Euro 2016 TV Schedule (Canada TSN - Group Stage)

Here is the tentative list of TSN Schedule. For updates, click here. All times North America Pacific.

EURO 2016 SCHEDULE (NORTH AMERICA PACIFIC TIME)

(Picture Credit: thevpnguru.com)

Click here to see times in Asia-Pacific.

On Sportsmanship

In any hotly contested game, we must always learn to honour and respect our competitors. We honour them for helping to lift the quality of the game. We respect them to keep ourselves humble. Winning at any cost will lead to dishonouring the game, disrespecting the competition, and ultimately the destruction of sportsmanship. After all, we would rather see a good game between two really good teams, instead of one-sided affairs or unsporting bullies. Like some would say: "Win with style, Lose with style." The score may not favour us, but classiness will favour all.

(Picture Credit: cookie6)

Yes, it is important to win. However, do not let winning overwhelm us until we forget that underneath the game of sports, we are all the same. We are all human.


conrade

Honour Your Competitors

Yesterday was a mixture of emotions. As I watched the Canadian Women's Soccer Team lose 3-4 to Team USA, I felt sad to see the brave ladies crumble down crestfallen, heartbroken. After an amazing heartwinning performance, at the end of it all, they lost. Even after leading their opponents thrice, in the final seconds of extra time, they lost to an unfortunate goal. Having dominated the game at many angles, I can understand how many Canadians felt cheated by the questionable refereeing decisions that went against the Canadians. A heartwinning performance did not lead to a gracious response. Instead, I saw how the Canadian stars move from disappointment to anger at others. Not only have the players failed to lose graciously, they have missed out the opportunity to be role models for the rest of us, by making a positive gesture to honour their worthy opponents.

On how the USA came back three times, why blame the referee's decisions if your defense could have been better? On the delay of call infringement, why criticize the decisions that went against you when you very own goalkeeper could have remembered the rules of the tournament? Hey, you all are world class players, and world class players are expected to know the rules of the game by heart. Right? True champions never blame others. True champions win gracefully, or lose graciously. For all the positive things that the Canadian soccer team has done, I feel that they have let themselves down by being critical of the referee's decisions. What makes me sad is that they have failed to give credit where credit is due. The Americans stormed back not once by thrice. They held on for a solid 120 minutes and never gave up on seeking the winning goal. Wake up. Losing to a team that is ranked #1 in the world is no shame at all.

I rooted for Canada to win. I wanted them to win. I cheered them on. Honestly, I thought the game belonged to them. Until they allowed their emotions to get the better of them on the pitch, and outside the pitch. After the final whistle, even when the players felt they have been robbed, I think they had missed out a golden opportunity to honour their competitors.

Sports can bring out the best of the players. It can also bring out the worst. That is why it is important to remember what sportsmanship is all about. The founder of the modern Olympic Games, Pierre de Coubertin famously said:

"The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not winning but taking part; the essential thing in life is not conquering but fighting well."

Sadly, this is largely missing yesterday from the Canadian team.

A) The Ugly American

Having said that about the Canadian team, I think some of the American media, reporters, and athletes are no angels either. Take the much decorated swimmer, Michael Phelps for example. In an article, "Move Over, Michael Phelps. Missy Franklin Is Our New Sweetheart," Lesley Sebek Miller criticizes Phelps for his lack of charity after losing his race to his rival, Ryan Lochte in the 400m IM swimming race. Likewise, when the Chinese sensation, Ye Shiwen happened to swim one length at a faster time than Lochte, instead of honouring the achievement, they cried foul. The media and some in the American contingent begin to suspect doping on the part of Ye. Even after Ye had been cleared of any doping charges, there was no apology. No attempt to give credit. No desire to demonstrate sportsmanship. The ugly American image had tarnished not only the spirit of the Olympics, but the reputation of American teams.

Let me maintain that these individuals are the exceptions. There are good and gracious American athletes too. Missy Franklin is one of them.

B) Our Worthy Opponents

I wrote previously that there is no point in winning when one does not have a winning mentality. The eight persons disqualified from the women's doubles badminton events, were found guilty of playing to lose in order to jostle for a more favourable pairings in the later parts of the competition. The Badminton World Federation (BWF) took the initiative to disqualify them after the unsportsmanlike behaviour.

Another event that has caught my attention is the men's Badminton singles event. After Malaysia's Lee lost the game 2-1, many people were retweeting the ESPN commentator's words that compares the two men.

"Lee Chong Wei is such a great guy, but Lin Dan is a bit arrogant. Skills win you medals, but attitude wins hearts."

While I like the comment, I feel that it is a little unfair to call Lin Dan "a bit arrogant." Every one of us have our own way of celebrating our wins. How we do it, is purely an emotional matter. We cannot judge a person simply on the basis of one moment. What is wrong to celebrate? Lin Dan deserves to celebrate. Who are we to decide how he celebrates? For that matter, remember that while Lin Dan and Lee are huge rivals on the badminton courts, they are friends outside. My point, give credit to where credit is due. Both men have won. Lin Dan has won gold. Lee Chong Wei has won silver. Together, they have won respect for the game of Badminton. Lin Dan has won honours for his country. Chong Wei has won hearts and respect for Malaysia.

Fortunately, the men's singles event has won back some respect for the competition. In an epic final, Malaysia's Lee Chong Wei battled China's Lin Dan point for point for a solid 79 minutes in a three set gold medal game. Both players gave their all. Both players sweat it out. Both players brought the best out of each other. When the brave Malaysian lost by 2 points, he broke down and cried, bringing the whole country of Malaysia crying with him. The difference is this: those were tears of joy. Many Malaysians felt that even though Chong Wei did not win gold, he won the hearts of all Malaysians. The tribute here says it all.

Fan Club of Lee Chong Wei
(Credit: www.leechongwei.com)

That is not all. The fan club of China's Lin Dan gives this brilliantly written response here.

Translated, it reads:

"Thank you very much, Lee Chong Wei, Thank you for being such a noble and worthy opponent, and thank you for 10 years of company - without Lee Chong Wei's worthiness, there will not be any Lin Dan's worthiness; without Lee Chong Wei's persistence and perseverance, there will not be any progression for Lin Dan. Lee Chong Wei missed his first Gold Medal, but he didn't fail. We felt for his cries. [SHARED/RT] When we cheer for Lin Dan's victory, please also remember Lee Chong Wei. You both are the best."



That is very well put.

At the end, the spirit of the Olympics is really not about winning or losing. It is in putting in a winning mentality that inspires not only fellow sportsmen and sportswomen, but to show the rest of the world that anything is possible. Through guts, determination, and sportsmanship, we can break world records. The only way that we can do it is when we have good solid competitors.

• Who wants to watch a one-sided competition?
• Who wants to see one country sweeping all the medals?
• Who wants to see competitors hardly having to sweat it out in order to win?

The fact is this. Without competition, one will not be pushed to excel or to do better. Without worthy opponents, one cannot break world records or Olympic records. Without honouring our competitors, any win will be an embarrassment not just to the gold medalists but to the sport. 

May the Canadian womens' soccer team learn to accept defeat graciously. It is time to move on to a heartwinning performance again. Treat the bronze medal game as a championship game. For Badminton, may there be a time to see another epic badminton game again between Lin Dan and Chong Wei. The best is yet to be, as the best competition can only come from worthy opponents.

