Do you believe differences exist in the way boys and girls view competition?

As a boys’ tennis coach, I can clearly see the difference. However, I also believe that differences exist between individual players. Some parents believe that girls are simply less competitive than boys. I’m not sure I agree. Differences in behaviors and attitudes about competition can be identified in an individual by observance of athletic performances.

Honestly, do differences between the two genders really matter? It is obvious that the attitudes and behaviors associated with competition matter when it comes to overall health. Some boys and girls focus on winning at all costs, using manipulation and aggression towards the end, while others might seek enjoyment from learning a task or performing well. 

It does seem as though children are being compelled, at a younger age, to view sports participation as a win-lose proposition. When focusing on the interaction between women and men, it appears that more men seek to dominate others in sports. Yet, there are many women who have that competitive edge; no matter what sport.

Children need to be interested in participating in sports; not entirely zoomed in on the results of a win or loss. For every talented athlete who makes it to the top, there are many obstacles to overcome. In addition to being able to handle the pressure of setbacks, top athletes often credit their persistence and ability to focus under pressure as a key to their success.

Keep in mind that children learn by example, whether it’s the example you set, that of a coach, or the example of a sports figure.

Teaching your child how to perform his or her best and to have fun in sports will improve your child’s self-esteem. If you “drop the ball,” so to speak, your child will stop learning the necessary skills to improve, and could actually begin to dislike sports.

Watching your child compete in a sporting event can be fun, exciting, and even heart-breaking, but rising above difficult challenges and demonstrating a positive attitude toward the game, the rules, and the challenges you face can make all the difference.

Dr. Sonya Rogers is a certified counselor who lives in Daphne. 

Her column regularly appears in the Daphne Bulletin and Spanish Fort Sun.