Les Grobstein With and Without The Chicago Rush

Back a few years ago, I covered the Chicago Rush in the Arena Football League.  Unfortunately, the Rush had all sorts of management and ownership issues, which led to them folding.

One of the highlights was working with broadcasting legend Les Grobstein.  While, we did not work "together," I usually sat next to him in the Press area.  It was cool to be that close and hear him do what he does best.

The man is unreal.  His knowledge and memory are out of this world.  I really sat in awe of him many times.  I was lucky just to be around him as we both worked.

After the Rush, I have been "On the Beat" a few more times with Grobstein.  We were both at the Chicago Legends Basketball Tournament last year, as well as a few other events.  Every time, I always think how col it is to be working the same event as him.

The Grobber is a legend.  His Hall of Fame career speaks for itself and he is still all over the sports scene.

My time covering the Rush was short-lived, but a lot of fun.  If nothing else, I will always cherish working alongside Grobstein!

Les Grobstein and me in Rosemont, IL-March 2013.

On the Beat with the Chicago Rush-Part 1 The Front Office

On Monday, I attended Media Day for the Chicago Rush and I received my season media credentials.  Starting today, I will be featuring and highlighting Players, coaches, fans and events of the Chicago Rush.  It is a new era of Chicago Rush football and JohngysBeat.com is excited about being a part of it.
The new era really begins with David Staral, the new owner.  Staral admits this all came together very quickly, but things are headed in the right direction and the changes are positive.  Staral is a young, Chicago native and a sports fan.  I felt his enthusiasm right from the start and I look forward to great things from Staral and the Rush.

Coach Bob McMillen transitioned from a legendary AFL playing career to become a successful coach in his first year at the helm.  He was runner-up for the AFL’s Coach of the Year award in 2011, when the Rush went 13-5 and won the Central Division title.  That appears to be just the beginning for the motivated McMillen.  Like Staral, McMillen's enthusiasm and determination was evident and contagious.

Les Grobstein is a radio legend, a true Hall of Famer.  I have listened to the Grobber for years and he never ceases to amaze me with his knowledge of sports.  The guy is simply amazing.  He has also done plenty of broadcasting over the years, including being a part of the first Arena Football game ever.  Grobstein is a great asset as the broadcaster for the Rush.  His enthusiasm, acumen and humor add up to a great listening experience for the Rush fans.  It was a pleasure for me to meet the Grobber!

These three men represent a huge part of the Rush from different angles.  Each contributes to the positive energy that was overflowing from the area during Media Day.  I am so excited about this and I encourage everyone to get on board with the Chicago Rush.  It promises to be a fun ride.
For more info on the Rush, you can check out ArenaRush.com and the Chicago Rush Facebook page and you can follow the Rush on twitter.

The Grobber

It seems like Les Grobstein has been around forever. I remember him from the old WLS 89 AM, where he did sports reports. He really hasn't been around forever, but he pretty much has done it all. Currently, he does overnights on WSCR in Chicago.
Grobstein has an unbelievable memory. He can recall stats and events like few people and he is interesting. He doesn't just spew out data.
Grobber is a Chicago sports icon. I have listened to him pretty much my whole life, yet even I didn't realize just how much he has accomplished.
Grobstein's website is a virtual museum. The dozens of pictures alone are worth the trip.
I met Grobstein at a charity bowling event held by WSCR many years ago. We talked sports for a few minutes, which was a few minutes more than he had considering how busy he was. Still, he didn't shun anyone.
If you still haven't found something interesting, go to YouTube and search "Lee Elia rant". It is one of the most famous audio clips in sports history and it is the result of a question Grobstein asked then Cubs Manager Lee Elia.

Les Grobstein in Arlington Heights, IL-mid 1990's.