10 Questions...with Charlie

Today's special Thanksgiving episode of "10 Questions" highlights Charlie, B.I.A.'s first player to have his jersey retired, first switch kicker, and first (and only) player to be kicked out of the dugout for drinking.  In this blog's "first", we learn a little bit more about one of B.I.A.'s alum, including the importance of stretching and his thoughts on Charlie Benore Day.

1.  What was your favorite B.I.A. moment?

So many great moments, but my favorite is the first ever B.I.A win.  An intense, hard fought forfeit win due to the other team not having enough players for the early game.  I'll never forget the team charging the mound and piling on top of each other in jubilation after the victory was sealed.

2.  What was your worst B.I.A. moment?
Would have to be getting kicked out of dug out for drinking a second time.  Definitely a low for me.

3.  Who is your favorite B.I.A. player?

Tough call because I don’t really follow the team.  Is Jeff Bagwell still playing?

4.  How much emphasis do you place on stretching before a kickball game?

It's like I always say, stretching is like breakfast.  It's the most important meal of the day.

5.  Do you miss playing kickball?

Not a day goes by that I don't miss the game.

6.  How difficult of a decision was it to retire from the sport of kickball?

One of the hardest decisions of my life.  But, at the end of the day, needed to make the best decision for me and my family.

7.  What would it take for you to come out of retirement and step onto the kickball field for one more season?

It's not really about money at this point in my career, but, mainly, more money would help.

8.  April 1, 2009 was designated as Charlie Benore Day, where the team retired your jersey. How did you feel afterwards?

Was an amazing night!  The sincere outpouring of love and support was truly inspiring.  I don't think there was a dry eye in the whole stadium.  Definitely an emotion filled night that I will never forget for the rest of my life.

9.  How does the B.I.A. organization now compare to when you were playing?
The team has progressed from a small upstart to a large, well oiled machine.  Put simply, between Scott and Rumaldo, it's the best managed team in the sport, period.

10.  Any advice for the current and future players of B.I.A.?
Stay true to the game.  It's easy to get caught up in the money and the glam.  But one needs to remember that the game's really about nine players on a field with a ball.