Bob Bigelow – An Appreciation
Chuck Wilson shares his thoughts on the passing of former NBA-player and youth sports advocate Bob Bigelow.
The Importance of Being Intentional
The key is to teach children the process of being intentional. To continually maintain a sense of purpose in everything they do.
Sounding the Alarm in Youth Sports – A Strategic Response
Even Field is sounding the alarm in youth sports. What are we prioritizing in coaching and parenting young athletes?
The USGA Whiffs on Phil Mickelson Decision
The response of the USGA to Phil Mickelson's intentional infraction of the rules during the third round of the U.S. Open Championship is disappointing.
5 Ways to Help Your Young Athlete Excel
Here are five ways you can help your preteen son or daughter get the best out of the youth sports experience.
The Start of ESPN Radio – 25 Years Later
Chuck Wilson reflects on the 25th anniversary of ESPN Radio including the memories he made and the personalities he worked with over the years.
Lebron’s Cleveland Legacy
Years from now, people will talk about the way in which Lebron put the team on his back and led his teammates to victory.
Warriors Mental Failures Cost Them Series
The difference wasn't in the numbers we can measure. It was in the way the two teams channeled their emotional energy. At critical moments, the Warriors lost focus and discipline.
Unintended Consequences
A story of how to win in travel sports, and the unintended consequences that it can lead to, when it's time to compete at the high school level.
Little League and Adult Egos
This Little League Softball "game-fixing controversy" is a conversation starter for parents, youth coaches, and young athletes.
After the Suspension
Chuck Wilson tells the story of how a high school athlete chose to face adversity after suspension.
The Truth and Pete Rose
For Pete Rose, dishonesty is a self-inflicted injury that will not heal.
Totally Unacceptable
The St. Louis Cardinals are being investigated to determine if team personnel hacked into the computer network of the rival Houston Astros.
Character, Culture, and FIFA
This week's revelations about FIFA's corporate culture are a reminder to us all about the role of character in our lives.
Competitive Integrity Isn’t Measured in Degrees
Competitive integrity isn't measured in degrees. Players and teams have to compete under the same rules and conditions.
Ruling Won’t Help Barry Bonds Change Public Opinion
Barry Bonds is pleased but the decision was based on point of law regarding witness testimony. It had nothing to do with whether Bonds knowingly used PEDs.
Character Helped Define the NCAA Basketball and Hockey Championships
As we witnessed at this year's NCAA Division 1 Basketball and Hockey Championships, one's strength of character is tested with so much at stake.
Character & Christian Laettner
Great, But Disliked
Christian Laettner.
The name evokes an immediate reaction. For many people, it is a negative one.
But, while Christian says he doesn’t care whether you like him or not, I believe he is hoping to change one thing about […]
A Missed Opportunity
The Way You Win Matters
It was a boys high school basketball game and I was sitting next to a father, whose son was playing for one of the teams. The father, who I’ll call “Jim”, was a former basketball coach […]
Losing to Win Dishonors Youth Sports
A Corrosive Effect on Character
Two basketball teams kicked out of the high school playoffs.
Two coaches suspended for all of next season, their coaching future in doubt.
$1,500 fines for each school, their programs on probation.
All because adult egos got in the […]
Duke vs. UNC, a Rivalry With Character
Duke vs. UNC is one of the fiercest rivalries in all of sports. Yet, the two teams and their fans showed respect for the opponent and the game.
Changing the Focus in Youth Sports
It was a typical cold, winter day in the northeast. Every available gym in the area featured youth basketball games, one game after another, from early morning into night.
I watched as two 5th-grade boys rec league teams, one team […]
A Matter of Trust
For ten years, Brian Williams has been the host of NBC Nightly News. He’s been the face of the news division.
A network’s credibility on the air starts with the person sitting at the anchor desk. To be credible, you […]
Intent to Injure
New England Patriots defensive back Brandon Browner went over the line when he said he would tell his teammates to try to hurt injured Seattle players.
A Competitive Advantage
Tim Symczek's character-driven decision in the heat of competition, a decision based on a simple belief.
An Even Playing Field
An even playing field is at the heart of fair competition.
‘I Would Like to Set Our Defense’?
It was Bill’s first experience coaching youth basketball. “Eye-opening” is the way he described it.
Bill is my neighbor and friend. He is the father of two young daughters who like to play basketball. So, when the rec team one […]
What the Sayreville Hazing Scandal Tells Us
It is a reckless and often dangerous behavior that undermines core values. It serves only to humiliate, bully, and degrade fellow human beings. Yet, hazing is a tradition that is condoned or tolerated in many group environments. It can be […]
Father John Doyle School, Coventry, RI
On October 7, 2014 Chuck Wilson spoke to parents and kids participating in the youth basketball program at the Father John Doyle School in Coventry, Rhode Island.
