Participation Awards

Participation Awards…..

Hmmmm…..the magical question on whether or not our kids are deserving of a trophy or ribbon…..just for participating!

Well, I won’t dance around this one!

I’ve coached my daughter in softball for 5 years…..junior high volleyball for a season…..and assistant for junior high basketball.

And my son, well I’ve coached him in baseball for 4 years, and now in travel ball…..basketball for a season….and soccer for a season.

Back in the day, many of us growing up didn’t receive awards for “participating”

Personally, as each season begins, I share with the parents that I will not participate in getting the kids trophies or plaques for playing the game. If they want their kid to receive an award of some sort…..each parent should create the time to work with their kids at home to hone their abilities in the game they are playing.

“Well Eddie…..I don’t have the time.”

“Little Bobby’s ‘self-esteem’ will improve if he knows he’s getting a trophy or plaque at the end of the season” (FYI–I never coached a kid named Bobby)

Why would you not want your child to put in the work to grow….improve….and learn how to face adversity?

And when life hits us in the mouth….have you been prepared by the little lessons in life to teach you how to deal with life as a whole when things go wrong?

Truth is as I’ve sat down with kids and have shared the same thoughts, the reception has been great.

Really Eddie???

To tell a child that if he wants a trophy or plaque….that together they have to earn it by improving their own personal skills, but more important…..learn how to come together to play a team sport…..that is rewarding!

It is earned…..Not given.

And when this takes place…..now tell a kid he/she can’t do anything.

They put in the work to reap the reward…..they can do it again

And if they fell short, they will find if the hunger or passion for the game is truly there.

And how you play the game will carry over to life in your relationships, career, health, and contribution to society.

A reward earned teaches one to fight through adversity and challenges….which is exactly the type of man I want my daughter to marry and raise my grand kids…..and the type of man I am trying to lead my son to be.

I’ve seen my son accept an award for participating……Then receive an award for earning a second place trophy (earned)…..the results and reactions are two opposites.

Well…..enough is enough…..

Time to get to the episode!

Blessings!!

~~Eddie

 

 

 

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