CIF State

The first bell. The first practice. The first game. 🔔🏃‍♀️🏆 A new school year brings countless opportunities for students to learn, lead, compete and grow. That’s the power of education-based athletics and activities - and why every season matters. Let’s make this one count! 💪 #PlayPerformCompeteTogether

Some athletes are tested by competition. Others are tested by life. For Damian Thauberger, a dedicated swimmer, the season took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with a neurological disorder that caused uncontrollable seizures, keeping him out of the pool for eight months. What followed was a journey of recovery, resilience, and determination. Through patience and perseverance, Damian worked to rebuild his strength and confidence one step at a time. Now back in the pool as a senior, Damian's return represents more than athletic achievement. It is a testament to courage, commitment, and the ability to keep moving forward in the face of adversity. His story reminds us that success is not always measured by results, but by the strength it takes to overcome challenges and continue pursuing your goals. #playperformcompetetogether #FeatureFriday #HighSchoolSports #StudentAthlete #NFHS

High school sports are an extension of the classroom, which means every high school athlete is a STUDENT first. It’s where they develop character and integrity and learn lessons that will benefit them for the rest of their lives. #ProtectThePurpose protectthepurpose.com/posts/…

It starts with awareness, and it’s reinforced through action. Join the movement to #BenchBadBehavior by enrolling in the Bullying, Hazing and Inappropriate Behaviors course at the NFHS Learning Center. benchbadbehavior.com/posts/2…

Sportsmanship isn’t just a game-day decision. It’s a standard. On National Sportsmanship Day, we’re reminded that athletics are built on respect: ✔ Respect for opponents ✔ Respect for officials ✔ Respect for teammates ✔ Respect for the game Winning matters. But character matters more. We remain committed to protecting the purpose of high school sports — where competition and character grow together.

Playing high school sports teaches: -Being a team player -Working toward a common goal -Being a part of something bigger than yourself When each student-athlete achieves, the whole team WINS! #ProtectThePurpose

In high school sports, and it takes more than you think to build a team. You need student-athletes. A coach who understands. A community to cheer. And an official who cares. Be a part of a winning team. #BecomeAnOfficial today. highschoolofficials.com?shar…

Take the NFHS Course of the Month: Coaching Student Leadership! Coaches can't just give a student the captain’s title and hope they turn into a good leader. This course helps coaches intentionally develop effective leaders: nfhslearn.com/courses/coachi…

As the regular fall sports seasons winds down, contests naturally become more intense. While winning crucial games is important, YOUR BEHAVIOR while winning or losing is what defines you. Read the NFHS Voice: nfhs.org/stories/focus-on-sp… #BenchBadBehavior

The 24-25 NFHS High School Athletic Participation Survey shows an all-time record of 8,266,244 student participants! While news on transfers and club sports sometimes dominates headlines, most student-athletes participate to learn, compete and have fun. nfhs.org/stories/record-part…

Back to school = back to the action! The best way to make the most of your high school experience? Get involved. Sports & activities build friendships, confidence, and healthy habits that last a lifetime. Sign up for a sport or activity in your school today!

National participation in high school sports just hit a record high! 8,260,891 students participated in HS sports during the 2024-25 school year, up nearly 200,000 from the previous year. NFHS Participation Survey: nfhs.org/stories/participati… #PlayPerformCompeteTogether