Community building is an important aspect (and benefit) to sport participation. Suzy Sanchez is well-known in the sport of Weightlifting for her achievements as an athlete, coach, USAW HQ employee, and advocate for DEI in sports. In this episode, we tackle the importance of sport in youth development. The experience of competing as an international athlete helps you gain a unique perspective, and it can inform life decisions. For Suzy, this sparked her passion for advocating for athletes at all levels, especially collegiate athletes. We talk about community building and relationships that make the sport of Weighlifting fun and rewarding. We discuss the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in sports. While we traditionally think of the physical gains that we achieve through strength sports, this episode digs into the social and emotional role that strength sports play in youth development and across the lifespan.
THE GRITTY DETAILS
Participating in sports can be enriching beyond the identity we develop with our education and job. The secret to a long, fulfilling life is fitness AND social relationships. Building community and fostering relationships through sport can provide you with a more enriching life.
Local Weightlifting State Organizations (WSOs) can partner with USAW to support everyday athletes and create access to the sport.
Sport saves lives and not having access has a domino effect on marginalized groups of people. Minority populations are underserved and underrepresented in the sport. There are social, financial, and environmental barriers to participation for minority communities.
Weightlifting is not always a safe space for every person. We have to acknowledge that trauma, discrimination, and racism impact people within our communities. Working toward equity and justice for marginalized communities improves sport and competition for everyone.
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