By Dr. Jeff Bird—
MUNCIE, IN—Participation in youth sports improves outcomes for children in multiple important parameters. The data is convincing. Youth sports participation is linked to significant improvements in physical health, cognitive function, and social-emotional development.
I have recently helped form a new non-profit board called “the Muncie Youth Sports Organization.” Several community leaders and educators have agreed to serve on this board. We are partnering with Muncie Community Schools and local foundations to begin putting structure and process together to encourage all Muncie Community Schools students K-8th grade to engage in sports for simple fun and recreation or of a more competitive nature.
I had an opportunity to engage with two local leaders who are promoting greater opportunities for youth in Muncie. Jon Anderson, a lifelong Muncie native, Southside High School and Ball State graduate, is the executive director of the Muncie Sports Commission and has great talent and passion for this work. Jon has been involved in a variety of youth sport development programs. He said, “We don’t love sport for the one-in-a-million shot at going pro—we love them because of the countless experiences, relationships, and life lessons that we learn along the way. Can’t we all agree that we should be providing every child with access and opportunities to experience sports in that way?”
Jon Anderson photo by Dr. Jeff Bird.
I also met with Jini Morgan, also a Southside High School graduate who then matriculated to the University of Evansville graduating with a BS in Science Sociology and then went on to Concordia University where she earned a MA in Coaching and Athletic Administration. Jini is the owner of First Serve, the organization managing the “old northwest YMCA building” known commonly as the indoor tennis center—now with the addition of several pickleball courts. She developed a love of racquet sports as an adult and now has great passion for teaching and coaching youth in tennis and pickleball. The First Serve building is still the home of the Ball State University men’s and women’s tennis teams.
Jini and Jon both serve on the Muncie Youth Sports Organization board with me. Other community leaders include Pastor Greg Lex, Jim Lowe, Dea Bell, Rich Spisak, Jeff Howe, Joe Schmaltz, and Bob Hatfield.
Sports were an integral part of my life growing up, and I hope to be able to make a positive impact for the youth of Muncie by giving back my time for all that was given to me.
We know youth sports make a difference in our children, and therefore our future.
How might you contribute?
