Teens benefit
By Michelle Lindsey
from devoted
coach’s careAS we move forward toward the year 2000, Americans are becoming increasingly concerned about the state of teen-agers.
American teens face many problems today, ranging from peer pressure to neglect to concerns about their future. They need positive influences and encouragement to guide them. Recognizing this, many adults have stepped up the effort to make a difference.
Almost nightly on television, we view commercials and promotions, often featuring big-name stars and TV personalities urging people to volunteer, become involved, become a mentor.
A nationwide movement regarding mentoring is making its way across the country. The Big Brothers/Big Sisters organization and the Aloha United Way are encouraging more citizens to get involved. The Disney Channel offers an annual award for the American teacher. And there is even "Make A Difference Day" held annually in the fall.
For those who have not found support and encouragement at home or in the classroom, there is one other place to go, to a sports program. The high school coach is becoming as important a commodity as a teacher. Those who may not do well in classes may achieve similarly important success on the field, on the court, on the track or in the pool.
For many young athletes, a high school coach will develop an influence as strong as a parent or teacher, and this may be the only positive influence in their lives.
There are many coaches out there who recognize this and who truly care about their athletes, and who never fail to be supportive. It becomes disheartening when coaches fail to realize this; fail to reach out and grasp the opportunity that they've been given to make a difference.
I can testify to what a difference just a few words from a caring coach can make in a young person's life. I would like to mention two, in particular, who have made a difference in my life.
Robin Flanagan and Peter Hursty are the devoted coaches of the Oahu Club Swim Team. While it's important to them that their swimmers work hard to become the best that they can be, Robin and Peter never lose sight of what their job is about. That is, offering a kind, encouraging and supportive environment that allows athletes to grow, not only as swimmers, but as individuals and as team players.
Because of their guidance, I have never once left a practice feeling discouraged or down on myself. I have tremendous respect for them and their ideals in managing their team.
If you are a coach, or are in a position to be a positive influence in a young person's life, please don't hesitate to step up and offer a few kind words of encouragement or lend a hand of support. Even if the person you help doesn't say so, I will say it means so much.
Michelle Lindsey is 17 and is home-schooled. Rant & Rave is a Tuesday Star-Bulletin feature
allowing those 12 to 22 to serve up fresh perspectives.
Speak up by fax at 523-8509; by answering machine at 525-8666;
snail mail at P.O. Box 3080, Honolulu 96802;
or e-mail, features@starbulletin.com
