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Fix This Park: Knott's Berry Farm
Written by Robert Niles
Theme parks fans long have recognized a pecking order in the theme park industry. At the top, offering attractions and facilities of the highest quality (and, as a result, attracting the largest attendance) has stood Disney. One step below that stood the Universal, Busch and SeaWorld parks, which offered great rides and shows, but usually in facilities that were a notch less fancy than those built by Disney. Next came the regional amusement parks, such as Cedar Fair and Six Flags, which operated even more basic facilities, focusing on lightly or unthemed roller coasters and carnival rides.Tweet
But those divisions are beginning to blur, at least at the top of the industry. Disney took a huge step backward in quality with its Walt Disney Studios park in Paris and the original California Adventure, though it's now investing billions to reverse that course with top-quality projects such as Cars Land and Buena Vista Street. At the same time, Universal's working to close the gap from the opposite direction. With the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal's now building attractions at the Disney level. (Some of us might argue that Universal's Potter exceeds Disney's current standards.) SeaWorld's becoming more ambitious in its construction projects, too, with more richly themed environments such as Orlando's Antarctica and San Diego's Explorers Reef.
So what does this have to do with Knott's Berry Farm? Knott's once stood as Disneyland's near-equal in quality. In the 1950s and 60s, the parks operated more or less as a duopoly in the theme park business, with Knott's staying open on weekdays that Disneyland closed, and vice versa, in a not-so-subtle effort to share crowds between the parks. For decades, Disney's Imagineers have been drawing inspiration from Knott's attractions, most notably the Timber Mountain Log Ride that led directly to the creation of Disney's Splash Mountain. One can make a strong argument that many little kids in southern California in the 1980s preferred Knott's Camp Snoopy to Disneyland's New Fantasyland. Disney even considered buying Knott's in the 1980s and 90s, before deciding to develop California Adventure instead.
But Cedar Fair bought Knott's from the Knott family instead. And under Cedar Fair management, Knott's began to devolve into just another Cedar Fair iron park. Knott's closed dark rides, cut shows and started putting its money into roller coasters. It's once-industry-leading food quality suffered. It even obliterated its park entrance by paving over its lake and dropping a massive B&M inverted coaster on the site.
Then, in 2011, former Disneyland president Matt Ouimet took over Cedar Fair. And under Ouimet, who knew Knott's past and potential, Cedar Fair's began to change its approach to Knott's Berry Farm. The company invested more than a million dollars to refurbish the Log Ride with state-of-the-art animatronics, lighting and scenery. The food's improved, with new selections and recipes. And park officials aren't exactly hiding their desire to perform another Log Ride-like makeover of the park's Calico Mine Train attraction, too.
Inside the "new" Timber Mountain Log Ride
So as we talk about "fixing this park," let's acknowledge that Knott's already has started. It has made and is making changes that merit the attention of Disney and Universal theme park fans. But let's take it from there. What else could Cedar Fair and Knott's do to move this park out of the "iron park" echelon and instead challenge Disney, Universal and Busch Gardens parks for quality, theming and entertainment value?
Let's review what's already in place. Knott's Mystery Lodge remains one of the great theme park shows anywhere. The work of BRC Imagination Arts, whose artists have created many works for Disney, Mystery Lodge would make a fine addition to Epcot's American Adventure pavilion, if ever Disney wanted to tell more of the story of Native Americans. It should be a must-see for theme park fans.
But one attraction, even of the quality of Mystery Lodge, isn't enough to get theme park fans to buy a ticket into a park. They need more. The Timber Mountain Log Ride always was a nice ride, but after this summer's renovations, it's simply eye-popping. (Skip to 1:11 for the start of the ride POV.)
For the refurbishment, Knott's contracted with Garner Holt Productions, which also has created animatronics for Disney, among other clients. Couple the new Log Ride with Mystery Lodge, and now Knott's has two top-quality themed attractions to offer fans. If the Log Ride refurbishment drives attendance gains this year, it's likely we'll see a similar refurb of the Calico Mine Train. That'd be three top-quality attractions.
We're getting there.
Let's talk about food, the original foundation of Knott's Berry Farm. Two years ago, I visited Knott's with my son and we ate at the Ghost Town Grill with the intent that I'd review the restaurant for Theme Park Insider. But the food was so bad — nearly inedible with a funky smell and taste — that I killed the piece. Knott's attendance was falling and I didn't feel like wasting your time with a post knocking a park you weren't paying attention to anyway.
I revisited Knott's for the reopening of the Log Ride this summer and ate at the Ghost Town Grill again. What a difference!
The Blacksmith's Smoked Beef Brisket Sandwich, with cole slaw and sweet potato fries ($14.99), offered plenty of roast beef with a nice smoky flavor that elevated it far above a typical deli sandwich. The crunchy cole slaw balanced the rich meat well, and I ended up trading the sweet potato fries with my daughter for the tasty mashed potatoes she'd selected with her Calico Classic Cheeseburger ($13.99). The third side option was regular French fries, and we agreed those were the best of the bunch, perfectly crispy on the outside with just enough potato fluff in the middle.
Our only complaint? Cost. Sorry, as much as my son loved to devour his chicken tenders and fries (after grudgingly letting me try a few fries), there's no way a plate of chicken strips and fries should cost $15.49.
So while Knott's is making progress, there's still far to go before this park makes the jump to the next level. What should the park do next?
How about putting a new dark ride in the old "Kingdom of the Dinosaurs" space? Maybe a Snoopy vs. the Red Baron shooter?
Or how about a steel track treatment for the increasingly rough GhostRider, once one of the industry's best wooden coasters?
Or how about a thorough revamp of Camp Snoopy, ditching the scaled-down carnival rides in favor of more active themed play areas, such as those found down the coast at Legoland? (I hope that Knott's always keeps the Huff-n-Puff, though. That's an ideal kiddie ride — one that demand physical activity to make work.)
And, finally, how about some "addition by subtraction" and shipping that B&M Inverted, Silver Bullet, up the state to Knott's Cedar Fair sister park, California's Great America, which could use a big new coaster? (*Update, in response to comments: Okay, maybe not to CGA. Perhaps another Cedar Fair park?) That would clear space for Knott's to rebuild a themed entrance worthy of a top-quality park. Maybe Knott's could even bring its lake back.
What do you think? What does Knott's need to do to get your business, as a theme park fan? How would you fix Knott's Berry Farm?
Readers' Opinions
From James Rao on August 6, 2013 at 11:17 AM
Great article, Robert, and timely, as I have just finalized my plans for my fall SoCal trip, and Knotts made the cut.
As far as I am concerned, this Cedar Fair park is finally on the right track. They just need to keep moving forward with the current trend of restoring Knotts to its former glory. All the things you mentioned make a lot of sense, but first and foremost, the Calico Mine Ride needs the next Garner Holt refurb. Big time. And future attractions need to be Disney-on-a-budget and geared to the quirky nature of the park and to the family market.
So, during my trip this fall I will visit, DLR, SFMM, and KBF. I chose DLR because it rules by far. I chose MM because I want to re-visit the Coaster Capital of the World (sorry, Cedar Point). And I chose KBF specifically because of the recent reboot of the Timber Mountain Log Ride. I felt it was a must ride during my visit. Universal Hollywood became the odd man out as there just is not enough to do in that park to justify the huge price tag.
So, keep up the good work, Knotts, bring back the old time magic, restore Calico Mine Ride, and for goodness sake, please start playing theme specific music instead of out-of-place pop hits inside the park!
From Anon Mouse on August 6, 2013 at 11:50 AM
Knott's is 20 minutes away from house and I see it when I drive on the 91 freeway. Knott's Camp Snoopy is a plus. I took my daughter there a lot when she was two years old. She has outgrown it. I outgrown the iron rides. I can no longer handle the roller coasters and adult spinners as they are much too intense for me.
What they need to do is add that indoor dark ride. I always wondered why they had to remove it. There was no reason to take it away. It also needs a year round haunt attraction that will make up for the Haunted Shack attraction loss from many years ago.
Remove the short roller coasters. They have too many 30 second roller coasters. They take a long time to wait and you just get a short thrill.
Add more shows. Their shows are worth the visit, but there aren't enough. I especially enjoy the ice show, but the old seats and aging facility is due for a makeover. The Extreme show at the park center needs a plot and seats. The children's show needs more staging and larger cast.
Food still needs improvement. While the fried chicken is terrific at the entrance, everything else about it is terrible. The sides are too small. The salad is tiny and just iceberg lettuce. The corn is a waste and goes uneaten. Looks like corn from a can. The mashed potatoes are tasteless and the gravy must be from a jar. Thankfully, the biscuits are good.
The mall at the entrance needs an update. The stores need a major makeover. The merchandise displays seem to sell last year's clearance items and stuff from my grandma's attic.
Lastly, update the restrooms. They smell and the tiles are coming off. Water is constantly on the floors. Caulk has peeled off and are black with mold. Gross.
From Nick McKaig on August 6, 2013 at 12:04 PM
In order to compete, I believe that Knott's need to bring something relevant as well as new to the park. It's all well and great to invest in improving current attractions - it's always aggravating when I go to a park and top rides are in disrepair - but what really gets people excited is a relatable attraction from the modern world. The Harry potter section of Islands of Adventure is spectacular is almost every way, but far more important was that I grew up with the characters and cared about their story.
I don't believe that removing the Silver Bullet would be dollars worth spending. It would be far more valuable to invest in rebranding to bring characters and stories to the park that people younger than 50 can relate to.
From Brandon Mendoza on August 6, 2013 at 12:13 PM
I gotta agree with Anon Mouse. The park needs less of the quick 30 second coasters, and more rides that take a minute or two to go through as well as dark rides. If they can continue to use the level of animatronics that they've added to the log ride and apply it to new rides and shows, I think Knott's could have something going for them.
The food definitely needs to be upgraded to the level of Disney or better.
And I think the park needs to find its identity. I just hope they don't become anything like Universal Studios Hollywood where everything is done on a budget and has bad jokes everywhere.
