Youth sports are about more than winning games.

They teach teamwork, discipline, confidence, leadership, responsibility and perseverance. They also give children safe spaces, positive mentors and a sense of belonging.

For Dr. Kicia Daniel, this issue is personal.

She has served as a team mom and active supporter of Tamarac youth athletics, including the Tamarac Cougars and recreational football, basketball, soccer and baseball programs.

She understands the early practices, late games, transportation challenges and sacrifices families make because she has experienced them alongside other Tamarac parents.

That’s why she has fought for expanded recreational basketball, increased soccer capacity, greater access to basketball courts, additional football and baseball opportunities and expanded travel sports.

She has consistently supported the Tamarac Cougars travel football program and the families and young athletes it serves.

And she continues fighting for something Tamarac families have requested for years:

Track and field opportunities in Tamarac.

Young athletes should not routinely have to travel to another city simply to find appropriate facilities to practice.

Dr. Daniel’s goal is straightforward: If a Tamarac child wants to play, Tamarac should do everything reasonably possible to give that child an opportunity.