The inception of our NFL pool started back in the late 80's with a core group of five members. It has expanded - along with the NFL - to the current membership of 11. I believe the impetus behind the pool was to enhance the overall pro football viewing experience. That it surely has, and then some. The Commissioner has always had a knack for bringing interest to a variety of sporting events over the years, but this pool is his crowning achievement. Certainly, in part, the improbable trip of the Patriots to the '86 Superbowl whetted our football appetite locally. The pool was a godsend during the Pats nadir years when Rod Rust & "Mac" MacPherson were at the helm - resulting in the NFL's version of a doormat. Unfortunately, like any ancient history, there was little formal documentation until the early '90s. At that time the Commissioner's "Greetings" letters kept the membership informed - albeit with some sharply-honed keystrokes - for the better part of a decade.  Zule emerged in the late '90s bringing the pool into the Internet age, allowing for weekly updates and real time email discussion.  Zule occasionally wanders into the prognostication & comment sector, often to the raised eyebrow of his constituency. Yes, whether administrator or member, there is no shortage of opinions when it comes to any aspect of the National Football League.

2010 update: a spinoff of ZP - being dubbed 'Son of Zule' - was launched over on CBS Sportsline.com: http://soz.football.cbssports.com. This weekly venture will hone the pick 'em skills of their membership during the regular season. A webpage has now been included on this site (SOZ page).
 

2013 update: It is with great regret and sadness to report that we have recently lost a great friend and fellow member of this pool, Joey P.  Joe and his wife JoAnn have graciously hosted our long time Superbowl party for the last several years. Being die-hard Pats fans, even regular season and playoff games were fun gatherings for family and friends at their house.
And speaking of die-hard fans, it is also with great regret to report the loss of my beloved father, Eugene, this year. The apple did not fall far from this tree. Dad's pigskin fanaticism was pervasive through the worst of seasons over the last 40 years. So the reward of experiencing three Patriots championships, along with over a decade of top tier play, was ever so sweet. Both Joe and Dad will be sorely missed!  

In a win/win for all pool members, the home team garners the Lombardi - and host JoAnn P. accepts the Pool trophy on behalf of Joe and their boys. We couldn't have asked for a more exciting season finale.   Congratulations, JoAnn!