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Playing to WIN! / $ Give-Away! $

August 29, 2011 By Laura 124 Comments

sports_text1


Yes. Here I am talking about Basketball and such already and the new season has not even begun yet! But honestly, you DO want to bear with me. Today there’s a whole new spin to the perspectives and purpose of this post. I’d love for you all to give it a read, and then join in with your thoughts & experiences, regarding your kid’s sports. In the end, you and I can both win. ; )

 

Growing up as a kid, I was never really involved in any kind of organized sports. Neither was my husband, in his childhood.  Sometimes as a kid, in my free time, I played tennis against the school wall down the street, or my brothers and I played basketball in the drive way.  It was more of the ‘Around the World’ type of basketball, rather than any real 1-on-1. The only ones who took a beating, were the Hosta plants that lined the single lane driveway! I have memories of my Dad pitching a wiffle ball to me too, because I really loved to hit, and I wasn’t half bad! He’d even go get the ball, only to pitch it to me again, over and over.  But that was the extent of my sports. I was really more of the artist type. I spent most of my time drawing, painting, and (closet) singing, right through high school.  Going to art school was my plan right from Kindergarten, and when I graduated from high school, that’s just what I did.

So no one was more surprised than I was, to find I was going to be ‘one of those sports moms’. You know the kind.  The ones who are always on the sidelines, really into the game, screaming her head off the whole time? That would be me.

I remember the day I realized it too. Things had just begun in that little school gym, where I had brought my daughter {A}, and I immediately found myself out of my seat, hootin’, hollarin’, cheering, and shouting out instructional tips. I was all hyped up with excitement and adrenaline, and apparently making a little scene, because the coaches and all of the kids, kept looking at me with an amused expression.  Maybe, because it was just the first practice of this basketball season, for my first child’s, first practice, and first sport, ever.  I was the one and only spectator there, as all of the other parents had dropped their kids off.

1_2006_

(2006)

That was six years ago, when {A} was just 8 years old.  It was the beginning of a whole new experience, for all of us, as a family. The first reward we found in sports, was that it was another activity we enjoyed together. She really loved playing, and you could always find the other 5 of the 6 of us in the bleachers, cheering her and her team on. Her little siblings were a cheer section of their own!  Her Dad commentated quietly, often explaining to me what he thought just happened. And then there was me; the loudest of us all.

2_2007_

(2007)

We never doubted {A} would have a good time playing on a team.  She was always that kind of kid, who had fun no matter what she was doing.  She was a ‘people person’, who approached and befriended others easily. You know, very SOCIAL, even though she was a home schooled kid.  😉 To this day, people ask us if she is ever not smiling. But I’d always taught her, it was important to do her best, no matter what. I never followed the line of thinking with sports, that ‘as long as we have fun, that’s what matters.’ No!! We’re here to WIN!! Aren’t we? It’s great to enjoy it, but her team was counting on her to give it all she had, and so was I. She was probably an average player to start, being new not only to the game, but a year late into it, as opposed to her other girls who played the year prior. But, she was well-liked, and committed to her team.  Her biggest downfall was her heart on the court; she felt bad taking the ball away from even a player on the opposing team. ; ) We had a few chats about that, but otherwise, it was a great first and second season for her, as she learned the rules, in and outs of the game, through weekly practices and games. We all learned along with her, listening to instruction, and those ear-piercing whistle blows.

She was still working on refining all of her skills. Especially with her new physical self; she had grown 5 inches in the past year!

2_2009

3_2009_

(2009)

As she got a little older, we saw things start to change in her a little bit.  She was getting on the other side of that awkward growth spurt. She was all knees and elbows, for a bit there. She had learned a lot more about the game, and so did we. Basketball had become a regular part of our lives, every cold season, as we got her to her practices, and watched more intently than ever, at her games.  She was practicing off the court more, her focus was better, her determination was stronger, and all of the skills she had acquired were starting to come together. I was enjoying seeing her thrive, and had become more maniacal than ever, at her games.  For perspective, I often leave a game with a throat that is torn up, and a new hair-do. ; )

She was still her happy-go-lucky self.  But she was more serious about every game.  We started having post-game talks on the way home, about the great plays, or ones she could have done better or differently.

4_2010_

(2010)

Then we hit a real milestone.  One might call it a ‘game changer’.  As more serious as she was about the game, she was still used to being on friendly terms with every coach she had had. One they all could joke with, and have fun.  But this new coach this one year, was alllll business. He wasn’t there to make friends, or waste his time. She didn’t like how he didn’t have a light-humored side.  She didn’t like how he demanded the girls do things a very certain and different way.  His way, as she saw it. She didn’t like that he was yelling angrily out onto the court at the girls, by name. (including his own daughter.)  She didn’t like a lot of things about this year. He drove the girls, hard. And he rubbed her sunny-disposition, the wrong way.

But I thought this coach this particular year, was a great thing, and I told her why:  Because it was a perfect lesson on LIFE. She was going to get a job someday, and not necessarily like how her boss does things. Or even her BOSS, for that matter. But she’d still need to do her job, follow instructions, be a team player, and respect the authority. Yes, when the time was right, she could re-evaluate things, and choose to seek a new job, more to her liking. But she had to complete the project she was committed to, just as she had to stay on this team and play the year out, just as she had committed to. It was going to be good for her, to work with someone she found very difficult.  It would help develop her character; teaching her the skills of tolerance, patience, obedience, and strength. She’d need to adjust. It would be a rough road for her, and I had every intention of being there for her, with some tough love. But she had to push herself through it.

