Athletes as role models

Re “Character does count,” editorial Sept. 4

Why do professional athletes cop these negative attitudes? Character-building is important at all levels of athletic competition. Sure, all athletes want to be the best and win every contest, but developing dignity and integrity takes work and desire. As a former coach, I would tell my athletes that if you can’t lose like you win, then you’d better win all the time. Dodger outfielder Milton Bradley needs to stop being a baby. Not many young people become pro athletes, but they become pros in other areas. Sports help them in real life. If these professional athletes are role models for our youngsters, maybe we should look elsewhere.

CAROL CRACCHIOLO

Pasadena