Academy students are introduced to athletics and the spirit of healthy competition at a young age through physical education class in the Early and Lower Schools. They go on to compete in Grades 1-5 through an intramural sports program, and in Grades 6-8 (and in some cses as eary as Grade 5) in interscholastic athletics. Participation on at least one team a year is a requirement for Middle School students. Teams compete with other independent schools in soccer, tennis, cross country, basketball and lacrosse fo boys, and volleyball, cross country, basketball, tennis and soccer for girls.
Demonstrating leadership and sportsmanship is paramount to any strong sports program. These qualities are recognized beginning in Lower School, when a student may receive a participation award or individual trophies during an intramural awards assembly. This emphasis continues in Middle School athletic awards assemblies, culminating when a boy and girl "Athlete of the Season" are chosen for special recognition during the fall and spring.
The long-term objective of the Middle School sports program is to help students develop physically, build character, hone leadership skills, experience being part of a team, and form a positive self-image. The emphasis is on producing young people who enjoy sports, strive for excellence, dare to take risks in order to learn, and grow with both praise and constructive criticism. Emphasis is placed not on winning, but on participation and striving to win. It is the pursuit of victory and the ensuing drama that yields the joys of any sport.
"Our first Spirit Night was a big success. Even one of the officials said afterwards that it was the best middle school athletic event he had ever attended." -Athletic Director
To request an appointment or for further information, please fill out our Online Admissions Inquiry form or contact our Admissions Director, Molly McDermott at (313) 886-1221 ext. 146 or mmcdermott@gpacademy.org.
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