As the Olympics approach, we decide where to focus our attention. Historically, we have 'evolved' from small community athletics with local venues, traditions, and support to 'universal' sports.
Recognizing the popularity of iconic sports (e.g. large market professional teams) doesn't diminish the wonderful and particular tapestry woven by small town sports.
In local high school basketball, the 'tech tourney' with qualifying sectional semifinals and championships played at the Boston Garden, with legendary programs like Lexington, Somerville, and Catholic Memorial carried a different cachet than today's tournament.
Volleyball flies somewhat under the radar in Massachusetts. Championship games don't yet attract thousands of fans, and the sport doesn't have movies like Hoosiers celebrating hometown heroes like Bobby Plump of Milan, Indiana. But we're waiting, patiently.
It's far better to celebrate what we have, rather than bemoan what we do not. Compare the local volleyball team to the dysfunctional Boston Red Sox. The Red Sox have a team of overpriced prima donnas that has plunged toward the collective depth of anonymity. Melrose has a dedicated group of athletes working collaboratively and selflessly. It's easy to understand whom I'd rather watch.
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