Years ago, children played multiple sports each year.
Fall was for football. Winter was for basketball or hockey.
Now, it's pick your one sport and stick with it--for the rest of your life.
Does raising the "one sport athlete" really enhance the development of a young athlete?
We say "no." Here's why.
1. One Sport Athletes Burn Out
The "quit" rate is exceedingly high for young, one sport athletes. For example, take AAA hockey players in any state. These are the most talented hockey players in their area. You will find that many (if not most) of the "AAA" players from 6-7 years ago have quit the game.
2. Multiple Sport Athletes Gain Important Mental Skills
Successful athletes have outstanding concentration, composure and can generate emotional energy when needed. They can "dial it in." Playing a variety of sports helps athletes to adjust, recover and have the best possible performance.
Consider the focus, energy, breathing and composure of a youth football player vs. a youth golfer. Who charges onto the field like an angry tiger? Who walks onto the tee box like a thoughtful professor? In sports, there is a need for both moods.
3. Multiple Sport Athletes Practice with Energy
Playing other sports will mental refresh youth athletes without compromising the time they dedicate to physical skill development. They will get the most out of each practice.
4. Mutiple Sport Athletes have Balanced the Muscle Groups
Consider the problems of "over-training" certain muscle groups, risking injury and therefore compromising overall athleticism.
Consider the best NFL athletes. They best lineman can catch, throw and dance.
Football players play basketball and gain agility.
Hockey players play lacrosse and gain hand strength.
RECOMMENDATION: Have your child play a variety of sports. In the long run, this balance will keep the athlete mentally fresh, physically balanced and fit and excited for the next challenge. Ultimately, this leads to better long term results.
Tom Finks
http://www.prosportsexperience.com/
Pro Sports Experience is the official management company of Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, New York Giants and Philadelphia Eagles Youth Football Camps.
