Carlos Chancay

Playing a sport in high school is not an uncommon choice for many students. But, oftentimes athletes find out that being on a team is so much more than just playing the game together.
“Playing sports throughout my high school experience has brought me so many friends, great experiences, and taught me so many things that I can apply outside of the sports world,” said tracker runner Rahma Giwa.
Playing sports in high school can provide the opportunity to learn new skills that can be used in the future.
“Being a member of a sports team teaches you the value of teamwork; striving for a common goal that is bigger than one individual. As a team member, student-athletes learn to communicate, cooperate, and develop confidence,” said Athletic Director Jennfier Lynch.
Specifically, teamwork skills are essential for life post-high school.
“I had to learn how to trust my teammates, and be selfless enough to do what’s best for the team, not me specifically,” said junior varsity hockey player Heath Hebb.
In addition, figuring out a balance between school, practice, and life can be challenging, but throughout the season, athletes learn how to manage it all.
“Especially in the fall, sports are a great way to start the school year, being able to manage time the way student athletes do is a great skill to have,” said Spanish teacher Micheal Taylor.
Sports can also be socially beneficial to incoming freshmen, helping with the transition from middle school to high school.
“Knowing girls from the team made high school less intimidating for me because I knew I would be able to recognize a few friendly faces in the hallways,” said junior varsity soccer player Lilly Groccia.
Not only can high school sports benefit student’s lives by teaching them useful skills, the community and friendships created during the time spent together can be an unique experience.
“I’ve made so many friends through softball. We’re like a big family,” said varsity softball player, sophomore Addison Scoble.
The friendships made on the field often stay alive off the field.
“Some of my closest friends to this day were made through the sports I played growing up” said Physical Education teacher Derek VanOudenhove
Although bonds can be formed from these teams, sometimes there can be a divide.
“I’ve definitely seen cliques and conflicts socially throughout the years as a coach. Sometimes it can really affect the performance of the team,” said VanOudenhove.
Even though there can be some negative aspects of sports teams, some students would say that the friends made through high school athletics cannot be replicated.
“If it wasn’t for sports, I wouldn’t have met some of the people I am so close to now,” said cross country and track runner, junior Tea Mornini.
Unforgettable memories are made through sports programs.
“When I got my first homerun, I remember rounding third base, and seeing all the girls cheering for me. When I got to home, they all circled around and were jumping around cheering for me. It was the best feeling ever,” said Scoble.
With friendship and memories combined, some adults that have participated say high school athletics can be an extraordinary experience for anyone.
“I think it’s important to have areas outside the classroom to make friends, a group of kids that click can create a family environment, making the season more enjoyable for everyone,” said VanOudenhove.