Appreciating Deena Fagiano

I haven't written about former Chicago Bliss football player Deena Fagiano in a while. This might be my last post about Deena because this is my last unused picture with her. We need that Bliss reunion!

Deena played offensive line, tight end and maybe a little running back, too. She was a real team player and obviously one of my favorites. I probably interviewed Deena more than any other player except Dominique Collins.

I had so many interviews with both, because they were always willing to do them. I wasn't exactly ESPN, but they always gave me their time and seemed to appreciate the coverage. Their interviews were always, fun, too.

A few years back, Deena got married and now they have a beautiful little girl. It's great seeing her happy family through occasional social media posts.

People can laugh at the women's football league, but these women were as tough as could be. They practiced hard and often, just to play a handful of games. Coach Keith Hac led a squad dedicated to winning and they won often.

I had a great time covering the team. It was one of the most fun experiences I have had. I have so many fun memories. I thank Deena and the entire team for a lot of fun.

Deena Fagiano and me in Bridgeview, IL-May 2015.

Shiny Hardware: LFL Legends Cup

I featured the Legends Football League Legends Cup a while back, but this is a special picture. I had to go all the way to Los Angeles, California to get this picture on the field with the Legends Football League Legends Cup. What a trip it was though.

Jack and I flew out to LA and hung with the Chicago Bliss prior to the game. How often do you get to be on a pro field, let alone before a championship game? We watched the game from the press box and from the end zone. It was an amazing experience.

I took a picture with the Legends Cup prior to the game, but everyone knew the Bliss would win it. After the game, it was pandemonium.

I will always appreciate Coach Keith Hac, his tsaff, all the players and Jack for this great season. It's always a thrill to cover a championship season. 

The LFL title Cup in Los Angeles, CA-September 2017.

Heather Furr, Still A Rock Star

When I first started covering the Legends Football League Chicago Bliss, I met a few of the team at a sports convention. quarterback-safety Heather Furr was one of the four. That first interview is at On the Beat With Heather Furr 2014.

Like a lit of the events I cover, I had no idea how much I would end up enjoying the experience. I covered the Bliss for several years.

At the time of that first interview, I had not seen the team in action. Once I did, I saw the team was much more than beautiful women in skimpy uniforms. It all started with Heather.

She was as tough as could be. Not to take anything away from her athleticism, but her play exceeded her abilities. She made things happen. She was a real leader.

Flash forward many years, Heather is now in the real estate business. On the Johngy OR Else Podcast, Tommy Else and I interviewed Heather. That interview is at On the Beat With Heather Furr 2022.

Doesn't Heather look the same? I bet she could still lead a team to a touchdown. Winners don't lose that quality.

I am so happy I was able to do this update interview. I was able to publicly thank Heather for all she did. She was always up for an interview and always gave great answers.

Thank you again to Heather for everything. You'll always be a rockstar!

Tommy Else, Heather Furr and me in Hoffman Estates, IL-May 2014.

Shiny Hardware: Legends Football Cup

As I have well-documented here over the years, I have covered and been a big fan of the Legends Football League Chicago Bliss for years. Perhaps the high point was going to Los Angeles, California in 2014 to watch them win the Legends Cup.

The following year, I went to the open tryout for the next season. There was the shiny Legends Cup, in all of its glory. Of course, I had to get a picture with this beautiful thing.

Obviously, I had nothing to do with actually winning the Legends Cup, but I will say I was the most consistent and visible media member over the years. In other words, they couldn't get rid of me. Actually, the Bliss organization was very hospitable to me over the years. They players and coaches gave a lot of fun interviews (and many other fun chats not recorded).

All of my interviews with the Bliss over the years can be found on my Johngy's Beat Chicago Bliss YouTube playlist.

The Legends Football League Cup in Bridgeview, IL-January 2015.

Deena Fagiano and the Chicago Bliss

Before the year ended, I had to make my yearly post about Deena Fagiano and the Chicago Bliss. I'm running low on unused pictures though.

I started coving the Chicago Bliss of the then-Lingerie Football League in 2012. It was easy for anyone to dismiss the woman and league as models trying to pay football. Don't let the league name fool you though. While there certainly were a few women who fit that description in the earlier years of the league, nobody would call anyone on the Bliss just a model.

The Bliss certainly were full of attractive women, but they were elite athletes. Make no mistake about that. Most were college athletes at some point. Look at my many previous posts about the Bliss and you will see who they were and what they did.

