It's a long debated topic. Something that has been happening for years, and will likely continue to happen as our culture becomes more and more easily offended.
Should kids get trophies, or other rewards, just for participating?
This isn't just an issue in sports. It's in pageants, science fairs, talent shows, and everything else under the sun.
So here's the problem: we are building a culture... And not a good one.
Giving kids participation trophies or rewards just for being there, teaches just that... All they have to do is be present, not actually try. It shows them that it doesn't matter how much work they put in, they will always get what they want.
If they don't have to try, why would they? Why put any effort into actually learning the information for the science fair, when they can just throw something together and get a "great job". Why work hard to learn the rules and get in shape for a sport, when they can sit on the bench all season eating cookies and get a "good work" at the end.
And what does this do to the kids who actually try hard and succeed? It puts them on the same level as those who don't do either of those things. It forces those kids to feel as if their effort has no real importance.
Yes, some kids will still try. Some will exceed the normal expectations, trophies or no trophies. But, the majority won't care. They will realize that they can get by with nothing, and take advantage of that. It's human nature and it's not their fault. It's the adult's fault for allowing this trophy culture to continue.
They won't be able to just show up and pass their classes. They won't be able to just show up and get accepted to college. They won't be able to get by on nothing in high school sports. There are no participation rewards at work.
This builds nothing but a generation that feels entitled. A generation that is not prepared for the real world. A generation that is deeply offended by everything that they don't agree with. A generation in need of "safe spaces" to escape from real life.
A generation like we have today.
What a shame.
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1. It's just the basics.
I think we all know this but just to remind everyone, deodorant goes such a long way! If you are an athlete who does not like the white residue some deodorants leave then try using a spray deodorant. Either way do not walk into any type of practice, game, whatever without putting on deodorant.
2. Just an easy tip.
Assorted tea bags arranged on a white surface.
Photo by K8 on UnsplashHere's an easy tip for stinky shoes. Try putting tea bags into your shoes to keep them smelling fresh and to remove odors. This also works with putting tea bags into your gym bags to keep bad smells away.
3. As a college student, I get it.
I get it, we are in college, some are away from home, not a lot of responsibility. One thing that should ALWAYS be a responsibility is clean clothes. If you know you are all out of practice clothes, your practice jersey smells terrible, etc.. GO WASH IT!
Nobody wants to work with someone who smells musty and nasty the whole time. And you definitely don't want to be the person is who looked at as the nasty one on the team. It's simple, just plan ahead and wash your clothes.
4. Time to be real.
man running in forestPhoto by Shashank Shekhar on UnsplashTime to be real, we all sweat. Some sweat more than others. We all sweat by our private areas, the only thing I can say that can help eliminate odors in private areas when sweating is grooming. So if you have lots of hair around your private hair more then likely odors will be present.
All I can say is try to stay clean down there if you sweat a lot by your private area take extra measures like soaking in apple cider vinegar with lukewarm water.
5. Shower right after.
Empty shower stalls in a tiled bathroom.
Photo by - Kenny on UnsplashTry to shower right after a practice or a game if you can. This helps get rid of smells fast. Even if you are playing an away game, if somehow you are able to at least wash up your main areas before getting on a bus ride, you are helping the problem.
6. Another get real moment.
Ladies, sometimes playing sports and being on your period can be hard. Try to stay fresh and clean down there. If you aren't a tampon person, make sure that you always have extra pads with you. After practices or games wash extra good in those areas just to ensure any bad odors are gone.
7. Take home your clothes.
If you have lockers, make sure that you are taking home your practice clothes with you. If you don't smells will soon start to build up. If you have to keep your clothes in your locker try to add a small air freshener
8. Be nice!
"Kindness Matters" on a pink board with a tiled backdrop.
Photo by Copper and Wild on UnsplashIf you notice that someone on your team may need a reminder when it comes to hygiene, simply talk to them in private, You don't have to be mean about it. Offer them advice when it comes to hygiene and how to take care of themselves.
9. Disinfect!
if you play a sport that requires lots of contact with other people or objects try to disinfect have much as you can. it is better to disinfect. With everyone sweating, bacteria can start to build up.
Also, in all honesty, you never know what someone may have(a skin infection, a cut, etc..), so better to be safe than sorry when it comes to disinfecting equipment.
10. Just keep up with yourself.
I always say, just keep up with yourself. I understand you may be very busy but your hygiene is so important, taking care of yourself is important! Stay clean, create your own hygiene routine, and you'll be ok.
There it is! Hygiene is something we can all agree on is important. So keep up it, care about your hygiene!
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