helpforclubs

Juniors

How do clubs engage with young people?

What help is available to develop juniors?

Case studies - Juniors

Making Women and Girls More Active in Sport

How do clubs engage with young people?

It is important to ensure that children are given fun and positive sporting experiences. If they are encouraged to enjoy the experience and they participate successfully in your sport then they are more likely to remain involved in that sport for life.

In order to attract young people to your club you will need to establish a quality junior section that they wish to join. A quality junior section should provide and encourage:

• The opportunity to socialise 
• The opportunity to work as part of a team 
• Co-operation and an ability to handle success and failure 
• Development of health and fitness 
• Positive & fun sporting experiences 
• Self confidence and positive self image 
• Positive attitudes towards exercise and healthy living 
• An opportunity for young people and parents to work together 
• Keeping young people 'off the streets'.

Young people take part in sport for many reasons:

• For enjoyment and fun 
• To be with friends 
• To be part of a team 
• To play the game and improve their skills 
• For the excitement of competition

but several factors also deter them:

• The school environment - national curriculum pressures, no after school clubs 
• The home environment - working parents, single parents, unemployment, transport 
• Passive leisure pursuits - technology, computers, internet, socialising/ hanging out