SPORT,
How it can benefit you, and your children!
Sport
is played by millions of people across the country. From Archery to Rugby the UK is one of the most diverse sporting nations in the World. Many participants play sport because its their hobby. To others, it is a lot more important than just a casual hobby. Ultimately it should be recognised that sport often gets misconstrued to the notion that people only play sports as an act of general health and fitness, improving general stamina and physicality. Of course it does not go unnoticed that sport has countless health and physical benefits and the importance of this is highly valued. However, in a vast society with numerous factors that can impact on daily life, sport has the ability to highly contribute to the well-being of an individual, physically, mentally and socially.
to feel valued and to have some stability in their lives. Sport in general, specifically team sports is a great escape from all of this. Team sports has a myriad of interplaying factors that can contribute toward the well being of an individual from engaging with team players. The basic skillsdeveloped within team sports by far exceed merely physical benefits. Being part of a team provides a sense of community whereby you are valued as an individual, where team mates are reliant on you both at training and during games. This gives an individual a
sense of importance, making them feel wanted. Therefore, when being part of a team, an individuals absence from training or a game can impact everyone else on the team. Where they are not only missing out on important training and an improvement of skill within the sport but the absence of an individual is felt by the team members and coaches. Being part of a team develops a sense of community which in turn highly contributes to allowing people to develop personally, building confidence and self esteem.
‘With almost 50% of families experiencing a divorce, it is not just adults that experience the instability. The children in these families will also have to deal with circumstances changing within the family home. So how does sport benefit the children in these families?’
Within the hustle and bustle that fills our current community, many people struggle with structure in their lives, from family break ups, job instability and other contributing circumstances. In a demanding society, it may be hard for these individuals 45
Education One of the great benefits of being within a sporting community for children and teenagers is being able to engage with adults, through building positive and valuable relationships. This can be very important, especially when these relationships are not easily obtained within the family home. If there is an absence of a valued relationship from an adult role model who can positively impact on a child, many children/youths can thrive to form a relationship that will allow them to grown and develop personally. While participating in sport under the supervision of these adults (coaches) the children learn how to navigate safely between right and wrong during their interaction with their coaches and peers. Whether it is how to make a new member of the team feel welcomed or how to consolidate your teammates after losing a game, the children learn how to effectively deal with these emotions in a safe environment. Some children are unfortunately held back from playing sport normally as a punishment due to their poor behaviour in other aspects of their life such as school. Stopping children from participating in sports is actually a way of preventing them improving their poor behaviour. Therefore, the children who are in most need of help in developing and improving their social and behaviour skills, are actually not benefiting 46 | April 2015 | Parents
from the positive outcomes that sport can provide. However, to help improve individuals with bad behaviour, participating within team sports can help generate discipline within the confines of the sport and outside of sport. As well as developing a succinct ability to communicate effectively with both team mates and coaches, overall allowing them to improve their social skills. Links have been found that show engagement in sport
‘Numerous studies have proven that there is a positive correlation between academic achievement and students who participate in sport’ has been proven to increase the amount of years individuals stay in education. Not only were these individuals found to stay in eduction longer they were also found to be consistently achieving above average grades. One of the similarities found is that they tend to set themselves high targets. This illustrates athletes have confidence and belief in themselves that they will reach their targets, therefore working hard to make sure these are reached. This suggests that due to the discipline athletes engage with within their sport, it can then transfer into their work
ethos and ethic allowing them to strive towards high academic achievement. In relation to high academic achievement in correlation with sporting practice, is the notion that peers, tutors and coaches can highly scaffold the individual with their prior/ expert knowledge within the chosen field. This is a compulsory technique drawn upon when recognising the needs of an individual and how that can be catered for in order for them to improve. This idea can be evident within both academic achievement and sporting achievement in developing outstanding progress and achievement.
aspects of their lives such as education and work. Therefore, people who have adopted these skills through their involvement with sports can then use these as a strength within the progression of their individual career.
