Student Athlete Research Paper

Benefits of Being a Student-Athlete It is common knowledge that exercise is good for you mentally, physically, and emotionally; however, do we really know the extent of the benefits that come from physical activity? As a student-athlete, I can personally say that playing softball motivates me on a regular basis to do well in school. Softball gives me opportunities that I would not have without playing any sports, such as a solid friend group, a chance to make memories in high school other than being stuck in a classroom, and it keeps me in shape and happy with my health. Student-athletes are more likely to succeed in school and life than regular students are because they realize that it is a privilege to play the sport.

Studies show that exercise

When staying physically active, and especially playing a sport, an individual will learn how to become mentally diligent, which will translate into their schooling, as proven by these statistics. Not only do athletes prove themselves with their GPA’s, they also have shown to outperform in other academic areas, “Approximately 86 percent of NCAA Division I athletes graduate from college, according to the NCAA...by comparison, the Federal Graduation Rate (including athletes and non-athletes) is only 64 percent” (Robinson). With more than a 20 percent difference, it is not hard for one to draw the conclusion that sports must play a large role in staying active in school and completing school. Student-athletes also generally have an easier time finding and receiving extra help they need when either falling behind in school, as happens to the best of

It is true that people often find it hard to balance all of the different aspects of their lives, and athletes are no exception, as they are human, too. However, when they feel overwhelmed, they are often offered help and extra resources from their schools, especially as collegiate athletes. The NCAA, the program who sets rules and regulations for college athletes at many schools says, “Student-athletes receive academic support, such as state-of-the-art technology and tutoring, and have access to athlete-focused academic advisors in addition to traditional academic advisors” (Dthomas). When I have gone to visit colleges and have talked to different coaches at the colleges I was interested in, there is one consistent thing, and it is that they always advocate for grades above sports. The schools are always sure to show you where to get help and when you can get it from the tutors. Students-athletes also get extra opportunities that are not offered to other students such as health and travel benefits. “Student-athletes have access to cafeteria “training tables” on campus. In addition, some schools hire nutritionists and dieticians to work with each individual student-athlete” (Dthomas). A healthy body makes a healthy mind which will allow students to achieve their goals and learn to become well rounded