Need a good coach? Get yourself a Mac.

From L-R: Brigade member Evelyn Austin, Parker Curl and Richard McIntosh

The Sportsmanship Brigade made its first visit to the St. Louis Jewish Community Center (The "J") on Saturday. Kindergarteners from Our Lady of The Pillar took on the aptly named "Heat" team of first graders from The "J". Now the score got out of hand fairly quickly as the first grade team took control. However, Our Lady of the Pillar coach Richard McIntosh never allowed his young players to think they were doing anything less than playing well. The 7u division at The "J" is a teaching league which allows coaches to be on the court with the kids. McIntosh jogged from end to end giving his kids instructions and encouraging them. Even when the Heat team hit what seemed to be impossible shots, McIntosh's expression never changed and he never alarmed the kids with any out of control behavior. Rewarding Coach McIntosh was a no-brainer for the Brigade.

Then we had young Parker Curl from the Heat. Parker's team took good shots, passed the ball well and played good defense. They are a fundamentally sound group of kids who never beat their chests or tried to rub their eventual victory in the faces of the younger team. Parker stood out during a play in the second half when an Our Lady of Pillar kid fell to the floor. The young man wasn't hurt, but it was good to see Parker show leadership and turn back to help him up and continue playing. Even in first grade, Parker showed the type of maturity that will take him far in sports and in life. Brigade members saw fit to recognize him as well.

The Sportsmanship Brigade is a group of Sports Commission volunteers who visit youth sporting events looking for acts of good sportsmanship. Athletes, parents, coaches and fans who display good sportsmanship are rewarded with a certificate of recognition and a gift card to a local business. For more information about the Sportsmanship Brigade, including scheduling and volunteer information, please click here or call 314-345-5130. Until next time...

Be a Good Sport!

-Sol