By James Landers. James Landers, Saint Petersburg, Florida is a youth football coach with the North East Bandits organization.
I was recently approached about this subject in our league. It is something that I often discuss.
Youth sports is the ultimate equalizer. Then kids step on the field, their background and/or economic situation is largely irrelevant. However, getting on the field is often a major problem for our young citizens. The sad fact is that many kids will never get the opportunity to play because their parents lack the resources. Overlooking this is shameful.
I believe in EQUALITY OF OPPORTUNITY. Consequently, we manage an out-reach program that provides this opportunity. Is this recruiting? It would be if selected participants based on athletic ability.
Our experience is that this approach is short sided. Firstly, the purpose should be about giving a chance to the kids that want it the most. The game goes far beyond athletic ability. Heart, effort, attention, attitude are ALL ingredients that have a direct impact to the success of the player.
Find supporters to help kids in need. Find kids that understand the opportunity you are providing and give them the opportunity regardless of their athletic ability. You will be a better coach for it and you will have helped out the community.
I was recently approached about this subject in our league. It is something that I often discuss.
Youth sports is the ultimate equalizer. Then kids step on the field, their background and/or economic situation is largely irrelevant. However, getting on the field is often a major problem for our young citizens. The sad fact is that many kids will never get the opportunity to play because their parents lack the resources. Overlooking this is shameful.
I believe in EQUALITY OF OPPORTUNITY. Consequently, we manage an out-reach program that provides this opportunity. Is this recruiting? It would be if selected participants based on athletic ability.
Our experience is that this approach is short sided. Firstly, the purpose should be about giving a chance to the kids that want it the most. The game goes far beyond athletic ability. Heart, effort, attention, attitude are ALL ingredients that have a direct impact to the success of the player.
Find supporters to help kids in need. Find kids that understand the opportunity you are providing and give them the opportunity regardless of their athletic ability. You will be a better coach for it and you will have helped out the community.
