In a feel good moment kicking off the reflective and patriotic Memorial Day weekend festivities, the Washington National’s slugger firmly and judiciously grabbed the attention of the younger generation Saturday.
The Washington Post reports that Harper made a memorable guest appearance in front of a group of little league baseball players and parents, and was not shy about emphasizing the importance of winning. The 24-year-old phenom, who hails from Las Vegas, highlighted his visit to a DC area baseball diamond by sharing his healthy disdain for participation trophies. He instructed the kids in a message actually meant for the benefit of parents that a “First Place Only” attitude, should be at the forefront of the mindset when taking the field. Apparently, the valuable life lesson transcended the generational gap, as the entire crowd acknowledged the words with a healthy applause.
To this point in the season, Harper has backed-up his words, as the Nationals are currently on top of the standings in the National League East and poised to make another effective run in the post-season. The all-star outfielder utilizes his bat as a viable tonic against the proverbial baseball of political correctness, as he is leading the National League in home runs and dispensing reasonable and solid advice to the future leaders of the free world. As many professional athletes, who are capable of sparking a positive influence, literally face-plant in fulfilling their duty as role models for youth, Harper embraced his role as a public figure with class and wit. It is truly aspiring to witness a rugged and successful millennial preaching the importance of accountability and the dangers of entitlement- an experience that provides the ultimate segue to remembering our fallen heroes who fought for our freedoms and the luxury to enjoy a winning day at the ballpark.
Read The Washington Post story here.