Community sport an overwhelming good

AS the summer sports season draws to a close and school gets back into full swing, community sporting groups are encouraging locals young and old to join their teams. A report commissioned by Sport and Recreation Victoria in 2020 titled The Value of Community Sport & Active Recreation Infrastructure found that the infrastructure generated a value greater than $7 billion. The report noted that the calculated value captures much less than the true value of community sport as only a portion of the value–adding aspects were included in the calculation. The report stated, "community sport and active recreation infrastructure can be used as a mechanism to deliver outcomes that extend into almost all facets of Victorian life, making people happier, healthier and more productive, improving social cohesion and contributing directly and indirectly to a stronger economy." Local sporting groups agree, citing many first–hand examples of the value that community sport has for both individuals and the wider community. President of the Mansfield Junior Football Club Nick Berry noted the impacts that it has on families and players in building a network of friends. "[There is an] opportunity for both the participant and their families to meet and interact with other families," he said. "It is here that you can form friendships that can possibly last a life time." President of the Delatite Cricket Club Peter Scales noted the sense of belonging and confidence that team sports instil in players. "I have seen over the years many young people gain confidence through their involvement in the cricket club; not only in the skills of the sport itself, but in their ability to interact with others and in their general self–confidence," he said. Sharna Byrne from the Mansfield Football and Netball Club said the health benefits for individuals playing sports are an overwhelming positive. "It can reduce the risks of chronic health conditions as well mental health issues, and it also builds resilience for not only the individual but also as a community," she said. Respond Project Coordinator from Mansfield District Hospital Lucy Marks pointed out the wider community benefits on the health of not only those who participate in sport. "It reduces pressure on local health care system," she said. Ms Marks also explained that leading an active lifestyle lowers the possibility of getting sick and having to take time off from work or school, reducing the pressure on the workforce and education system.

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