Offensive line-tight end Deena was one of my favorites right from the start. Deena was not at a stats position, therefore going under the radar in the stats categories. Heather Furr was the rockstar QB. ChrisDell Harris was the dynamite running back. Alli Alberts was the world class receiver. Yashi Rice was the menacing defender. They all earned stats and headlines.

Meanwhile, Deena did her job of opening holes or blocking defenders, occasionally catching a pass. Someone has to do that type of grunt work and Deena was perfect. She was also a great interview, fun with the fans and a good representative of the team and league.

We had a lot of fun back then. I was lucky enough to be around this team for several years. I miss all of them.

The league is not the X League and the Bliss is now the Blitz. I don't cover them as much, but I still support any women athlete.

Deena Fagiano and me in Bridgeview, IL-March 2015.

Friend Encounters: Statue Week: Bridget Mac & Scottie Pippen Statue

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities. This is also Statue Week. All week I am featuring some beautiful statues. This is a special Friend Encounters Statue Week edition. This is a special Statues Week edition of Friend Encounters.

Today's picture features two champions. Scottie Pippen won six championships with the Chicago Bulls and is Hall of Fame bound at some point. Always obviously overshadowed by Michael Jordan, Pippen still made the list of the Top 50 NBA players of all time. Being second banana to MJ is good and bad, but nobody can deny Pippen's talent.

Bridget Mac didn't win six championships, but she did win a Legends Football League title with the Chicago Bliss and I got to watch it happen. Bridget was the "Voice of the Rookies," always up for a fun interview.

When the Bliss won the Legends Cup several years back, each player got to spend a week with the actual Cup. Bridget took hers to the United Center for a photo op with the statue of Pippen. That makes this a Statue Week feature and a Trophy Week feature!

Bridget Mac in Chicago, IL-October 2014.

Caitlin Jo Burke Needs Help

I first met Caitlin Jo Burke in 2015 when I was covering the Chicago Bliss women's pro football team. A lifetime athlete in several sports, CJB was as tough as could be on the field and as sweet and fun as could be off the field.

I haven't seen Caitlin since that season, but I have followed her online. Unfortunately, her update last October was a bad one.

Caitlin went in for a hip surgery. Her health issues started shortly after the operation.

After dozens of tests, she was diagnosed with MOGAD. Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody disease is a neurological, immune-mediated demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system causing inflammation and potential damage to the optic nerve, spinal cord, brain and brainstem. Obviously, it is a very serious condition. While still learning, treating and battling that, CJB was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Caitlin is 32 and as an athlete, was seemingly in great shape. Now, Caitlin fights to regain her life. She is a fighter though and optimistic. She will do everything possible to get through and get better.

Caitlin could use help though. Caitlin has a GoFundMe page. If you're a friend, former teammate or fan, reach out to her. Send her your thoughts, vibes, prayers and good wishes.

I have invited Caitlin to share her story and progress here any time. Of course, she isn't ready to do that yet, but I hope she eventually will because her story can help others, too.

I will provide updates here as things develop. Until then, I wish the best for Caitlin. Stay strong, CJB. You got this!

 Caitlin Jo Burke and me in Bridgeview, IL-Spring 2015.

On the Beat With Jade Austin of the Chicago Blitz

X League Chicago Blitz safety Jade Austin had an interesting season. Preseason reports called her “the most complete safety” in the league. A few months later, she fulfilled that promise hoisting the X Cup, while being named the championship game MVP. Yesterday, I talked to her about the amazing season and more at On the Beat With Jade Austin for EveryDayFan.com.

A native of Wisconsin, Austin played a lot of amateur sports, but never played competitive football until she tried out for the Blitz. A few years back, that tryout probably would have been with the Green Bay Chill, but with the Chill gone, Austin crossed the border to pursue her football goal. Wisconsin's loss is Chicago's gain.

The pandemic derailed her journey, as the X League went on hiatus. When the league returned, Austin and the Blitz were more than ready. Despite the lack of games, the Blitz stayed in game mode, preparing for the return.

Austin talked about the challenges and advantages of the long wait for football to restart. As is the history of the Blitz (Bliss), the team is known for its preparedness. She also candidly discussed the small amount of games last season and we both agreed, we hope for more games next season.

Similarly, Austin talked about the preseason appreciation she received. I questioned if the high praise and expectations put more pressure on her or her opponents. Austin discussed both possibilities. She stated she felt her game did not fully come together until the championship game though. The X Cup MVP trophy shows she did fulfill expectations.</p>

As I did when I interviewed Emma Vanderheyden, her Blitz teammate, I had to joke a bit about championship rings, as I showed off my 2014 ring, courtesy of former Coach Keith Hac and the 2014 team. Austin and the rest of the team have not received their 2022 rings yet, but I'm sure the shiny jewelry will be well-received when they do.

