I was a competitive rower in East Germany for many years. After my career, I became a rowing coach until the wall came down. It was a very exciting time, with tough practises and competitions. I learned a lot, was very fit, and had many friends – most importantly, I had fun! I learned to be on time, to motivate others, to work hard and to collaborate as a team.
Squamish Waldorf School has no gym, but we are fortunate to have many wonderful opportunities for physical activity at our doorstep. In addition to our back forest and the Stawamus River virtually across the street, the school organizes activities such as swimming, skiing, skating, hiking, and camping. This does not replace a weekly or even more frequent activity, but it is very important for our children who are still in the process of growing physically and mentally. If we want to help our children become strong and healthy individuals, teachers and parents must work together to ensure they participate in the school’s planned activities.
Sport provides much more than a healthy body. It fosters a healthy mind, bonds students together, builds teamwork and goodwill — and it is fun! If we allow our students to opt out of these activities, we open the door for quitting in the future. Let’s work together to ensure the children benefit as much as possible from our planned activities.
A message from a passionate Waldorf teacher who still reaps the rewards from things he learned during his time in sport,
Fritz Bindseil
Grade 2/3 teacher