Honour your competitors, now. Give credit where credit is due. Acknowledge that you are not your best until you are pushed to do your best. Your winning is very much not a self-designed experiment.You never know when you need them to encourage you next time. World class competition needs not only world class quality and skills. It requires world class competitors. Honour your competitors, for when you honour them, every medal looks like gold. It is high time that we remind one another that the culture of "Winning is Everything" is dead wrong. Winning gracefully and losing graciously together is everything.

conrade

"Losing to Win" Is Not Worth It

I love badminton. I play badminton when I was young. I even represented my school once, although I didn't get past the second round. Behind every serve, every retrieval, and every smash, what makes the whole event competitive and fun is that we are all playing to win. It makes our training worthwhile. It makes our win more valuable. It makes us proud to have given our all, regardless of whether we win or lose.

The Olympics is a premier sports event. Just being able to participate as an Olympian is already an honour in itself. If one can stand on the podium, it is joy unspeakable.

Umpire giving the Chinese and Korean pairs a warning
(Credit: National Post)

Not this week. For this week, we see players throwing away their matches for the sake of "fixing" their best chances. Badminton as a competitive game has been turned into a farce. An embarrassment. A shame. At the London 2012 Summer Olympics currently going on, news are still settling in on a shameful conspiracy of match fixing. In one of the most controversial and embarrassing display of 'losing to win' in badminton, eight players were disqualified for unsportsmanlike behaviour. This is a bizarre demonstration of what teams are willing to do in order to jostle for a better match up, athletes are letting their heads move faster than their hearts. After an unfancied Danish pair defeated a top seeded team from China, another team of Chinese players start to strategize on how best to plan their games in such a way to allow their country to have two Chinese teams in the final instead of a possible semi-final match-up.

After all, everyone is playing for a medal. Why kill yourself by playing so hard and to meet your toughest opponent instead in the semi-final? It is true, that in many situations, the hardest game is not the final, but the games leading up to the final. Any thinking person will definitely prefer to face their toughest opponent in a match that, win or lose, will still win a medal. What remains is this question: Is it sportsmanship to try to win big games by losing small matches?

A) I Understand

I understand what the Chinese players, the Indonesian, and the Korean women's teams are doing. They want to make sure that they have a good shot at the medals. They are prepared to pay the price of losing shamefully in the preliminaries. I understand too, that athletes often have to preserve their best energies for their most important matches. What is the point of draining oneself flat the day before, and fail to give your best at the game of your life? I understand that players themselves do not like to lose. Just making a decision to lose is already detrimental to one's principle of sportsmanship. I also understand that the organizers of the format of the competition need to take some responsibility as well. Sports officials need to make sure that future arrangements will take away any temptation for players to lose-to-win. I support a direct knock-out format.

B) Why I Support the Disqualification

Although the disqualification of the four top pairs of badminton players has meant only the weaker players remain, I think it is the principle of sportsmanship and the spirit of the Olympics that need to be held higher than the gold medal. I say this for three reasons. Firstly, losing to win mentality is a disgrace to the sport. Imagine after training so many years of your life to prepare for the Olympics, you walk into the badminton courts to play like amateur kids? If for some reason, you are paired with a tougher opposition, that does not mean one plays any less hard. One needs to play hard and to play honest, regardless. The spirit of sportsmanship must trump any selfish desire for medal glory. Secondly, losing to win dishonours not just the Spirit of the Games, it dishonours your honourable opponent. Even if one plays in order to lose, the opponent will feel that he/she has not been given the chance to excel or to do his/her best. Ever tried to play chess on your computers? What if you try to cheat by undoing your moves every time you are disadvantaged? You can keep undoing your moves until you finally win. However, what does that do to your chess skills? How can you then honestly claim that your win is fair and square? You may get away by cheating the computer. In real life, when you play your opponent, the important spirit of community and brotherhood is not only to do your best, but to force your opponents to excel as well. Good performances that motivates others to perform well is worthy of all of our support. Thirdly, losing to win takes away the honour of an Olympian. I liken this to a form of indirect cheating. By strategizing in such a way to get weaker opponents in your draw on the way to the final, it looks to me more like sly manipulation rather than honest competition.

C) Winning is NOT Everything

The key underlying cultural theme that is prevalent, infrequently questioned, and often assumed without critical thinking. It is the mentality that espouses, "Winning is Everything."

Not really. On the contrary, winning at all costs is costly. The spirit of sportsmanship is not just to give your best, but by your actions, embolden others to compete at their best. For me, what is a more appropriate maxim is this: "A winning mentality is everything." A winning mentality aims to compete fairly. Losing to win is shamefully unfair. Unfair to the spirit of the Olympics. Unfair to your worthy opponents. Unfair to audiences all over the world.

Take the example of Derek Redmond at the 1992 Barcelona Summer Olympics. Midway through a 200m race, he developed a hamstring injury on his right leg. Falling to the ground, he realized that his dream for Olympic glory was over. That did not prevent him from the greater purpose: Completing the race. With his face grimacing in pain, he mustered up great determination, limped toward the finishing line. For Redmond, completing the race is more important than winning. (watch this inspiring video here).

 

True heroes do not just play to win. They finish the race. They do not lose to win. They win regardless of the final result. For winning or losing is secondary. Be the best person we are called to be is primary. Such a winning mentality wins something more precious than a gold medal. It brings honour to the sports. It gives great inspiration to all competitors. It brings glory to our Creator God who simply asks of this one thing: "Give your best. Let Me do the rest."

conrade

A Game of Hope

This video is an inspiring one. In November 2008, Faith Christian High School let their football cheering mechanism bring hope not just to the home team but the visiting team as well. It teaches us that when we can all make a difference by cheering for both the home as well as the visiting team. This is because when we cheer, we become agents of hope. Check out the video here.



conrade

Book - "How Soccer Explains the World"

Title: How Soccer Explains the World: An Unlikely Theory of Globalization
Author: Franklin Foer
Publisher: San Francisco: HarperCollins, 2004, (288 pages).

This is surprise find! Especially with the 2010 World Cup Soccer going on in South Africa right now, it could not have been a better time for me to read this book. Written by a football fan, Foer navigates the world through the eyes of soccer, and asserts that the culture of soccer transcends many places and people groups. He uses soccer to explain the gangster behavior, the pornography of sects, Jewish, Hooliganism, survival of the upper echelons of society, black carpathians, new oligarchs, Islam and ends with what I believe is the author's main interest: "American culture wars."

A) MAIN IDEA
Foer aims to look at globalization from the eye of the sport he loves, soccer. Soccer has more to do with a way of life rather than a type of sport. Through soccer, we learn to understand more of the cultures around the world, that gives the global sport a new identity of cultural analyst. The book is broadly divided into three parts. The first part talks about the failure of globalization to unite the world. The second part deals with economics from the perspective of soccer influencing understanding of cultures behind the economics. The third part is a way of defending 'old-fashioned nationalism' versus the 'return of tribalism.'

B) MYTHS DEBUNKED
Contrary to what the Left predicted, that globalization will destroy local cultures, soccer has helped strengthened loyalties. Instead of capitalism providing positive results, it has entrenched corruption.

