Invoked in sports reporter Wesley Remmer’s story this week on the pressure young athletes feel from their parents (“When young athletes face pressure from parents”) is the example of legendary New York Yankees switch-hitting phenomenon Mickey Mantle.

Most touching, most disturbing, was the quote the Mick left for his fans, “Don’t be like me,” meant for the legions of kids who looked up to him, despite an addiction to alcohol which cut short a brilliant career and life.

It is a reminder that what is said — and more importantly, what is shown to young people — sticks with them.

Youth sports are about character, and mothers and fathers should be involved. But the point should not be lost, and the point isn’t about winning.