Playing any sport carries a certain amount of risk, and some parents are understandably wary of encouraging their child to play contact sports such as rugby for fear of injury and concussion. However, the benefits of playing a team sport and doing regular exercise far outweigh these risks. Coaches and those involved in sport are better trained than ever before at spotting signs of serious injury and can teach their players to know how best to protect themselves.

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Benefits

One of the key benefits of children playing a team sport is that they learn to work together with others. Cooperation and teamwork are valuable life skills that can help in other areas of a child’s life, such as school.

Organization

A child who is a member of a team will need to learn how to be organized, be on time, have the necessary kit and equipment, and understand the importance of being prepared.

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Respect

Team sports involve listening skills, respecting the coaches and referees, and following rules. Understanding the need for discipline can help a child develop positive relationships with their coaches and their peers.

Resilience

Learning how to deal with disappointment and showing resilience when losing or not getting picked for the starting squad can encourage children to develop resilience, which can help with friendship issues and prepare them for exams and work life.

Health

Being fit and understanding the effects on your body of eating a healthy diet and getting enough sleep will encourage children to take care of themselves.

Whatever level of sport your child enjoys, being fit and healthy will help them grow into fit and healthy adults. Coaches can use rugby drills such as https://www.sportplan.net/drills/rugby to help players get the most out of their training sessions.

The Rugby World Cup kicks off later this month in Asia. There are 12 different venues, with the final being held in Yokohama.

Safety

Contact sports involve participants coming together. Making sure your child has the correct protective clothing and equipment and understands the rules for fair play will help them play safely and get the most out of the sport.

If your child does suffer an injury, be aware of when to seek medical help and look out for signs such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness.