The Sport Buddy Program pairs older Active After School Club participants with Kindergarten children to create a supportive “big buddy” relationship. Sport Buddies are positive role models who play, encourage, guide, and support their buddy as they try new activities.

What Does a Sport Buddy Do?

Sport Buddies are encouraged to:

Help set up and put away equipment and activities.
Participate in activities alongside their buddy.
Explain an activity or demonstrate how something works.
Help their buddy practice a skill using positive and encouraging words.
Show patience and listen carefully.
Ask questions such as, “Do you want help?”
Invite others to play and make sure no one feels left out.
Guide their buddy safely between indoor and outdoor activities.
Join their buddy for healthy activities and snack time.
Cheer for their buddy when they try something new.
Celebrate successes with high-fives, fist bumps and encouragement.
Help their buddy with simple routines such as packing up their lunch kit or backpack.
Recognize and share their buddy’s successes with a coach.
Say goodbye to their buddy by name at the end of the day.