Encourages a life outside of school. “Our middle daughter really struggles academically, but excels in sports,” said Stefanie Eubanks, mother of three. “Sports give her such confidence and they really help her self esteem tremendously.” Kids can feel like their lives revolve around school and the people they interact while there. Playing community sports gives them the opportunity to meet people outside of their immediate social circle and gives them the confidence to develop friendships in new situations.
Become part of a team. Working to- gether for a common goal and achieving it helps build a strong bond between team- mates. “Team sports help kids identify their place on the team even if they aren’t the star player. It also teaches compassion and empathy when teammates make mistakes,” said mom Kara Thomas. Kids who are part of a sports team learn to cheer each other on and feel the same support from their teammates. They also will learn sportsmanship, compassion when some- one gets hurt, and how get along with teammates, even when they don’t like each other. The ability to work as a team is a skill that they will use throughout life in school, at work, and even in a family unit.
Praise from coaches and other players. Everyone likes to hear praise for their efforts and hard work. Receiving praise from coaches and other players as they make improvements is much different than a pat on the back from mom or dad. Kids who play sports have the opportunity to set goals and celebrate as they meet these goals both individually and as a team.
Appreciation of diversity. Team sports draw children from all religions, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Working toward a common goal, unifies the group and differences that may other- wise separate kids become less important as the team works together.
Character building. You can’t al- ways be the winner in team sports. Kids learn to lose, good sportsmanship, and how to be empathetic when your team- mates make mistakes.
Jim Carrier, soccer coach and father of two, said: “I wanted them to learn to win graciously, lose without losing, how to work together, support their team- mates, a good work ethic, the joy of vic- tory, confidence, and leadership skills. And most importantly, a place they be- long.” Kids in all levels of sports, com- petitive or recreational, have the oppor- tunity to gain priceless benefits that will last a lifetime.
Click HERE to see our Naples Area Sports Directory.
Click HERE to read an online copy of our CCPS Activities Guide.