The Name of the Game...Defense

Everyone together….. DE-FENSE! DE-FENSE! DEEEE-FENSE! Defense in terms of athletics typically takes the backseat to anything accomplished offensively. The “DEFENSE” chant is usually the most recognition that defensive players will ever receive during any given game. The vast majority of ESPN's sports highlights focus on the best offensive plays on a given day. Unfortunately, defense is perceived by many as a thankless task that leaves the defender fatigued and feeling as though their contributions were un-noticed and minimal. The person getting the headlines scores the most points, knocks in the most runs or scores the winning goal. While both (offense and defense) are keys to winning, we believe it takes a special person to master the art of defense.  It is a person who is willing to expend time and energy to pursue a part of the game that is not viewed to be as glamorous but is a necessary ingredient for success.

Although defense is perceived by many to be a thankless task, thankfully, there are still people out there who do appreciate the defensive prowess of an athlete or a team, and we certainly applaud those who do! The motto we grew up with in Olympia High School softball was “Defense wins Championships!” In fact, that motto has spurred 3 State Championships for the softball team; all of which were saved by crucial plays on defense and clutch performances within the pitching circle.

There are enough awards which are based upon offensive numbers.......... from the Heisman Trophy to the MLB’s MVP award.  On the other side, there is the Gold Glove defensive award in baseball as well but it is not quite as highly publicized or esteemed.  While we can identify with both sides of the coin, one truth in athletics is that defense rarely slumps. You can always have an off night shooting or a lengthy hitless streak but defense is fairly constant. Great defense always has the ability to keep you in the game. Even if you’re facing an excellent pitcher and can’t score many runs you will always be in the game provided you play defense.  In basketball, a game can be kept close simply by the tenacity and effectiveness of a team's defense.  If you can keep the other team from scoring the worst you can finish is in a tie!

So we are here to say just in case you were wondering… Cheers from the biggest fans of DE-FENSE! DE-FENSE! DEEEEE-FENSE!