Having early morning practices, classes, hours of homework and games that can vary at any time, being a student-athlete can be like having two full-time jobs. While playing a sport can feel rewarding, it also raises an important question. Are student-athletes expected to do too much?
PC: Unsplash; A student athlete
For many high school athletes, the school day does not end when the final bell rings. Instead, it is followed by practices, workouts, team meetings, and competitions. After getting home, athletes still have assignments to finish and tests to study for. Finding enough time for sleep, family and friends can quickly become difficult.
The pressure can be especially challenging when athletes are expected to maintain good grades while still meeting their team’s expectations; missing practice or performing poorly in a game can sometimes feel like letting teammates or coaches down. At the same time, falling behind in school can create additional stress. Trying to succeed in both areas can leave students feeling anxious and overwhelmed.
However, being in sports has many upsides. Athletics can teach discipline, teamwork, leadership and time management. For some students, sports are also an important way to make friends, stay active or take a break from school pressure. The goal is not to take these opportunities away, but rather to make sure students can enjoy them without sacrificing their well-being.
The problem begins when being committed to a sport means feeling guilty for taking a break. Student-athletes are still students, and they need time to rest and focus on their lives outside of sports or school. Constantly feeling expected to be perfect in the classroom and in sports can make it harder to enjoy something that should be rewarding.
Coaches, teachers and parents can help by recognizing how much students are balancing. Reasonable practice schedules, communication about school deadlines and an understanding of the importance of rest can make a difference. Athletes also need to be able to feel comfortable asking for help when their responsibilities become too much.
Ultimately, being a student athlete should be about growth, not constant exhaustion. Students should be able to challenge themselves, improve their skills and pursue their goals while still having time to be teenagers. Sports are meant to build students up, not leave them feeling like they can never do enough.
So, are student athletes expected to do too much? For some, the answer may be yes. Finding a healthier balance could help students not only as athletes, but also as students and people.