Modified Teams
At this level, students become accustomed to interscholastic practice and play. For many, it is their first introduction to competitive sports, different from recreation in its demands and philosophy.
Gaining experience through training and play should be paramount, not the win/loss record. At this level of play, the focus is on learning athletic skills and game rules, fundamentals of team play, social-emotional growth, and healthy competition.
All players will receive playing time, as safety and positive participation in practice allow.
Freshman & Junior Varsity Teams
This level of competition has an increased emphasis upon team play, physical conditioning, and refinement of basic skills. Although being successful on the J.V. level is important, winning is not the sole objective. This is the level at which the athlete displays his/her readiness for the execution of skills at game speed. Athletic abilities, commitments, and positive attitudes will be rewarded and tested in competitive game situations.
An attempt will be made to allow as many participants as possible to play but not all will play equally. At the J.V. level, playing time will be based on the degree of effort, skill improvement, ability to compete and execution of skills at game speed demonstrated by the student athlete in practice and during games.
Varsity Teams
Varsity competition is the culmination of each sport program. It is at this level that competition becomes more intense and the idea of winning becomes a goal.
Squad size at the varsity level is limited. The number of participants on any given team is a function of the number needed to conduct an effective and meaningful practice and to play the contest. It is vital that each team member have a role and be informed of its importance. The number of roster positions is relative to the students, acceptance of their individual roles in pursuit of the team's goals. While contest participation over the course of a season is desirable, a specified amount of playing time at the varsity level is never guaranteed. It is the coach's responsibility to make clear to the student athlete what his/her role is on the team.
A sound attitude and advanced level of skill are prerequisites for a position on a varsity team, as is the realization that a varsity sport requires a six-day-a-week commitment. This commitment is often extended into vacation periods for all sport seasons. While contests and practices are rarely held on holidays or Sundays, the dedication and commitment needed to conduct a successful varsity program should be taken seriously.