Ingredients for a Successful Student-Athlete

Sports have been around for a very long time. They have been integrated in the community as organized sports for youth as young as six years of age. Coach Terrell Newby Sr. has 19 years under his belt as a Head coach for the West Valley Eagles Youth Football League. Newby said, there are key elements that must be in place to be a successful athlete. Coach Newby believes the job of an effective coach is to supply the student athlete with the tools needed to be successful on and off the field. Participating in organized sports creates character building that kids can carry on into their adult lives. Bonding with others is another skill that is generated in sports and is needed throughout life. Playing sports of any kind can also give an insecure kid, self-confidence. Although a kid may be the smallest on the team, being a part of that team gives him or her confidence to be themselves. There is another important element that is a must before a kid can be successful, said, Newby. When asked what that element is, Newby said, “support”. He explains that support could be the family, a friend, a coach or community. Newby believes that support is a means of motivation and encouragement for the player and especially if a disappointing situation or an injury may occur. The elements of hard work, commitment and support mixed together is like baking a cake, the right ingredients will make a beautiful cake. The same thing happens in sports when the elements are there, it will make a successful team or individual.

Photo Reference:

Credited by: Ethel Summers-Newby

Football Field. www.wix.com