when the epic Boston Blizzard of that year dumped over two feet of snow and stranded hundreds of fans for two days at the old Boston Garden. Until they were able to return home, fans from the four rival schools were forced to reside harmoniously in the old Boston Garden.
Since its inception in 1952, Beanpot rivalries have flourished in Boston hockey circles. The area’s rabid fans eagerly await each February tournament to help free them from New England winter doldrums and fuel an early spring fever.
According to former BU forward and 1980 Olympic gold medal winner David Silk, “Tradition and emotion are two words that come to mind when referencing the Beanpot. Anyone who has a pulse around here (Boston) knows about the tradition of the Beanpot.”
Per Silk’s quote, tradition certainly abounds at the Beanpot. Some fans can purportedly recite overall tournament records and individual stat sheets from all 60+ years of games.
Led for 40 years by legendary coach Jack Parker with three national titles, Boston University tops the Beanpot record book. B.U. has captured 30 overall titles and has scored in an incredible 98 straight games since 1963.
Boston College ranks second in Beanpot titles with 19 and has historically taken the ice as B.U.’s cross town rival and most hated nemesis. BC owes its success to Jerry York, college hockey’s most successful coach with multiple national titles on his resume.
Harvard’s place is secure in Beanpot history with 10 total titles and the tournament’s top scorer Joe Cavanaugh with 19 points.
Not to be overlooked, Northeastern has captured four Beanpot crowns and boasts the tournament’s best goalie in Bruce Racine who tallied an amazing 237 saves in 8 career games.
Boston sports fans have so totally embraced Beanpot hockey over the years that the wildly successful annual tournament has spawned Beanpot competitions in other collegiate sports around Boston.
Beanpot tournaments in baseball, softball, cycling, rowing, women’s hockey and lacrosse have steadily grown each year in the Boston area.
When it comes to tradition, rivalry, school spirit, great hockey and a short break from a long winter, the annual Beanpot Hockey Tournament reigns supreme for Boston sports fans.
That’s why the Beanpot faces off at #6 in Boston Sports Icons. Sorry, no Beanpot merchandise is available through any of my sports affiliate partners.
But, if you are interested in authentic NHL sports memorabilia, simply click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above.
On its site, you can find plenty of autographed NHL pucks, jerseys, photographs and more.
Note that we earn a small commission in the event you purchase any NHL sports collectibles. So, thank you.
MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!
In 1964 the Boston Bruins boldly gambled when signing a fresh freckle-faced 14 year-old from Parry Sound, Ontario.
The Bruins’ precocious pick is my #5 Boston Sports Icon.
Undersized at just 5’6” and weighing in at only 135 lbs., Bobby Orr lived with his parents during his first season with the Bruins’ Junior A hockey team, the Oshawa Generals.
Despite his small size, Orr’s incredible speed and amazing skill at such a young age failed to disappoint.
A phenomenal prospect, Bobby Orr not only grew taller, gained strength and developed a keen awareness for the game.
He also demonstrated a superb hockey ability that prompted the Boston Bruins to promote him just four years later. As an 18 year-old, Bobby Orr had matured into an immensely talented 6’ tall and 200 lb. defenseman.
He quickly flourished in Boston, becoming a fan favorite and earning the respect of both teammates and Bruins competitors.
Whenever he took the ice, #4 distinguished himself with an enviable all-around game. In addition to making hard checks and blocking slap shots, he showed his strength and toughness by moving opponents away from the net and even fighting when needed.
Although his career was shortened due to nagging knee injuries, Bobby Orr’s name is immediately mentioned when fans discuss all- time NHL greats like Wayne Gretzky, Gordie Howe, Mario Lemieux and Sidney Crosby.
Throughout his 12 year career, Orr displayed excellence on the ice. A speedy defenseman with exceptional puck skills, Orr collected a closet full of NHL hardware during his days as a Boston Bruin.
Bobby Orr earned just about every regular season NHL award a player could receive: the Colder Trophy as the 1968 Rookie-of-the-Year; two- time Ross Trophy winner for total points in a season; three-time Hart Trophy recipient for MVP and eight Norris Trophy selections as the league’s best defenseman.
