The Moonlight Graham Show

In this episode of the Moonlight Graham Show, we turn our focus to a special kind of underdog – the often overlooked yet crucially important football kicker. Our guest, Keith Duncan, a former Iowa walk-on kicker known for his game-winning field goal against Nebraska, joins us to share his unique perspective on the sport. The inspiration for this episode struck as I watched the recent Iowa vs. Nebraska football game, witnessing another walk-on kicker step into the spotlight under immense pressure. It brought back memories of Keith's own dramatic experience, making him the perfect guest to discuss the intricacies and pressures of the role. Keith, now a colleague of mine, provides insider insights into the Iowa football season, including his thoughts on the Hawkeyes' performance and their chances in the upcoming Big Ten Championship game against Michigan. His reflections on the role of a kicker in football are particularly enlightening. In a sport often defined by physicality and machismo, the kicker, sometimes a smaller, less conspicuous player, can carry the weight of an entire team's hopes on their shoulders. Our discussion with Keith is not just about kicking field goals; it's about the mental and physical demands of the role, the journey of a walk-on player, and the singular moments when games – and sometimes entire seasons – hinge on one kick. Having previously hosted other notable kickers like Nate Kading and Billy Cundiff, Keith Duncan's addition to our roster of guests brings another layer of depth to understanding this critical position. This episode is sure to appeal not only to Iowa fans but to anyone intrigued by the nuances of college football and the stories of unsung heroes who emerge in the most pressure-filled moments. Join us for a compelling conversation with Keith Duncan, a moonlighter whose story captures the essence of precision, pressure, and the pivotal role of the kicker.

On this episode of the Moonlight Graham Show, we're bringing back a true original, one of our very first guests who embodies the underdog spirit, Jack Brownlee. As the pivotal point guard who led Fort Dodge St. Edmond to a historic state championship victory in 2000, Jack is no stranger to overcoming odds and exemplifying what it means to be a Moonlighter. Jack's journey from high school legend to a passionate advocate for the love of the game is as inspiring as it is instructive. After a notable performance at Kirkwood Community College, he walked on to the University of Iowa team, contributing to some of the most memorable Hawkeye squads of the era. Today, Jack's love for basketball hasn't waned but has transformed into a dedication to nurturing young talent. In our conversation, we explore Jack's innovative approach to youth sports with 'Basketball Buddies'—a grassroots initiative aimed at kindling a love for basketball in kids within a fun, unstructured environment. Jack is tackling the increasingly competitive world of youth sports with a focus on enjoyment and skill development rather than the pressures of travel leagues. Moreover, this episode delves into the delicate balance of parenting and coaching in today's sports landscape. How do you, as a parent or coach, resist the pull of the travel sports trend while still providing the best opportunities for development? Jack shares his insights and experiences, drawing parallels between his own upbringing in sports and his vision for his son and other young athletes. Join us as we chop it up with Jack Brownlee, discussing hoops, parenting, coaching, and how to cultivate a genuine love for sports in the next generation without succumbing to the pitfalls of early specialization. This episode is not just for sports enthusiasts but also for parents and coaches seeking a mindful approach to youth sports and development. Enjoy a heartfelt discussion with Jack Brownlee, a Moonlighter making a difference both on and off the court.

This week on the Moonlight Graham Show, we're reconnecting with a guest whose story captures the essence of athletic versatility and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Sean Johnson, a towering former baseball player turned World Long Drive competitor, joins us to discuss his incredible ascent in the sport of long drive golf. Sean's athletic prowess first shone on the baseball diamond, where he claimed a junior college national championship with Iowa Western and hurled pitches for Ole Miss in the SEC before dipping into the minor leagues. When we last spoke to Sean a year and a half ago, he was at the beginning of his transition from the ballpark to the tee box – a move that intrigued and excited us. Since that conversation, Sean's trajectory has been nothing short of meteoric. From consistently placing in the top ten to challenging the elite in the sport, Sean has proven his mettle against some of the most powerful athletes in long drive competitions. His recent near-victory at the World Long Drive Championships, where he finished as runner-up to the renowned Kyle Berkshire, cements his status as a formidable force in the sport. In this episode, Sean shares the details of his journey over the past 18 months, the rigorous training that propelled him to the top, and the electrifying experience of competing at the highest level, coming tantalizingly close to clinching the world championship title. We also delve into the colorful and adrenaline-fueled world of long drive competitions – a spectacle that combines the raw power of weightlifting, the flair of WWE, and the precision of golf. Listeners will get an inside look at what it's like to stand on the precipice of becoming a world champion, the dedication required to excel in such a niche yet rapidly growing sport, and the fascinating blend of athleticism and showmanship that defines the long drive. Sean's story is a testament to what it means to be a Moonlighter – a relentless underdog striving for the pinnacle of success. Tune in for an inspiring episode with Sean Johnson, where we not only celebrate his recent achievements but also eagerly anticipate the moment we can call him a world champion. Follow his journey, cheer on his powerful drives, and become part of the growing community of fans supporting a fellow Moonlighter reaching for new heights.

This week on the Moonlight Graham Show, we delve into the story of Brady Ross, a former Iowa Hawkeye fullback whose journey and character perfectly capture the essence of what this show and Iowa Hawkeye football are all about. Ross, who joined the Iowa program as a walk-on and transitioned from linebacker to fullback, truly embodies the role-player spirit. During his four years starting, Ross's stats might not jump off the page - with only 13 carries, 25 total yards, a touchdown, and seven receptions - but his commitment and selflessness speak volumes about his dedication to the team. Renowned for putting the team's needs above his own and being a consistent and reliable blocker, Ross's contributions extend beyond traditional stats, making him an ideal guest for our show. Though he might not be a headline-maker, his impact on the Hawkeye football program is undeniable, as he's even caught the attention of national platforms like Barstool Sports. Contrary to initial expectations of Ross being a stereotypical "football bro," the interview reveals a different side. Ross surprises with his thoughtful, intelligent perspectives, offering more than just football insights. His background from Humboldt, Iowa, close to Fort Dodge, adds to his relatable, down-to-earth personality. The timing of the episode is particularly relevant, considering the recent developments with Iowa's offensive coordinator, Brian Ferentz. Ross provides an insider's perspective, defending the Hawkeye program and offering insights that regular fans and commentators might overlook. His interview not only sheds light on his experiences within the offense but also eloquently defends the coaching and the program's direction. Brady Ross's story is a testament to the underdog spirit, encapsulating the Moonlight Graham Show's mission to highlight those who make significant contributions in less visible roles. His journey from walk-on to a key player in a top college program, his approach to the game, and his ability to articulate a player's perspective on the broader aspects of college football, make this episode a must-listen for fans seeking a deeper understanding of the game and the people who play it.

