Why Are Sports Important in High School?

Sports in high school foster many essential skills that teens will use not just while they’re students, but into adulthood. Sports give children and teens an excuse to rise up from their sedentary lifestyles. Aside from shedding off those extra pounds, team sports give children a lot of emotional, social, and physical benefits. In addition, high school sports help students in the development of their motor skills and help teach the importance of maintaining an effective exercise program.

Children need an outlet for releasing stress, anger, and other emotions, especially when the pressure from the academics becomes too overwhelming.

When students participate in sports, they release chemicals called endorphins which help decrease symptoms of depression while increasing their energy. Sports provide them the venue to exercise and release any bottled up emotions.

Sports and Academics

Most academic institutions will require at least a C average for students to qualify for sports programs. This makes the student accountable for his performance in school.  High school sports promote school spirit and solidarity.

Sports provide a healthy distraction from the stressful parts of school. A student’s distorted perceptions about school can be replaced with school pride and confidence. With a more positive outlook in school, students will generally enjoy studying more, resulting in better grades. This makes students more well-rounded and better candidates for college.

Teamwork and Mentors

Sports teach students how to work with a team. When playing team sports, students think less of themselves and think more of the group as one team. They learn to support each other and to appreciate every member’s contribution. Understanding what it means to be a team player can greatly benefit the students not just in school but in the real world. Students learn well from their positive mentors. A thoughtful, appreciative, and supportive coach will have a great influence on the students.

The Three P's

Students learn the 3 P’s from sports. All team sports require three very important P’s – Practice, Patience, and Persistence. These are very important skills that every individual must have in the real world. So whether it’s getting up at 6:00 am for practice, waiting on the bench, or repeatedly doing the same set of drills, the three P’s are important game and life lessons.