There cannot be two opinions whether sports should be compulsory in schools. Of course there are some who still feel that sports in schools are a waste. They feel also that the sports has a corrupting influence. They may be correct because they might have seen in the morning papers ugly scenes taking place on the field. True, there are riots sometimes over the decision of a referee in a soccer tournament. Or again, it may be that a favourite team has lost. But these must not be taken as the criteria to decide whether sports should be compulsory in schools or not.
The aim of sports in school is not only to create champions but also to train the body and the mind of youngsters. The sports events must be looked upon as a compliment to the class work. If the class teaching can develop the intellectual skills, the sports are sure to develop the physical skills. Many things which children cannot learn in the classrooms can be learnt on the field. The spirit of play is there in children and they like to take part in sports and games. A child who does not play has something wrong about him.
Taking part in sports improves the nerves and muscles. It improves the physical skill, and general health. Moral qualities are developed by playing games. The child learns to play its part and thus to play the game. It is always the team spirit and not obeying orders. This will be really useful later in life. Leadership qualities are developed. Healthy rivalry is always an advantage to participants.
It is argued that, for the sake of its advantages, sports should be made compulsory in schools. True but man as he is has some inertia and unless there is some sort of compulsion, he doesn’t take even to good things. In order to let children benefit by the sports, they must be compelled to participate in team. By taking part in games, children keep themselves away from undesirable things. So, sports must be made compulsory in schools.
