Emily Cho ’28, Sports Writer

A student-athlete jogging on the sports field. (Photo courtesy of The Union) 

It’s safe to say that we all have played a sport at some point in our lives, whether it be in school or as an extracurricular activity. Sports are known to offer health benefits and can also support mental well-being. It is key for individuals to exercise or work out, whether it be a quick jog or lifting those impossible 25-pound weights. It’s not a surprise that engaging in physical activity is considered to be exhilarating, though tiring, but this “toil” always comes with a reward.

Playing sports is known to increase concentration levels, according to the University of Bridgeport. Exercise and sports increases blood flow to the brain, which helps the brain build more connections between nerves. When these connections are strengthened, students experience improved concentration, memory, and thinking skills. In other words — they can focus better. 

Athletes are also expected to abide by the rules of their sport. By abiding by the rules of the sport, athletes can learn to listen. Therefore, athletes can listen to complex lectures and retain information quickly. This can also relate to higher test scores. In a study from At Your Own Risk, it was shown that student-athletes earn up to 40 percent higher test scores than students who are not athletes. Sports can lead to improved performance and academic excellence, and we all want improved test results. 

We communicate a lot in school, whether in group projects or friendly banter with friends. We don’t realize it, but interpersonal skills are used in most regular school life. While playing sports, we develop interpersonal skills such as leadership, communication, and better time management. A study in 2016 from the National Library of Medicine found that children exposed to physical activity showed less aggressive behavior. Playing with our teammates and listening to our coaches is a great way to increase necessary interpersonal skills as we develop team tactics and a solid work ethic. Athletes can then take these skills from the sports fields to the classrooms, integrating them into daily life. 

Sports can help a student learn and become prepared for what is to come in the classroom as they will likely retain information better and increase their interpersonal skills. So put on your jerseys and slide your sneakers on! Hit the NA field!