From 22.214.171.124 on August 6, 2013 at 1:01 PM
Much as I hate to say it, its the way of the business world. What you saw at Knotts in previous years is sadly being reincarnated, it appears, in at least one of the Sea World parks. Busch Gardens Williamsburg has been cutting back on operations over the last couple years including closing rides unannounced in mid-season, and terminating popular show and replacing them with less than optimal preformances. Even the quality of the goods in the shops, once high quality shopping, is slowing fading away becoming more and more 6 Flags-ish in nature. another forinstance can be seen in the quality and degree of elaboration of the the scenes and character make-up for the annual halloween event which has been dropping over the last years. Rumour has it that the budget for this years event has been dropped even more. Lucky, the food quality has remained to a high standard.
I, for one, am very willing to pay more to have a quality experience for myself and my family at any theme park. And, frankly, its very saddening for those of us who are long term fans of BGW to see it slowly start the fall from the standard that it has held for years. Lets how the new owners can realize what they have had.
From Russell Meyer on August 6, 2013 at 1:28 PM
Those 30-second costers that you speak of are some of the most unique in the country. Xcellerator was the protype that changed the coaster landscape. Siera Sidewinder is one of the most interesting coasters I've ever ridden, and Pony Express is a must because of the unique riding position (the only one I've ever riden, and I've been to just about every major park in the US).
Those 3 attractions are the least of Knott's problems. I'd also throw in that Silver Bullet probably is less of a problem than Robert makes it out to be. It's still a top-rate invert, but perhaps should have been given the "Talon" treatment that makes the Dorney Park invert "scream" by in near silence. It could also be improved by embracing its western theme by adding props, tunnels, or other elements to the course. Montu and Alpengeist are two of the best inverts in the world because they incorporate their themes into the ride. The costs to do this are minimal, but the payoff can be immense. If you want to get rid of some coasters, you could kill Montozuma's Revenge and Jaguar, but those two take up such little real estate, I'm not sure what difference it would make other than create longer waits for other rides/attractions.
We were at Knotts for a day in February, and the thing that always struck me about the park was its lack of destinctly themed areas with clean transitions. They have different names for some of the areas, but they're all essentially the same. You can walk from Calico Square into Ghost Town and never know it. Over half the park has the western theme at and south of the entrance, there's a 50's and Mexican themed sections in the back, and the kids area near the front. The western sections are very much like Dollywood, which embraces those theme through nearly that entire park. At Knotts, those western sections take up about 2/3 of the park with the kids area, Mexican, and 50's themed area encompassing the other third. I say, either embrace the western theme throughout or shrink it down to add additional themed areas.
As far as the food goes, we've only eaten at Mrs. Knotts, mostly because the in park food is just so overpriced. The adjacent mall also has a Pinks (also found at other Cedar Fair parks), which I found odd since they were charging theme park markups on food that you could get from the original restaurant around 30 minutes away (a must-eat-at establishment for anyone traveling to the LA Area BTW).
I think it's hard in this day and age to establish a brand in the theme park industry. Cedar Fair has found its niche by offering thrills for teens and coaster junkies, and asking them to try to compete with the best in the industry is a tall order. With USH's Evolution Plan getting off the ground, I think Knotts would be wise to stay in their niche, a happy medium between Disney and Six Flags. They can certainly spend a little more time and attention to theme and detail in their attractions, but to ask them to go all the way up to Disney or Universal standards could be a huge wasted investment. They'll get a lot of kudos from this website and other industry professionals, but I doubt making multi-million dollar investments in story-based attractions is going to bring an equivalent return. Ghostrider could use a retracking, but the Texas Giant incident along with California building codes may prevent them from make modifications to a coaster that already contains more than double the amount of wood than similar coasters in other locations. Creating a more unified theme for the kids area would be helpful, and perhaps just nixing the entire Mexican themed area.
From RoseAnn Felt on August 6, 2013 at 3:21 PM
A couple years ago I had AP to both DLR & KBF, so I was able to really experience the difference on a regular basis. To start KBF needs to literally clean up. One rarely sees trash in DLR, and their bathrooms are rarely not in pristine condition. Everything is so much dirtier and unkept at KBR. It diminishes the experience. They also need to really create an inviting, themed entrance. I think this is critical. When I walk into DL and enter Main Street there's a feeling that comes over me. Call it magic, call it nostalgia, call it what you may but the theming transports you and sets the whole tone for the day. I didn't get that feeling at DCA until the recent change to Buena Vista Boulevard, and I don't get it at KBF and won't get it until they create a themed entrance. I think that is more important than adding other attractions because it sets up your whole experience.
From Anon Mouse on August 6, 2013 at 3:51 PM
Russell: You'll be luck to get to Pink's in Hollywood in 30 minutes from Knott's. It is more like 45 minutes to an hour. And NO, I haven't been to the Hollywood location. Why visit a hot dog stand just to see it? I thought the prices are reasonable for a food experience. They hung up some celebrities photos with autographs. This is enough of the tourist experience that anyone should strive for.
I consider the 30 second roller coasters to not include the Sidewinder and the Xcelerator, but they are Pony Express, the Boomerang, and Montezooma's Revenge. These rides are not worth waits longer than 30 minutes. The Pony Express is the worse in that it is just one spin around the track. The other two rides will do it backwards, which somewhat mitigates the short ride.
From Tayler Ann Morden on August 6, 2013 at 3:59 PM
boysenberry scent. I remember going there when i was young and i can still smell the boysenberry. Mmmm
From 18.104.22.168 on August 6, 2013 at 4:47 PM
They will get to the Mine Ride soon enough. Garner Holt did an awesome job on Timber Mountain Log Ride. The one thing that would be cool though maybe not likely would be a mondernized Knott's Bear-y Tales. I wish I can say the same for Haunted Shack but unfortanately it is one of the few Knott's can't bring back due to the issues that led to it's closure.
From Zack McDonald on August 6, 2013 at 5:59 PM
You didn't mention the new Boardwalk section they added this year. It looks great. GR is a great wood coaster and is very popular. Sometimes it rides a little rough but nothing like the two SF coasters that got the Iron horse treatment. They have GCI work on it sevreal times each year.
The park is in good hands.
From Tim Chatlos on August 6, 2013 at 6:45 PM
I have long felt that Knott's would have been a perfect match for the sensibilities of Herschend Family Entertainment. Dollywood and especially Silver Dollar City seem to have a similar spirit and history. I can't help but think that Herschend would have been able to maintain the atmosphere and vibe of the park while adding new attractions and thrill rides. Cedar Fair, during the first ten years at least, didn't seem to be too concerned with that balance. That is how things like Silver Bullet happened. It is a perfectly fine ride, no arguments there, but I would love to see it moved out to another park. I realize that is extremely unlikely but it would do wonders to the overall atmosphere of Knott's.
From Stevo B on August 6, 2013 at 7:56 PM
Knott's found its niche with the thrill park crowd, they just need to manage it better. I'm always amazed when they cram another ride into the park. If they weren't so land locked they could really embrace the thrill rides and move/add them to an area away from the older areas of the park, bringing back some of the charm to those areas. I always thought they could push the back stage area behind Big Foot Rapids farther down into the land along Western Avenue and give themselves a nice chunk of property to play with.
The park needs more diversity so adding new shows, possibly expanding Camp Snoopy and adding a few more family friendly dark rides would be a great step. I'm happy for the attention they have paid to the park and am confident they will continue the momentum.
Hopefully they'll take that big fat refund check they get for Windseeker and put it to good use.
From 126.96.36.199 on August 6, 2013 at 8:55 PM
I grew up not too far from Knott's and I have fond memories of how it was, and how it upgraded. During the 1970s, the park underwent a huge expansion with Roaring 20s, yet there was still Jungle Island and the lake across the street that were free. I loved that Knott's still put in thrill rides, but still kept the lake at the entrance. And I also remember the antique cars and street cars near the Knott's entrance.
There were a lot more rides in both Roaring 20s and Fiesta Village back then. The areas "felt" themed and there were enough rides to for both adults and children. I've always been bummed that my daughter couldn't drive the antique cars or ride the Soap Box Derby Racers or smell the boysenberries inside of Knott's Berry Tales.
By the 1980s, the park, I believe, began to lose some of its appeal, way before Cedar Fair came in. As much as I like Camp Snoopy's charm, I still dread that the both lakes by the parking lot and inside the park were eventually paved over. Jungle Island was turned into a picnic area. And when the great Knott's Berry Tales was replaced with the Kingdom of the Dinosaurs, I knew the park would never be the same.
That being said, I like that the park is finally bringing some new technology and old charm back to Knott's. The park is now more clean and the employees have been nicer.
With that said, this is what I'd love to see happen to Knott's.
-Upgrade Calico Mine Ride with new animatronics and effects
-Bring back Knott's Berry Tales or something like it. The ride cleverly used Disney-like fun with an actual look back at Knott's history
-Replace Big Foot Rapids with a newer water ride with superior effects and thrills
-Build another indoor attraction...perhaps Knott's version of a haunted house year 'round?
-Take out Pony Express. This is a long wait for a very short and uncomfortable roller coaster ride
-If Silver Bullet was moved, my daughter and I would be very sad because love it...but, if that was done, install a coaster that is better!
-Theme "Boardwalk" with something more charming.
-Improve the over priced Chicken Dinner Restaurant with much better food, please. I've gone a couple times and the food was awful. The food used to be reasonably priced and it tasted good with good service. The restaurant is the reason why Knott's is here today.
From 126.96.36.199 on August 6, 2013 at 9:24 PM
My family visited Knott's Berry Farm maybe every other year until this past December, when we bought annual passes. It's true that Knott's cannot match Disneyland's level of theming for attractions, but it's a fun place to spend the day with the family nonetheless.
Besides the newly refurbished Log Ride, we enjoy the Peanuts ice skating show during the summer and holidays, the new family rides in the Boardwalk section (especially the unusual Surfside Gliders ride), the new Boomtown acrobatic show, the authentic stagecoach ride, family coasters like Jaguar, and little things in Ghost Town like the one-room schoolhouse and live restoration of the old California Mission models.
I don't agree about Mystic Lodge. While it's interesting to see the show and the theming is excellent, we don't feel that it's a top attraction in itself. I agree that it could be marketed a little better, though.
