[Truth]

I can see where many would dispute the selection of Skaggs as the MVP. The distinction rarely goes to a player from a losing team- even when the losing team is the host. I believe it is traditional, though certainly not mandatory, to choose as MVP a player from the winning team.

Still, I am pleased with the selection of Skaggs. I first saw him play in lower middle school and wouldn't have bet a dime on his chances of playing high school varsity basketball. I don't believe anyone has worked any harder to improve his level of play. Skaggs is small and lacks the God-given talent of many or most of the better known athletes. However, he maximizes his presence on the floor through effort and determination. More naturally talented players can learn much from watching him.

Skaggs is a good example to all of us as to what can be accomplished with hard work and dedication.

So, while his selection may be controversial to some, I congratulate him for his fine play and for the hard work he has put forth through his years of competition. I am pleased that he has received this much-deserved recognition.