Bucks’ Pat Connaughton advocates for a multi-sport approach at the AmFam Championship.
MADISON – Milwaukee Bucks guard Pat Connaughton humorously warned spectators to keep their distance from his tee shots as he prepared to participate in Andy North’s annual four-person scramble. However, North quietly praised Connaughton’s belief that young athletes should diversify their sports involvement.
Olympian Michael Phelps and former NFL MVP Matt Ryan agreed with Connaughton as he discussed the benefits of playing multiple sports, a philosophy that contributed to his presence alongside two-time U.S. Open champion North.
“The ability to play multiple sports is something I’ve always been passionate about,” Connaughton said Saturday afternoon. “I’ve always encouraged the next generation to excel in various sports.
“Participating in an event different from the sports I’m known for, basketball and baseball, is pretty cool because it shows that if you love athletics, don’t let a youth coach push you to specialize too early. Expose your body to different sports for better long-term health. Expose your mind to various levels of competition and develop your social skills by working with different teams.
“Today, I’m hoping to learn from the three golfers next to me, improve my skills, and demonstrate that you can excel in multiple sports.”
North quickly added, “Can we emphasize that for all parents out there? It’s disheartening to see an 8-year-old specializing in soccer. They have no idea what they’ll excel at. Please, in capital letters.”
