Why Major Sporting Events Matter for the Next Generation

Ben Madgen and Aaron Fernandez at The Y | Bennelong Sports Centre

Every four years, major international sporting events capture our attention. We cheer for remarkable performances, celebrate personal bests and marvel at the dedication required to compete on the world stage.

But the true value of these events extends far beyond medals.

For children and young people, seeing athletes compete at the highest level can be the spark that inspires a lifelong connection with sport, physical activity and healthy living.

At the Y NSW, we know that every athlete's journey starts somewhere. Long before the stadium lights, national uniforms and international competition, there is often a local pool, recreation centre, sporting club, school program or community organisation that helped a child discover what they're capable of.

Inspiration Creates Participation

Research consistently shows that sport delivers significant benefits for children and young people, including improved physical health, mental wellbeing, social connection and confidence. The World Health Organization identifies physical activity as critical for healthy growth and development, improved cognitive function and better mental health outcomes in children and adolescents. 

The Australian Sports Commission similarly highlights that participation in sport during childhood can provide lifelong physical, mental, social and economic benefits, while helping young people develop resilience and social connectedness. Children who play sport are also more likely to remain active as adults. 

The challenge is getting children started.

For many young people, seeing someone who looks like them achieve something extraordinary can be the motivation they need to give a sport a try. A televised race, a remarkable comeback story or an athlete speaking openly about their journey can transform sport from something they watch into something they believe they can do.

The Power of Role Models

Athletes are more than competitors. They are role models who demonstrate perseverance, discipline, teamwork and resilience.

The Australian Government notes that international sporting success inspires people to participate in sport and contributes to community pride and connection. 

While not every child who picks up a basketball, jumps into a swimming pool or joins a gymnastics class will become an elite athlete, that is not the point.

The goal is participation.

Sport helps children build friendships, learn how to work with others, develop confidence and experience the rewards of effort and persistence. These are skills that benefit them not only on the field but throughout their lives.

The Legacy Beyond the Competition

Leading research into major sporting event legacies suggests that one of the most valuable outcomes is increased participation in sport and physical activity. To achieve lasting impact, researchers emphasise the importance of connecting event inspiration with accessible community programs where children and families can get involved. 

The International Olympic Committee also identifies increased sports participation, educational programs and community engagement among the long-term benefits that major sporting events can create. 

In other words, inspiration alone is not enough.

Children need opportunities to take the next step.

Where the Y NSW Fits In

At the Y NSW, our purpose is to inspire and empower young people and communities to thrive.

Every day across our recreation centres, aquatic facilities, schools programs, outside school hours care services and outdoor recreation experiences, we help create environments where children feel safe, supported and encouraged to participate.

Sometimes that means learning to swim.

Sometimes it means joining a team for the first time.

Sometimes it means building confidence through outdoor challenges, making new friends or discovering a passion they never knew they had.

While only a small number of children will one day compete at the highest levels of sport, every young person deserves the opportunity to experience the benefits that participation brings.

That's why stories matter.

When we share the journeys of athletes, we aren't just celebrating success. We're showing young people that every journey starts with a first step, a first lesson, a first coach or a first opportunity.

And for many children, that first opportunity can change everything.

Looking Beyond the Starting Line

As the world turns its attention to major international sporting events, we're reminded that the greatest legacy is not found in the medal tally.

It's found in the children who are inspired to be active, try something new, join a team, build confidence and discover their potential.

Because every athlete starts somewhere.

And every child deserves the chance to start their journey.