She stuck the year out. Not always happily, especially in the beginning. But she learned to deal with it all quickly. She learned to relate to the coach, on his terms.  And I was right.  By year’s end, she was a new player. She had grown so much, as a person, had new found skills, and had developed in so many ways, more than she ever had, more a than any other year. Through the difficult year, both physically and mentally, she had changed a lot.  By leaps and bounds. She had gained stamina, and a more mature perspective. She found her drive.  She had found her aggression, in a big way, on the court!  She was going for that ball, no matter who on the opposing team had it, and she would fight to hold onto it to the floor.  She wasn’t one to mess with, anymore.

She had become a real athlete.

And when the last game that year had just been played, she was the only girl who went up to her coach, and said, “Thank you, for coaching me all year. I learned a lot from you.”

6_2010 As a sports mom, I had become concerned about more than just getting her here and there, or where ever she needed to be.  I had learned how to give her all she needed, as an athlete.  I wanted to be sure she always had the energy and hydration, come practice or game time. That meant making sure she always ate right, and ate the right things, at the right times. And to keep the fluids going down. I wanted to make sure I kept her strong, and healthy!  An injury was the last thing I wanted for her.

5_

Basketball was the sport she’d always been involved with.  But she’d learned to throw a mean football, at 5 years old.  It was something she and her Daddy did a lot in the yard. Of course the older and bigger she got, the better she became.  On the court, old basketball coaches could not even believe how tall she had gotten. There was a 2 year span where she had grown a total of 8 1/2 inches!  That was really helping her game.  But she was also growing more and more interested in football.  She loved watching the games on tv, and was intent on playing Flag Football.  One clinic with Coach Greg, and she was hooked.

7_2011_1b

(2011)

Her last year on the town’s team, was an incredible one for her.

8_2011_2b

(2011)

She was so sad to have outgrown the league, but she went out with a bang!

She had come a long, long way, in the 6 years she had played. She worked hard with the basketball, even off the court, developing skills you don’t often see in a player that age. Never mind a girl. She had learned to dribble with her knees!  She was passionate about basketball, and it showed.  Especially to those who noticed these things.

She was encouraged by current and former coaches, to go for the public South High School team. She wanted to play for them, badly.  And so I had every intention of being sure she had that chance to play for them, even though she was home schooled. I understood she’d have to pass try-outs. But I had heard making the team, or actually playing, could be…challenging, for home schoolers.  I’d cross that bridge when I got to it, if it ever proved to be a problem.

9_basketball

But that time was not here yet.  She had her heart set on making it onto the town’s spring Flag Football league, before she grew out of the age range.

Of course, she had to make the team, first. And that she did. Her former coach (Greg) knew her the second she walked into the try-outs, and her place on a team was practically automatic. ALL of the coaches were there to observe, taking notes for drafting the players they wanted.  The most unlikeliest of coaches drafted her first, based on observing the reaction of Coach Greg when she walked in, and then watching her tryout.

She played, and was the only girl in the whole league!  She wasn’t treated any differently than the boys.  And she didn’t play any differently, either. She was an unexpected force to be reckoned with.  She was passionate about Flag Football now, too. She just loved playing the game. And it showed.

11_2011_2ff

(2011)

Just as with Basketball, we were on the sidenlines, making some noise, for her and her team!  As if my big long camera lens didn’t draw enough attention to myself, screaming my head off half the time did!  I just couldn’t help myself. Michael and I had a game, to see how long I could be quiet.  The excitement and anticipation at times, was more than I could contain. We found sports to be a rush like no other.  I had felt my own competitive streak come alive that very first practice she had, at 8 years old, and it was clearly in her blood too. She helped take her Flag Football team all the way to the Superbowl, where they lost by 1-single-point!  It was a hard pill to swallow.  It was a fluke, actually!  But we were busy digging up the grace we needed, to be good sports about it. ; )

12_018

(2011)

After all, she had to be a good example, to her biggest little triplet fans, who were so very inspired by their big sister.

She was a STAR, in their eyes, and about to try making a mark of their own, in sports.

13_serve_sb3

(2011)

High School Basketball is a few months away yet, but I had started making contact with the powers that be, real early, and she found herself at a Volleyball clinic twice a week, at the public South High School. She quickly fell in love with this sport too, and they quickly took notice of her.  It was nothing short of boot camp.  But she kept going back, and they were impressed she did, and were happy to see her. Her potential coach said to us, “The biggest sign of a true athlete, is not just skills, but being tough. And she IS. She’s got that.”

Try-outs for the public South High School Volleyball team are coming up, and she’ll be there ready to show her stuff.  She’s been training on her own. I can say it’s looking promising, and a very busy year, with 3 kids in sports anyway. Maybe 4.

14_hydrating_

(2011)

{A} has her dreams and goals, short & long term,  and she’ll always work hard to reach them. She has high standards for herself, anyway.

But even if she didn’t, she always has me to push her. ; ) 

To me, being so involved in sports, and having such passions for it, has proved to be full of benefits, skills, and gifts, and a truly effective way to pave the way, to play the game of life!  If sports doesn’t literally take {A} where she wants to go, it will certainly have given her all she needs on the inside, to get there on her own.