Orr rightfully belongs in any conversation involving NHL’s all-time best players. His career highlights came in 1970 and again in 1972.
In both years, he led the Bruins to Stanley Cup Championships and was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as the Stanley Cup Finals MVP.
Perhaps Orr’s most memorable career highlight is his overtime goal during Game 4 of the 1970 Stanley Cup Finals.
An iconic picture of an air born Orr with his stick raised in front of the St. Louis Blues’ goal after scoring the series winning goal is widely regarded as one of the top photos in sports history. The Bruins rewarded their star by signing him in 1971 to the most lucrative hockey contract ever. Orr inked the first $1 million deal in hockey history by agreeing to play for five years at $200K per season.
Unfortunately, Orr’s hard charging style of play caught up with him. His fabulous career eventually succumbed to knee injuries and this incredible defenseman retired in 1978.
The Hockey Hall of Fame wasted no time in recognizing this amazing athlete. It enshrined him into their illustrious family a year later.
A once small and undersized prospect, Bobby Orr became a force on the ice and a huge star for the Boston Bruins.
It’s no surprise that #4 easily skates into the #5 spot in my book Boston Sports Icons. Also, if you are interested in authentic Boston Bruins or Bobby Orr sports memorabilia, simply click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above.
On its site, you can find plenty of autographed Boston Bruins pucks, jerseys, photographs and more.
Note that we earn a small commission in the event you purchase any of the Boston Bruins or Bobby Orr sports collectibles. So, thank you.
MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!
With a bulging bank account, movie star looks and a Brazilian supermodel for a wife, Tom Brady’s personal life is tough to top.
Throw an extraordinary NFL career into the mix and it shouldn’t surprise anyone that the New England Patriots’ star QB smoothly struts in at #4 among Boston Sports Icons.
Now one of New England’s most recognizable, respected and decorated athletes of all-time, Tom Brady’s path to NFL fame was hardly a foregone conclusion. Brady was taken in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft and never envisioned becoming a future Hall of Fame QB.
After backing up Brian Griese in his first two years at the University of Michigan, Brady emerged as a very good QB during excellent junior and senior seasons in Ann Arbor following Griese’s graduation. If not for an unexpected injury to Patriots’ star QB Drew Bledsoe, Brady may never have gotten a chance to prove just how talented he was as a passer. Or, how accomplished he became as a leader.
Brady filled in for the injured Bledsoe so brilliantly that he has never relinquished the starting role as Coach Bill Belichick’s QB with the New England franchise.
Recently, FOX Sports’ Curt Menefee commented that Tom Brady belonged on the NFL Mount Rushmore of quarterbacks.
That’s because his stellar football reputation should be etched in stone along with legends Peyton Manning, Joe Montana and Terry Bradshaw.
It’s tough to challenge Menefee’s bold statement when considering Brady’s sparkling career. Brady is a two-time NFL MVP and nine-time Pro Bowl selection. He’s tossed the most touchdown passes in an NFL season and has thrown for over 50,000 career passing yards.
The Patriots’ QB boasts the highest win total in NFL Playoff history and the record for throwing the most TD passes (13) in Super Bowl history.
Brady has played in six Super Bowls and has won four. In three of his four Super Bowl victories, he was named MVP. In 2010, the Patriots signed him to a contract extension and made Tom Brady the highest paid player in the NFL at the time.
Brady holds another remarkable NFL record.
The Northern California native who quickly adapted to the harsher New England climate has led the Pats to the most ever division titles in the always competitive AFC East.
Away from the gridiron, and in spite of the 2015 NFL “Deflate Gate” controversy, Brady appears to be always in demand.
In addition to serving as a corporate sponsor for brands like Uggs, Under Armor and Nike, he’s appeared on NBC’s Saturday Night Live, HBO’s Entourage, and FOX’s The Simpsons and Family Guy. The stellar QB has also been named one of People Magazine’s 50 Most Beautiful People and has graced the cover of Sports Illustrated as its Sportsman of the Year.
