Find your influencers at the upcoming Olympic games
At the Olympics, there are stories of success and winning gold despite the odds. There are also stories of loss, failing, and missing the coveted top three spots – throughout the games. But no matter the outcome, the Olympics games present an opportunity to inspire students to be their best no matter the circumstances or the odds.
Finding Authenticity
For an athlete to be an influencer they show their true spirit on and off the track (or field or arena). Just check out track athlete Abbey Cooper (previously D’Agostino). Her name might not be as familiar as Usain Bolt but she showcases the spirit of playing to your core. At the 2016 games in Rio she collided with a New Zealand runner, Nikki Hamblin, during a grueling prelim of the 5000m race (12.5 laps). Cooper got up from the fall to see Nikki still on the ground, and instead of continuing with the race, she helped her up and they began to run together. Later on, Cooper fell down in pain, later finding out that she had an ACL and meniscus resulting from the fall, and Hamblin helped her to the finish line. When both athletes could have given up, ended the race, or been spiteful about the collision, they came together to finish the race.
In this recent Olympic trials, Abbey Cooper finished fourth in the 5000m after a gutsy race where she gave 100% yet again. Unfortunately, only the top three athletes in each event go to the Olympics in Tokyo but her spirit of showing up again and again despite the odds carries on. And this authentic spirit is very much alive on her Instagram where she discusses her victories, hardships, and most importantly, gratitude.
Relatability Matters
While Olympic competition is not a common experience for the average person, the journey of putting time and energy into a passion, whether it be a sport or hobby or career path, is something anyone can relate to. And the Olympic games is just that– a showcase of guts and passion for a dream, a place where students can find relatable role models. Plus, the pride that athletes have as part of a team, in this case Team USA, is inspiring to everyone watching.
Incorporating Role Models into K-12
At The Social Institute, we’ve seen teachers bring relatable role models into the classroom to inspire students. There are many ways to do this, like videos, presentations, or articles. Positive role models are just one part of TSI’s set of Seven Social Standards, which we use to help students navigate social media, technology, and social-emotional health.
This Olympics offers us a chance to interact with role models who support and encourage students (and teachers) to play to our core. So, join in with TSI and watch as athletes transcend sport and country as people who support one another. Find your influencers at the 2021 Olympic games!
About The Social Institute
The Social Institute partners with schools nationwide to empower students, families, and educators to positively navigate social-emotional health, social media, and technology. Schools access our student-respected, turnkey curriculum through WinAtSocial.com, an interactive, gamified learning platform. With solutions for students, parents, and educators, we offer a systemic and comprehensive SEL program through a unique and positive approach. We are proud to serve public and independent partners such as Ravenscroft School, Woodward Academy, Oldfields School, All Saints Episcopal School, Lake Forest School District, Boston Public Schools, and more. For more information on how to empower your students to make high-character decisions online and off, please contact us.