Always In The Spotlight: Lessons In Leadership For Athletes On And Off The Field
In today’s world of smartphones and social media, athletes at every level are under constant scrutiny. Whether it’s in public, on video, or through social media posts, your actions and words are always being watched. This reality has prompted me to teach my 18-year-old twin sons an essential lesson: when you’re out in public, never do anything to embarrass yourself, your family, or the institution you represent.
A recent incident during a wild-card game highlighted the risks of poor judgment. A Philadelphia Eagles fan was caught on video verbally abusing a female Packers fan. The video went viral, leading to public outrage and costing the individual his job. It’s a stark reminder that one moment of misconduct can have lasting consequences.
As athletes, my sons understand they represent not just themselves but their school, their team, and their family. They are also role models for the next generation. At every wrestling tournament, basketball game, or football match, younger kids look up to high school athletes as heroes. They cheer for their victories, copy their behavior, and eagerly line up for photos with their idols.
One shining example is Bo Bassett from Bishop McCort, a premier high school wrestler who carries himself with respect and humility. Fans flock to him for photos, and he consistently demonstrates the kind of character that inspires those around him.
Athletes must remember that everyone is watching—and that includes their presence on social media. A careless post, offensive comment, or inappropriate video can tarnish your reputation in an instant. Social media is a powerful tool, but it’s also a permanent record of who you are.
The message is clear: always maintain composure, avoid foul language, show respect, and think before you post. Being a great athlete is about more than just winning; it’s about leadership, character, and setting a positive example.
For students and professionals alike, the challenge is to rise above the noise, embody excellence, and inspire those who look up to you. In today’s world, how you conduct yourself—on the field, in public, and online—defines your legacy.
Anthony Prusak
Anthony "Tony" Prusak is a distinguished business development professional with a proven track record of driving revenue growth through innovative new account strategies. A 1986 graduate of Parma Senior High, Tony went on to earn a BA in Hotel Administration from Mercyhurst University. Throughout his career, he has excelled in cultivating new and existing verticals, demonstrating his expertise in creating impactful strategies that consistently deliver results. As a committed people leader, Tony has a passion for talent development and succession planning. His skills in change management, project oversight, KPI setting, and collaboration with C-suite leadership have been instrumental in shaping and executing business strategies. Beyond his professional achievements, Tony is a proud father of twin sons, Nicholas and Noah Prusak. He currently resides in Lakewood, OH, where he continues to make a positive impact both personally and professionally.