Enduring Value of Athletics

Hebrews 12:1 says…” therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” This scripture was placed on my heart as I started my retirement/2nd career here this past summer and it speaks to the enduring value and difference of athletics at BCS.

Often seen as just an extracurricular activity, athletics here offers something far more profound. We are training bodies and tuning hearts…the value of athletics is embedded in the foundation of a classical education.

Develop Virtue and Character

Our philosophy of sports is that athletics are essential to human nature and the development of virtue and character. Athletics help develop well rounded student-athletes who show humility, selflessness, confidence, and poise. We believe that athletics are not “extra” but rather they stand beside to support and strengthen our core curriculum. At BCS, our mission is to conduct our athletic program in the same way we conduct our academic programming - with excellence and a desire to glorify God in competition.

First and foremost, we’re about character development, rooted in our faith. It’s not just about winning or losing; it’s about how we play the game. Our coaches, who are also mentors in faith, instill the values of discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. Student athletes learn to push themselves beyond perceived limits, to rise after setbacks, and to support teammates through it all. We learn to honor God through our effort, our sportsmanship, and our respect for opponents.

Athletics provide a unique platform for witnessing our faith in action. BCS is known for the way we conduct ourselves – our integrity, and encouragement of others – are a powerful testimony to the love of Christ. When we play with fairness, show grace in victory and defeat, we demonstrate the values that are central to our identity. Our actions can speak volumes and be a light to those around us.

Another benefit to BCS athletics is that it fosters a deep sense of community and belonging. In a smaller school like ours, the bonds that are formed enhance our student’s high school years. These shared experiences create lasting friendships and a powerful sense of unity that strengthen the fabric of our entire school community. When our teams compete, we all feel a part of something bigger than ourselves, cheering each other on, united in school spirit and a shared identity. Just step into the gym on a winter Friday night…it’s electric!

Beyond character and community, athletics also teach valuable life lessons in leadership and responsibility. Whether you’re a captain leading your team or a player fulfilling your role as a substitute, you learn the importance of accountability, commitment, communication, and working towards a common goal. You understand the impact of your actions on the team and the responsibility you have to yourself, teammates, coaches and school.

Invaluable Experience at All Levels

This last point leads me to where I shift from the formal mission & vision to the “real talk of a parent with a counter-perspective” I spent nearly 30 years in a much larger public setting, coached high school and club, and have now seen firsthand what is so beautiful and good about what BCS athletics has to offer. It is remarkable the opportunity this provides…like none other. Those without prior experience can play alongside those with remarkable talent and high-level experience. They get a chance that they would not elsewhere. And at the same time, we can produce scholarship-earning college athletes as well…everyone is valued, all with Christ at the center, the BCS difference…it’s truly INVALUABLE.

Join us for our upcoming preschool story time on Tuesday, Feb. 10th with a winter themed story and craft. Invite a friend to join you!  Click below to RSVP.