Clarence Students Encouraged to Pursue Athletics, Music

As students and families across the Clarence Central School District consider participation in activities and elective courses, students and staff shared encouragement to pursue both athletics and music, citing benefits for their academic, physical and mental development.

“We truly believe it’s special when kids aren’t limited to one activity or another,” said Louis Vitello, Music Department Chairman. “We want to have strong students academically as well as being involved in the arts and athletics.”

For some students, the challenge of juggling multiple activities has brought wide ranging benefits to their development as students, athletes, musicians and members of the school community. 

Sofia Banifatemi, a sophomore tennis player who plays clarinet in the High School Wind Ensemble, said she has seen her skills grow in areas such as time management.

“It’s definitely a challenge, but it helps you to use both sides of your brain,” she said.

Among the improved skills described by senior Matthew Ganschow was in working with his peers. Ganschow, who plays varsity volleyball, basketball and baseball, plays the French horn in the High School Wind Ensemble.

“You need to blend in with a band the same way you blend in with your team,” he said. “As long as you’re communicating, things can work out.”

Owen Olexenko, a freshman who plays soccer as well as string bass in the High School Symphony Orchestra, said he has been exposed to a wide range of experiences as a result of his academic, musical, and athletic pursuits.

“It’s a lot of time and effort, but push through because it’s worth it,” Owen said. “There are a lot of great opportunities.”

With timing of activities seen as a major issue for those considering multiple activities, leaders of the District’s Athletics Department and Music Department said they work together regularly to limit scheduling conflicts for athletic games and tryouts with performances and key rehearsals, and to support students participating in multiple activities.

“It’s hugely important for kids to do both,” said Jason Lehmbeck, Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics. “We work well together so that students have the opportunity to do both.”

Research shows that student engagement in music and athletics can carry positive benefits. According to the NAMM Foundation, music education is key to improving overall academic performance across a wide range of subjects and increasing engagement in school. The National Federation of State High School Associations said high school sport participation carries lifelong benefits for students, from increased self-confidence, empathy and awareness of their own actions to building lifelong fitness habits. 

More information about athletics offerings in the District can be found at https://www.clarenceschools.org/athletics. More information about the Clarence Music Department can be found at https://www.clarenceschools.org/music.