I ended with the big question of her return in 2023. Blitz fans will be happy to know Austin, like Vanderheyden, plans on returning to defend the X League title. After I stated my intention of seeing her at practice next season, she joked we can compare rings then.I thank Austin for her time and consideration. I also appreciate her part in bringing another championship to Chicago. Check back here on The Every Day Fan for more similar interviews and our coverage of the X League.

On the Beat With Emma Vanderheyden of the Chicago Blitz

My history with the Chicago Blitz goes back to 2013, when the (then) Bliss played in the newly rebranded Legends Football League. A new chapter was written recently when the Blitz beat the Atlanta Steam to become X League (rebranded from the LFL) champs.

Blitz safety Emma Vanderheyden is one of the players carrying on the legacy created by four time champion coach Keith Hac, QB Heather Furr, ChrisDell Harris and the rest of the Bliss. Sidney Lewis is coaching this new bunch of players, but the results are the same. Chicago is once again champion. I talked to Vanderheyden about all of this in our recent interview at On the Beat With Emma Vanderheyden.

A multi-sport athlete, Vanderheyden is a native of Rockford, about 90 minutes west of Chicago. She is a veteran of football, having played high level flag football and full tackle women's football before joining the Chicago Blitz.

Since, the uniforms have been a source of much discussion over the years, I had to ask Vanderheyden for her thoughts. She pretty much echoed the response I have gotten from previous players.

I always looked at the uniforms as a double-edge sword. On one hand, they certainly are attention-getting. Yet on the other side, they sometimes take attention away from the talent and quality of football being played.

Another regular topic is the amount of games. This season, the X League teams played only two games. While that is a small amount, in the aftermath of the pandemic, at least the league is back on track. Knowing Coach Lewis, it just gave him more time to prepare the Blitz.

Vanderheyden gave her thoughts on the time and effort put into playing just two games. It's right here when her passion really is palpable.

These women have organized workouts for months, but pretty much work out all year, to play the sport they love. Two games is a disappointing schedule, but it doesn't make them any less determined or focused.

Much like players in the past, Vanderheyden speaks of the preparation of Coach Lewis and his staff. That's not just player speak either. I saw firsthand how hard Coach Hac and his coaches worked and I see Coach Lewis doing the same.

I often hear folks ask how and why everyone works so hard for so few games and little recognition. The answer is simple. It's the passion I just mentioned. This isn't a casual activity. This is a mission.

In interviews from the Rockford area when the Blitz played its game there, Vanderheyden spoke about the legacy. I asked her about her place in carrying the banner and helping younger women and future generations.

Lastly, Vanderheyden talked about meeting fans and signing autographs. The first couple times might have been a pleasant surprise, but Vanderheyden and her teammates better get used to it, because fans want their moment with their favorite players.

Along those lines, fans will get a great chance to meet the team Friday, September 23. There is a Blitz championship party at Society on the near west side of Chicago.

Before we finished, we engaged in a little fun banter about championship rings. I flashed my 2014 ring, but soon she will have a shiny new one on her finger and it is well-deserved!

I thank Vanderheyden for her time and consideration. Once again, I congratulate her and the team for bringing another championship to Chicago. Check back here and TheEveryDayFan.com for my recurring coverage of the Blitz.

Friend Encounters: Coop, Jess Price and DiA'ndra Frye

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities.

Today's feature goes back to the glory days of the Chicago Bliss. Playing in the Legends Football League, the Bliss had won consecutive league championships. Players Jess Price and DiA'ndra Frye were rookies in 2014.

Similarly, the Schaumburg Boomers had won championships in 2013 and '14. Founded in 2011, the Boomers gained a lot of success and fans early on. Brining in Jess and DiA'dra to toss a first pitch had to help. Had I known, I would have been there. I love my Bliss athletes!

The mascot of the Schaumburg Boomers is Coop, a prairie chicken. Legend states Coop was born in the shadows of Mt. Rushmore. Coop's ancestors are a variety of birds that used to live on prairies throughout the midwest. Greater Prairie Chickens are known for their dances. Coop took his dancing all over, eventually landing in Schaumburg, because he was attracted to the baseball hats featuring Greater Prairie Chickens.

While they weren't chickens, Coop seemed very happy to be surrounded by Jess and DiA'dra. I'm not sure how the pitch went, but I would bet the players did great. I know they wouldn't be afraid. If you've seen them on the football field, you know they were never chicken.

