The social positives of sport that aren’t talked about enough
Sports has long gone above their primary purpose of competition and physical activity. They are now becoming a bastion for communities relied upon by many people all across the world, just think of how many people you know just through sports alone. From grassroots to professional level so many social groups are founded on sport.
At the heart of so many Social groups lies sport and this is great for not only peoples physical but also mental health, and sport has a remarkable ability to bring people together, this is as sports can serve as a melting pot for people of different backgrounds to unite and support a common cause.
We spoke to Karate coach and 2nd dan black belt Kai Tungate about how he has felt sports have made an impact for him and how social groups can brew from sport and the positives that brings, he said: “Sports have an impact on someone’s confidence in everyday activities and responsibilities which opens you up to new experiences and connections that can enrich you as a person”. Speaking on the idea of sports clubs as social groups he went on to say: “I have sensed a feeling of community in my sport but that does not always mean it’s a sociable one. A sports community sometimes is as follows, you show up, you train then collaborate and improve”
Moreover, sports serve as invaluable platforms for promoting diversity and inclusion. Sports stars from diverse ethnicities, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds help to inspire millions across the world, breaking stereotypes and challenging societal norms. Through their achievements, they offer incredible narratives of resilience, determination, and courage, this encourages individuals to pursue their dreams regardless of the obstacles they face. Initiatives such as Paralympic Games further highlight the importance of inclusivity, celebrating the extraordinary abilities of athletes with disabilities and reshaping perceptions about what is possible.
We then spoke Daen Fox, a local of Coventry who runs a weekly football social group at the Butts Park Arena, he spoke on how he has found that sports have helped him and others socially, he said: “me and many others here (at the group) get along very well and sometimes after working all week playing footy with people who you can talk to is a massive boost for the week.” He then went on to say: “I would encourage more people to get into sport whether its casual of competitive the are no draw backs.”
Beyond promoting inclusivity, sports play a pivotal role in promoting physical and mental well-being. Regular participation in sports activities not only improves physical fitness but also enhances mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. We have also seen sports around the world connect so many like-minded people who have come together to participate and celebrate in the sports world as a whole.
to conclude this article sport if one of the best means in the world of making friends, reliving stress and becoming more physically active and more people should notice how positive that is.