C) HOW SOCCER EXPLAINS

• GANGSTERISM: "Deprived of traditional work and knocked off patriachal pedestals, these men desperately wanted to reassert their masculinity. Soccer violence gave them a rare opportunity to actually exert control." (in Serbia, 13-14)
• RELIGIOSITY & TRADITION: "It's easy to link support for a soccer club with religiosity. But in an important way, Rangers has actually replaced the Church of Scotland. It allows men like Findlay to join the tradition and institutions of their forefathers, to allay fears about abandoning history without having to embrace their forefathers' eschatology." (in Scotland, 56)
• JEWISH QUESTION: "Jewish teams cloak themselves in Jewish, not Hungarian or Austrian or German, nationalism, literally wearing their zionism on their sleeves and shirts. . . An entire movement of Jews believed that soccer, and sport more generally, would liberate them from the violence and tyranny of anti-Semitism." (in Europe, 68-9)
• SENTIMENTAL HOOLIGAN: as a reaction ". . against globalization. . , the McDonald's-smashing French farmer Jose Bove, and countless others: multinational capitalism strips local institutions of their localness, it homogenizes, destroys traditions, and deprives indigenous proletariats and peasants of the things they love most." (in England, 96)
• TOP HATS SURVIVAL: How soccer legends like Pele help revive falling political careers among the power mongers; "Despite the persistence of corruption, Brazil's mania for soccer has hardly abated; its natural soccer resources don't seem close to exhausted. It's too essentially a part of the national character." (in Brazil, 140)
• BLACK CARPATHIANS: "To many Ukrainians, their country still felt like a colony of Russia. . This despair played out in soccer too. Ukrainians imagined that they were once a great soccer natin. Now they needed to import Nigerians to become great again." (in Ukraine, 157)
• NEW OLIGARCHS: "There was also a populist brilliance to his use of soccer as a metaphor for society. It gave him a vocabulary that resonated with the lower middle class, the group that he wanted to cultivate as a political base." (in Italy, 185-6)
• BOURGEOIS NATIONALISM: Instead of soccer violence, "Barca redeems the game from these criticisms, by showing that fans can love a club and a country with passion and without turning into a thug or terrorist. . . . Put it more strongly, Barca doesn't just redeem the game from is critics; it redeems the concept of nationalism." (in Spain, 197-8)
• ISLAM's HOPE: "Iranians crave international soccer because the game links them to the advanced, capitalist, un-Islamic West. . . . The burgeoning youth population of Iran looked West and toward soccer for inspiration." (in Iran, 230, 232)
• AMERICAN CULTURE WARS: "Soccer's appeal lay in its opposition to the other popular sports. Soccer is the province of the working class." (USA, 237-8)

My Comments
In trying to show globalization from the eyes of soccer, I feel that the author may have become overly skewed about the role of soccer in interpreting the impact of globalization in the world. No doubt, soccer is a major influence in many parts of the world. Having said that, soccer only explains some, at least according to the selected interviews of various personalities in the countries represented. That provides a somewhat slant perspective. While Foer makes some good observations of certain impact, I feel that the content of the book fails to adequately answer the title of the book. At best, I tend to say the effects are peripheral, meaning that Foer's thesis fail to address core questions like the extent of influence, real statistics of soccer, and other variables.

That said, it is still a fresh way of thinking that will perhaps be improved with more examples from other countries mentined. What about Asia?

Rating: 2.5 stars of 5.

conrade

An Unfair World of Winning and Losing

In this crazy world, sometimes reality can be very cruel. In the game of life, winners are worshiped. Losers are scorned, spurned, and shipped out like unwanted trash.  Nowhere is this more evident than the world of sports where top sports clubs or teams change their managers or coaches the moment they fail to win the championship. We are almost one month away from the World's Most Popular Tournament, to be held in South Africa. The game of soccer. It has reaped millions of dollars for winners. It has also created a lengthy list of 'losers' who have been unceremoniously shipped out due to the failure to win enough glory for the club or country.

Soccer

The latest evidence of such an unfair world is in Europe. The one popularly referred to as the 'special one,' Jose Mourinho, has just led his club, Inter Milan to glory, winning Europe's top club competition called the UEFA Champions League 2010. Almost immediately, Mourinho openly expresses his wish to coach another top Spanish team, Real Madrid. Such a wish is an automatic count-down to the demise of the existing Real Madrid coach Manuel Pellegrini. After all, everybody like winners. Mourinho is a winner, having just won another Champions League victory. Pellegrini is a clear loser, who has not helped his club won a major trophy during his short 9-month tenure. He complains that he has not been given the 'backing' he needs to help the club succeed.

I see the highly popular English Premier League in the UK also being victimized by the 'winner' syndrome. In such a winner-takes-all scenario, there is very little room for trial and error. With so much money demanded of even the poorest club, only the richest and the meanest survive. What is more troubling is that the game of soccer at the EPL has become a money-talks-loudest game. It is no longer a game to promote the game of sports. It is a game where only the richest clubs who can afford to practically 'buy' whatever trophy they have with their money.

Hockey

Since coming to Canada, I have been intrigued by the Canadian infatuation over the game of ice-hockey. With so many nights of hockey telecast live on TV, it is only a matter of time, any newbie to hockey will take notice of this sports. For me, what is most fascinating is not the game itself, but the ongoing commentary, especially the discussion panel AFTER the game. No matter how well a team plays, when they fail to win, commentators will say the most negative things about them. Criticisms tend to follow a numerical scale as well.   The greater the number of goals lost, the greater the criticisms. On the other hand, all it takes is one winning goal, and the commentators will be full of cheer and praise for the winning team. From goaltenders to the most ineffective skater on the ice, reporters tend to say the most positive things about the winning team.

I shudder and shake my head when such things happen. It only tells me that the game of sports has deteriorated to the point where only winners mean something. Gone are the days of brave sportsmanship. Gone are the times where healthy competition is promoted. Gone are the moments of encouraging all to do their best.

Why must the world discriminate so much between winners and losers? If there are no other competitors, what is the meaning of winning? Why should winners by themselves get all the glory?

Perhaps, as viewers and consumers of sports events, we should learn to let our money do the talking. For that, I will refuse to sign on more sports channels. Maybe, once my current subscription is up for renewal, I might even think twice about dropping some.

Winning is important. However, when winning becomes the sole ambition, the only reason for playing,the meaning of sportsmanship is undermined. When that happens, nobody wins.

conrade

Honesty Costs Golfer the Championship

Will you do everything in order to win first prize? In sports, where prize money and public recognition is in hot demand, the temptation is to do everything, even anything in order to stay ahead of the pack. Today, I am encouraged to read about a golfer who conceded his victory to his competitor by honesty pointing out his faulty golf shot to officials who fail to see it. Brian Davis could have won first prize, but he realized it would have been based on a fault no one else but himself noticed. He took home the runner-up prize, to the bewilderment of the media and the public eye. Who would have done such a thing?

Life is more than simply winning the gold. It is one thing to win at all costs. It is another to win honestly and with integrity. If one wins based on unfair practice, the guilt remains throughout his life. If one honestly admits his own faults, he has personally overcome temptation to let integrity remain intact. He forfeited his chance for a first PGA title, but earned a lot more respect. Brian Davis may have lost the PGA 2010, but he has certainly won many fans. I am one of them.  From what I see, the true winner is Davis himself, and for the sport.

conrade

Reflections of Olympics in Vancouver 2010

These 2 weeks have been exhausting, exhilarating and for the most part, extraordinary. The Games began on a tragic note plus a number of embarrassing moments. Among them, the tragic death of Georgian Luger, Nodar Kumaritashvili, has cast a dark shadow over the Games, even before the official opening ceremony. Even the Opening ceremony has an embarrassing moment when one of the four hydraulics failed to lift up all the cauldrons for the Olympic light-up. There were hiccups here and there, from overwhelmed transport facilities to anti-Olympic protesters. Yet, the small and gradual small victories culminate in the sweetest victory of it all: Canada defeating the USA 3-2 in a dramatic finale of the ice-hockey gold medal game. Canadians across the country reserve the greatest celebration until the moment when Sidney Crosby scores the golden goal. It is an epic moment. Nothing is sweeter than an ice-hockey championship.

