Steinberg: Life skills a must for young athletes

Media reports of athletic behavior read like the crime beat section of a newspaper.

Drunk driving, domestic violence, fights, gunplay and financial problems are trumpeted daily as if they are representative of all athletic conduct. There is an antidote to the behavioral and second career difficulties of athletes — it is prevention. A number of athletic departments at colleges and other organizations are taking the lead in developing life skills programs which better prepare athletes for life off the field.

J. Everette Pearsall, founder and executive director of the National Alliance of African American Athletes, has been a leader in the development of character and leadership skills among high school and college athletes. Since 1992 he has presented the Franklin D. Watkins Award to the top African-American male high school senior scholar-athlete in the nation.

The five finalists need to have demonstrated what Pearsall calls “leadership in both the classroom and the athletic field.” Pearsall keeps in touch with the young athletes throughout their career, encouraging them to develop skills for success in life. Many of the athletes have become standouts at the collegiate and high school level.

Greg Byrne, athletic director at the University of Arizona, has created a program called “The Wildcat Way” for student athletes that stresses financial education, second career preparation, correct behavior and basic life skills. He has developed a handbook, issued to each athlete which addresses everything from media skills to table manners. Every athlete is enrolled in these courses.

Retired Heisman Trophy winning running back Eddie George has returned to his alma mater, Ohio State, to teach a class that prepares students for life after sports. He has been a successful entrepreneur, media talent and philanthropist which makes him a role model for younger athletes.

The University of Texas athletic department has instituted a program for life after sports based on its “Five Pillars.” Texas has a program that prepares students for a variety of life challenges. Their Longhorn Pride center assesses the aptitude and interest of student-athletes to prepare them for a career after sports.

The most effective method of preventing behavioral, financial and life after sports difficulties for athletes is to start education in these areas at an early age. High school is not too early to start. Programs are being innovated across the country by caring officials who would rather light candles than curse the darkness.

Sports agents can make a contribution in this area. We prioritize trying to educate our clients as to the dangers of aberrational behavior and ways to avoid conflict. Starting with a potential draftee and planting the seed to start the initial process of preparing for a life after sports is essential. Charitable and community involvement makes a difference in the life of the involved athlete. Enlisting talented financial planners in educating athletes as to necessity for a financial plan is key.

Prevention and planning can insure a happier life for athletes that play professional sports and the great majority who don’t.

LEIGH STEINBERG is a renowned sports agent, author, advocate, speaker and humanitarian. Follow Leigh on Twitter: @steinbergsports.