The Boomers open their season May 13. Go to BoomersBaseball.com for more info. Check back here for more recurring mascot fun.

Jess Price, Coop and DiA'ndra Frye in Schaumburg, IL-Summer 2014.

On the Beat With Heather Furr

I first met Heather Furr at a sports convention in 2013. Heather was with a few teammates promoting the Chicago Bliss, a women's pro football team. I interviewed Heather, the first of many I would get with her over the next few years.

The quarterback and a defensive back, Heather was the heart and soul of  the Bliss. Nicknamed “The Rock Star,” Heather always brought swagger, whether she wore a cape for pre-game introductions, chugged a beer after a touchdown or in the face of bigger opponents. Don't let that showmanship fool you though. Heather was completely focused on winning.

Heather was one of the fiercest competitors I have ever seen. Like all truly elite athletes, she had the will to win. The Bliss and Heather never got the respect they deserved around the league. Heather might not have had the strongest arm of the quarterbacks, but her overall skill set combined with her drive made her the best quarterback. No QB brought more to the field than Heather.

During her time with the Bliss, Heather was part of the cast of Pretty. Strong., a reality show featuring the Bliss. She also competed on the Steve Austin Broken Skull Challenge show. Fast forward several years, Heather is now a married mom of a beautiful little rock star and the Director of Residential Sales at McCann Properties.

When Tommy Else and I were discussing potential guests for The Johngy “Or Else” Podcast, I immediately thought of Heather. Having been to a few Bliss games, practices and events, Tommy was familiar with Heather and the team. When I reached out to Heather, she graciously agreed to join us for a fun chat.

We talked about all of the above. We shared several laughs and relived a few fun moments.

It was great seeing Heather again. It was even better seeing her happy and doing well. I have no doubt she will be a success in real estate.

One thing that stood out to me near the end of the interview was typical Heather. We, of course, told her she could promote her real estate business. Heather gave her info, but quickly added she would gladly help anyone with real estate questions or issues, even if it did not lead to business together. There's Heather, the ultimate teammate. When you have a superstar, who is willing to put others first, you have a real winner. Heather is a real winner.

It was a lot of fun catching up with Heather. Above all, I am glad I got the chance to publicly thank her for many good times and interviews over the years. It was really wonderful for me to have that time with Heather yesterday. I hope Heather knows how much I appreciate and respect her for everything.

Tommy and I thank Heather for her time and consideration in our interview. We encourage anyone with any real estate needs to check out Heather online. Check out our interview at On the Beat With Heather Furr.

Friend Encounters: Heather Furr and Alli Alberts

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities.

Is today's feature really a Friend Encounter? Is a picture of two teammates really a celebrity encounter? It's my site and my rules, and I say it qualifies. Besides, it gives me another reason to write about two of my favorites from my years covering the Chicago Bliss of the Legends Football League.

Heather "Rockstar" Furr and Alli "Bert" Alberts were two key parts of the Bliss dynasty. Together they won multiple titles, collected many awards, received a lot of accolades and had a big fan base.

Heather was the quarterback and a natural leader. She wasn't the best pure QB in the league, nor did she possess the best QB skills, but she was a winner and as tough as could be. She was the female version of a healthy Jim McMahon. Heather knew how to play, knew how to market herself and the team and was just fun to watch. I would take Heather on my team every time!

Alli was Heather's favorite target. A star wide receiver, Alli also shined on defense. She had great hands and looked so smooth on the field. She could also mix it up with the toughest of them.

They were great solo and even better together. Best of all, they were incredibly nice people, who always had time for an interview or chat.

Several years removed from their playing days, Alli is well into her dentistry career and Heather is carving her niche in real estate. Both are married with one young one.

I have a lot of great memories of covering the Bliss. Actually, Heater and Alli were two of the first four Bliss players I ever interviewed at a sports convention in Rosemont in 2013. At the time, I didn't have a clue at how much fun was ahead.

I will always have great memories of Alli and Heather. I appreciate all they did on and off the field. I thank them for their time, consideration and friendship always.

Alli Alberts and Heather Furr in Chicago, IL-November 2017.

On the Beat With the Chicago Blitz

Women's football was back in Chicago, although briefly. A couple weeks ago, the X League Chicago Blitz held an open scrimmage for fans at the SeatGeek Stadium Dome in Bridgeview, Illinois. I was there “On the Beat” soaking up the action.

