Lesson On Sportsmanship FromThe Pros: Kids, Don't Do What Manny Did!

I try to teach my kids that actions speak louder than words. And, evidently, many other parents have done the same because since last Thursday's trading deadline, Manny's behavior has not gone unnoticed from even his youngest of ex-fans. And, sadly, I do mean ex-fans. One 7 year old said to me over and over again in my office "Can you believe Manny? I mean, can you believe him? Look at how he's playing NOW!" When I asked him what he thought of Manny's replacement on the Red Sox, Jason Bay, this young Red Sox fan gushed: “He’s really cool. He hits and moves. He knows how to be a team player!!” Out of the mouth of babes...(Manny, are you listening??)

Manny's behavior is quite a contrast to other examples of sportsmanship we've had in sports recently. The hands down winner in how to be a team player actually comes from the world of college woman's softball as Ellen talked about on her show. Think about it - two girls from a team selflessly carry an injured play from the opposing team around the bases so her home run will count. I doubt Manny would do that. He wouldn't even perform reasonably for the team paying him millions until he was traded - his bat seemed dead and he struck out more than I recall him ever doing. Now, all of a sudden his bat has come alive?

Our kids look up to the prosports figures as heroes - and those players need to be accountable for their behavior. You would think that a player of that caliber would embody good sportsmanship but all too often it just doesn't occur. Given the salaries of many of those players it does beg the question of whether there needs to be a behavior clause tacked onto the salary, as well as a performance clause. I think unquestionably yes!!

The Boston Red Sox have lost beloved players before but this situation is markedly different for any of the others. Johnny Damon opted to leave at the end of a season. And, Nomar was traded but it was very mutual and he and the team both conducted themselves with dignity and respect for each other. And, he continued to perform and give his all until the day he was on longer wearing his Red Sox uniform.

He may be one of MLB’s best slugger’s but sure will go down in history as one of the least respected players ever. With out sportsmanship and respect for a team, it doesn’t matter how good a player someone is or how much that person gets paid. What makes you a great player is being a great person. Manny was his own undoing and over time people are likely to remember his antics over his skill and that is the true tragedy here.

On the other hand, that softball story will continue to be told for years - long after we've all forgotten those players names. That story is just the example of sportsmanship our kids need to hear about - as well as coaches and other parents. Perhaps someone should show Manny that video!! Just goes to show that you don't have to be a pro or be paid millions of dollars to know how to conduct yourself properly on the field.

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