After a 24 hour breather, minus the emotions, I want to write down some of my reflections. Here goes.

Pre-Olympic Moments
As a host nation, it is usually expected that the host country wins some gold medals in any Olympic event. Unfortunately, Montreal and Calgary failed to deliver any gold winning athlete. Enough is enough, many say. In Vancouver, Canada will not be third time unlucky. Canada decides to come back with a vengeance. After hosting 2 previous Olympics without any golds won on home ground, the organizers spearheaded a controversial "Own The Podium" campaign and invested millions of dollars to ensure that Canada, in its third Olympic hosting attempt, will at last rake in gold on home soil. It is not just about winning gold. It is about the rise of national pride.

During the Olympics
A national confidence displayed beautifully each of the 17 nights through united singing of "O Canada!" It is moving to see people celebrating wildly, without any reservations. Regardless of ethnic differences, language difficulties or cultural uniqueness, every person on the streets share a common red and white on their bodies and their garments. It looks like the time has come for Canada to assert itself more confidently.

Frankly, Canadians were a little slow in embracing the Games. Some Vancouverites were rather skeptical, thanks to the influence of the anti-Olympic movement, who paraded their anti-government and anti-homeless social agenda. The turning point I believe was the violence and vandalism brought about by some hooligans from outside BC. The typical person in the street shifts from sympathy to disgust. Such behavior is grossly UN-Canadian. After that, not only did the protesters tone down their publicity, more of the public comes out to support the games, through party, not partisan agendas.

After the Games

1) The Media
CTV and the various members of the Olympic media consortium have done a great job. They did not tell people what to do, unlike some propaganda stations. They simply reported on the events and invite viewers in to come and join them. I like the way that the presenters interview the various athletes, their families and the typical happy face on the street. The Olympics will never have become such a big focus in the living room and at social gatherings without the TV and news stations. Indeed, for 2 full weeks, many of us were glued to the TV set.

The media has been mightily and effectively used to hype up drama and excitement to move the nation. The commercials are creatively done to mesh the product and services with the culture of the people. For example, the Coke commercial that rides on the passion of a hockey mad nation. Yet, for all its benefits, I am still somewhat concerned about how powerful the media has become in the lives of people.

My Take: When people becomes overly trusting of any media, what happens if the media comes under bad influence?  Even as we watch TV, we ought to remain vigilant and watchful over negative influences. This is especially so when hype is generated to the point that emotions overwhelm the rational mind. For this matter, I think the Coke advertisement that claims to 'show them whose game it is,' can become a liability instead. What if Canada lost yesterday's game to the US?

2) The Nature of Competitive Sports
Winning is something that many aims for. However, behind every winner belies years of hard work and many failures. Many of the gold medal athletes did not have it easy. Just research any of them, you will see that the agonies outweighs the joys. I keep reminding my kids that every single competitor who tried their best deserves our best applause.This ought to be the emphasis. Sadly, most of the media attention continues to be upon the gold medal athletes. In the world of fame and name, the Olympics despite all its honorable intent, attention still shines on the winners, and seldom on the rest.

My Take: Without the rest, there will be no best. Thus, every medalist must always remember that there is no room to boast of one's achievements. Without the support of country, family, friends and the opportunities to train, there will not even be a chance to participate. Participation in itself is already an honor. Whether one wins or loses, it is important to compete well, and fair. That said, I believe that even as we rejoice with the winners, may we also remember that everyone else, even the spectator ought to be motivated to do their best in whatever they do. This is the essence of true competition.

3) The People and the Party
For nearly every night, downtown Vancouver was alive and well. People are in a party mood all the time. They literally paint themselves and the whole town red. My wife said to me that 'people are so happy.' The Winter Olympic Games is a special once in four years event. Having it in our city makes it even more special. Department stores and various business welcome the world. The free attractions put up by the Olympic organizers are by themselves a good enough reason to hop on a bus to go downtown.

My Take: The way that people party themselves away is a nice scene to see. It is not often that we get to see people expressing freely and openly themselves. Canadians after all, are rather reserved compared to our neighbors South of the border. Is this a case of releasing some pent-up feelings about Canadian pride and patriotism? Or is it simply an opportunity to enjoy the moment while it lasts? Something tells me that it is both.

4) The Ability to Laugh at Ourselves
The Opening Ceremony was embarrassing, at least for Catriona Le May Doan. The cauldron malfunction meant that she was not able to light up the fourth flame during the ceremony. I think the organizers did well to tie up this 'loose end' at the closing ceremony with a hearty mine. I think this is a nice part about being Canadian, the ability to laugh at ourselves and in our laughing, provide a way of redemption.

[Photo Credit: ABCNews]

"The closing ceremony of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games has begun with the organizers poking fun at themselves. The lights dimmed and a mime appeared from a hole in the stage with two extension cords. He connected the cords, sparks flew, and suddenly the fourth arm of the cauldron rose from the floor. Then Canadian speed skater Catriona Le May Doan appeared and did what she couldn't do during the opening ceremony when the arm failed to rise from the floor at B.C. Place -- she lit the fourth arm. The entire cauldron came to life and the crowd erupted in cheers." (WindsorStar liveblog)

My Take: I must credit the organizers for this brilliant move in highlighting the imperfectness of human organizing (through the failed 4th hydraulic), and to make amends (through spirited humor). There is something about human nature. On the one hand, we like to see things done to perfection. Yet, on the other hand, we like to see things that mirror our imperfectness which keeps us humble. The Olympics gives us room to enjoy both the perfecting attempts, as well as the imperfect moments. Frankly, I find the ability to laugh at self more disarming, and more inviting.


5) Believe!
This theme is a winner. We may plan to achieve a certain goal. We may even train hard to win golds. However, without a deep seated belief, it is difficult. This is perhaps the most significant effect of the Games. It shows us that with believe, we can make the impossible possible, the unreachable reachable, and to bring the unimaginable home. The Ice Hocky gold medal game is but one example. We can think of all the possible emotions that could have happened if Sidney Crosby failed to score, or if Team USA shoots a goal past Luongo in overtime. All those remain possible scenarios then. However, the fact is that they did not happen. Team Canada won. Canadians believed. Team Canada delivered. Everybody won.

My Take: There are so many Olympic moments to appreciate and learn from. From the courage of Joannie Rochette, to Alexandre Bilodeau's famous 1st gold for Canada, to the beauty and grace of Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir. All of them are but a few golden moments to remember and to cherish. However, let us not forget that life must go on. Winners or not, all of us can continue to be winners as we believe. As Christians, we have even better reasons to believe. If the Olympic flame is a glimpse of hope in this world. let us maintain our eyes on the Hope of the World, of the Son of God will is the Light of the World.

conrade

The Olympic Spirit

The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games end this Sunday 28th February 2010. In terms of gold medals, this third attempt is the best ever by a Canadian city. Montreal (Summer 1976) and Calgary (Winter 1988). So far, the host country Canada has raked in 7 golds, and more are expected to come. Of course, for a die-hard hockey fan, none of these really matter if Canada fails to bring in a gold in Ice-Hockey. In fact, many are already preparing for the gold medal game this coming Sunday noon. Some churches have even prepared large screens for their members and friends to capture the historic occasion. Even though Canada is not officially in the gold medal game yet, anyone walking in downtown Vancouver is confident that Canada will be there. Having swept past Russia 7-3 last night, Canadians all over are preparing and hungry for a rematch between Canada and the USA. After the surprise upset last week where Canada lost 5-3 to the USA, this time, Team Canada will be ready.

