Inside Athletics

Philosophy of Andover Athletics

The philosophy for the athletic program at Phillips Academy can be stated simply—opportunity and exercise for all. Ted Harrison, in his book Athletics for All, states that the Andover administration in 1858 believed that students would be better equipped to handle the rigors of the Andover curriculum with a dose of daily exercise. That requirement and rationale have remained consistent throughout the years. As expressed in the Academy’s Statement of Purpose, the athletic program is a legitimate and desirable part of the educational mission of the school. The program shares in the charge set by Andover’s 1778 Constitution to prepare youth to understand that “goodness without knowledge is weak and feeble; yet knowledge without goodness is dangerous.” This obligation challenges students in mind, body, and spirit to see beyond self and to go beyond what is familiar. The athletic program shares with the other elements of an Andover education to contribute to the development of the whole child. Transcending this is the hope that the regular and informed pursuit of a physically active life is accepted philosophically and incorporated into the life of every student.

About Andover Athletics

Phillips Academy’s athletic program provides a unique educational setting, offering an array of intramural, instructional, and lifetime exercise options in addition to a stellar interscholastic program. These offerings do not exist apart from the total experience but as an essential part of a holistic approach encompassing the intellectual, emotional, physical, social and spiritual elements of each student.

Andover offers 67 interscholastic teams in 21 different sports. Students can also participate in intramural options each season like soccer, basketball, and ultimate as well as wellness activities like dance and yoga. Upperclassmen may consider three flexible options: Flexible Fitness Options (FFO), Supervised Approved Sports Exemption (SASE), and Independent Exercise Option (IEO) for students to pursue individual academic, artistic, and/or personal interests.

Fans’ Code of Conduct

Phillip Academy is committed to encouraging and promoting a safe, positive, and enjoyable experience for all. Fans are encouraged to applaud and promote the efforts of their team. Most importantly, all those in attendance have a right to an environment free from disruptive behavior. Inappropriate behavior, including the use of foul language, engaging in negative verbal attacks, or harassment based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, physical/mental abilities, or any other characteristic protected by law, will not be tolerated.

Please bring to the immediate attention of any Phillips Academy Athletic Department member, faculty, or staff personnel behavior that violates our stated code of conduct. Anyone in violation should expect to be asked to leave the venue immediately for appropriate follow-up.