Volume 26, Issue 4 | September 22, 2026

Why Do Kids Play Sports?

Kids play sports because they're fun. Decades of study have always returned to this simple truth, finding that kids place fun at the top of their list of reasons to participate. While a terrific foundation for coaches to build upon, the somewhat ambiguous nature of this reality begs at least two additional questions:

What exactly is it that kids find fun?

How do I make sports fun teaching skills and balancing competitive goals?

In the video above, Play Like a Champion's Peter Piscitello dives into the research to answer these important questions. Whether you're a youth or high school coach, it's information that's both vital to reaching young athletes and exceedingly practical. For example, coaches might be surprised to learn that working hard is high on the list. They might be less surprised to see things like playing with teammates or competing listed, but when combined these three elements can create a high-energy practice that helps athletes to grow in skill while enjoying the experience. Given that we also know enjoyment increases motivation and drives development, we can see how learning about what makes sports fun can help us tailor an approach that maximizes the benefits for young athletes and teams.

Coaches, watch the video above and commit to at least one way you will make your next practice more fun. You may be surprised by how this simple step can take your team to the next level.

"A glad heart makes a cheerful countenance, but by sorrow of heart the spirit is broken." ~ Proverbs 15:13

Coaching HER

Coaching HER® is a transformative coaching resource designed to help sport coaches challenge conventional norms and rethink what it means to coach girls. It's a FREE, high-impact way to strengthen your coaching culture and show your commitment to girls’ development, confidence, and belonging in sport. Scan the QR code on the right or click the link below to learn about becoming a Coaching Her® Champion, which includes online modules, playbooks, ongoing education and access to a community of coaches committed to keeping girls in the game. Grounded in research and evidence-based practices, this is a terrific way for coaches to improve their understanding of what it takes to coach girls and provide them with an incredible youth sports experience.

A Prayer for Teams

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of this team and each of our teammates. Help us to understand that we are all made in the image of God and that you have given us special gifts to contribute to this team. We pray that we may use the gifts you have given us during this practice to benefit our team. Also help us to sacrifice ourselves for the good of the whole team. May we be good listeners so that we can learn and grow in this time together. We ask this through Christ, Our Lord. Amen.