The link between grass root sport participation and teaching children skills for life

Through my experience in playing, coaching and teaching sports over the past 15 years, Ive learnt that participating in sports is not just a

bout the physical activity, but it can also be a great way for children to develop important life skills. As children grow up, they need to learn how to interact with others, be a part of a team, and deal with successes and failures. Sports can help them develop these skills and much more.

Team work

Participation in sports can teach children the importance of teamwork. In any sport, players must work together to achieve a common goal. This means that children will learn how to communicate effectively, trust each other, and rely on one another to succeed. By working together, children can learn how to collaborate and contribute to a team effort, which is a valuable skill that they can carry with them through life.

Responsibility

Sports can help children develop a sense of responsibility. When children participate in sports, they must attend practices and games, be on time, and work hard to improve their skills. This requires dedication and commitment, which are important values to instill in children. By practicing responsibility in sports, children can learn how to be responsible in all areas of their lives.

Resilience

Participating in sports can teach children how to deal with success and failure. In sports, children will experience both wins and losses. This can help them learn how to cope with disappointment and develop resilience. Children can also learn how to handle success and be gracious winners. These skills will be useful throughout their lives, as they learn how to deal with success and failure in various areas.

Discipline

Lastly, sports can help children develop a sense of discipline. In order to succeed in sports, children must be disciplined in their approach. They must practice regularly, maintain a healthy diet, and take care of their bodies. This discipline can translate into other areas of their lives, such as school and work.

Participating in sports can help children develop important life skills that will be valuable throughout their lives. By learning how to work as a team, be responsible, deal with success and failure, and develop discipline, children can become well-rounded individuals who are prepared to face the challenges of the future

Bevan De Vries

Youth Sports Australia