She’s the picture of young athletes all over the world, just like her. If you’re a parent of an athlete-in-the-making, or one who is already, this is your lucky day. I’m giving away a:

$100.00 Dick’s Sporting Goods Gift Card!!
(We’re sorry -This Giveaway has now ended.)

dicks-300x157

One way you can have a chance to win, is to tell me:

In what ways do you see your kids playing sports, as preparing them for the game of life?

****

Rules:

No duplicate comments.

You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry
methods:

a) Leave a comment in response to my sweepstakes prompt question on this post

b) Tweet about this promotion and leave the URL to that tweet in a comment
on this post

c) Blog about this promotion and leave the URL to that post in a comment on
this post

d) For those with no Twitter or blog, read the official rules to learn about
an alternate form of entry.

And if that’s not enough, there are additional ways to win a gift card to Dick’s Sporting Good here: Promotions & Prizes section

This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older.

Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail.

(I will also announce the winner via our Facebook Page and our Twitter.)

The Sweepstakes Dates are:  8/29 – 9/30 (Now ended.)

You have 72 hours to get back to me, otherwise a new winner will be selected.

The Official Rules are available here: Visit the Official Rules.

GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONE!

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Filed Under: Giveaways, Life In General, Parenting, Reviews & Sponsors, The Big Picture Tagged With: Gatorade, giveaways, Parenting, youth-athletics, youth-sports

Comments

  1. 1
    Gail W says:
    September 30, 2011 at 10:21 pm

    Kids learn to work as a team which will be important in the workplace.

    Reply
  2. 0
    Donna B. says:
    September 30, 2011 at 7:23 pm

    It teaches them teamwork and cooperation.

    Reply
  3. -1
    Sarah L says:
    September 30, 2011 at 7:14 pm

    http://twitter.com/#!/slehan/status/119912974138867712

    Reply
  4. -2
    Sarah L says:
    September 30, 2011 at 7:13 pm

    No kids, but I believe that it should be fun to do sports.
    Thanks for the contest.

    Reply
  5. -3
    Stacy says:
    September 30, 2011 at 6:21 pm

    Sports teach kids how to work as a team, how to win graciously and lose graciously, and how to have fun while being active.

    Reply
  6. -4
    R Hicks says:
    September 30, 2011 at 6:19 pm

    tweet
    http://twitter.com/#!/brich2222/status/119898865385226240
    brich22 at earthlink dot net

    Reply
  7. -5
    R Hicks says:
    September 30, 2011 at 6:18 pm

    SPorts of all kinds are so important. They build self esteem and teach to be competitive

    brich22 at earthlink dot net

    Reply
  8. -6
    lilshuga2001 says:
    September 30, 2011 at 5:09 pm

    I wish my parents had me in sports, while growing up….
    I dont have any kids, but when I do, I am putting them in team sports so get them active and know what its like to be part of a team 🙂

    Reply
  9. -7
    Joanne Schultz says:
    September 30, 2011 at 4:57 pm

    tweet- http://twitter.com/#!/js22222222/status/119878027277635585

    Reply
  10. -8
    Joanne Schultz says:
    September 30, 2011 at 4:56 pm

    It’s important for your kids to learn to be part of a team. What better way, than in sports!
    Thanks for the giveaway!

    Reply
  11. -9
    Geoff K says:
    September 30, 2011 at 4:41 pm

    Tweet: http://twitter.com/#!/guettel78/status/119874307710136320

    Reply
  12. -10
    Geoff K says:
    September 30, 2011 at 4:40 pm

    Sports definitely teach kids the value of teamwork, strength, perseverance, communication skills, anger management, and poise under pressure, all of which are skills that they can get a lot of use out of in their professional and personal lives as they get older!

    gkaufmanss at yahoo dot com

    Reply
  13. -11
    Amy DeLong says:
    September 30, 2011 at 2:54 pm

    playing sports is teaching my kids how to get along with all types of people and therefore helping them in life
    ardelong2(at)gmail(dot)com

    Reply
  14. -12
    Tesa Shelton says:
    September 30, 2011 at 2:44 pm

    I believe sports teach you just about everything you need to know for life. If you don’t practice, you don’t play. You can’t just want in and get everything handed to you, you have to earn it, or it isn’t worth it. Always be a good sport. If you win, don’t brag about it. Shake your opponents hand. If you lose, don’t cry about it. Shake your opponents hand, and like they say, there is no “I” in team, and you must learn to work together with others to succeed.

    Reply
  15. -13
    Erica C. says:
    September 30, 2011 at 1:32 pm

    Sports are a great way for kids to build social skills, realize how important team work can be, and also learn the meaning of fighting with all you have.

    Reply
  16. -14
    Jaque R. says:
    September 30, 2011 at 12:44 pm

    Sports prepare my children for life by learning group cooperation, self-motivation, to realize you can’t win every time and to be gracious in defeat as well as when winning. 🙂 Thank you.

    Reply
  17. -15
    Happi Shopr says:
    September 30, 2011 at 12:05 pm

    I think sports gives them disciple, teaches them hard work and team work.

