The Power of Loyalty
Peter's decision to stay with a team instead of moving up to the next level.
Name: Peter, Gulf Coast Heat, Middle School Basketball
Action: Peter was having a remarkable year playing on the middle school B team (developmental basketball team). Towards the end of the season, there was an opportunity for Peter to move up and play for the A team playoff game, but this would mean missing the B team game. The A team playoff game had much higher stakes. Moving up from B to A is basically a promotion and recognition of great play.
Despite this, Peter requested NOT to go up to the A team. While grateful for the opportunity to play for the A team, he felt indebted to be with the teammates he worked with throughout the season and finish out the season with the B team. While it certainly wouldn't have been wrong for Peter or any kid to play at the next level, the motives behind Peter's decision were selfless and epitomized loyalty.
Life Lesson: By choosing loyalty over personal gain, Peter demonstrated incredible leadership. Loyalty seems to be a lost behavior trait nowadays among all age groups. Loyalty to colleagues, employers and clients can lead to long-lasting relationships, opportunities for advancement, and a strong reputation in your field. Loyalty to family members creates stronger connections and bonds. Loyalty to God provides a greater sense of peace. Perhaps like Peter, we have the opportunity to pursue a new opportunity, but should we instead be loyal to the job, group or cause?
Article submitted by Kevin Anselmo, editor of Championing Character in Youth Sports and Peter’s former coach.
Share your stories of kids who've shown exceptional character on the field or court! Email Kevin Anselmo (kevin.anselmo@gmail.com) with the following:
- Kid's name and photo* (If you prefer not to include the kids full name or photo online, we can use an image related to the story and just include their first name).
- Inspiring action
- Life lesson learned
- Name and title of person submitting the story
2 Guidelines:
1. We thinking winning and great performances are wonderful, but for the purpose of this feature, we want to hone in on the character / leadership development that was on display.
2. Parents can't nominate your own kid. Sorry, we are all too biased. Submissions must come from coaches, teammates, friends, etc.
Thank you so much!
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