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The Potential for
Prevention through the Athletic Program
Prevention of alcohol and drug use problems has never been the
primary goal of athletic and other activity programs; however, failure to see their
potential for prevention would be to miss a unique opportunity to assist young people with
alcohol and drug use decisions. The following concepts have been developed as a result of
findings completed by experts in the field of chemical dependency, public health,
athletics and education:
- Sports of all types and at all levels are highly visible activities that present an
extraordinary opportunity to affect not only the participants but society as a whole.
- Sports figures are role models for young people. The impressions they give have a
powerful influence on the attitudes of young people in our society.
- A program of health promotion and health problem reduction is consistent with the goal
of excellence pursued by the athletic community. The elimination or even the reduction of
alcohol and other drug use from athletics is compatible with the public's goal and would
gain broad public support.
- Sports provide an ideal setting to teach young people how to identify and cope with
their feelings under a variety of stressful conditions.
- Sports provide a laboratory for learning about mind/body integration to maximize
performance.
- Sports provide an opportunity for athletes to develop self-esteem while learning skills
and strategies that will carry over into every aspect of life.
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