Philosophy

The Germantown Academy Department of Athletics, in concert with the school's mission, will distinguish itself locally and regionally by offering outstanding programs that are committed to the following ideals: 

• Enabling each participant to play at his or her ability level as circumstances allow (quality and quantity of facilities, sufficient number of coaches and student interest); 
• Being a source of fun and pride for students, faculty, parents, and alumni; 
  
• Keeping academic achievement as a first priority; 
  
• Encouraging participation in a variety of athletic activities; 
  
• Promoting good sportsmanship and respect for teammates, coaches, the officials, and competitors;
  
• Educating families of interested athletes as to the athletic opportunities available, both on campus and off campus; 
  
• Promoting fitness and teamwork; 
  
• Enjoying the challenges of competition and appreciating the lessons for life that sports provide.
  

In order to fulfill those purposes, we also commit ourselves to:

• Developing, attracting and retaining the finest coaching staff that is available to work within the guidelines of the GA Department of Athletics structure, as well as follow the InterAc League rules (with an emphasis on maintaining the teacher/coach model as the ideal); 
  
• Developing and attracting the most talented student-athletes in the region; 
  
• Providing instruction that enables each participant to develop his or her athletic potential;  
  
• Scheduling high level competition in all sports; 
  
• Competing successfully in all sports; 
  
• Assisting its talented student-athletes in making their athletic talents an important aspect of the college guidance process;
  
• Communicating athletic opportunities and publicizing athletic success to various constituents using different mediums; 
  
• Being a source of positive public relations for the school and its student-athletes;
  
• Exploring all opportunities for expanded facility space to meet the needs of students and athletic department staff.
  

Department of Athletics Philosophy Updated March 2012