More than a game: the power of youth sports
Picture a group of kids suiting up for their first big game. They've spent weeks practicing, learning, and growing-not just as athletes, but as teammates and individuals. Beyond the scores and final whistles, youth sports build confidence, resilience, and lifelong friendships. And behind every team, a dedicated coach is making it all possible.
Volunteer coaches are the backbone of our youth sports programs, stepping up to guide young athletes through wins, losses and everything in between. In 2024, our Parks and Recreation volunteer coaches didn't just lead teams; they helped shape the future of hundreds of kids in our community.
The Impact of Volunteer Coaches in 2024
This past year, 276 volunteer coaches dedicated an incredible 8,413 hours to mentoring young athletes in basketball, flag football, volleyball, floor hockey, baseball, softball and inline hockey. On average, each coach committed 25 hours per season, leading practices, coaching games and fostering a positive environment for kids to grow.
These volunteers did more than teach the fundamentals of the game. They instilled values like perseverance, teamwork and sportsmanship-skills that extend far beyond the field or court. Every high-five after a great play, every encouraging word after a tough loss and every moment of guidance made a lasting impact on the kids who looked up to them.
For Brian, a volunteer coach in the Castle Rock Parks and Recreation Department's winter basketball league, coaching began with a simple request. "When my daughter Brinley asked me to be her coach, I couldn't say no," he said. Coaching has become a deeply rewarding experience for him, especially watching his daughter gain confidence by applying new skills on the court. "By far one of the most rewarding experiences for a parent," he shared. "If she had not asked me to coach, I would just be sitting on the sidelines instead of being part of the game."
Beyond teaching basketball skills, Brian has seen firsthand how sports build resilience and character. "We had one little girl on our team that we coached for three years, and she never scored a basket, despite taking multiple shots. During the fourth season, she shot and scored! The entire team went crazy. It was one of the coolest experiences." Moments like these highlight the impact that volunteer coaches have on young athletes-not just in their abilities, but in their confidence and perseverance.
Brian's daughter Brinley, now nine and a half, recognizes the impact her coaches have had on her growth. "In gymnastics, my coach spots me on new skills, and in basketball, my dad teaches me how to shoot, defend and pick," she explained. "They help build my confidence by saying I did a really good job. They tell me what to work on, and when I fix it, I feel proud." She's learned lasting lessons from her time in sports, including perseverance. "Not giving up and that you don't have to be big to do something big. Nothing is impossible because even the word impossible says, 'I'm possible.'"
Join the team: make a difference through coaching
If you've ever considered coaching, now is the time to get involved. You don't need to be an expert in the sport-just a passion for supporting young athletes and creating positive experiences. Many of our volunteers coach their own kids' teams, making it a rewarding way to bond while making a difference in the community. Be part of the team that helps shape the next generation. Sign up today to become a volunteer coach and experience the joy of mentoring young athletes while making a lasting impact. Learn more.