Playing sport, whether with family or friends, is one of life’s great pleasures, and hopefully in this article I can show you what makes sport great.

It is important to me that I play sport, and has been at each stage of my life. I have tried many sports, but my sporting passions have been soccer, squash and now golf. Personally, I cannot imagine life without sport whether watching or playing.

A few months ago I met someone who had no intention of watching the Olympics Games, and openly declared a hatred for sport. I can understand people having other interests, and perhaps disliking sport, but to hate sport seems extreme, especially when it offers so much.

For starters:

• It provides fun and entertainment
• Makes you fit and healthy
• Improves co-ordination
• Relieves stress and anxiety
• Builds character
• Enables you to make friends.

These are all very good reasons for participating in sport, or at least appreciating its value.

Object of sport

Whether competing at the highest level, or playing in the back garden, there is just something about sport that makes you want to do your best. This for me is the object of sport.

Doing your best involves:

• Passion
• Discipline
• Hard work
• Dedication
• Determination
• Learning new skills.

These are all key values that can help you throughout life, as well as in sport.

Emotions in Sport

You never know what is going to happen next. It is never predictable like many other forms of entertainment. Sports can be pure theatre involving a wide range of emotions whether you win or lose. These emotions have to be successfully managed if you are to do your best.

Sport teaches you how to win graciously, and hopefully how to accept defeat without throwing your toys out of the pram. Ultimately, sport is a great way to express yourself, respect others, and to gain a sense of achievement.

Most importantly, sport lifts you in body, mind and spirit.

You are never too old

It is not only children that can benefit from participating in sport. It is just as important for adults to have a social life and regular exercise. Why not join a sports club or local activity center where you can:

• Meet like-minded people
• Get active in a relaxed and easy way
• Make some new friends.

Try a new sport

You can also learn a new sport in your own backyard and garden by getting your own sports equipment. Playing sports such as badminton, volleyball and table tennis can help family members to maintain a healthy and active life.

Practice your favourite sport at home

For those who want to practice, there are also multi-purpose sports nets that fire the ball back to you for practice purposes. These are great for practicing sports such as soccer, baseball and golf. Kids will happily spend hours with friends practicing their favorite sports.

Great sporting moments in 2012

This year there has been some outstanding sporting moments. We have seen top sportsmen, sportswomen and spectators moved to tears from people either winning or losing in the midst of great sporting moments:

• The Olympic Games provided many special performances
• Miguel Cabrera completing the baseball triple, the first in 45 years
• Europe’s spectacular victory in the Ryder Cup

These memorable sporting events all show that in sport anything is possible. Sport can be truly inspirational for players, fans, communities, countries and even continents.

What was your most exciting sporting moment in 2012?

I love sports and you should too!

With billions of people the world over participating in sport, it must be a good thing. The positive aspects and attractions of sport are there for all to see, enjoy and embrace.

Passion, commitment, discipline and determination are all desirable qualities you can find in sport, and you are never too young, or too old to get started. So, why not get out there and discover your sporting passion.