A Parent's Guide to Role Models in Sports

As the current sports world becomes increasingly littered with countless reports of infidelity, disloyalty, gun crimes, cheating, gambling, and drug abuse, parents are left struggling to instill the proper personal and competitive values in children. The seemingly "perfect" Tiger Woods became mortal in an unprecedented fall from grace, due to his extramarital affairs. "Agent Zero," Washington Wizards All-Star guard Gilbert Arenas, faces suspension and the possibility of jail time, stemming from unlawful gun charges. New cases of illegal performance-enhancement or drug charges enter the news nearly every week.

Professional athletes are inevitably placed on a pedestal by the media, fans, and our children. Seemingly invincible on the field or court, our favorite athletes and coaches are ultimately mere mortals in their private lives. Athletes' positive contributions are far too often overshadowed by negative reports, but there simply exists no absolute way to know a child's role model will not falter. Parents must become more educated about children's role models, use suggestive influence, and emphasize the positive work of today's athletes, such as 2^nd year Indianapolis Colts' standout wide receiver, Pierre Garcon. Nicknamed "The Waiter," Garcon has not only served an integral role during the Colts' Super Bowl aspirations, but as the son of Haitian parents, has profoundly impacted the relief efforts for the earthquake-ravaged nation of Haiti.

Pierre Garcon, On the Field Champion: Garcon, the Colts' undersized 6^th round draft pick in the 2008 draft, has emerged from perennial Division III power Mount Union College to become one of Peyton Manning's favorite targets at receiver. Garcon compiled 60 touchdowns, second most in Division III history, while leading Mount Union to two National Championships (Garcon's Bio). Garcon saw limited action in his rookie season, but has developed a strong rapport with Manning during sophomore season, to the regular season tune of 47 receptions, 765 yards, and 4 touchdowns. Garcon proved electric during the Colts' AFC Championship victory against the New York Jets, (Video Highlights vs Jets) filling up the stat sheet with 11 catches, 151 yards, and a touchdown. Garcon's relentless work ethic and God-given talents, Garcon One-Handed Catch, project to a bright future as an explosive, big-play threat for Manning's Colts.

Discuss with the young athlete, during the Super Bowl, Garcon's perseverance as an undersized, unheralded receiver from a small college. Garcon's success story is a rarity in the NFL. Garcon's commitment to pursue his NFL aspirations has to budding stardom and a role as starting wide receiver in the Super Bowl.

Off the Field Champion: Amazingly, Garcon's role as a positive role model is even more impressive than the competitive accomplishments. Garcon has successfully spearheaded relief efforts to aid his parents' devastated homeland of Haiti. Garcon is working feverishly within his own foundation, the Pierre Garcon Helping Hands Foundation, and in a partnership with the Northwest Haiti Christian Mission to provide relief to Haitian survivors. To increase awareness and encourage giving, Garcon celebrated the Colts' playoff victory against the Baltimore Ravens, by proudly displaying a Haitian flag during the post-game celebration. Garcon declared the tragedy the motivation for his performance.

Emphasize with children, Garcon's selfless service to aid those in need and further discuss the Haitian tragedy and opportunities for relief. Help the young athlete establish positive personal priorities, both within sports and in daily living.