<p>I quit quite frankly because it was physically trying. I couldn't keep my grades up. Also, I found no joy in the sport, rather only played it because I wanted to be with friends and have something to list on my college application.</p>
<p>However, this was a pivotal moment in my life. I only addressed it in one of my essays, however. Should I still list it on the common app?</p>
<p>I think you should list it, unless you have lots of other ECs that you were involved with during freshman and sophomore years. 2 years in HS is still a fairly significant committment. Many students play a sport and then their priorities shift. Athletes get injured, kids want to improve their grades, interest fades, burnout happens, lots of reasons to stop playing a sport. If you really feel compelled to explain why you no longer play that sport, the Additional Information section on the common app is a good spot for that. It sounds like you made a good decision for YOU, with no regrets. That shows some insight and maturity.</p>
<p>It depends on what else you have to list as activities. You should be prioritizing your activities and listing them starting with the most important ones first. If there are still slots for this one, then list it, but if other activities are more significant, then list them.</p>
<p>Stay away from explicitly stating “I couldn’t keep my grades up.” While this is an important epiphany in your personal journey of self-discovery, it will be a red flag to adcoms. They prefer applicants who have high ceilings and will continue to excel as they face greater challenges - your statement clearly runs counter to this profile.</p>
<p>Don’t be dishonest, but position your reasons for pursuing other activities in favorable terms.</p>