The athletic program is an integral part of the North Yarmouth Academy experience. The philosophy of the program is grounded in the importance of physical education and the opportunities for personal growth, achievement, development of character and teamwork. The program offers an important vehicle for fostering a sense of community within the school and, particularly in the case of interscholastic sports, a link to the outside community.
All NYA students are required to participate in a structured, supervised afternoon school program every trimester, with at least one season (in the Upper School) or two seasons (in the Middle School) devoted to athletics. To help new students meet one another and become acclimated to the school, all new Upper School students must participate in a fall interscholastic sport.
Opportunities in the Performing Arts are offered as an alternative to athletics, because they support the value and intent of the athletic requirements. Performing arts create an experience that fosters teamwork, personal achievement, and a sense of community. Students involved in performing arts get a valuable experience working with a strict deadline in a non-competitive environment. Upper School students may participate in two seasons of afternoon performing arts each year. Middle School students may participate in the winter or spring trimester. Participation in these afternoon alternatives is coordinated through the Athletic Department.