Athletic Department Philosophy

Philosophy & Objectives of the TPS Athletic Program

The TPS Athletic Program shall function in accordance with existing TPS policies, rules, and regulations, with the California Interscholastic Federation (C.I.F.), and with the Hillsdale model of classical education. The program shall provide a variety of meaningful experiences to enhance the development of habits and attitudes that will prepare students for adult life in society. All sports in the program shall always be conducted in a way that is an educational activity. While TPS takes pride in winning, it does not condone winning at all costs. TPS discourages any and all pressures that might lead to neglecting good sportsmanship and good health. Support of the athletic teams by the school is intended to generate school pride, success, and unity. It is to be considered an honor and privilege to participate in the TPS Athletic Program and represent our school. Therefore, teamwork and commitment are highly valued concepts in the program.

Objectives

1. The student-athletes will learn vital lessons in character that promote teamwork,
   commitment, self-sacrifice, a strong work ethic, responsibility, self-confidence, and
   self-discipline in order to produce upstanding citizens and maximize the enrichment of
   their futures.
2. The student-athlete will learn that the principle of commitment is more important than
   mere athletics. The student-athlete will learn to remain committed to the team amidst
   challenges.
3. The student-athlete will learn to appreciate the skills and abilities of opponents.
4. The student-athlete will learn an appreciation of playing by the rules. The C.I.F.
   motto is “Pursuing Victory with Honor”. The TPS Athletic Program will reinforce this
   principle.
5. The student-athlete will learn the value of physical fitness and life-long health habits
   that lead to a healthy body and sound mind.
6. The student-athlete will learn to cope with the competitive nature of athletics and
   society in a positive manner.
7. The student-athletes will learn to be good winners as well as gracious losers when
   defeated.
8. The student-athlete will learn to accept challenges in a positive attitude and learn to
   strive to overcome them.
9. The student-athlete will learn to represent themselves, the team, and the school in a
   positive way at all times.

Philosophy of Participation

Participation in the TPS Athletic Program is in addition to academics. Student-athletes voluntarily choose extra responsibilities, in addition to academics, when participating in sports. The student-athletes are required to remain committed to both. The student and parent/guardian will make a well thought out decision when deciding to commit to the extra responsibilities of athletic participation.

Quitting is an unacceptable habit and is strongly discouraged. On occasion, however, an athlete may need to cease participation for a good reason. If this is the case, consultation of the parents/guardians, coach, and athletic director will be in order.

All student-athletes in the program are required to participate in fundraising. Participating in fundraising is intended to generate funds, as well as team camaraderie.

Middle School

Participation at the middle school level is an introduction to the philosophies and objectives of the TPS Athletic Program. Winning within the rules and guidelines of the program is an objective at this level. The intensity in middle school athletic participation is less than the high school varsity level. Playing time is guaranteed to all eligible team members during each contest.

Varsity

Varsity level athletic teams are the focal point of the TPS Athletic Program. To be a part of a varsity team is an honor in itself that must be earned. Commitment is more intensely valued at this level. Winning within the rules and guidelines of the program is an objective at this level. There is no guarantee of playing time.