This article was written by Anayah Mendez-Chess
It’s cliche to say, but four years of high school go by fast! It will be finished in a blink. That’s why it’s important to make the most of every high school minute.
Here at Northview Highschool, there are many things you can do outside of the classroom. Ranging from playing sports like basketball and tennis to participating in clubs like drama club and science olympiad. Trying clubs or sports you haven’t been exposed to yet can be nerve racking. However the experience can improve social skills and encourage a student to come out of their shell. Every student should participate in a sport or a club throughout their high school years.
Joining a club or a sport can develop new bonds with people, you’d never even think about speaking too. For all sports, every time a team is formed it creates a family-like atmosphere amongst a group of people. When playing a sport you spend most of the time with your teammates through long and hard practices or matches, eventually growing closer and building a strong bond.
Another reason for all students to participate in an after school activity is because there are a variety of options students can choose. Since there are so many choices, if you try one and you dislike it, go on to the next. Make the most of your high school career by trying new things outside of your comfort zone to live your teenage years to the fullest potential.
An added bonus on joining a sport in particular is the fact that being active is an excellent way to get in shape. Putting your body through something you aren’t familiar with can be difficult and hard on your body, but it makes you a healthier version of yourself. Different sports like basketball, soccer and swimming can improve endurance and can transform your body improving your self confidence, mental state of mind and physical well being in the extracurricular you choose.
Former Varsity Girls basketball coach Sarah Snyder knows the value of getting out of your comfort zone and trying new things.
“Yes,I feel like being involved in a club or a sport absolutely helps you get out there and makes you do something you wouldn’t normally be interested in,” Snyder said.
Furthermore Snyder believes sports and clubs are a great place to start when trying to be more social with people and making friends.
“I think at least trying helps build self confidence to speak to people. When you’re on a team, you’ve spent a lot of your time with that certain group. That will form a bond and many friendships,” Snyder said.
Similarly, senior Shannon Gould knows from playing two sports the benefit this involvement brings to her life.
“Sports have definitely been an escape for me, they’ve helped me let loose. You are able to translate anger and sadness into what you play. It helps you feel better inside, even after the event is done,” Gould said.
Gould also knows sports are also a great way to build bonds with the group of people you’re playing a sport with.
“I deeply agree with that because you are a group of people on a team that all come together to play the sport you love. You all share a sense of competitiveness and love towards your sport,” Gould said.
Overall, trying a sport or a club at Northview is very beneficial and will benefit student life. Being out of your comfort zone results in life long friendships along with personal growth and finding new passions.
In the words of motivational speaker Brian Tracy, “Move out of your comfort zone. You can only grow if you are willing to feel awkward and uncomfortable when you try something new.”
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