Why You Should Totally Try Sports in High School
Hey Future High Schoolers!
Thinking about what you'll do when you hit high school next year? Same! Between classes, friends, and figuring out your whole vibe, high school can seem pretty overwhelming. But here's something super cool to consider: playing sports!
I know what you might be thinking: "But I'm not super athletic!" or "Sports seem scary!" Trust me, I get it. But playing sports in high school is about way more than just being the next Olympic champion. It's about having fun, making friends, and actually helping your brain do better in school. No joke!
Let's break down why sports are actually the ultimate high school power-up:
Sports Make Your Body AND Brain Stronger 🧠💪
Did you know that when you exercise regularly (like you would in sports practice), your brain literally works better? Scientists have found that students who play sports get better grades than those who don't!
A study from the Centers for Disease Control found that girls who play sports are 20% more likely to have better grades in math and science. How cool is that? It's like sports give your brain a special boost!
Your body releases these things called endorphins when you exercise (they're basically your body's natural happy chemicals). These help you concentrate better in class and remember more of what you learn.
Friends Who Sweat Together, Stay Together 👯♀️
Starting high school means meeting tons of new people, which can be both exciting and low-key nerve-wracking. But joining a sports team is like getting an instant friend group!
Researchers at the University of Michigan found that teenage girls who play team sports have stronger friendships and feel more connected to their school. When you're working together at practice, celebrating wins, or even dealing with tough losses, you create bonds that last beyond just the season.
One 8th grader named Mia told us: "I was super nervous about high school until I joined the volleyball team during summer training. By the first day of actual school, I already had a whole group of friends from different grades who showed me around and sat with me at lunch!"
Sports Help You Handle Life's Drama 🎭
Let's be real—middle school and high school come with stress. Tests, friend drama, family stuff—it all adds up!
Playing sports gives you healthy ways to deal with stress. When you're focused on hitting that volleyball or making that goal, you're not worrying about that math test or whatever drama is happening on social media.
The Women's Sports Foundation found that girls who play sports have better mental health and higher self-confidence. They're less likely to feel anxious or depressed. Sports teach you that you're strong and capable—both on and off the field.
You'll Learn Skills That Matter IRL 📱
Sports don't just teach you how to kick a ball or swing a racket. They teach you real-life skills that matter:
Time management: Balancing practice, games, homework, and social life teaches you how to organize your time (a skill your parents will definitely notice!)
Leadership: Whether you're team captain or just helping a new player learn the ropes, sports give you chances to lead
Teamwork: Learning to work with different personalities (even the ones you don't always vibe with) is a skill you'll use your whole life
Bouncing back: Sports teach you how to handle not winning every time (because nobody does!) and how to come back stronger
According to research from Ernst & Young, 96% of women in C-suite executive positions (aka the boss ladies running companies) played sports when they were younger! They say the skills they learned in sports helped them succeed in their careers.
You Might Discover Your Hidden Talent ✨
Here's something cool to think about: you might be amazing at a sport you've never even tried!
High school has way more sports options than middle school. From traditional teams like soccer and basketball to things like fencing, rowing, golf, or even ultimate frisbee—there are so many choices!
Plus, many high school teams have different levels like varsity, junior varsity, and freshman teams, so you can find the right fit for your skill level. No pressure to be perfect from day one!
But What If I'm Not "Sporty Enough"? 🤔
This is probably the biggest worry I hear from my friends. Here's the truth: high school sports are for EVERYONE, not just the people who've been playing since they were five.
Most schools have "no-cut" teams where everyone who tries out gets to play. Many coaches actually LOVE teaching beginners because you don't have any bad habits to unlearn!
My cousin Maya had never played any sport before high school. She tried out for cross country because "you just have to run, and I figured I could do that!" Now she's team captain in her senior year and planning to run in college!
Ready to Get Started? 🚦
If you're thinking about trying sports in high school, here are some easy next steps:
Talk to your PE teacher - They usually know the coaches at the high school and can give you info
Check out the high school's website - Look for their athletics page to see what sports they offer
Ask about summer camps - Many high school teams run summer programs for middle schoolers
Try stuff now - Join an after-school intramural team or community program to get some practice
Remember it's about having fun - The main point is to enjoy yourself!
The Bottom Line
Playing sports in high school isn't just about becoming the star athlete (though that could happen!). It's about making friends, boosting your confidence, improving your grades, and learning skills that will help you crush it in all areas of life.
You don't have to commit to four years right now. Just try a season of something that sounds interesting! You might discover something you love that makes your whole high school experience way more awesome.
So when you're picking your high school activities, give sports a chance. Future you will totally thank you for it! 💫
What sports are you thinking about trying in high school? Drop a comment below and let us know!
