Chances are that if you are a sports fan then there are moments in your life where sports have transcended the competition on the field of play and provided defining moments in your life. Sports have healed relationships, created long lasting bonds, brought nations together, brought communities together, and sports have inspired people for generations. In some way or other sports will impact a person in some way in their life’s journey.

I remember the first time my father took me to Riverfront Stadium for a Reds baseball game and the ride home having an actual conversation with him. Being able to relate to my father for the first time on that level was a very special moment for me. It’s a moment that I can’t wait to have with my own son someday.

I will always cherish those moments shared with my friends over the years going to basketball and football games. The high fives, the hugs, and the chest bump when our favorite player made the big play. All of those laughs I’ve shared before and after the games have been great times indeed.

My son is only three years old and I have already had immeasurable joy taking him to his first Cardinal basketball game, and watching that big smile come on his face when he seen the mascot for the first time. I’m certain that the feelings a father has at that moment can only come from that experience.

These are only moments in my life experienced as an observer of sports. The defining times I’ve had during my involvement in sports have been just as impactful. That coach who inspired me to reach further, that game where I got my moment and that comradery shared with a team. Learning what it means to win and lose and the appropriate way to deal with both.

With all of the positive moments that sports brings to our lives there are times that they bring a dose of reality. Yes sometimes sports serve as a sobering reminder that we are only human and humans are capable of doing horrible things. I don’t think anyone could have said it better than the voice of the Louisville Cardinals Paul Rodgers did yesterday.

Sports have reminded Cardinal fans this week just how much it can relate to real life. And while it’s happened before I’ll never get used to watching human failure. Just like all of you I’m ready to get back to those happy moments and ready to see more achievement. I’m ready to share that next awesome experience with someone.

In a few weeks we will be heading into spring. Spring is a time of the year that brings life back to nature. The time moves forward and new beginnings are abound. As we head into the new basketball season that is March Madness and as we head into the spring football practices I hope the Louisville athletic program can move forward and put this latest negative behind us. Go Cards!