SPORTS July 5, 2004 Issue

The catch that didn't get away

By Peter Tonge

In the Northern Hemisphere , summer is in full swing, and so are the world's two major bat–on–ball games—cricket and baseball. They are being enjoyed at venues ranging from high–tech stadiums to sandlots and village greens.

In England, where the touring New Zealand cricketers have just played a "test" (international) series against their hosts, my three–year–old granddaughter—with strong maternal ties to the United States—will, at the least provocation, belt out a rendition of "Take Me Out to the Ball Game."

No matter. While less recognized on the English side of the "Pond," that song could apply to cricket, because the two games are closely related. The need for players to show agility, dexterity, coordination, strength, grace, and so on, is certainly common to both—and exists in most sports. And while such qualities may generally be viewed as physical in nature, I see them as divine in origin. Before they can be expressed athletically, they have to be embraced mentally. Other keys to success in sports, such as dedication, persistence, joy, and, yes, even unselfishness, are more obviously spiritual.