Recognizing athletes for their accomplishments outside of the sports realm is vital. Individuals sometimes forget how much energy student athletes actually discharge while participating in a sport. Student athletes are busy most of the year; their sports activities do not simply consist of participating in contests throughout the season. In some sports, athletes may exert more of their time and energy into off-season events, on top of attending school. Therefore, student-athletes should gain recognition anytime an athlete has the willingness to make strides in helping the community, making good grades, etc. Bainbridge’s defensive lineman, Ryan Adams, is a prime example of how an athlete can take extra steps in the community to make the environment better for the entire population. Recently. He was the recipient of the state Positive Athlete Award for football after being nominated for the award by his wrestling coach, Chad Smith.
The road for Adams to get involved in the community had to be extremely difficult because he participated in not one, but two sports while in high school. Football and wrestling, two of the most physically abusing sports an athlete could participate in. So it is remarkable that he put in the effort to even get up to help up after week-long practices of physical contact. Community involvement is nothing new for Adams; in his ninth grade year, he received attention for selling hot chocolate, so he could raise money for families in need and he managed to raise at least $2500 at one point. That was his starting point in high school for the many contributions he has made, and recently he was invited to a banquet in Atlanta to receive his award. The award was presented by super bowl MVP and Georgia Bulldog legend, Hines Ward, who is also a Positive Athlete Award recipient. Adams managed to edge out the award against more than 3000 other excellent athletes that also made multiple contributions to their communities.
Adams was the recipient because he demonstrated the “Seven Definitions of a Positive Athlete.” It consists of having an optimistic attitude, encouraging teammates, being a servant leader, having a heart for others, admit imperfections, always give 100 %, and puts the team first. Some other notable athletes that are recognized with the Positive Athlete Award are Brian Jordan, Tyrone Poole, Aaron Murray and many others that deserve every ounce of recognition that they have received.
Web Only/June 2016/In the Game Sports Network
GHSA
Bainbridge’s Adams Receives Positive Athlete Award
Written By Aldean Starr
Photo(s) by sowegolive.com
