ATHLETICS
Varsity Sports & House Sports
Keio Academy of New York is a member of NYSPHSAA (New York State Public High School Athletic Association) Section I.
We believe that students should have many opportunities to compete, learn new skills and develop individual goals. The Athletic Department is committed to developing the student-athlete through a connection of the mind, body, and spirit. The lessons and experiences on sports teams are an integral part of the Keio curriculum. The expectation is for our coaching staff and student-athletes consistently to carry out the Keio Academy Mission Statement as a part of the team environment and in practice and competition.
Becoming a dedicated member of a School sports team means our student-athletes develop skills such as camaraderie, teamwork, commitment and perseverance, all while balancing a rigorous cultural and academic schedule. The Athletic Department is structured around participation in competitive athletics as a foundation for developing physical health and wellness, leadership, spirit, and the skills necessary for success in life.
‘ Bunbu Souzen ‘
Many schools use the phrase “Bunbu Ryodo” to describe the balance between academics and sports. However, it is not a fitting term to describe Keio’s approach to athletics. In fact, I have yet to find the phrase in the writings of our predecessors, such as Yukichi Fukuzawa, Shinzo Koizumi, and Tadao Ishikawa, who emphasized the importance of athletics for our scholars and spoke highly of their value.
The term “Bunbu Ryodo” refers to two paths one aims for, but it does not directly relate to both, which seem to be two separate wheels connected by an axle. Moreover, too many schools have used this phrase as an excuse.
The phrase “Bunbu Souzen” is written on a piece of colored paper displayed in preparation for the special exhibition “Modern Japan and Keio Sports: Never Forget the Purpose of Physical Education,” which was held in 2017 to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the founding of Keio University's athletic association. Koizumi Sensei presented it to the late Tadao Toda, a member of Keio's kendo club, around the time he won the All Japan Kendo Championships twice.
The phrase “Bunbu Souzen” means to master both academics and athletics to the fullest, and I imagine that as one develops both, they mutually strengthen and overlap, creating a large mountain with a strong foundation. It is a word that fits well with Keio's approach toward athletics.
As president of Keio University, Shinzo Koizumi greatly encouraged the students in the athletic department and watched their development in the integrated education system. He was also a lifelong sports advocate.
I hope that young students at Keio will cherish the spirit of “Bunbu Souzen” as well as the “Three Treasures of Sports”(the experience that practice makes the impossible possible, the spirit of fair play, and friendship) that Mr. Koizumi spoke of when reflecting on his own life as a student at Keio.
Professor Keita Yamauchi
Chairman, Keio Academy of New York
Vice President of Keio University