Getting to Know the Man Behind the Mic: Joe Rhodes, Up Close and Personal

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Joe Rhodes took over the announcing duties for the Patriot Wrestling team during the 2011-2012 season, bringing a new level of energy, excitement, and entertainment to home competitions.  But who is the REAL Mr. Rhodes? Let's find out.

Patriot Wrestling:  First off, are there any nicknames you have been called or pseudonyms you have gone by?

Joe Rhodes:  "Red"

Patriot Wrestling: Interesting...Now, we know you are originally from Perryville, where you played baseball for the Perryville Pirates.  What was, or has been, your greatest sports moment?

 Joe Rhodes:  I was awarded the "Dirtiest Uniform" award.  If your uniform is clean, you ain't playin'.  Know what I'm sayin?

Patriot Wrestling:  Loud and clear.  What people have had the greatest influence on your life?

Joe Rhodes:  Family, for sure.  I believe Christopher Lasch said it best "Family is a haven in a heartless world."  Family....and John Wayne.

Patriot Wrestling:  Why John Wayne?

Joe Rhodes: You don't mess with the Duke.

Patriot Wrestling:  Right.  Who is your favorite athlete?

Joe Rhodes:  Jim Lake.  He is relentless on the coed softball field.

Patriot Wrestling:  What is your favorite quote?  Words to live by?  Motto?

Joe Rhodes: I've always liked the legendary coach John Wooden who said, "No whining.  No complaining.  No excuses."

Patriot Wrestling:  Good one.  What is the best sports advice you ever received?

Joe Rhodes:  "Show up, shut up, and play hard."  I have tried to bring this philosophy to my announcing game.....except for the shut up part, of course.

Patriot Wrestling:  Of course.  What is your craziest ambition?

Joe Rhodes:  I always like a challenge.  Since I've started announcing Patriot wrestling meets, I've gotten to watch Coach Tom Dailey in action.  I have a great respect for Coach Dailey, but any man can be beat on any given day.  Therefore, my current ambition is to throw on the ol' singlet and wrestle Coach Dailey.  I think I can take him.  Ya hear me Touchdown?!

Patriot Wrestling:  Wow. 

Joe Rhodes:  Ya hear me?!!!!

Patriot Wrestling:  Ok, moving right along. Tell us something about you that most people don't know.

Joe Rhodes:  I can quote any line from Patrick Swayze movies.

Patriot Wrestling:  Any?

Joe Rhodes:  Any.

Patriot Wrestling:  Dirty Dancing?

Joe Rhodes:  "Nobody puts Baby in a corner."

Patriot Wrestling:  Ghost?

Joe Rhodes:  "Its amazing, Molly. The love inside, you take it with you."

Patriot Wrestling:  Scary.....Finally, what are your thoughts on the sport of wrestling?

Joe Rhodes:  I wish my high school had a program.  I think I could have been good at it.  It is tough, and requires work ethic and self discipline--both skills I possess.  I could have been the Perryville version of Dan Gable.