On this week's episode of the Moonlight Graham Show, where we spotlight the unsung heroes and unforgettable tales of sports, we're thrilled to bring you a story of resilience, talent, and dreams. Meet Peter Jok: an Iowan with roots in Sudan, a basketball prodigy, and now, an Olympic hopeful. Peter's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Hailing from the tumultuous backdrop of Sudan, which experienced decades of civil unrest, Peter and his family found refuge in Des Moines, Iowa. From a newcomer who had never held a basketball, he transformed into one of the top high school recruits in the nation, eventually leading the Hawkeyes and the entire Big 10 in scoring. Despite narrowly missing out on the NBA and spending time in the G League, Peter's talent took him to international courts, playing professionally overseas. The highlight? Representing the newly formed country of South Sudan in global competitions, including a stellar performance in the World Cup of Basketball, where he shot an astounding 68% from the three-point line. As he gears up for the Olympics in Paris, Peter stands as a testament to determination and talent. In a heartwarming chat, Peter talks about sports as a unifier, his experience returning to his roots, and his dreams of still making it to the NBA. The episode also ponders a fascinating question: Is Peter Jok the best Iowan basketball player to have never played in the NBA? Dive into this engaging discussion, enjoy the insights, and, as always, celebrate the underdog stories that make sports so captivating. Don't miss out on Peter Jok's incredible journey!

Today, the pod delve into one of the most baffling sports records ever witnessed: the Minnesota Twins' staggering 18-game postseason losing streak spanning 19 years across eight postseason appearances. Remarkably, this streak stands unmatched in the annals of American professional sports history. For context, the Detroit Pistons hold the NBA's longest losing streak with 14 straight postseason defeats, putting the Twins' plight into stark perspective. What's even more perplexing? The Twins haven't fielded mediocre teams during this period. They've showcased MVPs, Cy Young winners, Batting champions, and Hall of Famers, from Johan Santana and Joe Mauer to Jim Thome and Torii Hunter. As we approach the 2023 postseason, we dive deep into the factors and emotions behind this unprecedented streak, with a hopeful heart that this might just be the year the Twins reverse their fortunes. By the end, you might just find yourself donning the Twins' colors and rooting for their redemption. Join us on this emotional roller-coaster ride!

Driving straight into golf's heartland, the Moonlight Graham Show tees up an unexpected tale where Iowa takes center stage in the golfing world. Drawing on these unexpected links, Tim delves deep into the significant Iowa presence in two of golf's most esteemed events: the Ryder Cup and the Walker Cup. Despite its seemingly unimpressive golfing history, Iowa has managed to leave an indelible mark this year with Zach Johnson, arguably the state's finest golfer, captaining the Ryder Cup team. In a twist of fate or perhaps sheer talent, Mike McCoy, a Des Moines local, headed the Walker Cup's U.S. team earlier this year against Great Britain and Ireland. Against the backdrop of golfing giants, how did two Iowans land such prestigious roles in the same year? Unearth the answer, savor some golf trivia, and get a unique perspective on the state's golfing narrative in this episode. And as the Ryder Cup action unfolds, root for the Americans and perhaps, for that little slice of Iowa making its mark on the world stage.

Once a rare novelty, vanity plates have become increasingly ubiquitous, especially in the heart of Des Moines. In a region divided by the fierce Cy-Hawk rivalry, the vehicular battle is real, with Hawkeye and Cyclone fans using their cars as an extension of their team pride. This pod isn't just about numbers and letters on reflective aluminum, though. It's about the evolving culture, regional identities, and the amusing ways in which our sports loyalties manifest in everyday life. After weeks of research, this episode promises a lighthearted look at a unique phenomenon in Iowa. Buckle up and join us as the Moonlight Graham Show takes a detour into the world of vanity license plates.

This week on the Moonlight Graham show, we shine the spotlight on one of Iowa's most distinguished high school baseball coaches - Michael Barta. Not even 40 and already a name to reckon with, Barta has led teams to an impressive five state championships. Our discussion dives deep into Barta's monumental achievement of turning Johnston High School, a large public institution, into a powerhouse of baseball. In an age where high schools emphasize sports like basketball and football, Barta's accomplishment stands out. Under his guidance, Johnston is not just thriving in high school baseball but setting standards so advanced that colleges seek to emulate. Trusty co-host, Tom Griffin, adds layers of camaraderie to the discussion, having had his own coaching endeavors with Barta. As they inaugurate the new MGS podcast studio, the trio delves into Barta's strategies, the rapid build of the program, and explores the future for someone who's already reached such pinnacles at a relatively young age. A blend of personal insights, professional achievements, and a hint of nostalgia makes this a must-listen for fans of the pod and anyone interested in the captivating world of high school baseball. Dive in to discover more about the dynamic Michael Barta and his indomitable spirit.

In this episode of the Moonlight Graham Show, we're thrilled to welcome back one of our most beloved Moonlighters, Big Ben Meyer, affectionately known as "Mr. Grandview." A fan favorite from the early days of the podcast, Ben returns to share his unique and often amusing insights. With Iowa and Iowa State week in full swing, Tim and Big Ben dive deep into their respective allegiances, discussing the upcoming game, offering thoughts on Brian Ferentz, and navigating the latest trending topics from the world of sports. A trusted figure both on the podcast and in his professional life at Robert's Heating and Cooling, Big Ben's comeback is bound to entertain and enlighten. Prepare for laughs, insights, and pure sports camaraderie.

Tim sits down with Coach Tom Wilson as he prepares for the 2023 Dowling Catholic football season.

In this episode of the Moonlight Graham show, the spotlight shines on Robert Etzel, a nonagenarian who once played a short-lived professional baseball season back in 1955. With a record of 19 games, Robert might not have made a significant mark statistically, but his story and connection to the small town of Fort Dodge, Iowa make him a compelling guest. Robert's journey is not just about those 19 games. He grew up in Fort Dodge during the 1940s and 1950s, played junior college baseball and football at Iowa Central, starred in three sports at Simpson College, and even had a brief stint with the barnstorming House of David baseball team. This episode is an unedited treasure that paints a vivid picture of a bygone era, taking listeners on a nostalgic trip to small-town Iowa. Through old newspaper clippings, personal anecdotes, and the charismatic storytelling of Robert, listeners can explore a different time, understanding the rich tapestry of memories woven by someone who has truly lived through it. This episode is not just about celebrating sports and players; it's also about honoring the generations that preceded us and preserving their stories. Dive in and spend an hour with Robert Etzel, a man who, with his tales, encapsulates the essence of the Moonlight Graham show - to spotlight stories worth telling.

Two Moonlighters, Two Aces. One heck of a story.

In this heartwarming episode, Tim shares his unique perspective from the sidelines as he, yet again, carries the bag for repeat guest and underdog golfer Sam Meuret. The duo rehash their journey through the U.S. Open Local Qualifier held at Glen Oaks Country Club in West Des Moines, offering listeners a glimpse of competitive golf from the eyes of a caddy. While the newsflash is that Sam didn't make it to the U.S. Open, the journey, camaraderie, and unique experiences they share are worth the listen. Despite the tournament's somewhat heartbreaking end, we strongly believe in Sam's potential and predict that he will eventually play in a major national tournament. This episode is a testament to the spirit of golf, friendship, and the essence of being an underdog. Don't miss out on this compelling episode with our beloved Moonlighter, Sam Meuret.

After a 5 month hiatus the podcast returns to talk baseball and to jumpstart the 14th season of the best underdog podcast in the universe!

