Senior year is a time of reflection for many high school students. We reflect upon previous classes, friends who have come and gone, and amazing teachers who helped us along the way. A major aspect of their time at IHS for a great deal of students is their experience with sports. For most kids, it has helped shape them into the individuals they are today.
As I approach my tenth and final sports season, I can confidently say I will never regret the energy, time, and effort I put into my two sports: tennis and softball. I encourage anyone who is thinking about joining a sport to do so, and I want to share why I believe playing a sport at IHS is one of the best decisions you can make in your high school career
1. Make incredible friends
I would have never become friends with the majority of my teammates had I not decided to join the sport. Over time, tryouts, practices, and bus rides to and from games can transform distant strangers into great friends. It is a wonderful feeling to walk to your class and be able to say hi to teammates scattered throughout bustling hallways. Being a part of a team enables you to feel and be more connected to the IHS community.
2. Build communication skills
Playing a sport teaches you how to handle constructive criticism and how to ask for help when you are not getting what you need. These skills can transfer over to every other facet of your life. Personally, I have become more confident in asking for what I want and I have learned how to truly receive and internalize feedback when it is given. Whether you are on the track, court, field, or rink, you will inevitably find yourself wanting or needing assistance with your technique. Being a part of a team allows you to hone in on your communication and confidence skills.
3. Get exercise
Everyone knows that everyday practices, workouts in the weight room, and games can be exhausting at times. Instead of dreading these times because I know they will be tiring, I think of the great workout that I am receiving. When I reflect upon when I was the happiest during my time at high school, tennis and softball come into mind. This is because exercise makes us feel happier, sleep better, and improves our overall physical wellbeing.
4. Learn the game and make connections
When you learn about your specific sport in depth, you are enriching yourself with information and expanding your mind. Later in life, such information can be a point of conversation with others. When people think back to their high school years, they usually bring up sports if they played them. This can help you bond with other people who have shared a familiar experience. Additionally, you may find yourself watching a basketball game and being able to understand exactly why a player acted a certain way. This is a fantastic feeling because it reminds you of all the hard work you put in to being a team player.
5. It’s fun!
When you pick a sport that intrigues you and that you genuinely want to get better at, you will have more fun than if you choose a sport based on its popularity or stigma associated with it. By picking the sport that is right for you, you will be happier and enjoy the sport even more.