1 minute read
Debunking stereotypes
BY JADEN GERVACIO
THE MIRROR STAFF
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When it comes to high school sports and student athletes, various myths and misconceptions circulate the halls. It’s crucial to separate stereotypes from facts.
MYTH: You have to be tall to be good at volleyball
FACT: This is completely false. Even though height can be beneficial for players, students shouldn’t doubt themselves because they aren’t as tall as others. If the team as a whole is motivated and determined enough, then they can easily increase their vertical reach and make up for shorter heights. In our girls varsity volleyball team, 5-foot-3 opposite hitter Bella Mokhtari is tasked with leading her team on offense. Since her determination for the sport is unmatched, her vertical reach is high enough to compete with 5-foot-8 competitors.
MYTH: Football players are bullies
FACT: Every football player has a lot of responsibilities on the field and in school. Coaches expect players to be role models to others by exemplifying respect and kindness. While there are exceptions depending on the person, overall, this is a false stereotype perpetuated by the media.
MYTH: Tennis players are entitled jerks
FACT: There are a handful of professional players who think they are above everyone else, and constantly argue with judges until they get their way. However, the majority of tennis players, like Roger Federer for exam athletes, some athletes have many academic achievements. A number of professional athletes graduated from top tier colleges. Jeremy Lin, a former NBA player, graduated from Harvard.
MYTH: Student athletes are all extroverts
FACT: Although athletes are some of the most well-known faces at school, this doesn’t mean that they are extroverts. While there are many athletes who love to interact with
MYTH: Student athletes plan to incorporate sports into their careers
FACT: Not every student athlete plans on pursuing a career in sports. Many of these students are interested in math, science, history, art and various other fields. However, there are some dedicated athletes who aspire to play their sport professionally and work hard everyday to achieve their goal.
