Is Your Character Strong

How healthy is your player's character?

In today's competitive youth sports environment, it's easy to rush from one event to the next. With our busy schedules, keeping track of your player's character development is essential. In our quest to fit everything in, we often overlook the most important reason for encouraging them to play in the first place.

We want them to participate in sports because these activities build character. However, sports themselves don't inherently teach character; they require physical effort and skill executed according to rules. When someone is caught cheating, there are consequences, but nothing happens if they are not detected. Sports continue without remorse. It's how we navigate our experiences in sports that shapes our character. The decisions we make in sports play a significant role in developing who we are.

These experiences can be both positive and negative. Indeed, sports can sometimes foster poor character. For example, the desire to win at all costs might lead some to justify bending the rules for a competitive advantage. Conversely, that same desire can inspire athletes to accept disadvantages in competition for a greater reward: the satisfaction of winning with integrity.

Prioritizing the health of your player's character could be your most impactful investment in their life. Their future quality of life may depend on it.