Athletics
Interscholastic activities are an important part of Sacred Heart Jr-Sr High School. We view the athletic program as a direct extension of the classroom. The purpose of us offering an athletic program is to present additional opportunities for us to guide our students in their spiritual, moral, physical and social development at Sacred Heart.
We realize the values we seek from athletics cannot exist without the constant practice and modeling of good sportsmanship. Since we seek to offer all curricular activities, all Sacred Heart students are given the opportunity for full membership and a no cut policy is instituted for all Sacred Heart athletic teams. We wish to emphasize sportsmanship at the highest level for all teams, at all levels, in both individual and team competitions.
Our JH sports program exists to provide ample opportunities to teach and develop the basic fundamentals of individual and team play. Furthermore, we see these activities as providing additional opportunities for cultivating and nurturing positive leadership skills, fostering strong relationships along with elevating the students level of responsibility and the primary focus of instilling the values associated with true participation and membership on a sports team.
We view Junior Varsity practice and competition as an additional opportunity to develop the fundamentals of individual and team play while giving athletes the opportunity to further display their developing skills. While winning is important, player participation should not be sacrificed merely for the sake of winning. Preparation for possible varsity competition among all players is emphasized.
We expect our varsity teams to perform at a highest level of competition while fully maintaining the integrity of the game within the rules and spirit of respectful competition. While this level is the most competitive, it also demonstrates the most respect, has the most dignity and has the highest expectations of behavior by both the student/athlete and coaches.
At the high school level, coaches can distribute playing time by merit, but certainly should keep in mind the importance of giving all varsity players in good standing at least some playing time
Within this context, a call for limits and balance is relayed. Limits include responsible behavior for all, balance meaning that athletics is only one part of a healthy life for a student. With an appropriate understanding of purpose, goals and underlying value inherent in sports, the student experience can be positive and life giving. It can call forth the best players, coaches, parents and our entire Christian community.