INTRODUCTION

Physical education and sport provide the perfect environment to teach valuable life skills and core values, help students prepare for college and career, and help them become personally and socially responsible. Therefore, as a coach or physical educator, you hold the power to inspire and elicit positive change in your students—in terms of not only their health but also their personal and professional lives. This influence enhances the value of the role you play at your school; indeed, it is vital to the school’s overall mission. However, physical education and sport can also provide an environment conducive to bullying. The antidote to bullying is to teach students to be respectful competitors, supportive teammates, and successful citizens. The value of these benefits—cognitive, emotional, and social development; college and career readiness; personal and social responsibility; and bullying prevention—are now widely recognized by educators and potential employers. Here are a few examples: