Citizenship and Asset Building Through Athletics - Question 2
Which of the assets and citizenship characteristics
are likely to be developed or reinforced in a good quality program that
goes beyond teaching sports specific strategies and skills?A
high quality athletic experience goes beyond teaching the skills and
strategies and how to win in a sport. In this environment, five
additional assets and four of the citizenship qualities could be
naturally promoted and reinforced.
Assets:
- Young
person receives support from three or more non-parent adults. Coaches
in our society are powerful and influential role models to young people
who place importance on sports. Often, coaches are one of the most
significant adults in a athlete's life next to his or her parents.
- School
provides a caring, encouraging environment. Athletes are often a place
where students feel supported and encouraged. Some students may even
stay in school when they are not succeeding well academically because
they get encouragement and support from their coaches and teammates.
- Parent(s)
and other adults model positive, responsible behavior. Coaches can be
an additional positive role model for young people, and – in some cases
– show more positive and responsible behavior than is demonstrated in
the student's home or community.
- Young person is
actively engaged in learning. Even though athletics present an
additional time commitment, some athletes report they do better
academically during their athletic season. This may be due to the
reinforcement for academics they receive from their coach, or to the
increased need for time-management and organization during the season.
- Young
person cares about his or her school. Because of their extra commitment
to co-curricular activities, athletes can become bonded to their team.
This bond is often extended to their school and community.
