I recently posted a veg on classic sports movie scenes, and accidentally found a site run by one of my all-time favorite sports movie subjects. I thought contacting the person might be interesting (or maybe not, I'm not sure). But anyway, I've since found three more, so here goes...
Hockey: Skate with the Hanson Brothers
Bring up Slap Shot, and one of the first things someone always mentions is the Hanson Brothers. (or maybe the Sparkle twins) Well, they're still around, still skating, and still milking the flick that made them legends. Apparently, you can hire them for appearances. I'm thinking the next Surreal Life would be a great fit. (I can't even imagine how bad Slapshot 2 is.)
Baseball: Have a catch on the Field of Dreams diamond
Yes, they did build it. And yes, people have been coming. The Field of Dreams ball field really exists, and like the brochure says, it's where fantasy and dreams can come true...awwwww. If you're ever in Dyersville, Iowa, you should 1) leave Dyersville Iowa and 2) make a pitstop on Lansing Road to experience a little bit of that Shoeless Joe magic. Oh, and pick up an "Is this heaven?" t-shirt while you're there.
Basketball: Have dinner with Bobby Plump at Plump's Last Shot
In Hoosiers, his name was Jimmy Chitwood. In real life, it's Bobby Plump. But he did sink the basket that made the 1954 Milan (not Hickory) basketball team state champs, and he's been an Indiana legend ever since. Today, Mr. Plump is an accountant, but I'm not saying you should ask him to do your taxes. Stop by Plump's Last Shot for a beer. And if you're lucky, Bobby may be in the corner, telling all about how the score was tied 30-all with ten second left.
Football: Attend a seminar given by Rudy Reutigger
This was the one I initally discovered while putting together the clips post. Rudy has got to be my all-time favorite sports movie. I swear, every time they carry that little fucker off the field I cry like a four year old. Now, it looks like he's worked those years at Notre Dame into a thriving business of corporate training and motivational speaking engagements. (I mean, I guess it's thriving. He's got a website, and all) I would actually go to one of these if he came to New York. I'd really like to meet the guy. I may even join the Rudy Club. Or I may forget the whole thing after I finish the post...I've got ADD like you read about. Anyway, check out the site, his inspirational messages are..ummm...inspiring.
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While I've never skated with the Hanson brothers, I did visit the Field of Dreams while visiting the University of Iowa. Good times were had by all. I'll try to find the picture of me in the cornfield. Or one of the "Ray Loves Annie" carving in the wooden bleachers.
Also, my mom was at a seminar where Rudy spoke. I have his autographed picture up in my basement, next to the 1992 picture of Mike and the Mad Dog my friend Kevin stole off the wall of a bar the night before my wedding. I wanted to design the living room around Rudy, but was overruled.