Nguyen Luong Hai, originally from Hai Duong (now part of Hai Phong), joined the Hai Duong U11 team in 3/2022. Despite his passion for soccer, Hai initially hesitated to play. "He worried about making mistakes and letting the team down," said coach Nguyen Van Hai of the U11 Hai Duong team.

With encouragement and guidance from his coach, combined with his own determination, Luong Hai began to listen attentively and train diligently, gradually improving his skills and confidence. Over time, he transformed from a hesitant boy into a key striker and trusted team captain for multiple seasons, fostering a strong sense of teamwork.

Luong Hai (dribbling) during a match at the Nestle Milo National U11 Football Tournament in 2024. Photo: NVCC

Luong Hai (dribbling) during a match at the Nestle Milo National U11 Football Tournament in 2024. Photo: NVCC

Like Hai, 12-year-old Tra My also honed her resilience through school basketball with Nestle Milo. Coach Ta Khac Hoan of the Hanoi student basketball team recalled My's initial shyness when she first joined the Hanoi team from her local team. Her family and coach provided constant support and encouragement, helping her overcome this. As a result, My actively interacted with and learned from older teammates, confidently tackling advanced drills to keep pace with the team. My's teamwork and coordination contributed to the team's victory in the 2025 National U16 5x5 Basketball Championship.

The entire team, not just My, matured significantly after that milestone, always supporting each other, win or lose. "That moment reinforced my belief that sports can teach children valuable life lessons," said coach Hoan.

According to coach Hoan, many young children lack mental toughness, easily discouraged when facing stronger opponents. However, through training, they develop resilience and confidence.

Beyond achievements, Tra My (holding the flag) learned teamwork and other valuable lessons from sports. Photo: NVCC

Beyond achievements, Tra My (holding the flag) learned teamwork and other valuable lessons from sports. Photo: NVCC

Beyond academic grades, parents increasingly recognize the importance of physical fitness, willpower, teamwork, and discipline for their children. When investing in their children's soft skills development, many parents view school sports as a way to build a strong foundation early on. "The times my son stumbled and got back up, the disappointment of being on the bench, and the joy of being called onto the field… these are real-life lessons no textbook can offer," shared Nguyen Luong Hinh, Hai's father.

Many education experts agree that school sports act as a catalyst for children to develop physically and mentally, fostering personal growth, teamwork, and a spirit of unity and mutual support. These skills become the foundation for their future success.

This explains the widespread popularity of school sports programs across the country, attracting numerous students and parents. For example, the Nestle Milo National U11 Football Tournament is now in its 28th season, and the Nestle Milo Primary School Basketball Tournament has been running for 18 years. Both tournaments attract thousands of children annually, showcasing their talent and nurturing their passion for sports.

As one of the founders of the National Children's Football Tournament, Nguyen Phan Khue, editor-in-chief of Thieu Nien Tien Phong & Nhi Dong newspaper, believes that sports contribute to a child's overall development. These tournaments have cultivated numerous "golden generations" for Vietnamese sports. "Talented national team players like Van Hau, Quang Hai, and Duy Manh were all discovered through participating in national youth and children's football tournaments organized by the newspaper," he said.

Decades ago, when the focus was primarily on adult professional sports, organizing events for children was considered a long-term gamble. "Back then, supporting youth soccer was a disadvantage. But we believed that if Vietnam wanted a strong national team, we had to start with the youth," Khue recalled.

Nguyen Phan Khue speaking at the press conference announcing the 2025 season in Hanoi on 9/4. Photo: NVCC

Nguyen Phan Khue speaking at the press conference announcing the 2025 season in Hanoi on 9/4. Photo: NVCC

At the age of 10 or 11, not many children fully grasp the concept of "strategy." Sometimes, their most vivid memories are the tears and comforting hugs from their coaches after setbacks, or the cartons of milk that replenished their energy after each match. Some renowned players recount that their fondest childhood memories involve lining up with their teammates for Milo after games.

The sustainable development of school sports requires collaboration: schools nurture discipline and skills; families provide emotional support; coaches mentor and inspire; and businesses invest in the future generation. In this collaborative effort, long-term partners like Nestle Milo have played a vital role in building a strong foundation for school sports. Through the "Nang Dong Viet Nam" program and other school initiatives, young Vietnamese are increasingly exposed to sports early on, developing their physical and mental strength for a brighter future.

Kim Anh