What Does That Even Mean?

When it comes to sports, there's one phrase that I just can't understand. I mean I flat out can't comprehend it. A lot of people say it...but to me, it's a foreign concept:

"I just play for fun."

Wha?! What does that even mean?

This week, the organization I work for will host its annual employee fun day--we call it "Day on the Green" or DOTG for short. At DOTG there will be crazy relays, a dunking booth, a spirit competition, etc...but the focal point of the day is the annual volleyball tournament. Yep, a bunch of cubicle-laden co-workers get out on the grass and try to knock a ball over the net...some of them for the first time in their lives.

It's hilarious. Unless you take competition very seriously.

Which I do.

So, you can imagine how frustrating it is for me to see players who insist on being part of the team, even though they're afraid of the ball.

Why would you put yourself through that?

Or another thing that absolutely kills me is those players who are unwilling to move to go after a ball. Oh sure, they'll swing at the ball, if it's within their reach, but God forbid they have to move a couple of steps!

Now, I'm no great athlete. (I know, I know, that comes as an absolute shock to many of you.) But I am not afraid to dive for a ball or jump up to block a heavy-handed spiker. When I'm done with a game, I'm winded...I'm tired. I worked. I certainly didn't stand around enjoying the scenery.

I play to win. And if you're not in it to win it, then seriously, I'd rather not be on your team. And it's not so much that I hate losing, it's just that I would rather lose trying...than to coast through any sport with a half-hearted effort.

I'm sure you're thinking: "Tim, chill...it's corporate FUN day." I understand that. But this is just how I was made. So forgive me if this concept of "just playing for fun" is foreign to me.

I just don't get it.