We all know that sport is an excellent way for young kids to develop and grow their physical, cognitive, social, and emotional skills.
Youth sport has grown so much and has become highly competitive, with every parent, player, coach, and team trying to gain that vital edge.
I have listened to a few podcasts from sports coaches and ex-professional athletes. They have found that kids have lost their imagination and enjoyment of the game, and their training sessions are not geared toward developing the Fundamentals skills needed for the chosen sport.
Click on the link and quickly listen to Wallaby Head Coach Eddie Jones.
This may lead one to ask, is youth sport too Structured? What is Structured Sport? What is Unstructured Sport?
Structured Sports is coach-led and goal-orientated. Each training session has a plan, aim, and purpose, with players introduced to new skills, games, and ideas.
During the theses training session, the coaches direct players and provide constant feedback and reassurance. Structured sports will introduce players to various skills and teach them the fundamental skills and movements needed for their chosen sport.
Unstructured Sports are player led and driven. Players will take the initiative and be able to express themselves and explore and experiment with new ideas. These sessions might not have a goal or purpose but an opportunity fo players to have fun.
Unstructured sport breeds creativity and decision-making, allowing players to take ownership, develop independence, and problem-solve. Games may be played with modified rules, i.e., one hand- one bounce in cricket!
Is one better than the other?
Both Structured and Unstructured are beneficial in the youth athletes' development. They will learn and develop various skills for optimal growth and maximize their development.
Young athletes must learn Fundamental skills and express themselves in a non - structured environment, allowing them to enjoy the game and bond with their peers. The older they get, they will continue to learn and build new skills in a structured and goal-oriented environment.
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