ATHLETICS

BUILDING TEAMWORK, SPORTSMANSHIP, AND

lifelong values

At Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Regional Catholic School, athletics are a vital and integral part of our educational program. Good sportsmanship is a priority as we strive to teach the values of fair play and good competition. Our athletic program encourages team work and commitment as important parts of a student's growth toward maturity. Over 70% percent of our middle school student body participates in our athletics program. Practice sessions and athletic competitions serve to enhance our academic program.

We believe participation in athletics is an important part of the scholastic experience and important lifelong lessons will transcend the playing field. Depending on enrollment numbers, typically students in grades 5th through 8th with good academic standing are eligible to play team sports. The goal of any junior varsity team (grades 5-7) is to build skillls and share playing time with all team members. The goal of any varsity sport (generally made up of 8th graders) is to be as competitive as possible and the playing time is at the discretion of the coach. OLMC School competes within 2 playing divisions: The Belleville Diocesan Conference and the Quad County Athletic Conference.

Annually, the Cheerleading Program participates a Mum fundraiser and all other athletes are involved in a Barbeque fundraiser to benefit the OLMC Athletic Program. All students participating in the sports program must have a physical exam each year and a copy of the report on file. There is a $20 athletic fee assessed for each student who participates in school sports. Eligibility for OLMC athletics is determined according to the Southern Illinois Junior High Sports Athletic Association (SIJHSAA) By-Laws. All sport schedules and coaching staff are coordinated and arranged by our Athletic Director. Please contact us at (618) 942-4484 for more information concerning OLMC Athletics.

BOYS' BASEBALL

The OLMC Baseball Program emphasizes teamwork, respect, sportsmanship, and a winning attitude. Players are given the opportunity to learn and enjoy the game, focusing on the fundamentals of hitting, pitching, and fielding during practices. The coaching staff works to develop both individual and team skills for success. Open to boys in grades 6-8, the program starts with an initial team meeting and summer practices. Partial uniforms are provided, but parents must purchase additional items such as baseball shoes.

GIRLS' SOFTBALL

The OLMC Girls Softball Program centers on strength, hard work, and dedication. In this challenging sport, students develop technique and athleticism through discipline and sacrifice to build a successful team. Players focus on improving their skills and working together to achieve goals. Partial uniforms are supplied, while students must purchase additional items needed for the season. The program begins with an initial team meeting in the summer, followed by routine practices before school starts. This program is an opportunity for students to grow as athletes and individuals.

BOYS' BASKETBALL

OLMC Basketball has a strong tradition of winning. Our goal is not only to teach students to succeed on the court but also to build character and instill the values of hard work, commitment, and teamwork. OLMC players are expected to exemplify dedication, discipline, and a positive attitude as they represent the school both academically and athletically. Students are prepared not only for high school basketball but also for life outside of school, developing character on and off the court. Team uniforms are shared from season to season, and some items must be purchased by parents. Boys in grades 5-8 are welcome.

GIRLS' BASKETBALL

The Girls Basketball Team at OLMC is a unique opportunity for girls to improve fundamental basketball skills such as ball handling, one-on-one moves, passing and shooting. Players will also learn about post play, defensive principles, perimeter play and competitive games. Game preparation consists of a rigorous practice schedule during the week after school. The team is all varsity players, and all interested girls in grades 6-8 are welcome to join the program. Partial uniforms are provided but shoes must be purchased by the students.

GIRLS' CHEERLEADING

The OLMC Cheerleading Program promotes school spirit, and supports and encourages the effort of the school athletes. Cheerleaders help create spirit and excitement at many of the school's basketball games, pep rallies and accompany the school float in the Marion Homecoming and Herrinfesta Italiana Parades. All interested eighth grade girls are eligible for a spot on the OLMC Cheer Squad. Practices are held once a week after school or in the evening. Uniforms are shared year to year in addition to various items that will need to be purchased by the parents.

GIRLS' VOLLEYBALL

At OLMC, the Girls Volleyball Program breeds winners and champions. It has grown in popularity over the past several years and provides an excellent opportunity for students to challenge themselves physically and mentally. As a sport, volleyball teaches the value of hard work, discipline, and dependability in conjunction with basic volleyball skills. Games are divided by grades: “A” Games (7th & 8th graders), “B” Games (7th graders), and “C” Games (5th & 6th graders). Uniforms are partially provided, while families must purchase certain items.

COED CROSS COUNTRY

The Cross Country Running Program is one of the newer sports at OLMC. Cross Country running is one of the athletic disciplines in which students often compete long-distance track and road running. Students in grades 4th-8th will practice twice per week after school in the fall. Students will run races on open-air courses over natural terrain in a wide range of weather conditions and temperatures.

COED TRACK & FIELD

Students in grades six through eight have the opportunity to participate in all track and field events. All training for the track and field program takes place at Herrin High School Track approximately three times per week after school, depending on weather conditions. OLMC School provides uniform tank tops for students, who wear their own black shorts for competitions. Track shoes with spikes are recommended, but not mandatory.

COED BOWLING

The Bowling Program is the newest sport at OLMC. We will not only teach youths the skills necessary to compete in bowling but will also enhance their coordination, promote self-esteem, and introduce them to a lifelong sport that everyone can enjoy.