With the passing of Joe DiMaggio, we witnessed the
last "modest" hero. Today's professional sport stars know that megabucks
come to those who can market their skills with "gimmicks." Multi-colored
hair, a special celebration dance, weird nicknames, and yes, even an arrest
can produce extra dollars at contract negotiations. Youngsters must pay for
autographs, fans must first purchase a seat license to buy season tickets.
Is it unreasonable for youngsters to mimic this behavior? "If they can, why
can't I?" The answer you give is important to all of us. Beyond the playing
fields, our society depends on the values of our youth.
General Douglas MacArthur said, "Football is a symbol
of our Nation's greatest qualities – courage, stamina, and coordinated
efficiency. In all my years of military duty it was in my football men I
found my greatest reliance." Yes, football is the greatest team sport known
to man. We, who know and love football, understand the lessons that football
teaches. It is common to all of us to remember so many things our coaches
have said to us, yet not recall a classroom teacher's words.
Tom Brokaw, in his book, The Greatest Generation,
mentions the debt we owe to those who gave us freedom. Those who made
football great didn't hot dog to self-promote. We need our young football
people to understand the concept that "Freedom isn't free." A contract for
your players could mention the privilege of playing the great sport of
football in exchange for playing by the rules, giving their best effort and
putting the team first.
We at American Youth Football realize the
commercialization of football and we intend to be "warriors" in the battle
to preserve the greatest of all games. How can this be done? Psychologists
tell us behavior modification can only be accomplished through positive
reinforcement. We dedicate ourselves to that mission. We will positively
reinforce your efforts, your players' efforts and your unsung (behind the
scenes) helpers' efforts. We pledge to acknowledge that which is good in
your organization. Our PIGSKIN publication is only one of a
multitude of technological vehicles we will align you with to keep you
motivated.
Check out these past President's Messages articles:
The Largest Youth Football & Cheer Organization in the
Country