The X League and the Blitz have a fascinating history. In 2004, the Lingerie Bowl debuted as a pay-per-view event during the Super Bowl halftime show. In 2009, it was rebranded as the Lingerie Football League and expanded to ten teams playing actual games. In 2013, as the league focused more on football, it was rebranded again as the Legends Football League. In late 2019, it was once again rebranded to the Extreme Football League (or X League). Unfortunately, COVID-19 delayed the first season.

The Chicago Bliss was an LFL original team. The Bliss had tremendous success, winning four Legends Cups and being Conference champs six times. Coach Keith Hac led a team always a threat to take the tile. The Bliss were filled with league stars like Heather “Rockstar” Furr, ChrisDell “Ferrari” Harris, Alli Alberts, Yashi Rice, Dominique Collins, Deena Fagiano, Chantell Taylor Kim Perez and several others.

In 2019, with the rebrand, the Bliss became the Chicago Blitz. Sidney Lewis was named the new coach. Coach Lew had a few veterans like DeAnna Hightower and Javell Thompson to aid the transition, but he relied on mostly new players. This year was going to be an exciting year for the Blitz and I couldn't wait to watch women's football again.

A few weeks back, the Blitz announced they were having a scrimmage and it was open to fans. Of course, I was going to be there. Once again though, the ongoing pandemic reared its ugly head, causing the debut season to be postponed until 2022. Despite the disappointment of the postponement, the Blitz still held their scrimmage, to the delight of the many fans who watched from the sidelines of the Dome.

The Blitz ran through basic drills for about an hour. Next the team ran offensive plays for about 30 minutes, then switched up some players and ran more offensive pays for another half hour.

After the two hours on the field, the players were individually announced to the cheers of those in attendance. As the team left the field, I was able to get short interviews with Coach Lew and five players.

Coach Lew talked about why he wanted to coach women's football, what he enjoys the most about the league and why the players and the action are top notch. Coach Lew has a long coaching resume and is a great leader, both on and off the field. I really looked forward to what he would do with the team.

Next up was rookie Allie “Diesel” Koop. If you wonder why she is called Diesel, look at her on the field. I saw her carry a few players with her as she advanced the ball. Unbelievably, she is new to football. She has been a body builder, as her physique indicates and is heading into her first competition in a few weeks.

I got a three-fer interview with Brittany Baker, Victoria MDC and Stephanie Daniels. The athletes talked about why they want to play football and also their athletic backgrounds.

Last, I talked to team veteran DeAnna Hightower. DeAnna talked about the sisterhood on the team and being the elder statesman. I don't know her age (and I wouldn't reveal it if I did), but she proved she is as capable as others much younger.

The X League has a history filled with twists and turns, but the one consistent thing is the athletes. As Coach Lew stated so well, these women are elite athletes. Most have excelled at high levels in various sports, like Stephanie Raymond who played with the WNBA Chicago Sky.

These athletes play for the love of the game. They practice for many months, just to play a few regular season games. Those practices are legit battles, too. Just look at Koop in our interview. Clearly she worked her tail off at the scrimmage. These women don't have a cruising gear. It is all out.

It's a shame these women and the sport don't get more exposure. Every friend who attended a Bliss game at my urging always enjoyed the experience and returned. This is why I am happy Global Women's Sports Radio was started. I get to cover women's sports and share all with our viewers.

Thank you to Coach Lew for the invitation to the practice. Thanks to all who gave their time for our interviews. Despite the season's postponement, I don't think we've heard the end of the Blitz for 2021. Rest assured, whatever they might do, Global Women's Sports Radio will be there.

The interviews can be found at On the Beat With the Chicago Blitz. Check the Blitz and individual players on social media.

Congrats and Best Wishes to Dominique Collins

Tomorrow, Dominique Collins is getting married. I couldn't be happier for DC.

I have written many times about DC. She is the first player from the Chicago Bliss I interviewed at a game. DC is one of my favorite interviews and she is near the top of most interviews I have done. She is a four time Legends Football League champ with the Bliss. She is one of the hardest working, smartest and toughest competitors I have ever met on or off the field.

After finally retiring from the Bliss, DC moved to Texas. As sad as I was to see her leave the area, I was happy when I saw how happy she was. Then she met the man of her dreams and got even happier.

DC deserves every bit of happiness. I'd say her husband is a lucky guy, but I think they are both lucky to have found each other. 

I hope our paths cross again sometime. I'd love to see DC and give her a big hug. I appreciate all she did for me, including the many interviews. Meeting people like DC is one of the best parts of doing "Johngy's Beat."

Congratulations DC. I wish you a lifetime of happiness!

Dominique Collins and me in Bridgeview, IL-January 2015.

