Significant happenings last month in very different sports gave me reason for hope when it comes to virtuous behaviour in sports. On one hand, we saw a positive new rule introduced by the National Football League, while at the same time we saw the rapid rise to world prominence of a classy Canadian tennis phenom.
One could argue that these are very different sports but that really shouldn’t matter. We are talking about the basic concept of how we as humans treat and respect each other across all sports.
Pope St. John Paul II would say, “Sports can build a more brotherly and united world,” and that athletes “must be trained in virtue and follow the divine Master in everything.”
We all are aware that young minds are greatly impacted by the behaviour that their favourite athletes and entertainers display both during their performances and in the decisions they make in their daily lives. Life often imitates art.
While all of us are called to live virtuous lives, nobody is without weaknesses. Today most athletes set the bar high when it comes to hard work, persistence, and goal setting. When it comes to virtues such as humility, gratitude, self-control, sportsmanship, and respect, we don’t always see the same effort. Change takes time, but I am encouraged by even small improvements.
In an effort to crack down on altercations and build more respect amongst opponents for the 2021 season, the NFL is ready to crack down on players “using taunting acts or words that may engender ill will between teams.” In my opinion this is a great move.
Sporting News reported a statement from the NFL competition committee saying, “These actions are clearly not representative of the respect to opponents and others on the field. We get sick and tired of it. We are trying to have sportsmanship while allowing players to have some fun.”
While some critics are calling the NFL the “No Fun League,” there are many supporters like Indianapolis Colts coach Frank Reich. ESPN reported an interview in which he said, “Taunting isn’t a good look … it isn’t a good thing for young kids to see.”
Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh, who is a devout Catholic, told The Baltimore Sun he is also in favour of the rule: “I agree with the idea. I mean sportsmanship is very important.”
There may be some players and sponsors who feel that fisticuffs, anger, and hatred sell tickets, but so far the league has withstood any pressure and is following through with conviction in an effort to bring back respect. As Pope Francis said recently, “Sports is not only a form of entertainment but also a tool to communicate values that promote the good that is in humans and help build a more peaceful and fraternal society.”
Meanwhile, the most incredible of the many compelling story lines at the 2021 U.S. Open tennis championships was the women’s singles final between Canada’s Leylah Fernandez and Great Britain’s Emma Raducanu (the eventual winner).
Not only did we have two teenagers competing in the final for the first time since 1999, but we also witnessed the unheard-of instance of two unseeded players reaching a grand slam final. Having one Cinderella story is always exciting, but to have two is really special.
Adding to this is the wonderful behaviour of both young women throughout the final and during their journey to the big stage. In the Canadian tennis community we have become very familiar with Fernandez’s maturity being well beyond her years (she just turned 19). This Quebec native, who has a Filipina mother and an Ecuadorian father/coach, is a delight to watch in action. Besides her intelligence, decision making, and calmness, this girl exudes joy. In her desire to entertain the audience, she not only plays an exciting brand of tennis but treats opponents and officials with respect and sportsmanship, not ever forcing the audience to endure negativity and loss of self-control.
Despite her quick rise in the Women’s Tennis Association rankings, she has an extremely high level of humility. This is very different approach from that of some past champions, especially Serena Williams. In post-match interviews after a victory Fernandez is well known for giving all the credit to her coaches. After losses she acknowledges her opponent’s efforts while solely accepting responsibility for the mistakes made.
It is believed that her close relationship with her family has given her good perspective and virtue training. Fernandez has often been asked about the influence her skill and performances are having on young girls, Filipinos, and Canadians. She has responded that she hopes to encourage them to fulfill their dreams, but I am personally happy that she is encouraging them to behave virtuously in sport.
As St. Pope JPII said, “May they (athletes) be sound models to imitate for all who admire them.”
Thank you, NFL and Leylah.
