My 2 Cents: Participation Trophies

A professional football player is getting a lot of credit these days for bucking the trend, and sending back the trophies his two little boys got for playing, not winning, just playing on a pee wee football team.

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison explained on Instagram:

"I'm not about to raise two boys to be men by making them believe that they are entitled to something just because they tried their best...cause sometimes your best is not enough, and that should drive you to want to do better."

I couldn't agree more with that sentiment, but it got me to thinking about my own coaching experience.

I coached my daughter's team in basketball when they were grade schoolers, and made it my goal not so much to win, but to help the girls develop a love for the game.

I think I did that, but at the end of the season I also gave awards, and every girl was recognized for a skill or ability I thought they exemplified over the season.

I gave them a certificate stating it, and the requisite YMCA participation medal.

We also recognized a best player on offense and a best defensive player.

It seemed right at the time, and still does, but what do you think?

Would James Harrison have sent my little certificate and/or medal back to me?

I'm Kelly Ogle and that's My 2 Cents.