Forum to help in getting the most out of school sports

In 2005, the father of a high school football player didn`t think his son was getting enough playing time. So, he shot and wounded his son`s coach. Sounds absurd, but more and more, parents are morphing into belligerents when their children hit the playing field, punching referees and scuffling with other parents and sports fans. Their kids are following suit. Encumbered by burdens to win, school athletes are often resorting to violence, but also turning to steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs. Some are simply buckling under the weight of the pressures to win. The issues are steadily increasing, and their aftereffects can be long-lasting, stifling development, crushing self-esteem and even hindering worthwhile relationships. The Ohio Association of Independent Schools (OAIS) thinks these recent phenomenon are plaguing school sports and robbing them of their overall purpose: fun and personal growth. So, the association joined forces with independent school councils and associations throughout the state to host a forum that helps parents and students maintain a healthy perspective about school sports. On Tuesday, October 17, OAIS, in conjunction with the Cleveland Council of Independent Schools, will bring Richard Ginsburg, Ph.D., to Laurel School to discuss his recent book, "Whose Game Is It Anyway: A Guide to Helping Your Child Get The Most From Sports Organized By Age and Stage." Ginsburg is the co-director for the Massachusetts General Hospital Sports Psychology Program, one that not only focuses on athletic performance, but also other psychiatric issues such as eating disorders, depression and anxiety. Karin O`Neil, OAIS executive director, hopes the event sparks conversation among parents about the role of sports in students` lives at large and the need to stress the importance of more than just athletic prowess. "One of the things that Dr. Ginsburg talks about is how it`s important to have skill and competition in sports, but it`s equally important not to lose sight of the character development that comes with athletics," she said. Tuesday`s event is open to any who`d like to attend. It is one of three events with Dr. Ginsburg that will be hosted throughout the state. Laurel School is located at 1 Lyman Circle in Shaker Heights. The program will be held in the Main Building and begins at 7:00 p.m. For more information visit the OAIS Web site or contact Karin O`Neil at knoeil@oais.org.