From participating in eight sports in high school, playing on Notre Dame's 1978 National Championship football team, to his nearly 20 years as an NCAA Division I College Athletic Director, Gene Smith truly knows the value of Athletics. In a calm, passionate, and motivating message, Smith encourages athletes and parents in the following areas: 1) Sportsmanship - how the "game" parallels life's many challenges. 2) Academics - importance of accepting the challenge of competing in the classroom. 3) The Role of the Parent - advice and suggestions for frequent and open communication. 4) The Role of the Coaches - making the most out of the player-coach relationship. 5) Resisting Temptation - encouragement to dream, stand tall and make their own decisions! Smith's message is one that will have an immediate and lasting impact upon all who hear it!

18 minutes. 2003.