In her essay "Children Need to Play not Compete," Jessica Statsky tries to convince parents that there is something seriously wrong with organized sports by worrying them about the dangers of such sports. Statsky specifies that both noncontact and contact sports played at six to twelve years of age could have long-term consequences for the child as both a player and a fan. Statsky states many reasons for her view including the risk for physical and psychological harm, the selectivity, and parents who become too consumed with winning.
             Statsky presents a compelling argument in her essay; however, her argument is flawed because she does not fully support all of her claims and she fails to take into account the arguments that most parents would voice. Statsky's thesis statement is well supported throughout her essay. She uses examples, quotations from experts, and statistics from a number of credible sources.
             Statsky's main problem with her argument is that she neglects to fully address the questions and concerns that parents are sure to have after reading her argument. Parents that were former members of competitive sports in their youths and had a good experience, feel that their children should be involved so that they can obtain the same type of experience. Also, some parents look at organized sports as a way for their children to develop better social skills and to learn how to cope with their fears earlier in life. Parents also think that by involving their children in organized sports it will help them to form a close relationship with kids their own age.
             Statsky's other major problem is that her argument is not complete because she fails to mention anything about noncontact sports. Statsky mentions nothing about golf or tennis, which are both noncontact sports that are less likely to be physically and psychologically damaging for a child. Also if they are played in teams the same b...