LESSONS FROM MICHAEL CHRISTIAN MARTINEZ

courtesy of scoopboy.com

Micheal Christian Martinez did the country proud by giving his all at the Winter Olympics in Sochi. He finished 19th out of 24 who qualified for the free skate event. The event was won by sensational Japanese figure skater Huzuru Hanyu.

From Michael's example, Filipinos will do well to remember that there is more to sports outside basketball. Michael dared to go into a sport that is so unheard of in the country. Yet, he was able to make it all the way to the Olympics. Something that the country's basketball team has not achieved in 42 years.

It is noteworthy too that Michael and his mom were determined to succeed despite the lack of support from government. As per Philippine Sports Commission records, Michael is not even considered a national athlete. He does not receive a monthly allowance from PSC. Yet, through private sponsorships, he was able to pursue his extremely expensive sport. He was smart enough to tap the private sector to help him defray the cost of figure skating.

Michael started figure skating at the age of 8. His early start in the sport emphasizes the need to start athletes at a very young age. Sports leaders will do well to find potential national athletes at elementary level.

Lastly, the country stands behind those who are determined to succeed despite the great odds that Filipinos face everyday. Filipinos were able to identify with Michael because he showed what even talented Filipinos go through just to pursue their dreams. Sponsors were scarce that Michael's mom had to write to President Noynoy for help. And just like every Filipino who asks help from government, Michael's plea fell on deaf ears. But that did not stop the young athlete to just go on. Much like every Juan dela Cruz who has to contend with financial problems everyday, Michael courageously searched for ways just to survive. Now that he has shown his great potential in front of the whole world, the possibilities for Michael are now endless.

Hopefully, with what Michael managed to show the whole world, Filipinos will get to learn a lot. Hopefully, the lessons will not be limited to sports but life in general.