6 Ways Playing Sports Benefits Exchange Students

Picture this: Your exchange student nervously walks into soccer tryouts, unsure if she'll fit in with the American team. Fast forward three months, and she's already bonded with her teammates, attending post-game pizza nights, and teaching them curse words (the harmless ones, of course) in her native language.

One of the easiest (and most fun) ways to help your exchange student feel at home is by encouraging them to join a school sports team. It will help them build friendships, confidence, and jump headfirst into American high school life.

A Fast Track to New Friends

Let's be honest—making friends as a teenager is hard enough without a language barrier and cultural differences. But sports? Sports give exchange students an immediate social circle. When your exchange student joins a team, they'll become part of a group that shares a common goal and commitment. The bonds formed through early morning practices, challenging games, and team celebrations often become some of the strongest friendships of their exchange year.

Building Confidence and Self-Esteem

Every exchange student experiences moments of doubt. Am I fitting in? Do people understand me? Am I succeeding here? Sports provide a concrete way to build confidence by mastering new skills, contributing to team success, and overcoming challenges. Success on the team, no matter how small, will help your exchange student believe in their abilities. By learning to bounce back after losses, they will develop resilience and adaptability, qualities that will serve them well throughout their exchange year.

Learning English the Fun Way

Nothing speeds up language learning like the need to communicate quickly in a field or on a court. Sports are fast-paced and interactive, a perfect opportunity for your exchange student to practice conversational English in a casual setting. As part of a team, they will learn specific, practical phrases that will help them gain confidence in their English skills. Not to mention sports-specific vocabulary and American slang that they probably wouldn't find in textbooks.

Building Teamwork and Leadership Skills

When they join a sport, your exchange student might become a team captain, mentor younger players, or take initiative during critical game moments. They are working toward a common goal, learning to communicate effectively and lead and support their teammates. They will also gain a better understanding of the specific dynamics and communication styles of an American high school team.

Growing a Sense of Belonging

American high school sports culture extends far beyond the game itself. By joining a team, your exchange student will become a part of their school's traditions, like pep rallies, team dinners, and other social events. By participating in these traditions that are central to American high school life, they'll start to feel more like insiders and less like outsiders. 

A Healthy Outlet for Stress

Homesickness, culture shock, and the stress of adapting to a new environment can take a toll on exchange students' mental health. Regular exercise through sports helps relieve stress and improve sleep as they adapt to their new environment. Participating in regular practices with their team can also serve as a grounding routine for your exchange student as they navigate the emotional ups and downs of cultural adjustment.

If you're convinced that sports could benefit your exchange student, here are some ways to encourage their participation:

• Start the conversation early. Discuss sports options during your exchange student's first weeks, when they're most open to new experiences and before they establish other routines.
• Explore all options together. Research your school's athletic offerings, including less common sports that might align with your student's interests or previous experience. Don't overlook opportunities like cross country, tennis, swimming, or track and field that might be more accessible for beginners.
• Address practical concerns. Help with transportation to practices and games, assist with equipment purchases or borrowing, and make sure they understand the time commitments involved.
• Connect with coaches. Introduce your exchange student to coaches who can assess their skill level and recommend appropriate teams or development programs.
• Celebrate their efforts. Attend games when possible, celebrate improvements and achievements, and help them document their athletic journey through photos and videos to share with family back home.