ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT PHILOSOPHY

“In an independent school, the athletic program should function as an integral part of the total curriculum.” - The Independent School, fall 1996.

Villa Duchesne/Oak Hill's athletic program is an integral part of the total curriculum of the school. It provides wholesome opportunities for young people to learn lessons in sportsmanship, teamwork, competition (how to win and lose gracefully), and self-discipline. Athletics plays an important part in helping students develop a healthy self-concept as well as a healthy body. Athletic competition adds to our school spirit and school pride.

Villa Duchesne/Oak Hill School’s athletics provides young people with an opportunity to participate in a wide variety of sports. Such participation is a privilege that carries with it responsibilities to the school, to the sport, to the student body, to the community, and to the student-athlete.

The interscholastic athletic program shall be conducted in accordance with the Goals and Criteria of Sacred Heart Schools and existing school policies, rules, and regulations. While the administration takes great pride in winning, it does not condone “winning at any cost” and discourages any and all pressures, which might neglect good sportsmanship and wholesome competition. At all times, the athletic program must be conducted in such a way so as to justify it as an educational activity.

Villa Duchesne/Oak Hill School’s philosophy makes clear the fact that athletics is a competitive experience, and therefore, not all athletes receive the same participation opportunities in game and contests. This philosophy supports that athletics is a learning experience and that all student-athletes, regardless of ability, will be afforded opportunities to develop the intangibles such as skill development, commitment, perseverance, self-discipline, self-efficacy, etc. These skills are essential life skills.