As a sports illustrator and longtime fan of collegiate athletics, I've always believed that drawing athletes in action is one of the most exciting ways to connect children with sports. When I watched UAAP Season 87 and NCAA Season 100 unfold, I was struck by how the basketball and volleyball players moved with such dynamic energy—perfect inspiration for young artists. In this guide, I'll walk you through five simple steps to help kids create amazing athlete drawings, using examples from these recent seasons that captivated millions of viewers across the Philippines. Trust me, I've taught this method in workshops, and it turns hesitant doodlers into confident young artists.
First, start with basic shapes. I always tell kids to think of athletes as combinations of circles, ovals, and rectangles. Take the volleyball players from UAAP Season 87—when they're spiking or diving for the ball, their bodies form dramatic arcs. By breaking down these poses into simple forms, children can capture movement without getting overwhelmed. I personally prefer using light pencil strokes for this stage, as it allows for easy adjustments. Remember how the NCAA Season 100 basketball finals had those incredible fast breaks? Those moments are gold for drawing practice because they freeze athletes in mid-action, making it easier to see how limbs extend and bodies twist.
Next, focus on posture and stance. This is where observing real athletes pays off. During UAAP Season 87, I noticed how coaches like Tab Baldwin from the Ateneo Blue Eagles emphasized proper form—whether it's a shooter's follow-through or a defender's crouch. Encourage kids to study photos or videos, paying attention to how weight shifts between feet. For instance, a volleyball player about to serve leans forward slightly, while a basketball player dribbling might have one knee bent more than the other. I've found that pointing out these details helps children understand balance, which is crucial for making drawings look realistic rather than stiff.
Then, add details like uniforms and facial expressions. Here's where personal preference comes in—I love exaggerating features to convey emotion, much like how comic artists do. Think about the intense focus on a libero's face during a crucial dig or the triumphant smile of a basketball player sinking a three-pointer. Jerseys from NCAA Season 100, with their bold colors and numbers, are fun to replicate. I suggest using fine-tipped markers or colored pencils for this step, and don't be afraid to incorporate team logos or even fictional designs. After all, creativity is key, and it's what makes each drawing unique.
Movement lines and backgrounds come fourth. To show speed or force, I teach kids to sketch swift, curved lines around the athlete—like the trail of a volleyball after a powerful spike. In UAAP Season 87, the games were filled with such moments, like when a point guard drove to the hoop through heavy defense. Adding a simple court or crowd in the background can elevate the drawing, but I always advise keeping it subtle so the athlete remains the focal point. From my experience, this step is where kids really start to see their artwork come alive, and it's rewarding to watch their excitement.
Finally, refine and color. This is my favorite part because it's all about bringing personality into the piece. Using references from both UAAP and NCAA seasons, kids can choose team colors—say, blue and white for a popular squad—or invent their own palettes. I recall one workshop where a child drew a volleyball player mid-air, inspired by a UAAP match, and used vibrant shades to highlight the uniform. It looked fantastic! Emphasize that mistakes are okay; in fact, I often share how my early sketches were far from perfect, but practice made all the difference.
In wrapping up, drawing athletes isn't just about replicating images—it's about capturing the spirit of sports. The stories from UAAP Season 87 and NCAA Season 100, shaped by both players and coaches, remind us that perseverance and passion are what make these moments unforgettable. By following these five steps, kids can not only improve their art skills but also develop a deeper appreciation for the games. So grab some paper and pencils, and let's start creating—who knows, you might just inspire the next generation of artists and athletes alike.