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Sports are such a big part of American culture that millions of US children play organized sports. Participation in youth sports benefits children physically, mentally and socially.

Physical health benefits are most obvious. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, nineteen percent of children ages 6-11 in the US are overweight. These children have a greatly increased risk of becoming overweight adults, which often leads to high blood pressure, diabetes and other health problems. Playing sports is a great way to overcome childhood obesity by making exercise fun and helping children develop healthy habits at a young age. Researchers have found that adolescents who are regularly involved in sports are less likely to engage in drug and alcohol abuse, and children who participate in sports are less likely to smoke.

Studies show that participation in sports improves a child’s mental health by increasing academic success in school and teaching children about emotional control and good sportsmanship.

Researchers at the Institute for the Study of Youth Sports at Michigan State University found that children who play sports work harder in the classroom, learn to solve problems and exhibit good time management skills when they are a part of a team. Giving and getting encouragement and respect from teammates helps children feel good about themselves and builds a positive self-image.

While the physical and mental health benefits of sports are really important, the social benefits may draw children into sports. Children value the opportunity to spend time with friends outside of school. Social interaction in team sports teaches youth to associate with their peers, solve conflicts, and communicate effectively, according to P. Harrison and G. Naraya who authored the health article Differences in Behavior, Psychological Factors, and Environmental Factors Associated with Participation in School Sports and Other Activities in Adolescence in the Journal of School Health.

I could go on about the benefits of participating in youth sports, but the goal of this article is to encourage all the families of Lincoln County to use one of its newest recreational resources. Lincoln County offers a beautiful park, one key to a healthy lifestyle for our families.

Established in June of 2006, the First Southern Veterans Park has grown from serving approximately 500 children and families to nearly 1000, doubling in size in three short years. Our programs are designed to serve boys and girls from age four through adulthood. These programs include youth football, cheerleading, fall and spring soccer, spring baseball, softball and t-ball.

The park is surrounded by walking trails that are perfect for families to come and enjoy fresh air, striking scenery and exercise after work or on the weekends. The park offers Lincoln Countians a place to gain a sense of community pride, to socialize with peers and to enjoy health and wellness, safety and positive family time.

Sports provide tremendous opportunities for children to grow physically, mentally and socially. Participation in team sports is an amazing tool, helping children grow and succeed both now and in the future.

As the park continues to expand with facility upgrades and additional participants, I encourage everyone to become involved with Lincoln County’s Parks & Recreation programs at the First Southern Veterans Park.

Beth Ralston has been the Director of Lincoln County Parks & Recreation since June of 2006.

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