I was very encouraged to read the article "Bhaktivedanta School Wins National Championship". I think that physical activity is very important for our spiritual, mental, and emotional development. Too many times this gets ignored, much to our detriment.  It's also a great way to interface with the outside world; it can be a wonderful example to other people about the versatility of Krishna Consciousness.  Of course, with any of these things, I believe it's the consciousness behind it. 

It's obviously of the utmost importance that whoever is leading or coaching these boys is of the highest character, someone who can use this as an opportunity to help them develop their spiritual lives.  Almost every experience can be used to help us grow in spiritual life and this is no exception. It's like real estate, instead of "location, location, location," it's "intent, intent, intent."  A devotee friend recently pointed out something very helpful to me; she said this movement is meant to incorporate *everyone* and there should be a place for everyone, liberal or conservative (or whatever duality you choose).  That also means the artists, the actors, the musicians and yes, the athletes. 

Beth Bauer (New York, U.S.A.)