The National Longitudinal Survey of Youth carried out by the U.S Bureau of Labour Statistics found that males aged 32 that participated in sport within their schools were paid over 30% higher wage than men the same age who did not partake in sport. The reasoning behind this could suggest that the mentality and mind set that is embedded through sport can positively effect their working success. Individuals with this current sporting mind set (with a history of sport) can therefore utilise the skills and confidence they have adopted within them personally into other
suggest that companies and organisations look for more than solely academic achievements. In addition, personal attributes can indeed make an individual highly valued within a successful company, whereby they can capitalise on their ‘It has become ev- qualities and showcase them within their organisation. ident that the skills “The key assets I look for in developed at a an employee is that they young age through are driven, work well as part of a team and have good sports can play a social skills. Throughout the fundamental part years I have noticed that the within their employ- majority of people that I’ve ability in their future, employed, fitting this criteria either played or been this is something that have part of a sports team”. This cannot be taught in shows that companies withan academic envi- in our society, demand individuals that can illustrate ronment alone’ the qualities gained from inJason Wittering, owner of a volvement within sports, such successful chain of a Mobil- as team work, communicaity shops explained why he tion skills and confidence. thinks people who play and have played sport tend to Wittering goes on to argue “I be more employable: “Sport believe this has a lot to say to many people is seen as a about the person. A: It means hobby, and it is! But from this they are not lazy B: Shows hobby, valuable attributions/ they are used to being part attributes to the individuals of a team C: Because being personality can be made”. a team player they are more This suggests that sport can likely to have social skills and in fact highly impact on ones are able to deal with differpersonality and allows them ent situations thrown at them to stand out from the crowd. in the correct manor”. Within Wittering goes on to say a team working environment “Having owned my business it is evident that those skills for over 10 years its safe to are easily transferable and say I’ve held my fair share of highly valued by employer. interviews, from outstanding to awful! When an applicant Wittering concludes, “All of has reached the interview these skills are transferable stage it has already been in the work place, learning established that they have from experience that indithe correct academic skills viduals involved with sport that the job entails so the tend to work better within next step is to find out what my business therefore makmakes them better than the ing them more employable”. rest”. Ultimately this would 47
Social Although it has been evidenced that a child’s academic achievement is often significantly enhanced through partaking in sporting games and activities, the child’s progression within that activity is often celebrated within their own family. Sporting games allows children to demonstrate and display their own passion outside the academic confines of school. Parents are able to watch their child display confidence and excel in something that plays an important role within their life. Without the display of sporting games, parents often do not get the opportunity to watch their child strive in something that has enriched them socially as well as building their confidence and self esteem. In a growing society of working parents, often children do not get the chance to showcase their own talents that are not academically written on a report. However, sporting games allow parents and children to develop frequent interaction that in turn develops strong relationships where together they’re becoming involved with each other outside of the family household.
‘Sport is not just an escape from every day stress’ Sport is also fun for the individuals taking part, because if they were not having fun 48 | April 2015 | Parents
while playing sport they would not be able to reap the full benefits that sports has to offer. Of course sport can enhance academic achievement, self belief and social skills, I could go on. However, the core principle to remember is that sport allows children to engage with friends and ultimately
have fun. Being involved in a team is a catalyst for individuals involved to make new friends, not only the athletes but also the parents/guardians and spectators who may form friendships from watching training and games every week. Teenagers
benefit
social-
ly from playing sport as the environment it provides enables them to learn a healthy sense of competition through a positive team oriented environment. This skill can then be transferred to other aspects of the individuals life, allowing them to cope better outside of sport as competition can regularly be a part of school or work life. This partnered with the ability to solve interpersonal conflicts and work well as a team member, sport can teach much more than
just the physical playing aspect. Within sport you are more than likely to be faced with defeat at some point. Sport allows individuals to handle the defeat by looking at ways to improve their performance for next time, rather than giving up or showing unacceptable behaviour. This perseverance can then be transferred outside of the sporting environment and help individuals positively with their dealing of day to day life.
Youths that partake in sporting activities tend to exhibit higher involvement in community activities during adulthood, showing that the social aspects gained through partaking in sport can last a lifetime. This is thought to be due to the fact that the individuals playing sport during their youth, are able to pick up vital personality traits such as teamwork. They are also more accepting of people from different backgrounds and ethnicity due to interactions they may have with them while participating. It should be widely recognised that working in collaboration with different sporting communities can often break barriers regarding ethnicity, gender, race and culture. It gives many the opportunity to socialise with a vast spectrum of people, something that within the social norm may not be achieved but within sport it addresses this and unites people. The skills of tolerance and respect that are founded within the dynamic sporting community can enrich you as an individual and act as a valuable life skill that can be transferred within all aspects of life. Communities have realised that providing sporting opportunities for children and teenagers can actually positively benefit the wider community. A good example of this is over in America, where basketball courts in a deprived neighbourhood were kept open late during the long summer nights, during this time the juvenile crime rate dropped by over 50%. 49
standing of their self. It is inevitable that while being an athlete at one point or another you are going to have to deal with failure or disappointment. Sport helps the individual to learn how to deal with these difficult situations professionally and maturely. Self confidence is often improved when an individual is part of a team by setting goals then achieving them, especially in youths and this can go on to help them in other aspects of their life.
