When your child plays youth sports, we know you want to be the best parent you can be and make sure they’re set up for success! The most important thing to do is make sure your child is happy and having fun. It’s easy to get caught up in the game just like the players and coaches do, but you should always set a good example for your child. Check out these 8 tips for parents with kids who play youth sports: (more…)
Over the last 10 years, martial arts has become more popular in the United States. Instead of the traditional youth sports like football, basketball, and soccer, more kids are wanting to get involved in martial arts — and their parents support it too! At Rocky Top Sports World, we’ve held our fair share of martial arts events and tournaments. Read on to find out 5 benefits of youth martial arts and why it’s becoming more popular.
Martial arts is among the oldest forms of self-defense. Both parents and kids can rest easy knowing that they can defend themselves if they need to. Martial arts teaches youth to mentally and physically refrain from violence and only use it as a last resort for self-defense. They will learn how to protect themselves with both their mental and physical strength.
Martial arts is also a great confidence booster. The more skills you learn, the more powerful you’ll feel. There will be no greater feeling than earning a new belt and reaching the next milestone. As your child works their way up the ranks, they’ll see how their hard work is paying off. The more they accomplish, the more comfortable they’ll be with their ability and won’t be afraid to step outside their comfort zone and try new things.
3. Stay ActiveSimilar to any youth sport, martial arts is a great way to stay active. Unlike other sports, however, martial arts provides a whole body workout. Not only does it require strength, but it is great for developing motor skills and coordination. It combines both mental and physical toughness. Regardless of what form of martial arts your child is practicing, it will get them up and moving.
Martial arts is also great for teaching youth to have respect for themselves and others. They will learn to respect their instructor and those around them. Martial arts instructors will bring up the idea of respect regularly and instruct students to practice respect for themselves, their parents, their teachers, and their peers.
Martial arts also teaches youth about setting goals and being disciplined enough to reach them. Once they have a goal in mind, such as earning a new belt, they will learn to focus and see it through until that goal is reached. The self-discipline they learn can be carried through to all other aspects of life, from chores at home to assignments for school.
Youth martial arts is becoming increasingly popular because it can benefit a person on multiple levels. It’s not just about physical fitness and being strong, it’s about mental toughness as well. Children learn values they can take with them and apply to many different aspects of life. Martial arts teaches kids the fundamental discipline they need to succeed in both school and life.
Our 80-acre state-of-the-art sports complex is the perfect spot for a martial arts event or tournament. There is plenty of space for mats and bleacher seating for spectators. We are located in Gatlinburg, TN and just a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and all the incredible attractions, restaurants, and shops in the area. To learn more about everything we have to offer, check out the Rocky Top Sports World Facilities page.
To get pumped up before a big game, the best thing to do is listen to a warm-up song! Nothing gives you that rush of adrenaline you need more than one of your favorite songs. To help you decide what to put on your pre-game playlist, we’ve made a list of some of the best songs to warm up to. (more…)
Sometimes it’s not until you’re given a challenge that you realize how strong you are. When you play youth sports, you learn the importance of working hard to achieve goals, like winning a game. There have been many youth athletes who have overcome obstacles to have a shining moment, and it’s these moments that become an inspiration to other youth athletes. Here are 4 true youth sports stories that will inspire you. (more…)
A team can’t be successful without teamwork! When you’re coaching a youth sports team, the best thing to teach them is the importance of teamwork. Learning at a young age what it’s like to be a part of a team and how to work well with others will benefit them throughout the rest of their lives. If you are looking to improve teamwork on your youth sports team, follow these 5 tips: (more…)
Joining a travel sports team can be a great opportunity for young athletes! Designed for the most talented and dedicated players, these elite teams travel far and wide to compete in games and tournaments with the best of the best. While playing on a travel team can be an amazing experience, it is also a significant commitment for young athletes and their families. As you decide whether travel sports are right for your child, be sure to keep the following factors in mind. (more…)
The digital revolution is transforming the world of youth sports. Whether you’re looking to save time on team management activities, connect with fans, or improve your training, there is an app for that! To help you navigate all of the new products out there, Rocky Top Sports World has put together a guide to six of the best youth sports apps and websites. (more…)
It is no coincidence that a large percentage of CEOs and elected officials were athletes in their youth! As many business and political leaders will tell you, they started to develop the skills that have served them well throughout their careers when they were student-athletes. Here at Rocky Top Sports World, we have seen first hand how playing sports brings out the best in kids and young adults. Read on to learn the top seven traits that make student-athletes great leaders. (more…)
As the longtime basketball coach for the University of Tennessee’s Lady Volunteers, Pat Summitt became an icon in the world of college sports. Racking up 1,098 career wins, 16 SEC titles, and 8 National Championships, Summitt remains the winningest coach in men’s and women’s NCAA basketball history. (more…)
Although it is often overlooked, culture is one of the most important aspects of a youth sports team. A positive culture makes playing on a team fun and rewarding, while a toxic culture can stress athletes out and sabotage their performance. Bo Hanson, a former Olympic athlete and coaching consultant, defines team culture as “the way we behave on this team.” The behavior of athletes on a team is a reflection of the team’s values, so a good team culture starts with a set of shared principles. To help you create a successful culture for your youth sports team, Rocky Top Sports World has put together the following four tips. (more…)