Researcher Kimiko Fujita studied 6th to 8th graders at the Walnut Creek Christian Academy in the mid-2000s. It was found that sports as well as other activities like community service seemed to raise grade averages, where other activities like music were detrimental.
A 1989 study delivered by the Women's Sports Foundation argued that there was no link between poor grades and sports activities. They classified their students into 18 different ethnic, racial and gender categories. The study claimed that grades actually rose amongst athletes from three specific groups: rural white males, Hispanic females and suburban black males.
Some student athletes argue that playing sports while in school enhances their organizational skills. Due to the tight scheduling and various commitments involved, student-athletes may be more proactive in completing assignments on time. Their management of away games, practice and study is an opportunity for juggling responsibilities more effectively.