“She’s Just Not Sporty” — Why Labels Hurt
“She’s just not sporty.”
It’s a phrase most of us have heard at some point — maybe even said ourselves.
But what does “sporty” really mean? And more importantly… what happens when a child gets labelled as “not sporty”?
The truth is, these labels can close doors before a child has even had the chance to step onto the field, into the hall, or onto the mat. At Roarsome Sport, I believe every child deserves the chance to move, play, and thrive — whether or not they fit the so-called “sporty” mould.
Busting the Myth: If you’re “Not Sporty” you can’t take part.
Being “sporty” isn’t a personality trait. It’s not something a child is born with or without.
It’s often code for:
- Confident in traditional sports like football or athletics
- Physically fast or strong compared to peers
- Naturally competitive
But children who don’t fit this description aren’t “non-sporty” — they simply need different ways to access and enjoy movement.
Thriving in sport isn’t about medals or being the best. It’s about discovering the joy of moving your body and realising “I can do this”.
What Thriving Looks Like
Here’s what success looks like at Roarsome Sport:
🌟 A shy child smiling while joining in for the first time
🌟 A little one catching a ball after weeks of trying
🌟 A child who usually struggles with balance standing tall in a yoga pose
🌟 A SEND child lighting up as they recognise a familiar game
🌟 The giggles that come when children play together without pressure
These moments might look small to the outside world — but they’re huge for the child experiencing them.
Why Environments Matter
Children thrive when the environment is:
✨ Pressure-free — no one’s keeping score, and mistakes are part of learning
✨ Fun-first — games, imagination, and play come before competition
✨ Adaptable — activities shift to suit the group, not the other way around
✨ Supportive — encouragement and belonging matter more than ability
When movement feels safe and enjoyable, confidence grows. And with confidence comes the willingness to try, explore, and develop new skills.
The SEND Difference: Inclusion Changes Everything
For SEND children, the “not sporty” label can feel even heavier.
Traditional settings may feel overwhelming, rushed, or inflexible. That’s why we adapt — slowing down, changing the pace, and celebrating every child’s wins on their own terms.
Sometimes progress means listening for a few extra minutes.
Sometimes it’s joining in with a group game for the very first time.
Sometimes it’s simply smiling in a new space with new people.
Inclusion isn’t extra — it’s at the heart of what we do. Because when a child feels they belong, movement becomes joyful instead of stressful.
Ready to Change the Story?
At Roarsome Sport, there are no “sporty” or “non-sporty” children. Just children — all capable of thriving when given the right space to play, grow, and belong.
👉 Want your child to experience movement this way? Check out our sessions here