Elementary Athletics

The SBEC elementary intramural sports program was developed with the hope of allowing all children, regardless of skill level, an opportunity to succeed in athletics.  For a nominal fee, children who attend SBEC and/or Broadway Baptist church may register to play in one (or all) of the sports offered in our program.  The sports included in this program are:  soccer for JrK-4th grade (the fall sport), basketball for 1st-4th grade (the winter sport) and t-ball/coach-pitch for JrK-4th grade (the spring sport).  The fees cover the cost of jerseys, trophies, pictures, referees and equipment. 

These games are a substitute for neighborhood games of old, when children could go to an empty lot and play games with their friends.  It was a chance for kids to enjoy the fresh air and to have fun in a non-competitive environment.  Emphasis is placed on good sportsmanship, both from the parents and the players.  Respect is to be displayed at all times to all players, referees, and coaches.  Positive reinforcement for all players is expected.  Negative criticism of others is not allowed.

Most organized sports tend to exclude children with little or no skills and are usually very competitive.  In the SBEC intramural sports program, rules for each sport are established to help all children succeed, regardless of skill level.  This program gives kids a chance to get together and play for fun in a non-competitive atmosphere, without the stress and pressure of making mistakes.

The SBEC elementary competitive teams are available to SBEC students only in the 5th and 6th grades.  These teams play other school teams from around the Memphis area in the Parochial Athletic Association (PAA).  Volunteer coaches with a heart for children and a working knowledge of each sport are recruited to help the athletes learn fundamentals about the sport.  The sports that are offered to these students are:  Cheerleading, Cross-Country, Football, and Volleyball in the Fall; Basketball in the Winter; Baseball and Softball in the Spring.

These competitive teams are the most visible representation of SBEC to the Memphis area, so it is very important that the players are taught how to not only compete at the highest level, but also how to do so in a way that shines a positive light on themselves, SBEC and ultimately our Lord Jesus Christ.  At this level, the athletes, coaches, fans and parents are held to a high standard of sportsmanship and respect for others, including the officials.  Fans and participants alike are to be positive and encouraging to all of the children playing, not just their own.

SBEC has some of the best children and parents in the Memphis area.  It is the desire of the Elementary athletic program to shine a light on our amazing families when these games are played.

Sherri Howard
Elementary Athletic Director