Fatpickle: The Redskins...What's In A Name?

Thanks to a court ruling last week, I'm still a fan of the Washington Redskins. Not the Washington Presidents, or the Wasington Johnny Rockets, or some other name that I could never imagine.I (like most of you) have spent a lifetime bleeding burgundy and gold, singing the words "braves on the warpath" and rooting for my Skins. I've never once in my 30 years as a fan thought of the name "Redskins" as being offensive or racist. I've never heard nor said an off color or racist remark about the name. I've never heard one of the 90,000 drunken fans at Fedex field say anything derogatory about the name...even when the Redskins have a sucky day or a bad loss. In fact, I am proud of the name, proud of the team, and proud of the history and heritage of Native Americans. But who am I too voice my opinion? I'm just an ordinary white guy who can't jump and can't dance (especially when I think I can dance, usually around beer 8 or 9).

Well, I happen to be a part of a large group of people that believe that the Washington Redskins are a tribute to Native Americans. That group of people happens to include the Native Americans themselves. Yes that's right, 90% of American Indians do not find the term "Redskins" offensive in any way. Lets stop and think about this for a minute. Do you think 80 years ago the Redskins chose their team name to personally offend an entire race? Is that really how team names are chosen? No, they are chosen as a tribute to something. And without those teams that honor the American Indian, how often would we be reminded of our Native American history? I think that the people that bring on these lawsuits are only interested in what the root of all lawsuits boil down to...$money$ and notoriety.

I've been a fan of many of the names that have graced the backs of the jersey's. Monk, Riggins, Green, and Cooley to name a few. But, the names on the back of the jersey's change quite often. However, the Redskins name and the burgundy and gold is a lifetime relationship for me (and for you). Rooting for another team, or even the same team with a different name just wouldn't be right. I have to give Dan Snyder props for fighting in court and spending loads of cash to keep the tradition and history of the Redskins in tact.So hip, hip, hooray to Chief Zee, that guy on the side of the helmets, and the Indians getting to mix it up twice a year with those Cowboys. And if you find that offensive, spend the day surfing the Internet...I think there's a lot worse things you could focus on.Cheers and Hail

Valley Vikings Girls Lax = Fun

Last night I watched the Loudoun Valley Vikings girls team finish their season by winning their 19 straight game and taking the region championship. I went with Christy because her cousin Courtney is a senior on the team and we wanted to check out the action. I would just like to say that the girls at Valley are awesome. Even for a entry level observationist I would tell how smart they play the game. They had downright crazy passing skills and even with the tiny pockets they had little problem moving the ball with ease around the field. Those girls also had amazing stamina, I mean seriously, that is a shit ton of running and they never slow down. I also made some other simple notes concerning girls lacrosse as I got home from the game.

1. I would have been awesome at lacrosse. It is an great game and since moving back east I have had a blast watching it being played. A couple of the men's college teams are crazy good! And fast. It's definitely a different game watching the men play vs. women.

2. The rules to girls lacrosse is lame. It's bullshit that they can never touch each other, plus the game is stopped every minute because someone bumps someone else. A dangerous shot is a freaking joke, let the girls throw the ball around a little bit, it would make it a hell of a lot more fun. I'm sure if you gave them a helmet and pads excitement would ensue. Plus I want to see girls hit.

3. Girls never take it to the hole. They pass around all day and maybe I'm wrong, but it seems like if they would just give a little juke move or a spin move they would easily slip defenders. The girls have worse moves than I do on a football field and for anyone that doesn't know, that means none.

4. What the hell is everyone away from the ball doing during the face off. They are absolutely so ready to play, everyone in crazy stances and all. Just chill out, if you 40 yards away from the ball in the middle of the field I'm sure you will have time to react without your crouching dragon stance.

5. High school girls are hilarious. No less than 300 spy pictures were taken of me at the game. I guess it's better than signing autographs.

6. I hung out after the game and played my first catch with a lacrosse stick. It was pretty tough because the girls sticks have the little pockets, but after about 5 minutes I had it down. I can throw the shit out of the ball, just gotta keep tight control. Shave my legs, give me a little tuck, throw a wig on me and I would be and All-American.

7. The team that lost the game was more excited than the winners. I guess they were excited they held them to less than ten points, but that shit was crazy. I mean, get back on the bus and go home. I was talking to the girls on the winning team after the game and even they couldn't figure out what was going on. Weird?

