Today, let us delve into a topic that often sparks debate among parents and students – the integration of sports and education. In India, there’s a common misconception that one must choose between excelling in sports or focusing on academics, especially during critical phases like the 10th or 12th standard. However, TSG views sports and education as not mutually exclusive; rather, sports serve as a valuable form of education in themselves.
At TSG (Tarun Sardesai Golf) Academy in Bangalore, we’ve embraced a unique approach that seamlessly integrates education into our sports curriculum. Education is not looked at as secondary or alternative because there is enough research done to show how a students’ performance in the classroom correlates to his or her performance on the golf course. The one reason that stands out is that it is in the classroom that a student develops critical thinking and this is what allows the athlete to process the information that the coach is giving him.
Sports serve as a training ground for life skills.. Students gain leadership, discipline, resilience, and teamwork – skills that are useful both on and off the field. Education on the other hand gives athletes the analytical and problem-solving abilities they need for competition and everyday life. Learning imparts flexibility and strategic thinking in addition to knowledge from textbooks. Beyond the field, an educated athlete can pursue a career in sports science, sports management, coaching, or even entrepreneurship.
This deliberate decision reflects our belief that sports can enrich the educational experience and contribute to holistic development. This is the reason why our curriculum combines professional-level golf instruction with academics. Young golfers can easily continue their education while pursuing their passion for golf. We provide our athletes with the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) option, a recognized board that offers flexible education between grades 9 and 12. For the grade 6-8 students it is the CBSE board that we follow. The way the program is designed by our partners PROSE EDU, students don’t need more than 3 forty minute sessions a day for 5 days, and with expert lesson planning there is no attendance required during tournaments. Yes, it is still possible to finish the portions, do exams and excel too. Our teachers help students schedule their coursework around competitions without feeling under pressure. Students are free to work independently on their assignments, focus on pertinent areas, and take board exams twice a year.
It is time to dispel the misconception that is “sports or education”. By combining the two, we produce well-rounded golfers with promising futures. Experience how education and sport can work together with TSG!
