SPORTS. Know the score? Contact the editor at sports@theotherpress.ca You arent what you wear Jersey critics need to take a moment Eric ( Wilkins Sports Editor i sporis@iheotherpress.cq. ’ve never understood, and likely never will understand, people who criticize sports jerseys. I’m not talking about the common man who simply comments with a, “Not my favourite”; I’m talking about those who completely rag on a design. Tear it to shreds. Say what a terrible disgrace it is for any athletic organization to take to the fight with that abomination on their back... uh, guys? It’s a jersey. Jersey critics fall into a funny category for me. They care about sports enough that they’re aware of traditions, history, and past designs, but they place such an overwhelming importance on superficial issues that they can’t possibly be real supporters. Basically, they’re Vancouver Canuck fans (hey, we were all thinking it). Don’t get me wrong, I like a good- looking uniform as much as the next person. But if it’s ugly as sin I’m not going to raise a ruckus like the world is ending. Case in point: Canada’s Sochi 2014 jerseys. All three—the red, the white, and a black—look fine to me. Anything special? Not really. But again, who really cares? The naysayers were quick to point out the resemblance to the Petro-Canada logo and how Nike totally tanked on the red and white unis, but it was the black that really evoked a reaction. Many have commented or tweeted about how the jersey is a little too Nazi for their tastes. While it’s usually no laughing matter when such a sensitive issue is brought up, this should evoke a slight grin, or at least humorous cringe, from everyone. It’s the classic overreaction—a rapid escalation—from a tame comment. It’s George Costanza’s, “Yeah? Well I had sex with your wife!” If you’re really trying to find fault with the design you can see where they’re coming from, but it’s still a reach. A red armband on a black jersey. Forgive me if countless atrocities weren’t the first thing that popped into my head when I saw it. In case it was missed in the kerfuffle, all three jerseys feature armbands. And all three also have some sort of Canadian insignia on them. From my non-critic view, I thought the black was the classiest of the three. In the end, there will always be oversensitive people who cry bloody murder at the slightest hint of controversy. Likewise, there will always be trailblazers who continually test boundaries. This case is a bit of both, though mostly the former. The jersey very obviously isn’t a tribute to a dark force in the world’s history; however, such concerns were voiced prior to its release when photos were leaked. If Nike and Hockey Canada really wanted to avoid comments such as, “Just saying, Canada, last time a bunch of guys with one armband tried to go deep into Russia, it didn’t work out too well for them,” (@ jessespector), they could have. Go Canada. Or whatever. Andrew squared Ihe men behind the net Courtnie Martin Sports Reporter A the men’s volleyball team approached its season opener, Coach Brad Hudson announced two of his returning players as captains: fifth year Andrew Robson and fourth year Andrew McWilliam. It was unanimously predicted that Andy and Andy would lead the Royals to a hopefully victorious season. The two don’t just share the same first name; they also share the same values, morals, and mentality on the court. Off the court, however, it’s a different story. Born in a small town outside of Dutton, Ontario, McWilliam grew up a farm boy with three older brothers. Family has always been extremely important to him. Their love and support followed him to his first college, the University of Guelph, Andrew Robson and Andrew McWilliam Photo courtesy of Courtnie Martin 18 where he played and attended school for two years. After “Mac” took a year off from the game, he decided that his passion had not seized and he needed to get back on the floor. He then brought his talents to Douglas, where he helped the squad to a very successful season. Moving across the country came with many trials and tribulations, but he came to realize he wasn’t alone. Though he was far away and missed home, he still had that which was so important to him here at Douglas: family, albeit a new one. As his own confidence and comfort continues to grow, so does the team’s and its chemistry. Recognizing the need fora strong influence, Mac was determined to be just that, earning a position as a First Team All-Star. As he works towards his Sports Science diploma, specializing in kinesiology, he has an equally great commitment to lead the Royals to another successful season. Alongside him, sharing captain responsibilities, is his good friend Andrew Robson. Robson grew up in Ladner, British Columbia, where he attended Delta Secondary School. He later headed to Douglas, where he became a huge contributor to one the team’s most successful seasons. Robson, also known as “Andy,” is finishing up his last year at Douglas and is pursuing his Bachelor of Physical Education and Coaching (BPEC), with aspirations of becoming a PE and Biology teacher. Off the court, Robson simply can’t get enough of sports, whether it’s sitting in front of the tube or playing beach volleyball during his off-season. As he nears his final season of college volleyball, he continues to find motivational opportunities to enhance his abilities as a leader and a captain. “The team is the youngest it’s been in a long time. It took a little getting used to for me. It was tougher than I expected. Sometimes you forget how much of an influence you have on the younger guys,” says Robson. Coach Hudson was very proud to name his captains. He commended them on their hard work and commitment to the team. Lucas DeCoste had very similar opinions on his teammates: “Andy and Mac are both great players. They bring a ton of experience and leadership to our team. Andy has been a leader on this team for a few years now, so he’s a vocal force. Mac brings CIS experience, passion, and a wild arm.”