This week we are sending out dreams of spring and early tee times on the weekend. Tim sits down with Nate McCoy to talk all things golf and life after you start carrying your own bag. The former Cyclone and pro golfer shares his perspective on the game, his career, and his decision to make a career in golf without the clubs in his hands.   Nate McCoy was an accomplished prep golfer and the son of one of the top amateur golfers in the country, Mike McCoy. The game is basically in his DNA. After a dominating state title in his senior year of high school, McCoy emerged as one of the top golfers on the Cyclone team in 2008. He put together one of the best resumes in Cyclone golf history in his four seasons. Some might even argue he was the best male athlete at Iowa State in 2012, as he was named the Male Athlete of the Year over Royce White and Steele Jantz. Who says golfers aren't athletes?   After finishing his college career and playing against the guys who became some of the biggest names in golf, like Jordan Spaeth and Brooks Koepka, McCoy teed up his own pro career. He took his clubs and his new wife to Canada to play on the professional tour in Canada. Crisscrossing Canada, earning a win, and making tons of memories was a great experience before he came back to the states. After 3 years as a pro and playing on the Korn Ferry Tour, he returned home to start the next phase of his life and career after 2016. He was playing well and had some high finishes, but with a wife and baby at home, he was ready to head to the clubhouse.   Nate McCoy is still a competitive amateur with several recent wins on his resume and eyes on a national title and his name on a Masters scorecard. In 2022, McCoy won the Iowa Amateur, Iowa Masters, and Iowa Match Play titles. Today, his professional life is focused on promoting and building golf in Iowa. As a true amateur with a day job, he is able to spend his time with his wife and kids while still trying to win every time he steps on the course.

Every Iowa sports fan knows the reputation of Harlan Community High School. The Harlan Cyclones are known far and wide for their success in every sport. Coach Bladt and the football program built a foundation of success that the entire community rests on. There is a lot of pride in the school colors and full bleachers whenever they take the field or court. Mitch Osborn has helped to continue that success in his roles as AD and head basketball coach. This week we sit down with Coach Osborn to learn about his career and what makes Harlan so darn special.   Coach Mitch Osborn has been around sports his whole life. He has spent countless hours on the court or field as an athlete, coach, AD, and dad. His basketball teams have had runs that any coach would be jealous of, but they are part of a culture of winning at Harlan Community. His time at Elk Horn-Kimballton and then a state title with Pomeroy-Palmer were great stops on his journey, but Coach Osborn is most known for his time in the red and silver.   Coach Osborn has over 700 career wins, 20 of his seasons have ended at the state tournament, and was inducted into the Iowa High School Athletic Association Boys Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014. He gives a lot of credit to his players and their community for his successes, but Harlan Community is a unique place. Coach Osborn talks about watching legendary football coach Curt Bladt run practice and about maintaining a competitive culture.    Part of that culture at Harlan Community is multi-sport athletes. Many of the best athletes in Harlan's history, including Coach Osborns own sons, competed nearly year-round for the Cyclones. He credits having depth and competitive practices as key parts of having sustained success. While it seems like the rest of the world is driving kids to specialize, one of the winningest athletic departments in state history emphasizes just the opposite. The Moonlight Graham Show is always rooting for the underdogs, and while that isn't a label given to Harlan Community very often, we love the way that school, and the entire community, get it done year in and year out.

Much of the Moonlight Graham Show has been about telling the stories of former athletes. We have spent 274 episodes looking back on glory days and telling the stories that either made the highlights or shaped the person in the jersey. But this week, we look at a sport that is bringing athletes back to life while it grows on a national stage. Pickleball has been growing in popularity over the last decade. Today, names as big as Lebron James are involved as investors and sponsors. The game has gone from junior high PE classes and retirement communities to deserving real attention.   Chris Rossi, the self-proclaimed pickleball addict, has an origin story that sounds like the start of a great athlete's tale. In his words, every pickleball player has their own journey. Rossi is the son of two PE teachers. He had a head start on the game that many had barely heard of. Pickleball started in the 1960s or so and grew sort of randomly in gym classes and retirement communities over the next few decades. It wasn't until the early 2000s that the spread started leaving those two areas. He credits younger players giving their grandparents' game a chance with the spread of a highly addictive sport. Rossi explains it as a progression of pickleball going from an old person's sport to people in their 40s, then 30s, picking it up as it spread around the country.   Today, there are junior divisions, the Next Generation Series, and schools and colleges are picking it up. Rossi wants to see more youth development and believes that is the important next step in the sport's growth. Rossi sees pickleball as a sport that can be easily picked up in any community as it has lower barriers to entry than sports like tennis. He sees it as a game that can be picked up recreationally in many contexts by people of all abilities.

Every listener to this podcast knows that a game of catch is rarely just a game of catch. Playing catch is an opportunity to connect with someone, whether you spend that time in conversation or just listening to the pop of the ball hitting the leather. Few understand this more than this week's guest, Kevin Negaard. Negaard's journey is nearing his goal of 365 consecutive days of catch. This endeavor has connected him with hundreds of partners, has spanned two continents, and led to two injections in his shoulder.   Kevin Negaard was inspired by our guest Ethan Bryan's book A Year of Playing Catch. Once he had the idea, he started building a list of who he'd like to play with and even connected with Ethan Bryan. Some of his highlights included “turning 2” with Ozzie Smith, playing catcher for Dan Gable, introducing baseball to members of the Maasai Tribe in Africa, and having a toss alongside over a hundred people at the city park in Dyersville during the Field of Dreams game. The most challenging issue for Negaard has actually been the social media posts each day.   Playing catch, even throwing a ball off a wall by himself, has always been a pastime for Kevin Negaard. This project, though, has created opportunities to connect with neighbor kids, his wife, and the ability to reconnect with his youth. As important as that process has been for him, he has also raised thousands of dollars for The Miracle League. This organization believes “Every Child Deserves A Chance to Play Baseball," and we couldn't agree more.   The Moonlight Graham Show knows that a game of catch is always more than a game.

This week's Moonlighter is an underdog, but the hardwood he plays on is more likely to be found on a stage than on a basketball court. Like most of our guests, he is a former athlete, but unlike many of our guests, he walked away from the game instead of the other way around. Griffin House has spent the last 20+ years with a guitar in his hands, recording, touring, and turning out songs that thousands of us love to sing along with.   Griffin House grew up a golfer but was ready for a new path when he finished high school. Instead of pursuing a golf scholarship, House chose a different path that ultimately led him to a music career. His first album was released in 2003, and he has been playing and touring professionally for two decades.    Griffin House's tours crisscross the country. His schedule looks something like what a minor league baseball player might see as he treks through regions of the country and even plays double headers from time to time. And like a ballplayer, Griffin House's discography includes a lot of hits.  Early in his career, he met, toured with, and opened for many big names. His career has crossed paths with Willie Nelson, Bruce Springsteen, Jewell, John Mellencamp, and many others. Over the course of his career, he has established himself as a headliner. His songs have been included in many tv shows and movies, including Numb3ers, Rescue Me, and One Tree Hill. This episode features some of our favorite Griffin House songs: "The Way I Was Made" and "Amsterdam" from his Upland album and "Waiting For The Rain To Come Down" from Flying Upside Down.

