Athletics

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Athletics Department currently manages and supports 40 seasonal athletic programs available for GRPS scholars in kindergarten through 12th grade. 

Our Vision for Athletics


Grand Rapids Public Schools will create educational opportunities and experiences, through athletics, that will enhance scholar achievement, scholar development, and school culture.

Why Participate in Athletics?

As a district, we believe that the participation in athletic programs is essential for scholars to develop teamwork and self-discipline while building self-confidence - skills that help prepare scholars for the real world. We strive to provide an environment where our scholars are encouraged to learn new skills, dedicated to practicing those skills, and rewarded for their hard work. Athletics allows scholars to build positive relationships with their peers by learning sportsmanship in competition. 

 

Athletic Programs


Athletic programs are available to scholars at all of our schools. To learn more about what athletic programs are offered by grade, please review the elementary, middle, and high school athletic pages by clicking the buttons below. You can also contact your school directly for more information about athletic programming at a specific school or throughout the district.

Elementary Athletics Middle School Athletics High School Athletics

 

District Athletic News & Events


A Day in the Life: Union Boys Soccer

For Union boys soccer players Carlos Meneses Martinez and Erik Soto, soccer is more than a fall sport. It is a year-round commitment that shapes their schedules, friendships, goals, and character.

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A Day in the Life: Ottawa Boys Soccer

John Mkyombwe’s days at Ottawa Hills High School often look like this: AP classes, choir, art, JROTC, yearbook, and, eventually, soccer.

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Fox 17: Southwest MH Sophomore Named To Guatemalan National Team

As top soccer talent competes in the World Cup this week, a 15-year-old from the Grand Rapids area will try to earn the right to represent Guatemala.

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Ottawa Hills Bengals Summer Athletic Opportunities

Summer preparation is in full gear — Ottawa Hills Bengals athletes can take advantage of training opportunities to sharpen their skills and get ready for competition.

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Union Redhawks Summer Athletic Opportunities

Get ready for the season! Union Redhawks athletes can take advantage of summer training opportunities to improve their skills, build strength, and prepare for competition.

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Support Elementary & Middle School Athletics


Through the generous gifts from the Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation donors, Great Sports, Great Kids provides youth sports programming for elementary and middle school scholars across the district. 

Learn more about our Great Sports, Great Kids Program

Contact Us

Athletics
Call (616) 819-2112
Email Athletics@grps.org

Larry Johnson
Grand Rapids Public Schools
Chief of Staff & Executive Director of Public Safety & School Security
Marcus Harris
Ottawa Hills High School
Athletic Director
Justin Walker
Union High School
Athletic Director