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Jamaican coach and broadcaster Neville Bell has called for adults to take a more active role in supporting young people, saying many youngsters simply need someone firmly in their corner.
Speaking on the No NDA Podcast, Bell reflected on his own upbringing and said that although he made mistakes as a youngster, adults were present to redirect him.
He recalled being overseas when his mother reportedly heard that he had become involved in something concerning and immediately required him to return to Jamaica.
Bell said experiences like that showed him the importance of young people having adults prepared to intervene rather than ignoring troubling behaviour.
He acknowledged that modern attitudes can make adults reluctant to correct or guide someone else’s child, but encouraged people not to be afraid of helping when their intentions are genuine and responsible.
Bell said some of the young players he coached eventually began calling him “Pops”, while he refers to several of them as his sons.
He acknowledged that not every young person can be reached, but maintained that consistent mentorship can influence the direction some youngsters take in life.
“They need us,” Bell said, stressing that adults should make more time to understand what young people are experiencing instead of immediately dismissing them as troublesome.
