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By Andy Dean
Athletics Director
In Primary this year, the number of sports fixtures has increased. We have already played 5 football matches to date with the YAPP Tournament this weekend and more to come. Coming up we have the NISC Cup, NAE Games in February and hopefully FOBISIA Games in May. That doesn’t even include the local Tee Ball, Basketball and Athletics as well as Swimming opportunities including in Bangkok, that are open to our young NAGAs.
It is an amazing opportunity to take advantage of this activities and develop a lifelong love of learning, new friendships and skills, as well as living a healthy active lifestyle.
Without being too deep, Nelson Mandela once said, “Sport has the power to change the world; it has the power to inspire.” Obviously, as a PE teacher, I think he’s right. Winning and losing are part of sports, but playing sport does so much more than just build athletic skills; it fosters essential life skills and enhances the overall school experience. Here’s a closer look at the numerous benefits of sports at our school and why we (and you should) encourage your child to participate.
1. Physical Health and Fitness
First and foremost, regular participation in sports promotes physical health. With our busy lifestyles, it can be easy for children to spend more time indoors, often leading to sedentary habits. At Northbridge, sports like swimming and football not only improve cardiovascular health but also enhance strength, flexibility, and endurance. Engaging in these activities helps combat obesity and instills lifelong fitness habits.
2. Teamwork and Social Skills
Participating in team sports like tee ball and football teaches students the importance of teamwork. They learn how to communicate effectively, share responsibilities, and support one another in both victories and defeats. These experiences build strong social skills that extend beyond the court or field, helping students navigate relationships and collaborate in other areas of their lives.
3. Discipline, Organisation, Independence and Time Management
Balancing academics and sports requires discipline, organisation and time management. Students learn to prioritize their commitments, manage their schedules, and set personal goals. This discipline can translate into their academic work, fostering a strong work ethic that will serve them well in their future endeavors.
4. Boosting Self-Esteem and Confidence
Sports provide a unique platform for students to build self-esteem and confidence. As they improve their skills and achieve personal or team milestones, they gain a sense of accomplishment that can positively impact all areas of their lives. Whether it's mastering a new swimming stroke or scoring a winning goal in football, these moments of success help students recognize their potential.
5. Emotional Resilience
Participating in sports also teaches emotional resilience. Students learn how to cope with setbacks, manage stress, and handle competition gracefully. These experiences are invaluable, helping them to develop a positive mindset and the ability to bounce back from challenges—skills that are crucial in both sports and life.
6. Cultural Exchange and Inclusivity
At Northbridge International School, our diverse student body enriches the sports experience. Playing alongside teams from various cultural backgrounds fosters inclusivity and mutual respect. Students not only learn to appreciate different perspectives but also form friendships that transcend cultural boundaries.
7. Lifelong Connections and Community
Finally, sports can create lasting bonds and a sense of community. Whether it's cheering for a basketball team or celebrating a successful swim meet, these shared experiences bring families together and create cherished memories. The support and camaraderie found in sports contribute to a vibrant school culture.
Sports play a vital role in the holistic development of our students. Encouraging your child to participate in activities like swimming, basketball, football, and tee ball can significantly enhance their physical, social, and emotional well-being. As a community, let’s continue to support our young athletes, helping them thrive both in and out of the classroom and encourage your child to get involved in our sports programs and watch them grow into confident, resilient individuals ready to take on the world!
I really enjoy the challenge of making NISC the school of choice for School sport in Phnom Penh, increasing the opportunities that we have at Primary School and expanding the Senior School too. I hope this term has shown some small steps in the right direction towards our goal and vision but also to ensure that we are recognised and respected around the region for our sport too.
Last week, our second annual NISC Cup kicked off, with four schools and over one hundred students facing off to see who would be taking home the silverware on offer in separate boys’ and girls’ competitions. Last year CIA girls’ team won a thrilling final and were hoping that the cup would be returning to their school for a second year in a row, while our own NISC boys’ team were hoping to retain their hard won 2023 title.
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