The Purpose of Athletics at PCHS

The athletics program at Providence Christian High School must be geared to the educational philosophy of the school. The purpose of education, according to the Scriptures, is that the chief part of knowledge is the fear of the Lord, and the aim of education is the glory of God. The full and fruitful use of all of our capacities is our duty toward God. The strengthening of the body is an important part of caring for the temple of the Holy Spirit. In this light we see sports in general as beneficial to the Christian life and conduct. In its proper context, athletics is a learning center for the maturation process. Along with health fitness and motor proficiency, sports teach citizenship, respect for authority, self-discipline, leadership skills, a good work ethic, the pursuit of excellence and how to deal with success and failure.

Athletics provide an excellent opportunity for the individuals involved to practice Christian conduct. This should be taught to them by their Christian coaches and parents. Competition in every aspect of life is a powerful and good force to bring out the best, individually and also in group activity. A competitive, interscholastic program affords splendid opportunity for Christian witness by our coaches and our teams.

Competitive athletics contributes to maturity. Athletes must discipline themselves. They must train. They must work under a given set of rules laid down by the administration and the coach. They will learn how to win humbly and lose graciously. Athletics can satisfy the individual’s need to be recognized, to accomplish and to excel.

We will develop skill, speed, strength, endurance, and health as well as win games and trophies. We believe athletics can develop intellectual abilities through the knowledge involved in the strategy and the counter-strategy of team games, and can coordinate these mental skills into immediate neuromuscular action.

At the high school level, an interscholastic athletic program provides opportunities for students to participate at a high level of play. The most qualified student-athletes are selected in order to field highly competitive sports teams. Student-athletes are required to demonstrate a willingness to sacrifice and manage their time, give an intense effort, and to place the team above their own self-interest.