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Thomas Rasmussen
Professor Jaime Tigue
PHYE 160 C01W
28 October 2015
Physical Education Reflection
Physical education (PE), exercise, and sport science is a progressively developing field
which requires training, preparation, understanding and dedication. This field has undergone an
exploration of breakthroughs but has also experienced its hindrances and stumbling blocks.
Future and current professionals are obligated to investigate and analyze the historical methods,
philosophies, trends and future opportunities that effect the development of this field.
Recognizing and applying the whole context of PE, fitness and sport is absolutely necessary for
me as I begin my journey of becoming a professional in this ever-growing career field.
Historical Practices, Philosophies and Trends
The historical beginning of physical education and exercise is unlike and almost
unimaginable of what is observed in todays society. The necessity of physical activities often
presented a life or death scenario for the earliest participants. Most of these activities are called
survival skills, although as time progressed these activities became recreational (Freeman 84-85).
The status of physical education and sport dramatically changed when early civilizations began
to advance. No other civilization had a greater impact than Greece. The Greeks are seen as the
first people to make drastic improvements regarding physical education. The Greeks were so
concerned with exercise and physical education that they are known as the founders of the
Olympic Games (Freeman 92).

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The following civilization after the Greeks were the Romans. This moment in time was
absolutely critical in concern for the future of physical education. The Romans are highly
responsible for valuing sport as a form of entertainment (Freeman 101). We see a form of this
through the Roman gladiator fights, in which men, women and animals would fight to the death
for the entertainment of the Roman citizens. In fact, Kristin Lewis says, Romans regarded these
games with the same sort of glee that we might experience when our favorite baseball team
makes it to the World Series (18). As we have seen, the Romans have played a huge part in
shaping the history of physical education, fitness and sport.
The legacy of the Romans and Greeks can be seen in our culture today. There are some
who participate in sport as competitors (athletes) and then there are some who view it as a form
of entertainment. In most cases, it is seen as both competition and entertainment. In my opinion,
both spectators and competitors are of equal importance in sport. They work in unison as
spectators create a platform for athletes, while athletes provide a sense of enjoyment for
spectators.
Changing Philosophies in Physical Education, Fitness and Sport
Physical education and sport have encountered numerous philosophies in its history.
There is great importance concerning philosophy, because without it, PE and sport would lack
the necessary structure to support itself in our society. Indeed, without philosophy in sport,
values and sportsmanship would cease to exist. Issues such as cheating in professional or
collegiate sports would hurt the integrity of our field. Its also important to realize that not all
philosophies have always been perfect. In fact, most philosophies in PE and sport were
developed because of immoral and corrupt failures involving the respectability of our field. For
example, there have been many issues concerning sport and racism. The United States of

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America saw a breakthrough in its philosophy through the sport of baseball and Jackie Robinson.
The Sheppards comment on Jackie Robinson by saying, A new era dawned in which, over the
next two decades, African-American players streamed into the league, with many becoming the
leagues best players (199). Its important to recognize that philosophy will continue to change
and improve in the future.
Although philosophy is imperative for PE, fitness and sport, this doesnt stop many
different philosophies from clashing. Basically, there are five major philosophies in PE:
naturalism, idealism, realism, pragmatism and existentialism (Freeman 233). I believe many of
these philosophies have great elements, but I also disagree with some aspects as well. Most of
these philosophies are individual oriented which to a degree is very healthy. Every student and
athlete is very important to society, therefore, the educational process should be geared toward
their overall health and well-being. With that said, this individualistic approach can be taught
improperly. I fear that extreme attitudes of individualism can evolve into a selfish society in
which many students and athletes feel they have a sense of entitlement. Radical individualism
takes away character traits such as teamwork, perseverance and sacrifice. We must find the right
balance between individual and group oriented educational processes.
Past Experiences in Physical Education, Fitness, and Sport
Most of my values and character have been developed through PE, fitness and sport.
Throughout my life I played many sports but I developed a special passion for football early on
in my life. I loved everything about the game. I played football throughout most of my high
school career where it taught me many important character traits such as teamwork, trust,
preparation, and accountability. This is one of many reasons why I want to work with sports
because I believe that it can radically change lives of many youth and young adults.

