Activities, sports, and extracurriculars are a large part of a student’s life, which can make parents concerned when considering online school. Many students are very active and social, thriving on interaction with classmates and friends. This is why sports and club options are so valuable—they broaden a student’s horizons and help them grow both socially and academically. Parents often wonder whether transitioning to an online school will affect homeschool sports eligibility.
Fortunately, NorthStar Academy offers students the academic flexibility they need while still supporting a wide range of extracurricular opportunities. Many programs and local sports organizations accept online students, and students can often participate through homeschool groups or nearby public or private schools. Additionally, NorthStar Academy provides clubs, student groups, and online extracurriculars that help students stay engaged and connected.
Local Sports for Online Students
While an online school cannot host its own in-person athletic teams, online students can still join sports programs in their communities. Whether through private schools, public schools, or independent leagues, many organizations welcome online and homeschool students. Policies vary by school and state, so researching local eligibility requirements is an important first step. Many families find that schools across the United States and overseas are increasingly open to allowing online students to participate.
NorthStar Academy’s NCAA Affiliation
NorthStar Academy is accredited and affiliated with the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA). Many NSA courses are approved by the NCAA and can support a student’s path toward college athletics. Student-athletes who plan to compete at the collegiate level must register with the NCAA Eligibility Center, which verifies coursework and academic standards. NSA’s NCAA-approved courses help meet these requirements and support students who aspire to pursue athletics at the college level.
How to Know If Local Schools Accept Online Students
According to the National Federation of State High Schools (NFHS), whether homeschool or online students may join local sports programs varies widely. Policies differ between states and even between individual schools, which can make the process confusing. Fortunately, most eligibility rules are set at the state level. A bit of research—and direct communication with local schools—can usually clarify your student’s options. The number of states allowing homeschool and online students to participate is steadily increasing.
For more details, a NorthStar Academy staff member can help point you in the right direction.
Benefits of Joining Local Sports Teams
Local sports teams offer both physical and social benefits. Students build strength, coordination, and discipline through practices and competitions. Physical activity also supports brain function and overall well-being. Participation in sports fosters teamwork, relationships, and confidence—skills that support academic success and personal growth.
Other Online School Extracurriculars
Not every student is an athlete—and that’s where online school extracurriculars shine. NorthStar Academy offers a wide variety of clubs, interest groups, and student-led opportunities that allow learners to explore passions like chess, creative writing, foreign language, and more. These groups provide consistent opportunities for students to build friendships and participate in meaningful, structured activities.
As a global school, NorthStar Academy values authentic community and connection across cultures. Students can join NSA Connects—live, interest-based sessions where they collaborate, discuss, and bond with peers from around the world. Spiritual Life and Spiritual Emphasis Events offer additional spaces for students to grow deeper in their faith alongside supportive classmates and mentors. Regular contests and celebrations help strengthen community through fun, creativity, and shared experiences.
NorthStar Academy also offers student leadership opportunities through Student Council. Here, students work with faculty to plan events, represent the student body, and develop leadership skills that serve them academically, personally, and spiritually. Through mentorship and hands-on involvement, Student Council members gain confidence, responsibility, and real-world leadership experience. To learn more about student clubs and connection opportunities, click here!
A NorthStar Academy Staff Member Can Help Get You Connected
Online students can absolutely participate in local sports and extracurriculars. While eligibility research may be required, many students flourish academically, socially, and physically with this combined approach. Online clubs and interest groups provide additional avenues for connection—and help make NorthStar Academy’s global community vibrant and meaningful.
For more details on your student’s options, contact us here!