The Olympic Spirit

This is one Olympic moment to remember. It is a moment in which we cherish our beloved hometown heroes. It is a moment where we marvel at history being made. It is a moment in which we experience the ecstasy of human achievement. In a competition that is highly contested and sometimes results disputed, everyone plays to win. Even though some are there for the experience, the fact is that, to be an Olympian is already an accomplishment in itself. What exactly is an Olympian? What exactly is the Olympic Spirit?

Baron Pierre de Coubertin has been credited as the founder of the modern version of the Olympic Games. His famous words ring true to this day. With regards to the Olympic Spirit, he says:

"It is not about winning but taking part, not conquering but fighting well."

This is important. In a winner-takes-it-all world, sometimes, we can allow our infatuation with medals and results overwhelm us to the point that we miss out the 'participation' aspect. There has been many cases where athletes behave in an unsportsmanlike manner. Take the victory of Canada's Alexandre Bilodeau for example. After winning the first gold medal for Canada, others grumbled about his win. One Australian daily reported that the silver medalist, Begg-Smith representing Australia should have won. Geoff Lipshut was quoted as saying:

"My own opinion is that probably Alex is not capable of a 4.8 or a 4.9 (on his turns) ... because 5 is a perfect score." (link)

Is this a case of sour grapes? Probably, it is a spur of the moment comment as a result of heightened emotions. I believe that the Australian officials will take a more reasonable stance once the results sink in.

True Competitor

Personally, I believe that sportsmanship is a mark of a true competitor. Whether one wins or loses, one should be proud of having been part of the sports to spur one another on toward achieving their best. A healthy competition is only when all athletes give of their best. It makes it worthwhile. It motivates each athlete to compete and fight well. It encourages the public to see that dreams can come true. I like what the Canadian skier, Jennifer Heil says about her silver medal. She said:

"I really don't feel like I lost gold, I really feel like I won silver." (link)

While she may have felt let down by her failure to win gold, I think this should be the attitude of all competitors. The joy is in participation. The reward is in knowing that one has tried the best. If there is a medal won, great. If there is no medal, give thanks for the privilege of being able to compete in the first place.

More Than Gold Within Us
Truly, a thankful heart goes a long way. As a Christian, I believe that this is where Christian athletes can shine for God. With a thankful heart, be grateful for the privilege to compete. For the Christian, if winning is important, there is something else that is 'more than gold.' In fact, this is precisely why a group of Vancouver churches have banded together under the umbrella, "More Than Gold," to remind all of us, that winning is not the end of it all. It is competing for something that is more than gold.

We may not know the extent of the influence of More Than Gold. However, I must say that the words 'More Than Gold' (MTG) captures the Olympic Spirit in more ways than one. It is helpful to contrast "Just Gold" vs "More Than Gold."

Firstly, there can only be one gold medal winner. In MTG, we are all winners in the name of Christ. Secondly, in the medal race, some people use all kinds of ways to win. Some use cheating, like drugs. In MTG, there is no need to do any cheating. One seeks to give more than to receive. Thirdly, a 'Just-Gold' mindset tempts one to try to win at all costs. A MTG mindset reminds us that winning is just not the only thing in life. Whether one wins or loses, one can be proud of the fact that they have tried. Finally, in the MTG website, there are many different athletes whose testimonies reflect a common faith in Jesus. They come from diverse ethnicity, different nationalities and various other backgrounds. They may compete under the flag of their respective countries. However, all of them know that something else is at stake: their witness for Christ. Their stories can be found under the "Beyond the Ultimate" website. Some of their quotes are worth repeating here. Reading them warms my heart. I pray that you experience the same too.

Quotes from Olympians who are Christians:

• "The way that I conduct myself could be seen around the world. In the heat of competitions, emotions run high. It can be easy to lose tempers, get mad, or argue with officials or opponents. But the person that keeps Christ as a priority throughout the competition seems to be the winner no matter what the score is in the end. A great Christian can remain calm in pressure situations, upbeat in the face of defeat, and even content with not winning. It’s important to be consistently reminded that winning and losing are not the most important things in life. The bigger picture is serving God the right way. I pray that I will always compete as a man with a strong apparent faith." (Curt Tomasevicz, Bobsled, USA)
  
• “Having Jesus in my life makes a big difference. Even if you fail, God can make the best of it. He stands behind you and carries you through the difficult times. I don’t know how I would survive without God, knowing that whatever I do in competition is good enough and doesn’t affect what God thinks of me. To get to the top in the world of sports there is so much pressure. People may think you have everything in life but I have learned that knowing Jesus and being loved by Him is the only thing that can really satisfy me.” (Ursula Bruhin, Snow Boarding, Switzerland)
  
• "My courage comes from my faith, and I don’t know any other way of thinking about it. It’s engrained in me and I can rely on God and know that He has a plan for me and things are in His control, not mine. That’s where my courage comes from." (Lyndon Rush, Driver in Bobsled, Canada)
  
• “There are great pressures – having spent so many years of effort just to get there. The expectations of your team and country and your own expectations, the coach is under pressure and passes that pressure on to athlete. If your race does not go well everything seems to collapse and you don’t know how to deal with it. As a Christian if I knew I had done all the preparation I could then I was able just to leave the rest to God.” (Katya Antonuk, Cross Country, Russia)
  
• "Whether the suffering is large or small, many people believe they will feel joy only after their circumstances get better. Actually, it’s the other way around. Making time and choosing God’s joy when your circumstances are at their worst gives you the energy to face those difficulties and truly effect change. The secret is to allow God to continually clear out the old cobwebs and make room for new joy in your life." (Bonnie StJohn, Paralympic, USA)

Sob. Sob. I think these are true Olympians in the Lord. One more thing, as light of the world and salt of the earth, how are we training for the spiritual Olympics?

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." (2 Tim 4:7)

May we be true Olympians in the Lord, not just in name but in the heart. All of us can be.

conrade

My Top 10 Vancouver 2010 Olympic Videos

They cannot be avoided. Each time I turn on the news, everyone seem to be talking about it. The Olympics are coming to Vancouver BC, Canada. Woo-Hoo!

I am an Olympic fan. After all these years of watching the Olympics on TV, this year, the Olympics are coming to my city! I list the videos below in no particular order. They are all good, that's why they're my favourites. For the fun of it, I thought I can list down some of them, so that I do not have to search for it next time. If the embedded videos do not show up in your browser, just click the title.



(1) "I Believe" Music Video [updated link HD quality HERE!]

This is a nice video, accompanied by a hauntingly beautiful voice of Nikki Yanofsky. The lyrics may not be as great. However, put together the musical rendition and the touching images, this is a winner!

(2) The Wonder-Bread (Commercial by Wonder-Bread)

Children is always fascinating. This video is brilliant for being able to remind us to have fun even in competition. Winning is important, but it is not everything in life.

(3) "You Gotta Be Here" BC Promotional (HelloBC)

This video is impressive for the sheer picturesque images of British Columbia. It makes me proud to be living in BC.

(4) Vancouver 2010 Mascot - Mukmuk

This is delightful. A reminder that of the oft forgotten first nations natives in BC. 'Mukmuk' is derived from the first nations trading language.

(5) "Do You Believe?" (CTV commercial)

This video is wonderful as it brings together the city of Vancouver to welcome the world. It is a heartwarming image that we can all have something in common to believe in.

(6) "All Together Now" - Animated (IOC publicity)

This animated video shows us the meaning of the Olympics. That while everyone competes to win gold, it tells us that unity is the goal.

(7) "One Dream" Music Video (sung by Sarah McLachlan)

Sarah McLachlan's voice is powerful. This rendition is a good companion to Nikki Yanofsky. Personally, I think the lyrics are stronger than "I Believe."


