When you hear about a senior quitting a sport they’ve practiced for years, it’s easy to say that it’s their choice, that they shouldn’t do it if they won’t enjoy it—YOLO, right?
Maybe. Perhaps, if you’re exceptionally tied up with school or other duties and simply can’t spare any time on your sport, it makes sense to pass it up for the sake of your sanity. But in most cases, the sport you know and love is too good to give up on. Seniors should stick with the sports they’ve done for years rather than quit at the end.
Just consider the benefits of partaking in a sport. You develop a strong group of friends; it’s a fun way to stay in shape; continuing to play through the end of high school looks good for colleges, and you can look back in 20 years and take pride in the fact that you were a student athlete.
Admittedly, there is the argument that senior year should be relaxing and fun. After all, it is the year for preparing for college, and seniors should be spending time with their friends during their final year together.
But more important is the thrill and challenge of participating in a sport. Exercise is important enough as it is; it keeps you in shape and releases endorphins that make you feel good. But add on the benefits of a competitive activity and you get mental challenge, the excitement of facing off against rivalry, and relationships to last a lifetime.
Furthermore, the underlying sense of honor associated with participating in a sport your senior year isn’t something to be overlooked. An athlete gains recognition and respect each consecutive year they participate in their sport, so by the time they reach senior year, they are in a position of both high esteem and responsibility.
Following through with a sport through your final year is something to be admired, and colleges pay attention to that display of perseverance. More importantly, the responsibility that comes with it makes a senior an important member of the team, contributing their experience and their leadership and helping the younger players grow and improve. In short, it shows character to routinely go out for a sport each year.
So, seniors, what is there to lose by sticking it out another year? Sure, it may be a small hassle to take the time out of your day for practice. But the fun and memories that you gain during the time you spend more than make up for that miniscule drawback, and besides, your fellow underclassmen athletes need your companionship, leadership, and guidance. Don’t quit just because you think you’ll have more fun without your sport. It’s the camaraderie, the challenge, and the honor that really matter.