The youth of America have a very volatile and unique lifestyle and if physical activities were incorporated in their lives they could benefit psychologically, socially, and physically in, a somewhat, drastic result. I am here to inform you of the positive impact that sports can have on students and the youths of America.

Sports can be a gateway to social change. For example, according to the University of Maryland's National Youth Survey and civil engagement, the longer a teen plays a sport the greater attachment they have to their community. The research conducted show that 66% of teens that participate in a sport are more active in the community opposed to the 44% that do not despite there being multiple factors. It's still staggering that sports are a major factor in participating in an active community (Merkel). Another social positive of sports is that it can be used for intervention in international peace building activities (Merkel). Organized sports in the Middle East have provided you with positive and constructive experiences despite their current situation.

Sports have a substantial, although a lesser known, psychological effect. Depending on the level of physical activity you participate in, sports can cause a reduction of suicidal thoughts and tendencies in teens (Psychological). Finding a sport that you truly enjoy and participate in it regularly causes a sense of happiness and lessen the risk of sadness as well as depression (Psychological). Many professional athletes are rarely depressed, although there are multiple factors for that, it is mostly because they are doing what they love for a living.

Sports also, of course, provides physical and lifelong positives. Besides student athletes being more active, they also are more likely to pursue other positive lifestyle choices. For example, studies show that a student that is more active is more likely to eat more fruit and vegetables (Davis). Participating in sports can also be a deterrent for other illegal or malicious behavior. Studies in 2000 show that athletes are less likely to engage in smoking and other illicit drug taking, mainly because of their athletic affiliation (Davis).

Sports aren’t just things people do for no reason, participating in sports can improve a volatile situation, create a connection with peers, decrease suicidal tendencies, and can ultimately alter the shape of a whole community. Many people do not think about the many positives of sports, and that what makes it such a great thing; you participate and have fun without thinking about the positives. Finding a sport you enjoy can bring you multiple benefits while having fun doing what you’re doing making the youths more productive in a community and have a prosperous lifestyle.