Who Designed This Stuff?

May 4, 2003

I have found that one of the hardest parts about women playing tackle football is not necessarily the sport itself. Women can adapt to different environments, we can learn the rules, we can overcome adversity and ignore the controversy. One thing we have not been able to control however is finding equipment that fits. Most players including myself have settled for something that “works for now,” in the hopes that somewhere down the line a company will figure out the benefits of manufacturing women’s sports equipment. It should come as no surprise that there is a difference between a man and a women’s anatomy, so how is it that women are expected to comfortably fit into men’s football gear?

Women have hips, men do not. Women have boobs, men should not. Obviously not all women are the same. As with any mans football team, the different positions on the field call for different types of players. Lineman are typically larger, receivers and defensive backs are typically tall and thin. Regardless of this, the bottom line is there has never been a day when I’ve put on my equipment and thought to myself “ya, this fits perfectly!”

Helmets were not made for ponytails. I have yet to figure out a way to tuck all my hair into my helmet so therefore I have to have it hanging out down my back. My hair is not that long, yet last game I had it yanked twice. I don’t think there is a rule in the book that says no hair grabbing, it is probably considered part of the uniform. I would hope that the yanks were not intentional and I would assume that not grabbing another’s hair would be common courtesy. This is football however and some players do not have the term “common courtesy” in their vocabulary.

Shoulder pads were not designed for larger breasted women. As a matter of fact, shoulder pads were not designed with women in mind what-so-ever. I am not ashamed to admit that I have a small chest and in this sport that is an advantage. If shoulder pads sometimes get uncomfortable on me I can’t even imagine how the “well-endowed” ladies handle it. One of the most frequently asked questions I receive is “doesn’t it hurt when you get tackled?” At least my shoulder pads cover and protect me; for many others they do not.

Hip pads do not fit on our hips, thigh pads do not fit on our thighs. The pants were made for a bulge in the front not a rear in the back. The jerseys were made for thick necks and enormous biceps.

There is not one piece of equipment that has stopped me from going out and having fun. Like I said in the beginning, we have learned to overcome adversity. If someone is too concerned with how they look in a uniform maybe they should be a cheerleader rather than a football player. We go out and play with the cards we are dealt and love every minute of it.

Football is Life

April 23, 2003

There is so much more to being a successful team than just winning games. Obviously a teams win/loss records is the bottom line, but what makes up a team and keeps that team together is not just athletic ability on the field. It’s hard to believe that this football journey for me began almost exactly one year ago. I never imagined how much I would come to rely on my teammates both on, but more importantly off, the field.

For a number of reasons I was having a really bad week last week. I have always tried to keep my life outside of football off the field. Practice has always been a sage haven for me; a place where no matter what else is going on in my life I can go out there, forget everything else and just have fun. I also am a very private person in that I try not to let on when something is bothering me; I hate the feeling of vulnerability. Little did I realize just how much I have allowed myself to open up to the Sirens, nor was I aware just how well the Sirens know me. I did not say anything that indicated something was bothering me yet several players and coaches came up to me, hugged me and asked if everything was ok. They said it was in the way I was acting and the looks on my face; they knew something was not right. That is a real family; they just know you and are there for you.

I saw someone a few days ago wearing a t-shirt that said “Football is Life.” I’ve seen this shirt many times before with different sports stated on it but never really thought anything about it. The more I analyzed that simple statement the more sense it made:

You are constantly getting hit from every angle and often you don’t see it coming. Every now and then you get knocked down but most of the time there is someone there to help you back onto your feet. Once in a while you must get back on your feet all by yourself but there is never a time when others that support you aren’t close by to pat you on the back and encourage you to keep going. Everyone has a different role to play yet common goals to achieve. Some people don’t play fair. No matter how hard you work things do not always go the way you hoped they would or think they should. Everyone makes mistakes once in a while. Adversity is constantly an obstacle to overcome. At the end of the game, no matter what the outcome may be, be proud that you chose to participate.

Where would I be today if I had chosen not to join the Sirens team? I would probably still have the same job, still live in the same place, still have a daily routine. I may not even realize that something is missing in my life. To look back now however, I can’t imagine life WITHOUT the Sirens.

