Out of bounds...

Well, by now y'all know I am sucker for feel-good sports stories. You know, stories that show class and honor the game without sacrificing competition.

In this story from AP (courtesy of Rivals.com), we hear about how Illinois DeKalb High School chose to honor a grieving player during a game against rival Milwaukee Madison High School.

DeKalb High senior Johntel Franklin had lost his mother, and his team was playing without him. After the game started, in need of support from his team, he made the trip to join his team directly from the hospital.

There was one problem: Franklin was not on the pregame roster, and playing him would cost his team two technical free throws in a close game.

The opposing coach actually tried to decline the shots. The referees conferred, and (in what I believe to be the right decision), decided to stick to the rules. In a testament to how honor can exist within the rules, the coach decided on a way that would not contravene the rules, allow the young man to play and honor his mother.

He had his player (who volunteered) to miss the free throws. On purpose. Out of bounds.

In a time when stats rule our collective consciousness, when athletes use drugs to create the facade of excellence, when Ws are the only measure of worth, it is refreshing to see folks who still understand that respect looks most regal when it is given away freely. Compassion is never a sign of weakness when it is doled out in an honorable manner.

Hats off to the coaches, players and officials involved. I have never met Dave Rohlman, but is an honor to share the title of "coach" with him.