What is CHAMP?

CHAMP, which stands for “CHaracter in Athletics…Make it a Priority,” is a program designed to create awareness of the need for character in athletics, provides resources for character development and recognize teams and coaches who exemplify character in athletics. 

 CHAMP envisions a community in which athletes are allowed to perform to the best of their abilities; parents are supportive of their teams, regardless of the score; coaches have the tools and understanding to teach athletic and leadership skills; and the team community does not feel the need to express negative emotions.  Character development is the key.

As a team, you can encourage your coach to develop a character development plan (CDP), a plan which reflects a coach’s philosophy toward character development and how it will be integrated into the team community.  The CDP includes practice and game integration as well as efforts in the outside community (i.e. community service or school environment). 

 It is highly encouraged that participating teams apply for the CHAMP Elite Team Award.  Contact the CHAMP Coordinator for more information and deadlines.

As a coach, where do I start?

Congratulations - You have decided to join an effort to positively impact our children, not only today but as future community members!

The first step is to determine how you want to integrate character development into your coaching.  We have developed a sample Character Development Plan (CDP) (see forms) to help you through this process.

 Second, it will be important to communicate to your team community (athletes and parents) what CHAMP is and how you will be conducting the season to reflect this philosophy.  Be clear on your expectations.

 Third, at the end of the season, reflect on your CDP and the reactions of your team community.  Gather feedback from your athletes and parents.  Officials can also provide valuable input.  Consider how you might improve your CDP for the next season.

What is a CDP?

A CDP (Character Development Plan) is a reflection of how you will integrate character development into your coaching.  This will include practice sessions, games and outside community (i.e. community service or school). 

Samples of CDPs are available on this website.  A worksheet to help you develop your own CDP is also available on this website.  See Resources.

CHAMP’s website provides some very helpful tools on character development, particularly developing CDPs.  A “How to run a Parent Meeting” is also available.  CHAMP is continuing to develop tools to assist coaches.

 Another resource for coaches are trainings which are offered periodically by CHAMP.  Speakers from our community speak on specific concerns: how to coach the bench, communication, how to make the cut, etc.  Please contact the CHAMP Coordinator for more information.

As a parent, how can I help?

As a parent and your child’s most important role model, supporting your coach’s efforts is of primary importance.  Consciously keeping character in your mind during your child’s season will provide a good role model and reinforce your coach’s efforts. 

 CHAMP can always use assistance!  Learn more about CHAMP through our website and contacting us for more information. Be an ambassador for CHAMP: talk to your coach and fellow parents to bring CHAMP into your team community.  Volunteer: Join us and assist us in training coaches and parents to approach athletics with character

I really like CHAMP’s mission, how can I get involved?

CHAMP is always looking for volunteers.  As a coach, parent or just a concerned community member, CHAMP can use volunteers in all aspects of its program.  Please contact the CHAMP Coordinator for more information.

How do we apply for an Elite Team Award?

First, be sure your team meets the minimum qualifications: the coach has developed a CDP and the team has signed a resolution to be committed to character development.  The application for the Elite Team Award is on the website (see forms).  The components necessary to be submitted are:

Contact the CHAMP Coordinator for deadlines. 

The Sonny Lubick Coach of Character Award is awarded in honor of Sonny Lubick, former CSU football coach.  In reflection of his years of coaching with character, each year a youth coach will be nominated and selected to receive this award.  The eligibility criteria is a minimum of 10 years of coaching youth sports in Northern Colorado.  In addition, there are award criteria which also need to be reflected in a nominated coach’s career.  See “Coaches” for the nomination form.