Choosing the Right Sport: Basketball vs Football for a 53-Year-Old

Deciding between basketball and football can be a challenging decision for anyone, but especially for a 53-year-old who is deciding whether to play at age 13. This article provides practical advice and insights to guide individuals in making the best choice for themselves.

Following Your Passion

The most important factor in choosing a sport is your personal interest and passion for the game. If you have a genuine love for either basketball or football, that will go a long way in helping you stay motivated and enjoy the experience. However, balancing your passion with other commitments, such as schoolwork, is crucial.

As mentioned by John Elway and Bo Jackson, successful athletes often find a way to excel in multiple sports. John Elway chose football over baseball, while Bo Jackson played both and excelled in both. Therefore, if you can manage your schedule and schoolwork effectively, you might have the opportunity to play both sports. Yet, at some point, you will need to make a decision.

Playing Both Sports if Possible

Football is traditionally a fall sport, while basketball is a winter sport. This means you can play both sports if your school and schedule allow it. Pursuing both sports can provide a well-rounded athletic experience and help you develop a variety of skills. However, if you have to choose, it is important to focus on the sport that aligns with your passion and which you are better at.

Specialization and Age

At age 13, specialization in one sport is not necessary unless multiple coaches have identified you as having a promising future in that sport. While there are rare cases of kids beginning to attract the attention of college and professional scouts at ages 13 and 14, these are exceptions. Even in these instances, it is still beneficial to continue playing multiple sports, including non-contact activities like basketball, to maintain a balanced athletic development.

Growth Potential and Size

It is important to consider that you still have time to grow and you might experience a growth spurt in the future. Size is a significant factor in many sports, but it is your ability and skill level that ultimately determine your success in organized teams. Focusing on your passion and athletic potential is more important than worrying about your current size.

Having Fun and Making Friends

The primary purpose of playing sports is to have fun, make friends, and enjoy the camaraderie of being part of a team. Most children who play sports do not continue beyond high school, and a significant number do not even make their varsity teams. This is perfectly fine and emphasizes the importance of enjoying the process rather than solely focusing on results.

In conclusion, choosing between basketball and football depends on your personal passion, schedule, and ability. Playing each sport in its respective season is a practical solution for many. Remember that size is not the only determining factor, and that having fun and making friends are the true goals of sports participation. Good luck in your athletic journey!