1. Sports

Dick Butkus Interview

Butkus Tackles Steroid Issues Among Teens

From , former About.com Guide

In addition to staying away from illegal performance enhancing products, what tips can you give the young athlete?
There are great nutrition and training programs that weren’t available when I played. But first and foremost, you must have the love of the game and the desire to get better. You need to work hard to achieve your goals and there are no shortcuts.

Is there anything parents can watch for that might tip off the use of illegal substances?
Don’t wait until then. Talk now to your kids and coaches about competing without using steroids. Most parents will notice emotional swings, physical changes, intense acne and bad breath. It is important that their withdrawal from steroids is supervised by a doctor.

Is there anything else you’d like to add that we haven’t already covered?
Take the lesson from sports and apply them to your whole life – the values you learn, the importance of hard work, teamwork and taking care of your health. There’s a lot of life to enjoy after your sports career is over.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.