Chris Judd’s favourite community sport events

When you’re a professional athlete, you can lose sight of what sport really means at the grassroots level. You’re so driven to succeed, to make that match-winning kick, that you become completely obsessed with winning. Everything else takes a back seat.

That’s why I love sport most when it’s played the way it was meant to be played – in the community. For the vast majority of people who play their sport at a recreational level, it’s not about the scoreboard. It’s about the simple pleasures in life. It’s about getting fit, boosting your endorphins and sharing an activity you enjoy with other people who feel the same way.

One of the best things about non-professional sport is how it can bring a community together for a cause. I’ve been lucky enough to witness the impact of sport on a social group through my work with the Mirabel Foundation. They’re a charity for kids who have been orphaned or whose parents can’t look after them anymore.

As part of Mirabel’s after-school care program, the kids play indoor soccer or have a kick of the footy. During school holidays, the charity takes them and their carers away to the snow or other camp locations. The main purpose of Mirabel’s sporting activities is to raise the spirits of the kids, while also offering respite to carers.

For kids who’ve gone through some tragic things at no fault of their own, sport is a fun way to stay fit and healthy. They can connect with other kids who’ve had similar experiences, which are sadly a lot more common than most people realise. More than anything else, they get a support network to help them through tough times – because a problem always feels much bigger if you think it’s yours to deal with by yourself.

There are many community sport events around the country that follow the same philosophy. Even just being a fan or volunteer at these events can be extremely rewarding. And if you choose to take part in something like a fun run, you can not only lend a helping hand to the people who need it most, but you’ll also be accountable to the people who’ve raised funds to watch you participate. It could be that last little kick over the edge to get you focused and ready to achieve your fitness goals.

Here are just some of the best community sport events and programs you can get involved in around Australia.

Starting out in the early 1990s in Melbourne, the Reclink Community Cup is a footy match between local personalities (mainly musicians and radio hosts) created to raise money for the mental health, wellbeing, education and employment of disadvantaged Australians. Last year, Community Cup games were held in Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Hobart and Canberra. You can do your part by volunteering at the next match in your city, or by donating to Reclink directly.

With over 450 sessions held around Victoria each year, Helping Hoops uses basketball to teach underprivileged children and young people the sporting and social skills they need to thrive. Not only is Helping Hoops always looking for volunteer assistant coaches, you can host a charity challenge for your company. Shoot some hoops and boost your fitness while team-building for a cause.

Running remains one of the most popular fitness activities for Australians. And with marathons and running festivals taking place on a regular basis, it couldn’t be easier to pound the pavement. Two of my favourite fun runs are the Sydney Running Festival, held every September along a great stretch of the harbour, and the Perth Marathon & Relay, which includes a team component to help you conquer the course alongside your mates.

Marathon, half-marathon and fun run events are now held in all capital cities, making it easy to raise funds for the charity of your choice. Don’t be afraid to push yourself to the limit – there’s nothing like the motivation of a great cause to help you go that extra kilometre.

Former Australian Rules footballer Chris Judd is familiar with how to get your heart rate up and push yourself physically. Twice winner of the prestigious Brownlow Medal, Chris is an honoured sportsman and father to four children, Oscar, Billie, Tom and Darcy. The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances.