The Magic of Sports

This is the last entry of 2009, a reflection on where we’ve gone and what we’ve learned as part of Team Terry’s band of Merry Marketeers. In retrospect, the most important lesson is one we’ve probably always known, but truly experienced this year as we’ve traveled around the state, talking with people involved in various aspects of sports and recreation.

That is – there is nothing the brings people together, whether it’s a family, region, culture, or even a nation, like the shared experience of a sports event, recreational activity, or athletic competition.

When I think about the happiest times I shared with my boys while they were growing up, it involved tailgating at Navy-Marine Corps stadium -- cheering the Brigade, marveling at the flyovers, sliding down the hill to hear the cannon after a Navy score. It was a wonderful experience enjoyed with family and friends (and lots of chocolate, as evidenced by the one on the right.)

When I first began working at the Warehouse, I caught the light rail every morning in Glen Burnie. It passed through some pretty diverse neighborhoods before reaching Camden Yards, but I always looked forward to the conversations I heard (and frequently participated in) on the fortunes of the O’s or Ravens while riding the rails. One of my favorite chance encounters was with a family on their way to see a wrestling extravaganza at 1st Mariner. All the way to Baltimore, we talked about the good old days of Bruno Sammartino and Bobo Brazil.

Sports represent a great common denominator, not just because it is a shared interest. It provides an experience and energy that is palpable and lingers long after the stadium has cleared, a pride (or heartache) with an identity all its own.

What I’ve learned most this past year is that spectator sports (and elaborate facilities) are only a small part of the passion and economic impact of the industry. Yes, major media events revolve around professional leagues, and our state is fortunate to have those franchises and structures. But I’ve really come to appreciate the youth sports circuits and the revenue they generate; and the adult competitions like triathlons, marathons, open water swims and bicycling challenges that bring people from all over the world to Maryland.

I’ve seen how the love of outdoor sports has translated into an appreciation for the incredible natural resources Maryland possesses. The wealth of sports facilities we’ve built are only one facet of our appeal. Consider the myriad attractions of the Chesapeake Bay, state parks and national historic trails that bring competitors and enthusiasts to Maryland.  We are truly blessed in the range and depth of our offferings.

As of today, we still don’t know if Maryland (either the Baltimore or DC/Maryland proposals) will be selected by the committee developing the US World Cup bid. It would be a huge boon for us (and a well deserved tribute to our extensive and very successful soccer network) if that happens.

Our Chairman, John Morton, shared his memories of the 1998 World Cup final in Paris where a million people celebrated in the streets after the French victory.

“The World Cup is unlike any other sports championship,” Mr. Morton said “There is a national pride that transcends any particular region. It brings people of all affiliations together in a common interest. It is the combination of national pride with the highest level of athletic competition that raises the World Cup to a level of passion only the Olympics can duplicate.”

I hope we in Maryland get the opportunity to host part of the World Cup tournament, and the multi cultural passion it brings with it. But even if we don’t, we as Marylanders have so much to explore and share with the opportunities and assets we already have.

In the year I’ve been covering them, the most significant lesson I’ve learned is that I’ve only begun to understand how much there is to see, do, and experience together. It gives me much to look forward to in 2010.