To a simple observer sports are simply just a way for people to enjoy the hobbies that they enjoy, but for those who play the games, they are much more. They can be a fun activity among friends, or a fierce competition among hated rivals. They can be as meaningless as a passing innocuous thought, or as symbolic as life itself, with each experience presenting a new life lesson. I enjoy sports on both these front; whether it be a casual Sunday playing an inebriated game of beach volleyball, or sweating it out on the pitching mound locked in an epic battle in my amateur baseball league.  No matter what age, sports allow us an avenue to compete, and a place where we can still strive to do our best. It is symbolic to life, because on every field or court, there is a lesson to be learned about life around every corner, regardless of what skill level, age, race, sex, size, and walk of life you are. Relationships are bonded. Greatness is born. Confidence is acquired. Life is improved.  That is why I play.

- Steve McD, California, US