Class Act...

Sports are a few things. They're entertainment, they're money makers, they're game day crowds and they're couch quarterbacks. They give us something to talk about in between innings and in between games.

Coulda, woulda, shoulda....and "back when I played..."

My family is a big sports family, so we're pretty intense. We get super involved in the teams, in the players, in the games. If any of you follow me on twitter you know I'm currently HYPED about the Mavs in the playoffs and I maybe have said on a few occasions that Dirk is my homeboy. Dirk does not know me. He probably wouldn't claim to be my homeboy but as he hits a fade-away jumper at the buzzer he is, in fact, my homeboy.

I digress...sports can symbolize a lot of things. Hard work, determination, knowing how to win, knowing how to lose, teamwork, mental and physical toughness, pursuit of a dream and sometimes the will to win at all costs. Sometimes athletes and franchises can get a poor name or a bad reputation based on actions taken in attempt to win at any and all cost. It feels like this day in age we hear so much about college players being paid under the table and getting treatment that's against the rules. Coaches resigning for immoral or improper acts and schools facing sanctions and violations....

But every once in a while we get to hear one of the good stories. One of the stories of hard work and dreams rewarded. Where a kid gives his all, works hard and it's noticed. Yesterday, in the 2011 player draft, the Texas Rangers took Johnathan Taylor, a paralyzed player for the Georgia Bulldogs in the 33rd round. It was a moment that made me so proud to cheer for the Rangers. So proud to support their ball club with my cheers, my effort, and my money whenever I'm lucky enough to head to Arlington for a game. You can read the full article here. (And it's worth it!!)

Johnathan broke his neck in an outfield collision on March 6th. He was a talented player that most certainly, would have gone pro were it not for his injury. How refreshing to see Texas draft him despite what he could do for them. For once, it was the other way around. Knowing they will get nothing in return, they gave him and his family a little hope, some excitement, and a day of celebration for the talent the Rangers saw in Johnathan.

Class act, Texas Rangers. I can't wait to follow Johnathan Taylor and I pray one day we can celebrate him walking again!