Rugby. It’s more than just a game.
Did you know that rugby can provide many benefits for youngsters, both physically and mentally? Rugby not only provides a good form of physical exercise but also introduces children to principles such as teamwork, persistence, respect, and discipline, as well as building confidence and encouraging camaraderie and friendship in a fun environment. All these skills and attributes can be transferred to everyday life, as well as other sports, and help develop children’s mental and emotional wellbeing.
We understand that getting children involved in rugby can be a worry for some parents, but safety is a top priority in the game. Sticking to proper protocols and focusing on safety during sessions makes this a superb sport for toddlers right up to teenagers and beyond.
6 Benefits of Rugby for Children
1. Physical Fitness
Rugby is an excellent way to get children active and to promote movement and exercise. As well as the physical benefits, rugby is a great sport for developing:
2. Teamwork
Rugby is a team sport that requires players to work together towards a common goal and think about how decisions that are made will benefit not just themselves but also their peers.
Being part of a team teaches important skills such as communication, collaboration, and leadership. Children also learn how to support and encourage their teammates, which can be valuable in all areas of life.
3. Discipline and Self-control
Children who take part in rugby sessions learn how to follow rules, take direction from coaches and listen to instructions. They learn there are boundaries and the importance of following rules in sport as well as life.
Rugby is associated with a strong moral code, with respect shown to referees and other match officials and a high standard of sportsmanship shown to their opponents. Playing the game and learning these important values encourages children to develop their sense of ethics and fair play.
4. Resilience
Rugby can help children develop resilience and the ability to bounce back from challenges and disappointments. Children need to lose in sports because it prepares them for life. It shows that you don’t always get what you want and that you bounce back from disappointment.
Feedback from coaches and referees helps children learn how to take constructive criticism and how criticism can help them improve. When the children make the recommended changes, they are rewarded by seeing the long-term benefits for both themselves and their team. A valuable skill in everyday life too.
5. Confidence
Learning new skills and techniques develops children’s confidence in themselves and their abilities and helps them become more self-assured. Rugby builds confidence through compliments from coaches and peers, highlighting areas they’re doing well, encouragement, and rewarding improvement.
When children are more self-assured they feel more comfortable making decisions and taking risks. A valuable attribute for children who struggle with self-esteem or shyness is the ability to become more confident in their day-to-day lives. Many children land their first leadership role on the field as the Team Captain, subtly boosting their self-esteem and confidence.
6. Social Skills
Children who take part in rugby grow and flourish in social situations, as rugby requires players to work together and communicate effectively, which helps build friendships and social connections.
Rugby is a sport that welcomes players of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds, creating a sense of belonging and community and the opportunity to meet new people. Social connection can help improve the wellbeing of both the children participating and the parents and carers standing on the sidelines spectating.
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