Sports and Influence

Growing up there was no question that the kids would play sports. My sisters and I started young. We joined the swim team the second we were able, that gave us something to do in the summer. We signed up for soccer as soon as we were old enough to play. My older sister and I did swimming in the winter while my younger sister did gymnastics and ice-skating. For years we were always involved in one way, shape, or form with sports. 

The involvement in sports taught us valuable life lessons like teamwork, dedication, and hard work. It gave us a certain level of confidence and self-esteem. It taught me the importance of being able to take on a leadership position as well as the importance of being able to take direction and learn. I had many experiences that helped form the person I am today.

Not everyone gets those experiences though. Maybe it is because of financial reasons. Maybe it is lack of interest. Maybe it’s something else all together but many people don’t have a huge involvement in sports as a kid. I know I have friends that primarily played video games or had a purely academic upbringing. Some of them were more involved with Boy/Girl Scouts as opposed to an athletic team. Each of these gives different experiences and teaches the participants different things.

Is one better at raising a well-rounded child than the other? No. It isn’t fair to say that. I played sports but I was also a Girl Scout. I played video games as well. I think the important part is having a well-balanced mix of opportunities and activities. I already said what sports taught me. Girl Scouts taught me about selling, entrepreneurship, and the importance of giving back to the community. It also taught me that I could do pretty much anything. Playing video games taught me about creativity and to question reality and the rules.

Parents need to know that sports aren’t everything. Children also need to know that. A life exposed to different opportunities will result in a better-rounded adult.  I will forever stand by sports being important to a child’s development. I believe each child should try at least one. It’s a great way to get active and support a healthy lifestyle while having fun. That and everything I mentioned before.