Bainbridge High School students Josie Deal and Emily Chambers were recently recognized as Positive Athletes for the Southwest Georgia region.

In order to be recognized as a Positive Athlete, Deal and Chambers had to be nominated by a coach, teacher, parent or fan and embody the seven definitions of a positive athlete. They must display an optimistic attitude, be an encouraging teammate, a servant leader, display a heart for others, admit imperfections, always give 100 percent and put the team first.

This year the Positive Athlete organization received more than 5,400 nominations, but Deal and Chambers were recognized in their sport of golf and gymnastics respectively.

Both girls admitted to being surprised.

“It makes you feel good that people see you that way,” Chambers said about being told she was a positive athlete.

Deal agreed, “I think it’s cool because that means I’ve had an impact on a certain person’s life with my positivity.”

It can be difficult to stay positive, especially in sports competition, but Deal said it doesn’t take a lot to stay positive on the course.

She explains it can be a lot of tiny things; a smile can go a long way, she said.

Chambers said she stays positive during gymnastics meets by just making fun of herself when she messes up. She tries to be happy with how she did on the other events, instead of focusing on the negative.

“Take everything with a grain of salt,” Chambers said.

They both agree that no matter what is going on with the score or with teammates it is important to keep the positive energy going in order to have a good outcome.

Deal and Chambers will be notified soon if they have moved onto the state level of Positive Athletes, where they will be eligible for scholarship money and other recognition.