52
Philosophy
<p><em>So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."</em><br />
  I Corinthians 10:31</p>


<p>The athletic program is an extension of the Physical Education Department and has definite educational goals. Highest of these is to bring athletics under the Lordship of Jesus Christ by teaching Christian commitments and joyful living through the student's athletic experiences. In its proper context, athletics is a learning center for the maturation process. Along with health fitness and motor proficiency, sports teach citizenship, respect for authority, self-discipline, self-control, the pursuit of excellence, and how to deal with success and failure.</p>


  <p><em>"Do you know that in a race all the runners compete, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. Well, I do not run aimlessly, I do not box as one beating the air; but I pummel my body and subdue it, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified."</em><br />
  I Corinthians 9:24-27</p>


<h6>Upper School</h6>

<p>The upper school interscholastic athletic program provides opportunities for students to participate at a high level of play in the MSHSAA. The most qualified students are selected in order to field highly competitive sports teams. Students are required to demonstrate a willingness to sacrifice time, give an intense effort, and place the team above self-interests. When appropriate, alternatives in sports education will be emphasized, such as physical education, sports clubs, or other co-curricular activities.</p>

<h6>Middle School</h6>

<p>Middle School athletics provides opportunities for students to participate in various sports at developmentally appropriate levels. Students are expected to demonstrate cooperative play, commitment to their team and adherence to rules and guidelines as established by each coach.</p>


  <p><em>"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."</em><br />
  Colossians 3:23-24</p>


<p>In essence, athletics is a form of worship, a celebration of life in Christ. Participants are accountable to God for their attitudes and actions.</p>