Growing up in sport, it is a pretty cool thing to be a part of.

"Growing up in sport, it is a pretty cool thing to be a part of." These words spoken by Emma McKeon reflect the deep significance of sport in shaping one's character and experience. McKeon, a world-class swimmer, speaks not only of the physical benefits of sport but of the life lessons and sense of community it provides. Her statement captures the essence of the sporting journey, one that brings together discipline, competition, and the shared pursuit of excellence. To grow up in the world of sport is not merely to develop physical skill, but to become part of something larger than oneself, to learn from others, and to grow both as an athlete and as a person.

The ancient world, too, understood the power of sport in shaping the individual and society. The Greek Olympics, one of the most revered traditions of ancient times, were not only a celebration of athleticism but also a demonstration of the values of discipline, courage, and honor. Young Greek men trained for years, not just to win, but to learn the virtues that sport teaches—perseverance, self-control, and humility. These values were seen as essential not only for the individual athlete but for the strength of the society as a whole. The ancient Greek philosopher Plato believed that physical training in the gymnasium was as important as intellectual training in the academy, for a balanced life required both mental and physical development. In this context, McKeon’s words resonate deeply: to grow up in sport is to be part of a tradition that teaches far more than victory or defeat.

Similarly, consider the life of Mahatma Gandhi, who, although not known as an athlete, placed great emphasis on the importance of physical activity in the development of character. Gandhi's commitment to simple living and self-discipline included regular physical exercises, which he believed were crucial for fostering strength of character and resilience. He understood that, just as the body must be trained and nurtured, so too must the mind. For Gandhi, the pursuit of inner peace and self-reliance was intertwined with the physical discipline of the body. This connection between mind, body, and spirit echoes McKeon’s sentiment—sport is not just a matter of physical exertion, but a path to personal growth and self-discovery.

In a more modern example, the story of Serena Williams, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, illustrates the profound impact sport can have on a person’s life. Williams, who grew up in Compton, California, found in tennis not just a career but a means of personal empowerment. She faced incredible adversity, including racial prejudice and economic hardship, but through her commitment to sport, she transformed herself into a global icon. Williams has often spoken about how tennis shaped her sense of self-worth, her discipline, and her resilience. Her story, like McKeon’s, demonstrates how sport provides a framework for building confidence, facing adversity, and achieving greatness.

McKeon’s reflection also speaks to the sense of community and belonging that sports offer. Whether in ancient Greece or the modern world, sport brings people together in a way few other activities can. Teams, families, and nations unite around shared goals, forming bonds that transcend language, culture, and background. As McKeon notes, it is a “cool thing” to be a part of this—a feeling of belonging that strengthens the individual and the collective. The camaraderie built through sport has always been a source of inspiration, from the Roman gladiators fighting side by side in the arena to the Olympic athletes of today who represent their countries with pride. It is in this collective pursuit of excellence that sport becomes not just an individual journey but a shared mission.

The lesson McKeon imparts is clear: sport is not just about winning, but about growing. It is a path to develop discipline, teamwork, and self-awareness, while also offering a sense of community and belonging. Just as the ancient Greeks understood the importance of training both the mind and the body, so too should we embrace the holistic nature of sport in our own lives. Whether we are athletes or simply participants in the shared human experience, sport teaches us lessons that extend far beyond the field, the court, or the pool.

In practical terms, this means that we must value effort over outcome, growth over success, and the joy of the journey over the need for validation. Whether we are parents encouraging our children to pursue physical activity, or individuals choosing to embrace a more active lifestyle, we must remember that the benefits of sport are not confined to the athletic realm but extend to all areas of life. Let us encourage discipline, resilience, and community, and allow sport to serve as a tool for personal transformation and connection.

Finally, let us reflect on the power of play and physical exertion in our own lives. Just as Emma McKeon celebrates the impact of growing up in sport, so too must we embrace the opportunity to engage in activities that challenge us, connect us, and help us grow. Whether it’s swimming, running, tennis, or simply walking outdoors, let us see sport as a tool for living a fuller, more meaningful life, where every step taken brings us closer to the ideals of discipline, joy, and personal growth. Through sport, we find not just strength, but a path to becoming the best version of ourselves.