Canadian Thanksgiving: 5 Bits of Sporting Thankfulness
1. NCAA Football Madness
I have never tried to holdback my dislike for the NCAA. They are an evil organization that makes a lot of money off the backs of athletes and then claims the athletes should be thankful. However, their football season is done right. It creates crazy matchups and must win games every week. The drama will pull in the casual sports fans but it must be just insanity for those with a vested interest. I could not imagine being a fan of Mississippi State or Baylor this morning. I would not want to be a fan of underachieving UCLA. It seems like the season hinges on every game but there is a playoff on the horizon as well.
2. The Athletic Good Guys
Too many headlines are being dominated by the child abusers and criminals. Not all athletes are bad guys. In fact, a lot of them give back and do a lot to help their community. Even if they only do their job, a huge percentage demonstrate a great work ethic and a desire to improve. While we focus on the Petersons and Rices, look around and see how many of these athletes are positive contributors to their communities. Not everyone is charging for autographs and many are not spoiled brats. Despite the high pedestals we put them on, many come down and to say hi and thank you.
3. The Baseball Playoffs
Time and again, baseball proves that riches do not guarantee success. While the rich teams have an advantage, there are many examples of their hundred million dollar payrolls missing out on the Promised Land. It’s even better when poorer organizations compete and knock them off. Let’s go Royals!
4. My Players
It is funny to see comments from former players wondering why I continue coaching after what they think they put me through. Truth: You are the reason I coach and I will continue to keep coaching. I hear a lot of, "I don’t know how you do it?” But honestly, I don’t know what I would do without it. It makes my day when I hear from former players and parents whether it is an email, random meeting or a like on Facebook. Coaching has given me my share of headaches but it has given me a thousand times the enjoyment and reward. Besides, it’s just fun being called Coach. Anyone who doubts the generations to come should meet some of the players I have coached; they give me faith.
5. The Ability to Watch in Peace
I don’t mean the ability to watch sports without interruption. It is inevitable that someone will enter the room and interrupt our viewing pleasures. They may even ask questions we would rather not answer at that time. (Thank goodness for the ability to pause.) But we get to watch in peace and enjoy the tranquility that Canada and a lot of the world have to offer. We live in a pretty special time and we need to work our best to maintain it. We should also be thankful to those who risk their lives every day to afford us that luxury. Open your eyes and remember how good you have it. Even if the Lions and Leafs lose today, the sun will come up tomorrow and we will get to enjoy the day in a way many only dream of.
