For a majority of us, our parents signed us up for recreational sports leagues by the time we start Elementary school in hopes for us to find a new hobby, meet new friends, or just a place to burn off our never-ending childhood energy. As we’ve grown older many have decided that recreational leagues weren’t enough and slowly more and more of us transitioned to the world of competitive sports. Now attending high school, a majority of students have left the half time oranges and after-game treats provided by our rec leagues, and are fully committed to the world of competitive clubs, leagues, and high school sports. Despite this, some athletes attending Mountain View High School continue to still play recreationally and have repudiated competitive leagues and their large commitment and stressful competitive nature.
Many club or high school athletes will get home from practice at a late hour and stay up frantically to try and finish their homework or cram for a test. With some high school sports requiring 2-4 hours a day, five days a week, some students would rather focus on academics such as sophomore Parker Harrison. “I didn’t want as big of a commitment with club or high school soccer and instead wanted to focus on school, and rec soccer is still a great way to stay in shape.” Harrison said. With high school sports following the end of sixth period many high school athletes aren’t able to come home until 7:00 or 8:00 and struggle to finish their homework in a timely manner. Competitive leagues also bring a whole different side to sports. A side that puts more value on skill, rankings, winning and whatever it takes to get there. During games and practices this brings out a competitive and aggressive drive in many players, coaches, and teams. Conversely, rec sports, for example AYSO values“…Everyone Plays®, Balanced Teams, Open Registration, Positive Coaching, Good Sportsmanship and Player Development.”
Ravi Singhal, a sophomore, plays NJB basketball alternatively to high school level. “High school is a cut sport so not everyone makes it, also the teams are more balanced.” Because many competitive sports emphasize winning, playing time will never be equal. an individual may travel to a different state for a tournament and may only end up playing five minutes of a game.
Weather one plays competitive and high school sports in hopes of a college scholarship, for higher competition or to win a state cup. Or if you play recreational sports to simply to stay in shape or just for the love of the sport, both leagues provide more to your day than just school and homework. It provides a place to exercise, compete, and a place of enjoyment while creating memories and relationships throughout the entire season.