Yeah, it is just football, and they are just one team out of many, but this team is so unique in the fact that all young athletes should look up to this team. As a young athlete, I never had the best role models that taught perseverance and sportsmanship. Sure, there were tons of athletes that were super good and the best, but if 'being the best' is the only advice you have to offer, you are not the best role model.
Other than my one game in our high school's powder puff game, I have very little experience with football, but even taking football away from the Eagles, they still shine through with so many reasons as to why they are the best role models for young athletes.
1. They never give up
Who would have ever thought that they would have gotten into playoffs? Not only get in, but then move to the next round. They truly started each game with a clean slate and a positive mindset. Not even just starting games on clean slates, but also each play, they didn't care that the clock was ticking and the odds were not in their favor, they truly gave their all, 100% of the time.
2. They are each other's biggest fans
This can truly just be summarized by Nick Foles consoling Alshon Jeffery after the final play in the Saints game. I wish growing up that I could have seen that kind of remarkable sportsmanship. They put their egos aside and just play the game that they love.
3. They love what they do
It is so clear that everyone there wants to be there, not for the fame or the money, but they genuinely love the game and their team. Growing up on sports teams, there were always kids who were forced there and hated it, but the Eagles love the opportunity they have and truly seize every moment.
4. Doug Pederson is the type of coach every athlete deserves
Pederson is the type of coach that truly loves his job. Of course, he loves the wins, as anyone would, but he also loves any opportunity to learn and grow as a team, which makes him one of the best coaches ever. He talks to his athletes, he lets the team weigh in on decisions and takes their feedback and will even readjust his plan if the players have a different idea.
5. They are proud to represent Philly
They love their team and they love their city. Too often young athletes are just too obsessed with the game and miss out on who or what they are representing. Too often you will hear high school athletes say they hate their school, then why play on a sports team representing your school? The Eagles teach athletes what it means to have pride.
