Whatever your young athlete is facing this fall, I hope that sports are on the calendar. Although many states have opted to delay or cancel high school sports for the fall, youth sports do not need to be out of the picture.

Of course, it will be harder for football players to fill in the vacuum, but it’s important that they find an outlet for their competitiveness and an opportunity to continue their mental and physical development.

For kids who play sports, competition is needed now more than ever. It allows a chance for a distraction from the COVID-19 constrictions and perhaps adds a small taste of normalcy.

Whether you find club teams, community leagues or even just group or personalized training, do everything you can to find a sports outlet for your child. If your child plays football, you may have to be more creative. Check out USA Football’s 60 Ways to Play guide or their Backyard Games.

Last week I listened to our governor and some high-level sports leaders talk about the importance of youth sports for kids and it reminded me of why our young people need them so much.

Youth sports teach discipline.

Youth sports provide a place for kids to make connections with teammates and coaches. For some, it becomes a family.

For some, it is the motivation that keeps them in school and pushes them to work hard for college.

Youth sports help students learn to work toward goals.

It helps them learn a good work ethic. I’ve talked to more than one business owner who was eager to hire college athletes because they were more likely to understand the value of hard work.

Youth sports teach kids leadership skills and teamwork.

It teaches kids good healthy lifestyle habits that will stick with them hopefully for life. My kids in their 20s and 30s all played sports through college and they are still exercising faithfully and eating wisely, good habits that started when they were playing youth sports.

Although school sports may not be happening, I encourage families to look for alternatives. Your athletes need the outlet of sports for their mental and physical health.

Janis Meredith is a family life coach who wants to help all parents raise champions. You can find out more at rcfamilies.com.