arsity sports was key in staying fit. James then started to participate in gymnastics and rugby. He was so good at these sports that by his junior year he received the university’s highest awards for his athletic involvement. He was also part of the student government, Society choir, and the Literary Society for which he debated. After much study and hard work, James finally finished his four-year Bachelor program in 1887 and was put on the Prize and Honour List for completing his Bachelor of Arts Honours in philosophy and Hebrew. He graduated as one of the top ten in his class on April 30, 1887.After graduation, James enrolled in the Presbyterian College. To pay for his education, James took up a job as instructor of physical education in the gymnasium at McGill. He studied hard as a student in a theological program and involved himself in extracurricular religious activities. He was part of the staff of the Presbyterian College Journal, the Literary and Philosophical Society, and the Missionary Society. James also liked to participate in rough sports such as lacrosse and rugby. Many people tried to deter him from sports so he could focus on his studies, but James made room for both.Dr. James Naismith was very active in sports, but he did not decide to become active in helping others to be active in sports, until a remark that changed his career. During a senior rugby game, a player on James’ team swore, then apologized to James, explaining, “I forgot you were there.” These words changed the course of his life; now he began to ponder on the idea of helping men through athletics and ministry.He began to develop his idea by visiting the Y.M.C.A (Young Men’s Christian Association) in Montreal and became acquainted with D.A. Budge, the general secretary of the Y.M.C.A. James explained his idea of helping young athletes to Mr. Budge. Mr. Budge informed him about the Y.M.C.A International Training ...
