My readers have always been great about indulging me when I stray from the confines of my "Strictly Legal" column title and veer slightly off course. I hope this will be one of those times.
Today I am thinking about Lee Corso's announcement that he is retiring from ESPN's College Game Day program. He will make his final appearance in Columbus on August 30, before the OSU – Texas game. Ideally, he will enjoy a long and well-deserved retirement.
As a diehard Notre Dame fan, I am regular viewer of Game Day. I mean, why spend just three hours on a fall Saturday watching the Fighting Irish, when you can spend an additional three hours watching the Game Day guys talking about in advance? (I have tried to explain this to my wife, but she doesn't totally get it). But for me, Game Day is more than just talking heads. There is a chemistry there that makes the experience like sitting around with friends at a pre-game tailgate. And until Pat McAfee's arrival, Corso was the show's comic relief. His "not so fast my friend" rejoinders to the other host's predictions are iconic. And of course, the show closes with Corso donning the head gear of the mascot representing the school he picks to win the day's featured game. I hope no one tries to replicate this schtick, because it will simply not be the same.
In May of 2009, Corso suffered a stroke, which caused partial paralysis. It also caused him to occasionally slur his speech. In recent years, he has suffered from some cognitive decline. But to his credit, he shows up week after week, no matter the elements. For a guy turning 90 this August, it's pretty amazing.
Equally amazing in my view, however, is the kindness, empathy and compassion we've seen in these past years from Corso's co-host, Kirk Herbstreit. When Corso stumbles over words, loses his train of thought, or even falls, Herbstreit helps him get through. I suspect ESPN is interested in a demographic that skews younger than me. So, the presence of an octogenarian likely isn't on point with the brand. But I imagine in addition to his assistance on screen, Herbstreit was an advocate for Corso behind the scenes as well.
Most people my age have or are dealing with aging parents. And I suspect for many of us, there have been times where our unconditional love has been tested. Certainly, patience can be at a premium. I'm sure that's the case because we remember when that aging parent was larger than life. They took care of use, and it can be awkward and challenging when those roles are reversed.
As so many of us traverse this challenging time, it may help to remember the kindness and patience we've seen modeled all these Saturday mornings on Game Day. Inspiration can come from unexpected sources.
