Bolts From The Blue: All Posts by Christina LittleAn Unofficial Los Angeles Chargers Blog Created By The Fans, For The Fanshttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47753/btfb-fv.png2014-09-11T08:00:04-07:00https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/authors/christina-little/rss2014-09-11T08:00:04-07:002014-09-11T08:00:04-07:00A Female Fan's View of Rice, Goodell, and the NFL
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<figcaption>Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Disclaimer: The following are my opinions and do not reflect the views of SB Nation or Bolts from the Blue. I am not a subject-matter expert – just a passionate fan who loves football. </p> <p>It is important to be familiar with the entire sequence of events surrounding the <span>Ray Rice</span> situation prior to reading the following opinion-based article - SB Nation's Louis Bien thoroughly summarizes them <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2014/5/23/5744964/ray-rice-arrest-assault-statement-apology-ravens%20">here</a>.</p>
<p>Anyone with an iota of morality will agree that the acts of Ray Rice are atrocious. I'll further assert that the subsequent coverup of such acts by the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/">Baltimore Ravens</a>, Roger Goodell, and the National Football League are disgusting.</p>
<p>There is no doubt in my mind as to whether or not the Ravens and/or NFL representatives viewed the un-abbreviated surveillance tape prior to its release this week. In fact, I am even willing to say that one or more front office executives saw the tape within hours of Rice and Palmer's arrest. I'd be willing to bet that Rice's first call was to his lawyer, who immediately began strategizing with his employer, the Ravens. Next, I'd guess that damage control commenced; including a comprehensive internal investigation, which led to obtaining and viewing the surveillance video. I envision Rice's legal team, the Ravens, and Roger Goodell assessing risk and strategizing how they'd "control" the situation.</p>
<p>While I am at it, I'll even go so far as to speculate that Rice and Palmer were advised to immediately get married. Why? Well, if his then fiancée wasn't going to press charges, she surely wouldn't press charges as his wife. Furthermore, should additional legal accusations surface, Mrs. Rice would not be subpoenaed to testify against her husband. Maybe you think I've been watching too much <em>Law and Order</em>, but the fact that Rice and Palmer were engaged in 2011, had a daughter in 2012, then suddenly (and inexplicably) rushed a private ceremony in March 2014 (just one month after the incident), seems highly suspicious.</p>
<p>That being said, anyone who thinks these are the most atrocious acts that have taken place in the NFL (or any organized sports group in the United States) must love having media-hyped wool pulled over their eyes. It doesn't take much to recall the countless times the league, at-large, has turned a blind-eye to blatant crimes that would get the average civilian incarcerated.</p>
<p>My biggest qualm in all this lies with those who suddenly woke up, hopped on a soap box, latched it to the band-wagon and became an overnight advocate of women's rights. What about the countless other accusations of abuse and sexual assault? There absolutely needs to be a demand for the awareness and eradication of violence and abuse, particularly in the NFL. It is not, however, going to remarkably occur with the condemnation of Ray Rice and/or Roger Goodell. While Rice and Goodell should absolutely be severely penalized, real change will only take place when the NFL's pocket book is sacked. True activists of the cause must take a comprehensive look at the overall organizational structure of the NFL. Once this is done, it's easier to understand that it is not Roger Goodell who is in "control." As the Commissioner, <a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/tomwatson/2014/01/30/the-real-super-bowl-question-should-the-nfl-be-a-nonprofit/" target="_blank">he oversees a non-profit league which represents 32 for-profit clubs/owners</a>. So, you see, the power and onus lies within each respective club.</p>
