Death of an athlete

Unlike any other week in sports history, these past 7 days have proven to be quite compelling. We have seen scandal (NBA referee Tim Donaghy accused of betting on games that he refereed), accusation of unethical behavior (Mike Vick and dogfighting), and the ever lingering question of "Does he use (Barry Bonds and steroid use)"?

With all of these events swirling around in the media, there have been several deaths in the world of sports that have been brushed over for the more "glitzy" headline grabbers.

• Terry Hoeppner(59)- former Indiana football coach (cancer)
  
• Mike Coolbaugh(35)- Tulsa Drillers minor league baseball coach (hit by line drive while coaching first base)
  
• Margaret Ruth "Maggie" Hilbrands(12)- Lowell Xtreme traveling softball team (hit by ball during practice)

Sitting here at the keyboard I am wondering why I feel the need to write about such events that really have no bearing on my "stay-at-home mom " life. Yet, I can't help but feel sad for the families of these athletes. Cancer touches many, heart-attacks can happen instantly, stepping on to a field poses the risk of being hurt (killed?). Maybe I am writing tonight because there is a realization that my life (or your life) can change in an instant...while taking a jog, fielding batting practice, driving the kids to soccer practice or your husband to rehab.

Mike Coolbaugh and Maggie Hillbrands. They loved the game. All of the articles that I have read (http://sports.espn.go.com/minorlbb/news/story?id=2945798 & http://chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/sports/highschool/cs-070725softballdeath,0,109628.story?coll=cs-highschool-headlines)
leads me to believe that they died playing a game they loved.

I pray for comfort for all who knew these athletes. I pray for their families, teammates and the fans.

I also pray for Tim Donaghy, Mike Vick and Barry Bonds.

Be Blessed.