8. I love dads in the stands. They yell the smartest things and make the game much more enjoyable. I can't wait the be the best asshole dad in the stands. I promise to never let any surrounding fans down. P.S. If anyone has set next to my dad in the stands at a skins game you would know what I'm talking about. I just want to follow in his footsteps. Well, maybe with just a little bit less groping and boob signing, and a little more "Open your eyes you cock sucking ref!" yelling.

TC: Drug Bust Drags DC Sports into Headlines

Steroids and sports has been one of THE topics in the news in recent years. Just a few weeks ago it was Manny and today, its our home town teams in the Nationals and Capitals. In Manny's case we all knew it was true because there was a positive drug test. This story, so far, is completely hearsay. Because let's be honest, if you were to get arrested would you immediately begin running your mouth? So that raises the real question. Do you believe this guy? And further more, what is going to happen if he starts throwing names out there?

What we do know it that the guy had a shit ton of steroids at his house. $200,000 dollars worth to be exact. Which is great for anyone who wants to get themselves in trouble with the law. Because now, Richard Thomas and his wife are staring at 10 counts of possession of anabolic steroids with intention to sell and deliver; one count of possession of a firearm in commission of a felony; 10 counts importation of anabolic steroids into state of Florida; one count of maintaining a residence for selling drugs.

Maybe this brings to the forefront of why this man would throw out the teams he allegedly dealt steroids to and the possibility that he will throw out big time names. It is like when someone is drowning, they start grabbing for anything that can get them above water. Unfortunately in Dick's case, nothing he grabs at is going to help him get though this one, it is only going to make it worse for those people he tries to involve. All we can do now is hope this is some serious bullshit. But from this quote maybe it's not.

The sheriff said when Thomas was asked whether he had sold steroids to professional athletes, he replied, " "You name the sport, and I've sold steroids to athletes who play it."

Related The Piss Man Cometh

Fishing Anniversary

This trophy blue gill is the first fish landed by me on my boat. No I am not proud to admit that today was the tenth time that I have been out on the river and this little guy was my first, although I am ecstatic that I have breached the positive fish count category. I swear I'm pretty good at catching trout, but I must be the worst bass fisherman alive.

Christy and I spent a little more than two hours on the river today and by the end I did manage my first measly bass, caught it behind a rock in the middle of the river with a little green rattle trap lure. Christy, who usually beats me on the river was skunked for the day. She did loose three lures though! Bass Pro Shops will be happy, I'll be sure to spend more money.

Also, I need to mention that today is our one year anniversary. How cool is it that my wife wanted to take me fishing. I love you baby! Now we eat year old cake!

Road Warriors from SI.com

SI: What are the gadgets you can't live without when you travel?
Chris Cooley: My laptop, an Apple MacBook.

SI: What's one tip you can share for people who travel a lot?
Chris Cooley: The hotel will do anything you want. They'll do anything you ask. You just have to ask.

SI:What's your least favorite way to travel?
Chris Cooley:I hate airplanes. I hate turbulence. It scares the s--- out of me. I'm a [wimp] when it comes to that.

SI:Do you care where you sit on a plane?
Chris Cooley:I almost always have to sit in the window seat. It bugs me if I can't look out.

SI:What's your least favorite city to visit?
Chris Cooley:Philly. I really don't like Philly. I got a cheesesteak the first time I went there, but other than that, there's just nothing exciting about Philly.

SI:What's your favorite sports venue to visit as a fan or player?
Chris Cooley:I haven't been to very many. But I'm gonna go with the Verizon Center for Capitals games.

SI:What's your favorite place to eat on the road?
Chris Cooley:Any Ruth's Chris Steakhouse. I love Ruth's Chris.

SI:What's your craziest/best travel story?
Chris Cooley:We were playing in Denver during my second season and I was trying to fit in with all the guys. Cory Raymer had an entire backpack full of mini bottles of Jack Daniels. So we got into a drinking contest on the bus. The next day I found 13 or 14 of those bottles, empty, in my bag. And this was just on the bus to the airport after a game. Before we even took off, I'm conducting the pre-flight announcements. Twenty minutes into the plane ride I'm on the floor in the aisle eating out of an applesauce container. Needless to say, I had a visit with the head coach the next morning.

SI:Which city has the most rabid fans?
Chris Cooley:Philly. We got eggs thrown at our bus when we came into town last season.

