"Before using a cuss word, think what it would be like using when your son or daughter was 4 years old and learning how to speak and spell. You'd think twice for fear of teaching them a bad word. Before deciding to transfer, write down your priorities and see which coach/school can provide the best guidance, the best inspiration, the best journey even if you never got to start or never played for a championship team."
"The next time you get mad at an official because of a foul, a pitch that was called a strike instead of a ball or a pass interference penalty that you thought was wrong, take a moment to ask is that a big deal in your life or is that one of those moments to accept and move on to the next play, the next pitch, the next game?"
"When an opposing player tries to start a fight or lure you into losing your cool, remember they're testing you, looking for an advantage, seeing if you crack under pressure or forgot what your coach always says: Don't lose your focus. When the game is over and you line up to shake hands, you might see and hear opponents who don't know how to win with class, so don't take the bait to do the same."
Use language responsibly around young children to avoid teaching inappropriate words. Evaluate transfer decisions by writing priorities and choosing coaches and schools offering guidance, inspiration and a meaningful journey over immediate playing time. Resist peer pressure to drink alcohol to impress; choose friends who empower right choices taught by parents and coaches. Control reactions to officials and opponents by assessing whether a call merits prolonged anger or merits moving on to the next play. Maintain composure when opponents try to provoke; view such incidents as tests of focus. Demonstrate leadership by winning with class and initiating cleanliness and culture without being asked.
Read at Los Angeles Times
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