Larger youth participation in sports vital for health and nation building: Coaches
Sports coaches and senior trainers have strongly emphasised that wider youth participation in games and sports is essential not only for physical fitness, but also for mental and emotional well-being, as well as national integrity. Talking to The Tribune, they said sports should be viewed as a powerful tool for character building and overall development of young people.
Jagmohan Vij, a coach of international repute and certified Referee-A of the World Karate Federation, said sports should not be seen merely as a way to win medals or secure college admissions or jobs. "Winning medals and career benefits is surely an advantage, but sports are much more than that. The real value of sports lies in character building and holistic development," he said.
Quoting senior karate master Gichin Funakoshi, Vij added, "The ultimate aim of Karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants." He explained that a good coach plays a crucial role in shaping trainees' character, improving their determination, and nurturing their talent. According to him, trainers do not judge players only by wins or losses in a few matches, but see sports as a medium for all-round development and inspire players to move forward in life.
He further said sports naturally bring positive behavioural changes. Through regular training and competition, self-confidence increases, determination strengthens, and players learn how to handle failure. "Sports teach young people not to fear physical hardship or defeat. Instead, they learn to overcome challenges, revive their inner strength, and continue with renewed energy," he added. According to Vij, sports also teach teamwork, discipline, resilience, and the ability to handle pressure calmly. Therefore, athletes should be evaluated not only on medals, but on their overall growth as individuals.
Senior volleyball coach Ravi Chand Sharma also stressed the need to connect youth with sports. "It is the need of the hour and all-out efforts must be made. Motivation alone is not enough. Practical steps are needed at school, family, and community levels," he said. Sharma suggested that physical education teachers should be given at least two hours in the morning and evening exclusively for sports practice.
He said sports training should be a regular part of the school timetable, not treated as an extra activity. Students should be encouraged from early classes, parents should be guided about the benefits of sports, and information about incentives and facilities for sportspersons should be widely spread.
Kickboxing coach Jogi also endorsed these views, saying youth should be motivated more towards sports to help them become responsible citizens. "Sports teach responsibility, teamwork, tolerance, and discipline. Young players learn to contribute positively to society and the nation," he said. According to him, sports help youth lead a meaningful and balanced life.
All coaches agreed that a strong sports culture is essential for a healthy, disciplined, and united nation. They urged authorities, schools, and families to work together to make sports an integral part of every child's life.
