Sports In America with David Greene

It’s time for the 2026 NFL Draft — when all 32 teams get to pick new talent from the best college football programs across the country. Who will be the players to watch next season, and how will they help shape the future of the game? We’ll talk all of this out with Nick Baumgardner, a senior writer and NFL Draft analyst at The Athletic. Then, we’re going to sit down with DeMaurice Smith. For 14 years, he was the president of the NFL Players Association. That’s the union for professional football players. Basically, he was the guy who had to protect 300-pound dudes who are smashing into each other for a living. In his time with the union, he went head to head with NFL leaders on contentious issues like the 2011 lockout, Colin Kaepernick’s 2016 protests for racial justice, and Damar Hamlin’s near-fatal cardiac arrest on the field during a game. He unpacks these moments and more in his autobiography “Turf Wars: The Fight for the Soul of America’s Game.” Show Notes Turf Wars: The Fight for the Soul of America’s Game by DeMaurice SmithWho Won the 2011 NFL Lockout? | ForbesA timeline of the NFL’s response after Damar Hamlin collapsed | CNNPredicting 2026 Draft Picks 1-100, starting with Fernando Mendoza | The Athletic Show Credits Host: David Greene Executive Producers: Joan Isabella, Tom Grahsler Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Talent Booker: Britt Kahn Engineer: Mike Villers Tile Art: Bea Walling Theme Song: Emma Munger Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.

Shea Serrano always has perfect analogies; comparing a Ray Allen jumpshot to a violin made of butter or Sue Bird’s backpedal to a 20th-century poem. This week, with the NBA postseason tipping off, we sit down with Shea to learn how he developed his unique style of storytelling and why it feels so approachable. We’ll hear how he went from a middle school basketball coach to a five-time New York Times bestselling author and catch a glimpse inside his latest book, “Expensive Basketball.” We’ll also sit down with The Athletic’s Katie Woo to talk about what we’ve learned during the first few weeks of the baseball season and raise the question: Are we okay with franchises buying their way to the top? Show Notes A Story About Tim Duncan | Shea Serrano for The RingerSix Trophies with Shea Serrano and Jason ConcepcionExpensive Basketball | Shea SerranoGood Movie | Shea Serrano on SubstackAfter receiving World Series rings, Dodgers’ comeback victory shows why they’re favorite for another | Katie Woo Show Credits Host: David Greene Executive Producers: Joan Isabella, Tom Grahsler Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Talent Booker: Britt Kahn Engineer: Mike Villers Tile Art: Bea Walling Theme Song: Emma Munger Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.

At just 25 years old, Nah’Shon “Bones” Hyland is making a name for himself as a point guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves, going head-to-head with some of the best in the league like Steph Curry and LeBron James. This week, we sit down with Bones to relive some of his most electric performances during his rookie season, and learn how he performs so well under pressure. We’ll hear about how his tough upbringing in Wilmington, Delaware — and the sudden loss of those closest to him — motivate him to this day to excel on the court. We’ll also talk with The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski about some of the hot topics in the NBA in the runup to the championships. Show Notes The often dour Minnesota Timberwolves needed an injection of fun. Enter Bones Hyland | The AthleticFrom tragedy to exile to new life in Minnesota, Bones Hyland embraces the journey | The AthleticGolden State Warriors vs Denver Nuggets - Full Game 4 Highlights | The CCB NetworkBones Hyland shares big night with firefighters, first responders who saved him four years ago | NBCBones Hyland Rookie Mixtape | Denver Nuggets Show Credits Host: David Greene Executive Producers: Joan Isabella, Tom Grahsler Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Talent Booker: Britt Kahn Engineer: Mike Villers Tile Art: Bea Walling Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.

Last year, Shayla Smith broke Philadelphia’s all-time scoring record for girls and boys basketball. That’s a huge deal, especially in Philly — a city known for basketball legends like WNBA guard Shawnetta Stewart, South Carolina coach Dawn Staley, and NBA Hall of Famer Wilt Chamberlain. None of them scored as many points in high school as Shayla did. We sat down with Shayla and her coach, Kevin Slaughter, to hear how she became a high school phenom and changed the reputation of her high school’s basketball program. We’ll find out what it takes to score more points than anyone who came before her, and how Shayla enters a flow state on the court — and makes it look easy. We’ll also talk to Coach Jackie Johnston, known on social media for her obsession with women’s sports, to talk through what to expect at the NCAA finals this weekend. Show Notes Shayla Smith guides her team to Philadelphia Public League Championship | Rare Footage SportsHigh school basketball star Shayla Smith hopes to become first WNBA player to wear hijab | CBS PhiladelphiaPenn State Commit Shayla Smith Imhotep Charter Highlights | Rare Footage SportsShayla Smith Penn State Player Profile | ESPNFollow Coach Jackie on TikTok Show Credits Executive Producers: Tom Grahsler and Joan Isabella Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Engineer: Mike Villers Talent Booker: Britt Kahn Tile Art: Bea Walling Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.