We enjoyed our visit with the parents and young athletes on basketball sign-up […]
Reflections on my Visit to Embry-Riddle University
This past week, I headed to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida to take part in a President’s Forum on Sports Ethics. You can view the forum presentation below.
I knew little about Embry-Riddle university beyond its reputation as […]
The Elephant in the Room (Part 2)
Youth coaches can help young athletes overcome the fear of failure through confidence-building practice sessions and by getting players more "into the game".
The Elephant in the Room (Part 1)
If we want young athletes to enjoy playing sports and achieve the most from their abilities and hard work, we need to help them overcome their fear of failure.
New England Patriots Alumni Club Welcomes Even Field™ as Nonprofit Partner on ‘Football For YOU’ Clinics
At 'Football for YOU' Clinics, Even Field will deliver the message that "How" matters in sports and life.
Sergio Garcia’s Decision: Honorable or Just Foolish?
Sergio Garcia conceded a long par putt to Rickie Fowler on the 7th hole of their head-to-head golf match Friday. It resulted in their halving a hole Garcia was better positioned to win. Was the move honorable or just foolish?
After the Apologies
After the suspension of Marcus Smart, as well as, the apologies from Smart and Jeff Orr, what should we take away from the player/fan shoving incident?
Peyton Manning in Defeat
You find out a lot about people when they go through adversity. Here's a look at what Peyton Manning may have learned from his dad about accountability and respect.
“How” Matters
The play of the Seattle Seahawks and Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XLVIII is a classic example of the ABC Wide World of Sports open with “The thrill of victory and the agony of defeat”.
The Seahawks played their best game […]
More Than a Handshake
The photograph above shows players and coaches going through the customary postgame handshakes.
The gesture is a simple one. Most athletes don’t put much thought into it. Their minds more likely are on the game that just ended. But, the […]
Our Approach to Youth Sports
Studies show that values influence most, if not all, motivated behavior.
Playing team sports gives children and young adults opportunities to develop values. It exposes them to a group dynamic in which social, emotional, and physical skills can develop. Kids […]
Athletes & the Culture of Winning
There is no denying the impact and influence of sports on American culture and on education in the U.S.
- A July, 2013 report by Economic Modeling Specialists International stated that the sports industry as a whole brings roughly $14.3 Billion in […]
Offensive ‘Trail of Tears’ Reference Provides Teachable Moment
Original Post: November 18, 2013
We don’t know what prompted an Alabama High School to post a sign Friday night at its football game that showed such insensitivity and lack of respect.
What we do know is that the school […]
The Baseball Players Union Should Take a Stand
Original Post: July 23, 2013
Instead of answering more questions about the scope of performance-enhancing drugs in their sport, Major League Baseball players could turn the conversation completely around, focusing attention on the players who want to compete within […]
It’s Time For a Course Correction, And We All Can Help
Original Post: May 16, 2013
As I embark on an exciting new path to help make a difference in the lives of young people, I wanted to share some thoughts with you about where we are and how we all […]
Our Collective Response to the Boston Marathon Bombings and What It Tells Us
Original Post: Monday, April 22, 2013
A week after the horrifying events in Boston that shook us to the core, we are left wondering why two brothers would decide to so callously maim and kill a group of strangers with […]
The Mike Rice Firing: The “Why” is Disturbing
Original Post: April 3, 2013
You’ve seen the video and heard the voice of Mike Rice.
The University of Rutgers men’s basketball coach is shown shoving and grabbing his players at practice. He is seen throwing basketballs at them and […]
Reflections on My Years at ESPN Radio
Original Post: March 12, 2013
I’ve been thinking today of the word that best describes how I feel about my time at ESPN Radio. And I came up with it —- grateful. Believe me, I know how fortunate I was to […]
We Need to Redefine Winning
Original Post: January 22, 2013
What is the one word that best encompasses the most talked about sports stories of the new year?
What is the one central theme linking the Lance Armstrong “apology” interview, the Manti Te’o “girlfriend hoax”, the Baseball […]
What’s the Motive For Coming “Clean”?
Original Post: January 14, 2013
Here we go again.
Another high-profile athlete, after years of vehement denials, confesses to allegations of cheating.
Why has one of the world’s most famous athletes decided that “now” is the time to come clean?
Coaches and Jobs: Why Not Be More Honest?
Original Post: January 11, 2013
Last week, Notre Dame Head Coach Brian Kelly described his current position as “the best job in the country —- NFL, college, high school, whatever”.
