Building the Future of NYA Athletics

"This expansion is an investment in opportunity. It will strengthen our community, attract outstanding student-athletes from Maine and beyond, and provide students with exceptional opportunities to compete, grow, and prepare for success in college and life." -Ben Jackson, Head of School 

Our Athletic Expansion - What Families are Asking:

Why is NYA expanding these programs?

NYA is investing in signature programs that reflect its mission and expand opportunities for students. These initiatives build upon our longstanding excellence in academics while creating distinctive experiences in the arts and athletics. They also help the Academy attract students who will contribute to and thrive within the NYA community.

Students who enroll now will have the opportunity to work with the coaches who will lead these programs into NEPSAC or NESSA competition beginning in Fall 2027.

 

What is changing in NYA Athletics?

Beginning in the 2027–2028 school year, NYA plans to expand athletic opportunities by adding several sports to NEPSAC while also launching a competitive sailing program in partnership with Portland Yacht Club. Together, these initiatives represent an investment in providing students with exceptional opportunities both on and off the field.

 

What is NEPSAC?

The New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) is the primary governing body for interscholastic athletics among independent and college preparatory schools throughout New England. Comprised of more than 160 member schools, NEPSAC provides outstanding competition while emphasizing sportsmanship, character, and educational values. Many of the region's most respected independent schools are members of NEPSAC, giving NYA student-athletes the opportunity to compete against top programs while benefiting from an exceptional college-preparatory education. NEPSAC is committed to the philosophy of encouraging student athletes to play multiple sports.

 

Which sports are expected to join NEPSAC?

NYA has a long history of competing in NEPSAC athletics. Boys Hockey joined NEPSAC in 2005, followed by Girls Hockey in 2008.

Beginning with the 2027–2028 school year, NYA plans to compete in NEPSAC in:

• Girls Field Hockey
• Boys Basketball
• Boys Soccer
• Girls Soccer
• Boys Lacrosse
• Girls Lacrosse

Together, these new opportunities provide balanced opportunities for both girls and boys while expanding the range of competitive experiences available to NYA students.

 

What is the NYA Sailing Program?

Beginning in the 2027–2028 school year, In addition, NYA plans launch a competitive sailing program in partnership with Portland Yacht Club. Student-athletes will train and compete from PYC's facilities using club-provided boats and will be coached by experienced sailing instructors. The team will compete in the New England Schools Sailing Association (NESSA), the governing body for interscholastic sailing in New England. While sailing is not sponsored by NEPSAC, many NESSA member schools also compete in NEPSAC.

 

What are the benefits of NEPSAC?

NEPSAC competition provides student-athletes with the opportunity to compete against many of the strongest independent school programs in New England.

Benefits include:

• High-level competition
• Increased college exposure for student-athletes interested in competing at the next level
• Opportunities to compete alongside outstanding peers
• The ability to attract students who strengthen both our athletic programs and our school community

Unlike MPA competition, NEPSAC also permits postgraduate (PG) students to participate fully, allowing schools to enroll students who wish to complete an additional year of academic and athletic preparation before college.

 

Does NYA offer athletic scholarships?

NYA offers a need-based financial assistance (FA) program to help families afford an NYA education. Grants are awarded based on demonstrated financial need and do not need to be repaid. NYA does not offer athletic scholarships.

 

Will students still have opportunities to participate if they aren't competing at the NEPSAC level?

Absolutely. NYA remains committed to broad participation in athletics. Varsity and sub-varsity teams will continue to provide meaningful opportunities for students of all abilities and experience levels. Our goal is to expand opportunities, not limit them.

 

Will NYA continue to compete in the MPA (Maine Principal’s Association)?

Yes.

NYA currently offers more than 25 varsity athletic opportunities, and many sports will continue to compete in the Maine Principals' Association (MPA), including:

• Cross Country
• Golf
• Indoor and Outdoor Track & Field
• Baseball
• Girls' Basketball
• Tennis
• Volleyball
• Softball
• Swimming

NYA also remains committed to broad participation. Varsity and sub-varsity opportunities will continue to allow students of all experience levels to compete, develop their skills, and enjoy athletics.

