My sports bucket list

We've been challenged to come up with five sports related things we plan to (reasonably) do this semester while at the University of Massachusetts. And while I admittedly will use one we talked about in class, it's more of a challenge than I initially imagined.

1. Attend an Amherst College/Williams basketball game

OK, so after a quick Google search of the schedule, I've found they already played twice this season. That could prove to be difficult. They're also always top teams within their conference and this is one of the fiercest rivalries in the area. I'm adding it to the list in hopes they meet in the playoffs -- I attended an Amherst College playoff game last year by chance and really enjoyed it.

2. Play an intramural sport

I stink at sports, that's why I write about them. I've played a handful of pickup basketball games at the rec center but I've never actually played in an intramural game. Is it possible to walk on to a flag football team? I'm willing to break barriers.

3. Attend the Basketball Hall of Fame

It's right in our backyard, I really have no excuse.

4. Catch a Cathedral High School hockey game

I've been told this is a good high school hockey program with multiple potential UMass hockey recruits playing locally. Good hockey and something that may even help me with my job? Sold.

5. Attend the Sloan Sports Conference

Tickets are expensive and always in demand, but I'd love the chance to network and listen in on some of the best in the industry.

Now, I'll delve into five bucket list items that I need to do before I die.

6. Go to the Masters

How cool would it be to walk Augusta? That'd be tremendous.

7. Attend an Ohio State/Michigan football game

I passed up on an opportunity to do it this year and I'm still kicking myself. One of the most passionate rivalries in all of sports and two typically powerful football programs sounds like a great time.

8. Meet Wright Thompson

Is this a bit of brown-nosing considering he's visited the class before? Possibly, I don't quite know. All I know is that I love reading his stories and am fascinating to learn what makes him tick. If you gave me the option of meeting Michael Jordan or Wright Thompson, I'd probably take Wright.

9. Attend the Kentucky Derby

THOSE HATS.

10. Tailgate and attend an SEC football game

Just get me to a big one. A rivalry. I'll even settle for a fun day in nice weather. I just need to experience it.