DIY Network

Advice and Inspiration From a True Professional From "Family Sports" episode SPT-107

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REAL VIDEO Coach Pat Summit discusses basketball, as well as some ideals behind encouraging young people to participate in sports. Select the image above to view a video of the televised interview.

Pat Head Summit, head coach of the University of Tennessee's women's basketball team, talks with Belma Johnson about the sport of basketball. She also shares some thoughts about how certain ideals behind sport and sportsmanship can carry over into everyday life. A few highlights are summarized below. Select the image at right to link to a downloadable video of the interview included in the televised episode.

From an early age, many children find motivation, enjoyment and satisfaction in competitive games like basketball. Learning and practicing basic ball-handling techniques such as dribbling feels immediately rewarding for young kids. From there, the inclination to pass, play and shoot will emerge naturally. Learning correct fundamental skills, however, is most essential for young players. From a physical perspective, it's also vital for all players to understand the importance of warming up and stretching before playing or going through a practice routine. Stretching, both before and after a rigorous practice, is essential. Warming up and "warming down" are both important for a good workout and to avoid injury.

Though most youngsters have an innate desire to play and compete, some tend to exhibit qualities early on that will evolve into a desire to excel coupled with strong discipline with respect to athletics. Often these same qualities carry over into adulthood and may be reflected in other areas of life -- such as the way individuals pursue jobs, careers and other endeavors. One of the attributes that seem common to those who excel is passion combined with a strong work ethic. Dedication and discipline can sometimes make the difference, making it possible for someone to achieve success in an endeavor that he or she doesn't have a natural predisposition for. The drive to practice and work toward a specific goal, and a fundamental desire to win, is sometimes the factor that pays off for individuals in the long run.