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MY TOWN: Sports brings smiles, bridges gaps

Watching sports seems to be something people of all ages across the world come together to enjoy.

There are so many great things about sports of any kind.

Watching sports seems to be something people of all ages across the world come together to enjoy.

There are few things that can bring a whole community, province or even country together in a way sports can.

Whether it’s cheering on a hockey or football team or cheering on your country in something such as the Olympics, or a world competition, one thing is for sure, it can bridge the gaps unlike anything else.

On a smaller scale I watched it bring families together, friends together and even siblings who otherwise may not see eye to eye.

Not only can sports do all of the above to spectators it has many other amazing benefits such as those related health.

Sports of any kind seem to have major benefits to health, things as increasing and building stamina, cardio, co-ordination and much more.

That’s not to say there aren’t disadvantages when it comes to health such breaking a bone, or getting hurt to some degree in many sports but those who love to play a game know the risks.

Kids playing sports is one of the greatest things as it helps create and teach camaraderie, team building, working with others and sharing.

It may take some time for some youngsters to come around and enjoy playing on a team but those that stick it out seem to blossom in the long run.

I watched this exact thing play itself out many times in the past few years with the great minor hockey program in the Hazeltons.

Furthermore, this past weekend in Kitwanga was such a treat on so many levels.

Not only was there some great sports action to watch and photograph but watching the sidelines, the bleachers and talking to many of the hundreds of people showing support and enjoying some great games, it was very evident how advantageous having sports in our lives can be.

While I know I am not stating something new and many people realize the importance of sports and participation but sometimes it’s nice to be reminded of all the great things we do have going on in the north, in the province, in the country and the world.

I am sure I will have to reiterate all of this in a few months when our Canadian athletes once again take the world stage.

In the meantime, I encourage everyone to get out and play sports, ride a bike or watch a game and go cheer on a friend or family member!