thletics Junior Marcus Ezell brings his opponent down during the Homecoming game, Oct. 21. The Bisons defeated the UNA Lions with a come from behind score of37-36. Photo by Mark Kinonen. Individuals first, then athletes From track to football, from court to field, the Harding Bison athletes prove that there is more to sports than winning and losing. It's all about attitude. A lot of teams carry school pride onto the field, and there is nothing wrong with that, but we, as Christians, are called to carry something higher. The core ofthe game lies within the attitude ofthe individual. Coach Franco Zengaro said it best last fall during a chapel introduction of the men's soccer team. "They are individuals first, then athletes," he said. Before you can compete, and compete well, you have to be mentally focused, knowing that your best is all that you can give. Believing that you have done your best is not always easy. There is this constant voice within that is telling you that you could have done better. If only you had pushed yourself a little further. If only you had jumped a little higher. If only you had done this or that. If only. A good game is the result of teamwork, which is the result of each individual focusing their thoughts on having a positive attitude when things don't work out the way they had planned. An athlete who enjoys the sport and has a good time playing draws our attention more than one who dwells on the ball he just fumbled or being three seconds away from making his best time. You have to learn from your mistakes. Win or lose, you have to leave everything that you have out on the field or court, not regretting anything. Everyone can be a winner, itjust depends on the perspective you choose to view it from. Ifyou play your best and run your fastest, you still come out on top. You don't have to win to be a winner. - Dustin Vyers, athletics editor ~D~iv~l~·s~i~on~ ______________ ~~ Athletics ~
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