There is one thing about fifth grade that everyone looks forward to: school sports! This season basketball is the hot spot, so now the fifth graders get to try out this awesome sport. When kids have the chance to play basketball, they benefit sportsmanship and enjoy a very different experience than club sports. Also, this year the fifth graders are very excited to play together on the the court.

Basketball is a great activity where kids can learn positive sportsmanship skills. Nick is a fifth grader here at St. Robert, and he explains, “You get to learn how to collaborate and play with others.” In this sport one has to learn how to rely on their teammates to do the right thing with every pass and play. Basketball also helps one learn how to cheer on their teammates. Nick explains that when he plays basketball, he learns how to best work, support and communicate with others. At practice, teamwork comes naturally as teammates can give each other tips to improve their game. However, amidst all this teamwork, deeper relationships are built. Nick also claims, “I think you get to work with people to make new friends and to make stronger bonds.”

While basketball on any level is a sport where one can learn many skills, there is a difference between school basketball and club basketball. Nick states, “I am more excited to play St. Robert than [with the] club basketball [team] because I’m with my friends [when playing in the school league].”

The fifth grader also claims, “In club you get more of a real experience.” Club sports can sometimes be more competitive and skill-driven. Although club basketball has more of an intense pace, when kids play school sports, they get a chance to play with their friends, which makes the game even more fun.

The fifth graders are very excited to play their first year of school basketball as they know that it is a great sport with much to offer.