Maribel Gutierrez Garcia
It’s heartbreaking when your teenage son has a dream, only for a coach to crush it with the words, “You don’t have the talent.” My son was so passionate about boxing—he practiced at home constantly, studied his favorite fighters, and was motivated by the dream of one day competing. He knew it would take time and hard work, but he was ready for the challenge. When he finally asked the coach he admired whether he had the potential to compete, the response he received was devastating: “You don’t have what it takes.” Those words came from someone who clearly didn’t understand what it means to nurture a young person’s dream or how much sports can build self-esteem and character. If your gym or program is only for “talent scouting,” then say so openly—make it clear on social media or when parents enroll their children. But please, don’t let other young people lose their confidence and dreams because of a careless comment. And don’t make parents witness the heartbreak of seeing their child’s passion crushed so easily.
