Most athletes (especially multi-sport athletes) are less likely to be set behind in school compared to single-sport athletes.
Schools should be required to have more, diverse options of sports that students can choose from.
Whether it’s cheer, volleyball or even baseball, students usually take their sport very seriously. While it is mostly seen in multi-sport athletes, sports teach students and children self-control, problem solving skills and even mental resilience. From the article, “The Benefits of Being a Multi-Sport Athlete for Kids,” it states, “‘Playing different sports makes for a more well-rounded athlete and also reduces risk of psychological stress, burn-out and overuse injuries,’ says University Hospitals orthopedic surgeon Jacob Calcei, MD. Dr. Calcei says specializing in one sport doesn’t necessarily enhance performance in that sport, or lead to athletic scholarships. ‘A lot of the best athletes in pro sports and at the college level played multiple sports in high school. Diversifying makes you a better, more well-rounded athlete, and makes you better at your primary sport.’” This explains that while just one sport is still impressive, most people that are involved in multiple sports statistically make it farther than the average person. Athletes learn different skills from different coaches, games, practices and drills. With a student playing more than one sport, it takes the education a step farther.
Some like to put all their effort into one sport or activity, and this is completely fine as well. Regardless of how many sports you play, the bottom line is that sports still teach discipline, trust and teamwork.
There’s an issue, though, some schools only offer common sports, as in basketball and football. Sometimes these teams aren’t taken seriously by the school and commonly the coaches. If schools would take their athletic departments more seriously, it would positively impact parents, families and most importantly the players/students.
In summary, schools should make more sports options for students available. Sports and other extracurricular activities can make huge impacts on students, whether it’s just behavior or even academics.
