Greyhounds coach races ahead of the pack with good character

From L-R: Solomon Alexander, Sarah and Coach Connolly

Jim Connolly of the Clayton (Mo.) - based Greyhounds basketball team gets it. His 5th grade girls team took on the St. Louis Majestic Friday night at the St. Louis Sports Center. The game was competitive and both teams played hard. There was a particular play when Sarah (pictured above) fell to the floor after battling for a loose ball. The exchange was pretty physical and Sarah was pretty upset. Connolly immediately pulled her out of the game and began talking to her to calm her down.

He stood out to the Brigade because he was a calming influence when his player was noticeably upset. Others coaches may have gotten upset with the officials or the other team. Connolly's concern was where it belonged - on his player. The Brigade thought he handled the situation perfectly and thereby recognized him for his good sportsmanship and excellent coaching this week.

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


Be a Good Sport!

-Sol