The Beauty of Sport and Nature by Ian Smith https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu Finding peace in something en-us 2019-03-18 21:42:59 UTC 2023-10-14 00:42:36 UTC hello@padlet.com Magisterial Messi smithim12 https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342625512 5 feet 7 inches. Hardly enough room to store the talent necessary to captivate the world. That's what Messi is. The ball sticks like glue to his foot. Defenders obey his command. Goalkeepers bow down in his honor. It's not just the way that he plays but the respect he has for the game. Honoring his teammates and his country and himself. Every breath he takes is for the game. 5 feet and 7 inches of dribbling and passing and finishing. 

He entered the Benito Villamarin as an opponent. The stands were packed. They were there for him. They all paid to see him. They knew what he was capable of. He stood in the center of the field and moved freely throughout the 90 minutes. His face was focused and determined without once breaking a sweat. He scored goal after goal after goal. All sat in awe of what they had witnessed. On the third goal he took up his position 20 yards out and lofted the ball over the goalkeeper without effort, as the goalkeeper stood rooted to the field. Messi whirled away with a casual jog and pointed towards the sky as time stood still with the ball in the net. His performance was never about himself or his teammates. It was all for the sport and the crowd showed their appreciation as 60,000 fans rose to their feet in ovation. 

Football, futbol, soccer. He was it. It was him. There was nothing else.

https://edition.cnn.com/2019/03/18/football/lionel-messi-hattrick-real-betis-fans-applaud-spt-intl/index.html ]]> 2019-03-18 21:48:32 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342625512 Magic Mike- MC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342841447 Every time he steps on the court he is ready to compete. Fans come from all over the world to watch him. Michael Jordan is one of the greatest players to ever play the game. Six championships won on the same team while earning six championship MVP's. There was incredible amounts of loyalty for his teammates and for his city of Chicago. Five time league MVP and one of the top five greatest scorers ever. There was nothing in the game the you could not count on Mike to do. He was cut his sophomore year from his high school basketball team, but that did not stop him. He went on to be his teams best player his junior and senior year, working himself up to be able to play for North Carolina in college. Playing for three years there, he was able to help win the team an NCAA championship title by knocking down the game winning shot. After his college career, he went on to be a top three pick in the NBA draft. From here on his professional goat legacy began. ]]> 2019-03-19 13:30:53 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342841447 Kelly Barnhill - AG https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342841699 The pitcher for one of the greatest softball teams in the nation. The Florida Gators have such a great leader in Kelly Barnhill. She is very talented, yet maintains a humble attitude. Appreciating the game and everything it has to offer says something about her character. Softball is a team sport. Kelly knows that. She gives credit to her teammates over herself when on the mound. Even if she played amazing and held her opponent to zero runs, Kelly stays humble. Modesty runs through her body and is shown through her words. No one can beat Kelly Barnhill, but in her mind, no one can beat her team. 

Start video at 3:10]]> 2019-03-19 13:31:19 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342841699 The Game-AM https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342841740 The game starts one versus one. Opponents standing directly in front of of each other. The ball goes up and both people jump. Who can jump highest? Who can play smartest? Everyone is an offensive threat. Everyone is a defensive threat. So many pieces must be perfected for this game. The best players pass, shoot, rebound, defend effortlessly. The game changes quickly, within seconds. One mistake, one decision affects who wins. In this game, you play till the final buzzer. This is basketball.]]> 2019-03-19 13:31:23 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342841740 PJY https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342841750 Some say he's too short for the the position in a sport that size does matter. Jason Kelce who stands at 6'3 is still considered small for the league. In my opinion he is the best. He snaps with beauty, fast and accurate. He goes off the line and flows to the defense every time.  If he gets hurt he plays through it. Most people like him for his speech, but not for what he really does. Yes you can tell me hes an All-Pro center, but do you watch him in the game? The way he holds the ball , or the way he gets a back side block. Nobody watches the O line for what their worth because if the are mentioned is usually not good. ]]> 2019-03-19 13:31:24 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342841750 Andrew B Feldman: Broadway prodigy https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342841815 A young poor kid who came out of nowhere. He claimed the Jimmy Award title, and won casters hearts. His confidence is that of a seasoned performer. His voice is perfection. He was in the right place at the right time, and scored his dream role. Now he blows people away  as Evan in Dear Evan Hansen; heartwrenching, emotional, wisewhile never forgetting where he came from. He is living the very fantasy of every theater kid, but not letting it get to his head.------ C.L]]> 2019-03-19 13:31:29 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342841815 Natalia Osipova https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342841823 Becoming a soloist ballerina at age 18, her dancing has only become stronger. She is the principle ballerina of the Royal Ballet in London. Her repertoire includes over 55 ballets.  Not only is she extremely strong and athletic, but she makes every movement gorgeous. It all seems so effortless, but requires so much strength. Ballet is not her only talent. She does other forms of dance such as contemporary. 
SB]]> 2019-03-19 13:31:31 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342841823 j https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342841972 28 years of age and the son of two former footballers. That is Eden Hazard, the captain of the Belgium national team and a player in Chelsea. Well-known for his creativity and speed on the field, Hazard has since been compared to the likes of great football players. He's known as one of the best players in the world. His feet move through the field, guiding the ball right into the opponent's goal. His swiftness shocks the audience. His movements filled with passion. A graceful player, even under the pressure. ]]> 2019-03-19 13:31:46 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342841972 allison schmitt https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342842025 Swimming isn't easy, but she makes it look natural. All of the time and effort required to be successful in the sport is draining but she always has a smile on her face. She moves through the water like a fish. She practices for hours and hours on end. As an eight-time Olympic medalist, her hard work pays off. As an Olympic swimmer, nerves often get the best of you, understandably. But while watching the summer games, she seems to be the calmest one there. And she is so supportive and genuinely happy for her teammates successes and is there for them during their failures. She is motivating to others but also determined to be her best self. She is super cool. -ac

