All In? A metaphorically constructed proverb about the importance of seemingly insignificant things from Poor Richard’s Almanack by Benjamin Franklin
Valuable Volunteer Voice One bonus of working for a national youth-sports organization is the opportunity to interact with several volunteers and youth-sports professionals doing great work around the country. My favorite annual task is notifying and interviewing our national volunteer parent and coach of the year.
Making Space Poet Robert Herrick used these six words—simple in nature—to declare a profound message: we have only one life and one youth, and both must be enjoyed while they last. This article is for Paid-members only
Help Wanted Most people can agree that today’s youth-sports landscape has changed significantly. Volunteers are burdened with many requirements that weren’t concerns 20 years ago. This article is for Paid-members only
Taking Fun Seriously "We take our fun pretty seriously. We've really looked at what keeps kids coming back. Because if they're not having fun, they’re not enjoying the experience, they vote with their feet. They just walk away." This article is for Paid-members only
When Less Becomes More During one of my college summers, I worked for an earth-moving contractor and, being the new man and lowest on the totem pole, I was often tasked with asking the boss questions. This article is for Paid-members only
Mental Health Matters Mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, yet it's often overlooked in youth sports, which can lead to devastating consequences. This article is for Paid-members only
Taking A Chance The Board of Commissioners noticed a pattern. Of the many commodities and services our park system engaged, the same awardees were recommended year after year. This article is for Paid-members only
Cultivating Passionate Participants When I was younger, I couldn’t wait for the next season to start, and it didn’t matter for what sport. Baseball was my first choice, but basketball, football, soccer, and wrestling were all big in my house.
Cutting To The Core Of Your Character I do some consulting work regarding the completion and structure of bid documents and contracts. Unlike my previous career in government work, these private-sector clients can make decisions based on emotion and preference. This article is for Members only
Cultivating Courage Growing up, I played just about every sport imaginable, and I’m glad I did. I loved baseball from the start and was lucky to play all through high school. Everything about the game fascinated me. This article is for Paid-members only
The Power Of Decency Doctors agreed that, after President Ronald Reagan survived a 1981 assassination attempt, his memory was diminished. (Years later, he was formally diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.) This article is for Paid-members only