More Than a Game: A 10u Lax Moment That Defined Sportsmanship

In youth sports, the lessons learned often go far beyond skills and drills, wins and losses. As a parent and coach in youth lacrosse, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve reminded young players, including my own kids, that as athletes, they represent far more than themselves. Their actions on and off the field speak volumes about their character, their families, their teams, and even the sport itself.

Sometimes, a simple act, a player cleaning up the field or helping an opponent to their feet, speaks louder than any speech from a coach. But every once in a while, you witness something that transcends even those small gestures and reminds everyone why we love youth sports in the first place.

This season, during the final tournament game for my son Levi’s 10U travel lacrosse team, I witnessed such a moment. Levi, who’s developing a passion for face-offs, took the field as midfielder. Unlike some games where I serve as coach, this time I watched from the stands, just a parent, along with all the others.

As the teams lined up, Levi recognized his face-off opponent. They weren’t strangers on the field; their paths had crossed before. What happened next caught the attention of everyone, parents and players alike. The boys met at midfield, paused, and—before the opening whistle, shared a huge high five, a giant hug, and exchanged pats on the back with genuine wishes for good luck.

In that instant, the importance of scores and standings melted away. The rivalry was still there, after all, they both wanted to win, but it was clear that respect and love for the game came first. The warm embrace between two competitors reminded everyone watching that the game is bigger than any single play or player.

Parents from both sidelines exchanged smiles. Coaches nodded in approval. For a moment, the division between “our team” and “their team” evaporated, replaced by a collective appreciation for the spirit these young athletes displayed.

When we talk to our kids about sportsmanship, we often focus on shaking hands after the game. But Levi and his friend demonstrated that sportsmanship, and the camaraderie it builds, doesn’t have to wait until the final whistle. By embracing each other before the first face-off, they showed that friendship and respect are not separate from competition, but can go hand-in-hand.

The game, being played day one of tournament pool play, ended in a draw. But, this moment will outshine any final score for me this season. These boys showed what it means to be ambassadors for their teams, their communities, and most importantly, for the sport they love. They reminded all of us—parents, coaches, and players alike, what youth sports are truly about.

If the sight of two young athletes, competitors and friends, starting a tournament game with a warm embrace can’t unite everyone involved, I’m not sure what can. But I know these boys, and the game of lacrosse, are in good hands.

- Mike (Lax Dad)