The Ethel Walker School
MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETICS AND RIDING
Building skills and exploring new ones
Middle school marks a pivotal moment for girls, both athletically and socially, and it is precisely when many begin to disengage from sports, just when they stand to benefit from them most. At Walker’s, athletics are an integral part of the Middle School experience and an extension of the classroom, where girls learn by doing: taking risks, navigating setbacks, overcoming fears, and facing challenges head-on.
Through training and competition, they grow stronger physically and intellectually, step into their first leadership roles, and develop confidence as individuals and teammates. And they never do it alone: every challenge is met with the support of teammates and coaches. At Walker’s, Middle School girls play at the level that best matches their abilities. Some thrive on Thirds teams, while others have the skill and experience to compete at the JV or Varsity level.
Middle School Co-Curricular Offerings
FALL
Thirds Soccer
Riding
Upper School Tryouts (JV/Varsity): Field Hockey, Soccer, Volleyball, Dance, Cross Country
Winter
Thirds Basketball
Riding
Upper School Tryouts (JV/Varsity): Basketball, Squash, Ski, Swimming, Winter Play, Dance
Spring
Thirds Lacrosse
Riding
Upper School Tryouts (JV/Varsity): Lacrosse, Softball, Spring Musical, Tennis, Dance, Golf
What is a Thirds Team?
Many of our Middle School students participate in our Thirds athletic program, open to students in Grades 7–10. Thirds teams offer soccer in the fall, basketball in the winter, and lacrosse in the spring, with an emphasis on building fundamentals, learning the game, and developing confidence through competition.
Teams compete against programs with similar age and ability levels, including peer Junior Independent Schools and select JV teams. Because Thirds games are played during the school week rather than on weekends, the program also offers Middle School students greater flexibility to pursue outside commitments and activities in the evenings and on weekends.
Can Middle Schoolers Participate on Upper School Teams?
Yes! While many students discover a new sport for the first time in Middle School, others have already found a sport they love and are eager to challenge themselves further. When appropriate, Middle School students are eligible and encouraged to try out for junior varsity and varsity teams.
When considering athletes for JV or varsity, coaches look beyond physical readiness alone. They also consider whether a student-athlete has the maturity, commitment, and confidence to manage a higher level of competition and intensity of training. These teams typically involve longer seasons, more frequent and lengthy practices, and weekend competitions, making them a meaningful commitment for Middle School students ready to take the next step.
Meet the Staff
Brett Benzio
Assistant Head of School for Athletics, Co-Curriculars, and Equestrian
Brett Benzio was a four-year basketball starter at Tulane University. She played professional basketball in the Czech Republic and Germany before returning stateside to work with the basketball programs at both Harvard and the University of Vermont. Brett has been a program head at the NEPSAC level at both the New Hampton School (Lakes Region) and Lawrence Academy (ISL). She spent the past seven years working in the boarding school environment.
Learn MoreMiddle School Riding
Students who are riders in Walker’s equestrian program are able to take riding lessons during the school day where their schedule permits. Walker’s Middle School IEA team meets after school at the barn; the team competes at various shows throughout the region.
If my child is a new rider, when will she have lessons?
Students who are signed up for riding and are new to the sport will have their lessons during the academic day based on their schedule.
If my child is an intermediate or advanced rider, when will she have lessons?
Students who are signed up for riding and are an intermediate or advanced rider will have their lessons after school.
If my child is competing in IEA shows, will she need additional practice prior to shows?
All lessons include instruction in the skills needed to compete in IEA shows. These skills will be taught and reviewed during a student’s regular riding lesson time.
