By tamara
Did you know that over nine million American students between the ages of 6 and 19 are obese? That’s one statistic that needs to change. You can do your part by being active at school and at home. Get involved in activities, such as walking, biking or playing organized sports. Physical activity not only helps you control your weight, but also helps improve your mental health and mood. There can also be an additional benefit to participating in sports – scholarships! Most colleges offer an array of sports scholarships, with most going to football, basketball and baseball players. However, there are other scholarship opportunities available through private sponsors, such as:
1. Billy Welu Scholarship – This scholarship is sponsored by the Professional Bowlers Association and provides one scholarship annually to either a U.S. or international college student who has a grade point average of 2.5 or higher and participates in amateur bowling activities. Value: $1,000. Deadline: May 31, 2012.
2. Walter J. Travis Memorial Scholarship – Any U.S. student, who is enrolled full-time in college (undergraduate or graduate) and is pursuing a degree with an emphasis in golf, may apply. Applicants must have an interest in golf and participate in golf-related activities. Up to four awards will be given annually. Value: $700. Deadline: June 1, 2012.
3. NABF Scholarship Program – Any U.S. high school senior or college student who is a current or former participant in any league properly sanctioned with the National Amateur Baseball Federation is eligible to apply. Last year, five scholarships were awarded. Value: $1,000. Deadline: September 1, 2012.
4. Caitlin Brondolo Golf Scholarship – The Caitlin Brondolo Charitable Foundation provides a scholarship to one female high school senior who has played a minimum of two years on a high school golf team and has been accepted to play on a collegiate team as well. Value: $2,500. Deadline: May 31, 2012.
5. BigSun Scholarship – Any U.S. or international high school student who participates in an organized sport may apply for this award. Applicants must submit an essay that answers the following prompt: “How has your education contributed to who you are today? Why do you want to earn a college education?” One award is offered annually. Value: $500. Deadline: June 22, 1012.
You don’t have to be Peyton Manning or Albert Pujols to receive a sports scholarship; there are opportunities for students who participate in bowling, golfing and other recreational sports as well. Check with your high school guidance counselor and college financial aid office to find out what may be available for your particular sport. Want to find more scholarships for college? Try using a free scholarship search service, like ScholarshipExperts.com.