Junior Varsity/Freshmen Philosophy
Sub varsity athletics are an integral part of the success of the varsity program. Junior Varsity and Freshmen sports allow student athletes to transition from recreation sports to a High School sport that requires six days of practice per week as well as an increased amount of games. Moreover, a working sub varsity program will enable the student athlete to mature in competition with other athletes who are in similar physical and mental conditions. In addition, the sub varsity program is designed to allow for student athletes to grow and mature in their sport through a coaching philosophy that is not focused on winning contests. The primary purpose is to foster the growth of the student athlete in competition.
All of the sports at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School do not have a sub varsity level. Fewer still have a dedicated freshmen level. This is a result of either interest in the sport or the nature of the sport. For example, the Track programs do not have a dedicated freshmen level because there are no specific teams to face. When possible, the freshmen and sophomore student athletes compete in novice meets restricted to only freshmen and sophomores.
Teams that have a sub varsity level are encouraged to create situations that allow for all of the students to have game experience throughout the season. Sub Varsity coaches will determine the playing time for their athletes based on the student athlete's effort in practice as well as performance in contests. Playing time is not an entitlement at any level of Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School Athletics, but rather earned through dedicated practice and performance in contests.
Questions or concerns about the philosophy for sub varsity sports can be directed to the Assistant Principal - Athletics, Ryan Miller, 908-889-8600 x 31004, or email, rmiller@spfk12.org.