Things I would like to see changed/improved:
1) More special events like this year's spring Berry Bloom, which was fun for kids and adults alike.
2) Improve the theming in areas like Boardwalk and Fiesta Village. I remember the old Roaring '20s area to have been really well themed, with the rides supporting the 1920s theme. Most of the Boardwalk today feels like a county fair midway, with big open areas of concrete, carnival games, and unthemed thrill rides.
3) Bring in a new dark ride where Knott's Beary Tales and Kingdom of the Dinosaurs were located. Spend enough money to make it look well-done, not done-on-the-cheap.
4) While I would have preferred coasters like Silver Bullet and Pony Express had not been built in their present locations, I understand that they attract young people who like thrill rides, and don't think they need to be removed (but no more tearing up the charm and history of the park to add thrill rides). At the same time, the rides should be appropriately themed. For example, Sierra Sidewinder should have fake mountains or some sort of mountain backdrop to fit into the high Sierra theming of Camp Snoopy.
From 22.214.171.124 on August 6, 2013 at 9:53 PM
CGA already has an inverted coaster, Flight Deck, so they wouldn't need Silver Bullet. Also, they just opened Gold Striker, a new coaster, this year.
From 188.8.131.52 on August 6, 2013 at 10:23 PM
Could not agree more Robert. My first job was at Knotts Berry Farm as a 16 year old who lived in the next city over. I hadn't been back much until this year (almost 10 years later) when my girlfriend bought me a pass. The park has taken on a Cedar Point mentality with cement and coasters reigning supreme. The redo to the log ride was so refreshing. After I worked at Knotts I worked for Disney for many years in both California and Florida but when I started at Disney Matt Ouimett was the president of the park. I remember standing at the greeter position of the Main Street Opera House and watching him get down on his knees to pick up a soda cup under a bench in Town Square. If there is anyone for the job it is Matt Ouimett. What a lot of people don't realize is that Knott's is the most visited and biggest money maker for Cedar Fair. Cedar Point is a seasonal park and rakes in a fraction of what Knott's does. Unfortunately the company does what it did best at its midwest counterpart... build roller coasters. The midwest and northeast audience doesn't have Disneyland and Universal in their backyard. Knott's does. Themed entertainment is the key to it's resurrection. Knott's is a key example of a park guided by the "operations" department. Mid-level management makes big decisions. One that I personally remember was during Silver Bullet's construction. The park had to choose the color scheme for the attraction when ordering it from B&M. They had not yet decided on the name for the attraction and chose the "ketchup and mustard" color scheme you see today. You will not find anything "silver" colored on that ride. It was evident that the decisions were made by a clueless management team, not a creative team like you would see at Universal or Disney where these decisions would have been made before a coaster manufacturer was even approached. I really hope this park can be saved and I think there have been some good signs from the food to the in-park entertainment I've seen recently. But EMBARRASSING blemishes on the park like "Pony Express", "Sierra Sidewinder", and "Windseeker" are too expensive to fix easily.
From AJ Hummel on August 6, 2013 at 11:21 PM
Knott's is my local park and I visit approximately once a month. Fortunately, Cedar Fair is finally doing the right thing, and the 2013 additions (Timber Mountain Log Ride upgrade and new Boardwalk area) are the best added since the mid-90s. I would say the following should be done (in order or priority):
1. Reduce food prices to a reasonable level. There is no reason it should cost $16 for a burger, fries, and a drink. Although the food quality has significantly improved in the past couple years, I still leave the park to eat because of the insane prices.
2. Refurbish the Calico Mine Ride. It is good as it is now, but it could be great if given the same level of treatment the Timber Mountain Log Ride received.
3. Add a new dark ride. Even a Sally shooting dark ride would be an excellent addition to the park, and if they want to keep promoting themselves as a theme park Knott's needs more than one dark ride.
4. Clean up the ride selection. The park doesn't need five family coasters...Pony Express should go, and Jaguar should as well unless the height requirement can be reduced to the original 42 inches. Boomerang is not a very good coaster and should be replaced with another small footprint thrill coaster. GhostRider could use a topper track treatment (not the full I-Box job done on Texas Giant, as GhostRider is good but rough). Silver Bullet can stay (and Robert's suggestion would be terrible as CGA already has a B&M Invert: Flight Deck), but it needs to be themed well to blend in to the wild west theme of Calico Square. The remaining coasters are fine as they are. For non-coaster rides, the park needs to get Windseeker working properly or give it the ax. The other non-coaster rides are mostly good, but a few new and modern attractions would be great.
5. Overhaul Camp Snoopy. Replace some of the older rides with interactive or unique attractions. Take out Timberline Twister and put a new kiddie coaster in. A Vekoma Junior Coaster and a Splash Battle, along with one or two new kiddie spinners, would make this the best kids area in the chain.
Finally, Cedar Fair needs to be sure not to compete directly with Disneyland or Six Flags Magic Mountain. To be successful, Knott's needs to be a cheaper alternative to Disneyland with attractions that will entertain every member of the family. It needs high intensity thrill rides just as much as family-friendly dark rides, but it can't neglect one side and cater only to the other. As long as the park doesn't focus exclusively on thrill rides or exclusively on family rides, it will be successful.
From 220.127.116.11 on August 7, 2013 at 1:11 AM
The food prices may be high, but the season passes are dirt cheap, so I'm willing to give them a break. As for a new dark ride, maybe they should copy Disney's never built Western River Expedition. That would be awesome!
From Brad Jashinsky on August 7, 2013 at 8:37 AM
For the first time in 15 years I purchased a season pass to Knott's this year due to the Timber Mountain refurbishment and the general overhaul of the park's theming. The park still has a lot of room for improvement, but Knott's is finally back to having a sense of place in the majority of the areas that make the park an enjoyable place to spend the day. Here are a few ideas for improvement:
1. Hire better employees by boosting wages and improving employee-training procedures. I don't expect Disneyland quality cast members, but knowledgeable and cheerful staff is essential for a family park. The walk-around performers and restaurant staff have always been helpful and welcoming, but in my experience the majority of the ride attendants are slow, inexperienced, and on their smart phones.
2. As Robert and many other commenters mentioned, add a dark ride back into the Kingdom of the Dinosaurs building and make it interactive. The entire 1920s area could use a refurbishment and/or a new theme. If they expanded the western theme to that area the dark ride could be themed to a stagecoach adventure across the country.
3. Bring down the prices of food from the counter food stands. No matter the quality, no one wants to walk-up to a window and pay $16 for a burger and fries. On the other hand, I think the table service restaurants are a decent value for the high quality food they serve. Food from a table service restaurant at Disneyland is 2x-3x as much.
4. Remove Boomerang, Riptide, and Wipe Out to make room for a dark ride that is themed to Snoopy and the Peanuts going to the beach in the 1950s. It could be rethemed during the holidays to A Charlie Brown Christmas.
5. Let's pretend Knott's finds 200 million dollars of gold treasure buried on their property. With this 200 million dollars, they should remove Pony Express and turn Bigfoot Rapids into a Western River Expedition dark ride the extends into the backstage area.
From Eric G on August 7, 2013 at 10:31 AM
Russell Meyer - The supports on Silver Bullet are filled with sand just like Talon at Dorney Park. Both are equally as quiet.
Pinks may be a Los Angeles landmark, but the food is disgusting. Anyone who knows anything about Hot Dogs will go to Portillo's over Pinks any day.
Robert I couldn't disagree with you more regarding your comments about Silver Bullet destroying the park's main entrance. Silver Bullet is an outstanding ride and did nothing but enhance the entrance area. It's 2013, not 1976. Knott's needed to move forward with some bigger attractions.
While some of the early Cedar Fair additions and changes were poor choices the recent ones like Pony Express, Xcelerator and Silver Bullet were great additions to the park and each have themes to match the surrounding area.
From Robert Niles on August 7, 2013 at 11:12 AM
I think it's important to note that Knott's/Cedar Fair doesn't have access to the hundreds of millions of dollars that Disney does. So it needs to follow a more modest path forward. From everyone I've spoken with at Knott's, it seems clear to me that the Mine Train is the next step in that path.
But what then? I think there's a more lucrative future for Cedar Fair in having Knott's go after Disney's market than going after Magic Mountain's. Just look at the difference in attendance and income for those parks. Getting a share of Disney's market as a lower-priced alternative represents a lot more potential income than becoming the Orange County version of Six Flags.
That's why I think Knott's should look toward an additional dark ride, and a Camp Snoopy refurb as next steps. And bringing down food prices to Disney's levels, too. It's hard to beat Disney as a value proposition when you're charging more than Disney for a cheeseburger.
From Eric G on August 7, 2013 at 12:44 PM
Knott's can lower their food prices when they raise their gate prices to Disney levels and eliminate all the discounting.
Your value proposition argument is lost when you take into account the considerable difference in price at the gate.
From Anon Mouse on August 7, 2013 at 1:59 PM
Knott's needs to take a page from Disney in learning how to better monetize its best assets. The food is one thing they fail to capitalize on by not having better variety and lower affordable prices. The drinks are priced much too high. It forces me to use the drinking fountains. There is not enough street vendors and the cash registers are awfully slow. They need more single item quick stops. The slow lines prevent me from buying a snack or a fried chicken meal.
The merchandising is poor considering it has many quaint areas that increase desire to spend money. The bad merchandising mix and the terrible store displays inhibit spending.
You would think the Halloween and Christmas time festivities would increase spending. It isn't so good. I hesitate on wasting my money on buying the stuff they're selling. They should do simple things like selling holiday foods and ornaments. Their holiday food and jam packages are priced over $20 and I wonder why should I buy that.
From 188.8.131.52 on August 7, 2013 at 8:29 PM
Robert makes a good point about Cedar Fair's financial resources. But I brought up the attractions and themed areas to illustrate that Knott's, once family owned, still built Roaring 20s in the 1970s. This was an example of using limited resources to create a great themed area with a mixture of family and thrill rides. It was a huge expansion and really brought the park into the modern theme park age.
