Chch youth sport project

Press, 14 July 1987, Page 9

Chch youth sport project

Sport could build the self-esteem and confidence of young people, and at the same time teach them how to lose, said the Minister of Sport and Recreation, Mr Moore, at the launching of the “Movin’ On” project in Christchurch yesterday. The $1.5 million scheme is hoped to encourage disadvantaged New Zealand youths to spend their spare time involved in sport or outdoor activities, such as tramping and abseiling. Mr Moore, his wife, Yvonne, and the national co-ordinator, Colonel Jim Brown, of Waiouru, officially launched the programme at the Christ-

church City Council Chambers, before councillors, the representatives of recreation groups, business people, and members of the police. Mr and Mrs Moore and Colonel Brown had earlier visited the Sydenham indoor cricket centre, where participants in the Recreation for Youth programme were testing their skills with the bat. Colonel Brown said the Movin’ On scheme was mainly aimed at young people, aged 11 to 18, who felt alienated in society. “We want to show that there are people who care for them,” he said. The Government has

granted $1.5 million for the project and Mrs Moore is responsible for seeking further sponsorship from businesses. The Government has also committed itself to subsidising the scheme dollar for dollar, up to another $1.5 million. Colonel Brown said that the Recreation for Youth programme was on a budget of about $40,000 and “not one cent” came from corporate sponsorship. This is one of the things he hopes to bring to the attention of the business sector. Mr Moore said Christchurch had been chosen as the first area in which to launch the scheme, be-

cause the Recreation for Youth Trust was one of the best community recreation operations in the country. The new scheme comprises three parts, the first of which is the adventure challenge programme, designed to provide challenging outdoor experiences which promote self-esteem. Second is the city challenge, intended to introduce youth to recreation and sports such as softball and football, snorkeling, and martial arts. The final part is a spiritual and physical journey to help bridge the transition from youth to adulthood.