Background

Sports education has numerous proven benefits in the holistic development of children and adolescents. The benefits of sports can be broadly categorized into physical health benefits, mental health benefits, and skill development. The physical benefits of sports are obvious as they provide children with stimulation which aids in physical fitness and overall health. Sports is also considered a stress reliever which can reduce anxiety and improve mood. Additionally, sports can foster a sense of belonging, along with helping children learn to be more disciplined and resilient. Other important life skills such as leadership, teamwork, and perseverance can also improve by participating in team and individual sports. Lastly, sports provides a great platform for children to learn how to communicate, work collaboratively, demonstrate dedication, and resolve conflicts in a logical manner. 

While the importance of sports education cannot be overstated, many sections of society are unable to access holistic sports education or opportunities. Children from less privileged communities may not be able to afford memberships to sports complexes, or even live near one. Additionally, many families place greater emphasis on academics, often leaving sports to the sidelines. These limitations prevent many young students and potentially budding athletes in India from engaging in sports activities which can bolster their personal and academic life. The Indian Open was created to address these issues, encourage greater participation in sporting endeavors, and provide open access opportunities for children interested in sports. We also wish to encourage more children to engage in sports by highlighting its benefits to students and parents across the country.