Baseball season is officially in full swing, and with every home run robbery, oppo taco, and walk-off eruption, it feels like, even for a few hours, baseball restores our faith in humanity. But outside of the stadium, life is anything but calm. A country gripped by fear, a heightened sense of political suspicion, and athletes pulled into the discourse. Any of this sound familiar? This week, we talk with award-winning sports historian Howard Bryant to take us into the moment America asked its biggest sports hero to prove his loyalty We also sit down with Tim Lambert, a Pittsburgh sports writer, to talk about the irrational hope that all of us feel at the beginning of baseball season and ask the question on everyone’s mind: could this be our year? Show Notes ‘The most dangerous man in America’: how Paul Robeson went from Hollywood to blacklisted | The GuardianPaul Robeson Biography | PBSThe Story Behind Jackie Robinson’s Moving Testimony Before the House Un-American Activities Committee | TIMEVenezuela’s historic WBC title fueled by power, pitching — and passion | The AthleticKings and Pawns | Howard Bryant Show Credits Host: David Greene Executive Producers: Joan Isabella, Tom Grahsler Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Talent Booker: Britt Kahn Engineer: Mike Villers, Adam Staniczeski Tile Art: Bea Walling Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.

Just after the closing ceremonies of the Olympics in Milan, we sat down with Emmy award-winning commentator Bomani Jones for a special live recording. We get into FBI director Kash Patel’s locker room antics after the US men’s team won gold, why Bomani calls them the “whiter Olympics,” and we ask who gets to define America as the US gets ready to host the World Cup this summer. We also sit down with producers Paula Lavigne and Dan Arruda from ESPN’s 30 for 30 Podcasts to discuss their latest true crime series, “Murder at the U,” which investigates the killing of former Miami Hurricanes star Bryan Pata and the 20-year saga of trying to find justice for him and his family. Show Notes FBI director joins US men's hockey team celebration | ABCWhy is ICE going to the Winter Olympics in Milan | The GuardianTrump discourages Iranian soccer team from attending the World Cup, citing safety concerns | PBSThe Right Time with Bomani Jones PodcastIntroducing: Murder at the U | 30 for 30 PodcastsShow Credits Host: David Greene Executive Producers: Joan Isabella, Tom Grahsler Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Talent Booker: Britt Kahn Engineer: Mike Villers, Adam Staniczeski Tile Art: Bea Walling Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.

The National Women’s Soccer League kicks off its regular season with games all over the country. So this week, we sit down with one of the biggest stars to ever play, Carli Lloyd. Carli is a two-time World Cup Champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist, and Hall of Famer. Her talent on the field is undeniable, but the media has long misunderstood her. We’re going to unpack her 17 years as a professional to learn about the unrelenting hard work that got her to the international stage and the sacrifices she made to stay there. We’ll also hear from Meg Linehan, the women’s sports lead at The Athletic, who believed in Carli when nobody else did. Meg gives us a preview of what to expect from the NWSL this season, who the key players are to watch, and answers the question, has women’s soccer in the US finally arrived? Show Notes Women's World Cup Final: USA vs. Japan - FIFA Women's World Cup 2015 Highlights | FOX SoccerStone Cold Weirdo Carli Lloyd Leads U.S. Into World Cup Final | VICE‘Beast,’ ‘weirdo,’ choker, winner: World Cup star Carli Lloyd is bundle of contradictions | Washington Post#ThankYouCarli - Carli Lloyd Career Highlights | U..S. SoccerCarli Lloyd was estranged from her family. How the postponed Olympics healed a 12-year rift | TODAY Show Credits Host: David Greene Executive Producers: Joan Isabella, Tom Grahsler Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Talent Booker: Britt Kahn Engineer: Mike Villers, Adam Staniczeski Tile Art: Bea Walling Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.

