An “A” Player

Our oldest grandson Jack, age 10, plays on a 4^th grade football team. Having played flag football for a couple of years, this is the first season in pads, and it’s a whole new ballgame. His position is wide receiver – out on the fringe. At this level, hand-offs are more successful than passes, so he doesn’t see a lot of action and has few opportunities to touch the ball. In spite of this, Jack loves the game and loves playing with his teammates.

The first game of the season, his team won handily, defeating the opponents by more than three touchdowns, and Jack was excited! He called to give us the play-by-play. The exhilaration in his voice made us think that he had scored every point. But that was not the case. Although he was on the field playing his position, he never came in contact with the ball. Yet his enthusiasm for his teammates was palatable. In describing the action, he said, “…and then my friend Jachin ran the ball across the goal line.” “And then my friend Gus tackled a runner and kept the other team from scoring.” On and on – with great pride and passion – he reported the successes of his friends.

I’m happy to report that in subsequent games Jack had a couple of good runs, one that set up a touchdown on the next play.

But here’s the truth. Football may not be Jack’s game. He may never shine on the gridiron, but his unconditional support of his team makes him a star in my book. He’s the kind of guy who is as happy for the success of others as he is for his own. He lifts up others without hesitation and is a genuine encourager.

So, am I a biased grandmother? Of course, I am! All six of our grandchildren are “A” players…articulate, ambitious, attractive, academic, artistic, awesome, amusing, adorable. (OK. I admitted that I’m biased.) But it came to my attention during this season of fourth-grade football that Jack is an “A” player who acknowledges others. He scores big-time in attitude, and – wouldn’t you agree – that is one of the most-needed characteristics in athletics…and in life.