In-Phase Kids (Sports Lessons for Athletes) Lesson 2 - Courage

Sports Teach Life
Kerri Strug's Story of Courage and Sacrifice
At the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, Kerri Strug, a 18-year-old gymnast on the U.S. women's team, became an international symbol of courage and perseverance. During the team finals, the American team was neck-and-neck with Russia for the gold medal. However, during her vault attempt, Strug landed awkwardly on her first vault, injuring her left ankle severely. In immense pain, with tears in her eyes, she knew the team needed her to complete her second vault to secure the gold.
Despite the excruciating pain, Strug consulted with her coach and decided to go for the second vault. This decision required immense courage, as putting any weight on the injured ankle could have caused a serious break. With unwavering determination, Strug ran down the runway, vaulted, and landed perfectly on one leg. The crowd erupted in applause, and the U.S. team secured the gold medal. However, upon landing, Strug collapsed from the pain. She was later diagnosed with torn ligaments in her ankle, and the image of her heroic vault became an iconic symbol of the Olympic Games.
While Strug's sacrifice secured the gold for the U.S. team, it's important to note that some have questioned whether coaches should allow athletes to compete with such severe injuries.
5 Questions About Courage Inspired by Kerri Strug's Story:
1.) What does it mean to be courageous? Is it about facing your fears head-on, or is it about making difficult decisions even when you're afraid?
2.) How can the lessons learned from overcoming pain and discomfort in sports be applied to challenges faced in everyday life?
3.) How did Kerri handle the pressure? What was at stake for her and her team? How did she display courageousness?
4.) Have you ever faced a situation that required courage? How did you overcome your fear or hesitation?
5.) "Believe in yourself. You are braver than you think, more talented than you know, and capable of more than you imagine." What does this quote mean to you?