On the Olympic stage— under the brightest lights the world has to offer— athletes have a chance to demonstrate individual excellence and claim glory for their home country. But occasionally the athletes represent something greater. The gold medal ceremony can play more universal themes than the champions’ national anthem.
From aging trio of LeBron James, Steph Curry and Kevin Durant that led USA men’s basketball to gold, to the 37-year old Novak Djokovic winning the last accolade he lacked, to Simone Biles adding another gold medal to her total at an age when most gymnasts can no longer dominate globally, the 2024 Summer Olympics was a bittersweet send off to many of the greatest athletes of our generation. The elation of victory at their final curtain call was only improved by the knowledge that we may never see these great athletes on the global stage again.
It stood as a stark reminder that greatness doesn’t last forever, and we need to appreciate it before it’s gone.
Over the last three years, Wabash fans have been spoiled with greatness on a more familiar scale. National Champions and contenders, semi-final runs, generation-leading talents and community-inspiring athletes have graced our historic halls with their commitment to make the most of the opportunities they have. The world might not have been watching, but the day-to-day excellence of athletes is worth appreciating while it lasts.
This year more than 200 Wabash students will take to the field, court, course, track, pool and mats to make the most of their college career. Gold medals might not be on the line for all of them, but that won’t make their journey any less unique. In the snapshot of life that a four-year college experience amounts to, brevity gives every athlete once-in-a-lifetime stakes. The fight can mean just as much as the win. Don’t be afraid to appreciate the best that we have today.
Don’t miss your time with Wabash waiting to win a national title. There will always be a better athlete in the future. And history will forget every champion. Celebrate greatness when you see it, no matter who else is watching.