Watching the news can get a little depressing. It seems that feel-good stories are becoming fewer and farther between. Maybe it's me, but the constant crimes and government-related news stories all seem to blend together. Yes, we are always going to need these news stories and it is extremely important to know what's going on in the world around you but don't we all need a break sometimes?

If you are anything like me turning on ESPN is like a sigh of relief. No more horrifying news stories, just outstanding athletes playing the game they love. Doesn't matter the sport because they all have something going on. Even if you don't like sports I guarantee that there is a story for you.

Sports is filled with feel-good stories. The latest one I read was an 18-year-old high school student in Nebraska made a trick shot during halftime at the school's basketball game. James Meiergerd is the student's name. Meiergerd has downs syndrome but that doesn't stop him from supporting the team. He is an honorary member of the JV basketball team and doesn't miss the varsity games.

During one of the varsity games, he made a half-court shot backward. The video instantly went viral and was seen by the Globetrotters. For those who don't know, the Globetrotters are a basketball team the specializes in tricks for entertainment. He became an honorary member of the Globetrotters for a game. Whether you enjoy watching sports stories like this will warm your heart and give you a little more faith in the world.

You're probably thinking about all of the politics in sports. Yes, there are athletes that use their platform to push their political views. A prime example for this is Colin Kaepernick. The former 49ers quarterback used his fame to protest by kneeling during the national anthem. He underwent serious backlash from players, coaches, and fan bases. He went from making millions to being a free agent.

I'm not going to argue whether or not his actions were acceptable but the outcome of his stand shows what sports are all about. When athletes bring politics into sports things start to go south. We watch sports because we love the athletes and the games. If I wanted to listen to politics I would put on the news and let the professionals educate me.

The majority of athletes are just grown ups who are fortunate enough to still be playing the game they love not people trying to push their political agendas.

So, before you decide sports are only for athletes, give them a chance. It's not always about who wins or loses.