The Evolution of a Middle School Athlete

So, what potential value does Middle School athletics provide? I believe the answer is the opportunity to build life skills of sportsmanship, teamwork, self-actualization and, most importantly, responsible personal and social behavior that respects self and others.

We have a unique opportunity at Graland. With a robust scope and sequence physical education program, our students learn the foundational skills of sports beginning in kindergarten and progress through Grade 5. Our students have daily opportunities to learn and work on not only pertinent skills, but also the importance of positive sportsmanship and the value working as a team brings. In addition, their exposure to a wide variety of sports lends the opportunity to make an informed decision once they reach Grade 6. Yet again, given our “no cut-everyone plays” policy, every student has opportunities to experience a different sport each year or to build on one specific sport.

As a physical education teacher, it is a privilege to be by students’ sides from the moment they begin their athletics voyage at Graland. For example, in kindergarten, while many students may struggle to run and finish a lap, over the years they eventually realize the value and turn it into a personal challenge to improve their speed. In Grade 1, we teach students “BEEF” (Balance, Elbow, Eyes, Follow-Through) and proper shooting form with six-foot baskets. While at first they may only get the ball halfway to the basket, you can imagine my excitement when they sink their first basket in a competitive Grade 8 basketball game. Additionally, nothing is better than witnessing the evolution of a student who was initially fearful of a volleyball, evolving to make a gritty dig and score a point in a Middle School match. Former students often return for a visit either in or after college and express their gratitude for the confidence and subsequent success they gained through Graland’s sports programs. Each athlete ultimately gained confidence as a learner, both on and off the court/field.

Through each individual’s curiosity, determination, and credence, we observe middle schoolers grow as individuals, friends, teammates, and competitors. But more importantly, through their involvement in sports, they have matured and embraced the thrill and humility of victory, and shared and supported one another through agony and heartfelt defeat. They have faced life challenges and turned downfalls into opportunities, gaining self-confidence, self-esteem, independence, self-respect, and respect for others. Through this expansion, they have discovered their own personal sense of self-worth, all of which will be instrumental in their achievements throughout their lives! These are their victories… their successes… and their self-actualizations!