Is it a benefit for young to have sports organized by adults?

We know that almost all young people under 18 (90.6%) practice sports in sports facilities, therefore in situations organized for them by sports clubs and ultimately by adults. Consequently, the time in which young people organize themselves autonomously is very limited, if not absent.

The practice of sports organized and managed by adults can offer numerous advantages to young people, such as learning rules, teamwork, physical development, and guidance from experienced coaches. However, it is equally important that young people have the opportunity to participate in autonomous and self-managed sports experiences.

Here are some points to consider as food for thought for the sports world, which then requires on-field sense of responsibility, decision-making skills, and autonomy:

1. Development of leadership and autonomy - Allowing young people to organize and manage sports activities on their own can promote the development of their decision-making, leadership, and problem-solving skills. This type of experience helps them become more independent and take initiative.
2. Creativity and entrepreneurial spirit - Self-management of sports can promote creativity and innovation among young people, encouraging them to develop new ways to practice a sport or organize sports events.
3. Flexibility and adaptability - Working autonomously in sports teaches young people to be flexible and adaptable to changing situations, improving their problem-solving and adaptability skills.
4. Balance between structure and freedom -BIt is important to find a balance between adult organization and young people’s self-management in sports. Both experiences have their advantages, and the ideal could be a mix of the structure offered by adults and the autonomy granted to young people.
5. Inclusion and diversity - Self-management could promote greater inclusion and diversity in sports activities, allowing a variety of people to participate based on their needs and interests.
6. Fosters responsibility - Self-management in sports teaches young people to be responsible for their actions and decisions. They learn to manage their time, take responsibility, and fulfill commitments within the sports context.
7. Boosts self-confidence - When young people autonomously manage sports activities, they can experience success through their own efforts and work. This contributes to boosting self-confidence and a positive perception of their abilities.
8. Promotes collaborative spirit - Collaborating among peers in managing sports activities fosters the development of closer social relationships. It creates an environment where young people learn to work together, negotiate, resolve conflicts, and make group decisions.
9. Encourages creativity and innovation - Self-management offers the freedom to experiment with new ideas and methods in the sports field. This freedom stimulates creativity and innovation, encouraging young people to think originally and adopt unconventional solutions.
10. Provides a sense of belonging and identity - When young people are actively involved in managing sports activities, they develop a sense of belonging and identity with the group. This sense of belonging can increase motivation and enthusiasm in practicing sports.

In conclusion, while sports organized and managed by adults offer a solid structure and professional guidance, allowing young people to take initiative and autonomously manage some sports activities can significantly contribute to the development of their individual, social, and decision-making skills. Finding a balance between these two approaches can be extremely advantageous for their overall development.