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The participation in sports and athletics at a young age is one of the best things that a child can do. The multitude of benefits which can be taken away from youth athletics stretch far beyond the playing field or court; they can be applied to life.
According to estimates done by the NCAA in September 2011, the average chance of a high school athlete playing NCAA sports at any level is 5.98 percent, the average chance of an NCAA athlete playing professional sports at any level is 2.95%, and the average chance of a high school athlete playing professional sports at any level is 0.14%.
Given these numbers, it is safe to say that most children will not go on to participate in recognized athletics beyond high school. The lessons learned, however, will echo for the rest of their life.
According to the article "The Benefits of Youth Sports," published on Livestrong.com by Eileen Breeze, the benefits include self discipline, self confidence, the formation of strong relationships, and a healthy body.
As the Director of the Parisi Speed School at Club Fit in Jefferson Valley, and as a lifelong athlete, I can say first hand that these benefits are real and that the real benefits of sports are for life.
Click here to read more on the benefits of youth sports.
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