The Rodeph Sholom School Middle School Athletics Program is an exceptional component of the physical education curriculum, designed to develop not only skilled athletes but also well-rounded, self-confident, and socially responsible leaders. Our vision of inspiring today’s curious learners to become tomorrow’s purpose-driven leaders is fulfilled not only within the classroom but also beyond, specifically on the playing field. As a member of the New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS), Rodeph Sholom School fully embraces the quest to “develop individual and team potential by promoting high standards of competence, character, civility, and citizenship.”
This commitment has led to a thriving program, with 7th and 8th Grade teams regularly advancing to playoffs and championships in recent years while emphasizing leadership opportunities for students at every level. Our teams compete in the American International Private School League (AIPSL), where our boys’ basketball team most recently won the 2024 championship. 5th and 6th Grades do not participate in league play but compete against local private schools.
A Strong Program Built on a Growth Mindset
Available to all students in the 5th through 8th grades, most Rodeph Sholom School students participate in at least one after-school sport. The focus of teaching at this level is on building athletic skills that are age-appropriate, teaching fundamentals of team play, supporting socio-emotional growth, and enjoying healthy competition. Skill-based lessons taught in the upper elementary Physical Education classes serve to create the foundation for later middle school participation.
The program’s core philosophy remains central to our approach: individual improvement over the course of a season is deserving of satisfaction regardless of the team’s record. Learning to remain modest in victory and magnanimous in defeat directly supports the Rodeph Sholom School’s mission.
“Our student-athletes receive many lessons over the course of the season. The rigors of competition offer invaluable growth opportunities for both the team and the individual.”
Director of Athletics, Brendan Oswald
Our athletes benefit from a dedicated and cohesive coaching staff. Notably, six of our coaches are also teachers at the school, demonstrating their deep commitment to the students’ success both in the classroom and on the field. The level of student engagement is robust. This year alone (2025-2026), 80 Middle School student-athletes are participating in the basketball program.
One parent recently wrote about one of our coaches, “Wanted to send a quick note to tell you what an incredible coach we had… The team improved so much throughout the season, gelled really well, and had a lot of fun (and success!). The girls loved him, and the parents really appreciated his coaching and his way with the girls.”
Alumni Success and Leadership
The program’s success is further validated by our graduates, many of whom continue their athletic careers at the next level. Recent alumni include Jack Bejarano ‘19, currently a sophomore midfielder/forward playing soccer at Robert Morris University (Div I) where he earned NEC Rookie of the Week honors in 2024; Gabe Ravetz ‘13, who played guard for Wesleyan’s basketball team and graduated in 2023 with 1,000+ career points; and Everett Garber ‘20, a freshman pitcher at Bucknell University (Div I) who made seven starts on the mound in his first season on the men’s baseball team.
In addition to athletic achievements, the leadership skills fostered in our program extend well beyond middle school. Twin sisters Halley and Julia Robbins, class of 2016, first made their mark on Rodeph Sholom’s middle school basketball team, which went undefeated during their four years together. They went on to serve as co-captains of Horace Mann’s girls’ varsity basketball team, leading their team to the NYSAIS Class C Championship in 2020. Julia’s leadership was further recognized when she received the prestigious George Eastman Young Leaders Award at Horace Mann, while Halley continued to develop her leadership abilities at Washington University in St. Louis, where she served as President of Women’s Club Basketball. Their achievements demonstrate how the collaborative skills and team-centered values learned in middle school athletics translate into leadership opportunities throughout high school, college, and beyond.
A Developmental Approach to Athletics
Rodeph Sholom School is proud to offer an extensive range of sports, providing avenues for every student to discover and pursue their athletic passions. Programs offered include Volleyball, Soccer, Cross Country, Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Track and Field, and Tennis. The program is structured to meet developmental needs across grade levels:
For 5th and 6th Grade teams, the focus stresses teamwork, participation, and fundamental skill development as a foundation for future play. 7th and 8th Grade teams are significantly more competitive and physically rigorous, but fundamental skills remain the primary goal.
Our 7th and 8th graders also have unique opportunities to develop leadership skills through team captain roles, mentoring younger athletes, and representing the school in interscholastic competitions. These experiences teach accountability, communication, and the importance of modeling positive behavior—skills that extend far beyond the playing field.
“While the goal is to win every game, you know it’s probably not gonna happen, but every game is an opportunity to learn more about yourself, and that’s a guarantee. We have been together 9+ years, and this tight community is just so great to be part of.” ~ current 8th grader
Celebrating Our Athletic Community
The school year is punctuated by annual events that celebrate school spirit and athletic community, like our Annual Pep Rally and Faculty vs. Student Basketball Game.
The Rodeph Sholom School Pep Rally is a joyous annual event, often coinciding with Chanukah, that celebrates our teams and school pride. Students are encouraged to wear their favorite Rodeph Sholom School Athletics gear, and the day features scrimmages for both the older and younger basketball teams, fun activities for audience participation, opportunities to purchase merchandise, and a lively parent-student half-time challenge.
“The Pep Rally is the highlight of the year for school spirit! It’s wonderful to see the entire community come together to cheer for our kids and show them we’re invested in their success, both during the game and beyond.”
~ current parent
Another highly anticipated tradition, the Faculty vs. Student Basketball Game, is a fantastic event where students get to see their teachers in a whole new light. The gym fills with energy as both sides compete with enthusiasm and good humor, creating memories and strengthening the bonds between students and faculty in a way that only friendly competition can.
Whether your child is just discovering their love of sports or is a seasoned athlete, our middle school athletics program provides a supportive environment where they can grow, lead, and thrive. Through teamwork, perseverance, and healthy competition, our student-athletes learn lessons that extend far beyond the court or field—lessons that shape who they become as people.