The More Youth Sports the Merrier
There are many benefits to being a multi-sport youth athlete. We have written about it in the past, and we will continue writing about it in the future. The game of softball is continually changing and evolving. Softball, which used to be a seasonal sport in many states, is now being offered as a year-round opportunity.
Most club softball programs now offer winter training on top of the fall and summer seasons. This will often raise the cost of the program and will require more time from the participating athletes. Not all club programs operate the same way. It’s important to do your research before committing. There is always the right fit for each athlete.
Softball does not need to be a specialized sport at a young age. College coaches recommend softball players participate in their other sports for as long as they can. Below are five benefits of being a multi-sport youth athlete.
Develop Athleticism: Being involved in multiple sports will give athletes a chance to develop athleticism and coordination. Every sport is different and requires different muscle groups to be used. The youth athletes who are involved in multiple sports will have a chance to develop skills that can be applied to the other sports they play.
Make Friends: When athletes are involved in multiple sports, they will have the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. Spending time with different sport or friend groups is important. It is not uncommon for athletes to meet some of their best friends in their sport. These friendships usually form because of time spent together and players on the same team will have similar interests and will be working together to achieve a common goal.
Less Chance of Burn Out: When youth athletes are involved in multiple sports, there is a less chance of them burning out of one or more of the sports. If softball players focus their attention and time on softball too much too soon, the chance of burning out will increase. Participating in multiple sports give athletes a new season and change of environment throughout the year. As players get older, they may lean towards one sport over another, and that’s perfectly fine. It’s encouraged to play as many sports as you can, while you can.
Learn from New Coaches: Coaches and adult figures play a significant role in the development of youth athletes. The more sports you play at a young age, the more coaches you are going to get in front of. Youth athletes are like sponges. They are eager and will absorb everything thrown at them. Not only will coaches teach their players the game, but they will also help lead them through life and will guide them through the challenges and life lessons thrown their way.
Stay Out of Trouble: It can be argued that kids are being forced to grow up too quickly in today’s world. Society is partially to blame for this. If your athlete is involved in multiple sports, this is where their time, energy, and focus will remain. Throw school into the equation too, and your athlete will be plenty busy and less likely to get into trouble. Sports are a controlled environment and a space where athletes feel safe and are protected from the outside world.
There are many benefits to being a multi-sport youth athlete. Even if your athlete begins to pull away and excel in a specific sport, if they enjoy playing the others, let them play for as long as they can. It’s important that parents understand and listen to their athlete’s wants and needs. Just because one club recommends sport specialization, doesn’t mean another won’t be open to allowing the players to compete in multiple. Do your research before making the decision and make sure your athlete is part of the decision making process.
