Sports Stars of Tomorrow (Syndicated)

SPORTS STARS OF TOMORROW is a weekly "magazine" series that showcases up-and-coming young athletes whose talent and hard work are making them winners. Each episode includes a variety of news features that highlight the featured athletes' success in sports, as well as the hard work that's gotten them that far. Family members and coaches are introduced, too, allowing viewers to get a better idea of the many people involved in each athlete's achievement. Although the show focses on the players' athletic prowess -- and the awards and scholarships they've received because of their talents -- it also presents these young athletes as regular kids, many of whom spend their time volunteering, tutoring children with learning disabilities, and even being elected prom queen.

Sports Stars of Tomorrow is clearly aimed at young people who are interested in sports -- as well as young hopefuls who dream of becoming elite athletes themselves. But the series also reflects some of the realities of contemporary sports. Many more young men than young women are profiled, and the majority of the feature players are either Caucasian or African-American. In an environment in which athletes, inappropriate behavior, and greed are often linked, Sports Stars of Tomorrow reminds us that there are many good, talented kids working hard to achieve their athletic goals and to become solid members of their communities. The featured kids are truly positive role models -- not just for future generations of athletes, but for all young people.