The Shaq Is Back

Tonight ABC is premiering a new reality show called, "Shaq's Big Challenge".

Billed as family entertainment, the show follows 4 time NBA champion Shaquille O'Neal as he inspires and influences 6 overweight middle-school children struggling with obesity.

A National Epidemic

The show, Shaq's Big Challenge, was taped last winter in Shaq's resident state of Florida, where it is reported than more than 11% of the middle-school population is overweight. However national statistics (Provided by the AOA) state that more than 30% of children ages 6-11 are overweight and more than 15% ages 12-19. The dramatic rise is attributed to poor dietary habits and lack of physical exercise.

Well, things are about to change...

No More Fast Food, Soda or Potato Chips
The last time I had seen Shaq, he was appearing in a Bally's (or was it 24-hour fitness?) television commercial. Has Shaq been travelling the country teaching our youth the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and where was I? Believe me, if Shaq was my instructor, I would have spent more time in gym class (or been too intimidated by the 7 foot giant not to attend).

Admittedly though my first choice for this type of show would have been Arnold Schwarzenegger, who has phenomenal experience conducting fitness camps with youngsters around the country for the past 10 years, however the "Governator" is busy handling more pressing duties.

Shaq Attack!

I had met Shaq a few years back when I was working in broadcasting and he was quite charismatic, despite physical appearance and having self-imposed nicknames such as "Diesel, Daddy, Diesel, Mad Mountain, Big Aristotle, Big Kahuna, Superman, and yes even Wilt Chamberneezy" (Kobe Bryant's nickname for Shaq), it is amazing to see that he is a wonderful and caring person - especially with children.

For those that do not follow basketball, Shaq's illustrious career in the NBA as always the Center position has earned him the title of one the "50 Greatest Players in NBA History", 3 Rookie of the Year awards, 4 Championships, several MVP awards, and numerous NBA playoff and franchise records.

In addition, Shaq has had a simultaneous career in the Film industry (Steel, Blue Chips, Kazaam, Scary Movie 4, and Good Burger) - okay, so maybe it was not a career. Shaq has also had forays into the music industry and released 5 or 6 albums (I have one of them somewhere) and numerous appearances on the tracks of other artists. As well, uncountable appearances in video games (He is a video game) and television.

Had Enough?
Shaq's resume is filled to brim with amazing accomplishment - it is not a wonder that he is inspiring to many and I cannot think of anyone better to take on this mission.

Shaq's Big Challenge airs tonight on ABC.