<p>If one wants to assist in eradicating criminal behaviors and injustices in the NFL, then there must be an on-going, direct involvement between the fans and clubs. Fans must make it known to their club's respective owners what they value, then regularly hold the club accountable.</p>
<p>As fans and community members, we have a social responsibility to actively involve ourselves in the ongoing betterment of the NFL - not just rant when there is something so heinous that it's impossible to ignore.</p>
https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/2014/9/11/6134837/a-female-fans-view-of-rice-goodell-and-the-nflChristina Little2014-09-02T09:00:03-07:002014-09-02T09:00:03-07:00BFTB Interviews Chargers TE Ladarius Green
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<p>This past Saturday my interminable 'Chargers optimism' was reinforced as Chargers TE Ladarius Green spent time with fans and granted BFTB a little candid Q&A. </p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4963344/IMG_3390.JPG"></a><a target="_blank" href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4963360/IMG_3392.JPG"></a><a target="_blank" href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4963368/IMG_3393.JPG"></a> This past Saturday afternoon, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers" class="sbn-auto-link">Chargers</a> fans lined up at Fox Sports Grill in downtown San Diego as <span>Ladarius Green</span> participated in a fan meet-and-greet hosted by <a href="http://www.dscauthentic.com/">Deluxe Signature Collection.</a></p>
<p>As I chatted with the Chargers third-year Tight End about the challenges facing the team's 'sophomore' offense Green said, "I think our main challenge right now is clicking at the right moment [and] not peaking too early in the season. [We need to] peak at the right time, get to the play-offs, and keep on a roll like that. As well as just having good practices and good preparation for games. It's year two in the system, our second year on this offense - of course, it's going to click a little bit better and go a little bit easier, so that helps as well."</p>
<p>Even with the prospect of success on the horizon, Green keeps it real when reflecting on his 'highs' and 'lows' with the team saying, "It was just satisfying to me that some of my teammates recognized me and said that I made a contribution to the team - that's a big thing coming from someone like Phillip [Rivers] or [Antonio] Gates - you know, that's a big honor. And lowest [moment], probably was when I wasn't playing - I couldn't do anything to help at all. Sitting on the sideline and not being able to help. Like my rookie year when Gates was hurt, I still couldn't go out there and play because I wasn't ready yet."</p>
<p>Well, I think it's safe to say that Green is ready now. And not only is he ready do all he can to help carry the Chargers to a championship, but he's ready to make a lasting impact in San Diego. The Chargers, known to foster a bond between the community and its players, continually invites rookies and seasoned players to give back to the community. Green reminisced on his rookie season and time spent in the soup kitchens at <a href="http://www.sandiego.salvationarmy.org/">The Salvation Army </a>saying, "It's very humbling seeing people, where people are at and how some people live, and just realizing we are just so blessed."</p>
<p>Long-term Green says he would like to attach himself to an organization such as <a href="http://www.sdyouth.org/">The Boys and Girls Club</a>. Having attended the Boys and Girls Club growing up, Green said, "That's where I went when I was little - I played for Boys and Girls Club. It's something [I can attach myself to].You know, it's always weird when you were doing it when you were little, then you make it to the place where you make it and remember, <i>‘I was once that person.'"</i></p>
<p>Only time will tell, but I think San Diego's grass is looking a little Green-er!</p>
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https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/2014/9/2/6096127/bftb-interviews-san-diego-chargers-te-ladarius-greenChristina Little2014-08-30T09:00:02-07:002014-08-30T09:00:02-07:00Chargers Say "Oohra!"
