Sports as Service Above Self at Hope House

It was another Tuesday in Idaho. Lightning in the area sparked a large brush fire, and the forecast was for smoky skies with a high near 100 Degrees. That smoke meant that we would likely be playing volleyball in the gym this night rather than softball outside on the ball field.

Boise Sunrise Rotary has been making the trek to Marsing for over a decade to interact with the kids through sport. By sport, we mean that the intention is always to play Softball, but the reality is that “sports” is what it is all about. What sport actually gets played is always negotiable. The softball field is basic with a goat pasture next door. It is not uncommon for the goats to get out and graze in the field. But not during the games!

What impressed us the most was that the guys were playing hard but aware of their surroundings and holding back to not hurt anyone. There was a camaraderie that touched our hearts. Everyone congratulated each other for good plays and, although competitive, they had what we would call the Olympic spirit of good sportsmanship.

John Lodal

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