For some time, I have been thinking about a couple societal trends. These are the practice of participation trophies and the trend of ‘selfies’ and having to document everything with photographs on social media.
Participation trophies are certainly one of many topics that come up when anyone talks about youth sports. There are good arguments on both sides, but, while I might not go as far as, Steeler linebacker, James Harrison’s decision to return trophies his children receive, I stand in the company of those opposed to participation trophies. I am of the view that rewards in life are earned and that there is greater encouragement and value in not distributing trophies to everyone, simply for showing up to play. I feel this leads to a greater sense of entitlement in education, work, and relationships. I am fine with a participation medal—and possibly awards at the youngest levels of sport where it is participation that is being encouraged over winning (i.e., when scores and win/loss records are not considered)—but, once winners and losers are defined, it is time to dispose of participation trophies and recognize effort. This is a harsh reality of life—that there are winners and losers. I prefer to think of it as winners and learners, however. Learners in that we can gain from recognizing that we need to change our effort, if we are to come out on top.
I think it important for children—and especially adults—to learn that the reward is in the performance. Whether or not a trophy (or any reward) is awarded, the most import outcome in sport (and life) is that one played the game and gave their all. Some days our “all” isn’t enough to win, but we learn what we need to do better or different the next time. Participation is, in itself, the reward.
The rewards in life need to be internal rather than external. Otherwise, we are never satisfied because there is only one champion or we are always content with mediocrity. I prefer to encourage a growth mindset over a fixed mindset. Yes, I know the counter-argument—“But, they are only children.” This is true, however, it is because this is true that I don’t support participation trophies. Let’s face it, children are inherently selfish. It is a necessary trait for survival. It is not a trait that is necessary—indeed, it can be argued that it is a trait that is not beneficial—to one’s place in society. Thus, we need for children, as well as adults, to learn to be independent and contributors to society. Youth sports can provide a microcosm of society for early civics lessons for children. Through sports children can learn much about themselves and the role of societies (i.e., teams).
There is no better example of “well-centered” living than athletics, where Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, and Social dimensions come to light. With the exception of truly individualized sports, the aspect of “team” is Spiritual—athletes are competing for something greater than self. How much better a demonstration of this than the modern Olympic games. While all athletes are competing individually for the gold medal, they are nonetheless representing their nation and, in reality, all of mankind in the pursuit of the Olympic dream. Imagine “the thrill of victory” without the “agony of defeat”. The Physical aspect of sports needs no discussion. Intellectually, sport is all about strategy and increasingly about the science of sport. It is psychology. Participation trophies remove the Emotional value of sports—learning to accept victory, as well as defeat. In any given competition, at least half of the participants experience failure. Loss is an opportunity to accept the defeat but not losing. Finally, “team” implies Social. We celebrate superstars, but superstar athletes must still play with a team. The great leaders in sports elevate the teammates rather than dominate them.
I value the lessons sports has to offer. I value the coaches who take the time to teach these lessons to my children as a priority over winning. Personally, I believe that the coaches who are transformational, as opposed to transactional, will ultimately put up the most Ws in the win/loss column. I also believe that the athletes who are taught to value effort will, long-term, be most successful in life.
“A champion needs a motivation above and beyond winning.”—Pat Riley