    Reply
  18. -16
    Crystal F says:
    September 30, 2011 at 9:22 am

    I really see it as helping them work together with others. I think it teaches them that it’s okay to need help and to ask for it. I also think it teaches them to do their best at everything they try. Thank you!

    Reply
  19. -17
    susan smoaks says:
    September 30, 2011 at 9:08 am

    playing sports is a way to prepare for the game of life because in life there will be disappointments but when you keep getting back up and trying again you will eventually have success

    Reply
  20. -18
    Kandi Smith says:
    September 30, 2011 at 8:10 am

    Sports teaches my kids hard work, determination, perserverence, social interaction skills, and sportsmanship. It gives them a sense of self-achievement, pride in themselves, and an interest in their health, making them less likely to follow other students into bad behavioral choices.

    Reply
  21. -19
    Erin from Long Island says:
    September 30, 2011 at 5:43 am

    tweeted

    https://twitter.com/#!/erunuevo/status/119708206875418624

    Reply
  22. -20
    Erin from Long Island says:
    September 30, 2011 at 5:42 am

    I have always said….there is always someone better and always someone worse than you. It is how you handle that that matters!

    Reply
  23. -21
    mistysunrise says:
    September 30, 2011 at 5:20 am

    tweet

    http://twitter.com/#!/MistySunrise/status/119703151308845056

    itsjustme62613 at gmail.com

    Reply
  24. -22
    mistysunrise says:
    September 30, 2011 at 5:19 am

    What I see that it teaches her, is to be a team player. It also teaches her, that even that she doesnt always win, she should enjoy playing the game.

    itsjustme62613 at gmail.com

    Reply
  25. -23
    Brittney House says:
    September 30, 2011 at 12:27 am

    I think my son playing basketball teaches him teamwork and how to work hard for what you want (a win)

    Reply
  26. -24
    tallcapp says:
    September 30, 2011 at 12:15 am

    It teaches how people who are quite different interact in a wonderful way to create a new whole–synergy.

    Reply
  27. -25
    Tabathia B says:
    September 29, 2011 at 11:31 pm

    tweet
    http://twitter.com/#!/ChelleB36/status/119615109931872256
    tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com

    Reply
  28. -26
    Tabathia B says:
    September 29, 2011 at 11:31 pm

    That it’s preparing them to be a team player and it’s about doing your best
    tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com

    Reply
  29. -27
    Maria Gabriel says:
    September 29, 2011 at 11:21 pm

    sports teams focus on dependability, confidence,dedication and sportsmanship; all of which are key to succeeding in life. in youth athletics its definitely more about the core values being instilled in our youngsters early to get a good headstart on life, it’s not all about the trophies!

    Reply
  30. -28
    julieh says:
    September 29, 2011 at 11:15 pm

    tweet:http://twitter.com/#!/honeypie411/status/119611156619988992

    Reply
  31. -29
    julieh says:
    September 29, 2011 at 11:14 pm

    I teach them its not about winning but doing their personal best.

    Reply
  32. -30
    ANGEL JACKLYN says:
    September 29, 2011 at 11:01 pm

    2ND ENTRY TWEET @ http://twitter.com/#!/kytah00/status/119606890983456768 kytah00@yahoo.com

    Reply
  33. -31
    ANGEL JACKLYN says:
    September 29, 2011 at 11:01 pm

    TEACHING A CHILD TO “NEVER GIVE UP” IN SPORTS MAKES LIFE A LOT EASIER TO HANDLE DURING THOSE HARD, DEPRESSING TIMES WE ALL FACE! kytah00@yahoo.com

    Reply
  34. -32
    Jill L says:
    September 29, 2011 at 10:44 pm

    Tweeted http://twitter.com/#!/chipdip2010/status/119603408486416384

    Reply
  35. -33
    Jill L says:
    September 29, 2011 at 10:43 pm

    I see that it will help them see that they aren’t always going to come in first place. They will learn that life isn’t always fair. They’ll learn that mom and dad will always be there to give them hugs and help pick them up.

    Reply
  36. -34
    Lisa G. says:
    September 29, 2011 at 8:37 pm

    I Tweeted this giveaway: http://twitter.com/#!/lisalmg/status/119571221221351424
    lisalmg25 at gmail dot com

    Reply
  37. -35
    Lisa G. says:
    September 29, 2011 at 8:34 pm

    I think that playing sports helps my children prepare for the future because it teaches them that hard work pays off, that you might not always win but can have pride in your efforts and that being a good sport helps make others respect and like you.
    lisalmg25 at gmail dot com

    Reply
  38. -36
    Barbara says:
    September 29, 2011 at 3:28 pm

    You did a really great thing for your daughter! I do think sports helps kids learn to work together for a common goal even if there’s someone on the team (or a coach) you don’t like and of course that carries over to adulthood situations.

    3oink63moo484@gmail.com

    Reply
  39. -37
    Judith says:
    September 29, 2011 at 3:10 pm

    Blog http://sodahoney.blogspot.com/2011/09/welcome-to-go-to-guide-for-moms-of.html

    Reply
  40. -38
    Judith says:
    September 29, 2011 at 3:09 pm

    They team work, fair play, sportsmanship, hard work, loyalty, and I am sure lots more

    Reply
  41. -39
    Maria says:
    September 29, 2011 at 2:49 pm

    I teaches them not to give up, do their best, and work as a team.

