Play ball

If you ever watch kids in underprivileged neighborhoods play sports, you’ll notice that they play with an intensity rarely seen in their better-off counterparts.  Even though they’re clearly having fun, they’re serious about improving their games and really pay attention to the advice their coaches and the older players are giving to them.  They’ve seen what a life-changing event it is when you are good enough to make it in a sport.  Not only is it a ticket for them to make it out of the hood and on to bigger and better things, it can also help their entire family and in some cases, their entire community.  So next time you see that look of determination that seems to belie their young ages, you’ll understand why – it’s so much more than just a game to these kids.