When you think of a sport, the first thing that will often come to mind will most likely be one of the more generic sports such as basketball, football, soccer, or baseball. While these may be some of the most recognizable and respected sports, people play countless other sports that most people may not even know exist. So what makes a sport a “sport”?
The definition of a sport from dictionary.com states, “An athletic activity requiring skill or physical prowess and often of a competitive nature.” According to Topend Sports, some of the more controversial sports include dancing, gymnastics, sports involving animals such as hunting or fishing, as well as motor sports such as motocross riding, and drone racing.
In order to be considered a sport, an activity must require some type of physical prowess or skill. All of the sports listed above do require activity and skill, but so do countless other activities such as marching band, which the public does not consider a sport. Alex Bryant, an AFHS senior in marching band, said, “It’s not a sport because I have played basketball before and [marching band is] not even close to physically challenging as basketball is. The requirements are met for it to be one but it isn’t one to me.” Maryssa Sharp, an AFHS sophomore in the marching band also said, “I don't think marching band is a sport, I would say [marching band] is a performing art because you do compete, but you cheer on and support other bands instead of having a rivalry like in softball or football.”
The definition of a sport seems to be very broad, and can fit multiple activities of all types, but what draws the line between being considered a sport or just being considered a hobby or a fun activity?
Although certain activities such as marching band could make a valid argument on why they should be considered a sport, sports and forms of art and music should remain separate. In order for an activity to be considered a sport, it should include some sort of team work, competition, and athletic ability.
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