Joyful Balance - The Four Pillars
The Right Way to Win
By Christopher Murphy
There is a cup on display at Saint David ’ s in the sixth floor trophy case . To any outsider , it may appear to be a simple metal cup . But to every Saint David ’ s boy it represents history , school pride , and all of the former students who played against St . Bernard ’ s with a chance to keep the cup up . This year , the 2022 Red Soccer team finished an undefeated season with a win over rival St . Bernard ’ s , thus ensuring the Osgood Cup would remain upright . But more than a claim to a trophy or some other hardware , the Red Soccer team completed a journey that will bind them together for the rest of their lives .
Our Athletic Department philosophy is rooted in sportsmanship , teamwork and the idea that a commitment to these values will lead to success . Our athletes seek to succeed at all they do , be it a third / fourth-grade intramural game or an MPMSL championship ; but just as importantly , they are taught to enjoy the journey . Saint David ’ s athletes learn to celebrate successes , both individual and team , and to also embrace challenges and adversity . We teach our boys to learn from all experiences , good and bad . Our boys learn that a goal is only achieved by embracing all that comes with it . It is okay to fall down , to miss a shot , or to not have one ’ s best personal time in a Cross-Country race . How you respond during each situation is what counts .
The boys are not always going to be successful in their athletic endeavors , but
“ Success is always the end goal , but Saint David ’ s boys are taught that while we ’ re trying to win , we also want to win the right way .”
we stress to them the importance of enjoying the process . It is those tough times , those examples of overcoming hardships or adversity , that they ’ ll remember just as much as the wins . Of course success is always the end goal , but Saint David ’ s boys are taught that while we ’ re trying to win , we also want to win the right way . With an emphasis on sportsmanship , remembering to enjoy the ride and the importance of representing their school the right way , Saint David ’ s boys continue to be successful and fill the banners hanging in the Price Gym . And of course , make sure the Osgood Cup stays up . •
Christopher Murphy is Assistant Director of Athletics at Saint David ’ s School