‘Exercise can improve an individuals outlook on life’
Other communities have also benefited from making sport more accessible to youths, especially in deprived areas. This reiterates the notion that sport is more than just a platform for physical development, it is an outlet for every individual and their independent needs.
is concentrating on involving 14-25 year olds in at least half an hour of sports a week. Sports England recognises the positive difference sport can make in individuals and therefore selects clubs, teams and sporting organisations. These selected are believed too benefit the communities sporting involvement from This trend is also prevalent their grants enabling these within the United Kingdom, establishments to grow and where the organisation involve more Individuals. Sports England, a well known charity, is funded by The Na- An individual within a team tional Lottery. They promote learns the value of teamcohesive aims to “create work and diversity in a very a behavioural change in much hands on way. This enyoung people by helping ables the individual to get a them find a sport they love better understanding of who and want to be part of for a they are within their group, long time”. The organisation leading to a higher under50 | April 2015 | Parents
Taliaffero’s research suggest that sport can even help prevent suicide in youths when compared to non athletes due to the athletes experiencing minimal levels of hopelessness and suicidal thoughts. This is supported by research showing that adults who exercise tend to have a more positive and a better outlook on life due to the exercise alleviating many forms of depression. The student athlete is thought to be more psychologically resilient, therefore helping them recover from problems more efficiently according to Bartko and Eccles. The conclusion made from this is that people who play sports can get away and forget about their problems while participating. Furthermore, young people that are engaging in sporting activities are also surrounded by a support group such as coaches and teammates that know them well and can spot/help them
deal with any issues if needed, giving them a sense of belonging. This highly benefits young people with peers who negatively impact on their life and can often steer them down a negative path. Whereas within a sporting environment, you are surrounded by individuals who are all collaboratively advocating a positive peer culture. This enables individuals to grow and develop as independently but with the support and nurture from peers who can make a positive impact. If a sporting group are cohesively striving toward an ultimate goal, the relationships that are built within this can underpin good practice of communication skills which in turn benefit every individual.
‘After being named in the Top 12 Most Wanted he had to find a pathway to change’ Access Sport is another charity working in and around London, Bristol and Manchester. Its aim is to give children in disadvantaged areas access to a wide range of local sports. They recognise and value the power of sport to help tackle social exclusion, inactivity and other issues in areas where help is most needed. The way they achieve this is by donating cash to inspirational community volunteers who have set up and run local sports clubs. As well as the financial support these volunteers have access to
expert advice and networking helping to create thriving This is the kind of story that clubs enabling more people Access Sport and other to get positively engaged. sporting charities are trying to replicate as they want to help young individuals pos‘Sport can be the itively through sport. The incatalyst needed for clusion of these vital charities improvement’ and organisations within deprived areas, demonstrate a wealth of benefits that One of Access Sports suc- are elicit within their charicess stories is Abdul, he ties goals and aims for the is now 18years old and a outcomes of young people. member of one of the box- Abdul’s story significantly ing clubs in London that has highlights the importance been his saviour. After the ri- of how sport has acted posots in 2011 in Tottenham he itively against the troubles was named in the Evening within his own daily life. The Standard as on of the top provision these organai12 “most wanted” from the sations have put in place London riots. Living in Hack- demonstrate and recognise ney on the NorthWold Estate the needs of the youths that he first started getting himself they attract and they sysinvolved with trouble at the tematically plan initiatives age of 13. Abdul soon joined to combat their own social a gang due to being bullied circumstances through an at school thinking that that outlet of sport. Although the would help him fight against charity is unanimous in their the bullies, sticking up for him approach to improving the self. Upon hearing the news daily lives of youth, it must he was in the top 12 most be recognised that the sport wanted he had a epipha- young people are engaged ny and realised this isn’t the with is actually the catalyst life he wanted to lead after for improving the social cirappearing in court. Abdul cumstances of many young found himself recommend- people. Yes the charity and ed to the Access Sports’s organisations have made the boxing club in London. Since sports accessible but again it attending the club Abdul is the collaboration and cohas met MBE James Cook. hesive approach and disciJames soon became a pos- pline within the sport that enitive role model to Abdul ables young people to thrive which was something he within that environment. had been lacking in his life.
