While sitting at a girls’ volleyball game on their senior night, I noticed that there was hardly anyone there. And honestly, I’m not surprised, because I didn’t even know there was a game that night until about a week ago. The student section at football games is packed; a volleyball game’s student section is a mere shadow of it. Why aren’t other sports talked about as much as others? As an athlete myself, I know the hard work and dedication it takes to be a student-athlete, and the countless hours it takes. It means a lot to have people come and support you.
Football is arguably the most popular sport in the conference, if not the entire state. It is understandable why it is hyped up so much, but many other sports deserve attention, too. It’s always great to go to the football games, and it’s always sad when the season ends and those student section highs disappear. But do they have to? Wouldn’t it be cool if other sports games were treated like the football games? Imagine having that same feeling throughout the whole year, rather than being limited to August, September, or October.
Sports other than football are ignored by almost everyone. If we stop ignoring and instead promote, it would provide tons of benefits for everyone in the school community. What message does an empty bleacher send to a senior who has dedicated four years of their life, like the early mornings, late practices, and sacrificing weekends for their team? It makes them think that their commitment and their sport are less valuable. The lack of attendance isn’t just a missed party for the fans; it is a profound lack of validation for our peers who pour their hearts into competing for our school.
Not only this, but the whole school is missing out on the other sports we have at Metea. Sports like volleyball, tennis, basketball, and soccer offer unique, high-energy, and equally exciting entertainment that showcases the diverse range of talent we have at Metea Valley.
If students started showing up to other sporting events, it would provide many benefits for student-athletes. For starters, I know what it is like to play in front of a home crowd. Having a loud, supportive crowd is truly a home-field advantage that can motivate an athlete. And that increased attendance and media buzz boost the visibility of athletes who hope to play at the college level, creating more opportunities for scholarships and recruitment.
Now imagine that the energy of a Friday night football game extends to a Tuesday night volleyball game or a weekend swimming meet. That energy creates a much more vibrant, engaged, and unified Metea culture
Overall, the benefits of attending other sports games outweigh the negatives tenfold. It promotes our own athletes, raises school spirit, and is just plain fun. If you’re ever bored, go watch one of the many sports that are offered here at Metea. Hang out with your friends in the bleachers while watching an exciting game, cheer on our athletes, and support your fellow mustangs!
