Editorial: Sports so good for our children

FILE

With junior soccer, rugby, league, netball and hockey drawing to a close, parents around the region are now starting to enjoy a more relaxed Saturday morning without the rush of making it to the sports fields and courts.

While right now you might have "sport fatigue" and could flirt with the idea of giving it a miss next season, never underestimate the benefit it's giving your children.

I popped along to the junior league tournament at Puketawhero Park in Rotorua on Sunday to support my nephew who was playing for Hauraki.

It's been a while since I've been to a junior sport match and I came away so impressed.

I had a scan around the park and these kids were wearing their uniforms with pride, obeying instructions from their coaches and managers and getting into their team spirits.

My nephew happened to score a mighty try while we were there, busting through half a dozen tackles while running more than half the length of the field.

His team mates were bursting with excitement as they went back to their marks to try to repeat the feat.

These little dudes were giving it their everything and it was a joy to see.

It doesn't matter if your child will become an All Black, Kiwi, All White, Silver Fern or Black Fern, sport for youngsters teaches them discipline, fitness and camaraderie.

So enjoy your Saturday mornings at home until winter kicks in next year.