SI:What's the first thing you do when you get home from a trip?
Chris Cooley:Last year, I would watch Entourage, Californication and Dexter. It was the Showtime/HBO night, so I'd TiVo those shows and I always looked forward to watching them when I got home. I can never sleep when I get home from a trip.

SI:What's your favorite mini–bar item?
Chris Cooley:I guess beer. The truth is we don't really need to use the mini-bar. Everything is usually provided for us.

Original Article here

Tell Me Something Wednesday: That's a Wrap!

We'd waited 15 days to hear those words, crackling across 9 walkie-talkies and reverberating throughout Chris Cooley's cavernous estate—all while trying to keep an excited and growing crowd of cast, crew, and wrap party revelers quiet for the final shots.Principal photography on Ghosts Don't Exist wrapped at 7:50PM Monday night, just in time for the arriving mass of friends, family, investors, and other guests—all eager to celebrate the completion of the film we've worked so very hard on for the past few weeks. It was the culmination of a terrific concerted effort, and the beginning of the next phase of the project—post production.

Our final day of filming was a breeze, helped along by gorgeous weather and the wonderful setting of the Cooley home. Chris and Christy generously hosted our wrap party, which included a surprise sneak peek at the trailer (a rough cut created on site by editor Matt West).

We will post the official trailer here as soon as it's completed!

The night—and indeed, the entire production to date—was a huge success. There were hugs and congratulations all around, as cast and crew remembered fondly the long hours we'd invested, breathing both a sigh of relief and regret that this portion had finally reached it's end. Much like the end of a memorable school year, we all made sure we had each others' contact info, (and Facebook, of course) and collected autographs throughout the night.
For many of us, it was back to the "real world" on Tuesday—coping with the withdrawals that come with the end of an incredibly fun, rewarding production like this. But of course, this is really only the beginning. The ride has just started, and will only pick up steam as editing is completed, distribution deals are reached, and film festivals come calling—so stay tuned.

Posted by Richard Friend

More NFL Total Access

Christy made a shirt too. Pretty funny, pay close attention.

Chili Cook Off T-Shirts

About a month ago Reed Doughty to join him as a judge of the DC 101 chili cook off. He said it was a charitable event for kidney disease, which is awesome to be able to help out. Then he told me that Third Eye Blind would be there, as well as the Offspring and a few other bands that I didn't even hear because I was as excited as Sidney Crosby wearing his leather pants to a Clay Aiken concert (I guess I'm still saddened with the beating taken in game 7).

Well, Reed calls me yesterday, says the tickets are in order and all is good to go, even the back stage passes. Hell yes, back stage passes. I'm figuring that means I get to go up and sing with the band on stage (sarcasm), but maybe just one, so I decided last night that I had to have a Third Eye Blind t-shirt. Now as cool as I think TEB is, they just don't carry their shirts at Super Target. Plus, after looking at my options online, I really didn't find anything super cool. They kind of just have this lame 3b logo with a circle around it. So I decided to construct my own, much cooler version.
Off to Michaels I went and yes I am aware of how baddass Michaels Crafts is, they do have sharpies and shirts though, and bedazzlers, just in case I wanted some jewels. Success! After two hours of shirt drawing I am proud of my accomplishment. Third Eye Blind is awesome! And so is my shirt.

The concert should be bad ass. I will look forward to seeing everyone there, drinking a couple cold ones, eating some crazy chili and believe it or not, singing my ass off with the bands. Great day!

NFL Total Access

Thanks @mtj8033 and @revjtanton

Q&A Chat From NFL.com

Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
Hey, what's up. It's Chris. I'm excited to answer everyone's questions.

KJ Mahan, Lynchburg, Va 05:59 PM ET
Captain Chaos, what opposing linebacker do respect playing against the most? What have you seen from Fred Davis that makes you think he can be a big addition to this offense?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
I have two great matchups every year with DeMarcus Ware, he's an outstanding player. He has the ability to do so many different things, he's good against the run, pass and can do it all. Fred Davis came in this offseason knowing what it takes to be a pro football player. He's working very hard in the weight room and definitely understand the offense better.

Avery, Ruston, Louisiana 06:00 PM ET
Your rookie year was the same year Joe Gibbs returned to football. What was your initial impression of the way Gibbs ran practices?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
Gibbs' motto was: smart, tough, hard-nosed guys. And that's the way he ran practice. We had a quick tempo, but it was extremely physical.

