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CULTIVATE TEAM SPORTS AND SPORTSMANSHIP

sportsmanship

Participation in team sports and athletic activities are excellent opportunities for children to learn the principles of sportsmanship; to develop physical, emotional, intellectual, and social skills; and to acquire other important life-enhancing values. And let's not forget that team sports are also a great way to have fun. Yet team sports and similar athletic activities are often unavailable or are severely under-funded, especially in developing countries that do not have the resources or personnel to dedicate to these important educational programs.

Play is a critical part of a child's healthy development, and well-planned sports and team sport programs are a chance for children to learn valuable life lessons, including teamwork, discipline, leadership, conflict resolution, respect, integrity, self-confidence and effective communication — all while having fun. Team sports are also an opportunity for children from many different backgrounds, economic means, and social levels to come together and learn how to work toward a common goal. For some children, being part of a team is the only time they can meet and share with individuals who may have beliefs and values that differ from theirs. Participation in team sports also helps children establish friendships they may keep for the rest of their lives.

If you choose to participate in one of the many sports projects for children sponsored in countries around the world, you have the opportunity to act as a role model and to help boys and girls appreciate the value of sportsmanship and develop strong personal and interpersonal skills they can use not only to better themselves but to strengthen their communities as well.

  • In Peru, volunteers are needed to help coach volleyball, football, and basketball in local schools and sports clubs. If you have four weeks or more to spare, this opportunity could be for you.
  • You will work alongside coaches and teachers and help with competitions, matches, and training sessions if you choose to go to Thailand. You may also have an opportunity to travel with the teams as they go to various competitions. Tennis, Thai boxing, and swimming are popular, but if you are interested or proficient in another sport, your talents are welcome.
  • If you have two weeks, you can help coach disadvantaged children in soccer, basketball, or volleyball in the schools in the suburbs of Posadas, Argentina. There is an emphasis on encouraging interaction between communities. Program fees include staying in a local home and two meals per day.
  • If you have experience as a cricket coach or trainer and are fluent in Spanish, you could spend time helping aspiring athletes in Costa Rica. This opportunity is for five or twelve weeks and includes accommodations with a local family.
  • You can share your love of tennis with eager teens in Ghana. No prior coaching or training experience is required, but you must have a good basic knowledge of the game. You will work with coaches and help with training sessions, organize competitions, and work one-on-one with players. This is a five- or twelve-week opportunity.
  • In Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, volunteers are needed to coach various sports, including the ever-popular volleyball and basketball in schools. During the summer, you can help at camps with soccer, volleyball, table tennis, basketball, or other sports. This opportunity is for four weeks.

Participation in team sports is an excellent way for young people to learn valuable life lessons while having fun. You can be a part of their team when you volunteer to act as a coach, trainer, or fellow player.