Friend Encounters: Clark, Ty Ali, Dominique Collins, Deena Fagiano and Matt Pike

Friend Encounters is a weekly series of my friends meeting celebrities.

This picture has everything. It's football players and a coach with a baseball mascot. It features two of my favorite Chicago Bliss players and two of my favorite interview subjects.

I covered the Bliss and the Legends Football League for years. It was a bumpy ride at times. The league wasn't very open to outside media. In fact, at one point I was criticized for being too positive about the Bliss.

First, the Bliss was the most positive thing about the LFL. They won four championships over the last decade. They had the biggest team, coaching staff and fan base.

Second, why would a league not want positive coverage? I wasn't telling lies. I was highlighting the best of the team and the league.

The league has since rebranded as the X League. I am sure it is a financial thing. It has been under criticism from former players and coaches. The pandemic caused the 2020 season to be canceled. It will be interesting to see what happens in 2021.

All of the controversy aside, I made great friends in Dominique Collins and Deena Fagiano, two of the stars of the Bliss and two of my favorite interview subjects. I only met Coach Pike a few times, but we had fun conversations and I remember him from his days as quarterback at Purdue.

I will always have fun memroies of the Bliss. I hope to remain friends with DC, Deena and several others and I look forward to seeing where their careers go.

Covering the Bliss wasn't always easy, but I had a lot of fun. Sometimes, you just take the good and forget the bad.

Ty Ali, Dominique Collins, Clark, Deena Fagiano and Matt Pike in Chicago, IL-July 2016.

Rest In Peace Jacinda Barclay

Earlier this week, I woke up to the terribly sad news that Jacinda Barclay died. All social media feeds were filled with messages of love and sadness over Jacinda's passing.

Born in 1991 in Australia, Jacinda played baseball, Australian football, and American football at the highest levels. She not only played, she excelled at all, playing for the Australian national team in five Women's Baseball World Cups, the Chicago Bliss in the Legends Football League and Greater Western Sydney in the AFL Women's competition.

A right-handed pitcher, Jacinda made her state debut for Western Australia at the age of 15 at the 2006 national championships. Jacinda played for the Australian national team in the 2008 World Cup at the age of 17. She won a silver medal at the 2010 World Cup and played in the World Cup three more times.

At the young age of 12, Jacinda began playing Australian football. Jacinda played with the New South Wales Surge for the inaugural 2013–14 season of LFL Australia. Leading the Surge to the title, she earned the Best Offensive Player award. In 2016, she joined the Chicago Bliss and won another championship.

Jacinda worked hard on and off the field. Over the years, she held several jobs, juggling her various schedules to make a living and still play the sports she loved. She was an assistant life-support technician, who worked off-shore for two-to-five weeks at a time, a laborer, a ward clerk at a private hospital and other roles. Above all, she was a gifted athlete who worked tirelessly to be the best.

Global Women's Sports Radio founder Henry Gee interviewed Jacinda several years ago. That interview is even more special now. 

I didn't know Jacinda very well. I do know she was a tremendously positive person, who exuded energy. Jacinda's impact and legacy go well beyond statistics, awards and championships. Rather than me trying to properly honor her memory, I am turning to friends and former teammates who knew her better.

Former Chicago Bliss teammate Deena Fagiano wrote, “Devastated, my heart is broken. The world has lost the brightest light, most badass athlete, and amazing friend Jacinda Barclay. 

I am honored to have had you in my life and play along side you. Your energy was Infectious and I will always be inspired by your determination.

Your bravery to travel around the world to lead a team you had never met always continues to impress me and I will always have incredible respect for you. You Always Always made me laugh by doing some goofy "Aussie" something and I will continue to hold on to those memories forever!

RIP girl. Love you and you will always be missed.”

Former Chicago Bliss teammate Dominique Collins wrote, “Speechless and devastated. The world will no longer feel your electrifying energy. The world has lost someone very, very special today. Cinda Barclay you are hands down the hardest worker I've ever met. The entire world is devastated. You've touched so many lives with your compassion, sense of humor and leadership. You played National Baseball, Australian and American Football and have championships with all of them. You are literally untouchable. I thank God I was blessed to have you as a teammate and I pray I get to corner blitz on you when we play again someday.

RIP Jacinda. We love you.”

Former Chicago Bliss teammate Yashi Rice wrote, “You were a gift to the world. Rest well teammate.”

Former Surge teammate Bonnie Gillespie wrote, “Love you always and forever Cinda Barclay. 

Yesterday brought heartache for family, Friends, Supporters/fans many all over the world . 

