Synopsis
Heir to the Invisible Throne Syndrome, a new syndrome derived from social behavior in society and the sports environment. The American Dream and Sports Development: risks, odds, hopes, dreams, and a chance of making it as a professional sports player. Young athletes are led to go against the odds feeling the strain from parents, coaches, and schools to become an heir to an invisible throne. A throne that never existed or a throne those before them failed to create. A throne of wealth of achievements, those who are doing the pressuring will never accomplish themselves. The throne is invisible to the majority; however, there are a few exceptions, we call it becoming a part of “the 1 percent.” Youth athletes often feel as though it is their responsibility to buy their mom a home, or buy their dad a sports car, or take care of the entire family. The athlete is browbeaten or encouraged to pursue a professional sports career against incredible odds, without minimizing risks, and without an alternative career plan. An alternative career plan will result in the athlete becoming a part of the 50 percent and still achieve the American Dream.
About the Author
I obtained a Bachelors in Social Work from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, a Masters in Social Work from the University of Alabama, a Masters in Justice Administration from Faulkner University, completed 16 hours of Master level courses in Public Administration at Jacksonville State University,and have so far completed one year at Troy University, seeking to obtain a Ph.D. in Sports Management. I am a mother of two sons, former athletes who took part in football and basketball from little league through high school. Our family sports career ended with trying-out for an international basketball league. I have witnessed unbelievable expectations and unrealistic goals placed upon many young athletes since my sons' participation in little league sports. I hope to change the mind and perspective of one athletic program, parent, coach, or athlete for the sake of children in sports,and sports development.
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