With the introduction of competitive athletics, EF Academy's athletic rosters may not be able to accommodate all students who are interested. This year, we will be offering a single team in each sport competing at the highest level (Varsity). For students who are interested in one of these sports, yet unable to be offered a roster spot due to size limitations, we will provide opportunities for recreational or intramural access to the sport. In some instances, students may also be able to help assist with the coordination of the athletic team throughout the season, allowing them to stay closely connected with the sport and continue to be valuable members of the team. 
 
It is important for our students and families to also understand that being CIF members, we are governed by the same rules as all other high schools in the state of California. Part of these rules include meeting various athletic eligibility requirements, especially regarding transfer students; in some instances, students may have restrictions placed on their ability to compete in games in particular sports for a period of time or even a whole season. We are reviewing CIF documents as they are submitted and will promptly communicate athletic eligibility statuses as they are determined.  As with students who may be cut from team rosters, any ineligible student athletes will still have access to recreational and intramural offerings this year.
 
Early this fall we will assess student interest in additional competitive sports beyond those for which we are launching varsity teams this year. While we are looking specifically at Tennis, Golf, Girls Soccer, Baseball, and Cheer/Dance, demonstrated student interest will inform potential intramural sport club offerings for the Winter and/or Spring seasons this year.
 
Next year, we will certainly expand our CIF sport offerings. Where there is demonstrated student interest, we will add a second competitive level (Junior Varsity) to accommodate a greater number of students within the sport program. Furthermore, we will analyze our sport club offerings from this year to determine if they are ready to field a competitive team as soon as next year. 
 
We are so excited to host our first CIF Girls Volleyball game in Robinson Center against Waverly School on Sept 13 at 7:00pm. I can't wait to sit amongst our EF Academy community, filling our Robinson Gymnasium bleachers, supporting and uplifting our student-athletes as they represent our school in the athletic arena.  With 29 day students and a larger number of local boarders this year, we invite families in the area to join us for home and away games.  The full schedule of fall competitions is linked here. For our families who are far away, we will be collaborating with students and faculty from our new media lab to record and post games so that you can celebrate your student’s hard work on the court or field, even from afar.

Looking forward to a great year ahead!