U wrestling: J mentioned in church
Posted on September 28th, 2008 – 12:01 PMBy Roman Augustoviz
Visiting pastor Gary Ries was giving his sermon at Christ Lutheran Church in Blaine and I was nodding off, as usual, when he mentioned J Robinson.
That jarred me. Who has the most successful athletic program in the state, pastor Ries asked rhetorically. J Robinson, he said, answering his own question.
Robinson’s teams are annually among the nation’s best in wrestling, pastor Ries said, and win more than any other pro or college sports program in Minnesota.
His sermon was about legacy, creating one and what it took. Pastor Ries used Robinson as an example of someone who is persistent. He also recruits athletes who have that trait.
Robinson, when he talks to athletes, asked them what it takes to get straight A’s in school? Then pastor Ries answered that question: persistency, the willingness to do the work and not make excuses.
I had never heard pastor Ries speak before, but I enjoyed his sermon, partly because he was talking about somebody I knew. It also made me think of the problems Robinson has but, somehow, I’m sure he will confront them and move on.
What problems? His senior-dominated team last season was rated No. 1 to start the season, but did not fare well in the Big Ten or the NCAA meets. He lost his prize incoming recruit, Jake Deitchler, who decided to train full-time at the U.S. Olympic training center rather than attend the U. He lost his right-hand man, assistant Marty Morgan, and has decided not to replace him on his staff.
I’m curious to see how J, who works at the U without a contract, will bounce back from all this?
I’m also curious if you have had similar experiences? Maybe you were traveling abroad and someone mentioned your favorite Twins player? Or maybe you were out East getting a haircut and the barber started talking about your favorite Vikings player?
True, these are little things, but if they bring a smile to your face, they are worth repeating. Boy, I’m getting philosophical in my old age.
