The games are upon us! The JCC Maccabi Campus Games, which are being proudly hosted this year by JCC Pittsburgh in partnership with the University of Pittsburgh, have begun. This incredible event brings together Jewish teen athletes from across the country (and beyond!) to compete, connect, and represent their communities.
It’s electric. It’s inspiring. And, it completely lights up the part of me that thrives on energy, teamwork, and a little healthy competition. You may have heard me mention once or twice… I’m a little competitive.
A friend once told me, “Winners keep score.” That phrase has always stuck with me. But, as I’ve grown (and coached), I’ve come to realize it’s not quite as simple as the scoreboard might suggest.
In the world of Positive Intelligence, keeping score isn’t about being the best. It’s not about judging, comparing, or fixating on outcomes. It’s about monitoring and paying attention with intention.
Successful people and athletes keep score to build awareness. They monitor how they’re doing, where they’re growing, and where there’s an opportunity to try something new. They keep score so they can:
- Applaud the effort, not just the result.
- Celebrate progress, not perfection.
- Stay honest and curious—not self-critical
- Try something new
They use their growth brain, the part of us that approaches challenges with empathy, curiosity, and creativity. That’s the scoreboard that matters!
The Maccabi athletes are showing us how it’s done. Each of them comes with their own version of a win. Maybe it’s beating a personal best. Maybe it’s returning after an injury or setback. Maybe it’s just stepping onto the field and showing up despite nerves.
They’re tracking growth. They’re reflecting and resetting in real-time.
Sure, I still love watching the medals, the points, the fastest time—but I’m most inspired by what we can’t see on the scoreboard: the learning, the grit, the team spirit, the growth mindset that’s shaping who these young athletes are becoming. I encourge you to tune in. Come support. Applaud these amazing teens who are keeping score in the best kind of way. Athletes, thank you for reminding me why and how to keep score. You model what it looks like to be a real winners!
Carolyn Kontos, MS, ACC, offers Wellness & Nutrition Coaching at the JCC through her Eat Well Programs. For more information, contact Carolyn at [email protected]
