When children become involved with sports, they learn much more than just how to play a game. They learn skills that will benefit them in all aspects of life. Here, we learn more about three popular sports and why they're great for kids.
Ken Brubaker - Head Coach of 313 Lacrosse
Founded in 2005, 313 Lacrosse has had thousands of players rotate successfully through its doors. "I consider it a privilege to have spent one-third of my life teaching this great game to kids in Grosse Pointe and the surrounding communities," says Ken. "To me, it's more than just a game. It has a spiritual and historical element and has been played for over a thousand years."
Ken enjoys teaching his players not only the skills of the sport but also the history and culture of the game from the Native American perspective. "After all, it's their game, and we're lucky to have borrowed it from them."
Lacrosse can be played by kids and adults of all ages. "It's fun and has a spot for players who may not have the size, speed, and athleticism required for other sports. It helps to be a great athlete, but it's not a requirement."
He says lacrosse teaches the importance of teamwork, effort, focus, and determination. It also builds character and teaches how to be assertive and physical.
Ken loves the positive feedback from the players at 313 Lacrosse. "They have fun, make new friends, and appreciate the solid coaching that has become our trademark. Many have moved on to play in college and have attested that we were a part of their success."
313Lax.com
John Fodell - Head Coach of Grosse Pointe Gators Swimming Club
Grosse Pointe Gators is a year-round USA swim team that offers everything from beginner-level competitions with 4 and 5-year-olds all the way up to college swimmers. "We travel all over the country together, which is a great experience," says John.
The Gators have been a community-based organization in Grosse Pointe for 20 years. The program promotes true camaraderie, where team members encourage each other to reach higher and higher levels. "It's a great team sport because there are no cuts, and one person isn't going to get more playtime than anyone else."
Kids figure out that the harder they work, the better they get, and how to persevere through discomfort, he explains. "They also learn to bounce back from disappointment and keep going. Being on a swim team also teaches time management skills; GPAs for swimmers are usually off the charts."
As far as health benefits, he believes swimming provides a higher level of physical fitness and conditioning than any other sport. Kids also eat healthily so their bodies can function at the peak levels needed. "It's one of the only sports you can do for life."
GPGatorsSwim.org
Don Jaeger - Head Coach of the Bulldogs Hockey Club
When Don was 3, his father built an ice rink in the family's backyard. Once he started skating, he just fell in love with it. Today, he shares his passion for skating and hockey with others.
The Bulldogs Hockey Club is part of the Eastside Youth Sports Foundation. "We start kids as early as 3 years old," says Don. "The friendships and the character that kids build through hockey is second to none."
It's also a great sport for a healthy lifestyle. "It provides kids a way to stay in shape and exercise, especially during winter."
Hockey also teaches the value of hard work. "What you put into the game is what you get out of it, and the harder you work, the more you get rewarded. Players also have to deal with players on their own team, their opponents, coaches, and officials, so they learn much about team dynamics and resiliency. They can then incorporate those skills into everyday life."
Some kids who have gone through the entire program come back to volunteer and teach others how to play. "When we see that hockey-for-life mindset, we know we've been successful."
BullDogsHockeyClub.org
The Right Care
While all the coaches take safety seriously, there are times when a doctor visit is warranted. Dr Manish Kesliker is the medical director and co-owner, along with his wife, Dr. Supak Sookkasikon, of Emcura Immediate Care and Primary Care in Grosse Pointe and Bloomfield. He has placed IVs for dehydrated football players, treated concussions, and managed ankle sprains and other injuries.
"As a family-owned clinic, our priority is always your family," says Dr. Kesliker. "In addition to post-injury counseling, concussion management, and future injury prevention, we always emphasize good nutrition during our sports physicals."
Emcura.com
"It provides kids a way to stay in shape and exercise, especially during winter."
"It's a great team sport because there are no cuts, and one person isn't going to get more playtime than anyone else."