(8) "Let the Games Begin" (narrated by Donald Sutherland)

As the euphoria continues, the "Do You Believe" campaign is certainly becoming such a catchword all over Vancouver that some people gets sick of it. I must say, CTV and others are doing a very effective way to inculcate Olympics awareness. I appreciate the firm and calm voice of Donald Sutherland, that gently peels away a hype-like feeling that usually comes with publicity commercials.


(9) Olympic Pins (CTV commercial)

I include this not because of the video, but for the last momentary question posed by kids: "Do you believe?" For me, that sticks in my head.


(10) "O Canada!" (McDonalds)

This video begins slow. However, be patient and watch the momentum builds up. It's good. It is certainly an uplifting one. Even if Canada does not win gold in any sports, they can win gold in cheering for their athletes. Go! Canada! Go!

conrade

Something for the Canucks to Chew on

So, the Canucks have lost 3 games in the row this opening season of the NHL. Perhaps Luongo is still trying to find his game. Perhaps the competition has been lucky. Perhaps, the stars are waiting to be aligned for the Vancouver team. Perhaps, every player has to raise their level of play, from Luongo to Raycroft, from Bieksa to Edler, from Kesler to Johnson, from the Sedins to Burrows. Perhaps, only perhaps, this speech by a 4-year old is what it takes to lift up the spirits of our Vancouver Canucks.



ks

Football Spirituality

Introduction - Wonderful World of Sports
Sports is one of the biggest past-times in the West, probably in large parts of the world. The highest advertising revenue generated is arguably the SuperBowl, where a 60 sec slot can cost a whopping $6 million dollars. Gambling revenues skyrocket when hot teams clash. Typically, sports cable channels charge considerably more money than regular news, documentaries, family and even movie channels. 'Football' in America refers to a ball that looks like a rugby ball. Outside North America, the football title belongs to soccer. The upside of sports is the gathering of friends and family to cheer their favorite teams. The downside is the aftermath of any emotionally charged game. When the stakes are high, it can be difficult to distinguish the hype from reality. Our feelings rise and fall according to what happens in the football pitch.

I remember in the 70s in Singapore, where football is regularly held at the National Stadium. There was the famous Kallang Roar, where more than 65000 fans will do the wave, scream their lungs out and shout their voices sore for the national football team. Emotions run high throughout the game. Enthusiasm manifests itself via long snake-like queues for tickets. High expectations fill the air as people patiently wait for the start of the game. On game day, irritated fans jaunt or hurl abuses at the referee's decisions. Others trumpet their support for their favourite team while many ride the rollercoaster of emotions. After the game, results show in the faces and body language of people streaming out of the stadium. You can easily tell which team won or lost simply by looking at the facial expression of the supporters. You know them by the jerseys they wear or the tattoos they smear on their faces. It is nice to see one's winning team overcome the opponent. It is depressing when one's team is defeated. Gamblers have even more at stake. Not only do they cheer for their teams, the results determine the size of their winnings or the magnitude of their loss. With the coming June 2010 World Cup soccer tournament, we will soon see another round of fanaticism over football. Undisputably the world's most popular sports, for one month, next year, billions will be glued to the high quality soccer matches with special attention on top teams from Europe, South America and Africa. Even more billions will be poured into industries benefiting from the game. The more popular the game, the higher the stakes. The higher the expectations, the higher the probabilities of violence. In certain cases, it is not simply supporting one's favorite team. It has to do with pride and reputation. Some winners-take-all scenario gives very little room for mistakes. People have known to commit suicide when their team lose a match. Hooligans roam the streets when they felt the result was unjust. Rival fans even create their own warzones and the unsuspecting supporter of an opposing team can be clobbered badly if found in the wrong neighborhood.

I find sports particularly fascinating for at least two reasons. It can bring out the worst in us. It can also draw out the best we have.

Brief Recollection of My Footballing Journey
I fell in love with football at first sight. In school, even stones and pebbles can be cheap footballs. Recess time and after school hours mean one thing: Let's play football! At one time, my team was planning our own jersey designs, name as well as picking out our opponents one by one. Our weekly pocket money will be poured into soccer weeklies, stadium tickets as well as buying the best soccer ball our measly budgets allow. I watch football at home. I watch football from the stands. I watch soccer everytime I had the chance. I pray football when my team needs a last minute winner. I breathe football. I literally eat football, (like having a football designed cake for my birthday). Football is like a religion. Even today, I can feel my heart rise and fall, proportional to the fortunes of the teams I support.

Lately, I have been reflecting upon this crazy obsession. Is there a sinister agenda behind the powerful forces that lurks behind the most intense games? Are we victims of a conspiracy that surrounds profits and commercialism? Is footballing a form of escapism for many, away from the frustrations and disappointments in life? Why are people so easily swayed by media hype and results. In a result-driven world, people cast out the virtues of sportsmanship preferring their team to win at all cost. For the ardent supporter, anything other than a win is unacceptable.  For me, there are some games that I particularly dislike:

Games I dislike

• where both teams played horribly;
• boring games where neither teams want to score, or when they play half-heartedly;
• where I have no interest in the teams played or what the result mean;
• where my favourite team failed to play their best;
• unsporting behavior;
• show-off games;
• totally lopsided games where superstars run rings around weaker players;
• Fighting both on and off the pitch;
• when the deserving team lost.

Such situations can wreak havoc to any person's cool and calm composure. It can unleash the wolf in us. Left unchecked, it can be deadly. An Indian friend of mine once shared with me, that there are 2 situations where it is absolutely critical for electricity to be 100% available for the public. The first is during elections. The second is during major sports games, especially cricket games between India and Pakistan. For the latter, if there is a power failure in the middle of an important game, the result will be horrendous. Villagers will spring out in utter uncontrollable anger. Riots can ravage many parts of the country. Violence is no stranger to the land of Britain. Just last week, fans supporting Millwall and West Ham pit their fists against each other in a Carling Cup tie. (link ) Deaths can also happen without a fight, like when 96 Liverpool fans were crushed to death in the infamous Hillsborough Tragedy in 15 Apr 1989. A Columbian goalkeeper was reported to have been shot to death by a football fanatic when he returned home, after scoring an own goal in the game against the US. Sadly, the most beautiful sport in the world also retains a reputation for incubating an atmosphere of highly charged tempers, leading to brutality and fatality. People do stupid things when emotions rage supreme. A simple game of sports that stem from a desire for healthy competition and sportsmanlike behavior has been marred by scams, scars and scandals. Shame indeed! Join me to reflect together about sports. These are some of the questions I ask myself.

• Why should I be so worked up over a football game?
• Why must my worship on Sundays be influenced by the result of a football game?
• Why should I subject my family to unhealthy tensions;
• Why must my best/worst behavior be tied to a football?

A Spirituality of Football
May the best team win. May the game be played, lost or won, fair and square. This is a good starting point to begin learning about any spirituality of sports.

"Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor's crown unless he competes according to the rules." (2 Tim 2:5)

Rules are there to guide us in our journey of life. We may not like it, but it is necessary to maintain order and give some legitimacy of the game being played. Unless one competes according to the rules, there will be no fair game. I like the recent practice where if one player is injured and falls on the ground, the game is halted simply by having the person possessing the ball kick it out of play. After the injured player is properly attended to, the grateful team kicks the ball back to the opponent. One of my favourite scenes is from a former West Ham player, Paolo Di Canio, who gave up a chance to score when the opposing goalkeeper was down injured (link). Suddenly, the high tensions from both sides that were flowing in opposite lanes, merge into a common stream of plain, simple human kindness and gratitude. Even the opposing players acknowledged the highly sportsmanlike gesture. Such scenes ought to be highlighted more often, even if they are few and far between in this highly commercialized game of football. Let me add a few points to my change of heart surrounding the spirituality of a football supporter. For Christians who are also sports lovers, I feel that we need to tackle the dragon of unruly passion. We need to submit our fervor to be examined under the light of God's grace and mercy.

