There Are Few Personalities Which Will Draw a Universally Accepted Opinion Posted on August 3, 2025 at 00:10:52 AM by Stu Neiman
Player’s Managers especially draw a wide array of opinions based on an individuals experience and the “time” that they were in contact with “whichever” Jai - Alai personality.
Santi working with and for the Calder family had different expectations, pressures and motivations than when working for Mr. Birdoff (sp?). Also pre and post ‘88 Strike for pretty much all of the players managers.
But Santi was more than just the player’s manager he was an operator overseeing all departments. That was unique. Santi cared very much for players who took the game and their place within his operation seriously. Tremendous eye for young talent (Gioko, Sorozabal, Arteche, and many from years before). Like most of us, even if a player wasn’t the most skilled as long as he was respectful and could occasionally get a laugh out of Santi he was fine.
When crossed he was tough and he was not afraid to “teach players lessons” (I rarely asked details - on 2 occasions I got a call either at Ft. Pierce or Miami from Santi saying “So-and-So is going to call you and I’m asking you not to give him a contract. He needs to go home.” And I complied.
He was both tough and rational and very respectful of our group at FGC. Personally he always treated me well and was eager to help when I would be short for a Ft. Pierce season. But he kept the machine that was Orlando Jai-Alai going and focused on the sport. Replies:
Tiger's Jai-Alai Chalk Talk