If memory serves, they added the Corkscrew, the parachute drop, the observation ride, the motorcycle ride (which I think turned into the Soap Box Derby), Knott's Berry Tales, and at least two carnival rides. The theming was wonderful, unlike the Boardwalk. Why couldn't Cedar Fair, with a little ingenuity, do a blockbuster expansion/re-imagining of some parts of Knott's?
The new additions to the Boardwalk area do nothing for me as a visitor. That being said, I do like that Cedar Fair and Matt O. have really stepped up to fix the park.
I realize that the company may not have nearly the finances as Disney (I wouldn't expect them to). Yet they have still invested millions into roller coasters at Cedar Point and I'm sure for their other properties. They even managed to buy other parks, if I recall.
This is a huge wish list, but I hope that Cedar Fair brings back Knott's to not only its former glory, but into something for the future.
From 18.104.22.168 on August 7, 2013 at 9:30 PM
I am a new season pass holder to Knott's which is about 45 mins from my house. I have been going to Knott's since I was little in the early 80's. Knott's has improved dramatically in the past couple years after really loosing its way. The food is better, the park is looking cleaner and is getting some much needed upkeep. They are replacing wood on the ghost town buildings and on Ghostrider and repaving the walkways. I really wish we could find a way to add more ride or show based themed attractions to Ghost Town. The Log ride upgrade is a definite success and they need to do the same for the mine ride asap. The boardwalk area in the back also looks wonderful and my kids go on those 3 rides over and over when we visit. I agree the food prices need to come down a bit but the food quality and selection is getting better all the time. They really need to clean up the bathrooms, they are smelly and dirty and run down most of the time. Some things I would like to see in the future: Re-theme Bigfoot rapids and refurb it, get rid of the rust / water stains. Maybe add a Peanuts theme to it, like Race for your life Charlie Brown. Add some figures and audio. Bring the parachutes back. I remember seeing those from the freeway as a kid and getting so excited, they were a great family ride. Put a dark ride in the old KOTD / Berry Tales building. Either peanuts related or a re-imagined Berry Tales. The whole Roaring 20's / boardwalk area has a split personality, decide on one. I think the boardwalk should just expand to the railroad tracks by the bumper cars, theme it all to the Boardwalk. The new fountain area looks nicewith all of the flowers and is a step in the right direction though. Revamp Camp Snoopy with updated rides. Some newer rides just need paint jobs and light bulb replacement. Fix the arcades. they currently have old broken down outdated games, i know some people want nothing to do with arcades at a theme park but when you have small, video game loving kids looking to escape the heat in the summer, it is disappointment to see the junky games with broken down change machines. Fiesta village needs some help too, the buildings and rides are really aging, either fix it or gut it and start over. Paint them, fix the cracks etc. I really dislike how Indian Trails keeps shrinking and is now basically down to a small stage and a couple of teepees jammed in behind some buildings next to some Silver Bullet supports. Move Indian trails including the performance stage back by Mystery Lodge and expand it and lets give more respect to Native American heritage and their cultural significance in the old west. Is this list too long?
From 220.127.116.11 on August 7, 2013 at 10:24 PM
I forgot one other thing: the replica of Independence Hall, which is on the other side of Beach Boulevard and is a free attraction, has seen much better days. I remember taking a school field trip there in the 1970s (not to Ghost Town or any part of the paid park, but JUST Independence Hall). Back then, Knott's really paid attention to the building and show about the signers of the Declaration of Independence.
When we went there earlier this year, I remember one or two employees in the gift shop, and we were the only ones sitting for the show. The show is badly dated, and could use some reimagining for the 21st century. It doesn't need any expensive animatronics to be interesting-- maybe with a short documentary playing inside the current theater, while keeping the sets. Or with the amount of space inside the building, a small museum-style exhibition could be created, maybe through a partnership with a local Orange County organization.
I don't know if the Knott family stipulated in the contract that Independence Hall remain free of charge, but it's a shame the way the attraction was been run down. I think the building can be a tremendous asset if the park values it and treats it as such.
From rick stevens on August 8, 2013 at 12:29 AM
I have been going to Knott's since the early 60's. It started out as a transplanted Ghost Town and slowly added rides. There was a Diorama walk that showcased the Missions of CA. Admission was free, but you had to pay for each ride. I miss Mott's Miniatures, the Boxing Museum, and I agree that Virginia's Gift Shop is a shadow of what it used to be. The Mine ride was a favorite and is in great need of refurbishment. I agree that they have too many rides crammed into a small space, but no one has mentioned the abysmal water park across the street. That is prime real estate that should be re-themed. One thing they still do great is Knott's Scary Farm. This said, if they could transfer some of the enthusiasm from the shows to the everyday workings of the park I think they might do better. One of the distinct things I have seen is that most of the shows deal with voice over's and lighting and no real animatronics or live action shows. Disney was a once a year luxury, Knott's was an affordable alternative that you could go to more often. As stated in earlier submissions, they need to go back to some actual themes and get away from the "compete with 6 Flags" attitude.
From 188.8.131.52 on August 8, 2013 at 8:44 AM
-Finish re painting Xcelerator
-Give the Topper Track treatment to GhostRider.
-Remove Pony Express
-Remove WindSeeker
-Remove Boomerang
-Remove CoastRider
-Remove Screamin Swing
-Add themeing to Silver Bullets queue
-Add a Dark Ride To the old Kingdom of The Dinosaurs Building.
-Add a dark ride (or two) in the space vacated by CoastRider and Boomerang.
- Add Trees and landscaping in the space vacated by Pony Express and Screamin Scream.
-Update Mystery Lodge
-Update Mine Ride.
-Add more trees to the park
-Lower food prices. Seriously, they are insane, even for a theme park. I can't remember the last time I ate at this park.
-Add Themeing to Big Foot Rapids.
From 18.104.22.168 on August 11, 2013 at 9:47 AM
What I didn't like about KBF is the resort hotel. The room was quite small, as was the bathroom. Checkout was supposed to be avail on the television but it didn't work when I tried it. Also, the #1 thing on my list is that they charge hotel guests for parking...why????? I'm already paying a LOT to stay there, why is it necessary to charge me for parking too, especially when I didn't know about it til I went to check out & found that I owed $10..for parking! They could AT LEAST notify us travelers in writing on the website before making the reservation that we'll be charged for parking...utterly rediculous & completely NOT customer oriented place. A parking pass slip on the dashboard is sufficient to let security staff know who's a paying hotel guest & who isn't...no need to charge additional funds for parking as far as hotel guests are concerned!
As far as the park is concerned. I didn't think it was necessary to have us wait at the main area that you go into the park (past the gates) til opening. We were blockaded by a large chain across the entryway with staff standing behind it to make sure no one entered before the time. Why can't we just go on in & at least walk around til things are opened? I think it's silly to force patrons to just stand there for a LONG time in a group before letting us in. First of all it's HOT outside & we're getting sunburned, not to mention thirsty & tired from standing in one place...not good for people who need to sit down as there's no benches to rest while waiting, at least none that I saw..People trying to get in front of others (cutting) to be first ones in to get to the rides, etc...totally unnecessary. We can just as easily go to our fave rides & stand in the line waiting for the ride to open or browse the stores at least. Doing this will make for happier patrons IMO. We can at least have the railings to lean on while waiting for the ride to open.
I'm sure there was more to my issues w/the park & hotel which I'm sure I mentioned in my trip report but that's about it for now.
From Eric Fisher on August 11, 2013 at 11:44 AM
To 126.96.36.199: Why not just destroy it and start over? Your suggestion borders on that. This was a true theme park purchased by a company that specializes in iron parks. They did what they know. If the Knott family had sold to Disney the park would have been very different today. There might have even been a monorail between the parks. And the Imagineers would have had another toy box to play with.
But let's deal with what is. Cedar Fair may have been late in recognizing the uniqueness of Knott's among their holdings, but they appear to be heading in the direction the Knott family took. Don't forget that the park went through a down period - and Cedar Fair rescued the park from that. Give them credit. Let's see what they have in mind. I agree on at least two more dark rides. But another coaster will draw in crowds - which will justify the dark rides. This will be fun to watch. And experience.
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text: We have to learn to be responsible for ourselves and our actions.Once you make a decision you move on and make other decisions and life goes on and you pray for direction. Don't live in the past. Don't live in your regrets. Don't act like you didn't make a decision that changed everything. Every decision from this point on should not be made based on your regret. Remember that your decisions effect OTHER people. Their future depends on your ability to make mature decisions.

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Featured Articles on Rage Quit Baddie
The Gamer Dictionary
Interview: Professional Gamer, Brittney Walden
Shit Gamers Say, A Video Selection
Video game humor, Gangnam Style
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I have been playing a fair bit of League of Legends lately and have noticed a lot of the more unskilled players I play with having some trouble with something…. KNOWING WHEN TO DIE. Naturally the ideal situation is to never die, win all your games handily and maybe you do that. This post is not for you then. For the player who might just have to carry that 0/5 Draven in the bottom lane, then each and every life or death is precious, and sometimes knowing when it is acceptable to die can be the difference between winning and losing. Below I have compiled a list of times I feel it might be acceptable to die and some commentary to support my reasoning. Continue Reading
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Don't Feed the Troll
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Delta 6 FPS Controller, A Gun Controller
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With the growth of online multiplayer console gaming, the FPS category has the hottest and largest releases of each year. The controller options have grown and there are many, bringing more realism to the game. Yet, the way you use the controller is still basically the same. Kotkin Enterprises steps in with the Delta 6. This controller is shaped like a gun and can turn into multiple guns. You can take a way or add different parts to this controller, changing it from an assault rifle into a sub machine gun into a sniper rifle. The buttons for play are located on the hand grip. The Delta has most of the things that you would see on a real gun, including a sighting scope that activates when it touches your cheek and a silencer. The controller is made of plastic but it looks real. Continue Reading
Video game humor, Gangnam Style
Korean pop star Park Jae Sung also known by his stage name Psy took the world by storm with his international hit Gangnam style. Despite the song being sung in Korean, it spread wildly through pop culture in English speaking nations due to its high society feel, memorable dance moves, and zany antics that range from singing on a toilet, to stalking yoga chicks with a mighty roar. If you have not seen the video I have included it below. Continue Reading
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Shit Gamers Say, A Video Selection
The shit people say meme didn't start with gaming, it started with a video entitled Shit Girls Say , and if the internet can be believed a popular twitter feed inspired the video. Shit Gamers Say was not excluded however, so never fear. The Shit Girls Say meme spawned several viral videos with views over a million on you tube in just days. Some of those videos today have several million views not even a year later. The Shit X Says meme covered things like: toddlers, rednecks, college freshman, asians, New Yorkers, whipped guys, single girls, frat guys, and everything in between. If there was a race, religion, gender, and socio-economic background combination that can be thought of, chances are they were made fun of in a Shit People Say video. Gamers however were not left out of the popularity wave that the Shit People Say meme brought on, and some great Shit Gamers Say videos were born. Today we are bringing you a selection of those videos. Definitely check out the Shit Gamers Say To Their Girlfriends. Enjoy, and as always thanks for the support.
