For student athletes, reclassing is a popular tactic to get ahead when applying to a top college athletic program. Repeating a school year helps student athletes get a jump start in their high school sports career allowing them greater opportunities when it comes to applying for colleges.
Even though reclassing is often used for student athletes it’s also used for those struggling academically. However, when it comes to reclassing for the purpose of sports, a large component is how students are physically. Since most students are still actively growing during high school a student athlete may choose to stay back a year to give them more time to grow and have a physical advantage. The goal is student athletes will be bigger and stronger when coming into their upcoming sport season.
When applying to colleges and reclassing, there is a higher chance of getting scholarships. People who reclass do it in hopes of standing out to scouts. Due to the physical advantage and having more experience in their sport, students that re-class are more likely to be noticed by schools.
Compared to the benefits, reclassing also comes with a lot of sacrifice; students miss out on their friends and not being able to graduate with their class. Even though students are going to the same school it’s still completely different from being in the same grade as your friends. Students will see their friends less and will likely have to make new friends within their classes. Another factor is whether or not you’re doing good in school you still have to repeat the entire grade.
There is a large dispute over whether reclassing is fair or not. Is reclassing taking advantage of the school system or is the option fair for truly gifted athletes? While many athletes are in favor of this process many believe they are abusing the system as reclassing should be solely devoted to those struggling academically. Ultimately, reclassing as an athlete should be left up to the school and the athletic program to decide as there are many advantages and disadvantages to this system.
