When Sports Heroes Make Mistakes, by Dr. Brad Schwall

Should professional athletes be role-models?  Yes and no. Since no person is perfect, the sports heroes of children and youth are not perfect.  For athletes to be role-models, we must re-define "role-model." How can we guide our kids to look up to and learn from athletes, but not be disillusioned when they hear about scandals involving the stars in the news?

Emphasize that bad choices lead to bad consequences no matter who you are

Everyone makes mistakes, but there is no denying the importance of making good choices.  Addictions and emotions are powerful and self-control is often difficult to achieve, but help is available and behavior can be controlled and changed. When we make bad decisions we negatively impact those we love which is more of an issue than letting down fans who are strangers.  When sports heroes make mistakes, we can actually learn from observing how they handle adversity, reconcile with their loved ones, and commit to change behavior that causes problems for themselves and others.

Focus on appreciating specific qualities rather than wholesale worship

A role-model is an individual who possesses admirable and exceptional qualities and skills.  We can appreciate these qualities and skills without believing that they are perfect in every aspect of their lives.  Focus on the specific skills, qualities, and accomplishments of athletes.  Connect accomplishments with hard work.  

Emphasize specific ways in which the role-model works to make a positive contribution to society.  Avoid viewing the athlete as a complete, perfect example of how to live life.

Find realistic role-models

There are role-models in all communities.  When you know people over time, it is easier to gauge their overall character.  Role-models right around us exemplify qualities that can be lived out by all since having the skills of an elite athlete is rare.  Help children understand how the people around them are positive examples and how they make their communities better places in which to live.