Receiving a message this morning, I dropped my phone in shock...disbelief as I recently  spoke with her. I couldn't believe it and was saying to myself "it cant be true!” Cinda your smile, your welcoming free loving heart, your positive personality, your uplifting spirit, the way you spoke to people, your patience, your peaceful aura didn't have to leave us.”

Former Surge teammate Shari Olney wrote, “My heart is broken, this hurts so badly, words cannot suffice. 

Your smile and laugh lit up every room. You gave everyone the time of day. A true individual, a free spirited, unique beauty and a wonderful loyal friend.

Your sporting prowess was admirable, no short cuts, no excuses, a warrior mentality, that ethic always resonated with me. Sport brought us together, but the ability to create a deep human connection and laugh until our bellies ached kept our friendship alive long after. 

You were supportive, resilient and always the optimist. You were an Inspiration to many, you’ll always be my sunshine. My sincerest condolences go out to your family. I know I won’t meet anyone quite like you and I’ll never forget you my JBomb Cinda Barclay”

Former Bliss QB coach Matt Pike stated, "I’m sitting here writing this with a broken heart and tears in my eyes. A lot of you have seen posts and videos of my amazing friend and qb Cinda Barclay, and I am saddened to share she has passed on. 

She was one of the most competitive, hard working, relentless on her pursuit to be the best. 

When I was struggling and few years ago, she always had something to say that made it better for me, she always just had a way to communicate positively about things with honesty. She was a true friend, teammate, leader, and comedian. 

This one hurts and I’m at a loss for words. 

I’m truly gonna miss our talks via FaceTime and that West Aussie accent. Love you my friend.”

Lastly, former Chicago Bliss Head Coach Keith Hac wrote a beautifully heartfelt, lengthy statement on Facebook. He started with, “I write this story with a broken heart.” Coach Hac then wrote of his history with Jacinda. He summed it poignantly with his last paragraph. “As a coach you see players come and go. Some impact more then others. For all the right reasons, Jacinda will forever be one of those that I will never forget and I am a better person for knowing her for the amount of time I did. You will be missed.”

I debated how I wanted to write this story. I wanted to give a brief biography on Jacinda, but I wasn't sure what else I could write to honor Jacinda in the best way. Then I realized it was better to let others write the most important parts.

Jacinda touched so many lives. She left everyone with warm memories that go beyond the football field. Jacinda will be missed terribly, but will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace, Jacinda Barclay.

Jacinda Barclay, Kristin Kampa, Deena Fagiano, Rosanne Ocampo, me and Dominique Collins in Chicago, IL-April 2016.

Where Are They: Heather Furr Chicago Bliss

Heather Furr was a star player for the Chicago Bliss of the Legends Football League. "Rockstar" was a two-time MVP and a two-time LFL champ.

In one of the many great mysteries of the LFL, Heather never got the real respect she deserved from the league. She was the face of the Bliss and possibly even the league, yet the powers that be in the LFL seemed to want to keep her down.

Heather was as tough as could be. While she lacked arm strength and pure QB ability, she was smart, gritty and competitive beyond. She was a winner and I would go into battle with Heather any day. Her appearance on Steve Austin's Broken Skull Challenge was as impressive as anything I have seen in sports and she didn't even win. From her confidence to her strategy to her determination, Heather more than proved how tough she is.

It's hard to believe it has been several years since Heather played for the Bliss. Heather is still active in the Chicago area, but in a new field. She is a realtor at Keller Williams Premiere Properties in Glen Ellyn. Heather is doing great and is also planning for her wedding later this year.

If you have any real estate needs in the Chicago area, check out Keller Williams - Glen Ellyn on Facebook. You can also follow Heather on all forms of social media. 

Heather Furr and me in Chicago, IL-August 2015.

Heather Furr and the Legends Football League

A couple weeks ago, the Legends Football League announced there would be no 2020 season for the league. It is unclear at this time if the LFL will be back in 2021 or ever.

My association with the Chicago Bliss began in 2013. I met and interviewed Heather Furr, Alli Alberts, Vejurnae Leal and Tracy Barnes at a sports convention. I covered the team on and off since then.

If it was my choice, I would have covered the tram consistently throughout the years, but LFL management had their way of doing things and outside media wasn't always welcome.

You might ask why a league with so little coverage would turn away any media outlets. I asked that question many times to many people involved in the LFL. I never got a great answer. They always wanted me to do some coverage, but in the later years, it was only on their terms.

Lack of media coverage is certainly part of the reason why the LFL is inactive for now. Lack of promotion is another reason.

