Penn State: A lesson in integrity

I'm sure by now most of you have heard or read about the situation at Penn State University. The topic quite frankly goes far beyond sportsmanship and certainly goes beyond what I am willing to write about in this forum. However, there are lessons to be learned even in the worst circumstances. Today's lesson centers on integrity. Bruce Brown, author of the booklet A Standard Higher Than Victory, addresses integrity in terms of the example coaches should set for their athletes.  To be honest, Brown lays out a guide for integrity that anyone can use. Multiple copies of the booklet A Standard Higher Than Victory are available through our Team Players Program which you can learn more about by clicking here. Here is what Brown has to say about integrity:

Integrity is a choice of behaviors displayed in small daily decisions. The [person] demonstrates actions that follow his or her words and beliefs. Yes means yes and no means no. [People] of integrity say what they mean and follow that exact path. Their word is good, their handshake confirms the deal, and their signature is worth something. They are worthy of of respect. The first step to building a successful team is surrounding yourself with people of integrity. 

Integrity is a simple concept, and for the person of integrity, life may not be any easier, but it is simpler. It is not always easy to do what is ethically correct, but it is simple to know which path is most ethical and then exercise that option.

 Brown then goes on to use several famous quotes regarding integrity. This quote is a personal favorite from educator John Holt. "The true test of character is not how much we know how to do, but how we behave when we don't know what to do." Until next time...

Be a Good Sport!

-Sol