In every gym, on every field, and during every practice or game, someone is watching. For middle and high school athletes, it can be easy to get caught up in the moment—thinking about stats, wins, or college dreams. But what many young athletes don’t realize is the incredible influence they have on those around them, especially the little ones in the stands who look up to them like superheroes.
It’s Not Just About the Game
Your attitude and effort matter. Not just to your teammates or your coach, but to every young athlete who sees you on the court or field. Whether you realize it or not, there are younger kids in your community who are learning how to carry themselves by watching how you play the game. They notice how you hustle back on defense, how you celebrate a teammate’s success, or how you handle adversity when things don’t go your way.
Middle and high school athletes are often the most visible role models in their communities. You don’t have to be on national television to be someone’s hero.
Big Names, Big Influence—and So Do You
As we head into this year’s Final Four, players like Paige Bueckers and Cooper Flagg are receiving a lot of attention—not just for their incredible talent, but also for the way they interact with fans, especially younger athletes. Videos of them signing autographs, taking pictures, and giving their time to kids are going viral for a reason. These moments matter. They show the world that being a great athlete also means being a great person.
But here’s the truth: you don’t have to be a household name or headed to the Final Four to have that kind of impact. Local athletes—middle and high schoolers—are often just as admired by younger kids in their schools, neighborhoods, and communities. You have your own spotlight, even if it’s not on ESPN.
A Real Story: The Power of One Moment
There was once a young boy, about 5 years old, who met a local basketball player at a park. The little boy enjoyed basketball but at that time was more fascinated with collecting sticks. Instead of brushing him off or walking away, the older athlete spent over an hour walking through the park with him—searching for sticks, talking, and just hanging out.
That day, that simple act, made a lasting impression. Two years later, that same boy, now around 7 or 8, was a regular at varsity basketball games. He came not just for the excitement of the game, but to watch a particular player—the one who had once picked up sticks with him in the park.
After one game, the young boy waited to talk to the athlete. When they met, he asked, “Do you remember picking up sticks with me at the park?” The older athlete smiled and said, “Yeah, I remember you.” The boy lit up. His mom later shared that it made his whole day—maybe even his whole season.
The Influence is Real
That moment wasn’t about basketball. It was about connection, kindness, and being seen. That young boy didn’t idolize the player because of his stats or scoring average. He looked up to him because of the way he made him feel—important, valued, and inspired.
This is the kind of impact every middle and high school athlete is capable of. The younger kids in the community are always watching, always absorbing, and often modeling themselves after what they see. One small moment of kindness or leadership can spark a lifelong love of the game or plant the seed for a future leader.
Final Thoughts: You Matter More Than You Know
As a young athlete, your actions carry weight. Every choice you make—how you treat people, how you respond to challenges, how hard you work—can shape someone else’s future. You don’t have to be perfect, but you do have to be mindful.
Whether you know it or not, you’re already a role model. So lace up, show up, and give your best. Because the little eyes watching you today may be the big shoes filling your role tomorrow.
BtL
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