School, Sport and Society

Running Head : Sports and Character Building

Sports and Character Building

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Sports and Character Building

Introduction

Character is defined as the set of moral qualities which are present in an individual . It can include attributes like discipline , prudence courage , integrity , honesty , loyalty and any good behavior or habit Character building refers to the process of using tools and techniques to allow young people to think intensively and critically . Sports can be one of the tools to build morals and character in individuals . Education

policy makers , teachers , politicians and people argue that sports can be an efficient tool to develop moral characters in young people . Western countries usually perceive sports as a vital tool for building better people . Participation in sports is seen as building the character of young people . Sports are considered to build moral fiber . However this theory has been challenged by a large number of researchers academicians , coaches and policy makers who argue that sports do not build character . This presents a summary of the arguments used by proponents and critics about the role of sports in character building

Sports build character

John Wooden , a Basketball Hall of Fame member once said that sports do not build character but reveal it (Bredemeier , Pg 25 , 2000 . Sports are considered beneficial because it allows young people to remain physically active . It also creates lifelong friendships and communication skills which can help in creating a better sense of self worth and independence . Physical activity has been found to be beneficial for children because it allows them to make healthy eating choices that improve their performance and overall health . They reduce the risk of obesity and heart disease by engaging in sports . Supporters say that sports builds character because it allows sick children to break through their barriers by interacting with peers and receiving positive feedback from coaches . Sports can be beneficial in allowing young people to develop great communication skills . They have the opportunity to meet other children with the same interests . Dr Micheli director of Sports Medicine at Children 's Hospital Boston , says that children can obtain enjoyment and they make some of the best friends in their lives through their sports teams (Anderson , Pg 52 , 2000 . Sports are vital for creating a sense of camaraderie which can create bonding between young athletes . It also creates a feeling of belonging to a community when children participate in sports . This can help in fighting anti socialism or withdrawing from society . It gives children a sense of being associated with a sport (Bredemeier , Pg 63 , 2000

Sports and physical activity can have a remarkable impact on individuals and communities . Stoll says that sports programs can decisively promote ethical decision making skills , sportsmanship behavior and a moral character development program for individuals (Pg 18 , 2000 . Sports have power to shape the values and beliefs of athletes

By being placed in a positive environment , young people can relate to each other and help each other out . Sports helps...