Games I Enjoy

• when my team wins when they play well;
• when my team plays well regardless of the outcome;
• When there is a comeback performance to reverse the scoreline;
• when the better team wins in a gracious manner;
• when both teams play their best and acknowledge the better team on and off the pitch;
• when fans cheer more and jeer others less.

Enjoy a good game. Cherish a heartwarming match. On the pitch, push for quality play. Encourage sporting behavior. Cheer not only for our own team, but recognize good play by opponents where appropriate. I would rather recognize a good effort by an opposing team, than to jeer them merely because they wear a different jersey. Let's call a spade a spade. When a favorite team plays badly, they deserve to be reprimanded. Time wasting efforts, childish arguments with referees, deceptive diving in order to steal a penalty are all stupid acts that should not be condoned. Supporting our favourite team cannot be the only thing we do. We can participate in the game by being good supporters, not only for the team, but for the good game of sports. Here is my ABC in the spirituality of football.

A - Applaud good plays

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves." (Philippians 2:3)

Considering others better than ourselves is easily demonstrated by giving credit to whom credit is due. If the opposing goalkeeper makes an excellent save, clap your hands, for both goalkeeper and players involved in the buildup.

B - Boo Dirty Tactics

"The LORD abhors dishonest scales, but accurate weights are his delight." (Proverbs 11:1)

Regardless of who executes the dirty tactics, we should all be ready to disapprove of them in the strongest possible manner. If appropriate, register a protest. Write to the press. Comment on bulletin boards. Unsporting behavior is like dishonest scales, which tries to stay in front of the pack by cheating. Detest such things.

C - Cheer Sporting Acts

Sometimes, we may witness little acts of graciousness on the pitch. Courtesy and respect for one another must be encouraged. I am personally touched whenever players stand together for the common good of the game. Like keeping a moment of silence when a team honors a prized player for his contributions, or to respect a legendary leader, a coach, even a faithful fan.

"Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." (Col 4:6)

We are witnesses for Christ both inside and outside the church walls, both during and after the football game. We do not simply forget our faith when we wear our sports hat. We wear the symbol of Christ through good and Christlike behavior. What better way than to affirm good respectable behavior whenever possible. It never hurts to remind one another that being good human people is far better than winning a game. Winning a game may decide this year's championship. Encouraging good behavior brings better dividends in forming better friendship.

Applaud good plays. Boo dirty tactics. Cheer sporting acts. This is my ABC of Football Spirituality. Delight in sportsmanlike attitudes. Enjoy the game. There is no need to fight and quarrel. One game does not make anyone an idiot, or shame anybody's name forever. There is always a next game, or next season, or next year. Don't fall into the devil's trap of fighting innocent people, just for the sake of a game. The game is important, but being human in God's image is far more important. Know the difference.

As fans, let us play our part. As Christians, let the testimony of Christ rule in our hearts, that even in a simple game of football, God's spirit of grace be reflected in sportsmanship. Let the game stay as games. Do not be silly to let games dictate our human relationships. After all, Christ died for all, fans, players, our team as well as our worthy opponents.

ks

When Winning Becomes a Form of Losing

Recently, a basketball game between two small Christian private girls' schools gained national attention in the US. The winning school, Covenant School of Dallas is seeking to nullify its 100-0 win over Dallas Academy. Covenant has gone beyond this step to sack their basketball team coach and issue an apology to Dallas Academy for the unsportsmanlike behaviour displayed during the infamous game. The school published an official apology on its website, and the statement below is notable.

This clearly does not reflect a Christ-like and honorable approach to competition. We humbly apologize for our actions and seek the forgiveness of Dallas Academy, TAPPS and our community. The school and its representatives in no way support or condone the running up of a score against any team in any sport for any reason.

During the game, the girls from Covenant apparently went beyond the purpose of winning and let the game become one of humiliation and embarassment to their opponents instead. On top of that, Dallas Academy is no ordinary school. They specifically open their doors to students with learning disabilities. Hence, given the circumstances, any basketball game with them ought to be tempered with generous mercy and grace, rather than furious competitive behaviour that not only shame the opponent but embarasses the school they represent. It is like trying to continue boxing even when the opponent is down. Take soccer for example. Frequently, when one of the opposing team members are lying flat out on the field, players of either team will kick the ball out of play so that the injured player can be cared for.

Sometimes I feel that society in general, from schools to competitive sports have tend to over-emphasize performance and competition to the detriment of learning and compassion. The ethics of winning needs to be taught and inculcated into young minds. As one trains to be a competent sportsman, it is equally important to practice compassion and mercy. After-all, winning is not everything, but everything needs winning grace. Human dignity must be upheld whether one is on the winning or losing team. In the example of Covenant, I applaud the school leadership for taking the initiative to seek forgiveness and use this as an example that should not be repeated. As for Dallas Academy, by losing this embarassing game, they were rewarded with an invitation to watch the Dallas Mavericks from his suite! Amazing.

"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy." (Matt 5:7)

ks

"Hockey Night in Canada" Theme Song

This is the original Hockey Night in Canada theme song, reputed to be Canada's 2nd national anthem. As hockey is virtually a religion in Canada, many people have been annoyed that CBC, Canada's national broadcaster have refused to continue paying for the rights to use this anthem, written by Dolores Claman in 1968. For more than 40 years, Canadians have listened to and enjoyed this anthem. Fortunately, TSN/CTV have bought the rights to the anthem and the anthem will still be played at their channels. That's a winner. Personally, I think the two CBC anthem finalists do not come close at all to this classic. The first, 'Canadian Gold' sounds a little too similar to the original at some point. The second, 'Sticks to the Ice' starts a little too slow though it picks up momentum in the middle and has a better ending. Unfortunately, both misses the consistent built up of what hockey actually means: Accuracy, consistency, speed and sheer pride to be wearing that hockey gear, or simply being a hockey fan. I think CBC has made a mistake. A big one.

Interestingly, a son of my professor at Regent College have sent in an entry. It was not selected. Anyway, in 'American-Idol' style, the number of finalists have been reduced to two, and the winner will be based on the highest number of votes. Check out the links below to hear it. Come this Saturday, the new anthem will be launched. For fun, I voted #1, which I feel is the better of the two, though not quite the class of the original Claman's version.

1) Anthem #1 (Canadian Gold)
2) Anthem #2 (Sticks to the Ice)

Spiritual Olympics

Nothing is for Free

Those of us who have seen the Beijing Olympics 2008 opening ceremony on the 8th of August would have been wowed by the spectacular display of Chinese pride, Li Ning’s sensational flight to light the Olympic torch and the pompous pyrotechnics all around. Reported to cost more than US100 million dollars, this single event drew in more than a billion viewers worldwide. The whole event was directed by the famous filmmaker, Zhang Yimou. No expenses were spared to put China on display for the world to see, that the middle kingdom has come of age. Even the date was deemed auspicious. The Games began on the 8th of August, 2008 at exactly 8pm.

On a smaller scale, the Olympians have been known to invest huge thousands of dollars and hundreds of hours into their preparation for the games. In an article, “What price glory?”, two athletes were compared side by side with one thing in common: Their sacrifice to get to compete for the gold medal.

