American Sports Essay

Americans are a nation of distinctive character which is relflected in every aspect of their lives. Thanks to their Puritan haritage they put a great value in hard work, being successful and therefore in making money. They also think of themselves as self-sufficient nation and tend to show that by not being interested in history or affairs of other countries, and praising everything “truly American”. All of the features associated with the stereotype of an American can be found in every part of their life and culture e.g. in their attitude to sports. American have a tireless work ethic. They struggle hard to achieve their aims. Working only for the sake of work is simply pointless according to their philosophy. Theodore Roosevelt in his speech to the people of Chicago said that he preaches “the doctrine of strenuous life”, life of a “(…) man who does not shrink from danger, from hardship, or from bitter toil, and who out of these wins the splendid ultimate triumph” . This practice made American culture glorify winning – being second is no better than being last. This attitude of being the best, being number one, winning at all costs and by all means is a thing that you see everywhere in the United States. That’s a part of American character in which people are brought up from early childhood. That is why USA is such a prosperous country. American athletes e.g. basketball players are devoting their entire lives to practice and honing their skills to be the best at every moment of their career which often starts in early highschool. The best go to colleges with strong basketball teams and play in the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) basketball league and then get picked by one of the professional basketball teams in the NBA draft. Making it to NBA is the dream of every kid playing on courts all over the United States. This is one way of fullfiling the American dream, and it was like this for many American athletes who are now internationally