Sometimes it seems like the only big news that ever comes out of the sports world is negative. In the past year alone, baseball has seen one of its most-heralded players get busted using a corked bat; basketball's "golden boy" has been brought up on rape charges; and football has actually lost a player (Dwayne Goodrich) due to a homicide conviction.
Every now and then, however, an inspirational story emerges out of the realm of athletics that reminds us what sports are really all about.
Jim Abbott, who was born without a right hand, reminded us when he threw a no-hitter against the Indians Sept. 3, 1993.
Cyclist Lance Armstrong reminded us July 26,1999 -- just three years after doctors gave him a 50-50 chance to live -- by winning the first of his five consecutive Tour de France titles.
And although many people are unaware of the date's importance, the most recent such reminder occurred Sept. 18, 2003.
That's when Neil Parry, a member of San Jose State's punt-return unit, played 30 of the most historic seconds in college football history.
With 13:45 left to play in the Spartans' matchup with Nevada, the crowd began to chant, "Parry! Parry!" as he sprinted onto the field
On Wednesday, the special-teams player had an opportunity to visit with President Bush, a meeting requested by the White House. To learn more about Parry and Bush's visit, go to: The Mercury News' 10/16/2003 Story
18 months and 20 surgeries did not stop him. Neither did having his right leg amputated. Parry never lost hope in believing he could return to the game. This is a story about true courage and motivation.
Enter your e-mail address to receive a compendium of the week's top inspirational stories:
fresh content posted
