Let’s Move It!

Everyone knows the value of a solid academic performance in school because learning is the key to success. But is there value in extracurricular activities?

According to a recent study cited by the American Psychological Association, the answer is most definitely yes. The study found that at-risk students who had interests outside the classroom were less likely to leave school early. The National Center for Education Statistics says having these connections gives students a stronger link with the school, higher academic achievements and the desire to continue their education.

Harrison Outlaw is a ninth-grade student at Eustis High School. He says he enjoys the competiveness of baseball and football and plans to focus on football in high school.

“What I do with football and baseball helps out a lot with my school work. I think participating in sports increases mental focus and helps me process different school subjects. Playing sports has definitely inspired me to do more and expect more from myself in everything.”

Harrison also volunteers at Beacon College and assists with service projects for the Golden Triangle Rotary Club.

Parent tip: Kerrie Joe Outlaw is Harrison’s mother. She talks about the benefits of her son being involved in sports and volunteer work.

“Being outside, moving and maintaining a healthy balance is as important as good grades,” she said. “People say they enjoy my children because of their attitudes. They always exhibit sportsmanship and respect for other players. I think it’s also important for them to give back to their community.”

Kali Walker, 12, is a student at First Academy-Leesburg. She participates on the school’s volleyball and track and field teams. She is also a dancer with Dance Dynamix in Leesburg and enjoys competitive horseback riding.

“Doing all this not only helps me keep fit; it keeps me focused on my grades so I can play sports,” she said.

Parent tip: Kali’s father Sheldon Walker is head football coach for First Academy-Leesburg. He says it’s beneficial for Kali to be involved with numerous activities.

“Though it can be a financial burden for parents, they need to let kids have the opportunity to try as many things as possible, but at the same time, keep things streamlined enough to have a healthy home life. Take the time to decide why they are doing this activity.”

Matthew Spiker, 16, is active in sports. A senior at Tavares High School, he plays tennis and is on the swim team.

“I think it helps you manage your time better and helps you stay fit. I believe I’ve learned how to work with others, have better communication skills and how to support others. Doing team activities gives me stronger social skills and more confidence in my own abilities so I have a better self-image.”

Parent tip: Samantha Spiker is the mother of Matthew.

“The biggest benefit for parents and children who participate in sports are the lessons learned about socializing in a different environment. They meet people with different personalities which helps prepare them for what they’ll deal with later in life.”

McKenzie O’Hara is a Eustis High School graduate who took classes at Lake-Sumter State College during her sophomore year. In December, she will graduate from Southeastern University in Lakeland with a degree in marketing. She feels that being a high school volleyball player played an instrumental role in her academic success.
“My coaches were adamant that school came first and that participating in the sport was a privilege. I felt that way too. I always felt like practice was a way to release stress and tension. I feel having sports in my life was a blessing. There are so many opportunities to get into trouble, but I didn’t have those opportunities because I had to go to practice or travel to a tournament. It was awesome!”

B.E. Thompson is a lifelong Eustis resident and currently serves as director of development for LifeStream Behavioral Center. He says participating in local activities is beneficial for both physical well-being and mental development.
“I was involved in YMCA sports, but I think there’s also value in taking part in community activities like Boy Scouts, Boys and Girls Clubs and even the town’s festivals and celebrations at an early age,” he said. “It helps kids become well-rounded adults who have a strong sense of belonging to the community, and that keeps them coming back home after college instead of moving away.”

Tips For Parents

• Kids emulate parents; you exercise, they exercise.
• Plan fun family activities that encourage moving, such as hiking, swimming or tennis.
• Make the family room the exercise room with videos that encourage movement.
• If you enjoy binge watching shows as a family, plan outdoor games between shows.
• Support and encour age your students’ extracurricular activi- ties at school. Celebrate small victories with as much enthusiasm as bigger victories.
• Teach children to win with sportsmanship and accept loss as part of the game.
• Use this time to help your child develop essential life skills like problem solving, con- flict resolution, a de- sire to do his or her personal best and the tolerance to help and encourage all team members.