Over the summer, the Saint Stephen’s athletic program implemented a huge policy change. For the first time ever, “non traditional athletes” (students attending virtual or homeschooling), and who don’t enroll in Saint Stephen’s,  can nowparticipate in Falcon athletics.   

The Non-Traditional Student (NTS) Pilot Program is a project designed for students grades 9-12 enrolled in homeschool or a school not a member of the FHSAA; the goal of the program is to allow these students to play sports at Saint Stephen’s or other participating schools. 

New Athletic Director Cole Hudson was the leading force in implementing the new policy over the summer. Along with the addition of players on the field, Hudson also hopes this will be a way to branch out into the community.  

“We are trying to connect with the community, and essentially to get new families and kids a way to learn about Saint Stephen’s,” Hudson said.  

The Pilot program is already making an impact out on the fields. New players on the football team have boosted the quality and level of play.

“This new policy is great,” junior James Haley, wide receiver on the football team, said. “We always need new players and they’re great additions to the team.”

With this policy in place,Saint Stephen’s is hopes to branch out into the community, opening up the door to students who may not have had an opportunity to experience high school sports in the past.