Studies have proven that playing sports during the school year can improve a student's life over all. Exercise can help improve a student's grades, health, and self esteem.  During the fall season of 2013 I started playing volleyball for my school. Joining this sport had a positive influence on my life. I made more friends, started getting better grades, learned time management, and was happier.  Throughout the season our team bonded through various activities such a scavenger hunt, the Ginger Bread Express service project, and many more. This lead to more victories in games and helped build our confidence and teamwork.  I started getting better grades because I learned time management. I would always sit down and do my home work right after school and before practice. I could also ask the upper class men for help when needed. Surveys done by the University of South Carolina and Pennsylvania State University show that 14-18 year olds that participate in a high school sport do better than students who are apart of a debate team or drama club.  Sports also have a huge impact on your health. I used to eat unhealthy which led to slow running or lack of energy. I began playing volleyball and realized that if I ate better I would play better. Besides eating better, sports have innumerable physical health benefits, such as improved cardio respiratory and muscular fitness, increased life expectancy, and prevention of various cancers. Lastly, sports can improve your mood and your attitude. Studies have shown that sports can improve mental health by reducing depression, and improving cognitive functions. When exercising or playing a sport, your body lets out a hormone called positive endorphins. When your body lets out positive endorphins it can reduce stress, ward off anxiety and depression, boost self esteem, and improve your sleep. All of those factors can strengthen your heart, increase angry levels, lower blood pressure, and reduce fat.