What's the measure of winning? Surely there can only be one team / player that ends on a winning note.
State Champion.
National Champion.
World Champion.
I believe it comes down to expectations. If you reach a certain plateau and know that taking the next level is well beyond your reach,... then if failure is met, winning doesn't seem to be much of a measurement. However, if your expectations are in line with success and you don't meet the mark,.. then winning becomes the end all. But should it really matter? Winners say 'yes' to this question, while the losing side says 'no'. Take for example the Notre Dame v. USC game to be played today. Clearly USC has dominated and created a history of winning over Notre Dame, yet will they fold or concede their season if they lose? I don't believe that's the way it goes. It's just a matter of dealing with the disappointment of losing before you pick yourself up, refocus on what's ahead, and talk of a new day where winning is the target. It's called competition - something we strive to eliminate in our schools because we don't want kids to have to deal with disappointment. It's why in some youth arenas the score is not kept. Right or wrong,... it's our way of helping the little ones cope and keeping some over-zealous parents in check.
Sam's tennis just wrapped up the State Tennis Tournament where he and his partner (Alex) made it to the third round before dropping a close one. Just over half of the flights on his team dropped matches in the third, with a few playing on.
"I don't want to talk. Not NOW." There were several of these conversations held between players and parents as the day went on, as teams lost their chance to define their season. I couldn't help but think that while these boys will take a few moments to drop to the depths of disappointment, it's the bounce back that really defines them. Ranked #4 in the State and shooting for the Team State Championship, I know that they are disappointed, but the fact remains that you play to compete, you compete to win, you define yourself and your team by where you are, where you want to be, and how will you get there.
"So, what's in store for next year?" I asked Sam as we sat on the couch at home after a long day of tennis.
"A lot of work," he replied.
Best answer I could have hoped for.
3 comments:
He knows what is ahead and that is wonderful for someone his age to realize. Congratulations Sam on all your accomplishments this year! David and Kim, I'm sure you are proud of all he has done!
Barb R.
Diappointments are good because it shows you really cared; however, disappointments dim with time. And . . . as the saying goes, there is always next year. As grandparents we too were disappointed for you and Alex, but also SO VERY PROUD of you and the season you have had.
CONGRATULATIONS again Sam on a GREAT tennis season! We are looking forward to next year.
With LOVE & PRIDE,
Grandpa & Grandma K.
Way to go Sam! I know it's a dissappointment, but I'm sure you gave it your all. Glad to hear you know there's work to do. There's always work to do! Best wishes Sam.
b.
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