What athletic programs does Blake offer?
Fall
Cross Country (B&G)*
Football (B)
Soccer (B&G)
Swimming & Diving (G)*
Tennis (G)
Volleyball (G)
Winter
Alpine Skiing (B&G)*
Basketball (B&G)
Fencing (B&G)*
Hockey (B&G)
Nordic Skiing (B&G)*
Swimming & Diving (B)*
Spring
Baseball (B)
Golf (B&G)*
Lacrosse (B&G)
Softball (G)
Tennis (B)
Track & Field (B&G)
What are the MSHSL official sport start dates for 2012-2013?
August 13th: Cross Country, Football, Soccer, Tennis, Swimming & Diving, Volleyball
October 29th: Girls’ Hockey
November 12th: Alpine Skiing, Nordic Skiing, Boys’ Hockey, Girls’ Basketball
November 19th: Boys’ Basketball
November 26th: Boys’ Swimming & Diving
March 11th: Softball, Track & Field
March 18th: Baseball, Golf
March 25th: Lacrosse, Tennis
**Middle School specific teams will begin fall practice on August 30, 2012. Middle School athletes who choose to participate on fall combined teams may join their team on August 13th or wait until school starts. Middle School winter sports will begin on November 12, 2012. Middle School spring sports will begin on April 1, 2013.
When are captain’s practices?
Captain’s practices are arranged by captains and may be held no earlier that one week prior to the official MSHSL season start date. These practices are optional and in compliance with MSHSL rules, no equipment can be issued for captain’s practices.
What forms does my athlete need to participate?
There are three major athletic forms: MSHSL Eligibility (yearly), Health Questionnaire (yearly) and Physical Form (every three years). We recommend that students complete a physical exam in 7th and 10th grade. These athletic forms can be found here.
What is the time commitment of an athletic team?
Middle School athletic teams typically practice each day after school from 3:30-5:00pm. Each Middle School team will compete in an average of 8-12 contests per season. Upper School athletic teams typically practice between the hours of 3:30-6pm. Practice time varies by sport and practice location. Upper School teams may require practice on Saturdays as well as over breaks and non-school days.
Can Middle School Students be on an athletic team and in a drama production?
Participating on a Middle School athletic team may preclude a student from a leading or acting role in a drama production in the same season. Students who are interested in participating in both activities are encouraged to participate in athletics and drama in opposite seasons. In some cases, students on athletic teams may be able to participate in a production as a crew member.
Can Middle School athletes try out for a varsity team?
Yes, Middle School students may petition to try out and participate on a varsity team. Students wishing to try out must submit a petition form to the athletic office prior to the official start date of the season. Students who try out must be at a level of play that is consistent with varsity competition. Students who do not make varsity, would be expected to play at the Middle School level.
Does Blake provide transportation for athletics?
Yes, the athletic department will provide transportation to and from athletic contests within the metropolitan area, including section and state competition. Charges may be incurred for special events, out of state trips, coach bus requests and overnight travel. Free shuttle bus service transports students daily between the Upper and Middle School campuses. Post-activity shuttle buses leave from the Middle School at 5:45pm and 6:45pm to return students to the Upper School. A fee-based post-activity shuttle bus is available upon request from the Middle School to Highcroft.
What extra fees may be associated with athletics?
Upper School teams may charge an assessment fee to cover small miscellaneous team costs for items such as food and drinks for events. The athletic department asks that teams limit assessments to no more than $75 per player. Students may also be billed for trips, including out of area busing.
Where is the best place to find athletic information?
The best place to find athletic information is on the Blake Athletic Website. The website houses all of the necessary athletic forms, game and practice schedules, important announcements and coach contact information.
How does a student sign up for an athletic team?
At the Middle School, athletic registration is completed for each season during a specific lunch period. At the Upper School level, students are expected to register online during a designated week of time. Any student who misses the registration period can register in the athletic office or by contacting Sarah Klawiter at 952.988.3800.