Introduction. The heart of a small town -- Game time. The essence of the game ; Triumphs and tensions -- The influence of ego. Emergence of the destructive ego ; Parents: the ego's engine ; Coaches: the ego's vehicle ; Student-athletes: The ego's manifestation -- Purpose of high school athletics. Winning and life lessons ; Parents: creating a legacy ; Coaches: creating a resume ; Athletic directors: creating a collaborative, healthy environment ; Student-athletes: creating a positive sense of self-worth -- High school athletics: a definition of success. High school athletics: the education of the whole person ; The five gifts of succesful parents ; The foundation of successful coaches ; The integrity of successful athletic directors ; The visibility, value, and validation of successful student-athletes -- Effect of youth sports. A hopeful beginning ; Building a strong foundation ; The potential destruction -- Building a mission statement. The mission -- Conclusion. The spirit within.