That’s some extraordinary resume both on and off the field for my #4 pick in Boston Sports Icons.
Also, if you are interested in authentic New England Patriots and Tom Brady sports memorabilia, simply click on the Fanatics logo above.
On its site, you can find plenty of autographed New England Patriots jerseys, footballs, photographs and more.
Note that we earn a small commission in the event you purchase any of the New England Patriots or Tom Brady sports collectibles.
Thank you.
MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!
This Boston Celtics legend is revered in the same breath as previously highlighted Boston sports heroes Carl Yastzremski, Bobby Orr, David Ortiz and Tom Brady.
It’s a slam dunk for NBA Hall of Fame forward Larry Bird to effortlessly find his way into the #3 spot in Boston Sports Icons.
Fondly remembered for step back jumpers, swishing nets, non-stop jabbering and long white legs in short green shorts, Bird is best known for winning basketball championships in Boston.
Most notably, his single name recalls multiple NBA banners hanging above the parquet wood basketball court in Boston. And, his #33 jersey hangs proudly over center court with other Boston Celtics greats like Bill Russell, Bob Cousy, Tom Heinsohn, John Havlicek, Sam Jones, Satch Sanders, K.C. Jones, JoJo White, Cedric Maxwell, Kevin McHale, Robert Parrish and Dave Cowens.
Larry Legend, the Hick from French Lick (IN) or simply Bird ranks as one of the most beloved basketball players in history. No first name or explanation is needed to identify the species of this once brilliant basketball playing Bird.
In 1978, Bird, along with Los Angeles Lakers’ legend Magic Johnson, battled in the NCAA Men’s Championship Game. The two forged the beginning of a basketball rivalry that would enrapture basketball fans for the next 13 years.
Voted college basketball’s best player as both the Naismith and Wooden Award recipient in the 1978-79 season, Bird finished his college playing days at Indiana State with a 30.3 career scoring average. He went on to play for the Boston Celtics who shockingly and shrewdly selected him as the 6th overall choice the year before they drafted him in the 1978 NBA Draft.
Bird's ascent in the league was instantaneous. Not only did he live up to his initial billing, he soared past the Boston Celtics' and NBA fans' expectations. Bird loved Boston and the city’s fans loved him.
In 1979, Larry Legend won the NBA Rookie of the Year Award. He also teamed with 7-footer Robert Parrish and 6'11” Kevin McHale to form one of the greatest front lines in NBA history. All three players were eventually elected into the NBA Hall of Fame.
During his career, Bird won three NBA Championships and three NBA Most Valuable Player Awards. A 12-time All-Star, Bird retired in 1992 with outstanding career numbers: 24 points per game, 10 rebounds per game and 6 assists per game. As his stats confirm, this deadly shooting Bird was regarded as both a highly skilled offensive player and a terrific rebounder.
During his entire NBA career, the blue collar Bird battled against his college nemesis Magic Johnson and established one of the NBA’s greatest individual rivalries. During the 1980s, Bird's Celtics and Magic's Lakers played as if their clubs were the only two NBA franchises competing for an NBA title.
The storied rivalry between Bird and Magic is memorialized in books and television documentaries. That same rivalry is credited for having transformed the NBA into the wildly popular professional sports league it has become today.
The Bird and Magic relationship culminated in their playing for the 1992 USA Olympic Basketball Team in Barcelona, Spain. As members of the original USA Dream Team, Bird and Magic helped revolutionize the sport and became the first two global basketball icons.
Unlike his nemesis Magic Johnson who would become a household name and flamboyant personality, the intensely private “Hick from French Lick” chose a different way of living his life.
Despite Larry Bird’s quiet lifestyle, there's no doubt this immediately recognizable, single named athlete has left an indelible mark on the city of Boston and the sport of basketball. He continues in the game today as an executive with the Indiana Pacers organization.
Larry is certainly is one Bird who soared above his competitors.
He also landed comfortably in the #3 spot in Boston Sports Icons.
