Homeschooler Participation in High School Sports (continued)

Thus, homeschoolers wishing to participate in high school athletics without enrolling in the school or an acceptable independent study program will not be able to do so. They will need to decide if giving up their homeschooling freedom is outweighed by the benefits of high school sports.

How Significant is the Definition of Homeschool Found in the CIF Bylaws?

The Steffes and Jones decisions elevated the CIF bylaws to legislative status for evaluation purposes. The recognition of homeschooling is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it acknowledges the existence of independent homeschooling. On the other hand, it denies eligibility to independent homeschoolers and is possibly the first step towards a definition of homeschooling in California. The next step could be homeschooling regulations.

Participation in College Sports

Homeschoolers are participating in and getting scholarships for college sports. Kristina is playing tennis at the University of California, San Diego, a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II school. As a homeschooler, she did not go through the NCAA Clearinghouse, as is required of public and private school students, until after she was accepted at UCSD and on the team. However, the rules regarding homeschoolers changed recently, and homeschool athletes planning to participate in college sports need to register with the NCAA Clearinghouse to get an initial eligibility report. They are required to meet certain academic requirements, as are all team members. For further information, go to the NCAA website and review the requirements for homeschoolers.

Weighing the Alternatives

Participation in high school and college sports programs can be a rewarding for homeschool athletes. However, homeschoolers need to carefully consider the alternatives. Sometimes the high school athletic opportunities do not override the joy of homeschooling independently, following your own schedule, and planning your own course in life. One of many reasons for homeschooling through high school is to promote education over the distractions offered in public and private high schools. Often, athletic opportunities available in our communities, particularly in individual sports such as swimming, tennis and gymnastics, are superior to the high school programs. Some sports may only be available through high school programs, such as football and basketball, and high school participation may be required in order to qualify for college team positions and scholarships. Each homeschooler will need to make an informed decision based on his or her particular situation and goals, and the available options.