The Intimidator

March 30, 2003

There have been several occasions over the past year when, after taking a big hit, I have thought to myself “why am I putting myself through this.” Injuries have now become common place to me. Every game I come away with bumps and bruises, scratches, twisted ankles, sore muscles, etc. Sometimes I get up in the morning wondering if my body is going to carry me through the entire day. Luckily for me I have not sustained an injury that has taken me out permanently; I have still been able to go to the next practice even after the most brutal of games and participate and prepare for the next one.

Still early into the Spring season, we have seen a number of players go out with both temporary and season-ending injuries; quite different from our previous injury free season. One of the biggest losses on the field has been Nadine Vela, a starting veteran D-lineman. Nadine went down in our pre-season exhibition game against San Francisco with a torn Achilles; possibly ending the season for her before it even officially began. What I have been amazed with however, is the pride and perseverance Nadine has shown even though she is unable to play. Nadine has been on the sideline at every practice and every game even on crutches or in a wheelchair. Whether she is giving advice, cheering someone on or pumping players up her presence is felt; hence the nickname “The Intimidator.” For me seeing Nadine there makes me want to work all that much harder; I know what sacrifices she has given for the team and I see in her eyes how badly she wants to be out on that field.

JW: How do you balance football, work and family?

NV: Well, my first year of playing ball was when the Sirens first came to town in 2001. I was one of those girls who was going to put everything I had into making the team. So I spoke with my partner at the time and explained that I was going to make this team and wanted to put everything I could into it. Then I spoke to my boss and told him the same, then gave him a 2 month notice and helped train someone to fill my position. Then I told my mother I was going to try out and make the team she was and still is very supportive. “I love you mom.” So I quit my job to play ball. My new job was to train; I was in the gym 4-6 days a week. My family with whom I used to spend a lot of time with, now almost never sees me. Except at games and maybe if we had a bye. They know I love them.

JW: What is the best part about playing for the Sirens?

NV: The new “Sisters” I get as each new season begins. More “little sisters” to hit, beat up on and tease. No, I was serious about the new family I get every season. My old D-line coach (Tovar) said before a game one day “These are your sisters, you all share a special bond; football. It’s that simple. No matter who you become, or where you go in your life you will always have your sisters and the memories of the games you played.” To pave the way for other girls and women in football here in Sacramento is a great thing. Oh, and of course you get to hit people and not get in trouble.

JW: What are the reactions of others when you tell them you’re a pro football player?

NV: The reactions of people aren’t what they used to be. This is GREAT! I think more people are aware of the Championship team Sacramento has. Now you almost can’t get them to stop talking to you about it.

JW: Is being on this team what you expected?

NV: I actually had no expectations. I was going with the flow. I realized it was a new thing, and was and still am hoping for the best. I would love one day to have thousands of football fans watch women play a game, a sport that not everyone can play but many will try.

JW: What gets/got you through the tough conditioning at practice?

NV: Oh conditioning!?! What got me through the first year was, a lineman wanting to be faster than our linebackers. Then the second season, it was to play without “hurting.” Working through the pain. That was my goal every practice.

JW: What drives you to succeed?

NV: What drives me to succeed? Kimberly “Kitten” Bradshaw, she keeps saying she wants to play one more year with me on the line. That and a great come back!

JW: What do you plan to do after your Sirens career?

NV: I will still be around to help make this organization succeed. The Sirens are a part of my life.

JW: Do you have a “fondest” memory of playing for/with the Sirens?

NV: Unfortunately yes. This was our first season, we had the number one defense in the league. Every game was won with the opponent never scoring a single point. Until our last three games. What sticks in my head the most is, we (defense) were on the field and had to hold them, keep them from scoring, and it came down to a field goal. I remember it in slow motion. Kimberly and I were to open up the “A” gaps so our backers could get through and block the ball. When I got through, I remember trying to look up to see if the kick was god when I see Coach Tovar fall to his knees with his hands on his head. I knew we had lost the game. We lost by three points. The reason this memory is my fondest is this was a lesson learned, I never want to forget it. I think we expected to win, with all the “goose eggs” we had, being the #1 defense. I think for a brief moment “we” as a team lost sight of our true goal. We took a break and the better team took advantage of it. I can tell you this, Never Again!

JW: Do you have any funny childhood memories that have made you the person/player you are today?

NV: I don’t have any funny stories; I’m not exciting like that. I look kind of funny. Does that count? I try not to take things too seriously, life is way too short.

JW: What was going through your head when you initially got hurt?

NV: What went through my head was “who kicked me” then I heard something snap. I thought I broke a bone; at least that’s what it sounded like when I broke my finger. As I was sitting there on the ground, I couldn’t move my foot. I was scared but didn’t want to cry. Then the medical team came over and looked at me. I knew I had to get off the field on my own power I wasn’t going to give the Stingrayz the satisfaction of thinking they hurt me. But when I got to the sidelines, they told me I tore my Achilles tendon and I was out for the season. That’s when I cried. Now I keep working out and help out where I can that helps me get through.

JW: How tough is it to be on the sidelines and not be able to play?

NV: Being on the sidelines is not easy. Especially since I know I won’t be on the field any time soon. I have thought of not coming to practices and even just sitting in the bleachers instead of standing on the sidelines. But that would be giving up. I can’t do that. Not now. Besides, I have to try and beat the odds and work towards a great come back. #99 is not gone yet!

JW: While you are on “Injured Reserve,” how do you see your role as a Siren?

NV: IR sucks. It’s that simple. I have heard some people say that me being at practice and on the sidelines helps them. Hey, you know me, whenever I can help out I’m there.

Overcoming Adversity

March 18, 2003

Since the beginning of time man has had obstacles to overcome. For those that believe in the story of creation, we al know that from the very beginning the ability to choose right or wrong has been placed in our hands. Sometimes however, situations are presented that are beyond our control. In these circumstances the choice has to e made whether to lower your head and turn away or to take a deep breath and fight through it with whatever you have.

Entering my senior year of high school, there were many expectations for the varsity soccer team. We had a lot of returning players and some very good prospective athletes joining the team. A couple weeks before the season was scheduled to begin we had team pictures. We were told not to make any gestures to the camera, just to stand there and smile. Several players (including four starters), thinking this was a perfect opportunity to joke around, made gestures anyway. These gestures were not offensive however these players did go against school policy for team photos and were subsequently kicked off the team. For some, the dream of a championship season was shattered. We all knew that not having these players on our team would make things more difficult, however we also knew that there were many outstanding athletes still on the team. We had two choices; we could dwell on what we didn’t have or we could thrive on what we did have. Our motto for the season was to overcome adversity, no matter what that may be.

Every team has adversity to overcome. It may be as simple as finding a place to practice or equipment to use. It may be figuring out how to get to a game or pay for those travel expenses. Sometimes you’re playing in a game and it seems as if there is never a call that goes your way. Other times no matter how fair you play the opponent has their own agenda and taking cheap shots and talking smack is all “part of the game.” A true test of a team is how they respond to these obstacles. Do you give up and walk away? Do you fight back? Do you ignore it all and remain focused on your agenda?

With only two regular season games under our belts in 2003, the Sirens have had to face many if not all of these obstacles this year. It is our policy to remain professional and level-headed at all times. Although we are in a new league this seasons, we come in as a defending champion. We have won 14 games in a row (including preseason games). Teams that feel they have nothing to lose may attempt to rattle us by words, gestures or other actions and consider it all “gamesmanship.” I know for me when I see or hear this from another team it makes me even more determined to win.

A true “professional” team does not need to tell people how good they are. They show people by their actions on the field. When we score we act like we’ve been there before. When a great play is made we congratulate our own players; we do not taunt the other team. When something goes wrong we move on because we know more than likely in the next play something may go very right!

Everyone supports one another, including players, coaches, staff and owners. Grudges are not held between players, criticism is given (and taken) constructively, games are won through hard work and desire. Life will always present adversity no matter where you are. It is those that persevere and overcome these obstacles that, at the end of the day, can let out that deep breath they took with their head held high.

Football, Firefighting and Family

March 9, 2003

After writing my personal perspectives last season (not to mention admitting to several embarrassing childhood memories) I decided it was about time to “share the wealth.” By now anyone who has read my previous perspectives probably has a good idea as to what kind of person I am, yet there are over 50 women on the Sacramento Sirens team. Although we all have a common goal, every player has different views of the game and reason’s for playing, different backgrounds and stories to tell.

