A small but growing number of parents and administrators have been voicing concerns that athletics have taken precedence over school work, and wish to have them removed. This controversial opinion is actually gaining traction with some people, and it would be a shame if it actually found its way to the table. There are a number of reasons that high school athletics are necessary, and should not be banned.

One of the biggest reasons that high school athletics should not be banned is because of the scholarship potential. Many kids end up going to college and getting it paid for thanks to their athletic ability. This is an avenue that would be completely eliminated if high school athletics were banned. College athletics are a huge source of financial aid scholarships in our Country, and we need that resource for our kids.

Another important reason that high school athletics should not be banned is because it allows our children to learn teamwork. Playing for a high school sports team is a very educational experience in and of itself. It teaches the participants about working together, overcoming problems and obstacles, and determination. These are all skills that can only help our students succeed in life after school. No book can teach these lessons, and high school athletics fills that role for many students.

School budgets is yet another reason for high school athletics to continue. They are shrinking every single year with the economy being so bad, and the revenue generated from the athletic department is as important and vital as any other. The elimination of sports in high school would eliminate any chance of money generated by those teams. This money is ultimately a valuable reason to keep high school athletics.

Finally, high school athletics are as much a part of the fabric of high school as the prom, homecoming, and even other school activities such as student government, French club, chorus, and other such programs. Eliminating one would almost demand the elimination of the others, and nobody thinks that is such a great idea. These programs should instead be considered privileges that our high school students must earn the right to participate in. If they slip with their grades, then they should lose that privilege.

These rules are in place in the vast majority of high schools across our great nation. The schools that do not take the initiative to implement these requirements are the problem in the high school athletics argument, and should be made to enforce a standard of performance in the classroom.

Parents also should take a more active role in ensuring that their kids are performing in the classroom. No child should be allowed to skim along through their course work, and quarterback the football team on Friday nights. If they are not putting out the grades, then they are not allowed to play on the field or courts. It really should be that simple, and it is at the vast majority of the high schools across America.

Banning high school athletics outright is an outrageous and silly option. All we really need is stronger rules about participation. A school with no athletic department would suffer in all the ways listed above, as well as many others. Lets keep athletics a vital and strong part of our high school communities!