Nazareth ISD continues to prove that it has a the right “recipe” for developing character and success in both academics and athletic competition. The most recent trip to state for the Nazareth Swifts is indicative of that.
Each year, residents in the county watch as Nazareth qualifies for state competition in numerous contests, including FFA, athletics, robotics and UIL events.
When they say, “It takes a village”, the community steps up and does this. Parents, teachers and students are all on board to achieve success every year – and it works.
In all successful programs, you find a high standard of character development. Character development enhances both sport and ethical behavior and is defined as the formation of universally desirable traits such as respect, responsibility, courage, moderation/balance, care, compassion, trustworthiness, generosity, and humility.
Character in coaching provides the basis for athletic programs founded on respect and focused on achieving success of all kinds and at all levels. Most people involved in athletics say that character is a significant component of athletic programs.
Many heads of school want practical strategies that directly address the issue of character in their programs. Sports may not build character but will reveal it. Regardless of winning or losing, a person’s character traits remain the same. The game should foster a healthy interaction among well-intentioned human beings and provide a balance of competition and cooperation.
If most people agree that participation in sports should be a happy, positive experience, then why are so many adults involved in athletic programs marred by negative behaviors? You don’t find that at Nazareth. Overall, it is one of the most positive communities I have encountered.
Nazareth has an ongoing partnership that is maintained among schools, athletic programs, and parents to ensure the realization of educational goals in sports. Coaches and parents are central to the enterprise and must have the necessary knowledge to convey values and goals to student athletes.
Coaches have a vision of how a quality program can best be achieved. They demonstrate competence in knowledge, teaching ability, communication, prioritizing, goal setting, and orchestrating the overall atmosphere of the program. They genuinely care about, respect, show concern for, and have the ability to motivate their players, and a solid work ethic, exhibiting responsibility, honesty, integrity, and dedication. These habits foster virtue in athletes.
Congratulations to the Nazareth Swifts on a great season – and congratulations coaches and parents. You show us how to get the job done.