The college basketball season is about to hit full swing. A lot of the attention in Iowa is on the Hawkeyes and the Cyclones and where they might fall in the top 25. But, lucky for us, we also have two top-tier Missouri Valley Conference teams in the state. Almost every February, there is talk about how many of our big 4 teams can get into the tourney and who can make a run. This week we welcome one of the best Drake Bulldogs to ever put on the uniform, Reed Timmer. Timmer's career included many records, and he was part of the transition from a few rough years into the upshot that Drake has been on for the last several seasons.   Reed Timmer grew up in Wisconsin and made the trek south to play Division I basketball in Des Moines. He stood out on and off the court at Drake, earning awards for his play and academic success. Over his first three years, the team only averaged 8 wins a year. Even as the team struggled, Timmer was among the team leaders in minutes and points each year. A coaching change shook things up before his senior season. Niko Medved came in and helped turn things around, going 17-17 and playing in the CIT.    Timmer's senior season saw him reach 2,000 points and take the top spot in minutes played in his career, among other records. Those successes in the blue and white served as a springboard to playing professionally overseas and scoring over 1,000 points. After a few years and a few teams, though, he knew he was ready to retire and return home.   Today, Reed Timmer sits courtside for the Bulldogs with Michael Admire and travels with the team as part of the broadcast. Staying close to the game helps him scratch that itch and see the court from another perspective. He has had a front-row seat to watch Coach Darian DeVries and Tucker DeVries as they build Drake into a competitive MVC team.

Role players come in all shapes and sizes. And sometimes, they have to change their shapes and sizes to fit their roles. So as you fill up on Christmas goodies and homecooked meals, just pretend you are getting yourself ready for a new challenge. Ryan Harklau went from being a 3 sport star at Humboldt High School to working through the dark days of the Dan McCarney era. Harklau has never stopped chasing down experiences in and around sports. Today he is still very involved with the Iowa State Cyclones and gets to stay about as close to the game as you can get.   Ryan Harklau grew up in the small town of Humboldt, IA. Playing multiple sports was a way of life in a small town. Harklau was a standout in football, basketball, and on the track. He was a serious athlete. He was a 6'4 200 meter dash and sprint relay guy who spent his summer traveling with Martin Bros. before bulking up to dominate on the football field. Harklau had to make a major transition when he arrived in Ames, though. He went from an athletic sprinter/hooper to a 275+ pound Division I defensive lineman. Putting on that much weight takes more than a few Christmas cookies.   Being part of the up-and-coming Cyclones earned him a shot in the NFL. The once undersized defensive lineman took his game to Jacksonville and scratched and clawed his way into an opportunity with the Jaguars.    Nowadays, Harklau is still on the field, taking over the sideline reporter job from Ben Bruns. When he isn't giving John Walters the in-game update, Harklau serves on the board of the We Will Collective. He may not be chasing down quarterbacks on the field anymore, but Harklau is working hard to help build a winner in Ames.

The underdog podcast needed to sit down with the underdog guy. Tyler O'Shea is a kindred spirit for the Moonlighters out there. O'Shea is researching, writing, and podcasting as he builds his own underdog story with Jokermag.com. Tyler O'Shea has built an incredible underdog storytelling machine. Now, he joins us at the Moonlight Show to break down his top 5 underdog stories from 2022. His list spans the USFL to the NFL and FedEx to the MLB. Tyler O'Shea and Joker Mag know their underdogs, and he came to share.   Tyler O'Shea's career on the baseball diamond got off to a rocky start. After getting cut from his 7th-grade baseball team, the undersized 13-year-old looked to some little big leaguers for motivation to continue to chase success on the baseball field. Names like Chase Utley, Dustin Pedroia, and Tim Lincecum were exemplars of the adage, “it's not the size of the dog in the fight.” O'Shea stuck with it through being a reserve in 8th grade, working his way into the varsity lineup by the time he was an upperclassman. He finished his career playing college baseball at Division III McDaniel College.    Now, O'Shea is telling underdog stories with the Joker Mag Podcast and JokerMag.com. Whereas the Moonlight Graham Show prides itself on our Iowa roots, O'Shea and Joker Mag tell stories from across the country, all sports, all levels, and provide incredible deep dives on their website. Their articles see 40,000+ readers a month.    O'Shea's athletic journey drew him to underdogs, and now he makes telling those stories part of his own.

In an age of sport specialization, the multi-sport athlete is more fascinating than ever. In this week's episode, Tim and Neil discuss the best dual-sport athletes of their lifetimes.

Now that Black Friday and Cyber Monday have come and gone, Moonlight Graham Show is getting in on the two-for-one deals. No, we aren't talking about merch, although we have that too, we are talking about major league arm talent. Pat Venditte is the only true ambidextrous pitcher in MLB history.    Pat Venditte wasn't born ambidextrous. His dad, a former college ball player, trained Pat to throw left-handed even though he was naturally a righty. The goal was to give him an advantage, but who could have known that one day Major League Baseball created the “Pat Venditte Rule” to address the unique challenge of a switch pitcher?   Having a big-league arm is rare. Just a fraction of a percentage of high school baseball players will ever get drafted. Only 1 in 5 players that get drafted make it to the big leagues. But Pat Venditte is the only player out of over 20,000 players to have appeared in the MLB that was ambidextrous.    Venditte had to work hard to train his left arm as a pitcher. He wasn't an overpowering pitcher with either arm, but it was when he developed a sidearm slider with his left arm that was a real turning point. He was always a serious competitor and was focused on doing whatever it took to help his team win. It wasn't until his college career that he started focusing on taking his game to the next level. After getting drafted in the 45th round in 2007, Pat decided to stay in school for his senior year. He was drafted again by the Yankees in the 20th round of the 2008 draft. Venditte spent over 10 years in professional baseball, playing for the A's, Blue Jays, Mariners, Phillies, Dodgers, Giants, and Marlins.

This week the Moonlight Graham Show takes a dip, and we aren't talking about the Thanksgiving appetizers. What better time for our first episode about swimming than just as the first rounds of snow hit the ground? Tim sits down with Paul Jensen and Don Appleby of the 1985 Minnesota state swimming champions from Burnsville High School. This team was a true underdog story.   Minnesota might be the land of 10,000 lakes, but most think of fishing, recreational swimming, and frozen lakes for ice hockey more than racing lanes. “Swim or die” is a Minnesota mantra because of how much time is spent around water. Every little kid needs to learn to swim just for safety. But Paul Jensen and Don Appleby went from being swimmers to champions in the mid-1980s and credit their teammates and their legendary coach for making that jump.   In 1984, the Burnsville swim team set the goal of qualifying for the state meet. The qualifying times were very fast, so making it to state was an achievement in itself. That 1984 Burnsville team finished 22nd in the state and was very accomplished. That changed the expectations for the 1985 season, though.   Paul and Don were part of that 1984 squad and entered the 1985 season as a senior and junior, respectively. Coach Dennis Dale had been an all-Big Ten and All-American swimmer at the University of Minnesota in the 1960s. After his time at Burnsville, Dale won Big Ten titles as the head coach at the University of Minnesota in the 1990s and 2000s. Paul and Don consider Dale one of the best leaders they have ever seen in any field. His coaching philosophy, expectations in the weight room, and the way he ran a practice were what helped to set their team apart.    This episode tells the glory-days story of how the Burnsville underdogs went from 22nd in the state to the top of the podium. The lifelong relationships, life lessons, and memories of that season shaped these teenage guys and helped them lead successful careers in the Navy and their professional careers. There is nothing like a good high school story to kick off Thanksgiving weekend.

