Why Do Sports Matter In Schools?

By Herman M. Lagon

Imagine the energy of the Tamasak gymnasium filled with cheers, the buzz of excitement in the upcoming RSCUAA 2024 Opening Ceremonies, or the shared thrill of scoring a point in a classroom volleyball game. For many, sports are more than games; they are life’s best teachers. In schools, sports are foundational for physical health and building a resilient character. Sports encourage confidence, teamwork, and emotional strength—all vital traits students carry long after the final whistle. In our basic and higher education, where academic achievements are typically prized, introducing a robust sports program in schools can revolutionize learning and personal growth in ways even textbooks can’t.

Beyond physical benefits, sports serve as a training ground for life skills essential to success. According to research, students who participate in physical activities show better academic performance due to improved concentration, enhanced memory, and stronger discipline. Studies like those from the National Education Longitudinal Study (NELS) reveal that students involved in sports consistently excel academically and develop a growth mindset. For our schools, fostering such positive habits through sports can translate to a generation that values hard work and perseverance. Here, sports are not just for the athletically gifted—they are an investment in every student’s success.

The RSCUAA, an annual regional sports event in Region VI, has set a standard for championing youth sports. Organized by the 14-member Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC)-Western Visayas and now set at and hosted by Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) this December 15-20, 2024, the event celebrates student-athletes from all corners of Panay, Guimaras, and Negros Occidental, encouraging competition with integrity and teamwork. The platform is a launchpad for future sports icons, but the value of RSCUAA, much like Palarong Pambansa, extends beyond trophies; it fosters unity, discipline, and sportsmanship. For students, competing at this level teaches resilience—a quality often learned through each win and loss.

As educators and parents, the priority should not solely be on academic learning but on shaping well-rounded individuals. Sports allow students to develop social skills, manage conflicts, and build friendships through shared goals. They learn to communicate, cooperate, and respect different perspectives in team sports. For example, players working together in a basketball game learn more than just shooting hoops—they cultivate trust, patience, and adaptability. These skills help them thrive in various aspects of life, from the classroom to the workplace, and contribute to creating a more inclusive, understanding society.

Mental health benefits are another compelling reason to integrate sports into school curricula. With rising rates of stress and anxiety among students, sports provide a healthy outlet for emotional release and mental rejuvenation. Regular physical activity releases endorphins, reduces stress, and promotes overall well-being. According to the World Health Organization, regular exercise significantly lowers depression and anxiety rates, especially in young people. In the Philippines, where discussions on mental health in schools are growing, sports could be a practical approach to positively helping students manage emotional challenges.

Moreover, the character-building aspect of sports is unmatched. Resilience, fairness, and humility—qualities honed on the playing field—are indispensable. Through the lens of caring for the whole person, students benefit when sports teach them values that align with respect and empathy. By engaging in sports, students experience the highs of victory and the lows of defeat, each moment a lesson in handling emotions, setting realistic goals, and nurturing self-respect. This well-rounded approach is crucial for developing individuals who respect themselves and others.

The long-term health benefits of sports shouldn’t be overlooked. In today’s digital age, where children are more sedentary, sports can combat lifestyle diseases like obesity and diabetes. The Philippine Heart Association notes that cardiovascular fitness reduces health risks considerably, even at a young age. Schools can encourage lifelong healthy habits that benefit the individual and society by promoting a fitness culture. Palarong Pambansa has been instrumental in highlighting these benefits, making sports a national interest and educating communities on the importance of physical health.

Implementing sports in education also nurtures leadership and decision-making. When students step into roles like team captains, they learn accountability and how to guide others toward a common goal. A Philippine-based study by the Asia-Pacific Journal of Sports Medicine highlights how students in leadership roles develop superior decision-making skills, which positively impacts their academic and future careers. Here, the gym becomes a classroom, and every game is an opportunity to sharpen these skills.

While sports in schools face challenges—like limited facilities and funding—the benefits outweigh the obstacles. Through partnerships with local governments and organizations, more students can be provided with opportunities to explore sports. For instance, the Olympic-standard sports complex that Uswag Ilonggo has provided for our school at ISUFST exemplifies this. Community collaboration can bridge resource gaps, making sports accessible for every student who dreams of excelling.

As we advocate for sports in education, the call is not just for more gym classes or extra-curricular activities but a shift in how we view holistic learning. Sports complement academics by engaging the body and mind, making learning dynamic and experiential. Just as RSCUAA and Palarong Pambansa have become a symbol of athletic pride, integrating sports in schools regionwide and nationwide could be a step towards fostering resilience, character, and community among the youth. And who knows? The next Carlos Yulo or Hidilyn Diaz could be waiting in our schools, ready to leap into greatness.

Ultimately, sports education is about more than developing athletes; it is about nurturing champions in life. By giving students the tools to cope with challenges, celebrate successes, and respect others, sports contribute to building a compassionate and resilient society. If there is one lasting takeaway, it is this: when schools invest in sports, they invest in the best version of every student.

***

Doc H fondly describes himself as a “student of and for life” who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with.