LEADERSHIP Elevate the Game | Page 27

The bottom line is, get the rule over your tongue and get control of your mind. We must break the cycle or it can become a negative behavior that’s passed from generation to generation. What is name calling anyway? It is an attempt to remind someone of their weaknesses in order to get their attention. If you have to resort to these types of tactics to make the playing field even, then it really demonstrates your inferiority not theirs. Unfortunately, doing anything to win has become an accepted mantra in sports. If you’re cheating to win at any cost, guess what? Your children are watching. What about morality, integrity, loyalty to the fairness of the game, and trust? Let’s clean up the game. One of the best ways to develop stronger athletes is to institute a “no fear” policy as it relates to players playing the game and players asking coaches questions about the game. There should be no question that a player is not allowed to ask the coach. And if the coach doesn’t have the answer immediately, it is their job to get back to that child in a given period of time with an answer. By doing so, they will also teach the players how to ask questions and how get their needs met. I am reminded of the story of David and Goliath. Goliath the giant represents fear. He bullied the opposing army with his imposing size and intimidating tactics. Giants need to be slayed. David used his mind to slay. He wasn’t persuaded by the words that came out of Goliath’s mouth. Goliath was making fun of him and trying to plant fear in his mind. This 24