FCPS will be offering athletics for middle school students—for the first time—in September 2023, pending adoption of FCPS’ Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Advertised Budget. FCPS will offer middle school cross country this fall with outdoor track to follow in spring 2024.

Why Middle School Sports?

Spring and fall athletic activities are being offered to support student well-being at no cost to students. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that physical activity benefits children in many ways including increasing focus in school, improving sleep, reducing stress, and helping teens avoid risky behaviors such as smoking, drinking alcohol, and using drugs.

Who Can Participate?

Any current FCPS middle school student, enrolled in at least five courses, who is in good standing at their school, and is eligible to participate in the middle school after school program.

What Is Required to Participate?

Students and parents will need to complete several steps prior to participating in middle school sports, including:

• A completed  FCPS Middle School Sports Athletic Participation/Parental Consent/Physical Examination Form (PPE). The exam must be completed by a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant. Please note that the form must be dated on or after May 1, 2023 for the 2023-2024 school year.

• Student-athletes in FCPS are required to be covered by medical insurance.  If your student is not covered by another plan, there is a link below to an option.
• Each student-athlete and a parent/guardian will complete a registration process that includes the state-mandated concussion education program and Emergency Care Card information before the student participates in middle school sports.  This process is still in development and will be available prior to the first day of school.

 All forms must be submitted to the Middle School After-School Program Specialist. 

Is FCPS Offering Sports Exams?

Yes! Until June 15, Fairfax County public high schools will offer preparticipation examinations (PPEs) for students interested in middle school sports. The cost is $50 per student. Middle School students who receive free or reduced meals will have access to a free exam. 

View the PPE exam schedule and register your student for a physical exam. 

If you would prefer to have your child’s healthcare provider perform the PPE exam, please make sure they complete the FCPS Middle School Sports Athletic Participation/Parental Consent/Physical Examination Form (PPE) form.

Questions?

Please contact the Student Activities and Athletics office at [email protected].