As a competitive coach and owner of recreational youth sports programs, I’ve been able to see the value that can come from both competitive and non-competitive sports. How can kids just have fun with youth sports. I’d like to highlight three of the benefits of participating in non-competitive sports and encourage parents to get their youth involved.
- Learning Values– One of the great joys of participating in sports are the life lessons that are taught. Participation in non-competitive sports can help youth to learn sportsmanship, working together, following rules, building self-esteem, interacting with others, and so much more.
- Equal Playing Time– As a parent it can be frustrating to attend a game, only to see your child play for a short time or maybe not at all. Getting equal playing time allows kids the opportunity to learn how to play in game situations and allows the parents a chance to see their child perform.
- Just having fun! Participation in competitive sports can be a grind for both the student and the athlete with daily practice, workouts, fundraiser’s, camps, and games. It can be fun for a change of pace to try something new or just get out their and play.