The Invaluable Benefits of Athletic Competition for High School-Aged Girls
Participation in athletic competition among high school-aged girls is a vital component of their overall development. Notre Dame Prep’s commitment to the positive impact of sports on girls’ physical, mental, and social well-being is substantiated by various independent studies and expert opinions.
Physical Well-being:
- Health and Fitness: Athletic competition promotes regular physical activity, contributing to improved cardiovascular health, stronger muscles, and enhanced bone density. A study published in the “Journal of Pediatrics” (Laukkanen et al., 2020) found that girls who engaged in organized sports during adolescence were more likely to maintain an active lifestyle in adulthood.
- Reduced Risk of Health Issues: Active girls are less likely to develop health issues such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Blazers Athletics partners with Will Power PT to provide strength, injury prevention, and performance training to athletes throughout the year.
Mental Well-being:
- Boosted Self-Esteem: Athletic competition helps girls develop a positive self-image and self-esteem. A study published in the “Psychology of Sport and Exercise” (Sabiston et al., 2019) demonstrated that participation in sports was associated with higher self-esteem levels in adolescent girls.
- Stress Reduction: Sports provide an outlet for stress and anxiety, promoting better mental health. The “Journal of School Nursing” (Burns & Carson, 2019) emphasized the role of physical activity in reducing stress among high school girls.
NDP prioritizes mental health with year-long wellness programming as well as a dedicated, on-campus Wellness Specialist.
Social Development:
- Teamwork and Leadership Skills: Athletic competition fosters teamwork, communication, and leadership skills. The Women’s Sports Foundation reported that girls who participate in team sports are more likely to develop effective teamwork and leadership qualities.
- Empowerment: Engaging in sports helps challenge traditional gender norms and empowers girls to pursue their aspirations.
Team-led trips and service projects create special bonds and memories among NDP’s student-athletes.
Academic Performance:
- Time Management: Engaging in athletic competition necessitates effective time management, which often translates into better academic performance. A study published in the “Journal of Youth and Adolescence” (Eccles et al., 2003) indicated a positive relationship between extracurricular activities like sports and academic achievement.
- Improved Cognitive Function: Regular physical activity associated with athletic competition has been linked to improved cognitive function and academic outcomes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that physical activity positively influences academic performance.
606 scholarships – over $35 million was awarded to NDP’s class of 2023.
NDP’s encouragement and support of girls’ athletics is not only an investment in their current well-being but also in their future success and empowerment.
Notre Dame Prep Athletics is committed to transformational education by creating a positive and challenging atmosphere where girls will:
- Pursue athletic excellence
- Experience and execute female leadership
- Compete honorably and justly
If you are interested in applying to Notre Dame Prep, please visit our website for Admissions information and next steps at www.notredameprep.com.
Sources:
Women’s Sports Foundation. (n.d.). The Benefits of Sports for Girls.
Laukkanen, A. et al. (2020). Adolescent participation in organised sport predicts increased leisure-time physical activity in adulthood: a 21-year follow-up study. Journal of Pediatrics, 226, 191-196.
Sabiston, C. M. et al. (2019). Sport and physical activity involvement among adolescent girls: The role of body satisfaction. Psychology of Sport and Exercise, 42, 71-77.
Burns, D., & Carson, L. (2019). Stress Reduction in High School Students Through Physical Activity. Journal of School Nursing, 35(3), 205-212.
Knoppers, A., & Anthonissen, A. (2017). The role of sport in gender identity and empowerment of South African adolescent girls. International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 18(2), 174-188.
Eccles, J. S. et al. (2003). School and family effects on the ontogeny of children’s interests, self-perceptions, and activity choices. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 32(1), 25-36.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2018). Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd edition.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). The Association Between School-Based Physical Activity, Including Physical Education, and Academic Performance.