    Reply
  42. -40
    Jenn S. says:
    September 29, 2011 at 1:19 pm

    Sports teach teamwork , discipline and that hard work pays off. All needed later in life.

    Reply
  43. -41
    angie says:
    September 29, 2011 at 12:31 pm

    I tweeted here: http://twitter.com/#!/FotoMacro/status/119448452802420736

    Reply
  44. -42
    angie says:
    September 29, 2011 at 12:30 pm

    Its a great way to let them know that everything is not handed to them and that there are losers and winners and that you can be a winner as an individual or as part of a group. I also hope that it teaches them that winning is not everything and that fun is the main goal in sports.

    Reply
  45. -43
    Heather says:
    September 29, 2011 at 7:12 am

    I tweeted. http://twitter.com/#!/heatherlaverne1/status/119368636937928704

    Reply
  46. -44
    Heather says:
    September 29, 2011 at 7:09 am

    Playing sports teaches the teamwork, patience, the art of being humble (hopefully) and can be extremely joyous. It teaches them to work hard for what they want, but to also except that they are not perfect and may not always win, and that is okay. That is life, you just pick your self up and try again.

    Reply
  47. -45
    Samantha says:
    September 28, 2011 at 11:25 pm

    Tweeted.

    http://twitter.com/#!/imaclutz89/status/119251296422338560

    Reply
  48. -46
    Samantha says:
    September 28, 2011 at 11:24 pm

    Playing sports helps them deal with defeat at times. They realize they will win some and lose some, just as it is in life.

    Reply
  49. -47
    Shelley Mitchell says:
    September 28, 2011 at 2:25 pm

    Me and my husbands coach our kids teams. So teamwork and sportsmanship is very important. You have to learn to win well and to loose well.

    msjem2001 at yahoo dot com

    Reply
  50. -48
    MelissaO says:
    September 27, 2011 at 11:37 pm

    I didn’t play team sports growing up and I think I missed out on something big. My husband has played soccer since the time he could walk, and I think that I’d want to teach our kids about sports through him. I love soccer because it’s cheap, easy, and accesible to all. I think that it’d teach them about stamina and sportsmanship.

    wolverina401 at gmail dot com

    Reply
  51. -49
    Joyce Harrell says:
    September 27, 2011 at 9:37 am

    I think sports prepare children for winning and losing in life….the ups and the downs that will come their way. It also provides them a way to learn how to be a team player…that will definitely help them later in life.

    Reply
  52. -50
    ky2here says:
    September 26, 2011 at 7:54 pm

    http://twitter.com/#!/ky2here1/status/118473541908836353

    ky2here at msn dot com

    Reply
  53. -51
    ky2here says:
    September 26, 2011 at 7:53 pm

    They learn teamwork, practical expectations and how to handle success and defeat.

    ky2here at msn dot com

    Reply
  54. -52
    Karen Gonyea says:
    September 26, 2011 at 9:11 am

    I firmly believe that developing a love of sports at an early age helps children become active fit adults !!

    Reply
  55. -53
    Gina W says:
    September 24, 2011 at 11:44 pm

    Well I read this when you first posted and had to think about my answer. Then I kept forgetting to come back and enter! My boy hasn’t done much of playing on organized teams, but what I have seen him get out of sports so far is learning new skills, feeling successful and good about his accomplishments, and having FUN!

    Reply
  56. -54
    Annie says:
    September 24, 2011 at 9:52 pm

    Sports teach team work, leadership, and commitment.

    Reply
  57. -55
    Georgia says:
    September 24, 2011 at 10:40 am

    Tweeted here too

    http://twitter.com/#!/gmissycat/status/117607752758591488

    gmissycat at yahoo dot com

    Reply
  58. -56
    Georgia says:
    September 24, 2011 at 10:39 am

    That is an easy one. Sports don’t always turn out the way that you think they should and so is life. It’s not whether you win or lose but how you play the game is what matters.

    gmissycat at yahoo dot com

    Reply
  59. -57
    Linda Walton says:
    September 24, 2011 at 6:07 am

    Tweeted here!
    http://twitter.com/#!/nobimbo1/status/117540552597188608

    Reply
  60. -58
    Linda Walton says:
    September 24, 2011 at 6:05 am

    Playing sports teaches kids to never give up, the idea of teamwork, builds self-esteem, and teaches them to set goals!

    Reply
  61. -59
    Jenny says:
    September 21, 2011 at 11:43 pm

    They learn how to win, how to lose, how to work as a team… they’re awesome!

    Reply
  62. -60
    sandra says:
    September 21, 2011 at 3:42 pm

    i see them learning to be a team player

    Reply
  63. -61
    Jesika says:
    September 20, 2011 at 7:40 pm

    Tweet:
    https://twitter.com/#!/jesikalikesfree/status/116295473186349056

    Reply
  64. -62
    Jesika says:
    September 20, 2011 at 7:38 pm

    I feel that after years of competitive soccer tryouts, with both good and bad outcomes, my daughter is confident and able to handle rejection as well as enjoy real success. She might be just a little better equipted to handle job interviews and the rejection that they can include.

    Reply
  65. -63
    Selinda says:
    September 20, 2011 at 2:16 pm

    I see my son learning teamwork, sportsmanship and that he can’t always win!

    Thanks!

