By Mark McGuire

February 19th, 2008

Times Union

A recent Siena Research Institute study reports three of four New Yorkers believe youth sports have an over-emphasis on winning.  That said, more than nine of 10 believe that kids can learn something by competing.

True on both. Youth sports parents and even some athletes can run amok, forgetting that a game is just a game. Here's a hint: If you think your child is going pro, you're wrong. Let's cede the one-in-a-million exceptions and move on.

But with the proper adult guidance and perspective, sports can teach kids valuable lessons about winning and losing that carry beyond any field, court or rink.

"Life is competitive, so you have to learn that sooner or later," said Tom Wilson of New  Scotland. "You have to push yourself."

Wilson's twin 13-year-old sons are both hockey fans. Ben plays Bethlehem Youth Hockey. Luke, who ambles around in leg braces due to cerebral palsy, watches.

Read on...