Spitz has been ALL over the place in terms of his comments on Phelps, too. I remember reading articles recently where he stated that he didn't think Phelps would be able to top his 7 golds ...
As for Crocker I find him VERY likeable. I'd love to see him go a 50 point low in finals and then a 49 at the games for the win. He seems like the greatest guy.
I think Crocker is a very likable guy. He (and Peirsol, Walker, Hansen) are active in Austin and great supporters of local swimmers - regardless of who they swim for.
As for Spitz - I think he is still a very proud man - and not the most graceful talker. I do think he knows better than anyone what kind of pressure, internal and external, Phelps feels as he prepares for Beijing. I'm finishing the new Spitz biography and I think Spitz was an intense and immensely gifted athlete. I think he is challenging Crocker to step up and swim to his ability on the big stage.
For those that say we should lay off the athletes - for many - YES. But the veterans, the professionals, the media seekers there is no reason for us to treat them especially gently. The public and the media will take their cues based on the athlete's character.
Spitz has been ALL over the place in terms of his comments on Phelps, too. I remember reading articles recently where he stated that he didn't think Phelps would be able to top his 7 golds ...
As for Crocker I find him VERY likeable. I'd love to see him go a 50 point low in finals and then a 49 at the games for the win. He seems like the greatest guy.
I think Crocker is a very likable guy. He (and Peirsol, Walker, Hansen) are active in Austin and great supporters of local swimmers - regardless of who they swim for.
As for Spitz - I think he is still a very proud man - and not the most graceful talker. I do think he knows better than anyone what kind of pressure, internal and external, Phelps feels as he prepares for Beijing. I'm finishing the new Spitz biography and I think Spitz was an intense and immensely gifted athlete. I think he is challenging Crocker to step up and swim to his ability on the big stage.
For those that say we should lay off the athletes - for many - YES. But the veterans, the professionals, the media seekers there is no reason for us to treat them especially gently. The public and the media will take their cues based on the athlete's character.
