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I have Rafer Johnson to thank for my sports writing career. In 2011 I launched Ruling Sports. The Manhattan Beach Open credentialed me. I was there to interview NBA players playing during the lockout. A man pulled me aside and said, “That’s who you need to talk to.” 1/
He pointed at a man, who truthfully, I didn’t recognize. I pretended like I did, though, as I was a “sportswriter.” It was Rafer, the 1960 Olympic decathlon gold medalist. He was there watching his daughter, Jenny. I made my way over to introduce myself. 2/
Walking across the sand, I used my Palm Pilot to Google the man I was about to meet. He lived many lives in one. He grew up in a segregated Texas, moved to California as a boy & excelled in track. He played basketball under Wooden and wrestled the gun away from RFK's assassin. 3/
He also helped Eunice Shriver start Special Olympics. I wanted to write on the good in sports. "Mr. Johnson?" "Yes," he looked up from his lawn chair. "I'm Alicia Jessop from Ruling Sports." "Oh, I've heard of you!" I'd been writing for a month, there was no way. 4/
I asked if I could interview him about his work with Special Olympics for Ruling Sports. "Why don't we meet up for breakfast and we can talk for your story?" So there it was, me, a "journalist" for a month had her first interview. 5/
We met at a restaurant in Manhattan Beach. By then I'd read everything about him, including his biography, wherein he discussed that he didn't drink. We ordered pancakes and I was surprised when he ordered a mimosa. He threw me a wink when I said, "I thought you didn't drink?" 6/
I sat with him for hours--we had a couple mimosas--realizing living history was in front of me. He had tales of discrimination, the Kennedy's, Wooden & the Olympics. In front of me, was one of the best men I would ever meet. It was one of the most grateful moments of my life. 7/
I'd write this story about him on September 27, 2011. I was literally nobody when he gave me the time of day. But for Rafer Johnson, I wouldn't have the career I do today. 8/ https://rulingsports.com/2011/09/27/his-best-foot-forward-rafer-johnson/
Life is funny. Today Rafer Johnson died. On this exact day 9-years ago, I quit my law firm job in CA to pursue the passion that led me to Rafer--writing. I wound up my life in California quickly. One of the last people I saw was Rafer. We met at a Starbucks in Long Beach. 9/
I wish I remember better what we talked about. But I know it was about life, hope and the future. Eternal optimism marked both of us. I thank God He led me to Rafer Johnson. I'm forever thankful for his role in my life. I will ensure he isn't forgotten. Rest in peace, my friend.
