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Editorials
Needed: high standards
In recent weeks much has been said about the need for more attention to the academic achievement of college students on athletic scholarships. It is a move which is long overdue.
Allowing students to play their way through college without actually putting much, if any effort into academics does no one any good — least of all the student, who leaves college to perhaps make big money for a few short years but then finds himself woefully unprepared for life after professional sports.
The emphasis on academics is a good step. It should, however, begin long before the student-athlete ever receives a college scholarship. Emphasis on the importance of academics should begin when children first begin school. Only then will they learn to see athletics in the proper perspective: as a healthy outlet which has a place along with academics in their lives. It should never replace academics as the primary focus of their efforts, however.
In this regard, Rappahannock is fortunate. There is not the overwhelming pressure on high school student-athletes to win, win, win. Certainly, winning is important. But, it’s not the only thing.
Sports seem to be put in a more healthy perspective at Rappahannock High School than at many larger schools. That’s good for the school and good for the students. It allows them to enjoy their athletic achievements, as well as pursue the academic curriculum which will, after all, be the most important legacy of their school years.
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