Recess coaches---what are they?

I recently read a article on Philly.com about a school in North Philadelphia who hired a recess coach to teach the students how to play during recess. Apparently, children these days are too attracted to their game consoles inside the house and don't care for the outdoors anymore. They want these recess coaches to help children play and learn. Also, they're aiming to get them back in shape (57% of the children were either obese or overweight).

I was completely shocked about how children nowadays need to be taught how to play during recess! When I was younger, we were so happy when it was time for recess. We would go outside and let our imaginations run wild! We would play tag, freeze tag, Simon says, Leprechaun, and whatever other game we could think of that day. Even though we weren't given materials (basketball, soccer ball, etc) to enhance our recess experience, we were completely fine. But after reading this article, I think it's insane how kids these days don't know how to play! The recess coach actually teaches them how to play dodgeball and the rules that follow it. Back in my elementary days, we were taught how to play dodgeball in gym class----so this article really makes me wonder. Don't these kids have a gym class where they exercise and learn how to play various sports?

But I'm glad that the schools in Philadelphia are starting to try to get their students back into playing outside and away from always staying inside with their virtual life.

Please check out this article here.