High School Sports: Why They Matter

High school is a time to make friends, get good grades, participate in activities, and prepare for the future. Unfortunately, due to budget cuts, some schools have chosen not to participate in high school sports, believing that the money would be better spent academically. I understand academics come first, but sacrificing high school sports diminishes each child’s high school experience, their ability to perform at optimal academic levels, and become a well-rounded adult.

The importance of sports in high school can be found in elementary school

During a child’s elementary school years, children generally lose their recess privileges as a result of misbehavior. This consequence can have the opposite effect as desired. Recess is the place where children let their aggression out and release their frustration and anger, allowing them to better cope with aspects of school that they do not enjoy.

High school sports promote bonding and encouragement

What many administrators, teachers, and parents don’t realize is that high school sports offer teens the same outlet. Participation in high school sports is important for developing motor skills, maintaining a healthy exercise program, and provides a release from anger when academic stressors become overwhelming. When young people participate in sports in high school, they release endorphins that help decrease depression and increase energy. Most, if not all, high schools require at least a C average to participate in these sports, giving the child the responsibility. High school sports increase the bond between children and their parents when parents help with skills and come to games to encourage their children.

High school sports increase morale and general support

High school sports offer a release that all students need. High School Sports allows the whole school to come together, whether playing or watching, to cheer on their school. If your child is having a hard time making friends, encourage him to join a high school activity or go to a game and cheer on his school. Boosts school morale when students come together to cheer on their team. While it offers a pleasant distraction from school stressors, teens’ negative perception of school as a prison-like place is replaced by increased school pride. This increased interest in school generally results in greater enjoyment in academics, resulting in better grades and overall test scores.

Adults fondly remember high school sports

When adults remember their time in school, many don’t remember their teachers, classes, or grades, but they do remember the high school sports they participated in or watched. They often look back on these memories fondly and hope that their children will have similar experiences. Encourage your teen’s high school to keep high school sports so each teen can have an overall better high school experience.