"It is necessary to try to surpass one's self always; this occupation ought to last as long as life." Queen Christina
Last night was basketball night. I was too small to 
play in school, so I went to playgrounds. I’ve played nearly every week since 1985. I used to joke that no matter who showed up, I was the worst guy on the court. After several years, I realized that was a mistake. If I’m going to play, I figured, I may as well get better. So I began practicing, going early to shoot, staying after to shoot free throws when my legs were tired. I began watching basketball on TV, not for entertainment, but to see how players moved without the ball. I learned some of the rules, some of the basic skills, how to set picks, how to pass, how to get open.
Sure, nearing 50, I’m sometimes the worst guy on the court still, but that’s just because I play with better guys. Some of them call me “the wily veteran” as a joke, but I take some pride in it. Not because I’m all that good, but because I’m so much better than I was.
you can learn a great deal about how to play any sport by watching the greats and learning from them. i was never the most athletic when i played any sport, i did learn that i could many times out think the opponent. after watching hours and hours of practice i learned about the parts of the game that often repeat during each contest. by observing others i was able to take mental note of what actions achieved the desired affect in different situations. i think this must be why you are refered to as the wily veteran....you out think them!!
Posted by: turner | April 21, 2006 1:45 PM | Permalink to Comment