BBBSLI’s Sports Buddies program gives Littles and their Bigs the chance to engage in sports and physical activities while receiving crucial mentorship support. It operates under the “Bigs in Blue” umbrella, ensuring children facing adversity—especially boys in high‑need—can be matched quickly with positive role models through athletics Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.
Program Intricacies
Thoughtful Matching Process
Each Little is paired with a Big whose interests, schedule, and background align, whether it’s a shared love of basketball, soccer, or tennis Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island. BBBSLI staff conduct interviews, background checks, and training to ensure safe, lasting matches Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.
Structured Athletic Sessions
Big–Little pairs meet regularly—often weekly—at local parks, school gyms, or community centers Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island. Sessions blend skill‑building drills with open play, teamwork exercises, and mini‑tournaments, all designed to be fun while teaching goal‑setting and resilience MENTOR.
Ongoing Support & Resources
BBBSLI provides curriculum guides, equipment stipends, and coach‑led workshops so Bigs feel confident leading activities Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island. Match Support Specialists check in regularly to offer coaching tips, troubleshoot challenges, and celebrate successes Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.
Benefits for Littles
Physical Health & Well‑Being
Regular sport participation improves cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, and coordination Home. In an era of rising youth sedentary behavior, these activities offer a fun pathway to healthy habits pce.sandiego.edu.
Life Skills & Personal Growth
Through wins and losses on the field, Littles learn discipline, teamwork, and perseverance Rhodes Lab. One‑on‑one sports mentoring also fosters self‑efficacy and goal‑setting skills that carry over into school and home Evidence-Based Mentoring.
Social & Emotional Resilience
The supportive Big–Little relationship builds trust, boosts self‑esteem, and reduces feelings of isolation Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island. Mentored youth are significantly less likely to engage in risky behaviors and more likely to feel connected to their community Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.
Cultural Connection on Long Island
Long Island’s identity is intertwined with community sports—from high‑school lacrosse rivalries to weekend beach volleyball . Sports Buddies taps into this culture, offering Littles firsthand experiences at local fields, games, and events that reinforce pride in their hometown Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island. Shared local traditions—like cheering on the Yankees or playing pick‑up basketball in the park—become powerful backdrops for mentorship.
The Need for Youngsters
By age 13, 70% of kids drop out of organized sports without supportive coaching Home. At the same time, youth face growing mental‑health challenges; sports mentorship offers stress relief, social support, and a sense of belonging National Mentoring Resource Center. For many Littles, Sports Buddies is the gateway to healthy routines and positive adult relationships they might otherwise miss.
How to Get Involved
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Attend a BBBSLI Info Session to learn program details and meet staff Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.
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Complete the Application & Training, including background screening and a Sports Buddies workshop Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.
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Start Mentoring, committing to regular athletic meet‑ups that fit your schedule—and experience the joy of helping a child thrive.
