God's Coaching #109

God's Coaching #109

Mallory Holtman graduated as the greatest softball player in Central Washington University history. She finished as the best home-run hitter in Great Northwest Athletic Conference history. But Mallory will be remembered for something she did in the field more than for what she accomplished with her bat. During a 2008 game that would decide a play-off spot, Mallory displayed an act of sportsmanship that grabbed national headlines.

In the second inning of a contest between Central Washington and Western Oregon, Western right fielder Sara Tucholsky belted a three-run home run over the center-field fence. Sara had never hit a home run during her four-year college career. She was so excited watching the ball that she missed first base and then twisted awkwardly when she turned to go back, which tore the ligaments in her knee. She crumpled to the ground and started to crawl back to the base. According to NCAA rules, teammates and coaches couldn’t help Sara around the bases.

That’s when Mallory stepped in. She called over Central Washington shortstop Liz Wallace, and the pair picked up Sara. They carried her to second base and let her touch the bag with her good leg. Then they walked to third. By the time the trio reached home plate, the entire Western Oregon bench was in tears at Mallory’s act of service. Even the fans and the Central Washington coach were crying.

What’s the Score?

Western Oregon ended up winning the game 4–2, which eliminated Central Washington from play-off contention. But nobody really cared. They knew they had witnessed one of the greatest acts of sportsmanship.

The book of Titus tells us to “learn to do good by meeting the urgent needs of others.” Mallory did that when she carried her opponent around the bases. Mallory said sports had taught her to be a better person. As Christians, we need to be aware of the needs of people around us. Do you have an elderly neighbor who needs help with yard work? Maybe you have a teacher who would appreciate help cleaning up the room after class. Perhaps you could share your lunch with a kid at school who can’t afford to bring one. God brings people into our lives for a reason, so look for ways to serve them.

On the Ball

Can you think of somebody in your life who has urgent needs? When you help people, you’re living a productive life for God.

Coach’s Comment

Our people must learn to do good by meeting the urgent needs of others; then they will not be unproductive. Titus 3:14