STOP BULLYING ME: CNN to AIR WEEK LONG SPECIAL

Eric Dorsey and Coaches establish expectations
for respect at a past New York Giants Youth Football Camp

On the field, youth football is a game of confidence and sometimes intimidation.  Young players can become fearful of a strong, aggressive opponent.  However, as long as they compete within the rules and with sportsmanship, it’s game on. 

In sports, when intimation is a factor, there are clearly defined ways to respond. Adjust your blocking technique. Trick your opponent. Answer on the scoreboard.

Bullying is different.  It’s vague and feels like chaos to parents and kids.  It’s physically, socially and emotionally painful.  It consumes and doesn’t end when the game is over.  Victims take it home, try to sleep on it and have difficulty talking about it.

We consider “bully awareness” among the top concerns at all of our youth football camps.  Bullies are discreet and do things under radar.  They quietly hassle and make fun of one struggling kid.   They try to gather support.  We can’t let it happen.  

Our first goal is to gain awareness.  Our parent-staff-camper communication plan is extremely helpful here. With awareness, our coaches take action with firm communication, private discussions, confidential support, heightened monitoring, group adjustments and clear reinforcement of camp rules and expectations.  When a former Chicago Bear, Green Bay Packer, New York Giant or Philadelphia Eagle tells the group that “bullying is not cool and not acceptable,” it resonates.  But our tactic and message must be consistent and applied every day. 

Obviously, bullying expands well beyond the football field.  The internet and social networking groups are prime resources for the bully.  We must learn more. That's why we recommend the following. 

CNN TO DO WEEK LONG FEATURE ON BULLYING, ORIGINS AND WAYS TO STOP

From October 10-15, CNN will host a special series STOP BULLYING: SPEAK UP on from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (check local listings). 

See CNN preview on STOP BULLYING: SPEAK UP here.

Answers to How You Can Stop Bullying here.

Cartoon Network's Help Stop Bullying Campaign here.

For Football Skills, Life Skills and Fun,

Tom Finks

Pro Sports Experience, LLC

http://www.prosportsexperience.com/

Official management company of Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, New York Giants and Philadelphia Eagles Youth Football Camps.