Baldwin strives to include as many students as possible in athletics and to keep athletic opportunities the same each year; however, it may be necessary to reevaluate athletic teams and modify them in consideration of student interest, available coaches, available competition, and budgetary allocations. In addition, some teams may cap participation based on limited facilities, staffing or the nature of the sport. With these factors in mind, we offer the following athletic opportunities:
UPPER SCHOOL
Fall:V/JV Cross Country, V/JV Field Hockey, V/JV Soccer, V/JV Tennis, V/JV Volleyball
Winter:V/JV Basketball, V Dance, V Diving, V Indoor Track, V/JV Squash, V Swimming
Spring:V/JV/Nov Crew, V Golf, V/JV Lacrosse, V/JV Softball, V Track & Field
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Fall:Cross Country, Field Hockey, Soccer, Tennis, Volleyball
Fall: Basketball, Dance, Squash, Swimming
Spring:Lacrosse, Softball
For each season there are opportunities for US students to serve on a US team as managers, statisticians and student athletic trainers.
MEMBERSHIP ON TEAMS
Due to limited space, we will be forced to cut squads on some Middle and Upper School teams to a specific size when numbers exceed that which would make for an optimal experience for all the players involved. Every attempt will be made to allow for the maximum participation at both levels.
• The head coach will make cuts after conferring with her/his staff.
• Every effort will be made to notify an individual being cut in person. An explanation of ways to improve will be provided.
• Concerns about these decisions should be made by the player in question. The player should set up an appointment at a mutually convenient time to meet with the head coach.
If possible a player who is cut from a team will be allowed the opportunity to try out another team if there is adequate space and staffing. It is possible that some players will be moved back to the Physical Education program for further development.
PRACTICE EXPECTATIONS
Please be reminded that all athletes in the middle and upper schools are expected to attend all practices and games. The commitment of Baldwin athletes is to the season. Hence, there is the possibility of weekend and holiday practices.
Please refer to the student handbooks for the full list of expectations for Baldwin Athletes.
MEMBERSHIP OF MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS ON UPPER SCHOOL TEAMS
It is legal within the InterAc League to have middle school students compete at the Upper School level. Membership of a Middle School student on an Upper School team is by invitation only. A coach who believes that a MS student will be able to contribute whether at the JV or varsity level should first discuss the idea with the Director of Athletics. All decisions will include the parents, student, and middle school coaches, Director of the Middle School and the Director of Athletics. Taken into consideration will be the MS student’s skill level, potential to compete against stronger players, academic standing, and social maturity.