Also, if you are interested in authentic Boston Celtics and Larry Bird sports memorabilia, simply click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above. On its site, you can find plenty of autographed Boston Celtics jerseys, basketballs, photographs and more.
Note that we earn a small commission in the event you purchase any of the Boston Celtics or Larry Bird sports collectibles. So, thank you.
MIKE - thee ultimate talking head on sports!
The original Boston Garden easily earns the #2 spot in my FREE sports comic book Boston Sports Icons.
Though the arena was demolished in 1998, its lore lives on and remains a beloved part of Boston sports history.
In addition to playing host to Stanley Cup Finals and multiple NBA Championships, the old Boston Garden may best be remembered for the incredible sports atmosphere it evoked.
The old brick building provided a huge home court advantage. The venue created an energized and cramped atmosphere that housed raucous spectators rooting from boisterous balconies. Some fans even had to crane their around obstructed views to see what hey paid for. In addition, the arena’s lack of air conditioning further contributed to the home court edge and legendary mystique of the arena. Melting ice and fog during spring hockey games and exhausted, wilted players during NBA Playoff Games combined for perhaps the most unique and antiquated venue in sports.
Initially designed in the late 1920’s by boxing promoter Ted Rickard, the old Boston Garden was originally called the Boston Madison Square Garden. Named after New York’s famed Madison Square Garden, it cost $10 million to construct. The arena was the third in what Rickard hoped would become a chain of seven Madison Square Gardens located in major cities around the US.
Like its New York City namesake, Boston’s Madison Square Garden was developed as a then state-of-the-art, multi-use entertainment complex constructed over the city’s vibrant rail transportation hub.
The Boston Madison Square Garden stood above Boston’s northern bound train terminal, also known as North Station, which serviced the city’s Amtrak and Massachusetts Transportation Authority’s needs for destinations as far away as Maine.
Few would have imagined how popular the arena would eventually become. The original Boston Madison Square Garden lived through several name changes and played host to concerts, prize fights, ice shows, professional and collegiate hockey and basketball games and even the circus.
Elvis, the Beatles, the Jackson 5, Pink Floyd and the Grateful Dead are just a few of the popular acts which performed in New England’s premier sports and entertainment arena.
Today, the new Boston sports arena built over the old Boston Garden elicits sentimental memories of its predecessor.
Over the past 16 years, the new facility has been called the Shawmut Center, the Fleet Center and the TD Bank North Garden. But, to satisfy diehard Boston sports fans whose hearts still yearn for the “old Garden,” the current name is simply dubbed the TD Garden. The original Boston Garden’s first ever event pitted prize fighters Dick Finnegan and Andre Routis on its November 17, 1928 card. The fight drew a great opening night crowd which raved about their proximity to the actual ring.
Rickard bragged that there would be no bad seats in his house because the Boston Madison Square Garden “was built to see the sweat on boxers’ brows.”
Ironically, the fight’s attendance paled in comparison to the first hockey game ever played in the new arena only a few days later.
An exciting 1 – 0 Montreal Canadiens victory over the Boston Bruins shoe horned more than 17,000 spectators into the old Garden. The game unwittingly set a precedent that the Boston Garden would not only play host to premier boxing bouts. Hockey would also be right at home in this sparkling new showplace.
More than hockey found its way into this historic venue. Following its name change in 1936 to simply The Boston Garden, it became home to both the Boston Bruins and eventually the Boston Celtics.
In 1952 the arena unveiled its famed parquet floor. This uniquely identifiable playing surface differentiated the Boston Garden from all other NBA arenas. Plus, while sitting so close to the gorgeous floor, rabid Celtics fans for many years provided a huge home court advantage for the team.
On their way to winning the 1985 – 86 NBA Championship, the Celtics finished 40 – 1 at home during the regular season and won every game in post season play.
The old Boston Garden will never be replicated in today’s professional sports world where bigger bucks, higher standards and safety regulations prevail. Power outages would no longer be tolerated, dead spots on the parquet floor would have to be fixed and fog during hockey games would have to be eliminated.