]]> 2019-03-19 13:31:53 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342842025 The True Camping Experience https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342842188 Most people don’t know how it is to be outside all day, free of all stress and excitement of the outside world, but while camping, it all goes away. Maybe it's the occasional rock that finds its way under your sleeping mat or the cold rain that you weren't expecting. It is all a part of the experience. Just soak it all in. 

Some people try too much to prepare for a camping trip. The problem about that is they are trying to control something that cannot be tamed. It is called "The Wild Outdoors" for a reason. At least one thing that you do to be ready for that day will go wrong. Trust me, I've had my fair share. Here are some examples. Going through three boxes of matches to light one meal and not having any left for the rest of the trip. Harsh rain that creates an indoor pool in your tent (that was a long night). Wild animals going through your sealed food bin and leaving it on the ground, and there is much more. You can't be prepared for mother nature. Now I'm not saying that you shouldn't bring needed preparation supplies. Just know that if something doesn't go wrong, the camping trip will probably not leave a lasting impact on your life. 

So bring your friends and take a risk diving into the woods. You will find a hidden world that cannot be brought out with a measly walk. You may even find something more than yourself.
-Kyle Procopio

This picture is my friends (not me, I took the picture) on top of the Appalachian mountains last October. We walked 5 miles to the campsite. At night it rained so hard that it made a 6 inch pool in the tent. The tent was sloped on a hill so it was not too bad. At the end of the night I was soaked and cold, but I spent it with my friends so it was the best trip ever. We prepared for that trip for a month. ]]> 2019-03-19 13:32:10 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342842188 Grey's Anatomy- Meredith Grey https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342842233 From a intern to a driving force. Meredith Grey, the star of Grey’s Anatomy, has enhanced the life of many. Meredith gained her independence from growing up with parents who were always busy. As an intern she worked around the clock. Her complicated relationship with Derek flourished into a strong marriage. Her twisted sister moved away from Seattle. She watched her sister die in a plane crash. She has suffered from many traumatic events but it doesn't stop her from pursing her dreams. She turns the pain into a drive. After the death of her husband she became the head of general surgery. Many surgeons look up to Meredith Grey. She is brilliant.  
CE

]]> 2019-03-19 13:32:14 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342842233 Erin H. https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342842243 Kelly Slater forty-six year old world champion. He's won eleven world titles and five of them in a row. Slater arrived on scene in 1990. Known for his releases and moves. Three perfect twenty heats in his career. Two of those scored at Teahupoo, and one at Cloudbreak. Pulled a 540 air in Peniche, Portugal, in 2014. Slater broke his foot four times throughout his career, but bounced back. The GOAT of surfing is to retire in 2019 after decades of riding the board]]> 2019-03-19 13:32:16 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342842243 traveling https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342842768 The ability to explore new places should not be taken for granted. There are many astonishing places around the world that are worth your time to explore. Get on a plane and see something new. Capture the memories. Spend these adventures with friends and family. Being able to explore the world and see whatever you want is a gift. It's the best thing to do with free time. Visit something you've never seen before. Go hiking for the first time on a trail in the middle of nowhere. You'll enjoy the feeling of accomplishing such a task. ]]> 2019-03-19 13:33:12 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342842768 sheehce https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342845488 2019-03-19 13:37:25 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342845488 Maru https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342845826 In control. That’s what Maru is. No matter the opponent or the stage he is always in control. He never lets anyone decide how the game will be played. No plan or strategy survives in his presence. You don’t decide what to do. You do what Maru wants you to do.  The builds and strategies you practice don't matter when you face off against him. The rules and assumptions that are taken for granted disappear. It doesn't matter what everyone else is doing. It doesn't matter what people think works or doesn't. He will shape the situation however he wants because the only thing that matter is what Maru wants to do.   
-BC]]> 2019-03-19 13:37:56 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342845826 Coffee https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342967670 A cup of it will get you ready for the day. Giving you a kick of energy. Some don’t like the taste but others do. So many types to choose from. Blonde, dark, medium. Perfectly paired with all types of pastries. Customizable to your liking's. Add some cream. Add some sugar. Coffee will make your day go by smoother.  GG]]> 2019-03-19 16:50:34 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/342967670 Manny Pacquiao https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/343058487 70 total fights. 61 wins, 7 loses and 2 draws. The five foot five Filipino boxer stuns the crowd every time. Manny Pacquiao walks in with his family and his trainer. The flag of the Philippines waves behind him. People all around the world pay to watch him live or on TV. They cheer him on loudly during the fights. Pacquiao fights smart and doesn’t waste his energy right away. He moves in and out and throws fast punches. His maneuvers are elusive and he waits for the right moment. He waits for the smallest opening to throw a punch and knock the other guy to the ground. There is no surprise behind all eight world championship titles Pacquiao won in eight different weight divisions.
rg
 


