What Does Winning Look Like in RecLeaguer?

What does winning look like in RecLeaguer?

It is not about scoring the most goals or dominating the game. It is not about the trophy (as we sometimes say, there is no prize other than the prize is friendship!). Winning looks like getting back on the field after a 20 year break and seeing how your body is more capable and powerful than you think. Winning looks like knowing no one, bravely signing up for a league, and then by the end of the first night feeling like you are making new friends. Winning looks like never having played before and making your first catch, hitting your first hit or scoring your first goal and having the entire field erupt in cheers. Winning looks like finally learning how to push or pull the ball. Winning looks like trying your first jump serve and making it over the net or making your first block. Winning looks like being able to practice that new fake out without the pressure to get it right. Winning looks like walking up to the field/court and having people know your name AND knowing others names. Winning feels like joy for you and for me.

In RecLeaguer, we cheer each other on, even when we are on opposite teams. We support our teammates with kindness and love when they make a mistake. We remind each other and ourselves that this is about something bigger. This is about creating spaces where no matter your skill level you belong and each of us have our part in making that happen. Yes, leadership books the fields/courts and create the leagues, but it is the players that create the community. YOU create belonging through your words and actions on and off the field/courts.

We know that this is not for everyone and for those who desire a different community, we high five you on your way to a more competitive league where there is a trophy or money on the line. We wish you luck and cheer you on in your next sport adventure.

For those of you that continue to show up whether it is once a year or the entire year, we thank you for showing up to build community together through playing sports.

We know we aren't perfect and we will make mistakes, so we invite you to show up to join us as our imperfect selves striving to make our little place in the world a better place to belong to.

With gratitude, care and love,

Ellen