Imagine you finally get off a long day of school at 3:40, just to go to practice until 7:00. Now imagine this the majority of the year. Being a multi-sport athlete takes time, commitment, and passion. Many students across the US play one or more sports in one school year. At our school we have many multi-sport athletes. I had a chance to interview some of them on their thoughts about being a multi-sport athlete.

First, I interviewed Senior Lillyanna Boulware, a multi-talented athlete who throughout her high school career has played volleyball, basketball, flag football, and softball. I asked her when she decided to play multiple sports she told me “I decided after my sister who graduated last year, her doing multiple sports that kept her busy. I thought it would be good for me to do the same so I could keep in track with school and stay busy, so I don’t do anything bad.” Playing multiple sports helps you stay disciplined and motivates you to do good in school since you must have a C average to take part in sports. Sports are an effective way to spend your time and distract yourself. Playing multiple sports helps even more because you hold yourself to a higher standard of dedication to all your sports.

I then interviewed Sophomore Jack Nielson, a multi-sport athlete that focuses on aquatic sports which are water polo and swim. When I asked him if he recommended playing multiple sports he said, “Maybe not multiple but I definitely recommend playing a sport it helps with leadership and social skills.” Even though playing multiple sports isn’t that crucial, playing one sport is highly encouraged because it helps you build skills, you’ll need in life. In many sports, especially team sports, you can learn how to be a better communicator which helps with your everyday life.

I also had a chance to interview West High Alumni of Class of 24’ Emma Casados. During her athletic career she played soccer, softball, and volleyball. After she graduated, she was the assistant coach for girls’ soccer and Frosh coach for girls’ softball. I asked her how did playing multiple sports throughout high school help after you graduated, she replied, “Playing multiple sports taught me time management, teamwork, and perseverance. These skills helped me in college by allowing me to balance academics and extra curriculars, collaborate effectively with others, and overcome challenges.” Being a multi-sport athlete has many benefits even after graduation. Even though it’s a time and financial investment at the moment to play multiple sports, they teach you lifelong skills.

Even though it is difficult playing multiple sports it can be incredibly challenging and with persistence it is possible. These athletes have all been successful through playing multiple sports because not only does it help them physically it also helps them with basic life skills. Achieving all this through a sport is very impressive cause not only are they physically demanding but also mentally demanding. At the end this hard work pays off because you can’t put a price tag on gaining skills while doing something you love.