I only had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Bill Mays once, so when the iconic businessman, community leader, and philanthropist passed away recently, I quickly reflected back on an interesting conversation we had a few years ago at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. He was attending a business function at the track, and yours truly seized the opportunity to introduce myself to the man who made the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper both relevant and successful. I had seen him before at both Pacer and Colts games, and was curious about his opinions relating to the economics of professional sports, and how it had impacted our city, both financially and socially.
He quickly extended a handshake and offered me a seat, and we began to talk about the landscape of sports in Indianapolis and what my small contributions to his newspaper, the Indianapolis Recorder, actually meant.
We shared the same concerns regarding the cost of constructing new stadiums and both concluded that situation, coupled with the lack of a salary cap for rookies, had crippled many NFL franchises across the country.
Our conversation quickly shifted to the NBA and we both marveled at how guaranteed contracts and a lack of effort on the playing court had equated to enormous financial success for many of the players in the league.
I touched on my passion for IndyCar racing and how it had become a big part of my life, and we agreed the facility we were sitting in was indeed the cathedral of racing.
As I started to thank him for his time and the hospitality, he quickly offered some comments that still resonate today.
“You have a responsibility to write about more than simply what the outcome of a game was,” Mays stated.
I must have smiled when I agreed with him as he gave me a very serious look and made sure I understood what he was referring to. “You have to sometimes write about things that are not warm and popular, and you cannot hesitate to do such,” he added.
While I would like to think I generally approach things that way, it did make me consider even more just how correct he was. The sporting world is just as flawed as the millions of people who flock to stadiums and arenas all over the country every week, seeking a respite from the daily grind of life. When those we root for struggle off the field, it warrants scrutiny and demands a fair, yet responsible portrayal of the facts. Mr. Mays knew that and wanted to make sure I did as well. While I never had the opportunity to converse with him again, I still from time to time reflect on his thoughts and how poignant he was that sunny afternoon. He clearly felt one must tell the entire story, regardless of circumstance.
While there has been, and will continue to be many things written in tribute to him, I simply share my encounter with him as a moment I will always remember and benefit from. Obviously I did not know him as well as many others did, and I sure hope he realized how much I appreciated the advice he gave me. Somehow, I think he did. Thank you Sir.
Danny Bridges who offers his sincere condolences to the Mays family, can be reached at (317) 578-1780, or at Bridgeshd@aol.com.
