SMWS Interscholastic Athletics Mission Statement of Philosophy – the SMWS Brand of Athletics
The Athletic Program is an integral component of the total SMWS educational program. At Shining Mountain, the movement curriculum recognizes that healthy physical activity lays the foundation for healthy brain and neural development; enhances physical, emotional, ethical, and spiritual aspects of the human being; and provides a vital pathway for self-exploration. We structure our program to strengthen different abilities at each stage of development and cooperative games in the early grades yield to competitive sports in middle and high school.
The program provides for the safety and well being of each individual participant. Athletes are supported to experience the sheer fun and enjoyment in their sport.
There are no “cuts” and all SMWS students are encouraged to participate regardless of experience or ability. Each athlete and coach shall be respected as a human being, challenged to be the best they can be, and inspired to be a contributing member to society.
The community, school personnel, coaches, and all athletes shall strive to be competitive, however SMWS Athletics does not support a “win at all costs” mentality. In other words, the short-term goal of winning shall never override the long-term participation objectives of guiding student athletes to develop physically, emotionally, and socially.
A healthy competitive attitude is a goal for each student. Knowledgeable coaches vigorously teach the fundamental skills and strategies of each sport.
It is our hope that athletics will be enjoyable, challenging, and rewarding.