• Athletic Philosophy

    The athletic program at Sherrard High School is part of the educational process based on policies set forth by the Board of Education, the conference, the Illinois High School Association (IHSA), and the Illinois Elementary School Association.

    Our athletic program is guided by the philosophy that student activities are an important part of the total educational program. A successful sports program at Sherrard District #200 generates a sense of school pride for the participants, student body, faculty, and community. Our sports programs strive to teach “Life Skills” as well as individual skills. The objective goes beyond just the learning of skills for a particular sport.

    Students who participate in the activity program will hopefully join a competitive spirit, self-control, camaraderie with teammates, and develop a sense of personal self-worth. Character traits such as leadership skills, loyalty, and self-discipline are gained through participation. Most of all, the student should grow, learn, and enjoy the experience. School activities must, however, never overshadow the main purpose of an education in Sherrard Schools.

    A “win at all costs” attitude is detrimental to the educational process. If our athletes are motivated to work hard on and off the field and if we provide the proper leadership and sound guidance, they will graduate “winners” in every sense of the word, and our athletic program will be a success.

    Participation in athletics is a privilege that includes responsibilities to the school, team, community, and the athletes themselves. In play and in conduct, student athletes represent all of these groups. To these ends, and in addition to following the Sherrard High School District #200 Athletic Policies and Procedures, coaches and players are expected to exhibit and to model five basic traits:

    1. Exemplary moral character on and off the field.

    2. Enthusiasm for self, team, sport, other programs, and the school.

    3. Confidence in self, team, and coaching staff.

    4. Commitment to academics, athletics, and the school community.

    5. Good sportsmanship, which includes fair play and courteous treatment of
    teammates, opponents, and officials, while representing the school and
    community in a respectful manner.