Swami Hinojosa
Editor-in-Chief
As college students, we are often burdened by many academic responsibilities that can be overwhelming and leave us with little time for anything else. However, it is essential to acknowledge the value of sports in our lives. Participating in physical activities can help us stay fit and healthy. It also plays a vital role in our personal growth and overall well-being.
Broward College offers intramural sports on each campus, and North Campus Student Life Director, Stefan Dacosta expressed excitement about students participation in intramural sports. The campus offers five sports: soccer, basketball, flag football, pickleball, and tennis.
Student Life provides all the necessary equipment to ensure a sportive environment. Since the COVID lockdown, the school has implemented more student health and happiness activities. The goal is to create an environment in which playing sports and engaging in physical activities is essential and encouraged.
Whether we join a varsity team, participate in intramural sports, or simply go for a run, engaging in sports activities can help us develop essential life skills like teamwork, leadership, and time management. Additionally, it provides us with a much-needed break from the rigors of academic life, allowing us to de-stress and recharge our batteries. Sports should be integral to our university experience and reap its many benefits. However, remember that playing sports is not just about exercising. It can help us improve our mental, physical, and emotional health in numerous ways.
Playing sports can bring numerous benefits, including improving physical health by enhancing cardiovascular fitness, promoting muscle strength, and helping maintain healthy body weight. Additionally, sports benefit our emotional well-being by releasing endorphins, natural pain relievers that improve mood and promote well-being. College students, who often experience academic stress, can benefit immensely from sports, as it can be an essential coping mechanism to maintain mental balance. Contrary to popular belief, playing sports does not distract from studies but can positively impact academic performance. Research indicates regular exercise improves concentration, memory, and decision-making, ultimately improving academic performance.
Participating in sports activities can encourage the formation of social connections and teamwork skills. One of the benefits of playing sports is that students learn to cooperate, communicate effectively, and face challenges collectively over time. These skills are highly transferable to professional life and can be particularly valuable to employers.
Sport is a powerful tool to promote motivation and personal improvement. Setting goals, working towards them, and experiencing progress over time helps build confidence and resilience. These are crucial elements to face academic and personal challenges during college life.
“New experiences are something you will gain from any college you go to, and Student Life provides the opportunities for these experiences to our students. Intramural Sports is a perfect example of how we encourage students to be healthy but at the same time challenge themselves while meeting new people. It is important to your health to be outside, even just for a little bit. These benefits are why Student Life is focused on bringing these sports to the campus. COVID is over and it is time for everyone to be comfortable with being active again and making new connections,” said Stefan Dacosta, North Campus Student Life Director.
College life is a time of immense potential, and sports can serve as a valuable companion on your journey of self-discovery. With an open mind and a willingness to explore new passions, you can cultivate a healthy lifestyle that will serve you well during and beyond your academic years. So come on, take the first step, and join us in embracing the world of sports.