Claressa Shields is one of the most decorated female boxers ever. She’s a two-time Olympic gold medalist and is the only boxer — male or female — to hold undisputed titles in three separate divisions. She’s also currently undefeated. But for Claressa to climb to the top, she had to face her toughest opponent yet: her past. This week, we relive Claressa’s historic journey to her first Olympics, learn how she finally let go of resentment, and find out what it takes to become a champion. We’ll also check in with Andreas Hale, a combat sports reporter at ESPN. With Floyd Mayweather’s recent announcement that he’s coming out of retirement, Andreas helps answer the question: How old is too old to compete? Show Notes The Fire Inside 2012 Women’s Middleweight Final | OlympicsClaressa Shields fighting for gender equality for women’s boxers | CBS NewsClaressa Shields: From poverty and abuse to boxing greatness | BBC SportMayweather to unretire, resume boxing after Tyson exhibition | ESPNShow Credits Host: David Greene Executive Producers: Joan Isabella, Tom Grahsler Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Talent Booker: Britt Kahn Engineer: Mike Villers, Adam Staniszewski Tile Art: Bea Walling Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.

The fictional TV show Heated Rivalry was an overnight sensation — raking in more than 10 million streams for each of its six episodes. It follows two rival professional hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rosanov, whose public feud hides their secret, years-long romantic relationship. The show is fun, and it also raises a larger question: How welcoming is the NHL to LGBTQ athletes and fans? This week, we sit down with Harrison Browne, an actor on the show, and the first person ever to come out as trans in professional hockey. He tells us all about his role in Heated Rivalry, what it’s like to come out and compete as a pro athlete, and whether he felt supported. We also hear from Julian McKenzie, an NHL staff writer at The Athletic, about the upcoming playoffs — and whether he thinks the buzz from the show could actually change the culture in the pros. Show Notes ‘Heated Rivalry’ Easter Egg: This New Character Is Actual LGBTQ+ Hockey History | themLet Us Play | Harrison Browne, Rachel Browne‘Heated Rivalry’ inspired me to come out as gay | BBCThe Truth About Trans Athletes in Sports with Harrison BrowneHit show ‘Heated Rivalry’ became a TV phenomenon. Can it change hockey culture? | Julian McKenzie for The AthleticShow Credits Host: David Greene Executive Producers: Joan Isabella, Tom Grahsler Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Talent Booker: Britt Kahn Engineer: Mike Villers Tile Art: Bea Walling Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.

This year's Winter Games are wrapping up, and while many athletes are still buzzing from the thrill of performing on the world's largest stage, what actually happens to an Olympian’s mental health when the limelight moves on? For freeskier Nick Goepper, after the US Men’s Team swept the slopestyle podium at the 2014 Sochi Olympics, it seemed like he’d ride that high forever. But when the television appearances and sponsorships slowed to a stop, he was left to wonder, what’s next? This week, Nick tells us about the realities of the post-Olympic depression so many athletes face, his journey to recovery, and how he’s changed his preparation for Milan. We’ll also hear from Olympic runner Alexi Pappas to get her take on this year’s Games and how she’s tackled similar challenges. Show Notes Olympian Nick Goepper’s Comeback | HuffPost3x Olympic Medalist Goepper Retires From Freeskiing | US Ski and Snowboard Nick Goepper | My New Favorite OlympianNick Goepper Podium Run | US Ski and SnowboardMentor Buffett | Alexi Pappas Show Credits Host: David Greene Executive Producers: Joan Isabella, Tom Grahsler Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Talent Booker: Britt Kahn Engineer: Mike Villers Tile Art: Bea Walling Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.

Alysa Liu has been considered a figure skating prodigy ever since she was a kid. When she was just 12 years old, she was the youngest U.S. woman to land a triple axel in a competition. Then at 13, she became the country’s youngest World Champion ever. But in 2022, right as Alysa was at the height of her career, she quit the sport altogether and retired at 16. She didn’t set foot in a rink for nearly two years, until a family ski trip reminded her just how much she loved the sport. Now she’s competing in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy — and she’s looking like one of the favorites to win gold. If she medals at all, she’d be the first U.S. woman to do it in 20 years. In this episode, we hear from Alysa on what it’s like to be a child athlete competing at an elite level, what brought her back to the rink, and how she’s taking ownership of her career. We also discuss Alysa’s chances and her competition with senior correspondent at The Athletic Marcus Thompson, who’s covering women’s figure skating at the Olympics. Show Notes Alysa Liu 2025 World Championships | Skating ISUAlysa Liu left figure skating behind. She came back better than ever | The GuardianAlysa Liu Fell in Love With Skating All Over Again — And Is Now a World Champion | Sports Illustrated14-year-old Alysa Liu makes history again at 2020 Nationals I NBC SportsAlysa Liu back on the Olympic stage, this time truly herself | Marcus Thompson for The Athletic Show Credits Host: David Greene Executive Producers: Joan Isabella, Tom Grahsler Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Talent Booker: Britt Kahn Engineer: Mike Villers Tile Art: Bea Walling Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.

