Our Athletics Program emphasizes the holistic development of girls, nurturing their physical, mental, and emotional well-being within a supportive and inclusive environment. It encourages students to embrace challenges, build resilience, and discover their unique talents while fostering critical life skills like leadership, self-discipline, and teamwork. The program values the balance between academic excellence and athletic pursuits, promoting global-mindedness, ethical behaviour, and respect for diversity.
Whether recreational or competitive, SMS inspires every girl to set ambitious goals, celebrate their progress, and cultivate a lifelong passion for physical activity that connects them to their communities and the wider world.
WHAT SETS US APART
Reducing Injury Risks: Tailored Training for Female Athletes
At SMS, our Athletics Program is designed to support female athletes by reducing injury risks and improving performance. We focus on strengthening key muscles to enhance knee stability and biomechanics. Through tailored training, including neuromuscular control drills and sport-specific movement practice, athletes learn proper techniques for jumping, landing, and changing direction, helping to prevent common injuries like ACL tears.
Our program also emphasizes education and injury prevention, teaching athletes safe movement mechanics for real-game situations. Coaches address factors like motor control and biomechanics while building neck strength, balance, and reaction skills to reduce concussion risks. By incorporating the latest sports science, SMS ensures our athletes can train and compete safely and confidently.
SPORTS OFFERED
SOCCER
BASKETBALL
RUGBY
CROSS COUNTRY
TRACK AND FIELD
SWIMMING
ROWING
VOLLEYBALL
BADMINTON
"Our coaching philosophy is about more than just winning games—it's about empowering girls to embrace challenges, build confidence, and grow as individuals. We aim to create a safe and inclusive environment where every student-athlete feels valued and supported, fostering leadership, teamwork, and resilience. At SMS, success is holistic; it’s not only about achievements on the field but also personal growth, academic excellence, and well-being. Together, we cultivate a balance that allows our girls to thrive in every aspect of their lives."
Dr. Dawn Ranns | Director of Athletics
MEET OUR DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS
Dr. Dawn “Smith” Ranns pursued a degree in Physical Education with a concentration in Athletic Training at Limestone University, where she excelled as a dual scholarship athlete in soccer and lacrosse. A trailblazer for Limestone women’s lacrosse, she became the program’s first—and only—four-time All-American and two-time Academic All-American, earning Hall of Fame honours in 2006.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR ATHLETICS PROGRAM