For student athletes the number one focus is school, but another is their specific sport. Their daily lives can be busy without very much time for anything else.

Volleyball player Kauionalani Kekuawela said, “ It’s hard to balance the work load of school and volleyball. Sometimes it is very challenging, but I’ve learned that focus and organization are the keys to success.”

High school sports can be time-consuming and challenging, but it is one way for students to learn more about themselves.

Air riflery champion Sara Tashima said, “ Through sports I’ve learned responsibility and teamwork. I am responsible for maintaining good grades and showing up to practice on time. As for teamwork, I must work together with my team to become true winners.”

Missy Moore, high school and club soccer coach, agreed. “I think being a student athlete is very beneficial. It teaches them discipline for their training and for their school work.”

Playing a sport doesn’t only help the student with character it also helps players learn about their physical bodies and how to live a healthy life.

Volleyball player Maria Leineweber said, “ High school sports has taught me the right eating habits and how to take care of my body. Hopefully, I will gather what I’ve learned and use it.”

Still, not all student athletes succeed with the work load and stresses of their sports. Although athletes drive themselves to practice and work hard, not all carry those traits over to school work.

Kekuawela said, “ It is really hard work to keep my grades up. I try to always focus and push myself to my full capability and hope that I come out successful.”

These days, many student athletes travel to tournaments across the mainland, where they are being scouted by college coaches. For these, sports is their “ride” to college.

Leineweber said, “ When we travel we miss a lot of school, but it’s a great opportunity to be seen by scouts so that hopefully I can get a scholarship to play volleyball in college.”

High school sports is also a means to be involved with other players outside school and learn other non-academic values.

Moore said, “Being an athlete helps with work ethic, discipline and the ability to get along with others. With playing in a team environment you have to adapt to other personalities. These traits will help tremendously in their futures.”