Estimated read time: 3-4 minutes
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SALT LAKE CITY — In football, the past few weeks have been focused on the NFL Combine and the various Pro Day's around the country. Athletes are tested on a myriad of subjects, including the 40-yard dash and bench press.
In 2001, Dallas Cowboys offensive lineman Larry Allen unofficially bench pressed 705 pounds, making it an NFL record had it been official. It makes sense for an NFL player to be able to accomplish such a feat, considering these athletes are the top football talent in the nation (maybe world).
However, when a high school student accomplishes such a feat, people take notice. Pilot Point High senior Matt Poursoltani managed to do just that, lifting 700 pounds in front of a large crowd at the state powerlifting meet in Texas Saturday.
Poursoltani set a new state record with his lift, beating out his last year lift of 570 pounds — that's a 130-pound improvement! The state record was previously 650 pounds. I don't know about you, but I'd be terrified to be on the other side of Poursoltani on the football field.
Ballpark's 'unique' gaming system
You thought you were going to the ballpark for a game, but little did you know, you were up for a surprise as the most entertaining game was probably found away from the field. Introducing: the "urinal gaming system."
At the Coca-Cola Park in Pennsylvania, fans of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, a Triple-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, will be introduced to the new "hands-free" gaming experience when the season starts in April.
"When a user approaches the urinal, the video console flips into gaming mode, using patented technology that detects both his presence and stream," the IronPigs website describes. "Algorithms then allow the user to engage with the screen by aiming in different directions to test their ability and knowledge. The games are 100% intuitive and custom-built to provide a unique user interface along with an easy and seamless experience."
Yes, you read that right. Not sure about it, yet? Let's continue reading:
"Upon completion (an average of over 55 seconds to published research), users will receive their score and a code to enter," the website continues. "They can view their position on the leader board or check the website to see how they stack up with the rest of that night's competition! High scores will be displayed in real-time across various videoboard displays within Coca-Cola Park."
Let's take a second to realize what was just read. Well, I guess this is an incentive to drink more beverages at the game (which also helps profits), but it still seems like a bizarre gaming system. But, look of the bright side, your high score will be displayed for all to see. Take that anonymous user UrinalKing2008!
Mr. T's shot at a goal
During the second intermission between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Calgary Flames, Mr. T was invited to take part in the puck-shooting contest. Introduced before his attempts, Mr. T said it takes "practice, practice, practice."
"Pain!" he adds. "I pity that puck!"
Mr. T's first shot is off to the left, with the next following in similar fashion. But the third shot goes right through the goalie's legs as the fans in attendance cheer him on. He may not have a TV show, but at least the fans in Chicago still love him.
Time-lapse video of the Final Four court
With March Madness resuming Thursday, it's only appropriate to see the work that goes into putting one of the courts together. The company that made the Final Four court, Connor Sport Court, began construction a year ago in Amasa, Michigan. The floor will make five stops before it is assembled in Atlanta Friday.
