AHHS PHILOSOPHY OF INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS
The Elmsford Board of Education encourages participation in athletic activity by interested and qualified students. The interscholastic athletic program is a direct outgrowth of the physical education program. We believe that the athletic program functions as a critical part of the total curriculum. Students will participate in a program that reflects the school philosophy of continual growth and achievement, equal opportunity and the educational commitment to the physical and intellectual and moral development of each student. Through competitive athletics we seek to promote character, confidence, and self esteem. The intense social and emotional demands of team play and interscholastic competition provide the areas in education for teaching and demonstrating fundamental values such as commitment, loyalty, hard work, accountability, self discipline and moral integrity.
NYSPHSAA PHILOSOPHY OF INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS
The New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) promotes a comprehensive athletic philosophy across its three levels of interscholastic competition:
Modified, Junior Varsity (JV), and Varsity.
MODIFIED PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY
The modified program prioritizes learning fundamental skills, teamwork, social and emotional growth, and healthy competition for students, primarily in 7th & 8th grade.
Rules are tailored (“modified”) for middle school athletes’ developmental stages to ensure maximum participation in a safe environment.
The modified program aims to maximize participation and avoid “cuts”. However, if safety or logistical concerns aries due to a large number of students trying out, team size may be reduced.
While emphasizing a positive environment, athletes are introduced to the benefits of physical conditioning and encouraged to maintain fitness levels. Practices and athletic contests are generally limited to school days (Monday-Friday & Non-Holidays).
Equal opportunities are generally provided in practices and games to develop skill. However, playing time may be adjusted based on development of safety, attendance, behavior, and effort.
JUNIOR VARSITY (JV)
PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY
The JV level is for athletes showing potential for future varsity performance. Team membership typically includes 9th and 10th graders, and potentially middle schoolers who meet the Athletic Placement Process (APP) requirements.
There’s a greater focus on physical conditioning, refining skills, and understanding game strategies, along continued socio-emotional development.
While player and team development are key, the outcome of contests becomes a greater consideration at this level compared to modified sports.
While player and team development are key, the outcome of contests becomes a greater consideration at this level compared to modified sports. This WILL include practice and/or competitions on weekends and/or during holiday recess.
VARSITY PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY
Varsity represents the highest level of competition, with rosters often dominated by juniors and seniors.
Varsity teams can have limited squad sizes, determined by the need for effective practice, safe play, and the athletes’ acceptance of their roles in pursuit of team goals.
The varsity level focuses on achieving excellence within each sport and includes league, sectional, regional and state-level championship competitions.
With the culmination of the athletic program in sight, a high level of dedication and commitment is expected from varsity athletes. This WILL include practice and/or competitions on weekends and/or during holiday recess.