HS sports vs non- HS sports

[serviceaboveAll]

I’m looking for some input from you wise ones. DD just started HS and has mentioned she is interested in USNA. She knows sports, leadership, grades & community service are all critical. Her HS does not have gymnastics and she has been doing it at the YMCA since she was a toddler. Covid hit and our local Y closed the doors on the program bc of the valuable space it took up ( valid point...sad but I get it). I looked into other programs: private gyms were 3x as much and we cannot afford that VS. a YMCA over the state line. A commute but doable ( still cheaper than private gyms). DD joined a fall HS sports team and plans on a spring HS sport bc she knows importance of it for USNA. She is still going to Y gymnastics ( when she can), working, student gov’t, model UN, church volunteer. I’m worried she’s going to have to give up one of the athletics at some point. She is new to both the HS sports she’s participating in so not banking on her earning scholarship even captain...my magic 8ball isn’t working at the moment (lol). “IF” she had to focus on 1 or the other ( non-high school YMCA gymnastics in another state VS high school sport but not excelling in it)...which would be better? I know there is no right magical answer, but interested in feedback. TIA

 

[A1Janitor]

I would prefer strength in gymnastics and excelling with commitment - possible leadership? - over sitting the bench in a new sport as a beginner. With her resume.

I’m just a father - I’m sure better answer will come.

 

[CrabbittMom]

Remember they are only kids once so if she has to choose, choose her passion, not something just to resume pad. The SA’s like leadership and she will need to talk about her activities and leadership roles during the interviews. I don’t think it needs to be tied to the high school specifically. She just will want to show her passion for the activities she chose and what type of leader she is.

 

[Heatherg21]

I agree with both above. Our DS tried a high school sport. Hated it. He resumed his taekwondo and stuck with the sport he loved. Excelling in that and instructing and proctoring tests were great experience and he loved it.
That came up during interviews. He was able to discuss modifying instruction for special needs students and how he could motivate those who were struggling to continue and not quit.
If she can continue excelling at a sport she is passionate about and can convey what she was able to contribute to her team and how she grew in that experience she will be in good shape.

 

[Don't Give Up the Ship]

I’m looking for some input from you wise ones. DD just started HS and has mentioned she is interested in USNA. She knows sports, leadership, grades & community service are all critical. Her HS does not have gymnastics and she has been doing it at the YMCA since she was a toddler. Covid hit and our local Y closed the doors on the program bc of the valuable space it took up ( valid point...sad but I get it). I looked into other programs: private gyms were 3x as much and we cannot afford that VS. a YMCA over the state line. A commute but doable ( still cheaper than private gyms). DD joined a fall HS sports team and plans on a spring HS sport bc she knows importance of it for USNA. She is still going to Y gymnastics ( when she can), working, student gov’t, model UN, church volunteer. I’m worried she’s going to have to give up one of the athletics at some point. She is new to both the HS sports she’s participating in so not banking on her earning scholarship even captain...my magic 8ball isn’t working at the moment (lol). “IF” she had to focus on 1 or the other ( non-high school YMCA gymnastics in another state VS high school sport but not excelling in it)...which would be better? I know there is no right magical answer, but interested in feedback. TIA

Seems to me that the gymnastics may be best for her - given her passion, etc. Also she should consider Girls HS Track or CC- being able to run fast is a definite plus for the CFA (which will come sooner than she would expect). Apply for Navy STEM now. I recommend reaching out to your BGO and asking for advice on this. The USNA wants BGOs to offer advice/guidance and help potential applicants succeed-BGOs are actually encouraged to reach out to middle schools (although I'm not sure how many do). DD sounds like she knows what she wants-this of course may change...Good Luck to her.

 

[justme]

She could try pole vault, high jump, or hurdles on track team. Gymnastics is a big helper for those events.
Also, does hs have a competitive cheer with the tumbling?

 

[HCopter]

Based on ONLY information provided, and superimposing my own DD's experience:

I would encourage and support her to do YMCA gymnastics, IF the NEW pact is that for high school, she will make athletic goals as well as leadership goals. Both of you know what it might take to get in a SA: your DS already went through the process so I think you know what it takes, especially the determination to reapply - and make it! If she wants to also do HS sports, pick ones that are compatible with her main sport.

Where there is adversity there is an opportunity to SHINE. Just think of how her story answers the question - how has this candidate overcome adversity? Is that an accurate indication of her capacity as a leader of others? Most candidates will walk down to the gym and try out. Yours has to drive out of her way, and cross a state line to do so. How many people can say that?