Most people who know me know that I’ve been playing sports in a local adult sports league for the past four years. Furthermore, the primary sport that I play is none other than the good ole elementary game of kickball. Once you finish laughing at the fact that I regularly play a sport that is most popular among third graders, I must say, don’t mock it until you’ve tried it:-) I’ve had so much fun over the past four years, it’s a great way to stay active, and I’ve met so many good friends and acquaintances in Nashville through the Nashville Sports Leagues (NSL).

Anyway…

Playing in this adult sports league has made me think time and time again that you can truly tell soooo much about a person by how they handle themselves in a sporting event. That being said, it’s really not just a game, it’s so much more. Sporting events provide a glimpse at the true character of a person.

Think about it, there are so many characteristics of a person that are exhibited throughout a competitive sporting event. Do you show up for games when you commit to doing so or do you leave your team hanging without enough players? Are you accountable? Do you take the initiative to pay your league fees each season or do you make the captain hunt you down for it? Are you a good communicator? Do you communicate with your teammates on and off the field? How do you speak to your teammates? Are you condescending or encouraging? Do you dwell on mistakes or do you pull from the positives and motivate your team? Do you show respect for your teammates, opponents, umps, fans, etc. even if you don’t agree with them? Do you argue with the ump after every call? Do you realize that your teammates and the umpires are only human and they do make mistakes…just like you? Do you allow your temper to rage or do you brush things off easily? Do you exhibit a good work ethic on the field or are you lazy? Do you value teamwork or are you just playing to pump up your own ego? Do you have an optimistic outlook or are you pessimistic? Are you a sore loser? Are you a pompous winner? Do you shake hands with the opposing team after each game?

So much about your true character can be gleaned from how you handle yourself as an athlete. Some people may argue that they are a different person when playing sports than when they are off the field and that it’s no big deal. I would have to disagree with all my heart.  You cannot divide your life into segments. You cannot be one person at work, another at sporting events, another with friends, etc. You might attempt to do so, but who you are is simply that; who you are. You may think that you can divide your life into little sectors, acting as a different person in different settings. While that may work for awhile, eventually who you truly are (all sides and all characteristics) will show through. Besides it’s too complicated, confusing, overwhelming and difficult to segment your life. Be who you are…always.

It’s more than just a game, it’s a lasting impression.