    Reply
  66. -64
    tracey byram says:
    September 20, 2011 at 11:21 am

    Sports teach children sportsmanship, strategy, setting personal goals and physical exercise.

    Reply
  67. -65
    Andrew Dankleff says:
    September 20, 2011 at 10:01 am

    by giving them an area to get out energy while learning to deal with other people

    Reply
  68. -66
    Tina M says:
    September 20, 2011 at 2:10 am

    http://twitter.com/#!/HappyTina0115/status/116031401178054656

    Reply
  69. -67
    Tina M says:
    September 20, 2011 at 2:09 am

    I see playing sports teaches my kids how to work as a team

    Reply
  70. -68
    Katherine G. says:
    September 20, 2011 at 12:45 am

    Sports teach discipline, exercise, humility, and graciousness

    Reply
  71. -69
    ashley says:
    September 20, 2011 at 12:29 am

    i believe it teaches team work and determination which is important in real life

    Reply
  72. -70
    Mary Beth Elderton says:
    September 19, 2011 at 9:13 pm

    My kid earned a 2nd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. I credit the discipline he learned there with his ability to set goals, focus, and his high level of achievement–he will graduate medical school with honors this coming May.

    Reply
  73. -71
    Helen Keeler says:
    September 19, 2011 at 6:22 pm

    tweeted: http://twitter.com/#!/helen1949/status/115913643618611200
    helenkeeler@comcast.net

    Reply
  74. -72
    Helen Keeler says:
    September 19, 2011 at 6:21 pm

    I see playing sports, as preparing my grandchildren for the game of life by teaching them to be a team player, to give it their all and to work for what they want.
    helenkeeler@comcast.net

    Reply
  75. -73
    Todd Teghtmeyer says:
    September 19, 2011 at 2:05 pm

    Tweet Tweet !

    http://twitter.com/#!/toddlovessweeps/status/115848892003782656

    toddlovessweeps at gmail.com

    Reply
  76. -74
    Todd Teghtmeyer says:
    September 19, 2011 at 2:04 pm

    Sports teaches my kids how to play on a team and be a good team member.

    toddlovessweeps at gmail.com

    Reply
  77. -75
    nanjhall says:
    September 19, 2011 at 11:15 am

    It teaches them how to handle winning and losing, getting along with others, following directions and teamwork. All things they will need to get along in this world.

    Reply
  78. -76
    Debra G says:
    September 19, 2011 at 10:45 am

    http://twitter.com/#!/guillenwins/status/115798606233075712

    Reply
  79. -77
    Debra G says:
    September 19, 2011 at 10:44 am

    Playing sports teaches them how to get along with different personalities and people from different backgrounds which is importatnt in life.

    Reply
  80. -78
    lyndsey says:
    September 19, 2011 at 10:40 am

    i see them learning good sportsmanship, which translates off the field with the way they treat their friends.

    Reply
  81. -79
    Kristin K says:
    September 19, 2011 at 9:52 am

    We’ve learned so much from playing sports. The boys have learned that they can’t just go out and play, but practice makes perfect. We have learned not only about being a team player, but also that watching the scoreboard is not the important part, but doing your best and having fun.

    Reply
  82. -80
    kay swederski says:
    September 18, 2011 at 4:41 pm

    I think playing in sports helps kids learn to get along with all kinds of different personalities.

    Reply
  83. -81
    Susan Chester says:
    September 16, 2011 at 12:31 am

    Sports teaches them to learn from their mistakes and to keep on trying.
    smchester at gmail dot com

    Reply
  84. -82
    Scott Martin says:
    September 14, 2011 at 2:53 pm

    My kids learn what it is to be a team from playing soccer. I see them growing every week.
    THANKS for the AWESOME GIVEAWAY!!!

    Scott Martin
    spmartin122 at gmail dot com

    Reply
  85. -83
    Janna Johnson says:
    September 12, 2011 at 11:02 pm

    learning to gracefully accept disappointment
    Thanks so much!! Janna Johnson jannajanna@hotmail.com janna@feedyourpig on gfc

    Reply
  86. -84
    Valerie Mabrey says:
    September 12, 2011 at 4:09 pm

    think it teaches them good conduct

    Reply
  87. -85
    Allison Wilson says:
    September 11, 2011 at 6:00 am

    I believe that sports teach kids about working hard to achieve goals, as well as teamwork!

    Reply
  88. -86
    Heather S says:
    September 11, 2011 at 1:34 am

    They learn to take the good with the bad and that you don’t always win and that is true in all parts of life

    Reply
  89. -87
    nicole says:
    September 10, 2011 at 11:28 pm

    I think sports help teach children collaboration and dedication. These are skills that they will use in life and future jobs.

    Reply
  90. -88
    Stephanie V. says:
    September 10, 2011 at 9:18 pm

    good sleep, nutrition and attitude whether win or lose — in life always
    tvollowitz at aol dot com

    Reply
  91. -89
    Cynthia C says:
    September 10, 2011 at 7:03 pm

    Tweet
    http://twitter.com/#!/clc408/status/112662099553030144

    Reply
  92. -90
    Cynthia C says:
    September 10, 2011 at 7:01 pm

    I think in lots of ways, sports are a metaphor for life. You learn that to succeed you must work for it and sometimes things don’t go as you planned.

