Curriculum Detail

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Athletics

Hopkins subscribes to the “sound mind, sound body” philosophy of physical education. Athletics are an integral part of the educational program and play a key role in a student’s physical, social and emotional growth. Every student at Hopkins participates in athletics throughout the year, selecting either a team or informal sport each of three seasons (seniors have the option of taking one of the three seasons off).

Hopkins also offers an “Independent Athletic Program” for students wishing to pursue a physical activity not offered during a particular season. An independent program should meet the same requirements as a Hopkins program, and be well-structured and supervised. Applications must be submitted by the deadline dates even if the independent program is a second choice to a team sport. The application deadline dates for the 2017–2018 school year are August 20th, October 20th and January 20th. The application form may be downloaded from the “Forms” section of the Hopkins website. Independent athletic programs may take place only outside of normal school hours and must include time for travel to the activity. Academic schedules will not be changed to accommodate independent athletic programs.
  • Informals - Futsal

    Informal, scrimmage style play with some instruction.
  • Informals - Volleyball

    Students are introduced to the sport of volleyball and participate in organized skill development and games.
  • Intramural Frisbee

    Students participate in organized games of ultimate frisbee.
  • Outdoor Adventure Program

    Grade 11–12, fall.

    The Outdoor Adventure Club encompasses a variety of outdoor activities that connect students to their school, and community support systems. The goal is to engage students through active outdoor adventures that offer opportunities to increase their skills and experience in decision-making, cooperation, clear communication, goals, trust, leadership, team camaraderie and to have fun.
  • Ski Racing

    This activity is for skiers of intermediate ability and above. No racing experience is needed. If you are a
    recreational skier, freestyle skier, or racer, this team offers you the opportunity to improve. Races are on Wednesdays at Mount Southington. Practices are at Hopkins and Mount Southington. There is an optional training trip to Vermont in December. This activity is limited to 28 participants.
  • Interscholastic Competition, Grades 7-8

    Grades 7–8.

    Junior School Athletics meet for one hour Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, during the school day, with interscholastic contests usually on Wednesdays. Please be advised that cuts may be made within Junior School team sports.
  • Interscholastic Competition, Grades 9-12

    Grades 9–12.

    Varsity and JV teams practice after school Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday with contests usually on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Thirds level teams (Grades 9 and 10) practice during the Middle School athletic period (Period G) on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday with contests usually on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
  • Informal Athletics, Grades 7-8

    Grades 7–8.

    We encourage team sport participation to incoming 7th Graders for socialization as well as for physical fitness.
    In the winter and spring seasons an intramural program is offered to 7th and 8th Graders.
  • Informal Athletics, Grades 9-12

    Grades 9–12.

    Middle and Senior School informals meet for one hour a day Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. All informals are coed.
  • Fitness Program

    The fitness class is designed to introduce students to fun and proven techniques for improvement in cardiovascular and overall fitness. Students are introduced to various methodologies for training by heart rate, body weight, time, and repetition utilizing cardio equipment such as treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes, rowing machines, and other popular fitness equipment such as TRX and medicine balls. Students have the opportunity to establish baselines of fitness at the beginning of season with the goal of improving in each baseline area after 12 weeks.
  • Instructional Fencing

    This fencing class is designed for the beginner or intermediate fencer. Equipment is provided.
  • Yoga

    This class is an introduction to the ancient Indian techniques of asana (poses) and pranayama (breath work) that promote strength, flexibility, and mental focus.
  • Intramural Basketball League (IMBL)

    This is an organized “league” consisting of co-ed basketball teams that compete throughout the season, culminating in a championship game.
  • Weight Training

    The weight training class is designed to introduce students to safe and effective techniques for weight training. Students are introduced to different methodologies for developing strength, speed, flexibility, and quickness. Students have the opportunity to establish baseline strength and endurance scores at the beginning of each season, with the goal of improving in each baseline area after 12 weeks.
  • Informals - Squash

    Grade 8, fall; Grades 7–8, spring.

    Non-team squash with some instruction.
  • Informals - Tennis

    Grades 7–8, spring.

    Informal, round-robin tennis, with some instruction. Participants supply racquets.

Our Faculty

  • Photo of Rocco DeMaio
    Rocco DeMaio
    Director of Athletics
    (203) 397-1001 x518
    Trinity College - B.A.
  • Photo of Kenneth Ackerman
    Kenneth Ackerman
    Athletics
    203.397.1001 x517
  • Photo of Christina Balsamo
    Christina Balsamo
    Assistant Athletic Trainer, Assistant Director of Athletics
    203.397.1001 x513
    Endicott College - B.S.
    Southern New Hampshire University - M.S.
  • Photo of Dante Brito, Jr.
    Dante Brito, Jr.
    Pathfinder Dean of Students / Athletic Department Associate / English
    203-397-1001 x647
    Stonehill College - B.A.
    Western Kentucky University - M.A.
  • Photo of Matt Ferreira
    Matt Ferreira
    Director of Medical Services
    203.397.1001 x514
  • Photo of Jillian Gleason
    Jillian Gleason
    Assistant Athletic Trainer, Athletic Communications Coordinator
    203.397.1001 x515
    Quinnipiac University - B.S.
    American Public University - M.S.
  • Photo of Michael McManus
    Michael McManus
    Director of Racquets
    203.397.1001
  • Photo of Jason Nevis
    Jason Nevis
    Director of Aquatics
    203.397.1001 x524
    California State University Long Beach - BA
    Azuza Pacific University - MS
    Loyola Marymount University - Certificate/Credential
  • Photo of Kristen Wich
    Kristen Wich
    Assistant Director of Athletics, Coordinator of Auxiliary Programs
    203.397.1001 x383
    University of Connecticut - B.A.
    • Voted #1
      Best Day School
      in CT, 2024

Hopkins is a private middle school and high school for grades 7-12. Located on a campus overlooking New Haven, CT, the School takes pride in its intellectually curious students as well as its dedicated faculty and staff.