Everyone talks about character development in sports. But how does it actually happen? Some argue that simply participating in sports helps young athletes develop character through learning how to work together as a team, growing as leaders, and resolving conflicts. 

Does it though? 

As educators we know that simply exposing students to ideas isn’t enough to ensure learning is actually happening. 

Perhaps we have to be a little more explicit and intentional in our instruction. 

Here are some ways that we can be more intentional about developing character and promoting sportsmanship and personal growth in our athletes:

1. Define and communicate clear expectations for behavior and sportsmanship to all student athletes, coaches, and stakeholders involved in the sports program. Emphasize the importance of integrity, respect, and fair play both on and off the field.

2. Then, show students what these behaviors look like. Coaches, administrators, and other adults involved in the sports program should demonstrate sportsmanship, respect for opponents and officials, and adherence to ethical standards at all times.

3. If they still don’t get it, then coach students on honesty, integrity, responsibility, respect, and teamwork. Use real-life examples and scenarios to illustrate how these values apply in the context of sports.

4. Encourage student athletes to identify personal character strengths and areas for growth and to work toward improving their character throughout the season.

5. Acknowledge acts of sportsmanship, leadership, and teamwork both publicly and privately to reinforce desired behaviors. 

6. Foster a culture of inclusivity, diversity, and respect within the sports program. Emphasize the importance of treating teammates, opponents, coaches, officials, and spectators with dignity and respect regardless of differences in background, ability, or perspective.

7. Collaborate with parents and families in supporting character development efforts within the sports program. 

In other words, rather than hoping that character development happens, we actually teach it to students – in the same way we teach them how to solve equations, or cite sources in an essay. 

I know that many of my colleagues will balk at these ideas. Some will ask where coaches are supposed to find the time to coach AND to develop character.

They won’t like this response: you just build it in. The goal of a school sports program is not to produce champions. The goal is to produce young people who demonstrate integrity, respect, and teamwork. Middle and high schools are not the minor league system of college sports programs.  

By intentionally incorporating the above strategies into the school sports program, educators and coaches can create a positive and supportive environment that contributes to the success of individual athletes but also fosters a culture of integrity, respect, and teamwork that benefits the entire school community.

Character, after all, is the reason for the sports season. 

Ed X!