It should come as no surprise that we here at Cancer Kickers are passionate about the impact sports can have on kids with cancer—our teammates! For us, sports and soccer imagery aren’t just about a cool look (we enjoy that, too) but about a sense of belonging and empowerment that comes from being part of something. Part of a team that has your back.
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, their world changes overnight. Hospital visits replace playgrounds. Treatments interrupt school, sleepovers, and soccer games. But even in the most challenging moments, something as simple as play, especially through sports, can bring light, laughter, and healing.
Whether it’s kicking a ball, stretching in bed, or playing sports, regular movement can help:
It’s not about running marathons—it’s about moving in ways that feel good and possible. The smallest dose of physical activity can make a big difference. Cancer can make people feel like their body has betrayed them, and going out and moving again can help kids reconnect with their bodies, showing them that they are capable!
Treatment is tough. Sports offer a much-needed mental break. They bring:
Even a few minutes of light play can help a child smile, refocus, and keep going. This is especially true of team or group sports, whether soccer or dance class. If you’ve ever gone on a walk to “clear your head,” you know what we mean!
Sports remind kids that they are more than their diagnosis when cancer can feel like their identity.
Maintaining friendships and social connections can be difficult when cancer disrupts school attendance or social activities. Sports help kids continue those relationships, even if they can’t participate fully.
Whether learning to dribble again or walking a few extra steps, each milestone is a victory. Ultimately, sports teach perseverance and determination, and isn’t that something anyone going through a cancer battle could use more of?
Ultimately, sports build confidence and remind kids: “I can do hard things.”
For survivors, getting back into sports can be a significant part of reclaiming life after treatment. It helps rebuild strength and coordination, which can be impacted by treatment. Physical fitness is an excellent indicator for recovery during treatment, but post-recovery exercise is just as valuable.
But, perhaps more importantly, it helps rebuild identity—as a player, a teammate, a kid full of potential.
Every child is different. How cancer and treatment affect their daily lives can vary widely based on their diagnosis and physiology. Because of this, we can’t say that sports are right for every kid with cancer. Though vigorous exercise is shown to lead to better long-term health outcomes, we also need to be safe and smart in our approach.
Talk to your child’s doctors and care team about what physical activity levels are advisable for their circumstances. Discuss specific risks, activities to avoid, and where to find a happy medium.
Just as marathon runners don’t wake up one morning and decide to run 26.2 miles out of the blue, kids with cancer shouldn’t—and can’t—go all out from the jump. Usually, low-intensity exercise in small doses is the recommended starting point.
What does your child love to do? Their interests, abilities, and needs are utterly unique! Ensure they have room to explore new sports and exercises that they genuinely enjoy.
Kids aren’t always the best at communicating how they feel. Stress that they should listen to their bodies and take breaks when needed. Fatigue and pain aren’t things to “push through” for kids with cancer!
Beyond ensuring your chosen sport is appropriate for their condition, prioritize safety. Wear appropriate helmets and safety gear, stay hydrated, and avoid situations with high risk of injury.