On Monday, August 24, the Philadelphia Catholic League announced that there would be no fall sports in any of the seventeen Archdiocesan high schools in the Philadelphia area.  Students and parents citywide are devastated by this decision.  To students, sports are more than just a game.  

    Sports are an outlet.  Students use these teams as a way to relieve stress and recollect themselves after a day of hard work in the classroom.  Practices and games serve as a way for students to get a break from the world of school and family life and simply have a good time with their coaches and teammates.  Without this escape, how will students release built-up tensions that may be keeping them from performing at their best in the classroom?  How will they calm their nerves in order to lead a safe and balanced social life?  Mental health is extremely important and many high school students use sports as an outlet for relief and stability.

    Sports are a driving factor in the education of many students.  The thought of being kicked off of a team due to unsatisfactory grades is what may motivate a student to push themselves to the best of their ability in school.  Playing on the field is a privilege that many students have to work very hard for, which leads them to receive a better education.  In a school system without fall sports teams, what will motivate student athletes to try their hardest and receive the greatest education available to them?

    Sports are a way for students to make friends who share an interest with them.  While students can make friends in a classroom setting, it is much easier to bond with someone who finds gratification in the same hobby as the student, such as football or soccer. 

    The PCL’s decision to cancel all fall sports seasons will negatively affect student athletes all throughout the city of Philadelphia.  Students need sports in order to maintain healthy mental states, satisfactory grades, and to make and preserve important friendships.