2005 Year in Review

School Sports: It’s a Game, Not a War

Source: Paul McKnight, Extension Unit Educator, Youth Development, knightmc@uiuc.edu

When asked before Buffalo's fourth Super Bowl (after three previous defeats) whether the game was a "must win," Hall of Fame football coach Marv Levy replied, "World War II was a must win."

"When it comes to school sports, we need to remember that it's a game, not a war," says Paul McKnight, University of Illinois Extension youth development educator. "Time and time again, we've seen disgraceful, unsportsmanlike behavior by team members, coaches, parents and fans. Sure a game loss is tough, but it's certainly not a major catastrophe."

As teachers, coaches, youth group leaders, parents and fans, we need to use athletics to help young people develop values of integrity, fairness and respect. We need to reinforce the message that good character, sportsmanship, and ethics are honorable, and that victory attained any other way is unworthy.

Tips for Parents of Student Athletes

- Remember that children participate in sports for their own enjoyment, not yours.
- Be a good role model.
- Show your child that hard work and effort can matter more than victory.
- Never yell at your child for making a mistake or for the team losing a game.
- Do not publicly question the judgment or integrity of a referee or coach.
- Show respect to all involved.
- Praise your kids as well as their teammates and opponents just for participating, regardless of their athletic skills. Applaud good plays made by all team members.
- Be proud of your student athlete regardless of outcome.
- Do not provide instruction during the game. That is the coach's job.
- Do not embarrass your child. People don't always remember the final score---but they always remember the fan in section E who made a fool out of himself or herself.

by  Editor, theCity1.com
November 14, 2005