Athletic Department Philosophy
The Convent of the Visitation School’s philosophy statement affirms “that learning is, in the words of our school motto, not for school but for life - non scholae sed vitae.” We believe that interscholastic athletics is an integral part of the total Visitation educational program and reflects our philosophy as much as any other.
Interscholastic sports not only enrich a young person’s educational experience, they create an opportunity to learn skills and values not provided for in the regular curriculum. Participation in athletics will not only improve motor skills and develop physical fitness, but students will also learn self-discipline and build self-confidence. The realization of group ideas, ability to think as an individual and as a member of a group, sportsmanship and fairness, respect for others, and the desire and effort to succeed and excel are just some of the values we emphasize in our program. It is the ultimate aim of our athletic program to teach and develop these skills and values among all of our participants.
Although our first priority is the attainment of the aforementioned educational objectives, winning, involving the spirit of competition, is an immediate objective in all athletic contests. The desire to win can and should be used to stimulate the achievement of the ultimate objectives.
Finally, we believe that participation in interscholastic athletics is a privilege that carries with it responsibilities to the school, to the team, to the student body, to the community, and to the student herself. In her play and in her conduct, she is representing all of these groups. It is only by helping a student to clearly understand our objectives and by carefully directing her in appropriate, well- planned learning situations that she will achieve these goals. This is our challenge and our responsibility.
General Objectives:
To develop an understanding of our athletic philosophy and the value of athletics within our total educational program.
To develop in each athlete, improved motor skills and overall health and physical fitness.
To emphasize each individual’s growth in self-discipline, emotional maturity and self-confidence.
To develop the ability to think as an individual and as a member of a group.
To develop an understanding of the role of the individual in the implementation of team goals.
To develop the desire and commitment to participate, succeed and excel through positive athletic competition.
To provide instruction in the essential rules of the game and the value of conforming to these rules.
To encourage respect for the rights of others and for authority.
To emphasize the principles of fairness in all of our interactions with others.
To promote student leadership and an appreciation of the democratic process.
To provide opportunities for developing a strong sense of school spirit among students, coaches, faculty and parents.
To provide opportunities for positive, enjoyable and safe experiences for all participants. |
