Sports Day
Originally published on the now defunct Suffolk Sports Forum – July 14, 2010
It’s that time of year again: school sports day. And once more, the nation is split. Should it be competitive or non-competitive? Frankly, the debate is nonsense. Who ever thought it was a good idea to remove competition from sports day? It’s political correctness run wild. We’re told that government advisors and well-meaning headteachers believe traditional races are too stressful or humiliating for some children.
What’s the Alternative?
So what do they do instead? Gather in circles holding hands? Jump over sticks and crawl under chairs? That’s not just patronising—it’s impractical. What if a larger child gets stuck under a chair? Should lounging on the couch with a plate of pizza now qualify as inclusive physical activity? Of course not. It’s absurd. And before anyone accuses me of being unsympathetic, I’ll point out—I was that fat kid. My one athletic strength? The classic playground pile-on known as bundle. Not exactly an Olympic sport.
I remember sports day at school all too well. Whether it was the 100-metre dash or the egg-and-spoon race, I usually finished last. One year, I even gave up halfway through and walked across the finish line. The crowd laughed. I wasn’t traumatised. I got on with it. Children are more resilient than we give them credit for. Failing, finishing last, feeling awkward—these are all part of life. We can’t wrap kids in bubble wrap and expect them to thrive.
Let Them Compete – Medals for all?
For many children, sport is their best chance to shine. Not everyone connects with Shakespeare, algebra, or dissecting frogs in biology. But some kids live for football, athletics, or relay races. They deserve their moment of recognition. Society rightly celebrates musical prodigies and artistic talent—but too often, we frown on athletic excellence. Why? Sport is just as valid a form of self-expression and achievement. Some schools now give out medals to every participant. That’s not encouragement—it’s meaningless. Only 1st, 2nd, and 3rd deserve podium places. And even 2nd is just the first loser. Teamwork matters, yes—but true teamwork only exists when there’s something at stake. When there’s a goal, a finish line, a winner. That’s where the life lessons happen.
Time to Get Real
Sports are not designed to be universally inclusive. They’re designed to challenge, to test, and yes—to exclude. Not everyone wins. That’s the point. Life is competitive, and children need to learn how to handle both success and failure. Bring back real sports days. Competitive ones. Where results matter, medals are earned, and resilience is taught the hard way.