Greg2

Does the school overemphasize the importance of Athletics in contrast to Academics?

   I think that the school does place too much emphasis on the importance of athletics as opposed to academics. I do like athletics, and I am not saying that they are necessarily bad. However, the school places too much of a fuss on athletics, while they should be concentrating on academics.
   Firstly, the school was designed to be an institution of learning. Therefore, the focus should be on those students who achieve academically. The reason you can tell that this school places too much on athletics is the fact that, the only reason our school is known from anywhere is because of our football and basketball team. Instead of celebrating the victories of the football team, we should celebrate what students make all A's, and all A's and B's. We should also encourage other students to try to achieve academically. I have noticed recognition by the principal in recent years of honor roll students, and that is a good start.
   Secondly, athletics doesn't help you out in life as much as academics. Knowing how to throw the perfect curveball is not going to help you know how to be a doctor. Just as knowing how to properly throw a football pass is not going to help you lead troops in battle. Rigorous academic work along with minimal athletic work is what makes a good leader and a good worker.

Rigorous academic work prepares you for the real world. It introduces you to deadlines, writing orders, writing essays, observing, listening, and lots of other good leadership skills. Even if you get into college on a football scholarship, that doesn't mean that you are going to stay there. It also doesn't mean that you are going to be a professional football player. Not everyone is going to be the next Steve Young. You were supposed to learn that in the third grade when the guidance counselor asks you what you want to do in life.
In conclusion, sports and athletics are not necessarily bad and unnecessary, but they aren't going to get along in the real world. The real world is not High School or College. You are not going to be a famous politician or general because you scored the winning touchdown of a state championship game in High School. They way you achieve that is through rigorous academic classes with light athletic emphasis.