By Mike McGraw
Executive Director
We all love to celebrate the triumphs and great moments in athletics. The truth, however, is that there is far more disappointment than glory in sports, particularly at the high school level.
More teams and athletes fail to achieve their ultimate goals than succeed. Athletes discover their limitations at least as often as their capabilities. Often, the disappointment stems from factors outside the control of the athlete.
Perhaps that is the ultimate life lesson of sport.
Take the case of Eric Nixon of Indianapolis Scecina Memorial High School. Like most young men who attend Scecina, Eric hoped to play football for the Crusaders. That dream was dealt a serious blow during his freshman season because of a freak injury in his lower back. He was able to return to the field his junior year, only to have his career ended permanently by a serious shoulder injury.
The issue for Eric Nixon was not whether he would realize his athletic dreams, but rather how he would react to not achieving them. That is a test he passed with flying colors.
Eric wanted to continue to be a part of Crusader football. So, he spent his sophomore season serving as a manager for the team. After the career-ending injury during his junior campaign, he again refused to turn his back on his teammates. During his senior year, he returned to assist the Crusaders and was promoted from manager to filming the games for instructional and breakdown purposes.
All the while, Nixon found time to lead the Scecina service club and organize food drives and other service projects in the community. His efforts and resilient attitude earned him a nomination for a St. Vincent Spirit of Sport Award. We hope you enjoy our interview with Eric.
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