Sport: The Joy of Local Sport
Local sport is different because it is raw and unprocessed, unlike that you might see on your goggle box. There's a sensation of truth and reality that cannot be replicated in the "big teams" and can't be understood 'til you're the midfielder, goal attack or even watching from the sidelines on a school sports field. The atmosphere out-shouts Old Trafford from the over enthusiastic dads (and mums). Coaches have real tests to stress them like homework to mark and star players in detention. The pitches and courts have real history from the surrounding local estates but most of all the players will out perform the professionals and the games will last in your memory.
What separates each and every boy, girl, woman and man playing these regional games from the "professionals" sitting at the top is the reason why they are there. Our local sports heroes play purely for enjoyment with a touch of pride whereas these superstars are playing to pay for a new sports car. Loyalty to a club lasts as long as the paycheck and this is one of many reasons why we can't relate to these celebrities. On the other hand we can relate to local sport because we can be a part of local sport, in any shape or form.
Local sport is everywhere and easy to get into especially if you're young. All over the Evening Post website there are ways to get involved particularly in youth leagues. But you don't have to be young to enjoy the benefits of sport; the Downs football leagues are full of past-it players because of the wonder that is substitutions. Even if you aren't able to participate directly I'm betting that every reader has someone they can support; family, friends and colleagues- not that I'm suggesting your colleagues aren't your friends- all needing vocal encouragement to help them achieve their best.
Cotham School has been achieving sporting brilliance for years and recently has reached county finals in badminton- junior and senior, indoor athletics-boys seniors, cross country-boys and girls seniors and are Bristol schools champions for Year 10 netball. The Bristol co-op swim team has been on form lately winning four swim meets in a row. The Webba Basketball league is full of exciting games for all ages and genders. In division 1 there's only 4 points separating Trowbridge A at the top and the University of Bristol team in fourth. The Bristol 2010k is taking applicants now, you've got till the 9th of May to get fit - don't worry it's the same old 10k just it's in 2010. Bristol Sport Unlimited is bringing sport to ages 5-19 in the north, east and south of Bristol with a range of sporting activities planned for term time evenings and weekends. They encourage children with a disability to get involved and are well prepared to talk through the support your child may need, but best of all you get a free t-shirt! London 2012 is coming and because of this the government are pushing sport upon us like a big peer pressuring bully, so take advantage of your options and enjoy it.
I have recently got back into football by joining a Downs Association football team- told you about the past-it players and I seriously couldn't recommend it more. Sure, it can be cold, wet and a little bit rough but nothing beats the feeling of being part of a team.
Local sport is a phenomenon that will never die. It's the outlet through which children everywhere, and adamant adults, pursue their sporting fantasies. It's the last remaining obstacle to tackle the ever rising levels of obesity and its thriving right here in our close communities. So get out there and support it.
Joey
