Every now and then I hear about examples of great sportsmanship. I love the inspiration of seeing athletes rise above their own feelings and fears to reach out to their competitors.
An Example of Great Sportsmanship from Figure Skating
Recently at the Four Continents Figure Skating Championships, Team USA pairs skater Mark Ladwig had his skate break during his short program. He was given the allowed three minutes to return to the ice and finish the program.
While he was trying to decide whether to use duct tape or screws to fix his skate boot, he was handed a boot from a friend – and pairs competitor – Rudi Swiegers of Team Canada. Because Rudi and Mark wear the same size skates, Mark and his partner were able to complete their short program and the competition. Here’s more about the story from Team USA: Swiegers gives Ladwig the boot.
An Example of Great Sportsmanship from Softball
I first saw this video at The Zen Mama’s Blog in her Inspirational Movie Monday. It’s an amazingly beautiful example of sportsmanship … I still get teary-eyed every time I see it.
Become the Blessing
The description for the “Girls Softball Miracle” video on YouTube says simply
Throw away the selfishness…and let the beauty of helping others comes into our hearts. Be a blessing!
I can’t help but think of Ann Voskamp’s book One Thousand Gifts. Ann talks about finding joy through gratitude. And then she talks about the greatest gift – to become the blessing:
Here I can become the blessing, a little life that multiplies joy, making the larger world a better place. (p. 200)
That’s what true sportsmanship can do in sports – and in life. I think we all need to look at how we can show the best possible sportsmanship, whether it’s in a sport, in school, at work, or in any life situation. Let’s focus on what’s more important than “winning” – being a person of character and integrity … encouraging our friends and competitors … being a blessing whenever we can.
“How You Played the Game” Word-Art Freebie
Related Posts
Transforming Wounds into Words – Ann Voskamp
One Thousand Gifts (Book Review)
“As Long As Thanks Is Possible” Word-Art Freebie
How to Help Your Kids Have an Attitude of Gratitude- Be the Best You Can Be
- Abby Rike Gives Inspiration to Live Today
A Brave Heart and a Truly Beautiful Woman – Lizzie Velasquez
Free Mindfulness Resources from Calm
I always love that Softball youtube as well! I watched so many times. I really think I’ve got to read One Thousand Gifts one of these days. I’ve seen it mentioned on other blogs, too.
Twitter: thezenmama
Thanks for your comment, Betsy! I’m so glad you had that video on your site – I’m inspired every time I see it! I think you’d enjoy reading One Thousand Gifts. Even if you don’t agree with everything theologically, the book has much inspiration and insight to offer!
Great post. There’s definitely something about a person who can switch on and off being very competitive like that!
Twitter: kirstygirl
Thanks, Kirsty! I love getting inspiration from those types of examples!
Thank you so much for linking up Deb! You’re the best!
Twitter: kirstygirl
Thanks for your sweet comment, Kirsty! I love your cruelty-free link-up!
Thanks for a feel good moment this morning! It’s wonderful to hear about athletics who rise above the game to show real character!
Thanks for your kind comment, Melinda! Have a great weekend!
An amazing video and story. Thanks so much for sharing this! I know this is one we can share with the youth we work with!
Thanks, Sherry! I agree that the video would be great to share with any young people!
Deb
Thank you for stopping by, please let me know how to follow you and I will.
keep up the great work on your blog
hugs n blessings
Gina
Thanks for your kind comment, Gina! Whichever way of following me under “Connect With Me” in the right sidebar that works best for you would be great! Hugs and blessings to you, too!
Deb,
Found you via incourage. Loved the softball video. What a tear-jerker!
You have a very full, information-packed blog.
jan
Thanks so much for your kind comment, Jan!