Smith: Satchel Paige

Earlier this month, a friend forwarded an internet recap of the day the Atlanta Braves signed Satchel Paige to a contract that enabled him to receive a Major League pension.At the time, Paige needed 158 days to qualify for his pension.

Smith: On red-and-black — and silver

Fall football practice has begun, and the natives are restless — not with criticism, but with anticipation and expectations. This has been the way it is since shoulder pads were invented.

Smith: Dawgs’ days of summer

It is difficult to carry on a conversation this time of year without the topic turning to football. Excitement will build steadily over the next four weeks, though the final days of preseason camp often bring a cloud of fatigue and impatience.

Smith: Open Final

When a new face rises to prominence in the sports world, fans and media alike become fascinated with the "inside" story, searching for the hidden details that reveal who the person really is.Ryan Fox, now New Zealand's newest sporting hero, is about as unassuming as they come.

Smith: No country boys no more

Todd Groce, president of the Georgia Historical Society in Savannah, recently sent along a note saying that kids today have no connection to a farm anymore.As Todd pointed out, following World War II, there was a gradual migration from farm to town.

Smith: Summers past

Every time I hear the acronym NIL—that dastardly trio of letters—I can't help but flash back to another era and reflect on how much college athletics has changed.

Smith: The British Open

The British Open will be played this week at Royal Birkdale in Southport on the west coast of Great Britain, and I will enjoy golf’s oldest championship through coverage on the Peacock network.

Smith: Jim Minter

Then he sprang to his feet and said, “Come, let me show you my mule.”They walked outside, where a limp-looking mule stood as though he might collapse at any minute.“I’d like to sell you my mule,” the governor said.“How much do you want for him?” the man asked.“Five hundred dollars.

Smith: Times have changed

Football teams across the country are preparing for the upcoming season. Even underclassmen, in many cases, are positioned to benefit financially through name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities while hoping to play well enough to reach the National Football League.

Smith: Enjoying European sports

With the recent conclusion of the French Open, the second Grand Slam tournament of the tennis season, the sport's scene in Europe during June and July is a reminder of how captivating it is.In just a few days, Wimbledon will begin.