From a young age, children are exposed to sports: the exposure is everywhere, from family members supporting their favourite teams to media coverage in the news or on television shows. It is almost impossible to escape childhood completely void of sports in one form or another. In fact, the number of children who play organized sports (ages 5-18) is 36 million for our neighbours in the United States alone, with sixty percent of those children playing outside of school teams. The chances of these kids going pro in their selected sport are little to none, but many of these youths dream of becoming a professional one day, and many children watch the professionals to learn from them.

Take the Olympics, for example: every two to four years (depending on whether you are discussing winter sports, summer sports, or both) the world gathers to watch these pros strut their stuff and compete against countries from all over the world in order to win the top title: worldwide recognition as the best in their field (and a gold medal). There are even entire museums dedicated specifically to the Olympics the ROX (the Richmond Olympic Experience at the Richmond Oval) in British Columbia. Museums such as this showcase incredible, Olympic themed simulations, historical exhibitions, movies, as well as have real medals on display from past games. Winning a gold medal in the games is the ultimate bragging right, and for many children, competing in the Olympics is their ultimate dream.

For generations, children all over the world with an interest in athletics have dreamed of making it to the Olympics to compete and win honour for their families and country. The first games took place in 776 BC, in Olympia, Greece and then continued through the ages for just over 1000 years until they finally ended in 393 AD. The modern games, in which the world now participates, did not return for 1,503 years until the year 1896. In this year, and henceforth every four years thereafter, the world’s countries have sent their best athletes center stage to compete for the title of the best in their class.

Olympic athletes are role models for young children just starting out in life. Children absorb what they see and when the Olympics take place, as they will this summer, seeing these athletes be the best they can be and give their all for their passion and country, it inspires the younger generation to do the same. Whether that child’s passion is a sport as well, or perhaps, science or math, it doesn’t really matter in the end. What matters is the extreme dedication, energy and hard-work these athletes showcase each Olympic season allowing the youth of the day to dream themselves and feel driven to accomplish their own personal goals.

The Games also bring people together. Through modern technological advancements, the Games can now be watched from virtually anywhere in the world. Seeing their role models accomplish their dreams inspires children and adults alike, no matter the age. With the entire world watching, nations come together in support of their athletes, creating an incredibly positive and uplifting atmosphere. The rising generation has a wonderful opportunity to watch, learn, and be amazed by athletes who have dedicated their lives to their passions, and have come out on top. What better example can a child have of true victory than to watch these events take place?