WHY DO YOU PLAY?

There are many answers young athletes will give to that question, some are more obvious than others. The best answer is, "because I enjoy...."

These three words, followed by any aspect of a sport, should be the number one answer to the question. If a young athlete enjoys a sport, weather the competition part or the self esteem created by working as a team, he or she will be more enthusiastic about training and performing and will excel much quicker.

If a young athlete is forced into playing, weather by parents, peer pressure or to impress someone, he or she will not put enough effort into the sport to become an exceptional player.

For more information about successful athletes and sports participation, go to the "advice for coaches & parents" section of the health & fitness program.