Collin Harvey asked:


If you are like any other that is involved in sports, you want to make sure that every player stays well and is always able to play in the game.  Of course, some injuries are inevitable.  It is easy for the children or youth to make a wrong move, adjust the wrong way, or simply run straight into the ball.  If you want to help with possible injuries, there are several ways to come prepared.  

The first thing that you should keep in mind is that most injuries are preventable.  Of course, kids will be kids, and it will be inevitable that they will make a wrong move.  However, the more you let them know about safety equipment, the less likely you will be to have major problems.  You can also be sure to over emphasize specific movements in every type of game.  Making them comfortable with these movements will help create an extra safety feature.  

Even if you had all of the wrapping in the world to help prevent injuries, there will still be specific injuries that occur.  Because you are playing a sport, you can easily expect twisted ankles, knees and arms.  If this happens, make sure that you have your first aid kit with you.  You can wrap the fractured or broken area until they get to a hospital.  Another type of injury that may occur may be from getting hit by a ball.  Having an ice pack or a way to help relieve some of the pain will help until they can get to the right area and receive medical attention, if they need it.  

These are not the only types of injuries that may occur.  There is also a caution that needs to be taken for things such as heat disorder.  It is easy for any player to get a little too much sun, causing them to overheat, and possibly pass out.  If this happens, be sure to get them in the shade and give them water.  You can easily prevent this by requiring all of your players to drink water on a consistent basis.  

No matter what the injury, there is always a solution.  By knowing what can be expected and coming prepared, you will be able to help the players enjoy the game, without walking away with an injury.  There are some stories that every child will want to tell about their game.  You want to make sure that it is not about an injury that occurred.



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Stu Owens asked:


It can be challenging and a lot of hard work or it can be simply just taking some time out. However, if you look at your gap year one thing should be gained from your time out – reward. Developing a skill, learning a language, experience a different way of living – all can be rewarding and mean that your gap year was a fulfilling experience.

One gap year experience is to play sport. Are you passionate about sport and feel like you want to share your passion with others? How about sharing this with youngsters in an exciting overseas environment? If these two questions really grab your attention then here is another one – are you going to do something about it? With a gap year sport programme you can develop your coaching skills whilst passing on your knowledge and enthusiasm to the next generation.

Sport coaching placements can last for between 10-19 weeks, depending on the sport you coach. Participants coach sport to youngsters in local schools and community teams. On average coaches may also be able to do a part time job and, if desired, it is often possible to supplement this with additional umpiring or refereeing work for your specialist sport.

Whilst challenging and demanding (you could be responsible for a whole class of future sporting heroes!) there is no doubt that the experience of working with youngsters over the course of a school term is highly rewarding. Coaching sport is also a fantastic addition to any CV, allowing you to demonstrate initiative, leadership and communication skills.

With most programmes, you will live alongside other gap year participants that could be in 4 star city centre accommodation that provides easy access via local transport to your place of work. You would also be assigned a local mentor to be on hand to assist you throughout your programme and you will be guaranteed a minimum number of coaching hours per week.

We recommend that people interested in coaching sport obtain suitable coaching and first aid qualifications before departure, as this will assist you in not only getting a job but also giving you assurance of coaching others. It is also beneficial for you to obtain umpiring/refereeing qualifications in your chosen sport in order to take advantage of the full range of work available.

If you are unable to obtain a coaching or First Aid qualification prior to your departure then don’t worry. Some schools are happy to employ people provided they have playing and coaching experience. You can also enrol on a coaching and First Aid course upon arrival in your chosen destination.

Really keen participants can also join a local sports club should you wish to play as well as coach sport during your programme and really make the most of your time and skill.

Sport is a wonderful way to discover a new culture. By combining playing or coaching sport with a gap year, you become integrated into a local community with their sports club or academy and become a second family. Playing or coaching sport provides a framework for your time away. Supplement this with travel, work experience and a whole new group of friends and that’s gap year experience in a nutshell.

People that are passionate about sport and travel can really make the most of their time overseas. Many gap year companies can organise regular social events and excursions, which ensure a fantastic experience for all, whilst ensuring you are always in touch with peers and local people alike. Gap year mentors also assist participants in finding work, dealing with any issues that may arise and co-ordinating travel plans – a real commitment to a personal experience.

So if you are passionate about sport and travel, then why not spend your Gap Year playing and coaching sport in exotic locations around the world.

Sport Lived organise sporting Gap Year programmes in exotic locations around the world. Play or coach your favourite sports and enjoy the excitement of living overseas. www.SportLived.co.uk



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