How Sports Contribute to Academic Success by Jordan

How Sports Contribute to Academic Success by Jordan - June 2024 Scholarship Essay

Playing soccer has been one of the most educating experiences, and has brought me so much success academically. Growing up I was forced to play soccer by my parents, and now I can’t imagine life without it. Soccer has taught me many things that a textbook or lecture couldn't. It has taught me teamwork, and perseverance. I learned how to accept defeat, and how to turn something negative into fuel to do better and work harder. Many of the same lessons I learn on the field can be applied in the classroom.

Soccer has also brought many positive mentors into my life. Coaches throughout the years taught me new ideas, lessons, and new perspectives on the game. They helped me grow and supported me throughout my life: from elementary to now college. This last year I was going to stay home where it is comfortable and take a gap year while I make money for future schooling. However, when my soccer coach heard this he helped me branch out. My coach has always pushed us academically, and our team came 2nd in the conference for the highest GPAs. My coach told me that it is okay to step out of my comfort zone and experience new things. He helped me get in contact with college coaches from other states and is the reason I am playing college soccer today.

Without soccer, I wouldn’t have had the extra money from scholarships to go to school. Before I got offered soccer scholarships I was hesitant to go to college not only because of the expenses but also, because of how discouraging it was. However, soccer brought me scholarships, and made me determined academically. It makes me feel confident that I could earn money for school, as it was motivation. It is my duty to make sure I keep up my grades and keep up my skills in soccer, and that makes me proud. Soccer is the reason for my success today.