The Effects of High School Sports on Academic Achievement

Abstract

Every year students participate in extracurricular activities and sports. They devote many hours to their sports and extra interests, all taking time away from academics. Research suggests that students are affected by their participation in extracurricular activities and sports, but thus far the research is not conclusive in its findings. Control groups in Northern California as a part of an experimental P.A.S.S. (Promoting Achievement in School through Sports) program saw academic improvement by using athletics as a bargaining chip. Other research in the elementary, middle, and high school levels saw varying levels of academic change for students participating in both competitive sports and simple physical activities. There are also studies noting the correlation between sports participation and emotional well-being. The following research project primarily discusses the impacts of sports on academics, but it also considers the changes to students' well-being as a result of sports participation and does so via a qualitative and quantitative study of school sports and academics at the high school level. Results suggest students improve their positive self-image, but suffer academically. The data show school sports as an integral part of student education. The concern addressed in this research project is whether or not students are willing to suffer academically in the pursuit of sports.