Watching the NRL each week has become routine for so many, but there are other sports that also deliver that “get away from it all” factor.
Because, let’s face it, too often when we turn to the news we are faced with a trend that was previously unimaginable.
I’m talking about youth crime, which many describe as an epidemic that is sweeping Queensland.
And our state is not alone in experiencing this surge in unruly behaviour.
But why is this happening and how can it be stopped? These big questions need quick answers.
Can I offer a suggestion that I believe can also provide part of the solution.
The sports we see on television are great entertainment and so they should be, as the professionals playing them enjoy being part of well-paid sporting professions.
But just down the road are the local community sporting clubs, many struggling to survive and coached by community volunteers. These local community coaches have, in the palms of their hands, the hearts and minds of our young.
They not only coach the skills of their sport, often they are providing life skills that, for whatever reason, some kids are not receiving at home.
Volunteer community clubs and coaches offer a solution that academics who advise governments would never dream of.
Sport offers so many valuable life lessons for young people.
Within community sport lies a solution to getting kids engaged in something valuable and worthwhile that is just waiting for just one thing – appropriate funding to come from governments and the hierarchy of our professional sporting organsiations.
Watch youth crime start to reduce when these clubs and coaches receive the recognition, opportunities and funding they so richly deserve.
