Playing organized sports is proven to make people more physiologically healthy, but it also builds character, and prepares participants for life as an adult.
According to the Center of Disease Control, regular physical activity, such as participating in sports, control your weight, reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, reduce your risk for type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, reduce your risk of some cancers, strengthen your bones and muscles, improve your mental health and mood, improve your ability to do daily activities and prevent falls if you’re an older adult, and increase your chances of living longer.
The True Sport Report, a journal put out by the Canadian Center for Ethics in Sport, reports that students who play sports make higher grades, have higher expectations, and higher attainment. Students who play sports also have a greater connection to the school and stronger peer relationships.
SFCC coaches say that playing sports teaches students how to set goals, communicate, understand roles, and trust.
“I believe that sport helps build, form, and develop a participant’s character,” said Jeremy Groth, men’s basketball coach at SFCC.
“The benefits that come with participating in sports are abundant.”
There are many parallels between student athletics and life after college.
“Every team you coach, you set goals,” said Bruce Johnson, coach of the women’s basketball team at SFCC.
Justin Ryan spent three years coaching youth soccer in Spokane. While there are many benefits in team sports, he pointed out that there are also disadvantages.
“A negative effect can certainly stem from expectations placed on the kid from their parents, relatives, friends, even themselves,” said Ryan.
“Further, even if a kid reaches all of their goals, they will quickly realize that this won’t fulfill their desire. As with other pursuits, sports must be placed in their proper place as a means to some other goods (friendships, physical shape, etc.), rather than being the end to which life is directed.”
In sum, sports offer myriad advantages both physically and mentally, but pose potential problems when expectations are too high and pressure is too great. Taking both factors into account help lead to a balanced and happier life.