Modified (Grades 7-8)
This program is available to students in the seventh, eighth and ninth grades between the ages of 12 and 15. A student reaching the age of 16 at any time prior to or during a sport season must play junior varsity or varsity. Sport activities offered are determined by existence of leagues, student interest, and relationship to the high school program and board approval.
At this level, the focus is on learning athletic skills and “game rules,” fundamentals of team play, socio-emotional growth, physiologically appropriate demands on the adolescent body, and healthy competition. At this level, there may be limitations on the number of students on one team.
This program is designed to offer students the opportunity to engage in a more highly organized competitive experience than what is found in intramural or recreation programs, but not as involved as those found on JV or regular varsity teams. An attempt will be made by all coaches to give all team members meaningful contest participation over the course of a season.
Junior Varsity (JV)
This program is intended for those who display the potential of continued development into productive varsity-level performers. Team membership varies according to the structure of each sport, but sophomores and freshman occupy the majority of the roster positions. Juniors may be eligible for the junior varsity program in certain instances. Also, 7th and 8th graders who have satisfied all the selection classification requirements may be included. At this level, there may be limitations as to the number of students on the team.
At this level, increased emphasis is placed upon elements and strategies of team play, physical conditioning, refinement of fundamental skills, and “socio-emotional” development. The JV program works toward achieving a balance between continued team and player development and victory. The outcome of the contest becomes a “consideration” at this level.
An attempt will be made to play all participants, however equal playing time is neither required nor expected. With the goal of becoming a varsity athlete clearly in sight, a high level of dedication and commitment is expected at the junior varsity level.
Varsity
The varsity level of interscholastic sports is the culmination of the high school athletic program. Normally, seniors and juniors make up the majority of the roster; however, gifted sophomores and freshmen may be considered. It is also possible for seventh- and eighth-graders that meet the selection requirements to be included on a varsity roster. At this level, there may be limitations as to the number of students on the team.
Team play, sportsmanship, individual physical ability, motivation, and mental attitude are all very important aspects of competition at this level. While contest participation over the course of the season is desirable, a specified amount of playing time is not guaranteed. It is vital that each team member has a role and knows its importance.
Preparing to win and striving for victory in each contest are worthy goals of a varsity level team. The varsity coach is the leader of his/her sport program and is responsible for communication and system development among each level.