Competition is ingrained in nearly every aspect of society, from business to academics, and social relationships to, of course, athletics.

And that competition starts from a very early age. Children learn how to play simple games with one another, but there is always a winner and a loser, which is why teaching good sportsmanship is just as important as learning the rules of the game.

That is, in part, what Tri-State Baptist Temple in South Point is teaching its more than 50 child athletes in its King’s Court Youth Basketball and Cheer Program.

While the King’s Court is a faith-based program that encourages children to learn Bible verses and the tenets of Christianity, one of the main objectives of the program is to teach children to have good character.

Teaching children how to respect one another and be responsible citizens is important both on and off the basketball court.

Children are well-served by learning that winning isn’t always the most important thing, but what is important is being a gracious competitor. If they can learn that at an early age while playing sports, they are likely to show that same behavior and good attitude in school, with friends and later on in life in the workplace.

We commend Tri-State Baptist Temple for leading by example and teaching children that win or lose, it’s always important how you play the game.