Any day during the school year, students, staff, and parents fill the bleachers to support the school’s home teams. High school sports seem like they aren’t much compared to professional athletics because of the skill-level difference. However, high school sports have impacts on big-time athletics as well.
While watching high school sports, the spectators gain personal connections with the players, teams, and possibly coaches, which are what professional sports lack. Fans who watch professional sports are only focused on scores, statistics, reports, and all-time records. High school sports shift the focus from only winning to how the game is played. Viewers of high school games tend to consider how these athletes are balancing academics, clubs, and community service while competing in their sport(s) multiple days per week.
High school sports also bring sportsmanship and how other students view them into perspective. While watching classmates or friends compete while respecting others and keeping a friendly environment, this may alter the way that other students view sportsmanship, which could inspire others to be kind to one another, no matter what the circumstances are.
When asked about how high school sports have had a positive impact on them, sophomore Jamie Deitch, who is the starting pitcher for varsity softball, said, “Playing softball for the high school has positively impacted me in many ways. One of the most important things is all the support I’ve received from my teammates and parents. This season, I stepped up to be the starting pitcher. I was definitely a bit nervous, but everyone has been so supportive. In between each pitch, I take a moment to glance over at everyone in the field. I always see them cheering for me whether I just threw a ball or strike. All this support boosts my confidence every day and makes me feel better about myself.”
Students may bond over sports as well, which can lead to friendships being formed. One may not notice the presence of others daily, but if one has something in common with that person, one can bond over it. Sophomore Gisele Dubuche, who plays alternate doubles on varsity badminton, explained, “I really enjoy meeting new people on the team! All the girls are amazing people and are willing to give tips when needed. Badminton has also become a great way for me to let off steam after a long day of classes.” Zoe Varol, a freshman, who plays goalie for JV girls soccer and moved up to varsity during playoffs, said, “Well, high school sports got me to socialize more with people I normally wouldn’t talk to, not just with our school but with other schools as well. When you have a travel teammate playing for another school, it creates a healthy motivation to win.”
Most important of all, high school sports show the struggles and reality that lead to success. Professional sports mainly highlight the fame and success of athletes, while high school sports show the effort, commitment, and improvement that students put towards their sport while balancing many other hardships in their lives.
High school sports are more than just entertainment; they shape how students view competition and teamwork. Behind every athlete who is successful, there once was a person who balanced sports, academics, clubs, and a social life, just like many of our students here at LHS.
