sportsmanship

FROM ONE OF OUR PILOT SITES. Awesome, AWESOME feedback...

Sportsmanship: a vital part of the Ready, Set, Run Program.

On May 9^th, 2011 the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in 29 Palms, Ca. participated in a Southern California Municipal Athletic Federation state qualifying meet in Palm springs Ca. The bases 15 Ready, Set, Run enrollees participated as part of the track team. Two of our boys were entered into the 400 meter run. They both qualified for the finals. At the finish line both crossed in third and fourth place. This is where the part of sportsmanship kicks in.

Our teams Michael Draper finished fourth but was awarded third. At the time third place finishers would qualify to go to state meet. This was not caught by the officials nor our coaches. This bothered Michael and he took the matter to his Stepfather. They discussed it and brought it to my attention. After talking to this young man I told him I would proceed to have it looked at by meet officials. Before anything could be done Michael took it upon himself to go to the other athlete and present him with the medal. Wow!! The true meaning of sportsmanship. I was truly impressed by the actions of this young athlete. Word got around to meet officials and the commented to me that this normally has to be settled at the state level. They too were impressed.

I believe that the Ready, Set Run program had a impact on his actions. Part of the core curriculum of leadership helped this trackster make a positive but tough decision.