Team Sports: Builders of Character

There are two kinds of people on this earth: the energetic and constructive who go through life doing their thing, and the others who passively follow someone else’s lead.

The first group includes the leaders, those not afraid to take the initiative and guide others into unexplored territory. One of the strengths of this country is its encouragement of leadership as well as its fostering of competitiveness through freedom of action and enterprise. Our nation is also a cradle of competitive team sports. Both of these combine in shaping the leaders of the future.

Looking back at my life, I often reflect on the impact that athletics has had on fueling the competitive aspects of my personality. Engaging in these activities offers so many advantages that all youngsters should be encouraged to participate.

Team sports allow children to learn how to lose with dignity and how to win with humility, channel their energy in a constructive and healthy direction, and foster leadership, motivation and strength of character. Remaining active also inspires health by combating obesity, building muscles, increasing bone density and stamina. Furthermore, being physically active helps one feel euphoric through the release of endorphins. Bonding with fellow teammates can often lead to friendships that may last a lifetime. My wife says she has made many good friends through the game of tennis.

Interest in sports remains within us forever. In old age or at times of illness, when one can no longer actively participate, one can still vicariously enjoy the victories of our team through identification with the athletes, as if we were the players themselves.

Soon the Olympic games will be starting in Beijing. By bonding with the athletes of our country, the spirit of patriotism will be enhanced. The Olympic games are the royalty of sports competitions and, as such, should never be tainted by the intermission of politics.

Dr. Carlos Muniz is a retired psychiatrist from Gainesville.
He may be contacted through the editor at editor@towerpublications.com

Columns Archive