Aileen Campbell, SNP MSP for the South of Scotland, has welcomed initiatives to encourage youngsters in the region to take up sport, during a debate in the Scottish Parliament.  The debate was held as Member’s Business on a motion highlighting the particular challenges faced by rural athletes.

As well as highlighting the benefits of the 2011 Lanarkshire Children’s Games, Aileen told the Chamber about the successful football coaching sessions that have been established in Lesmahagow’s Jubilee Hall and the efforts of Biggar Rugby Club to bring young players to the game. 

Speaking during the debate, Aileen Campbell MSP said:

“One chap in Lesmahagow who realised that there was no football coaching in the area, and who had a coaching badge, decided to set up some coaching there… They used a local hall and facilities, and it was a success. He is even trying to encourage girls to play football—buying pink balls and using other innovative ways to encourage youngsters from the area to take up sport. That is the kind of initiative that we should encourage.

“We should encourage parents to take responsibility for encouraging their children to take part in sport. Biggar rugby club is working with parents to encourage folk from the area, including the small villages around Leadhills, to take part in the sport. The club has held youth championships, which have attracted rugby clubs from throughout the South of Scotland. People have shown up to take part and be taught how to play and how to display good sportsmanship. When parents take responsibility, they will travel far afield to enable their children to take part in sports.”

Speaking outside the Scottish Parliament Chamber, Aileen Campbell MSP added:

“Member’s Business gives MSPs a chance to explore issues in a bit more detail and raise subjects that might not otherwise come up in day-to-day Parliamentary discussion.

“I was glad to have this opportunity to highlight some of the excellent work being done in the South of Scotland region to promote sport and encourage more young people to take part.

“Our young athletes need all the support and encouragement they can get, and that was certainly shown by the Scottish Government and all the MSPs who took part in this debate.”