Sport New Zealand Ihi Aotearoa (Sport NZ) and Te Hau Kori held a seminar on how play-based, child-first approaches can change young people’s experiences of movement and sport.
Experts shared what the research tells us and what coaches, parents and sport organisations can do to help more young people stay involved in sport for life.
Speakers
- Professor Sergio Lara-Bercial and Dr Gary Hodgson shared insights from the ICOACHKIDS global movement, including international research on youth sport participation and drop-out.
- Dr Will Roberts (University of Waikato) shared a play-based coaching framework. It encourages coaches to design environments that support young people’s voice, creativity and right to move.
- Andy Rogers (Sport NZ) reflected on how the themes connect with Balance is Better and the direction of youth sport in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Key takeaways
1. Most young people don’t drop out because they aren’t capable
International research suggests 40–70% of young people leave organised sport between ages 8 and 18. Many still see themselves as “sporty” and some leave even while in performance pathways.
This shows it’s not just about ability. What matters most is the experience young people have in sport.
2. Enjoyment is the strongest driver of ongoing participation
Enjoyment matters more than results. When sport feels pressured, repetitive or adult-led, young people are more likely to switch off. Play-based, child-first coaching keeps sessions fun, varied and meaningful.
3. Drop‑out is caused by a combination of pressures, not one single factor
Most young people leave for a mix of reasons, such as:
- school and study
- pressure to perform
- less enjoyment
- rigid structures and rules
- other interests as they get older.
Play-based sport can reduce some of these pressures by being more flexible and enjoyable.
4. Feeling valued and supported makes a critical difference
Many young people who leave say no one noticed or tried to help them stay. Child-first coaching prioritises relationships, belonging and regular check-ins so adults can respond early and adjust the experience.
5. Play supports confidence, creativity and long‑term development
Play is a way for young people to learn, build confidence and develop skills. Play-based environments help young people:
- learn skills at their own pace
- try ideas and solve problems
- experience success in different ways.
This builds physical literacy and supports a lifelong love of movement.
6. Child‑first coaching aligns sport with young people’s age and stage
Many systems push young people into adult-style sport too early. Play-based, child-first approaches:
- adapt rules, equipment and game formats
- avoid early selection and comparison
- focus on learning and involvement, not outcomes.
This helps young people stay involved in sport as they grow.
7. Competition can support development when used thoughtfully
Competition isn’t the issue, it’s how it’s used. When competition supports learning (for example, smaller teams and modified formats), young people can stay motivated without losing enjoyment.
8. Influencers in youth sport play a powerful role
Parents, coaches and sport organisations help shape the experience for young people. Child-first systems support positive, inclusive experiences that help young people stay involved.
Watch the full webinar
Seminar: Play their way: Approaches to movement and sport for young people – YouTube
