No, you
must join the usergroup in order to make picks.
1. Go to the User Control Panel, there's a link at the top of the page.
2. Click on the tab that says Usergroups.
3. Look for the group named Sports Fans, and select it. Make sure "Join selected" shows in the drop-down box and click the Submit button.
It's really easy, you won't have a problem. But you have to be a member of the group or you won't be able to see the threads.
If you do have trouble, I'll make a quick video next week, when I get back from my dad's.
.
Edit: And of course, while I'm writing, Estiveo did screencaps and all the steps are laid out. He rocks.