So as I was watching the Masters Golf Tournament the other day. Yes, I watch golf, please do not judge me. It is a civilized refuge in a chaotic world. So, as I was saying I was quite taken by the determination of Rory Mcllroy to win what is termed a grand slam by taking the Masters and three other major tournaments in the same year.
His angst was palpable and so real it was impossible not to become empathetic to his struggle.
As the announcer talked about his youth in Ireland, his parent’s sacrifices to support his dreams, you were instantly caught up in his story.
I’ve watched Rory play many times and I have to confess when he went against Scottie Scheffler it was no contest.
I’m Team Scottie all the way. Yet on this day when Rory’s dream was locked in a roller coaster battle that could make anyone run for the refrigerator and a carton of Hagan Das, I signed up.
I held my breath as he putted, I closed my eyes as his shots went into the water. I watched with a sense of foreboding as Justin Rose, Bryson DeChambeau and Rory continued to exchange the lead in a brutal series of mishaps on all sides.
It was simply the most exciting tournament I’d ever seen.
And I was all in and invested up to my eyeballs.
I’m certain I’m not alone in feeling that the stakes were high and the stress ten times more so at Augusta. The crowds moaned and cheered with every change in the leader board and at home I yelled at the TV knowing full well no one could hear, but hey, it made me feel better.
Still and all the actual game is not why I’m writing this blog. Many sports professionals with more knowledge and readership than I will undoubtably put pen to paper to memorialize this incredible contest.
My reason is something more personal and a bit puzzling. When the fans are screaming and cheering as a contender walks by, why not simply wave back at them?
Yes, I know golfers are under enormous stress and focused like a gold digger on her rich old husband gasping for air, but a wave, a thumbs up, give us something.
I am a firm believer in the effect positive energy has on the universe.
Many believe prayer is vital to healing and recovery. I am one of them.
Athletes truly give themselves a gift when they encourage their fans to send positive vibes their way.
I’m sure Rory was incredibly stressed and almost catatonic in his pursuit of that next hole, but a thumbs up to let the crowds cheering him on they matter, they are in this with him, even just a smidgen, would mean a great deal. I also know he appreciates his fans.
Please understand this is not a criticism, just a simple reminder that fans are important. We also serve who only stand and wait.
We are invested in your success and with you when you need it most. We give of ourselves to be a tiny part of your struggle. That’s our fan thing.
Fan energy contributes to the space you are currently struggling within. Just acknowledging they are part of your process only ignites more positivity.
It wasn’t just Rory, many many golfers walked by smiling, yet not making eye contact with the crowd. Still, some did.
Some waved, some showed a propensity to interact with the crowds, and yes, they all are preoccupied as they move along the course.
This isn’t just about golf but all sports. Now I am absolutely aware in many sports the fans interaction with the player or players is farther removed, but in some it’s more up close and personal.
And yes, there is an invisible wall between players and fans that should be there. After all they are working at their craft and the stakes are high for them. Trying to keep it together must have very difficult for Rory and keeping it together was paramount I’m sure. The man was a bundle of nerves. So, this is not directed at him in particular.
Yet with golfers they are literally walking among you.
Some golfers stopped before the game like Tony Finau to sign the hats and memorabilia of every fan standing in wait.
Some wave to the crowds and some fist bump or touch hands as they walk by. I saw one golfer throw a golf ball he’d just used into the crowd.
The players will leave the game with a payday and or a win, the fans will leave with a memory.
Like so many moments in our lives, bad and good when we remember exactly where we were or what we were doing, a wave, fist bump or smile in our direction only enhances the experience and the memory. Please understand this isn’t an “it’s all about us,” kind of thing, or “anything about us” thing, just a suggestion.
I’m thrilled for Rory and believe he truly earned the accolades and rewards that come with being an outstanding player. That he deserved to have his dreams come true after years of attempts and disappointments and I couldn’t be happier for him. When he fell to his knees sobbing at the playoff hole, I grabbed the Kleenex box.
I also believe all athletes should understand the fans are in it with them all the way, and although anonymous they cheer them on. And yes, it may be part of an athlete’s process to remain within themselves as they focus on the goal so they can’t always engage. Being there and sharing the moment is our reward, and a smile or a wave would be our trophy. Just sayin’.
Congrats and thank you to Rory and all great competitors who achieve and struggle to make their dreams come true. Especially for reminding us they will if we prevail.
The Masters is a masterful reminder of how green and beautiful a course can be, whether in golf or life.
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