GOOD EXAMPLE: Woodbridge star Christine Babcock did a good job of handling a tough loss this past weekend at the Arcadia Invitational, taking time to congratulate the winner and to pose for photos with fans. THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER FILE PHOTO |
OCVarsity Voice: Athletes must learn how to handle losing
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Showing sportsmanship in defeat reveals a lot about an athlete, says Jason Eichelberger.
As I watched many of the nation’s elite track and field athletes compete last weekend at the prestigious Arcadia Invitational, there was a scene that repeated itself with refreshingl regularity, about the only thing refreshing on a sweltering afternoon.
The seeming lost art of good sportsmanship was in full effect, as after nearly every competition, the winning athlete was congratulated heartily by not only the crowd, but the other competitors who had battled to earn the same recognition but came up short in their quest for victory.
In an age where the competitive will to succeed has overshadowed the pure spirit of good competition, the conduct by which the non-victorious athletes at Arcadia carried themselves should not only be commended, but used as a shining example of how all athletes should conduct themselves in all sports at every level.
For some of these great athletes, the competition level was higher than they have ever endured. Many were forced to deal with the reality of not winning for the first time in a long time, maybe their entire careers. Yet on numerous occasions, the congratulatory handshakes, hugs, and well wishes for the victor showed that the true greatness of these athletes extends past the field of competition.
Engrained in all serious athletes is the ideal that losing should never be accepted or tolerated. From the first time kids are introduced to athletics, many are conditioned to do whatever it takes to win and enjoy the prosperity that comes with being victorious. However, athletes should also be equally versed to understand that losses will be part of the sporting equation and that proper handling of defeat can go a long way toward defining an athlete and his or her legacy.
Known primarily for her dominance on the track, Woodbridge star Christine Babcock showed that even in the face of disappointment, her graciousness and sportsmanship speak volumes about the person inside the uniform.
After finishing second to Mission Prep junior Jordan Hasay in one of the most memorable races ever in the Arcadia Invitational, Babcock had every reason to blow off the moment and show her disdain for not coming through with the victory. However, she did the opposite, embracing both Hasay and the crowd. She even posed for photos and signed autographs in a scene steeped with class and humility.
As an ex-athlete myself, it took me years to understand the concept that was so prevalent at Arcadia, and by the time I did, my athletic career was over.
My plea to prep athletes throughout the county in all sports is to accept the entire spectrum of sportsmanship, both in good times and bad times. A more enriching athletic career awaits those who do.
Contact the writer: jeichelberger@ocregister.com
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