Sports Day, Every Day: Why Play Matters
As parents, we often remind our children about the importance of studying hard, keeping up with homework, and excelling in exams. But over the years, I’ve learned that books alone don’t shape a child’s character. Sports, in their own unique way, play just as important a role in building discipline, confidence, and resilience. As a mother of four daughters, I’ve seen how each of them has grown through sports, and I believe every child deserves the chance to experience that journey.
Khadeeja, my eldest, first picked up a golf club at the age of eight. What began as a simple introduction quickly blossomed into a passion. She had to stop golfing when she entered boarding school, but her sporting journey branched out in a different direction. Today, she balances university life while playing touch rugby for Putrajaya. Watching her juggle these activities has shown me how sports teach children to manage their time, stay committed, and push through challenges.
Ameena and Fateema, my second and youngest, found their calling in archery. There’s something magical about watching them stand tall, bow in hand, eyes fixed on the target. Archery has taught them patience, focus, and the ability to stay calm under pressure, qualities that spill over into their everyday lives.
Maryam, meanwhile, has explored golf and fencing before settling into volleyball, proudly representing her school team. Her journey reminds me that sports are also about exploration, about trying different things until you find the one that sparks joy. And all four of them share a love for jiujitsu, though they’re currently taking a break from it. Even so, the lessons of discipline and respect they learned on the mat remain with them.
Through these experiences, I’ve seen how sports give children more than just physical strength. They provide a healthy outlet for energy, a break from the routine of books and exams, and a chance to discover who they are outside the classroom. Sports build discipline, the kind that comes from showing up for practice even when it’s tiring. They boost confidence, the kind that grows when a child scores a goal, hits a bullseye, or dares to step onto the field. And they lift morale because victories, big or small, are sweeter when shared with teammates and friends.
Of course, I won’t pretend it’s always easy. Sports can be time-consuming, and some are costly. As parents, we juggle schedules, budgets, and commitments. But not every sport requires heavy investment. Running, volleyball, or even simple playground games are low-maintenance ways to keep children active. What matters most is allowing them to start young, to explore, and to find joy in movement. The benefits far outweigh the challenges because the lessons children learn through sports stay with them for life.
As we celebrate LOE Sports Day, I want to encourage parents to see sports not as an extra activity, but as an essential part of childhood. Whether it’s golf, archery, rugby, or something as simple as running in the park, every step, every swing, and every throw builds character. Sports create memories that children will carry into adulthood, friendships that last beyond the field, and confidence that shines in every aspect of their lives.
And today, as we watch children running across the field, parents cheering from the sidelines, and the community coming together in laughter and support, we are reminded of what sports truly mean. They are not just about medals or trophies but about joy, resilience, and togetherness. LOE Sports Day is more than an event; it is a celebration of growth, of spirit, and of the bright future we are building for our children.ast beyond the field, and confidence that shines in every aspect of their lives.
Written by: Naziah Nawawie / 14 July 2026
