The Agony of Defeat

The intro to ABC's Wide World of Sports featured the legendary Jim McKay reminding us of "… the thrill of victory… and the agony of defeat… the human drama of athletic competition… " Ryan has become well-aquainted with both. As the the Boston Celtics return to their home to Massachussettes tonight, licking their wounds from their game seven loss to the Lakers, Ryan (no. 5 above) was reminded of how coming so close to winning it all leaves little consolation in the moment. His baseball team came within one dramatic out of winning his league's championship.

We are so grateful for the poise and gracious response his coaches showed in the midst of the drama and tension. We have been so impressed with the Cal Ripkin Little League and for Ryan's development in athletic skill as well as character. I try to point out to him that unfortunately he can't always win and that in some ways knowing that he can lose, makes the accomplishment of winning, just that much more rewarding. (I'm not sure if it's just because I am his dad, but it seems to give him little comfort)

His post-season award included a giant cupcake and a poster of the photo that you see below. He was invited to come back next year by his coaches and was praised for his development and contribution to the team.

Kid looks great in that uniform, doesn't he?