    Reply
  93. -91
    Stacy says:
    September 10, 2011 at 1:51 pm

    tweet
    http://twitter.com/ohstac/statuses/112583868783140866
    nrdunningATgmailDOTcom

    Reply
  94. -92
    Stacy says:
    September 10, 2011 at 1:50 pm

    Playing sports helps kids be part of a team- an important aspect in the game of life (marriage, employment, etc). It also teaches good work ethic- you need to put in the work (training, practices) to see the results in the game.
    nrdunningATgmailDOtcom

    Reply
  95. -93
    Emily R. says:
    September 10, 2011 at 11:09 am

    Our older son is 5 years old & has autism. We are members on the YMCA & they have a special program for kids with disabilities call Full Circle. Full Circle has given our son the opportunity to take swimming lessons & now soccer. Participating in these sports has given him more confidence, made him more active & most of all, put a big smile on his face.

    mscoffee77(AT)juno(DOT)com

    Reply
  96. -94
    Sarah Hirsch says:
    September 10, 2011 at 10:57 am

    playing sports teaches kids about trying their hardest to do their best. it helps with teamwork, persistance and perseverance, and keeps them active and fit!

    Reply
  97. -95
    lisa says:
    September 10, 2011 at 10:41 am

    Blogged: http://insanityisforthelame.blogspot.com/2011/09/our-house-of-joyful-noise-blog-archive.html

    Reply
  98. -96
    lisa says:
    September 10, 2011 at 10:40 am

    Tweet: http://twitter.com/#!/flowergirl523/status/112535806324899841

    Reply
  99. -97
    lisa says:
    September 10, 2011 at 10:39 am

    It teaches them to be team players and the benefits of working hard.

    Reply
  100. -98
    Tari Lawson says:
    September 10, 2011 at 8:37 am

    I think it teaches them social skills and empathy.

    Reply
  101. -99
    SANDY says:
    September 9, 2011 at 11:23 pm

    I try to encourage him to be a team player.stay hydrated, rest properly

    Reply
  102. -100
    Adrienne Gordon says:
    September 9, 2011 at 7:56 pm

    It has taught them discipline and how to be a good sport.

    Reply
  103. -101
    Margaret Smith says:
    September 9, 2011 at 6:24 pm

    I tweeted: http://twitter.com/#!/peg42/status/112290005912793089
    Thanks
    rickpeggysmith(at)aol(dot)com

    Reply
  104. -102
    Margaret Smith says:
    September 9, 2011 at 6:22 pm

    As preparing my kids for life and in relation to sports, I think that by us encouraging them and praising them even if they loose, teaches them to do their best, but accept that loosing isn’t everything. It also teaches them how to be accepting and understanding of theirselves and others.
    Thanks so much.
    rickpeggysmith(at)aol(dot)com

    Reply
  105. -103
    Julie Brown says:
    September 9, 2011 at 4:08 pm

    http://twitter.com/#!/PLSvote4me/status/112255991642464256 tweeted by @plsvote4me

    Reply
  106. -104
    Julie Brown says:
    September 9, 2011 at 4:06 pm

    Sports prepares them for life by showing them the importance of leadership and team work. It helps them learn how to set and accomplish goals. It also shows them how staying active and fit will keep you strong and improve brain function.

    Reply
  107. -105
    Janice Whitaker says:
    September 9, 2011 at 2:32 pm

    Oh definately desipline and team work!
    whit1966@gmail.com

    Reply
  108. -106
    Jessie C. says:
    September 8, 2011 at 1:53 am

    http://twitter.com/#!/tcarolinep/status/111677970300678144

    Reply
  109. -107
    Jessie C. says:
    September 8, 2011 at 1:53 am

    I love sports and always consider it as a team work. By learning and enjoying the process, it’s a great and priceless lesson to prepare young kids for the game of life.

    Reply
  110. -108
    Elaine Nawiesniak says:
    September 7, 2011 at 9:33 am

    My kids don’t do sports per say, but they do compete as part of a high school marching band. Anyone who doesn’t think this qualifies as an athletic endeavor hasn’t watched these kids practice or seen them at a competition going head to head with other amazing bands! Being a part of any “team” whether it be a sports team or a cheer squad or marching band teaches discipline, commitment, time management, teamwork, leadership skills, perseverance, and how to deal with disappointment/loss. Each and every one of these skills are important for later life. Colleges recruit kids who are seriously involved in sports/band activities b/c they know that these kids have already learned much about what it takes to be successful in life.

    Reply
  111. -109
    Jeremy says:
    September 6, 2011 at 9:43 pm

    I played sports and my children are playing. I believe it teaches them patience, learning to practice something over and over, discipline, and to work with others.

    Reply
  112. -110
    nik says:
    September 6, 2011 at 2:44 pm

    One important lesson is to accept defeat…you don’t win every time, but you learn from it and get better next time. Another is to never give up…tenacity is incredibly important. Even if your goal is elusive, you keep going and trying, hopefully instilling your body and mind with new strategies and new ways of creative thinking.

    Reply
  113. -111
    Paula says:
    September 5, 2011 at 7:02 am

    I never played sports and it ruined me. I’m completely anti-social and hang out on the internet all day. My daughter loves softball, volleyball and dance. My son loves football. They both hunt and fish. I can safely say they will be much more ’rounded’ than me.

