Sandy Koufax Still Teaches Us About Character

With all the negative sports stories at the professional and collegiate level and the absence of athletes' serving (or wanting to serve) as role models, here's a story worth re-reading by folks of all faiths about Sandy Koufax.  This renewed athlete refused to pitch on Yom Kippur -- during the World Series no less.  Yes, true.  https://bit.ly/1V88LBX.  On the eve of Yom Kippur today, it is a story worthy of our attention.

The decision Koufax made to not pitch in order to show respect for the views of others of his faith on the holiest day of the year -- even if one did not celebrate oneself -- teaches us a lot.  Indeed, I'm wondering how many collegiate athletes know and understand this story.  Situations often call for us to stand on our principles and it is often only when one is pressed hard that one sees one's real character (or its absence).  Koufax showed remarkable character -- and his team did win the series as I recollect.  It's also an example of remembering where one came from, regardless of one's success.

We see golfers and other athletes leave their games when their wives are giving birth.  We have seen other athletes take a leave for a death of a close family member.  I am wondering when else this happens.  Might be worth reflecting on what can reflect the true character of those who play collegiate and professional sports.  Are there many Koufax's out there?  Sure hope so.