From the Sports Field to the Classroom

The Social Role of an Elite Sports Team in the Periphery

Abstract

National-level professional sports teams can profoundly influence teenagers involved in trials, selection, and participation. In this study, we examined the ability of a successful local soccer team to motivate high school students to improve their academic achievements and behavior. This research used interviews and focus groups with educators from two peripheral towns, one Arab and one Jewish. The texts were qualitatively open coded and constructed into major themes. We found that soccer teams with an educational and societal agenda and solid cooperation with the local schools would influence students to improve their academic achievements and behavior. Sports teams can play an essential role in conveying educational and societal values to teenage high school students.