Take Them by the Hand: a Leadership Guide for Coaches

All know the way; few actually walk it -Zen Saying Of all the things we do in our lives, as adults and parents, the most important may be to teach and guide our children. Like our parents before us, we must show them how to be good people and become valuable members of society. It is our responsibility. It is our duty. It is the "way of the world"-to take what we have learned and pass it on to the next generation. I believe we must teach our children about values, character and love. We must show them how to play by the rules. We must show them how to be competitive, yet compassionate. We must show them how to build relationships and love each other. In a larger sense, if we are to ever address issues like war and peace, hunger and disease, and religious differences, we must first do our part at home where we know we have a chance to make an impact. There are many ways to pass it on, but they all include spending time with our children; listening to them; and showing them we care. There are many activities that can be used to nurture our children in many similar ways, but I believe adults are most effective when we try to lead them in our own ways, using our own unique gifts and talents. I think I have found my way using youth soccer. So, for many years I have gone to the soccer fields to "nurture others"-over and over again.