Continue Reading
Well it is now officially Monday, and that means the 2012 New York Comic Con has come to a close. The event was packed and there were a lot of great things to see around the show. An impressive number of Comic Vendors were in attendance as well as tons of T shirt vendors and people selling action figure collectors items. Gaming was the front that we were looking to cover however and we were not disappointed. There are a number of upcoming releases that were being demo'd at the convention such as the new Devil May Cry, Tomb Raider, a game called Pacific Rim, Mass effect and a number of other marketers. The games we were most excited about were the Halo 4 and Hitman Absolution. Hitman Absolution had stunning Continue Reading


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Tippeligaen 2013: Team Guide to Norwegian Premier League
A League Guide to the Premier League of Norway; Tippeligaen 2013
With this article we hope to promote the Norwegian Premier League, Tippeligaen, to foreign football fans. The Tippeligaen might be compared to the Belgian First division, Jupiler Pro, or the Swedish First division, Allsvenskan.
Tippeligaen is known for their tight battles and many rivalries, partially because of the small country and the geographical position of the biggest football cities. To predict the league table has never been more difficult, as the gap between the skills of the top 5 clubs has decreased.
In the last decade there have been a good export of promising players from Tippeligaen to bigger leagues, for example to the English Premier League, Dutch Eredivisie and most recently German Bundesliga. We can mention stars like John Obi Mikel (Chelsea), Alexander Tettey (Norwich), Rodolph Austin (Leeds), Anthony Annan (Schalke 04), Chinedu Obasi (Hoffenheim), Mame Biram Diouf (Hannover), Markus Henriksen (AZ Alkmaar), Tom Høgli (Club Brugge), Marek Sapara (Trabzonspor) and Mohammed Abdellaoue (Hannover).
In this first part of our guide to Tippeligaen 2013, you will get to know the clubs and will be given our league predictions for 2013.
Tippeligaen 2013; Basic Information
The Tippeligaen was founded in 1937 and has its name because of their main sponsor, Norsk Tipping, which is the one and only allowed sports betting company in Norway. The league has only been professional for the last 21 years. Tippeligaen 2013 will be closer and much more exciting than ever, and might be a battle between five clubs. Two of the top 5 clubs might be former Manchester United striker, Ole Gunnar Solskjaers Molde FK and Norwegian Hero from the 1994 World Cup, Kjetil Rekdals Vålerenga IF.
Fixtures and rounds The Football league of Norway differs from the ordinary league system in Europe, as it started 15th of March, and ends in the middle of November 2013. Before we get the final result of Tippeligaen 2013, the 16 clubs will play 30 matches each (league of 30 rounds). The final round will be played 10. November 2013. Rounds played during the weekends are broken up into one game on Saturdays, six games on Sundays and one game on Mondays. Midweek rounds are broken up into six games on Wednesdays and one game on Thursdays.
Top flight Champions
Rosenborg Ballklubb aka RBK is the most championships of the Norwegian Premier League, 22 championships in total, who recorded 13 championships between 1992 and 2005. The second team is Fredrikstad Fotball Klubb, with 9 wins. Fredrikstad is now located in the first division Adeccoligaen. Viking is the second best club, who plays in the Tippeligaen today, but are ranked third behind Fredrikstad on the overall Championship ranking.
Clubs of Tippeligaen 2013 and predictions
The 2013 version of Tippeligaen has a number of 16 clubs, which is located in two main areas of Norway. Seven of the clubs is located in the western part of Norway, called Vestlandet. Six of the clubs is located at the eastern part of Norway; Östlandet. From the northern Norway there is only one club represented.
We will take a closer look at all the clubs below and give you our predictions for each and every one of them.
Sandnes Ulf (14th 2012)
Sandnes Ulf was founded in 1911, and could be regarded as the smallest professional club coming from the county of Rogaland, the center of Norwegian Petroleum industry, which has made Norway a wealthy country. Despite their long history, Sandnes Ulf have always been in the shadow of Viking and Bryne. As early as 2010, Sandnes promoted from the 2nd division, where they have spend most of their time in the last decade.
Sandnes Ulf normally plays a 4-2-3-1 formation with a very direct playing style. At their best it's very entertaining to watch that kind of playing style, but mostly it leads to many conceded goals because of the average squad they possess. After the 2012 season they have lost their key player, danish forward Christian Gytkjær. Sandnes Ulfs manager Asle Andersen have been at the club for seven seasons which proves continuity and stability. If Sandnes Ulf should avoid relegation we believe ex-Arsenal youth goalkeeper Sean McDermott (19) needs to show his exceptional talent, partially because they have only one other goalkeeper choice, who is also pretty young (Aslak Falch (20). There ain't too much depth to the squad, and the team might rely on young promising talents to succeed; Zymer Bytyqi (16) (loan from Red Bull Salzburg), Albanian midfielder Anel Raskaj (23), striker Tommy Høiland (who was a remarkable talent in the past, but might be somewhere unpredictable), in addition to their captain, midfielder Aksel Berget Skjølsvik (25). We can also mention striker Jakob Olsson (21) who joined the club from GAIS on loan before this season. We believe the squad is not capable of handling the tough league of 2013.
You can see the full squad of Sandnes Ulf at their home page.
Our Predictions for 2013: - 16th
Hønefoss BK (13th 2012)
Hønefoss BK was founded in 1895, 118 years ago and was part of L/F Hønefoss until 2008. Hønefoss BK is located in the middle east of Norway (Østlandet) in the county of Buskerud. Buskerud is mostly known for their hunting abilities in mountainous plateau with forested valleys. Despite their long history Hønefoss have spend much of their time in the last decade in the first division. They promoted to the Premier League in 2011. The club have never won any championships or trophies.
Hønefoss BK normally plays a traditional 4-4-2 and has a three colored kit; white, black and green. The club plays their games at AKA arena, which has a capacity of 4256 people. The season of 2013 can be long and hard for the young manager Leif Gunnar Smerud who joined Hønefoss in 2011. The squad of Hønefoss is pretty average compared to the top three clubs in Norway and have not strengthen their squad worth mentioning. Last season they scored only 30 goals in 30 matches, and played draw in 12 of the matches!
The club needs to rely on the 37 year old local defender Frode Lafton, who is also their team captain. Other key players are former Everton youth goalkeeper Lars Stubhaug, Icelandic defender Kristján Örn Sigurðsson and Finnish Riku Riski. We will also highlight Ivorian young striker Kevin Beugre, who can be the attacking force of a defensive team. This 20 year old young striker have recorded an overall of 19 goals in 46 matches in his entire career. Other important Norwegian players might be Helge Haugen, Kevin Larsen and Aleksander Solli, who joined Hønefoss from Vålerenga before this season.
You can see the full squad of Hønefoss at their home page.
Our Predictions for 2013: - 15th
Sarpsborg 08 FF (2nd Adeccoligaen / First Division)
Sarpsborg 08 Fotballforening was founded in 2008 and is a collaboration of Sarpsborg SK and Sparta Sarpsborg. They took over the place of Sarpsborg SK in the league system, but finished last in the second division the first year as a new club. In the decade of 2000 the club changed name several times. What have happen since the appointment of Roar Johansen back in 2009 is only remarkable. The club promoted from the second division to the Premier league in two seasons and was awarded manager of the year 2010. Sarpsborg got quickly relegated back into Adeccoligaen, but earned promotion before this season. Roar Johansen was fired even though they promoted to the Premier League and former Sheffield United striker Brian Deane was appointed. Sarpsborg 08 is located in the south-eastern part of Norway in the county of Østfold.
Sarpsborg 08 normally plays a continental 4-2-3-1 formation and has been playing attractive attacking football. Their counter attacking and quickness might prove to be their lucky star. Sarpsborg play in deep blue kits and play their games at Sarpsborg Stadium (Capacity of 5500 people). The squad of 2013 might become to lightweight but they have some experienced and exciting footballers. Key players such as ex-Auxerre defender Jeremy Berthod, Norwegian striker Martin Wiig, who have been part of the complete Sarpsborg saga and the cousin of Norwegian International striker Tarik Elyounoussi, Mohamed (18) would be key to a successful season. Other notable players might be Ole Christoffer Heieren Hansen (26, Captain) and Øyvind Hoås (29)
You can see the full squad of Sarpsborg 08 at their home page.
Our Predictions for 2013: - 14th
IK Start (1st Adeccoligaen / First Division)
IK Start was founded in 1905 and is located in the largest city of the south Norway, Kristiansand, in the county of Vest-Agder. Start have won the Premier League Championship two times, in 1978 and 1980. They became runner up in 2005, but have struggled since then. IK Start have qualified for the Norwegian Cup final 5 times, but have lost every final.
Start normally plays a traditional 4-4-2. Starts playing style is often described as "makrellfotball" (mackerel football), meaning the whole team is in constant, coordinated motion, and is a very attacking team despite opposition team. The home suit is colored in yellow and black. Start play their games at Sør Arena, which has a capacity of 14,563 people. In the second season for the ex-Brann player and coach, Mons Ivar Mjelde (45) might be capable of getting the team to avoid relegation. Of course it will all depend on the players and the flow thoughout the season. Key players like Icelandic profilic striker Matthias Vilhjallmsson (26), midfielder Babacar Sarr (22), experienced striker Espen hoff (31) and former Norwegian National player, goalkeeper Håkon Opdal (30). Start have many foreign players in their team; 2 Icelandic players, 2 from Costa Rica, Solomon Owello from Nigeria and 2 Senegalese footballers. 2013 could be either really good for Start or they will struggle in the bottom of the table. We believe the team has to avoid injuries on key players and get an immediate flow with points from day one.