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<p>This past Wednesday, the San Diego Chargers held a private practice for the most faithful and deserving of fans: our local military service members and their families.</p> <p><span>The practice, and related events, took place at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. Before the Bolts hit the practice field, children of the men and women who are first to fight for our freedom, were first to train. The kids, ages 8-14 years old, lined up to participate in a </span><a href="http://www.nflrush.com/play60/" style="font-size: 12px; background-color: #ffffff;">NFL Play 60 </a><span>football clinic presented by</span><span> </span><a href="https://www.usaa.com/inet/pages/ent_all_thankyouLP_landing_mkt?adid=icgsch70564854-VQ16-c-VQ6-45702713892" style="font-size: 12px; background-color: #ffffff;">USAA </a><span>and led by local</span><span> </span><a href="http://www.starpal.org/" style="font-size: 12px; background-color: #ffffff;">STAR/PAL </a><span>members.</span></p>
<p>While they may have been small, these little ones were mighty! They held nothing back as they ran drills and sweat it out like pros!</p>
<p>After the clinic, military families mingled with the Charger Girls, stood side-line for a front row view of the team's walk-through practice, and were granted VIP access to the players.</p>
<p>Now how's that for an early Wednesday afternoon? Oorah!<a href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4948690/IMG_3285.JPG"> </a></p>
https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/2014/8/30/6086505/semper-fidelis-chargers-salute-their-most-loyal-fansChristina Little2014-07-10T15:00:05-07:002014-07-10T15:00:05-07:00Alex Spanos Kicks Off Football Season Early
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<p>Tomorrow night San Diego's high school football stars will 'Bolt Up' and give fans an early kick-off to the 2014 football season.</p> <p>July 11th at 7:00 p.m. San Diego’s North and South County graduating high school football stars will go head-to-head under the 'Friday Night Lights' of Mesa College’s stadium in the 24th Annual Alex Spanos All-Star Classic.</p>
<p>Before these seniors tie their "Class of ‘14" tassels to the review mirror and drive off into the sunset, the 88 participants will be cheered on by the 2014 Charger Girls Squad as they tackle the gridiron field in all their varsity football glory.</p>
<p>The North and South squads will be coached by Tom Karlo (Grossmont High School) and Tony Corley(San Pasqual High School), respectively. Although it’s a friendly match-up, spectators can expect to see Coach Karlo exhibit his fast-paced offensive strategy as the South defends last year’s victory. One more win for the South squad will tie up the record between the two teams.</p>
<p>Tickets will be available at the game ($10/adult and $5/child). All proceeds will benefit the<a href="http://www.sandiegohighschoolsportsassociation.com/home.html"> High School Sports Association of San Diego</a>. For more information, visit the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers" class="sbn-auto-link">Chargers</a>' <a href="http://www.chargers.com/news/article-1/Football-Season-Kicks-Off-with-Alex-Spanos-Classic/72947b56-8f0c-4a75-9264-ed98041bf6b8">website</a>.</p>
https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/2014/7/10/5888603/alex-spanos-kicks-off-the-season-with-san-diegos-high-school-all-starsChristina Little2014-07-04T13:00:02-07:002014-07-04T13:00:02-07:00Professional Athletes and Fans Team Up Year-Around
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<figcaption>Laurence Griffiths</figcaption>
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<p>Although the hearts of sports fans across America were broken this week when the valiant effort of our national futbol team ended in a painful loss, the American spirit lives on as professional athletes and fans team up year-around for communities nationwide.
