Sports, School, and Staying Substance-Free

 For many high school students, sports are more than a pastime — they’re a passion. But what many teens don’t realize is that even “casual” substance use can undermine athletic performance in ways that matter on the field, court, or track.


Alcohol slows reaction time, disrupts sleep, and dehydrates the body. A 2019 report by the American College of Sports Medicine found that athletes who consumed alcohol regularly had reduced endurance and slower recovery after workouts. For teens, whose bodies are still developing, these effects are magnified.

Marijuana also interferes with athletic performance. THC reduces coordination, slows reflexes, and affects motivation. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (2024) notes that marijuana use is linked to reduced lung capacity and stamina — two factors critical for athletes.

Nicotine and vaping pose another challenge. Nicotine restricts blood flow, making it harder for muscles to get oxygen during exertion. The CDC (2023) highlights how vaping can damage lungs, leaving athletes gasping for air when they need endurance most.

At SSAPCO, we remind athletes that prevention isn’t about missing out — it’s about gaining an edge. By staying drug-free, teens have better stamina, faster reaction times, and quicker recovery. Coaches and parents can support this by reinforcing that substance use isn’t just a health risk — it’s a barrier to performance.

Locally, SSAPCO partners with coaches, the Teen Center, and DFY leaders to host events that celebrate healthy living. Athletes who commit to being drug-free become role models for their peers, proving that prevention and excellence go hand in hand.

As students gear up for fall sports, the message is clear: if you want to compete at your best, your choices off the field matter as much as your training on it. Stay strong, stay focused, and play drug-free.

Sources:

  • American College of Sports Medicine. (2019). Alcohol and Athletic Performance.

  • NIDA. (2024). Marijuana and Athletic Performance.

  • CDC. (2023). Youth and Tobacco/Vaping Use.

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