OVERVIEW

There exists much research on athletics and college attendance. Most of it indicates a positive relationship in sport participation and academic achievement. The studies typically show that the non-athlete and the athlete are equal in academic success. This study compares white, black, and Hispanic students in terms of their participation in high school varsity sports and their attendance in college.

DESIGN

The study is secondary analysis of a national survey of American male high school students conducted by the National Center for Educational Statistics. A pool of 11,995 seniors participated in 1980, with a follow up in 1982. A total of 1100 public and private schools were included.

FINDINGS

In the study, forty-six percent of whites, fifty-two percent of blacks and forty-six percent of Hispanics participated in sports on the varsity level. Upon placing three control variables on the pool of participators—social status, parental relations and cognitive development—the study determined the effect of involvement in sports and college attendance. A larger percentage of the students who participated in sports went to college than non-athletes.

CONCLUSION

This study supports earlier studies illustrating a positive relationship between high school athletic involvement and academic success. Thus, the athletic role enhances the academic role.

IMPLICATIONS

• As indicated, there is positive correlation between academics and athletics. Knowing this will enhance the importance and use of athletics in urban work.
• It is likely that a well-run athletic program can lead to greater dedication in other aspects of the youth organization.

Rob Zarges cCYS