Sports are about so much more than wins and losses. At the same time, though, sports aren't nearly as fun if you don't care about wins and losses. At the middle school and high school level, more than anything else, sports are about learning life lessons and building relationships. It takes a special kind of coach to be able to balance the drive to develop young people and develop competitors. Mike Szalat is one of those people. Over the last 20+ years, few people have put more hours into the students and athletes at St. Edmond in Fort Dodge.   True to his Moonlighter status, in his time at Saint Edmond, Coach Szalat has taught Science and Social Studies courses, coached cross country, wrestling, and baseball, and sponsored the National Honor Society and Student Council, among other roles that the school has asked him to take on. He has coached a runner in every state cross country meet since 1999 and had successful individuals and teams on the diamond and on the mat during his tenure.    In more than two decades as a coach, he has been able to coach many good athletes, but none more memorable than coaching his three sons. This past cross-country season was his first season without one of his sons on the team since 2009. Tim gets a little inside information as he looks down the road to coaching his three sons someday.    Several members of the Moonlight crew were taught and coached by Coach Szalat. Almost 20 years later, he is still Coach Szalat or Mr. Szalat to us. This interview covers Coach's career in sports and working with young people. He has worked with hundreds and hundreds of young people and made an indelible impact on their lives.

This week's episode features an upcoming prospect. We don't mean a guy projected to develop into something special; we mean a diamond in the rough uncut gem. John Klein has only been pitching for four seasons, yet he recently signed with the Minnesota Twins. It all began with a chance to move to the mound in high school, which set his baseball career on a new trajectory.   Like many Minnesota kids, John Klein grew up near Minneapolis and dreamed of being the next Joe Mauer. He spent his baseball career behind the plate until his coaches asked him if he wanted to toe the rubber going into his junior year of high school. Without any coaching, he was touching the high 80s. His coaches saw something special and told him that this whole pitching thing might turn out well for John if he was willing to do the work.   Klein was drawing interest from small schools as a catcher, and then, late in his high school career, he started to draw some interest as a pitcher or in a split role. Moonlighter Coach Stein from Iowa Central was able to get Klein to make the trip south to Fort Dodge, and once he was on campus, he bought in.    Iowa Central took the raw talent of a 6'5, 235lbs power pitcher and used analytics and data to shape him into a real pitcher. Working hard in the weight room helped him increase his power. Still, bullpen work with the Rapsodo machine helped him understand how to develop his control and go from a fastball/change-up pitcher to developing a curveball and, later, a slider. Now he is developing his understanding of control and pitch sequencing to become a complete pitcher.   John Klein's plans went through a few tweaks before becoming a part of the Minnesota Twins system. He was initially heading to KState and the Big 12 but had to alter his course. Next up was a D2 school in Minnesota, but that only lasted about a week before he got the call from the Minnesota Twins and found himself heading to the Florida Complex League for Rookie Ball.    As John Klein starts his professional baseball career, he'll be the first to admit that seeing his name on the back of a Minnesota Twins jersey is surreal.

There isn't a more perfect way to kick off this season of the podcast than with a perfect game. Most of us probably think about the pitcher when we hear ‘perfect game,' but on the Moonlight Graham Show, we are looking for someone behind the scenes. Two-time Moonlighter Pat Hoberg is working his first World Series, and we didn't want to miss a pitch. And as it turns out, neither did he. Pat Hoberg has made a name for himself as one of the top umpires in the league. According to Umpire Scorecard (@UmpScorecards), a Twitter account with over 300,000 followers that rates every behind-the-plate performance all season long, Hoberg called a perfect game in Game 2 of the 2022 World Series. There were 129 called pitches, and he got every single one correct. Throughout the season, Umpire Scorecard has Hoberg as the most accurate umpire in the league, and Game 2 was the best-called game of the season. This was the first perfect game tracked by Umpire Scorecard, which includes thousands of games dating back to 2015. In the days since the game, the win by the Astros has become overshadowed by Hoberg's perfect game. The next few games of the World Series will have the nation's attention, but our eyes will be watching the K Zone and Umpire Scorecard to see if anyone can measure up to Moonlighter Pat Hoberg.

Every once in a while, a Moonlighter just falls into your lap. Matt Buschmann connected to the podcast on Twitter, and, as it turns out, he was just the kind of story we are looking for. Matt Buschmann is a 10-year minor league baseball veteran who made three appearances in the Majors. When his playing days were done, he became the bullpen coach for the Toronto Blue Jays. Buschmann has the kind of story diehard baseball fan loves to hear, and he came to the right place to tell it.   Matt Buschmann grew up in Missouri but headed east to play his college ball for Vanderbilt. Vandy is a premier SEC baseball program, and Buschmann was part of two SEC tournament runs in the early 2000s. After being drafted in the 15th round of the 2006 draft by the Padres, Buschmann had a lot of early success, earning various all-star awards in the California League and Texas League. Over the next several years, Buschmann moved between the upper levels of minor league ball and across organizations playing for the Padres, Rays, Athletics, Orioles, and Reds, before landing with the Arizona Diamondbacks. It was there that he finally earned his shot.   In April of 2016, Matt Buschmann was called up by the Arizona Diamondbacks. He made three appearances, throwing 4.1 innings, giving up one earned run, and recording three strikeouts. After his stint in the bigs, he was sent back down to Triple-A. He was signed by the Blue Jays for the 2017 season but made no appearances.    When his playing days were done, Matt Buschmann decided to stay in the game but in a new role. He spent a year with the Giants working in player development before returning to the Blue Jays in 2018. He has been serving as the bullpen coach for Toronto for the last few seasons.   This interview covers everything about Matt Buschmann's career as a player and coach. From his time at Vandy to his new role as a big league coach, Buschmann has seen just about everything on the diamond.

Neil and Tim discuss the CyHawk showdown this Saturday, Albert Pujols, Aaron Judge, and the new King of England.

