We are excited to be using the new SmashPlay resource for our evening fundamental skills program for the 2022-23 season.
With our youngest players. the sport isn't as important as the fundamental skills involved. Locomotor, Stability and Manipulation skills are best developed in the first 8 years and really help them succeed at future sport.
The SmashPlay program really targets these Fundamental physical skills, as well as introducing Values into sport, such as co-operation, honesty and supporting one another.
WHO: Typically, children would join from 3-4 years old depending on their confidence and ability and can stay in this program until they are confident to join a team. They are welcome to join a Saturday team whenever they are confident enough.
WHEN:
Friday Nights:
Term 4 October 13th - December 15th (10 Weeks)
Term 1 January 26th - March 29th (10 Weeks)
4.00pm-5.15pm with a food break at 4.30
WHERE: Beckenham Park
HOW MUCH: Friday Smashies has no uniform requirement, and will be $40/term. This is slightly more expensive than Saturday teams due to the supervision and coaching ratio
The definition of physical literacy puts it perfectly, these children are the future, and we need them to grow up into healthy, motivated, competent adults.
“Physical literacy is the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge, and understanding to value and take responsibility for engagement in physical activities for life."
It is also well documented by Sport NZ and other organisations that getting the right amount of physical activity in your life prevents the development of some illnesses, diseases and other conditions, as well as mental health benefits, therefore having an opportunity at Southern Districts to remain active, learn new skills & participate in your community reduces down stream medical and social costs.
Fundamental movement skills are very important to a child’s physical literacy development. When confident and competent in these skills, such as throwing, kicking, running, jumping, hopping and catching, children will find it easier to apply these skills to a sport situation: for example, kicking a soccer ball, running a sprint, jumping up for a basketball rebound, or catching a cricket ball.
A child that is given the opportunity to learn a wide range of fundamental movement skills acquires the competence, confidence and motivation to try new sports and activities.
Cricket is a great sport to improve physical health, with lots of running, diving, catching, hand eye co-ordination, balance and stamina.
Cricket can also bring other benefits and opportunities such as: Team skills, Social skills such as cooperation, communication and learning how to cope with winning and losing.
Social interaction – it’s a great way to meet new people and make new friends. For those not so physically able, there is also umpiring, scoring and coaching to get involved in the great summer game.