James Harrison has no time for participation trophies. Even when they involve his own kids.
The Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker’s two boys recently brought home student-athlete participation trophies, and Harrison immediately decided to send them back. He explained the decision on Instagram.
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While participation trophies aren’t a good idea for high school and middle school kids, there’s really no harm in giving them to elementary school-aged children. At that age, it’s about having fun and trying hard — there are no playoffs or MVP awards in youth leagues. Most kids are able to tell the difference between trophies given for just showing up and ones awarded for a real individual or team honor. They know which teams won and lost.
In Harrison’s case, it seems his main goal is to encourage his kids to work hard and consistently improve in everything they do. You can’t find fault in that.
Thumbnail photo via Charles LeClaire/USA TODAY Sports Images