Ryan Clutterbuck, Toronto, ON 06:01 PM ET
have you ever gotten in trouble for posting meeting or game plan notes on your blog?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
I've never gotten in trouble for posting anything on my blog. The only gameplan notes posted on there, were overshadowed by a penis picture, which the team was not that concerned with. The NFL had a few more concerns, though.

tony, gaithersburg 06:02 PM ET
do u think the offense will be better in the 2nd year with zorn?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
No questions asked, we'll have a better offense. It's a hard transition, even for a guy like me to make, to make adjustments to a new offense. It was even more difficult for a quarterback. We'll all be much better the second time around.

Doug Schwartz, Eddyville Oregon 06:03 PM ET
Hey Chris, I'm a high school teacher and football coach here in Oregon...I'm also a diehard skins fan! My students get extra credit when the skins win...would I be taking it too far if I painted my classroom in burgundy and gold?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
I think that you should strongly encourage the janitorial staff to paint the classrooms burgundy and gold. You should get the art classes to put Redskins logos on top.

Jesse, Washington D.C. 06:05 PM ET
Hey chris big redskins fan.How do u think Jason Campbells mindset will be for this year with all the trade rumors surronding him cuz it sounded to me that they were trying to trade him numerous times?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
Because it was so boldly discussed in the media, didn't mean that was exactly the team's intentions. Obviously there were talks and Jason was very disappointed in that, but he's definitely our guy now. He came back and showed great leadership in minicamp and is ready to have an outstanding season.

lampe21, philly 06:06 PM ET
whos the locker room clown
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
The fun thing about our locker room is that we have a bunch of guys who like to goof around. A day never goes by where I don't hear Smoot screaming about something.

David, Bristol, CT 06:07 PM ET
Hey Chris! What are some of your personal goals going into the season? and are u a videogamer?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
Obviously I always want to play my best. It's important to me to contribute to the team in any way I can. As far as goals, I just want our football team to win games. I like to play videogames a lot, but it's really the only thing that ticks me off, so I try to stay away from smashing controllers.

Wazir , Fairburn, Ga. 06:09 PM ET
Who is the most serious and most intense player on the team?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
Randy Thomas is the most serious player that I've ever been around. He's super intense.

Rahjohn, new jersey 06:11 PM ET
why are u always open, do u think that defenses just don't respect u?????????
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
It would be hard to say that I'm always open. I know that it's a different view from the TV screen than it is from the quarterback's eyes. I wish defenses had no respect for me, because I would definitely tally 20 catches a game.

Brian G, New Jersey 06:12 PM ET
Chris, I know your a rough and tough player especially over the middle, is there a team you might have a "second guess" about going over the middle or staying back and blocking?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
Never. Never bothers me to sacrifice my body for a catch. I like playing physical football. Obviously, I'm not going to complain when another team isn't as physical, but it doesn't bother me.

yansen, sergeant bluff 06:13 PM ET
should i draft you in the upcoming fantasy draft?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
To be honest. I'd put myself definitely in the top-5 tight ends, I always have the potential to have a big week. Obviously there is good value there in the fourth or fifth round.

Danyaal Mahmood, Fairfax, Virginia 06:15 PM ET
What do you think about the NFL's proposal to cut off to preseason games and to make the regular season 18 games long?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
I think it's a tough proposal. And I have to say I'm kind of two-sided on it. No one likes preseason and other than watching young players, there's not a lot of relevance to the games. But on the other hand it's tough making it all the way through the season without injuries or fatigue. So, the extra two games may be hard. All that said, if they are going to pay us accordingly for the two games, I'd rather play the two season games and get out of training camp early.

Tank, NJ 06:17 PM ET
I think Jared Cook will be better than you. What do you think?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
I do not know who Jared Cook is. Obviously, you're not a 'Skins fan. I think Paris Hilton would probably be a better sports analyst than you.

Azim, MD 06:19 PM ET
Is training camp really as boring and tiring as other players say it is?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
Yes.

Mass, Toronto 06:19 PM ET
Chris, Capitals or Penguins, who wins game 7 tonight?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
All my buddies with the Caps are going to take it. Then they're going to win the Stanley Cup. Unleash the fury!

