November 28, 2016
by Jayson Kohler, Sports Administrator, Basketball Coach

Sports at any level are a great way to keep people in shape and even help build new relationships between people who share a similar love or passion for the game, but why is it so critical for all kids to at least get a taste of what it means to be an athlete? The answers are many.

First, sports can be a vital part in teaching a young boy or girl the importance of discipline and structure in their life. Many kids find begin their athletic experience just around the same time they really begin going to school as well. While school handles the responsibility of teaching kids structure in school, sports has the critical role of showing kids discipline and structure outside of the classroom. A good coach can play a crucial role in a young boy or girl’s development.

Second, the importance of teamwork is always stressed in youth sports. This is a lesson that can never be stressed enough. Whether your child grows up to be a professional athlete, or a successful businessman or woman the value of being a team player is never forgotten. A great coach or even owner of a company will know that their team can only work at its best when all the members of the team are willing to do their part for the betterment of all.

Finally, the role that sports play in the physical and mental health of a child cannot be ignored. Sports are a great way to help any child develop lifelong fitness habits that they can enjoy. Not all people have a burning desire for lifting weights or doing cardio just for the sake of staying in good shape, but if you can find a sport or activity that you truly love it can be a great way to get in that cardio or strength training we all need without feeling like we are laboring through a workout routine we may not enjoy. Aside from the physical fitness, sports are a great way to keep the mind sharp as well. Numerous studies have linked athletic strength with academic success as well. This is not to say that winning and losing makes you smarter, but studies have linked groups with higher cardiovascular strength and endurance to having higher academic standings than groups with the lowest standing cardiovascular health.

All things considered, sports is crucial part of almost any young child’s development and if your child is playing sports than keep encouraging them to do so! Whether they are the best athlete out there, or not, be proud that they are out there learning and growing because no matter how many wins or losses they get, they will be taking away invaluable life lessons that all people should have.