Then, he interviewed with the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles about their vacant head […]
Baseball HOF Voters Should Follow Voting Criteria
Original Post: January 9, 2013
Today’s Baseball Hall-of-Fame voting “shutout” clearly shows the difficulty BBWAA voters are having in evaluating the careers of players from the so-called “Steroid Era”.
The HOF Case for Craig Biggio
Original Post: December 27, 2012
Will Craig Biggio be elected to the Baseball Hall-of-Fame is his first year on the ballot?
The eligible voters from the Baseball Writers Association of America have until December 31st to return their ballots.
The Hall-of-Fame Class of […]
Why Recent Controversies in the USC Football Program Matter
Original Post: November 11, 2012
When you hear the name Lane Kiffin, what’s the mental picture that you see?
Is it of the coach whose USC football team still has a chance to win the PAC-12 title after overcoming five turnovers to […]
The Legacy of Joe Paterno
Original Post: July 13, 2012
My admiration for Joe Paterno had nothing to do with his Hall-of-Fame status, his record number of football wins, or his remarkably long tenure as head coach at Penn State.
It had everything to do with his […]
NBA Players Showing Respect
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
Too often we see professional athletes who act as if the sport they play owes them everything, players who have little regard for those who came before them.
So, when we see […]
The Kindness of Dean Smith
It was late December, 1978.
Dean Smith was bringing his North Carolina Tar Heels to the Rochester (NY) Basketball Classic. That team featured Jimmy Black and Mike O’Koren.
[…]
Why Do Pro Athletes Make Things Tougher on Themselves?
I’ve never quite understood why some professional athletes seem to go out of their way at times to antagonize fans, when being reasonable wouldn’t take much effort.
Were Player Suspensions From Saints Alleged “Bounty Program” Deserved?
The NFL didn’t win popularity contests with this call. Certainly not with the players, who are expressing disbelief with the year-long banishment of Jonathan Vilma.
Many fans also view the punishment as too severe.
But were the penalties for the players the […]
The Line Between Hitting Hard and Intent to Injure
Why is there a problem seeing the line that separates violence built into football, and violence that is not?
Jets Want to See How Mark Sanchez Responds
The New York Jets are widely being criticized for the trade bringing in Tim Tebow as the # 2 quarterback.
And, I get it.
“Tebow-mania” will be uncontrollable unless the Jets offense is productive and the team wins. Mark Sanchez will have […]
It Isn’t Just NFL Player Safety at Stake
It’s a simple question.
Why severely punish the New Orleans Saints for allowing its defensive players to pay teammates bonuses for hits that injured opposing players?
The answer is just as simple.
Individual Actions have Team Consequences
The Tim Thomas story extended to the NHL All-Star Game Sunday with team owner Jeremy Jacobs coming to the defense of his netminder.
No doubt, you’ve heard the story.
Joe Paterno: A Legacy in Jeopardy
The New York Times is reporting that Joe Paterno’s 46-year run as Penn State’s football coach will soon be over.
If so, it is hard to think of a sadder exit for a coaching icon.
Did Bryant Gumbel Go Over the Line in Criticism of David Stern?
Comments made by host Bryant Gumbel in his editorial on HBO’s “Real Sports” have sparked reaction from the basketball world and beyond.
Judge’s Decision Discourages Good Fan Behavior
When you only hear the results of a court case and haven’t heard all the arguments made, it is dicey to weigh in with opinion from afar.
That said, I found the ruling by a San Diego judge to be a […]
Why Hasn’t Roger Clemens Admitted PED Use?
Much has been said and written this week about the indictment of Roger Clemens on perjury charges.
Why has he been so vocal and insistent in proclaiming his innocence?
Is this a sign that he is being truthful?
The majority of sports […]
Look For LeBron to Apologize…Soon
He is too smart and accountable to leave us with the post-game image of a poor sport.
So, don’t be surprised when LeBron James reaches out to express his regret for the way he handled his team’s ouster from the 2009 […]
Respect Yourself, Respect Others
Self-esteem is under attack.
Sociologists and psychologists are now telling us that efforts by parents to boost their kids’ self worth is a bad thing. That parents are wrong to try to instill confidence in their children. […]
Competition Lost: How “Margin-of-Victory” is Distorting How We View Winning in Sports
Ask a retired athlete what he or she misses after leaving the game and, chances are, you’ll hear it’s not the “winning”but the “competing” that is being missed the most. […]
Playing to One’s Potential, Or Running Up the Score?
The aftermath of the 100-0 girls’ high school basketball game played earlier this month in Texas has taken a predictable course, with reactions of anger and disgust on one side, defiance and cries of political correctness on the other. […]
What is the Limit for Fans Today?
As a fan, is production all you care about?