As we get ready for Super Bowl LX, we sit down with one of the greatest football players to never win a Super Bowl. Larry Fitzgerald is an 11-time Pro Bowler who spent his 17-year career with the Arizona Cardinals. His first and only shot at a title was in 2009 when his team lost a squeaker to the Pittsburgh Steelers. In this episode, we relive all the key moments of that fateful game with the star wide receiver, who shares what it feels like to be so close to winning it all, only to have the opportunity snatched away in the final seconds. Plus, we sit down with The Athletic’s Madeline Hill and Charlotte Wilder to break down this year’s matchup between the Patriots and Seahawks. Show Notes Fitz Four: Super Bowl Versus Steelers | Arizona CardinalsLarry Fitzgerald: If a loved one has cancer, know there’s power in your presence | The AthleticLarry Fitzgerald: Best Hands in NFL History Career Highlights! | NFL LegendsThe Sports Gossip ShowThe Larry Fitzgerald FoundationShow Credits Executive Producer: Tom Grahsler Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Talent Booker: Britt Kahn Engineer: Mike Villers Tile Art: Bea Walling Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.

Tom Coughlin’s first Super Bowl was one of the most famous games in NFL history. It pitted the New York Giants, considered massive underdogs at the time, against the New England Patriots, who hadn’t lost a game all season. To many people, the Giants seemed doomed from the start. But Coughlin and his team showed that with discipline and determination, anything was possible. Tom Coughlin is a three-time Super Bowl Champion, NFL Coach of the Year, and, more recently, a 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame semifinalist. But perhaps the most important title he’s had is that of caregiver to his wife Judy, who passed away in November 2022 after a long battle with a rare brain disorder. In this episode, Coach Coughlin talks us through that first Super Bowl with the Giants. We learn about his meticulous old-school style of coaching and how staying by his wife’s side in her final days changed his perspective on success. Show Notes Super Bowl XLII Helmet Catch | NFL(Patriots vs. Giants 2007, Week 17) | NFL Throwback Nothing Could Prepare Me for Watching My Wife Slip Away | Tom Coughlin for NYTTom Coughlin, You Had Me At Hello… | Bleacher ReportTom Coughlin Jay Fund Show Credits Host: David Greene Executive Producers: Joan Isabella, Tom Grahsler Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Talent Booker: Britt Kahn Engineer: Mike Villers Tile Art: Bea Walling Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.

Andrew Whitworth is an NFL legend. A four-time Pro Bowler, he played for 16 seasons into his 40s, then retired as the oldest tackle in NFL history. He was known not just for his skill on the field and his longevity — but also widely recognized for his character, and his charity work in his personal life. In this week’s episode, we sit down with Andrew to hear everything he learned from his 16 seasons in the NFL, like how to sweet-talk the defenders he was up against, and how the game helped him learn to take care of himself and the people around him. Show Notes Andrew Whitworth Mic'd Up For Super Bowl LVI Win vs. BengalsAndrew Whitworth is the Walter Payton Man of the Year | NFL HonorsLook: Rams O-linemen training together in Andrew Whitworth's garage | RamsWireLos Angeles Rams left tackle Andrew Whitworth retires after 16 NFL seasons, goes out on top | ESPNInside Matthew Stafford's no-look pass to Kupp in Super Bowl LVI | 'America's GameShow Credits Host: David Greene Executive Producers: Joan Isabella, Tom Grahsler Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Talent Booker: Britt Kahn Engineer: Mike Villers Tile Art: Bea Walling Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.

Benjamin Watson spent 16 seasons in the NFL as one of the league’s most reliable tight ends. He was known for being a model teammate, always willing to do the dirty work of blocking in the trenches just as much as catching touchdown passes. Not as well known is the perfectionism and self-doubt he struggled with throughout his time in the league. When the Patriots won the Super Bowl his rookie year, the injured Watson refused to wear his ring because he felt he hadn’t earned it. In this episode, we hear about his challenges with mental health, his passion for faith and family, and how he became a fierce advocate for social justice after a prolific career. Show Notes 15 years ago today: Ben Watson tackles Champ Bailey at 1 yd line after 100 yard interception | PatriotsNFL Player Benjamin Watson Reflects on Ferguson in Viral Facebook Post | NBC NewsBenjamin Watson: How to Stay Focused in Fatherhood Watson | Pressure, Identity and Faith Inside the NFL The Just Life with Benjamin Watson Show Credits Host: David Greene Executive Producers: Tom Grahsler and Joan Isabella Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Engineer: Mike Villers Tile Art: Bea Walling Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.

