Sportsense
Originally established in the year 2000 as the Athletic Assistance Fund, Sportsense helps to ensure that young people are afforded an opportunity to participate in community recreational leagues by providing financial assistance. Studies show that sports offer children more than just physical benefits. Organized athletics typically help children academically as well as socially. Since the benefits of sports are the same whether or not a child is an accomplished athlete, municipal leagues allow all enrolled youngsters to play competitively.
Eligibility for financial assistance is based upon two criteria:(1) interviewing skills for youth in grades K-5 and essay writing skills for youth in grades 6 thru 12; and (2) academic abilities as demonstrated on progressive report cards. Applications will be reviewed in early August. [click to download a PDF of our application] Applications for sports played during the Spring of the coming year, should be submitted now. Funds may be used for such extra-curricular activities as football, basketball, cheerleading, baseball, soccer or lacrosse. *A selection committee comprised of parents, civic leaders, clergy and coaches review applications to ensure that funding is awarded on a fair and equitable basis.
When a family is awarded financial assistance, a check for the amount awarded will be mailed directly to the league. In the event that we are unable to pay the entire registration fee, the family will be notified of the balance before the award is granted.
*This is not an exhaustive list of eligible sports. Additional activities will be reviewed on a case by case basis.
Ten (10) Benefits of Athletic Activity
- Athletics are fun. They give your child something to do and a group of friends with similar goals and interests.
- Research shows that youth who play sports – especially girls – are more likely to have a positive body image and healthy self-esteem. Both boys and girls are less likely to be overweight.
- Youth involved in athletics are more likely to care for their bodies. They are less likely to take drugs or smoke because they realize the impact that these destructive activities can have upon their performance. Girls who play sports are also less likely to become pregnant.
- Physical activities are a good way to relieve stress and reduce depression.
- Athletics help youth develop discipline. They learn to set goals and then work with others to achieve those goals.
- Athletics help develop teamwork and leadership skills. Youth quickly learn that they have to work together as a team to win the game.
- Youth who engage in athletics quickly learn that sometimes you win and sometimes you lose. When coached to be a good sport in both situations, they learn to deal with disappointment.
- Statistics show that youth who are involved in athletics while in high school are more likely to experience academic success and graduate from high school.
- Motor skills, strategic thinking, and even math skills are learned by participating in athletic. Students develop strategic thinking as they figure out plays and the best way to get around a player or score a goal. Math skills are used as they calculate scores and stats.
- Regular exercise increases quality of life. Children who exercise are likely to to continue the practice into adulthood.
Via Families.com