If a player puts up big numbers and helps your team win, will you root for the player regardless of the player’s behavior?
Does a player’s effort or attitude matter to you? […]
A Story of Sports and Religion…of Winning, Losing, Sportsmanship and Common Sense
You would think the fence between the bleachers and the field would be enough. But often, it turns out to be too small, too weak for the force pushing it from one side. Even a wall and a moat might […]
Pete Rose Reinstatement
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
Major League Baseball denies the report, so does Pete Rose’s business agent.
Let’s hope both sides are telling the truth.
The Baseball Prospectus claims that Pete Rose has signed a deal with Major […]
Loss of Integrity in Sports
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
What does it mean to give your word?
What constitutes a promise?
Where is the line between cheating and “gaining an edge”?
Is there such a thing as a “gentlemen’s agreement”?
As sport mirrors society, […]
University President, It’s Up to You: Mission or Money?
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
You are the president at the University of Miami, Syracuse or Boston College.
You have spoken often about the ideals of your school, the meaning of student-athlete and how academics come first.
You […]
St. Bonaventure’s Problems
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
Seven weeks ago, St. Bonaventure University had to deal with perhaps the most embarrassing episode in its history.
The school’s president allegedly had overruled the compliance officer and allowed a junior college […]
Jim Harrick’s Resignation
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
When Jim Harrick resigned Thursday as University of Georgia basketball coach, he termed it a “retirement”.
Perhaps he meant it, perhaps not.
But what if he wanted to coach college basketball again? Would […]
War in Iraq Important to See
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
March is usually a month of great anticipation in sports. The NCAA Tournament field is selected, followed by upsets and buzzer-beaters, the NBA and NHL come down the home stretch, and […]
Jim Harrick and Integrity
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
Here’s a story that may give you some insight into Georgia basketball coach Jim Harrick.
At the 1997 NCAA Final Four, Harrick was a guest on ESPN Radio. It was just two […]
Refusing to Salute the Flag
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
Manhattanville College senior Toni Smith’s decision to turn away from the U.S. flag as she stands with her basketball team for the singing of the National Anthem has sparked debate across […]
Ban Ephedrine
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
Just what does it take for Major League Baseball and the Players Association to agree to ban products containing Ephedrine?
For years, experts in the field have warned about the dangers of […]
Honesty and Integrity Matter
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
Rick Neuheisel has apologized for not being more candid and says he will work hard at repairing the relationships he has damaged.
The University of Washington head football coach said he was […]
Flip Side of Celebrity
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
From time to time we all wonder what it would be like to be rich and famous, what would it be like to be a celebrity.
It sounds great.
But […]
Accountability
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
In a world where pointing fingers and blaming others has become an art form, kudos go out to Trey Junkin, who came out of retirement for the New York Giants only to […]
Being Beaten vs. “Losing”
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
The one drawback to college football’s bowl set-up is that teams wait so many weeks from the end of the regular season until their bowl game.
It’s not easy to stay sharp.
You […]
Parents’ Lawsuit Not What It Seems
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
You have seen the headlines…”Father Sues Canadian Bantam Hockey League after 15-year-old Son Fails to Win MVP Award”.
The suit seeks $300,000 for psychological and punitive damages and the awarding of “Top […]
Coaches Who Cheat
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
The NCAA Infractions Committee has placed Colorado’s football team on two years’ probation for recruiting violations.
The football program was accused of 53-violations, 51 of them when Rick Neuheisel was Colorado’s head […]
Lack of Sportsmanship
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
This morning I rise in support of Harlem Little League Manager Morris McWilliams, who admonished a couple of his young players for showboating and trash talking during the Little League World […]
Two Stories of Sportsmanship
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
Two stories this week about sportsmanship…one regrettable, the other uplifting.
The disappointing story unfolded in the Little League baseball tournament when a 12-year-old, before stepping into the batter’s box, made like Babe […]
The Role of Ego in Winning
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
This week has provided more proof of the critical role “ego” plays in winning.
Too much “individual” ego and team play suffers, but when players take their self-interests and apply them in a […]
Baseball, Steroids, and Kids
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point.
Steroid use in Major League Baseball has become the hot topic this week.
How many players have used the performance-enhancing drugs?
What effect have they had on the game?
Are the home run records […]
Poor Sportsmanship
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point,
Poor behavior and poor sportsmanship…it’s on the basketball court and in the stands. And too many colleges and universities aren’t dealing with it. It’s an “In Your Face” mentality that needs […]
George O’Leary’s Resume
I’m Chuck Wilson with an ESPN Radio Extra Point,
How much worse can it get for the Notre Dame football program? The hiring and quick resignation of George O’Leary because of inaccuracies in his academic and athletic resume have left […]