I have always derived pleasure and joy from various sports. In addition, I also developed new skills, learned life lessons, and gained new insights. However, as a mother, my role has changed from participant to spectator. The emotional highs and lows are still equally intense.

Find the right sport and position for you

We encouraged our children to take part in at least one sport. Jacques found his passion in cricket early in life. Christo was not so interested in sports but was passionate about technology. On the rugby field, he was the one who did cartwheels. For the sake of the coach’s heart, I recommended hockey. He found his motivation in spirit, fun and teamwork.

Sometimes the playing field changes

Switzerland’s sports choices are different from those of South Africa. As a beginner, Zander did not have the same skill level in football as his peers, who had been playing since childhood. His ball skills were good enough as a goalkeeper, but the situation was not good for his self-esteem.

Fortunately, volleyball has emerged as an option. The sport fits Zander like a glove. Most of his conversations are about it, and he practices outside regularly. Zander joined a volleyball club in Zurich and is willing to try the Swiss-German because of the sport.

In life, as in sports, we do not always immediately find the place where we can be the best version of ourselves. If we keep searching and trying, we will find that place where we excel and be open to new challenges.

Teamwork

In team sports, the various positions require different skills. However, team members know each other’s strengths and weaknesses and utilize and supplement where necessary. The team is just as strong as its weakest player, and therefore everyone should help, support, and encourage each other.

Each member is responsible to the rest of the team to be fit, practice skills, and give their best. In society, each of us forms part of a team. We find teamwork at home, at school, at work, at church, and in the communities where we live.

Every sport has its injuries

At school, cricket was Jacques’ life. In grade 9, he fell backwards with a catch and broke his left and right wrists. After the doctor put both arms in plaster, Jacques insisted on returning to the match to complete the game as a fielder. Afterwards, an orthopaedic operated on both wrists to ensure proper recovery.

Years ago, I formed part of the provincial netball team and participated in the South African nationals tournament. Against all expectations, our team progressed to the final. It was a challenging game. In injury time, I made a mistake as a defender in my overzealousness, and we consequently lost the match by one penalty goal. It was hard to forgive myself.

We pick up physical and emotional injuries and make mistakes. It puts us back, and the recovery process takes time. We need to give ourselves time for recovery, but we need to get up and continue playing with passion and enthusiasm again.

Playing time on the field is limited.

Participating and performing in a competitive environment requires significant time and hard work. However, it is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience, skills, and expertise to share again with developing players. Before you know it, your position on the field shifts to one next to the playing field. From this position, you give advice, support, and encouragement.

The players learn best by playing themselves, finding out what works for them and making mistakes.

We must maintain balance to avoid losing our joy in sports and the game of life. 

Regards

Emsia