Mix & Match

With less risk of injury, engaging in a variety of sports is a win-win situation for your child

Talking with your child about sports can sometimes feel like a committee meeting. Dad thinks Junior should play one sport, but Junior wants to focus on another. Meanwhile, Mom has a third sport in mind for her child.

As it turns out, everyone is right. Studies have shown that playing multiple sports has lasting health benefits:

Reduced injury risk
Overuse injuries are more common in athletes who specialize. Playing different sports allows kids to stay active while resting certain muscles during each off-season.

Better motor skill development
No matter what we do later in life, everyone benefits from good balance, flexibility, strength and agility. The unique range of motions in a variety of sports can help build that foundation for life.

Prevents burnout
Specializing in one sport can become both physically and mentally stressful. In some cases, the child may want to quit. Playing multiple sports can help lower the stakes and keep it fun.

Builds the brain muscle
Different sports require learning strategies and developing practice styles in different ways. Communication, coordination and problem-solving skills from each sport can carry over to other sports, as well as to arts and academics.

But even if your child has a dream of turning pro someday, the data shows that multiple sports will likely help him or her. For example, a study of the 2017 NFL draft found that 30 of the 32 first round picks played multiple sports in high school. Another study of the NCAA’s Division 1 female athletes found that only 17 percent had specialized in their college sport. Most had played at least one other sport in high school.

Allowing or even encouraging your child to try a variety of sports will ensure your child gets the all the physical, mental and emotional benefits that athletics have to offer.