“The bills for coaching, training facilities, tournaments and other expenses easily add up to tens of thousands a year. For young American athletes, that financial burden falls squarely on their parents; for Chinese youth, the government picks up the tab - if they're good enough.

Either way, the Craig and Luo families have learned it takes gold to make gold. And both have sacrificed much along the way to make their daughters' Olympic dreams possible. To get to a similar place, though, they've taken very different journeys.”

Nothing is for free. Sometimes, we watch the Olympics on TV, and we envy the fame and glory that the winners of the respective events get to receive at the medal award ceremony. That one moment of glory disguises the tremendous sacrifices put in by the athletes, their families, friends, sponsors and many supporters. We can also forget that for every one medal winner, there are many others who have paid the price for competing in the event, and went home without winning anything. Many vie for the gold, but only one gets it. Many seek the glory but only the best and the fittest receives it. How unfair can it be for the hardworking, the multi-talented young ones, to be deemed ‘not good enough’ for the grand prize?

The apostle Paul is one who is most aware of the cost of competing to win.

You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier. Also if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not win the prize unless he competes according to the rules. (2 Tim 2:1-5)

The Christian is compared to as a soldier and also as an athlete. The common themes for both soldier and athlete are the components of FED (Focus, Endurance & Discipline). The ‘prize’ or the ‘crown’ referred to in verse 5 is referred either to the wreath of victory or the prize given out to the champions during the Greek games in those days. The origin of the Olympics is from Greece, so this verse in 2 Timothy holds a special meaning for Olympians, especially those who are Christians. Do we need to participate officially at the Games in order to compete? No. There is a long running spiritual marathon that Christian believers have been called to run. Like the athletes we see on TV, Christians are called to invest heavily in their spiritual walk. It is not necessarily always money, though monetary terms are considered a common quantifiable. Some of us will pay lots of money for training and education to equip others. Some will spend lots of hours to keep relationships warm and healthy. Yet, some will venture into lands far away to reach out to various rural people groups needing to hear the gospel. For every single one of them, the truth is that the spiritual race demands hard work, faithful endurance and to obey the rules of the competition. The rules are enshrined in the Word of God, like the Ten Commandments, the Sermon on the Mount and many others in the Bible. In the Spirit of the teachings of Christ, we compete in the world stage by observing the rules of the game. No cheating. No drugs. No corruption. No devious forms of cheating or breaking the rules. No dishonesty. These are the rules. What good will there be for one to win the world, using dishonest means? It will soon be found out, and the net result is shame not only for oneself but the family as well. Look at Marion Jones (took drugs to win 5 medals at the 2000 Olympics) and Ben Johnson (took drugs to win the 100m dash at the 1998 Olympics). They brought not only humiliation to themselves but embarrass the countries they represent. It is one thing to win the gold medal. It is yet another to win it in fairness and with integrity. Not all of us are called to win the games at the Olympics. Not all of us will get to stand at the podium to receive the medal. Yet, all of us are called to run the race of our lives, in integrity, in truth and in love.

Nothing is for free. It will cost us something, and for some, it will cost us everything we have. The key to willingness to give it all up is not simply winning the prize. It is not even the expectation of getting the results according to the amount of investment we put in, for some will inevitably fail to reap the required results. For the Christian, it is essentially the faithfulness to endure all hardship in order to glorify God. Love is the fuel that will sustain the journey. Love is the compass to focus our drive for excellence. Let love provide the faithfulness needed to stick to our stated paths. Let love form the discipline for us being a good soldier or an athlete. While nothing is for free, all things can be FREELY given. That is what love is all about. Love is not love until it is freely given away. In Christ, we see the greatest love ever known.

My readers, compete aggressively with a prize-driven mentality and a God-led integrity. Run earnestly and be willing to pay the price to get a chance to run the race. You may not win every earthly battle or competition before you. You may not even come close to qualify for the finals. However, it isn’t finished until it is finished. It will not end until the kingdom of God fully appears in all its glory. Yet, there is an interesting twist about running and winning the race. This is best demonstrated by telling the story of love, which can also be referenced here.

“A few years ago at the Seattle Special Olympics, nine contestants, all physically or mentally disabled, assembled at the starting line for the 100 yard dash. At the gun, they all started out, not exactly in a dash, but with a relish to run the race to the finish and win.

All, that is, except one boy who stumbled on the asphalt, tumbled over a couple of times and began to cry. The other eight heard the boy. They slowed down and looked back. They all turned around and went back. Every one of them! One girl with Down's Syndrome bent down and kissed him and said,"This will make it better."

All nine linked arms and walked across the finish line together. Everyone in the stadium stood, and the cheering went on for several minutes.

People who were there are still telling the story. Why? Because deep down we know one thing. What matters most in this life is more than winning for ourselves. What truly matters in this life is helping others win, even if it means slowing down and changing our course.”

As we compete to win, remember that whether we win or we lose, it is love that makes everything meaningful.

ks

Another Fairplay Video

As a follow-up to my earlier sportsmanship post, here is another amazing example from the Netherlands. Following a sporting stoppage gesture from the opponents, Ajax was supposed to return ball possession to team RKC Waalwijk. However, the return kick resulted in a goal! The restitution was eventually made when Ajax allowed a free goal in exchange to even things out. Amusing to see the confusion on the players' faces.

Sportsmanship!

We have heard many cases of bad behaviour or lousy sportsmanship. However, it does take a few instances of good sporting behaviour to bring pride to the human spirit in fair play. Here are two examples that warms the heart.

(1) Leicester City vs Nottingham Forest (Carling Cup Tie)
Leicester City (18 Sep 2007) sportingly allowed Nottingham Forest a free goal in appreciation for their willingness to abandon the previous game (Forest were leading 1-0) so that they can attend to a Leicester player who suffered a heart failure. Technically, Forest do not need to abandon the previous game. Moreover, in a replay, the score will be reset to 0-0. Hence in appreciation to Forest's willingness, Leicester granted them a free goal, informing them only 20 minutes before the game! Read more about it here and here.


(2) West Ham vs Everton (Premier League)
Paolo Di Canio (Dec 2000), upon seeing the opponent's goalkeeper down and injured, decided to catch the ball with his hands despite a golden scoring opportunity to level his team. He received a fair-play award for his sporting gesture.

Cheers to good sportsmanship.

ks

Canucks Tie the Series

Canucks won the second game tonight beating the Anaheim Ducks 2-1 in OT, tying the best-of-seven series 1-1, in a strange see-saw performance, classic hockey's version of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. It's tough to be a faithful fan, joyous in victory, but utterly embarrassed in defeat. For now, all Canucks fans will savour the moment. Yippee!

Playoffs are about mind over matter. If you don’t mind then it doesn’t matter, because excuses won’t cut it.

“That’s the easy way out,” said Canucks centre Brendan Morrison. “We could sit here and say we’re missing two of our better D-men [Sami Salo, Kevin Bieksa]. But to be honest with you, I haven’t heard that from one guy — not even a mention of it — even with the lineup we’re dressing now.

“We believe we can win.”(Vancouver Province, April 26th, 2007)

Very true. A tough mind. That's what is necessary to get the edge.

Other Links:
1) Official Canucks web site
2) Canucks Central
3) Canucks Hockey

Game 7 - Seventh Heaven

Pictures speak a thousand words.

Whole of Vancouver came alive. Car horns, shouts of joy, flags waving and many smiling faces and of course empty wallets due to the celebrative mood. Mmmm. Even my wife and kids watched the game last night. More curiosity than anything, as every goal produced a neighbourhood orchestrated bellow.

Go Canucks Go!

ks