For many athletes, it’s their worst nightmare: getting an injury that could end their season — or even their career. In this episode of Sports in America, we sit down with two star athletes who’ve competed through painful moments. Robert Griffin III, or RGIII, had one of the most promising rookie campaigns in NFL history — but got injured soon after he made his debut. And in an attempt to lead the Washington Mystics to victory, two-time WNBA MVP Elena Delle Donne played through three herniated discs, a broken nose, and a knee injury. What’s the line between a heroic performance in the game, and the risk of permanent damage to an athlete’s body? And in the end, who’s responsible for protecting a player from themselves? Show Notes Outta Pocket with RGIII Podcast Robert Griffin Dominates the Cowboys on Thanksgiving Day | NFL HighlightsMike Shanahan: James Andrews cleared Griffin to play, but doctor disagrees | USA TodayThe Best Of Elena Delle Donne (WNBA Finals 2019) | WNBAFamily comes first for Delle Donne, even during WNBA championship run | ESPNElena Delle Donne listens to body, announces retirement | ESPN

Kareem Rosser was just eight years old when his brothers stumbled across the Chamounix Stables in a Philadelphia park. That wrong turn would change his life forever. In 2011, he captained the first all-Black team to win the National International Scholastic Polo Championship. Today, we learn all about the sport of competitive polo, which is less genteel than it looks. It’s almost like a mix of ice hockey and NASCAR. Kareem opens up about the whiplash of traveling from the rough neighborhood where he grew up to the Hamptons and back in a weekend. He also talks about how he uses the tragedies he’s experienced to drive his passion to help others. Show Notes A behind-the-scenes look at Philadelphia’s inspiring Work to Ride Program | Ralph LaurenA Polo Primer: Lessons From a Pro | WSJWhy I Play': Dominating polo while being black | The UndefeatedRide to the Olympics CEO on increase in Black polo players: 'We break barriers' | ABC NewsWhen You're Ready: A Love Story | Kareem Rosser Show Credits Host: David Greene Executive Producers: Joan Isabella, Tom Grahsler Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Talent Booker: Britt Kahn Engineer: Mike Villers Tile Art: Bea Walling Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.

Last week, we heard from former Tampa Bay Buccaneers center Ryan Jensen about how going pro was never supposed to happen to him; that dream was his brother Seth’s. This week, we sit down with Seth to talk about his own rugged athletic career, cut short by injury. We hear the highs of being a 5-star recruit, the lows of when the game was taken away from him, and how this all tested the bond between brothers. Show Notes Seth Jensen Athlete Profile | University of Nebraska- LincolnRyan Jensen: My Life as an NFL Offensive Lineman | CBSBack home in Colorado, the Bucs’ Ryan Jensen is still inspired by his family | The AthleticRetired Buccaneers Center Ryan Jensen Finds Post-NFL Purpose Alongside A Former D2 Rival | Forbes

Ryan Jensen made a name for himself as a center for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with quarterback Tom Brady. But even as he looks down at his Super Bowl ring, Ryan knows: None of this success was supposed to happen to him. It was supposed to be his brother’s. When Ryan was a kid, his older brother Seth was the one who seemed destined for greatness in the NFL. It caught everyone by surprise when Ryan got there instead. Over the next two episodes, we’re bringing you a story about family, expectations, and the times when fate has something else in mind. What happens when two brothers seem to switch places, and their destinies shift in a way that shocks their family, friends, and each other? Show Notes Back home in Colorado, the Bucs' Ryan Jensen is still inspired by his family | The AthleticRams vs. Buccaneers Divisional Round Highlights | NFL 2021Tampa Bay's Ryan Jensen is the game's best center — and one of its most relentless players | ESPNRyan Jensen on Tom Brady: He Expects Perfection | Tampa Bay Buccaneers Press ConferenceRyan Jensen Career Stats | ESPN

Nattie Neidhart is part of the legendary Hart family that produced professional wrestling greats, like Bret and Owen Hart. But none of the women in her family wrestled professionally. That is, until Nattie came along. This week, we talk to Nattie about her new memoir, “The Last Hart Beating.” She shares stories from her decades-long career in the WWE, how her family dealt with the tragic loss of her uncle in a wrestling accident, and why her legacy is more than what we see on TV. We also ask the question that wrestling skeptics have always wondered: If the results of a match are predetermined, can we even call it a sport?