Winning (and losing) means everything.

And the title goes to...Coginchaug!

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At 40, I still get a thrill in taking part in all types of athletic pursuits. I realize I won’t be standing on any podiums. I have become a middle of the pack athlete.  Despite this, I get great personal satisfaction that comes out of crossing a finish line. While the first place athlete may be showered and had a pizza by the time I finish, I still haven’t forgotten the feeling that one experiences when a possible victory is within reach.  The nerves are tangible. One envisions both the winning and losing scenario through many restless nights sleep. You try to tunnel vision your way through good and bad workouts. Any pain is absorbed by your mind’s tenacity. Your smile is both knowing and unknowing at the same time. At that point winning means everything and in the same breath, so does losing. Both victory and loss take you on a journey to self-betterment. The challenge that any sport brings can only bring more depth to life.  I was fortunate to photograph the girls ‘ basketball state championships on Saturday.   I was transfixed by the Blue Devils determination to win. In a society of participation trophy kids, I was enlightened by what I saw. In front of me were young people who were willing to put it all on the line, knowing things could go either way. The lessons they learned from the game will stay with them, long into their “middle of the pack” years. Whether they had won or lost the big game, they’ll someday realize that they lived fully in the moment.  Congratulations to a great group of girls, you have inspired us all.