Since the 1970s, LHS has been an environment built for athletes to succeed, but the temptation of alcohol among athletes is a problem seen all across high schools in the United States.

According to a National Institutes of Health study surveying alcohol consumption among high school athletes across the nation, 78% of student-athletes use alcohol by the end of high school.

The study also found that student-athletes are far more likely to use alcohol than non-student-athletes because of the intense “team culture” and the existence of harsh peer pressure among their teammates.

“I don’t feel any pressure to drink alcohol as an athlete,” said an athlete at LHS who wishes to remain anonymous. “I feel like if I do, it would impact my performance, I would genuinely feel less confident in myself.”

The consistent use of alcohol among student-athletes can fog cognitive function and stunt brain development that is important going into adulthood. This makes the roles of figures such as coaches and teammates critical to the success of student-athletes.

Coaches at LHS strongly advise against the use of alcohol for the betterment of their athletes’ health and stability, not only on the court, but off it as well.

“My coach has a strong agenda against alcohol. They remind us before the weekends to stay safe during the weekend,” said the same student.

According to the student handbook, “Students may not possess, use, sell, supply, or be under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, controlled substances, or drug paraphernalia in any school-related setting.”

If a student were to be caught with alcohol on or off campus during a school activity like a sporting event, the offenses range from a seven-day suspension on the first offense to a mandatory expulsion hearing with a recommendation for expulsion after subsequent offenses.

According to the athletic handbook, the use of alcohol can cause the loss of athletic privileges.

The best steps that student-athletes can take to stay involved in their sport and stay in the best shape going into their season are to steer away from alcohol and other substances.