Bringing out the best in kids through sports
Getting children into sports is vital to their overall development. It does not only help them hone their athletic skills and build physical strength. More importantly, it also instills in them the value of self-discipline, camaraderie, teamwork, perseverance and, above all, sportsmanship that leads them to become the best they can be.
But aside from getting into sports, support from their parents, coaches as well as from school officials is equally important. With proper moral, emotional, and financial support as well as guidance, kids become better athletes and individuals especially in dealing with both victory and defeat.
This was tackled at the recently concluded SBP-Passerelle, the longest-running twin tournament in the country. Organized by the multi-awarded and pioneer of basketball clinics in the country, BEST (Basketball Efficiency and Scientific Training) Center, the twin tournament gives importance to the vital role of parents, coaches, and school officials in shaping the kids to become better individuals.
“At BEST Center, we encourage parents to be role models to their kids by imposing good behavior and promoting fair play and sportsmanship,” shares BEST Center founder and former national coach Nicanor Jorge. “These values will serve as good foundation for the kids to learn from.”
“Full support is vital especially if you want your kids to excel in their sport,” remarks proud father Alexander Arabia who actively attends his son Alejandro’s basketball clinic every weekend. “Through simple acts such as driving them to practice, silently cheering them on at the sidelines and fetching them afterwards, parents can already get to know more about their kids and vice versa.”
For Yuan Pasumbal of International School of Better Beginnings (ISBB), his parents are not the only ones who fully support his passion. All of his three siblings are also present in every competition. “We never miss any game, wherever, whenever they may be,” say his parents Fredrick and Reinates Pasumbal.
Coaches also play an important role in child devel- opment. They are the kids’ role models and are responsible for their performance on the court as well as how they behave off-court.
“Coaches serve as examples for the kids to follow,” quips coach Ronie Gallo of Ferndale International School of Zamboanga City, whose son Ronie Dale is also one of the players of the team. “As both parent and coach, I never play favourites, emphasize the importance of fair play, and teach them to accept the results of the game, win or lose.”
“Sports complement education,” remarks Bro. Felipe Belleza of De La Salle. “While studying sharpens their academic skills, playing sports helps build character. They do not only develop talent but also learn life skills which they can use throughout their lives, regardless of whatever profession or path they choose to take.”
For more information about BEST Center’s classes and tournaments, call the hotlines 4116260, 372-3066 and 372-3065; email bestcentersports@gmail.com or follow its official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/ BEST-Center-Sports-Inc/66172039922.