It seemed like a good time to write this, on the occasion of American Ninja Warrior being nominated for its first Emmy. I have been watching American Ninja Warrior since it's inception, or even before then. First as Sasuke, then G4's dubbed version (the original Ninja Warrior), then sending Americans to Japan to participate and eventually transforming into the American Ninja Warrior we all know and love.

Every step of the way, I have been inspired by these warriors. But not just for their drive, their commitment and their physical prowess, though all are laudable traits and inspiring ones. What I have loved and been inspired by the most, from the very first day, was the sense of teamwork and camaraderie. From the excellent example set by the first Sasuke champions to the most recent episode, there is one thing that has not changed a bit - the love and respect each of these warriors has for the game and for each other.

Where else can you see people rooting for those who could beat them and remove them from competition? Where else can you see people competing for a million dollars cheering for the people who might take that money from their own hands? Nowhere. And while it was somewhat of a boys club for years, it is now the single best example of a televised sport that incorporates men and women equally and holds them to the same standards.

The simple truth is this - American Ninja Warrior is unlike any other sport. It is teaching the youth of America that you can be friends with people and compete against them at the same time. It is teaching them they can excel if they put the work in. It is teaching them that men and women can be equals. Truly equals. Not the equality of having a team for men and a team for women. That's not equality and never has been. I mean the equality of men and women being on the same team and doing the same work.

Recently, I've made some positive changes in my life and I can not say that American Ninja Warrior was the only reason, but I can tell you it was a huge one. And every day, when I feel like I might give up or give in, I look at the tweets between these warriors and their fans - children and adults, boys and girls and wannabe Ninjas like me. I see the videos where little girls are believing in themselves and climbing ropes. I see handicapped children looking up to those warriors who may be missing a limb but don't let it slow them down, seeing in their heroes a future where they aren't limited by their differences. And then I'm inspired all over again.

I am just one person, but there are millions like me. We are realizing that we are more than we ever thought we could be. Because of a TV show. And if that doesn't deserve a damn Emmy, tell me what does.