SPORTS: Learning to lose

First of all, while I do sympathize with the Genesis Prep girls basketball team that lost the championship game of the state 1A Division II, what really struck me was that children these days are not taught how to lose. They appear devastated and are brought to tears and need to be coddled and consoled. What’s next, a “cuddle dog” at each game to help you with your hurt “feelings” if you lose?

Welcome to real life, kids. You can’t always be winners! Sometimes you do lose, but that should inspire you to work harder and, most importantly, be gracious and congratulate the winners. And no, you don’t get to have a “participation” trophy or ribbon. You didn’t earn it.

Please know that I’m not picking on this particular team ... you see and hear about it everywhere, but when it’s on the front page of The Press, it’s hard not to miss. No wonder so many kids can’t make it in the adult world! Parents need to stop coddling and doing for their kids, make them responsible for their own actions and teach them that there are consequences for their actions. Quit bailing them out, whether you’re their coach or parent.

SALLY HICKS

Rathdrum