Getting His Name Out Of The Record Books

Nate Haasis had a stellar career for Southeast High School in Springfield, Illinois, in 2003. He was on pace to set the conference record for career passing yards.

So, in his last game of the season with his team on the losing side on the game, he only needed a few more yards for the record. Yet he noticed that the defense backed 20 yards off the line of scrimmage and made no attempt to defend or tackle the receiver who caught his record-setting pass. The next day, the local newspaper reported that the coaches had made a deal to allow Haasis to set the record, a story both coaches confirmed. Everyone was happy that he had set the record.

Expect for Nate Haasis.

Three days after the game, Haasis decided to write a letter to the director of the conference, requesting that his final pass be omitted from the conference record book. “I would like to preserve the integrity and sportsmanship of a great conference for future athletes,” Haasis wrote. His request was granted.

Many people think fame, adoration, and praise are the most important things. They would do just about anything to anyone to get themselves on top.

However, there are some things more important. Truth. Honesty. Integrity.

Truth is, if Nate had gone along with things, his name might be in the record books, but it would probably be forgotten rather quickly. But in his stand for fairness, he created a legacy that will stand much longer.

A good name is to be more desired than great wealth, Favor is better than silver and gold.

Proverbs 22:1

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