Words matter only when shining fair play examples set fire to our hearts!
The World Health Organization says that anyone can drown but no one should. Life is born but it can also end in the water. As a swimmer, lifeguard, lifesaving athlete and TV and Olympic Games film director, I understand the value of sports. However, sports without rules can be dangerous, physically, emotionally, socially and financially. Some sporting event organizations might look like a 6-member committee, in which five wolves ask a sheep to vote what they would have for lunch. Sport rules are necessary so they can be followed and inspire imitators. The power of imitation was perfectly used by Nelson Mandela, when South Africa won the 1995 World Rugby Cup. Mandela’s biography says that the supreme importance of that win, was the belief that if something good happens once, it can happen again! Therefore, we need shining examples of sportsmanship and kindness. Stathis is driven by that motive, and that’s why I support his endeavors. Together with Dr. Mastora, they wrote these rules. Rules however are only words. Words alone mean nothing - but the shining examples of fair play of those that follow them can set fire to our hearts. When Baywatch aired, people became imitators of lifesaving and became lifeguards, because we had exposed them to a compelling and entertaining show that taught them about water rescues and resuscitation. Congratulations to the authors of this booklet, hopefully it will benefit the world lifesaving community and become a beacon for the next generation of lifesaving heroes.
