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Parker Forward:
The Why
Students benefit mentally, physically, and emotionally from physical education and through participating and competing in sports. Our fundamental responsibility is to help students develop critical skills that help them to thrive in the classroom, in college, and in life. At Parker, students come first.
PRIDE AND REPUTATION
Athletics is one of the most visible aspects of a school community.
It bolsters student spirit and pride, deepens alumni loyalty and engagement, attracts elite athletes and high-caliber coaches, and increases Parker’s brand awareness and reputation.
ADMISSIONS
We believe in healthy minds, healthy bodies. State-of-the-art facilities and robust sports medicine, athletic training, and strength and conditioning programs showcase an investment in students’ all-around health and wellness, which attracts students and families to Parker.
ENHANCED PROGRAMS
High-quality spaces beget high-quality programming. Students, despite their skill level, will experience a breadth and depth of programming that is only possible in high-quality and motivating spaces. A robust Middle School program will help younger student-athletes develop the skills necessary to compete at the junior varsity and varsity levels in Upper School.
RECREATION AND PLAY
Regularly taking part in indoor and outdoor recreational activities improves physical health, helps students improve social skills, regulate emotions, cope with everyday stressors, and encourages them to discover new interests outside of the classroom. Parker boasts a “no-cut” policy that ensures every student, no matter their skill level, can meaningfully participate in a team sport.
STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING
With increased space dedicated to strength and conditioning, Parker will develop student-athletes who are powerful and resilient according
to the demands of their sport. They will be capable of achieving optimal
performance at specific, critical times during the competitive season.
PUBLIC PURPOSE
Parker athletic and physical education facilities have the potential to serve as a recreational outlet for neighboring schools and community-
based organizations. By deepening relationships and promoting health and wellness within the Linda Vista and broader community, Parker lives its public purpose in meaningful and authentic ways.
COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE (C.I.F. COMPETITION)
The caliber of Parker coaches, staff, athletic programming, and training facilities support and attract student-athletes striving to achieve excellence in their desired sport. Elite student-athletes often bring a higher competitive edge to more than one sport, leveraging our teams to succeed in competitive CIF divisions.
CHARACTER EDUCATION
Physical education and athletic programs provide lessons and build skills for practical situations, including fair play, teamwork, and the importance of hard work. Students learn accountability, integrity, sportsmanship, and self-discipline, build self-confidence, and develop the capacity to handle competitive situations.
EQUITY AND ACCESS
Devoting substantial resources to Parker’s athletic facilities—mirroring what has already been completed in the academic and arts spaces—upholds Parker’s commitment to fostering the development of the whole student. Athletic and physical education programs provide opportunities for every Parker student to discover sports and activities they enjoy, develop their physical fitness, and eventually participate on
one of our 24 varsity and 10 junior varsity athletic teams.
