Holding back tears as he spoke to his mother about his experience at school, Keaton Jones asked, “Why do they bully? What’s the point of it?” Her video of that conversation has been seen by over 20 million people over the Internet.
October was the National Bullying Prevention Month. Did that make any difference in your school? Ask your team where they see the most bullying. What’s the answer: why do people bully others? Why do people use social media to gossip and call others names? Discuss the difference between good natured trash talking or teasing and bullying. What are the differences? Can anyone name a time when he or she stood up for the person being bullied? Can anyone name a time when they saw someone else stand up for someone being called names? What does the Code say? The Code says, “I will respect the dignity of every person and will not be abusive or dehumanizing of another either as an athlete or as a fan…” and “I will be a positive influence on the relationships on the team…” There are two ways to prevent bullying: one is not to do it, and the other is to challenge those who do and to side with the person being bullied. Ask your team: will you show leadership in the school, or wherever you are?
