At the Wooden Cup banquet collegiate recipient Nathanael Franks told the story of an autistic child he tutored in a school. One day he discovered the child’s love for rocks. Nathanael began to do things with the child involving rocks and a new relationship began, with the result that the child’s grades improved. Franks learned that we can find common ground with those most different from us, and that when that does, good things can happen. How is this like the Code? Two things come to mind for us: first, learning “to respect the dignity of every human being” is based in part on the belief that there is this common ground that we share, and secondly, “being a positive influence on the others on the team” assumes that if we take a positive attitude towards those who differ from us we will be able to find that common ground. What lesson can you learn from Franks’ experience?
The Code for Living
Life Principles Learned Through Sports
Because I am a role model and have the opportunity and responsibility to make a difference in the lives of others, I commit to this Code. I will take responsibility and appropriate actions when I fail to live up to it.
As an individual:
- I will develop my skills to the best of my ability and give my best effort in practice and competition.
- I will compete within the spirit and letter of the rules of my sport.
- I will respect the dignity of every human being, and will not be abusive or dehumanizing of another either as an athlete or as a fan.
As a member of a team:
- I will place team goals ahead of personal goals.
- I will be a positive influence on the relationships on the team.
- I will follow the team rules established by the coach.
As a member of society:
- I will display caring and honorable behavior off the field and be a positive influence in my community and world.
- I will give of my time, skills, and money as I am able for the betterment of my community and world.