Brett, Canada 06:20 PM ET
What happend to your sick hair
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
The hair was gone midway through the '06 season. I just like the gameday picture, so I let it roll through last year. I'm working on growing it back, right now, though. The wife doesn't appreciate it as much as everyone else.

Jim, PA 06:21 PM ET
Hey Chris, if you could catch passes from any QB in history past or present (besides J.C.) who would it be?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
John Elway, and I did get to play catch with him a month ago. I rule.

Jeff, brantford, ON 06:22 PM ET
Chris, Do you play fantasy football, and do you think it is bad for the game the way some purists do? Also, on a similar note, do you pay attention to your ratings in Madden and do you think those guys know their stuff? Thank you for doing this by the way, it's great to hear form you guys personally.
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
There's nothing about fantasy football that's bad for the game. It makes fans that much more interested in what's going on. Honestly, no players really care about it, hardly anyone plays. The guys that do it, enjoy it, but it's not that big a deal. I check out the ratings every year, but I think it's cool this year, they are going to update it every week, based on the way the player performs in the actual games. I quit playing Madden when I got beat by a nine-year old kid online.

dan snyder, md 06:25 PM ET
Do u think u deserve a raise?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
Why not? I'll always take more money. No, I'm pretty happy with my contract. I'll keep playing.

Dave, Dayton OH 06:26 PM ET
Hey Cooley, I have read a lot of posts lately that refer to Colt Brennan. A ton of skins fans out there want to see him as the starter.(Im not one of them) Does he have the potential to be a starter in the NFL or is his arm strength to much of a concern?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
No questions asked, Colt has the potential to be a starter in the NFL. He has all the qualities to get the job done. In the next couple of years, he'll get a shot somewhere.

albert haynesworth, md 06:27 PM ET
Are you scared of me at practice??
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
The first time I met Albert Haynesworth was at the Pro Bowl in 2007. I was told the game was pretty relaxed, play hard. In the first quarter we threw a pick and I slowly chased after the ball and Albert Haynesworth blindsided me. I've never been more upset.

Carlos, Nogales, Mexico 06:28 PM ET
Hi Chris, is the fantasy football ad "NFL pick me" for real? How many walls did you broke to catch that football !!! Hahahah
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
I had to punch through the sheet rock 10 different times and cut my arm all up doing the commercial. Reebok did a really good job cutting the commercial.

Adam , VA 06:32 PM ET
Hey Chris who came up with the whoel Captain Choas deal? Good luck this season
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
We were playing St. Louis in 2006. I was goofing around in the locker room with a couple of buddies. It was when Gibbs was the coach and before the game, he used to elect captains by writing their name on a white board. This particular game was the first time I had been picked as a captain. Also, there was no reason behind his captain selections, I think it was just the first three names that popped into his head. I was bet that I wouldn't go onto the field and introduce myself to all the Rams captains as Captain Chaos. I had to walk up to Orlando Pace, Marc Bulger and Torry Holt and introduce myself as Captain Chaos. They looked at me like I was crazy.

aj, newport news,virgina 06:35 PM ET
did you have fun with chuck liddel singing journey? on a side note,do you follow mma?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
I had a blast hanging out with Chuck Liddell, Brad Penny was hilarious. Steel Panther, the 80s band, was awesome. Heeeee-ooooo. I don't follow MMA.

Ricky Beachley, Frederick MD 06:37 PM ET
I like what you do with the football camps... what other charity work do you do? How can I help?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
I've done a ton of stuff lately. I started a huge education program, where I've donated over $300,000 to schools and scholarships. I've done a bunch of breast cancer stuff, which has been great. We've also done a lot of reading events for kids. As far as helping out, take advantage of opportunities in your own community.

omar, dc 06:39 PM ET
why did you pick the number 47?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
It got put in my locker when I showed up in the offseason as a rookie.

paul umbaugh, port richey, FL 06:39 PM ET
Sup Chris, What Do you think of the newcomer brian orakpo?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
He has a deep voice and lots of muscles.

jim murphy, decatur il 06:40 PM ET
what is your favorite 80s band
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
Can't say. Tough between Bon Jovi, Journey, Guns n' Roses and Madonna.

