In a world where the wellbeing and development of our youth are paramount, understanding the role of sports in shaping young minds and fostering positive behavioural change is crucial. During this webinar we explored the impact that organised sports programs can have on children, not only in terms of physical health but also as a tool to mitigate youth violence. Listen to the replay, as we delve into the evidence, share success stories, and discuss strategies to harness the potential of sports and reducing violence. Join our movement as we explore how sports can be a catalyst for positive change, fostering resilience, teamwork, and discipline, ultimately creating a safer environment for young people.
Speakers included:
- Caleb Jackson, who chaired the event and shared an overview of the YEF Toolkit specific to sports programmes.
- Tranai Todd, CEO of Support Through Sport: Tranai set up support through sport aged 16 and has gone on to deliver sports programmes across Nottingham. A long-standing member of YEF’s Youth Advisory Board, Tranai shared insights about the organisation he runs and also shared his view (and others) about the role sport plays and can play to reduce youth violence.
- Professor Geoff Thompson MBE, Chair of Youth Charter: Geoff’s journey from a five-time world Karate Champion to a black leader fighting both in the ring and for communities illustrates his profound impact. His rise from Hackney’s social exclusion to a sporting ambassador and administrator spans over 35 years, influencing major global games and advocating for youth and community development. Geoff’s roles include advising government departments, board memberships, and founding the Youth Charter. Recognized in prestigious lists, awarded an MBE, and a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, his insights into positive activities promise invaluable guidance.
- Haydn Morgan, Senior Lecturer, University of Bath: Associate Professor in Sport Management at the University of Bath (UK). Most of his published research has explored the connection between participation in sport and the enhancement of social inclusion within marginalised populations. More specifically, Haydn’s research seeks to explore how engagement with sport and physical activity can act as a tool to divert or prevent engagement with crime and anti-social behaviour; may facilitate access into education, employment, and training; develop citizenship qualities; support community development; or enable young people to accumulate and enhance various forms of capital which are vital to their sense of inclusion and well-being.
- Dr Carolynne Mason, Senior Lecturer in Sport and Social Justice, University of Loughborough: Carolynne currently teaches on several Sport Management undergraduate and master’s modules including Critical Perspectives in Sport Management (Part A), Sporting Integrity (MSc) and Development of Sport (MSc). She is currently module leader for Research Skills for Sports Managers (MSc) in addition to supervising both undergraduate and master’s students’ research projects and PhD students. Carolynne has previously undertaken research and teaching roles within the Faculty of Education at Cambridge University, the School of Education at Leicester University, the School of Business and Economics at Loughborough University and the Open University.