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The greatest experiences Ive received from PE and sport have come from my high
school football coach. Throughout my entire life Ive grown up without a father, however, many
men in my life have taken the responsibility of being a father figure, this includes my coach.
Through football he has taught me many important lessons like accountability. For example, we
as players were held accountable to each other and coaches. As a result, we were required to
perform our responsibilities such as the following; show up to practice on time, study the
playbook, and work to the best of our abilities. Without my coach, Im absolutely sure that these
traits wouldnt have been chiseled into my character. I have observed and witnessed many young
men including myself, look up to their athletic staff as more than just coaches but as mentors and
father figures.
Although Ive had great experiences with PE and sport there has been some major
problems that Ive observed. Unfortunately, drugs and alcohol have sneaked their way into the
realm of physical education, fitness and sport. In the same way, I have seen them wreak havoc on
some of the athletic teams Ive been a part of. For instance, at one point in my high school
football career a group of players were caught doing drugs. This not only damaged their personal
life, it hurt their teammates and coaches as well. The drug and alcohol trend in sports has been
something that sickens me because it injures not only their athletic career but their family and
friends as well.
Professional Opportunities
Freeman analyzes three main professionals in the growing field of Physical Education:
traditional professions, disciplines and new professions (48). I am currently training and gaining
skills to work in the new professions of PE, particularly in sports business and management.
There are many careers such as sport marketing, finance, facility management, consultants and

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agents. These occupations are linked to many different degrees and stages of expertise. For
example, a sports marketer could work for an organization like Nike, while a sports information
director could pursue a job with a university. With a bachelors degree in sports management I
could seek an entry level job at most colleges and organizations. However, as my education
increases, the likelihood that I could obtain a highly preferable job expands. For instance, instead
of landing a job as a market researcher I may find myself working as the manager of the
marketers.
I have seen many trends in sports business. In fact, equipment and facilities are growing
and advancing every year. As a result, sport managers need more qualifications and capabilities
to handle the growth of sports and PE. Freeman describes these qualifications as, an
understanding of the facilities and equipment needed for the activities, plus the business skills
necessary to handle budgeting, staffing, and other administrative tasks (322). As long as sports
continue to be the major form of entertainment for Americans, there will be an abundant amount
of jobs and opportunities for future professionals.
Professionals in the field of PE and sport, particularly in sports management require a
great deal of knowledge and skills revolving around exercise science and business administration
(Freeman 322). I have personally attained many significant skills at the College of Southern
Idaho through the sports management program. For example, through a sport safety course Ive
learned how to critically examine athletic facilities that pose dangers and threats to the
community. Additionally, Ive taken economics classes that have influenced the way I look at the
economy; this is very crucial because I may be making financial decisions for my employer in
the future. Although Ive gained these qualities, there are some skills that need improvement in
order for me to be successful in the sports business world. For example, I have had leadership

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roles in sport as an athlete but Ive never held the task of leadership as sports manager. I believe
as my education advances my leadership abilities will increase. In short, there are many skills
that are needed for these professions, most of which are used in all PE and sport settings.
Professional Goals
As my skills and knowledge evolve, I hope to accomplish many goals in my career. The
formula of goal setting involves two major principles: short term and long term goals. The long
term goals are by far the most popular, they usually have big dreams, hopes and aspirations
attached to them. On the contrary, many long term goals arent accomplished because they lack
the second essential variable; short term goals. The short term goals are the duties that a majority
of people overlook when planning a career. For example, many future sport managers have a big
dream of becoming an NFL (National Football League) agent or perhaps the CEO of Adidas.
However, they fail to plan short term goals like earning a bachelors degree in Sports
Management. They may also fail to realize that in order to become a CEO they first must enter a
company or organization at an entry level job. In order for myself to achieve big aspirations I
must first accomplish my short term goals.
Some of my short term goals involve expanding my knowledge and skills in PE and
sport. I am currently studying sports management at the College of Southern Idaho (CSI) where
Im planning to receive my associates degree in the spring of 2016. As far as longer short term
goals, I plan on attending Idaho State University (ISU) where I would earn my bachelors degree
in Physical Education with a Sports Management emphasis. I believe that these institutes will
provide the necessary training to become a successful sports manager. With all this said, my
short term goals will always revolve around my ambition to become an improving professional
in my field.