Finally, the 9’ shorter and 2’ narrower hockey rink would be disqualified per NHL standards for professional play.
Despite its well documented drawbacks, the old Boston Garden will never be forgotten. The incredible sports environment contributed to five of six Boston Bruins Stanley Cup banners and a staggering 16 of 17 Boston Celtics NBA Championship banners.
Fortunately today in the gleaming new TD Garden, the same NHL and NBA championship banners hang as proudly as they did for years from the creaking rafters of the antiquated, original Boston Garden – my #2 favorite Boston Sports Icon.
If you are interested in authentic Boston Bruins sports memorabilia, simply click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above. In addition, if you’re interested in authentic Boston Celtics sports memorabilia, click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above.
On the site, you can find plenty of autographed Boston professional sports jerseys, pucks, basketballs, photographs and more.
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MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!
Built in 1912, Fenway Park is more than just Major League Baseball’s oldest and most revered stadium. Rebuilt in 1934, the historic structure has been continuously upgraded and improved over the years. It’s likely America’s most beloved sports venue.
Regardless of age, sport or team affiliation, most fans will agree that Fenway Park is a sports gem.
With 500+ consecutive sell-outs and a storied history, it deserves its #1 ranking in Boston Sports Icons.
John I. Taylor, owner of the Boston Red Sox in the early 1900’s, never imagined the adored icon Fenway would become when he commissioned architect James McLaughlin to design it in 1910. At over 100 years old, much of Fenway Park still resembles what it looked like when its gates first opened to the public on April 20, 1912. Memorializing its importance in American culture and sports history, the National Registry of Historic Places added the structure to its enviable list in 2009.
John I. Taylor wanted Fenway to become a professional sports facility with a neighborhood feel. Not only did McLaughlin capture Taylor’s wishes in the park’s design, but visitors helped cultivate that neighborly Fenway feel for generations of future fans to enjoy.
Today, Fenway Park is widely accepted as a baseball shrine. It’s primarily known as home to eight-time World Series champions the Boston Red Sox.
Despite its baseball lore, Fenway has played host to much more than just America’s favorite pastime. Fans have also embraced diverse offerings of sports entertainment ranging from professional boxing (Cinderella Man Jimmy Braddock fought here) to the National Football League (the Boston Patriots once called Fenway home).
In addition to hosting college football, hockey and baseball games, Fenway Park once transformed its outfield into an outdoor rink for the 2010 NHL Winter Classic. In 2012, it even morphed into a soccer pitch for a sell-out crowd who watched English Premier League stalwart Liverpool defeat Italian Serie A power AS Roma.
Other unique non-sports related outdoor gatherings and cultural events have taken place at this historic venue. Fenway served as stage to Aerosmith, Stevie Wonder, Rolling Stones, The Police and Paul McCartney concerts.
Fenway also played host to a US Citizenship naturalization ceremony, a war memorial service, various political rallies and even a four day Jehovah’s Witness assembly. Hollywood movie watchers recognized Fenway as the backdrop for the movie Moneyball.
Without doubt, Fenway Park is most celebrated in baseball circles for its unique characteristics. The park’s design includes an asymmetrical field (consider the odd center field wall formation known as The Triangle), shorter distances to knock the ball out of the park (like Pesky’s Pole in the 302’ right field corner) and the legendary 37’ 2” tall left field wall, Major League Baseball’s most beloved landmark. The Green Monster’s 310’ distance to home plate has tempted right handed hitters since its 1912 construction as part of the original ballpark.
Over the years, this giant wall has turned routine fly balls into home runs and certain line-drive home runs into doubles. The Green Monster has either frustrated or unfairly rewarded hitters who have attempted to test their hitting skills against this monstrous wall.
Fenway Park’s left field wall wasn’t referred to as the Green Monster until 1947 when it was painted into what’s now known as Fenway green. The painting of the wall may have changed the color of the structure, but it never altered the reputation of this legendary piece of plaster known throughout the sports world. The 23’ net placed on top of the wall to protect store fronts below is now gone. In its place, 274 new cleverly named Green Monster seats have been added.
