TCI: The Department of Sports rolls out “After School Sport Programmes” at sport facilities around the country!

#Providenciales, October 19, 2018 – Turks and Caicos – The Department of Sports is pleased to announce that as of October 15^th we will be hosting After School Sports Programmes on the various Islands at our Sport facilities on Mondays – Thursdays 3:30pm – 5:00pm.

This generation of children spend more time indoors than any previous generation, hence there is a growing concern in the TCI regarding childhood obesity.  This crisis has prompted the Department of Sports to provide additional time for children to engage in physical  activities.  Many parents are reluctant to allow their children to participate in after-school sports and other physical activities because of concerns about injuries and the challenge of balancing school, chores and sports.

While these are natural parental concerns when a child initially enters the sports world, experts agree that the benefits of sports far exceed any potential risks.

Sports Improves Fitness and Overall Health

Participation in sports reduces the risk for obesity and other serious issues like juvenile delinquency.

Studies demonstrate that sports improve a child’s academic performance, self-esteem and social competence. Sports participation bolsters children’s ability to solve problems and maintain normal weight. It also enhances physical coordination and strengthens muscles and bones.

Sports Teaches Children How to Manage Pressure

Becoming an athlete requires a child to perform tough tasks under difficult circumstances. Playing sports help children learn how to stay focused while dealing with pressure. There is also evidence that  children enrolled in sports programs are at  a lower risk for dropping out of school, teen pregnancies and juvenile arrests.

Exercise Relieves Stress and Boost Self – Confidence

According to the American Psychological Association, the benefits of exercise transcend physical fitness. Exercise releases natural substances such as  dopamine and serotonin that improve your child’s sense of well-being. Playing sports with friends is a fun way to alleviate stress associated with academic pressures.

Accomplishing important objectives in sports builds a child’s self-esteem. The competitive nature of sports places children in challenging situations that require ingenuity and perseverance.

Benefits of Healthy Competition, Sportsmanship and Teamwork

Sports education teaches children how to deal with issues like competition that they will encounter throughout their academic, personal and professional lives. Children learn how to compete and succeed by giving their best effort during friendly competition.

Playing sports teaches children how to share the responsibility and credit for the group’s performance. It also helps children learn how to be courteous whether they win or lose. Children experience positive emotions when teammates celebrate important milestones and victories.

Message from Minister for Health, Agriculture, Sport and Human Services, Hon. Edwin Astwood

“When it comes to healthy lifestyles for children and young people, I am a strong believer in the saying that, ” a little play goes a long way.” Therefore, I want to encourage parents throughout the TCI to get their young children involved in sporting activities and encourage the older children to do the same. Taking part in sports helps everyone to improve skills and maintain physical ability. Sporting activities are important for everyone as it keeps the body healthy and fit but it is especially important for kids and youths as it also improves their social well-being. There is a sport for just about all body types and fitness levels and different sports involve the use of different physical abilities. Some sports are geared towards speed, power and endurance while others are more about hand/eye coordination and concentration. Hence, there is a sport for everyone to participate and excel in. With this said, let us get all our children involved in sports, and let them reap the potential benefits of increased physical ability, increased mental power, and increased self-esteem.”

Sports Programme Locations

Providenciales   –          Gustarvus Lightbourne and Down Town Ball Park

South Caicos      –          Sports Facility

Grand Turk        –          NJS Francis Park

*Space is limited, so enrollment will be on a “first-come-first-serve” basis.  Students can enroll at the local Sport Offices.  Information will be available at each Sport Office as to which sports will be covered on each island and the age range of enrollment.  We are also encouraging volunteers to sign up with the Department of Sports to assist in facilitating the various sporting disciplines.

For further information, contact the Department of Sports at 649–338–7704 or visit Sport Offices on the respective Islands to speak with a Sports Officer.

Thank you!

TCIG Department of Sports

“Empowering our people through sports”