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My long term goals are the distant aspirations and hopes that Ive had since Ive wanted
to be a sports manager. One of these goals, include landing my first job as a professional in PE
and sport. My dream job would be to work as a sports consultant. I would like to help athletes
make desirable choices that would benefit their overall health and wellness. This consists of
monitoring and guiding their overall physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well-being. In
order to achieve this goal I plan on getting my masters degree in Sports Management from
Liberty University. This will give me the skills I need to help athletes make healthier lifestyle
decisions. The farthest goal in my sights is to positively impact the future of PE and sport. I
believe I can do this by working hard, setting attainable goals, and persevering through any
obstacles that I face.
Physical Education, fitness and sport has drastically changed my life in a positive way.
This is a big reason why Im pursuing a career in this field; I would like to substantially improve
and enhance an athlete or coachs physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health. This can only
be attained through training and education provided by great institutes like the College of
Southern Idaho. As my journey of preparation for this career continues, I am filled with
anticipation and excitement for the future of my field.

Work Cited

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Bailey, Joanna Shepherd, and George B. Shepherd. "Baseball's Accidental Racism: The Draft,
African-American Players, and the Law." Connecticut Law Review 44.1 (2011): 197258. Academic Search Premier. Web. 4 Dec. 2015.
Freeman, William H. Physical Education, Exercise and Sport Science. Burlington: Jones &
Bartlett Learning, 2015. Print
Lewis, Kristin. "What If The Hunger Games Were Real?." Scholastic Scope 60.13 (2012): 1719. Academic Search Premier. Web. 4 Dec. 2015.

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College of Southern Idaho Physical Education Program

PHYE 160 Introduction to Physical Education

Reflection Essay Assignment Sheet & Checklist
Assignment:
For this assignment, you will discuss the historical practices, philosophies, trends, and
professional opportunities in physical education, fitness, and sport and how they have influenced
your professional philosophy and development. You will also discuss what you hope to
accomplish as a professional in your chosen field.
To fulfill the minimum requirements of this assignment, please address the items below,
checking them off as each is completed. Because your essay will be a direct reflection of your
qualifications as a developing professional, your essay should be engaging, well supported, and
well written.
When you submit your essay, please submit this assignment sheet (in a separate
attachment) with the items below checked off.
Page Length:
x Five to seven pages (including the title page and reference page)
Format:
x The essay includes a title (centered, no italics)
x The essay includes a cover sheet that follows APA or MLA format
x 12pt/Times New Roman font
x Each paragraph is indented 5-7 spaces
x 1 margins (top, bottom, right, and left (no right justification)
x Subtitles are formatted correctly (flushed left and italicizedExample: Historical Practices,
Philosophies,
and Trends)
x References and quotes are cited using APA or MLA in-text citation and a proper reference
sheet
Mechanics/Usage
x Grammatical, punctuation, and mechanical errors do not disrupt the flow or clarity of the essay
x The essay is free of proof-reading and spelling errors
x The essay contains sentence variety
Introduction/Conclusion:
x The introduction clearly introduces the topic (uses key words that reflect the writing
assignment)
x The introduction presents a focused thesis statement
x The conclusion brings the essay to a graceful close
Development:

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x Supporting points are developed with ideas from the writers readings, own experience,
knowledge, or
observation.
x Supporting details and examples are present.
x Each of the following sections are discussed in two (or more) paragraphs per subtitle.
Section One:
Historical Practices, Philosophies, and Trends
x In your field of interest, review the historical practices in physical
education, fitness, or sport.
x How have these practices influenced your professional philosophy?
Section Two:
Changing Philosophies in Physical Education, Fitness, and Sport
x In your field of interest, review the changing philosophies in physical
education, fitness, or
sport.
x What philosophies/theories are compatible or at odds with your beliefs, values,
or views?
Section Three:
Past Experiences in Physical Education, Fitness, and Sport
x What was your best experience in physical education, fitness, or sport and
why?
x What was your worst experience in physical education, fitness, or sport and
why?
How have these experiences contributed to your professional development?
Section Four:
Professional Opportunities
x In your field of interest, review the current trends and professional
opportunities in physical
education, fitness, and sport.
x Transferable skills (skills that have application to many fields/careers), such as
speaking,
writing, public relations, budget management, computer and technology skills,
scheduling,
leadership, etc., are often important components, if not requirements, for
careers in physical
education, fitness, and sport. What qualities/skills are needed for your field of
interest?
x Do you posses these skills? Explain.
x What qualities/skills do you need to develop and how will you acquire them?
Section Five:
Professional Goals

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x What do you hope to accomplish as a professional in your chosen field?

x What are your short-term goals? (Describe how you intend to achieve these
goals.)
x What are your long-term goals? (Describe how you intend to achieve these
goals.)