The Lives of Students Athletes By: Sarenity Monroe

Being in high school and dealing with grades, friendships, and mental health is all a feat and it can take a toll on young students' lives and minds. High school students already feel the mental toll of life as a teenager, but it is safe to say that student athletes feel this toll slightly stronger. It states in the article, McLean: Putting Peoples First in Mental Health, "Athletes are often admired for their physical prowess. However, despite their exceptional talents, the demands of performance can take a drastic toll on their mental health." Not only do student athletes feel the effects of their sport mentally, but they are also heavily affected socially. 10th grade lacrosse and flag football player, Lila Hoage, states, “I think it effects my social life negatively because it takes up a lot of time.”

Although there are a few down sides too being a student athlete there is also beauty in the skill of being able to juggle life, school, and sports. Most teenagers that are playing a sport in high school have been playing for years. There have been plenty of times when students have wanted to give up or feel burnt out and want to quit but because they feel so connected, many learn to develop a love for their sport even with the flaws. The life of a student athlete can be hectic and time consuming, like stated by 10th Grade softball player, Kailyn Lee, “Time management” is an important skill to keep in mind when thinking about joining a sports team as a high school student.

As most say, “there is no I in team. “That is the truth for many young athletes. Without the support of a team, people there to help build players up and critique mistakes, many wouldn’t be able to finish a game or preform as they do. Hillgrove High School’s very own, Lila Hoage even attests to that, “you have to have a good connection to your teammates in order to play well and have a good game.” Many outsiders watch high school athletes and praise them for being as able bodied and hard working as they are but there are always two sides to every story. Being a student athlete doesn’t come without flaws. There are plenty of missed after school hangouts, plenty of late-night practices, and bruises to show how hard working and dedicated teenage athletes can be. Mental health is a priority for all and student athletes can’t do it all.