Santa's list for high school sports

DEAR SANTA,

I know you're busy, and this may seem last minute, but we reporters, well, we like to push those deadlines.

I am hoping you can grant a few wishes for those associated with, participating in or making rules that affect high school sports.

These gifts can't be found under a tree, so here's hoping each of these groups will find in their hearts and minds the ability to make these wishes a reality.

Fans: The ability to be positive. Just remember what Thumper's mother said, "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all."

It doesn't exhibit school spirit to yell at the other team's players, fans or coaches. It doesn't show school pride to scream about the refs and how they just can't seem to "call it both ways." It doesn't lift or inspire your team when you get in fights, call names or find ways to chant words meant to sound like curse words. All of it, without exception, only reflects as poorly on your team, your school and your community as it does on you.

Coaches: The understanding that your players hang on your every word. They watch you, they hear you and they take to heart what you tell them. When you exhibit no self-control, they follow your lead. When you shake hands and congratulate an opponent who just broke your heart, they follow your example. You may never know the impact you will have on their lives. You cannot be too positive with them.

Club Coaches: The realization that it is good for teenagers to play more than one sport and that high school sports will enrich their lives long after they have finished playing the games. Encourage this, and especially their participation in high school sports. It is an environment that will only make them better leaders. Do not take their childhood from them because you want to earn a regional or national title.

Parents: The perspective and ability to allow your children to have their moment. Keep in mind that their moment may not be what you believe it should be. Don't tell them what they did wrong or run down their teammates and coaches. Don't dissect the game or give them advice on how "if they'd just moved to the left, the other team wouldn't have scored that game winning goal." Be their parents. All they want from you is love, love and more love.