At a UK university in my 4th year studying a Masters in Engineering. Usually i've been playing football for the University every Wednesday and monday evening, but this year in particular i've had to give up on some sporting commitments to focus on getting the best grade possible.

I realise sport is important, and I have been keeping fit at the gym, however I had to release some commitments to football so i didn't miss lectures and could focus on getting the best grade possible.

A few mates have said this was the easy way out, and I'm wondering if they were right, or would you agree that freeing some time from commitments to focus on the degree was a better idea in the long run?