Participating in sports is supposed to be fun.
Many of us can drift back in time to a specific playing field or
gymnasium where we learned an important lesson or two on life.
The thrill of competition, true sportsmanship, respect for
others and yourself, developing your mind and body in a safe and
healthy way are just some of what can be learned within a sport or
game.
Participating in sports is supposed to be fun.
Many of us can drift back in time to a specific playing field or gymnasium where we learned an important lesson or two on life.
The thrill of competition, true sportsmanship, respect for others and yourself, developing your mind and body in a safe and healthy way are just some of what can be learned within a sport or game.
Many of us can also remember a certain coach who made a difference, someone who took the time to teach and listen. Sometimes that person saved a life at that time or down the line.
Coaching a team takes dedication and devotion to a sport and, more important, to its players.
There has been some heated controversy about our local Pop Warner football league recently.
We have advice for those on both sides of the ball: Go back to the fundamentals.
Coaches should do their best to play as many kids as possible. Winning at all costs at an amateur youth level is ridiculous and harmful.
If that is your coaching philosophy, join a fantasy league and get off the real field. Or keep this in mind when deciding who or how many should play: Michael Jordan was cut from his junior high basketball team.
On the other hand, parents who can only see as far as their son or daughter should put themselves in the coach’s sneakers.
The rules only allow for a certain number of players in a game for a predetermined amount of time. And, within reason, you do try to win.
Unless mandated by league rules, playing everyone for the exact same amount of time is difficult if not impossible. And not everyone can play quarterback or be the starting pitcher.
Plus, would you invest as much time as the coach does? Or do you show up just to complain, second guess and then go home?
Pop Warner coaches, players and their parents – and those of all youth sports – should get a standing ovation for their energy and commitment.
Just remember to play by the rules and be as fair as you possibly can.
Don’t ruin the future memories of our young people and their involvement in sports.
