Sports are MEANT to be FUN! Often times because of our competitive natures, we - as parents, coaches and players - can forget that sports are FUN. We sometimes forget FUN when our kids fall short of lofty expectations. We sometimes forget FUN when an athlete isn't picking up a technique or move we try to teach them. We sometimes forget FUN when our team can't seem to win a game. This past week I caught glimpses of practices for our elementary age sports - flag football, volleyball and soccer. Seeing them reminded me of something I heard former Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong say: "Never forget your beginner's spirit!"
A beginner's spirit is full of energy and enthusiasm. It's the spirit that's willing to learn. It's the spirit that's willing to put forth a strong effort. Above all, it's the spirit that wants to be with friends and has FUN. Since this is grade school sports, there is still a wonderful teaching opportunity for both coaches AND athletes to do new and wonderful things. Coaches and parents can help encourage a beginner's spirit in their athletes by challenging them to make each other better players. Athletes can tap into their beginner's spirit and help their teammates develop their skills in practice by always giving their best effort and by challenging their teammates to do the same. It's more FUN when you work together as a team.
Print | posted @ Friday, September 11, 2009 3:30 PM