Sleeping In

Whether you are an athlete or just a high school student, sleep is your best friend. Sleeping in until one in the afternoon seems like a pretty great thing to do on the weekends, but to your parents it is the worst. Everyone has those parents that get angry when you sleep in, because you simply aren't using your time wisely. As a student athlete I believe this is an extremely good use of my time. 

One thing parents do not understand is that athletes do not ever get enough sleep. No matter how much time we get to sleep, we are always tired. Catching up on sleep is extremely difficult. I might get ten hours of sleep one day, which should be plenty, but since I only got five the day before I am still extremely tired. My sleep schedule for that one night does not determine how tired I am on that particular day.

Another reason athletes are always so tired is because some play multiple sports, and even if you don't you still have other responsibilities after school. Whether it is homework or chores there is always something to be done at home after practice. This is not something to complain about, but simply a fact that there is a lot to do in a day. On top of homework, chores, practice, and school you must make time for other things like taking showers or packing bags. If you get home late that means you will be up even later than normal and you might only get a couple hours of sleep. You are then expected to perform just as well as the other days at school and practice. The weekend provides a break for athletes to simply relax.

The last reason I think sleeping in on the weekend is a good idea is because it provides you with a time to relax. You are rejuvenated by the good night's sleep and are taking time off to yourself. This makes for a happier person. Parents wonder why teenagers are always so cranky. They don't get enough sleep!

If you live with a teenager don't be that person who wakes them up early to eat breakfast or simply start the day off. It's a day off. Let them spend it how they want to spend it. Teenagers need to learn how to use their time wisely on their own before going off to college and if they choose to spend the entire day sleeping, then so be it.