Athletics

Athletics (Grades 6-8)

Overview:

The Magnet Athletics Program offers a comprehensive three-year curriculum designed to foster not only physical growth and athletic ability but also important life values like respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, cooperation, and discipline. Taught by a dedicated team of instructors—Mr. Crespi, Mr. Maffai, Mr. Monti, Ms. Pugliese, and Mr. Raimondo—this program emphasizes the development of the whole athlete, prioritizing both physical fitness and personal growth.

In the Athletics Magnet, students engage in a variety of sports and physical activities, building their skills while learning how to work effectively as a team and exhibit good sportsmanship. The program is structured to encourage academic achievement, efficiency in teamwork, and good citizenship while maintaining a strong focus on the health and welfare of each student-athlete. Students are not only expected to perform well in sports but also to demonstrate positive character traits both on and off the field.

Program Highlights:

• Physical Development: Students will participate in a variety of physical activities and sports, improving their athletic skills, endurance, and coordination.

• Character Building: The program instills essential life values, including discipline, responsibility, respect, and cooperation, through structured activities and team-based experiences.

• Teamwork and Sportsmanship: Emphasis is placed on learning the importance of working together as a team, respecting opponents, and exhibiting good sportsmanship.

• Healthy Lifestyle: Students will develop habits that promote lifelong health and wellness, with a focus on fitness, nutrition, and overall well-being.

• Academic and Athletic Balance: We expect our student-athletes to balance both their academic responsibilities and their commitment to athletics, ensuring a well-rounded education.

Grade-Level Breakdown:

Grade 6:
In 6th grade, students are introduced to a variety of team and individual sports, including basketball, soccer, track and field, and fitness training. Students will learn the basics of these sports, focusing on developing foundational athletic skills and understanding the importance of teamwork. Alongside physical activity, they are also introduced to concepts of sportsmanship and positive communication in a sports setting.

Grade 7:
By 7th grade, students will continue to refine their skills in the sports introduced in 6th grade, while also exploring new sports such as volleyball, swimming, and strength training. Students will focus more on team strategies, advanced techniques, and leadership within the sports environment. Emphasis will be placed on cooperation and problem-solving in athletic situations, with students taking on more active roles in team leadership.

Grade 8:
In 8th grade, students will work on mastery of skills in a range of sports, with an increased focus on competitive play. They will also explore advanced fitness concepts, including strength training and flexibility, with an eye toward maintaining long-term health. In addition to their physical growth, students will reflect on their experiences in sports, understanding how to apply the values learned in athletics—such as respect, discipline, and teamwork—to their everyday lives.

Student Expectations:

• Teamwork: Students will learn to communicate effectively and work cohesively with teammates to achieve a common goal.

• Respect & Sportsmanship: Showing respect for coaches, teammates, opponents, and officials is a core expectation of all student-athletes.

• Academic Achievement: Academic success is just as important as athletic success. Students must demonstrate dedication to both their studies and their athletic performance.

• Physical and Mental Well-Being: Students are encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle through proper exercise, nutrition, and mental wellness practices.

Why Choose Magnet Athletics?

The Magnet Athletics Program is perfect for students who are passionate about sports and physical fitness and want to develop both their athletic abilities and life skills. Through this program, students will grow not only in their athletic capabilities but also in their personal development, preparing them for future challenges both in sports and life. Whether they are a beginner or experienced athlete, students will find a welcoming environment where they can thrive, work as a team, and build confidence.