Malvern Athletics
	Malvern Preparatory School is a member of the Inter-Academic (Inter-Ac) League, which embraces the philosophy that competitive athletic programs balance the excellent academic tradition of member schools.  Malvern’s program recognizes the importance of physical conditioning and athletic competition to enhance the school experience. Malvern athletics seeks to fulfill the school’s philosophy of creating a caring environment where young men learn the rewards of hard work, discipline, team commitment and sportsmanship.

	Goals
	Varsity Level: The objective at the Varsity level is to produce as competitive a program as possible with the primary goal to seek a league championship in order for student/athletes to see the fruits of their hard work and dedication result in a successful program. Sub-Varsity Level: Junior Varsity teams are considered a developmental team for the Varsity and skill level is a determining factor in game participation.  Players who play less than half the game at varsity level are eligible to participate on Junior Varsity. Ninth Grade Teams: Ninth grade teams exist in football, soccer, basketball and baseball.  Emphasis is placed on participation, developing fundamentals, a spirit of teamwork and sportsmanship.  Ninth grade athletes may move to junior varsity or varsity teams if their talent level is determined to be such that they can make a contribution to those teams.  All movements of ninth grade athletes to junior varsity or varsity status will only take place with the approval of the Head Varsity Coach and the Athletic Director. Middle School: At the Middle School level the emphasis is on learning to play the sport through participation.  Each team member should, if possible, receive a fair consideration of playing time unless there is an increased risk of physical injury or emotional harm.

	Athletic Participation Policy
	At the Varsity and Junior Varsity level, the coaching staff will determine the selection process based upon criteria established by the Head Coach.  The number of boys on each team can be limited by the nature of the sport, practice time, and/or facilities.  Students not selected for the team will be given an opportunity to participate in other programs.  When it is necessary to limit the size of a team, the Athletic Director, upon receiving the names of athletes unable to participate, will notify the appropriate guidance counselors to make them aware of potential concerns.