Jon Wisnieski's name may be hard to spell, but it is even harder to forget for Des Moines metro Hawkeye fans. He was a star from Dowling Catholic High School and a highly touted recruit heading east to Iowa City. Jon played alongside some of the top names coming out of Tight End U during his five years in black and gold. Injuries sidetracked his college career but haven't slowed him down since. Just in time for Cy-Hawk week, Jon Wiznieski gives the inside look at his time for both Dowling and the Hawkeyes and life beyond football.   Jon Wisnieski was a multi-sport star at Dowling Catholic. He played baseball, football, and basketball and emerged as a two-way starter for the Maroon football team by his junior and senior seasons. He was highly recruited from high school with offers from many D1 programs. It seemed like his trajectory would lead him to be the next big name Hawkeye tight end when he chose Coach Ferentz and the Hawkeyes. Injuries early in his career coupled with TJ Hockenson, Noah Fant, Geoge Kittle, CJ Fiedorowicz, and Henry Krieger-Coble limited his opportunities to take the reins of the tight end role. Wisnieski stayed on the team for five years and saw playing time across three seasons on offense and special teams.   In this interview, Tim and Jon go through his experiences transitioning from a multi-sport high school athlete to trying to find his place in a crowded, tight-end room. One of the biggest challenges he faced was overcoming an injury his freshman year. He had to work his way back over the course of an entire year and saw his first game action in two years when he appeared against Illinois State in 2015. When his playing days were over, Jon Wisnieski had to adjust his worldview to fulfill his new goals for his life. This new journey included meeting Derek Jeter, contemplating the priesthood, and working with young people.

This week things get really nice on the podcast. That's right, the Iowa Nice Guy, filmmaker, actor, and Moonlighter Scott Siepker returns to the pod to talk about his new feature-length documentary film, Kinnick. Scott and Tim take the pod outdoors for an early fall evening conversation about Nile Kinnick and the years-long journey that Siepker set out on to tell the famous Iowan's story.    Nile Kinnick's name lives on in Iowa sports with the connection to the home of the Iowa Hawkeye football team. Each week it seems the tv broadcast either shows the players walking into the stadium near his statue outside of the south endzone, or the bronze statue of Kinnick is shown surrounded by hordes of fans in black and gold entering through the south gates. But the story of Nile Kinnick is about much more than the Heisman Trophy and playing for the Hawkeyes.    Siepker began the process of creating the documentary about Kinnick several years ago. He started his own film company and had to learn on the job as he funded, researched, and created the film from start to finish. The story of Nile Kinnick is genuinely incredible and something that all Iowans can take pride in, regardless of their hometown or Cy-Hawk allegiance.  Among Siepker's current and future projects, the story of Jack Trice is one that Siepker also plans to share in a documentary. Kinnick is showing at the Palms in Waukee and will show in Iowa City and other Iowa theaters.

Once again, Moonlight Tim returns to the course with Sam Meuret. This time they head west for the Mid-Amateur Qualifier. Like our previous episodes with Sam, this pod was recorded in two parts. Part one of the interview is Tim and Sam on the road to Shadow Ridge, and part two is the road home. The relationship between the caddie and the golfer is like the pitching coach and the ace or the quarterback and the offensive coordinator. Though Tim and Sam took a long break between podcasts and tournaments, they go together like a round of golf and an ice-cold 6-pack.   The road trip to Nebraska includes topics ranging from NIL deals to what it would take to get Sam into the LIV tour. The team talks about it all as they get ready for Sam's next shot. The design of a tournament like the Mid Amateur Qualifier is to give post-collegiate golfers (ages 25 and over) a shot at qualifying for the US Open or a US Senior Open. This qualifier takes Sam back to Omaha as he and Tim prepare to play Shadow Ridge Country Club.    In an effort to win an amateur title, Sam called Tim out of the bullpen. Tim went back to the exact outfit he wore the first time he caddied for Sam. However, the outfit didn't bring any extra luck, as Sam played well but not well enough. This was an 18-hole qualifier, so Tim and Sam had one day and one round to make it happen. Despite 15 solid holes, three scores added about seven strokes to his total and kept him from taking home the medal.   The drive home gives Tim and Sam a chance to break down the day. They go through everything from their flag-tattooed partners, an opponent withdrawing, figuring out where Tim can push as a caddie and where they can grow as a team. By the time these guys pull into Des Moines, they sound like they are ready to hit the range and get ready for the next qualifier.

The MLB coming to Iowa has led to many changes around the state over the last two years. Last year's game with the Yankees and White Sox was a spectacle. The sights and sounds of the movie site and new stadium, coupled with the production of a national broadcast and MLB, drew millions of eyes to the state. Tim and Neil attended the game as part of their official duties for the podcast and had the time of their lives (until the 8th inning, anyways). This year, the boys could not attend the game, so they had to bring in a reliever. Who better to serve as the Moonlight Graham Show's first unofficial correspondent than one of Iowa's favorite role players, Moonlighter Nick Collison?    Nick Collison reached out to Tim to get the inside scoop as he was planning to take his dad, Dave Collison, to have a catch and watch the game. The Collisons had a memorable night. This year's trip had everything from playing catch on the field to Harry Carey making a surprise appearance. Tim caught up with Nick the day after the game to catch up on all things Field of Dreams.

Game. Set. Sibling rivalry. This week the Moonlight Graham Show takes the pod on the road to the All Iowa Lawn Tennis Club in Charles City, Iowa. This little-known gem has earned the nickname “The Court of Dreams.” The AILTC might be the only true grass tennis court in the state. It is styled after, and named after, the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, which hosts the iconic Wimbledon Championships tennis tournament. Neil and Tim record while on the road to Charles City and then on the ride home from their match to reflect on their experience.   Mark and Denise Kuhn built the All Iowa Lawn Tennis Club court as a passion project on their family farm. Mark Kuhn grew up listening to the Wimbledon Championships on the radio and dreamed of playing on center court. That dream became a reality about 20 years ago as the family began the process of converting a cattle feedlot into a top-tier grass court.    Mark Kuhn's research and preparation began with a call to Iowa State University to understand turf management and horticulture. The AILTC website includes images from the construction process, which included grading the tons of sandy soil that were brought in, planning drainage and irrigation, and picking up every little rock along the way.   If you haven't picked up on this yet, the Flattery boys are competitors. This isn't just a friendly exhibition match. This is the most important tennis match that either brother has ever participated in. Neither man wanted this to go down as a loss and had to devise a plan to manage their frustrations to avoid slamming/breaking rackets or taking a divot out of the Court of Dreams.    The match came down to a tie-breaker super set as Tim took the first match and Neil came back to win the second match. Their version of the Flattery Iowa-style Wimbledon took the full two hours of their court reservation and came down to the last point.