You can see the full squad of Start at their home page.
Our Predictions for 2013: - 13th
Sogndal (12th 2012)
Sogndal Fotball was founded in 1926 and is the local club of a small beautiful town located in the west of Norway, in the county of Sogn og Fjordane. In their 84 long history they have never won the Norwegian Premier League. They managed to reach the final of the Norwegian Cup in 1976, but lost. Sogndal is the home club for former Chelsea pro Tore Andre Flo, and Jostein Flo (some might remember the Flo-pass invented by Egil "Drillo" Olsen at the Norwegian national team).
Sogndal Fotball normally plays a traditional 4-4-2 and wears white and black kits. Sogndals manager Jonas Olsson (41) might struggle. Experienced players like Eirik Bakke and Kenneth Udjus have moved out of the doors at Fosshaugane Campus (Capacity of 5523 people), before this season. It's a big question mark if former IFK Gøteborg goalkeeper Erik Dahlin (23) can stop the opposition team of scoring. Last season Sogndal scored 29 goals and conceded 37. The young talented squad must improve defensively this season. Key players like striker Malick Mane (24) and Ulrik Flo (24) needs to score more goals. Other players worth mentioning is Danish Tonny Brochmann (23), Brazilian striker Ricardo Santos (26) and Rune Bolseth (one of only two players above 30 years). Relative of Tore Andre Flo and Jostein Flo, Per Egil Flo (24) is the team captain.
You can see the full squad of Sogndal at their home page.
Our Predictions for 2013: - 12th
Odd Ballklubb (10th 2012)
Odd Ballklubb was founded in 1894 (118 years ago). The club is located in Skien, in the county of Telemark. Odd is one of the oldest football clubs in Norway and have a long and successful history. The club have won the Norwegian Cup the most times (12), and won the cup for the first time as far back as in 1903. Between 1902 and 1910 they won the cup four times and became runner up four times. Most of the 12 Cup Trophies came before the 1940's. They won the latest Cup trophy in 2000. Odd have also won the Norwegian Premier League two times (1950-51 and 1956-57). For the last decade Odd have been overall positioned in the top 10 of the Premier League table.
Odd normally plays a basic 4-3-3 formation. They plays in the same color as Rosenborg; white and black. The club plays their games at Skagerak Arena, which has a capacity of 13500 people. The season of 2013 can be difficult both financially and for the young squad and the their manager Dag-Eilev Fagermo (46). In 2012 Odd scored 40 goals and conceded 43. They won 11 and lost 12. On the paper, Odd have one of the best defenses in Tippeligaen and the continuity in regard of tactical setup and playing style might be their key to success. Odd have a good talent academy which could prove successful in the coming years when the 17 to 19 year old players gain experience and trust.
We believe, with todays squad, Odd needs to rely on the goals of experienced target man Frode Johnsen (39) to succeed. Other notable players would be striker Adem Güven (27), defender Fredrik Semb Berge (23), goalkeeper Andre Hansen (23) and midfielder Jone Samuelsen (28).
You can see the full squad of Odd at their home page.
Our Predictions for 2013: - 11th
FK Haugesund (7th 2012)
FK Haugesund was founded in 1993 only 19 years ago because of a merge between two local clubs, Haugar and Djerv 1919. FK Haugesund is located in the western part of Norway, in the county of Rogaland. The nickname of FK Haugesund is "the Arabs"...don't ask me why.
FK Haugesund has a pretty short history, but appeared in the Tippeligaen as quickly as 1997. In the last decade FK Haugesund have spend much of their time in the first division, but when achieving promotion to the Premier league they have played pretty well compared to whats expected. FK Haugesund have only reached the final of Norwegian Cup once (2007), which they lost 0-2 to Lillestrøm.
FK Haugesund normally plays a traditional 4-4-2 and is recognised by their white and blue kit. The club plays their games at Haugesund Stadium, which has a capacity of 8800 people. Jostein Grindhaug (40) is the manager of the club and is a former Djerv 1919 and FK Haugesund player. He replaced Rune Skarsfjord who left to become an assistant manager at SK Brann in 2009. The squad of Haugesund is pretty average compared to the top three clubs in Norway. The team must rely much on the Norwegian International striker Alexander Söderlund, who have recorded 21 goals in 58 appearances for the club. Other key players are Vegard Skjerve, Per Morten Kristiansen (captain), former Watford City youth player Umaru Bangura and Joakim Våge Nilsen. Haugesunds main strength might be their excellent home form, where they are very difficult to face. Their main weakness this season might be the lack of depth in midfield. We believe their top scorer Alexander Søderlund might move to a bigger club in the summer transfer window, which might make them struggle in the difficult part two of Tippeligaen 2013, the autumn.
You can see the full squad of Haugesund at their home page.
Our Predictions for 2013: - 10th
Lillestrøm SK (9th 2012)
Lillestrøm SK or the Canaries was founded in 1917 and could be regarded as one of top 5 clubs in Norway. Lillestrøm SK is located some miles outside the capitol of Norway (Oslo) and is the main city of the Norwegian county, Akershus, a county full of small or minor professional and amateur clubs.
LSK have won the Norwegian Championship trophy five times (runner up 8 times). The last Premier League trophy where 24 years ago(!) in 1989, which is kind of remarkable compared to their huge profile and team support, but went into the shadow of the dominance of Rosenborg in the 90's and early 2000. Lillestrøm have also won the Norwegian Cup 5 times, lastly in 2007. They have been runner up to the Cup trophy 7 times. Between 1998 and 2007 LSK featured regularly in the top 10 of Tippeligaen, but have struggled for the past 5 years, partly due to the lack of coaching ability of former Blackburn manager, Henning Berg, a manager who had a preference to buy and use young players. The other part of the lack of success was finances. Today Lillestrøm is managed by the former Swedish IF Elfsborg coach Magnus Haglund (39), who led the Swedish club to their first league title in 45 years!
Lillestrøm SK normally plays a traditional 4-4-2 and is easily recognized with their black and yellow kits. The club plays their games at Åråsen Stadium, which has a capacity of 12250 people. The Tippeligaen 2013 can be a remarkable year for the yellow and black birds, as they have kept much of their key players and preserved some continuity. Key players such as 35 year old defender Frode Kippe (Captain), the younger brother of John Arne Riise and former Fulham professional Bjørn Helge Riise, former Brann SK midfielder Erik Mjelde and last but not least the experienced striker Thorstein Helstad (35), former Rosenborg, Le Mans, Monaco and Austria Wien professional. We could also mention the foreign players Icelandic Pálmi Rafn Pálmason, Swedish attacking midfielder Johan Andersson and the one who might replace Mathis Bolly, who left LSK for Fortuna Düsseldorf in the January transfer window, Ivorian striker Moryké Fofana. Last season Lillestrøm scored almost as many goals as they conceded. To succeed in 2013 they might park the bus more often, and win against the smaller teams. We believe the club needs a good start, so they can play without pressure for points, to achieve a place on the upper half of the table this season.
You can see the full squad of Lillestrøm at their home page.
Our Predictions for 2013: - 9th
Aalesund FK (11th 2012)
Aalesund FK was founded in 1914 and is located in the North-west of Norway, in the county of Møre og Romsdal. In the last decade Aalesund FK have been gone from struggling in the first division to establishing themselves among the top 16 of Tippeligaen. Aalesund had their golden years between 2009 and 2012 by winning the Norwegian Cup twice (in 2009 and 2011), which is the only two championships achieved in their 98 years old history.
The former Liverpool and Roma pro, John Arne Riise, started his career at Aalesund as he's born in Aalesund.
Aalesund normally plays a 4-2-3-1 formation and is easily recognized by their orange and blue home kits.
The club plays their games at Color Line Stadium, which has a capacity of 11000 people. Jan Jönsson was appointed new manager of the club after being fired at Rosenborg BK at the end of last season. The 52 year old Swedish manager can be the one who take Aalesund to new heights. Before this season they have splashed out €1Mill on the Moroccan striker Abderrazak Hamdallah, which is the highest transfer fee ever paid!
If Aalesund should have a successful season much will depend on the form of the attacking force of the foreign players Jamaican footballers Tremaine Stewart, Demar Phillips and Jason Morrison, Costa Rican excellent playmaker Michael Barrantes and young Nigerian striker Leke James. Norwegian key players like goalkeeper Sten Grytebust, midfielders Fredrik Larsen and Fredrik Ulvestad needs to step up to make the 2013 version of Tippeligaen better than the 2010 version, where they recorded a 4th place! The Captain of 2013 is Jonathan Tollås Nation, a 22 year old defender.
You can see the full squad of Aalesund FK at their home page.
Our Predictions for 2013: - 8th
SK Brann (6th 2012)
SK Brann was founded in 1908 and is located in the west Norway, in the third largest county; Hordaland. SK Brann is one of major clubs in Norway (both in public interest and in regard to triumphs. They have recorded 3 championships and six national cup trophies through their 104 year old history. Brann had their golden years in 1960 and 70's when they won the Norwegian Premier League twice (1961-62 and 1963). It went 44 years before they retained the Norwegian Championship. Three years earlier in 2004 Brann won their sixth Norwegian Cup trophy after 22 years without success in the national cup. Brann SK have attracted many good footballers in the last decade. Most notable Norwegian players, who have played for Brann SK is Thorstein Helstad, Martin Andresen, Azar Karadas, Claus Lundekvam and Jan Gunnar Solli.
Brann SK normally plays a traditional 4-4-2 and normally wears a red and white kit. The club plays their games at Brann Stadium, which has a capacity of 17317 people. Rune Skarsfjord was appointed as manager in 2010 after Roger Nilsen got sacked because of poor results. Rune Skarsfjord got the tough job to rebuild the team, and have done a good job for the last two seasons (4th in 2011 and 6th 2012), even though the fans expectations are top 3. And the pressure from the home fans might be the reason why Brann can't capture a top three place this year either.
