The total solar eclipse, which occurred on Monday, April 8th, 2024, brought people together in awe and wonder. Athletes from various sports took a break from their regular activities to witness the celestial event unfold above them.
The Cleveland Guardians players, including Brayan Rocchio, José Ramírez, and J.T. Maguire, paused their game against the Chicago White Sox to witness the eclipse. The rare phenomenon captured the attention of millions across North America and parts of Mexico and eastern Canada. The Guardians made the decision to delay the start of their game to allow fans and players to gaze up at the sky without interfering with the game on the field.
Other sports athletes also paused to watch the eclipse unfold. At PNC Park in Pittsburgh, home of the Pirates, and during a practice round for the Masters at Augusta National Golf Club, players, caddies, fans, and reporters alike took a moment to appreciate the natural world’s beauty. Even athletes who were not at sporting events watched it too; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and members of the U.S Women’s National Soccer Team found time to observe it too.
The shared experience brought people together across sports communities and created a sense of unity among all those who witnessed it firsthand. The total solar eclipse was indeed a unique moment that will be remembered for years to come.
As an athlete myself, I think it is essential to recognize that our profession is just one part of our lives. We are human beings first and foremost; we have families, friends
