BLUFFTON, Ohio (WLIO) — Students at Bluffton University are learning the value of serving others and building character through competition as part of the school’s Civic Engagement Forum.
The event highlights the importance of community involvement while also addressing lessons learned through athletics, including sportsmanship and mental well-being.
Track and field coach Christopher Scott told students that competition can have both positive and negative effects on an athlete’s mental health.
Track and field coach Christopher Scott told students that competition can have both positive and negative effects on an athlete’s mental health. He explained that frustration can arise when performances fall short of expectations, while overconfidence can also become a challenge when maintaining focus with a lead.
Scott said learning to evaluate both successes and mistakes is a critical skill that extends beyond sports.
“Being able to understand what you did right and what you did wrong, having that conversation with your coach, going back in that film to develop understanding — it gets them prepared for the future,” Scott said. “Understanding work is going to have good days and bad days, but keeping your focus on your goals helps guide you forward.”
University officials say the lessons taught through athletics and competition are designed to prepare students for life beyond the field, reinforcing resilience, accountability and personal growth.
Civic Engagement Day activities continue Wednesday, with students participating in programs aimed at promoting service and strengthening connections within the community.
