Bullying today is much more than kicking sand in another’s face. Words can hurt. As you know, words today can go a lot further than school hallways, classrooms, and playgrounds. As another school year begins, we face the threat of cyber bullying, which can be much more detrimental. Can fitness and sports help overcome bullying?
Recently, it was a pleasure for Sarah Sneider to see Lou Ferrigno, the original Incredible Hulk. They reminisced about the time when Ferrigno trained with Harry Sneider at the former Ambassador College in Pasadena. At the time, Ferrigno carried their son, Rob Sneider, then five years old, on his shoulders as he ran around the Ambassador College Track.
Ferrigno at age three lost 80 percent of his hearing, and as a result had a speech impediment. He was teased and bullied in school, but as a teenager he turned to working out and building his body. Ferrigno became a competitive bodybuilder, competing along with Arnold Schwarzenegger in the ‘70s and winning the Mr. Universe title twice. As an actor and super hero, Ferrigno is still today in amazing shape and works out daily.
Harry Sneider was disabled after an accident at age six, had a severe limp and was bullied with hurtful insults by other kids who called him “Limp-along.” But, little Harry had a pleasing positive personality and won their friendship. As a young skinny kid growing up in Minnesota, he read stories about Muscle Beach in California and building muscles so no one can “kick sand in your face.” Harry was not allowed to play sports in high school—sports he loved, like baseball, basketball, and football. The teachers and coaches felt he might “get injured.” Then, he discovered weightlifting and eventually became a world champion weightlifter, as well as a coach and trainer to NFL, NBA and MLB players and Olympic champions. With Harry Sneider, it was always about what you can do, not what you cannot do.
During the recent Special Olympics World Championships, hosted by Los Angeles, it was so inspiring to see those with intellectual disabilities, who have been bullied, overcome the hurt and pain and build confidence through their achievements as athletes in sports. They exhibited such joy, unity and determination. They are all super heroes setting such wonderful examples of courage and bravery.
Mother Teresa said, “Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are endless.” This is so true. Everyone seeks love, support and encouragement—not bullying.
Fitness and sports can build confidence and teamwork at any age. For more information on sports and fitness training, contact Sarah Sneider and her son, Rob, at (626) 355-8964 or harrysneider@earthlink.net.