]]> 2019-03-19 19:36:02 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/343058487 Concerts https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/343119691  A wonderful experience. The room is filled with strangers. The passion you all feel makes them feel as close as family. Your favorite band walks out on stage. You push and shove to get close to them. Your love for them shows as you sing all the words to their songs. The world around you vibrates with the sound of music. Everything is perfect. You hope for them to play your favorite song. The band walks off stage only to come back and play an encore. Before you go you grab some merch. The night was amazing. -NR]]> 2019-03-19 23:38:28 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/343119691 Concerts https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/343121424 On the train, on your way to have the greatest night of your life. Everyone dressed in their best outfits. Surrounded by thousands of people who all love the same music as you. The feeling of being in happy bliss and free from all problems. Together you all sing as loud as possible. Dancing until you're out of breath, wishing the night could never end. The feeling of sadness when the last song ends and its time to go. Leaving the concert with no regrets, wishing you could relive it again.
-LS]]> 2019-03-19 23:49:40 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/343121424 Drawing https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/343127458 Line by line. Drawing isn't easy. It takes time, patience, and a lot of focus. You can use your skills in many creative ways. Painting, drawing, sculpting the many ways of art. Drawing by drawing I get better and better. Mistakes are made. Lots of erasing needed. Being able to express yourself in so many ways. Taking a break from all your problems.  ET]]> 2019-03-20 00:28:06 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/343127458 BTS https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/343273465 Kpop. As cringe-worthy as it sounds for some people, it is a part of the universal world of music. You tap your feet to it. Dance to it. Even sing it, by looking at the lyrics if you aren't fluent. It has started to spread throughout the world because of artists like BTS and others. Music can cheer you up when you feel down. It can also be very influential. You relate to the lyrics and find a deeper meaning. Or you could just jam out to it like any other songs you listen to in life. We live with music everywhere now and it will be with us for a very very long time. -RK]]> 2019-03-20 12:15:28 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/343273465 Chelsea FC-JS https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/343276820 The starting squad walks out onto the pitch in Stamford Bridge, the fans roaring. The best team in London was about to start their match. The opponent was their cross town rival, Arsenal. The chants roared across the stadium from the sell out crowd. 6-0 the final score line. The beauty of the team as they worked the ball around the field. They casually worked the ball through the defense, scoring in just 5 minutes. 2 minutes later, Schurrle put in another goal. The gunners were struggling. The fans got louder. Chelsea's opponents knew it would get worse. At halftime it was only 4-0, a respectable loss. Full time came, and Arsene Wenger's 1000th game as the manager of Arsenal had been one to forget. Arsenal Sucks.]]> 2019-03-20 12:24:06 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/343276820 Usain Bolt sheehce https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/343302930 Usain Bolt. A man as fast as man has ever been. His name says it all. Bolt. He can not be caught, he can not be beat. When his name is heat is called and his name is announced the crowd erupts in cheers. He steps up to the block and he gets down in his starting position. The crowd goes silent just waiting to see the fastest man in the world. The gun is shot off, and like a flash he leads the men behind him in an unstoppable and undeniable victory. It was 9.58 seconds of pure speed. 9.58 seconds that set the world on fire. Usain Bolt was a champion. A world record holder. A world champion. In that moment He became the best there ever was. -CS]]> 2019-03-20 13:14:17 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/343302930 F.C. Barcelona- LG https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/343314233 F.C. Barcelona. Fans pour in the Camp Nou and fill up the rows. They are excited to see the best club in the world dominate their opposition. The fans roar as the team scores. The ball is passed effortlessly around the field. Pass, pass, pass. Barcelona slice through their defenders with quick, accurate movements and passing. The fans' roars grew louder. The players work off of each other, as if they know where they are going to be. Pass, pass, pass. They work the ball slowly, but effectively, up the field. Soon they reach the eighteen yard box, striking fear in the defenders eyes. Messi receives the ball. He jukes through three defenders. Using his left foot, he becomes attached with the ball. Strike. The ball glides past the goalie, and slams into the back of the net. The crowd goes crazy, appreciating the beauty and greatness of Barcelona’s play.

]]> 2019-03-20 13:33:03 UTC https://padlet.com/smithim12/49w10zyhhneu/wish/343314233