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Andrew’s Story A young sportsman, Andrew Loch (22) , fell victim to the unfortunate circumstance of his parents divorcing at the age of 15. During this period his father left the family home leaving Andrew devastated and anxious which in turn had a knock on effect on his academic achievement. During this difficult time Andrew found himself engrossed with sporting activities within his school and wider communities, which allowed him to escape the
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turbulent transition he was faced with. Andrew goes on to explain “during this time in my life, sport offered a release from the stress and anxiety from the ongoing divorce at home”. Andrew commented upon to lack of quality time spend with his father explaining that “having teammates and coaches who knew me well enough offered me support and reassurance when I felt alone”. Although Andrew has been playing sport competitively
since the age of ten, he only recently realised the stability and impact that the sport offered when he found himself in need of it the most. Andrew’s sporting history is centered on his involvement in team sports such as Football, Rugby and Cricket. Since developing an appreciation for the value of sports he has recently found himself immersed within the growing UK culture that is American Football. Within his first year University Andrew was intrigued by the growing trend of American football within the UK and fancied his chances at trying yet another team sport. Having previously captained a rugby team demonstrating excellence within the physicality of the sport but also exceptional leadership both on and off the field. Loch informs us that the role of a captain allowed him to develop outstanding leadership skills, a discipline in controlling players and ultimately a feeling of strength. Therefore, he soon recognised in order for him to grow and progress within his sporting life, he would try another team sport that offered a different spectrum of needs and skills to aid his progression. Of course Andrew realised the importance of attending University was to gain greater knowledge in higher education, but he was also keen to reengage with sports. From his prior knowledge regarding the impact of sport on him, he was keen to seek involvement within the wide range available sports teams at University. Loch became fascinated
with the diverse skills set of the sport saying, “American Football is physical as well as strategic and the communication plays a far more important role than in any other sport I have played”. Andrew’s story is a prime example of how being part of a team and engaging with sports can act as an outlet for problems of daily life. He goes on to say “I get a feeling of self belief, accomplishment and release when I run out on the pitch. I forget all the problems that I have going on within my daily routine, and playing American Football allows me to unwind and clears my head”. An-
drew goes on to conclude that American football “unleashes a superhuman inside of me which kicks in as soon as I put my lid on. It really and truly gives me a sense of empowerment and I whole heartedly engaged with the sport making me feel invincible”. In a private discussion with Andrew he was able to discuss that his confidence has developed predominantly through being immersed in the sporting world. Andrew goes on to explain he sincerely values the new friends he has made through being part of the American Football team, saying “I am lucky, I have made lifelong friends, some of which
I am currently living with”. Within Andrews’s final year at University he was chosen to represent the team as chairman, whereby he was able to showcase his valuable skills. Throughout the prior two seasons he generated a wealth of sporting achievements and was celebrated as a valuable team player, who was hands on in the development of the team and was constantly willing to go the extra mile. It was down to his reliability and commitment that he was favoured for the role of chairman within the Carnegie American Football Team. Andrew explains, “I was solely respon53
sible for the organisation of training sessions, bootcamp, recruitment of team players and the social aspects of the team. I worked in close liaison with the University’s Sports Union and coaches to ensure that the organisation of the training season was delivered promptly”. This illustrates that Andrew has not only acquired outstand-
watching my peers and new members of the team improve and excel within the seasons. More importantly I have seen a difference in guys when they put their kit on and the sudden growth of confidence that is shown on the pitch. Whether they kick, catch or pass the ball they seem to release frustration and stress whilst doing so”.
utes that make him stand out from the crowd within the employability sector.
ing physical accomplishments within the rules of the sport but he has generated a wealth of skills that can be utilised within his future career. Andrew has also been able to look retrospectivley at the development and impact that sport has had upon peers and new members to the team. Andrew goes on to explain “I have enjoyed
After finishing his final season Andrew looks forward to transferring the skills he has learnt throughout his involvement in sports and delivering them within his chosen career path. With Andrew’s numerous personal qualities that sell him as a valuable individual, Jason Wittering would agree he has the desirable attrib-
teachers and community workers. For improved health benefits but also the participation in sport can improve academic behaviour, cognitive skills and be a gateway to providing social interaction, achievement while enhancing mental well being.
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With the levels of physical activity in the UK declining and a more couch potato lifestyle becoming the norm, children around the country should be encouraged as much as possible to get into sport by parents,