Athletes are More than the Box Score

I'm sure you have heard the complaint.  All the school cares about is sports.  That's all we talk about.  That's where all the money goes.  If you're an athlete, you can get away with things.  I certainly do understand that perception, but I would like to shed some light on an angle you may be thinking of.  I do treat my student-athletes different from those that do not participate.  I actually expect more of them and that may sound unfair. The life lessons we have the opportunity to teach them are super valuable so yes, I do spend a lot of time on my student-athletes.  They are more than the box score.

Student-athletes are willing to put themselves under a micro scope.  This is a burden that has to be nurtured carefully.  Some little kid wants to be that athlete someday.  The athlete wears their community across their chest in every contest and everywhere they go.  When their behavior dishonors their team, their community and themselves, they will hear about it in more ways than one.  This is a great way to help them understand how blessed they are, but also of their responsibility.

Student-athletes are willing to take intense criticism.  Especially when they are not winning.  These kids, if done properly, put in a crazy amount of time and effort to play and compete.  When you are not winning or you are under performing, players can be the target of a lot of criticism.  More often than not, that can be unfair when you consider that there is so much that is out of their control.  That makes their time and effort seem to be a poor investment.  If you want more kids to go out for teams, you have to be willing to grow them and not tear them down.

Student-athletes are willing to be a part of something bigger than themselves.  I was impressed with the Hamilton County junior high boys basketball team when I saw all of them walk into the gym wearing ties and nice pants.  Kids make sacrifices, big and small, to acknowledge that they belong to a larger mission.  They are willing to put team before self.  Otherwise, they would not be there.

For student-athletes, everyday is a tryout.  Year around they are monitored to see if they are worth bringing back.  Many coaches don't want players that have baggage if it might hurt team culture.  Many coaches do not want players back that do not take care of themselves and work out in the off season.  That time investment that I mentioned is critical, but more so for those who play multiple sports.  They have to maintain a higher standard and that is worth recognizing.

I expect more of my student-athletes because they are willing to accept these conditions.  I give a lot time to these kids because they accept these conditions.  They are willing to do what it takes to weather the criticism, be a part of something bigger, and put in the work for their teammates and community.  In my business we call those people leaders.  If you are a coach, parent or community member don't be afraid to lift these kids up.  It is our job to nurture the next wave of change makers in our communities.  It's not always about the athletes, but we can't judge them solely on the box score.