Why Athletics is NOT Extracurricular
Athletics and sports participation in high school play a crucial role in students’ holistic development, standing on equal footing with traditional academic classes in terms of importance. This assertion is supported by the multiple benefits offered by athletic programs, spanning physical health, mental well-being, social skills, academic performance, and long-term life skills.
The mission of CCA Athletics is to develop the mind, body, and spirit of our students through fearless competition (Hebrews 12:1), selfless service (Matthew 25:40), mastery of the fundamentals (Matthew 25:23), and tireless pursuit of excellence (Colossians 3:23). Our Athletic Program is a key component of the overall school curriculum. At CCA, through participation in athletics, our goal is to develop Christian character in our student-athletes. Strong emphasis is placed on commitment to the team, perseverance through adversity, communication with fellow athletes and coaches, and the development of good sportsmanship.
Physical Health Benefits
Engaging in sports is crucial for the physical health of high school students. In an era where sedentary lifestyles and screen time are on the rise, regular physical activity is essential to combat obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and other health issues. Sports encourage students to develop habits of regular exercise, which can lead to lifelong health benefits. The structured physical activity provided by school sports ensures that students get a balanced workout, improving their stamina, strength, flexibility, and overall fitness levels.
Mental Well-Being
Beyond physical health, athletics significantly contribute to mental well-being. Participation in sports has been linked to lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression among teenagers. The endorphins released during physical activity act as natural mood lifters, helping students manage the pressures of academic and personal life. Our Head of the Volleyball Program, Coach Celeste Davis, believes that “through playing sports, athletes are taught valuable life skills such as how to communicate with others, increase their resilience, persevere through challenges, implement positive self-talk, and practice self-discipline. All of which can boost confidence and have a positive impact on a student’s overall mental health.”
Development of Social Skills
Sports are a powerful tool for teaching social skills. Through team sports, students learn the values of teamwork, cooperation, and communication. They experience firsthand the importance of working towards a common goal, supporting teammates, and handling wins and losses with grace. These experiences foster a sense of camaraderie and belonging, which is especially important during the formative high school years. The friendships and bonds formed on the field often extend beyond, creating a supportive network that can enhance a student’s social life and sense of community. Our Head Football Coach, Vernon Wells, has played sports since he was 3 years old. While his path took him into professional baseball, his love for football has never wavered. Coach Wells says, “The ‘Brotherhood’ created on the football field is unlike anything I’ve experienced. I pray every young man and young woman experience the support of family through competition, which extends off the field or court.”
Academic Performance
Contrary to the belief that sports might detract from academic performance, numerous studies have shown that student-athletes often perform better academically than their non-athlete peers. The discipline, time management, and goal-setting skills learned through sports are directly applicable to academic pursuits. CCA holds our students accountable with the support and partnership of our faculty, requiring our students to maintain a certain grade point average to remain eligible for sports. This should motivate students to stay focused on their studies. Amy Pryor, CCA High School Principal, says, “Students involved in athletics often have enhanced academic performance. Facing challenges in their sport allows kids to build confidence. And that confidence translates to the classroom the next time they are facing a challenge there. Sports and athletics train them in the habit of working hard to achieve the best results.”
Academic PerformanceLong-Term Life Skills
Our former Headmaster, Dr. Jeffrey, believes “an athletic program in a classical, Christian school can have a lifelong and huge impact on young people. As coaches share their love for the Savior and model and teach Godly character, coaches are shaping the hearts, minds, and lives toward a love for Jesus. They get to do all of this in the context of coaching students to love a sport and learn all of the life lessons that come from competition and teamwork.”
High school athletics impart crucial life skills that go beyond the classroom and the sports field. These include resilience, leadership, and the ability to handle pressure. Athletes learn to push through physical and mental barriers, developing a strong work ethic and perseverance. Leadership opportunities arise naturally in sports, whether through team captain roles or leading by example during practices and games. These experiences help students build confidence and self-esteem, which are essential for personal and professional success. The skills acquired through sports competitions are transferable to many real-life situations, including exams, job interviews, and workplace challenges.s. CCA holds our students accountable with the support and partnership of our faculty, requiring our students to maintain a certain grade point average to remain eligible for sports. This should motivate students to stay focused on their studies. Amy Pryor, CCA High School Principal, says, “Students involved in athletics often have enhanced academic performance. Facing challenges in their sport allows kids to build confidence. And that confidence translates to the classroom the next time they are facing a challenge there. Sports and athletics train them in the habit of working hard to achieve the best results.”
Playing sports in high school is not just extracurricular but essential to a well-rounded education. Sports provide physical health benefits, enhance mental well-being, foster social skills, improve academic performance, and teach valuable life skills. The holistic development facilitated by sports equips students with the tools they need to succeed in all areas of life. Therefore, schools should place equal emphasis on athletics and academics, recognizing the profound and lasting impact that sports can have on students’ lives.
The CCA Athletic program expects our coaches to make a positive impact on our students. We are committed to a high standard of excellence. We understand the importance of developing an attitude that will lead our coaches and teams to always give the best of their talents and abilities to honor God. It is our desire, whether we win or lose, to reflect the grace, humility, and dignity that embodies Christian character.
Interested in visiting Covenant Christian Academy?
Visit our campus during schools hours. Meet faculty, staff, and students and enjoy a tour of our classrooms. Get a first hand look inside our vibrant learning community.