The prevention component encourages youth participation in sports as a tool to prevent drug use. The prevention component is based on the principle that the involvement of coaches, athletes, and parents will prevent the use of performance-enhancing substances and other illegal drugs. Each year, millions of youth are involved in organized athletic activities. Studies show that a young person involved in sports is 40 percent less likely to get involved with drugs than an uninvolved peer.
Youth look up to their coaches and other athletes.
These role models have a unique opportunity to present a positive message about drug use prevention. The use of illegal drugs and performance-enhancing substances is harmful and can interfere with family life, school work, social life, and sports performance. Do not cheat by doping. Athletics provide young people a positive opportunity to get involved and be part of a team, build self-esteem and character, and learn that their futures are too bright to waste on drugs. By providing safe afterschool and weekend activities, athletics can also help shelter young people from peer and other societal pressures to take drugs.