Why Participating in International Sports Tournaments is Important for Children’s Growth
Why Participating in International Sports Tournaments is Important for Children’s Growth
Jennifer Wallace
Participating in sports tournaments offers children invaluable opportunities to develop crucial life skills that extend far beyond the playing field. These experiences help build resilience as children learn to overcome challenges and setbacks, while also fostering a strong sense of fair play and sportsmanship. Competing in international events exposes them to diverse cultures and people, broadening their perspectives and helping them embrace inclusivity. Most importantly, tournaments teach the power of teamwork, where children understand the significance of collaboration, communication, and working towards a common goal. These life lessons are essential in shaping well-rounded, confident individuals.
For the first time ever, ICS Côte d'Azur bilingual school participated in the U11 Med Cup football tournament in Verona, bringing a mixed team of 12 players from PY5 and PY6. This is a 3-day tournament with 36 boy’s teams and 17 girl’s teams participating from international schools across Europe and beyond.
Facing tough competition in the group stage, our team fought hard and qualified for the Champions League bracket. On Saturday, they played exceptionally well, narrowly losing their final match on penalties. Sunday’s final match secured 4th place in the Silver Champions League, an incredible achievement for a team that had never played as a mixed boy/girl team or competed in a tournament of this scale.
Beyond their talent and determination, our students showed resilience, respect, and team spirit, bouncing back from tough matches and giving their all. It was an unforgettable weekend, filled with learning, growth, and memories that will last a lifetime. Well done, team ICS!
