We’re in the NCAA Sweet 16 so it’s time for me to get interested. I admit I’m not a huge basketball fan, but the annual College Basketball Championship is so authentic and pure, it’s about the last true sport’s competition in this country. So now I’ll watch.
Trouble is, once I start watching, the team starts losing. I am a jinx. I do it with the Boston Red Sox too. In fact, I was so successful at jinxing my team that I was 47 before they won the World Series. I inherited this power from my Dad who died at the age of 79 without ever seeing his team win the Series, and I think he listened to every weekend game on his scratchy transistor radio that the Sox ever played. He was the father of all jinxes.
To combat my bad energy, I suggest the S.U. Orangemen drink a cup of coffee before they take on Oklahoma State tonight. I’m not kidding. This is the latest medical news, that a cup of joe one hour before a game or a run or a match, improves performance.
The effect of caffeine on strength and endurance has been studied since 1978, but now researchers at McMaster University in Canada believe they know why coffee does the trick. Caffeine increases the power of muscles by releasing calcium, which increases strength and endurance for longer periods. It seems to work on the brain too. When the brain says “it’s time to stop”, caffeine says, “keep going”! But any office worker could have told you that.
Caffeine is a tough sell among some coaches and athletes who view the drink as bad habit. But for those who give it a try, they might find this sanctioned performance enhancing substance is just the kick they need. Now, Go Orange!
Postscript: 10:00 pm. Just like I said, I jinxed ‘em. Sorry about that.
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{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
Being a fellow Red Sox fan, Is there any way I can get you to watch the Yankees?
That’s it Ken! I’ve been jinxing the wrong team!!! I think you’re onto something. M.
Maureen
Did you watch the game last night and jinx us! And apparently the coach didn’t listen to your advice. Maybe next year!
Oh I just noticed the postscript – you did it again! :>)
Yes Denise. It is entirely my fault. I should have walked the dog instead.