Cornish rugby players are calling on parents to get more involved in their kids’ sporting activities.
National Parents in Sport Week (October 1-7) is run by the NSPCC - and the Cornish Pirates are lending their support to the campaign.
Anne Tiivas of the NSPCC said: ‘We know parents play a critical role in youth sport. In fact, without parental support and involvement – from washing kits to the taxi of mum and dad – it’s likely that youth sport would cease to exist.
‘We also know that without parents’ involvement in their child’s sport, children are less likely to achieve and sustain a lifelong interest in sport and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
‘Parents in Sport Week is important because it encourages parents to make sure they are positively influencing their child’s involvement and wellbeing in sport, and to recognise their role in keeping them safe.
‘It also encourages clubs to ensure they are engaging with parents.’
The Cornish Pirates have a thriving youth section, and parents play a pivotal role, said coach and player Chris Morgan, himself a dad.
‘Rugby promotes proudly held values, including respect, discipline, fitness, teamwork – and good sportsmanship,’ he said.
’In relation to such things, many parents understand the importance of the role they play. And for those who don’t, there is encouragement given by club officials, many of whom are parents themselves!
‘At the Pirates we have a thriving youth section, well supported by parents, whilst the community work undertaken by the club’s senior team, the Cornish Pirates, strives to embrace not just the needs of young players and their coaches, but also parents.’