Hmong sports are known for their competitive spirit and enthusiasm. Sports serve as a platform for Hmong communities to come together, build relationships, and celebrate their cultural heritage. However, over the years, the focus on winning at all costs in these sports has led to a decrease in interest in the Hmong community. This article will discuss how Hmong sports have become more about competition over participation, leading to the loss of interest among the Hmong youth.
Hmong sports became popular in the United States when a large number of Hmong refugees settled in the country after the Vietnam War. The Hmong people have a long history of playing sports, with traditional games like top-spinning. However, with the introduction of western sports like basketball, volleyball, and soccer, Hmong sports have become more organized, and competition has become fierce.
Competition over Participation:
While competition can be healthy and promotes growth, the focus on winning has led to a decrease in participation in Hmong sports. Many young Hmong athletes are pressured to focus solely on winning, putting all their time and energy into their sport, while neglecting other aspects of their lives.
Furthermore, the emphasis on winning also discourages beginners and recreational players from participating in Hmong sports. Newcomers are intimidated by the highly competitive nature of the sports, and they often feel like they do not belong. This has led to a decrease in the number of Hmong athletes as well as the number of Hmong sports events and tournaments.
The Importance of Fun:
Sports are meant to be enjoyed and played for fun. In the case of Hmong sports, they are also meant to celebrate culture and bring the community together. However, with the focus on winning, the joy of playing has been lost, and sports have become more of a job than a hobby. This has led to a decline in the overall morale of the Hmong sports community, with many feeling burnt out and stressed.
Here is a quick facts:
- 65% of kids play so they can be around their friends
- 71% don’t care about the score/would play anyways if the score wasn’t kept
- 42% wish parents wouldn’t be permitted to watch
- 93% would rather play on a losing team than ride the bench on a winning team
- 41% have been lectured/yelled at by a coach for ‘not being competitive enough’
- 35% intend to quit playing sports as soon as they can
Competing in sports should be an opportunity for personal growth and development, allowing athletes to learn valuable life skills such as teamwork and sportsmanship. It is necessary to strike a balance between competition and participation, allowing athletes to enjoy the game while competing to the best of their ability.
Conclusion:
Hmong sports are an essential aspect of the Hmong community and culture, but the focus on winning has led to a decline in interest and participation. It is vital to prioritize fun and participation over winning, teaching young athletes that competition is healthy but that it should not come at the expense of their well-being. Organizers should take steps to promote recreational play and welcome newcomers, creating a more inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy playing Hmong sports. By focusing on fun and participation, Hmong sports can continue to thrive and bring people together.