Letter of the Day | Sports can unite and change the society

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Sports provide key dynamics when it comes to the growth of communal principles by enhancing the physical and mental well-being of individuals. Sports have also brought one’s country on to the platform, regionally or internationally. When we look at athletics and football, we have seen how much have they impacted Jamaica.

Sports help one to communicate with their teammates and create a bond. It requires players to set aside differences and work together to ensure the success of the team. Whether it’s showing up to practice on time, or performing drills at home to improve accuracy. Sports instil a sense of responsibility in the players by teaching them that progress takes effort and sacrifice. It coaches each individual to set goals and pushes them to work towards achieving them. The same can be applied in the real world, where players can apply the same goal-setting and work ethics. He or she feels responsible to improve themselves and the world around them in some way, just as they do in the game.

Athletics and football are two of the favourite sports in Jamaica, and we have famous athletic stars, locally and internationally, who have represented Jamaica very well. These sports have the power to bring people together, regardless of their age, race, gender, culture, or nationality, and that is never truer than at the football World Cup and the Olympics.

The FIFA World Cup is one such example, where Jamaicans are passionate about their teams. We see vendors selling T-shirts of different countries; people wearing various printed shirts and handbands, and even painting their bodies; and schools organising ‘Jersey Day’, where students represent the team they are supporting. People were in the streets and gave huge cheers whenever a goal was scored. The bar, pub or home where supporting fans watching these sports would go crazy, and would turn to the closest person possible to celebrate with them. Everyone seemed to be having a good time and enjoying the competition and the company. Throughout Jamaica the atmosphere has been upbeat. A community like Trench Town is a great example of the vibe one can relate to in supporting a particular football team.

Imagine Jamaica making it to the World Cup once more. The Government of Jamaica needs to invest more in sports. There are lots of talented young people who just need the drive to continue their dreams. With good investment and guidance of our youth, many have the potential to shine internationally. Through sports, Jamaica will be more unified and it will change society in a positive way forever.

I hope that one day Jamaica will return to the FIFA World Cup and will be victorious.

RENAE RHOOMS

Geography Teacher

Jonathan Grant High School