FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME

" I love this game." We have heard Michael Jordan and other

sports stars tell us about their love for their sport. It is probably (¿ÉÄÜ£©true that they do love their game, but what about those who don't make lots of money? Thousands of unknown athletes work hard very day to become the best in their sport. Many of them train after work and pay for their own trips and equipment. And even if they do become the best, they may never be as famous as the big stars. So why do they do it ?

For many athletes, the Olympic Games is the only time when they will be watched by millions of people. Many medals will be won by

these unknown heroes. Fencing is one of the sports that we don't hear too much about. In the next Olympic Games, Fencing (»÷½££© will be represented by three fencers. Here is what one of them says about her sport: ¡°Fencing is a difficult and fast sport.

Matches will be won or lost in a matter of seconds. People often think it is difficult to see who scores." Marie is training hard for the Olympic Games, but she also has to work. "My boss is very nice and helps me work and train at the same time," Marie says. "I sometimes wish I could make as much money as Michael Jordan, but I don't mind. I only care about getting better and abut competing for my country. The Olympic Games are a special experience, and I am proud to be part of the Games."

Another sport we may not know much about is the hammer throw. One of the proud athletes in the next Olympic Games will be a 30-year- old hammer throw lover, John Peterson. John trains several hours every day and his sport is a large part of his life. John loves his sport. "You cannot make money if the hammer throw is your sport. That does not matter to me. I love the hammer throw."

Much money will be made by the superstars of sport, but for athletes like John and Marie the reward will be to compete with other great athletes from around the world. When the next Olympic Games is being held, look for the unknown athletes. The spirit of the Olympic Games will be shown in their love for the game.