Lessons in Leadership

Good leaders come in all shapes and sizes and colors. And all walks of life. They might be dressed in a power suit with a corner office. They may preach from a pulpit on Sunday mornings. They might even don shoulder pads and a helmet – and push people around. 

I know one like that.

Thursday night is senior night for the Assumption football team. While Benny here should be walking proudly on the field when his name is called. The team captain will be hobbling out on crutches after a season-ending injury at last week's game.

With all the COVID rules in place, Assumption fans weren't allowed at the Almond-Bancroft field last Friday. Home team fans only. Thankfully our school has an agreement with a sports live streaming entity that allowed us to see the game. 

Well, most of it.

When Benny was injured, the camera panned away out of respect. But it left some two dozen mothers in the viewing audience wondering if that was their son out there. Even at 200+ pounds, they're still someone's baby.

Ben's mom got some texts immediately that her boy was badly hurt. But none of them were specific about the nature of the injury. She was understandably in a panic, not knowing if it was a head injury or what. Finally, she got confirmation it was his knee or leg. Not that that minimizes it. She still got in her vehicle and drove the 40 minutes to the field. As any mom would.

She told me the next day that she got there in time for the end of the game – the Royals' third-straight victory this season. What happened after that was heartwarming, to say the least.

"I just want everyone to know how amazing the coaches and players were. My heart goes out to them. They were so supportive of Ben. I just want people to know how special that was," she said. After the game, they gathered around their team captain and offered prayers and sincere sentiments that they were playing for Ben and winning for him. 

And his coach commended him for playing with so much heart and soul. Every game. Every down. And, ultimately, setting a good example for the younger players to follow. Play strong. Don't give up.

A good team leader is tough on the field. And is kind off of it.

That's our Benny.

I'll be out of town but sending virtual hugs and high fives to you as you continue to mentor – from the sidelines this time. Stay amazing, kiddo!