Cannon Firing Line
Jaded Games
By Ellis G. Cannon
PSR Publisher

Uh-oh. Hide the kids .They’re right around the corner.

Of course, “they” would be the Olympics. The Winter Olympics.

I was doing Saturday morning radio the last time they held the Winter Games. I remember them quite well because it was on a slow weekend I decided to go after the Opening Ceremonies, which, coincidentally, took place on a Friday night.

Maybe this is a product of just being limited, but I couldn’t figure out what that opening show was all about if my life depended on it. And, the more I tried to find wisdom at the bottom of a glass, it practically did.

So, when it comes to these “games,” forgive me if I’ve become a bit jaded. And educated, since we learned during the most recent summer Olympics that these weeks make for the world’s biggest hook-ups. Having troubles finding a date? Grab a sled and head to Italy. If you’re an Olympian these days, the games you’ve worked years to participate in are not the only ones in which you can earn a medal.

Americans can again watch the Games on tape, which at least will allow me to know who won. Don’t laugh. If you knew the answers to half the tests you took growing up, you probably would be further along in life too.

That information helps in the screening process, which you’ll need. The primary network shares the events with about a half dozen others so you can’t miss them. And at least I’ll know which to peek at, which to avoid.

Which reminds me. They announced the USA and Canadian hockey teams this past month. With their roster, just arriving at the Games will be a win for the Americans. As for Canada, they kept it old-school with a lineup sprinkled with just enough guys from the Rock Age to make sure nobody gets them confused with pre-Games ice dancers.

Which may be a reason to watch something after all.

"Ellis Cannon's SportsLine Pittsburgh" airs weeknights, 6-8 p.m., on FM NewsTalk 104.7. Ellis is also a regular contributor on the "#1 Cochran Sports Showdown" aired Sundays at 11:35 on KDKA-TV.