15 Raring2go! WELLBEING for children? 3. Postitive Character Traits Participation in sport provides children with the perfect space to learn positive values, teamwork, fair play and more. Sport continues to contribute to the development of these character traits in children as they grow up. 4. Enhanced Decision Making When children between the ages of 5-11 are exposed to many different sporting activities, the result can be a better overall skillset and ability to perform at a high level. This, in combination with a smarter, more aware decision-making brain. 5. Developing Resilience Even the most talented athletes will experience set-backs and disappointment. Whether it is missing out on being selected for a team, injury or losing an important match, at the time the emotions can be overwhelming. Learning to deal with these feelings and moving forward, however hard at the time, builds a resilience and positivity. Skills that will stay with young players as they grow into adulthood. Spotlight on Girls’ Football With the Lionesses heading to Switzerland this Summer to defend the Women’s Euro’s title that they won in 2022, we spoke to young up and coming footballer, Keira Johnson about her journey so far. Where do you currently play football? I play for the Chelsea FC Academy U16 team. I have been really lucky this season to get the chance to play with the England U16 squad. Why did you choose football as your sport? How did you get started? I started playing football at Balsall and Berkswell Hornets in Solihull and I loved it. I joined a team with U8 boys when I was in Year 2. They trained in the week and played matches at the weekend - It was lots of fun. What has been the highlight of your career so far? Scoring the winning penalty in a semi final against Real Madrid in Spain to take Chelsea u21’s into the final against Barcelona. And playing for England at U16, of course. Who is your sporting hero? I have lots! I really like Keira Walsh as she plays my position. I think all footballers have to put Messi right up there! What advice would you give your younger self as you started your sporting journey? Make sure you enjoy every minute. It’s fun! What can kids learn from being involved in a sport like yours? Lots of things. Playing football teaches you what it means to be part of a team. Working together and sharing the successes and disappointments that come with sport can lead to amazing friendships. Also, hard work and commitment will really pay off – that is true in sport as well as other areas of your life. Is attitude or talent more important to success? I think attitude is most important. You can be really talented but if you’re not willing to put in the training hours you won’t ever get the results you want to make that next step! Chris Mayer Head of Boys’ Hockey at Solihull School. International hockey player for 10 years representing Team GB at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. ‘Sports like hockey teach teamwork, respect, leadership, accountability and many more important life skills’
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDA0NjA=