Mission Statement

 
Mission Statement
Athletics is a major part of the educational curriculum of the Merrillville Community School Corporation and its potential for positive educational experiences must be fully utilized.  The athletic program is centered around the welfare of the students and we will strive to offer the best personnel and facilities available.  The administration focuses on organizing and administering a sound program of athletics, which will make a definite contribution to the student/athlete, the school and the community.   We believe that the mental, physical and emotional growth of a high school student can be greatly enhanced by participating in a well-developed athletic program.  We believe that athletics can be a catalyst in increasing school morale and that it provides a channel for students to take pride in themselves and their school.  We strive to provide the best opportunity for student/athletes to excel in teamwork, sportsmanship, self-discipline and moral character.  We are to provide each participant with experiences that will be positive and will help them to develop their own philosophy toward commitment, responsibility, loyalty, which will guide them in their future endeavors.   
The athletic program should always be in conformity with the general objectives of the school.  The athletic administration should be in line with the general policies of the institution.  At no time should the program place the total educational curriculum secondary in emphasis.  The program should constantly strive for the development of well-rounded individuals, capable of taking their place in modern society.  
Listed below are statements that reflect the philosophy of the Merrillville High School Athletic Program:
  1. Develop a sound athletic program based on skill development in physical education classes and a competitive interscholastic athletic program.
  2. Concentrate on the development of skill and on student participation in contest.
  3. Develop athletes who have high moral and ethical values, standards and behaviors.
  4. Develop athletes who demonstrate good sportsmanship.  We believe that the basic guidelines of good sportsmanship consist of the following:
    • Show respect for opponents at all times
    • Show respect for officials and their decisions
    • Know, understand and follow the rules of the contest
    • Maintain self-control at all times
    • Recognize and appreciate skill performance regardless of affiliation.
  5. Promote good sportsmanship by all spectators as defined above.  We believe that being a spectator is a “privilege” not a “right.”  It is a privilege to watch an educational process where teams demonstrate what they have learned in the athletic classroom.  Spectators will be held accountable for good sportsmanship. 
  6. Develop a competitive winning attitude.
  7. Encourage individual commitment to personal and team goals.
  8. Promote pride in the school and the athletic program.
  9. Emphasize the importance of academic achievement.
  10. Encourage students to participate in a variety of sports.
  11. Encourage parent and community participation in the total sports program.
  12. Select coaches in a manner to ensure acquiring the best-qualified person to work with our athletes. 
  13. Maintain an organized and continuing staff development program for coaches.
  14. Develop and maintain quality facilities and equipment.
  15. Develop a quality sports medicine program and provide appropriate training room facilities.
  16. Discuss with our athletes the importance of a lifetime positive attitude toward physical fitness.
  17. Develop qualities of leadership among the participants in the athletic program.