Chris, VA 06:42 PM ET
My favorite Redskin is Rypien. Who's yours?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
My favorite former Redskin is Gary Clark. Awesome dude, fun to be around, always a great guy with a lot of energy. Sonny and Sam run a close second.

andrew, kensignton md 06:43 PM ET
being from around the dc area the eastern motors commercials play all the time, and i love the one with you and alex ovi, is he really as crazy as he seems
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
Ovechkin's wild. At that photo shoot, he put five pucks through the wall, missing goals.

Mistry, silver spring, MD 06:45 PM ET
How do you think Malcolm Kelly and Devin Thomas will do this year?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
Devin looked great in the offseason, he's worked very hard. If Malcolm's knees can stay healthy, he could be an outstanding player.

Tom M, London, UK 06:47 PM ET
What's your personal favourite - beard, 'stach or clean shaven?
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
I always have to go with somewhat of a beard. I hate clean-shaven and the moustache is cool, but too ugly.

Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins
Thanks everyone, I appreciate everyone taking the time to read this. It's been fun.

NFL Total Access and Ghosts Don't Exist

Just a quick update. First, if you didn't catch Chris on NFLTA I'm sure you still have a chance considering they replay that stuff 10 times a day. Plus he will be on again tomorrow. I told him to wear a Zimmerman jersey with a Caps shirt underneath but we'll see what happens. Second, we have already told you that Chris became friends with Vikings defensive end Jared Allen at the Pro Bowl but please do this, check out Jared's website. Particularly the video section which includes footage of him killing an elk with a spear, playing guitar hero, and explaining his mullet. It is pretty funny stuff. Last, we are almost done filming our movie, Ghosts Don't Exist, and tonight the world got a little teaser of what Chris's role in the film will look like. Check it out and tell us what you think.

To see more check out this link.

Chris's Acting Debut

Repost of Richard Friend's from GDE Blog

NBC 4's Lindsay Czarniak was on hand for Chris Cooley's acting debut Tuesday night—he's playing a sheriff's deputy in what has become a most anticipated cameo appearance here in the DC area! Even the Mayor of Hamilton, VA was there to watch the Redskins star step in front of the (movie) camera for the first time, and Chris didn't disappoint. Dressed in a municipal uniform complete with an authentic, antique badge, Cooley proved to be a natural. He and fellow actor Chris Kennedy (playing "Sheriff Fuller") did a terrific job, and had a blast in the process.

As you already know, Lindsay has a cameo role in the film herself.

The production enjoyed its first break today, but is gearing up for early calls today and Friday—as the full lead cast will be filming their first scenes together. Josh Davidson will be on set tomorrow, playing the skeptic, "David Sherman." Things are heating up... ;)

For full coverage please check out www.ghostsdontexist.blogspot.com and also follow us on twitter.

Chainsaw Massacre Part 2

Kiss Cam Challenge

Coach had to follow my lead and get himself on the kiss cam. Posting both. Who's is better?

FWG: Cooley Fans Around The World PART II

If you don't already know, I'm playing football in Europe (Austria to be exact). Of all the things I've noticed and written about from across the pond (cigarettes at half-time, nude-baths, Canadian Tuxedos) one thing keeps popping up: Redskins Fans--more specifically--Chris Cooley fans.
A while back I wrote about how Jason DeGrasse found me on this site and actually came to one of my games (hes stationed in Italy). Turns out this whole "Cooley fan in Europe" wasn't an isolated event. While I don't always get the shot (taking pictures of unsuspecting strangers is generally frowned upon), I promise you there is almost too much Redskins and #47 gear floating around the European Union. What do I mean by too much?--just once I'd like to see a Bills hat (I mean, don't they send the losing team's Superbowl gear to foreign counries?)
Ah, but I digress. This past week I took full advantage of our bye week and hopped on a flight to Barcelona. Aside from enjoying the local food.......... my tour of downtown eventually led to a "No way, In Spain?!?---REALLY?"-type of moment. Sure enough, two little rugrats running around with their Redskins gear on. I had to approach them, but how do you do that (sidenote: I speak Spanish)--"Excuse me sir, I'd like to take a few pictures of your little boys and then post them on the internet. Don't make this weird....just say yes." Actually, it went down a lot like that, only my speedy onslaught of Spanish was met with, "Sorry, English only"
"Sir, I work for Chris Cooley (chances he believed me?...zero) and I do a feature on Cooley fans around the world, I know this is random but....yahh lets just get the whole family in there together...okay..." And so here you have it:

And that is my story of how the second installment of Cooley Fans Around The World came to be.