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Gidday, I’m Michael Carr-Gregg
As a child and adolescent psychologist who’s been in the business for 20 years, I’m absolutely
convinced of the benefits of club sport. I reckon one of the greatest enemies of young
people particularly children in 2010 and beyond is the whole idea of boredom. Club sport gives
the kids a structure, and it has so many advantages.
One, they get to hang out with charismatic adults. Secondly, they’re busy taking healthy
risks, and third and most importantly of all they’re actually finding out who they are.
One of the things I really like about this is that it reduces the risks of anxiety and
depression, and it can boost strengthen self-esteem. It can boost mental alertness and improve
classroom learning.
Club sports are also a great way for kids to develop confidence in a safe and supportive
environment, and test and stretch their skills.
My advice is to find a sport that your child loves. We know that children come in all shapes
and sizes, with different personality types, fitness levels, abilities and interests. There
are so many options available today -- fencing, croquet, dance sport and archery to more traditional
sports like footy, cricket, tennis and netball. You might not stumble across the right fit
first off, but keep trying. Persist and you will find a sport that excites your child
and gives them a passion. So I’m delighted to support this, Play for
life campaign. I reckon it’s one of the most important investments you can make in
your child’s future.