I have been involved in sport all my life. I have been a participant, a coach, a selector and, an official. I have assisted sporting organisations with organisational development, and coached elite athletes to transition into new areas of life, and coached administrators be better leaders.
I think sport, like the arts, plays a crucial role in nourishing the soul of the individual and the culture. It brings people together in a common purpose. It not only develops physical skills, but it also develops skills in communication and leadership. It builds resilience and persistence. These are vital in creating success in life across a range of contexts.
For those people who bemoan the governmental support of sport – consider this. It contributes to giving many a purpose. It contributes to making people happy. It has the capacity to more deeply connect us. It brings joy to the collective. It feeds the economy providing jobs for millions and in a multi-billion dollar industry. If you participate, it can increase physical and mental well being. It contributes to decreasing depression and a host of diseases related to it. It’s fun. It’s of value. It’s a good thing. It’s part of my life and has generated life long friendships and brilliant clients for my business.
Sport is of enormous benefit and worth the time, energy and money. I for one appreciate it and am thankful that I have had the opportunity to be involved in it.