Murray, NEB- High School is a very busy time for many student-athletes across the United States. But studies for over a century have shown that students participating in high school athletics have better stress-management and high academic benchmarks. Participating in high school athletics has long-lasting benefits, sports challenge leadership, time management, and teamwork. All three skills listed are very valuable life skills that are supported through high school athletics.

A study conducted at Northwest Missouri State comparing the grade point averages of student athletes compared to non-student athletes. The average grade point average of student athletes was 3.56, while the average GPA of non-athlete-students was 3.40. Because of the academic requirement to participate in high school sports, student athletes must maintain their grades to be able to participate. According to atyourownrisk.org, high school students, especially female students, who play sports are less likely to drop out. Student athletes are 15% more likely to attend college. Student athletes earn up to 40% higher test scores. Participating in high school athletics doesn’t only benefit your education, it can build very valuable relationships that you can utilize for the rest of your life.

High school athletics are very valuable for the present and for the future. Sports will not only improve your physical fitness, it also will benefit your mental health and give a sense of involvement. According to scripps.org, students who play sports have been linked to less rates of depression and anxiety. High school is helping prepare students for life, sports will help students gain essential qualities to help them flourish in life.