FORT STEWART, Ga. - The Army has joined forces with First Lady Michelle Obama's 'Let's Move' Campaign by creating the Get Fit Be, Strong initiative. With the growing number of children fighting childhood obesity the Army has dedicated special youth sports programs designed to help keep children strong and fit as parents protect and serve.
Larry Laughlin, Fort Stewart Youth Sports and Fitness Director, gives Military Families an inside look at the benefits children and Families can expect from participating in any of the youth sport programs.
Q: Mr. Laughlin, how long have you've been affiliated with Youth Sports?
A: I have worked in Child, Youth and School Services for more than 22 years and in Youth Sports for more than 17 of those years.Q: Sports among our Military Families seems to be stronger today than ever before, can you explain some of the things that make the Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield Sports programs such a success?
A: Our Mission is to support military read iness by reducing the conflict between Soldiers' mission requirements and their parental responsibilities. We strive to make the Fort Stewart Youth Sports Program the best they can be by providing predictable, quality and affordable services that are easily accessible for Army Families on or off the Garrison.
Q: Speaking of parental responsibilities, what are some of the advantages that parents can note when allowing their children to play sports?
A: We provide age-appropriate experiences and promote positive child development outcomes. These outcomes are facilitated through four service areas: Team Sports, Individual Sports, Fitness, Health and Outreach.
Q: Youth sports seems to be a very beneficial part of growth and development, what are some of the health benefits of youth sports?
A: We participate in the Get Fit-Be Strong Program, an Army program that was designed to support the program to fight childhood obesity and type 2 Diabetes for all the children who will come out and participate. This covers many fitness/nutritional programs from the girl's walk club to circuit training
Q: Is there anything you'd like to say to parents or youth who are considering or have played sports?
A: Participating in organized sports programs is a truly special time in a young person's life. They are building friendships, leadership skills and teamwork as they are having fun. This is a time that they will always remember and we want to make a great memory for them.
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