
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the emotional highs and lows of competitive play, or when you notice they are prioritizing winning over being a kind teammate. It is particularly useful if a child is showing signs of poor sportsmanship, such as boasting after a win or becoming overly despondent after a loss. This guide uses relatable scenarios to explain that while sports are about skill, the real victory is found in building strong character and showing respect to others. Through a lens of faith and practical ethics, it teaches children aged 6 to 10 that how they play the game matters much more than the final score. Parents will appreciate how it shifts the focus from athletic performance to internal values like honesty, resilience, and humility.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewThe book is direct and religious in its approach. It addresses the shame associated with losing and the ego associated with winning. There are no major traumas, but it treats the social pressures of childhood sports with realistic gravity. The resolution is hopeful, focusing on the child's ability to change their attitude.
An 8-year-old who loves soccer or baseball but struggles with 'big feelings' during games, or a child who has started to cheat or bend rules in order to avoid the sting of losing.
This book is rooted in a Christian worldview. Parents should be prepared to discuss how these values align with their own family's beliefs. It can be read cold, but discussing the 'Questions to Think About' sections together is highly recommended. A parent hears their child blame a teammate for a loss, or sees their child throw a piece of equipment in anger during a game.
Younger children (6-7) will focus on the concrete rules of fairness and 'not being mean.' Older children (9-10) will grasp the more nuanced concepts of integrity and how their reputation on the field reflects their character.
Unlike many secular books on sportsmanship that focus on teamwork for the sake of winning, Jenkins frames sportsmanship as a spiritual discipline and a reflection of one's relationship with God.
The book is a structured guide that combines anecdotal stories with moral instruction regarding athletic competition. It covers specific behaviors such as following rules, respecting officials, supporting teammates, and handling both victory and defeat with grace. It emphasizes that sports are a platform for practicing one's faith and demonstrating integrity.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.