The key players for success in 2013 might be 28 year old former Bari and Portsmouth professional Eirik Huseklepp, midfielders Fredrik Nordkvelle, Tomasz Sokolowski, Amin Askar and Fredrik Haugen. Like Aalesund (and every other Tippeliga team), Brann must depend on foreign players for success. Hungarian defender Zsolt Korcsmar, polish goalkeeper Piotr Leciejewski, who is regarded as the best goalkeeper of Tippeligaen, and Austrian striker Martin Pusic might become vital for new trophies. Swedish defender Markus Jonsson is the captain of the team. The main weakness of the team is the depth in the defensive line.
You can see the full squad of SK Brann at their home page.
Our Predictions for 2013: - 7th
Viking FK (5th 2012)
Viking Fotballklubb Stavanger was founded in 1899 (113 years ago) and is the biggest club in the county of Rogaland. Viking play their games at Viking Stadium, which has a capacity of 16300 people. Viking normally plays in dark blue jerseys and white shorts. Viking is one of the most successful football clubs in Norway and have won the Norwegian Premier League 8 times. Viking had their golden years in the 70's by winning the Tippeligaen 5 times (1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1979). 1979 was a pretty good year for the Dark Blues, as they did a double. A part from winning the Norwegian Cup in 1979, they have won it 4 times (mostly in the 50's). It's 22 years since they last won anything, but can reach the Norwegian Cup final this year...
Viking has a highly experienced manager in Kjell Jonevret (50), who joined the club last season. Now he has been given time to set his playing style. Viking ended up with similar points as Tromsø last season, and there is much pressure on the team, as they possess a very good squad, which might bring the club into the top 5 of Tippeligaen 2013. Viking play in an continental 4-2-3-1. Their first choice goalkeeper is Rune Almenning Jarstein, who is also the goalkeeper of the Norwegian national team. In front of him you'll find Icelandic national team player Indriði Sigurðsson (31) and team player of the year 2012, Johan Lædre Bjørdal. In the midfield you'll find good players such as King Osei Gyan (24, ex-Fulham), El Hadji Makhtar Thioune (28) and promising Yann Erik de Lanley (20) who have speed and technical skills to outrun his opponent. But the key player might be Veton Berisha this season, who must step up and raise his performances despite the huge pressure. Veton is only 18 years old and is the younger brother of Valon Berisha (Red Bull Salzburg). On the paper, Viking has a very good starting eleven, but we believe Viking might struggle because of the huge pressure on the younger players and the few options in the defensive line. The lack of depth might result in an average season, and winger Trond Olsen needs to assist the young wonderkid (read Veton Berisha).
Check out the full squad of Viking at their home page.
Our Predictions for 2013: - 6th
Tromsø IL (4th 2012)
Tromsø Idrettslag was founded in 1920 and is the only club in the Tippeligaen who comes from the north Norway, in the county of Troms. The cold climate and long winters forces Tromsø to train much of their time indoor. Tromsø IL have actually never won the Tippeligaen, but have been runner up two times; 1990 and 2011. They have won the Norwegian Cup two times (1986 and 1996), and actually reached the final last season, but lost against Hødd. After the last season Tromsø have lost the broad football knowledge of ex-manager, Per-Mathias Høgmo. Former assistant manager, Agnar Christensen, have taken over the responsibility to manage TIL. A rookie manager on this level, but has partnered up with ex-Manchester United coach Jonathan Hill and top goalscorer in the history of the club, former striker Sigurd Rushfeldt.
Tromsø play a continental 4-2-3-1 and can be recognized by their white and red striped jerseys. The club plays their games at Alfheim stadium, which has a capacity of 6859 people. Alfheim is covered by artificial turf, which makes it difficult for the opposition team as the turf is quicker and better than what they are used to. In my point of view, Tromsø have actually one of the best midfields in the Tippeligaen. Last season their Czech striker Zdeněk Ondrášek, was joint top scorer (14 goals) with Péter Kovács, Strømsgodset. Tromsø have lost ball winning midfielder Kara, and have to rely on Norwegian national players Ruben Yttergård Jenssen, Remi Johansen and the golden foot of Thomas Drage or Josh Pritchard (20) (loan from Fulham). The defensive line looks also very good with Miika Koppinnen as the leader (captain), ex-Bolton stopper Jaroslawl Fojut and Saliou Ciss (23) as an attacking wingback, might reject Marcus Sahlmann much to do. Aleksandar Prijović (22) have now spend over 6 month at the club and can be an exciting player to follow in the coming months.
We hope Tromsø can do better than our predictions, but we feel with the strong opponents in Strømsgodset, Molde, Rosenborg and Vålerenga it would be a drop compared to last season.
You can see the full squad of Tromsø at their home page.
Our Predictions for 2013: - 5th
Vålerenga (8th 2012)
Vålerenga Fotball was founded in 1913, and will celebrate their 100th anniversary this season. Vålerenga IF is the only team in the Tippeligaen from the capitol of Norway, Oslo, and are often referred to as "Enga".
Vålerenga have won the Norwegian Premier League 5 times, the last one in 2005. In 2010 they were runner up, which has happen two times before. The club have won the Norwegian Cup 4 times (1980, 1997, 2002, and 2008). Vålerenga had their golden era in the 80's by handing in 4 trophies, reaching the Norwegian Cup final three times in five years (but lost the final two times).
Since the 2010 silver the club have struggled in the middle of the table. Last season Vålerenga scored 42 goals and conceded 44. Since then, successful Kjetil Rekdal has started his second period as manager of Vålerenga. With the appointment of Kjetil Rekdal, there have been an change in the dressing room and the optimism has increased. Vålerenga have also strengthen their squad with many star players. In the doors of Ullevaal Stadium (capacity of 25572), Jan Gunnar Solli (31, New York red Bulls), Christian Grindheim (29, loan from FC København), Mos Abdellaoue (24, loan from FC København), Daniel Fredheim Holm (27), has entered. Key players like Norwegian striker Torgeir Børven (21) and Fegor Ogude (25) might be two important players in additional to the new signings mentioned earlier. Vålerenga has a pretty good squad who can conquer the top three this season. With the pressure surrounding the team from the Vålerenga fans, Klanen, it might become a difficult season if their not close to Molde and Rosenborg in the first 10 matches. Vålerenga have also a bunch of promising talents who can become great players with the right guidance. We believe Vålerenga will progress from last season, but miss some of the depth in the defensive line to claim the top spot.
You can see the full squad of Vålerenga at their home page.
Our Predictions for 2013: - 4th
Rosenborg (3rd 2012)
Rosenborg Ballklubb was founded in 1917, 95 years ago in Trondheim. Trondheim is located in the county of Sør-Trøndelag. In their 95 year long history, Rosenborg have become the most successful club in Norway. They have won the Premier League 22 times. They won their first Premier League trophy in 1967 and the last in 2010. The golden years was the 90's and the early decade of 2000, where they won 17 trophies of possible 21. They have been runner up 5 times. RBK have won the Norwegian Cup 9 times from the first victory in 1960 to the last in 2003. RBK is one of few countries who have participated in the UEFA Champions League 13 times (between 1995 to 2007, which 8 of them where consecutive 1995-2002). Rosenborg are both hated and loved in Norway and their history is the cause of this effect.
The successful history had to end sometimes, and with the retirement of the man behind their success, Nils-Arne Eggen, RBK have partially struggled since 2004, partially because of a generation change in squad, but also because of lack of continuity on the coaching staff and board. Gone are the golden years as the richest club in Norway. Rosenborg is now forced to produce their own talents and succeed with their transfer spendings. Back in the club is Per Joar Hansen as manager, a manager who failed last time.
Since 2012 they have lost ex-Tottenham striker, Steffen Iversen (retired), top scorer Swedish Rade Prica and Daniel Fredheim Holm. Before this season we believe Rosenborg have strengthen their squad with three Danish footballers; midfielder Mike Jensen (25), striker Nicki Bille Nielsen (25, ex-Villarreal) and winger Tobias Mikkelsen (26, ex-FC Nordsjælland). Key players like Borek Dockal (24), who is described as the Czech David Beckham, and Norwegian national winger Tarik Elyounoussi must assist the Danish attacking force. Nigerian striker John Chibuike needs to step up and prove his goalscorer talent this season, as he only scored 4 goals in 26 appearances(!). RBK have also some young and promising midfielder talents, who can inherit the throne after Roar Strand and Markus Henriksen, in Fredrik Midtsjø (19), Jonas Svensson (20) and Ole Kristian Selnæs (18).
RBK normally plays in black and white in a 4-3-3 formation and play their games at Lerkendal Stadium, which has a ground capacity of 21166 people. Last season Rosenborg scored 56 goals and conceded the least, with 26 goals conceded. The statistics is kind of impressive compared to the weakness in defensive line. If the statistic from 2012 shall be improved experienced fullback Mikael Dorsin (31), captain Tore Reginiussen (26) and Swedish goalkeeper Daniel Örlund needs to boost the team morale and step up as front figures for the younger talents. One player worth mentioning might be Costa Rican wingback Cristian Gamboa (23), who might surprise both fans and opposition players. We believe 2013 might be a let down for the RBK fans, partially because of lack of depth in attacking and defensive line, but also the time the squad might need to gel before we see the full potential. We hope RBK can do better than our predictions as Norway needs a profilic team who can reach the group stage of Champions League.
You can see the full squad of Rosenborg at their home page.
Our Predictions for 2013: - 3rd
Strømsgodset (2nd 2012)
Strømsgodset Idrettsforening was the revelation of 2012, which ended in silver! The club was founded in Drammen in 1907. Drammen is the capitol of the county of Buskerud. Strømsgodset had their first golden years in the 60's and 70's which led to winning the Premier League once (1970). Strømsgodset have won the Norwegian Cup 5 times (1969, 1970, 1973, 1991 and 2010). They have been runner up for this tournament twice. The club play their games at Marienlyst stadium, which has a capacity of 7500 people. Their promising manager, Ronny Deila (37) was tutored by Odd manager Dag-Eilev Fagermo, and the former Strømsgodset and Odd player have guided the team into a new golden era.
