Finding God on the playing field

Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2289.: If morality requires respect for the life of the body, it does not make it an absolute value. It rejects a neo-pagan notion that tends to promote the cult of the body, to sacrifice everything for its sake, to idolize physical perfection and success at sports. By its selective preference of the strong over the weak, such a conception can lead to the perversion of human relationships.

Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1882.: Certain societies, such as the family and the state, correspond more directly to the nature of man; they are necessary to him. To promote the participation of the greatest number in the life of a society, the creation of voluntary associations and institutions must be encouraged "on both national and international levels, which relate to economic and social goals, to cultural and recreational activities, to sport, to various professions, and to political affairs."^[1] This "socialization" also expresses the natural tendency for human beings to associate with one another for the sake of attaining objectives that exceed individual capacities. It develops the qualities of the person, especially the sense of initiative and responsibility, and helps guarantee his rights.^[2]

St. Paul: {Find passages about acting like an athlete, running so as to win, seeking the prize, completing the course ...}

Poll

The best description of my attitude toward watching sports is:

I identify strongly with one or more athletes or teams and care very much whether they win or lose.
I enjoy watching sports but I do not root for any particular individuals or teams.
I do not enjoy watching or talking about sports, but I am not bothered by those who do enjoy watching or talking about sports.
I am troubled by the role that sports play in American society; I feel that there is something unbalanced or destructive going on.
I very much dislike watching sports and have no sympathy for those who do.
None of the above describes my view adequately.