Here is Myth #2 in my new article, “12 Cheating Myths In Junior Tennis.”

I will share all the myths over the next few weeks.

Myth

All children are inherently good and want to make the right call and do the right thing. Therefore we can trust kids to play honorably and fairly with each other.

Truth

It’s a naive fantasy that all kids are wired to act well. The pressures and expectations in a match have a way of testing character and many kids succumb to their worst inclinations.

Kids—especially young ones—need guidance and support from supervising adults at tournaments—not only on line calls but to keep score.

Unfortunately, many kids are instructed by parents and coaches to “win at all costs.”

There are many kids who are good-hearted and can be trusted, but the cheaters ruin the game for the good kids.

Chris Lewit, Prodigy Maker