Dr. Larry Lauer presented the Distinguished Lecture at West Virginia University’s College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences for faculty and students on February 26.
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Lauer summarized the work of the Institute for the Study of Youth Sports. Specifically, he highlighted ISYS initiatives in research and outreach. This included ISYS work in leadership with the Michigan High School Athletic Association and Detroit Police Athletic League, as well as mentor training program being developed and implemented by ISYS for Detroit PAL.
“The key messages from the lecture were the need for more evaluation planning and execution in lock-step with youth development programming, developing caring, mastery climates that allow youth to become leaders, learn skills, and better their lives, and getting out of your office as a coaching educator and researcher,” said Lauer. “Too often academics avoid getting in the field and truly understanding how their research can make a difference in the lives of the people we educate. ISYS has a practice to research to practice philosophy and this cannot occur without answering the questions that matter most to those in the sporting community. Working with our partners in the field fulfills our land grant history at Michigan State University, and more importantly, makes a difference in the real world.”
It is this practice to research to practice philosophy that emanates from the Director of the Institute Dr. Dan Gould and drives ISYS initiatives. Furthermore, it is the appreciation for ISYS’ role in the community that has enabled it to have longstanding relationships with the Michigan High School Athletic Association as well as Detroit PAL (formerly Think Detroit PAL). If ISYS is going to partner with a community organization then it will be for the long term when sustainable success is achieved.