John Bova: ‘Sporting heroes’

Sporting heroes

Collecting guernseys full of sweat
was not what football was about;
but score a try and jump so high
while pretty girls do cheer you on
gave some ideas that life was bold
for those whose lives were ruled by goals.

To score a match or watch the crease
was not what cricket was about;
but hit the ball and bowl so quick
while pretty girls do cheer you on
gave some ideas that balls in flight
would guide them through the trials of life.

To fire a gun at start of day
was not what running was about;
but finish first with breath to spare
while pretty girls do cheer you on
was something special on display
like they were actors on the stage.

Oh those whose lot at college was
to be backstage when sport was on,
I offer tea and sympathy
and wish that with each passing year
an angel who had lost her way
might find a way to tell you true:
“as death approaches do not fear,
the last are always welcome here”.

John Bova