While the calendar may only read February, and a look outside reveals only the results of vicious ice/snow storm, due to scheduling changes, the greatest sporting event ever is now only 3 months away, and it's time for an early look...

 

Once again, due to a violation of the MBBCGA's "No Sex" policy by Mr. Drossner, the MBBC has moved to a new month.  Others have suggested that the move was due to the intense heat of MBBC X, and others have suggested that the move was due to a scheduling conflict for Mr. Woods. However, the truth is that Mr. Drossner has, once again, blatantly violated MBBCGA policy and once again shown that he believes that the rules do not apply to him.  His lack of respect for the MBBCGA and its plolicies has been an issue before and has resulted in a series of fines and reprimands.  His conduct has resulted in comparisons to T.O. and has led many to speculate that the MBBCGA may order the first ever suspension of playing privileges.  It is unclear when the MBBCGA will meet to discuss this issue.

 

This issue aside, a quick look at the players and their prospects for winning the 2007 MBBC:

 

Dan Hoelke - There is no doubt that the heavy favorite is the defending champion Stormin' Dan Hoelke.  Hoelke has captured the last 2 titles in relatively easy fashion.  Many believe that barring an unforseen injury, Hoelke has the talent (or perhaps more importantly his competitors have the lack of talent) to dominate this competition for many, many years.  Making birdies was once seen as a weakness in Hoelke's game and was the general basis for the creation of the MBBC.  However, after a few down years, Hoelke has adapted his game and become the most dominant force on the MBBC Tour.  After years of playing well in warm-up rounds and then struggling with driving or putting or both, Hoelke has found the way to have himself primed and ready for the MBBC.  He's also managed to avoid the lengthy birdie droughts he was known for in previous years.  The rest of the players can only hope that the old Hoelke returns and the new and improved Hoelke stays home. 

 

Scott Woods - Woods appears to only be a shell of the once confident champion.  The statistics don't lie as his game has been on a dramatic decline over the last few years.  He has candidly admitted that he has very little confidence in his ability to make birdies.  The once cocky and brash attitude is gone, and Woods has commented that he has no idea when his next birdie might come.  Once devoted to the MBBC, Woods has appeared distracted over the last year by work, family and a new relationship.  A recent shoulder injury also raised questions about Woods's preparation for the upcoming MBBCGA.  Woods has the track record and ability to win the title again, but he must find that "spark" that he once had, if hopes to wrestle the title from Hoelke. 

 

Paul Rovner - Perhaps the fastest rising star of the MBBC.  At one time known as the worst player in the MBBCGA, Rovner has brought his game to a new level over the last few years and shown signs of becoming a legitimate MBBC contender.  Rovner suffers from occassional lapses in his game, and despite the overall improvement, seems not to take advantage of his birdie opportunities.  A Master of Psychological Warfare, Rovener appears to be up to his old tricks, as he recently told the defending champion, Dan Hoelke, that he shoiuld simply leave the trophy in Pittsburgh, and take a picture of it to show to the rest of the players, since it will be staying in Pittsburgh for many years to come.  Despite raising his game several levels over the last few years, Rovner must raise his game to yet another level, if he hopes to contend for the title. 

 

Eric Drossner - the "red-headed step child" of the MBBC... Drossner continues to ignore the reprimands of the MBBC and do what he wants to do.  His antics are tiresome to many, especially in light of the fact that he has not even sniffed a championship in several years.  One player was quoted as saying, "I'm tired of the guy.  It's the same bullsh*t, every year!  He's a joke.  He'll never win a title."  Drossner seems to have lost interest in the MBBC, as he showed little heart and little effort before a multiple-birdie final round last year, which earned him a respectable third-place finish.  Drossner's talent and ability have never been in question.  Unfortunately, it's the 10-cent head that seems to have kept him from winning.