Here's why you should join St Paul's Lions on the field and court!

By A. Mourabet

When it comes to joining a sports team at school, it can be intimidating especially if it’s your first time. Yet I assure you it will be one of the best choices you will make and here are the reasons for this: 

1. Team Bonding 
If your main concern is the fact that you are not an athletic person and therefore people will judge you for it, don’t keep it from joining a sports club. Firstly, this conception that many people have before becoming a member of a team that every player is outstandingly skilful is nonsense. Moreover, there is so much more to a club than actually exercising. You will most likely make friends with people from different age groups, people you never thought you would talk to and perhaps even with those from your class that you’re not necessarily close to. You become a part of a family, where you will struggle and win together, and, more importantly, share memories with each other!

2. You don’t actually notice how much exercise you have done 
The mere fact that you are exercising with friends will inevitably make you forget about the hard part of exercising. Therefore if you hate heading to the gym for whatever reason, this might be the best option for you! Another aspect you must be taking into consideration is your self-esteem. As you exercise, you will start gaining more confidence since you’ve learnt new physical and even social skills by participating in a sports team. 

3. Fulfilment 
Evidently, joining a sports team means commitment but it also gives you an opportunity to focus and it encourages you to set new goals. Striving for the same goal collaboratively always results in a better team spirit and will give you a rewarding feeling every time you succeed. Also, if you are not getting good results at school, for example, this will still boost your confidence. 

4. It looks good on college applications 
It is evident that you shouldn’t join a club solely due to this reason; however, it is an upside and will definitely help you in your college applications. When trying to find an extracurricular activity in which you benefit from and, simultaneously, are amused by, a sports team is probably the best idea. Universities give great value to those who not only contribute to their school community but also who work together as a team and have leadership skills. 

5. Managing stress 
As aforementioned, the sports club gives you another thing to think about and will serve as a ‘refuge’ when you are feeling stressed due to school responsibilities.  
 
I hope this was helpful and, obviously, if you're not a ‘sports person’, I am sure you will find something that you enjoy and look forward to even if it is not related to sports!