    Reply
  114. -112
    Susan Smith says:
    September 3, 2011 at 4:16 pm

    http://twitter.com/#!/susan1215/status/110081914936885248

    Reply
  115. -113
    Susan Smith says:
    September 3, 2011 at 4:16 pm

    Sports teaches kids how to work with others as a team, discipline, working towards a goal and learning how to deal with disappointment.

    Reply
  116. -114
    Elena says:
    September 2, 2011 at 9:52 pm

    tweet- http://twitter.com/#!/ElenaIstomina/status/109805589806325760

    Reply
  117. -115
    Elena says:
    September 2, 2011 at 9:50 pm

    I think sports helps kids to learn how to be a part of a team and how to work hard to achieve your goals.

    Reply
  118. -116
    Kala says:
    September 2, 2011 at 6:43 pm

    Playing sports teaches kids about discipline, team work, hard work, working towards goals and to practice their craft.

    Reply
  119. -117
    Amanda Sakovitz says:
    September 2, 2011 at 2:25 pm

    http://twitter.com/#!/aes529/status/109693493894590464

    Reply
  120. -118
    Amanda Sakovitz says:
    September 2, 2011 at 2:25 pm

    playing sports prepared kids for jobs and careers by showing them that sometimes things are not going to always go their way, by showing them teamwork and dedication

    Reply
  121. -119
    Mami2jcn says:
    September 2, 2011 at 8:05 am

    tweet-http://twitter.com/#!/mami2jcn/status/109597444068745217

    Reply
  122. -120
    Mami2jcn says:
    September 2, 2011 at 8:04 am

    I think sports teaches them how to work as a team, which is important in today’s workplace and will be in the future.

    Reply
  123. -121
    Joanne Ross says:
    August 30, 2011 at 1:50 pm

    I was the oldest and only girl in my family having three younger brothers. I grew up playing, and watching sports. I was a tom boy and never was into that whole girly thing. Being the mother of 5 kids who were all very unique in their own way the one thing that I instilled in them consistently was the love of sports! My oldest son Ryan started to play baseball when he was six or seven and one of the funniest memories I have of Ryan playing baseball behind Southampton Rd School in Westfield at on of his first practices was him being out in the outfield (left field so to speak) not paying attention to the game what so ever to the game but scooping up dirt into his glove and having the time of his life watching it fly all around him! Me being the freak mother I was mortified that he was not pay attention! When he entered the 4th grade he started football (which he followed in the foot steps of his Uncle Mike who he so admired!) His love and dedication for the sport was like nothing I have ever seen. To this day I believe a strong part of who Ryan is and the work ethic he has today comes from all the time spent on the football field. We moved to Belchertown when Ryan was finishing the 6th grade and the town did not have a football team. So he decided to try soccer. Which he picked up easily as he was a natural athlete. Although he suffered a broken ankle playing soccer which he never was injured playing football? When he entered the 9th grade Belchertown HS started a football team. The first year all they really did was play scrimmages then starting in 10th they played games that counted and traveled to other HS. His senior year he and his team had an undefeated season and won the HS super bowl! One of the proudest moments in my life but more importantly his!

    Nicole who was the “girly girly” daughter that I so was not, was not so into the sports thing. She was a dancer and started at the age of 2 and went on until the 7th grade. She was so cute out there shaking her little booty and introducing me to something I never pictured my self doing sitting through the 5 hour recital crying like a baby watching my little girls 2 minutes of fame up on the stage! When Nicole went into the Williston Northampton School she was required to play a sport each semester and for a girly girly I give her all the credit and for getting out there and trying new things. She played soccer, basketball, lacrosse which she realized were not her thing. She ran cross country which she loved and also found a love in the sport tennis which she still enjoys today!

    Luke and Hannah my little Irish twins being so close in age, I signed them up for things together. We started with a mommy and me gymnastics. Then when they got to school age they got into soccer. They both have a love for the sport and had to be evaluated this past year to be placed on a team! They both ended up on great teams which are perfect fit for them. I swore that I was going to be a calm parent on the side lines and not yell and scream and that worked out pretty good until their first games! Luke has recently gotten into lacrosse which his uncle Mike coaches and he was able to go to camp at Tufts University this past summer and learn so many new skills. He developed such a love for thee sport. Which I know nothing about so I look forward to learning with him! He is always laughing at me when I try to ask him about certain moves and their names.

    To sum this all up I think sports are a vital part in a child’s up bring. It keeps them moving and keeps them healthy. It helps them develop new friendships and most importantly it helps them how to win and loose gracefully which will help them be successful in their lives!

    I hope you enjoyed reading this it was a nice trip down memory lane for me!

    God Bless,

    Joanne

    Reply
  124. -122
    Pam says:
    August 29, 2011 at 9:18 pm

    My three older kids are involved in sports and have been since they were 5. Each year has been different for them but, overall, they learn to get along with others and to work together toward a common goal. This is a skill they will need in the workforce often. They also learn to support others, even when they are not making the key plays to win. As adults, it is important to understand how to help others along the way and not be too focused on yourself. Working as members of a team has helped to instill that. Finally, the fact that winnning isn’t everything has been a major lesson. Knowing that being a good sport is far more important than being a star. In their adult lives, I hope they transfer that to being good people and making good choices along the way.

    Reply

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