Snap Judgment Podcast Summary: "The Wave" Episode
Podcast Information:
- Title: Snap Judgment
- Host/Author: Snap Judgment and PRX
- Description: Snap Judgment blends real stories with compelling beats to create cinematic, dramatic radio experiences. Their raw, musical storytelling encourages listeners to view the world through different perspectives—it's storytelling... with a BEAT.
- Episode: The Wave
- Release Date: April 10, 2025
1. Introduction to "The Wave"
In the episode titled "The Wave," Snap Judgment delves into the intriguing origins and cultural impact of one of sports' most iconic phenomena—the Wave. The story intertwines the journey of Crazy George Henderson, a charismatic cheerleader credited with popularizing the Wave, and Merritt Riley, a passionate Yankees bat boy whose encounter with baseball legend George Brett adds a dramatic twist to the narrative.
2. Crazy George Henderson: The Creator of the Wave
Early Life and Transformation into Crazy George
George Henderson's transformation from a shy individual to the exuberant "Crazy George" begins during his college years at San Jose State University. Initially known as Mike, George struggled with shyness and limited social interactions. However, his introduction to cheerleading marked a pivotal change.
- George Henderson: "I wasn’t shy anymore. I started using my personality, carrying the drum... I can change the face of a game." [09:07]
Invention and Introduction of the Wave
George's innovative approach to cheering culminated in the creation of the Wave during a pivotal playoff game for the Oakland A's against the New York Yankees. Faced with a tense, low-energy atmosphere, George introduced a sequential cheering technique that mimicked the movement of a wave across the stadium.
- George Henderson: "I wanted to try the Wave... if I pull it off here, this could be big." [20:07]
As sections of the crowd began to follow his lead, the Wave took shape, sweeping through the 47,000-strong stadium in a spectacle never before seen.
- George Henderson: "The Wave... just like a locomotive, it ripped by and they loved it." [23:54]
Rise to Fame and Spreading of the Wave
Following its successful debut, the Wave became George's signature cheer, leading to nationwide recognition and numerous professional opportunities. His role with the Oakland A's during their resurgence in the 1981 season solidified his status as a beloved figure in sports entertainment.
- Crazy George: "I could take the fans and get 10 times more reaction than they ever saw before." [18:13]
Controversy Over the Origin of the Wave
Despite George's claims, the Wave's origin became a subject of debate when the University of Washington asserted they were the true inventors. George contended that his October 15th debut preceded their October 31st claim.
- George Henderson: "I invented it on October 15th... They did it two weeks later." [27:05]
This dispute was further fueled by media coverage, including Sports Illustrated and appearances on major broadcasts, which often credited the University of Washington instead.
- Daniel Barbarisi (Reporter): "He invented the wave." [31:02]
Legacy and Final Farewell to the A's
The episode culminates with George's heartfelt participation in the Oakland A's final game at the Coliseum. As the city bids farewell to its beloved team, George leads one last Wave, symbolizing the enduring connection between the fans, the team, and the cultural phenomenon he helped create.
- Crazy George: "When I'm gone, they will be talking about the Wave. It means a lot to me." [34:34]
Notable Quotes
- George Henderson: "I’m hella mad. And today on Snap, that's not all we're setting the record straight on." [02:07]
- Crazy George: "Crazy George Henderson gets them all going and it's amazing. Think he's not pumped up?" [18:05]
- George Henderson: "I just like to laugh about it. But everybody calls it outside of this country, it's the Mexican wave. They invented it." [30:13]
3. Merritt Riley: The Yankees Bat Boy Incident
Early Life and Becoming a Bat Boy
Merritt Riley's journey as a bat boy for the New York Yankees began with a childhood ambition fueled by his love for the team. Despite initial rejections due to age and experience, Merritt's dedication eventually earned him the coveted position.
- Merritt Riley: "I'm kind of making fun of myself here... All of a sudden, everybody wanted to be my friend." [38:08]
The Infamous Pine Tar Game Incident
On July 24, 1983, during a high-stakes game between the Yankees and the Kansas City Royals, Merritt found himself at the center of a dramatic controversy involving George Brett. As Brett prepared to bat, Merritt hesitated to return a bat, leading to heightened tensions and accusations of cheating.
- Merritt Riley: "I'm not afraid to say that I was scared." [45:15]
- Crazy George: "George Brett looking around, wanting to know what's going on." [43:35]
The situation escalated when the Yankees' manager, Billy Martin, demanded the bat be checked for pine tar—a restricted substance. Amidst the chaos, Brett was initially called out, igniting further frustration among fans and players.
- Merritt Riley: "This is the biggest thing ever that's happened to me." [47:05]
Aftermath and Reflection
In the locker room aftermath, Merritt encountered George Brett, who surprisingly diffused the tension with humor and understanding. The incident left a lasting impact on Merritt, who reflects on his hero worship and the unforeseen consequences of his actions.
- Merritt Riley: "I still have not gotten that high five I was looking for." [50:27]
Eventually, Brett's controversial swing was overturned, reinstating his home run and shifting the narrative from accusations to admiration.
- George Henderson: "The umpires are gonna get together. Brett is out." [45:19]
Notable Quotes
- Merritt Riley: "You gotta keep it going." [26:10]
- Daniel Barbarisi: "This is going to be an interesting call." [44:35]
- Crazy George: "Now Brett is out. Look at this. He is out." [50:19]
4. Conclusion
"The Wave" episode of Snap Judgment masterfully intertwines two compelling narratives that explore the creation and cultural resonance of the Wave, as well as a personal anecdote from the world of baseball that underscores themes of passion, controversy, and reconciliation. Through engaging storytelling, dynamic quotes, and a seamless flow, the episode offers listeners a deep dive into the lives of those who left an indelible mark on sports culture.
Additional Resources
- George Henderson's Memoir: Still Crazy After All These Cheers—for an in-depth look at George's life and the true story behind the Wave.
- Further Listening: Explore Snap Judgment’s latest series, Fire Escape, which dives into the world of incarcerated women firefighters battling flames in California.
For more information and to read Merritt Riley's full story, visit snapjudgment.org.