When did sports become so cut throat? I just finished reading a story about a man who went to his daughters hockey game and, while sitting in the stands, pointed a laser in the eyes of the opposing teams goalie. Really? How did it get to that point? Will the daughter ever look back at that game and wonder if she was good enough to win that game on her own without the "help" of her moron father. Will everyone always look at that game and say "Really, you couldn't have won that game without cheating!"
How are our kids supposed to better themselves if their parent interjects themselves into a situation like this. He should feel ashamed of himself!
It is unbelievable how hard some parents can be on their children when it comes to sports. In my family, we push our kids to exceed in the sports they choose to participate in, but not at the expense of others. I know that if my children or I as a parent help to cheat, they will never learn to be better. There is something to be said for losing. It builds character and teaches a child how to work hard to become better at whatever they will do. You can't cheat your way into the NHL, NFL, or NBA. Your name does not get you into the NHL, NFL, or NBA. And certainly, if you make it their, your father can't sit in the stands and shine a laser in the eyes of the opponents to help you win. The only thing that will get you into a professional team is your skills and your hard work
We tell our kids the following two statements and they apply all the time.
1."To be the best you have to play with the best"
This means you want to play against the best players you can. Even if this means you lose every game. The only way you can be better is to watch and learn from those who are better than you.
2. " If you have to tell us how great you are, then you are not so great!"
First, you can be good at something but there is always room for improvement. And, usually the kid that will walk around talking about how awesome they are and how much better they play than others, isn't that great. It is usually the kid that sits quietly, plays hard, and keeps his mouth shut and listens to others that excels tremendously in a sport and in life.
In conclusion, the lesson in this story is simple. Cheaters never win and winners never cheat! Work hard and win on your own merit. It will make them stronger and will help them excel in life! This goes for kids and parents alike!