Another classic element of Fenway Park’s Green Monster is its old scoreboard. It continues to be operated by hand and is widely admired throughout the sports world.
During games, three full-time scorers are housed inside the walls of this uniquely nostalgic piece of sports history. Scorers expertly move 13” x 16” metal plates into openings on the scoreboard that record runs, hits, scores, pitcher numbers and American League standings.
Some of the best work performed on the Green Monster over the years has been the work of highly skilled left fielders. These great outfielders have successfully learned to play the unpredictable bounces off the oddly placed giant structure.
Among Fenway’s best were left fielders like Hall of Famers Jim Rice, Ted Williams and Carl Yastrzemski. They would hold long drives off the wall – certain home runs in other American league ballparks – and limit them to simple singles.
Fenway’s fearsome and unpredictable piece of Boston baseball real estate, fondly known as the Green Monster, is widely recognized as one of the best nicknames in all of sports. In addition to the Green Monster, Fenway’s perfectly preserved unique baseball environment, neighborhood feel and baseball lore make the stadium baseball fans’ most desired destinations to enjoy America’s favorite pastime.
That’s why, like catching a routine fly ball, Fenway Park is an easy play at #1 in Boston Sports Icons.
Also, if you are interested in authentic Fenway Park sports memorabilia, simply click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above.
On its site, you can find plenty of autographed Fenway Park and Boston Red Sox jerseys, baseballs, photographs and more.
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MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports!
If Italian Stallion “Rocky” Balboa is every movie fan’s favorite boxer, then Sam “Mayday” Malone must be every television viewer’s most popular relief pitcher.
In the same way the boxing “Rocky” never actually threw a punch, Malone never really appeared in late inning relief at Fenway Park.
Both imaginary sports characters are just legendary, but they’re perennially loved by sports fans to this day. Sylvester Stallone propelled Rocky Balboa to universal movie stardom, but TV actor Ted Danson transformed a washed-up baseball player and recovering alcoholic named Sam Malone into an iconic television star during the 1980’s.
As a result, Sam Malone is widely regarded as Boston’s most celebrated fictional athlete.
Major League Baseball history will reveal that Malone never played for the Boston Red Sox as a late inning relief pitcher. Instead, the fictitious pitcher rose to fame as the undisputed star and central character of the hit NBC sitcom series known as Cheers. Set in Boston, Cheers was the friendly neighborhood bar that Sam Malone bought after completing his supposed five year stint with the Red Sox organization. The bar he owned and tended was figuratively located in the hallowed shadows of Fenway Park. And, Cheers’ bar patrons absolutely loved him.
Most Baby Boomers have fond memories of Cheers. To this day, many Boomers can still recite the popular jingle from the show’s theme song, “You wanna go where everybody knows your name!”
Ironically, not every television viewer knew Sam Malone’s name when Cheers debuted in 1982. The show finished dead last in network ratings its first season and should have been cancelled.
However, Cheers was inexplicably given an opportunity to continue for another season. And it flourished. Soon after, the shallow, promiscuous, narcissistic and, at times, doltish Malone performed brilliantly. The sitcom rose to national popularity and became ingrained in America’s cultural consciousness.
Sam Malone was the unquestionable star of the series that spanned 11 years and 275 total episodes. Pew Research Center voted Sam (Ted Danson) the #1 television personality in 1993. He commanded as much as $475,000 per episode, a whopping sum in the early 90’s.
Accompanying washed up MLB reliever Sam Malone on the Cheers set was an eclectic, but brilliant group of characters. America’s television audience quickly fell in love with Cheers ensemble of quirky personalities, self-absorbed lives and outrageous back stories.
From crazy, easily agitated Carla (Rhea Perlman) to lovable, chubby Norm (George Wendt) and from prudish, elusive Diane (Shelly Long) to unwieldy windbag Cliff (John Ratzenberg), Cheers resonated with viewers who became easily enraptured by the show’s storylines.
