Most student athletes would say that their sport holds importance in their lives because it provides them physical activity, team experiences, and an escape from the stress of school and social life. But the importance lies in more than these things for student athletes in the Liberty community. And because of this, we need to start rethinking the way we act at sports events.

   For some students, becoming involved in sports is the way they find their place. For Freshman Ethan Le, joining the boy’s tennis team helped him meet new people and become comfortable with the Liberty environment.

   For others, becoming involved in sports is a way to be recognized for outstanding achievement like Sophomore Nate Solly who recently was awarded the Century Link Student Athlete of the Week award that brought Century Link Field’s VP and a Sea Gal to lunch with a $1000 grant for our school.

   Some students even use sports as a way to determine their future plans. Hannah van Amen was recently recruited by St. Martin’s University in Lacey, WA where she plans to continue her soccer career while studying.

   What I urge everyone to remember is the value of sports to each participant. Sports are not always just an extra-curricular activity, and sports events don’t serve only as entertainment. Keep this in mind the next time you’re tempted to shout negative comments at a player or team during a sports event. You never know how important that sport is to the player your shouts are directed at.