The term GOAT just gets thrown around right now. The goat emoji is tagged on every highlight on social media, and every recruit is the next big thing. This “prisoner of the moment” mentality also leads us to compare eras. Some are convinced that guy wouldn't stand a chance today or that no one could ever match the dominance of a certain era. Guys like Shohei Ohtani come along in the midst of the noise and draw comparisons to players from generations ago, but there is no way to actually know. The problem with that conversation is that it can't be settled. Instead, we can look to institutions like the Hall of Fame.    The Baseball Hall of Fame looks to celebrate the greatest from across all generations. Standards like 3,000 hits or 300 wins are looked at as certain marks of excellence that lock in a player's place in Cooperstown. While we don't know where Fernando Tatis Jr.'s career is heading or what Aaron Judge's next few years will be like, our resident baseball experts Tim and Neil sit down to prognosticate the Hall of Fame classes of years to come.    Tim and Neil break the field down into five categories. They take into account a host of facts and figures. They consider where the player is in his career, lifetime stats, impact on the game, and the types of teams they played on that might have impacted their notoriety. The categories are:    The Harmon Killebrews are the first or second ballot no-brainers. The players that will be enshrined as soon as they are eligible. Guys like Albert Pujols have made such an impact on the game that they are among the greatest of all time. These names will be called as soon as they hang up their cleats.   The Joe Mauers are the future Hall of Famers with a hole or two in their resume. They might not get in right away, but their names belong with the all-time greats. They don't have the certainty of the Killebrews, but they have earned their place through the totality of their career.    The third group is the Jim Kaat tier. Jim Kaat had to wait almost 40 years from the end of his career to hear his name called this year. These are the guys whose numbers and achievements place them in that Hall of Fame category but maybe lacked that dominance or star power that made them clear-cut entries.   Then we have the Torii Hunter category. Unlike the Jim Kaats, these are players that maybe had the star power or periods of dominance but don't have the overall resume that earns them their place in Cooperstown.   Finally, the Byron Buxton tier. These are the guys who have the potential to leave their mark on the game, but it is just too early to tell. These are the players that are exciting to watch and might even be changing the way the game is played today.

This week's Moonlighter goes way back with Moonlight Tim. Eric Stein was a sophomore leader for the Iowa Central Tritons when Tim joined the team as a freshman. Even as a 19-year-old, Eric Stein's baseball IQ made it clear that his future was in coaching if he wanted it. Roughly 18 years after that first meeting, Tim sits down with Eric to talk about Stein's progression from player to head coach for those same Tritons.   Eric Stein grew up on a farm outside Portsmouth, Iowa, and attended Harlan Community High School. After a successful high school baseball career, Stein moved to the big city of Fort Dodge to play for Iowa Central during the 2004 and 2005 seasons. After considerable success as an infielder, including recognition for his defensive skills, Stein played for Grand View University. When his playing days were over, he took a call from Rick Pedersen to come back as an assistant coach. Stein took over as a head coach in the 2018-2019 season and has had consistent success over the last few years, racking up 75 wins so far.   Tim and Eric both have a passion for Iowa Central and junior college baseball. This interview focuses on the world of JUCO baseball from the players' and coaches' perspectives. They cover everything from recruiting kids to a 2-year school to the impact of Eric Sim.    Tim takes Eric through his eight beliefs about success in junior college baseball. These nuggets of wisdom are explained from both the veteran player angle and the current skipper. Tim's list ranges from staying out of trouble to ensuring your attitude and work ethic keep you on the path to success. Stein has to recruit young men to Fort Dodge to help his program take the next step by moving on to 4-year schools when their time in JUCO is done. His success so far shows that he knows what it takes to win at the junior college level, but maybe Tim's list could be the Moonlight bump to help Stein and the Tritons bring home that world series ring.

Sometimes an athlete has to evolve their game to become a role player. Sometimes a role player evolves into being a star. This week's Moonlighter went from being a backup on his middle school team to becoming a first-round pick in the NFL draft. Trevor Penning grew up, and we certainly do mean grew, in small town Iowa. He went to a small high school and then an FCS school. But now, at 6'7 and 330 pounds and as a first-round draft pick, everything about him is big time.   Trevor Penning didn't start out as a first-round lock. In fact, as an 8th grader at Clear Lake, he was on the B team for football. He transferred to Mason City Newman because he wanted to play baseball with the guys he had played travel ball with. He didn't take sports too seriously at that point but enjoyed being on the team. Over the next few years, he decided to hang up his bat and glove and start focusing on the football field. He continued to develop physically and started to pop up on the college recruiting radar.    Going from a backup 8th grader to a standout player in smalltown high school football is one thing but stepping up to an FCS powerhouse is a much more challenging transformation. Trevor Penning credits the strength program at UNI for his progress from reserve to starter. The intensity and quality of that program stand out from what Penning has seen from coaches and teammates around the country. His development in his first few years was incredible as he progressed into an all-conference player for the Panthers.   One catalyst for his growth was the lockdown surrounding Covid. When the season was canceled, and the future was uncertain, Penning and his brother decided to train together and keep the level of expectations they had learned from the strength coaching staff. Penning credits that time with helping him make his biggest leaps physically and in terms of his confidence.    The progress Trevor Penning has made over the last few years garnered the attention of NFL scouts from around the league. Going into the 2022 draft Penning was projected as a top offensive tackle pick across the board. Instead of ordering a tailored suit and getting his look right for the cameras, Penning ordered pizza, beer, and a few shots for his draft party at the OP in Clear Lake. His family, teammates, and friends celebrated when they heard his name called as the 19th pick by the New Orleans Saints. Trevor Penning has already brought the same grit and work ethic to his rookie camp and mini-camps with the Saints and looks to be a contributor as the season gets started in just a few weeks. 

There are few roles more important than that of coach. Part mentor, part cheerleader, part teacher part disciplinarian, and sometimes even part father or mother figure. This week's Moonlighter fits those descriptors to a T. Marty Sutherland has spent most of his life in sports and played a prominent role in the lives of countless young men. Marty Sutherland checks all of the boxes of a prototypical Moonlighter. He is from smalltown Iowa, he played juco baseball, and he even sold insurance for a little bit. He is now the associate head coach of the University of Iowa baseball team. The first time Tim and Marty met was in a smalltown baseball tournament when Sutherland ripped a double off of the Moonlight Ace. They crossed paths again a few months later when the Cascade native was one of Tim's coaches at the Universtiy of Northern Iowa under Rick Heller. Since their days in purple and gold, Sutherland has stuck with Heller and is now at the University of Iowa. Marty Sutherland is one of the smartest baseball guys around. It is incredible to see the success the Iowa baseball program has had since the arrival of Heller, Sutherland, and the rest of the staff. As a coach, Marty Sutherland's fingerprints are all over that dugout. Few are able to help influence and develop young players the way that Sutherland has been able to. Even just watching the Hawkeyes play, a sharp eye can identify the impact that he has hadMany of us former athletes can think back to a coach who played a key role in our sports life. It might be because of how they built us up when we were down, changed our approach, or how they got after us when we needed it most. Marty Sutherland has been that influence on hundreds of young men and has played a vital role in the turnaround of the most prominent college program in Iowa.

This week Neil and Tim discuss the current state of attendance in the MLB and the astounding fact that over 600,000 fans attend baseball games each day.

