H. B. London wrote this week about Joel Northrup. Joel is a high school student who wrestles competitively in Iowa.
Last week, he competed in the state tournament. The draw slated his first opponent to be—a girl. In a stand reminiscent of Eric Liddell in CHARIOTS OF FIRE, Northrup refused.
“Wrestling is a combat sport and it can get violent at times. As a matter of conscience and my faith, I do not believe that it is appropriate for a boy to engage a girl in this manner. It is unfortunate that I have been placed in a situation not seen in most other high school sports in Iowa."
The good news is that Northrup was able to wrestle in the consolation rounds. (Incidentally, he won his first match.)
Joel’s dad is a preacher. The local newspaper quoted him as saying, "We believe in the elevation and respect of women and we don't think that wrestling a woman is the right thing to do."
Is it just me, or do both Northrup men make complete sense?
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