Those who know me know that I love the sport of wrestling. I was probably one of the worst three-time letter winners out of the state of Pennsylvania, and at 6’5″ I am more of a wrestler trapped in a basketball player’s body, but the sport means more to me as I have matured and can see how it has helped to form me. As a parent, I take great pleasure in watching my 10 year-old son wrestle–win or lose.
So, having a love for a sport that so aptly fits my “well-centered fitness” concept, I love when I see stories such as the following:
http://khak.com/iowa-high-school-wrestler-forfeits-to-honor-opponent-who-died/
High school boys are just not naturally wired for selflessness. No one wants to lose. Here, though, is an example of the greatest strength that an athlete can demonstrate–compassion. For this athlete–and most certainly his parents, coaches, and team–this is the most impressive statistic in his win-loss record. Years from now, few may remember his record, but everyone will remember this loss as one of his greatest victories. This is to me why we sign our kids up for sport. We always want our kids to win, but sometimes the greatest win is the tie they lost.
In my opinion, Amed Castro-Chavez was the most valuable wrestle in that single loss. Talk about carpe friggin’ diem!