One thing that we love about sports is the way that no matter how old we get, sports stay the same. Depending on where we are in our lives, we can be the athlete, the fan, the coach, or even the dad. This week's Moonlighter has a perspective on wrestling from every angle. The former high school and D1 wrestler now wears the hats of coach and dad. Adam Fellers has seen it all and has a take on just about everything.   Adam Fellers grew up in Fort Dodge and made a name for himself as part of a proud Dodger wrestling tradition. During his junior year, he started to really stand out in the varsity lineup. After a 3rd place finish at the 2000 state wrestling tournament, Fellers was one of the top dogs in the class of 2001. He was recruited by the Hawkeyes while on his way to a 36-1 senior campaign that ended with another bronze medal in Des Moines.    Adam Fellers joined the Hawkeyes at a tumultuous time though. Jim Zalesky had just taken over for Dan Gable and though the Hawkeyes were still bringing in top recruits, like Fellers's roommate Steve Mocco, the program wasn't living up to expectations. Fellers had to adjust to the level of competition and intensity of a D1 program but was regularly making his way into the lineup during his junior and senior campaigns.    While his career on the mat may have wrapped up a while ago, Fellers might spend more time in the sport now than ever before. As a coach, Fellers is a part of the staff at Sebolt Wrestling Academy in Jefferson, IA which includes another former Fort Dodger, Justin McClintock, head coach TJ Sebolt, and several top-notch coaches, Fellers gets to work with the most talented wrestlers in and around Iowa. Sebolt is currently turning out champions at the high school and youth levels like no one else.    When he isn't in the room with some of the top athletes in the state, he is serving the sport as a super fan and promoter through outlets like IA Wrestle and Hagar's Happy Hour with Tony Hagar. You can find Adam Fellers on several podcasts and YouTube channels talking about the world of wrestling and a host of other topics.   His most important role in the sport though is as a fan and supporter of his own sons. When it comes to them, he sets aside his coach's whistle and focuses on just being a dad. Spending a lifetime on and around the mat has given Adam Fellers a lot of life lessons and close friendships that he is more than happy to talk about.

All-time leading scorer and role player don't really fit in the same sentence. But in the case of this week's Moonlighter, they are both a part of his story. Brooks McKowen graduated high school having set a new standard for Iowa high school basketball players. While at UNI he became a new player. When he hung up the sneakers, he found another role holding a clipboard. No matter what role he takes on, Brooks McKowen continues to find success on the basketball court.   Brooks McKowen grew up in smalltown Iowa and absolutely dominated high school basketball for his four-year career. McKowen set a state record by scoring over 2,800 points in his career and set the season mark with 1,002 in his senior year alone. The individual records weren't really on his radar until he was entering his senior year though. He just wanted to win. McKowen put Wapsie Valley on the map and had the state of Iowa keeping track of him as he made his way into the record books.   McKowen was a 6'2  guard who was putting up 35 and 11 each night in high school. Coming from a small school, and in the era before social media, McKowen's recruiting process was really different than what his own players go through today. He started 117 games for UNI in his 4 years. He was a key player for the Panthers as they went to 3 NCAA tournaments. But instead of being a scorer, he became a role player averaging 7 points and 3 assists per game over the course of his career while playing for Greg McDermott and Ben Jacobson.   That transition has helped him become the successful head coach that he is today. When he was finished playing for Ben Jacobson, he traded his jersey for a clipboard and served as a graduate assistant and later as an assistant coach for the Panthers. After stops in DMACC and Southwest Minnesota State, McKowen took on another new role as the head coach for the Upper Iowa University. UIU is the only D-2 school in the state and McKowen puts an emphasis on recruiting Iowa-born and bred players. McKowen knows that smalltown kids will thrive in smalltown Fayette, Iowa. In his 9 years at UIU, the Peacocks have won 150 games and set the school record for wins twice. This past season they were 22-6 and made it to the NCAA D II Central Regional Semifinals. The outlook for this 2022-2023 is very bright as he returns a lot of talent.

The College World Series has been in Omaha since1950. Would college baseball benefit from alternating sites? 

At an imposing 6'7, this week's Moonlighter might look the part but his path to professional sports had a dog leg or two. Sean Johnson grew up an athlete playing hockey and baseball and though he made a run at a professional baseball career, it was his skills from the ice that has helped him to launch. Johnson is now making a name for himself in professional long drive golf competitions.    Sean Johnson has Iowa family connections but it was baseball that brought him to Western Iowa from Colorado. Johnson was recruited to play baseball for the Reivers in 2012. He joined one of the top JUCO programs in the country but had to adapt quickly to the rigors of college ball. Johnson was selected in the 31st round of the 2013 MLB draft by the Chicago Cubs after his freshman season. He chose to stay in Council Bluffs for the 2014 season and went 10-1 while helping Iowa Western win the 2014 national championship. He went on to play for Ole Miss in the SEC for three seasons. Injuries derailed his progress some while playing in the top conference and the biggest stadiums in college baseball. Johnson went on to play 4 seasons of independent ball before making the decision to hang up his spikes.     Growing up, hockey was actually his best sport for the self described baby giraffe. Johnson was an aggressive player and opponents knew he was trying to use his slapshot to put it in the back of the net. His prep career included some elite competition and opportunities on the ice. In addition to baseball and hockey, Johnson loved to bomb golf balls almost 400 yards as a teenager. The combination of his height, athleticism and training as a hockey player allowed him to jump right into long drive competitions. Literally, just after his baseball career ended due to injury he Googled professional long drive and teed up a new career.    From that first competition, Johnson got picked up by a coach to learn how actually develop as a long-drive golfer. He started working with Coach Bobby Peterson and converted his baseball & hockey swing into a true long-drive golf swing. Peterson swings it at 200+ MPH and is really just getting started on his new profession. The Professional Long Drive Association is just taking off and Johnson has the skills to be one of its stars.

This week on the Moonlight Baseball Hour we discuss the role of the modern MLB manager along with the excitement of the college baseball postseason. Don't forget to go out and play some catch this weekend!

“Hey Dad, you want to have a catch?”   We all know the iconic line. The moment when Ray and his dad connect at the end of the movie. They have a deep conversation about the significance of both family and, of course, the state of Iowa. Just when it feels like the moment is over, Ray asks his dad to play catch. There is one subtle moment in that scene that makes it truly profound. Maybe you didn't even notice it the last time you saw the movie. When Ray runs to grab his glove and the ball, the conversation stops. When they start throwing. The game of catch symbolizes the reconnection between the two men. Ray's wife sees them from the porch, smiles, and then walks back into the house. It's as she wants to let them share that moment uninterrupted.   Something so simple yet so significant. Playing catch is an undervalued way of spending time connecting without sayings word. This week on the podcast, Tim takes some time to reflect on the magic of a game of catch.    While the boys in the Sandlot were scrounging around for an extra 98¢, today you can buy a ball for about $2-3. Roughly 4.5 million baseball gloves are sold in the US each year. Major League Baseball alone goes through roughly 1 million balls in a season. With all that leather out there and, more than likely, a few baseballs in your garage right now, how do we revive the simple joy of playing catch with our friends, brothers, fathers, and sons? Well, we start with a simple question, “want to have a catch?”

This week on the Moonlight Baseball Hour Neil and Tim break down the Joc Pederson and Tommy Pham fantasy football flame out, which has become one of the most fun off-the-field storylines baseball has seen in years. They also look into how many sets up twins have appeared in an MLB game along with Byron Buxton's frigid month of May. 

Sometimes, a Moonlighter finds a role and sometimes a Moonlighter needs to make a role. While the average Joe can't even come close, a 5'9 righty who throws around 90 is a dime-a-dozen in professional baseball. This week's Moonlighter created a role for himself in that got him into a major league bullpen. Just like his knuckleball, Jannis's career took a less than traditional path to his MLB debut.