“Playing like a winner” doesn’t mean winning the game. It means exhibiting sportsmanship while playing the game.
Sportsmanship is expected in sports, no matter the age level, and this story of sportsmanship goes back to August 9, 2022, and the Little League Southwest Region championship game between Texas East (Pearland) and Tulsa National. On that day, twelve-year-olds from opposing teams and rival states displayed sportsmanship in a way that will be forever known as “The Hug.”
Isaiah Jarvis came to bat against Kaiden “Bubs” Shelton, Texas East’s pitcher. Somehow, the pitch got away from Shelton and hit Jarvis in the helmet. Jarvis went down to the ground as coaches and staff raced to help him. Soon, Jarvis gathered himself, was up on his feet, and trotted to first base. Once there, he looked at the mound and noticed Shelton weeping with his head down.
Jarvis removed his helmet, walked over to the mound, put his arms around Sheldon, and told him, “Hey, I’m okay! And you’re doing just great, too.” The moment, captured by ESPN, went viral. Other media, including Good Morning America and The New York Times, also took note.
Shelton and Jarvis keep in touch to this day. (Oh, Texas East won the game.)
WOW! Just WOW! This is absolutely wonderful! I never saw this. This is the ultimate in good sportsmanship. I played little league at that age up until I was 18 and then 23 years of men’s softball and was always a good sport, win or lose. I think all young kids playing in sports need to see this. Very touching! Thank you Matthew Paris for sharing this heartwarming story.