Knightly News

Members of the Middle School Athletic Council Team

Excitement is building around Middle School athletics, with increased participation and added student recognition. A spirited group of sixth, seventh and eighth graders is creating the buzz and leading the charge.

Engaging, Equipping and Empowering Student Athletes

Middle School Athletic Director Alex Wharton says the Middle School coaching staff selected students from each grade level to serve a one-year term on the newly formed Middle School Athletic Council Team. “The Athletic Council Team provides students a leadership opportunity as they share ideas to improve the Middle School sports experience,” he says. Wharton became the Middle School Athletic Director two years ago with a goal “to engage, equip and empower Middle School students to make a difference and achieve greatness.” Part of that effort includes offering students an opportunity to be involved and guide the program forward. “I want our students to feel empowered to try new things and take on new roles,” says Wharton. 

“I think Middle School has it pretty good.” This was the sentiment at a recent Athletic Council meeting as students shared thoughts on the Middle School sports program. Students were upbeat about their athletic experiences and offered insight into how to continue building upon the positive momentum. Eighth grader Ada Mere competes in varsity cross country and track & field and says she believes athletics is an important part of the Episcopal experience. “I want to make Middle School a fun experience, and I want students that play sports to be recognized,” she says. “Hopefully this will encourage more people to play sports.”

Student Leadership Boosts Participation

Wharton says there’s already evidence that the council is having an impact as there has been an increase in sports participation. “This winter there was a new student on every team,” he says with enthusiasm. In addition, council members have created new ways to celebrate and bring awareness to Middle School sports. Students envisioned an opportunity to recognize athletic excellence at the conclusion of each sports season. As a result, fall and winter sports awards ceremonies were conducted in a Middle School Morning Meeting and a spring ceremony is planned for May. “I believe having an Athletic Council Team showcases the hard work people put into sports,” says Ada. “I also believe it encourages people to try sports and learn more about what their peers do after school.” 

Episcopal provides a range of athletic opportunities for Middle School students. In the fall, students participate in tennis, cross country and swimming. Boys also compete in football/flag football and girls participate in softball. In the winter, boys and girls compete in basketball and soccer. Spring sports include boys and girls track & field and girls volleyball. 

You’re Invited!

Athletic Council Team members are planning a special Middle School spring sports community event to coincide with the Middle School volleyball team’s home contest versus Dunham on Wednesday, April 24 beginning at 4:30 p.m. Students hope the Episcopal community comes out for an evening of fun and school spirit. “I believe this will be an amazing experience, and this will get more students to come watch their peers do what they love,” says Ada. 

The spirited event will feature a Hawaiian theme, with refreshments available in G5. Council members will present a prize to the grade with the most people in attendance.

The Episcopal School of Baton Rouge 2024-2025 application is now available! ​For more information on the application process, to schedule a tour, or learn more about the private school, contact us at [email protected] or 225-755-2685.