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As of now, I'm no longer a part of Maize 'n Brew's team. It's sort of bittersweet, but it was a necessary move on both my part and the part of Zach Travis, whom I respect and consider an all-around good guy.
Thanks, Zach. It was a lot of fun, and I definitely consider my time with M'nB as a highlight of my developing career.
About five years ago, I decided to really take this sports writing thing seriously. I was lucky enough to get a shot at The Flint Journal, thanks to Bruce Gunther, and I'm very happy to remain a part of Bleacher Report's roster--thanks to Rich Thomaselli for opening that door back in 2012, and thanks to guys such as Max Rausch, Ben Chodos and Scott Campbell for continuing to encourage me to go big or go home.
I'm not going to get all sappy. M'nB and I only had a six-month relationship. I won't write a song or anything. Probably won't get a tattoo celebrating our fling, either. But I'll remember it.
I don't drink often. But today, I'll tip more than a few (in spirit) for the Brew Crew.
Pour Out a Little
Over the summer, Anthony Broome helped guide me to Sound Mind Sound Body. I'm good with directions (yeah...OK), but needed his assistance over the phone. He was going to text me, but I won't text and drive--so I made him stay on the phone until I pulled up next to him.
He's a young guy with lots of promise. Good luck, Anthony.
Back in spring, Josh Henschke and I drove to Northwood for a camp. That was interesting, to say the least. I don't think either one of us wrote a thing about that day. Oh well, it was a fun road trip. I first met Josh a few years ago, and he's really perking along these days. Good luck to him as well.
Anthony Mammel...well, I don't know him. But I heard he's a stand-up guy, and by the sound of it, he's returning to M'nB.
Zach, Zach, Zach. He was one of the most professional guys I've worked with. Can't say enough good things about him.
To the readers and commentors: You guys threw everything at me. Some teased me because I wasn't a Michigan fan, but I hope that you all found my pieces honest, critical and thoughtful. As you all know, I have nothing but respect for Brady Hoke, his staff, and the Michigan program. Thanks for clicking on my stuff and putting up with me. I enjoyed every minute of it.
So, I threw "Michigan media day" in the headline. That's why you clicked, not to read my farewell. So here are the goods (all video shot by Jared Janssen of JJ Sports Video). Catch more coverage from me this week on Bleacher Report.
Talking shop with Rod Beard, who pulled up listening to Digital Underground. And we almost got hit by the cops...
Blake Countess
Hoke presser
There is also plenty of audio: Shane Morris, Greg Mattison, De'Veon Smith, Jourdan Lewis, Blake Countess, Jake Butt and more...Check out my SoundCloud profile.
Follow Bleacher Report's (and former Maize 'n Brew writer) Adam Biggers on Twitter @AdamBiggers81