Just a Game

Today, SGB Media  released an article stating that the NSGA (National Sporting Goods Administration) joined the PCA (Positive Coaching Alliance) in promoting team sports for youth. This partnership was made for the intent to show the "NSGA's interest in increasing team sports participation and keeping youth participants active" (sgbonline.com).  The PCA is an association of coaches that promote what is called positive coaching . This coaching style is a theory-based approach to building a successful team while maintaining a high level of player-confidence.  It is quite different from the traditional "chew 'em out" approach to coaching. Instead of imposing pressure and punishments, positive coaching builds the players from the inside-out with confidence and positive communication.  Phil Jackson coaching Michael Jordan (top) and Kobe Bryant (bottom). Positive coaching is not only useful in coaching youth. Phil Jackson (one of the most succes

Many families are famous because of the sports they have been involved in. One family has been talked about a lot  recently, and that is the Ball family from Chino Hills, California.  With three boys who are close in age and in talent, there is a lot of hype surrounding them.  What really gets me excited to watch them in the future is how they are all very different.  I believe their father has fostered this element of individuality by promoting autonomy with all of his sons, allowing them to become the types of players that they want.  It is obvious that their father has influenced them, and they have adopted a similar attitude, but they have not let this consume them and turn them into bad sports. I believe they truly play the game because they love it and enjoy the challenge.  This video gives a little inside look to the Ball family. All too often, parents are pressuring their kids to conform to their ideals and dreams.  I don't see this in the Ball Family. You see a fa

February is commonly known as "Black History Month". In that vein, I would like to base the thoughts of this week's post.  The Undefeated 44 is a website that is dedicated to 44 of the most influential Black Americans in history, many of which are athletes.  In a time where there is an increasing amount of discussion on the topic of crimes committed due to race, it is no surprise to me that this is in the forefront of most American's minds.  With websites and months being dedicated to the "differences" or "diversity" of our nation, it does not surprise me that the stereotypes and mindsets are lingering.  It seems as though, in the efforts to destroy the segregated mindset, we are establishing it.  I have learned of a theory that allows the media to determine what we think about.   Even though we may not agree with whatever article we are reading, it is still bringing the issue to our minds to be debated on a later occasion in which our opinion may