By DAMIAN RICO
Times Columnist | Tuesday, July 22, 2008 |
One of my favorite movies has always been the original "Rocky." There's something about defying the odds and pushing the human spirit to the limit.
Most of us recall that Rocky Balboa was defeated in the movie, but this film wasn't about victory - it was about the triumph of the soul.
East Chicago's opening of the newly revamped nine-hole MacArthur Golf Course at 139th Street and Indianapols boulevard this month was more than just another ribbon-cutting ceremony; it served as a vehicle for opportunity.
It is a known fact that sports provide an avenue for social adjustment, character building, psychological well-being and ultimately is a catalyst for teamwork.
"I don't play golf, and many believed we wouldn't open this course after nearly a decade because I had no personal interest in it," Mayor George Pabey said.
"This course typifies our commitment to offering opportunity and promoting youth activities. Golf is a sport of integrity and promotes discipline."
Developing character and experiencing positive values are the ingredients for strong leaders. Amazingly enough, most inner cities ignore the importance of offering these valuable life lessons to their youth. East Chicago will not!
For more information about the golf course, its fees and hours, call (219) 391-8362.
I remember having the opportunity to mentor a young man named Steven Outlaw in 2000. Outlaw was no stranger to balancing school and extracurricular activities such as the school newspaper, tutoring and, yes, golf. Many of his classmates playfully teased him by saying, "Blacks don't play golf," to which he'd say, "I do!"
This kid was determined and he excelled both academically and athletically at Central High School. I used to see him practicing at MacArthur Golf Course every day and in the empty lots not far from his home near Block Junior High School. Steven Outlaw defied the odds.
He received a full golf scholarship to Georgetown College and graduated in 2007. He is currently in Scottsdale, Ariz., where he is working for the world's leading luxury brand golf management, development and marketing company.
Troon Golf has more than 200 courses in 31 states and 31 countries, and most importantly, Outlaw is being trained to run one or more of those courses.
Like Rocky insightfully stated in his last movie: "It ain't about how hard you hit, it's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward."
East Chicago's revitalization, which includes MacArthur Park, are for all the Steven Outlaws who long for an opportunity to pursue their dreams.
Damian Rico is a public relations consultant to the City of East Chicago. The opinions expressed are solely his own. Reach him at darico2@aol.com or (219) 391-8206