It's my second week as Joe's assistant, even after working with me, he still is letting me to do a column this week. Maybe not the wisest decision since its 3:15 in the morning...but here goes anyway.

In response to Mr. Phillip's article in last weeks issue: You are 100 percent right, Troy. The football team made VAST improvements last season.

As a fan, I was impressed by the changes I saw on the field. As a reporter, I was even more impressed with the changes I saw on paper. The football season was my first experience at reporting, and I made a few mistakes (like calling an extra point a field goal).

I always meant to do a football wrap-up story, comparing the past two seasons and coaching staffs, but I never got around to it. That's completely my fault, not the paper's. Like I said, I'm kind of new at this. Next season, you can count on there being one.

In other sports, the Super Bowl (or should I say "Super Boob") was good. I was following suit with Joe and my heart and going with the Panthers. My wallet, on the other hand, was screaming "PAT'S BY ONE!" What did I learn from this? No matter who I listen to, I'm wrong. So, not only did my team lose, but I'm out twenty bucks. Oh well, I borrowed that money, anyway.

Could I be any more excited about baseball season starting next week? No. Seriously, Joe is right. We've gotten along swimmingly so far, but we'll see how long that lasts if he goes after a game story. He is, in some weird way, my "boss", but you don't mess with me about baseball. To the team: I promise you won't score any points this season. (You know I love you, Cathy.)

So I hope this past week, I've proven that I have more to offer The Pacer than just my cup size. And by the way, Joe, thanks for that comment. I'll keep my comments on your 'size' to myself....for now. Go Skyhawks!