As your student prepares to transition into middle school, we want to share an important update regarding 6th grade athletics and our vision for supporting student development, enjoyment, and long‑term participation in school sports. Over the past several years, we have seen a consistent decline in student participation as athletes move from 6th grade into 7th and 8th grade. After reviewing participation data and listening to coaches, students, and families, we believe a redesigned 6th grade athletic experience will better support our students during this critical transition year.

Purpose of the 6th Grade Athletics Shift

Beginning next school year, 6th grade athletics will be separated from 7th grade programs, creating a true foundational transition year for students. This approach is designed to:

• Introduce and reinforce fundamental athletic skills
• Emphasize skill development, effort, and personal growth
• Allow students to try multiple sports and discover athletic interests
• Build confidence, cardiovascular fitness, strength, teamwork, and sportsmanship
• Prepare students for 7th and 8th grade competitive programs

Students will still have opportunities to compete against other schools when available, while the primary focus remains learning, development, and growth rather than early specialization.

Sports Offered

6th grade athletes may have opportunities to participate in: Football, Cross Country, Softball, Basketball, Wrestling, Baseball, and Track.

Option to Compete With 7th Grade

We recognize that some students may be ready for an advanced competitive experience. Families may opt in for their student to be considered for participation at the 7th grade level in select sports. These students and families will be communicated with this summer, once 6th grade spots in each sport are determined,  to talk through when those students will be evaluated 

• Placement will be determined only after a coach evaluation period
• Decisions will be based on skill readiness, physical maturity, and overall benefit to the student
• Not all requests will result in placement at the 7th grade level
• Fill out the survey linked here or scan the QR Code. 

Important Participation Information

• A current athletic physical is required before participation
• Due to when school physicals are being offered through the hospital all current 5th grade students will need to obtain their physical through their primary care provider over the summer
• Some sports may require specialized equipment purchased by families
• Playing time is not guaranteed at any grade level
• Our overall goal remains participation, growth, and a positive athletic experience

Parent Information Meeting

We invite all interested families to attend a Parent Information Meeting to learn more and ask questions:

📅 Date: Wednesday, May 13th
🕕 Time: 5:30pm
📍 Location: Cleveland Event Center

Summer Pride

All 2027 6th graders who are planning on athletics and have a current physical are invited to participate in summer pride starting June 1st. 8:45am behind the Event Center.

We believe this redesigned 6th grade athletic structure will provide students with a more enjoyable, supportive, and 

developmentally appropriate experience—while setting them up for success in future middle school and high school athletics. Thank you for partnering with us as we build strong foundations for our student‑athletes. Please feel free to contact us with any questions.