Lisa Giblin, our starting fullback, is one of the main reasons for the success that the Sirens offense continues to have stemming back to the beginning of the last season. Lisa’s constant positive attitude, unselfish play and extremely hard work ethic all contribute to the team’s average of 50+ points per game. She constantly challenges herself and strives to continually better her play, which reflects in everything she does and raises the level of play in the teammates that surround her. I know that when Lisa is in the game I can count on her to make the blocks needed to break a play wide open. When we need a few yards for a first down Lisa will do whatever is asked to make sure we get there. Whether it is taking an opposing player out of the play through a crushing block or carrying the ball herself there is no doubt she will get the job done.

Recently I decided to take the opportunity to let others learn a little more about Lisa.

JW: How do you balance football, work and family?

LG: It gets pretty tough sometimes. I fortunately have a very understanding husband who supports me in everything I do. He just takes a little coaxing every now and then (smile). As far as work goes, I have a co-worker who trades shifts with me. It works out pretty well most of the time. Our social life is the part that has taken the biggest hit. We used to be able to just pack the truck and leave for four days. Now that is pretty much impossible. With the shift trades, regular shifts and practice I pretty much have something going on every day. Not to worry though, after football is over this year we are going camping for a whole month!

JW: What is the best part about playing for the Sirens?

LG: Being a part of a structured team is probably the best part. After finishing school sports, I started playing rec. league softball and played on a few traveling teams. I missed having practices where we actually did drills and everyone actually showed up. One of the other great things that has happened since I became a Siren is that I have met some really interesting people. These are people that I probably wouldn’t have given the time of day to if we passed on the street.

JW: What are the reactions of others when you tell them you’re a professional football player?

LG: The first reaction that I get is “oh, really? Who do you play for? Where do you play? Are all of the teams in this area?” Etc. The whole conversation usually ends up with me telling them they should come out for a game to check it out and Dave (Lisa’s husband) bragging about how good we are and how hard we hit. Since I’m a pretty big girl, have short hair and am a firefighter, I don’t think I get the same reaction as some of the other girls. I would love to see the reactions that Kahler or Webb get.

JW: What gets you through the tough conditioning at practice?

LG: My first reaction to this question was “I have no idea.” After thinking about it for a minute, the answer is definitely the team. “If everyone else can do it so can I.” That’s my mantra I keep telling myself when we run sprints. Granted, I don’t count the people who actually like to run (smile).

JW: What drives you to succeed?

LG: I was raised that way. The word “quit” is not in my family’s vocabulary.

JW: What do you plan to do after your Siren’s career?

LG: I was thinking about taking up ice hockey. Maybe boxing.

JW: Where/how did you get your nickname?

LG: On the field some of the players call me “Bullet.” This came from my blazing speed (smile). Just kidding. Actually I have Kim (Bradshaw) and Nadine (Vela) to thank for this one. When I came on as a mid season tryout in 2001, all of the Siren’s helmets had already been given out. One of the coaches had a silver helmet that he let me use until I got a gold one, so there we have “Silver Bullet” later shortened to just “Bullet.”

JW: Do you have a “fondest” memory of playing for/with the Sirens?

LG: Every day it just gets better and better.

JW: Any funny childhood memories/stories/experiences that have made you the person/player you are now?

LG: I have always wanted to play football. When I was growing up, I used to tell my mom that I wasn’t going to go to college until they had women’s football. I guess I have to go back and finish my degree (smile). My dad has been teaching classes for the railroad all over the U.S. and at the beginning of every class, he makes sure to let his entire class know that his daughter is a professional football player and anyone not rooting for the Sirens more than likely won’t pass. He is so proud to be a football dad again. It’s a great feeling to be able to make your parents proud.

What Have You Done For Me Lately

February 13, 2003

Over the past several weeks I have had time to site back, relax, and reflect on what an awesome experience I was able to be a part of in my first season as a “professional” football player. There are not many people that can say that in their first season playing a sport their team went undefeated and won the championship. There are many that will never know what the feeling is like to play in and win a championship game. I have been so lucky and fortunate to be a part of a team that is so supportive both on and off the field. From the coaches to the owners to the players, we are both friends and family.