</p> <p><a href="http://www.strikes4kids.org/">Strikes for Kids</a>, a non-profit organization that liaises with athletes across the U.S. to benefit community enrichment programs, is visiting San Diego this summer. The organization works with over 100 professional athletes nationwide to put on affordable events that allow families to give back to their communities while interacting with their favorite athletes.</p>
<p>On Friday, July 18th, Strikes for Kids will team up with Chargers RB Ryan Mathews in the <a href="http://www.ryanmathewsgolftournament.org/">Second Annual Ryan Mathews Golf Tournament</a>.<span> </span>The tournament is open to the public, with spectator passes starting as low as $30 per person.</p>
<p>The event will benefit the <a href="http://www1.usw.salvationarmy.org/usw/www_usw_sdm.nsf/vw-sublinks/AD19717C66179ACD88257B5000727EFF">Trish and Ryan Mathews Door of Hope Chest</a>, a local non-profit organization partnered with The Salvation Army and focused on helping homeless mothers in our community. The Salvation Army helps support participants in the program for up to 18 months while they work, save at least 80% of their income, and find their families a place to live. But anyone who has ever moved knows finding an apartment or house is only half the battle – there are furnishings and various items required to make a house a livable family home. Ryan and his mother Trish have committed themselves to fulfilling this need through their foundation.</p>
<p>To sign up for or support the Ryan Mathews Golf Tournament, please visit <a href="http://www.ryanmathewsgolftournament.org/" style="background-color: #ffffff;">http://www.ryanmathewsgolftournament.org/</a>.</p>
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https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/2014/7/4/5870153/the-american-spirit-lives-on-as-professional-athletes-and-fans-teamChristina Little2014-05-12T10:00:07-07:002014-05-12T10:00:07-07:00Local celebrities united to support local youth
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<p>A few days after the Wall Street Journal confirmed Warner Brothers’ plans to produce the super-hero packed "Justice League", San Diego’s own 'justice league' rolled up their sleeves and united in support of San Diego County’s STAR/PAL.</p> <p><span>A few days after the Wall Street Journal confirmed Warner Brothers’ plans to produce the super-hero packed <a href="http://A%20few%20days%20after%20the%20Wall%20Street%20Journal%20confirmed%20Warner%20Brothers%E2%80%99%20plans%20to%20produce%20the%20super-hero%20packed%20">"Justice League", </a>San Diego’s own 'justice league' rolled up their sleeves and united in supp</span>ort of San Diego County’s Sports Training, Academics, Recreation/Police Athletic League ("STAR/PAL").</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt"><span>On Friday, May 2<sup>nd</sup> members of San Diego’s law enforcement, Padres, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers">Chargers</a>, and other local celebrities slipped on aprons, served lunch, and collected tips at the 14<sup>th</sup> Annual <a href="http://www.starpal.org/">STAR/PAL</a> Celebrity Waiter Luncheon.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt"><span> <span><a href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4436487/609.JPG" target="_blank"><img class="photo" alt="609_medium" src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4436487/609_medium.JPG"></a></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt"><span>STAR/PAL’s programs serve the youth of San Diego who don’t have access to the resources they so deserve. By providing a variety of year-round educational programs, STAR/PAL aims to, "</span><span>empower underserved youth to build a safer and more prosperous community."</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt"><span>One of the several Chargers in attendance, (DE) <span>Kendall Reyes</span>, had an infectious enthusiasm for the cause. In a chaotic prep room, he rallied behind his comrades and autographed anything he could find. The memorabilia was then stashed by San Diego's celebrity servers to surprise the paying guests. The local super stars then humbly marched in to a room of enthusiastic guests at the Joe and Vi Jacobs Center and collected tips to support STAR/PAL and its programs.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt"><span><span> <span><a href="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4436519/633.JPG" target="_blank"><img class="photo" alt="633_medium" src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4436519/633_medium.JPG"></a></span><span><span><span><span><span><a href="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/4436559/586.JPG" target="_blank"> </a> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a style="background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4436559/586.JPG" target="_blank"><img class="photo" alt="586_medium" src="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4436559/586_medium.JPG"></a><img class="photo" alt="618_medium" src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4436567/618_medium.JPG"></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt"><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><a></a></span><a