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Throughout my four years at West Forsyth, I’ve learned a lot about the do’s and don’ts of high school. Do make sure you join a few clubs. Don’t walk in the grass when it’s raining, unless you intend to take a bath in mud. Do your homework the day it’s assigned, but don’t try to get ahead by doing it in other classes. The most important thing that I’ve learned, however, does not pertain to academics at all, but sports. Despite the fact that I was on the volleyball team during my freshman year, I never went to football games. I never made it to a basketball game, and I barely kept up with whether or not we were winning. But, if I could go back and change one thing about my experience, it would be to attend more sporting events; here’s why.

Last Saturday, I went to my first ever West Forsyth basketball game. It just so happened that it was also the girls 4A state championship. I got to sit in a section jam-packed with teachers and students alike, all cheering on the Lady Titans. I got to scream and yell and jump around while my classmates on the court took home a state championship. It was a truly authentic high school experience, but it was also bittersweet, as I realized I would be graduating in just three short months.

This realization made me consider my overall involvement in athletics. My same feelings also applied to football, soccer and every other sport that West has to offer. The games aren’t just about sports; they’re about being part of a community and finding a commonality among your peers. You don’t have to be a football fan to dress up in theme and hang out with friends. It may seem like just a cliché part of the high school experience, but it’s incredibly worth it. So, students, don’t make it all the way to your senior year and regret what you didn’t do; instead, make an effort to go to a few games, and I promise, you won’t be sorry that you did.