The Influence Of High School Sports

Whether you want to admit it or not there is a human hierarchy that is in full effect. At the top of the human food chain you have savvy businessmen and world leaders. There is one more spot at the top and that goes to the athletes who have competed and entertained us throughout the years. Every kid wants to be like them. That aspiration to be like their heroes cannot compare to anything else. Whenever they are on the field, court or the rink they want to replicate what they see on tv from these athletes. Some people don’t see it like this. The firmly believe that playing these sports can be bad for a child’s development due to injuries and less time spent on academics. I don’t see it like this. Contrary to belief, athletes on average tend to get better grades and be less lonely than their non-athlete counterparts. These are a few of many reasons why sports are great for children and youth and don’t pose a risk to their development.

One of the first arguments you’ll hear from those against sports for youth is how grades are negatively impacted from youth playing too many sports. This has been proved wrong. A multiyear study in Michigan (from the article Are High School Sports Good For Kids?) shows that children who play multiple sports have increased educational aspirations. They also have closer ties to school. Michael Lorenc …show more content…
A study from the University of Alberta (from the video Notebook: Kids And Sports) has revealed that playing sports not only increases confidence but also gives them more rewarding friendships. I can personally vouch for this myself. I’ve made so many long-lasting relationships with my teammates and coaches. I would have never met these people or even given them the time of day had it not been for sports. This article also reveals that the loneliest kids are those who lack athletic confidence or that disregard sports all together. The ability to communicate with others is such a