February 24, 2006

Autistic Basketball Player


Quick, somebody run and grab the movie rights to this:

"CBS ran an incredibly powerful story tonight that brings you to your feet and just keeps on giving each and every minute into it. Jason McElway, an autistic high school basketball team member in Rochester NY, served as the team manager and spirit coach for several years. On the final game of the season the coach let him finally put on a uniform with the rest of the team. Watch what happens then... "

Posted at February 24, 2006 5:34 PM | TrackBack
Comments

Occasionally in sport, more often in amateur settings than among the professionals, a competitor or a contest arrives on the scene that thoroughly symbolizes all that is good and decent about "playing fair."

Young Jason McElway competed for his team with all of his ability and talent tirelessly at ONE level for years. His coach, Jim Johnson, was inspired to offer him a "RUDY," a chance to participate and play at a different level. And, the result was a time forever magically and forever etched in the lives and memories of Jason, his teammates, family, fans, opponents AND the rest of us.

Thank you, JIM JOHNSON, for reminding us all that sport is not intrinsically about winning, but it is all about PLAYING.

bjm

Posted by: Brian J. Mulcrone at March 23, 2006 6:30 PM