href="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/4436551/679.JPG" target="_blank"><img class="photo" alt="679_medium" src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4436551/679_medium.JPG"></a></span><a href="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4436543/667.JPG" target="_blank"></a></span><a href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4436511/621.JPG" target="_blank"></a><span><a href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4436503/599.JPG" target="_blank"><img class="photo" alt="599_medium" src="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/4436503/599_medium.JPG"></a></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt"><span>Reyes, who is regularly involved in the community, said Dick Lewis, Director of Player Outreach (former long-time Director of Security), connected with him about a year ago and inspired him to give back to San Diego. Every Thursday afternoon, a group (led by Lewis) heads down to the Salvation Army helping feed homeless San Diegans and mentoring teens from the McAllister Institute. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt"><span>Chargers Fullback reserve <span>Zach Boren</span>, who has only been in San Diego a few weeks, said his community involvement began when he was at Ohio State. Boren said, "(Within) the first couple days when I came out here, I talked to Chase (Hartman) and all the people who orchestrate all the community outreach and told them right away I wanted to be involved. It’s a great way to reach out to people and make different connections – I wanted to get involved right away." </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt"><span><span>While the arms-reach of social media make it effortless for celebrities to publicize their good deeds, Reyes says, "It’s not about the publicity, but connecting with the people. I have no problem being the background being behind stuff - whatever I can do to help out. At the end of the day, it’s all about helping people."</span></span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt"><span>The efforts of PAL reach far beyond San Diego; the nationwide organization has been leading community chapters throughout the U.S. and providing educational activities for at-risk youth for over 70 years. If you would like to contribute to San Diego’s STAR/PAL, please visit <a href="http://www.starpal.org/"><u><font color="#0000ff">www.starpal.org</font></u></a>.</span></p>
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https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/2014/5/12/5705712/san-diego-justice-league-chargers-padres-aztecsChristina Little2014-05-01T08:00:12-07:002014-05-01T08:00:12-07:00WR Eddie Royal Will Turn Coach This Summer
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<p>Since reuniting with his former offensive coordinator and restructuring his contract, San Diego Chargers Wide Receiver Eddie Royal appears to be settling in to San Diego in more ways than one.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span>On June 7</span><sup style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">th</sup><span> the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers">Chargers</a> WR will turn coach and h</span><span>ost his first two-day youth professional football camp at Junipero Serra High School.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span><span>Royal</span> will be accompanied by San Diego’s top high school and college coaches to lead participants in small, group-based activities, covering both the fundamentals and the finer points of America’s favorite pastime.</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><span>We scored a special deal with ProCamps, and by using promo code "Royal11" BFTB readers will save 10%, AND $15 from every registration will go directly toward supporting the attendance of a child from a local active military family. <b></b></span></p>
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<p>Now that’s almost as sweet as the 2013 Chargers <a style="background-color: #ffffff;" href="http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-game-highlights/0ap2000000244775/Week-2-Chargers-vs-Eagles-highlights%20">Royal-led victory over the Eagles</a>!</p>
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<p class="MsoNormal"><span>The camp is open to boys and girls grades 1-8. For more information, and to register, visit</span><span><span><a href="http://www.procamps.com/eddieroyal"> </a><a href="http://www.procamps.com/eddieroyal" target="_blank">EddieRoyalCamp.com</a>.</span></span></p>
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https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/2014/5/1/5669336/eddie-royal-to-coach-first-youth-football-pro-campChristina Little2014-04-15T08:00:04-07:002014-04-15T08:00:04-07:00Bolt to the Q: Who's Ready to Run?
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<p>Limited registration for the fourth annual Kaiser Permanente Bolt to the Q is open. Race proceeds will benefit The Trish & Ryan Mathews’ Door of Hope Chest.</p> <p>Last Thursday the Chargers announced the date for their fourth annual Kaiser Permanente <i>Bolt to the Q</i> 5K & Kids 1K Fun Run. The race will take place on Sunday, July 20th, starting in the Qualcomm Stadium parking lot and ending on the team's 50-yard line.</p>