The Cheers sitcom showcased Boston at its best and regularly recalled exploits of the city’s successful professional sports teams. It’s final episode in 1993 tallied 80 million viewers, second only in television history to Mash. Though a fictitious TV character, Sam Malone brought national focus to Boston as an avowed American sports capitol.
So indelible was his mark among American TV fans that an actual Cheers bar is found on Beacon Street that keeps the former fictional character’s lore alive today in Boston sports.
A recovering alcoholic and a teller of outrageous womanizing tales, Sam Malone may have never actually toed the rubber at Fenway Park.
But, this lovable scallywag and fictitious late inning reliever for the Boston Red Sox will always be remembered as Boston’s most famous fictional athlete. Who cares if Sam Malone never actually wore an MLB jersey? If you are interested in authentic Boston Red Sox and Fenway Park sports memorabilia, simply click on the Sports Memorabilia logo above.
On its site, you can find plenty of autographed Fenway Park and Boston Red Sox jerseys, baseballs, photographs and more.
Note that we earn a small commission in the event you purchase any of the Fenway Park and Boston Red Sox sports collectibles. So, thanks.
MIKE – thee ultimate talking head on sports! Thank you for downloading this FREE MIKE sports comic book.
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FREE sports comic books can be safely downloaded at no charge by clicking on the cover images of books on the following pages.
You will be directed to the www.theemike.com web site where you can safely download PDFs of the FREE books. Click on yellow cover above to safely download FREE MIKE Sports Comic Books from the www.theemike.com web site. Click on purple cover above to safely download FREE MIKE Sports Comic Books from the www.theemike.com web site. MIKE on Sports! Podcast
Click on the yellow cover to listen and subscribe to MIKE on Sports!
The podcast is for every American sports fan - especially those who like to laugh or learn something unique about sports. It's loaded with clever quips and fun sports stuff you should know that ESPN and other sports networks fail to report.
MIKE on Sports! offers great sports humor, short sports stories and interesting sports history that never really grab the headlines. Meet the MIKE Makers, Jim and Maura Sweeney, as well as the other contributors to this unique sports property. Jim Sweeney – Author
Born and raised in Trenton, New Jersey, Jim grew up with a passion for sports and fun. Participating in baseball, basketball, swimming, soccer and street hockey as a kid, Jim wound up playing basketball at Boston College where he captained the Eagles from 1977 – 1980 and received the Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award as the nation’s top NCAA basketball under six feet tall.
After a 20-year-career in sales, Jim closed the computer agency he founded to pursue a fun career in sports entertainment. Jim developed MIKE as an alter-ego sports personality and has penned dozens of sports comic books under the MIKE name.
Jim also blogs regularly on national sports sites under the MIKE name and has launched the popular podcast - MIKE on Sports!
Now in his fifties and living on the West Coast of Florida, Jim continues to play basketball regularly and always finds time for fun.
Jim serves as the Head of USA for FIMBA – Federation of International Masters Basketball Association.
Sweeney is also a three time World Masters Basketball Champion and a seven time USA Masters Basketball Champion. http://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesdsweeney Maura Sweeney – Publisher
A successful podcaster, Huffington Post contributor and public speaker, Maura became the driving force in encouraging her husband out of a highly successful business and into the pursuit of his dream – to create MIKE into the sports world’s ultimate talking head.
Maura is MIKE’s co-creator and publisher.
For more on Maura – http://www.maura4u.com Alex Salsberg - Illustrator
Cartoonist Alex Salsberg is the man behind Poke Gravy Studios in Boston. An ardent New England Patriots fan, Alex has created animation and illustration for many clients including Nickelodeon and National Lampoon.
Alex has drawn the cover and most of the artwork in the book. His work can be seen at www.PokeGravy.com. In addition to books, blogs and a popular podcast, MIKE is expected to be seen and heard on television and Jumbotrons.
MIKE is a registered Trademark. MIKE and all the artwork in this book are the property of New Vision Entertainment, LLC.
Special thanks to these MIKE contributors:
Kevin Riley – Animator Greg Stauffer – Studio Production Dave Rittenhouse – Studio Production Amy O’Hara-Cusick – Legal