Sports and Godliness

CJ Mahaney has an excellent post on sports and how character can be taught through sports. It's one of the best posts I've read in a while. He speaks primarily to boys and their relationships with their fathers but I think most of this would apply to girls as well. Check it out when you have a chance. Here's some of his teaching points:

• Humbly receive correction from your coach and ask your coach how you can grow in character as well as athletic skill.

• Thank your coaches for the way they have served you. And thank the referees after each game.

• Encourage your teammates for their display of godly character and athletic skill--in that order of priority.

• Encourage your opponents during and after the game. If you knock someone over, extend your hand to help them up.

• Play the game passionately and unselfishly. Serve your team by playing aggressive defense and passing the ball on offense.

• Humbly respond when the referee calls a foul on you. Do not complain or disagree in word or by facial expression.

• No inappropriate celebrating after you score; instead, recognize that others played a role.

• Thank the team manager for the way he served and recognize the humility and servanthood he is displaying each game. True greatness is sitting on the end of the bench.