Jonathan Stewart Says Youth Sports Build Community Beyond 11 NFL Seasons of Stardom
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Oct 3
Jonathan Stewart Says Youth Sports Build Community Beyond 11 NFL Seasons of Stardom
1 articles · Updated · Fox News · Oct 3
Summary
39-year-old Jonathan Stewart said youth sports should help children build community, discipline and responsibility rather than chase dreams of becoming NFL or college stars.
Stewart, who played 11 NFL seasons, said middle school sports teach kids to balance practice, school and home duties while giving them belonging during an often lonely age.
Charlotte Christian School’s coaching staff includes Stewart, Greg Olsen and Luke Kuechly, but Stewart said their main job is mentoring impressionable players, not showcasing credentials.
One example, Stewart said, is an eighth grader named Jack, whose growing confidence, leadership and first touchdown this season show how sports can shape character beyond the field.
Stewart joined coaching after his daughters enrolled at the school, and he said the role has also helped connect his family to football in a new way.