Brearley Athletics

Brearley has one of the most extensive athletic programs among independent schools in New York City.

A Thriving Sports Program in Classes V–VIII

Competitive athletics begin in Class V, with seven club sports offered during the year to students in Classes V–VI. Participation in the program gives many girls their first chance to be on a team, where valuable lessons in cooperation and skill development are learned. The Middle School athletics program for students in Classes VII–VIII is also thriving, with high participation and a wide variety of offerings. Brearley's no-cut policy at this level enables girls to explore their athletic interests, since they are guaranteed a spot on the team of their choice regardless of prior experience or ability. The VII/VIII interscholastic program features eight different sports and a junior dance troupe over three seasons, with a recent participation rate of over 70%.

Fourteen Varsity Sports and a Strong Reputation

The School fields teams in fourteen different varsity sports, with a primary goal of providing opportunities to as many girls as possible in Classes IX–XII. In the past several years this has resulted in a 65% participation rate in the Upper School. Brearley has a strong athletic reputation: Brearley teams have brought home league championships in track and lacrosse, as well as New York State championships in cross-country and volleyball.

League Play, Travel and Top-Level Coaching

The School is a founding member of the Athletic Association for Independent Schools (AAIS): thus its league competitors are Chapin, Nightingale-Bamford, Hewitt, Spence, Sacred Heart, Marymount, Friends Seminary, St. Ann's, Packer Collegiate, Collegiate and Trinity. Training and competition often provide opportunities for travel outside of the greater metropolitan area: recently, teams have traveled to Florida for spring training; the track team has qualifed for the Penn Relays; and the cross-country team competes in the Brown (University) Invitational. Brearley athletes have the support of a coaching staff of experienced and dedicated professionals, many of whom have college and international sports backgrounds.

Tammy Zazuri

Director of Athletics and Physical Education