The Platou Community Center proudly participated in this year’s Harris County Street Olympics, bringing together a team of 12 young athletes under the enthusiastic leadership of Dajai Tennard.
Held annually at the NRG Center, the Harris County Street Olympics is a celebrated event that transforms traditional “street games” into Olympic-style competitions, fostering community spirit and athletic excellence among Houston’s youth.
Tennard, a dedicated community leader, emphasized the importance of this event for the participants. She believes that by attending the Harris County Street Olympics, youth learn vital life skills such as teamwork, discipline, respect and resilience. These qualities help them succeed in sports and in their everyday lives.
“Working with kids is profoundly rewarding because it allows me to play a role in their development and growth, helping them navigate challenges and discover their potential,” said Tennard. “Seeing their enthusiasm, resilience, and progress firsthand is incredibly fulfilling. It’s a privilege to guide and support them, knowing that the skills and values we instill can have a lasting impact on their lives. The joy of building connections and witnessing their achievements fuels my passion and commitment to nurturing their growth and helping them thrive.”
The Harris County Street Olympics includes a wide range of activities, from basketball and Hula Hoop contests to spelling bees, jump rope, and jacks. Over the years, it has expanded to incorporate mind and body challenges like chess, track, aquatics and cycling, making it an enriching experience for all participants.
Last year, Madison Stewart, a regular attendee of the Platou Community Center, won 2nd place in the jump rope contest, highlighting the center’s strong presence in the competition. This year, the team continued to showcase their talents, with teen volunteer Amaya Cobbs winning the Football Accuracy Throw contest. Cobbs, who will be starting her freshman year at Fort Bend Marshall High School this fall, demonstrated exceptional skill and precision in the event.
The benefits of participating in such competitions are manifold.
1. Teamwork and Cooperation: Kids learn the importance of working together to achieve common goals, fostering collaboration and effective communication.
2. Discipline and Hard Work: Through training and practice, participants understand the value of dedication, perseverance, and a consistent work ethic.
3. Respect and Sportsmanship: The event teaches respect for coaches, opponents, and officials, encouraging good sportsmanship and gracious handling of wins and losses.4. Resilience and Handling Failure: Children learn to manage setbacks and bounce back from failures, building resilience and coping skills.
Registration opens every April 1 for parents interested in enrolling their children in Houston Parks programs. The summer programs, which include a wide range of activities and provide lunch, are available for $30 per week, with free admission for children who receive Medicaid or food stamps. More information can be found at www.Houstonparks.org or by visiting local parks for assistance.
“If a parent is unemployed or income-based and has documentation that they meet those requirements, they can also be waived the $30 per week,” said Tennard. “Summer enrichment programs differ in size. At Platou Community Center, we have a maximum number of 25 spots, and they do tend to fill up quickly, so if you would like for your kids to be involved next summer, please don’t wait.”
