Youth sports leagues offer young people the chance to take part in competitive sports while being led by competent and knowledgeable leaders who are experienced in their sports. As a result, taking part in youth sports organizations can be quite beneficial for young children. However, if they are associated with coaches who take part because they want to win or have parents that pressure them to outperform the other children, it can ruin the experience.
Teamwork
One of the most beneficial aspects of playing organized Little League sports is learning the value of teamwork. Youngsters learn that a baseball player can make a big contribution to his team even if he does not get the game-winning hit or score the winning run. A player may hit a ground ball that allows a teammate to move up on the basepaths and then score the game-winning run. That player is just as responsible for helping his team win as the player that drove in the winning run. Understanding this at an early age can help a person throughout his life.
Exercise
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that childhood obesity tripled in the U.S. between 1978 and 2008. One of the primary reasons for this is that many young people don't get enough exercise. Playing organized sports can help keep youngsters healthy and in good condition. Players don't have to be stars to get the benefit of the exercises. They just have to run around and exercise while participating to improve their overall conditioning.
Friendship
Building strong friendships is another benefit of participating in youth sports. Girls who play on the same youth softball or basketball team may become friends and the shared experience of trying hard and competing together can forge a strong bond. Playing sports can create memories that stay with a young person for decades. It can help the youngsters become strong friends when they share the wins and losses together.
Negative Impact
While there are many positives to playing youth sports, it can be painful if the wrong people have a negative impact on young children. The Little League coach who is tired of finishing second may shun a player who is trying his best but slumping in the batter's box. This is no way to treat a young person. A parent who feels ashamed because his daughter missed two free throws when the game was on the line needs to examine himself and his parenting methods. When children ridicule another teammate who struck out with the bases loaded can do serious harm. Responsible adults will do everything in their power to make playing organized Little League sports positive for all who take part.
