The Importance of School Sports in American Education & Socialization
In America, at least one of every three high school students will participate in a team sport. The American educational system encourages athletics as contributing to a well-rounded, healthy society. Sports instill a form of competition that helps to develop individuals physically, emotionally, mentally, socially and sometimes even financially.
Physical Effects
Physical activity is necessary for a healthy body. To inspire children to participate in physical activities, sports are used as a stimulus to increase participation and effort levels. Of the two events, running a mile or playing soccer, which would produce the best results? Believe it or not, soccer would have the highest success rate due to the interest level and the overall physical exertion applied. People are apt to work harder if they are having fun, which promotes socialization. In a typical ninety-minute soccer game, a player runs an average of four to six miles without even realizing how hard she is working!
Emotional Effects
Another reason sports are a part of the American lifestyle is because of its effects on people emotionally. Sports give individuals a sense of belonging because of the team attitude: "Together Everyone Achieves More!" Being a part of a team increases self-esteem because of the sense of value of the contribution of the individual. If a player lands a position on a team that prevails during the season, he may develop a high level self-confidence. These increased levels of self-worth are transferred from athletics to everyday events in life, improving the odds of success for former athletic team members.
Brain Workout
Exercise affects every aspect of the body, including the brain. During exercise neurons are produced and connections are forged between neurons. Neuron connections are like jumper cables in a car. The activated brain cells stimulate other parts of the brain to work effectively. The brain stimulation of exercise helps develop a stronger memory, according to Sandra Aamodt and Sam Wang, writing in the "New York Times." Add sports to the mix and mental development is augmented. Sports require a lot of thinking, planning and strategizing. This process of creating a game plan or a plan of attack to win the competition fosters thinking and mental growth. During the competition, athletes are thinking continuously, increasing mental development.
Social Development
Social skills are a prominent attribute of sports, and socialization is the result. Sports allow people to collaborate while competing in a common pastime. Members of a team build special bonds and friendships that can last a lifetime. Some conversations during the course of a season will be positive, while other conversations could be negative, but even controversial situations help people grow socially. Learning to overcome adversity is a part of life. Social skills are a necessity in everyday life, yet these skills can be taught effectively through sports.
Financial Benefits
A major component of sports in American society is the financial benefit that can be obtained. Sports alone can give students the financial assistance needed to achieve a college education. Athletic scholarships are available at most colleges. These scholarships range from minimal amounts to full rides. A few superior athletes are offered careers as professionals in their sports. In the United States, professional athletes get paid anywhere from $43,000 to $1,000,000 or more a year, depending on the sport.
Tags: American Education, American Education Socialization, Education Socialization, helps develop, Importance School