More than a game – why all kids should play organized sports

I cannot believe my oldest child will be graduating from high school in just a few months! It is hard to believe that my baby will move on to the next chapter of his life. And he will no longer need me the way he did for his first 18 years of life.

We are doing all the “lasts” with him, stirring up so much emotion. Recently, we were at his last high school wrestling match, and it all boiled over. I started thinking about everything the sport gave him. He has learned leadership, loyalty, teamwork, and so much more.

Our middle son loves to play basketball, and he didn’t think he would be good enough to play in high school, so he became “comfortable” with the thought that he would play competitively till he couldn’t anymore, thinking his Freshman year would be his last. But would still pursue pick-up games for fun on Y-night or at his buddies’ houses.  We have been to a few high school varsity games this year and saw the players who were on the bench.

They didn’t get much playing time, but he saw their talent and attitude when they did get put in the game. The lightbulb must have gone off because shortly after he told us he wants to continue no matter what, he is now comfortable with riding the bench but remaining loyal to his friends and teammates. He is only in 7^th grade, so if he sticks with it and continues to practice, I think he may continue to surprise himself. In his own words, his grade’s chemistry is unmatched by upperclassmen, so he sees the opportunity and is willing to work to change his future.

The youngest Garcia is a hockey player. This year, his team made it to the State Championship. They lost their first game, which pushed them to the “Consolation Bracket,” in layman's terms, the “Losers” bracket. But when they were crowned the “Consolation Champs,” it didn’t matter. He was sad after the game, but it wasn’t because the trophy didn’t say “State Champions,” it was because it was the last game of the season, and he doesn’t want to be on a team without his friends next year. The teams aren’t predetermined by age; you don’t get to choose. Tryouts determine which team you are on, and nothing is guaranteed. He values friendships over the more prestigious team.

The benefits aren’t just for the kids. Some of our proudest moments as parents aren’t when the trophies are handed out but when we see their passion grow year after year. When they work on something and find success in doing it during the game. Like all those net shots in the basement, baskets in the driveway, or the weight room instead of hangouts or screen time. The adversity they face in the “game” builds character to face adversity in life.

And the best part is they haven’t even experienced the greatest gift sports will bring them… that will manifest when they become parents, and they can share their love and knowledge for the game with them.

It’s more than just a game; let your kids play organized sports.

All my love,

Nichole Garcia

Original post on 3/24/23