2021-2022 Sports Information

This letter provides you with important information about the Southwest Middle School athletics program and student-athlete eligibility for the fall 2021 semester. Please read carefully. 

We realize that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused academic, social, emotional, and other hardships for our students and families. We also understand the importance of middle school sports and how participation in athletics contributes to students' overall well-being. 

Therefore, in support of our student-athletes, eligibility requirements are being waived for the fall semester. Students wishing to play fall sports will be allowed to try out. Please note per the N.C. Department of Public Instruction that sixth-grade students cannot play football. 

The eligibility rules for middle school sports will be reinstated for the spring 2022 semester (when we return to school from the winter break). For the spring semester, we will follow the academic and attendance requirements for student-athletes based on the fall 2021 semester: a student cannot fail more than one class and must have a minimum attendance rate of 85 percent. 

Rising 6th Graders can play all sports except football. Student-athletes MUST have a current physical on file to try out (Physical Form). Student-athletes must also complete the Gfeller Waller concussion form (G-W Form). Please contact the head coach if you have questions regarding eligibility or specific start times. 

Football- Voluntary conditioning is currently taking place. Start Date: 8/09/2021 Time is TBD; Contact: Head Coach Brayon Rhodes- bkrhodes@gaston.k12.nc.us

Cheer- Tryout Start Date: 8/04/2021 at 9:00  Cheer Camp Dates:  8/02-8/03/2021 from 9:00 am-12:00. Contact: Head Coach Stephanie Crump slcrump@gaston.k12.nc.us 

Golf- Interest Meeting: 8/23/2021 from 3:30-4:00 pm; Contact: Head Coach Scott Yamanashi- sfyamanashi@gaston.k12.nc.us

Softball- Start Date: 8/9/2021 from  5:00-7:00 p.m.; Contact: Head Coach Angela Harrell-Papworth- aharrellpapworth@gaston.k12.nc.us

Please know that the teachers, coaches, support staff, and others here at SWMS are committed to seeing that our students learn, grow, and thrive in both academics and athletics. We care about our students, and we want them to do well in everything they wish to pursue at school. After-school tutoring will be available for all students who need help with assignments/classwork to support academic achievement. 

We are very excited to welcome students back to school on Monday, August 23 for the start of the 2021-2022 academic year. Working together, we are confident that this year will be a time for experiencing success. 

If you have questions or need additional information, you may contact our school office.