Blog

When we think of the world’s most renowned athletes, we often picture individuals competing on the grandest stages: Olympic stadiums, professional arenas, or college fields. But what about the athletes who kick off their journey on a smaller, more intimate platform? What about athletes at CIS?

While CIS may not have the same athletic budgets or sprawling campuses as larger schools such as Rock Bridge, the importance of athletics at our school should not be underestimated. In fact, the role of sports in this close-knit community can be profound and transformative. Here, I’ll explore why athletics matter so much at CIS.

1. Character Development

Athletics at CIS offer students a unique opportunity for character development. Through rigorous training, teamwork, and competition, athletes learn valuable life skills such as discipline, perseverance, and leadership. These qualities extend beyond the field and into every aspect of their lives, shaping them into well-rounded individuals prepared for future challenges and college. Seniors especially are given a unique role in sports to practice leadership skills and to bond with lowerclassmen.

2. Building Strong Bonds

At CIS, athletes often have a chance to play multiple sports, fostering a sense of camaraderie with their teammates. They build deep, enduring friendships that transcend the playing field. These bonds create a supportive network where athletes encourage each other to excel not only athletically, but academically and socially as well. Most students at CIS aren’t known for just “playing basketball” or any one sport, they’re known as “athletic” because most athletes play at least two sports.

3. Inclusivity

CIS prioritizes inclusivity. Athletics become a place where students of varying abilities can participate and contribute. With fewer students trying out for teams, it’s easier for those who might not make the cut at larger schools to find their niche and discover a lifelong passion for a sport. This inclusivity creates meaningful opportunities for exchange students to try out a new sport without the fear of being rejected from the team.

4. Close Mentorship

With smaller class sizes and closely-knit communities, athletes receive more personalized attention from coaches and mentors. Coaches can identify individual strengths and weaknesses, providing targeted guidance for improvement. This level of mentorship fosters personal growth and enhances performance. When I was a sophomore, I told my basketball coach that I wanted to improve on shooting threes. He came in on weekends with me and opened the gym so we could have one on one practice. It really allowed me to grow as a player and improve in details that I wouldn’t be able to get without that opportunity.

5. Leadership Opportunities

At CIS, athletes have the chance to take on leadership roles both on and off the field. They often serve as captains, helping to shape team dynamics, organize events, and inspire their peers. These experiences cultivate leadership skills that serve them well throughout life. 

6. School Spirit

CIS takes pride in our close-knit communities and often has strong school spirit. Athletics play a significant role in bolstering this spirit, uniting students and alumni in their support of school teams. The bonds formed through sports contribute to a sense of belonging and pride in one’s school. Many CIS home games are given fun themes to create a more fun environment and glitter is almost always present in the student section.

7. College Opportunities

Athletics at CIS can open doors to college opportunities. Talented athletes may catch the eye of college recruiters, potentially earning scholarships or admission to prestigious institutions. Even for those not pursuing athletic scholarships, participation in sports can enhance college applications by showcasing teamwork, dedication, and leadership skills. Many CIS alums have gone on to play intramural or club college sports as well. Multiple CIS students have become state champions and continued their sport into college. 

CIS sports are different from most public schools due to the inclusivity and the opportunity to try a new sport while still being competitive with similar schools.

Riley Bach, Class of 2024