<p>While running Qualcomm Stadium may not be on every runner’s "bucket list," running across the 50-yard line, alongside your favorite running back, is certainly on the list of every NFL fan.</p>
<p>As in years past, Chargers Running Back, Ryan Mathews will join runners to help raise funds for the foundation he started with his mother, The Trish & Ryan Mathews’ Door of Hope Chest. The foundation, which is overseen by the Salvation Army, helps homeless mothers and children get the support and resources needed to change their lives.</p>
<p>In <a href="http://www.chargers.com/news/article-1/%E2%80%9CBolt-to-the-Q%E2%80%9D-5K-Registration-Opens-Today/c6a93af1-b855-41a8-800c-a385fc2c1cfd">the official Chargers news release</a>, Mathews said, "I know first-hand what these moms endure because my mother and I were homeless for a short time when I was little." He continued, "I wouldn't have the life I have now if it wasn't for my mom getting a helping hand and then doing everything she could to support me, even working three jobs. So I encourage all levels of runners to sign-up for the Bolt to the Q because it’s not just fun, it also helps families get the support they need."</p>
<p>I personally hope you will join <a href="https://www.raceit.com/Register/default.aspx?newgroup=true&event=26925&cat=98508">The Little Team</a> and register at <a href="http://chargers5k.com/chargers">Chargers5K.com</a>! Don’t let the name fool you; so long as the race isn't sold out, there is no size limit to our team! Register by Tuesday, April 15th and save $5 dollars – you can stick that extra cash in your piggy bank and put it towards the San Diego brews served at the post-race tailgate party (21+, of course). See you at the Q!</p>
https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/2014/4/15/5614804/san-diego-chargers-open-registration-for-the-2014-bolt-to-the-qChristina Little2014-04-01T08:00:03-07:002014-04-01T08:00:03-07:00Union Bank & Chargers Give Back with Game Changers
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<figcaption>Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODA</figcaption>
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<p>Union Bank and the San Diego Chargers do big things with a little spare change. </p> <p>In the 2013-14 football season, Union Bank and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers" class="sbn-auto-link">San Diego Chargers</a> took their long-standing relationship to a new level by launching Game Changers, a program which offers fans on game day an interactive way to give back to the San Diego community by donating spare change to the Game Changers Change Mobile. The generosity of fans, complimented by the Chargers organization, raised $15,000, which was equally dispersed to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego, San Diego Armed Services YMCA, and San Diego Center for Children.</p>
<p>"This is another example of outstanding support and caring hearts among Chargers fans as well as our friends from Union Bank," said Chargers Executive Vice President and CEO A.G. Spanos. "It’s great how something as simple as loose change can make a difference."</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/4218455/GameChangersMobile01.jpg"><img src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4218455/GameChangersMobile01_medium.jpg" class="photo" alt="Gamechangersmobile01_medium"></a></p>
<p>On Monday, March 31st, representatives from Union Bank, San Diego Chargers, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego, San Diego Armed Services YMCA, and San Diego Center for Children gathered at a press conference to formally present the contributions made.</p>
<p>Chargers Center, <span>Nick Hardwick</span>, gave a special thanks to fans saying, "Mostly thank you to the San Diego Chargers fans who are already giving up enough to come out on the weekends to come and support us as players and the organization. They’ve given up a lot of money, a lot of time, and a lot of effort and energy just to get there - and then they are willing to give just a little bit more to the kids of San Diego County who really deserve it."</p>
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<p>In a conversation about parenthood, Hardwick referred to his own two kids saying, "My goal as a parent is to help [my kids] get to where they want to be … I want them to be the best they can be." He added, "Whatever they are passionate about, I want to help them smooth that path and get there and be as productive of citizens as they can be."</p>
<p>The funds raised by the Game Changers program will help families around San Diego who, like Nick, want to "smooth" life's path for their children. Each respective organization will use the donation to fund a variety of projects that promote healthy lifestyles, aid the lives of military families, and create essential programs for at-risk children and teens. Nick closed out the press conference saying, "I just think this is a fantastic program - year one raising $15,000. So moving in to year two, let’s see how big this can get! Let’s keep it going!"</p>
