The First Thing First

Role of Athletics in Adventist Schools

Creating a Dynamic Athletic Program

When I first started as a PE teacher, I ran an intramural program for kindergarten through 8th grade, helped coach a gymnastics team (Grades 3rd – 8th), taught kindergarten to 4th grade PE, and coached the girls' basketball team (Grades 6th – 8th). This "baptism" of organizing and running so many different athletic programs helped me realize the importance of several key components of a dynamic program.

• Communication: This is key to creating a dynamic athletic program. Communication should be clear and to the point. Information needs to be up-to-date and readily available.
• Sportsmanship: Should be taught and exemplified by coaches and staff. Expectations of sportsmanship should be posted in athletic areas, in programs, and on the athletic website.
• Relationship Building: To have a successful athletic program, leaders should build relationships with students, coaches, parents, athletic directors, administrators, officials, the community, and opposing teams.
• Financial Management: Those in charge should be able to manage budgets and allocate money properly. Fundraising should be done to promote the athletic program as well as to support the community. Coaches should be paid for their services.
• Strong Leadership: It is imperative to have a strong leader who can guide the athletic program as directed by the school and board. This person should work well with all parties involved and have a thorough knowledge of the sports and activities offered.
• Physical Education: This should be planned to allow students to exercise regularly, learn about the positive effects of daily exercise, and promote a lifetime of physical activity.
• Gymnastics: This is a great team sport that should only be performed if a qualified professional is available to run the program. All safety measures should be adhered to, as found in the NAD and USA gymnastics guidelines.
• Intramurals: This is a great way to bring students together in the school. It must be well organized and run to the highest professional level. Students, staff, and parents should know that every effort has been made to create a positive experience for those participating or watching. Intramurals are great for everyone, regardless of their skill level.
• Interscholastic Sports: Interscholastics should only be run by a qualified individual. Every effort should be made to make sure that interscholastic sports are not detrimental to the intramural program, students' time in class, and the overall school program. With an interscholastic sports program, a yearly evaluation of the program and its mission should be completed. Care must be taken to ensure that the mission and goals of the interscholastic sports program are being maintained and that they enhance the overall school program. Interscholastic sports are not for everyone, but they doprovide an opportunity for those who want to excel in athletics.

While much more could be written about athletics in Adventist schools, I am hopeful this article will provide an understanding of what it takes to run a positive and dynamic athletic program.

The right coach makes all the difference. They set the tone for the players and parents, who are the most vocal and loyal fans. A coach must preach and demonstrate respect for each other (teammates), the coaches (authority), their opponents, and the referees. Respect has to be demonstrated consistently so that the players will buy in. How the coach acts is important because I have seen, on more than one occasion, the players and fans take on the attitude and demeanor of the coach. This begins with our Christian view of the value of and how we should treat every individual.

Coaches must hold players to high sportsmanship standards as laid out in the sports handbook. If this is done consistently and with the care and well-being of all those that the student may come into contact with, it can become more than a set of rules and truly a culture that is a bedrock of the sports program. Good sportsmanship can develop a mentally stronger player since they do not simply react to the current situation and do not base their actions on the moment or the fragility of ego. It can also help players weather the storms of tough losses and handle wins with grace and compassion.

Fans and parents can be one of the most challenging groups involving sportsmanship. The athletic director can lay a lot of groundwork for this with a well-thought-out handbook, a clear and thorough parent meeting, and a visible presence at most or all contests. Parents should read the handbook so that they can be advocates in the stands. They can set the tone, which can be a tall task when their child could be treated unfairly on the court or field. The athletic director should be consistent with all fans regarding the promotion of good sportsmanship and, if needed, the consequences of any deviation from the sportsmanship mission of the program. Using posters, signage, and reminders at the beginning of contests are ways to promote and reinforce good sportsmanship.

As previously stated, good sportsmanship is vital to the success of an athletic program. If done properly, a program can be a beacon to the community. If done incorrectly, it can set a bad example that could take years to reverse.

Pitfall

Running Without Purpose

We live in a competitive world. From birth, our bodies compete to survive against diseases. Staying focused and consistent in the face of competition is a real challenge. However, competition should be viewed as a tool to teach valuable life lessons rather than the ultimate goal. Emphasizing a “win-at-all-costs” mentality can cause us to lose sight of our true mission. Athletic programs should serve as a ministry to share the gospel and demonstrate God’s love while fostering connections with youth, parents, and the broader community. Focus on building character and resilience, rather than chasing victory alone.

Pitfall

Comparing Instead of Learning

It’s easy to compare apples to apples. But what happens when you compare a school of 200 students with no facilities to one with 1,000 students and top-tier equipment? While it may be tempting to compare your school’s athletic program to others, such comparisons can be misleading—especially when resources differ significantly. Visionaries might find inspiration in larger, better-funded programs, but dwelling on those differences is not realistic. Instead, focus on practical improvements for your own program. Rather than succumbing to envy, seek inspiration in achievable ways to elevate your program.

Pitfall

Ignoring Burnout

The journey of an athletic director (AD) can feel isolating, and the risk of burnout is real. A student once told me, “The top is a lonely place.” While it may sometimes feel true, it’s not an absolute rule. I remember standing at the summit of Mt. Rainier one year, sharing the moment with dozens of others—some had climbed with guides, others on their own, but we all celebrated the same success. The same goes for athletic programs. You are not alone; many share your goals and face the same challenges. Engage with fellow athletic directors, share experiences, and seek support. Collaboration can lead to shared successes and ease the weight of isolation.

Pitfall

Complacency

Avoid the trap of complacency in your athletic program. Just because something works doesn’t mean it can’t be improved. Doing the same thing year after year doesn’t make it ideal—it just makes it repetitive. Take a moment to list five things in your program that have remained unchanged for the past three years. Now, consider how you could improve each one to make it even better. Regularly evaluate your practices and challenge yourself to innovate. Strive for excellence, ensuring your program evolves rather than stagnates. Remember, the top doesn’t have to be lonely; there’s room for many to reach it with you.