Children are also being diagnosed with more and more overuse injuries. Concentration on one sport has undoubtedley contributed to this phoenomenon. Kids actually become better athletes when they can play multiple sports and practice multiple movement patterns. Exclusion is another unintended consequence of over-specialization. Kids who simply want to play a sport are left out for those who can “fully commit.” Coaches and parents should encourage kids to play multiple sports. If football players participated in track and field, the results would benefit the track team as well as the football team.
Football players must develop a degree of toughness; which is extremely useful in the sport of wrestling. Team sports teach unselfish behavior while individual sports teach personal responsibility. Sports have applications to other sports. There is no need for kid not to experience other sports. Variety also helps kids avoid burnout. A break from a sport, even their favorite sport, lets children come back with a renewed vigor once the new season begins. Encourage kids to try a new sport. Until next time…
Be a Good Sport!
-Sol