Motivation comes in many forms. Football coaches might deliver a rousing pregame speech, or a high school player dressing for the last time might be inspired to end his career on a high note.
In Chile, inspiration came from a less conventional and ultimately tragic source. The violent death of a player drove his determined team to try to capture a championship. Even when they came up short, his memory continued to act as the ultimate catalyst for motivation.
Chile is one of the international football community's newest member federations, having gained full IFAF membership status at the IFAF Congress in Canton, USA, in July of 2009. Its teams might not be on a par on the playing field with the likes of Austria, who won the 2009 Group B European Championship, but the story of how one of its teams won a championship makes Húsares deserving of the IFAF August Team of the Month Award.
Diego Schmidt-Hebbel Niehaus, a 25-year-old right tackle and tight end for Húsares, was visiting his girlfriend's home in Providencia when he was allegedly confronted and shot by Ruz Rodríguez. The assailant is accused of forcing his way into the residence intending to rob the family and Diego, who was then fatally injured while trying to protect his girlfriend and her family.
Soon to take to the football field, the Húsares decided to dedicate their attempt to win a tournament to their former number 82, and the emotionally motivated squad clinched a spot in the championship game.
But Húsares lost to rival Volcanos in a heartbreaking match and the tears that flowed had nothing to do with touchdowns, field goals or interceptions, but for their fallen teammate, who they felt they had not honored by failing to secure the most important victory of their careers.
This year Húsares were not to be denied in their quest to honor Diego. On offense, defense and special teams, their efforts translated into wins, as Húsares outscored opponents every week and they finished the regular season with an unbeaten to clinching the first seed in the championship game.
A perfect regular season was not enough for the players of Húsares. Back in the season finale with Diego their motivation, the team posted a 20-point shutout and their mission was accomplished. A moving post-game ceremony dedicated the title to Diego Schmidt-Hebbel Niehaus.
What they did wasn't just win, they turn the sadness into motivation, and with hard but fair playing, Húsares demonstrate attitude and purpose beyond the game. It was a tough journey as individuals but they stayed together as a team.
There is a facebook group dedicated to Diego's memory.