I've said many times that the LFL should be a gold mine. It should be a major success. Elite women athletes, who happen to be very attractive and playing in rather skimpy uniforms seems like a recipe for success. Yet, here we head into 2020 without the LFL.

I've also said many times that other things were happening behind the scenes. The players made no money. The coaches probably weren't extremely well-paid. Expenses seemed to be at a minimum. Where did the money go? Why wasn't the LFL thriving? I am assuming it wasn't making a lot of money, because why would it fold if it was highly profitable. It just doesn't make sense to me. Maybe as time passes, more of the picture will be revealed.

Either way, I am left with a lot of great memories from my time covering the team. I met a lot of awesome people. I saw exciting football action. I made wonderful friends and now enjoy seeing them succeed in other areas in their lives.

One such example is the Rockstar Heather Furr. One of my first interviews with the Bliss, Heather truly lived up to the Rockstar moniker. Heather might not have been the most talented QB, but what she lacked in pure ability, she more than made up with grit, intelligence and hustle. Heather was a winner.

Like the rest of the LFL operations, the treatment of Heather was questionable. I would have made Heather the face of the league. An MVP QB in Chicago with a great look and an awesome personality should have been marketed to the moon. Instead, it almost seemed like the LFL tried to downplay her.

I have a ton of respect for Heather and I appreciate all she did for me over the years. She always had time for interviews. She was always willing to talk on or off camera.

Heather moved on from her LFL career into real estate. I have no doubt she will be a major success there, too. As I wrote, Heather is a winner.

You can find Heather on Facebook. You can also follow Heather at @HeatherFurr on Instagram.

Heather Furr and me in Bridgeview, IL-May 2015.

Deena Fagiano: Pretty Face, Pretty Tough!

When you see Deena Fagiano, you see a beautiful young lady, highlighted by a wonderful smile and thick flowing hair, oh and lots of muscles.  Deena is much more than just a pretty face (and big muscles) though.

Deena is a former member of the Chicago Bliss of the Legends Football League.  She was a key member of 3 championships with the Bliss.

It would be easy to dismiss her ability and effort because she has the look necessary to succeed in the Legends Football League.  As an offensive lineman, she didn't play one of the "star" positions either.  Make no mistake though, Deena earned her place on the team and was a contributor to three LFL titles in four years.

I have seen her work hard in practice.  By the way, the practices are twice weekly and usually start in January.  Like the other ladies of the LFL, Deena is fully committed to this to the point that I don't even understand it.  Remember, they don't get paid, yet there they all are working so hard for months, just for 4 games and two playoff games.  Obviously, their titles prove their work pays off.

It would be easy for Deena to accept a lesser role on the team, but she continues to work and train hard to improve every time.  Actually, it might be even easier for Deena to quit the whole thing and look for work in modeling or television.  This just proves her passion for what she does.

Deena is kind of a microcosm of the entire league.  These ladies work so hard for no pay and very little recognition, but they love what they do.  I really wish the league was run differently.  I think it really could be a gold mine for everyone involved, including the ladies who make the league.

You might look at Deena and the others and think they are just eye candy, but you'd be wrong.  Check out any game or even any of my interviews with them (at On the Beat With the Chicago Bliss on YouTube).

Deena has moved on from the league and is enjoying life. I miss #5 though. It was a pleasure covering her.  She was always good for a fun interview.Deena did not play in 2017 and I don't know what her future holds.  I know she will succeed though.  

Deena Fagiano and me in Bridgeview, IL-July 2015.

Caitlin Jo Burke of the Denver Dream Loves Johngy's Beat

Caitlin Jo Burke tried out and made the roster of the 2015 Chicago Bliss of the Legends Football League (formerly Lingerie Football League). Covering the team that season, I had the pleasure of talking to her several times. My first interview with CJB can be found at On the Beat With Caitlin Jo Burke.

CJB moved from Chicago to Denver, but kept her passion for football. She tried out for the LFL Denver Dream and once again made the roster, although I had no doubt she would. CJB is an athlete. She is a tough young woman who has an athlete's mindset. She works incredibly hard at always improving her skill set. She loves challenges and plays through pain. She even played through a broken wrist last season.

Recently, Caitlin was kind enough to send a shout out to JohngysBeat.com. It's always cool when people I have covered send me promo videos. I appreciate it. Of course, I will always have a special place in my heart for former Bliss players, even when they are playing for another team like CJB is. I'm just happy to see her playing.

For more info on CJB and her teammates, check out LFLUS.com. These ladies aren't just pretty faces who play football. They are football players, who happen to have pretty faces.