Time for the annual awards

Because this is my last column of 2004, I decided it was time to give away my end-of-the-year awards. \nFirst up, the Ron Powlus Award, given to the college football player who succeeds at having the most disappointing career. This year's recipient is Chris Rix of Florida State. After coming out of high school as an extremely talented brash young quarterback, Rix became a four-year starter and the butt of every joke my buddy Booter made this year. After three seasons of Loveccio-like consistency, Rix was finally benched this year and ended up throwing five interceptions to go with his two touchdowns in seven games played. Congratulations Chris, and good luck convincing anyone to draft you.\nNext is the Barry Bonds Award, which goes to the one athlete in any sport who is not getting a Christmas card from me. This year's winner is Nomar Hamm. After barely showing up for the Red Sox last season, Nomar burst on to the scene this year by demanding a bigger contract, alienating his teammates and displaying the type of leadership skills that have made Latrell Sprewell what he is today. Nomar even got a $200,000 bonus from the Red Sox just to thank him for all he did this year to help their run to their first championship in 86 years. After all, if he doesn't get traded, there is no way they beat the Yankees.\nSpeaking of the Red Sox, this year's Wilt Chamberlain Award, given to the athlete who needs a size XXXL jock strap, goes to Curt Schilling. After seriously injuring his ankle against the Angels, Schilling underwent a new procedure to hold his tendons in place, allowing him to pitch in Game 6 of the ALCS -- a win over the Yankees -- and Game 2 of the World Series -- a win against the Cardinals. Schilling was reportedly in constant pain, and blood could be seen seeping through his socks during both games, but by toughing it out the 38-year-old earned the respect of the sports world and gave his teammates an extra push toward the championship.\nThe J.D. Drew Award, given to the biggest draft-day crybaby, was an easy choice this year. It goes to Miss Elisha Manning, rookie-starting quarterback of the New York Giants. After whining and complaining about not wanting to go to San Diego, Elisha got her wish and was traded to the Giants. Yeah, I mean, what's there to like about San Diego? It's sunny and 70 degrees every day, has loads of beautiful women and one of the best running backs in the NFL. Who would possibly want to go there? Since becoming the starter, Elisha has expertly guided the Giants to a 0-3 record and put up a stellar quarterback rating of 44.2. Meanwhile, the Chargers are headed toward the playoffs and an AFC West title at 9-3 behind the stellar quarterback play of Drew Brees ... yes, that Drew Brees. A note to Miss Manning and her father Archie -- hope you're happy guys.\nFinally there is the Ricky Williams Award, given to the athlete who makes the most insane decision of the year. Who else could this go to but Ron Artest. Artest asked for time off from basketball because he was tired from promoting his CD. Then a few short weeks later he decided to jump into the crowd and made the Pistons-Pacers game look like the Vibe Awards.\nIt's been a great semester. I hope you all enjoy your vacations and get everything you want at Christmas ... unless you're a member of the Manning family, then I hope you get coal in your stocking.