 

Why should families consider NYA now instead of waiting until 2027?

Now is an exciting time to join NYA. Students who enroll now will have the opportunity to work with the coaches who will lead these programs into NEPSAC competition beginning in Fall 2027. They will build strong relationships with their coaches and teammates, participate in our strength and conditioning program, and help establish the culture and traditions of these expanding programs.

Just as importantly, students will immediately benefit from NYA's exceptional academic program, close faculty relationships, and dynamic school community while positioning themselves for future opportunities as these signature programs continue to grow.

Does NYA offer boarding?

 

Yes. NYA offers a boarding program for Upper School students and welcomes students from across Maine, the United States, and around the world. Boarding students become fully integrated members of the NYA community while benefiting from challenging academics, outstanding extracurricular opportunities, and life in coastal Maine.

 

Do students have to be recruited to attend NYA?

No. Students do not need to be recruited to become part of any NYA program. Families interested in learning more are encouraged to visit campus, meet students, faculty, and coaches, and determine whether NYA is the right educational fit for their child.

To learn more, please contact the NYA Admission Office at [email protected].

 

What happens to students already enrolled?

Current students are an important part of NYA's future. As these programs are introduced, they will have opportunities to participate, compete, and help shape the culture and traditions of NYA's expanding athletic programs.

 

How does this impact NYA's afterschool activity requirement?

The purpose of NYA's after-school activity program remains unchanged. We believe students benefit from staying active and engaged beyond the classroom while developing new interests, building relationships, and contributing to the school community.

Today, afterschool opportunities extend well beyond traditional athletics and include:

• Robotics
• Drama
• Studio Band
• Classical Music
• Student Mentoring
• Community Service
• Outdoor Leadership
• Game Management Team

These experiences encourage students to pursue their passions while challenging them to step outside their comfort zones and discover new interests.

 

Can prospective students meet the coaches?

Yes. Families are encouraged to schedule a campus visit through the Admission Office. During your visit, we are happy to arrange meetings with coaches, faculty members, and current students whenever possible. Coach biographies and contact information will be available on our website.

 

Will these changes impact academics?

Academics remain at the heart of NYA's mission and will continue to be the foundation of the student experience.

Our Upper School curriculum includes:

• Honors-level coursework
• 18 Advanced Placement courses
• Seven Diplomas with Distinction
• Exceptional faculty mentorship
• Outstanding college counseling

Our signature programs in academics, the arts, and athletics are designed to complement—not replace—this strong academic foundation by creating additional opportunities for students to pursue their interests at the highest level.

 

How do these initiatives support NYA's mission?

For more than 200 years, NYA has been committed to educating the whole student. Our mission has always emphasized excellence in academics while encouraging students to develop their talents in the arts, athletics, leadership, and service.

These signature programs build upon that tradition by expanding opportunities for students to pursue their passions, preparing them for success in college and beyond, and ensuring that North Yarmouth Academy remains a vibrant, distinctive, and sustainable institution for generations to come.

MORE THAN A GREAT SCHOOL - 
AN EXCEPTIONAL PLACE TO GROW

At North Yarmouth Academy, students experience the very best of New England every day. They learn from exceptional teachers in small classes, build lifelong friendships in a welcoming community, and enjoy the charm and safety of coastal Yarmouth, Maine. Just minutes from Portland's vibrant arts, dining, sports, and waterfront district—and only two hours from Boston—NYA combines an exceptional college-preparatory education with extraordinary opportunities in academics, athletics, the arts, and leadership.

EXPLORE WHAT MAKES NYA UNIQUE

Athletics are just one part of the NYA experience. At North Yarmouth Academy, students are encouraged to explore their passions, challenge themselves, and discover new opportunities through exceptional programs in academics, the arts, athletics, leadership, and service. Our signature programs reflect our commitment to educating the whole student and preparing graduates for success in college and beyond.