We all know that sport is good for kids. It keeps them active, builds discipline, and teaches them the importance of teamwork. But did you know that playing team sports also helps children develop confidence and lifelong friendships? Despite these benefits, new research commissioned by ASICS has revealed that kids are quitting sports at an alarming rate. If you’ve ever considered enrolling your kids in a team sport, here are all of the reasons to make it a priority in 2025.
1. Sports build confidence that lasts a lifetime
Confidence is one of the most valuable life skills a child can develop, and playing a team sport is one of the best ways to build it. According to the ASICS study, more than half of respondents (56%) acknowledged that the confidence they gained from playing sports carried over into other areas of their lives. Whether it’s speaking up in class, tackling a tough exam, or eventually stepping into a leadership role at work, the self-belief instilled through sport can pay dividends for years to come.
2. Friendships and community keep kids engaged
It’s not just about fitness. Team sports are a great way for kids to make lasting friendships. The research found that 79% of respondents said playing sports helped them or others form strong social connections when they were younger.
When kids train, compete, and celebrate victories (or learn from losses) together, they form deep bonds. Unlike solo activities, team sports create an environment where kids feel a sense of belonging – a feeling that many struggle to find elsewhere, especially in an era where social interactions are increasingly digital.
3. The great dropout problem … and how to fix it!
Despite the overwhelming benefits, nearly half (45%) of participants admitted to quitting their favourite sport in their teens. The biggest culprits? Academic pressures (35%) and self-doubt (18% felt they weren’t ‘good enough’). The problem is even worse among Gen Z, with 54% lacking the confidence to continue.
The good news is that parents and coaches can play a huge role in keeping kids engaged. ASICS psychologist Meg McClurg suggests three simple strategies:
- Praise effort over results. Instead of focusing on winning, highlight personal improvements, such as “I loved how you kept hustling for that rebound!”
- Encourage a positive team culture. Creating a welcoming environment makes a world of difference. Even simple traditions, like sharing one positive takeaway after each game, help kids feel valued.
- Set small, achievable goals. Helping kids focus on progress, like “make three accurate passes today,” can prevent them from feeling overwhelmed.
4. The gender gap – keeping girls in the game
The research also uncovered a worrying trend: boys are twice as likely to continue playing sports into adulthood compared to girls (41% vs. 19%). This gap may be influenced by societal pressures, self-doubt, or simply a lack of encouragement. However, staying in sports has huge benefits for young women, including stress relief, confidence-building, and a strong sense of community.
One way to bridge this gap is by celebrating female-dominated sports more. The study found that while netball is the most played team sport among women, nearly 40% of Australians feel it receives the least recognition compared to sports like basketball, soccer, and rugby league. Elevating women’s sports in the media and within communities can inspire young girls to keep playing.
5. The power of sport in a screen-dominated world
In today’s digital-dominated world, team sports offer a much-needed break from digital overload. Research suggests younger generations are more prone to insecurities due to social media, making real-life activities like sport essential for mental wellbeing. ASICS Oceania Managing Director, Mark Brunton, emphasises that sport isn’t just about fitness – it’s about feeling happier, healthier, and more confident.
To drive home the importance of Kids and Team Sport, ASICS is launching the world’s first ASICS Netball Festival Celebrating Confidence, supported by NETFIT Netball, in Sydney on February 8th, 2025. This free event is designed to inspire confidence in young players, focusing on fun, friendship, and personal growth rather than pressure and performance.
Attendees will enjoy exclusive workshops run by NETFIT, covering attack, defence, and team-building skills, alongside panel talks, exhibition activities, and meet-and-greets with professional players, including stars from the Diamonds, NSW Swifts, and Silver Ferns.
Attendees will also have the chance to win a free pair of news ASICS NETBURNER BALLISTIC FF 3 netball shoes, perfect for putting to the test during the workshops. The event will feature a braiding station, ASICS Village for photos and gear signings, and a goodie bag for young players. Parents and guardians can relax in a dedicated comfort corner with complimentary coffee, cookies, and massage services while supporting their young athletes from the sidelines.
