by Lolito Tampus

Created on: January 05, 2010   Last Updated: January 07, 2010

In the course of choosing the best sport, the imagined physical presence of  the inventors like James Naismith, William Morgan, Alexander Cartwright and other European and Asian pioneers, must have caused to spend long days and nights of debating and promoting their created games.

They could have possibly talked about the history and purpose why their respective games came into being. They could have discussed about the easy possibilities of conducting, officiating and structuring the respective competitions. 

The aesthetic and strategic components could have been also included. They could have bragged about the good values and benefits in playing the games that directly or indirectly would also reward the participants and onlookers.

They could have gone to the extent of illustrating the importance of their sports to the condition of the athletes' bodies as well as to the well being of the audience who root for their respective players and teams. They could have mentioned the names of great players who became famous and rich.  

With their valued superstars joining in the fray, they could have physically harmed each other, for they too could not practice the value of sportsmanship. 

The reality is that to choose the best sport is not gauged on the number of fans nor on the money component. As commonly spoken in the oath of amateurism, it is usually  to play the best in every game and not merely on winning or losing.  

It is not the popularity of some players but the good values they project to the public. It is not solely on the individual talent but on the manner any player relates to others in the team and to the avid followers and fans.  

It is not primarily on the wit and wisdom of the coaching staff which steers the squad to many victories but the lessons learned during huddles, assessments and evaluations.  It is not the influence brought about by the ambitious hecklers and promoters but the practice of fair treatment and justice for those who should receive equal rights, renumeration and appreciation.

Therefore, the best sport should embrace principles and values to be cooperative and productive not only during practices and games but also all throughout life in the society.

It is a tall order to select one if not the best sport. That sport should be player-friendly which allows lesser risks of injuries, violence and troubles. It

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