By Minh Tran

SAN JOSE, CALIF.—Student athletes talk about their experiences in school sports here at Silver Creek high school and give their thoughts about the benefits of joining sports.

The best known benefit of joining a sports team is improving one’s physical health and fitness, with a big motivator being that there are cuts and limited spots. Some who are passionate about sports will go out of their way to finish schoolwork early so they can participate in practices to make the team. 

Students can also be more involved in networking. They can do this by watching and practicing with varsity players and spending lunch or brunch with them. 

“As a upper classman, you have to help teach the underclassman’s skills and techniques that they haven’t learned yet” says Michael Troung. Getting to know your varsity players better allows you to seek motivation and skills from them. Students also have the opportunity to learn new techniques such as, improving teamwork in team matches and games against other schools. Students can assist each other through progress, motivate and teach their techniques. 

Beyond physical activities alone, students who have joined sports tend to stay consistent with the sport, actively participating in tryouts, and improving outside of school. With the introduction of skill-based ranking, athletes are encouraged to stay consistent to keep up with demands for a higher performance. Furthermore, joining a sport can help with time management for schoolwork, projects, homework and other school-related work. It is important to keep oneself responsible for the things that need to be prioritized before sports.

In addition to social benefit and academic skills, all sports offer frequent games and practices, enhancing skills like leadership, problem-solving and communication. It can also help with relieving stress by exercising your body, clearing your mind from long days of classes, and making an additional investment in your day. Sports can also provide students with a break away from schoolwork to focus on the game at hand.

There are many benefits to joining sports like improving your overall health, building stronger connections, and finding a positive outlet for stress. The key is maintaining balance between academic and physical activities.(355)

Silver Creek baseball player playing short stop. (NATHAN NUNEZ/RAIDER REVIEW)

Silver Creek football player waiting on the sideline during break, waiting to get in on defense.(NATHAN NUNEZ/RAIDER REVIEW)