Real role models in short supply

The May 4 Associated Press article about NBA Most Valuable Player Kevin Garnett ended with Kevin McHale’s statement about playing with passion, hard work and self-discipline, qualities all too often short-changed in our education system and society.

Other articles defined both Ichiro Suzuki and Pat Tillman as examples of the results of having the same qualities. No references were made to race, lack of opportunity or any other “excuse” for not doing the best you can at whatever you do.

It is evident each also has the most necessary quality – personal responsibility for his own actions. Tillman exemplifies placing service above economic benefit, knowing full well the risks involved.

Every coach in every sport should strive to instill these qualities in each individual they are teaching, even when performance of their team may be lessened.

It’s unfortunate these stories aren’t front-page news. Winning and financial rewards aren’t everything.

William H. Allison

Medical Lake