12735 A fantastic story was recently written by Henry Abbott for his blog, TrueHoop. His story reveals how playing hoops in Iraq is playing a BIG role in creating greater _*esprit de corps*_ , for an infantry unit in Iraq. A court has been fashioned on the dirt, ground rules have been determined (no 3s are shot and no dunks allowed) and been agreed on, and daily games are played even after long hours on patrol. In the "story":http://myespn.go.com/blogs/truehoop/0-32-220/Infantry-Hoops-in-Iraq.html , Lt. Ted Janis states what he believes to be undeniable benefits and contributions that these make-shift basketball games provide the troops: "Playing sports, win or lose, raises morale, continues to reinforce our teamwork, relieves stress, keeps us fit." Henry's article is another wonderful "proof of concept" moment that reinforces the premise that no matter what we may be facing as human beings, be it a life-threatening situation or a dire circumstance of some kind, sports and play find a way to be present and provide an assist for us to deal with the challenge. It's nice to be reminded that the power of sport is always present in our lives. The equation in the story Lt. Janis and his troops is clear: Troops + Hoops = Multiple *Rs* (*R*elaxation and *R*ecuperation via power of play; *R*econnecting with a little slice of home; *R*estoring and *R*eminder of the kinship in arms that is shared; *R*emembering a simple pastime amidst their daily chaos) Thanks, Henry for sharing the story & a BIG thanks to all the troops for your service! true 2008-05-26T13:15:29Z 55468 1 2008-05-27T00:06:01Z