Applewild’s physical education and athletic programs offer yet another way for students to explore and realize their potential. The programs are designed to encourage healthy living, physical fitness, teamwork, sportsmanship, self-confidence, and leadership skills. All of our students participate in these programs regularly each week throughout their time at Applewild.

In their initial years at school, students participate in physical education to learn games, promote fitness, improve physical dexterity and motor skills, and encourage cooperation and good sportsmanship. Sports activities for Lower School students range from ball-handling skills, games, track and field activities, hiking, sledding, archery, soccer, field hockey, basketball and lacrosse.

As they mature, students participate in a range of competitive and non-competitive sports and activities. Interscholastic teams are offered, beginning in 6th Grade and are required for one or two seasons. Interscholastic sports include field hockey for girls and soccer and cross country running (boys and girls) in the fall, boys and girls basketball in the winter, and boys and girls lacrosse in the spring. Coaches are expected to play all members of their team, though not always equally. A no-cut policy means that all students are guaranteed participation on a team.

Upper School students can elect physical education for one season. We offer varied lifelong sports and fitness activities, including climbing on our climbing wall, volleyball, judo, hiking, skiing, orienteering, and more.

In addition to physical education and interscholastic sports, our program includes a thorough health curriculum. Topics include safety, nutrition, and cleanliness in the younger grades and gradually introduce peer relationships and the importance of appropriate choices related to alcohol, drugs and sexual activity to older students.