This story is free to read.

Wiedmer: Smoltz sends message worth repeating

Former Atlanta Braves pitcher John Smoltz tells his funniest story late in the program as guest speaker at the 2015 Best of Preps banquet at the Chattanooga Convention Center. Former Atlanta Braves pitcher John Smoltz tells his funniest story late in the program as guest speaker at the 2015 Best of Preps banquet at the Chattanooga Convention Center.

By Mark Wiedmer June 2, 2015 5 min read

Photo Gallery

Cajun's Wharf–Farewell DJ Max!

John Michael gets to Cajuns with some friends to enjoy one of the last Big Swining Deck Parties of the summer.

Enjoying Cajun's on the first Thursday in August.

Anthony Mosely and Pam Isom enjoy a table on the patio.

Pam and Claire smile for SYNC as they celebrate Claire's birthday.

Randy Cowardin and Monica Campos enjoy a cool sip on the patio.

Lance Allen and Dan Slimer strike a pose.

Dawn Scott and Liz Massey come to Cajun's to wish DJ Max farewell!

DJ Chucky P making sure DJ Max is having a good time

Guitar player for Mr. Happy gets ready to perform

You'll miss Cajun's...but we'll miss you more!

Breezy and Chucky P show off some of their party favors.

Lauren and DJ Max share a "goodbye hug."

DJ Max gets support from friend Dawn Scott.

...AHHH, much better.
Rod, Jason and Polo smile for SYNC

...But not before DJ Max says his final goodbye to the Cajun's crowd!

DJ Max put on his last Cajun's show Thursday, August 2 before heading to VEGAS!

As Tiger Woods taught us, Lance Armstrong reaffirmed and Tom Brady needlessly underscored, it’s always dangerous placing famous athletes on pedestals.

That said, former Atlanta Brave and recently elected Hall of Famer John Smoltz’s appearance at this newspaper’s Best of Preps banquet at the Chattanooga Convention Center on Monday night should be a must-watch moment for everyone who couldn’t be there. And those who were there would be wise to revisit Smoltzie’s wisdom whenever possible.

More nominees

See more 2015 Best of Preps nominees.

2015 Best of Preps logo

To all those parents looking to ride their children’s athletic coattails to ridiculous riches, or at least a college scholarship, by pushing them too hard and toward a single sport, Smoltz said: