I began playing sports at the age of 6 years old. Sports have taught me many valuable things, and they have allowed me to visit great cities and states across the U.

S. Today, I'm a husband, father of two (girl and boy), former collegiate three-year starter and captain in football, state trooper, mentor, and former National Football League player.

This is not an exhaustive list-just some of the things that I have been involved with and accomplished in my life. From playing sports for so long and knowing all the ins and outs, my biggest challenge now is not being on the field but being on the sidelines watching my kids.

Being a sports parent and being in the stands is a completely different atmosphere; one that many don't realize plays a huge role in your kids' sports development. I have come up with seven important tips that I've learned and developed over the years that have not only made me a better sports parent but, most importantly, a better father and husband.

These seven tips will not only help fathers but also any sports parent or family member who plays a large role in a child's life by attending sports. These tips are only my opinions, based on what I've experienced and learned over time, but trust me, when I look at my kids today, I know that, mentally and physically, they can move mountains with a smile while they are playing sports.

. .