<p>In a playing field full of unpredictable audibles, it is nice to see local businesses, the Chargers, and fans partner to put in to place the kind of game changers guaranteed to keep us all winning!</p>
https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/2014/4/1/5568460/union-bank-and-chargers-keep-san-diego-winning-with-game-changersChristina Little2014-03-13T12:00:03-07:002014-03-13T12:00:03-07:00An Open Letter to Ryan Mathews
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<figcaption>Ezra Shaw</figcaption>
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<p>The following is a fan's heart-felt public apology to San Diego Chargers' running back, Ryan Mathews. </p> <p>Dear Ryan,</p>
<p>Hi, I'm Christina, San Diego native and true-blue (and gold) <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers">Chargers</a> fan. August through January, my Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays revolve around Charger games. I try to convert nearly every person I meet into a Chargers fan, and when we lose I cry like I'm five and someone just told me the Care Bears aren't real - a short lifetime of dreams destroyed.</p>
<p>Now that I have formally introduced myself, I want to make sure you are seated comfortably before proceeding. This isn't the type of letter you read from your phone while waiting at Starbucks or in the bathroom when you need a couple extra potty minutes. Nope, this heart-felt, uninhibited, fan confession and apology is most appropriately enjoyed in a plush recliner with an ice-cold beverage.</p>
<p>What I am about to say to you is not easy. In fact, it's embarrassing and horribly humbling. Ryan, I have not been kind to you. You surely do not know it, but I spent the majority of years 2010-2012 vexed with you. A feeling that inappropriately and ignorantly manifested into my snickering at "fumble-ina" jokes, doubtfully glaring at you on the sidelines of Chargers' Training Camp, vilifying you at tailgate parties, and in March 2013 (while misspelling your name) taking to the world-wide-web saying:</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/4119839/photo_insert.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Photo_insert_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/assets/4119839/photo_insert_medium.png"></a></p>
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<p><b>Ryan, I was rude, and I was very wrong.</b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p>You should know this letter is not driven by a spiritual sports journey or a support program for survivors of the Norv-AJ era, this letter is something I felt obliged to do after the tremendous 2013-14 season you had and after learning more about your journey to the NFL.</p>
<p>In a recently found opportunity to write for Bolts from the Blue, my two cousins and I chose to make it our mission to cover <a href="http://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/2014/2/25/5445052/little-fam-big-fans-bftbs-new-street-team">the good things Chargers do in our community</a>. Our<a href="http://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/2014/3/2/5460362/a-talk-over-tots-with-ladainian-tomlinson-and-other-local-heroes"> first story on LT</a>, and <a href="http://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/2014/3/2/5459222/ladainian-tomlinson-returns-to-san-diego-to-fight-hunger">his fight against hunger</a> in San Diego, indirectly led me to you, your story, and your community involvement.</p>
<p>At the close of the Chargers' 2013-14 season, for the first time, I felt a sense of relief and pride knowing you would be our running back in 2014. I saw you play the season with the gusto, passion, and fire many fans had been waiting for. In the December 12<sup>th</sup> game against Denver, you celebrated <a href="http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-game-highlights/0ap2000000297340/Mathews-23-yard-touchdown">a 23-yard touchdown</a> with the signature "LT ball flip." At that moment an electric surge of excitement came over me, and I thought, "He did it - he's our running back!"</p>
<p>These feelings of pride and new-found admiration for you were only reinforced after researching your involvement with the Salvation Army and the <a href="http://www1.usw.salvationarmy.org/usw/www_usw_sdm.nsf/vw-sublinks/AD19717C66179ACD88257B5000727EFF">program you and your mom founded</a> to aid homeless families in San Diego. Even more so, once learning of the circumstances you've had to overcome - including your own experience with homelessness - I really felt like a jerk.</p>
<p>Please accept my sincerest apologies and my gratitude - you believed in San Diego before San Diego believed in you. We could all learn and thing or two from the dedication, work ethic, and compassion you've shown. In the 2014-15 season, even more than applauding your work on the field, I hope to continue to be able to write about all the great things you do for our wonderful city.</p>
<p>Keep up the good work, my friend! Now you can focus on the backfield, and know there are a few Little fans who have your back.</p>
<p>Sincerely,</p>
<p>Christina Little</p>
https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/2014/3/13/5494966/an-open-letter-to-chargers-rb-ryan-mathewsChristina Little