American traditions are as rich and unique as they are prominent. From the decorating and lighting of pine trees around late November to the ardor of the ball drop in New York as the clock strikes midnight, each ritual is meaningful and iconic in the rich tapestry of American culture. But one aspect of the country’s zeitgeist goes unheralded.  

It has plenty of admirers, sure, but does not come up as often in conversations of meaningful culture as it should. Its heritage is typically passed down from one generation to the next as each adds his or her own mark on the continuing legacy. It has grown and matured along with our country, from the small agricultural cities of the early 1900’s to the suburban communities of the 1950’s and 60’s, all the way to the sleek futuristic cities that dot our current landscape. And it goes year round, albeit in different forms, but remains and belongs in the pantheon of greatness to which America has contributed so greatly.

The wonderful tradition of American sports remains a constant virtue.

Not only does it continue to reflect the country from a cultural standpoint, but it does much to influence and educate the youth on the numerous American virtues.

Sports in America is a unique phenomenon. When people start competing, others watch in awe, from the thousands who pour into high school stadiums in the fall for Friday night lights to the millions who tune in to watch the world series.

Each provokes interest and encouragement from parents and fans.

The zest for which we cheer for our players is enough to overcome even the most substantial differences. Rich or poor, black or white, Christian or Atheist, the differences melt away when a touchdown is thrown or a home run is hit.  

Sports have been, and still remain, a bonding force that brings people together in the hopes of accomplishing a common goal. This applies well to the respective fans and contributes greatly to the positive development of the youth. It’s no wonder the majority of Conservatives view values taught in sports principal to a child's upbringing.

Responsibility and respect for authority rank high among the values taught by conservatives, according to a Pew Research Center Survey. These values, along with a plethora of others, are the type that turns unruly children into successful and productive adults. It allows them to realize the benefits of healthy competition and to learn to work as a unit to reach a common goal.

It also offers children from low-income areas a chance at a free education in the form of an athletic scholarship. Sports can offer a way out of poverty and an escape from the increasingly insulated world young men are being exposed to.

But most importantly, sports reveal that nothing good comes without challenges. It takes dedication and perseverance to reach what is desired in life.

Greatness isn’t given, it must be earned.

This has been a mainstay of the American cultural consciousness since the beginning of our history. It was there during Independence and in the fields of Gettysburg.  It was there on the Model T line and in Edison's workshop. It proved true in the trenches of Verdun and on the beaches of Normandy. It stayed alive in the garages that birthed great American companies such as Apple and Google. It remains true in each of our homes and workplaces as we strive to leave the world better than we found it.  

Finally, it still rings true on the field and in the court and should be recognized and celebrated as such.