What Sports Are played in the summer
Blake Poteat | Upward Sports
As the school year ends and summer vacation begins, kids have much more free time to spend outdoors playing sports. The warm summer weather makes it ideal for all kinds of outdoor sports and activities. Here are some of the most popular youth sports played during the summer months and why they make great options:
1. Swimming
What better way to beat the summer heat than by taking a dip in the pool? Swimming is not only a refreshing activity but also a fantastic full-body workout. Whether you’re doing laps, playing games in the water, or simply splashing around with friends, swimming offers a fun way to stay active and cool during the hot summer months. It’s also an important life skill that allows kids to safely enjoy the water.
2. Basketball
While basketball can certainly be played year-round, it’s especially popular in the summer. Outdoor courts at parks, schools, and recreation centers allow kids to easily get together with friends for pick-up games. Basketball promotes teamwork as players must work together to advance the ball up the court. It also enhances hand-eye coordination through dribbling and shooting skills. The running involved makes basketball an excellent cardiovascular workout too.
3. Tennis & Pickleball
Tennis and pickleball are fantastic summer sports with many public outdoor courts available at parks, schools, and clubs. The warm weather is perfect for kids taking lessons, playing matches, or just rallying back and forth for fun. Tennis and pickleball develops agility through the constant movement across the court and side-to-side footwork. It also improves hand-eye coordination by having to track and hit the small ball back and forth. These sports require strategic thinking too as players construct rallying patterns and plan shot placement.
4. Golf
With no school in session, the long summer days are perfect for hitting the golf course. Golf teaches kids important values like patience, concentration, and etiquette in addition to athletic skills. Many junior golf programs, camps, and clinics are offered through courses and clubs over summer break when kids have free time to learn and play the game. Playing golf also gets kids outdoors walking the course and swinging the club for healthy exercise.
5. Ultimate Frisbee
Ultimate Frisbee is an exciting sport that brings people together. It’s all about fair play and teamwork, combining elements of football, soccer, and basketball where everyone gets involved. The game moves quickly, so you need to think fast and work well with your teammates. Whether you’re making an amazing catch, throwing the Frisbee, or planning your next move, Ultimate Frisbee is a blast to play with friends and family on sunny summer days.
6. Running
Running is a timeless summer sport that requires nothing more than a good pair of sneakers and the great outdoors. It’s a solo sport that allows for introspection and personal growth, but it can also be a social activity if you join a local running club or participate in races. From improving cardiovascular health to boosting mood and reducing stress, the benefits of running extend far beyond physical fitness. So, this summer, lace up your shoes, hit the pavement, and embrace the joy of running!
No matter which sports your kids choose to play this summer, they’re guaranteed to learn valuable skills, stay active, and most importantly, have a blast! With a wide array of options, including basketball, soccer, baseball, football, cheerleading, and more, Upward has something for everyone. Churches have the flexibility to organize full multi-week leagues or opt for shorter camps, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every schedule. It’s an excellent opportunity to keep kids engaged and connected within your community throughout the summer months!
Looking to start an Upward Sports Ministry at your church? We are ready to support you!
Learn more at www.upward.org/church-leaders
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