How Sports Unite Children and Offer Valuable Life Lessons

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I find myself interrupting my son and his friends as they relax after a long day at school, sprawled across the grass like spirited young colts, joyfully darting around and playfully nudging each other.

“Your mom’s here!” one of the boys shouts to my son. I recognize him, squinting for a better look. In fact, I know all these boys, though they seem so different from the small children who once played on my lawn.

At thirteen, they have transformed dramatically. Their faces are more defined, their bodies taller, and their voices deeper, along with their styles and personalities. It takes me a moment to recognize them when they greet me.

They’ve matured, not just in height but socially—most have had girlfriends (I know, right?). Each one is immersed in texting, Instagram, and Snapchat. My son, however, is still finding his footing, often on the periphery, tossing free throws, riding his ripstick, and weaving through their long legs like a playful puppy. Sometimes I worry he doesn’t fully belong, but he shares a special bond with these boys that goes deeper than their years of friendship in elementary school.

He is an athlete.

Despite playing various sports—baseball, lacrosse, basketball, football—they are all fierce competitors who play hard and strive to win. They respect one another as friends, teammates, and rivals.

There has been much discussion lately regarding youth sports, from overly intense coaches to overzealous parents, and children being pushed too hard, too fast. Yes, that negativity exists, and I’ve witnessed it—coaches with white knuckles pacing the sidelines and yelling through megaphones. But thankfully, they are the exception.

As a mother of three boys, I live and breathe sports, especially Little League baseball. My husband proudly coaches, and I admire him on the field with his team. He fosters their growth without coddling, unites them as a cohesive group while also focusing on individual needs. He dedicates his time to teach, mentor, and uplift them, showing up for games and practices even if it means I’m waiting in the stands, dressed for a special night out (like our anniversary or something). He supports them emotionally and keeps an eye on their physical well-being. The boys look up to him, and even if they don’t say “Thank you, Coach,” I can see the appreciation in their eyes.

As my son and I leave his friend’s house, the cheerful jingle of the ice cream truck fills the air. Like magic, all these young athletes spring to their feet and gallop toward the sweet treat. They laugh and jostle each other, nearly stumbling over their own newfound height.

They are wonderful boys, and I am grateful for them and for coaches like my husband, who provide them with a positive, enriching experience that forges lasting bonds during this time of change and growth. Because despite their enigmatic nature, these young athletes are my son’s team, his tribe, and his friends. They have each other’s backs, and I know we’ll continue to see them in each other’s lives for years to come, on and off the fields of dreams.

Youth sports truly brings children together.

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In summary, sports serve as a powerful tool for children, fostering friendships, teamwork, and life lessons that shape their character during a pivotal time in their lives.