IGHSAU study: Extra-curriculars make a difference

Participation matters.So says results of a

comprehensive survey, released by the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union.On behalf of the Union, the Center for Social and Behavioral Research at the University of Northern Iowa conducted a study of associations between participating in high school extracurricular activities and adult life experiences.“The Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union has long promoted the concept that participation in extra-curricular activities, specifically athletics, enhances a student's achievement, self-esteem, and successes in their adult life,” said IGHSAU executive director Mike Dick.“A survey of this magnitude validates the mission of our organization.”In 2008, a telephone survey was conducted with adult Iowans who had graduated from high schools in Iowa between 1988 and 1998. The survey included questions about physical health status and behaviors, psychosocial well-being, engagement in normative and anti-normative behaviors, health-related behaviors and life satisfaction.A total of 807 interviews (456 female, 351 male) were conducted from a random sample of landline telephone numbers in Iowa.Ninety-six precent of all respondents participated in some extracurricular activity during high school -- 76 percent in athletics and 88 percent in non-sport activities.Of these, 92 percent said participating in high school athletics made their high school experience more positive and 87 percent said the lessons they learned while participating have helped them as adults.Participating in sports during high school was associated with the following:* Engaging in vigorous physical activity during the week.* Reporting very good or excellent emotional health.* High self-esteem.* Not experiencing short- or long-term depression.* Satisfaction with progress toward goals in domains of family, career and general life.*Making active use of discretionary time outside the home.* Volunteering in the community.* Voting in elections.* Accessing news outlets every day.* Completion of a four-year degree.* Having an annual household income greater than $50,000.* Not having trouble paying bills.