The Sacramento Sirens were the 2002 WAFC (Women’s Affiliated Football Conference) champions; quite an accomplishment. It is unfortunate sometimes that time does not stop so you can take full advantage of situations that bring you so much happiness. Such is life, it seems that the times that bring the most joy are also the times that disappear the quickest. I’ve often thought that I need a remote control for life so I can press pause when I want moments to last longer, rewind certain times that I never want to end, and of course fast forward those times that seem too tough to bare. This is just a meandering thought though; life will eternally be stuck on play. I must admit that during the season there were several times when I was about to get hit by someone and it felt as if everything was going in slow motion. Just like a car accident, often people see what is about to happen but there is no way to avoid it.

The Sirens have now made the transition from the WAFC to the IWFL (Independent Women’s Football League) and therefore will be playing in the Spring rather than the Fall. The IWFL is a much bigger league, with teams representing both the east and west coasts. For women’s professional football to really make its mark, eventually all the small start-up leagues are going to have to either dwindle into nothing or all teams are going to have to combine into one or two main leagues. Still in its early stages, women’s pro-football has been going through many transitions. Some cities have two or three teams because there is always someone that feels that they can run a team differently and more effectively. Luckily for us in Sacramento, we only have one team and I think that plays a role in the success we have had. Our team is not competing for players, rather, we have the best players in the area all on one team.

It was nice to be a league champion, even if it was only for a few weeks. “Sacramento Sirens, 2002 WAFC Champions” is now virtually a memory. We made history but now we are a new team in a new year joining a new league. Once again we have to go out and prove ourselves. With a strong group of rookies ready to make their mark and an outstanding group of returning players, I believe the 2003 Sirens will be more than ready for the challenges ahead.

It All Comes Down To This

December 5, 2002

I have never played in a championship game before. I am also just beginning to realize what a huge event this upcoming game is. There are actually on line chat rooms that have this game as a main topic of discussion. People from all over the U.S. have put in their two cents on who they think will win. On one hand I am a very competitive person ad the bottom line of every game has been to win. On the other hand I play because it’s fun. There are so many things in life that people (including me) stress over such as work, bills, family, etc. I have used football as a release from this stress. I guess u could say that reality has not yet set in concerning the upcoming game.

I am still thrown back when someone asks me for an autograph. I sign my name on receipts at stores or on checks to pay bills and to those recipients that means nothing. When I sign my name on someone’s program after a game it puts a huge smile on his or her face. They are so thankful and appreciative that I would take time for them. I hope they know how thankful and appreciative I am that they are out supporting us.

There are only two teams left now; Sacramento (Sirens) and Arizona (Caliente). Although we are in the same conference, it just happens that we were not able to face one another in the regular season. This means that both teams are going into the game with little idea of what to expect from the other team. Obviously we both know that our teams are strong; neither of us would have made it this far otherwise. Both teams have scored a lot and have allowed little scoring against their opponents. I truly believe that it all comes down to this; which team has more heart and desire.

People have asked how I feel about playing in the championship game; am I nervous, anxious, excited? I used to get very nervous for games. This was back in high school when to me winning a game was a matter of life or death. I also used to put a lot of pressure on myself and would get angry if I made any mistake; no matter how significant or insignificant it was. These days I think I mix anxiousness and excitement. I look forward to game days because I enjoy playing. I now realize that mistakes will happen and there is no way to avoid them. What I have learned is that you can not dwell on them either. The best thing you can do is to take a deep breath and move on; there is still a lot of game to be played. This holds true with everything in life.

No matter what happens in the game this coming weekend, this is our last few days of football for the year. After giving up virtually every Tuesday and Thursday over the past eight months for practice along with several Saturdays for games, the season is now over. What will I feel like when I wake up on Sunday morning, December 8^th. Obviously I will be tired and sore. Putting how I will feel physically aside, will I feel relieved to finally be able to have a life again? Will I miss seeing everyone out on the practice field twice a week? Will I feel sad knowing more than likely the team we have will not be the same the next time around? Will I be anxious for another season to begin? Yes I will.