Athletics – Benefits of Athletic Participation
• Athletic activities support the academic mission of schools
• Athletic activities are inherently educational
• Athletic activities foster success in later life
Sports are not a diversion but rather an extension of a good educational program. Students who participate in activity programs tend to have higher grade-point averages, better attendance records, lower dropout rates and fewer discipline problems than students generally.
Sports provide valuable lessons for practical situations. It develops a strong work ethic, a healthy appreciation and understanding of winning and losing, and overcoming adversity. Through participation in sports, students learn self-discipline, build self-confidence and develop skills to handle competitive situations. These are qualities parents expect schools to produce in students so that they become responsible adults and productive citizens.
Participation in high school athletics is often a predictor of later success – in college and career choices and in becoming contributing members of society.