Though I don't know how it plays into national standards, round these parts a student is required to take 1.5 years of sports during high school. Luckily, with my horrible sporting ability, band counts as half a years worth of athletics/PE/whatever. And hell, it's an earned credit. Marching band = a bitch.
In regards to sports associated with schools, I don't really mind. It provides an easy system to sign up with friends, keeps kids in shape, and provides motivation for passing classes. Let's face it, students involving themselves in school activities isn't a bad thing. There may be an overemphasis on certain sports, but the payoffs aren't bad.
|