Publications

This paper delves into the intricate relationship between school sports participation and academic performanceamong children and adolescents. It explores three primary types of physical activity in schools: physical educationclasses, school sports, and free-time activities. While physical education is typically mandated, school sportsrepresent a voluntary but popular form of physical activity. The paper investigates existing literature on theimpact of school sports on academic outcomes, considering both biological and social mechanisms. It examineshow sports participation influences cognitive function, brain structure, and academic achievement. Additionally,the paper explores the development of key skills consistent with educational values, the role of social relations, andthe psychological benefits associated with sports participation. Moreover, it scrutinizes potential drawbacks suchas time allocation and energy devoted to sports at the expense of academic pursuits. The synthesis of findingsreveals a nuanced relationship, emphasizing the need for further research to elucidate causal mechanisms andinform educational policies promoting holistic development.Keywords: Sports Participation, Academic Achievement, Cognitive Benefits, Athletic Identity, Competitive Sports