The Importance of Middle School Athletics

From enhancing physical endurance to fostering camaraderie, middle school athletics programs provide a vital avenue for students of all backgrounds to explore their athletic passions. Participation in student activities is truly a learning experience and an enhancement of the regular school day. National studies and research indicate that participation in activities, like athletics, promotes citizenship and increases attendance for student athletes.  Additionally, students involved in activities have higher grade point averages than nonparticipants; making participation in school activities is one of the most accurate predictors of success after college.

Growing Students Beyond the Classroom

Whitman Athletic Coordinator, Maria Lujan-Gonzales, believes that middle school athletics are incredibly important for a variety of reasons. They offer a unique opportunity for students to develop essential life skills while having fun and making friends. Middle school athletics offer a well-rounded experience that can have a lasting positive impact on young people’s lives by providing a supportive environment for growth, development, and learning. She feels her role as Athletic Coordinator is both rewarding and impactful. It offers a unique opportunity to positively influence young lives and contribute to their overall development. “As a coordinator, I make sure the athletes are safe, in good academic standing, and have everything they need for their successful participation.” 

When Whitman School Counselor and Cross Country Coach, Cara Shirley, first heard that middle school athletics were coming to FCPS her first thought was, “What took so long!” As a counselor, Coach Shirley has always lauded sports and physical activity as positive ways to improve mental health for both children and adults. Engagement in physical activity has been shown to help children develop self-esteem and confidence as well as teaching resilience and perseverance. She loves being a coach because she sees it as another opportunity to help kids develop those essential life skills that we don’t always have enough time to nurture during the school day. It’s also so fun watching the kids improve, gain confidence, and celebrate each other’s accomplishments! 

Student Perspectives

Our Wildcats are also excited about the opportunity to participate in middle school athletics.  8th grader Austen A. feels like middle school athletics are important because it gives students a social group that has similar interests and fosters friendship. She also appreciates that sports let you participate in an activity that you love outside of the classroom. She believes that sports “help when you get into high school because they make those sports more important and when you do it in middle school you can get better and be prepared.”

Similarly, 7th grader Dillon O. thinks that athletics help you with friendships and with daily tasks. “Sports isn't just running around playing a game, it's a culture,” he states. “Does Messi just walk off the field after winning the world cup, NO!! He celebrates with his teammates and his family. Argentina was filled with fans celebrating the victory.” Dillon also believes that athletics don't just help with endurance and health, they help you make friends; which is a big reason why he loves to play sports.

Whitman’s Fall Cross Country season is off to a great start this year, and continues their competitions through October.  Visit our Whitman Athletics website page to learn more.