The Litmus Test

litmus test

n

1. (Chemistry) a test to establish the acidity or alkalinity of a mixture

2. a critical indication of future success or failure

I did not do well in chemistry.....so I am really focusing on the 2nd definition for this blog.

Every athlete has different ways to measure their success. You can, of course, use stats to start with. Goals and assists, passing yards, total receptions, championships won etc. You could go on and on with different methods of looking at your "success."

But for most great athletes, there is always a definitive "litmus test" that you want to achieve, to know that you have "arrived".

For me, in Junior A lacrosse.....I played for Mississauga, and we were not very good. We did win games here and there, but for me.....the litmus test was always Peterborough. They were the team to beat. They are what we measured how good (or in our case how bad) we really were.

In the 80's  (an awesome era for sports) - there were a few teams that would be every other teams

 "Litmus Test"

• In the NFL, it was Joe Montana and the San Fransico 49'ers.
• In the NBA, it was Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls
• In the NHL, it was Wayne Gretzky and the Edmonton Oilers.

The great thing about playing great teams or great players, is the way you get motivated to a different level. Some would argue that, especially as a Pro athlete, you are making a lot of money, you should always go out every game, and give 100%. Give it your all. Full out, on every shift. However, let's not be naive here. We have all seen our favorite teams play amazing against the best team...and lost to the last place team. There is something to say about playing the best. Your body goes through a transformation, your focus picks up, your adrenalin is off the charts. It is truly an amazing feeling.

The biggest "Litmus test" for any athlete in a while, is tonight. (in my opinion).

If you think of the greatest tennis player in the last 10 years, nobody would argue the name Roger Federer. His "numbers" are staggering. 237 consecutive weeks at Number 1. His career record is 824 wins 188 losses. He has won a record 16 Grand Slam titles. The stats go on forever. He is currently ranked number 3 in the world. A Truly amazing athlete.

The "Litmus Test"?

Tonight....the young Canadian (21 years old) Milos Raonic plays Roger Federer for the first time ever.

Raonic has made headlines with his sizzling serve, and has moved up from nowhere to being presently #27 in the world. He has 3 career victories, Federer has 72. It is time to see where Milos stacks up against the best.

Tonight is the night. Should be a great match.

                                          Milos Raonic                                   Roger Federer