I was standing next to Ali when I heard him mutter “oh, no, they are giving the whole team a rest,” and he saw the entire opposing team come off of the field to rest and be replaced with fresh players. “My God,” he said, “how many players do they have?”
Ali did not have any replacement players, the team on the field was it and they had to keep going, and they did, without complaint. He was up against wealthy suburban America, where they take their athletics seriously.

At half-time, Ali sat the team down and pointed out their strengths and weaknesses, moved some players around, demonstrated to moves to disrupt the opposition. Nobody talked or laughed or moved, they soaked up every word and went right out and scored three goals in the second half.

Not enough to win, but enough to feel proud and committed.

Then, back into the RISSE van for the trip back to Albany. Next time I’m bringing Red, he inspires people.