It might be worth mentioning that the club have formed a partnership with Manchester City, which makes them able to loan some of their young talents, such as Bismark Adjei-Boateng (18), Enock Kwakwa (18), Abdisalam Ibrahim (21) and Razak Nuhu (21). Strømsgodset normally plays a 3-5-2, and is based on Norwegian and Senegalese football players. In the previous season Strømsgodset proved their attacking force by scoring 62 goals in 30 appearances. They conceded as many as 40, which might prove their weakness. The squad has been strengthen in the attacking line even further by the signing of Thomas Sørum (30) (ex-Helsingborg striker) and Simen Brenne, but might miss Anders Konradsen, who were sold to Rennes. The local leader Alexander Aas has retired and Ole Kamara has been sold to 1860 München. Deila has an excellent squad to work with, and have the Premier league top scorer of 2012 in their ranks. Senegalese national team goalkeeper, Adam Larsen Kwarasey (25), Jarl Andre Storbæk (34) and Lars Christopher Vilsvik (24) is the main core of the defensive line. Strømsgodset might lack some creative force in the midfield, but Øyvind Storflor might assist the two main key players; Hungarian experienced striker Peter Kovacs (35) and Thomas Sørum. We believe Strømsgodset can progress from 2012, even though they haven't the best finance compared to Molde. Strømsgodset might win the title this season, it all depends on if Molde can find their goalscorer.
You can see the full squad of Strømsgodset at their home page.
Our Predictions for 2013: - 2nd
Molde FK (1st 2012)
Molde FK was founded 102 years ago in 1911 and has inherit the football throne of Norway recent years over Rosenborg. Molde FK is located in the north western part of Norway, in the county of Rogaland. Molde have retained the Premier League Championship the last two seasons. They have won the Norwegian Cup two times (1994 and 2005). The years between 1994 and 2000 is by Molde fans called the silver era, as the local, former Norwegian National Manager, Åge Hareide, who guided the team to 2nd place behind Rosenborg. Ole Gunnar Solkjaer was bought from Molde before joining Manchester United.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer might have learn one or two things by Alex Ferguson. Solskjaer has taken some of the United-culture in to the dressing room of Molde. With the help of former Manchester United coaches Richard Hartis and Mark Dempsey they have established a winning culture in Molde. The multi-millionaire Kjell Inge Røkke and Bjørn Rune Gjeldsten have aided him with funds to buy who he likes. Last season Molde scored 51 goals and conceded 31, not the most impressive statistics. Despite having sold key players like Vegard Forren to Southampton and Davy Claude Angan (China), we believe the squad have enough quality both among the coaches and the players to defend the title. The club is one of few clubs who is fortune to have good finances which makes them able to strengthen their squad with international players if the result absents.
Solskjaer have adopted an continental style of play and normally plays in a 4-2-3-1 formation. The club normally plays in blue and white kits. Molde play their games at Aker Stadium, which has a capacity of 11800 people. Last season Molde scored 51 goals and conceded 31. Pretty good statistics, but not amazingly good.
With the sale of the top scorer of the team previous season (Angan), Molde might struggle to find the goal. The 2013 version of Molde is a young and ambitious squad. The squad has much depth and much quality. Molde have one of the best goalkeepers in Norway, Espen Bugge Pettersen, two young goalkeepers who could easily replaced him (former Newcastle pro Ole Söderberg and Ørjan Nyland). Key players such as attacking midfielder and playmaker, former Manchester United youth player, Magnus Wolff Eikrem could be important for success. We can also single out Finnish International defender Joona Toivio and young ex-Liverpool striker Lauri Dalla Valle. Other important Norwegian players is Even Hovland, Jo Inge Berget (Ex-Udinese), Knut Olav Rindarøy and Etzaz Hussain. Molde might rely on Nigerian striker Daniel Chima Chukwu and Swedish inside forward Mathias Mostrøm to score the goals which are needed. One question could be the depth of the team; Are there two many players in the squad which would force Ole Gunnar to rotate the squad too much?
You can see the full squad of Molde at their home page.
Our Predictions for 2013: - 1st
Summary of the League Table Predictions of Tippeligaen 2013
Predictions for the Top Goal scorer title of Tippeligaen 2013
It is very difficult to predict who will have the most goals this season, but we will give it a go. No matter what you will get some idea of who the best strikers in the league are. Notice there are none Molde players on this list. Obviously there will be many other players who will fight for this title.
1. Zdeněk Ondrášek - Tromsø
2. Torgeir Børven - Vålerenga
2. Peter Kovacs - Strømsgodset
4. Thomas Sørum - Strømsgodset
4. Veton Berisha - Viking
Predictions for the Golden shoe title of Tippeligaen 2013 (most assists)
It is very difficult to predict who will have the most assist this season, but we will give it a go. No matter what you will get some idea of who the best midfielders in the league are. Obviously there will be many other players who will fight for this title.
1. Øyvind Storflor - Strømsgodset
2. Thomas Drage - Tromsø
3. Borek Dockal - Rosenborg
4. Razak Nuhu - Strømsgodset
5. Jo Inge Berget - Molde


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I am in New Mexico for the remainder of the week and into early next week. I will be staying at a monastery and also speaking at a parish retreat. All said, it will be a fairly quiet week for me, often without internet.
That said, my monitoring of comments and conversation will be quite spotty as well. I encourage readers to keep the peace and be kind. I greatly appreciate prayers for this good week. It has already been a time of great grace for me.
Author comments have a tan color background for you to easily identify the posts author in the comments
Please pray for our country, Father. And if you're going to the Holy Archangel Michael monastery, please give my regards to Father Silouan.


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Brandon Jennings probably isn't wandering rural Wisconsin with an overgrown beard and a forlorn look on his face, but that's how I imagine him. He's wearing a suit that was crisp and slim-fitting a few weeks ago, but has since become torn at the knee and ringed with sweat-salt around the collar and armpits. He's given up on checking his long-dead cell phone for texts from his agent and is now just skulking towards nowhere in particular in a straight line, through cornfields and waist-high rivers. Brandon Jennings could really use a contract offer, you guys.
A few years ago, Jennings was saying the sorts of noncommittal things athletes say when they're not thrilled about their surroundings but don't want to completely alienate fans. (In the fall of 2010, Chris Broussard wrote about Jennings hinting at some day forming a superteam with Steph Curry and Tyreke Evans. In hindsight, that hypothetical team would be not at all super.) When Jennings was implying that he might test the free agent market in the somewhat distant future, he was coming off the heels of a promising rookie season in which he shot the ball horribly but scored a lot and was really entertaining to watch. His problem is that he's never improved markedly on his first impression, and it seems like he is now, entering his fifth season, simply a stylish point guard who misses a lot of shots. I actually enjoy watching him quite a bit, but then I'm not a Bucks fan. It's easier to be fascinated by a player when he's not actively killing your favorite team's chances of winning.
I keep comparing Jennings to Stephon Marbury in my head, though Basketball Reference is telling me I should rethink that comparison because Marbury, even at his chuckingest, was a much better distributor than Jennings. (Though Jennings gets bonus points for not being a complete lunatic.) Perhaps I conceive of Jennings as Starbury's spiritual successor because they're both tragic figures, in a way. I liked watching Marbury for the same reasons I like watching Jennings — 45-point or 17-assist performances all at once come out of nowhere — but both play the game in an exuberant, ultimately ineffectual fashion. They are entertainers, always trying to do cool things for the sake of doing them, but when entertainment and irrational self-belief become the tenets of player's game, he usually fails. Marbury had a transient career starring for teams that were either on the edge or firmly out of playoff contention. This And1 ad is a curiously apt summary of his mindset: "I don't play games, I don't negotiate… I ball."
You want to believe in that sort of brashness, but even the most talented player has to eventually sacrifice some part of his vanity in service of efficiency. Put another way: At some point, you have to choose between step-back 19-footers and winning basketball games.
Marbury, at least, got paid skyscraper-sized stacks of money to put up 16 shots a game on middling teams. The list of well-compensated players who scored a lot and didn't shoot well isn't short. My personal not-favorite is Larry Hughes, who got paid $70 million over five years to brick shots for the Cavs and inspired a hilariously infuriated fan to register the domain name HeyLarryHughesPleaseStopTakingSoManyBadShots.com.
Unfortunately for Brandon Jennings, it's not 2005. It's not even 2010, when the Memphis Grizzlies signed volume scorer and apparently half-blind person Rudy Gay to a five-year, $82 million deal. Jennings isn't as good as Larry Hughes was or Rudy Gay is, but he can't even finagle anything more than a $4.5 million qualifying bid from Milwaukee, who seem rather reluctant to even extend the offer. This is because, as SBNation's Kevin Zimmerman explains, his shooting numbers compare unfavorably with the thoroughly mediocre Ramon Sessions. GMs are not, as they might have been a few years ago, impressed by his point totals; they're scrutinizing how many and what sorts of shots he takes in order to get there.
This is good news for whatever NBA fanbase would have undoubtedly hated watching Jennings clank overly difficult jumpers for $8 million per year, but bad news for Jennings, who is a man without a league. This makes him someone to root for if you value idiosyncrasy and adventurousness in your athletes, but it's also makes him a shaky investment. He might yet transcend what he has become over the first four years in the league, but he'll have to revivify his career while making the sort of money he would have scoffed at a couple offseasons ago. The score-first point guard who can't shoot, like the no-offense big man or the small forward who can't guard anyone, is being driven to the margins of NBA relevancy. For better or for worse, players as inconsistently electric as Jennings scarcely matter anymore.


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Smokey and the Bandit (SHIRT) Kenworth Jerry Reed Drove
This is a Gary Blizzard T-shirt of the Kenworth W900A from the movie Smokey and the Bandit. These shirts are only avalaible at trucks show and now here at Semicrazy Truck Movies. There are a very limited supply of these here but you don't have to wait till your next truck show to get on of these very detailed ORIGINAL Gary Blizzard T-shirts. These are 100% cotton, Fruit of the Loom shirts with a one of a kind design on them. Thank you.


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