In a study from the University of Kansas, high school athletes were 10% more likely to graduate than peers who never participated in sports. Why would this be true?
In a study from the University of Kansas, high school athletes were 10% more likely to graduate than peers who never participated in sports. Why would this be true?
• Sports teach kids better time management. Student athletes have to juggle responsibilities.
• Playing sports teaches kids the importance of character. Leadership, self-discipline, patience, perseverance, and a respect for authority are developed.
• Participation in sports builds teamwork and a sense of community.
Teamwork is an effect of playing sports and the environment in a sports team fosters community.
• Being part of a team boosts kids’ self-confidence and self-esteem. Playing a sport
and gaining acceptance of peers makes kids feel confident and improves self-esteem.
• Emotional development is improved when kids play sports. Kids learn to control emotions when facing life’s challenges.
• Student athletes are less likely to participate in risky behaviors. Kids without excessive free time are less likely to get involved with drugs and alcohol or participate in idle activities.
• Team sports provide physical benefits that boost school performance. Playing sports helps kids learn the importance of healthy habits, like proper diet and exercise.
CIS of Georgia in Troup County Site Coordinator Nicholas Griffin was recently awarded the 2022 ASPIRE Gail Hendricks Volunteerism Award for work as adaptive sports coach for West Georgia Wolverines. Nick was also nominated for the 2022 ASPIRE Advocacy Award for advocating for student-athletes participating in adaptive sports within Georgia.
I am extensively involved in my community where I coach middle school football, a state champion high school adaptive sports team (Wolverines), and youth track and field for Troup County Parks and Recreation. I also tutored students, counsel with incarcerated adolescents, and serves as a church volunteer. I am a board member for the Stanley Garden Church and the community organization, CIRCLES, whose mission is to “identify and eliminate the causes of poverty and support those wishing to lift themselves out of poverty.”
I am also a member of the Troup County community organization, HYPE, a member of Georgia STOMP, the Communities in Schools of Georgia’s State Training Team, and most recently, Leadership Troup.On November 2, 2022, I successfully defended my dissertation and earned my PhD in Special Education at Liberty University. I am currently in the process of publishing my work and finalizing graduation.
