Newspapers / The Guilfordian (Greensboro, N.C.) / Feb. 9, 1996, edition 1 / Page 11
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SHOUTS FROM THE CROWD How do you feel about Magic Johnson returning to play for the L.A. Lakers? "Magic should be allowed to play in the NBA. He's worked hard to stay on top of his game and if they feel that he's capable of playing in the NBA, then he should." Aaron Joslin, sophomore "I am happy that he is playing, but to be honest he is 36 years old. To make a come back seems impossible for anyone." Andrew Turnier, freshman "I don't know how I feel. I was under the impression that when you're HIV+ that you should try to live a stress-free life. The NBA is a physically demanding, stressful lifestyle. For his sake, I don't know if it's such a good idea." Wade Tomlinson, senior "I've heard various comments from students —from those that don't approve to those that think that it is a good statement to make to the public and players. Personally, I'm glad he's back. Hopefully, it will raise awareness about AIDS." Meredith McLeod, junior Basketball's Magic is Back ROB MIRCHIN sports editor Last week, the magic returned to the sport of professional basket ball. Of course, I speak of Irving "Magic" Johnson's return to the L.A. Lakers. Being a Chicago Bulls fan, I was probably more impressed by the return of Michael Jordan. I con sider Jordan to be the better player and have a poster bearing his re semblance in my room to prove it. However, I believe Johnson's re turn to be of greater symbolic value than that of Michael Jordan. Magic Johnson's return is the stuff that makes up all great sports legends. It is the story of a hero falling in weakness only to rise in strength. The hero may fall again, but that is why so many of us are captivated by the tale—it reflects on ourselves as well as Johnson. Magic Johnson brought the is sue of HIV further into the spot light making us think about the capabilities of an HIV positive person and our definition of a hero. He made us think about where we stand and why. He made us address our paranoia. February 9, 1996 I'm not sure how attitudes have changed toward HIV positive citi zens. Paranoia can take decades to be dispelled. I am glad that Magic Johnson is living his life on his own terms. He displays the kind of daily courage that I only wish I had. I have heard from newscasts that a player who comes in con tact with Johnson is more likely to get hit by a car than contract AIDS, so l am glad Johnson has returned to the game he loves. I hope Magic is careful about over-extending himself as he con tinues his career, but that is more out of concern for his well being than that of his fellow players. I hope he does not decrease the quantity of his life in an effort to increase the quality of it. Magic Johnson realizes his true legacy. It is not the two NBA championships or the Dream Team medal. It is not the limelight. In stead, Johnson has returned to the NBA so that his small children could see him play. When asked what he would think if his children did not recognize him as their fa vorite player, he said that would be all right He would always be Daddy. sports 'Take Me Out to the Ball Game' LEIGH KING staff writer "Play ball," will be heard on February 17th as the Guilford baseball team starts its 1996 sea son. According to Head Coach Rob ert Fulton, the fall season went well and much experience was gained from the non-conference games played. Pre-season has been tough for the Quakers because of the cold weather hindering practice. How ever, the team has played two in ter-squad scrimmages. WQFS presents the 4rth annual Hb Early 80's 9HK Extravaganza! Dust off those parashute pants and practice your moonwalk, while WQFS DJ's.take you back The Breakfast Club and Q*bert. February 9th @ the Depot 300 e. Washington st. Greensboro ONLY ALTERNATIVE The Guilfordian Both coaches and players feel there is much improvement over last year, although Coach Fulton feels the offense is a little weak. Third —year player Paul Ferenchick says the defense looks solid which should help take the burden off Guilford's offense. The defensive skills of Mark Slater should aid the team. Fourth—year player Marc Ricci is happy with the way the team looks. "Everyone is busting their butts and giving 110% all the time." Ferenchick said that to be a winning team the Quakers must "stay more focused as a team and never give up, regardless of the score." Coach Fulton feels the key to being the best also lies in the fact that the "pitchers have to throw strikes, and they have to pitch smart." As a pitcher, Ricci agrees with Coach Fulton and adds that "the pitching staff has to stay healthy and avoid injuries. I feel this season will be one of the best in the four years I have played for Guilford." The Quakers first home game will be against nationally ranked Mary Washington College on Feb ruary 17 at 2:00 pm. 9
The Guilfordian (Greensboro, N.C.)
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