I am not a sports-oriented person. That is simply not my thing. I’m not passionate about sports, and I really don’t understand those who are, even though I have a few good friends who are very passionate about their team, their sport, and even all sports in general.

And now, my daughter is as well.

Last fall, she played volleyball on her high school team. Through the basketball season, she was a part of the cheerleader squad. Because she’s pretty petite, she was the one that got thrown into the air, making me a nervous wreck in the stands.

But very quickly, I determined that if my daughter wanted to play sports, or anything else for that matter, I would be her biggest fan, even if I didn’t “get it.”

As a result, I stepped in and helped line judge at almost all the home volleyball games. I even announced the lineups before the games over the sound system. I attended every single volleyball game I possibly could. The same was true with my daughter’s cheerleading schedule. If she was going to cheer, and especially the night the squad did the cheer dance that they worked on for months, I was right there.

That’s one of the hallmarks of a good dad. A good dad is supportive. A good dad, even though he may not “get it,” will be there no matter what, to support and encourage his kids.

Along the same lines, a good dad is also loyal. Not too long ago, I was told that one of my sons was a pain, and mean to those around. I immediately defended my son, even though I didn’t know the specifics. If he needed discipline, then that would come later, in private, ant not publicly. But publicly, I built up and defended my son.

That too is one of the marks of a great dad. Publicly praise. Privately discipline. That saves your kids from feeling too embarrassed, especially if the situation doesn’t warrant it.

The result of being loyal and supportive is amazing. When your kids need someone to turn to when things go wrong, they will turn to you. That’s because they know you are in their corner and love them unconditionally.

You become their safety net. And that is something that builds solid relationships that will endure.

So, dads, show your support and loyalty to your kids, especially in public. They will love you for it. You’ll grow to love them even more. And you’ll set the example for the other dads around you.

Be deliberate, Dad!

What have you noticed your kids copying from your own life? You can leave your thoughts in the comments section below.