Increased emphasis on sport for children

Youth sports development has come to the fore thanks to new initiatives from Dubai Sports City (DSC) and Dubai Golf.

DSC has announced a partnership with SOCATOTS, the world's first soccer specific physical play programme for children aged six months to five years, which has been developed by English football coach Simon Clifford.

SOCATOTS aims to improve balance and co-ordination, further develop cognitive skills, enhance every muscle and bone development, increase self confidence, and demonstrate the benefits of keeping fit through a number of learning exercises.

The approach is underpinned by research showing that children who are physically active from a young age are more likely to have better concentration skills in the classroom.

DSC assistant academies manager Ekta Hutton said: "SOCATOTS is more than just a football programme. It is an innovative concept where children can learn and play through sport and at the same time strongly encourage parental involvement, resulting in stronger bonds between parents and their children.

"We are confident that the inaugural SOCATOTS programme, which we will launch in early 2009, will be a success with the local community and provide sound motor skills development for every child," added Hutton

Meanwhile, Dubai Golf has launched Tiny Tigers at the Dubai Creek Golf Academy and a Kindergarten programme at Emirates Golf Club, which are both set to start this month.

Tiny Tigers is an eight-week programme for four to seven year olds offering weekly group lessons, use of the academy facilities and equipment usage.

Dubai Golf also offers the world-wide Young Masters Golf coaching programme.

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