The Relationship Between Academic Performance and Participation in Sports

Background: Some research has theorized that physical activity and fitness is linked to greater cognitive performance and overall mental/physical wellbeing. The purpose of this study is to examine if participating in sports influences academic performance in college students. Method: Undergraduate students at a university in the northeast were recruited to participate in a cross-sectional study exploring their college experiences. An online survey format was used to collect data focused on college students' participation in sports and how sports may influence their academic success. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the sample. Frequencies, chi-square analysis and multivariate regression were used to explore the relationship among the variables. Results: There was no statistical significance between participants and a change in their grade point average. However, students who participated in lacrosse had a significant change in their GPA. Lacrosse had a negative impact on the student’s GPA, so as one participates in lacrosse their GPA goes down. Discussion: Students who participated in sports at the college level may have differing GPAs because of the scrutiny or pressure from coaches and the NCAA that require a certain GPA for student athletes. Therefore, extra help such as tutoring is given to these athletes to improve their academic performances. Conclusion: There is a decrease in academic performance among college students when they participate in Lacrosse. Nevertheless, participating in sports in college should still be encouraged because with positive reinforcement.