Back in the day, I was a sports prodigy, strutting my stuff on the diamond with the Giants for a few glorious years, followed by some intense gridiron action with the Vikings a few years later! Sure, it was just Little League and junior high, but hey, I was basically the Michael Jordan of playground sports—minus the tall shoes and endorsements!

In all seriousness,

“Heart is what separates the good from the great.”

– Michael Jordan

Participating in sports offers numerous benefits for both children and adults. For children, engaging in sports fosters essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. These formative experiences help build self-esteem and promote physical health, encouraging youngsters to lead active lifestyles. Additionally, sports can create a sense of belonging, helping children forge friendships and develop social skills that carry into adulthood.

For adults, the positive impact of sports continues to resonate. Regular participation in physical activities can enhance mental well-being, reduce stress levels, and promote a healthier lifestyle. Furthermore, playing sports often leads to the establishment of community connections, as individuals engage in local teams or leagues, fostering relationships and a sense of camaraderie.

On the other hand, watching sports also has its advantages; it brings people together, igniting passion and uniting fans in shared experiences. Whether cheering for a favorite team or discussing the latest match, the communal aspect of sports can strengthen bonds and create lasting memories.

SPORTS I’D PLAY VS. WATCH?

Baseball

Though I wasn’t the greatest player in the world (or in my hometown), I nonetheless did my very best and I think much of my sense of teamwork and collaboration comes directly from my formative years playing the game on the diamond. After two surgeries to correct a torn meniscus (the same knee), my heart is in it, but the rest of me would be in revolt!

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of watching MLB games, especially in person, where the energy is electrifying! I also adore heading to our local minor league baseball team on Fireworks Fridays—there’s just something magical about cheering for the Cubbies and after a win have the sky light up with fireworks!

Football

Flashback to school where my coach put me in at guard (I was like 110 lbs. of weakness), and he helped me to realize quickly that as a football player, I make a great track star.

Being fast had its advantages. When playing flag football, I was always pretty quick to rip the opposition’s flag from their belt, and fleet footed enough to keep from getting my own taken.

As for watching, although as a kid I loved the Vikings and the Colts (the Baltimore variety naturally), I tend to catch a game every now and then when I am free on the weekends, with the Super Bowl my can’t miss (even with Taylor Swift involved).

Track & Field

Although my daughter ran long distance in high school in both track and cross country, my forte back in those days was super-fast events for super-short distances. I could never quite get past that stitch in my side if I ran for too long.

The Olympics would be where I love watching the sport, as it’s such a spectacle that it’s hard to not root for the US team (those Usain Bolt days!).

Otherwise, watching track & field events on a Saturday is a bit too much like watching paint dry.

Horse Racing

My love of this sport again was inspired by my childhood, in this case, the love a book by Walter Farley. His series on the Arabian stallion rescued by young Alec Ramsey after a shipwreck and the bond between them leading them to an exciting match race in the first book’s conclusion made me a fan of horse racing for life.

Although I don’t usually bet too much more than the base $2 on the races, it’s just fun to check out the horses beforehand and cheer them on as they round the final curve and pour it on down the home stretch. I may have gotten by with being a jockey back in my football days at 110 lbs. but doubt it would have lasted long. I don’t usually get into horse racing on television but do enjoy it live when the season kicks off.

Basketball

Again, I’m more of a fervent watcher from the sidelines than a gifted player on the court. My heart soared when our Bulldogs made it to State back in the day; it was a thrilling moment filled with pride and excitement! Alas, while I cheered with all my soul, I wasn’t part of those incredible teams, but the fire of support I felt will forever be a cherished memory.

These days, I still enjoy a game of H-O-R-S-E or Around the World, but don’t get a lot of chances to play (that knee of mine wouldn’t allow it!).

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN

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Now that I’ve shared some of my favorites, I’d love to hear from you! What sports do you enjoy playing or watching? Share your experiences and the stories behind your choices in the comments below. Let’s celebrate our love for sports together!