Sportsmanship 101

At the Gainesville State School, in Gainesville, Texas, the young men can earn the privilege of playing on the basketball team.  During the season, the team travels to 4 or 5 schools for games.  Being a correction facility for felony offenders, their fan base is close to zero.  Parents rarely come and the other inmates aren’t allowed to attend.  The Vanguard College Prep School, in Waco, Texas, was on the playing schedule.  Hudson Bradley and Ben Martinton, Vanguard players, decided that it wasn’t the best playing conditions if the Gainesville team didn’t have supporters.  Before the game, the two young men went to the gym, explained their idea, and asked half of the adults, half of the students, and half of the cheerleaders to sit on the opposite side of the gym and cheer for their opponents.  The cheerleaders even had time to make a few signs.  Obviously, the Gainesville players were stunned when they entered the gym with a receiving line to welcome them.  The “Visitor” side of the gym erupted in cheers for the Tornados.  Eventually, both sides were cheering on the Gainesville players, as well as their own.  After the game, one of the Gainesville players said, “That’s something I won’t forget.  When I’m an old man, I’m sure I’ll be thinking about this.”  Vanguard athlete Hudson Bradley responded, “This is kind of how sports should be.  It showed me the impact that encouragement and support for anybody can make.  We all need someone to believe in us.  Someone who knows our mistakes and loves us anyway.”

Basketball teams, in eastern Kentucky, were playing in the state playoffs.  The Pike Central band arrived early, set up, and was ready to play for their team.  Due to a bus driver shortage, the Martin County High School band didn’t attend the game.  Some students noticed and asked their Band Director, Mr. Johnson, if they could play to cheer on the Cardinals, even  though they were usually their opponents.  He agreed and the students played several songs throughout the second half of the game.  After the game, the Martin County players said it helped level the playing field and helped them win in overtime.  Several of their fans stayed to cheer on Pike Central and their band in the next game.  Unfortunately, the Pike Central players did not win their game or advance to the finals.  The following Monday, the Martin County band invited the Pike Central band to play with them for the state playoffs.  Mr. Johnson and the band excitedly accepted the invitation.

 It’s always a good time to practice sportsmanship.

 

 

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.

Romans 12:10

 

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

Colossians 3:12