It’s a sad truth, but today’s sport’s world is cluttered with negatives – DUI’s, domestic abuse, sexual assault allegations, substance abuse and more. It’s always a nice change of pace to be reminded that out of the thousands of athletes we cheer for and support, there is still a large group of men and women who continually give back and remind us what it means to be a humanitarian, or quite simply: a good human.
00Tuesday night, an elite sampling within the sports world gathered to celebrate the inaugural Sports Humanitarian of the Year Awards, presented by ESPN and PlayStation. The event brought together various sports leagues and their governing bodies to pay tribute to the collective good of sports and to raise more than $500,000 in net proceeds for The V Foundation’s Stuart Scott Memorial Cancer Fund, as well as funding various grants.
The Chicago Bulls and Tamika Catchings of WNBA’s Indiana Fever were honored for their positive impact and roles they have and are playing in their respective communities.
Catchings, who received the individual honors, received a $75,000 grant to advance the impact of her charity, Catch the Stars Foundation. The foundation teaches kids about embracing their differences, building self-esteem and overcoming obstacles. The Foundation also promotes fitness, literacy and mentoring to youth in Indianapolis.
“I am humbled and very appreciative of the ESPN family, along with all of the people who voted for my Catch the Stars Foundation and me,” Catchings said. “Winning this award is way more valuable than the monetary donation that comes along with it – it’s about being able to continue to impact the lives of so many youth that aspire to dream and reach their goals. We will continue pouring our efforts into the lives of our youth through our fitness, literacy and mentoring programs. What an honor and a blessing to be able to bless others!”
The Chicago Bulls took home the team honors and also received a $75,000 grant. The Bulls’ work in the community is a collaborative effort from all levels including players, fans, corporate and community partners and front office staff. The group organized more than 100 community events just last year – events focusing on youth education, the military, violence prevention and health and wellness.
In true first-class fashion, the festivities were preceded by a red (well gold) carpet where we talked with some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment.
In the words of Professional Boxer and Olympian Laila Ali, being a good human is simple. “It’s all about caring about other people, having humility, and not stepping on anyone to get ahead. Doing things from the kindness of your heart makes you a good individual. Some have more than others to give – sometimes it comes down to just cooking a good meal or talking to someone when they have a bad day – it’s not always about money, sometimes it’s about giving our time,” she says.
Many fans probably don’t see just how much leagues, teams, individuals, executives, front offices and the like put into giving back and doing good. Winning is always top of mind, but that’s something that can be applied to much more than the final score of a game.
The WWE’s fan base has increased exponentially over the last few years, but did you know about their aggressive community mission to help others or that WWE Star John Cena has granted more than 500 Make-A-Wish visits? Since the beginning of the program, Cena has granted more wishes than any other celebrity.
Stephanie McMahon, WWE Chief Brand Office, explains their mission. “At WWE it’s our mission to put smiles on people’s faces, whether we do that by our entertainment programming or by our community services initiatives. When you see a child – sometimes a sick child – and they’re smiling from ear to ear because they’re watching their heroes or got to meet one of their favorite superstars and forget for just one minute that they are sick…and to give that moment to their families that they can share together – I think that’s just about the greatest privilege there is,” she says.
As for McMahon’s personal definition on what it is to be a good human, she had this to say: “To me it is a responsibility to give back and I believe it’s an honor and privilege.” McMahon may play a tough role on TV for entertainment purposes, but it’s clear she has a heart of gold.
The WWE Community Relations team was among the finalists for the Sports Humanitarian of the Year Award and received a $25,000 grant for their efforts. After chatting extensively with McMahon, I’d say it’s a safe bet she already has her sights set on taking home this prestigious honor next year.
Others in attendance Tuesday night included two-time Academy Award Winning Actress Hilary Swank, Pete Carroll, Bud Selig, Victor Espinoza, Sloane Stephens, Jay Bilas, Mel B., Jennie Finch, Evander Holyfield, Rainn Wilson, Five For Fighting, Italia Ricci, Shane West and more.
ESPN will televise a 30-minute special featuring highlights from the show next Thursday, July 23 at 8:30 p.m. ET.
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