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Wow, it was only the wee hours of November 10, 2009, that a 21-year-old kid from Michigan won the World Series of Poker Main Event in the Penn & Teller Theater at the Rio All-Suites Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

 

In one of the most improbable and incredible comebacks in poker history, Joseph Cada went from 1% of the chips in play, to capturing them all, and in so doing, becoming the reigning world champion of poker, collecting $8.5 million in prize money and procuring the baddest bracelet a 21-year-old could ever dream of.

 

Now fast forward ten days to today.  Baby-faced Cada has turned 22, appeared on the CBS Early Show, CNN, Letterman, a myriad of ESPN outlets, Fox Business Channel, Bloomberg TV and countless other media outlets, regaling others in his remarkable story from unknown to world champion.

 

He has been home to Michigan then on to New York, to the worldwide leader's headquarters in Bristol, Connecticut and back home to Michigan since winning the bracelet.

 

Cada has sat in the first row at a WWE wrestling event, taken in a New York Rangers game, will be on the sidelines for the big Ohio State-Michigan clash in Ann Arbor and then plans to be out in Los Angeles for more media opportunities and sponsor obligations.

 

It's a good thing the champion is so young and spry because he has been one busy guy!

 

What's most remarkable is the poise and maturity in which Cada has handled himself throughout.  Anyone who had the fortune (or misfortune) of playing at his table during the World Series of Poker knows what an affable and respectful player he is.

 

To then, with little sleep and without time to reflect on his accomplishments, be thrust out into the public swarm and be so willing and able to make himself available, and do such a good job carrying the poker mantle, has been an incredible thing to watch.  He has not complained and always has a smile on his face and makes others more relaxed.

 

All of us in poker should tip our hats to young Joey Cada.

 

People can debate whether winning the World Series of Poker Main Event Championship should come with a poker ambassador duty as well.  But what you can't argue with, is that with Cada front and center since his improbable victory, he has seized his newfound celebrity in the same manner he did his bracelet -- taking advantage of the opportunities that presented themselves -- and smiling all the way.