Jahvid Best a Reminder of How Quick a Collegiate Athletes Fortune Can Change
Best went airborne while scoring a touchdown during the Oregon State, California game, and when he hit the ground, his helmet flew off. The running back lay motionless on the field, as his jersey was removed. Teammates gathered around and waited for signs their teammate would be okay. In the end, they watched as the running back was carted off the field with an oxygen mask over his face. Thankfully, Best has recovered, and now has movement in all his extremities.
For Best, this is his second concussion in two weeks, his first occurring in Cal's game against Arizona State. It's hard to imagine the young running back on the field anytime soon. The first order of business of course, is making sure Best is physically okay. Whether he gets back on the field for the Golden Bears this year, is secondary.
Jahvid Best is 21 years old. His injury reminds us how quick a college athletes fortune can change. Sam Bradford, arguably the #1 pick in the upcoming draft, has suffered two shoulder injuries this year. Tim Tebow, the senior QB from Florida, has also suffered a concussion this season. Most of these players have played football since they were young boys, and to come close to your dream, and have it put in jeopardy due to injury, is painfully unfair. Hopefully Best will make a full recovery and return to the football field, if and when he chooses.
As fans we watch these men play every week, but I'm not sure we realize the sacrifices they make. These are student athletes who must balance their academic, and athletic lives. They play with hopes of making it to the next level, to become professional football players, few succeed, but all dream.
As he recovers, I hope Jahvid is listening to doctor's and doing what's Best, for his future, whatever that is.
Sources:
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/football/ncaa/11/07/best.california.ap/index.html
Published by Vonda Menard
MFA in Professional Writing. My script, Return ot Darfur was performed in New York. Working hard to get this film made. Mother of two wonderful boys. Ultimate sports fan. Favorite sports football and ba... View profile
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