Athletics Are Not Optional

Published July 09, 2008
Athletic programs in private schools are an integral part of school life. They are not 'optional as they often are in public schools. Why is that? Because in most private schools sports teach students many lessons about team work and competition. The physical exercise component is an important ingredient as well. Private schools teach their students to enjoy exercise and to excel in an athletic activity of their choice.
 
The result is that most private schools have simply amazing sports facilities and atheltic programs. You will find schools which have their own golf courses, riding stables, crew facilities, hockey arenas, olympic sized swimming pools, as well as the more common football, baseball and soccer fields.

Besides the intramural sports which are played within the school itself, many schools offer varsity programs in which teams compete with other private schools in well-established leagues. The more popular sports will offer many sections so that everyone who wants to participate can do so.

Private school teachers are expected to 'coach' a sport or an activity. Consequently you will find the Latin teacher showing students the fine points of archery. In addition most schools hire a professional coaches for the primary and speciality sports such as riding, football, swimming and so on. Schools also have qualified medical and para-medical staff available in case of the inevitable accidents.
 
Sports in private schools are part of an integrated, balanced approach to teaching students. That approach balances academics with exercise and personal growth. It follows the old classical philosophy of mens sana in corpore sano.

Some of the sports offered at private schools include:
 
  • archery
  • badminton
  • baseball
  • basketball
  • crew
  • cross country
  • cycling
  • diving
  • field hockey
  • football
  • golf
  • hockey
  • lacrosse
  • riding
  • soccer
  • squash
  • swimming
  • tennis

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