 November 2, 2014
Today let's take a look at Swain's mission, specifically:
"The Swain School is a vibrant community which inspires students to achieve academic excellence, develop a strong sense of character, and act responsibly in a changing world. We empower children to build confidence, explore knowledge, and work collaboratively in a diverse and safe environment."
 A key way we achieve these highlighted areas is through our after-school sports program for grades 5 - 8. Beginning with Creative Movement in the earliest years, Swain students then move to a comprehensive lower school Physical Education experience, creatively taught by Carole Henning. Along the way, the younger students participate in SASS (Swain After-School Specials) sports programs like lacrosse, soccer, and flag football; Girls on the Run is a popular after-school program for third-fifth graders every spring.
As middle schoolers, our students then have the opportunity to choose from among several after-school sports teams. Swain operates under a 'no cut' policy: anyone who wants to be on the team and play is given that opportunity.
Our after-school sports program is guided by  Athletic Director Maggie Werner, (right, with our mascot Paws), who says, "Young people learn a great deal from their participation in interscholastic athletics. Lessons in sportsmanship, teamwork, competition, and how to win and lose gracefully are an integral part of our athletic program."
Whether they choose from archery, cross country, field hockey or soccer in the fall; boys or girls basketball in the winter (or indoor field hockey, a club experience); or Cross Fit or boys or girls lacrosse in the spring, Swain students benefit.
Alum Justin Cohen '94 says of his Swain sports experience: "I loved playing sports at Swain...When I moved to public high school after Swain, I had a lot of confidence going out for athletics and other extra-curricular activities, despite the fact that I was a skinny kid who wore glasses."
 And from an alumni parent perspective: "In addition to the more obvious outcomes of cooperation, teamwork, and learning new sports skills, my child learned valuable lessons in time management, organization, and commitment. Now that she is in college, she realizes that not everyone around her has those life skills and she is even more grateful for her Swain experience."
For the student-athletes currently participating in sports, they are also focused on the fun they have. Who doesn't love a good "mudder"?  (Right, the CrossFit athletes celebrate the end of their season.)
Many thanks to our roster of coaches who make these experiences possible: Matt Beitler, Angel Brown, Megan Franzyshen, Carole Henning, Ed Jennings, Sarah Kleppinger, Chris Ladley, Stacey Pugh, Jason Reed, Kylie Rodriguez, Matt Skekel, and Lisa Young.
You can support our Athletic Program by:
1. Coming out to games, meets and tournaments to
cheer on our Cougars - whether or not your own children are involved.
2. Shop at our big Bake Sale & Raffle this Tuesday, Nov. 4. It will be open from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. in the Ehle Lobby (outside The McCann Center) - there will be a great selection of individual items as well as larger 'take home' items like cakes, breads, and pies. Enter our new Raffle and win a large item or basket - all the proceeds benefit our Athletic program!
Thank you for reading this edition of Swain Stories!
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