Choosing High School Sports for Non-Athletic Students
When considering which high school sports to participate in, many non-athletic students may feel unsure or discouraged. The pressure to excel in sports can be overwhelming, especially if you're not naturally skilled at them. However, there are still viable options that can enhance your academic and personal development without the constant need for exceptional athletic prowess.
When Skip Sports All Together Might Not Be Best
While it's true that being exceptionally skilled in sports can look impressive on college applications, not every student is fortunate enough to be naturally athletic. If you are not particularly skilled or athletic, it might seem like skipping high school sports altogether is the easiest route. But as Toni Twilli suggests, swimming and cross country might be excellent choices.
The key is to find a sport that allows you to participate without the need to be the best. It's not about being the standout player, but rather being a member of a team and contributing to the overall success of the group. This approach can help you build teamwork skills and a sense of belonging, which are valuable traits regardless of your athletic abilities.
Swimming and Cross Country: Ideal Options for Non-Athletic Students
Two sports that come highly recommended for non-athletic students are swimming and cross country. Both require some level of skill, but the skills needed are more accessible than those required for many other sports.
Swimming: Many people already know how to swim, making it an accessible sport. Additionally, swimming offers numerous physical benefits and can be a lifelong hobby. With proper coaching, you can develop your swimming skills to the level you need for a high school team.
Cross Country Running: Running, especially distance running, requires some skills but these can be learned with good coaching. If you're in good shape, cross country can be an excellent choice. It can be a rewarding way to stay fit and contribute to the team without the high-pressure demands of more specialized sports.
Other Considerations: Golf and Crew Rowing
Some other sports that are worth considering include golf and crew rowing. Golf, like swimming, is accessible even for beginners. With little experience, you can learn a lot from a coach and improve your skills over time. The skills you develop in golf can also translate into patience, focus, and strategic thinking.
Crew Rowing: If your school offers rowing, it can be a great way to get into shape and experience the thrill of the water. While many beginners have no experience, they will be trained on ergometers to build upper body strength and endurance. Rowing can be a fantastic team sport that doesn't require natural athleticism.
Focus on Team Sports for College Applications
While individual sports can be valuable, if you're applying to top colleges, it's essential to show sincerity and a broad range of activities. If you choose a team sport, ensure it aligns with your personal interests and activities. For instance, a student passionate about computer science might make a compelling case for why they volunteered to tutor robotics clubs at middle schools, alongside their participation in a foreign language club.
Ultimately, the goal is to showcase your commitment, diversity, and willingness to participate in activities that interest you. Whether through swimming, cross country, golf, or crew rowing, you can find a way to contribute meaningfully to your school community while developing valuable life skills.
Remember, the key is finding a sport that fits your interests and helps you grow as a person. Every activity you engage in, whether through sports or other extracurriculars, matters as you navigate your high school years and beyond.