I spent most of the weekend analyzing data from a survey of more than 5,000 kids and trying to determine the impact of high school sports on the values and ethics of young athletes. The report will be out soon. While there's some good news, much of the data is distressing. The irrefutable fact is, lots of youngsters are learning bad things from sports.

This was the backdrop for Super Bowl XLI. It was therefore uplifting to see our most highly publicized sporting spectacle set a new standard for classy, first-rate athletic competition.

Yes, the fact that this was the first time football's finest teams were led by African American coaches added luster to the game, but it was the way the game was played and the character displayed by the owners, coaches, and players that made this a Super Bowl to remember.

Although players on both sides played with enormous intensity, there was none of the breast thumping, throat slashing, showboating, or taunting antics that have polluted football in recent years. Everyone played hard and clean, proving that good sportsmanship doesn't inhibit great play or great passion. The Colts were gracious winners and the Bears, including their fine coach, Lovie Smith, were dignified in accepting the disappointing result. This is the way sports are supposed to be played.

And you can't get better role models than the Indianapolis Colts' coach Tony Dungy or their quarterback Peyton Manning.

I especially admire Dungy, a man of enormous character and conviction, who recently had to overcome the death of his eldest son who committed suicide. Dungy's love for football is second to none, but he knows there are more important things. He lives and advocates a life centered in his family and faith.

Thank you Colts and Bears, thank you Peyton Manning, and thank you Tony Dungy for showing us all what sports can be. You came just in time.

This is Michael Josephson reminding you that character counts.