Playing sports at school is a great way for students new to America to make friends and learn new skills. Here's how they can join teams and what they need to know:
How to Join School Sports:
Sign-Ups: Schools have certain times when students can sign up for each sport. Ask the school office about sign-ups. Check the school website or ask physical education teachers.
Tryouts:
Most school sports teams hold tryouts, where students show their skills to see if they can join the team
In middle school, some sports let everyone join (like track)
For some sports, not all students who try out will make the team
Encourage your child to try sports they enjoy
Talking to Coaches:
Stay in contact with coaches and athletic directors. They can provide important information about schedules, practices, and requirements.
Check the school websites for schedules.
What Students Need to Play Sports
Your child must meet eligibility requirements for your child to play sports. Contact your student’s guidance counselor if you need help. They can help with physicals or understanding health insurance requirements.
Academic standing: Students must keep good grades to play sports.
Attendance: Students must attend school regularly.
Physical exam: Students need a doctor to check that they are healthy enough to play.
Some schools offer low-cost or free health checks
Parental consent: Parents must sign a permission form for students to play sports.
Your child needs health insurance to play sports at school.
The school needs to know your child can get medical care if they get hurt.
You may need to show the school your insurance card or papers.
Some schools offer special sports insurance you can buy just for when your child plays sports. This special insurance may cost less than regular insurance.
Ask the school office or your child's coach about insurance options if you need help.
Residency: Some school districts have residency requirements. You must live in the right area for the school.
Age Limits: There are usually age limits on sports. This is determined by the sport and the grade level.
Code of Conduct: Students must follow the rules in the Student Code of Conduct.
Use of illegal substances: Students cannot use tobacco, alcohol, or drugs at school or at any school event. If they do, they might have to leave the team. There may also be school consequences.
Equipment:
Some sports need special equipment, such as cleats, pads, or rackets. You may have to provide it.
Schools may provide some equipment, or you may need to buy it.
They may also be able to help your student if you cannot afford the equipment.
Types of Sports: There are lots of choices available. Most have boys’ and girls’ teams.
Team Sports:
Basketball, soccer, volleyball, football, baseball (softball), and more.
Individual Sports:
Track and field, cross-country, swimming, tennis, and more.
Intramural Sports: These are recreational sports played within the school.
Boys: Football, Cross Country, Soccer, Golf
Girls: Volleyball, Cross Country, Soccer, Field Hockey, Golf
Co-Ed: Cheerleading
Boys: Basketball, Wrestling, Ice Hockey, Swimming
Girls: Basketball, Wrestling, Ice Hockey, Swimming
Co-Ed: Indoor Track and Field
Boys: Baseball, Track and Field, Tennis, Lacrosse, Golf
Girls: Softball, Track and Field, Tennis, Lacrosse, Golf
Co-Ed: Some schools offer co-ed soccer, volleyball, and track events.
Learn English: Sports help students practice English with friends
Make friends: Being on a team helps students feel like they belong
Stay healthy: Sports keep students active and healthy
Share cultures: Students can share their culture with their friends. They can also learn about American culture
Build character: Sports teach teamwork and hard work
College chances: Playing sports can help with college applications
Feeling confident: Doing well in sports helps students feel good about themselves