What's Happening?
Some high schools continue to use junior varsity (JV) teams as a platform for developing young athletes, despite a trend towards placing talented freshmen directly on varsity teams. This approach allows players to mature physically and develop their skills in a less pressured environment. Notable examples include Drew Anderson, Pierce Thompson, and Isaiah Williamson, who started on JV teams and have since become varsity standouts. Schools like Harvard-Westlake and St. John Bosco emphasize the importance of JV teams in player development, with coaches advocating for patience and long-term growth over immediate varsity placement.
Why It's Important?
The use of JV teams for player development underscores the importance of patience and long-term planning in youth sports.
By allowing young athletes to develop at their own pace, schools can foster a more sustainable and inclusive sports environment. This approach can lead to better outcomes for athletes, as they are given the time to grow and refine their skills before facing the pressures of varsity competition. It also highlights the role of sports in education, where the focus is on personal growth and development rather than immediate success. This philosophy can contribute to a healthier sports culture that values development over short-term achievements.
